From the moment the Professor released him from his Poké Ball, Charmander knew. This was it. This human—wild, grinning, and brimming with energy—was his human. He didn't need much time to figure it out; he could feel it in the way she looked at him, in the way her voice softened as she crouched down to meet his gaze. When she reached out her hand, something clicked inside him, like a puzzle piece sliding into place.
And when she chose him, when she grinned and said they were going to be a team, that was it. No doubts. No hesitation. He was delighted. It was like she'd felt it too—that spark, that connection. And that wasn't something you ignored.
From then on, the fun started immediately.
No sooner had they left the lab than Ashley took off running, her sneakers kicking up little clouds of dirt as they sped through Pallet Town. Charmander, for his part, didn't need any convincing. His legs pumped furiously to keep up, his tail flame blazing in excitement as he dashed beside her. She was wild, unpredictable, and just a little bit reckless. He loved it.
"Come on, Charmander!" she shouted, laughing as she weaved around an old man walking a Growlithe. "We've got a ferry to catch! No time to slow down now!"
Charmander barked out a cheerful "Char!" in response, his claws scrabbling against the cobblestones as he matched her pace. His chest swelled with pride every time she glanced down at him, her grin wide and full of encouragement. This, he thought, is exactly what I've been waiting for.
The town passed by in a blur of colors and sounds—the rustling of wind through trees, the distant calls of Pidgey, and the occasional "Hey, watch it!" from someone Ashley almost barreled into. Charmander soaked it all in, his sharp eyes darting everywhere as they raced toward the docks.
By the time they reached the ferry, both of them were panting, their breaths coming out in short gasps. Ashley flashed their ticket, and with a quick thank-you to the deckhand, they sprinted up the gangplank just as the boat's horn sounded. They'd made it.
Charmander let out a triumphant "Char-char!" his tail swishing wildly as they stepped onto the deck. Ashley bent over, hands on her knees as she caught her breath, but her grin never faded. It was then that Charmander earned his name, Mars.
He loved it!
They wandered over to the edge of the ferry, where the ocean stretched out before them, vast and shimmering under the midday sun. Mars froze again, his jaw dropping slightly as he took in the sight. The water was so big. So blue. It glittered like the scales of a Gyarados, and it seemed to go on forever.
"Pretty amazing, huh?" Ashley said, leaning her elbows on the railing. She glanced down at Mars, whose wide eyes were locked on the endless expanse of water. His tail swished back and forth, the flames flickering like they were caught in the rhythm of the waves.
Mars let out a soft, awed "Char..." He stepped closer, his claws clinking against the metal railing as he propped himself up for a better look. The salty breeze tousled his tail flame, making it dance even higher. For a moment, he was completely still, overwhelmed by the sheer scale of it all.
Ashley smiled, watching him take it in. "First time seeing the ocean, huh?" she said softly. Mars nodded, his gaze never leaving the water. He was mesmerized. This was nothing like the little ponds and controlled habitats he'd known back at the facility. This was wild, untamed, and full of possibilities.
She reached out and gave his back a light pat. "Get used to it, buddy. We're gonna be seeing a lot of new things from here on out. This is just the beginning."
Mars turned to look at her, his eyes shining with excitement. "Char-char!" he chirped, hopping down from the railing to stand beside her. He puffed out his chest again, his tail flame blazing brighter than ever.
Ashley laughed and ruffled his head as the ferry continued its journey across the ocean. The two of them stayed by the railing, watching the waves and talking about what might be waiting for them on the other side. Mars couldn't understand all the words Ashley was saying, but he understood the energy behind them—the promise of adventure, of battles, of challenges worth facing.
His sharp eyes darting around as he took in the unfamiliar sights and sounds of the ocean. The rhythmic churning of the ferry's engine, the cries of Wingull swooping overhead, and the vast expanse of water—it was all new, and it was exciting. For a Fire-type like Mars, born and raised in captivity, this was a whole new world.
Ashley could tell he was soaking it all in, and she found herself wondering about his life before they met. She crouched down to his level, resting her elbows on her knees. "So, Mars," she started, her tone casual but curious, "what was life like before you met me?"
Mars looked at her, his tail flicking as if he were considering how to answer. He sat down, his tail flame curling protectively behind him, and let out a soft "Char…" before glancing back out at the water.
Ashley tapped her chin, her mind racing to piece together what she already knew. "Let me guess," she said, leaning forward slightly. "You were raised in one of those big, fancy facilities, right? Like the ones they have for starters?"
Mars perked up at that, nodding quickly. His tail flame flared slightly, and he let out an excited chirp, as if to say, You got it!
"Yeah, I thought so," Ashley said, smirking. "I mean, Professor Oak explained it all once. Charmanders aren't exactly easy to find in the wild, huh? Low numbers, and all that." She rested her chin in her hand, her voice turning more thoughtful. "I bet you were surrounded by other Charmanders, huh? Maybe some Charizards, too?"
Mars puffed out his chest proudly, clearly pleased with her guess. "Char! Char!" he barked, nodding again. His tail flame flickered higher for a moment, and Ashley couldn't help but laugh.
"Okay, okay, I get it. You had a whole Fire-type family," she teased, giving him a playful poke on the nose. "But I bet it wasn't just Charmanders. I mean, those places usually have Squirtles and Bulbasaurs too, right?"
Mars let out a soft growl of agreement, his eyes narrowing slightly as if recalling something specific. Ashley raised an eyebrow, curious. "What? Did the Squirtles give you a hard time or something?"
Mars huffed, crossing his tiny arms and looking away dramatically. "Char…" he muttered, clearly annoyed by whatever memory he was recalling.
Ashley burst out laughing, leaning back on her heels. "Oh, no way! Did they gang up on you? I can totally see it—those little water brats probably thought they were so cool, huh?"
Mars glared at her, but the twinkle in his eye gave him away. After a moment, he let out a reluctant chuckle, the sound low and gravelly.
Ashley grinned and reached out to ruffle the top of his head. "Don't worry, buddy. You've got me now. If any Squirtles try to mess with you, they're gonna have to deal with both of us."
Mars chirped happily at that, his tail swishing with renewed energy.
Ashley tilted her head, her smile softening as she watched him. "But… I bet it wasn't all bad, right?" she asked. "You had your mom, and the breeders, and the scientists taking care of you. I mean, it sounds pretty peaceful."
Mars hesitated, then gave a small nod. "Char…" he said softly, his tail flame dimming slightly as he sat back down. His gaze drifted back out to the ocean, and Ashley could see a hint of longing in his eyes.
