Chapter 453: Chapter 41: The Enigma of the GS Ball
Kurt led Ash and his group toward Slowpoke Well. Originally, he had intended to visit Nurse Joy for assistance with the Slowpoke, but Brock's confidence convinced him to give the group a chance. It wasn't blind trust; Kurt had faith in Ash's reputation as a talented Trainer.
Ash's unwavering belief in Brock's abilities was a further reassurance, and Brock, touched by Ash's confidence, was determined not to let him down.
When they arrived at the Slowpoke Well, they entered a vast underground cave. The interior was expansive, with an underground river running through it, and hundreds of Slowpoke lounged about in the cool environment.
Brock approached one of the Slowpoke and examined it carefully. After some observation, he concluded that their lethargy stemmed from their naturally dull senses.
"These Slowpoke have been underground for so long that they haven't noticed the drought outside," Brock explained.
"The temperature here is cooler, especially at night, so they've remained comfortable and oblivious to the heat above. Plus, with the underground river and regular feeding, they have no incentive to leave."
Kurt frowned, unconvinced. "Are you sure that's the cause?"
"Have you fed them today?" Brock asked.
"No," Kurt admitted. "The drought has been so troubling that I haven't had the time or mood to come here and feed them."
"Perfect," Brock said with a confident smile. He rummaged through his backpack, pulling out a mix of berries and meat to prepare some Pokémon food on the spot.
As Brock cooked, the aroma began to waft through the cave. At first, the Slowpoke didn't react, but soon one twitched its nose.
Its vacant expression brightened, and it turned toward Brock. One by one, the Slowpoke were drawn to the smell, their sluggish movements replaced by a surprising eagerness.
Kurt stood in awe as more Slowpoke gathered, captivated by the scent of Brock's creation.
Brock began walking back toward the surface, holding the food as bait. The Slowpoke followed, drawn by the tantalizing aroma. Once above ground, the Slowpoke paused, feeling the intense heat for the first time.
Looking around at each other, they abandoned their pursuit of the food. Instead, they instinctively lined up in neat rows, raised their tails, and began to channel Water-type energy.
Hundreds of Slowpoke used Rain Dance in unison, creating a spectacular display. Orbs of water energy formed above their heads and shot skyward, bursting to form dark, heavy clouds. Within moments, a torrential downpour blanketed Azalea Town.
The residents, who had endured nearly three months without rain, rushed outside in joy, cheering and celebrating as the parched earth soaked up the life-giving water. Dry rivers filled again, and farmers rejoiced at the prospect of a revived harvest.
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Back at Kurt's home, he brought tea and snacks to Ash, Brock, and Misty, expressing his gratitude.
Even Pikachu, Togepi, and Kurt's granddaughter Maizie were treated to special treats.
"I cannot thank you enough," Kurt said sincerely. "Your quick thinking and expertise saved us all."
"It was nothing," Brock replied modestly, though his smile betrayed his pride. "I'm just glad I could help."
"You're all so young and talented," Kurt said, shaking his head in admiration. Then his gaze turned serious. "By the way, do you have the item that Professor Oak mentioned?"
Ash nodded and retrieved the GS Ball from his bag. The golden and silver Poké Ball immediately caught Kurt's attention.
"This craftsmanship…" Kurt murmured, turning the GS Ball over in his hands. "It's unlike anything I've ever seen."
As a master Poké Ball craftsman, Kurt was familiar with every known design and material used to create Poké Balls.
Yet the GS Ball defied his expertise. Its structure and composition were entirely foreign, and the materials seemed otherworldly.
"What is this made of?" he wondered aloud. "It doesn't resemble any known Apricorn, and the metallic components are equally baffling."
Ash, Misty, and Brock exchanged curious glances, but none of them could offer any insight.
"For now, I'll need time to study it," Kurt admitted, setting the GS Ball down. "I've never encountered anything like it, but I'll do my best to uncover its secrets."
With nothing more to do, the group prepared to leave. While they were intrigued by the GS Ball's mystery, they knew Kurt needed space to work.
"Wait," Kurt said, stopping them. "I can't let you leave empty-handed, not after everything you've done."
He disappeared into another room and returned moments later with three unique Poké Balls, placing them on the table.
"These are for you," Kurt said. "This is a Lure Ball, ideal for catching Pokémon from fishing. This is a Fast Ball, useful for quick Pokémon. And this is a Heavy Ball, designed for heavier Pokémon."
Ash, Misty, and Brock were taken aback. These custom Poké Balls, handcrafted by Kurt, were rare and valuable.
"We can't accept these…" Ash began, but Kurt waved him off.
"Nonsense. It's the least I can do to thank you. I make them myself, so it doesn't cost me much."
Reluctantly, the trio accepted his gift, each taking one of the special Poké Balls.
"Thank you, Mr. Kurt," Ash said with a grateful smile.
As they left Kurt's home, the rain continued to fall, bringing new life to Azalea Town. Though the GS Ball remained an enigma, Ash and his friends couldn't shake the feeling that it was the key to something extraordinary.
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