Ash x Serena Rise of the forgotten hero

A new opportunity

One Year Later: Ash's Journey in Alola

It had been a year since Ash and Pikachu touched down in the vibrant Alola region. Over the months, Ash had wandered the stunning islands, exploring every corner alone, slowly becoming more distant from the people around him. The wounds from his past were still fresh, leaving him guarded and a bit cold, a stark contrast to the cheerful leader he once was. Yet, through it all, his bond with his Pokémon remained unwavering.

He met a few locals along the way but kept them at arm's length, wary of forming new friendships. The one exception was Professor Kukui, who became a source of support and encouragement, always ready with a smile and a helping hand.

Ash had worked hard, training diligently with his Pokémon and catching several new friends along the way. His team was diverse and powerful: a lazy Rowlet that had evolved into a fierce Decidueye, a spirited Litten that transformed into a mighty Incineroar, a playful Rockruff that had evolved into a striking Dusk Form Lycanroc, a mythical Meltan that recently evolved into a robust Melmetal, and a Riolu he had hatched from an egg given to him by Nurse Joy. That Riolu had grown into a formidable Lucario, wielding the sheer force of its aura.

Ash also participated in the Grand Trials across the four islands. Though he faced tough battles and challenges, he emerged victorious, earning an impressive collection of Z-Crystals: Normal, Electric, Grass, Rock, Lycanium Z, Fire, and Steel.

And now, we find Ash on Melemele Island.

The sun peeked through the window, bathing the room in warm light as Ash and Pikachu stirred awake. "Good morning, buddy!" Ash said, scratching Pikachu's cheeks affectionately.

"Pika!" his partner replied, beaming with energy.

"How about we grab something to eat?" Ash suggested, and Pikachu bounced in agreement, "Pika-pika!"

They headed to the dining area of the Pokémon Center where they were staying. Ash settled at a table with Pikachu beside him, eagerly digging into breakfast. However, as he chewed, his mind drifted into deeper thoughts.

It had been ten months since that harrowing day at Team Rocket's headquarters, and he could still feel the weight of the memories bearing down on him. People in Alola shot him sympathetic looks that stung like thorns, but he tried not to let it bother him anymore. "That was the past," he thought. "As long as I have my Pokémon, I'll be okay."

Just then, a vibrant announcement broke through his thoughts, capturing his attention. The cafeteria screen lit up, displaying the familiar face of Professor Kukui.

"People of Alola!" Kukui's voice boomed, drawing the eyes of everyone in the room. "I am thrilled to announce the first-ever Alola League!"

Ash's ears perked up at the word "League," his focus sharpening on the professor's every word.

"Anyone can participate! Just sign up, and get ready! The league starts in one week, so train hard and prepare for an exciting journey!"

Ash's heart raced. "No way! A Pokémon League in Alola?" He felt a surge of determination. "This time, I'll win, no matter what! I believe in my Pokémon; we've worked hard together!" The memories of his family cheering for him brought warmth to his heart, but a twinge of sadness followed. "I wish my other friends still remembered me," he thought, shaking his head. "No! I need to let go of the past. I can't let these feelings hold me back from achieving my dream of becoming a Pokémon Master!"

After the announcement wrapped up, he approached Nurse Joy at the desk.

"Hey, Nurse Joy!" Ash greeted her with a hopeful smile.

"Hi, Ash! What can I help you with today?" she replied brightly.

"I was wondering if you could help me register for the Alola League," he said eagerly.

"Of course! Just fill out this form, and you'll be all set!" Nurse Joy handed him a clipboard, her smile infectious.

"Thanks so much!" Ash beamed, quickly completing the registration.

One Week Later

Ash stood at the entrance to the Alola League, excitement coursing through his veins. "Here it is! The Alola League!" he thought, his heart pounding. "After a week of hard training, we're ready to tackle the entrance battle! I heard it's a Battle Royal format, where multiple trainers face off at once. It's going to be wild! We'll need to stay sharp and conserve our energy. No brute forcing through this one!"

The clock read 1 PM as Ash and Pikachu made their way to the transport boat that would ferry them to the league's main arena, built in the heart of the four islands.

The 30-minute trip felt like an eternity, but as soon as they arrived, Ash rushed to the registration booth to validate his entry. With just 30 minutes left to relax, he took a deep breath, soaking in the atmosphere charged with anticipation.

"Competitors, please head out to the battlefield with your Pokémon ready!" a booming voice announced over the speakers.

"Alright, Pikachu, are you ready?" Ash asked, determination sparking in his eyes.

"Pika-Pikachu!" his partner cheered, electric excitement radiating from him.

As Ash stepped onto the arena, the announcer detailed the rules, and adrenaline surged through him. "This will be a Battle Royal among 151 trainers! The battle concludes when only 16 trainers remain. Trainers, grab your Poké Balls and prepare to unleash your Pokémon in 3, 2, 1—LET'S GO!"

"Let's do this, Pikachu!" Ash said calmly, adrenaline coursing through his veins.

For the next thrilling 30 minutes, Ash fought fiercely, using strategy and quick thinking to navigate through the chaos. Finally, as the dust settled, he found himself among the top 16 trainers.

"That's all for today!" the announcer exclaimed. "Trainers who made it to the top 16, please proceed to the lobby to check your brackets for the next battle!"

As Ash walked toward the lobby, he spotted the matchup: he was up against someone named Faba. The next battle was scheduled for two days from now, giving everyone a chance to rest and strategize.

Ash's POV

"It's great that we can recharge before the one-on-one battles," Ash thought, feeling relieved. "Pikachu handled himself so well; he dodged a flurry of attacks and struck back perfectly! I couldn't be prouder!"

Meanwhile, in the Kalos region, at Lumiose High School, a special announcement echoed through the intercom system, capturing the attention of students scattered throughout the cafeteria.

"Dear students," Principal Sycamore's voice resonated, "for those interested in a short field trip to another region, please come see me in my office!"

A group of students exchanged glances, excitement lighting up their faces.

"Should we go?" one asked eagerly.

"Of course! Let's go sign up!" another replied, enthusiasm bubbling in their voices.