While Ash was flying about there was something else entirely going on now in another dimension. In that very dimension were all of the Legendary Pokémon. From the Legendary Birds of Kanto to the Tao trio of Unova. "Welcome everyone" called a soft voice. They all turned to see Arceus, the God of Pokémon appear before them. "I shall now explain why I have gathered you all here."

"But we're not all here yet" said a small chipper voice. It was the small little Grass/Psychic type Legendary Pokémon known as Celebi as she zoomed around the room. "Latios and Latias have not yet arrived."

"And another thing" a massive Pokémon said. The Pokémon was a sauropod-like Pokémon that was mostly blue with silver in some spots, massive horns and fangs. It was Dialga the Pokémon of time. "Why is he here" Dialga said in disgust looking at another Pokémon in the room. This Pokémon looked part humanoid with large feet and skinny arms with a long tail.

Arceus seemed to glare at Dialga, "I've told you time and time again Dialga and you should understand since you are the Master of Time that Mewtwo is one of us. He may have been created by humans, but he had no choice in the matter. It is not his fault and the sooner you understand that the better." Dialga merely snorted while Mewtwo acted stoic. "Anyway the reason I have called you here is because of Latios and Latias."

"What's wrong? Did something happen to them" a soft feminine voice asked. It was the voice of one of the Legendary Beasts of Johto called Suicune. Suicune was blue in color with purple lining down its chest and what looked like white ribbons down its chest.

"No nothing bad has happened" Arceus said. "The reason they are not here is because they have been captured by a trainer." That caused an almost instant uproar from most of the Legendaries. "SILENCE" Arceus bellowed and there was instant silence in the room. "Now" Arceus continued in a softer voice, "If you have a comment then please go one at a time in a civilized manner."

"How could they allow themselves to be captured by a human" was said by a giant whale shaped Pokémon with flying wings and red lines going around it. It was one of the weather trio named Kyogre.

"It was not just any trainer... but the chosen one" Arceus said and that caused some eyes to widen.

"You mean Ash" said a massive Pokémon with silver fur named Lugia. Arceus nodded, "What did Ash do to make Latios and Latias join him?"

"Nothing" Arceus said to their surprise. "They volunteered to go with him."

"They've gone soft" said a cold voice. It was the voice of the nightmare Pokémon decked in all black with a single glowing eye barely visible under the white mane on its head. It was Darkrai the pitch black Pokémon. "What kind of Legendary let themselves be captured?"

"Be careful before you judge Darkrai" Arceus said. "I have steadily kept an eye on Ash ever since he was born. He has the purest soul since Sir Aaron. Mew I'm sure you remember Sir Aaron and Mewtwo I know you can attest to the purity of Ash's soul."

Both Legendaries nodded in consent and Mewtwo spoke, "It is true. I always thought humans were the scum of the earth, but Ash managed to convince me otherwise. When I fought Mew, Ash sacrificed himself to save the Pokémon while I merely pitted them against each other."

"I am still not convinced" Darkrai said in its cold voice. "What does this so called chosen one look like?" Arceus formed a screen and it allowed them to witness the human world. They got a full look of Latios and Latias flying through the air smiling and cooing happily with Ash on Latios' back enjoying the view of the landscape.

"Thanks again guys" Ash said. "If it wasn't for you guys and your hard work then we'd have never won the Johto League."

'Don't be so modest Ash' Latios said telepathically, but all legendaries could hear him. 'You worked just as hard as we did to win. We all did it.'

'Brother's right Ash' Latios cooed telepathically. 'I got stronger because of you. You inspired me to get stronger and I thank you every day for that.'

Ash blushed slightly, but smiled happily, "Thanks... both of you."

'It's no problem Ash' Latios said. Privately he thought to himself, 'Like I told you before. It's the least I can do for you for you after you saved my life.' Every single legendary heard Latios' thought and they were surprised.

"What did Latios mean when he said Ash saved his life" the massive phoenix shaped bird called Ho-oh asked.

"Exactly how it sounds" Arceus said. "It was back in the city of Altomare where they both resided. Two humans stole the Soul Dew and caused a giant tidal wave to appear and it almost flattened the city. Latios and Latias went out to stop the tidal wave and because the Soul Dew had been out of its sanctuary for too long Latios' father's soul ended up being separated from the Soul Dew and Latios was prepared to sacrifice himself and become the new Soul Dew, but Latias, bless her innocent soul, thought of an idea to restore their father's soul to the Soul Dew and save Latios. She went to Ash and asked for help. Ash immediately agreed and went with Latias to help save Latios. Latios even warned Ash that if he tried to help and if something went wrong then he would die. Ash didn't care; he said that Latios was his friend and that he would sacrifice his life if it was too help a friend. With that thought in his mind and pain going through his body during the whole process they managed to save Latios and restore the Soul Dew and save Altomare. Latias had wanted to go with Ash after the events and Latios agreed after making sure the Soul Dew was safe and Latios went with them. Latios figured that the only way he could repay Ash for his selflessness is to help him realize his dream and in the end the three of them became close friends."

