Author's note: Votes were in and this won in the polls, so I'm giving this a try.
DON'T advertise your artistry to me via PM it's annoying, I'm selective and I don't have the funds. The answer is still no, respect my boundaries.
If you truly DO like my fanfiction, you leave a positive, in-depth review like my loyal posting here.
And lastly, fair warning, the following chapter may contain mention of past bullying and mild injury that may be upsetting to readers. Proceed with caution.
"Welcome to the world of Pokémon! This world is inhabited by creatures called "Pocket Monsters" or 'Pokémon'. For some people, Pokémon are pets. While others use them for battles, we find ourselves coexisting with them in various styles. Are you interested in learning about this vast Pokémon world?" The announcer called out.
"Yes!" Laoise declared.
She stood in the arena, holding a pokéball and ready to show her skills.
The crowd was cheering loudly, but in battles like these she learned to focus only on her opponents and which pokèmon to use.
"You're up!" Laoise called, throwing the pokéball.
"Laoise, breakfast is ready!" a voice cut through the stadium roar.
The pokéball becomes a simple glittery rubber ball, ending Laoise's daydream.
Her outfit turns back into her casual clothes and the entire pokèmon league arena fades away into her bedroom. Light blue walls full of various pokèmon or movie posters.
White bookcases were stocked full of pokémon field guides and epic children's fantasy books. These stories of brave children embarking on journeys into magical lands clearly fueled Laoise's wish to strike out on her own Pokémon journey. With so much inspiration from the pages of her favorite books, her mind and sketches were rich with imagined worlds.
On her twin bed, sat Laoise's stuffed Squirtle. Beside the bed, her white wooden desk was neatly organized but for a scattering of colored pencils and pens. A stack of notebooks held her observations from "field research" watching wild Pokémon.
"I made your favorite - cinnamon swirl pancakes." her mother was calling from downstairs.
Oh right.
It's just another day in the Bluebell Hollows.
Nestled within a secluded woodland valley, The Bluebell Hollows was an idyllic modern village not found on any map. Only a thirty-minute hike from bustling Pallet Town, the Hollows had amenities like running water and technology while maintaining a quaint, rustic charm with its winding dirt roads and houses built from weathered wood and stone. Named for the abundant bluebells and bluebonnets that carpeted the forests each spring, coloring the landscape in an ephemeral blanket of blue until autumn's arrival.
While most children her age had embarked on journeys to become trainers or pursue other Pokémon-related careers at age ten, Laoise still attended school with those pursuing different goals. But her love of Pokémon shone through the posters and field guides lining her bookshelves. Spiral notebooks stored her ongoing observations from hours watching the forest's wild inhabitants.
She sighed, daydreams of Pokémon battles fading fast as the tantalizing aroma of cinnamon swirl pancakes wafted upstairs.
The McGrady household was bustling as usual this morning. Father Dave McGrady was perched at the kitchen table, poring over financial documents for work while sipping his coffee. Dave was an accountant, a known worrywart but loving family man.
Mother Hyacinth rushed around preparing breakfast, her mind always busy planning her day. She was a determined corporate attorney and a mama bear when the occasion calls, especially for her three daughters' - petite Laoise with fair skin, long light-brown hair and big doe eyes was the youngest child, ready for junior high; the eldest daughter, Shae, with her punk style of short brown hair and green hazel eyes behind small rectangular glasses was a freshman in high school; and tall Taryn with hazel eyes and long dark red bangs will be one next year.
Bespectacled Shae sat at the table doing an eerie charcoal sketch of a dead tree. Shae was intellectual, with a well-honed sarcastic wit and an artistic side to her. True, she enjoys creating, painting, sculpting, drawing and sketching. Her favorite type of art tends to be the expressive and the macabre, sometimes in between. And being the oldest, she is very pragmatic in getting things done.
Suddenly, the front door flew open as the middle daughter Taryn breezed in, chatting animatedly on the phone about the latest fashion trends. "Ugh, I know right?! Who thought neon orange was a good idea this season? Even if it does look cute on a Charmander and a Raichu." she exclaimed to her friend.
Taryn was a bubbly, vain and terribly distracted girl who's into fashion. She loved to choose outfits and accessories to go with them. Also she can make smoothies and/or shakes and can be really creative when picking out ingredients to use.
Both older sisters greatly value their own individual pursuits and are aware of their younger sister's problems. On one hand, they know it's best that Laoise learns to become more independent, on the other they low-key watch out for her in different ways.
While Laoise sat quietly reading a book on Pokémon types and strategies. At twelve years old, she was eager to embark on her own Pokémon journey but her parents remained hesitant.
Sweet, sincere, and often daydreaming, her family treasures her kindness, but have to work hard to help her come out of her shell. To their surprise, however, due to the school aggression when Laoise was younger - she's not entirely afraid of confrontation or telling things as they are when she sees/feels that something is unfair. Being on the spectrum she can be blunt to the point of being tactless and even obnoxious. However, Laoise is more cautious of trusting others.
And for good reason.
When she was in kindergarten, she was exuberant and tried express herself with her peers, but didn't notice she was being laughed at, she thought it was all in good fun…until a solemn Shae told her the truth.
