Mermaid Legends of Paldea

by MegaSalamence64

A Young Mermaid form Hoenn, The Son of a Famous Professor, The Young Champion Ranked Heiress and President of the Naranja Student Council and a Hacker Girl whom's the leader of fellow Builled Students are about to face the biggest Adventure of their Lives as Legends of the Merfolk rises form the Depths (Mermaid!Juliana) (Semi-Adaptation of Hidden Treasures of Area Zero)

7. Chapter 6 Rising Mysteries

Pokémon: Mermaid Legends of Paldea

A Pokémon Scarlet Mermaid Novel

Written by MegaSalamence64

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Author's Note:

Hey Guys, MegaSalamence64 Here,

Welcome back to another Mermaid Legends of Paldea Chapter! ;)

Don't have much to say here so Enjoy the Chapter! ;)

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Chapter 6: Rising Mysteries

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World of Pokemon, Paldea Region, Before the Trip to Kitakami, Mezagoza City, Raifort's Apartment:

"This just in, Marco Cosmos has been broken into the Night before with a Mysterious Thief managing to wound the Security force of the Vault in the Former Rose Tower (That is currently undergoing reconstruction as the Galarian Battle Tower Facility)" Said a News Anchor Lady as she looked into the Screen and Spoke in front of the Camera to the Audience.

On the Screen was very blurry footage with a Vague figure approaching a Safe located in the Depths of the Lower Flowers of the Former Marco Cosmos Tower (Protected by a Glass Case for extra protection with Several Lasers and Cameras surrounding it), Which the Figure quickly Threw a Smoke Bomb (That looked rather in the Room, Covering the area in Smoke before launching what appears to something Sticky which disables the Carmeras and causing it to be blocked before being disabled as well.

"Interestingly, the Only Thing stolen was the Pokeball containing the Darkest Day…With everything else remaining oddly intact however…." Said the News Anchor as she continued her speech.

"But What Little Video Footage was captured shows that the Thief has used ancient Techniques and Smoke Bombs form the days of Ancient Sinnoh but all know records are unknown about th-"

'BBZZ-TT!'

'Tch…. So far… Yet so close….' Cursed Raifort as she offed the TV in her Apartment, Relief that the annoying sound of the Television and looked into her own personal notes and documents about both the Treasures of Ruin… and the Merfolk that once originated form Ancient Sinnoh/Hisui…

The News in Galar wasn't a Big Deal for right now as while the Past/History was her obsession,

Her attention is moreso on the Mythos of Paldea (like the Treasure of Ruins) as well as the Mysteries of the Merfolk and their Origins in Hisui compared to it,

But if there's one silver lining she's feeling right now, It's that this incident won't effect her in any way whatsowever (Especially given her criminal Past as well is something she knew made her on thin ice when she was hired as one of the Staff in the Academy… Especially that being the reason why she never tried to get the Treasure of Ruins herself for fear of losing her job (That and also how she's not pure hearted enough to pull out the Stakes sealing the Four Legendaries that destroyed Paldea Two Thousand Years ago)

And now that the Wretched Boy Avern's Precious Parents: Professor Sada and Turo are long gone, she can focus full time on her research while enjoying her two Rivals being presumed Dead or Gone form whatever was in the Crater of Area Zero.

'Tch… How's it like to be gone form the Picture eh, Sada and Turo?' She sneered to her two Arch Rivals as she threw a Dart on the Pictures of the Two Paldean Professors with a sense of Spite in her tone and Movement….

Raifort never liked Sada and Turo given they took the Credit that rightfully belongs to her… Same with the Boy that produced…. He was someone she loathed with all her heart about him…

While Arven was rarely in School (Even before the Infamous Bullying Incident that created Team Star and forced the Old Staff lead by Director Harrigton to step down for their failures and replaced by Director Clavell and the New Staff (herself included) by Geeta herself)

Things definitely did NOT help with the New Transfer Student form Hoeen named Juliana showing some degree of affection between them…

'I know that Girl has something off to her… and I know just why….' She thought to herself while glancing at a Photo of the Hoennian Native taped next to Avern as Raifort knew Dendre (That annoying Gym Teacher) often has a habit of sneaking off when she's free to vist Tulip the Psychic Gym Leader whenever possible….

And with the Occurrences that happened near the Sea… And Juliana being an Exempted Student form this via her Dear old Uncle (That was told to Dendre as well) about Water Exercise means only one thing….

The Girl must be a Mermaid like Tulip's likely is (Something she tried to confront Dendre about but fail to do so given how close the two of them are, especially when they're a couple as well)..

But right now, She's trying to find some salvageable enjoyment of getting the last laugh over Sada with the news about her Death becoming Public recently (Abit with Juliana, Arven, Nemona and Penny spared form this as well)

'Tch…. Guess who's getting the Last Laugh over some dumb pipe dream of Paradise eh Sada? You already lost when Turo left you the day your brat was b-"

However before she can rant even more about her former Rivals, She then heard a Knock on the Door… Which she scowled before rushing to the Door…

'Hrggghh…. Another annoying person wanting to bother me…' She grumbled to herself as she approached the Door, Ready to give an earful for whatever was at it (Abit hopping it's not one of her fellow Teachers, Director Clavell or Worse, La Primera AKA Geeta herself since she still need her job after all)

"Who is it…." She said as she opened the Door, To Reveal a Blond Man in Sinnohian Hiker Gear looking at her.

