Chapter 24

With our friends busy preparing for the upcoming exams, Serena, Golly, and I set out for Levincia's East Province Area 3. Along the way, we spot some tumbleweed Pokemon rolling past us.

Golly eagerly points them out, saying, "You have to catch this one. It's a Ghost Type Pokemon known as Bramblin!"

I chuckle at Golly's fascination with Ghost Types and playfully tease, "Of course, your obsession with Ghost Types. I wonder if Gina corrupted you to be like that..."

With a grin, I prepare to capture the Bramblin Pokemon, calling upon the assistance of my trusty Zoroark.

Bramblin: The Tumbleweed Pokémon: Grass and Ghost Type. A soul unable to move on to the afterlife was blown around by the wind until it got tangled up with dried grass and became a Pokémon.

"That description is indeed quite unsettling," Serena remarks. "The idea of a soul unable to move on to the afterlife is truly horrifying."

I nod in agreement and add, "It's not just Bramblin; many Ghost Type Pokemon have similarly eerie descriptions. Honedge and Yamask come to mind."

Golly chimes in, excited to share more information, "And check out its ability, Wind Rider. It boosts the Pokémon's Attack stat if Tailwind takes effect or if the Pokémon is hit by a wind move. Plus, the Pokémon takes no damage from wind moves."

Serena questions, "How many wind moves are there, though? I recall that Kilowattrel has a similar ability..."

I respond, "Most of the wind moves are related to Flying Types, which makes this ability even more interesting."

As we continue our journey, running with the Bramblin Pokemon for over 1000 steps and leveling it up, we witness its evolution into a larger and more formidable Tumbleweed Pokemon.

Brambleghast: The Tumbleweed Pokémon: Grass and Ghost Type. Evolve from Bramblin when leveled up while outside of its Poké Ball after walking 1000 steps using the Let's Go feature. It will open the branches of its head to envelop its prey. Once it absorbs all the life energy it needs, it expels the prey and discards it.

Golly expresses her bewilderment, saying, "What's with Ghost Type Pokemon liking to suck other Pokemon's life force?" She adds a sweatdrop to emphasize her confusion.

I join in the pondering, sighing, "I don't know... Professor Jacq really is full of imagination."

Serena chimes in, sharing our sense of wonder, "And what's with the abundance of Ghost and Grass Type Pokemon? We already have Trevenant, Gourgeist, Decidueye, and Dhelmise."

I respond with a shrug, "Who knows..."

As we continue our journey, we come across a peculiar Steel-type Pokemon that moves around with just one wheel. Serena points it out, saying, "There it is... so that's what a single Varoom looks like."

I recall the Starmobiles from Team Star that used these Pokemon as wheels and agree, "Yeah, we did see those Starmobiles having them as wheels. Let's capture one!" We prepare to capture the unique Varoom to add to our team.

Varoom: Single-Cyl Pokémon: Steel and Poison Type. It is said that this Pokémon was born when an unknown poison Pokémon entered and inspirited an engine left at a scrap-processing factory.

Serena and I take a moment to discuss the unique move Spin Out that Varoom and its evolution line can use. I explain, "And this is the only evolution line that can use the move Spin Out... The user spins furiously by straining its legs, inflicting damage on the target. This also harshly lowers the user's Speed stat."

Serena adds her observations, "Team Star uses this move a lot of times to damage us, but to think that it actually has 100 power but only 5 PP. No wonder it's considered one of the strong Steel Type moves."

Exploring the area further, we come across some caves and decide to investigate them. Inside the caves, we discover crystal-plant-like Pokemon that belong to the Rock Type. Their unique appearance and type pique our interest, and we carefully captre one as we continue our journey through the caves.

Glimmet: The Ore Pokemon: Rock and Poison Type. Glimmet's toxic mineral crystals look just like flower petals. This Pokémon scatters poisonous powder like pollen to protect itself.

We encounter the Rock and Poison Type crystal-plant-like Pokemon in the caves, and Serena shivers slightly at the combination of types. I empathize, saying, "I know... it's reminiscent of Nihilegeo. But it has the ability Toxic Debris, which scatters poison spikes at the feet of the opposing team when the Pokémon takes damage from physical moves."

Golly chimes in with a practical observation, "That ability might come in handy during battles. It could save us the trouble of setting up Toxic Spikes ourselves."

As we continue our training, our Shroodle evolves into a monkey-like Pokemon with a paintbrush-like tail.

Grafaiai: Toxic Monkey Pokémon: Poison and Normal Type. Evolve from Shroodle at LV:28. The color of the poisonous saliva depends on what the Pokémon eats. Grafaiai covers its fingers in its saliva and draws patterns on trees in forests.

