"Ash, Ash wake up!" The gruff and drowsy whisper from Brock caused Ash to stir ever so slightly, he opened his eyes slowly, staring at the aspiring pokemon breeder's face that was covered by the darkness of the night. Noticing that it was still fairly dark and the digital alarm clock next to him read 3:02 AM, Ash deduced that Brock woke him up in the middle of the night, for some strange reason.

"Brock? What's wrong? Why did you wake me up." Brock gave Ash somewhat of a sheepish smile, seeing that Ash was still in a foggy state. He sat himself down onto Ash's bed and stroke a sleeping Pikachu's ears in a soothing manner, collecting his thoughts in the process. Looking at the drowsy trainer before him, Brock realized that what he is about to say is clearly a serious matter that may impact the dynamic of the group.

"Sorry for waking you up Ash, but it's important. You see, it's about today. You know that battle with Sabrina?" Ash blinked his eyes in quick succession, his mind finally registering the string of words from Brock's mouth. He nodded as he gave full attention to the former rock type gym leader. The faint moonlight faded through the window, despite the darkness of the night, Ash was still able to see Brock's worried expression that best fit a concern parent. Perplexed at his friend's expression, Ash got more intrigued by the second.

"Yeah what about it? Look if it's about how I won the gym battle then I-" Halting Ash's words his hand, Brock gave him an amusing smile. He wasn't here to ridicule him on that, Misty would have the all the honors to do it in the morning. Speaking of the young redhead, she was sleeping peacefully from across the room, a nice change of scenery than her usual self. Though she should really wear something that covered more skin, the pokemon centers room are all air conditioned after all.

"Well it's not about the battle, it's about Sabrina." Sabrina? At the mention of the young psychic gym leader, Ash finally sat upright and narrowed his eyes in an inquisitive manner. What on earth would Brock talk about Sabrina? Hopefully it isn't about his dirty fantasies about her, Brock tend to be a bit "graphic" with his use of words. Though Ash highly doubts that considering Brock didn't even remotely shown any interest in her.

'Brock normally saves that before I sleep and not after, sheesh is he really that desperate?' Part of him laughed at the thought of Sabrina throwing Brock with her psychic abilities into a trash can with her red cheeks all puffed out, being all shy and embarrassed...

'That would be kinda cute actually...' He wasn't as dense as people thought he is, but he wasn't exactly the casanova type either. Either way, Brock would be proud of Ash's interest into cute girls should he ever read his mind.

"Look Brock if it's about you trying to ask her out on a date." Brock gave out a sigh that meant "come on", for once in his life he is talking about woman that is not in anyway disgusting or perverted. This was serious and emotional engaging talk, that shouldn't be lumped with his uh, hobbies.

'Well I mean, she is pretty hot with that cold and dominating attitude of her's, gives me the chills... hehe.' Alright maybe Brock has a few fetishes that we would not further discuss.

"It's not about that Ash." Brock cleared his throat and return back to his senses, prompting the young trainer from Pallet to raise his eyebrows. Not about the battle, not about Brock going for Sabrina? What else could it be? Ash was in a confused like state, what matter that is so dire that requires him to be rudely awaken in the middle of the night.

"Okay then what is it about?" And why can't it wait until morning?" Brock smile gingerly, he should have told Ash during dinner but that little task slipped out of his mind. Morning would be a little too late for it, seeing that it was kind last minute.

"Look Ash, today when Haunter make Sabrina laugh, she got out of her emotionless shell and became a normal girl right? Laughing and smiling, her parents were really happy to have their little girl back, don't you think you did something amazing Ash?" The young boy could tell Brock's tone was of admiration and respect, which made him felt flattered in all honesty. However, it was a little silly that Brock would wake him up in the middle of the night just to shower him praises, it didn't seemed that urgent or like him.

Given much thought about Brock's words, Ash pondered at what he did to help Sabrina out, while indeed he did help Sabrina by breaking her emotionless and ruthless state, he didn't want to take any credit for it. If anything it was his haunter who should have gotten all the credit, speaking of which, the ghost type pokemon is with Sabrina right now. The joyous looks on Sabrina's parents and seeing her smile for the very first time were something Ash never felt before, hope and joy were among those familiar feelings. It made him feel great that he helped someone out no doubt, but he was still reluctant to accept that he was the sole reason why Sabrina was able to turn back to a normal girl. He won't accept that, it was his mischievous and eccentric ghost type whom he already miss dearly.

"Well you already said it Brock, it was Haunter who made Sabrina laugh not me, if you want to thank someone, go thank haunter." Ash bear a smile on his face, truthfully he was proud of his kind hearted yet mischievous ghost. It did saddened him a little that he is now staying by Sabrina's side but if it is haunter's choice and it makes Sabrina happy, then he is more than willing to let it be.

"Hah, always humble aren't you Ash? Look I think I will stop beating around the bushes and be honest with you on why I woke you up tonight. Sabrina's father and I had a talk before dinner, he came up to me when I was finished buying supplies. It's the reason why I came back late, ugh and Misty thought I was busy flirting with girls." Ash snickered at Brock's glare to Misty, who was murmuring about water type pokemon in her sleep.

"Well I don't blame her, you were being dodgy about it." Brock gave out a defeated sigh and shrugged his shoulders. At that moment Ash's face turned serious, which was rare for the young trainer. He was quite concern why Sabrina's father would go out of his way to meet up with Brock.

"So what did you guys talked about?" Brock's eyes match Ash's and gave him a nod, he rubbed his arms as he found it hard to form sentences. This was the dreaded moment he wasn't ready for, hence the long and unneeded build up and compliments.

