"All right, that's enough!" Ash grabbed Scraggy just when he was about to head-butt Pidove for the second time. Scraggy retaliated by head-butting Ash's head, making Ash let go of him. "Ow, good thing he's still young, otherwise that could've hurt…" Ash pulled out his Pokédex.

Scraggy. The Shedding Pokémon. Scraggy is a Dark and Fighting Type Pokémon. Proud of its sturdy skull, it suddenly headbutts everything, but its weight makes it unstable, too.

Ash scratched the back of his head. "He's like the complete opposite of Donphan." Regardless, Ash wasn't unfamiliar with Scraggy's personality traits, having encountered hundreds of species. So once again, he grabbed Scraggy and when Scraggy was about to hit him, Ash countered with his own head-butt. "You've got a lot of energy huh? I know what'll get rid of all that energy."

Ash turned his head to Hilda who was chasing her Rufflet around the clearing before finally managing to grab him. She let out a sigh and pet his feathers. "You are really excitable, jeez!" Hilda laughed before realizing Ash was staring at her. "What's up Ash?"

"I was thinking we let these two battle. It will definitely help them calm down, don't you think?"

Hilda blinked before nodding. "Yeah, but Rufflet's a flying type. Won't you be at a disadvantage?"

Ash shook his head. "The point of this battle is to calm them down. Winning doesn't matter."

Besides…if one wins, then the other loses and that could affect their self-confidence.

Ash noticed that the two baby Pokémon were glaring at each other, sparks already flying.

This will also give me a chance to see how much Hilda's developed as a trainer.

After using the Poké Balls provided on the capsules to capture the baby Pokémon -after much struggle-the two trainers were standing across from one another in the clearing with all their Pokémon watching from the sides.

"Remember, Hilda. They're baby Pokémon, so don't expect too much!" Ash advised making Hilda puff her cheeks.

"I know that! Jeez, I've got two badges now! I'm practically your equal!" Hilda claimed, though knew that was far from the case.

Ash raised a brow but grinned nonetheless. "All right, my 'equal', show me what you got!"

Especially since this Scraggy is special.

"Rufflet, let's start with Leer!"

Ash laughed. "Give them a Leer of your own!" The two baby Pokémon's eyes sharpened as they leered at each other. The result was each baby Pokémon shivering. "Low Kick!" Pulling up his yellow skin around his legs that acted like pants, Scraggy ran towards Rufflet.

"Avoid it by flying!" Hilda called out and with a simple flap of his wings, Rufflet was in the air. Scraggy stopped his charge and stared at Rufflet in awe. "Peck, now!" Rufflet dived down with his small beak glowing. Scraggy didn't need to be told to run as he started fleeing from the incoming Rufflet.

Ash would have told Scraggy to do a backflip and strike Rufflet's back, if Scraggy wasn't a newborn. "I didn't want to use this so soon," Ash sighed as he scratched his head before grinning. "Stop and use Ice Punch!"

"Huh?"

Hilda blinked as Scraggy skidded to a stop and turned around with his fist glowing blue before colliding his fist with Rufflet's beak. The moves that were super effective on one another were evenly matched, both Pokémon pushed with all their strength to overpower the other.

Even though Ice Punch was a more powerful move, it seemed Rufflet had slightly more strength than Scraggy and was able to deliver a final push that caused Scraggy to be sent flying back. "Scraggy, are you all right?" Ash asked, in which Scraggy got back up with gusto and looked more determined than ever. Ash grinned before looking back at Rufflet who shook his head to get rid of the icy remnants left by the Ice Punch. Even though Rufflet overpowered Scraggy, it seemed Scraggy had better defense as Rufflet took equal damage as Scraggy. "Jump!"

Scraggy blinked before giving a small hop, making Ash nod as he began thinking about where Scraggy should improve when they begin training. Hilda however wasn't wasting time unlike Ash. "Peck again!"

When Rufflet was about to make contact with Scraggy, Ash gave his command "Ice Punch!" Scraggy's fist glowed, ready to deliver a counterattack.

"Up in the air!" Rufflet immediately flew upwards into the air, making Scraggy miss and stumble. Rufflet did a somersault in the air and headed straight back down, hitting Scraggy directly in the chest and sending him flying once more.

This time, Ash was surprised. "Scraggy!" When Scraggy got back up, Ash turned to Hilda who gave him her own traditional grin. Ash was about to ask but Hilda cut him off.

"I saw that coming, Ash. Your counterattack I mean. You're also underestimating these two. Just 'cause they're young and…not as strong, doesn't mean they don't have spirit!"

Ash blinked and looked back at the two baby Pokémon, both staring at each other with determination. Ash was still surprised though. That he, the unpredictable trainer, was read.

Maybe it's because we've been travelling together…but still! I've always thought of obscure strategies. But she…just beat me. With such a simple manoeuver just because…Is that it? Have I let my experience get the better of me? Have I been underestimating everyone here?

Ash had thought he fought with everything he had this whole time. He knew he didn't hold back against Virizion. But the other trainers in the region, he wasn't too sure. "Whatever!" Ash shouted, startling Hilda and the Pokémon. "Scraggy, I'm going to put my faith in you, got it!? So charge!" Scraggy broke out into a run towards Rufflet.

