Project Rabere

by Erk Rauorfox

When a virus outbreak is found rapidly spreading across Kanto, Ash Ketchum, a high school student studying in Saffron City must make the perilous journey back to Pallet Town to reunite with his mother. Battling through infected pokemon and humans, he must mustered up the courage to lead a group of survivors in his hometown and flourish under these dire times. (Harem, incest)

5. Beating Hearts

Find my story at Archive of Our Own:

So a quick mention here, this chapter would contain some limes, and future chapters would include full on lemons. In the event FFN moderators nukes this story to oblivion instead of fixing the traffic stats and other important user features on this otherwise dying website, please know that I have an AO3 account where I maintain the same story tittle and pen name, I update Project Rabere there too so don't worry if you feel like you're missing out.

Thank you for all of your support and comments! I know I don't interact much with readers but I figured that I shouldn't get in the way of the story. Cheers! The degeneracy will now further commence.

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The morning sunlight shone directly at Ash's face, awakening him from his slumber. He twist and turned, groaning in his wake when he burrowed into the soft pillows that were made for him. The warm jiggle and supple firmness were divine to the touch, his nose nestled deeper and deeper, gently grazing the mounds that reacted in kind. A low sensual moan escaped the lips of the other, swiftly grasping Ash's undivided attention. The fog in his brain gradually subsided and a moment of clarity washed over the young teenager, he slowly pulled his head away and realized that perfectly round shaped pillows were indeed soft milky breasts, belong that of his mother's.

'Oh.' That was the only thought bouncing around his single brain cell. He eyes settled on his mother's peaceful expression, strands of her auburn hair were all over her cheek, the steady breathing of her chest was calm and slow, yet it was the big smile plastered on her face that have Ash at ease. He caressed her cheek softly and pushed the strands of hair to aside, smoothening it out with his fingers gently running through her silky locks. He paused for a moment and pondered about what happened between them last night. His cheeks burned up rapidly, the sheer intensity of his mother straddling on top of him as she gave him a sloppy kiss to the forehead have him parched for milk, mommy's milk to be precise.

'Gah this is so messed up!' The rational side of him smacked him right in the head, what the hell is he thinking? She is his mother! His loving single mom who showered him all the care and affection in the world! Sure last night his mother was the one who instigated the whole physical intimacy that had him aroused and thirsting for more, and maybe you can blame her for taking advantage of her horny and emotionally deprived son. B-But Ash knew that both of them shared something for one another last night, a profound feeling that transcends beyond the bonds of mother and son. She was lonely and was looking for companionship in a desolate world, the spark and embers that ignited between them were merely the beginning. He couldn't think of a more cruel world without her by his side, damn the morality or the societal taboo, she has been everything good to him. The Pallet Town teenager sighed and rubbed his face with his hands, he could think of this later, for now he should get dressed and be prepared for long day ahead of him. The two of them were probably lonely and they were actively seeking comfort from someplace safe, which is each other.

Dressed with white shirt and long pants, Ash descended down the main halls of the laboratory. The morning sunlight seep in from the second floor windows, allowing the natural lighting to illuminate the entire room. The young man smiled at the homely design of the main hall filled with sofas, houseplants and a wide screen television. This was meant to be the waiting room for the laboratory, the modern and minimalistic pantry was sitting right next to it. All things considered, if running water and electricity is no longer an issue, this laboratory would have been the perfect luxury dream house. Spacious enough to accommodate 10 people at least, there many unused storage and file cabinets rooms that can be transformed into private bedrooms at a moment's notice.

'I mean if we ever get to that point.' Ash chuckled to himself at that, he couldn't imagine getting more roommates right now. He let out a sigh and stretched his limbs upwards, it was time for his daily morning routine. He unclipped Makuhita's pokeball from his belt and unleashed the valiant warrior from within, the Guts pokemon emerged from its confinements and began to do a series of air kicks and tricks, impressing its trainer with the dazzling martial art moves.

"Morning buddy, ready to start our day?" The fighting type grunted in earnest, he always looked forward to their morning sparring sessions. His young trainer was wise enough to request its tutelage and guidance in learning martial arts. The importance of self defense in their current predicament cannot be understated, even with capable pokemon and a firearm by his side, it doesn't hurt for Ash to know how to defend himself with just his body. They began to make their way to the grassy fields outside the lab, open and sparse, this was the perfect condition and environment to hone their body. The morning breeze was cool and crisp as the lush grass danced to the tune of the wind, the fish-eye view of the town below gave them undisputed sight of Pallet Town. Both fighters took their respective sides, each eager to prove and test their mantle against one another. For Makuhita, it was surprised when Ash took a keen interest in learning Taekwondo and Muay Thai, valuing these two specific martial arts for one purpose only.

"Hya!" The ferocious force generated by the roundhouse kick was blocked by Makuhita's bulky body that absorbed the mass of the strike. The fighting type grinned at Ash's gradual improvement, he was beginning to use more of his weight in his kicks, the strikes were more straightened and his body coordination were starting to match in perfect tempo. Ash subsequently practiced on striking Makuhita with the sole of his foot, rotating his entire body to give it his all at delivering a spinning heel kick. The impact admittedly caught the trained pokemon by surprised, it actually hurt!

"Ash, you're up early." The duo paused their exercise and turned to Xenia. Instead of her usual police uniform and hat, she instead wore a blue jacket and a black sport top that exposed her impressive cleavage and navel, jeans and a pair of red sneakers. Her hair was still the same ponytail style, but why change what's already perfect?

"Morning Xenia." The trained officer of the law smiled at how active Ash was, she honestly thought he would still be sleeping. The poor boy spent the whole week travelling and waking up early, so no one would have blame him if he sleep in for the day.

"Sparring?" The fighting type nodded, Ash may not have the strength or technique like other martial artists, but his unwavering resolve and dedication at improving himself is commendable. He would make a ferocious fighter one day and Makuhita couldn't wait for Ash to fight him on even grounds, their battle would be legendary!

"Maku!" Xenia giggled at the series of kicks and air pumps did by Makuhita, she knew he was being serious but the view from here looked super adorable. She turned to Ash and was mildly impressed by the sweat he already worked out, his muscles while not veiny or large was starting to show signs of obvious mass. If he keeps working out and train, well there's no doubt he would be impressing ladies left and right with his physique and humble nature.

"I see, you're practicing martial arts." Xenia joined Ash and sat on the grassy fields with him, feeling the soft ground through her fingertips. It felt good to sit with a friend and talk like this, Ash was younger than her but not that much. The realization of their age difference brought a sigh to Xenia, oh where have the years gone by? She remember being around Ash's age, learning in the academy with her cousins and relatives. She was competitive like many of her kin, so they give it their all in their courses. Now at the age of 20, Xenia was a young woman who never really have a life outside of law enforcement.

"Xenia?" The concerning look from Ash ended her train of thought, she could think of that later.

"Oh sorry Ash, don't mind me, just thinking." The deep inflection in her tone indicated something was bothering her but Ash was never one to pry on people's affairs. If she wants to talk to him, he is all ears. Until then, he is ready and willing to wait. They have all the time in the world and frankly, time is all they seemed to have right now.

"So you're practicing you're kicks, may I ask why?" The young officer wrapped her arms around her knees, rocking it slight as she eyed Ash. From this angle, he looked quite dashing with his longer hair flowing with the wind and the glorious morning sun that gently kissing his tan skin.

"I think kicking to distance myself from the infected is a good choice. It prevent my arms from being bitten while grappling them, if I can take incapacitate them before they can get close the better." Although she was impressed by how much thought Ash put into it, she knew that part of it came from experience as well. She was genuinely concern about Ash, he brushed off his encounters with the infected as it was nothing, but she wasn't convinced that the horrors he witnessed didn't left a mental scar on him.

"That's a good choice, you really thought things through. Does Makuhita know how to practice kicks?" Given the physique and shape of Makuhita, it wasn't exactly the most ideal teacher. Makuhitas predominantly fight their opponents through grappling and wrestling, slamming their body weight or their clobbering fists. Their legs while strong and muscular, are only meant for supporting and balancing their weight.

"Uh a little, he is a mixed martial artist right buddy?" Ideally, a Hitmonlee should be the one showing Ash the ropes. When it comes to striking with your legs, you would find no better pokemon than it. The Kicking pokemon rightfully earns it name by mastering every known martial art that involves striking with its legs, utilizing its elastic and stretchy long legs, it is able to store large amounts of momentum based energy and unleashed devastating strikes that would leave even a seasoned Machamp scarred.

"Ma?" The half-hearted yea from the Guts pokemon earn a chuckle from Xenia, it seems even the little one had doubts in his ability to teach Ash. It was no means its fault, they aren't built or trained in the art of kicking. Flexibility and finesse is by far the most crucial step when it comes to kicking.

"If you want, I can spar with you, its good to fight a live human target too." Ash blinked and glanced upwards, he gulped at the majestic sight of Officer Jenny's toned abs being visibly in front of him. On closer inspection, she was moderately muscular and curvy, hiding most of her assets and figure behind her uniform. Now with casual clothing, Ash's eyes are open to the cool tomboy vibe Xenia exudes, an absolute win in his book.

"R-Really?" Xenia nodded and tossed her jacket to aside, she stretched her limbs upwards and did some basic warmups for her body. Naturally, it further accentuated her figure and Ash had a difficult time prying his eyes away from her. What didn't help was the raunchy and spicy night he had with his mother that left him sexually aroused and active. For a growing adolescents who is undergoing puberty, it was incredibly difficult for him to stay focused on the task at hand.

"I don't mind! You ready Ash?" The determined grin from Xenia brought Ash back to reality, the jet black haired trainer is tenacious in everything he does, he have to be prepared for everything not just for himself, but also for the ones he loves. He took Xenia's hand and felt her strength pull him upright to her, she was much stronger than she looked and Ash is eager to spar with her.

Without any protection equipment on both of them, Ash was initially reluctant at fighting Xenia or giving it his all, but when Xenia didn't share his sentiments and strike his abdomen with her bare fist, he was quick to change his tune. Blow for blow, Ash tried to distance himself from Xenia via launching sweeping kicks or elbow strikes, but she quickly deflected by blocking both of the attacks and retaliated by knee kicking him. The blunt force against his chest pinned him down to the ground, the pain to his bones and rib cages were felt thoroughly as the impact rippled across his body.

"Argh!" Xenia's battle hardened expression softened immediately once she realized how much pain Ash was in. She swiftly dropped her stance and went to his side, tending his injuries frantically as she tried to apologies for going overboard. Seeing his chance, Ash smirked and turned her around, rolling their bodies across the grass fields with Ash finally ending on top of her. The smug look on his face borderlined between a punch or a pinch and Xenia wasn't sure what to do with him.

"Heh got ya." Xenia narrowed her eyes, can't believe Ash would take advantage of her guilt like that. She loosened a chuckle and relaxed her arms by her side, this was quite the interesting position they were in right now. A young man directly on top of a woman? What could possibly happen between the two of them? The Kalosian gave a small seductive smile, her eyes drooped slightly as it beckon Ash's utmost attention. It was extremely effective at lowering Ash's guard as his arms begin to wobble from the exhaustion and excitement, keenly staring at her beautiful sandy brown eyes that glistened with playfulness. Without warning, she pushed him off her and laughed at his yelps, clearly the young man was caught off guard by the sudden attack. He let out a pout at his own wild imagination and hormones but laughed at how ridiculous the situation was. As the chuckles and laughter settled between the two humans, they laid side by side on the grass, staring the clear blue sky above that have clouds drifting across the bright morning sun. Their sweat slowly evaporated with the passing of the wind and the comfortable silence shared between two friends settled in.

"You did good Ash." The young man turned to her, despite his shenanigans and cheap tactics Xenia sound genuinely proud of him.

"Thanks Jenny- I mean Xenia." She chuckled at his attempt to correct himself, honestly she didn't mind, either one is fine by her. When she was younger she always wanted to standout from her family, she didn't want be another Officer Jenny bound to law and order. She wanted to be a trainer, to travel around the world and see the different sights. Yet as she grew older, responsibilities and expectations tempered her own dreams and desires, she knew she have to do her duty just like her mother before her. The fantasy of going to faraway lands was but a distant memory, now she is happy and content with the life of an officer. Of course during quiet nights where there are no distractions, she often pondered what life would be like if she took a different path instead.

"It's okay Ash, I don't mind either." The aspiring trainer smiled, he wanted to address her by her proper name. He turned to face her and felt his face blushing from how close they were earlier. Their lips were almost within kissing distance and if he took the oppurtunity to lean forward, who knows what would happen then? Well probably a jab to the cheek and a kick to the crotch, you don't kiss a girl out of the blue like that!

"You're a good son Ash." The soft murmur from her earned his attention, what brought this up?

"Hmm?" Xenia placed her hands behind her head, staring at the distant sky above that promised unrestricted freedom to those who can ride the wind.

"When the attacks happened, I tried my best to get everyone to safety but I failed. They just overwhelmed us and I was forced to kill them, the panic spread and everyone just flee the scene. I thought it was over for me when they hold me down but your mother managed to throw a fire extinguisher right at attacker, saving my life. Since then, we managed to stick together and tried to help others to slip into the borders of Johto." He listened intently, full processing everything. It was no wonder the two of them were so close, both of them saved each other from certain demise. Although Ash was thankful, very thankful that both of them were safe, he couldn't help but point out the fact that his mother and a police officer actively helped with illegal border crossing.

