"That is where we are now. Everyone intends to leave the following day." Professor Oak completed his work. He chose to be the one to speak, knowing that many of the others would find it difficult to do so given the circumstances.
James sat in complete stillness, intently listening to the account of what had occurred during the previous few days. Everything had been told to him, from the moment Ash was shot to the moment he was beaten unconscious.
When Oak finished speaking, James let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding.
"Wow… I'm at a loss for words in response to all of this. Even while I was in the organization, I knew Team Rocket was trash, but I can't believe they'd go that far..." James expressed his skepticism.
Even though he was no longer a member of the organization, James couldn't help but feel guilty for ever being a part of such a squad.
"You and I both..." Oak sighed loudly enough for everyone to hear.
The room became utterly silent at this point. And, despite the awkward stillness, no one dared to speak. During the stillness, James examined each person in the room.
His gaze initially went to where Paul, Brock, and the Professor were sitting. He recalled each of them individually from all of the times they'd met when he was still a member of Team Rocket, and seeing their downcast expressions felt terrible even to him. This was not like them, as far as he could tell.
He then moved his focus to Misty, May, Dawn, and Serena, who were sitting on a big four-person couch. Misty had always appeared to be hot-headed and mentally powerful, but now she, too, was crying gently. Hearing the story again was clearly painful for everyone. Even James was overwhelmed by the amount of information that had been thrown at him. He was sick to his stomach because this was actually happening.
Finally, he turned to face Ash, who was sitting on an old armchair towards the corner of the room with Pikachu in his lap. The first thing James saw was the rodent's almost forlorn expression. The mouse pokemon kept looking up at his trainer, hoping that everything would return to normal and his best friend would return to normal.
When he looked up at Ash, he realized why Pikachu appeared so upset and concerned. Ash bowed his head, his hat casting a shadow across his face.
He was still, almost statue-like in his stillness. No one would have realized he was alive if it hadn't been for the shallow rise and fall of his chest.
James had 'knew' Ash for longer than any of the other guests in the room. He was well aware of Ash's demeanor. This man was constantly determined and enthusiastic, always eager to assist someone in need. Seeing him so...broken drove James to want to help even more. It was unlike him, James realized, and even he understood that Ash needed to be restored to normalcy if they were to succeed on this voyage.
Having had enough of the silence, James rose from his sat position, attracting everyone's attention. However, his gaze was fixed on one individual while he spoke.
"I want you to listen to me, Ash." When Ash was addressed, James expected him to glance up, but the raven-haired man kept his head down and remained immobile.
James sighed as he approached the seated trainer, placing his hands on his shoulders and bent down to look him in the eyes.
Ash had no option but to glance up now that they were face to face, displaying his bloodshot and teary eyes. Everyone in attendance's hearts shattered a little more when they saw the normally powerful Ash in such a state.
Despite his amazement, James was able to look the man in the eyes.
"We will get your mother back, I vow on everything I love. I'll do everything I can to help you get to her while also taking down Team Rocket. This goal is just too crucial for us to fail! All we need now is a leader... So come out of this funk and show me the powerful, resolute individual who sent me and Meowth blasting off so many times."
Ash's gaze was fixed on James. Not three days before, this man was working with the woman who had attempted to murder him. However, the gleam in his eyes and the smile on his face convinced Ash that James was fully sincere. Ash looked around the room and began to contemplate to himself after this knowledge.
"He is correct! Sitting here and moping will not bring my mum back! I must take action!" Ash's gaze swept over all of his pals' freshly beaming faces as a confident grin spread across his face. "There is no way we can fail with everyone's cooperation!"
After a few moments of deliberation, Ash rose and redirected his eyes to James, who had since released his grip and retreated away a few paces.
"Thank you so much, James... Thank you very much." Ash finished as James enthusiastically nodded. "Thank you to everyone else as well. I am confident that if we work together, we will succeed!"
Ash's confidence rapidly returned to normal as he was able to consider all of the reasons why they would succeed on this assignment.
'You've got the spirit, Ash! You already know that we're all rooting for you!' Brock spoke passionately.
Brock's remarks made Ash's smile even wider. He then noticed the pleased, confident expressions on the faces of all of his friends, including James and Meowth.
He then returned his focus to James. Ash put out his hand in greeting, hoping for a handshake.
"Here's to a new friendship." Ash exclaimed happily.
Before looking up and smiling, James examined the man's hand. He then nodded and extended his hand to shake Ash's. "Here's to a new friendship."
Both James and Meowth were overjoyed that Ash and company had welcomed them into their ranks. Neither of them had ever had many friends in the past. The only people they could always rely on were each other. But now they had numerous friends; people for whom they would go to any length for and who would do the same for them.
"I hate to interrupt this moment, but we should take it easy and rest. Especially because we're leaving tomorrow." Everyone was reminded by Paul.
It had been a long and exhausting day, and although it was still early, it seemed like the more rest the better at this point.