"Well, Well, Well….Miss Raifort… I been looking for you…." Said the Man as he smiled back to Raifort, his

"What do you want? You're not a Salesman, Get out before I-"

"Uh-Uh-Uh! Wait a second there my Dear Raifort!" Said the Man as he looked back to her, Abit with his face still not looking directl. "I got the tools you need to help make your desires come true…"

"Tch.. and What makes you think I'll accept an offer form you?" Questioned the Dark Skin History Teacher of Naranja Academy as the Man Simply chuckled at this, no doubt aware this may happen….

"Well, Miss Raifort, Does the Name of Hisui ring a bell to you?" He said as he finally looked directly into her eyes, As Raifort looked into his face, Grey Eyes with an unnerving energy looking directly into her own like a Seviper glaring at it's prey before it devours it.

It was similar to a fellow Historian she knows very well (Abit in the Form of watching her online and her connections/love for history instead of her rather Infamous Reputation as what many calls the Strongest Champion in the World) if the Blond (With several Grey Streaks showing) hair wasn't any indication…

But more importantly however, The Stranger's Face is one she knows quite well form the History Books, Documentaries, Legends dating during the days of Hisui to the Galaxy Team setting foot there as well it become the Sinnoh Region….

He was never mentioned much in the History Books, but he was known by the few whom recorded his history as the Treacherous Merchant as well as the Advocate of Giratina… And by all logic, he should have been dead now, but now?

She was seeing him in the flesh and blood.

"You're… Your Volo?!" Said Raifort in shock at the Man standing in front of her, No doubt it was actually THE Volo form the Ancient days of Hisui before it became Sinnoh.

The Man simply let out a laugh and this and simply smirked at this turn of events.

"Well, looks like compared to some fools, you do know your History Well, Miss Raifort…." Admitted Volo with a Smirk on his face, Both form how he knew he found a good peon for his new plans as well as someone whom (As the Internet apparently puts it) does their homework unlike those moronic Buffoons with questionable hairstyles he murdered fairly recently as well in Galar to acquire some very special Pokemon to help him with his new plan to dethrone Arceus as well)

"Indeed, I am Volo…. and would this suffice for a Deal Miss Raifort?" Questioned Volo as he took out two Pokeballs…

And two rusted Weapons, A Sword and a Shield alongside them as well….

Despite the Pokeballs being normal, Raifort knew what the Weapons were…. An Ancient Weapon in the Galar Region to be exact….

"They're all yours if you can help me find this Devine Tempest Trident..." Volo continued with his smirk still present on his face as he kept his glance on Raifort as well.

Raifort remain slient at this as she remain on her guard about the strange man, No doubt still shocked to see an ancient person standing before her eyes as well.

Her mind is still hesitant on trusting Volo as wether he really was the Real Deal or a man pretending to be him is something she knows she should be careful about despite the tempting deal of rare power

"Plus, I am curious about the Possible Mermaid you got there…." He continued as he glanced towards the Picture of Juliana in the Room, No doubt he was talking about her as Raifort looked back.

"Well, I Suppose I can help with those Treasure of Ruins you so desire as well…" Volo continued as he sneered back to the woman (whom he was about to make his new peon) as he pointed to several of Raifort's Books, Many of them documenting the Four Legendaries borned form Negative Emotions.

"I know just the way to unseal them at least."

Raifort always has a Fascination with those four legendaries, but what prevented her from getting them was the Stakes that can only be unsealed by a pure hearted trainer.

But she knew it was a risk since her job is at stake as well as her criminal past would no doubt get kids suspicious if they found out what she really wanted…

But as much as she doesn't know what to expect form Volo, He may be her ticket to finally obtained the creatures she desire the most as well as finally becoming more famous then Sada and Turo (Especially with the Weapon of the Hero of Hisui in her grasp)

"Tch… Count me in…." Said Raifort as Volo smirked at this as the former took the Two Pokeballs and Rusted Weapons form the latter, A Dark Alliance between them being born form this right now….As both their Fingers are crossed behind their back as they smirked back to each other.

"Good… Now tell me more about the Mermaid in your Academy… What she's like?" Said the Man as he glanced towards the Picture of Juliana….

A Dark Smirk appearing on his Face as he did… Malicous Intent already being planned for the Girl in the picture as his train of thought continues down it's dark path to his newest plan….

"Well she's a new student whom moved into Paldea form Hoenn after the Fiasco with Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre, She's also apparently the second student to become a Champion Ranked Trainer in her First Year as well." Raifort admitted, Hiding her jealously for how a Suppose nobody student like Juliana became a Champion Ranked Trainer like Nemona as well (Whom was enrolled a Year After the Team Star Incident but managed to not only become a Student Council President but also a Champion Ranked Trainer in her First Year as well)

"I See…" Said Volo as he smirked back at this, "Now about the Devine Tempest…"

"If we're going to get it… We're going to need some Special Relics as well…"

Volo continued as he looked back to Raifort, The Dark skin woman already getting more and more interested by this, As a History Fanatic she knew such a thing cannot be ignored.

