The sun had begun its slow descent, spilling golden light across the quiet streets of Pallet Town. Leaves shimmered like molten gold, rooftops glowed warmly, and the air was alive with the gentle rustle of wild Pokémon. Birds chirped from the treetops, and distant bug cries blended with the soft whisper of the evening breeze. Alex slowed his pace, taking it all in.
This world… it's really beautiful, he thought, a lump forming in his throat. It felt almost too perfect, like a memory he had longed for but never dared to imagine real.
The Pokéball hanging around his neck pulsed softly, a gentle warmth spreading through his chest. Rina was sensing his emotions again. He placed a hand over the ball and whispered, "Thank you, Rina."
Ahead, the house came into view—the Ketchums' home, just as he had seen countless times on screens, now alive and tangible before him. His heart beat faster. He raised his hand and rang the bell.
The door swung open almost immediately. Ash's bright, familiar grin greeted him, and his voice bubbled with excitement.
"Alex! You're here! Come on in—Mom just finished setting the table!"
Alex stepped inside, his eyes drinking in every detail. The warmth of the home, the soft creak of the wooden floor, the faint smell of cooking—everything felt alive, real, and welcoming.
In the kitchen, a graceful figure turned to greet them. Delia Ketchum's eyes were gentle, her smile warm and inviting, and Alex felt an unexpected tug in his chest. There was something about the quiet confidence in her movements, the soft strength in her presence, that made him feel… safe.
"Ash, who's this young man?" she asked softly.
"This is my new friend, Alex!" Ash practically bounced in place. "I told you I invited him for dinner, remember?"
Delia's face brightened. "Oh, so you're Alex. It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Delia Ketchum. Welcome to our home."
Alex bowed politely. "Thank you, Aunt Delia. I'm Alex. I moved to Pallet Town a few days ago."
They all sat down, and the warmth of a home-cooked meal filled the room. The aroma of fresh bread, roasted vegetables, and simmering stew made Alex's stomach rumble. He took a tentative bite and froze, eyes widening.
"Aunt Delia… this is amazing! I've never had food this delicious!"
Delia laughed softly, a sound like a gentle wind. "Oh my… such a sweet tongue you have!"
Ash puffed out his chest, grinning. "Told ya! Mom's the best cook ever!"
Laughter flowed easily, filling the room with warmth. Then, almost unconsciously, Alex asked, "Aunt Delia… I haven't seen… my uncle? I mean, your husband?"
A shadow flickered across Delia's face. She turned to Ash. "Ash, could you take the dishes into the kitchen and start washing up?"
"Sure, Mom!" Ash replied, and the boy scurried away.
Once they were alone, Delia's voice softened, carrying a quiet sorrow. "My husband… passed away about ten years ago, on a trip. Since then, I've raised Ash alone, running the flower shop. But please… don't tell him. I've told him his father is away on a long journey."
Alex felt his chest tighten with empathy. "I'm so sorry, Aunt Delia. I shouldn't have asked. And don't worry—I won't tell Ash. I promise."
Delia's eyes glistened, but her smile remained. "You're very kind, Alex. Thank you."
She leaned forward slightly. "And you… what about your parents?"
Alex's voice was quiet, steady. "They were forest rangers. They passed away during duty. After that, the Pokémon Alliance arranged for me to move here."
Delia's expression softened further. She reached out, wrapping Alex in a warm, motherly embrace. "You poor thing… if you ever need anything—or even just someone to talk to—you can come to me. Think of me as your mom too."
Alex's face flushed with gratitude and shyness, but his heart swelled. "Thank you, Aunt Delia… I will."
She released him with a smile, returning to the kitchen. Moments later, Ash returned, and the three spent the evening laughing, talking about Pokémon, summer camp, and dreams. Each shared story and joke made Alex feel lighter, warmer, as though he had belonged here all along.
When the sky had darkened and stars began to twinkle overhead, Alex stood. "It's getting late… I should head home."
"Come hang out again!" Ash called, grinning.
"I will! Thanks again, Aunt Delia!"
"You're always welcome, dear!" she replied, her voice carrying genuine warmth.
Outside, the night air was cool and fragrant with the scent of flowers and fresh grass. Alex walked home under a blanket of stars, feeling lighter than he had in years.
When he reached his house, he locked the door and collapsed onto his bed with a contented sigh. The Pokéball around his neck glowed softly. With a gentle flash, Rina emerged, curling into his chest. She let out a soft, content hum.
Alex smiled, wrapping an arm around her. Her warmth and quiet presence filled him with a profound sense of belonging.
For the first time since his rebirth, he realized… this was home.