Sorry that it has been forever since the last update. I had university work piling up on me, so I had to focus on that.  Now, I hope you enjoy this chapter. Don't forget to vote if you enjoyed it and don't be afraid to comment on any suggestions. Enjoy!

Laying his red eyes onto the rainbow-coloured sea of Pokemon, Arceus announced, "Marvellous, isn't it? Having all these pokemon in one place, working together in unison," clearly proud of his dogged efforts through the sunny days or the stormy skies.

Finishing his berry, Ash looked up and saw the array of Pokemon planted in front of him. From the strong and fiery Infernape and Charizard clashing their heads to illustrate their power and brutality. To the more calm and cute Eevee or Emogla prancing around the grassy lands. It was crystal clear that all the pokemon living in dimension were overjoyed to be here. All enjoyed bathing in the pool of relaxation that Arceus calved from his very own strength.

Ash then answered, "To bring hundreds, thousands, Millions together like this is amazing. But for all of them to work together for one cause. Is even more astonishing. It must be difficult to care for them all."

"Of course. It was... tricky adjusting to this world. Especially with the baby pokemon. But that is why I am the God of Pokémon. I have the ability to control them all. Also, I did create them all. So I must control them all," Arceus explained.

Ash shot a huge grin back at God and looked out into the sea of different coloured and types of pokemon, his eyes glittered with awe. 

Shooting a thumbs up, Ash compliments "Well, you have done an awesome job Arecus,"  with a wild smile.

Arceus enjoyed the positivity emitting from Ash. But, deep down Arceus knew that in the boy's soul there was a sad, troubled boy hiding behind the ecstatic smile he presents. This suspicion was only confirmed by Lucario as he has also felt a slight pull of sadness from the boy's aura. Arceus then stared at Lucario, looking for any signs of advice. All he received from the aura Pokémon was a hesitant shrug of his shoulders. Not helping his position, Arecus annoyingly shook his head at the wolf-like pokemon.

With the raven-haired boy noticing this abrupt negative reaction, Ash inquired, "Everything fine?" while wiping some juices off with his sleeve.

"No. I need to ask you a question." Arceus abruptly annouced.

"Ok, What is it?" Ash curiously asked.

Before Arceus could answer, a bright white light appeared, illuminating the pair's vision. It was as bright as an Ampharos using its tail to illuminate the dark ocean on the darkest of nights.

***

Gliding through the gloomy skies, the God Pokemon gracefully glided towards the jungle concrete oasis, or what humans call buildings. Catching his interest like a fielder in baseball or cricket, out of the corner of its eye, the white horse-like pokemon noticed his trusty partner, Lucario, praying in front of his late friend's monument.

Landing a couple of meters away, Arceus noticed Lucario's face was contorted as if he had seen a ghost. After bowing Lucario started with awe at the monument as if some other being was there. When seeing no one was there Arceus used his aura to try to find this mysterious source. Emitting from the monument Arecus felt such a powerful yet calm source of blue energy. This energy also felt vaguely familiar. But a lot of things felt familiar to him due to the God pokemon living for millions of years. Yet this one felt different. It was like he knew the energy but was forgotten through the years of the God's life. When seeing Lucario finally snap out of his trance the God Pokemon waited for Lucario to notice his presence with his powerful aura abilities. But the aura Pokemon never did. Arceus knew something was up. So to grab his attention Arceus boomed, "Afternoon Lucario. Is everything fine? You seem a little out of sorts right now."

Using his Aura to sense who was talking to him, Lucario calmly replied, "Good evening sir. Sorry, I didn't notice you. I was a bit... preoccupied" while bowing slightly.

Acknowledging the formality, Arceus nodded, 'I'll ask him about it later'  Arceus thought. The God Pokemon then asked,  "How is the boy going?"

Being careful, Lucario hesitantly replied. "Er Good... Very good. He is learning quickly. Very quick. But that were some slight mishaps."

Intrigued Arceus slightly tilted his head and nodded, prompting the aura Pokemon to continue.

"Well... during the training, he received some major bruising on his abdomen... and face. More to the face region." while pointing towards his black and blue patterned face.

Confused at his partner's actions, Arceus asked, "How?"

"Er. He slipped," Lucario blurted, his hands quickly retreating behind his back.

Arceus eyes narrowed as he tilted his head. Sending a question look to the jackal like pokemon. "Yep... He stepped on a Goomy accidentally and then fell ungracefully into a pile of rocks... yeah. A very appalling sight to see," Lucario awkwardly announced.

Easily seeing through the lies like a blazing Infernape smashing rock, Arceus annoyingly rolled his eyes and then sent a mean Gengar Glare at the fighting Pokemon.

Letting out an audible sigh, Lucario quietly mumbled, "Fine I sort of accidentally, unwilling, and unexpectedly punched him."

With Lucario Sounding as quiet as a mouse Arecus responded, "What speak up you are as quiet as a Jigglypuff who has lost its voice."

"I punched him," Lucario finally admitted.

"See that all you had to sa- wait WHAT," Arceus yelled.

