Memories of the Past 2...

Chapter 29.5 - Memories of the Past 2...

MEMORY #20

Ash, Pikachu, Serena, Clemont and Bonnie were at the docks, as Ash had to go back home. Ash said bye to Clemont and Bonnie and when he turned to Serena, Bonnie led her brother away with an excuse. Serena glanced at Ash who became embarrassed and scratched the back of his head, making her giggle.

"I guess I have to go home now," said Ash.

You have got to be kidding me, remarked the voice in his head.

"Yea," replied a sullen Serena.

"Serena, I'm going to miss you a lot," said Ash suddenly, making Serena go pink.

"I'll miss you too."

Are we really going to go through this again?

"And I wanted to tell you…" he trailed off, choking.

"Tell me what?" asked Serena, hope filling her.

You better tell her!

"I…wanted…to tell you…."

"Yes?"

"I wanted to tell you…good luck with your performances."

Dude! Come on…

"Oh. Thank you." Serena deflated, sad at not hearing what she wanted to hear.

The ship's horn blared, making them jump. Clemont and Bonnie returned, the small girl giving Ash a hug goodbye as her brother shook hands with Ash. Serena gave Ash a hug, holding on to him for too long to be just a regular hug, though Clemont didn't notice and neither did Ash, but Bonnie did who smiled.

"Take care Ash. And you better keep in touch," said Serena as they separated.

"Thanks and I will. Same to you all," said Ash as he smiled at them before turning to run to board the ship. Pikachu had jumped onto his shoulder before he ran down.

I can't keep doing this, thought Ash as he ran down the pier to the ship, boarding it on time. He looked back and saw the three wave goodbye at him which he returned with his own wave.

You said it. Why does this keep happening to you, asked the voice in his head.

I don't know but no more.

No more?

I need to get away from everything.

Why?

To figure out why this keeps happening to me.

Good idea. Then maybe you'll stop messing up a girl's life. The count is at four now. That we KNOW of.

Very funny and I don't mean to! And she deserves someone who'll never fail her. They all do.

Even so you still did and you have got to stop thinking that way.

Easier said than done.

The memory faded away and another appeared as Misty, May, Dawn, and Serena looked at one another, having finally learned what Ash had gone through in regards to the four of them.

MEMORY #21

Ash was at Mount Silver, practicing his aura abilities after getting a few lessons from Master Riley. He was meditating, sitting at the edge of the mountain with a blue glow that outlined him and his starter while the freezing wind shot around him and Pikachu yet they sat still, not reacting to the cold. The people watching were beyond impressed as how he wasn't affected by the blistering cold of the mountain's blizzard. Besides the howling blizzard around the two, it was silent until they heard his thoughts.

Why am I so afraid to tell a girl I like her? he thought.

You're blowing this out of proportion, remarked the voice in his head.

No I'm not. And can't I think without you bothering me?

Well somebody's moody.

Whatever...Who are you anyway? How are you able to speak with me? Are you a psychic? Where are you? And why are you talking to me?

...

Oh now you shut up. After years of bothering me. Great, thanks for nothing.

I was merely thinking on how to respond to you. All I can say is I'm a friend. I can't speak with you all the time as I am a busy person but we've met before during your pokémon journey and I decided to help you from time to time. I can't tell you my name until we meet again. Work rules.

I see. Well, I guess that sounds alright. You haven't really done anything wrong except try to help me…though in your own twisted way…So help me out with this. What's keeping me from doing so? I'd throw myself into battles against legendary pokémon and fight against evil organizations without hesitation but I'm too scared to tell a girl I like her. Why? What the hell is the cause? Why do I feel like I'm not good enough? What the hell is the answer?

That is something that even I cannot help you out with. You have to figure this out for yourself, replied the voice.

Thanks for the help, replied Ash sarcastically.

Hearing his thoughts made several tilt their heads. Everyone was curious as to who the voice belonged to. It made things seem very suspicious and made them worry about his problem. But some thought that it could very well be just a friend. Even Lance was having second thoughts about it too. The Kanto Champion was beginning to feel like an idiot for doubting Ash because of seeing everything he's done so far but still held his reservations for the time being until they finished with the memories. Very few knew about the dilemma regarding the girls and Ash, which only the four girls and Joy knew about so they felt sad at hearing it again and knowing the reason why he was like that and he would later figure out.

After a few more minutes of him meditating and thinking, Ash and Pikachu got up and went inside a cabin nearby. A moment later Ash opened the door and saw Mewtwo standing there with a surprised look on his face. Many people gasped and shouted seeing the legendary pokémon again, since last they saw he was trying to destroy everyone and everything in one of the earlier memories.

"Took you long enough. Want to come inside or do you want to freeze your tail off first?" joked Ash.

"I should've known," replied Mewtwo as he stepped inside.

"What brings you here Mewtwo?" asked Ash as he continued preparing some soup while putting on some clothes that were better suited for the cold weather.

"I've come to get you. There is something you must help me with," said Mewtwo and the memory faded away.

MEMORY #22

Ash was on the video phone at Professor Oak's laboratory and was speaking with his friends. Mewtwo and Riolu were standing in the same room waiting for him to finish. The people watched as he told them he was going away to help out a friend and to keep up their training. They realized that his 'friend' had to be Mewtwo as it now made some sense. Ash's friends saw themselves get angry and sad over Ash's words and they instantly remembered how they felt that day. They watched on as Ash said goodbye, asking them to remember him as he hung up crying.

They then witnessed Professor Oak hand him an updated PokeDex, a Poketch and a bag filled with all of his pokémon's poke balls with his pokémon already inside them. He then traveled to his home and picked up some supplies from his mom. Mewtwo's eyes glowed blue and the purple feline, Ash, Pikachu and Riolu teleported away to the inside of a well furnished mini-mansion, making the memory viewers gasp in surprise.

"Okay, so we got some supplies, almost all of my pokémon and that just leaves a few others out in the wild or that are with others and then we go take care of business," said Ash and the pokémon around him nodded in agreement.

"After that, we should start on our mission. I remember the research I did long ago during my darker days and I still remember where we can find some powerful pokémon to add to the group and train for the coming days," added Mewtwo.

"Sounds good buddy. We should follow the plan we made. Remember, during our first year we are to look for powerful pokémon to join the team. Then the next two years is nonstop heavy training both here and around the world. We'll start practicing but just a little during our first year. C'mon, let's get started," replied Ash and they disappeared in blue glows as the memory faded and another formed while everyone had confused looks on their faces when he talked about the plan.

MEMORY #23

"That was a great catch Master," stated Riolu. "That Ponyta has an incredible spirit."

"Stop calling me Master, Riolu but yea you're right. She'll be an incredible fighter and…wait…do you feel that sad aura?" asked Ash as he, Pikachu, Riolu and Mewtwo traveled through a dense forest. They were looking for more pokémon and Ash was wearing a hooded cloak along with a mask to conceal his identity.

"It's coming from over here," answered Riolu, using his aura senses to verify and Mewtwo agreed immediately after as he had sensed it long before. He didn't mention it since he wanted Ash to practice and to see how long it would take for him to sense it. He and Riolu had agreed on it since both their senses were at their peak for the time being and Ash needed the practice and would only say something if he missed it.

The group traveled in the direction that the canine pokémon pointed at and soon found a small white and green pokémon on the floor, covered in bruises, bleeding from some cuts and barely conscious. Ash ran to the pokémon and knelt down beside it, causing the small pokémon to whimper in fright. Misty gasped, covering her mouth with her hands, realizing who it was first before the others did.

"Hey, don't be scared Kirlia. I'm not here to hurt you. I can help if you let me," said Ash kindly but Kirlia shook her head, crying. She attempted to get away by crawling but couldn't. Instead she laid still on the ground since she was so hurt.

"As much as I would like to find the bastards responsible for this, our time is short. We don't have time for games. Just take her and we'll leave her at a pokémon center," stated Mewtwo.

"I don't want to force any pokémon but maybe you're right. She's hurt extremely bad," replied Ash but then looked to the side as he, Riolu and Mewtwo sensed some people approaching.

"Ah man, I thought you were a pokémon!" whined a stranger with two friends when the three walked through some bushes. "I thought using that pokémon as bait would've brought better pokémon out. Oh well."

"You did this to your own pokémon?" asked Ash, angered, as he stood up. Pikachu had sparks fly out of his cheeks and Riolu growled. Mewtwo had made himself invisible but stayed next to them though they could hear his thoughts being sent to Ash and they weren't pretty, making some of the viewers cringe at what they heard him say. Ash very slightly shook his head that the new trainers didn't catch.