There was silence when Arceus finished his tale, "While I cannot deny that he is a special human" Darkrai said, "But that story sounds too incredible to believe."

"Well Darkrai if it sounds so unbelievable to you then confront them for yourself" Arceus said. "You will battle him and if you end up losing you will be his Pokémon and this goes for everyone here who decides to confront Ash.

Darkrai and the others were silent for a few seconds, "Agreed" Darkrai said after a while and soon the others nodded as well and gave out muttered agreements.

Arceus nodded, "Very well... that is all I wished to inform you of. Latios and Latias will now only be joining us in meetings when it is most dire. Other than that the rest of you know where to find them if you wish to speak to them. Dismissed" Arceus said and he and the other Legendaries dispersed.

After about twenty minutes of flying through the air Ash could tell that they had just passed into the Kanto Region and by the looks of it Pallet town was about 30 minutes from where they were at by walking. "Latios, let's land here" Ash said. Latios nodded and went down towards the ground. Latias followed them and when they got closer to the ground Ash hopped off.

'Why are we stopping' Latias asked telepathically.

"Pallet town is close by in easy walking distance and I figured you two would want to explore around the area" Ash said. "I like walking anyway so it's no big deal."

'Thank you Ash' Latias said telepathically and she immediately began flying around exploring the area, but not going too far. Ash and Latios chuckled at her enthusiasm. "C'mon brother" Latias cooed in POKESPEECH.

Latios looked at Ash and Ash could understand, "Go on Latios have some fun. Of all Pokémon you deserve it." Latios cooed its thanks and flew off with Latias and began exploring as well. Ash and Pikachu continued their walk with Latios and Latias in close range. "Well Pikachu we've accomplished part of what we've been hoping for."

"Pika" Pikachu nodded with a smile.

"Now the only question left is where to go next" Ash said as he stopped and looked at the sky a bit as he and Pikachu exited the forest area into an open field with a few walkways here and there. ash could see Pallet Town in the distance. "Harrison did talk about the Hoenn Region" Ash said quietly.

"Pikachu, pika pi Pikachu" Pikachu said. (The Hoenn Region?)

Ash nodded, "Yeah" Ash said looking out into the distance and made up his mind, "The Hoenn Region... that's where all the battles I'm destined to fight in are waiting for me." Then Ash smiled, "After a short visit back home we'll set out for the Hoenn Region."

"Pi pi pika, Pikachu" Pikachu agreed with a smile. (Hoenn Region here we come.)

Immediately after they said that and began continuing on their trip home did Ash feel a chilling presence wash over him making him stop in his tracks. Pikachu seemed to be sensing it to as he started to shiver. Ash picked Pikachu up and held him close, "What's going on" he said quietly looking around.

Latios and Latias were still zooming around playfully when they also felt a chilling presence albeit not as powerful since they weren't close enough to it, but they did recognize it. "That dark aura... it couldn't be" Latios said in POKESPEECH.

"Ash" Latias cried as she zoomed back towards him and Latios followed shortly after with both of them looking worried.

Ash then looked up and saw something hovering above. It was a dark thing with a flowing white mane fluttering in the breeze with a single turquoise eye visible. "Is that a Pokémon" Ash asked himself shivering slightly from the cold presence the Pokémon put out. Ash pulled out his Pokedex and pointed it at the mystery being.

Dexter's mechanical voice sounded out "Pokémon unknown: No data available."

"No data" Ash muttered wide eyed. The Pokémon lowered itself until it was a few feet from Ash and Ash felt like he was just dropped in arctic water as the Pokémon stared deep into his eyes. Ash held a shivering Pikachu tighter and took a step back as the mystery Pokémon floated closer to Ash.

Two loud cries got Ash's attention as Latios and Latias appeared in front of Ash cutting off the mystery Pokémon's gaze from Ash. Latios seemed to be glaring at the mystery Pokémon "Darkrai" Latios hissed "What are you doing here in Kanto?"

"Arceus has informed us of what happened with you and Latias" Darkrai said. "And I for one cannot believe the story he told us about you two unless I fully see what this kid is capable off."

