David has been looking at the tabloids on his tablet. "Whoa… That's a lot of competition we have here. I'm…honestly feeling a bit nervous."
"There's still so many more people waiting to be announced for the tournament. Did the last one have just as big a roster?" Frosta asked.
"I'd estimate it had around…500 people, at least." Mayumi said.
"Yeah, and then they did this battle token thing between all the trainers willing to compete, so that number pretty much went down by the time the actual tournament started." Simon added.
"Actually…the number that entered in the last one was 10,000." Twilight said.
"10,000? That many people?" Shun'ei said.
"That's why the medallion rule was set. To whittle down the competition. No doubt they'll do something similar this time around too." Jexi said.
"In any case, we are seeing a lot of newcomers from all over as well. It's gonna be interesting to see what combinations pop up." Scott said.
"A shame Zamazenta wouldn't be joining in." Zacian said.
"It's probably for the best. Even if news reached out to them, they probably would have sat out anyway." David said. "With or without them, though… This promises to be a very extravagant event. I can feel it."
"It will be certainly interesting." Yuri said.
"But now…our focus…is there." Jexi said looking out at a massive landscape with a number of different biomes.
"So this…is Paldea…" Hope said.
"Holy moly… It's huge!" Shun'ei said.
"Interesting thing is, Paldea seems to be based on the Iberian Penninsula." Mari said.
"Nice fact there, Mari. But holy crap, how the heck does anybody explore this place from top to bottom?!" Kaibara asked. "This has gotta be the biggest region we've ever seen!"
"You really think so, Gyro?" Hapi asked.
"Well…it is…" Kaibara said as they saw two shadows flying right past the ship.
"What was that?!" Noel asked.
"Probably just a pair of birds." Ragna said.
"They don't look like birds." Tails said showing images of two draconic looking Pokémon flying through the air before disappearing over a cliff.
"What in the world? What were those…" Zacian said.
"Hmm…no data on either of them. Probably two undiscovered species of Pokémon." Twilight said.
"Those two look quite stylish, though…" David said.
"We'll have to check it out after we find a good place to land. We're supposed to meet up with our friends after all." Dan said.
"Hope, are you sure you got in contact with Siege and Richard?" Adora asked.
"Yeah, I swung over to their dimension and told them about the tournament. I even invited someone we ventured through Hisui with to come with us through Paldea." Hope said. "They were right behind me as I came back…"
"I'm sure they'll be here soon. While we wait…" Jexi said as they looked to Mark.
"Yeah… Gotta wake up Sleeping Beauty over here." Francisca said.
"I got this." Eddy assured the others as he pulled out a bugle horn. "Cover your ears."
The others did so before Eddy took a deep breath and blew it directly in Mark's face.
"ARE WE AT PALDEA?!" Mark yelled as he woke up. "Uh, I mean…are we at Paldea?"
"We're flying over it right now." Jet said.
"Seriously Mark, you gotta get a grip on your excitement." Glimmer said. "I know having a kid sister's great and all, but you really didn't need to get all excited and try to rush us to get here."
"Hehehe… sorry, guys." Mark said sheepishly. "I just got so excited from the good news from home. I think I've worked it out, so I'm good."
"Glad to hear it. So, you're entering the tournament after all. And I know why you want to. You wanna give your little sister the best first impression of you." Hope said.
"And I'm sure you're all about first impressions, huh?" Emo asked.
"Well, you know what they say about them." Mark said.
"Color Gods know that's true, or we wouldn't have some of the connections we do now." David said.
"But before I can even think of joining the tournament…I'll need to form a Perfect Link." Mark said.
"Well, I think you'll definitely be spoiled for choice here." Mayumi said.
"Take a look at Paldea's topography. Is this region ginormous or what?!" Entrapta said, showing Mark a satellite image of the entire region from the sky.
"Whoa…" Mark said in awe.
"Yeah…it's the perfect and most expansive place to find new Pokémon and forge new friendships." Titanica said.
The ship soon landed in a vast field as they departed the ship.
"Ah, such lush greenery. Isn't it just lovely?" Sectonia asked.
"Quite the sight. And this is only a small bit of Paldea's landscape. Sprawling deserts, giant mountains, crystal clear seas, this place has got everything." Adora said.
"I would agree, a place such as this is magnificent!" Euphoric Constance said from the shade.
"Um… You sure you're gonna be okay here, Constance?" Shuichi asked.