"My OWN pokémon? Yea right. I found that pathetic thing a little while ago and battled it and it didn't even last a minute against my Aggron. We left it there hoping some other pokémon might come by to check on it or to get a free meal," admitted the stranger as his two friends laughed.

"People like you give trainers a bad name. You disgust me. You don't deserve to be friends with pokémon, let alone train them!" growled Ash as his eyes glowed a blue catching the attention of the three and Kirlia lifted her head slightly to glance at Ash, not believing what she just heard. The people watching felt shivers go down their spines at hearing the coldness in his voice.

"Who the fuck do you think you are? Let's show this naïve punk what happens to those who mess with us."The three released their pokémon; Aggron, Snorlax and Hariyama appeared.

Ash, want me to handle this? I could crush their minds in less than a second.

Thanks Mewtwo but no. Nicely done going invisible.

Alright and you did say to not be seen by others.

"Maybe if you apologize, we may call our pokémon back," sniggered the stranger but Ash just growled. "Alright then it's your funeral! Get them!"

The three large pokémon advanced at Ash, Pikachu, Riolu and Kirlia.

"Pikachu…Thunder," ordered Ash.

"PIKA…CHUUU!" The yellow mouse launched the attack and a large pillar of electrical energy slammed down on the three pokémon at once, making them writhe and cry out in extreme pain.

While the three pokémon were being shocked, Ash and Riolu glanced at each other before nodding. Riolu disappeared from sight before anyone could even realize what happened and a moment later, the three large pokémon dropped to the floor, knocked out with multiple bruises and scorch marks on their bodies. Riolu reappeared, having used a Close Combat and Power Up Punch combination. The aura canine was not even the least bit tired and neither was Pikachu. Both pokémon were snarling, scaring the three strangers.

"That rodent's from hell!" shouted one of the two who hadn't spoken before as they were utterly stupefied at what just happened.

"Please! We're sorry! Don't hurt us!" cried the third man.

"Return your pokémon and take them to a pokémon center. If I ever find out you don't treat pokémon properly again, I may not be able to control my pokémon let alone my own rage. NOW LEAVE!" roared Ash. The three ran away after returning their pokémon, shouting out apologies as Mewtwo reappeared.

"Well done Ash. I read their minds and they each swore to change their ways," remarked Mewtwo.

"Good." Ash knelt down beside Kirlia and fixed his gaze on hers. "Kirlia, I'm sorry for what they did to you. Please allow me to take you to a pokémon center so you can get healed up."

Kirlia looked at him for a second before shaking her head again. She still was unsure of trusting him as a couple trainers had tricked her before doing the same thing.

"Ash, we don't have time for this," repeated Mewtwo, getting impatient. Ash removed his mask and lowered his hood before responding.

"Yes we do Mewtwo. It's only been four months since you came to me. We still have time on our side so be a little patient. Kirlia, you need to get treatment. If you come with me, I promise that I will never let anything happen to you. I will protect you from everything and anything. You can train with me or just relax by my side. I won't force you to do anything that you don't want to do."

"You can trust him Kirlia. He is a man of his word. And he saved me as well," added Riolu, kneeling down to face her and Kirlia's eyes widened at the revelation, thinking hard before she finally nodded.

"Okay. Mewtwo get us to the nearest center," smiled Ash as he gently picked her up after putting his mask on and hood up once more. The five of them vanished from the spot. They reappeared at a pokémon center. The resident Nurse Joy took Kirlia in and after healing her, Ash stayed by Kirlia's side the whole night. In the morning Kirlia joined Ash after he promised her again to always be there for her and to keep her safe. The memory faded away and another formed while many of the viewers smiled over what he did.

MEMORY #24

Ash was seen leaning over a desk table with a bunch of books spread out in front of him along with three computer screens that was turned on in front of him. The screen on the left was showing a Poke Dex like entry on his Charizard with details such as height, weight, pokémon type, fastest running speed, fastest flying speed, abilities, moves known, moves capable of learning, his stats, weaknesses, strengths, resistances, etc. The screen on the right showed a calendar with the days that were past marked with an 'X' and had some notes on certain days such as 'Sinnoh – Mount Coronet' on an upcoming Thursday, 'Hoenn – Mount Pyre' on Friday and several others. There was also a 'time passed' indicator and a 'time remaining' indicator at the bottom of the calendar. The time passed showed eight months and the time remaining showed two different countdowns. One said two years and four months left and the second said four years and four months left. The third and final screen that was in the middle was on a news website that showed world news and with live streaming of important or interesting events.

Ash had a notebook in front of him that was turned to a page that was half way filled. There were other papers as well that were on the desk. They saw that each of the papers had a different title and had different lists. One was a list of all the known technical machines, which were used to teach pokémon new moves that they could learn. Another had a list of a bunch of pokémon that had a title of 'Captured'. They were stunned that he had caught so many since the list was spread out over three columns. Another paper had another list spread into columns of pokémon with a title that read 'Need to Catch'. Another paper with it being completely filled out was titled 'Resistance Exercises'. The last paper that they could make out had a title that read 'Combination Moves'.

The paper he was working on right now though had a title that stated 'Moves to Teach'. He had several pokémon listed on the page he was currently on such as Pikachu, Lucario, Greninja, Sceptile and Charizard. Under each pokémon's name there was a list of attacks that he wanted them to learn. As he continued working on the paper, the middle screen showing the news website suddenly updated with a new broadcast, catching Ash's attention since the lighting on the screen changed colors. The title of the news report said 'MISSING TRAINER FROM PALLET'. Wondering if it was about him or someone else, he increased the volume to hear it and watched.

"HELLO EVERYONE, THIS IS BRITNEY SNOW REPORTING LIVE FROM CERULEAN CITY. I'M HERE IN FRONT OF THE FAMOUS CERULEAN GYM, ONE OF THE TOUGHEST GYMS TO GET A BADGE FROM SINCE THE INCREDIBLE MISTY WATERFLOWER HAS TAKEN UP ITS CHARGE A FEW YEARS AGO. BUT THAT'S NOT THE REASON WHY WE'RE HERE. IT'S BEEN EIGHT MONTHS SINCE ANYONE HAS SEEN OR HEARD FROM THE PALLET TOWN TRAINER ASH KETCHUM. MANY HAVE GONE TO SEARCH FOR HIM BUT NOBODY HAS HAD ANY LUCK. WE ARE ABOUT TO ENTER THE GYM AND SPEAK WITH THE GYM LEADER MISTY TO SEE IF SHE HAS ANY NEWS OF HIM SINCE IT'S WELL KNOWN THAT THEY ARE CLOSE FRIENDS AND RUMORED TO BE IN A RELATIONSHIP TOGETHER. LET'S GO!"

Ash felt his heart rate go higher as he clenched his chair's hand rest. He would be seeing Misty on the news channel after so long of not talking or seeing her. He watched as Britney entered the dome shaped gym with her camera man following behind her while she talked. Suddenly, a blue glow appeared next to Ash.

"Ash, we're ready to go find that Zoroark. Are you ready to go?" asked Mewtwo.

"Just a minute. I want to watch this," replied Ash and Mewtwo nodded as he turned his attention to the news as well. They started hearing the sounds of a battle going on.

"LOOKS LIKE THERE'S A BATTLE GOING ON RIGHT NOW. LET'S HURRY AS WE MAY BE ABLE TO SEE AT LEAST THE END OF IT!"Britney and her camera man hurried along down the hallway and found the battle arena in time to see a torrent of pressurized water hit the challenger's pokémon, knocking it out.

"Damn it…I thought I had it," sighed the challenger as he returned his fainted pokémon, which was a Pidgeotto. The young boy thanked the gym leader for showing that he's not ready yet and ran towards the exit as the red headed girl approached the reporter.

"Can I help you?" asked Misty. She was wearing her yellow swimsuit with white shorts over it. Ash had his heart rate beat faster at the sight of her. Wow, she's even more beautiful than I remember. Memory Ash's thoughts made Misty blush as some smiled and the girls nudged Misty slightly who shouted at them to stop, making the others laugh at the situation.

"HELLO MISTY. I'M BRITNEY SNOW, A REPORTER FOR KANTO NEWS. GREAT BATTLE BY THE WAY."

"Ah, thanks. So why are you here?"

