The bustling streets of Vermillion City were alive with the energy of both people and Pokémon going about their daily lives. The enthusiastic girl, with her heart pounding with anticipation, navigated the familiar paths with a sense of urgency.
‘Hey there, I'm Elysia, a ten years old soon-to-be trainer living in Vermillion City with my family! My parents don’t need much introduction: my dad, Ash “World Monarch” Ketchum, as well as my mom, “Queen of Performers” Serena, who used to be the Kalos Queen and now she's rocking her own performer's academy here in Kanto. Oh, and let's not forget my adorable little brother, Soren, who's three years old.
With my azure eyes, honey-colored hair with a slightly darker skin tone, everyone keeps saying I'm the spitting image of my mom when she was my age. But Big Brother Lei insists I'm missing her elegance and refinement. I proved him right when I spiced up his soup with a sneaky Tomato Berry.’
The backpack slung over her shoulders contained the precious egg, a gift that held the promise of her first Pokémon companion.
‘This egg in my backpack? It's a super cool gift from my Auntie Cynthia, the legendary Sinnoh Champion. After bugging her endlessly with my request, she finally gave in and hooked me up with a fantastic future partner for my journey. Of course, Lei being Lei couldn't resist mocking me, claiming it's actually an Impidimp that would eventually turn into a clone of me, and that’s how I was born in the first place. I had to do the rational thing so I caused a Bewear to crash one of his numerous Alolan parties. Dad grounded me for three months, but it was worth it!”’
Elysia's excitement radiated from her as she darted through the lively streets. A Meowth playfully chased its tail near a street corner, and a group of Pidgey took flight, scattering in the wake of her sprint. The city's energy seemed to mirror her own as she neared the former professor's home.
‘Guess what? Today's the big day—it's my birthday! The 10th one to be precise, and you know what that means for us living in Kanto: Goodbye school, hello journey! We're throwing a massive party at home with family friends and some of my classmates. But before the festivities kick off, I'm making a quick stop to visit "Gramps": Professor Oak. Let my adventure’s eve begin!’
As she hurried through the city, Elysia weaved through the crowds, her eyes focused on the destination: Professor Oak's retirement residence. The vibrant tapestry of life in Vermillion City unfolded around her — the chatter of traders in the marketplace, the laughter of children playing with their Pokémon companions, and the distant cries of migrant Wingull soaring above.
Upon reaching Professor Oak's doorstep, she couldn't contain her enthusiasm. Breathless, she rang the doorbell, a jingling melody that resonated with the excitement coursing through her veins. The door opened, revealing the professor with a welcoming smile.
"Elysia, my girl! It's great to see you. What brings you here today?" he greeted, his eyes twinkling with grandfatherly warmth. “You couldn’t wait for your party to meet me, I see”.
"Hi, Grandpa Oak!" Elysia exclaimed, her breaths still quick from the sprint. She carefully unzipped her backpack, revealing the egg nestled within. However, as she tried to show it, the egg wiggled in response, causing a brief moment of suspense.
Both Elysia and Professor Oak watched in amazement as the egg tumbled slightly, a clear sign that it was almost ready. Elysia's face lit up with joy.
"It's about to hatch, Grandpa Oak! I can't wait!"
Professor Oak marveled at the sight. "Ah, an extraordinary moment indeed. Let's get it inside quickly. You must be tired from running all the way up here." The professor ushered her inside his familiar and warm living room.
Professor Oak's steps were steady but assisted by a cane, a testament to the passage of time and the countless journeys he had undertaken in the realm of Pokémon research. Elysia, despite having been born shortly after his retirement, still regarded him with the utmost respect and affection typical of a granddaughter.
Professor Oak's residence in Vermillion City, a haven of wisdom and memories, exuded a cozy warmth accentuated by the soft glow of the sunlight illuminating shelves filled with books and photographs. Every corner of the room told a story, a testament to the professor's long and fulfilling journey in the world of Pokémon research.
