Chapter 313: Delia’s Present

Legendary Pokémon, apart from a select few that embody unique universal forces, often exist in groups rather than as solitary beings.

The Three Legendary Birds are prime examples of this. Around the globe, countless trainers have reported sightings, and some have even managed to capture photographs of these majestic creatures.

Ash, however, didn't fully understand why these Pokémon were revered as deities. Certain mysteries remained beyond his reach for now. 

Still, based on his own theories, he suspected it had something to do with their unparalleled power.

In ancient myths, beings like Osiris' Sky Dragon—referred to as Charon in some interpretations—were believed to possess judgmental powers akin to thunder and lightning, capable of delivering divine punishment. 

Similarly, the Winged Dragon of the Sun God drew its power from the sun itself, radiating heat so intense it could rival the sun's core temperatures.

For the Three Legendary Birds of the Orange Islands, Ash speculated their godly status might be tied to their control over nuclear energy. 

These thoughts, though far from conclusive, sparked Ash's curiosity about the truth behind their legendary titles.

However, he knew he wouldn't understand the full picture until he encountered them in person.

The plan was to meet at Professor Oak's lab at five o'clock the following morning. This early departure was crucial to avoid the reporters and trainers lingering outside his house. The last thing Ash wanted was for them to follow him to the Orange Islands.

Back home, Delia seemed unusually preoccupied. She spent most of her time in her room, leaving Mr. Mime to handle lunch preparations. 

After the meal was ready, she quickly returned to her room.Curious, Ash knocked on her door, but Delia refused to let him in. 

Left with no choice, Ash turned to Misty, hoping she could uncover what his mother was up to.

Misty was granted access but emerged a short while later wearing an expression of amused helplessness. She'd been sworn to secrecy and couldn't share what Delia was working on.

Ash could only sigh in resignation, retreating to his room to watch TV while his curiosity simmered.

That evening, dinner was once again prepared by Mr. Mime. When Delia finally came out of her room, she seemed relaxed and content, her face glowing with the satisfaction of accomplishment.

"Mom, what have you been doing all day?" Ash asked, unable to suppress his curiosity as they ate.

"You'll find out tomorrow," Delia replied with a cryptic smile. Misty had already informed her about their early departure, so she had worked tirelessly to finish her preparations in time.

Though Ash was still curious, he didn't press further. Knowing he needed to wake up early, he went to bed right after dinner. 

Misty followed suit, while Delia stayed up, busy in the kitchen—just as she had done when Ash first began his Pokémon journey.

At four o'clock the next morning, Ash was jolted awake by his alarm clock. After waking Misty, the two quickly freshened up and ate the breakfast prepared by Mr. Mime.

Delia was already awake, bustling about as she helped finalize their preparations. 

Most of Ash's belongings had already been packed, but Delia insisted on adding a few daily necessities to his bag.

"By the way, this is for you and Misty," Delia announced, descending the stairs with two neatly wrapped packages in her hands. She handed one to Ash and the other to Misty.

"Me too?!" Misty exclaimed in surprise, holding the bag as if she couldn't believe her eyes.

Ash, just as bewildered, exchanged a curious glance with Misty before opening his bag. Inside, he found a brand-new set of clothes. 

The style resembled his usual outfit but featured significant changes in color and design.

His current attire—a black vest under a blue jacket and a pair of jeans—was reminiscent of his classic look. 

But the new outfit included a black short-sleeved shirt with a red sleeveless jacket on top, giving it a sleek and modern touch.

Ash's eyes lit up as he examined the outfit, his excitement evident.

"Do you like it?" Delia asked with a warm smile.

"Yeah, I love it!" Ash nodded enthusiastically, his gratitude overflowing. "Thanks so much, Mom!"

"Thank you, Aunt Delia!" Misty chimed in, her voice filled with genuine appreciation.

Delia's thoughtfulness hadn't ended with Ash. Misty's bag also contained a beautifully crafted outfit. 

It included a white sleeveless top that just barely reached her midriff, paired with dark blue denim shorts. 

The ensemble perfectly complemented Misty's style while highlighting Delia's eye for detail.

Yesterday, Delia had mentioned making clothes for Ash as a surprise, but Misty had no idea she'd also receive a gift. 

She was astonished that Delia had managed to create two complete outfits in such a short time.

The quality of the materials and craftsmanship was exceptional—so much so that Misty suspected they could easily pass as designer wear.

Delia wasn't finished yet. "I also made something for Brock," she said, holding up another bag. 

Inside was an outfit tailored to his personality: a black short-sleeved jacket with forest green and orange accents, paired with gray casual pants.

"He's going to love it!" Ash and Misty declared in unison, their familiarity with Brock's taste leaving them confident in their prediction.

Delia beamed at their response, her smile tinged with the bittersweet realization that it was time for them to leave. Glancing at the clock, she said softly, "It's almost time for you to set off, isn't it?"

Ash and Misty, startled by the reminder, hurriedly packed their new clothes into their bags. With heartfelt goodbyes, they turned to leave.

"Take care, Mom!" Ash called out.

"Goodbye, Aunt Delia!" Misty added.

Standing at the doorway, Delia watched their figures fade into the early morning light. Only after they were out of sight did she return inside, finally allowing herself to rest. 

She hadn't slept the entire night, pouring all her love into the three sets of clothes.

As the house grew quiet, Delia sat down, a serene smile on her face. Despite her exhaustion, she felt nothing but pride and warmth for her son and his journey ahead.

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