The first to greet them was Dragonite, a large, orange, Dragon-type Pokémon. It landed with a thundering flap of its wings, its gentle eyes meeting Kai's. A deep rumble escaped its throat, a soft roar of recognition. Kai's expression softened as he stepped forward, his hand outstretched.
"Dragonite," Kai said quietly. "I never thought I'd see you again."
Dragonite gave a low, rumbling growl, nuzzling Kai's hand affectionately. It had been a long time, but their bond had never been broken.
"Salamence," Kai said with a grin as the majestic blue dragon with large wings landed beside them. The Pokémon's intense gaze softened at the sight of Kai, and it dipped its head in greeting.
Next, Gengar appeared from the shadows, its ghostly form materializing as it floated toward Kai with its mischievous grin. It gave a playful laugh, floating around Kai in circles, before settling beside him.
"Slowking," Kai called as the water and psychic-type Pokémon lazily made its way over. With its slow, calm movements, the Pokémon sat by Kai's side, its eyes full of warmth and wisdom.
Zoroark, always the trickster, emerged next, its form flickering like a mirage. The dark-type Pokémon gave Kai a sly look before transforming briefly into a copy of Roaring Moon, giving the illusion of his Paradox Pokémon in a playful jest.
Kai smiled, "You always knew how to surprise me, Zoroark."
Ninetales, the graceful Fire-type, walked over next, its tails swishing elegantly in the wind. Kai's eyes softened as the Pokémon brushed up against him. Its flame-like tails glowed warmly.
"Milotic," Kai said, and the beautiful Water-type Pokémon swam through the air, its long body undulating with grace. The shimmering light from its scales caught the sun, creating a dazzling display.
Finally, the sound of a mighty roar echoed as Gyarados emerged from the water. The sea serpent Pokémon, powerful and fierce, coiled around the edge of the lake, its crimson eyes meeting Kai's as it let out a low growl of recognition.
Kai stood for a moment, taking in the sight of his team. These were the Pokémon who had been with him since the beginning, the ones he had relied on in his toughest battles. His eyes drifted over each one, a sense of warmth and nostalgia washing over him.
Blue Oak stood silently to the side, clearly impressed by the team. "Well, Kai, I must say... They're still a force to be reckoned with, and they've clearly got a deep connection with you."
Kai watched with a proud smile. "They always have, Blue. And they always will."
Kai turned to face them all, his expression a mix of determination and calm. "It's good to see you all again. It's been too long."
He turned back to Professor Oak, his gaze steady. "I'm going to need them with me again. The journey ahead... it's going to be unlike any other."
Professor Oak gave a nod, understanding the weight of Kai's words. "You've got a lot ahead of you, Kai. But with your team, I have no doubt you'll face whatever comes."
Blue Oak finally spoke, his voice quieter now. "I can see that. Just make sure you don't keep these guys waiting too long. They look like they're ready for whatever you have in mind."
Kai's eyes met each of his Pokémon again, his resolve firming as he looked into their familiar eyes. "Let's do this. Together."
With that, Kai's Champions Team surrounded him, ready to face whatever came next, just as they had always done.