Disclaimer: I do not own Pokémon
The Relentless Ember
Chapter 1 - The Will to Challenge Gods is Born
The wind roared across the jagged cliffs, a relentless force that threatened to knock Ash from his precarious grip on the mountainside. He tightened his hold on a weathered boulder, his fingers aching from the six-hour climb. His breathing was ragged, his limbs screamed for rest, but he ignored them. Below him, the forest stretched endlessly, a sea of green that looked so small now - just like the world he had left behind when he began his ascent.
He wasn't sure what had driven him to climb this peak. Maybe it was curiosity, or maybe it was something deeper. His father, Silver, had spoken of this place several times before, of the wild power that resided at its peak. Of forces beyond human control. Ash had listened, but he had never truly understood. How could he? The most powerful person he had ever known was his father and his powerful line up of Pokémon that could reshape entire landscapes with their might.
But he had never seen a force like the one he had heard stories about since he was a little boy. He simply couldn't imagine anything stronger than his father. Today, he wanted to see the so-called Legend that on rare occasions, perhaps every few decades, rests at the summit of Mt. Ember.
The air around him was growing hotter. It was subtle at first, a strange warmth licking at his skin despite the harsh wind. But the higher he climbed, the more oppressive it became. It wasn't the sun-no, the sun had long since begun its descent. This heat was something else. Something alive.
He gritted his teeth and pushed forward, each step feeling heavier than the last. The wind howled, carrying embers that flickered in the air like dying stars. His shirt clung to his sweat-slicked skin, but he didn't stop. He couldn't stop. He never learned how to stop.
Then, after what felt like an eternity, he reached the peak.
Ash's breath hitched as he took in the sight before him.
There, standing atop the highest point of the mountain, a large platform housed the legend that was overlooking the pool of roaring magma that seemed to only move because the being that sat on its throne allowed it to.
Moltres.
The Legendary Pokémon was unlike anything he had ever seen. Unlike any Pokémon he had ever seen. Its body was wreathed in golden-red flames, a living inferno that flickered and danced with every movement. The fire didn't consume it-it was the fire. Its wings stretched wide, embers trailing in their wake as if the very air ignited at its presence.
The sheer power radiating from the creature was suffocating. The heat pressed down on Ash like a physical force, making his lungs burn with every breath. His heart pounded in his chest, his body screaming at him to flee.
But he couldn't look away.
Moltres moved with an elegance that was almost unnatural, each beat of its massive wings stirring the wind and sending waves of heat rolling over the mountaintop. It wasn't just strong - it was something more. Something beyond strength. A force of nature. A god made flesh and fire.
And then, for just a moment, it looked at him.
Ash's whole body locked up.
The crimson faze of the Firebird bore into him, through him, as if it were peering into the very depths of his soul. It wasn't looking at him like a person would - it wasn't curious or surprised. It was indifferent. He was nothing to it. Less than nothing.
For the first time in his life, Ash understood what his father had meant.
"Legendary Pokémon are beyond us, Ash."
"You can challenge them, you can battle them, but in the end, they are forces of nature while we are only mortal. You cannot conquer nature. You can only survive it."
But Ash didn't want to just survive.
His hands clenched into fists, his nails digging into his palms. His breath came in short, heated gasps as he tried to process the enormity of what he was seeing, what he was feeling.
Fear.
Awe.
And deep within him, buried beneath the terror, was something else.
Something burning.
Moltres spread its wings, the motion sending a wave of scorching air across the mountaintop. Ash felt his skin prickle, sweat evaporating the instant it formed. He had to shield his eyes as the bird made of fire let out a cry - a sound that wasn't just heard but felt, vibrating in his very bones. It was a sound of power, of absolute dominion over the world around it.
Then, with a single, effortless motion, Moltres took to the skies.
The flames around its body burned brighter as it soared higher and higher, leaving behind a trail of embers that danced in the wind. Within moments, it was gone, a streak of golden fire vanishing beyond the horizon.
And just like that, the mountain, the once seemingly active and alive volcano, now felt empty and dead.
Ash stood there, his breath ragged, his body trembling - not from exhaustion, but from something far greater.
That thing - Moltres - was beyond human reach. A being of pure, unshackled power. A creature that no trainer could ever hope to match. A power that no mortal should ever dream of facing much less matching.
But the fire in Ash's chest only burned hotter. Because even as every instinct in every fiber of his being screamed at him toa accept what he had seen - to understand that his father had been right - he refused.
Not because he felt himself above that incredible power. Not because he was foolish. But because he had seen what true power looked like and he wanted it. He didn't want to chase after positions of power like so many trainers desired and trained for.
To become a gym leader? Pathetic.
To become an elite four member? To weak.
To become champion? Why become a champion when you can become a god?
He wanted to reach that level of godlike power. Through his own perseverance, he wanted to reach that level. To burn just as brightly. To stand in the presence of legends and not be looked at like an ant.
He wanted to challenge them.
To battle the very forces that shaped the world.
Not out of some childish dream nor a reckless desire for strength.
But because if there were forces in this world that stood above all others, then he would rise to meet them.
His father had always said that mortals could never reach the heights of legends. But that was because he failed to reach that level.
Ash would not fail. He would surpass his father. He would prove him wrong.
His hands trembled as he stared at the horizon where Moltres had disappeared. His whole body still ached from the climb, but he barely felt it. His mind was elsewhere. His heart was burning.
He didn't want to just be strong.
He wanted to be the strongest.
He wanted to walk the same path as the forces of nature, the gods of this world - and force them to acknowledge him.
A slow grin spread across his face, one that had nothing to do with joy and everything to do with the sheer, unshakable certainty of what he had decided he would pursue in his life.
He had come to this mountain searching for adventure.
He had instead found his purpose.
With renewed energy, he turned away from the peak, the embers of Moltres's passing still glowing faintly around him. The journey ahead would be brutal. Impossible even.
But Ash didn't care.
The impossible would not stop him.
Nothing would stop him.
The wind was still heavy with the lingering embers of Moltres's passing when Silver reached the peak. His boots crunched against the scorched rock as he climbed the final stretch, his sharp eyes scanning the summit until they landed on the lone figure standing there.
Ash.
His son stood frozen at the edge of the crater that led to the sea of magma below. His fists were clenched so tightly that Silver could see the trickle of blood going down. His dark hair was tousled by the wind, his clothes damp with sweat from the grueling climb. And yet, despite the exhaustion Silver knew he must be feeling, there was something unshakable in the way he held himself.
Silver's breath caught in his throat.
He knew that look.
It was the same look he had worn when he had first laid eyes on the living incarnation of fire so many years ago. That unblinking stare. That raw, burning hunger.
Something had awakened in his son.
Silver took slow, careful steps toward him, his presence announced only by the crunch of gravel beneath his boots. Chikorita shifted slightly on his shoulder but didn't make a sound, its leafy head swaying with the mountain breeze. He stopped a few feet away, giving Ash space.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" Silver's voice was calm, measured, but there was an undeniable edge of something deeper beneath it.
Ash didn't turn to face him. His eyes remained fixed on the horizon where Moltres had vanished. His breathing was still uneven, but there was a steadiness to it now. A quiet control.
"It wasn't just beautiful," Ash finally said, his voice hoarse from the dry heat. "It was…impossible."
Silver let out a quiet chuckle, but there was no humor in it. He knew what Ash was trying to express. "That's what I thought, too."
At this, Ash did turn. His deep brown eyes locked onto Silver's, and for a moment, neither father nor son spoke.
"Did you ever fight it?" Ash asked. His father often mentioned seeing Moltres and told stories about it. Ash had always suspected that his dad had tried to get strong enough to fight it, but Silver never mentioned it.
Silver let out a slow exhale. "Yes."
The weight of that single word settled between them. Ash's hands tightened at his sides.
"And?"
Silver looked up at the darkening sky, the colors still faintly tinged with gold from Moltres's passing. He absentmindedly ran a hand along Chikorita's head, feeling the familiar texture of its leaf. "I lost."
Ash's lips parted slightly, but no words came.
"I spent years chasing after it," Silver continued, his gaze distant, as if looking beyond time itself. "Trained harder than anyone. Built a team of Pokémon that could take on any champion. I thought I had what it took. And then, when the moment came…" He shook his head. "It wasn't even close."
The words weren't bitter. They weren't regretful. They were simply the truth. Silver had long since acknowledged the fact that he had never stood a chance against the legend.
Ash swallowed, his mind racing with the implications.
"Did you know you couldn't win?" Ash asked.
