Archive of Our Own ^beta

POV. Pikachu

Despite the silence he displayed through his command and steps, Red's love was never silent. Others might not notice, but he clearly cared about them.

Just because he doesn't shout it out doesn't mean he doesn't care; they all know he loves them so much.

The way Red's eyes crinkle in pride as Blastoise triumph's against a disadvantage type. His daily devotion to comb Espeon's fur every night with careful hands, the uneasiness that radiates from him as he waits for nurse joy to return with Venusaur, never complains about Snorlax eating away his wallet, instead encourages him to eat more. Plucking meat and feeding it to Charizard who wasn't feeling well that day, stood by Lapras's side as she mourned the loss of her birthplace. When a trainer had insulted Pikachu's worth, Red's expression was full of rage and the blow that landed on the other's face left a satisfying crack.

So Pikachu has no doubt that Red loves them very much, but he's having trouble comprehending his mute trainer's train of thought as he stares at the hideously dreary inside of the tunnels, with the freezing wind of Mt. Silver brushing across his face.

Pikachu can only stare as pure white envelops Mt. Silver and its environs, creating a dream-like landscape. He also ignores Venusaur's sneeze and Charizard's blood thirsty laughter that rings through the caves ruins, hoping Red will have a suitable explanation for what was going on.

Thankfully, Mt. Silver had a lot of powerful Pokemon, so he and Charizard had fit right in. While the others easily bulldozed Mt. Silver's Pokemon, as the tension of days of only facing weak trainers showed, they easily conquered Mt. Silver's Pokemon in victory. They had to hold back their strength at times in order to avoid murdering the other trainer's Pokemon, but nothing could stop them on Mt. Silver, where being the strongest guaranteed survival, as the team gleefully marched on from one battle to the next.

Pikachu lets out a loud laugh, no doubt relieved because he suffered the most while Red was champion, as Red was such a social disaster, Pikachu was frequently forced to play peacemaker, often subjected to the people's fawning and grabbing's at his tail.

Pikachu never saw Red smiled again after he became champion. People assumed Red didn't smile, but when he was with them, he always flashed a tiny smile, though these days he just flashes a phony one.

As a result, when they landed on Mt. Silver, they wreaked havoc in one location while generating chaos in another. The smile on Red's face was genuine. Pikachu attempts to keep his sentiments concealed for fear of Red deteriorating into a hollow shell of the person he once was.

They rapidly moved on from the days of battling wild Pokemon from left to right and scavenging for food to stay alive. They didn't ask and Red didn't offer an explanation, which was great because Red was starting to connect with them more, but after a week on Mt. Silver, Red finally spoke out.

"I'd like to spend more time with you guys," As confusion spreads through the air, they all come to a standstill, giving Red their full attention.

"I missed out on bonding with you all because I spent so much time getting stronger." As he maintained a steady gaze on each of them.

Pikachu and the others know this isn't the case, despite devoting much of his time to improving their strength. Red made sure he still made time for bonding with them, and treat them with care.

Seeing as his paws were sore from battling Pokemon from day and night, he recalls that every night while he sleeps, he will hear someone mutter a quiet, sincere "sorry." as ointment is applied to his sore-feeling paws with gentle hands massaging them.

In reality, it was more because he didn't have any other choice. As Red's cries fell on deaf ears, despite the evidence on his hands, with both the police and grownups reluctant to intervene, fearful of the repercussions of defying Giovanni would do. So, by strengthening himself and his team, he could ensure that no Pokemon suffered at Team Rockets hands.

The memory of Red crying for the numerous Pokemon corpses they encountered in the lab remains vivid in his mind.

"I know it's selfish of me, but I'd like to spend more time with you guys, have more fun, and enjoy your company because we've never had the chance," His gaze had become less steady, and there was a tinge of remorse on the side. "If you're unhappy, I'll assist you in finding better solutions,"

Something didn't feel right to Pikachu.

"I'll also assist you in finding better trainers to work with,"

As if he hadn't already stabbed them with a knife.

"It's fine if you don't want to be with me,"

Red had the audacity to twist the knife in the wound.

After the rocket grunt leaves, Pikachu and the others rush from their hiding spots to the door, in an effort to get to Red. At the time Charizard was still Charmeleon and Espeon a small Eevee, Blastoise was still a Wartotle, and Venusuar was still an Ivysaur. Back when they still hadn't encounter Lapras and Snorlax.

Those days were when they were young and brash, thinking they could overcome anything.

As they opened the door, the stench of smoke emanating from burning hair and flesh, was still fresh. Red was hunched over on the floor, his shoulders trembling, as if he was trying to hide from the world.

Pikachu doesn't know how his voice can stay remain so even and calm.

"Pikapi?"

("Red?")

And Red who had always been calm and collected, glazed them over with such a frantic look, blood at his lips, with tears on his eyes, that he can't help but feel dread.

"Help."

That statement was enough to make them all roar. Red eyes widened, and without any warning, they all rushed at him.

POV. Red

Red had formulated a plan by the end of the week, with a lot of self-reflection, and reasoning, he had thought he had formed a marvelous proposal. But with Pikachu assisted by Venusaur's vine whip screeching at his face, lightning crackling at his cheeks. Venusaur and Blastoise were arguing, perhaps blaming each other for Red's behavior. Lapras and Espeon were eerily still, while Charizard wore a shell-shocked expression, as if someone had told him he'd never be able to fly again.

He thought he was doing them a favor, honestly. But clearly he hadn't seen this all through.

As for Snorlax, he was currently hugging him while simultaneously, trapping him in his arms. Even though Red was sure he couldn't escape, Snorlax thankfully have the insight to not squish him with full strength like last time, so that was a win for him.

'Such a gentle giant'

A small smile came to his lips unconsciously as he thought, but that only further infuriated the others. As evidenced Pikachu made an angry yowl, Charizard behind him and Venusaur and Blastoise screamed, Espeon clung to his legs, her nails sinking deep into his jeans, while Lapras stood at his side distressed.

He blinked.

'Well I didn't expect this.'

POV. Snorlax

Snorlax was completely unaware of what was going on. One moment they'd landed on Mt. Silver in a flash, battling wild Pokemon from every direction, believing that Red will give an explanation sooner or later. When they were wreaking havoc on the residents of Mt. Silver, Red appeared to be more alive, so they were overjoyed, but the next day, he reverted to his empty self.

