Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Riley couldn't breathe.

The air around him was hot and damp, smothering. The humidity clung to his body, sticking on to his skin, making his wounds sting. His chest felt tight, and it burned. Breathe! He needed to breathe! He strained to gasp, but only choked. Coughs raddled his damaged flesh as he struggled. Finally, a pained breath was sucked through his cracked dry lips. It hurt. Oh Arceus, it was agony, but he panted none the less. Greedily gulping down breath after breath, while a raging wildfire seared away at his lungs. At his whole body.

Was he burning? The furious fever consumed him; choking, scorching, devouring him. Heat flushed his skin, clinging to his body like wet claws digging into his bruised body. Pain crisscrossed his skin in. He didn't need to open his eyes, he knew. He was cut. The bleeding vibrant slices in his flesh stung and burned as they ran red rivers down his limbs and dripped onto the floor. The heat was relentless, determined to cook him away.

The servipers in his stomach began to slithered wildly, and the stench of death that seemed stitched into the air wasn't settling them. He wanted to throw up. The headache set in next. Waves of pulsing pain were quickly accompanied by dizziness, and the worsening of his nausea. The heavy metallic taste of blood rested on his tongue and stained his teeth.

"Wake up," someone snapped.

The voice was not one he recognized, but before he had any time to react a flash of white-hot pain splashed across his right cheek. His body swayed in the air. He felt his burning legs being dragged over the rough floor as he rocked. The hot metal rings he had been chained up with dug into his wrists and pulled his arms over his head as he limply hung there; strung up like a dead fish. Eyes blearily opened, a world of distorted shapes and fuzzy colors greeted him.

"Wake up, Aura User," he was slapped again.

After he stopped flinching, he looked up once again. A women stood in front of him, orange hair, fair skin, with sinister violet eyes; pretty but not his type. A large red 'R' on her tight black dress. Her pink lips twisted into a smirk.

"Welcome back," she cooed, "I thought I was going to need to have Raticate use bite on you."

He stared at the woman, before his memory finally aided him. His eyes widened as it all came flooding back to him. The pain was momentary replaced with shock and fear. The hunters. The explosion. Iron Island. Lucario!

His head snapped up, causing the chains holding him up to jingle and his spiky black, almost navy, hair to dance, "Where is he?" He rasped, as loud as his dry, aching throat would allow.

"Oh, your partner?" The woman teased, with a sickly-sweet tone in her voice, "Don't worry, we're not that heartless. Look to your right."

He hesitantly glanced over; neck still too stiff to actually turn his head. His breathing hitched at the sight. The bi-pedal Jackal-like blue and black Pokémon, laid sprawled out on the room's dirt floor, completely oblivious to the surrounding world. Pieces of fur were missing, ripped out, and patches of red were splotched around the rest of the body, blood stains. The glowing bars of energy were projected from a cube shaped device above the Pokémon, imprisoning his partner. The only comfort that he was given was the subtle moving of Lucario's torso as the Pokémon weakly breathed.

His heart sank, and eyes misted. The partner he had worked with for practically his whole life. The Pokémon he had, hatched, trained, struggled and laughed with for all these years, was now laying on the floor practically bleeding to death before his very eyes. The chains that bound him wouldn't even let him comfort his closest friend.

The women yawned, "What a sob show. Don't worry too much about him. He'll get the necessary treatment. Can't have either of you too damaged you know."

"Who are you?" He growled.

"The name is Cassidy, a member of team Rocket, just a stunning chess piece in the boss's beautiful plan."

"What do you want from me?"

"What makes you think we want something from you?"

"I lived on an island, made of nothing but rock, in a shack, on the opposite side from where the island's tiny settlement was built. You don't go that far to kidnap someone for no reason."

"Smarter than you look, aren't you? The boss needs something from you."

"And who's your boss?"

"Can't tell you yet, but you'll find out soon enough."

"What do he want from me?"

"Oh, just the little gift for Aura you have. He needs users for one of our latest plans, and the wonderful work you did with team galactic's bomb made a great audition," Cassidy pulled a small card shaped piece of paper with burnt edges from her pocket and fiddled with it, "I'm quite excited to work with you actually."

"Really?" Riley's voice was flat, dripping with sarcasm.

"Oh, yes. With your lineage who wouldn't want to work with you."

"I have no idea what you're talking about," He all but growled, before choking on something sticky in his cracked dry throat and breaking into a coughing fit.

Cassidy chuckled, "Don't play dumb, it's practically common knowledge that you're a descendant of the great Sir Aaron. You're his nephew? About 32 generations down, correct?"

Riley grimaced.

"It must have quite a shock when you discovered your abilities, especially, since you're actually not a direct descendant from the noble knight, but his dormant sister. Though, now that I'm looking at you it's not all that hard to believe, you're a spinning image of..."

"What do you want?" He cut her off.

"Like I said, your help."

"You attack and kidnap, me and my partner. Do you actually think I'm going to help you?"

"That's the thing, Guardian Riley, we don't really need you to be willing to help us," she twirled the card between her fingers, "Besides it's not like you'll be working on the aura bit alone."

"What are you talking about? Aura has become a forgotten practice over the centuries," he choked and coughed, "For all we know I'm the last guardian left."

"Maybe you are, maybe you're not," She stopped twirling the card, and stared at it, clicking her tongue, "Does the name, Amanda Gen, ring any bells?" She flipped the card around revealing it to be a photo.

In the photo was two young children, a boy around twelve, and a girl around five. The children look incredibly similar to one another. The same dark hair, and pale skin. They even shared a nose. The only differences that they had, were their eyes and the Pokémon accompanying them. The boy had lagoon blue eyes with a riolu sitting beside him, while the girl's eyes were a stormy grey and she had an eevee resting in her lap.

Riley froze, and a chill went up his spine. That was his photo. He remembered taking it years ago. How happy he felt when it was taken. How much it meant to him. It was such a treasured memory that he always kept the photo in a hidden pocket inside of his coat.

"What? Can't believe that we found out about your sister," Cassidy chuckled and flipped the photo back around to look at it, "When was this taken? Ten? Twelve years ago? Bet she's a real pretty young lady now."

"Mandy, has nothing to do with this," Riley quickly said, "She never gained the gift of Aura."

Cassidy laughed, "Wow, you really have been away from home for a long time, haven't you?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Your little sister got lucky too. Her powers just didn't surface as early as yours did."

Riley was suddenly remined of how sick he felt. The servipers gave a violent twist, and he tried not vomit on the floor. Amanda had aura as well? And this 'team rocket' was going after anyone with aura ability? Horror filled his heart; he wasn't there to protect her.

Cassidy hummed, "To think, in a world where Aura is practically nothing but a myth, two siblings and their cousin are given it? And they all are from the same bloodline? True what they say, it's a small world."

"Cousin?" Riley coughed, trying not to let the pain or fear make his voice tremble, "Now I know you're lying. My mother was an only child and my father line is made of nothing but dormants."

"I didn't mean a first cousin. Did you honestly think that your Great Uncle Aaron never had any kids?"

"He never married."

"Well, that didn't mean he didn't know how to have a good time. Course he most likely never knew about the baby, considering he went and got himself killed, but that doesn't mean we can't go looking."

Riley swallowed, "You won't find anything."

"Oh, on the contrary, we actually found a decent contender."

She must have been bluffing, right? But if she wasn't, he needed to know, "Who?"

"Ash Ketchum."

His stomach gave another turn, and blood drained from his face. He knew that name. The boy, with dark hair, dark eyes, and a pikachu on his shoulder. The boy who saved Lucario from himself during the rage that team galatic's horrid machine had forced the aura Pokémon into. Riley had noticed that the boy's aura was strong, but he didn't have the time to bring it up. However, now that the young guardian thought about it, the buzzing excited and passionate vibrations that waved off of the boy had seemed relatively similar to his own. As much as the idea shocked him, and increased his worry, Riley couldn't deny the possibility; they could have been family.

Cassidy began to laugh again, "Yep, the boy who was on iron island when Team Galactic attacked, was a long-lost cousin. Once again, a small world, isn't it?"

"If you lay a hand on either of them..."

"Oh, you are not in the position to be making threats," Cassidy shook her head, laughing.

The door on the left side of the room, opened. A bright bar of dim golden light flooded into the room. A man with short green hair, and honey brown eyes, poked his head through the doorway.

"What is it, Butch?" Cassidy asked.

"We found him," the man, Butch, said in a voice that sounded like he was choking on something.

"Where?"

"Sinnoh region. Matori's leading the assault."

"And the girl?"

"She's in Ryme City."

A smirk formed on Cassidy's lips and she turned back to Riley, the young guardian's face slowly draining of blood, "Well, I suggest you get comfortable, looks like you'll be getting the family reunion sooner than we thought."

She turned on her heel, and pranced out the door way. The door was closed with a harsh loud slam, but it was the subtle click of the lock that scared Riley the most. He was trapped in here. Struggling against his bindings would do nothing. The chains around his arms and wrists were new. Their metal shiny, silver, and strong. Even if he wasn't exhausted and injured the runes painted on the cuffs blocked out any chance of summoning aura to shatter them. How did they know about runes like these?

A small whimper came from the right side of the room. Riley looked over. His blue meeting a pair of ruby red eyes. Pained, tired, and frightened, ruby red eyes, that told him everything. Lucario had heard the entire conversation.

Riley knew how attached to Amanda Lucario was. As a riolu, his partner had been fascinated with the infant girl. Up until her birth, Lucario had been the youngest of the Gen family, so having something smaller than himself had made him protective of the girl. When she had been born, the aura Pokémon vowed to keep her safe. They both had.

"We not going to let anything happen to her," Riley said trying to convince himself as well as Lucario, "either of them."

The fighting type's eyes gleamed with pain, asking only one word:

How?

His tail twitched. Pale purple eyes looked into the dying light of the sunset. Another day had died, and a new one had been born as the navy pin-pricked youth known as night. From his quiet spot atop of a stone cliff, he could view the lush valley below in all its glory. It was peaceful. He sighed, sometimes she had been right about this world.

A sudden presence appeared behind him. Smaller, but almost an exact copy to his own essence. He didn't even have to turn around.

"What do you want?" he communicated without moving his lips.

"Oh, come on, do I need a reason to visit my baby brother?" a sweet almost feminine voice echoed in his mind.

Resisting the urge to roll his eyes, he turned around. He was greeted by a floating creature of pale cotton candy pink, with sky-blue sparkling eyes. She floated over towards his side, doing daydreaming like loop-de-loops along the way.

"I thought I told you not to call me that," he thought.

A light chuckle, like small silver bells, came from her mind, "You did, but I didn't want to listen."

He sighed, "What are you doing here?"

"You should already know. Haven't you been watching?"

"Of course, I have."

"Then you know."

"So...?"

She rolled her eyes, "The humans are beginning to mess with powers beyond their control. If we do not step in, it could mean the end of their world."

"If you are concerned for the future of this world, then why do you come to me? Go to Arceus. I have no will over anything like the others do."

"You don't think I have? I already tried appealing to the others."

"And they denied your request to help the humans?"

"To save the humans. And not exactly. The reaction wasn't outright rejection, more mixed."

"Mixed?"

"Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina, see no point in saving them as their realms will remain unaffected. Some of the others, like Yveltal, want it to happen. He wishes to feed on the destruction that Team Rocket will cause."

"And Arceus?"

"He's indifferent. Believing we should do nothing, and see what plays out. You know how he is with humans these eras. The alpha lost his favor for the race after the near war his chosen triggered."

"Do none of them agree with you?"

"A few others do, such as the celebi and Xerneas but they won't go against Arceus's decision."

"Then why are you here? You've gotten your answer. Go back to your tree, Mew."

"I'm here because you aren't under their thumb. The Alpha wasn't your maker. You are free and I need your help."

"And why should I help, you? Have you forgotten what the humans did to me? How they used me?"

"No, I haven't," she paused, "but they're worth saving. I know I'm not the only one who remembers a human boy jumping between us to stop the fighting."

He looked back out at the valley, now being bathed in the first few glimpses of starlight. He did remember the boy. The Darkrai-colored-haired boy, and the pikachu who sat upon his shoulder, that jumped into danger to save lives that he didn't even know.

"They've threatened him, Two. They've threatened the boy," she said.

"In what way?"

"The humans have turned their attention to the few of their kind who can access The Alpha's energy. His chosen ones. They want to use the chosen in a ritual to summon Arceus."

"And?"

"The boy is one of the few chosen that remaines."

He hummed, "How many do they need?"

"Four. They have found three and have already captured one of them."

"So, you wish me to protect the other two, and keep them from finding a fourth."

"No, not yet at least, I don't want the others to know what we're doing yet. You making a sudden appearance would be too obvious. Besides a fourth doesn't exist."

"What?"

"There are only three in the world at the moment. Any other future users, won't activate for a number of years. The alpha has confirmed that. He still keeps track of the few that appear despite his disappointment in them."

"Then why are you concerned? They can't possibly complete their goal if they don't have what they need."

"They don't know that. They will try to do it anyway, either using a Pokémon in the missing's place or just the three. That will only accomplish ripping a hole between our world and this one, which will be catastrophic. And most of them aren't trained. The ritual was made for masters. Without proper training the process will kill them. Killing innocents. Killing the boy who saved us."

He sighed, "What is your plan?"

"We bring in a fourth."

"Are you mad? You just said that they needed four. You're giving them what they need."

"No, if we bring in one to teach the others. Then if all else fails, the ritual wouldn't be as deadly."

"And where would we find this fourth? You've said it yourself; they don't exist."

"Not in the usual living state of being."

"So, they're dead?"

"Well..."

"Let me remind you that neither of us practice necromancy."

"They're not dead, but they are not alive either."

"They?"

"Him and his partner."

"How could they not be dead, yet not alive."

"They both gave up their Aura to save me and their home. I couldn't let them die. So, I entrapped them in crystal to allow their spirits to heal."

"So, they rest in a state of suspended animation?"

"I prefer the term limbo, but yes."

"How long have they rested in your chambers?"

"It's complicated. But the short answer...years."

"That long? Why haven't you released them already?"

"I was scared too. They were so close to death...If I awakened them too early, they could risk a coma. And I didn't know how it could affect their psyches, being asleep for so long. Their minds might have already passed on, and being called back to their bodies could drive them insane."

"Well, what's changed your mind?"

"Desperation. Which is why I am coming to you. Will you help me? All I asked is that you watch from afar."

He closed his eyes, and sighed.

Chapter Text

“…one day we will see each other again…”

He let a tear slip from his eye. The sensation of the droplet rolling down what was left of his cheek felt distant, faded. Everything he felt was there yet dulled, as if a fever had numbed his body. He could barely feel his own breaths anymore. He shut his eyes, and tried to smile. He truly was dying.

“I hope so, my friend.”

With that last line, it was over. The thread connecting him to this world, the sensations of the flesh, the act of living, snapped. The earthly chains bent and broke. Whatever soul he had left was sent free, floating on its way to infinity.

Images of the life he had lived flashed before his being. The early years of frolicking in the fields and forest of his parent’s land, playing with a young girl of long dark hair and grey eyes, and his first discovery of Aura, were shown in dulled images. The later ones were more vibrant, the days of his early knighthood, the travels he took, the beautiful queen he served, and the Pokémon who stood beside him. He watched them all, each treasured memory. All the way until those final steps into mew’s chamber, and then it all faded away.

What did he see then? What did it look like? It couldn’t be seen, at least in the way a normal eye could, but it was beautiful. More beautiful than anything. Not even through Aura had he’d seen something this enchanting. There were no words to describe the bewitching vision that death was. But the feeling, that was something he could understand.

There was no fear, no pain, no sorrow, no war here. Only an overwhelming wave of peace, warmth and comfort. Innocent peace and comfort, as if he was once again a newborn babe cradled in the arms of his mother. It felt safe. How long had he’d been here again? A few moments? A few centuries? He couldn’t tell anymore.

“I’m sorry, but for the sake of the future, we can’t let you rest any longer.”

A voice? Who was it? He couldn’t tell who it was, recognition didn’t come to him. He barely understood what they were saying. Suddenly it felt like the single remaining tether attached to what was ever left of his mortal body tightened and began to pull harshly. Everything rushed past him, but he couldn’t see anything beyond this world. It pulled him faster and faster, if wind was something that happened here it would be blasting in his face. Until he was brought to a sudden halt.

And then it all went black.

The warmth was still there. Gentle and comforting. Had he finally arrived? Was this the life beyond the flesh? Was that just the passage between the worlds? His being still felt numb, but vague sensations of something pressing against all sides were there; as if he was encased in something. Sounds were muffled, but there; they almost sounded like voices. Until there was a clear sharp screech, like a frozen lake’s surface splitting, that was soon followed rumbling crackle. Then something shattered around him, and the seal was released.

The warmth was quickly vanquished by a chilling draft, like his being was drenched frozen water. It stung; he realized as sensation began to slowly return. Another shattering, and he fell to what could have been a floor. It hurt; waves of tingling pain flowed over his being. He choked down a gasp, making what felt like lungs burn. He choked, coughed, gagged, and dry heaved, struggling to pull air into his body.

He tried to move, but all of the limps he could feel were aching, stinging and burning. Like thousands of flaming needles were boring into him. What was happening? Death couldn’t be this painful. Death was supposed to be peace, an end to all pain. This was agony.

“Mew, mew,” a voice spoke.

“Just give him a moment,” another echoed.

The burning slowly faded, while he laid there panting heavily. But the body wide ache was determined to hold a tight grip on him. Suddenly cold was inside of him, his bones freezing over and blood crystalizing. Shivers rack him, and what felt like a stomach rolled and twisted into a ball of ice. Out of instinct, an arm reached over to cradle his cramping abdomen. The movement didn’t feel right, it was shaky, tingling, out of touch, like the limb had fallen asleep.

Eyes opened to a bright, blurry world, which slowly cleared to reveal a jagged stone ceiling. His breathing had slowed to a pace that could be considered normal, and the pain coursing through him dulled lightly. He swallowed down rising bile, as he slowly sat up. Once more, the movement felt unsure, like if he had just broken a fever. A wave of dizziness nearly knocked him back to the ground, but he shut his eyes and breathed through the sensation.

He was in a body. His body. His arms, his legs, and even his hair if the shank of black, almost navy, hair that hung in front of his face was anything to go by. Clothes also seemed to be retained as well, because he was fully dressed in his usual blue and beige uniform, cape and all. Though his gloves were still missing. Which probably wasn’t all that strange as he hadn’t died with them on.

“Mew, Mew!” Squeaked a familiar pink creature who quickly flew in front of him.

“Mew?” He rasped, before coughing to clear his voice. His mouth was still wet but the throat felt raw, and the sound it made was weak.

The small pink Pokémon at first looked a worried, but after a moment squealed in delight, flying around him. Sir Aaron softly smiled at the Pokémon, clearly, she was happy to see him. But that begged the question how was she seeing him?

How was he alive?

He was still in Mew’s Chamber. A quick glance at his surrounding all but confirmed that fact. He pressed a hand against his chest, amazed to feel his own heart still beating. He was supposed to die. He should be dead. How could his heart still beat? How could he hear his own breath? How could he still feel his own aura, flickering and flaring inside of him? This wasn’t possible.

Sir Aaron remembered what his own master had taught him, that aura could never be destroyed only used. It was part of the being it inhabited, and could only be freed from the body in two ways. By natural death, when the borrowed life returned to Arceus’ hold, or given up. A user could give up their Aura, to bring an end to their lives, causing their bodies to slowly fade away from reality. Choosing to end their time in this life, choosing to pass on; to put it simply, suicide. Even if it was for the greater good.

He sighed; he didn’t want think of his possible death like that. He had no choice. Sir Aaron shook his head. No time to contemplate that. He needed to understand how he was here.

He felt alive, but he remembered the pain, the fading of death. Where was that paradise he had been in? How did he end up here? Perhaps, he didn’t give up all of his Aura, rather, most of it. Leaving him to collapse and sleep until his Aura restored itself. Bringing him close enough to death to glimpse the afterlife.

If so, then there was another question, how long had he been unconscious?

The chamber had changed from the one in his memory. A few more crystal clusters here and there, and some rocks seemed more worn. Both of these suggested it had been some time since he was last awake. Slowly he rose to his feet. He would need to return to the palace, and explain his actions to Lady Rin, and…Lucario. He needed to free the Pokémon from his staff. Locking Lucario away was supposed to protect him. Now that there was no evident danger and he wasn’t dead, the knight needed to free his partner and explain his actions before any more damage was caused.

Mew squealed again, drawing his attention. The knight watched as the Mythical, floated over to another crystal cluster. This one had apparently grown next to him while he was sleeping, and this one, had an interesting, yet familiar shape inside of it. Mew touched the top of the cluster, and the crystals gave a slight shiver, before cracks began to form throughout the gemstone. It was only seconds later, did the cluster split and shatter, releasing whatever was trapped inside, or rather who.

Sir Aaron felt his eyes widen with recognition. The shaking body, that was now laying on the floor, was a Pokémon. A very familiar Pokémon. Pointed ears, a jackal like snout, four appendages that hung from the head like dreadlocks, all within a color scheme of royal blue and black. His breath hitched as he rushed forward; the confusion of his situation completely forgotten. He crouched down, before pulling the struggling-to-breathe Pokémon up into his arms. Shock filled him when the Pokémon didn’t disappear as soon as Sir Aaron touched him.

“Lucario,” Sir Aaron called out gently, before casting a confused glance towards mew. Though his gaze didn’t stay on the mythical for long, as once his student’s coughing fit was over, faint, confused, whimpers came from the Pokémon’s throat.

“It’s alright,” Sir Aaron tried to comfort, “You’re alright. Just breathe.”

As calm and steady his voice sounded, it was only a mask to how the Knight truly felt. Inside he was a swirling storm of confusion, and fear. He didn’t know if Lucario was going to be alright, because he hadn’t a clue as to what was happening. If he had been in a similar state to Lucario (which Sir Aaron was still unsure if he was) then he had a vague idea to what the Pokémon was feeling at the moment, and that it would eventually ware off.

But how did Lucario even end up in the cluster? How did Lucario come to mew’s chambers? How did the jackal Pokémon even know of them in the first place!? Mew’s home was known to very few, and even Sir Aaron had only learned of it through rumor. Not knowing if it was real until he actually found mew here. How Lucario would know about it was a mystery, as the knight knew he never even mentioned anything about this to the Pokémon about it.

“Cari…?” It was small and quiet, but it was enough. All thoughts were banished from his mind as he watched the Pokémon’s blood red eyes open.

Sir Aaron?

The knight’s face split into a relieved smile, once the familiar coarse voice echoed through his mind, “You are unharmed.”

He didn’t expect what happened next. Tears began to form in Lucario’s eyes, before the Pokémon suddenly jumped upward, and wrapped his arms around the Knight, sobbing uncontrollably. Sir Aaron returned the gesture without question, but this just added to the confusion boiling inside of him. While a good friend, Lucario tended to be a serious and stoic fellow, who didn’t really enjoy physical affection. Much less be the one to instigate it. And the tears…something must be wrong.

I am sorry master! I am so sorry!

“What? Lucario what could you possibly be sorry for?”

I doubted you master! When you trapped me inside the staff, I blamed you for so long! My anger blinded me! But I understand now! Please forgive me!

Wait, so he had placed Lucario in the staff? ... “Lucario, there is nothing to apologize for. If anything, you’re the one who should forgive me. I had to seal you away otherwise…”

I would’ve suffered the same fate. I know.

Sir Aaron pulled back from the embrace to look at Lucario, “What? How?”

A time flower showed me the way. One grew in mew’s chamber, Lucario looked around, in here...it showed me your final moments.

“Not that I’m not overjoyed to see you again my friend, but how are you here? How did you come to be Mew’s Chambers?”

Shouldn’t you know? Haven’t you been watching me from the heavens? Or is that not a possibility in the afterlife?

He opened his mouth but no sound came out. Truth be told, he had no idea. what he remembered of the world beyond, if that truly was the world beyond, wasn’t anything more than a feeling. No sights, no sound, only never-ending emotion, “I am not certain,” he finally said.

Not certain? Lucario’s head tilted to one side.

Sir Aaron shook his head, “The last clear memory I have, before waking here, was of my death. And when I awoke here, you were already present. I wasn’t waiting for you, for there was no time for me to wait.”

Do you believe us not to be dead?

“I…I do not know…wait, ‘believe US not to be dead?’ Why would you be dead?”

Lucario swallowed, When I was released from the staff, the current Queen sent me on a mission to the Tree of Beginning. I gave up my Aura to save it.

Sir Aaron grimaced, “Oh, Lucario, the very reason I sealed you away was so that you wouldn’t suffer the fate I did.”

Lucario’s ears drooped, I am sorry master, but it was either me or lose the tree, and Mew.

Sir Aaron sighed, “I wanted to give you a chance to live, but I do understand you had your reasons. You have no need to apologize.”

So, are we both dead?

“Once more, I am uncertain. I am breathing, I can feel my heart beating, and I can sense your Aura and mine. If we are, I can’t…”

“You are not, you never were,” Echoed an unknown voice.

While, familiar with the sensation of telepathy, Sir Aaron still didn’t not recognize the voice. His head whirled cautiously around the chamber looking for the speaker, as telepathy gave no indication as to where the user truly stood.

“Mew, Mew!” Mew squeaked.

Mew? Did you call us here? Lucario looked to the mythical.

“Mew!”

Lucario looked puzzled, Not by yourself?

“I believe she is referring to me.”

Sir Aaron glanced, not to where the voice was heard, but to where he suddenly sensed another aura. A very powerful aura, one that riveled Mew’s itself. Floating above him, was another Pokémon. It was large, probably a little taller than he was. Pale lavender to light orchid smooth skin, and violet eyes that seem fixed into a permanent irritated glare. To Sir Aaron, it vaguely resembled mew. One of the same species perhaps?

“Who are you?” Sir Aaron, asked with caution.

“Who I am is not important to you.”

Sir Aaron eyed the odd creature up and down. His face hard, and unreadable. Yet, no matter how much he tried to hide it, the creature seemed to know what was going through the knight’s mind.

“You do not trust me.” It was a statement not a question.

“You bring us here, most likely from the black jaws of death itself, yet you will not say how, why, or who you are. Forgive me for seeming distrustful,” the Knight got to his feet.

“You have no reason to trust me, and even if you did, you probably shouldn’t trust me anyway.”

“Mew! Mew!” Mew jumped in between the unknown Pokémon, and the knight. A pointed glare on her face towards her fellow Pokémon, clearly stating, ‘stop scaring them’. The mythical Pokémon floated to the larger double’s side, and gestured to confused guardians with her head, as if to say, ‘get on with it’. For all Sir Aaron knew, the two Pokémon could have been talking through a closed mind-link.

The unknown Pokémon, rolled his eyes, before speaking once more, “I’m sure are confused as to why and how you are here?”

Something like that.

“Well, let’s just say you are the last chance we have.”

“Chance?” Sir Aaron raised a brow, “A chance for what?”

“A chance to save the future because if we don’t,” The Pokémon paused, raising an oddly shaped hand, and eyes beginning to glow.

The chamber began to melt around him. Forming into a type of shrine, that Sir Aaron vaguely recognized. But he only saw it for a moment as the vision suddenly erupted with bright cyan light, with the distant echoing sound of pained screaming voices. Then the chamber slowly returned, as the vision faded.

“It will be the end of everything.”

That vision, has it happened? Lucario’s blood red eyes gleaming with alarm.

“As of the moment, no. That was merely a possible future. One that we hope to avoid.”

“Possible, future?” Sir Aaron said, with great concern, “You have the ability to look into the future?”

“No, I only do the illusions…” The creature eyed Mew in an irritated manner, “…and the talking, apparently,” Mew rolled her eyes, “A Celebi, supplied the visions, but she was unable to help any further,” The unknown Pokémon continued to explain.

“Celebi?” Sir Aaron questioned, now very concerned. If this ‘possible future’ had gained the attention of three mythicals (though he still wasn’t so sure if this Mew double was a mythical, but Mew seemed to treat him as such, and the use of telepathy was quite telling), it wasn’t a laughing matter. The energy in the vision looked frighteningly similar to aura, and if his hunch was right…Sir Aaron hoped he was wrong.

“Mew!” Mew squeaked and nodded.

“How do we prevent this?” The knight asked.

“Are you familiar with the ‘Ritual of the Calling’, Sir Aaron?”

The knight nodded, “Yes, I have read the scrolls on that. It was a ritual designed for four Guardians to generate enough power to summon Arceus,” his head gave a small shake, “It was a fool’s plan. Never done successfully.”

“Well, in this time…”

This time?...“Wait, hold on,” Sir Aaron, said, rubbing the bridge of his nose, “Pardon my interruption, but ‘this time’? How long has it been since our deaths?”

The unknown Pokémon looked towards Mew, clearly telling her to handle it. Mew’s expression turned from irritation into one of a troubled soul, and she slowly floated over to the Aura Guardians.

“Can you understand me?” Echoed a feminine voice.

Mew? Lucario’s eyes widened.

“I don’t usually use telepathy openly, but I think this situation requires it. I have a lot to explain to you both.”

Sir Aaron glanced at Lucario, the jackal Pokémon’s attention fully on the mythical in front of them, before turning back to Mew, “How long has it been?”

Mew flinched, “I believe that there is something you should know before I tell you that. You never died.”

What? Lucario blinked.

“How is that possible?” Sir Aaron gaped, disbelieving.

Mew glanced at the ground, looking almost shameful, “I intervened, right before you slipped away. Embedding you in the tree’s crystal too allow you to heal. I couldn’t let you sacrifice yourselves for me. Not when I could save you. Please forgive me.”

Sir Aaron stared in shock; he had never died. It took him a moment to comprehend what he had just been told. He had walked into the chamber completely content with the fact that he would never walk back out. He expected that, he accepted that. To hear that it wasn’t the truth, threw him off. He wasn’t upset with this fact, truly. He had never wanted to die. He just didn’t know what to do with this revelation.

Sir Aaron? Lucario, drew him back into the conversation.

“Oh, uhm, no need for apologizes Mew. You save us,” He finally replied, still contemplating.

“You might not be so forgiving, once I answer your question.” Mew looked away sheepishly.

“I will try to be, now how many years have we’ve been…” The knight trailed off.

Mew nodded, “I believe the word you are looking for is sleeping. As for the answer, it is a little more complicated than just a mere number, Sir Aaron. You and Lucario have been resting for different amounts of time. Lucario has only been here for a few years, but you Sir Aaron slept through Lucario’s entire imprisonment in the staff…You have been here for over 700 years.”

The knight’s heart might have stopped. Over 700 years had passed. How much has changed? What happened to the world? What was Rota like now? Was Rota even still a kingdom in power? Had there been any more wars? Considering that Mew had waited until now to awaken him, it must have remained somewhat peaceful all that time.

“I know that this is jarring, but we don’t have much time.” The Unknown Pokémon spoke.

“You could give him a moment, Two,” Mew chided, unimpressed.

“I would Mew, but we are on a deadline.”

Mew rolled her eyes.

“May I continue with the explanation?”

Sir Aaron only nodded, trying to not look as flustered as he felt.

“As I was saying, in this time a group of humans bent on world domination, known as Team Rocket, have stumbled across an incomplete version of the ‘Ritual of the Calling’, and plan to go through with it. The vision I showed you would be the outcome if they are left to their own devices.”

“That can’t be,” Sir Aaron shook his head, “The ritual is ludicrous. Even if the scroll they have is incomplete, it shouldn’t cause something like that.”

“You would be correct, if masters, who could handle the auratic backlash were used in it.”

“Pardon?” Sir Aaron raised a brow, not liking where this could be heading.

“During this era, I am not sorry to say, Aura isn’t as common as it was in your days. Many of the aura bloodlines from your days have gone dry.”

Sir Aaron puzzled over this information. Sure, some times Aura skipped generations, but no bloodline could ever become truly dormant. And that certainly didn’t mean that other lines didn’t start to show Aura abilities.

As much as he wanted the Pokémon elaborate on that, he had more important matters to attend to, “Then what do they plan to do? Unless they are allies of the Aura Guild, they wouldn’t have any access to users otherwise.”

“Children.”

Children? Lucario’s eyes widened, ears suddenly up and alert.

“I don’t believe you understand what I’m trying to say. Perhaps it’s better if I just show you,” A hand was raised again and the eyes began to glow once more.

Like the previous vision, everything melted away. In place of the crystals and closed in walls, a mirage of open stony terrain forged. Rocky hills and valleys surrounded them, with a peaceful blue sky overhead. Though it didn’t remain that way. The echoing sound of frantic footsteps drew their attention. And they were quickly met with…themselves. A young man and a Pokémon. Sure, Lucario’s species tended to all look the same, so the similar looking Pokémon companion to the young man didn’t shock them. But the young man…

Other than the clothing, which was bizarre to say the least, he was a spinning image of the knight. The blue eyes, the spiky black near navy hair, pale skin, it was all the same. How?

The lucario in the vision growled something,

‘I know! Just keep running!’, the young man shouted.

The ground around the mirages, suddenly erupted in plumes of flames, and they were both thrown down. The lucario was the first to his paws, his head swirled around and what had them on the run came into view.

Five to six people, all dressing in strange black clothing that was marked with a red ‘R’, stood not too far from them, a number of fully evolved Pokémon at their sides: Charizard, Nidos, Blastoise, and Gengar. A scandalously dressed woman with tangerine hair, seemingly leading the pack.

The lucario gave a quick concerned glance over to young man, who had yet to get up off the ground, before summoning a bone rush, and taking a stand between his human and their pursuers.

‘Take him out,” the woman ordered.

And the battle began. While the lucario was clearly skilled in the art of combat, it was still a battle of five on one. Powerful attacks, swatted the poor jackal Pokémon from all sides, and rammed him into the rocky ground. Still the aura Pokémon kept getting back on to his paws, and continued fighting. Eventually, one of the nidos managed to trip him up, sending the bleeding broken Pokémon to the ground, this time he was not able to get back up. The Charizard loomed over him, readying to end it all, but just when they were going to send a blast of burning hellfire down on him, the young man ran in between the lucario and the attack.

But they didn’t burn, as the look alike managed to summon and aura field at the last moment to save them. Though, that didn’t last long, a combination of well-placed blast attacks, and a dragon claw, made the field shattered. The young guardian screamed in agony as he was thrown back across the stony field. Not just from the impact of his landing, but from the blast of aura that he was channeling zapping back into his body harshly. The body slumped to the ground, unable to move due to the fresh cuts and burns.

‘Is he dead?’ The woman asked.

One of her grunts walked up to the injured man, and roughly pick up the now limp guardian. Placing two fingers on his neck, the grunt shouted, ‘He’s got a pulse. A little thready, but he’ll make it.’

‘Good,’ the woman smirked kneeling down to get a closer look at the now unconscious guardian, ‘He’ll do just fine. Lucky, we got this tip. So, few of them these days, and he’s not too bad on the eyes either.’

‘Think he’ll know about any others?’ the grunt asked.

‘Well, if not, I’m sure we’ll find more, sooner or later,’ She hummed, before messing with the odd, now tattered and burnt, blue coat. Eventually pulling out a small card; its edges freshly singed, ‘Maybe sooner than we think.’ She stood up, ‘Take him to the chopper, and grab the mutt too, Giovanni might need him.’

The vision began to fade. The horrifying images, slowly trickling away. Sir Aaron and Lucario stood there in shock.

Was that real? Has that happened? Lucario turned towards the mythicals present.

“I’m sorry, but at this point in time, that vision was real.”

“Who was he?” Sir Aaron asked, staring at the now bare ground where the mirage of his fellow guardian had laid, broken and bloodied.

“His name is Riley. He’s your nephew.”

Sir Aaron whirled around, eyes wide, and breath hitched, “He’s my what?”

“You had a younger sister, correct?”

Sir Aaron nodded.

“According to Celebi, she was married off not long after your disappearance. The young guardian is her direct descendant.”

Once more the knight didn’t know what would do with the given information. His first reaction was denial. Emily had been rebellious by nature ever since she was a child, finding the things that society deemed appropriate for a woman of her age and class boring. Preferring to do things that was typically considered too rough for girls. She had especially never been interested in marriage, and she would often run away from home whenever a suitor came to ask for her hand. He knew of these antics as whenever she ran away, she would come to Cameron Palace to see him.

His next feeling on the matter, was guilt. She had stated a number of times that she would’ve rather become a Knight, even though he had told her that wouldn’t be possible, as no one would accept a girl for a squire. Emily had always fixed a pointed glare at him whenever he told her this, and then proudly stated, much to their mother’s horror, that she would dress up as a boy if she had too. In a way he was the reason that she finally submitted to her given role, and not tried to follow her dream. She’d run to him if she ever needed an escape. When he was gone, she didn’t have anywhere to go. Sir Aaron knew that she wouldn’t have been happy married.

Then came the shock of reality. She had married, and bared whoever her husband was a child. A child who had grown and bore children of their own. This cycle would continue until now, when the young man, Riley, was alive. And the resemblance between the two of them…there was no denying the blood they shared.

“As I have said, the aura bloodlines of your era, have long lost their gifts. However, there is one exception, yours. Your bloodline, is the only one surviving until this century. Of course, it wasn’t untouched by time’s hand, as only three of them now carry the gift. But Team Rocket won’t stop until they have all of them.”

They plan to use them in the ritual. Lucario concluded.

The mew look-alike, nodded, “They already have Riley, the eldest and the one with the most training regarding his ability. The other two,” He turned to Sir Aaron, “Your niece and direct descendent, are another story.”

“Direct Descendent?” Sir Aaron took a step back, “That…that couldn’t be, I…I never…”

“Being revived after centuries of sleep, can muddle with memories,” Mew chimed in rather quickly, “You may not recall, or you may have never known but we do have confirmation, that you did father a child.”

Sir Aaron rubbed the side of his head, feeling a headache settling in, and sighed.

Master? Lucario chided, seeming concerned.

“I’m alright,” The knight turned to the mythicals, “What must we do?”

“Find the remaining children, and teach them. If they have basic understanding of their powers, it should stop the ritual from being so destructive if the worst comes to pass. And if it is possible rescue Riley.”

Do you know who or where they are? Lucario said with slight urgency.

“All we know of the girl is her name, Amanda Gen, and that she is Riley’s younger sister. Her location has been a mystery to us ever since she escaped Team Rocket’s first attempt to capture her.”

“Which is a good thing, really. If we can’t find her, likely Team Rocket can’t either.”

“And my…descendent?” Sir Aaron, asked the word feeling foreign on his tongue, but never the less he was starting to feel concern for what was most likely his only remaining family, “Do you know of his name?”

The unknown Pokémon, raised a hairless brow, before answering, “Ash Ketchum.”

Lucario’s ears pricked up even higher, and his eyes became as large as dinner plates, did you say his name was Ash?

“So, you do have history with him,” The creature turned to Mew, “You weren’t lying.”

Sir Aaron immediately concluded that he was missing some information, and turned to his partner, “Lucario?”

When I was first released from the staff, there was a boy, an Aura user. Untrained but…Master, his aura…it was an almost exact copy of yours…Lucario’s gaze went to the floor, I never made the connection…

“Lucario, you are correct,” Mew said, “The boy who helped save me is Sir Aaron’s descendant. Of course, he is a few years older since you last saw him.”

“Not that this revelation isn’t interesting, but we are limited on time.”

Sir Aaron was definitely getting a headache, “I apologize if this takes a moment,” he took a deep breath, “Do you know where he is?”

“Yes, I keep track of his whereabouts. He’s currently in the Sinnoh region.”

Sir, Aaron raised a brow, “Sinnoh Region?”

“What you would know as the Hisui Kingdom.”

Sir Aaron tried not to look shocked. He had been to the Hisui Kingdom. In fact, that was where the Aura Guild was stationed and ruled; being the birth place of Arceus and aura it was the natural choice. It was where he had been sent to train as a young boy before becoming a squire. The name change was concerning, as that could mean that a new power could’ve claimed the kingdom’s land.

“That’s an awfully long way from here. Do you have a way for us to get to him?”

The unknown Pokémon smirked, “I was hoping you would ask.”

Then the world went white.

Chapter Text

Goh paced frantically, the day's events going through his mind. First Professor Cerise sent them to Sinnoh to investigate the giant Pokémon sightings. Second, that nice man helped them out at the fishing shop. Third they went fishing and he caught the giant Pokémon which turned out to be a magikarp. Fourth, the resort was attacked by team rocket, and they kidnapped Ash.

The resort was attacked by team rocket, and they kidnapped Ash.

Everything else today made sense, except for this one event. Sure, Team Rocket had been a pain in his neck ever since he met Ash. Yet, it was always the same team, a pink haired woman, a blue bobbed man, and a talking mouth, and they always were after Pikachu. This encounter, though, it was different. These weren't the usual grunts, they were meaner, stronger, smarter, more organized. And that woman, glasses and purple bob cut hair, she had been in charge that much he could recognize, but the young trainer didn't know who she was.

And yet her words still rang clear in his mind, "'That's the boy, get him.'"

The following battle...it didn't last long. All of the Pokémon they used were well trained and strong. In the end, Ash was poisoned, and trapped on the wrong side of a flame thrower. No one could get to him. Goh sighed, and stopped pacing, raising a hand up to run a palm down his face. His pale blue eyes drifted down to the small blue and black Pokémon sitting on the nearby bench.

Riolu sat there, his tail limp on the bench's cushion, and the pair of tomato berry eyes remained stuck on the floor. Goh, didn't understand why, but Riolu and Ash, despite only knowing each other for a little over two weeks were extremely close. Almost as close as the trainer was with his starter Pikachu, and they had been together for years. Goh, wanted to say that the reason Riolu was practically attached to Ash's hip was because the baby Pokémon imprinted on him, but over time it seemed to be something different. Riolu would know what Ash was feeling, and in turn Ash would know what Riolu was feeling. Goh couldn't explain it, no matter how much he wanted to, but he knew Riolu wasn't taking Ash's capture well.

Goh's hand clenched into fists. He had to get Ash, back! But how? Those grunts were the strongest he'd ever seen. And while Goh had some experience with battles, he wasn't really a battling trainer, and certainly didn't have the skill Ash had. Goh, had become a trainer at sixteen, while Ash started at ten. That's six years of experience that Ash over him. Eventually Goh just had to ask himself...

"What would Ash, do?" Goh held a fist to his chin in thought, "He would run in to rescue the Pokémon...without a plan... he would battle grunts...by himself...," Goh sighed, "But he wouldn't give up, so neither will I."

He sat down on the bench opposite of Riolu, "I won't give up. But where do I start? I can't just run-in like Ash could, I need a plan," He groaned, "I don't even know where they took him."

"...olu?" Riolu squeaked.

"We'll get him back," Goh swore, "I just need to figure out how."

"You some got spirit, and I fancy that," Suddenly spoke a somewhat familiar voice, in a strange accent.

Goh turned towards the voice, finding the nice people who help him earlier. A woman with pink hair, and a man with a messy periwinkle bob.

"So, we're just going to help you," the woman said.

"Really?" Goh, said standing up, "how?"

"One, a direct attack simply won't work," the woman said.

"Yeah, I pretty much figured that, I don't have the same experience that Ash does," Goh said.

"Good, to know you can think," the woman said.

"Before, amidst all the chaos, I managed to put a tracer on one of their Pokémon. That way, we know exactly where they are!" the man said.

"That really helps," Goh said, ideas and determination began to form in his mind.

"Now, while you lure them away from their helicopter, we'll sneak in and free all the Pokémon see!" the woman said enthusiastically.

"Yeah, yeah, tha-that could work," Goh said, with a nod, "Thank you. Thank you so much. You have no idea how much this is helping me."

"Ri ri olu!" Riolu began to shout.

"Now what's going on with this little one?" the Man asked.

Goh looked at Riolu, "I think he saying he'll help you break the Pokémon out," the young trainer turned back to the nice friendly folk, "His trainer was taken in the attack. Riolu must want to make sure he's okay."

"Well, I 'suppose, I could use the hand," the man said.

"Then let's get a move on," The woman said.

Meowth held the tracker in his paws, the tracker's location appearing as a shinning dot on the device's map. Strangely the cat Pokémon was completely okay with what he and his companions were about to do. It was nothing more than a usual caper, even though they were stealing from their own guys. But anything was worth doing if it meant seeing Matori miserable. And the daydreaming of how well the boss would treat them once they brought in all of those Pokémon was also very convincing.

However, Meowth's daydreaming was cut short by Jessie suddenly asking something that made all thoughts of the Boss's lap vanish.

"Does anyone else find it a little weird that Matori was after the twerp?"

James, thought about it for a moment before nodding, "It certainly is odd."

"Yeah, we never really told her about Pikachu," Meowth said.

"That's true," James said, "She shouldn't know."

"You both are missing the point," Jessie said, "Matori wasn't after pikachu, she was after the twerp. Didn't you hear what she said back there?"

"It was an odd thing for her to say," James said.

"Especially since she shouldn't know about him," Meowth grumbled.

"Has that bob cut been following us!?" Jessie growled.

"Not likely," James said, "This might be part of one of the boss's bigger plans."

"Then why weren't we told about it!? If there's anyone who knows more about the twerp it's us! The boss knows that!" Jessie growled, steam coming out of her ears.

"Well actually Boss wouldn't know that," James said.

"Huh?" Jessie and Meowth said.

"Well, we never really told him who's Pikachu we're always trying to steal," James said with a shrug.

"Wobba? (We didn't?)"

Riolu was anxious, though he didn't show it. He didn't want to show it, the little Pokémon's prideful and stubborn nature wouldn't allow it. But he was, and he wasn't the only one. The young pup could feel anxiety vibrating through Goh's aura, but thankfully the human also felt a little quiver of determination, which brought Riolu a little comfort.

He looked to Raboot. Honestly, the break dancer's aura barely changed; still calm, and resigned with little anxiety going through it, though now she was feeling slight excitement. Which Riolu didn't know what to make of. Few things excited her, and while he was happy that his friend was enjoying the situation, he was also upset with her opinion, as IT WAS HIS TRAINER THAT WAS IN DANGER!

And finally, the 'friendly folk' that were helping them. Honestly, this made Riolu give up on trying to understand Team Rocket. One day, they were stalking and trying to steal away Pikachu, and then the next they were working against their own organization. They were weird. And the little Pokémon also couldn't understand why his trainer didn't recognize them. Sure, they changed their hair and clothes, but their auras were exactly the same. It was kind of embarrassing that his trainer could sense him and legendries (if Pikachu's bedtime stories weren't exaggerating), yet couldn't recognize his own stalkers.

Though, once Goh had left to distract the team, Riolu was grateful that James would be accompanying him. Riolu rushed forward to the nearest cage's lock. The metal lock was strong, the little Pokémon took it into both of his paws shaking and pulling at it with all his might. Though, as one would expect it didn't break. Riolu scowled at the metal contraption, he didn't know any moves that could break it, and he didn't have any of his spikes yet so he couldn't cut it off.

"I can take care of that," James said, thankfully dropping the ridiculous fake accent, while there were no other humans in the area.

The human, pulled out small pins form his shirt pocket, and gently stuck them into the keyhole. After a few moments, there was a subtle click, and James removed the lock from the cage door. Riolu stared on with curiosity; he didn't know humans could do that.

"Riolu, olu (okay everyone out)" once the Pokémon moved through the door.

"Faster than lightning."

Riolu watched anxiously, looked for his trainer amongst the crowd. But Ash wasn't there. There were eevees, ludicolos, and many more species, but no Ash. He craned his neck to looked beyond some of the larger Pokémon, and when that didn't work, he sent small aura waves to try and find his trainer.

But Ash wasn't there.

The little Pokémon clenched his fists, and grit his small fangs in concern and frustration. Hold on Ash.

"He doesn't look like much," one of the grunts voiced.

"Don't be fooled, according to our sources he is one of the last aura users. That makes him powerful, and dangerous," the woman with the purple bob-cut said, "Besides, he has an impressive record in the Pokémon leagues, just last year he was the owner of the mysterious bond phenomenon Greninja."

"Then shouldn't he not have a Pokémon with him?"

The woman hummed, the tone sounding annoyed but it was clear that was merely her resting emotion, "Leave the pikachu. Giovanni is unsure if partners are needed for the ritual or not," She turned the grunt, "Load him on the to the chopper. Best we leave before anything happens."

"What about his poisoning?"

"He's still in the early stages. Wait until he's about to pass out to cure him. The poison will keep him subdued and easier to transport."

Ash panted through another wave of nausea. Everything around seemed to muddled, yet he felt a sense of urgency. He had to get out of here. But the splitting headache, would splinter and crack any plan he could from before he even finished the thought. He just needed to focus.

"Pikapi," The small yellow mouse sitting in his lap, squeaked in concern.

"We'll be okay buddy," Ash rasped.

The Pokémon trainer needed to find a way out of this, or find out what's going on. Or both. Both would be nice. He shifted himself trying to get a better view of where his cage was. The cold metal bars pressing against his body, which both helped with his fever and made the soreness in his bones ache even deeper. He was in some kind of tent; tucked away in a corner, but he could still see the door flap. A way out was in sight. The only issue was getting out of the cage.

Ash's mind began to run through the options. He may not have been booking smart, but he could think on his feet, and now was good time to have that skill. What did he have in this situation? Well, his bag had pecha berries, but that was on a table which was on the other side of the tent. Okay, so, no way to reach that at the moment. He had Pikachu. Ash looked into the worried eyes of said Pokémon. An Iron tail would make quick of the bars, but with how small the cage was, there was no way the attack wouldn't hit him as well. If he became desperate enough, he'd take the concussion, but for right now he would look for another way out.

Suddenly a shiver went up Ash's spine. At first, he thought the fever that the poison gave him swayed into the cold direction, but that explanation didn't sit right with him. Especially when sensation lingered and he was pretty sure he had felt something like this before. It was like something was trying to reach out to him, like a hand that couldn't stretch far enough to grab his. It felt like...Greninja.

Ash hadn't really had much time to reminisce about his now released Pokémon. However, he could never forget. The bond phenomenon wasn't something that happened every day, though if the pictures in Ninja village were anything to go by, they weren't the first to do it. He could remember, the stadium, the bright lights, the crowd cheering, the rush of battle, and Greninja reaching out to him.

But at the same time, this wasn't Greninja. Greninja was miles away in Kalos, and while Ash didn't know the limits of their bond, he was pretty sure he couldn't reach him all the way in sinnoh. Besides, this felt different; similar, but not the same. Ash wracked his foggy mind, who could be reaching out to him like this?

A flash of blue fur and large red eyes came to him. Riolu.

Riolu, could be the only one who could reach out to him like this. Now, that he thought about it this was what he felt when the baby Pokémon was still in his egg. Riolu was nearby, whether that was good thing or not Ash was still debating. That could mean that Riolu was also captured or he came to rescue Ash. Hopefully it was the latter. Now if only Ash could figure out how to respond to the little aura Pokémon.

Then there was a rumbling explosion, like thunder. It was the sound of a concentrated attack.

Goh watched as the Team Rocket forces retreated. They had won, all of the captured Pokémon were now being escorted back to the resort by Officer Jenny, but they still haven't found Ash. The Pokémon trainer was getting worried, but he still told himself to calm down. He needed to remain something steady for Riolu to latch on to, as the baby Pokémon was practically in a frenzy.

Riolu ran around searching every single cage or structure on the grounds. Goh felt his heart break watching the baby Pokémon. The trainer walked over to the Riolu, and rubbed the Pokémon's head. The pup looked up at Goh, and let out a small worried whine.

"We'll find him," Goh said, "Don't worry."

Goh looked around; he eyes locking on to a large green tent that was further from the other structures. Tucked away, under a cluster of short trees. The shade from the leaves making the green of the tent blend in almost perfectly. He wondered...

"Have you checked there yet?"

Riolu shook his head, and started towards the tent. Goh followed the Pokémon although at a slower pace, due to the fact that he wasn't a Pokémon and not that athletic. Riolu screamed and leaped through the unzipped door. Goh knew they had found him, before he rounded the tent and looked inside. There was Ash, caged, skin tinted violet and clammy, but alive. Riolu tugging on the cage lock.

"Ash!" Goh shouted, jumping into the tent.

"Hey, Goh," Ash said, a little breathless.

"You look awful," Goh said.

"Yeah, poison will do that to you," Ash chuckled.

"How can you be laughing right now?!"

"You have to look at the bright side of things, Goh."

"Is there a key anywhere?" Goh asked staring at the heavy lock on the cage.

"I think they left one in one of the draws," nodded to the desk on the other side of the tent, "but I didn't really get to see. I was trying not to throw up," Ash looked to Riolu, "They're some pecha berries in my backpack, can you grab some?"

Riolu nodded and pulled down the bag. Sticking his head and paws into the pack to search through the organized mess that was the inside.

Goh found a key in one of the draws and turned around. After fiddling with the lock for a moment, there was an audible click and the lock came loose. The door opened with a squeak, and Goh pulled his friend out. Riolu shoved a pecha berry in Ash's face.

"Thanks buddy," Ash said before taking a bite out of the berry, "What about team rocket and the other Pokémon?"

Goh huffed a laugh, and shook his head, "Of course you're worried about them. Team rocket is on the run, and the Pokémon are being sent home. We won."

"Yeah us!" Ash cheered, weakly.

"You, okay?"

"Olu...?"

"Yeah, it usually takes a minute for the pecha to take effect. I'm going to be fine," Ash waved it off.

"Any idea why these guys wanted you?" Goh asked, "I mean we've dealt with team rocket before, but it was never like this. It's never been these many grunts without a talking Pokémon."

Ash shook his head, "No. This was a first even for me. It's always been the same guys. Maybe a mad scientist and guy in a suit, but other than that, just the regular weirdos."

The dark-haired Pokémon trainer, got to his feet, and started towards the door.

"Whoa wait where are you going?" Goh said.

"To help out. No way is everything sorted out just like that," Ash said, heading towards the door.

"You were just poisoned and kidnapped!" Goh nearly shouted.

"So?" Ash said giving Goh the classic clueless Ash face. The same face Ash would make whenever he didn't understand something about his phone. Or anything involving the internet. How Ash made it to 16 without ever going online more than a public phone is something Goh will never understand.

Goh sighed, and just followed his friend.

Officer Jenny, was very happy to take Ash's statement. A first-hand witness, even if it was from a kidnapping victim, could have very valuable information. Goh, while glad that Ash was okay, was extremely confused with how nonchalant his friend was. Ash had just been kidnapped, and poisoned by a terrorist organization, yet he was talking to Officer Jenny like it was an everyday occurrence. Goh shook his head; Ash was weird.

All of the trainers reunited with their Pokémon. It was a very happy sight. Goh stood with Ash, Officer Jenny and the friendly people who helped out all day. Riolu and Raboot at their feet, the former of the two all but clinging to his trainer's leg.

"Thanks for your cooperation," Officer Jenny said to the woman.

"No sweat," the pink haired woman replied.

"You guys were amazing. You helped save me and all of the Pokémon," Ash said, "Thanks for that."

"Pika! Pika!"

"Well, it's what any hero would've done," said the women, "Well, just be moseying along now."

She and her group turned to leave.

"At least tell us your names!" Goh called after them.

The woman turned around with a smirk, "Prepare for trouble my name is..."

Her group cut her off and rushed away, "Well what's in a name anyway?" the man called.

"They seem like really nice people, you know?" Goh said. Yeah, really nice, really weird people.

"Yeah," Ash agreed.

"Pika!"

Ash suddenly froze, his eyes widening and skin going pale; Goh swore his friend's hair was standing on end. The dark-haired trainer whirled around, brown eyes looking deep into the shadows of the surrounding forest; his breathing suddenly going harsh. The little blue Pokémon at Ash's feet mimicking his trainer's motions.

"Ash are you alright?" Goh said, starting to grow worried. Had the pecha berry not been effective?

Ash looked to Riolu, "Did you feel that too?"

Riolu nodded, and took off into the woods.

Chapter Text

The world around him was a swirl of too bright, too sparkly colors. Once again, his senses were ripped away, only to return after a few moments. Lucario could tell there was some kind of grainy surface pressing against his snout once touch returned to him. His ear twitched picking up the sound of some wild Pokémon nearby. After a second, he finally felt like the world had stopped spinning enough to open his eyes and get to his paws. There was no crystal chamber surrounding him now. There was only forest, if the many numbers of trees around him were any indication.

Sir Aaron let out a small hiss through his teeth as he back stood up, having been thrown back to the ground as well. Lucario watched his friend and winced. Clearly the teleportation had been just as hard on the guardian, if not more so. Perhaps it was due to the knight’s longer time in the crystal.

“Are you finished?”

Ah, yes, the Mew copy. Lucario was beginning to not like him. The lavender Pokémon floated near the tree tops, arrogantly looking down at them. An expression of boredom on the pale purple face. The Jackal like Pokémon sent an unamused glare at the mythical. Teleportation, without warning, is not something anyone can recover quickly from, apparently the copy was unaware of this. Or he knew perfectly well and was just taking enjoyment out of the guardians’ misery.

“Apologizes,” Sir Aaron, ever the peacekeeper, said.

“The boy should be with in the area. I trust you can find him on you own?”

“You won’t be accompanying us?” Sir Aaron raised a brow.

“I’ll be watching from afar, but I’d rather not be in the presence of your kind more than I have to.”

Do you have distain for Aura Guardians? Lucario glared.

“I have distain for humans.”

“Then why are you working to save them?”

“The short answer, sir knight, is debt.”

Debt? The jackal Pokémon titled his head and gave an unamused stare.

“I’ve only ever trusted two humans, one is dead. The other still remains, and I own him greatly. If Team Rocket were to succeed, he would die. Mew knows of this, and that is how she strongarmed me on to this train wreck of a plan. Need I explain further?”

“So, you’re certain the lad is here?” Sir Aaron asked, wisely changing the subject.

“I have an easier time keeping track of particular humans than Mew. A perk of not having to return to a certain spot on the planet for certain periods of time. I know he’s here, and once the girl shows herself again, I’ll know where she is as well. This was my part; I’ll leave you to do yours.” The Pokémon vanished in a flash of light.

Cheery fellow. Lucario deadpanned sarcastically.

“He must have his reasons,” Sir Aaron said, “Can you sense the lad?”

Lucario closed his eyes. The world of black slowly came to life with ghostly whispers of the physical world. Shapes and shades of silvers and blues rushed past him swiftly. It took a moment longer than he expected, but eventually the familiar figure of a brighter fiery blue came into his vision. Along with a smaller similarly colored figure stand next to him. Ash.

He’s here.

“How far?”

Not very. The mew copy spoke the truth.

“Is he distressed?”

No, actually his Aura appears quite relaxed. Lucario opened his eyes, pulling out of his aura vision.

Sir Aaron nodded, “I suppose we should start towards him.”

Walking through the woods, it wasn’t all that foreign. If it wasn’t for the odd circumstances, it would’ve been exactly the same as the adventures they shared, before their ‘deaths’.

“Lucario, you have spent time in this era, correct?” Sir Aaron finally asked.

Yes, master I did, the jackal Pokémon didn’t miss the flinch that the knight made.

“Is there anything that you had learned that could possibly aid us?” Sir Aaron asked, before rubbing the back of his neck with a hiss through his blunt teeth.

Sir Aaron, are you alright?

“Don’t worry old friend, I am merely sore,” the knight snorted, “I suppose that sleeping inside of a rock for 700 hundred years would do that to one’s body.”

Lucario nodded, I am afraid that I don’t know much about this time. I was only awake for a few days, and did not see much. The most differences I had seen was in the clothing and technology.

“Clothing?” Sir Aaron raised a brow.

The maidens dress more like the men, and seem to be much more comfortable with showing their skin, Lucario explained, remembering the outfit the May had chosen to swim in.

Sir Aaron cleared his throat, “What of the lad? Have you met him?”

Lucario nodded, I have. Ash is…impulsive, energetic, and at times foolish, but has a good heart.

“Sounds like you’re fond of him,” Sir Aaron said.

He pushed me into a lake, while trying to fight me.

Sir Aaron failed miserably to hide the snort of laughter that bubbled up his throat, “You must be very fond of him if he still lives.”

He grows on you. Like a weed.

They stepped into a clearing, between the trees. Thick green brush stuffed between the surrounding tree trunks. The bright sun high overhead, suggesting that there were at least a few hours left before dark. Lucario stopped and closed his eyes, trying to search for the boy again through Aura, but after a moment, he stopped and growled.

“Lucario?” Sir Aaron asked concerned.

Something is wrong.

“Is the lad in trouble?”

No, it’s just. I am having difficulty keeping track of him.

“Are you alright?”

Yes, master, I feel fine. It’s just for some reason, he is just getting lost in between all the other Auras around us.

“Getting lost?”

There was a sudden rustling of something running through a bush. Lucario turned around just in time to see a small pup run into Sir Aaron’s leg. The small blue and black Pokémon rolled backwards, landing on the ground. The pup shook his head, before staring up at Sir Aaron. The tomato berry eyes widened and tiny mouth dropped open, gaping in awe.

“Who are you little one?” Sir Aaron asked, raising a surprised brow.

The pup only blinked.

“Riolu!” Someone called from behind the trees.

Lucario’s ear twitched; he knew that voice. Suddenly, popping out the bushes was a boy. A very familiar boy. Ash. He was maybe a few years older than Lucario had last seen him, definitely not a boy any more, but almost a young man; maybe even a little taller. His hair was clipped a little shorter, but still in the same messy, black, almost navy, cut that was mostly hidden underneath a ridiculous bright red hat. The tanned complexion was the same, even if the outfit was different.

“Riolu! You can’t run off like…” Ash froze where he stood, eyes widening.

Those dark brown eyes caught Lucario by surprise, the utter shock and sorrow in them wasn’t what the jackal Pokémon thought he would see. Ash’s eyes weren’t blue or grey like the usually aura user, but they still reflected all the emotions and power of his aura. The eyes always gave everything away.

“Pikapi (ash?)” A small yellow Pokémon exited from the brush behind Ash, “Pika!? (What!?)”

The young user gave no indication of even hearing the fluffy lightning wielder. Seemingly frozen, in a trance.

Ash-

“Are you real?” Ash whispered cutting him off.

Lucario’s ears stood high. That wasn’t the reaction the aura Pokémon expected. He had thought there would be maybe a snarky remark, maybe anger, but not the fear and sadness.

Lucario nodded.

…And the aura Pokémon was immediately pulled into the tight embrace of the lad’s hug. Lucario froze for a moment. Then Ash abruptly let go, pulling away.

“Sorry,” Ash mumbled, rubbing his nose with his finger, “I just needed to make sure that you were real.”

And why wouldn’t I be?

“Because the last time I saw you, you were literally fading from existence in my arms,” Ash deadpanned, “And there’s been a lot shit since then and now, so forgive me if I didn’t believe what I was seeing. I’m glad to see you.”

Considering the circumstances, it’s understandable. I am happy to see you too.

Sir Aaron was stunned into silenced, a rare occurrence due to the number of odd and strange situations he had been in. However, this was an exception. The lad, maybe of 16, in front of him was his descendant. His family. And an aura user no doubt, the knight could sense the raw power that came off of the lad. Untamed and wild, but full of potential, like he had once been. The only other familial Aura User Sir Aaron ever had interacted with was his father, and even then, the elder guardian didn’t really pay much attention to Sir Aaron as a child, other than training of course. His father gave even less love to his dormant Mother and Emily who had taken after her.

As for creating a family of his own in adulthood, while the idea had appealed to the knight. Sir Aaron never had the time to actually find a bride of his own, and his parents didn’t set up a match for him (not that he was upset with that) like his mother tried to do for Emily. Besides, by age 30 he knew that any suitor his mother might find would probably be younger than Emily. He didn’t like the idea of having a wife that would be more of a child than his younger sister. Though apparently, even if he didn’t remember it, the lack of a marriage didn’t seem to stop him from continuing his blood line.

Even though Ash wasn’t an exact copy of him, Sir Aaron could still see the similarities. Their hair was identical, even if in different styles. While the lad’s eyes were of a deep brown (that seemed oddly familiar) and not a pale blue, they seemed to have the same spark in them that Sir Aaron’s had. Finally, Lucario had been right, the lad’s Aura seemed to mirror his own, and right now it was flaring in frightened confusion.

“Uhm, Pardon me?” Sir Aaron spoke up, as the Riolu hopped up onto his paws and ran over to Ash’s leg. So, the little one was with the lad.

Ash turned to Sir Aaron, jaw still loose and slightly panicked, “You…you should be dead,” Realization shifted in his eyes, and then suddenly they appeared tired, a hand coming up to rub his face, “Why am I even surprised by this point?”

Alright not the first impression Sir Aaron had wanted, but he was going to make the most of it.

“Well, actually…” Sir Aaron paused, “I suppose you should be right. I am still getting used to the idea of being alive as well.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Ash raised a brow, as the Pikachu jumped up on to the lad’s shoulder.

“Well, uhm…” Talking shouldn’t have been this hard, “Let’s just say I wasn’t planning on returning.”

“So, we’re not dead, and I’m not insane?” Ash said.

“No,” Sir Aaron shook his head a little forcefully.

“Good…because I thought for a moment that everything has finally gotten to me,” Ash let out a strained laugh, “So why are you here?”

“olu?” the little pup exclaimed, rapidly swapping back and forth from looking at the knight and looking at the lad.

“It’s a long tale, one we might not have the time for. However, Mew was able to bring us back for the incoming threat,” Sir Aaron said.

“Incoming threat? Please don’t tell me the world is ending again,” Ash said, sounding unamused.

Again? Well, that wasn’t at all concerning.

“Pi Pikachu.”

“Hopefully we can prevent it. At least that is what Mew’s Partner said,” Sir Aaron explained.

Ash raised a brow, “Mew’s partner?”

“I’m not sure who he was. I have never even heard nor seen a Pokémon like he was, but he did seem to have many similarities with Mew,” Sir Aaron said.

And a personality problem. Lucario grumbled.

Ash’s brows suddenly furrowed, “Wait, did this Pokémon have long purple tail, violet eyes, was over 6 feet tall, and used telepathy?” he said with wild gestures.

“Uhm…yes. Are you familiar with him?” Sir Aaron raised a brow.

“Yeah, we’ve met. His name is Mewtwo. He killed me about six years ago,” Ash said, nonchalantly.

“Riolu!?!?”

The pikachu nodded and shrugged.

Ash!

Ash waved them off, “Don’t worry I got better. Besides it was kind of my fault. I rushed in front of his attack.”

Sir Aaron resisted the urge to flinch. Lord Arceus, please tell him that he didn’t pass on the self-sacrificing impulsiveness of his youth to this child. Oh, who was he jesting, there was a reason that most Aura Guardians died young.

Who was he fighting that you had to stop him? Lucario said wide eyed.

“Mew. Look it was a really big complicated mess, and it not the first time. I mean it was technically the first time-no wait there was that incident when that chandelier fell on my head and I was a ghost for a hot minute- but I’ve died since,” Ash said, nonchalantly.

Well, even if Ash hadn’t been trained. He was clearly living the life of an Aura Guardian. A life filled with constant danger and one in a million chances happening almost every fortnight. Just the fact that the boy was still alive, at the moment, was a miracle in itself.

“I am sorry,” Sir Aaron said, shaking his head.

“Why?” Ash said with a confused face.

Sir Aaron, sighed, “Aura users tend to attract the attention of powerful mythicals and legendries. Why this happens no one knows, but some believe that it is due to our ability to harness partial amounts of Arceus’s energy. It also why many of us die in childhood due to unusual circumstances, if untrained.”

“That actually explains a lot,” Ash said, blinking.

“I suspect your parents never had the gift of aura, did they?” Sir Aaron said.

“My mom? No, she’s a completely normal restaurant owner, and…Well, I can’t really speak for my grandparents, but I’m pretty sure they were normal,” Ash rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

“And of your father?” Sir Aaron asked.

Ash shrugged, “No, idea. He died when my mom was pregnant with me. I never knew him, and she doesn’t talk about him,” Pikachu nuzzled the boy’s cheek.

Sir Aaron suddenly felt sorrow for the boy. It was a sad fact of this world that death had broken many families. It was the duty of a father to protect and provide his family. However, sometimes it was impossible for a man to fill his role. Sir Aaron believed he had already missed his child’s life, his grandchildren’s, and all who came after. Now only Ash was left. He wouldn’t make the same mistake.

“Once more I should apologize, it is the duty of the elder users to teach their younger relatives. Clearly our bloodline has not honored that…”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, back up,” Ash interrupted, “Did you just say ‘our bloodline’?”

Sir Aaron nodded.

“We’re family…” Ash trailed off.

“You don’t seem that surprised,” Sir Aaron said cautiously.

“It’s not all that surprising. Heck, when we first met, Lucario mistook me for you,” Ash said, gesturing to the Aura Pokémon. The lad sighed, rubbing his temple.

“Are you alright?” Sir Aaron asked.

Ash just shrugged, “It’s not the weirdest revelation of my life.”

Honestly, Sir Aaron was thankful for the somewhat calm reaction Ash was having. The Knight knew that he probably wouldn’t have the same reaction to the situation at this age. However, clearly Ash was used to these types of things. Sir Aaron wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or not.

“ASH!”

A second boy fell out of the bushes behind them, along with another small Pokémon with large white ears. He had dark brown hair, a complexion that looked like grey ashes mixed with soil, and as he picked himself up from the ground, a pair of large soft blue eyes looked around.

The second lad took one look around and started shaking his head, “Nope, nope, nope! Leave me out of your raging insanity! Nooope!”

“Goh!” Ash called running after him, “Goh, Goh. Wait!”

“Ash! I have had to deal with you being kidnapped, poisoned and your obliviousness today! I draw the line at weird people in the middle of the woods!” The other boy, apparently named Goh, turned to the Aura guardians, “No offence.”

“Oh, come on! You can’t blame me for getting kidnapped,” Ash said, crossing his arms.

Goh just groaned and shook his head, “Ash was is going on?”

Goh’s face told Sir Aaron everything, the Knight didn’t even need to read his Aura. The disbelief and exhaustion that the second lad had felt was evident in his expression. The knight was between chuckling at and pitying the blue-eyed boy.

Goh groaned, rubbing his forehead, “Do you honestly expect me to believe this?!”

I can promise you that Ash and I share quite a history.

Goh eyes became wide as saucers and he jumped back, “He can use telepathy!?”

“Lucario is talented in many skills,” Sir Aaron said, before reaching out an offered hand in greetings, “Sir Aaron of Rota.”

Goh started to laugh, “You mean like the guy in those old children’s fairytales?” He looked to Ash, “Ash is this guy serious?” the look on Ash’s face said it all, and all amusement slipped off Goh’s, “Oh, you guys are serious.”

“Sorry?” Ash said.

“Why do you bring me into these things?”

“What things?”

“These kinds of things! The weird world-shattering things! I’ve only known you for a few months Ash and you have baffled me more than once! First it was Lugia! Then it was Riolu!” He gestured towards the little blue Pokémon at Ash’s side, “and now this!?”

“Olu?”

Sir Aaron and Lucario shared a glance. Clearly, these the two boys knew each other, to what extent the knight was unsure. They seemed to have shared many experiences, however, it hadn’t been enough to prepare Goh for this.

Excuse me. Lucario decided to speak up. I can promise you all we have told you is true.

Goh looked at Lucario suspiciously and grabbed a small flat red object from his back pocket, “Just to be sure,” Goh mumbled.

The red object made a high-pitched almost echoing sound and said, “Lucario the aura Pokémon and the evolved form of Riolu. A steel and fighting type. Sensing the auras that all beings emanate allow Lucario to read mind and predicts movements.”

Sir Aaron tried kept his face composed, but he felt his eyes widen. Curiosity and awe began to bubble inside of him. New discoveries and inventions always fascinated him. It had been his favorite part of his apprenticeship when he was a lad himself. His own master had brought a young Aaron on the journeys across the world and the rush of discovering something new was addicting to a child at twelve years of age.

“Okay yeah, not a psychic type,” Goh grumbled, completely missing Lucario’s suspicious glare towards the red object.

“He’s the real deal, Goh,” Ash said.

“And you met him, by releasing him from that guy’s magic staff and then pikachu was kidnapped by mew, which you did not tell you have met! Then you went to rescue pikachu and he died?” Goh said very slowly and strained.

“Well, you missed the part where I was eaten by a giant killer magic rock tree ameba but yeah,” Ash said.

“Pikapi,” Pikachu said, with his ears lowering.

“Riolu!?”

Goh just sighed, a hand coming up to rub his forehead, “You do realize how insane all this sounds?”

“Well, compared to the rest of my life? Not really,” Ash said.

“I wished I could say I was more shocked,” Goh groaned, “but considering we met on the back of a lugia, I guess I should have expected things were going to get weird with you.”

“Yeah, and apparently it normal for people like me,” Ash chuckled rubbing the back of his neck.

Goh looked to the apparently alive elder aura guardian, for confirmation.

“I am afraid it’s true. Aura users tend to attract more attention from mythicals and legendries,” Sir Aaron said.

Goh raised a brow at Ash, “So, Mew and lugia, huh?”

“Well, there were others,” Ash said, before listing off, “Diancie, Hoopa, Xerneas, Yveltal, Zekrom, Reshiram, Entei, Suicune…”

“Pika Pika!” Pikachu pointed his ears and pulled on his eyes.

“Celebi!” Ash said pointing to the mouse Pokémon.

Alright was the universe trying to get this lad killed? Even Sir Aaron hadn’t encountered all of the ones Ash was listing off, and he had seen quite a few in his time.

“Okay! I got it! I understand what’s going on,” Goh sighed, before turning to the others, “Now why are you here? Don’t tell me we’re in danger or something.”

That’s exactly why we’re here, Lucario deadpanned.

“Great,” Goh said, with much snark.

“Mew has freed us due to a more recent development,” Sir Aaron said.

“Let me guess,” Ash interjected, “Team Rocket?”

How did you know?

“Well, I was recently kidnapped and poisoned by them, less then and hour ago. Not to mention the woman who was in charge mentioned Aura users,” Ash said.

What?!

Ash shook his head, “Don’t worry I’m fine. Riolu and Goh got me out.”

“How are you so calm with this?” Goh asked.

“Goh my stalkers are part of this group. Those red ‘R’s I would recognize anywhere,” Ash said, “This really isn’t anything new.”

“Uhm...Stalkers?” Sir Aaron said mildly concerned.

Ash just waved it off, “Two nutcases, and their talking meowth. They’re nothing more than an annoyance these days.”

Really, Ash? Lucario raised a brow.

“You met them. Jessie, James, the talking meowth? They were in the tree with us,” Ash said.

The aura Pokémon looked to be grabbing at memories, trying to recall.

“You weren’t kidding when you said those guys have been following you since forever,” Goh mumbled.

Sir Aaron took a moment to try to understand the term ‘nutcase’ and how a meowth could talk, before shoving the thoughts out of his head. No time for that now, he had a much more important matters at hand.

“Merely an annoyance or not, they are clearly a different force then the rest of their allies,” Sir Aaron said, “And while you have managed to evade Team Rocket’s grasp, I’m afraid our fellow Aura user hadn’t shared your luck.”

“Wait, their going after other people now?” Ash said.

“Only Aura Users, but yes,” Sir Aaron said.

“Wait, wait, time out!” Goh chimed in, “Someone, namely me, is missing some very important context! What’s an Aura User?”

Sir Aaron was about to answer; however, Ash spoke first.

“You know the Move Aura Sphere?” Ash said.

“You want to talk about battles now?!” Goh nearly screamed.

Alright now the Knight was lost. Battles? What battles were they speaking of? Had an Aura war happened in his absence? He looked to Lucario, only to find that the Jackal Pokémon was just as confused.

“Just answer the question,” Ash said.

“Yeah, I’ve seen you and Riolu watch matches online, and in between your onomatopoeia and your stomach, you literally never talk about anything else,” Goh said.

“Well, it’s similar to that, but humans can use it and it can make shields and stuff. You got it?” Ash said.

“I’ll probably need a more detailed explanation later, but yeah I think I got it,” Goh rubbed his face tiredly, “So you can do that?”

“Technically yes, but I haven’t really done much with it,” Ash shrugged.

“And you never thought to mention this?” Goh raised a brow.

“It never came up until now,” Ash said.

“So why is team rocket now taking Aura users? Usually they’re only after powerful Pokémon, at least that’s what the three we’re used to are usually after,” Goh turned back to the others.

“According to mew they have recently uncovered old texts for a failed ritual to summon Arceus,” Sir Aaron said.

“Summon Arceus?” Ash gaped, sharing glances with the Pokémon on his shoulder and the one standing next to him.

“Failed Ritual? That means it doesn’t work right?” Goh asked.

“According to the historical texts, I’ve read,” Sir Aaron said, glancing at Lucario “Neither of us have witnessed it personally. However, they don’t know that.”

Not to mention the version they have is incomplete. Making it more volatile.

“So, they’re rounding up people like you and Ash?” Goh asked.

Sir Aaron nodded, “They need four. They already have one, a young man by the name of Riley.”

Ash’s eyes widened, “They got Riley?”

You know of him?

“Yeah, we met on Iron Island a few years back,” Ash said.

“Let me guess, it’s another long story that never came up?” Goh said.

“You have no idea,” Ash said.

“Pika Pikachu.”

“Okay,” Goh said, “you said they need four. Ash, you and this Riley. That’s only three.”

“Yeah, who’s number four?” Ash said.

All we know of her is her name.

“Which is…” Goh said.

“Amanda Gen, apparently she is Riley’s sister,” Sir Aaron said.

Goh pulled out the red object again and started to fiddle with it.

“Riley has a sister?” Ash muttered.

“Pikapi, pika pika.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right, no time to mention family when the island we were on was blowing up,” Ash said.

“The Island you were on was blowing up?” Sir Aaron said.

“Regular Friday for us, right?” Ash said, with a laugh, “Riley’s family too, isn’t he?”

Sir Aaron nodded, “I probably don’t have to explain that he’s your cousin.”

“Oh wait,” his dark eyes suddenly widened with realization, he pulled the satchel on his back off, and rummaged around in it, “I think these belong to you,” He pulled out a pair of blue gloves. Sir Aaron’s gloves.

Sir Aaron took them, silent surprise in his movements. How had Ash?

“Lady Ilene let me keep them, after everything,” Ash said swinging the satchel back onto his shoulder.

“I had been wondering what had happened to these,” Sir Aaron said.

“You just keep a dead guy’s gloves in your backpack?” Goh said, looking up from the red object, with a confused and slightly concerned face.

“Yeah,” Ash said.

“Ash that’s not normal,” Goh shook his head.

“Yeah, I’m weird. We’ve established that,” Ash deadpanned, “So, what’s google say?”

“All I’m getting is about a Professor Lorelei Gen, and maybe one or two articles about your Riley guy, nothing about an Amanda though,” Goh said, “Could be a relative, but you never know.”

Ash leaned in closer, looking at the red object, “Professor?”

“Yeah, she specializes in Pokémon genetics and how it relates to evolution. She also was a student under Professor Oak,” Goh said.

“You thinking Professor Cerise might know her?” Ash said.

“Maybe, but Ren can probably do a better internet search then me,” Goh said before shoving the red object back into his pocket, “We need to contact the lab. I don’t have a signal out here; we need to get closer to the resort.”

“Alright, let’s go,” Ash said.

“Ash, wait what about…” Goh gestured towards the Aura guardians.

“Calm down Goh. We’ll just say their LARPers.”

Chapter Text

Mew watched as the sun set over the wildlands, beyond her tree-shaped home. All around her she would hear the peaceful sounds, of a gentle breeze or Pokémon playing amongst themselves. Of course, some times those sounds weren't so peaceful, such as a storm or if an argument broke out. The latter of the two she'd have to sort out if it got too violent. However, other than that, it was calm and tranquil. Though the mythical couldn't help but wonder if this peace would last.

"Enjoying yourself?" Someone mentally said to her.

"As much as I can," She said in return, turning around to see her brother floating towards her, "What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be watching over them?"

"They are currently not in any danger. Besides there is something I've been meaning to ask you. Though it hadn't really been relevant until now."

"What?"

"You didn't tell him about her."

"Tell who about what?"

"Don't play coy. You know what I'm talking about."

"It doesn't matter now. He won't know her anyways."

"Yes, he will."

"What are you talking about?"

"Unlike Uxie, our memory altering abilities are not permanent. When Ash encountered me for the second time, the memory wipe I placed on him slowly crumbled. Once they come in contact your changes will begin to fade. They will remember."

"That might not happen."

"You know of the relationship she has with the boy, the boy that he is training. They will meet one way or another."

Mew whimpered. Unpleasant memories rushing to the fore front of her mind.

"Does he even know what you've done?" Mewtwo asked.

"No, I erased all memories. No one remembers what they had and no one other than them is alive to recollect."

"So, when they remember?"

"It will just be a recollection, like realizing where you put your keys last, simple as that," Mew paused, "How did you even know about this? You weren't even born when it happened."

"You're not the only one who runs into a Celebi every now and again."

Mew sighed, "Sometimes I wished those little things kept their mouths shut when it came to their gossiping."

"Well, you can't control everything. Why you do it?"

"A friend asked. She was scared, and just wanted to keep the ones she loved safe."

"No alternative motive?"

"I don't hate humans as much as you do, Two. I didn't want to do it, but it was for the peace. The Alpha's chosen would've waged war, if they had discovered what she had done. So, I summoned a Celebi to send her away, but not before rewriting what everyone thought was real."

"Including her?"

"She didn't want to remember what she would lose."

Lucario's ear twitched. The sounds of humans and Pokémon sleeping peacefully filling it. He silently closed his eyes and searched what Ash called a 'train car'. There were many unfamiliar auras surrounding him and the others, but all of them were calm. Subdued with sleep. Including the ones in the same booth as him. Satisfied that they were safe, he opened his piercing red eyes and recounted the day's events.

He looked towards the younger Aura user. Ash seemed to be doing well for himself since they had last seen each other. Recently he had taken a job underneath a man known as Professor Cerise. Lucario didn't know what Professor was. Though he did guess it was some kind of title, where it fell among the ranks of nobility, he wasn't sure. Clearly high enough to employ people to work under him. Although he wasn't sure what Ash was doing while working at the Professor's lab; the lad's explanation not being very forth coming when asked.

As for the Professor himself, from what Lucario could hear from the strange device (which knew a little bit too much in his opinion, and shouldn't be trusted) that Goh used to talk to his employer, the human seemed confused at first but quickly accepted the odd circumstances. Even offering the Aura Pokémon and Guardian shelter and assistance with the situation. Either he was a very patient man, or was used to weird things.

His eyes wandered from the lad to the Pokémon who were sleeping on top of him. Pikachu and the Pup. The yellow mouse, was doing well as far Lucario could tell. Just by looking at the way that Pikachu could fall asleep on top of Ash's head showed how much trust the two shared, even if Lucario hadn't really know the lighting wielder for long.

As for the pup...Lucario had several questions.

