My Little Pumpkin

SUMMARY: Six-year-old Ash Ketchum loves Halloween for its candy, haunting ghosts, and scary monsters. But the only things haunting Delia were her family's troubles, and her greatest scare didn't come from ghouls but from the possibility of breaking her little boy's heart.

GENRE: Drama/Family
RATED: PG / K+
NOTABLE CONTENT: Brief Mild Language & Mild Mature Themes
STORY TAKES PLACE IN: Pre-anime. Characters are younger (Delia: 25, Ash: 6).

COPYRIGHT NOTE: I don't own Pokemon / Pocket Monsters, or Frankenstein, Casper the Friendly Ghost, The Wizard of Oz, Charlie's Angels, Three Musketeers, Milky Way, Wonder Woman, or York Peppermint Patties.

COMMENTS: Welcome to Aiselne's 3-part Pallet Town Halloween special, starring none other than the squeetastic duo little!Ash and Delia Ketchum. This is actually my first time writing a pre-series Pokemon story, and may I say it's a blast to write Ash at such a young age. But of course, this fanfic is another one of my Ketchum family dramas. Will everyone have a "happy" Halloween in this story? Read, enjoy, and you'll find out! ;)

My Little Pumpkin
Aiselne Phoenix

~ Chapter One ~

Friday, October 31st | Pallet Town, Kanto

"But Moooomm! It's almost time!"

A tired sigh escaped her curled lips. Delia estimated she had heard that same nagging whine at least twenty times within the last ten minutes. Based on her six-year-old son's raging sugar high, Ash did not seem in any hurry to quit pestering his poor mother, either.

Thank heavens Delia possessed nerves of steel. Yet, even she had her limits and could feel her steel melting in lieu of Ash's fiery energy. The auburn-haired woman was resilient, but after the twentieth "Mooooommm," Delia's patience was thinning. It did not help that she was desperately attempting to finish decorating the pumpkin pie she baked. The whipped-cream message "Happy Halloween" now sloppily resembled "Hoppy Holloweeen," thanks to an impatient little boy tugging the hem of his busy mother's apron.

"Moooooommmm!"

The only reason Delia never lashed out irrationally was because she knew she only had herself to blame for Ash's over-excited behavior. After all, tonight was Halloween, her son's favorite holiday. Why was Halloween Ash's favorite holiday? Why else? Candy! Lots and lots of sugar for a little boy who was arguably born with a sugar high! Ordinarily, Delia's rambunctious son bounced off the walls without candy in his system. Wherever Ash got the energy Delia would never know, though her default answer was: "He gets it from his father."

Even so, Delia still blamed herself for Ash's current sugar rush. What did Delia do? She foolishly opened Pandora's Box and allowed Ash "one piece of candy," which is identical to "giving a mouse a cookie." Delia should have known better. No ordinary child ever had just one piece of candy on Halloween night. Now, Ash was fortunate if he could stand still for a grand total of two seconds before fidgeting and whining all over again. Were holidays meant to be this exhausting for mothers?

Alas, it was Halloween, so Delia decided to loosen the maternal restraints for celebration's sake. Despite his current behavior Ash was indeed a good boy who deserved to enjoy himself on his favorite holiday. Nevertheless, if Delia heard one more "Moooommm," felt another tug at her skirt, or had to re-write her pie's "Happy Halloween" message again…

"Moooomm!"

Delia made a mental memo: Never give Ash candy again! It's akin to suicide!

"Moooooooooommmmm!"

"Ash, go sit down!" Delia finally ordered sharply, setting aside the whipped cream canister to spin around and lock narrowed brown eyes with wide innocent ones. Delia's voice was a far cry from yelling, but firm enough for her unruly, sugar-filled boy to get the message and shut his mouth.

Ash knew that "look" his mother gave him: the "look" all mothers wore whenever their children pushed too many buttons and tested their patience. The raven-haired child was smart enough not to irritate Delia too much this evening, lest Ash be exempt from his beloved trick-or-treating with Gary Oak. Thus, all Delia had to do was point a stern index finger at a vacant chair at the Ketchums' kitchen table and Ash marched.

Naturally, Delia's face softened. She did not enjoy being tough on her boy tonight, but Delia still had a list of things to do before their expected company arrived. The kitchen's wall clock read 6:30 P.M. Professor Oak and his grandson were due to arrive any minute so Ash and Gary could begin their infamous "Venture for Candy Across Pallet Town." Plus, there were bound to be early trick-or-treaters buzzing Delia's doorbell in the near future. The woman still had yet to finish filling the candy bowls for the costume-clad visitors.

That, and she still had to finish decorating her homemade pie; Delia's little present for Professor Oak in exchange for chaperoning Ash and Gary's trick-or-treating. Delia usually stayed home to hand out candy, in-between fixing together a few snacks and a spooky movie to surprise her son once he returned home. Professor Oak never allowed the six-year-olds to stay out too late (neither did Delia), so the compensation was they came home early to watch a Halloween movie at Ash's house. So many preparations were to be made and there was so very little time for Delia to finish them all. She certainly did not have time to heed every one of her anxious son's whiny whims.

Yet, with the kitchen now plunged into uneasy silence, Delia suddenly realized she almost missed Ash's boisterousness ("almost" being the key word). "Oh, I didn't mean to snap at you, sweetheart," the mother voiced sweetly, strolling over to Ash's seat to pat his ebony hair. Ash had yet to even dress into his costume; the little farmer ensemble Delia had tailored so diligently for the past few days. He looked so cute in it, if Delia did not say so herself. "Mommy's just reeeeally busy right now and can't have you underfoot. Why don't you go upstairs and change into your costume? Gary's bound to arrive any minute."