"I-Isn't it dangerous? If they get infected and you know." Xenia knew that and so did Delia, but what choice did they have? Many of the residents in Pallet Town have children and elderly, there was no way they could have survive. She refused to separate family members and went along with it before Johto's border patrol tightened their watch.

"We knew that, but most of them have children with them Ash! We know it's the wrong thing to do but the infection happened so quickly and there was no other route. We personally vetted them before they crossed borders, all safe!" Ash supported his weight using his elbows, chances are if they are infected the symptoms and aggression would have been immediate. So far, Ash had not encountered any infected individual who managed to suppress or hide the infection. In many ways it was a blessing, imagine if it took days for the virus to completely take over your body and that your loved ones whom you thought were safe, turns out to be infected, leaving you a few hours to decide their fate. The mental anguish and the emotional trauma, it would have been too much for anyone to bear.

"So it's just you and mom who made it?" Xenia bit her lower lip and turned to Ash, recounting how everything went from manageable to utter chaos.

"At first they were 25 of us, everything was going well and we have enough food and water. Then slowly over time, they turned against each other. Some were sealing food and water from one another, others were finding excuses just to get rid of one another. It was horrible Ash, to see friendly neighbours and long time friends killing each other was just-" Ash didn't hesitate to pull Xenia into a hug, he wrapped his arms around her body and placed a warm hand behind her back, soothing her woes by rubbing it. The sniffles and tears made him squeeze her tighter, placing his chin above her shoulder as he whispered words of comfort to her. He couldn't imagine the horror and helplessness his mother and Xenia have to endure, watching neighbours shouting, throwing tables and tools at each other. Perhaps the destruction of their homes didn't come from the infected, but by the disgruntled humans who refused to work together.

"S-Sorry I didn't mean to cry, look at me, a trained officer of the law and I'm bawling my eyes out." Ash didn't mind, he didn't think crying is a sign of weakness at all. Lord knows that he felt a huge burden and pressure was off his chest after breaking down in his mother's arms last night. It's healthy to do this, and Ash was more than happy to be Xenia's pillar of support and her shoulder to cry on.

"It's okay to cry Xenia." The young woman took the time to recomposed herself, relishing the warm embrace from the young man actively looking out for her. She slowly snaked her arms around Ash's body, holding onto him for support and balance. The young officer burrowed her head onto his strong shoulders, her heart slowly returning back to the normal pace.

"Ash can I ask you a question?" The timid and uncertain quivering from her raised concerns, he pulled back his embrace to get a good look on her. Her turquoise hair were scruffy, her cheeks tint in the shade of pink with her puffy eyes staring right back at him. The biological instincts within Ash immediately made him tightened his embrace, anything to make the people he care for safe and protected.

"Sure Xenia." She sighed at the question she was about to ask, a sour topic that would interrupt their otherwise sweet mood but she had to mentally prepare Ash for the inevitable. Infected are still a huge threat to their survival and if one of them were unlucky enough to be bitten, they must confront the horrible reality.

"If I get bitten and infected, would you kill me before the transformation happen?" The absolute shock from Ash worried Xenia, she placed her clenched fist on his chest and could see the conflicted look in his innocent hazel brown eyes.

"H-Huh, I- I don't know." She expected that answer, her question came out of no where and he was not mentally prepare tp give an answer.

"What about your mother? If she is-"

"I don't know damn it! Don't ask me that!" The furious outbreak from him silenced Xenia immediately, she averted her gaze and broke the embrace from him. The young man felt his anger seething away when he realized that he lashed out at her, but the mere thought of his mother being bitten and he was forced to point the gun was just- he hated it. He had endless nightmares of it and now he is by her side, it was a matter of keeping her safe.

"I'm sorry Ash I didn't mean to- I just want you to be mentally prepared if the day happens." He knew that, the dread of being infected was still a substantial risk. A lone Rattata sneaking past their defenses and crawling into the laboratory in the shade of night was scarier than staring down a horde of infected charging towards them from the mountains. Ash placed a hand on top of Makuhita's head, patting the Guts pokemon who took a emotional supportive role.

"How about you Xenia? If I get bitten would you shoot me?" Xenia gripped her fists, she had long accepted that while all of them can get close to one another, it would have just made the decision to kill them that much difficult when the time comes. But the vivid memory of Pallet Town residents screaming from help, begging for aid and crying when their loved ones left them, she didn't want to relieve that memory again. If she could spare Ash and herself from the experience, she would do it in a heartbeat.

"Yes I will." The hesitant soft reply from him earned a nod from Ash, in some ways he felt relieved that she is willing to do that. He would rather die before he could harm anyone, especially his own mother. Arceus, he didn't want her to see what he would become.

"I- I have to go Ash, sorry." The young man reached out to her, only for Xenia to run back to the laboratory. The jet black haired teen growled in frustration, he wasn't mad at her! Everything that was going so well for them seemed to be a fantasy daydream knowing that one of them can get infected at any time. The immunity and virus, they must be further studied. He placed his hand beneath his chin, he was sure Professor Oak and his researchers had left some notes behind before he left. They couldn't possibly carrying every little notebook or data file with them. Thus it was settled, keeping himself preoccupied is the best way to keep his mind off the negative stuff too.

"Let's go buddy." The two friends make their way back to the research facility, the inner lab testing facility was where most scientists conduct their work and research. If they want to get information regarding viruses, pokemon or evolution, that is the best place to start. Alternatively, he could head straight to Professor Oak's study room to search for personal and private files. Yeah, that seems like a good place to start. He peered through the sterilize hallway with white walls and floors, the frosted blue tint windows and glasses just made the whole vibe uncomfortable.

'It's not a zombie apocalypse scenario without visiting a laboratory.' Ash find it utterly ridiculous that everything seemed to be going according to the movies and games. The inner scientific laboratory was mostly sealed off with security doors, but nothing a burly pokemon can't tear down with his brutish strength. Makuhita grunted and slammed the doors open with his fist, banging a dent within the metallic door as it slung wipe open. The seasoned traveler whistled at the sight, Makuhita doesn't hold back his punches huh.

"Nice one Makuhita." Finally, the main office room of Professor Oak. Nestled in the inner sections of the laboratory, the experimental rooms were located far away from their main operations room, perfect and safe distance in case experiments go awry. The rows of file cabinets have been thoroughly searched, numerous papers of important files and research proposal were scatted across the floor. The sacred coffee maker that powered through the overworked scientists were in clean and pristine condition, a testament to the grave situation at hand.

"Seems like Professor Oak and his aides left in a hurry." He surveyed the office, nothing entirely out of the ordinary. The printed papers on the grounds were all complicated jibber, filled with scientific jargons and medical terms that were beyond high schooler comprehension. He sighed and further searched for paperwork that mentioned the latest pokenootic viruses or wild pokemon attacks, seems like most of it have been vetted or shredded. He knelt down to the desk and pulled out the drawers, secret compartments are common in this laboratory and Samuel had personally shown Ash a few hiding spots himself. They are mostly for cheeky snacks and sweet candy bars, but Ash thought it was worthwhile search.

'Hey there's something here.' He protruded his tongue outward as he began to feel around the wooden cabinets, his fingers slipped upwards until he felt a smooth material that definitely wasn't made of wood, it was paper. Sandwiched between two drawers, it was meticulously placed there to ensure no one can find it. Ash managed to find the corner of the paper and slowly pulled the paper through the gaps of the drawer, what was revealed, was a curious written email that was printed out.

An urgent letter to League Committee,

Over the years, there have been much heated debate over the issue of trainers catching any pokemon as they please after a series of unfortunate incidents that resulted in casualties and condemnation from the public, leading to policymakers and the League Committee members to draft a new set of regulations and restrictions over the type of pokemon a trainer can own. As a member of the scientific community and the world's most renowned Pokemon researcher, I, Samuel Oak humbly request the committee to reconsider drafting such laws that infringes on the right of the public. The right to befriend or catch any pokemon, has been there since the first interaction between human and pokemon. It is bound and written within our constitution, and has been accepted by the United Regions organization. I believed that everyone should have the right to catch any pokemon they desire, so as long they earned the pokemon's trust and respect. I urge the committee and its chairman to thoroughly reconsider the amendments to Article 3 of Kanto's constitution, the right to catch and befriend pokemon regardless of its status, typing or egg group. This is an issue that does not need to be politicized and a civil discussion surrounding the matter should be opened up for debate to the public sphere, rather than in enclosed circles.

Ash raised his eyebrows over the context of the letter, he didn't know the League association is considering restricting the type of pokemon they can own. While it's true that cases revolving pokemon rampages or abuse of pokemon have become more common, these were issues that has been happening since the dawn of humanity itself, social media and greater accessibility of information just allowed it to be more wide known. Enshrined within their sacred constitution is Article 3, and any amendments to it would be met with the fierce backlash of the public. Rather than solving the issue through education or rehabilitations, the government seemed keen on banning or restricting the pokemon the public can own outright. Like any political matter, Ash couldn't help but to wonder that there is a secret agenda behind the decision of the ruling, and Professor Oak had rightfully called out their act. He frowned at the note and placed it down on the table, the fact Professor Oak purposefully hid the note and left it behind for Ash was concerning in itself.

He wanted him to find the note.

'Wait there's another note.' He finger felt another layer of paper behind it, he began to pinch the papers and rubbed it to generate friction, successfully separating the other paper to allow him to peel it off. Another letter, but this time it had the lettermark from the Kanto Intelligence Network, a military branch specialized in gathering intelligence and conducting espionage. Why a letter of such confidentiality is within Oak's lab is anyone's guess.

In regards to Professor Oak's letter,

As the world learn more about pokemon, the less we know about them. Their untapped potential for greatness remains an enigma even to the most dedicated of scholars. However, it is a well known trend that trainers from across the divide are rapidly acquiring much stronger pokemon than ever before due to the existence of mega evolution, dynamaxing, terastallization and competitive cross breeding, leading to an explosion of powerful yet unchecked individuals. Gone are the days where regional starters and pseudo legendary pokemon reign supreme in competitive tournament battle, now almost every pokemon can attain the status of a "pseudo legendary" with the right environment, training and enhancements. This has naturally led to concerns over the potential of abuse from rogue actors. Numerous research had shown that an average fresh graduate from a certified Trainer's Academy can easily defeat a trained solider in the field of combat, not necessarily out of their own martial prowess and combat capabilities, but over their ability to command their pokemon in the art of war and military applications. Modern education syllabus for Trainer Academies have sourced all their references from real world tactical warfare and military operations, incorporating tried and proven military tutelage tactics into mere pokemon battle strategies. In the hands of a competent trainer, their pokemon can easily overwhelm battalion of infantries and modern military assets with ease. Coordinated attacks in the form of guerilla warfare or insurgency forces have dire consequences to military logistics and deployment.

Therefore, a civil uprising from trainer groups presents a substantial threat to Kanto's national security and public order. It is within League's interest to update existing laws and regulations to address the evolving landscape of pokemon usage while preserving the rights and welfare of the public. We recognize that this is a complex and sensitive issue, and a thoughtful, multi-pronged approach is essential. We recommend the establishment of a task force, comprising experts in pokemon management and law enforcement to resolutely safeguard the interest and security of Kanto.

"It seems that the government is considering restricting the type of pokemon we can own because they are afraid of a civil uprising." The young man muttered to himself as he skim through it one last time. The ramifications from these letters are damning in itself, if this letter was leak to the public months before the infection starts, Ash could see riots, protestors and chaos erupting from the sphere. There is some semblance to the truth however, pokemon are simply much more powerful than humans and if a group of talented trainers decide to use their skills for malicious purposes, no one can really stop them. What good is conventional soldiers kitted out with the latest military gadgets and equipment when a Charizard can burn an entire city to the ground within minutes? There were already enough disturbing cases of pedophiles using Hypno or other psychic pokemon to kidnap children or teenagers, so what's stopping other criminals from doing the other nefarious crimes? The subject of bad people using pokemon for bad things is not new, it's common knowledge even, but to highlight the issue outright and give special attention to the matter shows vested interest and secret agendas.

'But why did Professor Oak left this for me? How would he know I would make it to Pallet Town?' Something wasn't right, Professor Oak definitely know about the virus before all hell went loose, so he left traces of crumbs for Ash to investigate before leaving for Cinnabar. If-

Distance footsteps alerted the duo, with Ash instinctively reaching out for his firearm, only to realize he left it with Xenia. He focused his gaze upon the long hallway and took a nearby glass beaker, ready to throw the flasks at a moment's notice. He steadied his breathing and aim, his finger itching to throw the beaker with a sleight of hand. The thumping and footfalls gradually become louder, with Makuhita narrowing its eyes for potential confrontation with a sneaky saboteur. The room began to warp around their them, their vision blurring around the fabric of reality when suddenly, the intruder had arrived within their sights.

A Pikachu.

