A/N: Alright, everyone. Here is chapter four, the last of the prologue chapters. It's a little shorter than my usual 10,000+ word chapters, but you can only cram so much into a short boat trip. It does have a couple of important plot points, though...for later, and some good amourshipping. Please enjoy the chapter!
I think this question needs to be addressed at the top of the chapter because it gets asked a lot...
Yes. I know. I always refer to a Pokemon as "IT". I'm completely aware of it and do it on purpose. It's just the type of style I do for my story. That doesn't mean that every Pokemon in the story is genderless. Just look at my profile for proof on Ash and Serena's Pokemon genders. I just find that sometimes it's easier to write "It" than keep track of the gender of every single Pokemon in the story and slip up.
Disclaimer: I don't own Pokemon
Chapter 4: Onward to the Orange Islands!
It was the evening time right now on the Old Shore Wharf near Pallet Town. Besides Vermillion City and Fuchsia City, this was the only place in Kanto where one could set off by ship or boat, mainly drawing in the people of Pallet Town, Viridian City, or Pewter City. It wasn't necessarily a city, but there were a few basic stores and a Pokemon Center to supply trainers with their needs while they waited for their ships to depart.
Serena, Leaf, and Misty stood on the shoreline of Old Shore Wharf as they looked off into the ocean. It brought back quite the memory. The last time they were at this place was when they were going to New Island where the supposed greatest trainer lived. Of course, it turned out to just be a ploy by Mewtwo in its plot to rid the world of mankind. Thanks to Ash's sacrifice, the hostile Pokemon's eyes were opened that showed there was some good in humans. It then left to an unknown place where it and the clones it made could live in peace, its parting words being it will help the group if the need ever arose. The group couldn't help but wonder where Mewtwo was and how it was doing right now.
"This place is so much calmer since the last time we were here," Misty commented.
"Yeah, but there isn't a massive storm here like the last time," Leaf reminded.
"I meant it's sort of strange. That was the only time we've ever been here, and it's such a huge change from then," Misty elaborated.
"You know, I almost wonder if New Island is still there. Do you think we will see it on the boat heading to the Orange Islands?" Leaf wondered out loud.
"I actually doubt it. It wouldn't surprise me if Mewtwo erased it completely when it brought us back here," Misty answered. Honestly, she and Leaf didn't really want to see the island again. It brought back to many unsettling memories.
The two girls then turned to where Serena was to see if she had any input. The honey blonde-haired girl had been oddly quiet since they had been staring at the ocean. The truth was she had many thoughts running through her head. She had just come back from the Pokemon Center after trading over here Nidorina for Fearow's pokeball. It appeared as if she were contemplating on letting it out so soon. Serena had promised herself she would, but the past with Fearow was still fresh in everyone's minds, including Fearow itself.
"Serena?" Leaf asked.
"I'm fine, Leaf. I'm just thinking about how my first real time with Fearow will be. I'd prefer it if everyone was here before I let it out, particularly Ash," Serena replied.
"Yeah. Those two have a lot of bad blood between them from what I could tell," Leaf said.
It was at that moment that one of the doors to the general store opened up behind the girls. They turned and saw Ash and Brock stepping out carrying many bags of groceries. Togepi and Pikachu were on Ash's shoulder. Ash seemed to be quite pleased with the amount of supplies they had while Brock looked somewhat annoyed. Why did they buy so much?
"Hey, girls! We're back!" Ash announced once he and Brock reached them.
"Uh huh," Brock grunted.
"This should last us until we reach Valencia Island," Ash continued.
"Wait. You two bought all of that for a ten hour trip?" Misty questioned as she raised one of her eyebrows.
"Of course! From what I heard, the boat we're going on won't be serving any decent meals so we have to eat snacks!" Ash reasoned.
"Yes, but this boat leaves in the evening so we'll be asleep for most of that time anyway!" Misty argued.
"That's what I tried to tell him, Misty, but we all know how Ash's stomach is," Brock piped up
"Well, you may not need that much to eat, but I do," Ash said.
"Oh really? Let's see what you bought then," Misty said as she went over to the bags the boys were holding and peaked in them.
"Chips, doughnuts, cookies. Those are fine if not a little overdoing it, and then…two frozen pizzas? Really?" Misty questioned as she looked at Ash incredulously. That was only the first two bags! She hadn't even looked at what Brock was carrying yet! This must be what happens when Ash is given grocery duties for the first time. Brock apparently didn't convince him enough about what was necessary and what wasn't.
"Okay. If we have any left over, at least this means we won't have to shop for a while. Besides, I think Togepi enjoyed its first shopping trip with its dad," Ash replied as he smiled at the baby Pokemon on his shoulder.
