In Professor Sycamore's lab, it was now time for Serena to choose her first pokemon. She crouched down, her eyes fixed warmly on Fennekin. "I think I already know who I want," she said softly. The fire fox lifted its head with a smug yip, tail swishing proudly.
"Fennekin," Serena declared, "will you go on a journey with me?"
Chespin froze mid-bounce. His little shoulders sagged, and his face crumpled in disappointment. He kicked a pebble across the courtyard with a pout, watching Serena lift Fennekin into her arms as the others cheered.
Before anyone could comfort Chespin, a sudden burst of frubbles struck Ash across the face.
"Wha?!" Ash staggered back, peeling the sticky bubbles from his cheeks. He looked up to see Froakie land nimbly in front of him. The Water-type rolled a Poké Ball across the ground with deliberate care, stopping at Ash's feet.
"Froakie..." Ash breathed.
Everyone froze. Then, slowly, a smile spread across Professor Sycamore's face. "Marvellous! Froakie is choosing you, Ash!"
Ash knelt down, eyes shining. "You really mean it? You want to come with me?"
Froakie gave a firm nod, his frubbles bubbling as if in agreement. Ash's hand tightened around the Poké Ball. "Then... let's do this together!" He put the pokeball forward like giving a fist bump, and Froakie responded with one, and then vanished inside with a flash. The ball clicked shut.
Cheers broke out again, this time from Serena, Clemont and Bonnie, though Chespin's face fell even further. He slumped onto the ground, ears drooping miserably.
"Aww, Chespin..." Bonnie hurried to his side, patting his head. "Don't be sad!" Her eyes darted quickly between Clemont, Professor Sycamore, and Chespin's big, hopeful eyes. Finally, she clasped her hands together. "I know! Professor! Professor! Please—let me become Chespin's trainer!"
Clemont's eyes widened. "Bonnie! You're not old enough to—"
"I know I'm not," Bonnie interrupted, her voice trembling but determined. "But if I can take care of Chespin during our journey, then I can learn to be a good trainer by the time I'm old enough. Please! I really want to try!"
Chespin perked up, his whole body trembling with hope.
Professor Sycamore adjusted his glasses thoughtfully. "Hmm. Clemont, what do you think?"
Clemont flinched. "I—well—she's far too young—"
The Professor raised a hand. "Perhaps you could act as Chespin's official trainer. That way, Bonnie can care for Chespin under your supervision until she comes of age. A good compromise, don't you think?"
Clemont sighed, but the small smile tugging at Bonnie's lips melted his resistance. "All right... but only if you promise to listen to me and take this seriously."
"I promise!" Bonnie chirped. She whirled to Chespin. "Did you hear that? You're coming with us!"
Chespin bounced into the air, spinning with joy before diving straight into Bonnie's arms. "Ches-pin!"
Everyone laughed at the sight, and for the first time, all three starters had found their new partners.
Professor Sycamore presented Ash and Serena with sleek red Pokédexes. "These will be invaluable to your journey. Take care of them—and your Pokémon."
Ash held his up with pride, Serena clutching hers close to her chest. Clemont helped Bonnie tuck Chespin's Poké Ball safely into his pocket. And together, the new group set out from the lab.
[Line Break]
The fountain in front of the Lumiose Pokémon Centre sparkled in the sunlight. Bonnie skipped circles around it, Chespin clinging happily to her shoulder. "We're really going on a journey! We're really doing it!" she sang.
Ash's fists clenched with excitement. "First thing's first! I want to register for the Kalos League!"
Serena pointed to the Centre. "You can register inside. Come on."
Bonnie tugged on Ash's hand, urging him to run faster. Clemont jogged after them with a sigh. "The Pokémon Centre isn't going anywhere, Bonnie. Ash will get registered, don't worry."
But Bonnie was already charging ahead, dragging the group with her. Clemont slowed near the fountain and let himself fall behind for a moment. His gaze lingered on Prism Tower in the distance. He remembered the sight of Ash and Serena climbing higher, facing Garchomp without fear. His own fists clenched, a flicker of longing in his chest. If only I could be as brave as them...