"Hi Pikachu." The electric mouse beamed a squeak and jumped onto the table, giving a morning greeting to Makuhita who seemed pleased to see his fellow friend. Ash chuckled at the sight and placed the beaker back on the table. He stared at the two papers and pondered on his next move. He hoisted up his phone and took picture of it, creating multiple backups just in case. These confidential and sensitive documents have something to do with the viral outbreak, Ash was certain of it. But he traded his tinfoil hat for a hard one, it was now time to look into their electricity woes. With their business concluded within the laboratory, they strolled along the power generator of the research facility located near the backdoor, the massive behemoth was the size of a lorry itself. The complicated transformer components and feeders were beyond Ash's knowledge but Pikachu should easily remedy the issue. I mean, that's the best shot they have.

"Pikachu can you try powering up the generator?" The electric mouse saluted and jumped onto the generator, it was a simple fix really, all he have to do is kickstart the heating and provide enough juice to allow it to self-sustain itself. It closed his eyes and began the exothermic process, the faint streaks of lightning engulf Pikachu with its wild sparks jumping around in perfect harmony. It didn't take long for the machine to start chugging along and pick up steam, the blinking lights above Ash made his grin until finally, the lights were back on. He wasn't sure how Pikachu did it but as someone famous on the internet once said, it just works.

"It works!" Pikachu squeaked once his efforts had bear much fruit, he discharged the remnants of the statics to prevent accidental injuries to Ash and jumped onto him, earning a well deserved kiss to the forehead and heatpats. They finally did it, day two of their time in Pallet Town and they practically solved two issues, water and electricity. Of course the power would not run forever and having Pikachu constantly suppling them electricity would be an issue down the line, but for now they can celebrate another victory!

"Pika!" Ash grinned at his starter's jubilant joy, he deserved all the ketchup packets in the world. The trio exited the electrical room and entered the main halls, flickering on the switches to see if the lighting works and as expected, everything was smooth operation.

"Ash did you restore the power?" A familiar voice came running towards them, Xenia and Growlithe watch in awe as the lights of the laboratory were functioning. Sweat glistened over skin, with her sport tank top drenched in sweat, it seems that she was working out prior running to the lab.

"Pikachu did, but without a constant source, it's only for the moment. The lab has it own generator that channels it's energy from solar and methane from pokemon but since all the pokemon left, solar is out best option. Not exactly stable or consistent during monsoon season." Pallet Town used to have numerous wind turbines in the grassy fields, near a large community of Pidgeys where they flock about. It was a commercial and environmental success, but after a series of incidents involving injured Pidgeys and Spearows, the wind turbines project were temporarily removed until a new nest for the flying pokemon have been established. Its has been year since then and most of the residents had forgotten about it, but Ash sees an oppurtunity here.

"Incredible, does communications still work?" To see a sweaty hot police officer all excited was definitely not on Ash's to-see list today, but he ain't complaining. As for communication and network signals, Ash still have his doubts on it, Kanto's centralized gridlock system meant if the operations of the main center was disrupted, all of the connecting networks and power would be affected as well. The only way to reactivate the national grid is to do something known as Black Start, essentially restarting the small power stations and funnel their energy to bigger ones, interconnecting all the power stations to power blocks and cities. The process repeats itself until the entire region is back online but even that might not prove to be sufficient. The young man checked his phone signal and frowned at the signal bar, not even the emergency calls only bar shows up.

"Still no signal." Xenia sighed and perched one hand on her hips, she expected that much.

"Damn it, I was wondering if we can reach out to Viridian City." Ash furrowed his eyebrows, Viridian City is a 3 hours walk from Pallet Town, the travel time itself would just burn half a daylight gone. It was the closest city and supplies should be abundant but given how other cities had fallen to the infection, Ash was sure Viridian suffered the same fate.

"Why there?" Xenia nursed a pensive expression and wagged her fingers.

"I will explain when your mother wakes up." He glanced at his phone, it was 8:54 AM now, his mother must have been thoroughly drained since last night. A quick breakfast and all of them would be raring to go.

"I'll go get her then." Heavy footsteps echoed the laboratory and Ash knocked on the door to ensure his mother was decent. Hearing no audible response or groans, he twist the doorknob and enter the room. He grinned at the sight of his snoozing mother, still slumbering away with the blanket covered over her, where the covers come from was anyone's guess.

"Mom? Wake up mom." The older lady moaned and turned around to face Ash, she let out a yawn and rubbed her face, riding up her tank top that almost revealed her underboob. The attentive son of hers stared deeply at her assets, the profound philosophical implications and the esoteric contemplations would forever change a man, in this case a sexually active teenager who is smitten with his mother.

"A-Ash? What time is it." Still, the young man respected his mother too much to stare. He sat by their shared mattress and leaned his shoulder against her, allowing her to paw onto him for support. Her groggy and slumbering state was adorable, he never got to see this sight of his mother before so coloured him spoiled!

"Breakfast." The words laced with magical incantations instantly had an affect on her, breakfast is sacred to Delia. It was by the only means of getting her through a tough work day in the office, so a hearty breakfast is a must, especially during these harsh times. It would also marks the first time in many months her son would have breakfast with her, so it has to be extra special.

"Morning hug please." The dutiful son did as he was told, giving his needy mother the warmest hug he can muster. Her snuggly body had an instant affect on him, as if everything would be alright and all of his worries have disappeared at that very moment. He would never take his mother's hugs for granted now, knowing that the virus and infected might ravage their poorly fortified laboratory one day, Ash is taking every chance he can get to embrace her.

"Slept well?" Delia giggled at the soft husky whisper from him, she thoroughly enjoyed the more open and expressive side of her son. She snaked her arms around his neck and stared deeply into his eyes, her face flushed lightly under the beautiful morning sun.

"Very well Ashy." He cleared his throat over his mother oddly playful tone, there were in weird territory right now weren't they? Last night was just the result of their long periods of separation and loneliness cumulated into an intense desire to show how much they miss and love each other. No matter, they should head to the pantry now and meet up with Xenia.

"Come on, Xenia is waiting for us." The auburn haired woman nodded, she is eager to whip up a fine breakfast for everyone too! The two humans and pokemon exited the room, with Delia's sharp and sensitive nose instantly smelling the undeniable odor of gasoline. She practically bolted into the kitchen and marveled at the sight of a working stove and running tap water.

"The power is back! Did you do this Ash?" The high schooler chuckled and shook his head, he pointed at a smug looking Pikachu who seemed proud of his handiwork. His powers know no bounds or limits!

"Pikachu did." The electric mouse was under the mercy of Delia's bone crushing hug, it squeaked for help from his trainer but alas the young man had abandoned it in his time of need. The various assaults of kisses and hugs to the electric type earned a chuckle from Xenia who was busying heating up the stove. Now with modern luxury slowly seeping back to their lives, they can maintain some degree of normalcy. Fortification, agriculture and medicine, these three factors must be prioritize if they wish to thrive here.

"I'll get started right away! Xenia would you be a dear and help me?" Ash's eyes darted around the two women, each of their limbs and hands reaching for the various ingredients, dry goods and food items on the shelves. There were pasta packets and jars of cashew nuts and almonds, perfect for storing for prolonged periods of time. Sadly, all of the fresh produce and perishable goods stored in the refrigerator and freezer must be thrown away due to the power outage.

"Wasted food, what a shame to throw this out." Delia peered at the box of spoiled food Ash was carrying and spoke up. She had just the idea to turn trash into treasure.

"We can turn them into fertilizer sweetie, put them aside I will take care of them." The filial son did just that, his mother's love for gardening and growing household plants was paying off in dividends. She somehow had the miraculous ability to nurture every withering or dying household plant back to health, had she become a trainer herself, Ash can imagine her becoming a grass or fairy type mistress.

'Now that I think about it, it's about time mom own a pokemon for herself.' For companionship and security purposes, his mother needs a pokemon to always stay by her side. The pokemon has to be easy to care for, preferably adorable because his mom loves cute pokemon, cuddly and deceptively strong. It shouldn't be too hard to find a pokemon fitting for his mother. The young man stared at his mother, she and Xenia seemed to be in their own world right now as they prepare breakfast together, man does he feel left out now.

"Thanks mom. Do you need any help?" Having done everything for himself so far, Ash felt a little spoiled and pampered if he is not actively contributing to the group. Cooking is still a skill Ash desperately wants to learn, especially stew and soup recipes.

"Set up the plates and utensils please." Ash assumed his duty as table setter and began to pulled out the cutlery. With the help of Pikachu, they set the plates, bowls and napkins on the table. The homely and cozy sight brought smiles to everyone in the room, this is as close to normalcy as they can get. Minutes pass and Ash grinned when Xenia and his mother placed a pipping hot pot filled with spaghetti on the coaster. The familiar smell of ketchup and tomato permeated the air, something which Pikachu instantly squeaked in an excitement. Finally after weeks of tomato celibacy, Pikachu could give in its carnal desire to feast on ketchup.

"Hmm this is nice! I haven't had a good breakfast in ages." Delia smiled at the nostalgic grin on her son's face, she leaned down and peck his cheek before settling down herself. She had promised him eggs, bacon, waffles, pancakes and everything of that sort, and yet he looks content with mere canned food and old pasta.

"Hehe it's just spaghetti and spam mixed with ketchup, nothing too fancy." Ash caught the guilt-ridden look from his mother's face, he reached out and grasped her hand, firmly clenching it to let her know that any breakfast made by her is nothing short of divine and exquisite.

"We make do with what we have mom, I love it!" Xenia sighed at the heartwarming display between the two, she dearly hope her own relatives and friends are alright. All of her close family members are all stationed in Kalos, and she had not heard from them since. She leaned her head against the palm of her hands, eyeing the portion of the pot that can barely feed two people.

"Food is going to become an issue soon isn't it?" Their supplies were dwindling by the day, processed food is rare in Pallet Town due to the town's agricultural roots and love for fresh food. While normally a feat worthy celebrating for health and well-being sake, quickly becomes a nightmare when you realized fresh food have the lowest shelf life and preservation value. Sure, they have a working refrigerator now but it isn't sustainable for large scale harvest, they need to begin growing crops and start their farms before winter hits.

"I'm thinking of making a garden now, seed packets are abundant in a farming town like Pallet." Xenia nodded at Delia's suggestion, it would be best to start planting the seeds, a self-sustaining farm is crucial when factories and processing food plants can no longer provide for you. The young man crossed his arms and thought more deeply about their food crisis, he had heard that grass types can speed up the growth of crops and plants.

"If we can get grass types to help with farming, we would be eating greens for days!" The two ladies blinked at Ash's idea, can pokemon really do that? They never seen pokemon directly influencing crop rotation or growth, most of the farmwork is always done by humans or machines.

"Can grass types do that?" Xenia trailed off her words when her eyes are drawn to Pikachu's antics of sitting on top of his master's head.

"Not all, some of them actually sap the nutrients from crops and vegetables like Oddishes, but they can do the reverse too. Grass types can influence and manipulate plant growth, but I do wonder is it edible to eat the seeds they sprout. Never really wonder about that before." The three humans thought deeply, chances are the seeds would be really bitter to deter predators from eating them. The fastest growing crops to Delia's knowledge was microgreens, approximately 10 days of care and constant watering. But their calorific value is low, not to mention it is not filling at the slightest, they would need to rely on tomatoes, corns and cabbages to fill their bellies.

"Can you drink the water produced from a water type directly?" Ash has honestly never thought about that, his mother posed a good question. Pokemon function different from humans, their mouths and body are contain pathogens and bacteria harmful to human consumption. Maybe in dire situations when you are near thirst that is applicable.

"I'm pretty sure it's dangerous, the water needs to be filtered and sterilized by chemicals first. But we're going off topic, Xenia you were mentioning about reaching out to Viridian City?" The policewoman nodded vigorously, she almost forgotten about that!

"Right. We desperately need supplies and find survivors, having a large group of people working together is beneficial during a crisis. Pallet Town has no factories, industrial buildings or any major institutions, Viridian is the closest major city we have." Ash didn't particularly like the idea, finding supplies is well and good but without proper transportation of their goods, they can only carry so much. It didn't seemed worth it travelling hours on foot just to get a handful of soup cans or medical gauzes, potentially life saving yes, but the trip itself is not the risk. Alternatively, they might run into people who need their help and in return, can help them, yet the looming thought of not having enough food for everyone scares Ash.

"But our resources can't accommodate so many people." Xenia understood his worries well enough, but she was sure that it was worth the trade off. They have plenty of canned food and rice crackers lying around, the supplies should last them for a week or two.

"Their skills and manpower more than makes up for it Ash, remember that we still can rely on fishing for a constant supply of food, provided the Magikarps and fish pokemon are not infected." Ash shuddered at that idea, after seeing so many of the infected Spearows dead bodies tumbling down at the docks and the rivers, he rather not take that risk.

"Y-You're right, but I rather not take my chances. We still can salvage and loot the surrounding houses though, I think we should thoroughly go through each house for essentials." Xenia nodded in agreement, she still has her trusty cart.

"Good idea, Delia and I didn't manage to scavenge the houses because we were too focused on hiding." That make sense, if it weren't for Nathan, Jyn and Tower, Pallet Town would still be infested with the infected Spearows. Before the infection, the Spearow flock was notoriously known for its territorial and aggressive behavior, the virus seemed to further amplified their worst traits. Still, with the imminent threat gone, Pallet Town should be much more safer compared to other settlements and small villages.

