(Hey everybody, it's the start of a new saga and in a new fictional realm. Pokémon is something I've loved since I was little, I watched it every week when the show was on and always looked forward to what new adventures the characters would go on. I stopped watching it during the Unova thing then came back for Kalos for a certain possible character relationship. That said, I've had this in mind for a while and have gone through different possible brainstorming drafts. And with help from my friend, Nobel Six, I've come to create a hopefully memorable new saga in this reality in the Pokémon world (the anime specifically). (He is going to be acting as my producer and an editor as well.) I will say each of these chapters/episodes will be much longer than what any of my normal chapters in my other stories are, so be prepared to read hopefully well written and in-depth chapters (the first episode I originally intended has to be split up into multiple parts because it ended up being longer than I thought). Hope you all enjoy it!)
Episode 1: A New Hero, A New Dream
(Kanto, Pallet Town)
A young boy woke up from his night of rest, pulling the dark sheets that covered him off himself before he got out of bed. He yawned as he stretched, doing some self adjustments to his back and neck. He had a long day ahead of him and he wanted to make sure he did it right before tomorrow. It was the big day so many youths dreamed of and anxiously awaited. Tomorrow would be the start of his Pokémon journey. He looked at the poster across from him, the one that emblazoned the image of his hero: Ash Ketchum.
On the poster stood Ash in a heroic pose with his Pikachu on his shoulder as they both smiled with the trophy they'd won beside them. Ash's journey from humble beginnings to becoming world champion had spread across the world. Pallet Town had grown considerably in the time since Ash had taken the title from Leon.
Below the poster also stood the images of the three starter Pokémon of Kanto: Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur. He'd wrestled with the decision of which to choose when his journey began and he still wasn't sure which to pick. Each of them were incredible starters with their strengths and growth possibilities when they evolved. He'd seen firsthand in recordings of various League battles just how powerful and versatile they could be. Not to mention seeing them in action where he volunteered.
When he did choose, he knew he'd feel guilty for not choosing one of the two others. Despite his anxiety, he was still excited and looked forward to the adventure he would set out on and what friends he would make with both people and Pokémon. He would miss home though.
"Dakota! Breakfast!"
Dakota walked over and opened his door, walking up the stairs to the ground level. His mother, Leia Mahina, worked in the kitchen fixing up breakfast for herself and her son. Her son walked over and joined her in fixing up the last touches. She was a tall woman with long braided dark hair that accented her tanned skin.
"Mom, you know I can help right?"
Leia grinned at this, her deep green eyes almost shined as she gazed at her son. The Alolan woman had taken joy in knowing her son was there to help her when she needed it (and even if she didn't want it). He'd often cooked for both of them after having learned from both her and her family back in Alola (that was when they visited). Leia had married Dakota's father, a man from Kanto, and moved here with him to be with him. Through certain unfortunate events, they'd divorced and Leia had decided to remain here in Kanto as she now had a respectable small business working in carvings and Pokémon therapy and bonding.
She actually had been considered and a well respected choice to be a Kahuna in Alola earlier in her life though she'd decided to move away to Kanto. Leia had admitted to her son before that sometimes she wished she had stayed in Alola. To her surprise though, Dakota understood this and said he couldn't help but imagine his mom as the fiercest Kahuna in Alola. She laughed at this and gave him a hug.
Dakota sat at the table with his mom, readying to eat their breakfast. Then a large, muscular, and furry figure walked into the room. They both smiled at this. Leia scratched the Pokémon's head which it responded with happy grunts.
"Don't worry Incineroar, your food's right here."
She reached over and grabbed a bowl of Pokémon food from a counter and placed it on the table beside her and her son. Incineroar grinned at this and sat to join them. As the fire and dark type dug into its food, Leia turned to her son.
"Just one more day till the big day, huh?"
Dakota rubbed the back of his neck, a little bashful at his mother's remark.
"Yeah, I know. Part of me is still surprised it's tomorrow."
"You know who your starter is gonna be?"
Dakota's smile slowly faded, scratching his chin.
"No, I haven't decided."
Leia sighed, a slightly reserved smile on her face.
"You've always been a little hard headed when it came to decision making, especially big decisions."
Dakota just chewed his food, not really having a response to his mother's statement. Leia turned back to her food.
"Did you get your father's message?"
"...I did…"
"The same thing?"
Dakota nodded.
Dakota's father, Ethan Heath, had been against his son going on a Pokémon journey. This had been because of Ethan having failed at his own journey years ago. He'd released all of his Pokémon and taken up a job as a salesman and had made his way to having a stable role in a Kanto company that sold house supplies. In many ways he'd removed himself from almost all things Pokémon in his life except for the ones who helped work building houses and delivered messages that couldn't be done electronically.
Ethan's reasoning for his position was something Dakota understood to an extent, he also feared his journey would fail and one of his big dreams would be smashed to splinters. It's just how insistent Ethan had been about his belief that the Pokémon journey was a waste of time and that it wasn't a stable path for his son to follow. He was unmoving in this belief and Dakota had spent more than one night crying to himself about his dreams seemingly being ripped apart in his mind.
Leia had berated her husband at the time more than once about this though out of ear shot of her boy so Dakota wouldn't hear just how heated the arguments were between his parents. Even though Ethan had made his position very clear to her, he hadn't expected the rage that he unleashed in Leia at this time.