"WELL, THIS MAY BE A TOUCHY SUBJECT BUT WE'RE DOING A PIECE ON ASH KETCHUM AND HOW HE'S BEEN MISSING FOR EIGHT MONTHS NOW."Misty's face grew sullen and Ash felt his heart drop into his stomach. Mewtwo placed his three digit hand on his shoulder to help calm him and show support. Real Misty suddenly went a little sad as she remembered what happened next as she continued watching the memory. "YOU JUST CAME BACK FROM A TRIP OF YOUR OWN SO WE WERE WONDERING IF YOU HAD GOTTEN WORD OF HIM OR KNOW WHERE HE IS SINCE IT'S KNOWN THAT YOU TWO ARE VERY CLOSE. BY THE WAY ARE YOU JUST FRIENDS OR ARE YOU TOGETHER? IS THERE ANYTHING THAT YOU CAN TELL US SUCH AS IF HE'S ALRIGHT OR WHY HE'S DISAPPEARED? DO YOU HAVE ANY INFOR-"

"PLEASE STOP!" shouted Misty suddenly and Britney went quiet immediately. Before either of them could say anything, more voices were heard.

"Is everything alright Misty?" asked a female's voice.

They turned around to see a blunette, a brunette and a honey blonde haired girl approaching them. Each of them was wearing a swimsuit with shorts over them. Ash's eyes went wide at the sight of them as a couple thoughts went through his head; when did Misty, May, Dawn and Serena start hanging out together? And were they always this stunning?

Once again, the four girls were nudged by their mothers and friends and they shouted at them to stop and that next person who does that is getting slapped. They stopped instantly and several people sweat dropped.

"Yea, everything's fine," sighed Misty as the girls gathered around her. Misty faced Britney again as her friends stood beside her. After a moment of silence that Misty used to think, she spoke again. "Look, I'm sorry but I don't want to talk about Ash. And no we're not together." Ash had a sullen look appear on his face and slumped down into his chair. "I don't want to talk about how he's disappeared and how no one can find him. It's bad enough I can't stop thinking about him without you and other people asking about him. My friends here and I even went looking for him together but found no trace of him. So please stop asking about him okay? Now please leave." Britney nodded and turned to leave but then Misty stopped her. "Wait! I need to say something else as well." Britney nodded and the cameraman focused onto the four girls. Misty glanced at her friends who nodded at her to show their support before she looked into the camera and took a deep breath before speaking. "Ash, if you're watching this there's something the four of us want you to know. We don't know where you are and we don't know what you're doing…but know that we miss you…we want you to come back home. We know you said you're helping out a friend but it's been eight months. That's the longest amount of time that we haven't heard from you so far. If you're not done helping your friend yet can you at least call so we know that you're alright? Please Ash…"

Misty couldn't talk anymore as her eyes had filled up with water and she started sobbing and the same thing happened to the girls beside her. Even Britney was about to cry but kept it at bay to finish her reporting.

"THIS IS BRITNEY SNOW AND THERE YOU HAVE IT. EVEN HIS CLOSEST FRIENDS HAVEN'T SEEN OR HEARD OF HIM. ASH, IF YOU'RE OUT THERE AND YOU'RE SEEING THIS, PLEASE COME BACK. EVERYONE MISSES YOU AND IS WORRIED ABOUT YOU. OR AT LEAST CALL. THIS IS BRITNEY SNOW SIGNING OFF."

The news website screen went black before it went back to the home page. Ash had tears going down his cheeks as he raised his left hand that had his Poketch on it. He went through the call menu and found Misty's number. Right when he was about to contact her, he was stopped.

"You know you shouldn't do that Ash."

"I know. But it can't hurt can it? Just a quick message at least to let her know I'm fine and that I'm thinking about them every day too. Please Mewtwo," pleaded Ash as he looked at him but Mewtwo shook his head.

"Remember we had known of this from the start. We are to make no contact. I know it's hard but you must continue this way. At least until the tournament starts. That's in less than two and a half years," reminded Mewtwo and many of the viewers gasped as they learned that Ash knew that the Spirit Tournament would be happening long before anyone else.

"Alright! Fine!" shouted Ash angrily as he looked away before he calmed down. "I just miss them so much."

"I know. But you're strong and you'll be able to push through. Let's go Ash. We have some more pokémon to go catch. But first, we'll get Pikachu, Lucario and Kirlia. You know how she gets scared without you around, even though she's taking a liking to Pikachu and Lucario. Afterwards, we'll come back and we'll work on the move tutor machine we were talking about before. But before we leave…"

Mewtwo's eyes glowed blue and a second later, a small blue sphere appeared on the desk and faded away to reveal a photograph. Ash picked it up and saw that it was a group picture of him, his family and all of his friends who had come to his house in Pallet Town after returning from Kalos in the first week since his mom made a surprise get together without telling him; he, Misty, Brock, May, Max, Dawn, Iris, Cilan, Serena, Clemont, Bonnie, Richie, Gary, Professor Oak and his Mom were all smiling in the photo. Mewtwo had teleported it from the wall of his room in his home in Pallet. He smiled at the picture, as he looked at each face for a second. Ash folded the photo and put it in his pocket before he turned his tear streaked gaze at Mewtwo. Before the psychic feline knew what was happening, he was being hugged by the raven haired guardian.

"Thank you buddy."

"You're welcome. Let's go. They're waiting for us."

Ash nodded as they separated, wiping away his tears. He and Mewtwo disappeared in blue glows as the memory faded and another formed.

MEMORY #25

Ash was in the middle of a training session, working on his aura abilities with Lucario at the top of Mount Chimney, the active volcano in the Hoenn region. His large group of many different pokémon was training as well all around the peak of the mountain next to the center where the lava was. There were so many around them that the people watching the memory couldn't count them all. They could see a faint purple mist around the volcano's sides. Mewtwo had set up a barrier around them that made people and pokémon who came too close to them to remember something important and leave. They saw that several of his pokémon had evolved and were in full blown battles with one another.

"Well done Master," said Lucario as Ash sent an Aura Sphere at him who blocked it with his own attack. "You have perfected the technique required to use an Aura Sphere. Right now it will stun your opponent but it will only continue to get stronger and much more devastating against your enemies the more you use it. Let us practice defensive moves now." Ash nodded before he put up an Aura Shield as Lucario shot many weaker attacks at him though he held his shield. "Your Aura Shield technique is still perfect. All you need to do is make it stronger to resist stronger attacks."

"Let's focus on that a bit as we kick things up a notch," remarked Mewtwo as he joined the two. He shot his own Aura Sphere at Ash, who barely held the shield against the attack. Mewtwo shot a couple more spheres at him, causing the shield to bear some cracks here and there but somehow Ash was able to hold it. When Mewtwo finished, Ash dropped to his hands and knees, the shield disappearing.

"It's been a while since I left home. Four months of intense training everyday and I can barely keep an Aura Shield up against a few strong attacks," admitted Ash as he gasped for air.

"Nobody becomes great over night or in a short time. You know that better than anyone. But you must push through Ash. When we face our greatest battles, we will not be shown mercy."

"Mewtwo is right Master. We must go past our limits so we can be ready to protect everyone when the time comes," added Lucario.

Hearing the two pokémon talk about protecting everyone and fighting great battles with no mercy made many people wonder what he was preparing for. Before they could dwell on it, hearing Ash made them focus their attention back onto the memory.

"I know, I know. You're right. I'll do better."Ash took a long breath before he got up and Lucario nodded at the psychic feline before both he and Mewtwo readied Aura Spheres to launch at Ash.

Ash took up a defensive position, his eyes glowed blue and he had a blue glow outline him. He readied another Aura Shield and nodded at them to begin the training. Mewtwo and Lucario shot the Aura Spheres at him. Both blue energy spheres exploded against his shield but it held. More was shot at the shield and yet Ash was able to hold.

"You're getting better Master. But those were only child's play. Time for full powered attacks!" warned Lucario, making Ash sweat drop and the memory viewers to gulp and get scared for Ash.

Lucario fired a Flash Cannon and Mewtwo launched an Ice Beam at the shield. Both attacks struck the shield and pushed Ash back but he was able to still hold the shield up even though several cracks appeared on the shield. More attacks were launched by both pokémon and struck the shield that caused more cracks to form. Seeing Ash not putting more into it, Lucario told Mewtwo to stand down for the rest of the training session as he had other plans before the aura canine charged forward towards Ash.

