And, we're back again! Enjoy the latest chapter, and let us know what you think with the review feature if you're excited for what's coming next! Thanks again for making it this far!
The cold ice cream felt good inside of his mouth. He had to admit, the doctors were talented. Three days after being fixed up with the liquid stitch-artificial skin graft fluid, his cheek was mostly better. A bright, angry pink scar stretched along his side, and it was still very tender to the touch, but he could eat and talk as much as the outer bandage would allow movement.
Rosa had even gotten used to the white patch, understanding that it was meant to keep Ash's still healing face clean and protect it from sunlight to minimize the risk of complications in healing. She happily sat beside her father figure, licking her cone of ice cream vigorously.
So vigorously, in fact, that Brock got up to go get more napkins again.
"They're both in the zone," Misty noted, shaking her head at how Ash was ravenously darting back and forth between his chocolate scoop and his vanilla scoop.
Dawn just nodded. She was wearing shades; while she was mostly better, like Ash, she was taking protective measures for a while. Exposure to bright lights set off headaches for her right now, so she was wearing the sunglasses and Empoleon had insisted on sitting so that he could block most of the sunlight from her as the two ate their ice cream. "Well, if it's ice cream that's getting them so worked up, it's fine, right?"
Hearing the two girls, Rosa stopped eating, a bit of cookie crunch ice cream dripping off her muzzle. She looked back to Ash, touching his shoulder as he tried to politely turn down Pikachu's offer to slurp from his glass of chilled tomato juice. ~Papa, will you get too worked up again? Don't get too worked up again, Papa! That was scary!~
Ash only understood what she meant because she had been speaking with aura. "Rosa, I'm not gonna get that excited. I was mad at Proton; really mad. I don't normally start fights like that, though."
Brock returned, setting the napkins down. "Ash Ketchum, I don't know what the context of this is, but we all know you absolutely do start fights."
Misty put her hand under her chin, giving the trainer a pointed look that marked her agreement with Brock.
Ash crossed his arms. "Well, look, I don't normally try to hurt people." Neither protested this. "I just love you guys, ya know? I'm not about to let anyone hurt you."
The coordinator let out a contented sigh. "Even if it is a little scary… That's the you I've always known. I met you by seeing you try to fight a giant robot. It's nice to know you'd go so far as to beat down some thug to keep your pokemon safe. You've always been dependable like that."
Brock bit his lip. "... You can't solve too many problems that way, and I wonder how that might reflect on your career if you do it at the wrong time."
The gym leader bit into her waffle cone, pointing it at Brock accusatively after. "He did the right thing! He didn't kill Proton, but he needed to be wailed on a little bit!"
"Pikapi!" Pikachu chirped, just now finding out what exactly Ash had done leading up to getting cut.
Ash laughed nervously. "Hey, hey, let's all just relax." He threw an arm around Rosa's shoulders, grinning. "It's Papa's job to keep his daughter safe, right?" He got no answer. "Right, Rosa? Rosemary?" He looked down.
The blue pokemon was pouting, her lower lip poked out. Her ice cream had been jostled when Ash wrapped an arm around her, smudging across the tip of her nose.
"Aw, jeez, that's my fault, huh? Well, hey, watch this." He made a point of eating his ice cream messily, wiping it on the sides of his mouth. After, he licked it all off. He ignored the disgusted sounds of protests from his other friends.
~Oh! Okay.~ Rosa followed suit, her longer tongue letting her clean off her entire muzzle. She hummed happily. Now there was no wasted ice cream!
Ash stuck his tongue out as he saw Misty's disgust. "Hey, hey, this is useful stuff!"
"We've got napkins right here, doofus," she retorted.
"Yeah, but I'm teaching her how to have fun."
That got a giggle out of the group, save Pikachu.
Ash grinned. "Hey, buddy, you're not any better with ketchup. The only reason you don't spill is because you're too greedy."
The little electric type bristled a bit, embarrassed to be called out. "Pika!" he squeaked before darting over. He playfully nibbled at Ash's cheek a bit before licking off the excess ice cream there, grooming his friend.
"Hey, that hurt! And, tickled," Ash complained.
"You had that coming," Brock said with a laugh. "After all, Pikachu's just doing what you showed him, right?" He looked around. "Well, if everyone's done, we should head back. Eating outside's nice, but Dawn needs to get back in the dark. Empoleon, start helping her up, huh. Nice and slow."
"I'm not that bad off," Dawn insisted, but let herself be helped up.
He hummed in response. "Yeah, well, consider this a bit of pampering until the week-long observation period passes, huh?" He stood on Dawn's other side, helping Empoleon keep the coordinator in the shade under the parasol they'd brought for her.
"... He's gonna make a good boyfriend one day," Misty idly noted as she got up. As she did, Ash caught her elbow. "Aw, hey, I'm kidding, I'm kidding, don't tell me you're the jealous type."
"Huh? What? Oh, no, you're right, he will." He waved her comment off. "I wanted to thank you. For the other day." He flexed his hand now that he'd let go of her. He watched Rosa trail after Empoleon. Pikachu hung back at his side. "I needed someone to snap me out of… Well… Whatever might've happened, Proton wasn't worth it."
There was a long pause, a comfortable silence between the two.
Then, Misty clapped her hand on Ash's shoulder. "You've really grown up, huh? I'm proud of it. You're not the brat I used to know. You're really becoming a man, looking out for your family and keeping them safe." She turned away from him, walking to catch up with the others. "Maybe you'll be stronger than me one day, even!"
Ash scoffed. "I'll bet anything I already am! You've seen me slug!"
"I didn't say you weren't good! I'm just, you know, better."
"Arm wrestle me! Now!"
"Mm… Pass."
"Afraid you'll lose?"
"You know what?" She looked at him. "Maybe I am."
He startled. He'd been prepared to flex his muscles as proof. Instead, he grinned dumbly. "... Yeah, well, I always thought you were strong when we were younger. Nice to know I finally caught up."
Misty laughed. "You were bound to. You're incredible, Ash."
"Thanks, Misty."
A woman with auburn hair tied in a ponytail hummed, setting down a plate, with napkins and silverware to match. "Thank you, Mimey!" She chimed, accepting a teapot that was set in the center of the dining table, beside a vase of white daisies, their fragrance twisting with the nostalgic, savory scents of a home cooked meal.
"Mime, Mime!" Mimey hummed, wiping the kitchen counter clean with enthusiastic diligence.
"Now, we're all set for-"
A loud knock on the door interrupted Delia's thought, and she clutched her fist over her chest. "Coming~!"
Eagerness beat frightful anticipation to the door, and she turned the knob, pulling open her front door.
"Don't you have your keys?"
"It's not usually locked, so I wasn't thinking about it," Ash excused, shrugging off his backpack to check. By the time he'd done so, he looked up to see none other than his mother standing before him.
That hardly prepared him for the airtight embrace that followed.
"Ash, honey!" Delia held on for dear life, hiding her face in the shoulder that Pikachu hadn't occupied. "You had me worried sick!" So much for the composure she'd worked so hard to build before his appearance.
The trio of friends looked on, their smiles bittersweet.
Ash was silent, this time; he'd seen this coming. His only struggle was to breathe in the tight hold he'd been pulled into. "Sorry, Mom." He returned the embrace, careful not to graze the bandage covering his left cheek.
"Pi-pi." Pikachu clung to Ash's head, patting Delia's shoulder with his tail.
After what felt like an eternity, Delia pulled back, wiping her eyes. "I had to embarrass you, this time."
"Nah, I understand." Ash smiled, shaking his head. He'd been in her shoes now, sort of. He knew that fright. "Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. I was told to keep my mouth shut for a little while." As soon as he let that sentence slip, he shot a look at Misty. A look that said 'not a word.'
The redhead caught this and only smirked.
Delia finally had a chance to stop and absorb the scene. Namely, her son. A few scratches on his arms hadn't escaped her notice, but they were hardly a concern. Ever since he was a boy, he tended to get roughed up. The large bandage on his face, however, wasn't typical. Under that white patch was certainly yet another scar. One after another took their toll. She sighed. "You just can't stay out of trouble, can you…?" Ash looked guilty, and she blinked. "Oh, what am I doing holding you all at the door? Come inside, if you want lunch! There's no way you all aren't hungry after the walk over."
Ash, Pikachu, Dawn, Misty, and Brock, all lit up, slipping by the matriarch.
"I appreciate you picking up the slack," Brock chuckled, lingering behind the rest of the group. "Don't get me wrong, I love cooking for the gang, but I'm sure you understand the value in a day off."
"Trust me, dear, between the Pallet House and Ash, I know it too well." On that, note… "Oh, honey! Don't worry about that bandage; I made everyone something soft and easy to eat!"
"Alright; curry rice!" Ash took a seat, his mouth watering. "No one makes it like you, Mom." He quickly swallowed, looking awkwardly to Brock. "I mean…"
"Hey, don't look at me next time I overcook yours." Brock smirked. Getting a look at Ash's mortified face, he chuckled. "Kidding! Every chef has their specialty. As long as my stews are still your favorite, you haven't broken any hearts, here."