"Uh here's the thing, Sabrina's father wants Sabrina to travel with us." The deadbeat silence in the room couldn't be more obvious, Brock was certain that Ash would be mortified and instantly freak out. To his surprise, Ash only crossed his arms and gave a smile that seemed to endorse the decision.

"Sure why not?" Stating as if it was the most natural response, Ash found it ridiculous that Brock had such a hard time to tell him what's on his mind. In all honesty, Ash was fine with accepting new members to the group, they would get to learn together, grow together and improve each other's strength and weaknesses. So having another member in their company is like having family, and how could you say not to that?

"Ash let me remind you that Sabrina's father wants her daughter, a psychic who can turn us into a doll with a snap of her fingers to travel with us! I know think she's a normal teenager but she's NOT, she's dangerous psychic that can make us her plaything!" Brock's shouting was a bit too loud for Misty's liking, earning him a flying pillow smacked right into his's face. Ash was taken aback by the precision from the Waterflower, did she had a knack for beating people up? Even in her sleep?

"Shut up and sleep Brock...Zzz" Brock removed the pillow from his face and scowled at Misty, have some class woman!

"Oh come on Brock, I don't think Sabrina would do that to us, besides it will be nice to have someone to travel with us don't you think? The more the merrier!" Shaking his head internally at Ash's innocence and his purity, Brock gave out a sighed as he scratched his cheek. He should expected Ash's naivety, always trying to bring out the best of people.

"Well, I mean Sabrina-" Brock was cut off by Ash's, which in itself is unlike him. However Brock was not prepared at what Ash had to say. His gaze turned stoic and his eyes had a glint of determination that carried his compassion for life, with a small but seemingly disappointed sigh that made Brock feel like a child, Ash made his shockingly deep speech.

"Brock, Sabrina is lonely you know? And I figured she always has been, from the moment she cut herself away from her family, friends and people who loved her. Right now she was given another chance to be a normal girl again, to be free and happy! Don't you want that for her? Because I do! A-And if her father wants her to experience that happiness through travelling with us, then why not! We can be her friend, to give her the warmth and the love a friend should give. We shouldn't shun her out or think she is a monster because she's not, she's just a fractured girl who needs our support desperately. She is a victim of her own powers Brock, she was born into it, she never asked for that. Why should we reject her just because she's different from us? Yes, I know she turned us into a doll, and could hurt us very much if she choose to do so but I believe in her Brock, I believe in that genuine laughter she showed, that cozy smile of hers and the tears of guilt of turning her own mother to a doll. I believe that Sabrina won't hurt us, and wants be our friend and she deserves that. I welcome her to join our journey with open arms, because I want her to be happy. We have more things in common than in difference Brock, don't let our differences divide us for who we are." Brock stared at Ash with an intense expression, who knew that Ash, a kid who cares for pokemon and is dense about everything else can say something so heart warming and beautiful. Despite Brock's earlier worrying thoughts about Sabrina travelling with them, he found himself agreeing with Ash instantaneously. He brought many good points, points which made him feel guilty at how cowardly he seemed to be compared to Ash. He was right when he said Sabrina isn't a monster, she's a victim and she should be cared for. She should be treated as a friend, not someone dangerous.

"I- you're right Ash." Ash found himself smiling, not really realizing what he said changed how Brock sees him as. The maturity in his voice laced with his compassion and kindness made Brock realized that Ash was a prime example of an idealistic boy who would do good, something which he hope it he would carry on in his latter years.

"Ugh, morning already?" Misty gave out a loud groan as she buried herself deeper into her covers, you would think she looked a kakuna at this state considering her covers matches the colours of one. Her reddish hair was slightly messy but it wasn't something to fuss over about.

"Yeap, so wake up sleepy head." Brock grinned when Misty rubbed her face with her hands, almost as if she was trying to massage them. In the corner of his eye, Brock saw Ash putting on his socks while bearing an unreadable expression with pikachu clinging onto his trainer with his eye lids half opened.

'Maybe his thinking about the talk we had last night, it's unlike him to be this quiet, especially when it is time for breakfast.' Noting to make a big breakfast just for Ash, Brock stared at Ash's partner pikachu who finally regain alertness and perched on his shoulder ever so faithfully, the cute electric mouse nuzzled his trainer to say his good morning to him, earning a scratch at his ears.

"So where are we going after Saffron Ash?" Ash stared at Misty quizzically, wait didn't Brock tell her about-

"We're going to see Sabrina first Misty." Brock interrupted hastily, he knew he should have told Misty about it, but everyone was exhausted after yesterday events night and he himself forgot about it until he was lazing in his bed at night. Besides Misty would whack him if he tries to wake her up in the middle of the night, screaming "pervert!" while bashing him with her pillow in all of her fury.

"Huh? Why?" Pikachu stared between Brock and Ash as the two shared knowingly glances, something which unnerved the electric mouse pokemon.

"I will explain everything during breakfast." Misty didn't seemed pleased to be kept in the dark, but she nodded nevertheless seeing that Ash seemed a bit too quiet for her liking.

Meanwhile in a certain young teenager's home, a yellowish backpack with a healing ball symbol was placed right next to the young girl's bed. She glanced at her backpack every now and then as she felt excitement and nervousness running through her veins. She slowly counted the list of things she needs for her journey and felt the familiar presence of her mother.

"Brush?"

"Check!"

"Clothes?"

"Check!"

"Sleeping bag?"

"Check!"

"Money?"

"Check!"

"Becoming Ash's girlfriend?"