Even though Pikachu had been the most prepared, he was saddened to see Red turn so hollow. Snorlax remembered Red as a quiet but optimistic young man, but as the pressures of becoming champion mounted, including harassment from former team rocket members and the demands of problems for him to solve, Red deteriorated into a shell rather than the brilliant young man Snorlax once knew.

Though it was tough to live in Mt. Silver, Snorlax reasoned that it was better for Red to live here than back where he was burning himself out.

He and the others had decided to allow Red some alone time in order for him to adjust his pace, because no matter how well Red pretended to be alright, humans and pokemon react differently in certain situations. He was helping Charizard cook some meat and berries for lunch at the end of the week when Red abruptly declared that he would be spending more time with them. Of course, he was ecstatic at first, looking forward at the opportunity to have more exquisite meals with Red and the others.

But then, he had announced that he will leave them all, Snorlax didn't want that, and he was glad the others agreed, so they all had charged at Red.

With Pikachu nagging in front of Red's at the top Blastoise's shell, accompanied by Blastoise's scolding, with Venusaur and Charizard arguing at the back, as Espeon climbed through Red's pants in order to reach his face, With Lapras trying to meditate the situation at the back.

He recalls searching for food from trashcan to trashcan as a baby Munchlax and he couldn't sleep or concentrate if he was hungry.

He despises himself for always going hungry, and wonders aloud what good eating is if he can't get full. As a Snorlax he remembers sleeping on the road, after a hearty meal he had stolen from the villagers, and waking up to a red-eyed child playing a horrible tune.

Snorlax recalls how confident he was, that he would not lose being bigger and more powerful being, but the child still managed to beat him, with a small but swift Pikachu, leaving him with damaged pride and the smell of ozone in the air.

In the end, it was his feeble pride that got him caught, so when the child opened Snorlax's pokeball, Snorlax ignored him because he was still nursing his bruised ego. Snorlax remembered how the child had offered him food despite the fact that he had already eaten a lot. While Snorlax was cramming his face with said food, the child managed to stroke him on the head with his tip-toes.

With his hat, vest, and finally, the sight of his eyes, Snorax can only think 'tamato berry'.

As he continued to offer Snorlax more berries, he merely said in a soft yet authoritative voice,

"Eat more, so you can grow up big and strong,"

The idea of Red abandoning them, means no more Red's head pats, soft praises, or smiles, no more of Blastoise and Venusaur's raucous antics, Lapras's soft singing or Espeon's charming antics, Charizard's steadfast silent presence, or Pikachu's haughty personality all of them gone-

Snorlax's suddenly felt dizzy, like when Espeon had used confusion on him.

The thought of leaving makes him tighten his grip on Red. He doesn't want this to end, doesn't want the others to leave, doesn't want to struggle to survive out of trashcans, and doesn't want to leave Red behind-

He wants to have more meals with everyone.

His mind wanders back to a meal made by Red, after finishing training that day. The fire crackles with the help of Blastoise's gathering of wood and Charizard's flame, and Venusaur handing out meal's to everyone with his vine whip, alongside Lapras's using Life dew to restore everyone's health. Pikachu and Espeon had played charades, which caused everyone laugh, even though Red only offered a faint smile.

His tummy felt warm at the time, and it wasn't because of the supper Red had made.

He thinks back to that time, and thought-

'I don't want this to end.'

With a heavy sniffle, Snorlax started to cry so hard that the other's had to stop what they were doing and came over to him. Upon feeling something against his cheek, he peeked. With the rest shooting anxious glances, there was Red, wiping his tears with a handkerchief. Snorlax recognized the handkerchief, as Snorlax wasn't the cleanest eater, Red would wiped him down with it, frequently to clean him of crumbs, gently instructing him too eat more slowly, as to not choke on his food.

"Slow down, there's no need to rush. There's still plenty of food around," As Red wiped crumbs off Snorlax's face.

Snorlax simply smiles toothily at him.

His eyes welled up with tears and he embraced Red even more tightly. In response, Red could only panic, wondering what had happened to Snorlax. As he continue to dab Snorlax's tears away with his handkerchief.

'Did he eat something wrong again?'

'Is he feeling unwell, from staying in Mt. Silver too long?'

'What's wrong?'

As countless scenarios flashed across Red's mind, Espeon who was climbing through Red's back, began to cry as well, seeing the usual friendly Snorlax, who rarely cried, made her cry as well.

Red was surprised when Espeon started crying as well. Having raised Espeon from a young Eevee, he instinctively grabbed her by the scruff of her neck and cradled her in one of his arms while gently wiping Snorlax's tears away with the other.

He pressed Espeon close to his chest, as he started to rock her back and forth, in hopes she would calm down. Unfortunately it only caused her to cry further.

Pikachu who was standing at Blastoise's shell can only remain still, at seeing Red's wide eyed response in endeavoring to calm down both Snorlax and Espeon.

'Why do you still treat us with such care if you want us to leave?' Pikachu snarled at Red, who explained that they were going to leave him behind in order to find a better trainer.

Right now, he was tempted to use Thunder punch on said 'trainer'.

Pikachu may have been biased, but he knew Red was the best trainer out there-

As he hugged Pikachu tighter to his chest, he could feel Red's heart beat become frenzied.

With such a calm expression on his face, he had ordered "Pikachu." Pikachu would think his serene face was genuine if he hadn't heard his frenzied heartbeat.

"Pikapi?"

Because of Red, he had extremely high standards-

He'd given Pikachu his belt, which was stuffed with Pokemon balls, where the others were.

"When I sprint to that corner, you have to run through that empty lobby and beyond the entryway, okay?"

Pikachu had nodded dumbly at the time, unaware of the gravity of the situation.

"I have a note in my belt that I need you to deliver to the police. Can you do that, Pikachu?" Red petted Pikachu's fur in an attempt to relax him or Pikachu, he couldn't tell which.

"Pika!"

("Yes!")

Red who had rarely spoke had only talk when there was something important going on.

He doesn't want a weak trainer, only relying on advantages and disadvantages. But to bring out the best them of them, like Red-

Pikachu can only stare blankly at Red's crimson orbs with one final look and a confusing face.

The thought of another trainer having Pikachu or the others, brings him physical pain-

His eyes blazed brightly through Pikachu's. Red flashed a bright grin.

He couldn't bring himself to care for another trainer than Red-

"Pikachu, I love you."

He felt himself being lifted to a warmth chest, as crimson orbs gazed at him worriedly. He hadn't realized he had been crying, but with Red's eyes he could see his reflection back as tears run down his cheeks. Pikachu can only cried silently with Espeon, Snorlax, wailing on the background and at some point Blastoine had joined in the fray as well, with Lapras cooing sadly at the back, her head hung low.

