Reviewing the chapters I realized that something very strange was happening
When I read it in the browser, many sentences are incomplete (missing words), which makes the sentence meaningless and really makes it difficult to understand some parts
But, when I read it in the app, the story and its sentences are complete ...
I don't know the reason for this, but take that into consideration
SUNDAY
Meeting with Mr. Goodshow
The next morning Ash got up very early, and tried not to make too much noise so as not to wake up Goh or Misty
Upon entering the kitchen, he noticed that only Prof Kukui was up
- Good morning Professor - Ash said, a little sleepy - and Lei?
- Good morning Ash. He hasn't woken up yet, so Burnet is getting some more sleep
- Lucky her - Ash said yawning
- Pikaaaaaa - agreed Pikachu
- Come on Ash, eat a little before we go. We can't have Mr. Goodshow waiting for us
Very punctual, Ash and Kukui entered the League offices. As Kukui had mentioned, it was a new building located just one block from the beach. It had 3 floors. Above the main door there was a large decorative Pokeball that distinguished it from the rest of the buildings around it.
Upon entering they were greeted by a tall, thin young man with brown hair
- Good morning, my name is Frank and I am Mr. Goodshow's assistant. Over here, he is waiting for you - said Frank, leading them to a meeting room
- Good morning guys - Mr. Goodshow greeted - This is our meeting room B, it is smaller than the other, but just as cozy - he said proudly
The room had a large central table with 8 comfortable seats around it and a large giant screen. In addition, on a small table to the side there was a small refrigerator and a coffee maker.
-How about we start? - said Mr. Goodshow, inviting them to sit down - we have many things to discuss
- Of course...
- First Ash, I would like to hear your honest opinion about your experience at the Manalo Conference last year ... Be honest, neither Kukui nor I will feel sorry for what you say
- Okay ... Where do I start ...
- What do you think if you tell us in part ... What do you think of the preliminary round? - Kukui asked
- At the beginning it seemed very interesting, the Royal Battles are something very important here in Alola, and it seemed an excellent alternative for the preliminaries ... But ... I could notice that some trainers took advantage of the situation in order to move on to the next round - said Ash
- What are you talking about?
- I saw a few who avoided going into battle, so as not to be defeated ... And there was also the option of teaming up with other trainers
- Oh I see..
- So I'm not sure if the trainers who advanced to the next round really deserved it - Seeing Kukui's surprised face he added - I don't want it to sound bad ... But I'm not sure if Lili, Sophocles or Mallow had passed the preliminaries in some of the other leagues, in fact I'm not so sure if they had obtained the 8 badges ... Maybe with time, more training and more Pokémon yes, but not at that time
- I see what you mean - Kukui said
- How do you think the battles were in the following rounds? asked Mr. Goodshow
- There were very good ones. Although I missed the fact that the battles were with a more Pokémon, especially in the final, I would have loved a 6 vs 6
- As there were no requirements to participate, we assumed that many of the participants would not have a complete team of 6 Pokémon, and therefore the battles were with fewer Pokémon - Kukui explained
- Are you happy to have won? - asked Mr. Goodshow
- Obvious! Not only because of what it means to have won a battle, I feel very fortunate to be able to say that I am the first champion of the Alola League ... A place that welcomed me for a long time and that I really appreciate - Ash said with pride - Also the battle with Prof Kukui and Tapu Koko was spectacular, I think that for me that was my true final
- Excellent ... then let's see if we can find ways to improve some things - said Mr Goodshow
- What did you think of the fact that no badges were needed?
- A bit strange ... And little disappointing
- In what way?
- At least for me, badges are not just an object that shows that I won a battle, for me gym battles aren't a procedure ... - Ash tried to explain - they are a challenge for me and my Pokémon, challenges that helped us to grow and mature. They are proof that we are already one step closer to the League, one step closer to achieving our goal
I see - Mr. Goodshow replied, looking at Ash carefully
- Do you have any suggestions on what we should do?
- I think we could do something similar to the Orange Islands - Ash began - clearly it would not make sense to have 8 gyms, but maybe one per island ... And just like in the Orange Islands, the badges would not be won just for win a battle, but they would have a special meaning
- What are you talking about? - asked Kukui, who did not know the Orange League system
- There, badges are earned by accomplishing a goal, mainly showing that you and your team work well together in different situations. In the case of Alola I think it would be easy to give a special meaning to each badge ... - Ash said - Each island is represented by one of the Tapus, and each Tapu represents something special for the people of Alola ... I think that we could prepare different challenges where the trainers not only demonstrate their skills in battle, but also their teamwork and if they are in harmony with the skills that each of the Tapus represents.