The mentioning of his best friend seemed to brighten Ash's spirits. "Okay!" chirped the boy before hopping off his seat and bounding for the kitchen threshold. Unable to prevent a grin curl her lips again, Delia shook her head as she silently marveled her boy's limitless energy. Fortunately, "what goes up must come down," and Delia could hardly wait for when her little bundle of energy crashed into his bed for the night. Sadly, bedtime was several hours away, and there was still plenty of trick-or-treating and candy-consuming beforehand. Halloween was always a long, tiring night for Delia Ketchum.

Of course, she loved every minute of it.

"Mommy?"

"What is it, Ash?" Delia answered, happy her son addressed her in a civilized, sans-whining manner this time. Seeing her boy reappear at the kitchen threshold, Delia smiled before cocking her head curiously. "Do you need help with your costume?"

Excitedly gripping the doorframe, Ash shook his head whilst a smile broadened across his lips. For a moment, Delia feared the boy's inevitable beg for more candy. Heavens knew Ash did not need any more sugar!

Instead, Delia's son surprised her and giggled ecstatically. "Hehe, I just can't wait to go trick-or-treating with Dad!"

It was a good thing Delia was not holding the whipped cream canister, or anything else for that matter. Else, she probably would have dropped them and made a gigantic mess across her clean kitchen floors. Ash had scampered off upstairs before she could even reply, leaving Delia alone in the silence of her kitchen. Not five minutes ago, silence was all she craved on this crazy night. But now…

Staring absentmindedly at her sloppily designed pumpkin pie, Delia felt another sigh slip between her frowning mouth. Ah yes, there was one other reason why Ash was over-excited this evening. Not only was today the boy's favorite holiday, and he would get his proverbial bag of candy, but this year's Halloween happened to be extra-special.

He promised, Delia reminded herself, taking deep relaxing breaths before deciding to tidy the mess she called her homemade pie. He promised he would come. True, these were not exactly the best of times in Mr. and Mrs. Ketchum's marriage. Even so, Delia's husband promised to come home and spend Halloween night with his son. Together he and Samuel planned to chaperone Ash and Gary's trek through town. That way, at least Professor Oak would not be alone in handling two rambunctious boys (who did have tendencies to bicker and compete). Sam was plenty spry for his age, but it never hurt to keep an extra set of eyes on kids, especially on such a mischievous night like Halloween.

Most importantly, tonight was a chance for Ash to spend some well-deserved time with his father, opportunities that had been in short supply during recent months.

Ding-dong!

Her pie was still not 100% presentable, but Delia nevertheless wiped her hands on her apron and headed for the front door. One of three possibilities lay behind that door: 1.) early trick-or-treaters, 2.) Professor Oak and Gary, or 3.)…

…Delia needed a moment to fix her appearance before grabbing the doorknob. If Possibility #3 happened to be standing behind the door, Delia wanted to look decent. There was no reason to give him the satisfaction in knowing these past few months were indeed taking their toll on the poor wife. Delia Ketchum was a strong woman, and she was also admittedly stubborn, too…stubborn enough to have suggested her and her spouse's separation in the first place. She fought tooth and nail to get what she wanted, and the last thing Delia wanted to do was give false impressions that she regretted her decision. Nevertheless, her and her husband's problems were not excuses to punish Ash. Regardless of who was waiting beyond her front door, Delia simply refused to ruin her baby's favorite holiday.

"Well, good evening Delia! Happy Halloween!"

Fortunately, Samuel and Gary greeted Delia from behind the door, much to the auburn-haired woman's unparalleled relief. She and her husband's reunion was inevitable tonight, but Delia was certainly not complaining about Sam and Gary arriving first. Smiling happily, the woman opened her screen door and welcomed the two Oaks into her Halloween-decorated, pumpkin spice-scented living room.

"Happy Halloween to you, too!" greeted Delia, closing the doors behind her to then join Professor Oak and his grandson. Sam dressed in his typical lab suit, with make-up scars and glue-on bolts along his neck, resembling a cross between Dr. Frankenstein and his monster. The youngest brunette was similarly, but not identically, dressed in a white-coated doctor's costume, looking striking similar to Samuel. "Hehe, and don't you look nice, Gary. You look just like your grandfather when he's in the lab."

Professor Oak chuckled lightly as Gary smiled delightfully. "Thanks, but I'm supposed to be a human doctor," the boy corrected matter-of-factly, fiddling with the toy stethoscope around his neck before placing his hands on his hips. "Grandpa's a Pokemon researcher," present Frankenstein costume excluded.

"Ah, you're right, Gary. Excuse me," Delia giggled, acknowledging and admiring the kid's keen attention to details. Stealing a quick glimpse, Delia noticed Professor Oak's face bore a small but proud smile. "Well, both of you are welcomed to have a seat," she offered, motioning towards her living room's sofa. Glancing at her staircase leading to the house's second floor, "Ash should be coming downstairs any minute and…" she trailed, noticing a pair of short legs descend the stairs and—"OH SWEETIE, YOU LOOK PRECIOUS!"