"Well I'm all ears for it right now… So tell me about them about these Relics and why they're so important for our goals…" Raifort continued as she smirked at this turn of events.

"Very well…." Said Volo as he smirked back at Raifort, Their Plan already brewing into Action as well,

Ready to finally obtain what they believed should be theirs as well.

(XXXX)

World of Pokemon, Land of Kitakami, Oni Mountain, While Juliana, Penny and Kieran are at Loyality Plaza,

"Tch, It's rough not having a Ride Pokemon with you right now…" Raifort admitted as she looked around the Mountainous area that was the Oni Mountain, No doubt the rough terrain of the mountain was quite a struggle for her since none of her Team were consider Ridable Pokemon to help scale the tall mountain (Especially with HMs being now null and void with the inclusion of Ride Pokemon as well)

Sure she has Gengar but she mostly saves him for when it's needed to teleport out of a bad situation.

'But I have to admit, This Mountain does look good to say the least… Same with the View, This is history in the making for sure.' she thought to herself as she looked at Oni Mountain form where she stands right now.

The Mountain that marks the Centre Piece of Kitakami (Much like Mt Coronet for Sinnoh and the great Crater/Area Zero for Paldea) and named for resembling an Oni/Orge's Horns at the peak and often a place many of the locals don't venture upwards in fear of the Fearsome Orge/oni that resides in the Dreaded Den in this Fearsome Mountain.

After managing to slip away form Miss Briar and Jacq, Raifort was currently searching for a way to the Crystal Pool at the Peak of the Mountain, To Retrive one of the 5 relics (The Orb of Souls to be exact) to unlock the seal on the Devine Tempest (As without them, She and Volo can't get the Devine Tempest as they won't be able to break the seal on it without the relics protecting it)

However, the more she scaled the Mountain, The more she felt how bizarre it feels right now.

It almost feels like being near the Crater of Paldea for her even if her attempts to sneak into the place has either been in failure or something that forces her to retreat to avoid losing her job.

Even if she didn't managed to step into the Depths of Paldea's Signature natural landmark, She can still sense some Tera Energy flowing via how her Tera Orb is reacting the more she scales it.

'Guess this place has some connection to Terastalization beyond the Crystal Orb then….' Thought Raifort to herself she then felt a sudden wind approaching which she soon saw a large figure rushing in her direction (No doubt a Garchomp if one has really good vision)

'Crap!' Raifort thought to herself as she quickly retreated towards a Nearby boulder to hide herself form the Person who saw her,

Only it wasn't just a person, it was two people (Both Woman, One Blond and One Platinum Blond) riding on said Garchomp as the Blond Woman got off first followed by her Platnium Blond Companion (With her Lucario) and the Latter's two Pokemon are with by her side.

And it was someone Raifort knows very well form her Status and Popularity as the Champion of Sinnoh but also a Fellow Historian as well.

"Are you ok Diantha?" The Blond questioned her friend as she smiled back to her as she and her Pokemon gotten off Garchomp's back.

"I'm fine Cynthia…." Diantha answered back to her friend as their Pokemon looked back to them (Meera was held by Auruoa as well)

"But I have Admit, This Area is making me feel odd to say the least…" Continued the Kalosian Mermaid Princess as she looked to her right arm,

Which was showing some white mermaid scales growing on it, Barely visible right now but present as well.

"Indeed… Even if Terastalization can occur outside of Paldea, Few Places have natural Tera Energy outside of Paldea and thus, Not a practical idea to use it outside of said Region.

"But now? I guess Kitakami is one such place where there's natural Tera Energy…." Cynthia continued as she looked upwards at the Peak of Oni Moutain.

"You think there's some connection to Tera Crystals and the Ultimate Weapon?" Said Diantha as she looked back to Cynthia whom remain slient

"Well, I haven't been to Paldea Much beyond some discoveries about the Treasure of Ruins, But form what I heard form Augustine after the Incident with Team Flare, He did mentioned that the Ultimate Weapon has similar energy to the Tera Crystals found in Paldea…" Cynthia continued as she recalled her fellow student (And Both the Current Kalosian Professor as well as one of Diantha's Close Friends) working with Professor Rowan recently comparing the Tera Crystals in Paldea with the Crystals found in Galar and comparing their energies if they're similar or not.

"Heck, Glimmora's tied to Terastalization and with it's Mega Evolution, there's a Possiblity Tera Energy has a Link to Mega Evolution as well (Even if Said Mega Evolution of Glimmora does somehow resemble the Ultimate Weapon however)

"I Suppose…" Diantha admitted as she smiled back to her friend, A Sense of discomfort appearing as she recalls Geeta's Glimmora, Her Cecaelia Arch Enemy and her Signature Pokemon bringing some unpleasant memories for the Kalosian Mermaid Princess right now, Especially with how the Afromentioned Mega of Glimmora rubs her off in a bad way for looking similar to the Horrifying weapon that ended the Kalosian War 3000 years ago and almost caused genocidal extinction for the People of Kalos no thanks to Team Flare reviving it as well,

Especially with how Geeta TRULY IS as a Person that only few know about.

"Don't worry about it right now Diantha…." Said Cynthia as pet her friend on the Shoulder. "Just focus on other stuff and not Geeta for the time being."

