Hello one and all, to a new chapter of Pokemon SVTA where today, we will focus on Arven's introduction to the story and the last companion introduction before we move on with the main plot. After the next chapter (which will be Ash and friends heading to the champion headquaters), there will be 4 chapters left in the introduction arc before we start the prelude to the Treasure Hunt which will revolve around Ash and Nemona head to Capo Poco to grab some things for this Treasure Hunt with Arven and Penny coming along for their 'own' purposes which in reality involves following Ash thus beginning their first adventure as a group.
Here are the plans for the next 5 episodes:
*The next episode will involve Ash and the gang heading to the champion headquarters to meet the Palden Top Champion, Geeta where we learn more about her and Ash would like to battle her.
*Part 2 to Penny's introduction where we learn about her of her goal to stop Team Star in which Team Star kidnap Pikachu for TR unaware that they were tricked by TR and now Ash, Penny and TS must work together to save Pikachu while Ash gets to know more about the group personally and might even learn that they might not be all bad but misunderstood.
*Part 2 of Arven's introduction will involve Arven now trusting Ash and takes him to east gate of Mesagoza to find the 'Titan' Pokemon Klawf who is believed to be holding a Herba Mystica, but things change unexpectedly once Arven realizes how early they rushed in and he now must face reality when he was over his head and his new friend almost gets hurt. Ash will get to learn more about why Arven wants to do this sort of thing and even the emotional bonds between Arven and a special Pokemon of his.
*Part 2 of Nemona's introduction is a more laidback episode involving Ash going with Nemona to her mother's grave in Los Platos for emotional and moral support as we learn more about her champion goal, her own issues and even the Teddiursa from before.
*The last one will be filler episode based around a friendship quest in the game with Ash having to help one of his teachers whose going through an issue but I'm not sure which one I want to do but I'm thinking either Tyme or Salvatore.
But for this episode, we will focus on Arven's introduction where he and Ash must team up to find a particular ingrediant known as a 'Herba Mystica' for their home ed class when they happen across a particular Sneasel of a different color as that Sneasel steals an ingredient of theirs but for what purpose? Ash also gets to learn more about Arven's goals about this Herba Mystica and his connection to some rather famous individuals.
This episode might be the hardest to write in terms of story, but I at least want to make it interesting for you all, with that, let's begin.
After the heartbreaking events of the last episode, things have gone back to normal at Naranja academy well, as normal as it can get. We see Ash and a random male student (who had a pompadour) preparing for a battle in the battlefield via the student's request, Ash accepts the request though he decides to not use Pikachu but instead Cyclizar as he hasn't gotten any battle experience and Cyclizar wanted to battle for the first time, so Ash is granting him the wish.
the crowd was outside on this nice morning before school ready to watch the battle with Nemona acting as a refferee, Penny looking on from the crowd holding Sprigatito and Arven looking from the distance seemingly interested in Ash. This here was Arven, a student who according to Clavell is well-meaning but stubborn junior who is the son of some very famous professors but much like Penny, he seems to have an interest in Ash but why?
"Alright Cyclizar, this will be your first battle and later on, we'll train on your skills." Ash said to his Cyclizar as he began stretching preparing to fight, "Thank you for this whackytastic battle, coolio!" the pompadour student said which gets Ash's nod of approval. "My pleasure, give it you all!" Ash said enthusiastically as the pompadour student grabbed his Great Ball.
"Gladly bro, Squawkabilly come out and show your hair due to the world!" The student said sending out his Pokemon which was a blue bird Pokemon who had a rather large pompadour, and it produced a comb from its feathers to adjust its 'hair' which both intrigued and confused Ash as he got out his Pokedex which displayed 4 variations of Squawkabilly with the green form being the main while yellow, white and blue were also shown:
Squawkabilly, the Parrot Pokemon, Normal/Flying type, blue form. These Pokemon are known to be in large groups and rival the green plumage Squawkabilly's due to their large size in numbers. The blue plumage are known for being calm but are ready to fight at all times.
"So is that 'hair' feathers or actual hair?" Ash asked confused which caused the bird Pokemon's hair to suddenly rise in anger over their hair being commented on, "Well I'm unsure but also I apologize for my Squawkabilly's anger, it hates having it's hair commented on." the student said but the bird Pokemon shrugs it off and is prepared to fight. Nemona looks to the both of them, "Are you ready?" she said to the two who both say yes, "Alright, you may begin!" Nemona said as pompadour student allowed Ash to go first.
To my knowledge from Cyclizar's Pokedex, it's moves are Taunt, Rapid Spin, Breaking Swipe and Quick Attack so, Ash stopped his thought and called out a command, "Cyclizar use Breaking Swipe!" Ash commanded as Cyclizar's tail began to glow and rush towards (via quadraped running) at the Squawkabilly. "Alright Squawkabilly stop that tail!" The trainer said as Cyclizar jumped to attack and Squawkabilly grabbed Cyclizar's tail before he could attack with tremendous strength which surprised both Ash and Cyclizar.
"Impressive right? Its Hustle is what keeps her going alright!" The pompadour guy said enthusiastically but Ash had a plan, "We're just getting started! Cyclizar use Rapid Spin!" Ash yelled out as Cyclizar lifted one leg up and began to spin very fast while Squawkabilly is still holding on to the tail before being thrown off. Cyclizar stopped as orange energy was over Cyclizar boosting its speed.
"You may have a speed boost but that's not going to stop us! Squawkabilly use Fury Attack!" the trainer said as Squawkabilly's beak began to glow and rushed at Cyclizar who began to dodge back. Hustle is an ability that boosts its attacking power but lowers its aim when using physical attacks so if I keep dodging, Ash didn't have time to finish his thought as Cyclizar stumbled back and the opposing trainer sees an opportunity.
"Squawkabilly now!" the trainer said as Squawkabilly dived down to attack Cyclizar, "Cyclizar use your tail to jump in the air!" Ash said as Cyclizar curled up his tail to the ground and jumped in the air causing Squawkabilly to crash taking damage, "Squawk!" the trainer said concerned but she got back up as both Pokemon and trainer smirked. "Alright Squawkabilly, use Tailwind!" the pompadour trainer said as his Squawkabilly began flapping her wings fastly causing Cyclizar to be pushed back a bit but stands his ground.