"Chec- wait what! Mom!" The cute pout from Sabrina caused her parents to laugh, as their blushing daughter started to flail her arms in denial. It was almost adorable seeing her shake her head in protest, knowing full well the small crush she had on the trainer from Pallet.

"Oh come on Sabrina, your mother and I are only having some fun." Ruffling her hair like a child, Sabrina's father gave her a grin as he helped her packed the essentials for her journey. She swatted her father's hand while rolling her eyes in the process, not liking the fact he was treating her like a little girl, spoiling her with head pats and small hugs that just made her feel embarrassed.

"Yeah, yeah." Sabrina's mother giggled at annoyed her daughter sound, must be her teenage years starting to kick in. She stared at her with much affection, multitude of feelings overwhelmed her before she gave Sabrina a motherly hug. The psychic prodigy stagger backwards in shock, but soon melt into her arms at the touch of a mother's embrace. She felt like this was all a dream, able to see her parents again and able to express herself freely. No longer being slave to her own powers and darkness, now she was with the light again.

"You know I'm gonna miss you, we just got you back and now you are already off." The look of sorrow on her mother's face tugged Sabrina's heartstrings, did she wanted to go with Ash and the co's journey? Of course, but some part of her wanted to stay with her parents. To rekindle the bond and memories they should have shared, as a family. She didn't want to leave, not so soon anyway but her father suggested that she go with Ash, the boy who broke free of the spell she casted to her self, the boy who might be willing to be her friend. She knew she owe him much, hell she practically owed him her life. She had made a promise to herself that she would help Ash in anyway possible, help him grow as a person or a trainer.

'I'm pretty sure dad wants me to do more than that.' It was blatantly obvious to her that her father desire Ash to be his son-in-law almost immediately. He didn't even bother to hide it, the dinner they had last night were filled with no short amount of tripping down memory lane and lots, and lots of teasing about her affection over Ash. Her parents were relentless on bringing how nice Ash was or how handsome he looked, something which even she can't deny herself.

"I know, I'm sorry what I did, all the times we could have spend together as a family-" The guilt-ridden tone in her voice was swiftly hushed by her father. He gently stroke Sabrina's lilac hair, and cupped her cheek with a fatherly smile.

"There's nothing to apologize about sweetheart, it's not your fault. It was mine, I should have stopped you from practicing your empathetic abilities yet I pushed you to keep practicing them. Look honey, right now, your mother and I want you to be happy, and I could tell you found it in Ash, I mean look at you! Already blushing just by mentioning his name. I could see why, he is your saviour, he is kind, has great potential as a trainer and quite dashing too. You know who he reminds me off? Me!" Ignoring her father's thunderous laugh and her mother's glare at her father, Sabrina huffed and denied everything her father just said though the rosy red cheeks betrayed her.

"Dadddd, stop it okay? You guys better not embarrass me in front of him when he gets here." Earning nods from her parents who were grinning from ear to ear. Sabrina took a deep breath and stared at her pokeballs that were on the table, waiting for her to release them. This is it, this is life. She now gets to enjoy life, to be happy, to experience anger and grief. Everything that she thought she couldn't experience ever again is now all so real.

"Nervous kiddo?" Sabrina's father sat next to her as he held onto her hand, her mother doing the same as she sat on the other side. Nodding to her parents, she felt the excitement of going on a pokemon journey slowly began to turn into anxiety and fear. What if Ash and his friends won't accept her? What if they reject her from joining on their journey? What if they are afraid of her? Did they view her as a cold-hearted monster? How would she cope with other people who would judge her harshly?

"Don't be, that Ketchum kid has a good heart, you know I'm right about this, or I else I won't even let you go near him." Sabrina nodded with a smile, leaning her head on her father's shoulder as she sat on her mother's lap. She absentmindedly played with Sabrina's hair and sighed when her husband caressed their daughter's hand warmly.

"Give us a call if you miss us okay? We will always be in touch." Sabrina nodded to her mother's words, they provided her a sense of relief. She wasn't about to cry, not again anyways, she done plenty of that last night when she slept with her parents, wanting to be as close to them as possible. Sabrina closed her eyes and enjoyed the warmth and love of her family, it felt unreal yet pleasant at the same time. A knock on the door caused the family to lose their composure, Sabrina almost fell down considering she was in such a content state. Holding back a chuckle, Sabrina's father went and opened the door, revealing his gym assistant smiling at him.

"Sir, Ash and his friends are here." Sabrina's smile was bittersweet, dear arceus she would miss her parents. She gave them a longing look with her mother picking up her backpack and handed it to her. Savouring the gentle caress her mother gave on her cheeks, Sabrina held onto her parents hands and slowly walked out of the room.

"I don't think I'm ready for this." Sabrina's lack of confidence didn't surprise her parents, here she is, a girl who experienced no emotions for such a long time now regain them so suddenly, being thrust into the vast world of pokemon with people she just met that are very possibly scared of her. The fear of the unknown, the unthinkable outcomes.

"You will be fine Sabrina, have faith." The 13 year old girl nodded as she walked towards the battle arena of the gym where Ash and co stood. Her eyes met Ash and almost in an instant, the urge to give him a hug to say '"thank you for everything" was strong. Of course she refrained that, anyone could tell that it would only embarrass Ash and herself and make the young Waterflower jealous.

Not that she mind it though.

"Ash, Brock, Misty." Sabrina's father nodded at the group, he let go of Sabrina's hand and stared at Ash. His hardened and intense stare to Ash makes you think that if he was approving Ash dating his daughter but the young boy stood there oblivious and not intimidated at the slightest, he merely just smiled in glee.

