Chapter 7
In the first few hours, Ash and Alice decide to learn how to use the aura weapons. These unique weapons are crafted from pure aura energy, each representing one of the 18 different Pokémon types. Although the weapons aren't solid, they enable their users to wield Pokémon moves with precision and power.
Ash holds out his hand, feeling the familiar warmth of his aura energy. He focuses, and a shimmering chainsaw forms in his grip, buzzing with electric energy. "This is amazing," he says, marveling at the weapon. "It's like holding a part of a Pokémon's power right in my hand."
Alice watches with wide eyes, then mimics Ash's actions. She conjures a fiery cannon, its flames roaring and crackling as it materializes. "I can feel the heat," she murmurs, fascinated. "It's like I'm channeling a Fire-type Pokémon."
They spend the next few hours practicing, testing the limits of their new abilities. Ash tries out different weapons, each one resonating with a different type of aura. He swings a Grass-type whip, feeling the connection to nature, and then switches to a Water-type trident, sensing the fluidity and power of water.
Alice experiments as well, her movements graceful and precise. She creates a Ghost-type pair of knives, which flicker in and out of visibility, and then a Fairy-type wand, which glows with an ethereal light. "These weapons are incredible," she says, her eyes shining with excitement. "We can use any Pokémon move we want!"
As they train, Ash and Alice begin to understand the true potential of the aura weapons. They realize that with these tools, they can protect Sevestar Island and shape it into a region where both humans and Pokémon can thrive. Their bond strengthens, and they become more in tune with their aura energy, ready to face any challenge that comes their way.
They spend a full hour engaged in training with their aura weapons, dedicating much of their time to sparring with one another. Ash is careful not to harm Alice during their practice, a consideration that Alice greatly appreciates.
"Wow... this kind of training is really enjoyable," Alice comments with enthusiasm.
"I know, right? You're adapting to each weapon so quickly," Ash remarks. However, their training session is interrupted by the grumbling of their empty stomachs. Both blush with embarrassment, and Ash suggests, "I guess all this training has worked up our appetites. How about we have lunch now? I can cook something for you."
Alice looks at Ash inquisitively. "You can cook too?"
Ash admits, "I can't, but there are some recipes in the diary. Though I'm not entirely sure if I can fully replicate them."
"You know, I'm curious about your cooking as well. It can't be that bad, can it?" Alice reassures him.
"Maybe. Since you're here, how about you explore the castle while I prepare the meal?" Ash suggests.
Alice nods, her curiosity piqued. "Alright, I'll take a look around."
Alice decides to head to the library, hoping to find books that might help them come up with ideas for the region. As she wanders through the ancient halls of the castle, she marvels at its grandeur. The stone walls are adorned with tapestries depicting legendary Pokémon, and the corridors are lined with statues of ancient heroes. She discovers a grand library filled with books on Pokémon lore, maps of the region, and tomes on aura techniques.
Meanwhile, Ash is in the kitchen, fumbling through the recipe book. He gathers ingredients and starts preparing a meal. His movements are tentative at first, but he gradually gains confidence. He remembers watching his mother cook and tries to emulate her techniques. The aroma of cooking food begins to fill the air, mixing with the castle's ancient, musty scent.
"The food is ready, Alice," Ash announces, guiding her back to the dining table. Alice gasps in amazement when she sees the spread before her: a steak that would rival those served in 5-star restaurants, creamy pasta with a delectable sauce, a Caesar salad, and corn chowder soup. For dessert, there's a heart-shaped cake adorned with strawberries at its sides. They decide to save the cake in the fridge for later and focus on enjoying the piping-hot dishes first.
"Wow, are we having all of this for lunch?" Alice exclaims in astonishment.
"Well, only if you'd like," Ash replies. "A romantic lunch seems fitting for both of us. How about a glass of wine?"
Ash carefully pours a glass of red wine and offers it to Alice, who accepts it with a thankful smile. She questions, "Are you sure it's alright to have wine?"
"Don't worry about it. I know that in my home region, the legal drinking age is 20, but if we follow the drinking age in your region, then it should be fine for us," Ash reassures her.
Alice nods, recalling that she recently turned 18 three weeks ago, although she hasn't had wine before. She inquires, "So, Ash, have you had wine before?"
"Not really," Ash admits, taking a sip of his wine. "I've had it once or twice at special occasions, but I'm no expert."
Alice takes a cautious sip, her eyes widening at the taste. "It's... interesting," she says, smiling. "I think I like it."
With a little wine in their systems, they both start to feel a bit tipsy, leading to a lighthearted and joyful atmosphere. They laugh and joke about their training and the different aura weapons, the stress of the day melting away.
After a while, Alice's expression turns slightly somber. "Ash, there's something I should tell you," she begins.
Ash looks at her with concern. "What is it, Alice?"
She takes a deep breath and continues, "I never finished high school; I dropped out."
"Why? What happened?" Ash asks, his voice filled with concern.
Alice opens up, saying, "Back when I was in high school, my dream was to meet you and become friends. But that dream led to me being bullied... A lot of my classmates believed you were weak because you didn't win the Leagues, specifically Unova and Kalos. I admired you and tried to defend you, but it only made me an even bigger target for bullying. The situation escalated until I was forced to drop out of school."
