Fic: Where The Wind Blows
Verse: Bound by Destiny 6/? [MASTER POST]
Chapter Title: WHERE THE WIND BLOWS
Author: clover71
Fandom: Pokémon (Anime)
Pairing: Paul/ Ash (Comashipping); a hint of Drew/ May (AdvanceShipping)
Characters: Paul, Ash, Delia, Mr. Mime, Tracey, May, Max, Brock, Dawn, Barry, Drew, Misty, Gary Oak, Professor Oak, Charizard, Infernape, Gible, Gliscor, Snivy
Rating: PG-13 (for swearing)
Description: Written for love_bingo Round 2, for the square prompt, 'introduction to the family'
Word Count: 3,600+
Chapter Summary: After winning the Kanto Battle Frontier, Paul finds himself on a trek to his former rival's hometown, unmindful that the moment he arrives in Pallet Town, he's likewise stepping into Ash's world.
Disclaimer: This is only fan fiction and written for non-profitable purpose. Pokémon and its characters are owned by its creator, Satoshi Tajiri, and its media franchise is owned by Nintendo.
Author's Note(s):
- I don't exactly know the rules when it comes to challenging the Battle Frontier but since Reggie has been revealed to win six symbols from the Kanto Battle Frontier, I figured Paul can walk the same path but will win all symbols in the end.
- I know Gliscor's whereabouts isn't clear since it was never mentioned at the end of the DP series whether he returned to the Air Battle Master or went with Ash to Kanto. But I'd like to believe he's at Professor Oak's lab with Ash's other Pokémon. And also, it should be obvious by now that I miss Infernape
- Not sure if Snivy will evolve before the end of the Best Wishes 2 series, so I just kept her as Snivy here.
- If you'll notice that most chapters end with Paul leaving or walking away, it's because the original summary for this is 'how many times does Ash have to say goodbye before Paul will say that he's here to stay' so the plot outlines are stuck on that idea.
- The title of this chapter comes from the lyrics of 'I Will Be With You' - a theme from the movie "The Rise of Darkrai'
My Love Bingo card
*the images used for this banner are screen captures from episode 6 of Diamond and Pearl (s10) and episode 34 of Sinnoh League Victors (s13)
Paul plants his feet firmly on top of the hill overlooking a wide expanse of land where a village is nestled. His eyes travel along the road that leads to the cluster of houses with fenced gardens and the sight triggers an internal debate: should he proceed or should he turn the other way and never look back?
He's not even sure why he's here. He should be heading back home to Sinnoh or wherever he should take his journey next. But no. He's here. In Pallet Town of all places.
Ash is probably not home, probably still in Unova or some other region. But somehow Paul can feel Ash's presence, knows Ash is back in his hometown. It's strange that he can practically sense Ash like he's some Mightyena following the scent of his prey. Much as he wants to ignore it, he's pretty much aware that there's this strong connection serving as a bridge between him and his former rival.
Cynthia's words begin to swim in his head. When every life meets another life, something will be born. He didn't pay much heed to that phrase before but now he wonders what that something is. The only thing he knows is that ever since he met Ash, his world began spinning out of its axis.
The town seems to lure him in so he shoves his qualms aside and marches down the road - aimlessly at first because he has no idea where Ash lives exactly.
When he finds an elderly couple out in their garden, he approaches with cautious strides, figures that asking for directions won't kill his pride. He ends up getting the most confusing direction he has ever heard in his entire life though.
It's a good thing the town isn't too big so it doesn't take long until he comes to a stop in front of a small house with a white picket fence.
A woman holding a large baking dish saunters out and Paul instantly recognizes her as Ash's mother. She looks exactly like she did on the video phone when Paul called Ash a year ago. Or has it been more than a year already? The smell of spaghetti sauce and melted cheese hits Paul's nose when she strolls up to the gate, her eyes fixed on him.
"You look familiar," she says, casting him a warm, congenial smile. "You're Paul from Veilstone, right? I have your match with my Ash in the Sinnoh League on record and Ash always watches it whenever he's home."
Paul's not sure how to react to that, doesn't really know if that little revelation is supposed to mean anything so he just nods at her awkwardly.
"Well Ash is up at Professor Oak's lab right now with some of his friends. I'm on my way to bring them food. They're having a picnic so you just arrived in time." She glances back at the house and hollers, "Mimey! Time to go," then a Mr. Mime soon comes bounding out of the house with several food containers balancing on its hands.
The professor's laboratory and residence is just a couple of blocks away. Mr. Mime chimes, "Mime, mime. Mr. Mime," as soon as they step inside the large house and a guy wearing a silly-looking red headband stumbles into the hallway.
"Oh. Mrs. Ketchum, Mr. Mime. Ash, the professor and the others are out at the back lawn," he says and it's only when he shifts to face them that Paul notices the Gible he's cradling in his arms. "I'm just going to put this little one inside. He almost gobbled up the cake May brought with her."