"You must concentrate Master!" roared Lucario as slammed against the shield before he began striking the shield with physical attacks now such as Metal Claw and Force Palm. The people watching the memory grew even more worried of the intensity of Lucario's training.

"I am! It's too much! I need a break!" pleaded Ash but Lucario ignored him.

"Your enemies will not give you a break! They will not warn you! They will not go easy on you or show you any mercy! YOU MUST PUSH THROUGH!" shouted Lucario as he launched another Flash Cannon that exploded on the shield, causing Ash to be pushed back more.

"I'm at my limit! I'm still learning! I CAN'T DO MORE!" retorted Ash as he felt his energy go down a bit.

Lucario growled in response and started using Power Up Punch and Shadow Claw, making more cracks appear on the shield. All of Ash's pokémon heard the shouting and stopped their training. They gathered around Lucario, Mewtwo and Ash. Many of his pokémon were worried but knew not to get involved. Kirlia had tears in her eyes and wanted to go to Lucario to stop him but was held back by Pikachu. When she glanced at the electric mouse, he shook his head, telling her that he wanted it to stop too but this was necessary. Kirlia kept crying but stood her ground.

"IS THIS YOUR EXCUSE?! IS THIS WHAT YOU'RE GOING TO SAY WHEN YOU FAIL THEM?!"

A series of Shadow Claws struck the shield, causing it to flicker.

"I WON'T FAIL THEM! I'LL DO EVERYTHING I CAN FOR THEM!"

A Dragon Pulse was launched at the shield, making the cracks larger.

"AT THIS RATE YOU WILL FAIL! YOU'RE GOING TOO EASY, TOO CAUTIOUSLY! YOU NEED TO BREAK PAST YOUR LIMITS! YOU AREN'T EVEN USING YOUR FULL AURA POWERS! YOU'RE AFRAID TO LET IT COME OUT! BRING IT OUT! BRING IT OUT NOW!" roared Lucario.

The aura canine took a couple steps back and began powering up an attack. A blue ball of aura energy began swirling in his hands and Ash's eyes grew wide. He knew what it is; an Aura Beam. One of the advanced techniques he could learn later on IF he could become stronger. He summoned some more aura to strengthen his shield and hoped it would be enough.

"THAT WON'T STOP ME FOR LONG!" bellowed Lucario as he fired the powerful Aura Beam.

Many viewers screamed in fright at what they were seeing. Ash's training was harsh and Lucario was ruthless. They saw the blue beam of powerful aura energy hit the shield and pushed Ash back. The shield was having more and more cracks appear on it as Lucario kept up the attack.

"I CAN'T HOLD IT FOR LONG! PLEASE STOP LUCARIO!"

"I WILL NOT STOP! NOT UNTIL YOU PUSH IT BACK! NOT UNTIL YOU TAKE ME DOWN!"

"I CAN'T! I'M NOT STRONG ENOUGH YET!"

"IS THAT WHAT YOU'RE GOING TO SAY TO THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE WHEN YOU FAIL TO PROTECT THEM? TO YOUR MOTHER? TO YOUR FRIENDS? TO YOUR POKÉMON? ARE YOU GOING TO MAKE EXCUSES? ARE YOU GOING TO JUST LET THEM SUFFER PAINFUL DEATHS WHILE YOU JUST STAND THERE AND SAY YOU'RE SORRY?!"

Ash growled a bit and tried to summon more energy but he was losing focus due to his anger, his frustrations and being afraid to bring forth his power.

"YOU HAVE THE POWER NEEDED SO SHOW ME OTHERWISE! SHOW ME YOUR POWER! SHOW ME THAT YOU ARE WORTHY OF THE TITLE OF AURA GUARDIAN! SHOW ME THAT YOU ARE WORTHY OF BECOMING A POKÉMON MASTER! SHOW ME THAT YOU DO CARE AND LOVE YOUR FRIENDS! YOUR FAMILY! YOUR POKÉMON! SHOW ME! SHOW ME NOW!"

Ash heard Lucario as he was being pushed slowly back towards the edge of the volcano. He thought of his mother and how she was always there waiting for him when he got home. He thought of his friends Brock and Max who he thought of his brothers. He thought of Gary and Richie and how they were his rivals. He thought of Cilan and Iris and their journey together throughout Unova. He thought of Clemont and Bonnie and their journey together throughout Kalos. He thought of all the people he met during his journeys such as Lance, Cynthia, Sabrina, Jack, Harrison, Flannery, Tierno, Trevor, Shauna and many others. He then thought of the girls that he had developed feelings for while they traveled together. He thought of the loyal red head, Misty. He thought of the motherly brunette May. He thought of the always cheerful blunette Dawn. He thought of the passionate honey blonde girl Serena.

He thought of everything that they experienced together. Flashes of their travels together went across his mind's eye. He then thought of them getting hurt and him not being strong enough to protect them. He thought of him losing them to evil. He thought of him letting them down, disappointing them. He thought how he couldn't live with himself if anything ever happened to them.

Suddenly, Ash felt something within him snap. He knew at that moment that he had to get stronger. He had to reach his limit and break past. He had to reach a level far above any before him so he can protect them from what was coming. He knew now what he had to do.

Ash narrowed his eyes and the blue glow in them began to shine brightly as he focused. He searched deep within himself to bring out the power he knows he has. Lucario sensed what his Master was trying to do and pushed harder, concentrating more energy into the Aura Beam. The beam became thicker and began pushing Ash back faster. Right when Ash was pushed to the edge of the volcano, he found the power he has and dug his heels into the ground.

"LUCARIO!" roared Ash as he began drawing out his full power. "I..." Howling winds began swirling around Ash from out of nowhere. "WILL…" The very ground began shaking. First lightly and then stronger and stronger. "NOT…" Streaks of blue light began escaping from Ash's body. "FAIL!"

A bright blue light erupted from Ash that blinded everyone in the memory and those watching for a split second before they were able to see again. Blue flame-like aura had emerged from his body and was dancing around him wildly and his shield instantly became stronger. The winds died down and so did the earthquake after a few seconds. Ash began pushing against the beam with his shield as he took a step forward. Then another. And another.

"My god…" whispered Oak as he watched Ash bring out his power for the first time under such pressure.

"Incredible," commented a stunned Riley at seeing a newbie Aura Guardian have so much power right from the beginning while everyone else was too stunned to say anything.

"THAT'S IT MASTER! PUSH THROUGH! BREAK YOUR LIMITS! YOU HAVE FOUND THE POWER YOU HAVE! NOW USE IT! REACH ME! DEFEAT ME! PROVE THAT YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO SAVE EVERYONE! PROVE IT NOW!"

Hearing Lucario's challenge made Ash focus all of his being into pushing back the beam. He took a couple more steps forward but then couldn't anymore as Lucario put even more energy into the attack.

"IS THAT IT?! IS THAT THE EXTENT OF YOUR GREAT POWER?! YOU WILL LOSE EVERYTHING! IF YOU CANNOT EVEN BEAT ME WHEN I'M NOT EVEN USING HALF OF MY STRENGTH, HOW WILL YOU FARE AGAINST OTHERS?!"

Hearing that this display of Lucario's power wasn't even half of it made everyone's jaw drop. How could he be so powerful?! As they continued watching they saw that Ash was struggling even though he had brought out his aura.

"I'm disappointed Master. You have brought out your power but still you are afraid to use it and because of that you cannot win against me. Let me show you what is possible when you embrace it. LET ME SHOW YOU MY FULL POWER!"

Lucario's eyes glowed blue and his aura flared up around him. He focused his power into the attack and once ready, he added it to the Aura Beam. The blue beam of energy tripled in size and the power of it was unbelievable. It raced across the volcano top and smashed into Ash's Aura Shield, causing dozens of cracks to form instantly as it made him go flying back towards the edge once more. Ash was stunned for a second but his shield held somehow and he quickly lowered his feet to dig into the ground, which made extreme pain shoot through his legs. He stopped again near the very edge. He felt incredible pain on his body but he would not give up.

But how could he continue? He brought out his aura already. What could make him focus his power even more? His mind wondered to the girls again and how much he cared about them and that he couldn't let anything happen to them no matter what. His power skyrocketed suddenly out of nowhere and he finally understood. His power didn't come from anger. It didn't come from trying to be the best. It didn't come from focusing on the mission. No. It came from love. His love for the girls. His love for his pokémon. His love for his friends. That was his power. And it was now time to use that power.

