ANNND Here we are! Time for more ghostly michief!

What will happen this time? Will the betrayers come back? Is more trouble brewing? And what happened to Charizard?

Well, let's find out!

Oh, and sorry that I took so long to update this story. You'll forgive me right?...Right? o_o

Anyways... ON WITH THE SHOW!

DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN POKEMON

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It had been a very quiet few weeks at the Tower since Oak's appearance. More trainers were showing up to battle, sure, but other than that, there was nothing to really report... Except for one event, but.. that will be explained in a second.

The reason for the influx of fighters was obvious. Word about the growing strength of the Tower's ghosts had spread far outside of Lavender. One rumor was that a possessed trainer haunts the place and gives the pokemon strength. Another rumor was that the ghosts had been blessed by Giratina himself. If they only knew..

The rumors only grew more in intensity and number once people found out that Professor Oak himself visited the infamous Tower.. and was promptly driven out. How? How was that possible? It was fairly common knowledge that not only was Professor Oak a world famous researcher, but he was also one of the world's top trainers back in the day. So what or who was strong enough to completely drive such a powerful and respected figure out of Lavender Tower?

As fast as the news and rumors spread, it was only a matter of time before they reached the wrong ears...

"Is everyone ready?" A shadowed figure said to the rest of his group, which consisted of at least ten other figures covered by the darkness.

"Ready here," another said, readying her supplies, "dark types ready?"

"Check!" a third figure stated as he also readied his equipment

"Scanners?"

"Check!"

"Anti-sleep gear?"

"Check!"

"Alright, we're ready. Now listen closely," the commander said, "there's supposed to be a large amount of ghost types, but rumors also say there is a trainer residing here now and training the ghosts. If you see this said trainer, radio it in. We want him or her for our own purposes," the man said with a smirk, which was shared by the rest of his team. And with a final check, they took off straight into the Tower front entrance...

One hour later..

..All was silent at the infamous Tower as the citizens of Lavender Town slept peacefully in blissful ignorance.

..until..

*BAM!*

*CRASH!*

*SWOOP!*

"What the FUCK!"

"BOOOOOOM!*

"This is the Commander! Retreat! RETREAT!"

"Too late.."

*ROOOOAAAAAARRR!*

"LOOK OUT!"

"WHAT IS THAT THING!"

*SCREEEEECH!*

*BZZzzzZZZT*

All communications went dead ...

The next thing anyone saw or heard was a black-clad man crashing through and falling from the top story window of Lavender Tower. The next sound heard was a sickening splat as he hit the ground, his bloody, broken body now lifeless.

He was soon followed by his nine other black-clad grunts, who tried in vain to escape the Tower's rage before they too were hurled from various windows and, in some cases, walls of the Tower. Their screams echoed through the night as they fell to the cold, heartless concrete.

Then... all was silent.

Of course, all of the commotion attracted attention, as various Lavender townspeople, including the resident Officer Jenny, rushed to the scene to see what the hell just happened. What they found was shocking..

Just outside of Lavender Tower, now littering the loose gravel and concrete that made up the road, were ten broken and bleeding bodies what appeared to be Team Rocket agents. None were moving, and only one or two appeared to be breathing, barely alive.

As the gathering crowd looked at all of the broken glass and debris that surrounded the dead and dying agents, many wondered how this happened? Or even what happened?

"Up there!" someone called out as they pointed to the top floor of the Tower's now broken window. As all eyes turned towards the sky, a couple small gasps were heard as everyone saw a young boy dressed in black, staring down at them all with purple, almost glowing eyes. He seemed to glare at the Rocket bodies, then at the crowd, before retreating back into the Tower.

Those eyes.. they were enough to send shivers down a grown man's spine...

..Was that the fabled 'Ghost Master' that all the visiting trainers challenged were supposedly defeated by?

After tonight's display.. none would doubt it..

... By the next morning, all would be shocked to see that the Tower's windows had been replaced, and walls miraculously mended...

..like last night never happened...

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Meanwhile, back in Pallet town, Misty, Brock and the Professor were having a meeting about a certain old acquaintance of theirs..

"Did you see new from yesterday?" The dark skinned trainer asked as he brought up the article in question on his tablet, titled "MYSTERIOUS MAYHEM IN LAVENDER: Rocket grunts found injured,dead outside of Lavender Tower."

While the Professor just nodded, Misty went completely wide eyed, "what the hell happened?!" she asked as she speed read through the article.

"Apparently, a Team Rocket raid gone bad," The Professor responded, "according to reports from witnesses and survivors, a unit of Rocket grunts were on a mission to capture the powerful ghost types that now reside in the Tower along with the so called 'Ghost Master.' However, as you can plainly see.." he pointed to the front page picture, "They were stopped.. by what one person said was a 'mysterious and deadly Pokemon' that completely dominated the Rockets before they had a chance to execute any plans. They were then expelled from the Tower's top floors down to the ground below."