"Eh? It's going to end the same way, but if you insist! Peck, Rufflet!" A repeat of the very beginning of the battle was about to play out again. Hilda quickly began scrutinizing the battle and Ash. She knew Ash had something up his sleeve. He wasn't going to let things repeat, so he was going to change something. Maybe instead of Ice Punch he'll use Headbutt or Leer.

Perhaps he's planning on using the environment to his advantage…but how? Scraggy isn't the fastest Pokémon.

Hilda continued to think of possibilities and counters but even though she was the one who said not to underestimate the baby Pokémon, it was a fact they didn't have much experience or moves to work with.

"Low Kick the ground!" Ash shouted when the two Pokémon closed in. Scraggy smashed his foot into the dirt. It wasn't a powerful kick, but it was enough for Ash's strategy which was to get dirt flying and hit Rufflet, pausing Rufflet's attack. "Ice Punch!" Ash did a punching motion that Scraggy unknowingly mimicked and sent Rufflet tumbling back.

Ash looked at the two panting baby Pokémon. He was confident that Scraggy will win now but Ash knew that it would be for the best if the battle ended in a draw. The loser of this battle would end up with serious damage to their confidence. They were newborns after all.

Hilda watched as Rufflet got back up and let out a breath she was holding the moment Rufflet was hit. She turned her gaze to Ash who had a smile as he returned the gaze, making Hilda grit her teeth.

He think he's won. Is he underestimating us again? I need to hit him with something that not even Ash Ketchum would expect.

"Rufflet. This is going to be difficult, and you're young...but I believe you can pull this off." Rufflet nodded his head immediately, his pride backing him up. If Rufflet's trainer-mother says it's difficult, all the more reason to do it. "Up in the air and dive using Peck!"

"Steel yourself, Scraggy! This is going to be interesting!" Ash worded his sentence like that because he was genuinely interested in where this was going. He could guess, in fact if he did he'd more than likely guess right, but that wouldn't be fun.

"Spin Rufflet!" Rufflet began spinning while using Peck and was soon spinning so fast you couldn't even see Rufflet's body as he charged straight at Scraggy, spinning with a glowing beak.

Rufflet made contact and there was a small explosion from the impact. The smoke cleared quickly and Hilda's eyes widened in surprise while Ash grinned. Scraggy had blocked Rufflet's attack by pulling up his elastic pants. The attack was still forceful enough to make Scraggy skid back, but otherwise Scraggy was able to reduce the damage.

If Ash could, he'd have ended it there claiming it was a draw but now he realizes both Pokémon have their young, baby prides on the line. Ash was now confident Hilda would be able to fight hard enough to make it end in a draw without Ash pulling some strings. "Hilda, Rufflet, you two better give this everything you got!"

Hilda took offense to that. "We've been serious this entire time! We plan on winning!"

Ash laughed. "Of course you were. I'm not holding back anymore! Leer!" Scraggy gave Rufflet a quick glare, making Rufflet step back. "Low Kick then Ice Punch!" Scraggy kicked Rufflet's feet making Rufflet fall over then was ready to punch Rufflet with his glowing fist.

"Toss a feather!" Similar to a ninja, Rufflet tossed a feather straight at Scraggy. It was nowhere near as sharp or blunt as one would expect but it was enough to make Scraggy stumble giving Rufflet enough time to fly back into the air. "Circle it!" Back down to ground level, Rufflet began flying in circles around Scraggy.

"Don't keep your eyes on it Scraggy! Just look straight ahead!" Scraggy did just as told and would shift his eyes left and right whenever he'd see a glimpse of Rufflet.

Hilda knew no matter which direction Rufflet attacked, Ash and Scraggy would counter. However at this point Rufflet would become exhausted so she had to act. "Peck now!"

Rufflet charged at Scraggy from behind but Ash was also quick. "Behind you! Headbutt!" Scraggy turned around and leaned his head back and as soon as Rufflet was in range, swung his head forward and delivered a serious blow. However the Rufflet was able to land his peck attack as well and as a result both Pokémon were sent flying in the directions of their opposing trainers.

Ash caught Rufflet and Hilda caught Scraggy, both Pokémon knocked out. Ash smiled as this was the best case scenario he was striving for. "Both Pokémon are unable to battle! It's a draw!" All of their Pokémon cheered at the 'intense' battle. Even though the attacks were lackluster and the power of the baby Pokémon were quite low, it was still an impressive battle for two baby Pokémon.

Hilda walked over to Ash who had walked over to his backpack to get the Potions. They swapped their Pokémon and initiated conversation. "I'd expect no less from the great Ash Ketchum, being able to even the playing fields with a disadvantage," Hilda teased.

Ash laughed. "I thought I'd have to make it end as a draw on my own. I'm glad you proved me wrong."

"Hm? Why would you do that?"

"If one of the baby Pokémon were to lose their debut battle in front of a crowd," Ash gestured to all their Pokémon. "That would hit their self-esteem pretty hard."

Hilda frowned. "That may be the case, but imagine if you forced a draw. Won't Scraggy feel betrayed? You would be orchestrating Scraggy's movements to get your desired outcome. I don't think that would have been good for your relationship."

