Hello dear readers, here is the next chapter of this story. I promise this time I'll be much more active with this story and the others. I hope you enjoy it.
Chapter 6: Shared Will
The group of researchers from Kanto ventured into the hills near Route 9, aiming to find Professor Maple and his team. Chloe had a hard time keeping up with the two; they didn't seem to care if they might get hurt by a branch or a rock. But she tried to be very careful. Maybe it was her inexperience, but this way she felt safer.
"Hey, don't fall behind, Chloe. We need to hurry if we want to find Professor Maple," Goh exclaimed without stopping.
"Hey, I'm not used to this, and besides, walking in a straight line doesn't guarantee we'll get there faster," she responded, very frustrated.
On the other hand, Ash kept moving forward. As the leader of the group, he had to make sure they were on the right path or at least the safest one. "Calm down, you two. According to the location we got in the email, we're only halfway there," Ash said while checking his Rotom Dex.
After a few minutes and some stumbles by Chloe, they found themselves at the edge of a cliff. Apparently, they had to go down the mountain to continue their mission.
"Great, now how are we supposed to continue?" Chloe exclaimed, frustrated by the situation. Meanwhile, Ash was looking for a way to reach the bottom without jumping into the void.
After a few minutes, he found an alternative route. "Look, we can go down this way. It's a bit steep, but we can make it to the bottom," Ash said, pointing to the path they needed to take.
Chloe, seeing the route Ash proposed, swallowed nervously. She wasn't very athletic or daring like the other two; one mistake could cost her life. "You're crazy, we could slip and fall to the bottom. I didn't come here to break my neck, you know," she criticized his plan.
"Hey, don't worry. If we do it carefully, we'll get down without a problem. Don't worry, I'll be there with you," Ash replied, trying to earn her trust. Chloe had many doubts but deep down, she knew that if they wanted to complete their mission, they had to get down. So she agreed, "Alright, I'll do it."
The three, now determined, took Ash's route and started to descend. Chloe was extremely nervous with every step they took. So Ash and Goh waited and helped her down each rock. For a moment, it seemed like everything was going well and she even started to feel more relaxed. But one small misstep changed everything.
While trying to descend a rock, Chloe slipped, lost her grip, and almost plummeted into the void. She only had time to scream and close her eyes, expecting a painful fall. But nothing happened. When she opened her eyes, she saw that Ash had caught her.
"Wow, be careful. Didn't you say you didn't want to break your neck?" Ash said, laughing while holding her in his arms. Chloe, seeing the situation she was in, blushed. On one hand, she was very annoyed that Ash had convinced her to do something so dangerous. But on the other hand, she felt butterflies in her stomach seeing that Ash had saved her. After all, he had promised that he wouldn't let anything bad happen to her.
While they were still holding each other, Goh and Pikachu just watched the scene, very puzzled. For Goh, it was becoming increasingly evident that there was some chemistry between them. It wasn't hard to see despite how often they couldn't stand each other. "Please tell me we're not going to start doing this often. It makes me a little uncomfortable," the boy sighed.
Chloe couldn't shake off the fluttering feeling in her stomach as they continued their descent. She kept replaying the moment Ash had caught her over and over in her mind, each time feeling a strange mix of irritation and warmth. She tried to focus on the path ahead, but her thoughts kept drifting back to him.
"Why does he have to be so... so him?" Chloe muttered to herself, frustrated.
Goh, noticing her flustered state, chuckled softly. "You okay, Chloe?"
"I'm fine!" she snapped, a bit too quickly. "I just don't get why you two always have to rush into everything without thinking. It's reckless."
"Hey, Ash has a good sense of direction and he always looks out for us," Goh said, defending his friend. "You should trust him more."
"It's not about trust," Chloe replied, though even she wasn't convinced by her own words. She sighed, trying to gather her thoughts. "It's just... I don't know. I prefer having a plan."
Goh smiled knowingly but didn't push further. He could see Chloe was struggling with something deeper, and he suspected it had a lot to do with Ash.
As they reached the bottom of the steep path, Ash turned around, his face bright with a smile. "See? I told you we'd make it!"
Chloe couldn't help but smile back, albeit reluctantly. "Yeah, yeah, you were right. But next time, let's find a safer route, okay?"
"Deal," Ash said, giving her a thumbs-up. He then turned to lead the way again, his confidence and enthusiasm unshaken.
Chloe watched him go, feeling her heart race. She tried to convince herself that it was just the adrenaline from the climb. "I don't like him," she thought fiercely. "He's just a friend, and he's annoying and reckless. That's all."
