Chapter 59

"I'm glad that you've been feeling better," Ash says to Lillie, his voice filled with relief. "Once again, I'm sorry for making you suffer like that..." His brows knit together in concern.

Lillie offers a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about it," she says softly. "Thanks to the aura powers, my healing process is much faster than that of a normal human." Her eyes gleam with a hint of gratitude towards her unique abilities.

Gladion nods in agreement. "Indeed," he adds, his tone serious. "But we can't let this happen again. It's a one-time thing."

As the group of Champions continues their journey toward the next gym, Lillie finds herself temporarily taking Alice's place. Despite Alice's protests, arguing that both Ash and Lillie need rest as well, Lillie insists on shouldering the responsibility, determined to support her friends in any way she can.

As they tread along Route 8, their gazes alight upon a forest that seems unusually drained of life. Diantha, ever observant, inquires, "What happened to that forest over there?"

Ash, with a knowing expression, replies, "Don't worry about it. That's the habitat of Xerneas and Yveltal. We've established a protective barrier infused with Dark and Fairy Aura, ensuring no one can enter without capturing a Zygarde from the Underground Maze."

"Ah, the mysterious maze you mentioned in the desert," Leon recalls with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

"As we prepare to venture to Quest Town, allow me to extend a warm welcome to the esteemed RPA Academy," Ash announces proudly. "It's renowned as the top educational institution in the Sevestar Region, sought after by many." His eyes gleam with pride as he speaks. "Ms. Geeta can attest to its excellence; I myself was a student at Uva Academy, and it's the foundation of our school's exceptional standards."

Lillie adds with a nod, "Our Princess Aurora endured significant bullying in her past, which is why all our teachers are trained to address and prevent such issues effectively."

Entering the academy, they are greeted by the impressive facilities. Rosa approaches to welcome them, with Trip engaging in a battle nearby. Meanwhile, Ash and Lillie make their way to the principal's office, ensuring the security of the Dread Plate to prevent any potential theft. The tension of safeguarding such a valuable artifact is palpable in the air as they remain vigilant.

(Flashback)

As they enter the school, the tranquility is shattered by screams of horror. Without hesitation, they rush outside, only to witness a scene of chaos as Team Rainbow launches a vicious attack on the entire school. Leading the assault are Agate, Amythest, and Ambrose, their intentions clear in the chaos they sow.

"Attacking innocent students for your own goals is despicable!" Ash's voice cuts through the turmoil as he confronts Agate head-on, the fury evident in his eyes. The clash of Pokémon and trainers echoes in the air as the battle ensues, with the rest of the group joining the fray against the Rainbow Grunts.

With the combined efforts of the teaching staff and brave students rallying together, the tide begins to turn against the invaders. However, amidst the chaos and mayhem, a surprising turn of events unfolds as Amythest suddenly rebels against Ambrose and Agate. His voice carries a tone of finality as he declares, "I'm done. I'm quitting."

The tension thickens as Amythest's defiance sends shockwaves through Team Rainbow. Ambrose's disbelief is palpable as he struggles to comprehend Amythest's actions. "What in the world do you think you're doing?" he gasps, his voice laced with incredulity.

"I refuse to be part of attacking innocent people just to obtain the Legend Plate," Amythest declares firmly, her resolve unwavering despite the perilous situation.

Agate's eyes narrow as he regards Amythest with a mixture of disappointment and contempt. "So, you're willing to brand yourself as a traitor," he states coldly, the weight of his words heavy in the air. "And this is how we deal with traitors."

A chilling silence descends as a Cofagrigus materializes, its eerie presence sending shivers down everyone's spine. Before Amythest can react, the ancient Pokémon's coffin-like body opens, swallowing her whole in a horrifying display. Gasps of horror escape the onlookers as they witness the ruthless punishment meted out by Agate and his enforcer.

A new figure steps forward, his expression stoic and unforgiving. "And that's how we handle traitors," he states with chilling finality, his presence commanding attention.

Agate nods approvingly, acknowledging the newcomer's actions. "Well done, Topaz," he praises, the air heavy with a sense of dread and betrayal lingering long after the shocking turn of events.

Golly's outrage echoes through the tense atmosphere as he confronts the shocking display of cruelty. "Did you actually turn her into a mummy?" he exclaims, his voice filled with disbelief and horror.

Topaz remains composed, his demeanor unwavering despite the chaos. "Fear not," he reassures, his tone cold and calculated. "She won't meet her end just yet. And this isn't the coveted Legend Plate we've been seeking."

With a swift motion, Topaz tosses the Dread Plate to Ash, the metallic glint of the artifact catching the light. "It was hidden in the principal's office desk," Topaz admits, a hint of amusement tinging his words. "You should really be more cautious."

As quickly as they had appeared, Team Rainbow vanishes into the shadows, leaving behind a stunned and bewildered group. The abrupt departure leaves an unsettling silence in its wake, the implications of their encounter weighing heavily on everyone's minds.

(Flashback Ends)

Lillie's somber reflection on Amythest's fate highlights the gravity of their recent encounter with Team Rainbow. "It's a relief that we prevented Amythest from meeting a grim fate at Topaz's hands," she remarks, her voice tinged with sadness. "Though it's heart-wrenching to see her confined to a bed for the foreseeable future."

