Indigo Hospital...

Chapter 27 - Indigo Hospital...

BEEP...

BEEP…

BEEP…

BEEP…

"Heart rate is surprisingly still normal sir but blood pressure is a little low," said the nurse who was keeping her eye on the machines showing the patient's vitals.

"Did you find the bullet yet?" asked another nurse who was assisting the surgeon.

"No. It looks like it's in there deep," replied the surgeon as he peered through his magnifying goggles closer to the gunshot wound before he dug in deeper with his surgeon tools.

"I can't believe he's still alive. He shouldn't be. Not after all that he has suffered through and all the blood he has lost," commented the first nurse. "His will to live is extraordinary. What do you think is keeping him alive?"

"Who knows? We've been at this for hours. Do you think he'll survive?" asked a third nurse.

"I will do everything I can to not let him die. After all he's done and the fact that he's still with us…I do not want to be the one who tells his friends that he didn't make it," remarked the surgeon and the nurses nodded, hoping that that scenario wouldn't come to pass.

They continued their work as they did their best to save their patient while his friends waited for an update in the waiting room of Indigo Hospital. While the large group of friends waited to get an update with worried looks on their faces, all around the world people were talking of what happened at the Spirit Tournament for the cameras were still rolling and streamed the live carnage to everyone who was watching at home on their TVs or on the go on their devices. Countless people were horrified of what happened, unable to comprehend why someone would do such terrible things. Many people around the world, particular people who knew Ash, wanted to go to Indigo Plateau to see him, to see with their own eyes if he was alright and to help him out with whatever they could but couldn't leave, for one reason or another. However, there were some others across the different regions that were preparing to leave their homes, having made up their minds on traveling to the Indigo Plateau to find their loved ones to make sure they were alright.

In the middle of the ocean next to the Hoenn Region, was a large paradise like mini city that had many different types of pokémon battles offered to trainers for them to compete in. Inside one of these buildings, a purple short haired girl, dressed in a white blouse and black pants was packing her suitcase hurriedly, while her faithful Espeon stood on the bed, watching her as she packed. She used to be a petite and skinny girl but had developed as she grew older. Though not as curvaceous as other girls, she was still very attractive. She was in her early twenties, wise beyond her years, a powerful empath, a psychic and one of the Frontier Brains, which are the strongest trainers the Battle Frontier has to offer who were the head of their own battle buildings. The TV was on in her room, turned to the news channel.

"-AND RIGHT NOW MANY PEOPLE ARE GOING CRAZY OVER WHAT HAPPENED. SOME ARE LEAVING THE TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, EVEN AT THIS LATE HOUR IN THE EVENING IN FEAR THAT ANOTHER ATTACK COULD HAPPEN EVEN THOUGH PRESIDENT GOODSHOW HAS INCREASED SECURITY GREATLY SINCE THE INCIDENT. SOME BELIEVE-"

The anchor's voice was silenced as a large man with a big belly wearing white shorts and a blue and white tropical shirt pushed the mute button on the TV remote. He then spoke to the purple haired girl.

"Anabel, you know why I'm here right?" asked the man, looking at the girl through his sunglasses that he always wore, even when indoors, with a concerned expression.

"I know Scott, but you can't stop me and neither can the other Frontier Brains. I have to go!" answered Anabel while throwing a couple more things into her suitcase.

"What would you going now aid in anything?" asked Scott. "The fight is over. He won, the attackers are locked up and people are slowly calming down. What's left?"

"You know exactly what's left Scott!" shouted Anabel as she turned to face him, though he didn't react to her death glare. "He's been hurt incredibly bad and he's finally appeared after three years! Even you couldn't find him then! Why I didn't go earlier when I first found out, when we first started watching the tournament, listening to you and the others, I'll never know why! We aren't even busy, slower than ever because of the tournament. But I'm not going to miss my chance to see him again! He may die! He may disappear! This may be my only chance and nobody is going to stop me!"

Anabel yelled out her last sentence, fuming at Scott. Scott looked at her for a moment before smiling, surprising the Salon Maiden who calmed down quickly and gave a look of confusion. He reached into his pocket and took out his phone.

"You'll want a fast ride I assume. Let me call my personal pilot," said Scott as he dialed on the phone.

"Thank you Scott," muttered Anabel as she finished her packing.

In a large city near the northern coast of the Kanto Region, three beautiful girls in their early twenties were walking towards a large dome shaped building that had a Dewgong pictured on the front of the building in the morning. The three girls were the Sensational Sisters of Cerulean City, the stars of their water ballet shows and were returning back from shopping with their hands holding many bags as they talked and joked. The three sisters had grown up some; still beautiful as ever but also decent battlers now and they don't use the word 'like' after every few words anymore. They soon entered the building after unlocking the door with their key and relocked it after entering, putting out a 'closed' sign to ward off people.

The three sisters dropped off their bags on the floor and one of them, the blue haired girl who was the second oldest, Violet, turned on the TV and started flipping through channels as the three sat on the large comfy couch to relax after walking around the mall for so long.

"-come with me my princess as we will-"

CLICK

"-the score is 78 to 68 and-"

CLICK

"-chaos at the tournament resulted in-"

CLICK

"-to bake the pie one must…"

"WAIT!" shouted Daisy, the yellow haired sister who was the eldest. "Go back to the last channel!"

Violet sighed and put the previous channel with a push on the remote's button. A news anchor was speaking as a video played in the background.

"-AS YOU CAN ALL SEE THE SITUATION WAS DIRE INDEED. THE POKEMON AND THE MEN WHO ATTACKED THE STADIUM WERE OUT FOR BLOOD YET SOME FOUGHT BACK. HERE'S ONE WHO-"

The news channel showed an attractive red haired girl fighting against a Bisharp with her Starmie as the anchor talked over the silent video but when both of them were struck down to the floor, the three sisters cried out "MISTY!" together, as they stood up.

"-AND WOULD HAVE BEEN KILLED IF NOT FOR THE BRAVE ACTIONS OF THIS YOUNG MAN-"

The video showed a raven haired trainer defending her and the others, striking the pokémon down.

"Is that…"

"Could it be…"

"He looks familiar…"

The three sisters looked at one another with surprised expressions before looking at the news again.

"-WE HAVE CONFIRMED HIS IDENTITY AS ASH KETCHUM FROM PALLET TOWN AND THAT'S NOT ALL THIS GREAT TRAINER DID AS HE-"

"That's Ash?!"