It had happened one day when Laoise had been dared by her peers to fetch a particular fruit from the very top of a tree, and a shocked Shae had intervened.
A group of children dared Laoise to climb the tall tree in the playground to fetch an apple, not understanding the true dangers. Naively trusting, Laoise began scaling the branches as her peers watched and laughed below.
Something about their laughter seemed off to Shae, even at a young age. She rushed over just as Laoise reached for the fruit, suddenly noticing her perilous height.
"Come down now, gently," Shae soothed, helping guide her little sister back to safety.
The laughing children dispersed at Shae's threatening glower, and Laoise's confusion broke Shae's heart.
Laoise just couldn't seem to get the hang of it like other children did. It seemed all too easy to get everything wrong. But she thought if she copied what they do, she will learn to be like them. She tried to fit but gave up. Maybe she just wasn't in the right place when someone was explaining how to work it all out.
Her parents had been so worried because Laoise had seemed unhappy sometimes. She woke up in the night. Sometimes she had a bad tummy ache.
Laoise couldn't explain herself too well, so no one knew about how the other children treated her. Why on that day she was invited for a slumber party, she returned home in tears and noticeable bruising on her arms.
It had been bad enough when Laoise made one friend briefly with a quiet boy, his mother hurried over all of a sudden. Trying to lead the confused kid away, and telling him he's not allowed to play with "abnormal kids". The McGrady sisters had never seen their father Dave so angry to the point that he caused a blood vessel to burst in both his eyes.
But it never crossed Laoise's mind to not go to school every day, no matter how awful it was. Even in the second grade, she was very diligent...
However, Shae and Taryn were more perceptive, it took a lot of coaxing and more to get Laoise to explain how the other kids had ganged up on her in the slumber party and pinned by her arms as a cruel joke. The worst part was poor little Laoise's confusion. She never saw it coming, pleading to know what she did wrong and on the verge of tears.
Thus her sisters told their parents, who went on the warpath. First they had Laoise in a different school and next they took her to a psychiatrist where Laoise was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome.
The psychiatrist, Dr. Thompkins, explained, "Children with Asperger's think and feel differently than other kids. Making friends can be difficult. Some may find it hard to listen or may not look at you in the eye when you talk. They may be good at History, or play a musical instrument very well. Others may have an exceptional memory but forget to put on a coat when it is cold outside. Working together to understand Laoise will help make life easier for her and everyone else."
When Laoise was diagnosed, the McGrady parents became overly concerned with her well-being. Her sisters particularly helped her understand slang and sarcasm.
So what does Laoise like to do for hobbies?
Well, she loves to draw up fantastical stories thanks to Shae had introducing her to a number of popular children's epic fantasy, she likes to use her imagination- mainly by making up plays and acting them out - with Taryn gladly suggesting outfits. Or pretending they're characters from favorite TV shows.
Surprisingly, Shae and Taryn's influence had rubbed off on Laoise in different manners: Laoise liked some forms of art (though it varies), enjoying some pop culture and she eventually developed a wider palate by enjoying some spicy foods.
But, best of all Laoise especially loves to watch and sometimes if permitted, play with the pokèmon. They sensed she was different and allowed her to approach. She tells them everything and they seem to understand her troubles.
"Boy, nothin' like cushioned seats for watching the ol' Indigo annual league." Dave remarked, looking at the paper knowing it would be a year and a few months before the Indigo league began.
Laoise slumps dejectedly after finishing her pancakes. "Yeah, watching."
Shae looked up from her sketchbook with an exasperated sigh. While engrossed in her art, she kept a watchful eye on Laoise. She knew their parents' over-protectiveness frustrated the younger girl, but as the most pragmatic, Shae also understood their concern.
After all, what good was watching the events if you never get to go?
Thanks to the school guidance counselor, on a test run with rented pokèmon for a festival, Laoise had surprisingly demonstrated a skill for pokèmon battles. Since then, Laoise McGrady had dreamed of becoming a Pokémon Trainer.
But for a shy girl on the spectrum, obstacles seemed insurmountable. Her well-meaning parents feared the dangers of her journey and barred it, no matter her longing.
At ten, Laoise had watched enviously as neighbors' children received their starter Pokémon. While they began adventures, she stayed home. Lonely days stretched into years of silent pleading - would her chance never come?
She was now twelve years old, eager to embark on her own Pokémon journey but her parents remained hesitant.
Shae, now seventeen, noticed Laoise's mounting sadness. She knew this couldn't go on, if Laoise was ever going to grow as an individual, she was going to have to spread her wings as a trainer out in the wide open world.
With help from Taryn, she convinced their parents to reconsider.
"I've seen her on the field, she's like really good at it!" Taryn insisted. "She can make it, she survived two months of summer camp, remember?"
"Laoise needs this," Shae argued. "We can't hold her back or she'll become a perpetual mope, think of how much trouble it'll be once she becomes full-fledged teenager."
Their parents exchanged a worried look. "Girls, her safety is our top priority," Dave said gently.
