Hey readers, I'm here with another update : ) Sorry this is a little later than I'd hoped to get this up - I've had a really bad cold the late few days and I've really struggled to get this chapter finished, but it's done now. Plus it's a little bit longer than an average chapter too, so hopefully that make up for the delay : )
Truthfully, I wasn't really sure if I wanted to include the events of this chapter in my story since they don't really change all that much from the anime, but in the end I decided they were too important not to include. I'm just eager to get the story properly going now I guess ; )
Anyway last chapter I asked you guys to vote between which fossil I should pick in Mt Moon. Well, I can happily say that Lord Helix is the winner! I honestly have no idea where that whole 'Lord Helix' thing comes from, but that's what was chosen : )
Now remember, this doesn't necessarily mean that Nolan will be catching an Omanyte in this story. When I can revive the fossils, it'll be a vote between Omanyte and Aerodactyl. But that's a long time away : )
Finally, I just wanted to say a huge thank you to those of you that have reviewed, favourited, and followed this story. I really appreciate the support it's been getting, so thank you all so much: )
Please remember that Pokemon is not mine, but my OC is : )
I hope you enjoy this chapter : )
Pokemon! I Choose You! - Part 4
Ash Ketchum would be the first to admit that his first day as a Pokemon Trainer hadn't exactly got off to the spectacular start he had always envisioned. In his daydreams, Ash had always imagined a very... dignified chain of events. He would receive his first Pokemon from Professor Oak, Nolan right there at his side, both boys practically glowing with pride as they set off on their journey across Kanto together. The journey that would lead them to being Pokemon Masters.
The reality was so devastatingly different.
In fact, Ash would go as far to say that his first day as a Pokemon Trainer, had been nothing short of a complete disaster.
And the worst part of the whole situation was - Ash knew that he had nobody but himself to blame. The raven haired boy could barely believe that he could be so stupid. After all, who in the world smashed their own alarm clock in their sleep?!
But alas, that was exactly what Ash had done.
And the result of that ridiculous error was that Ash had overslept, and thus ended up being extremely late in showing up to Professor Oak's laboratory.
Needless to say, Nolan had been absolutely livid with him.
Ash barely suppressed a flinch just thinking about how enraged the other boy had been. Though Nolan was generally a very sweet and kind boy usually, and a wonderful friend to Ash, once you made him mad that all changed in a heartbeat. And boy had Ash made him mad. The worst part was, Ash understood his anger completely. He had almost ruined every dream that the two boys had ever had. Of course Nolan was going to be not only furious, but also very disappointed in him.
The raven haired boy swallowed hard at just the thought.
Hurting his best friend like that was not a very nice feeling at all.
Even now, guilt still bubbled in Ash's stomach at the thought of accidentally upsetting his best friend. He knew that he had let Nolan down, and badly at that. Ash just prayed that his actions now would be enough to fix it. That and another heartfelt apology, once Nolan had cooled off enough in order to actually listen to it.
After parting ways with the steaming mad blonde, As had been chauffeured into the laboratory by Professor Oak, the elder man scolding Ash for his tardiness the entire time. It was downright horrible. The Professor had actually managed to out-do Nolan and made Ash feel even worse about his mistake.
It was not an experience that Ash ever cared to repeat.
Once inside the laboratory, the Professor briskly got down to business. Ash could tell from the man's carefully clipped tone and the heavy frown lining his face that the man resented being forced to go through this entire procedure again. The boy's guilt only intensified as he considered just how much trouble he had caused today.
He wisely kept as quiet as possible throughout the process, to avoid digging himself into an even deeper hole.
And what a process it was. Ash was quite frankly amazed by all the information that the Pokemon League needed about him in order for the Professor to issue him with an official Pokemon Licence. It took the best part of an hour to get it all sorted, but that was the least of Ash's problems.
The boy was just so utterly relieved that he'd had the presence of mind to snatch up the necessary paperwork and the form his mother had signed giving parental consent before he had bolted from their house. He couldn't become a proper Pokemon Trainer without them after all, and he didn't wish to test Professor Oak's patience any further by forgetting to bring the documents with him.
He got the distinct impression that he was already on thin enough ice with the man as it was.
One photograph later, and everything was ready. With a soft whirring noise, one of the Professor's numerous instruments produced a small plastic I.D card.
"Congratulations Ash" Professor Oak said, and although there was no doubt that he was still annoyed with the boy, it still sounded genuine, "All you need to do now is write your initials and surname on the back, as well as sign it, and your registration will be complete".
Ash couldn't help but let go of his guilt in favour of grinning wildly.
This was the proudest moment of his entire life.
His only regret was that Nolan wasn't by his side to share it with him. That thought was enough to bring Ash back down to earth with a bump, and the guilt started bubbling away in his stomach again. The ebony haired boy quickly forced those feelings away. Ash knew that he had blown it on his own, but he also knew that there were nothing he could do about it now. So with that acceptance in mind, Ash snagged up a pen from the Professor's desk, and signed the back of his Trainer I.D card.
And that was it.
As of that moment, Ash Ketchum was now a fully licensed Pokemon Trainer.
Joy flooded the boy's entire body, from the top of his head to the tips of his toes. Pure and unadulterated joy, strong enough to wash away any remnant of guilt that the boy might still be holding on to after his earlier shenanigans.
It was just so... surreal.
Surreal, but completely and utterly brilliant.
Ash honestly couldn't remember another time in his life when he had ever felt quite so happy. The wait for this moment had been excruciating, but so totally worth it in the end. Another massive grin lit up Ash's entire face. It was finally happening! He was a trainer. He was leaving Pallet Town to go on his journey. He was actually going to get his own Pokemon!
The flood of emotion was almost overwhelming.
And speaking of getting his own Pokemon, that monumental moment was finally upon them.