"Wait! We've left something out! Something we had planned to do earlier. Look at James, is there anything...wrong... with his face?" Meowth yelled. He couldn't believe they'd overlooked such a crucial task.
When James heard this, he became terrified. "What! What's the matter with my face now?!"
Everyone turned to stare at James. It appeared to be alright at first, but Oak soon realized something was wrong. The others quickly realized what had happened.
"Oh, how could we have forgotten to do something so important?" Oak sighed and said nothing to anyone in particular.
"Would you kindly tell me what's wrong with me?" James yelled, evidently still terrified.
"I realize what you mean now. Your professor is correct. We should have done this while he was still unconscious." Brock then turned to speak to James. "James, your nose is still out of position; we'll have to correct it right away."
As he spoke, Professor Oak chuckled in embarrassment. "Sorry about that, hehe. It would have been much less painful if you had been asleep when we did it, but I guess we...forgot."
James was enraged as he realized what was wrong, knowing the suffering that would inevitably result from repairing a fractured nose.
"Are you kidding me? How could you have forgotten something so important?" James yelled. He was aiming daggers at Brock and Oak, who were both innocently and apologetically smiling.
Eventually, the rage left James' body, to be replaced entirely by defeat. This needed to be done. Before replying, he sighed "What do you think? It's all right. Let's just get this out of the way."
"Great. You should probably take a seat for this. I'd tell you it won't hurt at all, but I'd be lying." Brock replied as he put on rubber gloves to repair the nose.
"I believe your bedside manner may use some improvement..." Dejectedly, James added.
James took a seat on a couch that had been cleaned out by Paul, Brock, and the Professor, leaving James as the sole occupant. Brock took his place alongside James and prepared to begin.
"OK, James, are you ready?" Brock inquired.
"As I'll ever be..." James groaned again.
"All right, then...here...we...go!" As soon as he said the word 'go,' Brock yanked and yanked the nose back into place as best he could.
James just had one response.
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
"Man, that hurt much worse than the beating..." While staring in the mirror, James sighed and touched his nose, which now wore a nose guard.
"C'mon, James, toughen up." With a chuckle, Meowth said.
"It's simple for you to say! You aren't the one who had his bones altered!" James screamed angrily.
"Let's just get some shut-eye. We've got a long way to go." Meowth said, and James nodded in agreement as they settled into their cots in their room with Brock and Misty.
It had been a few hours since the surgery, and everyone had long since settled into their allotted sleeping spot for the night. Aside from Tracey and Oak's sleeping quarters, the lab contained two spare bedrooms so the group members wouldn't have to be fully cramped up next to each other.
Fortunately for the group, Oak had a couple of cots and hospital beds for the pokemon in case they got hurt. It wasn't the most comfortable bed, but it was better than sleeping on the floor.
While everyone else had a cot or a couch to sleep on, Ash chose to sleep on the floor, giving up his couch for May.
It had been roughly 15 minutes after the lights had been turned off in the previous room. May and Dawn were on the couches, and Serena and Paul were on the two cots.
Since then, Ash had been lying in the dark, staring at the ceiling. He only took his gaze away from the ceiling to glance at Pikachu, who was resting soundly beside his head. Pikachu had chosen to sleep with Ash rather than on a couch with someone else. After everything that had happened today, Pikachu desired to be by his trainer's side at all costs.
Ash assumed that because there was no noise around him, everyone was sleeping. Sighing, he tried to close his eyes and sleep on his own, but his thoughts had other ideas.
The day replayed in his brain every time he closed his eyes. He saw his house burn down again and over again. He once again witnessed Mimey take his last breath in his arms. His mother gets taken. He's gone insane...
Ash muttered quietly in despair, unable to find peace even after closing his eyes. He realized at that time that trying to sleep was futile.
Ash stood silently from his makeshift bed on the floor, taking care not to disturb up Pikachu or anyone else. His thoughts was still racing, and he was extremely stressed. He was about to do something that he hoped would make him feel better.
Ash began to stroll to the lab's doors, immediately thinking of something that could assist.
"Perhaps if I just stare at the stars for a long... That always makes me feel better." Ash had a hopeful thought. Even after the incident with May, he found solace in stargazing.
The invigorating wind of the outdoors touched Ash's restless body as he left the lab, quickly calming him down, if only slightly. Ash made his way to a huge expanse of grass just to the right of the lab, never looking up at the sky. He found a suitable location and laid out on the grass, getting as comfortable as he could.
Ash took deep breaths of the crisp, fresh night air that surrounding him while keeping his eyes closed so as not to mar the unveiling of the always gorgeous night sky.
Ash opened his eyes after a few moments, hoping to be calmed by the beauty of the heavens overhead. When he finally saw the sky, his breathing became labored. Seeing what he did had the exact opposite effect that was intended.
There were no visible stars.
It had been a cloudy night.
The sky was so cloudy that all of the stars, even the moon, were obscured. As his aspirations of calming down were dashed, Ash moaned in defeat.
He stood up and took in his surroundings. It was almost pitch black. The world was so...dark without the stars and moon shining brightly.
