Blooming

by Hathos

An older Ash Ketchum comes home to Pallet Town for a surprise visit. He meets up with this favorite professor and they spend the day together catching up on lost time. Ash has been looking for change in his life, hopefullya change that he won't regret. Little does he know, what he's been wanting has already been granted to him. Warning: Yaoi, Ash x Professor Oak

1. Introduction

The sun was as high as could be, striking down the rays of high noon onto the citizens of Pallet Town. At its dock, a familiar face was strolling through a dirt path with his lightning-affiliated companion hopping in pursuit of its owner.

It seemed as if only yesterday Ash had left his hometown, but in reality, a few months had passed, six to be exact, ever since he set foot in this beloved place he called home.

Ash paused for a moment to reminisce the memories created at this very town. He inhaled the fresh, warm air, preparing himself before advancing. His intention for returning was definitely for the best; Ash had high expectations for this visit, and the challenges to come would be some of the most difficult ones he would face in his entire life.

"Pika Pika!" exclaimed Pikachu with much anticipation. Ash's absence matched to that of Pikachu's, and neither one could wait for what was to come.

"Right. Let's go Pikachu," Ash replied. With his wide field of view, he observed his surroundings. He paced himself, and with each step, recognized more and more buildings. "Quite a sight for sore eyes," thought Ash as he made it to the main path. But the buildings of Pallet Town were not the target of Ash's attention; only one building served as the real objective for the dynamic duo. Ash's heart skipped a beat as he caught sight of his main destination: a red-topped, windmill-equipped, laboratory. "Professor…" Ash whispered to himself.