"Now that we've sorted out your Trainer Licence, would you kindly follow me Ash?" Professor Oak politely requested, leading Ash in the direction of a staircase which he began to ascend.
Ash eagerly followed after the man, excitement beginning to brew in the pit of his stomach. The boy had a feeling he knew what was coming next.
If only he had taken a moment to study the Professor's face.
The raven haired boy might have noticed the first inklings of mischief - the first clue that something was not what it seemed. For to anyone else who knew the man, it would have been obvious. Professor Oak had a scheme up his sleeve.
One that was sure to teach Ash the importance of turning up to appointments on time.
The Professor carefully masked his expression back to a professional neutralism as he guided the boy over to the altar-like device that stood in the centre of the room, from which the other new trainers had previously chosen their partners.
Upon it, Professor Oak had already set up three new pokeballs, each emblazoned with one of the three emblems that represented each of the traditional Kanto starter Pokemon. The only difference between these new pokeballs and the ones given away earlier was that they were merely there for display. They held no Pokemon inside. Not that Ash know that yet.
The poor boy was practically bouncing with excitement.
Professor Oak smiled sadly to himself. For one brief moment, he second-guessed himself, but forced himself to carry through with his plan. He wasn't a vindictive or spiteful man, far from it in fact. He knew that what he was about to do was pretty mean, especially considering that Ash was only a child - but that was why the man felt he had no choice but to do it. Ash needed to know that actions, both good and bad, had consequences, and that those consequences wouldn't always necessarily only effect him.
It was difficult lesson in life that everyone must learn someday.
That didn't mean that the man was getting any satisfaction out of doing this. Well... maybe just a tiny little bit, but Professor Oak honestly wasn't trying to be nasty. Ash would still be getting a Pokemon that day. He just needed to be taught a few things first.
After all, sometimes you had to be cruel to be kind.
It was with that sobering thought spurring him on, that the elderly man gestured grandly towards the podium holding the vacant pokeballs.
"Alright Ash" Professor Oak forced his tone to be light and cheerful, "It's time to make your decision. Which starter Pokemon shall you choose?"
The ebony haired boy's body was practically vibrating, he was so utterly overexcited. Beaming up at Professor Oak, Ash eagerly stepped up to the altar-like device. Much like Gary, and in complete contrast to Nolan, there was absolutely no hesitation in Ash's stance or expression as he carefully regarded the three pokeballs presented to him.
He was born for this.
He was ready.
It was time he got his very first Pokemon.
A few more seconds passed by in utter silence, before Ash mutely nodded to himself, cementing his decision in his mind. He grinned up at the Professor once more.
"I've thought about it a lot" Ash announced proudly, "And it took me a long time, but I've finally decided to choose... Squirtle!"
Eagerly grabbing up the pokeball that was emblazoned with the water drop symbol, Ash pushed the button, excited to finally meet his very own partner Pokemon. Nerves fluttered in the boy's stomach for a moment - this was a very big deal after all - but he quickly forced them away.
The pokeball snapped open, but there was no beam of scarlet light.
There wasn't a Squirtle in sight.
"Huh?!" Ash gasped in horrified confusion. He rounded on the Professor in bewilderment, his face desperately searching the older man's face for some kind of answer. Professor Oak carefully masked his expression as he proceeded to explain.
"Already taken by someone who was on time" the Professor said evenly, although there was no denying the pointed look he shot Ash.
The raven haired boy groaned out of sheer disappointment.
"Oh... I wish I hadn't overslept" Ash whined dejectedly, but the boy quickly brightened up as he reached for one of the other pokeballs, "But now I will choose as my Pokemon... Bulbasaur!"
This time plucking up the pokeball that had the leaf emblem on it, Ash once again pressed the button in the middle, causing the capsule to snap open. But once again the device was completely empty.
There was no Bulbasaur for Ash to claim as his own.
"Wha...?!" Ash's eyes widened in slight panic as he realised that this pokeball was void of a Pokemon as well. Professor Oak, sensing that the lesson hadn't quite sunk in with the boy just yet, rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
"That one was also taken by a kid who wasn't late" he said, watching as realisation was slowly beginning to dawn in Ash's russet eyes.
The Professor saw no reason to inform the boy at this point that he would be meeting said Bulbasaur very soon however, since his best friend had been the child that had claimed the grass type as his partner Pokemon.
"Oh... well, that's no problem!" Ash quickly pressed on, but there was denying there was a hint of panic in his voice and actions now, "Because my Pokemon will be... Charmander!"
Snatching up the final pokeball, this one emblazoned with the flame symbol, Ash was getting somewhat frantic by this point. He quickly pushed the button on it, and the pokeball snapped open just like the others. And just like the others, no beam of light came out of it.
There wasn't a Charmander to be found.
"Aah!" Ash moaned in frustrated panic and despair.
The Professor smiled sadly, sensing that the lesson he was trying to impart was finally really sinking in with the boy before him, but the man carefully masked his sympathy with sternness. He knew that if Ash was going to remember to always be on time from now on, he had to let this charade continue just a little further.
"The early Pidgey gets the Caterpie" he said, and Ash glanced up at him in a frenzy, "Or in this case, the Charmander".
Sheer despair knotted in the pit of Ash's stomach as realisation set in.
There wasn't a starter for him.
No Squirtle, no Bulbasaur, no Charmander.
They had all gone, all because he had been so foolish to let himself oversleep, after Nolan had warned him no less!
Horror flood Ash's entire body as he thought about his best friend. What on earth was he going to tell him?! He knew he couldn't start his journey without a Pokemon after all. Did this mean that... Nolan would have to leave without him? All because of his own stupidity?!
Ash's shoulders sank in despair.
He couldn't believe that every dream he and his best friend had ever shared was crashing down around him, and the worst part was, he had nobody to blame but himself.
It... it just felt so... so cruel. Such a cruel twist of fate.