POV. Venusaur

Red forbids them from eating commercially produced Pokemon food, believing that meals should be both nutritiously healthful and delicious. As a result, Red prepares all of their meals and snacks by hand. Venusaur is privately pleased with this, for his old trainer had frequently used commercially produced Pokemon food, which, while wonderful, had become monotonous after repeated use. Thankfully, Red had a knack for cooking, to which Venusaur had no complaints.

'No trainer' Venusaur laments 'would take on such a difficult work every day if it weren't for love.'

As a Bulbasaur, he remembered waking up early to sun-bathe in the morning sun, followed by Red, who would wake up early to make breakfast for them, while discreetly allowing Bulbasaur to sample the dish he had prepared.

He wonders if his old trainer would have treated him as well as Red.

He remembers back when he was just Bulbasaur, a small little thing that had been picked by a trainer with brown skin, chestnut hair and honey eyes, with a smile that screamed mischief.

His name was Lex.

Lex was a bright young boy who was constantly up to mischief, yet he had a great heart and a desire to become a Pokemon master.

He can't help but overlap dimpled smile that screams mischief, when he sees Red's gentle smile-

"Hey! Bulbasaur, me and you were gonna be the best!" says the crouching boy in front of him. As he hugs Bulbasaur's tightly against his chest.

"I'm so happy, I get to meet you, Bulbasaur!"

Bulbasaur can't help but respond with an equal tone of excitement. Lex spins Bulbasaur's body with such excitement, honey eyes glimmered with innocence as they met with Bulbasaur's ruby eyes.

"Bulbasaur!"

("Nice to meet you too!")

He remembers having to keep Lex from wreaking too much havoc in the neighborhood.

"Thanks for the save, buddy!" Lex had laughed, as his feet dangling upside-down with Bulbasaur's vine whip.

"Saur!"

"Oh, please! That old coot deserves it-"

Lex had intended to go on a journey but had to care for his sick grandma, he recalls.

"I'm sorry, Bulbasaur. But I promised my abuelita I would take care of her." when he had saw trainers departing that day.

"Saur…"

"But, don't you worry! By the end of this month my abuelita would get better! Then finally you and I could go journey together!" Lex had pushed himself up since pessimism didn't suit someone as bright as him.

"Saur!"

"Thank you for being so understanding, Buddy!" Lex gave him another of his blinding smiles as he stood there watching.

He recalls longing that the end of the month would come quickly, so that he and Lex could go on adventures together.

Then one day before the end of month something drastic had happened.

His honeyed eyes, which had once been full with innocence, had become dimmed. As the people outside stir looking for them, Bulbasaur can only quiver in dread in Lex's arms.

With fractured bones, ribs that have been damaged, and blood dripping from his lips-

With a ragged breath, Lex said.

Bulbasaur's ruby dread eyes met his honey eyes glimmered with hope.

"Live"

And with loud one boom everything had turned white.

Looking back Venusaur wanted to stay near Lex's body but being unable to do so, for fear of being discovered. As he runs, he looks for help from anyone from the neighborhood to help Lex, because he refuses to believe Lex is dead-

-When he first arrived, he wished that someone could put an end to this nightmare.

He notices a pile of bodies in the neighborhood, as someone throws a body to the luminous fire, which he recognizes as the old coot Lex loves to taunt, the little girl who would always shriek with delight every time when she saw Bulbasaur her face etched in such despair as she died, and the bloodied figure of the strict older woman who would always chastise Lex for his pranks, but smiled when she thought no one was watching-

Bulbasaur observes with wet eyes, a man laughs gleefully, as if the nearby corpses meant nothing to him.

To those who will do everything for evil, the lives of innocent people are meaningless.

Bulbasaur never knew he could hate someone this much, thumping like a drum in his heart, he gazes at the large red R and thought to himself as tears fall down his cheeks.

'I'll kill you.'

With that, he aims to convince Red to see things his way, whether he likes it or not. He's already had one home taken away from him, so he doesn't need to lose another.

POV. Red

Red fights the impulse to wince as Venusaur's sorrowful wail reverberates through the tunnels, straining his ear. He notices Venusaur, who is normally calm, staring at him with such intensity as if pleading Red to comprehend.

When Venusaur's ruby orbs were filled with such agony. He could only see a younger version of himself begging his dad to return, begging him to understand.

'Oh'

"I'm sorry, Red."

"You don't want to leave me?"

He hadn't meant to say it aloud, but the sheer disbelief of them not wanting to leave him is foreign to him, because he had previously believed he wasn't a good trainer, a good person, or a good friend-

As furious emerald eyes, screamed furiously at him-

Numerous Pokemon corpse's on pile-

The horror on strangers face when they meet his eyes-

Snorlax had simply wept harder, making his face even redder, Pikachu and Espeon who were at his arms, merely shouted out in rage.

While he numbly peered back at his Venusaur, guilt and disbelief churned within him.

Charizard, who stood in front of him, had an exceedingly enraged expression on his face, anger burning in his blue eyes, like a tempest. He was snarling heavily whilst smoke began to issue from his maw, which he recognized as the start of a flamethrower growing in Charizard's mouth. Venusaur and Blastoise who were at the side immediately subdued Charizard, in fear of Charizard hurting Red. With Blastoise using his large size and Venusaur with his Vine whip.

As dirt and smoke enveloped his face and the thick damp in the air, Charizard screamed ferociously at him. With his bewildered ruby eyes, he peered back at Charizard's stormy blues.

In his father's gaze, Red saw how disheveled and brash he was. He pleaded with him to turn back, to not leave them behind.

He watches his father leaving the house, the image of his broad back burned in his mind.

"...You really don't want to leave me?" Not only Charizard shouted, but all of them roared as well, and their sounds echoed through the mountains caves, rattling the earth and hurting his ears even more.

His ears were becoming increasingly irritated.

"...oh."

Pikachu and Espeon were pawing at his chest with tears in their eyes, Snorlax was straining his neck to look down on him, and Lapras, who was usually mild-mannered looked like she was about to throw tantrum.

He lets out a choked sob, "...Oh," as he struggles to keep his tears at bay, he hadn't cried like this since he was a child. 'You still are,' a voice in his head gently reminds him.