"Togeprriii!" Togepi chirped as it bounced up and down. It had gotten much better at balancing on Ash's shoulder recently. In fact, that was its preferred method of travel when it was with Ash. It seemed to be wanting to mimic its big brother, Pikachu. The yellow rodent still made sure to reach over and steady Togepi when it bounced to make sure an accident didn't happen.
"Don't worry, Ash. I'll help you finish off those snacks so nothing goes to waste!" Leaf told him.
"Great! If nobody else wants them, then that leaves more for us!" Ash grinned back.
"Whatever," Misty replied with a roll of her eyes. One would think Ash and Leaf really were twins sometimes.
"The boat doesn't leave for another hour so we'll have time to sort out all of this food before we leave," Brock said as the voice of reason, causing everyone to shrug their shoulders. In the end, it really wasn't that big of a deal.
"So Serena? Did you get Fearow's pokeball?" Ash asked as he set down the bags of groceries and began to sort through which ones were more practical. Serena could tell he was trying to sound interested, but there was a bit of hesitation in his voice.
"I have it, Ash, but don't worry. I don't think Fearow is going to attack you at first sight," Serena reassured before adding, "I won't let it."
"I know," Ash replied as he smiled at Serena, but he was still a little nervous.
Serena looked back at Fearow's pokeball one more time. All she had to do was prove to Fearow that they cared. They needed to show it that it was so much more than the trash it believed itself to be before. They could do this. Serena then took a deep breath and prepared herself.
"Okay. Come out, Fearow!" she called as she pressed the button to release it.
Upon hearing her command, everyone's attention immediately went to where Fearow would land. Serena and Ash stood in front of Togepi while Pikachu stood next to it, although Ash was a little further back.
The light materialized until it took the shape of Fearow, and the beak Pokemon opened its eyes and looked at its surroundings. It could see the group all looking at it in curiosity. Well, it seemed like Serena kept her promise to see it as soon as possible. It could see the black-haired boy watching it in a somewhat nervous fashion. Well, it wouldn't spoil things by attacking him. Fearow just ignored Ash as it set its eyes on Serena, wondering what her next move was.
"Hi, Fearow!" Serena said brightly. "Brock made some special Pokemon food. Would you like to try some?"
Brock. Wasn't he the other boy who helped it also when it was injured? He seemed to know a lot about how a Pokemon feels. Yes. It could eat food that was made by him.
"Brock makes really good food. His is probably some of the best you'll ever have in your life!" Serena added.
"Well, I don't know about that," Brock chuckled as he rubbed the back of his head.
Fearow seemed to be thinking over what Serena said. Well, it was quite hungry at the moment. It hadn't eaten since Serena captured it several hours ago. It could definitely eat something. If Brock cooked as good as Serena said he did, there was nothing wrong with accepting any. It nodded its head.
"Great!" Serena replied upon seeing Fearow's nod.
She then reached into her backpack and pulled out some of the Pokemon food Brock had made for her. She got out a napkin and placed the napkin on the ground with the food on top. She then gave a smile and nod to it to show it could go ahead and try it. She then motioned for everyone to back away a little bit to give Fearow some space.
Once it saw that everyone was accepting its space, it leaned down towards the ground and began to eat. Its eyes then lit up in surprise. This stuff was actually pretty good! It hasn't had food this good in…well…its whole life!
"Hey. I'm glad you like it, Fearow. It's my best recipe for any bird Pokemon. All of them enjoy it so I made sure to save some for you now that you're a member of the team," Brock told it.
A member of the team. Yes. That's right. It now had a trainer. It was no longer by itself. The group really was considering it as one of them. Even so, it thought the same thing with the Spearow gang, and they were even one of its kind! Fearow thought it was one of them also, but it turned out to be a lie. Was this group lying to it, too? Then again, the Spearow gang never seemed to show care for each other, either.
As Fearow continued to eat, it saw out of the corner of its eye the Pikachu that belonged to the boy. It had ran up the boy's back and began to nuzzle his face which Ash laughed to and scratched it behind the ears. It then saw the baby Togepi hugging Serena's legs to which she packed it up and hugged it back. The affection that was being shown to the Pokemon before it reminded Fearow of what it didn't have before. It's why it wanted a trainer. It was so it could be loved, also. It started to have a few tears come to its eyes again.
"Fearow? What's wrong?" Serena asked in concern as she saw its tears.
"I don't think Fearow is used to being treated kindly so it might be a little overwhelming for it," Brock answered as he crossed his arms.
