Do check the new chapter 1 I've updated! A lot of things have been changed and grammar has been fixed too.

Here it comes, the chapter you've all been awaiting! Lavender Tower. Will Ash succeed or will he be captured just like Leaf? Not all endings will be rainbows and sunshine…

Warning, this might get a bit intense in some places. It won't turn into Latias's Journey or Sun Soul but a warning is nice.

(The proofread chapter will be uploaded by tomorrow. Brief grammatical mistakes may exist.)

Disclaimer: I don't own Pokémon.

Xxx

Lavender Tower

"L-Leaf?" Ash gasped. There was a haunting laughter which chilled him to his bone and Ash nearly wet his pants. Mystic yipped, hitting his face lightly with her tail, and Ash snapped out of it. "R-right."

Ash cleared his throat and walked forwards, trying to ignore the probably fake body of his childhood friend. Ash stopped besides it, turning his neck slightly to examine it.

The body began to laugh making Ash jump. Mystic growled as the dead body moved, its rotting neck twisting. "Oh Ashy, so happy to see you here." She raised a hand, extending it towards Ash slowly. Mystic formed a Shadow Ball and struck her shoulder, blasting the entire arm off.

"Stay down!" Ash raised his feet and, apologizing in his mind, slammed it into her decayed neck. Leaf's head was snapped off her body, which did nothing to stop her evil cackling. "Shut up!" Ash snarled, kicking the head off to the side hard.

There was an ominous dong above them and Ash closed his eyes, clenching fists and breathing deeply. Mystic licked his cheek and Ash smiled. "I'm fine. Let's go."

Ash stared at the large doors in front of him, created that size so bodies of large Pokémon could enter inside to be buried. Rumor had it Ghost Pokémon were the souls of these dead Pokémon. Ash never found it in him to properly think about it for obvious reasons.

The door opened suddenly, making Ash's breathe hitch as he glanced inside. "Let's-" Ash's words died in his throat. Unknown horrors, incomprehensible creatures, terrifying moans and cries of suffering were not even a quarter of the things Ash was witnessing.

Mystic let out a distressed cry, feeling fear crawl into her heart. "Calm down Mystic. Nothing-" Ash froze as he looked at the side. Mystic was impaled to the door with a spear, her shocked eyes staring at Ash as red blood dripped down from her form.

"Ow!" Ash yelped, pulling his hand from the Eevee's mouth. "Damn." Ash cursed, realizing it was another one of the Ghost Type's stupid trick. Mystic nuzzled him comfortingly. "I'm fine." Ash prepared himself and nodded. "Let's do this."

Mystic nodded. "For Leaf and for Lavender Town." Ash tried to move but found himself unable to. Looking down, Ash's throat hitched when he saw two scary hands around his ankles.

"Going where Ashy?" Ash gritted his teeth as the fake Leaf's words rang in his ear. "Inside?" Ash felt two hands wrap around his chest and Leaf's body pressing from behind. "Go ahead if you can." She laughed hauntingly.

Ash gritted his teeth, trying to pull forward. Try as he might though, his feet refused to budge. Ash felt vomit lurch to his throat at the foul smell of Leaf's rotting body.

"I miss you." Leaf mumbled. "Let's stay together, forever." Ash felt her nails dig inside him and closed his eyes. "What do you say?"

'This is not real! This is not real! This is not real! This is not real! This is not real! This is not real!' Ash chanted inside his mind. Feeling a sense of reality returning, Ash opened his eyes and found all the resistance vanish.

"You'll give in sooner or later Ash. Remember that…" Leaf's voice trailed off. Ash blinked and found himself staring inside the tower, frozen to his place. Shaking his head to remove any lingering fear, Ash nodded and stepped inside.

The door closed behind him, shutting tight. Ash, kind of used to jump scares by now, didn't react much. "I cannot see a thing." Ash complained. Ash felt his shoulders suddenly feel weightless and reached for his starter.

"Mystic?" Ash called out when he found the position unoccupied. "Mystic!" Ash hollered.

"You're protected from the necklace, but she isn't." Ash clenched his teeth as the fake Leaf appeared again. "She'll suffer because of you now. Sucks to be her."

"Mystic!" Ash called out instead, trying unsuccessfully to find anyone. "Where are you?!" Leaf chuckled.

"You'll save me? Nice joke." Ash reached for his flashlight and switched it on, flaring it around. His breath slowed a bit when he saw red blood on the wall. "Wonder whether that belongs to your beloved Mystic or not…"

"Mystic!" Ash called out loudly. Leaf giggled irritatingly.

"She's dead too. Get-" Leaf jumped out of the way when Ash blindly swiped for her.

"Shut. Up." Ash warned her coldly. Leaf smirked slyly at him.

"Or what?" She provoked. "You'll hit me? That's what you are? You'll hit your childhood friend?" Ash bit his lower lip angrily. "Stop trying to act tough Ashy. You cannot do a single fucking thing to me." She hissed.

"That's definitely not my Leaf." Ash replied. "She never curses." Leaf processed it within moments and her laugh was audible even to the people in Lavender Town.

"Maybe." Leaf shrugged. "Oh, look. You're Eevee." Ash flashed the light there and saw a black figure darting just before he could identify it. There was red blood left behind, though.

There was a pained yip behind him, and Ash spun around hastily. There was a smear of blood down there but no one was in sight. "Mystic!" Ash called out.

"Look there." Ash turned around and saw Mystic in the air, surrounded by purple mist. By her expression, she seemed in intense pain. "Oh my." Leaf mocked. "Seems like the ghosts are having real fun with her."

Mystic opened her bloodshot eyes and let out a pained cry, one unmatched in the amount of pain and agony it expressed. "Mystic!" Ash roared. Mystic fell from the air down, the mist dispersing.

Ash ran forwards, trying to catch her. From the height she was falling, it was evident she won't survive. Ash increased his speed, realizing he'll make it.

However, he forgot to take the terrain into plan and tripped. "Oops!" Leaf giggled as Ash fell hard. Ash looked up, just in time to see Mystic hitting the ground hard. There was a sick splat, followed by cracking bones.

"M-my-mystic?" Ash gasped, crawling near the Evolution Pokémon. Ash felt someone bite his neck and gasped. His very vision morphed, and Ash stumbled.

"This is just the beginning…" Ash looked around, finding himself at the entrance of Lavender Town, Mystic on his shoulder. The Eevee was yipping, trying to gain his attention.

"It was another one of their games." Ash felt his knees weaken at the image of the dead Mystic in front of him and fell down.

"Fallen already?" The fake Leaf asked, standing near him. Her hand rubbed his sweat laden hair comfortingly. "You still have time Ash. Go away." She suggested softly. "Never return." Ash looked up and paused.

"That's all I can do for you." Leaf, the real one probably, was standing there, unhurt and alive. Tears shone in her eyes, lower lip quivering. "Please Ash, I beg you." She broke down.

"Leaf?" Ash blinked, getting up. One glance at Mystic on his shoulder showed that this was another vision. The brunette nodded, coming forward for a hug. Ash leaned in before backing off. "No! This is another fabricated reality!"

Leaf simply turned, pulling her brown hair aside. Ash saw Leaf's birthmark on the back of her neck and his eyes widened. Rushing forwards, he hugged her tightly.

"H-how?" Ash asked. Leaf didn't reply, shivering in his grip.

"Ash, get away." She warned. "I don't have any time left. Get out of here before she-" Leaf let out a cry of pain, body freezing up. She managed to push Ash away before it happened.

"L-Leaf?" Ash called out. Leaf stiffened and gasped as something erupted from her stomach. "Leaf!"

