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- Seen Mar 28, 2010
So, here's the deal. I'm big on writing and I love me some Pokemans, but I write more serious stories. I don't usually get into fanfic, but I was bored one evening and came up with this. It's essentially a Pokemon Red Blue story retelling with element from the anime and the games.
But, I'm a pretty picky guy. I only write stories I'm motivated to write, and by that I mean I have support, and people asking for deadlines. This is a condensed prologue, which will be expanded upon -if- you guys want more. Then I'll continue on the story til the end. I have an outline setup so there is no sudden story changes or anything--I know what I'm doing. So, if you like what you see, post here and let me know. Inspire me. Thanks.
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PROLOGUE
The sun was setting on a small town in the southern Kanto region. The rustling of the grass slowed with the falling light, making way for glowing bright eyes beyond the trees and the more sinister whispers of the wind. The only light remaining as the sun finally left the sky came from the windows of a home solely occupied by a single mother and her son. Inside, the busy woman worked hastily at the dishes, eager to sleep after her long, exhausting day. Her long black hair complimented her darker skin complexion, and her sleeveless blouse and jeans implied a somewhat laid back woman. Her green eyes were deep pools, reaching down as far as her years. Her eyes reflected in the full sinks created a mirror image of depth. Dishes piled on forever, but eventually the stacks lessened and she slumped into a chair, exhausted. A rag in one hand and glass of water in the other, she sighed exasperatedly and tossed the rag back, taking a deep gulp of water. As she leaned forward onto the wooden table, her eyes turned to a ball on the smooth surface. The ball, red and white, was split in the middle with some sort of button for triggering the device. It was a Poké Ball, used to capture and contain Pokémon.
I shouldn't have dragged that out...but with Red going...I just had to think things through she thought as she frowned down at the amazing contraption in her hands. She pressed the button, knowing what to expect. Nothing. The ball did nothing, same as always, locked up for whatever reason. She had even had Oak examine it, but all he could do was try to scan it. The test results simply said that it contained no known Pokémon and was apparently empty. But...since it was a gift from him, his last gift to their family, she had kept it.
The mother closed her eyes sadly. Her son was leaving and she would be all alone...but more importantly, Red would be all alone. Now that he was leaving, she had no control. I've always tried to protect him, but now... she thinks, remembering a handsome face.
She smiled, not noticing the hair-thin tear sliding down her face.
Suddenly, a sound from the room above caught her ear. A small crash and the barely audible echo of a very enthusiastic announcer told her two things. One, he had fixed the television. Two, Red had finally crossed over her boundaries. I told him to go to bed early tonight. Birthday or not, he needs to get up early tomorrow...ooooohhh...he thinks just because he's sixteen now he doesn't have to listen to his mother! she thought angrily. She scooted up her chair quickly as she stood up, marching up the stairs with deliberate noise. She heard a panicked intake of air as he quickly tried to turn off everything and get in bed. Does he think I'm that stupid?
When she got to the top of the stairs, she opened the door with a resounding thwack! and pointed at her son, who had his finger on the power button, stopping cold.
"Oh, mom, um...what are you still doing up?" he asked, trying to play innocent feebly. Her son sat up with his legs tucked in, black hair falling over his eyes a bit. His clothes were wrinkled badly, a black t-shirt with a red and white vest, while his jeans were torn and frayed, giving the impression of every rebellious teenage kid.
"What am I doing up!? Look at you! You're up late before the big day watching TV with no clothes washed, and all your belongings unpacked! What are you thinking, Red...?" she countered exasperatedly, rubbing her temples. "Oh...I guess it's okay." she said, calming down. "This time."
Red let out a sigh of relief and straightened his hat.
"Just, go to sleep. I'll take your clothes and wash them tonight, you just throw your stuff together and go to bed," she sighed, grabbing some of the clothes on the floor and making her way out of the room.
"Mom..."
"Yes, Red?" she questioned, starting and turning her head around to answer him.
"Hey, I'm sorry. Thanks for helping," he began, looking at her seriously, "I'm just really psyched, you know? I want to be really good...the best. And I'm really glad you're not complaining about letting me go. "
Smiling, his mother turned around just outside the door.
"I was kind of hoping you'd go for..." she said jokingly, "but I... sixteen years old-- just, go to sleep, okay?" With an tiny squint and a sparkle of her emerald eyes, she closed the door just as a piece of clothing drops.
Red smiled back and sighed as she shut it, grabbing his things lazily. He laid back in bed, pulling his baseball cap over his smiling face.
The mother sighed, making her way down the stairs. She weaved through the kitchen, picking up the red-white ball on the table and going out to the deck, leaning on the rail. She looked up at the moon, closed her eyes and smiled to herself.
He's grown up so fast, and he's so like you...would you be proud? Or would you be...?
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Light slid across the foot of Red's bed, streaming from the moonlight peeking through his windows. He laid back on his bed, thinking.
I know that a new trainer gets a rare Pokémon from far away...but I've never seen them before. I hope the one I get is a good one.
His mother opened the door downstairs, and Red heard her make her way to her bedroom. A frown twitched onto his lips.
She's been acting kind of odd lately. I guess she's upset that I'm leaving here. But I can't stay here forever...nah. Think about it later. Time for sleep.
Red tugs his hat further down.
I'm going to be even better than my old man.
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CHAPTER 1
Red awoke to booming thunderclaps and the hard sound of raindrops pelting the house with soft strokes to the roof. He almost decided on going back to sleep, too dazed to remember the prospects of the coming day. Fevered dreams chased him through his half-sleep, until eventually, he remembered the previous evening, and jerked upwards, taking a deep waking breath and running a hand across his face and through his untidy black hair. Rubbing his eyes, he turned to the clock sleepily. Six o' clock. Pushing it, but just fine considering his history. The house was strangely quiet for this morning, as normally he could already hear his mother bustling about downstairs. Red got up sloppily, palms hitting either side of his thin frame onto the mattress.
Time to get up. No procrastinating he thought determinedly. I've been waiting for this day a long time, when I finally become a licensed battler. He swung his legs over the bed, hopping up and beginning to get dressed, going over his attire like a checklist. Black shirt, check. Red jacket, check...
A knock on the door.
Red finished buckling his belt and opened the door for his mother, who leaned into the room, turning to him and said, "Red, I don't know if you should be going out in this weather, maybe you should-"
"No Mom, it'll be fine. I planned to leave today, and that's what I'm going to do," stated Red firmly, cutting her off. He loads a last few things into his large pack, jerking it into place on his back. He opened the door, walking down the familiar carpeted staircase right past his mother, not looking back once. The living room where he played as a child, now bare of the random playthings and mess strewn about, is ignored. His parents' bedroom where he used to sleep when he was scared received no extra thought. His mother followed behind him quickly, concerned, but most of all, unwilling to let go.
"Red, don't you want to stay for breakfast?" she asks, keeping with his quick pace as they entered the kitchen, a brightly lit room with a single wooden table and a few chairs. A refrigerator stood next to the stove and oven, where there was food sizzling unattended.
"Not hungry." he said. She hastened her pace and shot her hand forward to grab his.
"Stay a bit? Before heading out?" They stopped at the entry, his mother looking at him thoughtfully with strained eyes.
Sighing, Red dropped his backpack to the floor, at his feet. "Fine. Fine, Mom. We'll sit down and have breakfast." he snapped. His mother stared at him, hurt. "No, no. Let's do it," he said, his eyes lost below the shadow of his hat's rim. He pulled up a chair with a screech and sat with both his arms down in front of him, overlapped.
Nervously, his mother went to to the stove where she had been cooking eggs on a skillet with some toast and bacon. She kept looking back at Red, as if to make sure he hadn't disappeared. As she finished, she loaded her labor onto a plate for him, and laid it in front of him. He stared at her in total silence, and as soon as she opened her mouth, he knew what it was about.
"Maybe you shouldn't-"
"I knew you would try this. I just, well, I should have known. I tried, really tried to be nice last night, but this is the last I'm gonna hear of it. I am sixteen now. You can't stop me just because you're worried. This is my life."