"Oh, Fearow. You don't have to worry. If I'm overwhelming you just let me know," Serena said in concern.
Fearow shook its head in response. It wanted its trainer to show it kindness. It's like that Brock person said, it just wasn't used to seeing something like that. It was just with two other Pokemon, too! Fearow didn't know what to expect when all of the group's Pokemon were out. It was probably acting a little pathetic, but it couldn't help itself.
"Poor Fearow," Leaf muttered as she watched.
Serena then took a step forward and slowly reached her hand out towards Fearow's head. She then rested it top of it and began to rub it. Fearow had more tears come to its eyes as it felt its trainer's soft touch. She was being so nice to it despite all the bad history between them. She really was sincere when she told it she was going to make sure it was never alone again.
The rest of the group smiled at the exchange. It seemed there would be hope for Fearow, after all.
The boat gave a loud whistle as it set sail for Valencia Island. It churned through the waters creating a few small waves as it went along. The group all stood at the edge of the boat as they watched the Kanto mainland grow further and further away. For Ash, Leaf, Brock, and Misty, this would be their first time truly out of the region of Kanto. Only Serena had been to another region, and that was when she lived in Kalos previously. It was rather exciting for them.
"Well, guys. It looks like this is the start of something new," Ash said as they watched.
"We aren't just going there to get a pokeball for Professor Oak?" Misty asked.
"Well, he also said that if we find something interesting that will help our training to go ahead and do it," Ash replied.
"Ah, so you kids are all Pokemon trainers then?" a voice came up behind them.
They spun around and saw a thin older man with a gray goatee. He head on an old sailor's uniform and appeared a little worn out, but he still had a kind smile on his face. The hat he was wearing clearly indicated he was the captain of the ship.
"Uh…yes. We are," Ash answered, wondering where the man was going with this.
"Forgive me. I wasn't trying to listen in. I just overheard as I like to check to make sure all my passengers are comfortable before I take over the ship. One of my crew is steering right now," the sailor said.
"Yes. We're fine. Thank you," Serena replied with a smile
"As I was saying, if you kids are focusing on training your Pokemon, the Orange Islands are a great place to go!" the captain told them.
"Really?" Ash inquired as he became interested. The rest of the group gave the captain their attention also.
"That's right. They have many water Pokemon tournaments there regularly," the captain replied.
"Water Pokemon tournaments?!" Misty exclaimed enthusiastically and clasped her hands together. "Oooooh! I would love to participate in one of those!"
"What else is there?" Ash wondered.
"Hahaha! Now I have your interest!" the ship captain laughed before continuing, "A thing that seems to have really taken off in the Orange Islands recently is Pokevision."
"Pokevision? What's that?" Serena asked.
"It's a special kind of promotional video that people use to show the bonds they have with their Pokemon. It actually came from the region of Kalos. A famous actress on vacation from Kalos was caught doing it, and pretty soon, more people wanted to try it," the sailor answered.
"Kalos? How did it become so popular all the way in the Orange Islands since they are a little isolated? That doesn't sound like something it would specialize in," Serena wondered as she thought about it.
"Well, the way I look at it, that's exactly why it's taken off there. You see, people in the Orange Islands don't really travel a whole lot. They typically stay at the island they grew up on and don't leave because all of the islands are spread apart so much. If someone is determined enough, the only way they can promote themselves and capture attention is by Pokevision," the captain elaborated.
"So are these videos played around the world?" Leaf asked.
"They can be. They are typically shown at the Pokemon Centers in the Orange Islands and Kalos, but I've heard several passengers who live in the Orange Islands say that they're trying to expand into the other regions like Kanto. It wouldn't surprise me if those videos are being shown in other areas within the next year," the sailor said.
"Videos that show the bonds you have with your Pokemon," Serena mused as she looked at her own pokeballs. She was always wanting to improve the relationship she had with her Pokemon. Sure, she loved every last one of them, but whenever she saw Ash and his Pokemon, she almost felt like she was missing something with hers. Maybe it was personal training sessions? She wasn't sure, but if these Pokevision videos were genuine, it would be a great way to bond with her Pokemon, particularly the newest member of her team, Fearow.
"The biggest thing right now in the Orange Islands, though, is the Orange League," the captain said, drawing attention back to him.
"The Orange League? Is that like the Indigo League?" Ash asked.
"Well, I guess you could call it that. It's a lot smaller than an actual Pokemon League, though. The way it works is that trainers go around battling a special group of four trainers known as the Orange Crew scattered across the archipelago. You could call them the Orange League equivalent of gym leaders, and they give out badges if you win against them," The captain explained.