Soft laughter ripples out of Mrs. Ketchum. "Ash's Gible sure is a naughty one. I'll go bring these dishes outside then." She barely takes a step when she stops abruptly and says, "My, my. Where are my manners? Tracey, this is Paul. He's Ash's friend from Sinnoh," her head tilting slightly toward Paul.
Friend?
"Hi Paul," the guy with the red headband says in a raspy voice.
Paul keeps his expression neutral and gives the other guy a terse bob of the head to acknowledge him before following Mrs. Ketchum through what he presumes is the back door.
Seeing the handful of people milling around the picnic table gives Paul a sense of foreboding. He doesn't do well with crowds, no matter how small or big they are. Socializing is a talent he, unfortunately, does not possess. But he politely follows Mrs. Ketchum who introduces him to the group.
"It's nice to finally meet you young man," Professor Oak says, clutching Paul's hand in a firm handshake. "Ash talked a lot about you when he was traveling throughout Sinnoh."
"Oh," is the dumbest, lamest reaction Paul can deliver. To a renowned professor, no less.
Speaking of Ash… Paul realizes his former rival isn't among the group. His gaze strays around the area and he finds Ash running across the field with Gliscor hovering above him. It's Gliscor who spots Paul first and it makes a sound, probably to alert Ash of Paul's presence.
"Paul!" Ash sprints over to him and for a moment, Paul thinks Ash is going to throw his arms around him but Ash comes to a grinding halt at arms length. "Hey Paul, this is quite a surprise. What brings you to Pallet?"
I honestly don't know. "Well, since I'm in the region, thought I'd drop by and see if you were around." Oh, that's great, Paul thinks and grumbles mentally, might as well tell Ash how he'd been in Paul's mind all these months.
"So did you challenge the Kanto Battle Frontier?"
"Yeah." Paul is not one to flaunt because he never finds the need to, so he just shrugs and says, "I got all symbols."
***
It turns out that they're celebrating Ash's fifteenth birthday even if it's a week away. Mrs. Ketchum explains that most of Ash's friends are on a mutual break so they all have agreed to travel to Pallet for the occasion.
"Why don't you show Paul around while we're waiting for Brock and Dawn?" she told Ash and watching her dote on her son gives Paul a clear understanding why Ash is Ash.
Paul is supposed to say it's not necessary, that he's actually just passing through and will have to leave soon but the eagerness thrumming off of Ash is too damn contagious. It's absurd, he knows, but he follows Ash without question through the open field. This girl they call May and her annoying brother with a big mouth joins them, claiming that they both want to see how Ash's Pokémon are doing.
"So you won the whole Battle Frontier. Wow." Ash has this look on his face - between awe and bliss. "That means you're a Frontier Brain now."
Something akin to pride inflates in Paul's chest but he squashes it promptly and maintains nonchalance when he says, "Yeah, guess so."
"Just like Ash. That's awesome, Paul," May says, her voice grating at Paul's nerves somehow.
They - all three of them - smother Paul with praises that nearly chokes him if it isn't for Infernape, who appears in front of them, stealing all the attention.
The fire type greets Paul with a raised fist and utters, "Infernape," in a confrontational way.
The corners of Paul's mouth curl up and the Pokémon mirrors the gesture. "It's been quite a while, hasn't it, Infernape?"
Infernape gives a firm nod then scampers away and chases after a group of Sandshrew. The Pokémon - once Paul's as a Chimchar - looks happy - happier even, Paul thinks.
"Yes he does," Ash mutters, which… and Paul realizes he has spoken his thoughts out loud, wants to smack himself thinking how stupid he must have sounded.
Ash doesn't seem to think so. He dons his branded happy face that once made Paul want to throw something at him, but seeing it now makes Paul's heart bloat.
May's brother ambles ahead, vocally challenging his sister to a battle, and as soon as they're at a distance, awkwardness curls around Ash and Paul.
"Come, Paul." Ash grabs his arm and starts to drag him towards a variety of Pokémon scattered near a huge tree. "I want you to meet my friends."
Paul has seen most of Ash's Pokémon - those he used during the Sinnoh League. Even he must admit that Ash has done a pretty swell job training most - if not all - of those he had seen in action.
It's only when a Bayleef steals Ash's attention that Ash releases his arm but the touch leaves tingles skipping on his skin. Then Ash peers up at Paul through his dark eyelashes, says, "Why don't you let your Pokémon out of their Poké Balls, Paul? Maybe they'd like to roam around," with an earnest look that Paul's stoic disposition cracks.
"Are you sure it's okay?" leaks out of Paul's mouth instead of no thanks, they don't need to.
"Of course. The professor loves to have lots of Pokémon around. And I'm sure Tracey would love to observe them." Ash's eyes are directed somewhere behind Paul and when Paul looks over his shoulder, he sees the guy with the red headband approaching. "He makes excellent sketches of Pokémon."
It seems pointless to oppose Ash's suggestion, regardless of how lame Paul thinks it is, so Paul releases his six Pokémon and it doesn't take long before they're all trampling around the premises.
