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As Gladion walked into his classroom with his Pokémon partner; Umbreon, his sister; Lillie, and her Vulpix; Snowy, they were immediately greeted by a very excited Mallow and her equally excited Bounsweet.
"What's gotten you and Bounsweet worked up?" Gladion asked, slightly amused by the green-headed girl’s giddiness. "Did you two accidentally discover a new recipe again?"
"Yes, but that's not the reason we're excited!" Mallow giggled. "We're getting a new student in our class!"
Gladion blinked in surprise. New student?
"Really?" Lillie asked, surprised. "This late in the school year?"
"Yes," Mallow said as Lana and Sophocles approached with their Pokémon partners, a Popplio and a Togedemaru. "I was walking past Principal Oak's office this morning. I heard him talking to Professor Kukui about a new student. I heard two other voices as well."
“What’s going on?"
Everyone turned to see Kiawe, another one of their classmates, walking into the classroom with his Pokémon partner, Turtonator, looking drained.
"Alola Kiawe!" Lillie waved. "Mallow says we're getting a new classmate. Are you okay? You look exhausted."
"Charizard and I had a massive delivery to Poni Island this morning," Kiawe yawned as he sat at his desk. "So, I had to get up a little earlier than usual. Thank Arceus Hapu had Poni Radishes for Charizard, otherwise we'd never get here."
"That sounds tiring," Sophocles said sympathetically.
"I'll be alright," Kiawe said with a smile. "But Charizard and I might have to skip our battle today, Gladion."
Gladion shrugged. "It's okay, I don't mind. Anyway, Mallow, do you know anything else about this new student?"
"Well, I heard a guy speaking in the office so it might be him," Mallow spoke eagerly. "I've heard him say that he's from the Kanto region and he's done a lot of travelling as a Pokémon Trainer. And that's all I heard before the bell rang."
"Travelling?" Lillie asked, her face lighting up. She had always wanted to travel.
"And he's also a trainer?" Kiawe added with interest. "Maybe we might get a new rival to have battles with, hey Gladion?"
Gladion shrugged his shoulders, smiling a little. He and Kiawe had a friendly but fierce rivalry and there was never a dull battle between them. But Kiawe did have a point. It would be nice to battle someone new.
"Alola!"
Everyone looked at the doorway to see their teacher, Professor Kukui, walking in with a boy who had shaggy, shoulder-length black hair under a red cap, bright brown eyes, and a friendly smile. On his right shoulder sat a Pikachu and in his arms was a little blue Kirlia, which was pretty rare. Gladion frowned. That Kirlia looked awfully familiar but he couldn't remember where he had seen it before.
"Alola!" Everyone chimed back.
"Class, this is Ash Ketchum and his Pokémon Pikachu and Kirlia," Kukui said with a smile as Ash bowed to the class. "He's going to be a part of our class starting today."
"Nice to meet you all," Ash smiled. "This is Pikachu and Kirlia."
"Pikachu!" Pikachu waved cheerfully.
"Kirlia," Kirlia waved more shyly.
"Nice to meet you," the class chimed as they got up to approach Ash.
"My name is Mallow," Mallow beamed before tilting her chin slightly at the little fruit Pokémon on her shoulder. "And this is Bounsweet."
"I'm Lana and this is Popplio," Lana added, nodding down at the sea lion Pokémon in her arms, who clapped her flippers.
"Kiawe and this is Turtonator." Kiawe pointed to his waving turtle Pokémon with his thumb.
"I'm Sophocles and this is Togedemaru." Sophocles held out his Roly-Poly Pokémon, who was beaming with excitement at Pikachu.
"I'm Lillie and this is Snowy," Lillie smiled, holding up her Vulpix, who squealed a greeting. "And this is my big brother Gladion and his Umbreon."
Gladion smiled and waved. Ash smiled back at him.
"Gladion?"
"Yes, Professor?"
"I want you to look after Ash," Kukui requested. "Give him a Helping Hand in settling until he catches up with the work."
"Okay," Gladion nodded before looking at Ash. "Let's get you a desk and chair."
Ash nodded as he kneeled to place Kirlia and Pikachu on the floor.
"Why don't you two go say hi to everyone?" he suggested to the two Polémon.
As Pikachu and Kirlia walked to the group to say hello, Gladion led Ash out of the classroom to a supply room filled with spare desks and chairs. As the two silently carried a desk back to the classroom, Gladion thought about the Kirlia that Ash had walked into the room with. The familiarity was bugging him. Where had he seen it before? After placing the desk next to Gladion's, Pikachu and Kirlia jumped onto the desk. As Pikachu cheered, Kirlia started to spin and giggle. Gladion's eyes widened. He remembered this Kirlia. It was one of the therapy Pokémon that belonged at the facility his parents co-owned. But why did Ash have it? Wait, did that mean...?
"Gladion?"
Gladion blinked to see Ash looking at him with concern.