"You alright Cyclizar?" Ash asks his Cyclizar who nods with determination, "Then we'll use that Tailwind to our advantage! Cyclizar use Rapid Spin!" Ash yelled out as his Cyclizar began to spin rather fast as he pushes through the wind to hit Squawkabilly whose flapping stopped. "You're good but that's to be expected from a champion. I'd say we finish this don't you agree?" the pompadour student tells Ash as he holds his Tera stone which Ash did the same.
"Gladly, Cyclizar ready?" Ash asks which gets a nod out of the motorbike lizard as Ash and the student throw their Tera stones towards their Pokemon to Terastalize with Squawkabilly's being the flying Tera hat (the balloons) and a Normal Tera hat which resembles a gray gem of sorts signaling that it's Normal type.
"Alright Squawkabilly Aerial Ace!" the trainer yelled out as the balloons begin to inflate and begins to charge at full speed at Cyclizar, "Cyclizar use Quick Attack!" Ash said as the gem on Cyclizar begins to pour out more gems and rushes towards Squawkabilly at blazing speeds. Both Pokemon eventually collide to create a puff of smoke which gets everyone in the audience curious as for what the outcome is, it's shown that both Pokemon have fainted with their Tera hats gone which causes both trainers to be surprised as to that outcome.
"And both trainers Pokemon are unable to battle, no one is the winner!" Nemona said to the two trainers as they went to their respective Pokemon who looked to their trainers, "You did your best Squawkabilly will beat him next time." the pompadour trainer said to his Squawkabilly, "Squawww" she said.
"That was an amazing first battle Cyclizar, we'll get em next time!" Ash said encouragingly, "Cyyy!" Cyclizar said happily as both trainers return their Pokemon to their Pokeballs and walk toward each other to handshake. "That was an amazin battle! From what I expected from a champ, thank you!" The pompadour trainer said happily which excites Ash.
"Not a problem Pompadour." Ash said, "Actually it's Dean." Dean clarifies but both eventually laugh it off as Arven is satisfied with his 'research' and walks away to his class.
We see Ash at a classroom with the excitable Dendra and her Medicham prepared to teach their students (in that class also, Nemona, Sarah and Billy were also there) not only on battling but also on health education. "Ei ei ei! (Portuguese for Hey!) I hear a new student in town and it's Ash from the other day. How's your firey spirit!?" Dendra said enthusiastically which confuses Ash but he starts to feel the fighting spirit.
"Yes/Pika!" both trainer and Pokemon say which excites Dendra, "Now that's what I wanted to hear. Osu! I will be your battling instructor and I'll also teach health education; we were supposed to have a health teacher here but due to a teacher's maternity leave and also budget, I'll be your teacher. I should ask my Miriam; she might be interested." Dendra said quietly on that last part before her fighting spirit back.
"But anyway. Ash, do you have what it takes to climb mt Glaseado while carrying a Hippopotas on your back?" Dendra said excitedly which gets Ash and Pikachu's fighting spirit up, "I carried a Hippopotas on my head, carried a Larvitar and held a rather small yet heavy orb. If I can carry those then consider a Hippopotas done!" Ash said which gets Dandra's spirits up. "Now that's the spirit my boy!" Dendra said excitedly which causes both of them to be on fire (both literally and figuratively) which makes the heat intense in the classroom.
"How are the emitting so much heat energy?" Dean said holding a fan that had a Sinnoh symbol on it, "I know we should open a window." Sarah said exacerbated, "I think you just need to take off that jacket." Nemona said tired. The door to the classroom opens to see Clavell and a Pokemon known as Cetitan walk in.
"Cetitan use Icy Wind!" Clavell says as Cetitan let out a wind of ice from it's mouth freezing Ash, Dendra and their Pokemon which shocks the students. "How did you know that Dendra was on fire?" Dean asks, "It happens every month and my Spidops senses always tells me it's in that classroom. My Spidops senses are telling me that there are churros in the teacher's lounge gotta go." Clavell said as he and Cetitan rush off to get some churros which causes the students pondering on how they're supposed to get their teacher and student out of there.
"Don't worry I got this, Delphox, come on out and lightly use Magical Fire." Sarah said releasing her Delphox who began to use its wand to create a light fire, Nemona sighs and grabs her Pokeball also. "Fuecoco lightly use Incinerate please." Nemona said as she released her Fuecoco who began lightly breathing fire on the iced individuals.
Ash would later learn that the class is inside for health classes and outside for physical classes.
We see Ash and Arven in Home Ec class with the (amazing) Saguaro who was ecstatic about having Ash upon board his class, "Ho ho, Ash you showed up to one of the most delicious classes of all the classes here. And I heard you're interested in what the food has to offer here in Paldea, is that right young lad?"
"Yes sir." Ash said nervously with Saguaro laughing it off, "Don't be afraid young lad, my ancestors have been making delicious food here for generations and so today's class will show you firsthand how to make these wonderful Paldean recipes. Your assignment today is with your table partner right next to you, you will be finding ingredients for your assigned sandwich with each ingredient listed out, but the last 2-3 ingredient is up to you for you and your partner to decide."
Ash looks to his paper to see it was a traditional sandwich with the bread, lettuce, tomato, ham, butter with the last 3 being from their choosing, Ash looks to his right to see that Arven was his partner who tried to look sophisticated but couldn't.
I'm working with the champion!? Not a problem but his optimism is certainly something Arven thought to himself as he looked to his paper, "You and your partner are allowed anywhere within Mesagoza, South Province A1, South Province A2 and South Province A3 but your borders will be with Cortondo's red grass, the bridge that leads to Capo Poco for SP A2 and halfway through SP A3 and if you're not back by the hour, I will search for you to see if you're alright."
Ash raised his hand for a question, "How will you search for us?" Saguaro then releases a Vespiquen which has also released multiple Combee to each of the 7 groups including Ash and Arven."
"Your Combee will release a different colored pheromone that will signal my Vespiquen on anything such as a blue pheromone that will signal the hour's end, the red pheromone will dictate an emergency, a yellow for infighting between the group and all these signals will be on the back of your sheet young lads and laddettes. Now you'll have the next hour and 20 minutes to search for your ingredients and if any problems arise from your respective Combee, I'll be there and go out there have some fun and remember to get along with your partner!" Saguaro said as everyone got up and grabbed their bags.
