BP: I've read plenty of betrayal fics from Pokémon, so I'd thought I'd try one too. I thought since I wrote one for Prince Of Tennis, why not write one for Pokémon too?

Warning: Hunter x Hunter reference, Hunger Games references, I also didn't include the Kalos characters because I don't know them very well. Most information posted is taken from Bulbapedia. So Kalos doesn't exist in this fic.

Shout out to mysterypink98, my real life best friend, for helping me out!

Have you guys ever heard of the PAL region?

PAL stand for Pokémon Awakens Love. It's a region that supports all five regions known to the Pokémon World. The general environment a paradise for Pokémon; hence the name. If a trainer is caught abusing Pokémon within this region, it's an immediate death sentence, as PAL takes the welfare of Pokémon, whether wild or trainer, very seriously.

With this in mind, pollution is also considered a crime here. If you are caught tainting the environment in anyway, you'll be sent to jail.

Trainers are expected to do everything they can to protect their own Pokémon, which is why all the trainers living in PAL know how to fight in one way or another without their Pokémon. PAL contains all the Pokémon in the six regions, and also, sometimes, even Legandaries flock here to relax in this paradise.

Let's not forget those that protect the PAL. Officer Jennies around the region are nothing compared to them. They are called "Hunters", people that have proven themselves through rigorous examination to be an elite member of humanity. If you can pass the Hunter Exam, or "Exam from Hell" as PAL people may call it (since out of 1,200 applicants, only about 10 pass and get their license, and some actually died in the Exam), you have many benefits, such as 95% of all public facilities can be used at no cost. Furthermore, all such services are provided at first class, unrivalled freedom to travel around the regions, almost no legal responsibility for murder, and so much more.

Most people from the G-Men members are actually Hunters provided by PAL Government herself, which is why they are considered formidable.

As for contests, instead of winning five Ribbons and participating in the Grand Festival for the Ribbon Cup, there are two types of contests: Normal and Super. Normal contests are also split into five categories: Cool, Beauty, Smart, Tough and Cute. There are also four ranks: Normal, Super, Hyper and Master.

As for Super Contests, It is also split into the five categories like the normal contests, but the rankings are as follows: Normal, Great, Ultra and Master. You need to win ribbons from Normal rank from a certain category in order to enter the next rank's contest in the same category. To be a Top Coordinator, once needs to win Master Rank in at least one category for either contest type. (A/N: It's just like in the games. Since Hoenn and Sinnoh didn't have anything like that in the anime, I figured I put both here in this region, since it's considered special)

It's also the most difficult region to be a Champion as the Elite Four of the PAL is also something else altogether. The PAL Elite Four is well-known to have the only members that specialize in two types instead of just one. Each member of the Elite Four are also Hunters and has unique abilities that make the stand out among the other trainers. No one could even get past the first member of the Elite Four.

Only one person has managed to defeat all four members and be crowned Champion.

And that is Ashura Red Satoshi Ketchum, better known as Ash Ketchum.

Said 19 year old boy was currently sitting at the rooftop of the PAL Plateau; home to the PAL Elite Four and its Champion. With him was a certain Pikachu, sitting on his shoulder and trying to comfort him by nuzzling his cheek and licking it as well. Ash smiled a little and patted his Pikachu, who let out a coo of contentment.

A Lucario was with him as well, sitting next to him, silently giving his support.

"Beautiful night, isn't it, Master?" Lucario tried to break the silence by making small talk.

"Yeah." Ash nodded.

Lucario frowned. "Don't tell me you're still thinking about the incident four years ago."

Ash frowned, as he thought back on the events four years ago.

Ash was on his way home to Pallet Town, with his famous Pikachu after the Unova League. He made it to the Final Eight, but got knocked out by Cameron's Lucario.

"Can't wait to see mum! Right Pikachu?" He asked his long-time partner and best friend.

"Pi Pikachu!" Pikachu replied happily.

Ash smiled at Pikachu, as his house was in sight. He was about to open the door to announce his presence, when he heard voices. He furrowed his brow in confusion, as he recognized those voices.

Brock Slate, former gym leader of Pewter City, Misty Waterflower, Cerulean City Gym Leader, May Maple, a Pokémon Co-ordinator from Hoenn, Max Maple, younger brother of May, Dawn Berlitz, Co-ordinator of Sinnoh and daughter of Johanna Berlitz, a former Top Co-ordinator, Iris, a girl who dreamed to be a Dragon Master someday, Cilan, one of the three Gym Leaders in the Striaton Gym and A-Class Connoisseur. His mother was in as well. Wait, was that Trip's voice? Why would he be here as well?

'Now why would they all be here at this moment?' Ash thought. They were supposed to be off on their own journey chasing their own dreams, not be in Pallet Town discussing whatever it is. He crept closer to listen to their conversation.

He immediately wished he hadn't done that.

"Seriously? He got into the Top Eight again?" Misty sneered. "He just wouldn't accept that he would never be the top, would he?"

"I agree. He's always using that rat during the battles that led to his loss." Brock said. "I mean to him, friendships are more important than power."

"Well, he's an idiot if he can win by just pure friendship." Iris said scathingly. "He doesn't know you have to have power as well!"

"He was a complete idiot to use Pikachu against powerhouses like that Latios in the Sinnoh League, although he did defeat that Latios." Dawn added in. "No wonder he lost all the Leagues he participated."

"Well, I agree, and he's my son. Should we just tell him to give up?" His mother sighed.

"Yeah, he'll always be that little kid who would never win against any of us." Iris said. "Perhaps, Mrs. Ketchum, he might stay home with you, which is what you want right?"

"He's always out chasing a dream that is impossible to fulfil. I want him home for once." said Mrs. Ketchum.

"So, when he gets home, let's tell him to give up on his dreams!" Trip said. The others made noises of agreement.

Although by this time, Ash is shaking in sadness, betrayal, anger and hurt, he still held back Pikachu as it wanted to just charge in and electrocute them on the spot for saying things like that to his best friend.

"Let me at them, Ash!" Pikachu hissed. "I want to make them suffer for what they said."

Ash gave a strange smile on his lips, although his tears have made its appearance. He didn't notice he could suddenly understand Pikachu. "I think I got a better idea." He turned and ran to Professor Oak's laboratory, clutching to a struggling Pikachu tightly to make sure he doesn't do anything rash.

"Ash, my boy! How have you…" he trailed off in shock as he saw the look on Ash's face and the angry Pikachu.

"Ash, are you alright?" Gary asked from behind Professor Oak. Tracey nodded his concern

Ash told the Oaks and Tracey everything he heard, and they were shocked. Tracey even dropped his sketchbook in shock.

"How could they?" Tracey hissed. "How could they say such a thing?"

Ash grimaced. "I know. That's why I'm going to get away and train- by myself with all my Pokémon."

Professor Oak smiled. "I'll arrange that."

He took out what looked like a plain old watch. "It may look like a watch, but it has unlimited functions. It can call people, send messages, gives you information of any Pokémon that is scanned from all regions, gives you a map of where you are and how to get to your desired destination, it also has a list of moves the Pokémon you scan can learn, and also allows you to carry all your Pokémon at once. It's called the CommuniDex. Once you put it on, it's keyed to your DNA so only you can take it off. Not even someone disguised as you would be able to take it off. Also, it is waterproof so you can keep it on at all times even when you shower."

"Thanks, Professor Oak." Ash gave a small smile.

"Ash, you have no idea what you are capable of." said Gary. "Go, and make sure to come back and show us what you're made of." This is one of the rare times he didn't say "Ashy-boy".

Tracey smiled. "Yes, I know you can do it."

Ash smiled, took all his Pokémon and left the lab.

He took out a fish lure bait given by Misty and one half of the Terracotta Ribbon won at a contest with May.

"I'm never going back. The past is the past." Ash declared, throwing the bait towards one side, and the Ribbon towards another.

During his anger, he did not know that his aura was accumulating, and it chose now to activate.

He unknowingly teleported, and landed in an unknown place.

This place was later known as the region PAL.

"Master….MASTER!" Lucario hit Ash over the head. Ash could understand what his Pokémon is saying even without telepathy as he had mastered how to use aura during those three years. It's also useful in combat. However, this isn't unusual, as all Elite members knew how to use aura and understand Pokéspeech.

"Oww…what?" he groaned.

"You're spacing out again." Lucario said. He looked up to see Pikachu frowning at him as well.

"You know, Ash, if you're thinking about the betrayal, at least some of their Pokémon didn't agree and abandoned their masters just for you. As well as the Legendries that followed you on your quest." Pikachu reminded him. "Not to mention our old friends somehow managed to find us here, and agreed to join back here with us."

He remembered that dream. It was just right after one of his Elite members found him and took him in.

"Where am I?" Ash asked, looking around at what looked like a royal ballroom with its lavish decorations.

"Welcome, Chosen One." said a voice. He turned to see a white equine resembling a centaur with a grey, vertically-striated underside. The striated pattern has similar recurrences on the underside of its mane, tail, and face. Its four pointed feet are tipped with gold hooves.

"Arceus!" He cried out.

Arceus smiled. "Yes, Chosen One." One by one, the other Legendries appeared before him. The Legendary Bird trio, the Mew duo, the Legendary Beasts trio, the Tower Duo, Celebi, the four Regis, the Eon duo, the Weather Trio, Jirachi, Deoxys, the Lake Guardians, the Creation Trio, the Lunar Duo, Manaphy, Heatran, Shaymin, Victini, the Swords of Justice, the Forces of Nature, the Tao Trio, Meloetta, Genesect, Mortality Duo, Zygarde, and finally, Diancie.

"Hi, Ash!" Latias flew over to him, and nuzzled him. Too bad Shaymin, Meloetta, Victini, Manaphy, Celebi and Mew had the same idea, and tackled him to the floor hugging him.

"Hi, Ash!" they chirped in unison. "Long time no see!"

"Hey, you guys." Ash smiled at them. "What's going on?"

"We've been watching you." said Darkrai. "After the betrayal by your friends, we decided it's time for us to step in to help, to thank you for what you have done for us."

"Saving us selflessly, putting your lives just for us…" Shaymin said.

Meloetta nodded. "Which is why we have decided to thank you for what you done. All of us. We have decided to support you in whatever you decide to do."

"After seeing what your so-called friends did, we think it' the least we could do." said Mewtwo.

"Some of us have decided to join you in your quest, Ash." said Mew. "To thank you for all you have done."

"What?" Ash exclaimed. "But if you join up with me, it's dangerous. Who knows what those villainous teams such as Team Rocket would do if they find out you are with me? It sounds great and all, but you have duties to do, and I don't want it to be interrupted just for me. And you might have to participate in battles if you join with me. And I'm not going to let those villainous teams get their hands on you a second time!"

The Legendries were astounded, as they knew he was really and truly trying to protect them from unwanted attention and forced control.

"We understand, Chosen One." said Rayquaza. "But we want to travel the world, and who better than with you?"

"Since you treat Pokémon as friends, and you did us an amazing favour for all of us." said Celebi.

"Yeah, since you revived me from the Soul Dew using your aura, it has been absorbed in your body so it doesn't need guarding anymore." Latios finally spoke up.

"I even told Bianca and Lorenzo I'm going with you to see the world, and they agreed." said Latias.

"I even called your old Pokémon so that they'll come back to you." said Darkrai.

Ash knew he lost the battle, seeing he saw what the Pokémon were willing to do to follow him.

"For those who want to come, you can come, but I can't promise a pain-free journey, but I promise, I will do my best to protect all of you, and make sure I'll prove to everyone I'm a good trainer, and take responsibilities for my actions." He smiled at them. The Legendries cheered at this.

"Then, the ones joining you will be Victini, Manaphy, Mew, Mewtwo Lugia, Ho-oh, Shaymin, Meloetta, Latias and Latios, Darkrai, Zekrom, Celebi, Jirachi, Giratina, Palkia and finally, Dialga." said Arceus. "You'll find their Pokeballs at your bedside once you wake up, along with your old friends."

"Remember, Ash, we'll always be looking out for you."

Ash was snapped out of his reverie when Pikachu nudged him, and pointed to his Pidgeot carrying a mail addressed to him.

"Ah…Opps." He took the letter and read it.

Dear Red Satoshi,

There is a tournament coming up called the Pokémon World Championship. It is held in the PAL Battle Arena to decide who the best among the best is, and I believe you are more than capable of winning the tournament. Your invitation has been attached to this message. Please hand your invitation in three days' time to the PAL Pokémon Centre near the Battle Arena if you wish to participate.

Yours sincerely,

Phlox DeLaurentis

Manager of the PAL Elite Four

P.S: Glad to know you're still alive, Ash. You were incredibly hard to track down. Congrats on being the PAL Champion, and hope to see you there. By the way, all your so-called friends are there so stay calm and don't give in to your hate –Scott.

P.P.S: You better show up to the tournament or else I'm going to sic my men on you, and drag you there. You must participate in this tournament. Don't let those traitors get to you. –Charles Goodshow.

P.P.P.S: You better arrive by tomorrow morning. You and your Elite are going to organize the opening ceremonies. I'll drag you there myself with Charles if you don't show up. –Phlox.

Lucario, who has been looking over his shoulder to read the letter, broke the silence by asking, "So are you going?" he asked.

Ash nodded. "Of course! But first…" He sent a print message to his four Elites via his CommuniDex, who were out doing god-knows-what.

"Nothing like a late night swim to take my mind off things." A boy with black hair and amber eyes commented. He dived off the dive board that is 10 meters above the swimming pool, and somersaulted into the pool, executing a beautiful jack-knife.

This is Jude Harrison, a Water/Dark Specialist, and the first member of the Elite. He is a Sea Hunter, whose job is to hunt in seas for animals and treasures. He is the best at swimming among the four of them. He is currently wearing swimming trunks.

Just as he swam up to the surface, his CommuniDex rang, signalling a new message. Jude groaned, and pressed a button to read the message. He widened his eyes at the message.

"Change of plans. I'm going back to the Plateau." He told himself, as he dried himself, got dressed in his standard outfit which consists of blue shirt with black jacket and a black jeans and called out his Mantine. "Mantine, we're going back to the Plateau." Mantine nodded, and they shot off towards the Plateau.

A girl with black hair with hot pink highlights, black eyes as dark as midnight, and wearing her usual outfit- red top with a magenta jacket and a white and pink skirt, with hot pink boots was trying to crack a mysterious case where two boys went missing, and their backpacks and Pokémon were left behind. She spun her pen, and crossed out another locations where she had searched earlier today.

She is Rosaline Pyra, the second member challengers have to face in the Elite, the Fire/Psychic specialist of the Elite Four. She is a Crime Hunter, whose job is to crack mysterious cases around the world.

"I think I'll look into the places where Psychic powers are blocked." She said. "If they were kidnapped, a kidnapper would try to take them somewhere where Psychics can't locate them. Maybe I'll ask Pakura to help with this one."

Just then, her CommuniDex rang, and she read the print message sent by Ash.

"Alright, I'll ask her later. For now, I'll go back to the Plateau." With that, she summoned her Shiny Moltres, and flew back to the Plateau.

"Alright, let's see." Another boy, a year or two older than Ash, was assembling what looked like machine parts together. He had brown hair and baby blue eyes. He was wearing a simple white T-shirt with a light blue vest, with dark brown jeans. He was also wearing a belt which kept his standard six Pokeballs. "If I put these together, the electrical current would flow continuously without burning out the minuscule copper wire." He used a drill to put the said machine parts in place.

This is Philip Robinson, a Steel/Electric Specialist, and the third member of the Elite. He is great at technology and inventing things, which is why most people call him "Genius Inventor". He was the one that helped replicate the CommuniDex for the other members of the Elite at Ash's request. He is an Information Hunter, whose job is to go to great lengths to uncover rare or hidden bits of information. Common activities for Information Hunters include searching for rare books, hacking to retrieve protected data, and tracking down people who know desired facts.

"All done!" He said happily, before his CommuniDex rang.

He opened the message, and widened his eyes.

"Ok, back to the Plateau I go!" He summoned his Skarmory and flew towards the Plateau.

A girl, who looked like she is in her late teens or early twenties, was chasing down a man. The man is running frantically for his life. He suddenly screeched to a stop as he ran into a dead end in a dark alley, and knew he was cornered.

"S-Spare me." He stuttered.

The girl stepped out of the shadows, allowing the moonlight to illuminate her features. She had ebony black hair and amethyst eyes and high cheekbones. Her soft pink lips were curled up in disdain, and her eyes were currently emotionless.

She is Pakura Ameyuri, the Ice/Fairy Specialist and the Leader of the Elite. She is currently wearing an outfit that is entirely black to allow her to hide in the shadows, and clutching to a knife. She is a Blacklist Hunter, her job is to track down dangerous and wanted criminals, and kill them if she must.

"Now why should I spare you?" she sneered. "You abuse Pokémon and even try to escape the law. Why do you think they sent me after you? I'm supposed to kill you."

The man lunged at her, and she side stepped him, and pinned him against the wall.

"Enjoy your time in hell." She smirked, before plunging her knife in his chest. She watched impassively as he slowly expired.

She shook her head as she cleaned her knife with a cloth. "They really don't remember I never miss my target."

Her CommuniDex rang, and when she saw the message, she summoned her Togekiss and flew towards the Plateau.

"Alright, everyone, I got an invite to the Pokémon World Championships." Ash was addressing his Pokémon. His old Pokémon consists of Pikachu, Venusaur, Charizard, Meganium, Fereligator, Blastoise, Typhlosion, Snorlax, Kingler, Muk, Heracross, Noctowl, Crawdaunt, Swellow, Pidgeot, Butterfree, Glalie, Garchomp, Seperior, Scrafty, Lapras, Gengar, Sceptile, Torterra, Emboar, Samurott, Krookodile, Leavanny, Gigalith, Seismitoad, Infernape, Floatzel, Unfezant, Gliscor, and Tauros.

And then, of course, there are his Legendries.

There's also the new Pokémon he caught (read: he saved them, and they followed him until he agreed to catch them). Gardevior, Lucario, Zororak, all the Eeveelutions, Roserade, Spiritomb, Mismagius, Gyarados, Salamence, Togekiss, Xatu.

And then there's the defected Pokémon, who got attached to his Elite members as they spent time with them. May's Skitty, Blaziken, and Glaceon, Iris' Axew and Emolga, Dawn's Pachirisu, Piplup and Buneary, and Misty's Corsola. Skitty, Glaceon, and Axew went to Pakura, Pachirisu and Emolga went to Phillip, Piplup and Corsola went to Jude, and Blaziken went to Rosaline. He kept Buneary, because it wants to be by Pikachu's side.

"Hey Ash." Mewtwo said, interrupting his aura training.

"What is it, Mewtwo?" Ash sighed, deactivating his Aura Levitation and landing on the ground.

"Do you remember May's Skitty, Blaziken, Glaceon, Iris' Axew and Emolga, Dawn's Pachirisu, Piplup and Buneary, and Misty's Corsola?" he asked. Ash darkened at the mention of his former friends' names.

"What about them?" he asked evenly, trying not to show his anger.

"Well, it seems like they do not agree with what the traitors said, and wished to join you and your friends in your quest when I told them your current location."

"Yeah, sure." Ash said sarcastically. "And why would I believe them?"

Mewtwo silently handed him the remains of the Pokeballs. "They smashed these themselves, saying they do not want to be with their trainers anymore."

Ash knew Mewtwo is not lying, since he's a Legendary Psychic Pokémon and know what Pokémon are actually thinking.

"Fine, bring them in." he said. "I'll see what they have to say."

When he teleported back to him, the Pokémon immediately got him into a group hug.

"Ash! It's good to see you again!" Skitty said. "I finally can see you again, after enduring that traitor of a trainer! We've been waiting and waiting for you to come and take us away!"

"Yeah, she's so arrogant she hasn't been winning any Grand festival, and we're tired of her boasting she'll be upgraded the Queen of Hoenn!" Glaceon remarked. "Why didn't the day care worker give my egg to you?"

"That wanabe of a Water Master is so narrow-minded. Strength doesn't come from how powerful a Pokémon is, it comes from the trainer's heart!" Corsola said.

"I'm not going to let Pikachu out of my grasp this time!" Buneary declared. "He's more important to me than Dawn!"

"Yeah I know, I'm not going to hear Iris saying for the millionth time how she'll be better than Lance someday." Axew rolled his eyes.

"I spent a lot of time with May, but even I think she's changed, and not for the better." Blaziken remarked.

"If she wants to be a Dragon Master, she would catch dragons, not just any cute Pokémon." Emolga commented. "And I'm not going to let her discriminate you. You are a great trainer. Why can't she see that?"

"I know. Dawn can't see that either. I've travelled with you, and I think you are good!" Piplup said.

Pachirisu hopped on Ash's shoulder. "Yeah, she even needed help from you to catch me, and she repaid this by insulting you? How dare she!"

"Can we join you and your Elite, Ash?" they asked in unison.

Ash knew they were telling the truth, using his psychic powers, and it's not just sweet talk.

"Sure, why not?" he shrugged. The next moment, they pounced onto him for a group hug.

"I'm going to go to attend the Pokémon World Championship, and you all will be coming with me. They will be there too, so we'll show them what we're made of." All his Pokémon cheered at the prospect of showing the traitors what he is really capable of.

"Hey, Ash!" Rosaline called out to him. "We're here!"

Ash went to the rooftop to greet the four members of his Elite, as they dismounted from their Pokémon.

"So you finally got your invite?" Jude said. "About time."

"Yeah, it took them quite a while to find out the fact that there's a Champion in PAL, and you know how secretive we can be." Ash replied.

"So, we'll leave now?" Jude asked.

Ash nodded. "Yes, now. We arrive to the Arena in the morning, since it's most likely all of us are to welcome the participants."

"Alright, let's get going." Ash said to his Elite Four.

"Skarmory/ Moltres/ Mantine/Togekiss/Charizard, let's fly!" Phillip, Rosaline, Jude, Pakura and Ash all shouted in unison.

And with that their mighty flying Pokémon took off, leaving their home behind for the Battle Arena.

"Hey, Ash, what are you going to do when you see them?" Rosaline asked.

Ash shrugged. "I'm angry, but I guess I'll just try to hold in my anger." Then the five of them looked on ahead as their Pokémon increased the speed towards the night clouds.

I already am the very best,

(Ash's Pikachu defeating Pakura's Sylveon and being crowned Champion)

Like no one ever was.

(Ash using his Aura to defend himself against all the villainous team leaders)

To prove to them is my real quest,

(Ash and Pikachu confronting his former friends in Pallet Town)

To protect them is my cause.

(Ash protecting his Elite from Team Rocket, Magma, Aqua, Galactic and Plasma)

I will do what I must do,

(Pikachu saving Jude from a knife attack)

Fighting for my rights.

(Ash fighting a shadowy figure with his Charizard)

Each Elite to understand

(The PAL Elite Four standing in a pose)

The power that they have

(Ash's Elite Four showing off their abilities)

PAL! It's you and me

(Ash and Pikachu standing over a mountain that overlooked PAL)

I know it's my destiny

(Ash accepting the task Arceus assigned to him)

Elite Four, oh, you're my best friends

(Ash's Elite Four all nodding at him, saying that they got his back)

In a world we must defend

(The Elite Four surrounded by the villainous teams' grunts, and they prepared a defensive stance)

Chosen One, a heart so true

(The Legendaries all smiling at Ash)

Our courage will pull us through

(Ash and Pikachu managing to defeat Cyrus), (Jude trying and managing to save Philip from drowning in the river), (Phillip using his ability to set a trap for the Team Magma grunts), (Rosaline managing to evade a fatal attack), (Pakura taking an unknown person's offered hand with a determined expression)

You teach me and I'll teach you

(Pakura teaching Ash hand-to-hand and weapon combat), (Ash teaching Pakura battling strategies)

(P-A-L) Gotta protect them all

(All the regions Elites, Champions, with the PAL Elite Four posing together)

PAL!

(Ash running past everyone, and jumping towards the sky with Pikachu)

"Alright, we're here." Jude said as they landed in front of their destination just as the sun rose, and they were greeted by the League Officials, Jessie and James, former members of Team Rocket.

"Look, it's Moltres!" James gushed, pointing at the Shiny Moltres that Rosaline dismounted from. "And a Shiny one at that! Rosaline, can I please touch it?" he begged the owner, eyes sparkling.

Jessie then whacked him on the head. "Stop being so childish, James." She chided, while everyone laughed, except for Pakura. Pakura shot everyone an annoyed look, shutting them up.

"Yeah, we're not going to steal it anyway, so quit playing!" said a certain talking Meowth.

"Alright, alright." said James, trying to pacify them. "We should tell them the details."

"Yeah." Jessie gave a cough and changed to her official business-like tone. "All of you are to register at the Pokémon Center for the tournament. The opening ceremonies and the tournament starts in three days' time."

"As for your rooms, instead of staying at the hotel with the other normal participants, you guys will be staying at a tower connected to the Battle Arena along with the other region Gym Leaders, Elite Fours and Champions." said James. "After that, Charles Goodshow requests you and your Elite to meet him at the Ballroom, something about a briefing and some spoilers."

The Battle Arena has a tower designed exclusively for the Gym Leaders, Elite Four and the Champions of the regions, mainly to keep them safe away from the paparazzi. This will be their home until the tournament ends. Each region has two entire floors (except for PAL since they don't have Gym Leaders). They just simply step on an elevator and press the number the League Officials told them. Easy enough to remember.

The walls of the elevator are made of crystal so that they can watch the people on the ground floor shrink to ants as they shoot up into the air.

Each of them were given their own rooms which consist of a bedroom, a dressing area, and private bathroom with hot and cold running water. There are also so many automatic gadgets that Ash was sure he won't have time to press all the buttons. The shower alone has a panel with more than a hundred options he can choose regulating water temperature, pressure, soaps, shampoos, scents, oils and massaging sponges. When a person steps out on a mat, heaters come on that blow dry his body. Instead of struggling with knots in wet hair, one can just place his hand on a box that sends a current through his scalp, untangling, parting, and drying his hair almost instantly.

There is also a closet full of clothing designed to fit any taste, the windows zoom in and out on parts of the region at his command. He only needs to whisper a type of food from a gigantic menu into a mouthpiece and it appears, hot and steamy, before him in less than a minute.

There is also a desk, TV and computer with fast Internet Connection. There is also a place where you can place all your Pokeballs.

When James, Jessie and Meowth directed Ash to his room, Jessie started ranting about rude twerps, especially Misty, since she has become so stuck up she thought Misty had a stick up her ass. James was also pissed off at Brock. From what they said, he learnt that Gary, Paul, Tracey and Professor Oak are here, though only Gary and Paul are here to participate in the tournament. They told him they had duties to do, before leaving him in his room.

Ash shrugged. He would find Gary and Paul, but he has duties to do as the Champion of the host region. Maybe he would find them after he has registered. With that in mind, he put on a hood that he had, and going down to the Pokémon Center with his Elite to register. His Elite gave him strange looks but did not say anything.

"Alright, good luck to all of you." The nurse said, as they registered for the tournament. As they registered, Ash heard a voice he never want to hear again.

"Max, slow down, the tournament isn't going to go away." said a certain brunette co-ordinator.

"No, I've got to register quickly so I can get to my training and book the best rooms in the hotel." A bespectacled kid answered.

The Elite members looked at each other. Jude even took Pikachu off Ash's shoulder in case they recognize him using that Pikachu.

"Is he one of them?" asked Jude, as Pikachu hopped onto his shoulder.

Ash silently nodded.

"Let's go, then." Phillip said. "Before your secret is out."

As they made their way back out, unfortunately, Max bumped into Ash.

"Hey! What do you bump into me for, apologize!" Max demanded. Only to be confronted by four angry Elites. Well three Elites were clearly angry. The fourth had her face hidden by her hair.

"Stop shouting at our friend like that!" Jude snapped. "You were the one that bumped into him, not the other way round! If anything, you should apologize to him!"

"Still, he needs to watch where he's going!" said May. "If he didn't, Max wouldn't bump into him!"

Brock, meanwhile, decided to flirt with Rosaline. "Oh, our meeting must be arranged by fate! Such a cute thing like you should go out with a manly person like- AUGH!" At that point, Rosaline snapped her fingers, and Brock's hair caught fire, and he was running around trying to douse it. A while later, Rosaline then snapped her fingers again, and the fire went off. Brock collapsed to the ground clutching to his injured scalp.

"You just used your ability, didn't you?" Jude whispered.

Rosaline nodded. "He deserves it."

"Apologize!" Max was still shouting at Ash, who was ignoring him. "Or I'll kick your ass in a battle!" Only to hear the other Elites (except Pakura) laugh at him. But even she had a hidden smirk on her face.

"There's no way you can beat Red." Rosaline said.

"A kid like you has no chance at all." Jude said.

"Yeah, you'll be flattened in five minutes flat." Phillip said.

"…" Pakura simply looked at Max in disdain.

"We'll see." Max growled.

"Not interested." Ash replied. "Let's go, guys." The Elite nodded, and followed Ash.

"Knew you were weak." Misty said, interrupting their way out.

That ticked Ash off. "Fine, if it's a battle you want, a battle you shall have! Let's get this over and done with."

They found an empty battlefield with Jude as the referee.

"This will be a three on three battle between Red Satoshi and Max Maple. Substitutions are not allowed. The match ends when one side is out of Pokémon. Trainers, choose your Pokémon!"

"Mightyena, I choose you!" Max said, as he sent out a Mightyena, who growled at Ash.

"Xatu, lend me your aura!" Ash asked the Psychic Mystic Pokémon.

"Ha, you're pretty stupid! Dark Pokémon is immune to Psychic Pokémon!" Max shouted. "This will be easy."

"Why would he send a Psychic type Pokémon against a Dark type?" Rosaline asked the other Elites.

"He'll win even if that Mightyena's immune to psychic moves." said Phillip. "Just watch."

"That's right." said Pikachu.

Pakura said nothing.

"Alright, Mightyena, let's start this off with Toxic attack!" Max commanded.

"Take it." Ash said. The toxic badly poisoned Xatu.

"Perfect. Now use Crunch!" Max cried.

"Dodge and use Miracle Eye!" Ash told his Xatu.

Xatu jumped up, and his eye sparkled as it stared at Mightyena.

"What kind of move is that? It didn't even affect my Mightyena one bit." Max sneered.

"Now use Psycho Shift!" Ash shouted out.

"Ha! It won't even affect my Mightyena one bit. Take it!" Max asked his Pokémon to take it to prove that it won't affect his Pokémon. Surprisingly, his Pokémon glowed purple, indicating it is badly poisoned.

"What? How?" he demanded.

"Miracle Eye removes a Dark-type Pokémon's immunity to Psychic-type attacks. Which means, your Mightyena can be attacked by Psychic moves now." Ash explained. "Surely a smart aleck like you would know."

"You…That's why you asked Xatu to take the Toxic attack!" Max accused.

Ash smirked, and nodded. "That's right. Now, finish it off with Dazzling Gleam!"

There was a sudden powerful flash that made those watching the match cover their eyes. When the light died down, Mightyena was down with swirls in its eyes.

"Mightyena is unable to battle, Xatu wins!" Jude announced. "Trainer, send your next Pokémon."

"Gallade, I choose you!" he sent out the same Ralts he had befriended only this time he had evolved to one of his final forms, Gallade.

"Gallade, Close Combat! Let's finish this bird off!" Max shouted.

"Xatu, fly up high to dodge it!" Ash said calmly.

Xatu used its wings to fly up high, dodging Gallade's barrage of punches and kicks.

"Now, Xatu, Aerial Ace!"

"Dodge it!" Max shouted.

Ash calmly said, "While it's dodging, use Aerial Ace again." This time, it hit Gallade, and since it's part fighting, the move was super effective, knocking it out in one hit.

"Gallade is unable to battle, Xatu wins. Trainer, send out your last Pokémon."

Max got angry, and sent out his last Pokémon. A Banette appeared.

"Banette, use Shadow Ball!" Max cried out. Banette created a black ball in front of its mouth and fires it at the Xatu.

"Xatu, use Ominous Wind to blow the Shadow Ball back to it!" Ash said.

"Dodge it, Banette!" Banette dodged it, but that was what Ash is waiting for.

"Xatu, get behind Banette using teleport and use Confuse Ray!" Ash said. It hit Banette dead on, and Banette is confused.

"While it is confused, use Psyshock!" The Psyshock fainted the Banette instantly.

"Banette is unable to battle, Xatu wins!" Jude announced. "The winner of this match is Red Satoshi."

"Come on guys, let's go." Ash said, as the Elite turned, and silently followed him, Jude returning his Pikachu once they are out of sight.

"I still don't get why Charles Goodshow wants to see us." Jude said, as they made their way to the ballroom that was located in the Plaza Hotel.

Ash shrugged. "We'll find out soon enough."

The ballroom is a high ceilinged elegant room decorated with a tasteful crystal chandelier shone bright lights that reflected off the highly polished floors and decorations, making the ballroom rather sparkly. In the middle of the ballroom there was a long table covered by a white table cloth with laces and a single red line near the bottom. There were cloth covered chairs as well with cushions to be more comfortable. Along the walls were tables filled with various food and drinks, buffet style. Standing around the food table or sitting down on the table in the middle were the Elite Four and Champions of the five regions.

Ash opened the door, and they went in without being noticed by anyone, since they were too busy talking to each other.

Except for Charles Goodshow.

"Ah, Ash, my boy!" he came over to greet Ash and his Elite.

"Hello, Mr. Goodshow." He smiled at Charles.

"Good to see you and your Elite. We are just having a little social gathering, before we have a briefing. Just go ahead and enjoy yourselves for a while, maybe talk to the others"

"Ok." The PAL Elite nodded, and went to get some food for themselves. They were hungry anyway, since they haven't eaten breakfast.

Meanwhile at the table, Lorelei was looking at a PAL leaflet. "According to this, the PAL Elite is made up of these four, according to ranking, starting from the lowest: Jude Harrison, Rosaline Pyra, Phillip Robinson, and Pakura Ameyuri, with Pakura being the Leader of the Elite. There's no info on the Champion, only the fact that he was crowned Champion two years ago." She was talking to her fellow Elites. "There are no Gym Leaders at all, only Elites. If one wants to take the Elite challenge, they are required to win all the 12 parts of the fur symbols of their Battle Frontier, and then win the Trainers Tournament. Also, they need six Pokémon, as all battles are six-on-six, though they are allowed to rest It says here they have separate rooms."

"Then how does it work, if they have a Leader of the Elite? The Leader must be the strongest among them." Bruno said.

"Well, according to the pamphlet, you need to defeat one Elite at a time to unlock the next door. In the beginning when trainers first enter, all doors are locked except for Jude's. After he is defeated, the next door gets unlocked and the same goes for the third. Pakura is the last to be challenged." Lorelei read from the pamphlet. "Each Elite has his or her own distinct door, unlike Unova, which all of them has the same door, although they can be challenged in any order."

Lance took the pamphlet. "It says here that Jude is famous for being a supermodel and an S-Class Pokémon Connoisseur, Rosaline is famous for her Mahou Shoujo manga writing and she's a Pokemon history expert, Phillip's famous for his inventions, he can invent loads of stuff the world hasn't even thought about, and Pakura's famous for being a Top Coordinator."

"What else does it say?" Agatha asked.

"It says that PAL Elites is well known to specialize in two types. I don't know what types they specialize in. It doesn't say here." Steven frowned. (A/N: Because Kanto's Champion in the Games is your rival, in the anime, they technically don't have a Champion, so I'll put Steven as Kanto's Champion while Wallace is the Hoenn Champion.)

"If you must know, I specialize in Water/Dark. Mainly Water though." They jumped and turned, only to see Jude smiling at them. He was holding on to a toast.

"Who are you?" Bruno asked.

"Jude Harrison. I'm surprised you didn't notice us come in the ballroom. Then again, you guys were too busy talking to each other." He bit on his toast.

"Hi, nice to meet you, Jude!" The Elite members smiled at him. So this is the first member of the PAL Elite. The boy had black hair with smooth bangs brushed to the side with wide amber eyes that was filled with mischief. Pale skin and soft lips that oozes out the desire to be kissed. He had a slight muscular build and is fairly tall. He was rather cute looking. He was one example of a pretty boy.

Jude smiled back. "Yeah, nice to meet you guys too. You guys are the Kanto Elite, right?"

"How do you know?" Lorelei asked surprised.

"You guys are known even in this region." Jude shrugged.

"Really?" Bruno asked.

"No, I'm lying." Jude said playfully. "Of course! One of the fellow Elite told us about you. Apparently, the Elite met you before."

"What? Who?" Lance asked.

"Sorry can't tell ya." Jude said, winking, making the female Elite members blush.

"So, tell us more about this Elite of yours." Steven said.

"Hmm….I'll just tell you this: all of us have our titles. Nicknames, you know. For instance, they call me the Merman. Also, we also have jobs outside besides being an Elite. I mean, we all think we should do something else to be useful to the society besides being an image to our region. It gets boring after a while, being an Elite, and staying at one place, don't you think?" The others nodded at his statement.

"So, you guys have a life outside of being an Elite?" Lorelei asked.

"Yeah, I mean, no one ever gets past me when they took the challenge, except for our Champion, and that was like 2 years ago. It's boring for the other Elites too, so we go outside our Plateau and travel around and do other stuff, like participating in events and doing contests, helping to solve mysteries, hunting for treasures, inventing things, stuff like that."

"So tell us more about your Champion." Lance requested.

Jude shrugged. "He was so strong that he was the only one to be able to defeat all of us, we were surprised that our Leader got defeated, although she somehow did manage to get him to use all six of his Pokémon. He only used at most four when he reached Phillip. He used only two against me and Rosaline."

"Wow…." Steven said in awe.

Jude finished his toast. "You know, I'm gonna get more food now, and maybe grab some coffee. We are tired from the late night Poké-flight here. I'll see you later." With that he sauntered off to get more breakfast.

"I'm getting more breakfast too." Bruno said, getting up.

"Me too." Lance mumbled, and he left the table as well.

"Charles really outdone himself. Breakfast today is rather extravagant." Bruno said, gobbling on the scrambled eggs. "How does he afford all these?"

"Hey, save some for the others, won't you?" Karen frowned at him. "You're not the only one wanting to eat, you know."

"Yeah, we need to eat too you know." Will glared at him. "I was looking forward to the scrambled eggs."

Koga stayed silent, while Lance just shook his head. Bruno always eats lots of food, saying he needs the energy for training. There's no way he'll cut down the amount of food he takes in.

Just then, Drake appeared. "Hey, Lance, have you heard about the Legendary Dragon Duo?"

"You mean the world famous Dragon Duo that every Dragon user dreams to battle someday? Yes I heard of them. It's the one where it consists of two people, a boy and a girl, that is said to be able to tame even the wildest Dragon Pokémon. Individually, they were given the title Dragon Prince and the Dragon Princess. They are said to know the hearts of the dragons and have the ability soothe their hatred if any. They can also fully utilize their potential, and they have the gift to be able to summon Dragon Pokémon for help. They can also very fluent in the dragon language, being able to understand what Dragon Pokémon are speaking and write in said language. They are said to have powers that can match the most powerful Dragon Pokémon."

Drake nodded. "I was talking to Charles earlier, and he told me about them. Apparently, this is their home region."

"I definitely would like to meet them." Lance replied.

"That's the thing. They vanished into thin air five years ago, just like that Ash boy you mentioned." Drake sighed. "There were rumours they were going to get married and they were lovers, since they were so close, but something happened and they suddenly disappeared!"

"They….disappeared?" Lance widened his eyes. "Like Ash?"

"Yeah I'm just telling you because they originated from this region." Drake said. "Oh well, I'm going to talk to my fellow Elites now, later!" With that, he left.

'Disappeared, huh?' Lance thought. 'What if the PAL Elite has something to do with both disappearances?'

"Alright, sorry." Bruno said, apologizing for taking all the food. He turned his attention to a rainbow cake with chocolate layer. "Oh, it's the last slice! I get dibs!" he shot out a hand to take it, but a delicate hand was faster, and snatched up the cake in the split second.

Bruno turned to glare at the owner of the said hand, but his glare died when it met amethyst eyes. She could be considered beautiful with her shiny black hair that is rippling in the slight breeze from the air-con and glossy pink lips. She also has a voluptuous figure. She is staring at them while nibbling at the cake she had taken, after removing the protective plastic around it.

"Oh My God, she's beautiful!" Will said. Bruno dumbly nodded.

"Hey, I'm Karen, nice to meet you!" Karen smiled at her. Instead of smiling or greeting back, the girl stayed silent, and looked rather wary. She just gave a curt nod after a while.

"Are you one of the PAL Elite?" Will asked eagerly. Pakura gave a single nod.

"What's your name?" Karen asked.

Pakura stayed silent for a long while, chewing her cake, before saying quietly, "They call me Pakura."

"Pakura?" Bruno said, remembering the name from the pamphlet. Wasn't she the Leader of the Elite?

Pakura finally finished her cake and said, "I'm going somewhere else. Later."

"So soon?" Lance asked her. "Why not stay a little longer and chat with us?"

Pakura shook her head, and left quickly before they could say anything else.

Sitting at one of the chairs at the main table was Phillip Robinson. He was eating and at the same time, making a rough design for his new invention with the laptop he had brought along. He had made sure to sit somewhere where others would not really notice, so that he could have his peace.

He deleted yet another one of the parts he designed for the zillionth time. "This is not the one that I envisioned!" He said to himself in frustration. "It's missing something, but what is it?" He nearly tore his hair in aggravation.