"Yeah, there aren't many places to take in some shade, and we all know you aren't yourself in the sun." Bow mentioned.
"Must you remind me of the one thing I have trouble with?" Euphoric Constance said before stepping out as she was now in her depressed personality.
"Well, you might want to start adapting, because we are gonna be getting a lot of sunlight in this place." David said.
"Very well, please forgive me for my earlier remark just now." Depressed Constance said.
"Already forgotten. Don't worry about it. Trust us, it won't be so bad." David said.
"Truly you are kind, Sir David." Depressed Constance said with a small smile.
"Hehe… Well, people say it's part of my charm." David said. "Now… Where to start?"
"Maybe we should look for those two dragons that flew by us earlier." Makoto said.
"Hmm…I dunno. I mean…" Shun'ei said as water was splashed at him. "What the?" he said as he was splashed with more water. "What the heck is…"
They looked over to a fountain, where a white duckling creature with a large tuft of blue on its head was washing, especially on its couf.
"Uh…" Glimmer said.
"Whoa…" Twilight said.
"Luckily…I just got the Paldea update." Rotomphone said. "Bzzt! Quaxly, the Duckling Pokémon! A Water Type! This Pokémon migrated to Paldea from distant lands long ago. The gel secreted by its feathers repels water and grime."
"You know, it kinda looks like Donald with that water shaped hat on its head." Al said.
"Wak! No way! It does not look like me." Donald said.
"It's like he could be your son." Sora said.
Quaxly was still bathing in the water as it was splashing water on itself. It then noticed the group as it jumped out of the fountain and flew over to them, landing on the ground and presented itself to the group as it brushed up its hairdo.
"Whoa…you really are…" Himiko said, smelling the air a bit before they all saw a strange green cat relaxing in the bed. "Whoa."
"Kitty!" Nuna smiled.
"Bzzt! Sprigatito, the Grass Cat Pokémon! A Grass Type! The sweet scent its body gives off mesmerizes those around it. The scent grows stronger when this Pokémon is in the sun." Rotomphone said.
"You know… She looks kind of cute." David said.
"Here kitty kitty." Nuna said, holding a berry.
Sprigatito came out of the flower bed as it ate the berry just as a fireball zoomed by and roasted a piece of fruit.
"Whoa…" Mark said as they saw a small red croc coming to eat it.
"Bzzt! Fuecoco, the Fire Croc Pokémon! A Fire Type! Its flame sac is small, so energy is always leaking out. This energy is released from the dent atop Fuecoco's head and flickers to and from." Rotomphone said.
Fuecoco munched down on the fruit as it joined Quaxly and Sprigatito to their right. All three of them then looked at the group.
"A Fire Croc, a Grass Cat, and a Water Duckling…. Could these three be…?" Adora started.
"I think you're on the mark, Adora." Simon said. "They're the three Starter Pokémon of Paldea."
A loud cry was soon heard as they hurried to the cliff to see the two dragons on the beach as a few Houndour approached.
"Are those Houndour?" Tsumugi asked.
"Yeah, definitely. It looks like they've got those dragons surrounded." David said.
"And it looks like they're hurt, we should help them out." Hope said.
"Hey! Buzz off!" A woman's voice yelled.
"Yeah! Keep off these two injured guys!" Another woman's voice yelled as a Hisuian Arcanine and an Alpha Lucario jumped into view and roared, sending the two Houndours running as the group watched as a familiar Saiyan woman walked into view, being Rutega, and next to her, the Flame Tribe woman who played a vital role in the Raid of Onigashima, Rinkah, who folded her arms.
"Damn ruffians. Picking on the injured like that." Rinkah scoffed, looking at the dragons. "How you two feelin'?"
"Looks like we didn't have to worry, there's my invitee, and she brought a familiar face!" Hope said going to the edge of the cliff. "Hey, Rutega-!" Hope called before part of the cliff broke off and he fell over down to the beach. "Oh, this is gonna hurt-!"
Hope crashed onto the sand next to the two familiar faces with a thud.
"Hah! Just as graceful as the party you said he crashed!" Rinkah laughed as Rutega snickered.
"Yeah, by the way Hope, you need to get better with using that device." Rutega said. "One minute I was with you, next I nearly get flattened by these two dragons!"
"Yeah, what happened to those two, anyway?" David asked, the rest of the group coming down to join the three. "Last we saw them, they were sinking down past the cliff down to the beach." he said as he started to inspect them. "Hmm… Well, they didn't suffer any external injuries. I think they're gonna be okay."
