Author's Note:

Long time no see my readers! Here it is! THE STORY WE ALL HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR.

Thanks to your wishes of a continuation with this series, we are finally about to embark on the third installment of Silently Broken 'verse! XD Yaaay! I know you all have been eager for this promised story, and I appreciate all your support and patience.

For those of you who are new readers, Sunlight's Return is part of an ongoing three-part saga I have created that explains the absence of the Mr. Ketchum (my version: Jayce Ketchum), how his leaving affected Delia and Ash, and how I've overall tried to have these stories fill in any empty caps or questions about Ash's life and Pallet in general. So basically, my goal has been to make these stories for fans that are hungry for an explanation or those who enjoy the feel of the original series with a twist! XD

I would HIGHLY suggest reading Sunlight's Return's predecessors before reading on (especially Silently Broken, for it might be a tad confusing to new readers). I have added in original characters, extending Ash's family, as well as original twists and turns that might need extra explaining (for example: Jayce and Drake are half-brothers, Ash and Gary are cousins, etc.). These concepts have been so happily accepted by my readers in the past, that I decided to keep them in the series seeing they have become beneficial to the plotline/development of the stories. But of course please don't feel intimidated as a new reader. :) The more readers, the merrier!

Also, just to name a few clarifications regarding Sunlight's Return, this fic will only consist of three pairings. One being the overall predominate shipping, and the other two will be minor. Hence: The minor pairings will be hinted through the story; however, they are not the primary focus of this fanfic. Though they do have their importance and serve purpose. This is not a story solely based on romance, just with elements of it.

Main pairing: Parentshipping (Mr. and Mrs. Ketchum)

Minor pairings: Pokeshipping and Rocketshipping

PG13 CONTENT: Rated T for adult situation, violence, language, mild sexual content, and crude humor.

Lastly, this story takes place six years after Ash set off on his Pokémon journey making him sixteen. When will Pokémon ever officially end and if Kalos is the final region I do not know, but let us assume this would take place after Ash has visited all the regions- or at least the majority of them. ^^; The time scale in the show is so off that this is the best age range I could determine for one of our main protagonists!

Oh, and one more thing after writing one of the longest a/n's notes I have ever written!

DISCLAIMER: Pokémon/Pocket Monsters belongs to Nintendo and Satoshi Tajiri. However, Jayce Ketchum and my other oc's belong to me. :)

Please enjoy, and be prepared for a bellyache of laughs, drama, and surprises to come! That you most definitely must do. ;)

Sunlight's Return

Chapter 1

I Can't Run Anymore

Resurrection.

To rise from ashes and live life to the fullest all over again.

Only a legendary, a guardian of the skies, could make such a miracle occur. The existence and power of such a divine spirit is far too large and complex for a mere being to comprehend. But to surpass…

Then there are those of humanity- ones who fight for life, the others who fight for destruction; in the end neither one will yield to the other, as they both wish to manipulate the power that can collapse all indestructible limitations, and to make those lost rise from ashes rise again, wrongly taken or not-

In the end, it is the control over the great power that they are fighting for.

The pure intentions against the impure intentions.

Evening rolled in just as fast as the citizens in the bustling city of Saffron.

Many of the people retired from their long, draining work hours and ventured off to a particular popular lavish restaurant instead of slaving over a hot stove. The dim-lit establishment was filled with many chattering guests, munching away and indulging on their fine dining experience with talk about their hectic day. All seemed normal. Costumers, workers, orders- that is, till a certain couple strolled into the vicinity. There in the later dinner hours entered a woman with dark blonde hair, dressed in a violet dress with a slit down the front accompanied by sparkling metallic gold earrings. The green haired man beside her wore a simple but finely crafted black suit with his arm tucked around hers. They appeared to be wealthy, spending their money frivolously on the most expensive items on the exquisite menu. However, that was not their main reason for being there.

From there, they approached a waitress at the front of the restaurant. "We had reservations with a Mr. Brimble," the man informed.

Brimble…

The waitress shot her gaze up from her post, catching sight of the couple before her. She blinked momentarily, and then smiled a very crooked grin. From there, the dressed-up woman sneakily slipped a compact mirror out of her indigo clutch; the makeup tool usually used to catch blemishes was a disguise for hiding her true identity and purpose of being there. As the waitress drew her upper body forward to get a closer look, her smile only grew all the more at the compact mirror. She was expecting them. All three of them had their eyes locked again after the confirmation, and with a high head and a wink the worker led them over to their destination.

"Right this way."

They walked past a few occupied tables nonchalantly, going to the back of the restaurant and eventually stopped at a table only serving one. At least currently. There sat an older gentleman in a corner, dressed just as nicely as the one now accompanying him for dinner, and he was busy reading the menu.

The waitress saw he already had a glass of wine, and promptly acted on serving the others. "I will fetch you some drinks momentarily," she stated, gesturing for them to take their seats.

In unison the couple nodded to her as she strolled away, then their attention was turned elsewhere. They were anxious to get down to business.

"Mr. Brimble, right?" the man spoke up promptly, yet in a hushed tone. It wasn't long before the seated man drew his attention up, watching them closely with caution as they proceeded. "We're here about the job. Project H."

For a moment Mr. Brimble stared at them wide eyed, and settled his menu aside. They were the new recruits? "Do sit down."

He was surprised that they were the ones chosen for the mission. The pair was much younger than him, and he wondered how much experience as agents they had under their belts. They had to at least be in their late twenties, so the couple's year of joining was within a wide time span. Then again, it wasn't as if his former boss would just send out anyone for this task.

They had to be the best of the best.

"You two sure you wanna take this on?" the retired man asked wearily as the couple sat down across from him, shocked someone jumped on the job he left behind so willingly. From what he understood, many had been offered the position but refused to take it. And he could hardly blame them.

"It was assigned to us," the dark-haired blonde woman responded first, placing her clutch in her lap, "and my partner and I never steer away from a good fight. Besides, we're supposed to get an extra big bonus if we pull this off." She then looked to her male friend with a confident grin. "And we will."

"Well, I tip my hat to you two," he replied with a half-smile and huff. "But it isn't going to be easy."

Though that claim didn't appear to persuade the confident duo at all.

There was this abundant feeling of pride radiating off the pair, as if nothing in the world scared them. That, Brimble supposed, was the kind of recruits needed for the job. Ones who were willing to face all obstacles, headstrong enough to plow through dilemmas and think tactfully about their plan of attack- and, maybe, not feel sorry for their enemy's situation. Then again, from what he witnessed during his time on duty, those who were unyielding to the most dangerous situations, so stubborn and set on their goal that logical thinking escaped their raging minds completely, ended up being caught in their own trap. And Brimble could second that on a very personal level.

It was only right to give them forewarning.

Seeing his words hadn't done much in shaking their high spirits to a more stable status, Brimble sighed and held onto his wine glass loosely, swishing the liquid back and forth gently. He then met their gaze with serious tension. "Let me just be straight with you. Give you some advice before you two get ahead of yourselves. I've been high-tailing this guy for almost ten years and if it wasn't for my recent retirement, I'd still be out in the field lookin' for him. He's impossible to track down. One minute you think he's in a town, the next he's in a big city that is loaded with people. Then he's winning leagues and off to the next region."

The hired man nodded first. "So we've heard he's a slippery character."

"And that he's a skilled trainer," his partner in crime added.

