Chapter One – Pallet Town: Shades of Your Journey Await!
Pokemon is in property of Nintendo, Gamefreak, and whoever else was behind it.
"Morning mom."
A quiet weary voice descended from the stairs as a young man in his early teens made his way into the living room.
"Red, good morning~!"
A much older woman responded in a quick and cheerful manner. Although she was obviously older than he was, she still looked liked as if half her age. The years have been kind to her it seemed.
Red, the lad's name, seated himself across the table from where his mother was. Food had already been put out on the table. The food was still warm, but was obviously there for some time. It was already late in the morning. He usually woke up earlier than this.
"So Red, you came home a bit late last night. Where did you go~?"
His mother asked; interrupting his train of thought.
"I was star gazing with Leaf last night near the coast."
Red answered just as he noticed a Pokemon on TV. What was his mother watching? Well it looks like it's having fun.
"Star gazing…~"
His mother mumbled, digesting what she just heard her son said.
"Ara~!"
She excitedly exclaimed; hands held together after a single clap. Red, seemingly unfazed, just continued eating (probably wondering what it was he was eating).
"My Red? Out on a date? My boy's growing up~!"
Now she was really excited. You can tell by the little sparkles glittering about around her. This happened every time she discovers Red doing something she deemed 'romantic'. He really has been expecting this though.
"Not a date."
"What was that~?"
"She couldn't sleep, asked me to accompany her for a while."
He finished after taking a bite of his 'late' breakfast.
"Oh really~?"
Her eyes filled with mischief and wonder.
"Yep."
The room was filled with awkward silence afterwards; neither saying another thing. Red was eating while his mom thinking on what to say. The sound of a laughing character on television was the only sound breaking the silence. At last his mother decided to break the silence.
"Oh come on son, indulge your mother for a bit. You never let me tease you anymore~."
She said with a defeated sigh and fake tears.
"Leaf and I are just friends."
"You know Red, if you don't make a move soon, Leaf could be taken away by someone else~."
She finished with a defeated sigh.
Red remained silent, finishing up on the meal that he had. If it was one thing that can be said about Red is that he was never the talkative one. Neither would his face reveal any expression that may reveal what he was thinking. Not that he was thinking of anything significant at the moment.
Seeing her son wasn't moved by her persistent teasing, finally gave up on it. That was when she remembered what she wanted to talk to him about earlier.
"Oh! I almost forgot. The professor came by today~."
"Professor Oak?"
Red's eyebrows were raised.
His mother gave a nod and continued.
"He said that he needed to see you today. It sounded very important. He didn't mention what it was about though~."
Red thought for a moment. It's strange to have the professor come by his home. Especially since Prof. Oak was a very busy man. He was either away for long periods of time or cooped up in his lab. Well, he wasn't called Kanto's Greatest Pokemon Professor for nothing off after all.
"I see."
Red stood up and grabbed his used plate and utensils.
"I'll see him later then."
"Oh no dear, you don't need to do that~."
His mother said this while taking away the plates Red had just held.
"But mom – "
"No buts Red. You shouldn't keep the professor waiting. He's a very busy man you know~."
Red knew that she was simply an excuse because she didn't want him to help. It's not like he was a klutz or anything, his mom just doesn't seem to want any help. Whenever he tried to do something in the house like cleaning; she would stop him and insisted she'd do it alone. He stopped protesting years ago as it was a futile attempt. By the very least he got her to stay out of his room.
"If you say so…"
Red mumbled to himself.
"See you later then"
He continued as he reached for the door and stepped outside.
"Bye bye~!"
His mom responded happily while washing the dishes.
The research lab was a few houses south of theirs. But Red was in no hurry. A stroll across town is always a pleasant one. It was sunny but not at all too hot. The fresh air is invigorating unlike the polluted skies, of far away regions, Red has seen often in the news. Which is not surprising since the town is still surrounded by trees.
