(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Kieran's Theme)
An old man humming to himself as he water the plants. He was too busy to notice Koraidon landed in front of the streets of their house.
"Woooow! That was awesome!" Kieran exclaimed.
"I know, right?" Florian chuckled.
"Hm? Kieran, is that you?" The Old man asked as he approached the entrance and see Koraidon. "Oh!"
"Grandpa, I'm home!" Kieran hop off and waved as Florian dismount and recalled Koraidon.
"Welcome back, Kieran. And who's this with you?"
"This is Florian. He's part of the same school trip as me and Sis." Kieran answered until he click. "Wait... where's Renne?"
"Oh she'll be—" Florian said as Miraidon landed in front of the entrance, hop off and recalled by Renne as she approached. "There she is."
"And who's this lovely lady?" The old man asked
"This is Renne. She's also part of the same school trip."
"Oho! So these are your new friends, Kieran?"
"We sure are!" Florian smiled.
"What?!" Kieran blinked. "R-Really?! We're friends?"
"You actually didn't believe we're your friends now?" Renne asked as she fake a sad look but convincing enough. "Now I'm hurt. And here I thought our battle, including all the talking and journey, would make us friends. To think I was wrong..."
"W-W-Wait! I didn't mean to hurt your feelings! I-I...!" Kieran shuddered
"Renne, don't tease the poor guy." Florian gave her a 'stop teasing him' look, causing her to chuckle. "Of course, we're friends, Kieran. Why wouldn't we be?"
Kieran then smiled and scratch his hair sheepishly. "I feel all tingly and funny hearing that... Ehehe..."
The old man laughed. "Thank you for befriending our Kieran, Florian and Renne."
"Oh?" An elderly woman approached. "Kieran's made some friends?"
"Y...Yeah!" Kieran nodded. "This is Florian and this is Renne. This is my grandma you guys."
"Heya!" Florian wave his arms with a smile as Renne greeted with her curtsy.
"It's a pleasure to meet you." Renne greeted
"Well, fancy that!" Kieran and Carmine's Grandma smiled. "Two lovely friends of Kieran! We're delighted to have you two. Florian and Renne, was it? What lovely names." She smiled until they heard fireworks.
"Oh, my, is it really sundown already?" The Grandpa asked
"Goodness me, I'd nearly forgotten. The Festival of Masks starts tonight, doesn't it?" The Grandma turn to Florian, Renne and Kieran. "Come now, Kieran. You too, Florian, Renne. I'll get out some jinbei for you both so you can go to the festival all gessied up."
"Really? You would do that for us?" Renne asked
"Of course! There's no need to trouble yourself."
"Aww, thank you Kieran and Carmine's grandmother." Florian smiled.
"Not just that either, we'll also have to do up your hair too!"
"Our hair as well?" Renne asked.
"Oh wait a moment! I just realize something. We haven't introduced our names, haven't we?" The grandma asked
"Oh you're right! My goodness, my age really is gettin' better of me. Forgive my lack of manners." The grandpa cough his throat. "My name is Yukito. And this is my wife, Kideko."
"A pleasure." Kideko smiled. "Now come. I know the perfect style for reach of you. Hoho! Come along~ Come along."
One dress-up later...
"Duh daaa~" Hideko cheered with jazz hands as Florian is wearing a green jinbei outfit. He wears eastern sandles and his hairstyle is his front bang is tired to his hair in a knot. (Yeah, I don't know the name of the hairstyle so if any of you know, mind giving me a helping hand?)
"Whooa." Florian look at the mirror. "Wow, don't I look like a handsome devil?"
"Ohohoh! Handsome is a fine way to describe it."
"Woooow..." Kieran said in surprise as he blushed in his Jinbei outfit.
"Not bad, Florian." Renne clapped as she wore her purple jinbei outfit but her hairstyle was a side-curled updo.
"It suits you mighty fine. Just as I thought it would!" Kideko chuckled.
"Goodness, it's like I've gained another grandson and granddaughter! Hoho!" Yukito chuckled
"I imagine a stylish young thing like yourselves could make good use of this too." Kideko handed Floriana nd Renne a Teal Style Card. "Having that card should open up all sorts of new looks for you at the big-city shops and salons.
"Hey gran." Carmine step out of the house. "D'you know where my—" Then she see Florian and Renne. "Gah! What're YOU two doing here?"
"That's a fine greeting Carmine." Renne giggled.
"Florian and Renne said... they'd go to the Festival of Masks with me." Kieran explained
"Oh, really? Is that so..." Carmine sighed
"What's it matter anyway! What're YOU doin' back here?!"
"Oh, right. Gran, I couldn't find my mask for the festival."
"Oh, the masks? They should be in the shed. I put them there after last year's festival." Yukito answered. "It shouldn't be locked. so you four can go have a rummage and see what you find."
"All right!" Carmine run to the shead. "First one there wins!"
"Wait—Sis! You're such a cheater!" Kieran yelled and ran after.
Yukito sighed. "Please forgive those two, Florian, Renne. They can be a bit rambunctious."
"Aww, don't sweat it. I think they're fine just the way they are." Florian smiled
"Besides, it would be rather boring without some fun, wouldn't you say?" Renne asked.
"Haha. You're not wrong." Yukito chuckled.
"Oh, I got to show Tita, Estelle and Joshua about this. Eh, maybe Eula too." Renne said as her Rotom Phone emerges from her pocket and take a picture. "Done. And sent. It won't be long before I get a comeback."
Then they heard mumbling going on in the shed.
"Sounds like they're having an argument." Florian said. "Wanna check it out."
"Fine by me." Renne said as they approached the read.
"Rrrghhhh! I sworn there were more in here!"
"Is something wrong?" Florian asked.
"Gah!" Carmine jump and turn. "Oh great, go ahead and roam around like you own the place. But unfortunately, it looks like there are only two masks in the shed. Too bad, right? There's nothing I can do 'bout it! Guess you two will have to do without a mask, eh? First come, first serve, and all that!"
"Oh? That's a funny thing to say, Carmine. I'm pretty sure I heard you complaining that there should be more. Wouldn't you agree, Florian?" Renne asked with a grin on her face.
"Yeah, I'm pretty sure I heard that." Florian nodded
"P-Poppycock! You must be hearing things!"
"Whaaatever you say." Florian and Renne said, laidback.
(BGM ended)
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Carmine's Theme)
"But I got a better idea instead of a mask. How about a battle, but in festival style!" Carmine smirked
'Oh not again...' Kieran thought and drooped
"A battle this time? Really? Florian raise an eyebrow.
