Pokemon : Rewind

"Did you hear the news? Last night, not far from the Pokémon Center, there was some kind of unknown Pokémon attack. 

A circular pit, ten meters wide, appeared. Everything within it vanished, as if it had been completely wiped out!"

At breakfast in the Pokémon Center's restaurant, Ash, Misty, and Tracey overheard the conversation at a nearby table. 

The topic being discussed was none other than the aftermath of Snorlax's outburst the previous night.

Ash, feeling a twinge of guilt, kept his head down and focused on eating. Misty and Tracey, however, were intrigued, leaning closer to listen.

Although the police had worked quickly to restore the area, the commotion had already drawn attention. 

The news spread rapidly, despite a lack of photographic evidence. Some dismissed it as a rumor, while others believed it and even ventured to the site to investigate.

These investigators found signs of recent construction, which only added credibility to the story.

"Ash, didn't you go out to buy water last night?" Misty asked, recalling Ash's brief absence. "Did you notice anything strange?"

Ash remained calm, lying with a straight face. "No, I didn't hear or see anything unusual. It must've happened after I got back."

Misty nodded, accepting his answer without suspicion. Tracey, however, glanced at Ash with a knowing look but chose not to press the matter. The conversation shifted back to breakfast.

---

Lorelei's lecture was scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. at the Orange Stadium in Orange City. 

Although the venue was smaller than the Indigo Plateau Stadium, it could still accommodate 20,000 attendees.

However, with the influx of trainers and tourists on the island, the demand for tickets far exceeded capacity. 

Tickets were distributed via a lottery system, but Ash's victory at the Indigo Plateau Conference granted him special privileges. He didn't need a ticket and was guaranteed VIP seating.

Additionally, Ash's pass included four extra seats, ensuring Misty and Tracey could join him without worrying about the lottery.

At 8:00 a.m., the three of them arrived at the stadium's bustling square. Large screens were set up outside for those unable to get tickets, and the atmosphere was electric with anticipation.

Ash showed his special pass at the entrance and was escorted through a private entrance to the VIP section. 

Their seats were located in the south stand, offering a perfect view of the battlefield. Misty and Tracey couldn't hide their excitement over their prime seating.

The VIP section held around thirty other spectators, most of whom were local dignitaries or notable trainers from other regions. Ash didn't recognize anyone but noticed some glances in his direction.

Among the VIPs was Mayor Orange, a prominent figure in the city. As soon as he spotted Ash, a thoughtful expression crossed his face. After whispering something to his assistant, the mayor continued watching Ash with keen interest.

"The champion of the Indigo Plateau Conference facing off against one of the Elite Four... This could be spectacular," he murmured, his anticipation growing.

By 8:30 a.m., the stadium was packed to capacity, and the hum of conversation filled the air. The excitement was palpable as everyone awaited the start of Lorelei's lecture.

In the stadium's lounge, Lorelei stood poised and ready. A knock at the door broke her focus as a staff member informed her it was time.

"Understood," Lorelei replied, her voice calm and confident.

As she stepped out, the staff member froze, momentarily overwhelmed by her presence. Lorelei's elegance and charm had that effect on people. Smiling gently, she followed them to the battlefield, her every movement exuding grace.

The Host took the stage to begin the introductions.

"Good morning, everyone! Thank you for your patience!"

The bustling stadium fell silent, the crowd's focus shifting to the Host.

"We're honoured to welcome a true legend today—Kanto's Elite Four member, the one and only Lorelei! Known for her unrivalled skills with Ice-type Pokémon, she's here to inspire the trainers of tomorrow!"

The audience erupted in cheers, chanting Lorelei's name.

"Lorelei! Lorelei! Lorelei!"

The Host raised a hand, signalling for quiet. "And now, without further ado, please join me in welcoming our esteemed guest—Lorelei!"

The stadium shook with applause as Lorelei emerged from the tunnel. Her crimson hair glowed under the stadium lights, and her calm smile captivated everyone in the crowd.

The cheers reached a deafening pitch as Lorelei gracefully strode to the center of the battlefield. 

She raised her hands slightly, and the audience quieted almost instantly. The control she commanded over the crowd was a testament to her charisma.

"Thank you all for coming," Lorelei began, her voice steady and clear. "I'm honored to see so many dedicated trainers here today, eager to learn and grow."

The audience roared with renewed enthusiasm, and even some VIPs couldn't resist joining in. Lorelei waited for the noise to die down before continuing.

"As many of you know, I specialize in Ice-type Pokémon, which are often misunderstood and underestimated. Today, I'll be sharing strategies and techniques to maximize their potential in battle. Pay close attention—you won't want to miss a thing."

The stadium hung on her every word, captivated by her passion and expertise. Even Ash, seated in the VIP section, leaned forward in anticipation.

As Lorelei's lecture unfolded, trainers across the stadium took notes, their faces lit with inspiration. 

She demonstrated a deep understanding of Pokémon battles, sharing insights that were as practical as they were profound.

For Ash, it wasn't just an opportunity to learn—it was also a chance to prepare. A battle against Lorelei, one of the Elite Four, seemed inevitable. And he was determined to prove that his victories at the Indigo Plateau were just the beginning.

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