"Woah..." Brock said as he read the article in full. Sure, he had heard about the incident, but didn't know the full story, "what were the casualties?"

Samuel hummed as he sipped his tea, "seven confirmed dead, three more critically injured. The only fortunate thing about this is that they were all Rocket members with lengthy criminal records. Still.." he said grimly, "if Ash and those ghosts are truly behind this.."

"Then there's no telling what else he's capable of," Brock finished for him, "he could probably wipe out that whole town if he wanted to!"

"We have to stop him then!" Misty added, "Before he gets any stronger! He's abusing his power already, there's no telling what he'll do next!"

That's when the front door swung open, "I'm back!" called a familiar, slightly nasally voice.

"We're in the sitting room, Gary!" The professor called to his grandson, who walked into the room a few moments later with a smile on his face.

Seeing said smile, the older man became slightly more cheerful, "I take it your visit to the League office was fruitful?"

At the question, the boy smirked, "Oh yeah. After showing them what you gave me, along with all of the other activity over there, they agreed to send over an Official in one week's time. Not too shabby, if I say so myself, "the auburn-haired boy said as he crossed his arms, showing all of the pride and arrogance he was known for.

Upon hearing this, the Professor's face broke into a wide smile as he nodded and stood up, "Excellent! In that case, why don't we take another trip to the Tower as well, so we can witness the League's work"

"Good idea!" Misty smiled brightly before it turned into a sad frown, "too bad Mrs. Ketchum won't be able to come.."

At the mention of Ash's mother, everyone adopted a frown onto their faces.. the woman had had a mental and emotional breakdown when she came home..

"That's probably for the best though.." The Professor assured them, "No telling what she would've done if she saw Ash again so soon. Besides, last time I talked with Spencer, he said that she was doing fine, and that Molly was serving as a perfect distraction."

"That makes sense," Brock said with a nod, "She gets to be a mother all over again.. like a redo, since her first child was a bit of a fail.."

"I still can't believe that Ash would do that to his own mother," Misty said angrily as her cheeks puffed out, "He might've completely destroyed her emotional well being!" she yelled, completely forgetting that it was the mother that had done that same thing to her son first.

"Let's not dwell on that right now," Gary interrupted, "we have a lot to do before leaving for Lavender Town, so let's not drag our feet!"

"Right!" everyone nodded in agreement as they headed to their rooms to pack.

In the meantime, Professor Oak had gone into his study to look over the numerous articles he had collected over the past several months, depicting the chain of events that led up to this upcoming event.

From the first article, which was a rough story of a Pokemon fight in the woods and the resulting death of an unnamed trainer's pokemon; to the most recent article which was read earlier that day. Now, it all led up to this..

"Soon..." the old man said with a heavy said, "Soon, the League will shut this whole situation down and we can clean up this stain that has been left on Pallet Town as well as give Lavender some peace.." he smiled. Soon, Ash would be dealt with and they could end this whole fiasco.

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By a week's end, the four traitors were once again in Lavender Town. This time, they were at the Pokemon Center waiting for the League representative to arrive. They had been waiting since eight that morning and it was almost one o clock, so they were getting anxious.

"what the hell is taking so long?!" Misty griped, holding on tighter to her aforementioned Togepi, who whined pitifully in response.

"Patience, Misty. They'll be along soon," The professor said in a calm, even tone as he sipped some tea. Though, internally, he was having similar thoughts, 'They should've been here by now..has the league gotten so lazy? Or perhaps they decided this isn't really worth their time..'

Just as those thoughts crossed his mind, the door two the center opened revealing two, very different figures.

The first one was a tall female figure in a black, skirted business suit. She had sharp green eyes that peered behind a pair of glasses, dark purple hair in a short bob style, and was holding an expensive looking briefcase.

The second figure, no one could make anything of, due to the black cloak he or she was wearing. The only other noticeable things about the figure was that he or she was shorter than the average adult, and carried a simple looking cane.

Seeing the little group of four, the two new arrivals walked over to them with, the woman with a smile on her face, "it's a pleasure to meet you, Professor Oak. My name is Lana, I am here to represent the League on the distressing matter that you're grandson alerted us to." she greeted as she held out her hand, which the Professor readily shook.

"The pleasure is all mine, Lana. I must say, I was pleased to hear that the League was willing to take this matter seriously," he said, then frowned, "I assure you, that your time won't be wasted. The boy that now resides in the Tower now is delusional as well as dangerous. And I have proof that he is practicing pokemon training without a valid license."

Lana just nodded, "that's what we're hearing, and that's what we're going to investigate," she said, before someone else unexpectedly took her hand. The investigator could only go wide as she saw a kneeling Brock in front of her, looking at her with hearts in his squinted eyes, "Perhaps after you investigate Ash, you and I can investigate the subject of love together!" the boy said overzealously, causing everyone around him to form massive sweatdrops on their heads..

