Resurgence: Rising Ashes

by shaz15

Jake Porter never planned on staying in Pallet Town, but life has a way of changing plans. What starts as repaying a debt pulls him deeper into the world of Pokémon battles, where unexpected mentors and challenges await. As he navigates this path, Jake realizes that dreams can take root in the most unlikely places, leading him to forge a new legacy.

2. Chapter 2

A/N: Hey there! In all the excitement, I forgot to include this, so here it is. This is my first story, so I'm hoping for a good start. English isn't my first language, but I'll do my best to keep everything clear. This story is something I'm doing for fun, adding my own twist to a favorite show from my childhood. I'm not sure how often I'll be able to update due to a hectic schedule, but I'll try. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the story, and constructive feedback is most welcome! enjoy!

The sun hung high over Pallet Town, casting long shadows and filling the air with the warmth of a lazy summer day. The serene quiet of the ranch was a stark contrast to the bustling lab not far away. Here, the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional cry of a Pidgey were the only sounds that broke the stillness.

"Will you wait two seconds, you goddamn buffoons!" Jake's frustrated voice shattered the peace that had settled over the ranch.

Jake could have had a better time. As soon as he vaulted over the fence into the lake area, a heavy sack of Pokémon food slung over his shoulder, he was ambushed by a rowdy bunch of Growlithes. The five cubs, with their thick orange fur and eager eyes, swarmed around his legs, bumping into him with the enthusiasm of puppies. Each impatiently awaited him to fill the bowls he had set down just moments before.

One particularly mischievous Growlithe clamped onto the sack of food with its sharp teeth, turning the simple task into an impromptu tug-of-war. Jake pulled hard on his end, frustration mounting with each passing second. But the cub abruptly let go, causing Jake to lose his balance and land unceremoniously on his rear with a curse, wincing as he rubbed his bruised behind.

He barely had time to recover before the cubs were on him again, licking his face with their warm, rough tongues. Jake tried to stay mad, to muster up the sternness he knew he should express, but the sight of their wagging tails and wide, innocent eyes melted his resolve. A sliver of a smile crept onto his face despite his efforts to remain annoyed. He rubbed the scar on his cheek—an old habit that seemed to surface whenever he was agitated—and grumbled, though his anger had already passed.

"Okay, okay. I love you too," Jake muttered, half-heartedly pushing the cubs away. "Now, let me do my job in peace."

A sharp bark echoed across the clearing, instantly snapping the rowdy cubs to attention. They lined up obediently before their bowls, their playful demeanor replaced by disciplined focus. Jake looked up to see a majestic Arcanine padding toward him, its fiery mane rippling with each graceful step. Gary Oak's Arcanine, a towering presence with a proud posture and kind eyes, nuzzled Jake's face affectionately, earning a fond scratch behind the ears.

"Thanks, Arcanine," Jake murmured, standing beside the large Pokémon. Seeing this enormous, regal creature acting like a puppy always amused him. Arcanine had been like this from the first day they met.

Finally managing to fill the bowls, Jake gave each Growlithe a gentle pat on the head, to which they responded with happy barks.

"Think I should go feed the other one now or later?" Jake asked, his tone softening as he nudged his leg against Arcanine.

Arcanine shook his head, and Jake took that as a signal to wait.

Once the cubs had finished their meal, they gathered around Arcanine and began trotting back to their territory, barking their farewells to Jake.

"Some help you've been, Tide," Jake muttered, directing his gaze to his partner Pokémon, who was more interested in splashing around with the lake Pokémon than helping him out.

Tide, a Marshtomp, merely shrugged, sending a playful spray of water toward the Poliwags that had gathered around him. The tadpoles responded with gleeful squeals, clearly enjoying the game.

Sighing in defeat at his laid-back partner, Jake lay back on a patch of grass near the lake, his hands acting as a pillow to his head. The remnants of water sprayed by Tide relieved him of the heat and helped calm his mind, allowing him to organize his thoughts.

It had been two weeks since the day he broke into the lab, and he could admit now that he had been foolish, even if he didn't like it. When Oak asked that question, his mind had shut off in surprise. He only recalled hearing Ash laugh and seeing Gary's serious face. Little did he know at that moment that agreeing to patch things up with the professor would sign him up for what felt like slavery.

Employed by Gary, he was now the newest addition to the lab's workforce, earning a worker ID—an irony that wasn't lost on Jake. He had voiced this thought to the older man, but the researcher assured him he had taken a safety measure: a silver behemoth of a bird that watched him like prey from above every second he was outside. It never got near him, but that didn't make him feel safer. Tide, realizing his trainer's turmoil, never left his side, his Poké Ball forgotten on Jake's leather belt. To be honest, Jake tried not to give the Skarmory any reason to confront him. Although Tide had his own strengths in battle, the difference in level was still significant. The last battle had shown him just how low he was on the pecking order.

As he learned, Gary Oak was quite the Pokémon trainer back in the day, and his Pokémon hadn't lost their touch. He had only seen a few across the ranch, but that was enough. One of them popped into his mind immediately—a really angry Nidoking. Jake had just approached the Nidoran herd to take one of them to the medical clinic, but the purple beast didn't see it that way. It could be argued that the mating season didn't really help his case, with the beast hormones raging all over the place. Thankfully, Arcanine, the guardian of the ranch, took notice and fended off his teammate, but it was terrifying nonetheless.

"BEEP BEEP!"

The shrill sound of the wristband yanked Jake out of his thoughts, the red light blinking insistently. The band on his wrist had been there since day one, a constant reminder that he was on a short leash, both figuratively and literally. It served as an alert system and a GPS locator, a precaution Gary Oak implemented after the break-in. Jake might have learned his lesson, but that didn't mean Gary was taking any chances.

"Come on, Tide. Playtime's over; we're needed at the lab," Jake called, brushing off the grass clinging to his clothes. The white polo shirt and black shorts were part of the standard issue from the lab's logistics team—functional, if not exactly stylish. Jake couldn't even remember the name of the guy who handed them out. Not that it mattered.

Tide, recognizing the end of their break, reluctantly waved goodbye to the Poliwags with a playful splash before trotting up to his trainer's side. Together, they made their way back toward the main building. As they approached, Jake spotted Barry, the ranch manager, a stocky man with a bald head and a full red beard. He was repairing the fence around the Rapidash paddock, a casualty of particularly rough rapidash. Barry caught sight of Jake and waved, a warm smile on his face.

Jake returned the gesture, a small smile tugging at his lips. Barry was one of the few people at the lab he genuinely liked. When Jake first arrived, Barry showed him the ropes, teaching him the ins and outs of ranch work and how to care for the Pokémon under their charge. Most of the lab staff knew Jake's presence resulted from some screw-up, but the specifics were often left to whispers. However, Barry had never treated him with anything but respect, something Jake had come to appreciate.

Most of the lab personnel ignored Jake or offered polite greetings, wary of his sharp tongue and the ever-watchful Tide at his side. The researchers, particularly the more skittish ones, kept their distance, avoiding any interaction beyond what was necessary. It didn't bother Jake much—he preferred the solitude. Besides, he had Tide, his laid-back but loyal companion, who never left his side.

As they approached the lab, the sleek modern building starkly contrasted the ranch's natural surroundings. Its glass façade reflected the late afternoon sun, casting long shadows across the path. Jake glanced up at the structure, feeling a familiar mix of unease and resignation. This was where he'd be for the foreseeable future, paying off his debt to society—or at least to Gary Oak.

Upon entering the lab, Jake was greeted by the familiar cool, sterile air that contrasted sharply with the warm, earthy smells of the ranch. He had walked these halls countless times over the past two weeks, each time with a mix of resignation and resolution. The usual quiet hum of activity filled the background, a constant reminder of the serious work that took place here—work that felt worlds apart from his own menial tasks.

As Jake approached Gary's office, he didn't even glance at the plaques and framed photos lining the walls. He knew them well by now: snapshots of Professor Oak's achievements, images of legendary Pokémon, and famous trainers who had once passed through this place. He was painfully made aware over the last two weeks of the legacy that loomed large over Pallet Town—one that made his own situation feel small and insignificant in comparison.

After reaching Gary's office, Jake paused outside the large, reinforced steel door. The brass plaque read, "Professor Gary Oak," a title that still carried a weight he couldn't quite shake off, no matter how many times he saw it. He knocked, more out of habit than anticipation.
Jake opened the door and stepped into the office. The room was just as he remembered it: spacious but cluttered, filled with books, papers, and all manner of Pokémon-related items. Behind the large oak desk sat a woman in a crisp, white lab coat, her dark hair pulled back into a neat bun. She was probably in her late twenties, with sharp features softened only by a pair of round glasses perched on her nose. Her eyes were a deep, contemplative brown, and though her smile was polite, there was a certain weariness in her expression, as if she had spent too many late nights poring over data.

