The Adventure of a Life Time

"That's not right!" Pikachu stated.

"Stone's the leader here. Not much can be done."

"I think Pikachu could be a better leader." Ash stated.

Pikachu turned towards Ash, a bit surprised.

"Anyone would be a better leader than Stone," the old Pikachu replied.

"Then Pikachu shall."

"Isn't he your Pokemon?"

"Well...yeah..."

Palefur sat up from where he was laying. "And if he became leader of the village, he would have to stay here. You do realize this, yes? I sense that you two have a close bond.. There's no need to break that bond that you both share."

"He's right Ash," Pikachu stated.

The old Pikachu nodded and winked. "Elders know best," he chuckled.

Ash remained silent, as if he were thinking.

"However, in the end, it's your choice."

Ash did want what was best for these Pikachu and his own Pikachu. And he didn't want to hold Pikachu back, neither.

Palefur twitched one ear, watching the two of them.

"...I..."

"Mm? What's wrong?" Palefur asked.

"You better not leave me again!" Pikachu threatened, its cheeks sparking.

"Again?" the old Pikachu echoed. "This has happened before?"

That's when Pikachu explained what had happened when Ash was still a rookie.

Palefur nodded slightly. "Ah. I see."

"Yeah...."

"Don't worry too much about us. We're fine." the old Pikachu said, looking up at Ash.

"Are you?" Ash asked.

"Yes."

"Alright..."