Chapter 8

As the intense gym battle unfolds in the background, Ash and Alice stealthily make their way to Adam behind one of the towering bookshelves, their footsteps muffled by the ambient sounds of Pokémon clashing and trainers strategizing. Lillie, Gary, and Alain, stationed strategically around the library, keep a vigilant watch, ensuring no unwanted guests interrupt their clandestine meeting.

Adam, his expression a mix of determination and concern, directs his gaze towards Ash and inquires, "So I see the plan is still in motion?" Ash, his eyes reflecting a steely resolve, nods affirmatively and responds, "Yes, Father."

Unbeknownst to many, Adam harbors a profound secret—he is not just Adam but also Ash's biological father, along with Mark, Minami, Golly, Trenor, and Insey. The tragic news of Delia's untimely demise, coupled with the unfounded accusations painting Ash as her murderer, fuels Adam's fury, propelling him on a relentless quest to locate his son amidst the tumultuous realm of the Rota Kingdom.

Upon confirming the treachery of those responsible for Delia's death, Adam assumes a pivotal role in rallying support from influential figures who staunchly believe in Ash's innocence. Names like Wallace, Winoa, Diantha, Wikstrom, Lance, and other revered League members heed Adam's call, joining forces to uncover the truth and exonerate Ash from the malicious allegations.

In a daring move to expose the real culprits, Adam liaises with the International Police, divulging every intricate detail of the conspiracy. Promising a fair trial once Ash's new identity is unmasked, the International Police also enlist Ash's expertise as an undercover assassin, a strategic maneuver that shields his true identity while facilitating their mission to bring Team Rainbow to justice.

Alice, her keen perception honed by years of intrigue and mystery, notices a subtle change in the traitors' demeanor as they read a paragraph from Nate's latest exposé. With a knowing glint in her eyes, she remarks, "Nate's new story unfolds the saga of the framed Princess, doesn't it? Judging by their pale faces, they must have stumbled upon the segment where they attempted to pin the blame on the princess for the king's murder."

Ash, his voice a blend of anticipation and urgency, turns to Adam and inquires, "So, Dad, have you managed to garner more allies? Or has our true lineage been unveiled?"

Adam's chuckle carries a hint of reassurance as he responds, "No one outside the region is aware of my last name, so there's no need to fret about that. On another note, Mark has informed me that Max is currently engrossed in a heartfelt conversation with his father. It seems Norman's resolve is wavering as he grapples with the dilemma of choosing between May and Max."

Alice, her curiosity piqued, queries, "And what do you plan to do regarding Norman? Especially considering his allegiance to May and the others?"

"I won't forgive those who wrongfully label me a criminal. My mother, one of the most loving and supportive individuals in the world, didn't deserve her fate," Ash asserts with unwavering determination. "Her memory won't fade into oblivion; justice will prevail."

Adam nods in solemn agreement. "Our sentiments align. We've lingered here long enough. It's time to rejoin the others."

With synchronized nods, Ash and Alice turn their attention back to the ongoing gym battle. Meanwhile, the traitors return from their covert exploration of Nate's computer. Luckily for them, no incriminating evidence related to Red or Aurora was found, although they refrained from tampering with the system to avoid suspicion.

The tension in the air rises as Leaf's Eevee faces off against Nate's formidable Regigigas, its presence shocking the traitors with its legendary status.

"Regigigas, Crush Grip!" Nate commands, prompting the colossal Pokémon to unleash a devastating attack, overpowering Leaf's valiant Eevee and securing victory.

The Rotom referee announces the outcome, "Eevee is unable to battle. Regigigas is the winner, making Nate the victor of this battle."

With a resigned sigh, Leaf concedes defeat. "I suppose I've lost this round. You're undeniably strong."

Nate offers a gracious response, "You put up a good fight yourself."

Cynthia's eyes sparkle with curiosity as she directs her question to Nate, "How did you manage to obtain a Regigigas? It's such an extraordinary Pokémon."