"I'm trusting my daughter to you Ash." Not catching the hidden meaning behind those words, Ash only nodded as he accepted the responsibility of Sabrina's well-being and happiness. Sabrina however couldn't help but blush by her father's words, she felt the urge to punch his shoulder just for putting it like that. It sounded so- straightforward! Using her psychic powers, she sensed her father's enjoyment of teasing her and Ash. Scowling at her father's immaturity, she sent a small psychic shock to her father causing him to jolt from the pain.

'Fine I will stop it geez, can't an old man have some fun?' Smiling internally at her father's telepathic words, she gave him a firm "NO" to which he grumbled like a child.

"I will look after Sabrina sir." Sabrina's father clasped Ash's shoulders tight, shaking it lightly to give his approval. He turned to Brock and gave him a handshake.

'Thank you Brock, you have no idea how much it means to me.' Not surprised hearing Sabrina's father's voice in his head, Brock replied back.

'Your welcome, but if you want to thank, thank Ash for opening my eyes.' Smiling at Ash, Sabrina's father nodded again and nodded at Misty as thanks.

That is when Sabrina's mother approached Ash and knelt down slightly to Ash's level, giving him a hug surprising both parties. It mostly shocked Brock though considering he was interested in older women.

"Ash, I hope you can make Sabrina happy and make her feel like a little girl, she finds it hard to express herself and show her emotions after what happened. I know I'm asking a lot but please make her happy, my husband and I will forever be in your debt Ash." The older woman whispered softly to Ash, Ash blushed slightly and nodded as he felt that she let go. His face flushed with embarrassment and flattery.

"Don't worry! I will make sure she stays happy!" Whispering back to Sabrina's mother so that no one can't hear them. Sabrina's mother smiled at the young trainer's words and bowed to him in thanks, making Ash feel slightly awkward. Although deep down, the young trainer felt the immense responsibility for Sabrina's happiness and well being. He would do what he can for her to make sure she becomes bubbly and cheerful, it wasn't a burden at all, if anything he would be more than happy to make sure his friends stay happy.

After exchanging their thanks for each other, Sabrina's parents turn to their daughter and smiled at her.

"Well this is it sweetheart." Sabrina fought back the tears that began forming in her eyes, the thought of leaving her home and family came crashing back down to her.

"I will look after the gym in your absence, so don't worry about it okay?" Sabrina's father hugged her as she nodded, returning the hug.

"You will always be our little girl Sabrina, we love you so much." Sabrina's mother went to hug Sabrina too, prompting her to cry her eyes out. Sabrina didn't say anything but the silence was all the family needed.

"Let's go outside guys." Brock ushered Ash and Misty to the door, Misty who was unusually quiet followed Brock's lead as she herself was trying to stop tears forming in her eyes, seeing Sabrina with her parents really pulled her heart strings, she tends to get emotional when it comes to family.

"Brock you mind if I uh, call my mom?" Ash spoke somewhat quietly, nodding to the young trainer's words Brock felt pikachu jumped onto his shoulder, wanting to give his trainer some privacy. Brock stared at Ash who took his cap down and walked towards the pokemon center, his fists were clenched tight from stopping the emotions from pouring out.

It wasn't long before the group came together, Sabrina stood comfortably next to Ash with her hands behind her back, the bright morning sun seemed to mark a positive sign to all things to come in the future. Waving goodbye to her family, the group slowly walked away from busy city of Saffron until it was out of sight. As the group walk, the very thick atmosphere of silence and awkwardness filled the air, pikachu stared between Ash and Sabrina as the two seemed to be the most tense, he swore he could see a thick fog surrounding them both.

'Say something Ash! Say something!' Ash's mind was put to halt, his inability to conjure words and sentences only made the atmosphere so tense, why couldn't he just say "welcome to the team Sabrina" or "Onwards to the next pokemon gym!"?

"So Sabrina, you had breakfast?" Deciding that food is a good conversation opener, Ash gave Sabrina his signature smile that brighten up anyone's day, hoping that she would warm up to the idea of traveling. He knew that she was nervous, and this was probably her first journey as a trainer, no longer tied down to her gym leader duties. He knew how nerve wrecking it could be and he was determined to have Sabrina ease up to the group. She was not outsider or stranger, she is a friend.

The pretty psychic nodded back in a bashful manner, which was out of character even for her. She wasn't sure why Ash's words or presence cause her to act so weirdly, but it was a welcoming change in her life. To able to hangout and travel with your crush who saved you from the powers you doom yourself with is an awesome experience for the empath, so to experience these newfound emotions after coming her emotionless shell was a bit much for her.

Ash smiled lightly at her nod, honestly she did look adorable like that. However, the awkward silence soon returned to the group with Misty giving Brock a look. Knowing what she meant by that, he cleared his throat and put on a cheery look, hoping his boisterous tone would dispel the still silence that plagued them.

"Hey, why don't we let our pokemon out? Might as well introduce our newest member in the group right?" Ash smiled brightly at the suggestion and nodded enthusiastically, he instantly released his pokemon earning multiple cries of joy from them. The psychic trainer stared at Ash's pokemon and was impressed by his roster, he has all 3 Kanto starter pokemon in his arsenal, no doubt he would make it far in the pokemon league, something which she would dedicate herself to.

"Wow Ash, you have some really strong pokemon." Sabrina's voice was soft to Ash's ears, it was almost unbelievable that she was the dominating trainer that was capable of wiping out his entire team with just her Kadabra. Her compliment was well received by Ash's team of pokemon, they hopped lightly and cheered, agreeing to what she said about their strength. The small smile plastered on her face strangely caused a small blush to Ash's cheeks, though he did not realized it himself.