"You called, my lady?" Jake asked in an overdramatic voice as he made his way to the chair across from the woman, ensuring that Tide didn't knock anything valuable down like last time. Tide, noticing his trainer's caution, gave him a playful smack on the back, clearly unbothered.

The woman looked up, amusement dancing in her eyes as she watched their antics. Ever since Jake had started working here, the senior assistant to the professor had found her days more lively, though not always in a good way.

"Ah, you're here finally. Let me finish reading this report, and I'll be with you. And don't put your filthy boots on the desk," she added sharply as Jake's foot began to inch toward the desk. He grumbled something under his breath and put his foot down immediately.

A few minutes passed in silence, with Jake glancing at Valerie impatiently. Growing bored, he started to ring an antique bell that was placed on the desk. The harsh look Valerie shot him silenced his antics.

"Come on, Val, just spill it already. I'm bored as hell," he complained, trying to provoke a reaction from the older woman. True to form, she replied with a pointed "language" but otherwise didn't rise to the bait.

"Where's the old fart anyway?" Jake asked as Tide echoed his sentiment with a cry, drawing Valerie's attention.

Realizing she wouldn't be able to finish her report, Valerie put away her glasses and rubbed her tired eyes. She had grown fond of Jake and Tide in their short time at the lab, but they could still be a handful.

"Professor Oak is at a meeting with the other mayors of the region, but you already know that because I recall him telling you to keep out of trouble while he's away," she replied, meeting Jake's lazy gaze. "Also, Oak is my age. Are you saying I'm old?" Her sweet voice carried a hint of danger, making Jake's face flicker with panic.

"I couldn't get in trouble even if I wanted to! I've got that really stylish wristband on me, plus an overgrown metallic bird's eyes on me like a predator. Also, you're nothing like the professor; with each passing day, your beauty becomes more profound," he blurted out rapidly, with Tide nodding vigorously beside him.

"Nice save," Valerie smiled, making both Jake and Tide visibly relax.

"If we're talking about trouble, I'm not sure you're off the hook yet," Valerie added a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"What do you mean?" Jake asked, suddenly wary.

"Section A," she replied, her tone playful but firm.

"No, no, no…"

"Yes, yes, yes."

"Fuck my life…"

"Language," she reminded him, her tone stern but amused.

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The drums of war thundered in Jake's mind as he readied himself, his face set in determined resolve. His whole body tightened, poised for battle. The steel door to the server farm was the only barrier between him and his arch-enemy—a rival that had eluded him time and time again. Jake took a deep breath, calming himself before turning to his right-hand man.

"This time, we will win. This time, we shall prevail!" he declared, his voice full of vigor. Unfortunately, his sudden outburst scared the daylights out of a researcher walking behind him, engrossed in a report on his tablet. The man jumped, nearly dropping his device, while Tide, ever the realist, shook his head in disappointment.

Jake had been acting more childishly lately, a stark contrast to the hardened boy Tide had known during their time on the run. Though Tide would never admit it, he found this change welcome. The sharp, tough exterior Jake had developed while living on the streets was slowly peeling away in the more stable environment of the lab. It was almost like the boy Tide had first met was re-emerging, and while it was refreshing, it was also a bit embarrassing at times.

Noticing that Tide's head was not in the game, Jake figured it was all up to him once again. He flashed the card against the reader and silently slipped into the server farm, careful not to make any noise—a practice honed through years of surviving on the streets. The noise of Tide slapping his head in shame only encouraged Jake to glare at his partner for breaking the silence.

They moved deeper into the room, Jake sneaking behind one of the large data servers, sticking to the shadows. His enemy was already spotted—a familiar figure munching on cables, his black and yellow tail waving from side to side as he feasted. Electricity sparked from the red sacs on his cheeks.

Jake knew immediately that he had been found out when Pikachu's tail went still, standing alert like a soldier ready for battle. The little electric rodent turned its head slightly, its sharp eyes locking onto Jake.

"Block the exit, Tide! Don't let him get away this time!" Jake commanded as he moved to cover the other escape route.

This was their fifth encounter. Each time, Jake ended up getting zapped, but he had noticed early on that Pikachu's electric attacks were surprisingly weak, not because Pikachu was holding back, but because something was wrong with its power. Tide had also caught on to this, which is why he never saw Pikachu as a severe threat to Jake. Instead of engaging in a full-on battle, Tide usually just blocked the way and resigned to the routine. But Pikachu's speed? That was a whole different story.

Jake had nicknamed him the "Yellow Devil" for a reason. Pikachu was insanely fast, faster than any Pikachu Jake had ever encountered. It was something Gary laughed about every time Jake brought it up. Jake could still hear Gary's mocking tone from their last conversation about it: "A little Pikachu giving you that much trouble? Maybe you should consider retiring early."

It was infuriating, and every time Pikachu managed to slip away, Jake couldn't help but mutter, "Next time, it would be different," under his breath. However, today, things will happen differently than the last time. Jake will make sure of it.

As Pikachu sized up his opponents, his eyes darted between Jake and Tide. The rodent knew from their past encounters that Tide was immune to his electric attacks. Realizing this, Pikachu gathered that it would be difficult getting past the marshtomp, deciding that if he was going to make an escape, it would have to be through Jake's path. The yellow devil bolted toward the only available exit.

But this time, Jake was ready. He lunged, trying to grab Pikachu, but the nimble Pokémon zipped past him with a flash, leaving Jake stumbling forward. He quickly recovered, his frustration growing. "Get back here, you little shit!" Jake yelled, his voice echoing through the room.

Pikachu paused briefly, just long enough to shoot Jake a mischievous glance before darting off again. It was almost as if Pikachu enjoyed turning their encounters into a game, one where Jake was always the loser. But not today. Today, Jake had a secret weapon.

"Alright, Tide, it's time to bring out the big guns!" Jake shouted, a determined gleam in his eye. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, yellow Poké Ball with intricate circuitry running along its surface. It was an improved Poké Ball, a prototype made by the lab explicitly designed to capture electric types by harnessing their own electricity against them. Jake had "borrowed" it from Ash's house during one of the times the man was out of town, figuring it might come in handy. The older male really should look better at things he was trusted with safekeeping.

Seeing the strange Poké Ball, Pikachu's eyes widened in surprise. The rodent made a beeline for the door, but this time, Jake was ready. As Pikachu dashed toward the exit, Jake hurled the Poké Ball with all his might.

The ball sailed through the air, and just as Pikachu tried to slip past the door, it opened up with a burst of light. A magnetic pulse shot out from the ball, drawing in Pikachu's electricity. The red sacs on Pikachu's cheeks sparked uncontrollably as the energy was pulled toward the Poké Ball, temporarily binding Pikachu's movements. The little yellow devil struggled to escape the force that held him, but the Poké Ball's mechanism was too strong.

"Gotcha, you stupid mouse!" Jake exclaimed triumphantly as Pikachu was sucked into the ball, which snapped shut with a satisfying click.

Jake stood there, panting, his heart racing as the ball wobbled on the floor. He and Tide watched it intently, holding their breath. After a few tense seconds, the ball stilled, and the light on its front dimmed, indicating a successful capture.

"Yes! We did it!" Jake shouted, pumping his fist into the air. He turned to Tide, who gave him a look of equal parts pride and resignation. Jake knew Tide was secretly relieved that this chase was finally over.

As Jake picked up the Poké Ball, he couldn't help but grin. He had finally caught the elusive Pikachu. "Gotcha, you little shit," he repeated this time with a sense of accomplishment and finality.

On the other hand, Tide simply shook his head and gave Jake a playful slap on the back as if to say, It's about time.

Jake laughed, feeling lighter than he had in weeks. Maybe working at this lab wasn't so bad after all.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"I'm back," Jake called as he stepped into Ash's house, closing the red door behind him. Tide had opted to stay outside this time, drawn to the company of Ash's Blastoise, who was lazily basking in the sun in the yard.

"Welcome home," came Ash's automatic reply from the living room.

Jake's posture stiffened momentarily at the casual greeting before he forced himself to relax. Ever since he started working at the lab—his "slavery," as he liked to call it—he had been living with the older trainer as part of his housing arrangements. Initially, Jake had tried to reject this, insisting that he could fend for himself, but neither Gary nor Ash had been willing to hear it. They didn't trust him enough to let him live independently and possibly make a run for it. So Ash had offered him the spare room—his old bedroom—under the guise of keeping an eye on him. Jake had thrown a fit for a couple of days, ranting that he didn't need charity, but deep down, he was relieved.