"Unless I meet a soup chef, then, yours are my favorite," Ash teased back, scrunching his nose as he sat down and began to serve himself.
After a moment, Misty snatched the curry bowl, insisting that he didn't need that much for his rice. Brock assured Dawn that she didn't need to worry about the spice since there was also yogurt while Mr. Mime brought Pikachu a bottle of ketchup to put over his rice.
As she dipped a piece of bread into her plate, Delia spoke up. "So, Ash," she began, "I got a letter in the mail about your hospital visit. Will you need any more follow up care?"
Almost choking on his meal, Ash hurried waved his hands in front of him. "Mom, no, oh my gosh. You don't even need to worry about that. I thought I set up a payment plan before I left?! They're supposed to defer payment 'til after summer! It's fine; I'm going to pay for it out of my league winnings!"
She frowned, crossing her arms. "I am not going to let you use your spending money on a hospital bill. I'll start making payments."
"Mom, no! That's dumb! You already got the house and the restaurant! I'm grown! Lemme worry about this!"
"You're sixteen."
He whipped out his pokedex from his pocket, actually standing up and leaning across the table. "See?! See! I'm not a minor, I pay my own bills, I can pay this!"
As Ash and Delia fussed, Brock and Misty ate without a care in the world. Dawn, however, was wide eyed, looking out of the corner of her eye to Empoleon who was eating fish and fries with Mr. Mime in the living room. Was this normal?! The arguing, the issue with the bill?! She supposed Ash was two years older than her, so he might have felt the need to take charge whereas she'd just thoughtlessly had the bill sent home, but she'd never argued with her mother like this! They were more like brother and sister than mother and child!
"Just eat, Dawn," Brock interrupted. "They'll be fine in a minute. Delia's never been too much of an authority figure to Ash."
Hearing this, Delia spoke up. "Hey, I can boss all four of you around just fine."
As Brock scrambled to explain himself, Misty howled with laughter. She turned to Dawn. "What he meant to say before he put his foot in his mouth is that Delia talks very evenly with Ash. He loves and respects her, but, well…" She waved her hand. "They have at it."
Ash nodded, winking at Dawn. "Mom's super reliable but ultra-cool, and so am I!"
Noting his confidence, Delia put a hand under her chin, smiling sweetly. "Oh? Are you bragging to her about how reliable you are? How charming!"
"... Aw, Mom, I didn't mean it like that! C'mon, c'mon, don't embarrass me like that!" Ash whined.
As Delia and Ash started up again, Misty once again broke into laughter. Brock kept eating while Dawn only furrowed her brows. She supposed this was fine. What wasn't fine, however, was the timeline.
"Oh, yeah. Um, guys, since we're at Ash's house, what do we need to do to get to the Indigo Conference? The Lily of the Valley Conference was on an island, so do we need to book tickets on a ferry or something?"
Brock shook his head. "No. We're going to walk there. I suggest we ride some of our pokemon to get us to the casual trail up to Indigo Plateau, but there's only a train from the plateau to Viridian City, and it's always packed with regular commuters. Plus, if we go the long way, we can all train together with Ash!"
"Walk? But, there's only a week between the conference and now!" Dawn insisted.
Misty waved her hand. "It's fine. The casual path takes maybe a day and a half if you walk it. We won't be going on the real Victory Road. That's a nightmare, haha! It'd take about three days if you only walk in it, and you gotta pack right."
Ash seemed to catch onto Misty's words. He looked at Pikachu from the corner of his eye. "Three days, isolated on Victory Road, huh?" He focused on everyone else present. "No matter which way we go, it doesn't matter! I know I'm ready. … A little last-minute practice can't hurt."
The price of excellence of character and of skill was steep; it had cost Ash and his friends blood, sweat, and tears. But, he knew, very soon, he'd be rewarded handsomely for his efforts. He was glad they'd be there beside him the whole time.
The wages of the wicked were heavy with bones and gold, and thus Giovanni did not dine in anything less than opulence. Heavy hands with pinkie rings rested on the dark table cloth. As the salad course was placed before all of them, he picked up his fork and stabbed it down.
"I'm not about to get indigestion over you incompetent cretins," he said, voice heavy with contempt. "You know our big plans for the next year, hell, probably the next couple of years, are flushed. You got all got us flushed into the public eye, like a bunch of Rattata tossed into the street." He pointed an accusatory finger at Ariana. "You, especially. Arrested! You're damn lucky I still got favors owed to me by a couple of airports, or I'd leave your ass to rot in jail. Who knows what kind of legal weight I'm going to have to throw around to keep investigators from coming after you for your court date. And, the lawyers! Always, always, lawyers! You can't go out in disguise anymore! You're only for obvious missions now!"
He looked at Archer, then. "And, you. How did two gym leaders get in on this? Did you or did you not confirm to me that the power plant was dead in the water, as you put it?"
Archer took the chiding in silence, much the same way Ariana had.
The man looked around the table, glare landing on Petrel and an oddly empty seat by him. "Where's Proton? Licking his wounds, I guess. What a punk. Gets whooped by a kid and can't even be man enough to come to dinner with a black eye. Chump."
Giovanni bit into his salad.
"Zager, thank you for showing a degree of competence and fleeing before you could be arrested. You are a valuable asset to this organization and we cannot function without your efforts."
Being praised personally by the boss, Dr. Zager's pride swelled. "Well, thank you, Boss."
"Now, finally, the newest additions to our little inner circle. Jessie, James, and… Meowth." It felt odd to have a pokemon at his table, but James had begged the staff to get a little chair for Meowth rather than just having the cat in his lap. "You two… Three… Have shown excellent leadership skills and an unprecedented increase in success in the field. I'm going to wrap up all but absolutely vital operations here in Kanto, but we're going to be headed to Unova for a bit." He gestured to the professor. "You three will be directly working with Dr. Zager. What he needs, you give him. What he invents, you get first pick from. Understand?"
"Yes, Boss!" the three said in unison.
Jessie, James, and Meowth cast excited looks at one another. They'd done it! Their loyalty to the team hadn't been compromised, and neither had their morals! The eagerly dug into their meals, content to bask in the limelight that was Giovanni's approval.
Oak's laboratory sat on the edge of Pallet Town, fencing a vast, populated ranch that spanned grassy hills, dense woodlands, and shallow ponds. Pokemon owned by Pallet's trainers roamed freely, content to live quietly and simply train with one another.
Today, forests and ponds were quiet; many pokemon that normally went about their business had crowded on the hills, behind the laboratory. Huddled in a circle around one young man and his Pikachu.
"It's good to be back." Ash knelt on one knee, looking over his wide variety of companions. Charizard and Sceptile coolly hung back, content to project their tough facade. The leader of Ash's herd of Tauros butted his way towards the front. Heracross, Glalie, Rosa, and Meema hung close, having been released from their pokeballs moments before. Misdreavus opted to float in Ash and Glalie's vicinity.
They all waited quietly for Ash to continue speaking.
"I know it's a hassle to get everyone over here, but I wanted to say something to each and every one of you… Well, I guess I have two things to say." Ash brushed a finger over the bridge of his nose.
"First of all… I'm sorry."
Most of his pokemon looked on in perplexed silence, and others chattered in protest.
"Only some of you know what I'm talking about already, but this journey's been a wild one. We've had a lot of fun times, but we've been dragged into some pretty miserable stuff, too. Team Rocket's been more active than ever, and I couldn't just sit around and let them hurt people and pokemon. I never knew just how vicious they were, but I guess I shouldn't be surprised."
He reached to scratch gently behind Rosa's ear. Her unease could be felt without any extrasensory abilities.
"I'm sorry that some of you got dragged into that mess. You've been great companions, sticking through thick and thin."
Pikachu's ears pinned back, a scowl forming on his features.
Ash stammered. "A-anyway! That brings me to the second thing I had to say. I wanted to say thank you. In the past few months, a lot's changed. We've all changed, I think. Mt. Silver, the gym challenge, supporting Dawn, with her contests… And, going out of our way to do the right thing. I couldn't've done all of that without you." The boy sniffled, rubbing his eye. "You guys're… The best friends a trainer could have!"
"Bulba…" Hanging towards the front, the Seed pokemon soothed, extending a vine. The tendril reached past Ash's glove, wiping the tears from his eye. "Bulbasaur!"
Ash's lower lip trembled. "Bulbasaur… Aw, what're you all waiting for? C'mere!" He stood with open, waiting arms. He wasn't kept waiting for long.
Predictably, Ash ended up on the grass again, pinned and swarmed by his many pokemon. He bumped fists with Wartortle and Infernape, hugged Tyranitar, and took the usual punishment from Crawdaunt and Meganium; Glalie decided to hang back, aware of what had gone down just a few days ago.
After a lot of hugging and petting, Ash stood in the midst of his pokemon, once again.
"I'm sure you all've gotten to know the newer members of our group, by now. But, just in case, I'll introduce 'em!" Ash gestured to Misdreavus first. "Misdreavus helped me down Mt. Silver after Pikachu's battle with Moltres, where he totally kicked ass." He winked at the mouse on his shoulder, patting his head.
