1. Ash's Story (Part 7: Kalos)

Chapter 22: Golden Footing

Ambrette Town rises from the coast like it has been carved out of pale stone, sea wind, and old bones.

After Route 8, the road finally settles into streets lined with fossil signs, research notices, and shops selling tools for travelers who look ready to hike into rough ground. The air still smells like salt, but dust clings to the boots of almost everyone passing us. Some people carry wrapped cases carefully against their chests. Others drag heavy bags that thump against the pavement every few steps.

Serena looks around with bright eyes. "So this is Ambrette."

"It feels like a town that keeps digging into yesterday," I say.

Clemont adjusts his glasses while watching a researcher hurry past with a long crate. "Ambrette is famous for fossils, the aquarium, and coastal research. That combination probably brings tourists and excavation teams at the same time."

Bonnie points toward a sign shaped like a fossil shell. "Does that mean we can see ancient Pokémon?"

David nods while checking the road ahead. "Eventually, but first I think we should put our bags down."

Elline looks toward a hotel near the main street, where two guests are trying to carry dusty equipment through the entrance without dropping anything. "That may be harder than it sounds."

A man at the hotel door slips when his boot hits a line of sand across the tile. He catches the wall before falling, but the crate in his arms tilts dangerously. I move before thinking, catching the lower edge while Pikachu braces against my shoulder.

"Careful," I say. "That crate almost went over."

The man sighs in relief. "Thank you. These samples are heavier than they look."

A woman wearing a Hotel Ambrette badge rushes over with worry across her face. "I am so sorry. The lobby was clear ten minutes ago."

Serena kneels to pick up a dropped brush and a rolled map. "The sand is everywhere."

The woman gives a tired laugh. "Welcome to Hotel Ambrette. Fossil researchers, aquarium tourists, beach travelers, and excavation workers all come through here. They bring discoveries, but they also bring half the coast inside with them."

I look past her into the lobby. Guests are stepping around tool bags, wrapped digging poles, and boxes stacked beside the wall. A child tries to pull a suitcase over a sandy patch, and the wheels lock. An older traveler grips the railing near the stairs because his boots keep sliding.

The woman notices where I am looking and bows quickly. "My name is Marielle. I manage the front desk today. We are trying to keep guest spaces safe, but every new group brings more luggage, more tools, and more sand."

Serena stands with the map in her hands. "Can we help?"

Marielle blinks. "You would help us?"

"We are already here," I say. "And people could get hurt if the floor stays like that."

Clemont immediately sets down his bag. "We can organize the heavy equipment away from the walking path."

David looks at the stacked crates. "And separate fragile fossil cases from normal luggage. Some of those boxes are being placed under too much weight."

Elline smiles and reaches for Mareep's Poké Ball. "Mareep can help guide guests around unsafe spots without shocking anyone."

Bonnie lifts Dedenne. "Dedenne and I can warn people too."

Clemont gives her a careful look. "From a safe place."

Bonnie nods very seriously. "From a safe place where everyone can see Dedenne being helpful."