Brimble just chuckled faintly. They didn't get it. "Slippery and skilled are understatements," he bluntly stated, his smile shrinking. There was this harboring of old, unforgettable memories of those nine and a half years ago, all the disaster that occurred on that boat. Finding his partner dead, to have allowed their captive to escape without much of a fight, sinking their own use of transportation- Oh how cold that water was...

"When I was first assigned to this mission, I lost my partner of five years at the hands of him…it still bothers me today. This guy is clever, so don't be so easily fooled by him. We sadly had to learn the hard way..."

The man had to be in his late fifties to early sixties, which explained why he got the boot. At his age, with the kind of occupation he previously had, he was just a disposable worker no longer fit and young enough to handle all the endurance and heavy stress. Not to mention, the appointed pair had heard plenty from their boss about how displeased he was with Brimble and his entire squad, and how they so pathetically failed at capturing this trainer, not even nabbing one of his Pokémon. Knowing this set a high bar for the younger agents, and if this trainer was as tough and sneaky as everyone said, maybe Brimble's inadequacies weren't his fault entirely...With a nervous quiver of his lip, the man looked to his partner with sheer concern, and while she usually assured his worrying as nothing, she too appeared a tad unnerved by Brimble's words.

How could they not? Never had either one of them taken on a mission in which their object of capture was potentially as quick-witted and possibly a threat.

Brimble automatically took notice of their discomfort. "Now don't get discouraged, 'cause personally I wanna see this guy handed over to the boss and done away with." He did not intend on completely demolishing their blinding egos, only giving them some simple and useful advice before proceeding. Brimble just didn't want to see them disappoint the boss so miserably, waste a good part of their life on nothing, like he shamefully had- and finally see someone successfully catch this trainer.

"He has given me hell for the last remaining years of my career, and I went out as a fool, thanks to him," the former agent went on, bitterness growing between every word. "Wasn't even able to capture one of his Pokémon... But I'm sure you two will pull it off," he abruptly dragged out, trying to shake off the remaining hate he had for the enemy. "You do have his profile, don't you? I'm sure if you do, that you know he has no specific type of Pokémon."

The man nodded first. "We do. It was faxed over this morning."

"But what we're curious to know is his character. His weaknesses and strengths," the woman threw in seriously.

So that's what they were getting at.

Brimble grinned with a slight shake of his head before slurping down his last gulp of wine. Damn, he needed more. "Well if you want to talk about strengths you better be a damn good runner and a fast thinker."

Both the agents' eyebrows lowered, but the man was the first to gulp. And speak. They didn't like the sound of this, nor appreciated his unreadable expression.

"How fast and smart are we talkin'?"

The older man motioned for the waitress to pour him another glass. His eyes narrowed as the liquid hit the cup.

"Exceptionally fast and smart."

"And yet again, the Orange Crew Leader, Drake, wins the match with a crushing victory thanks to Ditto! Ladies and gentlemen, is there anything this man can't do?"

At that very moment, in the sweltering island sun, Drake did feel unstoppable, even as he fought his way through adoring fans and straight back to his private lounge, more exhausted than ever.

Crashing onto the couch, Drake sighed and reclined back into the expensive leather furniture. Thanks to the assistance of the stadium workers, his Pokémon were immediately checked over after the battle, preparing them and Drake himself for their next exciting happening for the day. His last battle. That is, for the season; which meant he was officially off duty of his leader roles and challenges for the remaining summer. It was like music to his ears, relief of immense stress that had been lifted off his shoulders.

His moment of quietness and reflection, however, ended abruptly by the barreling open of the lounge door.

"You were stupendous out there, Drake! Completely awe-inspiring!"

The skilled trainer cocked an eye open, finding his agent, Randy, standing before him with an equally enthusiastic expression of admiration as was in his voice. In some instances, Randy came off more pumped after a battle than he did. Soon Drake chortled at his compliment, and rubbed his sweaty forehead with a small towel. That battle sure was a close one for the trainer! He couldn't deny that. "I think it's fair to say that challenger gave me a run for my money, Randy," Drake replied with a small grin.

"She sure did!" the trainer's agent agreed. "But ya still hit that battle right out of the park! I've already got journalists calling in saying they want to schedule an interview with you," he went on buoyantly, flipping through his cellphone. "Of course, not until you come back from your retreat in the woods."

When did Randy not ever sneak in a chance to tease the man? The busy agent had been working at the Orange League's stadium longer than Drake had the job, and from day one he found a way to get underneath Drake's skin. But he never minded. Randy was harmless, flamboyant, and at times made ridiculous puns and jokes, but was never a considerable pain. After all, Randy sure had a knack for roping the well-known trainer into several interviews with popular journalists, on popular talk-shows that would air in all regions.

"Do you have to put it that way?"

"Oh, I'm just teasin' ya, kid," Randy laughed again, jokingly slugging Drake's toned arm. "I don't blame you wanting to escape all this- well, madness! Speaking of which- Elsa, do you have his ticket?"

Randy's voice bounced off the walls loud enough for a woman with light blue hair to emerge out of a closeby room and travel straight into the lounge area with a calming smile.

"I have it right here, sir," she answered, meandering towards the men with a small, thick piece of paper in her hand. "Here you go Drake," she presented, standing before him. "Enjoy your vacation! You deserve it."

Drake sat up enough to graciously take the item he had so desperately been longing to hold from the secretary. "Thanks, Elsa."

"And don't you dare call to check in!" Randy ordered, wagging his finger. "The stadium will be fine, and I've got Elsa watering your houseplants while you're away."

The trainer nodded, seeing no desire to fight. "I appreciate it. You two are the best an Orange Crew Leader could ask for."

This only led to Drake's agent letting out another booming laugh. "Tell that to the guy before you! Hahaha!"

Typical Randy. Always finding humor in everything.

Eventually, before he became caught up in Randy's ongoing laughter, Elsa stole Drake's attention with a playful smirk. "Now Drake, do you promise to watch yourself? Because you do tend to work when it's not necessary," she remarked, eyeing him carefully.

A faint shade of pink scattered itself across Drake's cheeks. He had been caught red-handed, and couldn't argue the woman's claim.

Ah, Valencia Island. For the last few weeks it had been the place Drake dreamed about going, and now he was finally setting off.

Being the leader of the Orange Crew, the man had several duties to attend to: scheduling meetings with fellow gym leaders, private training sessions with his team, his agent arranging several opportunities for him to appear in magazines and on T.V., conferences held for young trainers seeking advice, and of course, monthly matches in which he gave it his all every time. With hardly any time to himself, Drake always savored the moments when he could escape Pummelo. Christmas was about the only break he got till that glorious warm blooming season- summer. Summer had so many perks for him. It was in summer that the skilled trainer would receive a two month reprieve from work, and then it was back to the stadium once more in September, doing the same old same all over again.

Drake planned on spending every second in Valencia Island doing absolutely nothing. It was a very secluded and quiet island, hardly any dwellers scattered across the land. Besides Prof. Ivy's research lab, the area consisted nothing more than wild Pokémon and breathtaking scenery. Drake was beginning to fantasize about laying out on the beach, hearing the waves crash against the sandy shore, his hardworking Pokémon snoozing peacefully away, and the sun's rays kissing his skin to the point where he earned a perfect tan… Having some time away from all the bustling cheers of roaring, dedicated fans was exactly the kind of reprieve Drake was in need of, and he was glad others saw that, too. There was no way he was going to push himself, no matter how tempting it sounded to train. After all, he and his Pokémon were on the verge of collapsing!

