{KINGDOM OF AURORA - RANSEI REGION}

???: “Oh… Please wake up…”

(Shadecleaver - still unconscious, but very well alive - has ended up in the kingdom of Aurora.)

???: “Come on… Come on…”

(Shadecleaver slowly opens his eyes, groaning as he tries to sit up. His head is pounding, and he looks around to try and assess his surroundings.)

Shadecleaver: “Where… where am I? Who are you?”

???: “Oh, thank goodness you’re awake! This is the kingdom of Aurora - one of the several kingdoms of the Ransei region. My name’s Oichi!”

Shadecleaver: “Ransei region? I’ve never heard of it before. And who are you, Oichi? Why did you help me?”

Oichi: “I’m just a resident of this kingdom, trying to do good deeds. When I found you injured and unconscious, I couldn’t just leave you there. It’s not safe to be alone in these lands, especially for someone who seems like a warrior like you.”

Shadecleaver: “Warrior… yes, that’s right. I am Shadecleaver, a wanderer and a warrior in search of stronger opponents. Unfortunately, it seems like I’ve been defeated this time…”

Oichi: “Don’t worry, Shadecleaver. You’re in the hands of the people of Aurora now. We will take care of you and help you recover. You’re safe here.”

Shadecleaver: “Thank you, Oichi. I appreciate the kindness. But I must know, how did I end up in Aurora? The last thing I remember is being in a fierce battle.”

Oichi: “Well, it seems like fate has brought you to our kingdom. Sometimes, destiny has its own plans for us. Perhaps there is a reason you ended up here. As for the battle you mentioned, I’m afraid I don’t have the answers. But I can assure you, we’ll do everything we can to help you find your way back or achieve whatever goal you have.”

Shadecleaver: “I appreciate your words, Oichi. I have a feeling that my journey has only just begun. I will rest and recover here in Aurora, and when I am ready, I’ll continue my quest. But for now, I must ask for your guidance. Tell me more about the Ransei region, its kingdoms, and its challenges.”

Oichi: “Of course, Shadecleaver. I’ll be happy to share what I know. The Ransei region is a vast land filled with diverse kingdoms, each with its own unique culture, challenges, and rulers. Aurora, the kingdom you’re in now, is known for its beauty and tranquility. But don’t be deceived, there are still battles and conflicts that take place. The region is also known for its Pokémon battles, where warriors like you and me can team up with Pokémon partners to engage in strategic battles. It’s a way for kingdoms to assert their power and compete for dominance.”

Shadecleaver: “Pokémon battles, you say? That sounds intriguing. I’ve heard tales of these creatures and their extraordinary powers. Perhaps I can find formidable opponents here and test my skills.”

Oichi: “Absolutely, Shadecleaver. Pokémon battles are a way for warriors to prove their strength, form alliances, and build their reputation. If you’re interested, I can introduce you to the local Pokémon trainers and help you on your journey. Together, we can explore the Ransei region and uncover its secrets.”

Shadecleaver: “That sounds like a worthy endeavor, Oichi. I accept your offer and look forward to what lies ahead. Let us embark on this new chapter together, in the Kingdom of Aurora.”

(Just then, a strange-looking person approaches them. He didn’t look like he was from Aurora.)

???: “Well, look what we have here! A new warlord? Hmph! Seems like newcomer hasn’t recovered his memory yet!”

Oichi: sighs “Of course… Why did decide to come here, warlord Hideyoshi?”

Hideyoshi: “I heard about a strong warrior being brought to Aurora and I couldn’t resist the opportunity for a challenge. I am Hideyoshi, the warlord of the kingdom of Ignis!”

Shadecleaver: “Hideyoshi, is it? I am Shadecleaver, and it seems we share a similar desire for challenge and strength. If you are seeking a battle, then I accept your challenge. But know that I am still recovering and may not be at my full strength.”

Oichi: “Shadecleaver, you just woke up. You shouldn’t push yourself too hard. Your health comes first.”

Hideyoshi: “Hahaha, no need to worry, Oichi. I’ve waited long enough for a worthy opponent. Let’s see what this newcomer is truly capable of.”

Shadecleaver: “Very well, Hideyoshi. I accept your challenge, but let us keep it friendly and honorable. We are warriors, after all.”

Oichi: “Please, both of you, remember that there are more important matters at hand. We should be focusing on helping Shadecleaver recover and guiding him on his journey.”

Hideyoshi: “Hmph, fine. But don’t think I’ll go easy on you when the time comes, Shadecleaver.”

Shadecleaver: “I wouldn’t expect anything less, Hideyoshi. I look forward to our battle when the time is right. But for now, let’s focus on getting me back to full strength. Oichi, please show me to a place where I can rest and recover.”

Oichi: “Of course, Shadecleaver. Follow me, and I’ll take you to a safe and comfortable place where you can regain your strength. We’ll deal with battles and challenges when you’re ready.”

