Author Notes at end of Chapter

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Chapter 13: Lighthouse Revelation

Ash leaned over his knees, breathing heavily as he stood behind a rack of jackets. Every few seconds, somebody would walk past as they were also currently shopping in Cerulean City's most popular mall. Only difference was, he was brought in this hell against his will.

It had been several days since Ash's win to capture his second Gym Badge from Misty Waterflower. For those days, the group had taken a well needed rest, often relaxing in their rooms or touring the city together.

It was just Ash and Leaf at the moment, as Brock was actually aiding Nurse Joy at the moment. Brock had offered his assistance in any way possible at the Pokemon Center, in hopes of learning as much as he could regarding her occupation and experience in treating Pokemon.

"What do you think about this one?" Leaf turned to him, holding up a small brown jacket.

"Do you think it's a good idea blowing all your money on more clothes?" Ash asked, disregarding her question. If Ash had a Pokedollar for every time she had asked him that question in the past two hours, he would be able to buy the whole complex. Leaf looked slightly taken back, as if the concept of not spending money on clothes was foreign to her. Which, knowing Leaf, was most likely the case.

"What else would I spend it on?" Leaf asked genuinely, proving Ash's suspicions right. To be fair, the two had received a rather generous amount from the League. Travelers had to pay for all kinds of expenses throughout their journeys after all. The cash rewards would only get higher as well, as the number of trainers succeeding and progressing throughout the regions would slim down slowly. It was much more of an accomplishment defeating the eighth Gym, rather than Pewter City Gym.

'No offense Brock.' Ash thought.

"Char!" Charmander pointed towards a specific jacket, standing besides Ash's leg. Pokemon weren't exactly allowed to be outside of their Pokeballs in this specific mall. However, workers and others shopping didn't seem to mind thus far. It could be because Charmander was a relatively small Pokemon, barely reaching up to the teen's knee. If anything, others were pleased to see the Pokemon, due to his unusual color as a shiny Pokemon.

"You like this one?" Ash reached into the men's rack, before holding up the white jacket, with black stripes across to make it slightly less basic. Charmander nodded with an open smile, seeming adamant on Ash purchasing the jacket.

"Alright, alright!" Ash laughed, throwing the jacket over his shoulder to purchase before leaving the store. He could use more clothes anyways, as he hadn't purchased any since departing from Pallet Town. Ash couldn't say the same for the girl alongside him.

"Excuse me, sir?" A young man approached, wearing a black suit and a name tag, signifying he was a worker in some department. He didn't appear to be over thirty, with a clean shaven face and short blonde hair. "I couldn't help but notice your Charmander. Are you a trainer?"

"Yeah, hope you don't mind me asking why?" Ash replied, as Leaf gave a curious look at the stranger before returning back to her search for clothes.

"Would you be curious in checking out some of our TMs? We have plenty, covering all types to provide us for an aspiring trainer like yourself." Jake said, pointing towards the small shop just outside of the parallel store the two were currently in.

Ash would be lying if he said he wasn't interested in the offer, regardless of the store employee asking for his own benefit. He had rarely used the money he earned so far. A few TMs bought would greatly benefit his Pokemon and their respective move pools.

"That sounds great! Leaf, I'm going to check it out quickly." Ash informed the girl, as she compared two jackets in both hands. Upon hearing her name, Leaf turned her attention to the two.

"Sounds good. I'll meet you at the Pokemon Center?" Ash nodded in response, before picking up one of her shopping bags she had already bought. It was the least he could do considering it was unlikely she could carry both without straining herself in the long walk back. Leaf smiled gratefully, thanking him as the two said goodbye.

The TM store was fairly small, as it was roughly twenty by twenty square feet. It contained a long front desk where Jake now stood behind. The wall behind him was covered with numerous TM discs, each stood up on a long rack.

"So, what specifically are you looking for? Like I said, we have all types!"

Ash contemplated the question for a minute, scanning the racks as Jake remained patient. Pikachu's move pool was adequate for now, as he had both a physical and long range attack. Double Team was also extremely effective outside of simply attacking.

Charmander obviously already had a fire attack, so that wasn't necessary. His starter also knew Scratch, but that was definitely a move that needed replacement. It was simply too weak of a physical attack now, especially as the two progressed. While pondering the topic, a slightly brown disc caught his eye. Each disc was labeled with a white tag across the top portion.