"Yes, but this time, it will be you, Renne. Now get into position!" Carmine demand.
"All right, fine. But don't whine to me if you lose." Renne sighed as she and Camine begin to leave the house and then begin to use the streets.
"Your sister is quite something." Florian said
"I know..." Kieran sighed
(BGM ended)
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC: The Teal Mask ost - Carmine Theme)
"All right, let's see what you're made up!" Carmine pull out her Pokeball.
"So bossy aren't you? I'll play along." Renne pulled out her Pokeball.
Bossy but nice behind - Carmine
"Go, Morpeko!" Carmine throw her Pokeball and came out Morpeko.
"Morpeko!" Morpeko roared.
"Have fun, Luxray!" Renne throw her Pokeball and came out Luxray.
"Luxray!" Luxray howled.
"All right, Morpeko, Seed Bomb!" Carmine command
"Morpepe!" Morpeko shoot seeds from her mouth.
"Destroy them with Wild Charge!" Renne command
"Luuux!" Luxray charge at Morpeoko with yellow electricity around himself, destroying the Seed Bomb and then tackle Morpeko.
"Morpe!" Morpeko winched as he was knock away.
"Morpeko! Grrr!" Carmine growled as Morpeko got back on his feet and then change into hunger mode. "Use Aura Wheel!"
"Morpeko!" Morpeko form a light blue wheel of energy around her body and then charge at Luxray.
"Scary Face." Renne said
"Luxray." Luxray gave a scary face that frighten Morpeko, causing her to stopped and shivered.
"M-Mor..."
"Now use Crunch." Renne command
Luxray jump on Morpoeko and then used Crunch, then he tossed Morporko into mid-air. Luxray jumps high it enough and use Iron Tail to slam Morpeko back to the ground. Morpeko slowly got back on her feet and then used Lash Out as she rush toward Luxray and lashed out her frustration at him and then pushed him away but slightly. Luxray then rushes and uses Play Rough against Morporko as a white smoke covers the fight and then knock Morpeko away rolling and fell on the floor in defeat.
"Morpeko! Return!" Carmine recalled Morpeko and then switched Pokeball. "Go Mightyena!" She throw her Pokeball and came out Mightyena.
"Ruff!" Mightyena growled.
"Luxray, Discharge!" Renne command
"Raaru!" Luxray fired blue electricity at Mightyena.
"Dodge and use Fire Fang!" Carmine yelled as Mightyena dodge the blue lightning, then rushed toward Luxray with Fire Fang.
"Dodge and use Thunder Wave." Renne command
Luxray dodge and then fired blue electricity at Mightyena, causing her to yell in agony as she became paralyzed.
"Ah, Mightyena!" Carmine yelled
"Discharge!" Renne command
"Raaru!" Luxray roared and fired Discharge at Mightyena who yelled in agony.
"Mightyena, Take down!" Carmine yelled but the Paralyzed prevented that. "Grr!"
"Finish with Thunderbolt!" Renne command
"Roar!" Luxray channel and fired powerful electricity onto Mightyena who cried in agony and then fell.
"Grrrrr!" Carmine let out frustration and pull out a Pokeball. "Return!" then called Mightyena and then switched Pokeball Swadloon, go!" She throw her Pokeball and came out Swadloon.
"Swadloon." Swaloon cried.
"Okay Swadloon, Sticky Web!"
"Swad. Swad!" Swadloon fired stircky webs toward Luxray.
"Dodge it quick!" Renne yelled as Luxray dodge as he jump and go as Swadloon fired, and then stick onto the houses.
"Oh uh..." Kieran sweatdrop.
"Now use Crunch!" Renne commanded as Luxray and used Crunch on Swadloon.
"Swad!" Swadloon grunted.
"Bug Buzz!" Carmine yelled
"Swaaaaadlooon!" Swadloon yelled as a red sound wave echoes, causing Luxray to let go and growled in agony.
"Now use Energy Ball!"
"Swadloon!" Swadloon then fired Energy Ball and push back Luxray.
"Hehe." Renne giggled as Luxray shook his head.
"Is something funny to you?" Carmine asked.
"Just this. Luxray, Electro Ball!" Renne command.
"Roar!" Luxray then channels a ball of electricity and throws it and strike on Swadloon.
"Swad!" Swadloon grunted as she was pushed back.
"Used Sticky Web!" Carmine yelled ASSwadloom fired sticky web and then trapped Luxray is it. "Gotcha! Now Energy Ball!"
"Swaaadloom!" Swadloom fired Eneergy Ball
"Discharge!" Renne yelled as Luxray then channeled electricity and fired at it, burning the web and destroying the Energy Ball. "Now, Electro Ball!"
"Roar!" Luxray then fired Electro Ball at Swadloon and strike him.
"Swaaa!" Swadloon grunted, rolling away until landed on her back with swirling eyes.
"Even Swadloon!? But she's also a grass type! Ugggggh!" Carmine recalled Swadloon and then go for her final Pokeball. "Sinistcha, you're up!" She throw her Pokeball and came out Sinistcha.
"Sinistcha." It spoked.
"Oh? Could that be the evolve form from your previous Pokemon?" Renne asked as she ARCUS Alpha scan it.
"Sinistcha. The Macha Pokemon and the evolve form of Poltchageist. A Grass and Ghost Type. Sinistcha lives in cool, dark areas such as the back of a shelf or beneath a house's floorboards. In the past, Sinistcha would sneak into houses and pretend to be tea in order to trick people into drinking it, so it can absorb their life force. However, because the chawan Sinistcha inhabits had fallen out of use, this act became largely unsuccessful."
"Well isn't that interesting. I wonder if those two would want this Pokemon." Renne mused.
"Sinistcha, use Shadow Ball!" Carmine yelled
"Sinistcha!" Sinistcha fired Shadow Ball.
"Knock it back with Iron Tail." Renne command.
"Lux!" Luxray's tail glow and then Swing his tail, knocking Shadow Ball back, causing panic to Sinistcha and knock it away
"Grrrrr! I'll gonna crush you for that!" Carmine yelled. "Sinistcha! Matcha Gotcha!"
"Sin!" Sinistcha recovered and then started swirling in its cup. "Siiiiinstcha!" Then shoot out green liquid and struck on Luxray as it drain him of his HP and healing Sinistcha.
"Lux." Luxray grunted.
"Was that a signature move? Interesting. In that case, Luxray, use Crunch!" Renne command
"Lux!" Luxray jump and bite down heavily on Sinistcha.
"Sinis!" Sinistcha yelled in agony.
