13.Ash's Rikoto Story

Chapter 37 Orshore Town

As they arrive at Route 5, they are greeted by the sight of beautiful gardens and vibrant flowers stretching as far as the eye can see. Alice's eyes widen in amazement as she takes in the scenery. "This place is so nice," she says, her voice filled with wonder.

Ash smiles, glancing at her. "I agree," he replies, his tone warm. "But it's not as beautiful as you." Alice blushes at his words, feeling her heart flutter.

Mark, noticing the exchange, turns to Delia with a teasing grin. "Since when did Brother become such a flirt?"

Delia chuckles softly. "Well, ever since he noticed his feelings for Alice," she explains with a sigh. "But, I've only ever heard him flirt with her and no one else."

They decide to take a break by a serene pond, its surface reflecting the colorful blooms surrounding them. As they rest, two Pokémon slowly approach, their curious eyes fixed on the group. Both are female, and it's clear they're drawn by the auras radiating from Ash and Alice.

"Hello there," Ash greets them gently. "What brings you here?" To his surprise, the Pokémon respond, expressing that they were drawn to the group and wish to join their team.

"Really?" Ash says, taken aback. "Well, if that's what you want, then you're more than welcome to join us." He reaches for two Dive Balls and, with a calm and steady hand, captures both Pokémon.

Shrubsea: The Sea Lily Pokémon. Water and Grass Type. Shrubsea lives on reefs close to the shore, anchoring themselves to rocks and swaying gracefully with the sea's currents. Their habitats in the Rikoto Region have become popular tourist attractions, known for their serene beauty.

Weedsea: The Sea Weed Pokémon. Water and Grass Type. Weedsea blends into seaweed crowds, using natural camouflage to evade predators. Some seaweed colonies, upon closer inspection, reveal themselves to be made up entirely of Weedsea.

Alice, intrigued by their new companions, observes the Pokédex entries. "The Pokémon you captured are female as well, so they can evolve," she notes thoughtfully.

"Just like Vespiquen," Ash says with excitement. "This is so cool!"

After their journey, they finally reach Orshore Town. The first stop is the Pokémon Center, where they hope to find any quests or requests that might need their attention. As they enter, they notice a lone scientist standing near the quest board, looking somewhat anxious.

The scientist spots them and quickly approaches. "Hello there! I'm a scientist working on a project related to magnetism," he explains. "For my research, I need a specific Pokémon, but... I can't seem to recall its name. I'm really not good at catching Pokémon, which is why I'm seeking help."

Alice tilts her head in curiosity. "What kind of Pokémon are you looking for?"

The scientist thinks for a moment, trying to piece together his thoughts. "The Pokémon I'm searching for is gray-colored and has a segmented body structure. It's also capable of learning the move Magnet Bomb. The move has to be in its moveset."

Ash's eyes light up with recognition. "I think you're talking about Atomix!" he exclaims, already certain of what the scientist needs. "And as luck would have it, my Atomix knows Magnet Bomb."

The scientist's face brightens with excitement. "Ah, yes! That's exactly the Pokémon I'm looking for! Let's check if it indeed knows Magnet Bomb... Yes, it does! This is perfect! Would you be willing to let me have Atomix for my research?"

Ash and Alice exchange uneasy glances, their enthusiasm dampened by the thought of parting with one of Ash's Pokémon. Ash's heart sinks a little; he's grown attached to his Atomix. But before they can respond, Delia steps forward with a calm smile.