"We know that, but remember how much she thrived at camp?" Shae replied thoughtfully. "Almost no one else thought she'd last a week but as soon as the two months were over…"
"She was chattering away about all the stuff she did and the pokèmon she saw on the hiking trail." Taryn added.
They were referring to how in the fifth grade Laoise had attended an overnight summer camp for two entire months and learned camping skills.
"And FYI, it was thanks to us that she learned to order alone and try out new foods." Taryn chimed in.
"Yep, now she likes her boneless buffalo wings, crunchy tacos and beef chili." Shae winked slyly.
Hyacinth added. "It's also a big responsibility. What if something overwhelms her, or she gets upset with losing a battle?"
Taryn chirped. "Mom, when Laoise reaches the cities or like, the other places, she'll be meeting and talking to new people."
Shae expressed. "It's not like Laoise won't be completely alone out there, her partners will watch over her too. Losing is also part of life, she truly wants to try even if she doesn't make it to the big leagues."
"Mom, Dad, I... I want to go." Laoise's forlorn expression tugged at their heartstrings.
Reluctantly, their parents agreed after months of persuasion from both the sisters and other authority figures, the day had come - Laoise's deferred dream was finally granted.
It had become somewhat of a bigger deal since she would be the first neurodivergent trainer to ever try out. For the Pokémon Association had confirmed that the pokèmon world be open to anyone who wished to become either a trainer, coordinator etc.
The family van rolled through the hills toward Pallet Town, dressed in her favorite cornflower blue hoodie and denim pants, Laoise was more than ready. Her knees trembled with excitement. At Professor Oak's lab awaited her future best friend and the first steps to a whole new world of adventure for her to explore.
Her large blue hiking backpack was full of supplies: water bottle with filter, binoculars, sleeping bag, compass, diary, pens, ziplocs, music player, solar charger and cables and a case for her badges.
Hyacinth was talking, "Now we called Professor Oak ahead of time. Once we arrive, remember to..."
Laoise fidgeted with anticipation as the van rolled closer to Pallet Town, and she only half-listened to her mother - her mind was on the journey ahead. What would her first Pokémon be? Would they become strong partners? Which pokèmon will she catch first?
Shae smirked at her younger sister's barely restrained excitement and joked sardonically, "Easy there kiddo, don't go running off before you get your most important thing." She gave Laoise's shoulder an affectionate squeeze.
Taryn beamed from her seat. "Trust me sis, you're gonna be like the best Trainer ever! I just know it."
Laoise took a deep breath, steadying her nerves. Her family's love and support filled her with determination. No longer would she watch enviously from the sidelines - this was her time to embark on a grand adventure.
Finally the van drove through Pallet town, while en route near one house, there was a large crowd complete with a squad of cheerleaders. What's all that about?
"Eh, must be the school's star player ready to do something else for a change." Dave shrugged indifferently.
Taryn peered out through the window with pursed lips. "Does whoever it is even go to our school? If not, then big deal."
Laoise wrinkled her nose and began reaching for her noise cancelling headphones.
Shae rolled her eyes at the sight of the cheerleaders and crowd, assuming they're waiting for a popular jock. " Make for the lab, Dad. Hurry, before I vomit up breakfast."
The McGrady van pulled up outside the local Pokémon Lab, though the crowd made parking difficult. As Laoise prepared her headphones to drown out the noise, Hyacinth spotted Professor Oak amidst the throng outside the gate.
"It seems he's waiting for us too!" she said, waving to catch the Professor's eye.
Professor Oak made his way over, grinning. "I apologize for the audience, but word got around a new Trainer was coming today. The local kids were already curious as it is."
Shae frowned. "Somehow I doubt a crowd's here just for Laoise's arrival."
The Professor chuckled knowingly. "No, it seems my grandson Gary has decided to make a show of picking his first Pokémon in a few minutes. The boy does enjoy a spectacle."
Laoise peered nervously at the scene, unsure if she could handle such fanfare. But Taryn gave her an encouraging nudge.
With Oak guiding them, the McGradys pushed through the crowd to the lab entrance.
"I must confess this is an entirely new scenario, never before had we a trainer on the spectrum, but the guidance counselor and the school psychologists were so insistent." Professor Oak said.
"First time for everything." Shae quipped.
As Professor Oak led the McGradys through the chattering crowd, Laoise did her best to avoid eye contact and sensory over-stimulation by focusing her gaze determinedly ahead. The noise was already grating on her nerves despite her noise-cancelling headphones dampening the sound.
She could feel eyes watching her curiously, no doubt wondering why this unknown girl warranted a personal escort from the esteemed Professor. Laoise fought the urge to shrink into herself under their gaze.
Taryn noticed her sister's discomfort and began chatting animatedly with Oak to draw attention away from Laoise. "So Prof, which starters will Laoise have to pick from? I bet a water type would suit her artistic side!"
Shae gave Laoise's shoulder a comforting squeeze. "Head high kiddo, you've got this." Her steady support helped Laoise find her resolve again.
Finally reaching the lab door was a relief. Oak spotted her unease and smoothly announced, "Now if everyone will kindly give our new young Trainer from the Bluebell Hollows some space, I believe it's her turn to meet a partner."