"Throw him!" Renne command as Luxray toss Sinstcha in the air.
"Matcha Gotcha!" Carmine yelled
"Thunderbolt!" Renne command
Luxray fired thunderbolt while Sinistcha recovered and shoot out Matcha Gotcha as both attacks intercept, but two lightning aim toward Sinistcha and strike it
"Sinistchaaaaaa!" He yelled in aogny until he fell to the floor and eyes swirling.
(BGM ended)
(Resuming Carmine's Theme)
"Grrrrrrr! First Florian and now YOU?!" Carmine complained
"Well done, Luxray." Renne petting Luxray.
"Luxray." Luxray respond with a proud smug.
Carmine sighed and recalled Sinistcha. "So much for that..." She grumbled. "Oh well! It's not like beating me was gonna cause another mask to manually appear. Now if you'll excuse me. I have to get MY mask..." Then she took off.
"Was the mask comment really necessary?" Florian asked.
"Yes!" Carmine yelled
Florian sweatdrop.
"I'm really sorry..." Kieran sighed as Carmine came back holding two masks and toss one to Kieran who catch it.
"All right, here we go... and... there!" Carmine put on her mask and Kieran put on his. "How do I look?"
"Like a troublemaker." Renne answered
"Excuse me!?"
"Hmm... Florian, would you like to wear my mask?" Kieran asked
"Are you—"
"Absolutely not!" Carmine interrupted Florian. "I already said it's first come, first served! And besides, that's YOUR ogre mask! You've always loved that mask best!"
"Yeah, but—"
"No buts about it! They can get their own mask at the festival. They're fine. Now, move it! Let's go!" Then Carmine took off running.
"Again, I'm really sorry about her..." Kieran drooped. "I know my sis seem kinda harsh, b-but she's really not all that bad..."
"Oh really? So tell." Renne asked
"Well, she's been tearin' the shed apart, tryin' to find the third and fourth mask for you guys before you got here... Which I'm sure you overheard. But don't tell her I said that, either!" He chuckled.
"All right." Florian chucked. "So where's the festival at exactly?"
"Back in Kitakami Hall."
"Then you get going. We got to feed our Pokemon." Renne replied
"All right. Cya there." Kieran nodded and he took off.
(BGM ended)
One feed and make their way to Kitakami Hall later...
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Kitakami Hall)
"Wooooow." Florian said in awe as they arrived and see many decorations and open stalls.
"You guys made it!" Kieran approached with Carmine. "I'm glad that you're here!"
"And we're glad we're here too!" Florian smiled. "So this is the Festival of Masks?"
"Yep. But it's just the first day. It'll keep going for awhile..."
"I bet you don't have any festivals this big over in Paldea or whatever, right?" Carmine asked
"To be honest, I'm not sure if there's a festival. The only thing I remember so far "Florian replied
"Same. Back in Liberl, there's a martial art contest they held every year, including the Queen's birthday celebration." Renne added
"So all I hear is Paldea doesn't have any big festivals. I bet it's not at good at Kitakami in those big cities of yours." Carmine replied
"Just as you with the Mushroom Kingdom Star Festival."
"Star Festival?" Kieran asked
"It's a very beautiful festival. I haven't seen it in person but I heard and researched that every 100 years in the Mushroom Kingdon, a comet passes through the world, filling the skies and sending down countless stars onto the planet."
"Whooooa..."
"Okay, first off, Mushroom Kingdom? Really? Also that festival sounds farfetched."
"It's fine if you don't believe me. I did hear that it will restart soon after two interruptions. And if it does restart, I'll invite you guys to see it."
"You mean outside of Kitakami? Um... aside from Blueberry Academy, is it possible that we visit other part of the region?" Kieran wondered.
"Not unless they're willingly going to pay for our trip. Because if not, then so sorry." Carmine said. "But festival talking aside, why don't we take a picture together? I'll be the one to snap for this awesome night forever. One of you gimme your Roto-Stick for a sec..."
"Okay." Florian handed Carmine his Roto-Stick as she got out her Rotom Phone out.
"All right, huddle up. Schooch in closer!" Carmine requested as they gathered up.
"Ow! You're steppin' on my toe, Sis!" Kieran complain
"Oh, stop complaining! This'll only take a second! Ok, are you all set? Say Chansey!"
"Chansey!" Florian, Renne and Kieran say as Carmine take the picture.
"Now that's what I call a nice festival vibe! Okay here you go." She handed Carmine Florian's Roto-strick back.
"Thank you!" Florian take it back.
"That reminds me, you don't know what the meaning behind the festival, right?" Carmine asked as both Florian and Renne shake their heads. "Well the Festival of Masks is held so we can all honor the Loyal Three, the brave heroes of Kitakami. The Loyal Three are the Pokemon that once protected this land from the evil ogre, you know. Most of the kids in town wear masks of the Loyal Three, like me. Did I mention they're our heroes?"
"You did." Florian and Renne answered, causing Kieran to snicker
"What? What're you laughin' at?"
"N-Nothin'! I was just hinkin' it was funny that, like... you don't know anything about the ogre..." Kieran smiled
"What?! I know the legend of Kitakami better than anyone! You're awfully gutsy to laugh at your big sister!"
"S-Sorry..."
"Anyway, since Kiki's still a little baby, so of course he think some kind of terrible monster's cool. He likes the ogre more than the Loyal Three."
"Oh, look!" Kieran pointed. "They've got candy apples! Let's go check out the stalls!" Then he took off.
"That brother of mine's awfully quick to run away when he doesn't like what's being said."
"Well, you did try to embarrass him." Renne replied. "Quite the big sister, aren't you?"
"That better not be sarcastic I detected, Renne."
"You must be hearing things, sweet Carmine." Renne grinned
"Oh now you're making fun of me!" Carmine growled.
"Heheh~ Maybe that's how Kieran feels when you treat him like a baby. Sooner or later, he will stand up against you." Renne said as she gracefully walk away.
"Later Carmine!" Florian waved goodbye and took off as he and Renne met up with Kieran. "Hey there, Kieran!"
"Oh hey, glad you two can make it! Hang on a moment." Kieran smiled and turn to the counter. "E-Excuse me... Three candy applies, please..."
"You got it! Three candy applies, comin' right up!" The Man nodded as he readied three candy apples as Kieran pay for it and takes them. "Okay, Florian, Renne. Here you go." He handed one each to Florian and Renne.
"Thanks Kieran!" Florian smiled. "Next stall will be my treat!"