Inside the Pokémon Centre, Ash approached the counter where Nurse Joy greeted him with her usual warm smile. A Wigglytuff waddled up beside her, puffing out its chest proudly.
"I'd like to register for the Kalos League," Ash said firmly.
"Of course," Nurse Joy replied. "Let's get you set up." She handed over a form, scanned Ash's Pokédex, and then Wigglytuff bounced forward, carrying a shiny new badge case. It handed it over with a cheerful "Wiggly!"
"Thanks, Wigglytuff!" Ash said, grinning as he tucked the case into his bag.
Ash walked back from the counter, flipping the new badge case open and shut in his hand. Serena was waiting for him near the seating area, Fennekin curled neatly at her feet.
"Well?" she asked softly.
Ash grinned, holding the badge case up. "I'm officially registered! From here on out, I'll battle my way across Kalos until I reach the League!"
Serena tilted her head, smiling at the fire in his voice. "You sound so sure of yourself."
"I have to be," Ash said, settling into the seat beside her. His eyes gleamed with determination. "I want to become a Pokémon Master. That's why I keep traveling! Different regions, new Pokémon, new friends. Every journey teaches me something, and every step gets me closer to that dream." He clenched the badge case tightly, his voice unwavering. "This time, I'll give it everything I've got."
Serena's chest warmed at his words. She clasped her hands together and leaned forward slightly. "Then I'll cheer you on every step of the way. I'll support you, Ash! No matter what. We'll make your dream come true."
Ash blinked, caught off guard by her earnestness. A small, grateful smile curved on his lips. "Thanks, Serena."
For a moment, they just sat there in silence. Then, almost at the same time, they both blurted out:
"Do you remember me?"
They froze, staring at each other before laughing. Ash scratched his cheek sheepishly. "So... you really are the straw hat girl, huh?"
Serena's blue eyes softened, her lips curling into a smile as she gave a tiny nod. "And you're the boy who helped me when I fell."
Ash chuckled warmly, then tilted his head. "Funny how we ended up here, huh?"
Serena's gaze grew distant for a second. "Back then, I never thought I'd meet you again. But... maybe it's fate."
Ash blinked at her words, a little embarrassed, but quickly cleared his throat. "Well, if fate brought us here, then let's make the most of it!"
Encouraged, he turned the question back on her. "What about you, Serena? What's your dream?"
Her smile wavered. "I... don't really know yet." She reached down to stroke Fennekin's fur, her gaze dropping to the floor. "When my mom started pressuring me to become a Rhyhorn racer, I... ran away. I joined Professor Sycamore's lab instead. I thought maybe I'd figure something out here."
She lifted her eyes again, softer now, more vulnerable. "I still don't know what I want. But I do know this: after spending so much time caring for the Pokémon in the lab, I want to bring smiles to the faces of Pokémon and people alike. However I end up doing it, that's the path I want to follow."
Ash studied her for a moment, then grinned, his voice full of conviction. "Then I'll support you, Serena. All the way. Just like you'll support me."
Her eyes widened slightly at his words, a soft pink rising to her cheeks. She opened her mouth to respond until—Bonnie suddenly popped up between them with a mischievous grin, making both of them jump. "Heeey, what are you two smiling about, huh? You're acting all weird!"
Serena flinched and quickly looked away, while Ash rubbed the back of his neck, laughing nervously. "It's not like that! We were just talking!"
Bonnie giggled, unconvinced, while Clemont followed behind her with a sigh.
[Line Break]
The late morning sun filtered through the trees as the group made their way along the forest path toward Santalune City. Bonnie led the way, skipping cheerfully with her usual boundless energy.
Ash walked close behind, Pikachu perched firmly on his shoulder while Froakie padded silently at his side. Gabite rested in its Poké Ball for now, and Serena trailed nearby with Fennekin's Poké Ball clipped securely at her waist.
Atop Clemont's head, a small orange figure stirred. Dedenne had clambered up a tree, tugging stubbornly at a ripe berry. The tiny Antenna Pokémon squeaked, pulled, and tugged again—until finally the berry snapped loose.