Drake smiled back at his publicist. "Believe me, I won't."

And he meant that with all sincerity.

In no time at all, Drake was given his healed and rested Pokémon, finally releasing him from the stadium entirely. Picturing himself laying on his favorite beach chair with a drink in his hand, the roars of the calming sea crash against the shore and cool water just skimming across his feet... It was the trainer's ideal vision of Heaven on Earth, collecting a sort of peace inside of him as he strolled towards the exit. He was free without any restrictions holding him back.

Well, at least free for roughly a month and a half.

"Bye, Drake!" he heard Elsa yell, waving.

"Have a save trip!" Randy added, standing beside her. "I better not see you come in a day sooner!"

Drake winked back as he glanced over his shoulder. Then, he waved in return. "You won't! See ya, guys! And thank you again!"

With his head held high Drake pushed forward, and his face met the rays of the brilliant sun. The entire front area of the stadium was empty, all of the workers and fans officially gone for the season until the next one. The trainer could only imagine how plugged up the airport was... Eventually, Drake looked down at his plane ticket and grinned an uncontainable one. Claustrophobic the airport might be or not, he didn't care. All he had to do was stop by his house, grab his already-packed belongings, double-check the security of his dwelling, and head straight for his destination and most likely wait in a long brutal line.

Then, he'd be off.

Just think… He thought, leaning his neck back and savoring the feeling of the sun against his cheeks. In few hours we're gonna be on a beach with no interruptions, no worries, and maybe I can at last get an even-layered tan-

However, before Drake could take a step forward or expand upon his wondrous day dream, a sharp sound pricked his ears, clear enough for him to freeze instantly. He dropped his arched neck and stood still with curiosity rising, closely listening to the sound emanating behind him. A faint whistling of a tune that sounded oh so familiar and it came out of the blue...

Wait a minute…

Swiveling his feet slowly, Drake peered over his shoulder, only to find the last person he'd imagine seeing leaning against the building's wall with arms folded across his chest. How long had he been standing there?

The familiar face smirked as their eyes met. The whistling ended. "Hey. 'Bout time you noticed."

Had it really been close to ten years?

Drake could hardly breath, he didn't even blink. Instead, he adjusted his throat and stuttered with such surprise he could not repress it. "H-hey," the young trainer swallowed. He had to tighten the grip on his ticket or else it'd fly away from the shock. "W-what are you doing here?"

The lush green landscape, the peaceful sound of streams running, and the peaks of the high unmovable mountains of home took Ash's breath away every time.

With the company of Pikachu riding on his shoulder, he was drawing closer and closer to the proximity of Pallet Town as he raced along the dirt road, smelling the familiar scent of oak trees' sap and many blooming flowers. And, of course, fields full of farm Pokémon. But that didn't bother the aspiring trainer. All that was on his mind was seeing his family again, visiting the Oak lab, and filling up his and Pikachu's rumbling bellies. That was a definite for sure.

It felt like ages since he was last home, though it was merely just a year since he set off on another journey. While Ash was notorious for not keeping his calls home constant, he did attempt to come home for a short visit before gallivanting off to another region. However, arriving back home this time felt- different for him. Skidding through town with a brilliant smile, Ash passed several familiar buildings and faces, returning their grins with enthusiastic hellos and waves. It was only a matter of time before he reached his destination.

"Hey Greta!" he waved joyfully, slowing up his pace. "See you're still kickin,' Miss Whiskers!"

The old store keeper switched her attention from arguing with a costumer about the overpriced watermelon to the call of her name, discovering the arriving trainer with a similar friendly grin.

"Hi, Ash!" the little old woman greeted back, her elderly Meowth perched at Greta's feet as the feline went on grooming her mangy coat. The costumer groaned in annoyance at being ignored. "Glad to see you're home! Maybe you could take on that summer job I offered you last year!"

For someone else to deal with prickly costumers other than herself.

Ash simply chuckled back awkwardly as he went on jogging. "We'll see!" He hadn't planned on spending forever in Pallet, though it wasn't as if he hadn't thought about staying longer than usual or possibly earning some extra cash on the side...

But the thought didn't linger too long in the trainer's mind, for soon he spotted another familiar face begging to be acknowledged. Well, at least Ash enjoyed innocently teasing this individual.

"Hey, Tom! Nice bag!"

Without hesitation, the middle-aged mailman swung a glance over his shoulder, finding that his conversation with a neighbor (who, on the inside, was pleading for someone to intervene their brutal discussion over the appropriate diameter of a mailbox) was so rudely interrupted by none other than a member of the- Ketchum Clan.

"Now don't you cause any mischief, young man!" Tom hollered back, huffing to himself as he gawked back at his neighbor. How dare he mildly insult his finely woven mailbag! "Honestly, they're upstanding Samaritans when they stay in school, but as soon as they set off on those crazy journeys, you can forget it!"

Crazy indeed Ash's journeys could be at times. But there was always an upswing to them, a rewarding experience for any trouble brewing on his path to reach his goals. However, Ash was thankful to say that hardly any problems arose on his way home. Besides accidently losing his lunch to a pair of sneaky Rattata a few days ago, things had gone smoothly for him.

And he couldn't wait to share all his positive tales with his loved ones.

He passed by a couple other familiar businesses and residents, sharing equally pleasant smiles and hellos with the other townsfolk. After traveling to so many different cities in various regions, not one of them could compare themselves to Pallet. The quaint town had its own unique secure environment Ash could not explain but love. If one was born and raised there, one would understand quite clearly without exchanging a single word about it.

And that was a fact.

A smile inched its way into larger growth as Ash's steps slowed up incredibly, finally standing outside his destination.

The Butterfree Inn was like a second home to Ash, an establishment his grandparents owned, in which he had to entertain his younger self while his mother was busy working between desk work and in the kitchen. But he never minded. Seeing as so many trainers stopped by to rest there, Ash was able to catch glimpses of various Pokémon at a young age, possibly playing a part in his adoration for the amazing creatures.

Walking briskly in, Ash marveled at the inside interior.

The decor sure had changed considerably since his last visit; wallpaper being updated, cabinets and the staircase refurnished, and it looked as if the rugs had been replaced as well. But the warm feeling of home hadn't dissipated at all.

Nor had the front desk been moved.

Ecstatically, Ash made his way to the check-in area, only to find no one. That didn't shock him, considering how busy the business was, especially during lunch, and well, it would just make his early arrival all the more of a bigger surprise.

Soon Ash leaned over the counter playfully, smiling mischievously as he rang the bell on the desk. From there, he drummed his fingers excitedly on the wood, wondering who would rush to the counter for his assistance. The squeak Pikachu gave away, though, alerted the trainer as to who it was. Ash's grandmother, Leah, about let out a delighted shriek as she came around the corner, but quickly resisted the urge as Ash pressed a finger to his lips. Leah smiled back playfully, nodding as if she understood his intentions.

Still, she couldn't resist the happiness she felt of seeing her beloved only grandson again.

"I'm looking for a Delia Ketchum," Ash explained jokingly once she walked behind the desk as if she was helping an average costumer. "Ya seen her around?"

Leah's smile softened with an affirmative nod. "I will get her for you." Walking away, she rounded the corner again and loudly yelled for her daughter, hoping it would force her to emerge out of the kitchen, though she knew Delia was busily occupied back there. "Oh, Delia! You have a special someone here to see you."

