Indigo Mall...

Chapter 46 - Indigo Mall...

The sun was beginning to rise as a large helicopter was nearing the Indigo Plateau. There was a beautiful blonde girl in it along with the pilot. She had a mission to complete and would get it done no matter what, just like she always did. She glanced towards the pilot next to him. He was quiet the whole trip. She wondered if it was because she intimidated him or because of what he found out about the red head since it was well known that he was obsessed with her. "So John was it?" she asked him. He nodded while keeping his gaze straight ahead. "How do you feel about Natasha being kicked out of the organization for failing our Boss and letting herself become raped like a whore?"

John grimaced before he turned his head to her and saw her looking at him carefully with a stoic expression. "I'm not going to lie to you of all people Domino. I'm saddened that she's not with us anymore and what happened to her. I wish it never happened but the organization comes first," he told her.

"I see. Well then, perhaps you might be able to get what you want then," she told him, satisfied with his answer. She could tell when others tried to lie to her. He tilted his head, asking her what she meant. "Well, we're going to find Natasha and tell her that the offer is still on the table since she was able to get into the guardian's group. If she gets us the information we want on him, she'll be welcomed back," revealed the blonde.

John was surprised over what she said. "Is that so?" he asked her. He never heard of Giovanni giving someone an extra chance besides the three bumbling idiots who somehow stayed on his good side even with all their fuck ups. But they haven't been in touch for a long time now. He wondered sometimes if Giovanni had finally decided to get rid of them.

"Yes. Giovanni told me this himself," she replied back. "She completes her mission and she'll be able to come back. And Giovanni will reward you for your assistance by giving you whatever you want," she lied without trouble. She went quiet for a few seconds, seeing her words enter his mind. "I daresay he'll even give you Natasha. That is, if you still want her since she's damaged goods now."

John faced forward and he thought about it a bit. He imaged her coming back, being with him and finally experiencing what he's been wanting from her for so long. "Doesn't matter to me. It's not like I want to marry her. I just want to have some fun. Alright. I'm in. What's the plan Domino?" The deadly blonde beauty grinned before explaining the plan. As soon as she finished, they looked at the remaining distance to go on their GPS. Feeling themselves becoming hungry, they decided to hit up the food court at the mall once they got there before starting their mission. Domino got up and dug into her duffel bag for her disguise.

A large beam of white energy shot through the air and exploded when it hit a very large boulder, bringing up a cloud of dust and smoke. When it cleared, in the boulder's place was a large crater. "Well done," praised a tall trainer to his large pokémon beside him who didn't react. The trainer was dressed in black jeans, white long sleeved tight shirt, black vest and had a cloak around him. "We are at full strength and ready to decimate our next round opponent." He looked up towards the dark sky that was slowly becoming lighter. "It will be glorious. We will show that there are trainers stronger than the Aura Guardian. He will be a worthy opponent, but we will triumph in the end. And then we'll decimate the trainer of legends as well. Then everyone will know that we are the strongest in the world!" He looked at his pokémon who gave him a look that said that he was with him till the end. The man tossed out a few other poke balls and his other pokémon appeared with loud roars that made smaller pokémon flee the nearby areas. "Morning training! But half speed! We are only warming up for our battle today against the Aura Guardian and then we'll go get some food." His pokémon agreed and started mock battles against one another.

In the Indigo Hotel, a raven haired man was still sleeping. He turned his head a moment later but remained asleep. His movement made one of the girls who was sleeping with him stir and wake up from it. The brunette from Pallet Town opened her eyes and looked up at him. Leaf smiled, seeing him peaceful and relaxed for once. He had gone through so much in his life and he had barely reached his twenties. She quietly sat up on his stomach and glanced at the two other girls with them. Her sisters Anabel and Sarah were snuggled up against his sides, with their heads resting against his shoulders. She returned her gaze back to Ash and saw his diagonal chest scar. She moved her gaze downwards until she reached the other scar on his stomach. Not the bullet scar but the stab scar. She moved her hand towards it and felt the ruined skin with her finger tips. Her smile faded away with her filling up with sadness. I can't see you get hurt because of me ever again. She placed her hand over it and lowered her head to his. She gave him a soft kiss on the lips before lying down fully on top of him again with her cheek against his chest. "I love you Ash," she said.

Leaf stayed awake in that position, listening to his heart beating calmly through his chest. She thought of what she could do for him or get for him. She wanted to pay him back for everything he had ever done for her in the past and here at the tournament. Not to be even or to not owe him anything. But because he deserved it. She wanted to make sure he was never saddened again. She wanted to be there for him always just like he's been there for her. She wanted to do everything she could for him. Sure she likes to play games with him and tease him among other things. But she also wanted to give him the world. She raised her gaze to his again in time to catch him mumble some incoherent words before quieting. She smiled again and rested her head against his chest once more. What can I do for you Ash? What will show you how much I care for you and would never hurt you ever again? She thought for a long time about that. Each thing she came up with just wasn't good enough. She thought she had to do something grand, something incredible for him. Leaf was so lost in thought that she didn't notice that her sisters had woken up already.

Anabel had woken up when Leaf had straddled Ash but kept her eyes closed. She enjoyed being in bed with her love so much that she just wanted to stay like that with him forever. She felt his arm wrapped around her and she felt so much emotion fill her. I'm so happy to be with you Ash. I've thought about you for so long. I cannot believe that we're finally together. And I cannot believe our special situation. Though I knew you were unique, I would've never guessed something like this happening. But, I have to admit that I'm alright and actually happy with it all. She took in a quiet breath, trying to calm her rapidly beating heart since she was feeling his body against hers.

She forced her mind to go onto another subject because she didn't want to keep thinking about her beloved or she wouldn't be able to control herself for much longer. Her mind landed onto her sisters and how each of them trusted her and cared about her too. She felt happy over that because she was an orphan and never really had anybody there for her. That is until Scott found her when she was a teenager. He was impressed over her abilities and took her in. He raised her like his own daughter and helped her in learning how to control her gifts and grow stronger. He introduced her to the Frontier Brains at the Battle Frontier. When she was ready and passed her test, he named her a Frontier Brain as well.

But she always still felt like she wasn't complete. Though she was friends with her fellow Brains, becoming best friends with Lucy and loved Scott like a father, she still felt like there was something missing. Like a piece of her that was lost. She hid it well for a long time until the day came when she met the one who was her other half. Instantly she knew that he was the one for her, even with all the little misunderstandings. Thinking about that made her almost laugh out loud but she kept it in. She remembered their first interactions together, their battle together and everything else between them.