"But peaceful can get boring," she guessed, her tone understanding. "You're a Fire-type. You need more than just a safe little bubble, huh? You need a challenge, an adventure."
Mars turned back to her, his eyes bright with agreement. "Char! Charmander!" he barked, hopping to his feet. His tail flame flared brighter, and Ashley could feel the heat of it even from where she crouched.
"Yeah, I thought so," she said, standing back up and brushing off her knees. "You were probably waiting for this moment forever, huh? Waiting for someone to pick you so you could finally get out there and see the world."
Mars nodded again, his tail swishing so hard it nearly knocked into Ashley's leg. She laughed, stepping back to avoid the flames. "Well, lucky for you, your patience paid off. 'Cause now you've got me. And trust me, Mars, we're gonna see everything."
Mars let out an excited chirp, hopping in place as he flared his tail flame even higher. Ashley shook her head, grinning. "Alright, alright, calm down. We've got a whole journey ahead of us. Save some of that energy for when we actually get to Cinnabar."
For both of them, this was the start of something big. And for Mars, it was more than just the end of a monotonous life—it was the beginning of an adventure filled with the challenges, excitement, and fun he'd always dreamed of.
As soon as the ferry made it to the island, Mars bounded off the ramp with all the energy of a freshly unboxed Fire Stone, his tail flame bobbing brightly behind him as he skidded to a stop on the sandy pavement of the bustling harbor. His sharp claws clicked against the ground as he took a moment to soak it all in, his blue eyes widening with excitement. This was nothing like the structured, predictable world of his past. The island was alive in a way Mars had never experienced before.
Ashley strolled up behind him, slinging her bag higher onto her shoulder. "So, what do you think, Mars?" she asked, gesturing at the chaos around them. "Pretty wild, huh?"
Mars turned back to her, his jaw slightly agape as if to say, You have no idea.
The air was thick with the salty tang of the ocean, mingling with the smoky aroma from a nearby food stand. The streets were a kaleidoscope of movement and sound—tourists snapping pictures, trainers haggling with shopkeepers, and Pokémon of all shapes and sizes weaving through the crowds. A flock of Wingull circled lazily overhead, their high-pitched cries adding to the symphony of Cinnabar Island's harbor.
Mars sniffed the air curiously, his nose twitching as he picked up a dozen different scents at once. Somewhere to their right, the sharp metallic tang of machinery hinted at a mechanic's shop, while further down the road, the sweet scent of Poké Puff frosting wafted from a bakery.
"Yeah, it's a lot to take in," Ashley said, nudging him lightly with her foot. "But stick with me, and we'll figure it out."
Mars didn't need convincing. He was already laser-focused on his surroundings, his gaze darting from one sight to the next. A Persian slinked by, her sleek fur practically glowing in the sunlight. The feline moved gracefully, her golden charm swaying with each step, as she followed an older woman who was dripping in pearls and fine fabrics. Mars watched the Persian with wide eyes, his tail flame flickering higher as if to say, I could take you in a battle, easy.
Ashley caught the look on his face and smirked. "Don't even think about it, Mars. That Persian could probably outclass us both without breaking a sweat."
Mars grumbled something under his breath and turned his attention to the other side of the street, where a group of Rattata was darting between the legs of an unsuspecting vendor. The little rodents were quick, their purple fur flashing in the sunlight as they swiped crumbs from a fallen loaf of bread. One paused to glance at Mars, his whiskers twitching in defiance, before scampering off with his prize.
"See that?" Ashley said, pointing at the Rattata. "That's what I call street smarts. You could learn a thing or two."
Mars crossed his arms and let out a huff, his tail flicking indignantly. Clearly, he thought he was plenty smart already.
They continued down the bustling street, the sound of footsteps and voices blending into a constant hum around them. Mars's claws clicked against the pavement as he kept pace beside Ashley, his head swiveling to take in every little detail. The shadows cast by the tall buildings stretched long across the street, and as they passed one particularly dark alley, Mars froze, his tail flame flickering in alarm.
Ashley noticed his sudden stillness and stopped, turning to follow his gaze. "What is it, Mars?" she asked, lowering her voice slightly. "See something?"
Mars's eyes were locked on the shadows of the alley. For a moment, there was nothing but stillness—and then, a pair of glowing, mischievous eyes appeared, followed by the faint outline of a wide, toothy grin.
"Haunter," Ashley muttered, recognizing the floating, ghostly figure as he emerged halfway from the darkness. The Haunter cackled softly, his disembodied hands floating menacingly as he waved at them.
Mars growled low in his throat, stepping forward with a determined look in his eyes. His tail flame flared brighter, casting flickering light across the alley.
"Easy, Mars," Ashley said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "It's just a Haunter. Probably belongs to a trainer." She glanced around and spotted a young man leaning casually against a wall a few feet away, a Poké Ball clipped to his belt. He was watching the interaction with an amused smirk.
"Yours?" Ashley called out, tilting her head toward the Haunter.
The trainer nodded. "Yeah, sorry about that," he said, pushing off the wall and strolling over. "He likes to spook the newbies. He is harmless."
Ashley rolled her eyes, her hands on her hips. "Well, tell him to cut it out. My Charmander's ready to throw down."
Mars barked in agreement, his claws flexing as he glared at the Haunter. The ghost Pokémon laughed again, floating back toward his trainer as if thoroughly pleased with himself.
The trainer chuckled. "Don't take it personally. He's just messing around. Welcome to Cinnabar, by the way."
"Thanks," Ashley replied, her tone light but firm. "And maybe teach your Haunter some manners while you're at it."
The trainer gave a mock salute before turning away, his Haunter following close behind. Ashley shook her head and looked down at Mars, who was still bristling. "Alright, tough guy, save that energy for Blaine's gym, huh? You'll get your chance to show off soon enough."
Mars let out a reluctant huff but nodded, his tail flame settling back to its usual steady flicker. They continued down the street, the energy of the island buzzing around them. For Mars, everything was new, exciting, and just a little overwhelming. Mars could hardly contain himself. His tail flame flickered with energy as he bounced on his toes, his sharp claws clicking against the pavement every time he shifted. This place—Cinnabar Island—was unlike anything he had ever known. The constant movement, the bright colors, the mix of sounds and scents, and the endless Pokémon to see... it was exhilarating. For a Fire-type who had spent his early days in controlled habitats, this chaos was exactly what he'd been waiting for.