Pikachu squeaked, rubbing the back of his head at the loud wave of praise he got.
"And, she couldn't leave us hanging on that trail toasted, so she joined our group. You're happy to be with us, aren't ya?"
"...Misdreavus?" Where'd she gone?
"Mis~!" The ghost popped up in Ash's face, tickled by the chance to spook him.
"Very funny… You met Tyranitar during our training," he gestured to the Armor pokemon. "I met him years ago, in Johto, when he was still just a Larvitar egg. It's good to have you back!"
The large pokemon uncharacteristically chirped, filled with a warm, fuzzy feeling for being acknowledged.
"Two more old friends that only some of you knew, back in the day; Haunter and Primeape!"
"Oosh! Ooshi!" Primeape snorted, throwing a few jabs.
"Hau-hau!" Haunter spun about, his eyes and tongue spinning with him.
A few in the audience seemed disturbed, but Wartortle laughed, which was enough to satisfy the ghoul.
"Then, there's Rosemary. You joined us after our mountain training. But, that doesn't mean you're not one tough cookie!" The trainer winked, patting the top of her head.
~You betcha!~ The Aura pokemon chimed; she'd hung back during the hug fest, but she was back to clinging to Ash's side.
"Last, but definitely not least," Ash emphasized, "Meema! She's a Zoroark from the Unova region; we met 'er chasing down a crook when we were over there, on vacation. She'll be a great friend to all of you… But, if you're a bad guy, watch out." He grinned.
Meema hung back beside Rosa, having mostly kept to herself. When Ash referred to her exploits, though, she lifted her head, sporting a proud smile. ~It's an honor to be part of this pack. I'll guard it with my life.~
"Always gotta be dramatic, huh," Ash frowned. "Then again, I can't talk… Well, now, we're all introduced! That just leaves one more thing." The trainer stood tall, tipping the brim of his cap. "The pokemon league's only a few days away. And, I'll tell you one thing; we're going to win first place!"
Enthusiastic cheers drowned out Ash's voice, clamoring the very same sentiment.
"And, I guess I lied when I said I'll tell you one thing; there's something else I wanna tell you guys. I talked to Professor Oak, earlier, about the tournament. He ran some numbers through on you guys and the rounds; if we make it all the way to the finals… Then, there's just enough room for every one of you to have a chance to battle!"
Once again, he was met with enthusiastic applause.
"And, I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm counting on you guys to give it 110%, and bring home the gold! Are you with me!?"
Another round of cheers was his answer.
"Ash! Ash!?"
"Eh?" Ash turned from his motivational speech back towards the lab. Professor Oak was poking his head out of the door.
"I admire your motivational speaking, but could you try to keep the ruckus down a little? I can't very well do my work with a static marching band in my backyard."
"Ahaha… Whoops. Sorry, Professor!" Ash rubbed the back of his head. He turned to Pikachu, next. "I've got a great feeling about this thing. Don't you, Pikachu?"
"Pika… Pikachu!" The mouse leaned over, nuzzling his cheek.
What Brock had said before proved to be true. Dawn gleefully saw that after a short ride on some of their larger team members, they'd reach the foothills that soon jutted into sheer cliffs before Indigo Plateau.
"Oh man, I bet the view is great! We could probably make it up in a day if we hurry, but let's camp one night, okay?!" Dawn enthused.
Brock laughed. "Well, we still need to make sure we get lodging, so we shouldn't spend more than three days out here, and knowing our luck, one night spent out here intentionally is pushing it."
Misty threw an arm over Dawn's shoulder. "Don't mind him. He's still biased towards rock types. This place is swarming with 'em even if we aren't on Victory Road. Don't worry; between you and Empoleon and me and my water types, we won't have a single worry." She pinched her thumb and index finger together smugly.
"Misty, you know that's not what I'm worried about," Brock insisted. "Let's just go up the easy trail already. I don't feel like arguing."
"We're going on Victory Road," Ash suddenly said, having spent the last-minute staring intently at the sign that marked the fork in the road.
"Ash!" Dawn chided. "You heard Brock."
He turned around, an intense look in his eye. "No. We're," he said, jutting his thumb at himself and then Pikachu on his shoulder, "going on Victory Road. If you guys go ahead and reserve a room, it's fine, right?"
Misty looked at him seriously, her lips pursed. "Is that a good idea?"
He nodded. "I've got eight gym badges and this time no one can contest them. The guys at the counter gotta let me through."
Brock sighed. "I wish you would have told me that before we left town… Here, I'll give you my supplies for medicine and half of my pokechow. Me and the girls are going quicker, so hopefully we won't need it." He unzipped his backpack and Ash followed him down, the two swapping supplies.
Dawn had been quiet after hearing his reasoning. As Ash stood back up with a fuller backpack, she reached out, taking his hand. "... I think I know why you're doing this, but… Don't push yourself, okay?"
Feeling happy to be understood, Ash pulled the coordinator into a hug. "Hey, no need to worry!"
"That's my phrase!" she whined.
"Yeah, yeah! But, listen! I need to make sure I'm in tip top shape for the league, okay? It's like when you and Clefairy went off by yourselves that night. You understand, don't you?"
"Yes! That's why I only want you to be careful. We can't come get you quick if you end up getting lost." She was teasing him now, her fears set at ease.
"It's a cave going up!" he spat back, playing along. He took his arms off her. "C'mon, I know up from down!"
Realizing Ash wouldn't be traveling with them, Empoleon squawked at Pikachu. "Empo, Empo!" he insisted, letting Pikachu know the water type would only be a Thunderbolt's signal away.
Comforted by Empoleon's offer, Pikachu let out a chiming cry. "Cha!"
With all parties understanding the situation, Ash tipped the brim of his cap to them. "See you guys in… two days?"
"I'm coming in after you on the third, so don't make me wait," Misty warned.
"There's no way he'd willingly stay in there three days when he's going to be going without real food," Dawn said with a hand wave.
"You've got good confidence in him, Dawn. On the other hand… Try not to get lost. Seriously. I'm not kidding with that. Trainers have gotten lost in there and needed to get rescued. Maybe try marking a trail or something," Brock warned.
Ash nodded. "A trail, got it. Okay, we're going! See you guys!"
"Bye, Ash!" "See you, Ketchum." "Take care!"
Jogging towards the gate barring entry into Victory Road, Ash felt happy none of the others had pried deeper into his reasoning. They probably knew it wasn't just to prepare for the league. After all the unfortunate happenings, the trainer just wanted a little one on one time with his team; Pikachu, in particular.
There'd be a narrow bottleneck at the beginning of the cave after the reception area, but soon they'd be on an adventure with just the two of them!
"About time we see some sunlight. I was gettin' cramped in here," Ash complained, a gloved hand trailing the walls of the cavern that had been their way in. He blinked, adjusting to the coming daylight at the end of the tunnel.
"Piiika," Pikachu agreed, dashing ahead; there was hardly any room on Ash's shoulder in there, anyway. Stepping out of the enclosure and into sunlight, Pikachu cooed, tossing his head back. The early summer's warmth was a welcome change. He turned back, waiting for Ash.
The trainer stepped out, next, finally comfortable to stand at full height. "So, this is Victory Road…" Ash lifted the brim of his cap. Before them was a long, bone-dry valley, with slopes on either side climbing high. "Guess we ought to get started." Ash walked on, with Pikachu waddling at his side.
The occasional Geodude floated by, giving the duo a suspicious look before going about their business. Diglett occasionally popped out of the ground.
"I've got a way to pass the time. Whoever spots a Diglett poppin' up first gets a point," Ash suggested. "You down?"
"Pi!"
"Aha! There's one." One had popped out of a small crack in the slope.
"Pika!"
"You beat me to that one… Oh, another!"
"Chu…"
The game went on for a couple of minutes, until the moles had all but disappeared.
"I think I lost count…" Ash folded his arms behind his head. "Let's just call that a tie."
Pikachu hummed in agreement, though he couldn't help but wonder if that was simply a cover for losing. Suddenly, he stopped, his ears perking up; he swore he'd heard a faint cry. "Pi?"
Ash turned to him, hands gripping the straps of his backpack. "What is it, Pikachu?"
The mouse tilted his head, black-tipped ears twitching. "Pikachu…" He wasn't quite sure. He tilted his nose up, sniffing the air. He caught a scent, and dashed forward. "Pika-Pikachu!"
"Hey, wait up!" Ash ran after his companion. "What's the big idea?"
"Dgooo!" A shrill wail caught his attention, and Pikachu's attention. "Pidgoo!"
The duo skidded to a halt, looking about for the source of the cries.
Ash swallowed. "Up there," he pointed, towards the top of one of the slopes.
A Pidgeotto flailed and cried, otherwise unmoving. Even beats of its wings didn't give it flight.
Ash squinted. He could soon see why. "...It's stuck!" There seemed to be a small boulder pinning one of Pidgeotto's feet to the ledge. Ash could feel his heart sink into his stomach at the sight.