'Wow she is pretty when she smiles ...' Sabrina turned to Ash, bearing a curious look, wondering if Ash was about to say something back to her after complimenting him. She caused his gaze that was fixated on her and the small blush on his cheeks, add on with her emphatic powers and she put two and two together. She felt flattered and was quite happy at the reaction she got from him just by a mere compliment.

"W-Well uh thanks, why don't you let your pokemon out Sabrina, I would love to see them." Not wanting to be in the spotlight much longer, Ash hastily diverted the attention back to Sabrina. She nodded with the slightest hesitation, a little embarrassed with so many eyes on her. She threw her pokeballs out, instantly releasing her team of psychic pokemon and the mischevious ghost type who shouted "I live once more" in a dramatic manner. Upon noticing his former trainer, Haunter's eyes gleamed in delight and when to Ash to give him a ghostly lick.

"Haha okay haunter stop!" Haunter stopped his assault on Ash and stared at his psychic mistress, and shot her the smuggest look she had ever seen from a pokemon. His eyes darted between her and Ash and wiggled his eyebrows in a knowing manner, prompting her to scowl at the ghost type's meaning and intentions. She dropped her look quickly when she noticed her kadabra was analyzing Ash with great detail, almost as if he was seeing through his soul.

"So this is the boy who saved our mistress... interesting." Kadabra's voiced out his words in a classy manner, fully approving Ash's stature and spirit. Pikachu perching on Ash's shoulder faithfully caught his attention, and he smiled at how loyal and regal the electric mouse looked.

"And we are travelling with him too! Lady Sabrina must be overjoyed!" Her happy go lucky Natu chirped as he danced around in joy. Misty giggled at the cute young bird pokemon who hopped around in circles while Brock merely smiled, although they can't hear what he was saying, they knew it was off joy and laughter judging by their look.

"Wow your pokemon are awesome Sabrina!" This time it was Sabrina who was blushing after hearing how excited and ecstatic he sounded. He knelt down to get a good look on her pokemon, who looked at him curiously. They already knew who he was, their trainer never stopped gushi- mentioning about him, but to see him in person was quite amusing. They thought he would be taller, mature or older but who were they to judge. Her pokemon which consist of her energetic Natu, fearless Kadabra and elegant Espeon.

"Thanks Ash, I got them ever since I was a little girl, they have been with me ever since." Sabrina petted Kadabra's head and hugged her espeon and natu with her other arm, making them coo in response. He smiled at the display and smiled wider when he saw his own pokemon curiously walking towards Sabrina's as they exchanged greetings, Sabrina's natu was especially excited to see Ash's pokemon, seeing that he never really see other pokemon before.

"Hiya guys I'm natu! The only cheerful one of the group!" Ash's Bulbasaur stared at the young bird in front of him before cracking a smile. He honestly thought all psychic pokemon are all stuck up and arrogant judging from his previous experiences with them, he was glad that he was wrong about it now.

"I'm Bulbasaur, I am responsible for making sure no one in the group do something stupid." Referring to Squirtle who was talking to Kadabra, the Kanto water starter pokemon borrowed his sunglasses to the psychic pokemon who shook his head in disgust, the last thing he wants is to wear an object that boost the power of dark type. Darkness of the soul that could corrupt the mind, volatile and unnatural.

"A pleasure meeting you then Bulbasaur." The sweet voice of Sabrina's Espeon caused Bulbasaur to stammer out his thanks to the pretty feline pokemon. She was definitely the prettiest and most slender female pokemon he had ever seen in his life, which made him a tad bit uncomfortable.

"It's okay buddy, every male pokemon does that in front of Ester over here when they first see her. You have no idea how many times she have to use psychic just to get rid of the annoying pokemon who won't take a hint or rejection." Natu chuckled at the flustered Bulbasaur, which deepened the shade of his blush. His teammates chuckled and snickered at his falter, though they didn't blame him considering they too were affected by the Espeon's charm.

"Well I say that your pokemon are bonding nicely with Ash's Sabrina!" Brock smiled at the interaction of the pokemon, things seems to go swimmingly for the group. Ash's pokemon seemed to be quite fond of Sabrina's team.

"Y-Yeah I wonder why." Sabrina let out a nervous smile as she rubbed her arms, something which our ever so observant Brock noticed. He didn't think much about it, but it was something to take note of. She was shy, insecure and introverted, so it might take some time for her to warm up to them.

'She just got back all of her emotions, she just needs some time.' Deciding that puberty was also another factor, Brock knew the hormones of one body could drastically change the mood of a person.

"You know Ash, now that Sabrina is here, it's time to see if you truly deserve the Marshbadge." Ash was taken aback by Misty's haughty voice, he turned towards her and she bear a cocky looking grin plastered on her face. He glanced towards Sabrina who blinked at Misty words, the realization soon hit her when she figured out Misty's intentions. While she has no intention to deny the match, she certainly felt that she could absolutely crush Ash with her team of pokemon. He was no means a bad trainer, but compared her to him, well let's just say he stood little to no chance, even with a Haunter who knows shadow ball by his side. Still, she didn't want to deny Ash the chance, and even if he lost to her, the Marshbadge is rightfully his. Some may call it bias at the fact that he didn't win fair and square, but she couldn't give a crap about that. Gym leaders don't just only test their opponent's strength, they test their bond with their pokemon, their dedication and love for life as well, something which Ash have plenty in him.