Brick Break

It was a stronger physical attack, as well as a fighting type move. It would be useful for facing Rock type Pokemon, as his team was fairly weak to Rock and Ground Types.

"How much is Brick Break?"

"It's one of our cheaper ones, at 1,000 PokeDollars." Jake replied with a cheery attitude.

"Well, I guess I'll take it then. How about any Ground type TMs?" Ash asked, while Jake preoccupied himself with placing the disc in a white shopping bag. Once he finished, he returned his attention back to the teen.

"We don't have many, but the three off the top of my head are Earth Power, Bulldoze, and Earthquake." Jake stated honestly.

Immediately, Earthquake caught the attention of the Pallet Town native. It was easily the most powerful attack in the group. The only downside for all three moves was that Nidorino would have to evolve before being able to use the TM. Which wasn't much of an issue, considering he had a Moon Stone to do exactly that when the two were ready.

Earth Power was a powerful attack as well, but unlike the other two, it was a special attack. Although Nidokings aren't weak in that department, their physical attack was regarded as the more dominant statistic.

Finally, Bulldoze was the least attractive option. Despite being a physical attack, it was much less of a threat than a feared move such as Earthquake. After a minute, Ash made up his mind.

"Alright, how many days of microwaved ramen am I going to have to have to afford Earthquake?" Ash joked, while Jake operated the desk computer. Likely typing the move into their database, his brown eyes scrolled across the screen.

"Earthquake is listed at 4,000 PokeDollars." Jake said nervously, eliciting a loud exhale from Ash.

"Makes sense." Ash replied hopelessly, handing the older man his trainer ID. Jake grinned happily as he took the card for payment, most likely pleased in finding a willing customer. After handing Ash his bag containing the two TMs, Jake wished him good luck on his journey. Ash thanked him as well, exiting the mall to meet back up with Brock and Leaf.

"How the hell do people climb this thing?" Ash asked himself, climbing up the seemingly never-ending stairs. It was pitch black as the teen scaled up the Cerulean Lighthouse, which was open 24/7 to any interested parties. It was no surprise that he hadn't passed by anyone, considering nobody wanted to reach the top of a lighthouse at ten o'clock at night. Apparently, this didn't apply to the friend Ash was attempting to reach.

Small light bulbs were scattered on the walls, barely lighting the stairs sufficiently enough to where one could see where they were stepping. It didn't help that the circular stairs around the lighthouse were outside, where the strong breeze continued to anyone daring to climb the structure.

Finally making it to the top, Ash was promptly met with the sight of Brock Harrison. Brock was currently leaning over the rail, admiring the crashing waves against the much lower dock. The Pewter City Gym Leader was unaware of Ash's arrival, smiling as the breeze blew back his spiky hair slightly.

"Leaf told me you decided to check this place out when I came back." Brock jumped slightly, grinning even wider at his friend's appearance.

"Hey, Ash! Just wanted to get some fresh air. I've never actually seen the city from the top of the Cerulean Lighthouse, despite having visited the city multiple times." Ash walked until he reached the side of Brock, before leaning over the rail similar to Brock. It was quite a view, as the lights illuminated the city held a certain breathtaking element. It was relaxing to say the least.

"How was working alongside Nurse Joy?"

"It was good! Mostly, I just helped with giving her any tools necessary during treatment. She was very helpful though!" Brock stated, detailing how Nurse Joy was patient in her explanations as Brock observed her work. Although he never had any "hands on" activity during the day, Brock was adamant that he learned a lot due to Nurse Joy's helpful and informative nature.

"Did you know that a Pidgey's wings have to be examined regularly by Pokemon Centers, since their velocity in flight is often too fast for their small anatomies?" Brock's voice continued, revealing his fascination with his work today. Ash laughed for a second, interested but not sharing the same love for the field as Brock/

"I definitely did not know that random piece of information." The two laughed, finding humor in the moment. Brock sighed contently, before reaching into his pocket. The older teen pulled out a handheld photo, containing him and all his siblings.

All of them were smiling brightly, standing directly in front of Pewter City Gym. If Ash had to guess, he would assume it was when Brock was granted the Gym due to being hired as Pewter City's Gym Leader. Brock appeared to be a few inches shorter and his face didn't appear as defined and matured as it looked in the present.

"I miss them a lot."

"I'm sure they're doing great. They all looked independent to say the least." Ash reassured his friend. The black haired teen truly did believe what he said. Although he had spent less a few days with them, the teen had seen plenty of evidence to support his argument. Everybody was self sufficient, being able to prepare their own meals and do their homework.

