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As always, I do not own Pokémon, Nintendo or the characters included in this story.

Chapter 4: The Courageous Cub

It is the first Friday of term and everyone in the academy is looking forward to enjoying the upcoming weekend. Prince Ash and his roommates have planned to explore the wilderness of Celesta Island to catch any wild Pokémon they could find. We now find the prince exiting his final class of the week along with Barry and the rest of their classmates while the bells sounded the end of class.

"Finally!" Exclaimed Barry as he and Ash walked down the halls with the other students. "I thought the bell would never ring!."
"Aw, c'mon, Barry, Ice class hasn't been boring at all. You were enjoying it as much as I did." Commented Ash.
"I'm not saying that it was boring. I'm saying that the bell took so long to ring! Not to mention that it was freezing in there!" Barry replied.
"Well, I gotta agree with ya on that. But boy, our teacher, Lorelei sure is something huh?" Ash said. "I'm still amazed of the way she showed up to class. Her appearing in a spiral of snow as a human-sized ice shard coming out of the ground and shaping itself into her human form. It was like seeing an ice sculpture before becoming flesh and blood. Wait till I write to my handmaiden, Misty about this. She's gonna be so jealous when she hears that Lorelei is my teacher."
"Whaddya mean?" asked Barry. "Does she specialize in Ice types too?"
"Well, not really. It's just that Misty is just crazy about Water Pokémon. You should've seen her face the day I caught my Oshawott. She wouldn't stop squealing on how absolutely adorable he is. Apparently, she really idolizes Lorelei. I heard from back home that a she's also a very skilled Water Pokémon trainer despite specializing in Ice and goes by her nickname, Prima. But I had no Idea that she would be teaching here. When Misty reads my next letter and learns about Lorelei, I'll bet she'll go ballistic."
"Wow. She sure must REALLY love Water Pokémon." Said Barry.
"You have no idea." Said Ash. "Though it's an entirely different story when it comes to Bug types. She's completely afraid of Bug Pokémon. She sees so much as a Caterpie, a Nincada or even a Sewadle, she screams at the top of her lungs and runs away in fright."
"Yikes. So I guess when it comes to bugs, this Misty's a complete chicken." laughed Barry.
"Funny thing. Tracey, the royal artist said something like that one time and Misty stomped on his foot in anger." Ash said with a nervous chuckle. "And I'll bet one of my other handmaidens, Iris wouldn't feel too comfortable around Lorelei or any of the other Ice teachers here."
"How come?" Barry asked again.
"Iris LOVES Dragon types and is about as afraid of Ice types like Misty is to Bugs. Since Ice is strong against Dragon, she's pretty much scared of any Ice Pokémon that comes by. Whether it's either a powerful and intimidating Beartic or an Abomasnow, or even cute and harmless Snover or a Smoochuml, Iris freaks out and would climb up a tree to hide. Heck, she's even afraid of my Glalie and May's Glaceon."
"Wow, this Iris sure has a serious issue with Ice types." Barry awed.

The two made their way to one of the school courtyards where they regrouped with the rest of their roommates and Ash called back his Pokémon.

"So, now that the weekend has arrived, where should we head off tomorrow to catch some Pokémon?" Asked Ritchie.
"This island is pretty huge. There's way too many places to look for just one day let alone the weekend." said Barry.
"Well, we could check out the nearby caves." Calem suggested. "There might be some Pokémon in there."
"Or we could check one of the forests." said Cameron. "It's bound to have plenty of good ones there too."
"Arre." Riolu barked.
"Sounds good to me." Agreed Ash.
"Pika!" Pikachu added.
"Me too!" Said Brendan.
Same here!" said Barry.
Calem decided to give in since he's pretty much outvoted from the rest of his roommates.
"Alright guys. You win. The forest it is." He said.

"Can we come too?" A voice asked.

The boys turned to see Angie, with her Shinx and her roommates, Melody, Giselle, Macy, Miette and Anabel standing behind Ash.

"Oh, hi, girls." he greeted. "You say you wanna come with us?"
"Of course we do." Giselle replied. "It'll be fun. And we could probably have a picnic for lunch." She then approached Ash with a flirty look "Not to mention that it could be dangerous with some pretty scary Pokémon out there. I'm sure someone as strong as you could protect us, Ash."
"But don't you have your own Pokémon to protect you?" Ash asked, not noticing the brunette's tease.
"Sure, but I'm sure YOUR Pokémon could provide extra help." Giselle cooed.
"Yeah, Ash. Surely a very brave and especially handsome prince like you must have some strong Pokémon to help out." Miette teased as she clasped Ash's hands and batted her eyes. "So can we come too? Pleeeeeeaaaaasssssse?
"Sure, why not?" Ash replied with a smile. "The more the merrier. Right, Pikachu?"
Pika pika!" Pikachu agreed.
"YAY!" The girls cheered.
"Um, Ash? Can we talk?" asked Cameron as he palmed Ash's shoulder from behind.
"Ok." The prince obliged.
"Excuse us girls, for one moment, please." Ritchie requested.

Ash then approached his roommates where they formed a huddle.

"Ash, you sure it's a good idea to have the girls come with us tomorrow?" Whispered Cameron.
"Why not?" Ash whispered back. "Is something wrong?"
"It's just that, haven't you noticed the way Giselle and Miette were acting around you just now? They're flirting with ya." Said Calem.
"Huh? Flirting? What are you talking about?" Ash asked confusedly making the others groan.
"Boy, are you dense." Mulled Brendan.
"Aw, come on guys. What harm could it do to bring them along? And besides, like Barry said, the island is pretty huge. I'm guessing that the forests could be huge too. If we bring them along, they could pretty much help us out. With the twelve of us and our Pokémon, we'll have no problem." Ash pointed out.

The boys thought for a moment about Ash's words.

"He's got a point there." Said Barry.
"And a good one I'd say." Added Brendan.
"I guess you're right." Said Calem.
"Yeah." Ritchie agreed. "We'll really need all the help we can get if we wanna find and catch some Pokémon."
"Pika." Sparky nodded.
"And if they mentioned a picnic, that's good enough for me." said Cameron.
"Arre." Riolu barked.
"So it's decided. The girls are coming with us. Agreed?" Ash asked.
"Agreed." the others replied with a nod.

The boys broke from their huddle and faced the girls.

"Alright girls, we head out to the forest tomorrow after breakfast." Ash said. "Is that okay with you?"
"Absolutely!" The girls replied while smiling.
"Okay. So we'll see you later." Ash said.

And with that being made, the two groups parted to enjoy the rest of the day.

(The next morning)

Ash and his roommates didn't waste any time after breakfast to head out to the courtyard to wait for the others. It wasn't long before the girls arrived with picnic baskets and soon, the group left the academy grounds and off into the forests of the island. They searched for hours and so far, Ritchie captured a Tailow which he nicknamed Rose, Miette caught a male Meowstic, Cameron caught a Ducklett, Macy caught a Numel, Brendan captured an Aron, Calem, a Skiddo, Barry, a Heracross, Angie, a Ledyba, Melody, a Purrloin, Anabel, an Abra and Giselle, a Carbink. Ash however, is the only one of the group who hasn't caught anything yet, but that hasn't broken his spirit yet. We now find the group having their picnic in a nearby open field.

"Here, Ash. I baked these last night especially for you." Miette cooed as she handed the prince a yellow macaron from her basket.
"Mmm. Hey these are pretty tasty Miette." Ash said after taking a bite. "You did a great job."
"Why thank you!" Miette thanked with a giggle.
'Hmmm. Miette's macarons are really good, but I think Serena's macarons are the best in my opinion.' Ash thought as he ate.
"Hey, this one looks tasty." Brendan said as he picks up a spiky red one.
"Oh no!" Miette panicked. "Don't eat that! That's not a macaron! That's-"

But it was too late. Brendan took a bite and in an instant... breathed fire out of his mouth!

"One of my Tamato berry Poképuffs." Miette mumbled.
"AAAHHHHHH! HOT! HOT! HOT!" he screamed.
"Quick Ducklett, use water gun!" Cameron commanded as he called out his new Ducklett out of his Pokégem. Ducklett appeared and fired a stream of water from its bill. The water hits Brendan's burning mouth squarely and extinguishes it.
"Whew. Much better." He breathed in relief. "Thanks, Ducklett."
"Ducklett!" The Wild Bird Pokémon replied with a smile before Cameron returned it.
"So Ash, you're pretty much the only one of us who hasn't caught any Pokémon today." said Calem.
"That's alright." Ash replied. "If I don't catch any Pokémon today, there's always tomorrow or next weekend. I'm patient. I'm in no-"

Ash couldn't finish when he suddenly felt a source of aura close by. And it was weakening.

"Ash? What's wrong?" Melody asked in concern.
"I don't know." he said as he grasped his head. "I just sensed something close by. I think... I think there's a Pokémon that's badly hurt."
"Hold on, you're SENSING an injured Pokémon?" asked Angie. "That's ridiculous."
"No wait, I think he's right." said Anabel as she stood up.
"What do you mean, Anabel?" Questioned Giselle.
"All of a sudden, I hear a voice in my head, calling for help. And I can also hear some other voices and they sound more aggressive towards the first one." Anabel explained.
"Whoa. What, are you psychic like Ms. Sabrina of Psychic class?" asked Barry.
"Well... yes, as a matter of fact." she answered calmly.

Before anyone could react...

"Guys, look!" Ritchie shouted.

The others looked to where Ritchie was pointing and gasped.