Ash nearly slipped down the staircase thanks to his mother's unexpected, high-pitched, eardrum-bursting squeal. How embarrassing! Must Delia gush so loudly? Any higher and all of Pallet Town would have heard Delia's octaves. Her son had grown accustomed to the woman's enthusiasm, and Ash certainly loved to bring Delia such joy, but…jeez! Poor Professor Oak did not want to purchase a hearing aid any sooner than necessary. And his white coat-costumed grandson was grinning like an evil, mad scientist who could hardly wait to torture Ash with teases. Gary was Ash's best friend, but their friendship never stopped the haughty boys from badgering one another when opportunity knocked

In an attempt to regain his dignity Ash ignored Gary, then gripped the stair rail with two hands and finished his journey into the living room. The child was indeed pleased with his costume and held his head high in front of his audience. Thank heavens everyone else seemed to agree with Ash's selection, too.

"Why Delia, that costume is perfect!" praised Professor Oak, offering ample applause to the costume wearer and costume designer. After getting a good look at Ash's outfit, Sam patted the child's mop of black hair. "You look just like your grandfather, Ash."

Ash's eyes glistened and his smile beamed at the wonderful compliment. "Thanks! Mom told me all about Grampa Ketchum, how he was an 'agri'-umm…" he paused, shyly turning to Delia who obliged to say the big word her son tried to remember: "Agriculturalist." "Yeah! Which is a farmer! He grew all sorts'a things to help Pallet Town, and he even worked with his Pokemon! Rapidash pulled big machines everywhere, and Venusaur used its Leech Seed-spitting to help plant crops. It must've been sooo cool to see!"

The boy's excitement was boundless, and Delia's heart swelled at her son's familial pride. Ketchums and Pokemon went hand-in-hand throughout generations, and her father-in-law was hailed as a Pokemon genius in the agricultural field. He even discovered a way for Venusaur to store its Solarbeam energy over extended periods of time, ideal for days when Mother Nature did not supply enough sunlight. Pallet Town had always been a rural community, and to this day retirees spoke of Grandpa Ketchum as though he were a Pagan harvest god.

Yet, Delia knew her father-in-law took the greatest pride in his family. He married a wonderful woman and they had a beautiful son, and in turn, the spouses lived to see their son marry his own wonderful woman and have their own beautiful baby boy. Of all the harrowing days, months he spent in the hospital, Grandpa Ketchum was happiest when he held his newborn grandson in his arms. Being so blessed throughout his life, how could a man not die happy? Those were words that Delia never forgot, and would never forget.

Based on Ash's animation, it was almost impossible to think the boy was never given the chance to personally know his grandfather. Of course, few things stopped Ash Ketchum's love of family, not to mention his curiosity. He devoured knowledge about his late relative, rarely letting the sadness of death shy him away from honoring his "Grampa." And with autumn upon them, Pallet harvesting was well underway and Grandpa Ketchum's memories were at their pinnacle. If imitation was the sincerest form of flattery, then Ash hoped his farmer's Halloween costume made his Grampa very flattered in Heaven.

"That's really cool, Ash," even Gary admitted, who did not offer compliments frivolously. Ordinarily, Gary was the one to brag about his famous grandfather, but…well, Grandpa Ketchum did sound like a pretty awesome guy.

Being praised by Gary of all people made Ash's smile broaden. "Thanks! Mom made it for me!" After all, Ash was merely wearing the outfit—it was Delia who worked hard in making it.

Pallet Town was a homey community, the type in which kids rarely wore store-bought Halloween costumes. Ash's farmer attire was no exception. His denim overalls were hand-me-downs, dug up from the attic of the previous Ketchum generation, and Delia sewed Halloween-esque orange and brown-colored patches over the worn holes at the knees and pockets. The auburn-plaid shirt was new, but Delia figured Ash could reuse it throughout the season. Her smallest, and oldest, pair of brown gardening gloves fit Ash almost perfectly; his small fingers did not quite fill the gloves, making the ends flop when moved, but Ash did not seem to mind. Last but not least, Delia recycled a pair of Ash's old rubber rain boots, which featured the scuffed, unrecognizable remains of Pokemon stickers. After a thorough cleaning, and a touch of black latex paint, the shoes were perfect apparel for a little famer to work the land—or in tonight's case, traverse the land for candy.

"Your costume's neat, too, Gary!" added Ash, particularly intrigued by the stethoscope, wondering if it worked like the one his pediatrician used. "Heh! Isn't it cool how we both look like our grandpas tonight?"

Sam and Delia giggled subtly as the brunette boy sweatdropped. No sense in reiterating the differences between human doctors and Pokemon researchers again. Ash meant no insult. It dawned on Gary that every house he and his pal knocked upon would probably make the same assumption, so he might as well get used to it.

"Would any of you gentlemen care for something before you leave?" Delia cheerfully offered, spying the grandfather clock read six-forty. It was not pitch-dark outside yet, but the sun set much sooner this time of year. Through the parlor window Delia noticed the streetlight at the end of her driveway was already lit. Upon the first shred of nightlight trick-or-treating hour officially began. Delia knew that as soon as Ash and Gary stopped ogling each other's costumes, their proverbial, "Let's go! Let's go!" cries would ensue. She had trouble handling one energized boy, never mind two. "Anyone care for some cider? I've got snacks, too." Not candy, of course. Ash already had plenty of that, and more was sure to come tonight.

"Thank you for offering, Delia, but we should probably wait until after we get back," Samuel replied, strolling beside both youngsters and patting their shoulders. "Gary and I already ate a light supper. There's plenty of time for eating after trick-or-treating, right boys?" much to Gary and Ash's pouting chagrin. The rule was no candy-eating until after returning home. Pallet Town was a safe place; the odds of somebody tampering with the candy were slim, but it never hurt to play it safe. Above all, Delia and Professor Oak did not think it wise for the kids to run around town on full stomachs. The same applied to the adults, too. "And you know how much I love your apple cider, Delia. I really don't think the neighbors will appreciate being visited by two cute trick-or-treaters with one old man who desperately needs to use their restroom."