"Where's your Beartic?" Ash asks.
"With Reggie." Paul steals a glance at Tracey's sketchpad and sees that he's working on a sketch of Weavile. "I used it against the Battle Tower and it did prove to be such a powerhouse. But we lost so I had to request for a rematch. A bit more training and I can turn that Beartic into an unstoppable force."
A slight curve appears on Ash's lips. "I'm sure you'll do a great job training it. You know I had to battle Anabel twice too."
Paul jumps back a little when an apple appears in front of him then belatedly notices the thin vine holding it up. His gaze drops on a small green creature and he's quick to recognize it as Ash's Snivy - the one he met when he went to see Ash in Unova. He takes the fruit, ponders on whether he should pat the Pokémon on its head but decides against it.
"I think Snivy likes you," Ash says and his mouth opens as if to say something else but the strident roar distracts him. His eyes dart over to the sky, prompting Paul to do the same.
A blotch of orange is descending at an incredible speed. When at a considerable distance, Paul is able to identify the figure as a Pokémon. He barely manages to rack through his brain for the name when Ash yells, "Charizard!"
The large dragon-like Pokémon swoops down with grace and before its feet touch the ground, it lets out a soft roar and breathes out fire straight to Ash.
Paul stares flabbergasted then he blinks when Ash presses his hand against the large Pokémon's chest and says, "I'm glad you came."
"You know this Charizard?" A dumb question, Paul's aware, but his mind is still recovering from the momentary shock so he had to ask.
"Yes. This is my Charizard." There's a fond glow in Ash's eyes while he pets the orange creature's neck. "He's staying at the Charicific Valley to train with his own kind."
More of Ash's life unfolds before Paul's eyes. Officer Jenny arrives not long after with a Squirtle and Ash claims that it's his Pokémon but has left it to lead a group of fire fighters called the 'Squirtle Squad' and Paul can't help but think, huh?
It’s like Paul has stepped into Ash's world, finding out more about Ash than he anticipates, inevitably breaking down the barriers that once stood between them as rivals and he now sees Ash - really sees Ash in a new light.
***
The other guests arrive. Dawn and Brock and that guy with a wavy blond hair - Barry, he recalls - are the only ones Paul knows.
Paul sits near the end of the table with Ash on his right and this Drew guywhom Paul thinks is dating May on his left. He's merely a spectator, watching the others, listening to their banters, hearing them praise Mrs. Ketchum for her cooking. And Brock, too. Apparently Brock cooks and Paul's discovering things that don't normally interest him but these are Ash's friends - Ash's family - and they're part of Ash's life. Never has Paul felt such a strong desire, as he does now, to be part of Ash's life too.
It's crazy, he thinks. Weird even. Growing up, he's been so wrapped up in his own world, didn't care about anything else but himself. And his brother, perhaps. But now.
"So Paul," someone says, forcing Paul to look up from his plate and meet Brock's gaze. "Where will you be going next?"
None of your business is on the tip of Paul's tongue but he swallows the snide retort. "To Unova, perhaps," he says in response then his eyes slide over to Ash. "If you can tell me more about the region."
Ash perks up from his seat, says, "I'd love to Paul," and his head turns to his mother. "Mom, is it okay if Paul stays with us while he's here?"
"Of course, dear. I'll have Mimey prepare the guest room."
Paul wants to decline, wants to tell them he can stay elsewhere but the hopeful look on Ash's face crushes his resolve so he just nods and mutters an earnest, "Thanks."
"The rest of you can stay here," Professor Oak offers.
When Paul's eyes slide back to Brock, he catches sight of the red-haired girl - ugh, what's her name? Is it Misty? - beside him, glaring at Paul openly. He averts his gaze to Drew, who's babbling about contests and all that shit, and pretends to listen with utmost interest.
Eventually, the noises gets too irritating that Paul decides to turn them off so the conversation bleeds to nothing but a whirring sound in his head. The voice of Professor Oak's grandson hauls his attention back to the table. "So Ashy boy," he says. "What's your next move?"
Ash downs his juice first - the movement of Ash's throat so mesmerizing - then says, "I heard of this region or island where there's no wild Pokémon? Or maybe just a few? And you can just bring your Pokémon and train." He wipes the moisture clinging above his lip with the back of his hand. "I think it will be a perfect opportunity to work closely with my current teams."
A loud roar reverberates behind them, giving Paul quite a start.
"Yes Charizard, that includes you," Ash says with a hearty giggle - the same sound that sends prickles at the back of Paul's neck. "There's one thing I need to do though." Everyone's eyes are on Ash, as if waiting for him to vomit words of wisdom. A touch of melancholy creeps on his expression. "I'd like to see if I can still get Pidgeot back."
Paul's not one to pry so he waits until Ash explains that he had to leave his Pidgeot in the nearby forest to keep watch over the Pidgey and Pidgeotto living there. "And you thought I was horrible for releasing my Pokémon."