Ash couldn't understand a word they were saying, but he did hear Latios growl slightly "Latios, what's going on? What is that Pokémon?"

'I am Darkrai, human' Darkrai said telepathically to Ash making his eyes widen. 'Do not assume that Latios and Latias are the only Pokémon able to communicate with humans telepathically.'

"Darkrai" Ash said testing the name. Darkrai nodded, "Why are you here Darkrai? What do you want?"

'I shall only tell you if you can defeat me in a one on one battle' Darkrai said. 'If you are victorious I will join you and tell you why I am here, but if I win then you will release both Latios and Latias.'

Ash's eyes widened as did Latios and Latias. They both turned to Ash and eventually Ash nodded, "Okay... fine" he said.

Darkrai nodded, 'Very well... choose your Pokémon.'

Ash turned to Latios and Latios nodded, "You're my strongest Pokémon Latios. I'm counting on you."

Latios nodded, 'I will not let you down Ash.' Latios turned to Darkrai and seemed to glare slightly, 'I will not lose to you Darkrai.'

Latias flew to the side and decided to be referee, 'Latios and Darkrai... this is a one on one battle. Begin!' she said telepathically before backing off.

"Latios use dragon pulse" Ash shouted. Latios opened its mouth and released a massive shock wave towards Darkrai. Darkrai flew out of the way at massive speeds and launched a swirling dark beam at Latios. 'That's a dark pulse attack' Ash thought. "Latios dodge with extreme speed" Ash called. Latios flew to the side and avoided the dark pulse.

Darkrai put its arm together and launched a sphere of darkness at Latios, 'A Shadow ball' Ash thought. "Latios blast through the shadow ball with your dragon rage attack" Ash shouted. Latios formed the dragon rage attack in its mouth and launched it at the shadow ball. Both attacks hit in mid air and there was an explosion.

Silence for a few seconds until Darkrai burst through the smoke and shot a white beam from its hands and it hit Latios making it cry out in pain and fall towards the ground. 'That was ice beam' Ash thought shocked. "Latios are you okay" Ash asked. Latios shook its head to clear the cobwebs and floated back up ready to fight. "Alright Latios use extreme speed" Ash called. Latios took off at fast speeds and began circling Darkrai to confuse it.

It worked as Darkrai stopped and looked around "I'm impressed Latios" Darkrai said in POKESPEECH. "You've gotten much faster since the last time I saw you."

"You'll find out I'm full of surprises" Latios shouted back.

"Latios use steel wing" Ash called. Latios stopped in front of Darkrai surprising it and then hit it hard with its steel wing making Darkrai cry out in pain. "Don't let up use dragon breath" Ash shouted. Latios opened its mouth and launched a green blast of energy and it hit Darkrai hard sending it hard to the ground.

Darkrai shot up from the ground with its fist glowing and then it punched Latios hard in the face, 'A focus punch' Ash thought. "Don't give in Latios hit Darkrai with your ice beam" Latios opened its mouth and launched a massive ice beam at Darkrai. Darkrai dodged the ice beam and then launched another dark pulse at Latios that hit Latios hard knocking him down to the ground.

"No Latios get up" Ash called. "I know that you can do it. You've been through tougher than this. We can do this... you can do it." Latios struggled slightly, but pushed himself back up and hovered in midair ready for battle.

Darkrai stared, 'The human is able to encourage Latios with simple words and Latios' faith in him is unwavering. Maybe... I have misjudged him.' Darkrai then formed a night slash attack in its claws and charged at Latios.

"Latios beat Darkrai back with your dragon claw" Ash shouted. Latios' claws glowed and then they clashed dragon claw vs. night slash. Every time Latios scored a hit on Darkrai then Darkrai would score another hit on Latios. Ash grit his teeth, 'I need to think of something quickly. Latios can't keep this up forever.'

A hard hit from Darkrai knocked Latios back, "Latios hit Darkrai with your Miracle Eye.' Latios' eyes glowed as he stared at Darkrai.

"No" Darkrai growled in POKESPEECH and flew at Latios. Darkrai knew what would happen if Miracle Eye was completed. Darkrai saw he wasn't going to make it in time so Darkrai decided to use other means and charged its hand with dark energy and fired it directly at Latios. Latios' eyes stopped glowing three seconds before the ball connected with Latios and Latios then fell asleep and landed on the ground with a dull thud.

"Latios what happened" Ash called. Latios didn't move, only slept on. 'Darkrai must have used some kind of move to put Latios asleep, which mean that the next attack might be...' Ash's eyes widened, "Latios wake up... hurry you have to wake up." Latios only slept on.