"My guess, they're hungry and tired." Rutega said, as she and Rinkah looked to see their miserable states. "Rinkah and I were about to get some food for them, well, before those Houndour appeared."
"I think I have the thing." Hope said getting out a large sandwich before breaking it in half as he approached. "Here. I hope you like…"
The two dragons sniffed the food before they munched down on the sandwich halves.
"Whoa! Big eaters, it looks like." Shun'ei said.
"Hah! That's for sure, two fearsome beasts need fearsome appetites!" Rinkah smiled.
After they ate, the two dragons stood up and presented themselves to the groups in their full appearances.
One of the dragons had crimson skin and blue and white plumages along with what looked to be a black wheel in its chest, looking very tough and sturdy. The other was purple and almost metallic with electricity surging through its body.
"Whoa… Badass!" David said as he looked over the purple dragon. "This one looks so cool…!"
"Ohhhhhhh man!" Rutega's eyes sparkled at the crimson dragon as she eyed it all over. "I reaaaally wanna keep you safe now! Don't worry, boy, Rutega will keep you safe!" Rutega smiled as on instinct, she hugged the crimson dragon with the cutest of expressions.
"Heh! I thought you might have a soft spot for something!" Rinkah laughed.
"What!? This is the first chance to hug a crimson dragon in person! I love red and I love dragons! He's perfect!" Rutega smiled as she had a perfect w expression to go with it.
"Are these two supposed to be Pokémon? I don't believe we've seen Dragon-types like these guys before." Entrapta said.
"Well, why not check your little Poke… Dex… Whatever those tech encyclopedia things are." Rinkah suggested.
"Well…maybe they're Legendary Pokémon?" Mark suggested. "We do seem to have a knack for attracting Legendary Pokémon."
"They don't even show up in the Pokédex." Twilight said.
"Maybe they're not native. I'll go talk with them." Chopper said as he came down to them. "Uh…excuse me…could you…" he said as they chatted a bit. "Oh…I see. They say they aren't sure how they got to this region. As for names…the red one is Koraidon and the blue one is Miraidon."
"Miraidon, huh? That's an awesome name for a Pokemon like you." David said.
"Koraidon… badass~" Rutega said, still in the bliss of hugging a crimson dragon.
"Gods, she's obsessed with it. We'll never get her detached from it." Rinkah laughed.
"Well, I have an affinity for cats, so… I guess I can relate. No offense, Zacian." David said.
"None taken." Zacian said, getting a bit of a laugh himself. "Still… You look really good with Miraidon there. Might be because of the fact that you're… Well, a biker back home."
"Yeah… I'm definitely getting some Fist of the North Star vibes with this thing." David said.
"Ohhh, you too? So we both saw the wheels then!" Rutega said, looking at Miraidon and Koraidon both.
"Motorcycle Dragons! How cool is that?!" Rainbow Dash-2 asked in amazement.
"Gotta admit Rutega, I'm starting to like the look of that dragon and you together." Rinkah had to admit with folded arms as Rutega beamed.
"I wanna keep it~" She smiled widely.
"Uh, shouldn't we see about getting these two outta this ravine first?" Bow recommended.
"Oh, right. We should get them out of here before more of those Houndour come back." Tsumugi said.
"Well pal, we already searched that." Rinkah admitted. "And the only way up that we found was through that cave those Houndour ruffians came through. I doubt it'll be easy passing through there." Rinkah said. "But unless you guys have super strong and long ropes to hoist us all up… yeah, that's our only route."
"We might have a few ideas." David said.
"Well, let's hear them! I wanna get this guy to safety!" Rutega exclaimed.
"Would you stop obsessing over that dragon for a few minutes and take this seriously!?" Rinkah asked.
"I am serious! He needs to get out! So does Miraidon!" Rutega exclaimed.
"Siiiigh. Sure. We'll go with that." Rinkah deadpanned.
"Revali, Teba, see if you can find anything up there that can hoist us up." David said.
"Uh…guys…we might wanna hurry too." Chopper said as they saw the Houndour pack returning with their Houndoom leader.
"Oh this is not good. Not even we can take on this many." David said.
"Hey, you two are legendaries, aren't you?" Frosta asked Koraidon and Miraidon. "Help us fight!"
"Frosta, they're still not at full strength, I'm not sure they'll be able to jump in." Hope said.
Koraidon and Miraidon both got to their feet and assumed standing positions before grabbing the ones at the beach and leaping onto the cliff with them.