Red felt a quiver on his lips while tears began to fall and he tried to swallow back his sob. Red was always a silent crier, with no voice screaming out and simply the trembling of his shoulders, Espeon purrs at his chest for diversion, and Pikachu licking his tears away. His Pokemons encircle him, and he hugs them while muttering choked sorry's and thank you's throughout the day.

Green, his father and mom may not have understood him, but his Pokemon did. Red, who had yearned for people's understanding, had never felt more grateful than at this moment. When he slept with his Pokemon while huddling for warmth that night, the thought of them actually wanting to stay with him makes his insides feel all warm.

He hadn't felt this warm in a long time.

POV. Espeon

She recalls when she was just a tiny Eevee, the runt of the litter. She was pathetic, as her had mother scorned, because of her diminutive stature and subservient manner. Her biological mother, having given birth to such a pitiful creature, would electrocute her at the first opportunity.

A proud Jolteon had given birth to her, her father a powerful Alakazam. Together they made 5 eggs. She was the weakest of all the eggs, because of her immaturity, her mother forbade her to drink from her milk. The proud Jolteon regretted ever giving birth to her, and she wishes she hadn't been born to a mother like her.

By scavenging leftovers from her siblings and scraps from other Pokemon, through sheer hard will, she managed to survive.

After feeling tormented by her siblings and unable to receive love from her birth mother, she decided to leave her home one day.

As she ran, she thought about how much food she could get, how freedom is so beautiful, hoping she would finally be freed from constant torment.

Oh, how foolish she was.

Despite her happiness, she became disoriented while looking for food she had no idea she was approaching an Ekans's area when foraging for food, as she lacked the power or training to penetrate such territory. She remembered how the Ekans had quietly approached her, so she turned back without any worry. As she did, the Ekans had used intimidation, and Eevee was paralyzed by fear.

'Instead of dying at the hands of her own mother, she would die at the hands of a stranger,' she remembered thinking as the Ekans crept closer to her.

She isn't at ease with either of them.

Then she heard a loud "CHUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!" nearby the adrenaline was wearing off from the Ekans's Intimidation, watching yellow creature crash into the Ekans, leaving them with numb ears and paralyzed vision. She can't help but collapse, but she remembers seeing a red glow before her vision turned black.

She remembers waking up in a chamber with harsh light and white walls. She feels stuffy like she can breathe with her foggy vision and hazy thoughts, but there's something making her feel strange. Like the time she was so hungry that she ate a rotting Larvesta's carcass, which was still warm despite the fact that it was dead. Rich silk surrounds her entire body, since she has no strength in her limbs and only rust in her bones, so she can only hope for a merciless death from her captors.

While she fought to move, a boy dressed entirely in red, as if representing blood emerged from the front entrance, holding a bottle of milk.

Eevee recalls her mother telling her about human hunters who skinned them alive and sold them for a dime.

Of how ruthless and cold those people are.

She wonders if her mother was one in her previous life.

Within minutes, he was by her side, and placed her in the crook of his arm. He gently moved her like she were something precious, that Eevee has no idea how to react, leaving her mouth gaping open in surprise and with a bottle he begins to put the nipple in Eevee's mouth.

She recalls absorbing the milk that Red fed her, which she had been denied since birth.

An echo of her mother's growl echoed in the laughter of her siblings.

Fearing she would be denied this luxury, she continued to suck the bottle greedily, she felt something slide across her face, but like a ferocious Ponyta she kept on drinking. In a blink of an eye, the milk was gone.

As though a torrent of memories of her childhood attacked her head, she remembered how there was never enough food and how the continual pestering was so destructive.

She hadn't realized that her face was wet.

"Crying won't get you anywhere," Mother said clearly in her ear. She didn't say anything but sobbed in response.

"Stop being such a crybaby!" Eevee had barely managed to keep her tears at check as Mother roared and lightning crackled around her.

"It's fine if you cry, you've been brave for a long time."

She couldn't help but whimper as the quiet boy remarked in such a loving tone, as he brought her another bottle of milk. She took in how warm it was, and she couldn't help but whimper.

A vivid image of her mother attempting to electrocute her alive flashed before her eyes, yet she remained stubbornly alive.

"Pathetic."

Every time she pleaded for aid, her father gave her the cold shoulder.

Cold eyes that never appear to be alive.

Her siblings were always teasing her.

She was bloodied, filthy, and soiled as she lay on the ground, as they finished toying with her-

Her memories of her family were interrupted by a soft voice that sounded stern.

"I'll take care of you."

As he replied, his eyes flashed vivid colors of crimson and he smiled softly. Empathetic to someone as pitiful as herself, she couldn't help but tear up because no one had ever looked at her like that before.

He was distressed by her sudden outbursts and tried to console her by holding her close to his chest and rocking her back and forth.

'Can someone as pathetic as her, is allowed to be care of?'

As she sobbed more tears, she couldn't help but notice how warm this person is.

It still embarrasses Espeon every time she recalls of how she had reacted back then.

Red was everything to her, a mother, a father, a friend-

Espeon used to think he was as big as the moon.

He's like dusk in the early hours of the morning. He would stay by her side all night, sheltering her safe from nightmares, teaching her to fight, and lavishing her with love and compassion.

'I will be his continuous friend, fighting and loving with everything I have.'

As she bites on his fingers, he laughs, and Eevee's ears ping with delight. As he plays with her paws, she can't help but shriek with delight. Red's laughter is addicting, like the time Red had visited a festival, with her in his arms, as she saw those strange wood-like instruments being played by people as they sing and dance.

Eevee was perplexed as to how they were able to create such beautiful sound.

"My charming Eevee," he said, and her heart warmed. His eyes and tone were so full of love that she couldn't help but lick his fingers while listening to Red's laughter reverberate in the breeze under the scorching sun.

'Because the moon has given me solace, I will serve as his sun.'

Eevee had transformed into Espeon and charged right into Red's arms.

Espeon can't help but cling to Red's chest as a tiny child does to a parent, as she reminisces fondly at that memory. Despite her hatred for her birth mother, she can't help but thank her every day for giving birth to her, will always be thankful as Red welcomes her with a small smile and a loving pat on the head, the next day.

Even if Red no longer wants to be with her, she will travel to the ends of the earth to be by his side.

POV. Blastoise

He recalls being a handful, and thank Arceus Red took care of him instead of abandoning him like his last trainer.

He was initially introduced to a trainer when he was a Squirtle, who he can't recall its name anymore. But he remembers the first trainer as a spoiled brat who was always so demanding but never gave anything back in return, and he despises the idea of being subjected to such barbarity. So he causes mischief, which was entertaining at the time but ultimately led to his disownment.