Both Ash and Arven get up from their chairs which has Ash face Arven.
"Glad to be working with you, the names Ash Ketchum!"
"So, I heard, Arven's the name and I'll be your guide. follow me!" Arven said trying to sound stoic but he more sounded like he was nervous if anything else.
"And remember to stay away from the stakes and the Artifact seals, I'm sure your history teacher reminded you of that." Saguro said as the students left.
We see Ash, Pikachu and Arven (plus a Male Combee) carrying the stuff they need for their recipe plus grabbing some soft-boiled eggs and some Watercress with Ash having a laid-back approach while Arven looked to his book of herbs, they were on their way to buy some bread From Harold's shop for the assignment with Ash wondering something about the sandwiches.
"So, I have to wonder, what's the big deal with sandwiches in this region?" Ash asks which gets Arven's attention, "Well they say that sandwiches in this region are 'mystical' in a way that can have supernatural effects from encountering more Pokemon to even seeing a shiny Pokemon which is said to be the luckiest. Ms. Raifort said in History class that it was invented by a Galarian named San D Earl and his Grookey 'Wich' after they wanted to pair something their things together rather than having it separated and apparently made its way to the ancient Paldean kingdoms and became a huge hit making it our national food in a way."
This information intrigues Ash and Pikachu, "Shiny!?" Ash said surprised which gets Arven's attention, "Um yeah, I don't know how it works but a certain aura comes from it that is said to cause supernatural effects in a way haha." Arven said rather laidback which makes Arven a bit comfortable.
While they were walking, a couple group of people are seen whispering about Arven.
"Is that the Professors son?"
"I hear he's pretty stubborn in a way getting his characteristics from his mom and his personality from his dad."
"I hear his mom is pretty quirky, maybe he'll become one of them?"
"From what I hear, he seems to resent them in a way."
"I hear he's a loner who hates having that mentioned."
"So why are we whispering then?"
"I don't know, but it's likely to progress some background plot."
All the conversation starts to make Arven uncomfortable while Ash is curious, "Arven are you alright?" Ash asks politely which causes Arven not to look at him, but he nods.
"Clavell did tell me about you though, about how you're the son of some very famous people." Ash asks which causes Arven to sigh and nod, "Of course he told you about me, Clavell is both a family friend and a former sensei to my mom so I might as well tell you." Arven said quietly to himself before turning to Ash.
"Yes, I'm the son of my mom Professor Sada who studies the past while my dad Professor Turo studies the future. My mom will flip if she sees me with you." Arven said groaning which Ash gets confused, "Am I a bad influence?" Ash asks. "No, mom is a fan of you and your Pikachu especially your Pikachu who seems to be very powerful for an unevolved Pokemon."
"Pika?" Pikachu said confused, "But isn't it awesome that your parents are famous professors!?" Ash said intrigued which irritates Arven a bit. "Don't lump me in with those Batatas! They're never around with my mom being at the lab all the time while my lame dad is in Area Zero doing whatever in there." Arven said getting Ash's attention over Area Zero.
"Area Zero?" Ash asks, "Sigh, Area Zero is the thing in the center where all paranormal activity lies. Students are forbidden from entering there lest they face detention or suspension but I'm sure more will be explained to you in the future."
"But your father cares about you right?" Ash asks the tall student, "If he did care about me, then he would've shown up to my past 14 birthdays and wouldn't have unleashed his two 'experiments' 4 months ago causing-" but Arven stops himself, "Nevermind, the point is my parents don't care, I bet your dad was always around though, I'm sure he loves to hang out with you compared to my dad."
"Actually, he's never been around." Ash said casually which causes Arven's frustrated face to turn into more of a slight frown and some regret, "Ash I- I- I'm so sorry." Arven said apologetically but Ash shakes his head.
"No, it's fine. He was never really around to begin with, my mom has always told me that the reason I never met my grandparents is that my mom and dad were in their late teens when they ran away from their respective homes and my dad only stuck around for two years before bailing. When I became a trainer, I hoped that becoming a champion would get his attention and bring him back but after so many trials and tribulations throughout the regions until I became the Alolan champion, he never showed up proving he didn't want me." Ash said causing Pikachu to jump to his shoulder to comfort him and making Arven kind of guilty.
"Ash I-" but Ash stops Arven once more, "But I'm not alone, my mom has been the kindest person out there, Professor Oak acts as both a fatherly and grandfather like figure to me. The Pokemon I befriended and caught, the companions who helped me along the way are the people I can call family in a way even after I left, we shared a strong bond that will never be broken but still, I always kind of yearned for a fatherly figure in my life and while there have been a couple, it wouldn't be until I went to the Pokemon school in Alola that I met Professor Kakui who became my father figure of sorts. He looked out for me, taught me everything I needed to know and both he and his wife are my Alolan family in a way with a little brother to boot."
"Ash." Arven said, "All those people helped me in all different ways and now that I became the World Champion, I now want to work hard to repay them all for their kindness. Now I know nothing about your parents, but your mom doesn't sound like she's a bad person. A bit busy but she sounds like a quirky individual while your dad is a bit of a mystery but- nah forget it." Ash said but Arven shakes his head. "No, I get the idea. my mom and dad aren't really despicable people but it's their ignorance at times that make a bit furious but, if you love your family that much, then you should keep loving them to the very end." Arven said encouragingly as both prepare to head in the sandwich shop.
They both head in where Harold and Charcadet go to greet them, "Ah Arvy my boy, I heard your curry the other day was simply delicious. Have you found a girlfriend or boyfriend yet?" Harold said teasingly which causes Arven to blush. "Wha- what makes you think that I have a date, Harold!?" Arven said surprised, "Oh your mom wanted to know about a girl you were walking with."
"I was helping an old lady across the street and tell mom to stop spying on my love life because I have none." Arven said starting off furiously blushing before getting comedically depressed. "You know Harold?" Ash asks to which he gets back up, "Of course! Everyone in Mesagoza knows Harold, he's been running this shop for 50 years and his family established the first sandwich shop over 155 years ago and still going." Arven said excitedly which gets a chuckle out of the old man.
"Oh, ho ho ho, you're too kind. What will it be today Arvy and Ashy?" Harold said excitedly but Arven shakes his head, "No not today, we're finding ingredients for our sandwich which I call the 'Arven Express' and we're just here to get two loathes of bread." Arven said casually which gets a nod out of the old man, "Coming right up! Stevenson, please get some loathes ready please." Harold asked his grandson, "On its grandpa!" he said getting the loathes ready before turning back to the duo.