Tears threatened to fall, but Ash quickly forced them away. There was no point crying about this, since it was a mess of his own making. Still, he had to be sure it was hopeless first, before he went grovelling to Nolan and tried to explain this situation to him. It was for that reason alone that Ash turned back to the Professor.
"Does that mean all the Pokemon are gone?" Ash asked the man in despair, "Does... does this mean I won't be able to go with Nolan on his journey? That I've let him down?"
Ash swallowed hard and looked down at his feet just thinking about it.
The Professor on the other hand finally allowed himself to soften. It was clear as day that Ash felt guilty for his actions, and thus had learnt a valuable lesson about the importance of time-keeping, and what the possible repercussions could be if he didn't. Figuring that the boy had suffered enough, he decided it was time to put Ash out of his misery.
"Well... there is still one left" Professor Oak informed him cautiously.
He was cautious because he had previously had great reservations about giving this particular Pokemon out to a newbie trainer. In the end he hadn't had much choice in the matter. Five starter Pokemon were needed, and this last one was the only Pokemon he had at the laboratory that came even close to fitting the criterion. Truthfully, he had been hoping that Nolan or Elaine would pick it as their partner though. He felt that they would be the best new trainers capable of working through this Pokemon's... issues. Even Gary might have been able to do it, if he could put aside his own brattiness long enough.
Ash would have been his last choice to pair up with this Pokemon though.
The boy was sweet and very kind-hearted, and would one day be a wonderful trainer - but right now he doubted that the boy was responsible enough to work with particularly challenging Pokemon like this one. Docile ones, sure... but not ones like this.
Unfortunately, Professor Oak didn't have much choice in the matter.
This was the hand that fate had dealt them after all.
Despite the older man's clear reservations, Ash on the other hand was downright ecstatic. Just like that all his dread and all his worries abated, hope returning to his whole face as his eyes sparkled with joy.
He would still be getting a Pokemon today!
He could still go with Nolan and they could set off on their journey together, just like they'd always planned!
It was... it was just brilliant!
"Professor, I'll take it!" Ash exclaimed, internally promising himself that he'd never do something like this again. He had learnt his lesson, no doubt about it.
Sighing, but relenting, Professor Oak pressed another button on the altar-like device that held the pokeballs. The traditional starter pokeballs were shifted aside as the compartment in the centre opened, revealing the final pokeball that hadn't been chosen by any of the other new trainers.
The pokeball emblazoned with the lightning bolt emblem.
Ash's whole face lit up when he saw it.
"I think I should warn you, there is a problem with this last one" Professor Oak told the ebony haired boy before him seriously.
But Ash Ketchum was nothing if not determined, and for that matter, extremely loyal. He wasn't about to let his best friend down again. Not when there was now still a chance they could fulfil their dreams together as they'd always hoped.
"I have to have a Pokemon!" Ash insisted to the older man.
"Well..." the Professor sighed, feeling exhausted and knowing it was pointless trying to protest the point any further, "In that case..."
He gestured for Ash to claim the Pokemon as his own.
Grinning widely, his stomach churning like he'd swallowed a dozen Ekans whilst still alive, Ash psyched himself up as he reached out and closed his fingers around the lightning bolt pokeball.
The boy couldn't help but quiver in excitement.
Ash couldn't believe it. Despite all the trouble he had caused that day, he was still walking away from the disaster unscathed.
He had his very own Pokemon now.
He was a real trainer.
And... and it felt amazing.
But now wasn't the time to be consumed by the surge of emotion he felt, Ash quickly realised. No - now was the time to actually meet his new partner, his first Pokemon. Feeling awed that this really was happening, Ash pressed the button, and the device snapped open.
And this time, the whole room was illuminated by a dazzlingly bright light.
Beaming with excitement, Ash looked on as the light manifested into the form of a small creature, standing on the podium which housed the pokeballs.
The Pokemon looked up at Ash.
Ash looked down at the Pokemon.
It was immediate.
The raven haired boy instantly fell in love right there and then.
The Pokemon was small in stature, and had a beautiful coat of fur, a yellow so striking it was almost golden in colour. It had a tail that was shaped like a lightning bolt, and chubby red cheeks under its beady black eyes. It was... completely adorable.
Ash looked on, eyes sparkling with joyous excitement, as the Pokemon regarded him closely.
"Pikachu" the creature murmured.
Professor Oak, realising that it was highly unlikely that Ash had ever seen one before, since this species of Pokemon was quite rare around Pallet Town, decided to inform the awestruck boy further.
"Its name is Pikachu" the Professor interjected.
Wasting no time, Ash stepped right up to his new partner, completely missing the fact that the Pokemon was regarding him with suspicion and thus he should be much more cautious in his approach.
"Aw! It's so cute!" Ash was practically squealing, he was so excited, "It's the best of all!"
"You'll see" Professor Oak shook his head out of exasperation.
Ash didn't even hear the man, he was so fixated on the small yellow creature before him. Lacking all tact whatsoever, Ash didn't even introduce himself, and instead reached out and gently picked the Pikachu up. The small electric Pokemon let out a small squeak of surprise at this stranger touching him. He clearly didn't like it. He began to squirm uncomfortably.
"Oh! Hi Pikachu!" Ash then decided it was a good idea to tightly hug his Pokemon.
Professor Oak couldn't help but shake his head in the background.
This was exactly why he had been hoping that a more thoughtful and responsible child like Nolan or Elaine would select Pikachu as their partner. Ash's approach to this situation would freak out any Pokemon, but a Pokemon with a temperament such as this Pikachu's... well, it was practically begging for trouble!
Seriously, who decides to hug a Pokemon without letting it get a sense for them first?!
And as expected, Pikachu did not appreciate being picked up and hugged by a human he had been in the company of for literally only five seconds.
