Ash Ascendant: Chapter 38

Hi all, 

Here’s the first chapter. 

Chapter 38

Ash surveyed their new accommodation. The single-storey house sprawled along the beachfront, its expansive floor plan designed to maximise the spectacular ocean views. Floor-to-ceiling windows stretched across the entire seaward face, whilst the structure's coral stone walls and copper roof had weathered to complement the natural surroundings perfectly.

Their earlier business in town had proceeded efficiently. The Mayor had processed their residency applications and collected the annual taxes. They had secured this beachfront property for three months—expensive, but the house’s location and privacy justified the cost. 

"This is gorgeous," Winona said, stepping onto the wraparound veranda that connected the house's various wings.

“I can see why it was so expensive to rent,” Delia said. “Why couldn't we find something cheaper in town??”

"I want some privacy," Ash said. "We have a lot of secrets that must stay secret."

“Can we really afford it?” 

“I’ve secured the house for the next three months. There are plenty of ways to earn more money in the meantime.”

“What are we waiting for?” Erika asked. “Let’s check out the inside.”

The interior proved equally impressive. High ceilings and polished hardwood floors created an airy atmosphere throughout the expansive living areas. The master bedroom occupied the entire eastern wing, its panoramic windows offering unobstructed sunrise views. Two additional bedrooms flanked the western side, whilst a fully equipped kitchen and entertainment areas filled the central spaces.

Ash claimed the master bedroom with Winona, and they deposited their luggage in the walk-in wardrobe. Unlike their previous ascension, everything they needed remained stored in his Mind Palace, eliminating the logistical complications that had marked their arrival on the second floor.

By evening, they'd managed to unpack their essential belongings. Delia prepared a simple meal, and they ate out on the veranda. After dinner, he and Winona retreated to the master bedroom. 

Winona settled cross-legged on the large bed, brushing out her hair with slow, methodical strokes. 

"Now that we're here, what do you plan to do next?" Winona asked.

"I need to get comfortable with this place before I start exploring," Ash said. "This floor has its own set of challenges."

Ash took out a book and sat down next to Winona. The book gave some basic information about the third floor. He pointed out several key details that gave an overview of the third floor and explained how it worked.

The third floor served as the Tower's primary seafood production centre. The Overseers had designated this maritime level as the central hub for all aquatic food production. 

When the two worlds first collided, the integration process had been nothing short of apocalyptic for Earth's native species. Within the first chaotic years, Pokemon had systematically displaced or outright eliminated the vast majority of Earth's wildlife.

The Tower's early inhabitants recognised the existential threat immediately. Entire ecosystems collapsed as Pokemon established dominance, leaving humanity facing potential starvation. Teams of scientists, cultivators, and volunteers worked frantically to identify and protect species essential for food production before Pokemon could drive them to extinction.

Dozens of fisheries now operate throughout the island chains, each facility specialising in different species and cultivation methods that had evolved from those desperate early preservation efforts. 

The next key point focused on transportation and navigating the third floor. Ferry services linked the main islands using established shipping routes that provided some protection from the dangers found in deeper waters. 

Pirates were a constant threat to both merchant ships and passenger ferries. Team Aqua represented the most notorious among these criminal organisations—a highly disciplined group that operated more like a maritime army than simple pirates. They commanded advanced ships, kept Pokemon teams trained specifically for naval battles, and set up hidden bases across remote island chains.

Using Flying Pokemon to get around offered little advantage against experienced pirates, who deployed their own aerial forces to intercept their targets. Long-distance flights were physically exhausting for both the rider and the mount. Most people preferred ships despite their vulnerabilities, relying on convoy protection and experienced crews for safer passage.

Beyond human threats, Pokemon and natural hazards created constant dangers. The ocean's fluid nature meant Pokemon migrated unpredictably across vast distances, making their strength and location impossible to anticipate. Unlike stable land territories, no one could predict what lurked beneath the waves at any given time.

Natural oceanic hazards posed equally serious risks. Rough waters, whirlpools, and massive waves could capsize or destroy ships without warning. Storm systems developed rapidly, transforming calm seas into deadly conditions. The combination of pirate activity, unpredictable Pokemon encounters, and natural disasters made oceanic travel require careful planning and considerable luck.

The third key point highlighted fighting skills that set the third floor apart from other levels. Cultivators aiming to explore thoroughly had to master fighting skills both above and below the water. Pokemon selection became crucial as species that dominated on land often struggled beneath the surface.