One of the reasons for the divorce was their very different beliefs about their son and what his future should be. When they'd divorced and Leia had taken back her family's last name, Dakota had decided to take his mom's last name. It had been largely because of his fractured relationship with his dad, who often dismissed his dreams and often spent so much of his time at work while also dismissing his son and ex wife's love and respect for their heritage and culture largely because of what he thought would deteriorate their images in Kanto because of Dakota formerly practicing the dances in the open.
Dakota had only talked with his dad a handful of times since his parents separated. Ethan had sent his son a message about how he shouldn't choose to become a trainer, his tone both pleading and demanding as he recounted his own failed journey and how he'd wished he'd chosen something else from the start.
She simply sighed at the answer her son had given.
"Your father had big dreams to become a Pokémon master as well. Sadly he couldn't make the cut to win enough badges and lost to many other trainers in his time. It broke him. I've seen how he's looked at trainers on the news and seen the sadness there even though he believed he wasn't."
Dakota slowly nodded.
"I just thought he'd understand."
Leia gently clutched one of her son's hands, a sad smile on her face.
"One's dreams being lost can devastate someone in a way that sticks with them for a lifetime."
Dakota nodded again, unsure of what to say.
Incineroar looked up at Leia.
"Incin?"
Leia sighed, rubbing the chin of her faithful companion.
"I feel we've spoken enough about this. Perhaps there's something on the news that can change the mood?"
Dakota slowly nodded, his mind still lingering on the conversation.
After finishing their breakfast and cleaning up, the family walked into the living room. Dakota and Leia sat on the couch which had tables on either side with at least one or two carvings of legendary Pokémon like Solgaleo or common Pokémon like Persian. Incineroar sat on the floor, leaning its head against Leia's lap. The Pokémon grunted happily as Leia massaged its head with one hand.
Leia turned on the TV and started switching through channels till they came to a news report in Vermillion City. Across the bottom of the screen states: Former Hoenn Champion in Kanto! Dakota's eyes locked onto this.
"Who's here?"
They waited as reporters entered a bakery and approached a tall young man in a jacket and wearing a cap over his light brown hair turned to face the reporters with a surprised yet reserved nervous smile, a bag of cookies in one hand. One of the reporters, a middle aged man, approached with a mic in hand.
Dakota's eyes widened a little at recognizing the young man. The reporter on screen spoke his name first as well as the name appearing across the bottom of the screen: Jason Sorenson.
"Mr. Sorenson! Mr. Sorenson!"
"Y-Yes, hi. I didn't think anyone would recognize me."
An anxious smile spread across his face as he rubbed the back of his neck. The reporter smiled as he nodded to a young man on the other side of the bakery, an Eevee sitting beside him with a smile on its face. Then suddenly phones of the people at the bakery as well as those of Dakota and Leia had alarms go off. The alert presented the image of Jason Sorenson with the same title as the one on the screen, both presented by the same news company.
Mr. Sorenson sighed.
"Well, I guess I can't help but be flattered."
"Mr. Sorenson, you must admit it's surprising to see you here?"
"In a bakery? I mean, I do have a sweet tooth."
Some of the people present laughed before the reporter continued.
"Why are you in Kanto?"
"Oh, I'm just traveling. It was something I came to love when I started my journey and thought it would be nice to get back to it."
"A back to your roots sort of thing?"
"Exactly. I've met a lot of unique Pokémon and good people in my journey."
"Would one of those people be the current World Champion, Ash Ketchum?"
One of the eyebrows on Mr. Sorenson's face rose up.
"No? Never had the pleasure."
"Is that why you're here?"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, you have to admit it's a little interesting at discovering the former champion of Hoenn (the one who only no longer holds the title because he stepped down) is in the home region of the current World Champion. Are you here maybe to challenge the champ for his title?"
"What? No, I-"
"There are some outspoken members amongst your fans saying you should've been a part of the tournament and could very well have won that title. Many still believe you would defeat Ash Ketchum and take the title as World Champion."
"Please, let me stop you there. I'm not here to challenge the champion for his title. I've never met or battled him at any point in my journey. I'm here to enjoy traveling and revisit and create new memories and good times that made my journey before becoming champion all the more precious. And as for a battle with the champ, there's no way of really knowing whether or not either of us would win."
"Are you saying you're afraid to battle him?"
"I respect Mr. Ketchum. His passion and bonds with his Pokémon are something all people, not just trainers, should aspire to learn from and emulate in their own lives. If we were ever to meet and have a friendly battle, it would be incredible. I've seen his battles and how his combat style would be interesting to match mine against. Admittedly he has a habit of rushing in powers blazing rather than having some kind of set or partial strategy in mind. However he's also great at thinking on his feet and his adaptability is possibly second to none. If our paths were ever to cross and if the circumstances were right, I'd love a battle with him. This isn't about titles or some vain perception of glory."
The reporter was actually rather quiet in response to this. Mr. Sorenson sighed as he turned to the camera.
"Now, if you'll excuse me, I'd like to just have some peace and quiet. Have a good day Kanto."
He waved and walked out of the stores. Soon after, the recording ended. Leia turned to her son.
"Wow, a former champion traveling around. Maybe you'll get a chance to meet him?"
Dakota smiled.
"Maybe. He's in Vermilion City right now though. So if it were to happen, it wouldn't be for a while."
Leia sighed, ruffling her son's head of thick dark hair. It was one of the things she knew he'd inherited from her along with her deep green eyes.