Anabel thought about all that but then remembered how sullen she became when he left after becoming the Battle Frontier Champion. She was hoping he would take up Scott's offer and become a Brain himself so he would stay. But he wanted to travel some more and become stronger first before thinking about that. She respected and admired his goal, his dream but couldn't help but be saddened by it. And at the time, she couldn't help but also feel jealous over May and Misty being around him. She had seen the way the two girls looked at him and even sensed their emotions and feelings towards him. Anabel couldn't believe that now the two are her sisters and the three of them were sharing this incredible man between themselves. And with six other girls too. She continued thinking about all that while she continued to pretend to be asleep.

The third and final girl who was in bed with Leaf, Anabel and Ash had awakened when the brunette had said that she loves him out loud. Sarah was feeling completely safe and happy as she continued lying snuggled against her boyfriend. She had dreamed of finding such a special love and was hoping it would be with him when she saw him at the tournament. And it came true. Sure, she was sharing him with several other girls. However, for some reason, she didn't care about that at all. In fact, she was happy over that too because she would never be alone again. After all she's been through, all her losses, she had found something that filled the hole in her heart. She found the love of her life and a loving family in addition to it. I thank Arceus that I'm with you Ash and for my sisters. I can't believe that my dream came true. The blonde Johto native could never have imagined that she would have such an incredible man be hers. A man whose single touch could make her feel many things at once. From safety and comfort to love and excitement.

Thinking about that made her remember what happened yesterday. How he became so angry at his childhood friend for trying to make a move on her. She was moved by his words and actions. He didn't know her for long at all, barely a few weeks. Yet he was treating her like they had known each other for a long time and that she was just as important as the girls he had loved for years. He had fallen in love with her as she had hoped he would. And she knew that he would do anything for her. She only hoped that he understood that she would do the same for him. He is the only one for her since he was the reason why she was able to overcome so many bad things in her past. He didn't know just how much he had influenced her and inspired her in her life. As Sarah thought about it all, she came to a decision soon enough; she would tell him. She would tell him everything about herself when they had some time alone together.

As the three girls stayed in their positions on the bed while snuggled up against the raven haired guardian, they didn't notice that their love was starting to wake up. Ash kept his eyes closed though when he fully awakened, trying to remember the dream he just had. He was at the pyramid like temple once more with the golden mirrors. The shadowy figures closed in on him and the voice spoke to him again but he couldn't make out the words or the figures. He thought about it a bit more before dropping it for the time being and that's when he remembered he wasn't alone in bed. He opened his eyes and looked down at the three girls in bed with him. He watched his girlfriends for a few minutes without moving. He knew that they were awake, sensing it, but just wanted to relish in the moment with them.

He thought about how much he loves them and that he would do anything for them. Ash wondered where he can take each of them out to until movement made him focus onto the blonde. He felt his heart beat a little quicker, thinking about what she went through yesterday. Anger rose inside him but he quickly controlled it by taking in a quiet breath. I need to let that go. Gary got what was coming to him and he's not here anymore. I should think about what to do for Sarah instead. He thought about that for a bit but then stopped when the brunette moved. Leaf raised her head and placed her chin onto his chest. Green and brown eyes looked into one another before the two smiled. "Good morning Leaf."

"Good morning Ash. Did you sleep well?" she asked.

He nodded. "Of course. And what about you?"

"Pretty good. I have to admit that it is more comfortable to sleep on top of you than to sleep in a sleeping bag in the woods," revealed Leaf with a smirk. Her comment made Ash chuckle and her two sisters to let out involuntary laughs as well. "Ah, so you two are awake and eavesdropping huh? How rude!" remarked the brunette as she raised herself to a sitting position again.

Sarah and Anabel opened their eyes and lifted their heads a bit. "Sorry Leaf," said the two at once.

Leaf crossed her arms and turned her face to the side. "Not good enough." She looked at the her childhood friend from the corner of her eyes and gave him a look that only he knew what it meant. "You ought to be punished." Before the two could ask why, both of them started laughing out loud. Ash had started tickling Sarah and Anabel, slipping his hands over their sides. Leaf quickly joined in on it and soon enough, both girls were laughing so hard that they were becoming blue in the face. Seeing that happen, both stopped what they were doing and their victims slowly got their breath back.

"That was…cruel…" panted Anabel as she sat up. Sarah stayed lying down, taking in large gulps of air.

Leaf grinned at her. "Don't be so sensitive." Anabel narrowed her eyes at her. "Ooh, I'm scared!" mocked Leaf.

"That's it!" Anabel lunged forward and pushed Leaf backwards onto the bed and started tickling her back, making her laugh out loud. "How do you like it missy?!" Anabel turned to Sarah. "Don't you want some revenge too?" asked the Brain. Sarah shot up and began aiding Anabel.

"HAHAHAHA! ASHY! HAHAHAHA! HELP! PLEASE! HAHAHAHA!" Ash however didn't help and was just laughing at her. Seeing her not able to breathe properly anymore, Anabel and Sarah finally stopped and withdrew from her. Leaf slowly caught her breath and then sat back up. "ASH! What the hell?! I said 'please'!" she shot at him, peeved that he didn't help her.

Ash just shrugged his shoulders. "I thought you could get out of it," he replied with a grin. Leaf narrowed her eyes at him and crossed her arms over her chest while Sarah and Anabel laughed. Ash glanced at the clock and saw it said 8am. "That's early. At least we'll have a good amount of time to use for today."

"True. That gives us enough time to go out today. That's if you want to?" asked Sarah.

"Sure. Who wants to go first?" replied back Ash.

Anabel moved back to be beside him. "Well, we were thinking of doing things a bit differently this time. Either we can all go out at once together or just do like mini dates separately," said the Frontier Brain.

Ash thought about that and nodded. "Why not? Let's mix things up," he told them.

Sarah and Anabel beamed at him but Leaf scoffed. "See if I let you take me out after not helping me get out of torture!" shot the brunette, turning her gaze away from him.

Ash chuckled at that. "Is that right?" Leaf commented back that it is right without looking at him. "Really? Well, let's see if you won't let me do this." Ash sat up and grasped her shoulders, making her look at him before placing his lips onto hers. Leaf melted into it and uncrossed her arms before wrapping them around his neck and pushed him back down onto the bed. Sarah and Anabel just watched them go at it with smiles on their faces. Right before it was about to get even more heated, a beep was heard from his Poketch. Reluctantly, they slowed down and separated with groans. Leaf sat up, straddling him again and Ash looked at the message. His displeasure at being interrupted was replaced with interest. "Looks like my ninth round match is today at 5pm and it's against a trainer who goes by Dragon Master Drax."

