In the subsequent matches, Ditto repeatedly deployed targeted Megahorn assaults against Tentacruel, steadily draining its stamina following Leaf’s commands.

Fortunately, Tentacruel activated Teleport just in time, warping between the two platforms to evade Ditto’s devastating strikes.

But this was the Water venue after all. Recognizing it couldn’t connect Megahorn against the teleporting opponent, Ditto immediately dove underwater at Leaf’s direction.

Under continuous attrition warfare, Ditto and Tentacruel ultimately lost their battle capabilities simultaneously.

Finally, the opponent deployed Golduck while Leaf sent out Clefable.

After a brief exchange, the match concluded with Clefable’s Metronome. Under Golduck’s bewildered gaze, Clefable’s random technique produced Thunderbolt, striking the Water-type directly with high-voltage electricity that left it completely charred.

“Golduck is unable to battle! Therefore, the winner of this match is Leaf from Pallet Town!”

The Next Day

After all four rookie trainers from Pallet Town successfully claimed their fourth-round victories, Professor Oak and Delia invited Red’s group to dine together.

Initially, Gary was reluctant to attend. Unlike Leaf’s slightly excited demeanor, Gary resisted walking alongside Ash, since the two were frequent bickering rivals with difficulty getting along.

But under Red’s meaningful gaze, Gary ultimately nodded helplessly and agreed to accompany Red’s group.

To reward the four for their spectacular fourth-round performances, Delia prepared to showcase her culinary skills with a luxurious feast.

Where would she prepare this feast? Under Red’s helpless gaze, Delia set her sights on a particular building, targeting the luxury restaurant there.

Moments later, Red’s group arrived at the establishment. Delia mysteriously had them quickly locate a large table before turning and walking toward the kitchen behind.

“Um, you can’t do this,” the head chef protested weakly.

After witnessing Delia’s sudden intrusion, the head chef initially assumed his dishes had disappointed her and prepared to bow in apology. He learned instead that Delia wanted to borrow the kitchen to prepare a luxurious feast for her children.

In the awkward atmosphere, the chefs could only stand helplessly watching Delia begin meal preparations.

“Don’t be nervous. Red, Ash, it’ll be ready soon,” Delia reassured them after soothing the head chef’s discomfort, turning to look at Red’s group standing at the doorway.

“So she’s borrowing the restaurant’s kitchen,” Misty said awkwardly.

The head chef glanced over and recognized Red’s group. He immediately transformed his attitude, enthusiastically cooperating with Delia in preparing the meal, making the process considerably easier.

The head chef’s sudden attitude change stemmed naturally from being a devoted member of Red’s fan club. After realizing Delia was cooking for Red, he immediately deduced their relationship.

“That attitude change was lightning-fast,” Gary muttered, secretly amazed at Red’s explosive popularity.

With the enthusiastic assistance of several chefs, Delia’s cooking speed improved noticeably. Within a short time, she’d placed delicious dishes on the table for Red’s group to enjoy.

“Truly worthy of being a mother,” Brock said with emotion, praising Delia’s excellent culinary abilities.

Due to family conflicts, Brock rarely tasted his parents food. He could only learn to care for his younger siblings independently.

“The taste is definitely different from restaurant food,” Misty agreed appreciatively.

“Restaurant meals are nice, but mom’s homemade cooking is still the best,” Ash declared while eating, nearly choking. Fortunately, Red promptly patted his back, allowing Ash to swallow successfully.

“Don’t talk so frantically while eating. You’re acting like a little kid,” Red complained.

“Ash, you’re as entertaining as ever,” Gary teased.

With Delia present, Gary didn’t dare mock Ash openly, only quietly teasing him slightly. Truly disappointing for Gary’s usual standards.

“Thank you for your hard work, Aunt Delia,” Leaf said graciously.

“You’re welcome. Just relax and eat,” Delia replied warmly.

“If you all win the fifth round, the sixth round will implement six-on-six full battles. Have you considered your arrangements?” Professor Oak inquired.

“Naturally. They’re quite eager for it,” Red stated confidently.

“Don’t worry, Grandpa. I’ve arranged everything properly,” Gary assured him.

“Everything’s prepared. I’m very much anticipating the upcoming matches,” Leaf added.

“Just win the match first,” Ash said casually, seeming to focus his attention entirely on the food in his hands, not thinking deeply about Professor Oak’s question.

“Typical thick-headed Ash, dropping the ball even at such a critical moment. Really don’t know who your next opponent will be,” Gary complained. He couldn’t fathom how Ash’s thoughtless nature always seemed to lead to success. Quite absurd.

“But we must wait for tomorrow’s drawing to compete, since we still don’t know our opponents,” Leaf observed.

“Maybe Ash’s fifth-round opponent will prove quite interesting,” Red remarked cryptically.

“That’s right. Well, I wish you all smooth sailing in future matches. If you need other Pokémon, just contact me and I’ll transfer them immediately,” Professor Oak said, blessing Red’s group for continued success.

After finishing Delia’s feast, Gary chose to bid farewell, planning to visit other training facilities to condition his Pokémon while anticipating future battles with Red.

Just as Red’s group approached the elevator, a boy about their age called out from behind, wanting to share the same lift.

After successfully entering the elevator, the boy immediately noticed Pikachu at Ash’s feet. With joyful eyes, he reached toward Pikachu’s cheeks but was stopped by Ash. Not because Ash was stingy, but because he didn’t want the boy accidentally shocked.

To Ash’s surprise, the boy seemed to understand Pikachu’s temperament instinctively and didn’t provoke it. Instead, he gently stroked Pikachu’s cheeks, making the Electric-type close its eyes comfortably and chirp contentedly.

“Really understands Pikachu’s nature,” Misty observed.

“Its coat color is excellent, showing it’s been well cared for,” the boy praised genuinely.

“Is that so? How embarrassing,” Ash said, scratching his head shyly at the compliment.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep