An update that's WAAAAYYYYY overdue! :DDDDD

Beware of a whole lot of grammar mistakes and whatnot.

To the anonymous reviewer (Nick) who probably won't be reading this story anymore but I'm answering his/her questions anyways. (It's on the bottom because it's way to long. To me)

And thanks to everyone who reviewed! I know, I don't like Serena with short hair either, in anime and in manga :(

Wahhhh... I need to get back into the mood of writing Pokemon fanfics. I need some inspirations! Anything! Reading Pokemon fanfics no longer work for me ;;

Okay, rant done.

Disclaimer: I do not own Pokemon

After taking a thorough shower and changing into a new set of clothes composed of a blue ruffled camisole top, blue scarf, and navy blue jeans, Serena hurried out to the Pokemon Center lobby.

She arrived just in time to see Nurse Joy escorting her Pokemon out over the check up.

"Serena!" When Belle saw Serena, she let out a chirp and bounced towards the the brunette without hesitation.

Serena lowered herself so that she could catch the Fennekin before heading towards the nurse.

She checked each and every one of her Pokemon, only to notice that Garchomp was missing.

"How is Garchomp?" She asked in concern.

The kind-hearted nurse smile reassuringly at Serena. "He will be just fine. Just over-exerted himself so he needs more rest. However, as a trainer, you really should not let that ever happen again. I don't know what happened, but don't let your Pokemon overdo it okay?"

Serena nodded in compliance. "I won't. Thank you Nurse Joy."

Satisfied, the Nurse excused herself to resume her post.

Serena stroked Belle's head before looking over the other three Pokemon. Her eyes landed on the Amaura that fell asleep on Arcanine's back.

"That pesky Pokemon…" Serena sighed in exasperation, then moved to stroke Archy's mane, which caused to emit a sound of satisfaction and lowering himself into a resting position on the floor.

Calem and his friends were all eating at the dining area of the Pokemon Center and to talk about what the even that had just occurred while Serena went to take a thorough shower.

"Who knew that Serena actually had Pokemon with her." Yvonne mused. "Why would she keep it a secret from us?"

"Nevermind that, she really scared us just now…" Shauna shivered just thinking about a zombie coming out of the ground. "Why was she even…"

"Gotta admire her guts though," Xavier chuckled. "Not every girl would get herself dirty like that. And she's feisty too."

"Oi…" Yvonne sent the blonde a glare. "Don't even think about trying to hit on our friend."

"And why would that be?" He countered with a smug look. "Are you her mom?"

"What?!"

"Oh mon! You two wouldn't look bad together~" Shauna's eyes immediately sparkled just imagining Serena and Xavier together. The ones who knew her could only sweatdrop, for they knew that Shauna's somewhat of a romantic.

"See?" Xavier gestured at the eccentric Shauna.

"So what?" Yvonne snapped, scowling. "Serena is way too good for you."

Xavier rested his chin on the back of his hand and winked with a smirked. "Are you saying that you would be my match?"

She was taken aback by the sudden counter and heat raised to her cheeks. "... Hah? N-no way! You're just a good for nothing flirt!"

Unable to stand the way that the conversation was developing into, Calem excused himself. "I'm full, I'll go see how our Pokemon are doing."

The others saw nothing wrong with it but Yvonne had a feeling that she should go with him. And seeing that Xavier fit right into their group, she wouldn't be worried about there being any awkward moments so maybe…

"Give the guy some space." Xavier suddenly spoke up.

"Huh?"

Xavier nudged his head to the back of the retreating figure. "Haven't any of you notice how stiff his shoulders are? Best remedy is to leave him be and let him find a place to relax."

"..." Yvonne looked hesitant but heeded to Xavier's advice. Maybe he was right, Calem has been under a bit too much stress in this past month so the best thing would be to leave him alone to give him peace of mind.

She stole a glance at the carefree figure of Xavier, not expecting such advice to come from someone like him. Maybe she should re-evaluate his persona...

"Besides," Said boy continued. "Knowing how much of a chatter bug you are, you would probably annoy him even more to the point of death. Imagine, death by listening to a chatter bug. That would be a sight to see!"

Okay, scratch that previous part. He just dropped more on Yvonne's scale.

When Calem got to the lobby, he saw Nurse Joy talking to a certain honey brown haired girl.

From his current distance, he could faintly hear what they were talking about.

"How is Garchomp?" He heard the concern in her voice, something that was rare for her to show.

The kind-hearted nurse smile reassuringly at Serena. "He will be just fine. Just over-exerted himself so he needs more rest. However, as a trainer, you really should not let that ever happen again. I don't know what happened, but don't let your Pokemon overdo it okay?"

Serena nodded in compliance and bowed in gratitude. "I won't. Thank you Nurse Joy."

Nurse Joy seems satisfied with the answer and returned to her post.