Ash realised that he lacked any Pokemon specialising in aquatic combat. This oversight would need immediate attention if he planned to explore the third floor. His team's strength lay entirely in terrestrial environments—a significant disadvantage when facing opponents who had adapted specifically to oceanic conditions.

The problem ran deeper than simple type effectiveness. His cultivation method focused exclusively on Steel-type energy, creating a fundamental limitation that he'd never encountered before. Adding a Water-type Pokemon to his team would require significant effort or finding a Pokemon that combined both typings.

He knew of only one species that met those criteria—Empoleon, the evolved form of Piplup. The penguin-like Pokemon possessed both Steel and Water typing, making it theoretically compatible with his cultivation path. However, obtaining one presented considerable challenges. Wild Empoleon were extremely rare, typically found only in the most remote arctic regions of higher floors. Purchasing one would cost a fortune, assuming he could even locate a seller.

The alternative involved starting with a Piplup and investing months in raising it through its evolutionary stages. That time commitment seemed excessive for exploring a single floor, especially when he had no guarantee they'd remain on the third floor long enough to justify such an investment. His long-term goals involved ascending as quickly as possible, not establishing permanent residence.

Ash looked up from his reading when he heard a tapping against the window glass. Al hovered outside the sliding door to the balcony. Ash stood and opened the door, stepping outside into the evening air. He leaned against the balcony railing, the ocean breeze carrying the distant sound of waves against the rocks below.

"I have completed my initial investigation of the island, sir," Al reported.

"What did you discover?" Ash asked. "Anything I should be worried about?"

"Not that I can detect," Al replied. "One Island appears remarkably stable. I couldn't identify any major criminal elements operating openly."

Ash nodded, unsurprised by the assessment. "Makes sense. This island serves as the primary gateway to the Tower. The Overseers maintain tighter security here than in most places. What about the surrounding waters?"

"Precisely as you anticipated," Al said. "From my aerial reconnaissance, the sea Pokemon strength levels vary dramatically, even in shallow waters."

Ash had dispatched Al and the Giru robots earlier in the day to conduct thorough surveillance of their new environment.  The reconnaissance mission also served as a field test for recent upgrades to his robotic team. Al's earlier suggestion in the Factory had been successfully incorporated into both his design and the Giru units. Each robot now functioned essentially as a mobile Pokedex, equipped with extensive databases containing information on all known Pokemon species and sophisticated scanning systems.

The upgrade meant he didn’t need a Pokedex to scan them himself, saving him precious time. While his cultivation abilities allowed him to sense Pokemon strength to some degree, accuracy remained inconsistent, particularly when dealing with species he'd never encountered before. 

Besides that, all of his robots now had improved power units, letting them run longer before needing a recharge. This upgrade allowed him to increase the number of robots from three to seven, all managed by Al. He planned to modify the mech’s recharging stations so they could also work with the robots, but it would take some time.

Al continued. "Sailing anywhere beyond the established ferry lanes carries substantial unpredictability. Even short journeys could encounter unexpected threats."

"I'd rather avoid using the regular ferry services,” Ash said, “even if they provide better security. The real opportunities lie in unexplored areas."

"Do you have a specific strategy in mind?"

"Yes, but I need to accomplish certain objectives here before I consider leaving the island. Did you manage to survey Treasure Beach?"

Treasure Beach was located thirty kilometres south of One Island, positioned where several major ocean currents converged. The location's unique geography caused valuables from across the third floor to wash ashore regularly. The island had developed a reputation among adventure-seekers as the most accessible treasure-hunting destination for newcomers to the floor.

Al beeped in confirmation. "The island has become so overcrowded with treasure hunters that the local Mayor implemented a licensing system. Visitors must now pay substantial fees to search for treasure. I don’t believe it is a viable method to make money in the long-term."

"Alright," Ash replied. "I'll head into town tomorrow and investigate other opportunities."

Ash stayed on the balcony for a few more minutes, watching the waves hit the shore.

The third floor presented challenges unlike anything he'd previously encountered, but it also offered opportunities that could accelerate his progress dramatically if approached correctly. Tomorrow would begin the process of finding his place on the third floor.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=

Ash followed the flow of foot traffic downhill towards the harbour, where the impressive sight of the inter-island ferry dominated the pier. The vessel stretched nearly two hundred metres in length. Three decks accommodated both passengers and cargo, whilst the superstructure housed the captain's bridge and navigation equipment.