A short distance away in the field, they could see the small silhouette of a Pokémon being chased from a group of larger silhouettes flying in the air. Though they couldn't make out what Pokémon is the small silhouette, the larger ones are easily identified as a flock of Mandibuzz. They appear to be chasing the smaller figure and attacking it with numerous Dark Pulses. The group watched in horror as the flock's attacks struck the small figure and injuring it even more. One Mandibuzz flapped her wings unleashing a Whirlwind attack, sending the smaller figure into the air, while another Mandibuzz fired her Dark Pulse right at it, resulting in a small explosion. The figure went limp as it fell hard to the ground and moved no more. The Mandibuzz cawed in victory as they flew in circles above their victim, preparing to feast on their weakened prey. Ash couldn't take it anymore. He won't sit around and watch this Pokémon suffer and become a victim to those Mandibuzz.

"That does it!" He shouted angrily as he sprang to his feet and ran towards the scene.
"Ash! What are you doing?!" Miette exclaimed.
The prince didn't listen as he brought out his Pokégem.

"Oshawott! Pignite! Stop those Mandibuzz!" He commanded as he threw his Pokégem in the air and the said Pokémon came out and ran towards the scene. Pignite allowed Oshawott to hop on its shoulder for a ride.
"Pikachu, go help them out!" Ash said to his partner.
"Pika!' Pikachu acknowledged as he ran towards the other two and joined Oshawott on riding Pignite.

The Mandibuzz soon landed and surrounded their fallen victim with hunger in their eyes.

"Lunch time, girls!" One of them said. Before their beaks could even touch the body...

"CHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

The Mandibuzz turned their heads to see Pignite, Oshawott and Pikachu charging towards them until...

CRASH!!!

Pikachu and Oshawott sprang off of Pignite's shoulders and attacked the Bone Vulture Pokémon in different directions.

"Get out! Get out! Get outta here!!!" Oshawott angrily yelled as he struck them with his Razor Shell.
"Eat this!" Pignite shouted as he hits them with Brick Break.
"Oh no ya don't!"Pikachu said while firing thunderbolts at the Mandibuzz trying to fight back from above.
"Retreat!!!" One Mandibuzz shouted before she and the others flew away from the trio.
"Woohoo! We did it!" Pignite cheered.
"Haha! Look at 'em go!" Pikachu laughed.
"That's right! Fly away, ya cowards!" Oshawott shouted as he threw his scalchop in the air. It only flew a few feet above and it landed with a thud near his feet. "And stay out! Stinkin', greedy Mandibuzzes! You could at least wait til he's dead!" He shouted in anger once more before turning to the others with a look of worry. "He's not dead, is he?"

Pikachu and Pignite were inspecting the injured Pokémon. Its paw was covering its face as it lay on the ground.

"No." Pignite answered. "But You better come look. I think he's out cold."
"Alrighty. What do we got here?" Oshawott pondered as he approached the Pokémon. He and Pikachu lifted the paw to reveal its face.

It appeared to be a feline Pokémon. It is mostly dark brown in color with pale brown paws, ears, tail tip, and face. The tail ends in a pointed, teardrop shape. The muzzle is short with a reddish orange nose and round ears. Finally, there is a reddish orange tuft of fur between the ears

"A Litleo." Oshawott said.
"Now what would a fella like him would be doing out here in the first place?" Pignite wondered.
"I don't know, but right now I think we should get him back to Ash and the others." Pikachu suggested. "He's badly hurt."

Pignite picked up the unconcious Litleo and carried him back to his trainer with Oshawott and Pikachu in tow.

"Great work, guys." He congratulated before taking the Litleo from Pignite's arms. The others then approached the prince to see what's in his possession.

"A Litleo!" Giselle gasped while Ash gently places him on the ground.
"Oh, the poor little Fire type." said Macy.
"There's gotta be something we can do!" Cameron panicked.
"I think there should be some shrubs nearby with berries that might help." suggested Anabel. "We'll cover more ground if we split up."
"Then lets get going!" Ash declared before facing his Pokémon. "Pikachu, you, Oshawott and Pignite stay here and watch over Litleo while we're gone. We'll be back soon."

The three said Pokémon nodded and with that, Ash and the gang ran off in different directions across the field to begin their search for berries.

Minutes have passed as Pikachu, Oshawott and Pignite waited for the humans to return. Just then, they heard a moan from behind. They turned to see Litleo coming around.

"Ugh. My head." He moaned.
"You okay, kid?" Pikachu asked in concern.
"I... I guess so." Litleo replied weakly =.
"You nearly died!" Pignite told him.
"I saved you!" Oshawott declared proudly as he tapped his scalchop. This however earned him a fiery snort from an irritated Pignite and a slap at the back of his head from Pikachu's tail. "Well, my friends helped." He corrected. "... A little."
"Thanks." Litleo said with a groan.
"Try not to move so much." Pignite said. "You're still badly hurt."
"But don't worry, our trainer will be back soon with his friends with some berries to help you out." Pikachu assured.
"Trainer? As in... a human?" Litleo asked before they nodded. "Then maybe you guys can help me out."
"Help? Help with what?" Oshawott questioned.

Litleo was about to answer when...

"HEY GUYS!"

The Pokémon turned their heads to see Prince Ash and the others along with Sparky, Shinx, and Riolu returning with berries in their arms. Once they arrived, they wasted no time in handing the berries to Litleo. The Lion Cub Pokémon ate and was soon healed of his injuries.

"Well you seem better now huh, little guy?" Ash asked kindly.
"Leo leo!" Litleo cheered happily before he came up to Ash and nuzzled against his arm.
"Awwww! How sweet!" Macy smiled. "Litleo likes you, Ash!"
"Yeah, he sure does." Ash chuckled. "So, what were you doing out here in the first place?"
"Lit leo leo leo Lit lit leo!" Litleo said.
"Did any of you guys get that?" Calem asked in confusion.

Most of the others shook their heads while...

"I did." Anabel replied.
"You have?!" the others exclaimed in amazement.
"Yes. You see, I was born with not only the ability to understand Pokémon, but to communicate with them as well." Anabel explained.
"Wow, that's amazing!" Angie complimented to her roommate.
"So what did Litleo say?" Brendan asked.
"It doesn't sound good." Anabel said with a grim tone. "Apparently, his pride has been attacked by a pack of Mightyena last night. There were too many for the Pyroar to fight back, so now they're prisoners to the Mightyena, being forced to do whatever their leader commands. Litleo here was the only one who escaped and was seeking help before he was attacked by the Mandibuzz."
"Is this true, Litleo?" Macy asked. "You were looking for help to save your family from the Mightyena?"
"Litleo!" the cub nodded.

The group stayed silent for a moment after hearing to Anabel's translation.

"So, what should we do?" Angie asked
"What do you mean what should we do?!" Ash replied. The others turned to see Ash with a determined face. "We can't just sit around and let this pack of Mightyena take over Litleo's pride! I say we should help! Are ya with me, Pikachu?"
"Pika!" Pikachu agreed with confidence.
"Ash is right, we have to help!" Said Ritchie.
"Pikachu!" Sparky squeaked in agreement.
"I'm in!" Cameron volunteered.
"Arre!" Riolu barked.
"Me too!" added Macy.

Soon everyone else agreed to help out. Litleo couldn't believe it. He went out to find help to save his pride and now this boy who saved him is more than willing to do so along with his friends. Hope has returned for the cub.

"Well Litleo, you know the way back to your home, you lead." Ash advised.

Litleo nodded and started to run the other direction. The gang packed up their picnic and began to follow the cub to save its pride.

The gang followed for what seemed like an hour. Finally, they arrived at what appears to be a beautiful savanna. It didn't take long for them to spot Litleo's pride and just like the cub said, they were being held captive by the pack of Mightyenas. The female Pyroars were bringing scraps of food to the pack to eat, leaving nothing for the pride as the lone male could do nothing but watch.

"This doesn't make any sense." whispered Calem as he and the others crouched behind a hill. "Pyroars are strong and brave. Why would they just let the Mightyena boss them around like that?"
"I think that's why." Giselle figured while pointing.

The gang looked and they see to their horror, some more Mightyena holding some more Litleos as hostages.

"So that's it." Growled Ritchie. "The Mightyena are threatening to hurt the Litleo if the Pyroar don't do as they say."
"This is awful!" Angie exclaimed quietly. "We have to do something!"
"Anyone got a plan?" Brendan asked. "What about you, Ash?"

Silence ensued.

"Ash?" Brendan asked once more before turning to see Ash not there.

"Where did he go?" Calem pondered.
"There he is!" Ritchie exclaimed while pointing.

The group looked at the bottom of the hill to see Ash, Pikachu, and Litleo marching towards the Mightyena.

"What is he doing?!" Giselle panicked. "Is he crazy?!"
"Is he trying to get himself killed?!" Barry panicked.
"He must be out of his mind to head towards that pack." said Calem.
"Oh wow. Ash is so brave." Awed Miette.
"Well I don't know about all of you, but I'm going with Ash on this one!" Said Ritchie. "If he's going to fight the Mightyena and save the Pyroar and Litleo, then so am I!"
"Pikachu!" Sparky agreed before be and his trainer ran down the hill to follow Prince Ash.

The Mightyena pack were enjoying their new luxury with the Pyroar slaving for them when they were approached by Ash, Pikachu, and Litleo. Immediately, the Mightyena glared and growled angrily at the intruders.

"Mightyena, knock it off!" The prince yelled. "You have no right to take the Pyroar's home and force them to serve you!"
"Pika! Pika-pikachu!" Pikachu added.
"Leo! Litleo!" Litleo growled.