"Are you okay?" he asked.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Gladion said with a smile. "Let's get your chair. The lessons will start soon."
"Right," Ash smiled as he and Gladion walked back to where the spare chairs were.
As Ash went to collect a chair, Gladion hovered in the doorway, wondering if he should ask such a personal question, especially since he and Ash had only just met. But what if he needed help? His parents always told him to help others whenever he could and Professor Kukui did request his help too. Taking a deep breath, he decided to take the Tauros by the horns and ask. And if the kid happened to tell him to mind his own business, then he’ll apologise and let it go.
"Um, Ash?" he said as Ash picked up a chair. "May I ask you something?"
"Sure," Ash smiled as he carried the chair to the door.
"The Kirlia you walked into the classroom with," Gladion said carefully, noticing that the moment he mentioned Kirlia, Ash seemed to stiffen. "Did it come from the Aether Therapy Facility?"
Ash bit his lip as he put down the chair.
"How did you know?" he asked in a fearful tone, not meeting Gladion's eyes as he started to bite the minor knuckle on his middle finger.
"I've seen it a couple of times when visiting Mum and Dad at the facility," Gladion admitted.
"Oh," Ash said in a stiff voice around his finger.
Gladion winced. Ash looked really uncomfortable.
"Ash, will you look at me?" he asked gently.
Ash slowly looked at him, his finger still in between his teeth.
"I'm not going to pry or ask any questions," Gladion said, causing Ash to release his finger while sighing in relief. "But if you do want to tell me one day, I'll be happy to listen as a friend."
"Thank you," Ash smiled softly. "But can I ask a favour of you? Please."
"Of course," Gladion smiled.
"Please don't tell the others that I'm a patient at the facility," Ash pleaded. "I want them to like me for me, not because they pity me. Please, I'm begging you. Don't tell."
Gladion nodded before blinking when he saw Ash put his hand out towards him.
"You promise?" he asked in a small voice.
Gladion smiled as he placed his hand in Ash's, noticing that Ash's hand felt soft but rough at the same time. He could also feel bite marks under his thumb.
"I promise," Gladion said as he gave Ash's hand a gentle squeeze.
As he did, he watched Ash relax and gave Gladion a gentle smile.
"Thank you," he said, releasing Gladion's hand before picking up the chair again.
As Ash and Gladion walked back to the classroom, Gladion couldn't help but wonder why Ash was a patient at the facility and why he wouldn't stop biting his hand but he tried to push it out of his mind.
Maybe when he's more comfortable and settled in, he thought. Maybe I'll ask him why.
***
Over the next month at the Pokémon School, Gladion got to know Ash better. He learnt that Ash was a kind, funny person who was a bit of a foodie (much to Mallow's delight) and quite clumsy to the point that Gladion was certain the Diglett were conspiring to make Ash trip at least once a day. He also learnt, that despite him being an introvert who enjoyed the quiet (unless he was battling, of course), he enjoyed Ash’s loud and cheerful nature. His energy, his playfulness and contagious smile reminded Gladion of a Rockruff, something he appreciated. But what he found the most intriguing about Ash was the fact that somehow, he and Pikachu had managed to capture the attention of Tapu Koko, the Island Guardian of Melemele Island.
As they were eating lunch, Gladion thought about the day before. How Tapu Koko had appeared in front of them and gave Ash a Z-Ring, complete with an Electrium Z-Crystal, before challenging him and Pikachu to a Pokémon battle. He remembered how well Ash and Pikachu worked together and how worried he was when Pikachu got hurt. He appreciated Ash's battling style, as well as his concern and empathy for Pikachu's safety. But what shocked him (and everyone else) the most was how Tapu Koko activated the Z-Crystal before showing Ash the correct poses to activate the Z-Power within himself and Pikachu. Unfortunately, after performing the move Gigavolt Havoc, the crystal shattered in his Z-Ring, showing that because Ash hadn't participated in the Island Challenges and learnt how to harness the Z-Power within, he wasn't ready to use Z-Moves.
Gladion broke out of his thoughts to look at Ash, who was still staring at his Z-Ring while biting his knuckle.
"You okay, Ash?" he asked quietly.
Ash gave a slight nod. "I think so. I'm...confused. Why would Tapu Koko give me this Z-Ring and ask me to perform a Z-Move when I'm not strong enough to? You heard Kiawe. I wasn't ready. Why would it do this?"
"Maybe Tapu Koko sees something in you," Gladion suggested. "Or maybe it just likes you."
"Maybe," Ash shrugged as he continued biting before shaking his head and grabbing a berry from his lunchbox.
As he bit into it, the berry squirted juice all over his face and hands. Gladion gave a slight snort as he watched the juice drip off Ash’s chin and fingers.
"Oh Ratatta," Ash groaned, putting the fruit down in his lunchbox before standing. "I'll be right back."