"Dragon Master Drax?" repeated Sarah, tilting her head.

"Somebody thinks of themselves pretty highly," remarked Anabel with a chuckle.

Ash smiled. "Looks like it huh? I hope he's a challenge and his name isn't for nothing," he said.

"Well he is in the ninth round. He should be strong. Hopefully you'll get a good match," said Sarah.

"Hopefully. I'd like a challenge."

The three girls giggled. "We know you'll win," stated Anabel.

"But don't get cocky," added Leaf.

Ash grinned. "Yes ma'am," he said and Leaf let out a squeal. He had grabbed her cute ass and squeezed it, making Sarah and Anabel laugh out loud. But then both of them turned red, imagining him doing that to them.

"Ash!" She slapped his chest, giving him a mock glare. "You're being naughty. You should be punished."

"Really? I didn't do anything," he said, feigning innocence. "If you want to punish me, at least do it for something bad." Ash smacked her ass hard suddenly, making a sharp sound cut through the air, shocking Sarah and Anabel that he did that as Leaf let out a yelp.

Leaf gave him an astonished look over his action before glaring at him. "Oh it's on," she said dangerously. "You're toast!" She raised her hand to slap him and Ash covered up his face immediately. But Leaf was counting on that. She quickly shot her hands forward and began tickling Ash heavily, not letting him rest for even a second. "This is only the start Ash!" rubbed in Leaf over his laughing. While maintaining her torture, she glanced at Sarah and Anabel. "Help me punish him!" she said. Both Anabel and Sarah grinned and helped the brunette keep the raven haired man down.

Being tickle tortured once again, Ash was trying to resist but failed miserably. Leaf was still straddling him while Sarah and Anabel had sat on his hands, holding him down while tickling him under his armpits. He was laughing so much that his stomach was starting to hurt and he was running out of oxygen. Leaf was grinning from ear to ear, remembering their old days of their play fights when they were kids and how she would usually win like this. Sarah and Anabel were enjoying it as well, seeing how they were making their beloved squirm beneath them. Seeing him turn almost blue, the three eased up. That allowed Ash to get some much needed air back into his lungs. And to think of how to overcome them or he would stay under their mercy.

"Be grateful Ash we showed mercy since you have a match today," said Leaf with a smirk as he kept taking in gulps of air.

Sarah giggled before speaking up. "That's right and instead of going out today for our dates, we'll have you take us to the mall instead before your match."

He took in a couple deep breaths before responding. "Alright, we'll go to the mall today," agreed Ash without protest, surprising the three girls.

"Really?" asked Anabel and he nodded. "I'm surprised you said that."

"I did promise to take my girlfriends out to the mall," he replied.

Anabel smiled. "Yes you did." Seeing the rather let down look on his face, Anabel tried to cheer him up. "Don't worry, we'll have some fun."

Ash sighed, commenting that he knows they'll have fun but not him. "Don't be such a kill joy Ashy or we won't let you help us pick out new bathing suits," warned Sarah.

Ash grinned, replying back that he doesn't believe that. "Well, you better believe it buster! When we go shopping today, you will get us whatever we want and you won't get any sneak peeks because-AAHHHH!" Leaf was interrupted as Ash was able to somehow flip their positions. Now he was on top of the three girls. He was sitting on top of Leaf's lower body while holding down Sarah and Anabel with his hands on their stomachs. The girls were shocked, red faced and wide eyed, not believing what just happened.

"I'm sorry Leaf, but what were you saying again?" teased Ash. Not getting an answer from her, he glanced at Anabel and Sarah who were unable to react at all either. "So, you decided to help her huh? Well, now you need to be taught a lesson in aiding a troublemaker." Ash started tickling Sarah and Anabel, making the two burst out laughing. Leaf tried to stop Ash by tickling him back but he clamped his arms down against his sides and caught her hands with them, preventing her from aiding her sisters. "Looks like I win this time Leaf," he chuckled, seeing her struggle to get her hands free and the other two lost in their laughter, unable to gather enough strength or coordination to push his hands away.

"Ashy! No fair!" whined Leaf, unable to get her hands free.

"Pl-lease st-top!" begged Sarah.

"I-it h-hurts!" pleaded Anabel.

The two girls started crying out that they surrender and Ash accepted, stopping their tickling but kept his hands on their stomachs. The two were taking deep breaths. He locked eyes with his childhood crush. "Do you surrender?"

"Never!" answered Leaf with a defiant look on her face.

"Alright then," he said and started tickling the two again. Sarah and Anabel once again started laughing and the two were starting to get stomach aches. "You can save them you know," taunted Ash, making Leaf glare at him. "All you gotta do is admit defeat," said Ash.

The brunette glanced at the blonde and purple haired girl on opposite sides of her and saw them laughing but also giving her pleading looks as they slowly turned blue in the face. She looked back at Ash and saw the grin on his face. "Fine!"

"I'm sorry; I don't understand what you mean." Ash's grin grew larger at her angry look.

She scowled at him for a second. "I admit defeat! I surrender! Now stop tickling them!" shot Leaf.

"I accept your surrender." He stopped tickling Sarah and Anabel but kept his hands on their stomachs along with Leaf's hands trapped. The two girls were slowly trying to calm down. They were also heating up from feeling his touch.

"Aren't you forgetting something?" asked Leaf, pulling her hands a bit.

"You think I'm stupid enough to let your hands go free so you can get me?"

"Damn. Looks like you're not as slow as in the past," jabbed Leaf with a smirk.

Ash pouted. "Now that was mean Leaf. You must now face the consequences." He leaned in closer to her, making her heart beat wildly. He got closer to her face but then stopped a couple of inches away. He then moved towards Sarah and placed his lips onto hers.

"HEY!" shouted Leaf, angry that he would just play her like that. The two finished their kiss and then he went back to hovering over the brunette, leaving a happy blonde girl next to her. He smiled at Leaf before leaning in to her, making her fill up with excitement again. But once again, he moved away but this time to Anabel and kissed her. "YOU'RE SUCH A JERK!" cried Leaf. Once finished with their kiss, Ash went back to Leaf, now leaving a happy purple haired girl on the other side of the brunette.

"I did say you would have to face the consequences," reminded Ash with a smirk.