But even as she thought this, a part of her knew it wasn't entirely true. There was something about Ash's unwavering positivity and his ability to make her feel safe that she couldn't ignore.
"Ugh, this is so frustrating," she muttered under her breath.
Pikachu, who had been trotting alongside her, looked up with a curious "Pika?"
Chloe sighed and smiled at the little Pokémon trying to avoid those feelings at any cost.
After a few miles, the Kanto team saw a group of scientists and their research equipment in the distance. Clearly, they were the ones who had requested their help. Without thinking twice, they approached them.
"Hello, excuse us for the delay. We were tasked with bringing you this component made with a special berry from our region," Ash explained to the group of scientists, but none of them responded. It seemed they were waiting for their leader to address them.
"Well, well, I suppose Professor Cerise doesn't have a more experienced team. I'm quite surprised that it's just a group of kids," a voice said from behind a tree. Ash and his companions turned their attention to the man.
By his appearance, they could deduce that he was Professor Maple. He wore the characteristic lab coat of Pokémon professors, and his eyes were obscured by the glasses he wore. Ash couldn't quite pinpoint why, but he felt something off about the man.
"Sorry for the delay, Professor. It wasn't easy accessing this area, but we're here to help," Chloe tried to apologize to the professor.
"Well, completing your mission is what matters. However, I think we're going to need more help from you. My assistants haven't been able to assemble the device we need to attract the rare Pokémon. Additionally, in case it becomes aggressive, we'll need a capable Pokémon trainer to contain it," Professor Maple explained their predicament.
"Well, if it's to help you, I guess that's fine," Ash replied, a bit hesitant about what they had to do.
"Excellent. I'm going to need you to help us assemble the device, and then, if necessary, assist me in containing the Pokémon," Professor Maple exclaimed, sounding enthusiastic.
As they set up their equipment and got to work, Chloe tried to focus solely on the task at hand. Professor Maple explained the details of how the formula they created should attract the rare Pokémon they were studying.
Chloe was assigned to help Ash with setting up some of the more sensitive instruments. Despite her best efforts to stay professional, she couldn't help but notice how close they were working together.
"Can you pass me that cable?" Ash asked, his voice breaking her concentration.
"Sure," Chloe replied, handing it to him. She couldn't help but notice the warmth in his eyes as he smiled at her.
"Thanks," he said. "You know, you did great back there. Not everyone would have handled that climb as well as you did."
Chloe felt a blush creeping up her cheeks. "It was nothing," she mumbled, trying to downplay her anxiety and feelings.
"Seriously," Ash continued, "I know it was tough for you, but you pushed through. That's pretty impressive."
Chloe looked away, trying to hide her smile. "Thanks, Ash," she said softly. "I guess I just didn't want to slow you guys down."
"You didn't," Ash assured her. "And besides, we're a team. We look out for each other."
Chloe's heart fluttered at his words, and she couldn't help but feel a growing admiration for him. She knew she had to stay focused, but it was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore her feelings.
Meanwhile, Goh was helping the professor with creating the bait using the compound they had brought. He was very curious about the rare Pokémon; Professor Cerise had practically told them it was a new species, and for him, that was one of the most important things he could do before catching Mew.
"Excuse me, Professor Maple, could you tell me what the Pokémon we're going to attract looks like? I was told it's one that has never been seen before," Goh asked, very curious about his research. But Professor Maple didn't respond immediately; he just stared into space as if he were thinking about what to say.
"Without a doubt, it's like no other. We believe it might be unique in its kind, but you'll soon see. This project has brought me closer to achieving one of my greatest goals. Finding this Pokémon could signify a significant change in the world of science," Professor Maple explained, almost sounding a bit megalomaniacal. Goh laughed nervously upon hearing the professor. He seemed a bit unhinged.
After an hour, everyone managed to set up the device and the bait. Now it was just a matter of time before their target arrived. The scientists and the Kanto team hid behind some bushes, waiting for the Pokémon to come for the bait.
"Hey, do you think this Pokémon is very strong? Considering the precautions they're taking, I'd assume it is," Goh asked his companions.
"I don't know, Goh, but if it really is a never-before-seen Pokémon, we'll be part of history for being the first to collect data on it," Chloe responded, somewhat excited.
Ash, on the other hand, seemed worried. Something had been bothering him since they arrived; he questioned the true motive for bringing the compound and sensed that Professor Maple didn't have the best intentions.
"Hey Ash, are you okay?" Goh asked his friend, noticing how serious he was.