Serena comments, "So it has a new move called Doodle... The user captures the very essence of the target in a sketch. This changes the Abilities of the user and its ally Pokémon to that of the target."

We all find this ability fascinating, but Serena humorously warns, "That sure is interesting. But we better be careful not to let this Pokemon doodle our dorms." We share a chuckle at the idea of Grafaiai redecorating our living spaces.

As the three of us arrive in the town of Zapapico, we decide to purchase armor for our Charcadets to enhance their abilities.

Golly checks the store's offerings and says, "Let's see... So we need 10 Bronzor Fragments for the Auspicious Armor, and then 10 Sinistea Fragments for the Malicious Armor."

I contribute to our plan, saying confidently, "Good thing I have both Bronzong and Polteageist in my team. I'm sure they can provide us with the fragments we need."

After asking them to drop 10 fragments each, we trade with the seller and obtain the two armors we were seeking. With the armors in hand, we evolve our Charcadet into Armarogue and Ceruledge, further enhancing their capabilities for future battles and adventures.

Armarogue: The Fire Warrior Pokémon: Fire and Psychic Type. Evolve from Charcadet with Auspicious Armor. Armarouge evolved through the use of a set of armor that belonged to a distinguished warrior. This Pokémon is incredibly loyal.

Ceruledge: The Fire Blades Pokemon: Fire and Ghost Type. Evolve from Charcadet with Malicious Armor. The fiery blades on its arms burn fiercely with the lingering resentment of a sword wielder who fell before accomplishing their goal.

We discuss the newly acquired moves for Armarogue and Ceruledge. Serena notes, "Armarogue's Armor Cannon is basically a Fire Type Close Combat, and Ceruledge's Bitter Blade is a Fire Type Giga Drain... that's interesting."

I agree, saying, "Yeah, and I think we should use these two for the next Titan, don't you think?"

Golly joins in, stating, "Since it is a Steel Type, Fire Types will definitely do well in this battle." We nod in agreement, strategizing for our next Titan encounter with our newly evolved Charcadet forms and their powerful Fire Type moves.

We receive a call from Arvin, who informs us, "Yo! Ash, Serena, and Golly! So somewhere in one of the mines that're around here, we should find the Lurking Steel Titan. Rumor has it that the thing's staggeringly huge and reeeeaaal long! You'd think a Pokemon like that would be easy to spot. I wonder how it stays hidden... Maybe it's super fast? If that's the case, riding that Pokemon of yours might help you catch up."

I consider Arvin's suggestion and remark, "So, we'll need to use Koraidon and Miraidon to catch this Titan Pokemon... but I wonder what kind of Totem Pokemon they will be."

Golly, intrigued by the idea, adds, "Since it's a Steel Type, I wonder what it will look like..." We share our curiosity about the upcoming encounter and prepare ourselves to face the enigmatic Lurking Steel Titan in the mines.

"Miners working in Area Three of the East Province say something huge burrowing under the ground is the cause of frequent landslides. Whispers abound whether it could be a Titan."

As we read the Rotom Phone's description of miners in Area Three of the East Province reporting something huge burrowing under the ground, we shiver at the eerie possibility that it could be a Titan.

Suddenly, the ground in front of us starts to break, and a massive head pops up, startling Serena, Golly, and me. I exclaim, "What the... what was that?"

Golly identifies the creature, saying, "That's an Orthworm! But look at that size! So that's the Titan?"

The Orthworm seems to notice our presence and quickly burrows underground. Golly urges it to wait, saying, "Hey, wait!"

We give chase to the massive worm Pokemon, but it proves to be elusive, continuously diving underground and resurfacing in different locations, making it challenging for us to catch up.

Serena calls out, "Hey! Get back here! Don't just run away from us!"

I remind everyone, "Arvin said that we should use Koraidon and Miraidon to chase after it." We all ride on our Pokemon and pursue the Titan, attempting to get closer. After a few attempts, the Titan's body suddenly emerges from the ground, revealing its incredible length.

We gasp in awe at the sight, and then six blue tendrils appear along its side. Serena quickly seeks shelter behind me, and I react decisively, saying, "Serena! Now we should battle!" I release Armarogue, Ceruledge, and Golurk to engage in battle.

Armarogue launches a Flamethrower, which is super effective against the Titan, but the Orthworm counters with a Sandstorm, creating challenging conditions for our battle by reducing visibility.

We're in for a surprise when Golly commands Golurk to use High Horsepower, but Orthworm simply swallows the move and doesn't take any damage. To our shock, it recovers the damage it absorbed with Flamethrower.