Kukui and Mr Goidshow looked at Ash very surprised, none of them had come up with something like this
Seeing the surprise in the others, Ash tried to explain himself better
- The Tapus are very important to the Alola people, they are part of their culture and customs ... I think that if a trainer wants to enter the Alola League, he needs to show that he also respects the traditions and has characteristics like the ones that the Tapus represent -
That was very touching Ash - Kukui ssid, who was almost on the verge of tears
- It really was Ash, I can see the love and respect that you have for the people of Alola and their customs - Mr. Goodshow added, looking at Kukui in a complicit way - I think that what you suggest is an excellent idea Ash, we should talk about it with the Kahunas to decide the details of the challenges, but we'll have time for that. Frank, you've been taking notes, right?
- The Kahunas? - Ash asked
- Sure ... If we are going to create gyms, I think they should be in charge of giving the badges and performing the challenges - Mr. Goodshow replied
- I think it would be a very good idea that they help us plan the challenges, but I don't think they should be the "Gym Leaders" - Ash replied - their role as Kahunas is different, and it is not just related to a competition ... Also, they are already in charge of the Island Challenges, and I don't think it's a good idea to mix both. The Islands Challenge has a very special meaning for the people of Alola, it's part of their culture and tradition ... I don't think they should be mixed with a League competition ... Eventually could appear a trainer who wants to participate in the Islands Challenge only to get a Z crystal for the League, without appreciating the real meaning of participating in it. I think it would be easier to make that difference noticeable, if the gyms are run by other people
- I see ... Again you are right Ash ... We will look for someone else to fulfill the role of Gym Leader ... - said Mr. Goodshow cheerfully - let's move on... how could we improve the preliminary round?
- I liked the idea of a Royal Battle ... - Ash said thoughtfully - maybe make defined groups of 4 trainers?
- It's not a bad idea... - Kukui added - depending on the number of registered, one or two can advance for each group
- Excellent! - Mr. Goodshow said - What if for the first rounds we leave it in battles of 2 vs 2, then 3 vs 3 in the round of 16 and quarterfinals, and 6 vs 6 for the semifinal and final?
- Yes! - Ash answered excitedly
- Marvelous! We will see the details later with more calm - said Mr. Goodshow - now we can move on to something more ... Interesting
- Are you sure? - Kukui asked
- After what I heard a while ago, I have no doubt ...
- What are you talking about?
- I suppose you know how the Hierarchy system works in the different Leagues ...
- I think so...
- When a trainer manages to be champion of the conference, he wins the right to face the members of the Elite 4 ... As you know, these four trainers are very powerful, surpassed only by the regional champion
- Yes...
- The members of Elite 4 were usually very powerful Gym leaders, or League champions so powerful that they were offered that position...
- Ok ... - Ash said a little confused, not understanding why they were explaining these things to him
- As for the Regional Champion, he is obviously a very strong trainer, who managed to win the League of his native region, defeat all the members of the Elite 4 and the current Champion, and show that he is a great leader. The Champion is not only the best in battle, he has many other responsibilities
- I know, Cinthya has told me about it
- Well ... You see, that's the usual way to determine the Elite 4 members and the champion, in a League that has been running for a long time ... - Mr. Goodshow tried to explain - but in a League that it has just been created is a little different
- Oh ...
- As you understand, in Alola if someone wanted to face Elite 4 in order to be the champion, they couldn't do it ...
- It's true ... - Ash said when he realized the dilemma they were in - And then, how is it done?
- In these cases, both the Elite 4 and the Champion are assigned by me in conjunction with the local Professor, in this case Kukui ... In most cases, after a couple of years start to appear trainers strong enough to start competing for these positions and thus be able to win them fairly
- Oh, I see - Ash said, relieved that there was already a protocol to follow for cases like this
- Initially I had thought about assigning the Kahunas as the members of the Elite 4, but after your comment a while ago ... I'm not so sure ... As you said, they fulfill another role
- But who will you appoint then? - Ash asked
- I really don't know, do you have any ideas? - He asked to Ash and Kukui
After a few minutes in silence, Ash said
- Should we decide now, or can it wait a while?
- What are you talking about? - Kukui asked
- I'm sure there are several very strong trainers that could be Alola Elite 4, but we still don't know them ... Maybe if we give them more time to demonstrate their capabilities ... - Ash explained
- You're right, the Elite 4 is not urgent to define ... We can wait a while. But what can't wait is to define the Champion - Mr. Goodshow said
- But how to appoint a champion if we can't even choose the Elite 4, shouldn't it be one of them? - Ash asked
- Maybe ... But we must choose the Champion without delay. As I mentioned before, the Champion is not only the strongest trainer in the region, he has many other responsibilities to the local people and Pokémon, and to other regions as well...
- What are the characteristics that make someone an ideal Champion? Maybe we can help think of someone - Kukui asked casually
- A champion is someone very good in battle. Very brave and loyal to his friends and Pokémon. Someone who will always ensure truth and justice. A defender of the people and Pokémon in his care. It will defend its region from attack, and will help in times of need or catastrophe. Someone who is always humble and values friendship over power. Someone who will help his region prosper and continue to grow - Mr. Goodshow replied with a tone of admiration.