Said pup was currently cuddled up to Ash's leg, his small blue head using the lad's thigh as a pillow, with mouth wide open, snoring lightly. Any average user could sense that the pup was compatible with Ash's aura, much like the grown jackal Pokémon and Sir Aaron were. There was a reason why most guardians had chosen to work with his species, whether they be adults or still in pup form. Lucario wasn't at all surprised to learn that Ash had found a pup.

However, that did leave the question. Where did the pup come from? Most of the pups were raised at the Aura Temple in Hisui. There they were trained until an auratic match was found, and then they were sent off with that compatible user. Either that or they were wild and had been stumbled upon by a user or someone who was in allegiance with the guild. However, Lucario doubted that the former was the case for Ash's Riolu. Not only did Hisui not exist anymore, but this pup was far too young. The jackal Pokémon wasn't the best when it came to guessing ages, but he could tell that this pup was barely a month out of the shell. The riolu at the Aura Temple were at least kept there for a year with their mothers before being sent off. Which then begged another important question.

Where was this Pup's mother? Sure, if this pup was born in the wild (which Lucario suspected), getting separated wouldn't have been a too farfetched of a theory. Being a lost pup himself once, he knew that this possibility was a sad reality. Even if this was the case, why wasn't the mother looking for her pup? When Lucario lost his mother, he had already learned to defend himself even if it was still considered to be an early separation, meaning his mother had no reason to go after him. But Ash's pup? Lucario was just grateful that the little one had found the young aura user, before anything bad happened.

Something shifted in the corner of his eye, putting the aura Pokémon on high alert. Lucario's gaze darting over towards the movement, only to find Goh twitching in his sleep. Ah, yes Ash's latest travel companion. Lucario wasn't sure what to think of the lad. Sure, he was working with Ash for Professor Cerise, which made the aura Pokémon respect him slightly considering the trouble Ash could get himself in (the boy's Aura flaring with restrained panic, disbelief, confusion, exhaustion, and irritation said everything). Besides Lucario trusted Ash's judgement when it came to his companions. Even if they were being followed around by a moody, Rabbit Pokémon.

As for what happened to the others friends Ash had. Lucario was shocked to learn that May, Max and Brock had gone their separate ways (he wasn't too surprised about Kidd), the group seemed to be very tight knit. Though he understood why. May went on to follow a dream of being a coordinator (whatever that was), and Max, still being young, had to go with his sister. While Brock ended up returning back to his home to study, in order to become some kind of healer if he understood Ash's explanation correctly. An honorable trade to pursue in Lucario's opinion.

Finally, he looked to his master. Sir Aaron was currently leaning against the window of the train car, fast asleep. His hat had fallen off, revealing the spiky head of hair the knight had, the reason as to why he wore said hat. Now, looking at Ash without his hat, Lucario (even with Pikachu sleeping on it) could tell that this was a family trait. However, Miss Emily never seemed to have the same issues, though whether or not her hair had been just as wild was still debated as she always wore it in tight restrictive braided knots that were pinned to her head.

The pair of red eyes, slowly drifted towards the window. The pale moon riding the horizon. At least it was still the same in this century. Of course, the lack of star light was still concerning, (Goh had said it was due to light pollution, and that they'd see more once the train left the resort station). A sinking feeling in Lucario's stomach made itself known to him. Whether it was fear or anxiety he wasn't sure, but he was not fond of it. Perhaps the idea of being trapped centuries away from his own time was just now starting to settle in his mind. Along with the heavy realization that he knew very little about the world now.

Last time he was conscious during this era, he had been too wrapped up in his own anger and pain to notice the drastic differences. Now, it felt like they were practically standing in front of him. The giant buildings (the modern-day inn he had seen was larger than Cameran Palace itself), the technology, not mention the culture.

Lucario knew not to use telepathy in a crowd of strangers, the chance of someone accidentally over hearing him wasn't something he wanted to risk. Sure, he could only speak to one person if he wanted, but it was just easier and less invasive to either not say anything or merely speak to people who were in a certain radius from him. This had been the best decision as it turns out. Due to his species still being native to the area (that hadn't changed apparently), no one really paid much mind to him. Pikachu said that they probably just assumed that his trainer, not that he had one, believed in 'free range training'.

For Sir Aaron, however, the same couldn't have been said. He probably got the most stares out of their group. Even with Pikachu riding on Ash's head. Though, once the lad said he was a LARPer and forgot his other clothes, they seemed to write him off. However, Lucario wasn't really sure if being called a 'LARPer' was a good thing or not due to the mixed expressions the starers gave.

The small device that Goh was apparently called a phone. Why it was called that? He didn't know. However, it was apparently like an endless book, as well as a modern version of the crystals that he and Sir Aaron had used to communicate back in the past. Of course, people didn't need aura to use them.

The Aura Pokémon sighed; this wasn't his world. Though, there was no going back now. While Sir Aaron might have been in the same situation, Lucario knew his master would most likely approach this scenario with an explorer's curiosity rather than mournfully. Which was understandable, he knew that the knight always held a passion for the unknown, though he also knew that eventually some kind of grief would befall his master. Even if Sir Aaron would never show it.

Red eyes glanced over to the humans and fellow Pokémon he was seated with. Well, at least he wasn't alone this time and he knew these were companions he could trust. Companions that were in danger due to team rocket. As such Lucario went back to his duty of keeping a look out for the rest of the night.

But if the movement of the train had lulled the Aura Pokémon into a slumber less then fifteen minutes later, he would forever deny it.

The loud sounds of heavy traffic rang on the right, but she didn't pay them any mind. Being from a big city this wasn't anything she wasn't used to. A gloved hand, pulled down the hood of her jacket. Sure, she was wearing a pair of sunglasses, but she still felt like people could still see her face.

"Bree?"

She looked down at the black four-legged Pokémon that was walking beside her. Umbreon's red eyes looking up at her with concern. The expression was a common occurrence on the dark type's face. She reached down and rubbed her partner's head, but it didn't change the Pokémon's wary look.

"Do you see anyone?" She asked.

Umbreon nodded.

"Are they watching?"

Head shake.

"Okay, we cross the street here."

They darted across the street, quickly, but not so fast that it looked suspicious. She turned her head towards them, the men in dark grey suits with 'R' printed on their shirts, seeing they had turned away. She couldn't let them see her. She had to blend in. Be invisible. Easier said than done, with what she was about to do.

The alley was thin, barely enough room for the dumpsters that sat on the left, but she didn't care for the trash right now. It was the chain-link fence that formed the back wall that held her attention. Slipping into the alley was easy. Now came the hard part. She put her brown sack on the ground, and pulled out a flash drive and black fabric facemask.

"Stay here keep watch," She ordered putting on the mask. Umbreon nodded.

She gripped the fence. The coarse metal wires tugged at her leather gloves and boots. Her ascent was far from silent, the fence jingling with every movement made. It took a minute and a few scratches to swing her leg over the barbed wire at the top, but it was worth the ruined jeans. She dropped to the ground in a squat, stumbling slightly as she stood back up.

Looking around her was an open supply yard. Piles of crates and boxes littered the paved field around her. Behind the number of heavy stacks of packed supplies (or maybe they were empty for all she knew), was the outline of a factory. Well at least it looked like a factory from the outside. She started running. She kept to the side of each pallet of crates. Pressing her back against the boxes of sanded wood. Turning her head to checked behind her every so often.

Finally, she made to the end of the yard. Staying crouched next to a rather large stack of crates she scanned the back wall of the factory. However, she wasn't looking for a door. No, that would be too obvious. Doors were rigged with fire alarms; doors were watched with cameras pointed at them. The last thing she needed what being filmed again. No, her target wasn't the obviously rigged door. Rather it was the seam of gunmetal grey in the corner of the boring beige back wall. A drain pipe.

A gloved hand reached up to her hood, pulling the fabric close to her neck open. A small ball of lemony fuzz, with large black tipped ears popped out from inside the hood. The tiny mouse Pokémon rubbed his big black eyes and then looked up at her.

"Wakey wakey," She whispered, "You remember what to do?"

"Pichu!"

"Good, now just like we practiced."

The small yellow mouse Pokémon leapt from her shoulder, and ran across the pavement towards the building. Pichu entered the nearest drain pipe and climbed up it until he reached the roof. She couldn't see where exactly the yellow mouse ended up, but she knew that he was now looking for a way to enter the building. Be it through an open window or some kind of vent. Just like they practiced.

And that practice bore its fruit the moment that a nearby vent opened from the inside.

With one glance to the security cameras, making sure they were turned away, she leapt forward. Dashing across the pavement like her Pokémon had done just a few moments ago, and diving into the vent that Pichu held open for her. The little yellow mouse let it close behind her before scurrying passed her and nesting back in her jacket's hood.

"Good job," she whispered.

Pichu just smiled.

Phase one: complete. Now for phase two.

Crawling through the vents might have seemed like a hard task, but on the contrary, it was easier than she expected. If she ignored the enclosed suffocating metal walls, that made her feel like she needed to duck her head down even if she was already crawling on her belly, and the way that every time she moved the sound seemed to echo louder than a screech attack, then she was fine. Getting lost wasn't a worry as she had downloaded the building specs on to her phone before arriving, making navigating the metallic maze an easy task.

It took a few minutes of tunneling through the vent shafts before she found her destination. Through the thin slices of the vent grate, she could see into the room below her. Inside was the IT station, which included the rather large generator and the main computer system. With gloved hands she slowly undid the screws on the vent opening.

Once they were loose, she turned to her little yellow companion, "You need to cut power to security systems. It's the green wire for the motion sensors and then the red one for the cameras. We won't have to worry about the others if those two are out."

"Pichu!" He nodded and leapt through the opened vent.

It wasn't long until she heard him call out that his task was done. That it was safe.

She fully opened the vent and fell to the tile floor in a crouch. Her boots squeaked on the polished tiled floor as she ran over to the main computer.

"Watch the door."

"Pi!"

She sat at the desk top. The set up was cheap. The monitor was bulky and on the older side, and the keyboard was unclean with keys that sticked, but she couldn't be picky right now. There was a password needed to gain access to it, but luckily someone had left a written copy of it on the desk just to left of the key board. Most of the files were encrypted because of course they were, but she would worry about them later. She opened the few that she could, and turned up almost nothing. Just supply inventory, delivery schedules, things like that. Nothing of much interest to her. Then she found a list of names. At first one might think they were of customers or suppliers, but it was far too short for that, and it certainly wouldn't have her own name on it.

"Amanda M. Gen."

"Riley A. Gen."

"Ash S. Ketchum."

She frowned, even if she should be celebrating. Her hunch had been right. This place was a team rocket facility, and she could find the information she needed, but it also solidified reality. This was a list of targets. She was being hunted by a terrorist organization. Wonderful. If they had found her and Riley, had they found the twins as well? Sure, they weren't users as far as she knew, but she hadn't thought herself one until a few weeks ago.

"Thank you," she said to the vender, as she took the three ice-cream cones.

"It's no problem, Amanda, I'm just glad I still have one regular after all these years," Thaduious said, "The neighborhood has gone through so many changes. Everyone so worried about how much their food is worth and how many likes it will get them on those phones."

"Shame," Amanda said.

"It is."

"Well, you have once customer for life right here."

"Bless you and your father's heart. He used to point so many to my stand, it's a shame what happened to him. He'd be proud to hear you take after him."

She looked to the ground, a vice grip squeezing at her heart, "I hope he is. See you later Thaduious."

"Anytime kid. You're always welcome here."

Amanda turned away from the ice-cream stand, and started through the heavy crowd of pedestrians. The side walk was loud with clacking footsteps, the cars passing by on the nearby street and people talking, either with each other or on their phones. An overwhelming situation for anyone who wasn't used to the hustle and bustle of a big city.

Eventually she made it to the park. The walkways while not as packed as the city sidewalks, were still busy. She had to dodge small children on scooters and trikes, teenagers on skateboard or rollerblades, and adults that were just walking. Not to mention the number of Pokémon that accompanied each.

On a bench up ahead of her were two young boys about the age of seven. They looked nearly identical to one another. They both possessed pale skin, blue eyes, and dark hair that when cut short had a spiky aspect to it. They both laid on the bench in a similar manner reading two copies of the same book. The only difference between the two them was that one of them had a gibble snuggled up to his side and the other had an eevee on his head.

"Constance! Carter!" Amanda called out, "How about an ice-cream break!"

Both boys looked up at her. Their smiles similar and eyes brightening identically. They both sat up and made space for their sister to sit between them.

"Two vanillas, no toppings," She handed each boy a cone, and kept the chocolate one for herself.

"Thanks Mandy," Constance said.

"Thank you," Carter said at the same time as his twin.

"No problem. Eat up," Amanda said.

"You know you wouldn't have to leave us with Umbreon if you just took us to your secret ice-cream spot," Constance said.

"Yeah, why can't we come with you?" Carter said.

"Mother already doesn't want the two of you hanging out with me. She wouldn't even allow us these two hours of free time, if she knew I was taking you to get ice-cream from a stand and not a proper parlor," She explained.

"Why?" Constance said.

"Yeah, this taste better than anywhere else," Carter said, "And it was dad's favorite right?"

"You know how mother feels about dad," Amanda said.

"Why? He was our dad," Constance said.

"You'll understand when you older," Amanda said.

"We can understand now! We're smart! We're already doing algebra!" Carter said.

"It's grown-up stuff you two. No amount of studying will help you understand that. You can only just get older. Okay?" Amanda said.

"Okay," Both of the twins groaned and went back to eating their cones.

The park might have been busy, with many people around them and the twins were still in their school uniforms, which were from a very recognizable and prestigious academy. So, Amanda should have written off the feeling of being watched, but she didn't, and it had been a good thing she didn't. If she turned her head to the right a little, she could see two people both dressed in dark trench coats and they made her stomach sink with dread. Listening to her gut, she had Umbreon and Pichu take the twins home the long way, and took the short path herself.

The strangers followed her. Part of her was relieved that they weren't going after the boys, but that didn't mean she was completely at ease. She started to take random turns. Always going for the most crowded sidewalks, but they stayed on her tail like a combee on a nectar filled flower. Slowly getting closer and closer. Maybe it was curiosity or she was just being reckless, but she turned into an empty alley, determined to confront them. As avoiding them wasn't working.

"Alright what do you want?" She said to them.

"Amanda Gen?" One of them, a woman with orange hair, spoke.

"If I am, why are you following me?" She said, taking note of two more suspiciously dressed individuals entering the alley from the other side, blocking her in, "If it's for ransom, you won't get anything out of my egg doner for me."

"Oh, no. Miss Gen we're not here for money," the woman said.

"Oh, yeah, what for then?" Amanda didn't miss one of the people behind her sneak closer, hands slowly reaching out to grab her.

"What do you know about Aura?" The woman asked.

Amanda gritted her teeth, "Aura? I've heard of it. You got the wrong Gen if you want to know more though."

"Oh, we are well aware of you brother's ability. Gifted really, your family is. To think two of their kids ends up with magic powers and the others are academic progenies," The woman said.

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Amanda said.

"Oh, please honey. You're good at lying but you're not that good. You see things, feel things that no one else can. It's not as evident at your brother's powers but they're there. Now you're going to be a good little girl and come with us."

"Four people I don't know surround me in an alley and ask me to come with them. Do you think I'm stupid? Hell, no."

The woman laughed, "Oh, sweetie, we already have your brother and he was trained and had his Pokémon with him. Taking you will be an easy task for us."

The woman snapped her fingers, and one of the people behind Amanda reached out and grabbed her arm, twisting it into her back and used the other grab her face. His hand covering the 18-year-old's mouth.

Amanda felt her heart start to race, but she didn't panic. These guys had Riley? Clearly the wanted something to do with Aura. There was no other reason as to why they would've taken him. She would not let them take her. She shook her head, and managed to reposition the hand covering her mouth low enough to bite it. Her teeth sinking into the flesh just between the thumb and the rest of the hand, right on the pain point. Her captor screamed, and let go of her face. She then swung her head backward into his hopefully breaking his nose. She managed to twist her arm out of his grip by then.

The other one that had been behind her, came at her swinging. However, Amanda just ducked, sending one hand flying at his face to make him flinch, but never actually hitting him and then sending her dominate hand up and striking him just below his nose. Said hand then hooked his shoulder and pulled him down as she thrusted her knee into his stomach. Amanda took off down the alleyway before either the woman or the other man had a chance to grab her again.

Never in her life had Amanda been more thankful for her long legs. She had always been fast. It's one of the reasons as to why she had played sports when she was younger. Now though it was a needed survival skill, as she could hear poke balls activating behind her. It was only a matter of moments until she was pursued by a raticate and a hounddoom.

The Pokémon were fast. Faster than a human, but they didn't know the streets. Amanda used her home-team advantage to the fullest, ducking into side roads, and shortcuts hoping to lose them. it put distance between them, but that wouldn't last for long.

The chase took them into a busy intersection. Amanda knew it was a risk but she was growing desperate, and adrenaline, while a hell of a drug, wouldn't last forever. She ran right through the middle of the intersection, cars blew their horns and stopped just short of hitting her. The Pokémon however just used the trucks and other vehicles as structures for higher ground. The hounddoom, leaped from the top of one of the trucks and pinned her to the ground. Their teeth in her face as they snarled at her.

Amanda then, only then, truly began to panic. The raticate quickly joined the hounddoom, their long tail wrapping around her kicking legs holding them still. That didn't stop the young woman from struggling even further. Gasps and shouting from surrounding people could be heard, but Amanda didn't scream. Not yet. Eventually she managed to yank one of her arms free. She remembered raising her hand to push the hounddoom off of her, but before she could do that a bright blue glow flooded her vision.

She felt the pressure of the Pokémon holding her down being ripped away. Without thinking she scrambled to her feet and started running again. Ignoring her own bafflement and the gasps of people around her.

One of them even saying, "Did you see that?"

The chase began again, only this time. She took them to the Gateway Bridge. Gateway Bridge, was the entrance to the countryside homes on the coastal side of Ryme City, hence the name. Only the rich and powerful could afford to live there, but anyone could cross the bridge. It consisted of a simple concrete bridge that was a two-way street with a side walk on either side. The railings were a series of concrete arches that were topped with a rough slab of marble that came up to her hips. Down below was one of the rivers that flowed into the bay a few miles away.

She ran onto the bridge, darting down the side walk, and climbing up on the railing once she reached the center of the it. The Pokémon stopped their chase at the side walk in front of her, not daring to try and tackle her now that she was so close to the edge. This turned into a stared down and eventually the kidnappers caught up to them.

"Now, now, honey," The woman said cautiously, "It's over. You just need to come with us. No need to jump to your death. I promise you'll be part of something beautiful."

"You're trying to kidnap me and those earrings are ridiculous! So, forgive me if I don't agree with your opinion of beauty!"

"You brat! Get down from there now! You're coming with us now!"

Amanda looked down at the river below. She needed to get these psychos off her scent.

Now.

She looked back at them, her face determined, "No."

She jumped. Not bothering to listen to the woman screaming after her. Amanda's body fell back into its instinct. Straitening and adjusting her hands just right to allow her to enter the water painlessly. It was a 10-meter drop, but she had fallen from that height into a pool many times during her diving team days. She hit the rapids with a small splash, and let herself flow down the river for a moment. The water's cold sending a shock of shivers down her body. She twisted herself once submerged, until the current pressed against the side of her body. Then she began to swim towards the river bank.

Amanda dragged herself on to dry land. Her body now exhausted and all forms of sound lost to her. She leaned against a nearby tree, catching her breath and replaying the recent events in her head. She swallowed and stared at her shaking hands; she had used aura. She'd have recognized that blue glow anywhere. Oh Arceus, this had to have been a mistake. She couldn't be an aura user. Amanda let her hands drop into her lap and shook her head. She couldn't stay here. Not in Ryme City at least. Whoever those people were, they weren't going to stop coming after her. She needed to disappear. And if that woman had been telling the truth, get her brother out of whatever trouble he had gotten himself in.

Amanda sighed, she had packed her things and left that very night. Searching for her brother and answers, eventually learn the name of the people behind her almost kidnapping. Team Rocket. They really couldn't come up with something better than that?

She shook her head, and went back to the task as hand. Amanda pulled the flash-drive from a hidden pocket inside of her glove, and quickly plugged it into the computer's USB port. She downloaded every file she could find.

"Pichu!"

She turned to the little yellow mouse; his ear pressed against the closed door. Someone was coming. In a flash she pulled the drive, grabbed her tiny companion and climbed back into the vent system. She quietly shuffled back through the long metal tunnels. They would eventually find all the wires Pichu pulled, but she hoped to be long gone by the time they did.

Escape was easier. In the end she had the needed data, and a free pair of ripped jeans.

Amanda left for the forest outskirts of town. She swapped glasses and inverted her jacket, before walking with Umbreon watching her back as they journeyed through the streets, and eventually the dirt roads outside of the city.

She had one gloved hand on the strap of her backpack, and the other stuffed into her jacket pocket, as she approached the RV that was parked in between the forest's trees and bushes. The vehicle was maybe fifteen years old by this point, and needed a good scrub, but for the past few weeks it had been home. It was one of the last things that Amanda's father had left her when he died. The retired Pokémon Ranger hadn't had much wealth when he passed away, only a few personal items that he had left to his children. One of them being the camper he had used when he took Amanda and Riley on camping trip when they were younger. Oh, how had those days been simpler.

Amanda opened the door and climbed in. Inside behind the driver's seat, was a small couch, and breakfast table with benches on one side, while a counter with a kitchenette including a microwave and mini-fridge were on the other side. The door to the tiny bathroom, was on the right side and in the very back was the bedroom. A ladder was between the driver's cabin and tiny living room that led to a small loft that was about the drivers' seat.

She closed the door, and leaned against, sighing deeply. Umbreon and Pichu jumped on to the small sofa, and stretched out. Amanda dropped her back pack on the counter before rummaging through the cabinets, pulling out the feeding bowls and Pokémon feed. She set out three bowls and filled them. Umbreon and Pichu went to their respective meals, while Amanda pulled a third pokeball from her belt and let Roserade join the others.

Amanda left for the RV's tiny bathroom while her Pokémon ate. She took off her clothing, and wet a rag to rub herself down before changing into an oversized worn t-shirt and soft pajama pants. She washed away the makeup on her face, and pulled off the red headed wig she had been wearing. Relief flooded her scalp once that itchy thing was off, and her own black-almost navy-hair could flow freely again. Next, she took off the colored contacts that made her grey eyes look green, and put on her normal pair of blue rimmed glasses. Leaning against the sink, she could see how dark the bags under her eyes had gotten. Arceus, she really was pathetic, wasn't she? Grey eyes drifted to something metallic and shiny on the tiny shelf on the side wall. Temptation knocking on the back door of her mind...

"Bree?" Amanda heard her partner squeak through the door, while scratching at it lightly.

Amanda shook her head, clearing her mind from those thoughts, before for leaving the bathroom. Umbreon was waiting for her on the other side. The black Pokémon's red eyes shining with concern at first, but then she rubbed her side against her trainer's legs. Amanda reached down and stroked the eeveelution's head, feeling the Pokémon's purr underneath her palm.

Casing a glance towards the couch, she could see that Pichu and Roserade had already fallen asleep. The grass and electric types curled up together on the same throw pillow. A small smile reached her lips, as she grabbed one of the small blankets on the back of the sofa and tucked the two small Pokémon in with it. After that it was time to get to work.

Amanda grabbed a small bowl and filled it with almonds that were coated in dark chocolate. One of her favorite comfort foods, and she felt she had earned it after what she did today. Then she turned to momentarily forgotten backpack, and pulled out her personal laptop and the flash-drive she used earlier that day.

Well, tried to grab the flash drive anyway. Amanda Froze when she felt a soft fluffy ball resting the bag. She unzipped the bag further, finding a ball of brown fluffy fur. Very familiar brown fluffy fur.

"Eevee?" Amanda said.

A round head with big brown eyes uncurled from the rest of the Pokémon it belonged to, "Vee?"

"What are you doing here? Mother will be ticked to find out you left the reserve. You know you were a part of her next big research paper," Amanda said.

"Bree," Umbreon, chided the younger Pokémon.

"Vee." Eevee's ears drooped.

Amanda sighed, but picked up the whimpering Pokémon, "I know you don't like Mother's interest in you. I don't either, don't get me wrong, but you're playing with fire. Once she realizes your gone, she will send someone after you."

"Eevee."

Amanda sighed, "But until then you can stay with me."

"Vee!"

"What? You thought I was going to send you back? No way. Us misfits got to stick together."

Amanda knew the reason behind why Eevee left her family's reserve. Eevee was the only member of her clutch who hadn't evolved yet. This wasn't that strange at first glance as she also was the only one of them who hadn't been picked by a trainer. What made Eevee so interesting was the fact that evolution stones didn't work on her either. That made her something an object of interest in Amanda's mother's eyes. Something that was worth the great Professor Gen's attention. And Amanda knew from experience that was never a good thing.

Poor Eevee had spent the past weeks locked up in the labs downtown, only allowed to return to the reserve on the weekends. Somehow the little brown fuzzy ball had gotten very attached to Amanda during the time she had at the reserve. Even if the time they had together was short, as Eevee would always need to return to the labs and Amanda had to upkeep her studying if she wanted to stay in her mother's good enough graces to be allow to live in her childhood home. Though Amanda had no idea as to why the normal type liked to hang out with her. The most plausible theory Amanda had was Eevee wanted to spite Professor Gen, by favoring the person that Amanda's mother disliked the most.

Apparently, that drive to spite the elder Gen was enough to all but runaway with the younger heiress. This was probably why Amanda didn't even care that this meant she'd have to run from her mother's lackeys as well as a terrorist organization. Eevee was like her, a little rebel with spunk. And even if she wasn't Eevee's trainer, the human girl couldn't turn the normal type away

"Come on, let's see what we got," She whispered to Umbreon and Eevee, nodding for them to follow her.

She climbed onto the RV's main bed. Umbreon leaping up and lying next to Amanda, resting her black head in her trainer's lap and Eevee curled up next to the elder. The human put down the almond snack on the other side from where Umbreon rested. One of her hands ran its fingers through the dark fur on the Pokémon's head, while the other plugged in the flash drive and opened up the laptop that was resting against her knees.

Doing a more thorough search through the data she had stolen, only proved that most of the files that she needed were heavily encrypted. The one she had access to now being mostly useless to her. The files ranged from easy encryptions that would take a few hours to heavy ones that could take weeks. Sure, she could whip up a code that could decrypt some of the files for her, but coding something like that will take time. Time, one of the many resources she didn't really have.

She couldn't stay here for much longer. Being constantly on the move is what had been keeping her free. Jumping from place to place, never staying somewhere for more than a couple days. She wouldn't have much time in between places to work on it, and frankly she probably couldn't afford to make that many other trips. Fuel wasn't cheap, and she was running out of money. Going on foot was always an option, but she didn't want to leave the safety of the RV. The only safe place she had had for a long time.

She took a deep breath. Focus on the present. Focus on the present. Focus on the present.

What could she do right now?

The list.

Amanda opened the file. Taking a closer look at it, she could see names other than her brother's and hers, but they had been marked in red. The scarlet lines cutting straight through the black letters. The only names that were left unmarked were, hers, Riley's (but his had a green check next to it), and one more.

"Ash S. Ketchum."

Amanda hummed, the gears in her head starting to turn and churn. Ideas beginning to bubble up in her mind. She shrunk down the downloaded data, and opened up a search engine. Looking up the name, and letting her inner detective drive her search forward.

"Ash Ketchum," Amanda mumbled to herself, "Pokémon trainer...Reasonable level of success in tournaments...Mysterious Bond phenomenon Greninja..." She hummed, "Where are you now?"

Her fingers clicked on the thin delicate keys of her keyboard, and smirked. She rubbed Umbreon's head again.

"We're hitting the road again, girls. This time we're going to Kanto."

Chapter Text

So, a professor was some kind of scholar. That's was Lucario deduced upon meeting Professor Cerise. As this man in front of him was certainly not a military leader in anyway. With his thin white coat, pair of purple spectacles and overall diminished stature, that much was clear.

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Professor Cerise said, shaking Sir Aaron's hand.

"I can say the same Professor," Sir Aaron said, "And I must thank you again. I know taking us in must be burden on your work here."

"Oh, pff," Professor Cerise waved him off, "It's not a problem really. This was built to have more staff but we haven't really hired anyone else yet. So, we have the space. Besides if someone is threatening one of my employees, I'd like to have the expert on the situation close by. Which you will probably have to better explain now that we can have a face-to-face conversation."

"I'll explain best to my ability however even I'm afraid that Mew wasn't fore coming with her own explanation," Sir Aaron said.

"Well, no one's perfect," Professor Cerise said before turning to Ash and Goh, "So, that's the giant Magikarp?"

"It's simple humongous!" Exclaimed a younger man with blond hair and spectacles.

"But apart from its size it seems like a normal Magikarp," Spoke a blue haired woman.

Their coats were similar to that of professor Cerise's. A students or fellow professors perhaps? Lucario wasn't really sure how this new hierarchy worked. Professor Cerise was clearly the one in charge of this manor. However what purpose did these two, serve? They were both younger than Professor Cerise, that made him think they were lower in status compared to him. But the coats spoke otherwise. The future was confusing.

"Ri olu (yeah, too bad we can't eat it)" Spoke the pup.

Raboot and Pikachu looked at Riolu oddly.

"Boot Ra Raboot (of course you would think that)" she said.

Pikachu just blinked.

The Magikarp suddenly jumped up high out of the water. Breaking through what must have been a very expensive glass roof and then crashing back down into the lake. A wave of water rose up and drenched all the adult humans and, sadly, Lucario. Though, out of the corner of his eye he saw Ash and Goh running away.

The jackal Pokémon suppressed a growl of discomforted. His fur was now completely soaked through. Wetter then wet. He hated when his fur was wet. Sure, it was fine if it was just his paws, but he felt awful when it was his full coat. It started out refreshing in this case, as the water was cooling, but he knew that it would warm as it dried. Making his fur uneven, along with causing his skin to feel sticky and itch relentlessly. Hopefully these humans had some future form of a towel to make the process quicker.

Professor Cerise coughed, taking his spectacles off and attempting to dry them on his wet coat before realizing it was futile, "Nice bellyflop I'm impressed."

"He certainly reached new heights," Sir Aaron said wringing out his hat.

"I'm going get some towels and spare clothes," the blue haired woman said, before turning to Sir Aaron, "Any preferences?"

"Oh, no. Whatever you have with be alright madam," Sir Aaron said.

"So, you guys are like related?" The blond asked, "Like thousands of years apart relatives?"

"That's what Mew has led me to believe," Sir Aaron said, while Ash shrugged.

"That's pretty wild considering how much you both look alike. I mean sure, Ash is more tanned and your eyes don't match, but your noses are very similar," The Blond rambled.

Ash and Sir Aaron shared a smile.

"Alright! Ren, I get you're excited!" Goh chimed in, "But we do have team rocket deal with. Were you guys able to find anything on Professor Gen?"

"Right, Right," Professor Cerise said, "Uhm...Gen...Gen. It rang a bell for me when I you told me over the phone, I just wasn't sure where I heard it from. Then you mentioned Professor Oak and things started to click. She was studying under Oak at the same time as me, but I was starting while she was in her last year, so I can't say we were close."

"So, what do you know about her?" Ash said.

"She was hard working, very smart, but very secretive. I know that she had been working with Eevee genetics, but that's all I know. Last I heard was that she had funding elsewhere so she left to further her research there," Professor Cerise said.

"Was she married or had any children?" Sir Aaron asked.

"Not sure about any kids, but I know she was engaged when she left," Professor Cerise said, "It had been such hot gossip around the lab that everyone talked about it. None of us even knew that she was dating someone."

"When was this?" Goh asked.

"I was in my early teens, so about 30 years ago," Professor Cerise answered.

"How old was Riley, Ash?" Goh looked to his friend.

"I mean I didn't really get a chance to ask him, but I'd say maybe twenties. He was definitely an adult by the time we met," Ash said rubbing the back of his neck.

"Time line would match up then if Professor Gen is his mom," Goh said, "But that could just be a coincidence."

"Maybe we should take this inside," Professor Cerise said, "With the roof broken who knows what drone could fly in here and listen."

Sir Aaron would be lying if he said that the young child inside of him wasn't jumping with excitement when they exited the train to see a modern-day city. The town above had been quite different from the small village that used to stand in its place all those centuries ago. Everything seemed so foreign. It was hard to believe that it had once been so small that most travelers would pass it up. Sir Aaron only ventured in it to...to...Well he couldn't remember why, but it must have been important as he would have no other reason.

The manor that Ash's employer owned was something out of a story book. The large crystal glass dome, perfectly cut bricks and overall outward appearance spoke of wealth and stature. Clearly resources such as these in the future days were not just reserved for royalty or nobles. Still some other buildings in Vermillion weren't as large as the laboratory so perhaps there was still a difference between the ranks of Professors and their workers and the commonfolk. It seemed as if his descendent had done well for himself to stay in such a place.

Inside was just as magnificent. The varnished wooden floors, smooth painted walls and metal contraptions that sparked even more questions that, if he were still young, would be flowing out of his mouth like a flooding river in a storm. But it had been many years since he was child, and it was not the place nor time to do so. He held his tongue for now, but logged each one he had in his mind to ask later.

Professor Cerise was not the elderly wise men or grey scholar that Sir Aaron had expected. Instead, the knight had been greeted by a man who was probably just a few years his elder. This made Sir Aaron wonder just that type of training was needed in order for one to achieve the title of professor and how long it usually took. The only kind of scholars that Sir Aaron knew a great deal about were the Aura Sages who stayed in the libraries in the Hisui Temple.

Once a young user completed their basic control training, they were given three options. To train either as a Guardian, Sage, or Healer. Sages studied Aura, being it be the history of the magical energy or the innerworkings of it, and they rarely ever left their Libraries. Healers ran the hospitals and cared for the riolu or other Pokémon on the grounds. They only left the temples when they're skills were needed by civilians during disasters and wars or when requested by royals. Guardians were the most mobile and the reason as to why all users were called Guardians by the non-user populace. They acted as the protectors of the Guild, clans and non-users, often leaving their homes to travel the world. Guardian was the route that Sir Aaron had taken. Not only due to his explorer's heart but also due to the fact he was expected to take over his father's place in Rota's royal court and he couldn't do that in the other positions.

Still all the routes that an aura user could take would take in an average of 15 years to complete training for. Maybe longer or shorter by a year or two depending on the user but it would still take years of study. Where a modern Pokémon Professor landed, Sir Aaron wasn't sure. But Professor Cerise spoke of starting his study 30 years ago, and only recently opened his own laboratory (according to Goh and Ash), so it must have taken some time.

Cerise himself however, was someone that Sir Aaron was quickly growing to like. The man this calm relaxed nature to his aura. Something that the knight greatly appreciated considering the circumstances. Openly curious and friendly, Sir Aaron could see the reason as to why Ash took up work underneath this man. Not to mention he didn't speak in riddles like the old sages of Sir Aaron's youth so loved to do. Thank Arceus.

The assistants that worked under the Professor, were also people that Sir Aaron approved of. Ren was a bright and cheerful young man from what he's seen, and Miss Chrysa had a kind heart offering towels and fresh clothing after he was soaked through.

"So," Ren started, working on a device that Sir Aaron made note of to learn about later, "I have been looking into Amanda, but things I haven't really gone that deep into it yet. And sadly, Amanda Gen is a pretty common name. So, this is going to be a long search."

"Anything you can do to narrow it down?" Goh asked.

"Well, I was waiting to see what the two of you," Ren gestured to Sir Aaron and Ash, "looked like next to each other. In order to rule out some of them. I mean she's probably going to look like you right? She's another blood relative?"

"Apparently," Ash said, "I met her brother, and Riley looks a lot like Sir Aaron."

"I have to admit, I was quite startled when Mewtwo revealed to me Riley's capture. Not even my own sister looked as similar to me as he did," Sir Aaron stated.

"Lorelei also looked similar to the two of you. Her eyes were on the light side, and her hair was dark," Professor Cerise chimed in from behind his magic floating glass scrolls.

"So, I can probably rule out any blonds," Ren said, tapping a modern-day quill on the table top for a moment, "Unless she dyes her hair..."

"Is there any way you can help find her Lucario?" Ash asked, from his spot on the couch, "You did lead us to Pikachu when he was missing."

It was more complicated than that. Lucario's ear flicked. I never actually honed in on Pikachu's Aura. I looked for Mew's. Mythicals are easier to identify due to their vast amounts of power.

"Wait if you were looking for Pikachu?" Goh asked, "Why not just looked for Pikachu?"

Pikachu was currently kidnapped by Mew. Considering I had no idea what Pikachu's Aura was like. Looking for Mew was the logical solution.

"That actually makes a lot of sense," Ash said, "Guess you can't really look for something if you don't know what you're looking for."

"Is that the reason as you have been having such trouble with locating her?" Sir Aaron said.

Partially Master. Her aura should be that of the user, and I suspect that hers would be similar to yours and Ash's however, she seems to be getting lost.

"You've stated this before. What do you mean by that?" Sir Aaron asked.

Just what I say. It's a drop of water getting lost in the sea. I don't know what's happening.

"Could it be the population difference between your time and now that's messing with you?" Professor Cerise asked, moved one of the floating glass scrolls with his two first fingers.

Pardon?

"Oh, yeah...That would be a problem..." Ren said rubbing the back of his neck.

"You see due to medical advancements. Things like childhood death and plagues have been mostly prevented and people usually live longer lives. This causes the population to rise," Chrysa explained.

"There's not anything wrong with your looking, there's just a lot more to look at," Ren said.

"It's a complication that I wasn't expecting. Usually, users can identify each other with great ease. If there are enough non-users in the world to drown out any actual users. Then that would mean our numbers are even smaller than I anticipated," Sir Aaron said.

"We're not really all that common though, right?" Ash said, now with Yamper in his lap and rubbing the yellow dog's belly, "I mean the only people beyond you and Lucario I knew who could do it was Riley."

"While true, aura users are a rarer variant of human, they are still possible. There were several aura bloodlines that produced powerful users that were part of the guild. However, in this era Mew claimed that many of them had lost their gifts. I had hoped she was exaggerating," Sir Aaron said.

"Is that a normal thing?" Goh chimed in, "Aura bloodlines just dying out?"

"Not that I'm aware of. Bloodlines would maybe have a few unlucky dormants born every now and again, but I have never heard of one dying out," Sir Aaron said, "The Grandmaster and other elders were very careful to keep track of every marriage between each bloodline and how many children were born from them. They knew we were outnumbered and they didn't want our gifts to be lost to the world."

"So, you guys are like really into genealogy?" Ash asked.

"Not all of us. I'm only aware of all this due to my father being very concerned with our line remining pure," Sir Aaron gently shook his head.

"Good, because I know little to none about mine," Ash said.

"I doubt it matters now Ash," Goh said, before looking, "Arranged marriages aren't really a thing anymore by the away."

Sir Aaron nodded, happy with this knowledge. He was never fond of the tradition and it was common place in any family that had high enough status. So, being the son of one of the royal court members of Rota meant that he watched this happen to almost all of his peers, and they never seemed to end well. The image of his own parents' happy marriage crumbled whenever they were in private, and Emily's flat-out rejection of the practice also influenced his opinion.

"Speaking of things that aren't really things anymore," Professor Cerise started, "We probably need to start catching you two up to modern days, and getting a cover story straight."

"Cover Story?" Sir Aaron raised a brow before his eye drifted to the ground, "Well, I do suppose we'll be needing that."

Do we truly?

"I'd say you do. With Team Rocket actively hunting you it's not a good idea to stay in one spot for too long," Professor Cerise said.

"Traveling usually means meeting new people," Ren said.

"And it not like you can say you've spent the last 700 years in a rock," Ash said.

"Well, you are the experts in this era. What do you suggest?" Sir Aaron said.

The world around him was burning. The sky drenched in red.

Bronze flames licked the strange metal towers that surrounded him. Roots that gleamed as if they were covered in shining blood, curled and strangled the collapsing structures. The smell of smoke and disaster hang heavy in the air. Embers swirled and danced to the symphony of the burning, while a chorus of frightened screams completed the choir of death.

Where was he? What had happened?

All he needed to know was that he needed to run. To move. Some feeling, maybe an instinct was bouncing around inside of his head. Hard and fast. Making his limbs twitch with desire to flee. To survive. But where would he run to? He didn't know where he stood or where was safe from the hungry festering flames. There was a cry as metal melted from the heat, beams from a tower behind him crumbling and collapsing with a shriek. Who built a tower out of metal?

He barely had time to run, to get out of the way. Heat swelled with the kicked-up dust, and it choked him, further threatening to suffocate him. His foot tripped on the smooth stone slab that was part of the road, sending his body to collied with hot rock. The scrapes on his hands and face stung and burned. Like they were just as much on fire as the village around him.

Then there was a second shriek.

It wasn't another tower falling. It was of a Pokémon. It's voice high, but strong and proud. He barely had enough time to look back, before his breath was sucked into his throat and got stuck there. Standing behind him, was a large red and black Pokémon. It slithered on a tail, with a fan of frills perched atop its back. The singular visible eye, glaring at him. It shrieked again, concentrating energy in front of its face.

He barely had time to flinch before the Pokémon fired its attack, and out of nowhere a shuriken of bright blue intercepted it. Making the world light up in white.

He closed his eyes....

And Sir Aaron opened his eyes with a choked gasp.

The knight swallowed thickly, calming his breathing. Icy eyes looked around the dark bedchamber, familiarity taking a moment to come back to him. Eventually though, he recognized the chamber that Professor Cerise allowed him to use during his stay at the research lab. The stacked double beds (the railing of the upper bedding above his head), small draw-set on the opposite wall, the perfectly clear crystal window, and thick rug on the floor. Though the rug now had been moved, as Lucario had at some point in the night stolen it from its place. The jackal Pokémon was now curled up in a tight ball in the corner of the room with the rug.

Sir Aaron smiled fondly, and shook his head fondly at the sight his Pokémon partner. The knight had been all too eager to sleep in a proper bed after centuries of sleeping in a rock. The mattresses of modern times were different than the ones he grew up sleeping on, but no less comfortable. Soft yet firm, and the sheets were wonderfully soft. Lucario, however, was never a fan of sleeping on soft things. Back in Rota Lucario usually slept on a mat on the stone floor with a fluffy pelt to curl up with. So, Sir Aaron wasn't surprise when the Pokémon opted for the wooden floor, though he might have to ask if Professor Cerise had any heaver blankets so that Lucario didn't have to use the rug.

The knight sat up and looked at the window over his shoulder. The moon was high and sky dark. It must have been late, or rather really early morning. There was clock in the room, and once he looked at it confirmed his suspicions, but he wasn't used to having one in his bedroom so it was more of reflex to look at the sky.

His thoughts returned to the nightmare. That blaze of fear and dread. It had been a while since this happened to him, but the knight knew the dream wasn't one of his own. Nightmares were something that Sir Aaron wasn't a stranger to. They'd happen to him every now and again, usually they were about a war with a woman calling his name, but he couldn't recognize her voice or remember her face. But that been when he was younger. Though, before those dreams started, when he was only a child who was sent to train in Hisui, he learned of another type of nightmare.

Shared dreams.

It wasn't a really well-known phenomena to the non-user community, but sometimes when two or more Aura users were near each other they would share visions in their slumber. It most commonly happened when one user was young and didn't know how to keep their dreams in their own mind and nightmares were shared more than any other type of dream. Due to the strong fear that someone feels during a nightmare it was easy to reach out to another mind for stability and comfort.

Sir Aaron learned long ago how to identify his own dreams from someone else's. Fire had never been a fear of his, the bloody roots were like nothing he had seen before, and he certainly didn't recognize anything else in the dream. It felt too raw, too real, to be something from his imagination. The conclusion he drew was that it wasn't his dream.

It was Ash's.

That was the only answer. Ash was the only user Sir Aaron had been around for years (centuries?), besides Lucario. Only his dreams could leak into the knight's mind. Sir Aaron sighed, and rubbed his face, before quietly getting out of bed and leaving the room. Though, Lucario usually slept like he was dead so there wasn't really much need to be that quiet anyway.

A quiet and light sweep of the manor, and Sir Aaron sensed all occupants. Almost all of their auras subdued with slumber. All except one. Goh, Raboot, Pikachu, and Riolu were still in their bedroom and apparently, Professor Cerise, Chrysa, and Ren didn't actually live on the manor's grounds, only worked on them. However, Ash was noticeably missing from his room. Sir Aaron didn't have to look for very long to find his young descendent.

Ash was sitting at the dining table next to the kitchens. The lad leaning on the top of it, his chin pressed on his folded arms. He looked exhausted, rings resting under his normally cheerful brown eyes, and his hair was far fuzzier then usual from a fitful sleep. Sir Aaron's heart began to ache at the sight.

"Ash?" Sir Aaron asked quietly as he entered the room.

"Hum?!" Ash shot up, jumping in his seat and aura flashing wildly due to being startled.

Sir Aaron kept his face neutral, but flinched mentally. The lad was clearly shaken. The nightmare must have meant something. Something that Ash didn't want to remember, but it still haunted him.

"Aaron?" Ash mumbled.

Sir Aaron smiled. It had been decided earlier in the day that the knight would drop his title in public. Apparently, knighthood wasn't something that happened anymore. Of course, Lucario would still use it due to force of habit, but the boys seemed to swap back and forth. Frankly, he didn't mind. None of his family usually used his title in private anyway, so it wasn't that strange for Ash to refer to him informally.

"Are you alright?"

"It was...I just had a bad dream. I didn't mean to wake you up."

"Oh, you leaving your chambers wasn't what woke me," Sir Aaron said taking a seat in the chair next to Ash.

"You were already awake?"

"Well, no. It was more of your dream that woke me. It happens to Aura users sometimes, sharing dreams. Especially if they're related by blood."

"Oh..." Ash's eye grew comically wide, "You saw all that?"

Sir Aaron nodded.

"Sorry."

"Don't apologize. You're young, inexperienced and didn't realize it. If you want to learn, I'll teach you how to control them."

Ash nodded, and swallowed, "Uhm Goh can't see them, can he?"

Sir Aaron shook his head, "No, you can't reach out to non-users in that way."

Ash nodded, seeming relieved.

"Mind if I ask what it was about?" Sir Aaron inquired carefully.

Ash was silent for a moment, but eventually, "It was about Kalos."

Kalos? If someone had asked Sir Aaron about the region earlier that day, he wouldn't know what they were talking about. However, Professor Cerise had explained it to him because the region was where he was sending the boys to for their next assignment. Sir Aaron and Lucario would be joining them for safety (as they needed to keep moving to make it harder for team Rocket to find them) and to keep the boys out of any other trouble. Ash had mentioned that he had been in the region before. Perhaps it was the trip that triggered the nightmare.

"Kalos?" Sir Aaron prodded.

"There was a disaster there, last year."

"You were there when it happened?"

Ash nodded, "I was competing in...well it was kind of a tournament."

"Like the one you'll be competing in Shalor city?" Sir Aaron asked recalling the excitement Ash expressed once Professor Cerise informed him of the event.

"This one was a bigger deal, but same sport," Ash's aura dulled with pain, "It was kind of crashed, by this group known as team flare. They took control of the legendary Zygarde, destroying cites and hurting people. Their leader, Lysander captured me, and Greninja, one of my Pokémon. We had gift you could say, Lysander wanted it for himself. He tried to take it. It hurt. He made me watch, as the friends I made in Kalos fought for their lives. It's not really my happiest memories," The lad flashed a false smile, tears shimmered in his dark eyes, and aura rippled slowly with pain.

For a second, it wasn't a cheerful young man that sat in front of Sir Aaron. Ash looked like one of the young knights or squires who returned from war missing a part of themselves. The passion and determination that burned in those young brown eyes, now flickered where it once flared. It didn't seem right for a face so youthful to look so worn. Oh, how to fix this?

"And what happened to this Lysander?" Sir Aaron asked.

"We stopped him, and his grunts," Ash said.

"We?"

"Me and my friends, and a couple of others."

"Goh?"

Ash shook his head, "I hadn't met him yet."

"Then who?"

"Well, there was Clemont, he's an inventor and the gym leader of the Luminous Gym. Bonnie, Clemont's little sister. Alain. Professor Sycamore. Mairin. Shauna. Trevor. Tierno. Sawyer. Diantha," Ash's eyes grew fond, "And Serena."

Sir Aaron smiled, immediately recognizing the flare of adoration in Ash's Aura. He had seen it happen a number of times, whenever the young Guardians in training would fancy a daughter of an elder Guardian or one of the maidens who were learning to be a healer. Clearly this Serena had caught Ash's eye. Whether he knew it or not.

"Sounds like you were very close with all of them," Sir Aaron said.

"Yeah," Ash's gaze became somber once more, "We were."

"Have you kept in touch with any of them? I know for a fact that those phone devices can connect people from far away."

"Well, first I can barely use my phone. And second. I don't think it's a good idea for me to stay in touch them...I mean I would love to talk with them, and if we bump into each other at some point, I'll say hi and we'll talk, but reaching out?" Guilt churned the lad's aura, "I don't want to put them in anymore danger then I've already put them through."

"What? Why'd do you think that they would be in danger around you?" Sir Aaron asked almost baffled.

"Cause that's what always happens. I meet people, we become friends, we go on adventures and things are great. Then...then some maniac on a power trip with a half-baked plan based on cave paintings and a weird legend comes in, trying to destroy the world!" Ash sighed, "Team Flare and Team Rocket aren't the only psychos I've had to deal with.

"When I met Riley, we had to fight off a group called Team Galactic. They had a machine that made all the steel type Pokémon on Iron Island go into a rage. Even after we managed to force them off the island, they weren't done. They wired everything with bombs. They-They were going to kill everyone. No one died obviously, but Riley...I don't know what he did to stop it, but he looked half dead when he crawled out of the rubble.

"Sometimes it just feels like it I'm followed by disaster and I just don't want anyone to get hurt or worse by being around me."

Sir Aaron raised a brow at that. Seemingly, surprised by that statement.

"Ash?" the knight said drawing the lad's attention, "Why do you think that?"

"You said it yourself; Aura Guardians attract unwanted and dangerous attention. I used to think that all the weird stuff around me was due to dumb luck, but clearly there's more to it"

Sri Aaron reached a hand out and gently gripped Ash's shoulder, "Ash, aura users tend to get the attention of legendaries and mythicals, not, as you call them, nutcases. I don't know why you've seen so many with in your lifetime, but nothing that are the acts of other people is your fault."

Ash shrugged, "It still feels like it."

"It might, but it's not. In fact, from what you told me, you did everything to stop them."

"It hadn't been enough in Kalos. Over 5 million people and Pokémon still died."

Sir Aaron was silent for a moment, the number of those who perished that day turning over in his head and churning his stomach. How far spread was that disaster for that many to die? The only thing that Sir Aaron could think of that would kill so many was a war. To think Ash had been in the middle of that. The nausea in his stomach twisted stronger with concern and fear. How easy would it to have been for Ash to have been one of those lost?

"You couldn't have Ash," The knight started, "Even if you tried. And their deaths don't rest on your shoulders either way."

Doubt flashed strongly throughout Ash's Aura, followed by a blanket of guilt. That wasn't right. Sir Aaron couldn't help but want to bring back the cheerful life and enthusiasm that burned in Ash like starlight. But how?

"You know, I didn't know it would work," Sir Aaron said.

"What?" Ash said.

"The Tree of Beginning. I didn't know if it would be enough to stop the war."

"Then why did you do it?"

"It was all I could do. I knew that it was the only chance I had of keeping my people and kingdom safe. Still, I didn't know if it would work and I knew that I probably wouldn't see the outcome of my actions."

"You were wrong about that last one," Ash mumbled.

Sir Aaron huffed a quiet laugh, "Yes, I guess I did misjudge that. However, the fact still stands. I didn't know. I didn't know if it spared my home. I didn't know how many it saved, by the time I made it to the tree the armies already clashed. I know some were already slaughtered on that battlefield. If I had been faster, they might have lived, but I couldn't have. I did all I could. Just as you did Ash. All those lost. They aren't your fault."

The lad suddenly surged forward wrapping his arms around the knight. Sir Aaron didn't hesitate to return the hug. He could feel the young one lightly trembling in his arms and for a moment there wasn't a lad of sixteen only a scared child who had seen enough evil to last beyond his life time. A strong protective urge came over Sir Aaron. Where it came from? He couldn't be sure, maybe it had to do with Ash being his newest apprentice, maybe it was the fact that they were the only two users for who knows how far, or maybe it was something else entirely. All that matter was if Team Rocket or any other force of evil tried to harm the child in his arms, he'd go and die again if needed.

"You're not a danger to anyone Ash. It was never you fault," Sir Aaron said again

Ash nodded into the elder's shoulder. The warm, long overdue, embrace ended after a few moments. Sir Aaron let go, but kept close to lad whose eye still shimmered lightly with tears.

"So, the Tournament you were competing in..." Sir Aaron eventually asked.

"Yeah?" Ash sniffed.

"Did you win?"

All tension and heavy emotions bled out of Ash as the boy huffed a surprised laugh and then playfully winced, "No, no I didn't. I got to the finals but Alain beat me. I was so close! All those months of training just to trip at the finish line," He explained with over dramatic gestures.

Sir Aaron chuckled at the youthful antics and smiled seeing the passion and joy return to the lad's aura, "That does sound like a set up for disappointment."

Ash shrugged, "I got over it. Wasn't the first time I lost a league. Besides Alain kind of needed a win at the time. He had it rough for a while."

Sir Aaron nodded, "Well, I guess we should return to bed. We need to be rested tomorrow's journey."

"Yeah, I guess. Have you ever been to Kalos?"

"I might have. The Aura Guardians had branches all over the world, and we often had to travel between each other, but I'll need to look at an actual map. If I have, it would probably have a different name at the time, but I might be able to recognize the land masses."

"I guess it would be hard for you to recognize anything. You lost your whole world..."

"Don't feel sorrow for me, Ash. I wasn't really losing as much as you believe," Sir Aaron stood up from his seat.

"What about your family, friends, or your Kingdom?"

"Lucario was really the only true friend I had left at the time of my death. All my peers moved on and built separate lives from our youth. My kingdom had and still has my loyalty, but my knight vows were made to Lady Rin and well...only meant to last a life time."

"I guess those vows didn't include getting stuck in a rock for centuries?"

Sir Aaron chuckled again, "There was no clarification about this kind of situation, but I doubt Rota still needs me with all the culture changes. As for my family, I wasn't very close with either of my parents, and I had never married. I was close with my sister however."

"Sister? Riley's some number of greats grandma?"

Sir Aaron nodded, "I do miss her, but I know she would be pleased with the fact that I will watch over her descendants."

"Was she an aura user too?"

"No, Emily took after our mother, who was Dormant."

"Dormant?"

"A child born from an Aura bloodline but doesn't have any gifts of aura."

"Oh," Ash yawned.

"Well, now it is certainly time for bed."

Ash nodded sleepily, stumbling as he stood up.

"Come now, let's not fall over," Sir Aaron said steadying the lad.

"Hey don't worry about me, if I'm still tired tomorrow, I can just sleep on the ride there," Ash said through another yawn.

"Right, I forgot that Professor Cerise lined up...what's it called again?"

"Plane."

"Plane right," His brows furrowing.

"You alright?"

"Yes, I'm just still having issues understanding how a metal structure can take flight like a pidgeot."

"Don't worry I still don't get them, and I grew up in a world with planes. You just need to accept it."

Chapter Text

Shalor City turned out to be a beautiful place. Green forests surrounded the modern city, with soft sea shores at the seams. Lucario could smell the salt in the air from where he watched in the stadium. The crowd around him was filled with chatter and cheers that should’ve driven his sensitive ears mad, but the jackal Pokémon’s attention was on the competitors in the arena below.

Pokémon battles were apparently a form of friendly competition. Duels with Pokémon actually fighting with their trainers calling the attacks like a military captain. The sport was entertaining if anything. Lucario could tell that none of the Pokémon used in the fights didn’t want to compete, the excitement and passion that radiated through their auras was enough to tell him that.

Speaking of passionate competitors, Ash came alive whenever he stepped into the arena. Less than a minute into Ash’s first battle, Lucario and Sir Aaron shared a startled glance. The lad aura grew and strengthened beyond expectations once he and pikachu were in the thick of a battle. Raw untapped potential that neither of them were expecting. Lucario always saw Ash with passion and endless amounts of energy…well that was still very, very true. How had the Aura Guild not found this lad yet?

Lucario could easily see Ash growing up to be a military strategist if Aura Guardian wasn’t an option to him. Some of the attack plans the lad was pulling seemed to come right out his pocket. Seeming random and confusing at first, but then it would click and look like a stroke of genius. As impulsive as Ash could be, the lad seemed to have a quick and prepared mind. Even outside of the arena the boy would have meeting with the rest of his Pokémon going over battle plans.

This was where, Lucario and Sir Aaron found Ash after the latest match. Sitting outside of the arena with his team. The pup, the mouse, along with a troublesome Gengar and overly affectionate Dragonite. The Latter of two Lucario hadn’t really interacted with as they only really left their Pokeballs at meal times or when they were in the lab’s gardens. Frankly Lucario didn’t understand how they could stand to stay inside such horrid devices for so long.

Ash looked up at them as they approached with a smile, “What do you think?”

“The sport certainly seems popular,” Sir Aaron said.

“Yeah, it’s kind of is, almost everyone turns up when a major league happens. Did you guys have anything like that? Wasn’t there something call jousting?”

“Yes, but I can’t say those tournaments were ever this crowded,” Sir Aaron said, “But then again I rarely went to them.”

The Battles are more entertaining than the jousts. Though some of the opponents you faced Ash…I am not impressed.

“You think you would do better?” Ash asked.

I have been in war zones without having to worry about a human giving me orders. It seems limiting to not allow the fighters to have more say in decisions on the field. Lucario tried to ignore the starry look the pup had in his eyes.

“I guess,” Ash said, looking rather puzzled, “I think it’s more about teamwork and working with your friends, but to each his own.”

“Speaking of friends,” Sir Aaron said, “Has anyone seen Goh, recently?”

The second lad, along with Raboot had run off to the surrounding forests and coast as soon as they had left the airport. Most likely to imprison wild Pokémon in capture balls and collect data on the nearby wild life like Professor Cerise requested.

He’s close by. I’ve kept track of him.

“He’ll meet us for lunch soon anyway,” Ash said, “I know a really good restaurant around here.”

“Still, we probably shouldn’t be separated for so long, who knows when team Rocket will try and capture us,” Sir Aaron said, “I’ll go look for him.”

The Knight gave the jackal Pokémon a look that said, watch the others. Lucario nodded and Sir Aaron walked off, blending into the crowd.

It was kind of bizarre to see his master in modern clothes, but people stopped staring at him in public so they appeared to be working. Miss Chrysa had been in charge of finding clothes for Sir Aaron because, Ren did not dress in a very dignified manner, Professor Cerise’s wardrobe was composed by his wife, and neither Goh or Ash knew anything about fashion. In shorter terms, none of the male humans in the laboratory could be trusted, so the only maiden took on the task herself.

The blue haired assistant ended up dressing the knight in a Prussian blue long sleeve-shirt, with a black leather button up vest that had a deep v neck line worn over it. A pair of black dress pants, and matching dress shoes. Capes had fallen out of fashion, but Miss Chrysa allowed him to keep his hat. She had managed to find a part of the fingerless gloves that Ash was so fond of (“So, you’ll match!”). Lucario knew that once Sir Aaron got his hands on the proper tools, he would transfer the gemstones from his old pair to the modern one.

Lucario turned back to the younger Aura User, finding that Ash was once again entrapped in his battle planning. It was pleasing to see what Ash enjoyed doing rather than being concerned over one of his kidnapped friends.

Working on the next strategy?

Ash looked back at the Jackal Pokémon, “Kind of. I’m more thinking of ways to battle outside of the box and writing down the ones I come up with mid battle. I don’t really have the best memory and they can come in handy for other things too, not just in battles.”

“Pika! (Yep!)”

That’s when he felt it. The buzz of an Aura wave in washing over him. It wasn’t Sir Aaron. That was an easy thing to identify. It wasn’t even a call from another human user. No. This hadn’t been a kind of wave Lucario had felt in a long time. This was from one of his own kind to see if there were any packs in the area. Though the jackal Pokémon had a feeling that this wasn’t exactly the reason as to why this other lucario was calling out.

The pup felt it as well, because Riolu suddenly dashed away from Ash’s side and towards the source of the signal.

“Riolu!” Ash shouted running after the young Pokémon.

Lucario and the other Pokémon in Ash’s party chase after the lad. The Pokémon following Ash, but Lucario following his senses, it was definitely one of his own kind that was sending the signals, what their intentions were however he couldn’t be sure. Distress signals and searching signals were different from each other, but for all Lucario knew meaning might have been swapped around during the past few centuries. Ash and the pup could be running into an ambush, and Ash hadn’t even realized what was happening yet.

When they finally came to a halt, Lucario was practically face to face with his reflection. Though there were a few differences between them. The fellow aura Pokémon was clearly younger than him, not pup young, but if they were in the same pack Lucario would’ve been the one in higher ranking. While his aura spoke one of a warrior, he lacked the scars of true war that Lucario wore, and wasn’t trained to work with a guardian. He must have been a wild.

Subtly Lucario send the pup a quiet signal. While the other aura Pokémon didn’t seem to notice, it seemed as if Riolu’s instincts weren’t as dulled as the stranger’s. The pup slowly backed away from them, and towards Lucario. Maybe it was long dormant instincts telling Lucario to not let the pup get to close or just his sense of duty to protect Ash’s auratic match, but he wasn’t risking a young pup with an adult he wasn’t familiar with.

Ash tilted his head, “I think I know you,” He spoke to the other aura Pokémon.

“Pika pikachu! (Hey! Been a while since we’ve seen you!)”

Well, maybe Ash and Pikachu knew, but where and when did he…

“Yoo-Hoo!” A feminine voice called.

Lucario looked towards the voice, and the very jumpy, energic aura that was rapidly approaching them. His ear flicked once he caught the sight of a young maidan, around Ash’s age, maybe a little older. Her complexion pale, long blond hair that stuck out of her oddly shaped hat, and bizarrely she had wheels attached to the bottom of her shoes. Lucario didn’t even understand why humans wore shoes in the first place, and now they were attaching wheels to them. What next?

Out of the corner of his eyes, Lucario saw the other of his kind perk up. A slight wag of his tail, and a flare of fondness in his aura. He must have known the maidan. Lucario couldn’t tell where any human fell into the social hierarchy these days, all the clothing seemed to follow the same trend and remain on the same level of quality. So, it was impossible to tell if she held power or not. This led to Lucario concluding that she must have been his fellow aura Pokémon’s trainer. Not her protector as his mind originally assumed.

It wasn’t uncommon for un-matched lucario to be rented out high ranking noble or sometimes royal families in times of emergency for safety. At least until a compatible guardian was found for them. Lucario could tell that the aura Pokémon in front of him was un-matched, and the maidan was certainly no user. Trainer seemed to be the only option left.

“Hi Ash!” the maidan said, rolling up to them in her baffling shoes.

“Korrina! I knew it!” Ash said.

“It’s been forever!” The maidan, Korrina, said.

“It’s only been a year,” Ash said.

“Yeah, well a year is a long time! How have ya been?”

“Oh, you know the usual.”

“On another gym run?”

“Nah, I hung out in Alola for a while, did the Island challenge.”

“Oh, tropical region. Didn’t take you for a vacation kind of guy.”

“I just said I did the Island challenge; the kahunas are just as tough as gym-leaders you know.”

“Yeah, yeah I know you’re not a slacker,” She shared a glance with the other aura Pokémon, “We haven’t really had much of a chance for a vacation. There was a lot of damage around Shalor city after…you know.”

Ash nodded.

Lucario kept his face unreadable as the maidan Korrina turned her attention to him and the pup who was currently clinging to his leg (when Lucario told the pup to stay close he didn’t mean clinging to his leg, but if the little one must…).

“These two yours?” Korrina asked, Ash.

Ash rubbed the back of his neck and smiled nervously, “Well, Riolu is with me, but Lucario…”

I am not one of Ash’s partners. I work with one of Ash’s elder blood relatives.

Lucario didn’t bother waiting for Ash to explain. The lad while a genius in the arena sadly wasn’t always as exceptional in any other division. Memory especially, according to Goh it took a month to get Ash to remember his own phone number (whatever that was). So, while he meant no offense to Ash, Lucario wasn’t really trusting him to remember the cover story that they had decided upon on at the laboratory. Sir Aaron would pose as Lucario trainer, and Ash would be Sir Aaron young relative. Not too far from the truth, so it would be easy to believe.

Though, keeping cover wasn’t the only reason that he wanted to say something.

Lucario had to keep himself from laughing at the expressions of maidan Korrina and the other aura Pokémon made. Shock and surprise, both of their jaws hanging loose, and the long ears on his fellow’s head drooped slightly. Good to know that the reactions to his unusual form of communication is the same in this century.

“You can talk!” Korrina all but shouted.

“Well, technically it’s telepathy,” Ash said.

“Oh! Yeah, that’s obvious!” Korrina said, rolling her eyes, “How do you do that?!”

I think.

“Seriously that’s all your going say! You won’t let me in on your secrets!” Korrina all but shouted trying to poke at Lucario.

Ash chuckled, “Korrina I don’t think you’re going to get an answer. Both him and my relative are kinda tight lipped about it.”

The maidan turned a suspicious glare at Ash, “Your relative?”

“Yes?” Ash said with a confused look on his face.

“Your relative knows about this?”

“He had to, he taught Lucario.”

“Hmmm…I’m going to need to talk to this mysterious man,” She looked at her lucario, “We need to figure this out.”

Alright, the maidan was decidedly not from an aura family.

“Okay?” Ash said, “So what are you doing here? Are you here for some special Gym leader type thing for the tournament?”

Gym leader? So, she was with higher standing compared to the rest of the competitors if she held that rank. If Lucario understood the gym system correctly.

Korrina laughed, “Oh, not today! I’m just one of the regular old competitors, sadly gym battles don’t count in the World Coronation Series if you’re the gym leader. It’s considered an unfair training advantage since I don’t have to leave my gym to battle trainers.”

“You’re in the World Coronation Series too! So am I! One more win and I’m in the great class,” Ash said excitement starting to radiate throughout his aura.

“Of course, I’m in the World Coronation Series! In fact, that’s why I came over in here in the first place! We want a re-match. You see we’re in the same spot, I just need one more win to get into the great class too. You want to see who gets there first?”

“Yeah!”

And with that Lucario was chasing the two young trainers as they ran back to the arena, determined to see who would win in a match.

Goh, wasn’t a hard child to find. Sure, he wasn’t as loud or obvious as Ash was, but he was cautious and that meant he didn’t stray far from where his group was. Sir Aaron was thankful for this fact.

“So, this lucario is your partner?” Goh said.

“Yes, your first encounter?” spoke the old man that stood in front of Goh.

“Well, not really you see…”

“He has already met my partner, who happens to be a lucario,” Sir Aaron spoke making himself known.

“Aaron what are you doing here? Something wrong?” Goh asked.

“Nothing to worry about lad. We we’re just wondering you wanted a say on our lunch plans,” Sir Aaron said.

“Oh, It’s lunch time?”

Sir Aaron nodded.

“I kinda forgot.”

“Happens to the best of us, lad.”

“This young man with you?” The elder man asked, his lucario standing at his side dutifully.

“He is one of my charges for the day,” Sir Aaron said.

“Out of how many kids?”

“Two, a young relative of mine.”

“Hah! I don’t envy you! My granddaughter is just one person but she can give anyone a run for their money,” He held out his hand, a greeting, “Gurkinn.”

“Aaron,” Sir Aaron said taking the offered hand.

Gurkinn nodded, “Say, where are you from?”

“Uhm…Rota,” Sir Aaron swallowed.

“Ah a renaissance city, that explains the dialect.”

Sir Aaron tried not to looked puzzled at the comment. He honestly didn’t think anyone would notice the way he talked, but the knight stood corrected.

There was the voice of the announcer coming from the arena, letting the crowd outside about the imminent match. Ash was competing. Sir Aaron could tell. The electric staticky feeling from the excited aura waves that wafted off the child when he was in the heat of battle that Sir Aaron picked up on confirmed this.

“We should get back, shouldn’t we?” Goh asked.

Lucario was once again in the stands, gazing down at Ash in the arena. The lad’s excitement was infectious, Lucario almost outwardly smiled as he watched the match. Korrina’s aura flared and flashed similarly to Ash’s, but being a non-user, hers had far less of an effect, only being notice ably by users. Still, it didn’t mean the maiden wasn’t passionate, if she were a user, she would’ve been a force to be reckoned with.

Lucario’s ear flicked once the doors of the moving room, the elevator as Goh called it, opened with a hiss. Speaking of Goh, the lad emerged from the elevator along with Sir Aaron, Raboot, an elder man with rather impressive eyebrows, and another fellow of the aura Pokémon’s species. Lucario knew right away that this fellow was his elder, someone who would’ve held higher rank than him if they were in the same pack, even if the fellow lacked true scars of the wild and war.

Sir Aaron locked his blue eyes to Lucario’s red, nodding. A greeting and signal to remain quiet. Not like the jackal Pokémon was planning on using telepathy in this crowd.

“Hey look over there!” Goh exclaimed, “It’s Ash!”

“I must say I’m amazed,” spoke the eyebrow man, “he’s up against my granddaughter?!”

“Well, if that isn’t coincidence,” Sir Aaron mumbled.

And with that the match began. Korrina was a decent trainer in her own right, her use of U-turn was well planned, even taking out Gengar. Her Pokémon, Lucario noticed, were all kinds bred for war and combat. Pokémon similar to the ones that all if the non-guardian knights paired with.

Still once again Ash’s ingenuity was his greatest strength. Dragon dance served its unexpected purpose well, but by that point Ash was down a competitor and Dragonite was wounded. However, Ash always seemed to do his best when put under pressure.

“This is where it begins…” The old man spoke.

“What do you mean by that?” Sir Aaron quired.

It was then something Lucario couldn’t explain. The battle field lit up with a powerful glow, that despite the unusual coloring he knew what this power at its core was. Aura. Powerful, but mixed with something he didn’t recognize. Red eyes stared on in shock as he watched his fellow’s body shift and change, like that of when a pup grows into their adult form, and when the glow faded, shock became awe. Standing on a battle field was a truly magnificent form of his race. The sensers on the side of his head were long, flowing. Tail forgotten for fan of golden fur. Blues, reds and blacks all bled together forming the being of an Alpha.

But the display wasn’t over. The aura waves that the fellow sent out were strong and warm like a summer’s wind. Even detectable by non-users, and small physical items if the number of leaves and small papers zipping around in the air suggested anything. Lucario and Sir Aaron shared another shocked glance. Not even the Grandmaster had such power like this transformation gave.

Lucario heard the sound of the elder behind him chuckling. A noise that honestly sounded more like a cross between a growl and a stuttering cough, but it held the same meaning as a human chuckle.

“Lu lu cari (I take you haven’t seen mega evolution before?)” The elder asked.

“Ca (No),” Lucario responded, somewhat surprised. It had been a long time since he had spoken with one of his own in their native speak.

“Car, Cari Lu (You are not of kalos then?)”

“Ca, lu cari lu (No, I was born in…Sinnoh…then joined my…trainer in…kanto),” Lucario knew his slow answer probably tipped the elder off to his lying, but they didn’t say anything. In his defense, everything had different names now.

“Cari lu, rio (It’s still surprising your trainer hasn’t tried to claim a key or mega stone for the both of you).”

“Lu lu rio cari (Our training focuses on other things rather than battle competition).”

“Lu Rio lu, (Yes, I assumed that, he is an aura user. I was surprised when I met him. It was believed they were all long dead).”

“Rio cari (We’ve been hearing that a lot lately).”

“Lu cari lu Rio (Didn’t realize that Ash was born of an Aura line).”

“Rio (You didn’t? How?)”

“Lu lu Rio ca cari lu (Not everyone is constantly around a user these days, and it’s hard to identify something you’ve never seen. I knew he was different just not a user. Though with a family member nearby and the pup it’s easier to tell. Is he yours?)”

“Lu car (who? The pup?)”

The Elder nodded.

Lucario shook his head, “Ca Ca lu car (No, no, he is not mine. I don’t know where he came from).”

“Cari lu (Probably a daycare pup, that’s where most of them come from).”

Lucario’s ear flicked at the foreign description. Whether being a daycare pup was a good thing or not he wasn’t sure. He would have to learn what that was. It could help him learn about the pup’s mother or pack, who were no doubt concerned for an egg that was lost.

“Lu lu cari rio, (and what of the competitor? Is he yours?)” Lucario asked.

The elder nodded, “Rio car Rio (He is my daughter’s only offspring).”

“Car lu Rio (she must take pride in him).”

The elder shook his head, “Rio lu lu cari (I can only hope. She is in Arceus’s hold now. Car accident. Left her, her trainer, and their mates dead).”

“Rio Lu (my condolences).”

“Lu Rio lu car Rio (It was long ago, and I have moved on. The rest of my family is still here and I treasure them. Small Fang and Korrina will protect shalor and guide young trainers long after me and Gurkinn are gone. The future is safe with them).”

And with that said the announcer called the match over. Ash the standing victor.

Chapter Text

Professor Samuel Oak was what you could call a man of intelligence, but he often became distracted, forgetting details and going off on tangents that even he didn't always fully understand. However, sometimes those tangents often led to his greatest discoveries oddly enough. No, he did not have answer as to why this happened.

Though as eccentric as he was, Samuel was pretty sure that he didn't have a video meeting scheduled today.

Still, that didn't mean he wasn't pleased to see his old pupil reach out.

"Professor Oak."

"Ah, Cerise! Good to hear from you!" Samuel greeted cheerfully, "I hope everything is going alright in Vermillion."

"Vermillion is going fine...however we have had certain development recently."

"What has Ash done now?" Samuel said, finding Cerise's surprised face rather amusing.

"How did you know it was related to Ash?"

"I've known the boy since before he was a trainer. He has a knack of having 'certain developments'," Samuel explained, the incident with an Entei coming to mind.

"This happens regularly?!" Cerise looked to the side nervously.

"More or less," Samuel shrugged, "You're not regretting hiring him, are you?"

"No, I just think I need to get better insurance."

Samuel bellowed laughter, "That would be a good idea! So, what has the boy done now that warrants you calling me?"

"It's a long story..."

And true to his word, Cerise explained the more recent discoveries made at Vermillion. Samuel listened with great curiosity, knowing this was something worth his undivided attention. Samuel had watched the boy grow up since he was a baby, and Ash had always been special. Even before he was born Ash was far from usual.

Samuel felt sad whenever he thought how Delia came to live in Pallet town, he wished he could forget about that day. But it isn't easy to forget when a young woman wanders into town in the middle of a thunderstorm, a bump on her head and all memories missing. Samuel had been the first to house her, after finding Delia crying on the side of the road the old man couldn't just leave her where she was. Especially when he saw that she was nearly six months pregnant. Besides he had the room in his home, it was just him, an infant Gary and little two-year-old Daisy-May in the house at the time. The war effort at the time required every abled adult and trainer to participate, meaning all that was left in Pallet were the elderly and young children. Until Delia came along.

Deila had been very quiet those first few days. Sleeping mostly. The Ketchums, a nice older couple who owned (at the moment shut down) a restaurant in Pallet and close friends of Samuel, were over at his home almost every day to help with the children already, so they started to care for the young expectant mother as well. Arceus bless their souls. Delia had nightmares, poor thing couldn't sleep for weeks, and seemed frightened about everything, flinching when lights were turned on or when someone started to use running water. Mrs. Ketchum and Mr. Ketchum had all but claimed Delia as their own after a month, even taking the younger woman to live in their home and turning one of their guest rooms into a nursery.

Still many questions remained after Delia was finally settled, and sadly she couldn't answer them. Poor woman couldn't remember anything beyond her name and that her home wasn't safe anymore. The latter wasn't all that hard to believe, the Tri-Team War was waging around the globe at the time and many small towns were caught in the crossfire.

As for the matter of the boy's father...

Well, the possibilities weren't favorable. Delia had no memory of the man leaving all options open. Meaning, at best he was drafted to fight and died, or at worst he ditched. And no one ever came looking for Delia. Frankly, considering how what was wonderful contribution to the community of Pallet Delia became, if the man was still alive, Samuel hoped he had a very good explanation for his 16-year absence.

Despite how his mother came to Pallet. Ash was born a healthy, strong baby boy. The Ketchums fully accepting him as their grandson, and Delia as their daughter by that point.

When asked why Delia chose the name Ash, she answered, "A. I don't know why, but the letter A seemed important and ashes may be what comes after disaster, but then they become the foundation we rebuild on. He's my future, my new foundation, I'll rebuild my life with him."

The Ketchums sadly didn't live very long after Ash's fourth birthday, but they left everything they had to Delia, so she wouldn't struggle after their sudden deaths. So, Samuel made sure he was there if the mother and son needed anything, though Delia rarely needed others to help her. She turned out to be a very determined and independent person once she felt safe again. Quickly taking over the Ketchums' old restaurant and running the business in a way his old friends would be proud of.

As Ash grew, his adventurous spirit flourished and clear love for Pokémon bloomed. Samuel had the pleasure of watching Ash grow. The old professor had tried to foster a friendship between Ash and Gary as they were close in age, but as they got older, the less they could get along. Actually, Ash didn't get along with many of the children in Pallet. Not that Ash didn't like the other children, he just didn't want to play their games. Preferring to explore the nearby forest, or play with the Pokémon in the lab's yard.

At first Samuel was concerned for the boy's safety, not all of the Pokémon in the lab were tamed enough for a young child to be with unattended, however, Ash quickly proved that his worries were unwarranted. Even the most aggressive and stubborn Pokémon would eventually break, and allow Ash to befriend them. Sometimes with just a touch the boy could win them over. Samuel had never seen anything like it.

Ash was special. No doubting that.

This was why, when Cerise told him about the knight from the 1300s, who was supposed to be dead but wasn't, had been sent by Mew to help Ash stop a group of terrorists who were trying to destroy the world, he wasn't all that surprised. Weird things happened in the Ketchum household.

"So, that's what has been happening at my lab. Are things still normal in Pallet Town?"

"Not since you told me about this!" Samuel laughed, "But in all seriousness, this certainly is a situation. Does this Team Rocket really believe that they can summon Arceus themselves?"

"Sir Aaron has confirmed that such a ritual existed with in the Aura Guild, whether or not it works is still unknown however. While I haven't talked to a member of Team Rocket, Ash has a history. He told me about the plot to use Meloetta's power two years ago."

"Meloetta? As in the mythical Pokémon of melody? No one has seen her in years."

"Ash did, he told me Meloetta went back into hiding after the incident."

"Probably for the best. The power of mythicals is something that should be respected, and if such power could create much destruction if in the wrong hands."

"Sounds like you've had personal experience."

Samuel rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, "I might have had a run in with a Celebi when I was younger."

"What happened?"

"Oh, nothing you need to worry about. It's all sorted now."

Cerise on screen nodded, "So, will you be able to help us?"

"Of course! I won't leave one of my favorite former students to flounder in a situation like this one. Now, what can I help you with?"

"Right now, we're looking for the fourth Aura User that Mew told Sir Aaron to find."

"Another user? I didn't realize there were so many of them left. Most people believe they're merely fables."

"I have to agree I didn't even know what an Aura user was until Sir Aaron explained it, and even then, I had a hard time believing it. It all sounds like it's straight out of a story book."

"All myths have some bases in truth or they would never have existed. Now regarding this fourth user, I'm guessing that you are asking my help in locating her."

"If it's no trouble."

"No, it's no trouble at all. Do you know anything about them?"

"Her name. Amanda gen."

"Amanda Gen," Samuel tapped his chin in thought, "Can't say the name is familiar. How old is she? Do you have any idea what she looks like? If she was one of the trainers that I gave a starter too I might be able to get in touch with her."

"I don't think you'll find her in your trainer database. We don't know anything else about her, really. Though we do have a lead we think you can help with. Do you remember Lorelei?"

"Lorelei?" Samuel hummed, "Lorelei...Oh, yes, I remember her! Bright mind, dark hair, and very determined...But what does she have to do with the girl?"

"Lorelei goes by Professor Gen, now. What we're theorizing is that she's a relative to the girl. Do you know how we could get in contact with her?"

Samuel sighed deeply, "I'm afraid not. I haven't talked to her in at least a decade. Last I heard she has her own laboratory now."

"Do you know where her lab is?"

"Ryme City. However, I don't think you'll find her there. Rumor is that she's always traveling to expand her funding and resources. It's nearly impossible to get an in person meeting."

"Well, that's just our luck. I guess this means you don't know if she had children or not."

Samuel shook his head, "No, sadly. I did a get a wedding invite, but I couldn't make it," The elder professor, "I might have an old number of hers somewhere in my older files and databases, but it would take some digging to find it."

Cerise sighed, "Well, I guess that's a dead end."

"Not, necessarily. We'll see if it is when you send them over."

"Wait what? Send who over?"

"Why the boys, and you're not dead knight! I'm sure Ash wouldn't mind a trip home, and I have a lot of files to go through. It will take me and Tracey much longer to go through them all by ourselves. Besides you said they shouldn't stay in one spot for too long. Don't worry I'll foot the travel bill if needed."

"Well...I'll let them know I have a new assignment for them."

"I'll expect them in here in a few days."

Cerise nodded and cut the call.

Leaving Samuel with his thoughts. The professor hummed, processing the newly given information.

"Tracey! We have a new project to work on!"

"Alright, steady," Sir Aaron murmured, his hands at the ready in case something went wrong.

Ash had proven himself to be good student, curious, but very different from Lucario. Lucario had been eager, but it was more of a quiet, cautious eager. More inclined to listen then speak. Ash on the contrary was far more vocal with his enthusiasm. The knight quickly figured out that he would have to give Ash something to do to keep the boy engaged. Finding that the lad learned better through doing, rather than lecture. A blizzard would storm inside a volcano before Sir Aaron could get Ash to even attempt meditation.

However, once Sir Aaron knew how to teach Ash properly, the boy made great advancements in his training. Hence the reason as to why after just two days Ash could successfully summon a small Aura sphere in his hands. The small glowing ball of collected energy in Ash's hold was jerkily spinning rather than a smooth twirl, and the usual quiet hum it gave off was also rough. Clearly unstable, but it was a good start. With some refinement, Ash would be summoning proper Aura Spheres in no time.

"I'm doing it," Ash said with some glee in his voice, and a smile on his face despite sticking his tongue out in deep concentration.

Sir Aaron chuckled, "Yes you are. Now careful not to drop it."

"Hey Goh! What's this thing look like through your thingamabob?!" Ash called out.

Professor Cerise had been gracious enough to let them train in the sanctuary, though he did ask if one of his assistants could document Ash's training. Sir Aaron had no issues with this, as long as they observed from a safe distance. Lessons with beginner users could go from calm to explosive in the blink of an eye. So, now Miss Chrysa and Goh were sitting top one of the sanctuary's hills, with devices that Sir Aaron couldn't understand. Pikachu, Riolu and Raboot, were perched at the edge of hill's incline, watching intently.