Though deep down, her infatuation over Ash was more than enough to give him the badge.

"Misty's right Sabrina, I didn't win fair and square, so is it okay we have a battle?" Sabrina nodded at how confident he looked, he was determined to win for sure and that was something she liked about him.

"Sure." At that moment, Sabrina's pokemon grinned at Ash's pokemon rearing to battle them again. Admittedly, Haunted was raring to go again, he stared at Kadabra, a sinister looking smile crept onto his face, time to finish what he started.

"Oooh yes! I get to battle again! Watch out kadabra, I'm looking forward beating you!" Kadabra snorted in a high and mighty manner, he levitated of the ground with his spoon floating in the air aimlessly.

"Don't be so overconfident haunter, I would decimate you in the battle." Toying around with his spoon, Kadabra smirked at the enigmatic ghost type who seemed to be unfazed by Kadabra's cool and confident tone. Something about beating cocky opponents to a pulp excites him.

"Yes Kadabra, you're not overconfident whatsoever." Squirtle sarcasm didn't went unnoticed, he leaned onto the unsuspecting kadabra and decided slapped his sunglasses to the prideful kadabra's eyes, causing everyone one to laugh when the psychic pokemon fell off to the ground and began to shout out profanities to the mischievous water type starter.

"Well personally I'm not against it, but I think you guys should save it later until we find a nice big empty space, the last thing I want is the trees to be uprooted and destroy the environment." Chuckling at the thought, Brock pulled out his map and began to put markings on different locations that were deemed important as he carefully planned everything.

"Brock's right, we can wait until later right Ash?" Ash nodded at Sabrina, a bit disappointed that the battle between need to be held off for the time being.

"Do you guys want to stay out of your pokeballs?" Asking his beloved pokemon, they nodded their heads vigorously not wanting to be trap in that contraption. They were out on the open roads, where fresh air is abundant with different sites to see.

"How about you guys? Do you feel the same?" Sabrina asked her pokemon who all nodded along with Ash's, they glanced towards each other and grin, hoping to get to know of each other. Ash smiled at Sabrina's gesture and complimented her for doing the same, that innocent and genuine smiles of his just somehow makes her feel appreciated and loved. It drew a bashful nod from her and a small adorable blush, something which Charmander noticed right away.

'"Hey guys? Do you think Sabrina has a crush on Ash?" Charmander looked at his friends as he pointed his claw at Sabrina's reaction to Ash's compliment, his teammates followed his claw and indeed he was right, the red tint on her cheeks and the fact she was rubbing her shoes together were enough of an indication.

"We aren't seeing things right?" There's no way that a pretty teen like Sabrina would blush from a mere compliment by their dense trainer right?!

"Natu does your mistress-" Bulbasaur started out slowly as he whispered to the young bird.

"Likes Ash? Yeah." Natu gave out a nonchalant reply, almost anticipating the question. His answer caused the grass type starter to widen his eyes with the others smiling in approval. Ash's ability to attract girls of his age was extraordinary, though they weren't surprised at why Sabrina had a crush on their trainer considering he did saved her life.

"Well I guess Misty isn't the only one who likes Ash." Squirtle spoke to no one in particular while staring at Misty who seemed to be taking a sip of cool water from her bottle.

'Isn't Sabrina a bit too old for Ash?' Charmander cocked his head to aside as he pondered about it, just by looking at Sabrina and Ash's height already makes it look pretty funny, she was taller than Ash by a head. Was Sabrina into younger boys?

"Well you know what they say! When it comes to love, age is no boundary." Pikachu nonchalantly, not really bothered by their age differences. The two have more things in common than in differences that's for sure.

"I agree with pikachu, besides Sabrina is only 3 years older than Ash, that's not a lot." Espeon personally finds it adorable that her mistress has a crush on the energetic and determine boy from Pallet. This was probably her first crush, which concerned Espeon just slightly given that this was a new type of emotion for her trainer.

"Well personally I'm okay with it, but good luck to Sabrina if she wants to get her feelings across, Ash has an ability called oblivious." Squirtle's statement were spot on with his teammates nodding in agreement, Sabrina's pokemon stared at her sympathetically, she just got out of her emotionless shell and if she was about to get her feelings across to a individual who is denser than matter itself, then there might be a little problem.

"Relax guys, both of them are still young, there's no need to rush. Besides, it's not like Ash can't stay 10 forever." Natu chirped, reassuring the gang that everything would work out if time deemed it so. He wasn't exactly looking towards his trainer dating with Ash since she have other priorities in life.

'I guess you're right, I'm pretty sure love is not on top of Ash's priority list either.' The rest of the group nodded as they looked on the interaction between Ash and Sabrina, both of them were laughing as Ash told her a joke that he made up, hoping to get to know Sabrina better. Between the jokes and the playful banter the two shared, Kadabra just smiled at how happy his trainer was, its been so long since she laughed in a genuine manner.

"I'm glad our mistress met Ash and you haunter." Kadabra's tone were both soft and low, which was rare for the normally high and mighty psychic pokemon. The ghost type raised his eyebrows before cracking a smile, floating over the psychic pokemon with a wide grin.

"Hey don't get so sappy and sentimental man, I'm glad that my stupid jokes and stunts are able to help your mistress out." Giving him a ghostly pat on the back, kadabra loosened up a smile.

"You know, even though I'm not a psychic pokemon, I bet these two are made for one another." Everyone stared at squirtle incredulously, baffled by his bold statement that seemed sudden, which it was.