"You bitch." Ash saw the rotting, dead form of Leaf stand behind her, hand buried in Leaf's back. "Rot in pieces. You won't be missed." She pulled out her hand, spitting as Leaf fell down lifelessly. "I'll see you inside Leaf." She looked at Ash. "I'll be sure to torture and torment her thoroughly. Feel free to be in line."

"Don't you dare-" Ash's vision morphed again and he found himself on his knees, staring into thin air. Mystic was at his feet, yipping worriedly and trying to gain a response.

"I'm- I'm fine." Ash responded. Ash looked up, staring at the tower. "You're fine, right?" Mystic gave him a confused yip, wondering why Ash was asking her when he was the one hurt.

Ash breathed deeply, remembering what Leaf had told her. "You still have time Ash. You can leave. Never return." Ash gripped his cap and fixed it on his head, getting up.

"I saw another fake vision." Ash explained. Quickly explaining her everything, Ash clutched the necklace around his neck. "I don't know how Leaf managed to get here or whether it was another of the ghosts play but I cannot leave. Not when we still have a chance to save her."

Ash reached into his bag and pulled out a gift Leaf had given him on his tenth birthday.

Flashback…

"Happy Birthday Ash!" Leaf exclaimed, running forward and hugging the birthday boy tightly. Ash hugged her back excitedly.

"Why so late?" Ash asked crossly. Leaf gave him an apologetic look.

"Was busy buying your gift." She replied. "Here!" She pulled out a small box, wrapped elegantly. Ash took it delicately, wondering what was inside.

"What's inside it?" Ash asked curiously.

"Open it and find out." Leaf replied cheekily. Ash did as she said, opening it. Ash finished unwrapping and his face lit up. "Like it?" She asked.

It was a silver colored bracelet, designed beautifully. Though not one for jewelry, Ash loved it. "I love it!" Ash exclaimed, inspecting it. He noted that it had some words carved inside it as well.

"No matter how far you are from me, you'll always have me near you." Leaf read for him, probably having memorized it. "We're all going to start our journey soon so I thought you'll like this."

"You're the best when it comes to giving gifts Leaf." Ash praised. "Here, put it on my wrist." Ash handed her the bracelet and extended his right hand.

Leaf did as he said, putting it on. "Suits you."

Mystic yipped and jumped on his shoulder, eyes shining with determination. Ash nodded and, checked for the flashlight, finding it there. "Let's go get her Mystic." The duo walked inside the open gates of the tower, stepping into the darkness.

The door closed behind them, ensuring that they were inside. 'No turning back now I guess.' Ash thought. 'Wasn't planning on it anyway.' Leaf was in the upper levels that much he knew. To reach there, Ash would have to find the stairs.

He glanced at the Evolution Pokémon on his shoulder. She was a Normal Type which meant that Ghost Type attacks won't hurt her. If they had to fight, Mystic would have a big advantage over them due to Shadow Ball.

"Where do you think the stairs are?" Ash asked his Eevee. She yipped a bit warily, not quite enjoying the scenery.

Lavender Tower was just as scary as Ash had seen in his hallucinations. The Ghost Types were trying their best to scare them off and indulge them into another series of nightmares. This time though, Ash was prepared.

The bracelet Leaf had gifted him stuck to his wrist, keeping him grounded due to its steely touch. Ash had to account for the ground as well, not wanting to trip over any grave.

"They're trying so hard to scare us." Ash commented as he found himself looking at a human face speared to the wall. "But you and I both know it's fake so why try?" The face disappeared. Ash spotted the stairs and grinned. "Let's go!"

Mystic yipped suddenly, jumping off Ash's shoulder. Ash quickly ducked behind a tombstone, dodging a Power Gem. "Shadow Ball!" Mystic formed the ball and took aim. "Where did he go?" Mystic yipped in pain as another Power Gem slammed into her side.

She endured it and fired off the Shadow Ball. Ash reached for his other pokéballs and grabbed one, throwing it. The bright light emanating from the pokéball lit up the surroundings, letting Ash have a quick read.

Lairon came out, looking around. "Metal Sound! Mystic, cover!" Mystic shut her ears with her paws as Lairon let out the screeching metallic sound.

Ash felt fear crawl inside him as dozens of Ghost Types were affected. They all screeched in discomfort, floating around. Ash spotted the Ghost Type who had attacked them, a Sableye, and called out to Mystic.

The Evolution Pokémon formed her Shadow Ball and fired it, having gained a bit of resistance against Metal Sound. The ball hit the Sableye hard, making him stumble and float back.

Wounded, Sableye retreated in the shadows. Ash called Lairon back, picking Mystic and making a mad dash towards the stairs. He reached them and ran above, grinning as a few ghosts tried to stop them.

Try as they might though, Ash's necklace and Mystic's typing hindered them. The stairs were old, not having been tended to in quite a bit, and Ash had to watch his step. He managed, however, and reached the second floor.

Ash panted a little, settling Mystic down. "You okay?" Mystic nodded. "How many floors are there exactly?" Ash remembered reading about Lavender Tower when he was little. Ash tried to remember.

Mystic shrugged and tapped him with her paw, signaling him to keep moving. Ash nodded and continued, keeping an eye around. "So, you made it this far?"

"Hey. Was missing you." Ash commented to the fake Leaf. "How's Leaf? Killed her?" The fake Leaf looked at him adoringly.

"Aw. Someone's tempted to kill their friend." Ash didn't reply, looking around for the stairs. "Hey Ashy," She called out. "Don't you care about what Leaf told you? To stay out of trouble?"

"I don't care really." Ash replied. "Nice talking to you." Ash touched the bracelet, closing his eyes and sighing.

"You. Won't. Succeed." Leaf grunted and disappeared. Ash opened his eyes and looked around.

"Hey Mystic, where are the stairs?" Ash questioned his starter. Ash felt someone run behind him and turned. "Mystic," Ash called out warningly. The Evolution Pokémon formed a Shadow Ball. Ash raised his flashlight, trying to spot anyone to no avail.

There was a mad cackle, and Ash turned to the source. He saw a pulsating yellow light, pulling his attention. Feeling a dull sense of déjà vu, Ash felt his vision blur. "Mystic!" He yelled, realizing what the light was. "Don't look! It's Confuse…" Ash's voice faded as he lost all sense of reality.

Falling forward, Ash collapsed face first. Mystic beside him tried her best to fight the effect off. "Goodnight Ashy." The fake Leaf grinned, crouching next to him and pulling the bracelet from his wrist. "Enjoy a long, nightmarish, slumber. Never wake again." She whispered in his ear.

Mystic growled warningly at her, struggling to even stand. Leaf laughed at her rather pitiful efforts. "Don't worry girl." She mocked. "You'll find company with the other buried Pokémon here. I'll make sure to bury you beside your trainer once we finish feasting on you."

Mystic fell, eyes closing. Leaf cackled evilly, her voice ringing all across the town. Within the town, the Elder looked at the tower worriedly. "Another trainer falls." He closed his eyes sorrowfully and shook his head. "Your efforts will be remembered, Ash."

Xxx

"Wonder why Ash isn't replying my texts." Cynthia muttered after having checked her pokégear. "He never takes this long." Riolu looked at her.

'Don't worry. He'll reply soon.' Riolu assured, feeling his Ma feel worried.

"I hope nothing has happened to him." She mumbled. "Ash has a tendency to fall in trouble. He almost died in Rock Tunnel." Riolu processed that.

'Sounds a lot like you.' Cynthia blinked. Where did that come from?

"What'cha mean?" The blonde asked.

'I mean, you also get into trouble.' He explained. 'Remember that poor Gible?' Cynthia clenched her fists at the memory. She didn't have words to express how angry she was feeling at the poor treatment he got.