"Ahhh Bahhhh. Look. I know it sounds bad. But it's heavily.... extremely exaggerated. It was all for training. He learnt quickly... Thank Arceus."

Huffing, Arceus explained, "1. You don't need to sound like a Wooloo. 2. Don't use my name like that. I'm right here..."

"Sorry..." Lucario states while embarrassingly rubbing the back of his head.

After letting out a quiet sigh Arceus pressed, "And 3, why did you tell me that?"

Lucario immediate explained, "Well, due to the injuries he sustained, I asked him to take off his shirt so that I could heal them with my aura abilities."

"So? Were you attracted to his physique or something? Why are you telling me this?" Arceus asked in a teasing manner.

With his eyes narrowing the wolf like Pokémon threw his head back in disgust. "Urg. NO... But what I saw was a lot of bruises. Some of them look days old," Lucario disgustingly huffed

Hearing this the God pokemon's eyes immediately dilated with curiosity. Millions of thoughts started to sprint around the God's mind. After a moment of processing, the horse-like Pokemon questioned, "Old bruises... Do you know how it happened?"

"Well, all he said about it was his Stepdad," Lucario replied while nodding his head.

Leaving Arceus in a pondering state Lucario added, "He also told me that Giovanni is his stepfather."

The name alone made the God Pokemon eyes widen and forced the white horse to stagger back in shock. Composing himself Arceus calmly responded, "I will have to confront him about it then."

"Are you sure about that?" Lucario questioned.

"What do you mean. Do you not trust me to talk to the boy?" Arceus asked, curious at the wold like Pokemon stance.

Learning on a nearby tree, Lucario replied, "No of course not. It's just... I'm not sure if that is the wises choice. He may not like it. I sense that he dislikes being weak and held down. I guess it's from his motto never give up."

Hearing this, Arceus nodded his head and wisely answered, "More reason why we should talk to him. He may seem strong but I'm sure you can see that on the inside he is a frail, sad boy looking for a way out of the mess he unwilling was sucked into."

With Lucario reflecting on his moments with Ash, the aura pokemon let out a sight. Admitting, "Fine. I see it as well. But I still believe we should wait a bit. Ensure that he is comfortable with us."

"Comfortable with us? Have you seen how he first reacted to seeing us? He seemed ecstatic about our existence," Arceus noted.

"Yeah but that doesn't mean Ash is just going to tell his life story. When he showed the bruises he seemed extremely embarrassed and hesitant. It is clear that he prefers to keep this side of his life behind a closed door," Lucario replied.

Arceus thought about this. Would he mind mythical creatures pressing him about his dark secrets? "Perhaps... However, we need to ensure the boy's safety. He may be our only hope," Arceus confidently answered.

Standing up straight, Lucario walked up to Arceus. He then finally replied, "I understand." After bowing to the God Pokemon, Lucario turned on his heel and walked to the echo of Ash and Pikachu barking at each other.

***

With the same bright light returning to envelop the red eyes of the God Pokemon.  Arceus then heard a high pitched squeak from a yellow mouse yell, "Ampahros turn off your light! You are going to make my blind," while frantically trying to shield his eyes from the light rays extruding from the tail of Ampahros.

The large yellow sheep-like Pokemon innocently looked back at its illuminating tail. Realising that it was shinning the electric Pokemon immediately extinguished the light. Clumsily, Ampahros turned and exclaimed, "Sorry Pikachu. Sorry, everyone."

Arceus then replied, "It's ok. Try not to do it again." Nodding his head, Ampahros rotated his large body and hurriedly wobbled away from the group.

Still recovering from the bright light, Ash asked, "So... what did you want to tell me Arceus?" While rubbing and rapidly blinking his eyes to clear his vision of blurriness.

Letting out a small sigh, Arceus hesitantly replied,  "Ash... I want to ask you a personal question ok."

Hearing this, Ash's blindness disappeared and he snapped his focus onto Arceus and replied, "Ok... what is the question?"

Hesitantly, Arceus exclaimed, "Well... It's about your life in your world. Specifically what happens in the four walls of your home?

Ash POV

Immediate after hearing this, my heart began to violently pump blood faster and faster. Faster than someone who had run 100 meters at the Olympics. My breathing became more shallow than a small crack in the pavement.

I'm going to hate this.

Never. Never have I ever enjoyed anyone, and I mean anyone, trying to dig into my personal life. Even if they are doing this to help me, I can't help but feel, useless, pathetic, and the complete opposite as my dad. My life has spiralled out of control, like a plane without a wing, and I couldn't do a dam thing about it. How would my dad think of me right now? Disgust? Not being able to take care of mum when he did so easily. If he was to see me now, he would be disappointed. Refocusing on the majestic God pokemon in front of me, I defensively reply, "Why do you want to know?"

Arceus must have sensed the anxiety in my petrified voice. So the horse like Pokémon calmly exclaimed, "Calm down Ash. Nothing bad will happen. We just need to know something." Listening to the Arceus' advice, I close my eyes and take long deep breaths to slow down my rapid heart rate.