- Wow ... - Ash said - it really sounds like a great person ...
- Actually, that's why I had thought of you Ash - Mr. Goodshow said with a warm smile.
Ash was in shock, he couldn't believe what he had heard ... Had he really said his name?
- Me? ... But I'm not from Alola ... I can't be the Champion ...
- It is unusual ... But I see no problem in it ... Always the first times have some exceptions, it would not be the first time that the first Champion of a region is not native to it. - Mr. Goodshow explained - Also because of how you referred to the traditions of Alola ... I am sure that it is the right decision, I know that you'll protect the interests of Alola with all your heart
- But .. - Ash said, looking at Kukui with his eyes for a little help
- Don't look at me ... I was just as surprised as you when Mr. Goodshow told me about his idea ... And I can't say that I disagree with him ... I'm sure you'll be a great Champion
- it's settled! Ash Ketchum, you are officially the Alola's Champion - said Mr. Goodshow with a big smile
Seeing that Ash still didn't react, Kukui offered him a glass of water.
Ash couldn't believe what was happening ... He was the Alola Regional Champion ... Regional Champion!
- Yes! - Ash yelled in a belated reaction
- Pikapi? - asked Pikachu, who until now had been sleeping on Ash's lap
- Pikachu! - Ash said, putting Pikachu on the table - Mr. Goodshow just named me Alola Regional Champion! - Ash explained with a giant smile
- Pika? - Pikachu asked surprised, after looking at the rest of those present and confirming that what Ash said was true, Pikachu jumped into the arms of his trainer
- Pikapi!
Several minutes passed before Ash and Pikachu calmed down enough to sit down at the table again.
- You liked the surprise? - Kukui asked
- The best surprise in the world, thank you very much Prof. Kukui and Mr. Goodshow. Thank you for trusting in me ... I will do my best so I don't disappoint you
- I like to listen that, Ash - said Mr. Goodshow happily - now we must clarify some important things
- Okay
- The most important thing is that you must keep this news as a secret ... We'll not announce it to the public until next week's press conference, where we'll also announce the new rules. Tomorrow we'll have a meeting with the Kahunas to inform them of your designation as Champion - explained Mr. Goodshow - From what Kukui has told me, I am sure they will all agree
- Can't I tell someone? I don't think I'll be able to keep a secret like that without telling it to at least one person ... - Ash said
- Okay ... You can tell Misty if you want, but no one else. The news will be announced at the same time in other regions as well and I do not want the information to be leaked - said Mr. Goodshow
- OK thank you...
- Excellent, as I was saying a while ago, being a Champion implies many responsibilities, but it also has many benefits - said Mr. Goodshow - Frank, he is not really my assistant, but yours ... He will help you manage your schedule and with various other things. Although during these weeks he will also be working for me
- Oh, great - Ash said, smiling at Frank.
- It will be an honor to work with you Champion Ash - Frank said respectfully
- Oh ... Please just call me Ash - Ash said embarrassed
- Okay...
- You will have a monthly salary, and you will also receive a percentage of the profits from the Merchandising related to you or events in which you participate
- Merchandising?
- Of course! All the children will want your items, Caps or T-shirts with your official Logo, posters, Pikachu stuffed animals with your cap, etc ... - Kukui explained
- Official logo?
- Of course! Each Champion has an official Logo ... I'm sure you've seen them before ...
- This is yours - said Mr. Goodshow, as the Logo was displayed on the giant screen.
A Pokeball with an A in the upper right and a K in the lower left, both letters attached to the center circle
- Wow
- That logo will also be stamped on all your Pokeballs, but that will be later ...
- These offices are really your offices. Come, let's go take a look
Mr. Goodshow gave them a complete tour of the building. On the first floor there was a small but cozy waiting room next to the reception; a room for press conferences; meeting room B; a guest bathroom; a small kitchen, next to a louge area; and a little store room. On the second floor was Frank's office; a small extra office; another bathroom; and meeting room A, which was much larger than B {for alñt least 20 people). On the third floor was Ash's office; a bathroom; and a huge Lounge room.
Ash's office was huge. It had a large window with a beautiful view of the beach. It had a large desk that had its respective computer; and a large bookcase to one side, full of many books about Pokémon and battles. There was also a small table, similar to the one in the meeting room, with a small refrigerator and a coffee maker. In one of the corners there was a table with three chairs to hold small meetings. Finally at one end there was a large sofa that looked directly at the beach or a large screen on the wall
- Wow ... This is ... Amazing - Ash said as he looked at his new office
- Frank will teach you all about the computer files and other formalities later - said Mr. Goodshow - Now let's move on to the lounge room, which I think you and Pikachu will also like
The lounge room was also very large. It had two large sofas and several beanbags (which Pikachu found very comfortable), a coffee table, and a large screen on the wall. It also had a small table with a refrigerator and coffee maker. In addition, there was a large shelf with many types of Pokémon food.