It seemed appropriate. Being in such a gloomy state, with what appears to be a hopeless quest ahead of him...
He had been confident while speaking with James, but he couldn't help but feel uncertain now. Worrying ideas would always creep up on folks at night.
"Can we really pull this off?" "I don't want anyone to be injured..." Ash was terrified by his own ideas.
"What if, especially after what I did today, I hurt someone I care about?" "What if..."
"No." Ash spoke up. He was aware that the stress was affecting his head, and that the disappointment at not seeing the stars had pushed him over the edge. He had to keep positive or else there was no way he was going to succeed.
He stood to his feet, his expression determined, intending to return to the lab to escape the lightless sky.
To get away from the darkness.
Something he desperately wanted to do.
As he turned around to return to the lab, he was taken aback when he noticed Dawn standing in front of him. He recognized her because his eyes had finally accustomed to the darkness surrounding him.
Dawn was standing around 15 feet away from Ash. Her hands were tightly clutched together on her chest. Ash realized her expression was somewhat...frightened.
"Dawn? "What exactly are you doing out here?" Ash inquired. He'd assumed everyone was sleeping.
Dawn took a couple steps closer before saying, "Well, uh...
When I watched you exit the lab, I was still awake. I… I followed you because I was concerned about you. "Please accept my apologies."
"Don't apologize. I value your concern. It means a lot to me that you care about me." Ash replied politely as he approached the woman, only a few feet apart.
Dawn blushed slightly in response to Ash's sweet remarks, but her sad, terrified expression remained. Ash was not overlooked by this.
"Dawn, what's the matter?" Ash inquired, apprehensive.
Dawn raised her head from its slightly depressed position and smiled knowingly. "There's nothing wrong! "Don't worry, I'm OK!"
Ash maintained his stony demeanor, peering right through Dawn's mask. "What's the matter, Dawn?"
Dawn exhaled a sigh. She should've realized she wouldn't be able to keep anything from Ash. He not only knew her too well to be unsure whether she was telling the truth or not, but she was also a poor liar.
"It's just...
I'm afraid, Ash. Everything is shifting, and terrible things are occurring. I'm at a loss on what to do. "I'm worried about what's going to happen." Dawn murmured quietly, her eyes welling up with tears.
When Ash saw Dawn's worry, he closed the gap between them and hugged her tightly, which Dawn happily returned. His embrace could never fail to make her feel better.
Ash remained silent for a few moments, allowing Dawn to relax in his arms before attempting to calm her worries verbally.
"I know Dawn, I'm terrified as well. I'm terrified out of my mind. There is no guarantee that everything will end out okay, and that is what terrifies me the most. It's normal to be scared. We wouldn't be human if we weren't terrified right now. What we need to do is overcome our worries and believe that everything will be fine. As long as we do that, I am confident that we will be alright. And I pledge not to let anything bad happen to you. Whatever the case may be." Ash muttered gently, still clutching Dawn.
Dawn seemed to relax a little more into the hug, which Ash took as a good sign.
Dawn had been greatly comforted by Ash's words and embrace, but something remained in her mind. She didn't want to say it, but she knew she had to be completely honest with him.
"I-I was afraid of you today..." Dawn spoke almost silently, just loud enough for Ash to hear.
In response to Dawn's statements. Ash quickly let go of the hug and tried to hide the sad expression on his face, but the bluenette noticed it and it broke her heart, making her regret bringing this up.
Ash had expected her, and everyone else, to be terrified of him after what he'd done to James. After all, he was terrified of himself at the time.
But, regardless of what he expected, hearing those words hurt him terribly. Hearing that someone he cared about frightened him, even if just for a brief time, killed him within.
Ash moaned regretfully and glanced down at the ground. "I-I understand. After what I did, I expected you to be terrified of me. I'm not sure what occurred, but I simply snapped. "I had lost control."
Dawn still felt bad about bringing it up, especially after hearing Ash's pain in her voice, but she'd already done it, so she needed to get everything out. She had reached the point of no return.
"We were all terrified. May, Serena, Misty... but Ash, don't worry, it's all over now and-" When Ash looked up at her and spoke, Dawn was cut short.
"I have something else to say to you, Dawn." Although Ash's tone was not forceful or demanding, Dawn sensed the gravity in his quiet voice. He wouldn't have cut her off if it hadn't been necessary.
"I am deeply regretful and repentant for what I did." And, more significantly, I apologize for frightening you and the others. I don't want you or any of my other buddies to be terrified of me. But-"
Ash sighed as he met Dawn's teary gaze.
"...But I can't guarantee that it won't happen again."
Dawn was taken aback by Ash's statements. Is that what he said at the end of his apology? Dawn was more perplexed than angry.
"Ash, how...
How can you put it like that? I don't-'
Ash raised his hand. "You have to understand, Dawn." My mother is in the clutches of some of the world's most horrible people. She's in danger, and now you all are. I will go to any length, and I mean any length, to ensure that no one is harmed and that everyone remains secure. And if that means that anything like what happened today needs to happen, so be it. Because I will not allow anything to happen to you or anyone I care about. That is a guarantee."