Seeing this, Arceus asked, "When you were training your aura today. Lucario noticed some... alarming bruises forming across your stomach." I hesitantly nodded my head as my hands slithered around my stomach, almost constricting it. Noticing my stress, the God Pokemon reassured "There is no need to hide. There is no need to be scared. What has happened in your life? It will help us understand you and humans better. It will allow us to help you. So relax... Before  you start strangling your self." I let at a small chuckle at Arecus attempt at humour, making my arms fall to my side.

I then peer down at my red and black shoes, crushing the lushes grass beneath it. Calmly I exclaim, "Not sure if you guys can. You are stuck here after all."

A rough voice from Lucario injected, "Well. That means we can't tell anyone about this then. Your secret will be safe with us. Also, it is usually better releasing all your built-up frustrations."

Before I could reply, a high pitched voice from Mew insisted, "There is nothing to worry about here. We are all here for you. So please tell us. So we can help you like you are doing for us."

Should I tell them? Should I reveal all the bruises and tears I kept bottled over these 3 years of hell. Not even my mum knows half of the events that have happened in my life. Everyone else is only scratching the surface of my life. Should I let them in? No. Not yet. Things could change. Maybe I let them in... a bit... But twist the truth a bit. Ash hesitantly replied, "Um. Sadly it's all true... Just some things didn't fall my way. My friends left me for some camel and then the dominoes just fell from there. my father tragically disappeared as well but there is nothing I can do about it now. Besides, I've gotten over it. It's fine." Please don't think too much about.

The four of them all turn to each other and nod their heads at each other. Sending a shot of gloom and dread around my body. Insticuvetly, my hands starts to rub the back of my raven hair in nervousness. Lucario walked to me and whispered, "Follow us." Not wanting to annoy them I obey and follow, Lucario, Mew and Pikachu, took me into one of the large distorted buildings surrounding the courtyard. Weaving through the endless abyss of identical hallways, we finally turn into a small, unfurnished wooden-floored, room with cream coloured walls. On the far side of the room, there was a circular window that peered out onto the vast dark abyss of the reverse world. Appearing from the window Arceus white and dark grey face covered the view.

With Pikachu opening the window so that Arceus can hear into the conversation, the God Pokemon calmly explained, "Ash... We all can see that it is not fine. You are not fine. Tell us the truth. Please. We can help you."

Adding on to Arceus, Lucario announced, "Pikachu and Mew put their life and pokemon existence on the line to help you."

Pikachu then leapt up onto my right shoulder exclaiming into my ear, "Yeah, you owe me for that-"

Before Pikachu could finish scolding me Mew teleported behind Pikachu and smacked him in the back of the head, with the pink Pokémon scolding, "Not the time Pikachu." Making a chuckle leave my lungs. Mew then turned to me and insisted, "But they are right. We are here for you Ash. Like a family. And a family protects each other... Even if this family is made up of millions of Pokemon."

Maybe I should tell them. They do seem like they care. Maybe its time for someone to come into my life and help me out... But I thought Serena and Gary would be there for me. What if they do the same?

No.

I can't think like that. I can't stay like this forever. I have to help mum. Its what Dad would want me to do. Its what he would do. These creatures are completely different from humans. They have constantly shown me compassion, love and friendship. Things I rarely receive in my world nowadays. I have to trust them. I can't do this alone.

Deciding my course of action, I let out a loud sigh and reluctantly exclaimed, "Ok. You want the truth?"

The trio all silently nodded their heads in unison. Their eyes fixed directly on me and what I'm about to say in down my face. Staring right back at them, I finally turn the valve on my mouth and release the pressure that I've bottled over the years, "It... It hurts. To be thrown away like a chess piece. Years upon years of hard work to keep my friends happy just went to waste in an instant. All the laughing, crying and fighting, gone like it was sand being blown away. After years of forming memories, gone. Everyone. Dawn, May, Drew, after helping them through their relationship struggles, left me without a second thought. Misty, a friend since childhood, gone. After all the times they said that we will be friends for life, those words were thrown away, and placed in the deepest, most desolate places they could find in their brain. After I helped them during their lowest points, no one was there to help me when I needed it the most. Not Gary, not Dawn, and not Serena. Serena, my best friend, ran off to be with a boy she said she... 'disliked.' Left me for a boy, who has tortured me for years. And she did nothing. It was all an act. Everything was a waste of time."

Feeling tears start to edge out of my eyes, I take a moment to recover. To stop the water from seep out of my eyes, I turn away from the trio and start blinking rapidly to clear away the emotions in my eyes. Slowly, I begin to feel a furry warm paw grab my shoulder turning me around. To busy training to hold in my emotions, I let him. I turned to see the wolf-like Pokemon with his ruby red eyes, much like my teary red eyes now, staring right at me. With his rough voice, he exclaimed, "Tears release the pain that is embedded in your heart. Don't ever be afraid to cry."