"And Ash, how's Nemona doing? I hear she's your student now." Harold asks getting a nod out of the trainer, "Yep, she's training for the Treasure Hunt by taking on the Gym Challenge!" Ash said excitedly, "Ah, I remember doing that from a young age. I was a fire type gym leader back when I was younger, did you know Mesagoza had a gym once? Well anyway, if she's taking on the Gym Challenge, tell Nemona that the first leader she should go for is my daughter in Cortondo, she's an experienced baker and battler." Harold said which gets Ash to keep note of that in the future.
Stevenson brings over the loathes of bread in their sack and both Ash and Arven prepare to get their wallets, but Harold stops the two, "This one is on the house. After all, you do need to find that last ingredient, what ingredient are you searching for?"
Arven thinks for a moment and then opens up his book on herbs and spices and shows the exact thing they're searching for, "Ah you're going the hard route and trying to search for the Salty Herba Mystica are you?" Harold says intrigued which gets both Ash and Pikachu interested in what it is. "Say Arven, what's a Herba Mystica?" Ash asks, "I'd thought you never asked. The Herba Mystica, a mystical herb that is said to grant life healing effects, chances to encounter Shinies and is said to be very delicious with food especially sandwiches. Normally they're hard to find usually in caves, but I've been hearing rumors that they were found near dens and even just out hidden in shrubs and that's what we're aiming for in the South Province A2!" Arven said excitedly which gets Ash and Pikachu's excitement up to a high level.
"Ah is this for your Ma-" but before Harold could finish, Arven looked at him to not say anything out of secrecy, "Err I mean, I heard it's also good for your Pokemon as they might get some strength to their skills. Either way, stay safe and come back anytime and take a third loathe as well for your friends." Harold said happily giving an extra loathe to Arven. "Thank you, Harold." Ash and Arven say as they leave. Unbeknownst to Ash and Arven, the TR trio were listening in on the conversation but unlike TR's other disguises, they were using differently colored wigs following the incident a couple of days ago and with their wanted posters up everywhere and Clavell's all seeing 4 eyes, they couldn't disguise themselves normally this time around.
"You here that James, Jessie? The Herba Mystica can grant us some very powerful strength and even a chance for Shiny Pokemon to capture for the boss." Meowth said excitedly, "That's pretty cool and we'll even get to catch Pikachu at the same time!" Jessie said also excitedly. "Well then let's tally ho! After this delicious sandwich." James said enjoying his sandwich which both TR member agreed on and began to eat.
We the two heading down to the South gates and opening them up to reveal a vast landscape, "This Ash, is South Province A2 and over there is the village of Los Platos." Arven said awing both Ash and Pikachu as they looked at the vast landscape full of Pokemon interacting, trainers battling and a large village to Ash and Arven's direction which was full of life.
"Now our border is with that bridge over there, so we'll have to head west from here. You're up for a bit of running say Ash?" Arven asks stretching, "Arven, I've been traveling for two and a half years, of course I'm ready right Pikachu!?" "Pika!" which is all that Arven needed to hear. "Good to know!" Arven said excitedly. unbeknownst to them, a 'particular' Sneasel is watching from the bushes following them for this Herba Mystica.
The two walk out west where Ash sees many new and old Pokemon interact from a Marill, Psyduck and a Pawmi having a conversation, a Pokemon named Tarountula trying to confess its love to a nearby Kricketot and a nervous Smoliv trying to jump across the river with a Ralts encouraging them to do so all of which impresses the young champion. They eventually reach a forested area where a group of Pokemon (consisting of a Fidough, two Marills, Psyduck, a Spidops, 2 Tarountulas and a Ralts) go to Arven suddenly.
"Pikachu use-" "No no Ash, it's fine. they're my friends, haha." Arven said falling over when the Pokemon begin to tackle him to the ground. "Haha ok ok, I have your food one second." Arven said getting up grabbing the extra loathe of bread and tearing it for each of them. "Here you are don't fight now, and here's one for Pikachu and Combee." Arven said giving a piece to Ash for Pikachu and for Combee who began eating the pieces of bread.
Arven's Great ball begins to shake releasing a Gogoat which Ash is surprised at, "I didn't forget you girl." Arven said giving a piece to his Pokemon, "Arven, I didn't know you were friends with all these Pokemon and you had a Gogoat." Ash said surprised.
"Haha, yeah. I met these Pokemon back 6 years ago when I was 10 and on my first day of Naranja. I made myself a Paldean variant of Galar's curry though I made a bit too much it but the Pokemon here were hungry, so I shared some and the next thing you know, I decided to give them some food over the next few years and eventually my girl here as a Skiddo followed me on my first day of Naranja and I ended up catching her as soon as we got to the gate." Arven said petting his Gogoat. "That kind of sounds like Nemona right Pikachu?" "Pika!"
So, he is training Remora. Still, I don't see that impeding on my plan in the future, but I feel like I should wait on that until later Arven thought to himself which is when Gogoat starts to sniff something important which both trainers notice. "You smell something Gogoat?" Arven asks to which Gogoat immediately runs to the source causing Ash and Arven to give chase.
"I think it's what we're looking for, I'll see you next time!" Arven said waving goodbye to the group of Pokemon as Sneasel quickly runs through the shadows like a ninja. The duo and their Pokemon eventually reach the location where a bright silvery herb is found in a group of herbs which awes both trainers and their Pokemon. "This Ash is the Salty Herba Mystica. It's not the full thing but it's enough for two sandwiches."
"So how do we make them?" Ash asks the experienced cook, "We have to crush them up into this salt and pepper containers which we can then use in conjunction with the butter to create this interesting dish, could you help me grab this out?" Arven said grabbing herb which Ash and Pikachu immediately do the same getting the herb out of the bush which after lots of pulling, they eventually get it out of there with quick succession. "We did Ash, now we just need to-" but before Arven could finish, a shadow went by and snatched up the Herba Mystica.
