Chapter 83: Raichu and Punit's Banter

The soft hum of the 𝘚𝘵. 𝘈𝘯𝘯𝘦 engines vibrated through the polished wooden floors as I made my way down the corridor. The lights were dim, casting a warm glow that mixed with the faint scent of the ocean wafting in from the deck. I glanced down at Raichu, cradled comfortably in my arms, his fur warm against my chest. He looked up at me with those wide, pleading eyes. I rolled mine in response.

"Why don't you walk, bro?" I said, my tone relaxed but firm.

Raichu blinked up at me, his big ears twitching as he nuzzled closer to my chest, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. He wasn't walking today, clearly. I sighed, but a small smile crept up on my face.

"You know, what I did was necessary." I kept my voice low, almost to myself. "We have a goal to complete, and I don't want anyone—especially them—getting false expectations. We're only ten. They'll find someone better when it's time for all that... marriage."

Raichu gave a soft chitter, rubbing his face against my shirt, his joy infectious. I couldn't help but give him a quick kiss on his forehead. He deserved it.

We finally stepped into the party room, the atmosphere shifting as the buzz of conversation and laughter hit me. Trainers were everywhere—some engaged in friendly battles, their Pokémon clashing in brilliant flashes of light and power, while others piled their plates high with free food. A few were off in corners, flirting like it was the last night of their lives. I weaved through them, keeping my pace slow but steady, scanning for an empty table.

I found one near the back and set Raichu down on the floor. He hopped to his feet, shaking his fur as I grabbed two plates—one for me, one for him. It didn't take long to fill them up: my plate stacked with a few grilled meats and a side of veggies, Raichu's with an assortment of berries and whatever looked like it wouldn't upset his electric stomach.

We settled at the table, Raichu hopping up onto the seat across from me. He immediately dug into his plate, cheeks puffing out as he devoured the food with little care for decorum. I smirked, taking my time with my meal. He'd need the energy for later.

When I finished, I glanced at Raichu. He looked up at me, eyes sparkling, his plate already cleared. His tail swished expectantly.

"More?" I chuckled, standing up to grab him another helping. This guy could eat forever if I let him.

I placed the second plate down in front of him, and he started munching again with the same enthusiasm. Just as I sat back down, I felt a whisper of breath against my ear, too close, too familiar.

"Did you miss me, Punit?"

I didn't flinch. Didn't even turn my head.

"I didn't," I said, keeping my tone calm. "But it looks like you did."

Misty slid into the chair next to me, her hand already moving to pat Raichu's head. "Cute as always," she said, smiling.

I gave her a sidelong glance. "You shouldn't touch him while he's eating. Unless you want to be on the receiving end of a Thunderbolt."

She pulled her hand back just in time as Raichu's fur sparked dangerously, his attention still fully on his plate. She chuckled nervously, then leaned back, watching him.

"Why the outfit change?" Misty asked, raising an eyebrow. "White shirt, black jacket, black jeans... Why not just go all black with a shirt too?"

I rolled my eyes, not bothering to dignify that with a response. She was always like this, poking at me.

"Where's Erin?" she asked next.

I took a slow sip of my juice before answering. "With Alisha and Lucy."

Misty nodded, tapping her fingers on the table. "Ash and Brock are around too. Brock's... well, you know how he is. Flirting with every girl he can find. And Ash is doing some friendly battles."

As we sat there, a younger trainer approached, clearly eyeing Raichu with interest. He gave me a respectful nod, trying to muster up some courage.

"Brother," he said, his voice steady but with a hint of nerves. "Could I have a friendly battle with your Raichu?"

I glanced at Raichu, who was still devouring his food, clearly oblivious to the world around him.

"Sure," I said, giving the trainer a small nod. "Looks like he could use some exercise. But let him finish eating first."

The trainer's face lit up with excitement, and he nodded eagerly. "I'll wait at the makeshift battleground."

As he walked off, Misty raised an eyebrow. "So, you gonna have fun?"

I leaned back in my chair, my arms crossed as I gave her a slow smirk. "Misty, I always have fun. No matter what I do."