"It's called an inferred camera!" Goh called back, "And surprisingly no! Aura does not give off a heat signature."

At least not to your machinery. It feels warm when you hold it. Lucario communicated, from his guard post next to the modern scientists. Just in case.

"Really?" Goh said.

"Yeah!" Ash said, swiveling his hands, "It's like holding warm water but not touching it. It kind of feels like," Ash made a noise that vaguely resembled the sound of a beedrill, "like its buzzing. You know?!"

Goh looked at Ash, with a very confused, but not at all surprised face, "No, I don't."

The knight tried not to laugh at the lads' banter. Descriptions were not Ash's strong suit, but Aura Guardians weren't known for their prose. So, it didn't matter much.

Ash shrugged, before turning back to Sir Aaron, "Okay, what do I do now?"

"We're just working on summoning and dissipating aura at the moment. This will help strengthen your connection to it, allowing better control. You'll have an easier time learning other techniques if your connection is forged beforehand."

Ash nodded, "Okay so how do I turn this off?"

"Well, it depends on the user. Some can dissipate aura by mere thought, others need to combined physical motion in order to connect at first," Sir Aaron explained.

"I'm thinking. It's not working!"

"Alright, you're going to want to drop your hands to your sides, but do it slow-"

It was a beginner's mistake, but honestly Sir Aaron felt he should've talked faster. Ash dropped his hands to quickly, which let the unstable sphere go wild instead of making it dissipate. The tiny collected blue bundle of aura zipped to the side at an alarming speed. Whirring and buzzing as it sparked and flew through the air. Dashing straight for the viewers on the hill.

Lucario was quick to block it with an aura field, but the gleaming orb oddly bounced off the field and hurled back towards the two users. Reflexes kicking in, Sir Aaron pulled Ash behind him and summoned a field of his own. Only for the orb to bounce right back like a pinball, this time Pikachu intercepting it with a metal tail attack, sending the aura sphere soaring towards the glass crystal ceiling. Ricocheting between the panes a few times, before striking one at just the right angle and sending the gleaming orb plummeting downwards into a tree. The leaves and branches blowing up in a plume of flames and smog. The burnt skeleton of a maple, it's limbs still smoking, was the only thing remaining.

"Holy Shit!" Goh swore, while everyone else gaped. Still trying to process what just happened.

"Pika Pika!"

"Olu!"

"Is everyone alright?" Sir Aaron called out.

Miss Chrysa and Ash nodded, neither of them taking their eyes off the tree. The younger Pokémon only seemed startled. Pikachu and Riolu running over to Ash, the mouse jumping into his trainer's hold, and the pup clinging onto the lad's leg. Raboot didn't appear disturbed on the outside, though the knight could sense small flares of shock running through the rabbit Pokémon's soul. Goh was letting his stress and disbelief out through wide eyes, and quiet swears. Lucario was both impressed and surprised from the sudden attack.

But overall, everyone seemed to be unharmed.

Sir Aaron sighed in relief.

"Sorry about the tree Chrysa!" Ash called back.

"Don't worry about it!" The assistant called out.

Ah, yes that damage did need to be taken into consideration. The training fields had always needed to be cleaned and revived after the beginners' class. Sir Aaron started towards the smoking husk, setting his palm aglow with a cyan light. Reaching out to the thin trunk, but not yet touching the bark, the glow traveled from the knight's hand and spilled on to the dead tree. Flowing up and down the rough bark and bare branches, until the tree was fully enveloped in the light, shimmering like sunlight on an empty seafloor. The burning and ash were washed away, replaced with living wooden flesh, and newborn leaves sprouted from the branch tips until lush with life once more.

Sir Aaron pulled his hand away, smiling at his work.

And that was very the moment the sanctuary's fire sprinklers went off.

Goh scowled at the homework on the table in front of him. Honestly, the world was endangered and of course he still had to complete his school work. But if he didn't do it, he would have to face Chloe and Goh knew how much she cared about his education. She went through all the trouble to get him the homework after all.

"Mime Mime!" Mimey said, putting a cup of hot chocolate in front of the human boy.

"Thanks, Mimey," Goh said.

"Mime!"

There was a mild growl coming from a lump of towels on the floor next to the couch. Mimey poked the lump with his foot before putting another steaming mug next to it.

"You okay, Lucario?" Goh asked the lump.

There was another displease rumble.

"Don't mind him," Sir Aaron chimed from where he sat on the sofa, nodding thanks to Mimey as the Pokémon handed him his own mug, "He's always like this after getting caught in the rain."

After being tortured.

"You were not tortured," Sir Aaron said flatly, "Do you honestly think that you would be allowed in the manor covered in mud?"

When you grow your own fur coat master, you can tell me what torture is. Lucario uncurled from his mound of blankets and towels, taking the mug with what almost looked like a smile on his snout.

Sir Aaron sighed through his nose, shaking his head lightly, before sipping the beverage. A small smile of surprise and great approval sneaking on to the knight's own face, as he swallowed looking at the contents remaining in his mug. Goh didn't laugh at Lucario's smug look, just hid his smile behind a sip of his own cup.

Mimey once again had out done himself. This was the best mug of hot chocolate Goh had ever had. Vaguely the young trainer wondered if it was Miss Delia's recipe. That woman seemed to always know how to either spice or sweeten something perfectly. It wouldn't be surprising if she had a special hot chocolate recipe. He might need to ask for it. This was just what he needed after the fire suppression system went off.

Apparently, the sprinklers at Cerise Labs were really, really, really strong. Not two minutes after the turned on, everyone was soaked through with water and the ground became nothing but a deep muddy puddle. Needless to say, once they managed to get back to the lab's doorstep, they were all a mess. Chrysa went home to clean herself up. While Mimey didn't even let the smaller Pokémon walk through the house as they were the muddiest, Pikachu and Raboot were washed in the kitchen sink, before they were allowed to roam around again. Riolu would've joined them, but the baby aura Pokémon ran off and Ash spent the next hour and a half chasing him down.

Everyone managed to already clean themselves by the time Ash had finally gotten ahold of the run away.

"Riolu! Get back here!"

Speak of Giratina and they will come.

There was a loud crashing sound coming from upstairs, and less than a moment later a flash of wet blue darted down the staircase. Quickly followed by Ash running, and then tripping and falling, down the stairs. Pikachu jumping off of Ash's shoulder and landing on the stairway rail, right before the trainer tumbled.

"Pikapi!"

Ash groaned into the floor.

Ash?

The dark-haired trainer gave a thumbs up, "I'm okay!"

Ash picked himself up and walked towards the kitchen, where Mimey had stopped Riolu's escape. The baby Pokémon struggling in the hold of the older Pokémon.

"Alright," Ash said, "We don't have to use the hair dryer, but you have to towel off. You're literally dripping all over the floor."

Riolu whimpered.

"Don't give me that look. It doesn't work on me anymore."

The wet fluff ball then growled.

"Mime Mime Mime!" Mimey said, shoving a red mug into Ash's hands, before marching the wet Riolu upstairs.

"Yeah, yeah I'll go sit down," Ash mumbled, walking to sofa. Pikachu jumping off of the railing and running along the back to the cough to snuggle with his trainer, and try to steal sips from Ash's mug.

Goh turned back towards his homework, just as footsteps could be heard coming down the nearby hall and into the room.

Professor Cerise, sighed, and rubbed the back of his neck, "Well, I just had the most interesting conversation with the fire chief."

"Sorry," Ash mumbled.

"Don't apologize, accidents happen," Professor Cerise said, "I still don't know what triggered the sprinklers though."

"That was me," Ash said.

"What? How?" Professor Cerise raised a brow.

"I blew up a tree," Ash said.

At this professor Cerise looked more confused, and Goh couldn't blame him. The sanctuary just looked wet after Sir Aaron magically brought the tree back to life.

"Where?" Professor Cerise said.

"One by the water pond," Sir Aaron chimed in, "Do not concern yourself, I repaired the damage."

"Yeah, the tree was burnt to a crisp then Aaron zapped it and it looked fine," Ash said, "How did you do that?"

Sir Aaron paused to swallow before answering, "Aura isn't just used for attacking and destruction. The life force of Arceus can be used for healing and creation as well."

"So theoretically you could fix items with a wave of your hand?" Professor Cerise asked.

"Only if their living beings. If Ash had struck, say a stone wall there would be little I could do for that."

"But doesn't everything have aura in it?" Ash asked, "I mean you can see everything in aura sight, right?"

"You are correct about the aura sight, however just because you can sense something does not mean you can make use of it. If you were stuck in a stone pit and all you had was a sword, would you be able to get out using it? No, you couldn't. You have the sword, you know it is there, but you cannot use it."

"Back to the topic of healing," Professor Cerise said, "How does that actually work? Can aura effect cellular regeneration?"

"Uh...I'm uncertain what modern technical terms would be correct to use here, nor was I trained in healing beyond minor wounds and exhaustion, but my understanding is that concentrating aura in wounded areas of the body can help them mend."

"What about illness? Can Aura be used for that?" Goh asked, suddenly interested in this conversation again.

"Beyond supporting the body's natural healing by merging auras and suppression of minor symptoms, I don't believe so. But then again, I've only ever use aura on a head cold to get through council meeting when it comes to illness."

"Wait, merging aura? Is that what we did in the Tree of Beginning?" Ash asked.

Yes, though it wasn't the same as supporting a victim of plague.

"Lucario is correct. Even if I don't have the full story what happened, it was a form of healing that the two of your preformed," Sir Aaron said.

"So, wait if you can give your aura to support someone who's sick, wouldn't you just always support whatever is making them sick too?" Ash asked.

"Ash viruses aren't alive. You can't give life to something that's not alive in the first place. Right?" Goh said.

Sir Aaron nodded.

"So, this means we can't bring dead people back to life?" Ash suddenly asked.

"No, though it's not for a lack of trying. There are many accounts of the first users trying to raise the dead. None of the attempts were successful," Sir Aaron cleared his throat.

"So, we're technically descendants of people who wanted a zombie uprising?" Ash said.

"Pikapi..."

"I'm sorry?" Sir Aaron blinked confusingly.

Lucario's ear drooped and his head tilted. What?

"Oh, you don't know what that means," Ash said.

"You can show them the Walking Dead later," Professor Cerise said, "In the meantime, I finally managed to get a hold of Professor Oak."

"Does he know how to contact Professor Gen?" Goh asked.

"Not off the top of his head, sadly. There's a chance, he might have an old contact hidden away somewhere, but it's a long shot. While he was looking, he was wondering if you wouldn't mind a trip to Pallet Town."

"YEAH!" Ash cheered, jumping off the couch, "You hear that Pikachu! We're going back to Pallet! Where going home!"

"Pi! Pikachu!"

Chapter Text

Riolu had never been to Ash's home before. Ash and Pikachu had talked about Pallet Town but that was it. Now he was seeing the territory where his trainer was from. Surprisingly, Pallet Town was much smaller than other human dens. Much smaller than Vermillion. Little individual houses in the middle, a small downtown for shops on the right and on the left was a large building that was apparently the Pokémon lab. The whole city surrounded by forest. Riolu liked it. Even the air smelled sweeter than in cities like Vermillion.

Pikachu sighed, "Pi pika pika (ah it's good to be home)."

"Raboot boot (This is where you're from?)"

"Pika chu pika (yeah don't sound too excited)."

"Ra boot Ra (it's kinda small)."

"Pi Pi chu (it's called being quaint thank you very much)." Pikachu crossed his arms.

"Olu Ri (I like it)."

"Pikachu Pi Pika! (that's it. And it only gets better! Wait till you meet mom! She's the best)"

"Raboot Ra (You call your trainer's mother 'mom')?"

Pikachu nodded, "Pi Pika (we all do. Even Charizard and he's got a pride issue)."

"Ri olu (could I call her that)?"

"Pikachu chu Pi (you probably should. Though be careful, you don't tick off Mom. Trust me I've watched her go up against Entei)."

"Ash! My boy! It's so good to see you!" spoke Professor Oak, a large grin on the elderly man's face, "Welcome home!"

The dark-haired trainer embraced the Professor in an eager hug. Professor Oak was the closest thing Ash ever had to a grandparent. His adoptive grandparents passing away when he was very young, and he had never met any of his mother's real blood family, but the old goofy professor had stuck around all throughout his childhood taking on that grandfatherly role when Ash needed him.

"Good to be home professor," Ash said.

Yeah, he was home. Man, did that feel good to say. Not that Ash didn't mind going out on adventures, and getting his daily adrenaline fix, but there was no place like home. And Pallet was the nicest town this side of Kanto. It was one of those small towns, where everyone knew each other, and if you pissed off one member you'd have to deal with the wrath of the whole community. The time where some rude trainers had threatened Mrs. Patchy, who ran the small pallet town inn, and Mom secretly over spiced their food whenever they came to the restaurant to eat as retaliation came to mind. Or when all of Mom's friends showed up to wish him luck on the day he started his Pokémon journey, sure it hadn't been as flashy as Gary's send off, but his mother couldn't really hire cheerleaders. Frankly, even Ash thought that choice had been a bit much, but Gary's ego needed constant stroking back then.

"Yeah, you're just saying that because you don't get stuck doing the paper work all day!" Tracey called from the back of the room.

"You're the one who took the job of a professor's assistant, Tracey! You could've stayed on the Orange Islands," Ash said.

"You and Misty would've killed each other the moment I left the two of you alone."

Ash shrugged, "I mean you're not wrong."

"Let me guess you know him too?" Goh said, almost tiredly.

"Yep! Tracey traveled with me when I competed in the Orange Islands."

Professor Oak laughed, "It's also good to see you again, Goh."

"You remember me?" Goh said, with a surprised blush on his face.

"Of course! How could I forget the boy who tagged a ride on a lugia!" Professor Oak said.

"Wait, really?! But uh Ash did that too," Goh said hesitantly.

Professor Oak let out a very heavy laugh, "Oh, that's not out of the usual for Ash."

"I take it that is why you're so calm with the reason for this visit?" Sir Aaron said, making himself known to the room.

"That's one of the reasons! The other was curiosity; I have some questions for you," Professor Oak said, shaking Sir Aaron's hand.

"I've been getting that a lot recently," Sir Aaron muttered, probably to himself.

Ash caught an odd glimmer in his older relative's eye, and he didn't think it was a happy one. Ash had never been very good at picking up on people's body language, facial expressions, or general social interactions. At least with humans, with Pokémon he was almost psychic, understanding everything without a word. However, that wasn't the case when it came to Sir Aaron. Ash could understand the knight's body language almost fluently and that was actually normal for him apparently.

Aura users despite being very reclusive in culture by nature, they were actually very social. Aura and the spirit were one, and within the spirit was emotion, if one could see the spirit, one could see the true emotion. They were practically a nation of empaths; sensing each other's feelings, and sharing each other's thoughts. At least that's what Sir Aaron told him (Ash immediately compared them to an alien hivemind from an old movie he liked to watch, which lead to a conversation of trying to explain the trope to Sir Aaron, but it only confused the knight further). And Ash was starting to feel the effect of the connection.

It was pretty clear that, while Sir Aaron said he was fine, all the questions regarding their lost culture was probably getting to him. Frankly, Ash could understand why, if he had grown up able to sense the emotions of all his friends like that, the new found silence for him would be deafening. The dark-haired trainer was very happy to learn that a new "hivemind" thing would eventually form between him and Sir Aaron, as well as Riolu and Lucario. Maybe even Riley and his sister too, if they were ever found. It wouldn't be the same thing as a whole nation of users, but it might make the whole stuck in a different century thing easier on the knight. Sir Aaron at least deserved that after all he was doing to save the world, and he was family after all.

Ash never had much of a family outside of his mother and Pokémon, but he held them close to his heart and would do anything to make them smile. Of course, the same standards would apply to Sir Aaron and Lucario when this was all over.

"Professor?" Goh said, "Have you or Tracey found anything on Professor Gen yet?"

Professor Oak sighed, rubbing the back of his neck, "Unfortunately not yet. Lorelei was always very private with her work, never shared anything with anybody unless it was required."

"But we still have a lot of files to go through," Tracey said.

"I can give you hand, I'm good at online research," Goh said.

Professor Oak nodded, "Tracey, get a station set up for him."

"Right away professor!" Tracey said.

"Now Ash, I do have a question to ask you," Professor Oak said.

"What?"

"Would you mind if we borrow Riolu for a moment?" Professor Oak stated.

"Why?" Ash tilted his head.

"The professor has started to make short videos about individual Pokémon species and post them on the lab's website," Tracey said.

"The lab has a website?" Ash asked.

"Yeah, you didn't know?"

"I'm not really good at tech, Tracey."

"Oh, right, yeah so anyways we haven't been able to find a Riolu to film with. Would yours mind?"

Ash looked down at the small blue and black Pokémon, who was still gazing starry-eyed at Lucario. It was honestly kind of adorable that Riolu was idolizing Lucario, Ash just hoped the baby Pokémon wouldn't pick up on some of Lucario's grumpy behavior.

"Riolu? You want to be in their video?"

"Olu?"

"You don't need to anything to difficult," Tracey said, "We'll just need you to run around, what Professor Oak talks."

Riolu nodded.

"Wonderful, in the meantime, why don't you head out into the gardens Ash," Professor Oak suggested, "There are a lot someones out there who are quite excited to see you."

A big smile appeared on Ash's face.

Lucario watched, as Ash's demeaner changed from slightly solemn and dim, to excited and burning. Clearly whoever was in the garden was someone he was happy to see. The running towards the pair of the crystal doors was also every telling.

"Why don't you join Ash?" Sir Aaron suddenly spoke up.

Should I, Master? He seems to know this place well.

"I think you'll enjoy it outside more than in here. The professor and his assistant will be busy as will Goh and I."

You, Master?

"Goh said he would explain how to operate a search engine to me."

Lucario raised a confused brow, ear drooping and head tilting.

"I don't know what it is either, but it is apparently a necessary skill in the future."

For humans you mean.

Sir Aaron nodded, "Besides, someone should probably be with Ash in case of an...incident."

Perhaps it best a join Ash then.

Sir Aaron nodded.

Lucario headed for the same doors, Ash exited. Walking through them just in time to see Ash standing in front of a herd of rampaging tauros.

Okay, maybe greeting his tauros head on wasn't the best idea, but how was Ash supposed to know that they would accidentally launch him in the sky? Well, hindsight was 2020 and at least it ended with him getting a hug from Muk. And nothing bad had happened!

ASH!

Ash flinched at the harsh spike of telepathy, the closest thing to a shout he would ever hear from Lucario. Speaking of Lucario, had the aura Pokémon followed him? Ash didn't hear him open the door. Oh, jeez...had he seen all that?

Get away from the boy you slimy fiend!

"Pikapi!"

Okay, yep definitely time to get up now. Ash scrambled out of Muk's hug and stood up. Getting between the confused poison type, and aura guardian.

"Put the aura sphere down!" Ash said, "It's okay Lucario!"

Okay? You were being held captive by a mount of poison. Did your mother not warn you about how dangerous their venom was to humans?

"What Muk? Lucario, Muk is one of my Pokémon. I caught him in Gringey City back when I was a rookie trainer. He's a big softy, literally. He doesn't even poison Professor Oak or Tracey when I'm not here."

"Pi Pikachu!"

Lucario's battle stance eased, the aura sphere dissipating, A tamed swamp creature. How strange.

Muk only glanced at Ash before slithering off to play with other Pokémon in the pasture and to probably put some distance between him and Lucario. Not that Ash could blame him, Muk hadn't been in as many battles as some of the others and Lucario was scary when the aura Pokémon wanted to be.

"Swamp creature?" Ash raised a brow, "Hadn't heard that one before."

I suppose the term has fallen out of favor in this century.

Ash shrugged, "I wouldn't know, I've never really focused on what was popular. Why would I call Muk that anyway?"

Does that species no longer occupy swamps and still water sources anymore?

"I mean they can but their mostly found in sewers systems these days."

Lucario nodded, So, you grew up here?

"Yeah, good old pallet town. Something wrong with it?" Pikachu jumped onto his shoulder.

No, it's...just not what I was expecting.

"And what were you expecting?"

"Pi?"

Well, outside of a few villages, Rota, vermillion and Shalor, I don't really have much experience with human settlements. Maybe I thought you would be from a modern city like them.

Ash snorted, "Heck no. I mean if my mom wandered into a big city as a pregnant amnesiac, she probably wouldn't have gotten any help. Not like small town people did anyway. Here everyone knows everyone's name and we call keep each other's secrets. In big cities people barely know who's next-door."

I wouldn't know the difference. The most humans I've come in contact, was the knights in Rota and the healers of the aura temple.

"There's a whole temple for Aura?"

Lucario nodded, It was the epicenter of the Aura Guild; a vault of knowledge and history. Every guardian was sent there to be trained...You had not heard of it?

Ash shrugged, "No."

The jackal Pokémon's gaze slinked to the ground, the pair of blood red glittering with a mix of confusion, concern, and denial. His long ears swiveling slightly, like a twitch.

"Something wrong?" Ash said.

"Pi?"

It's just another piece of knowledge that leads to more questions.

"What do you mean?"

The Aura Guild is...was one of the main systems of protection for the world. They were a powerful force that kept balance and peace between the human race and legendries, that existed all over the world. Every single aura user, and bloodline was allied with them...and yet they didn't find you.

"Well, I'm from a small town and single parent family so not that many connections. It isn't weird..."

No, users always know where each other are, and who is part of their fold. They always knew. If they never found you. That means they weren't looking...

"So, what? Maybe they don't need anymore. You said there were a lot of families that were all aura users."

And Mew said they had all run dry; they would need you even if they still had the bloodlines of old. Ash, where are they?

The young trainer sighed, "I wish I could tell you."

The mood grew somber quickly. Ash felt useless we it came to this. For someone who had come in contact with way too many Celebi he was bad when it came to time displaced people. Everyone always asked Sir Aaron how it was for him, but no one ever asked Lucario.

"Are you okay?" Ash asked.

I am conflicted...I know that centuries have passed and the world is different...however...I can't understand how an entire culture, one in Arecus's favor, can just seemingly vanish.

Ash opened his mouth to answer, but the dark-haired trainer was suddenly cut off by rumbling bang of an explosion. His head whirled towards the sound, with a quiet gasp. Pikachu's tail and ears pricked up in high alert, on his shoulder. As startling as it was, Ash had little fear. He was pretty sure he knew what it was from.

What was that?

Ash started running.

Over the closest hill, in the bottom of the small valley below, a Nidoking and Arcanine faced each other. Their eyes locked into an intense glare. The Nido snarled, while an enraged growl slipped out of the Arcanine's throat.

Ash bit his lip. Despite the seemingly perfect habitat that the lab's ranch was and the fact that most of the Pokémon here were usually docile due to having trainers, fighting would still sometimes happen on the grounds. It was one of the main reasons that only lab staff and experience trainers were allowed on the grounds without supervision. Anyone else needed expressed permission and sometimes an escort if they were considered underaged.

...Not that this rule stopped a little Ash from playing with the Pokémon in fields. Needless to say, the 16-year-old had plenty of experience when it came to breaking up scuffles between the residents of the lab.

In between the two fully formed Pokémon was a small spot of green. Bulbasaur. Of course, the little grass type was in the middle of this. It was Bulbasaur's nature to keep the peace between others. He took care of his home and the harmony of it. Something that both trainer and Pokémon shared. And not that Ash didn't have faith in Bulbasaur, but the tension was high and Ash knew that this situation could go south fast.

Bulbasaur's red eyes kept swapping between each agitated Pokémon, his vine whips held out like hands to keep the other two separated. This careful attention seemed to be keeping enough peace to stop a brawl from happening. However, that peace was broken for just a moment, when Bulbasaur glanced over long enough to recognize his trainer. Then all hell broke loose.

Heat built up in the Arcanine's mouth, flames could be seen licking the stark white fangs and the Nidoking's tail began to gleam with poisonous power.

All thought left Ash's head and impulse took over.

Legs pushed him forward.

Something warm and leafy in his arms.

Dirt scraping his clothing in skin as he rolled.

The heat of a flamethrower attack.

Pikachu screaming.

The buzzing panic Lucario gave off.

"Hydropump!"

A familiar voice snapped Ash's senses back into place.

His back was to the ground, Bulbasaur in his arms, the battle, or the tail end of it really, on his right side. Nothing felt broken, but he stayed still. Not knowing if the adrenaline had really worn off. Pikachu came running over to him, screaming, "Pikapi" the nickname the mouse had given to dark-haired trainer. Lucario had all but beaten the Nidoking into the ground, pinning the larger pokemon by twisting back one of the purple arms and forcing a black paw into the armored back. The Arcanine...was currently being sprayed by a Blastoise. A very familiar Blastoise.

"Skull Bash!"

A pale glow surrounded Blastoise as the water type rushed forward, ramming into the arcanine at full speed. The fire type stumbled backward with a whimper, before running off.

Ash closed his eyes and sighed in relief, hearing footsteps walking towards his head. Opening his eyes, he was met with a shock of acorn brown hair and a smug face.

"Well, well, well if it isn't Ashyboy," Gary said with a smirk, but offering a hand.

"Oh, shut up, Oaktree," Ash said with his own smirk, and took the offered limb.

Hands clasped together strongly, Gary pulled Ash up to his feet, cackling good naturedly.

"You, okay?" Ash said turning back to Bulbasaur. The grass type smiled and licked his trainer with a wide wet tongue, making Ash laugh.

"Pikapi!" Pikachu squealed running over, and climbing up the dark-haired trainer's clothing, "Chaa!"

"I'm okay," Ash said, feeling Lucario's mild concern and raging frustration over what just happened as the aura Pokémon came closer.

"I see you're still reckless," Gary said, "I had the situation under control, you know."

"And you're still arrogant," Ash said, "But at least you got rid of the cheerleaders."

Gary flinched, "I was young, and stupid okay."

Ash laughed, "So was I, but I never wanted cheerleaders."

"No, you just stayed stupid," Gary said.

Ash gave him a flat look, and Gary cackled.

I take it you are familiar with this human, Ash?

Gary's cackling cut off with something almost like a choke, but his mouth stayed wide open. Ash wanted to laugh again, the great Gary Oak, grandson of the Professor who created the pokedex, stunned to silence. While he and Gary had been on better, less competitive and somewhat slightly more mature, terms, their rivalry wasn't dead. Ash treasured every moment of something throwing Gary Oak off his rhythm that the dark-haired trainer got to witness. Today was a good day. A good day indeed.

"Ash? Did that Lucario just talk?" Gary said, not taking his eyes off of, a now very smug looking, Lucario.

"Well, technically he's using telepathy, but yeah," Ash said.

"You knew about this?!" Gary said.

"Gary, Lucario's been able to do that since I met him."

"And how did you meet him?"

"Releasing him from an ancient staff that belonged to one of my aura guardian ancestors, and then going on a rescue mission to save Pikachu after he was kidnapped by Mew," Ash said with a confident deadpanned.

Gary looked confused for a moment, before laughing, "Yeah, right! Come on, what really happened?"

Ash speaks the truth.

Gary's dark viridian eyes darted between Ash and Lucario. The former couldn't stop the smile on his from spreading.

"So...Ash what the hell?" Gary said.

Ash started laughing.

"When did this happen? What news story did I miss?"

"I don't think it was broadcasted," Ash choked out through his laughter.

"Who wouldn't broadcast that?!"

Ash laughed harder, Pikachu joining in.

I take it you are...friends?

Ash let Bulbasaur climb onto the shoulder that Pikachu didn't occupy and whipped the tears from his eyes, "Yeah, Lucario, meet Gary, he's Professor Oak's grandson. We grew up together. But I wouldn't call us friends."

"Oh, hell no," Gary said.

"Friendly rivals? Yes. Friends? No. Because he is an asshole," Ash said, pointing at Gary with his thumb.

"Agreed...Wait...Shut up!" Gary said, after realizing the second part of Ash's sentence meant.

Ash cackled again.

It's a pleasure to meet you Gary, house of Oak. Lucario nodded.

Gary's bewildered look made Ash laugh even harder, "Nice to meet you too," The young researcher said, confusedly.

"So, what are you doing here Gary? I thought you were galivanting around Unova," Ash said.

"Small break home before heading out again, I think I have a lead on a moltres," Gary said, "And 'galivanting'?"

"I've been hanging out with a time-displaced knight from the 1300s for the past few weeks," Ash said.

I have never heard Master use that term. Now perhaps you could tell me what possessed you to nearly kill yourself just now, Ash?

"Uhm...hehe..."

Chapter Text

Goh on any other day, under any other situation, would've been thrilled to be allowed to use the technology at the Great Professor Oak's laboratory. It was literally a dream that every young Pokémon researcher had at some point, to work at the lab that created the pokedex, and helped the legendary Professor Willow (now retired) perfect pokeball technology. Yeah, any other day Goh would have been jumping for joy and bouncing up and down.

But today wasn't any other day. Nor would the foreseeable future would be any other day.

His friend had a terrorist group hunting him down, had magic powers, and apparently had met nearly every single most powerful Pokémon in the world. That wasn't something, Goh had ever thought he would have to deal with. Because, one, Goh never really had many friends in the first place, and two, who does this ever happen to?! Within in the past month the young trainer learned more about Ash then he ever thought there was the learn.

Outwardly, Ash seemed like an open book, a very simple open book. Cheerful guy who wanted to be a trainer rather than any other career path, choosing a battle license instead of any degree. He was a lovable reckless goofball, that was amazingly good at understanding battles and Pokémon. At least that's what Ash was if people didn't know him. Ash was a trainer, yes, but a trainer who had seen things and met people that should've been impossible, and was apparently "Arceus's chosen one". Whatever the hell that meant!

Goh couldn't even be mad at Ash for not telling him about all this stuff. He only got a basic summery of all that the dark-haired trainer went through, and even then there were a lot things that weren't said, but Goh could tell Ash probably didn't want to dig all of it up. Though, some part of the young researcher wanted Ash to write a biography just to see it all on paper. Hell, Goh would offer to be the ghost writer! He'd probably wouldn't have to offer anyway. The chance that Ash didn't know how to use a word processor was very high.

Speaking of a lack of technologic understanding, apparently that clueless face wasn't just an Ash thing. Sir Aaron had one that rivaled and mirrored Ash's in such a way it was almost terrifying. Who knew that facial expressions could be genetic? Thankfully, however information seemed to stick easier with Sir Aaron than with Ash.

"Alright, I believe I understand...somewhat. Just to clarify, the computer acts like the library just one that isn't physical, and the search bar is the book keeper, but you do not speak to it. Instead, your communicate through the keyboard?" Sir Aaron said.

"That's one way to think about it," Goh said, "But unlike libraries you can't just ask in full sentences. The computer searches its databases, the books in the metaphorical library, by identifying the words in the search bar...at least that's how this one works. So, you'll want to use key words that relate to what you're searching for, like right now I'm currently searching the names, 'Lorelei', 'Gen', and 'evolution'."

"And is it that working?"

Goh sighed, "Not really..."

"Perhaps, you should remove 'Gen' from the search bar? If her children carry the name and she was not married at the time of her studies it could mean that 'Gen' is not her maidan name. Therefore, it would not be relevant to her work, yet?"

Goh snapped his fingers, and went to adjust his search, "Now you're getting it! And thanks for reminding me, I kinda forgot people did that."

"Is a maidan taking her husband's name not a custom anymore?"

"Well, it depends on the people and their preferences, I guess. My parent did it, but my aunts kept their maidan names because they thought the tradition was outdated. And I guess the LGBTQ+ community chooses whether or not they want to do it considering that custom was invented when people weren't as accepting as they should've been of that community. So, it doesn't really matter what happens anymore. Heck, there are some guys who take their wives names."

Sir Aaron hummed thoughtfully.

"...Would you just calm down, it's not like the first time I've jump between two pissed off Pokémon!" Ash's voice carried through the slightly ajar door.

And you informed me that the first incident ended in your untimely demise! I had the situation handled. You had no reason to get involved in the territorial dispute.

"Why does this conversation feel so familiar?" Spoke an unfamiliar voice.

The door opened fully, letting in Ash, who now had both a Bulbasaur and Pikachu on his shoulders, Lucario, and someone Goh didn't know. The stranger was a kid, probably around his and Ash's age, with deep dark green eyes and spiky chestnut hair.

"Probably because your grandfather gave it to me all the time when we were little kids, and I snuck in the pasture to play with the Pokémon," Ash said flatly.

"Yeah, that's why," Chestnut said.

So, this is a pattern of behavior?

Ash rolled his eyes, "Once again, calm down. It doesn't happen as often as you think."

In the short time I have known you I can name over three instances where your actions have nearly gotten you killed.

"Ah, and what is this debate about?" Sir Aaron chimed in.

Your descendant has a death wish. Lucario said stalking over to his human partner.

"It's not a death wish," Ash groaned, "I'm impulsive! I can't help it if I jump into the middle of a fight with no plan! I don't think! I just do!"

Both Pikachu and Bulbasaur murmured like they agreed.

Do you not have an issue with this.

"Lucario if you'd had known me at Ash's age, you wouldn't see much of a difference between us," Sir Aaron said.

"Wait, seriously?" Ash said, seemingly surprised.

"Youth and foolishness come hand and hand, and I was no exception to that," Sir Aaron chuckled.

"I'm sorry who are you?" Chestnut said.

"Oh, right, sorry Gary," Ash said, "This is Sir Aaron, he's a distance relative."

Sir Aaron stood up shaking Gary's hand, "It's a pleasure."

"'Sir'?" Gary said, "I didn't anyone got knighted anymore."

"I'm a rather...special...case," Sir Aaron said.

"You'd have to be. Gary Oak nice to meet you," Gary said, before turning to Ash, "I didn't know you have any family outside of Pallet."

"Uh, yeah this is a more recent discovery," Ash rubbed the back of his neck.

"Wait a minute!" Goh suddenly shouted, spinning around in his chair, almost falling out of it as it came to a stop, "Gary Oak? As in grandson of Professor Samuel Oak? The youngest Pokémon researcher of the decade!?"

"Yep, that me..." Gary said in a small voice.

"Ash why didn't you tell me you knew him!?" Goh said.

"Well, to me Gary has always been the guy who shoved my face into a cake at my sixth birthday party," Ash said with a flat face.

Gary blushed, and groaned, his embarrassment showing, "You're never letting that go, are you?"

"You wasted a perfectly good chocolate cake that day, it was the most horrifying thing I've ever seen," Ash said, and Lucario glared at Gary as if he performed an unforgivable deed.

Gary sighed, "Any way, yeah, I'm him. Please don't ask for an autograph."

"Oh, yeah, yeah, don't worry I won't bother you. I mean it's just a lot of your work is really fascinating and well done. The paper you did on the relations between Pokémon migration and weather patterns, actually kinda helped me track down a lugia so..." Goh said, rubbing the back of his neck, while the Raboot at his feet only looked at him boredly.

"Wait really?" Gary said.

Goh nodded.

"That was my first paper, it was honestly just made to practice publishing. I didn't think anyone would use it. What kind of patterns do you look for to conclude on a Lugia sighting?" Gary said.

"Well...I'll have to looked back on my notes if you want a complete answer, and I didn't really understand what I was actually tracking. I knew it would be big, but nothing more," Goh said.

"Well, I guess considering it wasn't exactly complete data you were working off of, you wouldn't know that, but I would like the read those notes of yours, if you wouldn't mind?" Gary said.

"O-oh, Yeah, no problem. I'm pretty sure it was either clear skies or cirrus clouds out that day. Ash, do you remember?" Goh said.

"Uh...You think I would remember the weather was like when we rode on the back of a Lugia?" Ash said.

"Fair point," Goh said.

The sound of tiny paws scraping against the tile floor slowly became louder. Quickly, Riolu rounded the corner from one doorless entry way. A little happy hop in the blue and black Pokémon's step, a proud smile on his muzzle, and tail wagging. However, the elderly man that was Professor Oak, looked a little worse for wear when he entered, holding an icepack to the back of his head.

"Grandpa?" Gary said raising an eyebrow.

"What did you do?" Ash said look right at Riolu. The little Pokémon kept the proud smile on his face, but his tail dropped.

"He did great," Tracey said walking in, muffling his laughter behind his palm.

"We got the needed, footage. I'm sure it will be informative to someone," Professor Oak said, "How is your research coming?"

"Slower than I would like to admit," Goh said, "I'm not getting anything."

The professor sighed removing the ice pack from his head, "It might be that Lorelei took all her research with her went she left."

"What exactly are you looking for?" Gary said.

"Well, apparently, I also have cousin, and well we think that her mom was once one of the Prof.'s students," Ash said, "And we're trying to get in contact with her through her mom."

"Cousin?" Gary raised a brow, "How much family do I not know about?"

"Only one more Riley, my nephew and Ash's other cousin," Sir Aaron said.

"But he was kidnapped by a terrorist group not long ago," Ash said.

Gary blinked.

"I know how it sounds, but the group that took Riley is also going after all of us, so we really need to find her," Ash said.

"Okay? Well, when was your aunt a student?" Gary said.

Ash gave him a confused look.

"You said she was your cousin's mom," Gary explained.

"Well, Lorelei was one of the first students, I took on. It was in the Lab's early days. Before the Tri-Team War in fact," Professor Oak said.

"So, then wouldn't her records still be paper back. I mean when the lab switched to digital a few years back, we only translated relevant files into code," Gary said.

Tracey snapped his fingers, "And since Professor Gen hasn't been here in decades her records wouldn't be considered relevant. They're in the storage room!"

Professor Oak, took off the ice on his head, and sighed, "They should be, but there is nothing G section with her name on it."

"Why are you looking in the 'G' section? Gen isn't her maiden name," Goh said.

The look of embarrassed realization came across the researcher's face, said it all.

"I knew I was forgetting a variable," Professor Oak mumbled.

Tracey, tapped on the table a few times before standing up abruptly and walked out of the room. His determined pace, was enough to make everyone follow him. Down the ivory halls and into a small back room in the middle of the building. The old lights inside the room were flicked on and rows of file boxes were bathed in a show of flickering humming light.

"Okay, now we just have to check every section's 'L's," Tracey said, "No time like the present."

Despite the very obvious difference between now and the scenario that Sir Aaron was remembering, there was something nostalgic about looking through shelves of old writings. It reminded him of his training days, looking through the library's scrolls back at the temple as a young user, still trying to master his skill. Learning about his potential through the documented stories of the great guardians of the past. They were the only kind of scroll he had an easy time reading actually. Young him didn't have the patience to read through a scroll of law or instruction.

Though, there were still the differences that couldn't be ignored. Files and scrolls were completely different things after all. The way they were stored and organized, their shapes and sizes, even the way that they held information was different. Scrolls were always handwritten. The parchment or paper was rolled up tightly then stored on shelves. Stacked with what the archivists' called organization, but no one could ever understand their system. Files were flat, kept in folders (a very bland name for a device that was a poor excuse of a book cover), and lined up in boxes.

Ash sneezed very loudly on the other side of the room. Well, at least that was a similarity. Both scrolls and files were very dusty.

At least that's what the physical version of files were like.

Sir Aaron couldn't even begin to describe files that were, as Goh put them, digital. As far as he could tell, digital files weren't something you could hold, but the information was still the same. How it worked Sir Aaron had no clue, the only logical answer his mind held was they were magic. At least the object reminded him of the file symbol he saw on the screen part of the computer (or was it the computer part of the screen. He couldn't remember). With the old files in his hands, it was nice to see similarities between it and the digital versions.

"A-Hah!" Professor Oak exclaimed.

Sir Aaron nearly jumped at the rather energetic mannerisms of the elder man. Honestly, he hadn't expected the famed head of the professors to be so eccentric, but the knight didn't mind. In many ways Professor Oak was like Old Sage Merlin, at least before the teacher's nervous breakdown. Reminiscing aside, the knight was more interested in the files that Professor Oak was excitedly pulling out of the box.

"Here they are," Professor Oak said, "Well, all that Lorelei didn't take with her when she left," He handed the files to Goh, "Hopefully you'll find what you need in here."

"Thank you, professor," Goh said, already opening the one on the top of rather short manilla colored stack.

"Well, it seems like I've arrived just at the right moment," Spoke a feminine voice.

"Mom!" Ash screamed, running towards the entrance of the room, aura bursting with happiness.

Sir Aaron turned around. A soft smile blooming on his face, without him thinking about it. The scene before him was a joyful one. Ash clung to a woman who was a half a head taller than the lad. Her hair a reddish brown that was tied back in a swooping ponyta-tail, and her own smile matched her son's. When they pulled apart, Sir Aaron could see the stunning shade of brown that colored her eyes. Ash had told him that his eyes came from his mother, but the knight hadn't realized that the stunning eyes would match the rest of her beauty. They truly were a rich shade, and it strangely familiar, though they were probably just reminding him of Ash's own pair.

Pikachu all but squealed with delight. The yellow mouse, jumped onto the woman's shoulders, nuzzling her head and neck. The Pokémon's aura singed with joy.

"What are you doing here?" Ash said.

"Professor Oak keeps me in the loop whenever you plan on visiting home," The lad's mother said, rubbing Pikachu's head, "It's nice to see you too Pikachu."

"Chaaa..."

She chuckled, "You as well, Goh. How have you been doing?"

"Hello, Ms. Ketchum," Goh said, "I'm fine. Why do you ask?"

"Oh, it's just I've heard you've had the first taste of the bizarreness that tends to happen to our family. I was worried," Mrs. Ketchum said.

"Wait, you know all about this weird stuff?" Goh said.

Mrs. Ketchum smiled, "Of course, I was kidnapped by an Entei at one point."

Her eyes looked from the human lad, and traveled downward, completely ignoring the shocked look on Goh's face. The brown pair settled on Riolu with a look of welcoming love. The pup, peering out from behind Ash's legs. She kneeled down, and reached out a hand. Her movement gentle and comforting. The moment her dainty fingers, began to stroke Riolu's head the pup all but melted. The little Pokémon leaned into touch with a pleased smile.

"It's wonderful to final meet you Riolu," she said.

The little Pokémon's rosy eyes sparkled with adoration as he gazed up at the human woman.

Sir Aaron's own gaze however began to swell with curiosity. Mrs. Ketchum was no aura user, not even a dormant. Her soul didn't burn and blaze like a wild fire, or turn and thrash like a stormy sea. It was a merely a non-user spirit, calm like a candle lit wick, peaceful like a small pool. Yet, it still radiated such a strong feeling of love, safety and trust. Just the fact that Riolu went from cautious of her to loyal until the end for her with just a single touch...Well it spoke of what kind of person Mrs. Ketchum was.

No wonder Ash was so special.

Mrs. Ketchum stood up with a smile, and Riolu ran to hug her leg, his tail wagging so fast it was blurring. She smiled down at the pup, before looking upward. The brown eyes looking towards him? Why did his mouth suddenly feel so dry?

Sir Aaron swallowed, walking forward, nodding his head in greeting, "Mrs. Ketchum."

Mrs. Ketchum reached out her hand, unfolding it from where it had been clasped with the other in front of her. Her grip was strong and steady, not gentle as he was used to when greeting maidens.

"Delia," She smiled, "No, Mrs. is required. I don't think I'm married. I take it your Sir Aaron?"

"Yes, madam, it's a pleasure to meet the woman who raised my newest pupil," Sir Aaron said.

"He hasn't been any trouble, has he?" Mrs. Ketch...Delia said.

"Mom," Ash groaned.

"I'm sorry sweetie, but you're track record when it comes to teachers hasn't been the best," Delia winced.

"It's not my fault that rattata escaped," Ash said.

"But you were the one who put him in your bookbag sweetheart," Delia said.

"I thought he was hurt! I didn't know he was pretending," Ash said, "Besides, it only took a long weekend and six teachers to return order to the school."

Delia sighed, "Well, did you all find what you were looking for here?"

"Hopefully," Goh said, fiddling with the files again, "Whether or not it will help us...Well...we'll find out."

"Then I suggest you start looking into those tonight, after we've had dinner. In fact, we should be getting back to the house," Delia looked back at Sir Aaron, "And don't worry I've already prepped our guest room for you. The boys can share Ash's bedroom."

"Madam I don't want to impose..." Sir Aaron tried to say out of reflex.

"Oh, don't start," Delia face twisted into an expression of blankness, "After all you're doing for my family, the least I can do is offer a bed for the night and a hot meal. Besides where else would you sleep, underneath a tree?"

Sir Aaron knew when a war was not worth fighting, and not even a magic rock tree would help him win against the foe known as Delia Ketchum.

Chapter Text

The gentle cool breeze was fresh, and the ground below his paws was still damp with evening dew. The forest behind the little red and white cottage was lush and green, sending soft sounds of night drifting in the wind towards him.

Lucario breathed a sigh through his snout. He felt strangely at peace here. Pallet Town wasn’t a bustling city, or a very grand place to live, but it was charming and quaint. Close enough to the forest to connect to the wild Pokémon, but civilized enough for humans to live without much conflict. His ear flicked, and he stared up at the clear sky with a subtle smile. Even the stars found this a suitable place. Though, Ash’s home was closer to the woods then the downtown of Pallet, and Lucario found that the stars did not favor cities. Perhaps they were merely here for Ash and his family.

Speaking of family, Lucario now knows where Ash got his stubborn streak. Maiden Delia was a more like a mother Pokémon then a human one in Lucario’s opinion. It was obvious from the start that unless you had an actual logical argument to discuss with her, her word was law. However, with her loving and kind nature it never felt as if the environment was oppressive. It felt safe. Like nothing horrible would ever happening in this cottage and the surround village, and if something were to happen, Maiden Delia would fight to keep everyone safe.

And considering the number of actions Lucario had seen Ash take to protect others, there was no doubt that the lad’s mother was willing to do the same.

However, the peace of outside garden wouldn’t last forever. Behind Lucario, the soft footsteps of a small pair of paws could be heard coming closer. He turned around finding the pup coming near him.

“Rio (Hello).”

“Lu car (Little one).”

“Ri lu (What are you doing)?”

“Ca Lu Car (Watching the perimeter).”

“Ri (Why)?”

“Rio Lu Ca (to ensure the safety of the humans. They are not prepared for a sudden attack).”

“Olu Ri (sudden attack? Mom said that the wild Pokémon don’t bother the humans).”

“Lu cari ca (Not just the wild Pokémon, but Team Rocket could appear as well),” Lucario’s brows furrowed, “Ri (mom?).”

“O lu Ri (Miss Delia, all the others call her mom. And I never had a mom so, I wanted too too).”

Lucario hummed, “Ca lu Lucar Rio (Never? Do you not remember your birth mother? Did you not feel her from within the shell?)”

Abandoned? The pup was abandoned. Lucario was angry, but not unsurprised. Sadly, that was the only picture of where this little one came from. Packs were a place of safety, but they could also be shockingly paranoid. If Riolu’s mother had been killed before her offspring were to hatch…it wasn’t uncommon for the males to cast out eggs that had less chances of surviving, once the mother was out of the picture. Especially if a new female took charge and said egg wasn’t one of their own.

Riolu looked like he was in deep thought for a moment, before shaking his head, “Olu ri ri O olu (I remember feeling safe and loved, but then she was gone. Her trainer probably didn’t want me, so they left me at the daycare. Eggs are a lot of work. A lot of trainers don’t like to bother with an egg.)”

Lucario nearly growled, but silenced himself. Humans. They were a confusing race. Some like Ash and master, being so kind as to give their lives for the sake of their loved ones and duties. Yet, in the world there were humans who are willing to separate a mother from her pup out of mere inconvenience.

“Lucari Car Rio (So, you never knew your pack then)?”

The pup tiled his head confused, young red eyes sparkling with curiously, “Olu (Pack?)”

Lucario resisted reacting to the deep aching wave of disbelief and righteous rage that threated to drown his stone heart into softening. Did this little one, know nothing of his heritage and culture? Mostly, likely not. Being raised by humans. Good humans, but humans none the less.

“Lu cari ca lu Rio Lu Ca Cari (A pack little one. In the wild they would be the ones to raise and train you. Teach you how to hunt and fend for yourself. Protect you.)”

“Rio Olu (I don’t think we have those any more. We have trainers.)”

“Lu Cari lu (perhaps, but history has its purposes otherwise no one would bother to learn it.)”

Riolu hummed, “Ri olu (But I don’t know how to learn history.)”

Lucario was saved from the impending snort by Ash opening the back door of the cottage, to tell them that supper was ready.

Delia made sure to keep her footsteps quiet, despite already wearing slippers on carpet, as she opened the Ash’s bedroom door. The pale light of the hallway, sneaking its way into the darked bedroom. She smiled once the soft snores of the two sleeping boys hit her ears. Ash was curled up on his air mattress like he did whenever he had friends over, allowing Goh to have the loft. Both children snuggled up with their Pokémon while they dreamed.

What did she do to deserve this wonderful life? She figured it was something that took great sacrifice or struggle or something else horrible. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have earned this life. A happy home. A thriving business. A son. Her wonderful little boy.

If only she knew who gave her such a gift.

Still with a warm smile on her face, Delia closed the bedroom door. She shut off the hall light, before descending the stairs back down to the ground floor of her home. The hollow halls of her home, while warm, felt quiet and empty. It was an odd, uncomfortable feeling. One that Delia never understood why she had it. When Ash first left on his journey, she wrote it off as her missing her son, but it wasn’t that she was alone in the house that bothered her. It was how quiet it felt. Like something should be making noise. Delia shook her head, and brushed off the shiver that went down her back. The feeling would be gone by tomorrow. It wasn’t as bad when it was warm outside, anyway.

Delia continued through the home. Shutting off lights, in the empty rooms. A house at night is supposed to be dark. Eventually making it to the front of the house. The living room lights were already off. Lucario curled up on the fluffy rug, that Mrs. Ketchum had knitted together before Delia arrived here. It was actually a sweet sight, and kind of humorous considering how serious the Pokémon tried to act throughout dinner. Oh, this one would be like Charizard. A hard iron shell on the outside, but a mushy heart with in. Delia could tell. She grabbed a heavy quilt from the back off the couch, and draped it over the blue Pokémon. Lucario curled up tighter into the quilt. Yes, a mushy heart indeed.

Smiling to herself, Delia turned around and found the only light left on in the house and the only not sleeping occupant. Sir Aaron was currently sitting at the kitchen table, the small overhead light still on, and papers spread out on the wooden surface in front of him. Delia held back a snort at the confused expression on his face.

For a knight who was from legends that were centuries old, Delia was sort of surprised to learn about how normal Sir Aaron acted. He was polite, and while clearly curious, was respectful of all boundaries that were placed. Delia wasn’t a woman who laid down when other disrespected her. She might be sweet like a daisy, but she was strong like an oak. Thankfully the knight had picked up on this.

He also got along so splendidly with the boys. Ash especially. It was relieving to know that someone had taken such an interest in her son. Male role models had sadly not been abundant in Ash’s life, and it was clear that the two of them were cut from the same cloth. Energic and impulsive, but with a kind heart. For some reason, Delia had no problem imagining a young Sir Aaron falling out of trees or doing some other dangerous stunts that Ash did as a child. And she also hoped that this would be the kind of person Ash might grow up to be one day.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Delia said, walking towards the kitchen table.

The pair pale blue eyes snapped out of their frustrated confusion, and looked up at her, “I’m afraid that the confusion plaguing me wouldn’t be worth a cent of your money, Madam.”

“And what’s the cause of your confusion, Sir knight?” Delia teased.

“Considering what seems to the rules of chivalry be for this modern era, you need not use my title,” Sir Aaron said with a puzzled look.

“Yet, you forget that those rules go both ways. I told you not to call me Madam. It makes me feel like an old ugly crone,” Delia smirked.

“I meant no offense.”

Delia chuckled, “And I took none,” she took out her blue teapot and began to fill it with water from the sink, “Tea?”

Sir Aaron nodded then sighed, “As for your query, I can’t seem to make head nor tails of these modern scrolls.”

“How much are you not understanding?” Delia said, putting the pot on the stove.

“Practically every other word. I am not certain on how to pronounce some of them,” Sir Aaron, picked up a page and shook it to straightened it, “Such as, Ri-ribaso—Ribosoame..?”

“Ribosome?” Delia said taking a seat in the chair next to Sir Aaron.

“If that’s how you say it.”

Delia lightly gripped the top corner of the paper, tilting it towards her slightly. Her brows creased as she searched the page, eventually she nodded.

“Ribosome,” she said with certainty.

“Then what on Arceus’ green world, is a ribosome?”

“I have no idea,” Delia chuckled, picking up a different page that was laid on the table, “Why are you reading these anyway? I thought the boys already looked them over.”

The knight took a deep breath, “I’m not sure. Perhaps, I was hoping to see something they missed. If Professor Gen is my sister’s…If she is Emily’s descendent…maybe I just wanted to see if…”

“…there were similarities?”

Sir Aaron nodded.

Delia remained silent for a moment. Looking for familiarity in the vast unknown was something that she could relate too. Before Ash was born, Delia used to play a game with herself, she’d look into random objects, books, or anything to see if it reminded her of something. She hadn’t been disappointed if that familiarity didn’t give her a flash of memory, just a feeling of déjà vu was all she had been looking for. It wasn’t until she started gardening, and reading up on botany and herbology did she find that familiarity.

Sadly, it seemed that Sir Aaron hadn’t found that yet.

“How would you describe your sister?” Delia asked.

“Well…” Sir Aaron looked puzzled, as if trying to find the right words.

“First three words that pop into your head, when you think of her,” Delia said.

“What?”

“Just do it. Humor me.”

“Uhm Rebellious, confident, kind.”

“So, you wouldn’t describe her as cold and clinical?” Delia said, staring at the page in hand a little more intensely.

“What? No. Not in a century. Emily was probably the warmest person in my family. Passionate and wild. She loved riddles and mysteries.”

“Then I don’t think you’ll find many similarities between her and this Professor Gen.”

“What makes you suggest that?”

“You can tell a lot about a person by the way they write,” Delia said, “and this paper. It’s cold. Facts and numbers, nothing flowery in between. Very clinical,” she hummed, “You said she might be our niece and nephew’s mother?”

“Our…?”

“They are my son’s cousins. They’re my niece and nephew. Don’t you dare argue with me on this.”

Sir Aaron held up his arms in surrender, “I would not ever ponder it, M’lady.”

Delia snorted, but then shook her head, “If she is their mother, I’m worried.”

“How so?”

“If she acts how she writes? How loving of a home did her children grow up in? Has there even been a missing person’s report for either of her children?”

“Missing person’s report?”

“When someone can’t locate a family member of loved one, they have the option of filing for a missing person’s report. It pretty much let’s all the authorities know who to look for and where the missing person was last seen.”

Sir Aaron hummed, “I am uncertain if we have found any.”

Delia felt her brows crease in deep thought. She slapped the page she was holding on the table, while her on her free hand, fingertips rapidly rapped on the wooden table top. The 35-year-old woman abruptly stood up and walked over to one the many drawers underneath her kitchen counter. Sliding the draw open allowed access to a mini world of disorganized pens, pencils, rubber bands, (used and unused) sticky notes, clips, and a couple thumb tacks mixed in. However, Delia ignored all those little nick-nacks, reached into the drawing and pulled out a small slim silver laptop.

“Maybe we can try to find them?” She said turning around, presenting the laptop with a mischievous smile.

“Does everyone have one of those devices in this era?” Sir Aaron said as Delia sat back down.

“Most of us probably. I’m not that good with technology, but I know how to use this old thing. It’s become a necessity for running the restaurant.”

“Truly? What does this device have to do with running your tavern?”

“Oh, it helps me keep in touch with my employees, suppliers, and anyone else involved. Email had practically become my second language. I also use it to keep track of payroll. No one take physical checks these days, only digital.”

Sir Aaron makes a face that reminded Delia of Ash whenever her little boy didn’t understand, “Emails?”

“The are sort of like instant letters.”

“...and they are digital?”

“Yes.”

“Meaning they are not something you actually hold, but read through the computers screen?”

“Yes.”

Sir Aaron nodded, but his face told her that he still wasn’t really sure of what he just said. It was oddly adorable.

By the time that the teapot squealed, sadly they pair of adults didn’t find much. Not that Delia expected too. She only knew how to run a search engine, and how to tell whether or not a source was creditable or not.

“Cream or honey?” Delia asked as she set the tea to stew.

“Honey please,” Sir Aaron said.

“Well, I’d say I’m disappointed with our lack of findings, but considering my sleuthing skills, I’m not surprised,” she said handing the knight his cup.

“You know more than me,” Sir Aaron grinned almost boyishly.

Delia chuckled.

There was a pause. Silence echoing throughout the halls.

“You know, I’ve been meaning to thank you,” Delia said.

“Thank me?” Sir Aaron raised a brow.

“For everything you’ve been doing with Ash. I know my little boy has good instincts, and heart, but he is still young and needs guidance. Some of which I can’t give him. No one has ever really taken interest in him, at least not in the way you have. I know that the situation is worse than how bad Ash tells me it is. He doesn’t want me to worry about him too much. But at least this time, I know he’s not alone. Thank you for that.”

“It’s no trouble, Delia. You’ve raised a bright boy. Ash has been nothing but a delight. You must be proud.”

“Oh, I am. He’s gone so far. Done so much. Always pushing. Sometimes I wonder if that’s a good thing.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“I raised Ash with the ideology that with hard work and determination, he’d be able to do anything. That’s why I always encouraged every interest, and for him to push himself. The other moms called me crazy. Said I was setting him up for disappointment for when he finally failed. That I shouldn’t give him so much hope.”

“Then the other mothers are fools,” Sir Aaron said, shaking his head, “From my understanding, Ash has failed, but every time the lad picked himself back up. Hope drives us to move forward when it feels impossible.”

“That good Sir Knight is a philosophy that I can agree with,” Delia hummed, “To be honest. Hope is what has gotten me this far.”

“Whatever do you mean?” Sir Aaron’s expression turned sullen, and his placed his mug on the table to turn his full attention to the woman in front of him.

“I trust Ash has told you that his father is not in the picture?” Delia said placing her own cup down.

Sir Aaron nodded, “What he knows of the matter. I take it is not a happy tale.”

“Probably not. I don’t remember Ash’s father. Something happened to me before I came to pallet town and I couldn’t remember anything beyond my name,” Delia sighed.

“That must have been difficult.”

“It was, and considering there was a war going on at the time…it was likely that my story was not a happy one.”

“You truly cannot remember him?”

“Not his face. Not his name. I don’t even remember loving him. Sometimes that frightens me,” Delia swallowed, “You know, when Ash was little, I used to make up stories. I told him that his father was a Pokémon Master, one that left to save the world, but never came home. He knows the truth now.”

“Yet, you still wish that he believed the stories over the truth.”

“Is that selfish of me? The stories are probably happier. We couldn’t even find anything on him. Not one relative.”

Sir Aaron’s brow creased in confusion, “What do you mean?”

“There’s this modern-day company. Basically, they take your spit and tell you where your family is from.”

The knight’s expression only grew more confused, “What kind of witchcraft…?”

“It’s not witchcraft. It’s DNA matching.”

“I don’t know what that is either…”

“You don’t need to. Anyway, a few years ago I decided to take a crack at it. We learned that I am mostly kantoian, with a little bit of Johto mixed in, and Ash has 25% of Sinnoh blood along with the regions I’m from. But we didn’t match up to anyone else in their database. Now that could just mean that my family were a bunch of technophobic hermits, but…”

“Still bizarre?”

Delia nodded, “We haven’t looked again after that,” She smiled, “Though, I doubt will need too. We’ll have a niece and a nephew at the least now, won’t we? We’ll rebuild our family.”

Sir Aaron smiled back at her, and Delia felt as if she knew that smile.

Giovonni all but growled as he read the report in front of him. Matori had lost the boy. How had she lost one single teenaged boy? His elite team had been placed in her control. Yet, they couldn’t hold on to one measly teenaged boy! Were they that incompetent? Persian stirred in his master’s lap, looking up with a concerned mew. The terrorist leader felt the nearly overwhelming desire to throw the table in hand at the nearest window.

“It would do you good to keep your emotions in-check.”

This time Giovonni did growl, his beady eyes drifting towards the darkest corner of the room. His current business partner was an odd sort of fellow. He always kept to the dark corners, and every time he entered the room Giovonni felt the hair on the back of his neck stand up. Even Persian was unsettled by the newcomer. However, the offer that he gave to Giovonni was too good to pass up.

“I do not need to keep them in check. Especially, when my grunts are imbecilic morons.”

“Do not blame your foot soldiers. Even if they are barely trained more than first year squires, the lad escaping is far from their fault. The boy is a descendant of the house of Arlon. They are known for being hard to kill.”

Giovonni narrowed his eyes, “So you say they are.”

An echoing chuckle came from the corner, “I have a history with the family, you could say. Despite their great deeds, the bloodline is made up of cruel shallow people. They slip away from consequences and throw each other to the spearows without a second thought.”

“Then if they are such a horrible family, and you despise them so much, then why are you insisting we use them for the ritual?”

“Despite the obvious lack of users?”

Giovonni entertained a nod.

“While hypocrites, they may be. They are also very powerful. And we will need that power.”

“According to you we will.”

The corner was quiet for a moment, “You do not trust me?”

“Caution is a good trait in any businessman. And while your proposal is tempting. I can’t help but feel like you haven’t told me all the variables.”

The darkness began to chuckle once more, “You are more perceptive than I took you for Giovonni. What ‘variables’ do you need to feel more at ease with our agreement?”

“Maybe you could explain just exactly what you are getting out of this plan? You’ve given us all these resources, tips, information. Who and what the aura users are to you. What are you gaining from this?”

“More then you could ever understand.”

Chapter Text

Man, it was windy.

That was the only real thought going through Ash's head. Sure, there were probably more important things to be thinking about, like the fact that the world was in danger by a crazy terrorist organization. But no, this was not the main thought in Ash's head. The world slowly being blown away by a giant aura explosion was not his main concern. He was worried about his hat.

Ash had a reason for always wearing a hat. He was born with the curse of a permanent bed head. His hair was a wild spikey mess no matter what he or mom tried to do to it. Not that he was big on appearances, but that didn't mean he wanted it to be shown off. There was a reason that some of the meaner kids and Pallet Town called him Ashy-Boy. With his hair and the fact that was usually covered in dust or dirt from playing outside he always looked like he was struck by lightning.

The name calling slowly stopped once his started wearing a hat. It also kept dirt and things out of his hair, making it easier to clean. So, to say that he really didn't want the wind to take his hat away, would be an understatement.

Still with one hand on his head, holding his hat. Ash was currently, engaged in a "training exercise" though it looked more like a game of catch combined with hot potato, considering that aura spheres they were using could blow up if mishandled. So, far nothing had blown up today. That was a win.

A blue ball of light suddenly rushed past his head, and Ash nearly stumbled while ducking.

"Ash! Focus!" Sir Aaron called out, recalling the rouge sphere back into his hold. A very faint glow coming from the guardian's icy eyes.

"Sorry!" Ash said, slowly picking himself up from the dusty ground of the cerise labs court yard (no more training involving Aura Spheres in an enclosed area), "How do you keep doing the recall thing? I've never seen an Aura Sphere do that."

"And what have you seen Aura Spheres do?"

"Mostly blow stuff up."

He's not false. That's what they are used for the most. Lucario thought from where he stood at the researchers' set up that Goh was manning. Riolu and pikachu holding on to him. The wind was too strong for the smaller Pokémon, but they still wanted to watch.

"While destruction is possible, and they're most common used in combat scenarios, letting them loose is not the only way to wield them," the knight demonstrated this by whirling the glowing blue ball around his free hand, "Tell me what do you know of Aura Spheres from battles?"

"Well, I know now that they are the user's aura concentrating into a ball. However, before that I knew that it was impossible to dodge. So, I guess it has some sort of way to track its target. That's about it."

"The reason that they can, as you say, 'track its target' is because that's what the wielder willed it to do. The aura sphere will go where ever or strike whatever the wielder wants it too."

"So, since the wielder Pokémon wants to hit their opponent in a battle, then if they keep wanting that the aura sphere would only hit the opponent?"

"Pretty much. Creating an aura sphere requires concentration. Controlling one is no different. You need to clear your mind of other thoughts. Remember it is made of your aura. Your soul. It is yours to control. If you are connected to it, you can control it like your own limb."

"So, you can control our own aura and you can see other people's aura," Goh chimed in rather loudly over the wind, "Then could you in theory control other people's auras?"

Sir Aaron might have stayed calm on the outside, but Ash still felt the internal flinch (Thank you, so much mental bonding). Ash let the silence stretch for a moment.

"While in theory, yes. However, there are some lines that aren't meant to be crossed, Goh," Sir Aaron finally said.

Ash felt curiosity swell up in Goh, even watched as his friend opened his mouth to ask another question, but Goh never got that far. The door to the lab suddenly slammed open, Ren running out. Then the wind blew the door back and it knocked the researcher into the door frame. Everyone flinched at that.

"You good Ren?" Ash called out, as the blond picked himself up.

"Yeah, Yeah," Ren called out, "I'm good! Great in fact! I think I found her!"

"What? Found who?" Goh asked.

"Amanda."

Thunder could be heard rumbling outside even from inside of the lab's walls. Sir Aaron was thankful for Ren's timing. They would've been caught in that storm if he hadn't pulled them into to tell of his breakthrough.

Speaking of...

"So," Ren said taking a sip of his coffee, "As you all know I've been trying to find our mysterious number four for the past few weeks, and I am happy to report that I think I found where she is, or at least where she was."

"That's great Ren!" Ash said.

"How'd you find her?" Goh said.

"Well, I started by searching her name in every, social media platform, trainer database, school systems, missing persons reports-thanks for that idea by the way- and cross referenced them each with the most likely physical features she'd have. You know what I found?" Ren said, spinning around in his rolling chair.

"What?" Ash said, with vigor.

"Absolutely nothing," Ren said, with a blank face.

"Oh," disappointment bled from the younger aura user.

"So," Ren said, whirling back around to pull something up on his computer screen, "considering that my head was deep in research fog, I decided to put on something I didn't need to think too much a about to watch."

Suddenly, some modern music that Sir Aaron could only describe as happy started play in the room. On the main floating screen, fast colorful images of young girls in rather revealing tops and fish tales played.

"In this world we're all alone. You know I love my island home."

Confusion fell over the room in a heavy smog. Uh....

"We'll make this right find our way through this mystery!"

"What? Is this?" Ash said.

"Pi?"

Both Lucario and Riolu tilted their head in a similar, almost comical, manner.

"'Melemele Mermaids'?" Goh finally said.

"That didn't help at all," Ash said, Pikachu shaking his head.

"It's an old show for young girls that used to play on the Disney channel, but it was canceled like seven years ago. The plot was about three young mermaids trying to protect their pod from a land boy who got turned in to a merman. Chloe was obsessed with it when we were little," Goh explained, before raising a brow, "You watch this Ren?"

"It's good for brain numbing, and I don't need to justify my taste in TV to you," Ren said, while messing with the show on screen and then pausing it, "Besides that's not the point, look at the girl who's playing the character Mimmi, or the brunette on the mic."

Ren stood up and walked towards the screen, point at said young lady, "Similar hair, skin tone, and nose shape."

Entertaining what had become a most bizarre situation, Sir Aaron looked back the screen. The girl was about eleven, maybe twelve. A bright smile on her frozen face. Even with her eyes closed she radiated joy. Her black Hair was pulled back into a high spiky ponyta-tail, showing off her small ears. Sir Aaron would be lying to himself if he said there wasn't any resemblance.

"I guess she kind of looks like Riley," Ash said.

"Still similar looking people doesn't mean their family, Ren," Goh said.

"I know, but her looks aren't everything. Out of curiosity I looked up the actress's name," Ren said, the blond sped up the video until the credit sequence, "And guess what her name is, 'Amanda Morgan Gen'."

"Okay, that can't be a coincidence," Goh said.

"My gut told me the same," Ren said, "So, I looked up the show's cast, and ended up finding a paper trail on her."

The show clicked off the screen and a number of pages appeared in its place. Ren pulled up each one up at a time.

"After the cancelation of the show, she made a few appearances in some of other Disney franchises, either voice acting/regular acting, or to release a song and her name was in a few live shows at some theater. However, at some point around five years ago she vanished off the grid. Complete media blackout. Although I did some more digging, and I ended up find a student ID from Ryme City University, where she is currently enrolled as a Psych Major," Ren said.

"Ryme City?" Ash said, "You mean where Professor Gen is supposed to live?"

"That's explains why it's been so hard to find her on a trainer's database," Goh said.

"Why would that be?" Sir Aaron asked.

Ren pulled up a map on the screen, "You see Ryme City is sort of a weird grey area legally. It's right between Sinnoh and Unova but neither region has claim over it."

"Meaning the Pokémon League doesn't govern it," Goh said, "The entre city is self-sufficient with its own laws and regulation regarding Pokémon training. If a trainer gets their license there, they won't show up in the databases until they register for another region's league."

Sir Aaron nodded. He knew of little places that were out of the way, and no one wanted. So, no laws were place there. They were usually places where people ran off never to be found and crime ran ramped. Perhaps Ryme City was more civilized version of these places.

So, currently all we have to do is travel to this Ryme City and find her?

"Ah..." Ren winced, "Sadly, no. I might have looked into school records, and a few weeks ago she swapped all her in-person classes to online ones, and she hasn't been seen on campus for any other reason since."

Mew said that Team Rocket had tried and failed to capture her.

"She wouldn't stay in the city if she was being hunted down," Sir Aaron said.

"So, she's on the run?" Ash said.

"Most likely," Goh said.

Suddenly the world turned black.

All light in the room shut off. Like a gust of wind blew out every candle, expect modern candles can't be blown out. What was happening?

Ren screamed.

"Freeze!" Ash said.

"Pika!"

"Ri!"

Goh jumped, then stumbled over something, crashing into what was mostly the floor. Sir Aaron winced at the sound of the tumble. The outline of Goh's soul still lying flat on the ground. Taking pity on the people in the room who couldn't see in the dark, the knight summoned a very small aura sphere between his index and middle fingers. A buzzing blue glow filled the room.

"Goh? You okay buddy?" Ash said.

"Pi?"

"Ow..." Goh said, picking himself up, "Yeah, I'm good."

What happened?

"The power went out-" Bam!

"Professor Cerise! Are you okay?" Miss Chrysa said, as both she and prementioned Professor entered the room, the blue-haired assistant carrying a very bright, very oddly shaped, torch.

"Yeah," The professor rasped, "There's wall here."

"Astute observation professor," Sir Aaron teased.

"Yeah, thank you it's going to be one of my great discoveries. I should've grabbed that flashlight," Professor Cerise said, rubbing the back of his neck, "Is everyone alright? I heard a tumble."

"That was me! I'm good," Goh said.

"Good," The professor nodded, then his eyes fixed onto the tiny glowing sphere, and pointed at it, "That's cool."

Anyone want to explain why every one of your machines suddenly shut down?

"The electricity got cut off. Without it nothing works. It's like a water mill if the river dries up," Ren said.

"So, the wind blew some branches on to the power lines?" Ash said.

"No," Miss Chrysa said, "Even if that were to happen, the lab runs on a personal generator in the basement, so a cut line wouldn't affect us."

"So, something in the generator broke?" Ash said.

"Possibly," Professor Cerise sighed, "We won't know until we check it out. Ren and Chrysa can you two please go to the upstairs fuse box and try to temporary re-route our systems on to public power? The rest of us will check on the generator."

"Phase one complete."

"Bree."

"I don't like it either, but with everyone hunting me, can you blame me for being skeptical of these guys?"

"Umbreon. Bree."

"I saw them in the yard, but just because he looks like my brother and has magic zappy hands, it doesn't mean he's Riley."

"Umbre. Bree. Eon."

"Family? Even if they, are we both know that word means squat."

"..."

"Don't look at me like that. Are you going to help me or not?"

Umbreon sighed, but nodded.

"So, the electricity travels down the lines like a river flowing down a bed. Then once it reaches the machine it's attached to it powers it. However, unlike a river, if the line breaks the flow stops rather than leeks?" Sir Aaron said.

"Close enough," Goh murmured.

"Incredible," Sir Aaron said.

It's almost like the temple.

"Temple?" Professor Cerise said.

"The main home of the Aura Guardian's guild," Sir Aaron said.

"And the temple had electricity?" Professor Cerise said.

"Well, no...however some of the sages invented doors that could only be opened through aura. The stone locks would move on their own once activated," Sir Aaron said.

"Fascinating," Professor Cerise said.

It was odd walking through the lab when it was this dark. Even at night there was usually, some moonlighting coming through the windows, or a bathroom light left on. But it was around 6:30 pm and the wind storm outside was thick. So, it might has well have been midnight. Which meant Goh, even with the help of his phone's flashlight, was constantly bumping into things. He needed to get better at using a flash light.

The others weren't having as much trouble, well maybe Professor Cerise was having just as much as the younger researcher, but Goh wasn't so sure that the other's had superior flashlight skills. Sir Aaron and Lucario probably have been using aura sight, despite the tiny gleaming Aura Sphere in the knight's hand (That must have been the laziest use of aura that Goh had seen so far, and it made him wonder what else mundane tasks it could be used for). Possibly Ash, as well, but Goh didn't think that his friend was that far in his training.

The basement was the only part of the lab that Goh hadn't ventured down into since he and Ash moved in. It was for a good reason. Goh never liked basements, getting trapped in his Aunts' basement as a little kid would do that to someone. They were always dusty and had this entrapping feeling about them. Like walking into a grave...Well, that was a morbid train of thought that Goh wanted off of.

Thankfully, Goh found a distraction.

"Ash?" Goh said.

"Yeah?"

"Why are you using your phone screen, instead of the flashlight feature?"

"..."

"You don't know how to turn it on, do you?"

"Nope."

Goh sighed, "Okay, first you'll want to swipe down..."

Might as well make this situation a teachable moment for those who are technologically challenged and after a few moments Ash's phone light started to shine.

"Hey Goh?"

"Yeah? Did you forget what you did to turn on the flashlight?"

"Uh, no. But quick question. If the power is out then the router is out, right?"

"It should be."

"Then why does my phone say it is connected to WIFI?"

"What?"

Goh pressed the power button, bringing his phone out of sleep mode. The screen lit up, revealing a picture of Raboot when she was still a scorbunny, fast asleep on a soccer ball. Pressing his thumb print to the warm glass, the device unlocked. The WIFI icon at the top of the screen was filled. He had a strong connection.

"That, that shouldn't be, right. That can't be right," Goh said shaking his head, "The power is out! Nothing's there to keep the router running!"

"Well, nothing except that," Professor Cerise said, gesturing at the generator. A generator that was humming, online.

"Should that be making noise?" Sir Aaron said.

"No. If it had shut down it shouldn't," Professor Cerise said.

"So, power's out but the generator's still running? Anyone else getting horror movie vibes?" Ash said.

Perhaps it's your ghost playing a practical joke?

"Nope, Gengar is on my belt, I checked right after the power went out," Ash said.

Pikachu nodded in confirmation.

Goh tuned out his companions and continued forward, hesitantly walking deeper into the black stomach of the basement. There was a thin layer of dust coating everything, and floating in the air small spits of the unclean powder were made visible wherever the flashlight shown. Peering behind the generator, there was a rainbow web of wires; some red, some yellow, some striped, some just plain black. All of their colors once muted by, once again, the amount of dust that padded the basement.

Though, after a moment, Goh took notice of the wire placement. Where each little tube of rubber and metals laid, it felt undisturbed. They were all connected. There wasn't one wire that had been pulled from the its place. The dust left still.

No one had been here.

"I don't think it's the generator," Goh said.

"I'll have to concur, Goh," Professor Cerise said, closing a panel on the generator with a rather loud bang, "Nothing's broken."

"So, it's something with the fuse box upstairs?" Ash said.

A terrified shriek echoed down the basement stairs.

Oh no.

"Are you okay?" Chrysa asked.

Ren was trying very hard not to whimper. He didn't like this. He did not do lights going out. He did not do long dark hall ways. This was stuff that happened in horror movies, and he did not do horror movies.

He was a total scaredy-skitty.

The blonde researcher was not ashamed to admit this.

Ren knew his likes and dislikes and held pride in them. He liked things to be happy, peaceful, safe, and maybe with a little bit of surprise mixed in. His opinion on life was one that could be described as a feel-good story lover. He wanted nothing more to be tucked away in his bedroom underneath a soft blanket with a cup of coco while watching re-runs of Star Wars. Or the Avengers. Or some kind of old sci-fi movie.

Not holding a flashlight in the middle of a pitch-black hallway, slowly making their way to the fuse box.

"Nope," Ren said, "Not okay."

"Don't worry, the power will be back on soon," Chrysa comforted.

When they arrived at the fuse box, Chrysa didn't hesitate to open it. Ren flicked his gaze between the, both equally as dark, hallways in a frantic manner. Back and forth. Back and forth. Back and forth.

A shadow moved out of the corn of his eye. Breath Ren, breath. Nothing is in the dark.

A skittering noise, like tiny claws on the hard woods, rushed past his back. You're hearing things. Nothing's there. You're hearing things.

Something ran though his legs, brushing his ankle. The scream he let out was rather high for his vocal cords.

Chrysa whirled around, a panicked expression on her face, "What! What's wrong?"

"Something just touched my leg!"

"Ren take a breath. You probably just brushed your sock against your inner shin or something."

"I'm telling you Chrysa; we weren't alone up here."

The blue haired woman turned back to the fuse box, pausing for a moment before reaching her hand inside, "Huh?"

"What?"

"It looks like some of these things have been pulled."

"Pulled?"

"Calm down Ren. That might not mean anything."

The lights flicked back on and a gentle hum could be heard throughout the laboratory as everything began power up once more. Chrysa closed the fuse-box, pulled wires issue now fixed. Ren breathed a small sigh of relief, and such off his flashlight.

"Come on, we need to check if any of the digital files are damaged from the sudden loss of power," Chrysa said.

Then both research assistants froze at the small sneeze at the other side of the hall. Ren's head turned towards the sound so fast, he was lucky that his neck didn't snap. His bespectacled gaze immediately fell upon the little black and soft yellow ball of fur on the floor in the far corner of the hallway. The little puffball was frozen mid-step, large black eyes wide and staring straight through Ren's soul. Its fuzzy expression comparable to that of a child getting caught with a hand in the cookie jar. A Pichu?

"What are you doing here little guy" Ren said.

"He must have snuck in and was trying to feed on the fuse box," Chrysa said.

"We should get him out of here, and back into the sanctuary. Hopefully we can find his trainer," Ren said, then he crouched down and started to creep towards the little mouse, "Come here, little guy-"

That's as far as Ren got. The Pichu, jump up and nuzzle attacked the young blonde, before darting down the hall towards the main computer labs.

Ren fell back to the ground. A twitchy feeling in his limbs, that was somehow both numbing and painful at the same time. Paralyzed. He didn't panic. Ren had dealt with electric types before, and he know how jumpy they could be. It was honestly a stupid move on his part for attempting to catch the little thing, when it was obviously stressed.

"Ren! Are you okay?!" Chrysa said.

"Peachy," Ren squeaked, as another shock ran through his body.

Many sets of footsteps could be heard running towards them.

Ash did quite know what to make of the situation. All he knew was that the light was back on, and someone was screaming. Screaming usually didn't mean good things in Ash's personal history.

As the dark-haired trainer and those with him rounded the corner, to find Ren on the ground, with e Chrysa helping him up. Ash immediately recognized the tell-tale signs of paralysis. The slight sparks around the body, the subtle muscle twitching underneath the skin, and the aching wince. He knew each symptom by heart. It was knowledge that came when living with a pikachu.

"Are you okay?!" Goh said.

"What happened?" Professor Cerise said help Ren off the floor.

"A pichu," Ren said, "He got me with a nuzzle attack and darted back down the hall."

"We think he broke in to feed off the electricity in the fuse box," Chrysa said.

"Pi?"

"How'd a pichu even get in here?" Goh said.

There was an odd buzz in the back of Ash's mind. It felt...it felt. Well, he didn't recognize it, but it...it seemed familiar. And the young trainer wasn't the only one to recognize it. Lucario's ears were pricked up suddenly at high alert.

Someone is here.

With that Lucario darted fast down the hall, and Ash wasn't far behind.

The chase between the aura Pokémon and trainer didn't last very long, as Lucario froze in front of the main computer lab's door. Ash almost slowed down, began to relax, then a thundershock attack blasted through the door way; blinding both boy and the Pokémon accompanying him. He felt Pikachu, jump off his shoulder, and heard rapid footsteps running past them and away. When the white faded from his vision, he saw Pikachu chasing after a figure clothed in black.

Sneakers squeaked loudly as Ash flew to his feet and took off after his partner. Lucario not far behind.

"Was that a ninja?!" someone called from behind them.

Whoever this figure was they were fast. Really fast. Ash wasn't sure if Lucario was holding back or not, but the person in black was always ten steps ahead. Pikachu was closer. Something clicked in Ash's head.

"Quick Attack!" the dark-haired trainer called out.

Pikachu smirked, and a pale glow surrounded the yellow mouse as he darted forward with newfound speed.

"Pika! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi! Pi!-"

"Body slam!" Called out a voice that Ash did not recognize.

With in the time of single blink, a white flash crept out of the side of the figure's hood, and dashed out. Striking Pikachu and sending him fly back down the hall and past Ash and Lucario. The Aura Pokémon and trainer skidded to a halt and turned back. Thankfully, Pikachu shook off the hit quickly, but the figure gained ground in front of them.

The chase continued, and Ash's mind began to run as fast as his legs. A small yellow body vanished back into the hood and a pichu had been seen earlier. However, Body Slam wasn't a move that pichus could learn. Not unless a trainer had access to a TM. The Pichu wasn't a hungry wild one. This one had been trained, and trained well.

Lucario seemed to take Ash's previous idea as a good one. The aura pokemon's feet lit up with pale light, and faster than Ash had ever seen him moved dashed towards the figure. Extreme Speed. Though in the end it attacked more like a tackle attack. Lucario caught up to the figure easily, shoving them in the back, sending them through the partially opened doors of the lab's front entrance. By the time Ash made it outside, both Lucario and the figure had somehow end-up on the brick platform below the first flight of stairs. The Figure fighting back as Lucario held them down. Eventually they landed a harsh hit against the aura Pokémon's snout causing Lucario to flinch, and his hold to loosen.

Then a flash of near black energy was flung towards Lucario.

Sir Aaron never really worried about old age. Plague, or just being his reckless self, was always more likely to be the death of him. Yet, he suddenly felt all to slow when he watched, Ash and Lucario take off through the halls of the manor, and was not able to catch up with them immediately. Arceus, he was only 36 (did he count the centuries in the rock?), was now really the time for his body to begin failing him.

Thankfully, it wasn't too hard for him to track his companions. Not so thankfully, by the time that the knight reached the outside, Lucario was being thrown across the stair way, landing hard into the ground. Without thinking, Sir Aaron sent concerned signals to his auratic partner. Signals that Lucario returned with ones of reassurance, as the jackal like Pokémon stood back up on his paws. Facing his opponent with an audible snarl.