"It was for a different reason, Paul-"
"I know. I know." Something in Paul's heart breaks. He wants to tell Ash he had his reasons too, why he'd once sought after power and strength more than anything else and why he had gotten rid of those he deemed weren't strong enough for him.
But he gets distracted when Ash gets up, the glow back on his face so quick that the others probably didn't notice it was gone for a moment. "Let's battle, Paul! I'll use Quilava," he says and runs off to the open field with Pikachu at his feet.
***
Later that night, when they're in Ash's bedroom with Paul perched on the edge of Ash's bed and Ash is in the middle, hugging his knees, Ash lays down his plans in finding his Pidgeot.
"I've got a great idea!" The blinding light on Ash's eyes fills Paul with dread. He may not know Ash too well, but somehow he has this strange inkling that a great idea for Ash isn't a great idea for anyone else. "Why don't you come with me?"
There are strings of responses tangling in Paul's brain. I don't know or Why me? and maybe Shouldn't you be asking your best friend, Gary, or Brock or that Dawn girl? Also, You've got to be kidding me or even the catty remark of That’s pathetic. What comes out though is a less eager "sure," and then he's thinking of asking Electivire to hit his head with a Brick Break so he'll snap out of Ash's spell or something.
"It will be awesome, don't you think?" Ash's toes wiggles against the side Paul's thigh, nudging Paul. "Just like our journey to Nimbasa City."
Paul clutches on Ash's foot - cold and surprisingly soft against his palm. He expects them to be rough or calloused, toughened from all that traveling. "Right. We should go to bed. We'll talk about it in the morning." He leaves Ash's room before he can sign up to any more of Ash's 'great ideas.'
The lights peeking through the crack under the door of the guest room warns Paul that there's someone inside. He remembers turning it off earlier. He doesn't get startled to find someone sitting on the bed. What baffles him is the fact that it's Gary Oak who looks as though he's there on purpose.
"I let myself in. I'm always welcome in this house," Gary says in response to Paul's inquisitive glare. "Might I have a word?"
"Do I have a choice?"
Gary tuts and springs up on his feet. "You see, Paul. I've heard about how you've treated Ash back in Sinnoh," he says in this sickeningly conniving tone.
Oh please. Let's not dig into ancient history. Paul chooses not to give Gary the satisfaction of a useless argument, just balls his hands into fists when Gary slides an arm around his shoulders.
"I've seen the way you look at him," Gary hisses, the venom in his voice palpable. "Just thought I should help you realize the truth. Ash is being nice to you because he's Ash, not because he likes you like that, if you get my drift. I think it's obvious that he feels sorry for you." He drops his arm, moves toward the door and has a hand curled around the doorknob when he adds, "Maybe because he thinks you look so pitiful being on the… let's just say, bottom of the social ladder."
The sound of the door closing behind Gary triggers something inside Paul, like a bomb in his head that is about to explode. He throws himself on the bed, buries his face on the pillow and groans.
Sleep doesn't come to him. He spends the rest of the night tossing and turning, Gary's words swirling in his mind like a whirlpool. A voice from the back of his head keeps taunting him, saying, Ash feels sorry for you. He can just imagine Ash and Gary laughing - laughing at him for being so pathetic, for believing that Ash could like him back.
What does he care, anyway? He never gave - still doesn't give - a shit what people think about him, say about him behind his back. Fuck! Why should Ash be different?
Because you like him, the voice in his head says. Admit it. You've got a pitiable crush on the boy.
"No, I don't," he says out loud - not too loud, he hopes. And he hears his voice bouncing back to him, the silent room mocking him. No, I don't. He tries again, only to convince himself. But it isn't working.
It was… maybe it was after he lost at his first rematch with Brandon when all these weird Ash-related thoughts started to take shape. Maybe it was even Brandon who jabbed the realization into his thick head, made him realize he had feelings for Ash.
"Bah! Feelings," he had told himself countless times, but… but Paul found himself practically crawling all the way to Pallet just to see Ash.
Now he's here, trapped between his stubborn façade and these emotions swelling inside his chest, and for the first time, in as long as he can remember, he felt so unsure - uncertain what to do.
Ash feels sorry you. How pathetic. His mind keeps repeating those words over and over until Paul can't take it anymore. He has to leave. Has to. But isn't that a coward's way out?
Paul creeps out of bed, grabs his back pack and sticks his hand inside, fumbling and fumbling until his fingers brush against his notebook. He takes it out along with a pen. What the fuck, he thinks then he starts to scribble down what comes to mind.
Ash, something came up, he writes. I have to return to Sinnoh soon. Guilt has never been part of his vocabulary. It's a feeling that he has never visited but the asphyxiating clench in his chest right now seems close to its description.
He promised Ash he'd help him find his Pidgeot tomorrow but.