The lab's cool air provided respite from noise and Laoise was grateful for the quiet of the laboratory now that they were away from the crowd and indoors.
With encouraging nods from her family, Laoise took a steadying breath and stepped forward. Before her sat three Poké Balls, on a mechanical pedestal.
"Now then, I understand you might have had some time to know which will be your starter." Professor Oak said patiently to Laoise. "Take your pick."
The girl looked at the pokèballs carefully, noticing each one has the names of the pokèmon in their official colors. Red for Charmander which was a fire type, blue for Squirtle which was the water type, and green for Bulbasaur which is a grass type.
She studied each Poké Ball intently, recalling all she had read about the Kanto starters. Where some trainers were swayed by appearance, Laoise focused on forming a deep bond and a strategic planning.
Her hand hovered over Squirtle first - she admired its pluck and loyalty. But she reached for the one containing the Bulbasaur. She'll be needing one that can give her an edge against the eventual first gym leaders and a pokèmon she can hold in her arms.
Once Laoise lifted the pokéball with the green markings, it burst open in a flash of light. A small Bulbasaur with a diamond shaped spot on its forehead emerged, Bulbasaur emerged with a wide yawn and sleepy blink. Upon noticing Laoise, its curious gaze studied her carefully.
Laoise kept still, not wanting to spook the little Pokémon.
After a moment, Bulbasaur gave a friendly chirp and waddled over to gently nuzzle her outstretched hand. Laoise felt a warmth bloom in her chest at its acceptance.
She knelt down with care. "Hi, I'm Laoise. Will you be my friend and go on adventures with me?"
"Bulba!" Bulbasaur chirped happily and cuddled up against her hand. Her new partner had chosen her just as surely.
Laoise gave it a gentle hug, to which it made contented noises. A bond was forming between trainer and Pokémon.
Professor Oak smiled at the sweet scene. "A fine start to your journey, Laoise."
"Isn't that precious?" Hyacinth gushed as did Taryn.
Then Dave's camera flash startled both girl and Pokémon, eliciting shy squeaks.
"Oh!" Laoise was caught by surprise.
Her Bulbasaur was too, but other than it's pupils briefly contracting from the light and squeaking, it didn't do much.
"This is going right in the album!" Dave snapped a picture with a flash.
"Laying it on a little thick there." Shae remarked pointedly.
"Dad, boundaries," Taryn chided gently but firmly. "Baby steps, remember?"
Dave looked abashed. "Sorry sweetheart, got carried away. You're right to remind me."
"Good choice, now here is your Pokédex and pokèballs." Professor Oak held out the items for Laoise.
"Laoise, dear, can you say thank you?" Hyacinth reminded.
Laoise was hugging her Bulbasaur and gratefully took the items, "Thank you, sir."
"You're welcome, I trust you and your family will wish to say their goodbyes before you set off."
The McGradys walked outside with the professor, they were saying tearful goodbyes. Mostly from her father.
"We're gonna miss you." Taryn hugged Laoise.
Shae gently held her youngest sister, "Don't be a stranger, Superstar."
"You be careful, Bunny boo." Hyacinth said to Laoise after covering her in kisses and hugs. "I'll be phoning ahead to closest pokèmon center to make sure you're alright."
"Why would-" Laoise was confused before it sank in that most likely her mother will want to keep an eye out even on the road.
"No, no, no! My smallest baby!" Dave flung his arms around Laoise.
Her father's exuberant goodbye nearly lifted Laoise off her feet in his embrace.
"I'll be okay, Dad." Laoise assured him gently.
A flashy red sports car then pulled up, letting the crowd of onlookers part. A cocky-looking boy with spiky brown hair emerged.
This was Gary Oak, Professor Oak's grandson. He'd come for his starter pokèmon and he'd arrived just in time to see the autistic newcomer from the Bluebell Hollows being hugged a little too tightly by her worrywart father.
"Well, well, if it isn't the loser squad seeing off Lollipop McGee," Gary sneered, casting a scornful eye over Laoise's tearful family. "I should've known a spaz like her would need a whole sendoff committee."
Gary smirked as he approached, his eyes flicking between Laoise and her Bulbasaur. "So, you're the new kid getting your starter Pokémon, huh? Don't think you'll be able to keep up with me, rookie."
Laoise couldn't help but feel a surge of defiance. She may be new to the world of Pokémon training, but she wasn't going to let anyone belittle her. She squared her shoulders and met Gary's gaze with determined effort. "I may be new, but I'm ready to give it my all, my Bulbasaur too."
Dave bristled from Gary's treatment, but Professor Oak intervened smoothly. "Now Gary, every trainer begins their journey in their own way. Laoise has just as much promise as any."
Gary rolled his eyes. "Whatever, Gramps. Just hurry up and give me my Pokémon so I can show you what a real trainer looks like."
With that, he sauntered inside the lab, paying Laoise no further mind. She was relieved to see the back of him, though his cruel words stung. Her family's continued love and support helped overpower Gary's meanness.
