Professor Oak's Laboratory.
With Ash's cry of "I'm back!"
First came the enthusiastic herd of Tauros,
Then Bayleef tackled Ash to the ground,
Swellow circled overhead,
The Shiny Noctowl landed in a tree,
Then came Garchomp, like a supersonic fighter jet,
Infernape, Pignite, Scraggy...
The aloof Snivy, the dashing Sceptile...
The companions he had caught and left in the laboratory's care all gathered around him, expressing their longing and welcoming him back in their own ways.
"Everyone's as energetic as ever!"
Ash was completely surrounded by Pokémon.
Crystal proudly planted her hands on her hips. "Of course! We've been taking good care of them!"
"Pika!"
Pikachu excitedly bounded among old friends, greeting them with delight.
"Wow, are these all the companions Ash caught on his travels?" Watching the spectacular reunion, Lillie couldn't help covering her mouth in amazement.
"This really gets your blood pumping!"
Kiawe felt a surge of excitement.
"I'm burning up!"
"No, you're already on fire."
"They all look so healthy and happy." Mallow smiled as she watched Ash tumble around with his Pokémon.
Lana, meanwhile, noticed several Water-type Pokémon poking their heads out of the river, including Corphish and Buizel...
Watching the scene, Sophocles murmured,
"Looking at them, it's almost like seeing Ash traveling with them."
A warm smile spread across Brock's face as he watched. "No matter how far he travels, this will always be his home, and the place where these Pokémon feel safest."
Crystal made a point of reminding them,
"As long as you don't go to Back Mountain, you're free to explore anywhere else."
Lillian raised her hand curiously.
"Is there something on Back Mountain?"
Crystal explained with a smile,
"It's not especially dangerous, but there are mountain trails, after all, and Pokémon are battling there too."
"Pokémon battles?"
Kiawe's interest was immediately