12. The Sevestar Prince Darker Version

Chapter 81

After a rejuvenating round on the golf course and a smooth plane ride, the group eagerly sets their sights on Mt. Iceat, their determination fueled by a desire to make swift progress. Ash takes the lead, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he shares, "Mt. Iceat stands tall as the pinnacle of the Sevestar Region. At its summit, we'll find three distinct structures nestled amidst the snow."

Alice chimes in, her voice filled with anticipation, "One of these is the prestigious League Stadium, the epicenter of thrilling battles during the League Conference. Then there's the awe-inspiring Grand Festival stadium, where talent and flair are showcased. And finally, the Master Class Showcase building awaits, promising a stage for the most skilled trainers."

Curiosity piqued, Dawn queries, "So, does reaching the summit signify a trainer's mastery after earning all five ribbons or three Princess Keys in the Sevestar Region?"

Ash chuckles, his tone brimming with knowledge, "Not necessarily. We've got the convenient Cable Car system for those seeking a hassle-free ascent. However, for those craving encounters with Ice Type Pokémon, facing off against the formidable Totem, or embarking on a thrilling adventure, scaling the mountain is the ultimate recommendation."

Bianca's skepticism echoes in the crisp mountain air, "But with Regice and Glaceon already established, isn't everything pretty much known here?"

Alice's eyes light up with a secretive glint, "Ah, but the real treasures lie within the mountain itself. There's a labyrinthine maze waiting to be navigated, hiding three Chambers of immense significance."

"One leads to the enigmatic White Stone of Truths," she continues, her voice tinged with mystery. "The second Chamber unveils the elusive Black Stone of Ideals. And lastly, nestled within the frigid embrace of this icy domain, resides the essence of the original Dragon, now a mere shell."

Iris's incredulous outburst cuts through the frosty atmosphere, "Wait, Kyurem, Reshiram, and Zekrom are actually here, in this freezing wasteland?"

Alice nods with a mischievous grin, "Why not? They make their home here. And fear not the maze; it's nothing compared to the trials of Twist Mountain or the grandeur of Mt. Coronet from other regions. Oh, and if you've braved Mt. Lanakila or any Victory Road, you'll find the maze quite familiar."

"Fair enough," Paul acknowledges with a nod as the group ascends the towering mountain.

Meanwhile, as the Champions forge ahead, Lillie, Ash, and Alice opt for a quieter path inside the cavern, relishing the solitude. Their footsteps echo softly as they pass by the Paradox Machine housing the coveted Delibird known as Iron Bundle. It's in this serene moment that Lillie breaks the silence, her voice tinged with curiosity, "So, the Icicle Plate remains hidden within these icy depths?"

Alice nods, her expression serious, "Yes, it's still secure. But what surprised me was the identity of the attempted thief—none other than Mr. Phoenix himself. Alongside him were Emerald and a newcomer named Actinolite. Phoenix not only inflict harm on my father during his visit to the region but also unveiled their true motives regarding the Legend Plate."

(Flashback)

"Why go to such lengths for the Legend Plate? Amethyst mentioned that your goal isn't malevolent," Ash presses, his tone demanding answers.

Phoenix's eyes shutter briefly as he gathers his thoughts, then he speaks solemnly, "Having been shown the intricacies of this region by you, Ash, I believe it's time to unveil our true intentions."

"Boss?" Emerald interjects, sensing a shift in the conversation.

"We seek the Legend Plate because we need Arceus's intervention," Phoenix reveals, his voice carrying the weight of years of injustice. "We've all suffered at the hands of the PLA. Their flawed judgments have wreaked havoc on innocent lives, while letting the guilty walk free. We tried the legal routes, appealing to the G-men and International Police, only to face betrayal and indifference. Some of our own were even unjustly arrested."