Ashley seemed just as energized. "Alright, Mars," she said, pulling out her phone as they stood in front of a colorful marketplace. Stalls lined the street, selling everything from berries and Poké Balls to handmade trinkets shaped like Magmar and Rapidash. The air smelled like a mix of roasted nuts and fresh seawater. "What do you think? Should we send a picture home to show them how awesome we're doing?"
Mars tilted his head, curious, as Ashley leaned down and opened the camera app in her PokéNav. She extended her arm, framing both of them against the lively backdrop of the marketplace. "Alright, smile!" she said, grinning widely.
Mars responded by puffing out his chest and flashing his sharp teeth in what was either an attempt at a smile or a very toothy growl. Ashley snorted, unable to hold back a laugh. "Okay, okay, maybe less intimidating and more... I don't know, cute?"
Mars raised an eyebrow at her but relented, softening his expression as he tilted his head just enough to catch the light on his flame. Ashley snapped the picture, the click of the PokéNav making Mars perk up as she turned the screen to show him the result.
"See? Perfect," she said, pointing at the screen. Mars leaned in, his nose almost pressing against the glass, and let out a pleased chirp.
"Alright, next stop!" Ashley announced. Mars followed close beside her as they moved deeper into the bustling streets of the island. Every corner they turned seemed to reveal something new. A group of trainers were sparring in a small, open courtyard, their Pokémon—an Arcanine and a Ninetales—dodging and weaving as their trainers called out commands. Mars stopped in his tracks, eyes glued to the fiery battle.
Ashley noticed and paused, crossing her arms. "Thinking about joining in?" she asked, her tone teasing. "Pretty sure you'd wipe the floor with them."
Mars gave her a look that practically screamed you know it and puffed out his chest again, his tail flame flaring up as if he were already imagining the victory.
"Alright, showboat, let's keep moving," Ashley said with a laugh, tugging lightly at his arm. "We've got a gym to scope out, remember?"
Reluctantly, Mars let his gaze linger on the battle for a moment longer before trotting after her, his claws clicking against the ground as they headed toward the heart of the island.
They passed a few tourists taking photos near a giant Magmar statue that loomed over a fountain, its flame-shaped tail curling upward like real fire. Ashley opened the camera app once again and nudged Mars. "Let's grab another one. This is too good to miss."
Mars hopped up onto the edge of the fountain and posed dramatically in front of the statue, his tail flame glowing brightly against the stone Magmar's sculpted flames. Ashley snapped a few pictures, laughing as Mars tried to strike increasingly over-the-top poses. "Okay, Mars, you're gonna put that statue to shame if you keep this up."
As they continued their tour, Mars's enthusiasm only grew. Every new sight was like a spark to his already burning excitement. He spotted a Machamp helping unload crates of supplies from a docked ship, his muscled arms moving with impressive precision. Near a bakery, a group of Eevee darted around a trainer's feet, their fluffy tails wagging as they chased each other in circles. Mars stopped again, watching with interest as the Eevee played, their high-pitched barks mixing with the chatter of the crowd.
Ashley crouched beside him, following his gaze. "You wanna play too?" she teased, giving him a light nudge.
Mars let out a soft growl, his tail swishing back and forth as he watched the Eevee race away. But before Ashley could say anything more, his attention snapped to something else—a Magikarp flopping helplessly in a shallow puddle near a seafood stand.
"Char!" Mars barked, pointing with one claw.
Ashley followed his gaze and immediately stepped forward. "Oh, hey, hold up," she said, kneeling beside the Magikarp. The Pokémon flailed weakly, her scales glistening in the sun. "Looks like it got caught out of the tank."
Without missing a beat, she carefully scooped the Magikarp into her hands. "Mars, let's get it back to the water."
Mars trotted beside her as they carried the Magikarp to a small pool connected to the ocean. Ashley knelt down and gently released her into the water, watching as she splashed once before darting away into deeper waters.
"There you go, buddy," she said with a smile, brushing her hands off as she stood. "Another crisis averted."
Mars let out a proud chirp, his tail flame flickering brightly as if he were the one who had done all the work. Ashley laughed and ruffled his head. "You're such a hero," she teased. "Next thing I know, you'll be rescuing Wailords or something."
The afternoon stretched on as the duo explored more of the island. From the bustling streets to the quieter edges where trainers practiced in the shadow of Cinnabar's volcanic peaks, every moment felt like a step further into the adventure Mars had been waiting for. He could feel it in the way his heart raced with every new sight, every new sound. This was his life now—full of excitement, challenges, and a trainer who seemed just as ready as he was to take on the world.
And for Mars, it was perfect.
The duo wandered into the shade of a busy street lined with colorful awnings, the buzz of trainers and tourists filling the air. That's when Ashley spotted it—a small ice cream parlor nestled between a souvenir shop and a Poké Ball repair kiosk. The storefront was painted in pastel pinks and blues, and a wooden sign swung gently in the breeze, reading "Sweet Scoops Ice Cream—Cool Down, Trainer Style!"
Ashley stopped in her tracks, tugging lightly on Mars's arm. "Hey, buddy, what do you think? Want to try something cold for a change?"
Mars tilted his head, his tail swishing thoughtfully behind him. He wasn't entirely sure what cold meant, but the sweet, creamy smell wafting from the parlor already had his attention.
"I'll take that as a yes," Ashley said, grinning as she walked inside.
The interior was cozy, with bright walls and shiny tiled floors. A cheerful woman behind the counter greeted them. "Welcome! What can I get for you?" she asked, gesturing to the rows of ice cream flavors displayed under a curved glass case.
Ashley leaned down, scanning the colorful assortment. "Okay, Mars, this is a big decision," she said, her tone mock-serious. "We've got vanilla, strawberry, caramel... and ooh, chocolate." She glanced at Mars, who was now peering over the counter with wide eyes. His nose twitched, and his tail flame flickered in excitement.
"Yeah, I thought so," Ashley said, pointing. "We'll take one chocolate cone, please."
The woman nodded and quickly prepared their order, handing Ashley a single scoop of rich, dark chocolate ice cream perched neatly on a waffle cone. Ashley paid and turned to Mars, holding the cone out like it was a trophy. "Here you go, champ. Our first official snack as a team."
Mars blinked at the cone, leaning forward to sniff it curiously. A cool mist rose from the ice cream, and his nose crinkled at the unexpected chill.
"It's not gonna bite you," Ashley teased, holding the cone closer. "Just try it. It's sweet, I promise."
Tentatively, Mars stuck out his tongue and gave the ice cream a quick lick. His eyes went wide, and his tail flame flared brightly for a second before he let out an excited bark. "Char! Char!"
