Chapter 77: Lapras, Long Time No See!

A Reunion on the Waves Ash, Misty, and May had bid farewell to Spencer's Battle Palace and set sail from Metallica Island toward the Orange Islands. Their destination lay deep within the southern seas, where the warm breezes and shimmering waters hinted at the adventures yet to come. The blazing sun reached its zenith by noon, casting a golden glow over the trio as they prepared lunch on a small, secluded island nestled in the Orange Islands. Pikachu lounged nearby, its ears twitching as the salty breeze carried the sound of rustling waves. Ash, standing confidently among an array of ingredients, was focused on his task. "Are you sure about this, Ash?" May asked, eyeing him skeptically. "I've never seen you cook lunch before." Misty smirked, exchanging a knowing glance with May. The two were suddenly reminded of Brock, their former travel companion and unparalleled cook. Somewhere far away, at another battle facility, Brock sneezed, pausing mid-thought. "Now you realize my value? Too late!" he muttered to himself. Leaning closer to May, Misty whispered, "It'll be fine. Look at how confident he is. If the food turns out terrible, he'll definitely spit it out first." "Hey, I heard that!" Ash retorted, glaring at the conspiring duo. "Instead of doubting me, how about helping? These ingredients need to be rinsed twice." Cooking had once been an alien concept to Ash, but thanks to the knowledge and skills he'd acquired during his travels, he'd become an adept chef. In fact, his culinary skills now rivaled, if not surpassed, Brock's. Of course, Ash had an ulterior motive for taking charge—traveling with two companions meant there was an opportunity to teach them to cook, ensuring he could enjoy their meals in the future. Pikachu tilted its head questioningly, its expression a mix of doubt and curiosity. Picking up on its thoughts through his Aura, Ash chuckled. "Just wait, Pikachu. By the time I'm done, everyone will be amazed." Reluctantly, Misty and May began washing the vegetables, glancing occasionally at Ash. His movements were swift and precise, a whirlwind of chopping and slicing that left the girls speechless. "So fast!" Misty gasped, her eyes wide. "I can't even keep up with my eyes!" May exclaimed, holding her Squirtle tightly. Within twenty minutes, Ash had prepared an impressive spread: sandwiches bursting with fresh fillings, a nutrient-rich soup, perfectly shaped rice balls, a vibrant salad, and freshly squeezed juice. When the meal was served, the trio and their Pokémon ate with gusto. Misty and May sprawled out afterward, overwhelmed by the deliciousness of Ash's cooking. "This might actually be better than Brock's cooking," Misty admitted, her voice tinged with awe. Ash grinned. "Don't get too comfortable. If you want meals like this in the future, you'll need to learn to cook. Starting tomorrow, I'll teach you both." Though his tone was serious, it was clear Ash had ulterior motives. After the meal, they fed their Pokémon and spent time relaxing by the island's shoreline. The sun sparkled on the gentle waves, and the rhythmic sound of the sea created a peaceful atmosphere. Pikachu's ears suddenly twitched, breaking the calm. "Pika, Pikachu!" it cried, pointing toward the water. A group of Lapras was approaching the island, their elegant forms gliding effortlessly through the waves. One Lapras swam ahead of the others, its movements purposeful and filled with familiarity. Misty gasped. "Could it be?" Ash's heart raced. Cupping his hands around his mouth, he shouted, "Hey, Lapras! Is that you?" The lead Lapras froze mid-swim, then surged forward, its joyful cries echoing across the water. It swam faster, its voice filled with emotion as it approached the shore. "It's responding! It's really Lapras from our journey!" Misty cheered, her eyes sparkling with excitement. The Lapras dove beneath the surface and leaped into the air, creating a mighty splash before landing gracefully just offshore. Unable to contain his excitement, Ash waded into the water with Pikachu to greet his old friend. "Long time no see, Lapras!" Ash laughed, reaching out to pat its smooth, cool skin. Lapras' cry was filled with joy, its blue eyes glistening with tears. The other Lapras soon joined, surrounding Ash and his friends. The reunion was a heartwarming spectacle of loyalty and connection. "Let's join them, May!" Misty said, releasing her Water Pokémon: Azurill, Goldeen, Starmie, and Seel. "Squirtle, let's go!" May added, diving into the water with her Pokémon. The group played with the Lapras pod, their laughter blending with the gentle waves. Misty shared stories of her journey with Lapras, and Ash introduced May to his old companion. The Lapras pod, trusting and playful, splashed and swam with the trainers and their Pokémon, creating an unforgettable memory. As the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Ash, Misty, and May sat on the shore, watching the Lapras pod rest in the shallows. Misty's thoughts drifted to their past adventures in the Orange Islands. The trio and their Pokémon spent the evening enjoying the serene beauty of the island, their bond with Lapras and each other growing stronger under the starry sky. -------------- T/N: Access 30 Chapters in Advance on my P@treon: [email protected]/PokePals