"Following our current route, Whitestone should be just ahead."
"Whitestone? You mean the town that was nominated as a candidate for historical heritage designation?"
After leaving the ruins, Ash and the others continued toward Olivine City.
It was worth mentioning that although Ash had destroyed the mask and staff, he had collected the fragments and mailed them to Professor Oak. With the professor's knowledge and experience, Ash believed he might discover something through studying them.
After several days of travel, they were finally approaching Whitestone.
Upon entering, they immediately understood how the town had gotten its name. All the buildings were constructed from white limestone, and the entire town gave off a peaceful, artistic atmosphere that made visitors feel comfortable the moment they arrived.
Viewed from above, the town looked as though it had stepped straight out of a painting. Under the sunlight, its buildings possessed a beauty unlike anything they had seen elsewhere.
The group was captivated by the scenery as soon as they entered the town.
"Wow, this place is beautiful!" Misty exclaimed.
"No wonder it was nominated for historical heritage designation. The scenery here really is extraordinary!" Brock said as he checked the travel guide.
Ash looked around. The town's appearance was certainly different from everywhere else, but if he remembered correctly, an artist lived here with three Smeargle.
If possible, Ash wanted to teach them some graffiti techniques from the future. Perhaps that would help the townspeople accept their art.
With that thought in mind, Ash began looking around for the Smeargle.
"Ash, what are you looking for?" Misty asked after noticing his behavior.
"I'm looking for something interesting."
"Something interesting?"
"There." Ash happened to spot three Smeargle painting on a wall and pointed toward them. "Isn't that interesting?"
"What kind of Pokémon are those?"
"They're Smeargle, the Painter Pokémon. They use the paint from their tails to draw pictures and mark their territory," Ash explained.
"It looks like they're painting something," Misty said, pointing at them.
At that moment, a group of townspeople suddenly rushed over.
"Catch them!" they shouted.
"Why are you trying to catch us?"
"Your Smeargle have made a mess of our entire town!"
"Please get your facts straight. This is our first time here. I don't know what happened in your town, but could you at least make sure you have the right people before accusing us?"
"I'm sorry! My Smeargle have caused trouble for you again. I'll compensate everyone for all the damage."
An elderly man suddenly stepped between Ash and the townspeople and apologized to them.
After introducing himself, the elderly man explained that he was Jack Pollockson, an artist who had become famous in his younger days. The three Smeargle were his Pokémon.
"So you're hoping they'll create a miraculous painting of their own?" Ash asked.
"Yes. That is my wish."
"Then why don't I help you?"
Everyone was stunned by Ash's offer.
"Ash, are you sure you can do this?"
"Of course. It's time to show you my hidden artistic talent. Mr. Pollockson, please lend me your Smeargle. I promise I won't disappoint you."
After convincing everyone, Ash brought the Smeargle to a large wall.
"You enjoy painting on walls, but the people here don't approve of what you've been doing. If you want them to recognize your art, you can't paint random scribbles everywhere. Your work needs clear shapes, colors, and purpose. People shouldn't look at it and think you merely threw paint at the wall. Understand?"
The Smeargle nodded.
Ash then taught them several graffiti concepts and techniques from the Earth. Smeargle were naturally talented at sketching, so they quickly understood his guidance.
The Smeargle then began creating what could be considered their first true work of art, using themselves as the subjects. If it had to be categorized by style, it leaned heavily toward abstract art.
The finished piece received unanimous praise from the people of Whitestone. Jack Pollockson also praised it repeatedly and offered Ash his heartfelt thanks.
Later, Kurt's granddaughter Maizie arrived and returned the GS Ball to Ash. She explained that they had been unable to uncover any of its secrets, so she was returning it according to their previous agreement.
Having done another good deed, Ash and his companions resumed their travels.
...
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