335. Arceus

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Kai paused to recall. He vaguely remembered this place. It was said to contain not only fossils of ancient Pokémon embedded in the layers of the earth but also countless unsolved mysteries. Among them was a mysterious species unknown to most of humanity, Unown, and even a hidden entrance that led to the Sinjoh Ruins.

In this world, not many were familiar with the Sinjoh Ruins, but having played the games, Kai knew that deep within the ruins lay the "Mystri Stage," a ceremonial altar built specifically to honor Arceus.

Yes, Arceus the Creator.

Legend said that anyone who reached that altar and presented an offering would receive the blessings of the Original One.

To think that getting lost would accidentally bring him here! Though he currently lacked the means to enter the Sinjoh Ruins, exploring this area was certainly worthwhile. Who knew? Maybe he'd find a rare fossil or even stumble upon something unexpected.

Despite his curiosity, Kai didn't immediately rush off to dig around blindly. Instead, he and Sabrina followed a well-worn dirt path through the canyon, arriving at a large domed building nestled at the far end.

As they approached, they realized the structure was a state-of-the-art research facility, doubling as a museum and ecological reserve. Since the exhibition hall was open to the public, they pushed open the doors and stepped inside.

Cool air conditioning provided relief from the outdoor heat. The first floor housed the exhibition space, neatly divided into themed areas, most of which focused on fossils.

Nearby, a closed-off hallway led to an Ancient Pokémon Park. Kai noted the sign indicating it wasn't yet open to the public—likely still under construction.

Aside from them, a handful of visitors milled about, browsing exhibits and taking in the sights. Soft lighting cast a gentle glow on the displays, adding an air of mystery to the fossils.

Kai smiled and offered his hand to Sabrina. She returned the gesture, lightly looping her arm through his.

The couple wandered through the hall, pausing occasionally in front of a display to study the specimens and exchange a few words. Most of the fossils weren't anything too rare: Kabuto, Omanyte, Anorith, Lileep, but interesting nonetheless.

Then Kai suddenly stopped in front of one particular exhibit.

Inside the glass case sat an intricately carved statue. Though the features weren't exact, it bore a striking resemblance to the mythical Pokémon Hoopa.

As he bent down for a closer look, a tall researcher in a white coat approached.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" the man said, almost to himself. "Hard to imagine ancient civilizations crafting such intricate pieces without modern tools."

Kai glanced at him. The man was unusually broad-shouldered for a scholar, with spiky hair and a cheerful demeanor that contrasted with the usual stoic researcher vibe.

Seeing Kai's gaze, the man introduced himself. "Hi, I'm Foster head researcher at the Ruins of Alph Archaeological Park. You're Kai, right? Visiting us on purpose?"

Kai blinked. "You know who I am?"

"Of course! You're pretty famous," Foster said with a grin. "I've watched your matches, and I recognized you the moment you stepped in. I also read the paper you co-authored with Professors Oak and Ivy."

'Ah yes… that paper again.'

It seemed merely being associated with those two respected figures was enough to grant him considerable recognition.

Not that Kai minded being well-known had its perks, especially during travel. People were more inclined to help or strike up a conversation.

Noting Kai's reaction, Foster continued, "Oh, and I graduated from Celadon University. I studied under Professor Oak."

Another one of Oak's students…

Kai wasn't even surprised anymore. Professor Oak truly had a far-reaching legacy—his students were everywhere, contributing to all corners of the Pokémon world.

"Pleasure to meet you," Kai said, shaking Foster's hand. "So, what's your area of research?"

"I specialize in ancient Pokémon history," Foster replied. "Some say Pokémon first appeared around two million years ago, based on Kabuto fossils. But I support the oceanic origin theory—I believe their existence dates back even further."

The oceanic origin theory…

Fascinating to see similar scientific debates existing in both worlds.

Kai returned his attention to the statue. "Foster, is it just me, or does this carving look a lot like—"

"—Hoopa?" Foster finished with a laugh. "You're not the first to say that. Historical records suggest that, at one point, a group of early settlers migrated here from the Sinnoh region. On their journey, they integrated cultural elements from Kalos and other regions. That's likely why this sculpture bears Hoopa-like traits."

"I see…"

As someone who had never formally studied the history of this world, Kai was eager to learn from someone so well-versed in the subject.

"So, Foster—what exactly are the Ruins of Alph?"

Perhaps sensing Kai's sincerity, Foster didn't hold back.

"Roughly 1,500 years ago, the earliest signs of civilization in Johto appeared right here—at the Ruins of Alph. No one knows who built them, but archaeological evidence shows a highly advanced society for its time, including one of the earliest known writing systems."

Foster's passionate explanation helped Kai grasp the scope of this world's past.

The more he learned, the more he felt connected to it… and the more he fell in love with it.

Foster smiled. "Oh, by the way, we provide free excavation tools. If you're interested, feel free to head outside and try your luck—you might just dig up a rare fossil!"

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