Ashley laughed, crouching down so she was at his level. "Told you it was good!"
Mars wasted no time after that, eagerly lapping at the cone while Ashley held it steady. He shivered slightly at the cold, his body unused to the sensation, but he didn't seem to mind. In fact, every lick made his tail swish faster, like he was savoring each bite.
"Careful, you're gonna get a brain freeze," Ashley warned, though she couldn't help but smile as Mars practically buried his face in the ice cream.
Mars paused for a moment, looking up at her with chocolate smeared on the tip of his nose. Ashley burst out laughing, covering her mouth with her free hand. "Oh, my Arceus, you've got a little..." She pointed to her own nose, still giggling.
Mars tilted his head, clearly confused, before following her gesture. When he realized what she meant, he huffed indignantly and wiped his nose with his tiny claw. But Ashley's laughter was contagious, and before long, Mars was letting out a playful "Char-char!" as if he were laughing along with her.
"You're such a goof," Ashley said, her giggles subsiding as she stood back up and handed Mars the cone. He gripped it carefully in his claws, taking small licks now like he was determined to enjoy it properly.
The two of them found a small bench outside the parlor, sitting down to watch the lively street while Mars continued devouring his treat. Ashley leaned back, her hands behind her head, and let out a contented sigh. "Y'know, Mars, I think we make a pretty good team. You're fun, you're fiery, and you like chocolate. What more could I ask for in a partner?"
Mars glanced up from his cone, his blue eyes shining with happiness. He barked a cheerful "Char!" and swished his tail, the flame casting a warm glow even in the bright daylight.
"Yeah, yeah, I like you too," Ashley said, grinning as she gave him a light nudge with her elbow. "Just don't go stealing all my snacks, got it?"
Mars let out a playful growl, his mouth full of the last bite of ice cream. He licked the cone clean before tilting his head up at her, his expression almost smug.
Ashley smirked, shaking her head. "Alright, mister. You earned it this time." She reached out and ruffled the top of his head, her fingers brushing against the smooth scales between his horns. "But next time, we're getting two cones. You're a hungry little guy."
Mars chirped in agreement, his tail swishing lazily as he leaned back on the bench. For a moment, they sat in companionable silence, the sounds of the bustling street filling the air around them.
Ashley glanced over at her partner, who looked perfectly content, his tail flame flickering gently as he relaxed. She couldn't help but smile. This was the kind of moment she'd always dreamed about—simple, fun, and shared with someone who already felt like family.
"Alright, Mars," she said after a while, standing up and stretching her arms above her head. "Break time's over. Let's get going to the Pokémon Center."
Mars hopped off the bench, his claws clicking against the pavement as he followed her. His flame flared brightly as he gave an eager "Char!" as he followed his trainer down the streets of the island. It did not take them long before they reached their destination.
The Pokémon Center loomed ahead, its iconic red roof and bright Poké Ball logo shining like a beacon. Ashley pushed the door open, the quiet ding of the entrance bell signaling their arrival. Inside, the atmosphere was calm and orderly—a stark contrast to the lively streets they'd just left. Trainers lounged in chairs, some tending to their Pokémon while others scrolled through their PokéDexes. The air was cooler here, the faint hum of machinery blending with the occasional soft Chansey! from somewhere behind the counter.
Mars trotted in behind Ashley, his claws clicking lightly against the tiled floor. He sniffed the air, his tail flame flickering curiously as he tried to make sense of this new place. The scents were different here—muted, sterile, and artificial. It wasn't unpleasant, just... strange. He wrinkled his nose and looked up at Ashley, tilting his head in silent question.
Ashley noticed his hesitation and crouched down beside him. "Yeah, I know," she said, ruffling the top of his head. "Smells kinda weird, right? That's because this is a Pokémon Center. Trainers bring their Pokémon here when they're hurt or tired so they can get healed up."
Mars glanced around, his sharp eyes catching sight of a trainer handing a Poké Ball to Nurse Joy at the counter. Behind her, a Chansey was carefully organizing a tray of medical supplies. The Pokémon hummed softly to herself, her egg nestled snugly in her pouch.
Ashley's voice softened, her tone taking on a note of seriousness. "This is kind of a special place, Mars. It's where trainers and their Pokémon come when they need help. So, we've gotta be respectful, okay?"
Mars blinked up at her, then gave a firm nod. He puffed out his chest and turned toward the counter, striding forward with surprising dignity. When he reached Nurse Joy, he stopped and bowed his head politely, earning a delighted smile from both her and Chansey.
"Char," he said solemnly, his tail swishing once behind him.
Ashley couldn't help but laugh as she stepped up beside him. "Look at you, Mr. Manners," she teased, handing over her PokéDex to Nurse Joy. "Hi! I'd like to register for the Indigo Pokémon League, and I'll need a room for the night, too, please."
Nurse Joy took the PokéDex with a practiced motion, her warm smile never faltering. "Of course! It'll just take a moment to get you registered. Your room will be ready shortly."
As Nurse Joy tapped away at her computer, Mars wandered a little, his nose twitching as he took in more of the Center. The faint beep of monitors and the occasional hum of healing machines caught his attention, but nothing fascinated him quite as much as the Chansey. He watched the pink Pokémon work, marveling at the way she carefully handled medical supplies with her stubby arms.
"Char?" Mars tilted his head, his flame flickering brightly.
Chansey glanced over and gave him a cheerful wave. "Chansey!"
Mars barked back in greeting before trotting back to Ashley's side just as Nurse Joy handed over the PokéDex. "All set," she said. "Your room is down the hall, second door on the left. Have a great stay!"
"Thanks!" Ashley said, giving a quick wave as she motioned for Mars to follow her. They made their way down the hallway, the bright lights and smooth floors giving everything a clean, almost futuristic feel.
When they reached their room, Ashley swiped the key card and pushed the door open. The small but cozy space was exactly what she'd expected—a simple bed with crisp white sheets, a desk with a small lamp, and a window overlooking the street below.
Mars hesitated at the doorway, his tail flame casting a warm glow over the floor. He sniffed the air again, his eyes landing on the bed. His trainer walked over and flopped onto it, bouncing slightly as the springs creaked under her weight.
"Oh man," Ashley sighed, spreading her arms out dramatically. "I've been on my feet all day. This feels amazing."
Mars padded closer, his claws clicking against the floor as he stopped at the edge of the bed. He tilted his head, staring at the mattress like it was some kind of alien object.
