12. The Sevestar Prince Darker Version

Chapter 63

In the lavish dining hall of the Rota Kingdom, Ash and Alice are adorned in resplendent royal attire, sitting alongside Queen Ilene for a grand dinner.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Alice," Queen Ilene greets her warmly, her eyes sparkling with curiosity and approval.

Returning the gesture with a graceful bow, Alice replies, "The pleasure is all mine, Queen Ilene. Thank you for having us."

As the servants serve the first course, Queen Ilene turns her attention to Ash. "Your letter intrigued me, Ash. You mentioned a decision regarding Rota's Crown Princess?"

With a confident smile, Ash nods, his demeanor radiating certainty. "Yes, indeed. I've come to the decision to appoint Princess Alice as Rota's Crown Princess. She possesses remarkable capabilities and is more than equipped to fulfill all her royal responsibilities."

"I've heard great things about her from my brother as well; he spoke highly of her suitability for you. Congratulations," Queen Ilene acknowledges with a warm smile, her eyes reflecting a mix of pride and anticipation.

"Thank you, Queen Ilene," Ash responds gratefully, his smile widening with pride. "Alice and I have been through a lot together over the past four years. It's no surprise that I've chosen her as my princess."

Alice blushes slightly, her voice tinged with a mix of shyness and gratitude. "Your words are too kind. Without you, I would still be trapped in a life of misery."

"You two truly complement each other," Queen Ilene remarks with genuine delight. "It's unfortunate that your other siblings won't be able to join us."

Ash nods in understanding, his expression briefly shadowed by concern. "They are known as Champion Red's siblings, not as Ash Ketchum's siblings. If their true identities were revealed, it could lead to serious trouble for them and even for my father. But rest assured, Lillie and Gladion will be here to celebrate with us."

"I understand your concern," Queen Ilene nods understandingly. "Forgive me for prying, Prince Ash, but have you made any living arrangements for your stay in Kanto?"

"We were planning to stay at a hotel," Ash replies.

Queen Ilene smiles warmly, a hint of mischief in her eyes. "Why don't you both stay in one of our guest rooms tonight? I have a few that are specifically prepared for couples."

Alice looks pleasantly surprised but hesitant. "That's incredibly kind of you, Queen Ilene. But we don't want to impose any further. We've already made quite a significant request through our letter."

Queen Ilene waves off Alice's concerns with a gracious gesture. "Nonsense. It's no trouble at all. Consider it a gesture of goodwill. Besides, I'm eager to hear all about how you two got together over breakfast tomorrow. After all, the festivities are in the evening."

"Alright then," Ash agrees, his expression filled with gratitude. "But, Queen Ilene, in the letter, I mentioned our situation. We both suffer from Violet Depression, and the cure for this illness lies in the Infinity Gems. One of them, the Fighting Gem, also known as the Gem of Boosting, is said to be here in the Rota Kingdom. Would it be possible for us to obtain it?"

Queen Ilene listens attentively, her eyes reflecting sympathy. "Of course, I'm aware of your sacrifices for each other. However, there's a complication with the gem. It's surrounded by a barrier that has proven insurmountable so far."

"We'd still like to attempt it, but not today, as tomorrow is a joyous occasion," Ash acknowledges.

Understanding their priorities, Queen Ilene nods. "I understand. Let's enjoy tonight's festivities and discuss this further when the time is right."