13.Ash's Rikoto Story

Chapter 28 A New Day with the Couple

The next morning, Ash is gently roused from sleep by the sunlight streaming through the window, warming his face. As he stirs, he turns to find Alice still peacefully asleep in his arms, her soft breaths creating a sense of calm. He can't help but smile, thinking, Wow, she's really cute. I'm so glad I finally confessed to her...

Just then, Pikachu's excited yelling from the floor startles Alice awake. She blinks her grey eyes open and sees Ash gazing at her. A giggle escapes her lips. "Good morning, Ash."

"Good morning to you too, Alice," Ash replies with a grin. "I still can't believe we're officially boyfriend and girlfriend now. It feels like a dream come true."

Alice smiles warmly, snuggling closer for a moment. "Yeah... We met when we were little, and now look at us." But then, reluctantly, she breaks the embrace and sits up, stretching. Ash frowns slightly, wishing they could stay like that a little longer.

"But we have to keep moving if you want to make it to the Pokémon League," Alice reminds him gently. "We can't stay in bed all day."

"Yeah, you're right," Ash agrees, though a bit reluctantly, as they get ready and head down to the lobby. There, they find Delia, Elena, Alex, and Electra waiting for them.

"Did you two sleep well?" Delia asks, her eyes twinkling as Ash and Alice grab trays of breakfast from the buffet.

"We did, Mom. Thanks for asking," Ash says as he starts to chew on a piece of bread. "As much as I wanted to stay in bed with Alice, we have to keep going on our journey."

Delia gives him a stern look. "Ash, don't talk with your mouth full. That's bad manners."

Ash shivers slightly at her tone and quickly nods, swallowing before speaking again. "Sorry, Mom."

Alice chuckles softly before turning to the others. "So, what about you guys? What are your plans?"

"Well," Elena begins, "I need to help Electra with some things here in Rustbolt City, so I won't be able to travel with you for now."

Ash looks surprised. "Really, Sis? We just reunited, and now we're separating again?"

Elena gives him a sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry, Ash. But that's why Alex will be traveling with you. He'll help you along the way, so you won't be alone."

She leans against Alex, who wraps an arm around her shoulders. "Right, Alex?"

"Of course, my princess," Alex replies, gently rubbing her back. Then he turns to Ash, his expression serious yet kind. "You can trust me, Ash. I promise I won't be a burden."

Ash and Alice nod in agreement. After finishing their breakfast, they bid farewell to Elena and Electra. With their goodbyes said, the group of four—Ash, Alice, Alex, and Pikachu—set off toward Route 4, ready to continue their journey.

As the group arrives at Route 4, Alex turns to Ash with a curious expression. "Say, Ash, I've heard that you have all three starters. If it's possible, could you show them to me?"

"Why not?" Ash replies with a grin. He then releases his three starter Pokémon from their Poké Balls. Alex watches with awe as the Pokémon appear, each one full of energy.

"I see," Alex says, examining them closely. "They're all close to evolving. How about I help you train them so they can evolve into their next stages?"

"That would be great!" Ash exclaims, excitement building. "I wonder what they'll evolve into..."

Delia, who is watching with a protective eye, steps forward. "Just make sure you don't push Ash or the Pokémon too hard, Alex. I'll be keeping an eye on you all."