"That's just being cruel," said Leaf quietly. Ash leaned in closer to finally give her the kiss but right before he was able to, she turned her face to the side, denying him. He kept going though and pecked her cheek. He then lowered his head a bit and kissed her neck, making her quiver from it and become turned on. "Oh… Ashy…no fair…" she moaned, making her two sisters have their hearts beat faster. She turned her gaze back to his and he raised his head. "Kiss me!" she demanded and he obliged, leaning in closer and letting go of her hands. The two kissed passionately with Leaf becoming both heated from their actions and being embarrassed that she was being so turned on in front of her sisters who were watching. But she couldn't let them know that. Sarah and Anabel watched the heated moment between the two. They were mesmerized, unable to move away or make a sound while their hearts beat faster. Ash and Leaf separated, green and brown eyes losing themselves in one another. "I forgive you. But don't think you can get away with that again Ashy or you will face the consequences," she promised.

Ash grinned his trademark goofy smile in return. "Maybe I'll do it again just to see what kind of punishment you have in mind." Leaf glared at him but then smirked back. He glanced at Sarah and Anabel, making their hearts skip a beat. "Don't think I forgot about you two now." And with that he gave a heated kiss to Anabel, moving on top of her, making her become so hot. Their hands went wild all over them. Leaf watched the two go at it with a smile but also wondered if that's how she looked when kissing Ash. After another moment or two, they separated and Ash went to the blonde haired girl.

Before he could say anything, Sarah surprised him by pushing him backwards and went on top of him as she kissed him furiously. She had been waiting impatiently for her turn. Both Anabel and Leaf watched her go at it with amazed faces, seeing her so in control. She was running her hands through his hair and massaging his body while he did the same to her. When they finally separated after a while, they were out of breath. Sarah glanced at her two sisters. "Sorry."

"Don't be," said the two at once together. They glanced at one another and then giggled, making Ash and Sarah chuckle.

After the four calmed down, Sarah got off of Ash, allowing him to sit up. "Hey, since it's early, I think we should train a bit after breakfast. Then we'll hit up the mall before my match." The girls agreed to that and got out of bed and so did he. The three left to go get changed and wash up for breakfast and Ash did the same before leaving his bedroom.

In one of the other rooms, two blunettes were wide awake and dressed. They were talking to one another about what happened yesterday. "Do you think Ash will be alright?" asked Lizabeth.

Shauna shrugged. "I don't know. But I think he will be. I hope." The two sighed and shook their heads. "Hey, about what we talked about last night, do you think we should confront the other girls?"

Lizabeth was quiet for a moment before replying back. "I don't know." Shauna gave her an annoyed look before saying she does know. "What if they don't? We'd be revealing our secret that we both love Ash to them."

Shauna sat down on her bed. "I doubt that. I mean, didn't they do what we did? Jumping into the field to help him?" Lizabeth nodded her head and after, plopped onto the bed and let out a sigh. "Even though Ash has nine girlfriends…whoa." Shauna stopped talking and Lizabeth raised her head to look at her. "I just realized he has nine girlfriends." Both blunettes let out groans as it hit them hard now, realizing it would be very difficult for things to go the way they wished for. Shauna took in a deep breath before continuing. "We still need to give it a shot. We can't just give up or just sit on the sidelines and do nothing. Lizabeth..." Her best friend sat up and looked at her, understanding the important tone of voice. "Lizabeth, I love him. I don't know if I can go on anymore without telling him. I don't know what to do," revealed Shauna.

Lizabeth was surprised at Shauna's admittance. Usually the fighter would have some idea but she was completely lost right now. "I'm feeling the same way Shauna. We'll tell him." Her best friend asked when. "The first chance we get we'll confess to him. No ifs, ands or buts." The two agreed on it and right after they heard a knock on the door, making them go quiet. Johanna's voice was heard from the other side telling them to get ready for breakfast. The blunettes thanked her and got up to go have their morning meals.

In another room, a red haired girl was lying in her bed and staring at the ceiling. She had woken up abruptly a little earlier after seeing a worrying dream. When she tried to recall the events, it kept coming up blurry. She had a bad feeling that something was coming besides the ceremony attack and she couldn't shake it off. She wanted her hero to be with her now, feeling scared and vulnerable. She wanted to leave her room and go to him but didn't know which room his was in and didn't want to run into the others. And she also wanted to tell him what Giovanni was planning. Ash…where are you? I have to tell you. And…I need you… No sooner did she finish thinking that when her doorknob turned. She snapped her gaze to it, fear filling her since she didn't know who it could be.

The door opened and the raven haired guardian walked in. Though breakfast was ready, he wanted to check on Natasha first. And he also wanted to see if she would like to have breakfast with them. The second she saw him, the fear inside her vanished at once. She shot out of bed, went to him and embraced him, surprising the young man. "Hey, what's wrong?" asked Ash after reciprocating the hug, feeling her shivering. I…I just…I was feeling… She sighed, unable to finish. But she was feeling herself calming down and feeling safe once more. Ash rubbed her back tenderly. "I get it. No need to worry." She looked up at him and he gave her a half smile. She lowered her gaze back down, rested her cheek against his chest and tightened her hug on him. I'm sorry. I didn't sleep well. And I just had a bad feeling and couldn't shake it off. I'm sorry for being so scared. "That's nothing to be sorry about Natasha. It's okay."

The two stayed like that for a moment before she withdrew from him and looked him in the eyes. Thank you. He nodded at her. "You're welcome." Natasha felt her heart beat skip a beat over his words. Sure it was nothing more than gratitude, but somehow, when it came from him, it seemed to be much more than that. Ash…there's something I need to tell you. "Okay. What's up?" he asked her. She took in a breath. What I'm about to tell you is something about myself. He nodded at her with a small smile, trying to give her courage to continue. He was glad that she opening up to him. Seeing his smile, Natasha felt both elated and nervous. She didn't ever want him to be angry with her and seeing the way he was looking at her, she never wanted that to change. But she had to tell him. After all he did for her, she had to. She mustered up whatever courage left in her. Ash, I appreciate everything you've done for me. I really do. But I have to admit that when I first came here, it was for…

There was sudden knocking on her room door before someone spoke, cutting Natasha off. "Hey, food's getting cold! Hurry up and come eat before May doesn't leave you any!" warned Delia.

"Alright, thanks!" called out Ash towards the door. Getting no response back, he faced the red head while chuckling a bit. "Sorry Natasha. What were you saying? You first came here for?" The red head took in another breath. I came here for…I'm here for… She stopped, unable to continue. Being interrupted made her lose her nerve. She let out a sigh and hung her head, ashamed that she couldn't continue. Ash sensed her emotions going haywire and had a feeling that what she wanted to say was very important but wouldn't force it out of her. He closed the distance between the two and placed a hand on her shoulder, making her look back up at him slightly. "It's okay. You'll just tell me later when you're ready." Natasha looked at him for a couple seconds before nodding. He nodded back at her and removed his hand. That action made her miss his touch but didn't show any expression over it. "By the way, like you heard, we're about to have some breakfast. Would you like to come join us?"