"Something wrong?" A voice asked.

Phillip looked up, opening his mouth to snap at the person for disturbing his work, thinking it's one of his fellow Elite, Jude, but he was wrong. Standing there was five people, all of them smiling at him.

"No, it's nothing." Phillip looked back down on his laptop, only to hear chairs scraping around him. The people sat around him, and tried to bring him into conversation.

Phillip sighed, and closed his laptop. He'll just have to do this later.

"So, are you one of the PAL Elite?" A girl with short black hair and blue eyes, with 2 red flowers that cover the sides of her head asked him.

"Yeah, I am. I'm Phillip Robinson." Phillip introduced himself.

"Hi, I'm Phoebe! I specialize in Ghost type Pokémon" the girl with 2 red flowers on her hair introduced herself.

"I'm Glacia, Ice type." A blonde haired girl introduced herself.

"I'm Sidney, a Dark type." A slightly bald man with one patch a purple hair that sticks upright said.

"I'm Drake, a Dragon type." A man wearing what looked like a ship captain's hat said.

"And I'm Wallace, Champion of Hoenn, and a Water type." Wallace introduced himself.

"So, tell us more about yourself." Phoebe asked.

"I'm the third member you have to face if you take the challenge, and I'm a Steel/Electric specialist." Phillip shrugged. "My nickname is the Genius Inventor."

"Wow, you must be strong, if you are the third member! I mean, no one who took the PAL Elite challenge got past even the first member!"

"Not really." Phillip said dryly. "Our Champion did. He's the first person that defeated all four of us, although only our Leader managed to force him to use all six of his Pokémon." He suddenly stood up. "I'm going to get some more food."

"I'll join you." Wallace and Phoebe stood up, and followed Phillip. They chatted their way to the table, mainly talking about Phillip's new invention, a better version of the binoculars, called the "Grandiculars", where you can replay action, slow everything down, and they flash up a play-by-play breakdown if you need it. Perfect while you watch a match since you'll know what exactly is going on as it has X-ray features that can see through smoke and explosions and attacks.

Cynthia sighed. This breakfast gathering is rather in a happy mood. She hadn't been in a happy mood since a certain cap wearing boy with a Pikachu vanished off the face of the Earth. She was standing in a corner, stewing in her own thoughts.

"Where's Ash?" Cynthia, the Sinnoh Champion, has been looking for him all over, but no luck. She was confronting his friends, since they are close to him, and she believed they might know where he had went.

"Why would you be looking for that loser?" Brock sneered. "Why waste your time with him when you can have me?" he tried to take her hand but she smacked him away.

"Where is he?" she repeated herself.

"Who knows? He disappeared with all his Pokémon and never returned. Good riddance too, we were about to get rid of him anyway." Iris shrugged, smirking.

"He might be dead for all we care." Misty said.

Cynthia was livid. How dare they do that to him!

"How could you? He helped you countless times, and saved your lives, without asking anything in return! How could you just plan to hurt him and get rid of him, and forget all he has done for you?"

"You can go look for him yourself if you want, we don't know where he went, and we could care less." Dawn said indifferently.

Cynthia gave them one last glare and strode off.

'I'll find you Ash. I'll find you, and make sure you never leave me again.' She vowed to herself.

"Earth to Cynthia!" Aaron shouted in her ear. Cynthia was jolted out of her memories

Bertha frowned at her. "Don't tell me you are still thinking about the Ash Ketchum boy. It's been like four years since he disappeared."

"He did not disappear!" Cynthia hissed. "It was those traitor friends of his who caused this to happen! And how could I, when…" She took a step back, only to step on a foot.

"Oh, sorry-" Cynthia looked up to see a hooded person with a Lucario by his side.

Inside the hood, Ash gulped. All he was doing was getting some food (and a lot of food it was too), and he was reaching for the chocolate éclair near the Sinnoh Elite, when someone suddenly stepped on his foot, causing him to nearly drop his éclair. When he looked up, he saw the Sinnoh Champion. He felt a slight regret for not telling her how he had felt about her before he ran away, but he must put up a show.

"You ok, Master?" Lucario asked him.

"Are you alright, Ash?" Pikachu asked from his hidden position in his cloak.

Ash gave Lucario and Pikachu a very slight nod. He has a role to play.

"Oh no, it's ok, Miss-" He pretended not to know her name.

"Cynthia." Cynthia introduced herself. "What's your name?"

"Red Satoshi." Ash replied shortly. "I'm the Champion of the PAL region."

"Oh, so you're the famous Champion? The most powerful Pokémon Master?" Flint asked eagerly. "The one that was nicknamed Silent Hero?"

"Yeah…" Ash was a bit cautious as he said this. Where was this going?

"Please, can you tell us if a boy called Ash Ketchum has been in this region?" Cynthia pleaded. He must be somewhere, and if he wasn't seen in all the other regions, he must be somewhere in this region. "I've been looking everywhere for him, and it turned out nothing!"

Ash frowned. Why would Cynthia go so far to find him?

"You really need to get over this crush on him." Aaron shook his head. "It's been four years already!"

"Aaron!" Lucian smacked his head with his book. "That's not nice!"

"Alright, sorry." Aaron said.

Ash gaped, not that anyone could see it. Cynthia likes him too? As much as he would like to tell her, however, he still needed to keep a show. But maybe, maybe he could give her some clue, to give her hope that she has a chance to find him.

"Yeah, he is in this region." Ash said. This catches Cynthia's attention.

"Have you seen him?" Cynthia asked hopefully.

"I have. However, he told me not to tell you anything, other than the fact that he's participating in this tournament."

"Thank you." Cynthia said, smiling. Now there's a huge chance of finding him, and possibly make him hers.

Ash waved the thanks off. "No problem."

"So, tell us more about your Elite." Aaron said eagerly.

"Uh….you see…"

Ash found himself bombarded with questions by the Sinnoh Elite, with no way to get out. He answered them to the best he could, without giving himself away. And all his Elite members are chatting with the other region Elites.

'This is going to take a while.' Ash thought with a groan.

'I think that's enough food for now.' Rosaline thought, as she looked at the plate that she had filled with food from going to different tables. She grabbed an orange juice, and looked for a seat at the main table. She looked around for her fellow Elites, hoping she could join one of them, but they were too far away from her, so she shrugged, and sat down alone somewhere near the end of the table, and began consuming her breakfast.

"Hey, mind if we join you?" A female's voice asked her. She looked up to see five people smiling down at her. The speaker was a female with short purple hair and glasses.

"Oh, sure." She smiled at them, as they sat down around her. "I'm Rosaline Pyra, nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too, Rosaline." A man with saffron and black hair with black eyes said.

"So, are you one of the PAL Elite?" A girl with huge blonde hair in a white hat and blue eyes asked her.

"Yeah." Rosaline nodded.

"Say." A guy with black spiked hair with matching eyes leaned close to Rosaline. His eyes were narrowed in such a way that gives him a mysterious air about him "You're a cute one. Do you have a boyfriend?"

"Grimsley!" The purple haired girl knocked his head. "It's rude to ask personal questions to someone we just met!"

The now identified Grimsley held his head. "You don't have to hit so hard, Shauntal."

"Er….no, it's ok." Rosaline said, sweatdropping.

"So, what's your speciality?" Shauntal asked.

"I'm a Fire/Psychic specialist."

"Oh, you're just like Caitlin then." Grimsley indicated the girl with the white hat. "She's a Psychic too."

"What types do the rest of you specialize in?" Rosaline asked.

"Dark." Grimsley said.

"Ghost." Shauntal replied.

"Fighting." Marshal said.

"I'm a Champion, so I don't have any speciality type." Alder shrugged.

"You must be strong to be able to be a PAL Elite member." Caitlin remarked.

"Oh no, I am not very strong. I'm actually the second member you have to face if you ever take our challenge." Rosaline shook her head. "I'm nothing compared to the Champion. Actually, I don't think I can even match the Leader."

"Tell us more." Alder requested.

"Champion Red is a very strong person. He's the only person so far to be able to get past Jude, and the first Champion of our region ever. All of us never lost our matches, until Red came along, and decimated us with his Pokémon. Even Pakura lost, although she was able to get him down to his last Pokémon. After her defeat, he was crowned Champion."

"Cool." Shauntal was awestruck at the Champion's power.