Blastoise recalls being passed from one trainer to the next in the hopes of curing his erratic behavior and enhancing his abilities. He despises the thought of being fixed when there isn't even a problem with him. Instead, he believes the trainers are the ones with a problem.

After all the mischief he had caused, it was only a matter of time before it came back to bite him in the arse. When he saw the angry officer Jenny and a bored looking child with a leering Pikachu standing next to him, he thought Red would be an identical trainer to his previous ones. But as he spent more time with Red and traveled with him, he discovered that, unlike his previous trainer and any other trainer he had met, he was not a loud and rowdy individual. Red was the only person he'd ever met who was so eerily quiet that he sometimes forgot he was even there at times.

He possesses the patience and calmness that others his age lack, allowing him to excel as a Pokemon trainer and master, as opposed to prior trainers who could only scream commitment with greed on their tongue and failed to see the bigger picture. Red never speaks but when he does, he never backs down from his statements, unlike his past trainers hollow promises, he makes sure to maintain his few words.

And one of the things that Blastoise admires about Red is how he considers each Pokemon as an individual. Red never treats them with contempt, no matter how limited their speech or knowledge is. Instead, treats them with kindness and an opportunity to discover themselves.

After being labeled as problematic so many times, Red just stated that he was "mischievous." Red never tries to change his personality; instead, he nurtures it in different ways, but he does put limits on his antics when they go out of hand. As a Squirtle, he's always been curious and wants to know more, but Red only diverts his focus away from the constant trouble he's up to. Squirtle's fascination began with mundane things, such as watching TV while resting at a Pokemon Center, it progressed to commercials when they came, and the papers Red used to buy them food items.

Red had seen his curiosity and gently taught him how to communicate in human language. Despite the fact that Squirtle couldn't speak human language at the time, he could understand and write it.

When they were fighting another opponent, for example, if they said 'flamethrower,' Blastoise would automatically respond with Water gun, because he understood human language and had the freedom to choose what move to use, Blastoise would come up with the most unforeseeable antics, allowing them to win the match, or Red would seize control in the hopes of saving his arse.

In any case, having some creativity in the fight was a welcome change from Venusaur's dullness.

He remembers heading to Red's commands for the first time, manages to defeat against a disadvantage type. He could only stand there blankly still not understanding his first victory, because his former trainers would always blamed him for losing, despite the fact that he had heed to their commands. Red, on the other hand, was a different story. He felt Red's hands on his head, and instead of his normal stony expression, he saw Red's proud gaze.

No matter how many times Pikachu teases him. He denies the blush that crept across his cheeks at the time.

Everything was different with Red, and he welcomed it wholeheartedly. He would train in the morning, relax in the afternoon, and learn all new words at night with Red's soft voice and helping hands. Red's comments would be absorbed by him and the others since he only speaks when it's vital, so they absorbed all the information that came from his mouth. As their curiosity and knowledge expanded, it aided him and the others in better understanding Red, for Red strangely understood them despite the language barrier, and they wanted to understand him as well.

With Charmander and Pikachu seeking for combat, Bulbasaur eager for vengeance, Eevee searching for a home, and him hungry for knowledge, he gets a taste of what connection and comradeship feel like in this messed up version of a family.

While Red had always maintained a good poker face, his anxiety was evident through the way he never looked at anyone on the eye, the way he kept searching for the nearest exit whenever one or two people approached him, the subtle tension in his shoulder whenever he was in a crowd. With them, he relaxes, the smell of fear was gone and the aura around him is tranquil. It feels strangely gratifying to know Red would expose himself so openly to them.

It's all wonderful, but good things don't last forever, especially with Team Rocket on the rise, people demanding for Red to solve all of Kanto's problems, and Green's one-sided rivalry with Red. He wonders how the people that surround them believe they are virtuous, as they encircle Red without realizing they are putting strain on his shoulders. He learns that the people around him are the ones who are messed up, not him nor Red.

According to Charizard, who had met Red at the start, the light in Red's eyes gradually diminished as he burned brighter than the flames around them.

"It's as if Red was born in a blazing house, and the people around him didn't burn as much because Red didn't understand he was burning brighter than everyone else, leaving nothing but ash in his wake,"

Blatoise couldn't help but stare at Charizard when he uttered such things, thus he couldn't keep back the retorts that came out of his mouth. "Coming from you, I couldn't believe you have the capacity to say such things," he also dodges the impending flamethrower, as he sprints to Red in the hopes of finding some form of  safety from his reptilian friend.

But he can't help but agree with Chaizard's remarks, so even though Red had given up his title, he was glad that Red brought them to Mt. Silver; he doesn't want to think about what would have occurred if Red hadn't brought them there.

They began live inside the tunnels of Mt. Silver with the hot springs inside the cave, items Red receives every month, and Red's initial training plan, which he devised after learning they still wanted to be with him the day before.

Charizard was Monday, Blastoise was Tuesday, Venusaur was Wednesday, Lapras was Thursday, Espeon was Friday, Pikcahu was Saturday, and Snorlax was Sunday. Even though they would always train or rest all together on Sundays.

It was, on the whole, a nice experience. With excellent training, good food, and lovely companion, Blastoise has nothing to complain.

On the other hand, he grows bored when he has nothing to do, and boredom is bad for the folks who dwell around him. He'd matured a little, but that didn't change the fact that he was still the cheeky Squirtle Red had met.

So he'd recruited Charizard and Venusaur to compete in a four-legged race. Venusaur was the simplest to persuade because he and Blastoise had always had a rivalry within the team, and would never missed an opportunity to flaunt victory in his face.

Charizard...was a little more challenging. He wasn't the kind to be swayed by childish competition, but Blastoise knew that Charizard, as a member of a champion's team, despised losing. So it was only a matter of time before they got Charizard riled up and agreed to play in the match with a little prodding and taunting.

It was the only time him and Venusaur had ever joined forces.

They unanimously agreed that Red should be the referee, as last time Snorlax was the referee, he hadn't noticed who had won because he had fallen asleep. They waited attentively at the snowy road before sprinting with a piercing whistle from Red.

Bystanders are currently located on the side of the race. Snorlax was resting on the snow with drool on his face, while Lapras softly cheered him on, pleading with him not to humiliate the Water-types, Pikachu shouting at the top of his lungs, demanding Charizard to bring victory, and Espeon jumping back and forth to show her support to Venusaur.