I'm not sure if it was his words of wisdom or my inability to bottle my emotions, but, I lunged into Lucario's furry chest and bury my face into it, with tears pouring down my face. I felt the shock come from Lucario as I felt him take a step back as I lunged into him. He then tentatively wrapped his hands around my back, as if he didn't know how to react, and calmly replied, "It's, ok. let it out. Everything will be fine."

Yeah... I only was wanting for 'everything to be fine' for years. Unable to hold back words I start blabbering, "Its too much...  I'm only still here because I promised dad that I would take care of mum. Its the only thing I'm here for now. Not anyone. Just for her and Red."

Complete silence followed after I said this. No one uttered any sound besides the occasional sniffle from me. I was shocked by my outburst. Throughout the 3 years of this hellish world. I have uttered not a word about it. No one knows about my pieced heart that is barely holding together.  Suddenly Arceus stated, "Ash, you can be commended for putting on a brave personal for all there years. But, you can only be so strong for so long. You need someone to pick you up when you fall."

Pushing myself off Lucario I chimed, "Yeah, you guys can help, can't you. You guys are stuck here. There is nothing you can do."

Arceus replied, "Well. Maybe not right now. But with enough time and patient, we can turn these tears of despair into tears of joy. We can mend that aching heart of yours."

"I've waited 3 years for that. Hopefully, I can wait a little longer." I say with a small smile.
The others nod in agreement, with Lucario walking back to Mew and Pikachu.

Hastily I wipe away all the tears I let loose. Wanting to move on from the subject I inject, "But let's move on from this negativity. I don't like thinking about it. Sometimes people are not who they make out to be. They are in the past. I just have to forget about them. Like they did to me. I have a new chapter being laid out right now. And more importantly, I have all of you to hope me travel down this new path." 

"Awww. I knew you needed me," Pikachu joyfully exclaimed while leaping into my shoulder again.

"Yeah yeah. You may be annoying, but you are a good pal," I exclaim while patting the top of his head. Forcing an I loud coo out from the Yellow mouse Pokemon.

Looking past Arceus, huge white head, I see a yellow and orange array dance across the horizon of the darkened world. Wow. What an amazing sunset. Must be almost night time... Wait. Much like the sunset on the horizon, great clouds of dread and doom started to appear on my horizon. Hastily, I reach into my pocket to whip out my phone to check the time.

When doing this my phones time was glitching out, with numbers changing, appearing and disappearing. "Stupid phone isn't working," I say while tapping on the screen. In response I hear Lucario huff, "I would never rely on these magic devices."

Arceus then injected, "What device?"

Showing off the device I explain, "My phone, it's not telling me the time."

"O time? Well, judging by the sunset, it would be around 6 in your human world," Mew casually answered while gazing off into the sunset.

With my mind exploding, I yell, "So its been 3 hours!"

Confused Mew turned to me and questioned, "Yes? What's the problem?"

"My mum is going to kill me! I need to go now," I order while pointing to the door.

"Ok then let's go to the summoning area, quickly," Arceus announced while flying away from the window.

We all hastily bolted out of the jungle of buildings and dashed towards the summoning area, with Pikachu leading us around the rocky island. When we all finally arrive at the portal area Arceus was standing there with Giratina. Arceus then jokingly exclaimed, "What took you so long?" I see Pikachu growl with annoyance. Bringing a chuckle out of me. 

Slightly agitated by the comment, Pikachu exclaimed, "Yeah yeah. Let's get Ash back to his home."

With a slightly chuckle Arceus ordered, "Of course. Giratina. Open the portal."

Nodding, the large ghost let a monstrous roar, summoning a portal at his ghostly position.

Before I could even think about saying my goodbyes, Arceus exclaimed, "Ash wait."

I turn to Arceus and hurriedly ask, "What?"

Stepping forward the white horse-like pokemon exclaimed, "Thank you for trusting us. I know its hard for you to talk about it. I know its hard for you to trust others now. So thank you."

Pikachu blurted, "Heck, I'm surprised you didn't tell anyone about my- I mean OUR existence."

After a chuckle, I reply, "I don't know. I guess I had a feeling that I could trust you all. Aura perhaps."

"We thank you for trusting us, Ash. So we decided to give you a small gift. A token of our appreciation," Arceus announced.

"Gift?" I ask

Nodding Arceus confirmed, "Yes, a gift. But don't expect anything too extravagant or technical like the stuff in your world. But I l know you will love it."

Before I could reply a woven leaf pouch, that was smaller than my backpack, gracefully glided down onto my feet. Opening and feeling the round squishy contents inside the pouch. I finally grasp the mysterious object and pull it out of the bag. Revealing, the blue Oran berry that I love, with more of them inside. In fact, there were all types of berries in the pouch.

Before I could say anything, Pikachu exclaimed, "I know it's may seem very dull, but we know you like them."

Filled with joy I reply, "It's fine that it's not that exciting. I love it, Thank you. It's been years since I've received something nice from someone who isn't my mum."

With a smile, the God Pokemon explained, "Your welcome Ash. You deserve it. You can use it to add extra flavour to whatever you want. But, make sure nobody sees them or else they may be a little suspicious."

