"Congrats, Keldeo!" Ash shouted as he ran up to the Colt Pokémon.

The Colt Pokémon turned around and smiled, accepting the hug Ash gave as he came upon him. Behind him, Keldeo could hear the Swords of Justice chuckling at the scene. Looking up at himself, he noticed that his sword was still activated, so he unsummoned his Sacred Sword. Keldeo let out a sigh of relief as he noted that Ash didn't notice his action.

Keldeo closed his eyes as he sunk into Ash's embrace and began to reminisce the past day. He could remember his intense battle with Kyurem, which he sadly lost. To Keldeo along with Ash and his friends find themselves on top of a mountain. To where Keldeo was sworn in as a Sword of Justice, promising to protect the innocent. Only now that Keldeo recently became a Sword of Justice is where we are now.

Letting go, Ash stood up and commented, "Look at you now. A Sword of Justice, I knew you could do it."

Tears welled up between Keldeo's eyes from Ash's comment, before talking in return, "Thank you, Ash."

Keldeo backed off from Ash, then turned and regrouped with his peers. Looking back at Ash and could see him waving as he, Iris, and Cilan were making their way to a nearby city. He then frowned as the sight of Ash was no longer there.

"Come now, Keldeo"

Turning to the voice, Keldeo spotted the leader of the Sword of Justice, Cobalion, eying him with a neutral expression. His face softened as he noticed Keldeo's frown.

"Are you alright Keldeo?" he asked.

"Just fine," Keldeo mumbled.

Cobalion gave a nod and turned around and ushered everyone to head down of the mountain and head to the woods. With a sigh, Keldeo trotted down behind the group and would constantly look back, hoping that Ash would be behind him. When Ash wasn't there, he'd huffed and returned to the group.

'I miss you already, Ash.' Keldeo thought to himself.

Later that night

"All you alright Keldeo?"

Looking behind him, he mustered a smile as Virizion approached him, a concerned look on her face.

"Oh. It's nothing," Keldeo answered.

"Are you sure it's nothing?" a gruff voice called out.

Looking behind the Virizion, he could see the muscle of the group, Terrakion. He wanted to answer but Cobalion also arrived right next to Virizion; Terrakion next to Cobalion. They all had concerned expressions, and Keldeo knew they wanted the truth no matter what.

Knowing that he can't escape from them, he answered, "I just miss Ash, that's all."

"The Chosen One," Terrakion mumbled as he and the rest of the group looked at each other

This caught Keldeo's interest as he never expected them to react like this along with naming Ash 'The Chosen One'.

"Am I missing something?" Keldeo asked.

"No, it's just that we didn't know that you missed your human companion." Cobalion answered.

"Yes I do, but why did you call him 'Chosen One'." Keldeo elaborated.

With a sigh, Cobalion asked, "Which explanation do you want, the long version or the short version?"

"Short version please."

"A Chosen One, like Ash, deals with legendary Pokémon's business." Cobalion answered nonchalantly.

Keldeo's eyes widened, not expecting Ash to encounter more legendary Pokémon in the future of his journey. But it does explain why he didn't freak out with Kyurem or the others. 'But will that means that Ash will face more legendary Pokémon,' Keldeo thought to himself.

"But tell me Keldeo. Why do you miss him?" Virizion asked.

"Well, he helped me. I feel that I am in his debt and that I enjoyed being with him. His presence alone fills me with hope and determination. Without him, I may have never unlocked my Sacred Sword, or things could have gotten worse with you. I'm sorry I can't explain it."

With Keldeo's answer, the three Swords of Justice looked at each other and formed a huddle. Through the whispers, Keldeo couldn't understand what they were discussing but he hopes it's something positive.

Finally, they turned around. Virizion and Terrakion had a surprised look on their faces while Cobalion looked like he's accepted something.

"Keldeo.", the voice of his leader made Keldeo stand at attention.

"Do you want to travel with Ash?" he suddenly asked.

"I uh, what!?" Keldeo screamed out loud as he was confused about Cobalion's question. But as he absorbed the words, he began to wonder if he would like to travel with Ash. He felt happy, hopeful, determined, safe, and comfortable when he was with Ash.

"So, what will it be?" Cobalion asked.

"Cobalion wait. Are you sure you want this?" Virizion asked.

"Yeah, I thought you wanted him to stay with us," Terrakion added.

"Yes, but now that Keldeo is a Sword of Justice, I don't see why he can't decide for himself." Cobalion explained.

"I..."

"Let him answer." Cobalion ordered, cutting off Virizion.

They all eyed Keldeo waiting for his answer.

"Yes, I want to go with Ash ok. But could you stop worrying about this?" Keldeo begged.

"No, we can't. You're going with a human." Virizion shouted as she stepped forward, confronting Keldeo.

"But he's the Chosen One, as you call him." Keldeo retorted.

Keldeo stood his ground and eyed Virizion, challenging her. She did the same, but out of nowhere, her head glowed. Reacting quickly Keldeo summoned his Secret Sword and blocked Virizion's blade as it came at him.

Locking their swords both opponents were in a stalemate, trying to overpower each other, wanting one another to yield. "Should we stop this?" Terrakion questioned.

"No this is a test."

With a nod, Terrakion along with Cobalion watched the ensuing fight between the youngest member and the most patient member, who doesn't seem happy at the moment. And they did not want to get between her.

"Why are you doing this? I decided to go with him," Keldeo grunted.

"It's because you wanted to be a Sword of Justice, to be one of us." Virizion gritted back.

"I am a Sword of Justice."

"You're not acting like one."