In the end, Venusaur triumphed, but that was to be expected given that he has had to walk on four legs since he was an insufferable Bulbasaur. Blastoise is unconcerned about the loss because the sight of an enraged Charizard was priceless.

Blastoise laughed so hard that he fell on his shell and couldn't get back up, and cries thanks to the yellow rats' shouts in perfect unison with Charizard.

"How dare you bring shame within the team!"

"Your title as Red's strongest pokemon should have been revoked this instant!"

"Oh, You little-!"

At the intensifying conflict between Charizard and Pikachu, who had both appeared in the snow as Heatwave and Thunderbolt, they all scattered in different directions. Blastoise was certain he would either die of laughter or by their hand, if not for Red's defense.

After that, Charizard had carefully trained in the art of walking on all four legs, and he was honestly surprised that he and Venusaur hadn't been burned to a crisp by the number of times they had laughed at Charizard throughout his training.

But Blastoise, was no coward, as evidenced by the number of times Charizard hurled his flamethrower at him.

It was so worth it.

He's grown. They've all grown because one person decided to take care of them instead of ignoring them. Pokemon and humans mature differently, so seeing Red, who used to tower over him as a child, barely reach his chest, seemed strange.

'It's part of growing up to notice that your parent(caretaker?) is noticeably smaller than you are' He'd seen that sentence in a book called 'How to Care for Younglings' while he was still a Squirtle sitting on Red's lap trying to decipher the words on the page.

He views Red as he stroll with Pikachu and Espeon close behind, hoping that one day he may be able to repay Red's kindness tenfold.

Red beckons Blastoise over, sensing his attention, and invites him to walk over. In the pearly bank of the snow, Espeon and Pikachu began chasing each other. As he looks back on the youth who had taken him under his wing, Blastoise returns a fond smile to Red. As the onset of Moltres delivers spring shows in the valley, he walks with Red by his side.

'Thank you.'

POV. Lapras

Red lets them enjoy hobbies, to pursue their interests, searching for anything that would be delightful or amusing for them, but Lapras has never had a trainer and Silph Company has never permitted such independence.

She is unfamiliar with such things.

As she laments, Lapras gazes upon Red's assisting Snorlax with his knitting, she wonders if all trainers indulge their Pokemon in this way or is it just him? Gazing at Red who was feeding multiple berries, to Snorlax, who was knitting a red blanket in tight concentration.

Lapras remembers the time when Red brought them to the beach to train, while Blastoise and her had went for a swim, she had asked Blastoise of what his old trainer was like, he scoffed and said,

"A prissy little twat who would whine at everything."

When she asked if he was anything like Red, Blastoise paused in his swimming and stated solemnly, "Red's one of a kind." Then proceed to fire a destructive Hydro  Pump at the enraged sunbather in the sand.

In fact, she is stumped as she has no idea what to do, with limited hobbies appropriate for her limbs and demeanor, but Red has been patient. He allows her to try new things in order to discover something with in which she could be comfortable with.

Lapras is grateful to have such an understanding trainer.

Lapras and Blastoise had accompanied Red to go ice fishing one day. Blastoise, a voracious reader, recommended that she try doing ice sculpture. She accepted as she had lots of time on her fins, thinking of it as an activity to pass the time.

Although it appeared to be a simple task, it wasn't.

Unfortunately, Lapras who didn't know how to control her ice beam to a smaller degree, in an attempt to construct a Pokeball sculpture or something small for a first try.

It was disastrous.

The ice had exploded, scattering its bits all over the place. Blastoise who had managed to reach Red first, used his shell as a shield to protect them both, while Lapras had swiftly dodge its remaining attacks.

Lapras was nervous as she hopped and hurriedly trotted towards Red, praying to Arceus that no injuries had occurred. Blastoise was anxiously fretting over Red, but with a swift pat on the head, Red informed him that everything was fine, to which Blastoise quickly pretended not to let his worry show.

When Lapras appeared, Blastoise had that particular look on his face that he only reserved only for lectures. Thankfully, Red rushed to her side just as Blastoise was about to open his mouth, seeking for any injuries.

Red may appear unconcerned to those who don't know him well, based on his appearance. But, as his Pokemon, Lapras can tell he is concerned, the way his eyes assessing any wounds, his hands ceaselessly searching for any injury, and the concern flowing from his stance.

Red smiled and let out a small sigh once he had discovered no injuries. Lapras lets out a small coo indicating her regret as he reached over and touched her face. Red accepts her apology with a nod and began to caress her face, in attempt to simmer the adrenaline down.

They could communicate perfectly even if they didn't have to use words.

She recalls a time when the others were envious her ability to flawlessly converse with Red. Even Pikachu, who had spent the most time with Red, was jealous, of how easy it was for her to understand Red.

Lapras can't help but believe Red's eyes are very appealing, even after seeing it innumerable times. As the sun rose beyond the horizon, they appeared to be blazing.

With a small smile, Red shows her something in the palm of his hand, with Blastoise lurking from behind. Blastoise stared wide-eyed at Red's blank face, as Lapras blinked. It appeared that Red had managed to catch one of the ice shards as it went by.

Lapras understood what Red meant as he tilts his head and grabs the ice shards tightly in his fists.

("Would you like to give another shot?")

Lapras nods hesitantly, communicating the content of Red's action to Blastoise. Blastoise advised that Red be kept at a safe distance in case he was accidentally hurt. As Blastoise and Red moved further away from her on the ice lake, she notes Blastoise's subtle position of defending Red with his shell in case the shards got to them again.

'It's better to be safe than sorry,' she reasoned. As she begins her second Ice beam with a thumbs up from Red.

She hadn't anticipated the Ice beam to erupt in front of her face on the second try. She doesn't need to look at Blastoise's face to know that he's laughing at her, accompanied by Red's mute worry.

'At least Pikachu isn't here.'

She consoled herself, but she recalled Blastoise being around, who would certainly inform the yellow rat.

'Joy.' Her mood had suddenly deteriorated, further.

By the fourth try, she had succeeded in retaining the shape of the Pokeball, earning a loud cheer from Blastoise and applause from Red. Red gave her a burnt berry in the third try, and Lapras softly thanks him in gratitude. She was tempted to chuck said Pokeball down on the chilly lake's surface, huffing at its pathetic state.

Ice Beam is an Ice-type attack that can be used to assault and freeze opponents, whilst Ice Shards hurls pieces of ice at them. So she had to choose the former, using the Ice Beam too mold it into the desired shape while avoiding freezing it into a block of ice, she'll be happy if she can mold the ice by manipulating the wave of the Ice beam. But she had no idea how to do so.