"Water should be no issue, I already installed the rain collection system." Ash spoke with the utmost pride and confidence, earning smiles from the two ladies he held dear. Secretly however, Ash prayed to Jirachi or any holy legendary that the rain collection system works and he didn't spend the entire afternoon fixing nothing. It's his first time doing something hands-on and he would look like an idiot if it fails.

"Mhmm, thank you for that. Our first priority is to establish connections with the outside world. Radio signal wave should still work and I know a thing or two when it comes to interfering and tampering radio frequencies. We can used it to reach out to other survivors." Securing a stable water supply, gathering food and materials, this was an incredibly familiar process to Ash, just like the simulations.

"I would personally like to visit the Viridian City Police Department, maybe I might find my firearms or supplies there." Xenia's determination was admirable but there was no way Ash is allowing her to go alone. There is no telling what lies on route to the city, dense forest and thickets provide perfect camouflage to the infected. Spearows and Pidgeys may choose to ambush from the skies above, these are encounters Ash had been through before, but not Xenia.

"I'll go with you Xenia." The policewoman shook her head, she does not want Ash to risk his life for her sake. Gun in hand, she was capable of fending for herself.

"You're sweet Ash but you've been through way too much, I can handle myself." He narrowed his eyes and placed Pikachu down on the table. Xenia does not know the horrors of the infected, Growlithe is the only pokemon she has and setting them on fire does not instantly kill them, instead the absolute fear instilled by burning zombies running towards them had overwhelmed trained soldiers before, reducing their aiming capacity and their ability to stay calm.

"No you can't, you don't know how the infected behave or where do they like to lurk for ambush. Not to mention we are travelling on foot now, if there is anyone who has experience taking them down, it's me." The two woman stay silent at Ash's harsh and blunt tone, he was not taking no for an answer. The young officer turned to Delia for help, hoping that her love and overprotectiveness for her son may helped tipped the scales, to her dismay Delia only remained silent. She gave an irritated grunt and slammed her clenched fists on the table.

"Ugh, fine! To think I need a minor to escort me on such a dangerous task." A wry smile crept on Ash's face, these two still treat him like a child.

"Age is not really a factor now when the world is up in flames." The haughty tone from Ash didn't drew the response he wanted, Xenia nursed a concerned expression and leaned forward with urgency in her voice.

"This is not all fun and games Ash." Of course he knew that, his life's were almost forfeited many times. His soft expression was mixed with firm unyieldingness, he would accompany Xenia to the ends of the earth if he needs to.

"I know, which is why I need to go with you." Xenia groaned at that reply, why oh why does he have to be so brave and foolish? Either one of then can be killed and Delia would be left alone! She turned to Delia who seemed uncharacteristically quiet, why is she not voicing her opposition to the idea? Her only son is risking his life to accompany a stranger whom she only known for a week!

"Okay, but I need your mother's approval first. Child or not, you're still her beloved son." Ash turned to his mother, he knew the look in her eyes that was severely conflicted. She gingerly reached for his hands and held it tightly, she knew Ash's devoted and chivalrous nature would not allow it. She had always raised him well, the complete opposite of his chauvinistic and irresponsible father.

"I don't want you to go Ash, I really want you to stay by my side, but I know you're strong and capable. Please look after Xenia and come back home to me in one piece okay?" The young man nodded with Pikachu giving a comforting squeak, both of them would looked after Xenia. Pikachu has been training it's electric attacks to be more precise and pinpoint against the infected humans, a direct attack to the heart, arteries or jugular is enough to take most of them out. The infected pokemon however, is a different story.

"I will mom, Makuhita you still stay here and stand guard." The round martial artist grunted, he would perform his duty to safeguard this premise and his master's mother. No wretched infected would ever reach the holy sanctums of their temple, all of them would clobbered and decimated under the might of fist and fury.

"Maku!" He grinned at the fighting type's enthusiasm, Makuhita's focus on defensive stances and techniques would serve them well for future confrontations. Xenia wasn't as keen to leave a powerful fighter behind, she knew it was for Delia's sake but the journey to Viridian is perilous and having a physical powerhouse actively protecting them is crucial.

"Are you sure Ash?" More than positive, Ash pointed at his starter and the cuddly Growlithe rolling around on the ground.

"We have Growlithe and Pikachu with us, we should be fine. Besides, I found something on the shed yesterday." The two ladies were curious over Ash's discovery, he excused himself for a brief moment and went to picked up his bag. Xenia raised her eyebrow when Ash pulled out a intriguing looking curved blade, resembling that of a crescent moon or a hook. The blade is single beveled, and it's thick sickle blade allows for efficient cutting, slicing, and hooking motions.

"A machete?" Ash nodded and flourished around the blade, there were some dents and grime on the edges but nothing too impactful to its cutting profile.

"Yeah its a billhook, used to cut grass and shrubbery but good for dealing with the infected too. It's a multipurpose tool, so we can carve wood and build stuff with it!" The sheer enthusiasm of a man holding a weapon in his hands cannot be understated. Xenia leaned forward and frowned momentarily when she eyed Pikachu, she doubts a shoddy billhook offers much when it comes to the infected Rattatas and Spearows.

"What about the infected pokemon?" Ash approached the table and sheathed the blade into his belt, he patted Pikachu on the head and rustled its fur.

"Leave it to Pikachu and Growlithe, we only take on the humans. Unless you have a gun, but I prefer it if we don't blow our magazine." The distinguished officer nodded, she agreed with his assessments wholeheartedly. Ammunition is scarce and even with a firearm, they would just draw unwanted attention. Her own firearm was lost to the wilds when she grappled and struggled with the infected. She shudder just to think about the encounter.

"Right, make sense, do you know the route to Viridian?" Utilizing his trusty phone turned pokedex, Ash type in the coordinates and was presented with a digital map of Kanto. The route was akin to Google maps, calculating the Estimated Time of Arrival on foot, 3 hours and 43 minutes, brilliant.

"Found it, let's start packing up. It's a long hike." Thus the preparations commence, each of the scavengers have their backpack firmly strapped to them. Water bottles, candy bars and even a first aid kit on Xenia's backpack, the two of them were ready for a long road ahead. Growlithe stretched its limbs and began to walk outside the lab, bathing in the morning sun that was warming it fiery body up.

"Ash, Xenia, please come back safe." The young son smiled and tightly tugged her hand, he never thought he would have to leave her again but this time was much shorter than their last departure.

"Mom, I will come back, don't worry." Xenia stood aside wordlessly, watching the mother and son pair sharing a heavy moment with one another. They would just be gone for a hours on end, nothing Ash has not done before, but perhaps treating every good bye like it is their last is a good thing.

"I know... come here." She pulled him into a hug, the sweaty scent of her son was comforting to Delia. She left a small kiss to his cheek and pulled back from a her embrace, thoroughly aware that Xenia was eyeing their interaction.

"I will be home soon mom, hopefully with a new friend." Delia simply nodded, she assumed the new friend is a potential survivor in Viridian City. The chances of finding a sane person in a desolate world is slim, but they will take any chance they can get. The emotional goodbyes were well met and the two finally started their journey to Viridian City. They walked passed the town center and the outskirts of the town, stretching by them were overgrown grass and shrubbery in dire need of trimming. Vehicles and mopeds were scattered across the streets, vividly reminding Ash that his beloved electric motorbike that served him so well was stranded in Vermillion City. Growlithe and Pikachu took pointmons and eyed their surroundings, any signs of rustling in the bushes and they would incinerate them to bits. The group finally reached the final gates of Pallet Town that stretched into a bypass, the congestion caused by cars crashing into one another when the infection spread was obvious. One of Ash's favourite aspects in video games is environmental storytelling, how props or set pieces of an room can tell you a story if you piece it all together. Blood splatter across the wall showing signs of struggle and violence, the broken glass of a second floor window showing signs of escape, and now a pile of cars crashing into one another forming a blockade, with the congested streets littered with luggage contents spilling out on the road.

"Ready Ash?" Xenia caught his reflective mood and grasped his hands, firmly linking his gloved hands to hers. He broke out of his pensive mood and nodded, no time to think of the innocent people screaming and running in fear.

"Ready officer." She beamed a smile and they started to hike their way through. Rather than taking the intercity highways, they took a path meant for walking and hiking, weaving through forests and woodlands. Ash used his trusty billhook to carve a path, cleaving and pruning off overgrown hedges and thickets that obstruct their paths, of course it was hassle but the alternative is asking their pokemon to set the whole forest on fire, which is less ideal.

"I must admit Ash, you really surprise me." Xenia grunted as she trailed up the inclined, she reached the very top of the hill and extended a hand to Ash who was struggling to maintain his footing on the steep slopes. He smiled and grabbed her hand, feeling Xenia's enormous strength pulling him up to her.

"Really why?" He barely could catch his breath, they have been hiking for half and hour now and they were slow down by the rough terrain and poorly maintained beaten path filled with holes and landfills. Despite his experience in hiking through forested areas, Ash was still struggling to keep the pace with the more fit and active police officer. The duo sat on a nearby rock to catch their breath and rest, they took their water bottles out drank the contents in earnest.

"Well I'm a rookie cop so this pandemic still have me quivering and scared, you on the other hand looked completely unfazed by it." The facade seemed to be effective, Ash gave a small smile and shook his head. The billhook was lodged deep onto a nearby tree stump, ready to be used at a moment's notice by yanking the handle.

"I won't say that, I just want to look confident and cool in front of my mom that's all. Don't want her to think I'm scared or second guessing myself. When I went to our house and I couldn't find her, I just broke..." Xenia lowered her head, she couldn't imagine what Ash was going through when he thought his mother is no longer here with him. She caught his horrified gaze that absentmindedly stared at the grass dancing to the tune of wind, they should not dwell on topic such as these. What matters now is that they are together, safe and sound.

"I understand." Ash snapped out of his trance and nodded to Xenia, he had to be strong for her too. Xenia has been like an older sister figure to him now, the cool tomboy sister who would look after him. He always have a deep admiration for Officer Jennies, not only they are sweet and kind but they kickass too! So having Xenia actively looking after him and making sure he is okay was a nice feeling. Their brief rest ended abruptly when a bolt of lightning branched across the sky, it seems that it was about to rain soon so it was their cue to get on with it.

"You sure we are going the right path?" Xenia voiced her concern when Ash seemed a little loss, she had heard from Delia that her son's sense of direction was next to nothing. It's cute when you hear it as a story, but when your lives firmly depends on him, well Xenia was less pleased by the results. Why she entrusted him to lead them was a rookie mistake on her part but it was nice to see him leading the charge.

"Positive, if anything goes wrong you can blame the phone." Xenia rolled her eyes over the excuse, how Ash can say that sentence with a strict face was fascinating.

"Or the owner of it." Ash ignored her sarcastic jab and continue to lead with the utmost confidence, all he have to do is follow the highlighted route and they would be there in no time, it's just that well- there is a lot of twist and turns they have to go and Ash must have the foresight to choose a route less travelled by to prevent the chance of running into infected. In other words, the damn pokenav system keeps rerouting every 10 minutes and Ash is struggling to navigate the way to Viridian. The walk to Viridian was uneventful, no sign of wild life scurrying around or any infected, just the sound of wind rustling the trees or the running river still brimming with life.

"So uh, tell me about yourself Xenia." She raised her eyebrows over how awkward Ash is, didn't he asked this before?

"This again?" Ash slowed down his pace and walked side by side to her, his eyes darting to the pokedex and her from time to time.

"Tell me about personal stuff, like your hobbies, movies and the sort." She placed a finger underneath her chin and tapped it lightly, where does she begin? Her life isn't terribly exciting and her hobbies are fairly normal and tamed compared to a young man like Ash who lives in an exciting and bustling city.

"Hmm well I like taking walks, working out and eating donuts while on stakeout." The stereotypical scene of a police officer eating donuts while in their cars piqued Ash's curiosity.

"Really?" She chuckled and waved him off, she wish!

"Haha no, I never done any stakeout before, but yes I like taking walks by the evening and working out. Helps keep me active and in shape, an active body is an active mind!" That explains why she is so fit, Ash never really hit the gym before, too expensive for the monthly membership and he had to sign under his mother's name. Most of his youth were spent hanging with friends, studying or playing video games. A memory that he would forever cherish.

"I never really done any exercise or head to the gym before, since I'm always studying or playing video games." It was impressive that Ash managed to survive this long, but judging by his physique, Ash seemed fairly active. The way he climbed over terrain and chopped down branches showed his finesse with the weapons at least, he had a basic grasp of body coordination and hacking stuff.

"Now might a be a good time to start working out. We're counting on ya after all." Ash blinked at Xenia's teasing grin, did she really meant that in earnest or was she joshing around?

"Really?"

"Mhmm, you're basically the leader of our group." Pikachu find it amusing that Ash have a hard time accepting this, for the past few days he practically decided the list of activities and tasks they must do. He was essentially leading the group before even realizing it, even when they first met up with the boys, they all followed Ash to the school compound until the bus to the airport showed up. Ash wasn't a natural born leader, but he was nurturing one.

"I won't say that! I just want to help out everyway we can, no need to establish a leader." Xenia pushed away the overgrown grass with a long branch and continued to walk forward.

"Well as our group grows bigger, we need a system of sorts, be it a council or a hierarchal system." Ash would personally vouch for a council where everyone's ideas, input and opinion are weighed in and considered. However, that realistically only works in small groups rather than big ones, something which Ash would prefer. A small but tight community guarantees that everyone depends on each other, and they can keep track of everyone's activities and well-being, no ones gets left out nor would they turn on each other.

