Pokemon : Rewind

Ash and Rudy started chatting at the battle venue after their match. More often than not, Rudy sought advice from Ash, who readily answered his questions, helping Rudy gain a lot from their conversation.

"Master, the next challenger is here…" The staff gently reminded Rudy after the two had been talking for fifteen minutes. The battle venue was ready for the next match.

"So soon?!" Rudy exclaimed, startled. Time had flown by, and he sighed regretfully as he turned to Ash. "What a pity. I wanted to ask you more questions."

"There will be other opportunities. Didn't you already get my number?" Ash replied, holding up his communicator. During their chat, he had given his number to Rudy.

"Yes... there will be other chances," Rudy murmured, his gaze momentarily distant. He quickly recovered, smiled, and nodded at Ash before saying his goodbyes.

That evening, Ash was in the dormitory after dinner when his phone rang. Seeing the caller ID, he was surprised—it was Rudy.

"Good evening, Ash. Have you eaten yet?" Rudy's warm but slightly hesitant voice came through, as though he was worried about disturbing Ash's rest.

"Yes, I've already eaten," Ash replied. The two started chatting again, much to Tracey's surprise.

Rudy asked Ash for advice on various problems he had encountered as a Trainer. 

Having grown up on Trovita Island, Rudy lacked a mentor and hadn't traveled beyond the Orange Islands. His furthest trips were to nearby islands, so his experiences were limited.

Ash, however, had the privilege of learning from Professor Oak and discussing strategies with Brock. 

These resources allowed Ash to progress as a Trainer much more effectively than Rudy could.

"Thank you so much, Ash!" Rudy exclaimed as their conversation wrapped up around eleven o'clock. They had talked for nearly four hours, and Rudy felt he had gained a wealth of knowledge.

"You don't have to be so polite—we're friends now," Ash responded softly, lowering his voice so as not to wake Pikachu or Tracey, who were already asleep.

"By the way, Rudy, have you ever thought about venturing into the outside world?" Ash asked suddenly.

Rudy froze, falling silent for a moment. He had thought about it, but his younger sister was the reason he hadn't pursued the idea.

As a Gym Leader in the Orange Islands, Rudy's role was prestigious in name but limited in impact. The Orange League was widely seen as informal and less competitive compared to other regional leagues.

"No..." Rudy finally said, his voice tinged with reluctance. Though he smiled, it didn't quite reach his eyes.

"Is it because of... family?" Ash asked gently, recalling that Rudy had a younger sister. She hadn't been present at the Gym earlier but had appeared in the original story.

Rudy opened his mouth to deny it but couldn't. It was true—his sister was the reason he stayed. While he longed to explore the world, his duty to her kept him rooted.

"I think you should trust your family. If you're really worried, you could take her with you. Travel and experience life together," Ash suggested.

He mentioned how Clemont's younger sister, Bonnie, had traveled with them in the Kalos region. Despite her young age, Bonnie had never been a burden and even helped when needed.

"I'll think about it," Rudy said after a pause, Ash's words sparking a glimmer of hope. 

His sister was no longer as young as she used to be, and though it might be challenging, traveling together seemed feasible now.

"Good night, then." Ash nodded, sensing that Rudy's talent was too great to be confined to the Orange Islands.

"Good night..." Rudy replied before hanging up. He stared out the window at the moonlit ocean, the rhythmic sound of waves pulling him into deep thought.

"Brother…" A soft voice broke the silence. Rudy turned to see his sister, Mahri, standing at the door with her Dewgong doll.

"What's wrong, Mahri?" Rudy asked, his concern softening his voice.

"I can't sleep," Mahri murmured, clutching her doll tightly. At six years old, she was mature for her age but sometimes still sought comfort.

"Come here," Rudy said, motioning for her to join him.

Mahri climbed into his bed, her big, curious eyes fixed on him. "Brother, what were you thinking about just now?"

Rudy hesitated, then smiled gently. "Nothing important."

Mahri wasn't convinced. After a moment of silence, Rudy spoke again. "Mahri, what would you think if we left Trovita Island? If we left the Orange Islands altogether and traveled to other regions?"

Mahri's eyes lit up. "Are we going to the Shamouti Island celebration? Or maybe Little Orange Island?"

Rudy shook his head. "No, I mean leaving the Orange Islands entirely. I want to see the outside world and challenge the Leagues in other regions. But it would be a long and difficult journey."

Mahri tilted her head, processing his words. Then, her face broke into a wide smile. "Okay! Brother, I know you really want to be a great Trainer. Don't give up on your dream just because of me!"

Rudy was taken aback by her mature response. Since losing their parents, Mahri had grown up quickly. Though still a child, she understood his struggles more than he realized.

Tears welled in Rudy's eyes as he hugged her tightly. "Thank you, Mahri."

Mahri giggled. "I want to see the outside world too! So let's go together!"

Her words solidified Rudy's decision. His sister had grown more independent, and now, they could chase their dreams—together.

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