"Pika!" Pikachu snarled, his red cheeks crackling with static as the electric type Pokemon felt threatened. He immediately decided he was taking no chances - seriously, he literally had no idea what type of person Ash was after all - so Pikachu decided to defend himself in the only way he could.
He had to protect himself after all.
Pikachu unleashed his powerful Thundershock attack.
"AAAH!" Ash screamed in pain as his whole body suddenly went rigid, his hair immediately standing up on end as bolts of electricity flooded his system.
Professor Oak sighed out of sheer exhaustion as he looked on.
Whilst he knew that it had to hurt, he also knew that Pikachu wasn't yet strong enough to inflict any lasting damage on the boy. The worst that would happen right now was that Ash would come out of this a little bit singed.
"Pikachu is an electric type Pokemon" the Professor calmly explained over Ash's agonised yelps of pain, "It's usually shy, but can sometimes have an electrifying personality".
It was at this moment that Pikachu finally let up his attack.
Prying himself free from Ash's shaking arms, the small yellow Pokemon scurried away, putting a bit of distance between himself and the human he so obviously disliked and distrusted.
Ash was very disheartened when he realised this, and glanced up at the Professor.
"I see what you mean" he murmured sadly.
"Shocking, isn't it?" Professor Oak couldn't resist the little pun.
Ash frowned down at Pikachu, who glared loathingly back up at him. The boy might not be the sharpest tool in the box, but even he wasn't dumb enough to fail to realise that Pikachu was giving him what could only be described as a death-glare. He swallowed hard in panic.
He knew that his run of bad luck was only just beginning.
Professor Oak was equally concerned by this turn of events. He just hoped that the fact that Ash would have Nolan looking out for him would be enough to keep the boy out of trouble. He knew it would take time, but he hoped that Ash could work things out with Pikachu. The electric type wasn't a bad Pokemon after all. He just had some trust and obedience issues.
Realising that he could only hope for the best, the man got back down to business.
"Now take these, your Pokedex and pokeballs" the Professor said, holding out said items for Ash to take.
Once the boy had pocketed the gifts from the Professor, the man gave a quick and brief explanation as to what they were for - a more condensed version of the explanation he had given the other four new trainers earlier that day.
"Thank you so much for everything Professor Oak" Ash smiled up at the man earnestly once he had finished explaining everything to him, "I really appreciate it all. And I'm sorry I was so late this morning".
Professor Oak just smiled down at him. Ash wasn't perfect by any means, but he wasn't a bad kid. Delia had done a good job in raising him.
"Apology accepted" he nodded assuringly, "And you're very welcome Ash. As I said to your fellow beginner trainers earlier today, Pokemon Training is not an easy path to take, but I admire the determination you are all showing in following your dreams. I wish you the very best of luck on your journey my boy".
And then just like that, it was time for Ash and Pikachu to leave.
It wasn't exactly surprising that the electric type seemed less than thrilled to be going anywhere with Ash. He begrudgingly following the boy outside. The human had that dang pokeball after all. Pikachu knew that it meant he was officially stuck with him.
That didn't mean Pikachu had to like him though.
Ash, for his part, was deeply worried and upset by this turn of events.
He had no idea what he had done that had upset Pikachu so much. He just prayed that his partner would warm up to him soon. Shaking aside those depressing thoughts however, Ash forced himself to brighten up. He didn't have time to worry about it now after all.
Nolan was waiting for him.
It was time for them to finally begin their Pokemon Journey.
Nolan's legs burned in protest as he sprinted down the road that led to the gates of Professor Oak's laboratory. Alongside the boy was Meadow, who despite her small stature, was able to keep pace with her human partner rather well. Nolan took little notice of this however, as he anxiously checked his watch for what must have been the hundredth time. He needed to get back to the lab now, before Ash came out and found him missing. After the attitude Nolan had given the other boy earlier due to his tardiness, the blonde would be a total hypocrite if he kept Ash waiting now.
And if there was one thing Nolan Locke hated more than anything, it was hypocrisy.
Further ahead of them, Nolan and Meadow saw a few people starting to gather, with more and more joining the growing crowd every second. Several of them were carrying home-made banners. Nolan could immediately guess what these people were here for. They were here to see Ash off at the request of Mrs Ketchum.
Gasping at this realisation, Nolan put on an extra burst of speed, his partner doing much the same, the two of them just barely managed to get to the very front of the crowd before the people gathered closer together, effectively blocking off the entire street.
Anxiously glancing around, the blonde boy saw that he'd made it in time. There was no sign of Ash yet. He hadn't been late.
Nolan heaved a great sigh of relief when he realised that Ash hadn't come out of the laboratory yet. It had been a close call, but they had made it, with two minutes to spare in fact. Finally relaxing for the first time since leaving his father's house, Nolan's eyes properly scanned over the crowd for the first time. And whilst Ash might still be absent, there was someone else there that Nolan knew very well.
Standing right there in the very centre of the front row of the crowd, was none other than Delia Ketchum, a large green backpack - no doubt for Ash - clutched in her arms. Beaming, Nolan went over to greet her.
"Good morning Mrs Ketchum" he said kindly, announcing his presence.
Somewhat startled, Delia jumped in surprise, but upon glancing down, a smile eclipsed the young mother's face when she saw who had spoken.
"Oh, hello Nolan" she greeted him warmly, "You startled me dear!"
"Sorry" Nolan rubbed the back of his head sheepishly.
"Not to worry sweetheart" Delia assured the blonde boy kindly, "It's a very big day for a lot of people after all! I'm sure I'm not the only one in Pallet Town who's a bit on edge today".
Nolan couldn't help but think about his Dad when she said that. Although the man hid it well, Nolan could tell that he was still a bit upset. Happy for Nolan, but sad all the same. The blonde boy couldn't help but feel a little guilty about that.
"I suppose" he said awkwardly.