Ash blinked. "Ah…You're-"

"Absolutely correct." Ash and Hilda whipped their heads in the direction of the voice. Ash was very surprised to see the green-haired boy, N.

"N…" Ash said before letting out a breath of relief. "I'm glad you're all right! After what happened on the cliff, I was worried the Scolipede attacked you."

N's expression changed to being neutral. "…Pokémon would never hurt me."

"Yet you'd hurt Pokémon." Ash and N turned to Hilda who was glaring at N.

N was taken aback at the accusation. "Me? I would never-"

"Explain her then!" Hilda all but shouted while pointing to her Purrloin.

Seeing the Purrloin who he fought with back at Accumula Town surprised N. "…I did not anticipate this. I did not mean any harm when we parted ways, dear Purrloin. And yet…you were captured by another trainer."

Ash decided to work on healing the baby Pokémon while silently listening to their conversation. Their Pokémon were all watching N, making sure he made no sudden moves so he wasn't too worried. Purrloin stood in place, shocked at seeing her former trainer not too long after they parted ways.

"You say that as if it's my fault," Hilda said, glaring at N. "Purrloin chose to come with me. She chose me as her new trainer. But no matter what, a Pokémon will never forget their original trainer! N! Answer me this! Why did you release Purrloin?" Hilda was furious, anyone could tell and Ash could only shiver and he wasn't the one under her heated glare.

N however didn't seem to flinch. "…I can fulfill that request. I release all Pokémon who fight for me. They are much happier in the hands of nature than humans. That is what I believe."

Ash recalled the battle atop the cliff. The Pokémon who fought for N were all wild and returned to the wild after the battle. Ash couldn't imagine living like that. "That's so…lonely," Ash whispered.

"You make it sound like every single Pokémon and human are the same. Don't act like that is the truth of the world or anything." Hilda knew she was inexperienced when it comes to the world. But she also knew that she cared for Pokémon, as well as Ash and the Gym Leaders. So N's statement had to be incorrect.

N sighed. "In the end, Pokémon are used by humans to accomplish their selfish goals. There's much more to this world than you know. I will always refuse to believe the voices of despicable humans."

"Then listen to the voices of our Pokémon," Ash suggested, gesturing to all of his and Hilda's Pokémon.

N only lowered his cap over his eyes as he listened to their voices. His expression didn't change but his mind was in turmoil. In all his travels he hadn't heard voices as happy as these Pokémon. He was so used to the voices of pain that these new voices were almost foreign to him.

This wasn't the first time either. In Accumula Town and the outskirts of Nacrene, Ash had shown him possibilities of a future he never even considered. Looking at Pikachu whose voice was the loudest and happiest, N couldn't help but feel somewhat doubtful. "Even if your Pokémon are happy, it is through experience that I know the majority of all Pokémon experience pain because of humans. Just because you two have Pokémon who love you doesn't mean that everyone is like that. Before you say not every human is a despicable creature, I can guarantee more humans treat Pokémon badly than good."

Hilda was about to say more but out of the corner of her eye she saw Ash shake his head and she simply grit her teeth. Ash knew that N's opinion wouldn't change. When two people disagree on something, sometimes words won't be enough. Ash learned that from his longstanding Sinnoh rival.

"N, let's for now agree to disagree. But, how about we test this theory of yours. We're going to Luxuria Town and going to check out the Battle Club. Why don't you come with us?" Hilda looked at Ash with an incredulous expression while N was slightly surprised by the proposition.

"…Interesting. Perhaps I'll be able to learn more about you. Do not let me hold you back from any training you need to do," N said, accepting Ash's invitation.

Ash grinned, knowing that while N may dislike Pokémon battles and trainers, he was still very skilled. And maybe his bonds will show N how Pokémon battles are a way to develop bonds. "Great! I'll start making lunch then! Pidove, Scraggy, with me!" Ash said before walking off to his bag with the two Pokémon, leaving Hilda, N, and the rest of their Pokémon.

There was an awkward silence and Hilda, who was petting Rufflet, couldn't help but glance at Ash every now and then, hoping he'd hurry up and finish lunch. "I don't think I got your name." The sudden statement made Hilda surprised as she saw N looking at her.

"Ah, I'm Hilda from Nuvema Town," simple and short Hilda kept it and N nodded.

"Are you a new trainer?" Hilda nodded and N closed his eyes. "I see."

Hilda raised a brow. "Are you underestimating me?"

N opened his eyes and shook his head before giving Hilda a small smile. "Not at all. I'm only fascinated by how you have so little experience yet have such a big heart towards Pokémon. It's truly marvelous." Hilda couldn't help but shiver at N's monotone voice, despite being praised.

Hilda sat down against a tree, watching Munna and her Gothita train their psychic powers while holding her new baby Pokémon in her arms. After a decent lunch filled with an awkward silence, Hilda just wanted to get away from N. Just looking at him made her blood boil. Especially since his words mirrored that of Team Plasma, who caused her Gothita to be released.

She looked to the side to see Ash's Oshawott approach her. He sat down next to her and Hilda decided to rub his head. "You done training with Buizel-sensei?" Hilda teased. Oshawott gave a sigh of exhaustion and collapsed on Hilda, nodding into her leg. Hilda looked up and saw her own Oshawott training with Buizel. Ash suggested Buizel to teach her Oshawott Water Pulse and right now…her Oshawott was failing spectacularly. But she was trying her hardest, and that's what's important.