"No way!"

"Damn, he's hot!"

"-WHO CONTINUED FIGHTING AGAINST THE EVIL MEN AND EMERGED VICTORIOUS, SAVING EVERYONE BEFORE HE FINALLY SUCCUMBED TO HIS WOUNDS. WE HAVE RECEIVED WORD THAT HE IS CURRENTLY AT THE INDIGO HOSPITAL AS DOCTORS SCRAMBLED TO TRY TO SAVE HIS LIFE. THAT IS THE LATEST WE'VE HEARD SEVERAL HOURS AGO AND STILL NO UPDATE. WE CAN ONLY-"

"We have to go see how Misty is doing!" said Lily suddenly as she tried calling her but couldn't get through as the line was busy.

"You're right; we have to make sure she's not hurt and she's probably going crazy as she waits for Ash to recover. You know how much she cares about him. Hell, she'll probably tell him how she feels now and she may need our support if things don't go well. Let's get ready to head out. And only pack necessary things. This isn't going to be a vacation trip. But what about the gym?" asked Violet as she turned off the TV.

"We haven't had a challenger in a long time and we can close it down for a while without getting into trouble with the League. We'll leave a message on the front doors before we leave," replied Daisy.

The sisters got up to go get ready for the trip and Daisy called Professor Oak to see if he could get them a ride to the Indigo Plateau.

In a small town located in south west Kanto, Professor Samuel Oak and Delia Ketchum were busy getting ready to leave and head for the Indigo Plateau.

"I'm here and ready to go!" called out a very pretty girl, wearing yellow shorts and yellow blouse, as she stepped inside her grandfather's laboratory. This was Daisy Oak, Gary's older sister by a couple years. Her grandpa, Professor Oak, poked his head out of one of the many rooms lining the hallway.

"Ah Daisy, you're here. Good we're almost ready to go. Delia is finishing up and we should be able to leave as soon as the helicopter gets here and-" His phone ringing cut him off. He placed his bags down to grab his phone out of his pants pocket and answered it. "Hello, this is Professor Oak. I'm sorry but I'm a little busy-OH! Hello Daisy Waterflower, how are you...Yes, we've been watching the tournament and know what's happened. We're getting ready to go there…Pick you three up on the way? Not a problem…Don't worry about it. We will see you in about an hour as we will be travelling by helicopter…but please don't delay…Okay bye." Oak hung up the phone as the sounds of a helicopter nearing them was heard. "Right on time!" exclaimed the professor as he picked up his luggage. "Delia, we have to go! They're here!" called out Oak as he headed for the door, gesturing to his granddaughter Daisy to get out as they heard a woman's voice from down the hall.

"I'm coming!" shouted Delia as she shot out of the bathroom. She grabbed her bag that was on the couch in one hand and ran to them.

I'm coming Ash! My baby, I'm on my way. Please be alright!

As soon as she stepped outside the laboratory, she got a call on her phone and she answered it.

"Hello? Oh hey…Yes, I'm about to leave…Both of you are on the way...I'm sure your daughters will be happy to see you too…Okay, have a safe trip, we'll see you there soon!" Delia hung up and ran to the waiting helicopter.

Far away, in the region of Unova, two brothers were sneaking around in a helicopter field late at night, trying to find a way to use one of them when they were caught by a pilot who wanted to check on his own personal copter before going home, having just landed from another flight.

"What are you two doing here?" asked the pilot.

The brothers glanced at the pilot and then at themselves. The blue haired brother spoke as the red haired brother gave the guy a puppy dog look.

"Please sir, we're trying to get to the Indigo Plateau. Our brother is there and we have to know how he is as he's not picking up his phone or replying to our messages."

"I see. Well the reason you can't reach anyone right now by phone or messages is because it's total chaos over there right now and it'll be difficult to get there, let alone land near the Plateau."

"Please sir, will you help us?" asked the blue haired man.

"We'll pay you!" added the red haired one.

"I don't want your money," replied the pilot and the two brothers sunk their heads in defeat. "But I will take you there. I know the love a brother has for his siblings. Let's get into my copter and we'll get going," remarked the pilot as the two brothers thanked the pilot and each brother shook the pilot's hand before getting into the helicopter.

Very loud sounds could be heard from inside the Maple household in Petalburg City of the Hoenn region late at night, as Norman Maple was stomping around getting his luggage packed and his pokémon ready to travel. He had seen what had happened at the tournament and was glad that his daughter May and son Max were safe but wanted to go see them. Also, he had a bone to pick with a certain raven haired trainer. His wife, Caroline, was trying to calm him down as she finished packing her suitcase.

"Norman, please relax. The taxi will be here soon," said Caroline softly.

"I can't Caroline! I'm so worried about May and Max. I know they're safe for now but I have to see them as soon as possible!" replied Norman, trying to hide his other reason.

"I know you care about our children more than anything else in the world, but you're trying to hide something Norman and you can't hide anything from me."

Norman looked up at his wife as he was zipping up his packed luggage. The stared at each other for a couple minutes before Norman gave in, sighing.

"Alright fin. I do want to see them both but I also have some other business to attend to," answered Norman as he clipped his poke balls to his belt after recalling his pokémon. Caroline sighed.

"Still Norman? You haven't gotten over it?" asked his wife. Norman looked at her with an intense gaze.

"ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?!" exploded Norman, though his wife stood tall and strong, not fearing her husband's rage. "How long were our kids moping around the house before they told us the reason why? How long did it take Max to finally battle again? Hell, how long did it take for May to stop crying in her sleep in the middle of the night? He left them and went on his merry way without a second thought when he disappeared three years ago!"

Norman stopped to take a breather, seething while his vein showed on his neck. Caroline waited a moment before speaking.

"I understand Norman but he did call them to tell them before leaving and things are different now. He has come back and I've heard from them both how happy they have been since he came back. They've been spending time together again and-"

"WHAT?! You talked to them without telling me?! And you knew?!"

Caroline sweat dropped, slapping herself mentally as she let that slip. She had talked to May and Max a couple times while her husband was at the gym. He only watched tournaments starting from the halfway stage, saying that was when things got good. Unfortunately that was when he saw Ash battle in the fifth match against Leaf and his blood began boiling at the site of him before his rage was replaced with fear over his children when the stadium was attacked. Caroline was glad to hear them happy again though, especially for her daughter. May had told her of her feelings for Ash a long time ago.