"Thanks Cynthia." Said Diantha as she let out a Palafin Squeak as She and Cynthia continued their search in Oni Moutain, Ready to look for anything tied to Hisui or the Merfolk

As Lucario was busy keeping a watchful eye on his trainer and her Mermaid Friend, He wasn't aware Raifort was nearby, hiding behind a boulder to avoid being seen by them as well.

'Arceus Dammit!' Raifort thought to herself in frustration as she knew that someone like Cynthia would be in Kitakami (No doubt a historian/archaeologist would take an interest to coming to what is considered a League-less Region as well)

And being a Professor in one of the World's most Famous Academies is one she can't risk losing her own job over if since the Devine Tempest is her Current target to truly become more famous then her Rivals as well.

She can't scamper away right now as she knew Cynthia's Lucario can sniff her out via his Aura (Meaning the best idea is to wait till the two champions leave or make sure she slips away without raising too much attention)

But before she can dwell even further, she soon spotted something with the two Champions, Diantha specially.

'Wait is that?' Raifort thought to herself as she looked at the Kalosian Champion's Bracelet,

Besides it's obvious crystal appearance, The Bracelet was similar to the One Volo shown her on the Scroll he has about the Devine Tempest and the Five Relics that was needed.

The Bracelet of Beauty to be exact.

While it may appear to be just a coincidence right now, it does appear Arceus was being generous right now, A Chance to kill two Rookidees with one Smack Down Attack is a Gold Mine ready to happen as well.

'Well this is interesting…' She continued to herself as she shot one final look onto Diantha's Bracelet as no doubt one of the 5 relics she needs right now before sliently making her escape with Cynthia's Lucario busy with his trainer to notice her.

If she plays her cards right, She'll have two relics to bring back to Paldea, and thus, two steps closer to her (and Volo's) goal to the Devine Tempest once they get Juliana as well.

'Guess I better lay low first since the Orb's the main target but I suppose the Bracelet is an added bonus now…' Said Raifort as she smirked to herself form deeper in the Oni Mountain Cravens to make sure neither Cynthia or Diantha notices her.

(XXXX)

Meanwhile with Juliana, Penny and Kieran, Kitakami Hall:

"Well, Looks like we're here…." Said Juliana as she, Penny and Kieran arrived at the Kitakami Hall, The Site of the Festival of Masks.

It was considered a traditional Kantionian/Johtonian Temple would look like as there were various people setting up stalls and other booths for the celebration of the History of Kitakami's Greatest Legend.

The Hall that was the Centerpiece of Square as the Red Temple up ahead was present with several stalls being set up for the big event of their homeland (Well as big as a Small Village sandwiched between Johto and Sinnoh that is)

It does bring some good memories for Juliana as before she moved to Paldea, She would come to Summer Festivals with her Family to celebrate them together

Those moments held close to Juliana's Art as the Young Mermaid and her Mother can't live with her Father and Uncle for long periods of time due to having to keep their Mermaid Natures a Secret form the public (Thus forced to live separately with Juliana and her Mother living with their Merfolk Tribe),

But however, Said Festivals were one of those opportunities for the Family to be together, With Juliana having a lot of fun as well with her Father there as well.

'It's been a while since I been to a Summer Festival…' Said Juliana to herself as she looked as she smiled back the nostalgic memories of her childhood, memories of stuff like the Festival lights, games and food entered her mind

"(So sis, Are you exicited?)" Said Quaval as she and Tastu looked back to (The Rest of Juliana's Team (Save for the former two Pokemon and Koraidon) returned back to their Pokeballs with Juliana's Egg still in her hands)

"Well you can say that Quaval…" Said Juliana as she smiled back to her Starter as Tastu look back in surprise.

"(R-really?)" Squeak the Shiny Tastugiri as he looked back to his Trainer/Mermaid Sister.

"Yup! But don't worry Tastu, It won't be scary to say the least." Juliana admitted with a Smile on her face as she did.

(E-eh ok then Julie… If you say so…)" Tastu answered back with a small nod as Quaval smiled back to him,

"Well, guess they're still preparing the Festival for Tommorrow…" Said Kieran with a Sigh as he looked towards the Aforementioned Hall, no doubt there was people setting up the Stores and Booths for the Traditional festival

"Guess it make since, we did arrive a Day Earlier compared to what is usually the time this Exchange field trip occurs." Said Penny as she and Juliana looked at the Temple.

"So Kieran, About those Masks, Where are they?" Said Penny as she looked back to Kieran, The Cecaelia remained slient before pointing to the temple ahead of them.

"The Masks are located there after the Orge defeated the Loyal Three and their remains were buried back in Loyality Plaza…" He answered back. "Sadly they're not allowed to be seen for the Public outside of the Festivals however…."

"Well I guess it make sense…" Juliana continued as Penny nodded in agreement over this, before the Latter notice the Signpost near a Triangular Gate leading further up the Mountain

"Still, we should read the Sign first at least…" Said Penny as she looked back to her Friends as she

The Orge possessed four mysterious, glimmering masks

It is said that depending on the Mask the ogre donned the power of it's Cudgel would change

When wearing the teal mask, it could bring life back into withered greenery around it

When wearing the crimson mask, it could turn a candle's flame into a raging inferno

When wearing the blue mask, it could stop the very flow of a river

When wearing the ashen grey mask, it could easily break the hardest of stone into two

Before the Loyal Three Fell, they wrested away three of the Ogre's Masks, Greatly weakening it.

