Nightfall arrived and the group spent their first night together with the addition of Erika. She sat near the campfire and smiled lightly, watching the flames flicker back and forth in front of her. Despite the cold temperature, she felt the warmth of the fire and friendship as her other companions all huddled together for warmth to have a simple but delicious dinner over the fire. This was exactly how she pictured her journey to be like when she was younger, friends staying together for warmth and laughter. Granted the number of girls and boys were different but still this was pretty nice.
'This feels nice... it's so simple yet peaceful.' Relaxing her legs, she gave out a content sigh as she stretched them, making sure the yawn didn't escape her mouth. She did had a habit of dozing off, which is quite dangerous if she was alone in the woods. In the corner of her eye, she saw her cacturne talking to Ash's bulbsasaur (who she adore!) in his usual gruff voice. Although her cacturne looks terrifying on the outside, she knew deep down that he is a big softy who is kind hearted and sweet towards other pokemon. Admittedly Erika didn't wanted to own a cacturne, she didn't think that he was attractive or even strong enough to grasp her attention. That's when she met her cacturne. She remember vividly seeing the young cacturne in action for the first time. Swift, elusive and cunning, he took down his seemingly stronger adversaries with no trouble as he risked his own life and stems (Limbs) to protect a group of defenseless oddishes from a group of poison type pokemon.
He took many blows to the areoles (body) but he endured it all and fought back with twice amount of ferocity that they showed him. She remembered the small but genuine smile on his face when he learned that the oddishes were unharmed. That's when she decided to no longer judge a book by it's cover and to learn from her mistakes. Her cacturne in a sense, was the reason for her to reach such maturity at a young age. He taught her a valuable lesson on life, indirectly of course, but she learned to be more respectful and be less arrogant of the things in life.
However becoming his trainer wasn't easy, it took a lot of patience and effort just to get on cacturne's good side but it was well worth it. Now he is one of her most powerful pokemon and trusted friend that she can rely on. It also helps that she was one of the few that saw how sensitive and sweet her cacturne can be, he was definitely adorable when he shows his sweeter side.
"So Ash, what did you and Lance talk about?" Misty's sudden question caused everyone to stare at Ash. The warm marshmallows roasting session suddenly hit a block of painful awkwardness. Ash gave a sheepish smile as he scratched his chin, he was hoping for a quiet or fun a night with his friends without them raising any questions but he knew the question would come up to him eventually. The question now is, should he tell them the truth? Or at least the truth that matters? They ARE his friends! He could trust on them right?
'It's because they are my friends, that I do not want to worry them.' He browsed through his choices, there wasn't much unfortunately.
"Uh well, I don't think you would believe me." Misty gave Ash the look that meant "try me" as she crossed her arms on her chest. She tapped her shoes impatiently and by the looks of it, that question she asked must have plagued her mind the entire day. Answering her question would not doubt be hard, so Ash decided not to sugarcoat it and be honest and direct.
"Lance wants me to become a G-men." Two perplexed looks and a horrified expression were all Ash could see as a answer. In layman terms, not good.
"Ash you- did you say yes!?" Erika shouted loudly, which was very unlike her. Heck the whole forest echoed with her voice, no doubt it caused a great disturbance to the nearby sleeping pokemon. She stared Ash with those same worried and concern eyes he saw just a few hours ago. It brought back all sorts of emotions in Ash, guilt was one of them, among other things. He stuttered he words out as Erika was standing up with her fists held tight, even her own pokemon were surprised and bewildered. They never seen her acted like this before, but they deduced that she acted the way she did because she cares deeply for Ash. It wasn't surprising considering the duo went through a traumatic and life changing experience together, so they stayed quiet and let their trainer do the talking.
"W-Well yeah... is it really that bad?" Erika bit her lower lip and placed her fists close to her chest, a habit when she restrains herself from shouting. She was about to say something but stopped herself from doing so, knowing that this was not the right time for this. Did Ash know what is he getting himself into? She was well aware of a G-men's job and was potentially one of most dangerous job a kid could ever ask for. Did Ash have a fetish for risking his life for others? She shook her head internally, scowling at her thoughts. But deep down she knew that if any 10 year old should take up the job as a G-men, it's Ash. He has the spirit, the conviction and above all the ability. She knew he was more than qualified for the job, she seen it with her own eyes. How he calmly yet positively commanded his pokemon and her's, he displayed great leadership and unyielding resolve through out the ordeal. The odds were against them but Ash was quite the tide turner, and he proved it so. However, deep down she couldn't bear to see Ash get hurt. Not without her by his side...
She walked towards Ash and sat next to him, her sudden closeness to Ash raised eyebrows but no one said anything about it. Erika stared at the boy she only knew less than 24 hours ago, why did she care so much for him? Was it because he risked his life to save her pokemon? Was it because of his kind hearted and selfless nature within him? To put his life on the line to save others? Whatever the reason is, Erika knew that she wouldn't want Ash to get hurt, he was someone important to her. That should be enough of a reason right?
"Ash I know that you want to help people but being a G-men is very risky and dangerous. Are you sure you want to do this?" Erika's voice reminded Ash of the voice of a mother, stern, sweet, authoritative but also worried. He opened his mouth but shut it almost immediately, not wanting to answer her question just yet. Brock and Misty's confused faces however turned into a panicking one, when they heard the word risky and dangerous. What the hell is a G-men? Why is being one so dangerous? And why is Erika so dangerously close to Ash!? Questions were piling on top of questions as a certain red head was getting more annoyed and impatient by the second.
Brock on the other hand noticed the amount of concern in Erika's voice, he didn't want to jump into conclusions but odds are both of the two trainers were attached towards each other. Ash didn't even flinch or backed away when Erika sat next to him so closely. If there were to hold hands, you would think that Erika is the wife who is comforting her husband about his troubles. Brock shook his head, Erika just joined recently, but it WOULD be interesting to see how their relationship play out...
"Uh pardon my interruption but what is a G-men?" Erika sighed, her annoyed looked was only noticed by Ash. He smiled lightly, she did look cute like that. Nice to know that she has some sass though, she definitely showed it when she kicked him out of her gym.
'Are these two really gym leaders? Did they abandoned their duties or are they ignorant about them?' Erika was irked, was it due to their lack of knowledge of their duties as a gym leader or what a G-men actually is? Or was she simply annoyed because she was focusing all her attention on Ash and they interrupted her? Well, it didn't matter. Still siting close to Ash, she absentmindedly shuffled closer towards him and stared at Brock and Misty firmly. Ash didn't bother to move as he was oblivious to her movements, his eyes was fixated on Erika's and good lord were they calming and peaceful to look at. It was like starting at an ocean that has gentle waves that rippled the body of water, it wad calming and harmonious. Erika sighed inwardly, might as well explain the whole thing to the dimwits.