"It's not a big deal Norman," started Caroline, trying to defuse the situation. "We were only talking about the tournament mostly and how Ash had gotten stronger and-"

"Don't say that punk's name in my house!" roared Norman.

"What in the world is the matter with you? He saved them!" shouted Caroline, getting angry herself.

"What's the matter with me? Are you kidding me? I swear I'm going crazy because it seems like I'm the only sane one here!" He paced a bit after throwing up his arms in the air before looking back at his wife and continued. "He may have saved them but he's the one who also caused their anguish Caroline! Max missed a tournament because of him. May missed out on a contest because of him. And you saw what happened after the match, the entire thing was broadcasted all over the world. You saw him protecting that Leaf girl. You saw him protecting two other girls before finally checking on our daughter! The news even said that the red head was his girlfriend! How can he do that to May? How could he string her along, disappear on her, then come back and taunt her with another girl?"

Caroline was shocked at what she heard, her eyes widening as she thought of the possibility of what he said being true. Could he really do that? Is he really capable of such a thing?

"I don't know Norman," said Caroline finally after a moment of thinking. "We met him before and he wasn't like that at all. It may seem like that's how it is but the news is always exaggerating things. Another news channel said that Leaf was his girlfriend."

"It doesn't matter Caroline. People change. All I know is that when he left, Max's spirit shook for a long time before finally getting back into the battling rhythm. And May….she lost that spunky attitude of hers for a long time, becoming a ghost of her former self before getting a little bit of it back. He has to answer for what he has done to them, especially May. He has to pay for what he's done to her."

When Norman finished, a car honk was heard from outside. Their taxi had arrived and Caroline followed after her husband quietly, who had taken both of their luggages in one hand while heading out of their house towards the taxi.

"STAY OUT!" roared a red headed girl as her Starmie used Psychic to throw several reporters out of the Indigo Plateau Hospital. They had been trying to sneak in all morning and yesterday night to snap photos of the raven haired trainer who was now finally sleeping after many long hours of surgery in his intensive care room. They had tried again later on the next morning, thinking they would have a chance.

"Wow, nicely done Misty. That one guy flew over the tree," giggled Dawn, as she used her hand as a hat to shield her eyes from the sun. It was about 1030am.

"Thanks. I think that's the last of them. Let's head back inside. Starmie, if you see anymore reporters, please send them away. And so you're not alone…"

Misty tossed another poke ball into the air and a large, long, blue and yellow sea serpent appeared. Her Gyarados roared and took up a guarding position in front of the hospital after being told by his trainer of the situation. They were to allow other people who were hurt and visitors to go inside but if any reporters or photographers neared, to scare them away but not to hurt them.

Misty and Dawn walked into the hospital, taking the elevator up to the third floor and rejoined the others who were all sitting in the large waiting area. Pikachu, Gardevoir and Lucario were with Ash in his room, watching over him as he slept. They had prevented a couple photographers from taking a picture of him as they snuck in as nurses.

"Let off some steam I take it?" asked Lucy as she saw the two sit down and sigh.

"I never knew how annoying paparazzi and the media can be," confessed Mist. "I used to think my sisters were just exaggerating but no, they actually toned it down. They're worse."

Several of her friends laughed at her statement of realization.

"Well, good news is that they have sent less and less, knowing that we're here guarding Ash," said Brock.

"Imagine if we weren't here," chimed in Iris. They all thought for a second and shuddered, picturing the headline for tomorrow's newspaper saying false things about Ash or the news channel blowing things out of proportion about him and his aura.

"Man, it's been crazy since your match with him ended, huh Leaf?" asked Max as he glanced at the brunette.

Leaf nodded without saying anything. Ever since they had brought Ash to the hospital in a panic, she had stayed silent. She did not speak a single word, laughed, grunted, groaned or any other type of noise for that matter. She said nothing and did nothing except stay in his room with him for a bit when they were all allowed to and sat down in the waiting room, staring at the wall.

Gary noticed her bizarre behavior as he knew her a little better from the others and commented that it was not normal for her from what he knew of her. The others merely replied that she was probably just upset and needed some time to deal with the fact that she was almost killed and what had happened. Gary wasn't sure but said no more on the subject.

"I can't believe everything that's happened since yesterday afternoon," said Lucy as she leaned against Brock to rest a bit who wrapped his arm around her neck. She was getting tired of sitting up straight.

"I hear ya Lucy," replied Sarah. "The attack, seeing Ash go ballistic, getting him here and waiting for a long time before getting an update...I don't think I've ever been this stressed out before."

The others nodded in agreement. When they teleported to the hospital, they were going nuts as Ash was unconscious and was bleeding from many serious wounds. Most of the group split up to find a nurse or doctor as Misty, May, Serena and Dawn stayed with him, trying to stop the bleeding from his many injuries. When the hospital staff finally took him in, they waited for a long time in the waiting room until they got an update late at night. The Champion of Sinnoh was with them through all this time as well though her stay with them was cut short.

Cynthia had received a call from her fellow Champions after getting an update from the doctor saying that they needed her to come to an emergency meeting regarding the captured men from the stadium attack. Reluctantly, Cynthia left after telling them bye and also mentioned that she would come back if she could. The others thanked her for waiting with them and told her that she was more than welcome to return. After the Sinnoh Champion left, Dawn got a feeling that there was something else but kept it to herself for the time being as she wasn't entirely sure and felt it wouldn't be good adding fuel to a fire for no reason.

While they waited, they spent the time talking about the fight, Ash's strength and abilities, all of the pokémon he used, including discussing when, where and how he could've captured the Legendary Beasts of Johto while keeping the media away from their friend. They were finally told by the head doctor after waiting for so long that the surgery to remove the bullet was successful and they had stitched up that wound and his two large cuts after cleaning them out of dust, dirt and other foreign particles. They took a while because they wanted to make sure they cleaned up the wounds well and the bullet was found next to his kidney after searching for it for a long time so they had to take their time and maneuver around it.

The four girls were beyond worried about him and kept talking to one another in order to keep their minds distracted to pass the time. Leaf spent her whole time there being unusually quiet, listening in to everyone else's conversations. Sarah would join in the conversations only to pass the time, as she didn't know what to do as she waited for Ash. It was ironic that Leaf, the usual talkative one, and Sarah, the usual quiet one, had their roles reversed in this stressful time. However, both girls were worried about the raven haired trainer who was resting now to recover from his wounds and along with the four girls, couldn't wait to see him up on his feet again.

