Hey everyone, wow it's been a while hasn't it. I'm sorry it's been so long I think somewhere in the ball park of around two months right? Whatever the time I'm still sorry. There's just so much to do lately with exams coming up and my first one is tomorrow so I hope all the hard work I've put in pays off. But I still wanted to get a chapter out before they started so here is chapter four.

Chapter Four: Out of the Fire and Into the Oven

The low lit stadium resonated with the muffled sounds of thousands of people angrily whispering to each other, all of them frightened and confused. There was an atmosphere of fear and uneasiness and the air crackled with animosity and for good reason. It had been three days since the now infamous attack on Saffron and yet the city still smouldered in some areas, carrying the stench of death and decay with them, a most unpleasant situation indeed. Since then, Hoennish assaults on Kanto had only increased, with wave after wave of Salamence fighters attacking all over the country, destroying many villages and farms. They had only attacked under the cover of darkness however, for reasons yet unknown to the Kantonian people. Nevertheless this made things even more difficult for the terrified citizens of Kanto for they could not see their attackers nor could they predict when or where the next strike would be. This practice of random nocturnal forays into civilian areas had stolen the lives of many innocent people and now the Kantonian populous was truly fed up. In the eyes of every patriotic Kantonian raged a fire of unimaginable intensity; one of pure hatred and contempt for those that had launched their cowardly assault on their homes and families. The time had come to strike back. And now here they were, gathered in the Saffron Sports Plaza to hear their leader's response to this most outrageous of attacks and hopefully achieve some sort of retribution after their tolerance of this most indecent method of warfare.

Suddenly the remaining light in the stadium dimmed, leaving only the stage to be illuminated by a single beam of yellow light. Almost at once the whispers ceased and there was complete and utter silence; every eye was glued to the podium.

From behind a curtain bearing the Kantonian insignia stepped out Giovanni, looking more determined than ever before. The people's eyes followed their leader as he slowly made his way to the podium, the anger practically radiating off him. For those in the front rows who could witness his expression, it was that of a man ready to kill. He stopped at the podium overlooking the packed stadium, seemingly to be drawing energy from the high emotions of his people. His malevolent gaze had ensnared all those present and not one person dared look away. Man, women or child, not one could divert their eyes from the figure that stood before them.

Then he opened his mouth and began to speak in a crisp, clear tone and when he did, his words reached every corner of the stadium, resonating in the hearts and minds of those who heard him.

'Three days ago, an attack was launched on Saffron'

'So be it'.

A few growls and curses were heard in the crowd but were quickly extinguished by Giovanni continuing his speech.

'It is truly beautiful to see our people at war and its total discipline. We realize this all the more in a time when Mr Stone is demonstrating to us the use of his invention: The nightly air raid. He does not do this because air raids at night are particularly effective but because his air force cannot penetrate Kantonian airspace during day! While our Kantonian pilots, our Kantonian pokémon, fly over Hoennish land by day, not one Hoennish pilot has managed to so much as cross the sea by daylight!

That is why they come at night and launch their attacks… you know it well, indiscriminately and on civilian residents, farms and villages… wherever they see a light, they launch on attack! I did not answer for three days because I was of the opinion that they would ultimately stop this nonsense. Mr Stone perceived this as a sign of our weakness! You will surely understand that we are now giving our answers night after night and this at an increasing rate!'

The people clapped vigorously, their cheers of adulation filling the stadium with their overwhelming sound so much so that it took Giovanni longer than he expected to placate the raucous crowd but eventually complete silence was achieved once more, albeit a tense one.

'The hour will come when one of us will break… and it will never be our glorious nation of Kanto!' he declared emphatically.

'NEVER! NEVER! NEVER!' chanted the crowd in a wild frenzy, their fists clenched in righteous anger. Giovanni was forced to wave them down once more but the result satisfied him nonetheless.

'And should the Hoennish Air Force launch 200 or 300 or 400 waves of fighters then we shall launch 500, 800, yes even 1000 waves of fighters in a single night! And should they declare they will greatly increase their attacks on our cities, then we will utterly erase their cities! The Hoennish are filled with curiosity. They keep asking: Why don't they come? Be patient. We are coming… WE ARE COMING!' he yelled passionately, his face a mask of fury.

For the third time that night the crowd roared with approval, yelling out insults towards the Hoennish and denouncing their spineless actions.

'We will put these night time pirates out of business, Arceus help us!' he yelled, finishing his speech. The people gave Giovanni a standing ovation, saluting him and restating their promise to defend their homeland come hell or high water. The noise in the stadium reached a crescendo; so loud was it, that it could be heard in the villages and towns adjacent to the great capital. In the houses of those citizens who could not be present, the clapping could be heard too, for Giovanni's voice echoed from every television and radio across the nation. Whatever reservations the people of Kanto had held before about going to war with Hoenn were long gone.