"Hey give that back!" Ash said as they looked to the Sneasel but unlike other Sneasel's, this one was a bit peculiar. This Sneasel had a light blue/gray fur with purple shown through its face, claws and hair feather thing which perplexes both trainers. "A Paldean form of Sneasel?" Ash asks which Arven shakes his head at, "No we only have 2 well 4 forms that being Paldean Wooper and the variations of Paldean Tauros, this is something I never seen before." Arven tells Ash as he's also perplexed at the situation and the Sneasel begins to run causing the trainers and their Pokemon to run after it.
Not far away from here, the TR trio was spying the twerps and that peculiar Sneasel which interested them, "You see that, a form that isn't Paldean but could be a new form all together. Here's the plan, we'll catch that Pikachu, herbal mystical whatever and that Sneasel for the boss, is that clear!?" Jessie asks, "Yes mam!"
The duo eventually reaches an open field where they all run out of breath, but the Gogoat blocks the Sneasel's way ready to fight. "Give back the Herba Mystica and we may share some." Arven asks the Sneasel politely but to no avail.
Sneasel then proceeds to taunt both Gogoat and Pikachu who both are ready to fight this weird Sneasel, "Alright Pikachu use-" but before it could finish, another shadow appeared that resembled a regular Sneasel taking the Herba Mystica which causes the weird Sneasel and immediately rush towards the regular Sneasel but it's stomach starts to grumble causing her to drop to the ground starving which causes the trainers to go to the Sneasel's side while the other Sneasel smirks.
"You alright Sneasel?" Arven asks but is pushed away by the Sneasel as she immediately rushes to where the other Sneasel are including what appears to be an alpha male Weavile and female Weavile who begin to celebrate that Sneasel's success at 'finding' a Herba Mystica. "Snea Snea Snea!" the purple Sneasel said pointing towards her rival, the female regular Sneasel who shrugs it off and celebrates with the crew. the purple Sneasel was about to fight back but it's stomach grumbles once more.
The duo looks from the distance towards the Sneasel wondering what is happening, "You don't think that Sneasel is starving and is kind of an outcast don't think Arven?" Ash asks which causes Arven to nod, "I think so and I'm sure that Sneasel/Weavile family over there is competing for the spot as a top don of sorts with rare food as I see a bunch of berries over there. We can just go with the ingredients we have but..." Arven looks to the Pokemon who has determination in her eyes and Arven nods to himself.
"I'd say we use this bread to make a sandwich for the Sneasel." Arven said setting up a mini table of sorts, "You sure?" Ash asks the chef. "I'm sure of it, you can have my sandwich when we get back but I'm not going to let anyone go starving, neither human nor Pokemon. I won't let anyone go on an empty stomach!" Arven said as he's preparing the sandwich which features the ingredients from before (sans the Herba Mystica). Arven goes to the Sneasel who looks away disappointed.
"Look, I know you have your reasoning and we'll let you off but if you want your energy back, you're going to need to eat so you can take your spot as top don or somethin like that." Arven said to the Sneasel encouragingly, Ash is behind Arven being reminded of his encounter with his Quaxly which went in a similar direction but with a different background to which he also made a mental note to visit that orphanage in the future. The Sneasel reluctantly took the sandwich and began to eat it. Upon taking that bite, its eyes started to water up savoring the flavor and began to finish that sandwich.
Once it finished eating, it began to get up and stretch a lot more fastly and with some sort of light white energy covering it as Ash came by to check what's going on, "It looks more energize than ever." Ash said as Arven began looking at his book of Pokemon abilities. "If that energy is to be believed, it's ability Unburden has activated which increases the speed of the user if they've lost an item and considering the sandwich was an item, I think it's a lot faster now. Now go get em Ma-champ" Arven said encouragingly as the purple Sneasel walked over to the other Sneasel who taunted towards that Sneasel ready to fight.
Both Sneasel's look at each other prepared to fight and eventually, both rush at each other with their claws colliding with each other. Whereas the regular Sneasel was using sneaky tactics to avoid and strike when the time is right, the purple sneasel was rushing in without any thought or strategy.
"Snea- erm, Morada (Spanish: Purple with feminine spelling. the purple Sneasel to differentiate the two Sneasels), don't just focus on close in combat, focus on waiting for the right time to strike rather than trying to rush in!" Arven said which Morada scoffs at but decides to do it anyway by using Quick Attack to dodge Sneasel's oncoming attacks before that Sneasel eventually decides to use Quick Attack as well to rush at Morada which both Morada and Arven smirk at.
Morada's claws metalize to signal Metal Claw and strikes the oncoming Sneasel who is sent back stumbling but gets back up. "Nice one Sneasel!" both Ash and Arven say to Morada who smirks. The Sneasel begins rushing at Morada with its own Metal Claw and Morada eventually does the same clashing with each other multiple times before Morada does a literal Low Sweep and Morada's right hand starts to glow and uses Brick Break to finish things off. The other Sneasel and Weavile notice Morada's victory and begins to celebrate.
"I think that means that Sneasel is the top dog or something." Ash says as Morada looks back at the two trainers and their Pokemon who she initially antagonized and softly smiles towards them before reaching her hand out for the defeated Sneasel who initially scoffs but accepts the hand and gets up. The two Weavile look to each other and nod in agreement and hands Morada the Herba Mystica for her deed, Morada looks to the duo trainers but before she could walk to them, a mechanical hand appears and rushes towards Pikachu but the rival Sneasel from before uses Quick Attack to push the Pikachu out of the way and gets grabbed instead while a mechanical cage tries to grab Morada before being pushed out of the way by the Weavile who get captured instead and the Herba Mystica also got taken when Morada was pushed out of the way.
This shocks the trainers and look up to see a Meowth shaped hot air balloon carrying the cage and mechanical hand, "We missed but I guess these Sneasel and Weavile will do for now plus we got the herbs!" James said. "Team Rocket, I should've known. Let go of those Pokemon this instant!" Ash said which causes Arven to look at him confused.
"Team Rocket?" Arven asks, "They're a group of bad guys who want to take my Pikachu!"
"How despicable." Arven responds, "Despicable, we're just doing our jobs according to the series quo. Buh bye." Jessie said but Ash, Arven and Sneasel wasn't going to have it. "Snea Snea Snea Sneasel!" Morada said which shocks Meowth but confuses Jessie and James. "What did they say?" James said to which Meowth ushered both Jessie and James which gets Jessie noticeably mad.