"I hope he's fine." Cynthia mumbled. She shook her head, hating to accept the fact that she probably won't be able to do anything for Gible but knowing that it was the bitter truth.

Cynthia pulled out her pokégear, checking the map. "Good news Riolu." Her smile seemed to return. "There's a Pokémon Center near us. We'll be able to reach there before night. Let's get a move on."

The duo continued on, battling a few trainers and taking small rests. It was about midnight when they finally managed to reach the center. "Finally." Cynthia smiled. "Nothing beats a nice warm shower."

Cynthia entered the gym, tired and exhausted. She walked straight to Nurse Joy, handing over her Pokémon. "I also need room." The blonde told the pinkette, handing over her pokedex.

In order to reduce casualties and make journeys easier, the League opened up Pokémon Centers outside the cities. For example, this very Pokémon Center and those at both ends of Rock Tunnel were made for this very purpose.

"Here you go." Nurse Joy replied, handing over her pokedex and room key. Cynthia took it, thanking her. Cynthia was about to leave when a voice made her freeze.

"Nurse, how's Gible?" She turned around; spotting someone she really didn't want to. "Oh hey." He smirked cockily. Cynthia didn't reply, simply wanting to learn about the poor dragon and leave.

"He's still healing. The damage he took is pretty severe." Cynthia's eyes widened. "I can't believe you didn't call off the battle!"

"I wanted to, but he's real stubborn." Damien answered. "I hope he gets well soon." He looked sad but Cynthia saw straight through his façade.

Cynthia turned on her heel, deciding to leave. "Hey! Want to have an early dinner?" Cynthia turned her neck around, a furious look on her face.

"No." With that curt reply, Cynthia left for her room.

"Wonder what her problem is. She's acting like that ever since we met." She overheard Damien. Grabbing her key, she jammed it and opened the door angrily.

Cynthia exhaled, wanting nothing more than to just punch that cocky good for nothing trainer in the face. Knowing that it would only make matters worse, she decided to simply take a shower and rest.

'Ash still hasn't replied.' Cynthia thought as she entered the shower. 'It's been a complete day. Hope he's fine.' The blonde already had tons of pessimistic thoughts plaguing her head.

Little did she know, those thoughts were true.

Xxx

"Stay still!" Ash yelled, trying to punch a strange mixture of his entire team. Ash stumbled, falling down, and felt dizziness overcome him. Besides him, Mystic fired off random Shadow Balls, causing a lot of collateral damage.

The fake Leaf watched from above, laughing at Ash's pitiful attempts to get out of the Confuse Ray. Ash, someone who had entered Lavender Town a few hours ago bravely to save his friend, was now suffering the same fate.

You may be confused about the effects of Confuse Ray. Let me explain while I have the chance. Confuse Ray, as its name suggested, confused the foe and made it see things that did not exist.

It had two effects, both of them including the above mentioned hallucinations. One of them induced the foe into deep sleep, making them see nightmares that drained them of all their energy and left them tired and vulnerable.

The other occurred when the foe struggled against it, resulting in them seeing hallucinations when they were semi-conscious. This resulted in them firing off random attacks. This effect was more common because the opponents usually struggled against the effect. If they were caught off guard or were unprepared, the former scenario occurred.

Unknown to her, Ash had someone ready to save him. "Where did he come from?" She hissed, seeing the Elder's son Anpu come in to save Ash.

Leaf jumped from her position, landing behind Anpu silently, and attacked the Lavender Town resident. Or at least, she tried to. "Ah!" Leaf growled, jumping back. Anpu turned around, glaring at the fabrication.

"Get away you vile Misdreavus!" He growled. Leaf blinked in surprise. How did he manage to see her real form!? She felt two spectral claws press in from behind and gasped. "Shadow Claw Gengar!"

Her human form flickered and she turned into her normal form. Anpu grinned as his Gengar overpowered the Ghost Type easily. "Hey Ash!" Anpu said, reaching the trainer and holding him by the arms. "Wake up dude!" Ash didn't reply, struggling against Anpu.

Anpu looked at his Gengar who had just delivered a strong Night Shade to the Screech Pokémon and injured her badly. The Misdreavus screeched, making Gengar flinch, and disappeared into the shadows.

"Hey Gengar! Over here!" Anpu called out. Gengar floated over, looking at the struggling Ash. "Can you snap him out?" Gengar nodded and touched Ash's forehead.

Ash's struggles slowed as the Confuse Ray was removed from his mind. Ash collapsed in Anpu's grip, and he settled him down slowly. Gengar floated over to Mystic, easing her down and helping her as well.

"Good thing I'm here eh." Anpu commented as Ash stirred. "Hey, get up." Ash opened his eyes, feeling his entire body ache.

"Huh?" Ash spoke up with a raspy tone. "Anpu? What are you doing here?"

"My fault your friend got into such a blunder and I'll fix it." Anpu replied. Ash reached for his bracelet, eyes widening when he found it nowhere.

"Where's my bracelet?" Ash asked, looking around. His starter climbed into his lap tiredly, falling down. "Hey Mystic, you fine?" Ash questioned. The Eevee yipped in reply.

"This isn't another play by the ghosts." Anpu assured him.

"And why do I believe you?" Ash questioned skeptically.

"Check for yourself." He replied. Mystic licked his cheek and Ash closed his eyes, focusing. He knew Ghost Types wouldn't be able to hurt him due to the necklace around his neck.

"You're right." Ash opened his eyes and got up. "How long was I out?" Ash asked Anpu.

"One hour maybe." Ash felt his legs ache and protest against his movement. "Here." Anpu offered some Oran Berries. Ash took them, offering them to Mystic.

Mystic yipped, taking one in her mouth and anther in her paw. Ash smiled and put the others in his mouth, chewing on them. The berry's energy restoring factor kicked in.

"Thanks." Ash smiled. "Where's my flashlight?" Ash looked around in the darkness.

"That should be the least of your worries." Anpu suggested, pulling out a flashlight of his own and flicking it open. "Gengar, you know the way to the top?" Gengar nodded. "Let's go Ash. The sooner we get this over with, the better."

Xxx

"You sure know your way here pretty well." Ash commented as they searched for the stairs. Frustration was evident on Anpu's face.

"Off course they'll do that!" He shouted. Mystic looked at him curiously.

"Do what?" Ash asked.

"The Spiritomb at the top," Ash blinked at the name. "Has created an altered reality around Lavender Tower. This gives him the power to alter the tower."

"It can do that?" Ash asked in surprise. "What is a Spiritomb?"

"You'll see at the top." Anpu answered. "And it can do a lot more than just alter reality. We're at Floor 2 currently. The higher we reach, the more deadly it becomes."

"We can't just leave." Ash protested.

"I'm not saying that." Anpu growled. "The Spiritomb hasn't considered us that much of a threat currently. When it does, it'll do everything in his power to finish us off like that League trainer."

"You sure the League trainer's dead?" Anpu shrugged.

"We can barely survive one day in here. You think she'll survive a week inside?" As much as Ash loathed acknowledging it, Anpu was right. She was dead.

"I hope you don't plan on being the same as her." Anpu commented. "We need to find out way above."

"Where did that fake Leaf go?" Ash wondered. "She sort of just disappeared."

"That fake Leaf, for your information, was a Misdreavus." Anpu responded. "Gengar has hurt her nicely. She won't be returning for quite a while now."

"Good for me." Ash muttered. "Can't your Gengar find the way around? He's a Ghost Type, right?"

"Can you stop asking questions!?" Anpu exclaimed. "Stop being so talkative!" Ash shut up at that. "Gengar, found a way?" His Gengar shook his head sadly.