Silver smirked. "Perhaps I always knew. Maybe I ignored that feeling my whole life, but that same feeling was also what drove me past insanity to try and reach that impossible goal."
Ash's brow furrowed, confusion flickering across his face. "Then why did you do it?"
Silver turned fully toward his son, his expression unreadable. "Because I had to."
Ash's breath hitched.
Silver stepped closer, his sharp crimson eyes burning with something fierce. "You saw Moltres. The way it moved. The way it existed. That wasn't just a Pokémon, Ash. It was a force of nature. A living legend. And legends… they don't follow our rules."
Ash's hands curled into fists. That caused him to question the spark that had surged into his very soul. "But if that's true, then what's the point? Why even try?"
Silver grinned. It was a knowing, almost proud expression. "Because 'impossible' only stays impossible until someone makes it possible."
Ash's heart pounded.
"That's what it means to chase legends," Silver continued, his voice steady. "To become a legend yourself. To stand at the edge of what the world tells you can't be done and do it anyway."
Ash's entire body tensed. "Do you regret it?"
Silver chuckled, shaking his head. "Never for a second."
Ash turned away, his eyes once again searching the sky. The embers from Moltres had nearly faded now, but the clouds still felt it—the heat, the pressure, the sheer weight of what he had witnessed.
For the first time in his life, he had seen what true power looked like. And it had looked back at him as if he was nothing.
The fire in his chest flared.
"Is that why you kept insisting I climb Mt. Ember before starting my journey? Did you know Moltres would be here?" Ash murmured.
"Let's just say I was hoping it kept following its habit of resting here." Silver shrugged, causing Ash to sweat-drop a little. Chikorita gave a small noise of amusement, its leaf brushing against Silver's cheek as he absently scratched under its chin.
Silence stretched between them, but it wasn't empty. It was charged.
Ash let out a slow, shaky breath. "You spent your whole life trying to beat something unbeatable."
Silver nodded.
"And you lost."
"Yep."
Ash closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them again. "Then I'll just have to win."
Silver's grin faded.
For the first time in years, he felt it—that old fire, burning in his chest like an ember that had never truly died.
He took a slow step forward, placing a firm hand on Ash's shoulder. His grip was strong, solid, grounding.
"You don't have to chase my dream, Ash," Silver said quietly. "This isn't something I can force onto you."
Ash didn't flinch, and he felt a strange sensation at being called by his name from his father, who usually referred to him as half-pint despite the fact he was quite tall for his age of fourteen. "I know. But this isn't your dream anymore. It's my dream."
Silver searched his son's eyes, looking for doubt, hesitation, anything—but there was none.
All he saw was fire.
His fire.
Chikorita let out a soft, approving chirp, nudging against Silver's neck as if sensing the gravity of the moment.
A slow smile stretched across Silver's face. "Then let's make sure you don't lose."
Ash's answering grin was sharp as a blade. "I don't plan to."
The last ember from Moltres's passing flickered once more in the wind—then vanished. But the fire in Ash's heart had only just begun to burn. And eventually, it would grow into a blazing inferno that would light up the world.
The descent from Mt. Ember was easier than the climb, but Ash barely noticed. His legs were sore, his hands raw, but none of that mattered. His mind was still burning with the image of Moltres, the embodiment of fire and power, soaring into the heavens as if the world itself bent to its will.
He wanted that. He wanted to challenge that.
Silver walked beside him, his father's steps steady and controlled, betraying none of the aches Ash knew he must have felt. Ash had always admired that about him - his unshakable presence, the way he carried himself like he feared nothing. And yet, for the first time, Ash felt like he understood his father in a way he never had before.
Chikorita perched comfortably on Silver's shoulder, its leafy head swaying gently with each step, its calm presence a quiet contrast to the intensity of the moment.
They reached the base of the mountain just as the last light of day faded into night. The air here was cooler, the oppressive heat of the peak nothing but a memory, but Ash still felt it on his skin, still felt the weight of that gaze on his soul.
Silver stopped near a small outcrop, turning to face Ash, while Chikorita hopped down from his shoulder, settling on nearby rock, its curious gaze flickering between Ash and Silver. Silver's black eyes - so much like Ash's - studied him carefully. "So," Silver said, his voice calm but carrying an edge of something deeper. "What's next?"
Ash exhaled, glancing up at the sky. The stars were beginning to appear, their faint flow nothing compared to the fire that had filled the heavens mere hours ago. He clenched his fists. "I get stronger."
Silver's lips twitched into something that wasn't quite a smirk, wasn't quite a smile. "And how do you plan on doing that half-pint?"
Ash met his father's gaze without hesitation. "I train. I battle. I push myself harder than anyone else ever has."
Silver chuckled, shaking his head. "Sounds simple when you say it like that."
Ash's expression didn't change. "It's not. I know that."
Silver was quiet for a moment, watching him. Then with a slow breath, he reached into his coat.
"I thought you might say that," he murmured, pulling out a Poké Ball.
Ash's eyes flickered to it, curiosity sparking. His father rarely gave gifts.
Silver turned the Poké Ball over in his palm, staring at it for a long moment before speaking. "You've seen what's out there now," he said, his voice lower, more serious. "You understand what it means to stand at the feet of legends, only able to look up. He held up the Poké Ball. "If you really want to walk that path…then you'll need a suitable partner who can keep up.
Ash's breath got caught in his throat.
Silver pressed the ball into Ash's hand. "My father had given me my starter when I first started my journey so I thought it fitting that I continue the tradition. Meet your brother in harms. Larvitar."
Ash blinked. His fingers curled around the ball almost reverently, the smooth metal cool against his palm. He swallowed, then pressed the release. With a burst of white light, the small, sturdy form of Larvitar took shape before him.
The Pokémon landed on the ground with a soft thud, blinking up at ash with sharp red eyes. Hiss green body was compact, powerful even in his small frame, with a jagged horn protruding from his head.
For a moment, neither trainer nor Pokémon spoke.
Then Larvitar tilted its head.
Ash crouched down, studying the little Rock-type. Larvitar was…smaller than he expected. But there was something about the way Larvitar stood, the way he watched him. The two evaluated each other with a deep gaze.
A slow grin spread across Ash's face. This was Larvitar, a Pokémon that would eventually evolve into the powerhouse, Tyranitar, one of the more powerful and extremely rare Pokémon to exist, not counting legendaries.
"Hey," he said softly.
Larvitar blinked. Ash reached out a hand, letting it hover just in front of Larvitar's snout, waiting. Larvitar hesitated, then-slowly-bumped his head against Ash's fingers. Something settled in Ash's chest.
Silver watched the exchange in silence, his face unreadable. Chikortia let out a soft chirp from its perch, as if approving of the moment, and Silver absently reached over to scratch her under her chin.
Ash pulled his hand back and sat down fully, folding his legs. Larvitar took a step closer.
"You're gonna be my first Pokémon," Ash murmured, almost to himself. He glanced at Silver. "You raised it?"
Silver nodded. "For about a month since he hatched." He could not mention the immense amount of effort or money he had put in Larvitar, taking it to the terrifying Mt. Silver to eat its precious minerals and ores right after being born or giving Larvitar the best quality nutritious food money could buy. He knew it would be better with Ash not knowing that and he truly wanted to see how far he could go with Larvitar as they were quite a difficult and resource intensive Pokémon to raise. Just because he gave Larvitar a good foundation did not mean he would become a powerhouse once he evolved into Tyranitar. That would entirely depend on Ash's competence.
Ash looked back at Larvitar. "Then that means you're already strong." Larvitar puffed his chest out slightly. As chuckled, shaking his head. But you're gonna need to be stronger."
Larvitar stilled.
Ash met his gaze head-on, his expression serious. "I don't want to just win battles. I don't want to ust beat leaders or become Champion." His fingers clenched into the dirt. "I want to be the strongest trainer in the world." Larvitar didn't blink so Ash leaned forward. "I'm gonna challenge the legendaries. The beings that rule this world. The ones that people say can't be beaten." His voice dropped to a near whisper. "I'm gonna stand in front of them, and I'm gonna fight them."
The night was silent. Even the wind seemed to pause. Then - slowly - Larvitar stepped forward. He met Ash's gaze with something fierce, something unshakable. Then he nodded.
Ash's chest swelled with something indescribable. He reached out again, this time pressing his palm against Larvitar's head, feeling the rough scales beneath his fingers.
"How about I give you a name?" Ash asked and Larvitar groaned in delight from the petting. "How about…I call you Titan?"
Larvitar blinked, its red eyes searching Ash's face. Then, as if understanding the weight of the name, it gave a firm nod.