Pallet Town was one of the most peaceful places in all of Kanto. Almost nothing ever happens there. The roads are all dirt tracks, not cemented nor asphalted. There are a lot of areas with wide open grass where children run and play around in. Red remembered playing with Green, Leaf, and the other kids when they were younger. Well, that was then, before Green is what he is now.
Across town, you can see various houses with a surprisingly similar design. All were white washed with red rooftops. It's as if the people of this town all hired the same architect on the construction of their homes. There were no skyscrapers, thankfully. The tallest building you would probably see here is Prof. Oak's lab, which is only slightly taller that most houses in here. But the uniformity makes Red feel in peace. No great surprises nor twists and turns.
That was probably why Prof. Oak settled in their town. No media, no interviews, and no old rivals hunting you down for a rematch. Red had known that the professor was a trainer in his younger years. But just how good the professor was, he cannot say.
The lab was almost within sight as Red was passing the flower fields with the town's sign.
"PALLET TOWN – Shades of your journey await!"
It was an interesting slogan that somehow fits; like calm before a storm.
The lab was now only a few more steps away. Unlike the rest of the houses, the lab stands out the most.
It was yellow in color and made of bricks, unlike all the houses which were made of wood. It had a gray roof and a red chimney. It was twice the length of any house in town. It had a single door in front with a see through window on it. Two double sliding windows on each side of the front building and four circular ones on the next level. There was also a fire escape on the side of the building leading up to the second floor.
Having taken in the view of the building, Red turned the doors knob and entered.
Inside was spacious. There were a lot of books shelves and books dedicated to Pokémon, its research and all that. There were a few books lying about on the floor. Red spots three of the professor's assistants; aides as they like to call themselves, cleaning up the mess. Red can see a closed door in front and a set of stairs to his right leading up the second level.
It didn't take long until one of the aides noticed him.
"Hello there. You must be Red."
Red gave a nod.
"You're here for the professor?"
Another nod was the response.
"Well that's too bad, the professor hasn't returned since this morning. You could wait if you like, I'm sure it won't be long until –"
"Yo Red!"
A voice came from a young man while descending from the stairs.
"Still like to take your time talking to people are we?" He said sarcastically, knowing full well Red wasn't the talking kind.
A young man dressed in a collared black shirt, purple pants with a belt bag, and clouded with an air of superiority; Green. There can be no other. Green's smug face can only be matched with Red's stoic one. These two are, in no doubt, polar opposites.
They have been rivals for so long now. Although it hadn't always been like that. They were friends ones, best of friends. Having sleepovers and playovers. A lot has changed since then. Like the fact that Red used to smile more while Green used to be more friendly; not the flirting kind of friendly. Both boys would always want top the other in a variety of ways, may it be in a race or what not. But contrary to popular belief, neither really hated each other. It was nothing like a grudge rivalry. Each sees the other as a challenge to be surpassed. Although neither can remember when it began, nor can they admit when it will end. Maybe this one will last a lifetime.
As years have gone by; Red became more calm, stoic, and quiet while Green had become the arrogant, proud, and the cocky grandson of a genius. Yes, he was the grandson of Prof. Oak; the greatest Pokemon researcher in the region.
"So what's up Red? Why aren't you wearing your namesake?" Green began to tug at Red's sleeve, interrupting his thoughts.
Red hadn't realized that he had forgotten his jacket and hat at home. He was only wearing a black shirt with his blue pants; he was rarely seen wearing these when heading out.
Red merely gave a shrug; not really caring.
"Hm… is that so?" Green answered; annoyed that his rival was unaffected by his jests. Well, this was the Red that he knew after all. The chances of catching all the Pokémon in the world and becoming the Pokémon champion was a more safe bet that hearing this guy talk three sentences at once. "I guess you're here for gramps. He isn't around yet though." He answered with a sigh.
Red took a glance at a window and decided to head out and come back later. He gave a slight nod and headed for the door.