"So what happens when you get all of the badges? Do you compete in a Pokemon League?" Leaf asked this time.
"It's sort of like a Pokemon League, but it's different at the same time. The gym leaders don't have your standard Pokemon battles, either. Being a smaller tournament, the Orange League is held once every six months rather than a year. Once trainers earn all badges from the Orange Crew, they will compete against each other in an elimination tournament at the Pummelo Stadium," the captain said.
"An elimination tournament?" Ash echoed.
"Yes. The winner gets to compete against the Orange League champion. If he or she wins, they have officially conquered the Orange League and win a commemorative trophy and plaque. They then have their names carved in the Orange Island Hall of Fame so they are always remembered," the captain finished.
Everyone, especially Ash, was interested now. They had no idea a place as small as the Orange Archipelago could have its own Pokemon League. The other four in the group gave a small smile at Ash with how fired up he appeared to be. He had been wanting to really start training his Pokemon to their best capabilities. Maybe a tournament like the Orange League would get him back on his feet and help out some.
"Wow. It sounds like you have to be really skilled to win in the Orange League," Misty commented.
"I know exactly what you're thinking, Misty," Ash said as he turned his hat backwards and put on a determined expression. "I have to challenge the Orange Crew and compete in the Orange League! There's no way I can pass up an opportunity like this!"
"Heheh. Yeah. That's exactly what I was thinking," Misty muttered with a sweat drop. Despite here words, she knew Ash would never back down from this type of challenge even if it wasn't what they were going to the Orange Islands for in the first place. She really had no room to talk, though. She wanted to see what this water Pokemon tournament was, and there was a certain red-haired boy she wanted to see.
"Well, I think I filled you kids in enough. I have to get to steering the boat. Enjoy the ride," the captain said with a nod before walking off.
As he left, the group had different thoughts running through their minds. Now the Orange Islands sounded more exciting than ever. There were so many things do there aside from the normal tourist attractions. They sounded like a great place to train and bond with your Pokemon, too. Still, the group couldn't help but start to feel a bit bad. Professor Oak was generous enough to pay for their trip here to retrieve the GS ball, and that seemed to be the furthest thing from their minds right now. They were about to lose sight of the mission. They had to make sure the GS ball was the top priority here and constantly check with Professor Oak to see what he thought of everything.
"Hey, Brocko. I'm heading outside the cabin to see Serena. It's been a while since we've had time with just the two of us," Ash called over his shoulder.
"No worries, Ash. I'll make sure to get Togepi to bed on time," Brock smiled back. "Pikachu, Togepi, and I will have a blast together!"
"Togepriiiii!" Togepi cried as it attempted to chase after Ash. Its short legs caused it to wobble horribly until it reached him
"It seems like someone doesn't want me to go, though," Ash muttered as he looked at Togepi hugging his leg affectionately. It really wanted to make Ash take it with him. Now that Ash thought of it, this would be one of the first times when Togepi was separated from both him and Serena. It would have its first babysitter. Still, Ash couldn't think of a better person to leave it with than Brock. Misty and Leaf were coming in a little bit, too. That would just add to the fun.
"Pika Pi. Pikachu," Pikachu said as it walked up to Togepi and rubbed its back.
Togepi turned around and had watery eyes that both of its parents wouldn't be here. It really was good at making Ash start to feel a little guilty. He knew Serena would, too, if she found out. Maybe they shouldn't have some alone time just yet as much as they wanted, too. Having a pseudo baby to take care of really complicated things like this.
"Hey, Togepi. If you really want me to stay, I can," Ash told it with warm smile.
"Togepriiii!" it cried again, though this time in a happy tone.
"In that case, who wants to take a ride on the Pokemon airplane!?" Brock started as he went over to Togepi and picked it up. He then held Togepi above his head and went quickly around the room making zooming noises.
Pikachu then ran over and began making tiny static bolts shoot from its cheeks that went up towards the ceiling.
"Oh no. It looks like a thunderstorm is coming! Pilot Togepi needs some evasive maneuvers!" Brock cried jokingly as he began to dip Togepi and twirl it through the air. The spikeball Pokemon began to laugh joyfully at the amount of fun it was having.
Brock and Pikachu then turned to Ash and gave slight nod at him to go on. The raven-haired boy was slightly grateful at the two for saving the day and keeping Togepi occupied. It would be just fine, and of course, he and Serena would be sure to make it up to Togepi in due time. Ash still wanted to be sure Togepi would be fine before he left.
"Are you alright with me going, Togepi?" Ash called to it as Brock continued to pretend like Togepi was flying in an airplane.
"Togepriiiiii!" it laughed again and showed no signs that it was upset.