Ash grinned. "Alright, Titan. Let's get to work."
Silver chuckled from where he stood. "Good choice. That one's got the heart of a warrior."
Ash looked up at his father, his grip tightening around Titan's Poké Ball. "Then I'll make sure he becomes a legend."
Silver smirked. "Let's see half-pint…let's see."
As the stars glittered overhead, Ash and his first partner stood at the beginning of a journey that would shake the world. Chikorita let out a soft approving chirp, its leaf brushing against Silver's hand as he gave it one last scratch before they moved on.
Ash's mother, Delia, had always been a force of nature in her own right. Her emotions were as vast and unpredictable as the sea, and right now, they were crashing over Ash like a tidal wave. She had him wrapped in a tight embrace, her tears dampening his shoulder as she clung to him like he was still the little boy who had once needed her to tie his shoes.
"My baby boy," she sobbed, her voice trembling with a mix of pride and heartache. "You're really leaving?"
Ash awkwardly patted her back, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "Mom, come on, it's not like I'm leaving forever. I'll be back. I promise."
Delia pulled back slightly, her hands gripping his shoulders as she looked him over with tear-filled eyes. "But you're so young! What if something happens? What if you get hurt? What if you -?"
"Delia., Silver's calm voice cut through her rising panic. He stood a few feet away, his arms crossed, his expression as steady as ever. "He's not a child anymore. He's ready for this.
Delia shot her husband with a glare that could have melted steel, not exactly in the right state of mind to look at anything from a logical point. "Not a child? He's our baby boy, Silver!"
Silver raised an eyebrow, unfazed by the emotional outburst, clear indication that he was used to it. "This is his choice. And he's not going alone." He gestured to Titan who stood by Ash's side, watching the scene with a curious tilt of his head with a distinct expression that showed just how weird Titan thought humans were. "He's got a partner now. He'll be fine. You can't expect him to grow from a half-pint to a…well full-pint without experiencing some difficulties can you?
Delia's gaze softened as she looked down at Titan but both her and Ash's eyebrow twitched at that last bit. Ash was definitely short right now but he had just begin to hit that growth spurt, get big and then call his dad half-pint! He was still just fourteen and definitely had lots of time to grow!
The little rock type blinked up at Delia, his red eyes sharp but not unkind. For a moment, she seemed to forget her tears, her lips twitching into a small smile.
"Oh, look at you," she murmured, crouching down to Titan's level. "You're going to take care of my boy, aren't you?"
Titan smacked his stubby hands on his chest, head raised height as if he was the epitome of a competent child handler.
"I'll be the one taking care of you." Ash grumbled.
"Now listen here young man." Delia practically demanded, causing Ash to almost suffer from a whiplash with how fast his head turned towards her. Delia, while a goddess of compassion and care 99% of the time, the 1% of the time she got serious or angry, well even Silver turned into an obedient puppy, much less said puppy's offspring. "I expect you to call every so often!" Ash nodded stiffly. "And don't forget to wash your clothes and eat healthy. If you want to become big and strong like your father, you have to eat healthy. Avoid those tasteless power bars your father shoves down his throat. Ear proper meals, you got it?!"
"Yes Ma'am!" Ash saluted. His mother was scary.
And so the continuous list of things he needed to do continued with Ash being able to do nothing but listen while Silver stood there watching the spectacle with no small amount of amusement.
When Delia finally finished, he stepped in. "Now Ash…I spoke to Professor Oak and told him you will be there by tomorrow morning to get your trainer's license and Pokédex. Did you book your ticket for the ferry there?"
"I did." Ash took a deep breath, nodding as he clutched the ticket in his hand. This was it. His journey was officially beginning. His mother still looked as if she was one second away from pulling him back into another bone-crushing hug, but she self herself together - for now.
Silver, standing beside her, smirked slightly. "You've got everything you need?"
Ash nodded his head. "I packed all the essentials." Normally Delia would have put herself in charge of that but Silver had been quite insistent on having Ash pull his own weight and couldn't rely on them for everything.
There were only a couple hours left before Ash would have to leave and so the family quickly got to preparing dinner before sitting down at the dinner table.
Delia placed the final dish on the table, a steaming pot of stew, before taking her seat. She glanced at Ash, her eyes still glistening with unshed tears, but she managed a soft smile. "Eat up, sweetheart. You'll need your strength for the journey ahead."
Ash nodded, his stomach growling in anticipation. He reached for a piece of bread, but Titan, seated on a cushioned stool beside him, let out a low grumble, his red eyes fixed on the food. Ash chuckled, tearing off a piece of bread and handing it to the little Rock-type. "Here, Titan. You're part of the family now."
Titan snatched the bread with his stubby hands, sniffing it curiously before taking a cautious bite. His eyes widened, and he devoured the rest in seconds, letting out a satisfied groan. Delia laughed, her earlier sadness momentarily forgotten. "Oh, he's adorable! And such a good eater too."
Silver, searching across from Ash, smirked as he ate. "Don't let his size fool you, that little guy can eat more than all of us combined. Just wait until he evolves. You'll be begging for a second sponsor to keep him fed."
Ash grinned, patting Titan's head. "Don't worry, Titan. I'll make sure you're always well-fed. We're a team now, right?"
Titan looked up at Ash, his expression serious for a moment before nodding firmly. He reached for another piece of bread, but Ash gently pushed his hand away. "Not so fast, buddy. You've got to try the stew first. Mom's cooking is the best."
Delia beamed at the compliment, ladling a generous portion of stew into a bowl for Titan. "Here you go, dear. Careful, it's hot."
Titan sniffed the stew, his nose wrinkling slightly at the unfamiliar aroma. But after a moment's hesitation, he dipped his spoon in and took a cautious sip. His eyes lit up, and he began eating with gusto, his stubby arms moving as fast as they could. Ash laughed, shaking his head. "Guess he's a fan."
The meal continued in comfortable silence, punctuated by the occasional clink of utensils and Titan's enthusiastic grunts of approval. Delia watched Ash and Titan with a fond smile, her earlier worries momentarily eased by the sight of her son bonding with his new partner. Silver, ever the stoic figure, ate quietly, though his sharp eyes occasionally flicked to Ash, as if assessing his readiness for the journey ahead.
As the meal wound down, Delia leaned back in her chair, her expression softening. "Ash, I know I've already said this a hundred times, but… promise me you'll be careful out there. The world can be dangerous, and I just… I want you to come home safe."
Ash met her gaze, his expression serious. "I promise, Mom. I'll be careful. And I'll call you as often as I can. You'll probably get sick of hearing from me."
Delia chuckled, though her eyes were still misty. "I could never get sick of hearing from you, sweetheart."
Silver cleared his throat, drawing their attention. "Ash, remember what I told you earlier. This journey isn't just about becoming strong. It's about learning, growing, and understanding what it means to be a trainer. Titan's counting on you, just as much as you're counting on him."
Ash glanced down at Titan, who was now licking his bowl clean. The little Rock-type looked up, meeting Ash's gaze with a determined expression. Ash smiled, reaching out to ruffle Titan's head. "We're in this together, Titan. No matter what."
Titan nodded, his expression serious. He let out a low grumble, as if to say, "You'd better believe it."
Delia stood, gathering the empty plates. "Well, I suppose it's time for dessert. I made your favorite, Ash—apple pie."
Ash's eyes lit up. "You're the best, Mom!"
As Delia disappeared into the kitchen, Silver leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on Ash. "You've got a long road ahead of you, half-pint. But I have a feeling you're going to surprise a lot of people—including yourself."
Ash met his father's gaze, his expression determined. "I'll make you proud, Dad. Both of you."
Silver smirked, though there was a hint of pride in his eyes. "You already have, Ash. Just remember—strength isn't just about power. It's about heart. And from what I've seen, you've got plenty of that."
Delia returned with the pie, and the family enjoyed their dessert, the conversation light and filled with laughter. Titan, despite his small size, managed to polish off an impressive amount of pie, much to everyone's amusement. As the evening drew to a close, Ash glanced at the clock, realizing it was almost time to leave for the ferry.
Delia noticed his glance and sighed, her smile tinged with sadness. "I suppose it's time."
Ash stood, Titan hopping down from his stool to stand beside him. "Yeah. The ferry leaves in an hour."
Delia pulled him into another hug, this one softer, more resigned. "I love you, Ash. Be safe."
"I love you too, Mom," Ash replied, hugging her back tightly.
Silver stood, placing a hand on Ash's shoulder. "You've got everything you need?"
Ash nodded, slinging his backpack over his shoulder. "Yeah. Thanks, Dad."