"You'll be all on your own! But you could be hurt! You could get killed!"
"I DON'T CARE!" Red yelled back at his mother, locking eyes with her. "I can take care of myself."
"Red, I-"
"No. No. You can't keep me here because of Rocket. You can't keep me here because of him. Or because of you."
She lurched to grab his shoulder, salted streams starting to trail from her eyes, and grasped him firmly.
"Red...the news today. The Rocket syndicate attacked Saffron, it's been completely run over. You're still young, it's too dangerous! I've been keeping you here for a reason!"
Red stopped, looking down, not facing her. "I've been trapped here, for most of my life. Trapped. And wasted. I don't want to stay here, I want to go out and make my own life."
He turned, put an arm on her shoulder. "Please see reason," said Red, trying to be calm, "I want my own life, out in the world. I know that dad is gone. And I miss him too. But I'll come back. I promise."
"Well the thing is, Red...he said that too. I don't want you to go."
Red turned from her. He grabbed a piece of toast and bit down on it as he moved, ignoring any recollection of the time spent here. He looked back, and said with a touch of venom, "I've had enough. I'm not staying here anymore." He refused even to look her in the eye. Quickly, he hoisted up his bags again, and opened the door to a symphony of rain.
In the living room, the television was showing a movie, as four boys began a walk along a winding railroad...
He took a few steps outside, standing in the torrent for just a moment, raindrops flowing down his face and off of his protruding hat rim. The town was surrounded by wooded area, and little houses littered the hilltops, even some hanging off the slopes. The grass was not too long, but long enough to Bushes littered the ground as they pleased, rounding out the humble landscape. It was quite picturesque, but Red had long since stopped seeing the beauty in it. He needed a holiday. Far away, he could see his destination, wide and tall, the monolith of his ambition. Professor Oak's place of work, and the key to his departure. He closed his eyes and grinned, overwhelming ambition forcing him through it all, then stepped forward and began his long walk to the Oak Research and Development Center.
His mother walked lightly to the door, with a face full of fresh new sorrow and a flood of tears to match the rain, yelling his name in desperate agony, standing just before the darkness and watching him as he walks away from his lifelong home, for the penultimate time.
Red walked onward, now blind to the life behind him. The rain came down hard, splashing weight onto his shoulders. The soaking, however, did not bother him, as his foresight extended at least enough to get a water proof pack. The sun had only barely risen and even then, there wasn't much visible through the various clouds towering over the empty grass fields.
A small disturbance to the right, a rusting of grass and an extra splattering of rain alerted him to the arrival of a friend. He turned around, walking backwards and scoping the area for his visitor...
"Blue! I was wondering if we'd meet up!" Red yelled to him, waving enthusiastically.
A young man began sprinting towards him, his black shirt and cargo pants completely soaked as well. His spiked brown hair drooped under the pressure of the downpour, despite the large umbrella in his hand. He caught up to Red, putting the umbrella over the both of them.
"You idiot! You don't just go out in the rain like this without some cover, or at least a jacket!" he said, grinning widely at him as they continued their walk to the lab.
"Look at you!" Red retorted, slapping his wet back with a thud.
"Hey hey hey, it's been kinda windy..." he said, taking a faux defensive tone.
"Nah, chill. It's good to see you," joked Red as they began climbing a steep incline, "but, hey, did you check on your Gramps to see what kind of Pokémon we were gonna get?"
Blue rummaged through one of his pockets for a laminated page, handing it to Red. "Be careful," he said as he pushed it into his hands, "It's my only copy."
Red nodded, opening up the page to see what his first Pokémon may be. Three Pokémon appeared on the page: a Bulbasaur, a green dinosaur with red eyes and a giant green bulb on his back, Squirtle, a blue turtle Pokémon with a curled tail, and a Charmander, an orange lizard-like creature with a fiery tail. "These are pretty cool," he said excitedly, handing the paper back to Blue, who unceremoniously shoved it into a different pocket. "Have you thought about which one you want?"
"Squirtle, that's what I'm asking for. I read up on his evolution. He has giant cannons on his back." he said, grinning.
"That's just...awesome." Red replied, laughing and grinning back. "I want a Charmander, I think."
"Ha! You better hope you never battle me then. I'll put out his light before you even know we moved," he taunted, punching his shoulder playfully.
"Yeah right," Red chuckled as they reached the top of the hill, where the monolith of the lab awaited.
They entered through the double doors quickly, out of breath with their hands on their knees gasping for breath.
The room was very clean and mostly white, with a tiled floor and Poké Ball-decorated wall, with lots of computers and monitors about. There were also many chairs lined up against the wall. It seemed to be a waiting room, but was empty.
"Remind me...never to...race you in...the rain," gasps Red between gulps of air.
"Me...too!" says Blue, trying to laugh with his strained lungs.
As they both caught their breath, a young man in a lab coat walked up to them. He looked at them through his large glasses nervously and seemed as if he wanted to say something. Red and Blue looked at him curiously, waiting for him to say something, anything. He stayed silent. They stared at each other for several moments.
"Er...I'm...Professor Elm. Oak told me you boys were coming in today...um, follow me?" he asks, nervous—but energetic.
Blue, seeming to recognize him, stood up fully and put a quick arm around him, then stepped back to shake his hand. "Elm, man, I haven't seen you in like eight years!" he exclaimed, looking around. "So, where's Gramps? I thought he was gonna be evaluating us today."
"Oh, he's, uh, back in the testing area, working on some project. They've got him working with the military now poor guy. I'm glad we don't have this sort of problem back in Johto," he said, addressing the recent efforts of Rocket, a criminal organization that had escalated its efforts recently into all-out war. "You're lucky...they're considering closing the roads. The recent attacks on Saffron City have been very large scale. If this keeps up, they'll take the roads too."
A moment of uneasy silence swept them.
"Well, that's Red, right? Come on over, I've heard a lot about you. They say both of you boys got full marks on the written exam." he said, looking at them in approval.
"Nah, that was Blue. I just kinda got through it," mumbled Red, slightly embarrassed. "I don't do so well with tests."
"Well, let's hope you're better with practical tests than written ones, or you won't get a Pokémon today." said Elm, putting his hands into his pockets. "Now, eh, follow me, and we'll get your Pokémon and begin the exam."
As Elm turned and began his stride, the boys smiled at each other and threw their bags onto the metal chairs, following closely behind Professor Elm. As they went through the Plexiglas doors, they entered into a long narrow hallway with various test chambers. Occasionally, Red looked through one of the frosted windows, seeing various men and women in white coats experimenting with Pokémon. Some were friendly, playing with the Pokémon and performing their work very gently; others were more methodical and calculating, and gave the creatures no special treatment.
Professor Elm opens a door to his left, turning to them.
"Ah! I almost forgot...we need to take your pictures, get your thumb prints. Standard procedure, promise." he says, smiling nervously. The room is plain and white with a camera on a stand, a table, and a single chair. He steps aside to usher them in, setting Blue into a seat first. He goes back, adjusts, and takes the photo. Blue jams in his thumb and gets up, rolling his eyes at Elm as he drops the the remote mistakenly. Red shares a quick grin with him and plops down into the chair, putting on his best fake picture smile. The flash goes off and he too jams his thumb into the pad, holding it for second then getting up and walking back out. Elm drops the remote again, and Red and Blue give each other a look.
"This guy is really jittery," whispers Red, turning his head to Blue, "is he always like this?"
Elm trips on the way out.
"Yes."
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Soon, they had reached the end of the hall, with a large LCD sign above the door that read "Testing Arena".
Testing...Arena? Red asked himself in his head, with a sudden jolt of realization. I wonder who I'm going to be facing...
As they went through that last set of doors, Elm moved to the side and stood patiently, looking down the hall to the right. There was another hall going to the left and right and a window in front of them where the Arena loomed ahead, fairly massive and clean, with a Poké Ball design painted onto the floor.