Soon a soft alarm went off on Dakota's phone. Incineroar turned at the sound. The boy sighed.
"Gotta get ready."
"It's nice you help out there, it's good for you. Don't let those local brats bother you though."
Dakota's smile faded at her second statement, he slowly nodded.
Sadly with the growth of Pallet Town, some people that had moved there had some rather unfriendly relatives or were the unfriendly ones. A few other soon to be trainers from different parts of Kanto had moved with their families. They weren't very welcoming to the boy from Alola to say the least.
"Yes, ma'am."
Leia sighed then smiled.
"I could always suggest to Incineroar to make them leave you alone."
The fire and dark type nodded with a grin.
"Rrroar!"
Dakota couldn't help but smile.
"I always thought you taught me to stand my ground? To show no fear?"
His mother smiled.
"You just know not to do the traditional-"
"I know."
"(I love you.)"
"(Love you too.)"
Leia had taught her son so much about Alola's history, traditions, and culture. The old language of the region was one they spoke to each other often. There were also the traditional and ceremonial dances of Alola used for everything from celebration to honoring past loved ones to of course to the war dances in face of great adversity and to challenge enemies. Dakota often practiced these with his mother though his father had told him often to only do this at home. He'd done this in the backyard of their house once when he was much younger and the same upcoming trainers had bullied him about it.
In fact, even some of the older people in the town had laughed at this after either seeing Dakota practicing or hearing about it. To put it mildly, the only friends Dakota felt it had were the ones at home and where he volunteered at (with perhaps one surprising exception). Still, he wouldn't trade them for anything in the world. This didn't mean it didn't hurt when people laughed at him and his ancestral home's traditions. His mother had decided she would advise him to do this at home with her and Incineroar and only those others he truly trusted to do so in private.
Otherwise if anyone had heckled or harassed him about it, she said she'd burn down the town to find them all. Dakota wasn't entirely sure if she was joking or not. She just grinned and winked at him when he asked if she were serious or not.
Dakota went to his room and put on the clothes he'd been given to use as his go to work uniform. Though it was just a plain shirt, pants, and boots. Anything else was ready for him to use where he worked. Ethan had questioned how useful it was especially since it was paid work. Dakota though said he enjoyed it even though at times it was demanding. He sighed as he looked into the mirror, making sure everything was fitted right.
"Last day."
He then walked downstairs and left the house after waving to his mom and her Incineroar. Then he started walking. Within several minutes Dakota approached the place where he volunteered, the same place where he'd go to start his journey: Professor Oak's laboratory and ranch.
Professor's Oak lab and ranch was still largely the same as it was when Ash Ketchum had started his journey years ago. Dakota sighed as he looked up at the building then out towards the ranch, catching sight of a few Pokémon playing in the distance.
He then heard the door open at the lab and saw a familiar woman with long brown hair and a warm smile on her face walk out. Dakota felt himself freeze up and his cheeks burn.
"Oh, Dakota! How are you sweetheart?"
"H-Hi Ms. Ketchum."
Delia Ketchum smiled as she walked down the steps, a purse slung over her shoulder.
"The Professor is waiting inside for you, Gary is here as well for the next couple of days to catch up with his grandfather."
"C-Cool."
Delia smiled at the boy.
"Leia raised such a good boy. And such a handsome one too."
Dakota's eyes widened as he gulped. Delia giggled at this and winked at him.
"Best of luck on your journey, I'll be there to cheer you on tomorrow."
"T-Thank you."
The woman smiled and walked off.
Dakota gasped as she walked, still blushing madly. He couldn't help but get flustered when around girls and women he found pretty. Leia had teased her son about it multiple times and Dakota could've sworn he'd heard Ms. Ketchum come over and talk with his mom about both their sons and perhaps a mention of Dakota being quite shy around girls.
When he managed to return his thoughts to the present, he heard something he hated.
"Well if it isn't Dirty Dakota. Or is it Dull Dakota?"
Dakota gritted his teeth at hearing this, recognizing the voice all too well. He turned in the direction of the voice, finding a small group of boys standing a little ways down the small hill. They were a rather colorful bunch. Some were tall, others short, some chubby, others rail thin, various hair and eye colors. At the head of the group though was their 'proud leader': Shane Barron.
A boy the same age as Dakota stood with a hand on one hip, dressed in designer clothing of bright gold with white and red lining designs and bright red shoes. He ran a hand through his short cut golden hair that had light brown highlights. The thing Dakota hated though was Shane's smug constant smirk as it centered on him along with his blue eyes flaked with bits of amber.
Shane came from a more wealthy family that had ties to the Pokémon Leagues' developers and the Poké Ball industry along with aiding in funding research into evolving Pokémon and more quickly making them stronger. This legacy Shane was a part of had made him feel superior to Dakota who he saw as a legacy to failure.
"You really think working here will get you first choice for the best starter tomorrow?"
"Why don't you go jump off a cliff?"
"Ooooh, tough guy? Just because you think you do that weird dance makes you strong?"
Dakota's hands clenched into fists. Shane was then flanked by his two closest friends: Remy, a lanky boy with a mess of light brown hair and piercing blue green eyes with a nasty habit of mocking any perceived weakness or stupidity (as he saw it), and Ruckus, a chubby boy with short dirty blonde hair and dull blue eyes who was incredibly spiteful to the point where'd he'd insult someone for anything just because he hated them.
Remy laughed.
