Prologue
An old man watches his grandchildren from a bedroom window. They run through the backyard, picking flowers and smelling their sweet spring scent. Suddenly the grandfather notices a movement in the grass near his grandson. When he realizes what it is he's too late; a Starly bursts from the shade, knocking over his grandson. Immediately, the grandfather rushes down the stairs and out the door as fast as his old bones will carry him.
By the time he's outside the Starly is facing his granddaughter, ready to attack. The grandfather runs as fast as he can, while reaching down to his belt and grabbing a Poké Ball. As soon as he reaches his granddaughter's side, he thrusts the ball in front of her. Just as the Starly starts to charge, the ball hit's the ground and explodes into light.
The Starly stops, startled and blinded by the light. Once the light starts to fade, a figure begins to emerge; first a tail surfaces, then a flame burning atop a head. Eventually the whole body appears, revealing a monkey-like creature with white and red fur. It looks as if it hasn't seen daylight in years.
The grandfather shouts from behind, "I know we're both old Infernape, but you've got to do this for me! Use Flare Blitz!
The Infernape seems surprised at first, but then turns around and nods his head as if in approval. Then he bursts into flames and charges toward the Starly at lightning speed. He makes full body contact with the bird and sends it hurtling twenty feet across the yard. It lands with a crunching sound on it's neck, killing it instantly.
"Good job Infernape, return," the grandfather says, and a red beam sucks the monkey back into the ball.
Shortly after, the granddaughter comes running toward the grandfather, bawling her eyes out.
"Don't worry Katie, Johnny will be alright," the grandfather coaxes, patting her on the back.
"It's not that Grandpa Nathan," she sobs. "You killed that poor little bird."
Nathan chuckles to himself and then goes to check on Johnny's injuries. He determines that there is nothing serious, just a few minor cuts and bruises.
"Johnny, are you feeling all right?"
"Yeah, just a little beat up."
"Good, then let's get you back to the house." Nathan pulls Johnny on to his feet and they all walk back to the house. Once they arrive, Nathan treats Johnny's wounds and makes every one a sandwich.
While they're eating Johnny asks, "Hey Grandpa Nathan, how come you never told us you had Pokémon?"
"I never thought you guys would really care," he replied in between bites.
"When'd you get them?" Katie asked.
"Where'd you get them?" Johnny asked.
"Do you guys want to hear the story?" Nathan said, finishing his sandwich.
"Yeah!" they replied in unison.
"Then get comfortable, cause it's a long story." Nathan leaned back in his chair and his eyes became glossy. "It all started when I was a young boy…