"Did anyone get a response from Goodshow yet?" asked Richie after everyone was silent for a moment, being careful not to move too much.

Joy was leaning against him, sleeping, as she had stayed up late well into the night, checking Ash's vitals every half hour until the replacement nurse started her shift at 4am after they were informed that he would recover and everything was okay. Richie had requested a blanket from the nurse on shift and covered his girlfriend Joy with it before wrapping his arm around her on the couch in the waiting room. Everyone had stayed in the hospital for the night, only leaving to throw out the media, crazy fans or to get food. Joy was the only one asleep at the moment since she was up later than the others who had taken turns in smaller groups to stay up to watch for unwelcomed guests like the paparazzi.

"Oh I did!" Iris said but then grimaced. "Hey, it slipped my mind, sorry!" she apologized quickly after seeing everyone's glare.

"Well, what did he say?" questioned Serena.

"He said that the tournament is postponed until Ash recovers, the stadium is repaired from the explosion and after checking everything in and around the stadium to make sure there are no other threats. He said that they will honor him for his brave actions and will wait until he can compete again. They will make the announcement today at noon," answered Iris.

"That's great! Finally, something good is happening for him," said May as she smiled.

"I hate to say this as I don't believe in such things, but it looks like Ash's luck is turning for the better," remarked Cilan with a small smile.

As soon as he finished saying that, the large elevator doors dinged open and a group of people entered the area. Delia Ketchum, Professor Oak, Gary's sister Daisy, Misty's sister Daisy, Lily, Violet, Anabel, Chili, Cress, Norman, Caroline, Johanna and Grace walked forward while some of them talked amongst themselves before spotting Ash's friends sitting in the waiting room and quickly stopped talking. Misty, May, Dawn, Serena, Brock, Lucy, Max, Gary, Leaf, Cilan, Iris, Joy, Richie and Sarah stared at the new arrivals. Both groups were silent for a moment before Iris broke it.

"You just had to say something Cilan," commented Iris as she sighed and shook her head.

"Where is Ash? Is he alright?" Delia asked as she moved forward, her lips quivering, about to cry right then and there.

"Yes, he's fine and I'll show you his room Mrs. Ketchum," said Joy as she had woken up suddenly from the elevator ding and noticed nobody moved from her group.

"Thank you. Please, just call me Delia." Joy nodded as Delia moved closer and she led Ash's mom to where her son was.

The two groups eyed each other before suddenly several surprised shouts and happy outbursts were heard across the room before multiple interactions happened at once.

"MOM! I can't believe you're here!" Dawn jumped from her seat and hugged her mom Johanna, burying her face into her mom's bosom, who returned the hug.

"I'm so glad you're okay Dawn!" replied Johanna, tightening her hug on her daughter, letting out tears of relief that her daughter was alright.

"May, Max; it's so good to see you two safe and sound!" cried Caroline as her two children gave her a hug and Norman hugged the three in his strong arms.

"We missed you Mom. And you too Dad!" said Max as May merely smiled and let out a few tears.

"CILAN!" cried out his brothers as he shouted back to them as well.

"CRESS! CHILI! How did you two get here?" asked Cilan.

"We hitched a ride on a helicopter bro," answered Chili with a smirk as the three brothers hugged each other and Cilan re-introduced Iris to his brothers, but as his girlfriend now.

"Getting into trouble are we?" joked Iris as she greeted them, the two brothers chuckling at her question.

"Gramps! Daisy! Why are you two here?" asked Gary as his grandpa and sister moved to him. They had a three way hug before separating.

"To check on you squirt," replied his sister Daisy as she ruffled his hair with their grandpa smiling at the two. "Also, I never thanked you. Thanks for…well…you know." Daisy smiled her thanks at her kid brother and then gave him a hug again. When they separated, Gary waved it off.

"Don't mention it Daisy. What kind of brother would I be if I didn't care? But you have to thank Ash as well since he's the one who beat the ever living crap out of him…twice," revealed Gary with a grin.

"Is that so? Will do, thanks bro," replied Daisy Oak with a smile. "Hmmm…now how should I thank him? Oh, I know. I'll just take him to my room and then I'll…" Daisy stopped and smirked mischievously, which made Gary cover his ears and become wide eyed while their grandpa pretended he was interested in the painting that hung on the wall near them.

"I DON'T WANT TO KNOW!" he cried out, scared that his sister might continue but then Daisy laughed out loud.

"GOTCHA! HAHAHAHA! Oh man, I needed that. I haven't laughed that hard in a while. Thanks again little bro," giggled Daisy while Gary scowled and muttered something about being scarred for life.

"Serena, I'm so happy to see you and I'm so proud of you!" said Grace as she hugged her daughter.

"Good to see you too Mom but why are you proud of me? I didn't do anything. It was all Ash. He's the one who saved everyone," replied Serena, a little confused.

"That may be true, but you didn't cower in fear but fought and tried to help him and your friends. I saw all that you did on the news."

"Oh right. Thanks Mom." Serena went pink over her mother's words as the two hugged again.

"Lucy?" asked a purple haired girl quietly as she saw someone who she thought she knew from behind.

"Anabel!" Lucy and Anabel jumped up in joy seeing each other before giving one another bear hugs as they were close friends, since both worked at the Battle Frontier as Frontier Brains.

"Are you okay? How's everything?" asked Anabel immediately after they separated.

"Yea I'm good and things are finally quieting down slowly. So, do I need to ask why you're here?" asked Lucy with a smirk and a wink, making Anabel blush as her eyes widened, fearing others may hear her friend.

"Sshh!" replied Anabel, as Brock moved closer to the two, saying hi to Anabel and re-introducing himself as Lucy's boyfriend. "That's right, you two are together now. That's great! I'm so happy for you two," replied Anabel, making Brock and Lucy smile as they held hands.

"Misty! We're so happy that you're alright!" said Daisy as she and the two other sisters gave a group hug to the red head.

"Happy…to see you…too…I…can't…breathe…" gasped Misty since they were hugging her too hard.

"Sorry Misty," said Violet as they stopped. "It's just that we were terrified about you since you wouldn't pick up your phone or answer any of our messages."

"Yea, I get it. Well around here, it's hard to get a call or message through since everyone is still going crazy over what happened yesterday afternoon," replied Misty.