Then, a spattering of steps from the right. Red and Blue leaned over into the hall to look for the source of the sound, and found it.
Professor Oak, though aging thoroughly, has not lost his life yet. He was tall, strong, and walked with determination, though his knotted hands and flabby face gave the impression of a man who had entered retirement. Though his body was old, his eyes were bright and full of energy. He smiled and waved at them, stopping before them with his arms behind his back.
"Hello boys. How are you today? Ready to get your first Pokémon?" he asked, his smile cutting through his years.
"Yes sir," said Red, standing straight and proud. Blue followed similarly.
"Well, there is...a bit of a problem, you see...." he muttered, frowning. "We were supposed to receive their Poké Balls this morning, but, we've received a call that the shipment was hijacked...by Rocket. They stole the truck and the Pokémon. Fortunately, they left the drivers alive, thank goodness..."
Red and Blue's faces fell in a combination of disappointment and dread.
"Yes, yes, Rocket is getting more and more bold all the time...unfortunate. For my research too, these government applications are eating up all my time," he said, frustrated. "I didn't become a Pokémon Professor to help fight a war...but, I digress. I do still have two Pokémon, but it's all I have. You'll have to make due. Now, I don't want any hard feelings between you boys, so I'm not going to tell you what Pokémon is in there until you've chosen."
He held out two Poké Balls, saying, "Now boys, choose wisely. This Pokémon will doubtless be your partner for some time. Treat them with care if you want them to grow strong."
Red and Blue both looked at other, making faces.
"Sucks that we don't really get to choose, but I guess it's better than no Pokémon at all, right?" joked Red, nodding towards Oak. "Go ahead, you choose first, it's your birthday."
"It's your birthday too, you twit," he said, jabbing him, "but if that's how you want it..."
He took the first Poké Ball, as Red grabbed the second.
Red looked down at his happily. Yes! My first step to my new life, and this Pokémon will take me there!
Red glanced back up to Blue, who began tossing his lightly. "So, Gramps...who got what here?"
"You'll find out in a moment," laughed Professor Oak, motioning them to follow and turning to walk down the hall, "you're going to have your first battle together."
Red and Blue look at each other, surprised. A spark of intensity flew between them, choking the air, but slowly they relaxed and smiled at each other. They both grabbed their brand new Poké Balls and clipped them onto their special belts, as was custom.
"Time to see which of us is better then," said Red, "Let's go."
Blue nodded, chasing after him down the hall as they entered the stadium.
There were two sides to the stadium, and a place for each battler to stand. The orange floor was well taken care of and extremely reflective, reminding them of their presence with each step in the opposite direction. Professor Oak made his way across the stadium and up a set of stairs to a small glass booth where the examination table sits. Professor Elm walked in as well, taking a seat next to Oak at the examination chamber, pulling out pens and paper from their steel desks and writing down some basic information. Red and Blue stared each other down, both wondering the same thing. Which of us will win?
There's no way I'm going to win this. He's way better than I am, and I still don't know what my Pokémon is. I'm willing to bet that no matter what Blue has, he'll know exactly how to use it...I can only hope for some sort of advantage thought Red, all traces of a smile gone. This was his first battle. He knew the rules, he knew the many mechanics, but he didn't know if it would be enough.
Red might be tough. He's always been a slacker, but he thinks fast. I probably have a better idea of what I'm doing than he does, but he's got quick wits. Our first battle...not something I can say I was looking forward to. Oh what the heck, I'm lying.
"Now, the rules of this examination are very simple. This will be a one-on-one match with no time limit. The first battler to run out of Pokémon will be the loser. You may release your Pokémon at this time."
Red and Blue moved at almost the exact same time, grabbing their PokeBalls and holding them high in the air, holding the center button tight, then releasing them, rolling quickly and opening. A red flare shot out from the opening, assembling their Pokémon in front of their eyes.
"Battler Red has opened with a Psyduck!" announced Oak using the microphone in the booth, and indicating the Pokémon. It was small, barely up to Red's knees, yellow and round with a small tuft of black hair in the back of it's head. It wagged its tail vigorously and held its head as if suffering some sort of headache. It had a large bill and blank, confused eyes. It looked back at Red, cocking its head curiously, and regarded its new trainer.
Red looked at it, disappointed. He had read about Psyduck. They were prone to strong headaches and often were hindered by them. There goes my chances...
"And Battler Blue has opened with a Growlithe!" announced Oak, smiling. Once again, he indicated the Pokémon, which was now running around Blue and yapping playfully. It had an orange and black striped body with tufts of gold-tan fur and a cute puppy face. Suddenly, it noticed Red's Psyduck and growled menacingly, losing the cute face. Psyduck panics, taking a few steps back.
This is exactly the kind of advantage I needed. Growlithe is a Fire-type, so he's going to take a lot more damage from my attacks. I just have to land enough... thinks Red, concentrating hard to remember his studies.
Well... thought Blue, that's luck of the draw for ya...
"It seems there's some tension on the field..." noted Oak, "Very well. You may begin!"
"Go, Growlithe! Burn him out!" commanded Blue, the Growlithe instantly charging at Psyduck, firing ranged bursts of flame from his open mouth. Psyduck scattered, dodging flare bursts haphazardly. The flame jets dissipated as they hit the walls, which proved to be flame-retardent. Growlithe continued to confidently advance, launching fire at would-be escape routes, trying to corner him. He jumped about as he fired,, finally skidding to a halt where he thought he had cornered Psyduck. Finally, after the initial shock of the sudden start, Red began to call the shots.
"Psyduck, aim a Water Gun at him!" he ordered, pointing determinedly at the skidding Growlithe. Psyduck opened his mouth and sprayed a high-pressure blast of cool water, colliding instantly and swirling into steam with Growlithe's reaction, a burst of flame. The clouds of steam made it hard to see what was going on, wisping slowly through the air. Their silhouettes were barely visible.
"Psyduck! Scratch!" yelled Red, as the Pokémon rushed forward and placed a well-aimed blow across the Growlithe's cheek, knocking him against the orange tile floor harshly, then landed and shifted back a few feet, growling angrily.
Above, Oak and Elm both watched carefully as the battle unfolded, taking precise notes.
"Take Down!" called out Blue. Growlithe quickly nodded to affirm the command, and took a wider stance, suddenly rushing at Psyduck. In a wild tackle, he slammed into Psyduck, apparently hurting himself in the process. Psyduck went flying, bouncing off the reflective floor several times before landing at Red's feet.
"No, Psyduck...get up!" pleaded Red, crouching down to him, "Come on!"
Psyduck slowly got up, pretty bruised, but eyes slanting into new determination He pulled his arms back, narrowing his eyes. Red watched, surprised.
"Tackle him Growlithe!" ordered Blue, looking over the scene. His speed's not bad, but he's very confused. I don't think he'll be able to take a direct attack.
As the Growlithe skidded back from the force of the slam, he pounced at Psyduck, crashing him into the floor, leaving a small crack in the arena tile. Psyduck held his head in agony as he laid there, another stronger headache causing him not to resist. Growlithe pinned him down hard.
"Finish it off with Ember!" Blue shouted, standing firm, assured of his victory.
Growlithe pulled back his head, taking a deep breath. Flames began to swirl to life in his mouth...
Red panicked, yelling, "Water Gun, Scratch, Psyduck, do something!" to no response. He angrily held his head in his hand, ruffling his hair.
Wait...that's it! The headache! Psyduck has psychic powers intensified by headaches! he remembered, smirking suddenly.
Blue stepped back, sure that Red had a plan.
"Psyduck...use Confusion!"
Psyduck's eyes glowed bright blue, emanating a wispy teal aura. Growlithe stopped in mid-breath, seemingly frozen. Then, chaos. He jumped off of Psyduck, running in circles and firing flames randomly, his movements dizzy and uncoordinated. Psyduck got up, eyes no longer glowing. It seemingly was not even aware of what had just happened. He cocked his head again.
"Psy...?"