"Hehe... looking forward to it then." Kieran smiled, looking at the candy apples. "I love candy apples. You don't get to eat 'em every day, y'know? Grandma always just make us mochi as a snack... There's even a Pokemon in Kitakami that looks like a little ol' candy apple—didja know that?"
"Yeah! Applin, right? I actually caught two of them back in Paldea and got two of their forms. Flapple and Appletun." Florian nodded
"Did you know that Applin has another form that's unique?"
"Really?!" Florian eye sparkling.
"Yeah. They're called Dipplin. They evolve from a special apple here in Kitakami. It's called Syrupy Apple. I know an Orchin that sells them too."
"Really? That's great! Let's go visit the place next time!"
"Sure." Kieran smiled before something caught his attention. "Oh hey, let's check that out over there!" He said as they take off.
(BGM paused)
As they begin to climb up the stairs, they begin to pass a few people and then they climb up another set of stairs until Kieran pump into someone.
"Oh! Sorry!" Kieran exclaimed.
"Oh, it's all right." A young man said with a smile as he's wearing a Umbreon Mask to the side. "Have fun at the festival kids!"
"We will, you too!" Florian smiled as he and Kieran took off while Renne stay behind.
"Well, this is certainly a surprise." Renne fold her arms. "Who would have guessed you would be in this far-distant region."
The young man who reveals themselves to be Ouroboros Enforcer Natsume Kagami wearing a blue Kimono with eastern flowers and characters.
(The Great Ace Attorney ost - Cosney Megundal ~ Suspet from the Fog)
"Hehe. Even though this is literally our first meeting, it is quite a surprise to meet a familiar face." Natsume replied. "Especially to you, Noel's little sweetheart. What brings you to this eastern land of the Pokemon Region."
"That should be my line of questioning." Renne fold her arms. "Why are you here? Here to catch some Pokemon?"
"No. At least not yet. As for why I'm here. Relax. It isn't anything nefarious mind you. Especially since nothing is going on right now. All I am is a simple traveler."
"Really?"
"Really. Now it's your turn."
"Just a field trip to the school I'm in as an exchange student." Renne answered
"A field trip? Ahh, how lucky for you kids to go explore the world in school." Natsume chuckled. "I'm sure Noel would be jealous of the life you had."
"He could have also enrolled in a school if he wanted too."
"True, but his circumstances are special. Even though it is a high secret, there are world leaders and governments who are aware of the society and its members. Should Noel enroll in the school like a normal kid, it would be difficult for him since he is monitor. Should one of the Anguis call, he has to step out. Regardless, he can't have the life you have right now."
"I'm not that well-known since I left the society first. It will be harder for him." Renne nodded.
"Even though we are somewhat invisible to the world. The government can't touch us if they don't know where we are." Natsume agreed. "But enough about that. I hope my appearance doesn't affect your trip. Should I also keep this between us as well?"
"That would be for the best, yes. But if you are under some mission for the society and if it is dangerous, I will take action."
"Hehe. What a scary girl you are. Don't worry. I won't do a thing. Not unless something happens. You should go reunite with your friends."
"I was planning on it. It's a pleasure to meet you." Renne replied
"Same to you. Let's hope we meet again on friendly terms." Natsume chuckled as he wave goodbye and he took off.
(BGM ended)
"Are you being serious right now, Kiki?!" Carmine yelled as she look pissed off. "You're taking the side of an outsider over your own sister?! That makes me so annoyed I think I'm gonna black out!"
Renne sweatdrops as she approaches. "What happened?"
(Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes ost - Song of the Buffoon)
"Apparently Carmine is complaining that Kieran choose to side with me because I defeated Carmine in a game called Ogre Oustin'. Since she doesn't have any pocket money, she demanded Kieran to defeat me, but he said no."
Renne sweatdrop. "That's the stupidest and childish reason to make someone else beat you."
"I heard that, Renne!" Carmine yelled.
"So what did you win?"
"This!" Florian pulled out an Exp. Charm. "It's an Exp. Charm! It increases Exp for my Pokemon!"
"Really?" Renne mused. "Mind if I play the game?"
"Of course!"
"Oh here's a good idea! Renne, you beat Florian for me!" Carmine demand, causing Renne, Florian, Kieran and the staff to sweatdrop.
One game completion later...
"A Tie?!" Carmine jawdroppped as Renne got her Exp. Charm. "But you were doing better than him!"
"Eh. I just doing this out of fun. And getting this." Renne holding the Exp. Charm.
"Can't you just beat him for me?!"
"No."
"Arrrrrugh!"
Kieran sighed. "I'm really sorry you guys. I'll handle her before she'll make even more scenes. Why don't the two of you wander around a bit in the meantime?"
"Okay. Later Kieran. And good luck." Renne nodded as she and Florian took off.
(BGM ended)
"So where should we explore?" Florian wondered.
"I don't know. But let's find a good place to sit down and eat the candy apples Kieran was kind enough to buy us." Renne said as they headed to a nearby table but they saw something standing and looking from Oni Mountain entrance. "Huh?"
"What is—" Florian asked until he also notice something was standing at the entrance to Oni Mountain. "Who's that?"
"Don't know." Renne replied as they approached.
The being in question appears to be a green-covered child wearing a mask that resembles the Ogre mask. They approached and noticed them.
"Hey there." Florian greeted with a warm smile.
"Pon?" The being tilts it head.
Florian bends down. "Are you enjoying the festival little one?"
"Ponio!"
"Well, aren't you looking cute." Renne said. "Are you alone?"
"Pon."
"Where is your parents, or a sibling little one?"
"Pon..."
'Why does it say pon? Wait... could it be...'
"Hey Florian, Renne—listen to this... It's nuts!" Carmine approached them "Kiki's no use at all! Zero talent for outin' ogres, I'm telling you!"
"!" The child flinched and took off.
"Huh? Where are you going?" Renne called out.
"Who was that?" Carmine asked.
"Wait, hold on!" Florian then took off as he stare at the child who was on the staircase and look back.
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Ogrepon Unmasked)
"Oi, Florian!" Carmine approached with Renne. "You shouldn't run off on your own." She scolded and then look at the child. "Hey, new kid! That goes for you too!"
The child step back and then backflips. But it once it landed, it accidentally dropped its mask, revealing its face. The child was no child, but a humanoid creature. It has an orange face, and yellow eyes with white, star-shape pupils with a small green leaves at the edge that closely resembles eyelashes.
"Oh!" Florian pick up the mask. "You dropped this." He offered it back to the child.
"It's okay. Nobody here isn't going to bite." Renne called out.