"A G-men is..." After explaining the whole concept of G-men to Brock and Misty, (with the help of Ash's nodding) the former rock type and water type gym leaders's went pale and began to question/abuse Ash. Something which he was entirely prepared for. What he wasn't prepared for however, was the amount of guilt that weighs heavily in his heart.
"Ash what are you thinking?/Idiot what's wrong with you?" The responses were something Ash expected, he calmed Brock down and took Misty's mallet and threw it to the ground with an irritated sigh. He gave them a serious look that instantly shut the two gym leaders up and placed his hands on their shoulders, much to Misty's surprise. The serious and stern look on his face could only meant that Ash was serious on this matter. Which raised all alarms considering Ash was never this serious on something before, other than his dreams of becoming a Pokemon Master that is.
"Look guys I know you all are worried for me, but this is something I want to do! There are many bad people in this world who hurt and abuse pokemon and use them as tools, I want to do my part and stop the suffering. I need your support in this! Don't you want to help stop the bad guys too?" The firm conviction in Ash's words made the situation less tense, pikachu and the others were calmly observing the situation but even pikachu, his best friend couldn't help but to worry for Ash. There was the innocence of a child laced in his voice, yet there was a tone of maturity and seriousness masked behind it as well. Ash's tone was filled with conviction and warmth that caused the pokemon to admire him even further. Knowing that a 10 year old child is willing to risk his life just to protect them, they honestly felt flattered and honoured. Part of them wondered if Ash was thinking straight, or was he blinded by his ideal to make the world a better place.
"But Ash-" Misty stared slowly, her voice was soft and filled with worry. Ash was no fool, he knows that Misty rarely shows her soft side but when she does... it means that she is extremely worried for him or when she feels guilty. Not wanting to get caught with the amount of emotions choking him, Ash raised his voice to hide his raw emotions.
"But nothing! Nothing has really changed! I will still pursue my dream to become a pokemon master and travel around the world! Think of me being a G-men as uh, as uh part time job!" Remembering how Lance explained it to him to ease his worries, Ash hoped that the words he used would caused the others to calm down and accept his decision. Not that their disagreement matters anyway... he is a stubborn kid. He was given the opportunity of a lifetime to be part of something good, he had the taste of it when he brought down Team Rocket and he wanted more.
"Ash... alright then if this is what you want, then so be it." Erika spoke suddenly, causing Ash to looked at her direction. Pikachu took the opportunity to snuggle on Erika's lap, she was scratching the back of his ears softly with her delicate and smooth hands. Her eyes met his and she simply smiled at him, a genuine smile at that. Honestly it was the last thing Ash expected, she was giving him a reassuring smile that meant "I will support you". It had an immediate effect on Ash, seeing the smile alone sooth his anxiety and much of his chalked up stress.
"Really Erika? D-Do you really?" Pikachu jumped off Erika's lap, sensing that Erika wanted to stand. Pikachu eagerly sat next to tangela who was very worried of the current situation, then again he was always the compassionate and understanding pokemon.
Erika gave a simple nod and placed her hand on his shoulder, she blinked her eyes as Ash gave her a curious and hearty smile, before retracting her hand back, blushing and embarrassed. Why did she did that? What on earth did she think it was a good idea to put her hand on Ash's shoulder in front of everyone?!
"G-Good night Ash." Erika hastily entered her tent, probably cursing her actions just now. Ash was as clueless as ever, he wasn't sure what to make of her actions just now but it was kinda nice. Her hand was warm and soft and it kinda made him feel better. He gingerly shifted his gaze from Erika's tent and towards his other two companions, one was grinning while the other wasn't so pleased.
Seeing Erika has decided to turn in for the night, Brock felt the need to say something to ease up the tension in the air. Was he really okay with his best friend being a G-men? Part of him reassured the other part of him, that Ash is capable person and with them by his side, they could pull it through.
'He just need our support, and he needs our support. We can't abandoned him, not after we bonded and become friends with him. He is an amazing person that deserve our support, G-men or not. I can't say no and abandoned him.' Brock knew that the road to the distortion world is often paved with the best intentions. So he is going to watch Ash like a fearow.
"Alright Ash, you got me in on this one." Brock chuckled when Ash smiled brightly, he scratched the back of his neck, a habit he picked up from Ash. Maybe he did made the right decision, Ash is a mature kid and after the whole experience he was sure Ash could handle the task and responsibilities better than anyone. Maybe Lance also saw something in Ash as well? If the Kanto Champion of all people chose Ash for this then surely he is up to the task.
"Misty?" Ash asked softly, wanting to know her opinion on the matter. Her eyes met his and the tough and tomboyish girl he knew wasn't there, instead it was a look that Ash only saw once before in Misty, she looked vulnerable and even fragile, like a flower. He wasn't sure if it's a good thing or a bad thing but he knew if he had some sort of feeling towards her he would have run up and hold her in his arms. Though he only saw her as an older sister.
"Just be careful Ash." Her voice was barely above a mere whisper, Misty bit her lower lip and went into her tent. Her actions completely dumbfounded Ash and Brock. What just happened? Where was the bickering and the angry shouting he was expecting from her? Honestly he rather had a fight with her than to see her like this! It was heartbreaking and it did not elevate his guilt. Ash groaning inwardly turned to Brock who only sighed, half expecting a reaction like that from Misty.
"I think she is just worried for you Ash, we all are." Ash nodded wordlessly and felt pikachu jumped onto his shoulder, he was greeted by nuzzles and licks. This cute little guy always know how to cheer him up.
"It's getting late Ash, you leave the cleanup to me alright? You should get some sleep." Ash nodded at that, not wanting to argue with him further, he would have offered his aid but he was getting tired. Too much thinking and too much action today for 10 year old child. He wished Brock good night and stared at his other companions's tent before retreating back to his. He laid comfortably on his sleeping bag and collapsed on it, feeling the soft fabric against his skin. He turned his body around and stared at pikachu who climbed in the tent and curled on top of him. The rest of his pokemon seemed to be camping out for tonight.
"Misty acted different, don't you think buddy?" Pikachu shot opened his eyes and nodded, he definitely expected his trainer to suffer from sore throat and bruises and not this.
"Pikachu... do you think I make the right decision?" Ash's tone was both soft and contemplative.
"Ash, as long as you are doing what you think is right. I am with you all the way!" Pikachu gave a nod and cried his name enthusiastically as he reached for Ash for a hug.
Ash just cracked a smile at that.