"Yea we saw everything. You fought bravely. We're proud of you. And it looks like your knight in shining armor rescued you huh? We always knew you two would get together. By the way, how's your boyfriend Ash doing Misty? Has he recovered? " asked Lily, making her little sister blush as she didn't deny it.

"Ash is your boyfriend?" asked Anabel loudly and unexpectedly, drawing the attention of the four sisters. Anabel heard Lily as she was near them, standing next to Brock and Lucy.

"I TOLD YOU!" shouted Norman at Caroline, after hearing Anabel's loud question.

Everyone stopped talking and went silent over Norman's outburst, making May and Max get pink circles appear on their cheeks in embarrassment.

"Mom, what's Dad talking about?" asked May, afraid to hear the answer but before her Mom could answer, Delia and Joy came back at that moment.

"He's doing fine and he's sleeping right now. The doctor said he'll make a full recovery but will have a couple scars but that's okay!" beamed Delia at everyone at first, but after noticing them being quiet and staring at Norman, her smile faded away. "What's going on?" she asked with worry.

"I should be asking that same question," replied Norman. He looked at his offspring before speaking, still hugging them. "What's been going on around here? Why haven't you checked in with me?"

"Well it's a long story Dad," started Max looking at his feet.

"Yea, we'll tell you everything later," finished May, though she didn't drop her gaze.

"No, you'll tell me now. And what's going on between that Ash and you May?"

Something in his tone of voice when he said "that Ash" made everyone a little angry from Ash's group of friends, including Delia and Anabel. May and Max pulled away from their father, though Max only moved a couple steps back, stopping next to his Mom, but May moved back until she was standing next to Dawn and Johanna, a good ten feet away from her father.

"Why did you say 'that Ash' and with that tone of voice?" asked May, narrowing her eyes at her father.

"Because I have a bone to pick with him that's why," answered Norman coldly.

"You'll do no such thing! You won't get near my son!" shouted Delia as she marched right up to him and stared him down, an angry expression on her face. "My son has just risked his life to save everyone, including your daughter and son who are his friends! If anything, you should be thanking him on your hands and knees right now instead of coming here to pick a fight!"

"Out of my way Delia. This isn't your fight. This is between me and him. Man to man."

Delia didn't move. She continued to glare at Norman who shot daggers back. The tension between the two was unbearable. Nobody knew what to do and there was a long and awkward silence until soft steps were heard from behind them. Everyone turned around to see the cause of the sound and every single person gasped besides Norman, who growled instead.

Ash Ketchum was walking slowly towards them, having woken up from their shouting and sensing the hostile aura from many of them. He was being helped along by Lucario, who had Ash's arm wrapped around his neck and his own arm wrapped around his Master's midsection. Gardevoir and Pikachu were following from behind, concerned expressions on them. He was barefoot and without a shirt, wearing only hospital pants. A long but narrow rectangular bandage was on his chest that ran to his stomach, covering the stitches they put to help seal and heal the last sword attack that cut him. A two inch by two inch square bandage was placed over the gunshot wound he received near his side from Tracey underneath the first bandage, after the doctors had found the bullet, taken it out, cleaned it and stitched it up. On his back was a new bandage covering the stitches they had to redo from his previous wound. He had many black and blue bruises all over his body and many scratches and cuts, some large enough to warrant a smaller bandage as there were several on him. His face had a black eye and on one side of his head was wrapped up in bandages too as he had cut his head when he fell down after losing consciousness in the end.

This was the worst state anyone had ever seen him in and many were filled with sadness over how beat up he was but were amazed that he could walk in that condition, even though he was being helped along. He looked like he survived going through hell and back. Nobody spoke or moved as he drew nearer to them. He had locked eyes with May's father Norman and was going to settle things right then and there but Lucario sent him a mental message.

Are you sure Master? Are you up for this right now?

Yes, I'm sure Lucario.

Alright. I'll jump in if needed.

No. You will not and make sure nobody gets involved, no matter what.

But Master I…

Promise me Lucario.

….

LUCARIO!

I promise Master.

Ash and his pokémon reached the group and stopped for a second. Ash slipped his arm off of Lucario while the aura pokémon lowered his own. He stood there, keeping his gaze at May's father for a second before moving towards him. He limped as he moved towards the angry man, maintaining eye contact.

How does he do it? Where does he get his strength from? thought an awestruck Sarah.

Ash, you're the only one I know who's never afraid! May looked at him with wonder.

That's my Pokémon Master. Never shying away from a challenge. Misty smiled.

Keep it up my Guardian! You're always here for us. Dawn beamed at him as he moved past her.

I'm so proud of you Ash. I know you'll do the right thing, thought Serena.

Who else would march right up to a man who wanted to beat the crap out of him with no showing of fear, even when he himself is in an already horrible state? Ash, you're something else entirely. After everything you've done…I knew I had feelings for you…But…now I know…I've fallen in love with you, thought Leaf as she watched him go past her with her eyes wide and her heart beating madly.

I can't believe the state he's in. I can feel his pain but I can also sense his determination. I've never felt such willpower before, it's amazing! Anabel's admiration, respect and feelings grew even more than she thought possible for the young man.

The others stared on in absolute shock as they watched him get closer to the intimidating man. Anabel, the girls' mothers and along with Misty's sisters, were also impressed by his physique, getting pink circles on their faces as they noticed it even in such a state. After what seemed like ages, Ash had finally reached the gym leader and stood about a foot away from him. Ash straightened up when he reached Norman and they were almost the same height. Norman had lost two of his advantages; he used to tower over the raven haired trainer before he grew up and his muscular build advantage was lost as well, seeing the young man had matured and now had lean muscles of his own. The two stood quiet, not blinking before Ash started to speak.

"I know why you're angry at me Mr. Maple and I want to say that I'm sor-"

Norman punched the already injured man in the stomach, cutting him off, making him stumble backwards. Ash had known it was coming but didn't block it. He sensed what the man wanted, what he came for and he was going to let him have it.

"ASH!" cried out several people at once in worry.

"DAD!" yelled May and Max together angrily.

"NORMAN!" screamed his wife in shock.

Everyone moved towards the two to stop and separate them. However, Lucario's eyes glowed blue and every single person besides Ash and Norman were frozen in place. They were glaring at Ash and Lucario, telling him to let them go but he didn't listen.