Among the numerous volumes that lined the shelves, were framed pictures capturing moments frozen in time. Young talents who had embarked on their own journeys, friends who had shaped the professor's life, and the vibrant tapestry of the Pokémon world adorned the walls.
Elysia's eyes darted across the pictures, a silent acknowledgment of the vast history encompassed within the walls of this cozy abode. Professor Oak led her to a comfortable spot, and together they placed the egg in a specially prepared nest, awaiting the moment when it would stir with the promise of a new beginning.
As they waited, anticipation hung in the air, only to be met with a gentle sigh from Elysia as the egg remained still. Her disappointment, however, was accompanied by the subtle pout typical of an impatience that characterized every aspiring Pokémon Trainer.
Professor Oak couldn't help but chuckle, the sound echoing the sentimentality of countless encounters with eager young trainers.
"Patience, Elysia. These things take time. You'll have your own Pokémon companion soon enough. At least you won’t wake up late and miss the selection day like your father did."
Professor Oak's mention of her father's early misadventures brought a spark of nostalgia and joy to Elysia's eyes. The tale of Ash Ketchum's journey, beginning with a certain Pikachu causing chaos and disrupting the professor's usual routine, was a cherished narrative in the Ketchum family.
“Could you tell me the story once again, gramps?” Elysia pleaded.
As the professor shared the amusing details for the umpteenth time, Elysia's laughter echoed through the room, a familiar melody that had graced those walls many times before. The story, a blend of humor and fondness, had become a beloved tradition in her family.
Professor Oak's voice carried a deep sense of nostalgia as he spoke, his words becoming a bridge between the past and the present. He closed his eyes, immersing himself in the memories of bygone days when the Ketchum and Oak legacies intertwined. Elysia, attentive to his every word, could feel the weight of history and the profound connection that bound generations of Pokémon Trainers.
With a gentle smile, Professor Oak reached for a framed picture on the wall, a frozen moment capturing the younger versions of Ash and Gary in their teenage years. The image spoke of camaraderie, rivalry, and the indomitable spirit of their youth.
As he held the photograph, the professor's words resonated with warmth. "Your journey, my dear girl, is about to become the most cherished experience of your life," he expressed, his gaze fixed on the captured memories. "Just as it was for your father, and many other young trainers who have come and gone."
Elysia listened, absorbing the wisdom and sentiment in his voice. The acknowledgment of the fleeting nature of time and the enduring legacy left by those who had walked the path before her filled the room with a bittersweet melody of past and present. Professor Oak's grandson, Gary, was a part of that legacy, and in that moment, Elysia felt the beauty of nostalgia transcending sorrow.
Elysia cradled the egg in her hands, her eyes sparkling with anticipation as another subtle shake emanated from within. The moment was charged with an electric excitement that resonated between the young trainer and the soon-to-be-hatched Pokémon.
"It's almost here! I know it!" Elysia exclaimed, her voice a vibrant mix of eagerness and joy. The prospect of witnessing the birth of her first Pokémon companion filled her with an indescribable thrill.
Professor Oak, ever the experienced guide, suggested that a little movement might aid the hatching process. Elysia eagerly agreed, expressing her gratitude before rushing out of Professor Oak's residence. The bustling streets of Vermillion City welcomed her as she set out on a walk, eager to help the Pokémon within the egg take its first steps into the world.
As Elysia left, Professor Oak watched her with a fond smile.
"Take your time, my dear girl. The journey is as much about the steps you take as it is about the destination," he murmured to himself, his words carrying a wisdom earned through decades of guiding young trainers on the threshold of adventure.
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The coastal breeze whispered through the tall grass as Ash descended on the shores of Cinnabar Island with Pikachu perched on his shoulder. The vibrant hues of the early sun painted the landscape in light tones as the duo gazed upon the tranquil field, a place that had witnessed both heartache and triumph.
With a grateful pat on Dragonair's side, Ash expressed his appreciation before recalling the majestic Pokémon. As he walked through the lush, green expanse, memories flooded back – memories of battles fought, victories celebrated, and the echoes of a past marked by loss and grief.
