32. Ash's Reborn Story

Chapter 152 Hoop's the Culprit Part 1

Ash is now alone at the Night Club, and he finds Zero at the desk this time.

Zero: We've got a new mission on deck, and this one carries a special request for you specifically, Ash. Apparently on a recent mission, Aya and Hardy came across a couple of old artifacts. It turns out that these orbs and their likeness tend to be... uh, "volatile" is the word they used. Adrienn put in a word saying they'd like you, in particular, to help out on a mission to get these artifacts to safety. Something something, "as the champion"... Does that sound good to you?

Ash: Orbs, huh... Sure, I'll do it.

Zero: Great ...Wasn't really sure what I'd tell Mx. Adrienn if you said "No" for sure. Anyway, they asked me to meet you at Grandview Station. Head over there as soon as you can.

After Ash goes to Grandview Station, he finds Adrienn talking to the police chief.

Adrienn: Ash! My favorite champion! I'm grateful you could make it, and you're just in time. I was just discussing the particulars with the chief here.

Chief: Allow me to summarize once more. Two of your compatriots recently unearthed a couple of unique artifacts. But not too unique- they were recognized: The Red Orb and Blue Orb.

Ash widens his eyes, he was there to witness the two orbs being destroyed, how come they are back together again?

Chief: We're aware of what happened in Hoenn with these items... And I think I speak for everyone when I say that Reborn has had enough of world-ending disasters! We've put all that behind us!

Adrienn: At least, I dearly hope so...

Chief: We want none of it! So I've taken the liberty of contacting some foreign experts, and we've arranged to have the orbs safely contained elsewhere. All that's left is to ship them there.

Adrienn: That's where you come in. We think the shipment's been compromised. Some information regarding it was leaked, and- In short, it's almost certain someone is trying to steal the orbs already. We'd like you to take the train ride abroad and make sure the orbs reach their destination safely.

Chief: With the champion on board, no one will dare try anything!

Adrienn: I know playing security isn't exactly the most glamorous, but I don't think anyone wants to risk an incident with, say, Azurine Lake drying up or something... With any luck, it'll be an uneventful trip there and back. You could even think of it as a vacation!

Chief: I hate to rush, but I believe we are short on time...

Adrienn: Right- since the original shipment was compromised, the Chief arranged to sneak it on board a passenger train early.

Chief: Our hope is that the change in operation will be inconspicuous enough to escape the notice of whomever the information was leaked. And by the time they find out- too late!

Adrienn: Your ticket and boarding are already arranged as well. The Chief will be going with you as well- he'll show you to the storage car and keep an eye on the passengers during the mission.

Chief: Yes, yes! Together, we'll keep both these orbs and our region safe! But the clock is ever-ticking- let us be off at once!

Ash nods as both he and the Chief are now on the train, and the Chief shows him where the Orbs are.

Chief: Yes, just back here. The Red and Blue Orb, firmly secured for transport! This is the only entrance to the storage cart, so all you have to do is wait right here! It might not be the most interesting, but police work is like that sometimes! All for the safety of the people, am I right? Now, since we're traveling with guests, how about you go and meet them? No need to mention what you're really here for, and I'll be keeping an eye on them for most of the ride, but as long as you're here, you may as well know who's on board! Go on, have a social moment before your shift starts true!