Hello, one and all to a new chapter of Pokemon SVTA. Something I want to make clear real quick is that I'm sorry for the depressing statement at the end of my last chapter, I wasn't in the best mood this week for family reasons and this chapter in particular will cover themes of death, depression and you know what. I want to treat this sort of thing to the best of my abilities, and you may notice this chapter is noticeable a bit darker with the subject matter at hands and I promise the chapters aren't like that, but I need to let this sort of sadness out of my system before I move on with the main arc.
Yes, this chapter will end the Introduction Arc to the story, and we move on the 'Treasure Hunt Arc' kind of... The next arc won't be the Treasure Hunt yet, but it will be the prelude to the Treasure Hunt, but this arc will act as the starting point for the main story at hands. The next arc known as 'Prelude to the Open Treasure' Arc will be focus on Ash accompanying Nemona to grab some things from her house with Penny and Arven coming with for supposedly their own 'reasons' (In actuality, it's because Ash) and on their first day together, Ash will have to get everyone organized and getting along with each other as they help a duo of children to save their Arcanine and return them home.
The next Cover Story this time is a 3-in-1 Cover Story that will connect to each other at some point in the future. This will cover the 2nd DLC of Sword and Shield: The Crown Tundra since many of the Pokemon and story were shafted in Journeys and it's time for a redemption arc by having a Cover Story arc relating to the DLC, the 1st DLC: Isle of Armor will be covered at some point, but I need a character that could fit within that story before I do so. With that out of the way, let's begin.
I also take requests for Cover Stories or just one-off non-canonical chapters that could be interesting such as what-ifs, interesting adventures or character interaction, etc. I primarily will be focusing on non-companions as I do have plans for them (except for Brock and Misty, I'm not sure what to write for them) but I can still take those requests. I also plan on writing non-canonical cover stories that are meant for fun or one-shot cover stories if I don't have any plans for a particular character in the future or not at the moment as well as cover image ideas where it displays something more fun and either non-canonical or something in the story that's not cover story material such as having the chef companions of Ash's region journey's interact with each other for instance.
This chapter is more personal to me, relating to my feelings and thoughts and so this chapter will feel a bit... real per say.
TW: Mentions of death, mentions of suicide, depression
Cover Story 3: The Looker files #1: The Rosey Lookalike (Part 1, set after Gladion and Alain's arrival)
Looker is a Police officer/detective for the International Police, he handles cases that could be seen as too difficult for the regular police or those that covers evil teams throughout different regions. During his investigations of Team Galactic and Team Plasma, he seems to encounter Ash Ketchum and his friends who assist him in scenarios that would most likely end the world if not for Ash.
After Unova however, Looker hasn't seen the young lad but was congratulatory towards him during his victories in Alola and Galar respectively and wished he could have congratulated him personally, but work was a plenty especially with him training two new recruits a young hot-blooded detective with her Boltund named Jenny and yes, that Jenny as the first officer Jenny in the International Police. And a shy young man with his confident partner Steenee named Lock.
One day, Looker was going to investigate the Shadow Triad for their ties in crime and in association with Team Plasma but was given the assignment of searching for Rose, the former chairman of Macro Cosmos and his assistant Oleana for their involvement in the Darkest Day incident who escaped custody supposedly sighted in the Crown Tundra and with that knowledge, Looker and his recruits set off to Galar where strange things are bound to happen.
Upon arriving, they noticed who looks to be Rose but a bit taller, an orange coat, having a bit of a personality and seemed to be overprotective of a girl who wants to go in a cave. They look on him and find out he's Peony, the former Champion of Galar before Leon and the brother of Chairman Rose. They decide to ask Peony some questions but all of a sudden, the girl goes to Looker and asks him to battle her father and her father appears to be comedically heartbroken and promises a battle with the confused Looker. Will things get better for him or will he need a new cup of joe.