It was alright, not worrying about where his next meal would come from or where he'd sleep each night. And he no longer had to fend off or escape from unsavory people looking to steal Tide or exploit them for any reason. While Ash could be a little harsh sometimes, especially in the beginning when he watched Jake's every move like a fearow, he was fair and respected Jake's privacy. Sure, Ash had tried to pry into his past and made some annoying remarks and deductions that hit close to home, but he was never overbearing or suffocating. After noticing Jake beginning to close off, Ash let it go. The man could still be infuriating and drove Jake up the wall at times, but overall, it wasn't as bad as Jake had initially thought. Even if, at the end of his "probation," as Ash liked to call it—a period that remained unknown to Jake—he decided to move on from Pallet Town, Jake knew he didn't belong here.

He had noticed a change in Tide, too. The Marshtomp, once just as moody and guarded as Jake, had become more active, playful, and happy overall. It was as if the time spent in a stable environment was peeling away the rugged exterior both Jake and Tide had built up over their years on the run. This change in Tide weighed on Jake's mind; seeing his partner so content made him question his own desire to leave.

"I'm freaking starving. Do we have something to eat?" Jake called as he headed into the kitchen, searching for something to fill his growling belly.

"Mrs. Foller left a meal for you on the upper shelf," Ash's voice floated over from the living room.

"God bless that woman, I swear," Jake's heart leaped in joy. Ever since meeting Mrs. Foller, his stomach had sung a happy tune. The older woman had taken a liking to him right away when Ash introduced them at the café she owned in the center of town. Whether it was out of pity or motherly instinct, Jake didn't know, but she had been feeding him regularly, and his body had filled out nicely because of it. Coupled with the work at the ranch, he'd even gained some weight and muscle, though it wasn't very noticeable yet.

Ash let out an agreeing noise, and the sound of the keyboard clicking followed, likely from typing on his laptop. Jake had noticed Ash doing this every Monday at noon. That was another thing Jake appreciated about the house's owner: Jake could swear all he wanted, and Ash wouldn't reprimand him, unlike Valerie or the matrons at the orphanage.

Jake finished the meal at an astonishing pace, placing the plate in the sink before heading to the living room. He really wanted to savor the meal, but he needed to get back to the lab in twenty minutes—his break time was almost over.

Ash was sitting on the sofa, his eyebrows arched in concentration as he rapidly typed on his laptop, which rested on his lap. He was dressed in shorts and shirtless, revealing a tanned and well-defined upper body—not from working around the house, but rather the result of years of rigorous training and battles as a Pokémon Trainer. Ash's physique was a testament to his past, filled with intense journeys and battles, rather than any menial work he did these days.

"Like, seriously, what do you work on?" Jake wondered aloud as he stood across from Ash, grabbing an apple from the fruit basket on the coffee table. He managed to snatch it just before Ash's Pikachu, who was giving him a dirty look. Jake merely smirked at the rodent.

Ash didn't look up from his screen. "Top secret stuff, kid. If I told you, I'd have to kill you."

"Yeah, right. It's probably something boring like finance. I bet you don't have a single exciting bone in your body."

"Whatever you say," Ash replied dismissively, still focused on the screen. "Pikachu, don't let him get to you."

Pikachu, who was glaring at Jake as he took a large, teasing bite of the apple, tried to defend himself but was only met with Jake sticking his tongue out at him.

"Anyway, do we have visitors or something? I noticed a pair of shoes near the front door, and they looked like women's shoes. My, my, Ashy boy, are you having fun when I'm not around?" Jake teased as he tossed the apple core at Pikachu as if doing him a favor. Pikachu didn't appreciate it, glaring daggers at him.

"We? Since when is it 'we'?" Ash began, but when he looked up, and his sharp eyes homed in on Jake's belt, his expression shifted to one of suspicion. "Where did you get that?"

"I found it."

"Really? Where?"

"You really should be careful where you leave important items, especially with a roommate with sticky fingers," Jake quipped, trying to deflect the question.

Ash's expression didn't soften. "We'll ignore, for now, the fact that you lifted something that's not yours. This is a prototype and could be really dangerous to the Pokémon you captured with it, as it's still a work in progress. And I can see from the Poké Ball button that turned black that it has a Pokémon in it."

"Relax, Mother Hen. I got permission from Valerie to use it, and she said it's safe. I wouldn't do something so reckless, would I? And besides, I finally managed to capture that yellow devil with it!" Jake boasted, a smirk on his face.

Ash sighed, shaking his head. "She really spoils you, that woman."

"You're just jealous."

Ash rolled his eyes but couldn't help the small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Just be careful with that thing, alright? And next time, try asking before you swipe something."

"Yeah, yeah," Jake muttered, though the relieved look on his face showed that he appreciated Ash's concern, even if he wouldn't admit it.

"Moreover, do you even have the OPL?" Ash asked, his tone carrying a hint of exasperation as he leaned back on the sofa, arms crossed.

Jake hesitated for a moment before pulling out a small, slightly worn card from his pocket. The card was the size of a credit card, with his name, a unique ID number, and a small photo of a much younger, less hardened version of himself. It was his Owning Pokémon License—OPL for short—the basic license required to own and care for Pokémon legally in their world. The license is obtained at the age of 12, and all kids who aspire to become trainers must pass a series of tests and evaluations. These tests measure not just their knowledge of Pokémon but also their ability to care for and bond with them. A trainer could own up to three Pokémon with this license, provided they have a sponsor—usually a parent, gym leader, or even a regional professor—who vouches for their responsibility. Any infractions by the trainer could result in consequences for the trainer and their sponsor. Every trainer was always expected to carry their OPL as proof that they were responsible enough to handle the creatures in their care. The OPL was a stepping stone—once a trainer turned fifteen and completed the necessary exams, they could upgrade to the Pokémon Trainer License (PTL), which granted them more freedom and responsibilities.

Jake handed the card over to Ash, who scrutinized it carefully. "You know, if you lose this, it's not just a slap on the wrist. The league takes this stuff seriously. And since I'm technically responsible for you, catching that Pikachu could land me in quite a bit of trouble," Ash remarked, handing the card back.

"Yeah, yeah, I know," Jake muttered as he stuffed the license back into his pocket. "It's not like I've ever been careless with it. And it wouldn't be a problem for you if I didn't register him yet, especially since this Poké Ball isn't registered to me."

Ash raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced but letting the subject drop. "Just making sure. The last thing you need is to get into more trouble."

Jake scoffed, but there was a hint of something softer beneath his usual act. He knew Ash was right, even if he didn't want to admit it out loud.

Ash leaned forward slightly, a curious look in his eyes. "Speaking of licenses, Tide's always with you, but you never really mentioned your official starter. Who did you get through the standard process?"

Jake tensed slightly at the question, glancing out the window at Tide, who was lounging contentedly on the ground, oblivious to the conversation. The Marshtomp had been with Jake through thick and thin, but he wasn't Jake's officially obtained starter. He was something more—a partner Jake had chosen himself, albeit in a less-than-traditional manner.

"Tide isn't my official starter," Jake admitted quietly, his voice losing some of its usual sharpness. "I... I kinda found him. Or maybe he found me. I dunno. It's a long story."

Ash nodded, his expression easing as he picked up on the shift in Jake's tone. "I see. Well, whatever the story is, you two seem to be a good team. But we'll talk about this later."

"I know, but in the meantime, I'm going to take a bath before the rest of my shift," Jake replied, his tone dismissive as he turned to head toward his room.

Jake walked down the narrow hallway of Ash's house, the wooden floorboards creaking softly under his feet. The walls were adorned with framed photographs, capturing moments from Ash's long and storied journey as a Pokémon trainer—pictures of him with his friends, his Pokémon, and various champions he'd faced. Jake's eyes skimmed over them, barely registering the smiling faces and triumphant poses. His mind was elsewhere.

He reached the door to his room and pushed it open, stepping into the small space that had once been Ash's bedroom. The room was modest, with a single bed pushed up against one wall, a small wooden desk beneath a window, and a dresser that had seen better days. The walls were painted a pale blue, faded and chipped in places, with a few old posters of legendary Pokémon trainers still clinging stubbornly to the plaster. It was clear that the room hadn't changed much since Ash was a boy, and there was a sense of history embedded in every corner—a history that wasn't Jake's.

Jake tossed his bag onto the bed and sat down beside it, the mattress sagging slightly under his weight. His gaze drifted around the room, taking in the few personal items he had. There was a worn duffle bag on the floor, half-unzipped and spilling out some items he had collected. A small pile of books and a sketchbook were stacked neatly on the desk, the only real signs that anyone lived there. But even those felt temporary, as if Jake could pack them up and leave at a moment's notice.

