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Under the surprised gaze of Professor Oak, the Primeape celebrated excitedly after the fist bump, then dashed outside. However, it avoided anything in its path, no longer behaving as it used to.
"Hiss! What a big change! This kid, Ash, is truly remarkable!"
Professor Oak had studied Pokémon for many years. While it was well known that Pokémon of the same species could have differing personalities, many displayed similar traits. For a Primeape, usually angry most of the time, this change was astonishing—especially after Oak had personally witnessed its fiery temper before. Yet, in just three days and after participating in the competition, it had transformed so dramatically.
Only an exceptional Trainer could bring about such a change. It seemed Professor Oak could rest a little easier about the future.
Meanwhile, the Primeape strutted into the backyard, standing with its hands on its hips and its head held high, looking very pleased. The sunlight glinted off its golden belt, dazzling the glasses of the nearby Pokémon.
"Ivy? (You're back?)"
"Ape! (Yes! How do you like this? It's something only champions get—isn't it beautiful?)"
"Ivysaur! (That's a competition only you could join. If it were us, we'd have won too.)"
Ivysaur appeared unconvinced, black lines forming on its head. It seemed to imply that only the Primeape could participate, and if others had entered, they would have surely won.
"Free? (It's so shiny. Can I touch it?)"
Butterfree fluttered over, its voice filled with admiration. Hearing this, the Primeape raised its head proudly and looked at Butterfree.
Its sharp gaze startled Butterfree, making her retreat slightly. Seeing this, Ivysaur extended its Vine Whip protectively, shielding Butterfree behind it. Meanwhile, a large figure emerged from the river nearby.
"Ivy? (What are you trying to do?)"
"Gyara! (If you're bullying anyone, I won't let it go!)"
Both Gyarados and Ivysaur seemed ready for the Primeape to lash out, recalling its past outbursts. However, the Primeape's eyes softened suddenly, and it wore a gentle expression.
"Ape! (No problem—you can touch it if you want!)"
Ivysaur and the others were stunned. They had known this Primeape for a long time and were well aware of its usual temper. It was never one to back down, even when outnumbered. Despite being beaten before, it would always stand firm the next time. Its behavior now was a stark contrast, leaving them astonished by how much it had changed.
"Free? (Really?)" Butterfree asked tentatively.
Butterfree asked uncertainly as she slowly flew out from behind Ivysaur, cautiously approaching.
"Primeape! (Of course!)"
The Primeape's relaxed tone and carefree demeanor encouraged Butterfree. She hesitated for a moment but eventually flew to his side. Gazing at the sparkling gold belt with a mix of admiration and envy, she reached out her short hand and gently touched it.
"Freeee~~~ (So awesome~~)"
Bulbasaur and Gyarados exchanged glances, both silently acknowledging how much the Primeape had changed.
"Ivy~~ (Let me touch it too!)"
"Gyara~~ (I want to as well!)"
"Prime?? (How can you touch it when you don't have hands?)"
"Gyara!! (I'll use my tail!)"
"Prime! (Hey, hey, don't splash water on me!!!!)"
The Pokémon bantered playfully, enjoying each other's company. Professor Oak, observing the scene from afar, couldn't help but smile happily at the sight of their camaraderie.
Ding ding ding!!!
The sound of the phone ringing pulled Professor Oak out of his thoughts. He turned toward the laboratory and walked inside to answer the call.
"Huh? Who's sending Pokémon here again?" he muttered before picking up the receiver.
"Good afternoon! Oh, it's Delia? What's the matter?" Professor Oak asked, slightly surprised. He had expected another Trainer calling about their Pokémon, not Ash's mother.
"It's like this," Delia began, her voice tinged with concern. "I just received a large sum of money, and it says it was transferred from Ash's account. But I can't seem to reach him right now, so I wanted to ask if you knew what's going on."
Delia explained further. She had been at home, tending to housework, when the unexpected transfer arrived. Though she trusted Ash, the sheer amount of money made her uneasy, and she couldn't help but worry about how he had acquired it.
Delia recalled that she used to send Ash a monthly allowance. However, ever since he reached Mt. Moon and apprehended two poachers, Ash had asked her to stop sending money altogether.
But now, not only had Ash stopped asking for money, he had sent such a large amount to her. This made Delia a little worried—a concern shared by every mother.
It wasn't about having money or not; the fear was that her child might make a mistake or stray onto the wrong path.
"Oh! That's it! Don't worry; the money should be from a legitimate source," Professor Oak assured her.
He continued, "Ash asked for permission to take the Primeape three days ago, saying he was going to participate in a fighting competition. Now the Primeape has returned, and it brought back the championship belt. I believe the money is likely the championship prize!"
"If you're still concerned, I can give you the contact information for the competition. You could reach out to him there."
Professor Oak, slightly surprised at first, quickly put the pieces together. He trusted Ash completely and was confident the money was earned fairly.
"It turns out this child has really grown up and knows how to share the family's burden," Delia said, exhaling a breath of relief.
"Yes! Ash is indeed very responsible! He's doing well on his journey, so there's no need to worry," Professor Oak replied with a nod.
"Well, then I won't disturb him. Thank you, Professor Oak!" Delia said gratefully, her fingers brushing the corners of her eyes, which had turned slightly red.
"Haha! You're welcome. Ash has helped me a lot as well!" Professor Oak replied warmly, waving his hand. He had noticed the tears forming in Delia's eyes and could see how deeply touched she was by Ash's thoughtfulness.
As a mother, Delia undoubtedly wanted to know more about Ash's situation. However, hearing that the source of the money was legitimate was enough to bring her peace and pride. She decided against contacting him, not wanting to disturb his journey.
Professor Oak understood her sentiments. This was the quiet strength of a loving mother. After hanging up, he suspected she would cry tears of joy and pride for a long time.
Having a child like Ash was truly something to celebrate. Professor Oak couldn't help but think, I hope my grandson Gary grows to be as thoughtful and responsible one day.