Red slapped a palm to his face, bringing it down across his face. Great. He doesn't know what he's doing at all. Hopefully he can carry out this one.
"Psyduck, end it with another Water Gun!" directed Red, making another gesture at the Growlithe tripping dizzily across the floor.
Obediently, Psyduck opened his mouth and launched another powerful jet of water, hitting Growlithe head on, who was forced back, spinning, and landed on his stomach. Slowly, he tried to get up, but collapsed, exhausted.
Red jumped and punched the air, whooping loudly. Psyduck looked pleased too, leaning back to fold his arms and smirk—but had his bravado interrupted by yet another headache.
Blue pulled his hair out of his eyes, drooping a bit. He did it! I never thought he would win. I don't even think he did. Wow.
"The battle goes to Red! Well done! Please, step outside and sit in the waiting room," said Professor Oak through the intercom, grinning widely. "We'll be with you with your rank and license shortly. Blue, stop at the Pokémon Center down the hall first. You too I think, Red. They'll need some healing. I suggest you return them to their Poké Balls."
Sighing in relief and surprise, Red crouched down again to his Psyduck, offering the Poké Ball.
Suddenly, Psyduck did something Red did not expect—he smacked the Poké Ball out of his hand.
"Professor Oak, what's...?"
"Some Pokémon do not like to stay inside of their PokeBalls. Some prefer staying out all the time," said Oak dismissively, continuing his fevered writing.
Red smiled. "Alright. As long as you're not trouble, you can stay out of the ball, okay?" said Red. Psyduck nodded happily, waddling over to him. Red then turns to Blue, who was kneeling over his Growlithe. "Hey Blue, is he, ya know, okay?"
"Yeah, he'll be alright. Just gotta get him to the Center here," he mumbled. "Great match. I had forgotten about Psyduck's extra abilities."
He held out his Poké Ball and opened it. Growlithe was sucked back in with the same red flare of light, and the ball closed. He hooked it onto his belt.
"That was a great battle Red. I thought I had it, but you surprised me. Great match, really," he said, offering a hand to Red. He took it and they shook firmly, as friends. Blue threw an arm around Red and they left together, the still confused Psyduck waddling behind them.
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At the Pokémon Center inside the lab, Red dropped off his Psyduck onto the center counter. He was instantly upset. Red sighed exasperatedly.. "So, what, do you want me to stay Psyduck?" he asked, as Blue grinned, handing his PokeBall to the nurse.
Psyduck nodded, stopping his tears.
"Alright...mind stayin' with me man?" asked Red as they take Psyduck and Growlithe back behind the counter area.
"Yeah, might as well. If the technology here is as advanced Gramps claims, it shouldn't take too long," he sighed, resting against the counter. He took in a deep breath and closed his eyes, thinking.
"Something wrong, Blue?" asked Red, turning his head to look at his friend.
"Not really,I just...I'm excited to finally start out, but, my family. I'm gonna miss them," he said, frowning, "It's not as easy to leave home...as I thought it would be, now that it's actually happening."
"Oh...yeah," said Red guiltily, remembering the morning's fight, "Well you know, my mom didn't want me to go. But I had to. There's nothing here for me. This place is a dead end."
"Well, maybe, but...at least you said your good-byes, right? I mean, you'll come home eventually..." he said, studying Red.
"Yeah...sure," said Red, looking down, the shadow of his brim hiding his eyes again. Deep inside, his memories of his family were eating away at his conscience, but he blocked it out, worried he might chicken out, give up.
Blue opened his mouth to say something, but is cut off by the arrival of the nurses. Psyduck was presented to the two, clean and yelping happily, into Red's open arms, who lets him down. Blue took his Poké Ball and ran it over in his hand, thinking.
"I wonder...if Growlithe likes being out too..." he thought aloud, then opened up the Poké Ball to let him out. Growlithe appeared as good as new, cheerily yapping and pawing at Blue's legs. He leans down, holding up the PokeBall. "Growlithe...would you rather stay inside the ball, or just follow me around? One shake for to stay out, two to go in," he asked, holding it out. The Pokémon pawed at his hand once. "Close enough. Out it is," he said, clipping the ball onto his belt. "Come on, let's go," he said, walking out of the room. Red followed, pushing his mother to very back of his mind.
They made their way back through the narrow hallways, through the Plexiglas door, and fell back into the chairs of the waiting room, leaning forward in silence.
Psyduck and Growlithe, no longer in a battle, got along well, jumping and playing,though Psyduck never seemed to remove his hands from his ever-aching head. Blue regarded them and laughed softly.
"They're our Pokémon...I guess they'll get along fine," he chuckled, then quieted, looking at Red, who was steeped in thought.
Oh god...I did so badly at controlling Psyduck...I really only won through my type advantage. It was mostly sloppy and badly coordinated. thought Red, holding his head in shame.
I didn't win, but I did a much better job of handling my Pokémon than Red, that's sure to give me some extra points mused Blue, absentmindedly petting Growlithe, who curled up in his lap.
Red looked at his pathetic Psyduck. He had already succumbed to another headache, holding his head in pain.
What am I going to do with him...?
The silence was broken by Professors Oak and Elm, who strolled in casually with two cards in hand. Oak stood in front of them, extending a card to each of them.
"This is an A Rank license. You are permitted to go anywhere in Kanto, and even have access to the various Gyms. You are free to challenge them as you wish, collect the Badges, and challenge the Elite Four for the title of Champion. And of course, the awards that come with it," he explained, beaming at both of them, "I'm so proud. Of both of you. I'm sure you'll do fine. And...I have a special favor to ask."
Red and Blue stood up, ecstatic.
"Sure Gramps, anything you want, right Red?" Blue asked, twisting his neck over to face him.
"Uh, yeah, sure!" agreed Red, looking over his license. I think I'd agree to just about anything today.
"In my youth, I was a Pokémon trainer too...I traveled all across the world, meeting all kinda of Pokémon, but...I had a dream. One that I was never able to realize at the time. To catch every kind of Pokémon in the world! That was my dream..." he sighed, looking upward. "But I got old, settled down. Things like this happen, in life. But, anyway...I invented a device, many years later, called," he says, reaching into his coat pockets, "a Pokédex."
He offered a device to each of them, a red machine resembling an electronic book. They opened them cautiously to examine them.
"This module records data on any Pokémon you see or catch. Simply open the device and point the sensors at the Pokémon you want to record. Catching a Pokémon will provide far more data than simply encountering a Pokémon in the wild, as my Pokédex can read data directly from a Pokeball. I have already loaded the data of your two Pokémon, so don't worry about recording them."
Red closed his Pokédex, regarding it for a moment, then looked at Oak thoughtfully.
"So, you want us to record the Pokémon we find for you, and when we've completed it, to bring it back?" he asked, holding it in his palm.
"Exactly, both of you. I know it's a lot to ask of you, but-"
"Nah, Gramps, it's no trouble. We'll do it, you can count on us," promised Blue, closing his own and pocketing it, "and I'll do it before Red can."
"Sure, whatever works for you," moaned Red, rolling his eyes. Blue ribs him, grinning.
"Alright boys. It's the beginning of a new day. And, lucky for you, the rain is finally gone!" said Oak, looking out the double glass doors. "Come here, Blue. Give your ol' Grandpa a hug," he said, locking his arms around his grandson. Red watched, uncomfortable once again. His Psyduck looked at him curiously. Blue's Growlithe, impatient, began pawing at his legs. He broke out of the hug and leaned down to ruffle Growlithe's mane, smiling.
"Ready to go Red?" he asked, motioning him as he slinged his backpack over his shoulder.
Red did the same, nodding. "Yeah, let's go."
They made their way through the doors, Psyduck and Growlithe following close behind.
The sun shines over the wet grassy fields, stretching out before them. Red can barely see his home, off in the distance. He stared at it for a moment, considered it, and decided to ignore it.
"There'll be plenty of time to come home and see her again..." Red thought aloud.
"Huh?"
"Oh...nothing, Blue."