"We can think about that later once we find enough people, but honestly its- hard. I've been on the road for almost a week, I only saw one friendly face, the rest of the survivors were bandits or assholes. Only the people in Vermillion city were nice but I doubt they would want to leave the safety and comfort of a fortified city." Xenia sighed, if they do find people camping out in the wilds, chances are they would either rob them or have them at gunpoint. Worse still, women would become unfortunate victim to slavery and abuse, scummy people would not doubt take advantage of the situation. Though something tells her that Ash would not take kindly to anyone who threatened to her dignity or life, the young man's overprotective nature might be a line that few people dare to cross.

"I see, I suspected that much." Ash merely grunted, Pikachu and I are always alert when they meet potential new people. Their steps finally took them to the outer layers of Viridian City, with no Gates or control point guarding the prosperous city, it allowed the infected to pour and flood the city's outskirts. Standing over a hill that allowed them to oversee the city, Xenia was surprised at the sight of black smoke bellowing from the ruined buildings, a scene reminiscent of those post apocalyptic films.

"We're here, seems like the outskirts of the city was hit the hardest." With no active walls or fortifications, Viridian City's lax law enforcement allowed people to travel freely, but it also allowed organized crime to take place within the slums and poorer neighborhoods. The Kalosian narrowed her eyes and held Ash's hand, using the long tree branch as a hiking stick. They descended down from the overgrowth and entered the outskirts, the abandoned bypass, highway and railroads were a barren sight. Take away the humans who built it and all you have left is wasted infrastructure and purposeless buildings, devoid of any value or life. They passed by diners, convenience stores and car repair shops, the red brick buildings had a rustic charm to it, but the sight of bullet shells and cartridges scattered across the streets sour the mood.

"Military has been here too, or at least there's gun fire." Xenia took the gun out of her holster, she pulled Ash to her and held his forearm. They stood behind the red brick buildings that seems to be a small town bank, the ATM outside of the building had blood splattered across the terminal. Xenia narrowed her eyes at the pried open metal doors of the premise and sight of pokedollar scattered across the floor, seems like people took advantage of the commotion and robbed the place dry.

"Stay close to me Ash." The suburbs of Viridian looked plain and normal, rows of residential house in gray and white building stretched along the streets. The nearby playground were devoid of kids running around with parents watching over them, instead makeshift bonfires using trash cans were seen littered around the place. Cars that were no longer functioning barricading some doors, with markers and graffiti spraying across the walls to show signs of infected. Sidewalk trees still looked perfect abundant and in fact thriving, probably due to the lack of pollution from cars and automobiles. Nature seemed to be taking back it's roots by firmly planting the vines across buildings, some had moss growing, others have overgrown grass sprouting out. The Last of Us vibe is strong here and Ash always wondered how long does it take for nature to complete retake civilization as a whole.

"Hmm, seems like not all of Viridian is taken." Xenia sudden bitter tone alerted Ash, they hid behind a fence gate between alleyways as the sound of a moving car caught their attention. Soon enough a black hummer car drove past them with people holding assault rifles and automatic weapons, their black balaclava didn't seemed to be military grade, in fact they looked like survivors who managed to hold out against the infected. It seems while parts of the city has fallen, not every district has bow to the whims and fancy of the virus.

"Parts of the city still stands." She nodded at Ash's assessments, the gates welcoming the vehicle were opened by their own member and gangs. Intuition told her they weren't good or friendly people and they are most likely apprehended or shot on sight if they try to get close to them.

"Tight security too, they have cameras and soldiers everywhere." Some them were wearing black berets with gray bases, they don't look professional trained but nor were they complete amateurs. Whatever is the case, it was best that the two of them sneak out of here as soon as possible

"Let's leave Ash." The Pikachu trainer nodded but just as they were about to leave, another vehicle went pass them, this time was truck with a big red R insignia spray painted on the back of the trailer. The two humans widened their eyes at the logo, there was no mistaking it.

"Is that-"

"Team Rocket, damn it! I knew it." The hush but harsh anger laced in Xenia's tone concerned Ash, he pulled her away from the wall and lead her to a small corner of the alleyway where it is damp and dark. The threat of Team Rocket controlling a city is huge, a notorious international crime group that deals in illegal pokemon trading, black market activities, extortion, terrorism and kidnapping pokemon, they are fond of conducting cruel experiments on pokemon just to further their nefarious agenda. Their reason and motto? Pokemon are for profits, no price is too high and no act is too cruel, pokemon are meant to serve humanity at their own expense.

"You knew the Team Rocket was here?" Xenia sighed and crossed her arms, she had her suspicions but whispers and rumors flying around that the entire Viridian City Police Department are all under the command of its wicked leader. Corruption and deceit at is highest form, the police force has been compromised and they do not serve the public or the people, they turn a blind eye of any Rocket activity. Every Jenny that has been stationed in Viridian City has been deferred or transferred, included Xenia herself.

"Within the task force, there were rumors that Team Rocket have base of operations in Viridian and Celadon, seems like they took control of the city." Pikachu drooped its ears, he was hoping that the infection would have wiped Team Rocket out. Seems like evil prospers in times of difficulties, while good people are made to suffer for it. Xenia caught Pikachu and Growlithe crestfallen expression and patted both of their heads, she dearly wish she could do something but for now, they have to prioritize their own safety first.

"We best avoid them, the precinct is down this way." Though he harbored hatred for the crime group, Ash wonders why Team Rocket decided to come out of their shadows to control a city? Even if they were the puppeteer manipulating the strings of Viridian from the beginning, it seems odd for them to make a public appearance. Perhaps they sense an oppurtunity to establish themselves and challenge the League's authority and leadership? Bah, he could think of it later, right now they should head straight to the station. Slip and slide, the Pallet Town residences walked down the other streets, away from the checkpoint and fortifications. The outskirt police stations is relatively small than the one in the big city, so it came to no surprise that it wasn't prioritized when it come to an outbreak. Xenia tightened her coat as the breeze of the wind blew by, they better reach town before the downpour comes.

"Is that a pokemart?" She halted her steps when Ash sounded surprised by the sight of a pokemart, as if he found the promised land itself. He firmly held Pikachu in his arms and found himself smiling at the sight of a working pokemart, maybe they might find pokeballs here! Xenia was less excited but she must admit finding a working mart is surprising.

"Yes why?"

"I need to look for pokeballs, it's the only way to give immunity to our pokemon!" Xenia blinked and shook her head, her mind processing what Ash said before the realization hit her.

"Huh? Pokemon caught by trainers are immune to the virus?" He scratched the back of his neck, right he had forgotten to tell them about this. Honestly he had omitted that part out of his memory simply because they weren't in a situation that warrants him to tell them.

"Yes, Pikachu and Makuhita were bitten but they are okay. Your Growlithe is okay too see?" Xenia gasped and went to her Growlithe's limping leg, on closer inspection it was a claw mark. She stroke her partner's pokemon fur lightly, does the virus spread through scratch too? She frowned at the potential infection but felt relief that their pokemon are immune to the virus, it was welcoming news and while the biological reason behind it is not clear, she would interrogate Ash later.

"I never knew that, this is a game changer! Why didn't you tell us?" Ash assumed a sheepish a smile and waved his hands frantically.

"Honestly, I have forgotten about it, was busy doing other things, sorry." Xenia sighed at his guilt-ridden look, she can't really blame him, he has been busy the entire day attending to more important issues, it must have slipped the back of his mind. She gently placed a hand on his shoulder and pulled him to her.

"It's alright Ash, but tell me when we reach home okay?" He nodded, he would explain everything to his mother and her. Without a moment to waste, Pikachu and Growlithe enter the store and and surveyed the front, once they deemed clear Ash and Xenia walked in. As expected the place was thoroughly wiped clean but there are occasional pokeblocks, paracetamol and vitamins on the shelf. The young man's eyes lit up at the sight of pokeballs on the shelves, all of them were empty and had the official stamp of Silph co on it. Counterfeit pokeballs are notorious in black markets and while they work identical to official ones, pokemon caught by these pokeballs are less happy and grouchier as the environment within the capsule are not tailored to the individual pokeballs needs.

"I found three pokeballs, nice!" Xenia giggled at Ash's enthusiasm, she knew being trainer and embarking on epic pokemon journey was his dream, so perhaps this was helping him living some of his fantasy. She eyed the aisle and shelves, plenty of preserve food and condiments like peanut butter and vinegar.

"Let's take the rest of the stuff, ooh look toothpaste! We need that for oral hygiene." Their oral hygiene is crucial and given there is a lack of dentist in a zombie apocalypse, the protection of their enamel and gums is important. Household items like baking soda should be prioritize and Xenia was keen on stocking as much as stuff as possible. She hummed a tune as she placed the items in her bag when she heard a growl from her Growlithe, earning the attention of everyone in the room. Before she could pull her gun out and asses the situation, Ash flourished his blade and kicked open the storage room door where Growlithe was aiming at.

"Chanse!" The focused expression on Ash's face softened immediately when an adorable Chansey stared with him while shaking in fear. The poor thing looked absolutely scared but the bright blue eyes shine true as always. He lowered his blade instantly and Pikachu assumed chief role as mediator between the two. No glowing red eyes or sign of agitation, this Chansey seemed to be safe.

"Hello, sorry that I scared you." The oval pokemon cooed when Ash patted its round head as an apology. The docile pink egg pokemon was rare in these parts, they are mostly seen with their partner Nurse Joys. A moving figure behind the metal shelves earned the attention of Pikachu, its ear twitched and began to ran straight to it. The sound of shoes sliding against the floor echoed the storage room but Ash was less alarmed given Chansey seemed to be safe throughout its entirety in the room

"A-Ah!" Ash pressed the light switch of the storage room and was met with the sight of a young Nurse Joy huddling in the corner. The young man sheathed his blade and slowly walked towards her, squatting down at a distance from the rose haired beauty. Pikachu squeaked and nuzzled against her legs, gradually warming her up as she opened her eyes and uncurled herself. Her blue eyes met Pikachu's friendly smile and her own Chaney's happy nod, telling her that they are friends!

"H-Hello." Her eyes met Ash and Xenia's, she keenly recognized a Jenny's feature and felt completely safe at the sight of a dutiful officer.

"Officer Jenny?" The young woman smiled and knelt down, tugging the nurse's hand. She recognized this lass, when she was first transferred to Viridian City, it was this Joy who showed her around town and personally escorted her to Pallet Town! Though they never met again, Xenia never forgot her distinct pink high ponytail hair look and yellow earrings.

"Yes, it's me Xenia. Rosa right?" The nurse was puzzled, they have met before?

"We met before?" The Kalosian nodded and helped her up, with Ash leaning against the metal shelves of the storage room with his arms crossed. He didn't expect to meet a Nurse Joy here, but having a trained medical officer is invaluable in a crisis scenario like this. He eyed her attire, the standard Nurse Joy uniform but with some blood stains on it, she managed to survive this long by hiding in the storage room it seems.

"The Officer Jenny who lost her way around Viridian City and you need to escort her to Pallet Town? That's me! Pretty embarrassing first day too." Rosa's eyes light up and held Xenia's hand, she does remember that day! She was doing her usual task of inventory checking when a rookie Officer Jenny stepped in the halls of the Pokemon Center all confused and lost. She took it upon herself to help the rookie cop and eventually drew a hand drawn map for her, that was good day, a few laughs and pleasantries too.

"My goodness I do remember! Oh thank Lugia you are well, this city is- it's horrible." Xenia patted her back and led her to the counter front. The breeze of air blowing through the front door keenly reminded them that it was still monsoon season. Free from the stuffy confines of the storage room, Rosa breathed a sigh and leaned on the counter with Chansey huddling to her side for warmth and comfort. Xenia sat on the plastic stool and drag it slightly forward to the counter, pushing away the rubbish of the ground.

"What happened here?" Rosa took a deep breath, recounting the events in her mind.

"When the outbreak happened everyone was waiting for instruction from our major but to our surprise, our gym leader Giovanni came back. He is always absent and never in the city but the fact he is here gave us hope, then- then Team Rocket members came and we realized that-"

"Giovanni is the part of Team Rocket." Ash almost lost his composure hearing the blunt statement from Xenia, a gym leader is part of Team Rocket? Well that explains how their flourish and thrive under the radar for so long! But Rosa wasn't done yet, she shook her head and place a hand in front of her chest.

"Not only he is part of Team Rocket, he is the leader of it! He took advantage of the situation and establish himself on top. Those who oppose his rule were thrown out and, I didn't want to serve someone as horrible as him. They even try to take our pokemon from us! But thankfully Chansey managed to sneak out." As if the infected weren't enough, a potential crime gang rising up to power and seizing control of a city is disturbing. Pallet Town is within 30 minutes drive from Viridian, and if they decide to pay their town a visit, there was no doubt they would try to take control of the small town to began their conquest. Fortunately, the roads are filled with debris, broken down cars and tree, it would take forever for them to excavate a path through on their vehicles. Ash crossed his arms and stared at Rosa, there was no way she could survive alone. He gave a side glance to Xenia, telepathing his thoughts and intentions to her with a mere look. Xenia seemed to understood the memo and gave an approving smile, they need every friendly soul they can get.