It was time to finish this once and for all!

In Kalos

Clemont and Bonnie burst into the house, carrying the groceries they had managed to buy before the curfew was enforced. The bags weren't very full because of the severe rationing being imposed on the occupied population but they were certainly enough to occupy both of Clemonts' arms. He placed the groceries on the table while Bonnie quickly slammed the door behind him. Serena, Ash and Grace, rushed into the room, afraid that something was amiss.

'Clemont, what happened?' asked Grace concernedly. Clemont wanted to answer but all that running had tired him out immensely. Bonnie rolled her eyes. 'Geez, big brother, you're so unfit! You really need to get in shape!' she exclaimed exasperatedly. Clemonts' face grew very red, whether from the running or from embarrassment, no one could tell.

'Take a deep breath Clemont' said Ash reassuringly. He patted the tired blond on the back, while Serena went and fetched him a glass of water from the kitchen. Clemont wheezed a few words of thanks and finished the glass in one gulp. When he was done, he took a deep breath and returned to normal.

'Thank guys, I needed that' he said slowly. Everyone apart from Bonnie smiled.

'Come on big bro, tell them the good news' she said impatiently. Everyone looked from Bonnie to Clemont, expecting to hear something monumentally important.

'You won't believe it…' began Clemont in a story like tone. Everyone leaned in closer to hear just what was so unbelievable.

'Saffron has been bombed by Hoenn!' revealed Clemont, a wide grin on his face. Everyone blinked rapidly in absolute astonishment, unsure if what they had just been told could possibly be true.

'Sorry, can you repeat that Clemont' asked Serena slowly, who was under the impression that her ears were deceiving her.

'I said… Saffron was bombed by Hoenn!' he shouted excitedly. The reactions around the room were… varied to say the least. Bonnie clapped in approval and Grace and Serena cheered in jubilation, hugging each other while they did. Ash on the other hand looked morbid. His mind was racing beyond control, making it hard for him to collect his thoughts and think straight.

Oh Arceus, not Saffron, but Red... surely he couldn't be…? And my father, oh Arceus forbid my father –

'Ash?' asked Serena concernedly, breaking him out of his terrifying fantasy and bringing him back into an even more harsh reality.

'Hmm?'

'Are you alright? You look as if you're going to be sick' she said placing her hand on his forehead. 'You're so cold!' What happened?'

By now everyone was staring at Ash, concern etched on their faces. Ash gulped and forced a smile to come to his face, whatever happened, he couldn't blow his cover.

''I'm f - fine, just a bit shocked' he said slowly. The others gave him sympathetic looks. 'I know Ash, it's a bit of shock but don't worry, we got' em good!' stated Clemont, blatantly misinterpreting Ash's reaction.

'Yeah, got em' good' repeated Ash quietly before shakily taking a seat on the couch. It was hard to imagine that less than a week ago he was happily at home in Kanto, the faces of smiling loved ones surrounding him and now… well now he was far away from everything he knew and loved and learning that his home was being attacked without him being able to do anything about it made him nauseous. What would his mother think? Was she among those whose lives had being stolen by Hoenn's aerial assaults? The thought made Ash's blood run cold and he slumped back further into the couch, overcome with anxiety.

How long could he go on without revealing that the very people that his new friends were cursing were in fact his own family? How long until they found out that he was not the man he proclaimed to be? Just how long until he would have to reveal his deceit and what would they think of him for it?

He had to admit, he had not expected liking this home or the people sharing it with him. He had been under the assumption that they would be lesser than him, of a lower class, like his father had described to him, but it was obvious now that this was not the case. These were good honest people, Clemont and Bonnie, Serena and Grace, even little Dedenne; all of them had earned a spot in his heart. The last thing he wanted to do was betray their trust.

He wondered to himself if what he was feeling at this moment was what they were all feeling when Kanto's army attacked Lumiose? Did they experience the same feelings of fear and loss? Of uncertainty and helplessness? In his heart he knew the answer was yes. There was no doubt in his mind that these people who he had discovered to share much in common with, would have felt the same way when their homes were being destroyed and if this is how his country was making other's feel then he was unsure of how much longer he could go on with supporting their actions.

Nothing make's sense anymore. I shouldn't feel sorry for these people, after all they started this whole thing… but then why can I not help but feel guilty for their misery?

He was so absorbed in his thoughts that he didn't even notice Serena taking a seat next to him. It was only when she cleared her throat that he was brought back to reality once again.