Delia tried not to giggle, but she was not shy about rolling her eyes playfully. "You are not old, Sam." Ever since the professor turned fifty last year, old man jokes became commonplace, most made by none other than Samuel himself. He had a great sense of humor, one of the many things Delia admired about Professor Oak. "And one little cup of cider can't possibly cause that much trouble!"

"Best not to take chances," the professor spoke wisely, rubbing Ash and Gary's bouncy shoulders. "Although frankly, I'm most worried about what might happen if we keep these fellows from trick-or-treating for much longer."

"Yeah!" piped Gary, looking up at Sam. "Can we go now?"

"But we can't!" Ash unexpectedly answered, the last words anyone expected the child to say. After being incessantly badgered about leaving, Delia could hardly believe her son was not rip-raring to go. Of course, there was good reason. "My dad's not here yet!"

Professor Oak exchanged a neutral glance with the boy's mother. Mr. and Mrs. Ketchum's marital issues were none of his business and he had no intention of prying. However, Samuel was a close friend and he did feel obligated to at least mouth a silent question to Delia: Is he coming?

Just when the living room's atmosphere had been bright and cheery, Delia felt her mood darken. The woman discreetly chewed her lower lip. Was her husband going to show up? He would come—if he valued his life. He would come—if he truly cared about keeping a promise to his son. Ketchums were virtuous people who kept promises whenever possible. Short of there being an emergency there was no reason for Mr. Ketchum not to go trick-or-treating with Ash this evening. He promised!

"Well, it's still a little early." Sam attempted to maintain everyone's spirits, looking on the bright side before melancholy spoiled their holiday. "We agreed to start trick-or-treating at seven, so why not wait a few more minutes?" Neither Ash nor Gary were patient, and both feared the obvious. "Gary and I didn't see too many trick-or-treaters out yet when we walked over here, anyway. I doubt the entire town will run out of candy within the next fifteen minutes." Not wanting to hear a complaint from the kids, Sam scooted the boys to the sofa, seized the coffee table's remote, and powered on the TV to the first available Halloween special or movie. "And what luck, boys! There's a marathon of Casper the Friendly Ghost! I grew up watching these cartoons!"

Amusing how the alleged old man appeared more exuberant over cartoons than the kids. The boys loved animated classics, naturally, but the call of candy from the outside world was far more enticing. Nevertheless, everyone followed Professor Oak's cue. It was only fifteen minutes, after all.

Delia smiled, indebted to Professor Oak's sense of timing. At least Gary and Ash (especially Ash) would be distracted for the next fifteen minutes.

Fifteen long, anxiety-riddled minutes.

Figuring it was as good a time as any, Delia disappeared into the kitchen, attempting to finally finish ornamenting her pumpkin pie. But as before, Delia felt distracted. No longer did she have Ash pestering her—it was her conscience doing so. Regardless of the Ketchum aesthetic of keeping promises, what if Ash did not get to trick-or-treat with his father? She had to prepare.

As she stared aimlessly at her pie, Delia kept reminding herself. Vic promised.

It was not that her husband was one of those good-for-nothing parents. In fact, Victor Ketchum was one of the hardest working people Delia ever met. He commuted to Indigo Plateau, just west of Viridian City, and managed the Pokemon League HQ's telecommunications office. Ash never quite understood his dad's work, but he automatically assumed that any job at the Pokemon League must involve Pokemon, and what was cooler than that?

The irony of it all was that Mr. Ketchum's Pokemon League career rarely involved actual Pokemon, and therein laid the problem. Ketchums loved Pokemon; Ash's dad was no exception. Victor began his trainer's journey at age ten; he did fairly well in League tournaments. But by Victor's late teens he realized Mastership was out of the question—and the surprise that he was going to become a father—so he decided to work his way up the Pokemon League's corporate ladder instead. One need not become a Pokemon Master to still qualify for a position in the League's business offices. There was always a need for people to answer phones, file paperwork, and manage computers. The paychecks were impressive and provided well for Delia and Ash, not to mention assisted Victor's retired mother and in-laws residing on Cinnibar Island. But eventually the hypocrisy of working for the Pokemon League, yet not working directly with Pokemon, became too oxymoronic for Delia's husband to bear.

As wife, Delia supported her spouse's decisions…to a point. She knew Victor was unhappy, borderline depressed with his unfulfilling job, but she never expected him to quit it—and choose to rediscover his ambitions as a Pokemon trainer, no less!

On one hand, Delia had not seen her husband so happy in a very long time. However, on the other hand…what in Ho-Oh's name was Victor thinking?! He was not ten years old anymore! He had a wife and child to support! Delia was no freeloader; she cooked at a local restaurant, but her wage and tips were pittance compared to Mr. Ketchum's salary. The money he earned and saved via the Pokemon League was substantial, but it could not possibly last forever without continual income. The Ketchums did not live extravagantly, but what if Ash wanted to go to college someday? What if Delia wanted to go to college? Her own ambitions went on hold the moment she found out she was going to be a mother, but there was no law stating Delia could never resume higher education in the future. At least her goals did not involve leaving home on some endless Pokemon journey into no-man's land!

To say Delia was outraged was a gross understatement.