The Mightyena continued to growl and snarl angrily at the intruders while the Pyroar and Litleo stared in amazement. They were amazed that a human would come to stop the Mightyena and save their pride. One of the females noticed the cub by Ash and immediately her eyes widened. She felt a great wave of relief seeing her son safe and sound thanks to this human. The same can be said for her other two cubs witnessing the scene and the lone male Pyroar.

The Mightyena suddenly ceased their snarling. Ritchie and Sparky caught up to Ash as they watched.

"What's up with them?" He asked.
"Beats me." Ash said with a shrug.

The pack then parted to reveal another Mightyena approaching. Unlike the others, instead of black and gray fur, this one had golden and brown fur and blue eyes and nose instead of red. The Mightyena also had a little X-shaped scar on its forehead.

"A Shiny Mightyena!" Awed Melody as she and the rest of the group reached Ash and Ritchie.
"Must be the leader of the pack." Brendan guessed.
"Mightyena, leave the Pyroar and Litleo alone!" Ash demanded "You can't just take their home and make them your slaves!"

The lead Mightyena barked in reply.

"He says that we should mind our own business. They can do what they want, whenever they want and more importantly however they want." Anabel translated.
"How rude!" Macy scoffed.
"Well if we can't convince them, then we'll just have to fight them!" Ash declared before bringing out his Pokégem.
"Pikachu!" Pikachu agreed while emitting sparks from his cheeks.
"Litleo!" The cub Pokémon said as he prepared to fight.
"I agree!" added Ritchie.
"Pika!" Sparky said.
"I'm in!" Macy volunteered.
"Me too!" Said Calem.

One by one, the entire group brought out their Pokégems and prepared for battle. The Mightyena bared their fangs and readied their claws at each of the Pokémon brought out. Barry's Heracross, Sparky, Calem's Chesnaught, Brendan's Swampert, Cameron's Riolu, Anabel's Espeon, Angie's Shinx, Macy's Numel, Giselle's Cubone, Miette's Slurpuff, and Melody's Purrloin all joined the Prince's Pikachu. Both sides charged towards the other as battle began.

Pikachu and Sparky electrocuted some with their Thunderbolts. Heracross took out a couple with his Megahorn and with intense damage. Chesnaught blocked several Mightyena with Spiky Shield while also fighting back with Needle Arm. Swampert fired several Mud Shots. Riolu blasts one with Force Palm before taking on another with Circle Throw. Anabel's Espeon, despite being a Psychic type fought the Mightyena that were guarding the Litleo hostages with attacks like Quick Attack, Iron Tail and Zap Cannon. Shinx bit one with Thunder Fang. Numel scorched a couple with Flamethrower. Cubone whacked several with Bone Club. Slurpuff devastated a couple with Fairy Wind. Purrloin fought one with Slash. And the Young Litleo cub bravely took on one with his Ember.

The Pyroar couldn't believe their eyes. Seeing a bunch of young humans showing up to save them from the tyranny of the Mightyena pack truly is unbelievable. They thought humans couldn't care less about helping out wild Pokémon like them. Yet right before their very eyes, they're actually seeing humans wanting to help save them. This is their chance to fight back and be free. With a mighty roar, the male Pyroar rallied the females and charged into the fray.

"Look!" Calem shouted. "The Pyroar are fighting back!"
Alright!" Ash cheered. "Reinforcements! We can win this!"

Unknown to everyone, the shiny lead Mightyena sneaked away from the battle and prowled towards Macy. She was too busy being focused on the battle that she doesn't even notice the impending danger. Prince Ash however, sensed the pack leader's aura. He turns around to see it creeping towards the girl from behind.

"MACY, LOOK OUT!!!" Ash shouted before he started sprinting towards her.

The battle ceased and everyone turned to see what was happening. Macy turned and gasped in horror as the shiny Mightyena pounced from the ground and into the air with it's fangs bared.

Everything happened in slow motion. The humans, their Pokémon and the Pyroar gasped in horror as the lead Mightyena closed in on its victim as its fangs began to glow white for a devastating Crunch attack at Macy's face while the rest of the pack deviously grinned for their leader. Macy couldn't move out of fear seeing her impeding doom closing in. Suddenly, Prince Ash appeared. He stood in front of Macy and moved both of his arms in front of his face in a defensive position. Macy couldn't believe it. Prince Ash is risking his life to protect her from Mightyena's Crunch and all she could do is watch in horror as her savior is about to be struck. Ash however was willing to take the risk life and limb if it meant protecting his friend. He shut his eyes tightly and awaited for the imminent pain to arrive as Mightyena's Crunch finally closed in and reached Ash's arms.

But the pain did not come. In fact, Ash felt nothing whatsoever. Why didn't he feel any pain from the Crunch attack? It was too late for the Mightyena to cancel its attack even if it wanted to.

Ash slowly opened his eyes. He turned to see Macy to make sure if she was alright. But when he saw her, the expression on her face changed. Instead of fear and horror, there was now pure awe and amazement in her eyes. Ash turned his head in the other direction and sees the same expressions on everybody else, including the Pokémon and the pack.

'Why is everyone looking at me like that?' He wondered in confusion.

He looked in front of himself... and gasped.

The Shiny Mightyena leader was being held back in midair by a large, circular force field right in front of Ash. At first, he thought it was his aura, but when he notices the turquoise color on the force field instead of the usual deep-blue, he knew it was something else. He also notices that both of his arms were glowing in the same turquoise color as the force field.

"Am I... doing this?" He awed.

It didn't take long for everyone to figure out what was happening.

"Is Ash using.... Protect?" muttered Cameron.
"It sure looks like Protect." Said Giselle.
"But that would mean that..." Barry started.

"Ash is using Pokémon Sorcery!" Everyone concluded in unison.

Ash couldn't believe it. His first week in term and already he's casted his first spell. He remembered Whitney explaining the Protect spell during his first Normal class the other day, but he also remembered it would take some time before any of the students cast their first spell. Yet Ash is already casting the spell with ease.

'This is what Pokémon Sorcery is like? Amazing!' Ash thought.

The pack leader leapt back from Ash's spell and onto the ground. It growled angrily at the prince for blocking its attack. Ash lowered his arms and the Protect spell disappeared as well as the glow on his arms before facing Macy.

"Macy, are you okay?" He asked in concern.
"Uh-huh." Macy said with a nod while still in awe of Ash's actions.

Pikachu then ran to his master and jumped into his arms, relieved to see he's alright.

"Pikapi!" He squeaked.
"I'm alright, buddy." Ash assured with a smile.

The pack leader growled angrily again, impatient that the battle is being delayed.

"So you still wanna continue huh, Mightyena? Alright, bring it on! Let's finish this!" Ash said with a determined face.
"Pika!" Pikachu shouted with sparks emitting from his cheeks

Unknown to them, Macy's face changed. Her expression morphed from awe and amazement to pure captivation and admiration. Her cheeks had a pink hue and a smile grew on her face as her half-closed, dreamy eyes stared at the prince.

Suddenly, the young Litleo appeared and stood by Pikachu ready to battle.

"Litleo!" He growled at the Mightyena pack leader.
"You wanna fight too, Litleo?" Asked the prince.
"Leo!" The Lion Cub Pokémon bravely nodded with determination.

The Pyroar mother and the male were completely amazed by the courage of their son. They knew their cub was brave but they didn't know he would have that much courage inside him. Now that they think about it, when they saw how Ash stood up against the Mightyena leader, it made them think that he has a heart and courage to match their own.

The pack leader growled before it began to charge towards the prince and the two Pokémon.

"Alright. Pikachu, Litleo, give it everything you've got!" Ash shouted.

Pikachu charged up and unleashed a massive Thunderbolt while Litleo, with all the courage inside, prepared for an Ember attack. But to his surprise, he fired a Flamethrower instead. The attacks combined and collided with the pack leader and halting its charge. It loudly growled in extreme pain as it got hit by both electricity and fire. The power became too great, it exploded and sent the pack leader flying far, far away into the horizon. The rest of the Mightyena gawked in horror seeing their leader defeated and sent flying. They slowly turned their heads in fear towards the prince and the two Pokémon.

"So... who's next?" Ash smirked.

The pack yelped and ran away in retreat and fear, never to be seen again.

"Alright!" the prince cheered. "We won!"
"Pi-Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked while jumping in victory.
"Litleo!" Litleo joyously added.

The rest of the group and their Pokémon joined in the cheering while the Pyroars gave of roars in victory.

"You were incredible, Pikachu." Ash praised before petting Pikachu by the ears.
“Chaaaaa!” Pikahcu chimed with a smile.
"And you too, Litleo. You're also an amazing Pokémon yourself." Ash said to the cub while petting his head as well.
"Leo!" Litleo said with a happy smile.

Unknown to them, Macy was staring directly at the prince with a dreamy and lovesick expression on her face.

'So brave, so courageous, so kind, so caring.... and so handsome!' She swooned in thought. 'I think... I think... I'm in love!!!'

Suddenly, Litleo's mother Pyroar pounced on her son and started nuzzling and smothering the cub with licks.

"Oh son! I'm so proud of you!" She praised while continuing her licks.
"Mom!" Litleo complained in embarrassment. "Mom, you're messing up my mane!"
The mother ceased her licking and smiled sweetly at her cub. Everyone chuckled seeing the love the Pyroar mother gave to Litleo.
'Heh, kinda reminds me of me with my mom back home.' The prince thought before turning to see Macy. "Are you alright, Macy?" He asked while not noticing the hearts in her eyes.

