After the heartfelt victory celebration and the delicious feast on Kinnow Island, Ash and his group felt refreshed and energized. The sun had dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in deep purples and oranges as stars began to twinkle overhead.
Bruno had bid them farewell with a firm handshake and words of encouragement, wishing Ash luck in the upcoming Orange League Championship match against Drake.
The group packed up their belongings under the soft moonlight. Arctibax, still adjusting to its new evolved form, stood proudly beside Ash, its icy crystals reflecting the starlight like diamonds.
Pikachu perched on Ash's shoulder, Eevee trotted happily beside him, and the rest of the team rested comfortably in their Poké Balls, recovering from the intense Elite Four battle.
Misty stretched her arms with a satisfied sigh, her new Poliwag peeking out from her arms. "That was such a good victory. Bruno was really strong, but you and your Pokémon were even stronger, Ash."
Sabrina walked gracefully beside him, her hand lightly brushing against his. "The way Arctibax evolved in that critical moment… it felt destined. Your bond with your Pokémon continues to amaze me."
Daisy smiled warmly, linking her arm with Ash's other side. "And that feast afterward? You really know how to make every victory feel special. My heart is still full."
Giselle, walking close behind with a soft blush, nodded. "Master Ash, watching you battle and then take care of all of us… it makes me feel lucky every single day."
Tracey adjusted the strap of his sketchbook, grinning. "I got so many great sketches today. The evolution moment alone is going to be one of my favorites. This journey just keeps getting better!"
Ash chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Thanks, everyone. I couldn't do any of this without all of you. Now… it's time to head to Pummelo Island. Drake is waiting, and I'm ready for the Orange League Championship."
With everyone in agreement, they released Lapras and Shiny Gyarados near the shore. Lapras's majestic shell glowed softly under the moonlight, while Shiny Gyarados's powerful form cut through the water with graceful strength.
Ash and the girls climbed onto Lapras's broad, comfortable back, settling in close together. The sea breeze was cool and refreshing, carrying the salty scent of the ocean. Tracey rode atop Shiny Gyarados, sketchbook in hand, already capturing the beautiful night seascape.
Lapras glided smoothly across the calm waters, her gentle movements rocking the group like a cradle. Shiny Gyarados swam powerfully beside them, occasionally dipping underwater before surfacing with a playful splash.
Misty leaned against Ash's shoulder, her head resting comfortably. "The Orange Islands are so beautiful at night. Look at all the stars reflecting on the water…"
Sabrina sat close on Ash's other side, her hand resting on his. "The peace after a hard battle feels even sweeter when we're all together like this."
Daisy sighed contentedly, watching the stars. "It's like the whole ocean is celebrating your win against Bruno."
Giselle, sitting slightly behind Ash, wrapped her arms around his waist gently. "I still can't believe how strong Arctibax became. And how calm you stayed the whole time… you really are amazing."
Ash smiled, wrapping an arm around Misty and Sabrina while glancing back at Giselle. "We've all grown together. Snorlax tanked so much, Annileape turned the momentum, and Frigibax now Arctibax gave everything in the end. I'm grateful for every one of you."
As they sailed through the night, the group shared stories from the battle, laughed about funny moments (like Snorlax yawning mid-fight), and talked about their hopes for the upcoming championship against Drake.
Pikachu and Eevee curled up together on Lapras's shell, occasionally chasing each other playfully when they got too energetic.
The journey toward Pummelo Island felt both peaceful and full of anticipation. The Orange League Championship was close now one final badge challenge stood between Ash and the title match.
Lapras hummed a soft, melodic song as she swam, the sound blending beautifully with the gentle waves. Shiny Gyarados occasionally roared softly in response, creating a harmonious atmosphere on the open sea.
Ash looked up at the stars, feeling a deep sense of contentment. With his girls by his side, his Pokémon stronger than ever, and the System rewards safely stored, he felt truly ready for whatever awaited on Pummelo Island.
The night journey continued, carrying them closer to their next big goal.
The next morning arrived with a brilliant sunrise painting the Orange Archipelago in warm hues of gold, pink, and orange.
The sea sparkled like a vast field of diamonds as gentle waves lapped against Lapras's shell. Ash and his group had traveled through the night, taking turns resting while Lapras and Shiny Gyarados carried them steadily toward Pummelo Island.