Ash pulled out his pokedex, searching for Spiritomb. "Spiritomb the Forbidden Pokémon. A Pokémon that was formed by 108 spirits. It is bound to a fissure in an Odd Keystone." It had the same appearance as what Ash had seen in his dreams.

"Hey Ash," Anpu called out. "Gengar might've found a way. Come on." Ash nodded and, pocketing his ID, followed him. The Shadow Pokémon led them to the stairs leading to the 1F. "You can't be serious."

"Look, I can't stop questioning you if you leave things untold." Ash told him. "What is it?" The Gengar gestured to the bottom.

"Gengar just talked to the Misdreavus, the Fake Leaf," He elaborated. "She's telling us to retreat. We don't have a way above." Ash's face turned into a scowl.

"I'm not leaving without Leaf." Ash replied. "You can go if you want to, but I'm not." Gengar shook his head, telling something. Mystic's ears perked up, and she jumped from Ash's shoulder.

Ash turned around and saw the fake Leaf approaching them. She was clutching her arm as if in pain. "Get out of my home." She hissed. Mystic and Gengar took positions in front of Ash and Anpu protectively.

"And what if we don't?" Ash challenged.

"Then you'll die here." She responded. Ash smirked at that.

"If you wanted to kill us, you would've long ago." Ash retorted. "Just admit it, you cannot touch us. You can't do a single thing to us." The Fake Leaf cocked her head.

"I was going easy on you these past hours simply because your friend requested." Ash blinked. "But guess what? You've overextended your visit." Her form flicked and in her position floated a Misdreavus. A pulsating, hypnotic light emanated from her.

"Confuse Ray!" Anpu warned. The four covered their eyes, blocking the light. Gengar dove into the shadows and dove at Misdreavus from within.

Misdreavus let out a shriek, pushing Gengar away and used Night Shade. Gengar quickly retaliated with Shadow Ball. Mystic yipped and dashed forwards, running through the two attacks and spinning for an Iron Tail.

She scored a clean hit, knocking Misdreavus back, and Gengar used another Shadow Ball. It scored another clean hit and Misdreavus disappeared inside the shadows. Gengar dove behind her, engaging her from within.

"That was daring of your Eevee." Anpu commented. "Running in the crossfire of Night Shade and Shadow Ball."

"She knew they won't hurt her." Ash replied. "She's strong and clever. Easily one of my strongest battlers." Ash saw a few shadows swirl around each other and Misdreavus was pushed out.

Mystic, who had readied a Shadow Ball, let it rip. The ball hit Misdreavus and blasted her hard, making her drop to the ground. Gengar grinned, forming behind her. Mystic ran over to Misdreavus, opening her mouth and biting into her.

Misdreavus screamed in pain and tried to use shriek only for Gengar to freeze her in place. The Disable worked its magic, and Misdreavus was unable to move.

"Let's have a chat Misdreavus." Anpu uttered coldly, crouching besides her. Misdreavus was trying her best to break free, evident from her look. "Where is Leaf?" Misdreavus grinned.

"Why should I answer you?" She spat. Mystic growled and eased her Bite before snapping back down brutally. Misdreavus let out a cry of pain at that. Mystic growled a threat at her.

"Got your answer?" Anpu asked. "Will you answer now?" Misdreavus grinned despite the pain. "Gengar." Gengar's eyes glowed pink, swirling alluringly.

"No," Misdreavus whimpered, recognizing the Hypnosis. "Get away! Get…" Her eyes closed making Anpu grin.

"She down?" Gengar nodded. "Ask her about the position of Leaf and the League Official, if she's alive." Gengar nodded and released the hypnotized Misdreavus.

The two began to converse, Gengar asking questions and Misdreavus quietly responding. Ash was impressed. Gengar was quite skilled and strong. "Atta girl." Ash praised his starter. "He's your starter?"

Anpu nodded. "Gifted to me by Agatha." Ash's eyes widened. "She saw potential in me and gifted me a Ghastly. Raised him into Gengar. Her origin is of Lavender Town. Off course she'll help us." Anpu continued seeing his unbelieving look.

"Nice." Ash muttered. Gengar turned to the duo, telling them something. Anpu nodded.

"Misdreavus is going to show us the way to F3. Let's get a move on." Ash, Mystic in his arms, followed him.

"Good thing you came to save me." Ash commented gratefully. "Or I would've died a long time ago."

"Don't mention it." Anpu said. The two reached a corner and saw the flight of steps leading above. Ash could've sworn they had checked over there. "Leaf is on F4. The League Trainer is on F5."

"She's alive?" Ash questioned happily.

"Don't expect her to be in great shape though." Anpu replied. "I won't be surprised if…" He shook his head to clear the thoughts. "Good thing you haven't seen the bodies of the scientists."

"I might have a vague idea." Ash replied, remembering some of the horrors he had seen during Confuse Ray. The four began climbing the steps and reached above easily.

Gengar grunted in pain when a Power Gem hit him, knocking the Misdreavus in his arms out. Mystic growled and fired off a Shadow Ball at the Sableye who dodged easily.

Gengar threw the Misdreavus to the side, dashing towards Sableye. Unknown to him, a shadow hit him hard and sent him to the side. Mystic quickly leapt in front of Anpu, batting the Shadow Ball away with Iron Tail.

Ash grabbed two pokéballs and threw them, revealing Viper and Bulbasaur. More Ghosts emerged from the shadows, joining the battle against them.

"Froslass! Frillish!" Anpu called. From within his pokéballs, the two semi-Ghost Types appeared and began the fight. "Froslass! Take the Banette! Frillish use Mist! Gengar, stay close to us!"

"Mystic and Viper, engage the Sableye! Bulbasaur, help Froslass!" Ash ordered. The six Pokémon worked in tandem against the Ghosts. Mystic yipped and dashed forward, trying to get a Quick Tail in. A Haunter tried to block her only for Viper to engage him instead.

Mystic reached Sableye, spinning and trying to deliver the Iron Tail. Sableye dodged, and blasted her back with Dark Pulse. Mystic quickly recovered, growling and firing off quick Shadow Balls.

Sableye retaliated with Night Shade, using it to destroy the Shadow Balls, and followed up with Power Gem. Mystic yipped, dodging it, but was unable to dodge the Sucker Punch by another Haunter.

She was knocked off her feet by the hit and Sableye blasted her with another Dark Pulse. Viper quickly trapped the Haunter with her Leaf Shield, and let it collapse on him.

Haunter let out a growl of pain at the sharp leaves hitting him from all sides, and was knocked out by Viper's Leaf Blade. Her foe down, she quickly used Vine Whip and grabbed the Sableye.

Sableye turned around and used Night Shade forcing Viper to fall back. This gave Mystic enough time to gather herself and blast his back with Shadow Ball.

Sableye screeched at the super effective attack and disappeared in the shadows, appearing behind Viper and using Night Shade. Viper, having enhanced senses due to Overgrow, quickly saw him and used Leaf Shield behind her.

The two attacks collided, blocking the other, and Viper leapt behind with Leaf Blade. Sableye dodged it and blasting her bare back with Power Gem.

Viper grunted, quickly finding her footing, and readied a Leaf Storm when Mystic collided with her. The two were sent tumbling, courtesy of the Haunter, and a Power Gem plus Shadow Ball dealt further damage.

Bulbasaur tried his best to trap the Banette with his Vine Whip but the Marionette Pokémon easily weaved between. Froslass engaged him in the shadows, using the Mist to her advantage.

Bulbasaur fought against the other Ghost Types instead so they could not engage Froslass. His Razor Leaf and Vine Whips were skillfully utilized.

Frillish decided to assist Froslass seeing her teammate struggle. The duo of Ghost Types worked in nice teamwork, forcing the stronger Banette back.