"But I just want to be happy!" Keldeo screamed pushing Virizion back. She didn't expect the burst of strength as her front hooves were in the air. Taking the opportunity, Keldeo spun until his hind legs were in front of Virizion and kicked. The kick landed and launched Virizion back, knocking the air out of her.

Turning around again, Keldeo opened his mouth and a blue sphere began to form. Putting a bit more power, he launched it, and once again it connected. Virizion staggered and fell. When she tried to get up, a sword blocked her way.

Looking at Keldeo, Virizion could see the fire in his eyes as he truly wanted to go with Ash. She smiled and said, "I yield. Congratulations Keldeo."

Keldeo backed off and unsummoned his Secret Sword. Cobalion stepped forward and stated, "I guess Keldeo won. Congrats kid, I guess you can go with Ash."

Keldeo beamed at the news that he was allowed to travel with Ash. But the realization hit him, "It was a test?"

They nodded as one of the members urged Virizion to get up. She did and now the Sword's of Justice all looked at Keldeo.

"Keldeo may I wish you luck on your journey with Ash. But remember your promise, 'To protect innocent Pokémon and humans alike.' And that you have fun." Cobalion was the first to speak.

Terrakion went up next and spoke, "I wish you good luck Keldeo, and kick some butt." Keldeo chuckled at Terrakion's antics as they would never get old. With their words spoken, Cobalion and Terrakion both made their leave and entered the forest.

Now the only one left was Virizion. Keldeo felt embarrassed from his tantrum with her. But the feelings are mutual for Virizion as well, seeing that she acted out as well. So now they both stood there in awkward silence.

It was then broken when Virizion spoke, "I'm sorry for what happened back there."

"It's alright Virizion." Keldeo acknowledged.

Keldeo trotted up to Virizion to get a better look at the damage he's done to her. Luckily her fur wasn't roughed up but he noticed some bruises forming, making him wince.

"Keldeo I trust Ash, and I trust your decision. He's a good person."

Keldeo nodded, not speaking a word as he stood in silence. "Plus, I think that it's a great idea for a Sword of Justice traveling the world. It covers more ground of us protecting the innocent."

Keldeo smiled at the idea, he thought it was a great idea. Finally looking up at Virizion, Keldeo could see her smiling. Her smile always made him smile. Virizion suddenly leaned down and kissed him on the lips. Keldeo leaped back with a blush, making Virizion laugh with a blush as well.

"Maybe you should get going," Virizion commented with a wink before hopping off. She stopped and turned one more time, "We will always accept you when you come back ok." she stated before entering the forest, leaving Keldeo in a daze.

He quickly shook himself and quickly bolted to the city Ash was headed. 'Please, I hope I'm not too late.' Keldeo pleaded to himself, hopping over stones and bushes.

With Ash.

"Well, are you guys ready," Ash called out excitedly, jumping a bit.

"My, my eager are we." Ash's green-haired friend, Cilan stated.

"I know, such a little kid." Ash's other friend, Iris taunted.

Ash could chuckle to himself as he looked up in the sky. It was way past midnight and the sun of the morning soon began to arrive. And soon will the morning train arrive as well.

"Pika pi", Ash's best friend cooed.

He smiled and turned to Pikachu, who was on his shoulder. He scratched behind Pikachu's ear, causing the Pokémon to lean into his touch. He knew Pikachu, along with himself and the rest of the group, were tired after their encounter with Kyruem. And now they couldn't wait to enter the train and get some shut-eye.

They jumped when they heard the screech of the train before hissing to a stop. They waited for the doors to open and once it did, the group entered and went to a couple of seats. Once everyone got settled, they quickly fell into peaceful slumber as the cart gently rocked as the train accelerated forward to its next destination. But among the group only one person was awake.

Ash still had many thoughts running. From his crazy meeting with Keldeo to running from Kyruem to saving the Swords of Justice and then... leaving Keldeo. Ash for once felt sad about separating from a friend. He's separated from others for reasons and felt bad about them all. For example, saying good-bye to a few friends. But with Keldeo it was different. And there would be a zero percent chance of seeing him again.

"Ash!" a voice called out to him from outside.

Ash stood up, surprised hearing a familiar voice. 'I recognize that voice.' Ash thought to himself as he looked out the window. Sure enough, he could see Keldeo running alongside the train.

"Keldeo!" Ash shouted as he ran towards the back of the train.

Stopping on a train connector, Ash looked to his right and could see Keldeo next to him. "What are you doing Keldeo?" Ash asked.

"I just wanted to come with you, Ash." Keldeo panted.

Ash nodded before panicking a little as Keldeo began to lose speed and was soon out of sight. Ash ran again, this time heading towards the very end of the train. Once he arrived he couldn't see Keldeo, 'Is it too late?'.

*pant, pant*

Looking to his right again, Ash could see Keldeo running, but still losing speed. "Keldeo!" Ash yelled as he leaned over the rail and offered his hand. Seeing this Keldeo ran past his limit and jumped. Unbeknownst to Keldeo he jumped too high and landed on Ash.

Keldeo panted as he took a break from all that running and soon noticed that he was on top of Ash. Keldeo smiled and showered Ash with hugs. Ash giggled and gently pushed Keldeo off. Keldeo complied but only did Ash lean up, did he hug him once more.

Ash asked a question while still being hugged, "Keldeo what are you doing here?"

"Nothing much," Keldeo answered.

"Ok, but why do you want to come with me?" Ash asked another question.

"Because you helped me and that I am in your debt but you're really fun to be around," Keldeo responded.

"But what about the Swords of Justice?"

"They said I could go. I am a Sword of Justice as well. I just have to keep my promise to protect the innocent."