"IS THAT ALL YOU GOT LUCARIO?!" shouted Ash and Lucario tilted his head in surprise at hearing Ash talk since he thought that he was struggling to keep the shield up. "BECAUSE IF THAT'S IT, THEN THIS IS OVER!"

Ash used his incredible power to strengthen his shield and it expanded against the Aura Beam. The shield kept expanding and expanding, pushing the Aura Beam back. Lucario's eyes grew wide at the sight of his Master's shield expanding greatly and kept going while he walked towards him. Ash started pushing back the beam, walking towards it as his shield stopped expanding after growing to twice his height. He kept pushing and pushing until he was barely twenty feet away from Lucario. Lucario smirked as Ash grinned while they were still pushing against one another.

"Well done Master. I am glad that you have learned where your power comes from. But there is something you should know; I lied about that being my full power."

Everyone watching the memory gasped and Ash's eyes widened when Lucario said that. With a mighty roar, Lucario channeled his entire remaining aura into the attack and the Aura Beam grew so large that it completely engulfed Ash's shield, shattering it and blasting Ash back. The raven haired guardian flew across the air with smoke trailing his body before crashing against the ground and his aura faded away. Lucario immediately went to work on healing his Master with Heal Pulse. Mewtwo told the pokémon to get ready to teleport back home to rest once they healed Ash a bit.

"You think we got carried away? I mean it's only been a couple months since we started training heavily," asked Lucario, worried that he may have gone overboard.

"No. When it starts, we will be shown no mercy and the only way to prepare for that is this type of training. We don't go easy on our selves, on each other until one drops to the floor, as his pokémon have done until now. All of us know what is coming and what is at stake. The time will come when we will be glad we went through this type of training," answered Mewtwo.

Lucario sighed and said no more. A moment later, he finished healing Ash of most of his minor wounds and he slowly stood up while complimenting Lucario's strength and strategy. Lucario returned the praise and told Ash that they would have to work harder now. Ash nodded before Mewtwo's eyes glowed blue and they all vanished as the memory faded and another formed.

MEMORY #26

A large stadium was seen with a raven haired trainer working out with a series of exercising equipment in at one edge of the arena while dozens of pokémon were running laps around the outer edges of the arena. While they did the laps, they would run up a set of stairs and then run down the next set of stairs, run up the next and on and on, working on their endurance. Ash was currently performing some bench presses while a Machamp was spotting him. Many of the females in the group, both young and old, went extremely red at the sight of Ash's toned but not too muscular body that was covered in sweat, since he was only wearing work out pants. Some of the guys sighed at how the females were swooning over him but didn't comment as they really didn't want to anger them. An angered girl was not something you wanted to deal with at all.

"97…" grunted Ash as he pushed up on the heavy weight and Machamp nodded in approval and cried out its name to encourage his trainer to keep going. "98…99…100."

CLUNK! Ash had set the bar back onto the small but strong metal holders. He sat up and panted a bit, his six pack abs tightening, making the girls inhale sharply at the sight.

"Damn, that was tiring." Ash glanced at his Machamp who smirked at him. "Yea, yea, I know you can do more but I'm only human alright? Three hundred pounds is a great amount for us," explained Ash as his fighting type pokémon chuckled at him.

Everyone besides Lucario, Gardevoir and Pikachu had their jaws drop once they heard the amount of weight that he had been lifting. Even trained athletes had some trouble benching two hundred pounds a dozen times yet Ash did more weight and did it a hundred times. They couldn't believe it but didn't comment as they watched him get up, take a drink from a water bottle and sat on another machine that involved his legs. Before he started he called out to his pokémon.

"Alright guys, good job but now launch a special attack into the air every time you reach the top of the stairs!"

His pokémon didn't even respond back and Ash didn't need them to as he knew they would do it. Not even a minute later and many different types of elemental attacks were shot into the air once his pokémon reached the top of the first set of stairs they reached after he added the new command and continued doing so every time they reached the top of a set of stairs.

"Impressive," commented Diantha and several people glanced at her. "He's combining physical endurance training with move endurance training," she explained and they understood.

They returned their attention back to the memory and saw the pokémon continue their training with the added variation while Ash began working out his legs. They saw that the weight was at five hundred pounds and he was pushing against the machine with a little bit of ease. Once again the viewers were stunned as to how strong he had become. They watched him get to fifty repetitions, which surprisingly didn't take too long before he was stopped by Lucario who had entered the arena.

"Master, I have some good news." Ash stood up and gave him his full attention after taking another drink of water. "Mewtwo was finally able to build the move tutor machine. Any attack that our comrades can learn, whether naturally, by use of technical machine, breeding or by tutoring, the machine can grant the knowledge to perform the move."

"Sweet Lucario! That will make things so much easier," replied Ash as he pumped his fist into the air and the memory viewers had their eyes widen in shock that a machine like that could even exist.

"Yes it will but there is a downside. The machine can only grant the knowledge to pokémon who can both learn the move and can handle the move. So if they aren't strong enough or experienced enough yet, the machine will be unable to pass the knowledge to them," informed Lucario.

"Even so Lucario, with this machine, teaching new techniques will be far easier. It'll make the process faster. Of course they would still have to practice using the moves to get a handle on it, make it stronger and easier to use but at least learning how to be able to use the move won't be much of an issue," remarked Ash and Lucario nodded.

"You're right Master. Who would've thought that it would only take two years to make the ultimate move teaching machine and it would be made by a pokémon none the less?" wondered Lucario out loud while Ash chuckled.

"Nobody would've thought that and nobody else could have done that. Only I have the intelligence and power to make such a thing."

Ash and Lucario turned to the psychic feline who said that that had just teleported to their side and scoffed at their friend who glared at them.

"Yea, yea whatever. You're the best Mewtwo," responded Ash sarcastically with a wave of his hand. He was about to continue his leg exercise when he was outlined by a purple outline and lifted into the air. "Put me back down Mewtwo or you will regret it."

The memory watchers gasped as they heard him threaten the powerful purple psychic but Mewtwo merely smirked.

"Is that so? Well then let's go. It's been a while," replied Mewtwo. Ash glared at the legendary.

"We'll go another round Mewtwo but when it's our day to train together. Today is working out and later on hand to hand training with Lucario. You know we stick to the schedule. Now put me down! AND GENTLY THIS TIME!" yelled Ash, making some of the viewers laugh.

Mewtwo chuckled while Lucario sighed. The purple feline lowered Ash to the ground and let him go when he was only a few inches above it. Ash landed without any problems and before you could say 'Pokémon Master', he launched an Aura Sphere at the psychic feline who lazily brought out a shield to block it. After the attack, Mewtwo scoffed.

"Did you really think I wouldn't be able to block that attack?" asked Mewtwo with disappointment on his face.

"No. But you're it and no powers," smiled Ash as he began backing away and Lucario started chuckling.

"Are you kidding me? We don't have time for this kind of nonsense. Why are you acting so childishly when we have so much-YOU'RE IT LUCARIO!" shouted Mewtwo after smacking Lucario upside the back of his head and levitated into the air to escape. "Have fun Ash!" taunted Mewtwo before teleporting away, knowing how Lucario gets in these types of games.

"Ah fuck…" muttered Ash as he saw the almost feral like grin form on Lucario's face. He slowly began to back away. "Now Lucario, I said he was it not you and…ah…"

"Too late Master. You should run. Oh and let's make this interesting." Ash titled his head but then his eyes widened when Lucario shouted out to the pokémon nearby. "COMRADES! WE'RE PLAYING TAG AND WE'RE ALL IT! FIRST ONE TO GET MASTER GETS A DAY OFF FROM TRAINING!"

"Ashy-boy better start running," laughed Gary as he and the others watched the horde of pokémon chase after their trainer. They watched Ash bring out his aura to run away from his pokémon and began laughing at his predicament.

"SHIT, SHIT, SHIT, SHIT, SHIT! I'M GONNA GET YOU BACK FOR THIS LUCARIO!" roared Ash as he ran out of the stadium and towards the nearby forest, attempting to lose his pokémon on his tail. "AND YOU TOO MEWTWO!" he shouted into the sky.

The memory faded away as they watched Ash dodge a couple tackles from his pokémon and another slowly formed while they laughed so hard that they were holding their stomachs.

MEMORY #27

Ash was standing with his arms crossed with Pikachu standing on his shoulder while Lucario, Gardevoir and Mewtwo were standing beside him. He put his hood down since it was a little hot. They were looking over a large ravine where there were hundreds of tall rock pillars, each about ten feet in diameter that rose up into the air about a hundred feet near each other. Ash turned to his group.