"Bulbasaur! Return back!" Ash called out. Bulbasaur nodded and ran back to Ash, standing near him defensively. Anpu had sent his Gengar to help the others.

"This is wild!" Anpu exclaimed.

"Why are the Ghost Types so strong here?!" Ash asked. They were strong generally, but this was just ridiculous.

"Due to the Spiritomb!" Anpu answered. "The higher we get, the stronger they are." Ash grunted. "Thank the necklace we have. The story would've been pretty different if we didn't have them."

Ash saw Mystic hit the ground hard, further hurt by the Sableye, and his eyes widened. "Mystic!" Viper jumped in front of her, using a Leaf Shield, and had her back.

"We cannot let this drag on." Anpu growled. "We'll need our strong for later."

"We can run to F4." Ash suggested. "I can have my Lairon create an opening and we'll make a dash."

"We can't." Anpu informed him. "We'll need a Ghost Type under our capture to proceed. Where did the Misdreavus go?"

"Behind you." Anpu turned around in surprise, and was struck by a Psywave. Ash reached for Skylar's pokéball but a Power Gem hit him and knocked him off his feet.

"Ah!" Anpu cried out. Misdreavus sighed in relief, the Pain Split having gifted her some health, and took the form of the Fake Leaf. Ash tried to get up but a Power Gem knocked him back down.

"I can hurt you." She threatened, crouching next to Ash. "And I will." She spotted Ash's necklace and growled. "But I need to get this out of the way first."

The Fake Leaf was thrown to the side, Gengar engaging her. Ash got up, clutching his chest where the Power Gem had hit. "Anpu! You okay?" Ash asked, crawling next to him.

"That hurt." He moaned. Ash helped him up and looked at the Misdreavus engaging Gengar again. "This necklace only helps against Ghost Type attacks." Anpu realized.

"That's why her Power Gem and Psywave hurt." Ash gritted his teeth. "We need to get one of them under our control. We do that, we can escape."

"I like your optimism." Anpu remarked. Ash saw his Bulbasaur engaging two Ghost Types at once and frowned. "That's why that Misdreavus was able to sneak up to us."

"Skylar, I choose-" He was stopped by Anpu.

"We'll need the rest of your team later on." He warned. "The Spiritomb at the top won't go away easily."

"True." Ash sighed. Bulbasaur managed to dispose one of the Ghost Types making Ash smile. "Not all of them are strong. Some are just fodder."

"Hey Ashy." Ash turned around, just in time to see a Power Gem hit him and knock him on his rear. Anpu saw Gengar being brutally attacked by four Ghost Types, completely overwhelming him.

The Fake Leaf looked at Ash and made him freeze. "Don't even think of interfering." Anpu didn't know what hit him, but the primal fear inside him made him step back. Leaf grinned slyly and approached Ash, crouching besides him.

"Lord Spiritomb has blessed me." She purred, trailing a nail down Ash's cheek. "Your puny necklace," She grabbed it with her hand and grinned. "cannot do anything against me." She chuckled evilly and released it.

"H-how?" Ash asked in disbelief. Leaf got up, dropping down and kneeing him hard. Ash gasped, the wind knocked out of him as Leaf pressed her knee inside his stomach.

"I told you I'm going easy." She said, wrapping her hands on his neck and standing dominantly over him. "But you had to challenge me." Her grip tightened, constricting Ash's breath. "Now die."

She was knocked off Ash by Mystic. The Evolution Pokémon yipped angrily at her, daring her to attack. Leaf gritted her teeth and transformed back into Misdreavus, glaring at Ash's starter.

"Why you!" She growled and formed a Power Gem. Mystic yipped and jumped forwards, dodging the Power Gem, and lunged in for a Bite. Misdreavus floated out of her way and shot bright pink blasts from her eyes.

Mystic was hit and hit the ground. Rolling to her feet, she retaliated with a quick Shadow Ball. Misdreavus gasped as it struck, floating back from the power behind it.

Mystic followed up with a Quick Tail, closing in. Misdreavus dodged it again, diving into the shadows and disappearing. Mystic quickly landed and took off into a mad dash.

A Power Gem hit her feet, tripping her, and Misdreavus blasted her with a particularly strong Psywave. Mystic gritted her teeth, enduring it to the best of her ability.

Ash glared at the Sableye who had interfered and saw Viper getting overwhelmed by a trio of Ghost Types. "Reform guys!" Ash called out. Viper quickly used Leaf Shield, pushing the ghosts away, and jumped up with Vine Whip.

The Leaf Shield swallowed the ghosts, trapping them and giving Viper her opportunity. She moved her arms in a slicing motion and the Ghosts cried out.

Bulbasaur drained one Ghost Type with Mega Drain and Vine Whip, throwing it away and approaching him. Misdreavus screeched making them flinch and rushed in.

"Hello." She greeted, appearing in front of Mystic and used Confuse Ray. Mystic had no time to protect herself, taking off guard. The hypnotic effect of the technique took effect, luring her in.

Misdreavus gasped as a tornado of leaves swallowed him, throwing her in the air. Bulbasaur and Viper stood in front of Mystic, letting the Eevee take a breather.

"We need to take out the Misdreavus, Banette, and Sableye." Anpu told Ash. "We do that, they lose their leaders."

"Good plan." Ash said, turning his cap to the side. "We tried splitting them up but that didn't work."

"The Banette is being handled by Froslass and Frillish." Anpu told Ash. "Gengar can take on the Sableye." Anpu looked at the rookie. "You get the Misdreavus and the cannon fodder."

"Sure." Ash agreed, looking at the ghosts. "Skylar I choose you!" Ash threw the pokéball. His Flying/Normal Type Pokémon came out, shrieking. "Viper, Bulbasaur, and Skylar. You guys take on the ghosts." They nodded. "Mystic, we're fighting Misdreavus."

The Misdreavus chuckled. "You'll defeat me?" She asked, not quite believing it. "Think again." Mystic growled challengingly.

"Why don't we find out with a 1v1?" Ash asked. Mystic barked a challenge. Misdreavus gave them an amused look.

"You're funeral." She lunged forwards. Mystic quickly jumped from her spot, speeding away with Quick Attack. Misdreavus disappeared in the shadows making Mystic look around in confusion.

"How can she speak?" Ash wondered. "Mystic! Double Team!" Mystic flickered and a dozen copies appeared. Misdreavus appeared from the shadows, floating high above and using Psywave.

"Shadow Ball!" As the waves washed over her copies, our Evolution Pokémon sneaked behind Misdreavus and blasted her with her infamous Shadow Ball.

Misdreavus let out a pained cry at the hit and quickly countered with Power Gem. Mystic steeled her tail and slashed at it, the Steel Type move breaking the Rock Type move away.

As the two went at each other, we'll move to Ash's other Pokémon.

Viper let loose another swarm of leaves, trapping a Few Ghost Types in one spot, and Bulbasaur blasted them with Energy Ball. Viper let her Leaf Shield collapse on the ghosts, trapping them within the swarm.

Skylar shrieked, lunging from above and slashing through Ghost Types with Quick Wing. Due to her Normal Typing, any Ghost Type attack didn't hurt her and her speed helped her evade any other attacks.

Banette let out a Pain Split, affecting Frillish and making her cringe. Froslass blasted his back with Ice Beam making him cringe at the Ice Type hit.

Frillish blasted him with Poison Stings, delivering the poison her species was famous for. Banette winced as the poison worked its wonders and another Shadow Ball hit his back.

Gengar took on the Sableye within the shadows, fighting ferociously. The Darkness Pokémon was on par with Anpu's starter, something Gengar knew wasn't due to the boost Spiritomb had given some of them.