"So apparently the Masks can change the Orge's Type… Interesting…" Said Penny as she looked back to the Signboard and it's words.

"Just like Arceus and his Plates…." Said Juliana added onto as while the Myths of the Merfolk's origins aren't well docuemented among their kind with only the conflict between the Royal Hisuian Princesses/Sisters that led to them being cursed and exiled to the depths of the Oceans for their impulsive behaviour and punishement for endangering their own people and region as well via Arceus himself.

To the Merfolk, Arceus was in a way their Creator even if their ancestors were once humans as well,

So maybe this Orge's tied to Arceus as well, But with Terastalization, It's likely similar to that instead however.

"Oh yeah, Arceus's cool and all but the Orge is pure awesome!" Kieran suddenly added on.

"Really?" Juliana questioned with Surprise as while the Legend with the Loyal Three and the Fearsome Orge isn't something she and Penny aren't so into right now (Especially with the Strange feelings she has gotten form Loyality Plaza as well as the Item in the General Store (Peachy's as Penny mentioned while they're climbing up to Kitakami Hall) not exactly making her feel comfortable right now)

"Well think about it Juliana, The Orge managed to take down three Pokemon in one fell Swoop, It's that powerful! It's not even blessed like the Noble Pokemon of Hisui or even one of Arceus's Own Kids! It's doesn't seem different form most non Legendary Pokemon but it took down Three Pokemon at once as well! What's not to like about it."

"Well I guess you can say that at least…." Juliana admitted with a shocked look on Kieran's face as he explains it, No doubt shocked about how into the Orge of this legend he was.

"Still, About Koraidon, Is he Really a Legendary? And how do you have him on hand when you got a full Team Juliana?" Kieran questioned as Juliana just chuckled at this.

"Yeah Koraidon's a Legendary, But he's not in a battling mood right now, Plus he's Registered as my Ride Pokemon by Director Clavell" Juliana admitted with a smile as the Ancient Legendary smiled back to the Kitakami boy with a smile.

"He did tell me as long as I don't use him in an Official Battle, It's fine I can have him as my Ride Pokemon as well." She continued, Careful not to bring up Sada, Her Death or the Battle against the Paradise Protection Protocol (Which Clavell agreed that it was less of a trainer battle and more self-defence so he was willing to let that one side for the time being.)

"…Ok then." Said Kieran with some shock at how Juliana was quite casual about Koraidon yet didn't make a big fuss about it as well.

'Can't believe Mother really entrust her with a Pokemon like Koraidon…' The Male Cecaelia thought to himself as he looked back at Koraidon, Still thinking of his Mother Geeta and how the Cecaelia seemed more interested in Juliana (And Nemona) compared to him and Carmine whom she often treated as nothing more then her eyes in areas she can't get in as well like the Blueberry academy.

It was hard to be treated like dirt by your own Mother when she's focused on other children that's not even her's… and it doesn't help that the Orge for Kieran was a Sign of power as well as some light in the darkness form the abuse he and Carmine went form Geeta as well.

"You know, Let's get the Photo done and over with." Said Penny as Juliana nodded back in agreement.

The Trio then took their Selfie with the Signpost and were soon of into the final Signpost at the Paradise Barrens.

(XXXX)

Land of Kitakami, Paradise Barrens:

To say the Name Paradise Barrens is an unusual one is quite an understatement to say the least for many.

While it's second half was accurate with how it was quite the Rocky Area, Someone must have been on something when naming the Place Paradise as well since it's anything but a paradise (Unless you're a Rock or Ground Type (Or any Pokemon that likes rocky terrain in general) then this place would be paradise for you)

"Guess we know Nemona, Arven and Carmine been here already…" Said Penny as she looked at the Rumble in the Surrounding Area, No doubt caused by a Pokemon Battle as well as she and the others got off Koraidon and headed towards the final Signpost as well.

"True…" Said Juliana with a small chuckle of nervousness as no doubt it's clear Nemona's Love for battle was the understatement of the Century, (Like most of her Brain is hotwired for Pokemon Battles as well though she still carries some common sense at least given she's both a Champion Ranked Trainer but also the Current Student Council President of the Narjanja Academy as well)

"Well here we are the Final Signboard…." Said Penny as she, Juliana and Kieran approached it, The Trio then began to read it as well.

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 shadow is 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 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 this is your face, your soul be forfeited. And you shall never return to the village

When she read it, Juliana felt a sense of mixed opinions like the first signboard of the Loyal Three's Sacrifices (With their Memorial already sending her red flags due to her Palafin Nature

Penny on the other hand, Felt a sense of disgust at this, No doubt having a sense of Deja-vu about the tensions she saw and heard about her friends after (Not helped by the Distrust Team Star share for the Academy)

'This is starting to remind me of Brandy and his gang more and more…' Said the Galarian Girl whom scrowled at the memories of her time in the Academy before she meet Juliana.