"Morning Ash, I thought you would be the last one to wake up." Brock's hearty laugh was ever so pleasant. The young trainer before him stared him groggily and nodded with his semi closed eyes. With an audible yawn, he reluctantly walked towards Brock with pikachu equally awake as him, in other words, half asleep.
"Yeah I thought so too but the sunlight woke me up." Ash spoke more quietly, not wanting to wake his two female companions up from their beauty sleep. Brock nodded as he continued stirring the delicious stew he made as he added some salt to it.
"Well it's good to wake up early, anyhow breakfast would be done in any minute now." Giving out a sigh, Ash took his pokeballs and stared at his surroundings. He knew there is a clearing not far from here that provides plentiful of space for him to hone his pokemon. Realizing Brock's any minute is actually an extra hour, Ash took in the consideration of training his pokemon. He also noted that Brock has decided not to bring up the conversation they have last night, something which he appreciates greatly.
'Training my pokemon is always a good way to past time.' Now as a member of a G-men, as a member of a government organization. Ash felt the need to continuously train his pokemon in order to reach their fullest potential. The world is a cold and dark place and the people who are equally harsh are responsible for it. He would need to train hard if he was to eliminate people like Team Rocket, he would have to train hard indeed. The responsibility of a law enforcer has started to shape Ash's mind. If his mother knew about it, she would be extremely worried and would call him every hour just to ask him about his well being.
'If Giovanni was there giving orders to his pokemon and having a fair battle with me... I would have surely lose.' Denying the truth won't do him any good, Giovanni is the stronger trainer no doubt about it. He was certain that he would be crushed by him on a full on battle. It was already a hassle trying to defeat his 3 pokemon with his full team along with Erika's help, in fact if it wasn't for her he might have felt powerless to stop him.
"I can't fail, I can't slack off." Whispering words of encouragement to himself, the sudden conviction that ignited in Ash's heart cause his blood to pump. With a confident grin, he hastily took his pokeballs and head out towards the clearing.
"Ash are you going to train your pokemon?" Brock asked curiously while reading a modelling magazine while stirring his stew, talk about multitasking. Ignoring that his friend is indulging himself at reading scantily clad woman doing "questionable" things, Ash nodded and patted pikachu's head. Much to his delight.
"Yeah I am going to train my pokemon and if I'm not back when breakfast is done. You guys can start without me." Brock raised his eyebrows, was Ash serious? Brock was getting worried here. After the whole fiasco he was certain that Ash would revert to his usual self, obnoxious and immature yet now, Ash seemed mature, calm and more focus than ever. You could tell by the way he talk, the tone he used still have that childishness in it but it had something more... it frightened Brock slightly that he couldn't tell what it is, being his human best friend and all.
'I just hope it isn't a bad change for him, after taking down Team Rocket Ash has definitely changed. I'm not sure is it a good one or a bad one. Either way, he is showing signs of maturity, which is always a good thing.' Gazing at the direction that Ash took off, Brock returned back to preparing breakfast and his "exciting" magazine.
Walking in the woods in the early mornings was something Ash could get use to, it was quiet, peaceful and was pleasant on the eyes. He smiled lightly when pikachu jumped off his shoulders and landed on all fours, he was definitely wide awake now.
'I guess this place is far enough.' After reaching a spot he found desirable, Ash released all of his pokemon who greeted him warmly. Pikachu was especially enthusiastic to see all his friends.
"Hi guys! Guess what we are doing today?" Primeape was the first to answer, he was a morning person so unlike the rest of the pokemon who were still half asleep. He was fully awake in both mind and body.
"Training?" Pikachu nodded vigorously, he noted the excitement in primeape's voice.
"Yeap!" The ape pokemon grinned and slammed his fists together as approval. He was starting to miss their regular training sessions, Ash used to train his pokemon when he deemed necessary and not on a daily basis.
"That's great! Now I can flex my muscles!" Charmeleon scoff at primeape's bulging muscles and stared at bulbasaur who was unusually quiet. It worried the Kanto fire type starter slightly, he walked towards him and placed his claw on top of his bulb.
"Bulbasaur you okay buddy?" Bulbasaur nodded, charmeleon frowned and cross his arms as he raised his eyebrow. Bulbasaur knew that look from anywhere, it was the "uh huh" look that screamed sarcasm.
"Huh? Oh yeah I'm fine just- thinking." He was noticeably depressed, which was very unlike the cool and calm bulbasaur he knew.
"Look if it's about last night-" Charmeleon started off slowly but was quickly interrupted by bulbasaur.
"No- I mean, it's fine." The others were too preoccupied with each other to notice their conversation, something which bulbasaur was grateful for.
"Alright guys! Listen up! This is important, I have decided to train you all daily. I've realized that I have not been training you guys as much as I wanted and I kept rushing into gym battles without preparing you guys for it. I'm sorry for the mistakes in the past, I hope you guys can forgive me." Roaring their name fiercely, Ash grinned when his pokemon all jump up and down. He could only guess their replies were of forgiveness.
"Look I don't know how you all feel about me becoming a pokemon G-men, I know that it comes to you guys as a shock but I really need your support. Right now the road ahead would be tough for us, we have to become stronger so that we can help and save others. It's a tall order but I believe that we can do it together. So are you guys with me?"
"We are with you all the way Ash!" (Pikachu)
"Till the bitter end!" (Charmeleon)
"Our loyalty towards you is absolute!" (Bulbasaur)
"Well someone has to look after you." (Primeape)
"To the death!" (Wartortle)
"That's a bit much Wartortle." (Krabby)
"Alright then but before we start our training, I need to tell you guys that the next gym leader we'll be facing is a poison type one. So I have already decided on who I would be using for the battle." Primeape and bulbasaur knew that they weren't going to be chosen for this, Ash has become more wiser and mature so that means his battle strategy and thinking must have reflect his thinking as well. They doubt he would make the same mistake and choose someone who is weak to poison type pokemon.
"Charmeleon, Krabby and Wartortle. I would be using the three of you in my next gym battle, so I'm counting on you!" The trio grinned and nodded, glad that they were the candidates for it. Just thinking about it already made them feel so hyped!
"Good, now we can start our training session." Everyone gathered together and stood up straight.
"Charmeleon, I know you are an excellent fighter but right now I need you to strengthen up your fire type moves. I want you to use flamethrower on that boulder over there and continue to do so until I say stop alright? Charmeleon wasn't expecting this type of training but he complied nonetheless. He hastily went up to the boulder and unleashed torrid streams of flames at the said boulder.
"Bulbasaur, compared to the rest of the team you are one that is the most balanced in terms of offensively and defensively. Right now I need you to use solarbeam on that tree over there, gather as much sunlight as quickly as you can and unleashed the attack immediately. Keep practicing, and you'll be able to launch solarbeam like any regular attack. This will also help you improve your focus in battle, so keep trying alright?" Bulbasaur nodded, he wobbled towards a huge oak tree and stood a good distance from it, right under the sun. He took a deep breath and started to gather up sunlight with his bulb.