Until Misty kindly saved everyone from further embarrassment by promptly grabbing one of Brock's ears and pulling him back, "maybe you and I should investigate where your brain disappeared to," he said with a irritated look on her face, ignoring Brock's cries of "not the ear!"

The rest of the group shared a slightly uneasy laugh before Lana gestured to the second, unidentified figure, "allow me to introduce our second representative, who insisted on joining me on this case. They wish to remain anonymous until the end of the investigation."

The hooded figure just nodded their head and grunted, giving no clue as to who he or she could be. Still, the cane made them all wonder.. Especially the professor, who could've sworn that he had seen that cane somewhere before..

"Anyways, shall we get going then?" the tall business woman said as she gestured outside, "and on the way, you can tell me more about our resident squatter, hmm?"

"Oh! Certainly!" the Professor said with a smile on his face as the group of six made their way towards the Tower, with the cloaked figure taking up the rear at a slightly slower pace than the others. The whole time they were walking, the figure wondered, 'Could he have made another child?'

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Within a matter of moments, the small group found themselves in front of the intimidating tower, which seemed to be forever shrouded in a veil of ominous fog.

"So tell me," Lana spoke, seemingly affected by the Tower's appearance, "where exactly did you encounter young Ash during your last visit here?"

"He was actually somewhere on the top floor of the tower, past the public memorial sites," Gary answered as a shiver passed through his spine, "it looked like he had made himself right at home up there.."

"really now..." the woman said as she looked up at the top floor, "well then, let's not delay this any longer, shall we?" she said before turning towards Gary and the others, "mind leading the way then? Since you know the place better.."

"R-right.. no problem, "the young Oak said hesitantly as he led the group inside. As he still vividly remembered his last two visits here to the Tower, it was understandable why he was a little less than thrilled to be coming back here a third, and hopefully last time.

Slowly, but surely, the group made their way up the eight flights of stairs that led to the top floor, where their 'old acquaintance' supposedly resided.

The place was just as dark and quiet as all of the other times. No signs of life were visible except for the howling winds that battered against the shutters. The dims lights were flickering and the shadows on the walls seem to be moving. All the more to make the setting as creepy as possible.

Eventually, they made to the deserted ninth floor, where the strange, glowing altar still resided. It hadn't changed since the last time they were there, but the creepy glow it gave off sent shivers up everyone's spine.

The sight of the ghostly altar brought mixed opinions..

"That thing still gives me the creeps.." Gary said as he looked at it, receiving nods of agreement from the other traitors.

Lana remained impassive towards the altar, while the cloaked figure looked at it in awe, 'it's glowing..I can't believe it's actually glowing..'

"I'm disappointed..." A new, mysterious, yet oh so familiar voice rang out within the memorial. Upon hearing it, a second set of shivers went up everyone's spine and through their bodies as they tried to find the source of the disembodied voice.

Then, from behind the spirit revered altar came the figure of a young male with long black hair tied back in a pony tail, and almost glowing purple eyes.

The boy chuckled as he came into full view of the small group, one hand gently resting on the edge of the memorial altar, "and here I thought the great Gary Oak would appreciate a piece of priceless art," he said with a smirk as he trailed a finger over the marble that made up the base of the altar.

Gary said nothing.. he couldn't ... he was frozen in place by his own body.. literally frozen in fear. He had seen Ash's power first hand, not once, but twice, and that was enough for a lifetime of nightmares. Now, here he was again, and for the life of him, he couldn't remember why he agreed to come back here.

"Which leads to my next question.." Ash said as a scowl formed on his face, "what the hell ARE you all doing here?"

Just as he asked that, a mysterious wind picked up in the room, making everyone involuntarily shiver and their hair sway.

"I believe my previous order to GET OUT and STAY OUT is still in effect!" the pale boy said in a voice that seemed to echo throughout the whole tower.

By this time, the traitors were shaking in fear of the boy in front of them, the boy that they previously thought they had broken down and left with nothing. Now it looked like he was going to break them... into teeny tiny little pieces.

Eventually though, Professor Oak regained his nerve and stepped forward from the group, "we're here to put a stop to this, Ash!" he yelled as he tried to force his authority over the young trainer, "your days of playing 'Ghost Master' and abusing the power of the resident ghost types here have come to an end! These two league officials are here to make sure of that!" he said as he gestured to Lana and the cloaked figure, neither of whom had moved since the young ghost trainer appeared.

Ashura looked them both over with a calculative eye..

The tall woman appeared to be one of at least some authority, as well as nerves of steel if the way she's acting is any indication. She was staring right back at him with the same calculative stare..

The figure in the cloak, however, was what really peaked his interest.

Their form was completely covered by the cloak, sans the cane, and gave no clues to their identity. Still, despite that, Ash couldn't help but notice that there was something different, a strong... familiar feeling about this person. They gave off an aura that he had only felt twice before.. from Giratina and himself. Only difference was that theirs felt.. much more powerful and experienced than his own. Who was this person?