It was that response that comforted Ash that everything would be fine. He sighed in contentment to himself before opening the cabin door and exiting into the small hallway.
As Ash made his way onto the deck, he smiled when he saw it was only Serena was out here. It would almost have ruined the mood if there were any other passengers out here. It was a good idea to come out here after nine o'clock. It also helped that it was a clear night with stars shining and the moon glowing above their heads. A few small lights around the boat lit up the ocean, showing the ripples it created as the boat moved along.
Serena was sitting alone at a table with a bottle of water and appearing to be in thought. Her look vanished the instant she saw Ash, however. She got up from the table and greeted him with a gentle hug around the neck and a light kiss on the cheek. Despite how happy she was they were finally going to spend time together, one thought plagued her mind.
"So how is Togepi managing without one of us there?" she asked.
"Honestly, I think it's going to be just fine. Brock and Pikachu were playing with it when I left. I don't even think it noticed me leave," Ash replied.
Serena's worry dissolved upon hearing that. Togepi had been their number one concern about whether they should spend time alone or not. The spikeball Pokemon was still very young and extremely dependent on Ash and Serena. It needed one of them around at all times. The fact that it was now able to at least have a babysitter when its "parents" weren't around proved that Togepi was growing up ever so slowly, just as Cubone had at first. It made both of them feel a lot better. They were doing a fine job at raising Togepi.
"So did you spend any more time with Fearow?" Ash asked, changing the subject.
"I did. I let it stretch its wings and fly next to the ship for about thirty minutes which it seemed to enjoy," Serena answered before adding, "I think you should have let Pidgeot fly with it. I know they don't have the best history, but I think the two may be able to bond quite well as being the bird Pokemon in our group."
"Hmm," Ash mused as he thought about Pidgeot. It was true Fearow didn't want anything to do with Ash right now, but his Pidgeot would get a chance to start anew. Next time Serena lets out her Fearow, he'll do the same with Pidgeot to at least see how it goes. Maybe one day after accepting his Pokemon, Fearow will accept him, too. It's not like it was jealous anymore.
"I think I will," Ash finally said as he and Serena turned back towards the ocean.
The two then walked over and watched the waters in silence. They were just enjoying each other's company at the moment. Ash spared a glance at Serena and couldn't help but think she looked really pretty right now. The ocean breeze flowing through her hair and the glow of the moon and small lights reflecting off of her only added to her beauty. Ash really enjoyed these moments when he could just stop and appreciate what a great girlfriend he had.
"So what do you want to do?" Serena asked as she broke the silence.
"I was thinking of what a great night this is. We also haven't danced together in a while. I think a dance under the stars would be appropriate," Ash said.
Serena smiled at Ash's suggestion. She was pleasantly surprised that it had been Ash and not her to come up with a suggestion like that. It seemed that now he was getting a little older that he was losing some of his denseness. She could remember at the start of their journey that a suggestion like this would never come out of his mouth. His idea of great time with Serena would be talking about Pokemon or having a Pokemon battle. As much as Serena loved Pokemon, too, it didn't exactly make for a romantic setting. Serena was about to accept Ash's proposal, but soon frowned.
"We don't have any music playing right now on the ship," she stated in a slightly disappointed tone.
"Then we can use our Pokegear to set the mood," Ash suggested as pulled the device out of his pocket.
"The Pokegear can play music like that?" Serena inquired as she raised an eyebrow.
"I wouldn't see why not. Brock told me it acts as full radio," Ash shrugged.
He then began to fiddle with the device as he tried to find where the radio was on it. Perhaps it wouldn't have hurt to read the manual for this thing. Ash finally found where to turn on the radio and pressed the button. As soon as it turned on, a happy, cheerful sound erupted from it, and it sounded like drums were beating and all kinds of strange sounds were being made. Ash and Serena both sweat dropped.
"Heheheh. I guess this must be the Pokemon March," Ash chuckled as he changed the station.
He then continued to change stations as he tried to find something that was slow. He went through talk shows and several happy beats. Finally, Ash smiled as he found the station he wanted. It was a slow tune that seemed to fit the starry sky and full moon perfectly. Ash turned up the volume just a little bit and set it down on the table before making his way over to Serena. He then held his hand out to her which she graciously accepted.
Ash then gently pulled Serena against his front before placing a hand on her back. Serena then wrapped her hands around Ash's neck as she stared lovingly into Ash's eyes. As the two began to slow dance, Serena had a blush creeping up her face. It seems that upon getting a girlfriend, Ash really stepped up his game when the time called for him to be romantic. He still had his slip ups every now and then, but if anything, Serena thought it was cute. Serena then rested her head on Ash's shoulder and closed her eyes so she could get lost in the moment.