"Krabby, your pincers proved very useful against grass type moves like razor leaf. So I decided that you'll need to strengthen your pincers and be more efficient with them. Keep using vice grip or crabhammer on that boulder over there and try switch the angle of your attack every time you land a successful hit." Ash pointed at a large chunk of rock and smiled at krabby. Krabby grumbled a bit but obeyed Ash's orders nonetheless, he swipe the rock with much ferocity and kept swapping his direction of attack every time he lands a hit.
"Wartortle I need you to practice ice type moves, I know you are still getting a hang of it but it would be good if you can master it." Wartortle nodded and crossed his arms as he waited for further orders.
"There's a lake not far from here, both of you come with me." Primeape and Wartortle exchange glances, boy was Ash serious. They walked further and further as they reached a lake, wartortle had a feeling of what Ash wants him to do.
"Wartortle try to use ice beam to freeze the surface of the lake, create a path for you to cross to the middle of the lake by walking on top of the ice you formed on the water. If you can do that, then you are more than ready to take on any dragon type." That last part really got Wartortle excited, Wartortle, the slayer of dragons. Damn did have a nice ring to it! Cautiously, he spew out a beam of ice on the surface of the lake as ice started to form upon contact. It was easy to form ice on the lake but to have the density that allowed a heavy pokemon like him to walk on proved to be quite the challenge.
"Primeape let's begin our training." Primeape look of confusion became a look of excitement when Ash threw his jacket and cap away to take on a defensive stance with his fists type.
"I need to know how to defend myself if I'm in trouble so can you teach me basic martial arts? Also please go easy on me." Ash ended with a sheepish smile that caused Primeape sighed and nodded with his eyes rolled. Though truth to be told he didn't want to severely hurt Ash as well, so he already planned to hold back.
'Guess I will start with the basics.' Primeape made Ash cross block his arms and waited for Ash to ready himself. Seeing the tight and firm stance Ash was in, Primeape launch his flurry of fists.
After an hour of relentless training, Ash could be seen swimming in the ice cold lake with his pokemon. The temperature of the lake lowered considerably but it wasn't unpleasant. Wartortle did a remarkable job of coating the surface of the lake with ice but it still wasn't dense enough to support his weight.
"My muscles are killing me!" Ash sat on the shallow part of the lake, with half of his body submerged into the water. He laid his back on the boulder and watch his pokemon splashing water towards each other. Bulbasaur was having the most out of it all, seeing he was splashing water at charmeleon who was surprising enough, swimming in the cold waters.
"You okay Ash? I didn't break any of your bones right?" Primeape stood next to Ash with a concern look on his face, the sparring session he had with his Ash went well. Ash would make an excellent fighter if honed right. Noticing Primeape's look of concern, Ash patted his fighting type pokemon on the head and smiled.
"I'm fine primeape, just sore that's all." Primeape grunted and sat next to his trainer, his legs relaxing under the spell of the cold waters. Pikachu on the other hand who wasn't given any training actually went to train on his own without Ash's orders, the faint glow of electric attacks could be seen from Ash's point of view. It was almost beautiful, the yellow light flashed in all sorts of directions.
"Pikachu I think that's enough!" Ash decided that he had seen enough of the lighting show called out to his starter. Within seconds, the streaks of lightning stopped and pikachu emerged from the bushes with sweat on his forehead and was covered with dirt.
'Must have been practicing his stamina and ranged attacks.' He made a mental note to hone pikachu's defensive moves. Pikachu makes his merry way on top of Ash's shoulders and shuddered lightly when his feet touched the cold water. Ash chuckled at that and rubbed pikachu's head, earning a coo from him.
"Alright guys let's return back to the camp." The pokemon nodded and got on land, they were tired from their training session but the cold water worked wonders on their body.
Walking back to the campsite was not an easy task if you were Ash, his legs could barely move forward and his back was aching. He would need to ask Erika's tangela for help, his healing abilities were superior as far as he know.
"Hey Ash! I was wonder- dear lord what happened to you!" Brock dropped the stove on and ran towards Ash seeing Ash's injured state. Misty and Erika didn't fail to follow Brock either, they stood Ash's side and looked at him worriedly.
"I'm fine guys, primeape and I were just doing some combat training." The trio looked at primeape who gave them a sheepish look, he could feel the glares of the his trainer's two female companions that threatened to end his life. Erika sighed, she was really worried for him. Why did he have to push himself that far? She was about to get breakfast for Ash when her tangela walked towards Ash with a smile on his face.
"Want me to heal those wounds for you Ash?" Ash had a confused smile on his face, not knowing what was going on. Tangela didn't wait for Ash's answer and use his vines to wrap around his arms and began healing Ash.
"Woah! Thanks tangela." The pokemon watched in awe as Ash's wounds gradually disappeared and he was looking much healthier. Erika didn't hesitate to hug her tangela and thanks him, much to his embarrassment and surprise.
"Show off." Tangela ignored wartortle's comment and grinned, he stared at bulbasaur who was deflated, obviously wanting to learn some healing techniques to help out.
'Next time bulbasaur, next time I will teach you.' Another healer on the group would be nice.
"Well since you are alright now, how about some breakfast?" Erika brought the bowl of food to Ash who took it eagerly, his muscles were sore but he was generally alright. As he was enjoying his breakfast, he noticed that Misty wasn't eating her food and instead was eyeing him with a ice cold look.
"Uh, is something wrong Misty?" Misty didn't immediately answer, she sighed and stared at Ash with a glare on her face.
"You never trained that early before." Ash sighed, he wanted to say "none of your business" but knew it would just piss her off. Boy was he getting cranky already, his injuries were starting to have an effect on him.
"Is that a problem?" Noting the tone of Ash's voice has shift, Brock was beginning to worry that an arguement between the two would escalate. Misty narrowed her eyes and snatched Ash's bowl away from him, causing him to glare at her.
"Hey what's your problem!?" Ash stood up with his hands slammed onto the table with his eyes fixated on Misty, she backed of slightly and stood there afraid of Ash. She never seen him act like this before, it was like he was genuinely pissed off at her. Was it because of last night? Was Ash angry at her for last night? That idiot! Couldn't he see that she was worried for him?!
"You are not eating until you are telling us what is going on, ever since the Team Rocket incident you've been acting different!" Misty shouted loudly with her fists held tight. Brock being the mediator of the group did his best to calm Misty down but she was having none of it.