END
Cover Story 4: Alain's investigation days: The village of Ice (Set before Looker and Gladion's arrival)
Alain was Ash's rival during his journey in Kalos and a was previously an assistant to Professor Sycamore and despite seeming cold, he's a calm individual who gets along with Ash and his friend Mairin and her Chespin, Chespie. Following the incident in Kalos where Lysandre almost destroyed the world, Alain decided to return as Sycamore's assistant with Mairin joining them. Alain hoped that one day, he could battle Ash again to see his full strength as a Champion but sadly, he lost the first round of the Masters 8 but still hoped in the future for another battle.
One day, Sycamore hears rumors of the Kantonian bird trio of... well, Kanto supposedly sighted in Galar, but they have a different unheard-of appearance that looked to be crueler and more vicious. Curious to what they are, Alain and Mairin agree to go investigate these rumors and possibly get a picture of them and with the appropriate clothing at hand, they go to the Crown Tundra to investigate. Upon arrival, the duo notices the village was in a snowy landscape with the village's garden being constantly cleared of snow everyday.
Alain asks the village elder where they are and the elder explains that this is the town of Freezington, a village of snow and explains that due to the location, the weather varies from month to month, but they typically don't get much sun for a while causing the crops to go cold. Mairin asks about deliveries and the village says that deliveries are even rarer due to the cold. Deciding they have time before they go search for the birds, Alain and Mairin agreed to help by setting up a sturdy tent to prevent snow and Mairin has her Flabebe use Grassy Terrain to have the crops grow faster and Alain's Charizard to use its flame tail to provide heat and to everyone's surprise, they start to grow.
With the village elder grateful for their actions, the elder asks what he could do for return and Alain mentions the rumors of these Kantonian Birds that have new forms. The elder hears about the rumors stating they've been sighted near Dyna Tree Hill, a hill containing the Dyna Tree that contains mystical powers, but no one knows what they're purpose is other than being a popular sight. Alain and Mairin decide to stay for the night before investigating in the morning but the elder also tells them of temples containing the Regis as well as two supposed Regis that a group of people were searching for and that they should check it out sometime.
Now all that the 2 trainers are wondering about is where are they going to sleep which is when a girl in a white labcoat and curly orange hair named Sonia goes to them saying that she has room in a house nearby and mentions she's searching for the two particular groups of Legendaries: The Swords of Justice and the Kantonian Birds Galarian forms.
END
Cover Story 5: Gladion's Ultra Journey: Cosmog's return? Part 1 (Set after Alain's arrival and before Looker's arrival)
Gladion was many things, a rival/friend to Ash, Lillie's sister and a person who wants to help his family. Following Gladion's return to Alola after he, Lillie and their mom Lusamine found their missing father/Lusamine's husband Mohn (with help from Ash and Goh), Gladion's purpose right now was to have their father adapt to Alola and have the (Shiny) Nihilego caught by Gladion adapt to the region and the lifestyle as well. He was excited upon Ash's victory at the Masters 8 and wishes to battle him one day but it wasn't a major priority at the moment.
One day, while Gladion and Lillie were at the Aether Foundation, Lusamine reported on a strange signal she found while they were at the Crown Tundra searching for Mohn, a signal that resembled that of an Ultra Beast with a strange abnormality within Freezington that is decribed as portal-like. Lusamine was going to investigate but due she had some work that she had to do (boring meetings and all that), Wicke was busy taking care of the Pokemon, Burnet was sick and Lusamine doesn't trust Faba alone, so she chooses Rotom Dex for the task and asks Gladion to accompany Rotom in case of an emergency.
Though Gladion is hesitant to due to their father, but Lillie assures her brother that she and Hobbes (Lillie and Gladion's butler) will take care of him and even Mohn insists so he can get outside and explore and Gladion reluctantly agrees. Though Lusamine distrusts Faba as much everyone in Aether, she does need someone to report on data alongside Rotom Dex (in actuality, she needed Faba away for taking the last donut, but tells Gladion and Rotom to go along with it). Faba has to take orders from Rotom and Gladion, which Faba wonders why but Gladion reminds him of the incident and Rotom's rank as head researcher on Pokemon Data, so Faba reluctantly agrees.