"Or… that works." Hope said.
"Alright. Now for the rest of us to bolt too." David said.
The group then escaped the pack's territory as they were out of sight for both Houndour and Houndoom to follow. After which, both dragons were drained as they sank to all fours again.
"Yikes… That escape must have used up the last of their energy." Shun'ei said.
"Don't worry guys, we've got your backs." Mark assured the two Dragon-type Pokémon. "Well, not even an hour in Paldea and we've already discovered two new Pokémon. I'd say we're off to a good start."
"I think you mean five. Where'd our plucky starter trio go?" Hope asked.
"Pretty sure they're in the same places we left them." Shun'ei said.
"Or…they could have been following us." Scarlet said, pointing to the three starters who were approaching them.
"Oh, there you guys are! Did you follow us all the way from the Galaxy King?" Scorpia asked.
Quaxly, Sprigatito and Fuecoco all agreed with the question, before the water duck Pokémon stood in front of them and started conversing with Chopper.
"Chopper, what's Quaxly saying?" Scarlet asked.
"He says the three of them were impressed by what happened. They wanted to know if they can join us." Chopper said.
"I guess we know what this means. They're becoming somebody's Pokémon partners." Mermista said. "Okay, who gets the first pick?"
"Ladies first." Shun'ei said, motioning to Himiko.
"Nyeh… me, a trainer? Well, I'm gonna go with… Sprigatito." Himiko said.
Sprigatito meowed in delight at being picked first and jumped to Himiko's shoulders, nuzzling her face in affection.
"I think she's a great choice, Himiko." Tenko said.
"Okay…in that case…it won't likely be a link…but I'll take Fuecoco." Mark said.
The Fire Croc Pokémon nodded at the statement as he waddled over to Mark's side.
"Guess that leaves me with you, little guy." Shun'ei said to Quaxly.
Quaxly flapped up to Shun'ei's shoulders and sat down on his arm as he fixed up his crest.
"Could be a good match with your Water Spectre, Monsieur Shun'ei." Ash said.
"Well, now that we've made our choices, we should start looking for what to do next." Double D said. "I recommend we find ourselves a guide or a landmark to center ourselves."
"How about…we head there." Luffy said, pointing to the giant city up ahead.
"Whoa… That place looks very lively." David said. "We need to get Koraidon and Miraidon checked out somewhere anyway."
"Oh yeah, Pull up to a Pokémon center with two Motorcycle dragons. Like that's not gonna be weird." Mermista said.
"In that case, we should put them inside some Pokéballs so that they don't attract attention." Hope said.
"Two Legendaries in Pokéballs, just like that? Yeah… I don't see that happening." David said.
"David's right, we can't just do it right off the bat. We'll just have to cross that bridge when we come to it." Mark said.
"Yeah… until then, guess you get some time with Koraidon, Rutega." Rinkah smiled.
"Yeeeey!" Rutega squealed like a little girl.
"Well, as long as Miraidon doesn't mind being around me." David said.
"He seems fond of you, Iceman." Hapi said.
"Alright then, let's make our way to civilization. According to the map, the city we're going to is called Mesagoza. It's the largest city in the region and…oh, it even has a Pokémon Academy! Two of them!" Twilight read.
"Huh. I guess they take pride in training up young Pokémon Trainers. Commendable. Like a soldier's academy raising new recruits." Rinkah poorly compared.
"Not quite sure that analogy works." Rutega said as Koraidon sweat dropped as if enacting Rutega's current mood to the sentence.
"Well, what else do I have to go off of?" Rinkah asked.
"Well, there are a lot of other prestigious academies out there." David said. "But why two in the same place? That's quite strange."
"Mmm… perhaps they're rival academies. Similar to Hoshido's rivalry with Nohr." Rinkah pondered. "...No, I don't mean us at war, I mean our smaller rivalries."
"Or maybe even Garreg Mach." Dorothea said.
"Anyway. This city seems like our best bet right now. So I say we get started and make our way." David said.
"Sounds like a plan." Mark nodded. "Let's roll!"
"Is it such a good idea to take Koraidon and Miraidon straight to the city though? Isn't there a safer spot that me and David could stay with them until a solution is found?" Rutega asked.
"I'm sure it'll be okay. Now let's go." Hope said.
"Yeah, I mean, it's not like anyone here could take them from us if they tried." Mark said.
"Ooookaaaay…." Rutega relented.