"I'm not different! Stop treating me like I am! I just wanted to be a G-men that's all! Nothing has changed!" Erika patted Ash's shoulder comfortingly, she stood between Ash and Misty and cleared her throat. She wasn't surprised to Ash's sudden mood swing, but she couldn't say she enjoyed it either.
"Let us calm down alright? Ash, Misty is just worried you. I know you are facing a lot of pressure, so please talk to us about it. We all are you friends, you know that right? There's no need to be angry." Ash stared at Erika who only smiled sweetly at him, when does she not smile? And why does her smile has such a charming effect on him? Ash immediately reconcile his mistake and calmed down. He apologized to Misty swiftly and sat back down while averting his gaze from her, focusing on gobbling his his food.
Seeing Ash apologized she couldn't help but to feel that she was the wrong one here, she didn't apologized but she gave back Ash his breakfast and sat down defiantly. She eyed Erika who sat next to Ash closely, they might as well be holding hands right now since Ash they were sitting so close.
Brock however was wise enough to make himself invisible to the conversation, he just stared at the trio and had only one thought in his mind.
'Ash you are one lucky bastard.'
After packing their belongings, the group made their merry way towards Fuchsia city. They were in high spirits (most notably Ash) as the Safari Zone there was the home to many rare pokemon in Kanto. No doubt that this would be an exciting and extraordinary place to venture.
"Say Ash, what pokemon are you going to use for the next gym battle? I heard that the gym leader there uses poison type pokemon." Brock asked with a smile, he eyed a certain yellow mouse pokemon that was perched on Ash's shoulder.
"Charmeleon, Wartortle and Kingler." Brock raised his eyes, what about his ace pokemon pikachu? Is he not going to use him?
"Huh how about pikachu?" Misty beaten Brock to the question.
"He won't be battling. Maybe as backup but I won't be relying too much on him. I've been using pikachu too much for my battles, I need to give the others a chance as well." Ash said while scratching pikachu's ears, pikachu himself didn't mind it at all. His teammates do deserve to battle as much as he does.
"I think that's a great idea Ash, that way all of your pokemon can bring out their true potential when they battle. They are so well trained and it would be great to see all of them in battle." Erika spoke not caring if she had said too much at all, Ash on the other hand was blushing of embarrassment while pikachu smiled. If he could see the look on his pokemon's faces there is no doubt all of them would be blushing from the compliment.
"Really? Because Ash usually only use pikachu. It is hard to believe that his other pokemon is good as good as him." Misty said to no one in particular. Ash scowled and stared at Misty with a deadpanned look, only to earn a smirk from Misty.
"He is very coordinated with his pokemon and he showed great leadership. I think Ash and his pokemon are wonderful." Erika said the last part more meekly, she was well aware how much she said about Ash and his pokemon. She only smiled at Ash shyly when Ash thanked her with a genuine smile.
'Adorable.' Brock managed to hold back a smile when he saw their interactions together. For one, this is the first time he ever saw Ash get praised so highly and he wasn't being arrogant or cocky about it. No, he accepted those praises, but with humbleness. Which was rare for the trainer from Pallet.
"Actually I was wondering Erika, what is your dream besides being a gym leader?" Ash asked out of the blue, his eyes were fixated on Erika's serene and tranquil eyes. She tilted her head to aside cutely and stared at the clouds above her.
"Well I always wanted to make my pokemon look good and present it to the world to show off their natural beauty." Erika did had a thing for grooming pokemon. She eyed Brock who seemed to smile at her statement, almost as if he was intrigued and surprised by her statement.
"Really? Well maybe Brock can give you some tips! His dream is to become a pokemon breeder after all." Brock nodded enthusiastically, he would be more than happy to help the Celadon gym leader out. It would be good working experience for him as well.
"I never knew Brock, I think it's a fantastic dream to achieve." Brock chuckled and waved it off, holding the Kanto map in his hands.
"Thanks Erika, it's good to have support from friends and family. Though looking at your pokemon-" Brock squint his eyes even further as he examined Erika's pokemon, most noticeably gloom.
"-They seemed to be at tip top condition. They look healthy, well groomed and content!" Brock rubbed his chin, eyeing gloom who was getting uncomfortable under Brock's observant gaze.
"Erika, pardon my question but have you decided on gloom's next evolution? If I'm not mistaken it is between a vileplume and a bellossom." Erika nodded and patted gloom's bulb, she had thought about it and already made her choice.
"Well I thought about it and I want gloom to evolve into a bellossom. However it is entirely up to her to decided what she wants to evolve into. I don't want to force her." Gloom nodded in agreement and nuzzled Erika's hand. The pungent smell of her flower were something that the group got used to.
"Well that is great to hear, I'm glad that you giving gloom a choice. I know many trainers would force their pokemon to evolve into their desire evolution. It sickens me to no end seeing those trainers doing what they please without thinking of their pokemon's feelings." Ash spoke softly while looking at pikachu, he felt bulbasaur's pokemon shake and smiled at that.
'Just how much sweeter can you get Ash?' Erika stared at the raven hair boy, his tone was soft and the emotions in his eyes was something Erika seen before a dozen times when he was being protective of her safety. She knew she admire Ash, but what she didn't knew is how much Ash admires her too.
"Erika look! Look!" Gloom spoke while tugging Erika's sleeve, catching her trainer's attention. Gloom then plucked a nearby flower and put it on her head and took some leaves to cover the lower part of her body. She giggled a bit when pikachu jumped next to her curiously and started to stare at her in a silly manner.
"Gloom do you want to evolve into bellossom? Are you sure about this?" Erika knelt down and placed her arms around the gloom. Gloom nodded quickly and hugged her trainer with a smile.
"Well if gloom wants to evolve into a bellossom, she would need a sun stone. But they are quite rare in Kanto, so it's gonna be expensive-" Brock halted his words when he noticed Erika's and Gloom's dejected look, crap maybe he should keep his mouth shut sometimes.
"I'm aware of that..." Erika patted Gloom who nuzzled her trainer, she was in no rush of evolving but she knew that bellossom line are known to be cute and pretty. She honestly couldn't wait to evolve.
"Ash what are you doing?" Misty asked curiously as the Kanto native rummaged through his backpack, seemingly looking for something.
"Granting Gloom's wish." Ash pulled out a sun shaped stone, it reflected the sunlight as he glowed in the daylight. Gloom was squealing as she saw the sun stone in Ash's hands.
"Is that a sun stone Ash? Where on earth did you get that?" Brock examined the piece of evolution stone in Ash's hand, it was hard to come by and was difficult to find it in the wilds. Ash hesitated a moment as his gaze lingered on Erika for a quick moment, he sighed and started off slowly.
