During the pursuit of the three "chefs," Ash had actually sensed their identities long before they revealed themselves. Thanks to his Aura powers, he'd already known that the trio were none other than members of Team Rocket.
And yet, even with that knowledge, Ash had charged forward without hesitation, leading a group of students who had neither combat skills nor the ability to protect themselves.
When he heard the trio's dramatic self-introductions and their classic motto, Ash didn't feel the slightest fear. In fact, he found it amusing.
He still hadn't fully grasped the seriousness of what he was doing. These weren't just goofy thieves from a TV show—they were elite agents directly under Giovanni, the boss of the evil Team Rocket organization. They were dangerous, deadly, and ruthless.
If Nurse Joy hadn't acted when she did, it wouldn't have just been Ash in danger. The students he brought with him, including Serena, Gary… everyone he cared about might have lost their lives that day.
Team Rocket's trio flew in a slow-moving balloon, yes—but it wasn't the kind you could pop with a single Vine Whip or get stuck in a tree branch like in the original anime. That thing was definitely packed with high-tech enhancements far beyond what it appeared.
As Giovanni's elite squad, Jessie, James, and Meowth were no mere small fry. Take today's battle for example—Jessie didn't send out a low-level Ekans. No. She sent out an Arbok that was already Level 31.
This wasn't a comedic troupe. This was a terrorist unit that could fire off corrosive Acid strong enough to melt bone—without hesitation, even at six-year-old children.
And what bothered Ash the most was what they'd said before escaping:
"That little brat named Ash… we'll be seeing you again real soon."
That line stuck with him. It wasn't just idle talk.
Team Rocket had clearly set their sights on him. And if they were Giovanni's direct subordinates, that probably meant Giovanni himself had taken an interest in him.
That… was not good news.
Looks like it's not just about adjusting my mindset and taking Team Rocket seriously, Ash thought grimly. I have to push myself harder. I need to grow stronger.
It doesn't matter that I have the Ascension Trainer System. Or that I've awakened Aura powers and the Viridian blessing. Or even that the League is starting to take notice of me. None of that means anything if I don't become stronger. Potential, talent, recognition... all worthless if you can't protect yourself.
He clenched his fists under the covers.
And it's not just Team Rocket I need to see clearly… The League too. They're not as invincible as I imagined.
After all, Team Rocket had just successfully stolen Pokémon from a supposedly impenetrable summer camp protected by the Kanto League. Right under the nose of Professor Oak—a Trainer with Champion-level strength. And they'd gotten away clean.
This summer camp incident, especially with the Saffron TV broadcast, has exposed my talents to the world. Team Rocket has noticed me.
Until I turn ten and officially begin my journey—until I can defend myself—I need to lay low in Pallet Town, the so-called "Special Protection Zone of Professor Oak."
Ash turned to his Froakie nestled beside him on the pillow and gently patted its head.
"Froakie… starting tomorrow, we're going to train even harder, okay?"
"Froakie!" the little Water-type responded with a serious nod, its big eyes sparkling with resolve.
"Goodnight, Froakie."
"Froa... kie..."
The night mist drifted up from the quiet valley.
Darkness cloaked the land. The rows of wooden cabins at the camp faded into the surrounding forest, becoming one with the shadows. Not a sound could be heard.
The night passed silently.
—
The next morning, after breakfast, the students packed their belongings and gathered in the open field of the camp. Each of them carried a backpack and pulled along colorful rolling suitcases, decorated with cartoon characters and Pokémon designs.
Two large tour buses had already arrived, parked side by side at the edge of the field.
Professor Oak stood before the assembled students.
"Congratulations to everyone on completing the Pokémon Summer Camp," he said with a warm smile. "The camp officially ends tomorrow morning, and today you'll all be heading home."
"Although a lot happened during the past two weeks, I believe what you'll remember most are the joyful moments and meaningful experiences you shared here."
"Even though the camp ends today, I hope that when you go back, you'll continue to study Pokémon theory seriously."
"That way, four years from now, when you officially become Trainers, you'll know how to bond with your Pokémon, how to take care of them properly, and how to become truly outstanding Pokémon Trainers."
After a few more words of encouragement, Professor Oak gestured toward the buses.
"Now, please double-check your luggage. Make sure you haven't forgotten anything. Once you're ready, board your assigned bus."
"Students from cities in Kanto—other than Pallet Town—you'll be taking the first bus. It'll take you straight to Viridian City for your transfers."
"As for students from Kalos and those from Pallet Town, you'll take the second bus. Since the Kalos students were hosted by local families here in Pallet Town before the camp started, you'll have some time to say goodbye to them once we arrive."
"Alright then—everyone on board!"
"Yes, Professor!"
"Yes, sir!"
"Roger!"
With a chorus of eager voices, the students wheeled their luggage toward the buses.
Vrooooom…
The engines rumbled to life. The two white buses, each adorned with a dazzling rainbow decal along the sides, slowly pulled out of the campgrounds that had been their home for the past two weeks.
Despite the incident with Goh… and yesterday's terrifying encounter with Team Rocket… overall, the Pokémon Summer Camp had been an amazing, joyful experience.
Still, as the forest and cabins grew smaller in the distance through the bus windows, a sense of melancholy settled over the students. Even Ash felt a tinge of reluctance.
But life is made of moments like this—one chapter ends so another can begin.
This chapter, the summer camp, had come to a close. But the journey ahead held even more excitement and adventure.
As the buses exited the valley that had cradled their memories, they came to a fork in the mountain road. One turned toward Viridian Forest, heading to Viridian City.
The other—carrying Ash, Serena, and the students of Pallet Town and Kalos—made its way back toward Pallet Town.
It wasn't far. Despite the unpaved dirt roads that kept the speed low, the ride took just five minutes before the bus rolled into the entrance of the town.
Word had already spread that the summer camp was ending. At around 9 AM, the children—both locals and their Kalos guests—would be coming home.
Just like on the day the camp began, the residents of Pallet Town had come out in full force to greet them.
The quiet little town was once again filled with smiles, waving hands… and promises for the future.
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