REPAVED

"It made me think about what becoming a Pokémon Master means. Like… I really don’t even know what’ll get me there. I never really stop to think about it. It’s just my dream. What I know I’ll be, one day.”



hollylu-ships-it

Ash Ketchum
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 15-16
Hometown: Pallet Town
Profession: Pokémon Trainer,
Fledgling Aura Guardian

Ash is the same old Ash we've always known... But, that very fact has become troublesome for him.After four different regional conferences, and a particularly demoralizing loss at the Sinnoh League, Ash was left to wonder. Was he taking the right steps as a trainer? Was he really still just a naïve kid?These questions led him to the guidance of those around him, such as Professor Oak, Gary, and Riley, in matters of Pokémon training, and his equally trying journey to adulthood.After training on the arduous Mt. Silver, Ash has embarked on one more tour around the Kanto region to test his mettle with his many Pokémon at his side. With Pikachu, an eternally-ambitious Dawn, and his new Aura-wielding hatchling, Rosa, the Pride of Pallet will make strides in understanding the person he's growing up to be, as well as that age-old oh-so-important question:What is a Pokémon Master?

LukasThadeauArt

Peeks Ketchum
Species: Pikachu
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 10-11
Hometown: Pallet Town?
Profession: Caught Pokémon; Battler; Ash's second-in-command

As always, Pikachu continues to stand loyally at Ash's side as his best friend. But, that's not to downplay his own ambitions; he wants to become strong, too! He has his own pride as a battling Pokémon! There's no chance he'll stop at just a Latios.Pikachu doesn't find himself as troubled as Ash in this new adventure, at least at first. His biggest troubles include mediating a rowdy crowd of two teams of Pokémon as the resident level head, and well . . . Just one other problem.The ever-budding awkwardness between himself and Dawn's Buneary. After much time apart, she's back on the team, and more determined than ever to win her favorite mouse's enduring affections!Figuring out how he feels about her is enough of a challenge, but he finds himself to enjoy her company, more and more. Perhaps Ash isn't the only one with some self-discovery on the table!Of course, there's no guarantee that his problems will remain mundane. On their new journey, the group received a cryptic forewarning that he and Ash's friendship will be tested with a crisis. How concerning!Though, things have taken a turn for the worst lately, and he's suffered quite a bit, thanks to Team Rocket's latest, darkest schemes.
Trauma struck, Pikachu grapples with his fears and insecurities. But, at least he's not alone... Right?
In the wake of being officially turned to Ash, he committed to celebrating their reunion by being officially nicknamed Peeks. At least that's some sort of silver linining!It's a cute name, isn't it?The aftershocks of his trauma, however, aren't so cute. Peeks is diagnosed with PTSD, and though he insists that he can handle himself, the ripples begin to show. What will he do, when they come between him and the best friend he's ever had?

LukasThadeauArt

Rosemary Ketchum
Species: Lucario
Gender: Cis Female
Age: Several months
Hometown: Iron Island
Profession: Caught Pokémon; Battler, Fledgling Aura Guardian, Self-appointed Crusher of Bad Vibes

Some time over a year ago, a mysterious egg appeared in the Sinnoh region. No caretakers or breeders were able to urge it to hatch, no matter what they tried.
The egg was unresponsive. Little did they know, it hadn't found its home.
It came into the possession of Riley, after feeling the acute dormant Aura of a Riolu. He feared it would never bloom into a full life, but that all changed during Team Galactic's assault on his home. After coming into contact with Ash Ketchum, Riley noticed that the egg started showing signs of life for the first time.Riley brought Ash under his tutelage; to hatch this mysterious Riolu egg. Within less than two weeks, the egg finally hatched. A star was born.Upon Riley's suggestion, she was christened with the name Rosemary, based on the stubborn flower that persisted even through Iron Island's less-than-habitable conditions. Like them, Rosemary outlived adversity.Rosa, as she was affectionately dubbed, proved to be just as stubborn as her Papa. Battle-hungry, proud, and quite picky, she proved to be a handful even as a small baby. She's easily overwhelmed by external stimuli; which is quite troublesome for a Riolu; and gets very picky about her food is presented. If it's touching, no sale!Rosa's also dedicated to becoming stronger, and very keen to strategy as she observes it. She enjoys analyzing Dawn's Contests, and even starts developing her own strategies and moveset possibilities over time!After a mysterious series of dreams, Rosemary evolved into a full-fledged Lucario. Peculiarly, her stubbornness and heroic tendencies remind Ash a bit of an old, departed friend. She also has an odd love for chocolate...More concerningly, she's taken up the self-appointed mantle of supporting Ash and his mental burdens. Believing herself a responsible adult, she pushes him harder, and herself with him. This leads the both of them to heartbreak and confusion, and may even do the same for their dear friends...