At first, she considered requesting that Blastoise use Bubble beam to freeze the bubble in the desired state. After some consideration, she decided to do it herself because it is her pastime and she should do it herself.

Red's proud grin was a nice touch.

POV. Charizard.

He gradually recognized that, unlike his joyful personality as a Charmander, he had progressively adapted to Red's instead. He doesn't mind, but every now and then he reverts to that pathetic Charmander who would do everything to gain Red's praise.

He discovered how skilled Red was in Pokemon battles as he grew over time. While others prefer to use disadvantage or advantage types, Charizard notice that Red prefers to use unique tactics to overcome fights, bringing out their full potential and enabling them to fight for themselves without command, allowing them to analyze the fighter's play style and to further develop their own way of thinking. Red's battle style is silent but violent, which suits Charizard and Pikachu immaculately as they attack their foes with glee.

He can't stop thinking about all the victories he's had, and he's hungry for more. With Red by his side, they've been able to reach new heights.

With Red everything was a first.

First trainer.

First victory.

First lost.

However, the greater the win, the more devastating the loss.

Giovanni had completely humbled him.

Charizard recalls the circumstances that led to his evolution, which he felt both proud of and resentful of.

They were easily defeated, with Giovanni easily overpowering him and Red having no power against a grown man.

"Run!" Red, who was fighting Giovanni's clutches, tried to warn Charmeleon to flee.

'You should be more concerned about yourself!' Charmeleon thought tiredly as he fought the urge to pass out from the weight of the fallen debris from the walls.

Giovanni hits Red in the face to make him stop, and he sees him effortlessly grip Red's neck and hang him over the balcony.

'No!'

As soon as Giovani lets go of his grip on his neck, Red plummets to the ground. And Charizard can only be terrified at the thought of what would happen if Red fell at that precise moment.

'Move! MOVE! MOVE!-'

As Red descended from the high building to the ground, Charmeleon had removed the fallen ceiling bricks from his back, and jumped off the building in a hurry to reach Red.

'No!'

The sight of Red, bloodied and bruised, barely hanging to consciousness, as he reaches out and grabs Charmeleon's equally battered one, hugs him close to his chest as they slowly await death on the ground.

Charmeleon knew when they hit the ground, Red will die however Charmeleon will survive.

His vision became clouded by white, and the furies of his rage swam beneath his scales.

'I refuse to be the sole survivor.'

As the roar of a powerful entity is evoked, a mighty dragon appears to oppose this kind of fate.

Red burns like a dying star, as the adults around him let him fade away.

He hopes Red could find solace in Mt. Silver.

Isn't it frightening to see dying stars? Do they fall to earth like comets and cause havoc? Or washed away in the dark, as their time is up?

Charizard who thrives in the heat of combat, whose cry reverberates with glee at the thought of a bloodbath and whose flames blaze with delight, observed how the fire in Red's eyes faded as he sank into a slump, with no one reaching out to help.

'Red, don't go where I can't follow.'

Blastoise was right. It was the people surrounding Red who were strange, not Red himself.

Or are they the odd ones who are concerned about Red's well-being?

He has no idea what caused Red to flee Mt. Silver, though he has some suspicions. He had discussed one of them with Pikachu, but Pikachu had just stated that Green was one of them. Charizard nods silently, but doesn't say anything because mentioning Green will enrage Pikachu even further, and there's no need to add fuel to the flames.

One of the factors was most likely Green.

Or maybe team rocket, ever since Red becomes champion, they were occasionally ambushed by ex-team rocket members, Charizard doesn't mind because he wants to see them try, and if they try to touch Red with their slimy fingers, it's their own fault if he shoots a giant flamethrower at them.

He has a feeling that getting stronger wasn't the real motive. Though battling wild pokemon was enjoyable, he had managed to sneak a peek inside Red's backpack while gathering provisions for Mt. Silver the night before they fled. Charizard didn't want to intrude on Red's privacy, but he was wary about Red's backpack.

He had persuaded Espeon to assist, but she, too, did not want to be subjected to Red's disapproving gaze. The opportunity will not present itself right now, but he hopes that one day he will be able to examine the bags closely.

His and Red's souls are soothed by their home life on Mt. Silver, which provides enormous delight to the rough surroundings of Mt. Silver, despite the piercing wind and white powder outside the cave, as the others huddle for warmth at his tail and Red by his side.

'This isn't bad,'

He sees Red clearly, but without the hollowness in his eyes, as he pats Charizard on the head and returns Charizard's affectionate stare. Charizard only grumbles contentedly when Red happily scratches the back of Charizard's head, where he was unable to reach.

Charizard who enjoys fight and the intensity of it, was relieved that he had traded battle for this simplicity. He hopes that one day that Red can regain his passion back.

Even though he no longer feels the thrill of war, that doesn't mean the fight is done. Red should take his time, as Snorlax says.

He pities those who are unable to fly since it is the most wonderful feeling in the world. So he lets Red mount on his back in the hopes that he will understand.

It was genuinely lovely when the sun set below the horizon as dusk approached, with the moon and sun preparing to switch places, as vivid orange turned to perfect ebony.

He's thankful for the wings on his final form.

He and Red would frequently rise before dawn in the hopes of catching a sight of the first rays of the morning sun. Venusaur would occasionally join them in the aim of basking in the sun in the freezing atmosphere atop Mt. Silver. The view from Mt. Silver is genuinely breathtaking; he never imagined such a severe environment could provide such a stunning panorama, truly a gift from nature.

Pikachu, Snorlax, and Blastoise would always complain about not getting enough sleep. Despite being newly awoken, Espeon was cheery undoubtedly pleased at the prospect of strengthening herself with a sunny day. Lapras would frequently fall asleep by accident but insisted on watching the sunrise.

He watches as the sun's warm beams bathe his friends in gold and glistening light. In the future, he hopes to continue seeing great things with everyone by his side.

POV. Red

Even as a young child, he can't turn a blind eye.

Green had once said he was too soft, but Red thinks that world is just too cruel.

Who will provide them justice and mercy in a world full of injustice? With their revolution, Team Rocket has shattered several peace within families.

'How can the heavens allow such atrocities to go unpunished?'

'Perhaps because it isn't of their concern.' In his thoughts, he heard a voice that sounded like a mix of Professor Oak and his mother. He doesn't refute or respond to the voice because he already knows the answer.