Gladion nodded as he watched Ash walk away to clean up before frowning. He had noticed that Ash often bit his knuckle whenever he was feeling sad, anxious or confused. He had also noticed that whenever he did, Kirlia would take his hand out and hold it until the feeling passed while Pikachu would nuzzle Ash's stomach.
I wonder why you do that, he thought. I don't like it when you hurt yourself.
"Hey big brother," Lillie smiled as she sat beside him. "Thinking about your crush?"
"Crush? What crush?" Gladion asked in confusion. "I don't have a crush."
"Yes, you do," Lillie giggled. "On Ash."
"What?!" Gladion yelped, his cheeks turning red. "I don't have a crush on Ash!"
"Then why won't you stop staring at him?" Lillie asked cheekily.
"I'm just concerned about him," he said defensively. "He seemed worried today and I don't think he likes upsetting people. He seemed bothered when Kiawe got upset yesterday about him getting a Z-Ring from Tapu Koko."
"Is Kiawe still upset with me?" Ash asked as he walked back into the classroom, biting his knuckle again.
"No Ash," Lillie smiled. "It's okay."
"Yeah, Ash," Kiawe called from the balcony where he was giving Turtonator some juice. "You said you were going to learn about the responsibilities that come with owning a Z-ring and that's enough for me."
Ash sighed and nodded, removing his hand from his mouth before he started to pack up his stuff, just as Kukui walked back into the classroom.
"Ash?" He spoke.
"Yes sir?" Ash asked as Kirlia walked over and reached for the hand he was previously biting while Pikachu jumped onto his shoulder.
"You've been here a month," Kukui smiled. "I believe it's time for you to catch your first Alolan Pokémon."
"Really?" Ash asked hopefully, his face lighting up.
Gladion couldn't help but smile as well. He liked the way Ash's face would light up when he was excited.
"Sure Ash," Kukui nodded. "Head into the forest with everyone during the break and see who you can find. Come back when you're ready."
***
As the class walked through the forest, everyone told Ash about the different Pokémon that he could find. As Mallow talked about how she found Bounsweet in the forest with her mother when she was little, Gladion noticed a Pokémon a little up ahead.
"Hey Ash," he smiled, tapping Ash's shoulder to get his attention and pointing. "Look."
Ash followed the direction of Gladion's finger to see what he was pointing at.
"A Pikachu?" he asked curiously as he crouched down.
"No Ash," Lillie shook her head. "It's called a Mimikyu. It's a Pokémon that looks a little like Pikachu because of the costume it wears."
"Wow really?" Ash asked, his eyes wide in excitement. "Hey, Mimikyu?"
Mimikyu turned and looked at Ash. Gladion watched with wide eyes, curious if Ash was going to succeed in catching his first Alolan Pokémon.
"I want you to be my Pokémon!" Ash grinned, taking a few steps forward. "So, let's have a battle! Pikachu, I choose you!"
As Pikachu jumped from Ash's shoulder and got into a battle position, Mimikyu's eyes suddenly narrowed before it leapt forward, aggressively smacking Pikachu with its wooden tail, much to everyone’s shock.
"Pikachu!" Ash gasped as Mimikyu then began to swipe at Pikachu with its shadow claws.
"Great going Mimikyu!" A voice cried joyfully. "Get us that Pikachu!"
Everyone looked up to see a woman with long pink hair, a man with shoulder-length purple hair, a pale Meowth and a Wobbuffet. The man and woman were wearing similar outfits, except the woman was wearing a miniskirt with a long-sleeved croptop while the man wore trousers and a long-sleeved shirt.
"Oh no, not you," Ash suddenly gasped in a frightened voice as he bit his knuckle hard.
"Not us," the woman declared. "Stupid twerp, can't you see?"
"Wherever you and Pikachu go, behind you we'll always be," the man added.
As the man and woman introduced themselves as Jessie and James before explaining they were members of Team Rocket, Gladion looked at Ash, who was now holding both Pikachu and Kirlia tight while digging his teeth into his hand.
"Ash!" Gladion cried, quickly moving towards Ash before kneeling in front of him. "What's wrong?"
Suddenly, Ash blinked, releasing his hand from his mouth and putting Pikachu and Kirlia on the ground before standing up and walking around Gladion, completely ignoring him as he took off his backpack and his hat. He then pulled a hair tie out of his pocket while glaring at the group.
"Seriously?" he asked in a dark voice as he tied his hair back in a small ponytail, his fridge framing his eyes. "You idiots followed us to Alola? What in Arceus's name is wrong with you?! Why can't you leave us alone?!"
"Until we give Pikachu to the boss, we'll never leave you alone!" James told him smugly. "And that pretty Kirlia will make a lovely present!"
"Fine!" Ash snarled coldly. "That Pokémon. Is it yours?"
"Not yet!" Jessie bragged smugly. "But it's obvious it wants to help us so Mimikyu, do what you have to do."