After he finished looking them over, the boy just nodded his headed with an impassive expression, "pleasure to meet you both.." he said as he crossed his arms. He then glared at the others with a hateful stare, "and you're hoping that they'll just throw the League handbook at me, hmm? For what purpose? Is my very existence here disturbing you somehow?" he asked, before smirking, "Or maybe it's because, despite all you've done to me, I still came out on top, and that just irks you like nothing else."

The Professor merely growled in response, "Enough of this! I know that something illegal is going on here! You have no license to train pokemon, as I revoked that myself! And there is no way possible that you could've become so strong in a matter of months!"

"And that is why we are here," Lana said as she spoke for the first since Ashura's arrival, "to assure that no league rules are being violated, as well as to ensure the well being of the local ghost pokemon that live here," she explained as she opened up a tablet, "so, if you don't mind, I have a few questions."

Seeing that she was serious, Ash just chuckled and nodded, "ask away"

"Thank you," the woman said as she opened up a program on her tablet, "now, firstly, do you, or do you not, have a valid Pokemon Trainer's license?"

To answer her question, Ashura snapped his fingers, and in a flash of black sparks, a card appeared in his hand, "here you are. I do indeed have a valid license, though it is restricted so that I can only train and battle within the borders of Lavender Town," he explained as he presented it to her.

Upon taking and examining the license card, Lana found that it did indeed look legitimate. However, she didn't know who this 'Mr. Fuji' was, and she certainly never heard of a Nurse Joy co-signing a license.

"This license is... questionable at best," she responded before looking up at him, "and who is Mr. Fuji?"

"The caretaker of the Tower of course. Not to mention the town Patriarch," the boy answered in a matter-of-fact tone, "He and Nurse Joy took me in when I had nothing left, and helped me become the trainer you see today."

At his explanation, the purple haired woman let out a huff, "either way, I don't recall ever hearing this Mr. Fuji's name or seeing it on our League's list of certified Licensers"

"Exactly what I've been saying!"the white haired Professor interrupted loudly, "There is no way he is a legitimate Pokemon trainer!"

In response, Ashura just chuckled, "maybe you're looking in the wrong place. I did say it was restricted. And even then, the issue of a questionable license is not nearly big enough to draw the attention of the League. So tell me.." he smirked as he stepped forward, making the traitors unconsciously take a step back, "what other affairs do you have here?"

At his question, Lana smiled, "you're a smart one," she commented, ignoring Misty's snort in the background, "as a matter of fact, there are some other more pertinent issues that need to be discussed, such as the recent activity that has been going on here in the past 6 months or so." She then brought up another file on her tablet, "reports from trainers of a powerful ghost trainer at Lavender Tower. Several reports from Professor Oak himself and his grandson. Then, there is also the most recent incident involving some Team Rocket members, many of which ended up losing their lives," she stated as she brought up the article.

At each point she made, Ash nodded lightly, "I won't deny that I've kicked the asses of quite a few trainers during my stay here. I also won't deny that I was visited by Professor oak and his grandson on more than one occasion," he then put on an almost evil smirk, "and I sure as hell won't deny that I fucked those Rocket scumbags sideways and gave them what they deserved. Their fault for trespassing and trying to break up my family."

While the League reps merely looked impassive at his comments, the traitors glared at him angrily.

"That's disgusting!" Misty hollered

"Have you no sympathy for the lives you took?!" Brock growled

"And the number of Pokemon you put in the ICU?" Gary said as back up

"All the more reason why you should be kicked out of here!" The Professor finished, just as angry

"Enough.." a new voice called out, effectively silencing the traitors. After a moment of ominous quiet, the cloaked figure stepped forward towards Ash. The raven haired boy just looked down at the person in front of him, who seemed to be staring back.

Then, the person spoke, in an older, female voice, "I must say, you intrigue me young man, and not just because of the stories I hear," then, she seemed to smile, "I'd like to challenge you to a one-on-one battle, in which the results will determine your fate and if the League should interfere."

Lana, for the first time, showed some emotion in her face, that of shock and slight uncertainty, "ah.. Ma'am, are you sure?"

"certainly," the hooded female responded, before looking back to Ash, "how about this. You win, and the League will leave you be to do as you please. If you lose, your fate will be up to me," she then frowned, "refuse, and I'm afraid that the League will have to pursue this matter seriously, which could lead to you being thrown in jail"

"Why even give him a chance?!"

"Just throw him in there!"

"Hush!" Lana yelled, glaring at the traitors and effectively shutting them up

After staring at the cloaked figure for a moment, that feeling of familiarity and power came back to the boy's mind. Did he know this person? Should he know this person? Her aura was so much like his, with that almost dark, not evil, but definitely mischievous feel to it... but definitely stronger... what did all of this mean?