"You don't understand, Deeli," Victor told her one night during yet another one of their marital spats. Thank heavens Ash slept over Gary's house for the evening. "You were never a Pokemon trainer. I can't expect you to comprehend what I'm going through."

"You're right," she admitted, albeit none too nicely. "I can't understand the life of a trainer who 'finds himself' while traveling around the world with his Pokemon. But I am a mother and you are Ash's father, Victor Ketchum! As far as I'm concerned when people become parents nothing else should matter more than their child and family! I know what you're going to say…your Pokemon are family, too, and I've never had a problem with that. But your Pokemon are evolved and matured—they are not six-year-old children who need a father figure! Ash needs you here, at home, not gallivanting off somewhere to ease some cockamamie mid-midlife crisis or something!"

Sometimes Delia wondered if the real reason for her husband's behavior was due to the simple fact that they became parents at such an early age. High school sweethearts, married shortly after graduation, baby soon to follow…too much responsibility in too short of time. The Ketchums managed and they regretted nothing, but it did not change the fact that both of them were now in their mid-twenties. It did not help that Pokemon journeys were most associated with children: if a boy began Pokemon training at age ten, by his twenties the trainer not only should have gotten his fill of traveling, but he was also expected to know exactly what he wanted to do with his life, not to mention already be doing it. Those were the social norms of the Pokemon world, which was all well and good as long as nothing major interrupted the aspiring Pokemon trainer's journey. A baby changes everything, and as young parents Victor and Delia left behind a fair share of unfinished business. Victor's greatest fear was if he did not resume his ambitions whilst he was still young, he might never resume them again.

Delia's greatest fear was what kind of impact her husband's absence had on Ash. At first, Mr. Ketchum trained locally, even taking Ash on day-trips to Viridian Forest, but he eventually craved seeing the big world. Victor never before traveled outside the Kanto Region and the urge to visit uncharted lands was undeniable—last Delia heard, Victor was somewhere in Johto. If the Kanto Region could not contain her husband, what hope did Delia have? She gave up arguing with him eventually, too tired and too worried that Ash overheard their bickering. Separation seemed the best solution, especially since Victor was rarely home to begin with. At least he had enough common sense to use a videophone and stay in touch, but Delia did not consider that enough for Ash.

She also hoped her husband had enough common sense to uphold his promise to take Ash trick-or-treating tonight. He promised! Delia kept telling herself, convincing herself, and ultimately praying to herself. You promised you'd come, Vic. You promised Ash!

Ding-dong!

Once again Delia found herself in the kitchen, fiddling with her star-crossed pumpkin pie, when the doorbell rang. The Oaks had already arrived, so that left two possible visitors: trick-or-treaters, or her husband. Although she still was not looking forward to seeing Victor's face, Delia prayed he was standing on the porch. For Ash's sake.

"I'll get it!"

Speaking of the little devil, Delia gasped when she heard Ash scamper towards the front door. Who would have thought that a small child with smaller legs could move so fast? Being in the living room gave him an added advantage of proximity to the door, too. Casper's ending theme played just as the living room clock heralded the evening's seventh hour. The porch's occupant(s) rang the doorbell once more before Ash grabbed and twisted the knob. He knew who awaited him on the other side of the door, and Ash's heart pounded happily, having waited far too long to see—

"Trick or treat!"

The jovial chorus of costume-wearers brought zero glee to Ash as reality dawned on him. A modest group of five kids crowded his doorstep. The troupe's leader was a brunette girl wearing a blue dress, glittery red shoes, and held a basket with candy and a stuffed Lilipup inside. Beside Dorothy was another girl in a 50's-themed poodle skirt (which had an actual poodle sewn near its hem), and next to her were two alien-looking creatures wearing masks that featured blinking antennas, and a cowboy who tied together his candy bag with his lasso. It was difficult for Ash to recognize the mask and makeup-covered children, especially when his attention was directed elsewhere. Standing at the porch's landing were two supervising adults. Neither one was his father, unless Mr. Ketchum chose to dress as either the Good Witch or Bad Witch from The Wizard of Oz.

Delia recognized the witchy sisters as two waitresses from her restaurant, both older than the Ketchum cook. "Hi, Carrie! Cheryl! Happy Halloween!" she greeted upon reaching the threshold, standing behind her son with a large, just-filled bowl of candy. She dared not look at Ash's face at the moment. Fortunately, the trick-or-treaters provided the ideal distraction. After squeezing by Ash, Delia opened the screen door and began dishing out a handful of candy per child. "And wow! Don't you kids look cool! I love your costumes!"

"Thanks!" squealed Dorothy (her real name was Wendy, if Delia remembered), who then bounded down the stairs to where her mother Cheryl the Bad Witch stood. "Look, Mom! I gotta' box of PokeGummies! My favorite! Can I have some, pleeeease?"

"Not until we get home, Wendy." Based on Cheryl's groan, she obviously reiterated this rule a dozen times to her daughter already. Such did not stop Wendy from pouting disappointedly. "May I remind that you already ate a whole box before we left, young lady? You're going to get a stomachache." Evidently, Mrs. Ketchum was not the only parent who foolishly gave her child candy prior to Halloween's trick-or-treating. It was nice to know Delia was not the only grownup to suffer tonight. Cheryl looked back up at her auburn-haired coworker and shook her head exasperatingly. "I tell ya, Del. I'll never know where these kids put it. I could eat half a box a gummies and my diet would immediately go off the Richter scale!"