"Pikachu…" Pikachu's ears fell. He squinted before leaping for the valley slope, scampering to climb the heights to rescue Pidgeotto. He sprinted and climbed with all his might, only to slide back down to the bottom. He sighed. "Pika."
"It's no good… The valley's too steep." Ash crossed his arms, impatiently tapping his foot. He rocked on his heels. There had to be a way to save it! "Come on, Ketchum, think…!"
Finally, he snapped his fingers. "Got it! Pikachu, I'm gonna need your help." The trainer held his arms out for the mouse.
"Pi?" Pikachu didn't follow, but he was willing to try anything. He hopped into Ash's arms.
"Neither of us can jump that high… So, I'm gonna throw you up there, so you can bust that boulder with Iron Tail! That sound good to you?"
"Pika… Pikachu!" Pikachu nodded frantically. It had to be done!
The teen stepped back, rearing his arms back, with Pikachu in a tight grip. "Okay… One… Two…!"
"Bombs away!" Ash spun, chucking Pikachu overhand into the air.
"Piiii!" Pikachu quickly climbed the heights, soaring through the air. He drew closer, and closer…
"Pi!" He was high enough, now! "Chua….!" Pikachu twisted his hips, tensing the muscles in his tail.
"Pika!"
Pidgeotto squawked, hiding her head under her wings. Iron Tail crashed into the heavy stone, suddenly slicing it in two. The halves fell off the ledge, rolling harmlessly down the slope.
"Piii…" Pikachu landed, holding a paw out to the bird. "Pika!"
"Pii…" Pidgeotto whimpered, lifting a wing from her eyes. "Pi-dgooo!"
Both yelped, finding themselves with no ground to stand on. Iron Tail had split the ledge!
The startled cries of both caught Ash's attention, and he narrowed his eyes, turning his cap around. "I've got you! Don't worry!" Backing up several steps, he held his arms out.
"I gotcha!" Leaning back on the balls of his heels, he yanked the mouse and bird in alike. Their fall brought Ash down to the ground with them, with a thud.
"Ergh… I got ya," he laughed, hugging both pokemon to his chest.
"Pikachu…" Pikachu shook his head, regaining his bearings. "Pikapi!" He cheered, nuzzling into Ash's cheek.
"Good job, bud!" The trainer lifted a fist, bumping his with his companion's.
"Pidgoo…!"
The bird's whining regained Ash's attention. "That must've been scary… How're you…!" He gasped. One of the pokemon's toes was a deep blue. Ash winced. "Yeowch… You musta gotten your talon stuck under that rock, huh… That's gotta hurt." With care, he pulled the pokemon in, lightly stroking its feathers.
"Pidge," she whined, pecking at one of Ash's stray bangs.
"I didn't recruit ya for a haircut, but thanks," Ash smiled. He recalled Pidgeot trying to straighten his wild mess of a bedhead more than once; it was apparently a sign of affection or gratitude among the evolution line, but he couldn't help but wonder if they just mistook it for a nest.
"Now, let's get you fixed up-"
"Pidg!" Pidgeotto cried, throwing her wing out.
"Huh? What's up? I can't help you if you don't stay still."
"Dgoo!" She gestured frantically forward, further down the path.
"You got somewhere you wanna go…? Alright, you've got it. We were heading that way, anyway." Ash stood, continuing down the path. Pikachu walked at his side, occasionally watching Pidgeotto.
The tan monotony of the dry, rocky path eventually lightened into patches of green, and soon after, a vibrant woodland environment that lined the cliffs and caverns. Pidgeotto frantically chirped when they neared the trees, wriggling around in Ash's arms.
"Hey, take it easy! You can't wrestle around like that in your condition," he huffed.
"Pikapi!"
Ash looked up, and gasped.
A swarm of Pidgey had crowded the trio, shrieking and chattering at Ash.
"...Oh!" Ash looked between the frantic flock and the larger bird in his arms. He raised a hand. "It's not what it looks like; we didn't- ah!"
The Pidgey had begun to peck and kick at Ash, even pecking at his jacket. When he guarded his face with his shoulder, they went for his arms and hands. The commotion knocked Ash over on his rear with a thud.
"Yeowch…" Ash hissed; but, with Pidgeotto in his arms, there wasn't much he could do, but scoot back with his feet! "Hey, take it- ouch… Easy! I'm not gonna hurt ya!" True to his nature and his word, defending himself was out of the question.
"Pi-Pikaaa! Pikachu!" Pikachu intervened, waving his arms. He hopped atop Ash's head. "Cut it out! Hear us out; he isn't a bad guy!" He frowned, waving his free paw. Maybe they'd listen to another pokemon!
The squawking stopped, and the Pidgey lurched back, hovering a safe distance away. Their feathers had bristled at the sight of the Pikachu; an electric type was something they knew instinctively not to mess with. Still, they chattered angrily at Ash and Pikachu.
Ash hummed, puzzled. How were they going to calm them down?
"Pidgooo!"
Silence followed, everyone looking to the bird in Ash's lap.
"Piiii-Pidgoo! Dgooo!" She cried, gesturing to the Pidgey, and then to Ash and Pikachu.
The Pidgey landed, shrinking in stature. Their gaze avoided Ash, Pikachu, and Pidgeotto alike.
"Well, that was easy…" The trainer sat up, looking down at the second-stage pokemon. "Thanks, Pidgeotto. You must know 'em, huh…" His gaze lingered. Something was off about Pidgeotto's mouth. There was a smear of purple painting the hook of the beak. Ash's nose twitched. "...Berry juice?"
He snapped his fingers. "I get it, now! Pidgeotto's a mother, and you must be her babies, right?"
A couple subdued coos, and a louder whine from Pidgeotto were his answer.
"And, she was just trying to get some food for you… That's why you were up on that ledge?"
Pidgeotto nodded, easing into Ash's chest.
"Well, I can promise you that I'm only here to help your mom, not hurt her… But, I guess I really gotta earn your trust, huh." For all they knew, he could be a poacher; recent unfortunate events solidified that case in Ash's mind. The thought sickened him, but he chased it away, shrugging off his backpack. "Pikachu, could ya get into the berry pouch?"
"Pi!" Pikachu saluted his trainer, nudging the bag onto its side, poking around before unbuttoning a pouch. Oran Berries began to roll out, and he'd hold one up to Ash.
"Thanks," Ash accepted it, holding it up to Pidgeotto's mouth. "Down the hatch!"
She took a bite into the fruit, pausing before leaning forward in Ash's lap. She hummed without opening her mouth, and several of the young Pidgey approached. Initially to the trainer's confusion, she hung over his arms, spitting munched up berry into their mouths.
"That was for you…!" Ash scratched his cheek. "You really needed your strength… But, that's a mom for you, huh." His own mother came to mind, as did Meema and her Rura. "I'll save one for ya… Babies first, it is, then!" He reached for another Oran Berry, holding it in his hand.
He looked between the fruit, and Pidgeotto feeding several of her children. A few still stood waiting for their turn as she took another bite to feed. Ash looked back down at the berry in his palm.
"Pikapi."
A stern call of his name, resembling a scold, caught Ash's attention, and he looked to Pikachu. The mouse was staring him down. A stare that said, 'I know what you're about to do, and don't.'
"I wasn't really gonna do it!" Ash insisted, sounding offended at the accusation. He totally hadn't thought of imitating the parent and assisting her children in much the same way. He huffed indignantly, before squashing the Oran Berry in his palm, instead. "C'mere, guys."
He fed the remaining hungry pokemon with mushed fruit pinched between his fingers. With their mother's nods of approval, they pecked at the meal with care. Their hostility towards Ash had faded.
The family was soon sated, loud with content chirps as Ash handfed Pidgeotto a Sitrus Berry. "You're the one who needs to heal up, so here."
The bird reluctantly accepted, feeling this a stain on her pride. But, it would be rude to turn down an offering from a boy who'd saved her from a nasty situation.
"...Speaking of healing up. Show me that toe of yours? We're gonna need to fix that up, so you can get back to walkin' and flyin' on your own."
The avian shifted uncomfortably in Ash's lap. She cried, putting weight on the wrong spot. Getting comfortable was difficult.
"There, there," Ash soothed, running a hand along her head feathers. "I'm gonna have ya sit belly-up, okay? It'll be easy to reach your foot, and you won't have any weight on it."
Pidgeotto whined, and allowed Ash to lift her, sitting her back down in his lap.
Her offspring watched, uttering the occasional worried chatter.
"Could ya scoot the medicine pack over, Pikachu?"
"Pika!" Pikachu dragged the bag closer, lifting it upright to expose one of the larger pockets towards the front. Zippers weren't really his strong point, so he opted to gently pat Pidgeotto with his tail. "Pika-Pika!" She'd be feeling better in no time!
With one free hand, Ash undid the zipper, grabbing a small first-aid kit. He popped it open. "Where's the… Aha!" He grabbed the small bottle of antiseptic. "Alright, I'm gonna warn ya, this is gonna sting a bit, alright? It's gonna clean out whatever wound this gave ya, so it won't get infected and end up hurting worse."