Still, back to the issue at hand, he felt it was best to go with the deal, "Very well, I accept your conditions" he then smiled and turned towards a shadowed door on the side of the room, "Please, follow me. I'll take you to my battlefield," he said before almost disappearing into the shadows.

With some obvious hesitation, the rest of the group followed, unsure and unaware what would await them in the more secret parts of the Tower. They were in Ashura's domain now, after all..

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Within a few minutes, the group was in the now familiar dining room/battlefield. It was, surprisingly or not, already set up. The room was clear, the lights were dimmed, and there was an ominous feel in the air. And Ash was in the middle of it, headed to the other end of the large room.

"Now then.." the ghost boy said with a smirk as a purple and black pokeball appeared in his hand, "shall we get started?" he asked as he addressed his mysterious opponent

"Yes, lets," the woman said as she also pulled out a Dusk Ball, then turned to her partner, "Lana, will you please referee?"

"Of course," the business woman said before heading to the left side of the middle of the field, "This will be a one-on-one match between Ashura and.. the challenger" she announced, careful not to give them woman's identity away, "No time limit. The battle will be over once one side faints or forfeits. Do both sides understand and agree to those rules?"

They both nodded silently

"Then, BEGIN!"

Simultaneously, both trainers released their pokemon, only to be surprised when they both released the same Pokemon... Gengar.

"Woah!" Misty, Brock, and Gary said at once in surprise

"Gengar.." Brock breathed out

"This is gonna be intense!" Gary commented as he watched the two ghost eye each other.

Without another word, the battle started..

"I'll let you have the first move, young one," The old woman offered

"why thank you, I'll be sure not to waste such an opportunity," the boy said with a dark chuckle as he mocked bowed to her, before calling out to his friend, "Gengar, let's start this with Shadow Punch! "

Within seconds, Ash's Shadow Pokemon had conjured up the purple colored energy in his hand before sending it forward with a fist that seemed to only hit air, releasing the fist shaped Projectile at his opponent.

'Not bad.. starting with an attack that cannot miss..' the woman said with a mental nod, 'still, it's a tactic that can be easily countered by most experienced trainers..' She then called out, "Gengar, your own Shadow Punch, please?"

The woman's ghost type seemed to smirk even wider than before, a truly unnerving sight, before it charged up and sent its own, larger fist of shadowy energy forward towards the enemy Gengar.

Both attacks passed each other, unhindered from hitting their intended targets.

"Gen!" the woman's ghost grunted as it slid backwards from the force of the attack, but managed to shake it off.

"GAR!" Ashura's pokemon yelled as it took a critical hit.

"Gengar! Are you alright?" Ash said worriedly. That was a serious hit!

However, like a champ, Gengar recovered and proceeded to float, only this time there was a noticeable scowl on his face instead of the regular smirk, "Gen! Gengar Gen GAR!" ("I'm fine! Bring on the PAIN!"

"Alright! Good Job hanging in there!" he said with a spark reminiscent of the passion he used to show as a trainer. He then returned to having that creepy smile on his face, "It seems as though we are definitely dealing with an opponent of higher caliber than normal. I believe it's time to step up our game!"

"Gengar!" his partner agreed as he surrounded himself his otherworldly dark energy. Time to get serious.

Seeing this, the cloaked woman smirked, "Interesting.." she then turned to her pokemon, "Let's show them a thing or two, Confuse Ray!"

"Dodge that! To the shadows!" Ash called to his pokemon as the cloaked figure's Gengar powered up its attack. The incoming Confuse Ray resembled more like several balls of yellow light rather than a ray. However, this led to the attack being more wide spread and harder to evade. Not a problem for Ash though.

Within seconds, Ash's Gengar melted into the shadows, successfully dodging the attack.

The woman humphed, "commendable... using such simple techniques to dodge my attack.."

"Is that a compliment or an insult?" Ash asked with a frown, making the woman smirk, "However you want to take it young one."

The raven haired boy just snorted, before a smirk formed on his face, "That's all well and good, madam, however.. during our little chat.." he said as he pointed to the battlefield, where her Gengar still stood.

Suddenly, a wave of darkness formed from below..

"At your feet!" the old woman yelled a second too late

"GAR!" Her Gengar yelled as it was ambushed from below with a second Shadow Punch uppercut.

"Keep the pressure! Use Dark Pulse!" Ash yelled, determined to take control of the battle.

Gengar smirked before forming a ball of pure darkness in his clawed hands, then sending the energy forward in a myriad of hoop-like projectiles.

Unable to dodge in time after recovering from that sneak attack, the woman's Gengar took a direct super effective hit, making it growl in pain as it was sent backwards.

The woman's response was as calm as ever, apparently not concerned that her pokemon took damage, "humph, not bad.." she said before turning to her pokemon, "Hypnosis.."

"Evade that!" Ash called out, knowing the implications of that move, "Toxic to block!"