Icy eyes darted towards the other side of the tilted platform. There was a person dressed entirely in black, with a hood pulled over his head. However, it was the pair of enraged red eyes that drew the knight attention more permanently. The blood burning gaze belong to a creature that had a slim body of silky black fur; almost blending into the shadows of that surrounded the outside space. The only things that were seemingly visible were the golden, almost glowing, ring-like markings on its body, and those piercing red eyes.

A glance at Ash, showed that the younger aura user was just as focused on the scene playing out before them.

The others had arrived shortly after the knight had, and Goh quickly raised his phone. A ping rang out, before the voice starting speaking.

"Umbreon. The moonlight Pokémon, a dark type, and the evolved form of eevee. When Umbreon springs into battle, the ring pattern in its fur begins to glow. The influence of moonlight causes its evolution."

This was not a species that Sir Aaron was very familiar with. Eevees had always been a very reclusive Pokémon in his era. The forms of, fire, water, and lighting wielders being the most he had seen. However, there was little time to dwell on this.

The umbreon had placed itself between Lucario and the person in black. The swell of righteous rage, and protectiveness echoed in its aura. Clearly there was a connection between the dark type and unknown human. The umbreon snarled, practically inviting a fight.

A challenge that Lucario accepted all too quickly. With in the blink of an eye, an aura sphere was released, and flew toward the dark type. Still Sir Aaron never felt a shiver of fear from the opponent. Instead, the umbreon dashed away from the attack, but then turned and release its own sphere of shadowy energy. Shadow and shine, light and dark, clashed in a contrasted explosion. The aura Pokémon's front paws light up red, and he rushed forward...but never got the chance to land a hit. Rings of pulsing pink energy emitted from the umbreon, freezing Lucario in his tracks and then throwing him backwards into a stone wall.

"What?!" Goh screamed, "Umbreon's a dark type, Lucario has the advantage over it."

"Psychic isn't a dark type move," Ash said.

"How can a dark type know a psychic type move?!"

"Because I taught her, asshole!" came a noticeably low feminine voice.

All the rage, and focus on the fight bled out of the umbreon, and she turned towards the figure, the girl, clothed in black. The dark type trotted over, and nuzzled the hooded girl.

"I'm okay," The girl murmured, reaching out a hand to comfort the black Pokémon, "He didn't hit me too hard. I've had worse."

"Bree..."

"Shhhh."

Lucario finished shaking off the attack, but didn't engage further. His auratic partner sharing a confused glance with the knight.

"So, y'all going to call the cops? Or ask me questions first?" The girl said, standing up and dusting herself off.

"Answers would be nice yes, perhaps we can start on how and why you broke into my laboratory?" Professor Cerise called out, walking down the stairs.

"Okay I'll answer you backwards. One of the latches in your sky light is loose, and I needed information," the girl said.

"You snuck in through the roof?!" Ash said.

"Oh, please Ketchum, I know you've done more crazy things," The girl said.

Ash paled, and his aura stilled in an almost eerily manner.

"Who are you?" Sir Aaron said finding his own voice.

"Clearly not your sister. Considering, Riley's Lucario would never put his paws on me," The girl said.

"Amanda Gen?" Goh said.

"Ding! Ding! Ding! Give the man a metal," The girl, Amanda said with great sarcasm, and taking off her hood.

Familiarity, sparked into the knight mind...he closed the distance between him and his...niece? For a moment, Sir Aaron thought he was staring at a ghost. Standing before him, dressed in black pants and jacket, was a young woman who was the spinning image of Emily. The shape of her face, the pale shade of her clear complexion, the swoop of her nose, the stormy color of her eyes, it was a near perfect match. Her hair was styled differently; cut short, parted down the middle instead of off to the side like his and Ash's was, in a perfectly symmetrical spiky bob, that covered her ears. Blue streaks zipped through the black locks in random patterns.

"Hey, same nose," Ren said, pointed from where he was leaning on Chrysa.

Sir Aaron swallowed, "It's a pleasure to meet you...Amanda."

"I could say the same...Uncle. If you are who you say you are," Amanda said.

"Bree!" Umbreon scolded.

"You don't believe he is who he said he is?" Ash asked.

"I'm currently being hunted down by a terrorist organization, that want to at worst kill me and at best use me. Whom has also supposedly kidnapped my idiot of an older brother, and threatened the innocent younger ones. How do you think I would react to a complete stranger right now? Walk up to them with a big smile, and give my full name, address and social number?" Amanda said putting a hand on her hip.

"She's got a point," Goh muttered.

"I sense that you're are distrustful, but I am Sir Aaron, and I hope one day you will come to believe me," Sir Aaron said.

She huffed, "Just don't let me catch you lying. So, you're the local expert in all this magical gobbledygook?"

"You could say that," Sir Aaron said.

"Great. Can you get rid of mine for me?"

All thoughts in Sir Aaron, blanked and a mix of shock and horror filled their place. Vaguely, he could feel Lucario's similar emotions on the matter.

"Pardon?" Sir Aaron said.

"The aura thing. Can you get rid of mine?" Amanda said.

"Absolutely not, why would you want to get rid of such a gift?"

"A gift? Well, this supposed gift, has nearly gotten me killed at least twice, terrorists hunting me, and practically tore my family apart. So, I'm sorry if I don't see this a good thing."

Heavy amounts of disgust, and raw anger bled from her soul; it made the knight nearly recoil. Something...wasn't right. Something felt...rotten. Like a corpse.

"Alright, alright," Professor Cerise said, "Could you please explain why you broke in again?"

"I'll explain, but should we really do an exchange of info out here?" Amanda said.

"You making a good point," Professor Cerise said, "Do you need anything? Once we're done talking, I'll show you to your room."

"No, not really. I have all I need in the backpack, and room? That won't be necessary. I'll be out of your hair and on the road with in the next few hours," Amanda said.

"You're not staying?" Ash said.

"No, why would I do that?" Amanda said.

"Oh, you're a 'don't do other people' types?" Ren said.

"It's more of, 'other people don't do me'. You'll want me out of here by the of the week. So, why should I waste time?"

"Let's just say you spend the night," Professor Cerise said, "It's already dark out and I'm sure you'd appreciate a bed and bathtub."

Amanda opened her mouth, looking like she was about to refuse again, however her Pokémon had other ideas. Umbreon nudged her train's hip with her head, towards the other humans. Both dark type and young woman shared a glance, and then Amanda looked to the Pichu on her shoulder. The fuzzy black and yellow head nodded.

Amanda sighed, "Alright. Guess we're staying."

"Great!" Ash stepped forward, "I'm Ash, this is Pikachu and Riolu's grabbing my leg. Goh's over here, Raboot's his partner. Professor Cerise owns the lab. Ren and Chrysa are the main lab techs. And..."

"The last two people here, are Sir Aaron and his Lucario. There is no need for an introduction," Her grey eyes flicked over, locking with Sir Aaron's blue, "I'm well aware of your legend and how we're related. I've known since I was little and never allowed to forget."

So, you know of Aura Guardians?

To Amanda's credit, she kept a pretty straight-faced when compared to other reactions Lucario's telepathy. Though, the small spark of confusion was evident.

She clicked her tongue, "As much as I can in this era. Which, arguably isn't a lot, but it's probably just as relevant as your knowledge. Especially, consider that yours is probably out-of-date."

"Out-of-date?" Sir Aaron raised a brow.

"Are you aware of the 'Guardian Massacre', Sir Aaron?" Amanda said.

When everyone arrived back into the main lab, Amanda began moving around the lab with purpose and speed. Sir Aaron watched in somewhat awe as his niece (wow, niece, he'd have to get used to that. He was an uncle. How did someone be an uncle again?), as she pulled out some form of a computer, wires and files out of her bag, and began to arrange them. The files when to the corner of the desk, while the very flat, on a hinge, computer was opened up in the middle, and Sir Aaron had no idea where all the wires were going. Her hands moving with great efficiency.

A glance at Ash, showed that his other young relative was just as impressed. At least one of their family members was technologically literate.

"When Riley's abilities popped up, my mother took every resource she had to understand her son's 'condition', her words not mine," Amanda said, her fingers typing the keys faster than Sir Aaron had ever seen anyone do so before, "So, I pulled together everything that she kept from that little research venture, after Team Rocket tried to make a grab at me before I bolted. Both digital and hardcopy," she slapped the files next to her lightly.

Sir Aaron reached for the file when no one else did, and opened it.

"You'll find that it starts with vague legends and only story books, then there are a few archeological research papers on the subjects, and finally a map of my family genealogy back about 32 generations, give or take a few," Amanda explained.

Sir Aaron flipped through the files as his niece spoke, he thought they matched up with what she said, however, he didn't know what half of the stuff she mentioned looked like. However, in the back of the file, there was a printed copy of a painting that made his soul suddenly feel cold.

"What is this?" Sir Aaron said.

Amanda glanced back, before returning her attention back to computer, "You found it huh?"

A moment later the very same painting appeared on the main floating screen and the knight's stomach twist. Horror, that was a mix his own and Lucario's, filled his mind as he stared at the image of bloody blue robes. Of an executioners' blade slicing through the neck of a nameless guardian. The bodies at their feet. The painting was old, faded, but its message was clear. This had been the fate of the guild.

"This is a painting about the event that history refers to as the Guardian Massacre. It was more of a short-term war, rather than a straight up slaughtering," Amanda said, "The fighting was between Team Normalcy and Team Supremacy. Team Supremacy pretty much wanted the Aura Guild to remain in power, it was mostly made up of nobles and ranks of the guild itself. Team Normalcy was against the guild's place in high society, and wanted the level the playing field, it was mostly made up an average workers and citizens, along with some royal supports. I think it's safe to say we all know which side one."

"I-I don't understand how could people think like that," Sir Aaron stuttered, "The Guild was in place to keep peace and balance in the world. Why would people go against that?"

"My best guess, the ironic imbalance of opportunities," Amanda said, "From my understanding, Team Normalcy was upset over the better treatment that all aura users got over non-users. Do correct if I'm wrong, but if someone was a user, not even from an established bloodline but just a user, no matter formal social status they were given the option to learn about their power, yes?"

Sir Aaron nodded, crossing his arms, "They're was more to the system, but essentially yes. Any user was welcome to come and learn."

"The guild also worked closely with the Royal and noble families, correct?" Amanda said.

"Yes, it was custom for the upper class to have links to the Guild in case of danger. Either as members of courts or close family protectors. Most of the families had been working together for generations. That's how I managed to work with the Rotan Royal family, I took my father's place when he retired," Sir Aaron said.

"So, that's and automatic education and possible connection to people of high status for aura users, yet, nothing for non-users who weren't born into money. I can see where people would be upset," Amanda said.

As unfair the system had been genocide couldn't have possibly been the only answer!

"And I agree, but I doubt the people with the power would disperse it to make the situation fairer," Amanda said.

Greed. She was speaking of greed. Greed for power. Greed for riches. But his people weren't greedy.

Sir Aaron shook his head. Thoughts running faster than he could remember them. How could've this have happened? Emotions ran and swirled, shock, horror, disbelief, denial, and grief. Yet, for some reason he wasn't surprised. Like he had seen something like this coming, but that was impossible. Sir Aaron was always a supporter of his people's laws, he held pride in his culture and beliefs. Followed his people's teachings and knew them by heart. The Guild was a force of good, meant to protect and keep the world balanced. A wave of disgust for himself washed over him, how could he think, on some subconscious level, that his people had been doomed from the beginning.

"So, what have you've been doing?" Ash asked, changing the subject.

"Pardon?" Amanda said.

"Since Team Rocket, what have you been up to? We've been looking for you for weeks," Ash Said.

Amanda took a deep breath, "Well, after first I kept going on the road. Trying not to follow an obvious pattern, so they'd have a harder time following me. While I was doing that, I started to look into other sightings of Team Rocket. There are a few leaked videos and photos, but only a few of them are actually legit. I have a few connections to certain branches of Law Enforcement thanks to my dad, so I reached out to them and managed to find a couple of locations that were believed to be a front for their shady business dealing.

"Cross-referencing the locations, with the areas that had the most possible rocket activity, gave me a best possible option for a secret base. Which turned out to be a small shipping warehouse in a coast town in Hoenn. I broke into their facility and downloaded all their data," Amanda leaned back into her chair.

"Wait a minute," Goh said, "You not only found a terrorist base, but broke in and stole from them?"

"Yep," Amanda popped the 'p' with her lips.

Goh looked at Ash, "She's as crazy as you are."

Someone snorted.

"So, what did you find in the data you downloaded?" Professor Cerise asked.

Amanda started tapping on the keys, and the main screen changed, a bunch of white file pages opening up.

"At the moment not too much," Amanda said, "Team Rocket might have shotty security in real life, but they are damn good at encrypting their files. I've only managed to crack a few of them."

Ren whistled as he stared at the screen from his seat across the room, "You're right, if they weren't evil, I'd call them pretty. That's at least different levels to crack on each file."

"You a coder?" Amanda said.

Ren shook his head, "I'm with computers, and research, but coding is only something I can ID, not crack."

"How long would it take you to figure out the rest of these?" Professor Cerise said.

"Anywhere from weeks to months. Depending on trial and error," Amanda said.

"What do you have access to right now?" Goh said.

"Currently, a couple shipping statements, a few order slips, a couple receipts, and a list," Amanda said.

"A list?" Ash said confused, "That's how you knew my name."

"A list of names. It had mine, my brothers and yours. It's actually how I found you were working here, Ketchum," Amanda said.

"How?" Ash said.

"I looked you up on Bulbapedia," Amanda said.

On what?

"It's the web-site where all trainer data is organized and stored," Ash said, "I completely forgot I was on there."

"I was pretty impressed with your record actually. You've had a decent career, for a trainer," Amanda said, "You've won several small-time companions worldwide, and league wise, you've competed in 7 over your career. Placed top 16 in the Indigo League, top 8 in the Silver Conference, Ever Grande Conference and Vertress Conferance, semi-finalist in the Lily of the Valley Conference, runner up in the Lumiose Conference, Champion of Alola..."

*pphffffffff!*

Now was probably a good time to remember that Miss Chrysa had brought in water glasses with cherri berries for everyone, as Goh just spat out his current sip.

"You're what?!" Goh shouted turning towards, a now embarrassed Ash.

"It's not a big deal Goh, I was there when the tournament happened, and kinda won," Ash said sheepishly.

"Not a big deal! Ash! You're the champion of a region! That means you're the best trainer there! How could you not tell me this!"

"Slipped my mind.?"

Goh sighed, "Of course it did."

Sir Aaron wasn't entirely sure, what becoming a region champion entailed, or what the role meant, but clearly it was something important. Somewhere within the complete confusion, and raging emotional storm within him, there was a spark of pride for Ash's achievements. His descendant had done well for himself, and Sir Aaron hope Ash would keep progressing forward.

"May I continue? Cause there's more here," Amanda said.

Ash opened up his mouth to say something, but Goh cut him off, "Please do."

"...Orange League Champion and Master of the Kanto battle frontier. On top of your battling career, you've also starred in several movies, including titles "The Legend of the Pokémon Knight" and "An Epic Defense Force" and voice acted in "Super Pikachu"," Amanda said, "My little brothers love that last one by the way. However, my favorite one of your achievements is the ironic win at Rota's Annuel Guardian Festival."

Ash let out a small curse and his cheeks flushed red. Embarrassment flowing into the aura, causing it to swell.

Guardian festival?

"It's a celebration of Sir Aaron's legend. I was in town that day, and decided to complete in the Pokémon battle contest," Ash said rubbing the back of his neck.

"You won?" Sir Aaron said, curious.

"Yeah, it's basically the reason that I was able to free Lucario in the first place. The winner is presented with your staff for the night."

So, that's why there was a party. I did not mean to cut the celebration short.

Ash waved Lucario off, "Don't worry about, you kinda saved me actually. As winner I was supposed to sit still and looked dignified all night, while everyone got to enjoy the party."

Sir Aaron winced, that sounded more like a punishment then a reward.

Goh shook his head, with tired expression, "Is there anything else mind shattering, I should know about you?"

"Well, I got turned into a Pikachu by a witch one time," Ash said with straight face.

Riolu raised a brow, but Pikachu simply nodded.

"You know what, forget I ever asked," Goh said, shaking his head.

"So, the code thing?" Ash said looking at Amanda, "would it be easier to crack if you had someone to help you?"

"Most likely, doubt we can trust anyone with our situation, though," Amanda said.

"I think I know a guy, in Kalos," Ash said, "I do not know code of tech but he does. I'll have to call ahead. He might be able to help you, I think."

"If it gets me closer to finding my brother call him," Amanda said, "The faster I get through these encryptions, the more likely I'll find where they're keeping Riley."

"Hard working, good with computers, researcher by heart and blood," Professor Cerise said, "You want a job, young lady?"

"I'd take your offer, but my mother would disown me again, and possibly send a hit man after me, if she found out I went to work for a competitor," Amanda said, and the Pichu cuddled deeper into her neck.

"Competitor?" Goh said with a confused face.

"That's what she calls other labs," Amanda said.

"That's stupid, research and science is for everyone, it's not a competition," Goh said.

"Well, that's the Great Professor Gen for you."

Lucario sighed, as he leaned against the painted wall. It had been a long day. The events, the discoveries, of which hung heavily around his slim neck. There was almost a sick hollow feeling in his stomach. However, the jackal like Pokémon knew that there was a difference between illness and the feeling now. Grief, anxiety, and homesickness. They say ignorance is bliss, and Lucario never truly understood that human saying until today.

What was left? Was anything left? Did the temple still stand, or did it crumble and fall with its people?

So, many questions. With no answers.

And he wasn't the only one who felt lost.

Sir Aaron was always very good at hiding his true feelings. Sometimes, early in their partnership, Lucario couldn't sense what the knight had been thinking. Not like the normal humans. It had been somewhat frightening, know what humans had been feeling had helped Lucario survive as an abandoned pup. It helped him to know which ones would offer kindness or were too dangerous to approach.

Now however, Lucario could read his master far more easily, and the raging storm with in the knight was evident to him. Thankfully, the children hadn't noticed yet. Their connection still too weak.

Sir Aaron?

The adult human startled from where he had been lounging on his bedding. Too tired to stand, but unable to properly rest.

"Lucario?"

You are troubled.

"Is it that easy to tell?"

I'm afraid so.

"It's bothering you as well?"

Lucario nodded. We should speak of what's next.

"What do you mean by that? If we are the last, there is little we can do to change that."

Some must have survived. Ash, Amanda and Riley are here.

"If any fled, they would've been hunted down. If not for being users, then for being cowards."

Lucario nodded. Guardians were brave, if one were to fled from duty, they were shameful.

Perhaps dormants then? They would not be as desired.

"Maybe not at first, but just because they never had the gift, doesn't mean their children wouldn't. They would've been hunted as well. Emily..." Sir Aaron's eyes widened, and he stood up, beginning to pace.

Master?

"They would've hunted Emily, however, Mew said that she was married off. Dormants were kept close for marriage. However, Emily, she had reputation amongst the guild family, none of them wanted one of their sons to wed her. Some nobles also knew of her. Her husband had to have been from far away, in a very isolated place. Just like where Ryme city is now."

The reason Miss Emily's descendants are still live to this day is that they couldn't find her. Her children were dormants. Until.

"Until Riley and Amanda," Sir Aaron hummed, "This likely explains how Ash came to be as well. A child born of wedlock would've been hidden no matter who was their parent. That's why my family survived, they escaped. As for the rest..."

Justice, not even vengeance, is in reach for them. However, our people were not slain. Wounded, yet still alive. They live through the children.

Sir Aaron sighed, but nodded, "Well, said old friend. If that's the best we can do, then it's what we must do."

Speaking of the children, how does it feel to officially to be an uncle?

Sir Aaron snorted lightly, "Technically I have been an uncle for centuries."

But this is the first niece you've met, your thoughts on her.

"She's conflicting. I'm certain you've noticed the similarities between her and Emily."

The resemblance is in everything expect the hair style, yet I could see Miss Emily making a similar choice if she had been allowed to cut her hair.

Sir Aaron nodded, "If reincarnation was something that the Guild believed in, I'd be inclined to believe Amanda is Emily reborn. However, have you sensed something wrong with her as well?"

The dark presence surrounding her?

"I don't know what it is, but it's clinging to her aura. It's black and vile. Twisting around her like choking vines. And it pulsed, with each flare of emotion it reacted differently."

She's newly activated. Do you suspect whatever is clinging to her is the reason that she lived so long as a dormant?

"I'm not sure, I can't even identify it."

There was a crash, followed by several more thumbs, coming from the downstair floor. Both guardians jumped, heading down the stairs and towards the sounds. The boys stumbling after them.

Downstairs was a nothing but a scene of chaos. A top self on the wall had fallen, and knocked several more down to the ground. Different items either were rolling across the floor, or knocking things of the counters if they managed to fall on the elevated surfaces. In the center of all this, was Pikachu, Raboot, and the pup, being stared down by a rather annoyed looking Umbreon.

"What happened?" Goh said.

"Bree (chaos)."

"Pika (An Accident)."

"What are you three doing down here?" Ash said.

All three smaller Pokémon didn't make eye-contact.

The sound of a snore echoed from the corner. Lucario's eyes drifted over to find, the female user, fast asleep on the sofa and a groggy Pichu curled up in her hair. Vaguely, the aura Pokémon remembered her mentioning that she wasn't tired and wanted to work on breaking the encryption on the files she stole. Perhaps she was more tired than she previously thought.

"She slept through that?" Ash said.

"Impressive," Sir Aaron said.

Chapter Text

Sir Aaron picked through the fruit bowl he had served himself for breakfast. The morning was slow, everyone seemingly still half asleep. Exhaustion from the previous night’s events still clinging on to the lab residents with a crooked warm hand.

Ash and Goh sat at the dining table, the former eating with one eye closed, and Goh barely touching his food. The Pokémon seemed energetic enough. Even the new arrivals, Pichu and Pikachu had been chatting with their mouths full almost throughout the meal, with Raboot looking on them in mellow disgust. Riolu had tried to sit as close to the Lucario as possible when eating, and Sir Aaron knew that he’d have to remind his future self not to tease his partner about. Umbreon had followed Amanda up the stairs when the young woman left to take the shower, she had forgotten to do last night.

“Well, aren’t we a lively group this morning,” Sir Aaron said.

“I think my spirit still in bed,” Goh said.

“It’s not,” Ash said.

“And how would you know…Oh, never mind,” Goh groaned and rubbed his eyes with the heels of his hands.

Ash had a mischievous smile on his tired face.

Sir Aaron told himself not the laugh.

Footsteps came down the stair case, drawing the knight attention, and at the sight of his niece the knight nearly spat out his tea.

Amanda, was dressed in a black long-sleeve leather jacket with a navy-blue shirt underneath, tight dark blue jeans, with short black leather boots, that only came up past her ankles. Her hair was in the same style as last night, short and spikey, black with blue streaks, and still keeping her ears hidden from view. A pair of blue rimmed spectacles sitting on her nose. However, those weren’t the fashion choice that made the knight freeze.

It was the black ink that painted her eyes, and lips. The black made her look paler, more corpse like. The ink surrounding her eyes and placed on their lids, made the white of them pop out, drawing attention towards them and their odd emptiness. While the black of her lips drew attention to the ring in her nose, and caller ribbon tightly bound around her neck.

By Arceus, please let this be a fashion choice, and his niece actually wasn’t part of a thrall.

“Well, I take you all aren’t morning people,” Amanda said.

“Nope,” Ash said.

“I hope you’ll be awake when we need to get on our flight,” Amanda said.

“Are you hungry?” Sir Aaron said, “I could try to make you something. Just nothing to complex, I’m still learning the new appliances.”

“That won’t be a problem, I can cook for myself,” Amanda said, walking into the kitchen and one of her black clawed hands (how in Arceus’s name did her get her nails to look like that?) pulled a knife from the magikarp shaped holder.

Umbreon growled, red eyes fixed on to the blade.

“Calm down, I’m not going to hurt myself,” Amanda said to her partner.

“So, I’m related to a goth, tech-head, ninja girl, who can cook?” Ash mumbled.

“Did not see that coming,” Goh said.

Lumiose City had seen better days. The city of light, was still just as stunning as it always had been, but Ash could still pick out small cracks and breaks in the buildings. Scars made into the structures from the wounds that Team Flare left behind. A year may have passed since the destruction, but everything still felt fresh.

Ash swallowed and forced himself to look at the tower before him. Prism Tower was one of the first structures that was restored after the attack. The blue crystal plates glistened in the sunlight, reminding everyone of the tower’s name. It looked just like when Ash had first seen it; tall, inspiring, beautiful, a challenge to all those who entered, just begging every trainer to try to concur it. Once Ash felt all that when he looked at Prism tower. Now though, it carved a pit of dread in his stomach and gave him flashes of a city burning from the view of its peak.

“Wow,” Goh said, “The gym is inside there?”

“It’s quite the stunning site. I wonder how they built it,” Sir Aaron said.

“Lots of cranes,” Ash said.

“Pi” Pikachu nodded.

“So, you’ve actually been inside, ketchum?” Amanda said.

“Yeah, I have. Quite a few times,” Ash said.

“There was a rumor going around a while ago, that the gym leader only allowed trainers inside if they meet certain requisites. You must have made quite the impression if you have a leader like that on speed-dial,” Amanda said, as she started walking towards the entrance.

“Oh, that! The four badges thing, that was a misunderstanding,” Ash said, “You see a robot took over the gym.”

“Riiight…” Goh said.

“Call me a liar, all you want,” Ash said, “You’re going to be proven wrong.”

Inside the gym was the same. The halls dressed in dark metals, with large tubes lining the pathway. Arches of yellow lightning dancing and jumping inside each cylinder of glass. Pichu squealed with curious excitement, jumping off of Amanda’s shoulder and running over to one of the tubes. Pikachu quickly followed suit, but other one exchanging a few chattering words before racing between the tubes on the right.

Electric types, always so excited.

Ash smiled at the playful scene. Pichu seemed the be the most playful of Amanda’s team. The small yellow fluffball was always the first to jump into the fray. Umbreon was like her trainer, reserved and aware. The dark type was always by Amanda’s side (the right side usually), keeping pace and keeping close. Ash knew there was a third Pokémon on his cousin’s team (there was a third pokeball on her belt with an aura signature), but they hadn’t come out of the ball yet.

“Welcome to the Lumiose Gym,” a robotic voice spoke once the group reached the end of the hall, “What is the purpose for your visit?”

“We’re here to meet some old friends,” Ash said.

“What is the name on the appointment?”

“Ash Ketchum and guests.”

“Ash Ketchum, and guests identified.”

Gears and machinery hissed and groaned as the door slid open.

“Gym leader Clemont has been notified of your arrival, please enjoy your stay.”

“AI activated door, and security system?” Amanda said, “This is might be just as good as you say.”

“Ash!!!” A squealing voice called, and a head of a golden blonde hair suddenly ran in to Ash, short thin arms hugging his waist tightly.

“Heya Bonnie!” Ash said quickly returning the hug.

The young girl was maybe an inch or two taller, but still utterly adorable. Her sunny blonde hair, bouncing as she danced on her tippy toes. Big blue eyes, blooming with joy as she looked to meet Ash’ brown. Her smile infectious.

“How have you been?” Ash said, with a cheeky smirk, “Didn’t you come up to my chest last time I saw you, are you shrinking?”

Bonnie shows her head passionately, “No.”

“Dene nene!” A small brown mouse Pokémon popped his head out of Bonnie’s purse.

“Pika!”

“Pi?”

All the small electric types suddenly joined up on the floor. Pikachu and Dedenne jumping and squealing; friends united once more. While Pichu watched on, seemingly waiting for an appropriate time to join in. Though the smaller mouse didn’t have to wait for long, Pikachu quickly introduced Pichu to their old travel companion and they all started to play and chatter like they had known each other all their lives.

“Bonnie, this is Goh…” Ash said, pointing to his friend, and then continued to introduce the rest of their group in a similar manner.

Bonnie greeted everyone with a smile, and even tried to hug Riolu, but the puppy squirmed out of her grip to hide behind Lucario. The only person that Bonnie didn’t seem all that pleased to meet, was Amanda. Bonnie’s baby blue eyes narrowed and began to burn with wild fury.

“Ash! How could you do this to Serena?!” Boonie screamed whirling around to face him.

“What?” Ash said, completely confused.

“She liked you! She kissed you! And now you’re hanging out with another woman!? I thought better of you,” Bonnie said.

“What?” Ash repeated.

Amanda snorted, “Bonnie sweetie…Ketchum’s my cousin. And way to dumb for me.”

Okay, rude…Well, at least Bonnie didn’t look to angry now. Why was she so upset at Amanda in the first place? Was it really that shocking that Ash had family? Maybe the little girl thought that Amanda was his sister, and was jealous. Over the journey through kalos, Clemont and Bonnie had kind of become his honorary siblings and vise versa.

“What’s with all the yelling?” Spoke a voice that came from a bespectacled face, with a blonde head a hair. A similar appearing robot following behind the young man.

“Clemont!” Ash said, running up and hugging his friend, “How’s it been?”

“Well, not to bad actually. So, I can’t really complain. We managed to open up a few months ago, so, we’ve been rather busy,” Clemont said, “You have been too I see? I mean you aren’t really the type to call.”

“Yeah, thanks for being so cool about this,” Ash said rubbing the back of his neck.

“Hey, nothing can be weirder then the malamar incident. It’s fine, beside you gave me an excuse to take an off day from the gym,” Clemont waved him off.

Introductions were repeated, for the newcomer. However, the subject of conversation quickly swapped over to clembot.

Living suits of armor? What’s next? Talking candles?

“You haven’t seen a Disney movie, have you?” Bonnie said.

Lucario was looking over the robot, suspicion on his face, and in his soul. Sir Aaron was trying very hard no to appear fascinated, however his aura was practically bleeding it. Amanda? Ash couldn’t really read her all that well. Her face, her eyes even more so, always appeared indifferent. Blank. Forget reading her aura, she was still a stranger to him, and Ash was still too inexperienced. He could only understand Sir Aaron’s soul, when the knight wasn’t actively masking it.

Still, she was currently circling Clembot, while muttering so there must be some form of interest.

“Something interest you?” Clemont said, looking at Amanda.

“His outer shell is comprised of both plastic and metals. I assume the metal is used to protect the vital parts of his operating system, while the plastic on the limbs is to make it lighter, for better mobility?” Amanda said.

“Uh, yeah actually,” Clemont nearly stuttered, “You like robotics?”

“Well, not really. I’m more of software girl rather than hardware. Though, I’m guessing his AI is pretty sophisticated? He reacts to my movements in real time, and I’m guessing that he’s wired into the building due to the similarities of his voice with the one on the speakers.”

“Uhm, well yeah.”

“That’s impressive coding. What type of syntax?”

Clemont relaxed, smiling, “I’ve always been attached to C++.”

Amanda hummed, “I’m more of a Snap! girl. I just hope you’re able to crack encryptions.”

Clemont pushed his glasses further up the bridge of his nose, the lenses gleaming, “That’s what you called me here to do isn’t it?”

Bonnie made a squeaking noise, and her blue bell eyes lit up with stars. It was a very familiar expression, one that Ash seen many times on the young girl’s face while journeying through kalos. Oh no.

“Amanda’s smart. Pretty. And can understand Clemont’s science talk,” Bonnie said practically bouncing up and down, “She’s a Keeper!”

The little girl dashed forward with great excited energy. Got down on one knee and… “We’ll you please take care of my brother!”

…And that was the most shift in expression Ash had ever seen on Amanda’s face… “What?”

“Bonnie, I told you to stop this a million times!”

Somethings never change.

Alright for the rather eccentric personality that her cousin had, Amanda had to admit, Ash had connections.

“Good friends are the people who are skilled and reliable. That’s why you must ensure that you are beneficial to others. Relationships are all about exchange. If you give something, you’ll receive something.” That’s what her mother had told her.

While Amanda was quite confident Ash didn’t subscribe to that particular ideal, he still managed to put in practice. She honestly had no idea that he had a gym leader in his back pocket. Then again someone who was well traveled should have a number of allies, especially a champion. Even if his region was small.

Clemont was everything that Ash had promised him to be, and once the surprise marriage proposal was rejected by the both of them, she could see that his lab was near fascinating. Amanda wasn’t that into engineering or robotics, but Constance and Carter were. Her little brothers breathed this stuff, and they were good at it. When they were four, they had taken apart the game consoles they got for their birthday and rebuild them into little gadgets that either worked like a charm or blew up. Professor Gen hadn’t even gotten mad, only tested their IQs and sent them off too school, a year early and had them skip three grades. Amanda didn’t like that they had some of their childhood taken away, but if their good grades kept them in Mother’s good favor, then it couldn’t have been too bad.

At least they weren’t like Amanda, who wasn’t smart, and had chosen to study what could be considered a useless degree in her family’s mind.

“Whoa….” Clemont murmured, “I’ll give team Rocket a complement. This is good encryption. I understand why you couldn’t get through all this on your own.”

“I probably could’ve,” Amanda said, “I just don’t have the time, everyday that Riley is still captive could be his last.”

“You really care about Riley, don’t you?” Uncle Aaron said.

In the short time that Amanda had known her, ‘uncle’, she hadn’t been very impressed. He wasn’t the great strategist knight that the legends made him out to be. He didn’t even have a plan as to fix the Team Rocket situation. Now, she could give him the benefit of the doubt, anything time that modern technology or pop-culture references were made he did look lost (apparently Both she and Ash enjoyed old memes, but she wouldn’t let her cousin know that). Despite that he listened with some form of earnest whenever, either Ash or herself was talking. Probably trying to forge a dead bond, between strangers. Like an idiot.

Her uncle was sentimental, someone who thought with his heart instead of his head. The modern world would eat him alive. It always did to people who were liked that.

Still, she humored his curiosity regarding Riley, her brother would most likely stick around the knight after this, “It’s more out of obligation. I don’t really care about what happens to him, as long as he isn’t killed.”

“You can’t mean that. He’s your brother,” Bonnie said.

Oh, you sweet summer child, you just wait, people always show their dark side last, “I have seen him in thirteen years, honey. I doubt he even remembers me.”

“Wait you haven’t had any contact?” Goh said.

“Not, since he left,” Amanda stated. Unless you count the letters he never answered.

“Maybe he got in trouble a lot and didn’t want you to get hurt,” Ash said.

Amanda just shrugged.

Maybe Riley was out to protect her. However, she doubted it. Thirteen years was just to long to think that he actually thought about her much. He had more important things to worry about now, anyway.

“Anyway, back to the data, you’ve given me,” Clemont said, “I think it would be easier to create a copy and we each pick a half to work on. That way it cuts the code-cracking time in half.”

“I can work with that,” Amanda said, “Do you have email or discord I can contact you on, so we can communicate our findings?”

“Yeah, no problem,” Clemont said, “This is actually kind of excited. I never done this type of Cyber CSI job before.”

“Really?” Amanda said, “You seem to have the skills for it.”

“Well, inventing and gym leading are a full-time job usually,” Clemont said, “Where’d you find this data anyway? This couldn’t have been an easy remote hack.”

“I didn’t remote hack it, I broke into the building and downloaded it directly,” Amanda said.

Bonnie looked at her with starry eyes and opened mouth. Pichu, who was currently on the child head appeared fairly amused.

“You know, I’d call you crazy, but considering I’ve watched Ash jump/fall from prism tower, I don’t have a hard time believing you,” Clemont said, flatly.

Ash?

“It was for a good reason!”

Clemont snorted, “Yeah, don’t worry Lucario. It was. So, Ash how have you been doing lately?”

“Fine mostly, minus the current situation,” Ash said.

“Have you talked to Serena?” Bonnie said.

“Not recently,” Ash said.

“Who’s Serena?” Goh said.

“Yeah, I was wondering about that too,” Amanda said, “You’ve mentioned them twice now.”

“Oh, she’s just a friend I met in Kalos,” Ash smiled.

Amanda raised a brow at the expression, it felt too happy, to before just a fri-

“A Friend!?” Bonnie jumped up, “Ash, she kissed you!”

Oh, definitely not a friend. Unless, it was a friend with benefits situation, but Ash seemed way to young, and naïve for that.

“And…?” Ash said.

And nope. Not Friends with benefits. Her cousin was just an idiot.

Though, Amanda couldn’t really judge him. Not after the years she spent as a confused Bi-disaster. And even once she figured that out, her romantic life was practically dead. Her one serious relationship ended in a horrible way, and her ex was a complete psycho in hindsight. It wasn’t like she had good role models for a relationship anyway. She didn’t even know how her parents even dated much less got married. They were practically strangers to each other by the time her father died.

Bonnie all but moaned in what was probably the pain of a young romantic learning about the horrors of clueless friends, and stomped over to Amanda. Tired bluebell eyes looked up at her.

“Why are boys so stupid?” The little girl asked.

“I wish I knew, young padawan. I wish I knew.”

Chapter Text

I think it's time we begin training you in Aura sight," Sir Aaron said.

"Really?" Ash said.

The knight nodded. Though, the decision wasn't one made with tradition in mind. Usually there would be a few years of strengthening Ash's control, before attempting to use Aura sight. Especially for a more physical oriented user like Ash. Users who were more physically oriented excelled when it came to summoning Aura, gathering it into shapes and forms from your own soul and the surrounding world. It was the more hands-on side of aura. However, the knight had his reasons for his sudden choice.

First it was their lack of extra time that pushed for this decision, as Aura sight was a skill, that while a little tricky to navigate at first, was practical. There had been a number of times that Sir Aaron relied on his sixth-sense to not trip over a root in the middle of a night's walk or navigate through his home when all his candles suddenly disappeared...and it worked...at least in the root case. Never the less, it would certainly aid Ash in some way.

The second reason that he wanted to start teaching lessons regarding the more mental control of aura is because he felt these would be the easiest way to start his niece's training. While Amanda was a maiden of action, like Ash, she was far more of an intellectual. Someone who thought through their plans, even if said plans are slightly manic in nature. Amanda would have an easier time learning the techniques that required more mental concentration first, rather than the ones that needed a physical attribute.

"We'll start outside, in the garden. Plants are always richer in auratic value, and easier to see for first-timers," Sir Aaron said.

"What does a world of Aura look like?" Goh said.

Blue.

Sir Aaron nodded to his partner's blunt statement. Blue would be the first word that came to mind if he was asked to describe aura sight.

Goh hummed, his head tilted, "Well, you got to tell me all about it when I get back from school."

"You have school today?" Ash said rather confused.

"My and my teacher have a deal, I show up in person on test days, but I do all the lessons and assignments on my own time," Goh said.

"At least one of you care about your education," Amanda called from where she was sitting on the sofa, her laptop in front of her and fingers working furiously on the keys.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Ash said.

"Well, I am of the belief that the more you study the better life you make for yourself in the long run. You can't get any high paying job without at least a Master's Degree," Amanda said.

"Me getting a master's degree?" Ash raised a brow, "Yeah, that was never going to happen."

"If you had applied yourself maybe it would've worked out better," Amanda said.

"Just because I preferred the trainers license doesn't mean I didn't try in school," Ash said.

"No, it just means you took an unnecessary gamble and dropped out," Amanda said.

Sri Aaron cleared his throat, "Speaking of lessons, I expect you both to meet me in the gardens in-"

"Nope, not going to happen," Amanda said.

"Pardon?" Sir Aaron said.

Amanda clicked her tongue, "Look I'm sure that you think that it's important for me to learn how to use this quote-unquote gift, but I'm not interested. Aura is a practically dead art and I'll have no use for it down the line. So, frankly it's a waste of time. Besides, I have a full day planned out."

Sir Aaron resisted the urge to either flinch or sigh. Despite, living on the lab grounds for a about a week, Amanda still hadn't opened up to...anyone really. His niece was closed off and only focused on the codes, or her studies. There was no kind of awkward bond that was smoothed out over time, like with Ash and Lucario. Any form of communication or connection was shut down. Which for an aura user, was worrying.

Bonds between users were always more than just simple friendships. They had to be since a large amount of them could feel each other's emotions and hear individual thoughts. Communication was far more intimate, compared to the way that non-users spoke. Users thrived off of the connections in the guild. It offered support, creativity, and aid. A web of safety that link all minds.

Yet, anytime Sir Aaron tried to offer that to Amanda, something disturbing occurred.

The knight wasn't sure what form of demon had attached itself to his niece, but it was not a welcomed presence. The vile thing clung to her beautiful soul with an unwilling grip. Black limbs, like brambles or shackles, wormed around her arms and legs. A large shape, like an ink splash, a stain, dripped from her hair, like a mourning veil, and pooled over her heart. The black pulsed and rippled against the flow of her soul. It strangled the shine in her spirit, leaving it dim, weakened. Like it was draining the will to live out of her.

Sometimes, the black seemed smaller, and her aura appeared brighter. However, bring up a certain topic, a flash of emotion, get her to smile, and it would tighten its hold. Diming her passion and life, spreading the darkness further and sinking deeper. Her pale face would return to numbness, and her eyes would look more like a dead woman's stagnant pools.

"You're cracking the encryption?" Goh said, drawing the Knight's attention back to the present.

"Among other things," Amanda said, "I am a student still after all and the last test I got back a 95%. So, I can't slack off anymore."

"Wait..." Ash's brows furrowed, "I thought 95% was a good score?"

"Maybe for you, but not for me. Anything below 100% is practically a failure," Amanda said.

"You can't actually think that," Goh said.

"Doesn't matter," Amanda said, she held up a piece of paper, "I have a schedule to keep and I can't slack," She sighed, "I'm going to get a coffee, see ya'll tonight."

With that his niece packed up her needed belongings, with the same frantic efficiency that she always moved with, and headed out of the kitchen. Pichu and Umbreon hot on their trainer's tail.

Sir Aaron shared a concerned look with Lucario; they had both noticed the black had spread since last night.

Goh stood up from his breakfast and walked over to the coffee table, picking up a stack of papers that Amanda had left. The lad looked over them curiously. He scoffed.

"And Chloe says I'm a micromanager," Goh mumbled.

"What is it?" Ash said.

"These schedules are down to the minute, for the next four years of her life," Goh said.

Is that normal for young humans? Lucario turned to Ash.

"Don't look at me. I've never made a schedule in my life," Ash said. Pikachu shook his head.

"No, it's not. This can't be healthy," Goh murmured.

"Hey, maybe she can't help it. She might have OCD, or some control disorder, so something," Ash said.

"Goh! Are you coming to school today?!" A young feminine voice called from the hall.

Ah, yes, the mysterious, young mistress of the lab. Professor Cerise's daughter, Chloe. Sir Aaron hadn't really seen the young girl on the grounds and she never really interacted with him. Which the knight didn't mind much. She was obviously shy and a little unsteady regarding her future. Many times, Sir Aaron had seen Emily act similarly when they were young.

"Yeah! Yeah! I'm coming!" Goh called.

Eevee blinked her big brown eyes, as she finally slipped through the RV's door. Miss Mandy had forgotten to lock it when she left this morning. The young normal type, knew that the human had wanted her to stay in the vehicle and stay out of sight. However, there was only so much that a Pokémon could explore inside of one RV. And boredom was particularly harsh this morning. So, like the adventurous little Pokémon she was, escape was the only sensible answer.

Besides, Miss Mandy wouldn't be nearly as harsh on her disobedience when compared with Professor Gen. Eevee was not at all fond of that cranky old woman. Test after test. Analysis after analysis. Demand after demand. The attention wasn't what Eevee wanted. She just wanted to be left alone. So, what if she wasn't ready to evolve yet? Why did it make her so interesting?

Unlike her brothers and sisters, Eevee hadn't really been all that eager to evolve, at least not for just a random trainer. Eevee chose to be patient; she wanted her trainer to be perfect. Someone who she could grow along side with, someone who would want to bond with her because they wanted to. Not so they could the next battle match. Every trainer that came to the reserve, they only wished to fight. To leave Ryme City and become a foreign region's champion. Eevee, wouldn't mind becoming a battle Pokémon, but she wanted to fight for a trainer that would love her with their whole heart.

However, the right one...just never came to the reserve.

Once upon a time, Eevee thought maybe Miss Mandy had been that perfect one, but over time it was obvious that Umbreon was the human's true partner and Miss Mandy was far too certain that her life wouldn't change. Eevee needed someone who was uncertain of their place in the world. She wanted to help her trainer discover who they were, and their potential.

That's why she hadn't evolved yet. She wanted to evolve with her trainer. Discover their destiny together.

But once more, none of the trainers she had seen felt right.

Eevee mingled around the grounds of the lab for a few moments more. Smelling the unfamiliar smells, chasing some mischievous leaves that danced in the wind, and digging up spots that she probably shouldn't be playing in but didn't care.

"Goh!"

The normal type's ears perked up, and her button nose twitched, "vee?"

"Are you coming to school today?!"

"Yeah! Yeah! I'm coming!"

Creeping up the edge of the front of the lab, Eevee's brown eyes began to shimmer. Standing in front of the double doors, was a young girl. A trainer no doubt. Her hair was the pretties shade of deep pink, that Eevee had ever seen. Her face, while frustrated, was calmer than anything. Only a hint of unease in her expression, but it was an exhausted look, like she was already tired of the day even though it had just begun. The human leaned against the door, and started playing with her braid. Almost appearing bored.

The other door opened (and it blocked Eevee's view of the girl, no! no! Shut door! Shut! Eevee needed to see her), and out walked a young human male. His hair a dark brown, and wearing clothes that were the same colors of the girl's.

"Took you long enough," the girl said.

"Keep talking. We aren't going to be late," the boy said.

The girl sighed, "Sometimes I wonder why we became best-friends."

"Simple we complement each other. When I get too deep into my stuff you pull me out, and when you have a hard time making decisions, I push you."

"Yeah, that's not it." The girl shook her head.

"Let's just get to class."

Eevee watched as the humans left. As the girl left...She was going to follow them.

"Ow..." Ash hissed.

Okay, aura sight training was far more...painful...then Ash thought. Honestly, he thought that staying still would be his down fall, but no...it was not moving fast enough and getting slammed right in the eye with a swinging log.

"Let me see," Sir Aaron said, gently pulling Ash's hand away from the now swelling eye.

You lasted longer than I thought.

"Gee thanks," Ash said flatly.

Quit your moaning, you are not the first here to be struck during this exercise.

"Yeah, and your bones are 5 times denser than mine, so you don't have to worry about a fractured eye socket," Ash said.

"Well, thankfully, I don't think it did that much harm," Sir Aaron said, "Now hold very still for me. I think this is with in my abilities."

Ash hissed at the gentle brush of fingertips against his bruising flesh. Then the pain leveled out, a buzzing warmth washing it away. A glow could be seen from underneath his eye lid before it quickly retreated. Ash's vision remained blurry as he blinked the now healed eye.

"Better?" Sir Aaron asked.

"Yeah," Ash nodded.

"Your eye may water for a while, but you should be fine."

"I'll take a watery eye, over a black one," Ash said.

"Wise words," Sir Aaron said.

"You'll have to teach me that healing thing, it would come in handy," Ash said.

"I'll show you what I know, but it isn't much. This was the one sector of training that I never really excelled in," Sir Aaron said.

"Really?"

"I was too excitable, the instructors for the subject secretly want to throw me off a cliff side," Sir Aaron said.

The knight started laughing, at Ash's sudden expression shift. Apparently, the surprise was enough to show outwardly. Even Lucario appeared surprised.

"I know it's hard to believe, but I could've been a terror in the class room if I wanted," Sir Aaron said.

"Did you want to?" Ash raised a brow.

"Depends on the lesson, and how youthful I was," Sir Aaron said.

So, was that the reason, you never taught me healing? You didn't pay attention to your own lessons?

Sir Aaron cleared his throat. He was clearly embarrassed. Ash tried not to snigger; he was getting good at reading the knight.

"I'll show you what I know, even if it isn't much," Sir Aaron said.

Ash nodded, "To bad there isn't a book or how-to guide or something. Then we wouldn't be limited by just what you know. Not that you don't know much..."

Sir Aaron shook his head, "Don't worry, I've long learned that you never everything, no matter how much you want to."

There used to be books. An entire library full if I remember correctly.

"Really?" Ash said.

Yes, at the temple. I had never been inside however.

"Why?" Ash said.

Un-matched pups were not allowed inside some of the more guarded areas, and I don't know how to read human scribbles so it was never of use to me.

"Huh?" Ash's head tilted to the side, "You've mentioned this temple thing a lot. Why haven't we gone there yet?"

We might have but Amanda said our people were destroyed. Hunted to extinction. Why would we look for something that isn't there?

"The people might be gone, but there has to be something they left behind," Ash said, "Where else would Team Rocket get their information."

Sir Aaron hummed, his furrowed in sorrow but also focus, "You might be on to something lad. True, our people are now myth, but all myths have some basis in truth. Something had to had been left behind. And if only non-users attacked, they wouldn't be able to access the inner chambers."

Where all writings were kept.

Pikachu jumped onto Ash's shoulder. Both sets of brown eyes met; understanding between both trainer and Pokémon washing over them.

"Well, I guess we know where we are going next," Ash said.

Chloe was panicking.

The small brown fluffy Pokémon in her arms was all but clinging to her. It was honestly kind of adorable, and she didn't really want to let go of Eevee. The day hadn't gone as she planned, the average team rocket trio showed up, but Chloe wasn't really upset at them. They were kind of the reason she found Eevee.

However, they were also the reason that three well-dressed scientists found Eevee too.

Hence the reason that Chloe was panicking, they wanted to take Eevee away.

"You'll have to understand," the lead scientist, a woman with pale blue hair and eye spoke, "this Pokémon is a research subject that escape our facilities and must be returned. It's property of Gen Laboratories."

"I understand," Dad said, "We didn't mean to make any trouble when we found her."

No. No. Don't understand dad. Don't understand. Eevee shouldn't be going back with these people. Something isn't right. Chloe wanted to scream.

But she didn't scream. Nor did she move when the blue haired woman plucked Eevee from her arms. Yamper barked like no tomorrow, as the trio began to walk away. Dad held the electric type back.

Chloe bit her lip, her green eyes drifted upward towards the researchers. To the little brown bundle in the lead's arms. Eevee was looking back at her, and Chloe knew. This wasn't right.

Eevee knew it too.

The normal type began to squirm like her life depended on it. Eventually jumping out of the researcher's hold and dashing back towards them. Back towards Chloe. The young girl held out her arms and Eevee didn't hesitate to jump into them with a happy squeal. This. This was right.

The peace and joy of that moment of rightness...didn't last.

"Oh, come on now you stubborn thing. We need to get you back to the lab," The blue haired woman said reaching for Eevee.

Chloe pulled back, using her body to shield Eevee from the woman.

"Come on, honey, hand the Pokémon over," The woman said.

And in a rare moment of defiance, Chloe said "No."

"Chloe..." Dad tried to speak.

"No, dad this isn't right," Chloe said, "This Eevee isn't theirs."

"What's going on up here?!"

Chloe's green eyes snapped to the end of the side walk in front of the lab. Quickly focusing on the black haired, bespectacled girl who had an Umbreon at her side and a coffee in her hand. Amanda. Chloe hadn't really talked with her. Which, in her defense, Amanda didn't seem to want to talk to Chloe either, but still the fact was, they weren't close. Yet, as Chloe stared at Amanda, the elder trainer taking in the scene before her, she saw a shift in those cold grey eyes. It almost looked like anger.

The woman with blue had seemed to pale a little.

"Get out of here kid! This is none of your business!" One of the other researchers, one with red hair, said.

"None of my business?" Amanda raised a brow, "Well, I'd hate to break it too you, but you trying to steal the eevee I gifted to Professor Cerise's daughter, feels like my business."

"A gift?" the blue haired woman paled even further.

"Yes, it was a gift. A way to strengthen relations between Gen Labs, and this new establishment," Amanda said, lying flawlessly.

"You work for Gen labs?" The third researcher said.

"You really don't recognize me, do you?" Amanda said, stalking closer, like a predator closing in on dinner, "Does the name Amanda Gen ring a bell or do I need to explain who I am to you?"

"O-of course not, Miss Gen," The Blue haired woman was now practically panicking.

Amanda smiled, "Good," she said, and the smile vanished, "Now are you going to tell me what makes you think that you have the right to screw up my assignment?"

"Your assignment, Miss Gen?" The blue Haired woman swallowed.

"Yes, my assignment, personally given to me, by my mother, to reach out to Cerise labs for a joint project. I selected that eevee from my family's breeding reserve to bring as an olive branch. So, why are you trying to take her from her trainer?" Amanda said.

"Uhm...we believe this eevee to be an escaped test subject for your mother's research," The blue haired said.

"Well, you're wrong. I selected this eevee myself, as I knew she would make a good match for miss Chloe. She isn't my mother's test subject," Amanda hummed, "Wait a minute, are you telling me that you have been chasing and harassing an eevee that was for a trainer, that has been underneath a professor's daughter's care, while there has been an escapee on the loose?"

"Uhm no, no, no. It wasn't like that, Miss Gen-" Blue hair said.

"Cut the tauros-shit," Amanda snapped, "I should really report the three of you to my mother for this fuck up of yours. I know she would."

All three of the researchers wilted. Their faces flinching.

Amanda huffed, "But you three are really lucky, it was me who caught you. I should, but I won't as long as you get back to your actual jobs, and never speak of this again. Got it?"

They all nodded with great vigor.

"Good," Amanda crossed her arms, "Now get back to work. You've wasted enough time on this false lead."

It took less than a minute for all three of the researchers to bolt down the lab's front steps. It was actually kind of funny. They were more stumbling than running. One of them even tripped and face planted on the last step.

Amanda smirked, and took a sip of her coffee, seemingly please with herself. Then the goth walked up that last of the lab steps.

Chloe smiled at her, "Thank you."

"Don't mention it kid. Seriously, if my mother finds out about all the crap I just spit out, I'd really be disowned," Amanda said, "besides, Eevee deserves a trainer not a lab cage."

"Wait," Dad said, "This Eevee was the one they were looking for?"

"Not anymore," Amanda said, "Or at least she won't be soon if you get her into a poke ball pronto."

"What do you mean?" Chloe said.

"On the off chance that mother does find out about this, she will not stop until she gets Eevee back under her control. However, if Eevee is bound to a pokeball underneath your name, she'd have to go the legal route, and no matter how good the lawyer is, unless abuse is found, it is nearly impossible for a pokemon to be taken from their trainer."

Chloe gazed at the older trainer with new found respect, and gratitude, "Thank you."

"Like I said, don't mention it."

Amanda sighed heavily, and let out a frustrated growl. She shoved her laptop on the coffee table. Pushing up her glasses to rest on her forehead and mashing the heels of her hands into her face. Not caring about smudging her make up anymore. Her head hurt; insomnia was a bitch. Her fingers hurt; cramping up from typing. Her stomach hurt; she only drank coffee today, and the max amount of cinnamon the café could add into her brew wasn't nearly spicy enough.

Her eyes hurt.

Arceus, Amanda knew that her grey pools were slowly dying but couldn't they suck it up and work at least until she managed to get her idiot brother out of trouble?

Was that too much to ask?

It probably was for a selfish bitch like her. Especially after...

The beedrill buzzed angerly over her head. Eevee was held close in the 5-year-ols arms, the small Pokémon trembling. She hadn't meant to fall into their nest. It was an accident.

"Mandy!" Her brother called out, "Run!"

She couldn't run. She froze, stuck to the spot on the ground where she had tripped and fallen.

The beedrills' stingers began to gleam white, Amanda flinched back.

"No!" Brother screamed.

A flash of blue flew over her head. Striking the beedrill, and continued to fly into a tree. Green leaves and brown branches quickly burned into golden flames, and blackened wood.

Brother came running over to her, pulling her up on her feet. His arms wrapped around her tiny form in a relieved hug.

"What happened!?" Dad called, as he came running.

"Ri Ri is a wizard!"

Riley had saved her life that day, and now she couldn't even return the favor. This was something that she had been in debt to him for a long time. Some small part of her, hope that once this was over. When she had paid her dues, that she could finally forget Riley. Her brother had no use for her. She shouldn't have use for him.

He already made his need for her abundantly clear.

Amanda ran as fast as she could through the large long halls of the house. Her bear feet slapped against the hard wood floors. Eevee chasing after her. Riley was leaving today. The little girl ran to his room to say goodbye, but it was empty.

She was too late.

She had nearly reached the front door hoping to chase her brother down, but a thin hand snagged her shoulder and pulled her back.

"Where do you think your going?" Mother spoke.

"To say bye to Ri Ri," Amanda said.

"It's to say farewell. Bye is too casual," Mother said, "Besides you're too late, daughter. Riley has already left."

Amanda wilted. Her brother left? Riley left? Her brother didn't say good bye?

"Oh, wipe that sad look off your face. Don't worry Amanda, your brother has more important things to worry about now."

Amanda may not be the closest to her mom, but Professor Gen had been right about one thing.

Riley didn't need an annoying little sister weighing him down anymore.

She couldn't be a burden anymore.

She took a deep breath, shoved her glasses back into their place and turned her attention to the computer screen once more.

This is the least she can do.

Get her brother out of trouble.

Do her duty to the Gen name.

Despite the fact that she was utterly worthless in everything else.

Her eyes began to feel warm. Her throat slowly closing.

Tears? Seriously? What a pathetic bitch. She shouldn't let her emotions get in the way of her progress. Mother never let that happen to her. Riley probably never did either.

Dad? Dad had been sentimental. And it ended badly for him.

Just another life she ruined.

Just like everyone she touched.

Why couldn't she just do enough for everyone?

What was wrong with her?

Why was she so pathetic? Useless? Broken?

Why was she even here?

Dawn was always Sir Aaron's favorite hour to walk through his family's orchards. The gentle newborn rays of light would trickle through the young leaves, and remaining pale blooms on the trees. Wisps of the morning breeze, lifted his cape and played with his dark hair. The early chill forming dewdrop on the fresh green grass blades.

He took a deep breath. The sweet smell of the cherry blooms filling his nose and lungs. It felt like home.

The orchards were always quiet in the morning. Only the sounds of his own footsteps and breath.

Until the heard the singing.

"Into the garden, my love. Into the garden, my love. Into the garden, my love. Look me for me there, among the roses. Look for me there, among the thorns. I lay asleep. Waiting for thee. Waiting for thee to rescue me..."

Sir Aaron smiled; he knew that voice.

"...Into the garden, my love. Into the garden, my love. Into the garden, my love..."

He started towards it without thinking.

"...Look me for me there, among the roses. Look for me there, among the thorns..."

He weaved through the tree trunks.

"...I lay awake. Cold and afraid. Waiting to be taken away..."

Sir Aaron rounded a stump, at the edge of the orchard. The cliffs ahead of him.

"Emily?" He called and the singing came to an abrupt end.

His sister had her back towards him. She sat on a large low hanging branch. The horizon of the forest below the cliff and the rising sun in front of her. She wore a long flowing dress, colored in the palest petal blue. The skirt and sleeves long and flowing freely. Her long dark was worn down, spilling down her shoulder and back. It flew freely in the wind, whipping and whirling wildly. Blackened brambles adorned with pale white roses curled around her form. The thorns clinging to her dress and body as the vines twisting and twined around her. Their petals dried and withering.

"Aaron?"

Sir Aaron smiled, "Good morning sister. I've missed you."

Emily didn't turn around, but her shoulder shook with a small huff, "You're very late."

"My apologizes. You know how hard it is for me to get up the mornings that I visit home."

"Didn't I? I had to wake you every morning when we were children. It usually ended with me getting thrown to the floor by someone's pillow."

Sir Aaron winced, "You're never going to let me forget that are you?"

"As long as I was there to remind you."

"How have you been fairing? Has mother tried to arrange another marriage for since I've left?"

"Actually yes, she did."

"How do you plan on escaping this one?"

"I didn't."

"Pardon?"

"I didn't have a plan to escape."

"Do you love him? Your betrothed?"

"No. He was cold, controlling, cruel. Everything Father had wanted in a son-in-law."

"Then he is of the worst sort for you. Why don't you see need to plan your escape. You've always planned before."

"I used to have somewhere to go to escape. I didn't anymore. I was trapped Aaron. I had nowhere to run."

"You could've run to me. I would never turn you away."

"You weren't there, Aaron. You were gone."

"I'm right here," Sir Aaron said.

The knight walked closer, creeping up towards the branch. He reached a hand out towards her... and froze once he saw her. Once he saw the knife.

The front of her dress was stained the deep red of life blood. The scarlet pooled and blotched her loose bodice; dying the roses around her chest red. In the center of the of the red, right over her heart, was a single silver dagger. The metal handle, adorned with diamonds and pearls, was covered in bloodied fingerprints. Just as her hands, her hands laid gently in her lap, were stained red.

Yet, she still smiled.

"Emily..." Sir Aaron gaped.

"You can't save me Aaron. You're too late. Far, far too late."

"Emily...Who...who did this to you?"

"It doesn't matter who did this. It doesn't matter if it was by my hand or the people who pushed me towards it. It's done."

"How can you be so calm?"

"I've been like this for a long time Aaron."

Sir Aaron swallowed, his throat suddenly feeling tight. The horror filling his heart, quickly beginning to overflow. Drowning out any other feeling.

Emily let out a small chuckle, "Don't weep for me, Aaron. I'm finally free. You couldn't have changed anything anyway. You couldn't have saved me."

Sir Aaron stared, confused by his sister's words.

Emily's face saddened, "You couldn't help me, but someone else needs help."

"Emily?"

"She's drowning Aaron, and no one knows it. No one is coming to save her."

"Who Emily? Who's drowning?"

"They won't let her breath. They're choking her. They're killing her. She's in pain. So much pain. She's dying, Aaron."

"Who?"

Emily was silent for a moment, and then her grey eyes, her empty grey eyes, locked with his.

"Save her."

Sir Aaron woke up with a strangled gasp. His limbs failing slightly before he regained his composure.

He took a deep, shaking breath, running a hand over his face. A cold sweat on his brow. He swallowed. The knight wouldn't call the dream a nightmare, but it was still...unnerving. He glanced around the room to ground his mind, and slow his pulsing heart. The chamber was the same. The simple floor was still made of varnished wood. The walls formed from some material that appeared to be stone but wasn't stone at the same time. Lucario still curled up in the corner fast asleep.

Sir Aaron took another deep breath, closing his eyes.

Then he opened them to the creak of his chamber door.

Blue eye glanced up just in time to see Umbreon peak her head through. Red eyes looked up at the knight with panic.

"Umbreon?"

The shadow wielder leaped forward, jaw grasping onto the Knight's sleeve, and began tugged him towards the door.

"Umbreon? Whatever is the matter?"

Umbreon had lived up to her name as a Shadow wielder since the knight had met her. Silent, and unnoticeable, but always watching. Always by her trainer's side. Unmoving. Always ready. Patient. Waiting. Watching.

However now, the Pokémon appear frightened. Sir Aaron allowed Umbreon to drag him from his bed.

The black Pokémon clawed at the bathroom door. A small whimper coming from her throat. Sir Aaron looked at the door confused somewhat. A small line of light leaked out from the bottom of the door. Meaning someone was inside. Most likely Amanda, as the boys were still fast asleep. However, the bathroom was quiet, not a sound coming from the inside.

Sir Aaron knocked the painted wood lightly, "Amanda?"

No answer.

"Amanda are you alright in there?"

No answer.

"Amanda? You're worrying Umbreon. Please answer me.

No answer.

"I'm coming inside."

He griped the door handle cautiously. Opened the door and froze.

His niece sat on the bathroom floor, leaning against the side of the tub. Tear stains on her face and her arms covered in bleeding gashes. A small bloody knife held loosely in her limp hand. Her eyes still empty and her face still blank as she cried.

"Amanda," Sir Aaron gasped.

The knight rushed forward, grabbing one of the spare towels from the cabinet and then kneeled before his niece. The young woman didn't react when he tightly wrapped her forearm with the towel. He quickly repeated the action with the other arm. Once the worst of the bleeding was stanched, he pulled the towel away, the white fabric now a bright red, and began to heal the cuts one by one.

Arceus. There were so many. So, many tiny cuts on his niece's flesh. Like little slivers of ruby stabbed into her skin. And the scars. So, so many scars. Far more then the cuts she wore. Some white, some pale red, all of them crisscrossing each in horrid cross-hatching on her skin.

While appearing calm on the outside, Sir Aaron was panicking within. How did this happen? Why did this happen? There were too many scars, for this to happened once. But what on earth would drive someone to harm themselves in such a way?

The knight looked at her, looked at her soul, and swallowed back the urge to vomit. It was nearly black. A cold void where life was supposed to be. The vile thing, had nearly swallowed her aura whole. Squeezing and strangling her spirit, slowly killing like a band worn too tight on a limb. It looked dead.

"Amanda?" Sir Aaron called gently, using his free hand to tilt her chin towards him, "Can you hear me, dear?"

Amanda only blinked, a fresh set of tears dripping from the corner of her eyes.

The knight quickly finished healing his Niece's wounds, and then clean up the blood best he could. Umbreon had surprising knowledge regarding on how to remove the red stains, though he wasn't sure how she made the ruined towel vanish. When all was said and done, her tucked his niece back into her bed.

Removing her spectacles, he knew the moment her silent form slipped off to sleep. Her breath shifted and her empty eyes closed. He brushed away her bangs, and bit his own lip. His eyes flicked over to Umbreon, the Pokémon resting at her trainer's bedside.

"You knew about this, didn't you?" Sir Aaron whispered

Umbreon nodded.

"Why does she do this?"

Umbreon looked at the floor, before getting to her paws. The shadow wielder trotted over to Amanda's laptop. The Pokémon nudged the device open with her short snout. The screen lighting up with life as it opened.

Then she woke up Pichu. The yellow mouse seemed disoriented at first, but a few sharp words from Umbreon and he was fully focused. The lightning wielder leaped towards the device that was still on the floor. His tiny paws used the keyboard on the laptop with fluid experience. After tapping a few and using the smaller device that was ironically called a mouse, Pichu leaped off, and Umbreon shoved the laptop towards the knight.

Curiosity taking over Sir Aaron reached down and picked up the device. At the top of the screen, there were large orange letters that read, "'Chapter 14: Depressive Disorders'".

The screen was clearly from some sort of teaching book. The main subject seeming to be on an illness of the mind. And the more Sir Aaron read, the more he grew concerned. While the symptoms of this illness weren't a complete match, he could still pick out many that Amanda did show.

"'...the presence of sad, empty or irritable mood...loss of interest in pleasurable activities...appetite and weight changes, sleep disturbances, loss of energy, difficulty concentrating, feelings of self-reproach or guilt, and frequent thoughts of death, perhaps by suicide.'"

Sir Aaron swallowed. The last word of that sentence sending a chill up his spine. He wasn't a doctor, especially not a healer of the human mind, but it certainly seemed like his niece was suffering. And if it wasn't this depressive disorder, then it was something else. Her Pokémon seemed to think it was a correct diagnosis.

How could he help her? Especially in the worst case. His niece was ill, and he felt helpless. He read on. Did Sir Aaron believe Amanda was trying to die when he found her? No. However, he needed to know what might be happening to her if it were to come to that, and how to help her.

"'For adolescents and emerging adults suicidal crisis are often triggered by overwhelming interpersonal distress..."people desire death when two fundamental needs are frustrated"...the need to belong, to feel connected with others...the need for competence. If we do not perceive ourselves as able to do the things, we think we should be able to do, our need of competence was not met.'"

Sir Aaron, wasn't sure which would inflict his niece first, but he would be ready if the time came. He would protect her. Save her. Like his sister was trying to tell him. Amanda would not die from this, he swore it.

Chapter Text

Despite what most people would believe, especially with his career choice. Goh had never really been a very outdoorsy person. He could camp out if needed, but if there was the option for an actual bed, Goh would take it. The point was, he wasn't the best when it came to roughing it, and he only really enjoyed it in certain instances.

When it came to exploring a possibly ancient temple? Hell, yes! Goh was very excited to see the Aura temple ruins. The near guarantee of a discovery of this magnitude was far too juicy to pass up. So, he and the rest of the magic people packed up and got on the nearest train to Sinnoh.

However, if there was one thing that Goh wasn't imagining when it came to this trip. It was all these Arceus-damned plants!!!! Seriously, the young researcher had never seen brush this thick. He had been hit in the face at least three times by low hanging branches, and it wasn't even noon yet!

He tripped over the fifth root that morning and left out a frustrated groan.

"You don't get out much, do you?" Amanda said.

"Not more then I need to," Goh grumbled pulling himself out of the mud, "Why?"

"It shows," Amanda said.

"Oh, and let me guess, you're studying professional hiking on top of your bachelor's?" Goh said.

"No, I used to work in film, and there was a lot of scenes that were filmed outside. This is nothing compared to dance climbing a cliff in dagger pumps."

Ash let out a hiss of sympathy, "Daggers? Like six inches? Low to the ground."

"Pi?"

"Yep," Amanda said popping her lips, "You know heels?"

"I've worn a pair or two," Ash said rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

"Done drag? That wasn't mentioned in your file," Amanda said.

"No, well, not professionally at least..."

"Just like heels?"

"Giratina no! They're torture devices!"

"Then...?"

"Let's just say that drag is a great way to sneak into place that I'm not allowed into."

Amanda just stared at Ash, her brows furrowed, a look of disturbed disgust on her face.

Ash looked puzzled at his cousin's expression, then his eyes blew wide with realization, "No, no! Not like that! I meant like fancy parties, and gyms that I accidentally offended the leaders of and they wouldn't let me challenge them."

Amanda shook her head, "Whatever you say."

Ash looked at Goh, "You believe me right."

"I believe you wore heels, that's about what I skimmed from that conversation," Goh said.

More than I understood.

"What is 'drag'?" Sir Aaron asked.

Goh and Ash shared an uncomfortable glance. Explaining the sport of cross-dressing to a knight from an era where if the idea of sex was even breathed and they would call an exorcism, was something that Goh would never think he'd have to do. It would be really awkward, like explaining to your grandma what tinder was for, and Goh wasn't even related to this guy.

"Ah, well..." Ash said his voice going high.

"Don't worry," Amanda cut in, "I'll ruin his innocence for you later. Right now, can someone please tell us where the hell we are? Because we have been out here for nearly three hours, and it feels like we've been walking in circles."

"I apologize, for that," Sir Aaron said, "there used to be a pathway, but centuries of no tending to it, has made it hard to track."

"The number of plants isn't helping," Ash said.

"Not to mention weird," Amanda mumbled.

"What do you mean?" Goh said.

"Sinnoh's climate, even in summer, shouldn't be able to support this much plant life. It gets too cold, and the soil is too dry. Especially for greenery this thick," Amanda said.

Goh raised a brow.

"I took botany and earth sciences in high-school," Amanda said, "Not to mention there was a rather large garden at my house."

"Well, the vegetation is normal for the area of the temple," Sir Aaron said, "It had been built on a natural spout of aura, and the extra life energy makes the local plant life grow faster, and the waters cleaner, some pools even rumored to have healing properties. Some legends say it was built over Arceus' hatching place."

"A natural aura spout?" Goh said, "That's possible?"

"We had no explanation for how they occurred other than a few superstitions. However, we could identify them. Usually, they were guarded by a mythical or legendary, along with your abilities increasing when near them, and as we discussed the changes to the land around them," Sir Aaron explained.

"So, like the Tree of Beginning?" Ash said, "Mew's guarding it. All those crystals. The connection to aura. The crazy rock formation."

"Yes, it's considered one," Sir Aaron said, "One of the oldest, due to its blatant obviousness. However, the temple was always the most powerful."

"Hence the thick vegetation?" Goh said, brushing away a low hanging branch to reveal, even thicker brush.

"Well, it never got this bad," Sir Aaron siad, almost tiredly at the sight.

Desperate times? Lucario looked at Sir Aaron expectantly.

Sir Aaron sighed, "Back up."

Goh did as he was told, stepping back to stand where Lucario stood. Amanda and Ash following soot.

The knight stepped closer to the brush, mumbling something too softly to hear. The blue glow of aura burst forth from his palms, but it didn't form a sphere, or a shield. It became a sword. The blade like burning blue glass. It gleamed in the sun. Shining like a star. His grip tightened on the magic hilt as he raised the sword. The blade was swung over the knight's shoulder, a shock wave radiated off of the sword in an echoing thunderclap. It sliced through the air and split the brush in half. A shower of leaves was left gently dancing towards the ground in the end.

Sir Aaron took a deep breath, the sword dissipating from his hold with halted hum.

Goh was staring wide eyed, Amanda's brows had rose, and Ash's jaw was shamelessly hanging open. Pikachu and Riolu were copying their trainer's expression almost perfectly.

Lucario looked smug.

Sir Aaron cleared his throat, "I'll show you later. Shall we continue?"

Goh followed the group silently, all while a large stone structure in the distance slowly grew closer.

Amanda's black boots slowly turned grey as they clicked across the cracked tiles that were dusted with centuries year old dirt. She would be upset, but honestly, she was too curious for that right now, besides, the leather was old and she'd have to let these go soon anyway. With her allowance, she could probably scrape enough together to get a thrifted pair of sneakers in about 6 months. She could make her boots last that long, as long as she got back to her duties at the manor, and cut back on snacks.

How she missed the days when she had a job, and made her own money. Couldn't do that anymore. It was shameful enough that the young woman had once chose to work for other people, rather than serve her family, and repay all the debt she owed, but Amanda had to pick a profession as lowly as a lifeguard.

Mother never wanted her near water, and she went to great lengths to keep her away. She had stopped Amanda from renewing her license, and the young trainer couldn't afford to take a lifesaving course on her own; all her savings had to go to school, and future doctorate.

She walked over to a stone pillar. The column was obviously broken at the top, even with it being over grown with ivy; the deep green of the leaves paired nicely with the dirty black marble. The vines thick and healthy, apparently due to all the aura here. At least, she now had an answer as to why all the white roses at the manor seemed to bloom whenever either Riley, or her, played in the garden. Amanda pulled back a collection of leaves, staring that the worn, yet still intricate, designs that was chiseled into the stone so long ago.

A spark of...well she didn't want to say sadness, she still didn't like the idea of aura users. The bloody unfairness and hypocrisy of it all...but someone had taken pride in making this. They worked hard to make this beautiful, all through out these ruins, Amanda could see the passion that went into its creation. One artist to another, she could get it.

"Bree."

Umbreon rubbed against her leg. Gosh, the dark type had been so clingy over the last few days. Pichu too, the little mouse snuggling into her neck.

"Well, I have to say," Goh said, "This right here is probably one of the greatest archeological finds of the decade. Sure, there's damage, but if it looked like what's left is pretty well preserved."

"It's so big, how'd no one find this place before?" Ash said.

"Well, considering the overgrowth it'd be difficult to reach it, besides this entire stretch of forest is part of a nature reserve," Amanda said, "Technically we're breaking the law by being here."

"Wouldn't be the first time," Ash said, shrugged.

"You guys really shouldn't be this chill with this..." Goh said shaking his head.

Oh, you want to talk illegal Goh? There were of things that Amanda had been dragged into that would make the younger teenager whimper. Just because Ryme City described itself as a utopia paradise, with no crime or cruel acts didn't mean it actually was. The most beautiful flowers usually had rotten thorns.

She took a deep breath. And continued deeper into the ruins, unconsciously making a mental map as she walked.

It was difficult to tell, with all the age, damage, and vegetation, but she knew that the ruins were large. From what Amanda guessed was once the entrance walk way, she could see large curved stone walls that cut into the shallow hill slope-most likely it was once a terrace of sorts-with the main building sitting at the hill's peak.

Aura Guardians had liked their circles and arches, Amanda took note of. The main pathway had broken columns lining it. Curved piece of rubble had fallen onto the large, wide titled walk way. Some of the rubble big enough to still resemble what they once were. Once there were rows of arches, stretching high over these paths, broken and connected like a backbone. All of them leading to the large circular temple. The heart of the ruins, that had long stopped beating.

The temple was just as cracked and grown over as the rest of the ruin, but Amanda could pick out the black marble, and sandy stone. The layers between the two still somewhat distinct despite the decay. The temple was composed of a main building, that was attached to several smaller towers, like limbs on a body. It was large and intimidating, like a strong hold. Not the welcoming hall of learning that Uncle had describe it to be.

Then again, to any outsider it was probably not as welcoming as it was to a guardian.

Amanda nearly snorted. Was that what she was? An outsider? It wouldn't be the first time. She certainly wasn't like Ash, or Uncle Aaron, not even Riley. Amanda never accidentally blew up something with blue energy, she never created shield oof protection or a sword of destruction. She always thought she was...normal. Well, apparently, she was "special" too.

If only she could forget it.

Not here, no, being here she couldn't forget the magic powers she apparently was born with. Because, she could feel everything.

Ever since she was a little girl, Amanda would feel things. Little things. Like a hand on her shoulder, but no one was around. Or a whisper in her ear during the night. Or a sudden emotion, that she always somehow knew wasn't hers. Especially, when she was in certain places.

The eevee pasture was somewhere that made it easy to smile.

The graveyard, had a hanging feeling of sorrow and regret.

The rose garden, had feeling of relief, joy, and peace.

The manor? Well, it had the feeling of being trapped.

Here? Here though?

The temple grounds were a mix of things.

When Amanda looked at the overgrown fields in the middle of the terrace, she knew there was something there. She couldn't see them. She couldn't hear them. But she felt like there were children playing there. A feeling of laughter.

On the walkway. There were footsteps, that couldn't be heard. Some running and some walking. A feeling of rushing by, panic. Someone was late to something. There was excitement as well. Someone who couldn't wait to get inside of the mountainous structure.

Things took a dark turn when she reached the entryway into the temple. The wooden doors (how did she know that?) had rotted away, leaving a gaping maw of a gateway. Yet the doorway was still covered with a blanket of ivy and fabric. A heavy sense of dread.

And grief...

Amanda suppressed a shudder.

That wasn't coming from the temple.

Her grey eyes flicked to the right. Uncle.

His brows were furrowed. Expression pinched with pain. The rest of him bled with grief.

Amanda would be the first to say that she wasn't close with Uncle Aaron; they had met not even a month ago. Not to mention things had been awkward between them the past few days. She knew what he had seen, and she refused to discuss it with him. Despite Uncle Aaron desperately trying to talk to her about the incident. It was none of his business.

But Amanda also knew grief. How felt like it ate you from the inside out, leaving you heart hollow and head empty. It was both pain and numbness. Calm and chaos. It twisted you up until you didn't know which way was forward.

Uncle Aaron was gazing out at the terraces. Lucario was left with the younger boys, hopefully keeping them out of the trouble. The knight left alone.

"It's not your fault," Amanda mumbled.

"Pardon?" Sir Aaron said in a quiet voice.

"All this," Amanda gestured around, "You were stuck in a rock. The was nothing you could do."

"I know but it doesn't feel like it."

"It's in the past. Let go and move on."

"How would you suggest I do that?"

"Chuck it into the 'fuck it' bucket and get over it."

"Is that what you do with all your pain?"

Amanda suppressed a defensive growl into a glare. Here she was trying to be nice, and now he was turning it around on her, trying to manipulate her into talking about the fucking incident! No good deed goes un-punished. Why does she even try? She turned around and stepped closer towards the door.

Curiosity welled up, and she pulled out the flashlight she kept in her bag. She froze at what she saw on the wall.

"Well, I think it's saved to say, there's nothing out here," Goh said, and the rest of the boys came running up to them, "The structures are well preserved."

The giant cracks and rubble are new additions, for your log.

"Right..." Goh winced, "Any I don't think anyone's been here for long time."

"Your wrong," Amanda called, from where she stood just beyond the doorway's threshold, "Someone has definitely been here."

The gleam of her flashlight drifted over the interior of the first temple chamber. The shine ghosting over the red paint. Aura was blue, and the color was very much the standard for aura guardians. Not red. Especially not the red ringed image of moltras. They were everywhere. Some of the mediums different, some done with brushes other done with spray cans, but they were everywhere.

Valor.

Their footsteps seemed to echo louder in the now uncomfortable silence. The feeling of dread now shooting up her spine.

"Okay, this is freaky," Ash said.

Lucario reach down to paw at the largest symbol on the floor.

What language is this?

"It's Valor," Amanda said.

"Valor?" Uncle Aaron nearly scoffed, he felt almost angry.

Amanda sighed, "Okay, for all of us who haven't been a history class in the last 20 years, I'll give you the run down. When pokeball technology was finally developed to the point where they could made in-expensively by the now retired Professor Willow, more and more trainers came out of the woodwork. However, there was still no gym system yet, so there was to keep them in check, allowing fresh trainers to run wild. The result..."

"The Tri-Team War," Ash murmured.

"You actually know about this?" Amanda said.

"You do have to pass an exam in order to get a trainer's license. One of the main subjects was Pokémon league history," Ash said, "Also it's highly likely that my father was one of the soldiers killed."

Ash cleared his throat before continuing, "The fighting was global, and between different faction trainers over territory to capture and train Pokémon."

Amanda nodded, "Factions is the right word. The main conflict was from the three largest factions. Mystic, Valor, and Instinct. And the fighting only ended after Mystic and Instinct teamed up against Valor, defeating the remaining factions and then forming the modern-day Pokémon league."

"So, someone who was valor was what using this place as a base of operations?" Goh said.

"I'd say the graffiti would point to that conclusion," Amanda said.

Disrespectful mongrels.

"So, if this place was raided and taken over by valor wouldn't that mean that the information, we came for be gone?" Ash said.

"No," Uncle Aaron said shaking his head firmly, "Because all of the scripts were kept in the inner chambers, which only an aura user can access."

The knight moved with new found vigor, leading the group through the halls, and then in front of an elegantly carved stone door. A carving of Arceus's ring was perched on the head of the arch-shaped door way. Uncle reached out, his hand flaming with blue and pressed his palm against the center of the door. The blue glow fled from the center, traveling along the carved lines in the stone. The sound of gears began to grid and click. The noise grading to their ears. Stone split in half and groaned as the gateway opened up.

Amanda shown her flash light into the darkness, and clouds of newly disturbed ancient dust, and choaked.

Beyond the door, laid a bone yard.

Bodies were thrown about on the floor, laying on top of each other. Their flesh, long melted away, leaving dry, dust-stained bones in their wakes. Dread drenched the room, and death clinging to all surfaces. Final screams, that couldn't be heard, wailing.

"I think I'm going to throw up," Goh said.

Amanda couldn't blame him. They had just opened a tomb after all.

Horror.

There were no other words. Utter horror.

Sir Aaron had been a knight, he had fought for his queen and country. He had seen the aftermath of war, the bloody battle fields. The bodies laid a strewn. The hilts of their swords still warm in their cold palms, there silver blades and armor stained red in the rivers of blood.

This. This was no different in a manner of speaking.

His steps were quiet as he crept through the carnage.

Sir Aaron swallowed. This was a battlefield. A boneyard. A grave. Right in his home. He had clear memories, of himself as a child running laughing. Playing and joking with his peers. It had been such a happy place. A happy place that was now forever tainted. Tainted by this slaughter.