Instead of answering, Macy suddenly lunged at Ash and hugged him tightly.
"You saved my life, Ash!" She squealed. "How can I ever thank you?!"
"It was nothing." Ash said with a calm smile.
"My hero!" Macy praised before kissing him hard on the cheek with a loud smack. The kiss was so large, it left a moist on Ash's cheek in the shape of Macy's lips. Miette and Giselle puffed their cheeks in jealousy at the sight while Anabel, Melody and Angie giggled in amusement. The boys however, face-palmed seeing Ash's blank expression after Macy's kiss.

"Ash is so dense." Whispered Barry.
"He sure is." Calem agreed.

Just then, the male Pyroar approached the prince and Macy broke her hug to give them space. Looking into his eyes, Ash could tell that something is on his mind.

"Pyroar, what is it?" He asked curiously.

The male Pyroar gave out a few calm growls as it spoke and made a few gestures towards the rest of the group. Anabel listened carefully before she began to translate.

"He's thanking us for defeating the Mightyena and saving his family. He's very grateful to us all." She said.
"Really?" Ash asked before smiling at Pyroar. "You don't have to thank us. We're just glad we came when we did. Though the one you should really thank is Litleo here. If he hadn't came to us in the first place, we wouldn't have come here and saved you all."

Litleo grinned at Ash's praise before he and his father smiled at each other. Pyroar then continued to give out some growls before placing a paw on Ash's shoulder.

"Oh my!" Anabel said in surprise.
"What is it?" Questioned Miette.
"Because of Ash's courage facing the Mightyena leader, Pyroar wishes to make him an honorary member of the pride." Anabel translated.
Ash felt surprised as he heard what Anabel said.

"Is that true, Pyroar? You really want me as part of your pride?" He asked. The said Pokémon nodded before the rest of the pride gathered close to the prince. Ash looked at all the faces of the Pyroars and Litleos surrounding him before he ginned.

"Well Pyroar, if you insist, then it'll be my honor!" He accepted with determination.

The male Pyroar smiled before he and the rest of the pride gave out loud roars and breathed out Flamethrowers high into the sky while the Litleos attempted roars themselves in a cute manner and shot Embers into the sky.

Just then, Ash felt a tug on his leg and looked to see the Litleo he and his friends encountered.

"Litleo, what is it?" He asked curiously.
"Litleo!" The cub replied before he pounced into Ash's arms and nuzzled him against his chest. "Leo leo, lit lit litleo!" He continued with a pleading look in his eyes.

Ash looked into the cub's eyes and understood what he wanted.

"I see, you wanna come with me and join my team." He guessed. "Is that what you want?"
"Leo!" Litleo replied with a smile, confirming the prince's hunch.
"But Litleo, what about your family?" Cameron asked.
"Arre." Riolu added.

Litleo jumped back down to the ground and approached his parents. After a few seconds of conversing, both parents smiled in understanding and nuzzled their son.

"It looks like Pyroar understands Litleo's decision to go with Ash." Brendan figured.
"And they sure seem proud of him." Added Melody.
"Well, I read that when the time comes, Litleo would one day leave their pride to live on their own. And it looks like this Litleo wants to be with Ash." Angie informed.
The cub returned to Ash and gave him another pleading look.
"Well Litleo," Ash began with a kind smile. "If you want me to be your trainer, then welcome to the group!"
"Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked happily to welcome the newest member of the family.
"Litleo!" The cub cheered before it leapt into Ash arms in a hug and licked him on the cheek in affection.

Just then, Ash's Pokégem shook all of his Pokémon came out to happily welcome the newest member. As Litleo greeted his many new friends, Ash's Infernape picked up the cub and held him up in the air.

"Let's hear it for Litleo!" He praised.
"Hip-Hip-Hooray!" The Pokémon cheered.

After saying goodbye to the Pyroar Pride and capturing Litleo in his Pokégem, we now find Prince Ash and the gang walking through the forest back to the academy as the sun sets. While everyone is happy for their new captures today, they all have one thing in their minds that still amazed them.

"Boy, what a day." Said Ritchie."
"Pika." Sparky nodded.
"Sure was." Said Calem. "We all caught new Pokémon, we saved a pride of Pyroar from some Mightena and Ash actually did his first spell in Pokémon Sorcery. Quite a way to end our first week at school, huh?"
"Speaking of spells, Ash, that was amazing!" Cameron commented. "You actually casted your first spell!"
Arre!" Riolu agreed.
"I know. I still couldn't believe it myself." Ash replied.
"So Ash, how did you do it?" Barry questioned. "How were you able to cast a Protect spell?"
"Yeah, what was it like?" added Miette.

The prince took a moment to think before answering.

"Honestly, I'm not sure." He said while looking at his arms that once glowed. "When the shiny Mightyena was heading towards me with its Crunch attack, all I could think about was protecting Macy from any harm. I just closed my eyes and kept repeating to myself in my head. 'Protect Macy. Protect Macy. Protect Macy.' I didn't even care if Mightyena would get my arm and rip it off as long as it meant protecting my friend. And that's when it happened."
"Just like that?" Anabel questioned.
"Well that sure is strange." Said Angie.
"I hope I'll be able to cast my first spells soon." Said Giselle.
"Yeah, me too." Added Brendan.

Macy meanwhile felt her heart melting hearing the prince saying that he was willing to protect her from danger.

"So Ash, do you think you can do it again?" asked Cameron.
"I don't know. To be honest, I'm thinking that maybe it was just luck that I did the spell. But there's only one way to find out." Ash said before he and the rest stopped in their tracks.

He took a deep breath, moved his arms in defensive position just as before and closed his eyes. He concentrated for a few seconds and just like last time, his arms glowed turquoise and the circular force field appeared in front of him once more. The group breathed in awe at the spell before Ash returned to his normal position and the force field vanished.

"Well it's official, I just casted my first spell!" He cheered.
"Pi-Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked.

Ten minutes later, the group made it back to the academy where the rest of the students are arriving from different different directions. As the entered the grounds they all heard a familiar voice.

"Hello there, everyone!"

The group turned to see the headmaster smiling and waving at them."

"Headmaster Sycamore, good to see you." The prince greeted.
"So, I take it you all had a marvelous time today on the island?" Sycamore asked.
"We sure did!" Angie replied. "We all caught new Pokémon!"
"Wonderful! More Pokémon to share marvelous memories with." Sycamore chuckled with pride. "Well done!"
"And there's more, sir!" Cameron said excitedly.
"Oh? Like what?" The headmaster asked curiously.

The group then turned their heads toward the prince.

"Well Ash? Tell him!" Barry said.
"Uh... well." Ash began with an embarrassed grin and a sweatdrop.

And so, Ash explained of what happened with the Pyroar and Mightyena. When Sycamore hear of how Ash casted the Protect spell, he was beside himself.

"Is this true?!" He asked in shock. "You've actually casted your first spell?!"
"It's true, sir." The prince replied. "Look."

Once again he summoned the turquoise force field and amazed the headmaster.

"Marvelous!" He happily said. "You've only finished your first week of term, yet you managed to know your first spell! Usually, it takes about a month or two before students can cast their first spells."
"That long?!" the group said in surprise.

Now Ash is really surprised. If the headmaster said that it takes a student about a month or two to cast their first spells, why was he able cast his in a week? And if Protect was his first spell, who knows what his next spell will be?

"Well Ash, it seems to me that you're well on your way to becoming a fine Pokémon Sorcerer." Sycamore said while smiling. "Keep on studying and you'll cast your next spell in no time."
"You can count on me, headmaster!" Ash said with determination.
"Pika!" Pikachu added.
"Well, I'll leave you all to enjoy the rest of the evening. Don't forget that tomorrow is Sunday, You're all to sleep early for classes on Monday. Understood?" Sycamore said to the group.
"We will!" they replied and with that, the headmaster left.

Just then, Macy wrapped her arms around Ash's.

"Oh Ash, I really should thank you for saving my life back there!" She praised.
"Really Macy, it was nothing." Ash replied.
"But still, I owe you my life! I just love the quietly heroic and compassionate type!" She said with her eyes gleaming. "Say, how about we have dinner at the great hall? I can feed you."
"Yeah Ash, join us for dinner at the great hall." Giselle said seductively while tugging on his other arm.
"Uh..." Ash stuttered before...
"AAHHHH!!!" Cameron screamed.
"What's with you, Cameron?" asked Melody
"I just remembered, Ash and I have a report to do for Clay's Ground class!" Cameron exclaimed.
"I forgot! This report is due on Monday!" Ash added. "Sorry, but I gotta go study. Maybe some other time, so I'll see ya later!" With that said, the prince, Cameron and their Pokémon ran off to the school's library for their studying.

Giselle puffed her cheeks in disappointment. Macy however doesn't feel disappointed at all that she won't get to feed her princely knight in shining armor. She completely understood his motives and will wait for another chance. While the rest of the girls giggled, the boys groaned once more at Ash's denseness.

"Bye!" She called while waving and smiling. "Hey Ash, maybe one day, you can take me out... on a date 'kay?"

In the academy's library, the prince was studying for his report with Pikachu by his side and Cameron and Riolu nearby. It was quite a day indeed for the Kanto Prince. He befriended and caught a Litleo and casted his first spell, With his first week at the academy complete, Ash has taken an unexpected great step to becoming a Sorcerer. Though the road may be long, Ash is determined that nothing will stand in his way to achieving his goal. Yet despite all that and while he's determined to focus and do the best he can, he only has one curious thought on his mind.

'I wonder how Mom, Serena and everyone else are doing back home.'

As the journey continues.