"That's erm, a bold thing to say squirtle." Charmander stared at his water type friend who knew he drew too much attention to himself.

"I don't know man, I just know that these two are meant for each other you know? Call me crazy but I feel that Ash has something unique about him, something similar to Sabrina's but different." Sabrina's pokemon stared at the water type pokemon, he sensed it too? For a non psychic pokemon to pick up raw energies is unheard of, and they thought they were crazy.

'Now that you mentioned up, I did feel something strange in Ash, like a power that is still dormant within him but I never voiced it out due to the fact that I wasn't certain.' Espeon's tone was filled with mysteriousness and concern, her bright blue eyes stared at Ash who was busy petting pikachu on the back, if she had to be honest, she was quite envious of pikachu.

"Are you sure about this Espeon? I mean this is Ash we are talking about here." The thought of his trainer having some immense power scared Charmander, it frightened him.

"I can confirm Ester's statement, even though my psychic powers haven't manifest to her level yet, I can sense a bit of... strangeness in Ash. For that to happen to a low level psychic pokemon like me, Ash's powers must be really special even when it lies dormant." Espeon rubbed natu's head softly with her paw, not wanting to believe that natu was a low level psychic pokemon, if anything he was better than her at his current age. He has immense potential should he be honed right.

"If that is the case then we best look after them with caution." Pikachu frowned slightly, eavesdropping their conversation with his sensitive ears. Does Ash really have some sort of hidden power inside of him? Sure, Ash seems like he has the ability to befriend almost every pokemon he meets and are able to bring out the best of them, but to have a mysterious power similar to Sabrina's? It worried him a little. Is he a psychic too?

"Any clue on what kind of power it is? I mean you guys are psychic types, so you all should be the brightest." Haunter circled around an annoyed natu as he spoke in a teasing voice. It was clear that despite his laidback tone, Haunter was also concerned and worried for his trainer whom he was quite attached to.

"There are many types of power in this world, the only one I could think off that is similar to psychic type is- but I highly doubt it, only a select few-" Kadabra was rudely interrupted by an impatient squirtle.

"Just spit it out already geez, don't leave it half way." Kadabra scoffed at him and was about to continue.

'So what kind of power is it kadabra?' Bulbasaur stared intensely at the psychic type, wanting to know what gifts Ash has that fate bestowed upon him. Sighing at how he was interrupted again, Kadabra paused for a moment to prevent further interruption, with seconds passed and with all eyes of curiosity landing on him in pure silence, he continued.

"Have you all heard of aura?" Seeing a symphony of heads being shook, Kadabra grunted, expecting that much from pokemon who do not read human history or books.

"Aura to put it simply, is basically life force itself." He spoke coolly, though he embraced the millions questions that his comrades would toss at him.

"Life force?"

"You know that we pokemon have typings and powers right? Some of us are the elemental type like water, fire and electric, others are the nature force type like fighting, dragon, flying and normal. Then, there is the supernatural type with Psychic, dark and ghost. Ash, your trainer falls in that category, but burrowing a few properties from the other two as well." Charmander stared at Squirtle who seemed to frown at the revelation, they knew what those terms were, what worried them was what they meant to a human like Ash.

"Basically he's like a psychic, but a bit of the others?" Kadabra smiled at the lack of confusion and nodded curtly.

"I suppose, aura is predominantly practiced by the Lucario line, a fighting steel type native to the Sinnoh region who mastered the usage of aura. Life force, chi, spirit energy are among its other names."

"Then by your logic, shouldn't Ash be more of a nature force type guy rather than a supernatural type guy? Since Lucarios are fighting types?"

"Well, remember when I said Ash's abilities is quite similar to Sabrina's?" Haunter simply nodded, his stomach churned at the though of Ash falling to the same fate like Sabrina.

"Yeah."

"Sabrina is a natural born psychic, Ash is, well let's just hypothetically say an "Aura user". My theory is that either Ash was chosen to be born with the power, much like Sabrina or is a descendant of a practitioner of aura." Ash being the descendant of someone who practiced Aura? Doesn't sound exactly far-fetched considering they don't know who Ash's dad even is.

"That still doesn't explain why you said he leaned towards the psychic side of his powers and not the fighting type one when his powers is similar to Lucario." Kadabra wry smile was up for display, boy did Squirtle love to interrupt and bring up points that begged him to explain further.

"I'm getting there. When you pour water into a bottle of glass, does the water takes the shape after the bottle?" The pokemon stared at him incredulously, what kind of dumb question was that?

"Yeah duh?"

"If I pour water into a bucket, it takes the shape of a bucket correct?"

"Yeah, why are you asking us that?"

"Similar to Ash, if Sabrina were to be the one to unlock Ash's dormant powers, Ash's power would be awakened by Sabrina's raw strength, and take the form of her powers in some way or form. We all know that energy cannot be destroyed but it can be converted or transferred."

"So you're saying because Sabrina is a psychic, Ash would have a little psychic powers too?"

"Yes, in theory, people are born with extrasensory abilities, some more so than others. Your powers can be easily awaken by someone who's abilities is much higher than yours, in our example, it would be Ash and Sabrina, through enough rigorous training and dedication, you will eventually bend a spoon with your mind. I think the reason Sabrina was able to smile and laugh again, is not only because of Haunter who made her laugh, but because of Ash's presence and his abilities. The presence of a foreign force that rivals Sabrina's, even if it lies dormant."

"You know it might make sense, Sabrina's father tried to make her laugh for years, from cracking dad jokes or pulling off funny stunts, to even hiring stand-up comedians, yet he failed to even grasp her attention. Ash and Haunter managed to make her laugh and giggle like a little school girl just by their first try."