"You should come back! The mountain's dangerous at night!" Carmine added
The creature on the other hand cower in fear and then it took off.
"Wait!" Florian called out.
(BGM ended)
"Who was that? Where'd that kid come from?" Carmine wondered
"I don't think that was a kid. It look like a Pokemon." Renne said.
"What're you talking about? Wait, do you mean that...? That kid we just sae... They ran off toward the mountain..." Carmine gasped. "C-Could that have been the ogre?! From the story on all the signboards?! Are you saying that story was TRUE?!"
"Didn't you say you were more familiar with the story out of everyone?" Renne asked
"Never mind that!" Carmine look at the mask. "But... looking at this mask they dropped..."
"Florian! Renne! Sis!" Kieran called out as he approached, causing an ! to appeared over their heads as they turn. "What're you guys doin' over here?"
"You're not going to believe this, Kieran. But we bump into—"
(Fire Emblem Three Houses ost - Spiderwebs)
"Abababaab! Stop, stop stop!" Carmine covered Florian's mouth. 'Hide the mask!'
"Eh?" Florian blinked.
'Just do it!' Carmine said, forcefully as Florian put the mask in his inventory.
"E-Eh? Why the sudden yellin' all of the sudden, Sis?" Kieran asked
"It's nothing! Nothing at all I can assure you!"
Kieran raise an eyebrow. "Wait a minute... I see what's going on here."
"Y-You do?"
"You're makin' fun of me behind my back, aren't you?" Kieran sighed. "I'm just... gonna head back to the festival..." he said as he took off.
Carmine sigh of relief. "Whew... At least he didn't figure out what we were really talking about."
"Carmine, why did you suddenly shush me and put the mask away?" Florian asked.
"Because you scared me with all that! Don't you have any filter?"
"Just explain the issue here." Renne said. 'Hmm?' Her eyes gleam to the left as she senses a presence but it vanishes. 'Was that my imagination just now?'
"Look, Kiki is really obsessed with the ogre. Like a complete fan. So, if he finfd out that we've seen that ogre without him... He would feel bad and I rather not see him upset, you feel me?" Carmine explained
"Oh... We both know he likes the Ogre... you're saying he would feel left out? Maybe even jealous?"
"Yeah... but something else... but I can't point my finger on it... Maybe I'm just overthinking it. 'Sides, I didn't want him running up the mountain to follow the ogre at this hour, either."
"Well that reason is good enough to lie to him I suppose." Renne said.
"Let's keep this as our secret, okay? Also, maybe hold off on showing Kiki that mask you picked up, too." Carmine said as she took off.
"Hmm..." Renne hummed.
"Something up, Renne?" Florian asked
"I can understand not wanting him to go after the ogre and him feeling left out and even jealous of us but... it's about the Ogre... doesn't it look... sad?"
"Come to think of it..." Florian closes his eyes, remembering its face. "It does... but... why would it be sad and run away?"
"I don't know... but..." Renne folds her arms. "Something isn't right about the folk story about it... It looks really cute. Hardly fitting for what an Ogre would look like either. At least, that's what I think. But... I'm more curious about it. And that mask too."
"Yeah. Me too." Florian nodded
"We need to talk to Carmine more about the story."
"But what about Kieran?"
"As much as I don't like the idea, we'll have to keep that a secret for now at least. Come. Let's go." Renne said
"Okay..." Florian nodded and they take off.
Unknown to them, Natsume was listening in.
'Well isn't this an interesting juicy story...' Natsume thought as he look up the mountain. 'The little ogre is not what it seems form the tales the people are telling. I wonder... should I visit the little one? Or watch from the shadow.'
Florian and Renne then return to the entrance of Kitakami Hall.
"Hey guys, did you have fun with the festival?" Kieran asked
"Yeah! We sure did!" Florian cheered. "Since its late, we should head home now."
"Yeah. I'll walk you guys to the community center. Come on." Kieran nodded as they walk down the stairs.
(BGM ended)
Dateline: November 28 1206...
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC: The Teal Mask ost - Mossi Town)
"There you two are!" Carmine called out as Renne return her hairstyle back to her usual self and school uniform while Florian remain the same for now.
"You were waiting for us Carmine?" Florian asked
"Of course I was! Just because we didn't set up to meet again doesn't mean you shouldn't keep me waiting."
"Yeah that doesn't make any sense, Carmine. If you wanted to meet again, you could have mention that before we split up yesterday." Renne told her.
"I—" Carmine grumbled but she sighed. "Okay, you're right. Listen... I... wanted to talk to both of you for a bit. You haven't told anyone else about... y'know... about the thing that happen last night? Right?!"
"No, we haven't said a thing." Florian answered
"You better not be lying! If I find out you blabbed, I'm gonna make you swallow a Koffing whole!" Carmine threaten, causing Florian and Renne to sweatdrop.
"Carmine... just get to the point."
"Ah, right. Do you still have the thing we picked up from the stairs, right?" Carmine asked
"Yeah. I still have it with me. Why?" Florian asked
"My grandpa knows a lot about the village's history. We should go talk to him about what happened yesterday!"
"Oh good. I was going to ask about the story anyway." Renne said. "Come on, let's go." She said as they take off and arrived at Carmine and Kieran's house.
"Ah, good morning, Florian, Renne!" Yukito greeted.
"Morning Mr. Yukito." Florian smiled.
The door open and came out Kieran as he closes. "Hey, Florian, Renne! G'mornin'!"
'Tsk, he's awake, huh.' Carmine muttered.
"Wanna go see the last signboard?"
"Kiki, go find someplace else to be! Those two got some business with me!"
Kieran, Florian, Renne and Yukito sweatdrop.
"Seriously? They're spending all their time with you... That's so unfair! You can be such a jerk..."
"What'd you just call me?!"
"Hmph!" Then Kieran took off.
Renne sighed as she shrugged. "You know, there is a kinder way to ask him to wait for us, you know. Was that really necessary to say?"
"Shut it, Renne! Honestly, he got some nerve calling me that! He should know better than to talk to me like that."
"That's enough Carmine! Be kind to your younger brother." Yukito scolded.
"I WAS being kind! It's not like I hit him or anything!"
"Do you even hear yourself?" Florian asked in disbelief. "That's hardly a way to be kind to him."
"Sounds to me, he'd finally fed up with all your bullying. He's growing up." Renne fold her arms. "But never mind that for now. We actually have something to discuss with you, Mr. Yukito."
"Yeah! Show Grandpa the thing you have Florian!" Carmine agreed
"Okay." Florian begin to pull out his bag and then.