Even though they both knew that Toxic would have no real effect on a Poison type like Gengar, it still served its purpose, spreading out to act as a shield, and blocking the light waves associated with the sleep inducing attack.

"Shadow Ball," the woman said calmly.

"Block it with Dark Pulse!" Ash shouted. He needed to get the upper hand in this battle or he was fucked!

The two attacks met in the middle, making the explosion of darkness and shadows in the middle of the field. When the darkened area cleared, both ghosts were gone!

The spectators were absolutely baffled as they looked around the field.. where were they..?

The battling trainers, however, just smirked

"Are you ready to take this to the next level?" The woman asked

"Yes, let's " Ash quickly responded

The cloaked woman nodded, then shouted, "Gengar, Hypnotic Punch!"

"Gengar, Icy Drain!" The pre-teen shouted at the same time.

In another flash of darkness and shadows, both ghost types met in the middle of the battlefield with a thunderous clash.

While the woman's Gengar leapt forward with shadow covered fists and glowing pink eyes, Ash's Gengar met hers with fists cloaked in ice and greenish shadowy tendrils floating around him, ready to strike out and steal his opponent's energy.

The ghost types began striking and parrying each other with incredible force, trying their hardest to get a 1-up on eachother. With every punch the woman's Gengar threw, Ash's would deflect and attack, only for the other to either dodge or counter. The only thing that kept him from falling asleep from the Hypnotic waves the other gave off were the sporadic pulses of stolen energy he received from Giga Drain.

Each side continuously took heavy blows, and to most, the exchange looked essentially even, until...

"Gengar! Enough fooling around! Turn up the power! This one deserves your best!" the woman said with an obvious smirk.

"Huh?!" Ash asked with wide eyes.. did she just say..

In a flare of incredible and scary power, the woman's Gengar broke off the exchange and smirked. Despite its bruised appearance, it essentially looked fine, and ok to go another ten rounds. It was barely even breathing hard! Ash's, on the other hand, has definitely seen better days. Despite the beneficial energy he managed to steal, he was still spent from the exchange and his eyes were half-lidded. Maybe enough hypnotic waves made it through after all..

Soon, the cloaked figure's Gengar was surrounded by a dark, ominous aura as it cackled almost evilly.

"Now, Gengar.. Egg move and make it nap!" the woman called out

IF possible, her Gengar's smirk only got bigger as it flash forward with incredible speed before stopping and shouting right in Ashura's Gengar's face, making it fall back and flinch from surprise.

"Gengar!" Ash called out worriedly, feeling that this was only the beginning.

"Hypnosis!" she yelled, as Gengar's eyes instantly took on that now familiar pink hue. Unable to look away in time, the Tower Gengar's eyes slowly started to droop, before falling to the ground, asleep completely.

"Shit!" Ash yelled as he saw his partner and friend fall asleep. He could only imagine what move might come next... Please, please, don't let that thing know..

"Now, finish this with Dream eater!"

'Damnit...' the boy thought to himself with a grumble as he glared at the offending ghost. With his Gengar still sleep, there was no way he could defend himself from the super effective attack.

He could only watch as the woman's Gengar sent out its own shadow to attack his sleeping friend, who grumbled and yelled in pain before going completely still, knocked out.

"Ashura's Gengar is unable to battle! League's Gengar wins!" Lana called out, ending the match

"Yeah!" Yes!" "Put him in his place!" the traitors called out with glee. They had won! And now the League would decide Ash's fate.

Ash, however, didn't hear any of this. His first priority was checking on his Pokemon.

"Gengar!" the boy yelled as he virtually teleported over to him, gently shaking him, "say something, buddy.. are you ok?"

At first there was no response.. but then, the evolved ghost type let out a pained grumble, "Gen... gar.." ("That... hurt...")

Hearing this, Ash could only smile sadly, "it's alright buddy... you did your best.." he said softly as he began slowly giving Gengar some of his energy.. he couldn't give too much of it, but whatever he could spare..

It was then that a shadow fell over the two. Looking up, Ash saw it was his opponent, the cloaked woman. At first, he thought she would shocked at seeing him actually giving his Pokemon some of his energy. But surprisingly, she just smiled and knelt down next to him, "allow me to assist.." she said as she placed a hand on Gengar, which glowed with a similar energy that Ash had, making the boy go wide eyed, "No way..."

Within a few seconds, her hand stopped glowing, and Gengar slowly but surely woke up, "Gen?"

"Gengar!" Ash said happily as he hugged his ghost, almost like a child would hug a giant teddy bear, "I'm so glad you're ok!"

The scene made the woman smile, until she heard a cough behind her, only to see Lana and the rest of the boy's former friends.

"I'm sorry to interrupt ma'am, but we have some issues to attend to.. per the deal made before the fight, if you were to win, the fate of Mr. Ketchum's license would be in your hands."

