Chapter 7: A Cheat Master Prepares to Set Out

"Alright, I'm about to set off on my journey soon, so don't worry about me, Elesa. But you, on the other hand—have you been skipping breakfast again because you're too busy?

 I just watched the latest Kamitsure performance show, and while you still looked stunning, your steps seemed a bit off."

With his handsome black hair, red eyes, and a black tank top that accentuated his well-defined muscles, the 15-year-old Ash changed into his red jacket while chatting with Elesa.

Kamitsure was the stage name Elesa used after her debut, though to Ash, it didn't make much difference.

Elesa, Cynthia, and Ash had always stayed in touch, often sharing updates about their lives.

However, living in different regions made it hard for them to meet up often.

Elesa lay on her bed, swinging her legs as she listened to Ash's nagging with a smile. "Alright, alright, I know I need to take care of myself.

It's just that my schedule's been packed lately, so it's been a bit hectic. But I've got the medicine you sent me, so don't worry."

"That's not the point. Relying on medicine isn't as good as taking care of yourself. Just make sure you don't overwork yourself, okay?"

"Got it, got it. You just focus on starting your journey. When you come to the Unova region, make sure to visit me, okay? I'll be waiting for you."

"Don't worry, I'll come. Just don't go easy on me during our Gym battle."

"Of course I won't go easy. If you lose, I'll let you cry in my arms, Ash."

"Understood. Well, it's about time for me to head out. See you later!"

"Bye!"

After ending the call with Elesa, Ash began his final checks. After all, he was about to embark on a journey, and he needed to make sure he had everything packed.

"Cash—check. Bank card—check. Premium black card—check. Clothes—check. Cooking tools and backup ingredients—check. And the candy I need to deliver—check. Perfect! This backpack is amazing!"

Patting the high-tech backpack, Ash nodded in satisfaction. Just then, there was a knock at the door, and a Chansey peeked in.

"Lucky!"

"Got it, I'm coming down. Did you pack everything you need?"

"Lucky!" Chansey nodded with a smile.

"Great, let's go."

When Ash went downstairs, Meowth, Pikachu, a Miltank, a Ralts, and a Growlithe were waiting for him.

That's right, Pichu had evolved into Pikachu, and Ash had long known that his Pikachu was the legendary "Pikachu God." But whatever—he had already forgotten most of the so-called "plot."

Maybe he'd remember something if he encountered it, but as far as Ash was concerned, he just needed to know which Pokémon existed.

After all, he wasn't some clueless kid.

Speaking of which, let's introduce Miltank, Growlithe, and Ralts. Miltank was purchased by Ash from a ranch so that his then-Happiny could drink fresh milk.

Now, even though Happiny had evolved into Chansey, the family still relied on Miltank for milk. Thanks to the nutritious feed Ash had prepared based on his knowledge of nutrition, Miltank was very satisfied.

Combined with a special massage technique he developed with a girl who aspired to be a Pokémon Breeder, Miltank's milk was incredibly delicious. Of course, Ash's Miltank wasn't for battling—her only job was to eat, move around a bit, rest, and provide fresh milk for everyone.

As for Ralts, her origin was quite interesting. She was the child of Cynthia's Gardevoir. The reason Cynthia gave her to Ash was because Ash had given Cynthia's family a discount when Nurse Joy sold them some medicine. Not just Cynthia—Elesa's family and Giovanni Oak's family also received discounts.

Even the aspiring Breeder girl mentioned earlier benefited from it. After all, Ash could help out with these small things, and for the Joy family, these discounts were just a drop in the bucket compared to their profits. By the way, Cynthia had recently become the Champion, which was pretty impressive.

As for the final Growlithe, it was gifted to Ash by the Officer Jenny family for a simple reason. Over the years, Ash had used the profits from his patents to help the Joy family and Giovanni Oak open restaurants in many regions.

These restaurants had a rule: police officers could come at any time to enjoy a free hot meal, and the chefs were required to be ready to serve them without any shortcuts or laziness!

On top of that, thanks to Meowth, Ash had good relationships with professors in various regions.

Starting his journey now was like having cheat codes—unlimited money and Meowth as a human translator.

And Ash had an even more powerful cheat: one he had created himself, a truly game-breaking one.

"Come on in, Growlithe, Miltank."

After returning Growlithe and Miltank to their Luxury Balls, Ash held Ralts' hand, with Meowth and Chansey by his side and Pikachu perched on his shoulder.

He said to his mom, "Alright, Mom, I'm off to get the Pokédex from Giovanni Oak."

"Okay, hurry back. Your friends are waiting for you."

As she spoke, Delia pointed to the Pokémon gathered outside their house.

Ash looked at them and smiled. "I'll be back soon. We'll say our goodbyes properly then."