"I think it's perfect. What do you guys think?"

"Everyone will be able to train there, whether on top or in it," replied Mewtwo.

"Agreed. We should set up camp here for the night since it will be dark soon and start training at daybreak," advised Lucario and the agreed.

They watched the group in the memory set up camp, start a fire and Ash set to work preparing dinner for everyone. When finished, the raven haired trainer called his friends to him and they sat around the fire and each had a bowl of chicken soup while they conversed. Suddenly, Ash placed his half empty bowl down and stood up, his friends copying him as he did so. Ash, Lucario, Gardevoir, Pikachu and Mewtwo each stared into the nearby bush and took up battle stances.

"We know you're there! Show yourselves or we will attack!" warned Ash and they waited for a few seconds until three familiar figures came tumbling through the bushes.

"Damn, that hurt!" shouted a man.

"Which one of you is grabbing my ass?!" shrieked a woman.

"You landed on my tail!" cried a pokémon.

Ash and Pikachu glanced at each other before they both burst out laughing and fell to the floor, unable to keep standing. Lucario, Gardevoir and Mewtwo looked at them with curious looks and then at the three in front of them who were trying to untangle themselves from each other. When they heard the laughing, they stopped and instantly righted themselves. One was an athletic looking man who had short blue hair and was wearing black pants with a black shirt. The second one was a curvy woman with long red hair that seemed to defy gravity as it streaked down diagonally and she was wearing a black skirt and black mini blouse that hugged her chest tightly showing it off. The third was a small whitish beige cat pokémon that stood on its hind legs and had a gold charm on its forehead. Many of the viewers gasped as they saw who the tree were.

"What's so funny twerp?!" asked the red head as she scowled.

"Ah, Jessie, I don't think we should…" started the blue haired man.

"Stop being so timid James!" interrupted Meowth.

"A talking Meowth. Interesting," commented Mewtwo making Jessie, James and Meowth stare at the purple feline who chuckled at their stunned expressions and Ash glanced at his friend.

"Who would've thought it would only take two years and four months for you to fully change from a serious and brooding pokémon to a kinder one who finds things amusing now," grinned Ash and Mewtwo glared at him.

"Keep talking Ash and I'll have you bouncing through those rock pillars in a psychic ball and that will amuse me. You know what, I'm gonna do that now," replied Mewtwo with a smirk forming on him.

"I'll get out eventually buddy and then you'll be sorry," replied Ash and Mewtwo scoffed. He was about to reply back when the red headed woman interrupted them.

"Stop ignoring us!" shouted Jessie, fuming that they were not paying them any attention. The people watching the memory laughed at her outburst.

"Alright fine. What do you want? You know that Team Rocket is finished right? So what are you doing still following me? Speaking of which, how did you find me?" asked Ash.

"Well, we weren't really following you. Ever since you finished Team Rocket for good after the incident in with Landorus, we've been trying to find a new calling. But it's been hard with no money or any ideas so we've been traveling around trying to find something that ignites the spark in us. We somehow ended up here on this island off the coast of Johto," revealed James as he sunk his head.

"At least when we were chasing Pikachu or on a mission for Giovanni, we had a purpose. Now, we don't know what to do and frankly it's starting to be annoying," added Meowth.

"I see. Well, you could join us for dinner if you'd like. I just made some chicken soup and you're welcome to it," offered Ash.

Some of the viewers were surprised that he would do that while the ones who knew him better merely smiled a bit, knowing the type of person he is.

"Really? Even after all we did to you over the past years?" asked Jessie and James together in disbelief.

"Yea, it's alright. You guys were more annoying than being an actual threat. Plus no more Team Rocket means you guys can get away from that. Why did you guys join that awful group in the first place? I always had a feeling that you guys weren't like the other cold bastards in it," said Ash as he poured soup into three bowls and handed it to the three former Rockets who thanked him while his pokémon sat back down and continued eating.

"Well, Jessie was an orphan, James ran away from home and I was an outcast so we had nowhere else to go and no one took us in besides Team Rocket," answered Meowth.

Ash nodded solemnly and continued eating. The former Team Rocket members and Ash's group spoke together for a bit and when they finished eating, they exchanged stories well into the night.

"I think we should go to sleep. But before we do, I need to ask you guys a favor. Don't tell anyone that you've seen me, who I'm with, where I was, absolutely nothing okay? I'm in heavy training for about eight more months and I don't want anyone to know what I've been up to until I make my reappearance," requested Ash.

"You know, I was wondering why you were alone. You usually have a twerpette or two running around with you. Kicked them to the curb have you? Did they cheat on you or something? Find someone better? Looking for someone better?" asked Jessie with a sly smirk.

"No I haven't and they're not like that!" shouted Ash.

Everyone, both in the memory and those watching were stunned at his outburst and the four girls smiled at how he defended them even when they weren't together, were far apart and hadn't seen each other for so long.

"Okay, sorry, relax twerp," replied Jessie as she sweat dropped.

"I'm sorry too," said Ash with a sigh. "It's just…complicated. Anyway, do you agree?" he asked again and they promised to not say a word. "Good. As a thank you…" Ash went to his backpack and pulled out a small metal box. He opened it, took out something, then put the box back in his backpack and rejoined the group around the fire. "Here, use this to start new lives. It's not much, but it's some extra money that I don't really need. Start a business selling food, merchandise or something. You guys seem to do well with that until you blow it trying to catch Pikachu. Stay on the good side this time alright?" he said as he handed them a stack of money.

Jessie, James and Meowth looked at Ash with wide eyes before they slowly reached for the money. They took it, glanced at one another and then pinched each other's cheeks to see if they were dreaming or not. Ash and the pokémon laughed at their actions and so did the people watching the memory. When the trio realized that it wasn't a dream, they stared at Ash before they got up and hugged the raven haired trainer, crying and thanking him. They separated after a moment and promised to keep their mouths shut and that they will be good from then on. Ash smiled at them as they sat back down. He handed them three sleeping bags and bade them goodnight before heading into his tenth with Pikachu and Gardevoir. Lucario and Mewtwo moved towards the three, who glanced at the two coming.

"Do not taint this agreement," warned Lucario. "Master believes everyone deserves a second chance if they are willing to change. I however do not believe it in certain cases. Your auras do not seem to be marked with evil but even so…do not betray his trust and make me come after you."

"We will not. You have our word," replied the three together. Lucario and Mewtwo nodded.

"Why is he alone though?" asked James.

"We cannot tell you much, but he is on a journey to become stronger so he can protect those who he loves and cares about. He has gone through many trials, captured many powerful and rare pokémon and has traveled all over the six regions again. He is preparing to make his debut back into the world where he will take the competition by storm and prepare for what is coming," explained Lucario.

"What is coming and how strong is he now?" asked Jessie, curious.

"We are not sure of what is coming but it is a threat to the people he cares about," replied Mewtwo, taking over for Lucario who didn't know what to say. "Ash has reached a level far beyond many in the world. He still has a ways to go before he reveals himself. However, I would estimate that he is a little above the Elite Four's level by now. By the time he goes back, I believe he will be stronger than all the Champions combined. He may possibly be even stronger than the last Pokémon Master."

The trio and the people watching the memory had their jaws drop, unable to believe that he had become that strong in just a little over two years and would become even stronger. The trio recovered and were about to ask more questions when Ash's voice sounded out from the tent.

"Shut up! Let me go to sleep!" whined Ash.

"Pika pikachu!" yelled Pikachu as well.

Everyone laughed, both in the memory and the ones watching. The trio thanked Mewtwo and Lucario for giving them some information and promised them they will be good from now on and if they needed anything, to let them know. Mewtwo teleported himself to a large tree branch to sleep on and Lucario leaned against the log while sitting on the ground in front of the dying fire. As they all fell asleep, the memory faded away to form another one.

MEMORY #28

"SHIT, SHIT, SHIT, SHIT, SHIT!"

Ash was cursing up a storm as he hopped from the top of one of the rock pillars to another as he tried to avoid the powerful attacks that were sent against him. He glanced back at him and saw a wicked Thunderbolt chasing after him. His eyes widened and jumped from his spot at the last second onto another rock pillar as the powerful bolt of lightning exploded behind him when it hit the top of the pillar. Many impressed but also worried looks were on the viewers' faces as they watched.