"I see, well if you don't mind you can follow us to Pallet Town." The young nurse's brief smile turned into reluctant confusion, a small town like Pallet would not withstand the onslaught of the infection. Only one person needs to be infected before the virus rapidly spreads across the community and that is not counting the natural Rattatas and Spearows that stalks the bushes and creeks.

"I-Isn't it destroyed for good? It's crawling with Spearows! No one goes there now!" The officer shook her head and swung an arm around Ash's shoulders, pulling him towards her as if he was her little brother.

"Not anymore, it's a long story but it's completely safe. You have Ash to thank here." The teenager was not expecting the praise, as far as Ash knows, the soldiers did everything while he frantically looked for his mother as if he was a kid lost in a mall.

"Huh? Why me I didn't do anything." The turquoise haired beauty narrowed her eyes and flickered his forehead lightly.

"Take a compliment for once Ash." Rosa chuckled at their interaction, she eyed the two's attire, relatively clean and properly dressed. Their two pokemon looked healthy and groomed, content and safe in with their trainers. It is often said that you can judge a person's character based on how well and happy their pokemon is, given Pikachu and Growlithe were nuzzling against their trainer's legs and leaning on them like a comfy pillow, it was safe to say they were good people. Besides, her options are severely limited, might as well take the risk.

"Hehe, you two are good folks, of course we would come along, we have no way to go anyway." The oval shaped pokemon welcomed the squeaks and barks from her fellow pokemon, finally friends! Pikachu and Growlithe were eager to welcome another pokemon to their fold, a Chansey's eggs are said to be the most delicious thing known to pokemon!

"Is Chansey caught by you?" Rosa blinked at Ash's peculiar question and nodded, she reached for her pokeball in her pouch and pulled it out.

"Yes I have her pokeball, why?" He smiled at patted the healer pokemon's head, another pokemon immune to the virus.

"Let's just say pokemon owned by trainers are immune to the virus." Rosa clasped her hands and rushed towards Ash's side, her deep blue eyes shimmered brightly with joy and hope. The thought of her Chansey turning into a bloodthirsty monster was too much for her to bear, b-but now knowing that her Chansey would be spared by the horrors, well she is at peace now!

"Really!?" Ash felt his face flushed by the sheer proximity between them, the way her eyes glistened and her clenched fists place above her ample breast, she looked really cute like that. But the young man knew this wasn't the time or place to gawk at girls, they need to remain focus on the mission.

"We explain later, come follow us." And thus another resident had joined Pallet Town, they exited the pokemart and made their way to the police station with cars and barricades positioned outside the precinct. The stench of decay and rotting corpses made them gag in disgust, the withering corpse and putrid smell was unbearable but they pushed through the fetid smell and enter the suppose safe haven. Dried blood splattered across the floor with nightsticks, shelves and phones thrown on the ground. Scattered across the dark hallways and reception desk are the bodies of the human infected, some where beyond recognition while others were- well best not describe the gruesome and horrific nature of them.

"I remember coming here for the first time and being so excited." Ash squeezed Xenia's hand, her voice trailed off as her eyes drooped in sadness. She vividly remember how friendly everyone was here, giving a rookie cop like her a cheer and pat or two. Everyone was supportive and kind, now they are all gone.

"I'm sorry Xenia." She smiled and squeezed Ash's hand back.

"It's okay, I didn't make much friends here but I can imagine if I did, this place would have been a nightmare for me." The young man picked up her hesitation in forming emotional connections and bonds with others, maybe that is why she asked the question earlier. But pushing people away is not healthy for anyone's mental health and Ash is determined to let Xenia know he is always here for her. The young cop pushed her personal sentiments aside and started to survey around the armory, as expected all of the weapons and tactical gear were all gone.

"Armory is gone, figures. Find anything Ash?" The sound of his rummaging was rather loud if not comical, Rosa stood close to Xenia as she felt uneasy with the posters and the cardboard cutout of police officers posing. It didn't take long for Ash to poked his head out of the door, but he seemed to be carrying something? With a heave and ho, he pulled out a familiar looking black suit that would suit them well for their survival.

"Riot suit?" Designed to protect its users from pepper spray, blunt objects and stray rocks. A riot suit is the perfect zombie proof armor, well next to full plated armor at least. It's mobile, not cumbersome and impervious to any petty attacks or bites.

"Perfect protection against zombies don't you think? It's built to protect its wearer from blunt trauma and scuffles." Xenia smiled at their lucky find, she took the suit from him and placed it against his back, measuring the shoulder length and width. It reminded Ash of his clothing shopping trips with his mom where she would always place t-shirts and jackets against his neck or back to measure its size.

"It is, it's around your size too." Pikachu cheered at the find, his trainer was one step closer to a zombie killing machine! It could imagine his trainer taking hordes of infected humans and even pokemon, expertly maneuvering around the field by slicing their jugular and head with his tactical knife and unleashing a flurry of kicks to their jaw. A vivid imagination but one which Pikachu wish it becomes reality.

"I wish I can find one for you girls, hold on." Xenia shook her head gave the padded armor back to Ash.

"It's okay Ash, you can keep that one. Riot suit for women is non-existent, keep it." He frowned at the news, armor is still something they desperately need. It was time to put that sewing kit to good use now, find a few leather scraps and shoulder guards and they are practically set, gambeson would be a fine choice too, literally just multiple layers of clothing sewn together to soften the impact of bites and blows.

"I see, hmm we still need to find suitable protection for all of you. It's life saving." Xenia tousled Ash's hair, the grumpy and serious expression on him was endearing. He genuine concern for them would always be touching if not hilarious.

"We can worry that later, let's leave while we still can." Packed up with their belongings and a newfound friend, the company of four make the painstaking journey back to Pallet Town. The gray clouds above flashed branches of lighting, rapturous thunder began to boom at every turn, the dreaded monsoon season had reared its ugly head.

"You okay?" Xenia eyed a panting and struggling Ash, his arms were wobbling from carrying the heavy riot suit, it was 10 pound but given the long distance of travel, it was expected that Ash's muscles would give out soon. The young man put up a brave face and nodded, but his burning muscles and shaking body betrayed him.

"Y-Yeah it's pretty tiring carrying this." She sighed and took the equipment from him, effortless holding the suit in place while placing the helmet directly on top of Ash's head. The transparent face shield took some time to get used to, but Ash can clearly see a smirking Xenia and a dead looking Rosa clinging onto her Chansey as if she was a walking stick.

"Let me do it then, I'm stronger than ya." Ash did not have the strength to carry the gear or argue. He turned to the struggling nurse and trudged his foot forward to her, her shoe heels were not made to dirt trails or outdoor hikes like these

"Rosa you okay?" She stiffened up immediately and nodded, her soles and feet are killing her right now.

"O-Oh I'm fine, just a little sored. My shoes aren't made for this." Ash have just the remedy for this, he rummage through his bag and pulled out a plastic bag containing a pair of sandals. Originally it was meant to replace his sneakers whenever he walk across shallow waters and rivers. Though it's not made for long hikes, it was certainly better than high heels.

"Here you can use my sandals." Rosa eyes gleamed at the sight and took her heels off, she slipped into the sandals and felt instantly comfortable with them. She didn't had the chance to change her footwear or even clothes when the infection started, all the Team Rocket members were so quick to takeover the city that she only focused on getting away.

"Thank you Ash." He gave a thumbs up and a cheeky grin, anything for a friend.

"Don't worry Rosa, I have an extra pair of sneakers at my house." The young nurse smiled at Xenia's generosity, she was glad she met Ash and Xenia. At the mention of the officer's house, Ash leaned towards Xenia and pondered about it states.

"Its your house okay?" Considering her house has been broken in, belongings stolen and her bedroom ransacked, yeah it was in a pretty good shape.

"Well it's broken in but surprisingly most of my things are still there. I'm tempted to bring my stuff and decorate my room but its a waste of time." Ash gasped at how quick Xenia was to dismiss the idea, he was no means an avid interior designer but he firmly believes a little charm and personality on their room really brightens up the place.

"Why? I think it's awesome to decorate your room, makes it more homely no?" Xenia didn't think so, practicality should triumph over all forms of personal taste and feelings. The time spent on decorating their room could be use for other more useful endeavors.

"Ash we are in survival situation where time and resources are scarce, we shouldn't waste our time doing pointless things that doesn't provide value." The young man disagreed wholeheartedly, cold boring practicality while important, wears thin over time. A little decorating never hurt anyone, the mundane white walls of the lab can only excite you that much.

"I don't think that's the case, making yourself more at home so you feel comfortable with your environment, doesn't that remind you of better times? A little of your old life is still here despite all the horrible things we see. I think its important to be prepared, but it's even more important to be reminded of the good times too so we don't lose our frickin minds. I think decorating our rooms even in a horrible situation, makes it just more bearable." The awkward silence of Rosa and Xenia staring right at him quickly made Ash rubbed the back of his neck, who was he to tell Xenia what she should do with her own room? He averted his gaze and faked a cough, hoping to break the tension of the two ladies just staring at him.

"Uh sorry, I didn't mean to lecture you, l-let's get going." The small smile plastered on Xenia's face soothed his worries for the moment, she slowly walked towards him and leaned forward just slight.

"No Ash, you're right. It's important to focus on the brighter and fun things of life too when we have the chance, I will redecorate my room once we have check off the essentials. I'm quite the interior designer myself." Seeing his enthusiastic nod warmed Xenia's heart, she likes decorating her home whenever she could afford something nice. Be it wallpapers, posters, cups or houseplants, a little something to spice up her small room is enough to keep it interesting.

"Cool! I would like to see it." The idea of a strapping young man entering her room brought more excitement to Xenia than she cared to admit. She pondered if Ash would ever have his own room, he didn't mind sharing it with his mother but a growing adolescent boy should be entitled to his own privacy.

"Heh I bet you would." The pink haired nurse admired the interaction between the two, this would definitely be a fun and sweet experience. A far fry from the bleak outlook she had hours before, being in the company of good people really changes your perspective and view of things. She glanced downward at the sandals Ash gave her, maybe getting to know her saviors wouldn't be a bad start.

"That's very sweet of you Ash, you are a student at Saffron Trainer Academy right? Can you tell me about your life there? I always wondered what its like studying in a trainer school!" Pikachu leaped onto his master's shoulders as he began to retell the story of his youth. It glanced at Xenia's intrigued and curious expression, clearly both ladies were interested about Ash's past before he made the decisive journey back to Pallet.

"Mhmm, well where do I begin? It all started when..."

---

Tired, exhausted, and utterly drained his capacity for any basic human function, Ash plopped down on the bed like log to water. He buried his face onto the warm comfy pillows, the physical strain on his legs from walking for so much had render them jello. He sighed when Pikachu poked his cheeks, clearly the electric type was amused by his trainer's behavior.

"I am tired." He slowly sat upright and tested the weight and firmness of the mattress. After returning home with the ladies, his mother was quick to welcome Rosa into their community by giving her the customary Delia hug. The young nurse quickly fitted in with everyone and a room was given to her, making Pallet Town that much livelier. One issue Ash took to heart was the fact all of them were still sleeping on a mattress directly on the floor, a thicker futon of sorts. The biggest problem of a mattress on floor is the potential for mold and dust to gather, so the young man utilized his handy dandy tools to slowly and methodically move the bed frames from the other homes outside of the laboratory boundaries. By that, Ash meant asking Makuhita to tear down and bulldoze the walls of the houses down just so they have enough space to hoist the entire bed frame without needing to spend hours dismantling them piece by piece. Why? Because Ash can't be bothered. On the plus side, there's no need to worry about property damage in a zombie apocalypse.

"Ash?" The sound of his mother muffled through the door, he quickly gave a warm greeting of his own and soon enough she entered the room. Her yellow blouse and soft pink cardigan was her favourite casual wear, but Ash dearly missed the orange sundress that hugged her curves so perfectly. During a vacation to Alola with his mother, a 14-year-old Ash Ketchum was in for an awakening at the sight of his mother wearing the comfy yet elegant summer dress that showed a fair amount of skin and scooped up her assets. The way the fabric cling onto her figure as she laid on the beach lounger with her exotic peach margarita in hand keenly make him realized just how much his mom was a MILF. It didn't help that multiple beachgoers and jocks tried to chat up his mom, only for the young lad to step in to assert his dominance and authority as the Ketchum son. The sheer icy glare and unimpressed expression scared away many of the men who tried to woo his mother, much to her amusement and delight. He firmly linked her hands to his and pulled her away from them, those who were persistent and got a little too handy with Delia felt the wrath of the mighty Pikachu and his red pouches cackling sparks. No one was harm of course, unless you count their ego that is.

"Hi mom, what's is it?" Delia smiled at her son's sitting position, hands wrapped around the pillow and chin above it, Ash's looked thoroughly relax and content in their shared bed. Her son had left dinner early after proclaiming being thoroughly drained, naturally she was worried and came to check up on him.

"Nothing just want to check up on you, you left dinner pretty quickly." She sat on the bed before realizing the different elevation of it. She glanced at mattress and pleasantly surprised by the extra pair of legs it grew, they weren't sleeping on the floor anymore? Where did the bed frame came from?

"I'm sorry, I was really exhausted." Ash's words trailed off as he observed his mother's bewildered expression, she always looked cute when she is confused.