Ashley propped herself up on one elbow and raised an eyebrow at him. "What's the holdup, Mars? You're not scared of a bed, are you?"
That did it. Mars let out a defiant "Char!" and scrambled up onto the mattress, his claws sinking slightly into the soft material. His tail swished once, the flame casting dancing shadows on the wall as he settled down beside her.
Ashley laughed, reaching over to scratch the back of his head. "See? Not so scary, huh?"
Mars chirped softly, curling up against her side. The mattress was softer than anything he'd ever felt, and the faint warmth of Ashley's body was comforting in a way he hadn't expected. He let out a low, contented growl, resting his head on her arm.
Ashley adjusted herself, wrapping an arm around him as she lay back. She could feel the steady rhythm of his breathing, and she couldn't help but smile as his tail flame flickered softly at the foot of the bed.
"Y'know," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, "Today was awesome, and I'm glad I've got you with me."
Mars didn't respond with words. Instead, he shifted closer, his small, warm body pressing against hers. The sound of her heartbeat was steady and soothing, lulling him into a peaceful haze. Ashley closed her eyes, the weight of the day finally catching up to her. As sleep began to take over, she felt Mars nuzzle into her side, his soft growl fading into the quiet hum of the Pokémon Center.
The following morning, they woke up to the sunlight filtered through the thin curtains of their Pokémon Center room, spilling soft golden light onto the walls and floor. Ashley groaned as the brightness nudged her awake, turning over and pulling the blanket up over her face. Unfortunately for her, Mars was already wide awake.
The little Charmander sat at the edge of the bed, staring at her with an expression of quiet curiosity. He had been watching her sleep for a few minutes now, fascinated by how humans managed to look both peaceful and totally ridiculous at the same time. Her hair was sticking out in every direction, and her mouth hung open just slightly. Mars tilted his head, his tail flame flickering as he pondered the mystery of human sleeping habits.
Ashley mumbled something unintelligible and shifted again, her blanket sliding down to reveal her face. Mars leaned closer, his sharp claws clicking against the mattress as he sniffed at her.
"Ugh," Ashley muttered, swatting lazily in his direction. "Mars, give me five more minutes."
Mars, of course, had no intention of waiting. He let out a cheerful "Char!" and hopped onto her stomach, his weight pressing down just enough to make her eyes snap open.
"Alright, alright, I'm up!" Ashley groaned, sitting up and rubbing her eyes. She glared playfully at Mars, who sat proudly in her lap, looking far too pleased with himself. "You couldn't just let me sleep, huh?"
Mars chirped in response, his tail swishing happily behind him.
Ashley shook her head, swinging her legs over the side of the bed and standing up with a stretch. "Okay, buddy. If I'm awake, you're stuck dealing with my morning routine. Fair warning—it's not pretty."
Mars followed her eagerly as she shuffled over to the small bathroom. He watched as she splashed water onto her face, the cold making her gasp slightly. Next came the toothbrush, which seemed to fascinate Mars to no end. He tilted his head as Ashley squeezed toothpaste onto the bristles, his eyes narrowing as she began scrubbing her teeth.
"What?" she asked, her voice muffled as she talked around the toothbrush. "Never seen dental hygiene before?"
Mars barked a laugh, clearly amused by the ridiculous faces she was making in the mirror. Ashley rolled her eyes but couldn't help smirking.
Once her teeth were clean, she moved on to her hair. Mars sat cross-legged on the floor, his tail flame flickering against the tiled walls as he watched her wrestle with a hairbrush.
"See, this is the difference between you and me," Ashley said, pulling at a particularly stubborn knot. "You've got the perfect low-maintenance look. Me? I've gotta deal with all this nonsense."
Mars snorted, leaning back on his hands as he watched her tame the wild mess atop her head. When she was finally satisfied, she tied her hair back and turned to him with a grin. "There. Not bad, huh?"
Mars gave her an approving "Char!" and stood up, ready for whatever came next.
"Alright, breakfast time," Ashley announced, grabbing her bag and slinging it over her shoulder. She motioned for Mars to follow her as they headed down the hall toward the Pokémon Center cafeteria.
The smell of food hit them the moment they stepped inside, a mix of freshly cooked eggs, toast, and something that smelled suspiciously like roasted berries. Trainers and their Pokémon filled the room, chatting and laughing as they dug into their meals.
Ashley grabbed a tray and started scanning the options. "Let's see... scrambled eggs for me, and for you…" She glanced down at Mars, who was practically vibrating with excitement as he sniffed the air.
"Char!" he barked, pointing toward a bowl of Pokémon food shaped like little flame symbols.
"Good choice," Ashley said, grabbing the bowl and adding it to the tray. They found a small table near the window and sat down, Ashley sliding the bowl over to Mars.
"Dig in," she said, picking up her fork.
Mars didn't need to be told twice. He immediately dove into his food, chomping happily as his tail flame flickered in rhythm with his chewing. Ashley watched him for a moment, shaking her head with a fond smile.
"You're like a walking garbage disposal," she said, taking a bite of her eggs. "But at least you're enjoying yourself."
Mars glanced up, crumbs stuck to the corner of his mouth, and gave her a wide, toothy grin. Ashley snorted, covering her mouth to keep from spitting out her food.
As they ate, the room buzzed with energy. A pair of trainers at a nearby table were arguing about strategies for taking on Blaine's gym, their voices rising and falling as they debated. A Bulbasaur sat obediently at their feet, as she watched the conversation unfold.
"Think we'll be ready for Blaine?" Ashley asked, glancing down at Mars.
Mars looked up from his bowl, his eyes shining with determination. He puffed out his chest and let out a confident "Char!"
"Yeah, that's what I thought," Ashley said, smirking. "We'll train a little more today, just to be safe. But honestly? I think we've got this."
Mars nodded, his tail swishing happily as he polished off the last of his food.
Once their plates were empty, Ashley leaned back in her chair with a satisfied sigh. "Alright, breakfast is done. Time to get moving." She reached down to pat Mars on the head, earning a cheerful chirp in response.
Together, they left the cafeteria, making their way to the back of the Pokémon Center, where a sprawling training ground spread out like a playground for trainers and Pokémon alike. The area was fenced in and dotted with equipment—dummies for practicing moves, hoops for agility drills, and plenty of open space for sparring. A handful of trainers and their Pokémon were already hard at work, their shouts and cheers mixing with the sounds of Pokémon cries and the occasional explosion of a particularly powerful move hitting its mark.