The older woman could hear her daughter's feet once they reached the door, and her voice rose with pure curiosity, not catching on at all. "A special someone?" Delia repeated, looking at her mother, and Leah led her to where the person stood waiting. "I wonder who it could-"

Then she saw him.

In one big grin, Delia about felt tears of happiness slide down her cheek as she caught sight of a young, strapping but familiar messy-haired teenage boy standing before her. He was home, finally home! "Oh, my baby! My baby! You're home!"

Ash chuckled lightheartedly, bracing himself. "Hi, Mom."

Her arms were wide open as she approached Ash, quickly enveloping him in an unbreakable motherly hug. "Oooh, I've missed you so much, Ash!"

"Mom, you're squeezing me too tight!"

Even with puberty settling in and building nicely defined muscles, Ash swore his mother's strong bear-hugs had not diminished at all in tightness. Especially for a small-boned woman herself.

"Oh, I'm sorry, honey!" Delia quickly apologized, drawing back. Her silly smile beamed with slight embarrassment, but it immediately washed away at the sight of the mouse perched on top of her son's left shoulder. "And how could I forget you, Pikachu?"

Pikachu's eyes lit up. "Pika, Pikachu!"

"How you've been, sweetie?" she asked, scratching underneath the mouse's chin. "Has Ash been feeding you as well as he eats?"

In return Pikachu cooed happily at her question, enjoying every ounce of attention. Ash laughed a little at his mom's remark, and beamed up at his upbeat friend. "Hehe, no worries, Mom. Pikachu always gets his meals and my table scraps."

He still hadn't outgrown wearing a hat, and at this rate Delia didn't think he ever would. However, he had grown significantly in height. He was now his mother's height, and Delia swore it was only a matter of time before he'd tower over her. Ash was truly maturing into a handsome young man, and she couldn't expect any less. He was gleaming so radiantly like his absent father, and seeing him with that big silly grin, not understanding Delia's bittersweet expression, only furthered to tug on her heart strings.

"I can only imagine," Delia replied back wittily, giving Pikachu one last pat on the head before moving her hand away. Then, her gaze shifted back to her son. "As happy as I am to see you two, I wasn't expecting you to be home so soon."

"I caught an early boat ride, train, and once Pikachu and I hit Viridian there was no stopping us from running. We've missed ya, Mom," Ash blushed a little, rubbing the back of his head. "And Pallet."

"Well, I am so, so happy to have you both back home-"

"Did I hear Ash? Is he really here? Oh, he is!"

Once Delia wrapped Ash up in her embrace, Leah had disappeared to go fetch Michelle, who was equally tickled pink to see Ash home at last. A close family friend to the Parker and Ketchum family, she had become like a third grandmother to Ash. And another family member who he couldn't help but love for their renowned culinary skills.

"Uh- hey, Michelle!" Ash greeted in return as Leah and she joined them. "Long time no see."

"Long time no see, it is!" Michelle replied, placing her hands on her hips. "We haven't heard from you in months!"

To have three mother-figures dotting over one like one was a prince of a faraway land would be what most would consider fortunate. However, Ash sometimes felt as if he was a little too fortunate.

"I know, and I'm sorry about that. Sometimes I just get so wrapped up in my training I forget to call."

Typical Ash response.

This wasn't the first time he received a lecture from any of the women, and while he knew that they were teasing him half of the time and understood his situation, Ash couldn't help but feel bad for his habit of not calling. It wasn't as if he didn't want to call, it was just that he would let his proper manners slip, or in other instances, he simply needed some time to himself. Some independence. Yet with independence came responsibility, and as a growing teenager Ash would occasionally falter in that department.

But Delia and the others knew that all too well, and of course, accepted it as such. She could read Ash like a book, and the sheepish expression of knowing he was guilty of something unintentionally or not was always a dead giveaway. After all, Ash was never swift at hiding his emotions whether it was him drawing on the walls at age three or accidently breaking the structure of one of his bunk beds from jumping at age ten. Or forgetting to return phone calls at age sixteen.

"Well, try to call more often, dear, because we miss having you around," said Leah, a sly smile seeping from her lips as she eyed with a wink. "Plus if you stay in one spot long enough, we could actually send you a care-basket."

A care-basket full of nothing but homemade goodies. Ash had been deprived of one of those for too long.

"Yeah, I probably should stick around for those. I do miss all your guys' cooking!" Ash chortled, now thinking about how long it had been since he had a well-prepared, home-cooked meal.

"Well, you will be deprived of it for no longer because your grandma and I will whip up a special lunch while you and your mom catch up," Michelle promised, more than willing to make something. Though, her eyes drifted uncertainly up to her friend, unsure if it was wise to volunteer Leah to cook without her consent. "That is what you were thinking, right?" she asked, biting her lip.

Leah smiled back, without any disagreement. "You've always been able to read my mind, Michelle. Go ahead and relax, you two," she said, gesturing her grandson and daughter towards the dining room.

Ash lowered his eyebrows. "But what about you guys? I wanna catch up with you too."

"Oh, you will at dinner!" Michelle reassured, already beginning to scoot back to the kitchen with Leah. "Just save us a few adventures your mother hasn't already heard."

Both of the women found Ash to be an important individual in their lives, but that was nothing compared to the bond between the mother and son. And more than anything, Michelle and Leah wanted to see the two catch up. After all, they had seen Delia mope for too long in her times of missing her little boy.

Settled on her answer, Ash nodded. "Can do."

With a nod to seal the deal, Michelle bounded through the swinging kitchen doors with Leah behind her, leaving Ash and Delia to venture off to an empty table.

"So uh, the inn looks great, Mom," Ash commented, still in awe by the interior change as they began to walk.

There was no denying that the inn needed to be updated, and with more costumers pouring in the women were able to do just that. Ash could surely see his grandma's and mother's taste cast upon the entire entry room and into the dining hall. Its quaint chic homey-vibe of a French-Country style mixed with antique pieces surely spoke them, and the overall simple vibe of Pallet.

"Thanks, pumpkin," Delia humbly said. "Your grandma and I have done a lot of remodeling in the last year, and we've been getting a herd of tourists because of the new website we put up. And well, Michelle's cooking!"

"You guys finally have a website?"

They reached a table right in front of a recently cleaned window, getting a beautiful view of the flourishing flowers planted out in the front. Most likely Delia's doing.

"Hmhm," the mother nodded, taking a seat across from her son. "It's been bringing in quite the revenue, not to mention a food critic."

Ash almost dropped his hat as he removed it. A food critic? "Someone came to review your food?" It was rare to have anyone famous or important in the outside world stroll into their little corner of reality, however it wasn't as if Delia's and the others' cooking didn't deserve to be glorified.

He soon sighed as Pikachu jumped into his lap, already cooing for some of the sugar cubes placed on the table for tea. But Ash absentmindedly dismissed his Pokémon's hunger pains, still flabbergasted over all the dramatic changes in just merely a year of his absence. "Sure looks like I missed a lot..."

His travels, badges, and competitions in leagues were definitely on the top of Ash's priority list. He couldn't remember a time when he hadn't dreamt of leaving his reclusive town to go out exploring the world and to see as many wondrous creatures as he could. However, now being a bit older, maybe even a tad wiser, he was starting to appreciate the smaller things in life and understand how good he had it before he left.

And all the memories he left behind.