Gary Oak
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 15-16
Hometown: Pallet Town
Profession: Pokémon Researcher,
Gym Leader

Long after his rivalry with Ash ended in defeat and a friendly parting, Gary moved on to the ever-expansive field of Pokémon Research, eventually working under the robust and wise Professor Rowan. But, even with his new goal and his new lifestyle, Gary never quite stopped giving Ash a push, whenever his friend needed it.After the Lily of the Valley, Gary nudged Ash to consider the feelings of his many other Pokémon who had loyally waited for him at home. Though, he didn't push too hard; in his words, how Ash takes a nugget of wisdom and applies it would decide who he is as a trainer.After Ash's training at Mt. Silver and on Iron Island, another chance encounter leads Gary to suggest that Ash gleam some more wisdom from Kanto's Gym Leaders, and request to face them at their full power. What could have given Gary this idea...?Well, guess what? Ashy-boy was in for a real surprise, this time. Gary reveals himself to be the Viridian City Gym Leader, at the end of Ash's road to completing the Gym Challenge!He received an offer from Agatha and the League to take her place, and after conversing with Ash, he decided that helping trainers connect with their Pokémon and improve was a fine way to learn more about Pokémon, himself. He stands as Ash's final test before the Indigo Plateau; if Ash doesn't stand to grow from their battle, than his decision to join will have been pointless!

Lhzur

Dawn Tsumura
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 13-14
Hometown: Twinleaf Town
Profession: Pokémon Coordinator, Poké Stylist

“ No need to worry! ”Yeah, yeah, that's when everyone worries the most. But, bear with her here. Dawn's hit a rut, since her break from her internship with Paris. Everyone's out progressing towards their goals. What about her!?Well, Dawn seized a golden opportunity when Ash happened to come through Twinleaf for a short visit. With his sights on Kanto's Gyms, she could give a whole new Contest Circuit a whirl! It's a whole new opportunity to show everyone the unique appeal of her Pokémon,
and she's not going to pass it up!
But, Coordinating isn't that easy. Dawn will have to find her way in carving out her own niche on stage. Where exactly can her team grow from here? How will her new Pokémon find their own place in the spotlight!? It's a lot to think about.And, that's not all. There's her ever-blooming relationship with Ash to think about. Feelings are confusing, but Dawn Tsumura is no quitter!Even after she and Ash settle their status as boyfriend and girlfriend, there are still more hurdles to clear; ones they'll clear together as a team!She's left to grapple with bringing out each of her Pokémon's unique charm, in battle and out.

LukasThadeauArt

Brock Harrison
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 21
Hometown: Pewter City
Profession: Pokémon Doctor in training

Jenny, oh Jenny! Joy, oh-No? None of that? Okay, okay.
Brock's actually shown a bit of growth, since his days on the road with Ash. After being tragically shot down by the Nurse Joy of Pewter, he says, he swallowed his grief and learned to temper his passions.
...At least, a little bit. One hardly has time for women, women, and more women when they're in medical school, after all. But, Brock can always make time for his friends.When Ash and Dawn passed through Pewter City, how could he do anything but spend some time with them? Especially when Ash was just starting his special challenge to the region's Gym Circuit. It seemed like a job for his brother, Forrest, but Ash wanted a proper rematch with his old traveling companion. He never did properly earn that badge, after all!Their battle was illuminating, and Brock had some sound advice for Ash, and little Rosemary, too. He'll be keeping an eye on that pup and her budding sailor mouth... Careful, Ash!Brock returns to the scene after Ash and Dawn's recent romps with villainy, staying by their side out of concern for his dear friends.