Ash sat at the front of Lapras's broad back, the cool morning sea breeze ruffling his hair. Pikachu was curled up on his lap, still half-asleep, while Eevee rested comfortably against his side. The girls were slowly waking up around him, stretching and enjoying the peaceful morning atmosphere.
Misty yawned cutely, leaning against Ash's shoulder as she rubbed her eyes. "Mmm… the sea looks so pretty in the morning light. How much farther until Pummelo Island?"
Sabrina, ever graceful even after sleeping on Lapras's shell, sat up and brushed her long hair back. "We should be getting close. I can feel the energy of the island growing stronger."
Daisy smiled sleepily, adjusting her position so she could rest her head on Ash's other shoulder. "I slept so well last night. Being with all of you makes every journey feel like a dream."
Giselle, who had been keeping watch for part of the night, offered a soft smile as she moved closer. "Good morning, Master Ash. Did you rest well? You deserve it after that incredible battle yesterday."
Ash wrapped an arm around Misty and Daisy, pulling them closer with a warm chuckle. "I did. Having all of you here makes everything better. We're almost at Pummelo Island. Drake's waiting, and I'm ready for the championship match."
Tracey, riding on Shiny Gyarados beside them, was already wide awake and sketching the sunrise over the ocean. "This view is incredible! The way the light hits the waves… I could draw this forever."
The group continued chatting lightly, sharing small moments of affection and laughter.
Misty teasing Giselle about her growing comfort with the group, while Sabrina quietly pointed out interesting Water-type Pokémon swimming alongside them. Daisy hummed a soft tune, and Ash occasionally fed Pikachu and Eevee some berries from their supplies.
As they drew closer to Pummelo Island, the silhouette of the large island began to appear on the horizon rocky cliffs, lush greenery, and what looked like the grand structures of the Orange League stadium in the distance.
Suddenly, something caught Ash's eye.
A large shadow passed overhead, moving swiftly a few kilometers away. It was massive, powerful, and graceful, cutting through the air with strong wingbeats.
The figure disappeared behind a cluster of clouds for a moment before reappearing, soaring playfully above the waves.
Ash's eyes sharpened instantly. "That's…"
Misty sat up straight, her eyes widening with recognition. "A Dragonite! And it looks like a strong one too."
Sabrina nodded calmly, a small smile forming. "Its aura is quite powerful. It must be wild or perhaps belonging to someone important on the island."
Daisy tilted her head, watching the shadow with interest. "It's flying so freely… almost like it's enjoying the morning flight."
Giselle leaned forward, her gaze focused. "It's beautiful. The way it moves through the air is so majestic."
Tracey, however, looked completely clueless and while still sitting on the back of gyrados shouts at ash.
He squinted at the distant shadow, trying to make out details with his hand shielding his eyes from the sun. "Wait, what kind of Pokémon was that? It looked huge! I've never seen anything move like that before. Ash, do you know?"
Ash turned to Tracey with a mysterious smile, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "You'll soon find out, Tracey. Let's just say… we might get a closer look very soon."
The group watched as the Dragonite did another playful loop in the distance, its silhouette occasionally visible against the bright sky. The anticipation in the air grew thicker as they continued sailing toward Pummelo Island, the championship battle against Drake looming closer with every wave Lapras glided over.
Pikachu perked up on Ash's shoulder, ears twitching as it sensed the powerful Pokémon. Eevee tilted its head curiously, letting out a soft "Eevee?" as if asking the same question as Tracey.
Ash gently patted both of them. "Stay alert, you two. Things are about to get interesting."
The morning journey continued, filled with a new layer of excitement and mystery as the shadow of the Dragonite occasionally reappeared in the distance, almost as if it was leading them toward Pummelo Island.
The morning sun climbed higher as Lapras and Shiny Gyarados carried the group closer to their destination. Pummelo Island gradually rose on the horizon like a majestic crown atop the sea its rocky cliffs crowned with lush greenery, towering stadium structures visible even from afar, and an unmistakable aura of prestige and history hanging in the air.
The waves grew slightly more energetic as they approached the main harbor, as if the island itself was welcoming challengers.
Ash stood at the front of Lapras's shell, wind tousling his hair, his eyes filled with focused determination. "We're finally here. Pummelo Island… the last stop before the Orange League Championship."
Misty stood beside him, her hand resting lightly on his arm, Poliwag peeking curiously from her bag. "It feels so official now. After all those Gym battles, it's time for the real thing."