Unfortunately, gravity did the rest.
Bonk!
"Ah! Ow!" Bonnie yelped as the berry smacked her right in the forehead. She froze, blinking in confusion, while the others stopped in their tracks.
"Bonnie, are you okay?" Clemont asked quickly, leaning down to check her.
"Yeah, but, where did that even come from?" Ash muttered, looking up at the branches.
That's when the bushes rustled. Out popped the culprit—Dedenne.
"De-denne!" it squeaked, scampering forward.
Pikachu leapt down, blocking its path with a sharp "Pika!" Sparks danced across his cheeks. Dedenne responded in kind, a small zap flickering from its whiskers. For a moment, the two electric-types stood perfectly still, trading sharp, rapid pulses of energy.
Ash tilted his head. "Uh... what are they doing?"
Clemont adjusted his glasses. "They're communicating! Electric-type Pokémon can exchange signals through their currents. It's like their own secret language."
Serena, fascinated, slipped her Pokédex from her bag and pointed it toward the newcomer.
"Dedenne, the Antenna Pokémon. It connects with other Pokémon using its whiskers, which transmit electrical signals."
Bonnie gasped in delight. "Ohhh! It's so cute! I want to catch it!"
She crouched down, scooping up the berry that had betrayed her earlier. Holding it out, she cooed, "Here, Dedenne. Do you want this?"
Dedenne sniffed the air nervously, inching closer. Its little nose twitched as it leaned toward the berry
FWIP!
A sudden blur swooped down from above, snatching the berry right out of Bonnie's hand.
"Hey!" Bonnie cried indignantly, stomping her foot.
The group looked up to see a small bird Pokémon circling smugly overhead.
Ash's eyes widened. "Whoa! What was that?"
Serena rubbed her forehead, wincing at the phantom sting of old memories. "That's a Fletchling." She stated. 'Just as smug as my mom's Fletchling!'
Fletchling chirped triumphantly, tossing the berry into the air before swallowing it whole. Then it let out a mocking cry, wings flaring.
Ash pointed his Pokédex.
"Fletchling, the Tiny Robin Pokémon. Despite its compact size, its powerful voice and territorial nature make it a relentless opponent."
Down below, Dedenne's little face crumpled. It let out a miserable squeak, tears welling, before bolting into the forest.
"Dedenne, wait!" Bonnie shouted, chasing after it.
Clemont adjusted his backpack straps and hurried after her. "I'll go too! Don't worry, we'll catch up!"
That left Ash and Serena standing together as Fletchling circled overhead.
Serena clenched her fists. "I'll catch this one." Her eyes blazed with determination.
Ash smiled. "Alright. I'll back you up."
He turned to Froakie, who was already crouched low, eyes locked on Fletchling. But instead of jumping in, Froakie froze, noticing the intensity in Serena's gaze. After a beat, he stepped back, leaving her to take the lead.
Serena unclipped her Poké Ball. "Fennekin, I choose you!"
With a flash, the Fox Pokémon appeared, letting out a sharp cry.
Ash nodded. "Pikachu, Froakie—help her out!"
Pikachu bounded forward, cheeks sparking, while Froakie sprang to the branches above.
"Froakie, use your frubbles!" Ash commanded.
Froakie leapt and flung sticky bubbles through the air, but Fletchling darted nimbly, wings slicing between them.
"Fennekin, Ember!" Serena called.
Her starter exhaled a stream of glowing sparks, but Fletchling weaved effortlessly, leaving trails of feathers in its wake.
Froakie, acting on instinct, ignored Serena's coordination and lunged on its own. The bird countered swiftly with Double Team, images splitting into four, and then struck with a lightning-fast Peck. Froakie cried out, knocked from midair—
"Ash!" Serena gasped.
Ash dove forward, catching Froakie against his chest. The Water-type panted, glaring stubbornly toward the sky.
Ash smiled gently. "I get it. You're battling because Fletchling made Bonnie cry, right?"
Froakie blinked, then nodded once.
"Alright then. Let's work together this time!"