Tears welled up in Ash's eyes by the time he finished, his demeanor solemn, while his voice was full of emotion and conviction.
Dawn's mouth dropped open slightly. Everything Ash had just stated was immediately rushing through her mind. As much as she despised admitting it, she could see why Ash claimed it could happen again. His mother was in danger, and he was willing to go to any length to save her.
What Ash said about safeguarding her and the others, however, was what really made her realize. He'd always been the type of person who placed others ahead of himself, and this scenario was no exception. If saving her meant killing someone, he'd do it no matter how he or anybody else felt about it afterwards.
Dawn gazed into Ash's eyes and saw the same blazing resolve and compassion she had always seen, but there was something more there, something that made Dawn gasp inaudibly.
Dawn could see what Ash was feeling in his eyes. He despised it. He despised the fact that he had to be willing to kill in order to protect those he cared about. He despised what he had done and the prospect of having to do something similar in the future.
Despite his dislike for these activities, he was willing to perform them. It's for her. For the rest of us. Ash was willing to sacrifice his own soul to ensure Dawn and the others' safety. Even though Dawn had known Ash for a long time, this understanding astounded her and made her admire him even more than she did before, which was saying a lot.
For a few moments, their gazes remained locked intensely. Ash now had a few tears streaming down his cheeks, but his solemn demeanor remained. Dawn was shedding a few tears at this time.
"How could I possibly be terrified of him? I adore him more than anything else in the planet. I know he'd never hurt me... He would go to any length for me." Dawn reflected as a little smile emerged through her tears.
Dawn grabbed Ash in another hug without hesitation, but this one was filled with a lot more pleasant energy. She desperately wanted to kiss him at that moment, but she knew it was neither the time nor the place. Instead, she chose to cry and smile against Ash's wide chest as her love for the man she was currently holding deepened.
Ash instantly returned the hug. He could always read Dawn and tell what she was thinking, and it made him feel better. She realized she never had to be afraid of him. That he will always be there for her, no matter what.
As he held her in his arms, Ash stroked her beautiful blue hair.
"Promise me you'll never be scared of me. I want you to know that no matter what happens, I will always be there to defend you." Ash spoke quietly.
Dawn nodded vigorously against his chest without hesitation.
The answer to dawn was subdued but yet audible. "I swear. I have faith in you. I lo-"
She was on the verge of confessing right then and there. Dawn felt safe and secure in Ash's embrace. But, as much as she wanted to tell him how she felt, she realized that doing so would only complicate matters for him, something he didn't need just now; with everything else going on around him, he didn't need this added to his plate.
Fortunately for her, Ash had either not heard her almost declare she loved him or had chosen to ignore it. She was hoping it was the former. In any case, she was just glad to be beside Ash right now.
The two were finally free after what seemed like an age. Both faces were suddenly free of tears and smiling broadly.
"Come on, let's go back." We must make every effort to sleep. We've got a long road ahead of us." Ash spoke softly.
"You're correct. But as long as I'm with you, I'm not afraid. I'm confident you'll be there for me. And I will always be there for you." Dawn's charming response caused Ash to blush slightly and smile even wider.
Ash extended his hand to the blunette, who gladly accepted it. They then began the short trek back to the lab.
Ash came to a halt just outside the door as the two approached it.
Dawn was still clutching his hand when she returned her gaze to Ash, wondering why he'd come to a halt.
"Go ahead, Dawn; I'll be right behind you." Ash stated politely.
Dawn hesitated at first to let go of his hand, but eventually nodded and entered the lab.
Ash sighed as he grabbed the door handle with his left hand once Dawn was inside. Instead of opening the door and following Dawn inside, he turned his head and glanced up at the sky.
To Ash's joy, the clouds had parted, showing a lone star in an otherwise pitch-black sky.
As he saw it, a toothless smile spread across his face.
"All I need is just one spark of optimism."
As he entered the lab, Ash hoped to get some rest.
"That single ray of light in the darkness."
Morning arrived faster than anybody had anticipated. Despite their faith and trust in one another, the possibility of actually carrying out their plans terrified everyone.
No one was surprised when Ash became the first to awaken. However, instead of training this morning, he was thinking about something else.
He took care of his morning routine as quietly as carefully as he could in a lab, and exited through the back doors, Pikachu following him as excitedly as he could.
Ash was on his way to the property. He'd forgotten to inform all of the pokemon what had transpired during the craziness of the previous day. Ash was certain that they had heard the previous day's blast and were quite interested as to what had caused it and what was going on.
Ash despised having to recount the events again, but he knew it was vital. After all, his pokemon were as much a part of his family as his mother was. They have a right to be informed. Plus, Ash was well aware that he would require the assistance of all of his pokemon on this adventure.
As he approached the property, a little smile appeared on his face. All of his pokemon, including Snorlax, were awake and ready to train. Even though it was just 6:30 a.m., everyone was up and ready to go.