'It's too late' Darkrai said telepathically making sure Ash could hear what he said. Darkrai then launched the dream eater attack to finish Latios off. The attack hit and Latios twitched slightly from the attack and then just lied still. "Latios no" Ash shouted.

In Latios mind he was in a dark place and he just wanted to get out of there "Latios" he heard a voice "Latios wake up" it sounded like Ash. Latios opened his eyes to see nothing, but darkness, but then he saw a small sliver of light, "You gotta wake up Latios. C'mon Latios I know you can do it." The light got bigger and soon Latios opened his eyes for real.

"Latios" Ash called hesitantly. Latios lifted his head and floated up off the ground slightly "Alright Latios you're awake." Darkrai looked surprised that Latios was able to get back up after being hit by dream eater.

Darkrai turned back to Latios "So you are able to still fight" Darkrai said in POKESPEECH. There was a hint of respect in the tone, "But now it's time to end this."

"Yes it is" Latios replied, "But it will end in your defeat."

"Alright Latios use your Luster Purge attack" Ash called.

Latios opened its mouth and charged up its signature attack. Darkrai charged up its dark pulse attack and at the same time they fired their attacks and it was like a repeat with the battle with Harrison as both attacks flew past each other. Latios was nailed with the Dark Pulse as Darkrai was nailed with the Luster Purge. Both Pokémon flew back and hit the ground and both of them struggled to get up and remain conscious.

"Hehe" Darkrai chuckled. "You have gotten stronger Latios." Telepathically he spoke to Ash, 'Good job human maybe I misjudged you.' Then Darkrai fell to the ground unconscious.

'Capture Darkrai, quickly' Latios screamed telepathically. Ash nodded and quickly pulled out an Ultra ball and threw it at Darkrai. The ball hit Darkrai and it enveloped him in light before Darkrai went inside the Pokeball. Silence for a few seconds as everyone held their breaths in anticipation waiting to find out what would happen. Finally the Pokeball stopped twitching and it lied still with the light in the center going out.

Knowing Darkrai was caught Ash quickly ran over to Latios who was collapsing to the ground. Ash ran towards Latios and managed to catch him before he hit the ground. Latias and Pikachu ran, or flew, over as well to see if he was okay.

Ash lowered Latios gently to the ground, "Latios are you okay" Ash asked worried.

'Don't worry about me' Latios said weakly. 'I've been through worse. Right now I just feel really tired' Latios mumbled weakly before closing his eyes.

"Return Latios, good job" Ash called returning Latios to the Pokeball. Ash went over and picked up the ultra ball containing his new Darkrai. "We'll figure this out later. Right now we need to get Latios to Professor Oak's lab. Latias can you fly ahead and tell him that we're coming?"

'I'm on it' Latias said and took off at high speeds towards Pallet town.

"Okay Pikachu" Ash called as Pikachu scampered up to Ash's shoulder. "Hold on tight" Ash warned and then Ash took off sprinting as fast as he could and Pikachu really had to dig its paws into Ash's vest or Pikachu would have went flying from the speed at which Ash was going.

Professor Oak was outside to check up on all of the Pokémon in the back when he heard a loud cry, as did the other Pokémon in the back. "What was that..." Professor Oak asked, but then he cry got louder. He looked up to see something flying in closer.

"What's that" Bulbasaur asked in POKESPEECH.

"I don't know" Kingler responded in POKESPEECH.

Finally the mystery being flew in closer and they could make it out, "Latias" Professor Oak said surprised. Latias stopped when it got close enough to Professor Oak, but when she stopped he picked up a lot of wind causing the Professor to fall on the ground. Latias cooed and pulled the Professor back onto his feet, "Thank you Latias" he thanked. He looked around, "Where's Ash?"

Latias could only coo and cry out in response since she didn't know Professor Oak well enough to communicate telepathically with hum. Professor Oak didn't understand a word she was saying, but the other Pokémon did and they all began speaking at once trying to get Professor Oak to understand.

"Hold on" Professor Oak managed to say over them making them all quiet. He pulled out a Pokedex and set it to translate. "Oaky Latias could you repeat that a little slower?" Latias nodded and began giving off small cries and coos again and the Pokedex began translating.

The Pokedex then read out the translation in its mechanical voice, "Me, Latios and Ash were on our walk home when we were confronted by Darkrai. We don't know why, but Darkrai wanted to battle Ash. Ash had barely managed to win, but Latios was injured. He needs treatment."