He truly was the last of his brethren.

His eyes began to burn, but he would not allow tears to fall. Not here. Not in front of the children. Children who had yet to see the wrath of war. They'd need him more.

So, he took a deep breath, muttering a silent prayer to Arceus and continued through the field of husks that were once his people. Some of them whom he probably once...

Sir Aaron choaked. There was one husk tucked away in the back. The bones lay slumped against the far wall, browning with dust. The armor rusted and the paint all but gone, but there was a charm around the wrist cuff. A gauntlet. The Arlon family crest carved into the aging metal.

Father...

Sir Aaron hadn't been close to his father. Sir Lance was a cold person. Never once had the elder smiled. Only when Sir Aaron had been a lad was there some form of connection, and that was through Sir Aaron excelling in his training. They had only drift further apart during adulthood. They had fought about something, Sir Aaron couldn't remember about what, but it shattered any structure they had in their relationship. But he didn't deserve this.

No one deserved to die in a genocide.

"You knew that one," Ash murmured.

At some point the lad come to stand at his side. Riolu and Pikachu clinging to his shoulders, neither small Pokémon wanting to touch the horrid mess on the floor. Horror, shock and fear rippled through out the lad aura. Ash leaned into Sir Aaron's side, and the knight couldn't turn him away, his one arm slinking around the lad.

Sir Aaron could feel Lucario gazing at him, a quiet understanding passing between them. They would speak of this later. Mourn later. Not when the children were present. Not when the last young were present.

What a legacy, these children were inheriting, a room of corpses.

The library was one of the center-most rings with in the temple. The hallways connecting the rings, were tall, tight and lined with blue lights that Sir Aaron had lit. No need for a flashlight here...

If it weren't for the dozens of skeletons, littering the floor, Ash would've called this place awesome.

Riolu had taken to smashing his snout into Ash's hair as the little Pokémon sat on his trainer's shoulder. Pikachu looked around wearily, his tiny claws digging into Ash's shoulder through his jacket.

Arceus this was so messed up.

And that was coming from Ash, someone who has seen a lot of fucked up shit.

They had split up into two groups as they explored the library. Ash went with Goh, and Sir Aaron with Amanda. Speaking of Goh, Ash's friend was as green as someone could get without actually throwing up. His friends' hands were shaking as they looking through scrolls, written in a language that neither of them could read.

"You, okay?" Ash asked.

Goh huffed, a near hysterical laugh, "Am I okay? Am I okay? I should be asking you that! We just walked through a field of bodies! And you're still calm! How can you be so fucking calm!?"

Ash shrugged, "Believe it or no Goh, this isn't all that weird for me."

"You just normally walk through boneyards?!"

"No, usually the dead people go in my arms and not on the floor."

Goh stared at him his mouth wide open, before he pressed his palms into his eyes, and let out a strangled noise, "Therapy," he squeaked, "You need so much therapy. Sir Aaron needs therapy. Amanda needs therapy. I'm going to need therapy after this. We all need therapy! So, so much therapy..."

Ash reached out to pat Goh's shoulder, "You good now?"

Goh sighed, "Not really."

"You'll get used to it. Just find something else focus on for now."

"Pika."

"Don't want to get used to this," Goh whimpered, "But okay, what exactly are we looking for?"

"Something about training, I think."

"Okay training...training means some form of manual...there probably in their own section. We need to see if there's a library guide or something," Goh said, staring to power walk back towards the entrance.

Turns out there was a guide carved into the wall next to the door, but once more, neither of them could read it. Arceus, Ash needed to know this language or code, or what where the fuck this was. Goh growled in frustration, and Ash ran a hand over his face.

"Nothing can ever be easy, can it?" Goh griped, "If only we could talk to someone about this, but everyone here is fucking dead so that's not happening."

Ash's eyes drifted over the table in between the two rack of shelves that lined up with the door frame. Specifically, to the purply-blue flower that was growing out of the stone surface, just off center from the middle of the table.

An idea sparked in the young trainer's mind, "They can't talk to us, but maybe they can show us."

Sir Aaron was looking over the scrolls, his hand lightly tracing over the very heavy layer of dust on them. This place was far dirtier than he remembered. The librarians, and scholars were always so particular about keeping their domain spotless. If they saw it like this...

Oh, who was he jesting!? He had to step over of their damned corpses to even get inside!

Arceus, he felt sick. Like something was clawing at his internals; Trying to scrape its way out of his throat. Whether it was an agonizing scream, shameful tears, or just disgusted vomit, was yet to be seen. By some miracle the knight is able to hold back the wild creature that was his grief. For now, at least. He'd breakdown later. When the children can't hear.

Sir Aaron took a deep breath, speaking of children. His niece stood quiet a few paces away, her back turned towards him, on the other side of the hall.

They hadn't really spoken. Of what happened the night before this trip. And well, after this trip, he wouldn't be able to talk to her about it for some time. He needed to say something now. Sure, it might just further break apart the fragile foundation their relationship is already on, but from what he read, she needed connection if to heal her mind. Connection was made through bonding. Bonding could be made through understanding and speaking.

Specifically, when they were alone. Amanda was a very private person. It was the second reason that Sir Aaron told Lucario to check around the library for any potential dangers. The first was actually looking for dangers.

"Are you alright?" He spoke up.

Amanda huffed, "I should be asking you that. Obviously, you're not fine with all this death."

"No. No I'm not. But I know I'm not the only one struggling..."

"Look," Amanda snapped, whirling around to face him, "Whatever you're trying to say, you're wrong. I have my life together with a realistic view point. If anyone here is struggling, its either you, or Ash. Both of you, show obvious signs of PTSD, and possibly delusional."

"Amanda, you're hurting yourself, now I may no know much about the future..."

"I've got it under control."

"...even I know that that isn't a behavior that a healthy young lady..."

Amanda started to laugh, the sound angry and bitter, "And what the fuck would you know about being a 'healthy young lady' Sir? Not even a modern one you wouldn't know shit about the ones from your era. Tell me what does a woman desire most?"

Sir Aaron swallowed.

"Oh, come on, this is literally one of Chaucer's tales. Those should've been a thing while you were alive. The answer is sovereignty over themselves. To have a fucking choice over their lives. Yet, that was the one thing that the fair maidens in your time were denied. They didn't get to pick whether or not they got married much less to whom. They couldn't have ambitions, or trades. So, don't fucking think you know a thing about me."

Master?...Am I interrupting?

Lucario poked his head out from behind the shelf to the right, peering into the isle. Sir Aaron knew that his partner had heard everything, those long ears always caught sound much better then human ones.

"No," Amanda quickly said, "you're fine. The conversation was over."

Sir Aaron tried not to let the bitterness that bled from Amanda's soul further taint his mood. She was hurting, and still young, she didn't have control of her soul just yet. No matter how much she pretended to be.

"What did you Lucario?" The knight spoke.

Most of the damage is likely from weather and age, only a few of the halls I would call unfit for travel. Strangely though the entrance to the inner sanctum is untouched.

"Inner sanctum?" Amanda raised a brow, her anger slowly switching to curiosity.

True to Lucario's words the door to the inner sanctum was still intact. The stone still stood strong. The immaculate carvings remained, despite the paint slowly fading and dusted over. The metal key hold now dulled where it once gleamed. The Alpha's ring etched into the door center, the keyhole as it's bullseye.

"So, what's behind door number three?" Amanda said, flatly.

"That is knowledge that even I do not know," Sir Aaron murmured.

"Really, did you used to live here, once upon a time?"

"When the temple was built by the first order of aura guardians, they chose this valley as it was rumored to be where Arceus hatched. The inner most sanctum was crafted over the spot they believed was the birthplace of the alpha. Only the elders, the ones who interpreted Arceus' will, were allow to enter."

"So, because you weren't an elder, you never been inside? Not even as a kid you'd tried to sneak in and view the forbidden fruit?"

"I couldn't," Sir Aaron said tracing the keyhole with his finger tips, "Unlike the rest of the temple. The door needs not just aura, but an amulet key charm, to open it. Only 8 were ever made, one for each of the original elders. My grandfather held one, my father was due to receive it by the time of his death."

Amanda stalked closer towards the door, her dark thin brows furrowing as she gazed at the keyhole. The expression wasn't one that Sir Aaron could put a name too. Was it recognition? Or suspicion? Maybe just plain curiosity. She puckered her lips, and clicked her tongue.

"Uncle?" She spoke.

"Yes?" Sir Aaron said.

"You said that Aura was needed to open the temple doors, right?"

"Yes, they were made that way so, only non-user guests were allowed to enter. They'd have to close to a user in order to gain entry to inner chambers."

"Yeah, yeah I got that, but if Team Normalcy, didn't have any users...then how did they get in here?"

Ash took a deep breath as he approached the stone table.

It had been a long time since he had acknowledged the existence of time-flowers. Honestly, the young trainer had never wanted to use one of them ever again, after what happened at the Tree of Beginning. He'd seen them pop up every now and again. Usually when shit was about to go down. However, they were everywhere all over the temple grounds. They were growing out of the flipping walls.

It was like the tree all over again.

Nope. Nope. Nope. Don't go down that path Ash.

He let Riolu and Pikachu down on the ground and reached out. The tightly curled petals felt cold against Ash's palm, with an odd rhythmic pulsing pushing through the flower itself and into his skin. That pulsing swelled when Ash's fingers brushed against the petal veins. The bud unfurled, twisting slowly and opening wide. A gleaming white sphere rose from the center of the open flower, and flashed.

The light washed over the room, shifted in rough orange stone into a hazy grey-ish tone. The room slowly becoming a lost memory, of what it once was. Water down figures formed, some standing by the door but two were standing where Ash was. Startled by this, Ash jumped to the side, away from the forms.

The people were dressed in suits of armor, bloody suits of armor, holding torches and stained swords. Only one was dressed differently. A cloak and tunic of muted blue, and blue eyes rested in his face. Some how Ash knew, this one was once a guardian. One of the knights, one who had a feather in his helmet. was standing in front of the guardian. His stature one meant to intimidate, and by the twitching of the guardian it was working.

"I do hope you know what you speak of, Warlock," The knight glared, "Speaking falsehoods, would only ensue your demise."

"I promise you; you have my word. Once the inner sanctum is destroyed, the rest of the Aura Blessed will fall. Equality and peace will be possible. I want a world where there is no difference between just as much as you do. All we need is your squires to grab the keys off of the foolish elders and our future is secure," The guardian said.

Echoing footsteps marched into the room from the opposite side. A new Knight entered, his helmet removed, and a wounded old man being dragged in behind him, "SIR!"

The Feather Helmet knight walked around the table, the guardian following him and stood a few paces away from the bared headed knight. The helmetless one tossing the old man at the other knight's feet.

"Elder Merlin, my how far your great has fallen," The feathered knight spoke.

"My people? My people are the ones who have fallen? Look at your troops, your men! Whose people had just slaughtered through children," the old man, Elder Merlin spoke.

"Enough chatter, where are the keys?"

"Destroyed."

"No! You'd never old man!" The other guardian all but screamed.

"You'd be surprised about what people are capable of, my grandson," the elder spoke, "I know that I am. You had such promise little one."

"Enough!" The feathered knight shouted, turning to the helmetless one, "Is this true?"

The helmetless knight, swallowed, "We found the remains of seven destroyed keys."

"No..." the guardian whispered.

"The knowledge of our alpha will forever be sealed from the cruel hands of a fool such as yours," the Elder spoke.

"No, old man, it is you who is the fool," the feathered knight spoke, raising his sword and slicing down. Cutting the elder's head off. The body falling to the ground, where the old man's skeleton would forever lay.

"Search for survivors, let none remain breathing!" The feathered knights screamed before dropping his voice, "Now time to tie loose tassels," He whirled around facing the guardian, his sword raised.

The guardian began to quake, slowly backing up, eventually hitting the stone table, "No. No. You can't do this. I led you here! I watched as you slaughtered. I let you in! I am you ally!"

"Your actions do not make you an ally, only proving you're a traitor," The knight raised his sword further, and thrusted the blade through the guardian's chest and into the stone table

"Your kind are a plague. Better to cut if off then allow it to spread."

The memory faded, the world restoring into its normal colors. The bodies melting away; the elders into his skeleton, and the guardian's vanishing. Only the gash from the blade in the stone table remaining.

Ash managed to swallow his bile; Goh wasn't so lucky. The blue-eyed trainer dry-heaving into the corner. Riolu clung to his leg, and Pikachu jumped back onto his shoulder. In a daze, the dark-haired trainer walked over to the scarred side of the round table. His had lightly touching the score in the rock.

"He betrayed them," Ash murmured.

There was the sound of rapid footsteps...and then the wall blew in.

Chapter Text

There was a heavy swirl of dust in the surrounding air. Ash tried to breathe, but half-way through the oxygen got stuck. The taste metal and dirt coated his mouth and tongue, as he choaked and coughed. His entire body ached, and Ash was pretty sure that he had just been blown up. Riolu an Pikachu were underneath him, Ash having some how tucked his Pokémon underneath him, shielding them. He could hear Goh groaning from some where to his left.

That left only one question…what the fuck hit them?

Ash!

Rubble was being moved off his back, and he felt the concerned jumpy static that could only becoming from the telepathic Lucario. Sir Aaron wasn’t far behind, his hand gently and firmly lifted the younger user back upright.

“Are you alright?” Sir Aaron asked, beginning to try to brush away the thick layer of dust that was coating Ash’s body.

Ash coughed and choaked once more, and cleared the dirt from his watering eyes, but nodded. Glancing to the right he saw that Amanda was currently getting Goh back to his feet. She actually looked concerned in that moment. It was a focused concern, but concern none the less.

“What hit us?!” Goh said.

No one go the chance to say anything more…because a flash of blackened shadow blasted over their heads, and struck the wall behind them with a loud screech and crash. Pikachu, Umbreon, and Lucario, rushed to the head of the room, putting distance between the humans in their group and whatever the heck was shooting at them.

“I believe that would be me,” A unknown and deep voice hummed. It sounded rich and smooth, but the undertone was filled with malice, like poisoned honey.

Ash looked up, and felt his stomach turn violently. That man standing just beyond the threshold of the giant hole in the wall, looked normal; pale complexation, snowy white hair, and eyes blacker and shaper then obsidian. He was dressed in a long trench coat, black as his eyes, and the rest of his outfit spoke of wealth and poise. However, despite his seemingly well put together appearance, the sight of him sent a shiver throughout Ash’s whole body. Like something was slowly rotting underneath the polished exterior.

He felt Sir Aaron shiver as well, while Amanda tensed slightly. Goh didn’t react nearly at all. Like he didn’t know what type of danger stood in front of him.

“Who are you?” Sir Aaron said.

The stranger raised a playful brow, and almost seemed amused by the question, “Who am I? My, my, it has been a long time since anyone paid enough attention to me to ask that. Everyone always looked towards the brighter pupils.”

“You didn’t answer my question,” Sir Aaron said.

The stranger rolled his eyes, “Goodness me, you already know that answer. Have you truly forgotten about me Aaron?”

Ash swallowed, and for a moment Sir Aaron looked unsure, “Do I know you?”

The stranger sighed, “That’s what they all said,” then his whistled a low trilling note.

Ash was instantly confused, however recognition flooded Sir Aaron face. It looked like he was suddenly splashed with cold water.

“Anwir?” Sir Aaron said.

The stranger (Anwir? What type of name was that?) started laughing, “The ‘I’ve seen a ghost’ expression never gets old.”

“How are you alive?” Sir Aaron said.

Anwir smirked, “I should be asking you the same thing big brother. The messenger said you had returned to Arceus’ hold. Clearly, it didn’t stick.”

“No, mew intervened at the last moment. Sparing me,” Sir Aaron said, “I truly thought we were the last. It’s so good to see your after the tragedy.”

Anwir huffed, “Tragedy. All this? This isn’t tragedy.”

Sir Aaron’s brows furrowed, “You stand before a boneyard of our brethren, if this is not tragedy, what is it?”

“Retribution.”

“You can’t possibly mean that.”

Anwir chuckled, “You’d believe that wouldn’t you. That this,” he gestured around, “This is a massacre. Good old Sir Aaron, house of Arlon. Aura Progeny. Top of his class. Purely bred. Of course, the Guild’s golden son would preach their word without thought. Their loyal little lap dog.”

Lucario growled.

“Why wouldn’t I be loyal?” Sir Aaron said, “The guild was my home. My people. Just as they were yours…”

“Your people perhaps yes, but they were not mine. I saw the raw infection that the Guild allowed to fester with in itself, and I was called mad. They weren’t my people. They were never my people. We might have shared a father, Aaron, but that was all that we shared,” Anwir said.

“Nothing was rotten, with in our people. They were healers, protectors, teachers, explorers.”

“Oh, but there was. Healer? Try Dismemberer. Protector? Enforcer. Teacher? Indoctrinator. Explorer? Conqueror. They were ready to condemn before we would listen.”

“We did not teach hatred.”

“Perhaps they didn’t to you…but those whom they saw as lesser, those people might as well not have been human. Their fall was their punishment for their cruelty,” black eyes flicked over to Amanda, “And I’m not the only one who believes it. My dear niece, tell me what action comes after once peaceful communication doesn’t work.”

“Violent communication,” Amanda said, staring Anwir down, eyes fierce but stance hesitant, “But I’m sorry who are you?”

“Brother dear,” Anwir looked at Sir Aaron, “You didn’t tell my niece and nephew of me? I’m disappointed.”

“Niece and Nephew?” Ash said, “You’re our uncle?”

“Yes, child. My name is Anwir Fey, house of Arlon. The youngest of Lance Arlon’s children.”

“You actually expect us to believe this? Even if what you say to true you should be dead,” Amanda said.

“Oh, they tried. But like always, they underestimated me,” Anwir said, “I was far more powerful than they ever believe. I can show you little ones if you wish.”

“Wait a minute, why are you here? Do you normally roam around this mass grave? Something is telling me you’re not a sentimental guy,” Amanda said, her words becoming snippy.

“And how did you come to that conclusion dear niece,” Anwir said.

“You’re walking around like your proud. Your unbothered. You have no remorse for what happened here, you don’t even have horror, or pity. You feel nothing but pride. Like you had a hand in it,” Amanda said.

“You read people well,” Anwir said.

“I’m a psych student, it’s what I’m trained for,” Amanda said.

“No, you’re an aura-user, it’s instinct,” Anwir looked to Sir Aaron, the Knight looking like he was about to be ill, “With that type of emotional intuition…She’s strong. Everything Emily ever wanted to be. It’s almost sad that she’ll never reach her full potential.”

Anwir’s eyes a-lit with blackened flame, “And to answer your question dear, niece. I’m here to tie up loose ends.”

It all happened faster than the blink of an eye. Black tendrils of dark smoke and fire, surrounded Anwir’s body. Cupped in his pale hands, flaring between his thin fingers, was something that Ash could only describe as what he thought the true body of a mimikyu looked like. Horrifying, and drenched with death. Just like this place.

A flash of black burst forth from his hands flying right towards them. Ash flinched and hit the deck out of instinct gained from the many different explosions he had lived through (Thank you Team Rocket). But the hit never came. Opening his brown eyes and looking up, Ash was met with a wall of glowing blue, behind it a veil of black smoke.

Sir Aaron had rushed forward his own hand gleaming with blue, and eyes burning bright.

“I don’t know what black magic you’ve tainted yourself with brother, but you will not harm these children,” Sir Aaron said, the shield dropping and the smoke clearing.

“Tainted?” Anwir’s voice trilled, “I prefer the word, evolved. For once big brother, I have the upper leg on you, and do you want to know the reason why?”

Anwir’s eyes filled with black…and then…and then…Ash felt dizzy, but the feeling left after a moment, and then…Amanda choaked.

Ash turned to his cousin, and his first thought was ‘like fucking exorcist’. Amanda had fallen to her knees, her body spasming, as she gasped for air. Her eyes slowly becoming shadows of themselves. Irises becoming pale white stones in pools of black ink.

“I no longer have limitations,” Anwir said, his hand out stretched towards Amanda.

Umbreon, burning red rage in the Pokémon eyes, immediately fired a shadow ball at the rogue Aura (if what ever the hell this was, was aura) user. Pichu wasn’t far behind, having been thrown from his place on his trainer’s shoulder, his tiny cheeks sparked menacingly despite his small size. The tiny yellow mouse left loose one of the strongest thunder shocks that Ash had ever seen…

But their efforts meant nothing…

Anwir deflected the attacks, with a dark reflection of an aura shield. Throwing the moves back at them, as if it was a mirror coat.

“Electro web!” Ash screamed.

Pikachu leaped up, lighting gathering at his tail, before the curled web was flung forward. The electricity ropes attached themselves to the floor and ceiling, catching the returned attacks in the makeshift net.

“You won’t distract me that easily,” Anwir said, before he was suddenly knocked back by an aura sphere. Rolling across the floor, before slamming into the back wall.

Amanda went limp, falling to the floor. Umbreon was immediately by her trainer’s side nudging Amanda with her snout. Ash let out a sigh of relief once he saw her stir, opening her no back to normal eyes.

“胸にオーラスフィア？私たちは子供ですか” Anwir spoke as he pulled him self up from the floor.

Seemingly un-harmed.

Or he had one hell of an adrenalin trip. Ash got a lot of those, maybe they were genetic.

“それらを回避する方法を学んだことがないんですか？弟、私たちはもう子供ではないかもしれませんが、あなたはそこにいる人たちを傷つけないでください。何がきっかけでここに来たのかは分かりませんが、これで終わりです。” Sir Aaron answered, and aura sphere floating in his grasp.

Okay, now Ash was confused. He didn’t know what was being said. None of the other humans seemed to know either. Lucario seemed to be tuned in however. The jackal-like pokemon’s long ears were subtly twitching back and forth, eyes darting between the two elder users. He understood, not only the tense atmostphere, but the words themselves.

Maybe Ash’s should’ve paid more attention the one foreign language class he was in a few years ago.

“あなたは自分が何を擁護しているのか分かりません。子どもであろうとなかろうと、彼らは危険です。まず、そしてほとんどの人にとって。” Anwir spoke, summoning his own blackened ball. It looked like a Shadow Ball attack, but it thrashed instead of spun. It looked like a sicker version of the move, like stained souls were crumpled together. Stitched together like a Frankenstein amalgamation.

“あなたは彼らに害を及ぼすことはありません。させませんよ。” Sir Aaron said.

“忠誠心の選び方が下手だよ、兄貴。” Anwir said.

Something small was pulling on his sock. Ash glanced down, careful not to move his head, and draw attention to himself. The tension in the room was thick and tight, ready to snap at any moment. For some deep gut reason Ash knew that this was going down hill and fast. By his foot he found Pichu, hiding behind his heel, just out of Anwir’s view. Once the little mouse saw that he had Ash’s attention, he pointed over to Amanda with his small yellow paw.

His cousin, honestly looked pale, and her brows were pinching like she had a headache, but she was standing up again. Leaning on Umbreon, but back on her own two feet. Her grey eyes met with his brown, and then she looked up. A slight movement with chin, gesturing him to follow suit and look upward.

His gazed scanned the ceiling, and then locked on to the large dark crack among the stone.

Riolu let out the tiniest squeak. Ash didn’t think that anyone could’ve heard him. Any human at least. One of Lucario’s ears swiveled back, seeming tuned in on Riolu. Another squeak, and and shared glance between the pup and adult, and Ash knew that Lucario was paying attention.

Ash?

No one reacted. A single communication pathway.

“Get ready to grab Sir Aaron, and run,” Ash thought back.

We need to sneak through the right hall behind us. The left is too unstable.

Ash gave a small nod.

A plan was set…and not a moment too soon.

Ash had no idea what they were talking about, but the conversation had reached a boiling point. Anwir launching not one, not two, but four of his corrupted aura spheres. All of them hurling towards the group with impeccable accuracy.

You can’t dodge an aura sphere, some voice in the back of Ash’s head said but you could stop it.

Pikachu used electro web again, blocking three of them. However, the fourth one swerved to the side. Ash was impulsive, but he had nothing on what happened within the next five seconds. Amanda pulled Goh behind her, a hand raised, seemingly out of instinct. Then there was a bright cyan flash. Not a shield, not a sphere, but most definitely aura. It crackled out of her body, latched onto the tainted sphere and split it apart. A shockwave echoed out from the impact.

At the next second, Lucario, Riolu, Pichu and Umbreon coordinated attacks at the ceiling. Just as planned the roof came in and they all ran down the right hall behind them.

“Get your legs to work!” Amanda called, her hand clinging to the back of Goh’s hoodie, dragging him behind her.

“What just happened?! Who was that?!” Goh screamed.

“While, I agree with your track of thought,” Amanda said, “Questions later, that cave-in is not going to hold him for long. We need to be long gone by the time he gets through.”

“Right, right,” Goh said getting back on track, “Okay, where’s the closest exit?”

Don’t look at me, I’ve never been this deep in the temple walls.

“Well, uncle? Where the hell are we going?” Amanda said.

“There’s no remaining exit that Anwir would know about, we can use…but…mail shoots,” Sir Aaron said.

“What?” Goh said.

“Turn left here,” Sir Aaron said, “When the temple was still active, our main source of communication was letters done by wing delivery, then it’d be dropped through a series of slides that sent them all over the grounds. The letters often got stuck so they’re big enough to carry a person.”

“We slide down the shoots we get out of here,” Ash said.

“Exactly,” Sir Aaron said.

The ground suddenly began to shake violently. Almost making the group fall to the stone floor. A loud crashing sound, that was quickly followed by a wave of shadows and smoke rushing passed them faster then they could catch.

“Do you think he got through?” Goh said.

“We shouldn’t stay and find out!” Amanda said.

Their footsteps rang loud and rapid against the stone floor, and echoed off the tall walls, and ceiling through out the wispy hall. Footsteps running. Footsteps running. Footsteps running. Footsteps walking.

*click clack click*

What?

Ash slowed down, and looked behind them.

“Ash?” Sir Aaron called, “is something wrong?”

“Do you hear that?” Ash said.

*click clack click*

“What is that?” Goh whispered.

“Lucario?” Sir Aaron said, and the aura Pokémon dreadlocks rose.

I’m not sure.

*click clack click*

Around the corner of the hall, came the monster that owned the footsteps. Limps with out flesh, stepped into the light. Their clothing was only a shroud of blackened smoke and sludge. Skeletons made of withering yellow bone stalked towards them. Their life long ripped away from their being. Literal walking dead.

“I thought Aura couldn’t raise the dead!” Goh said.

“Whatever power Anwir is harnessing, it isn’t aura,” Sir Aaron said.

All conversation was cut off when a shadow ball flew towards the skeleton pack, blowing them away like a bunch of dizzy bowling pins. All eyes darted back to obvious culprit’s trainer.

“What are you all standing around for?! Those things are obvious supposed to catch us so he doesn’t have to chase us! We need to move!” Amanda said.

The entrance to the mail room was easily found, and the door easily opened. However, keeping it shut was another story. Amanda had been right. The Skeletons were after them. They were mostly harmless. Only a few of them were really a problem; the ones who had died with swords in their grasp. Yeah, Ash let pikachu handle those in a bizarre moment of self-preservation, and Goh clinging to him with a death grip.

Amanda and Sir Aaron however? Forget it. Apparently, Amanda was trained in self defense by her dad, and she could fight like a ninja just as well as she could sneak like one. And Sir Aaron was trained in sword fight, which Ash really shouldn’t be as surprised as he was by that (“You do realize this guy was knighted right?” – Amanda).

Currently the skeletons were swarming the mail room. A large wave of bones to large to be blown away by any move, at least not with out hitting the living humans inside as well. They were quickly split up from each other, washed away from the rest of the group. Amanda and him had been pushed towards the left. Riolu had been on the floor and got kicked away from his trainer. One moment Ash had the pup by his leg and next he was gone.

“Riolu!” Ash called into the seas of skulls.

“We need to jump!” Amanda said, gesturing to the mail shoot behind them.

“What about the others?”

“We’ll meet up with them outside, but we can’t stay here!” Amanda said, while kicking out the legs of Skeletons in the front row of the swarm.

Ash let out a frustrated growl, knowing that his cousin was right. They needed to go now, he grabbed her shoulder, and started to pull her toward the mail shoot.

Down they slid, screaming at the top of their lungs. But all Ash could think of was the people they seemed to have left behind.

Chapter Text

Goh really needed to stop eating dust, however it seemed as if dirt was determined to become a major part of his daily food intake. The mouthful of the ground he ate once he was done tumbling out of the mail shoot was enough evidence of that.

“Boot?”

The young trainer picked his head up from the ground, finding Raboot standing over him. His partner’s expression as concerned as it was going to get. She just was very blank. Like a certain Dark-haired trainer, he met a few weeks ago. Gosh, his Pokémon partner was channeling the innerness of a most likely mentally struggling teenager. Well, that was a horrifying conclusion Goh thought, as he slowly sat up.

A tiny sneeze echoed next to him, and suddenly Goh realized that Pichu had fallen down the same tube he had. Not the one with his trainer. The tiny pale-yellow mouse rubbed his face with his paws, his nose scrunched up. Poor little guy.

A hiss of pain came from Sir Aaron. The adult laid on the soil a few feet away, wincing as he picked himself up. No one else was around them.

“Are you alright?” Goh asked.

Sir Aaron nodded, “Yes. It is merely that I was much smaller last I did that…and I do not remember it hurting that much.”

“Well, you were a kid and now…wait how old are you?” Goh said.

“Technically, centuries,” Sir Aaron huffed, “but I’ve only truly seen 36 winters in my life.”

Goh hummed and stood up, “Well, good news I think I we lost the skeletons. Bad news is that we also lost the rest of our group.”

“If they escaped, we will find them. Despite the out pour of aura on these grounds, users still look different from their surroundings,” Sir Aaron said, getting to his own feet and walking towards the woods.

“Right, you can…see them? Sense them? Is there a proper term for that?” Goh spoke, already following the knight.

Pokémon following them at their heels.

“Both words would work, but there was a word in aura tongue for it.”

“And that word is…?”

“It would take you all day, and a blessing from Arceus himself for you to pronounce it properly.”

“Got it.”

They continued to travel by foot. The trees and shrubbery, was thick. And there was no sun because thick cloud cover had rolled in at some point. It was very gloomy atmosphere, as Goh followed Sir Aaron to who knows where.

Arceus, he was so tired. It was probably only around 3 in the afternoon, but Goh felt completely drained. Though, maybe that had to do with running away from possessed skeletons…And waking up at 6 am (because Amanda was very strict when it came to keeping schedules) …And having not eaten since breakfast…and a number of other annoying things that he couldn’t name at the moment, but they bothered him.

He didn’t even want to think about how this could get worse.

There was a sudden crack of thunder, and then came a decently harsh down pour.

Goh took a deep frustrated breath and looked up at the sky, “Why?!”

Pichu squeaked from his spot in the ground and began to run towards Sir Aaron. The tiny mouse climbed up the knight’s clothing until reaching his head, and Pichu tucked himself underneath Sir Aaron’s hat. The aura guardian, made a small noise of amusement, and let the electric type do as he pleased.

“Only Arceus knows his plans,” Sir Aaron said, “Come now, it’s best we search for shelter. The others will most likely do the same. We can continue searching once the worst of the storm has passed.”

Goh nodded, holding back a shiver from the suddenly icy rain. Why was Sinnoh so cold again?

It was a few moments of silence, before Goh couldn’t take it anymore. Sure, he was exhausted. However, there was some form of buzzing energy still inside of him, and he need to either talk or listen to someone talk. So, he opened his mouth and…

“Can I ask you a few questions?” Goh said.

“I suppose it will be a good distraction from our current predicament,” Sir Aaron said, almost tiredly.

“Well…uhm…I don’t mean to get too personal…but what’s with the Arceus thing?”

“Pardon?”

“Well, there was a lot of Arceus imagery in the temple and you mention him a lot…”

Sir Aaron took a deep breath, “Arceus is the reason for aura in the first place. It’s his own lifeforce that flows through all he’s created. As such the Aura Guild are…were devout followers of the Alpha.”

Goh, made a quiet not really identifiable sound. He really should have seen it coming. The medieval era was a time were religion sometimes over shadowed science and logic. At least in Goh’s opinion. He leaned towards a more agnostic perspective on life, even if most of his ancestors were Mewish.

“It was believed that we were Arceus’s chosen people, that we held the Alpha’s favor. Clearly, we’ve lost that now…” Sir Aaron trailed off.

“Are you okay?” Goh said.

“I…I will be,” Sir Aaron said.

The rest of the walk was traveled in silence. Only the whispering of rain water spoke to them, along with the squelching of mud beneath their boots.

“Are we lost again?” Goh shouted over the heavy rain and roaring of the river that ran just below where they walked.

“No, I don’t believe so,” Sir Aaron said back, “The others are just on the other side of the river bank. There should be a bridge just up ahead.”

“Wonderf-“ Goh tried to say…

But a sudden crack of thunder, and a flash of lighting splitting the dark stormy sky, startled Goh, sending the young trainer stumbling. The steep river bank scraped against the inside of his leg, and suddenly Goh was falling.

Down.

Down.

Down.

Splash.

When Goh hit the water, he thought he was burning. A shock of hot static traveled across his exposed skin, before the cold rushed it. His limbs slowly went numb as he thrashed for air, but the river was a churning bubbling soup that pulled and pushed him. Swallowing his body whole, and shoving him away from the surface.

Darkness slowly began to creep in as his lungs burned.

Then hands looped underneath his armpits and pulled…

“Grab the log!” Far away, yet right next to him, someone screamed.

Chapter Text

"PIKA!!!!!!!!"

Ash was not ashamed to admit he screamed as he slid down the mail shoot. It was like the worlds driest, dustiest, and most terrifying, waterslide in the world. Wind rushed past his ears, whistling as I whooshed away, and slapping him in the face with cold needles. Pikachu's claws dug into his shirt, causing pinpricks of pain as they sank through the fabric and into his skin.

What was weird was that Amanda wasn't screaming. Ash only managed to catch a glimpse of his cousin during the fall. Her expression was non-existent. Just a blank face, like he had looked at a mannikin.

The end of the utter terrifying ride came abruptly. Ash hit the rough ground, clicking his teeth together making his jaw ache, and then rolled like a rag doll who had been thrown. He had dirt stuck in places he hadn't even known existed and mouth and nose full of fur from Pikachu landing on his face. At least his little buddy wasn't hurt too badly.

Pikachu shook himself off, and then climbed down Ash's stomach. The electric mouse's little claws thankfully not hitting everything important on their exit. With Pikachu in his lap, Ash sat up with a groan. There were brush burns and scrapes covering his exposed skin, and tomorrow there would be stiff muscles and bruises adding to it. Wonderful. He'd ask Nurse Joy if she had painkillers at the Poke-center they hit.

"Fuck."

Ash turned to look at his cousin. Amanda was kneeling in the dirt. Her posture ridged, and her eyes wide.

"What's wrong?" Ash said.

"Do you see my glasses anywhere?" Amanda said.

"Your glasses?" Ash said getting to his feet, only now noting that the eye-wear was missing from her face.

"Yes, my glasses! Can you see them?" Amanda turned to look at him, but she wasn't looking I his exact direction, face turned to look at something just off of where he stood.

Her greys looked oddly empty, pupils twitching from side to side, trying to focus on something but could grasp it. Even with the rest of her face squinting to find something in the fog. Ash raised his hand and waved it close to her face. She didn't react.

"Did you see that?" Ash asked.

"All I see is a world of fuzzy blobs," Amanda said flatly.

"Oh, you really can't see."

"Yes, I can't!" Her voice rose a few octaves, "Now help me!"

Ash raised his hands in a surrendering mannerism and began to look around their landing site. Behind him he heard Amanda make a whistle noise. He turned briefly, seeing Umbreon run up to her trainer's side. Amanda then put a hand on Umbreon's back and slowly stood up, before moving her hand to rest a little further up the dark types back. Ash recognized the position. It was blind trainers did with their seeing eye Pokémon when they didn't have a harness.

Thankfully, Amanda's glasses had only flew a few feet away from where she landed. Ash picked up the glasses, by the side of the blue frame. The eye wear was dusty and the plastic frame was scraped on one side, but the lens looked intact.

"Found them!" Ash called.

"Thank Arceus!" Amanda said, "Are they broken?"

"Just dusty, you want me wipe them off?" Ash said.

"No! Do not use your shirt on them! The last thing I need is for you scratch the lenses."

Amanda held out her hand, and Ash placed the glasses in her palm. Her fingers were hesitant when she closed them, subtly shaking. Ash didn't miss the quiet sigh of relief she breathed once the glasses were once more on her face.

"Come on," Amanda said in a quiet voice, like she was exhausted, "We need to find the others."

Amanda began walking, Umbreon sticking close to her side. Her arms crossed, held close to herself.

Ash shared a glance with Pikachu.

"Are you okay?" Ash said once he caught up.

Amanda raised a brow, rigidness back into her posture, "Why wouldn't I be?"

Ash raised a brow of his own, "You were made into angsty older copy of Regan from the Exorcist."

"I'm fine," Amanda said, "It wouldn't be the first time a family member has tried to take away my free will," She made a sound that was cross between a laugh and whimper, that was being hanged from a tree.

"Arceus," Ash said rubbing his face, "Your right, he's, our uncle! We're related to a murderer!"

"Murderer? Wow, I know you and Uncle Aaron think that what happened in there was bad, but..." Amanda said.

"No," Ash said, "He let them in."

"He let who in?"

"Team Normalcy. Anwir opened the doors for them."

"How could you possibly know...?"

"I used a time flower. They're basically ancient magic surveillance cameras in a plant. I learned about them when I first met Lucario."

"You watched him do it."

"And then I watched a dude with a feathered hat decapitate someone, who was apparently great grandfather. Then the sword was turned on him, and dear old uncle was impaled on the fucking table!"

"Pikapi?"

"I hope you realize how crazy you sound right?" Amanda said, "How can he have been impaled on a table, when he just rose an army of skeletons to catch us?"

Ash didn't answer right away. Arceus he knew how psycho he sounded. If ten-year-old him was here, he would've been laughing at himself. However, in the past six years, if Ash had only learned one thing. It's that death wasn't as permanent as everyone thought. Especially when it came family. Sir Aaron, Lucario, Pikachu, his mom escaped from war, and of course himself with all his ventures into the great beyond. He had no idea if Amanda and Riley's side of the family had the same issue, but that didn't mean Anwir didn't have the not-immortal-enough-to-live-forever-but-have-enough-dumb-luck-not-to-die, genes.

And Ash knew that Anwir was the one to open those doors. Sure, the man he had met in the flesh, and the man in the memory looked different. Anwir's hair used to be the same bluish-black that everyone in the family seemed to have, and his skin while still pale, wasn't ashen. Not hollow shell of a body that his uncle now was.

"Yeah, Yeah I do," Ash said.

"I guess your at least smart enough to realize that Ketchum," Amanda said, begging to walk, "Come on we need to find the others."

"I'm not stupid you know," Ash deadpanned.

"Really? Couldn't have guessed," Amanda said.

"You know...." Ash huffed, "I really don't get you."

"No one ever does, so why are you trying?" Amanda said.

"Well, we're kinda family, and I would think we should at the least have each other's back?"

"Family? Ketchum, we're only related because two people who were born centuries ago were siblings. Distantly related is as close as we're ever going to be. Not to mention one of our uncles just tried to suck out our souls or some shit!"

"That doesn't mean we can't choose to be family. All my Pokémon, and my mom, they're my family. They were all I had for a long time. I know you had your brother, and maybe that's all you need, but wouldn't it be nice to have a big family? My Mom always dreamed of something like that."

Amanda rolled her eyes.

"What?"

"I hate that word."

"What word?"

"Dreams. It such a pointless concept."

"In what way?"

"Because, everyone says 'dream big' 'shoot for the stars' 'dreams come true' and it's all lies. No matter how hard you dream, it doesn't always work out. And that's even if you can have a dream."

"Dreams aren't lies, sure they don't always work out the way you want them too, but if you have a plan and work hard enough, they'll come true."

"Oh, Arceus you sound like one of the Pokémon leagues commercial! Those things are made for children! They're a chewed up and spit-polished view of the world. The truth is, that dreams are a privilege, not everyone can have them, and even fewer achieve them. Enjoy your dreams Ketchum, cause one day you'll have to wake up."

"You've really never had something that you've wanted to do, or have, or be?"

"Of course, when I was a child. Then I learned to be an adult, and I realized it was time-wasting to dream of something that can never be."

"What about going to school, and all that education you're getting? That's not working towards some goal."

"I'm required to have a doctorate."

"Required? Required for what-"

A thunderclap, a scream, and then there was a splash into the raging river next to them.

Amanda wasn't even sure what was happening. Instinct was kicking in. She didn't even remember dropping her bag or grabbing the fallen branch that was now in the grasp. Only that she was jumping in straight into the raging river.

The wrathful waves swallowed her whole. Their cold claws sinking into her skin, numbing her flesh. She took one last breath before her head was submerged, and then the cold and silence settled in. She breached the surface and began to kick forward. The quiet fury of the storm, churned the water with emotional strength, thrashing her body around, but Amanda was stronger. Her legs spasming in memorized movements, thrusting her body forward, cutting through the watery chaos.

Her glasses were wet, and hearing was flooded out (not that it would matter, drowning was usually a silent death), but she knew where the victim had fallen. It was instinctual. A knowledge that came with watching people tumbling towards what could have been their own wet graves over and over again.

She was close enough, and once more years of training made her limbs reach down in reflex. Amanda hooked her arms underneath the victim's armpits and pulled.

"Grab the log!" She felt her tongue speak, but the sound of her voice was lost to her.

The victim-Goh she had a name for this one-Goh complied with weak limbs. Loosely holding on to the broken branch with shaking arms. His torso spasmed with wet coughs, but he was breathing and still conscious. Active drowning. Stable. Get to shore.

She kicked her legs out, and began to push the both of them towards the first soft bank that she spotted. They were slower, more weight meant more drag. They were both gasping for breath when they arrived to shallow water. Amanda feeling the cold burned of chilled air in her lungs. She ditched the log once she could stand, and hooked Goh's arm around her shoulders. Without the buoyancy form the water supporting, and the adrenaline wearing off, she fell on to her knees into the sand of the bank. After laying Goh down in the recovery position, Amanda flopped on her back, eyes closed, and breathed.

She opened her eyes, and looked to the right seeing Ash, Uncle Aaron, Umbreon, and the others towards them. Their lips moving with words, but no voice, and footsteps silent.

She winced, closing her eyes, and reached towards her ears while her face flooded with hot shame.

Goh coughed a few times; the shore was rough digging into his shoulders and getting stuck to his wet clothing and skin. He opened his eyes, and looked at his savor. Amanda was laying on the sand, her hair wet and messy, clothes dripping, and make up running down her eyes and lips. He honestly, didn't think that she'd be the one to save him. No offense meant to her, but she was a stick. Thin and long limbs and torso (but clearly stronger than they looked).

Amanda gave a tired sound, that was the mix of a groan and a whimper. Her hand creeped up towards the side of her head. And pulled something out of her ear.

And in a brilliant moment of exhausting washing away any filer that Goh would usually have, he blurted, "You're deaf?"

Which in itself was a stupid thing to say, it was proved a fact when Amanda didn't react to him speaking. She only repeated the action on the other side of her head. In her palms now rested a pair of earing aids. Goh began to re-think a lot of the odd interaction he had with older trainer. Particularly ones where she seemed able to sleep through anything.

"Goh! Amanda!" Sir Aaron called running up to them, Ash and the other Pokémon trailing just behind the knight.

"Are you okay?" Ash said.

"Cold, tired, and I really want a warm bed, but yeah, we're fine," Goh said.

Amanda stood up from where had been on the sand, her eyes on the ground, not meeting anyone's gaze. Her fist holding the hearing aids, was clutching them tightly. She had grabbed her bag from Ash, and then began to walk away. Her arms crossed, held close to her body, protecting herself, holding herself together. Her steps made hesitant and whole body shaking. Her expression...like someone had just admitted to a felony.

"Amanda are you alright?" Sir Aaron said confused.

Goh swallowed. Amanda had always made sure no one could see her ears.

"Amanda?" Ash said.

"Ash?" Goh said, standing up, "She can't hear you."

Chapter Text

There was dirt up his snout again. Lucario sighed deeply, and allowed himself to sneeze and groan into the ground before getting up. He shook his head, ears twitching, ridding his head of the itchy grass blades that got tangled in his sensors upon landing. He was in a large gassy field, a large curving cobble stone wall, encasing the field. The field was over grown and wild after centuries of being un attended, long blades whipping around in the wind, and the wall had been ceased by strangling ivies and vines, turning the grey stone green.

It looked so different, but Lucario still recognized it. The nursey fields. This was where the young pups and their mothers would live until they were paired off to a guardian. He was one of the motherless pups when he was brought here, quiet and uninterested in meeting the other pups with packs. Despite being distant, he could still see them here. The young pups would be playing and wrestling amongst the grasses, the adults watching vigil near by in the shades of the trees.

But now it was empty, quiet, lifeless. An open tomb.

Vaguely Lucario wondered, with the Aura Guardians defeated. Where did the pups and mothers go? Some had lived there for generations. Lucario huffed sadly. They were long past now.

Besides there was another pup he needed to worry about. Ash’s pup had been with Lucario when they were separated from the rest of their group. The pup may be bound to Ash, but with him gone, Lucario was now responsible. If only he could find the pup.

Lucario sighed, and let out a sharp shrill bark. It was answered with a much higher chirp. And through the reeds towards the sound Lucario walked. It was a wonder that Lucario managed to find Riolu. The grass had grown up to about the middle of his stomach, so it would swallow a pup. But eventually, a dot of blue could be seen in the greenish gold of the reeds.

“Lu Ca (are you alright)” Lucario growled lightly.

Riolu nodded, making a gentle yipping noise.

“Lu Lu Car rio (come we much find the others),” Lucario took the pup’s paw into his own, so he didn’t lose him in the grass again.

“Rio ri (where are we)? Olu Rio ri (it feels funny here).”

“Lu Rio (the nursery).”

“Rio olu (why does it feel weird)?”

“Luc car lu (what does it feel like to you)?”

“olu, ri ri (Like it’s safe, but it too sad for us to be here).”

Lucario tried very hard not to react to that. He was feeling that safe sadness too.

“Lu Car ca Rio lu (that is the mark of your ancestors pup. It’s the message they left for use to find long ago).”

“ri olu ri (what are they telling us)?”

“Car lu lu ca (that this was once a safe place, but tragedy found itself here).”

The reeds thinned out, and eventually broke once they reached the bank of the ponds that were left on the ground. Though, now they were little more then a swamp. Thunder rumbled overhead, something told Lucario that they would need shelter soon. Riolu had broken away from him and began to wander the water’s edge. Typical curious pup. Why did it bother Lucario so much that the pup was wandering away from him?

Riolu continued to wander. Small paws getting muddier while walking along the wet banks. Lucario kept an eye trained on the pup as he tried to locate the others through aura sight. Then the sense of nearby danger spiked in Lucario’s mind and he turned to the startled shrill of a pup.

Leaping out the murky depths of the swamp, with a strike of white fire falling from the sky, came a horde of the new residents of the nursey grounds. Toxicroak. Several came from the water, all in a rage, all ready to hunt. Their long sticky with slime arms reached out at unexpected speed swiping that the pup with intent to harm.

Lucario was faster. He dashed forward, paws cutting into the mud as he scooped up the pup, and held the little one away from the predators. Usually Toxicroak preferred bug-types as prey, but a young pup who happened to wander into their territory wasn’t something that they would turn away. Especially a pup who wasn’t marked by a pack or mother.

“Car (stay),” Lucario growled, as he placed Riolu in the tall reeds.

Lucario turned a glare fix onto his advisory the leader of the horde. Weather blackened suddenly; the rain fell in harsh sheet and wind curled and swirled in the air like that of an Arbok strangling its latest kill. The jackal like Pokémon leaped forward, striking at the horde, cutting down as many with his spikes as came at him. They slipped away at his attacks, just as many times that Lucario made a wound in their soft skin. They tried to swarm him, their soft limbs proven just as strong as his, once their sticky hands managed to grip his legs.

Lucario was flung into the mud and pinned down tightly. He struggled, his legs gleaming with white light as he tried to kick them off of his body. But when one was thrown away another would quickly take its place. Lucario knew these tactics, pin down the prey or danger and then inject it with poison, leaving them to die. This was hostile, sometimes hunting, behavior. Lucario knew he was no prey, adults were too tough to hunt or even eat, not worth the effort to kill, pups however. Pups were softer.

There was cry across the swamp bank. A battle cry. Thankfully Riolu was no ordinary pup. Ash had done well teaching the little one to defend himself. Even after his hiding place amongst the reeds was discovered (or Riolu left it himself, Lucario really hoped that the pup wasn’t that reckless), the little one was holding his own. Vacuum Wave after vacuum wave the pup shoved their enemies back.

Lucario looked away for now. He needed to break out of the hold before he could do anything. Summoning an aura sphere was easy enough, but he’d need to be a little more creative with it. Harning his soul, Lucario pulled his energy into a concentrated point right in the middle of the many hands holding him down. The toxicroak were blasted away with a wave of bright blue light. Lucario scrambled to his paws, and called upon another energy to banished the rest of the swamp monsters away. From his body came the raging pulsing ray of dragon fire. A living rippling wraith of colorful plasma that struck down the bottom feeding toxicroak. In the end the ground, wettened with rain water, was littered with smoking bodies of freshly barbecued frogs.

Then came a cry of distress from across the swamp bank. Lucario was already running before he had turned to look. Two toxicroak had cornered Riolu, the numbers and exhaustion having taken their toll on the little one finally allowing them an opening to seize his small form.

Lucario wasn’t fast enough this time. One toxicroak held the pup down, while the other’s arm was lit with a vile violet glow and then struck Riolu. The Pup shrieked. And Lucario ran faster.

Aura Sphere was the safest move to pull as they never missed the intended target, and thank Arceus in his panic Lucario remembered that. Blue balls of energy bashed the poisonous frogs away from the pup, or at least disoriented them enough for Lucario to snatch the pup away from them and run. It was cowardly to run from a fight, but he wasn’t going to put Riolu in any more danger then necessary.

Once they were far enough from the swamp, Lucario slowed down and looked at the pup in his arms. Riolu’s muzzle was flushed with an ill shade of indigo, and the pup was warm in Lucario’s hold. Poison. Lucario held back a growl; he should’ve done worse to those toxicroak. The pup whimpered and began to squirm, little paws reaching towards the ground. Eventually break from where he was held and tried walking…only to stumbled to the ground after a few steps. Stubborn thing. Lucario shook his head and scooped up the pup, holding Riolu closer, not letting him walk on his own.

The pup needed medicine. Sadly, that wasn’t something that Lucario was well trained in. Petcha could be used to cure poison, he learned that from his time as a wild pup. Whether or not they were currently in season was something that Lucario didn’t know.

Thunder crashed overhead. The cold rain suddenly becoming noticeable. Icy droplets pelted down on them soaking through their fur and chilling their skin. The pup would need shelter before Lucario could look for any petcha. He started running, hoping that something from his ancestors left behind still remained. And thankfully it was…

Lucarios were known from many things as a species, but digging wasn’t one of them. It wasn’t a skill that was used that often, only really by the females when making a den to protect their young. Lucario remembered that on the other side of the nursey grounds was a shallow cliff side built of soft dirt and stone. The mothers would usually dig out dens there and care for the newly hatched pups inside.

The cliff was still there, but the dens were long destroyed. Lucario shifted Riolu on to his back and slowly dug out an okay den. It wasn’t as big as the ones the mothers had made, and those usually had soft grass floors for nesting. Being an outsider Lucario had rarely seen the inside of their dens, but sometimes he managed to sneak a peek. Still the dirt was soft, and more importantly dry, which was better then any of the now wet grass and leaves outside. He deposited the pup in the corner furthest from the den exit, growling at Riolu to stay there, before dashing out into the storm in search of petcha.

The ground was mud, the sky dark and the storm raged harsher by the time Lucario returned to his makeshift den, but his foraging was successful. Riolu was right where the adult had left the pup thankfully, and still conscious enough to eat. Lucario left the small pile of petcha he gathered by the pup, before take his post near the door. The toxicroak wouldn’t leave their swamp, but they knew little about what another Pokémon are out there. They needed to be ready for a fight at any….

There was a whimper from inside the den. Lucario abandoned his vigil with out a thought, creeping back into the den. The pup kept whimpering and reaching for him. Before Lucario knew it, he was curled up in the back of the den, a pup tucked into his side. He looked over Riolu, suddenly finding the sight of the pup curled up close, utter adorable, and how he liked the feeling of having a small thing dependent on him…

Curse his instincts for making him soft…and curse Ash for bonding to such a cute pup.

They’d look for the other once the storm passed…

Chapter Text

Sir Aaron sighed deeply, pinching the bridge of his nose. The head-ache that he had been nursing for the past few hours was slow fading, but the pill the Inn-keeper Joy had given him helped somewhat. But it wasn’t nearly enough to be comfortable. With a quiet growl, he rubbed his forehead, dissipating the throbbing pain with a few strokes to his own soul.

The herbal smell of the steaming tea in front of him, no longer stabbed at him, but instead was comforting. Taking a sip and a deep breath, the knight looked around the rather large inn room they were allow to occupy at the Pokemon center. There were four beds (two bunks), and a small couch and table on one side, the other being something the children called a kitchenette. The boys had taken to sleeping in the top bunks. Lucario and Riolu were curled up together in a mound of blankets on the sofa. And finally, Amanda rested in the bottom bunk.

The past 24 hours were probably on the high end of the most stressful time of his life list. Far too much was revealed, far too much was learned, and there was far too much to grieve to sleep that night. The Temple, the land of Arceus’s birth, the home of his chosen people, was nothing but a hallow grave now. That horrid fact was like chains entangling the knight’s mind, and he wanted nothing more then to struggle and break from them, but he couldn’t.

Because with the chains came the conviction. Sir Aaron was, and forever would be, the last survivor of the Guild. The only child of the old Guild, Arceus’ people, to live through the slaughter.

Well, not technically the last…But Anwir was more of a traitor then a brother now.

Sir Aaron sighed deeply. Anwir had been his youngest brother. Born of his father’s second wife. Just two years after Sir Aaron’s mother was declared barren. He could still hear his father’s words the day of the wedding.

“The house of Arlon is one that must continue on with strong aura gifted heirs. That can not happen with only one gifted son, and scorned wretch of a daughter. Pricella will give me those heirs.”

Mother had been devastated. Any affection that she was supposed to give to Sir Aaron’s father as wife, was lost the moment he made vows to another woman half her age. She focused solely on her children. And by children, it usually meant Emily. Their mother’s misery spread to her daughter, as she became more desperate to marry off Emily to a noble family, and hopefully bare aura children.

Sir Aaron knew that his mother had felt great shame after his father’s second marriage, and Emily was forced to pay the price with her own unborn children in a twisted way to prove that their mother was not rotten fruit. Still in the end, mother did get the last laugh in the end.

Anwir was born three years after the marriage, and his mother’s life ended as his began. Father got what he desired, another aura gifted son, but the cost was great.

Anwir the youngest child. Anwir his brother. Anwir the monster who used forbidden practices with a gleeful smile. On their own niece no less!

Where had it gone wrong? Anwir had always been a little bit of an outsider in the family. Mother had wanted nothing to do with him, but even Anwir himself understood why once he was old enough. Father was as interested as he had been in Sir Aaron as he was his youngest son. Sir Aaron tried to forged a bond with his brother but there was never much time. Emily had been the only one that ever truly love him in a way.

Yet, he still chose to torture their sister’s grandchild, whom shared her face.

What had happened? What could’ve possibly happened to his brother to turn him to such dark crafts? How did he even learn such a tainted trade? Sir Aaron only learned of the outlawed practice of soul puppeteering by rumor and even then, no one was allowed to ever read the tomes on it.

That headache was coming back will full force now.

Sir Aaron swallowed his tea, now growing cold. Questions of the past could not be answered, so to distract himself he turned to issues of the present.

His eyes immediately darted to the children. Specifically, Amanda. His niece was just like her great grandmother. Emily was prone to keeping secrets as well. Though clearly that trait had gotten far more powerful through the generations of Emily descendants, as where Sir Aaron could usually sniff out his sister’s treasures, Amanda had completely kept everything about herself under lock and key. Only the times that Sir Aaron genuinely learned something about her was when the girl would slip up and make a mistake. Which wasn’t often, and when it was, he found that the skeletons his niece kept were not happy ones.

Amanda was deaf. His niece lived in a world without noise, voices, and song. Or she would’ve if it wasn’t for the miracle of future healers, and who ever invented the hearing aid.

And he had no idea.

“She used to be a singer,” Goh had said, “Then she vanished. I guess we know why now.”

From all the little that Sir Aaron knew of Amanda, he knew she loved music. Far too many times had he’d seen her wear that odd had she had called, “headphones”. And while her face remained blank, her eyes sparkled a little when ever she put them on. Then she would bite her tongue before fully embracing the song.

Curiosity once driven the Knight to look up some of her performances on the laptop (a process he had to ask Ren to help him with), and he found himself questioning if this was the same girl as his niece. The girl in the videos was youthful but not in the terms of looking young. Youthful as in full of life. This girl’s eyes were always smiling, her expression passionate with joy, and her voice was so loud, so clear, so alive. His niece really had been gifted even before her aura began to burn.

The girl in front of him. Sleeping on the bed mere a few paces away from him. She looked ill. Like she had been fighting fever for far too many winters. Her face pale, cheeks hollow, eyes vacant. And her aura…Amanda was dying. It was simple as that. Something was killing her. Something that had been slowly eating her live.

When it was revealed, that she was deaf…Shame had rolled off her soul in waves. Fear and anger were also mixed in, but they were just small parts of the storm that was his niece. Hope made an appearance when Lucario found the group, calling out with telepathy. However, that hope was swiftly replaced with heartbreak, as telepathy couldn’t be heard, only felt. He had tried to find that book about mind sicknesses, but that would mean getting her laptop away from his niece and operating it properly. That was a task nearly impossible.

What had happened to Amanda?

What had happened to his brother?

Sadly though, answers and solutions were farther then ever.

Chapter Text

The realm around her was not the one of mortal green trees and plains blanketed underneath a pale blue sky. It was mixed shades of milky pink and white, and endless peaceful void that seemed to glow with a soft heartbeat. Swirls of white to gentle violet clouds somehow danced in the windless world of pure power.

Mew flew silently through this godly realm, between the fabrics of time and space. Her flite path one of directness, rather than her usual loopy distracted manner. The change in habit was not for a reason of solemn, but one of annoyance and anger. She knew what she was being summoned to the home realm for. Arceus no doubt wished to discuss her most recent actions regarding the humans. The summoning of all the legendaries was merely to form a crowd to add pressure to the talk.

Jokes, on them Mew did not regret her actions in the slightest.

Still that didn't mean she wasn't surprised by the turn out. The crowd forming a semi-circle around the alpha's throne was extensive.

Her older brothers, and their followers were present, sitting in the center. Dialga, and his celebi swarm. Palkia and his child Hoopa. Giratina and his generals of nightmares and dreams, Darkrai, and Cresselia. Their sisters the Lake Guardians, were huddled together nearby.

The legendries of the ocean, sky and earth rested on the far right. Kyogre, Rayquaza and Groudon. With them their legions of the Three Birds (Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltras) , and Three Cats (Raikou, Entei and Suicune). As well, as more personal Harolds, such as Lugia and Manaphy that Kyogre brought, and Latios and Latias at Rayquaza's side.

Next to the previously mentioned Trio, stood the Swords of Justice. All four of them standing proud...and way from the fellow legendaries on the other side of the crowds. Namely the dragons, Reshiram, Zekrom, and of course Kyurem.

The Regies had formed their own little group off to the side. Tornadus, Thundurus, and Landorus with them for some reason. Along with the Ultra Beasts, and the Tapus.

Xerneas and Zygarde stood on her elder brother's left. Their brother Yveltal was not next to them. Instead he hovered nearby, with Deoxys. Those smaller in size, such as Jirachi, and Victini, flitted around the crowd. Mingling with whomever.

Ho-oh wasn't present, but he wasn't one for meetings or crowds. He must have found another rainbow to chase.

Mew made herself vanished among the crowd of her siblings. Not hard for a mythical of her size. She seeked out her sister. One whom also knew what it was like to live on their own. Only having the humans for company and understanding. Mew smiled once she saw her. Meloetta.

"Mels?" Mew called out.

"Greetings Mew!" Meloetta said with joy, "I haven't seen you since the last summit."

"It has been far too long. Though, I wish it was on better circumstances."

"Yes, I hear you've been causing trouble."

"Do you blame me for it. You know what's at stake."

"No, I do not. But the others might."

"What they think of me does not bother me. My work and theirs tends to be at odds most of the time."

"And Alpha?"

"I've done nothing that he hasn't made me to."

And with that Arceus let out cry as he took his place at the head of the gathered crowd.

"My children," The Alpha's mighty voice echoed and boomed, "I have called you here to discuss matters of the mortal world. A large shift has been readying there, and yet one of you thought it would be best to intervene with fates work. Whomever it is step forward."

Mew shot a glance at Dialga. The Pokémon of time quickly looked away. Tattling on her? Not okay big brother. She floated forward, presenting herself in front of the crowd with confidence.

"It was me," Mew said.

"Do you know what chaos your transgression may cause, daughter?" Arceus said.

"Yes, I do and I do not regret them, Alpha."

"I told you to leave the matter be."

"And I decided that was a fool's order. You might believe that the humans are a lost cause, but I do not!"

"You know as well I as I what crimes they have committed, not only against me and the other children, but to themselves. They are not worthy of our intervention, if they are so willing to destroy themselves."

"Yet, such crimes had been committed generations ago! All of them are dead! Slaughtered! Their victims have justice! The humans now are innocent to their ancestors' actions! They can't be punished for them!"

"Why are you so insistent!?"

"Because you made me to protect them! Even from you!"

Silence echoed through out the heavenly realm. No one spoke. No one moved.

Mew swallowed the rage, and spoke once more, "I was born to watch over them. Alpha, you gave me the ability to change my form to watch over them with out being truly scene. You placed me in charge of the grounds with forever fertile land on which they could settle. I am merely doing my job. Do not fault me for going against your orders, when you ordered me to protect them!"

Mew sighed, and continued, "I know they have faults, unlike the others, but they are not evil in nature, and I'm not going to stand by and leave them to destroy themselves."

Arceus leered, "Then what would have me do?"

"Pay attention. You have not watched over them in years. Watch the events I have set in motion. Maybe you'll find some faith in them again."

"I concur!"

Mew turned a little surprised, having completely forgotten about the crowd in full view of htier argument.

Meloetta came forward. Floating tall at Mew's side, "Alpha, you tasked me with a similar role to Mew. To look for pureness amongst the human race. In some cases, there is little goodness with in their hearts, but others are overflowing with it. Allowing all to die, will harm more innocents than it will punish evil doers."

"I second!" Zygarde called out, "Balance can not exist in a world with out two sides."

Mew tired very hard to not to smirk, when one after the other her siblings came to her defense. Not all of them of course, there still were the ones who didn't care about the matter, or would benefit from the destruction. But man did it feel good to mouth off the big guy. The Alpha was a wise and ancient being, but even wise and ancient beings can be stupid from time to time.

Still, it was the Alpha's decision if Mew's plan would go forward or not...

The air was chilly. Autumn beginning to take hold after a long hot dry summer. Mewtwo watched the valley below from the top of the Tree of Beginning. His expression as relaxed as it possibly could. Sometimes he forgot how beautiful Mew's home could be.

There was a popping sound that was quickly followed, by a noise Mewtwo could only describe as the unrealistic twinkle that would happen every time a cartoon character would throw glitter. Speak of the devil and they will appear...

Mewtwo turned to mythical, whom he would never call sister, "What did the judge condemn you with?"

"Har har. Very funny," Mew replied, "but to answer your question, we actually got the go ahead to continue."

"Really?"

Mew let out a giggle, "Apparently, my defiance was moving. Some others actually spoke up this meeting."

"Are you saying that the Alpha, didn't disagree because he knew he couldn't stop all of you?"

"Please, he could stop all of us. We just annoyed him into letting us do as we please!"

"Not what any spoiled brat wouldn't do..."

"Oh hush. Now regarding our mission...?"

"The girl has been located and joined up with the others. Her brother is another story."

"You still haven't found him?"

"No, I've checked all the bases that I learned about from my enslavement to Giovonni, but most of them have been abandoned by now. If the brother is still alive in their custody, they are keeping him in an establishment I do not know of."

"Kyogre, Rayquaza and Groudon, have offered to search their domains for him."

"I would take them up on their offer if you haven't already. There is a new player in this game. One we need to worry about."

"What do you speak of?"

"Reach out your mind Mew, you'll find him. A human linked to powers darker than that of the Alpha. Don't ask me how, but he has a bone to pick with the rest of your dream team."

Mew closed her eyes, and with in a moment, she came out of the mental search with a gasp, "Anwir...He lives...?"

"Weird name I know."

"His name is the least of our worries!"

"So, you know him? Tell me is this another conflict that you were told to brush underneath the bush and regret."

"He's a regret, but not mine."

"Then tell me what we do about him."

"I-I am unsure. He was a bright boy, but horribly ambitious and bitter. If he had a goal in mind, he will stop at nothing to achieve it."

"Then we will stop him."

"You don't know what he's capable of."

"I'll find out."

Chapter Text

Ash had practically been bouncing up and down all throughout the flite.

After the nightmare that happened in Sinnoh, the young trainer was elated that their next research assignment was in Alola! When Ash heard that it felt like Arceus was finally giving him a break for once. He was being handed a vacation! Even if it was for work!

Alola held a special place in Ash's heart when compared to all the other regions he traveled, and it wasn't just because he had won his first league championship there. Alola had been a much-needed break from his previous travels. Especially after everything that happened in Kalos. The region was just much more laid back then the other places that Ash had visited.

Sure, that didn't mean there hadn't been any type of drama, but it was rather peaceful overall.

The islands were each distinct and beautiful. Each of them full of their own mini adventures...huh...in hindsight, Ash now had a reason as to why he didn't see Lucario or Sir Aaron in Tapu Fini's mist. That day, when he got lost in that fog, he kind of hoped it had been to reconnect with someone he had lost, but in the end, it was for torracat. Not that Ash was upset with that, his Pokémon deserved to get closure with her mentor. Still...some part of Ash had hoped to see someone...maybe meet a face he'd should've known but never got to.

Eh! Didn't matter now!

He had been so excited exiting off the plane, he tripped and fell down the stairs. Well, at least no one made fun of him for it. Professor Kukui was there to greet them and give them a ride. Ash gave him a giant hug. Sure, they'd face-timed each other at least once a month, but it was nothing compared to seeing each other in person.

Kukui seemed to hit it off with the others as well. Goh, after he had gotten over the awkwardness, he usually had with people of high praised in the Pokémon research communities, was quickly asking about all the local flora and fauna of Mele Mele. Sir Aaron was also enjoying the scenery, apparently this was one region that he had never been to even in his days of travel. And Lucario and Umbreon were trying to keep the smaller Pokémon from falling out of the car.

Amanda? Amanda had been weird lately. Ever since her deafness was revealed to the others her behavior towards them had shifted. While before she'd engaged in sarcastic banter, with one-liners that would make his ten-year-old self proud, jumping right into the thick of conversation with her own two-cents. Now, however, she fluttered around interactions. Hesitant to put anything into communication pool. Only speaking when spoken too. Like she was waiting for the other shoe to drop.

It was worrying.

However, all worries left Ash's mind once he reunited with his Alola team, and Professor Burnet. And of course, meeting, baby Lei. Ash had known about the baby since Professor Burnet first knew about it. She and Professor Kukui had called him the moment it had been confirmed and sent no less than a hundred pictures since Lei had been born.

Ash was currently bouncing the Baby watching as Riolu, Pikachu, and Pichu were socializing with his Alolan team. Sir Aaron and Kukui were talking in the Kitchen, Goh and Burnet were prepping a bag for something, and Ash and lost track of where Amanda went, but with Pichu still there she hadn't gone far.

"So, the class at the school has planned a welcome back party for you," Burnet said.

"Really?" Ash said.

"Yes, but it's not supposed to start for a few hours," Burnet said, walking up and taking Lei into her arms, "So you boys can hang out on the beach until then."

"I can get some documentation done!" Goh said with excitement.

"If you're going to go, I suggest you get moving," Kukui said, "I doubt you'll have much chance to do this again soon."

"I'm afraid the professor is correct, go on and frolic lads," Sir Aaron leaned over to Lucario, "Make sure they don't die."

Ash and Goh were running to the door when the sound of the bathroom opening caught the attention and Goh let out a startled yelp. Emerging from the threshold of the bathroom, was what Ash thought was his cousin. It was honestly hard to tell. The girl was the right height and build, but she wasn't dressed like Ash knew Amanda's style was. The navy-blue competition suit, and flip-flops revealed more of her body than ash had ever seen before. She wore a very large black sun hat and a pair of what had to be prescription sunglasses. It was just how pale she was that threw Ash off.

It took a moment for him to realize that she wasn't sick or anything, she was white from how much sunscreen she was wearing. It was like someone had dipped her into a jar of mayonnaise, and then stuck clothes on her.

"What happened to you?" Goh asked.

"I put on appropriate clothing?" Amanda said.

"Did you use a whole bottle of sunscreen?" Ash blurted.

"You might tan in this weather Ketchum, but I burn."

Lucario stood at his post on the small hill next to the sand dunes. His eyes, ears, and other senses were on full alert. Protection was a familiar duty. He had done this many times. Nobles, wealth, villages, and homes he had done it all. A few children didn't make him worry. His skills were well enough to protect them.

But the pup. Curse his instincts. The little one was making his nerves fray and spasm. He wasn't even Lucario's pup! But for some reason, ever since the night in the makeshift den, he was suddenly hyper aware of the little one's movements.

Riolu wasn't even in danger! The pup was merely playing on one side of the beach. Near some toys for human pups, that someone had left. It was just little red plastic shovel...that was attached to a very large aura underneath the sand...that had a very large mouth...

Lucario darted over, scruffing up the pup.

Alright, maybe he needed to move the pup to a safer part of the beach...

"So, you've never been to Alola before?" Professor Kukui asked.

"No," Sir Aaron shook his head, and taking a sip of some kind of drink that was both sweet and sour at the same time, "I was well traveled in my youth but islands such as these, were usually out of reach."

"Couldn't afford plane fair?" Kukui asked.

"Something like that," Sir Aaron chuckled.

The knight was quickly finding a friend in the Professor. Kukui was a kind young many who seemed to share in Sir Aaron's values of family and adventure. He was glad that Ash had such a person to care for him during his stay on this island paradise. It felt like a shame that the knight couldn't be completely honest with the professor yet. Once day when it wouldn't mean putting Kukui in danger, he would know the full truth, but not now.

"Well, you won't be disappointed in visiting I promise you that," Kukui said, "I know that the islands can be small and under-developed when compared to a modern city on the mainland, but we have our own charm."

"I could tell that the moment we got off the plane. I do enjoy the quaintness of this place. A simple peace, it reminds me of where I was born."

"Where's that if you don't mind me asking. I mean I know you're kantoian, with your accent, but isn't different then Ash's."

"That is a simple query with a complex answer. Originally, I was born on northeast coast of Kanto, but I was sent to what you could call a boarding school further inland and closer to Sinnoh. After spending most of my youth there, I traveled around the nearby areas and towards home. Eventually I settled in Rota once I had employment there."

"Rota? I think I heard about that place, one of the oldest cites in Kanto right? Big renaissance theme?"

"I could not tell you; I haven't been home in a while. A social conflict forced me to leave."

"Oh, Geez, I'm sorry to hear that. You, okay?"

"Do not concern yourself with it, it was hard, but I'm working through it."

Kukui nodded, "So how did you meet Ash again? I know your family, because he called here all excited about it, but never got clear story."

"Well, I didn't know about him until he came forward. Apparently, I'm related to his late father. But I hadn't had much contact with my relatives in years. Me and my sister had been close, but she passed away suddenly while I was on the move, and no one told me. So, learning about Ash was a welcomed surprise."

"And Amanda she's your...?"

"Niece, she's more closely related to my late sister."

"So, you were just living on your own, until Ash reached out?"

"Now, I had Lucario so I wasn't alone, but in a way I was without family. In some ways that was a good thing, my father and I didn't really agree over many topics."

"Oh, old man was a hard-case huh?"

"You could say that." Note to self, ask the children what a 'hardcase' is and if it's similar to a 'nutcase'. "He had what you could call very sets ideals on what roles me and my sister should've fulfilled."

"Traditionalist?"

"Extremely."

"Well, I don't envy you then."

"You shouldn't, but I am finding myself enjoying the company of the younger generation of my family."

Kukui huffed in humor, "Yeah, I'm sure those kids are giving you a run for your money. Ash was great when he was living here, but man did that kid give me a fright every now and again."

"Well, the thing about Ash is that...it would be rather hypocritical for me to reprimand his recklessness."

"No, are you saying you were a troublemaker as a kid?"

"Well, I certainly wasn't an angel."

"Worst thing you did?"

"Well, there may have been and incident involving me getting carried away by a beedrill after I ran off a cliff."

Kukui started laughing.

Amanda didn't like sunlight.

She had many reasons for this opinion. One, her skin was, on a good day, just a shade darker than egg-shell white, and would burn and freckle faster than a vampire would shrivel in the light. Two, her eyes had always been rather sensitive to it. Even before they started dying, she had always been squinting any time she was in direct sunlight. Three and currently the most annoying reason was that it screwed with her laptop. Be it by overheating the device or making it impossible to read what was on screen.

Honestly, why was she even out here? She needed to work to find Riley. Not sitting back with a drink in her hand on a tropical beach. Amanda groaned, pushing up her sunglasses and rubbed the bridge of her nose. The soft roar of the waves smashing on to the shore in front of her drawing her attention.

It had been forever since she had been on a beach. The warm sand. The burning sun. The waves swelling and singing. The swirling breeze...she missed it. Amanda could admit that, but she couldn't let her longing get in the way of progress. No one achieved anything while slacking.

Screams and chirps of joy came from Pichu and Roserade playing in the waves just a few yards away. At least, someone could enjoy it.

"Hey."

Amanda tried very hard not to jump at the sudden voice. She turned to find one Professor Burnet standing behind her. The baby held securely on her hip.

"Professor," Amanda greeted plainly.

"Having fun?" Burnet said sitting down next to the 18-year-old.

"It be more fun if I actually made some progress."

"Oh, still working? I thought you'd be taking a break from lab work now that you're here?"

"Well, the others might, but I can't afford it."

"If you need more time, I'm sure Professor Cerise will understand. Discovery takes time."

"It's not Cerise I'm working for."

"Well then you might need to find a new employer if they're pushing you this hard."

Amanda didn't answer.

"Ash said you stared in Mele Mele Mermaids..." Brunet brought up.

Amanda tried not to groan. Really Ketchum? You had to mention that?

"Look," Amanda said, "That was a long time ago and I know it was mistake..."

"Why would it be a mistake?" Burnet asked.

Amanda paused, a little surprised that the Professor would ask that. Certainly, she understood why it was something to forget, but no Burnet just kept looking at her for an answer.

"Because it was a waste of time," Amanda finally said, "I could've been studying or working on something with actual meaning instead of that stupid show for little kids."

"Did you not have fun working on it? You seemed like you enjoyed being Mimmi on screen."

"No...I-I did enjoy it, but it wasn't worth it. It's not going to help people."

"That's not true. I know for a fact that there are people who love that show and find it comforting. That's helping them."

"Then they have terrible taste."

"Maybe, but that doesn't mean the show is worthless or the passion you put into it went to waste."

Amanda paused. She had never thought about it that way. Mother always said it had been a waste of time, and Amanda had been too young and stupid to realize how right mother was. That show wouldn't save lives from disaster or disease. It wouldn't make the world a better place. But...did it really make people feel better?

Amanda didn't get to ponder long as one of the boys came running back to them yelling something about a cliff.

Chapter Text

Well, this wasn't how Lucario thought today would go, but then again with Ash it shouldn't be surprising someone would fall off a cliff. The jackal Pokémon just didn't think it would be Goh. Out of the two lads he was by far the most cautious, then again recklessness was contagious. Hence forth the reason why he went along with his master's descendant to ensure that the lad didn't fall off another cliff.

The fact that the pup had begged top go along had nothing to do with Lucario's decision.

"Goh!" Ash called out.

"Pika!!!"

"OLU!!!"

"Now where did he run off too?" Ash said.

Lucario scanned the island with a skim of aura sight. Goh's pale ghost was visible, and calm if a little shellshocked.

He's alright, near the human settlement.

"Guess we're going that way then," Ash murmured and changed direction.

Are you certain that is the correct direction? From what I saw the Village is in another spot.

"But the school is this way! If Goh's made it back into town. Then he's probably met one of my old classmates by now and they would take him to the school. Besides I got lost in these jungles a lot. I know them like the back of my hand by now," Ash said.

Well, that was comforting. Still Lucario followed the lad through the trees and on the dirt path.

"ASH! PIKACHU!"

Lucario didn't have a moment to even turn around, and Ash was running off to hug a flying shiny red...something....

"Hello Ash!"

"Rotom!" The lad called out.

"I missed you so much!" the red shape said.

"I missed you too."

"How have you been doing?"

"Pika!"

"Awesome!"

Ash's phone then made the pinning noise and started talking like it did when it scanned something. So, this red shape was a Rotom? Lucario tilted his head. Clearly one of the more modern-day forms he wasn't familiar with...then again, all forms of this species were foreign to Lucario.

"Everyone is already at the Pokémon school," Rotom said.

"Oh, that's great! We were just heading in that direction," Ash said.

Then the little flying red thing homed in on him and the pup. Lucario pulled Riolu behind him.

"Ohhh!!!" the red thing beeped and began to fly around them franticly taking pictures.

Lucario resisted the urge to swat the annoyingly alive pokedex out of the air.

"More data! Lucario's much less the pre-evolved forms are not native to the alola isles! I can update my data base!!!!"

The pup let out a squeak and shoved his face into Lucario's leg. Alright...

Ash is this a former companion of yours?

Rotom froze.

"Yeah, Rotomdex served as my guide to all the Pokémon of alola while I was living here."

"Pika!"

Then perhaps you can tell him to mind personal space before he learns to regret it.

"Got it," Ash said, pulling the flying red nuisance away.

"You can speak!!!!!" Rotomdex shrieked, "I need to update my data files! Please explain to me in detail about this skill of yours!"

"Rotom," Ash said, "You should probably slow down, believe me Lucario is not the kind of guy you want to bombard with questions."

You should trust him, you speck, the last time Ash confronted me I threw him into a hot spring. Something tells me you wouldn't last as long should that happen again.

"See what I mean..."

Amanda felt overwhelmed, and she wasn't even the center of attention.

When the professors brought her and her uncle over to the school, her cousin's former classmates had already swarmed poor Goh. She could feel the amount of anxiety bleeding from Goh and it made her feel like she was re-lived the first day of college all over again. Curse her newly discovered empathic powers from her auratic rich soul. She didn't have time for her own feelings, much less other people's.

Still. These kids needed to back off. Like Goh can't even get an answer in.

Amanda felt something brushing against her leg. She looked down to find Umbreon nudging her head into Amanda's leg. The dark type nodded towards the crowd. Amanda sighed; she knew the only to stop feeling like this was to stop the person who she was reading feeling it. Besides Uncle Aaron was too busy with a conversation he was having with the profs. and really bizarre principle, to do anything.

"Okay, maybe you all should let him breathe," Amanda called out, "Not everyone enjoys the swarming-like-an-army-of-beedrill-on-a-honey-high greeting."

The two girls backed off, rather quickly each offering apologies, with the boy following their lead. Goh sent her a grateful smile. Amanda wasn't sure if the relief she felt was her's or Goh's.

Kiawe was another story. The teenager was passionate, and Amanda found his frustration very misplaced. The spike of confused anger that Amanda picked up was enough to make her wince. And she would forever blame what happened next on it.

"Hey, maybe battling isn't something Goh enjoys as much as you!" Amanda snipped.

And now that anger was pointed at her. Dang this guy was more hotheaded than rapidash.

"And who are you?" Kiawe asked.

"Amanda Gen. Hi I'm Ash's cousin," She gave a cheeky grin.

Kiawe narrowed his eyes. Thinking really hard there, aren't you buddy.

"Ash's cousin huh? Then I challenge you next!"

Amanda raised a flatly confused brow, "I'm sorry what?"

"As Ash's family and current rival, it's my job to ensure that you both are strong enough to challenge Ash so he can achieve his goals!"

Goh looked confused; Amanda didn't even have to read him. There was so much wrong with that sentence...Thank Arceus that Ash walked into the room after that.

With the children wonderfully, distracted with each other, Amanda tuned back out of the situation and into her work once more. She bit her tongue to keep from releasing a breath of worry. She was running out of code to decrypt...and still didn't have any idea one where Riley was. There was still hope that Clemont found something on his end, but Amanda was a cynic at heart.

Someone cleared their throat above the desk she was sat working at, and she froze. Glancing up she saw he uncle looked down on her with a plate of in hand.

She took the plate offered to her and thanked him. Amanda might not feel close to him, but she knew when manners were needed.

"How are you fairing?" Uncle Aaron said.

"This place is hot, sunny, and the people here have no context of personal space or air conditioning," She mumbled.

"So, not well then?"

Amanda shrugged.

"You've found anything else?"

"No."

She heard her uncle sigh...then choke and cough.

"Are you dying?" She looked up at him.

"The food is delicious but it's a lot stronger them I'm used to in terms of flavor," he smiled.

Curious, Amanda took a bite off her own plate. It was good. She could admit that.

"Couldn't use more spice, but not bad," she said and she felt almost gleeful at the horror her Uncle was experiencing from that statement.

The party continues calmly, until...

"Hey kiawe let's have that battle we promised each other!' Ash said.

"Sure, but first I want to battle Goh and Amanda," Kiawe said.

"Excuse me?" Amanda said.

"Who me?" Goh said.

"I'm the only one who can determine if your two are good enough to be along Ash as rivals! To help him on his quest you have to be strong!"

"Kiawe what are you talking about?" Ash said.

"Don't you think you're getting worked up," the girl with green hair said.

They were both ignored.

"Goh, Amanda let's do this!" Kiawe said.

"Alright," Goh said.

"Goh?" Ash questioned.

"He called me out, I might as well. I've got a stubborn streak too."

Okay, maybe this kid had more guts than Amanda thought.

"Amanda?" Goh turned to her.

"Pass."

"What?!" Kiawe said.

"I said pass. I don't want to battle you, nor do I have too. It's not going to mean anything anyway. I'm not Ash's rival, we're barely family as it is. And once all this is over, we're never going to see each other again. It's not my job to 'aid him on his quest' whatever the heck that means," Amanda said.