'Ash, are you sure you're alright? I'm no expert on health but I'm pretty sure that your face isn't supposed to be that green' she stated, commenting on Ash's face which by now was an undignifying shade of puce. Ash shook his head a bit to clear his mind and hopefully return to at least looking like someone who wasn't saddened by what everyone else considered to be a happy occasion.

Luckily for him, it worked and his face returned to its normal colour.

'There, that's better' said Serena comfortingly. 'Just think Ash, if Kanto continues to be bombed, this war may soon be at an end and we can all go back to living peacefully again' she said optimistically, imagining a world where Kalos was free once more.

'And once Kanto is defeated you can go home with your family!' she said happily, expecting Ash to be emboldened by the thought of returning 'home'.

'Yeah, absolutely… home' laughed Ash in a lacklustre manner. Serena gave Ash a sympathetic look and tentatively placed her hand on his in an attempt to comfort her new friend. All this did however was cause both parties to blush, forcing them to turn away from each other, each hoping that the other hadn't seen their embarrassing reaction to what should have been an innocent gesture.

Luckily the sound of Grace clearing her throat in front of them allowed them to avoid the awkward conversation that was sure to follow their little 'moment'. Grace stood in front of the embarrassed couple, giving them a highly suggestive stare.

'So sorry to interrupt this lovely scene but I thought you two would like to know that Clemont has managed to adjust our radio so it can… well I didn't really understand what he said to be honest, something about airwaves and frequencies but he's says it will help us so you two should just go and check it out while I start on dinner' she explained before traversing to the kitchen.

'So…' began Ash, scratching his head nervously

'So…' added Serena, her face still a light shade of pink.

'I guess we should go and see what this radio stuff is all about' said Ash attempting to calm his rapidly beating heart. Serena gulped nervously and managed a quick nod. They marched in silence to the living room where they could hear Clemont and Bonnie. Once there, they could see Clemont seated on the floor, a number of metallic instruments and other items surrounding him. In his hands was the radio which had all but been taken apart and was now being rapidly reconstructed by Clemont according to his new design plan. Next to him sat Bonnie, who along with Dedenne and Pikachu, were playing with the discarded tools and spare parts of the radio that Clemont had not bothered to use.

'Behold, the future is now thanks to science!' he yelled triumphantly. He held the completed radio in his hands, showing it off to his friends.

'It still looks like a normal radio to me' said Ash scratching his head in confusion at the sight of the radio which indeed looked unchanged from the original. Clemont turned to him with a wide grin on his face.

'Ah, I was expecting you to overlook my sheer genius' he said in a rather smug manner, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. Bonnie rolled her eyes reproachfully

'Hey Clemont, how about instead of acting like a big know it all, you actually explain to all of us what this thing does!'

Clemont sweatdropped causing Ash and Serena to laugh.

'Of course, every great scientist must explain his creation, if I may draw you attention to the back ladies and gentlemen' he said showing the back of the radio to the others.

Everyone looked closely at the radio, only to notice a small flashing electrical devise

'What is that?' asked Serena.

'Good question Serena, allow me to explain' said Clemont grandly. For the second time that day, Bonnie was forced to role her eyes at her brother's antics.

This ought to be good, she thought.

'Ahem, behold my friends, the device that will allow us to communicate with the outside world!' proclaimed Clemont. He looked around at his friends expecting to see expressions of joy and delight on their faces. Instead he was faced with three, no five counting Pikachu and Dedenne, extremely lacklustre expressions.

'Yeah… I still don't see how that little device is going to help us. Sorry Clemont' said Ash nervously.

'I agree with Ash, it just looks like a tiny button to me. What good could that do?' added Serena.

Clemont almost face – palmed himself for being so ignorant. Of course they didn't get it, he hadn't even shown them how it worked yet.

'If I may have your attention once more ladies and gentlemen!' he declared after a moment or two. He turned back to his friends holding another small device in his hand that looked more like a remote than anything else, complete with an antenna sticking out of the top.

'With this remote, we will be able to tune in to the Kalos Resistance Movement's channel and learn about what is happening across the rest of the country. Now hopefully, they would understand.

Serena and Bonnie squealed with happiness, maybe now they would get a clear picture of what was happening in the rest of occupied Kalos. Ash on the other hand remained still and silent. This is what he was sent here to do: Investigate and crush the local insurgents. But now he was facing a moral dilemma. He didn't want to betray his friends… but he also had a duty to his family and his country.

What should I do?

'Ash why aren't you celebrating? This is good – no great news!' exclaimed Clemont dancing with the others.

'Sorry Clemont, I guess my mind was elsewhere' responded Ash quickly. The last thing he needed right now was for his friends to become suspicious of him. He hastily joined the celebrating Kalosians, their collective cheering filling the room with happiness.

'What is going on in there?' called Grace from the kitchen.