Paul tears off the page, slams it on top of his mattress. I'm no coward. An image of Ash looking out his bedroom window, clutching Paul's note against his chest while watching Paul walk away - perhaps for the last time - flashes in Paul's mind. The thought sends a sharp pang to his heart. But… But I don't need someone's pity either.
archived at FFnet and AO3
Chapter Title: WHERE THE WIND BLOWS
Author: clover71
Fandom: Pokémon (Anime)
Pairing: Paul/ Ash (Comashipping); a hint of Drew/ May (AdvanceShipping)
Characters: Paul, Ash, Delia, Mr. Mime, Tracey, May, Max, Brock, Dawn, Barry, Drew, Misty, Gary Oak, Professor Oak, Charizard, Infernape, Gible, Gliscor, Snivy
Rating: PG-13 (for swearing)
Description: Written for love_bingo Round 2, for the square prompt, 'introduction to the family'
Word Count: 3,600+
Chapter Summary: After winning the Kanto Battle Frontier, Paul finds himself on a trek to his former rival's hometown, unmindful that the moment he arrives in Pallet Town, he's likewise stepping into Ash's world.
Disclaimer: This is only fan fiction and written for non-profitable purpose. Pokémon and its characters are owned by its creator, Satoshi Tajiri, and its media franchise is owned by Nintendo.
Author's Note(s):
- I don't exactly know the rules when it comes to challenging the Battle Frontier but since Reggie has been revealed to win six symbols from the Kanto Battle Frontier, I figured Paul can walk the same path but will win all symbols in the end.
- I know Gliscor's whereabouts isn't clear since it was never mentioned at the end of the DP series whether he returned to the Air Battle Master or went with Ash to Kanto. But I'd like to believe he's at Professor Oak's lab with Ash's other Pokémon. And also, it should be obvious by now that I miss Infernape
- Not sure if Snivy will evolve before the end of the Best Wishes 2 series, so I just kept her as Snivy here.
- If you'll notice that most chapters end with Paul leaving or walking away, it's because the original summary for this is 'how many times does Ash have to say goodbye before Paul will say that he's here to stay' so the plot outlines are stuck on that idea.
- The title of this chapter comes from the lyrics of 'I Will Be With You' - a theme from the movie "The Rise of Darkrai'
My Love Bingo card
*the images used for this banner are screen captures from episode 6 of Diamond and Pearl (s10) and episode 34 of Sinnoh League Victors (s13)
Paul plants his feet firmly on top of the hill overlooking a wide expanse of land where a village is nestled. His eyes travel along the road that leads to the cluster of houses with fenced gardens and the sight triggers an internal debate: should he proceed or should he turn the other way and never look back?
He's not even sure why he's here. He should be heading back home to Sinnoh or wherever he should take his journey next. But no. He's here. In Pallet Town of all places.
Ash is probably not home, probably still in Unova or some other region. But somehow Paul can feel Ash's presence, knows Ash is back in his hometown. It's strange that he can practically sense Ash like he's some Mightyena following the scent of his prey. Much as he wants to ignore it, he's pretty much aware that there's this strong connection serving as a bridge between him and his former rival.
Cynthia's words begin to swim in his head. When every life meets another life, something will be born. He didn't pay much heed to that phrase before but now he wonders what that something is. The only thing he knows is that ever since he met Ash, his world began spinning out of its axis.
The town seems to lure him in so he shoves his qualms aside and marches down the road - aimlessly at first because he has no idea where Ash lives exactly.
When he finds an elderly couple out in their garden, he approaches with cautious strides, figures that asking for directions won't kill his pride. He ends up getting the most confusing direction he has ever heard in his entire life though.
It's a good thing the town isn't too big so it doesn't take long until he comes to a stop in front of a small house with a white picket fence.
A woman holding a large baking dish saunters out and Paul instantly recognizes her as Ash's mother. She looks exactly like she did on the video phone when Paul called Ash a year ago. Or has it been more than a year already? The smell of spaghetti sauce and melted cheese hits Paul's nose when she strolls up to the gate, her eyes fixed on him.
"You look familiar," she says, casting him a warm, congenial smile. "You're Paul from Veilstone, right? I have your match with my Ash in the Sinnoh League on record and Ash always watches it whenever he's home."
Paul's not sure how to react to that, doesn't really know if that little revelation is supposed to mean anything so he just nods at her awkwardly.
"Well Ash is up at Professor Oak's lab right now with some of his friends. I'm on my way to bring them food. They're having a picnic so you just arrived in time." She glances back at the house and hollers, "Mimey! Time to go," then a Mr. Mime soon comes bounding out of the house with several food containers balancing on its hands.
The professor's laboratory and residence is just a couple of blocks away. Mr. Mime chimes, "Mime, mime. Mr. Mime," as soon as they step inside the large house and a guy wearing a silly-looking red headband stumbles into the hallway.
"Oh. Mrs. Ketchum, Mr. Mime. Ash, the professor and the others are out at the back lawn," he says and it's only when he shifts to face them that Paul notices the Gible he's cradling in his arms. "I'm just going to put this little one inside. He almost gobbled up the cake May brought with her."