The next day, the three researchers arrive to Freezington when they notice a tent that contained Grassy Terrain and a flame hanging above the garden with fastly grown nice vegetables. Rotom seems impressed that they were able to come up with such a strategy while Faba says it's child's play but both Gladion and Rotom glare at Faba to shut up which he does. The group see an old woman fall and drop her vegetation and Gladion and Rotom go to help out, the old woman thanks the two and asks if they could help her to the door which they do. As they open the door, they notice something off...
They notice a Cosmog wearing a bowtie and playing with their konpeito toy happily which shocks the both of them... and Faba. They remembered a particular Cosmog that was raised by Ash and through a series of events (I.E Faba's involvement) evolved into Cosmoem and when they had to save Lusamine, they took it to Poni Island where the Island Guardians helped evolved Cosmoem into Solagleo. So now the three were wondering, why is there a Cosmog but that's not the strangest part, they also see a Buzzswole and Pheromosa cooking, a Kartana cutting up vegetables, a Blacephelon vacuuming (while wearing an apron) and why is there a Shiny Poipole wearing a shirt too big for it and two Nihelego's wearing a dress and another wearing a shirt!?
Either way, this causes the three to be weirded out but what's even stranger is that the old woman refers to them as her 'family', what is going on and how will it resolve?
END
Now for the main event.
It was another beautiful day at Naranja Academy where everyone would rather be sleeping but unfortunately, it's a school day and everyone must get up and one of those individuals happens to be Ash. Ash gets up and stretches with the rest of his Pokemon also waking up. Ash goes to the bathroom to shower and a couple of minutes later, Ash is seen with his school uniform, all ready to go.
"Morning everyone!" Ash said happily, "Tink! Bui! Pika! Zar! Quax!" they all say excitedly but Quaxly sounded tired which Ash was curious and worried about. "Quaxly are you ok?" Ash asks as Quaxly gave a thumbs up but was still tired before Ash remembers the events of yesterday where Quaxly had to do his Counter Shield (which Ash calls 'Aqua Drill') that took a toll on Quaxly's strength.
Ash softly smiles before putting Quaxly on the bed and covering him up, "You've done some hard work yesterday, but for today, I want you to rest yourself. The Treasure Hunt is coming soon and you'll need plenty of rest for that adventure so rest up today!" Ash said enthusiastically as Quaxly nodded with Buizel pointing to himself which Ash interprets it as something.
"Buizel? You want to stay and watch Quaxly?" Ash asked the Pokemon who nodded as Ash pats Buizel on the head, "Thanks Buizel, you two behave now and the TV's there for watching. Ready to go Pikachu, Cyclizar, Tinkatink?" Ash said to his Pokemon who nod and say their names cheerfully as he prepares to head out the door.
"You two behave now." Ash says to the two as they nod and Pikachu hops on Ash's shoulder ready to go. Ash's Tinkatink and Cyclizar go in their Pokeballs and Ash heads out the door. As Ash walks out the door, he looks to his right to see Nemona standing emotionless at dorm 108 with noticeable tear marks over her face and Pawmo on her shoulder looking on with worry. That made Ash concerned as Ash goes to the motionless student.
"Nemona, are you alright?" Ash asks his friend who snaps back to reality to turn to Ash and gives a soft yet sad smile as if she's hiding something, "Oh, um, hey Ash. Sorry about that, I was lost in thought there, how are you?" Nemona said appearing rather tired with her Pawmo rather concerned. "I'm good, is everything ok?" Ash asks out of concern as Nemona tiredly nods.
"Oh yes, it's just that student council stuff is making me tired and all that and so I like to stand here and think for a while." Nemona said seemingly lying but Ash decides not to press further, "Oh, well I hope you're ok. I'll see you in homeroom." Ash says as Nemona nodded and waved to Ash as he went along. Nemona leans her head against door 108 and sighs.
Why didn't I tell him? Nemona thought to herself sadly as a tear rolled down her face.