"It is." Rosaline nodded. "Also, the thing is, each one of us has something, a unique trait that makes us stand out from one another. We also have our own nicknames. For example, my nickname is Fire to Ice, because my fiery personality contrasts with Pakura's icy personality, and er…we were former travelling companions." She chuckled sheepishly. "Actually she doesn't even talk unless to give a command during Pokémon battles. I'm the opposite, I like to socialize with people, I like to talk a lot, and I'm like the polar opposite of her, thus my nickname."

"So is her nickname Ice to Fire?" Caitlin guessed.

"Oh no, it's not. Her nickname is something else altogether. In fact it is her title."

"So what is her nickname then?" Grimsley asked.

"It's for us to know and you to find out." Rosaline smiled, as she gulped down her orange juice.

After breakfast, Charles gathered everyone at the main table. "Alright, did everyone notice five new people coming in as you guys were socializing during breakfast?" Everyone nodded, as they have talked to least one of the PAL Elite.

"They are the PAL Elite, and they will be your hosts for this tournament!" Charles said. There were murmurs of excitement.

"So any questions you'll like to ask?" Charles asked.

"Er….what are their specialty?" Lorelei asked. "Besides Jude, since we know he's a Water/Dark."

"Rosaline is a Fire/Psychic." Shauntal informed her.

"Phillip's an Electric/Steel." Phoebe mentioned.

"And Pakura's…" Bruno trailed off. She didn't mention her type specialty.

He was interrupted by Wallace, however. "Oh My God! Pakura Ameyuri? It's so great to meet you up close!"

Pakura merely frowned at him.

"Something wrong, Wallace?" Steven asked.

"And I can't believe you are a PAL Elite member too!" Wallace exclaimed.

"What's wrong Wallace?" Steven practically shouted.

"Oh…sorry. You see, Pakura's a Top Coordinator just like me, but she's labelled as a legendary one."

"Like Dr. Abby?" Glacia asked. Dr. Abby was give the title of Legendary Coordinator in Hoenn for winning the region's Grand Festival in her first year with just her then-Skitty, but then retired right after that.

"No, Pakura's in a whole new level altogether. What made her stand out among the other Top Coordinators is that she is famous for winning five Grand Festivals in the five regions straight in a row, and having Master Rank victories in all categories, which makes it a total of 40 Ribbons she won in her region. Counting the Ribbons she has to win in order to enter the Grand Festival in the other regions that makes a total of 65 Ribbons she has won in a short span of five years, making her the best of the best. That's including the Aqua Ribbon she won at the Wallace Cup back in Johto. I watched her win without losing any points, not even in the finals!" Wallace explained to wide eyes.

"66, actually." Rosaline corrected him. "Including the Aqua Ribbon." She earned herself a glare from Pakura. Why can't she just shut her mouth?

"66 Ribbons!" Wallace said in alarm. "Why, I am a novice compared to her!"

Pakura glared at the stalker….er…Wallace. Why is this person a Coordinator too? She just wants to get this…gathering over and done with. That's why she hates going to gatherings. Somehow, something about you will get talked about. And being a coordinator doesn't matter, because this tournament is not a contest.

"Enough." Ash said coldly. "Weren't you asking about her type specialty?"

"Oh yeah." Rosaline said. "She's a Fairy/Ice type."

"Wait, what's a Fairy type?" Cynthia asked. They never heard of this type before.

Surprisingly, it was Ash (Red) who answered.

"Fairy-type Pokémon are mostly cute, pink or feminine in appearance, and can be really powerful. Fairy types also have some magical appeal to them. As opposed to Psychic-type Pokémon, Fairy-type Pokémon have powers related to magic and supernatural powers, instead of mind power." Ash explained. "Considered to be one of the best defensively, and very powerful offensively, as it is super effective to against Dragon, Fighting, and Dark, all of which were otherwise great types defensively."

"Looks like they're a force to be reckoned with." Lance mumbled, hearing the Dragon part.

"You got that right." Rosaline said. "They are immune to dragon-type moves."

"So basically, she's a dragon slayer…" Drake trailed off, looking at Pakura with unease.

"Yup!" Jude nodded.

"If I am going to battle her during the tournament, I'll probably lose." Lance muttered.

"Can you guys show us an example of a Fairy Pokémon?" Cynthia requested.

With encouragement from Lucario (and a hidden Pikachu), Ash took out his Pokéball, and threw it, releasing the Pokémon within. When the light cleared, a quadruped, mammalian Pokémon covered primarily in pale cream-colored fur with pinkish feet, ears, and tail was revealed. There are two bows on it, one on its left ear and one around its neck, from which two feelers adorn it. The bows are pale cream with pinkish centres, while the feelers are pale cream with pinkish and blue tips. It has short, slender legs and small paws with three visible toes on each foot. Its eyes are blue with white pupils and no visible sclera.

"Hi, everyone." The Pokémon said in a cute and calm manner, but all the other Elites (other than the PAL Elite and Ash) heard it as "Sylveon."

Everyone "ooh-ed" and "ahh-ed" at this Pokémon.

"Ohh…it's so cute!" Caitlin exclaimed. "Can I touch it?"

"Sure." Ash shrugged.

Caitlin walked over and petted Sylveon, and Sylveon affectionately wraps its ribbon-like feelers around Caitlin's arms, sending a soothing aura to Caitlin, which gave her a calm feeling.

The sheer cuteness of this Pokémon was enough to make even a certain Johto Champion to be tempted to pet it but restrained himself because he doesn't want to look like a softie in front of the other Elites, especially the PAL Elites. In fact, he had to grab his hand in order to prevent himself from petting Sylveon. The said temptation however, walked over to him and nudged him, whining to be petted.

"You can go on and pet Sylveon!" Rosaline said.

"No need to restrain yourself." Phillip said in amusement to Lance.

"Yeah, no one's gonna laugh!" Jude smiled.

"…" Pakura said nothing.

"Just pet it." Ash said. "Don't hurt its feelings."

Lance gave in, and started to pet Sylveon, which gave a purr of contentment, wrapped its feelers around his arm, giving him a calm feeling, and rubbed its head against his leg. Thankfully, no one said anything.

Sylveon went around to get petted by everyone.

"Not even Crasher Wake would be able to resist the cuteness." Ash commented, watching Sylveon get petted by Agatha.

"Does it evolve from any Pokémon?" Cynthia asked eagerly.

"It used to be an Eevee." Ash replied.

"So it's an Eeveelution?" Cynthia asked.

"It is." Rosaline said.

"So how can it evolve into this cute thing?" Grimsley asked, petting the Intertwining Pokémon.

"Let it learn a Fairy-type move and it must be affectionate toward you as an Eevee." Ash answered.

"Ohh…" Everyone said in awe.

"Alright, that's enough." Ash said. "Sylveon, return." He returned his Sylveon in a beam of red light.

"So, now we know their type specialty, shall we get down to business?" Charles asked, having watched the scene silently. Everyone agreed, and went to sit down on the main table.

"Alright, due to the huge number of participants, we are to have preliminary tag battles for the first three days. Each pair are to use six Pokémon; three for each trainer. You will know your partner on the day the tournament starts." Charles said. "You have to win against at least two other pairs to be able to get in the tournament round, and have three chances to do so. Pairs who win two rounds are automatically in the top 128 people."

"Usually, the Tag Battles last three days, but if you won both battles for the first two days, there would be no need to participate on the third day of tag battles. Which means, the third day of tag battles is a break for those who had won the first two days, since the third day is just another chance for the participants to get a spot in the Top 128."

Just then, Charles phone rang. He gave a "one-minute" sign to all Elites, as he talked on the phone, the Elites silent as they watched him. He hung up after a few short minutes.

"Oh, and also, Phlox has contacted me just now, saying all participants have registered, so the opening ceremonies is tonight instead of three days later, so PAL Elites, get the preparations ready by tonight. Phlox said you guys have planned it a long time ago, so there shouldn't be a problem."

"Alright, you guys are dismissed, have a nice day." Charles said, and the Elites all stood up and left.

"We should go prepare for the ceremony." Jude said to his fellow Elites.

They nodded, and went off together to prepare.

Later, Ash was dressed in what will either be the most sensational or deadliest costume among the five of them. He was wearing what looked like a simple black shirt with dark blue pants. He was also wearing a silver belt, and shiny black boots. His cape was simple as well. It was entirely black, giving him an unfathomable air about him. His fringe is also combed down to cover his eyes completely to add to the effect.