Soft laughter ripples out of Mrs. Ketchum. "Ash's Gible sure is a naughty one. I'll go bring these dishes outside then." She barely takes a step when she stops abruptly and says, "My, my. Where are my manners? Tracey, this is Paul. He's Ash's friend from Sinnoh," her head tilting slightly toward Paul.
Friend?
"Hi Paul," the guy with the red headband says in a raspy voice.
Paul keeps his expression neutral and gives the other guy a terse bob of the head to acknowledge him before following Mrs. Ketchum through what he presumes is the back door.
Seeing the handful of people milling around the picnic table gives Paul a sense of foreboding. He doesn't do well with crowds, no matter how small or big they are. Socializing is a talent he, unfortunately, does not possess. But he politely follows Mrs. Ketchum who introduces him to the group.
"It's nice to finally meet you young man," Professor Oak says, clutching Paul's hand in a firm handshake. "Ash talked a lot about you when he was traveling throughout Sinnoh."
"Oh," is the dumbest, lamest reaction Paul can deliver. To a renowned professor, no less.
Speaking of Ash… Paul realizes his former rival isn't among the group. His gaze strays around the area and he finds Ash running across the field with Gliscor hovering above him. It's Gliscor who spots Paul first and it makes a sound, probably to alert Ash of Paul's presence.
"Paul!" Ash sprints over to him and for a moment, Paul thinks Ash is going to throw his arms around him but Ash comes to a grinding halt at arms length. "Hey Paul, this is quite a surprise. What brings you to Pallet?"
I honestly don't know. "Well, since I'm in the region, thought I'd drop by and see if you were around." Oh, that's great, Paul thinks and grumbles mentally, might as well tell Ash how he'd been in Paul's mind all these months.
"So did you challenge the Kanto Battle Frontier?"
"Yeah." Paul is not one to flaunt because he never finds the need to, so he just shrugs and says, "I got all symbols."
***
It turns out that they're celebrating Ash's fifteenth birthday even if it's a week away. Mrs. Ketchum explains that most of Ash's friends are on a mutual break so they all have agreed to travel to Pallet for the occasion.
"Why don't you show Paul around while we're waiting for Brock and Dawn?" she told Ash and watching her dote on her son gives Paul a clear understanding why Ash is Ash.
Paul is supposed to say it's not necessary, that he's actually just passing through and will have to leave soon but the eagerness thrumming off of Ash is too damn contagious. It's absurd, he knows, but he follows Ash without question through the open field. This girl they call May and her annoying brother with a big mouth joins them, claiming that they both want to see how Ash's Pokémon are doing.
"So you won the whole Battle Frontier. Wow." Ash has this look on his face - between awe and bliss. "That means you're a Frontier Brain now."
Something akin to pride inflates in Paul's chest but he squashes it promptly and maintains nonchalance when he says, "Yeah, guess so."
"Just like Ash. That's awesome, Paul," May says, her voice grating at Paul's nerves somehow.
They - all three of them - smother Paul with praises that nearly chokes him if it isn't for Infernape, who appears in front of them, stealing all the attention.
The fire type greets Paul with a raised fist and utters, "Infernape," in a confrontational way.
The corners of Paul's mouth curl up and the Pokémon mirrors the gesture. "It's been quite a while, hasn't it, Infernape?"
Infernape gives a firm nod then scampers away and chases after a group of Sandshrew. The Pokémon - once Paul's as a Chimchar - looks happy - happier even, Paul thinks.
"Yes he does," Ash mutters, which… and Paul realizes he has spoken his thoughts out loud, wants to smack himself thinking how stupid he must have sounded.
Ash doesn't seem to think so. He dons his branded happy face that once made Paul want to throw something at him, but seeing it now makes Paul's heart bloat.
May's brother ambles ahead, vocally challenging his sister to a battle, and as soon as they're at a distance, awkwardness curls around Ash and Paul.
"Come, Paul." Ash grabs his arm and starts to drag him towards a variety of Pokémon scattered near a huge tree. "I want you to meet my friends."
Paul has seen most of Ash's Pokémon - those he used during the Sinnoh League. Even he must admit that Ash has done a pretty swell job training most - if not all - of those he had seen in action.
It's only when a Bayleef steals Ash's attention that Ash releases his arm but the touch leaves tingles skipping on his skin. Then Ash peers up at Paul through his dark eyelashes, says, "Why don't you let your Pokémon out of their Poké Balls, Paul? Maybe they'd like to roam around," with an earnest look that Paul's stoic disposition cracks.
"Are you sure it's okay?" leaks out of Paul's mouth instead of no thanks, they don't need to.
"Of course. The professor loves to have lots of Pokémon around. And I'm sure Tracey would love to observe them." Ash's eyes are directed somewhere behind Paul and when Paul looks over his shoulder, he sees the guy with the red headband approaching. "He makes excellent sketches of Pokémon."
It seems pointless to oppose Ash's suggestion, regardless of how lame Paul thinks it is, so Paul releases his six Pokémon and it doesn't take long before they're all trampling around the premises.
"Where's your Beartic?" Ash asks.
