Morning, Pallet Town
Sunlight filtered softly through the curtains of the Ketchum household. The scent of fresh pancakes and Pecha berry syrup filled the kitchen as Delia quietly set the table. Today was special—not just because her son, Ash, would receive his Trainer License, but because it was finally time.
The truth could wait no longer.
Ash, still sleepy-eyed but full of excitement, burst into the room.
"Mom! Today's the day! I finally get my license!"
Delia smiled warmly, hiding the storm of emotions behind her eyes.
"Yes, sweetheart."
As they ate together, she watched him closely. Ash was no longer the small boy who clung to her apron. He was taller now, voice deeper, eyes still filled with the same fiery dream of becoming a Pokémon Master. He was becoming a man—and he deserved the truth
After Breakfast in The Living Room
Ash wiped his mouth and stood to get ready.
"I should meet Akg at the lab soon—"
"Wait," Delia said gently.
"Before you go… there's something important I need to tell you."
Ash paused, blinking in confusion. He sat back down slowly.
Delia took a breath, then began.
The Truth Unveiled
"Ash… for years, I told you your father was still out there. On some journey.
The truth is… he's not coming back.
Your father died during one of his expeditions when you were just a baby. I kept that from you because I didn't want you to grow up in pain."
Silence fell. The clock ticked softly.
Ash's eyes widened, his mouth opened slightly—but no words came. His hands clenched into fists.
"Why didn't you tell me before…?" he whispered.
Delia moved closer, placing her hand gently on his.
"Because I was afraid. Afraid you'd carry that grief instead of dreams. I only wanted you to grow up strong, full of hope. But now… you're old enough. Strong enough. You deserve to choose your path with the truth."
Ash stared at the floor for a long moment. Slowly, his body relaxed. He looked up, tears forming in his eyes—but his voice was steady.
"Thanks for telling me, Mom. I… I wish I knew him. But I'm glad I had you."
Delia hugged him tightly, whispering in his ear:
"He would've been proud of the man you're becoming."
Ash stood up, wiping his eyes with a determined smile.
"I'm still going to become the greatest Pokémon Master "
Delia smiled, finally feeling a burden lift from her chest.
After Ash left to join Akg at Professor Oak's lab, Delia stood alone in the quiet home.
She walked to the window, staring out into the golden morning light.
The truth had been spoken. The past laid to rest.
Now, she was free—not from love, but from guilt.
With her heart open and future untethered, she whispered to the breeze:
"Now I can give you my answer, Akg."