"You know, I think this is the first dance we've actually had by ourselves when no one else was around, except for the one in the Big Riddle Inn's lobby," Ash commented after a moment of silence.
"Mmmhmm, but under the stars surrounded by the ocean is so much better," Serena mumbled back with her head still on Ash's shoulder.
"So what do think about heading to the Orange Islands?" Ash asked her, changing the subject.
"Well, I thought there would be a lot of things we could try while we were there if we ever have a chance to ourselves again," Serena replied.
"Like what?" Ash asked curiously. Despite knowing how to be romantic, he still had trouble knowing what is romantic. That was Serena's expertise.
"It doesn't necessarily have to be romantic," Serena said as if reading his thoughts. "There are supposed to be a lot of Pokemon shows in the Orange Islands and also the Pokevision like the captain told us. I bet there are also a lot of restaurants that serve food that no other place does. Those are good, too. I wouldn't want you to get bored of us just dancing or taking walks on the beach all the time."
"Heheheh. Good point," Ash replied. It was true that he loved spending time with Serena, but he was starting to run out of ideas already to keep their relationship fresh. Thankfully, the Orange Islands opened up more possibilities. He was sure more things would come to him later on.
The two continued to dance for a few more minutes until the music that was playing had stopped. Ash and Serena then pulled two chairs from the table Serena was at earlier towards the edge of the boat. They then sat in the chairs and opted for watching the wide ocean view together. It had a nice glow to it.
After a few minutes, Serena leaned her head on Ash's shoulder once more and grabbed his arm for support. She then snuggled up next to him to get more comfortable before sighing in contentment.
For Ash, however, his thoughts were starting to wander. Despite how relaxed he felt, he suddenly found himself thinking about that weird dream he had yesterday. He knew his dad told him not to, but it was still too fresh in his head to forget about so soon…no. He couldn't think about this. This was a time for just Serena and him! There was no way he was going to let this night with her be ruined. They are just relaxing! Why is he even thinking about this to begin with?! Ash forcefully pushed the dream from his mind before leaning his head over Serena's.
Upon feeling Ash's head rest upon hers, Serena let out a blissful smile. She unknowingly tightened her grip on Ash's arm. It wasn't for a strange reason, she just felt so happy and having a firm grip on Ash's arm made her feel so secure. That was until she felt Ash flinch.
She looked up at Ash and saw he was wearing a normal expression on his face which showed that nothing could be wrong. Still, what was with that flinch? She hadn't hugged him that hard.
"Ash?" she questioned.
Ash, meanwhile, mentally kicked himself. Here he was, having a great evening with Serena, but she had have his arm in a tight grip while he was still thinking about his dream. The truth was it reminded him too much of their positions when they were facing the clouded figure. The fact that Serena had his arm in a tight grip only made him think about when she was absolutely terrified, and he involuntarily flinched at that. Normally, it would have no effect, but right now, it did. He immediately tried to hide it, but Serena saying his name clearly meant she felt something off. He didn't think this would spoil anything, but Serena would still want to know if something was bothering him. Great.
"It was just something stupid. Sorry if I startled you any," Ash replied with a reassuring smile.
"I think it was me who startled you. Did I squeeze your arm too hard?" Serena asked with just a bit of hesitation.
"No. You were fine. It was all me," Ash answered and then mentally kicked himself again. With that kind of answer, Serena really would know something was up.
"Ash, I believe you when you said it wasn't anything I did, but is something bothering you?" Serena wondered as she looked at him with slight worry.
Ash let out a sigh. The truth was it shouldn't be. He felt really stupid all of the sudden. Despite this, he knew if he told her it was nothing again, he would be lying to her. The fact was the dream had now come to the surface of his mind now that he was being asked about it. Still, if he told Serena, that would be completely going against what Red told him. Why should he worry her with some stupid dream he had?
"I just had a bad dream yesterday, and for some reason, it came to my mind. I don't know why. Sorry to worry you," Ash smiled again, hoping that was the end of it and they could move on. That was until Serena said her next sentence.
"I had a bad dream last night, too," Serena replied.
Ash snapped his head back in Serena's direction and saw her fixing him with a firm gaze. Wait a second. She had a bad dream, too? That was just some weird coincidence.
"What was it about?" Ash asked her.
"You first. You're the one who started this," Serena told him.
Ash decided there was no point in starting a quibble over something that probably had no meaning. They could go ahead and share their bad dreams and then continue having a great evening together. He looked away before starting his account of the dream.