Since there was so many of them as well with varying ages, he had seen glimpses of some of the older siblings aiding the younger brothers and sisters. Whether it was with understanding their homework or something as trivial as reaching for something in a top cabinet.

"Well, they had to be with my mother and father out of the equation." Brock stated, his tone slightly more serious. Ash remained silent, as the metal sheets being struck by the harsh winds covered the silence. Ash was already familiar with Brock's unfortunate circumstances regarding his parents. Brock grimaced at his words slightly, regretting the hint of discontent in his tone. He shouldn't have brought it up, as the atmosphere already shifted into a much more somber one.

Of course, Brock had brought up the absence of his parents multiple times, but it was different learning why they weren't in the picture. Although he hadn't given much detail, Brock had told him and Leaf recently that his parents had ditched them to journey across the world. In Brock's words, they "found more enjoyment drinking themselves to death traveling the world than caring for the children they brought into the world." It didn't take a genius to understand that his parents were definitely not suitable to be parents. After a moment, Brock broke the silence.

"How are your parents?" Brock peered to his right to gain sight of the teen. Ash shrugged, removing his black cap briefly to run his hand through his unruly hair.

"Dad has never been in the picture. I've been raised by my mom for my whole life. She's amazing." Ash stated with a smile, as the thought of his mom made him more grateful for her presence in his life. It had been them from the start, with his mom providing for him despite the lack of a father throughout his childhood. Besides, Professor Oak was already enough of a father figure to fill that hole.

"Shit. I'm sorry, Ash. I completely didn't know." Brock replied apologetically.

"No, don't be! It's been this way my whole life. It's not something new I've been dealing with."

There truly was nothing for Brock to be sorry about. There has been plenty of moments where Ash has missed having that presence in his life, especially during his younger years. But it was also different considering it's all he's known. You can't really miss something you've never had.

"I, uh.." Ash started, filling the momentary silence. "I never really knew what happened to him. I know he's alive. Yet, I don't know why he left. I don't know where he is. Brock, I don't know the guy's fucking name." Ash scoffed, in a desperate effort to not take the conversation so seriously. It was difficult to, though, as he wasn't even sure why he was telling Brock this in the first place.

Maybe it was because Brock was his friend, who had shown numerous times how trusting and compassionate he could be. Maybe it was because Brock had issues extremely similar to his own. Or maybe, it was because it was something he had to let out, as it had been pent up inside him his whole life. Leaf was always there to listen and comfort him regarding the topic, but it was different telling someone completely different. Even if he was the most vulnerable he could possibly be at the moment.

"Why's that? How has your mom not told you anything?" Brock questioned. It was something Ash was grateful for. Brock addressed a major question, without simply expressing his apology for something that wasn't his fault.

"Every time I bring it up, she just says that he's not coming back. I ask for something about him, and she tells me it's not important. I speak ill of him, and she tells me he was a good man."

His mother was the kindest and most loving person he knew. He couldn't have asked for a better mom. Even his neighbors and friends enjoyed telling him throughout his life how Delia Ketchum was the closest to an angel a human being could possibly be.

But everything was different when his father was involved in the conversation. Anytime he was brought up, Delia wanted nothing to do with it. Her mood would completely shift to a much more sad and depressed version of herself. She'd stay like that the rest of the day, leading to Ash not even asking about him for the past two years.

Pallet Town

7 Years Ago

"Mom, what did Dad do for work?" A six year old Ash Ketchum asked, making his mother frown at the subject. The sun was out in full, being a significant contrast to the somber topic brought up.

"Honey, it's not important. I'm sure when you see him when you're older, he would love to tell you." Delia said with a forced smile, kissing the back of Ash's hand. Ash tilted his head in confusion.

"Why can't you just tell me, Mom?"

"Because he's not here right now, Ash. It's not important." Delia replied, her tone signaling that her words were the end of the conversation. Ash huffed in response, tearing his arm away before running back inside their house. Delia could only watch on sadly, choking back her tears.

3 Years Ago

"Don't speak of him like that, Ash!" Delia shouted, pointing at the much smaller ten year old below her.

"Yeah? What's he going to do? He's not here now, is he?!" The boy's young high pitched voice rang out in the kitchen. His mom's eyes visibly teared up, barely holding the well of tears in place.

"He would be here if he could."

"Sure." Ash returned sarcastically, drying his own tears with his sleeves.