"In the Sevestar Region, certain areas treat Legendary Pokémon almost like wild encounters. If luck is on your side, you might stumble upon one and even successfully capture it," Nate explains, his tone tinged with a hint of excitement at the prospect.

Hop's disbelief is palpable as he interjects, "Seriously? We can encounter Legendary Pokémon in the wild like that?"

"Our region is renowned for its unique opportunities," Ash elaborates, his voice carrying a note of caution. "However, encountering a Legendary Pokémon doesn't automatically guarantee mastery as a trainer. Take, for instance, a wild Meloetta. Despite their legendary status, their capture rate is as challenging as capturing a Beldum. Even if you possess Master Balls, which are rare to come by, the Legendary Pokémon's level may not be formidable. It's possible for it to lose to a wild Alolan Raticate due to type advantages, such as Raticate's Dark moves countering Meloetta's Psychic typing. Training and dedication, like Nate's rigorous efforts with Regigigas, are crucial."

Gladion nods in understanding. "So, it's akin to the concept of 'there's no such thing as a free lunch.'"

Alice, the co-president of the RPA Company, chimes in with a proposition. "Since your objective of challenging the Normal Type Gym has been fulfilled today, we'll extend the privilege of using our services at the department store without requiring stickers. However, this leniency applies only for today; our standard rules will resume afterward."

As the others depart, Nate approaches Ash and Alice with a knowing look. "They saw it, didn't they?" he asks, referring to the information on his computer.

"Yeah, they did. You didn't leave anything incriminating on your computer, right?" Ash inquires with a hint of concern.

"Of course not. I ensured that only mundane content remained on the computer. Any sensitive data is stored on this USB," Nate replies, holding up a small drive. "The computer only displays my unfinished story."

"That's a smart move," Ash commends. "On another note, you had a great battle. How about treating your Pokémon to massages from your sister?"

"That would be fantastic. But if she's not available at the moment, would you mind giving my Pokémon massages instead?" Nate asks Alice, who lets out a resigned sigh. "Perhaps. After all, I'm the one who brought her into the spotlight."

As Serena stumbles upon May and Dawn, her curiosity and concern prompt her to ask, "Where have you two been? You missed out on an incredible battle."

May offers an apologetic smile. "Sorry about that. We were searching for something in the library."

Dawn chimes in, her expression mirroring May's regret. "But unfortunately, we didn't find what we were looking for. Shall we explore somewhere else?"

Serena lets out a resigned sigh. "Sure, but I heard you both got kicked out of the hotel. What happened?"

May's and Dawn's faces darken slightly as May explains, "We accidentally dropped our room keys on the road, and we couldn't retrieve them. Luckily, we didn't have to pay for replacements, but now we can't access the hotel and had to book rooms at the Pokémon Center instead."

"Ugh, that's frustrating," Serena empathizes, feeling a pang of irritation at their misfortune. Her attention shifts momentarily as she notices Ash and Alice departing, a twinge of jealousy creeping into her thoughts at the sight of Alice's proximity to Ash.

Rosa, having just finished attempting to give a massage to a colossal Regigigas, lets out a tired chuckle. "You're lucky you're my brother, or else I might have charged you a fortune for that."

Nate smiles gratefully. "I'm thankful to have a talented stylist like you in the family."

Turning to Ash and Alice, Rosa asks, "So, what are your plans now?"

Ash responds thoughtfully, "I just had a conversation with my father, and I think I'll share what he said with my siblings. We can only meet on rare occasions to protect his identity. Especially after everything surrounding our mother's passing..."

Nate chimes in with a sympathetic tone, "That sounds tough. I hope you're coping okay with it all."

With their salon visit concluded, Ash and Alice step out onto the bustling fifth floor of the store. They observe the influx of visitors and the array of services available, noting the opportunity to acquire special Pokémon through the sticker system in place.

(Author's Notice: On the second floor of the game, players can encounter a girl interested in trading a Kangaskhan for a Rhydon. This trade offers a unique opportunity to obtain Kangaskhan, which may otherwise only be available through breeding mechanics within the game.)