Ash smiled at Keldeo's answer and embraced Keldeo's hug. They stayed like this for a good while until the door opened. Walking out was Iris and Cilan who were rubbing their eyes.

"Ash why did you scream like that, people are trying to sleep," Iris commented.

She looked at Ash and her eyes widened as she saw Keldeo and Ash hugging each other. She looked at Cilan and he too was surprised, confirming that this is real.

"Ash! What is Keldeo doing here?" Iris screamed.

"Uh..."

"Ash let me." Keldeo interrupted which in return did Ash nod.

"I came here so that I could be with Ash."

"Is that all?" Iris questioned, tapping her foot.

Keldeo gave a nervous nod, sweat protruding on his head. Iris eyed Keldeo before shrugging and walked back onto the train. Cilan gave a wave of goodbye as he too went back inside. Ash looked up towards Keldeo and muttered, "Thank Arceus, they took it well."

Ash seized Keldeo partly by the neck and partly at his mane and brought him forward to another hug. Keldeo giggled before being surprised by Ash's strength as he playfully shoved Keldeo off and ran back inside the train, initiating a game of tag. As Ash was running, his feet tangled causing him to sprawl on the floor. Ash tried to get up but was gently stepped on. Knowing that there was nothing to do, Ash gave a sigh of defeat eliciting a cheer from Keldeo.

With Keldeo stepping off of Ash, Ash made his way up and turned to Keldeo. Ash kneeled and pulled out an empty poke ball. Ash then asked, "Would you like to be my Pokémon?"

Keldeo gave a nod and responded, "Yes I would, Ash."

Ash gave out his hand, grasping the Pokeball, and showed it in front of Keldeo. Keldeo took a nervous breath before touching the ball. The ball opened and Keldeo was consumed by a red light before disappearing. The ball closed shut and began to wiggle in Ash's hand. Ash looked at the ball in anticipation before smiling as the ball stopped moving, signaling that the Pokémon has been caught.

'Alright!' Ash celebrated in his head. He stopped as he felt the Pokeball shrink in his hands. He frowned upon the realization that he would have to go to a nearby Pokémon Center to trade one of his Pokémon to use Keldeo.

'Hold on Keldeo, I'll get you out.' Ash promised to himself before turning back to get some sleep.

The Next Day

A quarter past seven in the morning, sore and tired, Ash along with his group departed from the train and were now statues as they took sight of the new city. A smile made way to Ash as he looked at his shrunken Pokeball, forcing a frown as he remembered his promise and get Keldeo out and see the world.

"Come on, let's go."

Ash walked forward, ignoring his friends' plea to slow down, and took his time to eye each activity the city folk was doing. From walking with children to going shopping. Ash took in the air and could smell the dirt and concrete, causing him to sigh as he expected more.

He soon stopped as the Pokémon Center was in front of him. He received a nudge of encouragement from Pikachu on his cheek. He smiled and walked forward, entering the building. Ash ended up walking near the end of the front desk and turned right to see the Pokeball machine; able to transport pokeballs throughout different regions.

'This is it,' Ash thought to himself before pressing a few buttons and stood back.

He could see the machine turn on and blinked out words stating 'Please place Pokeball here', with an arrow pointing towards a pedestal. He took out one Pokeball and placed it on the pedestal and stepped back. The machine beeped a few times before a glass case encased the Pokeball and sucked it into the machine's body.

'I guess that does it,' Ash commented to himself, turning away from the machine, knowing Scraggy's Pokeball will be transferred to Kanto.

Looking at Keldeo's shrunken Pokeball, he didn't even wait a minute as it magically enlarged into a regular-sized Pokeball. Grasping it a little tighter, Ash could feel excitement swell up inside him. Ash let out a chuckle before shouting, "Come out, Keldeo."

Ash threw the ball up in the air until gravity did its role and pulled the ball down. In the air, the Pokeball opened and streamed out blue light before closing. The blue light formed into a ball and dispersed and in its place was a familiar face.

Keldeo looked around with worried eyes until he spotted Ash. Keldeo stretched his legs before walking towards him. Finally making it in front of Ash, Keldeo gently butted Ash's stomach. In response, Ash rubbed Keldeo's mane.

"Ash?" Keldeo asked.

"Yeah?"

"Can you not keep me in the Pokeball, it's weird and dark in there. I don't like it." Keldeo stated, shivering in Ash's touch.

"Alright." Ash agreed. He then stepped back and urged Keldeo to follow, which Keldeo did.

Ash and Keldeo walked out of the Pokémon Center. Keldeo squinted at the sudden sunlight entering his eyes. Keldeo's eyes adjusted quickly and found Ash a few feet ahead and quickly caught up. He swerved around Ash and could see him talking to Iris and Cilan. Iris and Cilan then eyed him as he came into view.

Keldeo chuckled at the attention. "I guess I am coming with you from now on."

Iris nodded with a smile, her hair then rustled, and out came her Pokémon partner, Axew. "Axew, Axew." her Pokémon greeted and then jumped off of Iris.

Cilan stood by Iris and took out a Pokeball, threw it in the air which emerged Cilan's Pansage. The grass-type Pokémon went up to Keldeo and gave a wave before it messed around with Axew.

Ash waved his hand forward, urging Keldeo to come forward and meet Ash's friends; even though Keldeo has met them. "Well, what do you have to say Keldeo?"

"Uh... I can't wait to go on an adventure with you and I hope I get to see much stuff along the way."

"I can say the same to you Keldeo," Iris said.

"Yes, we can see all sights and attractions. Won't it be amazing?" Cilan added with a smile.