"Your father is a good man." Delia said softly, crouching down to meet his eyes. Ash looked away, glaring at the wall while she caressed his cheeks with her fingers on each side. "He loves you so much."

"Why can't he be here, Mom? W-why is he n-not here with us?!" Ash stuttered, now openly sobbing while she shushed him in a hopeless effort to console hers on. Like the many times prior, Delia remained silent after being posed the infamous question.

At this point, Ash wasn't even sure if mom even knew why the man in question had left them. She always spoke as if his father could do no evil. As if he wasn't a deadbeat, wherever he was. Because he only knew two things about the man. His father was alive and he couldn't give a damn about him or his mother.

"I'm sorry, Ash. I can't imagine what that's like." Brock sympathized with the younger teen. He couldn't imagine not knowing what happened to his parents. Meanwhile Ash was in the dark, not having a single clue as to why he didn't have a father throughout his life. For whatever reason that may be.

Brock was lucky enough that he had complete clarity regarding his own situation. It wasn't a complicated situation. Just two irresponsible adults drowning themselves in liquor, gambling, and no doubt expensive trips they couldn't afford. Anything to get away from the family they struggled to support. Being burdened with supporting his siblings emotionally and financially was Brock's greatest achievement and experience in his life. Being able to provide for the family he loved more than anything, regardless of the odds stacked against him.

"It is what it is. Like I said, I'm used to it. Guess we both got screwed in that department." Ash scoffed once again. Brock gave a sad smile, easily recognizing the difference in Ash's eyes. They were always a light shade of brown, radiating positivity and happiness. There was certainly no glow to them now. It was the most dead the older man had seen in someone's eyes throughout his young life.

"Guess so. Doesn't mean we're any worse off because of it." Brock replied hopefully, eliciting a nod from Ash as the two continued to look at the horizon. It was a hopeful thought. Brock didn't know how different things would be if his parents were present throughout these past years. Ash's situation would be even more drastic, as he had never had a father his whole life! Still, Brock was appreciative that his words appeared to comfort his friend just barely, judging by his shoulders relaxing.

"If it means anything, Ash. These past weeks have shown me just how incredible of a person you are. I know you care about being a strong trainer, but screw that right now." Brock said jokingly, as Ash genuinely laughed for a moment at his words.

"You're the most caring person I've met in my entire life. Going out of your way when it comes to your friends, especially Leaf. You're funny, lighting up peoples day even if you just met them. Most importantly, you're a good man. Putting yourself in harm's way to help those for no reward." Brock finished, remembering Ash's interference with Team Rocket.

It either took someone with a pure heart or messed up in the head to willingly put themselves in that kind of situation to help others at risk. In such a short time knowing the teen, Brock was willing to put his money that Ash intervened because of the first reason.

"Thanks, Brock. I can say the same for you." Ash said in return, eliciting a grateful smile from Brock. Despite the depressing subject at hand, neither teen showed any signs of letting tears run rampant. Brock pushed himself off the rail, slowly walking behind Ash as he placed his hand on the teen's shoulder momentarily.

"Alright, enough sappy shit." Brock remarked, eliciting a laugh from both. "Let's get out of here. We have to get an early head start leaving Cerulean City tomorrow morning." Ash nodded, trailing behind the older teen as they descended down the lighthouse.

As their shoes clattered against the rough metal beneath their feet, Brock contemplated the newfound knowledge. It really was slightly appalling, that someone so happy and energetic could have such a traumatic background in their family tree. Though, his family was the same way. The departure of his parents left a hole in all of them, but over time, those wounds stitched themselves back up.

Brock wanted to know more of Ash's feelings for his father. It was only fair, helping Ash after what he did for his own little brother in Pewter City Science Museum. Though, the two had spoken about more than enough in just a few minutes tonight. It would take time, and there was no chance any of them would push the other to open up more than they were willing, Leaf included.

Hope you all enjoyed this chapter. Kind of depressing if you ask me haha. The topic of Ash's father will be brought up again, but there is plenty of story left for it to be expanded upon. I wanted to give a little bit of detail regarding Ash's background. Throughout the story, we will see more glimpses of Ash and Leaf's childhood lives, but it will definitely not be a central point. I know the dialogue is confusing, especially about why Delia is unwilling to speak about literally anything of Ash's father. This will be explained, as there is a much larger plot surrounding this point. Though, it won't be relevant until much later on.

REVIEW as it motivates me to update quicker and I'll see you all soon!