In addition to the Honey Cafe, the main store located in the neighboring town of Resout Town offers exciting opportunities for trainers. For instance, participating in a special battling contest can lead to winning a prized Miltank as a reward for emerging victorious.

On the ninth floor of the store, there's a dedicated weather observation center focused on studying meteorological phenomena, particularly the fascinating Castform and its weather-based transformations. Trainers may receive a Gift Castform as part of their exploration of this area.

Moreover, the fifth-floor houses a cutting-edge lab dedicated to Pokémon creation research. A computer in this lab, when accessed with a data chip, may trigger the appearance of a Porygon. Researchers in this facility are also diligently working on developing their own Type: Null, requiring specific parts to complete the project.

Outside the store, a designated Cyclizar parking spot awaits trainers. By making a purchase, trainers can obtain a Cyclizar, adding a convenient mode of transportation to their adventures.

(Author's Note: Upon collecting all the stickers available in the game, a special event triggers where Ash appears and invites the player to his office on the seventh floor. As a token of appreciation and encouragement, Ash gifts the player a Terapagos, a rare and powerful Pokémon, enhancing the player's team for their ongoing journey.)

In their office, Ash and Alice sit down to meet with Goodshow, discussing the unexpected turn of events regarding the transfer of the PLA Company.

"I must admit, I'm taken aback by your decision to hand over the PLA Company to us for your retirement. Are you not concerned about the public perception of me as a criminal who allegedly killed my mother?" Ash questions, a mix of surprise and apprehension in his tone.

Goodshow responds calmly, "I've known you for years, Ash, and I believe in your innocence. You're not the kind of person to commit such a heinous act over a disagreement. Besides, the RPA Company is flourishing under your leadership."

"You're right," Ash acknowledges. "However, the challenge lies in the fact that half of the Champions still view me as guilty, citing supposed evidence from 12 witnesses. Thankfully, we have the backing of the International Police."

Alice interjects with a strategic query, "So, we wait until Ash's innocence is proven before announcing your retirement?"

"Yes, precisely. I'll be looking forward to that day," Goodshow confirms before taking his leave.

Ash, visibly relieved yet still burdened by the weight of his circumstances, sinks onto the sofa, muttering, "I can't believe that went smoothly... to think we'll have a chance to oversee the Leagues in the future..."

Alice echoes his sentiments, adding a note of caution, "Yes, but only if your innocence is established. For now, we continue gathering evidence and proceed with the tour as planned."

Bonnie and Lillie find themselves on the eighth floor of the store, where trainers purchase evolution stones. They come across a trainer evolving her Eevee using a Shiny Stone.

"Is that an Eeveon?" Bonnie exclaims in excitement. "That looks amazing!"

"Eeveon is known for its adaptability, always ready with a trick for any situation," Lillie explains. "Its abilities can be either Defiant or Protean, with Adaptability as its hidden ability."

"Protean sounds powerful. I know Greninja, Kecleon, and Meowscarada have it," Bonnie adds, showcasing her knowledge of Pokémon abilities.

Just then, Ash and Alice approach, catching their attention. Lillie addresses Ash as "Brother Red" and asks, "What brings you here?"

"I wanted to check on you and make sure those troublemakers haven't caused you any harm," Ash inquires with concern.

"They used to bother me, but since I became part of your family, they've backed off. They don't want to cross you, especially with your record of winning all nine Leagues," Lillie responds, expressing her gratitude for the protection.

"Let's celebrate with dinner at Helen's Kitchen. My treat," Ash suggests, eliciting cheers from Bonnie.

"Let's invite Nate and Rosa too!" Bonnie proposes, sparking agreement from Alice.

With plans set for a celebratory dinner, they make their way to Helen's Kitchen, looking forward to a delightful evening together.

And I'll end the chapter right here, as you can see, Adam is really Ash's father, and for the sake of his identity and other things, their meeting has to be private. In each of the gym challenges, Ash and Alice will be planning to do something to the traitors, but whether they are still trying to go is up to them.

Ash's Eeveon: Ability: Protean. Moves: Slack Off, Tail Slap, Thrash, Earth Power, Agility, Charm