Looking across the field, she could see Ash and N watching Pikachu and Scraggy. It appeared Scraggy considered Pikachu as an older brother and was listening to Pikachu intently, Ash adding a comment or two. Since they were far away, Hilda couldn't hear them but Hilda assumed they were talking about something involving with defense and counterattacking while trying to train up Scraggy.

Above her, in the rustling trees, was Purrloin and Pidove training. Purrloin training to land a hit on an airborne enemy and Pidove training to land a hit on a swift ground enemy. Hilda was going to have to ask Pidove to help train Rufflet soon.

"Now that I think about it…" Hilda looked down at Rufflet before digging into her bag and pulled out het Pokédex.

Rufflet. The Eaglet Pokémon. Rufflet is a Normal and Flying Type Pokémon. They will challenge anything, even strong opponents, without fear. Their frequent fights help them become stronger.

"Heehee, fierce, aren't you?" Hilda put away her Pokédex and ruffled Rufflet's head, making it squawk in content.

"So your Pokémon, together with you, train to become strong. But not for the purpose of defeating others, but for their own happiness."

Ash nodded without looking at N. Instead he was watching Pikachu merely sidestep out of Scraggy's Headbutt attack, trying to stimulate Scraggy's mind to think about more than just the opponent in front of him.

"I cannot say I'll ever understand that notion. Battles create happiness between Pokémon and trainer…" N shook his head and narrowed his eyes. "Capturing Pokémon to do battle, no other choice for them…"

"There are plenty of people who give their Pokémon a choice. Remember Accumula Town?"

N nodded, recalling when Ash's Oshawott stepped in to battle for him. And that was before Ash properly owned Oshawott. "That was a first for me, and I am well-travelled."

"So am I," Ash quickly added. "And I have seen plenty of people who mistreat Pokémon. But that doesn't excuse Team Plasma for forcing their beliefs upon people who already have a bond."

"Team Plasma…merely made people rethink their bond with Pokémon. And considering how many people released their Pokémon, it is clear the bond they shared wasn't strong."

Ash furrowed his brow, trying to think of a response but kept silent. Nothing would change this man's convictions, like he thought. "Well, I hope you see one day that your truth is wrong."

"…Or perhaps it is your truth, or rather, ideals, that is wrong."

"Nothing will change my beliefs."

"Then you know how I feel, in that regard."

Ash sighed as Scraggy was starting to anticipate Pikachu's movements and Head-butting where he assumed Pikachu was going to be after dodging.

"Your Scraggy is a newborn, correct?" Ash blinked when N asked the sudden question.

"Yep. Hatched earlier today."

N turned to face Ash. "Then please grant me a battle between your newborn and mine."

Ash blinked before narrowing his gaze. "Wait, you want to battle? Now that I think about it, you don't like battling and yet…"

N raised his hand to stop Ash. "I despise battling. However, in order to get people to listen to what we have to say, we must defeat them first."

"I think I get it…" Ash said before looking over at Scraggy. "Um, sure. Hey Scraggy? Want to have a proper battle?" Before they knew it, Scraggy was at Ash's feet nodding eagerly. With a smile Ash turned to N.

N nodded and walked back before tossing a Poké Ball onto the ground, and out appeared a small, white Pokémon. "Vanillite, let us battle this worthy opponent." Vanillite hovered in the air, nodding and stared down Scraggy.

Ash put his hands on his hips. "You can do this, Scraggy!"

"Let's begin." N lowered his cap and whispered. "Icicle Spear." The air around Vanillite froze and formed into spears that soon flew straight towards Scraggy.

Out of instinct, Scraggy pulled up his elastic pants, defending him from the spears that flew straight towards him directly, but he was still knocked over. "Low Kick!" Ash called out. Scraggy jumped back on his feet and rushed to the Vanillite.

Cap still lowered, N whispered the same attack. Vanillite once again summoned icicle spears that flew straight to Scraggy. Scraggy avoided one that was heading straight towards him but ended up running into another one, causing him to cry out in pain.

"He spread out his attack so no matter how or where Scraggy dodged, he would get hit." Ash muttered, nodding his head. "Again Scraggy!" Scraggy turned to Ash with his mouth hung open and eyes wide before seeing Ash's grin. The same grin that he wore when he turned the tables around in the battle against Rufflet. Scraggy ran forward, his foot glowing. Icicle spears quickly appeared again. "Break the ice with your kick!" Scraggy jumped in the air and shattered the oncoming spear with his leg. Landing again, as the other spears hit the ground around him, Scraggy resumed his rush and kicked Vanillite hard enough to send it flying.

"Water Pulse." It was quiet, but Ash could hear the slight panic in N's voice. Vanillite caught itself in the air a blast of water shot straight towards Scraggy.

"Your pants!" Ash quickly commanded. It was unnecessary for Scraggy was already pulling them up and managed to take the brunt of the attack. "We're not letting up, Scraggy!" Nodding, Scraggy raced towards the Vanillite and once in arms reach, bent his head as far back as he could.

"Water Pulse."

Before Scraggy could pull off the Headbutt, a sudden force of water hit Scraggy in the chest, sending him across the field, rolling across the dirt. It was a clear knockout.