Sabrina's calm presence was reassuring as she stood on his other side. "You've earned this moment. Your growth since the start of the Orange Islands arc has been remarkable."
Daisy smiled warmly, linking her arm with his. "No matter what happens tomorrow, we're all so proud of you, Ash."
Giselle, walking just behind with graceful steps, nodded with quiet admiration. "Master Ash… watching you prepare for this final battle makes my heart race. You will win. I know it."
Tracey, still riding on Shiny Gyarados, called out excitedly. "The architecture here is incredible! I can already see so many things I want to sketch!"
They docked smoothly at the bustling harbor. The group disembarked, stretching their legs after the long sea journey. The air was filled with the scent of salt, tropical flowers, and the faint energy of excited trainers and spectators.
After a quick stop to freshen up, Ash led everyone straight to the official registration building near the heart of the island a grand structure adorned with Orange League banners and statues of legendary Pokémon.
Inside the registration hall, the atmosphere was professional yet charged with anticipation. A middle-aged official with a kind but serious expression greeted them behind a wide counter.
"Welcome, challenger. I assume you're here to register for the final match against Drake, the Orange Crew Leader?"
Ash nodded confidently and presented his badge case. "That's right. I've collected all four Orange Crew badges."
The official took the case and began scanning each badge one by one with a specialized device. A soft blue light passed over the Coral-Eye Badge, then the Sea Ruby Badge, the Spike Shell Badge, and finally the Jade Star Badge. Each scan produced a confirming chime.
"Coral-Eye Badge… authentic. Sea Ruby Badge… authentic. Spike Shell Badge… authentic. Jade Star Badge… authentic." The official smiled.
"All four badges verified. Ash Ketchum, you are officially registered for tomorrow's Orange League Championship match against Drake. The battle will be a full 6 vs 6. Good luck you'll need every ounce of strength you've built on your journey."
Ash's grin widened. "Thank you. I'm ready."
While the registration was happening, Tracey had wandered a few steps away, completely captivated by a large, beautifully carved Dragonite statue near the entrance of the registration office.
The statue depicted the majestic Pokémon in a powerful soaring pose, wings spread wide, with intricate details on its scales and an almost lifelike presence.
"Wow…" Tracey whispered in awe, his pencil already moving rapidly across his sketchbook. "The craftsmanship is unbelievable. The way the wings are carved… it feels like it could take off any second."
Ash noticed Tracey's distraction and smiled knowingly, but said nothing for now.
After registration was complete, the official who introduced himself as Mr. Harlan, one of the league coordinators offered to personally guide them. "Since you're a serious challenger, allow me to show you the venue for tomorrow's battle."
The group followed Mr. Harlan through beautifully maintained pathways lined with flowers and historical plaques. They arrived at the grand Pummelo Stadium, a massive structure that radiated prestige. Its towering arches and open-air design allowed the sea breeze to flow through, creating a perfect battlefield environment.
"Tomorrow, you will battle Drake here in the center arena," Mr. Harlan explained. "It's designed to handle the most powerful Pokémon battles."
They continued walking toward a connected majestic building the Palace of Victory, now officially known as the Orange League Hall of Fame. The entrance was grand, flanked by towering columns and more statues.
Tracey stopped dead in his tracks near the entrance, eyes wide as he stared at another Dragonite statue even larger and more detailed than the one at registration. "This one too… It's the same Pokémon I saw flying earlier!"
Mr. Harlan smiled warmly. "Ah, you noticed. This is Dragonite the legendary Pokémon that has guided Pummelo Island for generations. It's said to watch over the Orange League and appear to worthy challengers."
Tracey was in a complete trance, staring up at the statue with sparkling eyes, his sketchbook forgotten for a moment. "Dragonite… so that's what it was called. It's incredible…"
Ash and the girls exchanged knowing smiles, clearly amused by Tracey's awe.
Mr. Harlan continued the tour, explaining the Hall of Fame process with pride. "To have your name and team immortalized here, a trainer must defeat all four Orange Crew Gym Leaders and then defeat Drake in a full 6 vs 6 battle. Only then are they inducted into the Hall of Fame. Many great trainers have stood where you are now, Ash."
The group listened attentively as they were led to the comfortable challenger quarters spacious rooms with beautiful views of the sea, private training areas, and everything needed for rest and preparation before tomorrow's big battle.
As they settled in, the excitement and nerves for the championship match hung thick in the air, mixed with the unbreakable bond between Ash and his companions.