'Wait, Florian.'Renne whispers to his ear. 'Let's mess with Carmine for a bit?'
'How?'
'Show Mr. Yukito the wrong thing for now.' Renne grinned as Florian nodded.
Florian pull out the Exp. Charm. "Look what I got Mr. Yukito!"
"Hm? What's this?" Yukito rub his chin as he look at it.
"No, not that!" Carmine yelled "I'm talkin' about that thing we found yesterday!"
"Okay, okay..." Florian put the charm away and pull out the Roto-Stick. "Here."
"Hm? This is—"
"Not that one either!" Carmine yelled as Florian pull out the Pokeball.
"A Pokeball?" Yukito rub his beard.
"Oh for the love off, not that one either!" Carmine got an anime tick on her forehead as Renne wheezing with Florian.
"Okay, this one." Florian pull out the ARCUS Alpha.
"Oh? What's this?" Yukito asked
"You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?!" Carmine seethings as Florian and Renne let out a cat grinned and look the other way. "I knew it!"
"Ahahaha! Okay, okay, that's enough messing with you for now." Florian chuckled.
"For now?!"
"Okay." Florian then pulled the Teal Mask. "This is the one."
(BGM paused)
Yukito gasped. "This mask... it can't be... It belongs to that poor ogre! Where did you find this!?"
"We bumped into the Ogre yesterday at the Festival of Masks. At first, it was okay with me and Renne until Carmine show up. I think she must have scared the poor guy."
"Wait, why me!?" Carmine asked
"I think the word outing must have cause them to cower in fear." Renne said.
"So it's my fault?!"
"I never would have thought that the ogre would still be gracing our festival with its presence..." Yukito muttered.
"Huh? What do you mean "still?"" Carmine asked "I thought the ogre was a scoundrel that attacked the village."
"I suppose it's time I told you, Carmine... You see, the truth of what happened with that ogre... is the other way around."
"You mean the Ogre was actually a good one?" Florian asked
"Yes. You and Renne must also hear this since you encounter the poor ogre. No... Ogerpon is it's rightly named."
"Ogerpon..." Renne rub her chin.
"Let me tell you the true story about the ogre and the history of this land as passed down through our family for generations..." Yukito then sit down as Florian, Carmine and Renne gathered. "I learned this from from my father. A story that the village must never know. You must never speak of it to the others."
"Okay..." Carmine trailed off.
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Fearsome Ogre Folktale ~ Truth)
"A long, long time ago, a man and an ogre came to Kitakami from a foreign land. The people of the village feared the man and the ogre, who looked so different from them... And so they refused to let the travelers come anywhere near the village. The man and the ogre were saddened that the villagers did not welcome them... But they were happy just to have each other. They settled quietly in a cave on the mountain. There was only one villager who pitied the two travelers: the village mask maker. He made several masks for the man and the ogre. The masks were brilliant works, adorned with gems the man brought from somewhere far away. By wearing these masks, the travelers could hide their true faces and mingle with the villagers. The man and the ogre were overjoyed. They thanked the mask maker for his kindness. Wearing the masks, the man and the ogre started secretly joining the village festival. The mysterious pair soon became the talk of the village because of their brilliant masks. In fact, rumors about them quickly spread far and wide, even to distant lands. But rumors of exquisite, shining masks attract more than just innocent curiosity... A group of greedy Pokémon soon made their way to the land of Kitakami. These Pokémon sneaked into the cave in which the man and the ogre lived...and tried to make off with the masks, which were carefully stored away. The man happened to be there. He managed to hold on to one of the masks...but he was not strong enough to protect them all. The Pokémon stole the other three masks. Several hours later, when the ogre returned to the cave...it found its beloved home in ruin. All that was left were the signs of a struggle and a teal mask. The ogre donned that mask and went down to the village, perhaps to search for its friend. It found the greedy Pokémon there, gloating over their stolen masks, and defeated them. The villagers, of course, had no idea what was happening nor why. All they saw was the raging ogre. And they felt great fear. The villagers thought the three Pokémon had fallen trying to protect the village from the ogre. To honor their sacrifice, the villagers named them the Loyal Three and interred them with care. Wounded and weak, the ogre returned to its cave—alone and with great sadness."
(BGM ended)
"Ah..." Florian grasp the Jinbei to his chest.
"So that is the real truth..." Renne muttered.
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Carmine's Theme)
"That's horrible..." Carmine clenched her fist. "Ogerpon didn't deserve that! And the Loyal Three—they're the absolute worst! The story everyone's been told is the complete opposite of the truth! They gotta hear about this!"
"Carmine, calm yourself! I told you already to keep it to yourself!" Yukito stated.
"But Grandpa—"
"The villagers believe their own version of history. They revere the Loyal Three—so how would they react to being told that they've got it all wrong?"
"None of them would believe her..." Renne fold her arms. "They would think Carmine disgraced them and be angry with her."
"Exactly. Back when this all first occurred, the mask masker—that is to say, our ancestor— tried desperately to tell the truth of the matter. But nobody would take him seriously. In fact, it's said he was persuaded as a heretic."
"But that isn't right!" Florian stated. "Neither your ancestor nor Ogerpon deserve to be shunned like that! How could the people of Kitakami be so cold to both the man and Ogerpon all those years ago?"
"Alas, that is how the people of Kitakami were all those years ago. They are not fond of outsiders because they are different from them. They are lead to believe that." Yukiko sighed
"That is not only biased but also discriminating. Just because they're different from them. No one should be mistreated by that." Renne stated
"We live in a different time compared to the ancient history of Kitakami. And the end of all that, the mask maker chose to protect his descendants—us— by keeping his mouth shut. However, he kept the truth alive—passed down from generation to generation as a family secret."
"I see..." Carmine sighed. "Kiki doesn't know the whole story yet, does he?"
"He shouldn't, no—I've certainly never spoken to him about it. Why do you ask?" Yukito asked
"Kiki really like the Ogre... He's practically obsessed with it. And he's been trying to one-up me—as if he knows more about Ogrepon than I do."
"Well, I can't say what's going on with the boy... but he always was a sensitive child. It wouldn't surprise me if he's somehow intuited the truth. I promise to tell Kieran the whole story when the time is right. Until then, take care not to breathe a word of the truth to anybody!"
"Okay Grandpa..." Carmine asked. "Now I REALLY can't tell Kiki we met the Ogre..."
"But... is this really okay... to lie to him? Kieran really care about the Ogre... I don't want to hurt his feelings." Florian stated
"I understand what you're saying, Florian. And I really appreciate Kieran's feelings. But I must ask you to keep this between us until I will tell Kieran the truth." Yukiko said
"I..." Florian droop. "I... understand..."