"I'm sorry but this needs to end now before it turns into something else," replied Ash calmly as Norman looked around at the frozen people and then at Ash.

I'll give him points for taking it like a man but he's still going to get an ass whooping!

"This is what you wanted to do, isn't it? Well, here I am," said Ash as he gestured to himself standing in front of him, waiting for Norman to strike.

Norman growled at the challenge and punched the young man again in the chest. Ash stumbled back before recomposing himself and standing up straight again in front of Norman.

"Is that all you got?" taunted Ash. May's eyes went wide as she yelled desperately for them to stop.

Does he have a death wish? Man, he's crazy, thought Gary.

"I'll show you what I've got you punk!"

Norman punched Ash's stomach again, causing the raven haired trainer to cough and blood to splatter the floor. His bandage covering his bullet wound had come off and some of his stitches tore open. Ash taunted him again by moving his hand as if to say keep them coming.

"You befriended my children, came into our home, broke bread with us and what do you do next? You leave them!" roared Norman has he punched him again in the body, causing Ash to grunt.

"You made Max miss a tournament because he was too depressed over his friend leaving!"

He punched him again as Max reddened in embarrassment.

"You made May stop going to contests! You caused her to spend many nights crying in her sleep!"

He punched him in the face this time, making Ash spit out blood as his head turned to the side from the strike. May went crimson over what her father said.

"And then you came back!"

Norman took a breather, getting tired. Ash was barely standing on his feet and Pikachu's ears dropped as he feared for him. But neither had he, Gardevoir or Lucario intervened since Ash told them not to, no matter what happened.

Just a little more, hang in there. Gardevoir's mental words encouraged Ash, drawing strength from it.

"And?" gasped Ash. Norman raged at his question.

"And you came back and you didn't give a damn about May at all! You stringed her along while getting cozy with the redhead and that Leaf girl! I saw how you held them in the broadcast of the horrible fight against the invaders! Hero or not, you're playing games with my daughter and I won't stand for it!"

Norman had punched Ash after each sentence. The raven haired trainer dropped to one knee, coughing up blood and his chest stitches opened up more, causing the bandages over it to quickly redden.

Is that why Dad's so angry? Thought May. Oh no, I'm so sorry Ash! He doesn't know!

Ash shakily stood back up, wiping away the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand before he looked at May's father, who was breathing hard. They were quiet for a few seconds before Norman spoke again, but this time with a calmer voice.

"May…I knew that she liked you. All the times she talked about you…all the stories she said…It was obvious. Why? Why did you leave her? My son Max was hurting bad too since his idol was gone but May…you know how she is…why…why'd you leave? Why did you cause them so much pain? And why would you continue to hurt her after coming back? What are you after? Why are you doing all this? Please tell me!"

Norman pleaded to the young man and grabbed Ash's shoulders, shaking him as a single tear fell from his eyes. Nobody could believe what they just saw, not even May, Max or his wife Caroline. Ash motioned at Lucario who let everyone go. Nobody moved or made a sound until Ash spoke.

"I know that she likes me Mr. Maple. And I like her too." Everyone besides Ash's group stared, not knowing the whole story. "But it's not as simple as that. There is more to it. But this isn't the time for it. As for Misty and Leaf, they are important to me too and I will do anything to protect the ones I care about. You asked me why I left and I'll answer you. I left to become stronger. I left to train and prepare for the coming days. If I hadn't, then we wouldn't be here right now, with you punching me. Instead, you'd be burying your son and daughter if you were lucky enough to find their bodies."

Norman and Caroline gasped before glancing at each other and the others shifted uncomfortably at Ash's dark words. They then faced the young man in front of them. Several others looked around the group, hoping to find something to talk about to break the silence but they were saved from doing so when Ash continued to talk.

"I had to leave them Mr. Maple but it wasn't by choice. I had to leave everyone I knew. Believe me when I say it was no picnic. I suffered as well. I've gone through three years worth of harsh training, traveling to each and every hell hole this planet had to offer, breaking bone, getting insanely sick, fleeing for my life against scary pokémon and enduring sleepless nights while thinking about my friends. I wondered what they were doing, whether they had succeeded in their dreams and if they remembered me at all."

Many of Ash's friends glanced at one another. Ash hadn't told them much about his three year absence and he was saying some of it right now.

Has he really suffered through all that? wondered Leaf.

Poor Ash, I never knew, thought Sarah as Anabel's eyes watered.

"If you don't believe any of that, I don't blame you Mr. Maple. But at least believe this." Ash took a breather before continuing. "My friends, my family and my pokémon are my life and I would gladly die for any one of them."

Ash brushed off Norman's hands from his shoulders, turned to leave and walked a bit before stumbling down to one knee, coughing and shaking a bit from his injuries. Before the others could react, Lucario appeared by his side and helped him back up.

"I got you Master. Let's take you back to your bed and get these stitches and bandages replaced."

Ash was helped down the hall by Lucario, followed by Pikachu and Gardevoir, after the others let him pass without a word. Even Delia let her son go without cuddling him, even though she really wanted to.

"I'm gonna go redo his stitches and bandages," said Joy, the first one recovering and Richie nodded.

"I'll come help you," added Brock and Joy smiled at the offer.

The group watched Brock and Joy go down the hall and disappear into Ash's room before they all turned to glare at Norman. Norman opened his mouth and closed it a couple times before he sagged his shoulders and finally said something.

"I'm sorry everyone. I let my rage blind me," he sighed as he looked around at the others, embarrassed. "But why didn't he fight back? Why didn't he defend himself?"

"With all due respect Mr. Maple, Ash did fight back, but not with his own fists. He fought using only his words. He has a kind soul and only uses violence as a last resort," answered Cilan. Iris gave her boyfriend an admiring look before hugging him, impressed by his words.

"And honestly Mr. Maple, if he did actually fight back, you would be the one who would require a hospital room right now," said Gary without fear, inspired by his childhood friend's courage.

Norman glared at Gary for a second who didn't look away. A moment later, he sighed and shook his head. Max didn't move, frozen in fear as he didn't know what his father would do, never seeing him in this type of situation. May however, went straight up to her father and looked him in the eye when he raised his head.

"I love him Dad. And I know he loves me too. But things are complicated." May glanced back at Misty, Serena and Dawn. The four nodded at each other, thinking it best to just let everyone know right now as they probably wouldn't get another chance to explain things. "You should know that I also know that he loves Misty, Dawn and Serena as well, and the three of them love him too."