"It's the miracle of being young," jabbed Carrie, none too subtly poking fun at her older sister. Both women were in their mid-thirties, but Cheryl crept closest to forty. For someone who dressed as the Good Witch Carrie was being awfully mean to her big sis. Not that her colleagues' sisterly catfights were anything new to Delia. Just because people were outside the workplace did not necessarily mean they behaved any differently.

Victor was proof of that.

"Your costume's nice, Ash," said one of the boys in the alien costumes, his voice the only recognizable part about himself. Lamar Kristopher lived at the end of Ash's street, and Ash guessed the other alien was Lamar's twin brother Remi—or Reggie was it? Ash could not recall; he infrequently associated with the Kristopher boys. Their father was principal of Pallet Elementary School, which evidently gave his sons the idea that they were special and exempt from rules. Ironically, Principal Kristopher was a pretty friendly guy, though Ash tried to avoid the principal's office whenever possible. Lamar and his what's-his-name brother needed to learn more manners from their dad. "Which store did you buy your farmer's outfit?"

Typical. Only the more pompous people in Pallet Town bought their attire, opposed to making it themselves. Ash imagined steep price tags on the twins' Halloween masks, their flashy LED lights akin to blinking neon signs that advertised: SPOILED.

"Mom made my costume," answered Ash, not feeling particularly jealous of the Kristophers' blatant display of money. The black-haired boy was proud of his outfit for many reasons, unafraid to speak his heart. "My Grampa was a farmer so I wanted to dress up like him."

"Oh my, what a thoughtful idea!" Cheryl's voice suddenly called from below, obviously overhearing Ash's declaration. Cheryl and Carrie had been waiting for the Kristopher boys, obviously part of their trick-or-treating group. Bellowing it for all of Pallet to hear, Cheryl cooed, "You've got such a sweetheart, Del!"

Lamar and his twin did not appear quite as impressed (although in their defense, it was nearly impossible to tell the boys' facial expressions behind those heavy masks). Whatever the case, Ash was happy to watch the kids to leave thereafter. Ms. Cheryl's compliment turned his face bright red, and the child bashfully edged closer to Delia's side to half-hide his face. It was one thing for Delia to shower him with feminine gushes; Ash was not used to receiving it from anyone else.

Giggling gently, Delia rubbed her son's shoulder before bidding farewell and a happy holiday to Cheryl and Carrie's troupe. Cheryl did not lie, nor did she say anything Delia did not already know. Ash was a sweetheart, and Delia thanked God everyday that he was her sweetheart, too.

So, if Ash was such a wonderful boy, why was his own father punishing him?!

Delia's eyes scanned her front yard, then beyond into the nighttime horizon of Pallet. More and more groups of trick-or-treaters marched along sidewalks, some destined to ring Delia's doorbell in the near future. A few cars and trucks slowly drove by, cautious of kids wandering the streets, but not one vehicle was Victor's gray truck. It was five minutes after seven o'clock. He should have arrived by now!

Ms. Cheryl and company provided a distraction, but Ash's mind eventually slingshot back to his number-one concern. He had been so certain that the doorbell-ringer had been his father, and the realization of otherwise sank the boy's heart. Yes, Ash was aware of his impatience; what child was not antsy on Halloween? The candies' sugar-charge was one thing, but Ash had an extra-special reason to be excited tonight. And he assumed his dad felt the same. It had been a while since the Ketchum men last saw each other, after all.

"Mommy, where's Daddy?"

Ash's innocent question pierced Delia like a knife. How many times had she heard that question ever since she and Victor began arguing? Yet, no matter how many times Ash asked her Delia never desensitized herself to the pain, both her own suffering and Ash's. Frankly, just acknowledging her son's pain amplified Delia's. But she knew lying would only make matters worse.

"I'm not sure, honey," answered Delia, forcing herself to remain calm as she casually closed the front door, opposed to slamming it shut in her frustration. Delia Ketchum was not a violent woman by any means, but she acknowledged that Ash's temper came from his mom. The only difference between the mother and son was that Delia knew how to compose herself: to wear the happy smile and act as though the world was wonderful. And yes, the world was wonderful—but some people in it seemed determined to prove otherwise.

In reality, Delia wanted to curse her husband, but she also wanted to believe. Believe everything would work out okay. Because no matter how dramatically her opinions of Victor changed recently, Delia wanted to believe in one shred of hope.

"But if I know your dad, Ash," she added, bending forward just enough to plant a comforting kiss on her boy's forehead. At least her affection elicited a small smile from Ash, for which Delia was thankful. "He keeps his promises. We just need to be a little patient, that's all. I'm sure he'll be here soon."

She spoke with desperate certainty. Perhaps if Delia believed hard enough in Victor then the fates would make him appear, and that was not how true belief worked. Delia felt the same disgust towards the people who only attended her church when bad things happened, hoping their sudden "devoutness" would make all their problems vanish. How shallow it was for people to only believe in something, or someone, when it suited their needs. Delia did not want to be such a person.

It dawned on her that Delia's faith in Victor had weakened, and it was not entirely her fault, either. However, it was wrong to pretend that everything would work out for the best. Yes, there was always a chance that (in time) the family's problems would iron out and return to normalcy, but if they did not? This Halloween was just one of many unfortunate episodes between the separating Ketchums. How long could Delia keep feeding false hopes to her son?

"But why don't you and Gary head out anyway?" Delia suggested, grabbing the attention of Sam and his grandson from the television-adjacent sofa. Casper was still on TV, though everyone's greatest interest laid elsewhere. Gary looked raring to leave, whilst Professor Oak stared wide-eyed at the auburn-haired woman. "It's after seven. Trick-or-treaters are already out and I'd hate for you two to miss out on the best candy." There was no point in Ash and Gary missing Halloween on account of Victor.