"How dare you use that adult language towards me you runt! Lechonk come on out and teach those guys a lesson!" Jessie said angrily throwing Lechonk's Pokeball in the air releasing Lechonk, "Grafaiai you too bud." James said releasing Grafaiai who is ready for battle. "Arven I can take these guys on, you and Sneasel help the others!" Ash said to which Arven looked hesitantly but eventually nods and gets on his Gogoat.
"Leave it to me, Sneasel get on. We're going to help your friends." Arven said inspiring Morada who decides to get on before they eventually try to find a weak spot. "Alright Cyclizar come on out!" Ash said releasing Cyclizar who's ready to battle alongside Pikachu. "This should be interesting, Lechonk use Headbutt!" Jessie said, "Grafaiai Poison Fang!" Jams said to his Pokemon as both Pokemon begin to rush towards Pikachu and Cyclizar ready to attack.
Ash thought for a moment and came up with an idea, "Cyclizar use Breaking Swipe on both of them, Pikachu charge up your electricity in your tail!" Ash commanded as Cyclizar's tail glowed and rushed towards the two Pokemon and swung his tail towards the two of them as they were sent flying back. "Wha-" both TR members say shocked, but Ash didn't let them finish, "And I'll offer an unlimited time offer of Electro Web!" Ash said as Pikachu threw his charged Electro web towards the two of them causing an explosion to occur as both Pokemon were sent flying back to the TR duo worried.
"Lechonk my sweetie pie!" Jessie said worringly, "Graffy! Please talk to me!" James said to his bottle cap partner worried before Grafaiai used Poison Jab on James's stomach causing him to faint comedically.
"I love you too pal." James said.
"Hey wait a minute, where's the Gogoat brat!?" Meowth said before looking to his right to see that Arven raced up the cliff with Morada prepared to jump off to save her friends, "Oh no you don't!" Meowth said as he jumped off to attack. "Now!" Arven said as Morada jumped to use Metal Claw on both Meowth and the cage letting them go and Meowth was sent flying back to the duo. Fortunately, the fall wasn't very huge and Morada got back to Arven fist bumping Arven, but James gets back up ready to fight back (although purple and poisoned from Grafaiai's Poison Jab).
"Oh no you don't! Grafaiai use Metronome!" James said as the group begins to cross their fingers when Grafaiai begins to shake his fingers and creates a metalized ball which excites the group. "Yay! Flash Cannon!" All 3 say as the ball launches quickly towards the cliff Arven was at but Morada jumps in the way to defend Arven shocking him as Morada falls off the cliff.
"Morada!" Arven said jumping off the cliff to hold onto Sneasel for safety which shocks Ash, Arven's Gogoat and even TR (more so for the decision to jump off), "ARVEN!" Ash yells out prepared to run to catch him with Gogoat preparing to do the same. "Cyclizar run and catch him!" Ash yelled out as Cyclizar began to run but before anyone could catch Arven.
"Vespiquen use Defend Order to catch Arven!" Saguaro yelled out as his Vespiquen released lots and lots of tiny Combee's to have Arven be brought down to safety while Saguaro rushed to a slowly falling Arven and caught him in his arms before letting him down safely. "Are you alright young lad?" Saguaro asks Arven who nods, his Gogoat arrives to nudge him out of worry. "Ok Gogoat I'm sorry." Arven said trying to push her back while looking to the Sneasel who's surprised that Arven saved her and blushes. They look to the Combee that Ash and Arven have and realized it was emitting a red pheromone which signaled danger which is how Saguaro was able to find them.
Saguaro then looks to Ash, "Are you alright Master Ash?" Saguaro asks out of concern to which Ash nods.
"We're sorry Mr. Sagu-"
"Ash, you're fine but for now, we need to take care of these Holligans." Saguaro said referring to TR who look petrified, "So you're that Team Rocket I presume? Well then you're going with me for hurting my students which is a grave mistake." Saguaro said lowly causing them to be scared but Jessie decides to hold her ground. "Well, we were lucky for that Flash Cannon, so I'd say we do it again!" Jessie said as Grafaiai waggled his fingers once more and it chose Close Combat causing Grafaiai to jump off and rush towards the group who are prepared for such an attack.
"Pikachu Thunderbolt!"
"Gogoat Energy Ball!"
"Vespiquen Power Gem!"
All three trainers say to their Pokemon as Pikachu released his Jolt of electricity, Gogoat released a ball of green energy and Vespiquen created 4 floating rocks to launch towards Grafaiai which sends the little monkey Pokemon flying towards the blimp sending TR flying as well.
"Well at least we are improving with Metronome. That man was kind of scary and yet kind of a hunk at the same time." James said hopefully,
"For once I agree, he is scary and hunky at the same time." Jessie said in accordance.
"Can't you keep your love lives out of this one?" Meowth said complaining.
"We're blasting off again/Wobuffet/Graff/Chonk!" They all said before disappearing.
Saguaro is seen treating the last of the Pokemon before he looks to the trainers with some disappointment, "Both of you had me worried when I got the signal and you didn't come back after an hour and Arven, what you did was notable but that fall could've cost you your life. Never, do that again!" Saguaro said sternly to both trainers. which caused them to look down in shame, but Saguaro hugged them both.
"Promise me next time, you'll be careful. I don't want to lose my precious students whether to a gang or to a fall." Saguaro said kindly, "We're sorry Mr. Saguaro" both students say apologetically.
"I'm not mad, just be careful next time. Come on, let's get back to the school, there's still some time left before school's end." Saguaro said to the two of them who nod and prepare to leave but not before Morada rushes to Arven holding the Herba Mystica as if it was a bouquet of sorts and blushing.
"Oh, hey Morada. I want you to keep the Herba Mystica, you're pretty much the top don around here so I think our work here is done. But I'll come by and visit you from time to tim-" Arven didn't finish as Morada began to push the Herba Mystica into Arven's arms and blushes some more which causes Arven to be confused some more.
"What's wrong?" Arven asks to which Morada uses her hands to point towards Arven then to herself and then formed a round shape which confuses Arven even more, "Young lad, I think what that Sneasel there which is a particularly strange Sneasel is trying to say is that she wants to go with you." Saguaro said which causes Arven to realize that a bit too late.
