Chapter 122: Rampurqi

The morning was filled with excitement as Ash observed the evolution of Charmander into Charmeleon.

"Charmeleon, does something feel different?" Ash asked the newly evolved Pokémon.

"Char!" Charmeleon responded with enthusiasm, leaning closer to Ash to show its affection. Unlike the stubbornness often depicted in stories, this Charmeleon seemed even more loyal after evolving.

After ensuring Charmeleon was in peak condition, Ash led it and Pikachu to the training grounds outside the Pokémon Center. Releasing his other Pokémon, Ash introduced them to Charmeleon's new form.

The team, consisting of Pidgeotto, Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Beedrill, was visibly surprised by Charmeleon's evolution. They admired its new strength, which had already reached the elite level.

Bulbasaur, always perceptive, sensed something unique in Charmeleon, similar to what it once felt from Pikachu. Squirtle looked at Charmeleon with admiration, muttering, "Squirtle squirt..." It dreamed of evolving someday, though it knew it was far from reaching that milestone.

Pidgeotto, on the other hand, felt a pang of competitiveness. As one of Ash's earliest captures, it was determined not to fall behind. Meanwhile, Beedrill remained stoic but quietly resolved to train harder.

Ash observed his Pokémon as they warmed up. Charmeleon's newfound strength was evident. Its moves had become more powerful, with a distinct golden glow accompanying its fire attacks. In addition to its enhanced techniques, Charmeleon had learned two new moves: Fire Fang and Dragon Breath, the latter likely influenced by its inheritance from the Sun God's Winged Dragon.

"Pikachu might have the potential to learn Dragon-type moves too," Ash mused, considering Pikachu's inheritance from Osiris' Sky Dragon.

Breakfast Discussions

After the morning training session, the group gathered for breakfast. Ash recounted Charmeleon's evolution, leaving Brock and Misty amazed.

"I told you! Coming to Rampurqi for a vacation must have inspired Charmander to evolve," Misty joked, claiming credit.

Ash nodded earnestly. "Maybe you're right. Luck must've played a role in drawing the Sun God's Winged Dragon inheritance last night."

Misty beamed at the compliment, while Brock rolled his eyes. "Are you two flirting, or is this just another weird conversation?"

As they ate, a sudden news broadcast caught their attention.

News of the Santo Anu

"The famous ship, Santo Anu, was attacked by Team Rocket during a voyage. However, thanks to advanced intelligence and intervention by the Pokémon League, all passengers were safely rescued," the anchor reported.

Misty gasped. "Team Rocket attacked the Santo Anu? That ship is legendary!"

Brock added, "It's shocking that they'd target something so prominent. The Santo Anu is practically a symbol in Kanto."

Ash listened intently. According to the report, Team Rocket had planned to capture Trainers and their Pokémon aboard the ship. However, Lance, one of the Elite Four, led a covert operation to thwart their plans. Though victorious, the battle caused the ship to sink.

"Real-world events are far more intense than the stories," Ash reflected, realizing the gravity of such incidents.

Arrival at Rampurqi

Rampurqi, a beautiful island in the southeast of the Kanto Region, was bustling with activity when Ash and his friends arrived. The island was renowned for its stunning beaches and served as a popular tourist destination.

Misty marveled, "Wow, there are so many people here! This place is as lively as Vermilion City."

Brock, true to form, was distracted by the sight of beautiful women walking along the beach.

Ash, however, had a different focus. "When is the beauty pageant being held?"

Misty shot him a suspicious glare. "Are you that interested in it?"

Ash shook his head quickly. "No way! I just wanted to plan our schedule around it. I'm here to focus on training my Pokémon."

Misty smirked. "The pageant is the day after tomorrow. So, we can relax and enjoy ourselves until then."

"Two days of training sounds perfect," Ash replied, his mind already formulating an intense regimen for his team.

The Training Begins

Ash led his Pokémon to a secluded area of the island. While Misty and Brock explored Rampurqi, Ash focused on pushing his Pokémon to their limits. Charmeleon's strength had grown exponentially, but Ash wanted to ensure that every member of his team improved.

During the training, Charmeleon's golden flame shone brighter, indicating that its inherited power was starting to awaken. Meanwhile, Pikachu worked on mastering new techniques, inspired by its own inheritance from Osiris' Sky Dragon.

Pidgeotto, Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Beedrill each trained rigorously, their determination evident. Pidgeotto especially pushed itself, vowing to prove its worth as one of Ash's earliest companions.

As the sun set over Rampurqi, Ash stood back and admired his team. "You're all amazing. Let's make the most of our time here and grow even stronger!"

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