She felt her heart beat a little faster, feeling anxious about that. I…I don't know if I'm ready for that yet. I want to get out of the room…but I'm still…you know. "I understand and that's nothing for you to feel anything bad about it. But allow me to say that I know you can do it. I know you can overcome it and you can sit beside me, my Mom, May or between us. Remember, no one will hurt you here and I won't allow anything to happen to you." Natasha had her cheeks redden slightly over his words. She let a small smile form on her face. Thanks Ash for giving me the courage to take the next step. Ash smiled at her. "You're welcome Natasha. Now let's go join the others before they eat up all the food." She chuckled a bit at his joke. Okay. Just let me get changed out of my pajamas.

Natasha entered the attached bathroom with some clothes that Delia gave her. After several minutes, she stepped out of the bathroom fully dressed. She was wearing black sweat pants that were slightly big on her with a long sleeved shirt that was also slightly big on her. She didn't want her clothes to show off her body, not wanting to draw attention to herself. Her long red hair was left alone since it flowed down naturally, which also gave her a feeling of being covered. She walked over to her bedside dresser and picked up the notebook and pen that Delia gave her before. She then went to Ash who was now waiting by the door.

He was about to open the door when Natasha grasped his arm, making him look at her. Ash, even though I feel okay around your mother and May, I'm still only really comfortable with you. She went red admitting that to him but he kept his expression neutral. I asked Delia to tell Sabrina and Anabel to communicate with me through the notepad. Can you please remind them not to listen to my thoughts? I…I only want you to do that for now. The raven haired guardian agreed with that, telling her it's no problem and she thanked him for that. He opened the door and took a step out into the hallway. He glanced back at her and saw her not taking a step yet. He waited for her quietly and patiently, knowing she was trying to overcome her fear. The red head took a moment before taking a step towards him. Ash smiled at her, extending his hand to her and she took it with a small smile on her face as well. The two left her room to join the rest of the group in the dining room.

When Ash and Natasha, who was behind him as they walked, entered the dining room they saw everyone already eating and conversing with one another. Ash cleared his throat loudly, making everyone fix their attention onto him. They noticed his hand trailing behind him. Before anyone could ask what's going on, he spoke up. "Just wanted to let you guys know that we're having one more join us for breakfast. Please make her feel welcome." Taking that as her cue, Natasha took in a quick breath and stepped to the side, revealing herself to the group.

The moment she did, several things happened at once. The females in the group let out 'ohs' in understanding before smiling. However, after also noticing her beauty, several of them, young and old, become jealous of her looks. All the other males of the room however had their eyes widen and their jaws drop. They couldn't believe that this drop dead gorgeous girl in front of them was the one that Ash had saved from the clutches of the Skull Brothers. They couldn't stop ogling at her.

The red head saw the way the guys were looking at her. Natasha hid behind Ash again and grasped the top part of Ash's arm tightly. She had dressed simply for a reason but it seemed that even so she would still be getting attention. Sometimes she hated her looks and this was another one of those times. The way they were looking at her reminded her of the way the Skull Brothers did while violating her. She began shivering a bit in her spot from those awful memories. Ash understood her reaction to the group and so did the girls. Before he could even say anything however, most of the guys were hit hard in the guts by their girlfriends. Grace smacked Clemont upside the head and Caroline punched Norman in his chest. Each of the guys groaned with pain while doubled over in their chairs.

"Thank you," said Ash and the females nodded with some replying back that it was no problem. Ash glanced back at Natasha. "Don't worry, they're harmless." He waited for her to calm down and step out beside him again and she did. She looked at everyone, her hands still clutching his arm tightly. "Everyone, this is Natasha Dobrev. Natasha this is everyone. You know my mother, Delia, by now. Her full name is Delia Ketchum. And you remember May Maple right?" Delia and May waved at her with smiles and the red head acknowledged them with a nod. The raven haired guardian then introduced everyone there, one by one, with the indicated person waving and smiling or nodding their heads. Natasha was surprised to see some very famous, popular and powerful gym leaders and trainers there along with a champion no less. After the introductions and reintroducing Leaf and Joy to her, the two walked over to the dinner table. They sat down with Natasha sitting between May and Ash. "Oh and one more thing," stated Ash and the group looked at him. "She will be communicating with her notepad and pen." The group nodded without question, knowing the reason why. Delia had told them only of her voice being gone yesterday. They were saddened to hear that but also swore to keep their mouths shut about how she lost it. Both Sabrina and Anabel gave Ash looks of understanding when he caught their gaze. The two wouldn't listen to her thoughts or talk mentally with her. "Alright, let's dig in. I'm starving." Several let out chuckles as Ash's hunger took control.

They continued their meal normally afterwards. Though several of the guys would shoot split second glances at the red head. A couple of them got caught by their girlfriends and were elbowed hard because of it, angry over their behavior. Ash and May both offered Natasha some food from the table before taking a good helping for themselves. The new member of the group was astonished at how much her savior and his girlfriend could eat, seeing their plates overfilled. How could you eat so much? Ash faced her and just shrugged before continuing his demolishing of his food. She watched him go at it for a couple seconds before turning to May and saw her doing the same thing. The brunette felt like someone was staring at her. She turned her head towards the red head and went red before smiling sheepishly. Natasha let a small smile form before going back to her meal. She wasn't feeling threatened anymore but she was feeling a little overwhelmed from being around so many people all of a sudden. She stayed remarkably calm though, knowing that her savior was right next to her. As the red head ate, she took her time and listened in to the others' conversations while also looking around every so often. Luckily for the guys who would steal glances at her, she didn't catch them in the act.

A certain blonde girl was particularly quiet. Daisy was deep in thought as she slowly ate her food. Before Ash and Natasha joined them, she was thinking about how she had failed yesterday in protecting Ash. She didn't react to Gary's insults or attack. She was frozen still, just like the others, over what was happening. She had sworn to protect him and her sister Misty but she failed in her oath the day after. She felt crestfallen and didn't feel like talking much. She only gave short answers or barely commented back to others who were trying to speak with her like her sisters.

She stayed that way until she saw the red head. The second she saw her, she felt intense jealousy spike up within her. She couldn't believe how stunning Natasha looked. And the way she grabbed onto Ash's arm made her stomach churn. She didn't act on it though. She didn't want anyone to become suspicious about what she's feeling for the raven haired young man, especially Misty. Daisy let out a quiet sigh and returned to her food. A couple minutes later, she glanced around to try to get her mind off of her failure and about her feelings for Ash. Most of the group was busy with conversations going on around the table but the blonde gym leader noticed some things.