'Mom, you won't believe it but Clemont found a way to listen in to the KRM's channel!' she exclaimed joyfully. Grace burst into the room faster than a bolt of lightning.

'Are you serious?' she asked with hopeful eyes.

'Indeed I am Ms Grace, with this remote I – WHOA!' cried Clemont as his explanation was cut short by Grace enveloping him in a massive usaring hug'

'Clemont you are brilliant!' she exclaimed squeezing him tightly.

'Thank – you – Ms – Grace' he managed to wheeze as her grip tightened. Everyone laughed at Clemonts' unusual predicament, Ash especially.

It must be like being squeezed by an Arbok he thought bemusedly. Grace finally released Clemont just as he was turning blue. Clemont gasped for air, taking in lungful after lungful.

'Sorry Clemont' said Grace apologetically.

'Don't… phew… worry about it' replied Clemont who had recovered his breath. Maybe Bonnie was right about getting in shape, living with the Yvonne's really tired you out so it was probably better to be fit enough to deal with such 'hazards' like Grace's usaring hugs then not.

'Hurry big brother, turn on the radio already, I want to know what's happened to dad' said Bonnie quietly, tugging Clemonts' arm. Clemont gave her a sympathetic look and nodded. Ash felt another pang of guilt punch him in the stomach.

So their father is missing… is this my fault too?

'Alright guys, listen closely to radio and tell me when I get the right frequency' he stated beginning to slowly turn the dial on his remote. Everyone leaned in closer, straining their ears to hear the welcome sound of others who like them wished to liberate Kalos. At first there was only the sound of static in the background.

'Anything yet?' asked Clemont continuing to twist the dial.

'Nothing yet. Keep trying Clemont' answered Ash quietly. Clemont continued to twist the dial further, tuning in to many frequencies, all of them dead. He tuned into the popular Lumiose City Press Radio Channel, where local and national news was broadcasted daily. Unfortunately that station was dead as well.

'Wait, stop Clemont I hear something!' squealed Bonnie excitedly. Clemont almost dropped the remote in surprise. Everyone leaned in even closer to confirm Bonnie's statement and were overcome with joy when a low voice could be heard on the other side of the radio.

'Turn the volume up Clemont' said Serena quickly. Clemont fumbled with the remote a bit before turning up the volume to such an extent that they could hear the speaker clearly but not so much that the guards outside would become suspicious.

'… and that concludes our status report on the number of Kantonian troops in Kalos' said a serious voice.

'So this is the Resistance movement' whispered Ash who found himself once again contemplating his mission to destroy this very organisation.

'And in further news, reports from our spies in Kanto have confirmed that Kantonian dictator Giovanni has finalised his plans for the invasion of Hoenn. The timing of the invasion remains unknown but the leader of the operation is confirmed to be the Titan of Fire himself, General Red'

Ash reeled in surprise at the news. He had no idea that his father had actually managed to plan an invasion of Hoenn. The news that Red was to be leading the campaign was no surprise however. Kanto would need its best generals to breach the impregnable island fortress that was Hoenn.

'Hey isn't that the nice man with the Charizard we met in Lumiose?' Bonnie asked Clemont.

'Yeah I think it was' answered Clemont remembering the kind General with the gleaming medal.

'You met him in Lumiose?' asked Ash, surprised that his older brother had bothered to go the Lumiose when the battle was already over.

'Yes, he was very nice and I loved his cute Charizard' said Bonnie fondly. Ash smiled. That was so Red, always the typical nice guy. 'Yeah he was actually alright for a Kantonian, I mean he was much better than that other guy' added Clemont. Ash narrowed his eyes, he thought he had an idea of who this 'other guy' was.

'What other guy?' he asked cautiously.

'Some red haired guy with a cape. Rides on a Dragonite' explained Clemont; the memory of the capered General's assault on Lumiose still haunted him. 'That's Dragonite's power was just… devastatingly powerful. I can't even describe the kind of damage that thing did' whispered Clemont. In his voice one could detect a mix of fear and awe for the sheer destructive power of the duo.

He must be talking about Lance, thought Ash to himself. He had always admired Lance for his style in battle. He wasn't one to needlessly destroy things so surely it couldn't be him that had done so much damage to Lumiose… right?

'I think you might be confused Clemont. It must have been somebody else' said Ash hoping with all his might that Clemont was indeed confused and it was in fact somebody else.

'I'm sorry Ash, but I really couldn't forget someone like that and now I remember his name too: Lance' said Clemont sounding out the name with extreme distaste. Everyone recollected the memory of red haired General on the television giving his victory speech. The unpleasant smugness in his voice still rang in their minds and caused a desire for vengeance to burn in their hearts.