"It kinda make sense, I don't think the stunts I did were really that special either, and she most probably have seen most of them since most challengers she faces often bring ghost type pokemon to fight her, and my line is the only ghost type native to Kanto."

"Precisely, Ash's dormant power must have dispelled Sabrina's alter ego and caused her to loose her grip onto Sabrina, returning her back to the light."

"But how on earth does he do that? He didn't chant any mantras or use any spells to do anything! He just walks in and challenge Sabrina like normal."

"Sabrina's emotionless state came from her obsession of mastering her psychic powers at a young age, it formed an obsession that plagued the mind and corrupts the mental state of a person. Now tell me, what pokemon have the characteristics of corruption, distortion and chaos?"

"That would be dark type pokemon."

"And Ash's powers are solely based on?"

"Lucario who is both fighting and steel!"

"And fighting beats dark with steel resisting dark as well."

"Exactly, remember Ash has the aid of life force with him, which is dedicated to preserve life and ensure peace and stability. My guess is Ash's powers drove the insane and mentally unstable part of Sabrina away and cast out her inner "demons" or lowering its grip on Sabrina, allowing the mental barriers of her emotions to be weakened. Haunter's funny antics is simply the finishing blow, forever shattering the puppet who was controlling her."

"Damn and Ash kept praising me for what I did while it was he himself who did it."

"I doubt he realizes his own abilities, he probably thinks he is just an average kid with high hopes and dreams."

"So it must be destiny that brought them together. I mean what of the odds of Sabrina, the most powerful psychic in the world, meeting up with Ash, who might be the only human who knows how to use aura!" Natu chirped in an exciting manner, he was very interested in what the future had in store for them.

"I would like to believe that, who knows? Their initial friendship with each other might blossom into something more deeper. With ESP (Extrasensory perception) being so focused on feeling connections and bonds with the world around us, Sabrina could be connected to Ash in a mental sense. If fate were to push them together, then I'm certain that something bad is on the horizon."

"That sounds rather ominous Kadabra geez." Charmander didn't want to think about what perils they would face, it was already bad enough that Ash is some kind of special person who can manipulate life force to his will.

"For every action there would be a reaction, there must be a reason why Ash and Sabrina ended up together." Kadabra's tone was not to be taken lightly, Bulbasaur simply stared at the psychic pokemon before him and sighed, this was too much to take in for one day.

"Oh well we worry about that later when the time comes, I bet you 10 pokeblocks that the two would become an item by the end of the journey."

"So what do we do now? Do you think Sabrina herself knows about Ash's abilities?"

"I would say yes, but in reality I don't know. If she does knows about it, it might explain why she came with on his journey, but even if she doesn't, chances are she wants to join his journey because she has a crush on him after the whole fiasco." Seeing the pokemon mischievous grins and smirks, Espeon giggled lightly at Kadabra's deadpanned look.

"Hey man, that's a good enough reason."

"But if Ash has powers similar to Sabrina, would Ash fall into the same state Sabrina was in?" Pikachu perked up, surprising everyone given he was silent through the conversation. His tone was laced with worry and fear, which was understandable given that he was Ash closest friend.

"No, unless he lust for power and obsession gets the best of him. As long as we don't tell him, I think he will be fine. Ignorance is a bliss after all." The pokemon felt uncomfortable at how right Kadabra was, yet at the same time they knew they could break the dynamic of the journey should Ash knows about his special heritage.

"You're right Kadabra, for now let's keep this to ourselves." Pikachu glanced at Sabrina, it seems like she was too preoccupied with Ash to know they were talking about. He was relieved by that, the last thing they want is for her to asked question and be alarmed by it.

"Oh come on Ash, you're not that bad with directions right?" Sabrina refused to believe that Ash could get lost in Viridian forest with the trail and markers layout for beginner trainers so they won't get lost. That place wasn't a labyrinth, just follow the beaten path and you would reach Viridan city in no time, not that difficult!

"I bet Ash got lost in his own house before." Misty grinned at Ash who blushed in embarrassment, sensing the young trainer's embarrassment, Sabrina laughed to her heart's content. She didn't take joy at laughing at Ash's suffering, well, maybe once in a while.

"Seriously Ash?" Ash mumbled something about "sleep walking" and "half asleep".

"I was young okay!" He shouted in annoyance, fed up with how much he was being grilled and made fun of. Sabrina felt somewhat sorry for the young trainer, she awkwardly touched Ash's shoulder and smiled at him, with a smile that really suited her.

"It's fine Ash, I'm sorry for laughing, everyone has embarrassing moments in life so don't feel to bad about it." She comforted in a warm manner, and it worked marvelously since Ash wasn't fuming anymore. He chuckled lightly and scratched the back of his head with a small smile.

"Thanks Sabrina." Noticing her hand was still on Ash's shoulder, she hastily put her hand down and put them behind her back as shyly averted her gaze from Ash. Her reaction drew much attention from the pokemon, with even the stoic Kadabra finding it cute.

"Yeah, I could totally see them being together." Pikachu smiled slightly as he jump to Sabrina's shoulder, making her yelp in surprise. In an instant. she held the adorable electric mouse and felt him nuzzling her hand, making her squeal in delight seeing how adorable and affection he was.

"Well pikachu never did that to anyone before." Ash muttered as he watched on his starter getting pampered and spoiled by the pretty psychic/

'I wonder why did pikachu suddenly did that.' Ash is sure on one thing though, Sabrina was definitely cute when she hugged pikachu.