Serena then looked over each of her resting Pokemon before moving to give each of them a portion of Pokemon food. When she reached the Amaura that was sleeping, curling up by Arcanine's side, an unfathomable expression flitted across her face.

She sighed and extended out hand to gently stroke the baby Pokemon's back, making sure that it was light enough not to wake to pokemon that she considered to be troublesome.

Even though she did see the ice-ground type as nothing but a nuisance, she couldn't help but care for the little one. Because when she thought about it, Amaura is living in a world where her mother and father did not exist anymore. It was something that Serena could relate to so she felt a connection with Amaura.

"Poppy."

That sudden interruption caused Serena to freeze and don an irked expression. Without turning, she already knew who it was. There was only one person who would dare call her that.

"What do you want?" She asked rudely in return, making sure that her displeasure of his presence was known.

Calem allowed himself a small smile despite the hostility and then looked at her team of Pokemon. They somehow gave off an intimidating aura despite there only being two fully evolved Pokemon.

"I still can't believe you're a trainer."

It was then that Serena shot Calem a glance before scoffing a reply. "Is it that unbelievable?"

He shrugged back in reply. "Why didn't you tell us anything?"

"And why should I report every little thing to you and your group?"

"Because…." Calem trailed, having realized that there really wasn't a reason at all. While he was trying to think of a comeback, he noticed the Fennekin that was staying close to Serena's side.

"Hey…" He crouched down for a closer examination. "Aren't you the Fennekin back then?"

Fennekin hummed with a tilt of her head, before realization dawned upon her and she barked a reply.

Calem grinned and ruffled the Pokemon's head in affection. "I'm glad you found a trainer!"

Belle shook away barked indignantly. "Don't mess up the part I just fixed!"

Calem chuckled at Fennekin's discomfort then looked at Serena. "Hey Poppy -"

"Call me that again and I'll make sure you would never be able to reproduce." She hissed back.

"Whoa." Calem raised his hands in defense and took a step back. "Easy there girl."

He laughed nervously before recognizing the outfit that she was wearing. It was comprised of a blue ruffled camisole top, blue scarf, and navy blue jeans. "You actually bought the set of clothes that Shauna suggested."

Serena stiffened. How the hell did he still remember that? Why does he even take notice of it?

"So what?" She returned coolly back, then felt the necessity to give him a reason. "It's comfortable and easy to move around than in a dress."

"Oh?" Amused, Calem couldn't help but smile. "It looks nice."

"... flattery gets you nowhere." Serena deadpanned back. If it was any other female, they would have been overjoyed that the champion of Kalos complimented their appearance but for Serena, these silly things didn't matter to her. She was never one to doll up to appease others, that would just make her look like someone who's desperate to find a boyfriend.

Calem shrugged nonchalantly. "But… your hair, it's short."

"Thanks Captain Obvious." She rolled her eyes and turned around to stroke Archy's mane so as to occupy herself with something.

"Why did you cut it?"

"It was a life or death situation, what do you think?" Serena answered but her free hand unconsciously reached up to feel just how short it had really gotten. It barely pass her nape.

"Besides, it's more of of an inconvenience to have long hair."

He smiled helplessly back. "It looked better long."

Serena's hand stroking her Arcanine froze as Calem's words triggered a distance memory of hers.

"Ouch!" A honey-brown haired girl yelped as she was tugged backwards. Her hair caught in the branches.

"What's wrong Serena?" A boy, his face hidden away under a cap that was too large for his small head, stopped walking and turned in the direction of where the girl had shouted.

Serena helpless tugged her hair, trying to untangle it from the blasted branch. "My hair, it got stuck on a branch - hey! Don't laugh!"

Serena yelled at the boy when he was seen bursting into laughter.

"Sorry, sorry!" He apologized but he didn't stop what he was doing.

"You're still laughing!"

"O-okay, I'm stopping right now…" The boy calmed down and headed to where Serena was fruitless trying to free herself. "Here, let me help you."

Serena was glad for the assistance, but she still couldn't help but complain, "Geez, this isn't even funny! Maybe I should cut my hair when after summer camp."

"Mmm… but it's prettier long. I think you should leave it!"

"What's so pretty about it? It's wavy, messy, and there's too much of it to tie up!"

"... It looks like honey? Oh! Maybe it can even attract Pokemon if we make it smell like honey too!"

"Calem!"

Serena's eyes enlarged. No way. Him? It was him?

The little boy that she befriended during summer camp was the Calem Xander? The one who helped her so many times because she was so careless with she was little? The one she had difficulty remembering the name and even the face of? That Calem Xander?

Her brows furrowed at something else that bothered her. "It's not honey."

"What?"

"... Nothing." Serena replied back, cursing herself for mumbling out loud. She angled her head so that Calem was within her line of sight. "Are you just here to talk?"

"Yeah?"

"..."

"Have you ate?"

"Not hungry." That was what she said, but her stomach betrayed her by complaining - rather loudly at that.