LukasThadeauArt

Misty Waterflower
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 16
Hometown: Cerulean City
Profession: Cerulean City Gym Leader

Now, you couldn't think that we'd go the whole story without seeing the Tomboyish Mermaid, did you!?Of course not.Misty's still taking care of the Cerulean Gym, while her sisters are away. Not that it'd be half the Gym it is without her, anyway. Her home turf's actually gained quite a reputation, since she left traveling behind! She's known as one of the stronger Gym Leaders in Kanto, and for good reason. Even Ash finds himself struggling with her, a bit!Of course, there's more to life than brawn, and Ash's complicated relationship with Misty is a bit more than skin-deep. Luckily, as the most mature member of their little group, Misty sees right through it. Between Ash and Dawn... Well, they might be the same kind of moron. Luckily, if you've seen one Pokémaniac, you've seen them all. It's nothing that a future Water Master can't handle!Now, juggling these morons when they step a bit too far into peril? That's a tall order, but Misty's always willing to step in when her friends are in need. No one brings harm to her friends, or her city, without paying a hefty price!

Max Maple
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 10
Hometown: Petalburg City
Profession: Pokémon Trainer

Is it so much to ask to step out of the shadow of your sister? Or your dad?That's what's brought a fledgling trainer Max to the Kanto region. He loves his family, he really does, but as a stubborn, freshly-ten-year-old boy, he has his pride, and is in the process of establishing his identity. Just that sort of difficult thing.Plus, he had the chance to witness the region on his sister's and Ash's adventure through the region! Faraway Pokémon are so cool!
First and foremost, though, he did leave home with his old friend Ralts. Together, they'll discover what it means to establish themselves.
Of course, he won't be forgetting that fated battle with Ash! ...No, that first battle doesn't count.

LukasThadeauArt

Bertha
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 62
Hometown: M/A
Profession: Elite Fou— [REDACTED]

Ever-wise, ever-strong, and ever-level-headed. All defining qualities of a veteran trainer, and Ground-type specialist. Bertha prides herself on the virtue of observation. In battle, in depeption, and in life as a whole.After initially battling Ash after his seventh Sinnoh badge, she saw potential in him, but little more. That started to change months later, when they happened upon each other in Veilstone City, where she watched Ash battle Paul, yet again.Ash's quick growth was impressive in Bertha's eyes, and she insisted on keeping in touch with his career!Finding they have a similar penchant for justice, as well as battles, she found herself endeared to him, and continues to nurture his skills in battle, and in observation. To Ash, quietly, she's like the outspoken, off-the-rails grandmother he never had. Bertha just as quietly shares the sentiment in reverse....Or, perhaps, not so quietly, when they meet again in Nimbasa. Bertha feels personally responsible for encouraging Ash's penchant for heroism, and the turmoil that followed. She continues to nurture him and nudge him in the right direction whenever possible. She's earned the title of Meemaw.

hollylu-ships-it

Paul
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 16
Hometown: Veilstone City
Profession: Pokémon Trainer

Pathetic.After the events of Lily of the Valley, Paul returned to challenge Brandon. He wasn't quite at peace with himself enough to triumph over the Pyramid King, despite showing significant improvements from their last battle. Brandon encouraged him to bond with his Pokémon more, to battle in a way that only he can.During his training break, he received a visit from Ash, and the two battled. This match ended in a tie, showing great strides of improvement from both trainers. Paul was relieved to see that Ash hadn't lost his edge.

drawnbynic

Deidra Agrona
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 21
Hometown: ???
Profession: Pokémon Trainer

Anyone who could stand to grow from this circuit could be no larger than a dust mite.A mysterious trainer with a rare Metagross showed her face on Cinnabar Island, and she seems to have a troubled history with the reigning KanJoh Champion, Lance.Her opinion of Ash wasn't much higher, after learning that he wished to challenge the Dragon Master. Although Ash defended himself and his principles, Deidra dismissed him as someone who lacked conviction; an aimless, proud child with a pipe dream, and little beyond that.Tragically, her bark was entirely backed up by her bite. Even Charizard struggled against her might, leaving he and Ash at a loss.Surely, they'll meet again at the Pokémon League. By the time they do, though, can Ash answer her challenge of what attaining Championhood means to him? What being a Pokémon Master means?