It was now homeroom in Jacq's classroom with everyone talking to each other, but Ash looked concerned for Nemona who usually shows up in Homeroom first, but she wasn't there similar to Geography the other day, Ash tries to think about it later thinking it might be Student Council related as Jacq walks in with a soft smile.
"Good morning, everyone, is everyone doing good this morning?" Jacq asks as the students nod and Jacq smiles warmly, "That's good, now we have some important announcements relating to the Treasure Hunt next week so please give your attention to Nemona." Jacq said as he turns his head to Nemona's seat only to see that she wasn't there. "That's strange, I wonder where she could be?" Jacq said surprised as Arven raised his hand and Jacq picks him.
"Yes Arven.
"I believe it's September 20th sir, the anniversary of Grace." Arven said rather seriously as Jacq sighs and now appears to have a frown, "Oh shoot, I apologize for not noticing the date. For one minute, I would like everyone to have a moment of silence or our dear student Grace." Jacq said solemnly as everyone stayed silent, although Ash was confused, Ash stayed silent for that moment until Jacq raised his head.
"Thank you." Jacq said as Ash raised his hand, "Yes Ash?" Jacq said.
"If you don't mind me asking, who was Grace?" Ash asked, "Not at all, Grace was a member of our student council. She was bright and fun and helped keep the Student Council from being a typical boring wasteland, she passed on this day last year and it hit us pretty hard and happened unexpected really." Jacq said rather sadly.
"Oh."
"I should note that you won't be having any classes for the rest of the day in order to remember Grace. So, consider this your day to study, don't use that as an excuse, please. I'll handle the rest of the announcements today; we will not have school tomorrow for teacher planning day and so spend tomorrow studying or being prepared for the Treasure Hunt on Tuesday. We will also have a special type of conference coming up where all your relatives will come and watch what you do."
"Watch what we do?" Ash asks as Jacq nods, "Yes, more info on that will be explained in the future. For today for you all, I want you all to appreciate life today and make sure you appreciate your friends, family, Pokemon and loved ones because sometimes, they might be gone one day, and you might want to hold them close." Jacq said solemnly as the bell rings.
"I hope you all have a good day." Jacq said as everyone gets up and heads out the door. As Ash grabs his bag and Pikachu climbs his shoulder, Jacq comes to Ash holding out some papers.
"Scuse me Ash, could you do me a favor?" Jacq asks as Ash nods, "I was supposed to give these to Nemona but she isn't here so could you find her for me?" Jacq said as Ash nods and grabs onto the papers.
"Thank you, Ash, and also, make sure Nemona doesn't feel alone for today." Jacq said with a soft smile and although Ash is confused by what he means by that, Ash nods and leaves the room.
Ash is concerned for Nemona and why she wasn't in class today which Pikachu noticed Ash's frown, "Pika?" Pikachu said concerned for his trainer as Ash snaps out of it.
"Sorry buddy, I kind of got lost in thought for a second there. I'm back, I'm just concerned for Nemona right now, she just didn't seem to be feeling the best from what I saw. Although I don't want to really force her to say anything, I would like to help her somehow." Ash said with concern in his voice as they open the door to the Student Council room to see Nemona sitting there lost in thought while her Pawmo, Fuecoco and Teddiursa look on in concern.
Ash is concerned as he shuts the door behind him and Nemona snaps out of her trance surprised, "Oh hey Ash, sorry about that. I get lost in thought at times haha." Nemona said with a noticeably fake almost forced laugh. Ash can tell that Nemona is lying a bit but tries not to point that out as Ash plays along a bit.
"Oh, hi Nemona. I just came here to give you these papers here." Ash said with a calm tone as Nemona grabs the papers and nods, "Thank you Ash, I'll take the rest from here." Nemona said with a positive (yet kind of fake) smile as Ash nods but is still noticeably concerned for his friend. Ash attempts to turn around and leave before Nemona gives out a sigh to herself.
What am I doing with myself. Nemona thought as she turns around and grabs onto Ash's shoulder, "Wait! Can we talk?" Nemona said with a noticable frown as Ash nods and they both take a seat at a nearby table which looked like a large 'U' while Pikachu goes to play with the others.