As the group headed to Mezagoza, the group talked among themselves while the two dragons walked alongside them.
"So, Rutega was the one you invited to travel Paldea with us, huh?" Catra asked Hope.
"Well yeah. She was really amazing in Hisui, so it didn't seem fair to keep her outta the fun." Hope said. "I didn't expect you to come with her though, Rinkah."
"Siege called me up after your comical entrance. After all, I had received Reazah here not long before this all began, and he said it might be a good testing of the bond I feel we share." Rinkah said as she was nuzzled by her Hisuian Arcanine. "Haha! And she's a fiery spirit like me. So, how could we not come along? I hope our fighting spirit roars into many great battles here in Paldea!"
"You're definitely gonna have lots of fun." Hope said.
"I do believe so." Rinkah smiled, sharing a knowing look with David to let him know bygones were bygones.
"Don't worry about it, Rinkah. I understood how you felt back then. Death becomes part of the job in my line of work, too." David said as he rubbed Miraidon's head.
"Water under the bridge, David. I shouldn't have blown up at you. Besides, we were lucky ourselves, just as you guys were, in averting the clutches of death for one of our own. Such is the beauty of life. It takes away, yet when it grants opportunity, you take it at your best convenience." Rinkah smiled. "So, forget everything I said to you back at Onigashima. I merely let my rage speak, instead of how I truly feel on the matter."
"Happens to the best of us, don't worry." David said with a wink.
"Yeah, remind me to tell you two about how he almost lost his cool during our last adventure due to a jerk of a teacher." Mark chuckled. "It was so fun watching that guy break down."
"So, Rutega, how is Koraidon treatin- He's letting you ride him!?" Rinkah asked as Rutega was on top of a walking Koraidon.
"Yeah! Hey, don't worry, I'm using my ki to help keep his energy up. It's a very comfortable ride!" Rutega smiled.
"Hah, are you just begging to take it with us at this point?" Rinkah asked.
"Noooo! ….Uhm… maybe?" Rutega nervously chuckled.
"Second Link confirmed?" Eddy asked Double D.
"Perhaps. Time will tell." Double D said.
"What about you, David? Got used to Miraidon yet?" Leopardmon asked.
"Well, he's certainly not like any of my other motorcycles, but we're managing quite well." David said.
"I dare say Koraidon and Miraidon have found their proper partners." Rinkah smirked. "But again, who can say?"
The group drew close to the gates of Mesagoza, paying little heed to the older boy with a floating Rotom phone near the front.
"Don't get the wrong idea, I'm going. All I'm saying is don't expect me to find them." the boy said. "It's not like they'll just walk up to the city gates and-" he said before he spotted the group, a sight that stole his voice for a moment. "...Dad, I'm going to have to call you back." he said, ending the call and practically running up to the group. "Hey, you all! What are you doing with Koraidon and Miraidon?"
"Sir, if you must know, we found these poor things washed up on a beach both tired and hungry." Rutega said, dismounting Koraidon. "We've been safeguarding them since."
"They're both mine." he said.
"Excuse us?" David asked.
"EEEEEHHHH!?" Rutega exclaimed.
"I have their Pokéballs, so they belong to me right now." he said. "And they were supposed to stay at the lab!" he directed to the two Dragon-type Pokémon.
"Just because you own them doesn't mean you can consider them objects." Hapi said.
"Now just one second buster. If you own them, shouldn't you take better care of them than just being at a damn lab!? That ain't living!" Rinkah exclaimed before seeing Koraidon and Miraidon both looking to the lab. "...Ah…"
"Seems like he's speaking the truth." David said.
"That's your home, isn't it?" Rutega asked Koraidon, who nodded. "Oh, okay boy, I understand." Rutega said, rubbing his head and neck.
David pets Miraidon's head as he got off. "So, you seem to know quite a bit about these two."
"My parents are the researchers looking into these Pokémon. But I'm not telling you anymore than that." he said.
"Alright, just who the hell are you?" A2 asked.
"A2, please. Let's keep this civil." David said.
"As much as I don't like it… David's right…" Rinkah growled.
"Hmm…" the boy said, looking from the two Dragon Pokémon to the group. "These two always go off on their own. It looks like they've taken an interest in you all…but these two can't be handled by just anyone. They're special." he said.
"Ah, so… This kind of stuff happens often, eh?" David sweatdropped.
"Then what do we need to do to prove we can handle them?" Rutega asked.