"Heh. You're probably going to laugh or think something like this is really out there," Ash said to relieve some of the tension.
"That's okay," Serena reassured.
"Well, it started off great. I was dreaming I had won the Pokemon League. You and Leaf, Brock, Gary, and Misty were all there. So were my parents and Uncle Riley. I had all of my Pokemon around me, and I felt so excited for all of us. Then everything changed. These weird storm clouds rolled in," Ash began before turning back to Serena to see if there was some sort of reaction from her.
To be honest, the expression on Serena's face surprised Ash. He was expecting a raised eyebrow, curiosity, confusion, but what he wasn't expecting was a look of alarm on Serena's face. What was it in his dream that triggered that?
"Storm clouds? Like the scary black ones?" Serena asked, confirming what it was.
"Uh, yeah. Then this really weird thing appeared out of nowhere and stated laughing. It was probably the most evil laugh I ever heard in my life. Not even Giovanni compared to it," Ash continued, but stopped when he felt Serena stumble a little bit.
Ash turned and saw her facing away from him. She looked to be in a lot of thought right now. He hadn't even gotten to the weirdest part of his dream yet! He certainly wasn't expecting his dream to have such an impact on her. Wait. She said that she had a bad dream last night. It couldn't be, could it?
"Serena, are you okay?" Ash asked slowly.
"Ash, there was a really evil clouded figure in my dream, too," she said with bit of fear.
Ash didn't think his eyes could open any wider after that. Serena was having a similar dream to him. That instantly made his thoughts start to go wild. Did this mean that this dream really was going to come true? Did an evil figure like that really exist? This was getting a little freaky. Ash almost forgot what he was supposed to be doing with Serena as he gave her his full attention now.
"What did that thing do in your dream?" Ash almost demanded.
Serena initially appeared surprised by Ash's tone, but she answered him nonetheless. "At first, I was having such a good time. All my friends were there. I think I might have even been doing Pokemon performing, and then the figure appeared, and I was so afraid of it, and I don't know why."
"In the dream I had, you were really afraid of it, also," Ash told her, trying to soften his tone a little.
"The worst part was that it blasted all of my friends with some kind of blue energy, and it killed you right in front of me, and I was unable to save you," Serena continued as her eyes watered. "I didn't do anything. I just watched."
Ash frowned at that. There was nobody who was killed in the dream he had. Everyone was in danger, but they were still alive and well. It was kind of uneasy to learn that he was the one who was killed in her dream. Was it because he was closest to her, or because of something else?
"That's not even the worst part," Serena said as she began to cry. "After that thing…killed you, it looked at me, and then all of my fear disappeared. It was replaced by calmness. It wasn't…the comforting kind at all, though. It then said something really strange."
"Did it say the world was dying?" Ash asked after a slight pause.
Serena's teary eyes looked up at Ash as she nodded her head. "That's exactly what it said. How did you know?"
"As I just told you, I had a similar dream with what was most likely the same figure," Ash said.
"At first I just brushed it off as some bad dream. Now that I know you had it, I'm a little scared," Serena told him.
Ash didn't really know what to think right now. He knew that his dad told him not to tell anyone, but maybe it was good to tell Serena. The fact that she had the same dream had to mean something. Red had said to Ash that if it was a possible symbolization of something that was to happen, it would be because his aura allowed it. As Ash thought about, Serena had psychic abilities hidden just like he had with aura. Those would allow her to have prophetic dreams, too. Should he tell his dad this? No. Not quite yet.
"Ash, why would I be so scared of something, and then all of the sudden be calmed by it," Serena asked in confusion.
"I-I really don't know," Ash admitted. "Do you know anything like that?"
Serena wracked her brain as to anything that could make sense of what was in her dream, but she came up short. It was the most evil thing she ever experienced in a dream or life, and why did it seem to take an interest in her? Why was she calm at the end? It didn't make sense!
Ash sighed as he saw Serena was getting quite distressed about this topic. The truth was he was getting downed, as well. This was supposed to be a relaxing night with Serena, and they were anything but that right now. It looked like they had talked about this long enough. They know they shared the same dream, but now it might be time to put it behind them for the time being. It's as his dad said, none of this had happened yet. Ash then reached over and gently brushed a few tears out of her eyes before saying his next sentence.
"Hey, Serena. Don't worry about what I asked. I don't want you to think about this anymore," he said soothingly. "I know it's my fault that I brought it up, but I don't like seeing you upset like this."
"We had the same dream, though. It has to mean something," Serena said as she tried to dry a few tears of her own.