- The idea is that Pikachu or one of your other Pokémon can rest and entertain themselves here while you are working in your office - Kukui said, explaining the Pokémon food
- Mr. Goodshow ... I really don't know what to say ... - Ash said, overwhelmed with so much stuff
- If you no longer have anything to say, wait until you see the rest - Kukui said with a smile
- There is more?
- Of course! Come on, he must already be waiting for us ...
A black car was waiting for them at the front of the building. When they was approaching the car, a man in his 50s got out of the car to open the doors.
- Good morning Evan, I guess you have everything ready
- I dure do Mr. Goodshow
- Where are we going? - Ash asked confused
- You will see
Only about 10 minutes later Ash could notice Evan slowing down and entering a large house on top of a small hill, with a beautiful view of the ocean.
- This is your house Ash - said Mr. Goodshow
- What?!
- Pika ?!
- Well, like the office, It belongs to the "current Alola Champion", if at any moment you are defeated it will be the next Champion house ... But I am sure it will be several years before that happens - Mr. Goodshow explained.
- It's huge ... - Ash said looking in wonder at the house
The house was white, two floors high, with huge windows that let in a lot of light and admire the landscape. The main entrance was right in the middle dividing the house into two equal parts. It also had a huge garden.
- Do you want to come and do the tour? - Kukui asked
- Of course...
- Evan is the steward, and he can also be your chauffeur if you need him - said Mr. Goodshow, formally introducing Evan
- Nice to meet you Evan
In his tour of the house, Ash was able to see the following:
Upon entering the house there was a small corridor that divided into three directions (left, front and right) and a staircase that led to the second floor.
In front was the Living - dining room, with a beautiful table and large armchairs, just behind you could see a nice terrace that led to a pool. To the left was a beautiful kitchen, very spacious with a nice little dining table; the kitchen had two back doors, one led to a large store room and the other led to a spacious suite room (Evan's room). To the right the corridor continued to where there were three doors: the first was a Lounge room for Pokémon, similar to the one in Ash's office, but better equipped and larger; in front was the gym, with exercise machines for Ash and his Pokémon; the last door was a bathroom.
The second floor was also divided in two, in this case by the staircase. Right in front of the staircase was Ash's office, this one was much smaller than the other, but it had a desk and a small sofa. To the left of the staircase the hallway led to two doors: one door led to a large Lounge room, with large armchairs and a huge screen; In front was the door that led to Ash's suite bedroom, which had a large king-size bed, a small table and a comfortable sofa, a large bathroom and a walking closet. To the right of the staircase the hallway led to four little guest rooms (two on each side) and a bathroom at the end of the hall.
After touring the house, it was time to see the garden.
Outside the Living room there was a large terrace, with a sunshade and a table. From the terrace there was a small stone path that led to a beautiful pool, which at its side had a few deck chairs. Towards the right side of the pool was a battlefield, ideal for training. But that was not all, there was also a large expanse of grass, at the bottom a small pond, and surrounding the entire property a small forest
- It's beautiful, really beautiful - Ash said, very amazed by what was now his home
- I'm glad you like it Ash - said Mr. Goodshow - Now, why don't we go to the dining room, Evan has prepared us a delicious lunch to celebrate
- Can Misty, Goh and I stay here these days? That way we wouldn't disturb Professor Kukui and Professor Burnet - Ash asked as they walked back to the house.
- Sure, Ash, it's your house
- You're not staying here?
- No, I'm staying in a hotel
Upon entering the house, Ash could see that the table was already ready, everything seemed perfect, except for one detail
- Evan, why are there only three seats at the table? - Ash asked Evan who was finishing arranging the dishes
- Frank and I will have lunch in the kitchen Mr. Ketchum - Evan replied, not understanding Ash's bewilderment
- Oh, of course not ... Unless we have something confidential to discuss during lunch - Ash said, looking at Mr. Goodshow for an answer, when he shook his head, he added - we'll all have lunch together
- Okay Mr Ketchum, I will go for what is missing
- And please call me Ash, Frank and you will work with me, right? Then we should be friends - Ash suggested with a smile
- Sure, Ash ... I would like that - Evan replied
Evan was a great cook, lunch was delicious and very entertaining. As Mr. Goodshow said the conversation did not include any work, after all it was a lunch to celebrate, not to work
- Now that you know your new home and we enjoy a delicious lunch, it's time to go back to work - Mr. Goodshow said as he got up to go to one of the armchairs in the Living room - I have not finished telling you the benefits of be a champion
- There's still more!? - Ash said surprised
- Yes, of course. If necessary, you'll have access to the private jet or the League helicopter. You'll be able to carry ten Pokémon at the same time, although this will not be activated until after the official announcement - said Mr. Goodshow - And last but not least, you will have your own house, yours ... not the Champion's
- Another house? - Ash asked in disbelief
- That's right, how I mentioned this house belongs to the Champion, so eventually you will have to hand it over to your successor. The other house will be yours forever, whether you are still a champion or not. And you can choose the city where you want it, I assume you will want it in Kanto
Ash couldn't put together a coherent sentence to answer Mr. Goodshow, his mind was overwhelmed with thousands of thoughts at once. Was this really happening?
