Pokemon : Rewind

"Yes..." Nurse Joy sighed softly before leading Ash, Misty, and Tracey to the courtyard behind the Pokémon Center. 

This courtyard served as a resting place for Pokémon undergoing treatment. Lapras was there, resting in a small pond under the shade of a tree.

"Las—!" Lapras's eyes lit up as it spotted Ash. Without hesitation, it rushed out of the pond, moving toward him with surprising energy for its fragile state. It rubbed its head affectionately against Ash's chest.

"Feeling better, Lapras?" Ash asked softly, holding Lapras's head and stroking it gently.

"Lapras!" Lapras nodded enthusiastically. It was clearly much better compared to earlier.

"How could such a young Pokémon be alone on this island? Where's its family?" Misty asked, her heart aching for the young Lapras. The thought of its parents allowing it to wander alone puzzled her deeply.

"This island has a theme park, and it's common for groups of Lapras to stop here and rest," Tracey explained before Nurse Joy could answer.

"My guess is it came here with its pod but missed the opportunity to leave, becoming separated from its group." Tracey's tone carried a hint of regret. 

"This happens sometimes. Not just with Lapras, but also with migrating Pokémon like Pidgey and Spearow. It's not unusual for companions to get left behind."

"I see..." Ash and Misty shared a somber glance. The situation wasn't entirely avoidable, but it was heartbreaking nonetheless.

"Why don't we take it with us?" Misty suggested after some thought. "It's too lonely for Lapras to stay here by itself. Besides, it clearly adores you, Ash. If you bring it along, I'm sure she'll be happy."

Though Misty loved the idea of keeping Lapras herself, she recognized that Lapras's bond with Ash was stronger.

"That's a great idea!" Nurse Joy chimed in, her eyes lighting up. "I checked your credentials earlier, Ash. As the Indigo Conference Champion, you're not only powerful but also responsible. Lapras will be in good hands with you."

"I agree!" Tracey nodded in approval.

Ash smiled, appreciative of their trust, but he looked toward Lapras. "I'd love to have Lapras join me, but it's ultimately up to it. Lapras should have the freedom to choose."

Ash knelt down and met Lapras's eyes. "So, Lapras," he began gently, "do you want to come with me? We'll explore the world together, face exciting challenges, and grow stronger as partners. What do you think?"

Lapras tilted its head in thought for a moment before nodding eagerly. It didn't want to part from Ash, the first human to show it such kindness and warmth.

"Then it's settled." Ash smiled warmly. "I look forward to having you on the team, Lapras!"

He took out a blank Poké Ball and gently pressed it against Lapras's head. The ball opened, emitting a red light that enveloped Lapras and pulled it inside. 

The Poké Ball didn't even shake before emitting a soft beep, followed by three energy stars, confirming a successful capture.

Without hesitation, Ash released Lapras back out. Lapras chirped happily, nuzzling against him again. After playing together for a short while, Lapras dozed off, still recovering its strength.

—---

Lapras

Type: Water/Ice

 Category: Transport Pokémon

 Abilities: Water Absorb or Shell Armor

 Hidden Ability: Hydration

 Water Absorb: Restores HP when hit by Water-type moves.

 Strength Level: Starter

—----

Ash had come to the Orange Islands with only four Pokémon: Pikachu, Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur. Capturing Lapras didn't require him to send any Pokémon back to Professor Oak.

Initially, he had planned to bring Beedrill and Haunter as well, but they opted to stay behind to focus on their training. 

The Indigo Plateau Conference had revealed their shortcomings, and like Tauros, they were determined to improve.

Meanwhile, Pidgeot stayed at Professor Oak's Lab, training the younger Pokémon in advanced moves like Aerial Ace and Tri-Attack. 

Even Aerodactyl, who had once underestimated Pidgeot, began seeking its guidance.

—----

The next morning, Ash woke up early for his usual training regimen. He decided to introduce Lapras to his other Pokémon and brought it to the beach. 

Pikachu and the others quickly started their routines, following Ash's plan. Lapras, being new, was given a much lighter training schedule.

Watching the other Pokémon train with such power and determination inspired Lapras. It resolved to grow stronger so it could contribute to Ash's journey.

After training, Ash returned to the Pokémon Center, where he found Misty and Tracey waiting for breakfast.

"Are you planning to challenge the Orange League next or return to Kanto?" Tracey asked nervously, as if working up to something.

"I'll be challenging the Orange League," Ash replied with a confident smile.

"Then..." Tracey hesitated before continuing. "Can I come with you?"

Ash blinked in surprise but quickly smiled. "I don't see why not. I'd be happy to have you along."

Misty glanced between the two, then nodded. "Tracey's knowledge could definitely help with training. I think it's a good idea."

"Thank you so much!" Tracey exclaimed, pumping his fist in excitement. The opportunity to observe Ash's Pokémon up close was a dream come true.

With Tracey officially joining the group, the trio prepared to embark on their next adventure in the Orange Islands.

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