What caught Ash's attention wasn't the ship itself, but its method of propulsion. A massive Wailord lay half-submerged beside the pier, its enormous bulk making the ferry appear modest by comparison. Thick chains connected the Pokemon to reinforced points along the ship's bow, creating a harness system that had clearly seen extensive use.

The Wailord's size defied easy comprehension. Even with only its upper portion visible above the waterline, Ash estimated the creature measured at least forty metres in length. The massive eye that occasionally surfaced regarded the bustling activity with calm intelligence.

Ash watched the loading process with interest. The Wailord could easily pull the ferry through ocean currents that would challenge conventional engines, saving substantial fuel costs while providing transportation capacity no mechanical system could match. More importantly, its presence served as protection against aggressive sea Pokemon and pirates that might otherwise threaten the ship.

He didn't know who owned the Wailord, but whoever it was had to be a strong cultivator to bond with it. Al had already checked the Wailord's level, and it was above one hundred. That was terrifying enough, but a Pokemon's strength wasn't based on levels alone; size mattered too. It would take a lot to damage such a massive Pokemon. Few could match a powerful Wailord in the sea.

Ash remained at the harbour edge until the ferry departed. He continued into town and stopped outside the information centre, a squat building distinguished by its bright blue shutters and hand-painted sign depicting the Sevii Islands archipelago. Through the open windows, he caught glimpses of wall-mounted displays.

A bell chimed as he pushed through the entrance. 

"Welcome to the One Island Information Centre," called a cheerful voice from behind the reception desk.

Ash turned to see a young man approaching, perhaps in his early twenties, with tousled brown hair and an easy smile. His hands bore the slight calluses of someone who worked with equipment regularly, though his demeanour remained distinctly academic.

"I'm Celio," the man continued, extending his hand. 

"Ash," he replied, accepting the handshake. "I arrived yesterday and thought I should learn more about the area."

"Good choice. Most people rush off without the proper preparation. Usually, it costs them time, money, or something much worse. Let me show you the basics."

The building contained detailed displays about One Island. Ash studied a diagram showing the island's geological structure, noting the volcanic origins that created its distinctive terrain.

"We get a lot of people arriving here, but they don't usually hang about for long. Aside from Treasure Beach and Mt Ember, there isn't much here on One Island." Celio moved to stand beside a detailed map of the local area. "Most treat it as a stepping stone to more exotic destinations."

Ash nodded. "I hear there is a dojo here that teaches techniques for navigating the third floor."

"That's right," Celio replied. "I suggest you learn the Waterwalking technique, if nothing else. It could save your life. If you want to explore underwater ruins, then learning a breathing technique is also recommended. Although cultivators can hold their breath for several minutes, it still isn't enough. Some areas of the ocean descend to over ten thousand feet or more."

The Waterwalking technique was exactly as it sounded. It taught cultivators to walk on water as if it were land. Most oceanic conflicts occurred away from ships through an unspoken agreement between combatants. Nobody wanted their vessels destroyed in the crossfire.

Ash had already been planning to use the Registeel mech to explore underwater ruins. The machine was just as versatile underwater as it was on land and in the sky, protecting him from the massive pressures found at deeper depths. Even cultivators would be crushed if they lacked the required cultivation realm to resist such forces.

"I think I just discovered a new phobia," Ash murmured. “I would rather keep my feet planted on solid ground.”

Celio chuckled. "I get that response a lot. The sea is like another world, and can be very terrifying. I'll let you explore on your own. Let me know if you have any questions."

Ash examines the various displays, finding particular interest in information about other islands within the Sevii chain. They were spread across hundreds of kilometres, each island featuring unique towns and characteristics. After he got used to the third floor, he planned to visit each of them.

He moved to examine a display showcasing Mt Ember, located across a small expanse of sea to the north of the island. The mountain had an intricate cave system ascending through its interior, with multiple chambers and passages carved by ancient volcanic activity. 

Celio noticed his interest and approached. "Mt Ember has some wonderful views from the summit if you're interested in visiting. A mural dedicated to the legendary Moltres can be found there. You will need a Flying Pokemon to reach it."

"Why is that?"

"The summit is accessed through a network of caves that ascend the mountain. Recently, an earthquake caused a cave-in. It's a huge mess to clean up, even several months after the fact."