He hadn't settled in, not really. He told himself it was because he didn't plan on staying in Pallet Town any longer than necessary, but deep down, he knew it was more than that. There was a part of him that was afraid to put down roots, to become comfortable in a place that still felt foreign to him. The uncertainty of his future, the lingering doubts about whether he belonged here, gnawed at him constantly.

Jake sighed and ran a hand through his unruly hair, his fingers brushing against the scar on his cheek. He looked down at the few clothes he had, folded neatly in the dresser, and realized how little he owned. Most of his belongings were practical, meant for survival rather than comfort. The idea of staying in one place long enough to accumulate more felt alien to him.

Shaking off the unease that was creeping in, Jake grabbed a towel and a change of clothes from the dresser. He slung them over his shoulder and headed out of the room, his footsteps echoing in the quiet hallway. He passed by more of Ash's memories—old badges displayed in a frame, a photo of Ash with his Pikachu on his shoulder, and a dusty trophy from one of the regional tournaments. It was clear that Ash had lived a life full of adventure, a life that Jake couldn't quite relate to, no matter how much he tried.

Jake pushed open the bathroom door, not bothering to knock, his mind still preoccupied with lingering thoughts from his room. The sound of running water and the soft hum of someone singing a tune hit him all at once, but it took a few seconds for his brain to register what that meant. When he did, his eyes widened in horror.

Standing in the shower, with her back facing him, was a woman with long, fiery orange hair cascading down her back. Her hair was wet, clinging to her skin as she turned to see who had barged in on her. Her striking blue eyes locked onto Jake, widening in surprise before narrowing into a glare that could have melted steel.

Jake froze, his brain stuttering to a halt as he tried to process the situation. The woman—who was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful people he'd ever seen—quickly wrapped a towel around herself, her expression shifting from shock to fury in an instant.

"Who the hell are you?!" she yelled, her voice echoing off the tiled walls, sharp and furious.

Jake's fight-or-flight instinct kicked in, and flight won by a landslide. "Sorry! I didn't know—! I swear I didn't—!" His words tumbled out in a panicked rush as he stumbled backward, nearly tripping over his own feet in his haste to escape.

The woman took a step forward, her glare intensifying. "I ask again, who are you?!"

"I'm nobody—I mean, I'm not nobody, but I didn't mean to—!" Jake's brain was working at a fraction of its average speed, the only coherent thought being get out, get out, get out.

That was all the encouragement Jake needed. He bolted out of the bathroom, slamming the door behind him as if that could shield him from the wrath that was surely coming. His heart pounded in his chest as he sprinted down the hallway, his mind racing with thoughts of impending doom.

"Why does this stuff always happen to me?" he groaned, cursing his luck as he reached the end of the hallway. He could still hear her furious shouts from the bathroom, and he knew he wouldn't be safe until he put as much distance between them as possible.

Jake burst into the living room, practically skidding to a halt. Ash looked up from his laptop, his eyebrows raised in curiosity at the sight of Jake's panicked expression and the frantic way he was trying to catch his breath.

"Everything alright?" Ash asked, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Jake, still catching his breath, shot Ash a look that was equal parts mortified and desperate. "Why didn't you tell me there was someone in the shower?!"

Ash chuckled, clearly enjoying Jake's predicament. "I figured you'd use that noggin of yours and knock before. Guess I gave you too much credit."

"She's gonna kill me!" Jake groaned, running his hands through his hair in exasperation.

"Probably," Ash said, leaning back in his chair with a lazy grin. "But hey, on the bright side, at least you've got a memorable first impression going for you. Not many people can say they've walked in on a Gym Leader like that."

"Gym Leader?!" Jake's eyes widened in realization. "Oh, I'm so dead."

Ash nodded, still amused. "Yep. You just met Cerulean Gym Leader Misty Waterflower in the flesh. We go way back, and she's here for a visit. Didn't think you two would meet under such… interesting circumstances, though."

Jake groaned, burying his face in his hands. "I'm dead. She's going to kill me."

Ash chuckled. "Nah, she won't kill you. She'll probably just make you wish she had. But look on the bright side—now you've got a great story to tell. Just, you know, maybe wait until she's cooled off a bit before you start telling it."

Jake shot him a look of pure disbelief. "You're enjoying this way too much."

Ash grinned, not bothering to hide his amusement. "What can I say? It's not every day someone gets on Misty's bad side within seconds of meeting her. Welcome to the club, kid."

Jake sighed dramatically, rubbing his face as if trying to wipe away the embarrassment. "So, your girlfriend always showers without locking the door?"

Ash arched an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "Girlfriend? Please. I value my sanity as it is."

Jake was about to fire back when he heard the unmistakable sound of Misty's footsteps coming down the stairs. His eyes widened in sheer panic. "Oh, no. She's coming. I'm dead."

Ash glanced toward the hallway, then back at Jake with a grin that said he was having the time of his life. "You might want to make yourself scarce, kid. I'd say you've got about five seconds before she finds you, and something tells me she's not going to be in a forgiving mood."

"Fuck, fuck, fuck!" Jake cursed, scrambling to his feet and darting for the garden door. He didn't even bother to look back as he bolted outside, practically stumbling in his rush to get away.

As Jake burst into the garden, he spotted Tide lounging by the fountain, looking entirely at ease. "Tide, we're getting the hell out of here—now!" Jake's voice was frantic as he quickly recalled Tide to his Poké Ball. He didn't wait to see if Misty was on his heels; he was already sprinting toward the lab like his life depended on it.

Inside the house, Ash could barely contain his laughter as Misty finally reached the bottom of the stairs, now wearing a matching red top and shorts, her hair still slightly damp and her expression a mix of irritation and amusement. "Where's that little brat?" she demanded, though there was a hint of a smile tugging at her lips.

Ash, still grinning, leaned back on the sofa. "Jake? Oh, he suddenly remembered he had some urgent business at the lab. Took off faster than Brock when he saw a pretty lady. I think you might've, uh, left a lasting impression."

Misty crossed her arms, shaking her head, still a bit irritated but with a hint of amusement. "He's lucky he ran when he did. I was this close to giving him a piece of my mind. Though… I might've gone easy on him. Maybe."

Ash chuckled, recalling the scene. "You should've seen his face when he realized who you were. I've never seen anyone go from completely clueless to terrified so fast. You've definitely got a talent for that, Misty."

Misty sighed but couldn't stop a small smile from forming. "I guess you can say it was entertaining."

Ash just chuckled. "The understatement of the century. Pure gold."

Misty gave Ash a light, playful nudge. "You're having a blast,aren't you?"

Ash flashed a broad smile, unable to hide his amusement. "What can I say? Life's never dull with Jake around."

Misty leaned against the doorframe, her arms still crossed as she watched Ash. "So, what's the story with this kid? You don't usually bring strays home."

Ash closed his laptop, meeting her gaze. "I've only known Jake for a couple of weeks, so I'm still piecing it together myself. He's got some baggage, that's for sure. But it's not my story to tell, even if I could guess some of it."

Misty raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Baggage, huh? You think he's trouble?"

Ash shrugged, leaning back in his chair. "He's rough around the edges and has that reckless streak—like he thinks he's got all the answers. Reminds me of myself a bit."

Misty's expression softened with a knowing smile. "Like someone who thought he could take on the world and never look back?"

Ash chuckled, nodding. "Yeah, something like that. He's got guts, though. I just hope he learns before he gets in too deep."

Misty smiled faintly, understanding the implication. "You've always had a knack for seeing potential where others don't. Just don't make it too easy for him."

Ash shook his head, still smiling. "Oh, I won't. Trust me, the kid's got to earn his keep. But there's something about him… I think he could surprise us all if he sticks around long enough."

Misty pushed off the doorframe, walking over to the sofa where Ash sat. "You've changed, Ash. I'm not sure what it is, but it's different."

Ash glanced at her, his smile more reflective now. "People grow, Misty. That's life."

She nodded, a thoughtful look crossing her face. "Yeah, I guess they do." There was a pause, a moment of shared history lingering between them, before Misty broke the silence. "Just don't get too soft on him. He won't need the training wheels if he's as tough as you say."

Ash's smile widened, his eyes lighting up with mischievousness. "Don't worry. I'm not planning on making anything easy for him. He'll get the same treatment I did—trial by fire."

Misty laughed softly, shaking her head as she turned to leave the room. "Sounds like he's in for a wild ride."