Mimikyu gave a nod before launching at Pikachu and Kirlia. Gladion, who was still crouching in front of the two Pokémon, was right in the line of fire.
"Pikachu, protect them both!" Ash commanded. "Leap over and use Iron Tail to knock it off balance!"
Pikachu cried out a confirmation before doing what he was told, using Gladion as a stepping stone while hardening his tail before smacking Mimikyu hard, sending it flying through the air and towards Team Rocket, who looked horrified at their newest companion’s collapse.
"Now use Thunderbolt!" Ash barked.
Pikachu screamed as he sent a powerful Thunderbolt towards Team Rocket, who screamed in pain before collapsing. Everyone glared at the group before their faces filled with surprise as a Bewear came out of nowhere and collected the burnt group in its arms before happily skipping away, causing Team Rocket to wail about how they were 'off with a new blast'. Everyone blinked in confusion at the sight while Gladion stood up and picked up Kirlia before moving to stand in front of Ash, who was standing with Pikachu on his shoulder and a dark look on his face.
"Ash?" Gladion asked in concern. "Are you okay?"
Ash looked at Gladion, who stared back in surprise. It was like all the sunshine had left Ash's face. Now it was filled with anger and bitterness.
"Ash, what's wrong?" he asked. "Please talk to me."
"We'll be fine," Ash said coldly, holding out his hands for Kirlia. "We just want to go back to the school. Please. All of you. Take us back."
Gladion nodded as he handed Kirlia to Ash. "Okay, we'll take you back," he promised.
Ash nodded and turned to leave. Gladion blinked and quickly put his hand on Ash's shoulder. Quickly, Ash turned and glared at him, making Gladion flinch. Why did Ash suddenly look so cold?
"Your bag and hat," Gladion pointed at the items.
"Oh, right." Ash picked up the hat and placed it in the bag before picking it up with his free hand and slinging it over his shoulder.
Gingerly, Gladion held out his hand. "I'll take you back to the school," he promised.
Ash gave Gladion's hand a suspicious look before looking at Pikachu and Kirlia. After getting nods from them, he gingerly placed his hand in Gladion's before allowing him to lead him back through the forest. As everyone led Ash back to the Pokémon school, Gladion kept looking at Ash, who kept looking sullen.
"Are you sure you're okay?" he asked again just as Kukui ran out to greet them.
"Are you kids okay?" He asked. "What's going on?"
Ash stepped forward causing Gladion to release his hand. After Ash whispered something to Kukui, Gladion noticed that Kukui's eyes went wide.
"All of you, please go back into the classroom,” he said firmly. “I need to have a word with Lu-Ash."
Everyone nodded and walked inside but Gladion kept looking over his shoulder at Ash and Kukui.
"Why do you keep looking at Ash?" Kiawe asked. "He said he was fine."
"I don't know," he frowned. "He seems... different in a way."
"Well, from the way he was reacting to Team Rocket, maybe he's had really bad experiences with them,” Sophocles suggested. “But I'm sure he's okay."
Gladion shrugged. I'm not so sure, he thought before following everyone into the classroom.
***
After about ten minutes, Kukui, Ash, Pikachu and Kirlia walked into the classroom, which caused Gladion to sigh with relief, although he had noticed that Ash's hair was still in a ponytail rather than loose and he wasn't wearing his cap.
"Ash?" Lana asked. "Are you feeling okay?"
Ash gave a simple but polite nod. "Yes, we're fine. Just needed some time. Team Rocket has been stalking us for a couple of years. I was foolish to hope that they wouldn't follow us to Alola. But I give you my word that I won't allow them to take your Pokémon."
"Go sit at your desk," Kukui suggested gently, pointing at his desk.
Ash nodded before taking a seat next to Gladion. As Kukui started the afternoon lesson, Gladion quickly scribbled a note on a scrap of paper he tore from his notebook.
I promise I won't let them take Pikachu from you, he wrote before sneaking the note towards Ash. Ash gave him another suspicious look before he read the note. Gladion watched Ash blink a couple of times before writing something and pushed the paper scrap back.
Appreciate it. Can we trust you?
Gladion blinked in surprise. Odd.
You can trust me. He wrote back.
***
The next day, when Ash walked into the classroom, Gladion noticed that he was smiling, wearing his cap and his hair was loose again, like always. He didn't know why, but the sight of Ash smiling with his hair loose under his cap comforted him for some reason.
"Hey," Gladion smiled as Ash sat next to him. "How are you feeling?"
"I'm alright," Ash smiled shyly before he turned worried, his finger going to his mouth. "I can't believe Team Rocket came to Alola. Why can't they leave me alone?"
As Ash started to bite his knuckle again, Gladion reached up and took Ash's hand and held it tight. Ash looked at him in shock.
"It's okay Ash," Gladion smiled. "I made a promise to you yesterday, remember? And not just me, all of us."