- Ash? - Kukui asked
- Oh, sorry ... Yes, it would probably be in Kanto
- Don't worry, there is still time for you to make that decision with calm. Frank can help you find and choose the perfect one
- Thanks
- Well, now we have to talk a bit about some of your responsibilities
- Sure - Ash said, paying close attention to what he was about to hear.
- The most urgent thing now is to prepare the new version of the Manalo Conference. Prepare the new rules, find the Gym Leaders. Build the Gyms. Design the badges, have them manufactured, etc - said Mr. Goodshow - Our plans are to announce the new rules next week, so that in another month we will officially start the registrations and the season to win the badges, since in just 6 months it would be the Manalo Conference
- Ok ... - Ash said, overwhelmed with so much information - maybe I should be writing down all this ...
- Don't worry, for now Frank is taking notes. Other of your responsibilities are public appearances at events, whether for an inauguración ceremony, competition, interview, exhibition battles, etc ... Frank will be in charge of managing your agenda. At the beginning you will see that you will have many activities, and that your schedule will not have free moments, but after a few weeks everything will calm down ...
- Okay..
- Once a month we have a meeting between all the Champions and me. Mainly to keep abreast of how each region is doing. This is why you must have constant communication with the leaders of Alola, and thus be able to be aware of everything that happens. After the official announcement we will have a meeting to officially introduce you to them
- Calm down, I'll be in that meeting too - Kukui said, trying to reassure Ash
- I see you are a little overwhelmed Ash, what happens?
- Oh ... Nothing, it's just that with all the excitement I forgot about the world championship ... And I would have to tell Professor Cerise ... and ...
- Calm down Ash ... being the Champion does not mean that you will have to live in Alola and leave all your projects abandoned. As long as you don't neglect your duties, I'm sure some way can be found that will allow you to continue your world championship battles, as well as your investigations with Professor Cerise. - Mr. Goodshow reassured him - all the Champions have continued to carry out other activities, the key is to organize well and be there when is necessary
- Thanks...
- What was I ssying ... Ah, it is also possible that you will be asked for help in some special missions, to work together with the Pokémon Ranger, other Champions, or the police. But I'm sure this will be something very simple for you - Mr. Goodshow said, seeing Ash's astonished face added - I told you that I was very aware of you Ash, I am aware of all your adventures ... I am partly responsible that the details about your participation in them have not reached the press
- Oh thanks...
- Do not mention it. Last but not least, there are your duties to the citizens and Pokémon of Alola. You must not only protect the region, but also try to make it a better place
- Sure I will, I promise
- Excellent! In that case I think we can move on to the next thing on our schedule for today. Frank, could you call the photographer?
- Sure, I'll tell him to come - said Frank, taking out his cell phone
- Ash, it's time to call Professor Oak - Kukui said - and ask him to send you some of your Pokémon
- Why, what going on?
- We will have a photoshoot. When we announced it, it'll be in all the news, magazines and newspapers ... And they will need official photos and videos of you and some of your Pokémon. Photos and videos that we'll take today in the garden
- As we'll be staying here these days .. do you think I can bring all my Pokemon? So we could continue training ... Well, not all the Tauros, but all the others - Ash asked Mr. Goodshow
- I dont see why not...
- Great! But we'll have to go to the Pokémon center to be able to transfer the Pokémon - said Ash
- No, it is not necessary - said Mr. Goodshow as he went to the Pokémon Lounge - here you have a phone equipped with the transfer system
- Oh, how useful ... - Ash said, as he dialed Professor Oak's Laboratory
After a few seconds of waiting, someone finally answered the call
- Hello Professor - Ash greeted
- Hi Ash, I was wondering when you would call - Prof. Oak replied - we saw your interview last night, congratulations
- Thank you Professor
- Do you want to trade any of your Pokémon?
- No ... Actually I wanted to ask if you could send them to me
- Come on Ash, you know you already have 6 Pokémon with you ...
- I know, but .. - Ash said, looking to Mr. Goodshow for help.
- Hello Samuel - Mr Goodshow greeted approaching the camera
- Charles! I didn't know you were with Ash
- You see ... The League has a house here in Alola, which has a large garden. Ash and his friends will be staying in it these days, and it would be ideal if Ash could have all of his Pokémon with him so that he can continue training between battles.
- Oh sure .. I see ...
- The Pokémon will stay here in the house, and Ash will only carry the 6 allowed
- Sure, sure ... In that case I'll find Tracey to help me with this ... We'll call as soon as we can
- Thank you very much Professor
About an hour later, all of Ash's Pokémon (only one of the Tauros) were already getting to know the gardens.