Confused, I ask, "What is going on?" Serena quickly checks the Pokedex and informs us, "Ash! Orthworm's ability is Earth Eater! Instead of taking damage, it recovers HP when hit by a Ground Type Move!"

I react urgently, saying, "You've got to be kidding me! Golly, let's avoid using any Ground-type moves!"

Golly acknowledges my instructions and has Golurk use Dynamic Punch. Cereludge follows up with Bitter Blade, dealing substantial damage to Orthworm while also benefiting from the Sandstorm. However, when Orthworm retaliates with a Headbutt, it slams Armarogue into the wall.

I encourage Armarogue, shouting, "Hang in there! Use Mystical Fire!" Armarogue manages to recover and delivers a powerful blow with Mystical Fire. Despite our efforts, Orthworm eventually turns and retreats into a hole, disappearing from sight.

Serena shouts, "Hey! Don't just get away!"

We follow the giant Orthworm into the tunnel it creates, frustrated by its evasive tactics. It seems to be playing a game of hide-and-seek as it pops up and down, resembling a whack-a-Diglett game. After successfully catching it three times, the Titan suddenly breaks open the hole again and begins devouring a Herba Mystica.

Golly questions, "Wait, was that the Herba Mystica?"

Serena expresses her concern, muttering, "It's eating it... this is bad..." We watch anxiously as the Titan consumes the Herba Mystica, uncertain of the consequences it might bring.

Arven arrives at our location and asks, "Ash, Serena, Golly! You managed to pin down the Titan?!"

I nod and point at the Orthworm, replying, "It's over there."

Arven observes the massive creature and comments, "THAT's the Lurking Steel Titan?! It's, uh... well, it sure is long! I think our little friend might be even feistier now, after eating those herbs! We're gonna need to do this together!"

He releases his Toedscool and declares confidently, "Doesn't matter how big an opponent is! Victory's gonna taste so good seasoned by my Toedscool!" We prepare for a combined effort to take on the Lurking Steel Titan.

We engage in the battle with the Lurking Steel Titan, and I shout a warning, "Just watch out for the Iron Tail!" Ceruledge skillfully evades the incoming attack. Serena and I simultaneously activate our Tera Orbs, changing our moves to Fire Type. We continue our relentless assault on the Orthworm until it manages to wrap itself around Ceruledge.

"Damn it! I forgot that Ceruledge is not a Ghost Type anymore!" I mutter in frustration.

Arven takes charge, saying, "Leave this to me. Toedscool, Giga Drain!" Toedscool's move absorbs some of the Titan's health, allowing Ceruledge to break free. Serena seizes the opportunity and directs Armarogue to use Armor Cannon, ultimately defeating the Titan.

With the Titan defeated, I promptly use a Pokeball to capture it, ensuring it doesn't escape.

Orthworm: The Earthworm Pokemon: Steel Type. When attacked, this Pokémon will wield the tendrils on its body like fists and pelt the opponent with a storm of punches.

"We did it, guys! Way to go!" Arven gives a thumbs up, clearly excited about our victory. "Did you get a good look at its face, though? I didn't expect a Titan to be such a li'l cutie."

"Yeah, it was quite cute, that's when it didn't show the tendrils..." Serena mutters with a slight shiver.

"I bet if we go in here, we'll find more of that Herba Mystica it ate before," I suggest, and we all head inside the cave in search of the Herba Mystica.

"I knew it! I spy Herba Mystica!" Arven cheers as he spots the white plants in the area.

I decide to taste it and grimace, "Damn... it is salty..."

Serena raises a valid concern, asking, "Are you sure that this one doesn't have Nacli crawling over them?"

Arven seems unfazed by our reactions and declares, "Another successful search! We're on a roll!" He consults his book for information and shares, "Well, apparently Salty Herba Mystica helps with aching hands and feet. Good for neuropathy and numbness. When you've got muscle weakness, it supposedly builds up strength again!"

After closing the book, he smiles and says, "This'll definitely help Mabosstiff feel even better!"

"I'm glad," I respond happily. "Let's gather some and make some food now." We proceed to collect the Salty Herba Mystica for future use and also make our sandwiches.

Arven presents us with the sandwiches he made and a special Titan Badge as a token of our successful encounter with the Lurking Steel Titan. As we accept the badge, he mentions, "Here you go: another of your favorite ol' Arven sandwiches! And it comes with a special Titan Badge! The Pokémon League might not recognize it, but I hope you appreciate it all the same!"