He had to wear the costume to reflect his nickname, since he doesn't have a type specialty, unlike his Elites. They had planned to wear costumes that reflects their type specialty, and make a good impression among the other participants and audience, since they are the Elite the other participants never heard of, and first impressions are always important. They planned to ride the chariot from the Battle Tower through the City circle back to the Battle Arena stage, where Rosaline, their emcee would give a welcoming speech.

"You look great Ash." Pikachu said.

"Thanks, Pikachu." Ash replied, before going to meet up with the other Elite members, and all of them (except Pakura) gaped at his costume.

"Wow, you look great!" Phillip said. He was wearing a glittery outfit decorated with pearls that catches the light around them, but there seem to have electric lights sewn to them, for what Ash thought was pearls was actually light sources. He was also wearing a headdress that mimicked the complex inner workings of electronics. The said headdress also have lights attached to it. He was also wearing silver shoes decorated with glitter.

"You too, Phillip." Ash smiled at him. "Nice outfit, Jude."

"Thanks." Jude was wearing what looked like a blue tunic that is tinted in black that represented waves' appearance at night with starfish pins on his shoulder and a dark seaweed crown that is decorated with black pearls. He was wearing turquoise shoes that has a shine to it. "You girls look amazing."

Rosaline smiled. She was wearing what looked like a magenta and red two-layered gown that had ruffles and spiked sleeves, complete with a pink scarf around her neck. She was wearing a magenta and red ballet flats with red 'spikes' at the side to resemble flames. On her hair was a small white tiara with a pink round gem in the centre, with flame shaped 'wings' protruding from its side.

Pakura is wearing a strapless gown that reached the floor that looked like she was standing in a pool of velvet. The gown was decorated with flowery lace at the top half, and at the bottom it was white with dark pink on the left side, and a slight light pink in front. The parts of the gown that reached the floor was alternated between pinkish lavender and white. At the middle of the part where top and bottom half of the gown were separated there was a flower shaped jewel made out of diamond. Her stylist also put her hair down, and added a light blue platinum tiara that was intertwined into a heart shape in the middle. In the heart shaped gap, there was a smaller sapphire diamond heart in the middle. To finish the outfit, she was wearing icy blue wings at her back. Her shoes couldn't be seen, and she lifted her gown enough to let them see she was wearing pink glittery flats complete with a dark blue ribbon in the front.

All their faces were relatively clear of makeup, just a bit of highlighting here and there. Probably to show their natural beauty.

"They are going to love us." said Phillip. The others (except Pakura) nodded in agreement.

They climbed into their own chariot, as every Elite has his or her own one which is pulled by 4 Rapidash. Pakura is going to go first, followed by Phillip, Rosaline, Jude, and finally, Ash. Ash hid his Pikachu in the chariot, and also sent out his Ho-oh to fly behind him, since it itself is to light up the torch. When all are in position, the music plays, and they started moving.

Meanwhile, the audience and participants were waiting to see what the PAL Elite is like. There were cameras all over the path on the way to the Battle Arena, and connected to the screen, where they will show the faces of the Elite. Some of the audience were seated around the City Circle, for there were so many people coming to witness this ceremony, to see the Elite themselves, there wasn't enough space in the Arena. All they knew about the Elite were their names. They wanted to see what they looked like, and guess their type specialty from their costumes.

The doors finally opened, and the audience cheered as they saw the Elite. Meanhile, the screen at the Battle Arena turned on as well.

"There they are! There they are! The PAL Elite!" Charles Goodshow announced, when the screen came on. "First up, is the Leader of the Elite, Pakura. She looks just dazzling in her outfit, the pink just compliments her eye colour. Don't you think?" The audience roared to show their agreement.

"Phillip looks just tech-savvy in his outfit. I like the lights in his costume. It reflects his specialty really well." Phlox said, as she watched Phillip's fans going crazy over his outfit.

"Rosaline's outfit just reflects the fiery spirit in her. I wouldn't want to cross her if her outfit says anything about her personality." Charles mock shuddered.

"I like Jude's theme in his outfit, and the little bit of black here and there to reflect the other type specialty of his." Phlox commented, as his fans threw rose water at him. "And…what's that? At the background?"

Ash is riding on his chariot, his cape billowing behind him, looking expressionless. The setting sun also shadowed his face, leaving his appearance as a mystery. Behind him was a magnificent bird with feathers are predominantly gold and red, with yellow tail-feathers, a white underside, and green feathers at the tip of its wings.

"Oh My God! Our Silent Hero, Champion Red!" Phlox said in ecstasy. "And is that a Ho-oh behind him?" The crowd's initial alarm quickly changed to shouts and cheers of "Champion Red!", "Silent Hero!", "Ho-oh!" Every head was turned their way, and the cameras were trained on them. Ash lifted his chin a bit higher, and gave a shy smile and waved at the audience, and everyone throws flowers at Ash's chariot. However, unlike the others, the number of roses was enough to completely cover the floor of the chariot.

"Champion Red! Champion Red! Champion Red!" His name was being called from all sides. Ash smiled 'bashfully' and waved at them, which gained favour from the audience. Who knows? He might need the public's support later.

The chariots finally reached the Battle Arena. The participants cheered as they saw the five chariots enter.

"Ho-oh, sacred fire in the torch!" Ash commanded. Ho-oh swept down, and released a gold-rose-coloured flame from its beak at the torch, igniting it, to cheers.

They finally stopped in front of the stage, and the five of them got off their chariots, Ash returning his Ho-oh with thanks, and walked towards the five seats reserved for them at the stage, in the midst of cheers.

"Now, we give the mic to the PAL's representative, the Fire to Ice, Rosaline Pyra!" Everyone clapped and cheered as the girl stood up, and made her way to the front.

"Thank you, Mr. Goodshow." Rosaline said. "Welcome, everyone, to the Pokémon World Championships. This year, we hold the tournament at the Pokémon's favourite paradise region, the PAL, short for Pokémon Awakens Love!" There were cheers and clapping from the participants. "Various participants come here from all regions, even the best from our regions participating, making this one of the largest tournaments and one of the most important one of the year!"

"I hope this tournament would be a great experience for each and every one of you, and hopefully maybe even get to know some friends! Do remember the rules and regulations, and make the best out of your time here. Do your best to win as well, because the winner would win a large sum of 1,000,000,000 Pokedollars in cash, a guarantee pass to unrivalled freedom to travel around the world, the title of strongest Pokémon Master, the ability to carry around all your Pokémon at the same time, and the diamond and gold encrusted trophy hand made by Phillip Robinson. Phillip, our Genius Inventor, has also generously offered some of his very own inventions as part of the prize!"

Everyone cheered as Phillip was well-known for his amazing inventions, and he never gives them to anyone. From where he was standing, Phillip waved at the audience.

"For us, it's a great honour to be here as well. I wish to see spectacular battles tomorrow, and hope to see cooperation between trainers should they be paired up together. Pairs would be known tomorrow before tournament starts, so for tonight, have a good rest, and thank you for coming!"

After the ceremonies, Ash returned to his quarters, ready to change and shower before dinner, when Mewtwo teleported in. He had let him out of the Pokeball earlier because he said he wanted some fresh air.

"Something wrong, Mewtwo?" Ash asked.

"Bad news, Ash. The five leaders, Giovanni, Maxie, Archie, Cyrus and Ghetsis escaped from prison, along with their most trusted guards this morning. They are coming for you and your Elite. Tell them to stay on guard."

Ash's expression turned solemn. "Got it."

"Oh and one more thing." Mewtwo said.

Ash looked up. "Yeah, what?"

"I just want to tell you to be careful of the quiet one." With that, he returned to his Pokeball.

Be careful of the quiet one? What does that mean?

Ash shrugged, before going for a shower. He'll think about it later.

BP: Oh My God, it's the longest chapter I ever posted. I know it's bad, you don't have to tell me. Any questions, ask me though PM. The protagonist is definitely Ash, but can you tell which Elite is the deuteragonist and the Tritagonist?

And do review though. Don't criticize me thanks. I received enough of them in real life. And no, none of them are perfect. They have their own flaws, I'll reveal them as the story goes. Now my head hurts from all the writing.

Thanks to mysterypink98 for helping out. I'm actually too embarrassed to post this fic. If not for her, I wouldn't even bother posting, because I'm too embarrassed.

Gary and Paul will come in the next chapter. Because Ash is busy with preparations, since his region is the host, he has to do his duties before he can see them.

P.S: I don't know how to do boarders (hence I use xs to separate scenes). Can someone teach me? Whenever I try to do one and upload on Fanfiction, it always disappears!

P.P.S: Please review! :D