"Do you get a lot of earthquakes?"

"Yes, but none as violent as this one that caused the caves to collapse. Usually, they are located out at sea, which can cause their own problems."

"Tidal waves?"

"Yes. You will notice a sea wall protecting the town just beyond the harbour. Almost all the main islands have them." 

"Has the island been hit before?"

"Not in the past thirty years.”

"Good. I rented a private home on the east side of the island. I wouldn't want it to be washed away."

Celio's eyebrows rose. "I know the place you're referring to. Not the cheapest place to rent. Are you looking for some work?"

"Do you have something in mind?"

"Yes. Not many are willing to visit Mt Ember until the cave network is fixed. There is some equipment I left there in my haste to evacuate the mountain, but I can’t retrieve it myself. Interested?”

Ash considered the proposition. His original plan involved spending the first week in town focusing on training and learning more about the local area before attempting to explore further. The third floor presented enough unknowns without rushing into situations he didn't fully understand. However, he also recognised that opportunities to earn money might not present themselves regularly.

"I might be. Let me get back to you tomorrow after I'm done with my business."

"I'm always here." Celio reached beneath the reception desk and produced a folded document. "Here, you can use this."

Ash thanked him and left the building. He studied the map until he found the dojo, then started heading that way.

The dojo occupied a substantial compound near the island's centre, its architecture blending traditional martial arts aesthetics with practical maritime considerations. A carved sign above the entrance read "Rising Tide Dojo".

Dojos were unique institutions that could be found on the third floor and above, though they would become increasingly common and influential on higher levels of the Tower. These organisations filled roles that extended far beyond simple training facilities, charging fees for specialised techniques that conventional cultivation methods couldn't address. For example, the Rising Tide dojo specialised in waterwalking, underwater breathing, and maritime combat forms developed specifically for oceanic conditions. 

However, the dojos' influence extended beyond training. Successful dojos attracted talented individuals, creating networks of skilled practitioners who could influence local politics, economics, and security. The strongest dojos functioned as semi-official governing bodies that maintained stability in areas where traditional Tower authority remained distant or ineffective.

Ash pushed through the heavy wooden doors. The main hall stretched before him like an enormous aquatic training ground, dominated by several massive swimming pools of varying depths and configurations. The reception counter sat near the entrance, staffed by a middle-aged woman. She looked up from her ledger as Ash approached.

"First time visiting the dojo?" she asked.

"Yes. I'm interested in learning the Waterwalking technique."

She nodded. "The basic course runs ten thousand pokedollars and includes five sessions with one of our certified instructors. Most students achieve functional proficiency within that timeframe, though mastery takes longer."

"I'd like to begin immediately."

"Excellent. Payment up front.”

After completing the paperwork and transferring the funds, she led him towards the largest pool, where a group of eight students struggled to maintain their footing on the water's surface. Their instructor, a lean man in his forties with deeply tanned skin and salt-stained clothing, moved around the pool's edge offering corrections and encouragement.

Ash watched the other students more carefully, noting how they channelled their energy. Each practitioner focused their power downward through their feet, creating what appeared to be a thin layer of solidified energy that supported their weight on the water's surface. The technique required precise control—too little energy and they'd sink, too much and the surface tension would break, sending them plunging into the pool.

"The principle is simple enough," the instructor explained, noticing Ash's observation. "You're creating a temporary platform of cultivated energy that distributes your weight across the water's surface. The trick lies in maintaining exactly the right energy density while keeping the platform flexible enough to move naturally. As you improve, you learn to use less surface area, eventually only using the smallest amount needed to stay stable.”

The instructor directed Ash to enter the shallow end of the pool, where the water reached only waist-deep. "Start by channelling your energy through your feet while standing normally. Feel how the energy interacts with the water."

Ash waded into position and directed his energy downward through his meridians into his feet. The sensation proved immediately different from his usual energy manipulation. 

"Good. Now, gradually increase the density while lifting one foot."

Following the instruction, Ash raised his right foot while intensifying the energy flow through his left. To his surprise, he maintained his balance easily, the energy platform providing solid support despite the fluid medium.

Ash shifted his weight forward, extending his raised foot towards deeper water. The moment his foot touched the surface, he channelled energy through it while simultaneously maintaining the platform beneath his standing leg. For a brief instant, both feet held firm on the water's surface.