The battle reignited. Froakie combined Water Pulse with frubbles, launching waves that distorted Fletchling's flight path. Meanwhile, Serena directed Fennekin to time her Embers carefully, peppering the sky until the bird squawked in annoyance.
But still, Fletchling's mobility was too great. Ash thought quickly.
"Froakie, fall back!" he ordered.
Froakie darted to cover, while Fennekin kept the pressure with Ember volleys. Then, with a single bound, Froakie launched skyward again—this time carrying Fennekin on his back. From above, they coordinated perfectly, striking from different angles.
Fletchling spotted them and dived in with another Peck—only to pierce straight through a false image made from Froakie's frubbles.
"Now, Fennekin!" Serena cried.
Fennekin fired one last Ember, singeing the bird's wings, then lunged forward with Scratch. The Tiny Robin Pokémon shrieked as it spiraled toward the ground.
Serena seized the moment. "Poké Ball, go!"
The ball struck Fletchling, pulling it inside. It rocked once... twice... thrice... ding!
Serena's heart leapt. "Yes!" She hurried forward, scooping up the ball. "I caught Fletchling!"
She then brought the tiny robin pokemon out and crouched down to its level. "Fletchling, what you did to Dedenne, that was mean. You don't have to steal food anymore okay?"
Fletchling puffed its chest with a smug chirp, but Serena crouched beside it, smiling warmly. "You're part of the team now. Let's do our best together."
[Line Break]
Pikachu's ears twitched, his cheeks sparking softly. He tugged at Clemont's sleeve, then pointed his tail in the direction Dedenne had run.
"Pikachu thinks he knows where Dedenne went," Clemont said quickly, adjusting his glasses.
Bonnie jumped excitedly and followed Pikachu with surprising agility. "What are you waiting for Clemont? Let's hurry up!"
The inventor and his little sister slipped into the trees with Pikachu leading the way, until the faint sound of sniffling led them to a small clearing. There, curled up beside a mossy rock, was Dedenne, still trembling after losing its berry.
Bonnie crouched down and held her hands out. "It's okay, Dedenne... I just want to be your friend."
But Dedenne's whiskers sparked and it lashed out with a tiny Nuzzle, sparks snapping across the grass. Bonnie flinched, but Clemont stepped forward, calm and steady.
"That was Nuzzle. It may look cute, but it causes paralysis by sending out small electrical shocks. If you want to catch Dedenne, Bonnie, you'll need to battle first."
Bonnie puffed out her cheeks, then nodded. "Alright! Chespin, let's go!"
Chespin leapt forward with a cheerful cry, ready for battle. Pikachu stayed to the side, letting his tail spark—communicating encouragement in little bursts of electricity toward Dedenne.
The battle began. Dedenne skittered across the ground, surprisingly fast, and let loose a jolt of electricity.
"Chespin, dodge and use Vine Whip!" Bonnie called.
Chespin whipped out two vines, lashing them toward Dedenne. The Antenna Pokémon squeaked and darted away, but one vine caught it across the back, spinning it around.
Dedenne retaliated with a glowing charge of energy, Charge Beam. The attack zapped into Chespin, making him stagger.
"Don't panic!" Clemont coached. "That's Charge Beam—it can raise Dedenne's Special Attack if it lands. Counter with Pin Missile at long range!"
"Pin Missile, now!" Bonnie echoed, throwing her hand forward.
Chespin braced himself and fired a flurry of glowing darts. They scattered across the clearing, clipping Dedenne and sending it tumbling backwards.
Just as it looked like Dedenne might get up, the ground crumbled beneath it, and with a squeak it slipped down into a shallow stream.
"Dedenne!" Bonnie cried, throwing herself in after it. The water splashed high as she scooped the tiny Pokémon into her arms. But the current tugged her along.
"Bonnie!" Clemont shouted.
Chespin acted fast, snapping out two vines to wrap around Bonnie's waist. With a grunt, he pulled her back to shore, dripping wet but still clutching Dedenne.
The Pokémon was unconscious, its sparks dim. Bonnie shook it gently. "Please, wake up!"