"When we were fighting the Team Rocket Grunts, there was a room that was used to stashed stolen items or items from the black market. There were only a stash of evolution stones left there and among them was the sun stone, so I took it with me. I handed it to the police after we got out but they told me to keep it since no on reported a missing sun stone." Ash was very aware of the concerned look of his companion's faces, it was a topic he didn't want to bring up again.
"Ash, I was with you the whole time. How come I didn't see it?" Erika spoke softly, she got a feeling she won't like Ash's answer. Her fists were already grip tight and she felt her heart ache at the thought of Ash's answer.
"I- I purposely did a distraction by diverging all the attention to me, that's the reason why I kept you ahead with the pokemon. I knew they were reinforcements from behind so I only used primeape for it, so we can finish the job as soon as possible without letting you know." Erika narrowed her eyes, how could she be so blinded? During that incident where they kept pushing forward and Ash stayed behind just slight was to command primeape to get rid of the incoming reinforcements from behind? The reason for their smooth victory through out the ordeal was because Ash and primeape dealt with the threat themselves? That he cut off their forces with just primeape?
"Ash Ketchum! Are you saying that I wasn't a good enough of a trainer to help you!?" Erika roared out loudly, much to everyone's shock. She stomped towards Ash and grabbed both of his arms and shook them violently.
"Why didn't you ask for my help? W-Why didn't you ask for the rest of the pokemon's help? What if something happens to you and I was too late to realize that something had happened to you? I thought you said we were a team, I thought you said I was your friend." Ash felt like he was the most horrible person on earth, Erika was crying right now as she held on to him like her life depends on it. She was truly worried for him and was choking her words out.
"Erika, I do trust you okay! More than anyone! I'm sorry I-I just didn't want anything to happen to you." Ash on instinct wrapped his arms around her and felt her nose touched his chest. He ignored the soft and comfortable feeling of having Erika in his arms and started to rub her back to comfort her. He didn't like keeping secrets from her or from his friends, but sometimes he would just have to lie to himself for the greater good.
"I'm sorry Erika, I really am. I do trust you, I really do! I was just so scared that something might happen to you guys. Primeape stayed behind because he is the strongest of the group before charmeleon and wartortle evolved." Erika could feel Ash trembling, his arms around her were shaking. Almost as if Ash was thinking the horrible scenarios that could have happened to them. Erika sighed and hugged him tighter in response. Ash thought back to the incident where primeape didn't hesitate to knock out the grunts before they could release his pokemon, he was swift and was relentless. Ash wasn't a merciful person against those who do harm to pokemon.
"And I'm not? How can you be so reckless Ash? We were supposed to look after each other." Erika opted to say those words softly, she didn't want the others to hear how worried she was for Ash. She smiled softly when Ash whispered his apologies and repeated the words "You're right, I am an idiot."
"Just promise me next time you would ask for help, okay Ash? I forgive you this time, I-I just don't want anything to happen to you, at least not without me. I am as worried of you, you're not alone you know." Erika's words effectively caused Ash to nod furiously and promise without hesitation. The look of Erika breaking down because of him was heartbreaking, he vowed that he would never want to make Erika like that ever again.
"I promise." Ash spoke a little more affectionately, the two embraced each other for Arceus knows how long before they heard Brock cleared his throat. They reluctantly pulled away and adoring blushes appeared on their faces, they shyly kept a distance from each other and averted each other's eyes. Both of them had realized how much they care for each other and how good it felt to be in each other's arms.
Brock smiled knowingly but wasn't going to say anything, instead the changed the topic knowing that these two would need some time to grow... whatever relationship they have right now.
"So Gloom ready to evolve?" Brock knelt down to Gloom as he patted on of the bulbs, Gloom stared at her mistress and her "friend" before turning to Brock with a smile on her face.
"Here." Ash spoke quietly, still embarrassed that he held Erika in his arms like that, but she was so soft and sweet, and the fragrant smell of her-
'Stop it Ash, stop it!' Finally, his conscience put hold on those thoughts, looks like he won't be getting much sleep tonight.
"T-Thank you." Erika tried her best to control her strained voice, she gingerly took the sun stone from Ash's hand as they hands brushed each other. The familiar warmth and jolt caused their hearts to be ablaze, they both knew this feeling won't go away for a very long time.
Erika knelt down in front of Gloom and hand it towards her, she smiled at the sight of the stone and touched it without hesitation. She was engulf by a bright white light that caused her body to turned smaller. As the light died down, the tiara of flowers around her head and the elegant leaves that shaped like a skirt made her look like a princess.
"Erika look! I evolved!" Bellossom yelled out happily and did a victory danced. Erika almost squealed at the sight of her adorable pokemon. She picked her up and hugged her lots as she patted her head.
"You look beautiful bellossom." Erika closed her eyes in content and nuzzled her cheeks against bellossom's.
'Ash don't stare so much.' Ash inner conscience smacked Ash in the head, he was enjoying the super adorable sight of two super adorable individuals hugging each other.
Bellossom broke off the hug and stared at Ash, she cried her name cutely and immediately pounced into Ash's arms. Pikachu with fast reflexes jump onto Ash's shoulder in time as Ash hugged the grateful pokemon that melted in his arms.
"I guess she really likes me." Bellossom nodded and nuzzled Ash's chest lovingly, Ash sighed in content and was busy spoiling the adorable pokemon in his arms, not noticing Erika approaching and tickling bellossom's cheek.
"Mr and Mrs Ketchum we better get going." Brock spoke with a grin, but what surprised him was the nod of the two trainers. Did they not hear what he just said? Especially Erika!
"Yeah it's getting late, here you go Erika." Bellossom jumped into Erika's arms and stared at pikachu who was perching on Ash's shoulder with a small smile on his face.
"Alright onwards to Fuchsia city!" Ash shouted enthusiastically, pushing aside all those emotions he had earlier.
"I told you bikers to leave my city ALONE! This is my final warning, the next time I meet you scumbags again, I would be forced to use violence against you." A man in his mid 20's spoke angrily, he wore a black ninja suit that covered his entire body. A long red scarf that covered his neck and a brown leather belt that seemed to have kunais and shurikens on it. In the palm of his hand, he was holding a pokeball with a poison type symbol on it.
"Hey now, let's calm down Koga. There is no need for violence, say where is your sister? It has been a long time since I saw her? Bet she grown into a beauty now huh? Would be a shame if something were to-" Koga launched his fist forward, aiming at the biker gang's neck. Striking directly at his chords, Koga watch coldly as the leader of the biker gang fell to the floor choking, his hands held up to his neck as he struggled to breath. He was in tears as he weakly stared at Koga who already called out Crobat that glared at them with a glint of sadism in his glowing eyes.