"I know, but I spoke with my dad about this yesterday after I had the dream. He told me that if this dream were to come true, it wouldn't happen until everything there happened. There were people I didn't even know in my dream, and I had even won a Pokemon League!" Ash told her.
"Yeah, and I was doing Pokemon Performing…I think," Serena muttered
"See. That's what I mean. This is a long way away from ever coming true so let's not worry about it," Ash said as he reached over and gave her a hug of comfort this time.
Serena welcomed it and hugged Ash back. Maybe he was right. It would be for the best if they didn't think about it. There were some parts of the dream that didn't make sense like why she didn't try to save Ash or why she felt calm at the end. Serena knew she would just worry herself more and hurt her head trying to think about it so much. For now, though, she would enjoy herself and stay by Ash no matter what. Everything would be okay in the end.
Ash was glad that Serena was feeling better now. That conversation was taking a very dangerous turn. He and Serena were getting so worked up over something that obviously wasn't going to happen anytime soon. For now, they should just follow Red's advice and not think about anymore unless necessary. Despite this, he still learned some valuable information about Serena having a similar dream to him. With that in mind, Ash still wondered if the dream were to ever happened, would he be prepared for it? Would Serena? Anyone?
He hoped so.
That's the last mention of the dreams Ash and Serena had for a while. I've given you all something to chew on for a while until it's brought up next when more hints are revealed. There is A LOT of background to cover with this which is why I started it quite early in the series.
So far, the polls are pretty one sided. There are substantially more guys than girls who read this story. That isn't a bad thing of course, but it does make me wonder what makes this story appealing to everyone. Hey! That could be my idea for the next poll!
Next chapter will be up on July 5. The real story will finally begin as they land on the Orange Islands! See you all then! Live long and prosper!
Chapter 5: Professor Ivy and the GS Ball
Answering the Questions (Slight Spoilers)
Will Ash get his Lapras and/or Snorlax differently from the main canon?
A little bit different
Will Ash and the crew be switching pokemon regularly?
As stated before, yes.
Will any of Brock or Misty's Pokemon evolve?
If you mean in this arc, then no.
Will ash catch an orange island shiny pokemon?
No.
Will The Crystal Onix be showing up in this story?
No.
How many evolutions will be in this arc?
Maybe 1 or 2 besides Pidgeot. I haven't fully decided yet.
Will Serena have something to do whilst Ash does the Orange League?
Yes.
Will there be a rival for Ash in the Orange Islands?
No. The Orange Islands are too short to form an appropriate rival.
Will Lawrence the Third have more depth in terms of characters to him?
One of my goals when I do the Power of One is to give that to him.
Also do you expect for Serena to use her psychic powers again and ash use his aura powers this arc ?
Maybe.
Will fearow and scyther ever learn to not hate ash?
Not anytime soon.
Will Fearow start trusting Serena straight away or will it be hard work?
It is slightly hesitant at first like this chapter shows, but it will warm up to her and everyone...even Ash...eventually.
Will Ash ever get a Pokemon that hates Serena?
Yes, but I won't say when.
When did Togepi stop being fed from a bottle?
There wasn't really a specific time I stated when it did. I just feel it's old enough to where it doesn't need it anymore.
When will Snorlax appear?
Later on this arc.
Will Melody be jealous of Ash and Serena's relationship?
Hmmm...I'd rather not answer that yet.
Will Syther and Fearow have anti Ash moments together?
Yeah. I have a few anti Ash moments with them lined up.
Will there be battling in your version of performances?
Haven't decided yet.
Will the GS Ball do anything?
As stated many times before, YES!
Will Tracey get anything new besides scyther?
I haven't thought of an extra Pokemon for him to get yet, but it may happen.
When will Leaf separate from the group after visiting Professor Ivy about the G.S. ball?
After the water Pokemon tournament midway through the arc.
Will Ash still behave like he did in the canon when he goes for his first badge in the Orange Island when the kid insults him?
Well, sort of. You'll just have to see their meeting and decide for yourself.
During your writing of the movie Pokémon Power of One, will you include the Pikachu's Rescue Adventure?
I haven't planned to yet.
Is Rudy going to be crazy hitting on Misty, like in canon?
I don't think of it as "crazy hitting" like Brock does. I didn't even see it like that in canon. He will be formal and Misty likes him back already.
Will Serena be able reading other Pokémon thoughts in this arc?
Maybe.
Will Luana still mistake Ash for her son Travis?
I don't know yet. I haven't ever really considered that minor detail as necessary. We'll see.
Are you planning to write your own version of The Stun Spore Detour?
I'm on the fence about that one. It can create some good amour moments, but in the end, besides Misty getting Poliwag, it's just filler.