"Its okay honey I know- uh where did the bed came from?" He chuckled and leaned his head on her lap, catching the young mother by surprised but she was quick to adjust to his antics nevertheless. She placed a hand on his messy hair and stroke it gently, feeling it tickling her palm and forearm.

"Oh yea, while you were tending to the garden and starting a farm I thought I made myself useful, that's why I'm so tired hehe. Don't worry, I found the frames for Xenia and Rosa too." Ash was wise enough to leave out certain crucial details on how they got the bed frame out through the tiny doors. Makuhita's raw strength remains supreme. Delia softened a look and stroke his hair, she really admired how considerate and thoughtful Ash can be.

"What would I do without you?" It was a rhetorical question but Ash likes to entertain his mother, he placed a hand on his chin and assumed a thinking pose before jokingly answered.

"Hmm maybe you would have been a successful CEO?" Delia scoffed at the idea, being a career minded businesswoman would certainly be one of her goals, but the soulless corporate grind to the top and revolving your life around your careers is just dreadful. Life should be filled with hopes and dreams, something to look for or someone to care for. Ash had always been her motive and reason to work hard, she had promotion after promotion because of her desire to provide a better life for her son.

"Don't say that, what good is being successful when I don't have someone to love and cherish?" The sudden loving statement from her made Ash flushed, he averted his gaze from her before shyly stare back at her amber eyes. She smiled softly at him and caressed his cheeks, drawing him into state of drowsiness.

"Can we stay like this?" Delia lips curled upwards at her son's murmurs, he looked so relax and content on her lap. Many fond memories of Ash's childhood was seizing every oppurtunity to cuddle and stay up with her. Playing puzzle games, board games or tag, Delia had always been prevalent in Ash's life. Some may call it molly-coddling but she had always been mindful to allow Ash to grow independently, allowing him to form his own friendships and interests had always been Delia's intentions. No, she personally believed in being there for him, provide him the love and warmth a child rightfully deserves by giving him unwavering support but also being firm with him.

"Of course sweetheart." Pikachu squeaked at the sight of mother son duo, and curled up comfortable on his makeshift bed near the windows, giving him a clear view of the outside world. Any threats that are intruding from the outskirts of Pallet Town would be first noticed via Pikachu's sharp senses, allowing the electric mouse to alert everyone else in the lab.

"What's the next step commander?" Ash chuckled at his mother's mocking military salute tone, Xenia and her was serious on referring him as the leader of the group huh?

"Hmm well I think it's time we distribute task and form a job system." For Ash, forming a job system would be perfect now they have four people. In terms of specialized skills, Rosa is definitely the most experienced in the field of medicine and healthcare, the so called healer of the group that you often need in a crisis scenario setting. Xenia would be the security guarantor of the group, overseeing their defenses and ensuring their pokemon is on tip top condition. As for his mother, she could be in charge of daily affairs, keeping stock and ensuring what provisions and supplies they need whenever they go out for loot missions.

"Like delegating work and task to people with the relevant skill?" He nodded vigorously to his mother's question.

"Yeah, I was thinking that you can be in charge of housekeeping and organizing, Xenia can be in charge of defense and training, Rosa can be in charge of tending to our wounds and looking after our pokemon. I can be in charge of scavenging or building stuff." His building and scavenging skill is second to none, a whole week of travelling through sparse lands and roadside stops had honed his ability to search loot quickly and efficiently, all he needs now is a bigger backpack.

"Hmm not a bad idea Ash, I'm impressed." He beamed a smile at his mother's tone of pride.

"I just approach it like how I play my resource management games." Years of playing RTS and strategy games had trained Ash for this very moment. Delia however was less pleased by his reasoning and poked his forehead.

"This is just you trying to justify your late night gaming activities." The amount of times Delia's calm novel reading night had been interrupted by her son's periodic screams and curses to his online friends was uncountable. She used to reprimand him for it but overtime she rationalized it as a way to know if her son was still alive and kicking.

"Maybe." Their banter was short lived when the sound of torrential rain pouring from the heavens started to batter their roofs. Delia smiled and leaned forward to get a good view on the windows, she had recently planted a few crops from the seed packets looted from the farming barns and sheds, so she was looking forward to the rain.

"Ooh its finally raining now, took Kyogre long enough." Ash nodded slowly, feeling relax on the warm thighs of his mother. The cold crisp air of the rainy night and the warm motherly embrace of his mother, name a better duo. His brief moment of enjoyment however halted immediately when he realized what rain meant, water.

"Wait it is? I need to check on the rain collection system!" Before she could protest, her son bolted out of the room, clad in his shorts and t-shirt. She sighed at his antics and followed along, hoping that he had the hindsight or common sense really, to bring an umbrella.

"Ash wait- oh dear." The sight of her son cheering in the rain made the young mother sigh. Though it was 7:39 PM, the miracle of modern technology and running electricity illuminated the surrounding area and laboratory. So she wasn't too concern about her son's safety, his susceptibility to falling ill however, was a different story.

"It works! Haha, it works!" The young man watched in amazement as water gush out of the pipes into the barrel drums, filling it up rapidly as the water level rises. There were five barrels all aligned with side by side with one long tube connecting all of them, so if the first barrel is filled completely to the brim, the excess water would directly flow into the second and the process repeats itself. An ingenious device that relies on good old physics and fluid dynamics. Still like any technology or device it can be improved, leakage and potential for spillover remains a challenge.

"Hmm, I think I can set up a filtration device by using rocks and minerals, but for now sky juice is good as it can get." Basic camping courses in high school had taught Ash the basics of a filtration system used by their ancestors or hikers. Grass, rocks, gravel, sand and charcoal can be used to filter out debris, dirt and rubbish while fire kills off most pathogens and bacteria. For now, rainwater at the country side is 100% safe compared to the acid rain in urban cities. The young man mused over his thought before he let out a loud sneeze, making him realized he is thoroughly soaked by standing in open like an idiot. He swiftly went back to the laboratory and was met with the displeased look of his mother crossing her arms.

"Ash you're soaking wet." He scratched the back of his neck and let out a sheepish smile, the puddle forming beneath him drew a sigh from his mother.

"Oops, uh I haven't shower yet so it's fine." She rolled her eyes at that excuse and pulled his sleeves, he needs to get into the shower immediately if not he would fall sick. Even though they have a Nurse Joy and a Chansey by their side, Delia is still not taking the risk of sickness lightly.

"Geez, come here." His mother led him to the bathroom, already filled with the basics of shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss and abundance of dry towels. In some ways, it looked more extravagant and luxurious than the one back at home, this shower room is huge! He switched on the faucet and watch the cold running waters flowing through, pipes and drainage still seems to be working.

"Showers are still running, cool." The sound of clothes rustling behind him and the door shutting was promptly ignored by the young man, his mother had probably left the showers to give him some privacy. Hot water would be fantastic right now but given how power intensive heating up electrical appliances are, it was best avoided. Ash nodded at the neat and tidy bathroom tiles, his mother certainly had scrubbed the place clean. Not a spec of dust or water can be seen between the tiles and the place was properly disinfected.

"You outdone yourself mom." He murmured to himself as his words echoed the bathroom.

"Thank you sweetie." Bloodstreams froze at that very moment, he turned to the side and nearly did a backflip at the sight of his mother in her black undergarments. She titled her head to aside when he stared back at her, probably confused as to why her son was staring at his own mother as if she was a ghost.

"W-Wah! You're still here? W-Why are you taking off your clothes?" Delia placed both hands on her hips, her son cowered with his back facing the bathroom walls.

"I need to shower too Ash, better not waste the water." The young man was absolutely livid by the situation they were in, they have abundance of water right now, too many in fact! Utilizing the last ounce of rationality from his fatigue state, Ash began to walk out of the room still drenched in his clothes.

"We have plenty of water now! Rain water from outside! I-I go get it." Alas, the firm grip of his mother on his hand and the authoritative tone from her halted his tracks.

"Absolutely not! Not only is it unclean but its cold and you would be caught in the rain again. We can shower together." His mother was adamant on sharing a shower together, while in normal times Ash won't have thrown a fuss, after what happened last night and this morning, he wasn't sure if the tension between them would further escalate. The last thing he wants was to hurt his mother and his natural body reactions might make her uncomfortable.

"But mom I-I'm not a kid anymore." Delia sighed and placed a hand on her son's shoulders, she was well aware of the potential awkwardness between them, but her son's health was more important than some skinship they shared. Besides, it wasn't as if she was bothered if she was nude in front of her son, she trusted Ash enough to feel comfortable around him.

"I know you're not Ash, which is why you shouldn't make a fuss about this. Now take off your clothes, you're going to get sick if you don't and we have to take care of you." Deflated by his mother's superior logic, Ash slowly stripped his clothes and threw them into the basket. His eyes was set on his mother taking off her bra and panties, watching the firm outline of her large breast and labia that have patches of hair. His face flushed red at the sight of her fully nude body taking center stage, the sight of her tying her hair up in a ponytail with her armpits exposed and hairband clipped in her mouth sent shockwaves to Ash's body and nether regions.

"Sit down Ash." Enamored by the sight, Ash stiffly walked towards the plastic stool his mother preemptively prepared for him. He muttered a few lines of profanity after his cock began to swell up rapidly at the sight of his mother bending down to take the showerhead. He chattered his teeth and felt his face heat up at the sight, gosh was his embarrassing. He was near certain his mother have seen his erection, her lingering gaze on his lower half of his body was not a coincidence. Thankfully, the sound of the water spraying nozzle calmed down his excitement temporarily, the cold waters from the shower made him yelp at how cold it was, but his mother merely giggled at his reaction. Soon enough the awkward atmosphere of their naked state began to fade away and Ash just sat there with his hands on his lap, his mother washing his hair and spraying his back. There was a strange sereneness to it all, the sound of water hitting the floor and the melodic humming from his mother. It felt normal for them to do this even though Ash knew it wasn't the case.

Then the sound of the water stopped and the deafening silence of the room returned. Ash was moments away from asking a question when he felt a pair of soft heavenly mounds pushing his back. He gasped at the sensation of her breast pushing directly against his glistening back, her soft arms wrapped around his toned and leaned chest. Her warm ragged breath tickled his nape as she leaned her cheek against the back of his drenched hair. The sudden intimacy made Ash squirm, the sensation of her warm body pinning against his was indescribable.

"M-Mom is everything okay?" She bopped her head up and down, tightening her embrace around his waist. Thankfully, his growing erection was nowhere near her arms but that doesn't mean Ash wasn't freaking out.

"I just want to hug you like this." Her soft emotionally charged voice made Ash reflect on what's going on between them. He would have enjoyed this more if it weren't just them in the shower all naked and wet. He bit his lower lip and gripped his thighs tighter to suppressed the heat in his balls and the urges swelling up his bloodlust, the sensation of her large breasts against his back, he could thoroughly feel her nipples hardening by the second.

"M-Mom I can feel your-" His meek and pleading voice was silenced by a kiss to the cheek.

"It's okay, I don't mind." The subtle lust laced behind her motherly tone made him smile, maybe things between them doesn't need to be complicated. He leaned backwards and felt his head rest on her shoulders, allowing him nuzzle her cheek and his breath to touch her ears.

"I'm not going anywhere mom." Delia's smile grew wider when Ash became much more receptive to the hug and loosened up more. She missed holding him in her arms, this shower was just an excuse to get closer to him. She wasn't exactly sure what she wanted from Ash, but she knew she just felt safe with him.

"Mhmm." His hazel brown eyes dilated slightly, his eyes roamed around her nude perfect body, her breasts were ample and perky while her body was fit and curvy. Not a day of sag can be seen, she really kept in shape after all these years and rigorously exercised. His hands trailed around his mother's back, smirking at the trembling shiver her body went when his fingers grazed upon her back. He lowered his finger from her shoulder down to her hip bone, dangerously close to the hole that gave birth to him.

"Let me wash your hair mom." The husky whisper from her son made her knees shake from the adrenaline and excitement, she felt his hands yanking off the hairband that held her hair together, letting it all loose in one fell sweep. She felt disrobed and vulnerable at that very moment, yet she knew she was completely safe with Ash by her side.

"Will you?" She received her answer when Ash stood up before her, strong, tall and muscular, her eyes widened at the sight of his enlarged penis in full mast. Her lips trembled at the sight of her little Ash finally becoming a man, her eyes were set on his cock, watching it out throb every now and then. The veiny nature of it, the heat radiating from the pulses as if to welcome her, Delia averted her gaze immediately once she caught his mischievous smirk.

"Of course, we have shampoo and everything." Meekly, she stood up at the corner of the shower cubicle as Ash placed the plastics stools outside, leaving no interruptions or barriers to whatever her son had in store for her. She tensed up immediately when Ash placed the showerhead on its bracket, leaving his two strong hands empty. She eyed his back and muscles that filled out nicely, broad pecs and strong shoulders just the way she envisioned it.

"I-I don't think it's a good idea to do this, we're wasting water." Her protest has fallen on deaf ears, Ash would fulfill his duty as her son to make sure she was comfortable and clean. Washing your mother's hair is by far the biggest form of filial piety a son can give, at least in Ash's own words anyway. He turned on the sprinklers and grinned at her body flinching against the cold waters, he had just the idea to warm her poor body up.