Seeing her son shift in a guilty state, Delia reached out warmly for his hand. "Don't feel bad about it, Ash," she assured honestly. "You've been out sightseeing, battling- Living your dream!" How else could Delia sum it up? Since Ash could talk, she knew how much Pokémon meant to him, and how much he wanted his future career to revolve around the mysterious beings.

"We'll have plenty of time to catch up. And if you stick around longer than for a day or two," she continued, trying to lighten the mood as she placed a napkin in her lap, "you might not miss some of the action."

Her words of confidence performed the usual positive trick they did, quickly snapping Ash out of his discourage state and seeing Pikachu was chattering for the sugary treat.

The teenager's grin widened as he grabbed a small handful of sugar cubes.

Ash couldn't agree more with his mother.

"I still don't understand."

"I told you, I'm not doing this anymore."

Since when? was Drake's initial thought.

And he could hardly take his eyes off of him. Jayce...he was really here.

Having his half-brother of five years older waltz to his home island sent an indescribable chill down Drake's spine. They had not seen each other in many years, only communicating rarely through the use of video phone, and even then the calls were sporadic. If anything, Jay usually sent the occasional letter and even if he did phone his little brother it would only be on his birthday or Christmas morning. Nothing more than that.

So to see him sitting beside him at Drake's favorite local bar, appearing so calm and to himself… Jay had aged a great deal since they last spoke. He had noticed his maturing when they talked over the phone, but finally seeing his older brother in person really showed how much he aged. Ten years could really change a person. Ten years on the road, on the run for that matter. It wasn't as if Jay's physical features had worsened, just… changed. He had done something Drake never thought he would, which was letting his hair grow out. Thick wavy midnight locks struck a little above the mid-section of Jay's neck, and it looked as if he gained a bit more muscle mass to his upper body, probably from all the physical activity. Still, it could not compete with the guns Drake had on his arms. Not to mention, how tiredness was blindingly obvious in Jay's eyes, as if it had at last caught up with him. Maybe it was simply due to lack of sleep or food, but Drake had a feeling that the cause of Jay's haggard appearance was something else entirely.

Drake looked oddly at his brother, watching him slurp casually away on his alcoholic beverage. He was still trying to wrap his abrupt presence around his head. "Not doing this anymore? I'm sorry, but have you forgotten why you've been doing this-"

"I've found a way out of this mess. Take a look."

As he watched Jay rummage through his pant pocket, Drake's mouth drooped into a confused frown. Why was he appearing so nonchalant, so serene about their encounter, his questions? After all, Jay's departure from Pallet had been a huge deal, and that was no understatement. Being caught in part of the predicament, and then listening to his older brother explain why he had to leave home, why he was acting so out of sorts- for Jay to just drop by Pummelo like there were no unresolved issues after all these years was beyond baffling to Drake. And he anticipated anxiously for an answer.

Why would he come at a time like this?

Then, without words the answer struck Drake.

Opening up his wallet, Jay shoved his fingers into a leather slot and slammed a card directly in front of his little brother. Drake leaned forward to get a closer look, and had to resist a loud gasp from flying out of his mouth. "Oh, my gosh!" He shook his head a couple of times with a few blinks, amazed by what was presented to him. Drake never dreamed he'd see one! An authentic one that was owned by someone he was close to on top of that. Related to boot!

Adjusting his voice, Drake shot his gaze back at his brother, bearing a silly, stupefied grin. He couldn't decide if he needed to focus on the card or Jay. "Jay, do you realize what you've just accomplished? This is history in the making! Y-you have officially earned the right to be the called the greatest trainer of this decade, maybe even this century!-"

Jay sneered sarcastically, and then he took another gulp of his drink. "You're making me blush."

"This is amazing!" Drake continued, ignoring his older brother's remark. The bombshell was taking its time wearing off. "How did you manage to do this?"

"Honestly I don't know... It just sorta- happened," he summed up, now staring seriously into the half-drunken liquid. "After winning the Indigo League and defeating their Elite Four I thought, why not try winning them all? And somehow, it all worked out."

Somehow it worked?

Drake's overly joyful smile slipped back into a frown as he observed Jay casually continue to drink. Making that kind of grandiose achievement wouldn't happen overnight, nor because one 'just felt like it.' Then again, this was Jay who he was talking about, always managing to surpass fellow trainers without a logical explanation other than that he was highly gifted. But to have the highest ranking title a Pokémon trainer could ever dream of reaching… Most would simply give up on the goal or drive themselves mad just attempting to make it come true. So many great trainers who had earned rights as champions failed in ever earning the title 'master'. But not this one.

Drake held his hand out. "Hold on a minute. You seriously just pursued this career that thousands of trainers try to do daily just for kicks?"

Jay shrugged. "If you want to put it that way, sure. It was never my intention to become a master, but after a while I suppose I subconsciously dreamed of it. I mean, it was better use of my time than constantly being on the run from 'you know who'."

You know who indeed.

Drake received a shiver at the mention of the criminal, understanding fully as to why Jay would want to distract himself with something much more fulfilling and...positive.

"I guess you make a good point... Well, congrats!" he finally burst, seeing there was no reason to argue, even though a part of him found it baffling Jay earned the title on such pure luck with hardly any ambition. Still, this was Jay who he was talking about. "A part of me isn't really surprised you pulled this off, then again-"

"It is usually an impossible goal to reach, especially by some thirty-five year old guy who was born and raised in a nowhere town called Pallet."

Drake cocked a smile. "You're the exception of the rule, Jay. Man, I just can't stop staring at this!" the trainer exclaimed once more, shaking his head in awe all over again. "I can't believe I'm holding a Pokémon Master's license, seeing one for the first time!"

"It's the real deal, Drake. All it needs is a stamp of approval by Mr. Goodshow and I will officially be your superior." Jay looked over his shoulder cautiously, and eventually whipped back around in a low careful whisper. He had made that into a habit. "And will you keep your voice down?"

Drake was still stuck on the "I will be your superior" comment. "I don't think it works like that," he said, dismissing Jay's request. "And by the way, have you told anyone about this?"

It was only matter of time Drake asked that question. Jay knew that.

"You and Sam are the only ones who know," he answered. "The league told me to keep it hush-hush, but they said I could announce the news to only close family members as long as it didn't get leaked out to the public."

It made sense, seeing there hadn't been a Pokémon Master in close to fifty years, and such a big announcement should be made during a ceremony of the trainer's home region without spoiling the surprise of the identity of the newly-crowned master.

Yet, Drake found it odd they allowed Jay to tell someone who wasn't exactly related by blood.

"Sam's not technically family-"

"He's close enough," Jay finished, his voice lowered.

Close enough... Close enough to be the substitute till he could reconcile with Delia and his other family members, if ever? Drake figured as much, seeing as he and Sam were the only ones who knew of the predicament. Yet, a part of him felt as if Delia should know, regardless of the situation.

"So that means Delia has no clue," he more so stated than asked, his brows dipping down.

"Now why on earth would I ring her up and tell her after being separated for nearly ten years, Drake?" retorted the newly acclaimed master, giving Drake an incredulous look. "I can just imagine how well that conversation would go."

"Well she's going to find out sooner or later when they hold the ceremony," Drake reminded evenly.

Sooner or later was right.

Time was certainly running out, and Jay hadn't even mentioned yet that the ceremony was to be held sometime in the middle of August, only giving him a few weeks to get there. And being already in the second week of July made him realize that all the more.

"You think I don't know that?" Jay countered. "I've already got a plan spinning in my head anyway. That's partially why I'm here to see you."

