4. A New Ash Ketchum

Chapter 7

The wedding of Ash and Alice is a monumental event, one that captivates people across the world. Though only invited guests are permitted to attend the ceremony in Rota, the news spreads like wildfire. Those without invitations desperately wish to be part of the celebration, but the queen orders the gates to be closed, keeping the eager crowds outside the kingdom, much to their disappointment.

Alice stands radiant in a flowing white wedding gown, while Ash looks sharp in a classic black suit. As they take their places on the stage, the air buzzes with anticipation. The moment arrives for them to share their stories.

"The day I first met Alice, we were just seven years old," Ash begins, his voice steady. "We were at the same Summer Camp, and during one of the activities, I found her injured. From that day on, we became best friends, always playing and exploring together."

Alice's voice is soft but filled with emotion as she continues, "My feelings for Ash grew stronger when he saved me from three sex traffickers who tried to abduct me and hurt my family. Without Ash, I wouldn't be here today, standing beside him as his wife."

The crowd is deeply moved by their words, touched by the courage and strength that have defined their relationship. Ash smiles warmly as he adds, "We crossed paths again in Kalos. She was always there, cheering me on, especially after my loss in the last Gym battle. She pulled me out of my depression when I needed it most."

Alice nods, her eyes shining with affection. "Without Ash, I wouldn't have found my dream of competing in Showcases and Contests. When I faced my first loss, he was the one who lifted me back up."

After they exchange vows and share their first kiss as husband and wife, the dance ball begins. Guests chat and dance, filling the room with laughter and joy. Ash and Alice mingle with their friends, who gather around to congratulate them.

"You did it, Alice! I knew you would," Lisia says, hugging her best friend tightly.

Alice smiles brightly. "Thanks, Lisia."

Eve grins mischievously and teases, "To think you got your wedding before any of us! But then again, we all knew how loyal you are to Ash, and how you've dreamed about this day for so long."

Alice's cheeks flush, and she playfully nudges Eve. "That's so embarrassing... Don't bring that up!"

Ash, ever the social butterfly at his own wedding, finds himself surrounded by his friends. Gary grins and claps him on the back. "Well done, Ashy Boy. You're one lucky guy to have Alice as your wife."

Ash smiles, glancing over at Alice. "Yeah, she's the best I could ever ask for."

Shade, leaning casually against a nearby pillar, smirks. "Still can't believe the day finally came when you, of all people, got married. You've always been so dense."

Ash narrows his eyes playfully. "Are you trying to insult me, Shade?"

"Relax, bro," Argo interjects with a chuckle. "We wouldn't want the star of the wedding getting angry, right?"

Giacomo nods with a grin. "Of course not. But I did think you'd invite more people to this event."

Alice approaches the group, catching the last part of the conversation. "If we invited too many people, they might uncover the truth about Team Alpha. Remember, the governments of the nine regions are out to get us."

Dawn crosses her arms, her brow furrowed in thought. "That's definitely a problem. But I can't help but wonder how they plan to deal with us, especially when six of the Champions are part of Team Alpha."

"Yeah, imagine the chaos," Luke adds, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Ash glances around the room, suddenly realizing someone is missing. "By the way, where's Mom?"