A faint dust of pink sprinkled her cheeks while Calem stifle a chuckle.

"So… can you say that again?" He asked, a smirk on his face as if daring Serena to try to get out this one.

Serena sighed with her forehead in her hand.

"One meal." She answered simply, then intrusted her Pokemon to stay. She then turned and headed towards the dining hall.

"I'm going too!" The Fox Pokemon hopped after Serena.

"You finished already Belle?" Serena asked absentmindedly as she picked up the Pokemon.

It would appear to Calem that Fennekin was really attached to Serena, which shows just how much care that the girl had shown towards the Pokemon in the span on one year.

He smiled at Serena's retreating back, then directed his attention to Arcanine, Blastoise, and the napping Amaura.

"You two must have been by her side for a long time, right?"

The Arcanine titled his head, his ears twitching back and forth as he stared curiously - yet warily - at Calem. A growl then escape his throat, followed by a nod.

"I wonder how long..."

"Six years, give for take a few." Archy answered enough though Calem would not understand him.

"Why would you bother to answer him?" Coren suddenly asked. "Serena did not like the boy."

The Arcanine gave a jut of his head towards Calem, who was off in his own world. "He seems genuinely concerned. And I vaguely recall, years ago, of the Miss describing a boy that she could not remember clearly. I would not blame her though, their time together only mounted to less than three months."

"And you're saying this human fits the description?"

"Most definitely."

"Whatever." Coren grumbled disinterestedly, the retracted into his shell. "Wake me up when Serena comes back."

"Ah, you're always sleeping nowadays. You're becoming more and more like him."

"Shut up."

Archy snickered. "Are you not going to sleep?"

"I will, Once you shut your sophisticated muzzle!"

"Why thank you." The Arcanine remarked without a hint of ill-intent. Instead, he was smirking.

Calem observe the two Pokemon who dived into a conversation in their own language. Sometimes, he wished that he could understand Pokemon. Wouldn't that be convenient?

Instead of trying to figure out what a Pokemon's problem is, he can just go up to said Pokemon and ask directly - which will allow problems to be solved peacefully. And he would also be able to talk to his Pokemon any time as well.

"It would be great if I could…"

"... I already told you, stop asking repeatedly!"

Calem was brought out of his train of thoughts from Serena's snappy tone. He turned his head towards where the Dining hall was and saw Serena coming back holding a plate. There was a light serving a macaroni and cheese with the side of mashed potatoes and corn.

Calem's friends also hovered about her as she walked in the direction where Calem was - throwing one question after another at her.

Serena looked like she was about to have a migraine from how much Shauna and Yvonne was rambling on about. When she have Calem within her sight, her scowl became more apparent.

"Cam -"

"It's Calem."

"Calem, Cam, same thing." Serena rolled her eyes.

"No… it's really not."

"No? Then Caradog?"

"..."

"Pfft." Xavier couldn't hold it in anymore. "And I thought I'm the pro when it comes to giving out nicknames!"

"Your upbeat comment isn't necessary Xabi."

"Ha!" Yvonne gave that name a laugh. "That's so… actually, that's kind of cute - no, forget I ever said that!"

Serena sighed as the conversation behind her got louder; therefore, she decided to tone it out and instead, focused on Calem.

"I thought you would be right behind me."

"... For what?" Calem asked blankly.

"You're the one who asked if I was hungry." Serena answered, looking at him as if he was an idiot. "Weren't you asking because you haven't ate yet?"

"Oh…" Calem thought about it for a split second before a light smirk played on his lips. "Are you looking out for me?"

"No." It was an automatic reply. Serena didn't even give it a second of thought. "I needed you for crowd control."

"..." Calem sweatdropped at her answer while Serena took a bit of her mac and cheese; but because of the excessively energetic people around her, it only took one bit for her to lose her appetite.

"I'm full. Here." Serena promptly shoved the plate onto Calem.

"Wha…"

"Belle, come here." She called for the Fox Pokemon who was being examined by Trevor and Tierno, ignoring Calem completely. "We should get away from rowdy people before we're mistaken as being a part of them."

"You never pass on a chance to make a rude comment do you?" Calem remarked helplessly as Serena headed towards Arcanine.

"No." She admitted it quite shamelessly.

"Wah~!" Shauna exclaimed with sparkles floating around her. Her hands were cupping her cheeks in admiration when she caught sight of Arcanine. "This one's fur is so slick and shiny!"

Archy puffed out his chest proudly at the comment.

"Serena, do you groom him daily?"

"... No." Serena gave Shauna a strange look. "He only returned to me recently and I only stroke him every now and then."

"Returned recently?" Trevor repeated, catching her words.

Serena sighed. She knew that she could just ignore them and be off on her way, but what about the next time? They always come with questions whenever they saw her. It was really annoying.