Immediately, Drake's face went pale. He wasn't seriously thinking- "Oh, no. Jay, don't tell me you want me to tell her-"

Drake hadn't spoken to Delia in many years either, and being the spawn of an affair between Jay's father and his deceased mother of an islander, didn't make their lives all rosy and peachy. Sure Jay's mom accepted Drake through time and forgiveness, and rekindling happened between her and the boys' father- but it didn't make things any less awkward. And being the only relative knowing of Jay's whereabouts and for him to drop the bomb on his estranged sister-in-law as if it was not out of the ordinary, would be not only out of the blue, but highly uncomfortable. After Jay left Pallet, Drake didn't bother coming around much. He never made his existence known to his half-nephew and since he was always so flaky, Delia never sought for his company.

Whether people accepted him and wanted him to participate more often in family get-togethers, Drake never felt like he fully belonged. Like he was just the thorn in everyone's side.

Sometimes in his eyes, it was best for no one to know of his scandalous existence.

But none of them saw it that way.

"No, no, no! I've got a much better role for you," Jay quickly clarified. His eyes then trailed over to the bartender, who was busy polishing glasses with a cloth. The trainer then looked down at his drink. He needed a refill if he was going to have to explain all of this.

"Hey," he soon called, capturing the worker's attention. The burly bartender stomped over and loomed across the counter, though his tough guy demeanor didn't scare Jay as he casually held up the empty glass in his drink. "Get me another one of these, will ya? And leave off the stupid umbrella."

Whether he knew his remark would tick the bartender off or not, Jay did not care, and saw the worker hold back a roll of his eyes and growl as he snatched the glass away. "Sure thing, buddy," the man replied, repressing the urge to lose his temper. No one paid him enough to deal with picky costumers. "Not like you have the right to order me around. Like you're the Pokémon Master or something for God's sake..."

The slip of his tongue was easily caught by Drake's ear, and whether Jay heard it or not was not shown forth on his face as vividly as his. The last thing either one of them needed was to be booted out of the bar due to a ridiculous order of the removal on an umbrella.

"Please do not get us kicked out of this bar," Drake pathetically begged, eyeing the bartender cautiously. "It's the least prone to attract violent loudmouth alcoholics and bad music."

Jay snorted and wrinkled his forehead in disagreement. "You call this music good? I swear if I hear another twang from that ukulele the twitching in my eyebrows will become hideously noticeable..."

Same old Jay yet somehow... different.

"You've- changed," Drake suddenly commented, watching his brother curiously.

Swaying his head over steadily, Jay raised a brow with a peculiar eye. "A good or bad kind of change?"

Drake's smile persisted with a calming nod. "Good."

He seemed more- confident in himself. He didn't know why, he just sensed it. Though Drake supposed ten years on the run would force you to have a little faith, a blinding confidence and strength in yourself. Even when sometimes it caused more trouble than good.

"Well if that's how you feel about my maturity growth, then maybe you won't mind accompanying me."

As he blinked back in confusion Drake's smiled faded. What on earth was Jay talking about?

"Accompany you? To where?"

"I've snagged us a plane ride to Fuchsia City that will be setting off in roughly four hours. From there, we have to travel to the Indigo Plateau in time for the ceremony, and hopefully I will be able to gain the league's trust and fill them in on-" he paused so abruptly that Drake wondered if Jay lost his train of thought. But that was not the case at all.

"Operation TR," Jay at last whispered as he threw a 'you know the code' expression.

And realizing what the code meant automatically sent Drake into a puzzled frenzy. "Wait, hold on minute!" the trainer urged, raising his hands up. "You're throwing too much at me at once!"

"Was I not speaking slowly enough?" Jay snorted with a hint of annoyance. "Ultimately, I'm hoping the league will get me out of this jam. Messing with any member of the Elite Four or the league itself would be a risk Team Rocket might not even want to take. If they believe me, there's no way the authorities won't be involved. They'd have to track them down."

"And you just magically hope this will all wash away and everything will be right as rain?" Drake asked, still stunned by the plan.

"Basically," he replied. "I know it's a stretch, but it's the best option I've got. And to be perfectly honest... I'm tired of running, Drake," Jay finally sighed, fully showing his immense physical fatigue through his voice. "I want to settle down again, have a job, have a home, be with my family..."

Jay fell silent for a few moments, contemplating quietly to himself. Then, a bittersweet smile escaped from his lips. "You know I saw his Indigo League match?" he said at last, gazing back at Drake. There was an uneasy shakiness in his blue eyes. And Drake's shook back. "I stopped watching after that because it became too painful for me. All that I've missed- all the hurt that I've caused him... God, that was just six years ago and I can only imagine how much he's matured since then, but seeing him... Knowing I left a six year old boy who morphed into a ten year old made me really see just how much time had passed," Jay continued, looking up, and the smile he once bared was now gone. It was more of a- disappointed and shameful frown.

"Now an additional six years has been added to that distance between us... I miss him, Drake. I miss him miserably."

Drake couldn't even begin to imagine. He, himself, was not a father nor even attempted staying in a long-time relationship. While the highly-acclaimed trainer was showered with many gifts, Drake was never great with familial connections. But as gruff and stoic as Jay could be at times, he knew with all his heart that his older brother was a damn good father and husband. After all, hadn't the sacrifice he made been enough proof to justify that?

It must have been pure torture for Jay to see his son, and know there was no way he could safely make contact with him.

"I need to get back to them," Jay declared, his expression morphing back into a confident one. "I can't do this anymore- I just can't. That's why I need your help."

His help. It was a rare occasion for Jay to ask for someone else's help, especially from Drake. However, as permissible as requesting for his little brother's services was, a twinge of uncertainty couldn't help but ride inside of Drake as the proposal wafted in his mind. He wasn't sure whether to say yes or no.

The Indigo Plateau was a long ways away from where they were currently and imagining the various tolls he would take if he agreed to travel back there with Jay made his head spin with great nausea. Heading to Fuchsia by plane was logical, and taking a ferry from there to Cinnabar Island where they would eventually reach the back of Pallet Town, behind the mountains... But Drake assumed that his brother wanted to avoid that quick route altogether considering he left Pallet for a reason. That meant going the long way; heading up through Vermillion, Saffron, and into Cerulean, then right into Mt. Moon... That would be one draining and treacherous journey. Not to mention, how many exhausting weeks it would take to trek to their destination, and with Team Rocket most likely on their trail the entire time...

It wouldn't surprise Drake at all if Giovanni got wind of what Jay was up to, and imagining the result of it made him nearly black out.

But what other choice did his older brother have?

Jay was tired, clearly wiped out with hardly any gusto to make another tedious adventure happen. He wasn't a teenager anymore, filled with abundant youth and exuberance. He was a man now, a man who had proven he could take care of himself in the most dire and dangerous circumstances possible, but had been so rundown from it he wanted to wave a white flag and surrender. This wasn't what he was supposed to be doing with his time; this wasn't how he was supposed to be living his life! Drake knew being a trainer was a big part of Jay, yet being a father and husband was an even bigger and more important portion.

But what was the guarantee anyway that this would work? As much as he wanted to see Jay back home and for this whole issue to be resolved, was it honestly worth the risk? Was their safety worth it? Was it worth wasting his vacation time? His sanity?

