Chapter 122: The Legend of Latios and Latias
Fishing is an art—one that tests not only skill but, more importantly, patience.
Without patience, frustration takes over, and fishing becomes a futile endeavor.
By the time Ash had reeled in his third Water-type Pokémon—still not a Feebas—he quietly set his rod aside and walked toward Mewtwo, leaving Misty, May, and Anabel to continue their attempts.
Diving into the ocean to search for Feebas directly?
That was unrealistic. The sea was vast, teeming with countless Pokémon and coral reefs that made spotting a small, unremarkable fish like Feebas nearly impossible. Besides, without diving equipment, humans couldn't stay underwater for long.
Charizard, Snorlax, Sceptile, and Pidgeot were lounging lazily on the sandy shore, while Water-types splashed and played in the waves.
Ash approached Mewtwo, who stood on a rocky outcrop gazing at the endless horizon.
"Mewtwo, how do you think this place compares to Pure Waters?"
Pure Waters was the secluded sanctuary where Mewtwo once lived with its cloned Pokémon—a place blessed with mystical springs that possessed extraordinary healing properties.
"There is no comparison."
Mewtwo's voice was calm, yet there was an underlying longing.
"I wonder how they are doing now," it mused, thinking about the cloned Pokémon it had once protected.
Back then, Team Rocket had tried to use those very Pokémon against Mewtwo, forcing it into submission. But after breaking free, Mewtwo had scattered them across Kanto and Johto, ensuring their safety.
Ash placed a hand on Mewtwo's shoulder.
"Don't worry. They may have been created differently, but they're real Pokémon now, just like you."
"Pika…" Pikachu added, nodding in agreement.
"I am not worried," Mewtwo replied, its gaze unwavering. "I simply… want to return to Pure Waters and see it again."
Ash understood.
"Once we're done here and have said our goodbyes to Misty and May, let's visit Pure Waters together."
One day, when he had truly reached the pinnacle of Pokémon mastery, he would make that place his second home—a sanctuary for himself and his Pokémon.
Mewtwo nodded but suddenly turned its attention toward the city.
It had sensed something.
Two powerful forces were awakening within the heart of Alto Mare.
Ash's eyes lit up.
"So, they're finally coming out?"
Would they still remember him?
Just as excitement surged in his chest, Misty let out a triumphant cry.
She had finally hooked a Feebas!
She wasted no time in catching it, overjoyed by her success.
Mewtwo, however, remained focused. "Those two beings… they are strong."
Ash grinned.
"It's fine. They're old friends of mine. We came here partly to see them."
"Pika!" Pikachu added enthusiastically.
Mewtwo nodded, trusting Ash's words.
—
The Secret of Alto Mare
Deep within Alto Mare lay a hidden sanctuary—an ancient, secluded garden untouched by time.
Legends spoke of a time when Alto Mare had been under siege by monstrous invaders. These creatures ravaged the city, leaving destruction in their wake.
It was then that two powerful Pokémon appeared.
Latios and Latias.
They were not just any Latios and Latias, but the ancestors of their entire species.
They led their kin into battle, fighting alongside humans to repel the monstrous threat.
But humanity did not stand idly by. Combining their wisdom and ingenuity, they crafted a powerful artifact—the very first Soul Dew.
This was no ordinary Soul Dew. It was the strongest one ever created, infused with mystical energy.
Alongside it, humans built a machine—an ancient mechanism that still lay hidden within the city's sacred temple and Sun Tower.
Only those with pure hearts could wield the Soul Dew's power.
Together, humans and Pokémon used this energy to drive back the invaders, securing peace for Alto Mare.
Fearing another attack, Latios and Latias vowed to remain, forever safeguarding the city.
Thus, they became the eternal guardians of Alto Mare.
Over the centuries, their legacy endured.
A single human bloodline had been entrusted with the city's protection, passing down their duty through generations.
That lineage had survived to the present day—embodied in Lorenzo, the elderly caretaker, and his granddaughter, Bianca.
When Ash had first visited Alto Mare, Latias had taken on Bianca's form to interact with him, playfully leading him through the city.
And just before he left, she had given him an unforgettable parting gift—a kiss.
—
In the Secret Garden, Latios and Latias stirred from their peaceful slumber.
They had sensed a familiar presence approaching.
It had been a long time since they had ventured into the city. Occasionally, they would emerge unseen, invisibly watching over the people of Alto Mare.
But today, something felt different.
Today, they would reveal themselves.
Mewtwo felt it.
Ash felt it.
"Pikachu," Ash said with a grin. "We're about to see Latios and Latias again."
"Pika pi!" Pikachu chirped, excitement sparking in its eyes.
Ash turned to Mewtwo.
"They're Psychic-types, just like you. Come on, let's go meet them. And while we're at it, let's check out that Secret Garden. Trust me, it's just as breathtaking as Pure Waters."
Mewtwo, intrigued, nodded.
"Hey!" Ash called out to the others. "Misty, May, Anabel—are you all ready? We're heading into the city to meet some friends!"
"Pika pika!" Pikachu added, hopping onto Ash's shoulder.
The timing couldn't have been better.
Misty had just successfully caught her Feebas and was now staring at its Poké Ball with excitement.
"Yes! I finally caught a Feebas! I wonder how long it'll take to evolve into a Milotic… I can't wait!"
She held the Poké Ball close, beaming.
Anabel smirked knowingly. "I bet Ash is taking us to see them."
Misty glanced at her before realization struck.
"'Them'?" May and Anabel exchanged curious glances.
Misty hadn't told them about the secrets of Alto Mare, but if Ash was bringing them along, it must mean he trusted them.
May and Anabel had no idea what to expect.
But one thing was certain.
The moment they laid eyes on Latios and Latias…
Their reactions would be priceless.
And Misty couldn't wait to see them.
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