This Signboard was already reminding her of the false rumors the Bullies spread about she and her friends, And it doesn't appear to paint the Orge in a good light as well.

Coupled with Juliana's strange feelings she felt recently, It's clear it's better to take the Photo and get it over and done with, Which Kieran nodded in agreement as well.

"Alright here goes…" Said Juliana as she took out her Rotom Phone and snapped a Sefie to the Final Signpost, Completing the tour in the process.

"Well that should be it, Let's head back n-" Said Penny as she then saw Juliana looking in shock at her Egg, With Goo, Tastu and Quaval looking in surprise at this (The Former especially for her new little sibling)

"Juliana! Your Egg! It's hatching" Said the Galarian Girl as she and Kieran looked in surprise as Juliana quickly placed the Egg and it's Incubator down, Which it started to Glow even more as the Hoennian Mermaid removed the Cover of the Incubator,

The egg soon burst open to reveal a baby Seal Pokemon that's dark blue with a big clown like nose, A Poplilo to be exact.

"Pop-pop!" Said the baby Seal Pokemon as it then looked at Juliana whom she realized she could be her mother.

"Well, It may be a Concidence but I guess it's fitting Juliana." Said Penny as she looked back to her friend.

"Hey Poplilo, I'm Juliana, Your new Trainer…. And your Mama…" She said with some Palafin Clicks form her mouth.

And before she can continue, Poplilo leaped into Juliana's arms and began to snuggle her as much as possible.

"(MAMA! MAMA!)" Said the Poplilo as Juliana chuckled and squealed as her new daughter/team mate snuggles her even more.

While Penny simply smiled back at this, Kieran remained slient, as he clenched his fists for a bit at what should have been with him and his own Mother, no doubt the only thing Geeta gives him and Carmine were punishements should they fail their tasks given form her.

"Well, now let's get going back to Mossui town…" Said Kieran as the others nodded in agreement, Juliana holding her new born daughter/teammate (After returning the rest of her Team back to their Pokeballs) as they and Koraidon rode back to Mossui Town.

(XXXX)

Sometime later, Mossui Town:

Sometime afterwards, Juliana, Penny and Kieran soon arrived back at Mossui Town where not only was Jacq, Raifort (Whom has arrived back after her little attempt to get to the Crystal Pool and moments before Jacq and Briar could find out where she was) and Briar awaiting them but also Arven, Nemona and Carmine waiting for them as well.

"Hey Guys! Are you all ok?" Said Juliana as she rushed towards Nemona and Arven as the former smiled back to her.

"Yup! All Good Amigo!" Nemona said with a smile as Arven rolled his eyes at this before noticing Juliana as he smiled back to her, Blushing appeared on their checks as they did, Which penny notices but shrugs and moves towards her friends.

On the other hand, however, Carmine's expression was already sour form her lost against Nemona yesterday, but right now, she's almost ready to scream out a hyper voice at Nemona right now (If she can learn it that is, since even if she's part Pokemon due to being a Cecaelia, Carmine being a Malamar Cecaelia means she can't learn hyper voice right now as Hyper Voice wasn't a move the Malamar Line can't learn)

'Thank Arceus that's over….' Carmine cursed to herself as she then noticed her brother whom she quickly gave a look back as he followed her a small distance away form the Paldea Gang, No doubt to discuss some plans about their next move while Juliana, Arven, Nemona and Penny continued to chat as Nemona revealed her New Pokemon she caught in the Barren paradise while Juliana revealed her new Baby Poplilo.

"Well that's neat Juliana!" Said Nemona with a large grin and eager attitude. "Poplilo sure fits someone like you!"

"Thanks Nemona," Said Juliana with a smile as Nemona winked back to her friend, Both of them, Arven and Penny relief that the latter didn't spill the beans about the Former's Mermaid nature in the public.

"So when did you caught Jangamo-o?" She questioned with curiosity. "Just curious to know."

"Oh, I actually caught her while we're in the Barren Paradise…" Said Nemona as she smiled back to her friend as her mind went to when they caught the Small dragon Pokemon:

(XXXX)

While Nemona, Arven and Carmine are in Paradise Barrens,

"Ah, A Jangamo-o! It'll be great to catch here!" Said Nemona as she laid her eyes on the Base Form of the Pesudo Legendary of Alola, While Arven and Carmine watched with the latter still showing anger at the girl that became a Champion and treated better by her own mother then she was.

"Cetitan! Let's go!"

Nemona's Cetitan emerged form his Pokeball as he let out a mighty roar as he looked back to his new foe, The Small Dragon standing her Ground as she let out a Noble Roar attack, Lowering the Attacking Stats of her foe.

"Not bad, But Alright Cetitan! Ice Shard!" Said Nemona as her Ice Whale Pokemon fired Several small Ice shards at his Foe.

But Jangamo-o remained resilient as she slammed herself against the Ice shards with an Iron Head attack, Shielding her form the Ice as she tried to ram herself into her foe,

But Nemona just smirked however as she looked to Cetitan whom nodded in agreement as the Ice Whale opened his mouth as his foe got near,

Quickly chomping him down with an Ice Fang, Freezing her before tossing her upwards,

"Alright Ultra ball go!" Said Nemona as she threw her best shot at the Jangamo-o's frozen body with an Ultra ball, Which actually managed to make contact with it, Sucking the Dragon Pokemon Inside.