"Something doesn't feel right. I understand the reason for bringing the bait, but what we helped build makes me think it's a trap, like he wants to capture it," Ash responded.
Chloe, noticing the concern on Ash's face, chimed in. "Ash, a recognized Pokémon professor wouldn't do something so barbaric. They dedicate their lives to studying and protecting Pokémon, not trapping them for selfish reasons."
Ash looked at her, appreciating her attempt to reassure him but still feeling uneasy. "I hope you're right, Chloe. But there's something about this whole situation that doesn't sit well with me."
Before they could discuss it further, the rustling of leaves and a soft, otherworldly sound drew their attention. The scientists and the Kanto team tensed, peering through the foliage to catch a glimpse of what was approaching.
From the sky, a winged creature began to descend. It was large, but as they observed its body, the three of them were left speechless by what they saw—it seemed like a mix between a reptile and a bird. Despite having traveled for over eight years in the Pokémon world, Ash had never seen a creature like this, although for some reason it reminded him of his Pidgeot.
The mysterious Pokémon landed where the bait was placed, attracted by its aroma without realizing it was walking into a trap.
"I can't believe what I'm seeing. It's like a bird mixed with a reptile," Chloe exclaimed, astonished by such a strange creature.
"Incredible! It must be very strong. I wish I could catch it," Goh exclaimed excitedly but knew that wasn't the case.
Before anyone could do anything, Ash stepped out of his hiding place and began walking toward the mysterious Pokémon.
"Ash, what are you doing? Don't go near it," Chloe said, worried, but he didn't listen.
Upon emerging from his hiding place, the mysterious Pokémon noticed his presence and confronted him. As Ash got closer, he could confirm that this Pokémon had many characteristics similar to a Pidgeot.
"Pidgeotttt," the winged beast roared, flapping its wings and trying to intimidate the boy.
But Ash wasn't afraid; he seemed fascinated by the creature. "It's okay, don't worry. I'm not here to harm you. I've never seen anything like you before. Such a fascinating creature," Ash said sincerely.
The Pokémon, sensing his intentions, realized he was not a threat. Just as the boy was intrigued by it, the Pokémon was also intrigued by him.
Just as Ash extended his hand to touch the creature, a net crackling with electricity shot out from the side and ensnared the Pokémon, causing it to shriek in pain.
"No!" Ash shouted, turning to see Professor Maple holding a remote control with a triumphant look on his face.
"This is the only way to capture and study it properly," Maple declared, his voice cold and determined.
The creature thrashed wildly, trying to break free from the electric net, but its struggles only seemed to increase its agony. Ash's heart raced with anger and desperation. "You can't do this! Let it go!"
Chloe and Goh quickly emerged from their hiding places, their faces filled with horror. "Professor, this isn't right!" Chloe yelled. "You're hurting it!"
Ignoring their pleas, Professor Maple pressed a button on his remote, tightening the net and increasing the voltage. "Science requires sacrifices. This specimen could change everything we know about Pokémon evolution."
"Several years ago, my team of researchers and I started discovering how certain Pokémon had drastically changed when exposed to different environments. Similar to the regional forms of Alola and Galar, we noticed that some specimens began to change in a drastic manner, both physically and biologically. These Pokémon came to be known as Delta Pokémon. They are unique species that have pushed the limits of their bodies, changing their type and the abilities they can possess. The one we have here is a Delta variation of a Pidgeot, much more powerful than a normal Pokémon. Additionally, its level of evolution is far greater than anything known. These Pokémon could represent the future, an unprecedented advancement in the field of genetics, with the goal of creating a perfect organism."
Ash, Chloe, and Goh listened in stunned silence as Professor Maple continued his explanation. The weight of his words began to sink in, but it did nothing to ease their anger and concern.
"But that's no excuse for the cruelty you're inflicting on these Pokémon," Ash argued, his voice filled with determination. "There are better ways to study them without causing harm."
Professor Maple shook his head dismissively. "You don't understand the stakes. This research is too important. Sometimes, sacrifices must be made for the greater good."
Chloe clenched her fists, her frustration boiling over. "No! No true Pokémon professor would ever condone such methods. You're only thinking about your ambitions, not the well-being of the Pokémon."
Goh stepped forward, standing by Ash and Chloe. "We won't let you get away with this."
Professor Maple's eyes narrowed, and his expression hardened. "You're naive. But fine, if you think you can handle it, be my guest. But know this—you're meddling in things you don't fully understand."