"Archy and Coren have been taken care of by Gary until recently." Serena explained enthusiastically. It wasn't that big of a deal so she thought that she could share that much information.

"That's amazing!" Trevor explained in amazement. "You mean, they were trained by Gary Oak?"

"... He was just babysitting them." Serena corrected. She didn't understand why Trevor would find that astounding. "Archy was behaving well but… I get complaints from Gary every now and then about Coren…"

"Oi." Said Pokemon pulled him head out of his shell and gave Serena a look.

Serena rolled her eyes at him. Having been with her starter for a long time, she knew what he was thinking. "He always complained about you slacking off. Now I can see why."

Archy snickered while Coren tapped his stumpy foot - lightly, in consideration of Amaura.

"You just need a bit more exercise, that's all." Serena placated yet somewhat scolded. "And stop sleeping so much."

"That's a good idea," Calem suddenly said, a rare glint in his eyes. "How about a battle?"

"What?" Came the reply of almost everyone.

Serena just stared at Calem, waiting for him to give an explanation.

"Well, I want to see how strong your Pokemon is." He explained with a grin. "You seem pretty close to them, seeing how you understood your Pokemon on the spot. Trainers who doesn't spent a long time with their Pokemon can't do that."

"But Calem," Yvonne reasoned, trying to bale Serena out by taking it out with Calem. "Have you considered your position?"

"What about it?"

"You're the Kalos Champion for Arceus's sake!"

"So? I'll go easy on her."

"What did he just say?" Coren growled, about to throw a fit. "I knew I didn't like that human for a reason!"

Arcanine sighed. "Now now…"

Yvonne and others facepalmed at the gravity of the words that he had just spoke. Even if they hadn't known Serena for long, they knew enough to know that she was a person that do not like it when people go easy on her.

They watched as Serena narrowed her eyes at the young Champion. They hit the mark.

"Oh wait…" Calem only then realized that his words was a tad bit insulting. "That's not what I meant."

"Then what do you mean?" Serena began icily.

Calem unconsciously took a step back. Somehow, he felt his back being threatened. It turns out, Coren had his two cannons aimed directly at his back.

Like trainer like Pokemon, I see. Calem sweatdropped.

"Hmph." Serena folded her arms across her chest. "It's not like I would waste time and energy on a pointless battle anyways."

She fished out a few pokeballs and recalled every one. "I'm going to sleep."

She didn't even wait for the opinions of others. She left for the stairs to the room that she had booked in the last minute.

She really hoped that she didn't need to deal with that group again. She felt like she had lost some years of her life span just talking to those people.

Belle hopped onto the ever-so soft bed that was also trying to invite Serena. The young trainer plopped herself onto the edge and poked around her bag for her Holo Caster. She needed to her uncle a contact.

A call. Sleep. And then tomorrow… Serena mentally listed what her plans were for tomorrow, which she carefully arranged so that there was the least possibility of being captured - as she would like to describe it whenever she meets the group - by Calem and his friends.

"Ah, Serena, bonsoir!"

She nodded as a silent greeting while her mind was still on the train.

Wake up bright and early tomorrow and left before they find out.

Beep beep beep!

The alarm went off for three in the morning.

"Ugh…" The brunette groaned as she searched the nightstand for the Holo Caster that woke her up at this ungodly hour - although she was the one who set it at this ungodly hour.

"Five more minutes…" Belle mumbled, ignoring the shifting of blankets as Serena got up.

The girl yawned, one that lasted more than normal. She rubbed her eyes as she got ready to go, mumbling something about not getting enough sleep.

And it was true. From the time of her call to Prof. Sycamore to now, she only had two hours of sleep. She blamed it on the rough night last night. She was dead tired from all the exercise, which was then followed by mental stress of various causes.

Because of her drowsiness, she tripped over her bag and landed squarely on the floor. There was an unpleasant thud that followed and a curse from Serena.

Morning of a new day, and Serena was already pissed.

Dressed and mostly awake, she returned Belle back to her pokeball because the poor Pokemon looked like she needed more sleep.

Blowing a hair away from her eyes, Serena took her things and left to find Nurse Joy. She needed to transfer Garchomp back to her uncle for further treatment. She knew that he would be sleeping and it would be rude to wake him up, but she needed to go. Like now. Before -

"So, where are you going so early in the morning?"

What. The. Hell. Serena's eye twitched when he saw who it was sitting not too far from where she was.

She then narrowed her brows at his well-dressed appearance - it was the same attire from last night - and his somberness. Only Arceus knows what he has been doing all night.

"... coffee?"

"That would be nice right now," Calem answered almost jokingly. "But no. I'm used to staying awake for a few days - plus, I'm a light sleeper. That sound you made."

He pointed to the ceiling. "It's very noticeable."

"..." Serena did not want to comment on that while she's still somewhat sleep deprived. No one would want to mess with her when she's sleep deprived.

