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

IV Utau's P.O.V

I found myself filled with a deep sense of admiration and pride as I observed the transformation Ash underwent during his time of healing. It was my responsibility to oversee the aftermath of Team Flare's actions in Kalos while Ash focused on recuperation, and I couldn't help but be struck by how much lighter and happier he appeared upon his return. As I delivered my report to him, recounting the progress we had made in dismantling Team Flare's operations, I couldn't help but notice the genuine smiles that graced his face more frequently. His eyes, once clouded with grief, now held a renewed spark of determination. It was evident that he had confronted his inner demons and emerged stronger than ever before.

My heart swelled with admiration for his resilience and the unwavering spirit that defined him as a Champion. Ash's ability to face adversity head-on, while still maintaining his compassion and empathy, was truly inspiring. I had seen him grow and evolve as a trainer, but witnessing his personal growth and the healing that took place within him was a testament to his inner strength. In his presence, I felt a sense of purpose and determination. The weight of my own responsibilities was made lighter, knowing that I had such an incredible leader to follow. Ash's unwavering commitment to justice and his unwavering belief in the power of friendship were contagious. It fueled my own determination to make a difference in the world.

As I shared the progress we had made in dismantling Team Flare's network, I saw his eyes light up with a mixture of pride and gratitude. It was a humbling experience to witness the impact he had on those around him, the way his unwavering spirit inspired others to join the cause. With Ash's renewed spirit and our shared determination, there was no obstacle we couldn't overcome. And together, we would continue to make a difference in the world, leaving a lasting impact fueled by the unwavering bonds of friendship and the indomitable spirit of a true Champion.

"Ash, I have some important news to share with you," I continued, now focusing on my job- giving Ash my report about Kalos. "Malva, the former member of the Elite Four and an integral part of Team Flare's operations, has finally been apprehended for treason. It seems her involvement with the nefarious group has caused quite an uproar in Kalos."

"So, that's finally done," Ash sighed, a relieved smile on his face. "I'm glad to hear that justice is being served. How did it happen?"

"It took a considerable effort from the combined forces of the Kalos authorities and our team," I explained. "We gathered substantial evidence against Malva, linking her to Team Flare's activities. The people of Kalos can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that one of the key figures responsible for the region's turmoil is behind bars.

"Excellent work like always, Utau," he praised me, making me preen. "Your leadership and the team's dedication are truly commendable. We're making a difference."

"Thank you, Ash. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in our success," I was quick to assure him. We couldn't have done any of this had it not been for Ash and his pokemon.

"On another note, I've heard that Champion Diantha is looking for a new member to join the Elite Four. Any thoughts on who it might be?" Ash inquired in curiosity.

"Yes, indeed. Champion Diantha has been considering Alain for the position. His remarkable work in countering Lysandre and Team Flare has caught her attention. Not to mention, he has proven himself to be a formidable trainer with a powerful team," I informed him.

"Alain?" Ash looked surprised, but delighted at the same time. "He's definitely strong, and his dedication to stopping Team Flare was admirable. Do you think he's ready for such a role in the Elite Four?"

"While Alain may not be at the level of a Champion just yet, his strength and commitment to justice cannot be denied," I answered slowly, after thinking it for a while. "I believe he has the potential to excel within the Elite Four and perhaps even become Diantha's successor someday."

"That's a big responsibility," Ash's face clouded for a minute, recalling his own responsabilities as a Champion, before smiling again. "But if anyone can handle it, it's Alain. I've seen his determination firsthand. He has the drive to grow and protect Kalos."

"I agree, Ash. Alain's team, including Charizard, Metagross, Tyranitar, Weavile, Bisharp, Unfezant, Chesnaught, and Malamar, showcases his formidable skills," I was still impressed by this line-up. Not as impressive as Ash's, but still not a bad one for a young trainer like Alain. "With time and experience, he could become an extraordinary force within the Elite Four."

"What about Alain's companion Mairin?" Ash pointed out.

"Oh, she and Chespin have joined Professor Sycamore as Lab Assistants," I answered him with a soft smile. I could not help it, Mairin is such a sweet girl and she reminded me of my little sister a lot. "Alain visits them a lot, and has even started talking with Professor Sycamore about some private classes. He wants to learrn more about Mega Evolution, so he could master it and grow stronger."

"That is a passion I can understand," Ash chuckled. "Now, about Professor Sycamore's Lab... did they truly send that there?"

That referring to Team Flare's secret experiments.

After dismantling the organization, we uncovered their involvement with Zygarde Cores, which serve as the brains of the powerful Zygarde. A Zygarde Core is a small, green pokemon with a gelatinous body. They have a distinctive round head with a beak-shaped protrusion at the front and a thin, hook-shaped tail. Their body houses a red hexagon, suspended within it. The head contains a single eye with a black pupil, and beside it, there may be another white oval, possibly a second eye.

It appears that Team Flare was conducting experiments to harness the power of Zygarde Cores for their own nefarious purposes. These cores possess incredible abilities and serve as a crucial aspect of Zygarde's functioning. We suspect that Team Flare intended to use them as a means to gain control and dominance over Kalos. Which was quite concerning. If they had succeeded, the consequences could have been disastrous.

Now the main issue was, what we are doing now to ensure the safety of these Zygarde Cores.

"Yes, sir," I answered with a grim expression. "As ordered by Champion Diantha, we have taken the Zygarde Cores into protective custody and initiated an investigation. We have relocated them to Professor Sycamore's Labs, as he is the regional professor of Kalos and possesses the expertise to study and safeguard these valuable pokemon components." I felt conflicted on how to proceed, but took a deep breath and went for it. "Professor Sycamore's Labs is the perfect place for such delicate research... but it will put a huge target on his back if this is ever revealed."

"Well, we can't offer the Orange Archipelago or Area Zero in Paldea," Ash huffed wrily. "We already have secrets to keep safe. Dewott, Quilava, and Datrix have to stay in the islands because I cannot risk them evolving and revealing their husian heritage. Husian Zoroark can only leave and travel with me because of his illusion powers, and even then I am extra careful." Ash sighed. "But I can understand your worry. It's crucial that we stay vigilant. Our efforts to dismantle Team Flare were just the beginning. Now, we must protect Kalos from any remnants of their dangerous ambitions. Let's leave my Kalos Ghost Team in Kalos, have them stay in Lumiose City to protect Professor Sycamore's Labs and the Zygarde Cores."

"Absolutely, Ash!" I nodded, feeling quite relieved. Bringing it up with Ash was truly what I had to do. "We will work closely with Professor Sycamore and the authorities to ensure the safety of these Zygarde Cores and prevent any further harm. Oh, you won't believe what news I have about them!"

"What?" Ash was wary, making me chuckle.

"Bonnie found a Zygarde Core! She named them Squishy of all things!" I laughed at the memory, as Ash's eyes widened in stunned disbelief. "Relax, I already got them to Professor Sycamore's Lab."

"Good," Ash huffed. "The last we need is Bonnie with a Zygarde Core, they'll conquer the world with their combined cuteness!"

I laughed with him, before going back to work. As our conversation continued, we discussed the importance of uncovering the true purpose of the Zygarde Cores and the steps they would take to prevent any future exploitation. Our commitment to protecting the Kalos remained resolute, knowing that the region's stability relied on our unwavering dedication and cooperation with Professor Sycamore's research team was daunting, but at the end of the day quite worth it.