The Legend of Ash Ketchum

10. On Your Marks

It was a bright morning in Pallet town. Ash and Pikachu strolled through Professor Oak's ranch as they scouted for the elderly man in lab coat. Ash had two main agendas to discuss with him today. One was concerned with his Pokédex update, while the other was regarding his travel to Kalos. Though he had received all the necessary information during his plan three years ago, he wanted to confirm if there were any changes to that. He visited the lab a few minutes ago and found Daisy who directed him to a nearby pond.

As he paced towards the said location, Ash spotted the professor and Gary from a distance. By the look of it, the grandfather and grandson were involved in a heated debate.

"Forget it, gramps, but I am not working under that maniac."

"Mind your words, Gary. Professor Sycamore is not a maniac. He is probably the most talented researcher there is. You should address him with a little more respect."

"The same respect he gets from everyone? Do you realize he spent the last four years doing nothing? He even gave up on his mega evolution research, and that was one hell of a bomb. If not a maniac, then what is he?"

"He did that because he believed in something bigger, son. Something more important."

"Yeah, the same thing which made him a laughing stock. The other professors mock him, gramps, I don't want to be treated the same."

"It's only the young and inexperienced fools who do that. Name one distinguished professor or researcher who belittles him."

"Hello, Professor. Hey, Gary," Ash said with a reluctant wave of his hand.

Both Oaks paused their conversation and turned towards Ash.

"Hey, Ash-boy," Gary said. From the likes of his voice, Ash could discern the suppressed annoyance in him.

"Ash, my boy," the professor said. "I am glad you came. It's about your Pokédex I am assuming."

"Yes, Professor. You were busy yesterday evening. I didn't want to disturb you then, so could you do it today?" Ash asked. "I also wanted to know if you could book me a ticket to Kalos for next week. I hope the circuit registrations are still open."

"Yes, of course. I'll book yours along with Gary's," the professor said. "Don't you worry, there is plenty of time to register for this year's league."

"Gary is coming too?" Ash exclaimed. Maybe the debate was regarding that. "Alright! That's awesome." He punched the air in excitement.

"No, I am not," Gary said with a sharp tone. "You can go alone." He crossed his arms.

"We already talked about this, Gary. You are going and that's final." The professor glared. He was a little too angry for his usual calm attitude.

"Hump," Gary gritted his teeth and balled his fist "Alright, gramps. I'll give it one week, but if I don't find it useful, I'll be back the next minute, deal?"

"That's all I ask of," the professor said with a nod. "I am glad that you are willing to give it a try. Now, please excuse me while I go and make the necessary arrangements." He turned towards Ash. "I will need your Pokédex." He extended his hand towards the raven trainer.

"Thanks, Professor," Ash said. He took his Pokédex out and handed it to him.

"You can collect it back in the evening, Ash." The professor left, leaving the two friends to catch up.

"I wonder when I'll be able to refuse to gramps." Gary exhaled in defeat.

"He wants the best for you, you know."