Taking the Poké Ball from Professor Oak, Ash felt a surge of excitement and determination. This was it—his first Pokémon, the beginning of his journey as a Trainer. Taking a deep breath, he threw the Poké Ball forward.
"Come on out, my buddy!"
The Poké Ball spun through the air, releasing a burst of white light before landing softly on the ground. The light took the shape of a small, four-legged Pokémon. As the glow faded, a familiar figure appeared.
"Pika?" The Pokémon's voice was curious as it glanced around, its large eyes scanning its surroundings.
The creature stood on its hind legs, its bright yellow fur gleaming under the lab's lights. Long ears with black tips, red cheek pouches, and a lightning bolt-shaped tail gave it a distinct and iconic look.
Ash's heart raced as he took in the sight of his new partner.
"Pikachu," he murmured, recognizing the Electric Mouse Pokémon from his studies.
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Pokémon Profile: Pikachu
Type: Electric
Category: Mouse Pokémon
Ability: Static (with a chance to paralyze attackers using physical moves); Hidden Ability: Lightning Rod
Characteristics: Wild yet intelligent, capable of forming deep bonds with its Trainer
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Achievement Unlocked: "Received an Earl Dervish Pokémon. Reward: One free lucky draw."
New Features Enabled: Achievements and Target Tasks.
The sudden mechanical voice echoed in Ash's mind, startling him. The system, he thought. Although unfamiliar with hearing it speak, Ash instinctively understood this was tied to his journey.
There wasn't time to dwell on it now. Pikachu was watching him warily, its sharp gaze assessing its new Trainer.
"Hello, Pikachu," Ash said, crouching down to meet its eyes. "I'm Ash, and from now on, we're partners. Let's work together and be friends."
Extending his hand cautiously, Ash prepared for the possibility of rejection—or worse, a shock.
"Wait, Ash!" Professor Oak exclaimed. "Don't—"
To Oak's astonishment, Pikachu didn't attack. Instead, it tilted its head curiously, studying Ash's hand. After a brief pause, Pikachu raised its tail and lightly tapped Ash's hand.
Ash smiled warmly. "Thanks, Pikachu. I know we're not close yet, but we'll get there."
Pikachu hesitated, then gave a small nod, turning away shyly. It could sense Ash's sincerity—something about him felt genuine and trustworthy.
Oak was stunned. "I don't believe it," he muttered. "Pikachu has never been this calm around anyone—not even me."
Ash grinned at the Professor. "So, does this mean I'm officially a Trainer now?"
Oak nodded, still marveling. "Yes, Ash, you are. And I have a feeling you and Pikachu will make an exceptional team."
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The Pokédex and Poké Balls
"Now, there's something else I need to give you," Oak said, regaining his composure. He retrieved a sleek red device and six Poké Balls from the table nearby.
"This is a Pokédex," he explained, handing it to Ash. "It's a portable Pokémon encyclopedia. It will identify Pokémon you encounter, store your Trainer information, and assist with League events. Treat it with care—it's an essential tool for every Trainer."
Ash accepted the Pokédex and the Poké Balls, nodding earnestly. "I will, Professor. Thanks!"
"One more thing," Oak added with a smile. "The Pokémon League has provided you a monthly stipend as compensation for an earlier mishap. You'll receive 3,000 yen per month for a year to support your journey."
Ash's jaw dropped. "Seriously?!"
"Yes," Oak confirmed. "The League planned for six months, but I decided to extend it myself."
"Wow," Ash said, overwhelmed. "Thank you so much, Professor!"
Oak chuckled. "No need to thank me, Ash. I believe in your potential. With hard work, you could go far—even as far as the Elite Four or the Championship."
Ash's determination soared. With Pikachu by his side and the monthly support, he felt ready to face any challenge.
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A Unique Bond
As Ash prepared to leave, he turned to Pikachu. "Do you want to go inside your Poké Ball?"
"Pika!" Pikachu shook its head vigorously, looking almost offended.
Ash laughed. "I figured you'd say that." He pocketed the Poké Ball and extended his arm. "How about riding on my shoulder instead?"
Pikachu hesitated briefly before jumping onto Ash's arm and climbing to his shoulder. The fit felt natural, as if Pikachu belonged there.
"Looks like you two are already getting along," Oak said with a smile.
Ash nodded. "Thanks for everything, Professor. I'll make you proud!"
With Pikachu perched confidently on his shoulder, Ash stepped out of the lab. His journey as a Pokémon Trainer had officially begun.
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