Silver gave a single nod, his expression unreadable. "Then go. And remember—no matter what happens, we're proud of you."
Ash smiled, his heart swelling with determination. He looked down at Titan, who was already standing at the door, his red eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Ready, Titan?"
Titan let out a low, determined grunt, nodding firmly.
With one last look at his parents, Ash took a deep breath and stepped out into the night, Titan at his side. The stars glittered overhead, and the cool night air carried the faint scent of the sea. As they made their way to the docks, Ash felt a surge of excitement and determination. This was it—the beginning of his journey.
"AND DON'T FORGET TO CHANGE YOUR UNDERWEAR!" Delia shouted all too enthusiastically.
Ash and Titan face-faulted.
"MOM!"
Ash quickly got up and made his way through the small town that made up Knot Island, all the while ignoring the titters of laughter from the few residents that were awake at this time.
"Are you finally heading out, Ash?"
"Take care out there!"
"Don't forget where you came from, kid!"
"Make us proud!"
The people of Knot Island had always known him as Delia and Silver's son, more the latter, but they had also watched him grow. They believed in him. They knew he would be leaving one day, and now that the moment had come, they sent him off with nothing but support.
Ash waved to them, grinning. "I won't let you guys down!"
Finally, he reached the docks, where the ferry was waiting for its sole passenger. Standing near the entrance, a broad-shouldered man with a thick beard and a sailor's cap was leaning against a railing. When he saw Ash, his face broke into a wide grin.
"Well, if it isn't the little tyke all grown up…well in age at least."
Ash scowled at the jab at his height. "You're still calling me little, Lightweight Erik?"
The captain let out a booming laugh. "Still that little brat who can't handle height jokes. You'll always be little kid."
Ash rolled his eyes but grinned. Erik had been running the ferry between Knot Island and the neighbouring Sevii islands and the Kanto region for as long as Ash could remember. He'd taken Ash and his parents on trips before, and over the years, he had become something of a family friend.
"So, you're finally heading to Pallet for your journey, huh?" Erik said, crossing his arms. "About time. I was starting to think you'd never leave the island.
Ash chuckled. "All kids start their journey when they are fourteen."
Erik ignored the sarcasm and looked down at Titan who was staring back at him, unblinking. "And I see you got yourself a strong one."
Ash smirked. "The strongest."
TItan grunted in approval.
Erik nodded. "Good. You'll need him out there." He gestured towards the ferry. "Come on, then. Let's get you on board.
Ash took one last look at Knot Island, at the people who had raised him, at the home he was leaving behind. Then, with a final wave, he stepped onto the ferry.
The journey to Pallet town was smooth, the sea calm beneath them as the boat cut through the waves. Ash leaned against the railing, watching the water, while Titan sat beside him, staring curiously at the open ocean.
Ash glanced down at his partner. "Have you ever seen the ocean before?"
Titan shook his head.
Ash smiled. "It's pretty big, huh?"
Titan grunted, looking unimpressed.
Ash chuckled. "You'll get used to it. The world is even bigger and there are infinite challenges for us to conquer."
He reached down and listed Titan into his arms using the proper form like his father taught him. The rock-type was heavy - ridiculously so - but Ash managed to hold him for a few seconds before his arms started to shake.
"Jeez, you weigh a ton," Ash groaned, struggling to keep Titan up. He received a deadpan stare, Titan clearly unimpressed by his trainer's lack of upper body strength.
Ash gritted is teeth, forcing himself to hold on a little longer. "Dad's been making me do all that training, and I still can barely lift you."
Titan let out a huff before wriggling out of Ash;s grip, landing with a heavy thud on the deck.
Ash shook out his sore arms, sighing. "I need to get stronger."
Titan nodded in agreement.
Ash smirked. "Then let's make a deal."
Titan tilted his head.
"I'll keep training - keep getting stronger. And in return, you do the same." Ash held out a fist. "We push each other. We don't stop. We don't back down. Deal?"
Titan eyed Ash's fist for a moment before reaching out with his short arm, bumping his trainer's hand.
Ash grinned. "Good. Because we've got a lot of work to do."
Titan gave a determined grunt.
The ferry continued its journey, the sea stretching endlessly before them.
His journey had begun.
And nothing would stop him now.
The distant call of a Pidgey echoed over the water as the ship neared the docks of Pallet Town. The town itself was small—quaint compared to the bustling Knot Island—but it had a peaceful charm to it. Rolling green hills surrounded the village, and off in the distance, perched on a hill, stood Professor Oak's laboratory.
Ash stepped off the ferry and took in a deep breath. The air here was different—fresh, crisp, untouched by the scent of the sea and the volcanic heat of the Sevii Islands. It was the air of Kanto, the air of new beginnings.
Titan, his ever-stoic Larvitar, stood beside him, arms crossed as he stared at the approaching land. His small but sturdy body was unmoving even as the salty wind ruffled his green scales.
"You ready for this, buddy?" Ash asked, glancing down.
Titan gave a short grunt, his crimson eyes gleaming with determination.
Captain Erik patted him on the shoulder as he passed when the ship docked. "Good luck, kid. Make us proud."
Ash smirked. "I plan to. Do you know where Professor Oak's lab is?"
"Just head straight through town, up the hill past the windmill. Can't miss it." Erik replied back as he continued walking.
Titan followed close behind Ash, his short legs moving quickly to keep up. The dock wasn't busy, but there were a few fishermen tending to their boats and some travelers moving about.
Ash nodded. "Thanks."
The dirt path leading up to the Professor Oak's lab was well-trodden, winging through open fields before reaching the large white building at the top of the hill. Pallet Town, while quaint, had a quiet charm to it. The air was fresh, the streets were calm, and everything about it felt small and cozy.
Ash exhaled, hands in his pockets as he walked with Titan striding beside him who was taking everything in with his usually blank stare. Ash could easily guess he was unimpressed.
"Not exactly the grand entrance to our adventure, huh?" Ash mused, glancing at his partner.
Titan snorted.
Ash chuckled. "Yeah, I figured you'd say that.
They were almost at the lab's entrance when a voice - smug and full of self-importance - cut through the air.
"Well, well. What do we have here?"
Ash barely had time to process the words before a boy his age stepped onto his path, arms crossed and smirking like he had already won something. The kid had spiky brown hair, sharp eyes, and the unmistakable air of someone who thought he was important.
"You lost or something?" Ash asked.
"You don't look like you're from around here." The boy asked as he gave Ash an appraising look.
Ash raised an eyebrow. "Yeah? And you don't look like someone who minds his own business. Guess we're both making observations."
The boy's smirked widened. "Heh. Got a mouth on you, huh?"
Ash smirked back. "Got ears too. Are you planning on introducing yourself, or do I have to start guessing? Lemme see - Loudmouth McEgo? Captain Smugface?"
The boy rolled his eyes. "Tch. Name's Gary Oak. Maybe you've heard of me.:
Ash blinked. "Not even a little."
Gary's smirk twitched.
Titan snorted in amusement.
Gary folded his arms. "Yeah, well, you should remember it. I'm gonna be the strongest trainer in the world."
Ash let out a low whistle. "Wow. Aim high, huh?" Ash knew he wasn't one to talk given what he was aiming for but Gary didn't need to know that. "So, what, you go around telling random strangers that? Sounds ehausting."
Gary scoffed. "Nah, only the ones who look like they're here to lose."
Ash grinned. "Oh, got it. You compensate for a lack of actual talent with talking. Makes sense."
Gary's smirk faltered, but he recovered quickly. "Heh. Cute. You got a name, or should I just call you 'Stepping Stone'?"
Ash pretended to think. "Hmm. You could call me that…but I'd rather call you something more fitting too." He grinned. "I'm thinking…Oranberry."
Gary blinked. "What?"
"You know," Ash gestured vaguely, "your hair's got that dark blue tint under the sunlight. Real fruity. Kind of suits you."
Gary stiffened. "Its brown."
Ash squinted and shrugged his shoulders. "Eh. Debatable."
Titan gave an approving grunt.
Gary clenched his fists. "You little—"
Before things could escalate, the doors to the lab slid open.
"Aha! I was wondering when you boys would show up."
Professor Oak stood at the entrance, smiling warmly. "Come in, come in. No need to start fighting before you've even begun your journeys."
Gary exhaled sharply, forcing a smirk back onto his face. "Hmph. Guess you're lucky, Stepping Stone."
Ash smirked back. "Sure thing, Oranberry."
Titan rolled his eyes as the two boys stepped inside.