Coffee sounds nice right about now. She noted to herself. Extra dark and extra strong.

"So, I answered yours," Calem continued, leaning against the couch. "You should do the courtesy of answering mine."

"You're not my babysitter." She snapped back moodily.

"... never said I was."

"Then laid off of my business."

"Huh… I think we been through a similar conversation."

"Really? The you must have lost your brain if you didn't learn from it the first time around."

"Says the person who can't even remember names."

Serena glowered. "Shut up Carousel."

"What's up with your attitude?"

"What's up with your attitude?"

"... I don't have one. Right now." Calem mumbled the last bit to himself. "Are you grouchy because you don't have enough sleep?"

"No, of course not." Serena answered sarcastically, folding her arms. "It's not like everyone have mood swings just because of sleep depravity. Sometimes, it's just that when it comes to dealing with idiotic pests, you have to get rough. Should have bought some repellents that wore off dolts."

"So… sleep-deprived?"

"No, imbecile." She growled. "I need you-" she pointed at him, then at a random direction. - "-out of here. Your presence is suffocating."

Calem raised his hands in defense. "Okay, I like it that you talk a lot like this but anything that comes out of your mouth stings."

"Ugh." Serena groaned. She didn't want to deal with this guy anymore.

Instead of lashing out at Calem some more, Serena went up to the front desk and ringed for the Nurse Joy from before with the push of a button.

The Nurse came out a few minutes later, battling a yawn. "Yes?"

"I need Garchomp. My un - Prof. Sycamore said that he wanted to treat Garchomp himself."

"Oh!" Nurse Joy blinked upon the mention of the professor. She smiled and nodded in approval. "Alright then. I'll get Garchomp ready for you. Please wait for a moment."

"You woke up early for that?"

Without turning, Serena unceremoniously lashed out with a punch by swing her fist backwards so that it is perpendicular to the ground but parallel with her head.

"Hey!"

This is why you don't mess with Serena when she's snappy. She'll respond with a fist first, then talk later - or just disparage the other.

Lucily, Calem have quick reflexes so he caught her hand before it landed on his face. It still gave him a shock because of suddenness.

"Oh. I thought there was molester."

"What?" Calem couldn't believe what he just heard. He's been called many things before but a molester? He was a champion for Arceus sake! He has a reputation to keep up and he isn't even that kind of a person!

"... If you don't let go right now…" Serena began to warn. "I'm really going to see you as one."

Calem promptly dropped her hand and backed away cautiously.

Serena rolled her eyes and mumbled something along the lines of - "People these days are so nosey…"

"Oh, I'll be nice and warn you." Serena glanced at Calem. "Don't mess with me when I'm sleep deprived."

"So you are sleep deprived!"

… That's what you're more concerned about? Serena glared at him, keeping her thoughts to herself.

Calem scratched the back of his head. "Gee, why didn't you just tell me earlier?"

"..." Serena's face was screaming: "What did I just say?"

"Oh wait…" He laughed awkwardly. "Never mind."

Once Serena received Garchomp's pokeball, she made a call to her uncle through the video call booth

And let Serena tell you, her uncle have one heck of a bedhead. She almost thought he was a Pokemon the moment that he didn't talk.

"Serena… why are you calling so early in the morning?" He complained.

"..." Serena still hadn't gotten over the fact that she thought her uncle was a Pokemon who answers his calls for him.

Calem, seeing how Serena wasn't answering, nudged her side.

She snapped out of her stupor, but instead of thanking Calem, she glared at him.

"Garchomp." She simply answered. "I'm not staying at this center for long so I'm sending him to you before I leave."

"Ah, alright. Let me open the transport machine." Prof. Sycamore yawned and then the video stopped streaming with a zzzt.

"You're going?" Calem asked abruptly.

Serena headed for where he Center's transport machine was. "What about it?"

"But it's so early!"

"All the better." She answered while turning on and placing Garchomp's pokeball onto the empty socket.

Prof. Sycamore's face came onto the monitor to the side where people get to talk to whoever the port was connected to.

"One sec, I just need too… ack!"

"Uncle…" Serena narrowed her eyes suspiciously at the now empty screen. "You did not just spill something did you?"

The picture that the monitor was showing startic to become static, and so was Prof. Sycamore's voice.

"Ha… course… not… erna!"

And the connection was cut off with a zzzt.

"..." Serena stared at the screen for a few more seconds before a note was sent through her Holo Caster.

"Sorry my niece. Some problems came up with the transporter so hold onto Garchomp until I fix it!

-Amour, votre oncle."

She sighed tiredly after she read it. He did spill over liquid over the machine…

"What happened?" Calem asked curiously.

"I'm holding onto Garchomp for the meantime." Serena answered distractedly as she placed the pokeball into her bag. Maybe uncle will be done fixing the next Center I reach.

"You're seriously leaving this early in the morning?"