As Bulbasaur's furious gaze meets Red's apathetic one, he thinks-

'I'll help you grieve.'

And with that he had offered Bulbausaur to join his team.

'Before my heart becomes numb from the cold, I must become a kind person.' It benefited him when he offered his services to strangers in the hopes that they would notice his kindness rather than flinch at his unnerving eyes.

It helped somewhat, but people demand so much but never try to understand.

He believes that the thought of someone in need of love and someone who can provide love makes the world a little better.

It reminds him of his mother, who was unable to care for both him and herself due to her disorientation.

"I'll take care of you," he promises as he sees Eevee's face crumbling in sorrow.

He lets Eevee choose her form of evolution, and one day he showed Eevee the evolutions stone on his palm. But she just shook her head, and Red respects her decision, as a vision of Lt. Surge flashes across his mind. He probably spent too much time with Pikachu, but the thought of forcing it to evolve just because he wanted it does not bode well for him.

Imagine his surprise when Eevee ran straight into his arms after evolving into Espeon.

He doesn't want the spark in Squirtle's eyes to fade too quickly, so he chooses to keep him on his squad, no matter how mischievous he was at the time.

If Pikachu prefers to be outside rather than on his Pokeball, Red allows him to do so.

Because Snorlax was born with an insatiable appetite, he attempts to feed him more food so Snorlax doesn't hate himself for always going hungry.

When he was handed Lapras, he meant to return to let her return to the wild. He had managed to locate her home, but by the time they arrived, she had already lost both her family and her birthplace thanks to human greed. So, in this messed-up version of a family full of obstreperous pokemons and a mute boy, he invites her into the team in the hopes of her finding peace.

He lets them choose for he doesn't wish to deny them.

As he ventured deep within his journey, he discovered more about his Pokemon and more about his world.

As expected the world is truly cruel.

Pokemon cruelty, selfish individuals, and the rigorous training required to become a trainer.

In a mockery of his victory as champion, they had placed him as the strongest trainer in Kanto.

And as the strongest Kanto trainer they expected him to clean up their mess.

The body of a child, but the mentality of an adult. Despite his maturity, he is treated as a child but is expected to perform an adult's task.

He wished he could let have Green won the match.

Instead of cowering away from them like Red, he knows Green will thrive under their praise and exceed their expectations. The responsibilities of his job were manageable at first, but they gradually became more arduous for him, from assisting wild pokemons in returning home to preventing individuals from committing genocide with their pokemon.

'Age is irrelevant.' they say as they shove him into the terrorist, believing he'll be the key to solving everything. He notices the terrorist's eyes and has the impression that he, too, did not want to become like this.

It's strange how he felt closer to a terrorist than the people around him.

Then there was the request for the cerulean cave, where the unexplained reason for people's deaths increased as they went in.

Even Blaine and Mr. Fuji were urging him to assist.

He had an inkling, as to why they were pressing him to go rather than themselves.

'This is the cost of the spot you've snatched.'

Isn't he done fighting? He's done, right? He has to be.

The grownups in his life had claimed him as their salvation, but the monster they had created with their own hands had turned against them, leaving them with no choice but to beg him to understand.

He couldn't say no because of his role and the pressure he was under. Red marches towards the cerulean cave with a booming heartbeat and horror in his lungs.

He prays to Arceus that at very least, his Pokemon will remain unscathed.

He remembers staggering into the Pokemon Center and pleading the nurse Joy to help his pokemon, for it was their lives, not his, that were in danger.

While his pokemon relished the taste of victory, he pondered whether they really desire to fight.

They hadn't agreed to this, but they'd battled bravely because they'd lived up to what he wanted. He wouldn't mind putting his life on the line if it means protecting his pokemon, but if it meant saving his pokemon, Red would gladly trade his life for them.

'They were innocent. It was I who was guilty. So, if you have to take a life, take mine.' On his knees outside Venusaur's operating room, he prays to Arceus, ignoring the frantic Pokemon center employee's attempts to convince him that he must go to the hospital.

A weapon forged from human sin.

He remembers Mr. Fuji a man who offers homeless Pokemon a chance, to erase his past sin's and moreover re-erased his regrets. He remembered believing Mr. Fuji would go to hell knowing what deeds he had done while masking a gentle smile.

Pokémon are dangerous animals, but they aren't weapons. Treating any living being like a weapon is a sin.

Giovani had remarked that Red was similar to him, which made him want to vomit.

He'd prefer to be compared to a Pokemon than Giovanni.

He feels more connected to Pokemon than humans.

More of Pokemon than a human.

He can converse, but he prefers not to, and while it is more difficult with people, it is easier with Pokemon. When he sees people or tries to speak to them, his voice becomes clogged and unable to make a sound. It wasn't so difficult when he was younger, but now he prefers the silence.

He trusts his Pokemon, but that's about it.

He finds it easier to communicate with his Pokemon than with people he knows. It felt like a comedy act because of their limited vocabulary and Red's lack of voice. Green had laughed telling him that he couldn't tell who was the trainer and who was the Pokemon when watching him battle with Pikachu.

Even though his Pokemon doesn't mind his silence, that doesn't mean others do. While they don't mind that he doesn't talk, it doesn't mean he doesn't communicate with them. In contrast to others, Red's Pokemon require his understanding, and he gladly complies.

He knows that people are cruel. He tries to avoid conflict wherever possible. It doesn't end well for the other party.

He finds solace in his Pokemon, who are likewise seeking to find themselves while training and having fun together.

He counts back about how his Charizard had grown strong under his care, developing power and grace, while Red still sees the clumsy young Charmander who would frequently set things on fire, crying out in the hopes that Red wouldn't get angry at him.

He's glad Charizard grew up well despite being raised by him.

He isn't a good person, yet his pokemon have unwavering trust and love for him. Red aspires to meet their expectations.

There was so much life all around him, how could he hold on to petty feelings such as anger, hatred, and resentment?

There are a thousand lives, and life and death are inextricably linked, thus the prospect of meeting all of his Pokemon in this life fills him with joy.

As he stands in the freezing depths of Mt. Silver, he feels grateful for all of them. As he had found peace within Mt. Silver and regained his happiness within the world over the last three years, and the thought of everything having a place in the world brings him great comfort, as the signs of winter ending with his Pokemon by his side. With a little shove from Pikachu, Red sighs and pulls out the Pokeball with the large M in the center, bracing himself for the worst.

Pain was the last thing he felt before slipping into the blissful darkness of slumber.