The lab was massive, lined with bookshelves and high-tech equipment humming quietly in the background. In the center of the room sat a large table with three Poké Balls placed neatly on top.
"As you both know," Oak began, "today marks the start of your journey as official Pokémon trainers." His gaze flickered to Ash. "Although I hear you already have a Pokémon?"
Ash nodded, patting Titan's head. "Yeah. My dad gave me Larvitar before I left."
Gary scoffed. "Tch. Figures. Must be nice getting a head start."
Ash smirked. "Yeah, well, it's not my fault you're slow out of the gate, Oranberry."
Gary's eye twitched. "Quit calling me that."
"Can't. It suits you too much."
Oak coughed into his hand, cutting through the tension. "Right then. Gary, you'll be receiving your first Pokémon today." He gestured to the table. "As per tradition, you may choose one of these three—Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle."
Gary smirked and stepped forward. "Easy choice. I'll take Squirtle."
Ash let out a low whistle. "Wow. Who could have guessed? The guy with the personality of a wet sponge picked the Water-type. Shocking."
Gary shot him a glare but ignored the jab, grabbing the Poké Ball and releasing his new partner. The small, blue turtle stretched its limbs before looking up at Gary with a confident smirk. Its tail wagged slightly before locking eyes with Titan.
The moment was brief, but tension sparked. Squirtle narrowed its eyes at the Rock-type, who returned the stare with a blank, unimpressed look.
Ash chuckled. "Looks like Titan already has a rival."
Gary scoffed. "Not much of one. My Squirtle's got the type advantage."
Titan huffed, crossing his arms.
Professor Oak smiled. "A type advantage is useful, but it's no guarantee of victory. Battles are won through skill, strategy, and teamwork."
He walked over to a nearby desk and picked up two red devices, handing one to each of them.
"This is your Pokédex," Oak explained. "An invaluable tool for trainers. It records data on any Pokémon you see or catch, providing essential information about their abilities, habitat, evolution paths, and what moves they can and cannot learn."
Ash flipped his open as the screen flickered to life. He skimmed over the details, seeing Titan's information displayed.
Gary smirked. "Not that I'll need it. I already know more about Pokémon than most people."
Ash gasped dramatically. "Oh no, everybody! We've got a Pokémon prodigy in the house! Quick, someone get him a trophy before he hurts himself with all that self-importance."
Gary's eyebrow twitched. "You really don't know when to shut up, do you?"
Ash grinned. "Oh, I do. I just don't want to." His dad was really a master when it came to getting under people's skin and getting into fights. One of the reasons he had to train in hand-to-hand combat with his Machamp as Silver half expected that if Ash picked up nothing for him, he would pick up his bad habits so at least give him one good one.
Professor Oak sighed, rubbing his temples. "Before you two head off, there's something important I want to discuss—sponsorships."
Ash nodded, crossing his arms. "Yeah, I know. Dad told me about them, but he wasn't exactly handing me a list of options. Said if I wanted to be strong, I needed to learn how to navigate the world on my own."
Oak chuckled. "That sounds like Silver." He studied Ash carefully. "So, you're looking for some recommendations?"
Ash smirked. "Figured you'd be a good person to ask."
Gary leaned against the table, his smirk practically radiating smugness. "Pfft. Not like it'll matter. You'll need someone crazy to throw money at you when they could be backing someone with actual potential. You know—like me."
Ash rolled his eyes. "Oh, don't be so modest, Blueberry. You're already the best at wasting oxygen."
Gary scowled. "Quit calling me that!"
Professor Oak raised a hand before the argument could spiral. "There are a few different types of sponsorships. Some include Gyms, Companies and other various organizations. Of course you can also pursue the more lucrative but difficult ones with the Pokémon League or the Pokémon Center Association but they come up with their own ups and downs. You can read up on them in the Pokédex."
Ash nodded his head. "Thanks professor."
"It's no problem at all my boy. There isn't much I can recommend but its whatever sponsor suits your needs and goals the best that you need to find and go with. Raising Pokémon is not an easy nor a cheap job and the farther along you go as a Pokémon trainer, the more money and resources you will need."
Gary waved a hand. "Yeah, yeah, can we move on to something actually important? Like my first win?"
Ash smirked. "First? Oh, that's adorable."
Gary scoffed. "One-on-one. My Squirtle versus your Larvitar. That is, unless you're scared."
Ash chuckled. "Oh yeah, terrified. If you listen closely, you can hear my knees knocking together."
Professor Oak let out a tired sigh. "Alright, let's go outside."
"I recommend you both scan your Pokémon before you battle. It'll give you some insight into their strengths and weaknesses." Professor Oak suggested as they stepped onto the battlefield.
Ash flipped open the device and pointed it at Titan. The Pokédex whirred before displaying the information, and he skipped past the normal description it gave of his Pokémon to the more important bits.
Larvitar – Rock/Ground Type
Ability: Guts
Moveset: Bite, Rock Throw, Tackle, Iron Head, Iron Defense, Ancient Power, Dragon Dance
Ash raised an eyebrow. Guts. That meant if Titan ever got hit with a status condition, his strength would shoot through the roof. Useful to keep in mind. His move set was already solid, but Dragon Dance stood out—speed and attack boosts would be very handy. His father probably had his Tyranitar breed with one of his powerful dragons to get such a wide moveset.
Meanwhile, Gary scanned Squirtle.
Squirtle – Water Type
Ability: Torrent
Moveset: Tackle, Tail Whip, Withdraw, Water Gun
Gary's smirk widened. "Looks like I've already got the edge. Water Gun's gonna wreck that little rock of yours."
Ash closed his Pokédex and grinned. "Guess we'll see, won't we?" He knew he was going in with an advantage in terms of movepool but disadvantage in terms of typing.
Ash and Gary took their positions on opposite sides of the battlefield, teh first lot behind Professor Oak's lab serving as the perfect proving ground. A light breeze stirred the ari, but the tension between the two rivals crackled like a thunderstorm waiting to break.
Professor Oak stood to the side, arms crossed, his keen eyes flicking between the two young trainers. "This will be a one-on-one battle. The match ends when one Pokémon is unable to continue. Are you both ready?"
Ash exhaled slowly, feeling teh weight of his first battle since he became a trainer. His eyes turned to Titan who was practically booming with energy. "Let's go Titan."
The rock-type seemed like he was having difficulty from running onto the battlefield. His red eyes locked onto Squirtle who also stepped forward, with an unreadable expression. He crossed his stubby arms, standing firm, unshaken.
Ash took a deep breath. He needed to play this smart as the type disadvantage would make this battle all the more difficult.
"Battle begin!" Professor Oak declared.
"Squirtle, open with Water Gun!" Gary commended instantly.
A jet of water shot from Squirtle's mouth, cutting through the air at rapid speed.
"Dodge!" Ash snapped.
Titan threw himself to the side, narrowly avoiding the stream of water as it hissed against the dirt where he'd stood a second before.
Ash grinned. "Alright, Titan - Bite!"
Titan surged forward, jaws snapping open, but Squirtle was already backpedaling.
"Withdraw!" Gary ordered.
Squirtle tucked into his shell just as Titan's fangs clamped down. The hard shell deflected most of the force, though Titan still gritted his teeth, growling as he released his grip.
"Bad move, Stepping Stone! Squirtle, Tackle now!"
Squirtle shot out of his shell, ramming into Titan's side with surprising force. Titan skidded back, small dust clouds kicking up beneath his feet.
Ash clenched his fists. He needed to shift the momentum of the battle.
"Dragon Dance!" He commanded.
Titan tensed, his body glowing faintly with a red aura as his muscles coiled like a spring. His speed and strength surged, but as the boost took effect, his body wobbled slightly, caught off guard by the sudden influx of power.
Squirtle wasn't waiting.
"Water Gun, now!" Gary barked.
The jet of water slammed into Titan before Ash could react. Titan stumbled, shaking off the droplets with a frustrated growl. Titan clearly hated the feeling of being wet. Ash gritted his teeth. The boost was strong, but Titan wasn't used to it yet. He needed to capitalize on it before his partner lost control.
"Alright, Titan - Rock Throw!"
Titan planted his feet with a stomp, cracking the earth before lifting a large chunk of rock. With his increased speed and strength, his motions were sharp and faster. But he moved too fast and underestimated his own strength. The rock he hurled at Squirtle veered just slighty off-course allowing the water-type to dodge it with ease.
Gary laughed. "That's what happens when you rush! Squirtle, Tackle again!"
Ash's mind raced as he saw Squirtle shooting forward like a bullet. Titan was still adjusting to his increased speed, but if he could make it work…
"Counter with Iron Head!"