"Next time you talk about my sister like that again, I will make sure that they never find your body." As to prove his point, his Crobat used air cutter on the bike of the leader, slicing the bike in half. Within seconds, the leader ordered a full retreat as the rest of his lackeys followed him to escape the poison type master. Seeing the bastards making a full retreat, Koga wordlessly returned his Crobat to his pokeball. He sighed and muttered something like "No one touches Aya" and "I would do anything to keep my sister safe" to himself as he kicked on of the pebbles on the ground to vent out his frustration.
Just when Koga was to return back to the gym, he noticed a group of people walking towards him. One of them happens to be Erika, much to his surprised.
'Erika? What is she doing around these parts of town? Unless...' A small smirk was formed on Koga's face.
"Gym leader Erika!" Erika stopped and in the distance he saw a man who seemed to be a shinobi. She instantly smiled as she only knows one person who would wear that ninja attire in Fuchsia city.
"Koga!" Erika waved a hello to the ninja master, Koga only nodded back as he hastily walked towards the group.
"I have not seen you for ages and you surely have grown taller." Koga grinned as he ruffled Erika's hair, much to the group's surprise.
"K-Koga! Don't do that, it's embarrassing." Koga chuckled as he waved her off, he eyed Ash in great interest as a small smile slowly crept onto his lips.
"So you must be Ash." Ash looked at Koga in confusion, how does he know his name?
"You heard of me?" Koga shook his head, and stared at Ash longingly.
"Yes but that's not it, you look just like him." Just like him? Ash sighed inwardly when he realized the person Koga was talking about. Did everyone older than him all knew his father? Seeing Ash's reaction, Koga decided not to delve further into the topic.
"Ah Erika, Ash congratulations on taking down Team Rocket. You two are quite famous now, not surprising in the slightest." Koga grinned when Ash and Erika looked at each other with a small blush on each other's faces. He knew the young Celadon gym leader for quite some time, despite being older than her.
'I don't think I ever seen a boy that could get that reaction out from her. Red, Ash definitely has your genes.' Koga eyed Misty who was huffing in jealousy. Ash was quite charmer to say the least.
"Pardon me Koga, but on our way here we saw a group of bikers riding out of the city in a hurry. I don't like to judge a book by it's cover but those biker gang seemed to be bad news." Brock spoke formally, Koga's expression darkened and gave out a sigh.
"You are right Brock, those biker gang has been nothing but trouble. They have caused quite the stir around here lately and have been harassing the people of the city. I would have got rid of them but I don't think I can deal with this problem alone. Also congratulations on having your father back, it's about time Flint got his priorities straight." Brock chuckled and rubbed his neck, his father seemed to be quite popular. Koga however was focus on Ash's face, it was the spitting image of his father. That determined look filled with resolve.
"Would you like us to help you then?" Erika knew exactly what Ash was suggesting, while she wasn't against the idea of helping a fellow friend out. She wasn't too keen on Ash being in dangerous situations again.
"Ash you are a G-men are you not? Lance had told me a great deal about you." Ash was surprised but he didn't show it, he didn't want Koga to read him like a book. Koga smirked internally when Ash managed a nod, he knew that the young boy was trying his best to act all nonchalant. Perhaps he knew how much of mind reader Koga is.
"Ash I know you want to help but please think carefully." Brock chided, he didn't want to sound like a nagging old man but he was concern of Ash's safety.
"It would be fine Brock, I have my pokemon. So Koga? What say you?" He wasn't taking no for an answer, he impatiently stared at Koga who was observing him with his calculative eyes.
"I accept your offer Ash. Now why don't you all come to my gym. From the looks of it, rain would start to fall. We could further discuss our plan of action under the comfort of my gym." Koga lead the way to his gym, it was simple dojo mostly made of wood but the interior of the gym was fascinating as various training equipment could be seen everywhere.
"Brother? Are these challengers?" A young beautiful woman, who is in her early 20's asked politely. There was no doubt that Koga's sister was a real beauty, to which Brock knew but he never attempted to do something towards her. Something tells him Koga would have him dead before he could reach her half way, being a brother himself, he knew the wrath of an overprotective sibling was more than terrifying.
"They are our guest Aya. Ah my apologies, this is my beloved sister Aya." Koga immediately walked next to his sister and stared at the kitchen table that seemed to fit all of them. It was an ancient Kanto style dinner table with floor mats and cushions as chairs. Though he was sure that the group won't mind of that, it is more comfortable than it looks.
"Would you mind preparing dinner for us Aya? There is a matter that I need to discuss with the group." Aya nodded and went into the kitchen. Koga had a small smile on his face before Brock offered his aid in helping out, Koga was hesitant at first but when Misty joined in, he allowed them to do so.
Koga sat on the dining table with Ash and Erika joining him. He poured some tea onto the cups and noticed the uncomfortable gaze of the trainer from Pallet.
"Is something wrong Ash?" Ash shook his head furiously, but Koga could easily tell that he was nervous and excited at the same time.
'Probably about the situation at hand, not surprising.' Koga calmly sip on his tea and slide the two cups of tea with precision in front of Erika and Ash respectively while drinking his tea. Talk about skill.
"When do we leave?" Ash's voice was serious and firm, seemingly unfitting for the young boy. Erika tensed slightly when she noticed the edge of Ash's voice. Was he really that eager to begin?
"Tomorrow night, there is a hideout not far from the outskirts of Fuchsia city. Shouldn't be a problem for the both of us." Koga's eyes shifted towards Erika for a split second before back to Ash, making sure no one saw him doing so.
"Wait both of you? I thought we are doing this together?" It was exactly the reaction he expected from Erika, Koga turned his head towards the former Celadon gym leader and smiled softly. He did have it soft when it comes to younger girls.
"Too many footfalls would cause unwanted attention, besides I personally want to see Ash's ability in this." Erika narrowed her eyes but didn't said anything. Knowing that Ash would be more than happy to side with Koga at this.
'So it is a test for me, his testing me whether I'm worthy to become a G-men. He probably knew Lance personally since Lance told him about me, and he knew my father as well.' Ash's kept his calculative and observant look hidden under his jovial smile.
"Sure, I don't mind at all." Erika turned to Ash and instead of shouting or giving him a stern look, she looked at him almost pleadingly. Ash cursed himself the moment he saw Erika's concerned look, it was heartbreaking to see yet heartwarming at the same time, as he knows how much she cares for him.
Noting the tense tension in the air, Koga excused himself to the kitchen leaving the two to talk in private, as well as to make sure Brock wasn't doing anything suspicious to his sister.
"Erika I-" Ash started of slowly, he didn't want to lie to her but he didn't want her to get involve in this as well.
