Pokémon Legends: Ash vs. Red

The sun hung low over the hills as Ash Ketchum stood at the edge of a dirt path, stretching his arms behind his head. Pikachu perched on his shoulder, ears twitching as a light breeze passed through the valley. They had been walking for hours, but Ash didn't feel tired—he felt energized.

"Alright, Pikachu! Another day, another adventure!"

"Pikaaa!" Pikachu agreed, sparks crackling from its cheeks.

It had been a whole year since he became World Champion after defeating Leon, and he had done exactly what he always planned to—keep going. He had no interest in staying in one place, holding exhibitions, or being some official figurehead. That wasn't Ash. He was still on the road, traveling from region to region, meeting new Pokémon, and challenging strong trainers.

But lately, something had been bothering him.

"Pikachu… do you think we're really getting stronger?"

Pikachu tilted its head.

"I mean, yeah, we're still battling tough trainers, but… I dunno. It's different. Something's missing."

Pikachu frowned in thought, then perked up, ears twitching at an approaching figure.

"Still chasing after something, huh?"

Ash turned to see Gary Oak leaning against a tree, arms crossed, wearing his usual smirk.

"Huh? Gary? What are you doing all the way out here?"

Gary shrugged. "I could ask you the same thing. You're the World Champion now, Ashy-boy. Shouldn't you be enjoying the perks? Y'know, fancy parties, big sponsorships, maybe even starting your own Battle Tower?"

Ash laughed, shaking his head. "Nah, that's not my thing. I just wanna keep battling and getting stronger!"

Gary sighed, shaking his head. "Figures. You're always running forward without knowing where you're going."

Ash frowned. "Hey, I know where I'm going! I just… haven't found the next big challenge yet."

Gary studied him for a moment before smirking again. "Then maybe I've got just the thing for you."

Ash blinked. "Huh?"

Gary's tone shifted, becoming serious. "Tell me, Ash—who's the strongest trainer in the world?"

Ash grinned confidently. "That's easy. It's me!"

Gary raised an eyebrow. "Oh yeah? Then why haven't you beaten Red yet?"

Ash's expression faltered for a split second.

Red.

The strongest trainer in Kanto. No—the strongest trainer. He had been Champion before Ash even started his journey, yet he never lost, never fell, and never looked back. Instead, he disappeared, training endlessly on Mt. Silver, where only the most powerful Pokémon roamed.

Red wasn't just a trainer. He was a legend.

Ash's grin returned, wider than before. "Now that… sounds awesome!"

Gary chuckled. "I figured you'd say that."

Ash clenched his fists, excitement buzzing through him. "Alright, Pikachu! Change of plans—we're going to Mt. Silver!"

"Pika-pi!" Pikachu cheered, sparks flying.

Gary sighed, watching Ash rush off toward his next challenge. "Man… he really never changes, huh?" But as he watched Ash's unshakable confidence, he smirked.

"Red… you better be ready. Ash Ketchum is coming for you."

And just like that, Ash was off—toward the greatest battle of his life.