They both made their way down the hill, Pokémon in tow, towards the road to Viridian City, the path ahead the first leg of their adventure.
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END CHAPTER 1
But, I'm a pretty picky guy. I only write stories I'm motivated to write, and by that I mean I have support, and people asking for deadlines. This is a condensed prologue, which will be expanded upon -if- you guys want more. Then I'll continue on the story til the end. I have an outline setup so there is no sudden story changes or anything--I know what I'm doing. So, if you like what you see, post here and let me know. Inspire me. Thanks.
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PROLOGUE
The sun was setting on a small town in the southern Kanto region. The rustling of the grass slowed with the falling light, making way for glowing bright eyes beyond the trees and the more sinister whispers of the wind. The only light remaining as the sun finally left the sky came from the windows of a home solely occupied by a single mother and her son. Inside, the busy woman worked hastily at the dishes, eager to sleep after her long, exhausting day. Her long black hair complimented her darker skin complexion, and her sleeveless blouse and jeans implied a somewhat laid back woman. Her green eyes were deep pools, reaching down as far as her years. Her eyes reflected in the full sinks created a mirror image of depth. Dishes piled on forever, but eventually the stacks lessened and she slumped into a chair, exhausted. A rag in one hand and glass of water in the other, she sighed exasperatedly and tossed the rag back, taking a deep gulp of water. As she leaned forward onto the wooden table, her eyes turned to a ball on the smooth surface. The ball, red and white, was split in the middle with some sort of button for triggering the device. It was a Poké Ball, used to capture and contain Pokémon.
I shouldn't have dragged that out...but with Red going...I just had to think things through she thought as she frowned down at the amazing contraption in her hands. She pressed the button, knowing what to expect. Nothing. The ball did nothing, same as always, locked up for whatever reason. She had even had Oak examine it, but all he could do was try to scan it. The test results simply said that it contained no known Pokémon and was apparently empty. But...since it was a gift from him, his last gift to their family, she had kept it.
The mother closed her eyes sadly. Her son was leaving and she would be all alone...but more importantly, Red would be all alone. Now that he was leaving, she had no control. I've always tried to protect him, but now... she thinks, remembering a handsome face.
She smiled, not noticing the hair-thin tear sliding down her face.
Suddenly, a sound from the room above caught her ear. A small crash and the barely audible echo of a very enthusiastic announcer told her two things. One, he had fixed the television. Two, Red had finally crossed over her boundaries. I told him to go to bed early tonight. Birthday or not, he needs to get up early tomorrow...ooooohhh...he thinks just because he's sixteen now he doesn't have to listen to his mother! she thought angrily. She scooted up her chair quickly as she stood up, marching up the stairs with deliberate noise. She heard a panicked intake of air as he quickly tried to turn off everything and get in bed. Does he think I'm that stupid?
When she got to the top of the stairs, she opened the door with a resounding thwack! and pointed at her son, who had his finger on the power button, stopping cold.
"Oh, mom, um...what are you still doing up?" he asked, trying to play innocent feebly. Her son sat up with his legs tucked in, black hair falling over his eyes a bit. His clothes were wrinkled badly, a black t-shirt with a red and white vest, while his jeans were torn and frayed, giving the impression of every rebellious teenage kid.
"What am I doing up!? Look at you! You're up late before the big day watching TV with no clothes washed, and all your belongings unpacked! What are you thinking, Red...?" she countered exasperatedly, rubbing her temples. "Oh...I guess it's okay." she said, calming down. "This time."
Red let out a sigh of relief and straightened his hat.
"Just, go to sleep. I'll take your clothes and wash them tonight, you just throw your stuff together and go to bed," she sighed, grabbing some of the clothes on the floor and making her way out of the room.
"Mom..."
"Yes, Red?" she questioned, starting and turning her head around to answer him.
"Hey, I'm sorry. Thanks for helping," he began, looking at her seriously, "I'm just really psyched, you know? I want to be really good...the best. And I'm really glad you're not complaining about letting me go. "
Smiling, his mother turned around just outside the door.
"I was kind of hoping you'd go for..." she said jokingly, "but I... sixteen years old-- just, go to sleep, okay?" With an tiny squint and a sparkle of her emerald eyes, she closed the door just as a piece of clothing drops.
Red smiled back and sighed as she shut it, grabbing his things lazily. He laid back in bed, pulling his baseball cap over his smiling face.
The mother sighed, making her way down the stairs. She weaved through the kitchen, picking up the red-white ball on the table and going out to the deck, leaning on the rail. She looked up at the moon, closed her eyes and smiled to herself.
He's grown up so fast, and he's so like you...would you be proud? Or would you be...?
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Light slid across the foot of Red's bed, streaming from the moonlight peeking through his windows. He laid back on his bed, thinking.
I know that a new trainer gets a rare Pokémon from far away...but I've never seen them before. I hope the one I get is a good one.
His mother opened the door downstairs, and Red heard her make her way to her bedroom. A frown twitched onto his lips.
She's been acting kind of odd lately. I guess she's upset that I'm leaving here. But I can't stay here forever...nah. Think about it later. Time for sleep.
Red tugs his hat further down.
I'm going to be even better than my old man.
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CHAPTER 1
Red awoke to booming thunderclaps and the hard sound of raindrops pelting the house with soft strokes to the roof. He almost decided on going back to sleep, too dazed to remember the prospects of the coming day. Fevered dreams chased him through his half-sleep, until eventually, he remembered the previous evening, and jerked upwards, taking a deep waking breath and running a hand across his face and through his untidy black hair. Rubbing his eyes, he turned to the clock sleepily. Six o' clock. Pushing it, but just fine considering his history. The house was strangely quiet for this morning, as normally he could already hear his mother bustling about downstairs. Red got up sloppily, palms hitting either side of his thin frame onto the mattress.
Time to get up. No procrastinating he thought determinedly. I've been waiting for this day a long time, when I finally become a licensed battler. He swung his legs over the bed, hopping up and beginning to get dressed, going over his attire like a checklist. Black shirt, check. Red jacket, check...
A knock on the door.
Red finished buckling his belt and opened the door for his mother, who leaned into the room, turning to him and said, "Red, I don't know if you should be going out in this weather, maybe you should-"
"No Mom, it'll be fine. I planned to leave today, and that's what I'm going to do," stated Red firmly, cutting her off. He loads a last few things into his large pack, jerking it into place on his back. He opened the door, walking down the familiar carpeted staircase right past his mother, not looking back once. The living room where he played as a child, now bare of the random playthings and mess strewn about, is ignored. His parents' bedroom where he used to sleep when he was scared received no extra thought. His mother followed behind him quickly, concerned, but most of all, unwilling to let go.
"Red, don't you want to stay for breakfast?" she asks, keeping with his quick pace as they entered the kitchen, a brightly lit room with a single wooden table and a few chairs. A refrigerator stood next to the stove and oven, where there was food sizzling unattended.
"Not hungry." he said. She hastened her pace and shot her hand forward to grab his.
"Stay a bit? Before heading out?" They stopped at the entry, his mother looking at him thoughtfully with strained eyes.
Sighing, Red dropped his backpack to the floor, at his feet. "Fine. Fine, Mom. We'll sit down and have breakfast." he snapped. His mother stared at him, hurt. "No, no. Let's do it," he said, his eyes lost below the shadow of his hat's rim. He pulled up a chair with a screech and sat with both his arms down in front of him, overlapped.
Nervously, his mother went to to the stove where she had been cooking eggs on a skillet with some toast and bacon. She kept looking back at Red, as if to make sure he hadn't disappeared. As she finished, she loaded her labor onto a plate for him, and laid it in front of him. He stared at her in total silence, and as soon as she opened her mouth, he knew what it was about.
"Maybe you shouldn't-"
"I knew you would try this. I just, well, I should have known. I tried, really tried to be nice last night, but this is the last I'm gonna hear of it. I am sixteen now. You can't stop me just because you're worried. This is my life."
"You'll be all on your own! But you could be hurt! You could get killed!"