"Look at him, he really thinks he can do something."
Ruckus, however, frowned though.
"And I don't know what's wrong with Ash's mom's eyes, you're just as ugly as your home region's Pokémon!"
Dakota's nostrils flared.
"Why don't you come say that to my face?"
Shane's group started to position themselves between Dakota and their ringleader. Dakota didn't take a step back though, he raised his fists and gritted his teeth.
"Dakota? Is that you?"
It was Professor Oak, every boy there recognized his voice. Shane scoffed.
"Saved by the bell. Well, we'll be seeing you later, loser."
"Shane, why you-!"
The boys hurried off, Dakota glaring in the direction they fled in.
"Jerks."
Professor Oak opened the door to his lab and witnessed the boys running off away from his lab, a surprised look on his face. Then he turned down to see his youngest volunteer to his lab, who stood in a defensive position with his fists up. A sympathetic smile spread on his face.
"You never back down, do you?"
Dakota turned back to the man. The Pokémon Professor walked down the steps and put a hand on the boy's shoulder.
"Come, let's get you inside. The Pokémon will be happy to see you."
Dakota sighed and nodded.
He followed the man into his lab, seeing Oak's assistants and aides walking around the lab, a few Pokémon walking with them here or there. Professor Oak walked up to the window, looking out the window at his ranch with Dakota standing beside him as he spoke.
"It's your last day as a volunteer here, I can't tell you how glad I've been to have you helping around here. Your love for Pokémon is always a good thing to see in a young man. I know your father wasn't happy about you working here…I imagine he's not pleased with your journey starting tomorrow."
Dakota slowly nodded. Professor Oak sighed.
"His journey was a hard one. He managed to win a few of the gym battles after several tries until finally he just couldn't seem to win anymore. To be honest, I thought his ambition was something that could help him hone his fighting techniques…but he lost faith in his Pokémon and gave up."
"...Mom's told me that before…it still hurts though when he says I shouldn't do what I dream of."
Oak rested a hand on his shoulder.
"I know. Now I don't want to make your last day helping here a sad one. I know the Pokémon are looking forward to seeing you again."
A small smile spread across his face.
"Rrruff!"
They both turned around, seeing a Rockruff running around chasing a ball along the floor. Dakota turned to Professor Oak.
"Who's Rockruff is that?"
"This one is actually wild. I'm not admittedly sure where this one came from, but it took a liking to my lab and ranch. He's very affectionate and has bonded with the staff and Pokémon here."
"Mom told me that Rockruffs are really beloved in Alola."
"Some powerful trainers have had Rockruffs on their teams before."
"I know Ash had one."
"Yes and it evolved to Lycanroc and helped him become champion of Alola."
"The first league he ever won."
"Indeed, the Pokémon from your ancestral home region truly formed together to become a versatile group."
"Ashy boy has always had a knack for bringing together Pokémon to build strong teams."
Professor Oak turned and smiled, Dakota followed his gaze and saw Professor Oak's grandson, Gary, standing not too far from them with a warm smile on his face. The young man was now taller than his grandfather. Dressed in a long simple white coat like his grandfather, Gary still had that prominent spiky brown hair that anyone from Kanto could recognize.
Dakota gasped a little under his breath. Gary's reputation as a Pokémon trainer for so long had rivaled Ash's and even though Ash was now the World Champion, Gary Oak was still considered one of the best trainers from Kanto at the very least despite now being a Pokémon Researcher.
Gary turned to his grandfather.
"This is the kid you've told me about?"
Professor Oak nodded, smiling.
"Yes, young Dakota has been helping me with the day to day tasks of caring for the Pokémon here. He's also going to be starting his journey tomorrow."
Gary turned to the young man.
"Do you know who's going to be your starter?"
Dakota rubbed the back of his neck, an embarrassed smile on his face.
"Actually, I'm not sure."
Professor Oak chuckled.
"It's quite alright. It's not an easy choice to make. Gary actually spent days trying to figure out which Pokémon he would choose until he decided on Squirtle."
Gary nodded.
"Back when I was a brash and arrogant kid."
Professor Oak sighed.
"You've grown so much since then, my boy. You've made me and Pallet Town quite proud."
Gary Oak smiled.
"Thanks, grandpa."
Professor Oak returned his smile then turned to Dakota.
"I typically wait for new trainers to see their choices personally on the first day of their journeys. However, given all your help and the unique circumstances involving these Pokémon I thought I should give you a little surprise ahead of the others."
"Really?"
Gary Oak's eyebrows lifted up a little.
"What do you mean?"
Professor Oak smiled and motioned for the two to follow him.
Within a minute or so, Professor Oak had led them to the exact same spot where Gary had chosen Squirtle years ago. Before them were three Poké Balls on a table. The professor turned to them as he took the Poké Balls in his hands.
"All right you three, come greet some friends!"
The Poké Balls opened and from the light that popped out, three Pokémon emerged. The starters Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur emerged with smiles on their faces. Dakota and Gary's eyes widened though at a particular detail about each of them: each starter was a shiny color in contrast to the typical color version of these Pokémon. The Charmander was a bright Yellow-Orange, the Squirtle was a dull blue with a bright green shell, and the Bulbasaur was a lime green with a dark green bulb on its back.
"Char!"
"Squirtle!"
"Bulba!"
Professor Oak smiled.
"When it came time to gather the starters for the next generation, I was surprised to find these three."