Description
As always, I do not own Pokémon, Nintendo or the characters included in this story.

Chapter 4: The Courageous Cub

It is the first Friday of term and everyone in the academy is looking forward to enjoying the upcoming weekend. Prince Ash and his roommates have planned to explore the wilderness of Celesta Island to catch any wild Pokémon they could find. We now find the prince exiting his final class of the week along with Barry and the rest of their classmates while the bells sounded the end of class.

"Finally!" Exclaimed Barry as he and Ash walked down the halls with the other students. "I thought the bell would never ring!."
"Aw, c'mon, Barry, Ice class hasn't been boring at all. You were enjoying it as much as I did." Commented Ash.
"I'm not saying that it was boring. I'm saying that the bell took so long to ring! Not to mention that it was freezing in there!" Barry replied.
"Well, I gotta agree with ya on that. But boy, our teacher, Lorelei sure is something huh?" Ash said. "I'm still amazed of the way she showed up to class. Her appearing in a spiral of snow as a human-sized ice shard coming out of the ground and shaping itself into her human form. It was like seeing an ice sculpture before becoming flesh and blood. Wait till I write to my handmaiden, Misty about this. She's gonna be so jealous when she hears that Lorelei is my teacher."
"Whaddya mean?" asked Barry. "Does she specialize in Ice types too?"
"Well, not really. It's just that Misty is just crazy about Water Pokémon. You should've seen her face the day I caught my Oshawott. She wouldn't stop squealing on how absolutely adorable he is. Apparently, she really idolizes Lorelei. I heard from back home that a she's also a very skilled Water Pokémon trainer despite specializing in Ice and goes by her nickname, Prima. But I had no Idea that she would be teaching here. When Misty reads my next letter and learns about Lorelei, I'll bet she'll go ballistic."
"Wow. She sure must REALLY love Water Pokémon." Said Barry.
"You have no idea." Said Ash. "Though it's an entirely different story when it comes to Bug types. She's completely afraid of Bug Pokémon. She sees so much as a Caterpie, a Nincada or even a Sewadle, she screams at the top of her lungs and runs away in fright."
"Yikes. So I guess when it comes to bugs, this Misty's a complete chicken." laughed Barry.
"Funny thing. Tracey, the royal artist said something like that one time and Misty stomped on his foot in anger." Ash said with a nervous chuckle. "And I'll bet one of my other handmaidens, Iris wouldn't feel too comfortable around Lorelei or any of the other Ice teachers here."
"How come?" Barry asked again.
"Iris LOVES Dragon types and is about as afraid of Ice types like Misty is to Bugs. Since Ice is strong against Dragon, she's pretty much scared of any Ice Pokémon that comes by. Whether it's either a powerful and intimidating Beartic or an Abomasnow, or even cute and harmless Snover or a Smoochuml, Iris freaks out and would climb up a tree to hide. Heck, she's even afraid of my Glalie and May's Glaceon."
"Wow, this Iris sure has a serious issue with Ice types." Barry awed.

The two made their way to one of the school courtyards where they regrouped with the rest of their roommates and Ash called back his Pokémon.

"So, now that the weekend has arrived, where should we head off tomorrow to catch some Pokémon?" Asked Ritchie.
"This island is pretty huge. There's way too many places to look for just one day let alone the weekend." said Barry.
"Well, we could check out the nearby caves." Calem suggested. "There might be some Pokémon in there."
"Or we could check one of the forests." said Cameron. "It's bound to have plenty of good ones there too."
"Arre." Riolu barked.
"Sounds good to me." Agreed Ash.
"Pika!" Pikachu added.
"Me too!" Said Brendan.
Same here!" said Barry.
Calem decided to give in since he's pretty much outvoted from the rest of his roommates.
"Alright guys. You win. The forest it is." He said.

"Can we come too?" A voice asked.

The boys turned to see Angie, with her Shinx and her roommates, Melody, Giselle, Macy, Miette and Anabel standing behind Ash.

"Oh, hi, girls." he greeted. "You say you wanna come with us?"
"Of course we do." Giselle replied. "It'll be fun. And we could probably have a picnic for lunch." She then approached Ash with a flirty look "Not to mention that it could be dangerous with some pretty scary Pokémon out there. I'm sure someone as strong as you could protect us, Ash."
"But don't you have your own Pokémon to protect you?" Ash asked, not noticing the brunette's tease.
"Sure, but I'm sure YOUR Pokémon could provide extra help." Giselle cooed.
"Yeah, Ash. Surely a very brave and especially handsome prince like you must have some strong Pokémon to help out." Miette teased as she clasped Ash's hands and batted her eyes. "So can we come too? Pleeeeeeaaaaasssssse?
"Sure, why not?" Ash replied with a smile. "The more the merrier. Right, Pikachu?"
Pika pika!" Pikachu agreed.
"YAY!" The girls cheered.
"Um, Ash? Can we talk?" asked Cameron as he palmed Ash's shoulder from behind.
"Ok." The prince obliged.
"Excuse us girls, for one moment, please." Ritchie requested.

Ash then approached his roommates where they formed a huddle.

"Ash, you sure it's a good idea to have the girls come with us tomorrow?" Whispered Cameron.
"Why not?" Ash whispered back. "Is something wrong?"
"It's just that, haven't you noticed the way Giselle and Miette were acting around you just now? They're flirting with ya." Said Calem.
"Huh? Flirting? What are you talking about?" Ash asked confusedly making the others groan.
"Boy, are you dense." Mulled Brendan.
"Aw, come on guys. What harm could it do to bring them along? And besides, like Barry said, the island is pretty huge. I'm guessing that the forests could be huge too. If we bring them along, they could pretty much help us out. With the twelve of us and our Pokémon, we'll have no problem." Ash pointed out.

The boys thought for a moment about Ash's words.

"He's got a point there." Said Barry.
"And a good one I'd say." Added Brendan.
"I guess you're right." Said Calem.
"Yeah." Ritchie agreed. "We'll really need all the help we can get if we wanna find and catch some Pokémon."
"Pika." Sparky nodded.
"And if they mentioned a picnic, that's good enough for me." said Cameron.
"Arre." Riolu barked.
"So it's decided. The girls are coming with us. Agreed?" Ash asked.
"Agreed." the others replied with a nod.

The boys broke from their huddle and faced the girls.

"Alright girls, we head out to the forest tomorrow after breakfast." Ash said. "Is that okay with you?"
"Absolutely!" The girls replied while smiling.
"Okay. So we'll see you later." Ash said.

And with that being made, the two groups parted to enjoy the rest of the day.

(The next morning)

Ash and his roommates didn't waste any time after breakfast to head out to the courtyard to wait for the others. It wasn't long before the girls arrived with picnic baskets and soon, the group left the academy grounds and off into the forests of the island. They searched for hours and so far, Ritchie captured a Tailow which he nicknamed Rose, Miette caught a male Meowstic, Cameron caught a Ducklett, Macy caught a Numel, Brendan captured an Aron, Calem, a Skiddo, Barry, a Heracross, Angie, a Ledyba, Melody, a Purrloin, Anabel, an Abra and Giselle, a Carbink. Ash however, is the only one of the group who hasn't caught anything yet, but that hasn't broken his spirit yet. We now find the group having their picnic in a nearby open field.

"Here, Ash. I baked these last night especially for you." Miette cooed as she handed the prince a yellow macaron from her basket.
"Mmm. Hey these are pretty tasty Miette." Ash said after taking a bite. "You did a great job."
"Why thank you!" Miette thanked with a giggle.
'Hmmm. Miette's macarons are really good, but I think Serena's macarons are the best in my opinion.' Ash thought as he ate.
"Hey, this one looks tasty." Brendan said as he picks up a spiky red one.
"Oh no!" Miette panicked. "Don't eat that! That's not a macaron! That's-"

But it was too late. Brendan took a bite and in an instant... breathed fire out of his mouth!

"One of my Tamato berry Poképuffs." Miette mumbled.
"AAAHHHHHH! HOT! HOT! HOT!" he screamed.
"Quick Ducklett, use water gun!" Cameron commanded as he called out his new Ducklett out of his Pokégem. Ducklett appeared and fired a stream of water from its bill. The water hits Brendan's burning mouth squarely and extinguishes it.
"Whew. Much better." He breathed in relief. "Thanks, Ducklett."
"Ducklett!" The Wild Bird Pokémon replied with a smile before Cameron returned it.
"So Ash, you're pretty much the only one of us who hasn't caught any Pokémon today." said Calem.
"That's alright." Ash replied. "If I don't catch any Pokémon today, there's always tomorrow or next weekend. I'm patient. I'm in no-"

Ash couldn't finish when he suddenly felt a source of aura close by. And it was weakening.

"Ash? What's wrong?" Melody asked in concern.
"I don't know." he said as he grasped his head. "I just sensed something close by. I think... I think there's a Pokémon that's badly hurt."
"Hold on, you're SENSING an injured Pokémon?" asked Angie. "That's ridiculous."
"No wait, I think he's right." said Anabel as she stood up.
"What do you mean, Anabel?" Questioned Giselle.
"All of a sudden, I hear a voice in my head, calling for help. And I can also hear some other voices and they sound more aggressive towards the first one." Anabel explained.
"Whoa. What, are you psychic like Ms. Sabrina of Psychic class?" asked Barry.
"Well... yes, as a matter of fact." she answered calmly.

Before anyone could react...

"Guys, look!" Ritchie shouted.

The others looked to where Ritchie was pointing and gasped.

