Ash the Dragon Specialist

The Vertress Conference - Part I

Ash and Trip's met in Vertress City. The bustling cityscape, with its towering buildings and bustling trainers, was a fitting backdrop to their meeting. As Ash approached Trip, he couldn't help but notice the subtle change in the demeanor of Trip. Trip's usually stern countenance seemed softened, and there was a reflective look in his eyes, mirroring the serious atmosphere that had fallen over Unova. The upcoming Vertress Conference was unlike any other, overshadowed by the uncharacteristic behavior of Unova's Champion, Alder.

"Hey, Trip," Ash began, choosing his words with care. "Thank you for accepting my invitation to talk. I wanted to talk to you about something before the conference starts."

Trip turned to face Ash, his usual air of competitiveness momentarily replaced by curiosity. "What's on your mind?"

Ash's expression grew somber as he spoke, "It's about Alder, Unova's Champion. He's been acting... well, not like himself lately. The way he behaved towards you was inexcusable and I do not want you to think this as an excuse his behavior. But I thought you would like to know. Alder... he's going through a tough time and fallen into a state of depression, that's why he's been acting that way."

Trip regarded Ash, processing the revelation. The Champion was an emblem of strength, revered throughout Unova and beyond. The Trainer that had inspired Trip to start his own journey and enter the Vertress Conference. To hear that he was facing personal struggles was a sobering reminder of the humanity that existed even within the most remarkable individuals.

"Is that so?" Trip replied, his tone more contemplative than confrontational. "I had noticed the difference but didn't know why."

Ash nodded, his concern for Alder mirrored in his eyes. "Yeah, it's been tough on everyone. But he's still a great trainer, and I'm sure he'd want us to give it our all at the conference."

Trip's lips curled into a determined smile, and there was a touch of camaraderie in his gaze. "You're right. We'll give it everything we've got."

As they parted ways, Ash and Trip knew that, when they stepped into the conference arena, they would be opponents. Whatever camaraderie they were feeling at the moment, would vanish and be replaced by a competitiveness.

As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, painting the sky with a tapestry of colors, Ash found himself at the bustling entrance of the hotel in Vertress City. The Vertress Conference was a grand event, drawing trainers and spectators from near and far, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement and competition.

Waiting at the entrance were familiar faces that held a special place in Ash's heart. Cilan greeted Ash with a warm smile. "Hey, Ash, you won't believe the news. I just got off the phone with Celeste."

Ash's interest was piqued. "Celeste? What did she say?"

Cilan's eyes twinkled with excitement. "She's doing her publicity tour in Hoenn after her win at the Hoenn Grand Festival. But she promised she'd make it for the finals of the Vertress Conference."

A grin spread across Ash's face as he absorbed this news. "That's amazing! Thanks for letting me know, Cilan."

As the group entered the lobby of the hotel, Professor Oak and Drayden-sensei joined them. The lobby was abuzz with trainers from various regions, all united by their shared passion for pokemon battles.

Drayden-sensei, ever perceptive, noted Ash's elation. "I see the prospect of Celeste joining us for the finals has brightened your spirits, Ash."

Ash nodded. "Definitely! It's going to be great having her here. I missed her at the Unova League, but I understand she had her own journey to finish."