This annual pilgrimage to the serene field had become a tradition for Ash and his family, a moment of reflection and remembrance. However, and though it was still months before the next pilgrimage, this visit held a special significance. Today, Ash carried news that would bring joy to the spirits lingering in the winds. The news of the next generation of the Ketchum lineage about to embark on her own Pokémon journey.
Traveling through the field felt almost meditative, a communion with the past that marked and shaped him into the person he was today. As Ash and Pikachu approached the spot where cherished friends and Pokémon were memorialized, a bittersweet smile played on his lips. The pain of loss had mellowed into a gentle ache, a testament to the healing power of time and the love that continued to endure.
They reached their destination before a memorial and Pikachu, sensing the solemnity of the moment, nuzzled against Ash's cheek. They stood there, the sea breeze carrying whispers of shared victories, untold stories, and the everlasting bond that connected the living with those who had become part of the eternal tapestry of memory.
The memorial stood as a testament to the valor and sacrifice of those who had faced the relentless onslaught of Team Rocket’s last stand. Crafted from weathered stone, it bore the weight of engraved names that etched the memories of fallen friends and Pokémon into permanence. The names formed a solemn mosaic, each one a story of courage, friendship, and untimely departure.
Pictures adorned the memorial, capturing vibrant moments frozen in time. Laughter, camaraderie, and battles fought side by side were immortalized in each frame. At the heart of the memorial, a prominent picture took center stage – a snapshot of unity and strength. In this central image, Ash, Gary, Iris, Goh and the rest of the gang who participated in such a historic event, stood shoulder to shoulder, flanked by their Pokémon partners. The determined expressions on their faces reflected a shared commitment to protect the world from Team Rocket's malevolence.
"Hello, guys. It's me again," Ash began, his voice filled with a solemnity that matched the weight of the memories around him. He took a moment to absorb the tranquil ambiance of the memorial, the sun casting a warm glow over the engraved names and images.
"Such a lovely day, don't you think?" he mused, acknowledging the beauty of the world that continued to turn, even in the wake of past darkness.
As if sensing the unspoken connection between the living and the departed, Pikachu remained perched on Ash's shoulder, an ever-loyal companion sharing in the silent tribute.
"Elysia is now ten years old. Can you believe it? Cause I still can’t" Ash's tone shifted to one of pride and fondness. "She will soon embark on her own journey, just the way we did, and she will need your support, guys."
Ash's words carried a tender weight, laden with the bittersweet nostalgia of a memory that seemed to transcend the passage of time.
"I think it was just recently when Serena and I brought Elysia here when she was one year old," Ash reminisced, a delicate smile playing on his lips. The sun's rays cast a warm glow, emphasizing the emotions etched on his face. "Remember how she happily reached her little arms in order to feel your presence…?"
Tears welled in his eyes, the rawness of the memory touching a chord deep within. The spirits of the past seemed to resonate with the shared joy of that moment. Pikachu, too, listened attentively, as if understanding the profound significance of the memory.
"As if you tried to hug her too. It was magical," he added, his voice carrying a mixture of joy and sorrow. The air held a gentle stillness, as if the spirits themselves were touched by the continuation of life, love, and the unbroken bond between a family and the cherished memories of those who came before.
Ash then took the bouquet he brought from home and carefully placed them in front of the picture that stood as a timeless tribute to the fallen. Ash's quiet gesture carried a depth of emotion, a silent but significant gift to the departed souls who had once fought by his side.
"I miss you, guys," Ash spoke, his words carrying both longing and gratitude. The wind, as if responding to his sentiments, whispered through the field, as if subtly acknowledging the gesture. "How I wish you could personally tell Elysia words of encouragement that will accompany her during her journey and throughout her entire life."
As the words lingered in the air, Pikachu, ever the steadfast companion, gazed at the memorial with a solemn understanding, his ears perked as if catching echoes of gratitude and encouragement long gone. The wind, like a gentle embrace from the past, whispered its silent farewells as Ash turned away from the memorial. The faces of Gary and Iris, frozen in time, seemed to smile back at him from the photograph.