A short distance away in the field, they could see the small silhouette of a Pokémon being chased from a group of larger silhouettes flying in the air. Though they couldn't make out what Pokémon is the small silhouette, the larger ones are easily identified as a flock of Mandibuzz. They appear to be chasing the smaller figure and attacking it with numerous Dark Pulses. The group watched in horror as the flock's attacks struck the small figure and injuring it even more. One Mandibuzz flapped her wings unleashing a Whirlwind attack, sending the smaller figure into the air, while another Mandibuzz fired her Dark Pulse right at it, resulting in a small explosion. The figure went limp as it fell hard to the ground and moved no more. The Mandibuzz cawed in victory as they flew in circles above their victim, preparing to feast on their weakened prey. Ash couldn't take it anymore. He won't sit around and watch this Pokémon suffer and become a victim to those Mandibuzz.

"That does it!" He shouted angrily as he sprang to his feet and ran towards the scene.
"Ash! What are you doing?!" Miette exclaimed.
The prince didn't listen as he brought out his Pokégem.

"Oshawott! Pignite! Stop those Mandibuzz!" He commanded as he threw his Pokégem in the air and the said Pokémon came out and ran towards the scene. Pignite allowed Oshawott to hop on its shoulder for a ride.
"Pikachu, go help them out!" Ash said to his partner.
"Pika!' Pikachu acknowledged as he ran towards the other two and joined Oshawott on riding Pignite.

The Mandibuzz soon landed and surrounded their fallen victim with hunger in their eyes.

"Lunch time, girls!" One of them said. Before their beaks could even touch the body...

"CHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

The Mandibuzz turned their heads to see Pignite, Oshawott and Pikachu charging towards them until...

CRASH!!!

Pikachu and Oshawott sprang off of Pignite's shoulders and attacked the Bone Vulture Pokémon in different directions.

"Get out! Get out! Get outta here!!!" Oshawott angrily yelled as he struck them with his Razor Shell.
"Eat this!" Pignite shouted as he hits them with Brick Break.
"Oh no ya don't!"Pikachu said while firing thunderbolts at the Mandibuzz trying to fight back from above.
"Retreat!!!" One Mandibuzz shouted before she and the others flew away from the trio.
"Woohoo! We did it!" Pignite cheered.
"Haha! Look at 'em go!" Pikachu laughed.
"That's right! Fly away, ya cowards!" Oshawott shouted as he threw his scalchop in the air. It only flew a few feet above and it landed with a thud near his feet. "And stay out! Stinkin', greedy Mandibuzzes! You could at least wait til he's dead!" He shouted in anger once more before turning to the others with a look of worry. "He's not dead, is he?"

Pikachu and Pignite were inspecting the injured Pokémon. Its paw was covering its face as it lay on the ground.

"No." Pignite answered. "But You better come look. I think he's out cold."
"Alrighty. What do we got here?" Oshawott pondered as he approached the Pokémon. He and Pikachu lifted the paw to reveal its face.

It appeared to be a feline Pokémon. It is mostly dark brown in color with pale brown paws, ears, tail tip, and face. The tail ends in a pointed, teardrop shape. The muzzle is short with a reddish orange nose and round ears. Finally, there is a reddish orange tuft of fur between the ears

"A Litleo." Oshawott said.
"Now what would a fella like him would be doing out here in the first place?" Pignite wondered.
"I don't know, but right now I think we should get him back to Ash and the others." Pikachu suggested. "He's badly hurt."

Pignite picked up the unconcious Litleo and carried him back to his trainer with Oshawott and Pikachu in tow.

"Great work, guys." He congratulated before taking the Litleo from Pignite's arms. The others then approached the prince to see what's in his possession.

"A Litleo!" Giselle gasped while Ash gently places him on the ground.
"Oh, the poor little Fire type." said Macy.
"There's gotta be something we can do!" Cameron panicked.
"I think there should be some shrubs nearby with berries that might help." suggested Anabel. "We'll cover more ground if we split up."
"Then lets get going!" Ash declared before facing his Pokémon. "Pikachu, you, Oshawott and Pignite stay here and watch over Litleo while we're gone. We'll be back soon."

The three said Pokémon nodded and with that, Ash and the gang ran off in different directions across the field to begin their search for berries.

Minutes have passed as Pikachu, Oshawott and Pignite waited for the humans to return. Just then, they heard a moan from behind. They turned to see Litleo coming around.

"Ugh. My head." He moaned.
"You okay, kid?" Pikachu asked in concern.
"I... I guess so." Litleo replied weakly =.
"You nearly died!" Pignite told him.
"I saved you!" Oshawott declared proudly as he tapped his scalchop. This however earned him a fiery snort from an irritated Pignite and a slap at the back of his head from Pikachu's tail. "Well, my friends helped." He corrected. "... A little."
"Thanks." Litleo said with a groan.
"Try not to move so much." Pignite said. "You're still badly hurt."
"But don't worry, our trainer will be back soon with his friends with some berries to help you out." Pikachu assured.
"Trainer? As in... a human?" Litleo asked before they nodded. "Then maybe you guys can help me out."
"Help? Help with what?" Oshawott questioned.

Litleo was about to answer when...

"HEY GUYS!"

The Pokémon turned their heads to see Prince Ash and the others along with Sparky, Shinx, and Riolu returning with berries in their arms. Once they arrived, they wasted no time in handing the berries to Litleo. The Lion Cub Pokémon ate and was soon healed of his injuries.

"Well you seem better now huh, little guy?" Ash asked kindly.
"Leo leo!" Litleo cheered happily before he came up to Ash and nuzzled against his arm.
"Awwww! How sweet!" Macy smiled. "Litleo likes you, Ash!"
"Yeah, he sure does." Ash chuckled. "So, what were you doing out here in the first place?"
"Lit leo leo leo Lit lit leo!" Litleo said.
"Did any of you guys get that?" Calem asked in confusion.

Most of the others shook their heads while...

"I did." Anabel replied.
"You have?!" the others exclaimed in amazement.
"Yes. You see, I was born with not only the ability to understand Pokémon, but to communicate with them as well." Anabel explained.
"Wow, that's amazing!" Angie complimented to her roommate.
"So what did Litleo say?" Brendan asked.
"It doesn't sound good." Anabel said with a grim tone. "Apparently, his pride has been attacked by a pack of Mightyena last night. There were too many for the Pyroar to fight back, so now they're prisoners to the Mightyena, being forced to do whatever their leader commands. Litleo here was the only one who escaped and was seeking help before he was attacked by the Mandibuzz."
"Is this true, Litleo?" Macy asked. "You were looking for help to save your family from the Mightyena?"
"Litleo!" the cub nodded.

The group stayed silent for a moment after hearing to Anabel's translation.

"So, what should we do?" Angie asked
"What do you mean what should we do?!" Ash replied. The others turned to see Ash with a determined face. "We can't just sit around and let this pack of Mightyena take over Litleo's pride! I say we should help! Are ya with me, Pikachu?"
"Pika!" Pikachu agreed with confidence.
"Ash is right, we have to help!" Said Ritchie.
"Pikachu!" Sparky squeaked in agreement.
"I'm in!" Cameron volunteered.
"Arre!" Riolu barked.
"Me too!" added Macy.

Soon everyone else agreed to help out. Litleo couldn't believe it. He went out to find help to save his pride and now this boy who saved him is more than willing to do so along with his friends. Hope has returned for the cub.

"Well Litleo, you know the way back to your home, you lead." Ash advised.

Litleo nodded and started to run the other direction. The gang packed up their picnic and began to follow the cub to save its pride.

The gang followed for what seemed like an hour. Finally, they arrived at what appears to be a beautiful savanna. It didn't take long for them to spot Litleo's pride and just like the cub said, they were being held captive by the pack of Mightyenas. The female Pyroars were bringing scraps of food to the pack to eat, leaving nothing for the pride as the lone male could do nothing but watch.

"This doesn't make any sense." whispered Calem as he and the others crouched behind a hill. "Pyroars are strong and brave. Why would they just let the Mightyena boss them around like that?"
"I think that's why." Giselle figured while pointing.

The gang looked and they see to their horror, some more Mightyena holding some more Litleos as hostages.

"So that's it." Growled Ritchie. "The Mightyena are threatening to hurt the Litleo if the Pyroar don't do as they say."
"This is awful!" Angie exclaimed quietly. "We have to do something!"
"Anyone got a plan?" Brendan asked. "What about you, Ash?"

Silence ensued.

"Ash?" Brendan asked once more before turning to see Ash not there.

"Where did he go?" Calem pondered.
"There he is!" Ritchie exclaimed while pointing.

The group looked at the bottom of the hill to see Ash, Pikachu, and Litleo marching towards the Mightyena.

"What is he doing?!" Giselle panicked. "Is he crazy?!"
"Is he trying to get himself killed?!" Barry panicked.
"He must be out of his mind to head towards that pack." said Calem.
"Oh wow. Ash is so brave." Awed Miette.
"Well I don't know about all of you, but I'm going with Ash on this one!" Said Ritchie. "If he's going to fight the Mightyena and save the Pyroar and Litleo, then so am I!"
"Pikachu!" Sparky agreed before be and his trainer ran down the hill to follow Prince Ash.

The Mightyena pack were enjoying their new luxury with the Pyroar slaving for them when they were approached by Ash, Pikachu, and Litleo. Immediately, the Mightyena glared and growled angrily at the intruders.

"Mightyena, knock it off!" The prince yelled. "You have no right to take the Pyroar's home and force them to serve you!"
"Pika! Pika-pikachu!" Pikachu added.
"Leo! Litleo!" Litleo growled.

