Pokemon & Splatoon: The Crossover Series

Chapter 3: A Conversation of Reality

(Vermilion Docks, Kanto Region)

Outside Vermilion City's Institute of Technology and Industry was a dock where Cynthia and Steven's creation of a ship, the S.S. Harland floated in the waters. Ash was about to go with them and Gary on a mission to uncover the mysteries of the Great Storm Barrier.

"All right, is everyone ready to set sail!" Called out Cynthia.

"Yeah!" Yelled Ash.

"Yes, ma'am." Gary answered in a calmer tone.

Soon, the S.S. Harland was moving and started diving in the waters. Ash looked out the window and saw the crowd from the institute waving and shouting good luck to the gang. Soon, there were so far and deep at sea that land was not visible.

In the storage deck, Team Rocket has snuck on board and were hiding in a cargo box discussing their scheme.

"We're going to a lost land." Said Jessie.

"We might find treasure." Said James.

"Or even newly discovered Pokemon." Said Meowth.

"He he he." All three of them said before Wobbuffet appeared from behind them.

Back in the higher deck, Ash was excited for the adventure he and Pikachu were about to have.

"Wow, I can't believe we're going to be the first to head to an uncharted region." Ash said in excitement.

"Don't get too excited, for this mission will likely be dangerous." Said Gary.

"I mean, me and Pikachu faced danger before many times." Ash replied. "Heck, we've stopped the Darkest Day in the Galar Region a year ago!"

"Then you should know the world is not always about fun." Soon, Gary walked away to his dorm on the floor below.

Ash just stood there standing, Gary had always told him a lot of things that made Ash question himself. But what Gary told him in Galar a year ago was something he couldn't get off his mind.

"Has becoming champion brought you any closer to being a Pokemon Master?" Gary's echoed in his head.

That question kept repeating in his head over and over again, and he could never find an answer to that question. That's why he hasn't been to another region to compete in another league. First, he participated in the island challenge and became the first champion of Alola. Then, he competed in the Galar League and became the new Galar champion, but all though he relinquished his title there, he still did a great achievement and proved himself as a champion. So is becoming a champion all he could do? Is he a Pokemon Master? Is there nothing left to do for his journey? Soon, a new question popped up in his head. What exactly does it mean to be a Pokemon Master?

He stood there for a while, just thinking. Soon, he became lost with many questions spiraling in his head. Like, what now? Should he continue his journey like he's always has? Did he reach his goal? Is his journey over?

Pikachu looked at him, feeling that something was definitely troubling him.

"Hey Ash, what are you doing in the halls just standing there?" Cynthia asked, who just came in behind him and had seen him just standing there, looking completely lost in his thoughts.

"Oh, hi Cynthia..." Said Ash in a quiet tone. This surprised Cynthia because she's always used to seeing him in a more exciting mood.

"Ash? Is there something bothering you?" Asked Cynthia.

Ash took a deep breath, then let's Cynthia know of his troubles. "Cynthia, has becoming the Sinnoh Region champion mean that you've reached your limit? Is there anything left for you to do in life?"