Gary turned to the man.
"Have you ever had three shiny Pokémon together for the same choice for new trainers?"
"When you get to my age some things perhaps slip your mind, so I admittedly can't remember. Nevertheless this is quite a unique circumstance."
Dakota was quiet, still in shock and also wonder at seeing these three starters.
"They're incredible."
The three smiled widely at this. Squirtle seemed to puff out its chest in pride while Bulbasaur hopped up and down while Charmander looked at Dakota simply smiling. Dakota returned it. Professor Oak chuckled at this.
"Alright you three, back in your Poké Balls. You're going to need some rest because tomorrow you go on your journeys."
They nodded to the man then waved to Dakota and Gary before Oak recalled them and set their Poké Balls back down on the table. The professor turned to Dakota.
"Ok, ready for your last day of work here?"
The boy nodded. The three then walked back towards the rear door of the lab when they saw on the nearby TV that the reporter that Dakota saw earlier was now doing a follow up report on Jason Sorenson.
"We tried to catch up with Mr. Sorenson after he exited the bakery, however, he appeared to be heading out of the city when we finally caught word from citizens of where he was."
Professor Oak chuckled.
"Jason always had a knack for planning out the right move in a tough spot."
Gary nodded at this.
"That's for sure."
Dakota turned to them.
"You know him?"
They both nodded before Professor Oak spoke first.
"Indeed, I met him when he was traveling through Kanto some years ago when he challenged the gyms here."
"He did? I don't ever remember seeing him going to the Indigo Plateau."
"I never got a chance to ask him why he didn't go to any of the Pokémon Leagues other than Hoenn."
Dakota then turned to Gary who had a mix of regret and embarrassment on his face.
"I've met him twice. Once was when I was still an arrogant jerk, back when I was traveling in Johto. We battled it out and it ended in a tie, neither of us were admittedly sure if either of us actually won. He and his team were a lot stronger than I thought they'd be. Next was when he became champion in Hoenn. We met on friendlier terms, especially since he saw that my loss to Ash during the Silver Conference had humbled me. He told me not to hold back during our battle even though this was just a friendly rematch. To be honest, I could tell I'd been out of practice and he'd become much stronger. He beat half of my team by the time I finally beat one of his."
Dakota's eyes widened a little at this.
"Really?"
Gary nodded.
"He remembered some of my tactics from our last battle and he seemed to predict what I'd do to some extent. I found myself on the backfoot during our fight. I started with Blastoise, my partner and strongest Pokémon as to show I agreed to his terms. After a good fight, he beat my Blastoise with his first Pokémon."
"He did?!"
"He organized his team well, not truly favoring one type over the other. In some ways it reminded me of how I used to rotate my team and make sure I had a good mix of different types for a more well rounded team."
Dakota rubbed his chin.
"A good strategy."
"To say the least. I think it was also to some degree a strength he got from his time before he became a trainer."
Professor Oak nodded.
"Right, he was a rising young baseball star. The Hoenn Linoones Baseball team had hopes of recruiting him one day when he became older because of his talents for the game though Jason would never admit that he'd be in the sight of the region's star baseball team."
"Yeah, he was gaining quite the reputation for stealing bases to the point the other team dreaded seeing him batting on the field."
Dakota was quiet at this, simply listening to the two Oak men going back and forth about Jason. It was quite a sight to see them speaking on their collective knowledge and understanding on any subject. Before long though there was the sound and feeling of rumbling. The trio looked out to see the local Tauros charging towards the lab.
Gary's eyes widened at the sight.
"You've gotta be kidding me!"
He then reached for a Poké Ball.
"Blastoise will-"
"I think Dakota beat you to it."
Gary turned from his grandfather to back to the direction of the Tauros. His eyes widened as he saw Dakota racing out of the lab towards the Tauros herd.
"What?! What is he doing?!"
Gary rushed towards the door.
Dakota had made his ways a few yards away from the lab and stood still, facing the charging Tauros which were now even closer. He crossed his arms.
"Ok guys, that's enough!"
Gary rushed out, the door was slammed to the side. He rushed forward.
"Kid you're gonna get trampled! RUN!"
As he readied to call out Blastoise, the Tauros stopped charging just a few feet away from Dakota. Gary's jaw dropped at this and was even more surprised at seeing the normal type Pokémon walking forward and rubbing their heads against him. Dakota laughed as he petted their heads.
"Very funny guys, so scary."
Professor Oak walked to stand beside his grandson who turned to him.
"What did I just see?"
"Dakota has earned the trust of the Pokémon here. He's spent all of his time here feeding, grooming, and just spending time with them. The Tauros have a little joke to see if they can scare him by charging together as a herd."
"What about the first time it happened?"
"Well Dakota was admittedly unsure of it, however he's seen that they do it as exercise and training. He had learned standing his ground and not moving was the best way to end their joke."
"That's crazy!"
Professor Oak chuckled.
"You should meet his mother, Dakota's the laidback one."
Gary's eyes almost bulged out of his eyes at this then he chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Wow, just…wow. Wait, aren't those Ash's Tauros?"
"Correct. Ash's Pokémon have found another close human friend in Dakota. Some warmed up to him faster than others. Dakota was both excited and nervous to meet them especially, he's watched their battles time after time."
"I bet Ash would be tickled pink at seeing this. Speaking of Ash, have you seen him lately?"
"No, actually. I heard he was in Kalos right now at the invitation of a close friend of his."