"I'm just so grateful that all these people agreed to come out to see my little Ash off on his journey" Delia continued in an almost wistful tone, "He deserves it... oh my, I didn't mean that to sound like you didn't - I was planning on doing the same for you too dear!"
She suddenly looked horrified, worried she had offended the young boy with her somewhat tactless words.
Nolan smiled kindly but shook his head.
"Don't worry about it Mrs Ketchum" he assured her, "My Dad told me that you were planning it, but that he talked you out of it".
Delia still looked a little worried that Nolan might be feeling left out.
"He did" she nodded in confirmation, though she didn't look too pleased about it, "He seemed to think you wouldn't like all the attention it would shine on you. I wasn't so sure, but he insisted that you wouldn't want me too".
Nolan nodded in agreement.
"He was right" the boy said, "It just isn't really my style. Besides, me and him had a nice private goodbye at home, just the two of us. I really appreciate the thought though Mrs Ketchum, thank you!"
Delia couldn't help but smile in relief.
"It was no trouble at all dear" Mrs Ketchum said kindly, pleased that he was indeed happy with the arrangement and wasn't upset over it, "I'm just glad you're okay about it. I was really worried you might feel overlooked or left out".
Nolan shook his head, before looking for a chance to change the subject.
Thankfully, Delia did that for him.
Finally looking past Nolan, Mrs Ketchum took notice of Meadow, who glanced up at the woman with curiosity. Delia gasped in awed surprise.
"Oh Nolan!" she breathed, eyes wide, "Is that your starter Pokemon?"
Always happy to talk about his beloved partner, Nolan beamed and nodded, crouching down and gathering the small green Pokemon up into his arms. He stood up, patting Meadow's head, much to her delight.
"Yep - Mrs Ketchum, this is Meadow" Nolan introduced happily.
"Hi there" Delia cooed warmly to the Pokemon.
"Bulb?" Meadow blinked up at the woman, slightly confused, before she smiled upon deciding that she liked the female human.
"Meadow, this is my best friend's mother - Mrs Ketchum" Nolan explained to his slightly confused Pokemon, who nodded her understanding, "It's her son that we were running back here to meet up with. We're going to be travelling together with him".
"Saur!" Meadow cheered, excited at the prospect of making more new friends.
"Oh Nolan, she's just lovely" Mrs Ketchum complimented, reaching out and gently patting Meadow's head too, earning another happy purr from the creature.
"I know" Nolan couldn't help but agree, "You just can't resist falling in love with her the moment you see her".
"Bulb!" Meadow nodded seriously in agreement.
Nolan and Mrs Ketchum couldn't help but laugh in amusement at her lack of modesty.
Before any more pleasantries could be exchanged however, their conversation was cut short, as all around them, the crowd began cheering and yelling loudly. Gasping in surprise, Mrs Ketchum whipped around, her gaze upon the laboratory in the distance. She immediately began clapping her hands and cheering.
Turning, Nolan and Meadow both saw what had gotten everybody so hyped up.
Off in the distance, briskly walking down the driveway leading up to the Professor's laboratory, three figures were boldly making their way down towards them. Although it was hard to tell from so far away, Nolan could see that two of the figures were Ash and Professor Oak. The third figure however was much smaller, and clearly not a human being. It must have been Ash's partner Pokemon then. Nolan couldn't see what type of Pokemon it was or make out any details - just that it was bright yellow in colour.
Still, he wouldn't have long to wait until he got the answer to the obvious question now echoing through his mind.
Within minutes, the trio had arrived at the gates, and the crowd went wild once more. Nolan couldn't help but smirk to himself in mild amusement. He was glad that he wasn't in Ash's shoes right now. He didn't much fancy the idea of half of Pallet Town seeing him in his pyjamas.
Ash on the other hand didn't seem to care all that much.
The raven haired boy was looking around at the gathered crowd in awe. He was stunned that a crowd of citizens would gather for him, just like they had for Gary. It didn't do his ego any harm either, seeing his face on banners and people cheering his name. In fact, it felt really, really good. Ash didn't even need to guess who was responsible for all this however, and he smiled warmly as his eyes landed upon his mother. He took a few steps towards her.
"Mom?" he couldn't help but question.
"Oh Ash" Delia smiled proudly, tears beginning to pool in her eyes and her voice, "I'm so proud of you! You're finally going to fulfil your dream and start your Pokemon training - but I'm... I'm going to miss you so much!"
The young woman buried her face in the backpack she was carrying to avoid letting her son she her tears.
"Oh, my little boy!" she sobbed tearfully.
Ash smiled sadly up at his mother, knowing that he was going to miss her just as much. The crowd all turned away, giving the young woman a brief moment to herself, so Nolan followed their kind example.
It was at that moment that the blonde boy's eyes fell upon the yellow creature at Ash's side.
Gasping, Nolan immediately knew what type of Pokemon it was. The blonde had never seen one in real life before, he but he had read texts about them, and saw their photographs in books and on television. His face broke into a wide smile for his best friend.
Ash's partner was a Pikachu, an electric type Pokemon.
It certainly wasn't common for new trainers to start their Pokemon journey with a Pokemon of that element, so in a way, despite being so late and missing out on a traditional Kanto starter, Ash had actually lucked out quite a lot. Not to mention, it was pretty damn cute!
Nolan smiled down at the yellow Pokemon, but it wasn't paying any attention to him.
Shrugging, Nolan turned back to watch the scene unfolding between Ash and his mother. Delia, who had managed to pull herself together again, unzipped the backpack in her arms and began emptying its contents into her son's arms, the boy's expression quickly turning into one of sheer embarrassment.
"I've packed your sneakers and jeans, nice clean shirts and underwear, and your favourite snacks - remember to share those with Nolan too - and some hot chocolate in case you want something hot, but be careful not to burn yourself! And a pair of rubber gloves to do your laundry and a new clothes line to hang it out to dry and..."