Ash was the most surprised by Delia's offer. Although eager to venture out, himself, the boy's excitement was simmered by the absence of his father. Because to Ash, trick-or-treating with his dad was the perfect Halloween treat. "But what about Dad?"

"He knows his way around town," Delia nodded, maintaining as positive a demeanor as possible. She did not lie, either. Victor grew up in Pallet just like his son, and Ketchums knew the town like the backs of their hands. "Once your father shows up, I'll tell him to catch up with you guys. And who knows? You might even bump into him on his drive into town." But in retrospect, Delia winked in Samuel's direction. "Just make sure you don't actually bump into his truck, okay? You'll stick to the sidewalks, won't you, Sam?"

"Of course," Professor Oak reassured wholeheartedly, patting his coat's side pocket. "And I've always got my cell phone if you need to reach me. I know Vic has my number, too."

"So does this mean we can finally go?" Gary piped up, albeit his whine was less obnoxious than before. The brown-haired boy was tired of watching cartoons, especially when there was candy to be collected. However, he was not blind to his friend's disappointment. And Gary Oak of all people knew it was a bummer not to be able to see one's parent—in his case, parents. Mr. and Mrs. Oak passed away in a car crash two winters ago, leaving Gary and his older sister May in their grandparents' custody.

May and two girlfriends went to a local Halloween party dressed as the original Charlie's Angels, bobbing for apples, dancing, and having a grand old time, while her little brother was doing absolutely nothing at Ash's house! Gary felt bad for Ash's situation, but…was it so wrong to want to make the most of things? The night was far from over, so why end it before it even started? Ash certainly was not the type of kid to give up.

Realizing so, Gary hopped off the sofa and joined Ash's side. "Come' on, Ash! Betcha' I'll get more candy than you!"

If anything stirred Ash Ketchum it was competition, especially competition with Gary Oak. The farmer-costumed boy could already feel his adrenaline return: the prospect of candy, the challenge by Gary…how could Ash possibly refuse? He certainly was not about to prove Gary correct!

But…Dad…

Perhaps everyone had a point. It was stupid to mope around the house and waste Halloween. Besides, nobody ever confirmed that Mr. Ketchum was not coming. Just because Victor ran late did not mean all was lost. Once he reached Pallet he would simply join up with Ash and the Oaks. There was still plenty of time for the Ketchum guys to enjoy trick-or-treating together. Ash was already looking forward to it.

After a reluctant moment, Ash regained his optimism. "Okay!" he nodded exuberantly, balling a gloved fist. "But there's no way you're gonna' beat me, Gary! We'll see who gets the most candy!"

Happy by the return of his pal's spunk, Gary grinned proudly whilst pointing at himself. "We sure will—it'll be me!"

"Wanna bet?" countered Ash, unperturbed by his rival's arrogance. "If I win, you gotta' give me all your Three Musketeers!"

"You're on, Ashy!" Gary sneered, knowing his friend hated that nickname. "And when I win, you're gonna' gimme all of your Milky Way bars!"

"Boys! Boys! No betting now," chided Professor Oak, intervening before Gary and Ash's wager evolved into something worse. Honestly, must those kids turn everything into a competition? Not that there was anything wrong with friendly competing, but the boys had tendencies of going too far. Sam did not want Ash's feelings hurt anymore than necessary tonight.

"Besides, the Milky Ways are not up for debate, young man," Sam added, playfully scolding his grandson, lightly reminding Gary not to rile up Ash too much this evening. "Those are my favorite, and the rules clearly state that all Milky Way bars go to your grandfather for being nice enough to take you boys trick-or-treating tonight, riiight, Gary?"

His grandson's flabbergasted face was priceless. "That's not a rule, Grandpa!"

"It will be if you kids don't behave yourselves," Sam warned, immediately quelling Ash and Gary's battle. Candy was serious business on Halloween, something no kid wished to lose on account of being naughty. He who possessed the candy possessed the power! Professor Oak wished it were always this easy to keep children in line. "Now hurry along before this grumpy old man changes his mind."

Gary and Ash did not need to be told twice. They scrambled to lace their sneakers, along with finalizing their costumes before departing. Ash perched an old straw hat on his head, the perfect last touch to his farmer's ensemble. The boy had an affinity for headwear and felt almost naked without something covering his head. For Delia, she appreciated the hat for covering Ash's endlessly messy black hair.

That, and Delia appreciated the change in atmosphere. For just a moment Halloween took center stage, the kids were behaving like kids, and Delia once again lost herself in the holiday's bliss. Samuel was wonderful, lightening the mood and simultaneously exerting his parental control. She doubted Professor Oak would have any difficulties handling the two boys, even without an extra adult chaperone's assistance.

Before her thoughts could return to Victor Delia realized it was time for the guys to leave. Sam and Gary were already at the front door, Ash following, when it occurred to Delia that her son's costume was missing one very important accessory.

"Oh, Ash! You don't want to forget this!"

The boy spun around to see his mom approach him with a round, orange object in her hands. It was a plastic, pumpkin-shaped pail to carry candy, the generic style found in almost every shop. Tonight was the pail's third Halloween adventure with Ash, its history full of miles, confections, and memories. But in previous years, Ash had mismatched the pumpkin pail with dissimilar costumes: a ghost looked a little strange carrying a pumpkin, though no stranger than the year Ash dressed as a clown. Nobody scoffed, of course, because pumpkin pails were a Halloween staple, regardless if they matched the kid's costume.