The battle continued its sound ringing on for the entire town. The residents of Lavender looked at their landmark, the Lavender Tower, fearfully. For they didn't know that someone was fighting to liberate them from the Spiritomb.

"Can it be?" The Elder gasped. "Is Ash… alive and fighting?" A middle aged woman came running in his room, face morphed into worry.

"Elder!" She shouted. "Anpu is inside the tower!"

Mystic skidded back from the latest Psybeam, panting from the long drawn battle. Misdreavus had suffered some damage as well but she was still in far better shape than Mystic.

"Give it up Ashy." Misdreavus mocked. "You'll never win." Ash frowned at Mystic's condition.

"Can you continue?" Mystic nodded. "Good. Shadow Ball!" Mystic formed the ball and let it rip. Misdreavus countered with Power Gem, the two attacks colliding and exploding against the other. Misdreavus levitated inside the smoke, trying to catch Mystic by surprise.

The Evolution Pokémon yipped and attacked her from behind, sinking her teeth into the back of her head. Misdreavus gasped at the super effective attack.

Mystic shook her head roughly making Misdreavus dizzy. She slammed her down, putting a paw on her and, taking a tiny break to breathe, continued to tear into her.

Misdreavus gritted her teeth in pain and let out a Screech. Mystic did wince but didn't react otherwise. Misdreavus's eyes glowed and she took aim at Ash.

Ash's eyes widened at the incoming Psybeam and he dropped to the side, dodging it. Mystic growled angrily and hit Misdreavus into a wall. Misdreavus quickly used Shadow Sneak, reaching for the shadows, but Mystic pulled her back.

"Sableye! Help!" Sableye, who was fighting Gengar, heard that and fired off a Power Gem. Gengar tried to interfere but Sableye struck him with a Shadow Ball.

The Power Gem hit Mystic on her side making her flinch from the pain. Her mouth loosened, and Misdreavus floated free. She turned immediately and used Confuse Ray.

Mystic closed her eyes immediately, shielding herself from the waves, but was unable to see Misdreavus blasting her with Psybeam. She yipped in pain and formed a Shadow Ball.

Misdreavus dove into the shadows, dodging the blast, and appeared at her side with another Psybeam. "Mystic!" Ash called out in alarm. Skylar, seeing Mystic struggling, swooped in and delivered an Aerial Ace to Misdreavus.

Mystic opened her eyes and spun, delivering a Quick Tail into Misdreavus, and slapped her away. The Eevee swayed on her feet before collapsing on her side, knocked out.

Skylar shrieked and engaged Misdreavus in a fight. Ash pulled out her pokéball, trying to return her, when Anpu tackled him down. A Power Gem nearly hit them. "Thanks." Ash told him shakily.

"How's it going with Misdreavus?" Anpu asked.

"She knocked Mystic out." Ash replied. "But Skylar is almost done with her." Anpu nodded.

"Banette is almost down too. Gengar must be finished with Sableye as well." Anpu looked at the swirling shadows that were Gengar and Sableye. "Tell one of your Pokémon to go help Froslass. I'm sending Frillish over to him."

Ash nodded and gestured at Bulbasaur. "Go help Froslass! Viper, can you hold your own for a few minutes?" The Grass Snake nodded and continued fighting. Ash frowned when he saw the bruises and injuries littering their bodies and their panting.

Viper was burned out too. Overgrow took a toll on her energy though not at such a rapid pace as when she was a Snivy. She was fighting through sheer will against the few remaining Ghost Types.

Bulbasaur also was limping a bit. Ash would have to heal them once he finished the battle. Ash saw Misdreavus hit the ground hard and get knocked out, Skylar pinning her down triumphantly.

Banette dodged Froslass's attacks, panting as the poison stacked up heavy damage. To make matters worse for him, Ash's Bulbasaur was restricting his moment any way he can using Vine Whip.

The Marionette Pokémon decided to take down Bulbasaur first seeing as he was blocking him bad. Banette lunged at Bulbasaur, intent on knocking him out.

Froslass emerged from the shades, hitting him with Shadow Ball, and Bulbasaur threw his vines around him, wrapping him and slamming him down.

Froslass formed an Ice Beam and unleashed it, hitting Banette. The Marionette Pokémon struggled against the damage before collapsing. Bulbasaur released him, panting and collapsing down.

Froslass gave him a grateful nod and then floated over to help her teammates. Bulbasaur gathered his energy and got up, looking at Viper who was getting overwhelmed by the ghosts.

The Grass Snake countered a Shadow Claw with her Leaf Blade, using Swords Dance once again and overpowering the Ghost Type. Struck hard, it floated back and Viper quickly finished him with another Leaf Blade.

A Ghastly wrapped itself around her, suffocating her in its poisonous form. Viper dropped to one knee, panting and focused. A Leaf Tornado formed around her, enveloping the Ghastly and pushing it off her.

Viper threw the Leaf Tornado towards the other ghosts, hitting the ground and dropping down. Sweat trickled down her back as she stared at the remaining ghosts.

The numbers were still vast in quantity. Viper felt Overgrow wear off and got up on shaky feet. She stared at the approaching Shadow Balls and Night Shade, trying to form a Leaf Shield.

Her muscles ached with the effort. Viper ignored them and formed the leaves, forming them around her. It blocked the upcoming Ghost Type attacks, failing to break through.

Viper focused, trying to send it outwards. Her control faltered, and the leaves dispersed. A Ghastly sneaked up behind her, hitting her pointblank with a Night Shade.

Viper skidded across the floor, hitting a grave and collapsing there. Her tail leaf twitched as she struggled to find any remaining energy. The ghosts formed another volley of attacks and fired them.

Viper waited for the attacks to hit, tensing. She could feel the ghostly energy approaching her, aimed to eliminate her completely from the fight.

There was a supportive cry, and Viper felt someone stand behind her. The pain she awaited from the attacks never came. Viper opened one eye, looking towards the ghosts.

She was offered a vine instead. Viper looked up and saw Bulbasaur looking at her concernedly, his Protect giving them a few moments of rest.

Viper took it and pulled herself on her feet. Back against the grave for support, the Servine looked at the army of ghosts. The Protect faltered and she prepared herself.

Skylar swooped in for another Aerial Ace, hitting the pesky Ghost Type. Misdreavus disappeared in the shadows, evading her with ease. Skylar shrieked in annoyance and flapped her wings, forming a Gust to help her fellow Grass Types.

"Focus on your own battle!" Misdreavus shrieked from behind, blasting her with Power Gem. Skylar shrieked from the super effective hit and quickly dropped down, regaining control and speeding towards her.

Misdreavus was hit this time, knocked back, and Skylar tried to bury her talons inside her. The Ghost Type let out a chilling scream, forcing Skylar back, and let out a Psybeam.

Skylar countered it with Gust, the two attacks colliding. The avian created a dozen copies with Double Team, diving down on Misdreavus simultaneously.

Misdreavus tried to dive into the shadows, but a Quick Wing caught her and sent her spinning back. Skylar grinned and turned around, hitting her again.

Misdreavus was knocked around repeatedly by the Pidgeotto, unable to make a comeback. Though the confined space of Lavender Tower was not enough for Skylar, she adjusted pretty nicely.

Misdreavus let out a shriek for help as she was tossed around. Seeing none forthcoming from her team, she took matters in her own hands and closed her eyes.

Skylar felt someone stab needles in her back and shrieked. Misdreavus righted herself, invigorated from the Pain Split, and tackled her with a Payback.

Skylar was sent flying back, hitting the ground from the heavy damage. Misdreavus formed a Power Gem and blasted her wing, damaging it. "Try flying now birdie!" Misdreavus taunted, forming a Psybeam and hitting her other wing as well.