"Again, what about it?" Serena countered as she headed out, Calem right behind her.

"... Unless you're actually a lost Lillipup, why are you following me?" Serena asked when she stopped right before of the exit. She found him annoying. Strange. But mostly annoying.

"I'm coming with you."

What. Serena wheeled around to face the young man with the usual scowl on her face. "What makes you think I'll let you?"

"Hm…" Calem thought for a bit. She wasn't sure if he was actually thinking about it or just playing with her. He looked like the latter. "Well, who knows what kind of trouble you'll get into. And since That - what was it called? Team Flare? - group already seen your face, I'm pretty sure you're an easy target."

"Who ever says I'm an easy target?" Serena seethed. She felt like she has just been underestimated. "Just so you know, I have plenty of battle experience under my belt!"

"Oh?" Calem smirked. Serena did not like the way he smirked. It was as if…

"Want to prove that?"

Dammit! Played right into his stupid trap! Serena mumbled a curse. Even though she knew that he was just messing with her, Serena will not let that statement go. She was fine with people keep their thoughts to themselves, but when they show that they're underestimate her… that's when she gets stubborn.

She spun on her head and headed outside. "Fine. One Pokemon each."

Calem had confirmed that he had found one of Serena's do-not-push buttons.

"If you win, you go be the lone wolf." Calem instated end deal across the field that were a ways away from the Pokemon Center. It was better if their battle doesn't disturb anyone's beauty sleep. "Bu If I were to win... I'm coming with you."

"... Do you want to be a chaperon that badly?" Serena inquired, giving him a strange look. She then tossed out her pokeball.

"Archy, let's go!"

The canine materialized with the red beam light. He opened his muzzle widely for a yawn to escape, then stretched his body to loosen the bones.

"Sorry Archy, but we'll have to get ready for a battle."

Archy nodded obediently, not minding to have been woken up at all. If it had been Blastoise, then that would be a whole different story.

"No, but I have the feeling that my job will be easier if I'm around you." Calem answered and threw his pokeball. "Kite, gear up!"

What job? Serena wondered but the thought disappeared when Serena saw the Ninetales. She gave the trainer a look. "You better not be going easy on me."

"What?" Calem responded, somewhat hurt. "I'm just trying to make this fair. No type advantages or disadvantages."

"..."

"Lady's first." Calem said with a flourish.

Arcanine looked over to the Fox Pokemon, and did a courtesy befitting that of a gentleman's. "Hello, I will apologize in advance if I do anything that is to dissatisfy you. I am reluctant when it comes to harming a lady."

"Hoh?" Kite's tails swished back and forth in her sitting position, her ruby red eyes glinted at his words. "Should I take that as an insult?"

"Archy, start this with Agility."

"Take it however you like." The pseudo-legendary answered unfathomably before blurring into speed that immediately embraces the dark of night.

"Kite, Will-o-Wisp!"

She didn't bothered to get up when she summon several eerie flames around her, and shot them out in different directions. The purpose of those flames were to expand her line of sight, which came in handy when fighting in the dark.

When Arcanine came close to the Ninetales, Calem immediately commanded her to use Imprison.

However, Archy didn't stay within the area of target for long than a second before disappearing with another Agility. After that, the canine made several attempts to get close, but then opening the distance between them a split second afterwards.

Kite's ruby red eyes began to glow in rising anger. "Are you taking me for a fool?"

Archy chuckled. "I'm merely carrying out the Miss's intentions."

Calem frowned at the Arcanine's odd behavior, though realization dawned on him a minute later. "Kite, Dig! Don't let them find your weak spots!"

Serena clicked her tongue. "Intercept with Extreme Speed!"

Because of the speed boost that he had gained with the multiple usage of Agility, Archy's Extreme Speed became faster than normal - almost unrivaled.

"Switch to Baby-Doll Eyes!"

When Ninetales unleashed to might of the attractiveness in those irresistibly cute eyes of hers, Archy faltered for a split second.

And that split second was enough to ruin his attack run.

On Calem's quick commands, Kite used Imprison once more - disabling Extreme Speed - and she followed it up with Psyshock.

Archy was send back a few yards with a deep scratch to his flank. He steadied himself as if it was nothing and came back galloping around, weary of his opponent.

"Archy, get close with Agility and then Crunch!"

Strangely, Kite didn't retaliate, but it was the moment that the attack landed that the Ninetales did something.

"Payback!"

"Archy, Flame Burst!"

Arcanine burst into flames right at the moment that Ninetales dealt damage, therefore giving her a few burns - even if it wasn't effective.

"Flamethrower, Kite!" Kite looked at the stated of her fur and growled. She pawed the ground in anger, her muzzle opened and out came Flamethrower.

"Disperse it with Roar and follow it up with Flare Blitz!"

A loud roar came about, disturbing the surrounds and sending several flying types out of their nests. The howl vibrated through the air until it reached the Kite's attack and dispersing it on the spot.

