The Champion Stage {Path of the Aura Ranger: Book III}

I Leon's P.O.V

The news of Lusamine Aether's sudden resignation from her position as Chairwoman of the Aether Foundation in the Alola Islands had even reached the Galar region. As the reigning Champion, it was my duty to stay informed about significant developments in the Pokémon World, and this was no exception. Chairman Rose and I shared a knowing glance as we discussed the situation. We both understood that there was more to the story than met the eye. The media's portrayal of Lusamine's decision to step back and focus on her research seemed too convenient, too tidy to be the full truth.

Champion Ash's unexpected presence in the Alola Islands with a team of rangers under his command raised more questions than answers. Ash was known for his unwavering dedication to justice and his tireless efforts to protect Pokémon and their habitats. If he was involved in Lusamine's sudden resignation, there had to be a compelling reason behind it. I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something darker lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly innocuous transition of power. Lusamine's confinement to her mansion only added to my suspicions. It was clear that whatever had transpired in Alola was far from ordinary.

As I pondered the implications of these developments, I couldn't help but sense a palpable unease emanating from my esteemed colleague. While I shared Chairman Rose's concerns about the potential ramifications of Ash's actions, I also couldn't help but wonder what had stirred such apprehension within him. It was no secret that Ash possessed an uncanny ability to navigate the intricate web of politics and intrigue that often plagued the various regions of the Pokémon world. His reputation as a formidable champion and a relentless seeker of justice preceded him, earning him both admiration and respect from trainers and leaders alike.

However, what puzzled me was Chairman Rose's apparent sense of urgency regarding Ash's involvement in the affairs of Alola. As far as I knew, Ash only intervened in matters outside of his own region when absolutely necessary, preferring to focus his efforts on honing his skills as a trainer and strengthening his bond with his Pokémon. So, what had prompted Chairman Rose to harbor such concerns? Was there something about the situation in Alola that we were missing, some hidden danger lurking beneath the surface? Or perhaps there were political machinations at play that even Ash had yet to uncover.

As I mulled over these questions, a sense of curiosity mingled with a growing sense of unease. Whatever was unfolding with Ash, it was clear that it had captured Chairman Rose's attention for a reason. It was then that I recalled Ash's warning from last year about Chairman Rose. A chill ran down my spine, and I couldn't shake the feeling that perhaps I had been too quick to dismiss his concerns. Ash was no stranger to navigating the murky waters of corruption and deceit, having spent years as a Ranger Captain dismantling criminal syndicates and upholding justice in the face of adversity.

At the time, I'll admit, I had brushed off Ash's warning as nothing more than the musings of a seasoned ranger, perhaps a tad paranoid from his years of confronting danger head-on. I had convinced myself that Ash was merely seeing shadows where none existed, searching for trouble in a region that, to me, seemed relatively stable. But now, as I stood face to face with Chairman Rose, his demeanor seemingly unchanged despite the gravity of the situation in Alola, I couldn't help but wonder if there was some truth to Ash's words after all. Was Chairman Rose truly the benevolent leader he appeared to be, or was there something more sinister lurking beneath the surface?

With a practiced smile plastered on my face, I bid Chairman Rose farewell, excusing myself under the guise of other commitments. But inwardly, my mind was racing, consumed by the need to uncover the truth. A sense of apprehension gnawed at my insides, mingled with a determination to unearth whatever secrets lay hidden in the shadows. For if Ash's warning held even a shred of truth, then the fate of Galar could hang in the balance.

I quickly released my trusted starter and climbed on his back. As Charizard soared through the sky, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease. The weight of Ash's warning and the unsettling events at Rose Tower weighed heavily on my mind. I could sense Charizard's concern emanating from beneath me, his powerful wings beating rhythmically against the air as we flew further and further away from the bustling streets of Wyndon. Once we reached a remote spot far from prying eyes, I dismounted Charizard and took a moment to gather my thoughts.

With a deep breath, I reached for my Rotom Phone and dialed Ash's number, my heart pounding with anticipation as I waited for him to pick up. When his surprised face appeared on the screen, I could sense his curiosity at my unexpected call, but it quickly gave way to his trademark grin as he greeted me warmly. As Ash shared the news of him upgrading his Xtransceiver for a Rotom Phone, I couldn't help but chuckle at his enthusiasm. Despite the gravity of the situation weighing on my shoulders, his infectious energy never failed to lift my spirits, if only for a moment.

"Ash, I need to talk to you about something serious." I started, firmly.

Ash paused, his expression turning serious. "Sure, Leon. What's on your mind?"

I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts. "It's about Chairman Rose. I... I think you might have been right about him."

"What do you mean?" Ash raised an eyebrow in concern.

"I've been noticing some things lately, some... discrepancies in his actions." I sighed, feeling quite disappointed as I had thought highly of Chairman Rose until now. "I can't shake the feeling that there's something off about him, something... sinister."

Ash nodded, his expression understanding. "I see. So, what do you want to do about it?"

I hesitated, uncertainty flickering. "I'm not sure. That's why I called you. I need your help, Ash. Your insight, your experience... I trust your judgment."

"Well, you're not alone in this, Leon. We'll figure it out together." Ash nodded thoughtfully.

"Thanks, Ash. I appreciate it." I felt a sense of relief wash over me.

Ash smiled reassuringly. "No problem. But hey, have you considered calling in some outside help? Sometimes a fresh perspective can make all the difference."

I paused, contemplating Ash's suggestion. "You know, that's not a bad idea. Galar has always prided itself on its independence, but maybe it's time for us to reach out and join forces with the rest of the world."

"Exactly," Ash nodded in agreement. "Together, we can uncover the truth and put an end to whatever Chairman Rose is planning."

I smiled determinedly. "Right. Let's do this, Ash."