Titan's head glowed a metallic silver as he tensed his muscles and with the added boost from the earlier Dragon Dance, lunged at a ferocious speed. The two Pokémon collided head first into each other but due to Titan's heavy weight and tougher body due to being a rock-type Pokémon in addition to the physical boost, he won the exchange. Squirtle yelped in pain as he was sent flying backward and rolling across the dirt before shakily getting back to his feet.
Ash felt Titan's energy waver when he saw him panting with a thick sheen of sweat on his body. His partner was burning through stamina fast. Although Dragon Dance had given him a physical boost, it came at the cost of a considerable amount of stamina so it wasn't sustainable yet. He had maybe one more good move before he lost.
Gary saw this too and didn't hesitate to capitalize on the advantage. "Finish it - Water Gun!"
Ash narrowed his eyes. "Titan, last push! Ancient Power!"
Titan roared, his body surrounded by a silver glow which receded into the ground below. Chunks of rock were pulled out from the earth and hurled towards the incoming Water Gun. The water dispersed upon impact but did nothing to stop the rocks as they barreled through, slamming into Squirtle before he could react.
Squirtle let out a choked sound before collapsing onto the ground, unmoving.
Silence.
"Squirtle is unable to battle! Ash and Titan win!" Professor Oak declared.
Ash exhaled, a slow grin creeping across his face. Titan stood in the center of the field, panting, his body trembling with exhaustion. The boost from Dragon Dance had been powerful - but fleeting.
Ash walked over and crouched beside him, patting his head. "We did it, Titan."
Titan groaned in satisfaction but wobbled on his feet, barely able to stand.
Gary clicked his tongue, recalling Squirtle. "Tch. Lucky break."
Ash straightened. "Nah. It was close, but Titan pulled through. You fought well."
Gary looked like he wanted to argue - but then his lips twitched. "Hmph. Don't think this means you're better than me."
Ash turned to Titan, who was now sitting down, chest rising and falling heavikly. He clenched his fists. Titan had strength and potential. More importantly, the drive. But right now he needs more endurance. A move as powerful as Dragon Dance was useless if Titan couldn't handle its effects for more than a few seconds. Ash smirked, determination burning in his chest.
"Alright, Titan," he murmured. "Looks like we've got some stamina training to do.
Gary let out a loud, exaggerated sigh as he rolled Squirtle's Poké Ball between his fingers. "Hmph. Not bad, Stepping Stone. But a real trainer knows how to make an entrance."
Ash raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. "Oh yeah? And what's that supposed to mean? You gonna start levitating or something?"
Gary smirked and snapped his fingers.
The sound of screeching tires tore through the peaceful air of Pallet Town.
Ash barely had time to process what was happening before a red convertible came flying down the dirt path, kicking up dust and making Professor Oak sigh so hard it sounded like he was losing years off his life. The car skidded to a stop right beside them, the door flying open dramatically.
And then came the cheerleaders.
A whole squad of them.
Ash blinked. Were they…were they posing?
Gary leaned against the car like he was some kind of celebrity about to do a magazine shoot. "Ladies?"
The cheerleaders immediately broke into a rehearsed cheer, pom-poms shaking.
"Gary! Gary! He's our man! If he can't do it—"
"—That just means someone cheated!"
Titan let out a slow, suffering grunt and covered his face with his stubby hands. Ash stared, mouth slightly open. "What. The hell. Am I looking at?"
Gary smirked. "Greatness."
Ash made a sweeping gesture to the literal harem of fangirls clapping on the sidelines. "This…this is what you need to stroke your own ego? A personal cheer squad?"
Gary huffed, adjusting his jacket. "It's not about ego. It's about setting the tone. A champion should be treated with the respect he deserves."
Ash blinked slowly. "So…you paid them?"
One of the cheerleaders waved, looking completely unbothered. "Two thousand Poké a day!"
Ash's brain stalled. "You're paying them to follow you around and tell you you're awesome?"
Gary scoffed. "Pfft. You wouldn't understand, Stepping Stone. Not everyone can just walk into the spotlight. Some of us are the spotlight."
Ash rubbed his temples. "Right. And here I thought we were both starting with nothing." He gestured to the literal parade of flashing smiles and synchronized poses. "But clearly, I was the fool for not hiring a small army of motivational speakers."
Gary grinned. "Glad you're catching on."
Ash turned to Professor Oak, who looked like he was contemplating whether he should claim Gary was adopted. "Is this really happening?"
Oak sighed, rubbing his temples. "Unfortunately, yes."
Titan, who had remained silent throughout the ordeal, let out a deep, long-suffering grunt. He turned his head to Ash with an expression that clearly read: Why are we still here?
Ash exhaled. "You know what, Titan? You're right. Let's go before my brain decides to shut down from secondhand embarrassment."
Gary scoffed. "Don't be jealous, Stepping Stone. Some of us just have style."
Ash gave him a deadpan stare. "Sure, Oranberry. Nothing says style like burning through your wallet so a bunch of strangers can call you pretty."
One of the cheerleaders looked up. "We actually don't compliment his looks, just his skills."
Gary gasped. "Hey!"
Ash grinned. "Oh, so it is a scam."
Titan let out an approving grunt.
Gary glared, crossing his arms. "Whatever. You go ahead and walk to your first gym like some common peasant. Meanwhile, I'll be arriving in style."
He slid into the driver's seat, revving the engine like he was about to hit a victory lap. The cheerleaders piled in, still clapping, still chanting, and Ash could do nothing but watch as the most ridiculous thing he had ever seen sped off in a cloud of dust and misplaced self-confidence.
Ash turned back to Oak, who simply looked tired.
Ash exhaled, shaking his head. "Well. That happened."
Oak nodded solemnly. "It did."
Ash stared at the fading dust cloud, then turned to Titan. "We're gonna destroy him later, right?"
Titan nodded.
"Good talk."
Ash adjusted the straps of his backpack as he left Pallet Town behind, stepping into the dense, untamed woods that lay between him and Viridian City. The sunlight filtering through the canopy cast dappled shadows along the dirt path, the air thick with the scent of earth and fresh foliage. Titan walked beside him, his small yet sturdy frame moving with a quiet confidence as his crimson eyes scanned their surroundings, Titan grunted and continued walking alongside him despite being tired.
The rock-type after being treated at Professor Oak's lab was quite insistent on walking alongside Ash despite Professor Oak advising against it. Titan was more than a bit disappointed with his performance in battle and wanted to make up for his weakness.
Ash wanted to say something to his partner but felt like offering to have him rest in his Pokeball would probably draw anger from his partner. As they moved deeper into the forest, Ash kept an eye on the wild Pokémon around him. Pidgey fluttered between the trees, their soft coos filling the air, while the occasional Spearow darted past with sharper, more aggressive cries. Below them, Caterpie wriggled along with the branches, and a few Weedle scuttled along the forest floor, their sharp stingers twitching warily.
Ash considered catching something. A Pidgey wouldn't be a bad choice - having a flying type would help a lot when traveling, and Pidgeot was a powerhouse. Not to mention the advantage in saving traveling time to have more time for training and battling trainers.
This line of thought brought back what just happened a few hours ago with Gary and his red convertible filled with beautiful cheerleaders whom Ash may have looked at longer than necessary. Although he would not be caught dead hiring a group of women to be his cheerleaders, he had to admit, having a quick transport system to get through routes and into major cities was a big time save.
Unfortunately, his bank account would not appreciate any such large spendings.
Before he could continue that line of thought, something along the corner of his vision caught his eye. Through the line of trees on the dirt path of route 1, there was a small lake to his right. Ash couldn't help but turn towards it, wanting to see if there was enough space to set up camp and if luck was on his side, catch a good water-type.
As he stepped past the trees with Titan simply walking past the brushes and paying no mind to the twigs and thorns thanks to his tough skin, Ash something particularly interesting. Standing by edge of the shimmering lake was a Slowpoke.
At first glance, it didn;t seem unusual - Slowpoke were common enough around lakes and rivers - but something about this one was…different.
Instead of staring blankly into space or fishing with its tail for food, this Slowpoke was moving. Not just shifting lazily, but actually roaming around, its round eyes scanning the area with genuine curiosity. It nudged at a rock, then stepped back and stared at it as if waiting for the rock to do something. When nothing happened, it wandered over to the lake's edge and stared at the water, its stubby tail twitching as it saw its own wavy reflection.