Keldeo brightened up a bit and began to converse with Iris and Cilan. In the back, Ash was scratching Pikachu's cheek, which the mouse leaned in. "I think this will change a lot of things, don't you think Pikachu?" Ash asked.

"Pikachu." Pikachu nodded.

Ash could only smile as he couldn't anticipate the adventure that he will soon have.

Time skip, Unova League.

"Are you sure you don't want to participate?" Ash called out, chasing an annoyed Keldeo.

"I told you no, can't you leave it at that," Keldeo answered barely turning his head.

"But you could help with the team a lot."

"This isn't about helping."

Ash quickly ran in front of Keldeo and knelt until he was face to face with the colt. "Keldeo, what's wrong?" Ash asked with a worried face.

"It's nothing," Keldeo answered, eyes narrowing.

"I know that you wouldn't get worked up over a battle. But this is different. Is it the league or what?"

Seeing that Ash won't let up Keldeo sighed, his eyes watering a little bit. Ash's eye's widened and quickly leaned in and hugged Keldeo. Keldeo willed himself not to cry, not again, but took a breath and spoke, "It's just like what N said. That people will use Pokémon for their gains. I fear that is what you are trying to do."

Ash rubbed Keldeo's mane as he understood. Ash could grumble at his friend N, for worrying Keldeo with his world's problem. Not that Ash could agree with N, that people are selfish with their Pokémon. But most people care for Pokémon. Ash knows that he will never use his Pokémon for his selfish reasons, and now Keldeo thinks that's what he is trying to do.

"No Keldeo, I would never use you for my gain," Ash explained and he tightened his hold on him. "Not in a million years would I use you or my Pokémon for selfish reasons."

Keldeo looked up at Ash as he continued talking, "You are my friend, I would never hurt you, you know that." Keldeo nodded in understanding.

Keldeo asked Ash, "But why do you need me to participate in the League?"

"I thought having a good team, with good Pokémon could help increase my chances at winning it," Ash answered with a grin. A grin that made Keldeo smile more.

Keldeo turned a little serious and claimed, "I don't want to. I want to use my strength to protect Pokémon. While I will continue fighting for you against people like that Team Rocket trio. I want no part in the League, it doesn't sit right with me."

Ash nodded before standing up and walked back to the Pokémon stadium. Before walking past ten feet Ash turned back, looked at Keldeo, and asked, "Will you look on at my battles?"

"I think I'll skip out on this one, sorry." Keldeo apologized before turning around and headed towards the forest. Ash nodded and continued walking toward the stadium, hoping he could win. But he doubts it now.

Time skip, Kalos League.

"Let's try this again. You want to participate Keldeo?" Ash asked, looking at the colt Pokémon who was trotting next to him.

Keldeo eyed him and looked forward again, responding, "No. I think you have a good team now, I'm betting that you'll win this one."

Ash smiled and rubbed Keldeo's mane for the compliment. He knew that he had a chance even without Keldeo as part of the team, Ash knew he could win this League. But Keldeo denying to join was a downer.

"Will you at least watch and cheer me on?"

Keldeo turned and nodded, "Of course I will."

Ash walked forward, turned back and gave a wave, and continued his way to the arena. Keldeo turned around and made his way to Clemont, Bonnie, and Serena. Keldeo smiled as he walked his way. Keldeo gave one final thought before hurrying on, 'Good luck to you Ash'.

Later, Kalos League Finals.

"Wow!" Keldeo shouted as he watched Ash's battle from the bleachers.

Keldeo along with Clemont, Bonnie, and Serena, had their mouths gaping as they watched the intense battle before them. But Keldeo was shocked that the 'bond' happened again with Ash and his Greninja. Over the past couple of months, these 'bonds' have been occurring more often when Ash and Greninja battled.

And now it seemed that Ash's aura is burning brighter than ever. For one thing, Keldeo noticed was that Ash and Greninja's aura would merge, forming Ash-Greninja as they call it. But is it normal to other people as well? With Prof. Sycamore's explanation of the 'bond' or the 'Bond Phenomenon', Keldeo could try to understand why this was happening with Ash.

'Is it because he's the Chosen One?' Keldeo thought to himself.

So many questions to be answered, but for now, Keldeo would like to enjoy the match. Enjoy some human snacks and relax. Let the adrenaline of who's winning the battle flow in his body. To just enjoy and relax and hope that nothing bad is to come.

It would.

Unknown?

'Uh, where am I?' Keldeo thought to himself as he looked at his surroundings, only seeing darkness. Keldeo looked around and continued to see all dark. It was starting to scare him, he felt trapped. Trapped like in a Pokeball.

'Uh, my head.' Keldeo groaned to himself as his head began to hurt.

A thought came to Keldeo as he noticed why his head was throbbing in pain. Suddenly Keldeo's eyes opened, forcing a hue of red and orange light to blind him. Blinking away until his eyes adjusted and could confirm his theory. Keldeo looked around and confirmed that he was currently upside down.

Looking at what's restraining him, Keldeo looked at his hooves, noticing weight on them. Keldeo could see that his hooves were wrapped in a metal ball and they were floating. Keldeo tried to move but his hooves wouldn't budge. Keldeo groaned in annoyance and looked at his surroundings and could see fire everywhere.

Everywhere Keldeo looked he could see a fire raging on. Not only that but some buildings, that he noticed, were wrapped in blackish-red roots.

"Isn't this beautiful." A voice commented.

Keldeo strained his neck trying to find the source of the voice. Keldeo finally caught the face of the man who commented on the chaos of the fires. A tall man with orange spikey hair, wearing a suit.

"I know you," Keldeo said.

"Yes, you do."