Nodding, I reply, "Thank you. This has honestly been one of the best days of my life. At least in years." After I saying this I turn on my heel and walk towards the dark purple abyss. Before jumping into the void, a shock was sent down and throughout my body, making me stop in my tracks. Feeling a pull from behind me, I turn back to find the source of my attraction. This attraction felt, oddly familiar, but it was a very faint pull. Before I could pinpoint where it was coming from, Lucario stepped forward and asked, "Everything ok?"

Still confused at the sudden tug, I reply, "I felt something pulling me from behind me. As if... I felt something or someone call out to me."

After a moment of thinking, Lucario explained, "Its probably your aura. Since you started unlocking its potential you are starting to sense certain types of auras."

Satisfied with the answer, I wave goodbye to my new friends and disappear into the purple abyss back to my dimension.

3rd person

As soon as Ash disappeared the group of Pokémon huddled together with Pikachu blurting, "So, should we tell Ash that-"

Arceus immediately answered, "No. Not now. He is not ready. He has too much in his mind right now."

Continuing the questions the electric Pokémon continued, "Then what about Giovanni?"

Before Arceus could reply Lucario cut in, "He may try to confront him. We don't want that yet"

Suddenly, a purple poisonous gas cloud appeared from thin air in front of the group.

"Something is happening in Ash's world," Mew announced.

Lucario then stepped forward and added, "I sense it too. He is plotting his next move. We need to be prepared for it."

***

As the ominous clouds formed together to cover the blue clear sky, as the rain started to patter onto the pavement, a honey-haired teenager dashed down the bare pathways of Pallet Town. Her hair and clothes blew around as if she was in a vacuum, as she desperately tried to get to the sanctuary of her home and out of the hazardous conditions.

Serena POV

Why did I believe that we would keep track of time while shopping? I should have left when it first crossed my mind. Come on Serena. Come with us. It's our treat. You need to relax after you and Calem had that incident after all. No need to worry you will be back home before you will even know it... Yeah. There is no need to worry when you live near the shopping centre. Now I'm stuck out here. In this stinking weather.

As I turn the corner into the home straight, the feather-like rain that was falling onto me slowly started to fall harder and harder. Feeling this, my screaming legs started to run even faster, like a Pikachu using agility. Finally, I turn into my driveway and dash up the wooden stairs and into the cover of the porch. I then put my hands on my knees and take in large gasp after large gasp, to recover from my manic-like run.

After partially getting my breath back I pull out the keys from my bag and unlock the brown wooden door. Embracing the warmth of my home with the aroma of mum's cooking wafting down and around the hallway, filling my senses with joy and relief. Trudging down the hallway, filled with my mum's horse racing trophies, I see my mum cooking on her electrical stove.

With Grace gracefully swaying to the music in her head, I clear my throat and boom, "Hi mum!"

Spooking her, my mum jumped a bit into the air a bit. Realising that it was me she took a breath and replied, "Serena... You're home," while putting her hand on her heart.

"Of course mum. Where else would I go?" I bluntly say. 

Rolling her eyes, she questioned "Did you get caught in the rain"

Annoyed with this dumb question I shoot, "Did I get caught in the rain!? Of course, I did! Can't you see I'm soaking wet? My hair is soaking wet," while trying to strain the water out of my hair.

She then let an annoying chuckle out, making me even more annoyed. She then asked, "Well then. Where were you then? Out with Calem."

A bolt of uneasiness ran through my veins, transforming my annoying attitude to feelings of anxiousness and worry.

Seeing my change in attitude, her motherly instincts kicked. So she asked, "Dear, is something going on between you to."

She asked it like a statement, not a question. As if she was forcing me to tell her. Full of nervousness, my right-hand began to rub up and down my left arm. I tentatively replied, "Ha. Um... Well, Calem and I had a little argument which resulted with us not being with each other anymore. So the girls forced me to go shopping with them. To 'cheer' me up. I guess."

When she started walking up to me, My nervousness swirled even stronger around my body. What is she going to do? Suddenly, she wrapped her arms around me and pulled me into her chest saying "O, Dear. I'm sorry to hear that. Are you going to be ok? We can do something if you would like?"

Quickly I blurt, "No no, it's fine. I... I sort of wanted it to end anyways."

Shocked she immediately answered, "Really?"

"Yeah... I've been feeling this way for a while but never dared to say anything about it... Until we argued." I explain

Curiously, Grace asked, "Did anything happen during the argument that I should know?"

Trying to sound as calm as a quiet summers day, I answer, "Ah. Well... Calem said something to me that I really didn't appreciate. So at first, I tried to stay calm and collected. But he kept going and going so it got to the point where my blood was bolling. So I couldn't hold it in any more. It was all a blur. But I may have pushed him off his chair and onto the ground. Hard." 

Sweat started beading down my head. Would my mum care if I hurt someone? Would she be disappointed? Suddenly, she let at a sigh. O no. She is disappointed in me.