"Battling is the way trainers and Pokémon prove how strong they are together! Don't you want to show your strength with your Pokémon?" Kiawe said.

"Battling is A way, not THE way. Besides, I have nothing to prove to you," Amanda stated.

"You should just stop Kiawe," Goh cut in before Kiawe could further blow up, "She's from Ryme City. You're not going to convince her."

"So? What does it matter where she's from?"

The boy with blond hair spoke up, "Pokémon Battles are outlawed in Ryme City, Kiawe."

"What? Why?"

Everyone looked to Amanda, she just stared back blankly, "I'm not part of its government, don't ask me why."

Amanda shut out the rest of the convo. Kiawe was starting to get on her nerves...at least she got to watch Goh yell him out during the bloody battle. Uncle Aaron's and Lucario panicked expressions after the Z-move were also very entertaining...She snapped a picture.

Chapter Text

"Are you sure? Absolutely sure?" Amanda said.

"I'm sorry, Amanda but there wasn't anything in the data copy you gave me. Nothing on your brother's location at least." Clemont said through the video call.

Amanda resisted throwing her laptop across the room. The action would do nothing but break the only reason she was able to complete her degree and have the chance at finding her idiot brother. And it would take months to make enough allowance to be able to get a cheaper replacement. The urge was still tempting though.

"So, we're back at square one?" Ash asked.

"Well, technically...yes. We just don't have anything else to comp through."

"Don't despair," Uncle Aaron cut in, "Will find him another way."

"Apologize for my bluntness, Uncle, but what other way? Your aura seek thing will only work at close range now, due to the population increase," Amanda let out a sigh, "What a complete waste of time."

"Well, I wouldn't say complete waste of time. I did find out about a bunch of Team Rocket operations in Kalos. I tipped off law enforcement. I hope you don't mind."

"I don't care, let these motherfuckers burn," Amanda said, moving to cut the call.

"Wait," Goh said, "Did you say you found other operations run by Team Rocket?"

"Yeah, why?"

"Well wouldn't those operations also have information stores of their own?" Goh said.

"Information stores that might have something on Riley!" Ash said.

"It's possible," Amanda said, "Which one to do we strike though?"

"Well, I'd hate to say this, but all the ones in kalos are off the table. Unless you want to have a run with the police that is."

"Yeah nope, can't have anything on my record," Amanda said, "The one we pick will also need to have available building specs I can download."

"Wait, are you seriously considering breaking and entering again?" Goh said.

"No offence, Goh, but modern problems require modern solutions," Amanda said.

Ash nodded.

"You're agreeing with her?" Goh said.

"Goh, I've done a lot of weird and morally questionable shit," Ash said, "Breaking and entering is just another Saturday. And I don't even need to dress in drag for this."

Goh let out a groan.

"How about this one," Clemont said drawing everyone's attention back to the screen, "The building specs are available and from the looks of it, the main computer terminal is on the top floor not a basement."

Amanda opened the file that was sent to her. The specs were clean, and up to date till last year at best. It looked like a shut down school's sports hall. She hummed. The most she's having to deal with would most likely be some security cameras she'd hack and locked doors that she could pick.

"It's got promise. Where is this exactly?" Amanda said.

"Nimbasa City."

"Unova. What are they doing there?" Ash said.

"According to what I found it's the..."

"...Playground Pokémon Tournament! Compete with friends, Rise in Ranks, and Show off your best battle tactics," Goh read off the sign in front of them, "It's a battle competition."

Why would Team Rocket host an event such as this?

"To scope out which of the local trainers have the best catch," Amanda said.

"Then steal them for themselves," Ash growled.

"Well, this makes my job a lot easier," Amanda said.

"How so?" Sir Aaron asked.

"Usually, I would need to come up an excuse for being in a place I'm clearly not supposed to be, but this just gives me one. We enter the competition, I sneak to the main terminal between goes, and if I get caught, I can play dumb little trainer girl got lost on the way to the bathroom," Amanda said.

"So, all four of us enter?" Sir Aaron said.

"Three, Sorry uncle, but you don't have the minimum three Pokémon required, to compete, much less a legit trainer's license...or social number...or even a birth certificate. I have a lot of government papers to fake for you, don't I?" Amanda said.

Then Goh registered her first have of the sentence, "Wait, three? You're going to compete?"

"Yes? It's the logical choice, the more people we have in the competition the longer we'll last in it, the more time I have to hack," Amanda said.

"You're going to compete, in a battle competition?" Goh said again.

"Come on, Goh, I'm excited to see Amanda fight, what's the big deal?" Ash said.

"Ash did you forget she's from Ryme City?"

"I'm not stupid Goh, after what you said in Alola, I look the place up," Ash said.

"Then how do she'd know anything about Pokémon battles?" Goh said.

Amanda snorted, "like you're one to judge Goh, you've had your trainers license for not even a year, and how many tournaments have you been in?"

"I might not have been in many tournaments, but I've been watching them both in person and on tv since I was a little kid," Goh said, "You've probably never even seen a battle in person."

Amanda shrugged, with a smirk on her face, "If that's what you think."

She walked away, heading towards the reception desk inside the building.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Goh said, "Amanda! What's that supposed to mean!"

Chapter Text

"You know you don't have to follow me," Amanda whispered.

We are currently in the thrones of enemy territory. Sir Aaron's insistence on me accompanying you is a wise decision.

"You know this isn't the first Rocket Base I've sneaked around, right?" Amanda said, "And I have my own Pokémon to protect me?"

All of which are currently trapped in those torture devices you carry them in. And if some were to go wrong when you summon them, your life would be lost.

Amanda rolled her eyes, "Can you at least be quiet while do this? Don't really want to attract any unnecessary attention."

I am speaking to you in a closed link, no one else may overhear do not concern yourself.

"Yeah, that doesn't make me feel better. Because while you might be in a closed link. I am not and to other people I'm talking to air like a crazy person."

Understood.

Amanda resisted the urge to sigh, honestly, it wasn't like she couldn't defend herself. She's trained in martial arts and could easily take down some rocket grunts. It also wasn't like she and Uncle Aaron were all that close. Why was he being so protective? There was no reason that he should want Lucario to be with her.

She bit the inside of her cheek, taking a deep breath. Looking stressed out would only bring more suspicion to herself.

Schooling a blank expression, she blended back into the crowd. A hand on her bag strap with the other in her pocket. She had kept her makeup on a more neutral color palette, her usual goth esthetic would draw more attention. And had swapped out her glasses for colored contacts, turning her eyes purple. With a beanie to hide her hair, and off the shoulder sweater, she looked like a different person. Just another young trainer in a crowd of fellow competitors.

Amanda had lucked out, in tournament of 24 trainers, her round one match up was number 12. It should give her some time to at least figure out the best way to access the main frame. She had already had Pichu sneak in and set the camera in the terminal room on a loop. So, security wouldn't pay much attention to it. Or at least think nothing is happening in there.

"All patrons, please proceed to the stadium the tournament is about to begin!"

"That's our que," Amanda whispered.

She had positioned herself near the entrance, that way she could follow the crowd as they journeyed deeper into the building, before slipping not into the arena, but rather the less popular stairwell near the bathroom to the second floor.

The crowds up there were thinner, but that just meant she needed to be more wary of the cameras. At least, that was what she would usually do. Now Amanda had a stow away. She signaled Lucario, gesturing towards the cameras with her eyes when he looked at her.

"Stay out of their line of sight, but don't draw attention to yourself," she murmured. Lucario nodded.

As they continued through the halls, the crowds thinned further. The tiles on the floor started to get more smudged, and the paint on the walls had more chips. Eventually, they came to a spot where the lights were flickering, and the space was empty. The door to the terminal room was unassuming. Unassuming and locked. Good thing she brought a pic-kit with her.

You know how to pick locks?

"Yep, why is that so shocking?" Amanda said.

From my understanding you are from a noble class, wouldn't such skills, not be encouraged that you learn?

"I've done worst then this and you know that."

I am aware, but I have been curious.

"About what?"

You. Mostly. You are unlike Master, or Ash. Despite being family.

"Family doesn't mean you're like everyone you share blood with."

A truth. However, you are intriguing.

Amanda huffed, "In what way?"

You are stubborn and capable. Much like Sir Aaron and Ash, yet you do not trust people. You look at someone, and see a possible enemy, not an ally.

She couldn't disagree, "So what if I do?"

I see it the same, sometimes. I see that people can cause harm rather than aid. It became worse when the trust I put in others appeared to have been broken.

"Really?" Amanda said without even caring.

I suppose my query is...who broke your trust?

Amanda bit her lip, holding her tongue from answering.

The lock opened with a soft click.

Goh looked out over the arena. The battlefield was on the smaller side, with only one floor of basic metal bleachers. It was a cheap tournament, but it was run by team Rocket so...

"Decent turn out?" Sir Aaron said.

"Given the circumstances...that not half the people here know about," Goh said.

"Ignorance is bliss."

"In this case that's very much true."

Goh sighed, already bored of waiting for the competition to start. He honestly felt kind of useless. Amanda and Ash were really the ones pulling this operation forward. Amanda with her hacking skills and Ash with his battling. Sure, Goh was also on distraction duty with Ash as a competitor, but he knew he wasn't making it past the first round. He just wasn't a good battler; it wasn't his goal. And he knew that most people were okay with that. Still didn't make his upcoming defeat any less embarrassing.

He looked to the ground finding Raboot stretching. At least she was excited. Then he looked up and found the people manning the snack standing, staring at him. The blue haired man, and pink haired woman quickly turned around once he caught them. Weird.

The thrill of walking out into the arena made his body buzz with excitement. Itch with anticipation. The bright lights and cheering crowd, stealing his breath, and making his heart stop. Ash loved it.

"Please welcome our first competitors to the battlefield! Ash Ketchem from Pallet Town, and Jace of Mauville City!"

Ash watched his opponent as they both took their places on opposite sides of the field. The trainer was a young man, maybe a few years Ash's senor, closer to Amanda's age. Jace was thin, with dirty blond hair and green eyes. His clothes were comprised of thin white muscle shirt and camo military cargo pants. Kinda of like a younger Lt. Surge.

The rotom-drone zipped around the field before settling in the middle. Ready to start the match.

"This is an official Pokémon league battle. The terms are three Pokémon per trainer. Substitutions are allowed. A Pokémon will be deemed unfit to battle on account of fainting. No lethal measures are allowed. Trainers select your first Pokémon."

Jace was quick to enter. Throwing a pokeball and out popped a Swampert. Most likely his starter given he was from Hoenn. Ash could tell it was well cared for. The Pokémon was strong and healthy. This was going to be fun.

"Riolu?" Ash asked the Pokémon standing next to him.

He didn't have to elaborate, the pup pokemon leaped forward, enthusiastically taking his place on the battlefield.

"Ready? Battle Begin!"

"Let's start this battle fighting!" Ash screamed, "Vacuum Wave!"

"Protect!"

The small blast from Riolu was quickly blocked by a simple movement from Swampert. The pale blue glow halted by a bright shield. Riolu flipped back waiting for the next command in a battle-ready stance.

Ash quickly mulled over this action. Jace was being cautious. He knew that he could block any attack Ash threw at him. Leading to him learn Riolu's entire move set. It was a good strategy. All he needed was Ash to attack.

Well, two can play that game.

"Double team!" Ash ordered. Can't use protect against a defensive move.

Riolu dashed around the arena, false clones of himself appearing around him and...Ash knew which one was real? Oh, that was new. Must be from the aura training, as none of the clones had souls. He could tell that now.

Ash saw Jace smirk.

"Earthquake."

The ground surrounding the field shook and split. Riolu screamed, as he was thrown back by the attack. Ash gritted his teeth, wincing at his Pokémon's shriek. Okay, earthquake that's something he had to look out for. But how to counter it? Wait.

"You oaky Riolu?" Ash called.

Riolu jumped back on to his paws, shaking the dust off ready to fight again.

"Good! Use double team again!!"

Riolu jumped back into the fray. Clones filled the battlefield once again.

"Earthquake-"

"Vacume Wave the floor!"

"What?"

Riolu, flipped off the ground. And blasted a vacuum wave into the breaking ground. The earthquake attack completely missing him. It flung the little aura Pokémon up high. Almost on top of the Swampert. The double team wore off, leaving just Riolu in the air.

"Ice Punch!" Jace ordered.

The Swampert's fist began to gleam....

"Reversal!" Ash screamed.

The ice punch landed, but Riolu's hit was tenfold on the Swampert. Throwing the water/ground type into the dirt. Wounded by the phantoms of their own attacks. Riolu landed a few feet away.

"What a move! Dodging using an attack and then take advantage of the opponents attack to damage them! This battle is heating up folks!"

"Airtight! keep it up! Use Force Palm!" Ash yelled.

"Waterfall!"

Water began to flood the arena. Washing Riolu away, before the hit could land. The water faded leaving everything soaked. Riolu shook off, standing back up. Stubborn as ever. Ash could tell he was hurting. They had to end this quickly. Un close and personal

"Vacuum Wave yourself at them!"

Riolu leaped forward at blinding speed. The glow of vacuum wave propelled him forward.

"Water-"

"Reversal!"

Both attacks, clashed a mass explosion. A steam plume filled the field. The shock wave made Ash's hair ripple.

"Riolu and Swampert are both unable to battle! Choose your next Pokémon!"

Ash recalled Riolu back into his pokeball, "You did great buddy. Take a good rest."

Ash hummed, taking another pokeball off his belt and throwing it into the ring, "Gengar I choose you!"

"Ghost type huh?" Jace called out, "Breloom I choose you!"

There was a flash from the pokeball being released and the Grass type came onto the battlefield with an excited cry. Igniting the crowds with a fresh wave of applause.

"Battle Begin!"

"We'll start this time, Bullet Seed!" Jace said.

Bright green glowing seeds rained down on the field. Gengar getting hit with small explosions dotting his form, before Ash had time to order a dodge. Gengar was thrown back but recovered by floating before he hit the ground.

"You okay?" Ash said.

"Gen!"

"Good Shadow Ball!"

Gengar jumped up, spinning on his head as he released several Dark spheres that tumbled around the battlefield. Hurling through the air with such speed the crowd could barely make out their shape.

"Dodge!" Jace called out.

To the Breloom's credit, they did manage to avoid a few of the hits, however once one hit the rest came crashing down on to the Pokémon.

"Shake it off!" Jace said, "Bullet seed!"

"Dodge it!"

Gengar zipped across the battle fields narrowly dodging in between every single one the seeds. All while making teasing faces at their opponent. Classic Gengar.

"Annoying Spector," Jace said, "Trap them! Rock tomb!"

Large heavy stones materialized around Gengar. Pinning the ghost type in, like the move's name described a tomb.

"Bullet seed!"

Nothing was stopping that attack from landing.

"Whoa, Breloom's Rock tomb had Gengar pinned! They can't move! What will Ash do now!"

Breloom kept creeping closer, firing bullet seed after bullet seed. Gengar continued to struggle again the tomb, but the rocks only became heavier and heavier. Crushing the ghost type. Ash needed to move and move fast. Gengar wouldn't last forever.

"Dazzling Gleam!" Ash yelled before he could think.

Gengar let out a screech as he began to glow. The Blast from the dazzling gleam exploded! Destroying the rock tomb and hitting Breloom who had been far too close. It threw the opponent Pokémon back, sending them tumbling across the battle field.

"What a genius move! Dazzling Gleam has freed Gengar from the clutches of the rock tomb!"

The crowd cheered.

"Now time for our finish!" Ash said, "Will-o-Wisp!"

Flames crossed the battlefield, striking Breloom in a blaze. The grass/fighting type fell to the dirt of the battlefield floor. The burns, enough to take the dazed Pokémon down.

"Breloom is unable to battle! Gengar is the winner!"

An Arcanine is sent out as their final opponent. The monstrous fire dog's fangs gnashed and burned with fresh flames as they growled.

"You good Gengar?" Ash said.

"Gen!"

"Battle begin!"

"Shadow Ball!" Ash screamed

"Not this time!" Jace said, "WiId charge!"

Gengar released another barrage of dark spheres, that spun and tumbled in the air, but none of them hit. Each one of them was destroyed by the giant storm of electricity that radiated across the field. The lights over head getting hit and shattering. For several minutes the entire indoor battlefield was pitch black.

Fortunately, the emergency lights kicked in.

Unfortunately...

"Gengar is unable to battle! Arcanine is the winner!"

Ash recalled Gengar, "You did great buddy," He looked at Pikachu, "Ready!"

"PIKACHUPI!"

Pikachu leaped on to the Battlefield.

"Battle begin"

"Start this off with Quick attack!" Ash said.

Pikachu zipped around the field.

"Extreme Speed!"

The Arcanine dashed off faster. Ramming into Pikachu at full blast. Knocking the mouse Pokémon off his paws.

"Quick catch your self with Iron Tail!" Ash said.

Pikachu's tail gleamed metallically, and he dug it into the dirt arena floor.

"Head smash!"

"Jump and use Electro web!"

Pikachu flung himself up, launching a sparkling web down on the Arcanine, pinning the dog-like Pokémon to the arena floor. The fire type laid there struggling again the shocking fibers of the makeshift net.

"A brilliant use of electro web!"

"We won't be put down that easy!" Jace said, "Use wild charge!"

The following explosion of sparks blasted away the web and once more sent Pikachu flying. Thankfully his little buddy caught himself before getting too beat up.

"Flare Blitz!"

"Use quick attack to dodge!"

Pikachu ducked underneath the flames, dashing away in a cloud of dust.

"Now get close and low..."

Pikachu weaved. Suddenly appearing underneath the Arcanine's maw...

"Use Iron Tail!"

The mouse Pokémon's tail, gleamed once more as it was hurled upward. It smacked the Arcanine in square in the jaw, sending the fire type tumbling into the dirt.

"Pika!"

"Critical Hit!"

The crowd roared with excitement.

Arcanine got back up, shaking their head to probably get rid of the dizziness of the blow.

"Can you keep going?" Jace called out.

Arcanine nodded.

"Good time to end this, Flare Blitz!"

"Use Thunderbolt to counter!"

Fire and lightning clashed in an energic inferno that lit up the arena with a metaphorical second sun. Ash shut his eyes to the light, blinded by the sheer power of the two attacks going head-to-head.

"Pikachu!" He called out.

The light faded, and the dust settled. Ash, Jace, the crowd all watched in silence. Simply watching the two Pokémon on the battlefield. Both still as statues...holding on.

Then Arcanine stumbled, slowly crumbling to the ground.

"Arcanine is unable to battle! Pikachu is the winner! The match goes to Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town!"

Chapter Text

The lights of the stadium were far too bright, and the chanting of the crowd made his stomach churn. Goh was not a battle-oriented trainer. He could see the fun of it, but it wasn’t his passion. Catching and raising was more fulfilling to him.

Hence the reason as to why he was so uncomfortable in his current situation.

“Please welcome to the Arena competitors, Goh of Vermillion City, and Hemlock of Petalburg!”

Goh swallowed and walked to his place on the battlefield. Hesitantly, he looked up at his opponent expecting to see a hard-core professional battler. Only to see a very laid back man in a tourist shirt and very large straw hat. Well, okay. Hemlock wasn’t comforting, but for some reason Goh stomach stopped churning at the sight of him. The blue-eyed trainer knew he was going to lose but he wasn’t sure if losing to Hemlock was going to be less or more embarrassing.

“This is an official Pokémon league battle. The terms are three Pokémon per trainer. Substitutions are allowed. A Pokémon will be deemed unfit to battle on account of fainting. No lethal measures are allowed. Trainers select your first Pokémon.”

The rotom-drone called out.

“Alright! Cacturne you’re up!” Hemlock called out in a voice that was far more commanding than his appearance should allow.

Goh swallowed, and looked down at Raboot, “You want to go first?”

She nodded.

Goh furrowed his brows in determination, “Right let’s do this.”

Raboot ran onto the Battlefield and the crowd roared with excitement.

“Sandstorm!” Hemlock ordered with a strictness that once more Goh wasn’t expecting.

The arena was suddenly flooded with sand. The wind whipped and whirled wildly. Goh flinched at the bite of bitter grains hitting his face. He shielded himself with his arms, but still the visibility of the battlefield had been lowered greatly. Goh could barely tell where Raboot was. That Cacturne must have the ability of sand veil. This storm was stronger than normal sandstorm attacks.

Goh opened his mouth…only get sand in it.

“Spikes!” Hemlock called out before Goh had the chance to counter.

Thankfully Raboot didn’t need to be told to dodge the one coming flying at her head. Unfortunately, with how thick the storm was, it had been near impossible to see where the spikes actually landed. Clever, Goh thought. Like this it was practically rigging a trap right underneath even one of Raboot’s steps since there was no way to see the spikes until it was too late.

What would Ash do?

“Boot?”

Goh met Raboot’s eyes on the battlefield. He needed to say something! Anything! Currently they were a boat on a raging sea with no captain taking charge. With little to no ideas in his brain, and a near limp with nerves tongue…

Goh said, “Use ember?”

Taking her trainer’s word-even if it was unsure-Raboot complied. The fire from the attack was shot blindly into the storm. The Cacturne only dodged the shots that got to close. Goh was grasping for straws as to what to do next, when something caught his eye. Little glints in the rush of the storm. The light of the fire caught on the spikes. He could see them.

Oh, all that time spent listening to Ash ramble about battles actually paid off.

Goh worked quickly after that. Something clicked inside of his head. Each step forward in this battle suddenly cleared. And before he knew it…

“Cacturne is unable to battle Raboot Wins!”

The announcer calls out over the screaming stadium. Raboot was panting heavily, but when she turned to look at Goh, he knew she was smiling.

He did it. Goh actually did it. He’d never actually taken out an opponent like that! It was fulfilling.

“AGH!!!” Hemlock cried, “YOU DID WELL SOLDIER! REST NOW!” he recalled the Cacturne, and then threw out his second Pokémon, “Rain dance!”

A wild Lombre leaped onto the battlefield. A rainstorm came crashing down. Once more Goh couldn’t see a thing and now, he was soaking wet. Wonderful.

James was pulled underneath the counter of the food stand, with a near violent tug. His face was pulled close to Jessie’s nose. The distance would probably be uncomfortable to anyone else, but years of friendship has made James used to his partners more enthusiastic tendencies.

“It looks to me that the twerps have some new members, don’t you?” Jessie said.

“Seems like they’s gotten taller too,” Meowth said, popping up from out of nowhere. A brown curly wig on the cat Pokémon’s head.

“They do look familiar it’s true,” James said.

“Think they’s here on official business?” Meowth said.

“It’s possible. But what could a small town competition, have to do with Pokémon research?” James asked.

“Maybe it’s a way to make Pokémon more powerful in battles?” Meowth said.

“If so, such valuable information would certainly make the boss happy,” Jessie said.

“Such information the twerps would be happy to hand over,” James said.

“So we’re in agreement? Crash the competition, and pluck the Pokémon along with the research?” Jessie said.

They all nodded.

“Wobbuffet!”

“Goh! You did great!” Ash said running up to his friend.

“Don’t touch me I’m soaking wet!” Goh said.

Ash backed off with his hands raised in surrender. The dark haired trainer bit his lip in an attempt at not laughing. True to his friend’s words, Goh was utterly soaked. His brow hair hung limply in lumpy shiny clumps. His jacket and pants were darkened with damp and sticking to his frame oddly. And finally his shoes, they squished and squealed with every step. Raboot didn’t look that much better. The fire-type was awake, now clinging to her trainer’s back, but still incredibly wet from the hydro pump attack.

“Alright, alright, still you did good,” Ash said.

“I lost,” Goh said.

“But you took out two of your opponent’s Pokémon that’s a huge improvement form your last tournament,” Ash said.

“Pika Pika!” The yellow mouse squealed from his place on Ash’s shoulder.

“Ri!”

Goh ran a hand through is wet hair, “I guess you’re right.”

Both boys walked back into the bleachers and sat down. Ash ignoring the odd stares that the other audience members were giving them and making sure Goh didn’t see them.

“You did well, Goh,” Sir Aaron said.

“Could’ve been worse,” Goh said, “At least I wasn’t one-shotted like last time.”

“Even a small step is still moving forward,” Sir Aaron said.

“That’s deep,” Ash said, “Where’d you hear that?”

“I-I am not certain. Must have been something my tutors said a long time ago,” Sir Aaron said.

Goh suddenly perked up from where he had slumped in his seat, “Hey Lucario isn’t back yet?”

Sir Aaron shook his head, “No. He’s still with Amanda,” There was a subtle glow in his icy eyes, “Both of them are safe as far as I can tell.”

“Isn’t she up next after this match? They need to get back,” Goh said.

Ash felt a small lump of dread knot in his stomach. Something was going to go wrong, wasn’t it?

Lucario glanced over to the magic box in the corner of the room, from his post at the entry door. Goh’s battle ended, sadly in defeat. His ear flicked, as he looked towards the young mistress. The jackal like Pokémon has no clue how or what Amanda was doing, but she needed to do it will more haste.

How much longer do you need?

“Just a few more minutes, the firewalls here were harder to get passed then the other Rocket facility,” Amanda said.

Firewalls?

“Pi! Pich! Chu! (they protect the files from Hackers that are trying to steal them),” The tiny pale-yellow mouse called out from his trainer’s shoulder.

“Lu Car Rio Lu (Protect them? If Amanda broke passed them they weren’t doing their duty well).”

“Pich Chu PI! (Actually they were pretty decent).”

“Car Rio Lu (How are you certain)?”

“Pichu Pi (When your human is really into this kind of thing you pick up a few things, at least enough to read basic coding script).”

“Rio (Really?)”

Pichu nodded, “Pi Pi Chu (Didn’t you learn anything from Sir Aaron)?”

“Lu Cari Car (in a way, not quite the skills you speak of, but similar).”

“Chu (like what)?”

“Cari Rio Lu Lu (Combat tactics mostly, along with my Guardian training).”

“Pi Pi pi Chu Chupi! (Cool! Mandy has taught me fighting things too, but she doesn’t like battles that much. She says it was just in case. I’m excited to battle today. We haven’t done anything like it since-”

Umbreon was suddenly on her paws, and Pichu stopped talking. Red and brown eyes shared a tense glance, understanding passing between them. Lucario took note of the interaction. Seems as if Pichu was about to let a rather sensitive secret slip. What form of event in Amanda’s past would cause not only her to never speak of it, but for her Pokémon to follow in her footsteps. Hum…

“Cari Lu (as ‘awesome’ that combat is, I also find it fascinating that you can read human computer script. I find their paper script impossible to comprehend).”

Pichu tilted his tiny head suddenly puzzled, “Pi chu Chu Pi (you can’t read)?”

“Bree umbre Eon (Not all Pokémon have the chance to learn).” The black Pokémon chimed in.

Umbreon was an interesting character, in Lucario’s opinion. She followed her trainer like a shadow, ever silent, ever loyal. Lucario never thought to engage in much conversation with her. However, he might have too now. Especially, since it appears that Umbreon held the key what would begin to unlock the puzzle that was Amanda.

Lucario was about to continue the conversation, hoping for another slip of knowledge, only for something to make his senses buzz with alarm. The soft padding of ghost footsteps echoed in his mind. Not close enough yet to actually hear, but they were coming nearer.

“What’s wrong?” Amanda said, picking up on the tenser atmosphere.

Someone is coming. How much longer?

“Download is currently at 78%, I need two more minutes.”

The footsteps became audible, and suddenly the knob on the door began to jiggle.

We don’t have that time.

Chapter Text

Pichu popped out from his hiding spot, behind a pipe in the corner of the main computer lab. The mouse Pokémon's head darted from side to side, making sure the room was empty before moving forward. Clear, move. He dashed forward, and jumped up onto the desk while using the drawer handles on the left side as a ladder. Ears swiveled and nose twitched as his tiny paws seized their prize, the flash drive that his trainer had left in the plug in. Package safely in hand, he jumped down, scampering down the floor towards the back corner once more.

Hidden behind the pipes and equipment, was a small little vent. Of which its grate was loose on one side. Pichu slipped the flash drive through the metal bars of the grate, before going towards the loose side. It took a little prying and struggle, but the mouse squeezed into the vent with a small tumble. Shaking his head clear, Pichu grabbed the flash drive again and darted through the ventilation system. Thank Arceus, that his trainer had looked up the building specs and made everyone study them before arriving. Pichu would be in real trouble if he didn't know where he was going.

He had a deadline to keep.

The room around her was still, other than the fluorescent light that sometimes flickered overhead. A simple padded bench was beneath her. The walls an eggshell white, and the floor had glossy grey tiles, made to resemble marble but were still far from the real deal. Amanda would call it almost clinical if it weren't for the filthy state of the room.

Umbreon sat at her side, and the young woman reached out a hand to rub her partner's head. The room certainly wasn't built to reduce trainer's anxiety before a battle. Then again, what would a terrorist organization know about trainer psychology. She shouldn't have hurried to arrive here, but it would've looked worse if she didn't fake panic.

The door opened slowly, light slipping into the dark computer terminal. Amanda very quickly shut off the computer screen, but kept the machine running, allowing the download to complete. She held a sigh of relief when she saw the stranger who had walked on her committing digital theft. A janitor. No giant red "R" on his shirt, or weird hat. Just a normal, middle aged, brunette janitor.

He looked at her through thick round glasses. His brown eyes searched her, puzzled.

"What are you doing in here Lil 'miss?" He asked.

Amanda made an over exaggerated surprised face, widening her eyes and bringing a hand to her mouth.

"Oh, I wish I knew. I was trying to get to the arena, but got lost in the crowd," She said with giggle, and bouncy movements, like that of a dumb empty-headed girl, "I thought I could slip the crowds by going up stairs then down. I mistook this for a stair well. I didn't mean to cause any trouble!"

The janitor's face softened, clearly fooled by her act. Hook line and sinker. She still had it.

"Well, c'mon no use staying up here," He said, "Don't worry I'll show you to the stadium."

"Oh, I can't ask you to do that, sir," Amanda said. Refuse all help, citing you don't want to be burden to them. Make them feel selfless. The hero.

"Don't worry about hon."

Amanda twisted a finger into one of her dyed locks, and bit her lip.

She had left Pichu in the room to collect the flash drive after she, Umbreon and Lucario were escorted out. Her little buddy was small and stealthy, and in a room that had a lot of power running into it, if he was caught, they would chalk it up to him being electricity hungry. She pulled her phone from her pocket and checked the time.

Pichu was cutting it a little close, there was only three minutes until she was scheduled to go on. She needed three Pokémon. Without Pichu her team would be incomplete. Putting her at a disadvantage. Not that she wanted to win. She was indifferent to victory now that her objective was completed. The only reasons that she didn't pull out is that it would be unfair to the other competitors, and it would look suspicious if the janitor who saw her talked to someone about their interaction.

The vent in the corner of the room shook and gave out. A little ball of pale yellow and black fluff fell out. Pichu sneezed as he reoriented himself from the stumble. Then held up the flash drive over his head in a victorious manner.

"Pi Chu!"

Amanda smiled, and collected the drive from the mouse, "Nice work."

She slipped the flash drive into pocket along with her phone, and the door to the arena opened. Beckoning them to go through. Amanda swallowed and stood up. No time like the present.

Being on the battlefield brought back bad feelings...and things...she didn't want to remember. However, she measured her breathing, and focused on the differences. This arena was brightly lit, the sky visible through a ceiling window. Not underground, and lights flashing in a chaotic storm. The air was clear, no smoke or smells to cloud her eyes or judgment. And the crowd, they weren't screaming, lusting, for a fight of bloodshed and death. They were simply people who wanted a good show.

She had forgotten how clean Pokémon battles could be.

"Please welcome the competitors to the arena! Odette Cinq-Mars from Lumiose City! And Amanda Gen from....From?...is this right?...Amanda Gen from Ryme City?"

At the announcer's rather confused declaration, similar feelings rippled through the crowd like a riptide. Amanda could hear them whisper to each other trying to confirm what they had just been told. Yes, people you aren't dreaming a gal from Ryme City is competing, get over yourselves.

Amanda rolled her eyes and looked at her opponent. Odette was a short girl with heavy curves in her build, specifically around her waist. Her black hair was worn in two thick braids. Underneath a pair of thick frames was a pretty pair of maroon eyes, and a displeased expression on her face. She wore a white tracksuit with purple accents, her sneakers made to match, over that was a sleeveless black crop top.

"I got a kid from Ryme?" Odette spoke, "This is going to be easy."

Amanda smirked, "Don't judge a book by its cover."

"This is an official Pokémon league battle. The terms are three Pokémon per trainer. Substitutions are allowed. A Pokémon will be deemed unfit to battle on account of fainting. No lethal measures are allowed. Trainers select your first Pokémon."

"Ange! Come on out!" Odette called out.

Floating on to the battlefield came a Chandelure, that cackled manically. A ghost/fire type. By logic, Amanda should play Umbreon to have the advantage, however something told her to hold off. She thumbed the pokeball on her belt. Plucking the sphere from its place, pressed the button and threw hard.

"Lucario!" Ash said seeing the Jackal Pokémon running back towards the group, "How did it go?"

I'm unsure as to how we accomplished the mission, but if Pichu manages to return to Amanda after retrieving the flashdrive, we are victorious.

"Well, done," Sir Aaron said.

Lucario smirked with pride, Riolu now jumping at his feet.

"Please welcome the competitors to the arena! Odette Cinq-Mars from Lumiose City! And Amanda Gen from....From?...is this right?...Amanda Gen from Ryme City!"

At the announcement, Ash began to smile. He was excited to see Amanda battle. He could tell that she had trained her Pokémon well. The night she broke into the lab was a testament to that. Pichus didn't naturally learn Body Slam after all.

However, his excitement morphed into annoyance, at the sudden murmuring and whispering when his cousin's name was announced. So, what if she was from Ryme City?! She didn't deserve to be underestimated because of that. He and Pikachu shared an unimpressed glance. The irritation he felt was kind of personal, there were so many times he had been called farm boy when people learned he was from Pallet town. No way was he okay with letting people judging his cousin for where she came from.

Odette sent a Chandelure out. And Ash paid close attention to who Amanda grabbed. Subconsciously expecting, for either pIchu or Umbreon to be sent out. Only to be surprised when she reached for the single poke ball that she kept on her belt. From the thrown ball flipped on to the battle field was...a Roserade.

In the corner of his eye, he watched as Goh pulled out his phone, and open the pokedex app.

"Roserade, the bouquet Pokémon, and the evolved form of Roselia. A grass and poison type. With its beautiful blooms, enticing aroma and graceful movements, Roserade is quite enchanting, however its appearance can be deceiving. Its arms conceal thorny whips that carry poison to harm opponents."

Goh looked at his phone, his face appearing puzzled, "Why would she play Roserade? Chandelure is a ghost and fire type, she's at a disadvantage."

"Amanda has a plan Goh, I know she does."

"You're making this easy!" Odette said, "Fire Blast!"

"Grass whistle!"

A giant wall of flames descended on the battle field, but through the blazing chaos, came a trilling melody and bright green glow. Right in the middle of throwing the blaze, the ghostly chandelier was put to sleep. He felt to the battlefield floor, with a clatter and snoozing bubble of drool. Roserade twirled away from the flames with some singe on his leaves, but he was still standing. And that damage wouldn't be there much longer.

"What?" Odette looked confused.

"Oh, let me guess wasn't expecting that counter attack from a Ryme kid?" Amanda smirked, "Well, then you're going to hate this! Giga drain!"

Both Pokémon, one burned and one unconscious, began to gleam in bright green. Roserade's wounds healed, while Chandelure seemed to fall deeper into sleep. Odette continued to call from her side of the field trying to wake her Pokémon. Amanda smirked. Roserade's strategy was a simple but effective one. Incapacitate and feed. There was something horribly satisfying about having your enemy feed their own downfall. Amanda ordered two more drains.

Still, she wanted a fair victory...

"Toxic," Amanda ordered.

Coiling bubbles of drenched purple spun and spat. They splashed against the Chandelure, penetrating the ghost type's matter, turning the already violet hue deeper into an elderberry tone. The poisoning woke up her opponent, but Amanda wasn't too worried. The drain had made the chandelier Pokémon weak.

"Are you okay?" Odette asked.

Chandelure shuddered against the poison but gave his trainer a determined nod.

"Good, Shadow Ball!"

"Dodge!"

Roserade, twisted and twirled a way from the Shadow ball. The darkened sphere continued to chance Amanda's little dancer. She bit her tongue, feeling stupid, unless blocked with another move Shadow ball always hit its target. In a cloud of dark smoke, she heard a scream and then watched as Roserade was thrown across the battlefield, before struggling back up.

This had to end.

"Fire blast!"

"Sludge Bomb!"

Fire and living tentacles of pure poison launched and lashed across the battlefield. An explosion of hot embers and putrid splatter lit up the arena in a red plume with violet smog. Amanda shielded herself with her arms and a wince from the heat and rather unpleasant smell. Through a squint she looked for her little dancer.

"Roserade and Chandelure are both unable to battle! This round ends in a draw!"

Amanda returned Roserade to his Pokeball, trying to ignore the cold feeling in stomach.

She looked to the little one on her shoulder, "Ready?"

"Pichu!"

"Whoa, she's doing a lot better than I did," Goh said.

Raboot turned to look at her trainer with a rather displeased expression.

"I mean strategy wise. Putting an opponent to sleep and then sucking the life out of them. Ruthless."

Sir Aaron could only agree. Ruthless was a good word for describing his niece on the battlefield. Not that the knight knew much about Pokémon battling (war didn't count), but he could tell that Amanda was holding back. Like there was a line she was scared to cross. After all she did wake up the Chandelure before completely knocking her opponent out with the Giga Drain.

Pichu used body slam on the Froslass, who retaliated by freezing the poor mouse with an ice beam. Amanda solved the issue by having Pichu use nuzzle to break the ice.

She also seemed to have the same sort of battle intuition that Ash possessed. Yet, she didn't allow herself to become as immersed in the fight as Ash usually did. The boy on the battlefield, put all his focus on the fight. His heart, mind and soul. His love for the sport driving him forward and making his aura flare with raw power.

In contrast Amanda's aura remained restricted. The dark chains keep their tight hold. Not suffocating, but still holding her back. Like they were constantly reminding her not to grow too excited.

"Pichu is unable to battle! Froslass wins!"

His niece instead walked on to the field to retrieve her mouse, cradling him in her arms as she took her place. The knight couldn't hear what she was saying, but he knew she was comforting Pichu. And probably apologizing if the heavy wave of guilt that just washed through her soul was any indicator. She nodded for Umbreon to head on to the field.

"Since you seem to like this move. Why don't I show you, our version! Toxic!" Odette said.

The fizz of hard poison rippled in the air and struck Umbreon. Perfect. For Amanda it hurt to watch as her partner's cheek flushed with a violet tinted hue, however she knew this would work in their favor. A pale glow simmered across Umbreon's dark fur, and suddenly Froslass had the same purple tone on her face and ill expression.

Odette looked a little surprised, and slightly panicked.

Was now a good time to mention that Umbreon's ability was synchronize? The only ability that passes poison, paralysis, or burns on to the Pokémon that inflicted them? And that she was about to be an even worse person.

"Refresh!" Amanda called.

A blue glow surrounded Umbreon's body, and all poison was cured.

"What a move, Umbreon's synchronize has turned Froslass's poisoning onto themselves!"

Amanda smirked. She loved it when this happened.

"Not bad, Ryme" Odette called, "can you keep going, Isaur?"

"Lass!"

"Then let's try and stop them from doing anything else! Ice beam!"

Icy blue lit filled the arena...

"Dodge and use shadow ball!"

Umbreon was fast. Amanda had trained her with speed in mind, never wanting anything deadly to hit her. The speed of the dark type combined with and ice beam, meant that the battlefield was about two steps away from an ice rink. But eventually the attack ran out of steam, and her partner took her shot. The poison, exhaustion for battling, and having to dragon that ice beam for as long as she did, the Shadow Ball was a direct hit and...

"Froslass is unable to battle! Umbreon wins!"

Umbreon relaxed as her opponent went down. Crimson eyes glanced back at her, and Amanda knew they were smiling. The dark type was definitely handling the whole battling thing better than her human partner was. It was comforting.

Odette sent out her third pokemon....and all that comfort was out the window. It was a Sylveon. A fucking shiny sylveon. Of course. Why did it have to be a sylveon? Amanda swallowed down a panic attack...and a whole lot of bile.

Then the sky light caved in...

"Prepare for touble! You'd better duck!"

"And make it double! You've run out of Luck!"

Amanda looked up and screamed, "What the fuck?!"

Chapter Text

 Glass had flown in every direction after the skylight caved in. On instinct he threw himself to the ground, hiding his body behind the bleachers and his face in his hands. Ash really shouldn’t be so surprised. It had been a hot minute since he had met with his usual trio of stalkers, so a visit was due, but seriously? Right now?

The blue light of a Sir Aaron’s shield slipped away as he let it drop. Ash clamored to his feet, no even realizing that the knight had tried to shield them until that point. The dark-haired trainer looked to the battlefield for his cousin and breathed a sigh of relief when he saw a similar blue shield dissipate above her head. She looked confused at first, locking eyes with Sir Aaron, before turning her attention back to the balloon.

What’s happening?

“Team Rocket is here,” Ash said.

“The ones’ who kidnapped you?” Sir Aaron said.

“No these are the three grunts who just follow us everywhere. They’re mostly harmless,” Ash said, taking off into the screaming crowd. Jumping from one bleacher to the next.

“Why would they be attacking? This is a front for a Team Rocket facility! Are they running it or stealing from themselves?!” Goh called out after him.

“Well, that was rather rude,” A woman with the longest pink hair said looking down at Amanda from above her nose.

“Such language is unnecessary it’s true,” the man with the blue bob said shaking his head.

Amanda scoffed in disbelief, “What unnecessary language? You literally just slammed through the roof with giant meowth head for a balloon! And why are you talking in rhyme?!”

“Ya know some people just can’t appreciate a good show,” The fucking meowth of all things said.

“It’s sad, the other twerpettes were more fun, you know?” The woman said.

“Wobbuffet!”

Okay what the ever-loving fuck? Amanda tried desperately to comprehend the utter insanity in front of her. A woman with way too much spray in her hair, a man who looked both confident yet unsure, both of which were in Team Rocket uniforms, and a talking meowth just crashed through a skylight in a meowth shaped hot air balloon. What part of secret criminal organization did these grunts not get? Where were the normal grunts who just tried to beat up and kidnap her?

“Team Rocket!” Ash screamed as he ran into the Arena.

Wait, her cousin knew these guys?

“My, my looky here’s the twerp!” The Meowth said.

“Are you seriously doing this right now?” Ash said, “We’re on a time crunch here!”

“Pika Pika!”

Amanda tuned out the banter that Ash was sharing with the grunts. The crowds around them were running wild, some clearly trying to leave as fast as possible while other just seemed plain confused. Uncle Aaron, Goh, and Lucario were still in their place, clearly paying close attention to the scene unfolding. Ready to intervene should they need to.

Odette was stuck in her place, just staring on in bewilderment. She looked to Amanda, and the young aura user just motioned for her opponent to flee. Thankfully Odette listened, recalling her Sylvoen and booking it out the arena.

The crowds having thinned, Amanda grit her teeth and turned back to the grunts. She had enough of this. Who’s to say these guys weren’t just a distraction to make it easier to grab them.

“Shadow Ball!” Amanda ordered and her partner was quick to comply.

Umbreon leaped forward launch, a sphere of shadows and smoke generating in front of her.

“Amanda wait!” Ash tried to warn, but it was too late.

The orb of smoke was flying towards the two grunts and their mangy cat. It was a perfect shot. It would hit. It should have hit, but…

“Mirror Coat!” the woman screamed.

Amanda’s stomach dropped…a missing variable that she didn’t solve in time…

The Wobbuffent leaped up onto the rim of the balloon basket. Its blue flesh shifted in a swirling hue that shined like polished pearls. The shadow ball collided with the gleaming body. Light shifted, infusing the given attack with power untold and then launching it back at them.

Amanda wasn’t sure what happened next, her feet moved, something was shoved behind her as she futilely tried to shield whatever was behind her from the attack. She couldn’t let anyone else…The light flashes and Amanda’s eyes sealed shut. She braced…for a hit that never came.

Her eyes opened and she let out a quiet gasp. Blue bubbling light washed over her in waves from the aura field overhead. Where? From behind her popped out her cousin, who looked equality as surprised by the field.

“What in the world?!” The meowth screamed. While the grunts only blinked.

Then they screamed, as the balloon basket was suddenly rocked by an explosion from blue sphere.

“Harming the children was a bad play!” Uncle Aaron shouted from the other side of the battlefield.

Her uncle lowered his hand and the field around them dropped. Lucario leaped in front of them. Making himself into a barrier between them and the grunts.

The Meowth growled then his eyes blew wide, “Wait a second I know you! Yous were in that freaky tree with us ‘bout three years ago!”

Seems as if you’re memory isn’t as short as I believe it to be, stray.

“Ooh! Hey! I also remember that yous didn’t make it, hound!” Meowth growled.

“The word of our deaths was greatly exaggerated,” Uncle Aaron said.

“hummm and let me guess yous not the sucker from Iron Island, huh?” Meowth said.

“I hope to visit one day,” Uncle Aaron said with a smile.

“Enough of this ridiculous game!” The woman said.

“It’s time for you to witness Team Rocket’s ticket to fame!” Said the man.

And now their back to talking in rhyme…great…

“If it’s a battle you want! It’s a battle you’ll get!”

“Just make sure you don’t lose your bet!”

That last line didn’t even make sense, Amanda wanted to scream. However what happened next was even more confusing.

“Alright come on down!” the grunts screamed.

Through the broken sky light flew in a Pelipper with a rather weak war cry and something rather large in its beak. The flying type then suddenly dropped…a gumball machine?...the grunts caught it and then screwed the meowth’s charm into the coin slot. Amanda held back a wince that had to hurt. And then collected an oddly painted pokeball.

“Only one?” the man said.

“We’ll still win,” the women replied and then hurled the poke ball at them.

Lucario seemed to tense, readying himself for a fight. Umbreon and Pikachu followed suit, joining the jackal like Pokémon in the space been their group and the grunts.

There was a flash of light, and…

“KARP!!!!”

A rather large magikarp flopped on to the floor. It’s eyes wide and empty, as it struggled there. It’s sizable fins flapping uselessly. Those fins were really big. Amanda and Ash shared a glance, both knowing what that meant…oh no…

“A magikarp?! Seriously! What do we have to do to get some good pokemon!?” the woman raged, slapping the gumball machine repeatedly.

The man just sighed, “This is embarrassing…”

“So same time next week?” Ash said, with much sarcasm.

“Are you scheduling with your stalkers now?” Goh said.

“Goh they’ve been after me for six years, you learn a lot about your stalkers in that kind of time,” Ash said, then turned back to the grunts, “Wanna re-schedule?”

“If it’s an option,” them and said.

“No! We can still do this; we just need to get this stupid dispenser to work right!” The woman screamed now shoving a clearly dizzy meowth into the coin slot again.

“Does that mean we can leave?” Amanda said, “Because we should probably get out of here.”

“Why?” Goh asked.

The fish on the floor suddenly began to gleam in bright blue and sparkle.

“Before that happens!” Amanda said.

“Oh no not again!” The male grunt said.

Amanda’s mind began to spin and churn. Magikarp evolved into Gyarados. Gyarados were powerhouse of water type Pokémon. And highly aggressive. Prone to rampages with powerful sprays of water that could blow a man’s head off if it chose to. Water. Water that Amanda couldn’t stop.

“DOS!!!!!!”

James shook out his wet hair, as he pulled himself off of the dirt road he was thrown into. Getting blasted off, by a hydro pump attack was worse than just normally blasting off. What was with him and Gyarados? First it was that incident where he got conned on that stupid boat, and then stranded on an island of giant Pokémon. And now this?!

Ughhhh. He just needed to stay away from the ocean. Shame that he loved fishing so much.

Jessie let out a shriek as she sat up, “Why does this keep happening?! We were so close!”

They really weren’t but James wasn’t going to correct his partner. This was as close to positive thinking as Jessie got in this state.

“Just a bad luck of the draw, Jess,” Meowth whined, “Well, get ‘em, next ‘round.”

“We’d better!”

“Wobba…”

James just tuned out his teammates squabbling and started to replay the recent events before the Gyaradoss slapped them away and sprayed them with water. Things were different this time. That girl. The new twerpette. She wasn’t like the others he has seen before. She was too old, and not as perky. Sure the first red head Twerpette had a temper, and the others could put up a fight if needed, but this one.

She was ready to blow them away before they even finished monologuing. She didn’t bother with the dramatics. And the way she held herself. Proud, yet internally stressed beyond her mind. Like she had to have the world on her shoulders. Clearly from a wealthy family, if James could tell. Took a rich kid to know a rich kid. Though her situation probably wasn’t exactly like James’. Still her home wasn’t a happy one.

“James!”

Th blue haired man startled, “Uh, what Jessie?”

“I’ve been trying to get your attention for the past five minutes, what is up with you?” Jessie said.

“Sorry, it’s just don’t you think that last encounter with the twerps was a little odd?” James said.

“What was odd about it? We gave our best entrance, then the dispenser screwed us over,” Jessie said.

“No, James is right,” Meowth chimed in, “Dat Lucario…humm..Did neither of ya really no recognize him?”

“What was to recognize it was a Lucario,” Jessie said.

“The one from the Cameron Palace,” James said, “We never saw him after that, did we?”

“Well, dat cause he’s suppose ta be dead,” Meowth said.

“And so was that man with him,” James said, “Two ghost back from the dead. Maybe we need to lay low for a while.”

“Lay low?! At a time like this!” Jessie said suddenly excited, “We give up this opportunity!”

“Opportunity?” James said.

“Clearly the twerps have found a way to bring back the dead! We bring back that discovery back to the boss and we’ll be set for life!” Jessie said.

“Yeah! Such a t’ing might not be a powerful Pokémon, but the secret to life and death gotta be somet’ing that boss would love! And with no zombie issue to boot!” Meowth said.

“So, we agree, steal the secret revival magic and give to the boss?” Jessie squealed.

James was about to agree. When a shiver went up his spine.

“I’m afraid…”

James turned around, only to see a purple figure…then black swallowed his vision.

“I cannot allow you to got through with that plan."

Chapter Text

Modern showers were something out of heaven. This was what Sir Aaron believed to be the most wonderous invention that humanity had ever created. Not the delicious food of today, not the devices his niece was obsessed with, not whatever the internet was. The showers. Especially, taking a shower after being washed out of a building by a giant sea monster.

The knight finally understood why Amanda took so long to get ready in the mornings. The showers were just simply bliss. The warm clean feeling they gave was a great comfort after being doused in salty ice-cold water. The soft sleep clothes only added to this effect.

The same couldn’t be said for Lucario however, his auratic partner just couldn’t see the appeal of modern showers and had to be convinced to be rinsed off. The re-wetting certainly didn’t do anything for Lucario’s mood. The Jackal like Pokémon was now back to burrowing into the sofa of their hotel room.

And misery loved to have company.

“I never need to see another Gyrados again,” Goh groaned, flopping onto his bedding.

“Oh, then how will you fill your pokedex?” Amanda chimed in from the small breakfast table on the other side of the room.

“Don’t patronize me,” Goh groaned, “Wait you could hear me?”

“My main pair of hearing aids may be waterlogged, but that doesn’t I don’t have a spare,” Amanda said, not looking up from her laptop screen.

Goh hummed and nodded.

“Is it more common to see, sea beasts such at that one?” Sir Aaron asked.

“Any water-type trainer is likely gunning for one,” Amanda said.

“Sea Beasts?” Goh said.

“That’s what my sailor friends called them. I haven’t seen one in person before today, and I’d rather not meet once again,” Sir Aaron.

“Wait you’ve never seen one?” Goh sat up on his elbows.

Sir Aaron shook his head, “Cameron Palace was not near a seaport. I was never in the right location to see one.”

Thank the Alpha for that. Lucario grumbled, amazingly allowing Riolu to climb all over him. Sir Aaron suppressed a smile at the sight; that pup had his partner wrapped around his small paw.

“Huh, I guess you wouldn’t, after all wild Gyrados live in open deep water, and none of them were domesticated before the late 1800s,” Goh mumbled to himself.

The door opened and in walked Ash, still in damp day clothes, and many white bags in hand. Pikachu jumped from his trainer’s shoulder and ran into the room at Pichu, inciting a game of tag.

“Dinner!” Ash shouted, “That’s little place I remembered from my time traveling for the Unova league was still open!”

Ash walked over to the breakfast table and began unpacking the bags. Amanda leaned away with slight distaste.

“Uhm, are you not going to shower before you eat?” Amanda asked.

“No, why?” Ash raised a confused brow.

Amanda’s expression flattened, “Do you know how much saliva in is a Gyrados’s hydro pump attack?”

“Annnnnd! Shower sounds like a good idea!” Ash slapped the table top as he walked towards the washroom, “Can you keep my food warm?”

“No problem!” Goh said, walking over to the table, and resuming the unpacking of evening meal, “‘Teriyaki Hoohoot on rice with wasabi?’” He read out loud.

“That’s my order,” Amanda said, Umbreon waking from her nap to sniff the food on the table.

Amanda continued to comb through the recently claimed data with a fine tooth. Her eyes never left the screen, scrutinizing every detail, every line of code, or file she opened. Her throat felt dry when she swallowed. This slight discomfort pulled her out of the hacker’s trance so to speak. Taking a second to glance at the clock, the young woman wasn’t too surprised to find that she had been at this for nearly seven hours straight.

Rubbing her eyes, Amanda leaned back into the cheap hotel chair that hadn’t been in style since the 70s. A drink. She needed a drink.

She slipped out of her seat carefully, not wanting to disturb Umbreon. Her partner had fallen asleep at her feet. Amanda crept across the room towards her bed and opened her bag. Pulling out her wallet, she tried to remember where exactly that vending machine she saw earlier was.

“What are you doing?”

Amanda froze and twisted around in the second, finding Goh awake in his bunk.

She bit her tongue, before whispering, “Getting a soda, you want one?”

“Sure.”

The venting machine was in the hotel lobby, which was just a short walk away thanks to their room being on the first floor. Amanda paid for the drinks. A cold orange juice for her, and cherri berry soda for Goh.

“Thank you,” Goh said.

Amanda took a sip of her juice, “Don’t worry about it, it’s just a soda.”

“No...uh...I mean…well yeah thanks for the soda…but that wasn’t what I was talking about,” Goh said, “I just realized I never thanked you for what you did for me…in the river…so thank you.”

Amanda blinked with surprise, before shaking her head, “No problem, it wasn’t much anyway.”

“Wasn’t much? You saved my life, and you call it nothing much?”

“It was just a reflex on my part. What I was trained to do.”

“Right, you worked as a lifeguard, didn’t you?”

Amanda huffed, “Yeah, wasted two years of my life.”

“Wasted?”

She hesitated before speaking, “I didn’t have enough money to pay for tuition saved. So, I took the job when my old swimming coach told me there was an opening. I graduated standard schooling a year early, so with that extra time plus the gap year I took, I managed to make enough for college. At least the first four years.”

“Didn’t have money for tuition? Isn’t your mom this hotshot professor? Shouldn’t she be loaded?”

“Yeah, she is, but that doesn’t mean I am.”

“And she didn’t pitch in to help you with school?”

“I didn’t want to study what she wanted me to, so she wasn’t obligated. Mom was also pissed at me for taking the gap year in the first place. I could be halfway to a bachelor’s right now if I didn’t. Technically I could try to beg for her forgiveness, but that doesn’t mean she’ll pitch in even if I do transfer majors.”

“Wait, so she’s ticked off at you, for working to go to school, because she won’t pay for it, because you want to study something you pick for yourself?”

“I know it was an idiot move, but don’t worry I’m dealing with the consequences. It’s not going to affect my work here.”

“I’m not worried about your work. Amanda that is messed up! It’s like textbook financial abuse or manipulation or something.”

“It’s not abuse,” Amanda snapped, “She’s away a lot this is just how she can show me what’s the right path for me.”

“Yeah, no. My parents are absent a lot, but they don’t try to control my life. You are you own person you’re allowed to have autonomy, your own choice of college.”

“Can we just stop?” Amanda said, “Look, I already have at least three more hours of hacking through code before I feel remotely okay with going to sleep.”

“It’s 2 am you’ll be up all night.”

“Not the first time.”

When they arrived back at the room, Amanda went straight to her laptop. Goh laid back down in his bed. There was a simmering emotion underneath her skin, but she shoved it away. Bottled it up. She didn’t have time for that nonsense. Her mother was distant yes, but she wasn’t abusive. Mother never hurt the twins. Amanda was just messed up.

She bit her lip and breeched another firewall. More files, more building specs…wait…what was that?

Her face relaxed, jaw dropping open slightly…Oh Arceus…She found him.

Chapter Text

“You found him?” Ash said, scrambling out of his bed with a sleepy Pikachu rolling off of him.

“Closest lead I’ve gotten so far,” Amanda said, his cousin’s face the picture-perfect image of someone who had way too much coffee and not enough sleep, but the excitement in her usually blank grey eyes was covering up the exhausted look somewhat.

“Did you sleep at all last night?” Ash said.

“yes…no…yes…what time is it?” Amanda said.

Dawn. Lucario grumbled, blinking away the sleep from his eyes.

“Well, the suns up so I am too,” Amanda said, “Besides, I can sleep on the plane ride back.”

Ash stood up, rubbing his eyes. The floor cold underneath his sock covered feet, as he walked over to see what was on Amanda’s laptop. Goh was stirring on his bed, hair almost wild enough to match with Ash’s blood relatives. Sir Aaron was standing and joining them, seemingly wide-awake despite being dead to the world not just a few minutes before.

“It’s a quarter to six,” Goh grumbled, looking at his phone but remaining in his bed, “I got up with you at three…you did not sleep.”

“Nope! But I have a good reason!” Amanda said.

“You found your brother,” Sir Aaron said.

“Well, I think I did,” Amanda said, “Come see this.”

Ash took the chair next to his cousin, petting the snoozing Umbreon on the floor with his foot, making sure not to hit her with a chair leg, before looking at laptop screen. Sir Aaron stood behind them looking down with interest. On the screen looked like a weird painting of some type of shape in front of a blackened screen, like a nameless structure of chicken wire stuck in a dark sky. Ash shared a glance with Sir Aaron, clearly communicating that neither of them knew what this had to do with Amanda’s finding.

“Whaaaaat are we looking at?” Ash said.

Amanda sighed, “Okay, so looking through the data I mined, I was sorting through things between a ‘helpful’ ‘likely’ and ‘junk’, categories. In Helpful I put all building specs and other things that might lead to Riley. After spending the last night roughly sorting things, I started on ‘helpful’ when I came across this.”

Ash raised a brow, “This is building spec? Where are the walls?”

“Not a building,” Amanda said, “An underground tunnel network, naturally formed if the 3D map is anything to go by. Or just made-”

“Without modern day techniques,” Sir Aaron suddenly said.

“Yeah,” Amanda raised a brow.

“Uhm, is there any way to see the whole network?” Sir Aaron said.

“You mean from like a flying-type’s eye view?” Amanda said.

Sir Aaron nodded.

“Ask and ye, shall receive,” Amanda said, and the spec swirled in one direction on the screen then zoomed out.

The knight gazed at the screen with intense consideration. Fingers gripping his chin as his teeth gently sank into his lip.

“Do you recognize it?” Ash said.

“I might. Some of it looks familiar. The Guild had many underground labyrinths built, usually to hide relics or to send royalty to for protection,” Sir Aaron explained.

“Some of those underground bases wouldn’t happen to be prisons, would they?” Amanda said, moving the spec on screen, to reveal what Ash guessed was a hallway, with heavy barred doors.

“Yes, some of them were, the most unsavory of souls were kept in them, rogue users, and such. Things that a normal dungeon couldn’t hold,” Sir Aaron said, “You believe they’re holding Riley in one.”

“Don’t worry, the irony is not lost on me Uncle, but this is the first place I’ve found that it seems likely to keep someone like Riley,” Amanda said, “If the prisons were attacked, during the rise of Team Normalcy I’m betting a lot of supplies was left behind, now most of it will have decayed over the centuries, but I take it that something made to keep an aura user from escaping would be pretty tough.”

“They’d also need that kind of tech to hold Riley,” Ash said, “He’s cable of breaking out a regular prison.”

“How do you know that?” Amanda said.

“Well, I did watch the guy prevent and island from blowing up, only using aura shields,” Ash said.

“Impressive,” Sir Aaron nodded.

“Guess he did learn something during those thirteen years of no contact,” Amanda grumbled.

“So, you really think is where this Riley guy is,” Goh yawned, finally sitting up in his bed.

“This is the only reference to a prison of any kind I’ve found. That and the fact there is a high chance other aura users were once kept here, is enough evidence to at least check it out,” Amanda said.

“Where is this?” Sir Aaron said.

“Finding it was more difficult,” Amanda said, “The coordinates aren’t in the specs, but cross referencing this place with a list of active bases I found, and then with a map, I managed to find a location. Underneath Mount Moon.”

“Kanto,” Ash said, “Right in our own backyard.”

“Can you show me that map?” Sir Aaron said.

Amanda obliged, pulling up a map of Kanto. Marking where Mount Moon was.

“Where would Cameron Palace be?” Sir Aaron said.

Amanda marked where the palace was.

“Yes, I know that place. We didn’t call it Mount Moon, instead, it was Fable Peek. The prison was built underneath it due to the unique nature of the mountain’s aura,” Sir Aaron.

“Unique nature? What makes it so special?” Amanda asked.

“The mountain’s stone has a very strong aura signature. So, even in the dark you’d be able to see the walls quite well, but you wouldn’t be able to sense a lesser aura signature inside of the prison. That way if a rogue user was held inside their allies wouldn’t be able to locate them,” Sir Aaron said.

“Well that explains why Lucario or you haven’t been able to find Riley using aura,” Ash said.

“Mount Moon is one of the richest evolution stone mines in the world,” Amanda said, “I wonder if that’s what making that place an aura hot spot, or vise versa.”

“So, that’s where we’re heading next? Great can we go back to bed?” Goh yawned.

“Sorry, guys, booked our flight already,” Amanda said, “We leave in three hours.”

Out of all the modern vehicles that Sir Aaron had ridden in, this one was by far the least stable. No offence to his niece, but this mobile home of hers…let’s just say that they could feel every bump in the liquid stone road. The plan they formed, after flying back to the lab from Unova, was to take Amanda’s RV to Mount Moon. It would be harder to track than public transportation and came with a place for Riley to rest after his imprisonment.

Speaking of rest, the lads had claimed the loft bed for themselves, while Lucario and the other pokemon slept on the couch. The sun had long set since they began their drive and not everyone managed to sleep well on the plane ride back.

Sir Aaron stumbled as the floor beneath his feet jerked again, but thankfully he didn’t smack into the tabletop next to him, or worse the floor. Slowly he made his way towards the front of the RV.

“Mind if I sit here?” Sir Aaron asked, taking the empty seat next to where his niece was driving.

“Just no Shotgun driving,” Amanda mumbled back, not taking her eyes off the dark road ahead of them.

“I’m afraid I don’t know what that means,” Sir Aaron said, settling in his seat.

“Seatbelt,” Amanda said.

The knight looked toward the wall on his right and grabbed the thick strap, “Right, I keep forgetting these things. Didn’t have them in carriages.”

“I’d imagine a lot of lives would’ve been saved if they had thought to tie down their passengers.”

“Quite true…so, pardon me if this is forward, but would you honor me with the knowledge of driving a modern vehicle?”

“You want me to teach you how to drive?” Amanda raised a confused brow.

“It seems as if it’s a skill I might need.”

“You know, why the heck not, Ash probably needs a teacher soon too. Might as well knock you both out before we say goodbye.”

“Say goodbye?”

“Well, yeah, after this is all over, it’s not like we’re going to talk to each other ever again.”

Sir Aaron looked to his niece in shock, “Do you really believe that?”

“Believe what?”

“That’s we won’t speak once this is over? You’re my niece I’d like to know you.”

Amanda shook her head, “No you don’t.”

“Yes, I do. You’re family, even if you want nothing to do with Aura. Just like Emily-”

“I’m not your sister!” Amanda snapped, before sighing, “Let’s get one thing straight, you’re not looking for a bond with me, you’re looking for a connection to her, because you’ve been tossed into this whirlwind of an adventure and haven’t had time to properly grieve. You don’t want me, you want her, and I don’t have time for that. Don’t worry you’ll get that connection with Riley. Arceus knows he’ll follow you like a lost puppy.”

Sir Aaron let a moment of silence settle before speaking his reply, “Perhaps you’re right, I do miss my sister, but you’re her child as much as Riley. I care about you as well.”

Amanda didn’t answer.

“If you don’t believe that I truly wish to be a part of your life, then I understand. And I hope you you’ll give me the chance to prove that.”

Amanda didn’t answer.

Sir Aaron sighed, “Then what of your brother? Do you believe that he’ll never speak to you after this quest?”

“Riley? Please he probably won’t even acknowledge me once we bust him out. He wants nothing to do with me. He’s made that clear.”

“But he’s your brother.”

“Who’s hasn’t talked to me in thirteen years. Not one call, not one note. He has more important things then me to worry about.”

“That can’t be true.”

“Please, he didn’t even come back home for our father’s funeral.”

“He didn’t?”

“No! Not the service, not the reception. I was grieved alone that day.”

“What of your mother? Certainly, she’d be with you.”

“No, she was mad at me, and she had to entertain the guests.”

“Perhaps he couldn’t make the date.”

“Maybe, but missing a date isn’t an excuse for not knowing your younger brothers.”

“What do you mean?”

“My little brothers, Constance and Carter, they don’t know who Riley is. They’ve never met him. To them he’s just a picture on the wall. He’s had seven years to meet them, there’s no excuse for that.”

Sir Aaron bit his lip, “If you’re so certain that Riley wants nothing of you, then why are you so determined to rescue him.”

Amanda took a deep breath through her nose, eyes closing for a moment, “Because I promised my dad, I’d always look out for my brothers. And issues with him or not, that means Riley too.”

The blue in her aura deepened with sorrow, but also swelled with a gleam admiration. Sir Aaron was pleased to sense it strengthening.

“You loved your father deeply, didn’t you?” Sir Aaron asked.

“Too much, my mother thought. Real Daddy’s girl. I needed to focus more on my future.”

“You looked up to him.”

“Who wouldn’t? He’s was a Ranger, saved people all over the world from disasters, fought in the Tri-Team war and lived. Hell, he even saved…” She swallowed and her grip on the steering wheel tightened. Grief dimmed the glow of her soul.

“You,” Sir Aaron said, it wasn’t questions.

“Yeah, me. A lot good that did him,” She grumbled.

The drive was continued in silence.

“Okay this is super freaky,” Goh said, looking at the dark forest around them.

Do we have a way in? Lucario turned to his master.

“I don’t recognize this forest,” Sir Aaron said.

“Well, there’s has been centuries for the vegetation to shift around,” Amanda said before turning to Pichu who sat on her shoulder, “Get to work.”

The tiny yellow mouse jumped off of his trainer’s shoulder and began sniffing the ground. The charged metallic sensation he was looking for wasn’t far off, but it took a few moments before he snagged a strong trail. His paws carried him towards a metal box covered in old vines and fallen leaves. He pointed at his find with a please squeak.

“Good job,” Amanda said, before walking over and opening the rusty door with her pocketknife.

“What’s that?” Goh asked.

“Fusebox,” Amanda said as the box opened with a shriek of moving hinges, “And our way in.”

“How?” Ash said.

“If this is connected to what I think it is, then if I pull the right wires, I can disconnect everything. Shut it all down, lights, cameras, locks. Anyone inside would be vulnerable to us,” Amanda said, fiddling with the internals of the box.

“Making it’s easier to get to Riley,” Ash said.

“Wait, lights? How will we see?” Goh said.

“We all have flashlights, don’t we?” Amanda said.

Goh felt like he was in a horror movie.

Lucario quickly found an entry door behind a collection of boulders, the electric locks on it disabled thanks to Amanda. It wasn’t long until they were traveling down a long steep and very dark tunnel into the bowels of Mount Moon. His grip on his flashlight was knuckle whitening. At any moment a grunt could run around the corner and then it wouldn’t be long until this whole place was after them.

“Where are the prison blocks again?” Ash whispered.

“Should be further down. Prisoners were kept in lowest levels,” Sir Aaron said.

“Never let the criminals see the light of day,” Amanda murmured probably to herself.

They had torches.

“Not what I meant.”

The claustrophobic tunnel came to and end as they entered a large gaping chamber. The walls were high and roughly made. Sound bouncing off of them like a ricocheting ball. Every foot step a scream into the dark shadows of the cave. Goh took a deep breath, the air stale and cold in his lungs.

“Hey You!”

Oh, that was not the voice of one of his friends!

Goh spun around, the shine of his flashlight revealing two grunts entering the chamber from a tunnel on the opposite side of the entrance. The Magmar next to them glowed dully against the darkness of the cave wall.

“You can’t be in here!”

“Magmar, pyro ball!”

“Pikachu, catch it in an Electro web!”

There was an explosion from the two moves colliding and suddenly the floor crumbled beneath Goh’s feet. The trainer falling down into the dark with a scream.

Chapter Text

Ash let out a long groan. His limps were going to be covered in aching bruises and stinging scrapes from the fall, but as he came too adrenaline kept the pain away. The cavern around him was pitch black but he didn’t panic. This was not his first time getting trapped in an underground cave, prison or ancient ruin. Looking at you Team plucking Plasma!

With slightly shivery fingers, Ash palmed at the ground around him looking for where his flashlight had fallen. For a while all he found was bits of rubble and a thick layer of dust on the cold stone floor. His index traced over something smooth and very sharp. Ash pulled back with a hiss as his finger burned with sudden pain. Now sitting on his knees Ash cradled his hand, feeling something warm drip down his fingers. Great he cut himself. Ash sighed, figuring that his flashlight had broken when it hit the ground and he had just cut his finger on the shattered glass.

Ash licked the dust off his lips and winced at the flavor of powdered rock and dirt. Bad idea. He coughed.

“Pikachu? Riolu,” Ash whispered.

Something fuzzy next to him twitched and let out a high-pitched sneeze. And the paw of a slightly bigger fuzzy something nudged his other side.

“Goh?” Ash called.

No answer came from the pitch-black room. Ash hummed with displeasure. If Goh was hurt that would make this mission a whole lot harder. If only he had some light, so he could find his friend. He bit his tongue in thought. C’mon Ash, this isn’t your first time in a cave! What did you do last time? Last time he did have a fire type Pokémon with him. Raboot was a fire type, but Ash wasn’t sure if she could produce a steady flame. Charizard’s tail was already burning, so they could see.

Charizard wasn’t here now though.

But he had his phone! Ash reached down to his pocket and…it was empty…His phone had fallen out of it during the cave in. Great, just when he needed modern technology it failed him! And Goh wondered why Ash was confused when told he needed that hunk of plastic and unknown materials.

Sir Aaron didn’t have a phone and he was doing fine…wait…

Ash looked down at where he thought his hand was in the darkness and pondered. What he was about to do would either work, and he’d have light, or it’s would blow up in his face and probably make the whole situation worse.

It was worth the shot.

Ash sat back, and relaxed his shoulders, closing his eyes with a deep breath. Just like how he was taught. He measured his breathing with quiet humming, focusing on the energy within in. A tingly buzzing feeling became noticeable, internally he began willing it towards his wounded hand. The tingle intensified as it swelled in his fingertips. An audible swirling hum joined his own in harmony, and Ash’s peeked through one of his eyes.

In the center of his bloodied palm hovered a spinning ball of glowing fiery blue light. Ash huffed an excited laugh. He did it! His idea didn’t blow up in his face! And even better, now that the room was bathed in blue, almost looking like they were underneath a fish tank, Ash could see. He glanced down, finding Pikachu and Riolu at his sides looking at the aura sphere spinning just above his palm.

The feeling of elation didn’t last long, however. They needed to find the others. Ash looked around taking in the surrounding cavern. Ahead was a long tunnel, the stone walls roughly cut with black wires and shut off lights hooked into the tiny cavities in the ceiling. To his back was a large, towering pile of rubble. A dead end.

Eventually his dark brown eyes zeroed in on a rather hairy rock that was coated with dust. Goh. Ash scrambled to his feet and trekked over to his friend’s side. Falling back onto his knees once close enough to shake the young Pokémon researcher.

“Goh? Goh!” Ash called Pikachu jumping on Goh back to gently prod at him as well.

Goh began to stir with a heavy groan and cough, “Wha-what happened? Are we dead?” He spoke with a crackly voice.

Ash chuckled, “Not yet. Are you okay?”

Goh shifted his hands underneath him and pushed himself up, Pikachu jumping off as soon as straightened his arms.

His friend let out a hiss, “I think so, nothing seems broken.”

Ash nodded, “Where’s Raboot?”

“She jumped back into her pokeball before we fell,” Goh said examining the pokeballs on his belt, “I was a screaming a lot so I must have missed her doing it…where are the others?”

Ash stood up, “My guess, on the other side of that,” He pointed to the giant rubble roadblock.

“Great,” Goh grumbled getting to his own feet, he eventually looked down at the aura sphere in Ash’s hand and murmured, “Okay that is pretty cool.”

“C’mon we need to find Riley, or at least a way to get around this,” Ash said being to walk towards the open tunnel behind them.

Amanda whimpered as she came too.

She didn’t move at first not wanting to possibly aggravate any form of back or spinal injury that usually came with falling like thirty feet into cold hard bed rock. Taking stock of her body, she thankfully didn’t feel any numbness or tingly sensations. Only a soreness that she knew came from a body covered in bruises. Shuffling her limbs didn’t change much either, so slowly Amanda sat up. Oh, yeah, she was going to be sore for a while after a tumble like that.

Hanging her head between her legs and arms propped up on her bent knees, she took a deep breath. She rubbed a hand down her bare face, ridding her skin from the clinginess of the dust…wait…her bare face. Where were her glasses? She took another breath, the air doing little to put the suddenly rapid beat of her heart to rest.

Stay calm. Stay calm. Stay calm. Your Glasses just fell off. It’s fine you’ll find them. You’ll still be able to see. You are not blind.

Filling her lungs with a shaky inhale, and swallowing something sour back down, she opened her eyes…And panic set in once more.

Pitch black surrounded her. She couldn’t even see where her own hands were. She couldn’t see. She couldn’t see. She couldn’t see.

“…go blind…”

No.

“…disgusting broken whore…”

No.

“You’re worthless.”

No!

“It’s your fault.”

“NO!!!!”

Sir Aaron startled awake at the sound of a broken wail. The ground beneath him was hard and grainy, and his hands were scraped on it as he struggled. The world around him lacked any light and lived in black shadow. By habit, he sparked a sphere in his fingers to see. The cavern was flooded with rippling soft light. The echoes of a maidan’s cry were muffled but there.

Master

Sir Aaron looked towards his partner at the call of telepathy. Lucario rested on his knees not too far from the knight’s left side. Pichu oddly perched on top of the aura Pokémon’s head, the mouse’s ears pinned against his fuzzy yellow head. There was a feeling of distress and grief that hung heavy in the air. The knight knew it was not coming from him…but he didn’t know who was in such pain. What was wrong?

Master, are you alright?

Sir Aaron coughed quietly, clearing his throat, “Yes, I’m alright, what’s-”

“Bree!”

Icy eyes immediately darted towards the trilling cry. Umbreon was standing on her hind legs, her front paws pressed against an unstable rock wall. The shadow wielder was whining and clawing at the weeping wall of loose rock. Concern and fear bleeding from her soul.

“What happened?” Sir Aaron said, getting to his feet with calm urgency.

The cave-in separated us from our allies. I can’t not locate the lads, due to the nature of Mount Moon’s stone, but Amanda seemed to be close…and in distress. Umbreon has been trying to get her attention, but her efforts haven’t yielded much.

The knight focused his senses outward, following the output of panic and despair. The negative emotions rippled from the weeping wall. They were his niece’s emotional storm. His niece’s soul reaching out for safety, for anything or anyone. His hands clenched in his fists and his body tensed.

The knight turned to his partner, “Find her. These tunnels should have a way to wherever she is trapped. Find her. I’ll try to reach out to her.”

Lucario nodded, before barking at Umbreon and the shadow wielder removed herself from her post with slight hesitance, but eventually darted deep into the black of the long tunnel behind the group. Lucario started running after her, the aura Pokémon moving with a mission now in mind. Pichu however, surprisingly leaped off the jackal like Pokémon’s head, and skittered back towards the weeping wall.

“You desire to stay?” Sir Aaron queried.

The small mouse nodded, “Pichu.”

Sir Aaron gave a nod in return then stepped towards the wall. He pressed his free palm against the rough boulder that separated him from his niece. He could feel her desperation through the rock. It made his skin break out in gooseflesh as he shivered. Rarely did a user become so destressed that their soul clawed at their brothers’ and sisters’ mind for connection unconsciously. Such a comfort was always given without a request. Amanda, however, had been cutting her soul from the familial link their aura shared. How scared must she be to reach out in panic, and how long had she been ignored to end up like this?

Drawing a deep breath and closing his eyes, Sir Aaron reached out to his niece.

“Amanda?”

Lucario was no stranger to dark caves. Most of his kind usually were born in burrows, though no burrow was ever this deep into the earth. If a pack member were to complete such a feat…well Lucario wouldn’t know what would happen, but he’d secretly be impressed.

Still no matter how deep he was, he was not concerned about finding his way in the pitch black so far away from the moon and sun. While dark, in aura the caves were a gleaming bright sea of blue, with smaller patches of ever more powerful aura in silver. A sky made tunnel marked with day stars. Lucario had no trouble seeing every notch in the wall or pebble on the floor. He could easily run at full speed and dodge every obstacle without any difficulty.

Umbreon had no issues with the rough terrain either. Not that Lucario thought she would. Most shadow wielders were hunters of the night and could easily see in the dark. Though it wasn’t the running that had Lucario concerned for his companion. While a very calm Pokémon in appearance, once more living up the reputation of her kind, Lucario could smell the metallic scent of panic and worry coming off her, and he could see the slight stumble in her running steps.

Her large red eyes glanced back at him, catching his staring.

“Bree Bre Umber (what are you looking at?)”

“Luc Rio (you’re distressed.)”

Umbreon huffed, “Um eon Bree bree (My trainer is currently having a panic attack, while trapped underground in a pitch-black cave. Forgive me if I’m a little stressed.)”

Lucario hummed in thought at that.

“Eon (What was that?)”

“Cari Lu Car (your words show great loyalty, I was not expecting such a virtue from you.)”

“Bree Bree on, (what would make you think that?)”

“Lu cari Car Rio (You just seem rather indifferent to everyone, even your own trainer. You’re connection to her is subtle Sometimes it’s hard to even sense the bond you share. Sense that you even care.)”

Umbreon came to a sudden halt, a threating growl ripping from her throat. The noise was almost feral.

“Bree Umber Bree Eon Bree Umbreon (Do not take my hesitance and fear, as a lack of care, Guardian. You know very little when it comes to me and my trainer. There is nothing in this world I wouldn’t do for Mandy).”

Lucario took a step back, surprised by the shadow wielder’s sudden ferocity. The loyalty and love that bled from her words dripped with truth.

Lucario nodded, “Lu Lu Cari (My apologies, I didn’t realize that you held her in such high regard. I will not be mistaken again.)”

“Bree (I’ll hold you too that.)”

Umbreon turned, her body led by a sharp movement of her head and darted back into the darkness.

“Lu (Mandy?)” Lucario pondered, as he caught up with the shadow wielder.

“Bree Umber Bree (Amanda used to go by that when she was a small child.)”

“Lu Lu Cari (small child, you must have known her long then).”

“Umber Bree (I hatched in her lap; we’ve never been apart.)”

“Lucar Cari Rio (So she raised you, no wonder you’re loyal.)”

“Oen Umber (that’s one of the reasons.”

“Cari lu (and the other?)”

“Umber Umbreon (Mandy saved my life.)”

Eevee cried out in pain as her tiny broken body was thrown across the dirt. Pain laced her limps with every tumble. Soil burrowed deep into her soft fur, while blood from her wounds dyed the brown crimson. She whimpered as she finally came to a stop. Heat lingered in her battered body, as she struggled to breathe. Her stubborn eyes remained shut, against the hot sunlight.

There was a child’s squeal of delight from across the makeshift battlefield.

“Bella stop! You’ve won!” Mandy cried, her voice fearful, and far away.

“Nuh uh! The battle isn’t over until the opponent is knocked down for good! Serviper! Poison Tail!”

Eevee curled up, preparing for another hit. Only for warm arms to wrap around her in a protective embrace.

The normal type never felt the blow, she only heard the scream of agony that came from her trainer as the little girl took the near fatal hit in her place.

“Umbreon Eon Bree (she saved my life that day, and in a way, it cost her everything.)”

“Lu Cari Rio Cari (Such bravery. Perhaps she is more like Master and Ash then she lets on.)”

“Eon Umber (She is, she just isn’t allowed to be most of the time. She cares a lot; she just doesn’t show it anymore. And most people don’t show the same for her.)”

“Lu Car Lu Cari (then we well find her and show her that we care.)”

Umbreon nodded.

Eevee watched as her little girl stumbled to the ground. Though, Mandy wasn’t so little anymore. She was 14, usually tall, beautiful and mature, yet now she was as weak as a newborn. She cried fearful tears into her hands, her palms pressed against her bruised face. Her knees red with cuts from the harsh gravel floor of the forest.

Eevee whimpered and nuzzled against her trainer’s leg and licked at a dark purple bruise on her thigh. Anything to bring her girl comfort. Especially in the wake of betrayal. It hurt to have someone she trusted, someone she loved, turn around and beat her to the ground. Literally in this case. Internally Eevee vowed to make that brat pay for ever laying a hand on her Mandy. Painting her body with bruises and staining her clothes with blood and tears. Not to mention smashing her glasses. That was practically stealing her trainer’s eyes! Even worse than Mandy was abandoned in the middle of the woods!

The normal type looked up at the night sky, the full moon high above in a blanket of clouds and split by the bare branches of the canopy. They needed to get home. Mandy could barely see in the daylight, at nighttime she was blind, and that was her worse fear. They had tried to return before sunset, but with Mandy’s wounds slowing her down they didn’t succeed.

Mandy let out another choking sob, heart broken as much as her body. Eevee growled subtly to herself. She needed to do something. Anything for her girl.

She stepped into a ray of moonlight. The pale glow contorting and curling around her body while a warm energy welled up from inside. Her fur gleamed blue, the fluffy brown morphing into a finer black coat. Her large brown eyes bled into a red, and the world of shadows was now open to her control.

Her transformation complete she nudged her girl gently.

“Veevee?” Mandy croaked, in wonder, “Is that you?”

Now she was big enough for Mandy to lean on. Now she was strong enough to protect her. Now she could see for her. If her trainer was lost in the world of shadows, then Umbreon was happy to become one of them to lead her through the darkness.