"Who are you?"

"I am Lysander," Lysander answered.

"Help me, I need to find my friend and stop this chaos." Keldeo pleaded.

"Now why would I stop something that I just started," Lysander responded in a disappointed tone.

Keldeo eyes widen as the memories flooded into him. Yes, it was Lysander. He's the one who started this. But why is he here now? And where is Ash?

"Ash!" Keldeo shouted as he realized that Ash was gone.

"Don't worry about him. He and the rest are near you." Lysander calmly answered.

"Where," Keldeo asked, eyes furrowing.

"Look next to you"

Doing so, he could feel his heart stop as Ash and the rest of his Pokémon were restrained by the same metal balls as he is. The worse thing was that Ash and the other Pokémon were unconscious. "Ash wake up!" Keldeo shouted.

The voice of his best friend stirred Ash, causing his eyes to slowly open. Once his eyes adjusted to the light, he began to look around, worry etched on his face. Ash then eyed Keldeo and his face relaxed.

"Keldeo where are we. Why can't I move?" Ash asked as he tried to move, noticing the metal balls restraining him. He noticed that they were on his feet as well and tried to move them, but they wouldn't budge. Ash sighed in defeat and stopped struggling.

"Ash was in serious trouble. It's Lysander..."

"I think Ash already understands the situation Keldeo." Lysander interrupted.

Ash turned towards Lysander. Once his eyes landed on the man himself, his eyes furrowed. Ash looked around some more and noticed Keldeo's position and frowned. He turned a bit and noticed his Pokémon also unconscious, especially Pikachu making him frown more.

With a sigh, Ash asked, "What do you want, why do you want this?"

"The world is corrupt and I intend to fix it. But first I need the power to help cleanse it. That being you." Lysander said, pointing directly at Ash.

Both Ash and Keldeo's eyes widened. Lysander intended to use Ash for a world-ending plan. Having enough, Keldeo tried to break free from his restraints but again, they wouldn't budge.

"Now, now. It's best if you don't fight it." Lysander said. Upon his statement, Lysander began to giggle which turned into full-blown laughter. His laughter startled all of Ash's other Pokémon, causing them to wake up.

"Pika, pi?" Pikachu mumbled as the mouse Pokémon was regaining consciousness.

"Pikachu!" Ash shouted.

"Sh. Now let's not get distracted." Lysander sang as he turned towards the chaos.

It was Lysander's tone of voice that did Ash and the rest of his Pokémon struggled to get free again. Hawlucha and Noivern thrashed around but the results stayed the same. Goodra, Talonflame, and Pikachu attempted to move their limbs but failed to do so. Only Greninja couldn't move as he was lying down, restrained, and was injured.

"Now to begin the process," Lysander stated.

It was then that more metal balls floated around the Pokémon until they hovered in front of Ash and Greninja. A drop of sweat fell from Ash as he tried to move again, but no matter how hard he tried the balls could never break.

"This was used to control Zygarde. So please do not fight it." Lysander calmly stated.

The balls shivered until they opened, revealing their red lights inside. The red lights beamed a little before shooting out red beams to Ash and Greninja, causing both victims to scream in pain.

"Ash!"

"Pika!"

Lysander looked on with a grin, insanity in his eyes as they gleamed from the fires around. Lysander's grin grew wider as Ash and his Greninja bellowed in pain. 'Just as planned.' he thought to himself.

"Ah! Help, it hurts. Someone please." Ash gritted.

His Pokémon shouted and cried for someone, something to stop this only for the suffering to continue. They all shouted Ash's name hoping it would do something, yet nothing did. When nothing could be done, some began to shed tears seeing their friend writhe in pain.

Greninja, having been through multiple battles and ending with injuries, was faring better but let out the occasional grunt and groan. Greninja tried to connect with Ash to calm his nerves but Ash's pain was severing the connection. So Greninja, with nothing else he could do, closed his eyes and awaited his end.

'No, this can't be happening.' Keldeo panicked in his mind as he saw his best friend dying he began to shed tears.

"No, no please." Keldeo cried.

"K-Keldeo, it hurts."

"I know."

"I can't think... anymore, I f-feel cold.", Ash coughed out, "Is this the end?"

'No, this can't be the end' Keldeo thought to himself. Through his tear-filled eyes, Keldeo could see Ash lose more of himself. Greninja wasn't in a better spot as he had droopy eyes and now Ash's eyes were getting droopy.

"No! This won't be the end, I won't allow it." Keldeo shouted.

Ash painfully turned his head and looked on, as if Keldeo wasn't in front of him. Maybe Ash was eying a voice he could hear, or not. Ash could feel his eyes drop and could hardly see the fires around him, only darkness. "No!" Ash heard a voice shouted out until Ash went into a state of consciousness and unconsciousness.

While Ash's eyes closed, Keldeo shouted, "No!", and activated his Secret Sword.

"What!" Lysander called out in surprise.

Keldeo paid no mind to Lysander as the colt began to thrash his head around. While trashing around, Keldeo closed his eyes in grief and anger. Closed eyes, tears running, grief and anger in the system, Keldeo screamed his lungs out like a child throwing a tantrum. Unbeknownst to Keldeo, his Secret Sword glowed brighter until Keldeo thrashed in a certain direction and the sword shot forward.

The glowing sword never spun in the air nor did it lose its speed. Most of Ash's Pokémon, tears still in their eyes, looked in wonder as the glowing sword was heading towards Ash. And Keldeo would question what happen next for the rest of his life, but the sword sliced both the ball shooting the red beam and the ball restraining Ash's arm.

"What!" Lysander shouted.