"Thank you," Ash smiled gratefully just as Kukui walked into the classroom.
"Alola!" He smiled after having a quick look at Ash.
"Alola!" The class chimed back.
"Now I know yesterday was a bit difficult," he said sympathetically. "So, let's make today a better day!"
"Right!" The class said as Kukui started the lesson.
As Kukui lectured about the different Totem Pokémon that could be found on Melemele Island, Gladion's mind continued to drift to yesterday and the change he saw in Ash. There was something about it that bothered him. It was like Ash had become a completely different person.
"Hey, Ash?" Gladion whispered.
"Yeah?" Ash smiled at him.
Gladion's breath caught in his throat. He looked so different from yesterday. He looked brighter, happier, and more relaxed. He looked like a sunflower, so sunny and…
Beautiful, he thought. I love that look on you.
"Gladion?" Ash asked again. "Is something wrong?"
"No," Gladion smiled, deciding that he wanted to see that carefree look on Ash's face a little longer. "It's not important."
"Really?"
"Really," Gladion smiled.
Ash nodded before turning back to the lesson. As he did, Gladion noticed Lillie staring at him.
What? He mouthed to his sister.
Lillie smirked as she used her eyes to indicate to Ash before wiggling her eyebrows. Gladion rolled his eyes and turned back to the blackboard, while Lillie giggled under her breath.
"Are you okay, Lillie?" Kukui asked in concern, looking over his shoulder.
"Fine, Professor," Lillie cleared her throat. "Just a tickle in my throat."
Kukui nodded before turning back to the lesson. As he continued talking, Gladion kept thinking about Ash's behaviour from the day before deciding to push the thoughts out of his mind. Maybe Sophocles was right. Maybe Ash was fine.
***
Over the next couple of months, Gladion began to notice that some things were wrong with Ash. Some days, he was happy and eager to learn about Pokémon, the Island Challenges, battles and Alola but other days (although there weren't a lot), he was quiet, aloof and kept to himself to the point where he wouldn't battle. Sometimes he wouldn't eat, he had gotten scratches and cuts on his arms and legs that he didn't remember getting, he was forgetting the correct poses for Z-moves despite Professor Kukui's repeated classes, he was forgetting specific schoolwork or the names of Alolan Pokémon despite seeing them before and sometimes he got such dreadful migraines that he ended up being picked up by his mother and taken away for the rest of the day. It had worried Gladion to the point where he begged Ash before school to tell him what was wrong.
"I'm okay Gladion," Ash reassured him. "Sometimes I get sick. But Professor Kukui and Principal Oak know I'm sick so I'm not alone. You don't have to worry. I'm fine."
Gladion accepted what Ash was saying, relieved that he wasn't keeping it a secret from his teachers but he still felt unsure. But one morning, he had had enough. Ash had come to school happily saying that Professor Kukui had let him catch Rockruff, a wild Puppy Pokémon that bonded with the professor after an act of kindness. After letting Rockruff out of his Pokéball, Gladion released his Midnight Form Lycanroc for Rockruff to greet. Eagerly, the Puppy Pokémon begged Ash, Gladion and Lycanroc to battle so they did, only for Team Rocket to come and try to kidnap Lycanroc, Pikachu and Kirlia. Luckily, Rockruff was still free and used a powerful Bite to destroy the nets holding the Pokémon. Once they were free, Gladion and Lycanroc performed Continental Crush to send Team Rocket away before looking at Ash. He was kneeling on the ground, clutching his head with one hand while biting his other. Pikachu, Rockruff and Umbreon were licking his cheeks while Kirlia was trying to use the move Calm Mind on him.
"Ash," Gladion said as he quickly rushed to Ash's side. "Look at me. It's okay. They're gone."
Ash bit his hand hard and whimpered, pulling his hair until he stopped. As he lifted his head, Gladion saw bitterness on his face again.
"Are you alright?" he asked.
"We'll be fine," Ash said simply.
"Okay, do you want to continue our battle?" Gladion offered.
"No, we just want to go home," Ash said wearily as he stood up. "We'll see you tomorrow."
As Gladion watched Ash and his Pokémon walk away, his heart ached for Ash.
Okay, something is definitely wrong with you, he thought. I'm going to find out what's hurting you and help you heal.
***
True to his word, Gladion kept an eye on Ash since that day for the next few months, trying to figure out when Ash would switch between his bubbly self to his aloof self. He eventually learnt that Team Rocket and Team Skull (who liked to bully weaker Pokémon and trainers) often caused Ash to go from his warm personality to his colder side. He also noticed that whenever he switched to his colder self, Ash always took off his hat before tying his hair into a ponytail. After learning that was the case, Gladion started to keep an eye out for when Ash's hair was up and tried to comfort him by talking to him about his feelings. Every time he did, Ash tried to put up walls, insisting he was fine but Gladion fought hard until Ash finally told him about the frustrations and the fears that he experienced when facing Team Rocket or bullies.