Shae hugged Laoise tight. "Go show the world what you can do. We'll be cheering the whole way."
Hyacinth brushed away tears. "Be safe, call when you can. And remember - you've got the best sisters anyone could ask for."
"I'll be okay, I got my bag prepared and Shae gave me pepper spray." Laoise reassured, as she got her Bulbasaur into its pokéball and pulled on her hiking backpack.
"Bye-bye, sweetie. You be good girl on the road, take care of your pokèmon. Don't talk to anyone making an offer too good to be true." Dave said.
"Bye." Laoise waved and she began to walk down the road.
However, her father kept pace continuously listing off what not to do, and what to watch out for. To the point he was driving the family van while telling her.
"Or try to pick up the first wild Pokémon you see!"
"Dad, she's got this!" Shae reprimanded.
"Or eat any berries you don't know about!" From inside the van, Hyacinth had rolled down her window.
"Make sure to pack extra socks, dear! And stay hydrated!"
Shae pinched the bridge of her nose, exchanging a helpless look with Taryn. "You're both going to give her a complex if you don't back off!"
Laoise turned to wave, though her parents' fussing nearly made her miss taking in the beautiful scenery. Tall grass and wildflowers dotted the path ahead, beckoning adventure.
"Mom, Dad, come on!" Taryn scolded. "This is HER time."
Shae reminded their parents, "We're ALL just gonna have to wait until she reaches Viridian city."
"We'll make sure she calls as soon as she reaches each new town," Hyacinth assured him. "And I'll call ahead to the Pokémon Centers too."
"It may seem overprotective, but it will put my mind at ease," Dave replied.
"Please Daddy, I'll be very careful," Laoise promised. "My Pokémon friends will keep me safe."
Her parents exchanged a look. Her mother smiled. "Alright sweetheart, it's time."
Laoise beamed. "I won't let you down."
"And don't forget to send us lots of photos!" Taryn added.
At last, Laoise continued undisturbed - but her first true challenges had only just begun.
Finally after promising her anxiety-ridden parents that she'll at least call once she reaches the Pokèmon Center in Viridian city, Laoise was out on the open trail ready for her pokèmon journey.
Heading north from Pallet Town, Trainers must make their way through what will become their very first route they will explore on their journey.
Laoise walked down the trail, listening to the music Shae and Taryn had helped compile for her on her pastel blue headphones. Mostly a variety of music of choices, others movie and books-to-TV soundtracks.
"Who sings of all of love's eternity? Whose shines so bright? In all the songs of love's unending spells…"
She gazed contemplatively around the flowering fields and tall grass of Route 1, soaking in the natural beauty as music filled her ears. If she was going to continue onwards to train pokèmon and join the Indigo League, she was going to have to catch some pokèmon first.
As she stepped onto the grass however, the very tip of her foot caught on something and she fell forward. Glancing at her feet, Laoise saw it was a stolon. One of those grassy vines. Okay, that was annoying but it's not that big a deal.
She might as well gather information on what to catch first. Stopping for a moment, Laoise pulled out her Pokèdex which was dubbed Dixie. "Can you tell me which pokèmon can be found in Route 1?"
A clinical female voice responded:
"Common Pokémon inhabiting Route 1 include Pidgey, the Tiny Bird Pokémon; Rattata, the Mouse Pokémon; and Spearow, the Tiny Bird Pokémon. Pidgey is a Flying-type that hides in tall grass and so on, foraging for food such as small bugs. Rattata is a Normal-type that gnaws on anything with its fangs. Spearow has a very loud cry that can be heard over half a mile away. It is recommended first-time trainers seek to catch one of these common species to build experience."
Laoise nodded thoughtfully, committing the details to memory. Steeling her resolve, she ventured into the tall grass seeking her first capture. "Well then, I'm going to try and catch a either a Spearow or a Pidgey. What else can you tell me about them?"
The pokèdex replied. "Among all the flying Pokémon, Pidgey is the gentlest and easiest to capture. A perfect target for the beginning Pokémon trainer to test his or her Pokémon's skills.
Whereas unlike Pidgey, Spearow has a terrible attitude. It is very wild and will sometimes attack other Pokémon and humans."
Laoise listened intently as the Pokédex detailed Pidgey's gentle nature versus Spearow's aggression. A calm catch to start seemed best, both for her and Bulbasaur as they learned. "A Pidgey it is then. What else should I know?"
"Very docile. If attacked, it will often kick up sand to protect itself rather than fight back."
"Thank you for the information. It's helpful to know Pidgey won't put up much of a fight if attacked," Laoise replied.
Venturing cautiously into the tall grass, she took deep steadying breaths and kept her eyes peeled for the Tiny Bird Pokémon.
The sounds of rustling grass and Pokémon calls filled the quiet meadow. A lone Pidgey suddenly emerged, pecking at the ground in search of berries or bugs. It hadn't seemed to notice Laoise yet.
Recalling Dixie's warning to be gentle, Laoise slowly reached for an empty Poké Ball. But before she could even call out Bulbasaur for assistance, the movement startled the Pidgey into fleeing with an alarmed chirp.