"Ugh Red, where you headin'?" Green asked curious on what his rival was up to.
"Outside. Be back later."
Green was about to say something back but Red was already closing the door. He merely mumbled to himself.
"Pfft… Whatever then."
Red took a stroll back to his house, taking a long deep breath along the way. The breath of fresh air was invigorating. It's as if he hadn't been out in weeks. Being cooped up with Green in the same space can do that to you.
Red noticed that there were no kids around, which was odd since there was no school that day. Kids would always be running around the grass during days like this; more so since it was sunny but not at all too hot. He almost missed it, school that is. He and most kids in town attend the academy in Viridian City since it was the closest only one in town. He had graduated almost a year ago. Now he was 13 and most kids around that age either; found a job, continued their study for advance professions, or become Pokémon trainers.
He had already been interested in becoming a trainer himself, but decided to bid his time some more. He stayed with his mother and helped her with the baking. She makes good cakes and bread and sells them off in the market. Another reason would be that he made a promised to Leaf. The three of them were to travel together as trainers after she's done with school. She was a year younger than Red and Green.
Red wasn't really up for it. He wanted to travel alone after all, like most great trainers in the past. Had it not Leaf's persistence; such as camping out his house every night or stalking him all around school, did he finally concede.
But it wouldn't matter for long; she was going to graduate in three months time. He had waited after all these months; it wouldn't make a difference for waiting a bit longer. Green would probably make it more annoying though.
Red hadn't noticed it when it happened when it did. He was outside of town in the middle of a grassland; a short distance away from the town gate. He was too busy lost in his thoughts that he hadn't realized that he walked too far. It assumed that this was Route One; the road towards Viridian City.
Red knew it was dangerous to travel alone. There are thieves and wild Pokémon about. Being alone wasn't helping either. Nothing really happens in that area and he certainly was no wimp. But it's good to be careful; prevention is the best cure after all.
But this feeling had an appeal. To be out here alone, not knowing what lies beyond, and nothing with you but your guts and wits. It was invigorating.
Red couldn't spend another moment taking in the feeling when a voice called unto him.
"Red! What are you doing out here on your own?"
He turned to see an elderly man in a white coat carrying a bag, clumsily running towards him.
"It's too dangerous to be out here on your own." The professor paused, catching his breath.
"Especially without any protection."
Red took a look around them; strange that something so peaceful can be dangerous.
"Come on. Let's head back to the lab. I have something very important to -"
Oak was interrupted by the sound of electricity going of somewhere. Oak then noticed a little yellow mouse with black tips in its ears. A yellow light came charging to them from the creature's cheeks.
"Red ru – oof!"
Red tackled the professor before the lightning shock could connect to them; only missing by inches.
"Close."
"Thanks Re -" Prof. Oak was once more interrupted by a hand pulling him into a run.
"No wait!"
Eyes wide and brows raised: Red stopped, confused to what Prof. Oak was up to. The small mouse almost fried them into shish kabobs.
Oak grabbed a spherical object clad in red and white; about the size of the golf ball. He then did something to expand the ball; big enough to fit in one's hand.
The ball was thrown towards the yellow mouse; opening at the center. The mouse erupted into a yellow light and was sucked into the ball. It then resealed itself and fell into the ground. At first it was moving wildly, as if resisting capture. Eventually though, it came to a halt and it was over.
"Ah a Pikachu. Haven't caught these in a long time." The professor mused himself as he took the ball; now with the 'Pikachu' in it.
"Let's head back to the lab then"
With that, both made their way back to the lab.
"Gramps! I'm fed up with waiting." Green finally blew of steam. To be fair, he had been waiting for hours. This took the professor by surprise.
"Hm? Green? Why are you already here? I told you to come by later…" He said while massaging his right temple. "Ah! Whatever! Just wait there."
Prof. Oak then turned to Red.
"Do you see that ball on the table?" He motioned towards the rectangular table on his left. There was a suitcase on top with a ball in it; like the one used to catch that 'Pikachu'. Although it would seem that some of them were already taken.