Because Lucario was the first to notice Ash's arrival, he told the others that their trainer had arrived. All of his pokemon rushed toward him, letting out happy shouts.
Fortunately for Ash, his pokemon had anticipated his arrival today, so they saved him from another stampede. However, that didn't stop his more affectionate pokemon from approaching him.
Bayleef was sprinting towards her trainer with a smile on her face. She came to a halt, though, when she noticed his distressed expression. Something was clearly wrong, so Bayleef decided to take it slowly.
Ash, like the other pokemon, saw Bayleef's unusual demeanor and wondered what was happening. When the rest of the pokemon saw Ash's look, their questions were addressed.
They had all heard the explosion the day before but were compelled to dismiss it as nothing because they had no means of knowing what it was. However, some of Ash's pokemon were beginning to suspect that something had happened to their trainer and his pals.
"Hey guys!" Ash exclaimed, taking a long, drawn-out breath. "How are you all doing?"
Ash tried to convey joy and happiness, but when no one responded, he realized he'd failed. He noticed the frightened emotions on all of his Pokémon's faces and realized it was pointless to try to hide anything.
"You people know me too well," he groaned. "I'm sure you're all curious as to what's wrong, huh?"
With a few head nods, Ash added, "It's a lengthy story, but it's one you should know."
Ash sat down and crossed his legs, trying to feel as comfortable as he could before beginning to recount the agonizing narrative.
He didn't leave anything out, recalling every detail from the previous day. It was simple since the events of that day were seared into his memory.
The startled and sad expressions on his pokemon companions' faces were nearly too much for Ash to bear, but he needed to stay strong for his friends, both pokemon and humans.
"And that's that," he lamented as he finished his story. We'll be going in a matter of hours. I'm telling you this not just because you're my family and have a right to know, but also because I'm going to need all of your help. I need a team to assist me in regaining custody of my mother and protecting my friends from any threat we may face."
Ash was about to continue when his pokemon all took a step closer to him, each looking confident. There were no exceptions to his pokemon's desire to assist.
Ash could only smile kindly. He should've anticipated that all of his pokemon would want to accompany him and assist with the problem. The fact that they cared warmed his heart. He truly possessed the world's best Pokemon.
"I know you all want to assist, and I couldn't be more grateful. I'll take a squad of six, but I need all of you to be available anytime I need you. If this is going to be as difficult as I anticipate, I'm going to need all of your assistance. "Do you agree with me?" Ash finished by raising his fist in the air and smiling confidently.
Despite the fact that it was still early and Ash would most likely be chastised for waking up half of Pallet Town, Ash enjoyed how loud and impassioned his Pokémon's shouts were. It was clear how close they were to their trainer.
"Many thanks to everyone. But you must all understand that this would be unlike anything we have ever encountered. The threat is extremely real, and lives are at stake. We must exercise utmost caution. As I previously stated, Team Rocket anticipates my arrival and is undoubtedly going to assassinate me, but we have no alternative but to pursue my mother. And, while it won't be easy, I know that with everyone's aid, we'll be fine!" Ash expressed his enthusiasm.
Even though everyone was already pumped, Ash thought a short speech would boost their spirits even further. Something that would be extremely useful as the expedition progressed.
When Ash heard a loud, familiar voice, he was contently staring at his pokemon, considering which to take with him.
ASH KETCHUM!" YOU AWAKENED EVERYONE, YOU IDIOT! "YOU'RE GOING TO GET IT!" Ash swallowed in terror as he turned to see who he was expecting to see.
May.
May was surrounded by the others, all of whom appeared fatigued.
May stormed out in front of the group, right into Ash's face. All the raven-haired trainer could do was sweat and wait for his punishment.
Ash threw his palms up in defense, hoping to calm May down. "I apologize! I was simply getting my pokemon ready for the expedition. Please accept my apologies!"
Much to Ash's surprise and happiness, May's fury faded and was replaced by a charming, understanding grin.
Ash responded with a smile, relieved to have defused the situation.
"I see you still have that thing..." Ash sounded drowsy as he said.
"You're such an idiot!" scoffed May.
"But you're our dunce." May finished by approaching Ash and removing his hat before ruffling his hair while smiling innocently. Ash was perplexed once more.
"How do girls switch emotions so quickly?" And where exactly does she keep that thing? I mean, it's massive!" Ash reflected to himself. He was inclined to inquire, but decided against it.
Regaining his calm, Ash stood and watched May return to the throng clustered by the door.
"Um...don't you think that was a little excessive?" Misty inquired, feeling sorry for the man she loved. Even though he had woken everyone up, she understood it wasn't on intention.
Misty, Dawn, and Max were irritated with May for what she'd done, especially given what Ash was going through. Having said that, they weren't going to hold it against her, and Ash appeared to be fine.
"No, Ash is quite thick-headed. He'll be just fine." May said as she walked through the doors and back into the lab.
Everyone but Ash laughed at May's statements. Ash was plainly dense not only physically, but also psychologically. Before addressing the rest of his friends, Ash chuckled and shook his head.