Chapter Text

Pi pi pi pi pi pi pi…”

The soles of his sneakers were clomping loudly on the cave floor. Ash held the mini aura sphere steady. Goh was right behind him, puffing as he moved. Pikachu and Riolu were a few steps ahead. The yellow mouse like Pokémon’s cheeks giving tiny sparks, forming crackling light in the shadows of the cavern.

“Do you even know where your going?” Goh panted.

“We’ll have to run into something eventually,” Ash answered.

They made a turn in the cavern and entered a corridor. Ash immediately noticed something different, while there were still electric lines and currently dark lights on the ceilings there were also little metallic things sticking out of one side of the cave wall in an even spaced pattern. Ash slowed to a stop and took a curious look at the unfamiliar object.

It was old, that was for sure. A little metal cone, turned upside down with the tip chopped off, made of metal netting. Like thick prison bars looping in a circle, around tilted metal posts that flourished into spikes at the top. The metal itself was long rusted, almost looking like the dirt and stone it was embedded in. Ash reached a handout to touch the object and a spark of static jolted up his spine as his finger lightly traced the rust.

“Whoa,” Ash breathed, blinking in surprise.

“What?” Goh said, walking up after catching his breath.

“You know that feeling you get when you touch something and get zapped?” Ash asked.

“Yeah,” Goh said.

“Imagine that, except it doesn’t fade away and you now feel the entire mountain buzzing through your skin.”

Goh raised a very confused brow, “Yeah, I don’t know that.”

“Well, that’s what I just got.”

“From touching a hunk of metal in the wall?”

“Another weird aura thing…Goh does this thing look old to you?”

“It’s a rusted torch holder of course it looks old. Useless too with all the lights that were put up.”

“So, then this came before the lights?”

“Probably?”

Ash patted his friend on the back at started to run again, “C’mon we’re close.”

The dark-haired trainer was soon proven right, the cave corridor gave way to only what could be described as that of a prison block. The cave rock was carved into a more rectangular shape, more like a hallway and not a tunnel. On the right side was a wall of doors. Their metal gleamed with fresh polish every time the glow of the mini aura sphere hit them. The bolts around their edges were uniform, clearly machine made. These things were like the lights on the ceiling; brand new.

Ash felt a buzz in the back of his head, and his mouth was suddenly dry. Something was clawing at the edges of his mind, begging to be let in. The young aura user had never felt it before, but he knew what it was instantly.

Riley.

“He’s here, help me find him,” Ash said, not looking at Goh.

Over the recent events, Ash had gotten used to the little pulls or subtle links between his soul and Sir Aaron’s. It was a natural thing that happened between aura users who were either family and living close together. With them being both things, those links forged strongly and quickly. Amanda’s weren’t as strong, hell they were barely there, but that was because she never reached out and shut down and attempts Ash made. Riley’s…even an amateur like Ash could tell it was weak. Really weak.

Each door had a very small, barred window in them, no bigger than a mail slot. They were near the top of the very tall metallic doors and Ash had to bounce on his tip toes to peek through. He had managed to check three of them when Riolu began to bark.

“Ri Ri!”

Ash looked to the baby pokemon, finding Riolu pawing and scratching at a door near the end of the cell block. The pup barking and growling. Red eyes looked at Ash and the trainer knew what was behind that door.

“Over here!” Ash called, catching Goh’s attention.

The two boys ran over to the door. Ash gripped the bars over the window and shook the door. The heavy thing barely shifted. With furrowed brows Ash looked over the rest of the door.

“Here,” Goh said, pointing at a keypad, “Lock’s electrical. We’re not getting in there with the power out.”

Ash let out a very quiet growl. He was getting in that door, black out or not, and in the most serious tone he had used in a long time, Ash said, “Goh, back up.”

The blue-eyed trainer, thankfully, listened taking a few slow steps back. Probably stunned by his usually laid-back research partner suddenly getting antsy.

Ash looked at Pikachu, the mouse Pokémon stood at his side ears perched high and ready for a command, “Iron Tail.”

With a mighty cry Pikachu leaped from where he stood, tail gleaming with silvery light. The attack slammed into metal barrier, smashing the lock and shoved the door open with a loud bang and screech. New as they may be no one took care to grease the hinges.

Ash darted into the room and swallowed down bile at the sight inside. Riley was in there alright, but he was far from okay. His cousin (his family, how dare anyone do this too…) was strung up like a water-type. Riley hung limply from the shackles on his wrists, his eyes closed and face pale. The chains holding him were taunt as they shown in the glow of the mini aura sphere

“Riley,” Ash whispered.

“Pikapi Pika!”

Ash looked at his partner’s call. Pikachu was dashing deeper into the room. Peeking behind Riley, to Ash’s ever-growing horror, he found a still lump of blue and black fur inside of a cage at the back of the cell. Riley’s Lucario.

“Pikachu get him out there, Goh help me,” Ash said.

Ash grabbed the shackles with one hand, holding the aura sphere close with the other. He quickly found what looked like a keyhole.

He glanced to Goh, “Look around there’s got to be something to open this.”

Goh gave a quick nod and left with a queasy expression on his face. Ash couldn’t blame his friend, if Riley looked bad from far off, he looked almost dead up close. His skin was paper pale, and painted on it was a cavass filled with purple blooming bruises and rusty colored scabs, along with a heavy dusting of dirt. Rubble was stuck in the nest of wild black hair, even more unruly than usual. His hat and coat were missing, while his pants and turtleneck were dirty and covered in rips. The only reasons that Ash knew his cousin was alive was the presence of Riley’s soul and the sound of shallow breaths.

The dark-haired trainer, began to gently pat Riley’s on the least bruised cheek, “Riley? Riley?”

There was a crash from the other side of the prison cell, and Ash spared enough of a glance to see Pikachu and Riolu to break through the cage, freeing Riley’s Lucario. The aura Pokémon stirred as the Rioly began to paw at him.

Riley let out a groan, and Ash sighed in relief as the lagoon blue eyes began to flicker open.

“Riley? Riley!”

The elder user shivered and opened his eyes, while they were hazy they still locked on to Ash if the glimmer of surprise was anything to go by. Riley let out a noise of confusion and drew in a sharp breath.

“Hey it’s okay. It’s me. It’s Ash.”

“Ash…?” Riley rasped. Oh, Ash really wished he had a water bottle on him.

“Yep, that’s right.”

Riley coughed, “You got taller.”

Ash snorted, “Well, it’s been over a year. Don’t worry we’re getting you out of here.”

Riley shook his head visibly swallowing, “No,” he croaked, “No you need to get out of here. They’re looking for you.”

“I know. They tried, I got away. We need to get you down. Did they leave a key anywhere?” Ash started to examine the shackles more.

“No,” Riley swallowed, “Ash, is there anyone else here?”

“Don’t worry, that’s just Goh he’s my friend-”

“No. My sister, the woman who put in here said they were going after her.”

“Don’t worry, Amanda is fine.”

“You found her?”

“She’s here, man. We wouldn’t have found you without her. She’s a badass.”

“Crazy you mean,” Goh cut in.

“Hey, she saved your life,” Ash said.

“And while I’m forever grateful, I still think she’s a little crazy. She must be if she’s related to you. She broke into a terrorist base. Twice,” Goh said.

“She also jumped into a raging river, temporally going deaf, to save you,” Ash said.

“I like said I’m grateful-”

“Deaf?” Riley said with a confused and concerned tone.

“Don’t worry her hearing aids just got waterlogged,” Ash comforted.

Riley shook his head, “Mandy isn’t deaf. She doesn’t use hearing aids.”

She was trapped. The black shadows were swirling around her. They slipped down her throat and into her lungs choking her with sobs. Voices, familiar and painful, were wailing all around her. Their accusations bashed her brain around the inside of her skull. She wanted to rip her skin off. She wanted to crash her head in. Free herself from everything.

But most of all, she wanted to see.

She can still smell the sterile air, feel the rough sheets of cot, taste the bile in her throat as the Doctor told her parents her fate as a useless sack of flesh. It wasn’t enough to take her ears away, no life had to pull a cruel trick and make her eyes doomed to one day fail as well.

Amanda thought she’d have more time. More time in the light, more time to prove that she’d be worth caring for once she was useless. That she wasn’t damaged. That she wasn’t going to hurt her brothers.

She had clearly failed. Her eyes were gone, and no doubt mother would cut her off from insurance and then she’d be without hearing aids. Now she was worthless and alone. Amanda never wanted to be alone. She was just always left alone and became used to solitude. First it was her brother, then her friends, then her father. Mother was one slip up away from leaving and then taking the twins with her.

A choking sob erupted from her throat and hot tears dripped down her cheeks. Amanda never wanted to be alone.

Something touched her. Not physically. No, she’d have slapped them if someone did that. This was a different type of touch. A soft flutter in the back of her mind, like a phantom running their fingers through her hair. It was comforting, pulling her out of her spiral. Still her nerves remained frayed, she felt herself shaking. Something inside was screaming at her to reach out in turn. Let the phantom pass the gate.

Amanda tried to resist, Arceus did she try. Any time she reached out before her hand had always been bitten. Forced away.

“Amanda?”

The voice echoed throughout her mind silencing all the others. A hand reaching out to her, but something held her back from taking.

“Amanda? Please.”

She took it. Metaphorical hand gripped metaphorical hand and suddenly her cold soul was enveloped with warm embrace. A feeling of foreign safety washed over her. Amanda never thought she’d feel something like it again.

“Uncle Aaron?” She thought.

“Yes. Amanda it’s me. Are you hurt?”

“No…just just bumps and bruises.”

“Are you alright?”

“I’m not injured…”

“You know that’s not what I meant.”

Amanda bit her lip, letting blood coat her tongue as another tear trickled down her cheek.

“Amanda please, let me help you.”

Her chest spasmed with a another sob, “I-I can’t see….It’s dark and I-I lost my glasses.”

“Alright, it’s going to be alright, Amanda. Lucario and Umbreon are trying to get to you. In the meantime I need you too listen to me.”

“Why?”

“I have a way to help you see, but you need to do exactly as I say, alright?”

Amanda took a shuttering breath, sending her agreement through the newly forged mental link.

“You’re going to be alright. Now I need you to close your eyes.”

“Are you nuts, the problem is I can’t see! Closing my eyes is counterproductive don’t you think?”

“I need you to trust me Amanda, it’s going to be alright. Now close your eyes.”

Amanda took a deep breath, letting her heavy lids fall, thickening the darkness around her. Fear spiked her heart rate, but the warm blanket around her soul squeezed her tenderly in response.

“You’re alright. You need to breathe, Amanda.”

Her lungs opened, pulling a cold gasp inside of them. The drum in her chest eased in pace.

“That’s it, you’re alright. Calm down. Now reach out with your mind. Feel the ground.”

The dusty gravel of the rough cave floor rested beneath her fingertips.

“Feel the pulse of your heart.”

The thumbing in her chest is growing steady.

“Hear the cavern’s echoes.”

The subtle hum slipped from her throat before she could stop it. It was quiet, and weak. The melody shattered a glass case inside of her heart that she swore never to open. It had been far too long since she touched a song. It was a useless talent, and what talent could she have now that her ears were shot.

Still, it worked, her panic was settled, and the soft song echoed off the cave walls and rubble.

“Now see.”

As if a switch was flicked, and the world of darkness bloomed into a fantasy of blue shades. She could see. Her eyes might have been closed but the vision in front of her was clearer than a scene in the brightest daylight. The walls gleamed, revealing every crevasse and dent in the stone. The rubble on the floor down to the smallest pebble was screaming in front of her face. Looking down at herself, she found a body of flaring blue, the hue brighter then the still stone around her. Okay that was a little weirder to look at then the rocks.

Out of the corner of her sight was a thinner shape. Two sticks attached to a pair of thin hollow squares. The gleam of hope in her soul was visible now, but Amanda paid no mind to it as she reached out and pluck her glasses from the cave floor. She took great comfort in the light weight of the frames resting on her nose and ears.

From there she found her backpack. One of the straps had been ripped but it was still intact. It wasn’t until the grip of a flashlight was in her palm did she pull from the blue world back into the physical one. Flicking on the torch as she opened her eyes.

“Are you alright?”

Amanda smiled, “Yes.”

“BREE!!!”

“Umbreon? I’m over here!”

Umbreon was in her arms, licking her face. She was alright. She could see.

Sir Aaron sighed in relief once he felt Amanda’s panic calm. The links between their souls and minds were made stronger that day. Not that he expected her to open up completely. She did with draw again once she calmed down. However, the walls that she had so heavily re-enforced hadn’t been restored to their full strength. This was a step forward, as terrifying as it was for her. Sir Aaron was perfectly fine with going at her pace.

Meaning, the knight certainly didn’t expect the sudden and quick embrace that she gave once they were re-united. While Ash was always open to physical contact, Amanda had avoided it. Yet, upon reuniting she hugged him.

“Thank you,” she whispered before pulling back and her focus was once more on the mission at hand, “Any idea where the boys landed.”

Sir Aaron shook his head, “Not a clue. And the mountain stone is too charged for us to find them.”

“Do we have signal down here?” Amanda said.

“Signal?”

“Oh, wait you don’t have a phone right,” Amanda said, pulling her little device out of her damaged satchel, “C’mon c’mon pick up.”

“Hello? Amanda? Please tell me your not dead.”

“We’re not dead, Goh.”

Alright, now Sir Aaron was beginning to see just how useful these devices were. Not that he doubted their use, it’s was just he didn’t understand how attached the children (Not Ash) were of them.

“We’re alright,” Sir Aaron said.

“Oh, good you’re both together. Don’t worry Ash is with me…Wait why didn’t you call him?”

“He never gave me his number,” Amanda said.

“He never gave you-? Ash! Why didn’t you give Amanda your phone number?” “I don’t know my phone number!” “Well, that answers that.”

“Where are you?” Amanda said.

“We kind of wandered aimlessly, and stumbled on the prison block. We found Riley.”

“You found him,” Amanda murmured, almost in disbelief.

“Is he alright?” Sir Aaron asked.

“Uhm…I don’t think he’s hurt bad, but he’s kind of in a half-asleep state. Like if we talk to him, he’s engaging but otherwise he’s out. Pikachu broke the chains on him, but we can’t get the cuffs off.”

“Wait, Goh,” Sir Aaron said with an urgent tone, “The cuffs on Riley do they have carvings on them?”

“Uh L-let me check…” There was a muffled sound of movement and murmurs, “Yeah, it looks like some of them are swirly marks, others are just a bunch of slashes, and an Arceus’ Ring.”

Sir Aaron closed his eyes in a regretful wince. He knew exactly what was causing his nephew’s suffering.

“What is it?” Amanda questioned.

“The cuffs are likely aura drainers. The Guild made them weaken and imprison traitors or rogue users. They cut the user off from outer sources of aura and slowly drain their own.”

“How does something like a set of shiny metal bracelets do all that?”

“I don’t know the metal smiths, kept their secrets underneath lock and key,” Sir Aaron shook his head, “You need to get the cuffs off of him.”

“We tried. Searched the whole cell, we can’t find any type of Key.”

“We’re wasting time,” Amanda cut in, “Goh do you have any tracking on your phone? If we can link up, we can find each other.”

Goh kept his eyes firmly, focused on the phone in his hand. Getting out of this stupid tunnel was the most important thing. Still, that didn’t mean every now and again his attention wavered over towards the party just behind him.

Riley’s Lucario seemed alright. A little unsteady on his paws. His fur dirty, and body littered with half-healed wounds. Exhaustion pulling on the Pokémon’s limbs. However, he was able to walk and seemed to be well aware of his surroundings.

The same couldn’t be said of his trainer. Riley was on his feet, but Ash was the only thing keeping him there. The young man was one strong breeze from collapsing. Goh didn’t want to think about what had happened to Riley during the weeks of imprisonment. For some reason he was certain that Team Rocket weren’t very good hosts. The blue-eyed trainer bit his lip and looked back to his phone, intent on getting to the surface and freedom.

“How did you learn to do that?” Riley croaked after a while.

Goh didn’t look back, but he kept his ears open, if Riley was talking, he was becoming more aware. Which was a good thing.

“Oh this,” Ash said, Goh fairly certain that his friend and his cousin were talking about the tiny aura sphere Ash was using as a flashlight.

“Well, it took me a while. This was actually the first time I did without blowing something up. Only took me a few weeks.”

Riley let out an amused giggle, “That’s impressive. I still can’t make a stable one.”

“You can’t?”

“It’s not for a lack of trying. How did you learn?”

“Found a teacher.”

“…that’s…that’s not possible. I searched for a decade. There’s nothing left other than some old legends and pottery.”

“Well, hate to tell you this Riley, but you missed something.”

Goh huffed a laugh at Ash’s blunt statement. Yeah, Riley missed something. A whole fucking guy and a majestic, abandoned temple. Not that Goh would say such a thing out loud while Riley was almost half-dead.

His phone vibrated in his hand, and a large smile grew on Goh’s face as he focused on the screen. The others were just ahead of them! Yes!

“C’mon we’re almost there!” Goh said, starting to pick up the pace.

“Goh wait look out!” Ash suddenly said.

“SAUR!!!!!!”

There was a sudden shock wave. And Goh was sent tumbling to the floor. His head was smacked with something hard, ringing his brain and making his mouth taste like blood. With hazy vision, the blue-eye trainer looked up to find a Venusaur standing in the middle of. At first, he was confused. They weren’t a cave dwelling Pokémon. He raised his flashlight, the white glow hit the grass type, and it did nothing. A dark shadowy smog was surrounding the Grass type. In fact, the Pokémon themselves looked to be in a daze. Their eyes blacked out with whitened pupils. What on earth?

“Goh!” Someone called, his shoulders were gripped and his was gently pulled back to his feet.

He glanced back, finding Amanda pulling up. Oh, they found the others he’d be more excited if he was freaked out and probably concussed.

“What is that?” Amanda said.

“A Venusuar?” Ash suggested from the back of the group, though he sounded unsure.

“No, it’s not,” Sir Aaron said right behind him and Amanda.

A chilling smooth cackle filled the room. A shiver ran up Goh’s spine. He knew that laugh. He didn’t like that laugh.

“Well, well brother. You’re not as ignorant as I believed you to be,” A white haired human creeped out from behind the corrupted grass type, and Goh swallowed bile.

“Anwir what have you done?” Sir Aaron said.

“Oh this?” Anwir caressed the Venusaur’s face, making the Pokémon shiver, “This is just a little something I learned during my travels. Taking full control of a living being’s will. Very useful tool. Doesn’t work on humans as well as it works on Pokémon sadly. Our niece is a shining example of that.”

“What are you doing here?” Ash said.

“Oh well, in case you haven’t noticed, there is a horrid band of thieves on the loose. As an enforcer it’s my job to stop them,” Anwir purred, “You can imagine my shock, to learn that such thieves were my own flesh and blood.”

“We aren’t family if that’s what’s you implying,” Amanda said.

“Oh, you wound me, dear niece,” Anwir said.

“That’s the point, now if you’re not going to kill us, we ought to be going,” Amanda said.

“About that, I can’t let you leave, I’m afraid,” Anwir said, “We still need you after all.”

“Yeah, that’s not happening,” Ash said.

“Must you make it difficult?” Anwir said, “Oh no matter. You can kill the boy, but leave users alive,” Anwir snapped his fingers, and the Venusaur lunged.

Goh felt himself jerked behind Amanda and a crash echoed through out the cavern. Only it wasn’t on their side. Goh looked passed Amanda’s shoulders; his eyes widened at the sight of the corrupted grass type lying limp on the other side of the cave.

In the center of the standoff, floated a Pokémon of pale purple, his long tail thrashed with anger. His eyes were glowing a bright white. Goh choked.

“Threatening these humans, was a bad play.”

Chapter Text

Mewtwo was an imposing force. Sometimes Ash forgot this, even if he was once at the receiving end of the ultimate Pokémon’s attacks. But when he was reminded, boy was he reminded.

The cave around them shook, as both dark user and man-made Pokémon clashed in an explosive fresco of psychic and auratic power. When one would attack the other, the other would dodge. Ash looked on in awe, Riley’s weight on his shoulder all but forgotten. A vine whip attack took advantage of his stunned nature and snagged his ankle. His feet were pulled out of him and suddenly Ash was being yanked across the room.

Ash let out a yelp when he went down. Scraping the dirt floor as he was dragged, dust and soil got into every crevasse between his skin and clothing. He could hear his friends and family scream as the venusuar, they all forgot about, pulled the dark-haired trainer across the room.

“Pikapi!”

Ash barely had time to blink, when his electric mouse leaped over his head. Pikachu’s body was alit with a thin veil of white glow. A quick attack. His partner’s tail gained a shiny sheen of metallic nature and with a war cry sliced the vine off Ash’s leg. Freeing the dark-haired trainer. Pikachu landed gently on Ash’s belly, his big black eyes looking on in worry.

“I’m okay, good job,” Ash said, scrambling to his feet.

The dark-haired trainer looked back at his friends and family. Riley had crumbled to the ground without Ash holding him up. Goh and Riley’s Lucario were tended to him. Amanda was looking at her phone, no doubt trying to find a way out of here. Sir Aaron was looking at him, silently asking if he was alright. Upon Ash nodding, the knight’s gaze went back to the battle unfolding before them.

The Venusaur growled and Ash suddenly remembered the fight he had found himself in. Pikachu leaped out of his arms and took a defensive stance in front of him. Ash grunted in determination. They were going to have to fight their way out of here. Well, challenge accepted.

Both human and pokemon entered the fight with the same amount of vigor, strength and determination that they did every battle. All of it! Every ounce of Ash’s heart and soul was put into this, because this wasn’t a tournament, no trophy or title was on the line, it was his family and friend’s live, and there was no more important fight to give you’re all in to. Blows were traded and moves clashed at lighting speed.

Throughout the fight, Ash couldn’t help but notice that the Venusaur’s eyes never changed. They remained silver dollar moons in the middle of an empty inky void. Anwir never let go of his control over the grass type. All while still facing Mewtwo head on. How was he doing that? How was he controlling the soul of this Pokémon at the same time not being killed by one of the most powerful Pokémon in the world. And if he could do that?

What else could he control?

Venasuar let out another earth-shaking roar, raddling the walls…and…A cold chill ran down Ash’s spine, and he whirled around, looking at the wall behind his family.

“Get out of the way!”

For once in his life, Sir Aaron was frozen in his place.

His eyes, ears and even aura sense were currently being overloaded with fight happening in front of him and the rock of mount moon. The Knight was trying to keep an eye on each of his charges. Lucario was just as tense as he was. pacing between them and the rest of the conflict. Amanda trying to find a way out of the tunnels. Ash had found himself in a fight with the grass titan. Goh was making sure that Riley wasn’t perishing on the impromptu battlefield. Riolu doing the same for his nephew’s auratic partner.

Sir Aaron looked over his nephew with worry. The young man was in worse condition then the knight had thought. Skin pale and mulled with bruises and small cuts. Lagoon blue eyes almost glazed over with an exhaustion that could only be described as close to death. The knight knew he could heal Riley as long as there were no internal wounds but first, they had to get out of here.

There was a heavy rumbling noise and soil and pebbles rained down on them from above. Amanda let out a rather explosive sneeze when the dirty dust hit her nose. Something about the sound coming from the walls made his stomach coil.

“Get out of the way!”

The call of the young lad was quickly drowned out by the wall behind them cracking and falling away. Dust and rubble spilled onto them, as Sir Aaron began to push the group out of the way of the large, corrupted soul what was tunneling towards them. From the wreaked wall burst fourth a large rock wielder in snake form.

“An Onix?!” Goh shrieked.

The Rock wielder reared up as tall as the ceiling allowed. A low guttural growl bubbled from the stoney maw. A sound which quickly echoed throughout the cavern as more and more Onix broke out of the walls adding to the chaos. Despite the growing mayhem, Sir Aaron focused on one thing. Their eyes. Each set was exactly the same. Their whites were dyed black, with clouded irises and pupils. A glazed appearance settled in them. He couldn’t see into their souls, for their spirits were no longer theirs.

With a wave of battle cries, the stone wielders began their assault. Lucario and Umbreon were quick to jump into the fray with Sir Aaron raising a shield to put a barrier between the attack and the children. They held back the force of Onix, best they could, and quickly they were joined by Roserade and Pichu. However, while the knight had great faith in the Pokémon’s skill, they couldn’t last forever, especially with the vast numbers of their foes’ forces.

Sir Aaron’s mind cycle through plans and battle tactics. He needed a plan. The most obvious one being cutting off the serpent’s head, and by that he didn’t mean the Onix. It wasn’t their fault they were being controlled. Anwir was the one making them fight. Take him out. Cut off the head. And everything would fall apart. But the currently the knight was stuck, if the aura shield were to fall, and the onix break through the blockage the other Pokémon had set up…

“Lu.”

The knight looked toward the noise, surprise filling his body at the sight of the young Lucario. Wounds littering the pelt of blue and black fur, yet he stood tall in defiance of the pain. An understanding was shared between Sir Aaron and his nephew’s partner.

“You’ll hold up the shield?”

“Lu” The aura Pokémon gave a single nod.

The shield was passed from hand to paw, and in that small flicker between the hand over Sir Aaron stepped beyond the protection of the gleam blue veil. The feeling of a warm hilt in his palm gave him much comfort in the discourse surrounding him. He glanced down, seeing a blade forged of his own soul in his grasp.

Sir Aaron?

“Protect the children,” The knight ordered.

Lucario nodded, returning his attention to the opponent in from of him.

Sir Aarorn darted through the chaos, his blade clashing against stone as he warred away stray Onixs’ attacks, looking for a clear shot at the head. And when he found it, he acted. Anwir shoved Mewtwo away with a title wave of poisoned power, the Pokémon steadied himself quickly, but Sir Aaron acted first. The knight raised his soul blade over his head and swung down from the shoulder. A harsh hum broke from the energy blade, and a shockwave echoed from it. The wave of blue clapped through the cavern and struck the dark user, forcing him back and into the ground.

The wild Pokémon suddenly stilled, coming to a shivering halt before they collapsed in exhausted heaps, the chains on their souls finally cut.

Sir Aaron turned to Mewtwo, “Get the others out of here!”

“Sir Aaron?” Ash called in confusion.

“Go! I’ll handle this!”

Mewtwo set the work quickly, flying over to Ash, hooking the lad be the strap of his satchel and dragging him towards the others huddled in the back of the cave. Sir Aaron watched with a sense of relief Mewtwo warped them all away in a flash of white light. The relief was not long lasting, however.

“Well played brother,” Anwir crooned, picking himself up from the ground a shroud of corrupt smog surrounding him, “Taking advantage of my weakest point.”

“You shouldn’t make it so obvious,” Sir Aaron said.

“It would always be obvious to you. Top of the class, as you were,” Anwir dusted off rubble on the shoulder of his coat.

“I may have been once, though it seems as if we’ve both outgrown those lessons.”

“Yet only I have truly evolved. You’re still the loyal lap dog that you’ve always been. Following every order instruction you were given. You’re weak of mind Aaron.”

“Obeying your masters are not weakness.”

“The blind can see the truth easier than you.”

“The truth? You wish to speak of the truth? The truth is that you betrayed our people and ways. The truth is that you turned to darkness rather than light…”

“Save me your heroic speech, it won’t change things. We’ve chosen our sides, brother. Clearly, I’m on the one who will take control of this world,” Anwir gestured to the heaps of fainted Pokémon that laid scattered throughout the cavern.

“How did you manage this carnage? None of our masters spoke of this dark power to us,” Sir Aaron found curiosity taking his tongue.

“Oh, you like it?” Anwir chuckled, summoning a spinning sphere of shadows in his palm, “No master taught me this, in fact they tried to stop me. After all their morals and beliefs stopped them from ever uttering such practices. They blinded themselves to the potential one has once they have nothing holding them back. It took time, but eventually I learned to impose my will on others. Taking control.”

“Anwir such tactics were forbidden for a reason.”

“That was just to control us further. They never told us the truth, about anything.”

“Arceus help you brother.”

Anwir scoffed, a dark blade forming in his grasp, “He abandoned me long ago.”

The dark user dashed forward with a battle cry ripping from his throat. The dark blade was raised high and swung down hard. A blast of excess energy thrashed throughout the cavern, and the black blade clashed with blue. Bringing the duel to a start.

Quickly the two users fell into practiced roles as the fight continued. Brother vs brother. Knight vs knight. It was a scene they had played in for all their lives. Only now this was no sparing match, the swords were not made of old oak wood, and the atmosphere was no longer of childish laughter. Only of bloodlust and anger.

Anwir was stronger than Sir Aaron remembered. The power that wafted off of the dark blade, making the knight’s vision cut out and stomach twist, every time the swords struck one another. His younger brother was more aggressive with his arms, surer with his footsteps. He’d attack more than defend, like that of a predator with its meal in sight. Still, that didn’t mean Sir Aaron wasn’t unprepared. His own movements were fluid, blocking and parrying each assault with practiced ease.

Anwir’s corrupted blade plunged forward. Sir Aaron barely managed to slip to the side, and out of the thrust’s range. The knight shot out a hand, fingers clasping over Anwir’s wrist, squeezing it. The joint was easily manipulated, the blackened sword dissipating at the unexpected touch. Sir Aaron yanked his brother to the side, before letting go and dropping to the ground himself, throwing out a leg and tripping the dark user.

The younger brother only managed to roll on to his back, when Sir Aaron pressed a boot into Anwir’s chest and held a glowing blue blade to his throat. The dark user snarled, breathing harshly against the pressure pinning him down.

“Why do you hesitate? Do it. End this. Kill me,” Anwir chuckled smirking, “Unless you can’t.”

“Yield,” Sir Aaron swallowed.

“I’m afraid I can’t.”

In one drastic and unexpected, Anwir raised a hand and unleashed a power wave of darkness. It threw Sir Aaron back, the knight tumbling into the ground with cloud of dust and heavy groan. He tasted blood in this mouth and his teeth ached, but there was little time to dwell on it. A heavy rumble sent a shiver up his spine. Sir Aaron looked up and to his horror, the knight bore witness to the ceiling above cracking like thin glass as another dark wave was blasted at it.

“Are you mad?!” Sir Aaron screamed over the cavern destabilizing, “You’ll kill us both!”

“Perhaps you shall perish brother, but I am beyond such trival worries,” Anwir said fading into the shadows and dust storms that were quickly consuming the cave.

Sir Aaron for a moment searched for his younger brother amongst the chaos, but soon his lungs were flooded with freshly loose soil, and his own survival became more important. He was blinded by the impending cave-in. Dust in his eyes and rubble bouncing off of his body, no doubt forming fresh bruises. The knight continued to stumble near blind through the chaos, until a strong grip seized his shoulder, and he was pulled out of the collapse in a flash of white light.

Chapter Text

“How is he?” Sir Aaron asked.

His nephew laid stretched out on the RV’s bed, eyes closed and unaware of the surrounding world. The wounds that marked the younger man skin weren’t severe, but they were extensive. Bruises that ranged from fresh violet to molding green. Exhaustion colored the flesh underneath his eyes. Small slices of red cut into soft pale tissue in a random pattern. The knight wasn’t surprised that Riley blacked out the moment they were out of danger.

“Could be better,” Amanda murmured from where she sat patching the worst of the cuts with a form of sticky modern wrappings.

Sir Aaron reached out his hand and griped his nephew’s bruised knuckles. The Knight’s eyes narrowed at the cuffs still on Riley’s wrist. The metal was old, but clearly still in working condition. The younger man’s soul flickered where it should have flared, shackles cutting his aura off from the rest. Weakening it. Those shackles were forged to keep people safe, however now they only appeared to be torture devices. He gently gripped the edges of the cuff around his nephew’s left wrist with his fingertips. Tongue tip peeking through his lips, the knight set a strong but thin string of aura between his fingers. A harsh shriek echoed from the cuff before the metal warped and snapped, widening the ring enough to slip it off Riley’s hand.

“Okay that’s cool,” Amanda said, as Sir Aaron repeated the action with the second cuff.

“He’ll heal with these off of him,” Sir Aaron said, already noticing some of the stress lines on Riley’s face loosening.

“What were they even doing to him?” Amanda said, examining the runes carved into the broken metal.

“Draining him, cutting his soul off from the rest of the world.”

“So bad things?”

“He’ll recover.”

“Good. Cause it’s my head if he dies,” She closed up her healer kit and stalked out of the bedroom.

Sir Aaron followed her shutting off the light as he went. Running a hand through his recently washed hair, he looked at Amanda checking over Riley’s Lucario. The aura Pokémon curled up on the sofa with Umbreon. His wounds were also wrapped. A blue tail started to thump against the cushions with excitement, and a smile in the black snout.

“How are you doing buddy?” Amanda said, sitting on the couch’s edge with a look of genuine joy.

Riley’s Lucario yipped, leaping towards Amanda with lazily outstretched arms. He latched onto her middle, nuzzling her with his head. Amanda huffed, reaching out to scratch the fur between the aura Pokémon’s long ears and dreadlocks.

“I missed you too,” Amanda said.

Sir Aaron smiled at the scene before exiting the RV to meet with the lads. Goh was tapping on his phone, while Ash laid on the ground, splayed out like a staryu, seemingly half asleep. Pikachu, Pichu and Riolu were all running around entertaining themselves. Lucario standing as a watchman a little bit away from the group.

“Is Riley, okay?” Ash asked, not picking up more than his head.

“He’ll recover,” Sir Aaron said.

“So, he’s going better than us,” Goh grumbled.

“Goh?” Ash asked picking up on his friend’s unpleased tone.

“Professor Cerise said there was a break in at the lab last night. Someone tried to get into the files, and security footage,” Goh said, pressing a palm into his face.

“Did they get anything?” Amanda asked, finally joining them, shutting the RV door behind her.

“No, but they got close, and messed up the system pretty bad, Ren’s pissed,” Goh said.

“Well, makes sense Rocket would retaliate,” Amanda sighed, “We just hit them pretty hard, by taking their only aura user in custody back.”

“We can’t go back to the lab, can we?” Ash said.

“Hell no. That’s like walking into a trap,” Amanda said, “Trust someone who had to vanish off the grid not even a few months ago. They’re going to be tracking you down by looking at every bit of information about you they can get. We need to sever all ties with the lab and Vermillion city, at least for now.”

“Can we even do that?” Goh asked, “Professor Cerise has been funding this whole operation from the start. How will we travel? Or get supplies.”

“Don’t you two get paycheck for your research-fellowships?” Amanda said.

“Yes, but it’s not enough for this,” Goh said, “Why don’t you call your mom? She could help.”

“She can’t.”

“Why not?” Ash said.

“She just can’t okay!” Amanda snapped.

“Alright,” Sir Aaron stepped in, “We can argue about this subject later, for now we need a place to rest for the night.”

A quick quiet fell beyond the crowd, as they considered the few options they had.

“Amanda how far can you drive us?” Ash asked.

Amanda shrugged unsure, “I got half a tank left, maybe 250 miles?”

“Think that could get us to Pallet town?”

Riley was expecting to wake up with a splitting headache.

Seriously, living like a strung up magikarp was not an easy lifestyle. Especially, with the creepy guy who kept screaming at him about keys. They had his coat! They had his cabin keys already! He tried to tell them that, but it didn’t end well for him.

So, when he woke up with only a mild pain behind his eyes, and something soft underneath him, it was rather surprising. His eyes pinched against the lights as they fluttered open. Lights? Where did the lights come from? His cell was completely pitch black at best. Eventually haze faded and his vision cleared. To his shock, Riley was currently laid out on a couch in what looked like a family’s house’s living room. Okay, what did he miss?

Looking around confusedly, he shifted his hands, pressing against the plush cushions to sit up…and oh his shoulders did not like that one bit. Soreness erupted from the joints, in a burning dance. Riley hissed through his teeth at the feeling but pushed through in it, shifting himself backwards to lean against the couch arm. Whoever found him took great care in his recovery. His clothes had been swapped for a clean soft grey T-shirt and black sweatpants. Along with setting him up on a makeshift bed, they had cleaned and patched up the worst of the cuts. Perhaps he should be more concerned about being kidnapped for a second time, but this was already much better treatment then the last time, so he wasn’t too concerned.

Something soft and fluffy stirred at his feet. Riley looked down and sighed in relief. Lucario was curled up into a ball at his feet. His tail twitched as the Pokémon dozed. Lagoon blue eyes drifted to the floor next to the couch with a puzzled expression. An umbreon laid there on the plain rug. Their red eyes looked right at Riley with a calm expression. At first, he believed this was simply the homeowners’ Pokemon, but those eyes. There was something familiar in those eyes. If they were brown rather then red…

“Veevee?” Riley murmured in surprise.

His pondering was proven right. The umbreon’s ears perked up and her tail gave a small, pleased flick. Black slim legs propped the dark type, and she gently pranced over to where he laid. A cold nose nudged at his hand and Riley couldn’t resist reaching out and petting the ebony head.

“You grew up,” Riley murmured, earning a pleased squeak from Umbreon.

“She’s not the only one,” A vaguely familiar voice spoke from far away.

Riley nearly jumped at the voice. His lagoon blue eyes darted over to the attached kitchen nook, and his breath stilled when he saw just who was sitting at the breakfast table.

She really changed. The image of his sister, a little girl with wild hair and bright grey eyes, was slowly erased as he took in the vision of her grown-up. Her hair was cut shorter than he remembered and had cyan dyed streaks running through it. The wild nature of it was on full display, rather than the pigtails mother used to dress her in. The dirty jean overalls and dresses were traded out for black jean pants, ebony leather jacket and navy colored shirt. Along with a set of blue metal rimmed glasses, and a face full of makeup.

Never in Riley’s life did he think his sister would embrace the goth esthetic, but he wasn’t going to stop her from expressing herself. She really did grow up to be beautiful.

“Mandy,” Riley breathed, a jolt of excitement in his heart.

“Riley,” She returned bluntly.

“I-I…it’s been so long…”

“Yeah, thirteen years is a long time,” Amanda said, before taking a sip from the mug on the table in front of her, “Don’t worry you’re still taller than me if you and uncle look identical down to the genome.”

Riley’s brows furrowed at that. Uncle? Both of his parents were only children.

A chuckling came from the nearby staircase, drawing attention towards it, “I believe she’s referring to me.”

If Riley’s eyes blew any wider, they would pop out of his head. Descending the stairs was a face he had only seen in two places. The mirror and really old paintings. Now this couldn’t be his reflection since that was impossible. However, the only other option…

“The idiots still asleep?” Mandy asked, before noticing a small yellow mouse trying to crawl into her mug, “Hey, get out of there coffee is not for you,” She scuffed the disgruntled Pichu and snatched her mug away.

“Only Goh is, Ash is getting dressed, and Madam Delia will join us soon, and how the jest of insulting them is amusing still escapes me.”

There was only one explanation for this.

“I’m still drugged, aren’t I?” Riley groaned rubbing his eyes with the palm of his hands.

“They drugged you?” Mandy asked.

Riley opened his mouth but didn’t get to answer, as suddenly he was shoved over with and excited hug by a teenager who bolted down the stairs faster than anyone could react.

“You’re OKAY!” Ash screamed with joy.

“Pi pika chu!”

Riley huffed a pained laugh, “Hello Ash…You’ve gotten bigger.”

“Finally got my growth spurt,” Ash smiled, “Are you okay?”

“Little sore,” Riley winced, and Ash backed off…thought there was little relief as all the shouting woke up Lucario and suddenly Riley’s lap was filled with a very happy bipedal puppy dog who was too old these shenanigans.

Ash ran off to the kitchen, leaving Riley with a deadman.

“Are you well?”

His tongue was suddenly stuck to the roof of his mouth. Just don’t say anything stupid Riley.

“Aren’t you dead?” Riley squeaked, and his inner voice slapped their own face.

Mandy snorted, “His death was greatly exaggerated,” she said flatly.

“That’s one way to put it,” Ash laughed.

Sir Aaron chuckled, “Yes, I am alive. For that you can blame Mew and many magical rocks. I didn’t think you would recognize me.”

Riley shrugged, “Well, I’ve been studying you for several years. After all you were the only genetic link that mom could find when my abilities popped up.”

Sir Aaron smiled, “Well, I look forward to getting to know my nephew when this is all over then.”

Nephew? Oh fuck they were family!

Mandy cleared her throat, “While that was so sweet it made me want to throw up, can we back track? They drugged you?”

Well, that warm feeling fizzled died quickly at the withering glare his sister sent him. When did she learn to do that?

Riley bit his lip, “I thought they did. A lot of weird things happened.”

Mandy hummed but didn’t look convinced.

“You don’t believe me?” Riley raised a confused brow.

“I don’t believe a lot of the things you say,” Mandy grumbled, “We need to talk about our next move, while we got Riley out of Rocket’s clutches, we still have done anything to stop them from…oh I don’t know something big bad and dangerous.”

“Amanda is right,” Sir Aaron spoke, “While Team Rocket’s goal appears to be complete the ritual for Arceus, we still know nothing about Anwir’s involvement in all of this.”

“Anwir?” Riley spoke up.

“Creepy other uncle,” Ash said, as the toaster popped up a warm Pop-tart, “He wants us all dead,” the teen said with a full mouth.

“Don’t talk with your mouth full,” Sir Aaron chided lightly heading towards the kitchen.

“Tea is in the microwave uncle,” Mandy said no looking up from her phone.

A look of slight surprise came over Sir Aaron’s face, but he nodded with a soft smile, “Thank you Amanda.”

If Riley were more focused on the scene in front of him, he’d pay more attention to the interactions, but that name was messing with him.

“Anwir doesn’t have white hair, does he?” Riley said.

The movement in the kitchen stopped, with the exception of Mandy who didn’t react.

“You saw him?” Sir Aaron asked.

“I think he interrogated me. He wanted to know where some kind of key was,” Riley said.

“Key? You mean the thing guys at the temple wanted?” Ash said.

“What guys?” Mandy raised a brow.

“Oh, did I not tell you. Goh was freaking out, so I activated a time flower and we watched some dude in a feathered hat, get pissed off about seven keys getting smashed so he cut off one guy’s head and impaled another one on to a table,” Ash said.

“That calmed Goh down?” Mandy asked.

Ash shook his head, “No, no it didn’t.”

“Keys?” Sir Aaron’s eyes lit up, “That’s what Anwir wants.”

“What? Oh did you just an eureka moment?” Ash asked.

“I-I believe I don’t know that term, but if Anwir is looking for a Key, then he’s most likely trying to get into the inner sanctum, back at the Temple,” Sir Aaron said.

“That’s why he followed us there, he might have thought we could’ve opened it,” Mandy murmured, “So we got a motive.”

“What’s the inner sanctum?” Riley said feeling very lost.

“It was the inner most chamber of the Aura Guild main settlement. Due to the large amount of Aura that naturally flowed from it, it was believed that Arceus was born there,” Sir Aaron put down his tea mug and began to pace, “Anwir must be trying to get into the Sanctum to preform the ritual there.”

“Well, he’ll need a lot of luck, all seven of the keys were destroyed,” Ash said.

Sir Aaron froze in his pacing, “Seven? There’s supposed to be eight.”

A heavy silence fell upon the room.

“Uh oh,” Ash said, swallowing “Where does a magical Key go missing too?”

“Anywhere in the world after centuries,” Mandy said.

Riley cleared his dry throat, “I’m still very lost, but what would these Key’s look like. Anwir was pretty sure I knew where it was.”

Sir Aaron began pacing again, “They were simple charms, merely interprets of Arceus’s ring, made of pure gold and embellished with emeralds.”

“Simple?” Many raised a brow, “Those sound expensive.”

“Pure materials are easier to use as a conduit for aura,” Sir Aaron said.

Riley tuned out the conversation for moment. The description of whatever these keys were, while vague. Rang a silver bell in Riley’s mind. The memory was old and faded but it was there.

“Mandy, you had one,” Riley said, bring the conversation in the room to a standstill.

“What?” His sister said flatly.

“You had one, a gold necklace of Arceus’ ring.”

Mandy shook her head, with a nervous laugh, “No I don’t.”

“Yes,” Riley nodded, “You did, Grandma gave it to you I remember, said it was supposed to be passed down through the women of the family.”

Mandy bit her lip refusing to say more.

“Amanda?” Sir Aaron prodded.

Mandy sighed, “Okay, fine I did. I don’t have it anymore though. Mother gave it away a few years ago. Besides we don’t even know if that’s the charm we’re looking for.”

“It’s too much of coincidence,” Riley said, “We need to at least check.”

“Amanda, you said your mother gave it away,” Sir Aaron said, “To whom?”

Mandy rolled her eyes, “I know to who, but she won’t give us the necklace.”

“It’s a long shot, but one we need to take. Where is this person?” Sir Aaron said.

“Ryme City,” Mandy clicked her tongue, “Well, Riri looks like you and Lulu, while have top come home after all, sorry to disappoint.”

With that Mandy stood from her chair and stalked out of the room. Riley looked after his sister with confusion. Why did it seem like she was pissed off?

Ash looked at him with a grin that made Riley scared, “Lulu and Riri?”

“Don’t ask,” Riley groaned, while Lucario wilted in his lap.

Chapter Text

Delia tried very hard not to over spice the stew she was making for dinner. While she could handle heat in her food, Ash was never really a fan, and she certainly didn’t want to upset her guests. It had been a long time since her house was full, not since Ash was very little and the Ketchums were still alive, did it feel full.

If only she could enjoy it, because it was very clear she had abused children under her roof.

Riley may be in his twenties, but Delia couldn’t see him as a grown man when he was curled up on her sofa fast asleep, his face green with bruises. He looked too much like Ash when her boy was little and had taken a bad tumble in the Professor’s pastures. Bruises and scrapes on his skin with grass stains and dirt in his clothing. Delia was sure that the imprisonment would forever affect Riley, even if it didn’t seem like it right away. No one lives through something like that without some kind of trauma sticking to them. However, it was his reaction to how Delia wanted to take care of him that made her really worry.

“It’s fine.” “You don’t need to do that.” “I don’t want to be a bother.”

Delia bit her lip and started to cut vegetables with a swift blade, the repetition of the task soothing. Bother. She shook her head. The boy was her nephew in simplistic terms! He could never be a bother! Especially, after everything he went through. He needs to be a bother! Family took care of one another…It was almost like Riley wasn’t taught that.

It was even worse when Delia met Amanda. Granted, the middle-aged woman was probably a little to forward when they met, she really should’ve asked before she hugged. However, her niece’s reaction to the contact was very telling. The young woman stiffed and refused to meet her gaze afterward. Almost as if she was scared of Delia, and didn’t want do anything that might cross the older woman. When Delia apologized, Amanda those two dreaded words her brother kept repeating.

“It’s fine.”

It almost made Delia mad. Clearly contact was not fine for Amanda, yet she still said it was. Boundaries were understandable, healthy even. Delia might’ve accepted the short response if it weren’t for the almost fearful look in Amanda’s eyes. This wasn’t just some case of, “oh I’m not a tactile person”, this was something else.

Come to think of it. Riley wasn’t used to embraces from family either. He flinched when Delia checked him for fever…

Hummm…

“Is everything alright?”

Delia abruptly stopped her chopping at the question. Her brown eyes flicked back, finding knight that she had roped into helping her prepare dinner by peeling the potatoes, watching her with curious eyes.

“Of course, why wouldn’t they be?” Delia answered.

“Well, your soul is projecting waves or righteous fury,” Sir Aaron said carefully.

“Reading a soul without permission? Isn’t that rather invasive Sir knight?” Delia teased, feeling her rage mellow slightly at the concern.

Sir Aaron chuckled, “My apologies, Lady Ketchum, it just seems to be bothering you.”

Delia rolled her eyes playfully, before her face saddened, she sighed, “She never hugged them.”

Sir Aaron paused his potato peeling, “Pardon?”

“Their mother, Amanda and Riley, she never hugged them.”

“How can you be certain?” There was genuine confusion in his voice.

“Don’t tell me that you, a man who can literally read the emotions off of someone, haven’t picked up on how stiff they are around me?” Delia turned to look at him with a raised brow.

Sir Aaron was silent for a moment, “I’ve picked up on rather, worrying behavior from Amanda, but nothing in relation to you…”

She sighed through her nose, “Okay, let me explain. When I was pregnant with Ash I picked up these books on child psychology…You know what psychology is right?”

“Amanda is a ‘psych student’, and from I’ve browsed from her books, I believe it’s the study of the human mind?”

“Yeah, basically. Well, in that I learn a lot about how easy it is to mess up a child as a parent. And I’m, not sure if it’s neglect or abuse, but something happened to both of them regarding their mother, and now their wary of me because of it.”

“Why would they be wary of you?”

“It’s probably a defensive mechanism, I’m Ash’s mother, and they only have experience with their mother as how to behave around a mother.”

“That is…concerning,” Sir Aaron said.

Delia could only nod in return. Her thoughts slowly drifted back to her newly found niece and nephew, and she silently vowed they’d have a place here. Family they could count on. Family was such a fragile thing, so easy to break, so hard to make. By mew, Delia would keep hers safe.

Lucario was not jealous. He certainly wasn’t. He was far to mature for that…even as he watched the pup wrestle with the younger adult.

It had become very clear that Riley’s auratic match was far more playful than himself and that was very appealing to Riolu. If the two of them ripping up the grass and yipping with laughter on Madam Delia’s property was anything to go by.

“Bree Umber (you frown any harder and I’ll start reading your soul by default),” Umbreon purred from where she lounged in the shade.

“Lu Ca (I am not frowning).”

Umbreon raised a brow, her disbelief both expressed auraticaly and outwardly, “Umber Um Bre (you really shouldn’t be jealous. Lulu was like this with all the new hatchings. He won’t steal your baby from you).”

Lucario growled, “Car (The pup is not mine).”

A that disbelief was back once more, “Eon Umber (sure, let me know when you stop swimming in denial).”

The shadow wielder got to her paws, stretching her back with a purr before trotting over to the wrestling duel before them. Lucario didn’t need to hear the exchange between Umbreon and Lulu to know that the aura Pokémon didn’t agree with the shadow wielder’s interruption. Pichu and Pikachu were quick to distract Riolu, pulling the pup anyway for another game. While Umbreon lead the young adult back over to the shade where she was previously relaxing in.

“lu car lu (you didn’t need to stop us, I was fine),” Lulu said sitting beside the shadow wielder he had for a sister.

“Bree Bree (you can make that call when a third of you isn’t wrapped up in gauze).”

“Cari lu (I know what I can handle. I’m not a pup).”

“Bree (neither am I).”

Lucario sensed some tension forming and decided to cut in, “Ca lu rio lu (I trust you both are not going to follow your human’s examples, and have a cold war between the two of you)”

“Bree Umber Bree (please, Mandy and Riri shit is their shit to deal with).”

Lulu’s ears flicked in a confused manner, “Car Cari (there’s a cold war between them)?”

Lucario leveled a slightly unimpressed look with the younger aura Pokémon. It was no secret that Amanda was not fond of her brother, and that Riley, from what little time he had spent conscious, was completely unaware of his sister’s detachment. But his auratic partner too?

Umbreon sighed, “bree….(like Pokémon like trainer…)”

“lu (what?)”

“Car Ca lu lu (Amanda has clearly expressed distaste for her brother, Lulu).”

The younger gave a small moan, “Rio car rio (is that nickname really sticking?)”

“Umber Um Bree (We’re going to need a way to differentiate you two somehow. We all know that Riri is going to want to stick around to further his training. And I know you’ll want to try the whole telepathy thing.)”

Lulu sighed reluctantly accepting his cruel fate.

Amanda practically growled at the textbook chapter in front of her. One moment the sentences were making sense and the next the words stumbled and swirled into a string of nonsensical letters and symbols that she easily lost the plot of. She sighed, fingers rubbing her eyes that felt oddly sore. Frustration at her lack of progress regarding her college work welled up inside of her. She had read far longer and more stale textbook chapters before! Why was this easy assignment giving her so much trouble!

A gurgle bubbled up in her stomach, that was quickly followed by a hollow feeling inside. Amanda paid no mind; she was used to studying hungry. The hunger would motivate her to push farther in to her studies. Some people had the luxury of taking a break to eat, but Amanda wasn’t one of them. If she took a break, she would lose focus and all progress she could make. Her stomach screamed again for food.

“You know I can hear you from here,” Ash said walking into the kitchen.

Her cousin was dressed in PJs and had bed frazzled hair. The lights had been turned off and the windows were dark. Amanda glanced at the clock on her laptop screen surprised to see it read 12:34 am. She had lost time again.

“I’m fine,” Amanda said.

She had to be. They were going to leaving for Ryme in the morning, and she was driving to the train station (thank you Professor Oak for getting the tickets), so there would be no time to catch up on her master’s degree.

Ash leveled at her with an unconvinced look, “Yeah, no. I remember you didn’t have any dinner or lunch today. C’mon you need to eat something.”

Her cousin opened the fridge and pulled out a container of broth.

“I thought your mother didn’t want you cooking?” Amanda raised a brow.

“I can heat up stuff in the microwave, I’m not helpless.”

“You don’t need to do that,” Amanda insisted turning back to her digital textbook, “I can wait until breakfast.”

“You really think I would let anyone in my mom’s house go hungry? C’mon what would Riley say if he knew you were starving yourself,” Ash said setting a bowl of broth in front of her and then gesturing to her sleeping brother on couch.

Amanda huffed through her nose, “He wouldn’t care.”

Ash tilted his head in a way that looked puzzled, “What? But he’s your brother?”

She sighed, “You don’t have siblings Ash, one moment you think they’ll always be by your side, but in the end, they’ll just stab you in the back. Riley doesn’t care if I’ve eaten or not, he hasn’t cared about me in thirteen years.”

“That can’t be true. He seemed really worried about you in the tunnels and was happy to see you.”

“He was delirious with pain, with in a week he won’t hesitate to leave again.”

The words were covered in barbs, almost getting caught in her throat and painful to speak. Though Amanda wasn’t surprised by it. The truth always hurts. She learned that a long time ago. And she wasn’t going to be holding back.

“Well, maybe he’ll surprise you,” Ash said, “Night Amanda.”

“Goodnight,” Amanda said on reflex.

Her grey eyes drifted towards the couch where her brother slept like he was dead. He might as well be dead; Amanda was certain they wouldn’t stay in contact after this was all over. Even if they would be going back home.

If her brother was like she remembered him, Riley would taking going home as a trip to be excited and nostalgic about. For Amanda it was something to dread. Mother would be pissed at her for taking off so suddenly and there’s nothing she could do about it. At least Amanda might get to see Constance and Carter again. The twins were the only thing she felt bad about leaving behind. They were still sweet kids, and she might have a few more years before they want nothing to do with her either.

Everything else involved in going home made her stomach twist. Amanda felt bad about playing dumb earlier when Riley mentioned the necklace. She had known exactly what he was talking about, but honestly, she didn’t want to touch the topic with a ten-foot pole. The Necklace had been a family heirloom, her grandmother had left it in her will to Amanda, said it was to be passed down from Grandmother to granddaughter. At first glance, it was expensive, gold and emeralds weren’t all that cheap, but it certainly wasn’t flashy. The story behind it was one of their ancestors had a foreign bride who brought the charm with her and refused to allow any of the men in the family handle it. She never had any daughters, so the charm ended up in the hands of her eldest granddaughter. Hence the tradition.

Maybe Mother had been bitter that she was part of a skipped generation, and that’s why she had taken the necklace. Not that Amanda hadn’t cared at the time. She had more conflicting issues to deal with. So, what if her mom took a piece of jewelry to smooth over relations with one of their neighbors after Amanda ruined a ten-year long friendship.

Amanda sighed, she needed sleep.

Chapter Text

Riley walked towards the old RV parked outside of his aunt’s house (He had an aunt, who knew?). An odd sense of nostalgia flooded him at the sight of the silver and fools-gold colored vehicle. It had changed since Riley had last seen it. Dad has always kept the thing shiny, cleaned and topped up with fuel. Ready at a moment's notice, he had told Riley.

Oh, the young man had so many wonderful memories inside of this thing. Dad had taken him camping in it from the moment Riley could walk. He could still smell the smoke from the fire, mixing with the aroma of a fresh stew along with roasted popcorn. Mom never joined them, but Dad always made up for it, he’d play his old guitar and sing songs of old before tucking Riley his sleeping bag to slumber under the stars. It got even better when Mandy was born. Riley was no longer a beginner at that point and would help Dad teach her the ways of camping.

Mandy’s first camping trip had kind of been a disaster. Mom and Dad had been mad at each other the morning before they left, and it started pouring as soon as they got to the campsite. Riley remembered feeling as disappointed as a ten-year-old could feel, but Dad had pulled his grumpy kid and toddler back inside and they roasted marshmallows at the toaster oven. Mandy’s big grey eyes grew so wide at the taste of her first ever smore. She had been so cute back then, marshmallow goo and chocolate smeared on her smiling face.

A heavy slam came from the other side of the RV, and Riley peeked around the hood finding his sister having finished up with the pipe system. Mandy wasn’t that cute toddler anymore. No, his sister had become a woman. A woman who now took care of their old man’s RV as if it was her own. When did Dad pass the responsibility of the vehicle on to Mandy, Riley wondered.

His sister barely gave him a glance before muttering, “What do you want?”

“Why do I get the feeling your mad at me?” Riley said.

Mandy turned to him raising an unimpressed brow, “If you’re to play dumb at least be clever about it.”

Her tone was one of “shut up before I stab you with my nails”.

Riley looked away and popped his lips, suddenly feeling the uncomfortable atmosphere around them, “Uhm…well you seem to be taking good care of the old rig?”

“Do you honestly think I’m that irresponsible, Riri?” Mandy said.

“No, no,” Riley said quickly, “I’m just surprised, Dad let you use this old thing. This was like his third child, and he took good care of it, you know?”

Mandy hands, which her previously whipping them on a stained cloth, stilled and for some reason Riley thought he felt a wave of sadness waft of her soul. She sighed but nodded.

“So, when did let you drive it?” Riley asked, “He said it’d be years before I was ready.”

“He didn’t let me drive it,” Mandy said flatly, “I inherited it, about five years ago.”

Riley’s brows furrowed as he crunched the numbers in his head, “Wait, you inherited this when you were thirteen? Isn’t that a little young?”

Mandy nodded, “No shit sherlock, but it was either I take it or the junkyard.”

“Junkyard? Very funny. Dad would never…”

“Dad is dead!” Mandy snapped, “By Arceus! I’m not a little kid! You don’t need to pretend he’s still around for me!....”

Riley didn’t hear the rest of his sister’s rant…“Dad is dead?” His whispered, “Wha…When…?”

Mandy stopped talking, “Five years ago,” she bit her lip and looked Riley dead in the eye, “Don’t act as if you didn’t know.”

Riley shook his head, as if the world around him was crumbling, “Why didn’t you or mom tell me?”

“Tell you?!” Mandy put her hands on her hips, “Riri, I tried to contact you for years! I sent countless letters. I figured mother sent you an invite to the funeral and just didn’t have the time to show up. Which is fine, I get it. You were out chasing your dreams, and couldn’t let me or Dad hold you back,” She sighed, and started walking towards the house, “C’mon we need to get the bags loaded up.”

With his sister gone, there was nothing to distract Riley form the sudden grief. His father had been dead for five years and he hadn’t known. His heart grew heavy, like it was swelling underneath his rib cage. White teeth sank into his lip, and the copper tase of hot blood washed over his tongue. He allowed himself a moment to mourn but then pushed the pain down. Choosing to continue forward. There was a mission at hand and he couldn’t let it go wrong.

He lost his father…he couldn’t lose his sister. 

“Do you see it yet?” Ash muttered to Goh, who shook his head.

Sir Aaron suppressed a laugh at the lads’ antics. Both Ash and Goh were currently smooshed again the window of their train cabin, eagerly trying to catch the first glimpse of Ryme City. Pikachu on top of Ash’s head with Raboot hanging off Goh’s shoulder while Lulu and Lucario (although watching with less enthusiasm) corralled the lads on their sides. Apparently neither of them had visited this place before either. Excitement, with its clingy static feeling, charged the cabin.

Well at least to the youngest in the room. The knight’s icy eyes flicked over to view the oddly melancholy face of his nephew. Riley sat in the bench opposite of Sir Aaron, leaning his elbow on arm of the cushioned seat with a palm pressed to his forehead. His expression was one of deep thoughts. Sir Aaron rose to his feet, carefully making sure not to get jostled by the train’s movement and smack his face on the floor…again.

“May I?” He asked Riley gesturing to the empty space next to his nephew.

Riley shrugged in a manner that, said “be my guest”.

“Are you alright?”

“I look that bad huh? Usually I’m better at hiding it, sorry.”

Sir Aaron shook his head, “Even if you were hiding it better, I would have noticed your distress. Aura users are quite in tune with the emotions of their fellows, especially when it comes to family.”

Riley’s brows furrowed, “Is that why I always knew how Mandy was feeling when we were little? I-I mean, when she was like four I just had this strong sense of fear that I knew wasn’t mine, and the next thing I know I’m blasting away a horde of Beedrill from attacking her.”

The knight nodded, “That would’ve been an instance of shared emotions. She likely reached out to you for protection auratically,” Sir Aaron paused, “Perhaps now we should get back on subject. What’s upsetting you?”

Riley chuckled, the sound almost desperate for humor, “I’m going home. I should be happy, but my dad’s dead. He’s been dead for five years and I had no idea…I guess…I’m worried home isn’t going to be the one I remember.”

Sir Aaron nodded, the fear oddly familiar. This world around him wasn’t his own. His home was destroyed. Not only the Temple where he was trained, but likely his ancestral property as well. Not that he had the same attachment to that cold castle, as he did to the Temple.

“It’s likely not going to be,” Sir Aaron said, “I however, like to find the good things such situations as these.”

Riley huffed, “Now you sound like him.”

“You’re father?”

Riley nodded.

“Tell me about him.”

“He was…humble. He had served in the Tri-Team War as a member of Team Mystic. Later went on to become a Ranger, but he never told anyone of his service until asked, and even then he didn’t sugar coat it. ‘War is something never to be wished for’ he always told me.”

Sir Aaron nodded, “He sounded like a man I would’ve gotten along with. A good soldier.”

“He was. He never let anyone call him that though, no matter how much mom tried to brag about her war hero husband. I think he preferred to be a dad.”

‘I would’ve too’ Sir Aaron thought, his icy eyes drifting towards Ash, the lad still standing at the window. He was such a bright light in this world. No matter how hard or what struggles Ash seemed to face, he still wore a smile. The Knight had to credit Madam Delia for her son’s temperament, however there was an odd sense of shame to think that she had to raise the boy alone. If had been given a choice Sir Aaron would have chosen to care for his family…however, his child was lost to time…He never even seen their face…

Sir Aaron was pulled from his thoughts by the cabin door opened with a hiss of air (doors moved by air, such technology was almost magic), letting in Amanda. His niece huffed; lips twisted into a frown as she sat down forcefully on the opposite bench.

“Professor Oak might have great taste in trains, but this bucket of bolts has the worse coffee machine,” Amanda grumbled, “Bitter bean filled nightmare contraption.”

Despite her clear frustration with her drink, his niece still took a sip. Caffeine, the new addiction for young maidens and men when they were no longer allowed mead. Sir Aaron was almost fearful of the drink, considering how much Amanda consumed in a single day.

“Since when do you drink coffee?” Riley asked.

“Since hot cocoa wasn’t strong enough,” Amanda said.

“I can see it!” Goh suddenly called out from the window.

Curiosity moving his leg, Sir Aaron stood up once more and carefully made his way to the window. Through the clear glass, stood a vision of a city only from that of wildest dreams. Tall buildings of silver and crystal sprouted from the incoming horizon. Sir Aaron stopped himself from gaping at the stunning sight. Even the prettiest of flowers could carry poison, after all.

As much as a wonder Ryme City was, Ash was releved to learn that Riley and Amanda lived in an area that had a lot of surrounding forest.

The moment they all had stepped off the train, they were hit with the true chaotic nature of a big city. It was like walking headfirst into a title wave. People and Pokémon were everywhere. Flying types hanging off the skyscrapers. All the trainers were free roaming, their Pokémon following their heels in crowded hordes. Plant groves and charging stations were on every corn, to allow Electric and Grass types survive in the city.

The harmony between the humans and Pokémon in the city was a beautiful thing, however to a smalltown kid like Ash, it was crazy overwhelming. He had never seen so many people in one place. Goh was in a similar state, even if Vermillion was a bigger city than palettown, it wasn’t this crowd. Poor Sir Aaron and Lucario, they looked three steps from a panic attack. Only, Umbreon, Lulu, Amanda and Riley looked somewhat comfortable in the crowds.

His cousins walked into the chaos, seemingly understanding a hidden rhythm that everyone else was following. They moved with the crowds, Umbreon and Lulu following them with the same understanding. After bumping into someone for the fifth time, Ash was really wishing he had the same home team advantage as Amanda and Riley had.

So, yes, he was very happy when they left the heart of the city and walked into a neighborhood, with a lot of empty Forest area and really big houses.

“Are we there yet?” Goh asked after a half an hour of walking.

“Well, be at the house soon, we’ve been on the property for a while,” Amanda said.

“Wait a minute,” Ash said, “You own this forest area?”

“Everything for about two and a half miles out of the house walls,” Riley said.

Ash looked at Riley, “So, all this time, you’ve been rich?”

“Our family was once a line of Barons, Ketchum, and once they lost their political status, unlike their peers they were smart enough to know how they keep their land and wealth,” Amanda said.

Riley nodded, and they continued onward. Ash wasn’t sure why he was so surprised to learn his cousins were loaded, Riley was literally wearing a suit and dress shoes when they met, and Iron Island was falling apart.

True to Amanda’s word, the walk didn’t last that much longer. The path through the woods cleared revealing a large sloping meadow. A large field of vibrant green blades that whipped in the whistling wind. In the corner of it, atop the blunt peak of the slope, in the shade of tall pine and magnolia trees rested possibly the largest house that Ash had ever seen. The closer they got the more impressive it became. Walls of cobblestone and almost black wood stood high and strong, supporting four floors of the house. All the windows were perfectly cleaned, and current from the inside with what looked like velvet. A large garden was attached to the back and surrounded by a heavy stone wall. It was picture of a mansion for modern nobility.

Movement came from the mansion’s wrap around deck and very quickly two pale figures darted down the steps and towards them. Ash’s head tilted as he recognized the Pokémon, an Absol and Glaceon. Umbreon and Lulu reacted with an almost excited demeanor, running up to the strangers. It wasn’t long before all four of them were in a cuddle pile, greeting each other with joy.

“What the?” Goh muttered.

Riley snorted, “What’s so surprising? Haven’t you seen a family reunion before?”

Ash’s brows furrowed, “Family reunion?”

“Glace and Absol are Bree and Lulu’s parents,” Amanda said, before walking towards the sweet scene, Absol and Glaceon cuddling up to her legs as she got close.

Ash watched as Amanda kneeled to pet the newcomers in greeting. Her familiarity with them was clear. She had grown up with these Pokemon. A screech came from above and an elderly Staraptor landed in the middle of the pile, a large smile on his beak as he began to preen Amanda’s hair.

Riley barked a laugh at this sister’s state, but his amusement was short lived. Once he made a noise of the attention of the elder Pokémon was on him and in the blink of an eyes he was assaulted with licked and loving peaking just as Amanda was, and now his sister was laughing.

“You think I’m funny Riri?” Amanda said, “I’ve only been gone a few months, they’re never letting you out of their sight again!”

“Alright, alright!” Riley said, from underneath the fluffy and feathery assault of love, “I missed you all too!”

Ash was so jealous. He wanted to get smothered with Pokémon like that.

The door to the mansion opened, and a woman came out. She was plump with olive skin and greying blond curls. A large set of green glasses rested on her button nose. She wore a forest green dressed with flowers on it and a ruffled hem. A large smile stretched across her face as she spotted their group.

“Miss Amanda!” She said with excitement, and began to barrel down the steps, “You are home!”

Amanda laughed as the woman ran over and wrapped the younger in her arms. A hug that his cousin gladly returned.

“Mrs. Rose?” Riley said an almost surprised tone in his voice.

Mrs. Rose gasped, as her honey gold eyes landed on Riley. Her smile growing even wider, as she let go of Amanda and darted over to young man, “Master Riley! I cannot believe my eyes! Look how big you’ve grown!”

“I can’t believe it,” Riley said returning her hug, “I thought you would’ve retired by now.”

Mrs. Rose scoffed, “Oh, I can’t quit when there’s work to be done! Besides with the little ones in the house, your mother would lose her mind if I weren’t here.”

Mrs. Rose turned to the rest of them, completely missing Riley, confused, look at the words “little ones” and her face grew puzzled when she saw Sir Aaron.

“Is someone invent cloning? Oh, Madam Gen will be so angry someone did it before her,” Mrs. Rose mumbled.

Amanda laughed, “No, Mrs. Rose. This is Aaron he’s a distance uncle.”

“Oh can’t be that distant,” Mrs. Rose said, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, and I have to apologize in advance, I’m going to get you along Master Riley mixed up.”

Sir Aaron chuckled, “It’s fine madam.”

Mrs. Rose as the woman introduced herself was the housemaid of the Gen Family property. She minded the home, the garden and the children. It was clear that she had taken pride in her work. Once inside of the mansion the place appeared spotless, and while Ash hadn’t seen the garden’s yet, he was sure they were just as grand. She was also a wonderful caregiver if her strong relationships with Amanda and Riley were evident enough.

“I’ll prepare some rooms for you,” Mrs. Rose said, “I’m sorry we weren’t ready in advance, we don’t usually get guests in the family home.”

“It’s fine, Mrs. Rose,” Ash said, “This will probably be the fanciest places I’ve ever slept in.”

“I’ll give you a hand,” Amanda said.

Mrs. Rose shook her head, “Oh no dear, you just got home. Relax.”

“Is mom here?” Riley asked, and suddenly the mood dropped.

Mrs. Rose’s cheery smile vanished for a moment, her lips pressing together like she had just tasted something sour, but a smaller smile replaced it quickly, “I’m afraid not Master Riley. Madam Gen is currently on study retreat, but she is scheduled to return tomorrow night.”

The clatter of small footsteps came from the hall ahead of them, and rounding a corner came two identical boys about the age of seven. Oh by Arceus they looked like mini Rileys. Spikey hair, pale skin and the nose that everyone in their family seemed to share. An Eevee and Gibble at the boys’ feet. Twin sets of lagoon blue eyes sparkled, as they spied the group of new comers.

“Amanda!” They shrieked and dashed over to the young woman, clinging to her legs and climbing up her clothing.

“Constance! Carter! Hey! I missed you guys” Amanda said, bringing the twin who was climbing her on her hip, and ruffling hair of the one clinging to her leg, with practiced movements, “Crunchy let go of my boot,” she glared at the Gibble gnawing on her ankle, while the Eevee circled them.

“You’re home!” The one on Amanda’s leg squealed.

“We didn’t think you’d ever come back,” the other twin said.

“Oh c’mon guys, you know I’d never leave you behind,” Amanda said, “What have you been up to while I was gone?”

That got the twins rambling, and Amanda listened to every bit of it. It was really sweet seeing this side of his cousin Ash thought. She had been so focused on her work and never really smiled unless she was smirking. Here, with these boys, she was smiling carefree. It was a sweet scene, and made Ash wish he had a little sibling.

However, the mood was dampened when Ash overheard Riley whisper almost in awe, “I have brothers…” 

Chapter Text

Sir Aaron walked through the large sweeping halls of the Gens’ ancestral home, insomnia fueling his feet and mind. The mansion was by far the most luxurious place the knight had ever had the pleasure of staying at. Windows of fine crystal, floors of varnished wood so polished you could see your reflection in them, and he was certain that some of the pieces of furniture were worth more then all of Lady Ryn’s jewels. Yet, despite is glamorous appearance, Sir Aaron couldn’t help but pick up on a sense of sadness that lingered in this grand home.

As it wasn’t really home. Sure, his niece and nephews lived here, but it wasn’t a home. A home was more like Delia’s house. Warm and inviting. This place. It was almost sterile. Even if two young boys roamed the grounds.

Constance and Carter, his youngest nephews, were delightful lads. Sir Aaron could tell they were dormants at the first glance of their souls, but he found he hardly minded. After spending the evening talking with them it was clear the boys were bright in their own ways. They were certainly smarter than Sir Aaron gave them credit for. They were little inventors in the making. Their room was covered in little tools or machines they had built from kits or designed themselves. It seemed as if they also inherited the technology inclined gene that Amanda was blessed with (at least that’s how Sir Aaron thought genes worked).

Despite being practically identical in appearance, interests and mannerisms, there were thankfully some differences. Constance was the milder manner one, while Carter was a little more excitable. The former reading the instructions of any new build out loud, while the latter built said contraption with his hands. Though, if Sir Aaron was being honest, the only reason he hadn’t mixed up the two was because of the boys different Pokémon partners.

Constance had followed in his sister’s footsteps, pairing with an eevee. A sweet little fluff ball that had taken to riding on his human’s head. Carter had gone off the beaten path like Riley, and selected to befriend a gibble, who was affectionally nick-named “Crunchy”. Said boy would carry around the little dragon like a stuffed toy in an adorable manner.

Despite not understanding half of the technical terms that the twins said when talking about their projects, Sir Aaron rather enjoyed their company, and hoped to be part of the boys’ lives after all this was over.

Sadly, the boys seemed to like him. They were rather awkward with their older brother. They seemed so stiff whenever Riley was around, like they needed to act formally. Which was a sharp contrast to how comfortable they were with their sister.

Speaking of his niece. Amanda’s behavior in the home was more like that of Mrs. Rose as house staff then a resident. The moment the twins were settled with their homework that evening, she went to work helping Mrs. Rose prepare dinner, despite the elder woman’s protests. Even with all the make-up she wore he knew his niece was exhausted. Yet, she went out of her way to prepare dinner, get the twins to bed and still get him a cup of tea without him asking.

Sir Aaron sighed rubbing his eyes. He hoped Amanda was getting the rest she deserved after getting them all settled for the night. Riley might have had a room here already, but rooms in the guest wing needed to be prepared for Sir Aaron, and the older lads.

The knight turned a corner, walking down a high hall deeper into the manor. The windows on the walls were quickly replaced with priceless paintings or works of art. Such as portraits of what Sir Aaron assumed were previous residents of the home. The people in them were all the same in a way. None of the faces were happy, all of them with stern looks and upturned noses like they were above the viewer. Sir Aaron glanced at each with a rather bored expression after a while, until he stumbled across a familiar face amongst the crowd of strangers.

On the right side of the hall, encased in a gold frame of swirling metal, was Emily. Or at least, a brush made specter of his sister. Sir Aaron’s heart ached with longing as he saw her, not only because she was merely a memory of faded paints now, but because of her state. The girl in the portrait was a little older than he remembered her, a little thinner and sicklier as well. Her face was blank. The light her eyes vanished, while her lips remained limb on her face. The dress she wore spoke of wealth in the style, but also restriction as the many bows were more like knots rather than decoration. She looked more like a doll then his sister.

“Find something interesting?”

Sir Aaron jumped at the sudden voice but breathed in relief as he spied Mrs. Rose approaching him.

“Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.”

Sir Aaron chuckled as he calmed his racing heart, “It’s alright madam. I was just…”

“Admiring the artwork?”

“Admiring is not the right word…” Sir Aaron gritted his teeth.

Mrs. Rose tutted and sighed, “I’ll agree with you on that one. While the piece is stunning, the story behind it is horrid.”

“Story?”

“My family has worked in this manor for generations. I’ve been told the story of almost every master and miss who’s lived in these halls, and hers,” she gestured to Emily’s portrait, “is a sad one.”

Sir Aaron bit his lip, knowing was about to regret what he was going to ask, “What happened?”

“She was brought over as a wife for Master Alen Grace. The fourth one I believe, some last-ditch effort for an heir. He loved her, but the feeling wasn’t mutual. She never smiled, not even on the wedding day. She bore him one son and nursed the boy for three years. Then one morning, they found her in the rose garden with a dagger through her chest and a smile on her face.”

The knight clenched his jaw, as his eyes burned and hand curled into fists, with a tightened throat he spoke, “who killed her.”

“Herself,” Mrs. Rose spoke sadly, “they found the suicide note later that day and her last wishes were honored through it.”

Something hot and vile coiled in Sir Aaron’s heart. Emily had been a kind soul; his sister was underserving of such a fate. The knight quickly bit Mrs. Rose good night before dashing away from the painting at a brisk pace. He couldn’t see her like that anymore. Broken.

His feet moved without his minds input, and quickly fresh night air drifted across his skin. Cooled blades of grass licked at his bare soles. The chatter of the night crawling Pokémon echoed through the moon lit sky like a private symphony for mother nature. Sir Aaron took a deep breath, allowing the calm setting to wash over him, soothing his weary grieving soul.

The world grew silent around him before…a new melody replaced the one of the night. The soft plucking of strings, in a slow step sound. A comfort like no other came over him, as a voice began to sing…

“Talking away, I don’t know what, I’m to say, I’ll say it anyway…”

“Emily?” Sir Aaron wondered, starting towards the song.

“Today’s another day to find you…”

The melody continued to be smooth and sorrowful, but voice was soothing. He turned a corner, finding a gate in the garden, the latch old and reddened, while the wood was mildewed over. Opening it, Sir Aaron walked into a field of white roses. Their ivory petals in full bloom, gleaming in the pale moonlight. Their black brambles blended in with the shadows, making them float, like little ghosts dancing in the wind.

“…Ill be coming for you love okay?...”

The voice drew him deeper into the rose garden.

“Take on me…Take me on…”

In a pruned space, where no brambles grew, sitting on a bench Sir Aaron found Amanda. In the moonlight her skin and eyes gleamed. The pale glow bringing her being to life. Her fingers plucked at the strings of the instrument in her grasp with practiced confidence. Her voice flowed from in a quiet manner, yet it held more colors than any choir. Sir Aaron had heard recordings, but they paled in comparison to that of a live show.

“I’ll be gone…in a day or two… So needless to say…I’m odds and ends…”

Sir Aaron didn’t miss the subtle smile on her face. Peering deeper into her aura, he found that the darkness clinging to her had retreated. It wasn’t gone, merely shrunken. However, for the first time the knight witnessed his niece’s light outshine her shadows. It was almost watching Ash when he battled, a soul flourishing in passion.

“…Slowly learning that life is okay… Say after me…it’s no better to be safe then sorry…”

The joy that his niece was finding peace, soothed the inter turmoil of his sisters fate. Emily’s death would forever haunt him, he didn’t doubt that. However, in this moment, the knight let himself smile for the remaining blood his sister passed on.

“Take on me…take me oo~n…I’ll be goo~ne…in s day or twooo…”

As the final notes were played, Sir Aaron let a moment of quiet settle, before stepping out, “You are fantastic.”

Amanda startled at his voice, however, unlike before when where someone had frightened her she didn’t react violently. Only jump and hold her instrument closer to her.

“Sorry, did I wake you up?” Amanda murmured.

Sir Aaron shook his head, then pried at this niece’s mind with a gentle tug, wanting to know the reason behind the flash of fear in her soul.

“I’m not really supposed to do this. Mother doesn’t like it when I sing.”

“Why on earth would she not like your singing?”

Amanda shrugged, “She calls it a distraction for real progress.”

Sir Aaron scoffed, not impressed with this unknown woman’s opinion, “And what does she dub progress.”

“Curing cancer, or some new kind of scientific discovery.”

“While I understand the purpose of discovery, one shouldn’t shut out the arts for foolishness,” Sir Aaron spoke taking a seat beside his niece.

“Well, you’re going to have a fun time with her tomorrow,” Amanda grumbled.

“You’re dreading her arrival.” It wasn’t a question.

“She’s just a lot. This whole place is a lot. Every room except here really.”

“Here?” Sir Aaron raised a surprised brow.

“The rose garden. I always find peace here. The rest of the house just feels sad.”

Sir Aaron took a deep breath, “I…noticed the same,” he cleared his throat, suddenly wary of the surrounding thorns, “Come, I believe it’s time to return to bed.” 

Amanda hated the large building in front of her. Once there was a time, she couldn’t wait to come to this place. The Ryme City School of the Arts. As a little girl she had dreams of walking through the set of old metal powdered brown doors, and towards her future. What would she study? Well…Amanda shook her head. That didn’t matter now.

After a nudge from Umbreon she walked through the door and into the wide halls. Her boots clicking on the old worn tiles. Only stopping one to ask directions to the theater auditorium from a passing teacher, on her journey through the school.

The auditorium was empty at this hour, a large hall of bare seats and a plain stage. There was only one other person then herself. A figure danced across the old wooden stage. No music that guided their steps could be heard, but Amanda knew he never needed the song to dance. A Leafeon strutted next to him in unison. She cleared her throat, grabbing his attention.

The dancer stopped abruptly and spun quickly to see who had interrupted his private morning practice, “Mandy?” his voice sparked with surprise.

“Elliot,” Amanda said awkwardly.

Elliot Manchet was a boy of her age. His skin was like pale clay and from it was molded body of lanky limbs and a round yet long face with a button nose. Black hair was slicked back, and shimmered in the stage lights, bringing out his sharp green eyes. He had grown up handsome, and judging by the ring on his finger, Amanda wasn’t the only one who thought so. Not that she saw him as anymore than just the boy who ran headfirst into a wall when they were children.

“You’re actually here?” Elliot said prancing closer, “Did your mom finally let you enroll.”

Amanda shook her head, “No, I’m just here to cash in a favor. I need to know where Bella moved her operation.”

“What operation?” Elliot looked to the side.

Amanda raised a brow, “We both know you’re still active in the underground battles rings, don’t even try to lie to me. I know you’re still involved. She wouldn’t want to lose one of her biggest money makers just because me and her aren’t on talking terms.”

“Say I did tell you where she is, why do you want to know? After…”

“You don’t need to say it! I was there too. Look, she just has something I need are you going to help me or not?”

Elliot bit his lip, “She set up a place down by the docks in hightown. You didn’t hear it from me though.”

“Never had never will. Thank you for nothing,” Amanda said and turned to leave.

“You know,” Elliot called out just as she reached the doors, “my mom said you can come stay with us whenever you need.”

Amanda froze for a moment, before slamming the door behind her. Cutting the dancer off.

Chapter Text

“You know when you said we’d be going into the city today, I didn’t think it would be this place,” Ash said.

“Pika!”

Ash had quite enjoyed his time at Ryme City so far. Amanda and Riley’s childhood home was so big it took him an hour to explore all the rooms that were unlocked. Four floors, endless bedrooms, an indoor pool, and long tall empty halls ways. It was kind of both wonderous and intimidating. On one hand, if he grew up in this place he would definitely get lost on a daily basis, on the other hand this was the perfect place for hide and seek tournaments.