The photographer and his team already had everything prepared
- Before starting, Ash I have something for you - said Mr. Goodshow handing Ash a package - Burnet and Kukui were the ones who chose it
In the package was a whole new outfit ... It was very similar to his style during Kalos, but somehow it was an improved version.
- Go change, the idea is that you have it on you in the photos
- Okay..
Ash went to his room to change clothes. On the bed he unfolded all the components of the package. A black shirt with fine yellow lightning bolts on one side; a dark blue jacket, much like the one he wore on Kalos; red and black sneakers, with the same lightning bolts in the black areas; dark gray pants and shorts, possibly alternatives for different weathers; a pair of black fingerless gloves with thin yellow rays on the back; Finally, the outfit was completed by a new cap, it was very similar to the one he used in Sinnoh, but complete black with a red visor, and in front it was adorned with the blue silhouette of a Pokeball with the letters on it, its official logo
- Wow ...
After changing, Ash looked at himself in the mirror, and was very surprised to see himself ... He looked more ...Imposing? ... He wasn't sure if that was the right word, and he didn't know how, but seeing himself in the mirror really felt like he was looking at a Champion
Ash decided it would be best to remove the splint from his wrist during the photoshoot, he just had to remember to be careful and put it back on as soon as they were done.
Upon returning to the garden, Kukui stared at him and then added
- Burnet definitely knows how to choose clothes ... You look like a Champion Ash
- Thank you ... - Ash said, and then go to Mr. Goodshow - I decided to put on my shorts, since we are in Alola, I don't know if it will be okay ...
- Sure Ash
- Ok Ash, for the first pictures I need you to choose a potential team of your 6 strongest Pokémon - said Jack, the photographer
- Ok, ... Pikachu, Charizard, Infernape, Lucario, Greninja and Sceptile, please come!
The photographer took several photos and videos of Ash playing with them, in different poses, or training with them
- Now I need some shots just of Pikachu and you
- Now we will take some sharing with all your Pokémon, but without looking at the camera
- Excellent, now we are missing some photos of you ...
Surprisingly those were the ones that took the longest. The photographer took pictures of all the poses he could come up with, and then shot several videos of Ash throwing Pokeballs, running, jumping, etc.
By the time the photoshoot finally ended, it was around 6 in the afternoon and Ash was exhausted ...
- Great job Ash, with this we have a lot of material - said Mr. Goodshow - I think that has been enough for today, you deserve a good rest ... Remember that no one should see you with those clothes until it is official. And remember that tomorrow we have a meeting with the Kahunas in the morning and in the afternoon it is your battle
- Right ... - Ash said ... Just thinking about it got him more and more tired
- Rest, and I see you tomorrow - Mr Goodshow said goodbye
- Ash, did you tell Misty and Goh that we were here? - Kukui asked
- No .. - Ash replied - I really hadn't even had time to think about them
Just then Ash's cell phone vibrated in his pocket
"Misty: We are about to get back to Professor Kukui. We brought you ice cream. Are you still busy?"
- They're coming back - Ash said to Kukui - but I can't tell them to come straight here ... all our things are at your house Professor ...
- Tell them you'll see them there, Evan can take us and then bring you back - Kukui suggested
- Great idea, but I must go change my clothes first
"Ash: I just finished, I'll see you at Professor's house in a few minutes" Ash wrote, before going up the stairs to go change his clothes again
Upon entering Professor Kukui's house, they could notice that Misty and Goh had already arrived
- Hi Ash, hurry up or your ice cream will melt - Goh said
- How did it go? - asked Misty
- Very well, we were able to advance in many things - Kukui replied, fearing that Ash would not be able to resist telling the great news
- Yes all OK. But I'm exhausted - Ash said while eating his ice cream
- Well, maybe you can get some sleep before dinner - suggested Goh.
- Ehm .. I don't think there is time for that ... - Ash replied
- And why not? - Misty asked puzzled, it was not that late yet and Professor Burnet had not started to prepare dinner yet
- Because we won't have dinner here ... - Ash replied - in fact we should go now - Ash added when he finished his ice cream
- Where? - Goh asked
- You'll see ... But we must go get our things first
- Why?
- Because we will stay elsewhere - Ash answered and then turned to Professor Burnet
- Thank you for everything Professor
- We'll go to the Pokémon Center? - Goh asked
- No...
- Ash stop so much mystery! - Misty said irritated
- Come on Misty, don't be such a killjoy ... Just go get your things
- Where's Pikachu?
- He is waiting for us there - Ash replied, seeing that Misty still did not intend to go for her things, he added - Well, stay here ... Evan is waiting for us outside, we must hurry - he said as he went up to the Loft for his things
- Evan, and who is Evan? - asked Misty
- If you don't hurry you won't know him - Ash replied
Misty and Got gave each other puzzled looks, but decided it was better to do what Ash said, he seemed very serious about leaving them here if they didn't hurry.