"Kite, Double Team before he reaches you!" The Pokemon dutifully does so and then she dashed into a Quick Attack.

Arcanine was still in his attack run when that happened so he wasn't able to stop himself. He ended up on the ground, Kite putting weight on him from the top.

"Confide!"

Kite smirked, her eyes flowing an eerie red before leaning down to Archy's ears to whisper something. The latter Pokemon's eyes widened ever so slightly before he shook her off. Kite gracefully jumped back, looking smug all the way.

"You…" The Pseudo-legendary growled - irritated. "That was a dirty trick."

Kite gave him a condescending yet dignified look. "Child, you're a hundred years too young to stand on the same level as me."**

"..." Arcanine was rather nonplussed. Did the Fox Pokemon just admitted that she's way, way older than him. He was pretty sure that most females don't like their age to be revealed… humans and Pokemon alike.

Momentarily distracted, Kite used his chance to approach with Flame Charge, which was combined with a close range Dark Pulse.

"Archy, focus." Serena urged and she also mentally scolded herself to focus as well. She was getting frustrated at how Calem and the Ninetales were playing around.

The large canine shook his mane in response and growled at Serena in compliance and telling her that he was ready for round two; although, from his irregular breathing, it was obvious that he was running low of stamina.

"Good, Agility once more!"

"Confuse him, Kite! When he comes close!"

The Ninetales created several balls of light at the ready and once Arcanine was within range, she launched them directly at the opposing fire type - unlike how she had spread the Will-O-Wisp.

However, each and every one of those rays of light missed. Archy's speed was getting faster and became more flexible by the minute. Calem frowned at the gradual improvement that he didn't react fast enough to Serena's next few words.

"Jump and use Aerial Ace!"

Archy grunted as he pushed himself into the air and then dived down. His body was sizzling with electricity from Wild Charge upon Serena's following command. The combo struck Kite squarely against her flank, sending her back a few meters.

Without giving time for Kite to stand up, Arcanine tackled her with Take Down, sending her flying some more. Before she even reaches the ground this time, Archy leapt and bit down with Thunder Fang, causing paralysis.

"Kite!" Calem exclaimed in surprise as the Arcanine hurled the Fox Pokemon onto the found afterwards.

Serena wasn't done yet. "Outrage!"

Calem looked as if he was in a state of panic. "Kite, Protect, quick!"

"Tch." Kite clicked her tongue but there was an amusing smile on her muzzle when she felt the amount of power that Arcanine put in those repeated charges. "You're a gentleman till the end, I see."

When Arcanine didn't answer her, her eyes glowed red with Calm Mind, which was also in combination with Nasty Plot.

"Kite, trap him with Fire Spin!" While the attack did no actual damage to Archy, it did lessen his area of mobility. It was the perfect place for Kite to aim when using Giga Impact - which is just what she did when Calem told her the command.

Serena grit her teeth. "Archy -"

Before she could counteract, Kite already reached her Arcanine. The pseudo-legendary howled in pain as he was taken down to the floor. He tried to get back up but his limps were being flimsy, that and Ninetales came pouncing in with another Quick Attack.

Kite smirked triumphantly and her eyes twinkling with laughter as she looked down on Archy once more. "Skilled. But you're too soft."

She hopped off and returned to Calem's side. "Next time we fight, I do hope you have a better disposition towards your opponents. Your chivalry really insults my pride."

"You sure talk a lot for an elder."

"Hoh?" Kite look back, not at all offended from the looks of it. "You're actually quite childish, young one."

Calem chuckled as he ruffled Kite's head. "Did you make friends while you were battle?"

The Ninetales adjusted her head to give a better spot for the act of affection and gave a noncommittal response. "Perhaps." With that, she returned to her pokeball for a well deserved rest.

"So... looks like you need someone to look after you after all."

"..." Serena didn't answered him. Her Arcanine gave her an apologetic look but she didn't blame the Pokemon for the lost. A loss was a loss. But it was still frustrating. After all, she lost. Was she a bit too overconfident of her abilities? Was she and her Pokemon rusty?

She pursed her lips. No... she was just making up excuses now, but losing really didn't suit her taste. It never did. She had long forgotten what it felt like to lose in a battle and Calem just had to remind her of how much she hated it.

"... Next time."

"Pardon?" Calem titled his head slightly at her vague words.

Serena send him a look that was so alive and determined that it startled him. "Next time it won't be the same."

"Hah?"

"You reminded me how I hate losing." Serena provided bluntly.

"..." Calem wondered if she was joking. But knowing Serena, she probably wasn't. But who knew that she had this side to her? Hated losing? Doesn't everyone hate that? Though... Calem had to admit, she did put up a fight halfway through. It actually caught him by surprise at the instant improvement, and even drove him into a corner. He wouldn't be lying if he said that he doesn't get driven into corners often.