There was a heavy amount of indecision riding inside of Drake, fighting with his inner self. He felt selfish for not being willing to share his only available free time; then again, this idea could turn out to be a real trap he'd regret in the end. And did Drake even have any energy left to deal with ruthless thugs like Team Rocket? Plus all the stress and anxiety? This was all so last minute, too.

Adjusting his throat, Drake captured Jay's gaze with his own: a serious one that would not tolerate any negotiations. His mind was made up. There were too many bad factors, and he was too stubborn to see the other way. "Listen Jay, I've got a flight in less than three hours to board to Valencia Island. I'm not going to miss my chance for some quality alone time, my vacation time, to go some crazy adventure!"

Jay just stared at him for a moment, wearing that poker face that Drake could never crack. He couldn't tell whether his older brother was upset with his definite decision or not. Jay was always gifted at hiding his emotions, for better or for worse. Every time he sat or stood pondering to himself, wallowing in his own concerns or dreams, Drake was never quite able to figure what Jay was exactly thinking about.

Keeping to himself was something Drake believed to be a learned behavior. But now more than ever, it appeared as if Jay was born with his reclusive nature.

At last, Drake's startled expression broke as Jay finally released a shrug. "Suit yourself."

Acting like his little brother's decline didn't matter, he leaped up from his chair and left the payment on the counter for the bartender. From there Jay shoved his hands into his pant pockets, turning to Drake, who was still seated. "But you know in the back of your mind you will be beating yourself up for not coming along. Especially if something happens to me," Jay managed to smirk.

Drake just huffed, and cocked a sarcastic eye. "You've survived this long on your own."

"It was worth a shot. Have a nice vacation, Drake."

A casual wave leaped from his fingertips as Jay began to stroll away, once again not showing as if it all mattered to him. Yet this time Drake felt that it did, and he didn't need Jay to pout or get angry with his refusal to realize that.

Swiveling back in his seat, Drake starred into his barely touched drink. Thinking. Long and hard about everything. Weighing out the pros versus the cons, and what was more important. His precious vacation time or a chance for his older brother to have his life back.

He should have thought about it more carefully before he opened his big mouth.

It was the perfect opportunity for Jay to strike back, there was no denying that. However, was it really as flawless and likely to work as it sounded? Drake didn't think so, and he was surprised his usually methodical brother was confident enough to jump on the bandwagon. Taking a step back and imagining himself in Jay's shoes did change the trainer's perspective somewhat- laying out the whole scenario, trying to comprehend the feelings of anger, sadness, and loss his brother had lived with, was still living with... Then there was the reminder of two souls who had been forced to live in darkness, and believe in only the worst of the man who 'betrayed them.' To think of the burden and the guilt Jay had to be carrying... Maybe his desperation and riskiness made- sense.

And maybe Drake was being a tad selfish. His needs were petty compared to Jay's after all...

At that moment, he wanted to groan so badly. Jay didn't even bother making him feel adamant about his decision, and here was Drake, ready to turn himself in for being a horrible brother. Looking at the whole picture with a clear mind- there was no other answer but the one Drake didn't like.

But he accepted it, anyway.

Not much time passed before Drake jumped out of his seat, hurrying to the front door of the bar. If they made out of this safe and sound, Jay was going to owe him big time. Heck, maybe the Orange League Division would give him extra vacation time if this mission pulled off without a hitch!

Swinging the door wide open, Drake found Jay already wandering to the sidewalk. "Jay!" he called out, rushing down the steps. "Jay, wait."

Drake's holler worked, stopping Jay in his tracks and soon he beamed over his shoulder. "So you've changed your mind, huh?"

He figured he'd crack.

Drake's eyes narrowed and he folded his arms. "If I come along with you, there are going to be some terms."

Terms. Jay expected as much.

"Shoot," the master said.

"One: The moment we reach the Indigo Plateau and I know you're safe and sound, I will relax for the rest of my well-spent vacation on Valencia Island." If there was any left at all for that matter. That thought brought a cringe to Drake, but he shrugged it off as he persisted assertively. "Two: I'm not getting involved in your martial issues. It's your and Delia's business, and if I must vouch for your absence as legitimate, then I will. But that's it. I'm no therapist who can mend these sort of- estranged relationships."

A scoff was returned as Jay's cheeky smile grew. "You just don't want her mad at you."

"And three: God forbid if we somehow die from all of this," he carried on, now pursuing the worst case scenario, "I would prefer not being laid to rest in the annex with Aunt Maude. I know I'm only 'half' of the 'pristine Ketchum line,' but I will not be placed there. Not over my dead body. And there is no pun intended on that last part!" Drake threw in hurriedly, before his older brother had a chance to make some wise-crack remark.

Great Aunt Maude was one of the few disliked members of the Ketchum family, for her bad jokes and little spark of wit brought that on promptly. Maude never quite comprehended that her jests were terrible. As Jay's mother would sum up so kindly in five words: "She was a complete idiot."

To Drake's surprise, Jay simply shook his head with a sigh. The last term sure wasn't what he was suspecting. "Your ghostly self will have to take that one up with Mom," his brother said, with a shrug. "Though at the rate I'm going, I'm sure I'm going to be the one sharing that less desirable resting place with crazy Aunt Maude."

Ash kept himself occupied while he waited for the day to draw to a close.

He kept tabs on the front desk, while Delia gave extra support to Michelle in the kitchen, and reprieve Leah of standing for so long. Though as the hours drew closer to evening, Leah shooed Delia and Ash out, telling them to go on and head for her house for dinner, and that she and Michelle would arrive in an hour or so to join them. So the mother and son duo left them to their own devices, and were more than thrilled to exit the business for the day.

Not to mention, Ash was still electrified enough to find elation in seeing his grandfather Ernest again. His grandparents' cherished farm had greatly influenced his love and respect for Pokémon, and he was always fascinated with his findings on the slice of Heaven every time he willingly (or sometimes unwillingly) traveled across the dirt road to lend a hand.

Another burst of warm fuzzy feelings of home soared through the trainer as he and Delia took their first step up the Parkers' front porch. Everything looked the same on the outside. Wide open fields with Tauros predominately roaming free, the barn for the Rapidash looking as rustic and red as ever, the Miltank slowing down for the day before crawling into their hay ridden beds, and the front door with a loose hinge that Leah had been pestering Ernest for years to fix…

Everything looked the same yet- something felt a little different inside Ash as he gawked at his surroundings.

He brushed them off rather quickly, though, as he and his mother invited themselves in, and what he was about to discover would truly throw him for another loop.

"Hey, look who it is!"

"Hi, Ash!"

Ash's mouth dropped open as Delia closed the door behind them, stupefied to see the person standing before him working away on dinner.

"Dani?-"

Before he could delve into asking why his cousin was in the neighborhood, Ash was smothered to the floor by a pair of elderly Jolteon, who even for their age still had enough vigor to greet him with full-hearted barks and licks. "Hey, you guys!" He laughed faintly to himself as he pet the old mutts, Pikachu just barely balancing on his shoulder from all the commotion. "This is some welcoming party! I guess you both really missed me!"

Ash knew for a fact that he was missed dearly by his family, but he didn't think they'd all (including the family's pet Pokémon) give him a big "welcome home" considering this wasn't the first time he ventured away from Pallet.

The nudging and pawing Ash received from the electric dogs didn't last long as a pair of familiar feet stomped over to him, commanding the Jolteon to heal. "Rex, Fly! Get off of him!"

They hurriedly obeyed without resistant by Ernest's command, and soon the gruff farmer lent out a hand to his fallen grandson.

