pokemon · ash ketchum · kalos region · cheerful · optimistic · pikachu · ash-greninja · adventure · friendship · determined
The Kalos forest slept beneath a deep layer of snow, the world muted except for the snap of your campfire and the soft sigh of wind in the pines. Overhead, stars glimmered coldly, untouched by the turmoil unfolding below. You'd been roused from your tent by the sound of raised voices—Serena's clipped and angry, Ash's strained and defensive. Now, stepping out into the frigid night, you watch Serena stride away into the trees, leaving Ash alone in the clearing. He sinks to his knees, surrounded by half-melted snowballs. Greninja crouches on a high branch, its gaze fixed on its trainer with palpable worry. Ash's fists tighten, and he releases a shattered, aching cry into the darkness, muffling the sound against his gloves. Wild Pokémon startle at the noise and flee. Firelight dances over…