Chapter 2: Finally 8

5 Years had passed since he awakened his memories. Within those five years, Ark continued to train and study to have a firm foundation. Due to his bodies constraints, he chose to do 4 laps of the neighbourhood, two in the morning and two at night. Since he was a miniature celebrity in the neighbourhood, he was allowed to go without his mother after the first year. This running as well as his continual press-up and pull-ups, his muscles have developed at a nice rate. Many have commented that he looks older than his age suggests. Inheriting his Black Hair and Sky Blue Eyes from his mother, hes slowly growing up to be a handsome young boy.

"Mother, since we have a few weeks off of school next week, can I go to the Pokemon Camp by Professor Oak?"

His Mother put down her knife and fork. Her eyes stared straight into Arks and a helples sigh escaped her lips.

"You grow up so fast Ark, we will go see the Professor later, however you need to promise you will finish your homework before you go"

Ark smiled, expecting this result as his Mother was aware of how intelligent he was, therefore she knew he had no excuse to procrastinate.

"Of course Mother, I intended to anyway as that will give me more time to spend with you on the break!"

A smile blossomed onto his Mothers face, a radiant smile she only every showed to her son who despite his young age, was considerate of her feelings.

After dinner, Ark and his mother walked along a scenic path with trees hanging overhead before reaching Professor Oaks hill walkway. Ark held his mothers hand and led her up the hill making sure to keep a pace that will prevent her from losing breath. They arrived at the top after a pleasant 2 minutes and Ark rang the intercom.

"Who is it?"

A slightly aged voice sounded from the intercom.

"Professor Oak, it is Kara, and Ark. We have a request!"

As soon as Ark's mother finished speaking, the door unlocked and Ark held open the door for her. She smiled and stepped inside. As Ark closed the door, a man with light grey hair and a white lab coat strolled towards them. His face adorned with a friendly smile. Professor Oak welcomed them in and took them to the reception room, a room with two double sofas and a wooden coffee table in the center. They sat down and Arks mother spoke to Professor Oak.

"Kara, Ark! What do I owe the pleasure? It is not often you two visit me outside of work hours!"

Professor Oak questioned with the same friendly smile.

"We are sorry for intruding, its nothing serious. It's just Ark has a request for you."

Kara explained and smiled as her eyes gestured for Ark to take over.

"I would like to join the Pokemon camp you're hosting this break, Professor Oak."

Professor Oak smiled and stood up to make tea.

"I see, well though it is short notice. I don't mind taking you with me. Ash is going as well, so i'll take you with us. I take it you have your Mothers consent?"

Professor Oak set down tea infront of them, its bitter aroma cleared the air of the room.

"Yes he has my consent, i'm sure he will love the experience the camp has to offer"

Professor Oak nodded to Arks Mothers words.

"Professor Oak, I am still only 8 but in the future at 16, I intend to chase my goals alongside my Pokemon. Therefore, I think camp is one step towards that."

As they watched Arks display of maturity, Professor Oak spoke the question on his mind.

"If it's not too much to ask Ark, what might your goal be?"

"My goal? I have 2 main goals! The first being to live my life with a large family! A family so large we never have to worry about being lonely! As for the second, I intend to become a true Master of both body and pokemon so I can keep everyone who is my family safe!"

The room instantly went silent. As Arks words finally sank in, Professor Oak and his Mother stared at him with a mixture of disbelief and confusion. This was not a normal wish, especially for an 8 year old child. While Ark may be mature, this goal was something that would usually be inconcievable for children and even some adults.

"I see, that is a truly unique dream. Since I have seen your resolve, I am certain that the Pokemon Camp will help you towards your goal."

Professor Oak managed to answer after recovering, though the look of disbelief still remained on his face. Placing the cup on the table, Arks Mother stood up with a smile.

"On that enlightening note, we shall take our leave professor Oak. I will make sure Ark is at your lab next Saturday morning at 7:30am."

He nodded in consent and led them out. Ark and his mother left for home, one filled with excitement, while the other was exhausted beyond words.