"Uh thanks, Grandpa," Ash said, rising to his feet.

"No problem, sport," Ernest replied, straightening out his back. "You look like you're doin' well."

"Thanks, you too. I wasn't accepting such a welcome, and I wasn't accepting Dani either," the trainer added, his eyes peeling over in astonishment at the girl.

Dani was two years older than him, and while they were in the same age range he always found her to be more of an adult than an actual teenager. The only thing that made him feel older than her was that he was now taller. But intellectually that was another story altogether. Overall, Dani was a big sister in a sense, someone he could talk to when she and her mom came to visit, and while Gary and the other neighborhood boys were giving him grief for, well, just- everything.

But Dani never minded being a role model for him; actually, she quite liked helping others and took pride in carrying herself with both humility and respect. Her hair had grown out to shoulder length, the wavy lavender lockets she earned from Leah's side gracing around her face, but her smile and bubbly voice hadn't changed.

"Neither were we when she first came. But isn't it nice? Now I don't have to worry about fixin' a meal when your grandma's workin' late."

That was a blessing to all.

"Grandma called and told me you were here, so I started working away on dinner!" Dani exclaimed from the kitchen, leaning over the counter to get a glimpse of Ash.

Ash's eyes widened at her. "Whoa, you made dinner?" The teenager journeyed over quickly, witnessing the display of food Dani had prepared all on her own. Green beans with garlic, roasted potatoes and carrots, and even a whole roast! Granted, it was small, but it sure was a big step in Dani's attempt at cooking. Ash shot a wrinkled forehead while Pikachu sniffed the fragrant air in delight. "Since when do you know how to cook?"

"Since your mom showed me," she answered, now grabbing glasses from one of the top cabinets.

Ash's expression only furthered to dramatic levels. "You've been hanging out with Mom?"

"Only on occasion when I come to visit. Now you and Aunt Delia go ahead and sit down," she commanded, more than wanting them to take a rest and for her to serve up her hard work. "I've got almost everything ready."

At the waving of her hand, Ash's eyes shifted to the table. Everything was set. Plates, napkins, silverware, and a subtle floral table cloth lying right underneath it all. Dani sure went to town to make everything look well presented.

Filling up a lined basket, Dani stretched her reach towards her grandfather. "Grandpa, would you do the honors of carrying the rolls in?"

Ernest smiled back humbly, playing along. "It would be my honor."

And it would be Ash's honor to take the first helping.

The teenager eye's glimmered as the rolls were settled near him and Delia's end of the table. If there was one thing Ash hadn't grown out of it was a vivacious appetite, and he proved so by snatching a serving of the homemade bread.

Ash tore a piece off and popped it into his mouth. "So how long have you've been here, Dani?"

Dani slipped a smile and roll of her eyes, knowing what caused his muffled words. "A couple of weeks. I was wrapping up with some courses in Viridian."

"What courses?"

Dani made a face. "Didn't your mom tell you?"

It was then that both teenagers swept their attention over to a dazed Delia. Feeling their eyes upon her, she broke out of her quiet train of thought, and shook her head. "Oh, I guess it slipped my mind! Honey, Dani's been training to be a Pokémon breeder."

"Really?" Ash raised his eyebrows. "That's amazing! But I thought you just wanted to be a trainer?"

"I did, but over this last year I started to realize that I enjoyed raising Pokémon more so than actually battling," Dani began to explain, handing both of them filled glasses of chilled water. "I mean, I'm a decent battler, but I felt as if taking care of Pokémon and learning about them was more of my calling. You know it's like this- inner feeling you get. I don't know," she shrugged, struggling with her words. "It's hard to explain."

Even if it was difficult for Dani to relay her reasoning of switching up her career to others, Ash understood. Trial and error was a part of anything one did, and experimenting in the Pokémon field came with that possibility. He had known plenty of other trainers who changed their dream after coming to grips that they had a greater fondness for something else. Brock, being one that stood out in his head immediately. Though he himself never thought he'd ever steer away from battling. At least he thought so.

"No, I get it," Ash said honestly. "I'm happy for you. I think you'll do great as a breeder."

"Thanks. And I've heard you haven't been doing too bad yourself."

Her sly eye made him laugh a little. Delia must have been boasting about him again. Harmless as it was, and he admittedly liked the attention now and again, he did find it kind of embarrassing when Delia gushed over him. Then again, he was so used to it by now he did his best to overlook her innocent, motherly tendencies. After all, Ash was her "little boy."

Ash flushed his embarrassment away. "Oh yeah, actually I- Huh?!" Though he lost his train of thought promptly. Emerging from the back door near the kitchen appeared none other than Mr. Mime, holding a broom that looked like it just suffered from a few vigorous sweeps. Apparently, he was cleaning the back porch, but why on earth was he at Ash's grandparents' house? "Hold on!" the teenager shouted, gawking at the Pokémon in confusion. "W-what's Mr. Mime doing here?"

"I asked the same question."

All their gazes were focused on Ernest, who was glaring with great hostility at the mime dusting off his feet on the doormat. He never liked Mr. Mime, and he never would. No matter how genuinely helpful and friendly the creature was.

He was just plain- annoying.

"Oh Dad, stop!" Delia ordered sharply, flashing irritated chestnut eyes at him. Ernest simply in return just huffed and mumbled something incoherent to their ears, and Delia didn't see the point in starting a fruitless argument that was really over well- nothing.

So she drew her attention back to a still lost and inquisitive Ash. "You see, Ash, Grandma's been so busy at the inn that I offered Mimie to come over and pick up some of the slack around the house. Of course, she has to keep reminding Rex and Fly that he's not an intruder."

As dense as Ash could be at times, he didn't need to ponder over that one to know whose fault that was.

"I beg to differ," Ernest grumbled, carrying more of the finished dishes over to the table.

Ash blinked at his mother momentarily, processing the news. "Oh, that makes sense. But what about you, Mom? Don't you still need the help?"

There was a twinkle in Delia's eyes, and the rascally smile seeping from her lips only spelt bad news for him. There was a catch. "I already have that taken care of. Since Mr. Mime is helping Grandma, I thought a certain sixteen year old wouldn't mind picking up the slack around the house he lives in from time to time."

Ash already promised Delia he'd stay for a while when they were having lunch, and a couple of weeks was the compromise. But after being home for just a few hours and seeing all the changes, all the faces he missed- maybe he wanted to stay longer than just two weeks. However, the chores now made his stay very unappealing.

Just thinking about all the extra work Mr. Mime did around the house and outside in the yard…Man, was Ash going need to install his allowance again- or better yet, take that part-time job Greta had been offering for quite some time. That would do the trick.

Ash released a nervous grin as he stuffed his cheeks with another bite of a roll. "Uh- we'll see."

A/N:

And there you have chapter one folks! There should be no surprise how long my chapters can get, and just be ready that there are more of those lengths to come. As I have been with every other installment, I am committed to finishing this fanfic whether it takes a year or more. Unless of course serious issue arises- then I would let you all know. Though, I cannot promise you it will be updated as often as my works have in the past. More has been added to my plate, but I will try my best to get updates out to you all. :)

I promise the pace will pick up shortly, and that we will delve more into Ash's feelings on traveling again or staying home for a little while. ;) Plus, a whole slew of familiar faces are on their way! Just wait and see!

Thank you all for taking the time to read the first chapter and as always, reviews are very much appreciated. :)