"Skylar!" Ash shouted out in worry, seeing his second capture writhe around in agony. There was a chilling cry, and an Ice Beam slammed into the Misdreavus.

Froslass appeared at Skylar's side, glaring at the Screech Pokémon icily. Ash quickly returned Skylar, praising her for her valiant efforts. Looking around the battlefield, Ash saw his Grass Types get overwhelmed.

"Viper!" Ash hollered as the Grass Snake was blasted from all sides with Night Shades. A Shadow Ball later, she impacted the ground and lay limp. Bulbasaur leapt besides her, forming a Protect. "Anpu! We need to-" Ash froze when he saw the trainer out cold.

'This is bad! Very bad.' Ash realized. Ash saw Gengar reform in their plane of existence, reeling from a Shadow Claw. Three of his Pokémon were down already, and only Bulbasaur and Lairon remained. Ash clutched his last pokéball, preparing to throw it.

"Don't." A hand gripped his. Ash turned around and saw Misdreavus looking at him with a sly smirk. Blood dripped from a large gash on her forehead, her left shoulder was exposed to the bone, and her left arm was twisted at unnatural angles.

Ash stumbled back, glaring at the disguised Misdreavus. "It's useless. You've lost." Ash didn't reply, reaching for the Dusk Ball. The fake Leaf's hand shot forward, clutching his tightly and pulling it up.

Ash felt the pressure intensify, and a cracking sound was heard. "Don't." Ash gasped as she squeezed tightly, breaking his right wrist. "Do I make it clear?" She released his hand, letting it drop to his side.

Ash clutched his wrist with his other hand, dropping to his knees and pressing it tightly. "Ow." Ash moaned, trying to ignore the sharp pain shooting up his hand.

"This is useless." She commented, looking over the battle. Bulbasaur was staggering back from the constant hits, trying his best not to collapse. Behind him, Ash's Servine was out cold.

Mystic was close by, knocked out in the cover of a grave. It protected her from the crossfire of the attacks. "You've lost Ashy. Just admit it and join us."

"I won't!" Ash shouted back. "We'll fight till our last breath! I'm not giving in to some stupid ghost!" Leaf's eye twitched and her fist flew forward, hitting Ash's face and knocking him on his back.

"You will!" She roared, slamming her feet on his chest and pressing down. Ash's grabbed it and tried to push it off. Leaf ignored his protests and leaned down, chest on her thigh. "Your friend Leaf is dying as we speak. So is the League Official. Gives all the incentive for you to live, right?"

"Get… off!" Ash struggled. Leaf gave him a sadistic smirk.

"Why will I?" She looked Ash straight in the eye, a hypnotizing yellow light filling. "Enjoy hell Ash. No one is going to save you this time." Ash clenched his eyes shut, refusing to look. Leaf growled and kicked his face hard, crouching down on him.

She grabbed Ash's moving face with one hand and forced one of his eyes to open. "Look." Ash struggled against it. Leaf tried for a few more moments before sighing and getting up.

Ash opened his eyes, looking around. There was pin drop silence, something which scared Ash to no end. "Any illusion." Ash grunted. "And I don't have any bracelet as well."

"Ash!" Ash looked up and saw Leaf, the real one, looking at him. Her entire form was beaten, bloody, and on the verge of collapsing. Her clothes were torn at most places, soaked in her blood and dirty.

"Leaf?" Ash asked eyes wide at her condition. She stumbled, collapsing down. Ash ran towards her. Or at least, tried to.

"That's her." Ash heard Misdreavus whisper in his ear. "The one girl you tried so hard to save, the one girl you doomed your entire team and Anpu to, is about to die."

"No!" Ash shook his head. "This is not true! I refuse to admit that!" Ash hollered.

"Shouting won't get you anywhere!" Misdreavus shouted back. "She's about to die and you need to admit that! Look at that!" She grabbed his cheeks and forced him to look at Leaf.

Leaf was down on the ground, clutching her stomach hard. Ash felt tears reach his eyes at the condition his friend was in. "No…" Ash whispered.

"Yes." Misdreavus smirked, grinning. "She's your Leaf, and she's about to die." Ash felt weak at his knees. "Lavender Tower is your graveyard. I'll personally bury you two together, besides your team."

"I can imagine it." She laughed sinisterly. "You and Leaf, locked in a never ending slumber, close enough but not close enough to touch each other. That'll be a nice end to your stories."

"Your Pokémon will be around you, their bodies damaged beyond recognition." One of her hands touched Ash's cheek, enjoying the warm tears that stained them. "Especially your Eevee. Oh, I'll have tons of fun with her before she's allowed to rest. It's good for you that you won't be around to see her agony."

"Why…" Ash muttered. Misdreavus cocked her face questioningly.

"Did you say anything Ashy?" She questioned slyly, whispering in his ear.

"Why?" Ash repeated. "Why are you so evil?" Ash's voice wavered as more tears leaked his eyes. "What do you get from hurting innocents?" Leaf grinned at his tone. It was completely broken. Just as she liked.

"Because, my dear Ashy." She licked Ash's cheek. "That's what I am. I feed on people's torments and pain. It makes me stronger." Her lips pressed against Ash's cheek, kissing her captive soothingly. "That's what Mew made me to be."

"It's not your fault huh?" Ash asked. "You aren't like this due to your choice. You're forced to be like this."

"Am I?" She asked. "I enjoy being like this, after all." She pointed at Leaf. "She really loved you Ash. The moment she knew you were in the tower, she did her best to save you. Unfortunately for her, all her sacrifices were in vain."

Ash squeezed his eyes shut, refusing to spill any more tears. "Two of my favorite captors are dead within two minutes." Ash saw flashes within his eyes. "Enough chit chat, now die!"

"I won't cut my cake until Ash arrives!" A young Cynthia whined awaiting her best's friend appearance.

"You're so lucky Ashy boy." A small Gary Oak grumbled. "At least your parents are there for you."

"Hey Ashy! Enjoyed your day?" Delia questioned, picking up her toddler.

"Ash! My boy!" Professor Oak called out with pride as Ash won his first mock battle.

"Always fight for the good my son. Never lose yourself in this vast world." Ash's dad advised, the duo watching the sunset from the cliff overlooking Pallet Town.

"Thanks a lot Ash! She wouldn't talk to anyone!" Sophie praised Ash, chuckling as her daughter shyly hid behind her.

"I know you don't like accessories that much but that was the best I could think of." Leaf told Ash nervously.

"You're so brave Ash. I wish I was like you." Ash's friend from Summer Camp commented.

Eevee ran away, his hat on her head. Ash chased after her, a grin on his face as the Evolution Pokémon teased him.

Zeus shocked Ash, waking him up. Ash got up, grumbling as Zeus and Cynthia pranked him for the umpteenth time.

Skylar shrieked proudly, settling on Ash's shoulder. May returned her defeated Dustox, looking at the avian with pride.

"You'll go far." May commented to our Pallet Duo, an honest smile across her face. Ash smiled back while Cynthia tried to avoid the praise due to her shy nature.

"If someone can cave in her cold, scarred heart, it is you." Professor Oak told him.

"This is the Ash Professor Oak spoke so highly about?" Bill blurted.

Ash was harshly woken up as cold water hit his face. Ash glared at the Seadra in front of him who snorted with laughter.

Bulbasaur looked up at Ash with surprise, not quite understanding why Ash was acting polite. "We all mess up Bulbasaur." Ash grinned, crouching next to him and offering an Oran Berry. "Don't worry boy. You won't believe half the things I've done."

"One day, you'll be a mighty strong Charizard." Ash told his Charmander. "But for me, you'll always be this tiny Charmander." Charmander bit his hand playfully.