Then his concentration slipped, and he plunged into the pool with a tremendous splash. Ash climbed out of the water, muttering under his breath.

“Keep practising,” the instructor said. 

By the end of the first session, he could walk across the entire pool without assistance, though his movements remained somewhat mechanical. Still, judging by the other students' progress, he was well ahead of the curve. Ash felt confident the technique wouldn't take long to master completely. With regular practice over the next few sessions, he should achieve the instinctive control necessary for real-world application.

Now that he was addressing the issue of combat on open water, he needed to consider the broader challenges of navigating the third floor's maritime environment. The technique would allow him to fight effectively on the ocean's surface, but it wouldn't solve his transportation problems across the vast distances between islands.

Ash needed his own boat. He needed the freedom to travel wherever he wanted, but it needed to be safe. He already had an idea of how he would achieve safe, independent maritime transport, though it would take considerable time to figure out the logistics.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

The rhythmic hammering echoed across the small dock. Bender had positioned itself beside the boat's hull, methodically adjusting the metal plating with each carefully placed strike. Despite its diminutive size, the Pokemon demonstrated an intuitive understanding of structural engineering that impressed Ash.

"The curvature needs to be more pronounced along the waterline," Al suggested, hovering beside the vessel. "Current design will create unnecessary drag at higher speeds."

Ash nodded, running his hand along the sleek hull. The boat represented days of experimentation, combining two distinct materials in ways he'd never attempted before. The facility's metal formed the structural foundation. Over the past week, he'd learned to shape it into smooth, flowing curves that would slice through ocean swells with minimal resistance.

The real innovation lay in the dual propulsion system. Thin channels of Steelium ran throughout the hull like a circulatory system, connecting to larger reservoirs near the stern. When activated, he could direct the liquid metal through these pathways, creating thrust without the mechanical complexity of traditional engines. However, Ash had recognised the limitations of relying solely on his cultivation energy for extended voyages.

He'd integrated a compact electric motor into the design, positioned within the boat's central cavity and connected to a sophisticated transmission system. Unlike conventional engines that required fuel, this system operated entirely on electrical power that Blitz could generate.

Initial tests had proven both systems complementary rather than redundant. The electric motor excelled at sustained forward momentum, efficiently converting Blitz's electrical output into consistent thrust. Meanwhile, the Steelium system provided instantaneous directional control and the ability to stop or reverse without the mechanical delays inherent in traditional propulsion.

The boat measured just over eight metres in length, large enough for extended voyages yet small enough for a single pilot to handle. Its streamlined profile sat low in the water, designed to avoid detection from both pirates and aggressive sea Pokemon. 

"How is the little project coming along?" Winona's voice carried across the water.

Ash looked up to find her approaching along the narrow dock.

"Slowly," Ash replied, straightening from his work.

She stopped beside the boat, running an appraising gaze over the unusual construction. 

"I'll be leaving tomorrow," she said.

"Have you got somewhere to be?"

"I'm going to explore on my own and see if I can make some money. Contribute to our finances."

Ash frowned. "It's not safe out there on your own.”

"I'm a big girl. I can take care of myself."

The mild tone didn't disguise the steel beneath. Ash recognised that particular inflexion—he'd heard it before when she'd made similarly immovable decisions. Experience told him that arguing would prove counterproductive.

"I'm not going to convince you otherwise, am I?" Ash asked. 

"No."

“Are you using your Pokemon to get around?”

"Yes. That way, I will make much faster progress. Even if I encounter trouble I can't handle, I should be able to escape easily enough."

"Don't get too cocky."

"As if."

Winona possessed the strength of a mid-level Spirit Realm cultivator, placing her well above average even on the third floor. Her flying Pokemon were equally formidable. Logically, Ash understood she could protect herself better than he could protect her. Emotionally, the thought of her venturing alone into the third floor’s dangers made his chest tight.

"Look after Erika while I'm gone," Winona said. "She needs to build herself a new party of Pokemon. Her Zubat won't cut it."

"She doesn't like combat."

"Even if she doesn't, she needs to learn to protect herself. Your mum doesn't like conflict either, but that's not stopping her from training."

"I think Jessie corrupted her.”

"Just a little. Speaking of Delia, I need to bring a present back for her. Didn't you say her birthday is coming up?"

"Yeah. But you don't need to get her anything."

"Nonsense. Isn't Blue almost ready to evolve? Maybe I can get a Water Stone for his evolution."