Laoise sighed calmly. Her first capture attempt hadn't succeeded, but there would be other chances. And after tripping on another stolon, she was content simply observing the various Pokémon in their natural habitat. A Rattata scurried by, followed by some sparring Caterpie.
As she watched, Laoise noticed telltale signs of each species - where they searched for food, how they interacted or signaled danger. Her music played soothingly all the while, keeping Laoise relaxed and focused. When a lone Pidgey landed nearby completely unaware, she was ready to make her approach with patience, care and understanding of its gentle nature. This time, her capture might be successful.
She withdrew her Bulbasaur's Poké Ball, allowing her starter to emerge. "I know one of your weaknesses is flying types, but we both might get lucky if a pidgey hasn't learned to use gust yet. Should we risk it?" Laoise whispered.
Her bulbasaur nodded once. "Bulba!"
Guess, that's a yes.
Hopefully, her Bulbasaur should be more than a match for a Pidgey. If she can just weaken it a little then she can catch it.
Rustling grass nearby signaled a potential target.
"Use Tackle carefully then use vine whip - we just want to weaken it for capture," she whispered.
Her trusted partner nodded in understanding. With a nimble pounce, Bulbasaur struck the hidden Pidgey, which burst shrieking from the foliage.
Laoise steeled her nerves as the startled Pidgey emerged, ruffled and panicking from Bulbasaur's surprise tackle. Its small wings flapped desperately as it tried to gain altitude and escape.
"Now Bulbasaur, aim low with vine whip!" she called out calmly but firmly.
Her Pokémon swung its vines expertly, grabbing the Pidgey's leg to ground it without inflicting damage. The Tiny Bird Pokémon struggled valiantly in its grasp.
Laoise took a steadying breath. This capture had to be done swiftly and gently. Whipping an empty Poké Ball from her bag, she tossed it carefully at the pinned Pidgey. The ball shook once...twice...then emitted a satisfying click, confirming her success.
"You did it, we made our first capture!" Laoise cheered, scooping up Bulbasaur in a proud hug. Her partner seemed pleased by its trainer's joy, nuzzling her happily.
Releasing her new Pidgey from its ball, Laoise took out her Pokedex to record notes on its abilities and nature now that she had it registered. The Tiny Bird seemed curious rather than frightened by its new circumstance, pecking hopefully at a berry Laoise offered as a peace offering.
Laoise then noticed she'll be needing to refill water. She asked her new Pidgey, "Do you know if a river or something's close by?"
The bird pokèmon chirped and nodded.
"All right then, lead the way Pidgey!" Laoise encouraged, recalling her Bulbasaur. Her flying pokèmon knew these meadows better than she, and would no doubt be careful to look out for its trainer.
With Pidgey as her guide, Laoise followed closely behind as they ventured through Route 1, navigating the tall grass and making their way toward the sound of flowing water. The anticipation of reaching the river and replenishing their water was mixed with a sense of adventure and curiosity about what lay ahead.
The trek was pleasant beneath the dappled shade of a few budding trees. Wildflowers swayed sweetly in the breeze as other Pokémon went about their daily activities.
Soon enough, gurgling water greeted Laoise's ears through the foliage. Pidgey led her right to a burbling rive nearby. She was glad to have captured an observant Pokémon familiar with local resources. Her water bottle was quickly refilled, and a snack shared by all.
Kneeling down by the riverbank, Laoise dipped her empty water bottle into the clear water, filling it to the brim through the filter. She took a refreshing sip, feeling the coolness quench her thirst. Then, she filled another bottle for her Pokémon companions. Her Bulbasaur happily drank his fill.
Pidgey fluttered down to the water's edge and took a few sips, clearly grateful for the opportunity to hydrate. Laoise smiled, happy to see her Pokémon content and well taken care of.
As she continued to observe the river, Laoise noticed some nearby rocks that seemed perfect for sitting and resting. She settled down on one of the smooth stones, feeling the gentle warmth of the sun on her face. Pidgey hopped up onto her shoulder, perching there comfortably.
She could definitely get used to this. Out in nature, enjoying the scenery and natural beauty with her new pokèmon while traveling.
That's not to say her journey is not filled with a few bumps or scrapes. Inevitably in the grassy areas, Laoise kept tripping over grass stolons three times in the same day.
As she fetched some fruits from nearby trees, she ended up tripping over yet another grass stolon. Naturally, this has her greatly irritated.
Laoise growled, "Urgh! Stupid grass vines everywhere!"
And she kicked at the ground which loosened some pebbles. In so doing, she accidentally kicked a stray rock that tumbled into the bushes with a rustle.
Suddenly, an immense shadow emerged through the leaves with a threatening rumble. Oops.
Before her eyes Laoise saw a pokèmon she had not expected to run into unless it was rock cave or something.
An Onix towered above her, it's rocky body glinting in the sunlight. It must've been burrowing and her little rock disturbed it. Laoise froze in panic - what could her young Pokémon do against this rocky colossus?
"Uh, heh heh... Grass. So green and gentle. Heh heh heh." she rambled nervously.
The Onix roared in her face. Laoise did what anyone else would do: which was run screaming.