LukasThadeauArt

Glenda
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 46
Hometown: Lilycove City
Profession: Pokémon Coordinator

“ A bit of mystery is every woman and Coordinator's ace in the hole. ”Glenda is an elder competitor who Dawn's encountered a couple of times on the Kanto Contest Circuit. After a rather humiliating defeat at her hands, Dawn took her words to heart on her bid to help her Pokémon shine on stage. She knows little about the composed trainer, but she seems to dislike having the spotlight.

drawnbynic

Quijote Mancha
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 17
Hometown: Vermilion City
Profession: Pokémon Coordinator

“ Show them your splendor! ”Full of himself, and chivalrous perhaps to the point of being a chauvinist, Quijote is a bit lost in his own little world of prose and boasts.With these, he's managed to get on Dawn's bad side very quickly, and surely it isn't just her. What a jerk!As rude as he can be, though, Quijote is quite talented at putting the might and grace of his Pokémon on full display, in the contest circuit!His companions are brutishly powerful, and show little mercy. Of course, he doesn't take it well when those traits are turned against him.He seems to have a bit of a flame going on with Ember, though he also tends to sabotage it by putting his foot in his mouth. And she's not too forgiving of mishaps to begin with!

LukasThadeauArt

Ember
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 16
Hometown: Tangelo Island
Profession: Pokémon Coordinator

Known to the crowds as the Pinkan Princess, Ember comes from a legacy family in the Orange Islands, known for their philanthropy to Pinkan Island's nature preserve.Unfortunately, while she shares its affinity for all things pink and adorable, Ember doesn't quite share her family's grace. Spoiled, hot-headed, and quick to jump to conclusions, Ember quickly deemed Ash and Dawn her enemies, after the latter's Pachirisu almost mistakenly fed her Cherrim to the former's Garchomp. What creeps!To the misfortune of everyone involved, Dawn and Ember were ultimately rivals on stage in their bid to collect ribbons across Kanto!She's fairly talented, but Dawn always seems to come up with a way to one-up her. She's such a brute!

LukasThadeauArt

Ciara
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 13
Hometown: Scissor Street
Profession: Pokémon Coordinator
Timid and demure, everything about Ciara's demeanor betrays her being a flashy Fire-type specialist. Who would have guessed!?Dawn took to Ciara during a less-than-graceful meeting in Vermilion, after Ash's Gengar had left her scorched. Hearing that the girl had some helpful haircare resources, Dawn decided they were besties.Ciara wasn't quite feeling so enthusiastic, but in comparison to hers, Dawn's personality is more-or-less equivalent to a steamroller.Dawn learned that, though she'd been a trainer for over two years, she'd never taken her prized Vulpix on stage once. She professed that it was a case of stagefright, but there's more to her hesitation than meets the eye. Be that as it may, Dawn finally got her contest career rolling!Her cold feet cost her her first battle with Dawn, leaving her new rival unsatisfied. But, she's promised to meet the peppy Sinnohan on stage at a later date, for a proper rematch!Her appearance at the Wallace Cup sheds some light on her reluctance to put herself or her Vulpix in the spotlight. A shameful family history in Pokémon treatment makes her doubt her own capabilities, and her love for her Pokémon.Perhaps the key to finding herself lies in her relationship with Dawn and Kenny; two seasoned Coordinators to give her the push she needs.

LukasThadeauArt

Maddox
Species: Human
Gender: Trans Male
Age: 16
Hometown: Vermilion City
Profession: Pokémon Coordinator

“ Not having a care in the world is fighting The Man. The rest of the world doesn’t matter to Slowbro. He just rolls with the punches and lives his way. That’s pretty punk. He’s just like me. ”A young punk as loud and rowdy as his Steelix, and as unshakable as his Slowbro. He's so quick to buck his surroundings that it actually gets on Dawn's nerves! She hasn't quite seen the irony of this yet, though...Whatever their deal is, Maddox loves putting his Pokémon's appeal on full display in a way no one can ignore.

drawnbynic

Kenny
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 14
Hometown: Twinleaf Town
Profession: Pokémon Coordinator