A few minutes later, Ash led his friends to the car where Evan was waiting for them.
- Guys, this is Evan - Ash said - Evan, they are Misty and Goh
- Nice to meet you. Are we ready to go? - asked Evan
- Yes thanks. Come on guys get inside
- Ok ... - Goh said
As theyra began the return trip Evan asked
- What would you like for dinner?
- I don't know ... Whatever you have on hand ... as fast as possible ... I'm starving - Ash replied
At that Misty and Goh were more and more confused ... Who was Evan? Why was he asking Ash about dinner?
Only a few minutes later the great house appeared in front of them. When Misty realized that this was their destiny, she asked
- Whose house is this Ash?
- The League ... Mr. Goodshow suggested that we stay here these days - Ash replied
- Wow, I must say that Mr. Goodshow has good taste in choosing houses - Misty said, admiring the beautiful property
- And wait until you see the inside ...
- Can we stay here without problems? - Goh asked
- Of course we do, I'll show you you're rooms - Ash said
- I'll let you know as soon as dinner is ready - Evan said
- Thanks Evan, we'll be touring the house - Ash said, while taking his friends to tour the house and see where they would sleep
After knowing the house, it was the turn of the gardens, where they met Pikachu and Ash's other Pokémon
- Did you bring all your Pokémon? - Goh asked amazed
- That's right, Mr Goodshow thought it was a good idea to have them here, so we could continue training
- I see that Mr. Goodshow still likes you a lot ... You can tell he wants you to win the battles - Misty said
- Ahaha I think so - Ash replied
Just as Ash finished showing them the gardens Evan told them that dinner was ready.
During dinner Goh and Misty recounted their adventures of the day on Akala Island with the others, while Ash was strangely quiet.
When everyone had finished and Evan was clearing the plates Goh asked
- Ash, are you okay? You've been very quiet ...
- Oh yeah ... I was just thinking - Ash replied, not paying much attention to Goh looking absentmindedly at the last thing left on his plate
Misty and Goh looked at each other, definitely something was wrong with Ash ... And apparently he had no intention of talking about it.
- I'm a little tired ... I think I'll go to bed - Goh said, nodding at Ash so that Misty understood his plan. Goh knew that if anyone could make Ash talk, that was Misty ... so the most sensible thing to do was to give them some privacy - Good night
- Good night - Misty answered, thanking Goh's gesture
After looking at Ash for a few minutes and seeing that Ash just kept gazing idly at the space in front of him, Misty couldn't take it anymore and asked
- Ash, is everything okay? Did something happen today that has you so distracted?
Seeing that Ash still did not react, Misty a little worried squeezed his hand to see if that helped - Ash?
- Mhmm? ... Oh, I'm sorry Misty ... - Ash replied, finally coming out of his trance - And Goh? - Asked surprised not seeing his friend
- He went to bed ... Didn't you hear when he said goodbye? - Misty replied still a little worried
- Not really, I didn't hear it ... I'm sorry ... Did you tell me something?
- I was asking you if you're okay ... Did something happen today that has you so distracted?
- Yes, I'm fine ... Actually ... I need to tell you something - Ash said, standing up abruptly. - Come on! - He added, taking Misty's hand and leading her towards the gardens
- Wait Ash ... Didn't you have something to say to me? - Misty asked, realizing that Ash was still walking in the direction of the small pond at the bottom of the garden
- Yes, but not here ... it's something very important - Ash said very serious
When they finally reached the furthest end of the pond from the house, Ash released Misty's hand and sat on a small log
- This is a good place - Ash said
- You're making me a little nervous Ash, what's wrong? - Misty asked, sitting next to Ash
- Where do I start ... - Ash said, trying to sort the ideas in his mind - during today's meeting with Mr. Goodshow we defined many things about the new league rules
- That is good, no?
- Yes, very good ... But it's not the most important thing Mr. Goodshow wanted to talk about today ...
- Oh ... What did he want to talk about?
- On who will occupy the positions of Elite 4 and Champion of Alola
- Oh, I see ... Wait, how can a trainer compete with the Elite 4 to be the champion ... If there is no Elite 4? ... And how do you choose the Elite 4 in this case ?
- I was wondering that myself ... Mr. Goodshow told me that usually when a new League is created, both the Elite 4 and the Champion are designated
- Oh ... It makes sense ... It'll be the Kahunas I guess
- No, ... Their role is not linked to a Pokémon competition
- And who will he choose? he'd have to meet all the strong trainers here in Alola to pick someone
- That's the point ... He doesn't know them ...
- And how will he do it then?
- For now, he will leave the Elite 4 decision for later, when more strong Alolan trainers become known
- It seems like a good option ... And the Champion?
- That cannot wait, he said it must be defined before announcing the new rules of the Manalo Conference
- Oh, that doesn't leave much time to look for strong trainers
- No ... So he has another plan. He said that usually in cases like this, someone from another region is chosen, who fulfills the role of Champion until someone native can defeat him and win his position.