"You all need to get some more sleep before we depart." Ash told his friends. Everyone cheerfully obeyed his suggestion and returned to the lab.
May, on the other hand, remained behind and asked Ash, "How about you?" "Don't you think you should get some more rest?"
"Nah, I'm alright," Ash said, shaking his head with a smile on his face. I got a good night's sleep last night. You may proceed."
May was initially apprehensive, but finally shrugged and went inside, knowing she couldn't change Ash's mind.
Once Ash was out of sight, she let out a deep yawn. He was, in fact, exhausted. He'd gotten scarcely a wink of sleep the night before.
He couldn't do it.
He had too much on his mind.
Ash deliberated long and hard on who he would bring with him to begin with. Pikachu was his apparent first choice, but there were still five spaces available.
Despite the fact that some of his pokemon were significantly stronger than others, Ash had faith in all of them to perform what he needed them to do in any situation. Each of his pokemon had unique abilities that would undoubtedly aid him on his trip.
Ash made a decision after much deliberation. After all, it's not like he couldn't switch out pokemon if he wanted to; in fact, he planned on doing so regardless of how long this voyage would take.
He chose to bring two of his most powerful hitters, Garchomp and Charizard, as well as some speed in Lucario and Sceptile. One place remained unfilled.
He was unconsciously bringing the pokemon he thought was his strongest in the most categories for his first appearance. After all, he had no idea how difficult this would be, and as they say, it's better to be overprepared than underprepared.
He went over all of his pokemon again, trying to figure out who could aid him the most. His gaze was drawn to his flying-type pokemon. Swellow, Noctowel, Staraptor, Unfezant, and others were all present.
That's when Ash understood who he wanted to bring along with him, who would round out this all-star team. He already knew who he was going to take as his final pokemon. But he'd have to make a quick detour to Route 1...
Route 1
Ash and Pikachu had just been trekking for around 10 minutes when they came to a familiar clearing. He looked around, hoping to see an old buddy.
"Have you seen her, buddy?" Ash inquired of the yellow rodent moving down by his feet.
Pikachu took a few more seconds to look at the tree line before turning to face Ash and shaking his head.
Ash resumed his search, a somewhat troubled frown on his face.
He didn't like to admit it, but Ash was scared to see this pokemon again. He'd promised to return for her eventually, but that was eight years ago.
That's not to say Ash didn't try to get her back; it just felt that whenever he went back for her, she wasn't there. He seemed to miss her all the time.
Ash groaned, sincerely expecting for his old pokemon to appear.
Ash took a deep breath before shrieking, "PIDGEOT!" as loudly as he could, his hands cupped around his mouth.
Ash had cried her name so long and loudly that he was gasping for air by the time he was done.
He silently prayed to Arceus for Pidgeot to appear. That she was present.
That she was still open to seeing him.
Ash and Pikachu waited for Pidgeot for 5 minutes with no luck. Ash was becoming increasingly depressed as time passed.
Pikachu noticed this and leaped in front of the now-seated Ash, flashing a huge, comforting smile. When Pikachu's cheeky smile had no effect on his trainer, he realized how distraught Ash was.
Ash reasoned that Pidgeot probably didn't want to see him anymore. He didn't blame her. He had abandoned her for eight years...
Ash rose to his feet, dropped his head, and began walking back to Pallet, taking one last glance at the forest line. Pikachu tried to stop Ash by grabbing his pant leg, but he refused. He'd officially surrendered.
The realization that one of his old pals no longer wanted to see him hit him hard, and he let a few rouge tears flow from his eyes.
Pikachu and Ash were almost to the end of Route 1 when they were stopped.
"Pidgeot!" A piercing cry rang out from above. The owner of this voice then landed directly in front of Ash and Pikachu, stopping them in their tracks.
When Ash and Pikachu saw the enormous, powerful-looking bird pokemon, their eyes widened. Even though Pikachu tried to remain optimistic, he was disappointed that Pidgeot hadn't arrived, thus seeing her here surprised both him and Ash.
"Pidgeot…" Ash muttered. They were caught in an intense stare-down until Ash broke out in a wide smile.
"Pidgeot!" Ash yelled as he rushed, hugging the bird with all his might.
"I'm terribly sorry, Pidgeot! I'm sorry we haven't seen each other in a long time! I attempted to locate you a few years back, but you were nowhere to be found! I'm terribly sorry, Pidgeot; will you ever forgive me?" When Ash finished, he looked Pidgeot in the eyes, attempting to get a read on the bird.
He smiled when he saw what he saw. Pidgeot was beaming brightly, and it was seen in her eyes. Ash then wrapped another bone-crushing embrace around the pokemon.
Ash felt he had to get down to work now that the two friends had been reunited. He took a step back from Pidgeot and became solemn.
"Pidgeot, I have something to tell you."
15 minutes later
"...and now we're on the hunt for her. We don't have much of a choice. Listen, I know you have another life out here with the flock and everything, but I would really appreciate it if you returned as my pokemon and joined me on this adventure."