Surprisingly, like a balloon bursting, my mum burst out laughing as if someone had told her a funny joke. Seeing this I hesitantly say, "Er. So you are not mad?"

After recovering from the laughing fit she had a confused like painted across her face. So she asked, "Mad? Why would I be mad? I never knew you had that inner demon in yourself, Serena. Must have inherited from me."

Relaxing my nerved body, I murmur, "Thank God."

My mum's face suddenly became serious. Placing her hands on her hips. Removing all the laughter she just had. She then announced,  "Look, I know I'm the one always preaching about being calm and peaceful Serena... Butttt, in some cases... I guess it's ok to be a bit more... physical. Especially if he was doing that to you. But don't try to make it a habit. Ok?"

Hearing this I quickly nod in agreement.

She smiled at my response. But then quickly turned into her thinking her face, with a hand rubbing her chin. She continued, "If I'm going to be honest Serena. I've never like that boy. He is always boasting about his achievements. So sometimes it's a good thing to knock someone down a couple of levels. Like you did. Both figuratively and literally. That's why I always liked Ash he was always calmer and nicer about things."

Not wanting to "Yeah... A-a-ash," I murmur with despair.

Blind to my words, I see a light bulb turn on in her head, making me nervous. With a finger shooting up she announced, "Maybe now you can date Ash. I remember you telling me about how you had a huge crush on him. You couldn't stop talking about him. It was getting a tad annoying."

With my cheeks turning as red as a strawberry, I bellow, "MUM! I just broke up with Calem."

Unphased, she calmly says, "And? You have been wanting to break up with him for a while. Why would that matter?"

Trying to move on from the embarrassing topic, I blurt, "It is too soon I feel. And yes, maybe I had a SMALL crush on him but that... That's in the past"

I see her eyes narrow with suspicion so I quickly take my ears off her face and look down at my dripping skirt, attempting to hide my sadness by straining it.

Still suspicious she asked, "O really. OK. Well, did anything else happen at school today?

I immediately reply, "Besides me and Calem. Ummmm. Brock gave us a paired assessment. And due to his... sixth sense... He paired me up with Ash."

Taking a moment to process the information, I see my mum's face turn into a smirk. Not a calming and happy smirk but an unnerving evil smirk. With the smirk sending nerves down my spine she announced. "Ash? Ahhh that's good. I'm sure you two will work together great," my mum announced happily. Clearly overjoyed with my partner.

Quietly I exclaim, "Yeah. He is a good partner," while looking at the marbled ground of the kitchen.

Suddenly, mum put her hand on my shoulder making me look at her face with interest. She asked, "Dear. What's wrong with you and Ash."

With my eyes violently widening, I quickly turn away for her gaze and nervously replied,  "Huh. W-w-what do you mean? Nothing is wr-."

"You know what I mean Serena." She snapped.  "It's obvious to see. I haven't seen you with him in ages. you two were inseparable. You two always meet up, either here and at his house at least once a week. And you always went on about that boy. So. What happened? Don't say nothing has happened Serena because something has changed. At first, I attributed this to you just growing up. But now I realise it's not. So what happened Serena."

The silence beckoned around us, like a moth being attracted towards the light. I felt her eyes staring right at me. I don't know what to say. Should I tell her? Looking into her I saw the emotion as forceful as a compressor, yet, it still carried the warmth,  from the surface of the sun, and the compassion from a mother. 

Taking in a large breath I finally turn the valve on my mouth, "... Ash and I stopped talking... For a while now."

"Stopped? Why? You two were inseparable," She pressed.

"W-w-well. Yes. When I started dating Calem. Ash and I drifted away. I focused more on Calem, leaving Ash behind. Also when I wanted to talk to Ash Calem held me back, stopping me from talking to him,"

I hear my mum take a long and intimidating sigh. Making me shiver in my black shoes. What felt like an eternity my mum finally admitted, "Serena... I'm disappointed."

I put my head down. Not wanting to look at my mum's face. I wouldn't be able to bear it. Being a disappointment is something a don't want. Being a disappointment to my mum... That is the last thing I want to hear.

Continuing she explains, "For 1, you left your best friend for a boy who doesn't even treat you that well. 2, don't try to put all the blame on Calem. You are at fault as well. You were the one that said yes to the man. And for all those years, surely you at least had an opportunity to say something to him. But, you decided not to."

Feeling tears start to form behind my eyes, I stutter, "I-I-I know mum. I-I realise that. But during this time he has changed. Whenever I think about approaching all I see is the shell of the Ash I knew. It scares me away."

Abruptly, my mum announced, "Of course he changed. What do you expect him to remain the same Ash you knew? His best friends, including you, left him when his dad suddenly vanishes from the face of the Earth.  Of course, he would change. I would be shocked if he didn't change."

Again, the deadly silence returned. Gracing us with its disgusting embrace once again. Feeling the waves of tension wafting in the room, my mind thinks back to the revolting actions I gave to Ash. I feel a tear race out of my eye and down my soft cheek. Quickly followed by others. What did I turn into? Why did I do it?