Eventually, although he still acted a little cold, he slowly began to open up to Gladion and tell him when he was feeling angry or scared, much to Gladion's relief. As the months continued to pass and Gladion got better at reading Ash, he discovered that despite the difference between the two sides of him, he was slowly falling for Ash. He loved his kindness and empathy towards Pokémon and he loved Ash's passion for battling and life when he was happy. But at the same time, he still felt like Ash was hiding something from him, which was incredibly frustrating.
"You're staring at Ash again, big brother," Lillie whispered one afternoon as they packed up after school. "If you keep staring like that, he's going to figure out how much you like him."
Gladion went red and kept packing his books.
"Come on Gladion," Lillie implored. "I know how much you want to be with him. Just ask him out. It won't hurt."
"I want to, Lillie," Gladion admitted. "But I feel like he's still hiding something from me. I don't want to start a relationship with a secret. But I can't get it out of him. Do you have any idea of getting him to talk to me, Lillie?"
"Just ask him," Lillie encouraged. "You know you're a lot closer to him than the rest of us. He finds it easier to open up to you than the rest of us."
"I've tried," he told her. "He keeps saying he's fine when I know he's not. It's like pulling teeth with him."
"I'm sorry, big brother," Lillie said sympathetically. "I don't know any other way to approach him about opening up. All I can suggest is that you try."
"I guess," Gladion said, looking over at Ash.
Team Rocket had attacked again today so Ash wasn't happy, which meant he had his hair up and his face was sour. Taking a deep breath, Gladion approached Ash.
"Hey," he smiled.
Ash looked up suddenly before relaxing a little when he saw it was Gladion.
"Hi," he said, picking up his backpack. "I know what you're going to ask. Honestly, we just need some space. Please."
"Okay," Gladion nodded. "Will I see you tomorrow?"
"Maybe," Ash shrugged. "See you later, Gladion."
As Gladion watched Ash walk away, he noticed Ash's bag shift around. Gladion smiled, knowing that Rowlet (the newest addition to Ash’s team) was in there and trying to get comfortable. Suddenly, Rowlet popped out of the bag with a small notebook in his beak. Gladion watched as the grass owl threw the book out before tucking himself back in again.
"Hey, Ash wait!" Gladion called as he jogged over to the book. "Rowlet threw out one of your books!"
But Ash didn't hear him. Sighing, Gladion picked up the book before opening it, hoping to find an address or something. To his surprise, the pages were filled out like a diary. Gladion frowned as he read one of the writings.
To Ash, one entry said. Today Team Rocket tried and failed again to take Pikachu. Honestly, why don't they leave us alone? Anyway, thank Arceus Gladion was there to help us again. I can't believe how patient he is with us. No one has ever paid so much attention to us when we switch aside from Delia, Professor Kukui and the doctors. But we shouldn't get our hopes up. Anyway, I hope Team Rocket gives you a break. Luca.
Gladion frowned. Luca? Who’s Luca? He turned the page to see a different entry in a different penmanship.
Luca, Gladion read. Gladion was so sweet to me today helping me get the Z-move positions right. I feel so safe with him. I haven't felt this safe with anyone for so long. I didn't even feel this safe with Serena. But at the same time, I'm really scared to fall for him. He's an amazing trainer, like Gary, Paul, Trip and Alain. But I'm so scared he won't care for me, for us. What do you think of him? Ash.
Ash, I understand the fear, they all hurt both of us so much. I may not spend as much time with him as you do, but he's so caring. I trust him. But I do understand your reluctance to tell him about us. Gary, Paul, Trip and Alain pushed you over the edge, remember? I was in control for nearly two months before you came back. But don't worry, I will protect you. I'll always protect you. Luca.
Gladion kept reading the entries until his eyes fell on the latest entry. Yesterday and today.
Ash, Wow, I can't believe how hard Gladion fought for us today. I don't remember the last time I felt this way. I think I'm falling for him, Ash.
Wait, what?! Gladion thought. But I don't know any Luca.
Luca, I know. I love him too.
Gladion gasped. Ash loved him but this Luca loved him too? What in the names of the Alola Island Guardians is going on?!
That's it, he thought as he snapped the book shut. I've had enough!
"Professor?" Gladion asked as he walked over to Kukui. "If I ask you something, will you be honest?"
"Of course, Gladion," Kukui smiled.
Gladion held up the diary, watching Kukui's face turn serious. "Who's Luca? Do you know him?"
Kukui studied him silently, the same way he always studied situations that were severe. "I do know Luca," he admitted after some time. "But it's not my place to tell you who he is."
"So, I should ask him about this Luca person?" Gladion clarified before noticing how uncomfortable his teacher looked. "If you're worried about me wondering about his living arrangements, I already know he's a patient at my parents' facility. The Kirlia with him; it's one of the therapy Pokémon that works there. I’ve seen it before. Do you know where he's living?"