Daisy saw Shauna and Lizabeth speaking with one another quietly while also shooting quick looks at Ash. When they looked away from him, the two blunettes noticed the blonde girl staring at them. They quickly stopped what they were whispering about and went back to their meals. She thought that was odd but then shrugged it off. Turning her gaze away from them, Daisy then noticed Clair and Liza staying unnaturally silent but would glance towards Natasha. The two were giving the red head quick annoyed looks every now and then.

Feeling like complete shit because of Natasha's incredible looks and over her own problems, the caretaker of the valley let out a sigh. Liza happened to look towards the area where the oldest sensational sister was at. She saw the way Daisy was staring at her and her friend. She quickly looked away and nudged Clair with her foot, making the blunette shift her gaze to the green haired girl. She was about to ask what her deal was but then Liza gave her a look that she knew what it meant. Clair turned her gaze to her plate and so did Liza.

Daisy kept her sight on Liza and Clair for a little while longer, thinking what they did was also odd before looking away. She was almost about to go back to her meal when her eyes fell onto Giselle. She was slightly slumped in her chair, staring at her plate. Daisy was about to ask her what's wrong when the black haired girl raised her head and gave a quick look of longing towards the raven haired guardian. Turning her head, Giselle saw Daisy looking at her. That made her redden before quickly going back to her food.

Misty's oldest sister kept her sight on her for a little while longer. Afterwards, she looked at the other four once more, seeing them not moving their gaze from their plates as they ate. Daisy faced her own meal and began thinking a mile a minute. She thought about their behavior, their reactions and also of them helping out in the stadium. Her eyes widened suddenly. SHIT! They have feelings for Ash! She snapped her sight back onto the five girls. They were still not looking up from their food. The blonde girl couldn't believe it even though it made sense now. Why else would they act this way and do what they did? But it doesn't matter. I won't let them take Ash away from Misty! If they try something, they will learn that a Sensational Sister is much more than just a pretty face! Daisy stared intently at them for a bit as she gripped her fork tightly before going back to her own meal, trying to control her emotions.

As breakfast went on, several became full and were just relaxing in their seats. After speaking with Max for a while about wanting to train with their idol again, Bonnie turned towards the young guardian. "Hey Ash, got any plans for today? Are we going to train again?" asked Bonnie anxiously.

"A few yea and yes," replied Ash, making the rest quiet down to hear him better. "I was thinking after breakfast we train again. Same as last time. Afterwards, we'll relax a bit before I follow up on my promise and take the girls shopping. If you or anyone else wants to join, it's no problem," said Ash and some of the group glanced at one another before asking if they're going or would like to.

"So no matches today for you?" asked Max.

That question reminded him of his next battle. "Actually, I do have one today." Everyone quieted down at once, wanting to know who he was up against. Only three other trainers were left and they were each said to be strong. "What was his name again…oh that's right. The trainer I'm facing goes by the fearsome title of Dragon Master Drax," joked Ash, making a few others chuckle as well.

Their chuckling was stopped short by forks dropping and hitting plates. Everyone looked towards the reasons why and found Iris and Clair to be in shocked states with their eyes wide and their mouths slightly open. Cilan gave Iris a concerned look as did Sabrina, Cynthia and Liza to Clair. The two girls were looking at Ash and it was making him worried. "Did…did you say…Dragon Master Drax?" asked Clair in a whisper.

Ash titled his head. "Yea…why?"

Clair couldn't respond but Iris answered. "Drax was from my village and he was considered to be a prodigy dragon trainer!" That astonished everyone and Ash asked her how come she never mentioned him before. "Well, he's a couple years older than me and how was I supposed to know you'd be strong enough to face him one day in a tournament?!" shot Iris, making Ash huff. "Anyway, he's really strong and he's been considered to be even better than Lance was in his youth." Many had surprised expressions form on their faces at that bit of news. "He's traveled around like you did Ash and my elders have said that he's never been beaten," finished up Iris excitedly and most of the group couldn't believe that he was never beaten.

The green haired connoisseur gave his girlfriend a bewildered look. Cilan hadn't seen Iris become so worked up over another trainer for a long time. And learning that this Drax was from her village and considered to be a prodigy dragon trainer was cause for concern. He felt a little threatened, knowing how much his girlfriend loves dragon types and dragon trainers. And this particular trainer is considered to be stronger than the Champion Lance in his youth. Cilan turned his attention back towards Ash with a calm expression but inside his stomach twisted into knots.

Ash's expression of disbelief however turned into an anxious one with a grin. "Awesome! I can't wait to see how strong he is. Finally, a challenge!" Natasha gave him a curious look that he was excited to battle someone that was considered strong. Some also chuckled over his enthusiasm, glad that he was able to look forward to other things after the past few days' events. "But how come we haven't heard much about him?" he asked Iris

Before the purple haired girl could answer, a blunette did. "Because he doesn't like the spotlight." Ash turned his head towards Clair again. "And don't take him lightly Ash. Don't underestimate him," she advised him seriously, with her three closest friends keeping their gaze on her. Iris gave Clair a curious look but said nothing.

Seeing her in a non-joking state, he nodded. "I won't Clair." The blunette kept her gaze on him for a moment longer before turning her head back to her plate but didn't continue eating. Ash sensed some emotions spike up in her and wanted to ask what was wrong but before he could…

"This should be a great battle huh?" asked Max.

"I know you'll win!" encouraged Bonnie.

"Thanks guys for the support," he replied with a smile. He glanced at Clair again and saw her in the same state but didn't continue his initial desire to find out what's wrong. He decided to wait for some other time. "Alright guys, lets finish up breakfast and then it's time for some training. Meet me in the balcony when ready." The group agreed and soon enough, finished up their meals. They got up to get ready and Ash faced Natasha who looked at him. "What would you like to do?" She thought for a couple seconds. I'll watch. I have nothing else to do. He told her to wait for him in the living room while he changed. She didn't have wait long for him to come back and soon enough, both of them entered the balcony.

Ash set up a seat for Natasha off to the side and she thanked him for it. He had Mewtwo, Lucario and Gardevoir appear while he waited for the rest to come. He introduced Natasha to them and the three greeted the red head who was stunned at seeing the purple feline. "Yea, he's a Legendary psychic type. The brother of Mew," revealed Ash, making Natasha gasp. Ash chuckled and Mewtwo smacked him upside the head. "What the hell man?!" shot Ash while rubbing the area he was hit.