"About that mask you showed me... I noticed the jewel on its forehead was chipped. I might be able to fix it. Would you mind leaving the mask with me for a while, Florian?"
"Sure..." Florian nodded as he handed the mask over to him.
"Maybe it got chipped when it fell down the stairs?" Carmine asked. "Since Grandpa's offering, let's get it all nice and fixed up before we give it back to Ogerpon!"
"Don't you worry. I'll be sure to take good care of this."
"Okay... but... is it really okay to keep this from him... to lie to him?" Florian asked.
"Yes. I will tell him when the time is right." Yukito nodded
Renne sighed. "I don't think that's an option."
"Why do you say that?"
Renne turn to the gate. "Because I have a very strong feeling that SOMEONE is already eavedropping the whole thing."
(BGM ended)
"What?" Yukito turn to the gate.
"I know you're there Kieran. You can stop hiding..." Renne said, giving a sad look.
At that moment, Kieran came out from hiding.
"K-Kieran! How long have you been listening in!?"
"From the beginning when I knew somethin' was off with Sis." Kieran lowers his head. "So...that's the real story, huh..."
"Kieran, I..."
Kieran turn his back. "Florian, Renne. The final sign... it's a bit of a hike away. It's located on the other side on Oni Mountain called Paradise Barrens. Head over to the mountain and go down toward the northwest. I'll be waiting for you there." Then he storm off.
"Kiki, wait!" Carmine yelled.
Yukito sighed as he palm face. "Oh dear..."
"Um... We should get going." Florian said
"Right." Renne nodded. "Thank you for telling us. We'll be on our way." Renne said.
"Wait!" Carmine called out. "Can you please calm Kiki down? I think he might do something reckless."
"We'll try." Florian said as they take off.
Travel to Paradise Barrents later...
"Man that took awhile!" Florian sighed as he hop off Koraidon as Renne did with Miraidon and then recalled them to their Pokeball. "So this is Paradise Parrens huh?"
"Looks like it. But..." Renne sighed as she fold her arm. "You think Kieran is okay...?"
"I... don't know... but I hope he's okay..."
"There's no need to worry..." Kieran approached with solemn. "I'm okay."
"Are you sure?" Florian asked with concern.
"Yeah." Kieran look the other way. "You know... this place used to be the Ogre's favorite place to go around."
"Kieran..."
"Hey, before we check out the sign... could you... battle me, Florian?"
"Sure... I don't mind." Florian trailed off.
"Your Pokemon are all healed up, right?"
"Yeah."
"Okay..." Kieran then begins to take a position on a distance from the sign.
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Kieran's Battle)
Kieran pull out his Pokeball. "This time... I'll win!"
Florian took a deep breath, pull out his Pokeball and look serious as he usual does. "Let's do this Kieran!"
Ogre Fan - Kieran
"Yanma, let's go!" Kieran throw his Pokeball.
"All yours Ceruledge!" Florian throw his Pokeball and both Pokemon came out.
"I wanna win... so I got this..." Kieran muttered to himself. "Yanma, use Air Cutter!"
"Night Slash!" Florian command
Yanma fired Air Cutter as Ceruledge then used Night Slash to block off the air blades from hurting him, then he rush toward Yanma and slash him. Yanma recovered and then used Wing Attack and hit Cerledge repeatedly. Cerluedge them push Yanma back and then used Shadow Claw and launch a strong blow. Yanma recovered and then used Double Team, confusing Ceruledge.
"Rotate Psycho Slash!" Florian yelled
"Cerrledge!" Ceruledge then spin around, sending multiple Psycho Cuts to each clones of Yanma until one hit the real Yanma.
"Yanma!" Yanma grunted
"Grr! Air Slash!" Kieran yelled
"Yaaanma!" Yanma then fired Air Slash at Cerluedge
"Phantom Force!" Florian yelled as Ceruledge vanished into a portan then reappeared in front of Yanma and slash him down
"Yaaama!" Yanma yelled and slam on the ground with swirling eyes.
'He didn't use a Fire Type move against Yanma... he's going easy on me still...' Kieran clenched his fist and pull out his Pokeball. Yanma, return!" He recalled Yanma and switch Pokeball. "Poliwrath, go!" He throw his Pokeball and came out Poliwrath.
"Poliwrath!"
"Poliwrath, Earth Power!"
"Poliwrath!" Poliwrath punch the ground as golden cracks travel to Cerledge and giving him considerable damage.
"Cer!" Ceruledge grunted.
"Ceruledge, Psycho Cut!" Florian yelled
"Cerr!" Ceruledge then send out Psycho Cut toward Poliwrath.
"Dodge and use Hydro Pump!" Kieran yelled
"Poli!" Poliwrath dodged. "Wraaath!" Then fired Hydro Pump at Cerleudge
"Dodge and use Shadow Claw!" Florian yelled
Cerledge dodge the powerful stream and then rush toward Poliwrath. Poliwrath shields himself by using his arms as Cerledge slashes with Shadow Claw and then grabs Cerledge and slams him over to use Earth Power. But Cerluedge stopped it by kicking Poliwrath's guts, knocking him off and Cerledge got back on his feet. Poliwrath recovered and then took his stand. Poliwrath used Liquidations as Cerledge use Shadow Claw as both lung at each other, throwing punched and slashes at each other. Poliwrath go for a palm strike but Cerledge duck and slide kick but Poliwrath jumps and dodges and then punches the ground. Cerledge quickly jump away from the attack and then combo slash Poliwrath, pushing him away.
"Haze!" Kieran yelled
"Poliwrath!" Poliwrath shoot out Haze from it stomach as it cover the battlefield.
"Cer?" Ceruledge look around.
"Hydro Pump!" Kieran yelled as Hydro Pump was shoot out form a direction where Cerledge took a heavy blow
"Ceeeeeer!" Ceruledge yelled in agony and roll on the floor.
"Cerledge, you okay?!" Florian asked as Cerledge got back on his feet
"Cerledge."
"Okay, Rain down Psycho Cut!"
"Cer!" Cerluedge jumped in mid-air and then sending out multiple Psycho Cuts onto the haze, causing explosion and struck Poliwrath
"Poliiiii!" Poliwrath was struck but Psycho Blade as the Haze clear.
"Poliwrath!" Kieran yelled
"Bitter Blade!" Florian yelled as Cerledge landed on his feet.
"Ceeer!" Cerledge lung and slash through Poliwrath with Bitter Blade, draining his HP.
