As Ash, Lillie, and Golly cross into Battleforge Kingdom, they immediately notice the stark contrast to the gentle greenery of Viridale Kingdom, which lies far on the other side of the region. The landscape here is rugged and unyielding, a testament to the power and strength that define this land. The air is crisp and carries the scent of earth and stone, a sharp reminder that they have entered a place where only the strong thrive.
Towering, jagged mountains dominate the horizon, their peaks cutting into the sky like the blades of ancient warriors. The ground beneath their feet is rough and uneven, composed of hard-packed earth and weathered stone. Scattered across the terrain are massive boulders and ancient rock formations, some bearing deep gouges and cracks—evidence of countless battles fought long ago.
"This place feels like it's built for battle," Lillie observes, her voice tinged with awe as she takes in the formidable surroundings.
Golly nods, her gaze sweeping across the rugged landscape. "We're on the opposite side of the region now, far from the peaceful forests of Viridale. This is Battleforge Kingdom, a land shaped by Arceus' Fist Plate. Here, strength and combat are the way of life."
As they continue deeper into the kingdom, the landscape reveals its true character. In a nearby clearing, a group of Machop and Machoke train with unrelenting focus, their powerful bodies moving in perfect sync. Nearby, a Hitmonchan hones its skills on a massive tree, each punch sending echoes through the forest.
The air is filled with the sounds of battle. In the distance, a Lucario meditates on a rocky outcrop, its serene focus undisturbed by the harsh winds whipping around it. Far below, a pack of Primeape engage in fierce sparring matches, their roars reverberating through the canyon.
"The Pokémon here are incredibly disciplined," Ash notes, watching the Lucario with admiration. "It's like they're constantly preparing for their next challenge."
Golly smiles. "That's the essence of Battleforge. This kingdom is all about pushing limits. The landscape itself is a training ground, meant to test the strength of everyone who lives here."
As Ash, Lillie, and Golly explore the rugged terrain of Battleforge Kingdom, they come across an ancient statue of a fierce warrior, her bow drawn as if ready to strike. The statue stands tall among the rocky outcrops, surrounded by Pokémon that symbolize strength and determination.
"This is Princess Merida Honda," Golly begins, noticing Ash and Lillie's interest. "She's one of the most legendary figures in Battleforge Kingdom's history. Unlike other princesses, Merida was a warrior at heart, known for her love of battle and her unyielding spirit."
"When Merida was six, her father gave her a bow and arrow, sparking her passion for archery," Golly continues. "One day, while retrieving an arrow in the woods, Merida encountered a will-o'-the-wisp. Shortly after, a dark Urshifu attacked her family. Merida and her mother escaped, but her father and his men stayed behind to fight. They managed to drive the Urshifu away, but it cost her father one of his legs."
Lillie listens intently. "That must have been so difficult for her family."
"It was," Golly replies. "Years later, their family was chosen by the Multitype King to rule Battleforge Kingdom. To secure their position, Merida was to be betrothed to the son of one of her father's allies. But Merida didn't want to be forced into marriage. Her mother reminded her of a legend about a prince whose pride led to his kingdom's downfall, hoping to change her mind. But Merida was determined to follow her own path."
Ash leans in, intrigued. "So what did she do?"
"When the allied clans arrived for the Highland games, where their sons would compete for her hand, Merida twisted the rules," Golly explains. "As her clan's firstborn, she declared herself eligible to compete—and she won, shaming the other clans. After a heated argument with her mother, Merida ran away into the forest, guided by the wisps to the hut of a witch."
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6. Prince Ash and Princess Lillie
FanfictionAsh has become the devil prince of the prophecy, and he is going to lead this Team Alpha to free the United Region from the tyranny of the 18 Kingdoms. He won't be alone, with his love and the help of his friends and family, will he succeed?