As she walked away, Ash watched her for a moment, memories flickering briefly in his mind. But he pushed them aside, focusing instead on the present. Jake was a handful, sure, but Ash had a feeling the kid would shake things up in ways none of them could predict.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Jake bolted from Ash's house, his legs carrying him as fast as they could. His face was flushed red, partly from the physical exertion but mostly from the embarrassment of walking in on Misty. He tried to shake the image from his mind, cursing his luck and Ash equally. Maybe he should steer clear of the house for a while, perhaps even sleep outside tonight. There was no telling how long the redheaded Gym Leader planned to stay, and the last thing he wanted was another awkward encounter. Or death.
"Bet Ash knew this would happen," Jake muttered under his breath as he continued his run. His earlier panic about Misty's wrath faded, replaced by the challenge that awaited him at the lab. His thoughts whirred, jumping between his encounter with Misty and the electric mouse currently occupying the sleek yellow Poké Ball in his hand. Valeri, instructed by Oak, gave the prototype ball to Jake after the professor took pity on his failed attempts to capture the troublesome Pikachu that had been wreaking havoc around the lab.

The midday sun bore down on Pallet Town as Jake's hurried steps took him past familiar sights—a few villagers, some Pokémon lounging under the shade, and the ever-present buzz of life in the small town. He barely registered the concerned greeting from Mr. Darren, who waved at him from his garden.
"Hey, Jake! Everything alright?" Mr. Darren called out, but Jake only gave a brief nod, his mind too preoccupied to stop.

As he rounded a corner, he caught the tail end of a conversation between two trainers leaning against a fence.
"...Pallet Town's team really flunked their chance at promotion this off-season."
The snippet barely registered in his mind, and he filed it away for later inquiry before pushing it aside. His focus shifted back to the Pokémon that had been the bane of his existence for the past few days. Pikachu was faster than any Pikachu Jake had seen—aside from his roommate's partner—but its electrical power was a disappointment, nothing like the experienced and mighty Pikachu that had fought alongside Ash for years. Though quick and spirited, this one had weak zaps and seemed almost… defective.

Jake wasn't really sure what the problem was, but he didn't think that a healthy breed of this species could have such low capacity.

Finally reaching the lab, Jake's feet skidded on the gravel as he made his way to a quiet clearing on the ranch, a place where he could have some privacy and silence to collect his running thoughts.

He released Tide first, the Marshtomp appearing with his usual laid-back demeanor, looking around curiously before turning his attention to Jake.
"Alright, Tide, let's see if we can figure this out," Jake muttered, holding up the yellow Poké Ball. It was Gary's prototype, and as such, Pikachu technically still belonged to Gary. But Jake had been considering asking Gary to let him keep the little troublemaker—if Pikachu could prove it was worth the effort.

Jake pressed the button on the Poké Ball, and in a flash of light, Pikachu materialized before them. The electric mouse shot Jake a glare, its fur bristling with annoyance. Pikachu clearly wasn't thrilled about being captured, and it was evident that the Pokémon didn't appreciate the situation it was in.

Jake crouched down, meeting Pikachu's eyes. "Look, I didn't plan on catching you. Hell, I only wanted to capture you because you were causing so much trouble at the lab. But now… I'm considering if you might be worth keeping around. The problem is, you're not exactly living up to the reputation of a Pikachu. Your speed is great, and your control is average, if I say so myself, but your power? non-existent."

Pikachu huffed and sparked, letting out a small bolt that zapped Jake's hand. It stung, a numbing sensation spreading through his fingers, but it wasn't anything serious. The attack was still weak, just like before.

"You see what I mean?" Jake said, rubbing his hand. "That's not going to cut it. You've got speed, but you won't make it very far if you can't pack a punch."

Pikachu's eyes narrowed, clearly offended by the critique. It let out another bolt, slightly more potent this time, but it still didn't faze Jake. He was beginning to wonder if Pikachu had any real potential or if it was simply a one-trick type—a fast Pokémon with little to no electrical power wasn't really what he had in mind.

Tide, sensing the tension, stepped forward and made his presence known. The Marshtomp seemed to remind the yellow-furred Pokémon of the power gaps between them, though Pikachu only responded with a defiant squeak and a flick of its tail.

Jake sighed, standing up and crossing his arms. "Listen, Pikachu, if you've got any real talent at all, I'd like to see it and help you improve. If not, I'll have to let Gary know that I can't be having a Pokémon that's lame."

Pikachu's ears twitched at that, and it scowled at Jake, its eyes narrowing with hate. Never mind that—the idea of being owned by this human wasn't sitting well with it, but the way Jake said the word "lame" as if it was defective sparked something in the Pokémon—a need to prove itself, even if just to spite the human and make him pay.

Pikachu let out a battle cry and charged up its electricity, firing a bolt straight at Jake. Tide, reacting faster than his lazy attitude suggested, stood in front of his trainer. As expected, the attack barely phased the Marshtomp, but it was more substantial than before—still weak, but there was a bit more power behind it.

"See what I mean?" Jake goaded, trying to get a reaction.

He observed Pikachu closely, his eyes searching for something beyond the irritation and defiance he saw in the little rodent's expression. He knew there had to be more to Pikachu than just speed and stubbornness, but he needed to see that perseverance—the kind of grit that wouldn't let a weak zap define its potential. To never give up.

Pikachu, however, seemed more interested in sulking than proving anything. Its back was still turned to Jake, and its tail flicked with irritation, clearly unimpressed with its current situation.

"Alright, listen up," Jake started, his voice firm but edged with a hint of the frustration he was feeling. "I get it—you don't like this situation, and honestly, I didn't plan on ending up with you either. But it is what it is, so how about we make a deal?"

Pikachu's ear twitched, a small sign that it was at least listening, even if it wasn't going to turn around and acknowledge Jake just yet.

"For the next two weeks, I'm going to try to help you get better. We going to figure out why your electrical power is so weak. You give me your best effort, and I'll do the same. After that, we'll see where we stand. If it works out, you may stick around. If not, well… we'll cross that bridge when we get to it."

Pikachu slowly turned to face Jake, its eyes narrowing suspiciously. The little electric rodent wasn't entirely convinced by the offer, but something in Jake's no-nonsense tone seemed to strike a chord. Pikachu let out a slight, reluctant nod, though it still looked far from pleased.

"Good," Jake said, nodding back. "We start tomorrow, bright and early, before I need to leave for the lab. Also, if you're going to stick around, you're going to need a name."

Pikachu's eyes widened at the suggestion, and it immediately let out a sharp warning. Jake, seeing the reaction, couldn't help but smirk. This was the kind of fiery spirit he was hoping for. Maybe there was hope.

"Oh, come on, don't be like that," Jake teased, the mischievous grin spreading across his face. "How about… zapper?"

The suggestion was met with an immediate zap from Pikachu, who managed to catch Jake off guard. The shock was as weak as before, but it still surprised him. Jake yelped, stumbling back as the numbing sensation spread through his body. He laughed despite the discomfort, rubbing the spot where Pikachu's electricity had hit.

"Alright, alright! No nicknames… for now," Jake conceded, raising his hands in mock surrender. "But don't think this is over. We'll find something that suits you."

Pikachu huffed, clearly satisfied with the discomfort he managed to inflict on the dumb human, and turned away again, a distinct air of smugness in the way it held its head high.

Tide, who had been watching the exchange with quiet amusement, stepped forward and gave Pikachu a gentle nudge as if reminding it not to push his luck. Pikachu responded with a defiant squeak and a flick of its tail but didn't zap Tide—perhaps knowing better than to challenge the resistant Marshtomp.

Jake shook his head, a wry smile on his face as he watched the interaction. "You're a salty little rodent, aren't you? But I guess that's better than being a pushover."

"Good," Jake said, standing up to his full height and dusting off his hands. "Let's head back to the lab. We've got a lot to figure out, and I'm not about to let you off easy."

As they made their way back toward the lab, Jake's mind was already racing with plans for the next two weeks. He didn't know if Pikachu would end up being the powerhouse he hoped for, but he was determined to give it his all. And maybe, just maybe, Pikachu would prove that it was more than just a swift, troublemaking rodent.

But before they reached the lab, Jake couldn't resist one last tease. "Oh, and by the way, I'm still going to find a name for you. How about… sparkles?"

Pikachu shot him a glare that could melt steel and let out another zap, this one hitting its mark perfectly. Jake yelped again, laughing despite the sting. "Okay, okay, maybe not sparkles!"

