12. The Sevestar Prince Darker Version

Chapter 41

(Flashback)

With Team Rainbow now established in their newly crafted region, Ash, accompanied by the Elite Four and Gym Leaders, maintains a vigilant watch as they meticulously inspect all locations housing the sacred Arceus Plates. Currently, deep within the labyrinthine Isolate Maze beneath the scorching Isolate Desert, the precious plate remains safeguarded. However, an unexpected turn of events unfolds as Squishy, the enigmatic Zygarde, conveys troubling news—Team Rainbow's forces have been spotted nearing the entrance to the maze.

"Team Rainbow is making their way into the maze?" Ash's voice reflects a mix of concern and determination as he questions Squishy, who solemnly nods before asking, "What should we do now?"

"We must drive them out," asserts Ash, his resolve palpable as he leads the charge towards the maze's entrance, his allies close at hand. As they breach the maze's confines, they are met with the sight of meteor grunts and Team Rainbow members, with Agate and Emerald at their helm, prepared for battle. Yet, amidst the adversaries stands an unexpected figure, catching them off guard.

"Mr. Phoenix? What brings you to this place?" Ash's surprise is evident as he locks eyes with the man before him. Phoenix's presence raises questions, prompting Ash to inquire further, "Are you here for the maze or something else?"

With a sly smile, Phoenix responds, "Oh, I simply heard rumors of a maze with a hidden treasure at its core. Couldn't resist the temptation to explore and perhaps claim that treasure for myself."

Alice, sensing something amiss, interjects, "Are you sure your intentions are as innocent as they sound? Our allies are currently engaged in a fierce battle against Team Rainbow, and here you are, appearing alongside them. It does seem rather suspicious, doesn't it?"

A chuckle escapes Phoenix's lips as he admits, "I'm afraid it's no coincidence. Playing these games is rather enjoyable, wouldn't you agree?"

Before further discussion can unfold, the sudden appearance of more Team Rainbow grunts encircles Ash and Phoenix. Phoenix's tone shifts as he reluctantly reveals, "As much as I dislike resorting to this against an old acquaintance, as a leader of Team Rainbow, I must insist on obtaining the Legend Plate."

"You, the leader of Team Rainbow?" Ash's disbelief transforms into a scowl of betrayal. "I entrusted you with knowledge of our region and invited your company to aid in its development. And now, you reveal yourself as a leader driven by greed, seeking the Legend Plate for your own selfish ends?"

Regrettably, Phoenix acknowledges, "Yes, it is regrettable. However, our aspirations necessitate Arceus's power to manipulate types, enabling us to achieve our objectives."

Aware of Ash and Alice's knowledge of the Legend Plate's whereabouts, Phoenix makes a decisive move. "I understand you won't disclose its location willingly. Therefore, grunts, initiate!"

The grunts unleash their Pokémon, prompting Ash to counter, "Bristleon! I choose you!"

As the battle unfolds, Phoenix remarks, "Another Eeveelution, I see..."

"Yes," explains Ash, his determination unwavering. "The dark brown bristles of its brush-like tail can harden, allowing it to swiftly slice through rocks. If you seek to evolve your Eevee into Bristleon, simply have it hold a Soft Stone and undergo evolution during daylight hours. Bristleon, Bulldoze!"

As Ash's Bristleon executes the powerful Bulldoze attack, the entire maze quakes under the force, prompting concern from their allies on the opposite side. Mark groans, "Is Brother trying to shake the whole maze down?"