Ash's face shows deep concern. "Didn't your school offer any distant learning classes?"
Alice shakes her head sadly. "No, my school was very traditional and didn't allow for any alternatives. To make matters worse, the teachers often blamed me for the trouble instead of the bullies getting punished."
"I'm sorry you had to go through all of that. If I had used my older Pokémon, I might have won those Leagues, and you wouldn't have faced such problems," Ash says, his expression filled with regret.
Alice reaches out and takes his hand. "Don't blame yourself. I understand your desire to challenge yourself with new Pokémon, and in the end, you did win the Alola League and the World Championships, right?"
Ash nods in agreement. "You're right about that. But now that you've dropped out of school, you won't have the chance to see how wrong those bullies were."
"I don't care about them anymore now that I'm out of school," Alice admits. "Although I am concerned about not being able to earn a degree. It might be difficult for me to find stable employment for the rest of my life..."
Ash feels a deep empathy for Alice, and he's determined to find a way to help her. "We'll figure something out, Alice. You're incredibly talented and strong. Maybe there are other ways to achieve your dreams. We can find a way together."
Alice smiles, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you, Ash. I feel a lot better knowing you're here with me."
Ash squeezes her hand reassuringly. "Always, Alice. We're in this together."
After their heartfelt conversation, they decide to change topics to lighten the mood. Ash asks, "So, did you find anything interesting in the library?"
Alice's eyes light up with excitement. "Actually, I did. I found some old drafts made by your father. They're ideas for cities and towns."
Curiosity piqued, Ash says, "Let's go take a look."
They head to the library, where Alice shows Ash the dusty old manuscripts. Together, they sit down and start reading through the drafts. They are surprised to learn that Ash's father had a grand vision for the region.
"Look at this," Alice says, pointing to a detailed sketch. "Your father wanted to create a region with 18 gyms, one for each Pokémon type."
Ash's eyes widen in amazement. "Eighteen gyms? That's incredible. And it looks like each gym is meant to be special in some way."
Alice nods, flipping through the pages. "Each gym leader is supposed to embody the essence of their type, and the gyms themselves are designed to challenge trainers in unique ways. Your father's ideas are really innovative."
Ash smiles, feeling a mix of pride and inspiration. "I had no idea he had such big plans. This could be the perfect foundation for our own ideas."
They spend the next few hours pouring over the drafts, discussing how they can incorporate Ash's father's vision into their plans for Sevestar Island. The excitement and determination in their eyes grow with each new idea.
"This is amazing," Ash says, looking at Alice. "With these ideas, we can create a region that's not just unique but also a place where trainers from all over the world will want to come and challenge themselves."
Alice nods enthusiastically. "Absolutely. And we can make sure it's a place where both humans and Pokémon can thrive together."
After thoroughly examining the drafts and brainstorming ideas, Ash and Alice decide it's time to seek Arceus's guidance.
"We should show Arceus what we've found and discuss the Pokémon in our region," Alice suggests.
"Good idea," Ash agrees. "Let's go find Arceus."
They make their way to the sacred hall where Arceus resides. The divine Pokémon appears before them, radiating a powerful aura.
"Arceus, we found some old drafts by my father," Ash begins, showing the manuscripts. "He had plans for a region with 18 gyms, each representing a different Pokémon type."
Arceus examines the drafts and nods. "These are indeed intriguing ideas. What do you propose?"
Ash takes a deep breath, feeling a surge of excitement. "We were thinking about including all Pokémon in the region, even Legendary and Mythical ones."
Arceus raises an eyebrow, a hint of suspicion in its eyes. "Including Legendary and Mythical Pokémon might attract greedy individuals seeking to capture them. How do you plan to handle that?"
Ash nods, understanding the concern. "I was thinking about levels. For example, a Level 5 Meloetta can still be defeated by a Level 10 Rattata with Dark moves. We could ensure that the Legendary Pokémon have varied levels to make them accessible yet challenging."
Alice adds, "We should also consider the capture rates. Legendary and Mythical Pokémon have a 0.8% catch rate when at full health. Trainers would need to strategize and weaken them first, making the challenge more balanced."
Arceus contemplates their words, its gaze intense. "Your ideas have merit, but precautions must be taken to ensure the balance of the region and the safety of all Pokémon."
"We can set guidelines for trainers," Ash suggests. "Maybe limit the number of Legendary Pokémon one trainer can capture or require special badges to attempt a capture."
Alice nods in agreement. "We could also create sanctuary zones where Legendary Pokémon can live peacefully without being disturbed."
Arceus's expression softens. "Very well. Your commitment to creating a balanced and respectful environment for all Pokémon is commendable. I will support your vision, but remember, the well-being of the Pokémon must always come first."
Ash and Alice bow gratefully. "Thank you, Arceus. We promise to protect and cherish all Pokémon in our region."
With Arceus's blessing, they return to their planning, their hearts filled with hope and determination. They know the journey ahead will be challenging, but with their combined efforts and the wisdom of the Legendary Pokémon, Sevestar Island is destined to become a haven for both trainers and Pokémon alike.
Here is a new chapter! In this installment, Ash and Alice delve deeper into their training with aura weapons and discover exciting plans left by Ash's father. They also have a heartfelt conversation about Alice's past and consult Arceus about their grand vision for Sevestar Island. I hope you like this chapter!