He chuckled. "Well, you're actually -"

"Anyways," Serena cut him off before he could get the compliment out. "let's go."

"... what?"

The brunette gave the Kalos Champion a look that asked if he was an idiot. "Unless you don't want to travel together, then you don't have to."

"What?!" Calem repeated. He wasn't expecting her to accept so willingly, even after a fight.

Serena merely rolled her eyes and turned around to leave in the direction of Route 11.

"W-wait!" Calem hastily followed her. "We haven't even told our friends yet!"

"You mean you haven't told your friends yet." Serena corrected with emphasis on the 'you's.' "It's none of their business to know my whereabouts."

Calem sighed. "Alright fine, I haven't told my friends. Happy?"

"No." The brunette deadpanned.

"... Why?"

"You're tagging along."

"... You agreed though."

"I keep my words." Serena answered. "And I'm not going to wait on you to inform your friends."

"... I'll just leave a message on the Holo Caster then."

Serena almost wanted to laugh. Almost. She smirked though. "Wise choice."

"You're seem better than a few hours ago."

Serena stopped and gave Calem an incredulously stare. "Why are you still on that?"

"I'm just making sure that I don't step on the wrong foot." Calem reasoned, his hands raised in defense. "And do you even know where you're going?"

"Of course." The brunette answered confidently. "My instincts are telling me to go this way."

"... Arceus, is this how you have been traveling?" Calem wanted to facepalm, but he resisted the urge. He had never heard anyone with that kind of simplistic sense of directions. Does she not have a destination in mind like every other normal person?

"I have a map too." Serena provided, taking out her Holo Caster. "Though... it doesn't when I needed it, and it's details aren't too noticeable either."

Calem decided that Serena absolutely needed a companion when traveling.

Ha! We're getting somewhere! (I think.)

** P.S.

It's implied that Calem caught Ninetales when she was fully evolved already. Sorry for any confusion.

To the questions of the anonymous reviewer, nick:

1) Maybe. I mean a plot has a beginning and an end. Well, if you expect a twist somewhere in there, there might. I'm making changes as I go. And unless you're looking for some insightful meaning in whatever I write (That ain't happening because I'm a nothing but a novice) I been meaning to rewrite the summary, but it just got more vague. But here:

What is a journey? Is it simply an adventure to explore the world, or that leads you to fame and fortune? Calem did this, done that, and it led to right where he expected. But also below his expectations. Serena thought otherwise of the matter. Going on a journey meant that she desire something, to change and to re-evaluate what she already knew of herself. It's to create a connection with the world around you, make allies and fight against your enemies. A journey means there is a goal and a home to return to after that goal is reached. Serena had none of those; therefore, she refuses the opportunity when it came knocking at her doorsteps - literally. But she never expected that Fate would set her up for one. Was it really a journey though? There was a goal, yes, a home to return to? She will have to come back to that one when she have the answer.

(It's too long so I'll need to shrink it. By like half.)

2)Yes, it takes place in Kalos. (That was the easiest one the answer lol)

3) Uh... To the main story timeline? Don't know. Well, to be more helpful, it's probably... six-seven(?) years after the happenings in LeafGreen and FireRed game. Serena being ten back then (I never wrote a story for the 1st gen so it's a bit ambiguous).

4) Current ages as of this chapter:

Kalos Group: Serena (17), Calem(18), Yvonne(17), Shauna(18 - ha, surprised?), Tierno(18), Trevor(17), Xavier(17)

Kanto Group (Even though they won't make another appearance anytime soon): Ash(19), Gary(19), Leaf(18).

(A/N: As much as traveling at the age of ten sounds ridiculous to me, that's what Serena/Ash/Leaf/Gary did when they were 10-12, but not for the Kalos group. Let's just say that Kalos regulations are a bit more strict so they don't officially start traveling till around 15-17. This will be mentioned by Serena once she opens up and shares a bit about herself)

5) I'm pretty sure that I put this up in CH. 13 but okay.

Main Protagonist teams as of current chapter:

Calem's Team

Greninja - Grenou

Absol - Slade

Altaria - Aria

Meowstic - Gemini

Ninetails - Kite

Lucario - Loren

Serena's Team

Arcanine - Archy

Fennekin - Belle

Garchomp (Borrowed)

Blastoise - Coren

Amaura - Yet to be named (:p)

Unknown - Soon to be revealed (lol)

Yvonne's Team

Sylveon - Fay

Pangoro - Pongo

Venusaur - Flori

Talonflame - Pere

Lopunny- Locket

Clawitzer - Rive

Xavier's Team

Unknown

Trevor's Team (I'm semi-following the game on him, same with Tierno and Shauna)

Charizard - Salame

Raichu - Raiu

Tierno's Team

Blastoise - Hip-hop

Olé - Hawlucha

Shauna's Team:

Chestnaught - Chestnut

Furfrou - Farel