Ash and Pikachu quickly raced over to Scraggy and Ash scooped him in his arms. "That was great Scraggy! You really were amazing. We'll get him next time." Scraggy nodded weakly before passing out. Ash sighed but smiled nonetheless. He looked over to N who had fed his partner with a Sitrus Berry. "Good battle, N."

"I…am not sure what that means." N mumbled before returning his Vanillite.

Ash walked over to where his bag was and began treating Scraggy. "So you've beaten me twice now? And I've beaten you once. Looks like I've got some training to do!"

N raised a brow. "You do not think the circumstances surrounding our battles were unfair?" Seeing Ash's confused expression, he continued. "Our first battle we both used wild Pokémon we weren't familiar enough with but our love for them allowed us to use them. The second time, I challenged you to a battle format you had little experience with. And now I've challenged you to a fight where you fought with a Pokémon born today."

Ash smiled sheepishly as he applied a potion to Scraggy. "You know, I probably would have complained and used those excuses. But when I think about everything I've been through, if you can't adapt no matter the situation, can you really be considered a Pokémon Master?"

"Pokémon…Master?"

"It's my goal. I…don't really know what it means anymore though. At first, I thought it meant catching every single Pokémon in the world. Then I thought it was about becoming the strongest trainer. Now, I have no idea."

"Pokémon Master…Does such a person exist?"

Ash shrugged, not even sure himself. Right now he just wanted to prove his training and experience meant something. "I haven't thought about it much," was all Ash said.

"Intriguing." N muttered before walking off.

"What do you want?" Hilda bluntly asked the approaching N.

"I am merely curious about those two Pokémon." N was gesturing towards the two training psychic types.

"Munna is Ash's and Gothita's mine."

"How did you find such rare Pokémon for having only started your journey?"

Hilda let out a scoff. "Team Plasma. Gothita's trainer…released her. And Munna…" Hilda shook her head. "How we met Munna sealed the deal that Team Plasma are in the wrong. I'm not going to say anymore because I don't want to think about it."

"Would you say they experienced pain?"

Hilda gave N a glare, however he didn't react. "Of course they did. To be separated from the trainer you trusted and loved for so long…To be hurt like that…"

"Do you see, then? How humans treat Pokémon?" N closed his eyes. "The suffering Pokémon endure because of humans. Liberation is the best course of action for Pokémon. It allows them to find what truly makes them happy."

"It was Team Plasma's fault…" Hilda gritted her teeth. If Ash didn't finish healing her Oshawott and his Buizel soon, she was pretty sure she was going to hit the green-haired boy.

"It was because of them that the Pokémon found true happiness. Or would you say they are not happy?"

"Of course they're happy! But all you're saying is the end justifies the means!"

N nodded. "Correct. While the parting may hurt, liberation will help both humans and Pokémon realize true happiness. That saying is the truth of the world, no matter how much you may deny it. Your Gothita is the perfect example." Hilda glanced over to Gothita, who was trying to levitate using her psychic powers. "Suffering from heartache at the loss of her partner, only to find someone with a bigger heart. Someone who will show her love like none other. That, is a different type of happiness than the one I envisioned. However, it does not change the fact she is still happy."

Hilda's mouth opened but no words came out.

"The end…justifies the means…?" Hilda muttered as N walked away. She looked back at Gothita before turning down to the sleeping Rufflet in her arms. She thought back to Accumula Town and the amount of people releasing their Pokémon. "Will those Pokémon really find happiness?"

Immediately flashbacks to Wellspring Cave filled her mind and she shook her head. "Nothing, nothing can justify that."

"That must be Luxuria Town," Ash said, pointing to the town in the distance before pausing. Next to the town was a bridge. An extremely large bridge. "Woah…"

Hilda stepped forward beside him, looking at the map in one of her hands while her other arm was holding onto her Rufflet. "Yep. Luxuria Town is a place for people who finished the walk across the Skyarrow Bridge."

Ash turned his head to her and gave her an incredulous look. "We have to walk across that!?"

N stepped forward as well, gazing at the town in front of him, letting the voices of Pokémon fill his ears. When he heard a painful cry, he looked in the direction of the bridge. "…I have something to take care of. I shall rejoin you at the Pokémon Restoration Facility."

"…Pokémon Restoration Facility?" Ash asked, furrowing his brow.

"Pokémon Center," Hilda quickly supplied before giving N a suspicious glance. "What do you have to take care of?"

N pulled his cap down. "If you cannot hear them, then there is no point in telling you. Goodbye." Quickly, he strode off down the hill.

"I don't trust him." Hilda quickly stated, even though N wasn't even out of view.

"He's got his own set of beliefs. Too bad he's on Team Plasma's side," Ash sighed. "He's a good trainer, kind, and smart."

"Maybe if he saw what we saw back in the cave…" Hilda shivered involuntary, making Ash give her a worried glance. She didn't notice and walked forward. "Well, we might as well check out the Battle Club, right?"

Ash's face lit up and he nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah!"

"Cheren's not here? Or Bianca?" Hilda frowned as she talked to the manager, Don George.

"Afraid not. I don't know no Cheren and a Bianca came and left after having two battles," Don George replied while showing Hilda a list of recent trainers.