Professor Oak was surprised, "Well I've never quite heard of Darkrai, but it sounds like a powerful Pokémon to be able to injure Latios so badly. Don't worry I'll set up the treatment center for Latios when Ash arrives."

Latias cooed her thanks and nuzzled the Professor slightly making him laugh. Professor Oak left the area and went inside to prepare the treatment center for Latios leaving Latias outside to converse with the other Pokémon.

Ash continued to sprint across the roads and was panting harder than ever, but he refused to slow down until he got to Professor Oak's lab. Pikachu was barely holding on, but managed to stay on tight, "Latios... hold on... we're almost there" he managed to gasp out.

"Pika" Pikachu called out.

"Sorry Pikachu" Ash called out still panting and sprinting. "We're almost there." Pikachu gave another 'pika' in response and continued to hold on tightly.

Back at Professor Oak's laboratory the rest of Ash's Pokémon began hounding Latias with questions and Latias could not interpret them all, "Hold on... slow down" Latias managed to say in POKESPEECH making them calm down. "Now please ask one at a time" she said.

"What exactly happened" Bayleef asked "Is Ash okay" she asked worried.

Latias smiled at Bayleef's affection for Ash, "Well I'll start with the simple one. Yes Ash is fine, nothing happened to him." Bayleef and the rest of the Pokémon seemed to sigh heavily in relief. "As for what happened that's complicated. I don't even know what happened, but while we were on our way home we were confronted by Darkrai..."

"By Darkrai, you mean the Legendary Darkrai" Heracross asked.

Latias nodded, "I don't know why he appeared before us, but all Darkrai said was that he wanted to battle Ash. He said that if Ash could defeat him then he would join Ash, but if Ash lost then he would have to release both me and Latios."

"Since you're still here it's obvious that Ash won" Snorlax said too excited to sleep.

Latias nodded, "We'll have to wait and find out the rest from Ash and Darkrai when Ash arrives." Just as Latias finished saying that they heard the sound of panting and heavy footsteps. They hurried over to the fence and looked over and down the path to see Ash sprinting as hard as he could. "Wow, he really is fast" Latias commented.

Ash sprinted up the steps to the lab going three steps at once and in about six steps he got to the top and banged on the door and Professor Oak answered not long afterwards. "My goodness Ash did you sprint all the way here?" Ash was too tired to speak so he just nodded while wheezing harshly. "Well come inside and sit down before you pass out." Ash managed to walk inside with his aching legs and took a seat on a nearby couch to regain his breath. Professor Oak handed Ash a glass of water and Ash gulped it down in five seconds flat.

Ash was finally able to speak properly, "Latios... treatment" he managed to gasp out.

Professor Oak nodded, "Latias told me the story. Hand me Latios and I'll get him fixed up." Ash pulled out Latios' Pokeball and handed it to Professor Oak. Professor Oak turned to go to the treatment center, "Whenever you regain your breath the rest of your Pokémon are in the back." Ash nodded still trying to regain full use of his lungs.

"Pikapi, pipi chu pika" Pikachu asked. (Ash, are you okay?)

Ash nodded and took a deep breath, "Yeah I'm fine now Pikachu. Now that I know that Latios is going to be okay I'm fine. Sorry I sprinted so hard with you hanging off my shoulder like a cape."

Pika chu Pikachu" Pikachu scoffed. (You weren't going that fast.)

Ash laughed, "C'mon let's go see everyone else." Ash got up and winced slightly because the muscles in his legs were aching, but he ignored it. Ash went around to the back and opened the door to see everyone else sitting around talking about something.

"Pikachu" Pikachu shouted getting all of their attention. When they all turned and saw Ash standing there with Pikachu on his shoulder they ran over to greet their trainer and friend. They all seemed to crash into him at once and dog piled a laughing Ash.

"I'm happy to see all of you too" Ash said managing to sit up. "Latias did you tell them about what happened?"

Latias nodded, 'I did' she said telepathically. 'But I didn't know the whole story so I was waiting for you to get here to explain the whole story.'

Ash nodded, "Yeah I'll explain along with Darkrai" Ash said pulling out Darkrai's Pokeball, "but let's wait until Latios is all better before we explain the whole thing." So for a while they just spent s lot of time talking about things, but the main topic was, of course, Ash winning the Johto League. "Yep guys, we finally won" Ash said.

All Pokémon cheered and talked Ash again making him laugh. Ash just realized he still had some Pokémon left in his Pokeballs and pulled them out.

"Oh yeah" Ash said staring at them. He had two of them since Charizard went back to the Charicific valley. "Typhlosion, Croconaw, come on out" Ash said sending out the two Pokémon. "C'mon guys join the party." The Pokémon were having a good time with each other and Latias filled Typhlosion and Croconaw in on the story making them wide eyed.