She blindly ran back to her campsite by the river as the furious rock pokèmon pursued. With a startled cry, Laoise lost her footing on the slick stones and plunged into the shallow side of the river.
The abrupt splash caught Onix by surprise, soaking its head. It roared angrily, rearing back for a crush. In her scramble to move away, Laoise felt something slip from her belt, hit by her flailing hands - a Poké Ball bounced off Onix's rocky brow and burst open.
A beam of red light engulfed the Pokémon, pulling it inside the capsule. Laoise watched with bated breath. It shook several times, then stilled with a definite "click."
Trembling, Laoise dragged herself ashore in disbelief. Her Pokédex scan confirmed it - she had just captured an Onix by sheer dumb luck. Her fear was fading to adrenaline-fueled shock at what had just transpired by sheer chance.
"Okay, I just caught an Onix."
Laoise's heart was still racing from the encounter, but a wide smile then spread across her face. She couldn't believe that she now had a rock type as part of her team.
"I caught an Onix!" Laoise exclaimed, unable to contain her elation. "This is incredible!"
Laoise released a joyous laugh, her voice echoing through the tranquil riverbank. She turned to her Pidgey and Bulbasaur, who had witnessed the capture, and saw the excitement mirrored in their eyes.
"We did it! We caught an Onix!" Laoise exclaimed, unable to contain her elation. "This is incredible!"
She sat back with the pokéball containing the ferocious rock type. "I can't believe I'd catch one so soon."
Laoise looked it over as she absentmindedly patted her other two pokèmon as a way of stimming to calm down from the adrenaline.
"Hmm, I think you guys need a nickname." she said. "You can be Bulby." she said to her bulbasaur then to her Pidgey. "And you can be Skyler."
Now what to call her new Onix?
Laoise looked at the pokéball, and an unconventional name popped into her mind.
"Goliath," she whispered, testing out the name. It felt right for such an imposing rock snake. With training and understanding, they could become veritable partners.
After all, her pokèmon team will become family to her.
Once Laoise refilled her water bottle again after filtering it properly and giving her pokèmon snacks, she recalled them, shouldered her pack and was on her way to Viridian city.
She noticed on the map there was a forest nearby the city, an opportune area for catching more wild pokèmon.
"Dixie, can you tell me what kind of pokèmon I can find in the Viridian forest?" Laoise asked her Pokédex.
"The Viridian Forest is home to many Bug type Pokémon," Dixie replied helpfully. "Common species include Caterpie, the Worm Pokémon; Weedle, the Hairy Bug Pokémon; and Pidgey. Deeper in, you may also encounter Kakuna and Metapod, the evolved forms of Caterpie and Weedle. For trainers seeking an electric type, there is a small chance of finding a Pikachu amongst the foliage."
Laoise took in the facts, pondering strategy. Bug types tended to be weak against Flying and Rock, giving her team an advantage.
Documenting everything in her Pokédex, she began formulating a careful plan of approach.
While her Flying and Rock types would gain the upper hand against common Bugs, relying on type advantage alone often proved short-sighted. A diverse team supporting different strengths and strategies would serve her best.
Perhaps Skyler's agility and bird's eye view could help scout for potential allies like Pikachu amidst the thick foliage. Bulby's pluck and Goliath's sheer presence may encourage timid forest-dwellers out in the open.
En route to Viridian city however, a sudden sound caught her attention: the flapping of wings, a lot of them.
"What's that?" Laoise wondered, she glanced up and saw what looked like an entire flock of birds in the distance flying close.
She held up Dixie. The pokèdex identified them as Spearow. "Spearow has a very loud cry that can be heard over half a mile away. If its high, keening cry is heard echoing all around, it is a sign that they are warning each other of danger.
Unlike Pidgey, Spearow has a terrible attitude. It is very wild and will sometimes attack other Pokémon and humans."
Laoise tensed a bit, trying not to hyperventilate. She'd better hide somewhere until they've flown away. She glanced around and took cover under some shrubbery.
She crouched beneath the shrubs, watching anxiously as the massive flock darkened the sky. Their cries echoed ominously through the forest - it seemed Spearow's alarming call had been roused.
"Can this day get any more crazy?" she said aloud.
Thunder rumbled in agreement with her rhetorical question. Plink! Plink! Rain began to drip down.
A storm was rolling in fast. She'd have to take shelter soon, lest the downpour leave her drenched and vulnerable to attack.
But for now she was pinned beneath the bushes, scarcely daring to breathe as hundreds of clawed talons came distressingly close overhead. One false move could arouse their territorial rage.
Laoise gently took stock of her Poké Balls, wishing for reassurance from her still new team. But forcing confrontation might endanger them all. She would need to lay low and wait for the birds to pass.
Fat droplets began to patter the leaves around her. Night was falling swiftly too. Escape would have to come soon, before the storm fully broke and visibility vanished. But how, without inciting the Spearow flock's wrath?
Her journey had hit its first test. Laoise steeled her nerves, weighing options for a safe retreat as wind and rain mounted around her hiding place.