Ash watched, intrigued. Slowpoke were known for being sluggish and detached making them unpopular amongst trainers as almost no one could win a battle with one. Seeing one that was actively exploring was weird but not surprising since a species of Pokémon didn't always follow the same common behavior.
The Slowpoke suddenly turned and spotted Ash and Titan.
They stared at each other.
Then, to Ash;s surprise, the Slowpoke walked up to him…rather slowly.
Titan tensed slightly, watching as the pink Pokémon approached at its own slow but determined pace. It just stopped a foot away and blinked up at Ash.
"...Hey?" Ash greeted, unsure what else to say.
Slowpoke titled its head. Ash crouched down. "You're a weird one, huh?"
It's not like I have room to talk.
Ash added in his mind before taking out a Poké Ball. Despite the initial difficulty of raising Slowpoke, its evolved forms in either Slowbro or the much rarer Slowking were extremely powerful Pokémon given their Psychic powers and ability to learn a wide variety of moves. Ash pondered for a few seconds but while said pondering, the curious Slowpoke seemed fascinated with the shiny ball and decided it satiate the burning curiosity by booping it with its nose.
The ball activated instantly. A flash of red light engulfed Slowpoke, and in the next second, the Poké Ball snapped shut.
Ash froze.
Titan blinked.
They both stared at the Poké Ball now sitting in Ash's hand. It gave a single shake.
Then - ding.
Silence.
Ash slowly turned to Titan. "Did…did I just catch a Slowpoke by accident?"
Titan let out a slow, drawn-out huff.
Ash exhaled. "Well. That just happened."
He took out his Pokédex to scan Slowpoke's Poké Ball and learn all about the newest addition to his team.
[Slowpoke
Type: Water/Psychic
Gender: Female
Height: 3'11" (1.2 m)
Weight: 79.4 lbs (36.0 kg)
Ability: Own Tempo
Description: Slowpoke is so absentminded that it often forgets what it was doing, sometimes standing motionless for hours without a care in the world. Its tail drips a sweet, sap-like fluid that attracts other Pokémon, and some coastal communities even use dried Slowpoke tails as a delicacy.
Moveset: Tackle, Growl, Yawn, Water Gun, Confusion
Evolution:
When a Shellder bites its tail, Slowpoke undergoes a transformation, evolving into Slowbro as the symbiotic relationship strengthens its body and reflexes.
If a Shellder clamps onto its head instead, the bond stimulates Slowpoke's brain, drastically increasing its intelligence and leading to its evolution into Slowking. However, for the evolution to occur, Slowpoke must have a sufficient amount of psychic power and mental fortitude. You may visit a Pokémon Center to test Slowpoke's mental capabilities to determine if it can evolve into a Slowking.]
Ash raised an eyebrow. Own Tempo meant it couldn't be confused, which was useful and given that it already knew a Psychic-type move in Confusion, Slowpoke definitely had the potential.
He grinned. "Alright, I guess I've got my second Pokémon."
Titan stared at him, then at the Poké Ball, then at Ash again.
"…What?" Ash asked.
Titan shook his head and trudged toward the lake, clearly done with whatever just happened. Chuckling, Ash followed and started setting up camp. If he was going to spend the night here, he might as well make the most of it. He gathered firewood, checked his supplies, and released Slowpoke to see if it would actually do anything.
It did not.
Slowpoke sat beside Titan, staring at the lake. Occasionally, it would poke a rock.
Ash sighed. "…Yeah, this is gonna be interesting. Now, would you like a name?"
"..."
"I'll take that as a yes. How about…"
A Name Worth Keeping
"…Blaze?"
Silence.
Ash crossed his arms. "No reaction. Alright, how about Ember?"
Slowpoke—no, his newly caught Pokémon—blinked lazily.
"…That's a no, huh?"
Titan, who had been sitting next to him, let out an exaggerated sigh and rubbed his face with his tiny claws.
Ash grinned. "Oh, don't give me that look. Naming is important. It's gotta mean something. Admittedly giving a fire based nickname to a water type is probably not a very smart idea."
Titan rolled his eyes.
"Fine. Let's try something different," Ash mused, tapping his chin. "Wave?"
Nothing.
"Tide?"
Nothing.
"Cloud?"
Slowpoke yawned.
Ash groaned. "You are impossible."
Titan chuffed in clear amusement.
He leaned back on his elbows, staring at the sky as he thought. "Alright, I'm gonna get this, just you wait. What about Sage? Drift? Boulder?"
Titan shot him an unimpressed glare at that last one.
"Okay, okay, not Boulder," Ash conceded. "Hmm… Solstice?"
Slowpoke's head tilted ever so slightly.
Ash sat up immediately. "Wait—was that a reaction?"
Slowpoke continued staring, completely unreadable.
Ash squinted. "…It was, wasn't it?"
Silence.
"…I don't know if that means yes or if you just had a thought for the first time in your life."
More silence.
Titan let out a tired huff.
Ash grinned. "Alright, Solstice it is."
Solstice blinked once, then, with painstaking slowness, yawned.
Titan smacked his face again.
Ash laughed. "Oh, you're gonna be fun, aren't you?"
With that settled, he stood and stretched. "Alright, now that we've got a name sorted, it's time to train."
Ash ruffled through his bag and took out a very small silverish white box with a screen on it and tapped on it before a few items materialized into existence in front of him. These items included a rather thick vest, arm bands and leg bands, all filled with weights inside it.
After Ash put on everything, he got up and surveyed his two Pokémon. Titan, standing with his usual determined stance, was already prepared for whatever training Ash threw at him. Solstice, in contrast, sat on her haunches, staring blankly at a rock.
Ash sighed. This was going to be…interesting.
"Okay," he began, "Titan, we're gonna focus on Dragan Dance for you. You're strong, no doubt about it, but you're not used to the boost in power. So for now, I want you to use Dragon Dance to run around the clearing so that you can get used to the boost and build up your endurance."
Titan huffed in agreement and closed his eyes. A faint red aura surrounded him, flickering like flames before sinking into his body. His muscles tensed, his stance shifted - and then he sprinted forward. Titan nearly tripped on his own feet but managed to catch himself.
"Go slower and then build up your speed. Try learning how to conserve your energy. You don't always need to run at full speed. Sometimes going slower but with more control can help." Ash tried to advise, recalling the many lessons his father had taught him.
Titan grunted and continued his exercise, although now at less than half the speed compared to before.
Satisfied for the moment, Ash turned to Solstice, who was still staring at the rock. "...Right. Now, for you." Solstice blinked. Ash crouched beside her. "Okay, let's see what you can do. Use Confusion on that rock." Solstice sat motionless. Ash frowned. "Uh, Solstice? Confusion."
Seconds passed and just before Ash was about to repeat himself, the rock he had pointed to lifted weakly into the air before plopping back down.
Ash blinked. "...Huh."
Titan let out a derisive snort as he continued his training, the exhaustion already back on his face.
"Try using a Water Gun on Titan over there." Ash commanded, causing Titan to look at him with a blank stare but tensed as his eyes focused on Solstice.
Ash began counting in his head, wondering just how long it took for Solstice to process his commands. Exactly when he reached five, Solstice released a weak Water Gun attack at Titan and found it almost laughably easy to dodge especially when compared to Squirtle's intense and fast attacks from before.
"Yeeeah, that's not gonna work in a real battle." He thought back to their earlier encounter - Solstice had walked up to him, clearly aware of her surroundings. She wasn't completely detached like most Slowpoke but like the Pokédex had stated, Slowpoke has a five second delay when it comes to feeling pain. Maybe that also meant a five second delay in processing all kinds of information.
Ash pulled up the Pokédex again and began scrolling through it although it was a difficult task given that he was wearing the weights on his arms. Despite the strain, he shifted through the various pieces of information provided and couldn't help but marvel at the device. Professor Oak really out did himself inventing this piece of technology. It had all the information regarding each and every known species of Pokémon, including behavior habits, potential moves they could learn, evolution paths, required diets, even proper ways to raise them.
He quickly skimmed through it and managed to pick out key points he needed to know right now. For one, this five second delay of processing information would eventually lessen as Solstice's psychic powers improve with age and practice and it was a main indication of her ability to evolve into Slowking.
Looking back at the two, he saw Titan panting on the ground while Solstice went back to staring at another particularly interesting piece of rock.
"Solstice keep practicing on moving those rocks. The longer you can hold them up, the better. Titan, once you rest up, get back to using Dragon Dance." Ash commanded while he also fell into his own physical training which basically involved a lot of body weight exercises and basic movements that could be used during a hand to hand fight with another person.