(Shadecleaver and Oichi walk away, leaving Hideyoshi standing there, his eyes fixed on Shadecleaver. He seems intrigued by this new arrival in the kingdom of Aurora.)

Hideyoshi: “Hmph, this Shadecleaver may prove to be an interesting opponent. I’ll have to keep a close eye on him.”

(Eventually, Shadecleaver and Oichi arrive in the kingdom of Violight.)

Oichi: “Here we are, Shadecleaver. This is the kingdom of Violight, known for its electric-themed battles and its strong connections with Pokémon. It’s one of the neighboring kingdoms of Aurora.”

Shadecleaver: “Electric-themed battles, you say? That sounds electrifying. I’m eager to see what challenges await me here.”

Oichi: “I’m glad to hear that, Shadecleaver. But, there’s something that the inhabitants of Violight have requested of me. Their warlord - Ginchiyo - hasn’t left her room at all.”

Shadecleaver: “Ginchiyo, you say? Is she unwell? I’m willing to offer my assistance if it can be of any help.”

Oichi: “That’s very kind of you, Shadecleaver. The people of Violight believe that Ginchiyo might be struggling with a personal issue, and they’re worried about her well-being. If you’re willing to lend a hand and try to help her, it would mean a lot to them and to me.”

Shadecleaver: “I see. It seems like a noble cause, and I’m always willing to help those in need. Lead the way, Oichi. Let’s see if we can offer our support to Ginchiyo.”

(Oichi and Shadecleaver make their way to Ginchiyo’s residence, knocking on the door.)

Ginchiyo: (From inside, and slightly in pain) “Who is it? Oww…!”

Oichi: “It’s Oichi and Shadecleaver, Ginchiyo. We’ve come to check on you and offer our assistance. Are you okay?”

Ginchiyo: (Opening the door slightly with a pained expression - and a hand on her baby bump) “Oichi? And… Shadecleaver? What brings you here? AAAAHHH!”

(Oichi and Shadecleaver are taken aback by Ginchiyo’s sudden scream of pain.)

Shadecleaver: “Ginchiyo! Are you alright? What’s wrong?”

Ginchiyo: (Breathing heavily) “My apologies… It seems the pain caught me by surprise. Please, come in.”

(Oichi and Shadecleaver enter the room, and they see Ginchiyo clutching her stomach.)

Oichi: “Ginchiyo, what’s happening? Should we call for a healer?”

Ginchiyo: (Nods) “Yes, please. The pain seems to be intensifying, and I fear for the safety of my child. Oichi, can you fetch a healer from the kingdom?”

Oichi: “Of course, Ginchiyo. I’ll be right back.”

(Oichi quickly rushes out of the room to find a healer, leaving Shadecleaver alone with Ginchiyo.)

Shadecleaver: “Ginchiyo, is there anything I can do to help in the meantime? I may not have healing abilities, but I can offer my support.”

Ginchiyo: (Grateful) “Thank you, Shadecleaver. Your presence alone brings me comfort. Please, just stay with me and keep me calm.”

(Shadecleaver takes a seat beside Ginchiyo, offering a reassuring presence as they both wait for the healer to arrive. Time feels like it passes slowly, with each passing moment filled with concern and anticipation.)

(The healer finally arrives, a skilled individual known for their ability to treat various Pokémon and humans alike.)

Healer: “I heard there was someone in need of aid. Ginchiyo, I presume? I am Sakura, the kingdom’s esteemed healer. Let me take a look at you.”

(Sakura carefully examines Ginchiyo, checking her pulse and asking her questions about her symptoms. After a thorough examination, she has a serious expression on her face.)

Sakura: “Ginchiyo, it appears that you’re going into labor. I’m afraid the time has come for you to give birth.”

Ginchiyo: (Surprised) “Labor? But it’s too soon… I’m only 7 months pregnant. Is the baby in danger?”

Sakura: “It’s definitely earlier than expected, but sometimes these things happen. The baby’s health will depend on a range of factors, but we’ll do everything we can to ensure a safe delivery. We need to get you to the maternity ward right away.”

Ginchiyo: (Clutching Shadecleaver’s hand tightly) “Please, Shadecleaver, stay by my side during this. I’ll need your strength and support.”

Shadecleaver: (Squeezing Ginchiyo’s hand reassuringly) “I will be right here with you, Ginchiyo. I won’t leave your side.”

(Sakura and a couple of nurses help Ginchiyo to the maternity ward, with Shadecleaver following closely behind. Inside the ward, everything is prepared for the imminent birth. The sounds of gentle encouragement and soothing words fill the air, creating an atmosphere of hope and resilience.)

Ginchiyo: (Taking deep breaths) “Shadecleaver, thank you for being here with me. I couldn’t have asked for a better support.”

Shadecleaver: “You don’t need to thank me, Ginchiyo. I am honored to be here for you. We’ll get through this together.”

(As the hours pass, Ginchiyo’s contractions intensify and the moment finally arrives for Ginchiyo to push.)