Wiping the tears from my eyes, I choke, "I-I left Ash. I was too scared to be left behind. So...I left him behind. He probably hates me. And I don't blame him. What kind of best friend am I. When I can't even be there on the day he needed someone the most. I should be there with him."

Grace's hand then grasped my shoulder. Feeling the warm touch of my mother I look up into my mother's blue eyes. "Dear. Yes. You have made mistakes. no doubt about it." I sadly nod my head in agreement. Mistakes? What an understatement.

Seeing the nod, she continued, "But, there is still time. There is still time to make it up to him. You can still be the light he seeks. Be the friend he so desperately deserves. Will it be hard yes. No way around it. But if you want him back. Then you must show it to him. Not tell him."

I take a moment to process her words. Maybe she is right. I still have time to make things right. Hearing this, I feel my tears start to wither away. So I wipe away the remaining tears I have left. "Yes, mum. I know what I have to do," I say.

Suddenly, my Mum asked, "You still like him right?"

I feel my cheeks flare up and change into an unhealthy shade of red. Attempting to hide the embarrassing blush, I cover my face with my blonde hair.  Stammering I reply, "Er. W-well. I may have a very small, tiny microscopic feeling for him."

Rudely cutting me off my mum boomed, "O shush. Its's crystal clear. You face is a tomato right now, You like him. A lot. Maybe even-"

I quickly cut her off by covering her mouth. But then I feel my face turning an even deeper shade of Red. So I hastily turn away from he gazer and annoyingly gave in, muttering, "Fine. Maybe it's a little bit more than a small crush."

Patting my shoulder, she jokingly announced, "Finally.  It only took you forever to admit that Serena."

"Yeah yeah. No need to boast about it," I huff while glaring at her.

She let out a giggle. An annoying one. So I playfully roll my eyes at her. Straightening she explains, "But this is only the start, Serena. You have a long road ahead to get to Ash. And that road will be full of bumps and potholes. So don't you think it will be a walk in the park."

I then pump my fist and fire, "Right," with the flames of determination sprinkled around my eyes and through my body.

Suddenly, her index finger shot up, as her face lit up with another devious idea. While making me nervous, she announced, "And as an added incentive, not that you need any, If you don't do this, then your horse racing training will start back up." With an evil grin painted across her face.

Dreading the idea, I nervously squeak, "H-h-horse... racing? You wouldn't."

Deviously nodding, she emphasises, "O yes I would. But, I'm sure we will not have to worry about that."

Sarcastically, I shoot, "Sureeee mum." She let out a small giggle at my irritated attitude. I look back down at my soaked clothes, letting out a groan. Annoyed, I irritatedly explained, "Now I have to wash my clothes due to the rain. They were my favourite set of clothes as well!"

With a small sigh, my mum waved her hand and offered, "Now now Serena. Don't worry about them. I'll wash them up. Now quickly have a shower."

My eyes glimmer with excitement. Jumping up and down and into my mother's arms, I yell, "Really! Thanks, mum! Your the best!" While wildly grinning

Embarrassed, she hesitantly replied, "Eh. Its only clothes but I'll take the praise from my daughter."

Calming down, I take a step back. My face as serious as stone. "But don't ruin them! Like you did to my other clothes!" I boom with a finger pointed at her.

"Sheesh. She still remembers that" she bitterly murmurs under her breath, while crossing her arms.

I then wink at her and start rushing up the stairs.

Before I reach my room, she calls out, "Have a shower, Serena. Don't want to smell bad when you see Ash tomorrow."

Immediately, I feel my face turn back into a strawberry. Filled with anger and embarrassment I boom, "MUM!" Before I loudly shutting the door behind me. Looking at my bedside table, I see a photo of me in my younger years. I was in the Vidiran Forest with a straw hat. A Raven haired boy was sitting right next to me, with the widest of grins. He still looks the same. I'm sorry Ash. I promise I'll be there for you now on.

Ash POV

Exhaustedly I trudge into my house. Soaking wet from the rainstorm overhead. I hastily grab a face towel from the bathroom and dry my face. With my mind screaming with exhaustion, I collapse, like a Snorlax, onto the living room couch. I then managed to grasp the TV remote on the wooden table in front of me and turn on the TV. Removing the black curtains on the screen revealed two reporters doing the news bulletin. A Women with long red hair, and a man with shoulder-length purple hair. I hear their voices squeaking from the speakers but my brain is too tired to process any of the sounds they send to me.

After minutes of dozing into nothingness, I finally pull my mind back from oblivion and switch off the TV. Pulling the black curtains over the screen again. Digging into my bag, I pull out a berry from my bag and munch down onto it. Looking at the window I see the rain pouring down onto the window. Urgh. Winter is coming closer and closer. I hate the cold. it makes everything so miserable and bland. Suddenly, I feel my mouth start to heat up as if a fire has started. Huffing loudly, I look around to see what is causing the burning sensation. In my hand, I see a half-eaten yellow and orange berry that looks like a spinning top toy. My mind then suddenly racers at a million miles an hour, is this a spicy berry? O no. The heat continued to get hotter and hotter, so I rush into the kitchen and run ice-cold water down my mouth.