"Ah yes.." the woman said as she stood up, "about that.."

During this moment, the others went over to Ash, who merely glared back

Gary was the first to speak with an arrogant smirk, "well well.. look guys, it's the dethroned King of ghosts. Royally owned by his own type specialty. Arceus, you're pathetic."

The others chuckled in response, before Misty spoke next, "Yea, loser! This just proves what we've been saying all along. You're weak!"

"Time to face facts young man," The professor said as he crossed his arms and nodded in agreement

Brock smirked, "can't even beat an old lady, how pitiful.."

Ash looked ready to kill all four of them, as a deadly aura started to surrounded, before the woman turned towards them and huffed, "how disgusting... you should never kick someone when they are down.." he said as she approached them all, "besides.." she said as she finally removed her cloak's hood, "it's not like he was beaten by just any old lady.."

Everyone in the room, with the exception of Lana, let out a gasp..

"Lady Agatha.." Ash breathed out as he stood up and bowed respectfully. In his mind, he couldn't believe it.. he had battled an Elite Four member.. and held his own! And not just any Elite Four, the Queen of Spirits herself. One of the handful of living souls in this world that could command a ghost type without question! Even the unruliest of them showed her respect. And from the power she had shown him, she was also possibly one of Giratina's Chosen children.. like him!

"Samuel, you ought to be ashamed of yourself!" Agatha berated sternly, "ganging up on a poor boy that holds so much promise, and ripping everything away from him. And for what? To save your precious pride?!"

"B-But you don't understand, Aggie.."

"Don't call me that.."

"Agatha.." the older man corrected, "This boy was and is still an embarrassment to all of Pallet Town! His loss at the League was abysmal! If he had been more competent trained that Charizard correctly, then it-"

"Oh shut up!' the woman snapped, "Everyone runs into a problem pokemon that they just can't tame, at least not right away." She then smirked, "I happen to remember a certain Dragonite that gave you quite the many hardships, eh Samuel?"

At the mention of that pokemon, all of the color left the Professor's face, "that.. that's different! I didn't use it in a League match!"

"But you did try to use it against a champion, didn't you? Because you were desperate, "Agatha then smirk, "and if I remember correctly, you lost quite miserably in that match. Dragonite wouldn't lift a finger.."

At this new revelation, the rest of the traitors looked at the Professor with looks of shock

"G-Grandpa, is that true?" "No way.." "You're way too strong.."

"D-Don't listen to anything she says.. she's just.." he didn't finish that sentence as Agatha glared up at him.

"And now.. when history threatens to repeat itself, and one of your budding trainers starts to grow a weed, you handle it in the most despicable way I've ever heard!" she said with a glare, "instead of nurturing that bud to someday blossom, you just try to kill it along with its roots!" She shook her head at him, "How low can you go?"

By this time, Ash had returned Gengar to his Pokeball to rest and had joined Lady Agatha by her side, glaring at the Professor, "I think I asked this before.. but to make sure I'll asked again..." he said as he eyes started to flare," Why...?"

At the boy's question, Oak stuttered, "Be..Because! I didn't want Pallet Town to have a bigger stain on it than it already had! On the first day of everyone's journey, I explained the importance of bringing pride back to Pallet Town, and that failure was not an option!" he explained, before glaring at the ghostly youth, "Then again, you were late that morning and missed my speech.. another sign of your impending failure and-"

"Enough!" Agatha shouted, "You've said enough.." She then huffed and turned back to Ash, "As for you. .."

The boy visibly tensed as the Elite member turned her eyes towards him.

"This temporary License you have.. " she said as she held it up, "will hereby be permanently suspended."

"YES!" the Professor whispered

"And.." she smiled, "You will be issued a brand new, unrestricted License as soon as we return to the Plateau."

"WHAT?!" The traitors yelled in surprised

Agatha chuckled, "the boy holds a lot of promise. He clawed his way back from a broken state and has already made a name for himself in this little tower. And.. maybe it's just intuition.." she said as she gave the boy a small wink, "but I feel a connection to the boy. I believe, with the right training, he could take my place in the Elite Four one day."

At her statement, Ash went wide eyed, "Really? You think I'm elite four material?"

"Of course!" the elder woman said, "now, don't start being modest now. You've certainly made a name for yourself as a strong and competent ghost type trainer. it's only inevitable that you become strong enough to be Elite level. However, with my help, you can get there much faster and more efficient."

At her offer, Ash smiled. It was the first genuine true smile he had experienced since Pikachu's resurrection. Sure, he was happy with his ghosts, but he was also restricted. Chained down to the confines of the Tower by his limited license and Oak's interference. Now, those restrictions were gone and the chains were cut. Hell yeah!

"Miss Agatha, I humbly accept your offer, and promise not to let you down," he said with a smile and a bow. At his action, the Elite nodded, "excellent."