Aside from their group, everyone else who just joined them let out cries of shock. Anabel went wide eyed at the revelation that the four girls were in love with Ash and that he loved them back.

"WHAT?!" yelled Norman, unable to say anything else.

"What kind of nonsense is this?!" shrieked Johanna, looking at her daughter. Dawn moved towards May, standing beside her.

"It's not nonsense Mom!" replied Dawn with a fierce gaze.

"Serena, please tell me this is a joke," said Grace, looking at her daughter. Serena left her mother's embrace and stood next to May on her other side.

"No Mom, it's not a joke," answered Serena calmly.

"Misty?" asked her three sisters together. Misty glanced at her sisters before smiling and moving to join the three.

"It's true. We each love Ash and he loves the each of us and we are happy with it all," answered the red head and the four girls stood close to one another and held hands to show that they meant what they were saying and that made their parents realize that they weren't kidding around.

"I will not stand by and let my only daughter be part of some sort of harem!" cried out Grace as she, Johanna and Caroline moved forward towards their daughters who shouted back protests. Misty's sisters and Norman looked at the four girls as if they were crazy while Delia gazed at them with wonder.

"Enough." It was a soft voice that said the word but it was said with authority, causing the arguing mothers and daughters to freeze in silence. Delia glanced at Professor Oak, who had seen enough and moved towards the four girls and stood between them and the three mothers.

Damn Gramps, I didn't know you had balls of steel to stop angry mothers like that, thought Gary, who was very impressed at his grandfather's bold move.

"You each say you love him?" asked Professor Oak.

"Yes," replied Misty, May, Dawn and Serena together at once.

"And he loves each of you the same?"

"Yes."

"Are you all 18 or over?"

"Yes."

"And this isn't the first time that Ash has saved each of you is it?"

"No."

Many people in the group had their eyes widened at this new bit of information that Ash had saved them before.

"Have you discussed what you each are looking for in a relationship with him?"

"Yes."

"Has he discussed what he's looking for with you?"

"Yes."

"Are you prepared for what may come in whatever scenario plays out and will you be alright with it?"

"Yes."

Professor Oak turned to face the parents. He stood quiet for a moment, thinking hard about how he should explain his thoughts. Finally he spoke.

"As of this moment, what these four young ladies and Ash have together, I can tell is unique and seems to be pure. We will not interfere with it and let it run its course. Whatever happens between them is between them as they are legally adults now and we must accept that fact. But there are more serious things going on right now and we should look into the matter at hand of the attack on the tournament. That is more important at the moment than what's going on between Ash and the four girls."

Several people among the large group nodded over the professor's words as the mothers glanced at each other but didn't say or do anything. Norman was still as a statue, the revelation shocking him, yet he still heard and listened to Professor Oak's words.

"However, we must be thankful that they and their friends have such strong bonds as only united can they survive against what may come next if this is just the start. They have each shown tremendous courage and strength of character and everyone in the world has seen it. And we must also be thankful that we have a powerful guardian amongst our midst."

Some tilted their heads in confusion as he said his last sentence. Oak chuckled before continuing.

"I am talking of course about Ash, as seeing the things he did at the tournament confirms what he is. Ash is probably the last true Aura Guardian, most likely from an ancient bloodline since his powers are so strong."

Many of the newer group members gasped as they heard the news, not knowing that the raven haired trainer was an Aura Guardian as the news didn't say what the blue glow and flames were around him. Delia shifted uncomfortably in her spot a bit as Oak revealed what her son is but kept quiet and luckily nobody noticed her distress.

"Johanna, Grace, Norman, Caroline, Daisy, Violet and Lily; I hope this information helps you feel better as only those with a pure heart can use Aura, even if from a bloodline of Aura Guardians. So if you are afraid that Ash is somehow tricking the girls into being his or just using them, you can rest easy on knowing in the fact that that is not the case."

The professor finished his speech and turned to face the four girls after eyeing the parents and Misty's sisters for a second who didn't argue or comment back.

"Good luck in all that you pursue. I hope the best case scenario plays out for you all."

The girls smiled at him and gave him a hug as he returned one of his own.

"Thank you Professor Oak," they said together at once who replied back with a smile. When they separated, Misty spoke to everyone.

"Please keep this between us, as we're not yet ready for anyone else to find out."

Everyone nodded, even the parents and Misty's sisters who smiled at their baby sister after a moment.

"You have a lot of explaining to do Misty," said Daisy as she pointed her finger at her as Misty smirked.

"Later. We're going to go check on Ash first."

Misty, Serena, May and Dawn moved together to go see Ash in his room. The three mothers sat down on the empty chairs as they held their heads in their hands, no doubt trying to process all the new information. Norman walked over to the wall to lean against it with his back as he crossed his arms, thinking over everything. Delia was frozen still but then got out of her trance when Oak gently placed his hand on her shoulder.

"Yes?" she asked.

"Are you alright?" asked Oak. Delia smiled a little.

"Yes, I'm fine. My baby is alright and apparently he has grown up so much. I never knew just how much and what he's been through," she remarked as she took an empty seat.

"You didn't know where he was either?" asked Oak, making everyone look at her. She shook her head.

"I see. I thought he would at least let you know but told you to keep quiet. I guess not this time."

The four girls returned after about ten minutes while the rest sat in silence. They sat together on a large empty couch across from their mothers, crossing their arms and legs. They told everyone that Brock and Joy had fixed him up and gave him a sleeping pill so he could rest who had returned before the four girls did. Misty's sisters joined them on the couch, sitting next to the red head. Daisy put an arm around her baby sister's shoulders.

"Looks like you're finally growing up baby sis," teased Daisy. Misty smiled as she grasped the necklace he had bought for her. Her sisters noticed and grinned.

"So he got you a present huh Misty? Let me see!" said Violet moving closer.

Everyone looked at the sisters, including Norman and the four mothers. Misty took off her hand and Violet saw it. She held it up closer to her eyes and saw it was a blue diamond shaped in a water drop. She flipped it over and read out loud the marked words on the back; "For my Mystic Mermaid, Misty Waterflower."

"Aww! How sweet! I never thought he'd be so romantic!" said Lily. "You're a very lucky girl Misty."

"Why does she get a gift and the others don't if he loves them equally huh? Well?" asked Johanna, her fingers drumming on her leg, a little angry. Delia frowned but Caroline and Grace crossed their arms and legs while they glared in agreement.