The Mightyena continued to growl and snarl angrily at the intruders while the Pyroar and Litleo stared in amazement. They were amazed that a human would come to stop the Mightyena and save their pride. One of the females noticed the cub by Ash and immediately her eyes widened. She felt a great wave of relief seeing her son safe and sound thanks to this human. The same can be said for her other two cubs witnessing the scene and the lone male Pyroar.

The Mightyena suddenly ceased their snarling. Ritchie and Sparky caught up to Ash as they watched.

"What's up with them?" He asked.
"Beats me." Ash said with a shrug.

The pack then parted to reveal another Mightyena approaching. Unlike the others, instead of black and gray fur, this one had golden and brown fur and blue eyes and nose instead of red. The Mightyena also had a little X-shaped scar on its forehead.

"A Shiny Mightyena!" Awed Melody as she and the rest of the group reached Ash and Ritchie.
"Must be the leader of the pack." Brendan guessed.
"Mightyena, leave the Pyroar and Litleo alone!" Ash demanded "You can't just take their home and make them your slaves!"

The lead Mightyena barked in reply.

"He says that we should mind our own business. They can do what they want, whenever they want and more importantly however they want." Anabel translated.
"How rude!" Macy scoffed.
"Well if we can't convince them, then we'll just have to fight them!" Ash declared before bringing out his Pokégem.
"Pikachu!" Pikachu agreed while emitting sparks from his cheeks.
"Litleo!" The cub Pokémon said as he prepared to fight.
"I agree!" added Ritchie.
"Pika!" Sparky said.
"I'm in!" Macy volunteered.
"Me too!" Said Calem.

One by one, the entire group brought out their Pokégems and prepared for battle. The Mightyena bared their fangs and readied their claws at each of the Pokémon brought out. Barry's Heracross, Sparky, Calem's Chesnaught, Brendan's Swampert, Cameron's Riolu, Anabel's Espeon, Angie's Shinx, Macy's Numel, Giselle's Cubone, Miette's Slurpuff, and Melody's Purrloin all joined the Prince's Pikachu. Both sides charged towards the other as battle began.

Pikachu and Sparky electrocuted some with their Thunderbolts. Heracross took out a couple with his Megahorn and with intense damage. Chesnaught blocked several Mightyena with Spiky Shield while also fighting back with Needle Arm. Swampert fired several Mud Shots. Riolu blasts one with Force Palm before taking on another with Circle Throw. Anabel's Espeon, despite being a Psychic type fought the Mightyena that were guarding the Litleo hostages with attacks like Quick Attack, Iron Tail and Zap Cannon. Shinx bit one with Thunder Fang. Numel scorched a couple with Flamethrower. Cubone whacked several with Bone Club. Slurpuff devastated a couple with Fairy Wind. Purrloin fought one with Slash. And the Young Litleo cub bravely took on one with his Ember.

The Pyroar couldn't believe their eyes. Seeing a bunch of young humans showing up to save them from the tyranny of the Mightyena pack truly is unbelievable. They thought humans couldn't care less about helping out wild Pokémon like them. Yet right before their very eyes, they're actually seeing humans wanting to help save them. This is their chance to fight back and be free. With a mighty roar, the male Pyroar rallied the females and charged into the fray.

"Look!" Calem shouted. "The Pyroar are fighting back!"
Alright!" Ash cheered. "Reinforcements! We can win this!"

Unknown to everyone, the shiny lead Mightyena sneaked away from the battle and prowled towards Macy. She was too busy being focused on the battle that she doesn't even notice the impending danger. Prince Ash however, sensed the pack leader's aura. He turns around to see it creeping towards the girl from behind.

"MACY, LOOK OUT!!!" Ash shouted before he started sprinting towards her.

The battle ceased and everyone turned to see what was happening. Macy turned and gasped in horror as the shiny Mightyena pounced from the ground and into the air with it's fangs bared.

Everything happened in slow motion. The humans, their Pokémon and the Pyroar gasped in horror as the lead Mightyena closed in on its victim as its fangs began to glow white for a devastating Crunch attack at Macy's face while the rest of the pack deviously grinned for their leader. Macy couldn't move out of fear seeing her impeding doom closing in. Suddenly, Prince Ash appeared. He stood in front of Macy and moved both of his arms in front of his face in a defensive position. Macy couldn't believe it. Prince Ash is risking his life to protect her from Mightyena's Crunch and all she could do is watch in horror as her savior is about to be struck. Ash however was willing to take the risk life and limb if it meant protecting his friend. He shut his eyes tightly and awaited for the imminent pain to arrive as Mightyena's Crunch finally closed in and reached Ash's arms.

But the pain did not come. In fact, Ash felt nothing whatsoever. Why didn't he feel any pain from the Crunch attack? It was too late for the Mightyena to cancel its attack even if it wanted to.

Ash slowly opened his eyes. He turned to see Macy to make sure if she was alright. But when he saw her, the expression on her face changed. Instead of fear and horror, there was now pure awe and amazement in her eyes. Ash turned his head in the other direction and sees the same expressions on everybody else, including the Pokémon and the pack.

'Why is everyone looking at me like that?' He wondered in confusion.

He looked in front of himself... and gasped.

The Shiny Mightyena leader was being held back in midair by a large, circular force field right in front of Ash. At first, he thought it was his aura, but when he notices the turquoise color on the force field instead of the usual deep-blue, he knew it was something else. He also notices that both of his arms were glowing in the same turquoise color as the force field.

"Am I... doing this?" He awed.

It didn't take long for everyone to figure out what was happening.

"Is Ash using.... Protect?" muttered Cameron.
"It sure looks like Protect." Said Giselle.
"But that would mean that..." Barry started.

"Ash is using Pokémon Sorcery!" Everyone concluded in unison.

Ash couldn't believe it. His first week in term and already he's casted his first spell. He remembered Whitney explaining the Protect spell during his first Normal class the other day, but he also remembered it would take some time before any of the students cast their first spell. Yet Ash is already casting the spell with ease.

'This is what Pokémon Sorcery is like? Amazing!' Ash thought.

The pack leader leapt back from Ash's spell and onto the ground. It growled angrily at the prince for blocking its attack. Ash lowered his arms and the Protect spell disappeared as well as the glow on his arms before facing Macy.

"Macy, are you okay?" He asked in concern.
"Uh-huh." Macy said with a nod while still in awe of Ash's actions.

Pikachu then ran to his master and jumped into his arms, relieved to see he's alright.

"Pikapi!" He squeaked.
"I'm alright, buddy." Ash assured with a smile.

The pack leader growled angrily again, impatient that the battle is being delayed.

"So you still wanna continue huh, Mightyena? Alright, bring it on! Let's finish this!" Ash said with a determined face.
"Pika!" Pikachu shouted with sparks emitting from his cheeks

Unknown to them, Macy's face changed. Her expression morphed from awe and amazement to pure captivation and admiration. Her cheeks had a pink hue and a smile grew on her face as her half-closed, dreamy eyes stared at the prince.

Suddenly, the young Litleo appeared and stood by Pikachu ready to battle.

"Litleo!" He growled at the Mightyena pack leader.
"You wanna fight too, Litleo?" Asked the prince.
"Leo!" The Lion Cub Pokémon bravely nodded with determination.

The Pyroar mother and the male were completely amazed by the courage of their son. They knew their cub was brave but they didn't know he would have that much courage inside him. Now that they think about it, when they saw how Ash stood up against the Mightyena leader, it made them think that he has a heart and courage to match their own.

The pack leader growled before it began to charge towards the prince and the two Pokémon.

"Alright. Pikachu, Litleo, give it everything you've got!" Ash shouted.

Pikachu charged up and unleashed a massive Thunderbolt while Litleo, with all the courage inside, prepared for an Ember attack. But to his surprise, he fired a Flamethrower instead. The attacks combined and collided with the pack leader and halting its charge. It loudly growled in extreme pain as it got hit by both electricity and fire. The power became too great, it exploded and sent the pack leader flying far, far away into the horizon. The rest of the Mightyena gawked in horror seeing their leader defeated and sent flying. They slowly turned their heads in fear towards the prince and the two Pokémon.

"So... who's next?" Ash smirked.

The pack yelped and ran away in retreat and fear, never to be seen again.

"Alright!" the prince cheered. "We won!"
"Pi-Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked while jumping in victory.
"Litleo!" Litleo joyously added.

The rest of the group and their Pokémon joined in the cheering while the Pyroars gave of roars in victory.

"You were incredible, Pikachu." Ash praised before petting Pikachu by the ears.
“Chaaaaa!” Pikahcu chimed with a smile.
"And you too, Litleo. You're also an amazing Pokémon yourself." Ash said to the cub while petting his head as well.
"Leo!" Litleo said with a happy smile.

Unknown to them, Macy was staring directly at the prince with a dreamy and lovesick expression on her face.

'So brave, so courageous, so kind, so caring.... and so handsome!' She swooned in thought. 'I think... I think... I'm in love!!!'

Suddenly, Litleo's mother Pyroar pounced on her son and started nuzzling and smothering the cub with licks.

"Oh son! I'm so proud of you!" She praised while continuing her licks.
"Mom!" Litleo complained in embarrassment. "Mom, you're messing up my mane!"
The mother ceased her licking and smiled sweetly at her cub. Everyone chuckled seeing the love the Pyroar mother gave to Litleo.
'Heh, kinda reminds me of me with my mom back home.' The prince thought before turning to see Macy. "Are you alright, Macy?" He asked while not noticing the hearts in her eyes.