"You still owe me a full on battle session and you still have that one thing to do. Remember?" asked Mewtwo with a smirk. Ash replied back saying he still remembers it. "Good. Just making sure you do. Otherwise I'd be angry."

Ash rolled his eyes. "Whatever. Keep pushing me and you'll get more than an Aura Sphere to the face," warned Ash but Mewtwo just chuckled while taunting him to bring it on. Lucario just sighed, shaking his head and Gardevoir gave the two an amused look. She missed these interactions. The raven haired trainer turned towards Natasha. She had a stunned expression on her face, her eyes wide and mouth open. She couldn't believe how Ash acted with the Legendary and how the two were buddy-buddy. Almost like brothers. Ash quickly explained some things to Natasha and right when he finished up, the others joined them. He gave the red head a reassuring look before moving to be in front of them. She decided to remain quiet for the duration of the training so she can see if she can find out why her savior is so strong. "Alright everyone; we're going to start with the dummies again. Practice the strikes while Lucario and I walk around and check on you. After that, we'll let you know what's next." Mewtwo's eyes glowed blue and the purple dummies appeared once again after the balcony items disappeared and the pool was covered by a purple floor. The group spread out and each person went in front of their own dummies to practice the strikes they were shown before. Ash and Lucario began their observations of them training, walking through the group.

Mewtwo turned to Gardevoir who glanced back at him. "You should train as well. C'mon." The white and green fairy agreed and followed the purple feline towards the railings. Mewtwo used his Psychic attack on her so she can try to gain some resistance to it. They did that for a while before switching their roles, having her use her Psychic on him. She was barely able to affect him. But it was still helping her focus and raise her endurance in using the technique along with its power.

The aura canine commented on several people's training, giving out some advice and suggestions or otherwise approving with just a nod of his head. The aura guardian was doing the same but vocalizing his praise. After checking on most of his girlfriends, who he complimented and also gave advice to with them thanking him with some teasing and seductive actions, he moved over to his friends Brock, Lucy, Richie and Joy. He saw they had improved greatly. He praised them for their work but also give some additional pointers. They thanked him for it before continuing. He watched over them for a moment before continuing on to the other others.

Ash walked to where Clair, Liza, Sabrina and Cynthia were training at. As he drew closer to the four, he sensed that all of them had worried auras and were whispering to one another. Seeing him come towards them, the four girls quieted down and focused on their training instead. "Hey. Everything alright?" he asked them.

Cynthia nodded and Liza spoke up. "Yea, of course. Why wouldn't it be?" she asked him back while hitting the dummies groin with a smirk.

Ash raised his eyebrow. "What is it with you always smirking when you hit there?" he asked her. Liza went red and turned away from him, not replying back. He shook his head, chuckling and turned to the Saffron gym leader. "So what's really going on Sabrina?" He asked her because she wouldn't be able to lie to him. The other three's eyes widened and they started worrying that she wouldn't be able to hide it.

The dark haired psychic looked at him. "Training. What does it look like?" she asked him back and threw another strike at the dummy to signify that.

"Okay. I believe you." She smiled but didn't look at him. "Or I would've if you didn't just turn red right now." She went even redder and her friends sighed, hanging their heads since they almost got away with it. She really couldn't lie worth a damn. Especially to her beloved. "So what's going on?" The psychic turned to Clair and gave her an apologetic look.

"It's okay Sabrina," started Clair, taking over. "We were talking about Drax. About him and something that happened in my past that involved him. I'm just trying to not let it affect me and I don't want to talk about it. I will say again to keep your guard up around him though," revealed the dragon gym leader.

He saw the worried and fearful look in her eyes, understanding that something had happened between the two of them. He didn't push the subject but still wanted to help her. "Alright Clair. But if you need someone to talk to, I'm here for you along with your friends who are great people for having your back. Okay?" he told her and she thanked him before going back to her dummy. He watched the four practice some more with his gaze lingering on the sullen blunette longer than the other three. He wanted to know what could cause the confident, assertive, outspoken and tough dragon trainer to become so timid but he didn't want to push too much. He so badly wanted to hear her thoughts on the subject but wouldn't do that to her. He may accidently hear thoughts from time to time and would sometimes try to listen in on the six girls that he had suspicions on. However, he wouldn't take advantage when it's obvious that they don't want to talk about something.

Ash walked around the others, giving some tips to Max and Bonnie. The two young teenagers were competing against one another, trying to see who was doing the training better. Bonnie was really into the whole training. She wanted to get stronger and she also felt a little ashamed over her actions yesterday. When she saw what happened to Ilene, she just screamed like a scared little girl instead of taking action to help the Queen. She was lucky that others heard her scream. She didn't want that to happen again. And she didn't want others, especially Max, to think of her as a helpless little girl. Taking Ash's advice to heart, she quickly integrated them into her training. The young teenage boy in glasses saw the girl he likes putting her heart into the training. He became both impressed and motivated by her. Wow, Bonnie sure is giving it her all. And so will I! He increased his efforts to become better.

Ash watched the two for a couple minutes before praising them and moving away. He checked on Clemont and gave him some advice to put more power into his attack by using his body. Afterwards, he went up to Daisy Waterflower. He saw her doing well and was actually impressed. He remembered her needing some tips and looks like she took it to heart. Her technique, skill and power were getting better and better. "You're doing great Daisy. Nice job," he told her after her last strike.

Daisy stood up straight and faced him before smiling at him. She ignored the sudden happy feeling that sprang up inside her though. "Thanks. I wish I knew this stuff before. It would've come in handy."

Ash became angry, thinking who would dare hurt her and think they could get away with it. "Handy? Did someone try to hurt you?" he asked seriously, stepping closer to her.

She shook her head before sighing. "No, no one threatened me. And I'm okay right now Ash. I was just talking about in the past when I went out on some dates with some asshole guys. It's nothing and I'm fine so no need to worry," she told him, getting back into her fighting stance and faced her dummy to continue training.

"Hey." Daisy looked at him again. "Even so, I care about you. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. If you want to talk, need something, anything at all, just let me know okay?" he told her as he placed a hand onto her shoulder.

Daisy felt her body temperature shoot up all of a sudden but kept her face neutral. She had a lot of practice in keeping her face unreadable because of her many failed dates. "Thanks Ash and I will," she said.

He smiled at her. "Hey no sweat. We're gonna be an official family one day soon and you know I'll do anything for my family and friends. Keep it up," he said with a smile before patting her on the shoulder and left to check on the others.