Whose idea was it again to stay here for the past four months now? Oh yea, that was Lucario. Damn it, I really am going to have to get him back for all this.

Ash and his pokémon were training in the ravine they had found that had hundreds of rock pillars for months now. Mewtwo had once again set up a protective barrier around the island after the former Rocket trio left to keep everyone away. Each pillar was about ten feet in diameter that rose about a hundred feet into the air nearby one another on a small island off the coast of Johto. Most of his pokémon were training in groups in between the large rock pillars, on the rock pillars, around it or above it. Another elemental attack, an Ice Beam, was shot at Ash who jumped a little too early and ended up not reaching the next rock pillar.

"FUUCCCKKKK!" yelled out Ash as he began falling down towards the ground from about a hundred feet in the air.

Everyone screamed in fright and shock seeing him about to fall to his death but then they stopped as they saw what Ash did next. His eyes glowed blue and he manifested two aura swords from out of thin air, grabbed the two sharp weapons and stabbed them into the rocky pillar near him. His descent slowed down as the aura swords dug into its new home. Finally he stopped after about thirty feet of descent like that. He sighed and took a breather.

"NO TIME TO REST MASTER!"

Ash snapped his gaze to the right and saw Lucario jumping from one rocky pillar to the next as he climbed up to reach him. Ash sweat dropped before he lifted his legs and planted his feet against the rocky pillar. He bend his legs and then pushed off the pillar with a little bit of aura as he let go of the aura swords, which disappeared. He shot up some through the air towards the closest pillar as he readied another two aura swords to stab into the stone. He kept doing that until he reached the top of one of the rocky pillars and climbed onto it to be on the top of the pillar again.

"Damn, he's as athletic as some pokémon now," commented Brock and several people nodded with impressed gazes on what they saw him do just now.

"PIKA…CHUUUU!"

A powerful Thunderbolt was launched at Ash who brought up an Aura Shield at the last second. The connecting attack caused an explosion that also kicked up a bunch of dust around him. When the dust finally settled, they could see Ash looking at the pokémon who were surrounding him. His Charizard, Greninja, Sceptile, Garchomp, Lucario, Pikachu and Gardevoir were each on a separate pillar and each of them were readying an attack to launch at him.

"You should throw in the towel Master," advised Lucario as the blue sphere of energy in his paws began swirling faster and faster.

"You know me buddy. I can't pass up some fun," he replied cheekily as his eyes glowed a bright blue and his aura flared out. He took up a battle stance and eyed each of his attackers.

"Alright then since you asked for it. FIRE NOW!" ordered Lucario and each pokémon launched their attacks.

Charizard shot a Flamethrower.

Greninja fired an Ice Beam.

Sceptile threw an Energy Ball.

Garchomp fired a Dragon Pulse.

Lucario threw an Aura Sphere.

Pikachu launched a Thunderbolt.

Gardevoir fired a Moon Blast.

The seven powerful attacks were launched simultaneously and at the last second Ash brought out his Aura Shield again to block the attacks. A large explosion occurred that pushed his pokémon back a bit as the blast covered the area in smoke. The viewers and the pokémon waited a few seconds to see the smoke clear. Before the smoke fully cleared however, seven Aura Spheres were shot from within the smoke and struck each of the pokémon, causing seven smaller explosions to occur at once and brought up some more smoke. After a couple of minutes, all the smoke cleared finally and they saw the seven pokémon and Ash kneeling and panting for breath.

"Well…that was…fun," panted Ash and his pokémon chuckled in between taking in air.

"Nicely done Master," commented Lucario as he slowly stood back up. "I think you're ready to start learning how to use an Aura Beam."

Ash grinned but before any of them could say anything else, a purple feline appeared above them from out of nowhere.

"We have company," informed Mewtwo as he lowered himself next to Ash while still levitating in the air. Ash glanced at his friend who nodded toward the north side of the area. Ash and the seven pokémon around him looked in the indicated direction. They could see three large figures obscured by some fog on a nearby cliff. They were in the same area that they had set up camp the night before.

"Looks like we do. Send message to everyone Mewtwo and then teleport us to them," requested Ash as he stood up and Mewtwo nodded.

A moment later, they all teleported to the cliff and saw who their guests were after Mewtwo pushed away the fog with his psychic powers. Ash gasped as he looked up towards the three large pokémon in front of him. The trio of large pokémon was the Legendary Beasts of Johto; Entei, Raikou and Suicune! Ash stepped forward with Pikachu on his shoulder while all of his pokémon stood directly behind him, eyeing the legendary pokémon with respect but also caution as they didn't know the reason they were here. But they each were ready to fight and protect themselves and their trainer should they attack. Mewtwo and the three legendaries gave each other a curt nod of respect. He had purposely made it so only legendary pokémon would be able to pass through his barrier in case they needed to speak with them.

"Hey Entei, Raikou, Suicune; how have you been and what brings you three here?" asked Ash as he took a couple steps forward and then stopped in front of the three. Everyone couldn't believe that three legendary pokémon just showed themselves to him and that Ash was talking to the legendaries so casually as if they were long time friends.

"Hello Chosen One," replied back Raikou with telepathy.

"We are doing well and it looks like you're training is going well too," added Suicune.

"We are here because we have heard how you have been training hard for the coming days and we wanted to see for ourselves. Also, we have a bit of a proposition for you," explained Entei.

"I see. So what is this proposition?" asked Ash though he and many of his pokémon had an idea of what it could be.

"That we have come to join you in your mission but only if you can defeat each of us in a one on one battle with someone who belongs to our element," proposed Suicune.

"So that's where he met them and how he caught them," muttered Leaf with a small smile and a shake of her head and everyone let out 'ohs' as they figured it out too.

"Alright, if you guys really want to join and this is how you want it done then you guys got yourselves a deal. But let's make it a fair fight. I will tell you which of my pokémon will fight against you but allow us to rest for the rest of the day today as we just finished some heavy training and won't be able to fight at maximum strength yet. We can have our battles tomorrow morning. Sound good?" asked Ash.

The three legendaries nodded their heads with respect over how the young Aura Guardian was thinking about the well being of his pokémon. Even the people watching the memory smiled at what he just did. Many would have reacted and done something without thinking at the chance of catching a legendary but not Ash. He took his time and thought about his pokémon first.

"Awesome! Alright. Let's have some lunch while I think over who I'm going to have battle against you and I'll tell you once we finish eating."

Ash, his pokémon, Mewtwo, Entei, Raikou and Suicune gathered around the campsite and after Mewtwo teleported some food from their home with his psychic powers and Ash cooked some of it, they sat down to enjoy their meals. There were so many pokémon around that they ended up taking up the entire clearing and it still wasn't enough since they saw some of the pokémon in the trees or some of the smaller pokémon sitting or lying down on top of the larger pokémon.

"So many pokémon…he really does have an army with him," remarked Max and everyone nodded.

"Alright, I've chosen," stated Ash after finishing his meal and stood up. All eyes were on him as he faced the Johto legendaries. "You said a pokémon of your element on a one on one match with you. These three are just a few of some of my strongest and I believe you will find the challenge very entertaining."

The three legendaries nodded as their faces lit up a bit. As any other legendary, they were excited about the prospect of finding a worthy opponent who could stand up to their incredible power and go toe to toe with them. They were still pokémon after all and did enjoy a good battle every now and then.

"Entei, you will face one of my oldest pokémon who's always ready for a worthy opponent to test his strength against. He has gone toe to toe with several other legendary pokémon before. You will battle against Charizard."

Charizard roared as he stepped forward, spreading his mighty wings. He had a grin form after his roar. He always wanted a rematch against Entei since his defeat by him years ago. Now it was time for his revenge so to speak. Entei nodded his head in approval at the choice.

"Suicune, you will face one of my most cunning and versatile pokémon who is also very proper for some reason. You will battle against Greninja."

Greninja vanished from his spot and reappeared in front of the legendary water beast and gave his opponent a short bow in respect. Suicune nodded her approval of her opponent.

"Raikou, you will face one of my pokémon who has always gone the distance and who has always surprised everyone with his courage, power and never give in attitude. You will battle against my starter, Pikachu."

