Pokemon : Rewind

The Pokémon here had a vitality unlike ordinary Pokémon. Brock was determined to understand the reasons behind it, as this knowledge would be invaluable for his growth as a breeder.

If he could uncover the principles, it would allow him to develop better plans for nurturing Pokémon. 

Not only could he provide more support for Ash in the future, but he could also significantly expand his own expertise. This was an opportunity too rare to pass up.

Professor Ivy was momentarily surprised but soon smiled and nodded in agreement. "Of course, that's no problem. Brock, your cooking skills alone are reason enough to let you stay here."

"You're not staying just because you think Professor Ivy is beautiful, are you?" Misty teased, clearly amused.

Though she understood Brock's reasoning, she couldn't resist poking fun at him. After all, Brock's reputation for swooning over older women was well-known.

"H-How could you say that?!" Brock stammered, his face turning red as he glanced nervously at Professor Ivy. 

When he noticed that she was also looking at him, his blush deepened, and he became visibly flustered.

Ash smiled and placed a hand on Brock's shoulder. "If this is your decision, Brock, then I support it. You should do what's best for you." 

Though it would be hard to part ways, Ash understood Brock's desire for self-improvement.

That evening, Brock prepared a grand farewell meal, ensuring everyone, including the Pokémon, had more than enough to eat. 

He also made extra Pokémon food for Ash, knowing they wouldn't be traveling together for some time.

Brock even wrote down the recipe so that Ash could recreate the food when needed. Though the flavor might not match Brock's, the nutrition would remain intact.

The next morning, after breakfast, Ash and Misty said their goodbyes to Professor Ivy, her assistants, and Brock. 

There was little sadness, as they had already agreed to return for Brock after Ash completed his Orange League challenges.

—----

Tangelo Island, located northwest of Valencia Island, was one of the signature islands of the Orange Archipelago. 

Renowned across the region, it was a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the Orange Islands.

The island was slightly smaller than Valencia Island but boasted a unique charm. It was home to a massive Pokémon-themed amusement park—the largest and most luxurious of its kind in the world.

Additionally, Tangelo Island featured bustling cities, harbors, and pristine beaches. With so many attractions, it was a hub for both Trainers and vacationers alike.

After a half-day boat ride from Valencia Island, Ash and Misty arrived at Tangelo Island. Their primary goal was to visit the famous Pokémon amusement park.

Although Ash's main purpose in the Orange Archipelago was to challenge the Orange League and deliver the GS Ball, he wasn't in a rush. 

There was still plenty of time before the Silver Conference, so he decided to explore the islands thoroughly and make the most of his journey.

"This place is amazing!" Misty exclaimed as they strolled along the harbor road. Togepi, nestled in her arms, chirped happily in agreement.

"It's really impressive," Ash said, looking around. "With how developed this place is, you'd never guess it's an island."

The town near the harbor was modern and vibrant, with sleek buildings and bustling streets filled with tourists. Nearby, the sandy beaches were alive with activity. People swam, sunbathed, and played alongside wild Water-type Pokémon.

The wild Pokémon were surprisingly friendly, happily interacting with humans without hesitation.

As Ash and Misty walked along the beach, they noticed a large crowd gathered in one area. Curious, they exchanged glances and made their way over to investigate.

From their vantage point on a small slope, they saw the commotion clearly. Three delinquents were bullying a Pokémon.

The Pokémon was quite large, with a light blue body, a short horn on its head, a cream-colored belly, and a gray, ridged shell on its back—it was a Lapras, a rare and gentle Pokémon.

The three thugs were merciless. One jabbed at Lapras with a wooden stick, targeting areas not protected by its shell. Another stomped on its back while laughing cruelly.

"Stop it! We've already called the police!" shouted a tourist from the crowd. Though the man's voice was firm, he didn't dare step forward to intervene.

The other spectators looked on with anger and frustration but hesitated to act. Most of them weren't Trainers and felt powerless to confront the delinquents.

"Huh?" One of the bullies sneered, taking off his sunglasses. He cupped a hand to his ear mockingly. "What did you just say?"

"I said, let it go!" the tourist repeated, his voice shaking slightly but still resolute.

The bully laughed, turning to his companions. "Did you hear that? He thinks he can tell us what to do!"

The trio laughed loudly, their arrogance on full display. "We're Trainers aiming for the Southern Cross badge. What's nobody like you gonna do about it?"

Ash clenched his fists as he observed the scene. His gaze shifted to Lapras, who was cowering in fear. 

Despite being a Pokémon, it seemed too timid and young to fight back. Ash could tell at a glance that this Lapras was a newborn, barely half a month old.

"Pikachu, use Quick Attack and knock them away!" Ash ordered, leaping down from the slope onto the beach.

"Pika!" Pikachu sprang into action, becoming a blur of golden lightning. The crowd gasped as Pikachu darted over their heads and landed in front of the delinquents.

Before the bullies could react, Pikachu struck with a series of precise Quick Attacks, sending them tumbling away from Lapras. Pikachu controlled its strength, ensuring the bullies weren't seriously hurt.

"Who… Who did that?!" one of the delinquents groaned, clutching his stomach as he struggled to stand. His face twisted in anger as he scanned the crowd.

"It was me." Ash stepped forward, his calm expression masking a simmering fury. Standing protectively beside Lapras, he exuded a quiet but unmistakable determination.

"You little brat…" one of the bullies growled as the trio regrouped. They each pulled out Poké Balls with malicious grins. "You'll regret messing with us!"

Three Poké Balls were thrown simultaneously, releasing a Spearow, a Hitmonchan, and a Beedrill onto the sand.

Ash narrowed his eyes. "Pikachu, get ready!"

The battle was about to begin.

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