Every time they met it was always the same. He was his usual polite, cheerful self and she would criticize his choice of research over battling.

"You used to have a spark, Oak," she spat. "What happened to you?"

"Times change, and so do people," he said sagely. "You've changed too, even if you don't want to admit it." Her glare darkened.

"See, now your mind's going! I haven't changed a bit and you know it!"

"We used to be rivals, Agatha," Oak said, "but somewhere along the line, we became comrades. Partners, working towards the same goal...friends, even."

Perhaps more, Agatha thought bitterly. If his silly research hadn't taken him back to Pallet Town... "Crazy," she murmured.

He sighed, taking her hands in his own, and while she gave him a disgusted look she didn't flinch away.

"I know your dream was for us to be a part of the Elite Four together, and I'm sorry it never happened," he said.

"What are you talking about? You never wanted to be part of the Elite Four and I never wanted you to. Like I said, crazy," she grumbled.

"Maybe I didn't, but admit it. Part of you did."

She sighed, her face suddenly becoming soft and her eyes distant.

"Perhaps," she said, "it may have crossed my mind once. But only once, and never more!"

Oak smiled.

"Forget what I said earlier," he laughed, "you haven't changed a bit, Agatha. And I hope you never do."