"Po...li... wrath." Poliwrath then fall in front in defeat.
"Nngh... Poliwrath, return!" Kieran recalled Poliwrath and then switch Pokeball. "Go Dipplin!" He throw the Pokeball and came out Dipplin.
"Dipplin." He roared
"So that's Dipplin?" Florian pull out his ARCUS Alpha to scan it.
"Dipplin. The Candy Apple Pokemon. A Grass and Dragon Type. Dipplin is two creatures in one Pokémon. Its evolution was triggered by a special apple grown only in one place. The head sticking out belongs to the fore-wyrm, while the tail belongs to the core-wyrm. The two share one apple and help each other out."
"Wow... you weren't kidding about another form. It look so cool and cute. And candy apple too. Your favorite Kieran."
"Y-Yeah. I know right?" Kieran scratch his cheek as he smiled a bit but he took his head. "No. Never mind that. Dipplin, you got this! Get 'em all covered in Syrup with Syrup Bomb!"
"Dipplin!" Dipplin spit out syrup and splash on Cerledge.
"Cer." Cerledge didn't grunted but it was covered in Syrup which make him difficult to move. "Cer?"
"Uh-oh... that isn't good..." Florian muttered. "Cerledge, use Bitter Blade!"
"Cer!" Cerledge then rush toward Dipplin, but the Syrup is weighting his movement. "Cer?"
"Dippin, Dragon Pulse!" Kieran yelled
"Diiiiip!" Dipplin channel and fired Dragon Pulse to push back Cerledge.
Cerledge wanted to shake off the Syrup but its very tricky.
'Syrup Bomb is just like Sticky Web... Then that means...' "Cerledge, burn off the Syrup with Flamewheel!"
"Ceerrrr!" Cerledge cloaked his body with fire as the syrup is melting until it's completely wiped off.
"Ngh!" Kieran clenched his teeth. "Use Syrup Bomb again!"
"Diip!" Dipplin fired another Syrup Bomb
"Dodge it!" Florian yelled as Ceruledge dodge "Shadow Claw!"
"Ceer!" Cerluedge rush toward Dipplin, then launch Shadow Claw with critical hit.
"Diiiiip!" Dipplin yelled in agony and was knock away to the rocky wall as it broke and fell. "Dipplin..."
"D-Dlippin, return!" Kieran yelled and recalled Dipplin to his Pokeball. 'Why... Why does it have to be like this? Why?' He pull out his final Pokeball. "Furret, go!" He throw his final Pokeball and came out Furret.
"Furret!"
"Furret, Shadow Ball!" Kieran yelled
"Dodge and use Bitter Blade!" Florian yelled
Furret fired Shadow Ball as Cerledge dodged and then rush toward to slash. Furret dodged the slashes and then fired back Shadow Ball. Cerledge recovered and then use Psycho Cut but Furret dodge go for a Sucker Punch attack, pushing Cerledge back. Cerledge then used Flame Wheel to tackle Furret, pushing him back. Then Furret launch a Shadow Ball attack.
"Dodge and use Bitter Blade!"
"Sucker Punch!" Kieran yelled
Cerledge and Furret throw slashes and fist at each other at both attacks block each other until Cerledge was fast enough to overpower Furret with Bitter Blade
"Furrrrrr!" Furret was knock away, rolling to the ground and then fell in defeat. "Furret..."
(BGM ended)
"I lost..." Kieran lower his head as he recalled Furret. He clenched his fist nexts. "It's because I'm weak... That's why I..."
"Kieran that's not true!" Florian stated as he approached with a concerned look. "You put up a better fight. It show how strong you become each passing day..."
"No..." Kieran shook his head before turning to the sign. "Come on, let's get this over with. The sign I mean."
"Kieran... Do you... want to talk about it..."
Kieran then just walk to the sign.
"Kieran..." Florian trailed off.
Renne sighed out of concern
(Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC The Teal Mask ost - Fearsome Ogre Folktale)
"If you see a shadowy figure approaching you outside the village at twilight, be wary. Don a mask at once, and hide your face. Do so, and whether the shadows of a man or monster, you will pass each other by as fellow mask wearers. If you should meet the shadow when you have no mask in hand, then pray that it is only a man. If it is, you will live to see another day, and you will remember to never forget your mask again. But if it is the ogre, you will meet your end, as do all humans whose faces are seen by it. Once it sees your face, your soul will be forget. And shall never return to the village."
(BGM ended)
"I know what you guys are thinking." Kieran said, causing Florian and Renne to turn to him. "In the old days, everyone carried mask wherever they went. And... the one who made those masks was actually my great-great-great-grandpa's great-great-great-great grandpa's... or something. I don't think any of that stuff about the ogre stealing souls is true or anything, but... it is true that our family used to make masks. Our family... has a long line of mask makers. Even my gramps can make 'em. I even heard that the reason we hold the Festival of Masks is 'cause our ancestors came up with the idea. But I don't really like what they wrote on this sign here... Just because the ogre seemed sorta scary, everyone got all afraid of it and drove it away from the village. I'm pretty sure the ogre must've been lonely on its own. Left all alone like that... Treated like some kind of outcast..."
"Kieran..." Florian said solemn.
"..." Renne look the other way until she spoke up. "Kieran... do you want to talk about it?"
Kieran shook his head. "No. Let's just take the last photo."
"I..." Florian trailed off but sighed. "Okay..."
Florian, Renne and Kieran begin to take a picture of themselves with the final sign, but they aren't happy. Florian did his best to put on a smile while Renne grab her elbow and Kieran place his hand on his hip, lowering his head.
"We're down with the assignment for now. But I've gotta get stronger with my Pokemon... I'm gonna head home." Then he took off.
"Kieran..." Florian muttered.
"I'm really worried about him..." Renne muttered
"Yeah... Me too..."
Unknown to them, Natsume was eavesdropping from the Shadows until he walk away in silent.
With Kieran...
"Why... Why can't I so weak to them..." Kieran muttered to himself. "Why can't I be just like them... The Loyal Three... you... you despicable three..."
"Hello." A voice called out, causing Kieran to flinch.
"Huh?!" Kieran turn to the voice and reveal Natsume approached. "W-Who are you?!"
"Sorry to startle you. I'm actually a foreigner to this land. I heard legends about the Ogre and was hoping to know more."
"You... want to know more about the Ogre..."
"That's right. You look like you're from the village. Mind if we have a talk?"
Poor Ogerpon. He really doesn't deserve to be treated like an outcast. The people back in history were shameful, weren't they?