Kukui sighed. "He's living with his mother at one of the cottages owned by the facility near the beach close to my house. That’s when I first met him, the day he moved in. He's living in the mint-green house; the one closest to the ocean."
Gladion nodded before rushing towards the schoolyard to let Lillie know he wasn't going to drive home with her.
***
Gladion sighed as he reached the small mint-green cottage on Silvally (a gift from his parents), grateful that his mother used to take him to the different cabins to provide linen and supplies when he was younger.
"Thanks, Silvally," he smiled, rubbing the artificial Pokémon’s cheeks after climbing off its back.
Silvally gave a happy purr before allowing itself to be returned to its Pokéball. After walking up to the front door, Gladion knocked before tugging nervously on his clothes.
"Just a minute!" a woman's voice called from inside before the door opened, revealing a smiling woman with brown hair in a ponytail. "Alola, may I help you?"
"Alola, Mrs Ketchum," Gladion said politely. "I'm Gladion. I'm Ash's friend from school."
"Oh, Gladion," she smiled. "Yes, I've been told about you. Is there something I can do for you?"
"I... um," Gladion said awkwardly before holding up the diary, much to the woman’s surprise. "I wanted to return this."
"Oh, thank you," Delia smiled politely before frowning. "But you wouldn't have come this way at this time to return Ash's diary. You read it, didn't you?"
Gladion gave a hesitating nod, making the woman hum thoughtfully.
"How much do you know?" she asked not unkindly.
"Not very much," Gladion admitted. "Just what I've seen and what I've read. Can I talk to him? Please?”
Delia studied him in a way that made his insides churn before smiling. Gladion couldn't help but smile too. He could see where Ash got his smile.
"Come inside and make yourself comfortable," Delia said in a kind, inviting tone, stepping to the side and holding her arm out in a welcoming manner. "I'll go get him."
Gladion followed Delia inside and stood awkwardly in the kitchen-living area, watching her walk up the stairs and disappear before looking around. It was a peaceful atmosphere with soft yellow wooden floors, baby blue walls and simple furniture. He recognised this house. This was one of the cottages his parents and the estate staff decorated when he was younger. His job was to keep baby Lillie busy while everyone worked. And then, when Lillie went for a nap, he had gone to his mother to ask her why they had brought a bunch of old buildings and spent months fixing them.
"Well, there are lots of people who are sick, sweetheart," Lusamine explained as she placed towels in the linen cupboard. "But these sicknesses can't be healed with surgery or lots of medicine. These people need time to heal so these cabins are for people to help them heal."
"Gladion?"
Gladion broke out of his daydream to see Ash walking down the stairs without his hat but with his hair loose. He sighed. Despite his nerves, he couldn't help but feel relieved to see Ash’s hair loose and free rather than pulled back.
"What are you doing here?" Ash asked curiously. "How did you find me?"
"Before I answer, please tell me your name," Gladion begged.
"My name?" Ash frowned as he approached.
"Is your name Ash or Luca?" Gladion asked, holding up the diary.
Gladion watched as Ash stood a few feet away from him frozen, his eyes wide with shock before filling with fear.
"Where did you get that?" he asked in a trembly voice as he took a few steps back.
"No, no, no, no," Gladion pleaded as he tried to reach for Ash's hand, but he was too far away to reach. "Please, don't go. I'm not going to hurt you. I just want to know. Please tell me. Who are you?"
Ash paused and took a shuddering breath before swallowing. "I'm Ash. Right now, I'm Ash."
"So, who's Luca?" Gladion asked, putting the book on the bench beside him.
"He's my... he’s my…." Ash lifted his hand to his lips before he started to bite his knuckle again.
"Ash," Gladion moved closer before taking Ash's hands in his. "Please, don't hurt yourself. I just want to know. Please tell me."
Ash sighed before leading Gladion to the couch and sitting down.
"Luca is my alternate personality," he admitted.
Gladion frowned, not expecting the answer. "Alternate personality?"
"I have... I have something called Dissociative Identity Disorder," Ash explained reluctantly. "DID. It means that I have another personality in me that comes out when I'm stressed or scared. Luca mostly comes out when I can't cope, usually when Team Rocket bothers us."
Gladion gaped at him as Ash’s answer ran through his head. Another personality. A completely different person. Two individuals sharing one body.
"So, when you're putting your hair up?" he clarified. "That's not you?"
"That's Luca," Ash confirmed. "He hates having hair tickle his neck and he hates my hat."
Gladion shook his head in disbelief. This was so confusing and yet somehow it made sense.
"How did this happen?" he asked.