"I DON'T CARE!" Red yelled back at his mother, locking eyes with her. "I can take care of myself."
"Red, I-"
"No. No. You can't keep me here because of Rocket. You can't keep me here because of him. Or because of you."
She lurched to grab his shoulder, salted streams starting to trail from her eyes, and grasped him firmly.
"Red...the news today. The Rocket syndicate attacked Saffron, it's been completely run over. You're still young, it's too dangerous! I've been keeping you here for a reason!"
Red stopped, looking down, not facing her. "I've been trapped here, for most of my life. Trapped. And wasted. I don't want to stay here, I want to go out and make my own life."
He turned, put an arm on her shoulder. "Please see reason," said Red, trying to be calm, "I want my own life, out in the world. I know that dad is gone. And I miss him too. But I'll come back. I promise."
"Well the thing is, Red...he said that too. I don't want you to go."
Red turned from her. He grabbed a piece of toast and bit down on it as he moved, ignoring any recollection of the time spent here. He looked back, and said with a touch of venom, "I've had enough. I'm not staying here anymore." He refused even to look her in the eye. Quickly, he hoisted up his bags again, and opened the door to a symphony of rain.
In the living room, the television was showing a movie, as four boys began a walk along a winding railroad...
He took a few steps outside, standing in the torrent for just a moment, raindrops flowing down his face and off of his protruding hat rim. The town was surrounded by wooded area, and little houses littered the hilltops, even some hanging off the slopes. The grass was not too long, but long enough to Bushes littered the ground as they pleased, rounding out the humble landscape. It was quite picturesque, but Red had long since stopped seeing the beauty in it. He needed a holiday. Far away, he could see his destination, wide and tall, the monolith of his ambition. Professor Oak's place of work, and the key to his departure. He closed his eyes and grinned, overwhelming ambition forcing him through it all, then stepped forward and began his long walk to the Oak Research and Development Center.
His mother walked lightly to the door, with a face full of fresh new sorrow and a flood of tears to match the rain, yelling his name in desperate agony, standing just before the darkness and watching him as he walks away from his lifelong home, for the penultimate time.
Red walked onward, now blind to the life behind him. The rain came down hard, splashing weight onto his shoulders. The soaking, however, did not bother him, as his foresight extended at least enough to get a water proof pack. The sun had only barely risen and even then, there wasn't much visible through the various clouds towering over the empty grass fields.
A small disturbance to the right, a rusting of grass and an extra splattering of rain alerted him to the arrival of a friend. He turned around, walking backwards and scoping the area for his visitor...
"Blue! I was wondering if we'd meet up!" Red yelled to him, waving enthusiastically.
A young man began sprinting towards him, his black shirt and cargo pants completely soaked as well. His spiked brown hair drooped under the pressure of the downpour, despite the large umbrella in his hand. He caught up to Red, putting the umbrella over the both of them.
"You idiot! You don't just go out in the rain like this without some cover, or at least a jacket!" he said, grinning widely at him as they continued their walk to the lab.
"Look at you!" Red retorted, slapping his wet back with a thud.
"Hey hey hey, it's been kinda windy..." he said, taking a faux defensive tone.
"Nah, chill. It's good to see you," joked Red as they began climbing a steep incline, "but, hey, did you check on your Gramps to see what kind of Pokémon we were gonna get?"
Blue rummaged through one of his pockets for a laminated page, handing it to Red. "Be careful," he said as he pushed it into his hands, "It's my only copy."
Red nodded, opening up the page to see what his first Pokémon may be. Three Pokémon appeared on the page: a Bulbasaur, a green dinosaur with red eyes and a giant green bulb on his back, Squirtle, a blue turtle Pokémon with a curled tail, and a Charmander, an orange lizard-like creature with a fiery tail. "These are pretty cool," he said excitedly, handing the paper back to Blue, who unceremoniously shoved it into a different pocket. "Have you thought about which one you want?"
"Squirtle, that's what I'm asking for. I read up on his evolution. He has giant cannons on his back." he said, grinning.
"That's just...awesome." Red replied, laughing and grinning back. "I want a Charmander, I think."
"Ha! You better hope you never battle me then. I'll put out his light before you even know we moved," he taunted, punching his shoulder playfully.
"Yeah right," Red chuckled as they reached the top of the hill, where the monolith of the lab awaited.
They entered through the double doors quickly, out of breath with their hands on their knees gasping for breath.
The room was very clean and mostly white, with a tiled floor and Poké Ball-decorated wall, with lots of computers and monitors about. There were also many chairs lined up against the wall. It seemed to be a waiting room, but was empty.
"Remind me...never to...race you in...the rain," gasps Red between gulps of air.
"Me...too!" says Blue, trying to laugh with his strained lungs.
As they both caught their breath, a young man in a lab coat walked up to them. He looked at them through his large glasses nervously and seemed as if he wanted to say something. Red and Blue looked at him curiously, waiting for him to say something, anything. He stayed silent. They stared at each other for several moments.
"Er...I'm...Professor Elm. Oak told me you boys were coming in today...um, follow me?" he asks, nervous—but energetic.
Blue, seeming to recognize him, stood up fully and put a quick arm around him, then stepped back to shake his hand. "Elm, man, I haven't seen you in like eight years!" he exclaimed, looking around. "So, where's Gramps? I thought he was gonna be evaluating us today."
"Oh, he's, uh, back in the testing area, working on some project. They've got him working with the military now poor guy. I'm glad we don't have this sort of problem back in Johto," he said, addressing the recent efforts of Rocket, a criminal organization that had escalated its efforts recently into all-out war. "You're lucky...they're considering closing the roads. The recent attacks on Saffron City have been very large scale. If this keeps up, they'll take the roads too."
A moment of uneasy silence swept them.
"Well, that's Red, right? Come on over, I've heard a lot about you. They say both of you boys got full marks on the written exam." he said, looking at them in approval.
"Nah, that was Blue. I just kinda got through it," mumbled Red, slightly embarrassed. "I don't do so well with tests."
"Well, let's hope you're better with practical tests than written ones, or you won't get a Pokémon today." said Elm, putting his hands into his pockets. "Now, eh, follow me, and we'll get your Pokémon and begin the exam."
As Elm turned and began his stride, the boys smiled at each other and threw their bags onto the metal chairs, following closely behind Professor Elm. As they went through the Plexiglas doors, they entered into a long narrow hallway with various test chambers. Occasionally, Red looked through one of the frosted windows, seeing various men and women in white coats experimenting with Pokémon. Some were friendly, playing with the Pokémon and performing their work very gently; others were more methodical and calculating, and gave the creatures no special treatment.
Professor Elm opens a door to his left, turning to them.
"Ah! I almost forgot...we need to take your pictures, get your thumb prints. Standard procedure, promise." he says, smiling nervously. The room is plain and white with a camera on a stand, a table, and a single chair. He steps aside to usher them in, setting Blue into a seat first. He goes back, adjusts, and takes the photo. Blue jams in his thumb and gets up, rolling his eyes at Elm as he drops the the remote mistakenly. Red shares a quick grin with him and plops down into the chair, putting on his best fake picture smile. The flash goes off and he too jams his thumb into the pad, holding it for second then getting up and walking back out. Elm drops the remote again, and Red and Blue give each other a look.
"This guy is really jittery," whispers Red, turning his head to Blue, "is he always like this?"
Elm trips on the way out.
"Yes."
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Soon, they had reached the end of the hall, with a large LCD sign above the door that read "Testing Arena".
Testing...Arena? Red asked himself in his head, with a sudden jolt of realization. I wonder who I'm going to be facing...
As they went through that last set of doors, Elm moved to the side and stood patiently, looking down the hall to the right. There was another hall going to the left and right and a window in front of them where the Arena loomed ahead, fairly massive and clean, with a Poké Ball design painted onto the floor.
Then, a spattering of steps from the right. Red and Blue leaned over into the hall to look for the source of the sound, and found it.