Suddenly, a female voice exclaims, "O Ash your home... What happened to you?"

"Ho-ho-hot... My mouth is literally... on fire." I scream into the sink.

Confused, she asked, "Fire? What's that in your hand?"

Look down at the fiery berry, I fell all heat drain from my face. O no. Thinking on the spot I lie, "Er. It- its a science project... Don't worry about it. Just have to change some of the parameters on this thing."

Quietly, she answered, "Ok."

Confused by the muted tone, I look towards my mum. At a glance, she seemed fine. She still has her brown hair and eyes. But her skin looks paler. I then notice that she is leaning heavily on the doorway. With this in mind, I close my eyes and tap into my aura abilities. Looking around the black environment, I see her purple aura fluctuate rapidly. I see her purple fire illuminate very little. Compared to the ones I saw with Pikachu and Mew.

Leaving aura mode, I open my eyes to see her brown eyes curiously, staring right back at me. She questions, "You ok Ash?

Snapping back out of aura mode I reply, "Yeah I'm fine. I should be asking you that mum. You don't seem fine."

Continuing to rest on the doorway she gloomily replies, "I just feel a bit dizzy Ash. Don't worry. I just need a little rest."

I'm no doctor. But she is clearly not fine. I cross my arms and assertively exclaim, "Mum, it's clear you are not fine. How long has this been happening?"

I see her let out a sigh. Clearing her throat she quietly admits, "Its being coming and going for the past week."

My eyes widen at the news. A whole week! How haven't I noticed? Slowly, I walk up to her and place my hand on her shoulder, making her lookup. I question, "Why haven't you seen a doctor? I can take you if you want." Shooting a reassuring smile after I finish.

She then shook her head immediately. Making me confused. But before I could reply she announced, "Giovanni said I'm fine. You are just overreacting to it."

Erratically, I wave my arms around and boomed, "And since when was Giovanni a qualified doctor? Why would you listen to that-"

"Ash." She assertively warns, immediately silencing me. She continues, "I know you don't like him but... he is your father" Why is she defending him? What is happening? It must be a sickness. It has to be.

My anger increased drastically throughout my body at the thought of Giovanni being my father. Holding back the anger I fume, "No. He is not my father. A real father doesn't come home to yell and beat his 'son' over nothing. My real father is the man who disappeared 3 years ago. And until I know what happened to him, no one can replace him. If he was such a great husband then why wouldn't he let you go to the clinic? See your doctor. He has the money after all."

Suddenly, the wooden doorframe felt the full force of my mum's fist barreling into it like a fright train. With her fist leaving a large crack. The echo of the slam roamed around the house. I was immediately silenced by her violence. Never before I have seen her get that angry to the point where something was broken. As the silenced wailed in the back, she finally uttered, "I've just been working too hard Ash. Stress that's all it is it! And you're not helping with that Ash! You and Giovanni always argue. Never stop, not even for a second. Why can't you two get along? Just a little bit. The weather is turning for the worst Ash. He could kick you out of the house any time he wants. This is getting worst and worst Ash. You could get seriously hurt. You could even be" Before she could finish she burst out coughing uncontrollably, like a balloon popping.

With my mouth regaining sounds, "Mum!" I yell, running up to her like Pikachu using agility. "Are you ok?" There was no reply. So I hoist her over my shoulder and carefully walked her up the stairs and into her room. Quickly leading her to the double bed, I cautiously tuck her in.

Before I could turn her hand latched onto my risk, "I don't want you to get hurt Ash." I hear her mumble.

I grin at her words and reply, "I know mum. I know. Now rest." Nodding her head she releases my wrist.

Quickly, I ran out the door and into the kitchen to grab a cup of water for her. Before leaving I frantically open and close cabinets and cupboards until I find cold and flu tablets.  When returning I see her staring deeply at the white ceiling.

Walking up with the water, "Mum?" I question. Immediately, her eyes snapped onto me. "Have this," I order while handing her the medicine and water.

Complying, she silently grabbed the medicine and downed the pill with water. Overjoyed with her action, I order, "Good. Now just rest mum."

I hear her let out a sigh. "Ok, Ash... I'll rest... But sometimes... you have to rest ash. You help others all the time Ash. But... You are the one who needs help as well," She states.

Grasping her hand I respond, "Its fine mum. Trust me. Now rest. I will see you in the morning." I then kiss her on the forehead, then cautiously tiptoe out of the room, quietly closing it behind me.

You are all I have left mum. Through thick or thin, no matter the situation, I'll be there for you. Just like how dad did, for you and I.

Thank you for reading. As mentioned I am extremely sorry for not updating this book regularly. I will try to update more regularly. But, I cannot guarantee it as I have university to deal with. But I will be working on it when I get the time to. I will also be online regularly, so if you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask. Again I am sorry for the late update. I hope you enjoyed the  chapter. And if you did, leave a vote. Thank you