"Ohhhh, are you sure Sneasel? I'm not the most competent battler." Arven said nervously but Ash shakes his head, "That's not true, you went for Sneasel without any hesitation, and you helped her out even though you had no reason to. You don't have to be a competent battler to catch a Pokemon, sometimes, you just have to the right things despite the circumstances." Ash tells Arven who smiles and nods to himself, his Gogoat also pushes him towards Sneasel approving Arven who grabs a Friend Ball.
"Oh alright, Morada welcome aboard!" Arven says happily as he fists bumps the Sneasel who gets into the ball which shakes once and sparkles.
"Alright, I just caught myself a strange Sneasel!"
"Goooat!"
"Come on out!" Arven said as he threw the Pokeball in the air releasing Sneasel who looks ready to travel, Morada looks to her group of Sneasel and Weavile and nod knowing that Morada will be fine from now on alongside Arven.
After the wild events of that day, the gang head back to the school to make that sandwich and thankfully it was delicious with Ash and Pikachu sharing it while Arven is keeping his half for later and says that there is enough Herba Mystica for tomorrow if he would like another one which Ash and Pikachu agree to. The class ended for today, but Saguaro made the suggestion to going to Jacq because of the strange Sneasel which they agreed to.
We see Ash and Arven walk into the teacher's lounge to see Jacq watching a funny Telenovela called 'La belleza y el magikarp' (Spanish: The beauty and the Magikarp) from his table and the boys walking in which gets Jacq's attention and pauses it.
"Ah what can I do you for boys, is the vending machine broken again?" Jacq said happily, "Actually we're here to ask you a question about genetics." Ash said which gets Jacq's full attention.
"And what question you may have?" Jacq asks, "We found this strange Sneasel and we were wondering what genetic mutation does my Sneasel have." Arven asks as he sends out the Sneasel which causes Jacq to almost faint upon seeing this particular Sneasel before he began to analyze her.
"My eyes aren't deceiving me. The light blue and purple hair, the small feather on the head that indicates Sneasel being female and the back feathers being together. Arven, you have caught a Hisuian Pokemon" Jacq said excitedly which intrigues both Ash and Arven. "Hisuian form?" Ash asks the excited professor who nods.
"Yes, Hisui was the name of Sinnoh a long time ago and back then, there were a lot of unique forms of Pokemon you don't usually see nowadays due to changing genetics and and some evolution materials being lost due to the changing landscape which caused these Pokemon to become much rarer and really only showing up through genetics and your Sneasel here has a rare mutation I like to call Regionitis." Jacq said informally but both Ash and Arven looked to each other in utter disapproval over the name.
"That sounds like an illness." Tyme said from another desk which gets Jacq puts his head down in disappointment, "Well, I'll figure out a name later but either way. Your Sneasel here has her genetics a bit messed up causing what would've been an ordinary Sneasel to turn into a Hisuian variant and this can happen with other Pokemon as well or could work the other way and have a regional form hatch an egg that contains a regular form of a Pokemon." Jacq said with his spirits back up which intrested the two trainers.
"Are they like regional forms?" Arven asks the ecstatic professor, "You could say that, but I like to consider them more as variations than regional forms since Hisuian Sneasel and a (Jacq grabs a nearby book on Hisuian Pokemon to show Overqwil, an evolution of Hisuian Qwilfish) Overqwil for instance have been sighted in Paldea 60 years ago but have since disappeared." Jacq said which impresses the two trainers. "An Overqwil!?" Ash asks.
"An evolution of Hisuian Qwilfish. oh my, I'll have to add this to the lessons but Arven, do you think you could come by next week to show off Sneasel once more for Biology?" Jacq asks, "Consider it done professor." Arven said.
"One more thing, Ash could I see your Pokedex before we leave for the champion's headquarters for tomorrow? I would like to add this information about Hisuian Pokemon to the database." Jacq asks, "Sure, they weren't on there before?" Ash asks which causes Jacq to shake his head. "No not exactly, the information that was used a long time ago is here in these books but due to a lack of sightings in a long time, these forms haven's been added to the Dexbase but with Sneasel here, I can get started adding these forms right away."
And with that, the ecstatic professor got to work in putting the Hisuian forms in the database and both trainers went off to their dorms but before they went to their respective dorms, Arven decides to talk with Ash.
"Ash?" Arven asks the young champion who looks to him, "Thanks."
"Oh, I didn't do anything Arven."
"But you did Ash, you were the most positive even when I was more stoic, and your optimism and bravery was certainly something." Arven said cheerfully.
"Well, that's what friends do." Ash said which causes Arven to do a double take on the 'friends' part, "Friends?" Arven said almost bewildered. "Yeah, we wouldn't have had those conversations, teamwork and the overall adventure if we weren't friends plus, I don't want you to be alone." Ash said cheerfully that caused Arven to think to himself for a moment.
The Champion as my friend. Well, this was unexpected but I'm not complaining. Arven thought to himself before turning to Ash with a new outlook on his life, "Yeah, we're friends alright. Well Ash, you better rest for tomorrow, we'll be meeting La Primera herself and I'm sure she'll be ecstatic to see you." Arven said with a newfound smile on his face.
"I'll see you tomorrow Arven/Pika." Ash and Pikachu said as both trainers went to their separate dorms.
We see Arven's room which was very simple but full of cooking materials and even a picture of him as a kid with a Maschiff which he faintly smiles at before getting his Pokeballs including a third one. "Alright you three come on out." Arven said happily with Gogoat and Morada coming out of their Pokeballs and Arven placing the third on his bed which releases a Mabosstiff who looks to be very sickly which Arven frowns at but tries to keep his optimism in check.
"Hey buddy? I have some Herba Mystical sandwiches for all of you. It's not the full thing but I promise you, I'll get the full thing for the future." Arven said to his Mabosstiff as he pets the sickly Pokemon and gives him a small half of a sandwich and gives the other halves to Morada and Gogoat to share. Morada looks confused and Arven realizes that she's never met Mabostiff before.
"Oh right Morada, sorry. This is my Mabosstiff and he's going to need some Herba Mystica in order to feel better, (looks to his Mabosstiff) And eat slowly buddy. I promise you, once the Treasure Hunt starts, we'll go and get all 5, I'll make sure of it." Arven said as he held his good boi close, and they all began to eat.
The next day, we see Ash and Nemona training together with Cyclizar battling Nemona's Fuecoco while Pikachu, Quaxly and Penny with her Sprigatito watch from the sidelines. We then see Arven walk to sit down from the sidelines with his Gogoat by his side ready to watch the training and Ash notices him.