About twenty minutes had passed before Professor Oak walked outside leaving the door open, "Well it looks like all of you are having a good time" he commented.

"Professor Oak" Ash called getting up and walking up. "How's Latios is he okay?"

"Well why don't you ask him yourself" Professor Oak said stepping to the side and then Latios floated outside through the open door looking as good as new. Latios gave a small coo towards Ash.

"Latios" Ash said happily and hugged the massive dragon Pokémon. "I'm so glad you're okay." Latios gave a small coo in response. Latias quickly flew over as well and Ash departed to let Latias hug her brother tightly. Ash smiled listening to their happy coos.

"Well Ash I know you planned on telling your Pokémon the whole story about how Latios was injured, but I have to admit I'm curious" Professor Oak said. "Do you mind if I listen in?"

"Sure I don't mind" Ash said. Soon they were all outside and Ash was holding Darkrai's Pokeball. "Darkrai come on out" Ash called, Darkrai appeared in a flash and gave most of the Pokémon a chilling feeling and even Professor Oak felt a chilling presence.

Darkrai turned towards Ash and the two Eon Dragons, 'Well since I just came from a Pokeball it's obvious that I was defeated' Darkrai said telepathically so everyone could understand him. 'I don't know why some Pokémon complain about going inside the Pokeball. I found it rather cozy' Darkrai said. Pikachu gave Darkrai a blank look with his eye twitching slightly since Pikachu hated being in Pokeballs.

'Enough joking around Darkrai' Latios nearly growled 'Now tell us why you have come here.'

'Still as temperamental as ever I see eh Latios' Darkrai chuckled making Latios glare at him darkly. 'In all seriousness now the reason I appeared before you is because I could not quite comprehend the story Arceus told us about you two when we all know that you, Latios, don't trust humans except for the few that you lived with.'

'You wanted to know why I decided to come with Ash' Latios said. Darkrai nodded, 'Very well. I went with Ash because he saved my life at the risk of his own life. In his selflessness he risked his own life in order to save mine. He is one of my closest friend and I figured that helping him accomplish his dreams is the least I can do to pay him back for all that he has done for me.'

'I see' Darkrai said. Then Darkrai turned to Ash and peered into Ash's mind and searched for the memory. Darkrai found the memory of when Ash was in Altomare. Darkrai read the entire memory and finished it in an instant. 'Human' Darkrai said getting Ash's attention. 'Latios was right about you. You are indeed a selfless person with a pure soul. I will follow my word as I promised. I am now your Pokémon.'

Ash looked completely shocked. Now he had a total of three Legendary Pokémon. Ash let a smile come to his face and held out his hand, "Welcome to the team Darkrai" Ash said. Darkrai stared at Ash's hand for a second before slowly grasping Ash's hand. Darkrai no longer released a cold presence to those around it.

Professor Oak stood up, "Well that was all informative, but I must be going back to work now. Do you need anything else Ash?"

Ash nodded, "Yeah, I want to register for the Hoenn League."

Professor Oak nodded, "Alright I'll go and update your Pokedex of all the Pokémon in Hoenn."

"Thanks Professor Oak" Ash said. "Alright time to go home. Latios, Latias, Darkrai return." All three legendaries returned to their Pokeballs. "Okay guys I'll see you all later" Ash called walking off with Pikachu on his shoulder. All of his other Pokémon waved as Ash left the lab and want towards his house.

Ash was getting waves everywhere he went as he walked to his house. "Good job Ash" a man called to him.

"Here comes the Champion" another woman called.

"Champion Ash" a group of kids shouted. Ash blushed from all the praises and gave waves back with a bright smile.

'So this is what it likes being a Champion' Ash thought to himself. 'I can only imagine what it's gonna be like being a Pokémon Master.' Ash soon got to his house and opened it, "Mom... mom I'm home" Ash called.

Delia walked out from around the corner, "There's my champion." Ash smiled and blushed slightly, "My son a League Champion. Your father would be so proud of you. It took him four years to win a League Competition."

Ash chuckled slightly, "Well it wasn't just me. All of my Pokémon deserve the reward too." Ash reached into his backpack and pulled out the last drawing Bianca gave to him. Ash looked over to a case where his Trophy and medals were. "I think this deserves to be here as well" Ash said. He grabbed a thumb tack and pinned the drawing above the trophy to show the winning team that helped him win the trophy and become champion.