Three shakes of the Pokeball and Jangamo-o was caught!

"Alright! I got a Jangam-o/Cectitan!" Said Nemona as her Ice whale roared in agreement as she soon saw Arven walking up to her.

"I suppose that's a great catch Nemona…' Said Arven as Nemona smiled in happiness at this compliement.

"Aw thanks Arven!" She said with a smile as Carmine approached her while giving some mumbles at this.

"Well, I'm surprised you didn't use a Quick Ball Nemona…" Carmine snarked back to the Champion Ranked trainer, trying to not lose her cool right.

"Well, I do need to train Cectitan at least since it's been a while since I used him." Nemona answered back with a Shrug,

"Ok, Can we just go to the next Signpost now!" Carmine shouted while trying not to flare up and make herself look worse for the Narjanja Students (And the Girl whom 'stole' her Mother's love form her)

"Well I Suppose so, Let's go!" Said Nemona as she rushed off to the next destination of a Signpost while Arven just rolled his eyes as he followed his friend to their next destination

Neither of them are aware that Carmine was still boiling in rage at her, barely restraining herself at the moment as she begrudgingly followed Arven and Nemona to the Next Signpost in Kitakami documenting their most famous myth.

(XXXX)

"Well that's interesting…." Said Juliana with a smile on her face, No doubt Nemona's getting slightly better with Catching Pokemon after what happened in Area Zero. "But glad to hear that you did well with your new Catch Nemona…"

"Yup!" Nemona added on with a Grin and a determined look in her eyes. "Since we have two new Pokemon, Let's give them some good first battles to help shape them up n-"

"Easy there Incineraor…" Said Penny as she quickly put her hand on Nemona's Shoulder. "Juliana's Poplilo's not even register under her or even in a Pokeball yet, Don't rush things so easily."

"And Besides, We're not only tired right now but we should take it easy to not look like loudmouth City Folk at least to the Villagers."

"Well that's a Shame….But you're right Penny" Said Nemona to the Team Star Leader as she looked back to Juliana as she smiled back to her Battle Bestie/Rival.

"But at least we finished all three signposts at least." She continued as Carmine and Kieran approached them as well with the Three Teachers on this trip joining in as well.

"Well I take you all have completed your Guide Tours?" Said Miss Briar as she, Raifort and Jacq approach the Six of them.

"Yup! All Completed!" Said Juliana as she showed them the Three selfies she took for the trip, Nemona doing the same as well.

(XXXX)

Sometime later, At the Mossfell Confluence:

"So I take things went well with you, Penny and Kieran Julie?" Arven Questioned as he was currently wearing his Merman Necklace as he and Juliana are currently swimming together in Merfolk forms as their Pokemon (That can swim) are currently by their side as well with Juliana's new Poplilo swimming next to her older siblings (Clod Volunteered to be rotated out for Poplilo and currently with her Mother right now back home via the Pokemon Box Transfer System, Though Juliana promised to bring him back to the team tomorrow as well) as Quaval smiled back to her new Sister/teammate as well with Juliana's even wearing the Bra she has gotten form Miss Tulip whom encountered her and Arven when they're having their first date out together in their Merfolk Forms.

With them showing that they completed their Guided Tour (And passed as well too), The Students are free to do what they want for the rest of the day since the first day of the Festival of Masks won't occur till tomorrow night.

For Carmine and Kieran, The Siblings simply went back home for the Night while Nemona went off to Train her new Jangamo-o which Penny accompanied her to make sure she doesn't get lost or anything (Even she admitted she rather stay and watch Anime for the Night, She doesn't want to risk one of her new friends to go MIA at any point as well)

Plus, Besides Juliana wanting to soak in the water as her true self, Arven also wanted to check on her which Juliana was also happy for as it was a chance for them to spend time together (A Pesudo date like the one they had that lead to Juliana getting her shell bra form Tulip (Whom's a Fellow Mermaid as a Gift)

"Yup! Nothing much happened beyond Poplilo's Hatching at least…" Said Juliana as Poplilo was snuggling next to her as well, No doubt getting used to her new Mama as well.

"(And how Goo's feeling right now, She's happy to play Big Sis as well too…)" Quaval added on with a smirk as Arven's Cloyster smirked back as well.

"(Interesting….)" She said to Juliana's Pokemon as while only the Mermaid Can understand her due to Arven not being a Natural Merman,

It was interesting how Juliana and her Pokemon are more like a Family then a team (Especially with how sibling like Quaval and the Former can get at times)

"So anything interesting for you Arven?" Juliana questioned as the Mermaid looked back to her friend/crush as well.

"Well if you consider Nemona's Love for battle to be unusual, it's the same for me as well.." Said Arven as his Cloyster swam by his side at that moment

"So about Kieran, He didn't try anything funny with you?" Said Arven as he looked back to his Frist Friend/Crush whom just shrug back to him.

"Fortunately No…" Juliana answered back as she blushed back to Arven whom did the same when he saw his crush blushing back to him as well.

"Well that's good to hear…" Arven continued with a smile. "Shall we continue our swim?"