"Arven, you're watching us train?" Ash said to Arven, "Of course, that's what friends are for right and you must be battling Ramona, I take it." Arven said casually which gets a vein out of Nemona, "It's Nemona Helena-Banderas and don't you forget it!" Nemona said stubbornly before he looks to Penny. "And you must be Ash's girlfriend I presume?" Arven said causing Penny to blush furiously before pointing towards Arven. "I'm not his girlfriend one eye!" Penny said reffering to Arven's hair covering one eye.
"One eye!" Arven said shocked while Ash tries to break up the comedic banter with peace while Jacq and Clavell look from the sidelines.
"Should we stop the fighting?" Jacq said before he saw things going back to peace eventually with Nemona, Penny and Clavell stopping their comedic banter with peace for Ash who wants them to get along. "I think they resolved their differences although, it does look like Ash may have found his group of friends for the upcoming adventure so maybe more banter might happen? But I do hope Ash is ready to face our La Primera." Clavell says.
Jacq looks to Clavell confused, "He's battling La Primera?" Jacq asks before Clavell clarifies, "Only if he wants to but knowing Ash, he'll say yes and when La Primera told me about havin with Ash, I was certainly shocked, but I don't necessarily see him losing but I also don't see him winning against La Primera right away if her strategy is anything to go by." Clavell clarified wondering what the outcome will be later in that day.
We see the champion headquarters where Rika (seen in chapter 4) is sitting in her chair next to three shadowy figures looking at La Primera herself (albeit without the disguise) wondering about today's tour. Rika wasn't covered by a shadow.
"So champion Ash is going to be here today in the flesh, I wonder if I can battle him! Although, why are we in the shadows?" said the rather small figure resembling a little girl.
"It's for dramatic effect my dear, I saw in a movie once with my dea- err my roommate 'Brassius' at one point. I'm surprised Rika or La Primera didn't want to be in the shadows" the taller male figure said ecstatically.
"Can I sleep?" the slouched tired Male figure said.
"La Primera, do you want us to battle him?" Rika asked La Primera who shakes her head.
"Not today, I want you guys to watch today. I want you to watch what our world's top champion can do against me in a 1 on 1 and you'll see how strong he is." La Primera said enthusastically looking from the window from her spinning chair.
"Do you think you'll win miss?" the little figure said before La Primera turns around but falls off her chair a bit causing the others (except the slouched figure who was sleeping) to check but Primera gives everyone a thumbs up to tell them she's ok.
"While I wouldn't say I would do well against him, I do have a feeling, it's going to be up to fate."
END
Omake:
The day prior, we see TR from a nearby bush overhearing the details of Hisuian Pokemon with their binoculars and a tool Meowth was controlling that will allow them to hear anything from the walls.
"You hear that, a Hisuian form and the first in a long time." James said, "Even more reason to catch that Sneasel and any more we come across in the future." Meowth said excitedly.
"You hear that James, buy the book on Hisuian Pokemon for the future on Glamazon." "I'm doing so right now Jessie." James said when all of a sudden, a large shadow appeared over them which causes the trio to turn to see a Pokemon known as Baxcalibur, an Dragon/Ice type Pokemon with a rather large appearance causing the trio to be scared but are interested in catching it.
"Hey there, buddy would you like to come with us?" James said nervous but polite, but Baxcalibur shakes its head before La Primera walks from behind the Baxcalibur all with a smile on her face.
"Hello there, do you guys have a permit to be on this grass here?" La Primera asks the trio who looked to be scared, "Oh yeah, we're the- Flying type watchers' group and we're watching for a shiny Starly that flew by just a moment ago." Meowth said holding a book of Flying types.
"Oh, then why aren't you in Cortondo for the Flying type watchers' group and it happens every Sunday afternoon?" La Primera said causing the trio to flinch, "Or are you all just Team Rocket grunts trying to steal one of my students Pokemon?" La Primera continued all with a smile causing the trio to lose their color and prepare to battle but before Jessie and James could get their Pokemon, La Primera made the first command. "Baxcalibur use Dragon Breath." La Primera said casually with Baxcalibur releasing a breath of blue flames sending the Trio flying.
"I told you we shouldn't have spied from a bush!" James said.
"Well it was easier than going on a rocky cliff!" Jessie said angrily.
"Oh well let's fly to Cortondo and sign up for that Flying type watchers club." Meowth said casually.
"We're blasting off again!" the Trio say.
Oh boy that was the longest chapter of the series thus far. And with that, we have officially introduced all of Ash's companions and now we can begin with the next major chapter with Ash and Geeta's battle, who will win? we shall see.
I do feel like this chapter is a bit too slow paced and writing Arven was the hardest part so I apoligize if it feels a bit all over the place at times and I do hope you enjoyed the chapters and now, here's Arven's team:
*Mabostiff (Dark, Male, Ability: unknown): Arven's starting Pokemon, Mabosstiff looks to be sick but for what reason is unknown.
*Gogoat (Grass, Female, Ability: Sap Sipper): A pokemon he found while on his way to his first day of Naranja as a Skiddo, she followed Arven to the gates of Mesagoza and eventually became Arven's 2nd Pokemon.
Moves:
Energy Ball
Seed Bomb
Earthquake
Aerial Ace
*Hisuian Sneasel (Poison/Fighting, Female and nicknamed Morada to differentiate the other Sneasel, should I keep the nickname? Ability: Unburden, I'm bending the rules a bit as it doesn't get Unburden until it evolves but I only found that out last minute, so I hope you're fine giving me a pass): A Sneasel encountered in the forest outside Los Platos, she is rather unique because she is a Hisuian form of a Sneasel thought to be long gone or at least lost until now. She decides to go with Arven after she puts her trust in Arven.
Moves:
Quick Attack
Metal Claw
Brick Break
Swords Dance
I also decided that Cyclizar should get some battle experience unlike my original plan of just keeping him there as a ride Pokemon, he will still get his own episode in the future involving the newly introduced Koraidon and him questioning his worth now that the stronger ancestor is there and Ash and Cyclizar get to bond in that episode though that isn't until the future.
And with that, the next chapter will involve Ash and friend's visit to the Champion Headquarters with a tour, battle and Ash's new goal for the region and I'll see you guys next time.