The beginning of a new road {Path of the Aura Ranger: Book II}

I Alain's P.O.V

Mairin and I sat together in the bustling cafeteria of the Pokemon Center, enjoying our lunch as the television mounted on the wall caught our attention. The news program began, and two reporters, a woman and a man, appeared on the screen, discussing the recent achievements of the upcoming Orange Archipelago Champion, Ash Ketchum.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have an incredible story for you today!" The woman exlcaimed with excitement. "The renowned trainer Ash Ketchum has once again made headlines by defeating the Kalos Champion, Diantha! And get this, his Mega Lucario managed to best Diantha's formidable Mega Gardevoir!"

"That's right! Ash Ketchum has proven time and again that he is a force to be reckoned with." The man continued with enthusiasm. "Not only is he a Generalist Master, showcasing his incredible knowledge across multiple pokemon types, but he is also currently working towards his third mastery as the Flying Master!"

Mairin turned to me, a mixture of surprise and admiration evident on her face. "Wow, Alain, did you hear that? Ash has defeated Diantha, the Kalos Champion! And now he's aiming to become a Flying Master as well! He just keeps reaching new heights."

I could only nod in agreement, as I could not take my eyes of the news. Ever since I found out about Ash Ketchum I've had a new objective in life, I did not only want to become stronger with Charizard, I wanted to beat him. My Charizard wants to beat Ash's Charizard, who is known as the second strongest Charizard in the world. Why I was not obsessed with Leon, who has the strongest Charizard in the world, I do not know. Maybe it is because Ash and I are of similar age, or maybe it is because Ash's Charizard has a Charizardite X like mine... or maybe it is because he had opened my eyes to the truth about Lysandre.

The reporters continued their discussion, highlighting Ash's role as an Ace Captain Ranger, using his skills to protect pokemon and combat criminals.

"Not only is Ash an exceptional trainer, but he continues to take on the role of an Ace Captain Ranger." The man commented impressed. "He has been actively involved in apprehending poachers and criminals, ensuring the safety of pokemon and the well-being of the people in various regions."

The woman nodded seriously. "That's right. Ash's dedication to pokemon and his sense of justice are truly commendable. He's making a significant impact not just as a trainer, but as a guardian of the pokemon world."

Guardian of the pokemon world... that suits him quite well, I was lost in thought. Well, he is The Saint after all. As the news segment concluded, I felt a renewed sense of determination and admiration for Ash Ketchum. I knew that my own journey through Kalos would be filled with challenges, but I was more determined than ever to grow and learn from Ash's example, just as he had done throughout his remarkable pokemon journey. I just hope mine will have less adventures than his, I cannot deal with facing Legendaries once, much less weekly!

Mairin and I finished eating, and prepared to head out to deal with our day's business. As we ventured through the foggy mountains in search of the ancient ruins, we were filled with a sense of anticipation. The discovery of the ancient tablet had piqued our curiosity about Mega Evolution, and we were eager to learn more.

That is, until Mairin stumbled and slipped down a hill, her cry echoing through the mountains, making my blood run cold.

But to our surprise, a hand reached out to help her up. It was Steven Stone, the Hoenn Champion.

"Careful there," Steven scolded her lightly, with a kind smile. "It seems the terrain can be treacherous. Are you both okay?"

Mairin, blushing and slightly flustered, thanked Steven for his assistance. My calming heartbeat piked again when I caught sight of the Mega Stickpin adorning Steven's jacket. This time from excitement.

"Steven Stone, the Champion of Hoenn," I started, earning his full attention. I realized at once that he was aware of my position as a spy. I did not know how to feel about it. "You battle against the ex-Champion was impressive."

"Well, I've gotten bored and wanted to earn back my crown," Steven smirked. "Wallace wanted to lay back and focus more on pokemon coordination and pokemon styling."

My competitive spirit flared up, I couldn't resist the urge to test my skills against the renowned Hoenn Champion. "Since we've met, Steven, how about a battle? A Mega Evolution battle!" Steven, always up for a challenge, accepted with a smile. He called forth his Shiny Metagross, and I released his trusty Charizard onto the field. "Charizard, it's time to show them the true power of Mega Evolution! Mega Evolve!"

Charizard transformed into the formidable Mega Charizard X, his power radiating on the battlefield. Steven's Metagross followed suit, becoming Mega Metagross. Mairin watched in awe as the intense battle unfolded before her eyes. Mega Charizard unleashed a powerful Flamethrower, but Steven's Mega Metagross used Psychic to redirect the attack skyward.

"Excellent control, Alain." Steven praised, making me smirk. "Now, let's see how you handle this. Mega Metagross, Flash Cannon!" The blast struck true, lowering Mega Charizard's endurance. Unfazed, Mega Charizard retaliated with a Dragon Claw, only to be met by a Meteor Mash from Mega Metagross. Despite the blow, Mega Charizard stood tall, ready to unleash his ultimate attack, as I commanded a devastating Blast Burn, aiming to secure victory. "Impressive resilience, Alain. But don't count us out just yet. Mega Metagross, endure it!"

Mega Metagross stood its ground, barely affected by the direct hit. Steven's confidence shone through his words. Before the final blow could be exchanged, a Pyroar appeared out of nowhere, interrupting the battle with a powerful Flamethrower. My heart skipped a beat, I know that Pyroar. The pokemon belonged to Lysandre, the businessman and owner of Lysandre Labs in Kalos... the hidden leader of Team Flare and the man I was suppose to spy from. Who I am spying.

I never thought I would become a spy, I thought exasperated. If I had just never found Lysandre that day, or at leats not have accepted the offer he had given me. What an idiot I was. I snapped back into attention, just as Lysandre revealed his interest in Mega Evolution and his desire to harness its energy for peaceful purposes. He approached Steven with a proposition for collaboration. Now that's not good.

"Steven, as the Champion of Hoenn and a geologist, your expertise would be invaluable in our research. Together, we can unlock the true potential of Mega Evolution for the betterment of the world."

"Lysandre, while your intentions may be noble," Steven began with a polite smile. Ha! Right! Noble my ass! "I have recently regained my position as Champion of Hoenn. I'm afraid I don't have the time to dedicate to such research right now." I could tell Lysandre was not happy with Steven's answer, but there was nothing he could do. Especially, against someone as strong as Steven Stone. As Steven passed me by he whispered. "Leave the mountains, what you are looking for is gone and destroyed."

It took all of me not to react and school my expression. With one last nod at Lysandre, I dragged Mairin away, not wanting her to spend one more second nearby that horrible man. Neither do I, if I am being honest. Lysandre is a dangerous man after all. I can't wait for Ash to deal with him for once and for all!