The final echoes of the battle faded across the open grassy field of Kinnow Island.
Arctibax stood tall in the center of the scarred battlefield, its crystalline icy armor gleaming under the golden afternoon sunlight, a majestic aura of cold dragon power swirling gently around it.
Golem lay defeated, and Bruno recalled his Pokémon with a broad, genuine smile of respect.
Bruno walked forward and extended his large hand. "Congratulations, Ash Ketchum. You win 2-1. You've truly grown into a worthy challenger since our friendly spar. The Kanto Elite Four will be watching your progress closely."
Ash shook his hand firmly, a proud but humble smile on his face. "Thank you, Bruno. It was an honor battling you. Your Pokémon fought with incredible spirit."
The girls and Tracey erupted in cheers, rushing toward Ash. Misty tackled him in a tight hug, Sabrina placed a gentle hand on his shoulder with a soft smile, Daisy clapped with delight, and Giselle beamed with pride.
Tracey flipped through his sketchbook excitedly, capturing the victory moment.
As the celebration settled, a familiar chime rang in Ash's mind.
[Ding!]
Elite Four Chain Mission Update
Progress: Defeated Bruno (2/4 Elite Four members)
Additional Reward Unlocked:
Rusted Sword: This item is exclusive to Zacian. When held, it transforms Zacian into its Crowned Sword Form, changing its typing to Fairy/Steel and granting it the move Behemoth Blade.
Rusted Shield: This item is exclusive to Zamazenta. When held, it transforms Zamazenta into its Crowned Shield Form, changing its typing to Fighting/Steel and granting it the move Behemoth Bash.
Ash's eyes widened in surprise and joy.
Two legendary items from the Galar region! He mentally accepted the rewards, storing them safely in his System space.
A big grin spread across his face. "This is huge… I'll have to plan carefully when the time comes for those two."
With the rewards secured, Ash turned his attention to his newly evolved partner.
"Alright, let's see how strong you've become, Arctibax."
He mentally pulled up the stats.
[Pokémon: Shiny Arctibax ♂️]
Level: 38
Potential: Champion
Ability: Thermal Exchange
Hidden Ability: Ice Body (mutated – restores HP in hail and provides strong defense in snow)
Skills: Ice Shard, Dragon Rage, Bite, Dragon Rush, Icy Wind, Dragon Pulse, Frost Breath, Snowscape, Body Slam, Crunch, and more...
Intimacy: 255 (Max 255)
Item Carried: High Grade Never-Melt Ice
Ash's smile widened. "Level 38 already, and those moves… You've grown so much. I'm really proud of you, buddy."
Arctibax let out a happy roar and nuzzled against Ash's side, its icy crystals sparkling.
The group gathered around to admire the majestic new form, with Pikachu and Eevee jumping around excitedly.
To celebrate the victory, Ash decided to cook a special feast using fresh ingredients they had gathered and basic supplies.
He set up a makeshift outdoor kitchen near the shore, rolling up his sleeves and gathering firewood for a steady cooking fire.
The girls watched him with shiny, eager eyes, gathering in a small group nearby.
Misty rested her chin on her hands, smiling dreamily. "Ash cooking after a big win… this is the best part of any victory."
Sabrina leaned against Misty's shoulder, her usual calm expression softened. "He always puts so much care into it. It makes the food taste even better."
Daisy sighed happily. "Our hubby in the kitchen is such a sight. Look at how focused he is."
Giselle blushed but nodded. "Master Ash looks so capable… it makes my heart flutter."
The four girls sat together, chatting and admiring Ash as he worked.
He started by filleting fresh fish caught earlier, seasoning it with salt, herbs, and a light lemon zest.
He placed the fillets on a grill over the fire, the aroma of sizzling fish soon filling the air. Next, he chopped vegetables carrots, bell peppers, onions, and potatoes tossing them into a large pan with oil, garlic, and spices for a colorful stir-fry.
The vegetables crackled and softened, releasing a savory scent that made the girls' stomachs growl.
Ash moved with practiced ease, flipping the fish perfectly, stirring the vegetables, and preparing a simple berry sauce by mashing fresh berries with a bit of sugar and heating it gently.
For dessert, he prepared a quick fruit salad mixed with a light honey dressing and some toasted nuts for crunch.
Misty giggled. "The way he handles that knife… it's almost like he's battling in the kitchen too."
Sabrina smiled. "Every movement is efficient. He really enjoys taking care of us."
Daisy rested her head on Sabrina's shoulder. "It's the little things. The way he tastes the sauce and adjusts the seasoning… so thoughtful."
Giselle watched with sparkling eyes. "I feel spoiled every time."
While Ash cooked, Tracey sat nearby, sketching Arctibax from multiple angles a powerful roaring pose, a curious head-tilt, soaring over the field, and even a gentle nuzzling moment with Ash.
Pikachu and Eevee, full of energy, started their own little race around the clearing.
Pikachu dashed ahead with bursts of speed, but Eevee used clever dodges and quick turns to overtake, leading to playful tumbles in the grass.
Their squeaks and laughter filled the air, adding to the joyful atmosphere.
Ash chuckled as he plated the food.
"Looks like those two are having their own victory party over there."
The feast was finally ready.
Ash served generous portions to everyone.
The girls dug in with shining eyes, moaning in delight at the flavors.
Misty took a big bite of the grilled fish.
"Mmm! The seasoning is perfect! The outside is crispy, the inside so tender… Ash, you spoil us too much!"
Sabrina ate gracefully but with clear enjoyment. "The balance of herbs and lemon… it's masterful. Every bite feels comforting."
Daisy sighed happily between bites of stir-fry. "The vegetables are perfectly cooked still crisp but full of flavor. And that berry sauce on the fish? Genius!"
Giselle ate with a bright blush. "It's so good… the honey in the fruit salad makes it sweet but not overpowering. I feel like I could eat forever."
Tracey joined them after finishing a few sketches, praising the food while still doodling.
Pikachu and Eevee got their own special bowls and ate happily, occasionally stealing glances at each other as if planning their next race.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky in beautiful oranges and pinks, the group sat together enjoying the meal and the peaceful atmosphere.
Laughter filled the air as they recounted funny moments from the battle Snorlax's dramatic yawns, Frigibax's stubborn determination before evolving, and Arctibax's dramatic transformation.
Misty teased Ash. "You always make everything special. Even after a tough battle, you cook for us like it's nothing. How are you so perfect?"
Ash rubbed the back of his neck with a shy grin. "I just like seeing you all happy. It's worth the effort."
The wholesome evening continued with stories, laughter, and plenty of playful teasing.
Pikachu and Eevee's races turned into a mini tournament with Tracey as judge, leading to more funny tumbles and cheers from the girls.
Arctibax watched over the group protectively, occasionally letting out soft contented roars.
Ash felt a deep sense of warmth and gratitude.
Victories like this, shared with the people (and Pokémon) he cared about, made the entire journey worthwhile.
As night fell and stars twinkled overhead, the group settled down for a well-deserved rest, looking forward to the next challenges in the Orange Islands.
The journey continued, filled with friendship, love, and exciting new adventures.