1. Ash's Story (Part 0: Prologue)

Chapter 16

Mt. Fortana, towering majestically, is a treasure trove of ancient fossils, sparkling minerals, and numerous cave-dwelling Pokémon that skulk in its labyrinthine caverns. At the summit, amidst the rugged terrain, lies a bustling hub of activity: a Pokémon Gym, a Pokémon Center, and a modern facility bearing the emblem of the Devon Corporation.

This renowned company, headquartered in Rustboro City of the Hoenn Region, is a pioneer in Pokémon-related innovations. Among their remarkable achievements is the development of specialized Poké Balls unique to Hoenn. Moreover, Devon Corporation is acclaimed for their groundbreaking technique to resurrect Pokémon from fossils—a process shrouded in mystery, with its origins possibly independent of the research conducted in the laboratories of Cinnabar Island and the Sinnoh region.

Thanks to a collaboration with the RPA Company, Devon Corporation has expanded its reach, establishing a branch right here in the Sevestar Region, atop Mt. Fortana.

Steven Stone, the prodigious son of Devon's CEO, holds dual roles in this mountainous retreat. As the Gym Leader, he commands formidable Rock-type Pokémon with a strategic finesse that challenges even the most seasoned trainers. Beyond the local battles of the gym, Steven is also a celebrated Champion in the Hoenn Region, specializing in Steel-type Pokémon. His partner in battle, a Shiny Metagross with the dazzling ability to Mega Evolve, underscores his strength and strategic depth, making him a formidable opponent in any Pokémon battle.

Steven Stone shares his life with his wife, Roxanne, who herself is the esteemed Gym Leader of Rustboro City in the Hoenn Region. Together, they have a son named Luke, a chip off the old block with a burgeoning passion for collecting various stones, much like his father.

On a crisp, clear day, Luke extends an invitation to Ash and Lillie to explore the depths of Mt. Fortana's mines. Excited about a special discovery he's recently made, Luke is eager to share this secret with his friends.

As the trio makes their way into the cool, dimly lit tunnels of the mine, Luke chats animatedly about his find.

"Hey, Ash, Lillie, wait till you see what I've found," Luke says, his voice echoing slightly in the expansive cavern. "It's not just any rock—it's something incredible!"

Ash, always up for adventure, responds with a grin, "I can't wait to see it, Luke! You always find the coolest stuff."

Lillie, equally curious, adds, "Your enthusiasm is contagious, Luke. What makes this place so special?"

"Just you wait," Luke teases, leading them deeper into the mine. "It's something that could only exist here, in Mt. Fortana!"

Their footsteps resonate against the stone floor, and the distant drips of water from stalactites add to the mysterious ambiance of the mines. As they delve further, the walls shimmer with mineral deposits, casting ethereal reflections that captivate the young explorers.

Finally, Luke stops and points to a secluded alcove. "Here it is," he says with a flourish. "This is the spot."

Before them lies an array of spectacularly colored gemstones, naturally arranged in a dazzling mosaic that seems almost intentional.

"Wow, Luke, this is amazing!" Ash exclaims, his eyes wide with wonder.

Lillie kneels down for a closer look, her scientific curiosity piqued. "These formations must have taken thousands of years. The conditions here are perfect for such beautiful mineral growth."

Luke beams, proud to share his discovery. "I knew you guys would appreciate this. I come here whenever I need to think or just escape for a while. It's like my own little secret base."