"Oh, thank you," Hilda sighed as she made her way back to Ash who was struggling with the touch screen in front of him for searching for trainers. "Are you all right?"

"Yep, just fine." Contrary to his statement, Ash's brow was furrowed and he kept touching the wrong buttons, causing him to struggle to return to the previous screen.

"Okay, if you're fine, then I'll just go to my match," Hilda grinned and started to walk away before a sudden gloved-hand on her arm pulled her back.

"No, I need your help Hilda!" Hilda laughed and ignored the tingling sensation of his fingers on her arm. Now by his side, Hilda touched a few buttons and returned to the original screen.

"Okay, two badges. Any type preference?" Ash shook his head. "There…and there…there we go!"

Ash blinked. "…That's was fast."

Hilda rolled her eyes. "Of course it was. You're just not used it."

"How do you even know how to use it?"

"You don't grow up in Unova without a U-pad," Hilda exclaimed while Ash and Pikachu stared at her blankly, not understanding what she said. Sighing, she rectified her statement. "You don't grow up in Unova without a Xtransceiver."

Ash looked down at the device on his wrist. "Yeah, this is definitely really cool. Nothing like it back in Kanto, or even Sinnoh!" Poketch's were close but Xtransceivers allowed communication which was a huge step up.

"Hey, a guy named Trip seems to be at your level."

"Trip?" Ash tried to think of a reason for the very familiar sounding name. "Well, sure, I'll accept."

Hilda hit the accept button for Ash and to their surprise there was an immediate response. Hilda frowned. "Huh. He declined."

"Huh? Why?" Ash decided to look at the profile picture of the trainer before gasping. "That's the guy who was making fun of me back at Nacrene!"

"Oh, that's the guy you were telling me about. Want to leave a provocative message?" Hilda asked, already typing it out. "…too scared to fight someone from the boonies…done!"

"Wait, what did you do?"

Hilda shook her head with a grin. "Don't worry about it. Oh look! He's accepted. Boys…so predictable."

As they walked towards the battlefield, Ash slowly pieced together what Hilda did and sighed. "I hope nothing bad happens."

Hilda shrugged. "Didn't think you were the type to be afraid of a little trouble."

"I don't want to be kicked out for un-sportsmanship-like conduct!"

"…" Hilda stared at Ash with a neutral expression, not responding. "Anyways…I'll watch your battle. I'm curious about this Trip guy."

"It really is you." Turning around, the two saw a brunette with a digital camera approach them. "Let's get this over with." Trip strode over to his trainer box, leaving Ash and Hilda to stare after him.

"He seems really touchy," Hilda muttered before walking over to the spectator bench while Ash walked over to the other trainer box.

"We're recording this battle," Trip announced and began activating his Xtransceiver.

"…Uh…" Ash thankfully was able to recall what he learned from Nacrene and managed to get the Xtransceiver to work. Ash tossed a Poké Ball into the air. "Okay! Let's start! Pidove!"

With a quick aerial spin, Pidove landed on the ground surprisingly gracefully. Trip rolled his eyes and tossed his own Poké Ball. Out appeared a familiar bird that stood proudly. "His Tranquill," Ash mumbled, remembering the battle between Trip and Cheren.

"Let's get this over with. Air Cutter!" Flapping its wings, Tranquill boosted into the air before firing blades of wind towards Pidove.

It took no instruction for Pidove to also fly in the air, avoiding the attack with ease. Training with Purrloin helped Pidove's evasion greatly. "Give him your own Air Cutter!"

Blades of winds appeared again and were fired towards Tranquill. Like Pidove, Tranquill avoided the attack and was suddenly flying straight towards Pidove. "Aerial Ace." Glowing, Tranquill hit Pidove directly, sending Pidove crashing into the ground.

"Pidove!" Pidove managed to get back up, not too injured. Ash sighed in relief. Ash looked at the battlefield they were using. A typical rock battlefield covered in sand. Grinning, Ash adjusted his cap. "Let's get it out of the sky. Double Team then Aerial Ace!"

Suddenly, almost fifty Pidove filled the battle field, each one of them glowing and charging straight towards the sole Tranquill.

Before over fifty Tranquill appeared around the many Pidove. Trip shook his head. "You're not the only one with Double Team."

This time, Ash shook his head at Trip. "Maybe. But…" Trip's eyes widened when his Tranquill –the real one- cried out in pain. It was struck by Pidove. "Aerial Ace never misses its target!"

Tranquill fell to the ground, its clones disappearing and Pidove swept down, glowing once more. "Air Cutter!" Tranquill flapped its wings in Pidove's direction, sending a silver blade of wind towards the incoming bird. Pidove rose into the air and looped around, back on course. Tranquill fired more Air Cutters, each one Pidove managing to dodge and then Tranquill was struck in the chest by Pidove's Aerial Ace.

Tranquill collapsed on the ground, clearly unconscious. Trip couldn't help but let out a 'tch' as he recalled his Pokémon. Ash on the other hand smiled as he complimented Pidove.

Trip didn't say anything as he tossed another Poké ball. A grass-snake standing tall and proud appeared, its head held high. "Servine. We aren't losing this." In response, Servine nodded sharply before entering a battle stance.

