The Strongest Trainer - (Translator/editor)

"It's okay! I got my Pokémon a long time ago. This time, I'm just here to pick up the Pokédex and some Poké Balls!" Ash replied casually to everyone's comments.

All of Ash's Pokémon are kept in Luxury Balls. As the name suggests, these Poké Balls provide a very comfortable and lavish environment for Pokémon. With Ash's personality, there's no way he would treat his Pokémon poorly.

While a standard Poké Ball costs $65 pokedollar, and a Luxury Ball is priced at a staggering $685 pokedollar —several times more expensive.

Only someone like Ash, with a strong family backing him, could afford to use such extravagant Poké Balls so freely.

"That's true, Ash! Your strength is clear for all to see. You really are the genius trainer of Pallet Town!" the villagers exclaimed happily in response to Ash's words.

Over the years, Ash's training sessions had occasionally been so intense and noticeable that they caught the attention of the entire village.

Naturally, the villagers knew of his dedication. Furthermore, having a Indigo League Champion from their town would bring significant benefits, such as cutting Pallet Town's taxes in half.

The League Champion title isn't just about winning a trophy—it comes with numerous privileges.

Otherwise, what use would a golden cup and a fancy title be without real benefits?

"You're really late, Ash! I've already received my Poké Balls and Pokédex!" Just as Ash was about to enter Professor Oak's research lab, a familiar figure appeared in front of him.

Sporting coffee-colored spiky hair, a blue long-sleeved shirt, and black jeans, it was none other than Ash's rival and cousin, Gary.

Following behind him were seven or eight girls who seemed to be fangirling over him.

Like Ash, Gary also enjoyed certain privileges as a young member of the Oak family.

In fact, when Ash first received Pikachu, Gary had also been given an Eevee as his starter Pokémon.

This time, just like Ash, Gary came to pick up the Poké Balls and the Pokédex.

However, Gary also selected a Squirtle with a fairly good level. To obtain a starter Pokémon, families must pay a significant sum to the League every year until their child reaches fifteen.

This means that for fifteen consecutive years, it's a substantial financial burden!

This is also why villages in each region don't have many novice trainers; not everyone can afford such an expense.

The Pokédex received by trainers not only provides information about Pokémon but also grants free food and lodging at Pokémon Centers in every city.

"You're really planning to take a sports car on your journey, along with the women following you?" Ash frowned, eyeing the red convertible parked next to Gary.

"Of course! How could someone as noble as me possibly travel on foot? Honestly, Ash, we're both on the same level. Are you seriously planning to walk everywhere?" Gary replied, shaking his coffee-red hair with a smug grin.

"Don't joke around. A motorcycle might make sense, but a sports car is just ridiculous, not to mention impractical!" Ash responded, clearly annoyed.

"Relax, this is nothing for a genius like me!" Gary said dismissively. Though he was aware that Ash was often praised by Professor Oak, Gary didn't truly understand the extent of Ash's skills.

"Forget it, do whatever you want. Just don't come crying when you can't even make it to the semifinals of the conference!" Seeing Gary's indifferent attitude, Ash sighed and walked straight into Professor Oak's lab.

"Did you run into Gary?" Professor Oak asked as Ash entered. This year, three new trainers were starting their journeys from Pallet Town: Ash, Gary, and a girl named Green, who had already left earlier, so Ash didn't get to meet her.

"I did. But based on Gary's current strength and the way he's handling things, I doubt his results in the conference will be very promising. It seems like Uncle Samuel is being too lenient with him," Ash replied with a frown, recalling Gary's earlier behavior.

While Ash wasn't against traveling in style, he personally preferred a motorcycle over a car.

However, for now, he planned to travel on foot for a while to visit a few cities before deciding his next steps.

"Well, your uncle Samuel has been quite busy lately dealing with Team Rocket, and your aunt can't really keep Gary in line," Professor Oak responded, nodding in agreement.

"It's fine. After the Indigo League, I'm sure Gary will mature a lot. Anyway, Grandpa, please give me the Pokédex and Poké Balls. I need to get going!" Although Ash knew Gary might have to take a few detours to grow, it wasn't really his responsibility to worry about it.

"They're all ready for you. Be sure to catch as many unique Pokémon as possible for my research! My recent study materials are running a bit low," Professor Oak said with a slightly disappointed tone, for him, research was pure joy.

And so, Ash took the first step of his journey. Entering the Viridian Forest with Pikachu, he carefully observed his surroundings before proceeding further.

Ash remembered that nearby there was a group of sparrows with very fiery temperaments.

While he wasn't afraid, he preferred to avoid unnecessary trouble. Even if he defeated the sparrows, he wouldn't gain any attribute points, so he saw no reason to waste effort on something unproductive.

As the day passed, Ash realized he had been walking for the entire day without stopping.

It was hard to imagine how Ash managed to keep hiking so long in the original story.

"Forget it, I'll stop here for today," Ash thought.

"It's better to set up camp now; in the evening, I might not have the time." With the long distance still ahead to reach Viridian City, Ash decided to take a break for now.

"Pi~Pika!" After hearing Ashi's words, Pikachu nodded happily from his shoulder.

Pikachu, in a Gym leader level, is sure to surprise anyone who knows its history. It's incredibly difficult to train a Pokémon to such a high level, and in the past, no one had been able to achieve this!

"Come out to take a rest!"

After setting up the tent, Ash released the three Pokémon from his belt.

With a flash of white light, the three Pokémon materialized in front of him.

The first to appear was Onix, made up of massive rocks, its sheer size imposing and intimidating.

The second was Pidgeotto, larger than others of its species.

Lastly, there was Growlithe, a very cute pet, though its appearance shouldn't fool anyone!

"Roar!!"

"Roool!!"

"Growl~!"

Once the three Pokémon materialized, they all let out a roar before affectionately rubbing against Ash.

The bond they shared over the past eight years was incredibly strong, and Ash's skill as their trainer only added to their respect and trust.

"Alright, you guys take a break for now. I'll prepare some food," Ash said, smiling as he looked at the four Pokémon he had raised.