The author's tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
"See you soon, little brother. Little sister," Ash whispered, his words carrying both affection and a promise.
As he walked away, the wind played with the white flowers, a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the enduring beauty of memories. With each step, Ash carried the weight of both loss and hope, a bittersweet blend that defined his journey.
Stopping for a moment to reflect, Ash looked back at the memorial, his smile reflecting a mixture of gratitude and determination. The gentle breeze seemed to carry the collective wishes of his departed friends, encouraging him to move forward.
"Let's go, Pikachu! We must not miss the party!" Ash declared, calling Dragonite. With a renewed spirit, he mounted his loyal partner, and together, they soared into the sky. The memorial, surrounded by the tranquility of the field, stood, a testament to the resilience of bonds that endure, even in the face of time's unrelenting march.
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The sun bathed the landscape in warm hues as Elysia caught her breath atop the hill. She surveyed the scenic route she had chosen for her journey back home—a path more challenging, yet chosen with the hope that it would expedite the hatching of the egg nestled in her backpack.
With determination in her eyes, Elysia urged the egg to reveal its secrets.
"You know... this would be... the perfect time to hatch," she declared, trying to catch her breath each time with a mix of excitement and impatience in her voice. She cast a hopeful glance at her backpack, anticipating any sign that the little Pokémon inside was ready to make its debut.
However, the egg remained still, giving away no hints of the imminent arrival. Elysia sighed, her expectations tempered by the realization that her efforts were still not enough. Undeterred, she adjusted her backpack and continued her journey, the distant promise of home and celebration urging her forward.
She continued traversing the forest, the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves creating a playful dance of shadows on the path. Unfazed by the silence of the egg in her backpack, she continued to engage in a one-sided conversation, a habit she had maintained since Cynthia entrusted her with the precious gift.
"If you really wanted, you would hatch before me, you know?" Elysia spoke to the egg with a gentle smile. "I mean, today is my birthday, and you finally hatching would be the best gift ever!"
She chuckled at her own whimsical notion, and leaves began to fall as if the forest seemed to listen to her words.
As Elysia continued, she spotted a pair of Pidgeottos nesting high in the branches, their watchful eyes focused on their own eggs.
"I know dad and Professor Oak told me to be patient and enjoy the experience, but you have taken far longer than regular eggs. I searched and found that some of the stronger Pokémon take more time to hatch, and Cynthia warned me that raising you would be a challenge," she mused aloud. "But I even sang for you. Could you show more appreciation then?"
She let out a playful sigh, realizing the absurdity of her request. Suddenly, a nearby bush began to shake violently, as if something was in a hurry to escape. Intrigued, Elysia took a few steps back, her eyes fixed on the source of the disturbance.
After a moment of suspense, a hurried female Nidoran emerged from the bush. The rapid pace of its escape suggested an urgent need to put as much distance as possible between itself and whatever had disturbed it.
Slightly shaken by the unexpected turn of events, Elysia cautiously approached the bush to investigate. Slowly peeking around the foliage, her curiosity intensified. Without warning, more Pokémon emerged, each in a state of apparent panic, desperately trying to flee from an unseen threat.
“Wait! What’s going on?” she asked, embracing her precious future partner.
Then, a furious Rhydon emerged from the woods, wreaking havoc and demolishing trees in its path. The sight of such a powerful Pokémon in an unusual habitat left Elysia bewildered, questioning what could have caused this disruption.
However, her thoughts were abruptly interrupted as the enraged Rhydon locked eyes with her. Panic surged through Elysia as she realized the danger she was in. Drawing inspiration from her father's experiences, she attempted to calm the frenzied Pokémon with her voice.
"E-Easy now, big guy. I mean no harm. Let's just take a breath, okay?" she nervously murmured, hoping to soothe the agitated Rhydon. Unfortunately, her attempt at reassurance was met with a menacing roar, signaling that the ground Pokémon was not in the mood for pacification.
With the enraged Pokémon hot on her heels, Elysia sprinted as fast as her legs could carry her, the thunderous footsteps of the pursuing Rhydon echoing through the forest.
She skillfully navigated obstacles, displaying remarkable agility that had been honed by her gymnastic lessons, courtesy of her mother. Despite Rhydon typically being a slower Pokémon, its relentless pursuit was proving to be dangerously close.
Faced with limited options and the looming threat of the enraged Rhydon, Elysia considered her next move. Climbing trees was not her strongest suit, and the sheer strength of the pursuing Pokémon made it clear that attempting to divert its attention with obstacles wouldn't be effective.
Then, a sudden realization struck her — the hill she had earlier struggled to climb lay ahead. With a burst of determination, Elysia made a quick decision to double back and attempt to ascend the hill once more. She hoped that the Rhydon would be deterred by the incline, providing her with a crucial advantage in escaping its relentless pursuit.
However, as soon as she got closer to the hill, she saw that an injured Jigglypuff, its leg clearly hindering its ability to move, lay in the path ahead. Elysia, sensing the urgency to save the defenseless Pokémon, shifted her focus from the hill to the Jigglypuff. With reassuring words, she approached and gently picked up the wounded Pokémon, intending to move it to safety.
"There, there. Everything will be alright," she said as the injured Pokémon growled in confusion and pain.
As Elysia attempted to resume her escape, she realized that the enraged Rhydon had now positioned itself between her and the hill, blocking the only viable route. The urgency of the situation heightened, and Elysia pondered her next move, with the injured Jigglypuff still cradled in her arms.
Elysia tried to communicate with the Pokémon, asking Rhydon why it was so angry. The ground type Pokémon, however, only roared once again and took a battle position. Elysia, now realizing that she was without any more options, took a look at the egg on her backpack.
"If you are planning to hatch, this would be the perfect opportunity," she said.
Rhydon charged Elysia. She still hoped for a miracle, but her egg didn't show any reaction. As the enraged one got dangerously close, she closed her eyes, expecting whatever outcome.
"Pikachu, Iron Tail!" the voice of Ash emerged from the sky, echoing through the forest.
Pikachu's swift Iron Tail attack struck Rhydon, momentarily halting its aggressive charge. The electric Pokémon then leaped back to stand protectively beside Elysia. The sudden intervention by Pikachu gave Elysia a moment to catch her breath and process the unexpected turn of events.
Ash descended from above on his Dragonite, surveying the scene with concern. Elysia, surprised and relieved, looked up at her father, a mix of gratitude and awe on her face.
"Are you okay, Pikacharm?" Ash asked, genuine worry in his voice.
"Yeah, I... I think so," Elysia replied, still processing the adrenaline rush. "But dad, how did you know I was in trouble?
Ash smiled and ruffled her hair. "I planned to pick you up with Professor Oak, but he told me that you were still trying to cause the egg to hatch. And since you are my daughter, I knew you would take the most imprudent option. Also, Pikachu here knew it too, right, buddy?" Pikachu responded with an affirmative cry.
Elysia, now relieved, turned her attention to the still-enraged Rhydon. "But why is it so angry? And where did it even come from?"
Ash, surveying the situation, wore a serious expression. "I don't know, but we need to figure it out. Let's try to calm it down. Pikachu, use Iron Tail once more!"
As Pikachu approached Rhydon and began to use its Iron Tail in a rhythmic, calming motion, the enraged Pokémon's aggression seemed to wane a bit more. Ash commanded another series of attacks, focusing on Rhydon’s weak points.
Meanwhile, as the injured Jigglypuff that Elysia had rescued watched the battle from the safety of her embrace, something grabbed its attention. Elysia, noticing that gesture, used her keen eyes and spotted the same peculiar thing Jigglypuff saw—a sturdy band-like object encircling Rhydon's tail. She quickly pointed it out to her father.
"Dad, look! There's something on Rhydon's tail. What could it be?" Elysia inquired, her curiosity mixed with concern.
