Simple little question: Is Pikachu, the one Ash carries around which
other one would I be asking about, a male or a female?

Actually, with the exception of Nidorans, _none_ of the Pokemon, in the 
game or show, has a discernable (or mentioned) gender.  Pikschu can be 
male or female, depending on your choice.  Most fanfic assume Pikachu's 
male, but at least one, Pikachu Girl-Type, has Pikachu as a female.  

SAMAS

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