Pidgeotto instinctively flinched, the talons on her healthy foot digging into Ash's arm.
"Hey, I know, I know. Well, not long ago, I had to deal with the same thing; only, I had it a lot worse! You're getting off lucky," he teased, winking at the pokemon in his lap.
"Pidgoooo." The pokemon stared him down. She seriously doubted it.
"Y'callin' me a liar?" Even as he said this, he flashed a playful grin, pointing to the sliver of discolored skin running across his cheek, with the hand holding the antiseptic. "I needed that cleaned up. And, I was just fine, so you will be, too!"
Pikachu kicked the dirt, averting his eyes to avoid saying anything. According to Brock, he'd actually whined a lot. But, the last thing they needed was a frightened injured pokemon.
The bird silenced, genuinely impressed. Not only was this young man compassionate, but he'd seen his share of battles, too. She chirped a low coo, signaling her trust, and she held up her foot.
"Alright…" Ash gently lifted her leg, spraying a light mist on the injured toe.
Pidgeotto shrieked, and her babies were worked back into a clamor.
"I know, it hurts… That's the worst of it, I promise! Just think about how you'll recover quick, and get to fly through the sky with your babies again," he'd lull, quietly switching the medicine for a Max Potion. He gently sprayed another round on, before the initial sting had numbed.
Pidgeotto had tensed, but didn't seem to notice the difference.
"Far as I've heard, a broken toe ain't like a wing or an arm; all y'can do is keep it straight so it can heal on its own. So, that's what we're gonna do." Ash was incredibly grateful, right now, that he'd spent so much time with Brock. Not that he hadn't seen his share of mishaps on his own, but the man's ever-present expertise had turned out to be a vital asset.
Pidgeotto listened, silent, watching Ash pull something else out of his kit; a roll of fabric, unfamiliar to the pokemon. It was a small wrap of gauze, that Ash held up to Pidgeotto before snipping it with a small scissor.
"Hold your tongue 'n think of something y'really like. Whenever I've gotten patched up, I like to think of a sunny day out with my pokemon, or a home-cooked meal from my mom, or winning a Pokemon League," he'd narrate, while gently tying a tiny snippet of gauze around the avian's broken toe. A sliver of medical tape was lightly pressed on, keeping the makeshift cast steady.
"...And, we're done!" Ash winked, flashing a thumbs-up.
"Pidgoo!" The bird trilled, trying to sit up. She wasn't having much luck.
"I'll get ya settled, but first," Ash prefaced, his voice stern. "You're gonna need to walk and sit, so lemme warn you; keep your weight off the front of this foot, alright? Take it easy until it really feels healed."
Pidgeotto nodded.
"Second, try 'n keep the cast from getting wet. Third, once you're 100% again, grab it with your beak and pull it off. 'Till then, leave it alone so nothin' goes wrong. Sound good?"
"Pidgoo."
"Good. Pikachu, lend me a hand, here?"
"Pi!" Pikachu walked over, watching while Ash carefully hoisted the bird right-side up, slowly lowering it to the grass. He supported her weight on her weaker side, allowing her to gently step down.
Pidgeotto hissed.
"Easy, easy," Ash warned. "Let Pikachu get ya steady and remember what I told ya."
With a bit of balancing from both parties, Pidgeotto stood. She took several steps forward with care. She held her wings out for balance, keeping her grounded.
"Great!" Ash snapped his fingers, victorious. "You're good to go." The trainer packed up his supplies in succession, zipping up his backpack. Then, he stood. "But, we gotta go; Pikachu and I have something coming up soon that we just can't miss! So, take care of yourselves, alright?"
Pidgeotto trilled, happily raising a wing to the duo in thanks. "Pidgoo!"
"Pikachuuu!" Pikachu approached the Pidgey, chattering his best wishes before running to scale Ash's shoulder. "Pika-Pika~!"
Chatter among the Pidgey voiced their thanks, and they began escorting their mother, with full bellies and quelled fears.
Ash, meanwhile, continued between the trees on his way forward. He looked to Pikachu, and the two exchanged a smile, their hearts full of joy for the experience.
The walk went on in comfortable silence, how long exactly, Ash wasn't quite sure. The soothing sounds of rustling bushes and chattering Nidoran kept him and Pikachu company. Trees and tall grass went on for what felt like miles.
Suddenly, Ash's brisk walk slowed to a halt, his head turned towards the sky. "Holy cow… What a giant!" The giant in question was a towering coniferous tree, with thick branches climbing the skies.
"Piiika," Pikachu hummed, looking up in awe.
"Dare ya to climb it with me," Ash grinned at Pikachu.
The mouse stared at him, wide-eyed. "Pika!" He scolded, pointing upwards. They were going to climb that!? After Ash just got out of the hospital? He refused to see him get hurt again!
Ash hummed, resting his hands on his hips. "I didn't mean climbing all the way up!"
Pikachu's gaze didn't waver.
"...I know, I know. Tell ya what. I've got Charizard right here." Ash hoisted a pokeball from his waist before clipping it back to his belt. "If things get hairy, I'll call on him, alright?"
"Pii…. Pikachu." The mouse nodded, before jumping to scale the bark. Soon enough, he hopped atop a branch, himself! "Pika-Pika!"
"Already getting a head-start, huh? Alright!" Ash grinned, wrapping his arms around the trunk of the tree to scoot himself up. He reached the first branch soon, not quite as quickly as Pikachu, but he did, nonetheless. "I'm right behind you, bud! Try not to fall behind."
"Pi… Pika!" Pikachu took the bait, leaping up to the next.
"You're lucky we trained you so well…" Ash huffed, moving on to repeat the cycle.
Their game of Ash-and-mouse went on and on, until the view from above was beginning to make Ash dizzy. He clung to a particularly wide branch, clutching a branch just above for balance. "I think we're high enough… Yeah, we're definitely gonna need Charizard, for this one."
"Pikaaa." Pikachu whistled, scooting into Ash's lap. He was definitely grateful he'd made Ash make that promise. But, with that put aside… The view was absolutely incredible.
"Holy hell… Check that out." Ash lifted the brim of his cap with his free hand. Copper hues grew at the breathtaking sight beyond and below. The caverns and slopes of Victory Road rose and fell below, peppered with trees, rocky terrain, and sparkling bodies of water.
The large lake bordering the path to the Pokemon League could be seen over the ledges, waters calm as could be. Beyond that, was the prize they'd had their eyes on for so long. The jewel on the horizon.
"Piii." Pikachu hummed, leaning back into Ash's torso. He saw it, too; the Indigo Plateau.
Pokemon League Village sat just past the lake, and among its residential and commercial buildings was Indigo Stadium, itself. The colosseum, where pokemon trainers and their partners tested their ambition against one another. Where Ash and Pikachu would test their mettle.
"Looks so small from up here… But, it still feels so big. Y'know what I mean?"
"Pika," Pikachu nodded. Even from up here, he could feel the pressure. Their pounding hearts, already anticipating the battles to come. All the powerful trainers.
And, it was barely a speck on the map.
"Really makes the world feel huge... I mean, duh, but still. Y'never really realize it 'till you get a good look… Hard to believe we've seen so much of it. Since the first time we were here, after winning eight badges. Imagine thinking that was all there was for us to see," he laughed.
Pikachu nodded along. He didn't have anything to add; the view had him occupied. It was breathtaking, and humbling.
"...I don't wanna stop seeing it."
The mouse looked up to the teenager.
"The world, I mean. I know we put travelin' to new places aside for this adventure... So, we could really grow stronger. I'm glad we did, don't get me wrong! I've got no regrets. But, once we're done… I wanna see more places. More pokemon. More friends and rivals. Even if we do win the Championship."
"Pika. Pikachu!" Pikachu cooed, nuzzling his head into Ash's chest. He'd like nothing more!
"We'll go somewhere new again… We'll have the chance to feel small again in this big ol' world of ours. But, first… Before that… We're gonna make our mark. We're gonna shine big and bright, like the brightest star in the sky!" Ash removed his free hand from atop Pikachu's head, pointing forward.
"At the Indigo Plateau!"
"Pi-Pikachu!"
Ash and Pikachu's loud claim echoed, to be heard by the city on a hill ahead, they hoped.
Ash couldn't help but notice the shadows far below them shift. The skies were showing just the faintest tint of gold. "Looks like the sun's on its way out… Whaddya say we cover a lil' more ground before setting up camp for the night?"
"Pika!"
"Huh. This place ain't bad." After another long stroll, Ash stopped in his tracks, resting a hand on his hip. A small lake spanned out before the duo, crystal clear. Ribbons of gold vibrated gently on the surface from the slowly dipping sun, occasionally rippled by the rise and fall of a busy Poliwag. More flat lands spanned passed the lake, bordered by tall, rocky slopes.
And, lastly, a cluster of trees gathered towards the slope. Ash smiled. "Those'll give us some shade for when we doze off… That sound good to you, Pikachu?"