Delia saw what Ash did and smiled, "Now it looks perfect" Delia said placing her hand on her son's shoulder. Ash smiled brightly and they just stared at the trophy for a bit. "Well it's time to eat. I made everyone of your favorites to celebrate."

"Alright" Ash cheered.

"And Pikachu, I've got a surprise for you too" Delia said. From behind her back she pulled out a fresh bottle of ketchup. Pikachu's eyes sparkled brightly and as soon as Delia handed it to Pikachu, Pikachu jumped off of Ash's shoulder and began to lick up little squirts from the bottle. While Pikachu was having fun with the bottle Ash was eating his mothers fantastic cooking and before Ash knew it he was sleepy and it was close to 10:00 at night. "It's getting late honey, time for my little champion to get to bed" Delia said.

Ash yawned, "Yeah sure. C'mon Pikachu" Pikachu gave a high pitched 'cha' yawn and followed Ash up stairs. Ash entered his old room to see the massive bunk bed he's had since he was a toddler along with various other posters and a T.V. on top of a dresser.

Pikachu hopped over to a spot on the bed, "Cha" he said sleepily and curled up on the bed.

Ash chuckled slightly and he went over to his window and opened it letting the cool night air wash over him. Ash pulled out his last three Pokeballs and opened them releasing Latios, Latias and Darkrai. "Hey guys" Ash said.

They all greeted Ash back, 'Do you need something of us' Darkrai asked telepathically.

Ash shook his head, 'No I just figured that maybe the three of you would like to wander around the area and explore and feel the fresh air after being trapped up in Pokeballs for so long."

Latias quickly cooed her thanks and began to fly off exploring the area making Ash and Latios chuckle, 'It looks like she wants to explore' Latios said telepathically. 'I think I'll join her for a bit before I go to sleep. See you tomorrow morning Ash.' Latios then took off in flight as well leaving Ash and Darkrai alone.

"Well Darkrai, what do you want to do" Ash asked.

Darkrai looked confused, 'You are asking me what I want to do? I always thought that the trainers decided what the Pokémon did.'

"Well there are some trainers like that" Ash admitted somewhat regretfully. "But, in my opinion, Pokémon aren't merely things to be used for battle. Pokemon are like important friends. We help them and they help us. Every Pokémon I have ever captured I have treated like a friend and I will continue to do so for every Pokémon I ever catch. You're my friend Darkrai... from the moment I caught you, you were my friend. I'll do anything to make you feel comfortable around here and the others."

Darkrai was touched by Ash's gentle soul. He really was the chosen one, 'Ash...' Darkrai said using Ash's first name, 'I thank you. ... You really are a good person... and a great friend.'

Ash smiled, "Thanks Darkrai" Ash then yawned, "Well I need to get some sleep so I'll see you tomorrow." Darkrai nodded as Ash left the windowsill and turned the off the light before crawling into his own bed. Darkrai stared at Ash as he slowly fell asleep before Darkrai took to the skies.

The next day came quickly and the sun was shining brightly and the Pidgey were chirping. Everything was alright in the small town of Pallet. "Scizor use metal claw" a voice shouted.

"Dodge it Darkrai" another voice shouted. Then there was a small explosion creating shockwaves through the ground. So much for peace and quiet in Pallet Town. Ash and Gary were in the back field around Professor Oak's laboratory and were having a mock battle one on one. Ash wanted to test out Darkrai's abilities for himself and Gary was happy to volunteer.

Darkrai dodged Scizor's metal claw, "Scizor use X-Scissor" Gary called. Scizor's claws and arms glowed and Scizor let loose an X blast from its arms and this time they struck Darkrai. Darkrai grunted from the pain of the blast.

"Hang in there Darkrai" Ash called "Go and use Dark void." Darkrai held its hand out and gathered a ball of dark energy and then fired it at Scizor who was too slow to dodge and the attack hit dead on. Scizor then fell asleep from the attacks power.

"Scizor" Gary called.

"Good job Darkrai now use Dream eater," Ash said. Darkrai gathered up more dark energy and launched a spectral image of itself at the sleeping Scizor and it washed through Scizor making it twitch slightly and then Scizor had swirls for eyes.

'Scizor is unable to battle' Latios called telepathically 'Darkrai is the winner.'

"Good job Scizor return" Gary called returning his Pokémon. Gary walked up to Ash, "That was a good battle Ash. You have defiantly earned the title of Champion."

"Thanks Gary, coming from you that means a lot" Ash said as they shook hands. "So what are you gonna be doing now?"