Professor Oak, though aging thoroughly, has not lost his life yet. He was tall, strong, and walked with determination, though his knotted hands and flabby face gave the impression of a man who had entered retirement. Though his body was old, his eyes were bright and full of energy. He smiled and waved at them, stopping before them with his arms behind his back.
"Hello boys. How are you today? Ready to get your first Pokémon?" he asked, his smile cutting through his years.
"Yes sir," said Red, standing straight and proud. Blue followed similarly.
"Well, there is...a bit of a problem, you see...." he muttered, frowning. "We were supposed to receive their Poké Balls this morning, but, we've received a call that the shipment was hijacked...by Rocket. They stole the truck and the Pokémon. Fortunately, they left the drivers alive, thank goodness..."
Red and Blue's faces fell in a combination of disappointment and dread.
"Yes, yes, Rocket is getting more and more bold all the time...unfortunate. For my research too, these government applications are eating up all my time," he said, frustrated. "I didn't become a Pokémon Professor to help fight a war...but, I digress. I do still have two Pokémon, but it's all I have. You'll have to make due. Now, I don't want any hard feelings between you boys, so I'm not going to tell you what Pokémon is in there until you've chosen."
He held out two Poké Balls, saying, "Now boys, choose wisely. This Pokémon will doubtless be your partner for some time. Treat them with care if you want them to grow strong."
Red and Blue both looked at other, making faces.
"Sucks that we don't really get to choose, but I guess it's better than no Pokémon at all, right?" joked Red, nodding towards Oak. "Go ahead, you choose first, it's your birthday."
"It's your birthday too, you twit," he said, jabbing him, "but if that's how you want it..."
He took the first Poké Ball, as Red grabbed the second.
Red looked down at his happily. Yes! My first step to my new life, and this Pokémon will take me there!
Red glanced back up to Blue, who began tossing his lightly. "So, Gramps...who got what here?"
"You'll find out in a moment," laughed Professor Oak, motioning them to follow and turning to walk down the hall, "you're going to have your first battle together."
Red and Blue look at each other, surprised. A spark of intensity flew between them, choking the air, but slowly they relaxed and smiled at each other. They both grabbed their brand new Poké Balls and clipped them onto their special belts, as was custom.
"Time to see which of us is better then," said Red, "Let's go."
Blue nodded, chasing after him down the hall as they entered the stadium.
There were two sides to the stadium, and a place for each battler to stand. The orange floor was well taken care of and extremely reflective, reminding them of their presence with each step in the opposite direction. Professor Oak made his way across the stadium and up a set of stairs to a small glass booth where the examination table sits. Professor Elm walked in as well, taking a seat next to Oak at the examination chamber, pulling out pens and paper from their steel desks and writing down some basic information. Red and Blue stared each other down, both wondering the same thing. Which of us will win?
There's no way I'm going to win this. He's way better than I am, and I still don't know what my Pokémon is. I'm willing to bet that no matter what Blue has, he'll know exactly how to use it...I can only hope for some sort of advantage thought Red, all traces of a smile gone. This was his first battle. He knew the rules, he knew the many mechanics, but he didn't know if it would be enough.
Red might be tough. He's always been a slacker, but he thinks fast. I probably have a better idea of what I'm doing than he does, but he's got quick wits. Our first battle...not something I can say I was looking forward to. Oh what the heck, I'm lying.
"Now, the rules of this examination are very simple. This will be a one-on-one match with no time limit. The first battler to run out of Pokémon will be the loser. You may release your Pokémon at this time."
Red and Blue moved at almost the exact same time, grabbing their PokeBalls and holding them high in the air, holding the center button tight, then releasing them, rolling quickly and opening. A red flare shot out from the opening, assembling their Pokémon in front of their eyes.
"Battler Red has opened with a Psyduck!" announced Oak using the microphone in the booth, and indicating the Pokémon. It was small, barely up to Red's knees, yellow and round with a small tuft of black hair in the back of it's head. It wagged its tail vigorously and held its head as if suffering some sort of headache. It had a large bill and blank, confused eyes. It looked back at Red, cocking its head curiously, and regarded its new trainer.
Red looked at it, disappointed. He had read about Psyduck. They were prone to strong headaches and often were hindered by them. There goes my chances...
"And Battler Blue has opened with a Growlithe!" announced Oak, smiling. Once again, he indicated the Pokémon, which was now running around Blue and yapping playfully. It had an orange and black striped body with tufts of gold-tan fur and a cute puppy face. Suddenly, it noticed Red's Psyduck and growled menacingly, losing the cute face. Psyduck panics, taking a few steps back.
This is exactly the kind of advantage I needed. Growlithe is a Fire-type, so he's going to take a lot more damage from my attacks. I just have to land enough... thinks Red, concentrating hard to remember his studies.
Well... thought Blue, that's luck of the draw for ya...
"It seems there's some tension on the field..." noted Oak, "Very well. You may begin!"
"Go, Growlithe! Burn him out!" commanded Blue, the Growlithe instantly charging at Psyduck, firing ranged bursts of flame from his open mouth. Psyduck scattered, dodging flare bursts haphazardly. The flame jets dissipated as they hit the walls, which proved to be flame-retardent. Growlithe continued to confidently advance, launching fire at would-be escape routes, trying to corner him. He jumped about as he fired,, finally skidding to a halt where he thought he had cornered Psyduck. Finally, after the initial shock of the sudden start, Red began to call the shots.
"Psyduck, aim a Water Gun at him!" he ordered, pointing determinedly at the skidding Growlithe. Psyduck opened his mouth and sprayed a high-pressure blast of cool water, colliding instantly and swirling into steam with Growlithe's reaction, a burst of flame. The clouds of steam made it hard to see what was going on, wisping slowly through the air. Their silhouettes were barely visible.
"Psyduck! Scratch!" yelled Red, as the Pokémon rushed forward and placed a well-aimed blow across the Growlithe's cheek, knocking him against the orange tile floor harshly, then landed and shifted back a few feet, growling angrily.
Above, Oak and Elm both watched carefully as the battle unfolded, taking precise notes.
"Take Down!" called out Blue. Growlithe quickly nodded to affirm the command, and took a wider stance, suddenly rushing at Psyduck. In a wild tackle, he slammed into Psyduck, apparently hurting himself in the process. Psyduck went flying, bouncing off the reflective floor several times before landing at Red's feet.
"No, Psyduck...get up!" pleaded Red, crouching down to him, "Come on!"
Psyduck slowly got up, pretty bruised, but eyes slanting into new determination He pulled his arms back, narrowing his eyes. Red watched, surprised.
"Tackle him Growlithe!" ordered Blue, looking over the scene. His speed's not bad, but he's very confused. I don't think he'll be able to take a direct attack.
As the Growlithe skidded back from the force of the slam, he pounced at Psyduck, crashing him into the floor, leaving a small crack in the arena tile. Psyduck held his head in agony as he laid there, another stronger headache causing him not to resist. Growlithe pinned him down hard.
"Finish it off with Ember!" Blue shouted, standing firm, assured of his victory.
Growlithe pulled back his head, taking a deep breath. Flames began to swirl to life in his mouth...
Red panicked, yelling, "Water Gun, Scratch, Psyduck, do something!" to no response. He angrily held his head in his hand, ruffling his hair.
Wait...that's it! The headache! Psyduck has psychic powers intensified by headaches! he remembered, smirking suddenly.
Blue stepped back, sure that Red had a plan.
"Psyduck...use Confusion!"
Psyduck's eyes glowed bright blue, emanating a wispy teal aura. Growlithe stopped in mid-breath, seemingly frozen. Then, chaos. He jumped off of Psyduck, running in circles and firing flames randomly, his movements dizzy and uncoordinated. Psyduck got up, eyes no longer glowing. It seemingly was not even aware of what had just happened. He cocked his head again.
"Psy...?"
Red slapped a palm to his face, bringing it down across his face. Great. He doesn't know what he's doing at all. Hopefully he can carry out this one.