"With Reggie." Paul steals a glance at Tracey's sketchpad and sees that he's working on a sketch of Weavile. "I used it against the Battle Tower and it did prove to be such a powerhouse. But we lost so I had to request for a rematch. A bit more training and I can turn that Beartic into an unstoppable force."
A slight curve appears on Ash's lips. "I'm sure you'll do a great job training it. You know I had to battle Anabel twice too."
Paul jumps back a little when an apple appears in front of him then belatedly notices the thin vine holding it up. His gaze drops on a small green creature and he's quick to recognize it as Ash's Snivy - the one he met when he went to see Ash in Unova. He takes the fruit, ponders on whether he should pat the Pokémon on its head but decides against it.
"I think Snivy likes you," Ash says and his mouth opens as if to say something else but the strident roar distracts him. His eyes dart over to the sky, prompting Paul to do the same.
A blotch of orange is descending at an incredible speed. When at a considerable distance, Paul is able to identify the figure as a Pokémon. He barely manages to rack through his brain for the name when Ash yells, "Charizard!"
The large dragon-like Pokémon swoops down with grace and before its feet touch the ground, it lets out a soft roar and breathes out fire straight to Ash.
Paul stares flabbergasted then he blinks when Ash presses his hand against the large Pokémon's chest and says, "I'm glad you came."
"You know this Charizard?" A dumb question, Paul's aware, but his mind is still recovering from the momentary shock so he had to ask.
"Yes. This is my Charizard." There's a fond glow in Ash's eyes while he pets the orange creature's neck. "He's staying at the Charicific Valley to train with his own kind."
More of Ash's life unfolds before Paul's eyes. Officer Jenny arrives not long after with a Squirtle and Ash claims that it's his Pokémon but has left it to lead a group of fire fighters called the 'Squirtle Squad' and Paul can't help but think, huh?
It’s like Paul has stepped into Ash's world, finding out more about Ash than he anticipates, inevitably breaking down the barriers that once stood between them as rivals and he now sees Ash - really sees Ash in a new light.
***
The other guests arrive. Dawn and Brock and that guy with a wavy blond hair - Barry, he recalls - are the only ones Paul knows.
Paul sits near the end of the table with Ash on his right and this Drew guywhom Paul thinks is dating May on his left. He's merely a spectator, watching the others, listening to their banters, hearing them praise Mrs. Ketchum for her cooking. And Brock, too. Apparently Brock cooks and Paul's discovering things that don't normally interest him but these are Ash's friends - Ash's family - and they're part of Ash's life. Never has Paul felt such a strong desire, as he does now, to be part of Ash's life too.
It's crazy, he thinks. Weird even. Growing up, he's been so wrapped up in his own world, didn't care about anything else but himself. And his brother, perhaps. But now.
"So Paul," someone says, forcing Paul to look up from his plate and meet Brock's gaze. "Where will you be going next?"
None of your business is on the tip of Paul's tongue but he swallows the snide retort. "To Unova, perhaps," he says in response then his eyes slide over to Ash. "If you can tell me more about the region."
Ash perks up from his seat, says, "I'd love to Paul," and his head turns to his mother. "Mom, is it okay if Paul stays with us while he's here?"
"Of course, dear. I'll have Mimey prepare the guest room."
Paul wants to decline, wants to tell them he can stay elsewhere but the hopeful look on Ash's face crushes his resolve so he just nods and mutters an earnest, "Thanks."
"The rest of you can stay here," Professor Oak offers.
When Paul's eyes slide back to Brock, he catches sight of the red-haired girl - ugh, what's her name? Is it Misty? - beside him, glaring at Paul openly. He averts his gaze to Drew, who's babbling about contests and all that shit, and pretends to listen with utmost interest.
Eventually, the noises gets too irritating that Paul decides to turn them off so the conversation bleeds to nothing but a whirring sound in his head. The voice of Professor Oak's grandson hauls his attention back to the table. "So Ashy boy," he says. "What's your next move?"
Ash downs his juice first - the movement of Ash's throat so mesmerizing - then says, "I heard of this region or island where there's no wild Pokémon? Or maybe just a few? And you can just bring your Pokémon and train." He wipes the moisture clinging above his lip with the back of his hand. "I think it will be a perfect opportunity to work closely with my current teams."
A loud roar reverberates behind them, giving Paul quite a start.
"Yes Charizard, that includes you," Ash says with a hearty giggle - the same sound that sends prickles at the back of Paul's neck. "There's one thing I need to do though." Everyone's eyes are on Ash, as if waiting for him to vomit words of wisdom. A touch of melancholy creeps on his expression. "I'd like to see if I can still get Pidgeot back."
Paul's not one to pry so he waits until Ash explains that he had to leave his Pidgeot in the nearby forest to keep watch over the Pidgey and Pidgeotto living there. "And you thought I was horrible for releasing my Pokémon."