"Well, I can see the ranch is in good hands. Ash would come to the same conclusion, even though the kid will be leaving tomorrow."
Professor Oak chuckled.
"Dakota! Make your rounds and get the usual tasks done!"
Dakota nodded to him, waving.
(Professor Oak's Ranch, an hour later)
Dakota pushed a cart full of buckets of various sizes of Pokémon food, a few different Pokémon following him anxiously waiting for him to give out the food.
"Hold on guys, we gotta get to the pond. The water Pokémon have to eat too."
Some of the Pokémon grumbled at this while others nodded. As Dakota continued to push the cart, he heard the beating of wings over him. He looked up to see flying types soaring over his head, following him. He smiled as he noticed a few of them calling out to him in greetings.
"Hey guys!"
"Ruff! Ruff!"
Dakota looked down at his side, seeing the Rockruff from earlier trotting beside him. The boy smiled.
"Hungry, huh? Don't worry, there's plenty for everybody."
"Ruff!"
The rock type rubbed up against Dakota's leg as they both continued to walk. Dakota gasped at this then he smiled. He petted Rockruff's head.
"Hope you enjoy it."
Rockruff barked, smiling.
Soon enough Dakota had brought the food just a yard away from the pond, water Pokémon gathered around and in it. He then stopped pushing the cart.
"Alright everybody! Lunchtime!"
Various Pokémon moved to gather as close to the cart as possible. Dakota began handing out bowls of food to the different Pokémon, some walking off with their bowls to eat under the nearby trees or sitting close to the pond. Dakota then felt a tapping on his shoulder. He turned around and was greeted by one another key figure at the Oak Lab and Ranch.
A Bulbasaur smiled at him, its one vine retracting.
"Bulba! Saur! Bulbasaur!"
Dakota smiled.
"Hey Bulbasaur, hungry?"
Bulbasaur nodded. Dakota handed a bowl to the grass type though the Bulbasaur then used its vines to hand it to an Oddish beside him. The boy smiled.
"Ok, let's hand these out then you can eat."
"Bulba!"
While Dakota had found himself following Professor Oak's instructions and orders at the ranch, he also learned to follow Bulbasaur's lead. The grass type had been the Pokémon groundskeeper and diplomat for years. Bulbasaur had been a little uncertain of the boy, given he discovered both the excitement and nervousness of meeting one of Ash's Pokémon. They had learned to work together well over Dakota's time at the ranch.
Ash's Bulbasaur wasn't the only Pokémon of his that was present. Many of the Pokémon Ash had caught and taken in over the years were still at the ranch. His Charizard towered over many of the others, smiling as Dakota handed him a bowl to him.
"Here you go, Charizard. Enjoy."
"Roah!"
Then a stream of flames shot out from its mouth, engulfing Dakota's head. Some of the Pokémon gasped and flinched a little at this. Dakota's head had some scorch marks and his eyes were wide.
"Y-You're welcome."
Charizard smiled and walked off with its bowl of food.
Dakota shook off the sensation of the Flamethrower, chuckling in embarrassment. Some of the Pokémon laughed though not at Dakota. He'd found out for himself how Charizard greeted Ash whenever they reunited. He shook off the sensation of the flames as the next few of Pokémon approached. Two stood with their arms crossed with smiles on their faces and the third continuously hopped up and down, its mouth opened wide in a smile. One of the first two towered over Dakota, a twig in its mouth and the other's dancing flame on its head stood out amongst their features. Sceptile, Infernape, and Totodile had grown fond of Dakota as he often cheered each of them on during their personal training at the ranch and their friendly matches with the other Pokémon.
Dakota was surprised when he watched the Masters 8 Tournament that Ash didn't include Pokémon like his Charizard, Sceptile, or any of his more experienced and powerful Pokémon on his team. This wasn't to say he didn't respect the team he chose, he just thought he'd have more of his veterans at his side besides his Pikachu. Dakota did really like Ash's Lucario and the Mega Evolution was incredible to see.
"Ruff!"
Dakota's mind snapped back to the present. He looked down to see the Rockruff gazing up at him, its tail wagging. The boy smiled.
"This is my mom's Pokémon food recipe. Hope you like it."
"Rockruff!"
Dakota took a bowl and laid it down for the rock type. Rockruff barked as it chowed down on the food. Its tail wagged as it continued eating. Dakota chuckled.
"Glad you enjoy it."
He petted the rock type's head as it continued to wolf down the food.
Dakota had been taught by his mother the family recipe for Pokémon food. A mix of berries, herbs, and other natural ingredients had made for a delicious and healthy form of Pokémon food. Professor Oak had asked Leia why she hadn't shared this with more people, she explained it was something that it was only to be shared with those she trusted and given what happened with Ethan and many of the people of Pallet Town's thoughts on her son…she had misgivings about sharing it people she didn't respect or like.
With Pokémon she was always happy to let them have a taste. To say the Pokémon on the ranch enjoyed it was putting it mildly. Professor Oak had found to his astonishment they'd only eat the food if Dakota made it. The boy did feel bad for those who'd made the food previously though, especially considering his mother was far more skilled and intuitive about this than him as he admitted. Leia though would say her boy was better than he believed.