Viper jumped into Ash's hug, nuzzling him affectionately. That single gesture showed Ash just how much he meant for her. Ash hugged her back.

Lairon grunted with pride as the foe's Pokémon fainted. "Great job Lairon! You're the best!" He looked back and, despite himself, smirked. This was better than he had expected. Lairon didn't have to adjust much. In fact, Ash was the one who adjusted to his style than the other way around.

"You've got potential." Paul grunted. "Train. You'll need the next time we meet."

Ash opened his eyes, remembering every moment of his journey. "No." The Fake Leaf grunted. "I'm. Not. Giving. Up!" Misdreavus gasped as Ash pushed her back and turned around. "Misdreavus, mark my words. I'm going to save Leaf, the League Official, and defeat your famed Spiritomb as well. No one can stop me."

"Wha-what?" Misdreavus questioned, feeling tingles up her spine.

"I'm not going to let everyone who trusted or believed in me down! Try as much as you can to break my spirit down, but you'll fail." Misdreavus gritted her teeth.

"How?!" She questioned. "You were on the verge of dying! How did you recover?!"

"The entirety of Lavender Town believes in me." Ash stated. "My parents believe in me. My Pokémon believe in me. My friends do. My teachers do. My rivals do." Ash closed the distance between him and Misdreavus, glaring at her. "How will I collapse if I have so many supporters?"

Misdreavus stumbled back, fear crawling in her bones. "You- you won't succeed!" She threatened. Ash turned to the downed Leaf.

"Leaf, I'm coming to save you. Hold tight." Ash turned to Misdreavus. "This ends, now." The illusion around him cracked and shattered, taking with it all the silence and fear.

Ash opened his eyes, rolling on his side and getting up. He gasped as his wrist ached with pain. Ash looked at the scared Misdreavus. "No! This can't be!" She wasn't looking at Ash.

Ash followed her line of sight, and saw her looking at Mystic. The only thing was, Mystic wasn't herself anymore.

"Mystic." Ash let out a stunned gasp. "You've evolved."

Xxx

Mystic opened her eyes weakly, feeling her entire body ache. She felt as if a truck had rolled over her and a dozen Giga Drains had drained her.

'Ash!' Mystic gasped, picking her head up, the very motion requiring her best efforts. 'That Misdreavus.' She saw Viper drop down, unconscious. 'Viper! I need to help her.' She tried to struggle to her feet but fell back down.

Her eyes threatened to close at the energy exerted. 'Thank Mew.' She gasped when she saw the Grass Snake be protected by Bulbasaur. Mystic saw herself completely open and struggled, pulling herself besides a grave.

She collapsed back down, lifelessly looking over the battle. Bulbasaur was getting overwhelmed by the many ghosts. She wanted to help him but her body protested.

'No!' She exclaimed when she saw Skylar fall and Misdreavus damage her wings. 'Skylar! No!' Mystic struggled to get up. Her struggles ceased when she saw Anpu's Froslass float over and engage Misdreavus.

Her eyes moved to the other parts of the floor. Bulbasaur was getting overwhelmed and pushed back while Viper laid down, unconscious and limp.

She wanted to get up and help Bulbasaur. Mystic sighed, feeling sad. Misdreavus was her fight but she was unable to take it down. The others all were pretty much done with their fights.

Misdreavus alone took down her and Skylar without much help. That was one strong ghost. Not to mention her constant attacks on Ash.

Ash! Mystic saw Froslass get affected by Confuse Ray and Misdreavus change into Fake Leaf. 'No!' She yelled, seeing her hurt the rookie.Despite her best efforts, her voice came out only in squeaks.

She saw Leaf trying to pull Ash into a Confuse Ray and whimpered. She couldn't allow that! She swore to protect Ash ever since the Hidden Village Incident! She cannot let this happen.

Mystic felt a strange energy rise inside her. It swirled inside her, growing stronger. All these days, the Eevee had been feeling it rise inside her but not come out.

Mystic looked at Ash and the transformed Leaf, seeing Ash fall into yet another vision. Mystic didn't know how the Screech Pokémon pulled that off, but all she knew was that had to change.

She looked around, taking in the battle. Bulbasaur had fallen as well. The two Grass Types were unconscious, vulnerable to whatever the ghosts might try to do with them.

Froslass had banged her head against a wall, knocking her unconscious as well. Gengar was still locked in combat against the Sableye, tired and hurt but not giving in.

Frillish was assisting him the best he could, but the male blue jellyfish himself was stuck between ghosts. Mystic knew the timing was the best right now. If she didn't do it right now, they would lose!

She clenched her teeth, closing her eyes and focusing. All her memories with Ash, both pleasant and unpleasant, flashed in the darkness.

"She doesn't want to be with you!" Ash shouted, standing up and facing her poacher.

"When I grow up, I'll be a trainer too. Just like Dad." Ash told the Evolution Pokémon, the two lying in the grass of the Oak Ranch.

"Eevee. I choose you!" Ash smiled, crouching in front of her.

"Great job girl!" Ash told her as she trained with Pichu.

"We did it! Our first badge!" Ash cheered.

"Eevee, do you think what happened in the hidden village was because of me?" Ash asked his starter, a defeated look on his face.

"We're not giving up Paul!" Ash declared.

Mystic felt the energy surge, enveloping her entire body. She won't let the ghosts harm Ash or their team anymore! Her entire body glowed and began to morph.

Her tail grew shorter but longer, splitting into two ends at the end. The bushy fur she was used to shortened, her features changing into something more sharper. Mystic felt her very essence changing as something protruded from her forehead. The Eevee's legs grew longer, holding her higher as she turned into something more sleek and elegant.

She saw the fake Leaf stumble back, fear evident on her face. Ash got up, staring at her with confidence restored. Mystic saw Misdreavus look at her and her scared expression intensified.

"No! This can't be!" Mystic gave her an intense glare as her form finished morphing. Ash followed her eyesight and his eyes went on Mystic. His jaw dropped as his starter finished evolving, right in front of him.

The light surrounding her vanished. Mystic felt all her exhaustion and pain hide away, the adrenaline from evolution running through her veins.

Mystic could feel a lot of things having changed inside her. For one, she felt her immunity to Ghost Type attacks disappear. Her senses had been highlighted, and she had gained an extra one as well.

The red gem on her forehead shone, exerting its power. Mystic knew she had a lot of things to explore with her new body but right now, her silver eyes and purple sclera were dead set on the tormenter of her trainer, Misdreavus.

With all her energy restored and boosted, Mystic knew she had one last task to do.

'This. Ends. Now.' The Espeon declared.

Xxx

Hope you enjoyed the scares! I've got a few chapters prewritten but am focusing on editing the previous chapters more. Updates would continue to be slow until I reach Chapter 21 in editing. Sorry for that.

On a brighter note, do tell me if I did justice to the hype I built in the previous chapter! It was a high bar, one I tried my best to touch. Please read and review! You don't know the feeling I get when I see the notification of a review!

Do check the revamped Chapter 1! Will appreciate if you review them too and give some constructive criticism for the betterment of Conqueror!

With that said, I'm signing off. Bye for now!

Response to Reviews:

UltimateCCC: I know. I've fixed it in Chapter 1 as well.

Joda-Eragonsson: We all buy things we think we'll have use for but sometimes they don't help at the time we predict. We use them later on in life. Same here.

Cobb: It's in his blood XD

Joda-Eragonsson: You reached from chapter 2 to 21 so soon? You a reading addict like me?

UltimateCCC: Thanks.

Guest: Things haven't even begun yet…

True Master: Soon, very soon…

Nebulae Venandi: Muito obrigado!