"Oh? So you're saying the primary ingredient for this medicine is provided by Beedrill? It looks like we can source the materials directly from Beedrill farmers. Truly impressive, Ash!"
Professor Oak was highly satisfied after reviewing Ash's new formula. Not only did it taste great and offer health benefits for humans, but its sweetness would surely appeal to children—meaning another substantial stream of income was on the horizon.
"Yeah, but I'm not sure if honey from other regions can act as a substitute. Since I haven't done actual field tests yet, we should stick to local Beedrill honey for now."
"I understand. Both Joy and I will keep an eye on that. Though, I suspect those old folks in the industry would prefer it if only Beedrill honey worked—they're counting on this to make a killing, after all."
"I don't really get all that adult talk. Anyway, Professor, I'm heading out to play. Make sure to mix that bottle with warm water; it's more soothing that way." Ash waved as he ran out, leaving Oak chuckling behind him. "That kid..."
Oak wasn't worried about Ash's safety. Why? Because Ash had successfully become the most popular person in the area among Pokémon, thanks to his cooking. They wouldn't dream of hurting him; they were too busy lining up to welcome him!
But Ash wasn't actually going out to play. He was going to meet a certain uncle.
*
"Uncle Giovanni! Over here! Over here!"
When Ash found the man, Giovanni asked with a smile, "Did you call me out here for something specific, Ash?"
"Here, try this. It's my new Honey Water blend. I bet your Beedrill will love it."
Looking at the bottle Ash handed over, Giovanni smiled and released his Beedrill. The moment the Pokémon saw Ash, it nuzzled him affectionately. Its eyes lit up at the sight of the Honey Water, but it didn't snatch it; it waited patiently for Ash to move.
Ash laughed, pouring out two half-cups—one for Giovanni and one for the Beedrill. The Beedrill drank impatiently while Giovanni took a sip and asked, "I take it, will it be on the market soon?"
"Yeah. But if you want a strong version for training, Uncle Giovanni, just let me know. I'll make a special batch for you."
Giovanni smiled warmly. "Then I'll hold you to that. Thank you."
The story of how Ash and Giovanni met was simple, yet dramatic. Giovanni, the leader of Team Rocket, had once been ambushed by a rival organization due to a traitor's information. Although Giovanni eliminated them, he was seriously injured in the process.
That's when Ash appeared. Using medicinal herbs gathered by local Pokémon, Ash managed to stop Giovanni's bleeding and, with the help of the Pokémon, got him to a hospital.
Giovanni never forgot the little angel who saved him at his most vulnerable moment.
Once his injuries healed, the organization was wiped out through the combined (yet separate) efforts of Team Rocket and the Pokémon League. Afterward, Giovanni investigated Ash. Finding that Ash was from a single-parent home and was already working with the Oak and Joy families to support his mother, Giovanni grew even fonder of him.
Under the guise of repaying a life-saving debt, Giovanni visited frequently.
Over time, the bond between them surpassed a mere debt of gratitude. Their relationship felt more like father and son, though neither had voiced it aloud. They were both content with things as they were.
"Ash, I heard you're participating in the Summer Camp?"
"Yeah... Mom signed me up without asking. Honestly, I'd rather spend that time doing something productive."
"Hahaha! Spending time with kids your own age isn't a bad thing, you know."
"Pass. We don't have anything in common to talk about."
Giovanni understood. Geniuses are often lonely—that much was a universal truth. However, he didn't want Ash to become a complete recluse, so an idea struck him.
"Ash, how about taking a trip to Hollywood?"
"Huh? Hollywood? What's so good about that place?"
"Go and relax. Trust me. Besides, don't you think it's a great chance for your mother to relax, too?"
"!!!" Other arguments might not have moved Ash, but mentioning Delia worked instantly. Ash was a good son. Realizing he had enough money to ensure his mother had a great time, Ash nodded vigorously. "Right! You're right, Uncle Giovanni! Before the camp, I'll take Mom to Hollywood for a vacation!"
Giovanni couldn't help but smile at Ash's enthusiasm. "In that case, leave the boat arrangements to me."
"Is that okay?"
"Don't underestimate your Uncle Giovanni, kid."
And so, the Uncle and the Brat sat together, chatting idly while sipping honey water.