Ash, waving his arms frantically, hastily snatched the bag from the stunned woman's arms and shoved all the objects she'd dumped into his arms back inside it. He looked up at her, completely flustered.
"MOM!" Ash all but whined at her, "You're embarrassing me! In front of all these people?! In front of Nolan?! Don't you know I'm a big kid now! Pokemon Trainers can take care of themselves!"
Delia's smile turned utterly wistful, no doubt remembering the days when her little boy needed her for everything, and feeling slightly lost now that they were over.
"I understand" she sighed, almost forlornly.
"I wouldn't be too sure about that" Nolan couldn't help but tease his best friend, who turned to look at him, "I've got a feeling that I'm going to be watching out for you all the time on this journey whenever you get yourself into trouble!"
Ash scoffed playfully.
"Ha! That's pretty rich coming from you of all people" Ash teased right back, but there wasn't any bite in his tone, just playfulness, "Trouble follows you around like your own shadow Nolan Locke!"
Nolan's smirk turned into a more genuine smile.
"Fair enough" he allowed, and Ash grinned victoriously. It was then that the raven haired boy took noticed of the small green Pokemon in Nolan's arms. His russet eyes widened in shock.
"Whoa! Nolan! You're the trainer that picked the Bulbasaur?!" he cried in surprise.
Nolan blinked, confused for a moment, before he remembered that he had refused to tell Ash earlier on what type of Pokemon he chose as his partner - his own brand of punishment for Ash's tardiness. He sighed, realising that the Meowth was out of the bag now. Oh well. It didn't really matter after all. They were going to be travelling together, and he certainly wasn't going to keep Meadow in her pokeball all the time. It was inevitable that they'd meet each other soon enough.
"Yeah" the blonde boy confirmed happily, "Meadow, I'd like you to meet Ash Ketchum, my best friend".
"Bulba!" Meadow cheerfully greeted the boy.
Ash just stared at her in awe.
"Ash, this is Meadow. She's my new partner" Nolan continued, smiling at his stunned friend.
The ebony haired boy finally managed to snap out of his stunned reverie, and a gigantic grin split his entire face.
"Cool!" he cheered, reaching out and patting her gently on the head.
Meadow cooed happily. She loved all the attention all these new people were showering on her today. Nolan smiled, pleased that she felt comfortable in Ash's company. It would make travelling around in a group a lot easier. It was then that the boy remembered that Ash now had his own partner Pokemon, and he was eager to be introduced to said partner.
"And I believe you have some introductions to make as well" Nolan pointedly reminded his friend.
Eyes widening in realisation, Ash nodded vigorously.
"That's right!" the raven haired boy cheered enthusiastically, "Nolan, prepare to be amazed! This is Pikachu, my first Pokemon and my new partner!"
"Pi" Pikachu glanced up upon hearing his name.
"It's very nice to meet you Pikachu" Nolan greeted the electric type Pokemon kindly, kneeling down in order to allow the small creature to catch his scene, "My name is Nolan, and my partner is Meadow"
"Bulb" Meadow waved a vine at Pikachu in polite greeting.
Pikachu sniffed at Nolan for a moment, before shrugging his little shoulders and looking away. Nolan blinked, somewhat thrown by the less than stella reception he'd received. Although it didn't seem as though Pikachu actually disliked him. He just seemed... indifferent towards him and Meadow. Like he didn't care if he was around them or not. The blonde boy couldn't help but wonder how the yellow Pokemon acted around Ash for that matter. He'd yet to see them interact after all.
"That's your Pokemon?" Delia chimed back into the conversation here.
"Yeah - that's my partner!" Ash said cheerfully.
"Pi!" Pikachu growled unhappily at Ash's words, turning his back to the dark haired boy completely.
Nolan's eyes widened in surprise. He glanced between Ash and his new Pokemon in concern, sharing a worried glance with Meadow. It was more than a little obvious from that frosty move that Pikachu really seemed to dislike Ash. The sour look on his furry yellow face was also rather telling.
Ash had also noticed the displeased manner in which Pikachu acted and flinched, but he quickly covered it up with his usual bravado and confidence.
"With Pikachu at my side, I'll get all the Pokemon in the world!" Ash boldly announced.
Nolan couldn't help but raise his eyebrows at that.
He was only theorising at this point - he wasn't completely sure as to Pikachu's true nature at this point after all - but if the electric type didn't like Ash, which seemed a safe bet judging by his cold glare that was set upon the boy, then surely Ash realised this was going to turn into a major problem sooner rather than later?
Apparently not.
Ash just continued talking to his mother and the crowd, seemingly not noticing just how much hostility the small electric Pokemon seemed to have for him.
"I thought all Pokemon stayed inside their pokeballs" Delia mused aloud thoughtfully, "Why doesn't this one? Or Meadow, come to that?"
Nolan smiled as he replied.
"Meadow likes it too much outside here with me, right?" he asked his partner, who cooed happily in agreement.
"Fair enough" Delia shrugged, before turning back to her son, "Still, I thought you'd carry your Pokemon around in pokeballs, Ash".
"Urr... oh yeah" Ash looked slightly flustered, but quickly recovered. He dug around in the pocket of his pyjamas, digging out the same pokeball that Nolan had seen earlier. The one baring a lightning bolt emblem. The raven haired boy tossed it towards Pikachu, "Pikachu - get in the ball now!"
The small yellow Pokemon had different ideas.
Growling and narrowing his eyes in obvious dislike, Pikachu swung his lightning bolt shaped tail around, effortlessly deflecting the pokeball back towards Ash, who caught it, a surprised expression lining his face.
Nolan arched an eyebrow in surprise.
Whilst he could immediately see that this Pikachu had... character - he could barely that Professor Oak would be willing to give out an outright disobedient Pokemon as the starter for a new trainer. Perhaps the man had made some kind of mistake, and Pikachu wasn't meant to be given away just yet.