The metal balls sparked with electricity and whined as they shut off. The red beam stopped and the ball holding Ash broke loose. Along with Ash's restraints falling off, the rest of Ash's Pokémon restraints broke off too.

"No!"

Keldeo's glowing sword on his head vanished, and Keldeo continued to cry, not thrashing his head anymore Keldeo continued to cry until he dropped to the floor along with the rest of Ash's Pokémon. Keldeo looked around, eyes full of disbelief, and carefully stood up hoping this was real. His breath hitched as he knew that it was real and that he was free.

Keldeo and the others found Ash on the floor and quickly went to his side. Only Keldeo and Pikachu were the ones who got to him first, the rest stood back. Pikachu tapped Ash's waisted, prodding for a response. And Keldeo nudged Ash's hat also prodding a response.

"Ash? Ash, please wake up." Keldeo pleaded.

"Pika pi."

Keldeo continued to nudge on along with Pikachu until they stopped as they heard the boy groan. They looked at each other, mouths agape, and gave a relieved sigh of relief and a smile at the end. They looked back, checking on Greninja, and were surprised to see the ninja Pokémon already up, although he was rubbing his head.

Again, Keldeo and Pikachu sighed in relief. Knowing the Greninja was up and around, he knew that Ash would get up soon. Keldeo eyed Pikachu and gave a nod. Pikachu nodded in return and continued to nudge Ash into consciousness.

With Pikachu resuscitating Ash, Keldeo looked around the area. Keldeo frowned as Lysander was nowhere to be seen. 'I guess he ran.' Keldeo chuckled, 'As he should have. No one hurts my friends and gets away with it.'

Keldeo frowned as he pondered what he thought. 'Friend,'. Keldeo thought of what Ash was to him and concluded that Ash wasn't just a friend. He was a brother, he was family to him and curse Arceus if he was to lose him.

"Pikachu!"

Looking up, he could see Pikachu happily waving to him, urging him to hurry towards the mouse. Keldeo cried out in joy as he spotted Ash's eyes slowly opening. The other Pokémon also cheered at the sight of Ash's awakening.

Keldeo skidded to a stop in front of Ash and gently nudged him. Ash groaned in response but Keldeo could see his eyes become more awake. Keldeo stopped when he saw Ash slowly, painfully raise his hand as he patted Keldeo and then focused on Pikachu.

Tears of joy leaked out and Keldeo bedded down to nuzzle Ash's cheek. Ash giggled in response before turning on his back showing the sky his stomach. Ash groaned as he tried to sit up but fell back. Keldeo reacted quickly by going behind Ash, caught him, and stood still.

Ash groaned again and tried again. He succeeded and was on his feet, albeit his legs were wobbly. Keldeo walked to Ash's side for support. Ash looked at the colt before he placed his hands so that he can steady himself. Pikachu cooed in delight before sprinting to Ash and climbed up until he was on his shoulder.

Ash groaned in pain as his legs buckled at the weight. "Pikachu, please get off him," Keldeo asked, watching Ash nearly fall from the weight on him.

Pikachu frowned but nodded in understanding and got off before Ash could collapse. Once Pikachu was off Ash spoke, "What happened?"

Keldeo smiled and answered, "You were being controlled but somehow we all got free from Lysander."

"Where is Lysander?"

"Not here."

Ash let out a huff before looking at Pikachu, asking, "Want to save the world again Pikachu?"

Pikachu nodded and turned to the rest of the Pokémon and ordered them to find a way to leave the area. The Pokémon nodded and went off, hoping to find a way to leave this dreaded place. As they were doing so it was now only Ash and Keldeo.

"We should find an exit somewhere," Ash commented.

Keldeo nodded and began to trot forward to get out of the area. Keldeo eyed Ash who was on his side, using him for support. Keldeo's expression turned sour as he thought of the man who did this. 'When I find you, you can promise me that justice will be served.' Keldeo spat to himself before shaking his head. 'No, I can't think like this. Let me check on Ash.' Keldeo reminded himself.

"Ash are you alright?" Keldeo asked.

"I'm doing fine, thank you."

"No you're not, that is obvious."

"I guess your right, but forget about it." Ash pleaded.

"Forget about it? Forget about it! Ash, you nearly lost control in the likes of Lysander. And you want me to forget about it. Do you even know what we all felt when we saw you losing yourself? I felt miserable." Keldeo yelled.

"Ok, I'm sorry..."

"No. I never felt more miserable in my life when that happened. I nearly lost one family and I will not lose another. Ash, I cannot tell you how much I love you..."

"Wait you love me?"

"Yes. Yes, I do uh... well not that way. But I see you as a brother, like family. Even your Pokémon loves you, Ash. And if you lost yourself back there I wouldn't know what to do. Just like everything else back then. Without you, I wouldn't have been a Sword of Justice. Without you, I wouldn't have the courage to face Kyurem. It's you Ash that makes me feel safe, determined, and motivated to be with you."

Keldeo stopped moving as he spoke his mind and walked in front of Ash. He took a breath and spoke again, "Ash your a great person, I can see why the other Swords let me join you. But I need you to focus, we need to stop Lysander. And we can only do that together. What do you say?"

Ash stood there for a minute, he then smiled, kneeled in front of Keldeo, and patted him before nodding in agreement. This also caused Keldeo to smirk. Keldeo then turned forward again and waited for Ash. Ash stepped forward and stood by Keldeo's side then both walked forward, planning to end the chaos.

As they were walking, Ash turned to Keldeo with a smirk and asked, "Are you sure you don't love me that way."

Keldeo stopped for a second, his face turning red, and continued as he answered, "No I don't love you that way. Besides, I think someone else likes me."