Ash examined the band, and after a moment of reflection, he identified the item.
"So that’s what is going on,” he said. “That's a Macho Brace. Trainers use it to help their Pokémon grow stronger by training specific attributes. It's not harmful, but something must have triggered Rhydon, making it react like this."
As Pikachu landed more attacks, his efforts to break the malfunctioning item proved futile since he could never reach the exact spot. Elysia, realizing Pikachu's struggle and not wanting for the agitated Pokémon to continue its distress, had had enough, and without a second thought, she made a reckless yet firm decision. Swiftly removing her backpack, which cradled her precious egg, she handed the Jigglypuff she held in her arms to her father. Ignoring Ash's perplexed expression, Elysia rushed towards Rhydon.
“Wait! Pikacharm, what are you…!?” Ash tried to say after receiving the injured Pokémon. He watched in astonishment as his daughter fearlessly approached the rampaged Rhydon, determined to make a difference.
As Pikachu continued its engagement with Rhydon, Elysia displayed once again her remarkable and gymnastic agility, deftly dodging the Ground-type Pokémon's tail and evading its powerful stomps as it assumed a more defensive posture against Pikachu. Exploiting the distraction, Elysia seized the opportunity to climb onto Rhydon's back, skillfully gripping onto the Pokémon's spikes. The ongoing battle with Pikachu monopolized Rhydon's attention, allowing Elysia to position herself right in front of the macho brace. Without hesitation, she grabbed a nearby rock and began smashing the malfunctioning item relentlessly.
The realization of Elysia's presence finally struck Rhydon, and momentarily ignoring Pikachu, the formidable Pokémon executed a forceful swing, attempting to dislodge the determined young girl from its back.
Undeterred by Rhydon's forceful movements, Elysia remained steadfast until her mission was accomplished. Ash, now genuinely worried, commanded Pikachu to regain Rhydon's attention with a Thunderbolt attack. As Pikachu clapped his cheeks to generate the electric charge, ready to strike, Rhydon unleashed a final jolt, an unexpectedly powerful and violent surge. Elysia, unable to withstand the force, was launched through the air like a sack of potatoes, hurtling towards her father. In the midst of shock and horror, Ash emitted a silent yell, fearing for his daughter's well-being.
Suddenly, Jigglypuff, despite its injuries, also made a reckless move. Escaping from Ash's arms, the pink Pokémon inflated itself to an impressive size, even turning red from the effort.
Elysia landed on the inflated Jigglypuff, the visible strain on the Pokémon's face reflecting the force exerted by Rhydon. However, Jigglypuff, with admirable effort, absorbed most of the impact, bouncing back the young girl like a resilient cushion. Elysia finally made contact with the ground, landing on her butt.
Ash hurriedly approached her, concern evident in his voice. "Pikacharm, are you alright?" he asked, his parental worry palpable.
Elysia, though wincing, only rubbed her side and offered her father a smile that concealed the evident ache from her landing.
"I'm fine, Dad. It was... a bit more painful than I thought, but look!" she proudly declared, displaying the broken macho brace she had successfully removed from Rhydon.
Ash sighed and smiled with relief. “Pikacharm, you were about to cause me an early strike!”
With the malfunctioning item finally broken, the tension in the air began to dissipate, and Rhydon gradually calmed down. Ash offered reassuring words to the Pokémon, encouraging it to catch its breath and relax.
Elysia, relieved that the ordeal was over, sighed with a sense of gratitude. The forest fell back into a peaceful atmosphere, with the sounds of nature replacing the earlier chaos.
Just then, a young man emerged from the forest, attempting to catch up with the unfolding scene. As he reached the group, Ash turned to him with a questioning look.
"Is this Rhydon yours?" Ash inquired, his tone calm but authoritative.
“It is,” said the young man as he stepped forward. “I was in the midst of training Rhydon to learn Surf but I forgot to remove the Macho Brace when I encouraged him to swim. That scared and upset my partner. I’m so sorry, I couldn’t stop him.”
