13.Ash's Rikoto Story

Chapter 89 Champion's Ship Adventures

Ash and Alice make their way back to Sevestar Island with Elena, the fresh sea breeze carrying a sense of calm after their hard day of work. As they arrive on the island, however, they are greeted by an unexpected sight. Standing with Delia and Adam are five familiar faces, all of them Champions of their respective regions: Lance, Wallace, Cynthia, Alder, and Diantha.

Ash's eyes widen in shock. "No way..."

The Champions all turn at once, smiling warmly when they spot him. "Ash, it's been a while," Lance greets, stepping forward with his usual confidence. The others follow suit, offering their greetings in turn. Wallace gives a graceful nod, while Diantha and Alder wave.

"Indeed, it has," Cynthia adds with a gentle smile. "How have you been?"

Alice, standing beside Ash, is equally stunned.

"Wow... I didn't expect to see all of you here." Ash, still processing their presence, asks, "What are you all doing here?"

Cynthia steps forward, her smile never wavering. "Delia invited us. We're taking a little vacation and thought it would be nice to explore the Rikoto Region. It's been some time since we had a chance to see what this region has to offer."

Ash exchanges a surprised glance with Alice. "A vacation, huh?"

Delia chuckles softly from the side. "I thought it would be a good opportunity for everyone to relax. It's not every day you get all the Champions in one place."

As the group exchanges pleasantries, Diantha's gaze shifts to Alice, a spark of recognition in her eyes. "Wait a moment," she says, stepping forward with curiosity. "Are you Valerie's daughter?"

Alice smiles politely and nods. "Yes, I am. I'm also the Gym Leader of Subhail City."

Diantha's face lights up with admiration. "I thought so! Valerie has spoken of you before. You've grown into quite the remarkable young woman."

Before Alice can respond, Ash adds with a grin, "She's also my girlfriend."

The statement earns a chorus of congratulations from the Champions, each offering their own warm words. Wallace gives a playful wink, while Alder lets out a hearty laugh. "Well, well, Ash, I see you've been doing well for yourself," Alder says with a grin.

Lance crosses his arms with a nod. "You two make quite the team."

Alice blushes slightly at the attention but smiles nonetheless. Ash, too, seems a little bashful under the sudden wave of praise, but he can't help feeling proud.

Delia steps forward with a warm smile. "Ash, Alice, could you help guide the Champions on a little journey around Rikoto? We've arranged for a ship to take us on a tour."

Ash nods, eager to help. "Sure, Mom. Sounds fun."

Alice beams, looking forward to the trip as well. "We'd love to."

As the group heads toward the docks, they're greeted by a familiar face. Wade, Ash's brother, stands proudly near the ship, ready to take on his role as captain. "Welcome aboard!" he calls out, grinning as he spots Ash and Alice.

Ash waves. "Wade! You're the captain?"

Wade nods with pride. "Yep, I'll be taking us on the journey through Rikoto. Should be smooth sailing."

Beside him stands Reisa, Wallace's daughter and Wade's girlfriend, smiling at the group. Lance, recognizing her, furrows his brow in surprise. "Isn't that... Reisa, Wallace's daughter?"

Wallace chuckles, stepping forward. "Indeed she is. It looks like I'm going to be related to the Ketchum family."

Reisa blushes, her face turning red as Wade sheepishly scratches the back of his head, looking equally flustered. "Dad..." she mutters, clearly embarrassed.