"Psyduck, end it with another Water Gun!" directed Red, making another gesture at the Growlithe tripping dizzily across the floor.
Obediently, Psyduck opened his mouth and launched another powerful jet of water, hitting Growlithe head on, who was forced back, spinning, and landed on his stomach. Slowly, he tried to get up, but collapsed, exhausted.
Red jumped and punched the air, whooping loudly. Psyduck looked pleased too, leaning back to fold his arms and smirk—but had his bravado interrupted by yet another headache.
Blue pulled his hair out of his eyes, drooping a bit. He did it! I never thought he would win. I don't even think he did. Wow.
"The battle goes to Red! Well done! Please, step outside and sit in the waiting room," said Professor Oak through the intercom, grinning widely. "We'll be with you with your rank and license shortly. Blue, stop at the Pokémon Center down the hall first. You too I think, Red. They'll need some healing. I suggest you return them to their Poké Balls."
Sighing in relief and surprise, Red crouched down again to his Psyduck, offering the Poké Ball.
Suddenly, Psyduck did something Red did not expect—he smacked the Poké Ball out of his hand.
"Professor Oak, what's...?"
"Some Pokémon do not like to stay inside of their PokeBalls. Some prefer staying out all the time," said Oak dismissively, continuing his fevered writing.
Red smiled. "Alright. As long as you're not trouble, you can stay out of the ball, okay?" said Red. Psyduck nodded happily, waddling over to him. Red then turns to Blue, who was kneeling over his Growlithe. "Hey Blue, is he, ya know, okay?"
"Yeah, he'll be alright. Just gotta get him to the Center here," he mumbled. "Great match. I had forgotten about Psyduck's extra abilities."
He held out his Poké Ball and opened it. Growlithe was sucked back in with the same red flare of light, and the ball closed. He hooked it onto his belt.
"That was a great battle Red. I thought I had it, but you surprised me. Great match, really," he said, offering a hand to Red. He took it and they shook firmly, as friends. Blue threw an arm around Red and they left together, the still confused Psyduck waddling behind them.
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At the Pokémon Center inside the lab, Red dropped off his Psyduck onto the center counter. He was instantly upset. Red sighed exasperatedly.. "So, what, do you want me to stay Psyduck?" he asked, as Blue grinned, handing his PokeBall to the nurse.
Psyduck nodded, stopping his tears.
"Alright...mind stayin' with me man?" asked Red as they take Psyduck and Growlithe back behind the counter area.
"Yeah, might as well. If the technology here is as advanced Gramps claims, it shouldn't take too long," he sighed, resting against the counter. He took in a deep breath and closed his eyes, thinking.
"Something wrong, Blue?" asked Red, turning his head to look at his friend.
"Not really,I just...I'm excited to finally start out, but, my family. I'm gonna miss them," he said, frowning, "It's not as easy to leave home...as I thought it would be, now that it's actually happening."
"Oh...yeah," said Red guiltily, remembering the morning's fight, "Well you know, my mom didn't want me to go. But I had to. There's nothing here for me. This place is a dead end."
"Well, maybe, but...at least you said your good-byes, right? I mean, you'll come home eventually..." he said, studying Red.
"Yeah...sure," said Red, looking down, the shadow of his brim hiding his eyes again. Deep inside, his memories of his family were eating away at his conscience, but he blocked it out, worried he might chicken out, give up.
Blue opened his mouth to say something, but is cut off by the arrival of the nurses. Psyduck was presented to the two, clean and yelping happily, into Red's open arms, who lets him down. Blue took his Poké Ball and ran it over in his hand, thinking.
"I wonder...if Growlithe likes being out too..." he thought aloud, then opened up the Poké Ball to let him out. Growlithe appeared as good as new, cheerily yapping and pawing at Blue's legs. He leans down, holding up the PokeBall. "Growlithe...would you rather stay inside the ball, or just follow me around? One shake for to stay out, two to go in," he asked, holding it out. The Pokémon pawed at his hand once. "Close enough. Out it is," he said, clipping the ball onto his belt. "Come on, let's go," he said, walking out of the room. Red followed, pushing his mother to very back of his mind.
They made their way back through the narrow hallways, through the Plexiglas door, and fell back into the chairs of the waiting room, leaning forward in silence.
Psyduck and Growlithe, no longer in a battle, got along well, jumping and playing,though Psyduck never seemed to remove his hands from his ever-aching head. Blue regarded them and laughed softly.
"They're our Pokémon...I guess they'll get along fine," he chuckled, then quieted, looking at Red, who was steeped in thought.
Oh god...I did so badly at controlling Psyduck...I really only won through my type advantage. It was mostly sloppy and badly coordinated. thought Red, holding his head in shame.
I didn't win, but I did a much better job of handling my Pokémon than Red, that's sure to give me some extra points mused Blue, absentmindedly petting Growlithe, who curled up in his lap.
Red looked at his pathetic Psyduck. He had already succumbed to another headache, holding his head in pain.
What am I going to do with him...?
The silence was broken by Professors Oak and Elm, who strolled in casually with two cards in hand. Oak stood in front of them, extending a card to each of them.
"This is an A Rank license. You are permitted to go anywhere in Kanto, and even have access to the various Gyms. You are free to challenge them as you wish, collect the Badges, and challenge the Elite Four for the title of Champion. And of course, the awards that come with it," he explained, beaming at both of them, "I'm so proud. Of both of you. I'm sure you'll do fine. And...I have a special favor to ask."
Red and Blue stood up, ecstatic.
"Sure Gramps, anything you want, right Red?" Blue asked, twisting his neck over to face him.
"Uh, yeah, sure!" agreed Red, looking over his license. I think I'd agree to just about anything today.
"In my youth, I was a Pokémon trainer too...I traveled all across the world, meeting all kinda of Pokémon, but...I had a dream. One that I was never able to realize at the time. To catch every kind of Pokémon in the world! That was my dream..." he sighed, looking upward. "But I got old, settled down. Things like this happen, in life. But, anyway...I invented a device, many years later, called," he says, reaching into his coat pockets, "a Pokédex."
He offered a device to each of them, a red machine resembling an electronic book. They opened them cautiously to examine them.
"This module records data on any Pokémon you see or catch. Simply open the device and point the sensors at the Pokémon you want to record. Catching a Pokémon will provide far more data than simply encountering a Pokémon in the wild, as my Pokédex can read data directly from a Pokeball. I have already loaded the data of your two Pokémon, so don't worry about recording them."
Red closed his Pokédex, regarding it for a moment, then looked at Oak thoughtfully.
"So, you want us to record the Pokémon we find for you, and when we've completed it, to bring it back?" he asked, holding it in his palm.
"Exactly, both of you. I know it's a lot to ask of you, but-"
"Nah, Gramps, it's no trouble. We'll do it, you can count on us," promised Blue, closing his own and pocketing it, "and I'll do it before Red can."
"Sure, whatever works for you," moaned Red, rolling his eyes. Blue ribs him, grinning.
"Alright boys. It's the beginning of a new day. And, lucky for you, the rain is finally gone!" said Oak, looking out the double glass doors. "Come here, Blue. Give your ol' Grandpa a hug," he said, locking his arms around his grandson. Red watched, uncomfortable once again. His Psyduck looked at him curiously. Blue's Growlithe, impatient, began pawing at his legs. He broke out of the hug and leaned down to ruffle Growlithe's mane, smiling.
"Ready to go Red?" he asked, motioning him as he slinged his backpack over his shoulder.
Red did the same, nodding. "Yeah, let's go."
They made their way through the doors, Psyduck and Growlithe following close behind.
The sun shines over the wet grassy fields, stretching out before them. Red can barely see his home, off in the distance. He stared at it for a moment, considered it, and decided to ignore it.
"There'll be plenty of time to come home and see her again..." Red thought aloud.
"Huh?"
"Oh...nothing, Blue."
They both made their way down the hill, Pokémon in tow, towards the road to Viridian City, the path ahead the first leg of their adventure.
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END CHAPTER 1
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