Pikachu smiled, his ears twitching. It looked like a pretty, cozy spot. The gentle scents of nature made his body feel at ease. "Pika, Pikachu!" This spot was perfectly fine with him.
"Great. Then, we can set up camp… But, whaddya say we go for a swim? Wouldn't wanna eat first and get cramps!"
"Pika!" Pikachu walked over to the edge of the lake, dipping the end of his tail in the water. He cooed. It was still pretty warm! That was one thing he truly loved about the few months of summer.
Ash, meanwhile, changed out of his traveling gear and into a swimsuit he'd brought along, just in case. Bundling his clothes up inside his backpack, set near the edge of the body of water, he walked beside Pikachu. "And, I'm set!" Hands on his hips, he looked down. Ash whistled.
"I can see what Misty meant when she said it looks like I went through a blender…" And, now he had that mark on his face, too. What a mess.
Pikachu's ears lowered, and Ash felt guilty. "...Aw, it's fine! I'll think of 'em like Gym Badges. Or, one of those 'I survived Gyarados Cove' t-shirts. They're bragging rights."
Pikachu smiled at Ash's optimism. That was one thing that'd never changed. It was nice to see him taking all his hardships in stride, at least. If he could do that, then Pikachu could, too! "Chu!" Content to leave the subject behind, he dove into the water, head-first.
"Don't leave me behind!" Ash took a running start, leaping into a cannonball. He hit the water, leaving a loud, resounding splash in his wake. Pikachu was doused.
Moments later, Ash emerged, his many wild bangs damp and hanging. For once, his tresses were tamed. "Pretty good cannonball, huh?"
Pikachu responded by shaking out his fur, splashing Ash back.
"Oh, so it's like that!" The teen guarded himself with his arm before swiping back, splashing Pikachu again.
"Pika…" Pikachu smirked, brushing water off his face with his paw. He turned, smacking the surface with Iron Tail. "Pika!"
Ash coughed and sputtered, wiping stray fringes out of his eye. "Now, you're using Iron Tail? That's totally cheating. You gonna level with me or wh- ghrbl!"
Ash had gotten a mouthful of water. "Pika, Pikachu!" There would be no cop-outs, here!
Ash coughed and sputtered, spitting up water. "You wanna play rough... Alright! You're mine," Ash announced, lunging to grab Pikachu. "If you're using Iron Tail, I'll use my Tackle attack!"
Pikachu gawked at his trainer before scrambling to paddle off.
Ash collided with the water, face-first, emerging to shake the hair out of his face. "A slippery sea dog, are ya? Then, just call me Kyogre!" He dove forward, paddling towards his fleeing companion.
"Pi…?" Pikachu stalled his doggy paddle to look back. Ash was quickly approaching! "Pikaaa!" He yelped, eyes nearly the size of his own head. He opted for a frantic breaststroke, holding his tail straight to reduce resistance.
But, it was no use; Ash was gaining on him, fast!
"You may be fast on the battlefield," Ash huffed, swimming ever closer. "But, y'haven't got your sea legs, yet! Sorry, buddy- ah!"
"Poli!" A Poliwhirl popped out from under the surface, only to dive back in. It seemed that Ash and Pikachu weren't the only ones swimming laps; Ash had been made aware of this the hard way, exhaling heavily. That'd been a jump scare… And, Pikachu was getting away!
"You got lucky, Pikachu, but I've got you now! Just wait till… I… Uh… Pikachu?" The teen kept himself afloat, looking every which way for the deserting mouse. "Where'd ya go?"
There was a bubble in the water. Ash squinted, turning his eyes on the disturbance. He smiled to himself. "Oh, I see. You think you can hide from me?" He reached for the bubbles.
Suddenly, something popped out of the water, making Ash hesitate. It was a pointy yellow fin!
"What kinda pokemon…? Could it be a Carvahna? But, why would they be in Kanto!?" Ash swallowed, keeping his distance. "Hey, whoever ya are, there… I'm not your enemy, alright? Just keep swimming, and I'll-"
There was a break in the lake. With a mighty splash, a terrifying creature emerged from the depths, towering over Ash, with a fearsome roar!
"Ahhh!" Ash yelped, springing back from his attacker, blue in the face.
The vicious attacker was… Pikachu!?
"Pikaaaaaaaa!" Pikachu had sprung from the deep, tiny canines bared, and paws held over his head as he made his entrance with a predatory gait.
He watched Ash fall backwards with a splash of his own, and held his gut, laughing to himself.
Ash surfaced, his tan cheeks lit with a bright red. He pouted. "Whaddya know… The infamous Shark Mouse. Alright, alright, you got me." Even as he complained, he smiled. "Well, then, if you're so scary, then, take this!" Ash swung both of his arms, splashing Pikachu.
The mouse guarded his eyes, and once he felt the waves come to an end, shook out his fur. "Pika-chu…. Pikapi?" It was his turn to flick his head about, to no avail. Only the occasional air bubble.
...Wait. Pikachu's eyes narrowed. "Pika." He wasn't falling for this. Smug, he went underwater, once more. The water didn't seem particularly deep, and only a few pokemon obscured his view, here and there. Ash had to be somewhere… He paddled, keeping his eyes peeled. The lack of sea salt or chlorine made his underwater surveillance easy.
He turned, and was greeted with a terrifying sight.
A dweller of the deep, with mean, pin-pointed eyes, pushed down by mean, long brows, and a wide-open mouth with terrifying fangs, gurgling bubbles in a growl that rumbled the deep.
Pikachu yelped a gurgled yelp, fleeing for the surface immediately.
"Ahahahaha! Got you!" Ash emerged as Pikachu heaved for breath. Long, green weeds stuck to Ash's forehead, forming the angry brows of a Gyarados. He clutched his gut, sore with laughter. "Oh, man, you should've seen your face!"
Pikachu pouted, squinting at Ash. He cracked a smile, then hollered.
The duo's laughter echoed through the valley above all else, resounding even after the laughing had stopped.
Ash and Pikachu floated atop the calm waters, coasting on their backs. Their smiles spanning to the marks on their respective cheeks. Their faces were coated in a vibrant orange from the setting sun. Reds, yellows, and blues joined it in the skies, following the receding star in the sky.
A long silence followed before Ash sighed. "Back during our early adventures, we used to do stuff like this a lot. Pull jokes on each other, run our mouths… It's fun. I wonder how we ever stopped."
Pikachu nodded. His ears waded about behind his head as if they had minds of their own. "Pika-chu, Pika Pika Chu."
"Yeah, I guess you're right… We did some growing up. Once we started hanging out with rookies, we had to set an example…" Especially with someone as young and snarky as Max around. "But, still. Times like this… It doesn't hurt to be childish, now 'n then. I feel a lot better, cutting loose… I guess you can take the Master out of Pallet Town, but you can't take the Pallet Town out of the Master."
"Pi."
Ash smiled, turning to his companion. "You know, you were pretty devious, back in the day."
Pikachu blushed. Some of that history, he didn't like to think about. "Pika, Pikapi!'
"Yeah, I wasn't any better," Ash laughed.
Only one thing could be heard, then. Or rather, two things.
Two very loud rumbling stomachs.
"Well, that's one thing that definitely hasn't changed." Ash held his belly.
Pikachu sat up. "Pika! Pikachu?"
"Yeah, dinner sounds pretty good. It's getting dark, anyway."
The campfire roared and crackled over roasting twigs and branches, now the greatest source of light on Victory Road, pardoning the moon in the sky. The cradle of trees was illuminated by the flickering flames, giving Ash and Pikachu the chance to polish off their meals.
Refrigerated croquettes, kept cold by a cooling pack in Ash's backpack, had been heated up by the fire, and now, they were nearly gone. Ash munched into one with joy, savoring every bite.
Pikachu had cooked an apple over the fire, squealing occasionally after a bite from his sweet treat.
"Well, I think I'm full…" Ash pat his belly. "Better get some shut-eye before I get hungry again… It's…" He was interrupted by a loud, prolonged yawn. "Been a long day."
"Chaaaa," Pikachu yawned, craning his head back. "Pikachu."
The embers that remained were singed, and Ash sat under the foremost tree, back against the bark. "C'mere, bud." The teen opened his arms, waiting until Pikachu crawled into his lap. The mouse nuzzled his face into Ash's chin.
"Hey, that tickles," Ash chuckled. He embraced his companion. His starter pokemon. With that pleasant thought, he smiled to himself, leading his heavy lids fall. "We've got a big challenge waiting for us."
"Pi…"
Ash's lips pursed. He gently stroked Pikachu's fur "Both of us," he reiterated. "You'll be at my side… One way or another."
"Pika," Pikachu hummed. His eyes fell shut, and his paws clung to Ash's t-shirt.
"G'night."
"Pikachu."
One would think that a cozy coat of fur and cradling arms would be ideal for a peaceful night's rest. Ordinarily, that would be the case. Tonight, Pikachu squirmed, shifting about to find comfort. Ash's tight embrace made this nigh impossible, and the mouse stirred.