Ash was extremely disappointed. He was thought to believe that Kantonian soldiers had more honour than that. Apparently he was wrong, even the best could be corrupted so it seemed.

'Shhh!' exclaimed Bonnie. Everyone looked over at the little girl who was still listening intently to the radio.

'Reconnaissance missions around Terminus Cave have confirmed that the Kantonian presence in the area is deliberate. They are searching for something but we are not sure what as of yet. Further investigation will be carried out to determine this…'

'I wonder what they're looking for' whispered Serena.

'I don't know but I don't like it. I've strange things about that cave. Whatever they're looking for, I'm certain it can't be good' added Grace sounding very concerned about the secretive activity of the occupying forces.

'And on a final note, we are calling once more for new recruits to join us in the liberation of Kalos. Our next gathering will be held in Santalune Forest tomorrow'

There was a pause before the voice continued.

'I am but a humble civilian but I call on the best Kalosians to uphold our ideals of honour and common sense to bring forth our hour of deliverance. That is the hour our enemy will finally realize the futility of their cause and I call upon all Kalosians who want to remain free to listen to my voice and follow me'

'Long live free Kalos in honour and independence!' thundered the voice before the radio went silent.

'Tomorrow' whispered Serena to herself more than anyone. Her eyes were glazed over in deep thought. She knew her mission. She had to get to Santalune Forest by tomorrow… and she knew just the man that could help her.

'Nothing about dad' commented Bonnie, her head dropped in sadness. Clemont went over to comfort her.

'I'm sure he's alright, our dad's a tough guy' said Clemont reassuringly. Everyone nodded in agreement.

A few hours later and the town had gone dark save for the few streetlights still casting their glow through the darkness. In the Yvonne household everyone slept peacefully. Everyone that is except for Serena who was more awake than ever. Around her lay items she thought she would need for the journey ahead; some clothes, a compass, her map and an assortment of other novelties she thought would be useful'. After packing she wrote a letter to her mother to tell her not to worry and that she would be back soon Arceus willing. She sighed deeply when signing the letter for she knew how worried her mother would be but she also knew she would understand that this was something Serena had to do for everyone's sake.

She carefully made her way down the hall to where Ash shared his room with Clemont and Bonnie, taking extra care not to wake her mother up. She slipped past the door and found the bed where Ash was snoozing comfortably.

'Ash wake up' she whispered shaking him slightly. Ash's eyes fumbled open and he found a serious looking Serena overlooking him.

'Sere –'

'Shhh!' she gasped putting her hand over his mouth to stop him from being too loud. She looked back to Clemont and Bonnie who were still sleeping contently and removed her hand off Ash's mouth.

'What are you doing?' asked Ash in hushed tones.

'I'm leaving Ash. I'm going to join the KRM' she answered determinedly.

'Serena you can't leave!' began Ash. 'It's too dangerous, think of what your mother would say' he added trying to reason with her although he felt like she had already made her mind up.

'I'm doing this for my mother Ash, for her and for all of us. I'm doing this to free Kalos and end this war. Don't you want to see your family again Ash?' she explained, worrying that her window of opportunity was closing. Ash knew he had really stepped in it now. There was no way he could give anything other than a positive response or else she would become suspicious.

'Of course I want that but I also don't want you to get hurt' he said before he could stop himself. They both froze for a moment and Ash could have sworn that even in the pale moonlight he could see a tint of pink on Serena's face.

'That's very… sweet of you Ash but I know what I have to do' she said quietly. Ash understood that there was no way he was going to talk her out of this.

'Alright Serena, but then why did you come to me?' he asked unsure of what part he played in her plan.

'I want you to come with me' she said suddenly, a little afraid that he might say no. Ash looked at her with a surprised expression.

'You want me to come with you? But why?'

'Well I thought you would want to help considering everyone you've been through and all. And besides we could… look out for each other you know' she said, feeling the heat return to her face. Ash smiled warmly.

'Of course I'll go with you Serena' he answered kindly. Serena beamed. 'You will? Thank you so much Ash. I know we will make a great team' she whispered excitedly, almost jumping up in excitement.

'I'll bet. Now what about Clemont and Bonnie, I think they'd want to help as well' said Ash motioning to the two sleeping blonds across the room.

'I'm sorry Ash but no. Clemont I would take but bringing Bonnie would be too dangerous. She's too young and it would be irresponsible of me to put her in harm's way'

Serena looked at over the little girl, curled up with Dedenne and Pikachu. Dedennes' tail tickled her nose slightly making her giggle in her sleep.

'She's such a sweet girl, I'm not putting her at risk' said Serena turning back to Ash. Ash nodded understandingly. She was right, he wanted as many people out of harm's way as possible, especially his new friends.