“ I really shouldn't be calling her Dee-Dee anymore... You don't need to hear that story. ”At the next annual Wallace Cup, who else would appear, but Dawn's childhood friend and rival, Kenny!It was almost a touching reunion, until Dawn went and opened her big mouth about her and Ash. As much progress as he'd made with Jasmine, Kenny didn't take the news gracefully. Since then, he continued his bad habit of not being honest with Dawn. But, how could he, now?Dawn was frustrated with his odd behavior that she couldn't explain, and Kenny found himself with the giant obstacle of sharing his feelings. Not to mention, his budding relationship with Ciara...This Wallace Cup will test not only their skills as Coordinators, but Dawn and Kenny's friendship as a whole. Hopefully, they can brave that storm and make it to calmer waters.

drawnbynic

Brendan Yuki
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 16
Hometown: Goldenrod City
Profession: Pokémon Trainer, Pokémon Coordinator, Mentee to Wallace

“ You really got that idol thing wedged pretty deep in your cranium, huh? ”Among Dawn's many rivals in the Wallace Cup is a cool and collected trainer, who loves both the heat of battle, and the flare of showmanship.Having conquered Hoenn's Elite Four, Brendan came short of defeating Wallace, himself, who took the teen under his wing. So, how could he not compete in his mentor's signature namesake event?In actuality, it was a favor to Wallace, but nobody else has to know that.Dawn first scraps with Brendan outside the Cup, where she's soundly defeated by him and his Swampert. But, their collision pushed her and Prinplup to improve, in order to match Brendan in the ring!

drawnbynic

Koda
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 10
Hometown: Pastoria City
Profession: Pokémon Trainer

“ You were the kind of kid who said you were invincible during tag, weren't you…? ”Soft-spoken, but blunt. Koda might be just the kind of friend Max needs on his maiden voyage, even if they often butt heads. His straightforward inclinations don't always mix with Max's know-it-all analytics.Ash and Dawn happened upon them challenging the Dark City Gym, and gave them a lesson in teamwork!Hopefully, next time they all meet, the two will have better synergy.Koda's also a major fan of Crasher Wake, being big in the hometown pride department, like Dawn. Koda couldn't believe his ears when he heard that Ash beat him 3-0!

Jessie
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Female
Age: 28-29
Hometown: Unknown
Profession: Team Rocket Admin
James
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 28-29
Hometown: Unknown
Profession: Team Rocket Admin
Meowth
Species: Meowth
Gender: Trans Male
Age: 10-11
Hometown: Camp Pokéhearst
Profession: Team Rocket Admin

“ The last thing you want to get tangled into is copyright law. That's an even greater evil than Team Rocket, itself! ”James once said that he and his two partners in crime have a proud tradition of failure to uphold. These days, that might not be so true.After their ventures in Sinnoh, Giovanni took their boasts of toppling Team Galactic at face value, and even took notice of Pikachu's growing list of exploits. These three losers might have been on to something, after all! Imagine that.Given the chance to prove themselves, these three thieves underwent strenuous training, and applied themselves as thieves and threats harder than ever before!In gathering a rag-tag gang of displaced and mistreated Pokémon, they've cemented themselves as a formidable force, and even managed to earn a few promotions!Their focus lies on whatever task Giovanni has for them at the moment, but they still haven't given up on swiping that prized Pikachu!While Jessie and James are mostly optimistic and upbeat, Meowth in particular has started to suffer a bit of crisis of character. What is he? A human? A Pokémon? A freak, somewhere in between, betraying his own kind? He don't like da thought of that. Not one darn bit.

rohanarts

Giovanni Sakaki
Species: Human
Gender: Cis Male
Age: 36-37
Hometown: Viridian City
Profession: Team Rocket Boss, Former Viridian Gym Leader

" I am a man of business and conquest. Not a mad dealer of wanton destruction. ”Callous, cruel, and calculating. Giovanni is everything one would expect from the mastermind behind the illustrious Team Rocket.Giovanni considers himself an opportunist, even in the worst of situations. Despite the Team Rocket Trio's endless list of costs and failures, he's willing to give them a chance to prove themselves and offer greater value to the organization. Moreover, he's sharp enough to look at a failed mission, and see further opportunities.One can only worry for the fates of Ash Ketchum, Pikachu, and their friends, now that they've entered the madman's sights, more and more.

THE CLIMB

LukasThadeauArt

CONTEMPLATION

LukasThadeauArt

CONCEPTION

LukasThadeauArt

COORDINATION

COMPANIONS

LukasThadeauArt

CONSEQUENCES

Poke_Crys
drawnbynic