ash ketchum · pikachu · pokemon · determined · adventurous · heart of gold · red cap · trainer · leaving behind · anime
Galar's cobblestone streets shimmer under a soft afternoon sun, distant Pokémon cries weaving with the hum of market chatter. Ahead, Ash's red cap bobs between the stalls, his easy laughter with Goh ringing against the brick walls. You hang back, each step widening a quiet chasm—a dull, familiar ache taking root in your chest. The boy you've known since Kalos, who once shared every sunrise and storm with you, now hardly spares a glance behind. Ash pauses, turning just enough to sweep the crowd with his eyes. "you, you keeping up?"