Dakota smiled as he continued to pet Rockruff. The rock type rubbed against his hand, tail wagging more. Despite this peaceful moment, his mind couldn't help but return to what Ruckus had said. His blatant disrespect for Alolan Pokémon had been a nasty part of his bullying of Dakota. This hate for his ancestral home and all the other forms of life there had nearly caused Dakota to literally attack him though this was used in situations where Ruckus felt he was untouchable especially if his buddies were around or there was a barrier between him and Dakota. Ruckus didn't know how flimsy of a shield they were.
He shook off the feeling, not wanting his last day as a volunteer at the ranch to be marred by the memory of one of the people he most hated. Rockruff had looked at him, whimpering a little at sensing the boy's pain. Dakota sighed then smiled.
"It's ok, just some bad memories. Sorry I worried you."
The rock type rubbed its head against him before licking his hand. Dakota's eyes widened a little at this. Then he smiled.
"Thanks, Rockruff."
"Ruff!"
Rockruff went back to eating after a moment, smiling at the boy. Dakota smiled then returned to handing back bowls of food with Bulbasaur.
(Professor Oak's Ranch, a couple of hours later)
Dakota knelt down as he brushed one of the Tauros as it laid its head down, enjoying the grooming. The boy made sure to go slowly at this, wanting to make sure the normal type was as comfortable as possible. Grooming was also another task he filled at the ranch, as many of the Pokémon like to relax while being brushed.
"Your fur is looking good today, big fella. You've been keeping it clean pretty well. Make sure that you and the others follow this up."
"Mrroohh!"
Dakota smiled and gently patted the head of Tauros, who nudged the boy playfully.
"I hear you. I'm gonna miss you and the herd and the rest of the Pokémon here when I leave. Who knows? Maybe I'll catch a Tauros and you guys can show him the ropes here?"
"Mrrroaaah!"
The Tauros smiled as gently headbutted the boy, who laughed. Dakota patted the normal type's side.
Both of them heard the sound of fighting. They turned to see the Rockruff from earlier being harassed by a group of Spearows. The flying types flew around him cawing and trying to peck at him. Dakota frowned at this as he stood up, the Tauros following suit. He turned to the Tauros.
"Go find Bulbsaur."
Tauros nodded and rushed off.
Dakota then hurried over to the fighting. He watched Rockruff growling at the Spearows, lunging with his jaws to make the flying types. It constantly turned, snapping and growling at them. Even though he had the type advantage if it came to an actual fight it was just outnumbered by several Spearows that would dive at it then pull away for another to peck at it when its back was turned.
"Ruff! Roc! Ruff! Rrrr!"
Rockruff snapped at the tail feathers of one of the Spearows, its teeth actually slashing off some of the tail feathers. This Spearow's eyes widened then screeched as it turned then dove back at the rock type. Rockruff lunged at the flying type, tackling it onto the ground. Spearow screeched as it tried to shake itself free. The other Spearows flew forward at Rockruff, the rock type growling at this.
"HEY! QUIT IT!"
All of the Pokémon turned to see Dakota rushing at them. The boy waved off the flying types at a few yards distance from the rock type. Rockruff's eyes widened a little at this though quickly turned when the Spearows created a formation in the air, glaring at Rockruff and the boy.
They prepared to dive at them then were knocked back by green sharp projectiles that flew at them.
"Spear?! Spearow!"
They turned, eyes narrowed in the direction from where the attack came from. Then their eyes widened, seeing Bulbasaur on the ground with a Tauros beside it, both snarling at them.
"Bulba!"
"Mrrrooh!"
The Spearows flew off.
Dakota sighed, nodding to Bulbasaur and Tauros.
"Thanks, you two."
"Saur!"
"Mrr!"
Dakota knelt down beside Rockruff. The rock type had a few bruises on its body from the multiple pecks it received from the flying type Pokémon.
"You ok, Rockruff?"
"Ruff."
The boy sighed and patted the Pokémon's head, a small smile on his face.
"Come on, let's get you fixed up."
"Ruff?"
Dakota headed over to a bag he kept for field work on the ranch that he left close to where he brushed the Tauros. He pulled out a spray bottle and walked over to the rock type. Rockruff stood hesitant.
"It's ok, this'll help."
Rockruff turned to Bulbasaur and Tauros, both nodded. The rock type turned back. Dakota then sprayed the potion on Rockruff. The Pokémon gasped a little at the feeling, its wounds and pain disappearing. Rockruff wagged its tail at this.
"Ruff!"
Rockruff rubbed up against Dakota again, faster than it had before. Dakota laughed as Bulbasaur and Tauros smiled at one at seeing this.
(Professor Oak's Lab, a few hours later)
Dakota held a broom in one hand and a dust pan in the other. As he brushed the floor with the broom, he kept his eyes on the floor to make sure he made it as clean as possible. He then heard the sounds of snickering and chuckling. His eyes narrowed as he turned around, seeing Ruckus and a few of the other boys grinning at him from outside of the lab.
They started screeching incoherently, hitting parts of their bodies though not very hard as Dakota glared at them through the glass. His grip on the handles of the broom and dustpan tightened. Soon enough they stopped and laughed, pointing at Dakota.
Before Dakota could make a move or statement to retaliate, the boys found themselves being pelted with rocks. They cried out, their hands covering their faces. Dakota looked in the direction from where the rocks had flown from. It was the Rockruff, it had used Rock Throw and pelted the bullies. Dakota smiled and waved to the rock type through the glass. Rockruff wagged its tail at him. Dakota turned, seeing the boys pulling their hands away from their faces. He motioned for the Pokémon to move out of sight.