Ash turned back to the injured Delta Pidgeot, who was watching the confrontation with wary eyes. He reached out gently, offering a reassuring touch. "We won't let him hurt you again," Ash promised softly. "We'll protect you."
Just then, the Delta Pidgeot began to stir, sensing the sincerity in Ash's words. It stretched its wings and stood tall, its gaze shifting from the professor to Ash, Chloe, and Goh. It seemed to understand that they were its allies.
The other scientists, having witnessed the exchange and the conviction of the young trainers, began to waver. One of them stood for himself and exclaimed "We shouldn't be harming these Pokémon. Our goal should be to study and protect them in their natural habitats. Professor Maple, this has gone too far."
Professor Maple's face twisted with rage, but he could see the tide turning against him. "You're all fools! You're throwing away the future of Pokémon research!"
"That's the least of our concerns. If you won't stop this peacefully, we'll have to do it the hard way," Ash exclaimed, ready for a fight. He quickly took out a Pokéball and sent out his Lucario.
Professor Maple, seeing Ash's challenge, was not intimidated. He reached into his coat, pulled out a Pokéball, and released his Electabuzz. "You weak-minded fools will never understand. I suppose I'll have to punish you kids."
Ash and Lucario prepared to battle against Professor Maple's Pokémon, but they were not alone. The rest of the scientists released six more Pokémon to support their leader. Outnumbered, Ash felt the battle might be lost.
"Don't worry, Ash, we're with you," Goh said before sending out his trusty Cinderace to join the battle. "Thanks, buddy, we can do this."
Chloe was nervous about battling against them. The sheer number of Pokémon they were facing made her heart race, and she hesitated, unsure of herself. But seeing Ash and Goh standing firm, ready to fight, gave her the courage she needed. She knew they needed her help.
Taking a deep breath, Chloe pushed her fears aside. "Eevee, I need you," she called out, releasing her Pokémon. Eevee appeared, looking up at her with determined eyes.
"Let's do this together, Eevee," Chloe said, her voice steadying. "We can't let them hurt the Delta Pokémon."
Ash glanced over at her, a grateful smile on his face. "Thanks, Chloe. We can win this together."
Professor Maple sneered, "You think three kids and their Pokémon can stand up to us? Pathetic."
Lucario charged up a glowing ball of energy and hurled it at Electabuzz, who barely managed to dodge it. "Electabuzz, counter with Thunderbolt!" Maple commanded. Electabuzz unleashed a powerful bolt of electricity, but Lucario agilely dodged it.
"Eevee, use Quick Attack on the left!" Chloe shouted. Eevee dashed forward with incredible speed, striking one of the opposing Pokémon and disrupting their formation.
Goh commanded his Cinderace, "Use Pyro Ball on the Pokémon in the center!" Cinderace kicked a blazing ball of fire towards the cluster of enemy Pokémon, causing them to scatter.
The battle was intense. Despite being outnumbered, Ash, Goh, and Chloe coordinated their attacks seamlessly, supporting each other and their Pokémon.
Lucario and Cinderace fought side by side, with Eevee weaving in and out to distract and harass the opposing Pokémon. Each time one of them was cornered, the others would leap in to assist, their teamwork proving to be their greatest strength.
"Lucario, Bone Rush!" Ash commanded. Lucario formed a glowing bone staff and charged at Electabuzz, landing several hits and driving it back.
"Cinderace, High Jump Kick!" Goh ordered. Cinderace leaped into the air and delivered a powerful kick to another Pokémon, knocking it out of the fight.
"Eevee, use Shadow Ball!" Chloe directed. Eevee formed a dark orb of energy and launched it at a nearby Pokémon, hitting it squarely and causing it to retreat.
One of the enemy Golbats use an Razor wind attack to damage all their enemies. But Lucario use his aura control to create a barrier to protect himself and his allies.
The Delta Pidgeot, amidst its pain, could see how those strangers and their Pokémon were defending it with all their strength. Being a different Pokémon, it had always been excluded from everywhere it went, even among its own species. But now, there were people protecting it.
Delta Pidgeot couldn't let these humans suffer for its well-being, so with all its might, it began to free itself from the electric net. "PIDGEOTTTT!" the chimera Pokémon roared, and with a powerful flap of its wings, it broke free from the net. Everyone was astonished to see that the Delta Pokémon had freed itself. This gave it time to take flight and launch an attack against its opponents.
"But what is it doing?" Goh asked, seeing the Delta Pokémon preparing to attack. Ash was stunned to witness an attack never seen before. Delta Pidgeot shot a kind of yellow beam from its eyes. Upon impact, its rivals began to petrify, becoming immobile.
