As Akg walked down the quiet path toward Ash's house, he took in the serene beauty of Pallet Town. The golden rays of the setting sun bathed the trees and houses in warm light, and the sounds of wild Pokémon chirping, buzzing, and rustling filled the air. The greenery stretched endlessly around him—so calm and peaceful that Akg couldn't help but feel a lump in his throat.
"This world… it's really real."
Just then, the Pokéball around his neck gave a faint, warm buzz. Rina, his beloved partner, was sensing his emotions again. He gently placed his hand over the Pokéball, smiling softly.
"Thank you, Rina."
He soon reached a cozy, familiar-looking house—the one he had only ever seen on screen before. Ash Ketchum's house.
Heart pounding slightly, Akg reached out and rang the bell. Moments later, the door swung open, and Ash grinned brightly.
"Oh, Akg! You're here! Come on in—Mom just finished setting the table!"
Akg stepped inside, marveling at the interior he remembered from the anime, now so alive and real.
As they entered the kitchen, Akg's eyes locked onto the elegant woman arranging dishes on the table—Delia Ketchum. She had gentle eyes, a warm smile, and the kind of graceful beauty that made his heart skip a beat.
Feeling someone's gaze, Delia looked up and saw the two boys.
"Ash, who's this young man?"
"This is my new friend, Akg! I told you I invited him for dinner, remember?" Ash said excitedly.
Delia nodded, her smile brightening.
"Oh, so you're Akg. It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Delia Ketchum, Ash's mom. Welcome to our home."
Akg bowed slightly, his voice calm.
"Thank you, Aunt Delia. I'm Akg—I moved to Pallet Town a week ago."
The three of them sat down, and warm dishes were passed around. Laughter filled the air as they enjoyed the meal. Akg took a bite of Delia's food and his eyes widened.
"Aunt Delia, this is amazing! I've never had food this delicious!"
Delia chuckled, clearly pleased.
"Oh my, such a sweet tongue you have!"
"Told ya!" Ash said proudly, puffing out his chest.
"My mom's the best cook ever!"
Their shared laughter made the room feel even warmer. But as the laughter settled, Akg asked gently,
"Aunt Delia, I haven't seen Uncle around. Is he not home?"
A shadow passed briefly across Delia's face. She turned to Ash.
"Ash, could you take the dishes into the kitchen and start washing up?"
"Sure, Mom!" Ash said, gathering the plates.
Once he was gone, Delia turned back to Akg, her voice softer.
"My husband… passed away about ten years ago. He was on a trip when it happened. Since then, I've raised Ash alone while running a flower shop. But… please don't tell Ash. I told him his father is just away on a long journey."
Akg's eyes softened with understanding.
"I'm really sorry, Aunt Delia. I shouldn't have asked. And don't worry—I won't tell Ash. I promise."
Delia looked at him, eyes slightly moist but smiling.
"You're a very kind boy, Akg. Thank you."
Trying to lift the mood, she asked gently,
"What about you? Where are your parents?"
Akg responded quietly, but calmly,
"They were forest rangers. They passed away during duty. After that, the Pokémon Alliance arranged for me to move here."
Delia was moved by his words and reached out, pulling him into a warm, motherly hug.
"You poor thing… If you ever need anything—or even just someone to talk to—you can come to me, okay? Think of me as your mom too."
Held in her embrace, Akg blushed deeply, but his heart swelled with warmth.
"Thank you, Aunt Delia… I will."
Delia finally let go, smiling gently before heading to the kitchen.
A few moments later, Ash returned, and the two boys played together for a while, talking about Pokémon, summer camp, and their dreams.
As the sky turned dark, Akg stood up.
"It's getting late. I should head home."
"Come hang out again!" Ash said with a grin.
"I will. Thanks again, Aunt Delia!" Akg called out.
"You're always welcome, dear!" she replied warmly.
Akg walked back under the starry sky, feeling lighter than ever.
When he reached home, he locked the door behind him, went into his bedroom, and collapsed onto the bed with a happy sigh. As if sensing his mood, the Pokéball around his neck glowed—and with a gentle flash, Rina emerged, snuggling into his chest.
He smiled, wrapping an arm around her as she let out a soft, content hum.
For the first time in this world, Akg truly felt… at home.