"Don't. I know the reasons why you don't want me to get involve in this. Frankly, I don't care about that opinion, I'm coming with you and that's final." Ash winced slightly at Erika's authoritative voice, he knew that she was not taking no for an answer and grew tired of him doing dangerous stuff like this alone.
"A-Alright then, just stick close to me." Erika broke a smile, she was glad that he didn't put much of a fight on this. Sticking close to him wouldn't be too hard, considering her body acted on instinct-
"I-I will." She was about to say something even more but stopped herself from doing so, that could wait for another time. The two then engaged into idly chatter, with Erika doing most of the talking. Ash was deeply surprised to learn that Erika's mother owns a perfume company and her father owns a research academy for pokemon. There was no doubt that Erika came from a prestigious and wealthy family, something which Ash didn't realized until now. Then again, she did carry herself with grace and elegance. Her friends were the most astonishing, they were all older than her and were mostly female. Okay, maybe the latter wasn't so surprising but to Ash it was.
'I mean she's cute , pretty, smart and nice.' Shouldn't she at least have one boyfriend or endless chains of suitors that begged her attention?
Just when Erika decide to ask Ash questions of her own, the food arrived and they were delighted to see traditional Kanto cuisine and delicacies.
"I hope you all enjoy the meal." Aya spoke somewhat nervously, she changed into more casual attire sporting a white blouse and black shorts. Koga chuckled lightly and ruffled her hair with a grin on his face.
"Don't mind Aya, she never cooked for others before." Aya glared at her brother who smiled nervously at her. It was interesting to say the least for the co as they never saw Koga's casual and relaxed nature before, well Erika saw it plenty when she was younger but seeing Koga right now reminds her again, how good of a brother he was.
"I'm sure it would taste fantastic." Brock was certain that it would, I mean he himself was there to help out. Everyone sat on their zabutons (Japanese floor cushions) and waited for Aya to sit down before they ate. She nervously bowed and gestured the rest of them to start eating, and they did just that.
When the dinner was done, everyone were helping out to clean the dishes. It's been a long time since Koga and Aya had visitors and they had fun having the group for dinner. Koga sat on the corner of the room with a glass of sake in his hands, he stared at Aya who was busy talking to Erika and Misty. A smile crept onto his face when he saw his sister enjoying the company of the two young maidens, age didn't seem to be a barrier to them.
'It has been a long time since Aya got to socialized with others, maybe it is better that we lessen our training session. She needs a life other than ninjutsu after all.' Koga relaxed slightly and gave a sigh of content, his venomoth was in a distance cleaning up the rest of the dishes with his psychic abilities. The moth pokemon did like to do housework for some strange reason.
"Am I disturbing you Koga?" Koga turned and saw Brock smiling at him, he shook his head and gestured him to sit with him.
"Not at all Brock." Brock sat next to the older man and placed his elbow on top of his knee, he stared at the moth pokemon with great interest as venomoth was humming a tune while wiping the table with a wet cloth.
"Where's Ash?" Noting that a certain trainer was missing, Koga asked naturally.
"Showering, thank you for letting us stay here Koga." Koga waved it off and handed Brock a sake cup.
"It's no hassle, it's been a long time since we had visitors." Brock nodded and poured the sake into his cup, he was fine with drinking, especially with someone he could call friend.
"I'm worried." Koga raised his eyebrow at Brock's statement, he sighed and placed his cup on the table with his arms crossed.
"Ash?" Brock didn't hesitate to nod as he finished his sake with one gulp.
"He has changed after the Team Rocket incident, and frankly I'm not sure I like that. He is maturing but it is too-"
"-Sudden." Brock frowned slightly, not liking that what Koga say is true.
"I know how you feel, Aya was like that too. One moment I was protecting her, giving her comfort, the next moment she is cooking for me, taking care of me and making sure I wasn't over stressed. But Ash is different yes?" Brock sighed and nodded, he need the advice of the older man.
"It's not a bad thing, but he feels like he needs to be the one responsible for enforcing the law. That, he needs to do it alone so that no one gets hurt. To spare others from pain because of him. I'm worried that he might burned himself out one day." Koga knew this all too well, Ash has too much of his father in him.
"True, but that's why he has you to look after him, or better yet Erika." Koga eyed Erika who was looking good in her kimono, he smiled knowing that the young girl would be responsible for preventing Ash from doing something reckless.
"It's good to see a girl has that an effect on Ash, he needs that honestly." Brock didn't want to speculate their relationship, but he knew it was something that was different from the norm.
"It would be fine Brock, a lot of people are looking after him." Brock raised a curious eyebrow but Koga declined to go even further on the topic.
"It's getting late and it seems like you have enough to drink." Koga grinned when Brock rubbed the back of his neck, with his face flushed.
"Alright everyone, nights out." The girls pouted together and smiled together in unison when a thought came to their heads.
'Let me guess, slumber party.' Koga's deadpanned look was interesting to say the least. He ignored the girls going into the room together and opted to retreat back to his bedroom. As he walked into the hallway, he saw Ash sitting outside of the garden. He was staring at the moon with an unreadable expression on his face, his trademark messy hair was slightly damp with pikachu resting on his lap.
"They say the moon represents sadness and longingness. I wonder if it's true?" Koga smiled lightly when Ash turned to him with a small smile on his face.
"Just thinking about him." Koga's face darkened and offered a sad smile. Knowing all too well who Ash is missing.
"Your father." Seeing Ash's lack of response caused Koga to sigh inwardly.
"He misses you Ash, he misses your mother." Seeing that Ash didn't bulge, Koga decided to continue. He slowly walked towards him and sat next to Ash. They stared at the moon together as Koga collected his thoughts.
"Sometimes, you have do what you must. Even if you don't like it, even if you felt like you are forced to do it. Even if it meant going against your ideals and beliefs. You still must do your job, not solely for yourself but for others. It's a huge sacrifice and a burden to carry, doing so would result in paying a huge price but we don't always get to choose our choices freely. We have to live with those choices and accept it's consequences, not matter how big or small it may be." Ash bit his lower lip and gingerly stared at Koga that held a stoic expression.
"W-Was my father that kind of man?" Koga turned to Ash and offered a small but genuine smile.
"I like to believe so." Ash lowered his gaze and patted pikachu on the head, the young mouse pokemon nuzzled into Ash's hands and he couldn't but to giggle at pikachu's cute antics.
"Get some sleep Ash, we are going to have our gym battle tomorrow. I'm looking forward to it." Koga patted Ash on the back as he made his way to his own room. Leaving Ash sitting in the garden with the company of the moonlight.
"I won't fail you dad, I know you want me to choose this path." He whispered to himself, hoping that his father would approve of his decision. Unbeknownst to him, Ash has chosen the path that his father started.