"Now wait a minute!" Oak growled as he angrily stepped forward, "Agatha, this is-"

"I suggest you keep your mouth closed, Samuel.." she said as she turned to him with an icy glare, "at this point ,by the time I return to the Plateau, you'll be lucky to still be considered the Regional Professor."

This made Oak and the traitors stop cold. She was going to have Professor Oak removed? Could she even do that?

"And that goes for the rest of you," She said as she turned towards Brock and Misty, "I'm sure there are more competent trainers out there that would serve as better rock and water type gym leaders."

"W-what?!" Misty screeched, "But.. but you can't do that!"

"Our families and livelihoods depends on our gyms!" Brock countered as she balled his fists.

In response, Agatha just humphed, "maybe you should've thought of them before you blatantly attacked a near defenseless trainer and his pokemon. An attack that resulted in the death of said pokemon!"

Misty and Brock backed away, shocked. How the fuck did she know that?!

"I-it wasn't me!" Misty yelled before pointing an accusatory finger at Brock, "It was his Onix that dealt the death blow!"

"HEY!" Brock yelled at the orange haired teen. How dare she throw him under the bus?!

"ENOUGH!" Lana yelled before typing a few more noted in her tablet then closing it, "I suggest you all leave in a quiet, quickened manner before you agitate me or Lady Agatha any further," she commanded sternly, "The League will be in touch with all of you about the results of today's events."

That said, the traitors quietly and begrudgingly left the Tower, feeling utterly defeated. Their plan had backfired in the biggest way possible. Now the League was investigating them and not their former friend. And it may cost them everything..

Still, some questions were left unanswered...

How the hell did Agatha know about what happened that night? She mentioned things that were purposefully kept out of the papers! And how the hell did Ash get so strong so quickly? And most importantly...

How would things have turned out if they had stuck with Ash instead of turning on him. Would they have been happier, getting stronger together and going on even grander adventures? Or would the boy had led them into the abyss of despair and disaster?

Cause right now, it appeared as though the former was correct..

/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/

"Well, young lad?" Agatha addressed her new student as he finished packing the few things he owned, "Are you ready to go?"

"Just about.." he said as he double checked everything. Clothes, food, potions, Journal, miscellaneous items, and lastly, his five Pokeballs on his belt

..yes, five..

Upon seeing the pokeballs, Agatha frowned slightly in a perplex and curious stare, "If you don't mind me asking, what other pokemon so you have with you?"

"Well.." he started as he counted them, "These three are that of the same evolution line: Ghastly, Haunter, and Gengar. These two.." he chuckled, "are special."

"Special?"

Ash hummed and nodded, "They are the only two pokemon of my original team, though in different forms now to satisfy my specialty."

"Oh really now.." she said with a smirk, "Special 'blessings from our mutual friend I presume?"

"Yup!" the boy returned the smirk as he removed the balls from his belt, "This one was once Pikachu, but now.." he said as he opened the ball, and a happy, though slightly irate Rotom popped out, immediately glaring at Ash.

"What have I told you about keeping me in those goddamn pokeballs for too long?!"

In response, Ash just blinked and gave the ghost a deadpanned look, "it's only been ten minutes.."

Rotom just huffed, "Five minutes too long! I don't even know why I had to be in there!"

"Because it's easier for travel," Ash responded before giving the electric type a slight glare, "and because you tend to wander and get yourself into trouble! Possessing every appliance you see.."

"ITS FUN!"

Agatha couldn't help but chuckle as the two continued to go back and forth about how much trouble the young Rotom could be. Those two definitely had a strong bond. Stronger than death. The argument went on for another minute before she cleared her throat loudly to get their attention.

"Sorry to interrupt, but I believe there is still one more Pokemon unaccounted for, "she said as she pointed to the last ball in Ashura's hand.

"oh, this guy?" Ash smirked as he held the ball in front of him, "This guy, you gotta see to believe.. he used to be my disobedient Charizard, but after an incident between him and Professor Oak, he came back to me, willing to listen and be a part of the family. And believe me, he's nothing like you've ever seen before.." Then, without further delay, he threw the ball into the air, releasing the Pokemon inside.

Almost immediately, the room was lit alive with a bluish-purple light that seemed to suck in and devoir all other sources of light within the room. At the same time, a teeth-chattering roar was heard throughout the Tower.

"RRROOOOOOAAAAARRR!"

Agatha could only look on wide eyed while Ash just smirked. All the while, as she looked at the pokemon in front of her, all she could think to say was, "What beast has Giratina created this time?"

/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/-/

AAAAANNNNNDD DONE! FINALLY!

Sheesh, this took much longer than it should've. I had to MAKE time.. add an extra hour to the day, give up sleep..

But it was worth it! Totally worth it! I really liked how this chapter turned out.

But I'm not perfect, I know I'm not. If you see any contradictions or issues that just make you say.. 'wtf? that's not right.,' then let me know!

Flames will be eaten by my Chandelure-Ex