Ash was ready to go in less than five minutes without needing to pack anything because he came with nothing save for a small tracking beacon he was supposed to turn on in case of emergency but this he hid from Serena. He didn't want her asking awkward questions. Then with the stealth of a weavile the pair made their exit through a window in Serena's room to avoid the guards stationed at the front door. They both turned back one last time to look at the house. For Serena this was for her family and country. She knew her mother wouldn't blame her and she had already left the letter next to her mother's bedside table. For Ash this was an opportunity to do what he was sent here to do: Gather information on the KRM but also to look out for Serena.

'Bye mom' whispered Serena staring at her mother's window where in few short hours she would discover her precious daughter absent. She turned to Ash and nodded and the pair slipped away into the darkness towards Santalune Forest.

In Sinnoh

'Wait up!' cried Tracy who was sweating profusely from his forehead, a product of the long trek they had undertaken to reach Canalave City.

'Come on Tracy, you need to get in shape' laughed Gary from the top of the hill. Gary sat down on the cool grass to take a short break, a gentle breeze blowing around him. Beneath the young Kantonian lay the sprawling coastal city of Canalave, Sinnoh's information capital. Here they were sure to find the information they were instructed to gather for here one could access the great Canalave Library, a hub of learning containing works from all over the world. If there was anything that Sinnoh could be proud of, it was this.

What secrets lie in that library I wonder, thought Gary as he waited for his worn out friend.

The sounds of heavy footsteps and panting alerted Gary to Tracy's arrival. The exhausted cartographer collapsed to the ground in a rather undignified manner, groaning in relief.

'Thank Arceus! Geez, could this place be any harder to get too?!' he groaned.

'Shake it off Tracy, what matters is that we're here now' replied Gary. Tracy lifted his head in surprise only to find the city right beneath him.

'Wow, it's beautiful. I didn't know Sinnoh was capable of producing such beautiful cities' he said in awe.

'You'd be surprised Tracy, Sinnoh does in fact have many amazing cities, some I'd say are even better than those in Kanto' he explained with the slightest trace of irritation in his voice. The fact that Tracy could even say something like that annoyed Gary to no end. He knew of course why Tracy spoke that way. He was merely a product of his education and ever since Giovanni had come to power, there was less and less appreciation for the qualities and contributions that the other nations had made, almost to the point where no in Kanto could believe that anything of value had ever been produced outside of their own country.

He on the other hand, knew better than that. His research had taken him far and wide, across the globe where he had experienced many different cultures and ways of life. He could see past the propaganda that Giovanni would continuously spew out. He always felt that Giovanni had a problem with Sinnoh in particular but could never quite put his finger on the reason as to why.

'Not everything great comes from Kanto you know' he added dryly.

'I guess so' answered Tracy who still sounded unconvinced. Gary shook his head sadly, he could see that trying to convince his friend was a futile task, years of indoctrination had done their work and done it well.

'Come on then, we still have to find that library' he said beginning to walk down the hill. Tracy thought he heard a trace of sadness and maybe even disappointment in Gary's voice but he shook it off, he must have just misheard him. He picked himself off the ground and followed Gary down the hill towards the city, humming the Kantonian national anthem while he did.

Kanto, Kanto over all else

Over all else in the world…

'Knock it off Tracy' warned Gary who was already irritated with his friend's unbridled nationalism as it was.

'Why, there's nothing wrong with being proud of your country. Gosh Gary, the way you talk about it, it's as if you don't even like being from Kanto' stated Tracy accusingly. He just didn't understand Gary sometimes.

'Never mind' groaned Gary in defeat. He wasn't interested in getting into another confrontation with Tracy. The victorious cartographer smiled smugly in victory and continued to hum even louder this time around.

Once they entered the city they were assaulted by a variety of different sights and smells. Gary, having been to Sinnoh before was more used to it than Tracy but even he found the city a bit overwhelming. Around them the people of Canalave bustled to and fro, unconcerned that there were two strangers in their midst.

'Alright Tracy, the library should be just across this bridge' explained Gary pointing towards a large bridged that stretched over the harbour.

'And how do you know that?' asked Tracy

'I can literally see it right there' laughed Gary pointing towards a massive building on the other side of the bridge. The building was around three stories high, constructed of grey bricks with an ocean blue roof. Above the beautifully carved entrance were the words: Canalave Library – Understanding the Past to Improve the Future emblazoned in gold into the stone wall.

'Well… that was embarrassing' admitted Tracy, grinning sheepishly. Gary gave him a knowing look and smirked triumphantly.

The two Kantonians continued to cross the bridge, the cool sea breeze carrying them along effortlessly. Out on the bay were a multitude of ships, both commercial and leisurely dotting the horizon with an array of different colours to contrast with the crystalline blue of the sea. Anyone with eyes could see that it was the ocean that had shaped the people of this city and they were better off for it.

