The Beginning of a Journey

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Ash waited for this day to come, and it was finally here. All his five years of training had led up to this moment.

He was excited, yet calm, knowing that today was the beginning of the journey he'd been preparing for. Every step he took toward Professor Oak's lab was filled with purpose—today he would get Pikachu.

After preparing himself, Ash headed calmly toward the lab, and as expected, he ran into Gary Oak stepping out, his usual smug expression plastered on his face. A group of cheerleaders cheered for Gary as he exited.

"Well, look who finally decided to show up," Gary said, smirking. "Late as usual, Ashy-boy. Already behind me and the rest of us."

Ash, unfazed, returned the grin. "I guess we'll see who's behind in the long run, Gary." He eyed the car with the cheerleaders. "Nice ride, by the way. You'll need it to keep up."

Gary chuckled, adjusting his jacket. "Yeah, well, not everyone can be as great as me. Squirtle and I are going straight to the top." He glanced at Ash. "Need a ride to catch up?"

Ash waved it off. "No thanks, I'll manage. But good luck, Gary. You'll need it."

Gary raised an eyebrow at that but shrugged it off. "Suit yourself, Ashy-boy. Try not to fall too far behind!" With a wave, Gary climbed into his car, speeding off with his entourage.

Ash continued toward the lab, knowing full well that his real journey was about to begin. He entered the building and was greeted by Professor Oak, who had a look of mild concern.

"Ah, Ash, you're a bit late," Oak said apologetically. "All of the starter Pokémon—Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle—have already been chosen by other Trainers."

Ash sighed, pretending to be disappointed even though he knew this was all part of his plan. "No starters left at all?"

Professor Oak gave him a sympathetic smile. "Well, there is one more option, though it's a bit unconventional." He reached for a Poké Ball on the shelf. "I think this might suit you well."

Oak released the Pokémon inside, and out popped Pikachu, who immediately let out a mischievous "Pika!" before sending a jolt of electricity toward the professor, shocking him.

"Yup, this is Pikachu," Oak said with a wince, rubbing his arms. "He's got a bit of a temper and doesn't really like staying in his Poké Ball."

Ash smiled as Pikachu stared at him curiously. He approached Pikachu calmly, kneeling down and reaching out a hand. "Hey there, Pikachu. We're going to be partners."

Pikachu blinked, confused at first, but Ash gently petted his head, infusing a small bit of Aura energy to create a calming effect. Pikachu looked up, eyes softening, before letting out a happy "Pika!"

Professor Oak, surprised at how quickly Ash had bonded with Pikachu, handed him the Poké Ball. "Looks like Pikachu likes you already. Take good care of him."

Ash nodded and stood up with Pikachu now perched on his shoulder. Oak handed him a Pokédex and six Poké Balls as well. "This Pokédex will record data on any Pokémon you encounter or catch. It's a vital tool for Trainers."

Ash accepted the Pokédex and the Poké Balls with gratitude. "Thanks, Professor," he said, as Pikachu made himself comfortable on Ash's shoulder. Then he look at the system message which made him smile and began to leave to go home.

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Quest Update:

Starter Encounter:

Get Your Starter: Receive Pikachu.

Reward: Shop unlock and Light Ball.

Status: Complete

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He stepped out of the lab, heading back toward his house to say goodbye to his mom before setting off on his journey. As he walked, a sudden system notification appeared before him.

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Ding!

Update available. Integrate system with Arc Pokédex.

Reward: Arc Pokédex (unlock), Arc Pokédex exclusive Rotom.

Do you wish to integrate? (Estimated time: 1 hour)

Yes / No

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Seeing the prompt, Ash didn't hesitate. He immediately pressed Yes and felt a brief sensation of energy as the system began its integration. Satisfied, he continued on his way back home.

When he arrived, his mom, Delia, greeted him warmly. "Ash, you're finally back! How did it go?"

Ash smiled, showing Pikachu off. "Mom, meet my new partner, Pikachu."

Delia gasped, her eyes lighting up with joy as she embraced Ash and Pikachu both. "He's adorable, Ash! You're really starting your journey now... I'm so proud of you." Tears welled up in her eyes as she hugged her son tightly. "Just promise me you'll take care of yourself and call me from time to time, okay?"

Ash hugged her back, feeling the weight of the moment but remaining calm. "I will, Mom. I'll call as often as I can. I promise."

Delia nodded, giving him one last hug. "I'll miss you, but I know you're going to do amazing things."

With that, Ash stepped out of the house, Pikachu by his side, ready to embark on his journey to become the best.