Chapter 1: The Beginning of a Legend
The morning sun spilled over Pallet Town, brushing golden light across the rooftops. Inside a small, cozy house, Kai Ketchum stirred awake. Unlike his younger brother, Ash, who often slept in past sunrise, Kai was already up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and stretching. Today wasn't just any day — it was the day his journey would begin.
Downstairs, the aroma of pancakes and eggs greeted him. His mom smiled warmly, setting a plate in front of him.
"You've grown so much, Kai… I'm going to miss you while you're away," she said softly.
Kai gave a small, reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Mom. I'll visit. And I'll come back with stories."
As he ate, a tiny voice piped up.
"Big bro! You're so lucky! I wish I could start my journey too!"
Kai looked up to see a 4-year-old Ash bouncing excitedly, eyes wide with admiration. Kai chuckled, ruffling his little brother's hair. "You'll get your turn soon enough, Ash. You'll be traveling and catching Pokémon in no time."
With breakfast finished, Kai slung his backpack over his shoulder and waved goodbye to Ash. "Be good while I'm gone, okay?"
---
Professor Oak's lab buzzed with activity when Kai arrived. Rows of Poké Balls gleamed on tables, and charts of Pokémon roamed the walls. Oak looked up from his work, eyes twinkling.
"Kai! Good to see you. I was wondering which starter you'd choose," Oak said, gesturing toward the three Pokémon waiting on the table.
Kai walked up confidently, hands behind his back. "I've already decided."
Without hesitation, he reached for the Poké Ball housing Charmander. The tiny fire lizard emerged, tail flickering with sparks, eyes glinting like molten gold.
"Charmander," Kai whispered, crouching to meet its gaze. "Together, we're going to turn the world upside down."
Oak handed him the Pokédex and a set of Poké Balls. "You've got everything you need, Kai. Remember, it's not just the Pokémon, but the bond and strategy that make a trainer great."
Kai nodded, a small grin tugging at his lips. "Understood. Thank you, Professor."
With that, he stepped outside, the morning breeze tousling his black, windswept hair. The road ahead stretched endlessly, full of wild Pokémon, challenges, and adventure.
He stopped on the outskirts of Viridian City and called Charmander out. The little fire Pokémon hopped onto his shoulder, tail burning bright with excitement.
"Charmander," Kai said softly, "I don't just want to be strong. I want to be the greatest trainer the world has ever seen. Are you ready to give everything you've got?"
Charmander let out a determined roar, sparks dancing around its claws.
Kai smiled, feeling a surge of confidence. "Good. Then let's begin. Together, we'll turn the world upside down."
With that, Kai set off, stepping onto the path that would one day make him a legend.