"Well, the floor is not short of them."

Winona returned inside without further ceremony, leaving Ash alone with his project. He turned back to the boat, using the familiar work to distract himself from unwelcome thoughts about her impending departure. The hull required several more hours of refinement before he could risk testing it in open water.

Bender resumed its methodical hammering, the Pokemon's focus unbroken by the human conversation. Al drifted closer, his sensors scanning the boat's progress.

"The propulsion chambers require calibration," Al observed. "Current Steelium distribution may prove insufficient for sustained high-speed operation."

Ash nodded, already mentally calculating the modifications needed. Once he had built the boat, he was heading for Mt Ember to complete the request for Celio. The mission would allow him to test the vessel's capabilities while earning much-needed income. Celio had been vague about the equipment left behind, but the substantial payment suggested that it was something valuable.

He had briefly considered bonding with Skarmory and using the Pokemon to fly to the mountain directly. However, his current team already demanded considerable attention and resources. Bringing Blink up to fighting strength remained his immediate priority. Once his financial situation stabilised and he'd mastered his existing Pokemon's capabilities, adding Skarmory to the roster would become feasible.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

The boat cut through the choppy waters, its hybrid propulsion system responding to every adjustment he made. Ash sat in the pilot's seat, steering the vehicle toward Mt Ember, which rose ahead in the distance.

Al hovered beside the pilot's position, and the five Giru robots had spread out in a triangular formation around the vessel, their sensors scanning the waters for threats.

"Visual contact with the target island," Al reported. "No immediate threats detected."

The dock came into view as they approached the island's southern shore. Ash reduced speed, allowing the electric motor to idle while he used Steelium manipulation to guide the boat into the harbour. The structure was simple but well-maintained, designed to accommodate the small vessels that ferried supplies and personnel to the island.

His satisfaction at the smooth approach evaporated when he spotted the other vessels. Three sleek boats occupied berths along the main pier. Each craft was larger than his own vessel, built for speed rather than stealth.

Ash secured his boat to an empty berth and stepped onto the wooden planking. The dock felt solid beneath his feet, but unease settled in his stomach like a cold stone. Celio had been explicit about the island's current status—the repair crews weren't scheduled to return for another week, leaving the island temporarily abandoned.

"I'm getting a bad feeling about this," Ash murmured.

"Shall I have the Giru robots investigate?" Al asked.

"Yes. Make sure they maintain stealth. And enter stealth mode yourself. We don't want anyone discovering your presence."

"Very well, sir."

Al's form shimmered and vanished as his cloaking technology activated. The Giru robots dispersed silently, moving toward the island's interior to begin reconnaissance. Ash summoned his Pokemon, feeling marginally better as Blitz, Blade, Bastion, and Blaze materialised around him.

The path from the dock wound through scrubby vegetation toward a cluster of prefabricated buildings. These structures served as temporary accommodation for researchers and repair crews. Ash approached cautiously, noting how the mountain's presence seemed to dominate everything else on the island.

Mt Ember rose before him in magnificent isolation, its slopes scarred by ancient lava flows and more recent rockslides. The volcanic peak commanded respect, radiating the kind of primal power that made humans feel insignificant. 

As Ash passed between the buildings, details began registering that made his unease deepen. Fresh footprints marked the sandy path, and discarded water bottles lay beside one structure. A door stood slightly ajar, moving gently in the ocean breeze.

Beyond the buildings, the cave entrance gaped like a wound in the mountain's flesh. Warning signs had been posted around the opening—bright yellow placards that detailed the dangers of potential cave-ins. The equipment was supposed to be located in the first network of caves, areas unaffected by the earthquake damage. A simple retrieval mission, according to Celio.

Ash approached the cave mouth, Pokemon flanking him in defensive formation. He was reaching for the torch in his pack when Al whispered beside him.

"Sir, the Giru robots have identified multiple individuals within the cave system. They appear to be heading toward the exit."

Ash spun away from the entrance, sprinting back toward the buildings. He ducked behind the nearest structure just as voices began echoing from the cave mouth. Something told him that he didn’t want to meet these people. 

Then realisation struck him. He had left his boat moored at the dock, its unusual construction impossible to miss. The moment these people reached the harbour, they would know someone else had arrived on the island.

What should he do?

So, what do you think? In the next chapter, Ash encounters some pirates.

Thanks for reading.