"But I feel compelled to warn you that there is no telling what might happen if you make a decision. Team Rocket wants to kill me, and everybody who is with me is also in danger. I want you to do what you want, so don't feel obligated." With a genuine smile, Ash finished by pulling Pidgeot's old ball off his belt and enlarging it.
To say the least, Pidgeot felt conflicted. She greatly wanted to be with Ash, especially at this time, but she didn't want to abandon her flock. That was understandable given that these pokemon had been her family for the past eight years, with the majority of them treated as if they were her own children.
When Ash saw Pidgeot's troubled expression, he felt horrible for even asking. He realized he was placing a lot of pressure on her. He let his selfish desire to reclaim Pidgeot to blind him to how Pidgeot might feel.
As was about to say anything, to apologize, when a swarm of Pidgeot, Pidgeotto, and Pidgys began to descend from the sky and land in the clearing around Pidgeot, Ash, and Pikachu.
"What exactly is this?" Ash questioned himself. He was initially concerned, but when he saw the familiar expression on his own Pidgeot's face, he knew it had to be her flock.
"Pidg!" exclaimed Pidgeot. said one of the Pidgeot.
"Pidgeot. Pidg Pidge" Pidgeot, Ash's Pidgey, reacted.
This back and forth continued for some time, with more Pidgeot and Pidgeotto joining in. Pikachu understood what they were saying although Ash didn't.
"Pika pika chu!" says one. Pikachu was added. He was definitely speaking to Ash's Pidgeot, and it was at this time that Ash realized what they were discussing.
"They're attempting to persuade her to accompany me...
They will be fine on their own."
Ash reasoned with himself. He didn't want to disrupt, so he just smiled at his old friend.
Pidgeot was paying great attention to what each pokemon had to say, and they all said something along the lines of 'go with him.', 'we know you want to, and it's okay!', and 'you made us strong, we can guard ourselves now.'
Before approaching Ash, Pidgeot took one last look at his flock and smiled gratefully at them. They were soon face to face, and Pidgeot pecked the core of Ash's pokeball before Ash could say anything. A red beam of energy swallowed Pidgeot. During the recapture, the ball did not even move.
Pidgeot was Ash's pokemon once more.
Ash smiled quietly as he brought the pokeball close to his face, overjoyed to be reunited with one of his first pokemon, "Girl, welcome back."
Ash then turned to face the rest of the flock "Thank you very much for being there for her during this difficult time. And thank you for allowing her to return with me; it means more than you can imagine. I promise to make Pidgeot's visits as frequent as possible." Ash completed with sincerity. He was sincerely grateful to the flock for allowing him to apprehend their 'master.'
They were all aware of how much Pidgeot had missed her trainer throughout the years, since Pidgeot would frequently tell anecdotes about her time with Ash. When they came across a random trainer, Pidgeot would stare at them longingly, plainly yearning to be Ash's pokemon once more.
Everyone in the flock knew that while Pidgeot was content with them, he'd never be as content as he was with Ash. That's where he's supposed to be, with Ash. And after what they'd heard about the young trainer, every member of the flock admired him.
The largest Pidgeot, which was even slightly larger than Ash's, approached the man. The two held gazes for a few moments before the huge Pidgeot bent his head in reverence. The others behind him followed suit, prompting Ash to smile and thank them once more. The new leader soared to the air moments later, quickly followed by the remainder of the flock.
Ash and Pikachu both kept an eye on the flying pokemon until they were out of sight. Ash remarked while still staring at the morning sky "That is why I enjoy Pokemon. Nothing in this term is more pure. Come on, buddy, we need to get back to the lab because we're leaving in a few hours."
With their goal completed, Pikachu and Ash took off running back towards Pallet Town.
It was now 10 a.m., and everyone in the lab was awake and getting ready for their adventure. Because the Ketchum home was destroyed, many of everyone's belongings were also destroyed. Professor Oak, on the other hand, had a lot of the necessities lying around his lab and was more than eager to part with them.
As Ash looked around, watching his friends gather their belongings and prepare for the long journey ahead, he couldn't help but smile softly. His buddies would go to any length for him, just as he would for them, and that meant everything to the raven-haired trainer. He had the best pals on the planet.
"Guys, once again, thank you for your assistance. I wasn't sure how I was going to do this on my own." Ash uttered it out of nowhere, intending to impress upon his pals how much he valued them.
"We've gone over this before, Ash; you don't have to thank us. We're doing this out of a desire to assist you, not out of a sense of obligation." Brock replied. kindly
"We'll always be there for you...just as you've always been there for us." May added, a wistful smile on her face.
"You know we've got your back, Ketchum." Paul said with a little smirk.
All of these words reassured Ash that his friendship with everyone in the room was as strong as it could be, but they also made him nervous. They were determined to assist him regardless of the cost.
Regardless of the expense.
That's what frightened him.