Ashley stretched her arms over her head as she surveyed the field, a grin spreading across her face. "Alright, Mars," she said, glancing down at her partner. "Let's get to it."
Mars tilted his head, his tail swishing curiously behind him. "Char?" he asked, pointing a claw at her.
"Yeah, I said we," Ashley replied, crouching down to his level. "You didn't think I was just gonna stand around shouting orders, did you? That's not my style. We're in this together."
Mars blinked at her, momentarily stunned. His previous experiences with humans didn't include anything like this. Trainers were usually the ones yelling commands from the sidelines while their Pokémon did all the heavy lifting. But Ashley? She was already tying her hair back into a ponytail, looking like she was ready to jump into the thick of it.
Ashley smirked, clearly reading the disbelief on his face. "Of course I'm serious. What kind of trainer would I be if I didn't pull my weight? Besides, you're not the only one who needs to get stronger. Now, come on!" She jabbed a thumb toward the dirt track circling the training field.
Mars's eyes lit up with excitement, and he let out a bark of laughter. "Char-char!" he cheered, bounding after her as she started jogging toward the track.
The two of them lined up at the edge, Ashley squaring her shoulders like she was about to take on the Pokémon League itself. "Alright, first up—laps," she said, glancing down at Mars. "Think you can keep up?"
Mars narrowed his eyes at her, his competitive streak kicking in. He crouched slightly, his claws digging into the dirt in preparation for a sprint.
Ashley grinned. "Alright, tough guy. On your mark... get set... go!"
They took off, kicking up small clouds of dust as they rounded the track. Ashley's sneakers thudded steadily against the ground, her ponytail swaying with every stride. Mars, on the other hand, was practically a blur of orange, his tail flame streaking behind him like a comet.
"Hey!" Ashley called out, laughing as she tried to match his pace. "You're supposed to run with me, not leave me in the dust!"
Mars glanced over his shoulder, his eyes twinkling mischievously. He slowed down just enough to let her catch up, his tail swishing playfully.
"Show-off," Ashley muttered, though her grin betrayed her amusement.
By the time they finished their laps, both trainer and Pokémon were panting, their breaths coming in short gasps. Ashley bent over, hands on her knees, while Mars flopped onto the grass, his tail flame flickering softly as he caught his breath.
"Not bad," Ashley said between breaths, giving Mars a thumbs-up. "But we're just getting started."
Mars perked up at that, his energy returning almost instantly. He hopped to his feet, his claws clicking against the ground as he waited for her next move.
Ashley walked over to a set of cones arranged in a zigzag pattern. "Alright, agility drills next," she said, motioning for Mars to follow her. She demonstrated by weaving through the cones, her movements quick but a little clumsy. "See? Easy peasy."
Mars watched her with an expression that clearly said, You call that quick?
"Fine, your turn, hotshot," Ashley challenged, stepping aside.
Mars darted forward, weaving through the cones with the precision of a trained Dodrio. His tail flame flickered with every turn, but he never so much as brushed a cone.
"Okay, okay, you win this round," Ashley admitted, clapping as Mars finished with a flourish. "But let's see how you do with core training. You're not getting out of this one, buddy."
They moved to a clear patch of grass, and Ashley immediately dropped into a plank position, her elbows digging into the dirt. "Alright, Mars. Match me. We're holding this for thirty seconds."
Mars stared at her, clearly confused. He crouched down, mimicking her position as best as his stubby arms would allow. His tail swished uncertainly behind him, the flame hovering just above the ground.
"Ready?" Ashley asked, her voice strained as she held herself steady. "Three, two, one... hold!"
Mars gritted his teeth, his claws digging into the dirt as he held his position. His muscles burned, but he wasn't about to let Ashley outlast him.
"Not bad, Mars," Ashley said, glancing over at him. "But let's see if you can—oof—keep this up!"
Mars growled in determination, his tail flame flaring as he pushed through the discomfort. By the time Ashley called time, both of them collapsed onto their backs, staring up at the sky.
"Okay," Ashley panted, her chest rising and falling as she caught her breath. "I might've underestimated how hard that would be."
Mars barked a laugh, rolling onto his side to look at her. "Char!" he said, his tone teasing.
"Yeah, yeah, laugh it up," Ashley muttered, sitting up and brushing the dirt off her hands. "But you gotta admit—that was kind of awesome."
Mars nodded, his tail swishing happily as he stood up and stretched.
They spent the rest of the morning running through various drills, from practicing basic moves like Ember and Slash to working on agility and endurance. Ashley was right there beside Mars the whole time, cheering him on, teasing him when he got too cocky, and pushing herself just as hard.
By the time they finished, both trainer and Pokémon were sweaty, tired, and completely satisfied. Ashley flopped onto the grass, her arms spread wide as she stared up at the sky. "Alright, Mars," she said, her voice light but tired. "I think we earned a break. What do you say?"
Mars plopped down beside her, his tail flame flickering steadily as he let out a contented "Char..."
Ashley reached over and ruffled his head, a wide grin spreading across her face. "Yeah, I had fun too." Mars purred softly, leaning into her touch.
After lying on the grass for a while, letting the sun warm them and their breaths even out, Ashley sat up, brushing stray blades of grass off her vest. Mars, still sprawled on his back, lazily kicked his legs in the air, his tail flame swaying gently above the ground.
"Alright, Mars," Ashley said, nudging him lightly with her foot. "Break's over. We've got some serious planning to do."
Mars rolled onto his stomach, blinking up at her with a curious tilt of his head. "Char?"
Ashley reached into her bag and pulled out a small case. Inside were several shiny discs, each labeled with neat numbers and letters. She spread them out on the grass in front of them like a fan, the metallic surfaces glinting in the sunlight.
"These," she began, holding one up, "are TMs—Technical Machines. They're basically pre-recorded moves that I can teach you."
Mars leaned closer, sniffing one of the discs cautiously. His claws reached out to poke at it, but Ashley gently swatted his hand away. "Easy there, buddy. These aren't snacks."
Mars grumbled something under his breath, crossing his arms as his tail flicked in mild annoyance. Ashley laughed and held up a disc with a bold '90' printed on its surface.
"Okay, so here's the deal. I've been thinking about how we're gonna build your move set, and I've got a plan. These TMs are gonna help, but we need to be smart about when and how we use them." She paused, her expression turning a bit more serious. "Some of these moves are pretty advanced, though. Stuff like Protect and Hidden Power? Those are gonna take more power than you've got right now. We'll save those for when you evolve into Charmeleon."