"It was for a different reason, Paul-"
"I know. I know." Something in Paul's heart breaks. He wants to tell Ash he had his reasons too, why he'd once sought after power and strength more than anything else and why he had gotten rid of those he deemed weren't strong enough for him.
But he gets distracted when Ash gets up, the glow back on his face so quick that the others probably didn't notice it was gone for a moment. "Let's battle, Paul! I'll use Quilava," he says and runs off to the open field with Pikachu at his feet.
***
Later that night, when they're in Ash's bedroom with Paul perched on the edge of Ash's bed and Ash is in the middle, hugging his knees, Ash lays down his plans in finding his Pidgeot.
"I've got a great idea!" The blinding light on Ash's eyes fills Paul with dread. He may not know Ash too well, but somehow he has this strange inkling that a great idea for Ash isn't a great idea for anyone else. "Why don't you come with me?"
There are strings of responses tangling in Paul's brain. I don't know or Why me? and maybe Shouldn't you be asking your best friend, Gary, or Brock or that Dawn girl? Also, You've got to be kidding me or even the catty remark of That’s pathetic. What comes out though is a less eager "sure," and then he's thinking of asking Electivire to hit his head with a Brick Break so he'll snap out of Ash's spell or something.
"It will be awesome, don't you think?" Ash's toes wiggles against the side Paul's thigh, nudging Paul. "Just like our journey to Nimbasa City."
Paul clutches on Ash's foot - cold and surprisingly soft against his palm. He expects them to be rough or calloused, toughened from all that traveling. "Right. We should go to bed. We'll talk about it in the morning." He leaves Ash's room before he can sign up to any more of Ash's 'great ideas.'
The lights peeking through the crack under the door of the guest room warns Paul that there's someone inside. He remembers turning it off earlier. He doesn't get startled to find someone sitting on the bed. What baffles him is the fact that it's Gary Oak who looks as though he's there on purpose.
"I let myself in. I'm always welcome in this house," Gary says in response to Paul's inquisitive glare. "Might I have a word?"
"Do I have a choice?"
Gary tuts and springs up on his feet. "You see, Paul. I've heard about how you've treated Ash back in Sinnoh," he says in this sickeningly conniving tone.
Oh please. Let's not dig into ancient history. Paul chooses not to give Gary the satisfaction of a useless argument, just balls his hands into fists when Gary slides an arm around his shoulders.
"I've seen the way you look at him," Gary hisses, the venom in his voice palpable. "Just thought I should help you realize the truth. Ash is being nice to you because he's Ash, not because he likes you like that, if you get my drift. I think it's obvious that he feels sorry for you." He drops his arm, moves toward the door and has a hand curled around the doorknob when he adds, "Maybe because he thinks you look so pitiful being on the… let's just say, bottom of the social ladder."
The sound of the door closing behind Gary triggers something inside Paul, like a bomb in his head that is about to explode. He throws himself on the bed, buries his face on the pillow and groans.
Sleep doesn't come to him. He spends the rest of the night tossing and turning, Gary's words swirling in his mind like a whirlpool. A voice from the back of his head keeps taunting him, saying, Ash feels sorry for you. He can just imagine Ash and Gary laughing - laughing at him for being so pathetic, for believing that Ash could like him back.
What does he care, anyway? He never gave - still doesn't give - a shit what people think about him, say about him behind his back. Fuck! Why should Ash be different?
Because you like him, the voice in his head says. Admit it. You've got a pitiable crush on the boy.
"No, I don't," he says out loud - not too loud, he hopes. And he hears his voice bouncing back to him, the silent room mocking him. No, I don't. He tries again, only to convince himself. But it isn't working.
It was… maybe it was after he lost at his first rematch with Brandon when all these weird Ash-related thoughts started to take shape. Maybe it was even Brandon who jabbed the realization into his thick head, made him realize he had feelings for Ash.
"Bah! Feelings," he had told himself countless times, but… but Paul found himself practically crawling all the way to Pallet just to see Ash.
Now he's here, trapped between his stubborn façade and these emotions swelling inside his chest, and for the first time, in as long as he can remember, he felt so unsure - uncertain what to do.
Ash feels sorry you. How pathetic. His mind keeps repeating those words over and over until Paul can't take it anymore. He has to leave. Has to. But isn't that a coward's way out?
Paul creeps out of bed, grabs his back pack and sticks his hand inside, fumbling and fumbling until his fingers brush against his notebook. He takes it out along with a pen. What the fuck, he thinks then he starts to scribble down what comes to mind.
Ash, something came up, he writes. I have to return to Sinnoh soon. Guilt has never been part of his vocabulary. It's a feeling that he has never visited but the asphyxiating clench in his chest right now seems close to its description.
He promised Ash he'd help him find his Pidgeot tomorrow but.
Paul tears off the page, slams it on top of his mattress. I'm no coward. An image of Ash looking out his bedroom window, clutching Paul's note against his chest while watching Paul walk away - perhaps for the last time - flashes in Paul's mind. The thought sends a sharp pang to his heart. But… But I don't need someone's pity either.
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