"The Future is now thanks to Science! Clemontic Gear On!" Clemont adjusted his glasses, determination flashing. "I have just the thing!" He pulled out a strange device—two prongs connected to a humming coil. "This Static Energy Stimulator should help Dedenne recharge!"
Bonnie held Dedenne close as Clemont pressed the device near its whiskers. Sparks jumped, and slowly Dedenne's ears twitched. It let out a faint squeak as its cheeks lit up again—just as Clemont's invention began to spark wildly.
"Uh-oh." Clemont fumbled for a switch—only to snap it clean off.
The machine erupted in a comical boom, smoke and soot covering Clemont from head to toe. His glasses slid down his nose as he sighed. "Back to the drawing board..."
Bonnie gave an exasperated sigh, hands on her hips. "It's always the same with you, Clemont!"
But before Clemont could reply, Dedenne perked up, its whiskers crackling softly. Pikachu padded forward, cheeks sparking gently as if speaking in its own language. Tiny arcs of electricity danced between Pikachu and Dedenne like a conversation. Finally, Pikachu turned, smiling, and nodded at Bonnie.
"It says..." Clemont interpreted, "...that Dedenne wants to come with us."
Bonnie's eyes lit up like stars. "Really?!"
Clemont reached into his pocket and pressed a Poké Ball into her hands. "Then why don't you do the honors, Bonnie?"
She nodded, holding it out with trembling excitement. "Dedenne—be my partner!" She tapped the ball gently against its forehead, and in a flash of red light, Dedenne was drawn inside. The ball clicked once... twice... and then chimed with a bright ding.
Bonnie squealed with joy, hugging the Poké Ball tight. "I did it! I caught Dedenne!"
Chespin danced around her happily, and even Clemont managed a proud smile through his soot-covered face.
[Line Break]
As the two groups came together, Serena had Fletchling perched proudly on her arm, its feathers still ruffled from the battle, while Bonnie had Dedenne nestled against her cheek, the little mouse happily sparking in contentment.
Ash pumped his fist. "Awesome! Now everyone's got new partners!"
Pikachu squeaked in agreement, Froakie folded his arms with a quiet nod, and Chespin leapt up and down, clearly proud of the role he'd played.
Serena glanced between her Fennekin and Fletchling, her eyes shining. "It feels so strange... just yesterday I wasn't even sure what path I wanted. But now, with Fennekin and Fletchling by my side... I think I'm starting to figure it out."
Ash grinned, hands behind his head. "That's what traveling does! You meet new Pokémon, make new friends, and little by little—you find out what's really important to you."
Bonnie spun in a circle, holding Dedenne high in the air. "And I finally have my very first Pokémon partner! And? I actually caught it!"
Clemont adjusted his glasses, still a bit sooty from his latest failed invention, but smiling warmly nonetheless. "It was amazing Bonnie. And you did wonderfully." He placed a hand on her shoulder. "I'll hold on to them, and as soon as you're old enough to become a pokemon trainer I'll transfer Chespin and Dedenne back to you!"
Bonnie giggled. "That's good enough for me!" Dedenne squeaked in happy agreement, cheeks sparking as it exchanged another playful current with Pikachu.
Ash looked down the path stretching toward Santalune City. His badge case gleamed in his hand. "The first step's always the hardest, but I know I can do it this time. Santalune Gym... here I come!"
Serena smiled softly at him. "And we'll be cheering you on."
The group set off once more, the road stretching out before them toward Santalune City. The air was filled with laughter and chatter—Bonnie teasing Chespin with promises of snacks, Serena trying to keep Fletchling from tugging at her ribbon, Clemont tinkering with his Aipom Arm as they walked, and Ash charging ahead, brimming with energy.
Behind them, in the distance, Prism Tower gleamed in the afternoon light. Clemont turned to glance at it one last time. If only I could have the same courage as Ash and Serena, he thought. Maybe one day...
The breeze picked up, rustling the trees as the sun began to dip toward the horizon. Their first steps as a true traveling team had been taken. With new bonds formed, and new dreams waiting just ahead, their journey in Kalos had only just begun.
AS THE JOURNEY CONTINUES!