However, the best part about his cousins’ home was far outside of the walls. In the meadow outside of the mansion, was an eevee spawning ground. Eevees, eevee eggs, and even a few eevlutions frolicked through the meadow. Due to the easy access to multitudes of eevees, most of the new trainers in Ryme City would get to pick one straight from the meadow. Ash learned about this fact when a shy girl knocked on the mansion’s door that morning and Mrs. Rose showed them to the field. Naturally curious Ash elected to join them, and ended up in utter bliss as a large amount of the hatchlings dogpiled him for the rest of the morning. They were all so cute!

And while the property was great, so was the people that lived inside of the mansion’s walls. Mrs. Rose seemed determined to become everyone’s grandmother. She was so sweet and caring. Making sure they all had a warm soft place to sleep, and yummy meals to fill their stomachs. The elder woman just had this feeling of safety surrounding her.

Ash also found that he very much enjoyed the company of his youngest cousins too. Constance and Carter were so much fun to be around, even if Ash couldn’t understand a lick of what they were saying half the time. It was crazy some of the inventions those two had come up with, Ash would have to introduce the two of them to Clemet. Maybe his friend can finally have a little revenge and try to set Bonnie up with one of them. Though, the kids seemed to have this really weird aversion to dirt. Ash tried to get them to come outside, but they were really worried about getting their clothes dirty. Must be a rich people thing.

So, when Amanda said that they would be heading into the city after lunch to go find whoever took her necklace, given the overwhelming positive impression he already had to the city, Ash was excited.

His excitement was greatly dampened when his cousin took them, not to the shining city of crystal tower, but the docks on the southern east side of the city. The place was nothing like they city it was apart of. The sound of the ocean rippled through the air bringing with it the smell of salt and mildew from the old rotten wooden docks that were falling apart. The lights around them flickered from clearly old bulbs and the concrete beneath them was covered in dirt and mystery stains. The whole place gave this “someone was murdered here” vibes. Even with the beginnings of a beautiful sunset starting to form on the horizon.

Amanda huffed, “I bet, when most people think of Ryme City they don’t really picture the rundown buildings of Oldtown.”

“Is Bella even here?” Riley asked, “Not that I don’t trust you Mandy, but this doesn’t seem like a place she’d hang out.”

“She’s here or at least she should be,” Amanda said.

“I hope she’s right,” Goh whispered into Ash’s ear, “I don’t like this place. It makes me feel like someone is going to jump out and stab us.”

It’s called survival instinct, Goh.

His fellow researcher sent the ancient Pokémon and unimpressed glance.

“Y’all coming?” Amanda said.

Ash looked up at her and was a little startled to find that his cousin had walked several paces away from them. She turned a corner, vanishing behind it. The four remaining humans shared a confused glance before following her.

Turning the corner himself, Ash was surprised to find a very plain sight in front of him. A long flat warehouse, old and unassuming, stood just ahead of them. Amanda walked towards the only heavy metal door on the side, nodding to the rest of them to follow.

She knocked and the mail slot in the door opened.

“The muckrow sings a chorus,” a raspy voice slithered out of the slot.

“But the Dotrio is a choir,” Amanda answered, and the door was opened with a screech and a heavy dubstep began to pour from the opened door.

“Alright,” Amanda started, “If anyone is under three feet tall, I suggest that you stick close if you don’t want to be trampled.”

Ash looked down at Riolu, the pup looked up at him with confused tomato-berry eyes. Taking Amanda’s advice, he pulled up the little pup, giving him his free shoulder. Pikachu remained safe on the other one.

While the docks outside had been quiet and creeping, inside of the warehouse was the complete opposite. Suddenly Ash found himself in a world of loud music, strobe lights and chaos. There was a heavy smell of sweat and smoak in the air, and people crowded around them in the dark. If Ash wasn’t subconsciously following Amanda by aura connection, he’d have gotten lost in this place easily. Thankfully she seemed to be sticking towards the less populated places near the warehouse walls, instead of the human thicket that had formed in the middle of the room. What were they all looking at?

“An underground dance club?” Goh wondered out loud.

“Is this what the youth do for rebellious fun in modern days?” Sir Aaron tried to say but his voice was almost drowned out by the music and shrieks.

“Some of us,” Riley said.

“This is probably the most sin you’ve ever seen in a single place,” Amanda said, looking directly at a couple in the back corner who were clearly making out.

“Actually no, it reminds me of the old taverns,” Sir Aaron said, “Though, I don’t think this lot is drinking ale.”

They continued to weave through the screaming crowd. Ash was not used to the amount of people that were crowding him in this enclosed space. He kept a hand around Goh’s arm to make sure his friend wasn’t lost in the chaos. Amanda and Riley, like they did in the fancy part of the city, took to the crowd like fish to water. While Sir Aaron just seemed to be trying not to touch people.

Amanda pulled the group towards a blackened metal staircase. Behind him he could hear Goh griping that this place was not up to safety codes, as they climbed them to the upper platforms that ringed the ceiling.

“GENGAR vs. PIGEOT! Battle begins!” The words cut through the music, a slight warm muffle to them like when they used a sucky mic to amplify it.

Ash halted his feet and turned to look behind him. From his new upper view of the warehouse, he could finally see what everyone was crowding around. In the middle of the room was a makeshift battlefield. A circular chain-link fence, with a barbed wire top stood while two Pokémon inside dueled. Oddly though, Ash couldn’t see any place for a trainer to stand nearby.

“A battle arena?” Ash mumbled.

“Pi?”

“I thought Ryme City outlawed Pokémon battles,” Goh said.

“They did,” Amanda said before pulling them forward.

Once they got on the platforms, Ash couldn’t shake the sinking feeling in his stomach. He loved battles, but something about this felt off.

Riley had stalked forward from his place in the group and up to his sister’s side.

“Okay, I’m going to need some context,” he demanded.

Amanda raised a brow, “What context could you possibly need?”

“Oh, I don’t know, how about you start telling me about where you learned of this place. Underground battle rings are illegal,” Riley said.

“Don’t you think I know that Riri? Relax I never got into the actual fighting, but that doesn’t mean people I know didn’t.”

“You could still be arrested by proxy.”

“Only, if I get caught. Which considering that I’ve already committed multiple charges of breaking and entering, data theft, and possibly property destruction on this trip alone, I think I’m doing pretty good on that front.”

Ash snickered at Riley’s face of disbelief when Amanda dropped that bit of information.

In the far corner of the upper platforms rested a small closed off room. Ash thought it was probably an office of sorts from when the warehouse wasn’t an underground battle ring. Judging by the muscle head with the houndoom guarding the door, it clearly had found different used.

“Do you have an appointment?” the muscle head said when Amanda approached the door.

“Michel stop,” Amanda said, with a bored expression, “We both know Bella doesn’t take appointments, now are you going to let me in?”

Michel sighed, “Why are you even here Mandy, I know you and my sister lost touch.”

“What happened isn’t that we just ‘lost touch’, and you know it,” Amanda snapped.

“She didn’t do what you said she did, it was an accident.”

“I have the hospital bill to prove it and that’s just the beginning of what she did. Take off the damn rose colored glasses and see the truth for once in your life,” She crossed her arms, and sighed, “Why I’m here today has nothing to do with that though, so just let us through, or do we want to make this messy?”

Umbreon growled at her side, and to Ash’s shock the houndoom whimpered. Michel flinched and bit his lip before reaching for the latch behind him.

“You’re a Bitch, Gen,” He said opening the door.

“You’d know given who your sister is,” Amanda said.

“Don’t call her that,” Riley said, Lulu growling at his side.

Michel looked up at Riley and his angry expression morphed into one of surprise, “Riley?” he whistled, “Wow, prodigal son returns. I never thought I’d see you here again, after you ditched town.”

“Well, I’m back,” Riley said, “and I’d appreciate you treating my sister with respect.”

Michel cackled, “oh it’s adorable you think you have pull around here, after being gone for a decade,” he nodded for them to follow him through the door.

“Is this a mob house?” Goh whispered, to himself, “I did not agree to get involved with a mob.”

Inside the office was what Ash could only describe as a throne room (Lucario was clearly not impressed). There were no lights on other than a blacklight in the center of the ceiling. The back wall was lined with broken and battered battle trophies. Once gleaming metals of gold and silver were scuffed and spraypainted over. Trash littered the floor, old food wrappers and some illegal stuff. In the center of it all was a ripped up office chair.

A growl came from the corner and Ash’s eyes narrowed in on, a set of black wings, and a long tail set ablaze.

“Wow,” Ash felt Goh breathe, “a shiny Charizard.”

The large fire type stepped towards the chair, an obvious scar on its snout. A pale hand reached up to trace it with almost disdain. Something hissed on the ground and Ash suddenly realized that there was serviper wrapped around the wheels of the chair.

Something touched his shoulder, Ash looked back seeing Sir Aaron nodding at him to look forward. Amanda was standing a head of them a few paces away. Her stance was tense, uncomfortable. Fear wafted off of her in heavy waves. Something was wrong.

A soft chuckle echoed throughout the tight space, and a shiver went up Ash’s spine.

“Michel? What did I say about visitors today?” the tone was soft, but oddly threatening.

“These are ones you’ll want to see,” Michel said.

“And how would you know that, my dimwit of a big brother?”

Michel opened his mouth, but closed it instantly, unable to say anything in return.

“Would you cut the drama,” Amanda said, her shoulders tense.

The chair spun around, revealing a young woman, with pale skin and blonde curls. She was dressed in pink and orange, leather and ruffles clashed in the more costume than clothing she wore. A sylveon rested in her lap, like that of a supervillain who stroked their pet menacingly. Her smile was filled with perfect teeth but stretched a little too wide. While her brown eyes appeared to be empty of any emotion.

“Mandy!” She said in an all to sweet tone.

“Bella,” Mandy replied dryly.

“You don’t look happy to see me.”

“I’m not.”

Bella pouted and stood up from her chair, the sylveon leaped to the floor sending death glares at Umbreon.

“Oh don’t say that,” Bella said, stalking closer and closer to his cousin, “I know you missed me,” she traced a clawed finger over Amandas cheek catching a lock of dark hair and stuffing it behind Amanda’s ear, revealing her hearing aid, “You finally decided to come crawling back, you know you’ll have to beg for that.”

Bella’s hand began to trace lower and lower down Amanda’s body; however, it was quickly slapped away after the fingers reached her chest, “Don’t touch me,” Amanda snapped.

“You’re no fun anymore.”

“I’m not hear about the past, I’m here for that,” Amanda pointed to the gold charm on a black string that Bella wore around her neck.

Ash looked to Sir Aaron; the knight nodded in return. That was the necklace they came for.

Bella hummed playing with the charm, “Oh this? Why do you want it?”

“None of your business, now give it back. It’s not yours anyway.”

Bella huffed, “If I remember correctly your mommy gave me this when you refused to apologize to me, after spreading those horrible rumors about me.”

“They’re rumors if they’re true.”

“But no one believed you, did they?” Bella shrugged, “Seems like the truth didn’t do much for you huh? So, my answers no. Now get lost.”

“Wait,” Riley stepped in.

“Riri stay out this,” Amanda said through gritted teeth.

“Riley?” Bella said.

Riley flashed a smile, “It’s nice to see you Bella, surely we can work something out.”

Bella pursed her lips, “Oh I don’t think so.”

“I think we can. Mandy can’t you just apologize?” Riley said looking towards his sister.

Amanda’s composer dropped, and the air grew thick. Ash could see the long crack in Amanda’s soul form as betrayal flooded her aura. Her jaw dropped while her eyes grew wide.

The long silence was eventually broken by a long hysterical laugh. Ash looked to Bella, finding the blonde in stitches, almost fallen to the floor with laughter.

“Oh my gosh! You can’t write shit this good!” Bella exclaimed, “You know if I thought that the day I watch your mom give you up was fun but watching that. Big brother stabbing you in the back? Oh, that’s just beautiful. He doesn’t even need to know what happened he just knows you’re a bad egg.”

Bella clicked her tongue, “You know, just for that I’ll give ya’ll a chance. Beat me in a battle and trinkets yours,” she smirked, leaning closer to Amanda, “Should be easy for you. But wait you don’t like battles anymore do you?”

“I’ll do it,” Ash said stepping forward.

He wasn’t really thinking when he said it. Something just compelled him forward. Maybe it had to do with the mission to get the necklace, maybe it was that he was always up for a fight, or maybe he just wanted this creepy away from Amanda. His cousin clearly wasn’t comfortable with this girl invading her space.

“Don’t-” Amanda locked eyes with him, shaking her head.

Bella snorted, “And just who are you sweetie?”

“Ash Ketchum from Pallettown.”

Bella smirked again at Amanda, “New boyfriend?”

“I’m her cousin,” Ash said flatly.

“Pika.”

Bella hummed, “Alright, I’ll take you on. Winner gets the charm. Michel show, him to the arena. This will be a treat.”

The blond turned around and waved them away with her hand, while Michel shoved them out of the office.

“Are you fucking stupid!” Amanda snapped, hitting Ash on the head the moment they were outside of the office.

“What was that for!” Ash yelled.

“To make sure you still had a head underneath all that hair. Why on earth did you agree to fight her?!”

“Because she wouldn’t give us the necklace without it and she was clearly making you uncomfortable, I wanted to get you out of there as fast as possible.”

Amanda looked confused for a moment before screwing up her face with stress, “You’re an idiot Ketchum.”

“Oh, don’t be like that, it’s gonna be okay. All I have to do is beat her,” Ash said, “You really think I’m that bad at Pokemon battles.”

“It’s got nothing to do with your skill or talent Ketchum. If this were one of your league battles with rules, refs and standards you’d smoak her, but this is the underground ring, trainers here don’t play by the rules.”

“I can handle it, I’ve fought terrorists they don’t play by the rules much either.”

“You’ve never fought Bella. There’s a reason she’s the queen of roundhouse, her battle title is Bella the Brutal. I have watched her kill opponents in the ring.”

(Doesn’t sound much of a queen. Sir Aaron hushed the chatter.)

Ash’s brows furrowed and shook his head, not wanting to believe what just came out of his cousin’s month, “What, A trainer couldn’t do that. A trainer wouldn’t do that.”

“She’s a sociopath, Ash. She doesn’t care about anything but winning and she’ll do whatever it takes,” Amanda sighed, “I just really hope this gamble works, because if we can’t pull out of it without making it worse. Good luck Ketchum, you’re going to need it.”

Chapter Text

The air was heavy with the smell of smoke, sweat and sin. It made her hair heavy and stick to her face. Thin fingers clung to the powered railing, cold to the touch. Amanda bit her lip as she stared at the battle arena below, lit with bright flickering strobe lights. She had to admit the constant flashing hid the bloodstains well.

I am uncertain about this.

Goh scoffed, “Ash can handle anything Bella dishes out.”

Amanda resisted rolling her eyes at their nativity. She wouldn’t say anything. Correcting them will be redundant with everything that was about to go down. They’ll learn. They’ll learn. They’ll learn that not all Pokémon battles are these clean spectacles of power and love. Down here the players didn’t fight fair. Not giving them an outlet in the city, made them slink into the shadows, fall into a place where no rules can be broken, since they’re already breaking all of them.

Ash wasn’t ready for this. That was just a plain fact. Amanda wasn’t a fool she knew her cousin had incredible skill in the ring. But skill didn’t win the battles in this place. It was cunning, and how far you were willing to go to win. Fatal hits, no refs, battle enhancing drugs, everything was allowed in this hellhole of an arena.

“You don’t like this,” Uncle Aaron whispered.

Amanda shook her head, “This isn’t going to work.”

“There’s always a chance Ash will succeed.”

“Even if he does, Bella won’t hand that necklace over.”

“Even if he wins.”

“Even if Ash wins…Bella never loses.”

“Why can’t I be on the field with Pikachu?” Ash asked the weird human in front of him with far too many rings in their nose.

They looked at Ash with a very confused expression, “Do you have a death wish?”

Ash’s brows furrowed, “What no?”

“Then stand where we tell you to stand. Humans stay out of the kill zone,” They said in a tone as if Ash were child, and then walked out of the small chained interior pocket Ash stood in.

Okay this a definitely on the weirder battle fields Ash had been on, and he’s had to deal with a lot of weird battle fields. The illegal battlefield was a round ring, with two chain link fences topped off with barbed wire, that made a little track around the field’s edges. There weren’t places for the trainers to stand. No lines marked the gravel arena bed. Behind him he could feel the hot breath, and throbbing souls, of spectators pressing up against the other fence. It definitely felt unofficial.

Ash looked at Pikachu and Riolu, his Pokémon giving him determined expressions. They were ready to win.

“Let’s do this,” Ash said.

Pikachu leapt from his shoulder into the starting position, Riolu standing next to the mouse, the door on the inner fence just ahead of them. Bella decided on a double battle, last Pokémon standing give the trainer the win. Michal had showed him how the arena worked, when the announcer called the door would be opened via a remote electrical lock and piston hinge. Riolu and Pikachu would enter alone, while Ash stayed in the space between the two fence rings.

The music stopped, and the strobes shifted in color from red to white.

“We have a very special battle for you ladies and gents,” A man mic-ed up on the DJ stand said in the middle of his crowd of loudred, “We have a challenge to the throne!”

Ash could hear the crowd begin to whisper, as surprise and anticipation rippled through their beings.

“Tonight, We shall bare witness to our beloved queen! Bella the brutal!”

A cheer rang through the warehouse.

“Vs. a newcomer! Please welcome to the bloody battlefield, Ash Ketchum!”

Noise was made at his name aswell, but it was almost like…they weren’t cheering for him to win…they were cheering for something else…

“Pokemon please take you’re marks!”

Ash locked eye with Bella from where she stood across the battlefield. Her serviper was coiling around her neck and shoulders, while the black Charizard, and Sylveon stood ready at the gate.

“Get set!”

She smirked returning her snake to its pokeball.

“Battle!”

Just a second before the gates open, Ash watched as the blond threw a small capsule on the ground. It shattered, and a cloud of purple was released into the air. Charizard and Sylveon began to twitch and thrash, and the gates opened.

Chaos descended on the battlefield. Ash watched in horror as Pikachu and Riolu were locked in the arena with near feral Pokémon. Charizard and Sylveon were in a frenzy of bloodlust. They weren’t battling with any sort a strategy or even a move set. They just zapped, snaped and swiped at Pikachu and Riolu, trying to draw blood and sweat from his Pokémon. Amanda was right, they weren’t fighting for a win, they were fighting for kill.

Ash was caught off guard, there was no reading an opponent in this situation, there was only reaction to make sure you were not fatally shot. All he could do was call dodges since there was no turns or breaks to call for attacks. All Ash wanted to do was get Pikachu and Riolu out alive.

Through the chaos Ash found himself glaring into those cold brown eyes once more. Bella was just smiling on the other side of the arena, playing with the necklace charm. How could she be okay with this? How could she call herself a Pokémon trainer, giving her Pokémon what ever that gas was and letting them go wild.

Pikachu screamed, and Ash looked at his little buddy feeling his heart stop. The black Charizard had pinned the yellow mouse down with his long stained claws. A trail of red blood showed brightly against yellow fur as fresh cuts along Pikachu’s face were etched and left to bleed. Riolu, brave little Riolu, was running towards his friend’s aid only for several ribbons to reach out and wrap him up. Squeezing the pup into a vice hold, before the fairy type began to violently throw and drag the pup around the arena.

There was small laugh over the loud music, Ash looked to his opponent trainer.

“I win,” Bella mouthed.

Then there was a shatter of glass and a purple smog enveloped the room.

Amanda eyed the battle below with great attention, not because she was enjoying it, certainly no, but because she knew how fast this could go down hill and she needed to be ready when it did. Pichu whimpered into her hearing aid at the carnage unfolding. She reached a hand up to rub her little mouse’s head and covered his eyes.

“What is this? This isn’t a battle! It’s bloodshed!” Goh said in disgust, “Where are the refs?! The safety measures.”

“Sorry to tell you this Goh but people here don’t have a rule book to follow,” Amanda said.

Lucario growled, his paws twitching. Uncle Aaron placed a hand on his shoulder, the meaning clear. Don’t do anything stupid. Easier said then done when it was his almost adopted puppy out there getting tossed around like a rag doll.

Riri walked up behind her, and Amanda resisted the urge to fling her fist back and break his nose. She was not in the mood to be lectured.

“What do you want?” She asked in a low voice not taking her eyes off the battle.

“How did you find this place? Or better yet why do you seem familiar with all this?” Riley said.

“It’s none of your business.”

“I think it kind of is.”

“How could any part of my life be your business?” Amanda snapped.

“I’m your brother Mandy, it’s my job to keep you safe to keep you out of places like this!”

“Riri, shut up, you don’t get to pull the older sibling card. Maybe I could believe it, but after 13 years of nothing? And what you pulled in that office. I know I can’t trust you.”

“First off I was training, and you shouldn’t be that mad at me, when you answered none of my letters.”

“Letters?” Amanda raised a brow, “You never-”

There was a scream, and all attention was once more on the field. Amanda watched in horror as Riolu was thrown up to the ceiling the poor pup, was slammed into a network of shotty pipes. Her eyes grew wide as rusted out screws and metal shattered like glass and a purple mist rained down from the dirty rotten heaven from which it came.

“Shit,” she growled, ripping pokeballs off of her belt and returning Umbreon and Pichu she locked eyes with Goh, “Recall Raboot now.”

Amanda dropped her bag and began to rifle through it furiously.

“What is that stuff?” Goh said, as she heard the high-pitched noise of a pokemon returning two times (good riley decided to follow her advice, she’d hate for Lulu to get hit with this stuff).

Pulling out a long scarf and plastic water bottle, Amanda wet the cloth before turning to Lucario, “It’s battle enhancing drug in gas form. They make the stuff and run it through the pipes to ripen it. It makes the Pokémon feral, ready to fight like that. You cover your snout,” Amanda snapped wrapping the wet scarf around the aura pokemon’s head, covering his mouth and nose.

“Aren’t those illegal?” Goh asked looking more and more panicked.

“Once more, no rule book!” Amanda snapped, “And we need to get out of here before-”

Screams came from down below, as purpled smogged up the room. The music suddenly shifted to something far more violent. Random attacks flashed and blasted through the balcony and even the roof, breaking more pipes letting more gas loose.

“-that happens,” Amanda said.

The platform underfoot began to shake, coming loose from its supports with a shriek. A large explosion rose up from the ground and Amanda felt herself get thrown back, she flipped over in the air before landing on hard gravel. She choked and coughed as she got to her feet. A large flame rippled nearby, and a large roar echoed nearby, and Amanda knew where she was. The battle arena.

This was her chance.

Amanda bit her lip, closing her eyes. Blackness over taking the purple cloud she was lost in.

“C’mon, c’mon,” she muttered, and a smile stretched across her face, at the blue figures developing in the black.

In the swirl of panicked souls that ran and raved around her, she picked out the ones of her cousin, the Pokémon and one more. A soul that dimly flickered with anger and zero regrets, with a large brighter flare of aura hanging from their neck. She knew who it was, and Amanda was not letting her get away with this again.

Her feet were beneath her and she was running within seconds. Gravel crunched beneath her boots. A jolt of blue power flurried through her arm as she griped the chain-link door, and the metal lock exploded and broke. Amanda ran down a short length of a ring between the fences before she caught up to Bella.

She leaped on to the blond tackling her to the ground. Bella rolled around, gripping Amanda arms, clawing at her with her long nails. She wrenched an arm free and sent a fist flying into the pinned girl’s nose. Amanda opened her eyes and glared down at the blond. She relished at the sight of blood trinkling down Bella’s face, but quickly turned her attention to the necklace. Taking advantage of Bella’s dazed state, Amanda ripped the necklace off of her, snapping the black thread holding it in place.

Amanda picked herself up, “Don’t ever try to hurt my family again,” She spat.

“You’ll pay for this Gen,” Bella growled, as she ran back into the arena.

“Pikachu! Riolu!” she heard Ash screaming.

Ash? Shit he wasn’t still in here was he?

“CHUU!!!!!!!” A large bolt of lighting shot passed her in static frenzy.

She startled, almost tripping and falling to the floor. She shut her eyes again and the world of blue returned to her. The Pokémon in the ring were frazzled, their souls flaring in a way that even an amateur like Amanda could interpret as panicked, angry, and in pain. Through the chaos, she found a soul that gleamed like blue fire and ran to her cousin, gripping his arm.

Ash let out a shriek at the contact, “Shut up it’s me,” Amanda quickly said, “C’mon we need to get out of here.”

“Not without Pikachu and Riolu,” Ash choked on the gas in the air.

Amanda growled biting her lip and looking towards the four frenzied souls not ten feet away. She rattled through the options at hand. She let go of Ash and reached into the pocket inside of the jacket lining. With purchase her fingers gripped a small soft bag and pulled it out.

“You still have Riolu’s pokeball?” She coughed.

“Yeah.”

“You handle Riolu, I got Pikachu,” Amanda said, before running towards the static like soul.

Oh Arecus what was she doing?! Running straight into the dang fire-fight?!

Amanda couldn’t really explain what happened in then next few moments, somehow, she managed to wrestle the feral yellow mouse to the ground and dump the contents of the bag on the little Pokémon. The bright green sparkling powder trinkled down on to the electric type, and Pikachu was asleep in seconds. Amanda was so grateful that she decided to collect Roserade’s excess sleep powder.

She breathed a sigh of relief, before a large thunderclap was heard, the world folded around her, and Amanda was dumped onto damp grass, Pikachu in her arms with clean air filling her lungs. Many footsteps were on her in moments, and she waved them off when her uncle and cousin came over.

“Would you quit making such a scene, I told you she’s fine.”

A voice echoed above her, and Amanda tried not to roll her eyes at the psychic legendary who no doubt just teleported her to this forest area they were in. The nighttime Pokémon chirping loudly throughout the wood drenched in moonlight that surrounded them.

“Are you alright?” Uncle Aaron said.

Amanda coughed, “I need a shower,” she handed over Pikachu to Ash explaining the sleep powder thing.

“I’m with you on that,” Goh shuttered, “After being in that place…I feel gross. And it was all for nothing since we didn’t even get that dang necklace!”

Amanda huffed, pulling out the charm from her inner jacket pocket, “Actually.”

Ash let out a cackle, “You got it?! How?!”

“Ran Bella down and punched her in the face,” Amanda said taking Uncle’s Aaron’s offered hand for help getting to her feet.

Lucario chortled, clearly approving of her actions.

“Mandy,” Riley groaned shaking his head.

“Oh, shut up Riri, you didn’t do shit,” Amanda said, “I think this is yours,” she handed the charm over to her uncle.

Uncle Aaron held the charm like it was this priceless treasure. Cradling it so delicately, like it would shatter away with a mere baby’s breath.

“Is the one we were looking for?” Ash asked.

“Yes,” Uncle’s voice was slightly choked, “it is. The key to the inner sanctum.”

“You must keep it safe now. Anwir is looking for it as well.”

“We’ll make sure it doesn't fall into the wrong hands, thanks for the save Mewtwo,” Ash said.

The legendary nodded before warping off himself.

Goh popped his lips, “Great, just great. Drop us off into the middle of a random forest, great.”

Amanda took in the forest around her, a sense of familiarity washed over her, “We’re back on the property.”

“Good! I need dinner!” Ash exclaimed, Pikachu sleepily beginning to stir in his arms.

Amanda wasn’t worried the electric type was waking up. The unprocessed stuff, like in the pipes never lasted long and sleep powder usually overridden its effects.

On tired legs and sore feet, the group picked themselves up from the ground and began walking through the forest part of the Gen family property. Making their way towards the manor, ready to call it a night. Umbreon and Pichu broke themselves out of their pokeballs, halfway home, not wanting to be separated from their trainer, Amanda found herself smiling at their loyalty. Lulu quickly followed suit.

The gravel driveway was noisy under foot as they approached the manor, the large home now mere yards away. Amanda’s smile dropped and her stomach sank as she spied an expensing silver car parked out front.

Mother was home.

Chapter Text

Sir Aaron was once more hit with a sense of déjà vu, when he finally met the mistress of the Gem Manor. Lorelei Gen was a twisted image of his sister and niece. The same dark hair, pale complexion and stormy grey eyes. Yet, the knight at once recognized that this woman was a complete stranger to him.

With Amanda there was small familial connection that, all be it slowly, grew as they spent time together. The girl who wore his sister’s face eventually became her own person in Sir Aaron’s mind, his niece. A child of brilliant potential and spite, and Sir Aaron couldn’t wait until the day she lowered her walls to him fully, and think of him as family. However, same couldn’t be said for Amanda’s mother.

Despite the similarities between the two, Sir Aaron felt no familial attachment to the elder Gen. There was something un-welcoming about her presence. Perhaps it was the face her teeth were far to bright, or that her smile didn’t reach her eyes. Maybe it was the formal manner of which she carried herself. Sir Aaron only knew that he couldn’t trust this woman.

His nephew very clearly didn’t share Sir Aaron’s hesitance. The moment Riley saw his mother, he smiled like there was no tomorrow, and the knight saw a swell of deep love and affection in the younger aura user’s soul. Lorelei smiled too, however there was no swell in her aura like that of her son’s. There was pride in her heart at the sight of her first-born, but it wasn’t for her son. Goh was also quick to marvel, though that had more to do with Lorelei’s stature and the child’s thirst for knowledge.

Ash was wary, though. Sir Aaron’s descendant, leaning closer while the mother and son reunited, to whisper, “I don’t think she’s actually happy. My mom doesn’t look at me like that when I come home after a gym run.”

Sir Aaron could only nod at the lad’s assessment. Ash’s instincts were good, but now was not a good time to unpack them. Especially when it came to his niece’s state.

The knight had noticed the change in Amanda’s demeaner the moment she laid eyes on the silver chariot out in front of her manor. She stiffened, her aura rippling with fear. It was rather jarring, the only time that Sir Aaron had seen his niece scared was whenever the Bella girl had gotten too close, and even then, she never froze. However, the moment Amanda eyed that car, she halted mid-step, and her eyes grew wide with true fear. That car meant something unsavory to her.

And it only got worse when they entered the house, and Lorelei was in sight. Amanda shut down, biting her tongue and keeping her eyes on the hard woods of the floor. She stood straight, and didn’t react. Appearing more like a doll, then a living woman.

“Oh Riley darling,” Lorelei said, “You should’ve told me you were coming home for a visit, I would’ve planned a gala.”

Riley laughed, shaking his head, “It’s fine mom, it was kind of supposed to be a surprise.”

Lorelei huffed, “Oh dear, you know I don’t enjoy unknown variables. And I see you have brought some.”

“Yeah, recently there’s been some genealogical discoveries,” Riley said, “Aaron and Ash are distant relatives.”

Lorelei raised an almost judgmental brow, fixing a predatory look on Sir Aaron and Ash, “Relatives?”

Sir Aaron smiled as she approached and offered his hand, but only to be polite, “Aaron it’s a pleasure.”

Lorelei’s hand felt cold in his, she hummed, “You’re Northern Kantoian?”

Sir Aaron nodded curtly, sending a mental signal to Lucario to keep quiet, “Yes, actually. What gave me away? The accent?”

Lorelei nodded in turn, “I was unaware that we had any extended relatives in that area,” She chuckled a hollow sound, “I’m sure you didn’t decide to reach out to try and break into our vault.”

“Believe me madam,” Sir Aaron said, “Ash and I had no reason to believe that we are related to a family of your social status.”

Lorelei nodded, “Oh I’m certain you did.”

Grey eyes flicked from him and narrowed at the sight of his niece. Amanda still stood as stiffly as she did before. Not daring to make a sound or meet her mother’s eyes. Lorelei strutted over, clicking her tongue in disapproval.

“Amanda, child,” Lorelei reached out tugging the lock of hair still behind Amanda’s ear forward covering her hearing aid once more, “What have I told you about dressing properly when we have guests?”

“Mom she just got back. She hasn’t had time to freshen up,” Riley said.

Lorelei smiled, “Of course, Amanda go change and get the boys ready will you. Mrs. Rose will be done with dinner in a few minutes, and I do wish to have tea with my meal.”

With that Amanda was out of the room faster than Sir Aaron could blink, and left in her wake was a rather uncomfortable feeling her wake. Lorelei herded the rest of them into the dinning hall, talking about her recent discoveries in a boasting manner.

“Do not speak of the reason we’re here to Professor Gen,” Sir Aaron sent to Ash and Riley through telepathy.

“Got it.” Ash answered quickly catching on the skill.

“Why? She’s my mother, we can trust her,” Riley thought, his words a little wobblier due to inexperience.

“No offence meant to your mother Riley, however I fear I don’t think I can handle her interrogating me on matters that even we do not understand, yet.”

“I’ll let Goh know,” Ash said before cutting off the connection.

Sir Aaron could feel the confusion and displeasure coming from Riley at his request, but the knight could not find regret in his choice. Lorelei continued to only speak to either Riley or Goh once they were sat at the dinner table. She wanted to know how her son’s studies have been going, and Goh was eager to ask Lorelei about her own research. Though, even if Sir Aaron wasn’t a researcher himself, it appeared to him that Lorelei refrained from telling Goh the whole truth.

Eventually the meal was served, and as Sir Aaron thanked Mrs. Rose for her cooking Amanda walking into the room with the twins in tow. The Knight puzzled at his niece and youngest Nephew’s appearance. The twins were dressed in more formal suits, their wild hair slicked back and tamed.

And Amanda…

Sir Aaron barely recognized her. His niece was a fan of disguises, and would wear a number of styles if they were out in public to conceal her identity while they were on the run. However, if they were in for the day, she generally stuck to her black eye and lip paint, along with the many piercings and dark clothing. She was always happier when dressed in them. Yet, the woman in front of him was practically the opposite of that niece.

Amanda wore a kimono styled shirt with long flared sleeves, in pastel purple and while. A pair of simple black pants was worn underneath and silver slippers on her feet. Her goth style make up was traded for a bare face, her glasses missing entirely, and the whites of her eyes were tinted red with irritation. She wore a wig, with long straight black hair, fully covering her ears. A steaming pot of tea in her pale hands. Amanda sat the boys at the table, before setting a cup in front of her mother and filling it before doing the same for Sir Aaron.

Only then did she sit. At Goh’s side. The farthest seat from the rest of her family, with her mother at the head, and her brothers at her sides. The conversation continued to drone on. Lorelei did address the twins, but it was only about their schooling and science projects.

The knight honestly began to wonder if the professor had actually forgotten if he and Ash existed. However, all good things must come to an end.

“So, Aaron, how exactly did you and Riley meet?”

Sir Aaron cleared his throat, “Well you can say, that Riley and I are in the same realm of study.”

“Ah, so you are a man of science,” Lorelei said, suddenly appearing interested.

“More so of history,” Ash said through a mouthful.

Lorelei was not pleased with Ash’s interjection, but didn’t speak up about it, “History? Perhaps then you can tell me your passion?”

“Anthropology. Tell her you study Anthropology. Specifically, from the medieval era.”

The voice was very quiet in his mind, but Sir Aaron listened to his niece’s whispers intently. It was the first time since entering the house he had seen her take initiative, and it was a far better lie than he could’ve come up with. Leave it to the Actress to make the best cover stories.

“Anthropology,” Sir Aaron said, “Specifically on the medieval era.”

Lorelei clicked her tongue, she was not impressed, “Ah, the study of how the cultures long dead lived. It’s a rather redundant area of research if you want my opinion. However, I understand how this is the reason leading to you and my son meeting. Someone who knows the medivel era well, you must have heard of Aura Guardians.”

“I have a decent grasp on the subject,” Sir Aaron said, flatly, and the lads next to him just barely managed to hold in their laughter, “Your son is blessed, with abilities such as his.”

“I knew he was special from the moment he was born,” Lorelei said.

“Mom,” Riley fussed, his cheeks pinking.

“Madam Gen,” Mrs. Rose cleared her throat, entering the dinning hall.

Lorelei sighed, “Yes.”

“You have a call on the landline, she says its urgent.”

Lorelei shook her head, but stood up, “Excuse me.”

Just as the door to the dinning hall closed, Ash let out a breath, “Jeez, she’s intense. Riley how are you so chill when half of you is from that?”

“She’s not that bad,” Riley shrugged.

The door creaked open, Lorelei entering with a stern look on her face. Grey eyes darted straight to Amanda, after having neglecting such a task all night.

“Amanda, Darling, I need to have a private word with you,” Lorelei said.

Lorelei’s words were cold, and Sir Aaron could feel his niece’s terror as Amanda stood to obey her mother’s commands.

The knight locked eyes with Lucario, sat at a separate table along with the other Pokémon nearby, and gave one clear order.

“Follow them.”

Lucario didn’t need the order to investigate. Umbreon was already on her paws and following her trainer, with waves of nerves washing off of her shadowy soul. Absol oddly joined them.

The aura Pokémon hadn’t interacted with the disaster bringer much since his arrival. However, he knew a protector when he saw one. Absol was constantly watching, waiting, forever aware of his loved ones around him. Be it keeping his mate company, or minding their offspring in the spawning field outside.

“Bree Umber (we haven’t even been home for two days and she’s trying something)”

“Lu Car Lu (this has happened before)?”

“Sol, sol (enough for us to know about it).”

Lucario’s long ear flicked at the sound of human speech. The sound was muffed by distance, but clarity settled in the closer the trio traveled towards the entrance of the manor.

“I honestly can’t believe you would’ve done this,” Lorelei spat, out of view, “It’s a miracle that we are even on good terms with that family, after what you did to their daughter. Now you go after her again!”

“It wasn’t-“

“Do not talk back to me young lady. You are the criminal here not me, not Bella, you. Now, I want you out of this house this instant, however if you are willing to publicly admit to your crimes and return the stolen property, then I will allow 24 hours to get your affairs in order.”

They reached the end of the hall, peering around the corner. The manor’s grand entrance stood before them, but Lucario could only focus on the two human occupying it.

“A good child obeys,” Lorelei continued, “and you’ve never been anything of the sort. Always out galivanting like a spoiled brat when you were supposed to be preparing for your future,” Lorelei snapped, and reached forward and yanked the false fur off of Amanda’s head, “Look at you! Dressed like a first-grade slut. Nothing like a girl of your stature should look or behave.”

Lorelei shook her head, “I have tried so hard to cover up all of your issues, to make you at least a little bit presentable. Yet, it appears that even I am no miracle worker. I don’t want to see you at breakfast in the morning. In fact, I don’t want to see you again. You’re too much of a danger to be around the boys.”

Amanda’s eye grew wide, “Mother Please no!”

“Enough!” Smack “I will not have such a lazy reckless and stupid influence around them! It won’t matter in the few years anyway when you will truly be useless to me and the rest of the family!-“

Lucario sent a mental message to his master and three Pokémon jumped into the fray.

There was a bruise on his sister’s face.

The mark was fresh. A splash of redness against Amanda’s pale cheek. Riley wasn’t sure what happened moments prior. Sir Aaron and practically leapt from his seat and ran out of the room. Naturally the rest followed, minus, Mrs. Rose and the twins. Riley was glad the children weren’t present.

He had run to Amanda the moment he noticed the mark. His sister flinching away when he got close. What had happened?

He didn’t get a chance to ask.

Mom rushed around him, and gripped Amanda’s arm yanking the younger girl away. There was a click of a lock and a slam of a door and suddenly Riley’s sister was gone. Mom locked the door, and smoothed out her work suit before turning to the group with a flustered smile.

“I apologize for you having to witness that. Amanda has been having some behavioral issues. Do not worry, she will not bother you for the remainder of your visit,” Mom said.

Sir Aaron pursed his lips, “With all do respect, madam I’m more concerned for the girl you just threw out into the cold.”

Mom laughed, “Oh don’t worry, she’ll be allowed to come back in once, she comes to her senses. After all she’s lucky I didn’t call the police after what’s she’s done.”

You struck her.

Riley froze at that proclamation. Lucario’s words ringing through out his mind. Denial was quick to sow its seeds, after all Mandy was mom’s little girl. They would spend hours playing dress up and making baking soda volcanos in the back yard.

And yet…

Images of the evening began playing through his head. How Mom never acknowledged his sister beyond doing chores and her appearance. How Mandy didn’t move, and tried to blend in with the wall paper…The mark on his sister’s face…it had a palm and long fingers….

“You hit her?” Riley said. His voice quieting his mother’s speech about disciplining misbehaving children.

Mom paused before turning to him, “I understand this is confusing son, but I do what I must to make sure Amanda isn’t let out of hand.”

“She’s, my sister! Your daughter!”

“She also assaulted a poor girl this afternoon, I can not allow such behavior to continue.”

“Who did she assault?! Mom we were with her all morning.”

“Bella Greylace. You know the sweet little blonde girl, who used to come and play. It’s not enough you’re sister ruined her chances of becoming a doctor, but now has to attack her out of the blue and steal her necklace.”

Riley’s brows furrowed, “Necklace? You mean the one that Amanda was willed from grandma?”

“Amanda lost the rights to any of her inheritance when she falsely accused that poor girl of something so vile.”

“What are you talking about mom?”

Mom shook her head, walking over and taking his hand, “Riley darling, I don’t expect you to understand. After all I know you were attached to your sister when you were younger, but Amanda she has fallen off the beaten path. It’s best to leave her to her own consequences.”

Riley took a deep breath, “What aren’t you telling me.

“It’s nothing you need to concern yourself with my darling,” she said far too sweetly. A signal to back down.

He had always listened. But…

Riley was not going to be stopped this time, “Nothing I need to worry about? Is that why you didn’t tell me about dad?”

Mom’s eyes widened and her smile dropped, “Who told you?”

“No one needed too,” Riley said, not willing to put Mandy back in their mom’s war path, “I mean c’mon mom, dad would never just leave two kids without a father. At some point I would realize he was gone. Now why didn’t you tell me about him. About how I missed his funeral!”

“I-I didn’t want you to be distracted. Darling, you were out there making amazing progress and discoveries. I didn’t want to pull you away from that for something so trivial.”

“Trivial?! He was my father! And now you’re doing the same thing to my sister! Protecting me from her?! Have you lost your mind!?”

“Do not raise your tone with me! Your sister is a poisonous little viper who has destroyed this family and would’ve done the same to our reputation if I hadn’t hidden her away! She is the reason your father is in a grave and I will not allow her to do the same to you or your brothers,” Mom sighed turning away, “But do not worry, with in a few years she will be useless and no one will associate her with any of us again.”

“And what does that mean?”

Mother didn’t answer, only walked away, “I am tired. Mrs. Rose!” She called out to the servant who suddenly made herself present, “I expect the table to be cleaned and the rooms prepped for our guests. I will be returning to the lab for the night and sleeping there.”

The door closed slowly as she exited and Riley was left in shock. His world was spinning out of control. What had happened while he was gone? From the corner of his eye, he watched Umbreon slip out of the house. He followed her. He needed to talk with his sister.

Ash swallowed dryly as the scene in front of him unfolded. The conflict barely lasted a few minutes but it felt like forever. Riley left the room going outside, with Umbreon. While the rest of them took in the remaining silence.

“Soap operas never get that intense on TV,” Ash muttered, flopping down on the nearest couch he could find.

“I don’t understand,” Goh said joining the other teen on the same sofa, “Professor Gen is supposed to be this brilliant scientist, how can she treat her daughter like that.”

I’ve found that humans rarely are honest.

“Pi?” Pikachu’s brows furrowed at the aura Pokémon.

“I had hoped my suspicions were wrong,” Sir Aaron likely whispered to himself.

The room lapsed in silence. The boys on the sofa, while the knight paced. Until the tinkle of clattering porcelain broke the veil of quiet.

Ash looked up at the entrance to the parlor, and saw Mrs. Rose entering. A sad look on the older woman’s face as she walked into the room and set the drinks on the coffee table.

“I take it, Mrs. Greylace’s call was about the fact that Amanda reclaimed the necklace from Miss Bella,” Mrs. Rose said.

“You knew what that call was about?” Goh said.

Mrs. Rose huffed, “I’ve known that girl since she was a baby. When anything goes wrong she runs to her parents and they will believe anything she spits out. Even if it’s not true. Sadly, her influence expands just beyond them as well.”

“Wait a minute, so Amanda just got kicked out because a grown woman tattled on her for taking back what was hers?” Ash said.

Mrs. Rose looked up from setting out the tea, her eyes wide and glistening with unshed rain drops. An aged hand was pressed into puckering lips as the horror of the situation settled. She looked as if her world was crumbling.

“Madam?” Sir Aaron stopped his pacing, looking at the woman with concern.

Mrs. Rose’s voice creaked, “So, she finally did it. Lorelei finally decided to do away with her.”

Sir Aaron’s gaze drifted to the ground, “You were expecting this.”

Mrs. Rose scoffed, “It’s no secret, how Lorelei treats her daughter.”

You knew she was striking Amanda?

“Pika!” the mouse said drowsily.

“The young miss, hides her wounds well. I know that’s no excuse but there’s little I can do. If I went to anyone about the issue, I’d lose my job and access to Miss Amanda and the young sirs. Then those children would really be left alone with Madam Gen. Miss Amanda knows this and told me to keep quiet,” She sighed, “Where is master Riley.”

“Went after Amanda,” Goh said.

“Good, those two need to talk. Maybe now they’ll be ready to listen,” Mrs. Rose said.

Ash bit his lip. Fire burning inside of his soul, as the anger stirred. To think for all the years, he had spent happily in pallettown, his cousin, his family wasn’t growing up happy. She was facing who knows what horrors. Ash pulled out the little Arceus ring charm from inside of his jacket. Brown eyes gazing over it with a sense of saddened realization. Amanda had handed it off to him right before they opened the door, when they arrived and Mewtwo vanished. Did she know what was about to go down? And still tried to keep their mission as a priority.

There was a quiet gasp and the dark-haired trainer looked up to see the old stewardess’s eyes honed in on the gold charm in his palm. Awe and surprise etched into her aging face.

“My word, I never thought I would see that old thing again,” Mrs. Rose said.

“You recognize it?” Ash asked, handing the charm to her.

Mrs. Rose took the pendant into her hands, cupping it like the priceless treasure it was, “Madam Lillian passed away when Miss Amanda was very little. She asked me to hold on to it until we were certain the young miss wouldn’t mistake it for a teether. She took such good care of it, Little Mandy never took it off.”

Sir Aaron bit his lip, his expression a strained mix of curiosity and grief, “If you don’t mind my prying, but if Amanda adored this charm, why did she part with it?”

Mrs. Rose shook her head sniffing, “Lorelei demanded it. After an indecent with the Greylace girl, Madam Gen forced Miss Amanda to give that devil girl the charm as an apology gift, too smooth things over.”

“Apology gift? What did she do?” Goh said.

“Nothing! Nothing at all!” Mrs. Rose sighed, “Miss Amanda has never done anything bad to that girl, well nothing that wasn’t deserved.”

“Then what happened?” Ash said.

Mrs. Rose was quiet for a moment, seemingly debating whether or not if she should say something, before she swallowed setting on a decision, “Something no one saw coming. The Greylaces have been the neighbors of the Gens for generations, many friendships had blossomed between the two, and as such, Miss Amanda and Miss Bella, being so close in age, got along like water and rain when they were little. I always found Miss Bella to be a little odd, a little spoiled, but that was the standard of the children in this community. I thought it was normal. It wasn’t until the girls were about thirteen did I realize something was truly wrong with her.”

Ash leaned in, not wanting to miss a single detail.

“I didn’t see the accident itself,” Mrs. Rose continued, “Only the immediate aftermath. Practice battles were a common pass time between the two. Despite being raised in Ryme, the sport often attracts the attention of the youth. It was supposed to be a simple game to play in the yard,” she sighed, “Me and Master Gen were inside minding the babies, and then heard we this giant explosion outside. We rushed out, expecting screams or panic. But all we heard was laughing.

“Miss Amanda had been knocked to the side, limp on the ground. A large gash in her back and poison running through her. Master Gen ran to his daughter the moment he saw her wounded; he didn’t see the manic gaze in Miss Bella’s eyes as she just stood there and laughed. It was her serviper that struck Miss Amanda with a poison tail. It almost killed the young miss. And never once did I see a speck of remorse from that girl.”

Shock was not a strong enough word for Ash to explain how he was feeling. Bewilderment? Maybe. It didn’t feel angry enough. It wasn’t unheard of for a Pokémon battle to get out of hand. Pokémon were of course powerful, and some times something was misfired, or they just had really bad aim. Those matches always accidents, and were usually redone when trainers and Pokémon were given clean bills of health. However, for a trainer to be hit by a move on purpose. For another person to order their Pokémon to attack their fellow trainer. It was such a taboo that Ash never even considered it happening in real life.

No wonder Amanda had been so scared at the underground battle arena.

“Miss Amanda was in the hospital for two weeks afterward, I don’t know the details but some the damage the poison did was permanent. She was never the same.”

Chapter Text

The night air felt clammy, or maybe that was just his nerves.

Riley could barely process the world surrounding him. The recent events still holding strong. The mark on his sister’s face. Mom’s fury. It was so cold; Riley had never seen anything like it before. His mother had been stern before, a bit of a perfectionist yes, but never had Riley thought would she lash out at Mandy. How long had this been going on? Riley felt sick at the thought. He had no idea this was happening.

Guilt hung heavy from his neck at that realization. Did it start when dad died? Had his sister been forced to a life of abuse while grieving the death of her family? How could he have never known?! He should’ve been there! Make sure nothing like this could’ve started much less get to this point. He had made a vow to himself to keep Mandy safe when his sister was born…some brother he was. His only sister had been burning alive and never noticed.

He swallowed bile and choaked back a sob. He couldn’t dwell in his own guilt right now. Mandy needed him more right now. Riley needed to make sure she hadn’t actually run away. He’d never forgive himself if he let her go. The young user had been distant for far too long, and Mandy had paid far too much for his absence.

The wind picked up as Riley searched the large space of his familial property. He tried the places Mandy used to love, but after finding the tree house that was left to rot over the years, he switched gears. The realty of his situation glaring back at him as he scanned the place, he once called home and found little familiarity. The gardens were empty, except for the wilting roses. The eevee field fast asleep in the moonlight muffled by sudden cloud cover. He only made headway in his search, when he reached the sound side of the property. There he picked up on this sense of overwhelming grief.

The emotion wasn’t his own, and for once he understood why. Dress shoes pressed against damp grass, as Riley ran towards the source of the sorrow. Dread dragged his heart to his feet, once he recognized just where he was running too. The family grave yard.

It was one of the older parts of the property. While the manor and grounds had been redone several times throughout the generations of his family, the grave yard had remained untouched. Other than new additions of course.

He opened the metallic gate to burial grounds, it’s lock long broken, and stepped onto the cracked title pathway. Rows and rows of stone pillars and metal plates stretched out before him. No flowers or gifts rested on any of them. The names they bore completely unfamiliar to Riley despite being family. A heavy feeling of dread and grief was draped over the land. Mother used to make this place feel like an honor to be buried in, a place of rest for the brightest of minds. Yet, now the young user wasn’t so sure. Was being laid to rest and forgotten really a fate to be striving for?

The sound of muffled sobs danced to his ear and Riley took off towards it. In the back corner of the yard, underneath the shadows of an old willow tree, his sister kneeled. Her form was hunched over, as if begging a god for forgiveness, her shoulders shuttering with her staggering tears. Riley reached a hand out forwards her only to stumble, once his eyes caught view of what stood in front of Mandy.

The black marble slab was clearly newer than the others in the yard. It was well kept, cleaned, with burnt candles and flowers of various stagings of withering surrounding it. Someone cared for this one. Riley knew who it was for, he didn’t need to read the name etched in copper colored metal.

He bit his tongue, the iron flavor that flooded his mouth was grounding, and made his approach. Umbreon was perched on Mandy’s right side, rubbing her cheek against her trainer’s shoulder in a show of support. The dark type made no move to stop him, as he kneeled on his sister’s left. And…

What did he do now?

The broken young woman in front of him, was not the Mandy he remembered. The Mandy he remembered was girl who loved to laugh, dance and sing. A little girl who would follow him and their parents like a hatchling. A girl who wept over the flowers dying when the winter frost came.

This Mandy, he hadn’t heard her sing or seen her dance. She feared their mother, and now wept for their father who had been lost to them forever.

He didn’t know how to fix this.

Taking a breath, and praying he doesn’t make this worse, he opened his mouth and hesitantly spoke, “I’m sorry.”

She gave no reaction, only continuing to quietly weep.

“I shouldn’t have stayed away. I thought you were okay. Clearly, I was wrong.”

Cautiously, Riley reached out a hand. His fingers gently pulling back a lock of her dark hair and tucking it behind her ear. The hearing aid now on plain display, another harsh reminder of how much she had suffered with out him there.

“It’s not your fault,” Riley said, looking at their father’s grave, “No matter what mom says, dad’s death isn’t your fault. And I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you when it happened.”

Mandy huffed, sluggishly shifting to look at him. Her grey eyes swollen and red with tears, and the bruise on her cheek slowly growing darker as it healed.

“You’re sorry for not lying to me?” She choked out, sorrow and anger stirring in her soul, “Don’t waste your breath on it.”

“Lying? Mandy not your fault.”

“Yes, it is!” She shrieked, tears flooding her eyes once more, “I know it was my fault! If I hadn’t-” she choaked collapsing to the ground once more.

Riley gripped her shoulders pulling her up to face him, she needed to hear this, “It wasn’t! I may not know what happened! But nothing like this could ever be your fault! Mandy…please…I’ll listen…let me in…”

Riley did expect her to answer him. Mandy always seemed to shy away now. He had no reason to believe she would trust him with what happened. He didn’t deserve that trust. But…instead she thrusted herself into his arms, loudly sobbing. Riley, though startled, held her tight, never wanting to let go.

In the back of his mind, he felt something desperately clawing at his thoughts. Riley let them in with out hesitation. Somehow knowing that it was his sister’s soul calling out to him. He would not reject her in this moment. The connection in his mind clasped together sharply. A tsunami of pain and grief hit him like a bolt of lightning. It took everything in him not to choke at the agony they now shared.

What happened?

She answered.

Images began to play in fast succession behind his eye lids. While phantom sensations seized his muscles and bones. A tragedy of truth now revealed to him.

…He’s on the ground. Weakened, and unable to move, while magma slowly replaced his blood as his heart beat pounded against his suddenly small frame. There’s this sense of unwavering terror, clinging to him. Sounds were muffled initially, but they slowly grew more and more faint. Was someone laughing? Dad was suddenly there, standing above him. He looked scared, but the world was swallowed by inky oblivion before Riley could dwell on it…

Wait…this never happened to him…

…The smell of antiseptic in the air was strong. Rough, almost scratchy, fabric tangled around him. A hospital room? Dad was in the corner, talking to a woman in purple scrubs and a white coat. Riley watched as their lips moved but no voices came out of them. He could feel his vocal cords suddenly stretched but Riley heard no sound. Panic filled him unexpectedly. Why couldn’t he hear them?…

Oh…oh no…

…There was a pad on his lap. A flimsy cheep notebook, and a pen in his hand. “You ready?” was already written on the thin white paper. His oddly thin pale hand, scribbled out, “Yes,” and handed back the pad to their Dad. He smiled silently, looking at Riley, and wrote down on the pad before turning it to face Riley. “Don’t worry, doc said your condition will work with hearing aids. After today we can sing together again.” There was this sense of hope, as if Riley had found a light at the end of a tunnel…

Stop…but no, he needed to see…

…His hand, the slim pale hand was pressed against the radio speaker in the car. The vision remaining forever silent, but he could feel the vibrations of sound through his palm. It didn’t stop the sense of sadness and longing however. He turned against his will looking towards his father who was smiling in the driver’s seat. The front seat suddenly jerked. There were warm arms around him. He felt like he was screaming, but hear no sound…

Black swallowed him…

Eyes opened and pain riddled his body. Something heavy was on him. Rubble pressed into his back uncomfortably. Or what it bits of glass from the shattered windshield. Dad was on top of him, his seatbelt snapped, thrown when the car landed on its side. A set of strong arms were holding him in place, shielding him. The bleariness cleared from his sight, and in sharp clarity, inside the reflection of the cracked far window, he could see large piece of hot metal sticking out of his father’s back. Horror and fear filled his entire being, and for once it wasn’t not it own. For in the reflection, it was his sister’s bloodied bruised face that stared back…

These weren’t his memories…

Black, the whole room was black. Everyone was dressed in black. The new chatter felt far too loud. Mandy stood prim and proper, her dress uncomfortable, but she held firm. “Don’t cry,” Mother whispered in her ear, “If you get upset the twins will too and I can’t allow them to misbehave.” The grave was freshly dug, and she didn’t get to say good bye…

Riley inhaled a sharp breath, his own eyes snapping open. The moonlight graveyard coming into peaceful view once more. He could feel the connection between their souls weakening, but the agony remained. Grief became his own, but with it came anger and understanding. Lagoon blue eyes trailed over to his father’s grave, tears beginning to well. His father died in a car crash. He died, shielding Mandy from the worst of the wreck. Riley choked hugging Mandy closer. He could’ve lost her that day as well.

Then came his anger in full force, as he realized. Mandy was blamed for it. Mother blamed Mandy, and now his sister truly believed it was her fault. It was a freak accident! It didn’t matter if dad was taking her to the doctors! It didn’t matter if he shielded her! It wasn’t her fault! Then she had to live with that false guilt for so long…

No wonder she was mad at him when they reunited.

“I’m sorry,” Riley sobbed, “I’m so sorry!”

“It’s not your fault,” Mandy croaked.

“It is Mandy! You should’ve never gone through this! Not alone! I should’ve reached out more. I should’ve visited. I should’ve been there.”

“Why weren’t you?” Mandy whispered.

“I-I…there’s no good excuse for this…I’m sorry Mandy. I’m sorry I wasn’t here when dad died. I’m sorry I wasn’t here for the aftermath. I’m sorry I wasn’t here when you got,” He stiffened, “sick…”

Anxiety spiked in Riley’s blood. Mandy had been hospitalized at some point…for what? An injury? Something else? Was it…terminal?

“Mandy, the hospital room?” Riley spoke.

“It’s not…It’s not what you think,” Mandy rasped, pulling away and expression of deep shame on her face.

“Mandy, what happened? Are you…?”

She took a deep breath, fresh twin tears slipped from her eyes, “It’s called Usher’s Syndrome. It’s genetic. I’ve had it all my life, but it’s slow going. I got hit with a poison attack, that aggravated it. It made me lose my hearing…and one day…” She choked, “I’ll go blind.”

Riley’s heart dropped into his stomach, before it rose back up to make his throat and chest burn. He looked into his sister’s stormy grey eyes and wondered what it would be like to look into those eyes and know they will never see him again. A memory surfaced at the front of his mind, how mother always made sure to prune the flowers that weren’t a perfect white from the garden. He reached out and pulled her back into an embrace.

“How long?” He asked after a minute.

“They’re not sure. They don’t know how much damage the poison did. I might have anywhere from two to ten years, before…before…”

“Don’t go there. You might be blind by then, but I’m not going away. Not again. I’ll be your eyes if it comes to it.”

Mandy took a deep shuttering breath, “I’m not sure if can I believe you.”

“Then let me prove you wrong.”

Riley didn’t deserve a second chance, Arceus he didn’t. But he was going to grab this one with all his might and never let go. He had missed his sister, and nothing was going to rip them apart again.

Chapter Text

 Sir Aaron was grateful for the silence that echoed throughout the manor. Professor Gen, thankfully left after all the chaos she caused. The lads now rested in their temporary chambers. Though it wasn’t willingly. Ash in particular wanted to wait until his cousins returned before retiring for the night, however the exhaustion of the caught up to him quickly. With the help of Mrs. Rose the knight managed to get the both of the older lads to bed. The twins were another story. Carter and Constance were inconsolable, thinking that they’ll never get to see their sister again. The twins’ cries broke Sir Aaron’s heart but sadly he wasn’t close enough to be much help, and Mrs. Rose was alone in tending to them.

As for the Knight himself, he honestly couldn’t find it in him to be tired. He soul alit with too much righteous fury to find himself rest. Sir Aaron had seen many of domestic spats, usually between his own sister and mother, but even when Emily frustrated their mother, never in his life had Sir Aaron fathomed that mother despised Emily to the point of disowning her. The knight bit his lip, letting the taste of copper blood keep him from acting out in wrath. It’s been hours since the altercation and he was still simmering.

However, it wasn’t just the anger that was keeping the knight from his own slumber. Fear lingered in the back of his mind. The blackened chains and veil that surrounded Amanda’s soul tightened and pulsed during the confrontation, dimming her spirit almost to shadow. The last time Sir Aaron had seen her aura in shut a state, blood was running down her arms. He needed to check on his niece just to be safe.

The guest wing was on the other side of the manor from where the permanent residents resided, so the knight had left Lucario to watch over the slumbering lads. Though, Sir Aaron could tell that his auratic partner preferred to stay. Riolu had remained in his poke ball for most of the night, letting the horrid mist be breathed in at the underground arena ware off. Ash decided to let the little one out for a bath after remembering the state of the place, and the pup was still rather lethargic. No doubt Riolu was now currently curled up with Lucario, and the thought warmed Sir Aaron’s heart a little. Even when young guardians were matched with pups rather than adults, it was still required for the little ones to remain with their parents part time until three years of age. Riolu didn’t have that. This was good for both of them.

Sir Aaron was unsure which door led to Amanda’s bedroom, however closing his eyes he found...many souls present in a room on the left side of the wing. He opened the lavender colored door as quietly as he could, peeking inside. Seemed as if the knight wasn’t the only one who wanted to check in. Amanda lay asleep on the bed, still dressed in the clothing she wore at dinner. Tucked in around her, was Lulu, Umbreon, Pichu, Roserade, and the twins, whom all of which were equally dead to the world. Looking at her aura, Sir Aaron was grateful that the black chains had loosened somewhat, and the veil thinned. It was no where near healthy, still very much inflamed with shadow, but it was better then before.

A quiet sigh sounded from the side of the bed. Riley sat slouched in a large armchair, head in his hands. Exhaustion bleeding from his very being. Absol laid on the soft carpet next to his feet, seemingly still awake.

“You should be in bed,” Sir Aaron spoke quietly, crossed the threshold into the room.

“I know,” Riley answered, looking towards his sister, “But…It’s…it’s just…” he sighed, running hand over his face.

“I know, we’re all worried for her Riley,” Sir Aaron spoke.

Silence settled for a moment, and Sir Aaron was tempted to let it continue, however there was too much that needed to be said.

“Are you alright?” The knight prodded.

“Probably not,” Riley huffed, “I-I mean…I’m scared. I’m sad. But most of all I’m angry, like why didn’t know about all this? Why didn’t I know this was happening? Am I really that bad of a brother that I didn’t think to check on my sister too see if she was, okay?” He stood up, and walked out of the room…

Sir Aaron and Absol followed the younger user with out much prompting, making sure to close the door behind them. The children didn’t need to be woke up, but the incoming blow up.

“I could’ve come home at any time!” Riley continued, pacing the hall as he ranted, “I should’ve come back! Even if it was just for a day! But no! I was too busy selfishly chasing ghosts and a pipe dream!”

“Wanting to understand a part of yourself isn’t selfish,” Sir Aaron tried to cut in.

“Maybe it wasn’t! But I shouldn’t have made Mandy pay for it! I’m her big brother! I’m supposed to keep her safe! I promised I would when we were little, yet I left her with one worse than anything I could imagine,” Riley swallowed, “Why did I let this happen?”

Sir Aaron stepped forward placing a gentle hand on his nephew’s shoulder. Absol rubbing against the younger’s leg, in comfort.

“You didn’t let this happen,” Sir Aaron said, “The only one responsible for all this is the witch who drove you and Amanda apart.”

Riley jerked away, “Easy for you to say, you don’t have a sister who’s arms are covered with scars and a lived a life time of nightmares under your watch!”

Sir Aaron pulled away, trying hard not to flinch at the actuation. His nephew’s rage was strong, rippling outward from his being. Though, the knight’s recoiling was due to another reason. The elder bit his tongue, wondering how to sooth the situation.

“I did have a sister,” Sir Aaron eventually settled on saying.

Riley’s fury almost immediately dimmed.

“Her name was Emily,” the knight continued, “She was married off, had no choice in what she became. The only thing she could choose was how her life ended, and she drove a dagger into her heart in the rose garden outside. I was stuck in rock. I didn’t know. I couldn’t save her.”

Riley’s mouth gaped mildly as Sir Aaron spoke, and it left the younger stammering, “I’m sorry…I-I shouldn’t have said -”

“No, let me finish,” Sir Aaron cut him off, “I understand your anger, Riley. I was unaware of Emily’s suffering, and by the time I learned what happened…it was already too late. Amanda is still here, Riley. You have time to save her.”

“I-I just…I don’t know what to do…” Riley mumbled, leaning against the closest wall.

“Nor do I,” Sir Aaron said reaching out to his nephew once more, “But sometimes we just need to take a step forward even if blind.”

Night had fallen on Pallettown with the calmness that only a small town could achieve. Like most of the recent days, Delia was home alone. Her sink filled with the little dishes she used that day. She had eaten breakfast and lunch at the restaurant, and while she felt bad about it, those plates were looped in with the customers’ and her staff washed them. Brown eyes looked down at the single plate, cup and fork coated in soapy sudds, with subtle sorrow. It seemed wrong to have so little to take care of.

Sure, Delia had her restaurant and her house hasn’t technically been filled since the old Ketchums had passed, with just her and Ash living in it. However, sometimes her home was just so painfully empty. She hadn’t really noticed it when Ash was little, but after he left for his journey, the quiet rooms became far more evident. Mimey helped, but now he was gone too. By now the empty home should be familiar, and in a way it was, but it wasn’t pleasant to her. She had tried to talk with the other moms in the neighborhood about it, but most of them had multiple children, or had partners, so they didn’t really understand.

Delia sighed as she finished drying the dishes. A sudden weariness washed over her. Maybe she should call it and early night. She had a meeting with some suppliers in the morning anyway.

She went to put the plate in the drying rack…and something didn’t feel right. There was this quick pinch in her head and the hair on the back of her neck stood up. You know that feeling of being watched? Well Delia was feeling it in that moment. Trying not to be to obvious she wiped her hands on the dishtowel and calmly walked to her bed room. She made a quick trip to her dresser, but didn’t grab any clothing.

Pallettown was usually a very safe place to live. Most people in the community were good folks, and didn’t cause much trouble. However, that didn’t mean Deila didn’t have any form of protection for herself. She was still a single woman who lived on her own. It was a sad truth that her home would likely be the one robbed. Though, if any robber came here, she’d make them regret it. From behind her socks, she pulled out the small handgun she had gotten years ago. Mrs. Ketchum taught Delia to shoot as soon as she could leave Ash alone for a few hours. The world was in chaos at the time, but even in peace Delia never forgot those lessons.

She thought about hitting the emergency button on her phone, but it this was false alarm, she’d hate to waste the little police department that Pallet had. Her living room, and kitchen seemed to be the same, but there was this sense of something off. She tightened her hold on her firearm.

“If anyone is in here, come out,” Delia spoke in an authoritative tone, “I’m armed, but I don’t have to use this.”

At first there wasn’t an answer, and she almost breathed a sigh of relief. Then a deep throated chuckle echoed through out her home, sending ice up and down her spine.

“My, my, my, you certainly are a fiery one…” slithered a hallow voice.

Delia steeled herself, ready to defend her home, as she scanned the room, “Where are you? I’m still open to not pressing charges when the cops show up.”

Someone laughed…right behind her.

Delia whirled around, smacking who ever it was with the heel of her gun, and backing away.

The man she hit let out a grunt at the contact with the cold metal barrel. However, he remained unmoved. Still towering over her and glaring with his empty black eyes. Snow hair caught a ray of moonlight from her window, but Delia didn’t marvel at the color, only raised her firearm and continued to put distance between her and the intruder.

“And you’ve got the bite to go with your bark,” The man grumbled, rubbing his cheek.

“I don’t know who you are, or what you want, but you better get out of my home right now,” Delia said.

The man hummed, not looking a bit intimidated, “Oh Madam, I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

“Oh, you will.”

He laughed, and the sound made her feel sick, “I can see why he liked you.”

A dark smoke suddenly seeped from his eyes, and Delia fired, however the bullet merely slipped through him as if made of shadow. Delia dropped her gun and bolted. She had to get to her neighbor’s house. Find help, because this wasn’t a normal break in that was for sure. However, the middle-aged woman barely got to her front door before blackened vines reached out an snagged her limps.

Struggling against the vine proved fruitless, and Delia didn’t have the time to contemplate over the sudden appearance of a Venusuar in her living room. As the white-haired man crept closer to her, his teeth twisting into a smile.

“I can also see why father never approved of you,” he purred.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Delia snapped. Was he psychotic?

“So you don’t remember either,” the man huffed, “Well, don’t worry I’ll explain in all due time.”

“How about you get it over with and let me go,” Delia said, with much sass.

The man chuckled, “You won’t get away that easily.”

A cold pale hand clamped down on to her forearm and Delia choked as pain flooded her vision. Cold heat stabbed her skin and heart. She lost control of herself, unable to feel or move her limbs. Her pulse almost being stopped and set on an uncomfortable forceful rhythm.

Delia was almost grateful for the relief of the void in unconsciousness.

Chapter Text

Amanda had woken up feeling both exhausted and oddly refreshed. Where there was a heavy weight around her heart, seemed to had dropped a few pounds. She felt groggy at first, sleep clinging to her body and mind. Awareness coming in a trickle as the memories of the previous evening replayed. Some part of her felt she should be mortified, felt like she should be running from her bed to pack and leave before she could do anymore damage to her family. However, in that moment of resting on her bed, still dressed in her formal dinner clothes, the young woman couldn't find it in herself to care. It was a rare moment of weariness over powering her almost constant anxiety and stress.

Umbreon was awake, but the Dark type seemed content to remain in the silky bedding at Amanda's side. Pichu was still asleep on a satin pillow, tiny snores escaping from the mouse, and Roserade was probably still in his pokeball. So, there wasn't any prompting to get out of bed from her partners. However, her skin felt like glue and dust was sticking to it, and there was no going back to sleep until she had showered.

With all the enthusiasm as a Snorlax during naptime, Amanda peeled herself from her mattress, grabbed a towel and a change of clothes, and trudged into her on suit bathroom. The hot water was wonderful, washing away the dirt, grim and emotions from last night in rivers of warmth. After drying off, she dropped rubbing alcohol in her ears letting them dry out, before inserting her hearing aids. The rotten taste on her tongue was scrubbed off with berry flavored toothpaste, and she parted her hair down the middle of her skull. The black and blue spikes, weighed down by wetness, fell into a chaotic, yet somewhat symmetrical pattern, framing her face and covering her ears.

By the time she walked back into her room, clad in a reverse-tie-dye black t-shirt and blue jeans, Amanda felt refreshed. Umbreon was awake and upon seeing her trainer, gently leapt off the bed and nuzzled Amanda's thigh.

"I'm okay," Amanda mumbled, scratching the dark type's head.

Pichu was still only half awake, the little yellow mouse grumbling at having to get up. Amanda smiled at the electric type fondly. He was never a morning Pokémon.

Her fuzzy socks slipped on the hard wood floors of the manor as Amanda made her way to the kitchen. It was probably a little late to help Mrs. Rose prep breakfast for the twins, but the young mistress of the house couldn't ignore the habit that drove her to move.

Mrs. Rose didn't allow Amanda to help her with the breakfast that morning. Usually, the little elderly cook would at first decline the assistance, but eventually give in and let the young mistress help, however that wasn't the case this morning. Amanda's governess was quiet firm that she wouldn't lift a finger in that kitchen and shoved her out, even getting Absol to escort her away.

Weariness began to seep back in, numbing her senses the further Amanda got from the kitchen. She didn't have a goal to focus on now. No destination either, leaving her entirely at the whim of the two dark types that walking alongside her.

"...I love my island home..."

Amanda blinked, that song was familiar, and the voice was hers. However, the tone of which it was sung...that was from an era long passed.

"...it's my destiny..."

Fear spike in her for a moment. Why was that song playing? Mother hated it. It was banned from the manor, along that show...

"...with you feeling free..."

Confusion bringing her back from her disassociation, Amanda stalked forward. Entering the entertainment lounge before she recognized where in the manor she was.

"That can't be Mandy," Carter spoke.

What was going on?

Upon entering the room, Amanda was met with a rather puzzling sight. Riley was perched in one of the couch corners, Lulu curled up on cushions next to him, seemingly half asleep. Uncle Aaron and Goh were in a game of Checkers, near the window on the right side of the room. Leaving Ash, and the twins on the plush rug in front of the rather large TV screen. Speaking of the TV, why on earth was it playing Melemele Mermaids?!

"Yeah, and Mandy never gets in the water. She can't be a mermaid," Constance said.

Riley laughed, "Believe it or not that is your sister."

The boys looked unconvinced.

"We're not stupid, Riley. We know mermaids don't actually exist," Constance said.

Ash let out a gasp of false horror, "Who told you such blasphemy!?"

"Pika!"

"I did," Amanda said, crossing the threshold in to the room, "No point in hiding the truth from these two, they're smarter than they look."

Amanda could see the concern in the eyes, as everyone finally took full notice of her arrival. The atmosphere suddenly tensed, much to the young woman's exhaustion. She did not want to deal with crazy questions about last night. Amanda opened her mouth to communicate...something, but oddly enough Ash beat her to the punch.

"Yeesh, way to kill the magic Cuz," Ash said, "Cool TV shows like these are supposed to be real until their at least nine."

Amanda picked up on the playful tone and rolled her eyes, "And this is why you shouldn't have younger siblings, Ketchum, you'd let them get away with way too much."

Ash huffed, clearly not offended, and went back to watching the show.

"Why didn't you tell us you were on TV?" Carter asked, Crunchy the Gibble in his arms.

Amanda hummed uncertainly, rubbing the back of her neck, "Just never came up. Would've you have wanted to know?"

The elder sister wasn't expecting her younger brothers' eyes to begin to sparkle. Carter's baby fat filled cheeks stretching into a large excited smile.

"Of course!" her little brother exclaimed, "It's so cool to see someone we know on TV!"

Amanda's brows furrowed, "You see Mother on the news all the time, when she announces big projects remember?"

"The news is boring and stressful," Constance said, "This is a lot cooler."

"But its unrealistic," Amanda said.

"That's what makes it cool!" Carter said, his twin nodding in agreement, before they turned back to the screen.

"Really?" Amanda wondered.

"Hey, don't sell yourself Mandy, it's a good show," Riley said, in which Lulu barked in agreement.

That made Amanda pause, "You watched it?"

"Every episode," Riley said with a smile, "When I heard you got a starring role, I couldn't resist. Every time I was in a town I caught up with the most recent episodes. My personal favorite was the Siren Episode, your singing was very pretty."

Amanda was almost flabbergasted. For many reasons, never did she think Riley would've watched the show. First off it was for little girls, second, he was doing very important work when the show was first coming out. He shouldn't have had the time...but he did. The Siren episode Riley had mentioned was by far the least popular filar plot that they show had. But it was also one that was focused on the character Amanda played, digging into her origins as a foreign mermaid from the north. It's writing however was cheesy and the pay off from the set up happened way to late to make it feel connected.

Riley like that one?

A hand was suddenly on her shoulder, and Amanda stiffened before recognizing the pale warmth of her Uncle's touch.

"How are you feeling?" Uncle Aaron asked quietly.

"Tired," Amanda said.

Uncle Aaron nodded, not saying anymore. Seemingly understanding that now was not the time. Rather he slowly lifted a hand and traced the bruise on her cheek gently. The warm blue glow in his fingertips, sunk into her skin and the ache of injury mellowed greatly. Amanda knew the bruise was gone when he finally pulled away, the last evidence of last night's...events...wiped away.

"The boys seem to enjoy the show," the knight spoke.

"They do," Amanda said looking at the twin smiles with awe.

"You're surprised."

"I've only ever seen them watch science documentaries."

"Well, maybe they never had the chance."

Amanda at first wanted to argue, claiming that the twins were allowed to do anything the manor had to offer...but something stopped her. Mother had banned the little kid show Amanda had been in, and she can't remember ever watching any purely fictional media in the house after her father's demise. Maybe she wasn't the only one here who had been restricted.

Uncle Aaron slipped his hand around her other shoulder and pulled her into a brief side embrace, "Carter seemed to be quite curious about how they gave you that tail, shame me nor the others could explain the process."

Amanda felt herself smile, and let herself be nudged forward to the couch, taking a seat as the little ones began their endless questions. Constance's questions mostly surrounded where the scenes were shot, wanting to know more about the ecosystems she had seen firsthand and what Pokemon lived in them. However Carter's questions surprised her, they all related to the production of the show itself. Her baby brother's eyes sparkled when she told him about all the cool little tools the prop team had used to make the special/practical effects.

By the time the episode was over, Mrs. Rose had finished with breakfast and called everyone to the dining room. Ash had challenged the boys to a race to see who could get to the table first, and most of the pokemon joined in by default, either to want to race or to try and prevent any damages that could be caused by said race. So, most of them were far ahead. Sir Aaron and Goh were in the middle of the group seemingly having a conversation about their game. Leaving Amanda and Riley to take up the rear.

Her brother sighed, "I'm sorry. I-I know I apologized last night, but things were pretty...charged then? Mandy...Amanda I know you have no reason to believe or trust me, but nothing that happened was your fault, and even if it was, I-I don't blame you."

Amanda bit her lip, unsure about what to say. When she was little, before they were separated, she used to believe everything her brother told her. Granted she was four at the time, and four year olds were pretty dumb, but now. Everything she had experienced over the past 13 years, was telling her not to, and yet.

"You know," Amanda started, "No one has called me 'Mandy' since dad died. It'd be a shame if I forgot what he called me."

Riley smiled.

The late morning sun, gleam brilliantly in the sky, warming the air but not unbearably hot. A sweet smell of rose blossoms were dancing in the wind as the flower garden was a mere couple of yards away from where Sir Aaron had pulled them all out for training. Everyone, with the exception of Mrs. Rose went to the yard, after sending the twins off to school with the family driver. It was honestly one of the most peaceful scenes Ash had seen since arriving in Ryme city.

For all of it's preaching in media about being a utopia for both human and Pokémon, Ash had to say this place a real problem with false advertising. Between all the underground battle arenas, illegal dealings, and family drama, this city was certainly not a utopia. Ash stretched his arms behind his head and laid back in the cool grass, at least it seemed like the crazy had passed for now.

There was the sudden cried of pain and the thump of a body as it fell back onto the ground. Ash winced and sat up, already knowing what happened. Riley was slowly shifted off of the ground holding a hand to his face, the blindfold already falling off of his head. Yeah, the log training was not fun.

"Riri?" Amanda called out jogging up to him, Sir Aaron, and Lulu hot on her tail.

"I think I broke my nose," Riley choked.

"Let me see," Sir Aaron, said pulling away Riley's hands from his face, revealing a whole lot of blood...

Goh sucked in a breath between his teeth at the sight, and Ash just pat his friend's arm comfortingly. Shame a bloody nose was the least of the worst Ash had seen.

"Yeah, it's broken," Amanda bluntly said.

"You can tell?" Air aaron asked.

"There were a lot of stupid kids at the pool I life guarded at who didn't listen to the no diving rule. Eventually you learn what it looks like," Amanda said, gently prodding around her brother's face, "Thankfully this is the kind that doesn't need to be set."

"Well then, let's try this, hold still Riley," Sir Aaron said, as aura swelled in his fingertips.

Riley flinched when the knight traced over his wounded nose, but as the glow swirled round the injury, his expression relaxed. The blood still remained but Ash could tell Riley's nose was straight again, and the fresh swelling vanished. His older cousins, both of them prodded at the newly healed nose with almost identical expressions of curiosity.

"Alright that's handy," Amanda muttered.

"Well, I'll teach what I can to you," Sir Aaron said, with a pleased and excited smile.

Ash couldn't help but share in his ancestor's joy. Amanda since she had first met them adamantly refused to have anything to do with aura. His cousin was just as stubborn as him and she seemed to only have two goals in mind, complete her studies and find Riley. Even after one of them was completed she didn't want to join in training. The heavy barrier Amanda had set up when they first met, still as strong as ever, and even stronger against Riley. However, after this morning the air feel clearer between all of them. That wall Amanda built weakening.

Of course she didn't let it all come down. Amanda did join them, but she claimed it was only to learn "because it might come in handy". Ash and Lucario had shared a knowing glance at the breakfast table when she said that. They knew she thought it was cool, but just wasn't comfortable expressing it yet, they were fine with that.

It was actually really funny training with Amanda. She approached all the lessons with extreme attention and focus, always asking questions, always looking for answers. Even throwing Sir Aaron for a loop with her prodding. Ash could see how she was an A straight student; her learning technique was downright impressive. Amanda was the only one who hasn't gotten hit in the face with the log trap.

"You are not breaking my nose again so you can practice," Riley said getting up to likely go wash his face.

Amanda made a disappointed whine, but it was clearly teasing, "When did you get boring?"

"When did you become a psycho?" Riley bit back.

"Oh, we both know I always was," Amanda deadpanned, causing Riley to huff and roll his eyes.

"I am so glad I'm an only child," Goh muttered.

Ash brows furrowed, "You don't think it would be fun to have a built-in playmate?"

Goh shook his head, "You might thrive on connection Ash, but some people value their alone time, besides I get enough familial drama just hanging out with you guys."

Ash chortled at that, "You're not wrong. We are just the descendances of an ancient race of super powered protectors..." Ash trailed off, and suddenly gasped as his mind made the unexpected connection.

"Ash?" Sir Aaron asked, no doubt feeling his astonishment and excitement through their aura linkage.

"Oh, my Arceus!" Ash exclaimed, "We're Jedi!"

Riley was the first to laugh, Ash could hear him and Lulu cracking up behind him on the back porch. Amanda, once the realization hit her, slapped her face and groaned, but Ash knew she was smiling internally. Sir Aaron and Lucario just shared a confused glance.

"Shit, you're right," Goh muttered, and Ash burst out laughing.

Jedi? Lucario's ear flicked, annoyed he didn't get the joke.

"We'll show you that movie later," Amanda said.

Mrs. Rose came out of the house after that, bringing with her lemonade and thankfully a towel Riley could use on his face. Ash was about to run over to get his own glass, Pikachu on his shoulder, when his phone started ringing. His mom's number on the screen Ash didn't have much thought before he hit the answer call button.

"Hi mom!" He answered cheerfully.

He was met with static. Cold and silent.

"Hello? Mom?" His brows furrowed, in confusion.

"Pika?"

"Hello Ash."

Something heavy sunk deeper and deeper in his stomach, at that low poisonous tone, "Who is this?" The darkhaired trainer spat.

"Oh, dear nephew, I would hope you would recognize me by now?"

His heart began to race, his pulse beating against the inside of his chest. Nausea swirled in his stomach turning it to ice, as all his body tensed.

"What did you do? Where is my mom?" He growled, drawing the attention of all those around him.

"Pikapi?"

Amanda touched his shoulder, and mouthed, "Put it on speaker."

Ash listened to his cousin, quickly pressing the speaker button, just in time for a staticky, but familiar voice, with clear, cold message to share.

"Don't worry, nephew, your mother is fine. For now. Really you should be more concerned about the children."

Ash dropped the phone...the twins...