Tide chuckled beside him, clearly enjoying the banter between Jake and Pikachu. The Marshtomp seemed to understand that this was the beginning of something different—a new challenge, maybe even a new friendship. But it wouldn't be easy, and Jake knew that. He wouldn't have it any other way.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Jake leaned back in Gary Oak's oversized leather chair, his legs kicked up on the desk, and his fingers absentmindedly drumming against the armrest. The office was dimly lit, and the soft hum of machinery and the occasional clicking of the clock on the wall behind him were the only sounds breaking the silence. Tide was napping peacefully on the floor next to Jake, his rhythmic breathing adding a soothing rhythm to the quiet room. Pikachu, after a war of attrition, had reluctantly agreed to be recalled and was now nestled in his Poké Ball, which lay gleaming on the desk under the muted light.

As Jake sat there, his mind began to wander. The office, with its rows of books and scattered research papers, felt like a world away from the streets he'd gotten used to over the past two years. It was strange how quickly things had changed. A few weeks ago, he'd been living hand to mouth, always on the move, never able to rest for fear of what might happen if he let his guard down. Now, here he was, sitting in the chair of one of the most respected professors in the region, living in a place where he didn't have to constantly watch his back.

But that sense of security came with its own set of challenges. The tranquility of Pallet Town was almost suffocating. For someone like Jake, who was used to a more chaotic way of life, the quiet could be as unsettling as the constant noise of the city. Here, there was too much time to think, too much time to question his next steps. He found himself wrestling with a decision that had been troubling him ever since he stumbled upon this small town: Should they opt to stay in Pallet Town and try to make something of this new life that was being offered to him, a life that was one of the few positive things he'd experienced in a long time? Or should he leave, returning to the familiar uncertainty, where he was free but always at risk?

The idea of staying wasn't entirely unappealing. There was a certain peace to this place, a sense of purpose that he hadn't felt in a long time. Working at the lab, helping out around the ranch—it was a life he'd never imagined for himself, but it wasn't bad. It was stable. It was safe. But was that enough? Would it really satisfy him?

His thoughts drifted back to his childhood dreams. He'd always wanted to be a top-tier trainer, to compete in the Premier League, to be part of one of the best teams out there. The idea of fame, of having his name known across the region, of having power—that had driven him for as long as he could remember. But that dream seemed so far away now, almost like it belonged to someone else. The world of Pokémon battling has changed so much over the years. It wasn't just about individual strength and strategy anymore; it was about professional teams, leagues, sponsorships, and the politics that came with them. If in the past it was all about journeying through the region, collecting badges, and competing in the regional tournament for fame, now people were competing at the regionals just to get a chance at being drafted into a position of prestige, money, and the top level of competition—hoping to be one of the few who made it to the big leagues, the Premier League.

It was a different game now, one that seemed almost impossible to break into, especially for a penniless brat like him who could barely afford to feed his Pokémon, never mind training them to the top level. The world now really favored the rich, Jake thought bitterly, a sour taste filling his mouth. Maybe it was time to talk to Oak—a raise from the pittance he was paid could really help.

Then there was… him. His childhood friend, the one who had always been one step ahead, the one who had made it into the top academy of Kanto, passing tests that even the most privileged kids struggled with—a talent the examiner had never seen before, according to the rumors. Jake had been left behind. The gap between them had only widened over the years, and now it seemed like an insurmountable chasm. Jake couldn't even bring himself to say his name—the bitterness was too raw, too real. It wasn't that he hated the boy, but jealousy reared its ugly head every time his friend came to mind. He'd lost count of how many times he wondered: Could he really catch up? Could he even find a way to make a step toward his ambition?

Jake sighed, rubbing his eyes as he tried to push the thoughts away. It was easier to just focus on the present, to take things one day at a time, but he couldn't ignore the pull of his old dreams, the desire to be more than just another face in the crowd.

He glanced down at Tide, who was still sleeping soundly, entirely at ease. "What do you think, Tide?" he muttered, more to himself than to the Pokémon. "Should we stay here? Play it safe? Or should we risk it all for a shot at something bigger?"

Tide's only response was a soft snore, his tail flicking slightly in his sleep. Jake couldn't help but smile at that. It was typical of Tide—always relaxed, always taking things in stride. Maybe that was the answer. Perhaps he needed to just go with the flow for a while and see where this path led him. But the uncertainty still gnawed at him—the fear of wasting his days and Tide's potential, of missing out on something more significant.

His musings were interrupted by the sound of the office door sliding open. Gary Oak stepped in, looking tired and slightly disheveled, as if the weight of the world had been pressing down on him all day.
"Man, that was exhausting," Gary muttered, running a hand through his hair before his eyes landed on Jake. "And what the hell are you doing in my chair? Get your ass out of there."

Jake smirked but swung his legs off the desk, standing up with exaggerated slowness. "Just keeping it warm for you, old man. How was the meeting? Boring, I assume?"

Gary rolled his eyes, plopping down in his chair and stretching his legs. "You have no idea. Those guys would talk all year long if they could. Anyway, what have you been up to? Hopefully not causing more trouble."

Jake chuckled, leaning against the desk casually. "Actually, I've got something to show you. Managed to catch that pesky Pikachu that's been causing havoc around here."

Gary raised an eyebrow, his tiredness momentarily forgotten. "You did? How'd you pull that off?"

Jake shrugged, a hint of pride in his voice. "Used that prototype Poké Ball you guys gave me."

Gary leaned forward, a teasing smile on his face. "So the great Yellow Devil has been finally caught, huh?"

Jake straightened his posture, his hands at his side, and he eyed Gary as the researcher leaned back into his chair, an easy smile on his face. Despite the professor's relaxed demeanor, he looked more worn out than usual; dark bags under his eyes showed his exhaustion. But there was still a glint of curiosity in his eyes when Jake mentioned the Pikachu.

"So, about that Pikachu," Jake began, his tone more serious now. "I want to ask you for something."

Gary raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "Oh? What's on your mind, kiddo?"

Jake hesitated for a moment, trying to find the right words. "I want two weeks. Two weeks to work with Pikachu and see if I can help him get stronger. I know he's not mine technically, but there's something there, something that just needs to be unlocked. And… if I can manage that, I'd like to transfer him to me."

Gary's expression shifted from curiosity to contemplation. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest as he considered Jake's request. "You know that Pikachu's a handful, right? He's been causing trouble around the lab for weeks. Are you sure you can handle him? And putting aside the ownership of Pikachu and registration for you, that prototype Poké Ball is not exactly a standard item. It's a gift from one of my grandfather's friends. I'll need to get his permission before I agree to hand it out."

Jake nodded. "I get that. I'll accept whatever you decide, but I've already had a few encounters with him, and I think I'm starting to understand how he ticks. He's not just some nuisance. It's a long shot, but I really think there's more to him."

Gary observed Jake in the stretching silence, noting the determination in his eyes—a trait he'd seen in only the most exceptional trainers. However, this request felt deeper, as though Jake was searching for someone to believe in him.

"You're serious about this, aren't you?" Gary finally asked, his gaze calculating.

Jake nodded firmly. "Yeah, I am. It's a big ask, but I'm confident it's what I need."

Gary sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Alright, you've got two weeks. But if Pikachu doesn't show progress or if things don't work out, we'll have to reconsider. As for the transfer, we'll discuss that afterward. Fair?"

Jake's rare smile mixed relief with excitement. "Fair. Thanks, Professor. I won't let you down."

Gary nodded, smiling slightly. "I hope not. You've got your work cut out for you, but I've got a feeling you might just pull it off. And remember—you're not alone. If you need help, you know where to find me, and Ash, if he's not too busy."

"Seriously, what does he do for a living?" Jake asked, relaxing as the tension began to fade.

Gary smirked, clearly enjoying the mystery. "That's a secret."

Jake groaned, rolling his eyes. "You two really enjoy this, don't you?"

Feigning hurt, Gary placed a hand dramatically over his chest. "You wound me. What happened to 'Professor?'"

Jake shrugged, a grin tugging at his lips. "We were cool, but then you ruined it."

Gary shook his head, pretending to be disappointed. "Youngsters these days, no respect. Anyway, Barry told me you haven't fed the problematic one yet."

Jake's playful demeanor faded as reality set in. "Do I really have to?" he whined, his voice taking on a tone of genuine pleading. Gary had never heard this side of Jake before, and it reminded him that despite the boy's rough exterior, Jake was still just a fourteen-year-old kid, capable of being rattled.

"I'm afraid so, kid. I can't have someone under my care mistreated, especially when this job was entrusted to me." Gary stood up from the chair, motioning for Jake to follow him. The teen reluctantly recalled Tide to his Poké Ball and clipped it next to Pikachu's on the old black belt Ash had given him.

"I know, but he's a mean son of a—" Jake started, only to be interrupted by a sharp whistle from Gary.