With a sleepy blink, he let out an irritated sigh. The sun showed no signs of poking over the horizon; it was still late at night. So much for resting up.
Resigning to a sleepless night, Pikachu wriggled his way out of his trainer's arms, flopping upside-down into the dirt, rolling as quietly as he could before sitting up. "Pi…" He stood, and began to walk. Maybe he'd tire himself out and doze off again. Hopefully.
The perimeter of the lake was a nice enough path, he decided, toeing the line. It was a mindless enough activity to allow Pikachu to space out, walking alongside the water with a blank stare.
In what'd probably been a couple of minutes, his ears perked. An otherwise open space was marked with craters and cracks running through. Split boulders littered the edges. The occasional faded white line lay amongst the debris, and Pikachu followed its course. In many spots, it had all but faded out. But, the general shape of a rectangle spanned the dirt. "Pika!"
It must have been a battlefield, at one point!
A field where daring trainers sharpened their skills before reaching the pokemon league. To prepare themselves for the test to come.
For the battles.
Pikachu breathed a heavy sigh. "Chuuu." The pokemon league was only days away. He hardly had much time left, and he still hadn't seen one battle, since that happened. He poked his paws together, anxious.
Would he even be in shape by now, if he did decide to try?
"Couldn't sleep, huh?"
"Pi?" Pikachu tensed, the fur on his back bristling. Only when he felt a familiar hand atop his head did he ease. Gentle fingers attentively massaged his scalp. The mouse cooed, turning his chin up. When the hand retreated, he looked up to Ash.
The trainer crouched down, sporting only his jeans and t-shirt, backpack slung over his shoulder. "You alright, buddy?"
"Piiika! Pikachu!" Pikachu plastered on a wide, playful smile, rubbing the back of his head. Of course, he was alright!
Ash squinted.
Pikachu's ears drooped. "Pikachu…" He bowed his head. He regretted lying.
"C'mere," Ash gestured a thumb towards a small pile of boulders. He walked to sit atop one, and watched Pikachu follow.
The smaller of the two friends sat atop a smaller rock, a couple of feet away from the larger, if he had to guess. Pikachu idly kicked his feet, staring at the dirt.
Ash's fingers drummed an incoherent rhythm on the rock he sat upon. "It's the battles coming, isn't it."
"Pikachu." The mouse's head hung. The usual gleam in his deep brown eyes had dried up, like a well in a drought.
"I know what you mean… I'm trying to stay positive. But, it bugs me a bit, too. Doesn't feel right… The idea of taking on the league without you fighting alongside me." Ash paused to swallow heavily. A closed hand brushed over his eye. "I miss battling together."
"The rush I get when I say, 'use Thunderbolt.' My pride when your speed confuses even my eyes." He clutched the edge of the rock, to the point of whitened knuckles. "Getting to see your face when we win a difficult match… Stuff like that… It's gonna sound crazy out-loud, but those are some of the things that make life worth living."
"...Pikachu?"
Quiet, squeaking sniffles caught Ash's attention. In that moment, his heart broke.
Salty tears dribbled down rosy cheeks, swept away by fuzzy paws as quickly as they came. Pikachu's body shuddered with each sob. "Piika… Pi….Pika-chu…" He whined, all of his might focused on quieting his tears. He'd turned from Ash, swiping with each sniffle.
Ash's lip trembled. "Pikachu…" His face felt hot with shame, and his fist trembled. He smashed his fist into the rock. "Me and my big stupid mouth!" He regretted the smack when the pain in his fist returned. That regret hardly compared to this. "What kind of idiot," he hissed.
"...What kind of idiot trainer does that!" Ash rubbed roughly at his cheeks, removing any stain of tears as they came. He wasn't the one who deserved to spill them. "To be that selfish… I'm sorry."
Pikachu turned to send Ash a glare.
Ash flinched. What a way to be disarmed. He breathed a heavy sigh, slowly reaching a hand out, to cup his companion's cheek. "Pikachu… I'm so sorry. I was being totally selfish; I'm supposed to be supporting you, not-"
Ash's hand was smacked away.
"Pika-chu!" Pikachu shrieked, standing atop the rock. "Pika-chu! Pika!" He tossed an arm out, little canines bared.
Ash recoiled. If there ever was a time to understand Pikachu, it was now.
~You aren't being selfish!~ Pikachu shouted in his head, over his usual syllables. He pulled back, crossing his paws. ~At least, not in the way you think you are. You're still doing it,~ Pikachu stopped to sniffle, his inner voice cracking with it. ~You're taking everything as a burden on you! By yourself; just like you did at the base, just like you did at the Power Plant!~
Ash's eyes trembled. Every word sunk in like a knife. "B-but, the Power Plant… We agreed that-"
~Everyone else agreed on it. I listened, because it did sound like the smart thing to do… Until I saw you in the hospital. Until I heard what happened to you. That someone pushed you so far that you really hurt them… That you got hurt. I should've been there, and I wasn't! We're supposed to share our challenges! That's what we've always done. Nothing's stopped us before.~
"...I just wanted to help you." Another wave of frustration was felt, and he stammered. "B-but, I get it… I'm sorry; I mean, I'm sorry for not considering your feelings… I've wanted to protect you, but… I guess that's only part of the picture."
Pikachu exhaled heavily. He toed the rock between their perches to stand closer, clutching Ash's t-shirt. ~I'm not hurt that you don't like the fix we're in… I'm more hurt you kept it from me for this long. I know you're trying to do the right thing,~ he prefaced, wiping the tears trailing his cheeks into Ash's shirt. ~But, sometimes, you just put too much on your own shoulders. Especially lately.~
Ash opened his mouth to speak. No words could come out. Only a crack in his voice came, and he simply nodded. He hesitantly reached to place a hand on Pikachu. He was permitted, and gently stroked his back.
~I'm just as angry with this situation as you are, Ash. I hate being babied. I hate missing out on the action. I hate how… Disgusted I feel.~ Pikachu buried his face in the familiar cotton cloth. ~With myself. We've never let anything keep us from fighting as a team.~ Pikachu pulled back, only to tug on the shirt. He forced Ash to make eye contact. ~I've been failing at that. You said you were sorry for ignoring my feelings… Well, I'm sorry for letting you down. For letting us down.~
"Apology not accepted." Ash cupped Pikachu's cheek, stroking the rosy pouch with his thumb. "You don't owe me one. Neither of us owes each other anything. Like you said, we're a team. We conquer our challenges together, and that's what we'll continue doing."
Pikachu showed the first hint of a smile since he'd been here. He lightly nuzzled into Ash's hand. ~Thanks for hearing me out. That's exactly what I want.~
"Then, that's what you'll get." Ash sniffled, scrunching his nose in disgust. "Ugh, we're both a slobbery, snotty mess," he laughed, hauling his backpack over to stick his hand in. He pulled out tissues, for himself and Pikachu. "Here, clean yourself up."
Both did so, and Ash smiled to himself. "Right now, you're not a Pikachu, you're a Pik-a-choo!" Ash hollered, mocking a sneeze.
Pikachu's squeaky laugh returned. That was so corny. But, that was Ash.
He was grateful he'd lightened the mood. "...So, down to business. What exactly is it that keeps you from battling?"
Pikachu sat, crossing his arms. ~It was the Rocket base… I think I said something about it at the time; they were trying to make me battle. Battle pokemon that were more afraid than me. More helpless. Who probably didn't have a trainer waiting in the next room, right then.~ He shuddered just thinking about it.
~Seeing them so terrified, being afraid of me… I think of it whenever I try to battle. I see those pokemon instead of my opponents. That's what hits me hardest.~
Ash frowned, nodding along. He crossed his legs. That did sound dreadful. "Ouch… I'm sorry, Pikachu. I had no idea." No wonder it'd been hard. "But, don't forget; the base was captured by Officer Jenny; those pokemon were definitely rescued! I'm sure they're recovering now, just like you are."
"Pika." Pikachu nodded. Not a very convincing answer. He knew that; well, he did need to remind himself of that, every now and then. But, it only chased the memories so far.
Ash hummed, holding a hand to his chin. "I've got it."
Pikachu looked up.
"If you can't battle pokemon out of fear you'll hurt 'em… Then you can battle me!"
"Pikapi?" Pikachu tilted his head. What was he on about?
"I mean it. You know I won't be afraid. Besides, if anyone can take your Thunderbolts like a champ, it's me!"
"Pii…" The mouse stood. "Pikachu, Pika…" Hurting Ash was the last thing he wanted to do; plus, would it really beat his anxiety? He wasn't sure about this.
"Hey, remember what you said; we committed to work together as a team, to conquer our problems. What better way to do that than to fight 'em off together?" Ash stood with a raised fist, flashing one of his trademark smiles. With that offer, he extended his hand.
There was a pause before Pikachu turned, offering his lightning bolt tail to Ash. "Pika, Pikapi!"
Ash laughed, giving Pikachu's tail a handshake… A tail-handshake.
"It's a good thing I brought my backpack with me… Let's get your vest."
With haste, the black Thunder Vest was retrieved. "Turn around and hold your arms up, bud."