Understanding the situation, Ash offered a friendly piece of advice. "You've got to be careful with your Pokémon, especially during training. But overall, you've done an excellent job raising it. Just remember to take it one step at a time."
The young man, grateful for the guidance, nodded appreciatively. "Thanks for helping us out. I'll make sure to be more careful next time."
As the young trainer took a better look at Ash, recognition flashed across his face. He realized he was in the presence of none other than the World Monarch himself. Nervously, he began apologizing repeatedly for his oversight. Ash, with a chuckle, reassured the young man to take it easy and make sure to get Rhydon to a Pokémon Center for a checkup.
The young trainer, still flustered but grateful for Ash's understanding, recalled Rhydon into its Pokéball and hurriedly left the scene. Father and daughter were left in contemplation of the serene forest, the tension from earlier now replaced by a sense of calm.
Ash turned his attention to the injured but brave Jigglypuff that saved her daughter, realizing it needed immediate care now than ever. He reached into his backpack, retrieving a small first aid kit that he always carried during their travels. Ash, displaying his renowned compassion and expertise, turned to Elysia.
“Pikacharm, do you want to take care of Jigglypuff?” he asked.
Elysia's face lit up with excitement, and she eagerly nodded. As her father handed her the first aid kit, she delicately approached the injured Jigglypuff. With meticulous care, she began the healing process. The first step was applying a Potion, and she could feel the slight discomfort the pink Pokémon experienced as soon as she sprayed the tonic. She struggled a bit to remain calm, determined to ease Jigglypuff's pain.
“Am I doing it right, Dad?” she asked after each step, seeking assurance.
“Excellent. But remember that you must remain calm as well, okay? That way, you will help Jigglypuff to feel better” Ash advised her with a reassuring tone as he guided her through the rest of the process. Elysia continued with utmost care, gently wrapping the injured part with a bandage.
As both finished tending to Jigglypuff, the round Pokémon, now relieved of its pain, let out a grateful growl and scampered off to resume its Pokémon activities. Father and daughter bid a farewell to the heroic Jigglypuff, with Elysia feeling a mix of relief and excitement after the unexpected adventure on the eve of her journey.
"Well, Pikacharm. Are you ready to go?" Ash asked with a playful smile. "It's already a bit late, and your mom will get mad if you show up at your birthday party with branches and leaves all over your hair. And on our way back, you better start looking for an excuse for those scraps."
Elysia chuckled and nodded in agreement. The two then boarded Dragonite, the majestic Pokémon ready for flight. As they soared across Vermillion City, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting warm hues across the sky.
As they soared through the sky together, a sense of warmth and deep respect for her dad enveloped Elysia. Once again, Ash demonstrated why he was still regarded as the Monarch of the Pokémon world. His kindness, appreciation, and respect for people and Pokémon alike made her proud to be his daughter.
“How is uncle Gary and aunt Iris?” Elysia asked with tender, aware of her father’s previous visit to the memorial.
“They send their regards and best wishes,” Ash responded, appreciative of his daughter’s courtesy and attention.
"Dad, do you think I will be as great as you?" she asked, her voice filled with a mix of admiration and uncertainty.
Ash chuckled at her question. "No, Pikacharm. You'll be better," he reassured with a smile and a kiss on her forehead. "Better than anyone I've ever met."
"Well, I won't be late to choose my first Pokémon like you did, so... I already bet you on that," she playfully declared, her eyes sparkling with determination and a touch of mischief.
As they approached the Ketchum residence, their home came into view, mainly composed of vast landscapes for their numerous Pokémon to live and interact. The surroundings were now adorned with festive lights and ornaments in celebration of the special occasion.
Unaware of the magical development, Elysia's excitement bubbled as she anticipated the festivities that awaited her. The egg nestled in her backpack, however, started emitting gentle light pulses, signaling the imminent moment when it would hatch and reveal itself as her first partner. A mysterious energy surrounded the moment, a prelude to the beginning of Elysia's own Pokémon journey.