"Yeah…a battle will settle this." he said drawing a Pokéball. "Beat me and I'll surrender their Pokéballs."
"What do you think, Miraidon? Should we go for it?" David asked, asking for the Pokémon's consent.
"Well, Koraidon? Should we?" Rutega asked Koraidon, looking for the same.
The two dragons nodded in approval.
"Alright. We have their consent. Let's go." David said.
"Right. I'll follow your lead, David." Rutega nodded.
"In that case, let's go, Skwovet!" the young man said, sending out a squirrel-like Pokémon.
"Alright. Let's start with something more this thing's strength. Let's go, Vulpix!" David said, sending out his Vulpix.
"Glad I snatched this thing on the way by! Come on out!" Rutega exclaimed, tossing out a ball as a small orange mouse with large paws came out.
"Whoa…is that another…" Jexi said.
"Bzzt! Pawmi, the Mouse Pokémon! An Electric Type! The pads of its paws are electricity-discharging organs. Pawmi fires electricity from its forepaws while standing unsteadily on its hind legs." Rotomphone said.
"Such an adorable little creature with great power over lightning." Depressed Constance said.
"Hey, I always wanted a Pikachu, this was the next best thing." Rutega shrugged.
"Okay. Let's start this up. Go for a Quick Attack." David said.
"Sync up and time it! Thundershock!" Rutega commanded.
Vulpix and Pawmi both moved together as Vulpix smacked Skwovet with its body, followed by a shocking blast from Pawmi.
"Nice going, Pawmi! Great teamwork!" Rutega complimented.
Skwovet fell to the floor upon the combo.
"Well this is what I get for using a Pokémon I just recently caught. All right. You two win." he said handing over the Pokéballs.
"A true man of your word. Thanks." Rutega smiled, trying to contain her inner girl screams over getting Koraidon.
"Thank you." David said with a respectful bow. "Say… You said your family researches these creatures, right?"
"It doesn't matter right now. I need to just get through classes before the independent study program." he said.
"Classes? Independent Study Program…? Oh! You must be a student here, are you?" David asked.
"Yeah…I am. I'm not big on battles. Cooking's more my speed. Hopefully when the Treasure Hunt starts…I can improve those skills." he said. "But I guess you don't really care about that."
"Well, if you're ever looking for battle tips, feel free to talk to me, I'm more than willing to give pointers." Rutega offered with a smile.
"I see. Sorry about the way we acted a moment ago. We had no idea." David said.
"Yeah, well…these two are with you now, so good luck taking care of them." the boy said. "I better get going."
"Wait, we didn't catch your name." Mark said.
"It's Arven! Remember it!" he said as he hurried off.
"He didn't seem to be in a good mood." Eddy remarked. "Wonder what's bothering him?"
"Well, I hope he accepts my offer if he struggles with battling…" Rutega said in concern, before her little girl inside began coming out as she clutched Koraidon's Pokéball.
"Aaaand here she goes again…" Rinkah chuckled.
"I'm sorry! I just really like crimson dragons and holding his Pokéball feels so surreal right now!" Rutega squealed.
"Well, I hope we get to hear them speak soon." David said.
"Speak?" Rutega questioned. "I thought only gijinkas spoke."
"Oh yeah, some Pokémon are capable of speaking. It's mostly telepathy, but some can learn to do it." David informed her.
"Huh. Neat." Rinkah mused.
"Well, now that that's taken care of, let's head on into the city." Shirou said.
"Yup." Hapi said.
As they headed further in, they saw a few students with biker helmets and star sunglasses approaching a girl with an Eevee backpack.
"Come on. We gotta meet our quota. Admit it…you wanna be part of Team Star." one of them said.
The girl just turned her head.
"What's there to be indecisive about? Join up with us, you won't have to worry about being alone or ignored. Nobody will get in your way of doing what you want!" one of the grunts said.
"Well, that's no way to talk to a lady, especially pressuring her into something she might not want to do." Simon spoke up as he approached, lollipop in hand.
"Huh?" one of the grunts said.
"Excuse us. Does there seem to be a problem here?" Tsumugi asked.
"Hi! If you're looking to join up, give us a sec, we'll get to you!" one of the grunts said.
"Join up? For what?" Rutega asked with a raised eyebrow.
"What, you don't know? We're Team Star!" the grunt said. "We shine so bright, it hurts to look at us!"
"...Never heard of you." Mark said.
"...That sounded so cliché." Rinkah deadpanned.