We now have 8 badges in our collection, but as Arven mentioned, the League recognizes only 3 of them. We still have a long way to go to collect all 18 needed for the Pokémon League challenge. While we enjoy our sandwiches, Rotom takes a picture to commemorate the moment.

It seems like Koraidon and Miraidon are eager to enjoy the sandwiches, prompting Arven to comment, "Figured this might happen. Don't worry - I made extra this time for that brute of yours." He gives the extra sandwiches to our two Titan Pokemon, and as they eat, they once again glow with a mysterious energy, indicating that they have gained special powers.

"That's it. Small bites, small bites..." Arven also feeds some of the sandwich to Mabosstiff, but he seems frustrated when he sees how quickly Koraidon and Miraidon devour their portions. "C'mon... At least bother to taste it before you swallow it right down, would you?" Arven grumbles.

Golly raises a valid point, "Well, I don't know if they have the same taste buds as ours..."

Arven contemplates the situation and remarks, "These brutes seem to be benefiting from the herbs too, I guess - in its own sorta way. Oh yeah! 'Fore I forget... Take another look at this."

He then opens the book again and shares, "There's always a Titan Pokemon near the Herba Mystica when we find 'em, right? Like the book says, it's not like big ol' Pokemon just happen to like these herbs. It's actually something in the herbs that are making the Titans so big and strong."

After closing the book, he ponders further, "So does that mean a Titan's 'lair' isn't really some kind of treasure hoard or whatever? It's just a pantry where the Titan keeps its food?"

Serena chimes in, "Maybe... Or perhaps the Titans are attracted to the Herba Mystica and choose to reside nearby for easy access to their favorite snacks."

Arven turns to Mabosstiff after it finishes the sandwich and asks, "Oh, you done with your sandwich, Mabosstiff?"

To everyone's surprise, Mabosstiff lets out a slow, deliberate bark, confirming that it indeed made a sound.

"You... you heard that, right?" Arven exclaims with amazement. "Mabosstiff just woofed! Right?"

Golly inquires, "Is that a problem?"

Overjoyed, Arven wipes away a tear and continues, "I'm not imagining things! Oh, Mabosstiff! Who's my best bud, huh? Who's the best of boys? You are, yes, you are!"

Concerned, I ask, "Are you okay?"

Arven, still elated, explains, "It's... it's been so long since I heard that woof! Mabosstiff is definitely getting better! Ever since I teamed up with you guys, good things keep happening!"

I nod and say, "But we've still got two more herbs to go. Hope you'll stick it out until we're done!"

As we exit the cave and head back to continue our journey, we're reminded of the upcoming Mid-Term exam we need to prepare for.

With our Titan encounter behind us and the newfound abilities of Koraidon and Miraidon, we receive a call from Professor Sada. "Hello, Ash and Lillie. This is Sada. I detect that Koraidon and Miraidon have regained more of their original power. While you're riding upon it, it can now jump higher."

"That's it?" I question with a hint of disappointment.

Sada reassures us, "Please continue to take good care of Koraidon and Miraidon."

As we head back to the academy, we can't help but wonder how our friends Drandon, Lucine, and Luke are faring with their studies under Nemona's guidance. Golly chuckles, "Those two fail the answers that Nemona asked us the day before."

Serena expresses concern, saying, "Yeah...I hope that it will be fine for them."

With the Mid-Term exam looming, we return to the academy to continue our preparations and join our friends in their studies.

And here is the third Titan battle, and both Ash and Serena get 8 badges in total and there are 10 more. The next chapter will be the mid-term exams, and I hope you like this chapter.

Ash and Serena's Pokemon:

Charizard x2, Pikachu x2, Primeape, Tauros (Paldean) x3, Lapras, Girafarig, Dunsparce, Steelix (Crystal), Sceptile, Gardevoir (Shiny), Garchomp, Lucario, Krookodile, Zoroark, Bisharp, Greninja, Sylveon, Noivern, Lycanroc (Dusk), Mimikyu (Shiny), Corviknight, Indeedee x2, Kleavor, Sneasler, Floragato, Crocalor, Quaxwell, Oinkologne x2 (Male/Female), Spidops, Lokix, Pawmot, Maushold x2 (Family of four/three), Dachsbun, Dolliv, Squawkabilly x4, Naclstack, Armarouge, Ceruledge, Bellibolt, Kilowattrel, Maschiff, Grafaiai, Brambleghast, Toedscool, Klawf, Scovillain, Flittle, Tinkatuff, Wugtrio, Bombirdier, Finizen, Varoom, Cyclizar, Orthworm, Glimmet, Flamigo, Clodsire