At the mention of evolving, Mars's eyes lit up, and he puffed out his chest proudly. "Char! Char-char!"
"Yeah, yeah, I know you're excited," Ashley said, ruffling his head fondly. "But let's not rush it. You'll get there when you're ready. For now, let's focus on what we can do with what we've got."
Mars nodded, his expression growing more focused as he settled in to listen.
"Alright," Ashley continued, picking up the first TM and holding it between her fingers. "First on the list is Double Team. It's gonna be great for evasion. You know how sometimes you're up against a Pokémon that's faster or hits harder than you expect? Double Team will let you create illusions of yourself to confuse your opponent, which gives you time to dodge and counterattack. It's sneaky, but it works."
Mars's eyes narrowed thoughtfully, and he mimicked the motion of stepping side to side, as if already imagining himself splitting into multiple copies. His tail flame flickered with excitement.
"Exactly," Ashley said, nodding. "Now, after Double Team, we'll work on teaching you Swift." She held up the TM for it, turning it so the sun caught the metallic surface. "Swift's a long-range attack that never misses. That's a big deal, Mars. Sometimes your opponents will try to dodge everything you throw at them, but Swift? It locks on, no matter what. Plus, it'll give us another ranged option to balance out Ember."
Mars's tail flame flared brightly as he let out an enthusiastic "Char!" He swiped at the air with his claws, miming a long-range attack with a dramatic flourish.
Ashley snorted, shaking her head. "Okay, settle down, show-off. We're not done yet." She reached for another disc, this one labeled Substitute. "Now, this one's a little trickier. Substitute lets you create a decoy—basically a fake version of yourself that takes the hit instead of you. It's great for buying time or setting up your next move."
Mars leaned closer, his nose almost touching the disc as he stared at it intently. "Char?" he asked, tilting his head.
"I know it sounds a little weird," Ashley admitted, setting the TM down. "But trust me, it's a game-changer. If you're up against someone who keeps hitting hard and fast, Substitute can give us the breathing room we need to figure out a counterattack."
Mars scratched his head thoughtfully, then nodded, his tail swishing slowly as he processed everything she'd said.
"So," Ashley said, clapping her hands together, "here's the plan: We'll teach you Double Team first. It's a good starting point, and it'll help you get used to thinking on your feet. Then we'll move on to Swift, so you've got a guaranteed hit in your arsenal. Finally, we'll tackle Substitute once you're ready for something more advanced."
Mars puffed out his chest again, his eyes blazing with determination. "Char-char!"
Ashley laughed, leaning back on her hands as she looked at him. "You're really into this, huh?"
Mars nodded vigorously, his tail flame flaring brighter with each bob of his head.
"Good," Ashley said, picking up the discs and carefully tucking them back into their case. "Because this is gonna take a lot of practice. You ready for that?"
Mars responded by hopping to his feet, his claws digging into the dirt as he barked an eager "Char!"
Ashley stood up as well, brushing the grass off her skirt. "Alright, then. Let's get to work. No time like the present, right?"
Mars bounced in place, his tail swishing excitedly as they prepared to dive into their next challenge. Ashley pulled out the gray TM disc labeled Double Team, holding it up like it was a rare treasure. Her fingers brushed over the surface, and she turned it toward Mars with a grin. "Alright, buddy, this is it. First step on the road to being even more unstoppable."
Mars tilted his head, his tail swishing curiously as he eyed the disc. "Char?" he asked, unsure what exactly she planned to do with it.
Ashley crouched down in front of him, her tone patient but teasing. "This," she said, holding the disc closer, "is where the magic happens. But don't freak out when it feels a little weird, okay?"
Mars raised a skeptical eyebrow, leaning back slightly as she pressed the disc gently against his forehead. The moment it made contact, a strange, tingling sensation rushed through him. His eyes widened as he felt a flood of knowledge pouring into his mind—not in words, but in instincts and images. He could see himself moving faster, splitting into copies, darting around opponents like a flame in the wind.
Ashley pulled the disc away, tucking it back into her bag as she watched Mars process the experience. "Pretty wild, huh?" she asked, her grin widening when he shook his head as if to clear it.
Mars blinked up at her, his tail flicking behind him as he tried to put the new knowledge into practice. "Char?" he barked, ready for instructions.
"Alright, let's give it a shot," Ashley said, stepping back to give him some space. "Mars, use Double Team!"
Mars crouched low, focusing his energy as he moved. His body blurred for a moment, and then—just as he'd seen in his mind—two shimmering copies of himself appeared on either side. They moved in sync with him, tails swishing in unison, their flames flickering as brightly as the real one.
Ashley let out a low whistle, clapping her hands once. "Nice! Look at you, nailing it on the first try!"
Mars stood tall, his chest puffed out proudly. But before he could bask in the glory too long, Ashley held up a hand. "Hold on, we're not done yet. Let's see if those copies can keep up when you attack."
Mars nodded, his tail flicking with determination. Ashley pointed toward a small training dummy a few feet away. "Alright, Mars. Use Ember!"
Mars reared back, inhaling deeply as he prepared to unleash a small burst of flame. The copies mimicked his movements perfectly, their mouths opening as if they were about to launch fire of their own. But when the flames shot forward, only the real Mars and one of the copies managed to produce anything. The second copy fizzled out, disappearing with a faint shimmer.
Mars's tail flame dimmed slightly as he stared at the results, his shoulders slumping. He turned to Ashley with a disappointed huff, his claws digging lightly into the dirt. "Char…"
Ashley walked over, crouching down to his level and placing a hand on his shoulder. "Hey, don't look so bummed," she said, her tone warm but firm. "That was awesome for a first try. Do you know how hard it is to even pull off Double Team right away? Most Pokémon need a ton of practice just to get those copies to look believable."
Mars glanced up at her, his expression still unsure.
"Listen," Ashley continued, giving his shoulder a light squeeze. "Here's the thing about TMs—they don't just magically make you perfect at a move. They give you the basics, sure, but mastery? That's something you gotta earn. It's all about training."
Mars tilted his head, his tail flicking thoughtfully as he considered her words.
"Think of it this way," Ashley said, tapping her temple. "The TM is like a teacher showing you how to ride a bike. They give you the tools, the push to get started, but you're the one who has to keep pedaling. You'll get there. Trust me."
Mars straightened up slightly, his tail flame flickering brighter as he nodded.
"There's the fire I like to see," Ashley said, grinning as she stood up. "Now, let's try again. Same move, same target. This time, focus on keeping all the copies in sync. Don't just go through the motions—feel it."