"This can't be, it's not possible," Professor Maple exclaimed, frightened by the power of the Delta Pokémon. After immobilizing its enemies, the Delta Pokémon let out a powerful scream. The attack was so strong that it created a shockwave, knocking down all its enemies and leaving them out of combat.
"It's impossible, how can we lose to a freak?" the professor exclaimed, frustrated by the outcome, not realizing he had neglected his battle. Ash seized the opportunity for Lucario to deliver the final blow to his Electabuzz.
"Quick, Lucario, finish it with Magnum Kick," Ash commanded his partner. Professor Maple's Electabuzz couldn't react in time, and with a strong move, Lucario delivered the kick, causing an explosion at the point of impact. This was enough to send Electabuzz flying back toward its trainer.
Defeated, Professor Maple tried to stand up and managed to say before falling unconscious, "No... my future..."
As Professor Maple collapsed, his final words echoing in the tense silence, the remaining scientists realized the battle was lost. They hesitated, then began retreating, dragging their unconscious Pokémon with them.
Ash, Chloe, and Goh stood firm, their Pokémon by their sides, watching as the adversaries fled. Delta Pidgeot, now free and powerful, circled above, keeping a watchful eye on the scene.
Chloe let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding. "We did it," she whispered, her voice filled with relief.
Ash nodded, looking up at Delta Pidgeot with gratitude. "Yeah, we did. Thanks to Delta Pidgeot."
Goh stepped forward, his eyes shining with admiration. "That was amazing. I've never seen a Pokémon like that before."
Delta Pidgeot descended, landing gracefully in front of them. It looked at the three trainers, its eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and curiosity. Ash stepped forward, extending a hand in a gesture of peace.
"Thank you for helping us," Ash said sincerely. "You're incredible."
Delta Pidgeot seemed to understand. It bowed its head slightly, acknowledging their efforts and friendship.
Chloe, still amazed by the power and beauty of Delta Pidgeot, approached cautiously. "Do you think it will be okay now?"
Ash nodded. "I think so. It's strong and capable. It can take care of itself, but now it knows it has friends."
Goh added, "And maybe it won't feel so alone anymore."
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the forest, Delta Pidgeot spread its magnificent wings, ready to take flight. It let out a powerful cry, a sound of freedom and newfound hope.
"Goodbye, Delta Pidgeot. Stay safe," Ash called out as the majestic Pokémon took to the sky, disappearing into the horizon.
As they watched the chimera Pokémon disappear, Ash and company knew it was time to head back. "Well, it wasn't quite what we expected, but I think we accomplished our mission," Goh exclaimed, reflecting on what had transpired.
"Perhaps, but I'm really glad we could help that Pokémon, and to discover a new type of evolution... I wonder if there are more like it out there. According to Professor Maple, there might be," Ash mused, contemplating the possibility of encountering another Delta Pokémon.
"Well, I guess Albach was right about one thing - that guy was completely nuts," Goh laughed at the absurdity of the situation. As they walked, Chloe remained silent, deep in thought about the day's events. It had certainly been more dangerous than she had anticipated, but she felt at ease knowing she had them by her side.
"Hey, Chloe, I gotta say, for a bookworm, you sure can hold your own in battle," Ash teased, resuming his playful banter. Chloe couldn't help but recall how annoying the Pallet Town boy could be.
"Well, next time, don't doubt my abilities. Even though I may not have much battle experience, someone with proper preparation like me can handle anything," Chloe retorted, trying to sound convincing.
However, Ash knew she was just boasting, but he was genuinely impressed by her. When he first met her, he only saw her as a stubborn bookworm, someone who spent more time studying than living life. But now things would be different. There was something about her that reminded him of himself. Not that he was much older than her, but she reminded him of how he used to be. There was a world of possibilities and potential to explore.
"Well, I suppose you'll be joining us more often now, huh?" Ash said with a smile, momentarily forgetting how annoying he could be. He couldn't deny that every time he spent time with her, it was like a rollercoaster of emotions. Sometimes she could be annoying, and sometimes he felt like he wanted to spend more time with her.
Chloe didn't know what would happen between them, but she felt she needed to talk to someone about it, maybe someone could advise her on this whole matter of boys.
Well, guys, I hope you really enjoyed this chapter. Today I tried to write as quickly as possible so you can see that I'm serious about being more active with this story. Please leave me a comment; it really motivates me to keep writing.