Gary was silent for a few seconds, "Actually I've decided to become a Pokémon researcher like my grandpa." Ash looked at Gary surprised, "That defeat back at the Silver Conference made me realize that I still have a lot to learn about Pokémon. Battling's fun and all, but I know that becoming a researcher will allow me to learn so much more about Pokémon then I never would have even dreamed of coming up with while battling."

"If that's what you wanna do then I wish you good luck Gary" Ash said.

"Thanks Ash" Gary said. "So gramps told me that you're heading for the Hoenn Region?"

Ash nodded, "That's right. I'm gonna be competing in the Hoenn League and I'm gonna win it."

Gary chuckled slightly, "Well I'm glad to see you still have your confidence. I wish you luck in the Hoenn Region Ash. Good luck."

"Thanks Gary" Ash said. "Good luck with becoming a researcher." Ash then reached into his pocket and pulled out the top half of the rusty Pokeball, "Here Gary you take it."

Gary looked surprised, "You mean it?"

Ash nodded, "We both tied for it so it's only fair that both of us keep one half of it. Think of it as a good luck charm when in a challenging situation. It could also be like each of us are thinking about each other when we have it."

"Thanks Ash" Gary said taking the top half.

"Ash" Professor Oak called, "Your mom called. She wants you to head home now."

"Alright" Ash called back, "I got to go now. Good luck on your journey Gary."

"Thanks, you too Ash" Gary said. The two friends shook hands one more time before Ash departed. He returned Darkrai to his Pokeball while Latios floated alongside Ash and Pikachu hopped back on Ash's shoulder. Latias decided to stay back home at Ash's home with Delia and Mr. Mime.

'Looks like you've become friends with Gary again' Latios commented.

Ash nodded, "Yeah it's nice too. I remember when we were friends before starting our journey, but once Gary started learning about Pokémon he became arrogant and mean. That was when we were both six and we hadn't spoken to each other in years. But now that it's all behind us it's nice to have him as a friend again."

They neared Ash's house and Ash walked inside while Latios flew around to the back. "Mom, I'm home" Ash called. There was no answer. Ash walked around to the back to see his mom doing garden work and seemed to be demonstrating it to a very curious and interested Latias. Ash could see Latios try not to laugh and Ash was struggling to hold back some laughs as well.

Ash opened the door and stepped back outside, "Hey mom" Ash said.

Delia turned towards Ash, "Honey your home already?"

"Well yeah" Ash said. "Professor Oak told me you called and asked for me to come home."

"Oh yeah" Delia said grinning sheepishly making Ash and Pikachu sweat drop slightly. Delia got up and took her gardening stuff off, "I'll show you the rest in a moment Latias." Latias gave off a small coo in response. "Come inside Ash I've got a surprise for you" Delia said opening the door and going inside. Ash liked surprises so he wasted no time and went inside as well. Once inside Ash found his mother picking up some things from the couch.

"Well, what is it mom" Ash said excitedly.

"Well I knew that you would be going for Hoenn soon so I took the liberty of buying you some new clothes and a new backpack" Delia said presenting him with the clothes and backpack and she even had a new hat on top of his clothes. "I know that you love your old hat, but I thought that you'd like this hat too."

"I love it mom" Ash said "Thank you." Ash took the new clothes, backpack and hat. It was a new pair of shoes that were black and red, darker blue jeans and a dark blue hoddie similar to his vest. The hat was red like his first one only it was black in the front and had, what looked like, a green Pokeball in the center. His backpack was the same except it was a forest green color and had a red Pokeball in the center of a black section.

Morning had come really quickly for Ash and his mom. Delia, Tracey and Professor Oak had shown up to Ash's house to see him off, "Now are you sure you looked at the map well enough to know where you're going" Delia fussed.

"Yes I did" Ash said.

"Remember Ash once you get to Littleroot Town you must see Professor Burch to register for the Hoenn League" Professor Oak said.

Ash nodded, "I know. Harrison told me where I could find Professor Burch once I reach Littleroot Town."

"Ash, you can count on me to take care of your Pokémon while you're gone" Tracey assured.

"Thanks Tracey" Ash said gratefully. He pulled out a Pokeball, "Alright Latios come on out." Latios appeared in a small cry. "Latios we're about to start our trip to the Hoenn Region. Do you mind giving me a ride?"

'Not at all' Latios said telepathically as he lowered himself.

"Thanks Latios" Ash said climbing on top and he made sure Pikachu was on safely as well. "Bye everyone I'll see you later" Ash called waving as Latios took to the air and began flying out of sight. Everyone kept waving at until Ash was and Latios were out of sight.

Now begins Ash's adventure in the Hoenn Region.