Ash sighed. "I was properly diagnosed last year after I came home from Kalos. The doctor said that DID comes from severe abuse or trauma; physical, emotional or sexual. Mine comes from physical but mostly emotional abuse. Bullying, dealing with dangerous people, and nearly losing my Pokémon. I was losing time; I wasn't remembering things; I didn't know what was going on. And then something happened while I was in Kalos. Really bad things. Please don't ask, I don't want to talk about it. But what happened was the straw that broke the Numel's back. I sort of… disappeared for a bit. After I returned to Kanto, mum took me to the doctor and I got diagnosed. Afterwards, I started therapy, taking anti-anxiety medications and as for the diary in your hands, it's a way for Luca and me to talk to each other. I can see and hear everything when Luca is in control but Luca can't. So, I write to him to let him know what's going on."
Well, that explains why Ash knew how to perform a Z-Move one day and then had no idea another day or how he couldn't remember the name of a Pokémon he met before.
"How do you come back when Luca is in control?" Gladion asked.
"Hypnosis," Ash answered. "And Kirlia using Calm Mind. It's the reason Kirlia was chosen to be my Therapy Pokémon. She knows how to calm us, especially when I'm stressed and end up hurting us."
"And, the cuts and bruises, where do they come from?" Gladion asked.
"Me," Ash answered. "I’m a bit of a clumsy person and you’ve seen me scratch and bite myself when I'm stressed, but when I'm overwhelmed and scared, Luca will take over. And he doesn't know what I've done to my body. So, whenever you asked about my injuries, you were asking Luca. Like I said, I can see and hear everything, Luca can't.”
"Whoa, what's it like?" Gladion asked. “When you switch, I mean?”
"It kind of hurts at first because of the migraines and then it feels... safe, I suppose.” Ash rocked his head before shrugging. “It's really hard to describe."
"Oh. How does Professor Kukui know about Luca?"
"He met Luca for the first time when Team Rocket first came to Alola," Ash explained. "But he learnt about Luca the week before I started at the Pokémon School. Your mother told him about us."
"Oh," Gladion said again.
Ash nodded before looking at the kitchen, right where the book sat on the bench. "How much did you read?"
"Everything dating back to when you started school," Gladion admitted. "I also saw the conversation between you and Luca on the last pages. You're both in love with me?"
Ash looked down as he started to bite his knuckle again. Gladion sighed as he moved closer, taking Ash's hands and holding them tight.
"Ash, look at me," he pleaded. "Just tell me. Are you afraid to love me?"
Ash nodded as he sniffed.
“Why?”
"I've had my heart broken too many times," Ash answered as he started to cry.
"Serena, Paul, Gary, Trip and Alain, right?" Gladion clarified, to which Ash nodded again. "Tell me what happened."
"Gary, Paul, Trip and Alain were my rivals before I came to Alola," Ash admitted as tears continued to fall. "Gary, Paul and Trip didn't treat me right until I beat them at the Pokémon Leagues. Alain did treat me with respect but he betrayed me. As for Serena, I liked her and I knew she liked me but Luca was in control when they got into a fight. She screamed at us 'I want the real Ash back!' That hurt us both so much because Luca is a part of me. He's not something I can switch off or push away. So, to protect us, I pretend to be an idiot when it comes to love. But a couple of months after I returned to Pallet Town, Gary asked me on a date. And then Paul, Trip and Alain. So, I tried. I tried but I couldn't be in a relationship with any of them. They hurt me before; what if they did it again? And would they love us, both of us? So, I declined a relationship with them. But after going out with Alain, I shut down. I couldn't cope with the old feelings so Luca took over for nearly two months. Mum realised that we needed a lot more help than what was provided for us in Kanto. So, here we are."
"So that's why you're afraid to love?" Gladion asked. "Both of you?"
"Who would love us?" Ash sobbed.
Gladion swallowed. This wasn't how he wanted it to go. "I would. I do.”
"What?" Ash asked in shock.
Gladion smiled as he reached up to wipe away his tears. "I would and do love you. Whether you're Ash or Luca, I've fallen for you. I've been wanting to ask you to be mine for months now but I always felt like you were still hiding from me."
"How?" Ash asked in disbelief. "How can you love us both? We're too different."
"Doesn't matter," Gladion shook his head. "You're both still you and I want to be with you."
He then held out his arms.
"Ash, will you go out with me?"
Ash bit his lip as he leaned closer until he was resting gingerly against Gladion, who wrapped his arms around Ash’s shoulders to pull him closer. Ash sighed, closing his eyes briefly as he relaxed. It felt nice being held.
"Are you sure?" he asked. "We're both pretty stubborn and we both still have a lot of issues."
"I know," Gladion smiled as he gently stroked Ash's back. "But you're both letting me into your world. That's all I want. Do you remember what Luca wrote to me after the first time Team Rocket attacked?"
"Can we trust you?" Ash answered. "You said 'yes'."
"I want to be with you Ash," Gladion confirmed. "Luca or no Luca. Do you trust me?"
Ash sighed before looking at Gladion properly.
"We trust you."