"Water issue have been solved, monsoon season last until November and now is only the start of August. Plenty of time to store water and make preparations for winter." Delia bit her lower lip when she felt his hands running over her hair, trailing it softly and gently, before he roughly rinsing it with the water coming down from the nozzle. His fingers was thorough and firm, massaging her scalp and relieving any tension in her head. She let out a series of low moans, further encouraging her dear son to perform his best. He smiled at the little mewls and purrs she let out, his hand reached for the hair wash dispenser and pumped some of the shampoo on his hands.

"A-Ash." He pushed his chest against her smooth back, his cock directly touching her ass cheeks, grazing the hot throbbing member against it ever so slightly. The young Ketchum shifted the shower head to aside and spread the shampoo across the hair, rigorously sinking his fingers into every nook and cranny of her auburn hair he loved dearly. Delia let out a small gasp when one of his hands trailed around her abdomen, leaving trails of foam as it dangerously inched closer to her labia before rubbing her other body parts with much care and tender.

"We can also filter the water using rock, sand, dried grass and charcoal to filter out the impurities, leaving the filter water boiling it again." Her head was spinning from the array of sensation bombarding her body, the head massage that left her in the bliss and the weight of his penis touching against her back. She stiffened out another moan when she felt a pair of hands dropping down to grope her breast, leaving foams and shampoos in its wake. She leaned her soaked hair against his shoulders, desperately looking for something to cling on as her legs began to give away from his circular massages to her milky breasts.

"S-Since when you learn how do this?" The double entendre made Ash chuckle deeply, it was a low husky voice that he knew his mother loved. He further soaped her body, fingers trailing around her armpits to her bare waist that swayed with every turn. His pulsating cock inched against her thighs and slide it between them, making his mother trembled at the direct contact his veiny cock sliding against her cherry pussy lips that ached for its touch. She frantically held his forearm and bicpes, careful not to slip from the slippery sensation of his wet member edging her further.

"Ah you know 2 AM survival bushcraft videos, the one time I went camping with the boys and we almost died from hypothermia, it's a pretty wild experience heh." Delia managed to break out from her dazed state when she heart that.

"You almost died?" He nodded slowly and leaned against her neck, gently leaving kiss marks on it as he nose burrowed at her nape. Delia let out another moan when she felt her son's large cock thrusting forward between her legs. She knew she should have stopped this but she was too engrossed and turn on too do anything. His fingers massaged her two breast firmly, his fingers teasingly danced around her sensitive nipple as it gyrate around the tip just to toy with her.

"It was freezing, but nothing that body warmth can't fix, right mom?" She growled at how turn on she was, she was desperately close to an orgasm and the desire to slam her pussy down her son's huge cock was overwhelming her. But she had to remain level headed in this, she placed her hands behind Ash's thighs to hold herself in place, her ragged breaths and heavy breathing from his cock pistoning through her thighs made her squeeze them harder, earning a mewl from her son.

"Y-Yeah, warming up the body is really important." She stared directly in his eyes, filled with lust and the desire to take her right then and there. Their lips trembled and were inches from touching one another, but Delia was resolute in not escalating things further, at the very least not in the shower. She instead kiss his cheek and broke away from his strong grip, leaving her nipples red and her pussy secreting fluids, trailing down along her thighs as the water droplets mixed with them.

"Ash um, t-thank you for washing my hair but I can do the rest now." The young man frowned slightly, did he went overboard? She didn't seemed to hate what he did and in fact welcomed it, maybe now she is having second thoughts and regrets. He clenched his fists and nodded with a guilt-ridden look. Fuck! He had made her uncomfortable and disgusted now hasn't he?

"You sure? I can do the full body wash for you." Delia caught his meek and chastened look, she smiled and closed the distance between them and wrapped her arms around his neck. The majestic sight of his mother winking at him with her thrusting her soft pelvis against his dick made Ash parched and gulped. Just a little more and he could see his cock enveloped by the tight walls of her warm folds, clamping down on his cock as she rides him with a seductive smile. The wild side of his mother must be explored.

"No it's fine, thank you sweetie." The lack of guilt or shyness between them had now solidified their new relationship, the murky waters of their bond had gradually become clearer and clearer. Ash nodded and leaned her forehead against hers feeling the warm touch of her lithe body against his.

"Alright, let me know if you need help okay? I'm still pretty cold so maybe I'll head bed first." She watched her son wash the remnants of the soap that spilled over from their vigorous humping session. She let out a pent up sigh once he left the showers and found her fingers trailing against her pussy, she gently inserted her finger in and moaned at how turned on and wet she was.

'What was that!? When did he become so assertive? I knew showering him was a bad idea but the way his fingers dance around my body and his cock, Arceus it was throbbing so much against my thighs. Fuck! It was so big and hot too.' The frustrated mother slowly glanced at the shower head and felt her face flushed at a potential idea to relief herself.

---

Ash laid on the bed with his eyes dilating against the ceiling, his mind replaying the hot raunchy scene of what just happened in the showers. His fingers were inches away from fingering the very woman who raised him, part of him wanted her to beg for it, making her squeal when he leave bite marks on her maiden neck and make her scream his name out loud as she orgasms from roughly shoving his fingers inside her It was hot, it was sexy, it was-

Immoral as hell.

'Mom is going to kill me, what was I thinking!? I practically molested the woman who raised me, what the hell is wrong with you Ash? You came all the way for her and this is what you do? How am I suppose to look at her in the eyes now? She didn't seem to hate it, I'm sure she was wet too... shit that was hot as fuck.' Now in his post-nut clarity state, the young man laid on the shared bed with his mother. The universe had called to him, Arceus had judged him and now his inner conscience that was noticeably silent during the height of his arousal had began to reprimand him for his actions. He sighed and turned to the wall next to the bed, what the hell does he do now?

"Ash? You're asleep?" He froze when his mother enter the room, now fresh from the showers, she wore a black shirt and short shorts, barely hiding her large ass that beckoned him to grab on it. He cleared his throat and looked away, he can't further sully his mother like that. What they did in the shower should never happened, he just lost all inhibitions and just let his carnal desires to consumed him.

"H-Huh no, was getting comfortable." His mother was sweet as usual, as if everything that happened in that shower was just a illusion. She sat directly on the bed, her hands wedged between his legs that were underneath the blanket.

"I need to dry my hair, I'm tempted to use the hair dryer but I know heating takes a lot of power." The electric mouse in question was no where to be seen, probably because it sensed some tension in the air and quickly excused himself from the situation, a wise move that Ash is grateful for.

"Pikachu and I will look into the generator, wattage and generation is not an issue, it's storing the excess electricity. If there is large battery packs it might be worth it. Actually now that I think about it, the ranch have no shortage of electric pokemon so Professor Oak must have a battery silo lying somewhere." Delia tousled his hair, her son has always been a bright student so it was good to see him putting his studies to good use.

"Look at you, being super smart and resourceful." Ash chuckled at the tone of admiration, in truth there were still many things they can and should do now. But he lacks any knowledge or techniques, getting fortifications up should be they priority in case of a raid by the infected.

"I wish, there are many things I don't know what to do." A young child should not bear the burden of leaving a bunch of an adults during an apocalypse, that concept was absurd and laughable, Yet the reality is that Ash was the one who plans, charts and risk his life for the, as a single mother who had always been independent and looked after her son's every need, this was an uncomfortable change of positions and dynamics.

"I don't expect you to know everything Ash, frankly speaking I should be the one who helps you. Instead I'm just here, being useless and waiting for everyone to do everything." The saddened look plastered on her pretty face made Ash narrowed his eyes, he firmly gripped his mother's wrist and pulled them to him, earning an astonished look from her.

"Don't you ever say that! You're the most amazing woman I ever known! Strong, beautiful and compassionate, I'm lucky to have a mother like you by my side. You have no idea how hard is it out there! Seeing you smile and laugh really makes me happy mom, it keeps me going in this insane world." The voice crack from him made Delia embraced him tightly, her little Ash had always put up a brave face for her. She soothingly stroke his hair and kissed it softly, feeling his warm embrace intertwining with her own.

"What happened in the shower, I didn't meant it mom. I didn't know what came over me." She tensed up slightly, she wasn't expecting him to bring up what happened in the showers so soon but it was best they move beyond that. She pulled back from the hug and caressed his cheeks, her eyes shyly darting between his eyes and the giant snake that lies between his legs.

"It's alright Ash, h-how long has it been since you relief yourself?" Ash began to sweat immediately, the exact time frame of when a man relief himself needs no philosophical or complicated debate. The inner mechanism of a man's brain is an enigma, where the time and space of reality- yeah it was literally 10 minutes ago when he jacked off to his mother's body, hence the aforementioned post-nut clarity and the crumpled tissue papers that occupied the bin.

"Uh you mean masturbate?" Delia took pleasure and pride at tormenting her son like this, watching him fumble around and think of an excuse. In truth, she already knew the moment she stepped into the room and the musky scent of his semen filled her nostrils. It's been months since she last caught the scent, being a mother to a hormonal teenage boy had made her an expert when it comes to his masturbation habits.

"Almost two weeks now." The low and barely audible tone from him almost made Delia laughed, but she had to be sensible one here and understand is his needs. Her son is quite the sexually active person, at least according to his search history and list of questionable folders. She never admonished him of course, she view it as perfectly healthy for someone of his age to be fascinated by sex.

"You're growing teenager and you're frustrated, it's natural for you to feel that, but not to your mother." The firm look on her face broke Ash's heart, like a piercing spear lunging through it directly. He knew she was right, growing up he had always looked up to her as the perfect role model, mother and even wife. His taste in girls largely stems from their ability to give them the same motherly warmth and comfort Delia can give her, an Oedipus complex that really made Ash feel guilty.

"I know... I was just looking for some comfort, you make me feel safe mom, I'm sorry." Delia wanted nothing but to scoop him in her arms and cuddled with him, planting kisses over his head and tell him how much she loved him. She perfectly understood his sentiments, they were living in a broken world where nothing is certain, it was natural for him to be attracted to people of familiarity and comfort.

'Oh why did he have to say that. My sweet little Ash, what I won't give to make you feel better.' Slowly as she goes, she crawled next to him and nuzzled her cheeks against his. She rested her hand on his thighs and firmly hugged him from behind. She too was conflicted by the nature of their relationship, it was sacred just like every parent child relationship but she knew there was something more to it. After her husband left her to fend for herself, she developed an affinity for her son. Professor Oak, Gary's parents and the neighbours were all good company and friends, but only her son would she call him her little prince. Incest is wrong not only because of the taboo, biological birth defects but also because of the power dynamics in their relationship. A parent can groom their child how they see fit, emotionally manipulate them and make them subservient to them. This is exactly the reason why Teacher Student relationship is frowned upon too by society, a teacher can blackmail or utilized their authority to undermine a student's wellbeing for their sick perverse fantasies. Delia didn't have the courage or heart to question whether she too groomed her son to become the man she wished her ex was.

"I do love you Ash, what we did was wrong and- its not healthy for our relationship." Of course Ash knew that, but he deemed himself responsible and mature enough to weather the risk. If the relationship is consensual between both parties and two souls love each other dearly, isn't that enough? Who cares about society? There isn't one to judge them considering they have collapsed! No, Ash was firm and determined in his belief, if his mother wished to be with him then he would gladly consummate their love together. If not, he is willing to bear peace with it and respect her wishes to continue their relationship as mother and son.

"I know, I've come to terms with it too. I promise you that we will just stay as parent and child, j-just give me time to adjust-" The small kiss to his cheeks stopped him in his tracks, her lips lingered for a moment before he felt a pleasurable shiver down his spine. The scent of her shampoo that he so happily applied to her body permeated the room, he let out a cute whimper when she pecked his earlobes, nibbling it with her mouth with much skill and expertise.

"I didn't say I don't want it to happen." His hazel brown eyes widened, he felt his heartbeat thumping at the thought of being with her. The sexy and lewd stuff are amazing on itself, but to emotionally bond and love her in a way that no other man can was something he craved for! Delia giggled at his bewildered reaction and face him directly, she arched her body forward and caressed his cheek, her amber eyes shimmering with the utmost passion and love for him.

"But let's just go by our own pace okay? One step at a time, how we feel for each other and everything. We need time to adjust as you said, I still see you as my son. I'm your mother and I'm still very much responsible for your safety and happiness. I want to be sure if this is right for us, even if it frustrating or slow, just know that I love you very much Ash." Ash felt a swelling of emotions storming within him, he nodded and pulled this amazing woman who raised him onto his lap. Strong yet gentle, Delia gave in into her son's embrace as she wrapped her legs around his waist. The tender look on his eyes make her cheek red with delight.

"I love you too mom." The mother found her lips trembling at the sight of her son looking at her so adoringly. She tightened her grip around his neck and slowly found herself leaning forward. The Pallet Town teen held back a smirk from her sudden affectionate and assertive behavior. Even when they try to stay level headed around each other, their arms would magically find their way around their body. Now inches away from their lips touching, Ash couldn't resist teasing her one last time.

"What happened to going by our own pace hmm?" The single mother chuckled sexily and stroke the back of his hair softly, feeling his lustful and lovestruck eyes hungering for her body. She gently pulled him towards hers, his strong arms tightly holding onto her body as he rubbed them sensually.

"A kiss won't hurt."