Pokemon : Rewind

In the week leading up to their departure, Ash devoted himself to refining his training plans, incorporating advice from Brock to maximize the growth of his Pokémon. 

Meanwhile, Tracey officially began his role as Professor Oak's assistant, diligently assisting with research while continuing to hone his observational skills.

Brock and Misty, after brief stays at their respective homes, had returned to Pallet Town the day before. The trio now prepared for the next chapter of their journey: the Johto Region.

---

Ash stood in the expansive backyard of Professor Oak's lab, his team gathered before him. His six Pokémon slots were precious, and he needed to make every choice count.

"Have you decided?" Brock asked, crossing his arms as he watched Ash's pensive expression.

"Almost," Ash replied, his gaze shifting between the Pokémon.

Three Pokémon were non-negotiable: Pikachu, Charizard, and Snorlax. Each had become a cornerstone of his team, embodying the strength and resilience they had inherited from the Three Legendary Pokémon.

Next, Ash considered Gyarados and Lapras. Both were at critical points in their training and would benefit greatly from the experience and battles awaiting them in Johto.

This left Ash with one final slot to fill. Two candidates stood out: Haunter and Beedrill.

Haunter, though powerful, had yet to evolve into Gengar. Ash saw potential in Haunter and believed that traveling together might provide the catalyst for its growth.

Beedrill, on the other hand, had reached a bottleneck in its training. Despite mastering advanced techniques like Aerial Ace and the Three-Stage Thrust, it had not yet perfected these moves. 

Beedrill's close relationship with Pidgeot, who had taught it these techniques, made Ash lean toward leaving it behind to continue its specialized training.

After consulting both Pokémon, the decision was clear. Haunter eagerly expressed a desire to join the journey, while Beedrill nodded in agreement, choosing to stay behind under Pidgeot's mentorship.

With his lineup finalized—Pikachu, Charizard, Snorlax, Gyarados, Lapras, and Haunter—Ash turned to his remaining Pokémon.

"I'm counting on you all to train hard while I'm away," Ash said, his voice filled with resolve. "We're a team, no matter where we are."

The Pokémon responded with enthusiastic cries, their loyalty and trust evident.

---

The following morning, Ash, Misty, and Brock gathered at the entrance of the Ketchum home. Delia, Professor Oak, and Tracey stood by to see them off.

"Be careful on your journey," Delia said, her worry barely concealed beneath her smile.

"Don't worry, Mom," Ash reassured her. "I'll stay out of trouble this time!"

Misty smirked. "I'll make sure of that."

"Thanks, Misty," Delia replied, clearly comforted by her presence.

Tracey stepped forward, offering his hand to Ash. "I wish I could join you, but I'll keep an eye on everything here. Good luck, Ash."

"We'll meet again," Ash promised, shaking Tracey's hand firmly.

Professor Oak approached, holding out the GS Ball. "Ash, remember to deliver this to Kurt in Azalea Town. If anyone can solve its mysteries, it's him."

"I won't forget, Professor," Ash replied, tucking the GS Ball safely into his bag.

"Oh, one more thing," Professor Oak said, rummaging through a bag. "I want you to take this with you."

The group watched curiously as Professor Oak unveiled a Pokéblock Maker.

"A Pokéblock Maker? Are you serious, Professor?" Ash exclaimed.

Professor Oak nodded. "It's a loan, not a gift," he clarified. "When you've saved enough, you can buy your own and return this one. But until then, use it to keep your team in top condition."

Ash's eyes gleamed with gratitude. "Thank you, Professor! This will make a huge difference."

Brock and Misty echoed their thanks, recognizing the machine's value.

---

As the group began their journey to Viridian City, Ash glanced back at his mother, Professor Oak, and Tracey one last time.

"Take care, Ash!" Delia called, waving until her son disappeared from view.

Watching him leave, Delia felt a familiar pang of worry, but also pride. Ash was no longer the inexperienced Trainer who had left Pallet Town for the first time. He was a rising star, ready to face whatever challenges awaited him in the Johto Region.

With their destination set, Ash, Misty, and Brock strode forward, their hearts full of anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead. The journey to Johto had officially begun.

__________________

Join my Patreon for more advance chapters