"As for what you're doing, if she doesn't want any part of your group, then just leave her be." Hope said.
"Oh yeah?" one of the grunts said. "And how are you gonna make us stop, huh?"
"By besting you in a Pokémon battle." Rinkah said sternly.
"Uh… Rinkah?" Rutega asked.
"No worries, I'll go easy on them. They're not even worthy to see my glorious Arcanine." Rinkah stated.
"What'd you say?!" one of the grunts said. "Ugh, I finally get into Team Star, and I still get no respect! We can't let this slide!"
"Tch. If you're so cocky, then send your best! I'll meet it with my own!" Rinkah exclaimed as she pounded her fists. "In times like these, strength determines the victor! So have at thee!"
"You asked for it, lady! Go, Shroodle!" the grunt said, sending out a small black mouse.
"Bzzzt! Shroodle, the Toxic Mouse Pokémon! A Poison and Normal Type! Though usually a mellow Pokémon, it will sink its sharp, poison-soaked front teeth into any that anger it, causing paralysis in the object of its ire." Rotomphone said.
"Hmph. Fletchling, let's go." Rinkah said, sending out a small fire bird.
"Make that jerk see stars! Use Acid Spray!" the grunt called out, Shroodle sending out a spray of poisonous liquid.
"Tch. Burn it to vapor! Ember!" Rinkah exclaimed as Fletchling lobbed a fireball from its beak, evaporating the Acid Spray as the fireball smacked into Shroodle.
"Oh, now you've done it!" the grunt yelled. "Hit that bird with all the Fury Swipes you've got!" the grunt said as the Toxic Mouse jumped towards Fletchling, as Rinkah scoffed.
"Take flight! Avoid his pathetic attempts and Peck at its head!" Rinkah commanded, as Fletchling followed perfectly, fluttering its little wings to evade the claws, and landing on Shroodle's head before pecking like a woodpecker on its head. After a few pecks or so, the Shroodle went down.
"Aw, man! Guess I'm the one who's seeing stars!" the grunt said.
"That wasn't even a good pun!" Rinkah growled as she folded her arms and brought out her Pokéball. "Great fight, Fletchling, you are an honorable and worthy fighter." Rinkah commended Fletchling as it chirped happily before returning to its ball.
"Urk, how's someone like you so good at battling? It's just not right…" the grunt groaned.
"If you came from a lifestyle like mine, perhaps you would understand. Now, I don't think this girl wants to speak with you anymore, so I suggest you leave." Rinkah said as Reazah glared at them, standing at Rinkah's side. "Now."
"Grk…I don't like the looks they're giving us." One of the other grunts said. "Not even the student council president can glare like that…"
"Okay, we'll go! But don't think we'll forget this!" the grunt said as they took off.
Rinkah would soon adopt a gentler look as she approached the girl. "Are you okay? Don't worry. Those grunts are gone." Rinkah reassured the little girl.
"I…uh… I just… Well, thanks." the girl said. "So, uh…see you around." she said before taking off up the steps.
"Mm… Maybe Reazah and I scared her a bit too. That's on me…" Rinkah sighed as Reazah whimpered.
"No, I think she's just a bit shy." Mayumi said.
"You think? That gives me a little reassurance." Rinkah huffed.
"Still, when did you catch a Fletchling, Rinkah?" Rutega asked.
"Oh, I caught it on the way. It was flying over my head so I tested my aiming abilities. Seems I can still aim my throws very well." Rinkah smiled.
"Still, who were those guys with the goofy glasses?" Kaibara asked.
"They said something about 'Team Star?'" Rutega asked.
"Ah, I get it. The obligatory regional evil team." Emo said.
"So what you're saying is 'insert 50th rendition of Team Rocket here.'" Rutega mused.
"They don't even look the part, honestly. They look more like rebellious punks." Hope said.
"Yeah, they don't really seem all that evil to me. Did you notice they had uniforms?" David asked.
"I think I've heard of them." Twilight said. "They're rebel students who rarely attend the academy. They have groups all over the region."
"Seems like every school has a group like this." David said. "Guess that's what makes them relatable."
"Still, we should look out for them." Hope said. "Could get in our way."
"Say, do you guys wanna check out the academies while we're here, or explore the city?" Hope asked.
"Hmm… I think I might take time just to explore the region." Rinkah mused. "I do believe I need some good relaxing time… somewhere besides a city. No offense."
"Hey, you're all good! I don't expect you'll find many issues, I mean, you have Reazah." Rutega smiled.
