6. Prince Ash and Princess Lillie

Chapter 9 Flamborough Kingdom

The air grows warmer as Ash, Lillie, and Golly step into the boundaries of Flamborough Kingdom. The once gentle breeze of Harmony Kingdom is replaced by a dry heat, the kind that clings to the skin and makes each breath feel heavier. The ground beneath their feet is cracked and parched, a stark contrast to the lush surroundings they had left behind.

As they walk deeper into the kingdom, the trio notices the land around them is scarred by rivers of molten lava, glowing ominously under the midday sun. The landscape is dominated by rugged mountains and active volcanoes, their peaks spewing out smoke and ash that blend into the fiery red sky.

Golly, ever observant, points out the large stone obelisks etched with ancient runes, each one dedicated to the power of fire. "These obelisks were erected centuries ago," she explains, "as a tribute to Arceus and the Flame Plate that blessed this land with Fire-type Pokémon."

Ash nods, his eyes scanning the horizon where fire-themed buildings and monuments stand tall. The Flamborough Kingdom, renowned for its fierce Fire-type Pokémon, radiates an almost tangible heat. Flames dance in the distance, flickering like mirages over the scorched earth, and every so often, a wild Pokémon can be seen darting through the volcanic crags, its fiery mane or tail leaving trails of sparks in its wake.

Lillie, though initially nervous about the oppressive heat, can't help but be mesmerized by the raw power that seems to pulse through the very air. "It's like this place is alive with fire," she murmurs, shading her eyes against the intense sunlight.

Golly leads them towards the heart of the kingdom, where the largest volcano dominates the skyline. "This is where it all began," she says, her voice taking on a reverent tone. "The Flame Plate was said to have descended here, bringing with it the first of the Fire-type Pokémon that now rule this land."

As they approach the central city, the temperature rises even more, and the streets are lined with trainers accompanied by their blazing partners. The buildings are made of dark stone, resistant to the flames that frequently lick at their foundations. Despite the harsh conditions, the people of Flamborough seem to thrive in this environment, their spirits as unyielding as the fire they revere.

Ash pulls the brim of his hat lower to shield his eyes from the glare of the sun, his thoughts already racing ahead to what they might discover here. Flamborough Kingdom is clearly a place of power, but with power often comes danger. As much as he is drawn to the kingdom's fiery beauty, he knows that their mission here is far from a simple sightseeing tour.

As they reach a shaded alcove near the base of the grand volcano, Golly gestures for Ash and Lillie to gather around. The heat is still intense, but the shade offers some respite as Golly begins to share the history of the Flamborough Kingdom.

"Long ago, before this land became known as Flamborough, it was ruled by a prince named Gravy," Golly begins, her voice carrying a tone of reverence. "Prince Gravy was a brave and ambitious young man, known for his prowess in battle and his unyielding will. But he was also feared for his relentless pursuit of power."

Lillie listens intently, intrigued by the story. "What did he do?" she asks, her curiosity piqued.

"One day, Prince Gravy learned of a magnificent creature—Ho-oh, the legendary bird of the skies, said to possess the power of life itself. Driven by his desire to harness this power, the prince hunted down Ho-oh, chasing her across mountains and valleys until he finally captured her," Golly continues, her eyes fixed on the distant horizon.

Ash clenches his fists slightly, imagining the desperation of such a majestic Pokémon caught in a hunter's snare. "But he didn't kill her, did he?"

Golly shakes her head. "No, despite his intentions, Ho-oh pleaded for her life. She promised him a gift, something that could save him in his darkest hour. Moved by her words, the prince spared her life, and in return, Ho-oh bestowed upon him the Rainbow Feather. This sacred feather held the power to summon Ho-oh should he ever face a challenge beyond his strength."