It wasn't long before they had reached the other side of the harbour as the canal they were crossing wasn't especially wide. They stood for a moment outside the library, admiring the architecture. What they had both failed to notice from the other side of the bridge however was a small statue of a pokémon that was unrecognisable to either of them.

'What kind of pokémon do think this is?' asked Tracy while he examined the golden stature. Gary squinted to read the plaque underneath the statue.

'Ux… Uxie the Knowledge Pokémon' read Gary aloud.

'Well that makes sense considering where we are' added Tracy. They both examined the statue a bit longer before Gary decided that it was time to leave the little golden pokémon and finish what they came here to do: Gather information about Sinnoh and its pokémon.

'Let's go Tracy, we still have a mission to complete' said Gary seriously. Tracy nodded in affirmation before they both entered through the blue glass doors of the library. The first thing they noticed when they entered the library was the sudden blast of chilled air that they could have sworn was produced by an ice type pokémon.

'Welcome to the Canalave Library, where we value knowledge above all else' said a cheerful voice next to them. Both of the boys recoiled in surprise at the unexpected voice. They turned to the source of the sound only to find a young bluenette smiling at them.

'Hi, my name is Dawn, it's a pleasure to welcome you to our library' she said while bowing. The boys looked at each other with strange expressions on their faces before quickly fixing their appearance to impress the young lady smiling at them expectantly. Tracy decided it would be best if he introduced them to Dawn for he knew Gary would most likely embarrass them in front of the girl.

'Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Tracy Sketchit and –'

'And I am Gary Oak, renowned pokémon expert. How yer' doing doll face?' he interjected smoothly. He delicately took Dawn's hand and bowed with over the top vigour. Dawn laughed softly at the exchange while Tracy face – palmed himself.

'Very well thank you' replied Dawn cheerfully. Gary was delighted that he had been received so well. Tracy on the other hand could hardly believe his eyes. Was she really falling for Gary's act?

'You two don't look very familiar, you must be from out of town' she concluded.

'Yep we're from… um….'

'We're from Snowpoint City' said Tracy quickly.

'Wow' exclaimed Dawn, her eyes alit with wonder. 'I've always wanted to visit Snowpoint City, I hear it's really beautiful up there'

'Well maybe I could show you around some time' said Gary giving her a highly suggestive look. Tracy rolled his eyes when Dawn reacted positively with a smile. He had been proven wrong, there were girls who could actually fall for Gary's showboating.

'Thanks, now is there something I can help you with' she offered kindly. This time Tracy interjected before Gary could 'work his magic'.

'Yes actually, we are looking for information on our nation's history. Oh and a map would be nice as well' he explained.

'But didn't you guys learn all about that in school?' she asked quizzically

Shoot, I should have figured this would come up sooner or later

'Well um, you see…'

'What he means is, we moved to Unova when we were very young but we came back because no matter how far we go our hearts will always come back home, here in Sinnoh' simpered Gary, putting as much emotion as he could into his little speech.

Well we're screwed thought Tracy. There's no way she could possibly –

'That is so sweet Gary, of course it's only natural to want to know more about your own history. Please follow me' said Dawn feeling very sympathetic towards the two strangers.

Gary strutted after her promptly, making sure to smirk at Tracy as he did.

Perhaps I don't give him enough credit thought Tracy with a smile.

A loud thud brought him back to reality as Gary who was too busy gloating, walked straight into a wooden column.

Never mind that then, he thought bemusedly striding past Gary with his nose in the air. Gary rubbed his injured head and opted to walk at the back of the group to nurse his even greater injured pride.

In Kanto

'Well done sir, that was an excellent speech' congratulated Lance. The sun was just beginning to set and once again, Lance found himself in Giovanni's office although this time without that nuisance Red breathing down his neck. Now was his best chance at getting what he wanted.

Giovanni turned to him with a drink, the slightest trace of a smile on his face.

'Thank you General, I did what I could' he said before taking a seat in his chair. Lance graciously accepted the drink, swirling its contents but did not take a sip. He needed to be alert and at full attention to make this work.

'Sir, there is something I wanted to discuss with you' said Lance tentatively. Giovanni nodded his approval allowing Lance to continue with his request.

'As you know sir, out invasion of Hoenn is set to take place in just a few short days and as wonderful for Kanto as this is, I have my reservations about the success of this mission… particularly concerning general Red's leadership'

Lance looked up to gauge Giovanni's response, deathly afraid that he might have crossed the line. Giovanni did not meet his gaze nor did he speak and for a painfully long time there was an undisturbed silence in the room. Lance nervously adjusted his collar giving him some breathing space.