"Oh really."

"Yes really."

"So who is it? Is it one of mine or anyone else's Pokémon?"

"No, it's none of you all's Pokémon. But I think Virizion has feelings for me."

"Really how do you know?"

"Well, she kissed me before I left."

"Well good for you."

Keldeo smiled along with Ash, 'Maybe you will experience love someday, Ash.' Keldeo commented in his head.

Time skip, at the Kalos Airport.

"I guess this is it," Ash said, sniffing as he held back tears, "although I don't know if I'll ever see you again."

"I agree with you on that, Ash," Clemont stated as he wiped his tears from his blue jacket.

"Aw, don't be sad Clemont. Maybe we'll see each other again soon... sometime." Bonnie comforted Clemont. It worked a little as Clemont gave a little smile, although with fewer tears streaking his face.

"Yeah. I hope I could see you all again someday too. Especially you Ash." Serena commented. Ash nodded in response.

Over the past few days, Ash had spent them resting after saving the world from Lysander and his control on Zygarde. And now he and the rest of his friends were separating. He was leaving Clemont, his little sister, Serena, and recently released his Greninja. Today has been a tough one for him. And now it was time for him and everyone else to leave. Thinking of this made him frown.

Seeing Ash frown, Keldeo gave a comforting nudge. Ash looked at Keldeo and smiled back. Ash crouched down, still keeping eye contact with his pals, and petted Keldeo. Keldeo smiled at the attention as he was being scratched from under his chin, Ash's hand combing his mane, and rubbing his back.

Pikachu giggled at this as it too wanted attention from Ash. So the mouse Pokémon jumped down and stood next to Keldeo and waited for his scratches. His patience rewarded him as he received some pets and scratches from Ash until he stood up.

They all jumped a little when they heard the screech of the airplanes leaving. Serena looked at her phone and noticed that her flight was near takeoff. "Oh gosh, my flight is next I have to go."

"Bye." everyone responded.

As Serena went down an escalator until she stopped, turned, and faced Ash's direction. 'I can't forget,' Serena thought before she ran towards Ash. Reaching the top, she ran until she stopped in front of Ash.

Whatever she was going to do, she had to do it fast and then leave. She wished she had more time but knew that there wasn't time, or maybe a next time so she had to make the best of it. But the thought of it was a terrible one making her flood with tears.

"Serena?" Ash asked. "Are you okay?"

"I will be after this." she cryptically commented.

"What..."

Ash couldn't speak as Serena smirked, tipped-toed to meet his height, and kissed him. Serena could laugh to herself as she felt Ash stiffen from the sudden contact. For a moment for Ash, he became dizzy from the smell of her perfume but quickly regained his senses, just as she reeled back.

Ash stood still, as a statue, as he tried to comprehend what happened. Things could be different for the others as they had their mouth ajar upon seeing what happened. All the while, Serena still faced Ash and went down the escalator with a blush on her face, but a smile was with her through it all.

She waved and shouted, "Goodbye, Ash!". This left Ash and everyone else in the group alone, still shocked seeing Serena kiss Ash. It was until Keldeo broke the silence, "I guess our flight is here, I guess this is goodbye?"

Ash nodded and waved to Clemont and Bonnie before running towards his flight gate. Keldeo and Pikachu ran alongside Ash. As they ran, Keldeo asked a question, "So what was that?"

"A goodbye from a friend," Ash responded.

"Are you sure it's from a friend?"

"Yes."

Keldeo looked at Pikachu with a concerned expression. Pikachu's only response was a shrug, with a smirk, as this was the usual reaction Ash gives when something like this happens.

Keldeo was awestruck at how dumb Ash could be towards people's feelings towards him, but he let it go as they neared the gate to the Kanto region.

Pallet Town

A few hours after landing in Kanto, walking from the airport, and finally entering Pallet Town did Ash realize how tired he was. The moment he entered his home, he was greeted by a very excited mother of his along with a huge feast that could fill any legendary. After eating he, Pikachu and Keldeo went upstairs to his room where they plan on catching some sleep.

'If sleep was as easy to catch then any other Pokémon.' Ash mumbled to himself as played on his bed, wide awake. Looking to his left he could see Pikachu, who was asleep, and behind the mouse, Pokémon was the wall. But on his left was Keldeo, on the floor also asleep. So now only Ash was the one who was awake. Or was he.

As Ash turned towards Pikachu to get a better position to sleep, he heard a sniff from the sleeping Pokémon on the floor. He heard another sniff and slowly turned around, confused. Looking at Keldeo, he could see his head twitch as another sniff erupted from him. And with the moonlight shining, Ash was shocked to see tears leak out from Keldeo. Ash was about to get up but Keldeo reeled his head back with a gasp, tears still flowing from his eyes.

"Are you alright, Keldeo?" Ash whispered.

Keldeo turned at Ash and gave a small sigh of relief but he couldn't stop himself from crying even more. Ash was about to ask again, but Keldeo shook his head.

"No, I had a bad dream. But it was real." Keldeo explained.

"It's ok, I have bad dreams too."

"No, you don't." Keldeo spoke in a higher volume, "It was about back then when Lysander tried to control you. And I dreamed that he succeeded and then the world turned dark. All I could hear was the screams of your friends and Pokémon. I tried yelling out but nothing ever returned. I was left all alone and scared. Then I saw you, but you were different. You looked so evil I could stand to see you like this."

With Keldeo's explanation of this, Ash could frown at the thought as he understood what Keldeo was coming from. Even Ash thought that it was the end of him. But he's here with his family and he was going to prove that to Keldeo.