Laoise took slow, deep breaths to calm her jangling nerves as the storm broke above. Thunder rolled closer while relentless rain pelted down, creating a din that would mask any of her movements.
Perhaps now was the time to make a calculated retreat, obscured by the downpour's noise and dimming light. The Spearow may be likely to spot lone movement amidst the chaos of the storm.
Laoise called out her stealthy Pidgey as the rain offered her cover. "Skyler, can you fly up and see which way is clear of Spearow? We have to reach the city before nightfall." she asked quietly. "Be careful up there- don't let the water wear you down," she whispered gently.
With a small nod, Skyler took wing and soared upward despite the buffeting drops, scanning through the curtain of water. Soon a chirp alerted Laoise the western path looked less thronged.
Trusting her winged scout implicitly, Laoise crept from shelter and scuttled low through shadows.
It was only the afternoon but the rain made it look like the sun had set much sooner than anticipated.
With a flutter, the Tiny Bird signaled another direction clear ahead. Trusting the scout's keen eyes, Laoise rose and followed its guidance into the thickening woods.
Here the canopy offered more shelter from the rain. Laoise remained light-footed, letting Pidgey's occasional calls from above provide direction and warning of potential Spearow ahead.
With a flutter, the Tiny Bird signaled another direction clear ahead. Trusting the scout's keen eyes, Laoise rose and followed its guidance.
She took a wrong step and fell down a small hill. Laoise got up but her left arm hurt. "Oww!"
However, something was up ahead that proved opportune: a small cave.
Bingo!
"Skyler, down here!" Laoise called her pidgey.
Skyler gracefully descended from the sky and landed beside Laoise, chirping in concern as it noticed her injured arm. Laoise smiled gratefully at her loyal Pidgey.
"Good job, Skyler. You've led us to shelter," she said, her voice filled with relief. "We better wait out the storm."
Laoise carefully made her way into the small cave, seeking refuge from the rain and wind. The cave provided a temporary respite from the storm, with its walls offering some protection from the elements. She sat down, taking a deep breath to steady herself.
Tenderly, she examined her injured arm, wincing at the pain. She reached into her bag and pulled out a small first aid kit, gently wrapping the injured arm in a bandage. Until she reached the city this will have to do.
As she tended to her injury, Laoise looked over at Skyler, who was perched nearby, watching her with concern.
She smiled softly at her loyal Pokémon.
"Don't worry, Skyler. It's just a minor injury. I'll be alright," she assured her Pidgey.
With her arm bandaged and the pain subsiding, Laoise took a moment to appreciate the serenity of the cave.
The sound of raindrops hitting the cave entrance provided a soothing rhythm, and the darkness within felt strangely comforting.
"We may be stuck here for a while until the storm passes," Laoise said to her Pidgey. "But at least we're safe and dry."
She reached into her bag and pulled out some Pokémon treats, letting out her other teammates then offering to each pokèmon with her. Skyler happily chirped and pecked at the treats, clearly appreciating the gesture. Goliath lowered his head and munched on one contently as did Bulby.
Finally the storm ends and the sky begins to clear. Laoise asked Skyler if he was up for scouting if the coast was clear.
Skyler chirped in agreement, ready to take to the skies once more. Less than five minutes later, the Pidgey returned confirming the Spearow have fled. Laoise thanked him.
As they all emerged from the cave, the fresh scent of petrichor filled the air, and the sight of Viridian City in the distance brought a sense of excitement.
Laoise recalled all three of her pokèmon and began walking the trail to the city. Best snap to it if she wanted to catch up to the other trainers who came from Pallet town and reassure her family who was still in the Bluebell Hollows.
As she admired the rainbow, she noticed a Pokémon flying through the sky. It looked like a giant bird made of the purest gold.
"What pokémon is that?" she wondered as she held up Dixie.
The young girl couldn't help but stare up in awe at the beautiful sight.
"There is no data. There are still Pokémon yet to be identified." Laoise's pokédex replied.
Oh well. She still had to get to the pokèmon center, surely her family will want to know she made it.
Even after the rainbow disappeared, Laoise found herself gazing wistfully at the empty sky. What a magical sight that golden bird had been - surely a Pokémon unlike any documented. Her journey was proving full of wonders already.
As she continued towards Viridian City, thoughts turned to her loved ones waiting with anxious hearts back home. But she also knew this adventure was about more than herself or her training - it was an opportunity to experience the world with fresh eyes, document new discoveries, and better understand all Pokémonkind.
Who knew what marvels still lay in store down this winding path? Laoise smiled with excitement and purpose. No matter the dangers she might face, her compassion and curiosity would guide her through. New friends both human and Pokémon would surely strengthen her spirit.
And perhaps, if the Maker was willing, the golden avian's sparkling form would grace her skies once more. For now, it was a beautiful mystery left at the end of a rainbow. Laoise strode on towards Viridian City and the next chapter of her odyssey, filled with wondering hope for discoveries yet to come.
To be continued…
Author's note: And that's just the first chapter, I will put fanart of Laoise later on DeviantART. Now remember everyone, if you don't comment, I literally won't know whether you liked my fic or what you hope to see.