"Indeed." Rinkah beamed.
"You don't wanna stick around to find out what we're gonna do in this region?" Hope asked.
"Oh? You had plans to explore the region as well? Hm. Very well. I can manage this for a bit longer I suppose." Rinkah said.
"Uh…" Hope said.
"Hmm…there's a Pokémon League in this region right?" Shun'ei asked.
"Yeah. Eight gyms, an assessment to getting the title…it's similar to all the other regions." Twilight said.
"Now that sounds interesting…" Rinkah pondered.
"Well… With one exception." David said.
"Eh?" Rinkah inquired.
"According to the directory, there doesn't seem to be a pre-determined course. Trainers partaking in the Gym Challenge will be free to face the Gyms in any order they want." David said.
"That's very intriguing. Almost seems like it's set up for many trainers to take the challenge in a race format perhaps." Rinkah mused.
"Hey! Did I hear you guys say you'll be doing the gym challenge?!" a familiar voice asked as Arven came running up.
"Yeah, why?" Hope asked.
"You'll have no time at all for that, trust me." Arven said. "You'll all be too busy helping me with my Treasure Hunt project."
"Uh, what is it you're after exactly?" Glimmer asked.
"The Herba Mystica…herbs that will make the best dishes in all of Paldea." Arven said. "However, they're guarded by five fierce titan Pokémon and I'm no good at battles."
"That also sounds interesting…" Rinkah said as she felt herself at a crossroads.
"Titan Pokémon and herbs, huh….?" Himiko asked.
"Okay, so we've got two options while we explore Paldea, no biggie." Mermista said.
"Hm. I doubt that." Rutega stated.
"Eh? What do you mean?" Rinkah asked.
"I feel like our third option should revolve on keeping tabs on Team Star. I don't like those guys one bit… they may not seem evil but… I can't shake the feeling there's something behind the scenes here. Maybe it's just me but… can we really be too sure?" Rutega asked.
"Rutega's right. We chased off some of their grunts, but will they really leave us alone? We gotta take them out at the source!" Glimmer said. "They have bases of operations all over the region, right? We should raid them and take out their leaders!
"...You know what? Screw it, let's do it! I'm all about that vigilante life!" Mark said.
"Yeah! Let's kick ass like Saiyans are known for, Mark!" Rutega smiled.
"Hold on a second! You can't just have yourselves be swamped with everything! Team Star, the Gym Challenge, or my Treasure Hunt! Pick one!" Arven said.
"He's right… and I can't pick one. They all sound good." Rinkah growled.
"...How about we do all three at the same time?" Hope spoke up.
"Huh!? How can we be in three places at once!?" Rutega exclaimed.
"We can split up and keep tabs on each other's progress." David said.
"...Mm. And I think I've decided myself." Rinkah said as she looked to Shun'ei. "You're taking the Gym Challenge, are you not?" Rinkah asked Shun'ei.
"Yep. Sure am." Shun'ei said. "You don't mind being my support, right Meiten?"
"Of course not, Shun! You know I'm always there for you." Meitenkun said.
"Then you must be properly ready for the Challenge. I may not be partaking, but I can ensure you're prepared for battles to come." Rinkah said. "I'll be traveling the region and occasionally helping the other teams. But I'll be building and strengthening my team. Shun'ei! From this day onwards, we are rivals in strength! Should you become the Champion, know that I will become your first challenger!"
"Heh. I'll be looking forward to seeing you in action." Shun'ei said.
"Rinkah has the right idea, though. We might need to build our teams up for the tournament too." David said.
"Nothing wrong with doing that as we accompany you guys on our desired routes." Hope said. "So let's decide where we'll all go."
"I'm with Mark in taking on Team Star." Rutega declared.
"You all heard what I will do." Rinkah stated. "I'm going to be traveling in between you all, building and strengthening my team to give aid or to test Shun'ei's might."
"So then, if the guy with the headphones is taking the Gym Challenge, the other tan girl is her rival of sorts, and the one eager to fight is going off on a run against Team Star…." Arven thought aloud. "That leaves only one other person with me finding the Herba Mystica."
"I will help. Only cause this may help me improve my magic and even find Pokémon to help with my shows." Himiko said.
"Alright, I'll take it!" Arven agreed.
And so the three paths were set. A trail to Victory Road, a Path of Legends, and a trip down Starfall Street. What will these groups find at the end of these paths? Well…only time can truly tell.