But he was well aware that he would never be able to persuade his pals to let him travel alone; he'd previously tried. Furthermore, Ash had no idea how he'd complete this assignment on his own. With this in mind, Ash told himself once more that he would use his life to protect those he cared about.
Taking a deep breath, he finished packing his backpack with everything he thought he'd need and slung it over his shoulders.
"Is everyone prepared?" Ash inquired, little concerned that they were about to go on the most significant adventure of their life.
"Only approximately." Serena replied. "Dawn is just finishing up, and she's the final one who hasn't finished."
"There's no reason to be concerned! I have just finished! We're ready to go." Dawn stated in her usual upbeat tone.
"How are you, James and Meowth?" Ash inquired.
"You bet, mate!" said Meowth, sticking out his paw in an attempt to make a thumbs up gesture.
Professor Oak entered the room just as Meowth finished speaking, with Tracey close behind.
"All right, who's ready to go?" Oak inquired, to which a slew of heads nodded.
Max had just observed Tracey's rucksack thrown over her shoulders when he realized it could only mean one thing.
"Are you coming with us, Tracey?" Max inquired, and Tracey nodded. Everyone else gradually saw Tracey was 'travel ready.'
"Without a doubt! When my friends need my assistance, I can't just sit back and do nothing. I know I'm just a pokemon watcher and researcher in training, but I believe I can offer!" Tracey concluded firmly, having agreed to accompany us the night before.
Ash had helped him a lot, including securing him a job with Professor Oak. Tracey owed the young man a lot and wanted to assist him in any way he could.
Ash approached him and placed his hand on his shoulder "Tracey, it's lovely to have you here. Thank you very much."
Tracey grinned and crossed the room to join the rest of the group, leaving Oak alone in front of everyone.
"Are you sure you'll be okay here by yourself, Professor?" Brock inquired out of concern for the elderly gentleman's well-being.
Oak burst up laughing "My boy, of course. I'm going to be OK. But when you all get back home, I'll be even better." The older man then returned his attention to Ash. "Oh, and Ash, this one's for you."
Oak handed Ash something that looked like the original pokedex but was black. "This is the Silph Company's most recent invention, before they were taken over. It has yet to be declared, let alone released. It functions similarly to a portable video phone! However, because it is still in its infancy, it is only programmed to call me at the present."
"That is wonderful, Professor! I'm surprised no one thought of this sooner. But how did you obtain one of them since they aren't even available to the general public?" Ash queried, his gaze drawn to the new technology in his grasp.
Oak smiled in response to Ash's inquiry "So, a few handpicked professors were given early copies to see if they could improve the product. Although we are pokemon teachers, many of us are also quite good with electronics."
"That is incredible! I can't wait to see how they operate when we come back!" Max exclaimed, palming May's face. It was typical of her brother to get so worked up about something so nerdy.
Ash slipped the device into his jacket pocket and turned to face the audience, "So, if we have everything, we should get moving. The sooner we leave, the sooner we will be able to save my mother and return home!"
The group of pals exchanged a succession of exuberant 'Yeah's' and 'let's do it's' as they said their goodbyes to the professor and went out the lab doors.
They were all thinking the same thing as they strolled down the street.
"Whatever happens, I have a sense our lives will be forever altered."
One of Team Rocket's Headquarters
Jessie was making her way through the top floors of the skyscraper, with a specific objective in mind. She quickly found herself where she desired to be. She entered Giovanni's office without waiting for a response after knocking on the massive oak door.
Giovanni noticed Jessie from behind his desk as soon as she walked in. "Jessie, I'm sorry. What a delightful surprise. What can I do for you?"
Giovanni liked Jessie's work ethic and tenacity after her initial accomplishments in their current strategy, which he thought were eclipsed by James and Meowth's foolishness.
"Well, sir, I was simply wondering why you were dispatching so many field agents. I mean, the way you're scattering them is like a trail that will take Ketchum right to us. I understand that's your strategy, but I've heard you give them all permission to use lethal force. Even a prize for doing so. What I'm trying to say is, why? I assumed you intended to handle the twerp yourself." Jessie was perplexed by the man's rationale, but Giovanni's expression informed her that he was doing precisely what he wanted to be doing.
"I'd like to eliminate Ash myself, but where's the fun in just letting him find us without a little challenge?" Giovanni murmured, a terrifying smirk on his face.
"But what if he is slain before he reaches this location?" Jessie was curious.
Giovanni shook his head, "That's OK. It would be awful, but I couldn't care less as long as Ketchum dies. All of this is purely for entertainment purposes. The strategy will be successful as long as Ketchum dies." Giovanni came to a halt and locked eyes with Jessie. "Furthermore, I believe you should give Mr. Ketchum some credit. He's a lot stronger than you think, and I'm confident he'll make it here in one piece so I can take care of him. But for the time being, we must wait and see what occurs. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to have some 'fun' with our new visitor."
Giovanni walked away with a wicked look that frightened even Jessie. Jessie was left alone in the gorgeous office. She reflected on Giovanni's scheme, how evil and terrible it was...
All she could do was grin.