Pikachu jumped down onto the ground and gave a cheery wave at the electric legendary. Now, any other Pikachu and Raikou would have scoffed. Hell, even if it were a Raichu he would still scoff a bit. But no, he wouldn't disrespect this particular electric mouse. He, along with almost all of the legendary pokémon, have heard the stories about this particular yellow mouse. This particular Pikachu had power that made Zekrom want to absorb it from him. This particular Pikachu had the strength to send Regice flying into a stadium wall with an Iron Tail. This particular Pikachu had the speed and endurance to run circles around other pokémon all day long. Yes, this particular Pikachu was a very worthy opponent indeed. Raikou grinned at his opponent and nodded his head in approval.

"Great! I hope you all are ready for your grand battle tomorrow and wish you all good luck," commented Ash.

The Legendary Beasts of Johto nodded and so did his three chosen Pokémon. They spent the rest of the day relaxing and resting while they talked and joked around with each other before they went to bed as soon as night fall. They woke up in the morning and had breakfast before getting ready for the battles and they soon decided to have them on the top of the rocky pillars.

Ash, the Johto trio, Mewtwo and all of his pokémon were floating a good distance away from the top of the rocky pillars in the air with purple outlines around them, thanks to Mewtwo's incredible powers. Like this they could see the battle perfectly and not get in the way or get in the cross fire. Mewtwo lowered Entei and Charizard onto two of the rocky pillars and as soon as they landed, the purple outlines around the two faded away. The two powerful fire types roared, signaling that they were ready and soon charged at each other as the memory faded and another formed.

MEMORY #29

Ash, Pikachu, Gardevoir, Mewtwo and Lucario were lying down on the roof of a large building, looking up at the stars with many other pokémon sleeping besides them on the roof and on the ground around the building.

"Man, that was lucky we weren't caught huh guys?" asked Ash.

"Why did we even go to the Battle Frontier again last week?" asked Lucario rhetorically.

"Supplies and to check on a certain legendary pokémon who called us to meet him there remember?" reminded Mewtwo and Lucario glared at him with a look that plainly said that he knows, making the psychic pokémon smirk.

"Who would've thought when invisible we could still be detected. Anabel's powers sure have grown stronger," remarked Ash.

"Anabel? Is that the name of the purple haired girl who looked in our direction even though Mewtwo had turned us invisible?" asked Lucario and Ash nodded, telling them that she is an empath and a psychic as well.

Lucario and Mewtwo exchanged impressed looks before the group went quiet and observed the stars. A few minutes passed by with the group commenting on the constellations that they found or what they thought made up something else. When they finally quieted down, Lucario broke the silence.

"It's finally been three years everyone. We will be making our return as soon as we get the invitation. Are you ready to go back Master?" asked Lucario as he glanced at Ash.

"Yes. It's been a while Lucario," answered Ash as he took out a photograph from his pocket and held it in front of his face. It was the group picture that Mewtwo had teleported from his house and he looked at it every night before going to sleep. The photo had some creases, the edges were starting to crumple and the colors had started fading a little but to Ash, it was still perfect. Tears escaped from his eyes that run down his cheek. Gardevoir looked sullen and stretched out her hand to his arm as she was lying next to him. Ash glanced at her and found her to have tears in her eyes over seeing him so sad.

"Hey, I'm alright Gardevoir. I just miss them so much. I hope they're doing fine. I want to see them so badly but I don't know if I can. I finally figured out why I kept messing up with the girls a couple months ago though and ever since I did, I stopped hearing that voice from inside my head. But they might hate me and might want nothing to do with me after leaving them for so long," confessed Ash. The girls watching the memory were filled with sadness seeing him like that.

"I doubt that," remarked Mewtwo as he sat up, locking eyes with Ash who also sat up. "You are a very unique human Ash and you showed me that I was wrong and I've seen the light thanks to you. You are a very selfless person and there is nothing but goodness in your heart. Your friends will not have forgotten you and I'm sure they will be happy to see you again. Especially the girls you love so dearly. I have seen your memories and have seen how they are around you."

"That may be Mewtwo, but I don't know. Maybe I'll go in disguise at first as they might kill me on site because I disappeared for so long," chuckled Ash. They laughed a bit, knowing the situation.

"Whatever you decide Master, I will stand by your side and help you," promised Lucario and the others promised as well.

"Thanks guys." Ash looked at the photograph again, softly grazing his finger over the faces of Misty, May, Dawn and Serena. "I miss you so much," whispered Ash. The pokémon around him heard but said nothing. "I hope you four are happy and I'm so sorry about everything. If you've found someone, they better take care of you and if not…I might get a chance again with one of you if I'm lucky enough…"

The memory faded away and another formed as the four girls let out silent tears. Leaf, Anabel, Sarah and Cynthia were also saddened as to how much their crush had suffered and how he seemed to be so in love with the four girls, each thinking that their feelings might not ever get returned.

MEMORY #30

A bearded man was training in the forest near the Indigo Plateau Hotel with his Lucario and Gardevoir. They were talking about what's been happening recently, such as running into his old group of friends suddenly, sharing a room with them, how it's so hard to not reveal himself to them. They soon finished their training and began heading back towards the Indigo Hotel. They conversed with one another for a bit when suddenly he sensed something.

"Did you feel that Lucario? Gardevoir?" asked the man, the two pokémon nodding at his question. "We gotta move now!"

The three of them ran closer to the hotel and Ash was able to sense what was going on as he ran to the edge of the forest and saw the hotel doors.

"They're angry and scared and…..oh no, it's Misty! Gardevoir teleport to her side now!" commanded Ash.

Gardevoir vanished as Ash and Lucario entered the hotel soon after, enraged. They saw a man with his hand raised and stretched out towards Misty, who was on the floor trembling in fear and a Scyther had Gary pinned against a wall. Gardevoir was blocking the man from reaching the red head. The memory viewers gasped at the horrible scene in front of them.

"Don't you dare touch her!" yelled out Ash.

"NOW WHAT?!" screamed a man as he whirled around and Ash saw who it was.

Misty remembered the altercation and felt everything that she experienced during that time as she watched the memory. She shivered as she continued watching, her sister Daisy noticing it and hugged her, though it didn't help much but what she heard next made her relax again with a smile.

I'm here Misty. I won't let anything happen to you, thought memory Ash.

They watched him and Lucario overpower Scyther and Tracey before throwing him towards the door and watched him run away. They watched Ash try to comfort Misty who ended up shouting at him some things about how would he know what Ash wanted and that he didn't give a damn, not knowing the bearded man was really Ash since he was in disguise. Then they saw Ash reveal himself and saw the four girls tackled him in a group hug and the five were crying and Ash was apologizing to them. When they stood back up, the four girls delivered eight hard slaps against his right cheek, one after the other, making him stumble.

"Mew, that stings!" cried out Ash.

The people watching the memory winced at the sight of Ash getting slapped hard several times in a row but the four girls were grinning and so were their parents and sisters. Cynthia thought that that was a little much but at least he took it like a man unlike a certain Champion of Kanto who couldn't deal with one. They focused on the memory in time to hear Ash say that he deserved that and the girls agreed.

"I'm sorry guys for not revealing myself to you and for being gone for so long." Ash hung his head, looking at the floor. "Will you forgive me or are you too angry at me?"

"Of course we're angry!" shot Misty. "But we're also happy to have you here with us again," finished the red head softly.

"Is that true guys?" asked Ash as he looked up. As he looked at each person in the group, they nodded. Ash's eyes began to water. "I'm so sorry for everything."

"Hey, it's fine, it's in the past. No need to worry," replied Dawn softly as she hugged him again.

"Just make sure you never do something like that to us again." added May as she hugged him too.

"Otherwise you'll get more than just slaps to the face," threatened Serena as she joined them as well.

Everybody joined in on the hug, with Ash in the middle apologizing and having a few tears run down his cheeks, trying to pull himself back together. He felt happier than he had ever felt in a long time.

That memory faded away and finally no more was shown after that one and the blue sphere faded away into nothing. The group of people was quiet as they were still in a bit of trance from seeing the memory. Finally, the Champion of Kanto broke the silence.

"I'm so sorry for doubting you Ash," said Lance as he slowly dropped his gaze from where the sphere was to look at Ash. But the thing was that he wasn't standing anymore.

When Anabel, Sabrina and Gardevoir finished the process, they severed their connection with Ash and let go of him as they took a couple stumbling steps back as they were exhausted. Ash however, could no longer stand. Instead, he was on the floor, sitting on his legs and holding his head in his hands, shaking violently. Everyone was confused as to what happened but what Ash said made everyone become greatly concerned yet they didn't know what to do.

"Help…me…" whimpered Ash in barely a whisper.