It took barely ten seconds before the mighty Arcanine appeared, its muscular legs moving with a grace that was almost unsettling. The Pokémon slowed down as it approached them, its movements so light and silent that Jake couldn't help but marvel at the sheer elegance of the creature. Arcanine's stealthy approach was a reminder of how well-trained and powerful Gary's Pokémon were, and it sent a shiver down Jake's spine. The thought of such a beast sneaking up on someone without a sound was terrifying.

All of Gary and Ash's Pokémon were like that, Jake mused silently. Each one had its own unique talent, mastered to perfection. It was a humbling reminder of just how out of his depth he was when he first met them.

As they walked toward the scheduled part of the ranch, Gary's Nidoking came into view, standing guard near the enclosure. The massive Pokémon was alert, its piercing gaze locked onto a Growlithe on the other side of the fence. But this wasn't any ordinary Growlithe. Its fur was a reversed color scheme—black with vivid orange stripes—and its eyes were a deep, unsettling red, full of rage and fury.

The Growlithe snarled, pacing back and forth like a caged animal. Its gaze never left Nidoking, and the intensity of its anger was palpable. Jake could feel fear creeping up his spine as he looked at the creature. This was the Growlithe that had been entrusted to Gary by the police—a Pokémon that had been the subject of cruel experiments designed to create an 'Alpha' Pokémon. The result was a beast faster, stronger, and more durable than any other Growlithe, but also one that was wild, dangerous, and filled with murderous intent.

The police had found it in an underground lab during a raid, where it had been subjected to genetic modifications and torturous conditioning. The report Gary showed Jake mentioned how this experiment aimed to maximize a species' potential, producing an unstoppable Pokémon. But in doing so, they had also created a creature that saw everything and everyone as an enemy. The Growlithe had been impossible for the police to control—a cornered wild beast that lashed out at anything within reach. When the police realized they couldn't handle it, they came to Gary as a last resort, hoping he could find a way to rehabilitate the Pokémon.

"Here we are," Gary said, breaking the heavy silence. His tone was calm, but Jake could sense the underlying tension.

Jake swallowed hard, his bravado fading as he stared at the furious Growlithe. Despite his usual cocky attitude, there was real fear in him whenever he had to deal with this Pokémon, and nothing had improved since their first encounter.

"I really have to do this?" Jake muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

Gary placed a reassuring hand on Jake's shoulder. "Yeah, you do. But remember, you're not alone. Arcanine and Nidoking are here to keep things in check. You just need to deliver the food."

Jake nodded, though the fear didn't leave his eyes. He moved cautiously toward the fence, the food bowl trembling slightly in his hands. The Growlithe's eyes locked onto him, its growl deepening as he approached. Jake's heart raced, but he forced himself to keep moving, knowing that showing any more fear would only make things worse.

As he placed the food inside the enclosure, the Growlithe lunged forward, teeth bared, but Nidoking stepped in front of it with a warning growl of its own, effortlessly blocking the attack. Arcanine stayed close to Jake, ready to intervene if necessary, but for now, it simply watched the scene with calm vigilance.

Filling the bowl as fast as he could, Jake quickly stepped back and retreated to where Gary stood. "I don't think I'll ever get used to that," he admitted, trying to steady his breathing.

Gary gave him a small smile, one that held both understanding and encouragement. "You did good, Jake. It's not easy, but it's necessary. This Growlithe's been through hell, but with time and patience, we might be able to help him. Just keep at it."

Jake nodded, still shaken but a little more confident. "Yeah, I'll keep at it," he replied, glancing back at the Growlithe, who was now devouring the food with a ferocity that made Jake glad he was on the other side of the fence.

As they turned to leave, Jake couldn't help but ask, "What's the plan for him, though? Is there really hope?"

Gary paused, considering his answer. "There's always hope, Jake. It won't be easy, but we'll do everything we can. And who knows? Maybe one day, Growlithe will be as loyal and strong as Arcanine here. But for now, we take it one step at a time."

Jake nodded, absorbing the words. He glanced at Arcanine, who was still silently watching over them, and felt a small surge of hope. Maybe there was a chance after all, and if the violent Pokémon could change, maybe so could he.

As they walked back to the central part of the ranch, the heavy atmosphere slowly began to lift, replaced by the calm, reassuring presence of Arcanine by his side.

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As Jake trudged along the dirt path leading to Ash's house, his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, each more confusing than the last. The encounter with Growlithe had left him rattled, not just because of the Pokémon's ferocity but because of what Gary had told him afterward. The professor had approached him with a seriousness Jake rarely saw, explaining that his probation period was officially over. Jake had repaid his debt, and Gary made it clear that he was free to leave Pallet Town if he wished.

"You're free to go, Jake," Gary had said, his tone calm but firm. "You've more than repaid your debt, and if you want to move on, no one will stop you. But... if you want to stay, I can offer you a part-time position at the lab. It won't be much at first, but you'll be paid, and you can keep working with the Pokémon."

The offer had caught Jake off guard. For the first time in what felt like years, he was faced with a real choice—one that didn't involve running or survival but staying in one place and building something. The idea was both terrifying and strangely appealing. Could he really see himself settling down here, in Pallet Town of all places? Working at the lab and living in Ash's house... was a far cry from the life he'd known on the streets, but maybe that was precisely what he needed.

But the doubts crept in, gnawing at the edges of his resolve. Staying meant committing to something, and commitment was a foreign concept to Jake. What if he failed? What if he wasn't cut out for this life? The thought of disappointing Gary, Ash, and even himself was almost too much to bear.

As he approached the familiar red door of Ash's house, Jake was so lost in thought that he almost walked right past it. He stopped short, suddenly realizing where he was, and his heart leaped into his throat. Misty. The last time he had seen her, he had been bolting out of the house after accidentally walking in on her in the shower. The memory sent a flush of embarrassment through him, and he cursed himself for not thinking about it sooner.

"Great," he muttered under his breath, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "Just what I need."

Gathering what little courage he had left, Jake took a deep breath and pushed the door open, stepping inside with as much courage as he could muster. The house was quiet; the only sound was the ticking of a clock on the wall and the faint clatter of dishes in the kitchen.

"Welcome back, Jake," Ash's voice called from the living room, casual and relaxed as always.

Jake's hands started to sweat as he walked toward the source of the voice, his mind racing with possibilities. What if Misty was still angry? What if she decided to make him a human-shaped popsicle?

As he rounded the corner into the living room, he saw Ash sitting on the couch, his laptop open in front of him. And there, standing beside him with her arms crossed, and a wicked smirk on her face, was Misty.

"Well, well, look who's finally back," she said, her tone playful but with an edge that made Jake swallow hard. "You were in such a hurry to leave earlier. I didn't get the chance to properly thank you for the... interesting introduction."

Jake felt his cheeks heat up, and he stammered out an apology, his words tumbling over each other in his haste. "I-I swear I didn't mean to—"

But he stopped midsentence when the red-haired woman took a menacing step toward him. He closed his eyes, mumbling a prayer to whatever god was listening.

A soft laugh stopped him in the middle of his prayer. "Relax, Jake. I'm not going to freeze you solid... this time." She let the threat hang in the air for a moment before her expression softened into a grin. "But seriously, next time, try knocking first."

Jake exhaled the breath he didn't realize he was holding, relief flooding through him. "Noted," he mumbled, still feeling the remnants of his earlier embarrassment.

Misty chuckled, shaking her head as she grabbed her bag from the floor. "Well, it's been fun, Ash. But I've got to get back to Cerulean. The gym won't run itself."

Ash stood up, giving Misty a quick hug. "It was great seeing you, Misty. Don't be a stranger."

"Wouldn't dream of it," she replied with a wink, glancing at Jake one last time before heading toward the door. "And you, try to stay out of trouble, alright?"

Jake managed a nod, watching as she left the house. The door clicked shut behind her, and for a moment, the house was silent again. All of Jake's nervousness evaporated as he felt the tension lifted from his shoulders. This had turned out better than he expected.

As Jake relaxed, he couldn't help but wonder what had gone on between Ash and Misty while he was out. They had a clear history, and Jake suspected there was more to their relationship than either of them let on. But it wasn't his place to pry, and he had enough on his mind without adding that mystery to the mix.

"So," Ash's voice broke through his thoughts, drawing his attention back to the present. "How was your day? Besides the whole avoiding-Misty's-wrath part."

Jake shrugged, trying to play it cool. "It was... fine. Same old stuff, you know."

Ash raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Is that so? You seem a bit more... preoccupied than usual."