Rockruff bounded off, seeing the bullies starting to turn their gazes in its direction. The bullies looked at one another confused, not seeing anything that could've pelted them. Ruckus started to foam at the mouth as he turned in Dakota's direction, but he was gone.
(Professor Oak's lab, an hour later)
The professor and his grandson sat at a table, going over some notes that Dakota couldn't see as he wiped down some tables. Their attention turned as they heard the sound of the doorbell ringing. Professor Oak stood up and brushed his lab coat off.
"Odd, I wasn't expecting visitors at this hour."
He walked over to the door, Dakota couldn't help but follow his path with his eyes as the Professor opened the door. At the doorstep stood two people, one was a tall muscular man dressed in a well pressed coat and pants with his blonde hair slicked back wearing shade and a woman in similar attire to her male counterpart with pulled back light gray hair. The woman spoke first.
"Mr. Oak, my name is Hannah and this is Allen, we're journalists and filmmakers doing a documentary on the exploits and history of the best current Pokémon trainers in the world. One of the subjects will be of course Ash Ketchum. We know that you know him very well and would like to come to your lab tomorrow to do some recording of his history and Pokémon here."
"T-This is a surprise. I had no prior knowledge or alerts of this."
Allen smiled.
"We understand your confusion, Professor. We just try to keep these matters discreet so as to not alert our rivals in the industry so we can get the first decisive scoop."
Professor Oak sighed.
"I wish Ash could be here himself to speak on his own feelings regarding his journey."
Hannah turned in surprise to her partner before returning her gaze to the professor.
"He's not here in his hometown?"
"I'm afraid not, he's in Kalos for the time being."
"A shame, we'd hoped he'd be here to interview him firsthand."
"Well, I imagine that he'd love to once he returns."
"Well, we could still interview you tomorrow if it's not too much trouble."
"If that would help."
"It will, believe me."
"Very well. Come in, we can discuss the details if you'd like."
"Thank you."
The duo followed the professor into the building and walked into the room where Dakota and Gary were.
"I believe you know my grandson, Gary?"
The woman's eyes widened a little behind her glasses as her gaze fell on the former trainer turned researcher.
"Yes, Gary Oak. We had no idea you'd be here."
"Just catching up with my grandfather. What're they here for, grandpa?"
"They're working on a documentary on young Ash. They'll be doing some recording tomorrow here at the lab and ranch."
"Pity Ashy boy isn't here."
The man nodded.
"Couldn't agree more."
The woman turned, seeing Dakota looking at her.
"And who is this?"
Professor Oak smiled.
"Ah, this is Dakota Mahina, a soon to be trainer tomorrow. He's been a volunteer here for some time and is a big fan of Ash Ketchum."
"Really? Is that so, Mr. Mahina?"
Dakota's face was bright red. He could barely hold her gaze as he blushed.
"Y-Yes, ma'am."
The woman nodded while the man raised an eyebrow at the boy then turned to the woman. A big grin spread across his face before turning to Gary Oak.
"I remember seeing your battle with Ash Ketchum in Johto. You were also quite the trainer."
Gary Oak chuckled.
"Well, I may have lost a step or two since then."
"Well, your voice would also be invaluable in recording this documentary."
"This going to be uploaded live?"
The woman smiled.
"We may do parts of it live, to give a hint or sneak peek into the larger finished product."
Professor Oak rubbed his chin.
"An interesting strategy. Perhaps if you do that, young Ash may return home to speak about his journey himself."
The man smiled.
"That would be a pleasure."
Professor Oak nodded then turned to Dakota, who had been standing silently in the corner.
"I believe that will be all for your last day, Dakota. Go home and get some rest, you have a big day tomorrow."
Dakota turned his vision in the direction of the lady for a moment then turned back to the professor.
"Yes, sir."
"I look forward to seeing you take your first step tomorrow."
"Thank you."
Gary nodded to him.
"Interested to see who you pick, kid."
Dakota nodded. He then quietly walked off.
(Professor Oak's Ranch, a few minutes later)
Dakota walked out of the lab and prepared to walk down the steps and turned to see some of the Pokémon waiting for him. Charizard, Sceptile, Bulbasaur, Totodile, Infernape, and the Rockruff were amongst those greeting him.
"Hey guys. Guess tomorrow is the last day I'll be seeing you all for a while."
"Bulba."
"Scep."
"Rrroaah."
"Tototo!"
"Fernape!"
"Ruff! Ruff!"
Dakota smiled.
"I hope I make you all proud."
They smiled and responded by coming up to hug him. Dakota's eyes widened then they relaxed as he smiled and returned the hug. As he pulled away, a thought came to him.
"Hey everybody, there's something I've been told to show this to those I trust. It's something that's been passed down in Alola down the generations, there's different kinds for different reasons. I was just wondering if that would be ok?"
The gathered Pokémon nodded, smiling. Dakota sighed in relief.
"Thanks guys."
To be continued…
(This is, I think, the longest single chapter I've ever done. I hope it wasn't too long a read, I'm trying to work on those little moments and details in a story. Pokémon was something I loved when I was younger and to finally start doing this story and share it with y'all is something I wasn't sure if I'd ever do. Thanks again to my buddy, Nobel Six, for all his help and I hope you like his OC as well. I'm going to upload the other parts to this first few episodes arc hopefully either later today or within the next few days. Hope you all enjoy this new story of mine!)