Pikachu did so, and the protective vest was slid on. Pikachu turned back around, and Ash struggled with the buckles before clipping them shut. "...There! Now, let's get started!"
"Pika-chu!"
Ash and Pikachu stood on the long since worn battlefield, each on a side opposing the other. Ash crouched, guard raised, while Pikachu stood on all fours.
"Y'ready?" Ash smirked, leaning forward.
"Pikachu…" Pikachu nodded, though he didn't move from where he stood.
So, he was still uncomfortable. "In that case… I'll break the ice!" The trainer shifted towards his side, pulling both of his hands past his torso. Cupped together, they tense, summoning a flicker of light. That light quickly became a vibrant ball of energy. "Aura Sphere!" Ash cried, throwing his arms forward.
Pikachu's ears perked. He jumped forward, charging his tail with metal. "Chuaa… Pika!"
Pikachu swung his hips, smacking Aura Sphere back to where it came.
The orb's natural tendency to follow life energy brought it back hurling towards Ash.
Ash pulled a fist back. "Not happening," he shouted, backhanding the Aura Sphere.
The blast was knocked off to the side, crashing into one of the valley's rocky walls, followed by a bright explosion.
"See? I'm fine," Ash boasted, turning a thumb towards himself. "Now, bring it on, Pikachu!"
"Pika… Chu!" Pikachu sprinted towards Ash, trailed by glimmering silver.
"A Quick Attack, huh... Alright, bring it." Ash crossed his arms over his chest.
Just as he jumped, Pikachu hesitated. A great deal of his momentum was lost as he kicked into Ash's arms, sending the trainer skidding back. The mouse sprung off his arms, launching himself into the air.
"Guess you need more encouragement…" Ash pulled a hand back, charging another blast. "Then, have this! Aura Sphere!" Ash chucked the fighting type move.
The blast was quickly approaching Pikachu. Instinctively, he cried, firing a Thunderbolt in return. The electric attack sliced through Aura Sphere with ease, closing in on Ash.
Pikachu froze, color draining from his face. His chest tightened when smoke shrouded the field.
"Pikapi!"
A teal glow shone through the smoke, before fading with it. Ash stood with a hand outstretched, sporting a grin, despite his heavy breathing. "Looks like I can use Protect!" With another huff, he stood. That was tiring. "Told ya I'd be fine."
Pikachu exhaled, relieved. "Pikachu…" The worst of his fears hadn't come to pass. "Pika-Pika," he grunted, standing on his hind legs. Maybe he was ready for more, now!
"I'm coming at you, Pikachu!" Ash sprinted forward, rearing a fist. "Here comes a Mach Punch!"
"Pika!" Pikachu leapt towards Ash.
With his opponent at arm's length, Ash swung.
Pikachu instead landed atop Ash's arm. Perching himself, he smirked at his trainer. "Pikachu!"
"Oh, you think you've outsmarted me, huh? Well, get ready for my Seismic Toss!" He snagged Pikachu with both hands, spinning before chucking him into the sky.
"Come on, buddy. Lemme see that Iron Tail!"
"Chu!" Pikachu righted himself, exhaling. This was Ash… He was tough. He'd asked to fight. Pikachu could do this! "Chuaaa…!" He fell into his descent, his tail glimmering silver.
"That's more like it!" Ash drew both arms back, cupping an Aura Sphere. Pikachu was drawing ever closer, and he lurched forward, throwing both hands outward, met at the palm.
"Aura Sphere!"
"Pika!"
Solid metal crashed into bubbling life energy, first meeting with a crash, then a loud boom.
Dust scattered, and both combatants were blown back by the explosion.
Ash was violently thrown back, landing on his rear.
Pikachu skidded back on his hind legs. "Piiii… Pika!" He smirked, standing upright. He really did miss this rush. The rush of a good battle. Even as his heart pounded, he took solace in his Thunder Vest, constantly reassuring him with its warm embrace. He could bear this.
"Great stuff," Ash praised, picking himself up. "You're just as tough as ever… So, I'm coming at ya again!" He ran at his starter pokemon, throwing his foot at him. "Low Kick!"
"Chu!" Pikachu sprung over Ash's foot, tucking into a forward roll. "Piii!"
Ash yelped, stumbling back to barely avoid an Iron Tail. He struggled to catch his balance with each successive step, before finally standing still. His shoulders slumped, and he was panting.
"Pikachu…" Pikachu landed, once more. He couldn't say that he felt completely at ease, but he was far closer to it than he would've dreamed. But, it was exactly what he'd hoped for.
Ash, meanwhile, was struggling to catch his breath. His body felt weary. "I wanna say I just need more sleep… But I'm gonna guess that you've tired me out." The trainer laughed, leaning forward, again. "So, let's make this a big finish!"
With that, Ash sprinted towards Pikachu. "Pikachu, use Volt Tackle!"
"Pika!?" Pikachu flinched. He wanted him to use that!?
"Chu…" He resigned, sprinting towards Ash. He obviously wouldn't use his full power, but he wouldn't let Ash down, either! "Pika-pika-pika-pika-pikaaa…!"
Electricity surrounded Pikachu's body, lighting the dark landscape with a glimmer of gold.
Ash charged him with a shoulder tackle, holding nothing back. "Show me what you've got!"
"Pika!"
Bolts and sparks flew, tearing at the ground.
Ash was sent flying, skidding across the dirt. With a grunt, he collapsed.
"Pika…" Pikachu blanched. "Pikapi!" Panicked, he rushed to his trainer's side, shaking his shoulder. "Pikapi, Pikachu!"
"Ergh… Wuzzat…?" Ash was laid out, covered in static electricity, his hair frizzed from the impact. A few spots of ashes and scratches marked his body, but nothing more.
"Pikapi!"
"Ugh… Holy crap," Ash whispered, sitting up. He shook his head, regaining his bearings. His little yellow companion was right beside him, and he smiled. He pat Pikachu's head with a wink. "I'd say that's a job well done!"
"Pika…" Pikachu's round eyes shone. "Pikapi!" He squeaked, leaping into Ash's arms.
Ash laughed, embracing his best friend. Warm arms enjoyed the comfort of soft fur, and vice versa. The two sat in comfortable silence.
"So, how do ya feel about battling?"
"Chu…" Pikachu hummed, pulling back to look up at Ash. "Pikachu…" He did feel a bit better; that had been fun! But, regular battles… Well, he'd have to see. "Pika."
Ash smiled. "Well, you've got a whole league ahead to think it over. If we plan on winning, we'll make it to every round! You don't have to decide this second."
"Pikachu!" That sounded like a plan to him!
"But, I have a pretty good feeling about things… The timing feels right."
"Pikachu!"
"Now, whaddya say we get some sleep? We're gonna need it for tomorrow."
"Chu!"
The two would drag themselves back to the campsite, where they would both rest easy, tired and content.
Daylight went as quickly as it came, the next day. A long day of traversing Victory Road ate up hours for Ash and Pikachu, and the sun was beginning to set. Bright hues of pink and orange lined the skies.
The faintest of which could finally be seen by the duo at the end of a long tunnel, which had been previously lit by Pikachu's crackling cheeks. And, not a moment too soon.
Ash blinked, slowly adjusting to the bright skies as he neared the exit. "Looks like we made it!" His legs felt like jello, and his eyes were heavy, but still, he laughed, stepping out of the eternal shadow of the caverns. With that step forward, they had left Victory Road.
"Pika-chu!" Pikachu chirped, pointing forward.
To their destination.
"The Indigo Plateau… We're here. We beat Victory Road." Ash's gaze became stern. He reached for his cap, slowly turning the brim to the back of his head. "And next, we'll beat the Indigo League."
"Pi-Pikachu!"
A gentle breeze swept past Ash and Pikachu, ruffling the former's messy black hair, and the former's lightning bolt tail. Leaves from nearby trees swept past Ash's feet.
"This is our moment, Pikachu. Our time to shine."
"Pikachu."
"Aaaash! Pikachuuu!" Dawn's voice hollered, breaking the two out of their trance. She was waving from further down the path, with Brock and Misty beside her.
Ash laughed, sprinting towards his friends, jelly legs be damned. "Hey, guys!" When he neared them, he stopped, if only to catch his breath. "Told you I'd make it," said the hunched, heavily breathing teen.
"What're you two looking so serious for? This isn't a cartoon," Misty teased.
"We were being dramatic," Ash huffed, while Pikachu initially blushed. He quickly joined his trainer in looking tough. "This league's a really big deal!'
"Pika!"
"Well, then, I'm certainly glad that someone holds the Pokemon League in such high regard!"
"Huh!? Where'd that voice come from?" Ash flinched, looking about, hand held above his eyes to block the sunset… While wearing his cap backwards, naturally.
"You're getting colder!"
"Uh… Oh!" Ash finally looked the only direction he hadn't yet; down. " !?"
A tiny, stout old man with a backwards cap, long wild grey hair reaching past his back, and a bushy mustache and beard crowding his face stood beside Misty. Through his beard, he smiled.