Mars crouched down again, his eyes narrowing as he locked onto the dummy. He took a deep breath, channeling the energy from before. His body blurred, and once again, two shimmering copies appeared on either side.
"Nice," Ashley said, watching closely. "Now hit it with Ember!"
Mars inhaled sharply, the flames in his chest building as he launched a burst of fire toward the dummy. This time, both copies joined in, their movements perfectly in sync with his. The combined flames hit the target, leaving a faint scorch mark on the fabric.
"Yeah!" Ashley cheered, pumping her fist in the air. "That's what I'm talking about! You're killing it, Mars!"
Mars barked triumphantly, his tail flame blazing brightly as he turned back to her.
"See? What'd I tell you?" Ashley said, kneeling to meet his gaze. "A little practice, and you're already crushing it. You're gonna be unstoppable once we really start putting in the work."
Mars puffed out his chest again, his confidence restored.
"Alright, let's keep this momentum going," Ashley said, standing up and gesturing toward the rest of the training grounds. "We've got a lot to cover, and I want to see how far we can push this move. Think you're ready?"
Mars gave an enthusiastic "Char!" and bounded forward, his tail flame leaving a fiery trail in the air.
Ashley watched him with a grin, her hands on her hips. "That's my boy," she muttered, jogging after him. For both of them, the real work was just beginning—but neither of them would have it any other way.
The sun climbed high into the sky as Ashley and Mars worked through the day, the training grounds becoming their personal arena of sweat, grit, and fiery determination. By the time noon rolled around, they'd already cycled through a few rounds of drills, Mars practicing Double Team over and over until his movements blurred into a flickering dance of orange scales and glowing tail flames.
"Alright, Mars," Ashley called, shielding her eyes with her hand as she stood on the edge of the field. "Let's see if you can pull off five copies this time. Quick succession—no lag, no hiccups. Got it?"
Mars puffed out his chest, his eyes narrowing with focus. "Char!" he barked, planting his claws firmly into the dirt as he prepared to move.
Ashley crossed her arms, her grin turning sly. "I'm counting on you, buddy. But no pressure or anything. It's only your first day."
Mars shot her a side-eye glare, his tail flicking once behind him as if to say, Watch me.
With a deep breath, Mars crouched low, his body blurring as he darted to the left. A second Mars shimmered into existence beside him, then another, and another. In seconds, the real Mars stood flanked by four identical copies, all perfectly in sync. Their tails swayed in unison, the flames casting sharp shadows across the dirt.
"Five!" Ashley whooped, clapping her hands as she took a step closer. "Mars, that's perfect! Look at you—you're like your own little fire squad."
Mars beamed, the copies mirroring his proud stance.
"Okay," Ashley continued, rolling up her sleeves. "Now for the real test. We know you can make the copies, but can they keep up with your moves? Let's see Ember."
Mars let out a sharp bark of acknowledgment and reared back, his chest glowing faintly as he summoned the familiar warmth of his flames. He exhaled, and a volley of bright orange fireballs shot forward. The copies followed suit, each one launching their own fiery projectiles toward the row of training dummies set up a few feet away.
The combined attack hit its mark with satisfying thuds, leaving the dummies charred and smoking. Ashley let out an impressed whistle, her hands on her hips as she surveyed the damage.
"Okay, okay," she said, a laugh slipping out. "Not gonna lie—that was kind of terrifying. If I didn't know which one of you was the real deal, I'd probably run screaming."
Mars let out a triumphant "Char-char!" his copies fading into wisps of light as he bounced on his toes, his tail flame flaring brightly.
Ashley held up a finger. "Alright, don't get cocky yet. We've still got Slash and Smokescreen to work through. Think you're up for it?"
Mars grinned, his claws flexing as he crouched low again, ready to start.
For the next few hours, they cycled through more drills, tweaking and perfecting each move until Mars's copies moved like a seamless extension of himself. Ashley ran alongside him, shouting encouragements and occasionally teasing him when one of his Smokescreens came out a little too light or when one of his Slashes hit a tree stump instead of the intended target.
"Come on, Mars," she called, pointing toward the largest dummy on the field. "You're not gonna let that thing beat you, are you? Get those claws out and make it regret existing!"
Mars growled playfully, charging forward with his copies in tow. The dummies didn't stand a chance as the group of Charmanders unleashed a flurry of glowing slashes, their synchronized attacks leaving deep gouges in the wood.
"Yeah! That's what I'm talking about!" Ashley cheered, pumping her fist in the air. "Take that, you lifeless hunk of driftwood!"
By the time the sun began to dip toward the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, Mars was a blur of practiced precision. He stood in the center of the field, his chest heaving but his eyes alight with energy as his fifth set of copies faded into glowing particles.
Ashley jogged over, a water bottle in hand, and knelt down beside him. "Here," she said, holding it out. "You've earned it, champ."
Mars gratefully took a long gulp, water dripping down his chin as he finished and handed the bottle back. "Char," he said softly, his voice tired but satisfied.
Ashley grinned, leaning back on her hands as she looked out over the field. The training dummies were scorched, slashed, and covered in faint trails of smoke. The ground was littered with small craters from Ember attacks, and the air smelled faintly of ash and singed grass.
"You've come a long way today," she said, glancing down at Mars. "Five copies, all using Ember, Slash, and Smokescreen like pros? That's no joke, Mars. You're killing it out here."
Mars puffed out his chest, his tail flame flickering with renewed pride.
"Gotta love TMs," Ashley said with a chuckle, stretching her arms over her head. "But honestly? This was all you, Mars. You put in the work, and it shows."
Mars tilted his head, his expression softening as he looked up at her. "Char?"
Ashley reached down, ruffling the top of his head. "Yeah, I'm proud of you, too," she said with a grin.
For a moment, the two of them sat there, soaking in the quiet of the evening as the other trainers began to pack up and leave. The air was cool now, the heat of the day fading with the setting sun, but the warmth of their bond was stronger than ever.
"Alright," Ashley said finally, standing up and brushing the dirt off her pants. "Let's head back to the Pokémon Center. You've earned a good meal and a soft bed."
Mars hopped to his feet, his claws clicking against the ground as he followed her. His tail swayed behind him, its flame glowing like a tiny beacon in the fading light.
As they walked back toward the Pokémon Center, Ashley glanced down at her partner and smirked. "Y'know, Mars," she said, nudging him lightly with her foot, "at this rate, Blaine's gym isn't gonna know what hit it."
Mars barked a laugh, his flame flaring brightly as he bounded ahead, ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.