The afternoon sun beat down on the clearing, but Ash barely noticed the heat. His muscles burned, his breath came in harsh gasps, but he didn't slow down. Every push-up, every squat, every swing of his weighted arms was another step forward, another layer of strength being built. Sweat dripped from his brow, his shirt clung to his skin, but he kept going. Stopping was never an option.
Across the clearing, Titan watched him with sharp, unblinking eyes. The Larvitar was panting heavily, his small frame rising and falling with exertion after sprinting laps around the clearing under the influence of Dragon Dance. Despite the clear fatigue in his limbs, he forced himself to remain upright, as if waiting for Ash to call for the next round of training.
But instead, Titan just stood there, watching.
Watching as Ash, despite his own exhaustion, dropped to the ground for another set of push-ups, his movements rigid with determination. Watching as Ash stood and rolled his shoulders before transitioning into a new routine, his body moving through the motions of hand-to-hand combat drills, each strike sharper than the last. Watching as Ash pushed past the point of fatigue like it was nothing but a minor inconvenience.
Titan's red eyes burned with something unfamiliar yet deeply understood.
This human—his trainer—was relentless.
It was one thing to give commands, to expect a Pokémon to fight and grow stronger. But Ash wasn't just standing on the sidelines. He wasn't just ordering Titan and Solstice to train while he observed. He was in the thick of it himself, pushing his own limits just as hard, if not harder, than he expected his team to push theirs.
Titan clenched his tiny claws into fists, his breath steadying as the fire in his chest grew stronger. He couldn't afford to fall behind.
With a sharp grunt, Titan pushed himself back into motion, darting into a sprint once again, his steps quicker, sharper, as Dragon Dance flared through his body. He wouldn't let himself be outdone. Not by Ash.
Ash smirked as he caught the movement from the corner of his eye. "That's more like it," he murmured under his breath before shifting his attention. "Solstice, another round. Focus on lifting that rock and holding it."
Solstice blinked slowly at him before turning her gaze to the boulder she had been working with. There was a noticeable pause before the glow of Confusion shimmered around the stone, lifting it just a few inches off the ground before it wobbled and dropped again.
Ash crossed his arms, watching her carefully. "Your timing's getting better," he noted. "Keep at it. The longer you can hold that, the stronger your control will be."
Solstice made a soft noise—one that could have been acknowledgment or just a slow exhale of air. It was hard to tell.
Ash turned his focus back to Titan, watching the small rock-type push himself further, his form still a little rough but improving with every lap. "Alright, Titan—switch it up. Start weaving between those trees! I want you working on control while keeping up that speed!"
Titan didn't hesitate, adjusting his path and bolting toward the treeline. He dodged left, then right, maneuvering his small frame through the narrow gaps between trunks. It wasn't flawless—he nearly clipped his shoulder on one of the thicker trees—but Ash could see the improvement already.
"Good," Ash called. "Now use Iron Head and strike the next boulder you see! Put that speed to use!"
Titan let out a growl of determination as his body surged forward. His head gleamed silver before he launched himself toward a large rock at the edge of the clearing. The impact sent cracks spiderwebbing across the stone, a sharp echo ringing out through the quiet forest. Titan stumbled slightly on the landing, his breath ragged, but his expression was one of fierce satisfaction.
Ash nodded approvingly. "Better. But next time, stabilize your stance when you land. You'll leave yourself open if you lose your footing like that."
Titan huffed, nodding slightly before shaking out his limbs, already preparing for the next round.
Ash exhaled, rolling his own shoulders as he moved into another set of exercises. Every motion was precise, controlled, the product of years of training under Silver's harsh yet effective tutelage. His father had drilled discipline into him from a young age, teaching him that strength wasn't just about raw power—it was about control, endurance, the ability to keep going even when every muscle in your body begged for rest.
And Ash was going to need that endurance.
Because he wasn't just aiming to beat Gym Leaders. He wasn't aiming to challenge the Elite Four. He wasn't even aiming for the title of Champion.
No.
Ash Ketchum was going to challenge legends.
He had seen Moltres with his own eyes, had felt the raw, untamed power radiating from the firebird's body. It had looked at him as if he was nothing. As if he didn't even matter.
And that… that had burned something into Ash's very core.
He wasn't going to be insignificant. He wasn't going to be just another trainer trying to scrape his way to the top. He was going to reach the level of the gods that ruled this world. And he was going to do it through sheer, relentless effort.
Ash clenched his fists, pushing himself through the final set of his drills before calling an end to the session.
"That's it," he said, his voice still firm despite his exhaustion. "We're done for today. Cool down and rest."
Titan collapsed onto the ground, his chest heaving as sweat coated his green skin. Solstice let out a deep, slow yawn before rolling onto her side, clearly content to rest where she lay.
Ash wiped his forehead with the back of his arm before settling down as well, leaning against a tree as he took in the sight of his team.
They were getting stronger. It was a slow process and not something that could be rushed. They had to take it one step at a time.
Dinner was a quiet affair, the crackling fire providing a steady backdrop as Ash and his Pokémon ate. Titan devoured his food with the same intensity he approached training, while Solstice took her time, lazily chewing between long pauses.
Afterward, Ash leaned back, stretching out his legs as he gazed up at the night sky. The stars were bright, scattered across the darkness like endless possibilities.
His mind drifted.
Ten thousand dollars.
That was all he had to his name.
He knew it wasn't enough. Not for the journey he had planned.
The memory of how he had earned that money surfaced unbidden. Long days spent running errands for the townspeople of Knot Island, fixing fences, carrying supplies, even doing odd cleaning jobs when work was scarce.
Silver had made it clear from the start—there would be no handouts. If Ash wanted to go on this journey, he had to fund it himself. And Delia, as much as it had pained her, had abided by that decision.
Ash could still remember the exhaustion, the way his arms had ached after hauling crates at the docks for hours, the way his legs had burned after running deliveries across town from sunrise to sunset.
And yet, he had never once considered quitting.
Because every dollar earned had been another step closer to freedom. Another step closer to proving himself.
Now, though… now he was faced with the reality of how quickly that money would disappear. Travel expenses, food, medical supplies, equipment—Pokémon training wasn't cheap.
He needed a plan.
Sponsorships were an option, but he wasn't sure yet which one he should take. He would look into it when he reached Viridian City.
Battles could earn him some money, but it wouldn't be consistent and he would also risk losing money if he lost. Not to mention Titan and Solstice would be limited in their own Stamina and how many battles they would partake in.
He would have to find more work along the way, pick up odd jobs in different towns, make sure he didn't fall into a position where he couldn't afford supplies when he needed them most.
Ash exhaled slowly, his gaze still locked onto the stars.
The road ahead was going to be difficult. He had known that from the start.
But nothing worth achieving ever came easy.
Titan let out a low rumble beside him, shifting slightly to rest against Ash's leg. Solstice, still half-awake, blinked sluggishly before letting out a soft sigh and settling in for the night.
Ash smiled faintly. His mind drifted to the battle he had with Gary. He ran through the battle in his head again and again and noticed several flaws. He took out a book and a pen before he began writing notes down.
For one, the time during which he spoke and gave his commands during battle and with which his Pokémon reacted and carried out said commands took a certain amount of time and in certain situations, that buffer time could result in his Pokémon taking more damage then they were supposed to. Perhaps he should try and have his Pokémon instinctively dodge enemy attacks, intercept those attacks with their own or in Titan's case, even use Iron Defense instinctively to take significantly less damage.
Maybe he should have Titan try to incorporate using Dragon Dance from the start of a fight without him needing to call anything out. Working with a boost like that right off the bat could give them a significant advantage. Ash decided to put that idea for later, at least until Titan got use to the boost and didn't get exhausted in a short amount of time.
Another small point Ash realised was the way in which Titan had used Ancient Power. Searching through his Pokédex, Ash realized that Ancient Power was a move that could be used in two different ways. One was to condense an orb of energy and launch it towards the opponent while another was to suffuse the earth below with that energy and pull out rocks. The latter was what Titan used and perhaps he should look into how well Titan could pull out said chunks of rock with practice? Maybe if he got good enough, he could use it as an impenetrable defense?
A thought for another time.
They would find a way.
They would get stronger.
And one day, when he stood before the legends of this world, he would make them acknowledge him.
But for now, he would take things one step at a time. He needed to forge his path and find a way to achieve the impossible. He didn't have a guide or a set plan on how to get what he wanted so he would have to find this path on his own.
With that final thought, Ash closed his eyes, letting the quiet of the night settle around him.
And there is chapter 1 finished. Please review and let me know how you guys and gals like the story so far.