Jake hesitated, his thoughts swirling with everything that had happened that day. Pikachu's capture, the confrontation with Growlithe, Gary's offer, and the uncertainty of what to do next were all too much to process. Finally, he let out a sigh and made up his mind.

"I'm leaving," Jake said abruptly, his voice more determined than he felt.

Ash didn't react right away. He simply looked at Jake, his expression unreadable, before nodding slowly. "Alright," he said finally, his tone neutral. "If that's what you want."

Jake had expected more of a reaction—maybe some argument, a reason to stay—but Ash's calm acceptance caught him off guard. He nodded, more to himself than to Ash, and turned to head to his room.

Inside the small space that had become his temporary home, Jake let out a long breath, trying to steady the turmoil inside him. He released Tide from his Poké Ball, and the Marshtomp appeared with his usual calm demeanor, though he tilted his head questioningly at Jake.

"We're leaving, Tide," Jake said quietly, kneeling down to his partner's level. "I've repaid my debt. We don't have to stay here anymore."

Tide watched him for a moment, his eyes searching Jake's face as if trying to understand the decision. Jake began gathering his few belongings, stuffing them into his worn duffle bag with an efficiency born from years of practice. He didn't have much, just a few clothes, his sketchbook, and a couple of personal items he'd acquired since coming to Pallet Town. It didn't take long to pack everything up.

Once his bag was packed, Jake slung it over his shoulder and made his way to the front door. He paused there, his hand on the doorknob, and glanced back at the house. It had become more than just a place to sleep—it had become a place where he was starting to feel... safe. The thought made him uncomfortable, and he tightened his grip on the doorknob, ready to pull it open and leave before he could second-guess himself.

But his feet wouldn't move. Something held him back, and as much as he tried to convince himself otherwise, he knew it wasn't just about leaving behind a safe place. It was about leaving behind the people who had begun to matter to him—Ash, Gary, even the damn lab with all its frustrations.

Jake closed his eyes, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He didn't want to leave, not really, but staying meant facing things he wasn't sure he was ready to confront.

"Done running?"

The voice behind him made Jake's heart skip a beat. He turned to see Ash standing a few feet away, his expression unreadable, but his eyes filled with an intensity that made Jake feel exposed.

Jake swallowed hard, his hand still on the doorknob. "I... I don't know," he admitted, the words tumbling out before he could stop them. "I just... I don't know what I'm supposed to do."

Ash watched him for a moment longer, then nodded toward the dining room. "Come on. Let's talk."

Jake hesitated, but the steady, unwavering presence of Ash's voice made something inside him loosen. He let go of the doorknob and followed Ash to the dining room table, where he sat down heavily, feeling more lost than ever.

Ash took the seat across from him, leaning forward slightly as he met Jake's eyes. "If you want to stay, you need to tell me your story. No more running, no more hiding. Just the truth."

Jake looked down at his hands, feeling the weight of the past two years pressing down on him. He'd spent so long keeping everything bottled up, trying to survive without letting anyone in. But now, sitting across from Ash, he realized that maybe, just maybe, it was time to stop running. To stop hiding.

He took a deep breath and began to speak, his voice shaky at first but gaining strength as he went on. "I grew up in an orphanage in Saffron City. It wasn't the worst place, but it wasn't home either. When I turned twelve, I took the OPL exams and passed them, but when it came to the competitive trainer exams, things didn't go as planned."

Jake paused, his hands clenching into fists as the memories came flooding back. "I... I had a run-in with a League official during the exam. He was one of those stuck-up types who looked down on kids like me. We had a heated confrontation—I might've said some things I shouldn't have. My foul mouth got the better of me, and he failed me on the spot. I was pissed. Felt like the whole system was rigged against me."

Ash listened quietly, his expression neutral but his eyes attentive, encouraging Jake to continue.

"After that, I was angry, hurt… I wanted to get back at this elitist somehow. So, later that day, I tried to fleece him—take something from him without him even noticing. I thought it would make me feel better like I'd evened the score or something. But I was stupid, Ash, foolish. I ended up stealing one of his Poké Balls."

Ash's eyes widened slightly, but he said nothing, letting Jake continue his story.

"I didn't realize what I'd done until later. I thought I'd just grabbed some cash or something, but when I checked, there it was—a Poké Ball. I knew it was a grave offense. If I got caught, the consequences would be severe. So, when I saw the police at the entrance to the orphanage, I panicked. I grabbed whatever I could carry and ran. I managed to slip away unnoticed."

Jake's voice grew quieter as he continued, the shame of his actions weighing heavily on him. "It wasn't until a few days later that I learned the Mudkip inside that Poké Ball—Tide—wasn't registered to anyone. I overheard one of the police officers mentioning an investigation against the guy for Pokémon smuggling. That's probably why Tide wasn't registered. I figured it meant one less thing to worry about."

He glanced over at Tide, who was sitting nearby, watching Jake with his usual calm demeanor. "Tide and I have been on the move ever since, going from city to city, trying to survive. I trained him as best I could with what little I knew, but we were always one step away from disaster. Every day was a struggle, just trying to stay out of sight and keep ahead of the law. I didn't get to choose a starter, and Tide being unregistered would alarm anyone."

Jake's voice trailed off, the weight of his past hanging heavy in the air. He didn't mention the scar on his cheek—something Ash noticed but didn't ask about. There were some things Jake wasn't ready to talk about, not yet. But he had said enough—more than he'd ever told anyone.

Ash sat quietly for a moment, processing everything Jake had shared. There was no judgment in his eyes, only a calm, contemplative gaze.

"That's quite a story," Ash said finally, his voice calm and steady. "You've been through a lot, Jake. More than most people your age. But you're here now, and you have a chance to start over."

Jake nodded, still feeling the uncertainty gnawing at him. "Yeah, but what if I mess it up again? What if I can't make it work?"

Ash leaned forward, his gaze steady and reassuring. "We all make mistakes, Jake. It's part of life. What you do next matters—whether you keep running or decide to face things head-on. You've got people here who can help you if you stop pushing them away."

Jake swallowed hard, feeling a lump in his throat. He had spent so long-running, so long trying to survive on his own, that the idea of accepting help, of trusting someone, was foreign to him. But sitting there, with Ash's steady presence beside him, he felt something he hadn't felt in a long time—hope.

"Okay," Jake said quietly, finally meeting Ash's gaze. "I'll stay. But what about my actions? What if somebody finds out what I did?"

"Let Gary and me take care of that," Ash replied, his voice firm. "Now that you've decided to stay, you become our responsibility. So don't worry, and trust us on this one."

Jake hesitated, still grappling with the idea of staying, of trusting. "And what about the competitive battle exam?"

Ash leaned back slightly, his expression softening. "Is that still your dream?"

Jake nodded, the memories of his old ambitions stirring within him. "Yeah... It was my dream before everything went wrong. To be the ace of the Saffron Psyshockers, if you can believe it."

Ash's gaze felt as if it was piercing through his soul. "Do you still want that?"

Jake hesitated, the question hanging in the air between them. Did he still want that dream? The dream of becoming a top-tier trainer, of being the ace of the Saffron Psyshockers, his favorite team growing up? It felt so far away now, like a distant memory from another life. But as he sat there, facing Ash, he couldn't deny that a part of him still longed for it.

"I... I don't know," Jake admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I used to want it more than anything. But now... everything's different. I'm different."

Ash nodded, squeezing the troubled youth's shoulder in reassurance. "Dreams can change, Jake. But if it's something you still want, something that still burns inside you, then it's worth pursuing. You just have to figure out if it's still your goal or if you're holding on to it because it's all you've ever set your sight at."

Jake looked down at the table, his thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. Could he still chase that dream? After everything that had happened, after everything he'd done? He wasn't sure. But the idea of giving up on it, of letting it go entirely, felt like losing a piece of himself.

"I guess... I'm not ready to let it go," Jake finally said, his voice firmer this time. "But I don't know if I can do it. Not after everything."

Ash leaned forward, his expression encouraging. "You don't have to do it alone, Jake. We'll figure it out together if you want to give it a shot. It won't be easy, but nothing worth having ever is. The question is, are you willing to fight for it?"

Jake felt a flicker of fire ignite within him, a spark nearly extinguished by the years of running and hiding. Maybe he wasn't ready to give up just yet. Maybe, with the proper support, he could find his way back to that dream—or even forge a new one.

"I think I am," Jake said, the words coming out more confidently than he expected. "I think I want to try."

Ash smiled a look of pride in his eyes. "That's the spirit. But I'll let you know right now; you are behind everyone else at the moment, and catching up will be tough. You will have to still work at the lab while training your Pokemon and study for the exams."

Jake squared his shoulders, feeling fire burn in his veins. "Bring it on!"