Very carefully, without waking Pikachu, Ash scooted back and lifted the blankets and sheets from his bed until a spot was available. This caught Keldeo's attention as Ash patted the open spot in the bed. Keldeo walked until he was in front of the bed. Keldeo was hesitant and Ash knew it so he reached and rubbed Keldeo's cheek in reassurance.

Keldeo nodded thanks and got on the bed. After finding some space, Keldeo could find himself tucking his legs to himself while having space to stretch his legs if needed, and was surprised to see Ash wrap his arms around him and pulled him towards Ash. Ash pinned Keldeo with his hug and gave Keldeo a rub in reassurance.

"It's okay Keldeo. I am here and I will always be here." Ash spoke calmly.

Keldeo teared up from this and sunk into the hug and from then on, neither complained about the space of the bed as both were asleep in the same position, hugging each other.

Time skip, one month later.

Ash and Keldeo could feel the summer crawl its way to Kanto as the shine of leaves never glowed brighter than any other season. Which is the right time as the fruit market in Pallet Town should be fresh from its orchard.

Currently, Ash, Pikachu, and Keldeo were doing a chore for Ash's mother. Walking through the aisles Ash could only gawk at the row of fresh fruit.

"Pika!" Pikachu ogled at the sight of the fruits.

Ash could chuckle at the mouse Pokémon as it was nearly falling off his shoulder as Pikachu dreamily reached for the fruit. But Ash was unconcerned as Keldeo was next to him in case Pikachu accidentally falls, which made Ash grateful for the colt. That wasn't the reason for Keldeo being close. The thing was that after the night of Keldeo's nightmare, he's been more clingy although Ash didn't mind, he loved it.

"Hey those look good, don't you think Keldeo?" Ash asked, walking towards a fruit stand selling Oran berries and apples.

Keldeo trotted forward so he could see what Ash was pointing at, and Keldeo could only drool in response. Ash chuckled at Keldeo's response, turned forwards toward the cashier, and ordered a bag of Oran berries and another for the apples.

'This should be it.' Ash concluded as he looked over the shopping list, which wasn't a lot, just a bag of Oran berries and apples. Ash's face faulted, but at least he was done with the chore. Grabbing the bag, Ash walked along the path to his home.

As he was walking, he heard a hoarse, elderly voice call to him, "Excuse me, young man,". Ash looked to the source of the voice and found an elderly woman waving to him, "Would you like to do a raffle?" she asked.

Having nothing to do Ash shrugged, "Sure."

"Great." she cheered and waved, urged him to come forward to her stand. Ash did so, Keldeo following close behind as he continued looking at all the fruits, and was soon in front of the stand. Ash looked at the contents on the stand and could see a raffle spinner. A wrinkled hand patted the spinner making Ash look at the woman and understood that the spinner belonged to her.

"This 'ole thing here, as you know, is a raffle spinner which you have a chance to win a grand prize." the woman explained.

Ash's eye sparkled at the thought of a grand prize. Keldeo overheard the explanation and also sparkled at the thought of a prize. Keldeo walked up next to Ash as he wanted to see if Ash would win. The elderly woman gave out a ticket, placed it in front of Ash, and asked him to sign his name. Ash did so and the woman took it, placed it in a box, gave the price which Ash paid, and began to spin the wheel.

Keldeo was amazed at the wheel causing Ash to chuckle at his innocent reaction. Ash himself could hardly keep in his excitement as the wheel kept on spinning. "I hope I win."

Keldeo nodded in agreement but added an extra prize, "I hope so. But if you don't well one prize for you is that I have decided that I will battle alongside you on your next League tournament."

Ash looked at Keldeo, awestruck that he would do this, and asked, "Are you sure, what made you brought it up?"

Keldeo nodded in confirmation and explained, "After the incident in Kalos, I thought it would be better if I fight for you so that you won't ever get hurt again."

Ash frowned a bit at his reason, so he kneeled to Keldeo's height and scratched his head. Keldeo leaned on the affection. Ash continued scratching but now without saying "Keldeo, I know you're worried about me after the incident. But in reality, I have Pikachu and my Pokémon that will try their absolute hardest to not let anything hurt me. What I'm saying is that you don't have to protect me is all."

Keldeo's face faltered a little but understood. "I understand that, but it still won't stop me."

Ash smiled at the stubborn colt and his attention was moved from a sudden ringing of a bell. Looking back to the elderly woman, who was waving a little bell, and looked at the wheel as bellow it was a golden ball. Ash's eyes widened as he realized that he won.

"Congratulations young man." the elderly woman commented.

Ash jumped up and whooped as Keldeo cheered along with him. Pikachu jumped on Ash's shoulders in excitement as well. "Oh man, what do I win," Ash asked as he calmed down.

"Well from what I understand," she commented as she read a paper which looked like a flier, "oh there we are, you young sir has won a free trip to the Alola region. Here's a paper on what to do to redeem your prize"

The elderly woman gave Ash a paper with instructions. Ash thanked her walked away from the stand. With the elderly woman behind him, Ash bolted to a sprint with Keldeo running behind him and brushed through the crowd of people at the market.

"Come on Keldeo. How about we enjoy a nice vacation." Ash yelled.

"Yeah, that sounds about nice right now," Keldeo yelled back.

Through day and night, Keldeo has been haunted by the nightmare of Ash. And deep down, Keldeo knew that he needed something to take his mind off from the trauma. So Keldeo agreed with himself that he too would like a vacation.

Keldeo chuckled as he heard Ash whoop in victory as he ran over a hill and to the direction of his house. "Yeah," Keldeo agreed to himself, "a vacation is what I need." before running along with Ash.