Time Heals All Wounds, Right?

Something Always Happens

Ash POV
   Why is it that when we finally have some peace in our lives, some understanding. Something goes wrong. That's how I felt while we rushed Serena to the Pokemon Center.  Along the way I saw Bonnie, Clemont, and Calem walking on the sidewalk. The second they saw me, they didn't even ask questions. They just ran along with me. And now we're just sitting here waiting to hear any news.

"What happened Ash?." I looked up and saw Bonnie with tears in her eyes.

"Too much." I replied. I was too stressed to think of a real answer, much less give one.

"Pika?" I looked at my lap and my best friend also had a worried expression on his face.

"I know buddy, I know." I got up and I faced my friends.

"Ash what's wrong?" Clemont came up from behind her sister.

"Bonnie, Clemont… I'm sorry. For leaving all this time. All I have to say is that I'm proud of the people you have become. A brilliant inventor, a Pokemon Master…" They both stood there in shock as if they had just won the lottery.

"Ash… you remember?" Bonnie walked up to me and I could see something in her eyes, a burning passion that I felt like I lost a long time ago, hope.

"I'm sorry I couldn't sooner." I said as I opened up my arms. Immediately she tackled me into a hug and started to cry. Not just for me, but because of everything that had been happening. I let go and looked at Clemont. I offered a small smile and we shook hands.

"Calem." I turned around and saw him walking back in with some food in his hands.

"Ash." I walked over and offered my hand to him as well.

"Thank you, for taking care of her." He offered a small smile and shook my hand. A small sign that meant a large amount of respect.

"Hey Ash, I have to tell you…" I looked at Bonnie who was looking at the floor. "I'm sorry for becoming the first Pokemon Master. I know that was your dream. It was in my place to take that away from you…"

"Bonnie, I'm not mad or sad. I'm just proud that someone so young. Some who I consider my friend, did it because they believed In me. You believe in me right?"

"Of course, you inspired me Ash. And you always will. So let's have a battle." She said while first bumping the air.

"Just you wait Bonnie. It will be a show, right Pikachu?"

"Pika!"

"Where's Lucario?"

"Pika." He said while pointing outside.

"I'll be right back, you guys." I walked outside and I saw Lucario leaning against a tree.

"So, how are you doing?" He seemed in deep thought as he was started by my presence.

"Oh hey Ash."

"That feels nice, you calling me by name. Not master."

"It's like you said, I'm free. I'm not bound to anyone or anything and that gives me a sense of peace."

"Good to know, by the way, I know it's been some time since our last battle, what do you say to one more?"

"Is it against Bonnie?"

"It is, this one will be harder than the last."

"Maybe it will help answer our question."

"So you felt it too?"

"I did."

"Do you think we can really achieve a higher power?" I asked thinking about the bond we shared.

"Only one way to find out. Let's go." We made our way back to the Pokemon Center where Clemont had just finished talking to Nurse Joy.

"Hey Clemont, any news?"

"Yeah, she's going to be alright, it's just that. She hit her back during her fall and well there's a chance she won't be able to walk when she wakes up." I almost lost my balance and almost started to cry, but I didn't. I had to stay strong for her, Bonnie, Clemont, and most importantly myself.

"Hey Bonnie." I called to her who seemed to be trying to get herself together. "Let's go make her proud."

She smiled and we walked out back where there was a battlefield. We each took our respective sides and Clemont walked out to the middle.

"This will be a one on one battle. The winner will be desired when either side's Pokemon is unable to battle. Please send out your Pokemon."

"Dedenne."

"Lucario."

"Ok Bonnie, don't hold back. You ready?" I exclaimed.

"Of course." Nothing but determination shining in her eyes.

"Good." We stared at each other taking in the sense of the atmosphere. I closed my eyes waiting for her move. One thing that I've learned in my years as a trainer is that every battle you take part in will be harder the next. That was true for this one. Giovanni may have been strong, but she's stronger. I can sense it. Their bond is what makes her powerful. I opened my eyes and looked at Bonnie.  "So this is what Professor Oak meant. I figured it out."

"Dedenne."

"Lucario."

We both took stance and set off.

"LETS GO!"