As they return to the bustling courtyard, where the gym battle rages on, Rosa emerges victorious in a thrilling conclusion. Ash seizes the moment to address important matters. "Before you explore the area further," he begins, his tone serious, "I need to emphasize some key points. The basements of buildings B, S, T, and V are strictly off-limits without permission from a teacher or myself. They house the coveted Treasure of Ruins and a Paradox Machine for Hydreigon's Iron Jugulis."

Lillie chimes in, adding another intriguing detail. "Near the forest, there's a temple dedicated to Regidark," she explains. "It remains locked unless it's a full moon night. While it's not forbidden to enter, Regidark slumbers unless awakened by something like the other Regis."

Bonnie's curiosity sparks a question about Regidark's unique traits. "So, what makes Regidark special?" she inquires.

Lillie, drawing from her knowledge, offers an insightful explanation. "Regidark has a penchant for creating darkness to disorient both people and Pokémon when it's provoked," she explains. "Its new abilities, Darkness Surge and Darkness Terrain, make it particularly formidable. Darkness Terrain not only turns the battlefield into a Dark Type Terrain but also enhances the evasiveness of all Pokémon present, making battles against it quite challenging and frustrating."

Ash interjects with a note of caution. "That's something to keep in mind," he advises, his tone serious. The group collectively acknowledges the potential difficulties that come with facing Regidark.

(Note: As a player, obtaining the HM for Dive requires passing a test at the school. In the post-game, interacting with the dorm room bed might trigger an encounter with Darkrai or Cresselia if you possess the Lunar Feather.)

As they explore the campus, their attention is drawn to three distinct dormitories standing before them, each adorned with a different metallic hue: gold, silver, and bronze. Serena, ever observant, queries, "What's the difference between those dorms?"

Ash steps in to provide clarity. "The Gold, Silver, and Bronze Dorms are where students reside at this school," he explains. "While the physical rooms may not differ significantly, they represent different academic standings. Those who excel and maintain high grades earn a spot in the prestigious Gold Dorm, while the Bronze Dorm accommodates students who may require extra academic support."

Lillie elaborates on the dynamics of dorm assignments. "Some students choose not to switch dorms even after their academic standing changes, often due to familiarity and comfort. Additionally, the faculty members have their own separate dorms located behind these three main dormitories."

Cynthia nods in understanding, taking in the nuances of the school's housing arrangements. The distinct dormitories reflect not just academic achievement but also the varied needs and preferences of the students, contributing to the vibrant and diverse community within the school.

As they journey through the bustling campus, a swarm of enthusiastic students converges on Ash, eager for his attention and hoping to engage in play. Ash's warm smile accompanies his gentle refusal, "Sorry, guys, but as a Champion, I have responsibilities now. We'll have plenty of time to play together in the future."

The students, understanding but visibly disappointed, disperse with excited chatter about future interactions. Geeta, observing the scene, remarks with admiration, "You've certainly made quite an impression here. Your reputation precedes you, just as expected from the talented student from Uva Academy."

Ash graciously acknowledges the praise, reflecting on his past mentors. "Thank you, Ms. Geeta. The dedicated teaching staff and Director Clavell at Uva Academy played a significant role in shaping us. We're also thankful for your assistance in enrolling Alice into the school."

Geeta nods, her expression conveying a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. "It was my pleasure to help," she replies warmly, highlighting the collaborative spirit and support system within the educational community.

As they tour the cafeteria, they notice a distinct emphasis on health-conscious options, with a notable absence of junk food outlets. Furthermore, they observe some students diligently cleaning the floors.

Steven, intrigued by this approach, questions, "Why do you have students clean instead of hiring janitors?"

Ash explains, "Many schools implement this practice. We have a designated time called cleaning time, where everyone pitches in to tidy up the school. Each class is assigned a specific area to clean, and it's taken very seriously. The teachers ensure that students fulfill their cleaning duties responsibly."

Lance, nodding in agreement, remarks, "It's clear that cleanliness is prioritized here. Teaching students the importance of cleaning and maintaining a hygienic environment is crucial."

This dedication to cleanliness not only fosters a sense of responsibility and teamwork among students but also instills valuable habits that promote a healthy and organized school environment.

As they return to the castle in Otem Town, Ash, Lillie, and Gladion, who had been touring the school in the Sevestar Region, find Alice engrossed in Pokémon training. Ash, noticing her dedication, remarks, "Already planning new moves?"

Alice nods, her expression serious. "Yeah, but I feel bad for not helping with the gym inspection."

Lillie offers reassurance, "It's understandable. You have the Violet Depression, and we have to be cautious."

"But Ash has it too," Alice points out.

Ash explains, "I acquired it by absorbing your aura into mine. That's why if you're injured, I feel it too. Unfortunately, our plans for revenge will have to wait."

Alice's frown deepens as she brings up a sensitive topic. "Especially after Lillie's life was endangered because of the white pepper incident. It's something she's allergic to."

Lillie acknowledges her mistake with a somber tone, "It's true. Ash and Gladion tried to stop me, but I was driven by revenge for what they did to our new mother. I regret my actions and promise not to repeat them."

The atmosphere in the room is heavy with the weight of past mistakes and the resolve to learn from them, highlighting the complexities of their shared history and the challenges they face together.

Here is a new chapter, and as you can see, the Dark Type part is done, and we're almost 2/3 through the Sevestar Region. I hope you like this chapter.

Ash's Regidark: Ability: Darkness Surge. Moves: Self-Destruct, Ancient Power, Curse, Darkness Terrain, Foul Play, Punishment