"Mom, I got a gift too. See!" Dawn held up her necklace as she got up and moved towards her mother, holding it in her hands. Johanna looked at it and saw it was a white gold star necklace. Dawn flipped it over so her mom can see the words indented in the back that the blunette read out loud; "For my Lucky Star, Dawn Berlitz."

Johanna looked at the gift, her expression softening a bit before looking at her daughter, who was completely happy and content. Her wall crumbled and she suddenly hugged her daughter who was not expecting that but quickly returned the hug, smiling and letting out soft tears.

"As long as your happy then I'm okay with it all Dawn," confessed Johanna as she gave her daughter a bear hug.

"Thanks Mom. I know you just want what's best for me. But honestly, the happiest I feel, besides coordinating and traveling, is when I'm with him. He makes sure I'm safe no matter what and I know he'll do anything and everything to make me happy. That's all I want Mom."

Hearing Dawn's words made Caroline and Grace look at their daughters May and Serena who were smiling at Dawn and her mother. Caroline and Grace understood right then and there. They got up, walked to the two and picked them up before hugging them.

"I'm so sorry for getting crazy. I'm just not used to this sort of thing as very few try it and fewer still make it work. I'm here for you no matter what. I promise," said Caroline as she hugged May.

"Thanks Mom. That's all I wanted to hear," replied May as she too began to get watery eyes.

"Serena, I'm not going to repeat their words but just so you know, I feel the same way. I'm here for you no matter what. But where are your and May's necklaces? Did he go broke?" Grace chuckled at her own corny joke, making a few people laugh, her daughter Serena among them.

"Thanks and no Mom," replied Serena, half chuckling half annoyed. "He gave Misty and Dawn necklaces because they had gone out on a date already. We decided to take turns and May and I have not had our dates yet."

"Turns? Okay, as much as I am happy of Ash's luck in having four great girls like yourselves standing by his side, you're going to have to explain what's going on," asked Delia as she moved towards them.

"Alright, we'll tell you. But when we go back to our hotel suite as if we tried to explain things here, we may be overheard," replied Misty.

The people in the new group agreed and dropped the subject for the time being. Everyone began to talk and catch up on what they've all been doing, telling jokes here and there as well. Nobody noticed Leaf walking down the hall towards Ash's room. Anabel took a seat next to Lucy and Brock, as she became lost in her thoughts.

So, he has already confessed his love for these four. I guess he never did see me as more than just a friend. Should I still tell him? Would he like me as well? Or would it just confuse him? Or scare him away from being my friend even? Damn it, what the hell should I do?

"Hey Anabel, are you okay?" asked Brock, noticing her quiet and sad demeanor. Lucy took note of her friend's sullen face and knew what it was about.

"She's fine Brock, probably just tired from her trip," said Lucy, saving her friend from answering. Anabel smiled at the two and when Brock looked away, she thanked her friend quietly.

"No problem," replied Lucy back whispering. "But I know what it's about so you better tell me later."

Anabel's eyes went wide and Lucy smirked before turning her attention back to the multiple conversations going on in front of her.

Leaf checked behind her as she reached Ash's room. Nobody was looking her way and she quickly entered the room. Lucario, Gardevoir and Pikachu smiled at the new guest in the room and Leaf returned one as well, waving to them.

"Hey guys. How's he doing?" she asked, moving to his side.

"Master is doing well. His stitches have been redone and his heart rate is normal. Joy gave him a sleeping pill so he should be out for a couple hours at least," responded Lucario.

"That's good to hear Lucario," said Leaf with a smile as Gardevoir and Pikachu beamed at her. "I have a favor to ask."

"Yes? What is it Lady Leaf?" asked the aura pokémon as he drew closer.

"Could you three give me a private moment with him? I want to tell him my thanks for saving my life. And also, thank you Lucario for saving my life as well."

"You are most welcome Lady Leaf. Master cares greatly for all his friends, human and pokémon. I will help him protect you all no matter what," replied Lucario with a bow.

"Not a problem Leaf. We'll go get some water down the hall, relax there for a few minutes and then come back after. Is that enough time?" asked Gardevoir.

"Yes, thank you."

The three pokémon left without another word and closed the door behind them. Leaf turned her attention back to her childhood friend, her eyes taking in as much as they could as she gazed at him sleeping. She then drew closer to him and stood right next to him as his breathing continued evenly.

"I'm so sorry that you are going through so much pain but I know you'll pull through. You've shown how strong you are and you saved my life. Literally." Leaf brushed a bit of his hair away that was covering his right eye before continuing as a small smile formed on her lips. "We used to be so close when we were kids…" began Leaf in a whisper but stopped as she glanced behind her at the door. She thought she heard something but when nothing happened she faced him again before she continued on. "I don't know what happened between us," she continued, still whispering. "I should've kept that promise to travel together with you. Maybe things would've been different…or maybe not. I've changed since that time but you haven't. Even as kids, you were the one who never gave up, who always faced any challenge head on and who always threw himself in front of others to protect them. I don't know why it took me so long but I've finally realized that you are more than just my childhood friend. You are the man of my dreams, the type of guy that I would proudly call mine. But I'm too late. You have already professed your love to the other four. I can't believe I'm saying this but I am jealous and envious of what they have with you. Maybe there is room for one more girl in your heart?" Leaf sighed after that question, knowing how ridiculous it sounds. "A desperate and pathetic hope isn't it? But I'm still glad for running into you again and I thank Arceus for it. Ever since crossing paths with you again, I've been changing and I've felt something inside me every time I looked at you or talked with you. Seeing you with the girls and seeing how happy you make them, made me feel it even more. I finally know what it all means. I want to be with you. I want you to be mine and I want to be yours and I will wait for you no matter how long it takes for you to see that. What I'm trying to say is…I'm in love with you Ash Ketchum."

With that, Leaf lowered her face close to Ash's and gently kissed him on his lips, closing her eyes as she did so and holding it there for several seconds before parting. She stayed hovering an inch over Ash's face, who let out a soft moan before quieting. Leaf smiled, a little ecstatic at causing him to make such a sound. A creak sounded out in the quiet room that made her whip around quickly. She saw Sarah and Anabel standing there with their mouths open and eyes wide over what they just witnessed.

"Ah fuck…" muttered Leaf under her breath as she realized just how much shit she just put herself in.