"Pidove, Air Cutter!" Flying back into the air, Pidove fired blades of wind at a fast pace. Servine was quickly moving around the battlefield, avoiding each blade.

"Get it out of the sky." Servine jumped backwards and glowed green for a second before summoning a lot of leaves that started to swirl. Soon the leaves were spinning in a tornado that headed straight towards Pidove.

"Gust!" Pidove flapped her wings repeatedly but it did nothing to slow down the Leaf Tornado that hit Pidove directly, sending her into the ground.

"Cut." As soon as Pidove got up, above her was Servine's tail, which glowed white before slamming down on Pidove, knocking her out.

Ash returned Pidove and looked at the Poké Ball with a warm smile. "You did great." Placing the Poké Ball back on his belt, he sent out his next Pokémon.

"A Munna," Trip murmured before taking a picture of the floral-patterned Pokémon. "Leaf Tornado."

Not wasting anytime, Servine conjured another tornado of leaves that headed straight towards Munna. "Psybeam!" A ray of psychic energy was fired from Munna's mouth straight towards the tornado. It did nothing as the tornado continued and hit Munna directly. Ash looked up at the sky and was thankful for the transparent roof. "Moonlight!"

Munna's body glowed a brilliant white as her energy returned to her quickly. When her health was restored, Munna let out a cry that sounded similar to a battle cry. Ash grinned as Munna fired a Psybeam at the Servine.

Servine managed to avoid it by jumping to the side and conjured up another Leaf Tornado. "Munna, float above the tornado and fire into it!" Ash didn't know what to do, but that was the first thing that came to mind. Munna tried to do just that, but was unable to and was knocked away and landed on the ground.

"Leaf Tornado again." Trip said, not letting up as it seemed like Ash had no way of countering this attack.

Munna this time immediately hovered as high as she could into the air, much higher than the tornado and fired into the center. The tornado shook but didn't disperse like Ash hoped. Some leaves did fall out, making the tornado considerably less powerful though. "Straight to Servine!"

Munna floated down towards the grass snake as fast as she could, her head glowing a mystical pink colour and tried to give Servine a head-butt but missed as Servine dodged.

Servine's tail glowed and was about to hit Munna, who rolled away in time leaving a small crater in the ground where she just was.

As a reply to that, Munna fired another Psybeam which hit Servine in the chest making it skid backwards.

Servine glared at the pink Pokémon before beginning to conjure another tornado only to be interrupted when Munna head-butted it to make him fall over.

Servine leapt into the air and somersaulted before landing his tail on Munna's head, who responded by curling up to increase her defense. Munna managed to take minimal damage, only skidding slightly and Servine jumped back cautiously.

As soon as Munna uncurled herself she fired another ray at the snake, who once again dodged and was running towards her in which Munna responded with another Zen Headbutt. Servine staggered slightly and Munna followed up with another headbutt, leading Servine to fall over. Rising into the air, Munna fired a Psybeam at the defenseless grass-snake and an explosion occurred, dust rising covering the two Pokémon.

When the dust cleared, Servine flew into the air before landing on the ground, rolling a bit before stopping completely. Munna was panting hardly, leaves on her body. Servine had attempted to pull off a last-ditch attack but failed.

"All right, Munna!" Ash cheered and Munna mimicked Ash's cheer in her own way.

Trip stared in shock as his starter had fallen to a slow, Psychic-Type Pokémon. Silently, Trip returned his starter and gripped his next Poké Ball. He simply pressed the button on it and out appeared his blue ghost.

"Night Shade!" Munna blinked and suddenly her vision went black, before seeing an image that terrified her. Screaming in pain, Munna immediately charged in a random direction, crashing into a wall.

Hilda placed Rufflet down and ran over to Munna who crashed near her. Picking her up, it was clear Munna was unable to battle. "Is Munna all right?" Ash called out, his face wearing a clearly worried expression.

Hilda nodded, petting the small dream Pokémon. "She can't battle though."

Ash and Pikachu both let out a simultaneous breath of relief before realizing N was sitting next to Hilda. Turning back to Trip, he pointed a finger at him. "I choose you, Pikachu!" Pikachu ran onto the field from Ash's side and spread his legs into a proper battle stance, his cheeks sparking.

"Night Shade," Trip called out once again, banking on Pikachu being just as wimpy as that Munna. The same Munna that beat his Servine. Just thinking about that made Trip cringe.

Pikachu stopped moving, his mind clouded by images of a Groudon opening its mouth as it drew near. Pikachu screamed but stood firm before firing a Thunderbolt at the "Groudon". The Thunderbolt ended up hitting Frillish head on, and as quickly as the battle started it ended.

Ash rubbed the back of his head. "Scaring Pikachu only makes him go all out," Ash laughed as Pikachu regained his senses, looking around before seeing a knocked out Frillish with static around it. "That was a good battle though, Trip! …Trip?"

Trip recalled Frillish and immediately strode out of the club, an irritated expression on his face. "My third loss…" His new win-streak was broken again. By someone from the boonies.

N was running, ignoring the looks people were giving him as he ran past them at an almost inhuman level of speed and endurance. It wasn't long before he reached the massive bridge he saw with Ash and Hilda. More specifically, he was below the bridge by the support beams. He looked up in the sky where a few Ducklett were flying before landing next to him. In the water was a Swanna. Face first into the water that was coloured red.