Instead of answering, Macy suddenly lunged at Ash and hugged him tightly.
"You saved my life, Ash!" She squealed. "How can I ever thank you?!"
"It was nothing." Ash said with a calm smile.
"My hero!" Macy praised before kissing him hard on the cheek with a loud smack. The kiss was so large, it left a moist on Ash's cheek in the shape of Macy's lips. Miette and Giselle puffed their cheeks in jealousy at the sight while Anabel, Melody and Angie giggled in amusement. The boys however, face-palmed seeing Ash's blank expression after Macy's kiss.

"Ash is so dense." Whispered Barry.
"He sure is." Calem agreed.

Just then, the male Pyroar approached the prince and Macy broke her hug to give them space. Looking into his eyes, Ash could tell that something is on his mind.

"Pyroar, what is it?" He asked curiously.

The male Pyroar gave out a few calm growls as it spoke and made a few gestures towards the rest of the group. Anabel listened carefully before she began to translate.

"He's thanking us for defeating the Mightyena and saving his family. He's very grateful to us all." She said.
"Really?" Ash asked before smiling at Pyroar. "You don't have to thank us. We're just glad we came when we did. Though the one you should really thank is Litleo here. If he hadn't came to us in the first place, we wouldn't have come here and saved you all."

Litleo grinned at Ash's praise before he and his father smiled at each other. Pyroar then continued to give out some growls before placing a paw on Ash's shoulder.

"Oh my!" Anabel said in surprise.
"What is it?" Questioned Miette.
"Because of Ash's courage facing the Mightyena leader, Pyroar wishes to make him an honorary member of the pride." Anabel translated.
Ash felt surprised as he heard what Anabel said.

"Is that true, Pyroar? You really want me as part of your pride?" He asked. The said Pokémon nodded before the rest of the pride gathered close to the prince. Ash looked at all the faces of the Pyroars and Litleos surrounding him before he ginned.

"Well Pyroar, if you insist, then it'll be my honor!" He accepted with determination.

The male Pyroar smiled before he and the rest of the pride gave out loud roars and breathed out Flamethrowers high into the sky while the Litleos attempted roars themselves in a cute manner and shot Embers into the sky.

Just then, Ash felt a tug on his leg and looked to see the Litleo he and his friends encountered.

"Litleo, what is it?" He asked curiously.
"Litleo!" The cub replied before he pounced into Ash's arms and nuzzled him against his chest. "Leo leo, lit lit litleo!" He continued with a pleading look in his eyes.

Ash looked into the cub's eyes and understood what he wanted.

"I see, you wanna come with me and join my team." He guessed. "Is that what you want?"
"Leo!" Litleo replied with a smile, confirming the prince's hunch.
"But Litleo, what about your family?" Cameron asked.
"Arre." Riolu added.

Litleo jumped back down to the ground and approached his parents. After a few seconds of conversing, both parents smiled in understanding and nuzzled their son.

"It looks like Pyroar understands Litleo's decision to go with Ash." Brendan figured.
"And they sure seem proud of him." Added Melody.
"Well, I read that when the time comes, Litleo would one day leave their pride to live on their own. And it looks like this Litleo wants to be with Ash." Angie informed.
The cub returned to Ash and gave him another pleading look.
"Well Litleo," Ash began with a kind smile. "If you want me to be your trainer, then welcome to the group!"
"Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked happily to welcome the newest member of the family.
"Litleo!" The cub cheered before it leapt into Ash arms in a hug and licked him on the cheek in affection.

Just then, Ash's Pokégem shook all of his Pokémon came out to happily welcome the newest member. As Litleo greeted his many new friends, Ash's Infernape picked up the cub and held him up in the air.

"Let's hear it for Litleo!" He praised.
"Hip-Hip-Hooray!" The Pokémon cheered.

After saying goodbye to the Pyroar Pride and capturing Litleo in his Pokégem, we now find Prince Ash and the gang walking through the forest back to the academy as the sun sets. While everyone is happy for their new captures today, they all have one thing in their minds that still amazed them.

"Boy, what a day." Said Ritchie."
"Pika." Sparky nodded.
"Sure was." Said Calem. "We all caught new Pokémon, we saved a pride of Pyroar from some Mightena and Ash actually did his first spell in Pokémon Sorcery. Quite a way to end our first week at school, huh?"
"Speaking of spells, Ash, that was amazing!" Cameron commented. "You actually casted your first spell!"
Arre!" Riolu agreed.
"I know. I still couldn't believe it myself." Ash replied.
"So Ash, how did you do it?" Barry questioned. "How were you able to cast a Protect spell?"
"Yeah, what was it like?" added Miette.

The prince took a moment to think before answering.

"Honestly, I'm not sure." He said while looking at his arms that once glowed. "When the shiny Mightyena was heading towards me with its Crunch attack, all I could think about was protecting Macy from any harm. I just closed my eyes and kept repeating to myself in my head. 'Protect Macy. Protect Macy. Protect Macy.' I didn't even care if Mightyena would get my arm and rip it off as long as it meant protecting my friend. And that's when it happened."
"Just like that?" Anabel questioned.
"Well that sure is strange." Said Angie.
"I hope I'll be able to cast my first spells soon." Said Giselle.
"Yeah, me too." Added Brendan.

Macy meanwhile felt her heart melting hearing the prince saying that he was willing to protect her from danger.

"So Ash, do you think you can do it again?" asked Cameron.
"I don't know. To be honest, I'm thinking that maybe it was just luck that I did the spell. But there's only one way to find out." Ash said before he and the rest stopped in their tracks.

He took a deep breath, moved his arms in defensive position just as before and closed his eyes. He concentrated for a few seconds and just like last time, his arms glowed turquoise and the circular force field appeared in front of him once more. The group breathed in awe at the spell before Ash returned to his normal position and the force field vanished.

"Well it's official, I just casted my first spell!" He cheered.
"Pi-Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked.

Ten minutes later, the group made it back to the academy where the rest of the students are arriving from different different directions. As the entered the grounds they all heard a familiar voice.

"Hello there, everyone!"

The group turned to see the headmaster smiling and waving at them."

"Headmaster Sycamore, good to see you." The prince greeted.
"So, I take it you all had a marvelous time today on the island?" Sycamore asked.
"We sure did!" Angie replied. "We all caught new Pokémon!"
"Wonderful! More Pokémon to share marvelous memories with." Sycamore chuckled with pride. "Well done!"
"And there's more, sir!" Cameron said excitedly.
"Oh? Like what?" The headmaster asked curiously.

The group then turned their heads toward the prince.

"Well Ash? Tell him!" Barry said.
"Uh... well." Ash began with an embarrassed grin and a sweatdrop.

And so, Ash explained of what happened with the Pyroar and Mightyena. When Sycamore hear of how Ash casted the Protect spell, he was beside himself.

"Is this true?!" He asked in shock. "You've actually casted your first spell?!"
"It's true, sir." The prince replied. "Look."

Once again he summoned the turquoise force field and amazed the headmaster.

"Marvelous!" He happily said. "You've only finished your first week of term, yet you managed to know your first spell! Usually, it takes about a month or two before students can cast their first spells."
"That long?!" the group said in surprise.

Now Ash is really surprised. If the headmaster said that it takes a student about a month or two to cast their first spells, why was he able cast his in a week? And if Protect was his first spell, who knows what his next spell will be?

"Well Ash, it seems to me that you're well on your way to becoming a fine Pokémon Sorcerer." Sycamore said while smiling. "Keep on studying and you'll cast your next spell in no time."
"You can count on me, headmaster!" Ash said with determination.
"Pika!" Pikachu added.
"Well, I'll leave you all to enjoy the rest of the evening. Don't forget that tomorrow is Sunday, You're all to sleep early for classes on Monday. Understood?" Sycamore said to the group.
"We will!" they replied and with that, the headmaster left.

Just then, Macy wrapped her arms around Ash's.

"Oh Ash, I really should thank you for saving my life back there!" She praised.
"Really Macy, it was nothing." Ash replied.
"But still, I owe you my life! I just love the quietly heroic and compassionate type!" She said with her eyes gleaming. "Say, how about we have dinner at the great hall? I can feed you."
"Yeah Ash, join us for dinner at the great hall." Giselle said seductively while tugging on his other arm.
"Uh..." Ash stuttered before...
"AAHHHH!!!" Cameron screamed.
"What's with you, Cameron?" asked Melody
"I just remembered, Ash and I have a report to do for Clay's Ground class!" Cameron exclaimed.
"I forgot! This report is due on Monday!" Ash added. "Sorry, but I gotta go study. Maybe some other time, so I'll see ya later!" With that said, the prince, Cameron and their Pokémon ran off to the school's library for their studying.

Giselle puffed her cheeks in disappointment. Macy however doesn't feel disappointed at all that she won't get to feed her princely knight in shining armor. She completely understood his motives and will wait for another chance. While the rest of the girls giggled, the boys groaned once more at Ash's denseness.

"Bye!" She called while waving and smiling. "Hey Ash, maybe one day, you can take me out... on a date 'kay?"

In the academy's library, the prince was studying for his report with Pikachu by his side and Cameron and Riolu nearby. It was quite a day indeed for the Kanto Prince. He befriended and caught a Litleo and casted his first spell, With his first week at the academy complete, Ash has taken an unexpected great step to becoming a Sorcerer. Though the road may be long, Ash is determined that nothing will stand in his way to achieving his goal. Yet despite all that and while he's determined to focus and do the best he can, he only has one curious thought on his mind.

'I wonder how Mom, Serena and everyone else are doing back home.'

As the journey continues.