We're gonna be a family one day? She repeated his words in her head as she watched him move away. Her mind went into overdrive, imagining the two of them together in a park. They were sitting on a wooden bench, snuggled together while watching their children run around on the playground. They glanced at one another, smiled and leaned in together to kiss. But right before they connected, Misty's betrayed expression showed up in her mind. She shook her head and went back to practicing on the dummy. I'm such an idiot. He didn't mean it like that. He meant when he and Misty married, which would make me his sister in law. I'm sorry Misty for even imagining that. I won't ever betray you. I need to stop thinking and feeling about him. She glanced around and found the five girls who she had suspicions about having feelings for Ash. I will not let you jeopardize Misty's happiness for your own either. She continued her training while her mind raced about everything she had come to learn.

Ash and Lucario, after checking on everyone, went to be in front of the group. A couple minutes later, and the alarm went off on his Poketch. "Alright, stop!" Everyone finished their last strike and looked at him, panting but not as tired as they were the first time. "Good job everyone! You've all improved. Now, before our run, we're going to add two more exercises. Pushups and sit ups." Everyone grumbled about that. "Well, its either that or you can train with Lucario and he has other plans." Complete silence at once. "I thought so. Alright, pushups first for five minutes. Do as many as you can the standard way." Without even asking, Mewtwo's eyes glowed blue and the purple dummies vanished. Ash took up a pushup position with his legs and feet together and his arms shoulder width apart. His gaze was on the group. "Standard position. C'mon." The group copied him and got ready. "Five minutes, as many as you can. Lucario will be checking on all of you while I do this with you. Ready? Go!" He lowered himself and went up in one swift motion, the others attempting to do the same.

Lucario walked around the rear of the group, checking on everyone, making sure they're doing it correctly. The aura canine helped out some, giving them pointers such as how to keep their back straight and not to lock their elbows. Ash monitored the front of the group, shouting out some encouragement, praise and some tips to whoever needed it. After five minutes, his alarm went off and he dismissed it, causing many to just collapse onto the floor, letting themselves go. "C'mon, stand up! I know you can do it!" encouraged Ash and watched them push themselves onto their feet. "That's it!" he praised them. "Everyone take a two minute break but don't sit down. We'll be doing sit ups for five minutes after." The group let out a collective sigh while Ash chuckled a bit.

After the two minute break, the raven haired guardian sat on the floor and bent his knees a little and placed his hands by the sides of his head, his side towards the group. Seeing him get ready, the group followed after him without being told to. "Alright, five minutes. As many as you can do. Remember, do it properly and don't worry about anyone else but you. Ready? Go!" He sat up and went back down quickly, doing the exercise with them. Once again, Lucario did the rounds, checking on everyone, making sure they were doing it correctly. Some suggestions said here and there, some praise and some encouragement to those who needed it and five minutes later, the alarm went off. Ash sprang to his feet using his hands to push him up off the floor. Most of the group slowly got up, panting heavily now except for a few like Clair, Shauna and Misty. "Nicely done everyone. Another two minute break and then we'll finish up today's training with the two mile run." As the others rested, Ash turned to Natasha, who had an amazed look on her face over their training. "We'll be back after our run. Okay?" Alright. I'll be in my room. Natasha left the balcony and headed back inside, making several of the guys watch her leave before getting elbowed hard again. As they groaned in pain, Ash shook his head. "Seriously guys?" he asked them, earning some glares from them but Ash just laughed. The two minutes went by way too fast for them because before they knew it, they were teleported to be in front of the woods once more with the purple path appearing in front of them. "Alright focus! I'll be joining you this time. Remember, do your best but heed your limits. Again, Mewtwo, Lucario and I will be sensing everyone so don't be worried. Ready? Go!" he said and led the way into the forest with everyone else following after him.

Ash maintained an even pace but still ended up getting further and further away from everyone as they continued with a only a few to keep up with him but were still behind. About a quarter of the way done with it, Mewtwo sent a mental message to him from Lucario; full speed now and no aura! Letting out a sigh, he increased his speed and shot forward like a bullet. He kept going faster and faster, leaving everyone behind.

"Damn, look at him go!" commented Shauna.

"I'll beat him in the water though," remarked Misty with confidence.

"That'll be a match to see," stated Cynthia.

"Hey, I'll race you all to the end," challenged Clair.

The four girls agreed and at the count of three they picked up their speed and started running as fast as they could to the finish line. Each of them wanted to finish first, for themselves and to show the raven haired guardian that they were fast too. When they finally reached the end, all four girls doubled over, with hands on their knees and panting heavily. Misty once again placed first. She grinned at the other three who sighed and shook their heads, not believing she won again. "I told you guys not to kill yourselves. I also did say Misty is faster and has higher endurance. Doesn't anyone ever listen to me?" The four girls looked up to see Ash casually leaning against a tree with one of his legs bent with that foot resting on the tree with his arms crossed. He looked like he didn't even run two miles at all, completely relaxed with no sweat stains at all.

Misty straightened out and walked over to him, having recovered sooner than the other three. "Easy for you to say Mr. Pokémon Master," remarked Misty, making Ash grin. She stopped in front of him and poked his chest with her index finger. "Since I won again, proving you right, you have to do something for me."

Ash raised his eyebrow. "Is that so?" The red head placed her hands on her hips and gave a glare, saying it is so. "Alright Mist. What do you want me to do?" he asked while chuckling.

Her glare turned into her radiant smile. She leaned in closer and whispered into his ear. "You'll find out soon enough," she said teasingly, making his heart beat skip a beat. She gave him a quick kiss on the lips before just standing beside him and leaning against his shoulder. The five of them waited for the rest, with Cynthia leaning on his other side and the two other girls just hanging around a bit away from them. Each of them were giving covert glances every now and then at Ash, Cynthia and Misty.

After some time, everyone arrived with no major complications. Though several were panting heavily and Ash went up to one. "Hey, how are you doing Sabrina? You okay?" he asked her, placing a hand on her mid back.

She looked up at him since she was leaning on her knees with her hands, taking big breaths. "Yea…just exhausted…" He commented back that he understood. When she straightened, she leaned against him for support since her legs were shaking. He wrapped an arm around her waist to help keep her up and turned to everyone while in the embrace.

"Alright good job everyone!" he told them. "All of you have improved greatly. That's it for today. We'll go home and relax for a bit. Also, we'll be leaving for the mall in about an hour. If anyone wants to join us, you're welcome to it." He turned to Mewtwo and the psychic feline's eyes glowed blue and they all teleported back to the balcony and so did its furnishings. Mewtwo, Lucario and Gardevoir teleported back to the island.