He hasn't said anything, I knew this was a bad idea! I knew –

'What are you asking of me General?' whispered Giovanni, locking Lance in his steely gaze.

It took all of Lance's willpower to speak but eventually he was able to gather his nerves and address Giovanni in what he believed to be the most respectful way possible. He knew what he was risking by asking something so impertinent of his leader but he felt it was the right thing to do for Kanto.

'With the highest amount of respect sir, I am asking you to… task me with the leadership of the Hoenn campaign rather than General Red' he said slowly, allowing every word to sink it.

Giovanni turned as still as stone, his face an emotionless void. Lance groaned inwardly in frustration. Giovanni remained an unscrupulously unreadable person, you just couldn't tell what he was thinking and it was this aspect of his character that made him such an effective albeit intimidating leader.

Alright Lance your number is up, you –

'I have considered it' stated Giovanni quietly. Lance blinked his eyes in disbelief. Had he just heard what he thought he heard? Was Giovanni agreeing with him?

'I'm sorry sir, could you please repeat that'

'I said, I have considered it' he stated for the second time interlocking his fingers. Lance could hardly believe what he was hearing because it just seemed so implausible.

'I must admit that I have given it some thought General Lance. Let me be clear, I know my son is a brave warrior and his capability as a leader is unmatched. This cannot be denied but…'

'But what sir?'

'I am concerned that he is too sympathetic towards our enemies' he said with a sigh. 'His failure to take Lumiose proves that much. I need someone who is not afraid to take drastic measures to secure the victory and your performance at Lumiose leads me to believe that that person is you' he said, observing Lance's reaction cautiously.

The red haired General's face lit upon hearing Giovanni's praise filled remark. He was hoping that Giovanni would take notice of his outstanding performance at Lumiose and thankfully he didn't disappoint.

'I am honoured that you would consider me for this position sir' said Red bowing deeply in respect.

As far as Lance was concerned, Giovanni would make sure to take every precaution. Giving Lance too much power was not something he wished to do at all. He could see Lance's lust for power every time they're eyes locked. Giovanni was a master of reading people and the eyes were the first place he would look to judge a person's character and reflected in Lance's eyes he saw an insatiable lust for power, power that he could not possibly control. No indeed, he recognised that allocating Lance too much power would lead to disastrous consequences not just for himself but for Kanto as well.

'I warn you General, this is not a statement of affirmation by any means so do not take it as one'

Lance curtly nodded in response. He didn't care that his promotion wasn't confirmed. Just knowing that he had been considered was enough to thrill him. Finally someone had seen him as being on par with Red… or perhaps even better than him in some regard. The thought of being better than Red brought a sinister smile to his face. Winning Giovanni's favour was just the first step of a master plan that would hopefully culminate with his ascension to the most powerful man in the world. Then he would finally get the respect he deserved.

'I understand sir, I'm just happy you even considered me for this'

Giovanni could see the lust cloud Lance's eyes. Was he making the right decision? It was a risk but hopefully he could reign in Lance before things got out of hand. Hopefully.

'Very well then, if that is all General?'

'Yes sir that is all' answered Red leaving his untouched drink on the table. Lance saluted and left the room in a much better mood than when he arrived. Things were finally beginning to look up for him.

Giovanni's eyes followed Lance as he left the room, the apprehension building. Hopefully he knew what he was doing. And if he didn't well… he didn't really want to think about that at the moment.

Persian brushed his leg, purring softly to quell the inner turmoil it sensed within its master. Giovanni chuckled and scratched his faithful pokémon behind the ear. Persian licked its master's hand appreciatively before curling up next to his leg to take a nap.

'Ah Persian, it's hard sometimes… I know you would understand. Despite you being a pokémon I feel that you understand me better than anyone' he said softly, stroking Persian's fur while it slept. On his desk sat a picture of his family before he came to power. Everything seemed so much simpler then, there were no power hungry subordinates and no wars and he had more time to spend with his wife and sons. Now these were but mere memories of a time long gone.

He tenderly picked up the framed picture and smiled warmly at what it contained. The faces of his smiling family looked back up at him but perhaps what shocked him most was his own smiling face staring at him. He couldn't even remember the last time he smiled like that now that he thought of it.

'Maybe I should pay a visit to my dear wife in Pallet' he whispered to himself. 'And Ash of course, I can't forget about my brave man Ash' he chuckled. But he knew that would all have to wait until after Hoenn was conquered.

'Until then my dears' he said solemnly placing the picture back in its place.

'Until then'

The Battle of Kalos had ended… the Battle of Hoenn had begun!

Thanks for all of your supportive comments guys! I really appreciate it. Wish me luck in my exams and as always reviews are always welcome. Until next time!