But this year, Ash's pumpkin pail was more than just a canister for candy—it was the ideal accessory for the child's costume.

She kneeled to Ash's level. "Grampa's specialty was pumpkins, after all," warmly recalled Delia, remembering how her father-in-law's giant pumpkins annually won harvest festivals. No other Pallet farmer had yet to beat his records, either. "Maybe this little pumpkin will be good luck and get you lots and lots of candy, sweetheart."

Clutching the pail to his small chest, Ash smiled as he leaned in to kiss his mom's cheek. He did not want to make too much of a scene, lest Gary tease him later. But even Ash acknowledged that Delia deserved at least a kiss for her hard work with the costume, not to mention everything else she did on a daily basis. Ash was also aware that his parents' issues were hurting Delia more than she let on, yet she never faltered. Delia did not need to dress-up for Halloween as someone like Wonder Woman; as far as her son was concerned, Delia Ketchum was amazing.

"'Kay, Mom!" Ash chirped, regaining that bounce in his step as he headed for the door. "I'll be sure to give ya my Peppermint Patties!" his mother's guilty favorite.

"Just be safe out there, guys," Delia insisted, though she was well aware that the children were in capable hands. There was no stopping a mother's inherent worries, though.

"Don't worry, Del, I'll have these two back by nine at the latest." Luckily for Ash and Gary, this year's Halloween fell on a Friday, a non-school night, but that did not mean the kids could stay out all night. Professor Oak promised and reassured Delia as he opened the door, peering outside to notice an oncoming group of seven kids in colorful costumes. "It looks like you've got more customers headed your way, so the three of us'll take off while we still can."

"Okay. Have fun!" she waved goodbye, admiring her little farmer and his best friend as they scampered off into the night. In a way Delia wished she went with the kids, but somebody had to stay home and give the other trick-or-treaters their candy. Nobody else in the Ketchum household was around to do it, after all.

The group that Sam mentioned stomped onto her doorstep soon after, kids of various ages clad in various outfits. Some were familiar to Delia, as were the adults accompanying them. After dishing out the treats and offering compliments to the cool costumes, Delia returned inside before the next wave of candy-seekers.

Now, her house felt rather lonely and quiet, despite the forgotten television still flickering across the room. Delia supposed she should return to her pumpkin pie to complete it once and for all, especially before Professor Oak came back. No better time than the present.

Her pie was the first thing Delia's eyes fell upon once she reentered the kitchen. Absentmindedly she stared at it as though the dish were a pool of wisdom. She told Ash that pumpkins were lucky tonight. What were the odds that her pumpkin pie might bring Ash an additional dosage of fortune this Halloween?

The phone was not ringing. There still were no sounds of a vehicle pulling into her driveway. No knock on the door. Nothing.

Where the hell are you, Vic?!

Delia knew Ash would trade every piece of candy he received for a chance to be with his father. Delia would trade so much more just to give Ash that chance. The question was whether or not Victor would do the same.

She was starting to wonder if Victor's tardiness was due to forces outside their power. What if there had been an accident? The entire Indigo and Viridian City area was a busy metropolis; car crashes were commonplace. Although, if there had been an accident, Delia figured a doctor or cop would have contacted her by now.

Her worrisome nature was getting Delia nowhere. She could riddle herself with "what ifs?" and worst-case scenarios all night long; it would accomplish nothing. What mattered most was Ash and making sure he enjoyed his favorite holiday at its utmost. Whatever else happened, Delia would deal with it when and if it came.

But now she found herself worried for both her son's sake and her husband's. Delia still loved her spouse, she just did not love what Victor had been doing with his life lately. She did not love how Victor's Pokemon journey tore a gap between him and Ash. She did not love how Victor was late to take their son trick-or-treating! But though there were many things Delia no longer loved about her husband, Victor was still the father of her child, and yes, Delia did care about him. The last thing she wanted was for Ash's favorite holiday to be turned into a tragedy.

One step at a time, Delia told herself whist carefully re-writing her "Happy Halloween" message in whipped cream. Let's not make a mountain out of a molehill until we know what's going on. Victor loves Ash. He would never let his son down…

Ding-dong!

"Aarrgh!" Delia groaned, the doorbell startling her from her deep thoughts and jarring the whipped cream canister. Well, "Happy Halloweeeee," was better than Delia's earlier attempt. Maybe instead of worrying so much about her husband Delia should worry about baking another pie.

After setting everything aside Delia hurried to the front door. She could not tell how many people were waiting outside: more trick-or-treaters, or was it…? Her heart rate accelerated with each passing second. The doorknob slipped against her sweaty palm. Unlike the previous times she answered the door, Delia prayed with every fiber that Mr. Ketchum was on the other side. Please! Third time had to be the charm, right?

Delia was about to find out.

~ To Be Continued in Chapter Two ~

FYI: In case readers didn't already notice, this story will feature OC residents of Pallet, many who appeared in past fanfics of mine (I've sorta' created my own Pallet Town over the years :P). But I don't lay claim to Gary's older sister, May (not Haruka from Advanced Generation), who appears in Toshihiro Ono's Pokemon manga adaptation, The Electric Tale of Pikachu (a manga that Viz should rerelease immediately. Uncut, too). Please read that hilarious manga, if you haven't already. ;)

Thank you for reading! Reviews are much appreciated, too. :3 Onto chapter 2!