"Yup!" Said Juliana with a smile as she let out more palafin clicks and her fins and tail shock as well form the chance to spend more time with her friend/crush as well.

Juliana and Arven soon enjoyed their swim together as the two Paldea Students are currently having some time together as well, under the stary night of Kitakami as Merfolk.

(XXXX)

Author's Note:

Well, I have to admit, What I did in this Chapter can be odd, But I'll explain it now:

Delaying the Festival of Masks in this story (Let's just say the Group Arrived one Day earlier then in Canon normally) is mostly for pacing for the original stuff I planned for the Teal Mask Arc (Given what I said about a certain pair of Champions seen in the last few chapters)

But rest assured things would be resuming to canon once I get the Festival at least (It'll be the Blueberry Academy when things would start to diverge form Canon as well)

Same with Juliana's Poplilo as well! (It's not in a Pokeball yet so she doesn't count as part of Juliana's Team just yet, But don't worry, Juliana won't not be cheating however so next chapter she'll also be rotating her team like Nemona in this Story.)

Also no Major Battle in this Story beyond Nemona's Capture of her New Jangamo-o, But I hope you like it.

Also, I had to include some Little Arvanna (Juliana/Arven) Moment as Merfolk as well at least, Yeah, I'll try to include some Juliana/Arven Couple moments to help build their romance at least (Basically I'm taking a page for Ander Arias (Writer of Ash and Serena's Atomic Odyssey) where they'll be romantic build up for our many Couple whenever possible to help their romance blossom as well.

If you want to know more about Julian and Arven's First Date, Here's the Link to said story:

- www. fanfiction s/141 980 35/ 12/Metamorphosis- A- Pokemon- Transformation- Story- Collection

That said, While Mega Glimmora is mentioned here, I'm going to only talk about my Altered/Custom Pokemon when they directly appear in my Story,

Hope you don't mind this.

(XXXX)

And to explain some stuff once more:

Raifort and Volo's Encounter: Yup, I know it's bad writing to not establish something first before you dive into it (That's why the DCEU wasn't as popular as the MCU when you think about it besides the Recent infamous nature of Cinematic universes being oversaturated as of late save for the Monster-verse which is)

But I admit, I was a little eager to write my Mermaid Legends Stories and hence, I made the encounter (Though I don't want to drag out the Possible Prologue out too long to say the least

So the Reason for this Scene is mostly to include the Scene Form Metamorphosis for this Fic so People could understand how Raifort and Volo meet in this Story and form their Alliance)

Plus it'll also give some Extra scenes for Raifort as well as sneak another Cynthia/Diantha moment as well regarding their search.

(And Yes, Diantha DID help against Team Flare in this Story, Let's just say Kalos uses a Lot of the Anime/Manga for it's Plot in Mermaid Legends)

What occurred in Galar in this Fic: Ok, I'm going to get his out of the way:

Despite the Fact Volo has done in this Story, GLORIA AND HOP ARE STILL ALIVE IN THIS STORY (IT'S SORDWARD AND SHIELBERT HE MURDERED IN THIS STORY), So don't worry about them, They're still in Galar, Alive and Well at least.

And if you're wondering, The SwSh DLC Basically takes the Galar Post Game's Place in the Mermaid Legends-Verse (Which is mostly just Gloria and Sonia trying to cheer up Hop over the whole deal of him unable to archive his dream via taking him to the DLC Areas to get his mind off the failure to surpass his brother)

Nemona's Jangamo-o in this Chapter: I'm sure we all know how Mochi Mayhem gave Nemona a Kommo-o (And a Ribombee/Milotic/Dusknoir depending on your Starter) during her time possessed (Or even her faking being Possessed if you follow the Theory Nemona's actually resisting/not Possessed by the Mochi) which was pointed out during the League Club meeting with her and Hassel being how she caught her (Said Kommo-o is a Female) in Kitakami (Which makes Nemona all the more suprising since she caught and train a Pokemon in a very short amount of time, That Girl's far form normal to say the least)

So while Nemona's in Kitakami form the Start in this Story instead of the Epilogue, I'm including her Epilogue Pokemon in this Story as well besides her OG Team and Canon Team for this Fic for this story as well (Hopefully I can handle Team Rotation better then Best Wishes at least)

And Yeah, Let's just say if you Play Pokemon Masters EX, Don't worry, I do plan on covering a Certain Champion's Pokemon in that Game with Nemona's at least.

Koriadon being registered as a Ride Pokemon: Now this is my Explanation for why Koraidon is on the Team.

Clavell has registered him as Juliana's Ride Pokemon in this Story during the scene with him in his Office (Basically Ride Pokemon are basically service Pokemon that is allowed beyond the Six Pokemon Limit) so Juliana can keep him on her Team as long as she doesn't use him in an Official Battle (Since the Paradise Protection Protocol isn't an Official Battle, It's still allowed Koraidon to be used as well as how it was a Life or Death Situation at that moment as well)

Hope this helps! ;)

(XXXX)

Well, That's all for now folks,

Next Chapter would be covering some time before the Festival of Masks Starts and let's just say a certain Pair of Champions would be interacting with the Paldea Gang Soon…

Take Care, Stay Safe, Watch your Health and See Ya! ;)

-MegaSalamence64