Or maybe Pikachu just really loathed Ask Ketchum.
Shocked by the creature's refusal to co-operate, Ash scowled darkly, but persisted in his attempts to return the stubborn Pokemon to his capsule. Pikachu was equally strong-willed however, and no matter how many times Ash tried to return him, the small electric type kicked, headbutted, or swatted the ball away with his tail.
It was clear to Nolan that he most definitely was not going to be returned any time soon.
"Meadow... do you feel that strongly about going into your pokeball?" Nolan couldn't help but ask his partner nervously.
The grass type looked up at him sharply.
"Saur!" she nodded passionately.
Nolan nodded thoughtfully to himself, before crouching down and petting her head reassuringly. She cooed softly at the attention he was giving her.
"Okay, then I promise, I'll only return you if the situation absolutely requires it, is that alright with you?" he asked the green Pokemon kindly.
"Bulba" Meadow didn't looked thrilled by the prospect, but nodded, willing to co-operate if Nolan asked that of her. She really hoped that it wouldn't be necessary however. Despite only having met him that day, Meadow liked being by her trainer's side far too much to be confined in her pokeball now.
Smiling as their agreement was made, both Nolan and Meadow turned back just in time to see Pikachu once again deflect his pokeball with his tail. Ash, who was quickly growing very frustrated, was forced to catch the pokeball once again.
Delia on the other hand found the scene before her to be positively endearing.
"Aw! You're playing catch!" she cooed softly, hands clasped together and eyes sparkling, "You're friends already! Just like Nolan and Meadow! It's just so sweet!"
Ash, thrown off by her misconception, but not wanting to correct her, just shrugged before plastering on a bright smile for his mother's benefit.
"Err, sure!" he nodded, before kneeling down and pulling a very reluctant Pikachu into his arms. Again, Nolan frowned when he saw the dark scowl lining the electric type Pokemon's features.
"Ash... you might not wanna do that" Nolan tried to warn him.
The blonde haired boy knew that upsetting a Pokemon was a very dangerous thing to do. Even small, untrained ones could still pack quite a punch after all. Even new trainers like Nolan and Ash were taught that very basic lesson. A lesson that Ash had clearly forgotten in his excitement.
"What are you talking about?!" Ash said cheerfully, but he turned away before Nolan had a chance to explain, instead turning to his partner, not realising that said partner was currently glaring daggers at him, "Pikachu and I are real pals, right?"
Wrong, judging by the death glare Pikachu was giving him.
Apparently Nolan was the only one actually reading the Pokemon's expression however. Nobody else seemed to notice how distinctly uncomfortable the yellow creature seemed. Even Mrs Ketchum was oblivious as she addressed her child.
"But... it's a little... weird" she couldn't help but frown.
Nolan's eyes widened in horror when he heard that rather tactless remark. Gasping, he quickly took a step backwards, fearing the worse. Meadow did the same, both human and Pokemon looking on anxiously as Pikachu's expression turned from annoyance to outright fury.
"Weird?" Ash repeated blankly.
The raven haired boy eyed his partner, gasping when he saw the expression on the Pokemon's face. It was an expression that promised painful retaliation for that remark.
"Chu..." Pikachu growled, before to the general astonishment of everone gathered to see Ash on his way, the small creature's body glowed brightly with an electrical charge, "PIKACHU!"
Screaming in outrage, Pikachu unleashed a powerful Thundershock attack.
Yelping in horrified shock, Nolan ducked to the left, and by some mercy managed to avoid being caught up in the attack. He was even more grateful that Meadow had also avoid being hit. The others weren't quite so lucky.
Ash, Delia, and all of the crowd that she had gathered all screamed and writhed in pain as they were collectively electrocuted. The attack only lasted a few moments, but it seemed like an eternity. Nolan helplessly watched on as the whole crowd thrashed about in pain. It was a horrible sight to witness.
It was only when a new voice rang out did Nolan realise that he and Meadow weren't the only fortunate ones. Peering around his flailing best friend, the blonde boy saw that Professor Oak had also managed to avoid being struck by the furious Pokemon's Thundershock.
"Those rubber gloves your Mom packed will come in handy!" the Professor yelled over the cacophony.
To Nolan utter astonishment, Ash actually managed to reply to him. The blonde would have been impressed, if he wasn't so busy being horrified.
"WHY?!" Ash howled in pain.
"Rubber blocks electricity!" Professor Oak yelled back, a few seconds before Pikachu's attack finally ended.
"HOORAY!" Ash choked out, just as the electricity coursing through his body and everybody else's finally died out.
Groaning in agony, the raven haired trainer sank down to the ground in a messy heap. All around Nolan, everyone else who had been shocked did the same. Many of them were twitching and jolting about, clearly in terrible pain. The blonde boy looked down at his best friend sympathetically.
"Yeesh... are you okay?!" he exclaimed, deeply concerned.
Despite his earlier frustration with his friend, Nolan never want to see him in any kind of pain, and certainly not pain like he'd just endured. The blonde boy wasn't sure since he hadn't experienced it before, but being electrocuted must have been excruciating.
"J-just... p-peachy" Ash managed to say sarcastically.
Nolan resisted the urge to roll his eyes, and instead just sighed out of relief. He turned to look at Pikachu with a disapproving frown, and found the electric type smirking in amusement at his own handiwork. Nolan scowled darkly at the Pokemon. He was more grateful than ever that he had picked Meadow as his partner. That Pikachu seemed like a right little brat.
"Can you get up?" Nolan asked Ash worriedly.
Ash struggled for a moment, but quickly flopped back down again.
"N-not yet" he gasped in pain.
Shaking his head in exasperation, Nolan decided enough was enough. There had been far too much nonsense for one day, and he wasn't going to put up with any more. Reaching out a helpful hand, he grasped Ash by the arm and hauled the other boy to his feet.