- Oh ... Then will he choose a Elite 4 from any of the other regions?
- No ... he said that not only does he want it to be a strong trainer, he also wants someone who respects and knows the traditions of Alola, and who cares about his people and his Pokémon
- That makes sense ... But if it's not an Elite 4, who is it going to choose?
- ... Me ... - Ash replied, looking into Misty's eyes
Misty, surprised by Ash's serious attitude and answer, took a few seconds to assimilate what she had heard and react
- Ahhh! Ash! - Misty shouted excitedly, jumping up - Are you serious? - She asked as she took Ash's hands to put him standing in front of her, seeing that Ash nodded, she wrapped him in a big hug - Congratulations Ash, this is great news! - Misty said, still hugging him - I'm very proud of you - she finally said when she finished the hug and wiped a small tear that ran down her cheek
- Thanks Misty ... But it wasn't for you to cry ...
- They are happy tears ... Why aren't you screaming and celebrating like crazy? Are you not happy?
- Of course I am! ... But I still can't believe that this is reality and not a dream ... I'm not dreaming, right?
- No Ash, it's your dream come true - Misty answered, taking his hand to guide him to sit down again - Believe it, you earned it
- Thanks - Ash said with a big smile
- What did your mom say when you told her?
- Nothing ... I haven't told anyone else yet
- What, and why not?
- Because it is still a secret ... No one should know until next week when Mr. Goodshow officially announces it ... It was too big a secret for me, so I asked permission to tell it to at least one person, and he said I could tell you
- I am honored to be the first one to know ... That is why you wanted to get away from the house, so that Goh will not listen to us
- That's right...
- And this is what kept you so distracted during dinner ...
- Yes...
- But there is something else, right? ... If it was just this, you would have been eager to finish dinner and tell me ... What is it that keep you do distracted?
- Do you really think I deserves to be the Champion? Being the Champion is not only about battles ... It's much more ... What if I'm not good enough for the people of Alola?
- Mr. Goodshow told you why he had chosen you and not someone else?
- Yes...
- Let me guess ... He said that you are not only a great trainer, but you are also a great person ... Someone who cares about people and Pokémon alike. Someone very loyal and brave, always ready to defend and protect those who need it. Someone who has saved the world multiple times and is still humble about it ...
- Something like that ... How do you know?
- Simple ... because I know you, and better than Mr. Goodshow ... If there is someone perfect to be a Champion is you Ash - Misty said, staring at Ash
- Thanks Misty - Ash replied with a big smile
- When you really try, you can do anything Ash ... And I'm sure you will be a great Champion - Misty said, giving his hands a little squeeze and looking into his eyes, so that he could see the sincerity of his words in them
Ash looked at Misty closely, those blue eyes not only showed the sincerity of Misty's words ... They said much more ...
Misty looked closely at Ash, seeing how upon hearing his words that characteristic glow that illuminated his face began to appear, the one that appear in the face of a new challenge ... But that special glow was only present for a few seconds, being quickly replaced by a new glow that Misty never had seen before... a sweeter and warmer one, accompanied by a big smile
Lost in each other's gaze and feeling a tingling in their hands, little by little they approached each other to end in a tender kiss under the stars.
-And I thought that this day couldn't be more perfect - Ash said, at the end of the kiss
- Haha don't be ridiculous ... - Misty answered, blushing a little - I'm glad I could be a part of it - she said as she settled down to rest her head on Ash's shoulder
- Thank you for always been there for me, and advised me from the beginning ...
- There is nothing to thank Ash ... and anyway I think you should thank Brock more than me ...
- Haha maybe you're right
- Oh, Brock is going to freak out when he finds out about this
- About what? That I am Champion or that we kiss - Ash asked laughing
- Both ... although I think he'll go crazier with the second ...
- It is probable...
- Ash ... do you think we can keep this a secret too? - Misty asked a little nervous - It's not that I don't want to be with you ... but ...
- But? - Ash asked, a little hurt by Misty's reaction
- Throughout the Festival you'll be the center of attention of Alola, and of the world press once the official announcement is made. I don't want the press to comment on "our relationship" before it has even started.
- Oh, you're right ... I don't want that either ...- Ash said, already more relaxed
- Later we can share it if you want, but for now I want those who participate in this relationship to be just the two of us - Misty said flirtating a little and kissing Ash on the cheek - Well, that excludes our friends and close ones, we can tell them without problems ... well, not my sisters, if they find out they will tell everyone in a couple of minutes
- ahaha ... okay, we will tell them ... but not yet ... as you say, I want to enjoy this secret between just the two of us for a few days - Ash said, ending with a passionate kiss
After been sitting on the edge of the pond for a while, enjoying each other's company, Ash and Misty decided it was time to go to bed. It had been a long day, they were both exhausted, and the festival hadn't even started yet