"Where'd it go? I think it crashed near hear?"

N didn't turn around at the voices, and instead touched one of his Poké Balls, releasing a large, bipedal, fox-like Pokémon.

Screams were heard behind him but he paid them no mind. Instead, he reached over to the Swanna, touching it gently. His childlike part of his mind hoping that, like a happily ever after fairy tale, the Swanna would rise as beautiful as ever.

Tears flowed from his eyes and he made no effort to stop them. He could hear sirens nearing him, so he stood up. He turned to the person behind him, who gave him a nod, before picking up each of the people it knocked out. Blood stained their clothes and guns but N could care less. The person dragged them away from N to give him time.

N raised his Xtransceiver and pressed a button. "Ghetsis. A Pokémon has departed. We need to return it to Celestial Tower."

"The tower? Created by humans?" Ghetsis smirked, though N did not know why.

"…Just give this Pokémon a deserved farewell."

"Very well. Rood shall be sent to your coordinates posthaste."

N closed his eyes, letting his final tears trail down his cheeks. "Thank you." N turned off the Xtransceiver and looked back at where the men were. On the ground were Poké Balls, which N picked up and immediately released. The Pokémon that appeared were aggressive but N wasn't afraid. Even when the large ice-bear approached him menacingly and was about to swipe at him, it took N but a second to grab the hand and hold it in place. "I am not your enemy. I am your friend. You have been corrupted by evil. Allow me."

Slowly, N released the Beartic's hand and proceeded to crush each Poké Ball, effectively releasing the Pokémon. "You have been liberated."

The Pokémon were confused and N let them be and walked off, followed by the trio of Ducklett. His breathing was shaky, the image of the dead Swanna infested his mind.

"Humans did this," N growled. Turning to the Ducklett, he rid his scowl and grew a sad, but warm smile. "I can only offer my sincerest apologies, little ones." The trio of ducks cried and all three rushed into N's arms.

The person from earlier who dragged the bodies away returned, their expression sour, matching N's. "Thank you." The person nodded and N recalled them into its Poké Ball. Sighing he looked back into the distance towards the town. "I should return to Ash and Hilda. If they aren't at the Pokémon Restoration Facility, they will be at that Battle Facility." Looking back down at the three Ducklett who refused to leave his side, he once again cried.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Its 2018 now!

…Wait this seems familiar. Almost as if I did this last chapter…

Oh.

Damn.

Uh, my bad?

…

Anyways…

I feel like I don't deserve to ask for reviews because of the wait but I do want to know what people think of what's going on. I mean, not much happened but I think the end was pretty great, personally. And bouncing ideas around with people is always fun. Not to mention criticism helps. A lot.

So I suck at writing battles. What's new?

But even though I sucked hardcore, I actually really enjoyed writing this chapter. I mean, I was lucky and had half of it already written from like March but still.

I kinda stopped caring about Pokémon. Gen VII took it out of me. Even though I had a lot of fun with Sun and Moon and their "remakes", I still got tired from Pokémon. But suddenly my spirit was rekindled, for some reason. (No, I haven't watched I Choose You. And yes, I am looking forward to Detective Pikachu. Movie and games).

As much as I love Gen V, I will always be disappointed that Pokémon cruelty wasn't a thing despite it being hinted at. In BW it was so clear Team Plasma were the bad guys and you rarely sympathized with them. Even the anime had some serious Pokémon cruelty that was outside the villain team. But in the games, nope. Only the villainous team can be evil.

And I finally edited the infamous chapter of mine: Pikachu vs Tepig (Chapter 5). Though I didn't do much so you don't have to go back and read it. Just know Pikachu doesn't lose.

Won't reply to reviews from last chapter since they were from so, so, so, sooo long ago… But just this one in case people have similar questions.

Any reviews that aren't from guests I'll reply by PM since…well I don't want a repeat of what happened with the last chapter.

Michael:It is cool that Hilda has a Rufflet. I am kindof surprised that Ash and Hilda were not offered more than one egg each to be honest.

That would have been a bit too much, and people have already mentioned they have been getting too much Pokémon.

Will Roxie and Marlon make appearances as Gym leaders, it would be cool if the Unova League allowed trainers with 8-10 badges; since 10 badges are basically available.

They will be mentioned at the very least.

Given Black 2 and White 2, is it possible for Cheren and Bianca to get a outfit to their Black 2 and White 2 outfit? Can Hilda be given Rosa outfit from Black 2/White 2, since Rosa possible will not appear?

Something like that. And while Rosa will not appear, Hilda will not be given Rosa's outfit either. Mostly because I can't really see that.

Since Trip is in does that mean that Georgia, Cameron, Virgil and Stephan will appear too. Of Trip and Cameron, which one is closet to Hugh?

Probably. I'd like to see what I can do with Georgia, but without Iris I'm not too sure what she can be used for. I have some ideas though. Closest to Hugh? Cameron is nowhere near Hugh's level and Trip is more like Paul and Gary combined but worse. Hugh was interesting because he was all about revenge and is definitely an interesting rival. Wish he was expanded on a bit more in the games.

Try not to focus on BW2 for this story. I love BW2, but this is based on BW1.