Ash wobbled dangerously on the spot, but Nolan quickly steadied him.
"Here, lean on me" he offered.
"T-thanks" Ash shakily replied in a grateful tone.
"You'd better shake it off soon though" Nolan reminded the raven haired boy seriously, "We're setting off soon after all. Right after you've said goodbye to your Mom".
Ash's russet eyes widened in shock at the reminder.
"Oh yeah" he said, managing to take a few unsupported steps in his mother's direction. Seeing her lying on the floor in a dazed heap was enough to pull Ash out of it. His strength returning to him, Ash pulled at one of her arms. Seeing what he was trying to do, Nolan also helped, and between them, the boys got the young woman back on her feet.
"Oh... oh my" an exceptionally dazed Delia groaned as she rubbed her head, a pained expression on her face, "Well that wasn't very pleasant".
"No... sorry that Pikachu did that Mom" Ash apologised, scowling down at his partner.
"Pi!" Pikachu smirked, unaffected and clearly unremorseful.
Frowning darkly, Ash decided to put his troublesome partner out of his mind for the time being. He'd deal with that pesky little Pokemon later. Right now he needed to say goodbye to his mother.
Nolan, sensing that this should be a private moment between a mother and son, silently stepped away with Meadow to give them some privacy. Professor Oak, noticing this, smiled and did the same, heading back up the driveway in the direction of his laboratory. He'd check in with Delia later on to ensure that she was okay following Ash's parting. Come to think of it, he should probably check that Nathaniel was handling Nolan's departure alright as well.
"Well... I guess it's time I get going" Ash started awkwardly once he and Delia were alone.
Delia's smile was incredibly forlorn in that moment.
"I guess so" she agreed sadly.
"I'm really going to miss you Mom" Ash admitted as he felt a surge of emotion course through him at the thought of actually leaving his mother behind.
Delia's resolve to be strong broke at those words. Sobbing, she flung herself forwards, wrapping her baby boy up in the tightest hug she could possibly manage.
"I'm going to miss you too Ash" she admitted tearfully, "So, so much. Please, please take care of yourself sweetheart".
"I will, I promise" Ash hugged her back.
Pulling back, Delia wiped her tears away, before allowing a slightly mischievous look to etch itself into her face.
"And don't forget to change your underwear" she reminded her son in a slightly raised tone of voice, "Every single day!"
Ash's face immediately turned a bright crimson.
"Mom!" he exclaimed, horrified and flustered that she'd just said that, "Don't say things like that around other people! Someone might hear you!"
"Yeah, I heard that!" Nolan called from his spot a few feet away.
Ash groaned and hung his head, just knowing that he'd never hear the end of that particular brand of teasing now. Delia on the other hand just laughed at the boys' antics before she smiled down at her son fondly.
"But seriously Ash" she continued, all jokes aside now, "I'm so very proud of you. Just do your best, and I know everything will work out just fine. Good luck sweetheart".
Ash smiled up at her, genuinely touched by her kind words.
"Thanks, Mom" he said emotionally, "Bye".
And then, with a rather heavy heart, Ash turned away from the strongest woman he'd ever known, and walked over to join his best friend. Begrudgingly, Pikachu trailed along behind him, soon joining up with Nolan and Meadow. Together, the two boys and their Pokemon started walking off down the path that led to the border of Pallet Town.
They were finally heading out on their journey.
And it was gonna be... amazing.
And there's chapter four : )
Like I said earlier, I really wasn't sure about including these events at first since they aren't really all that different to canon - but then I reasoned, how can I do a rewrite of the Pokemon anime and not show Ash getting Pikachu? I just couldn't do it ; )
Anyway, we are finally making some process now. About time too - I really want to get my Nuzlocke properly going. And on that note, I have another new subject for you guys to vote on : )
In my game, I have played up to arriving in Cerulean City, and thus have encountered several more Pokemon. That's right - its time to pick which Pokemon gets added to the team and therefore the one that will be caught by Nolan in this story : )
Pokemon Options -
Viridian Forest: - Caterpie - Female - Careful Nature - Shield Dust Ability
Mt Moon: - Geodude - Female - Relaxed Nature - Rock Head Ability
Route 4: - Ekans - Female - Timid Nature - Intimidate Ability
Now I'm sure someone is going to be confused about why there isn't an encountered listed for Route 3. Well the reason for that is that when I grouped all the routes togethers into groups of three, there were some routes that I decided I wanted to come back to an get an encounter for later on in the game. This is so I can increase my chances of getting a variety of Pokemon using the duplicates clause. So I will be coming back later on to get my encounter for Route 3.
What I also find kinda funny is that no matter which Pokemon you guys choose from these three, it'll mean that Nolan will get another Pokemon that is owned by an anime character. Caterpie for Ash, Geodude for Brock, and Ekans for Jessie. Odd coincidence : )
Finally, I just wanted to give a little shout-out to someone that left a review for the last chapter that really caught my attention. If you're reading this CallmeCrazylol - thank you for reviewing. I read your story about coming up with the name 'Acacia' for a male Treecko, and I absolutely love it. I was hoping you might let me use that name if I ever get a Treecko in one of my Nuzlocke/Stories. This one is only the first I have planned after all. I already have several other stories like this one planned, but I want to get this story up and running before getting into them. Anyway, if you don't want me to, let me know and I won't. It's only fair I ask permission after all since you came up with it : ) And if anyone else has ideas for names of potential future Pokemon, I'd love to hear those too : )
Also, a massive thank you to Deant33, who has voted on every question I've asked so far. I appreciate the input from you and everyone else so please keep it up : )
I hope that you guys enjoyed this chapter, and please leave a review either to vote or just tell me what you thought since I love hearing your opinions and feedback.
Until the next time, keep on reading : )