"It's called a Poke Ball. It holds a Pokémon inside." The professor continued.
"You may have it! Go on, take it!"
Prof. Oak said it rather enthusiastically. Red has never seen the good professor this excited before. Red could hardly believe on what he was hearing. A Pokémon is just being offered up for free. Well, he had been offered months before, but declined because of that promise. Also the fact that that one kid really wanted the last one so bad. So sue him; Red has a soft spot for kids. After that, the professor had to travel far again and had only recently returned.
But there it was, another opportunity in front of his eyes. He still hasn't forgotten that feeling of walking out in the world on your own. It had been months since the professor came back with a Pokémon. All that time he stayed behind as some of his classmates traveled far, probably half way in collecting badges now.
There it was though, just beyond his reach. He was about to take it, his first Pokémon, until…
"Hey! Gramps! What about me?" Green protested.
"Be patient, Green, I'll give you one later." Prof. Oak retorted.
Red walked towards the ball. He was mere inches of grabbing it until…
*Push*
Green had pushed him aside, his face nearly hitting the wall.
"No way! Red, I want this Pokémon!" Green yelled it while grabbing the ball. Well, it's his now.
"Green! What are you doing?" Now it was his turn to yell.
"Gramps, I want this one." He said while crossing his arms to make his point.
"But, I… Oh, all right then. That Pokémon is yours." Oak held up his arms in defeat.
"I was going to give you one anyway…" He mumbled to himself.
"Red, come over here." Oak motioned Red to get closer.
Red had been quiet although out the exchange. It was frustrating that Green pulled a fast one. But whatever frustration he was feeling; he didn't let it get the best of him.
"Red, this is the Pokémon I caught earlier." Oak handed the ball to his hand.
"You can have it. I caught it in the wild so it's not tame yet." Oak finished while stroking his chin.
Red gave a slight nod and mumbled a 'thanks'. Green was staring delicately at his ball. Red decided not to bother Green's nirvana and started to walk out.
"Hold on Red! Let's check out our Pokémon!" Green said with a grin.
"Come on, I'll take you on!" He started walking towards Red, ball in hand.
Green then sent out his Pokémon: It was brown with a bushy tail. It had brown eyes and had big ears. It looked like a fox. There it was, standing in front of them; twitching its ears. Green's grinned wider, proud of the Pokémon he got.
Red already knew what was inside his so he called it out.
"Go! Pikachu!" And just like that, the yellow mouse was out of its container.
Pikachu looked around, curious as to where it was. It turned to whoever called it forth; a young man with red eyes. It then turned towards the fox-like animal in front of it. It then went into a battle-ready stance, instinct kicking in to match the upcoming threat.
Prof. Oak can be heard saying 'For goodness sake! Pushy as always.'
"Eevee! Run up to it and do a Tail Whip!" Green commanded, taking Red in surprise.
"Pikachu! Jump right and do a tackle!" Red spoke, trying to counter his rival. It was the first time in a long time he spoke in such a volume, even if just that much.
Pikachu ignored its trainer and let out a lightning bolt at Eevee.
"Pi-i-i-i-ka… Chu-u-u-u!"
Eevee, caught off guard, took the bolt head on. This sent him crashing on the floor.
"What? Damn it! Eevee get up!" Green commanded, taken back by what just transpired.
Red was still stunned at what happened. The opponent was hit, but not with the command he had ordered. It was then that Pikachu was charging up its cheeks again.
"Tackle it head on!"
That's when Red noticed.
"Wait Pikachu! It's a trap! Dodge left."
But just like before, the yellow mouse ignored its trainer's orders and went straight for a lightning attack. It would be hell on Kanto before he followed any trainer.
"Pi-i-i-i-ka… Chu-u-u-u!" Electricity was sent flying towards its opponent.
"Aha! Dodge to your right and give it a Tackle!"
Eevee did as it was told. It dodges Pikachu's bolt before it even connected. It aimed for Pikachu and sent it backwards.
"He's not listening…" Red muttered silently to himself. Green was already working in near-synch with his Pokémon. Being caught fresh in the wild indeed had its disadvantages.
Pikachu managed to struggle back up. Red crouched down beside it and whispered:
"You don't want to lose now do you?"
Pikachu, somehow understood, gave a snort (of sorts) and ignored its trainer. It went ahead to Tackle its opponent. Red can only give himself a sigh.
"Eevee, dodge its attack and give it a Tail Whip!" The result came in Green's favor.
Pikachu was shuddering; the previous move was too ticklish.
"Good! Eevee, finish it off before it has a chance to recover!"
Eevee came charging at the yellow mouse. If this connects, it would be all over.
"If you want to win we have to work together Pikachu!" This seemed to have caught the mouse's attention as an ear perked up towards Red.
"Jump up and give it a Slam!"
Pikachu gave a 'scowling' expression. For the first time in Pikachu's life, it had followed a human's command. But it had little choice; its pride won't stand losing. Pikachu took one breath, leapt up, curled, positioned itself, and made gravity do its job.
The attack hits, crushing Eevee on the floor.
For a while, both Pokémon where lying on the ground. Even though Pikachu was never hit by the incoming attack, its body had already given in. In addition to the Slam it just executed. Given another situation, it would have shrugged it off, but not this time. The combination of the Tackles, Tail Whip, and gravity; as it came crashing down its opponent, was too much.
After a moment. Eevee slowly stood up while Pikachu stayed down. Green had won.
"Eevee, return." Green held out his ball, sucking in the Pokémon.
"Am I great or what?" Green finished, raising both of his arms up in shoulder level.
"How… disappointing" Oak said in the background. "When you lose you have to give money to the opposing player."
Red began reaching for his wallet, but Oak stopped him midway.
"No, I'll do it. Since this one came without warning." Oak held out cash and gave it to Green.
"But out there I won't be able to help you out so often, so you better get stronger."
Red only gave a nod. He was disappointed that he lost, but it was not a total loss. Pikachu had followed his final command. It was a small achievement, but at least he was going somewhere with. They'll be in synch in no time. Red allowed a smile to escape him, but only just.
"What are happy about?" Green noticed.
"You do know you just lost right? Weird…" He followed it with a shake of his head.
"Well, I have to go toughen up my Pokémon." Green started to head for the exit.
"Red! Gramps! Smell ya later!" He finished with a wave of his hand.
And he was gone.
Pikachu was given a Revive by the professor. It was slowly getting up; it had a look of disappointment. Red could sympathize.
"That's alright. We'll get him next time."
Red's eyes had the fierce look of determination but somehow were complimented with a slight smile of compassion. This made Pikachu wince a little. It had lost a fight, but its trainer wasn't mad. Surely he was up for something; especially after seeing a previous trainer clad in pure black jumpsuit hurt its Pokémon just a week ago. It also didn't help that this guy was wearing a black shirt.
Red pulled out his Poke ball to recall Pikachu, but the mouse pushed the object away; refusing it.
"Would you look at that?" Oak mused behind him.
"It's odd but it seems that your Pikachu dislikes being inside its Poke ball. You should keep it like that. It will be happier this way."
Red nodded. He liked the idea. Their teamwork could still use a lot of work. Putting this little guy in a small container is not going to help with that.
Red gave a slight bow back at Prof. Oak and motioned Pikachu to follow him.
The mouse seemed relieved that its trainer would not force him back into the Poke ball. It could learn to like this trainer yet.
Pikachu had followed Red outside. This seemed to make the trainer glad. At least it was trusting him a bit now.
Red decided that it would be best to head home for now. It was nearing noon and mom might have made lunch. He wasn't going anywhere at the moment. Besides, it would be good to show his mother a small yellow surprise.