"Sorry, I shouldn't drive you away like this." Nemona said sadly as Ash shakes his head, "No, don't blame yourself. I- I wanted to know how you were feeling?" Ash asks the normally spunky trainer who sighs.
"I'm not too sure on how I feel right now." Nemona said rather sad, "I don't want to force you to say anything if you don't want to, we can talk about anything really-" Ash didn't finish as Nemona intervenes.
"It's fine Ash, I wanted to talk to someone about this." Nemona said reassuring Ash before she takes a deep breath, "The truth is, my mother died on this day 2 years ago and I felt heartbroken, but it was also on this day a year ago I lost my best friend, Grace." Nemona said as Ash has a realization moment and Ash looks kind of down.
"Oh." Ash says as Nemona continued, "She was my fellow Student Council member back before I was president and always stepped in whenever there was conflict which is what kept me and Giacomo from being truly enemies and helped keep Giacomo's rules from being too overboard. Grace was always there for us, and we were happy. But then one day, she... jumped while in the Vast Beyond and she was taken from us." Nemona said starting to tear up.
"Jumped?" Ash was confused at first until he started to connect the dots and his eyes widen in horror, "No..." Ash said realizing the truth as Nemona nods. "Yes, it wasn't a bright day for anyone after that as the school hasn't seen a tragedy like this in over a long time and afterwards, Giacomo left and I stepped in to fill the shoes but still, I lost two important people on this day, and I'll never forget about that."
"Nemona, I'm so sorry." Ash says but Nemona shakes her head, "No not at all, Grace wouldn't want use to be worrying about her but at times, I feel like I can't take it anymore and I miss her a lot. She was one of the few people in my life who cared about me not because of my status, but because of who I was as an individual and I'm happy." Nemona said with a soft smile, though Ash still sees some sadness in her eyes and even some things that she's holding back but decides not to press on in respect.
"I think a walk could help clear things up, it's something that I usually do at times to clear my mind." Ash says as Nemona nods happily, "That sounds good, I'll- I'll catch up with you in a minute." Nemona said stuttering a bit, Ash was concerned but nodded and told Pikachu to come along as Pikachu hopped onto Ash's shoulder and Ash walked off. Nemona smiled but then her tears fell down once more which causes her Pokemon to go to Nemona with concern.
"Why didn't I tell him the truth? What is wrong with me?" Nemona said sadly.
Nemona is seen walking with Ash down the halls chatting away about stuff, Ash and Nemona are heading to Harold's sandwich shop when Nemona starts to overhear some people talking badly about something.
"You hear they're giving us the day off for something about a girl's death, let's go to the mall!"
"Why are they celebrating someone who associated themselves with Team Star, at least we get the day off."
"Whoever reported in her in is a hero in my books."
The conversations that Nemona was hearing made her heart break and started to shake her hands, Nemona was rightfully pissed that they would diss on Grace and use that as an excuse to go have 'fun' when they should be in mourning. The Team Star part seemed to really tick off Nemona as Pawmo noticed and started to get nervous as Nemona's tears started to drop. Before she could explode, Ash holds Nemona's left hand which snaps her back to reality as she looks to her shorter friend.
"Ash." Nemona said relieved, "My mom has always told me, whenever a close friend is in some sort of panic or on the verge of a meltdown, you should always hold their hand to reassure them that everything's ok." Ash said with concern in his voice as Nemona smiled.
"Thank you, Ash." Nemona said with a soft smile.
They both walked down the lobby, two students (from chapter 4) go to Nemona and Ash with panic in their eyes. "Nemona, we have an- are you going on a date?" the female student said distracted as Nemona rather than comedically deny it, shook her head normally.
"No no, Ash was helping me calm down. What seems to be the issue?" Nemona said as Ash let's go of hand, "It's Team Star, they're spray painting again!" the female student said as both Ash and Nemona looked to each other and nod.
"We'll take care of it, go report this to a nearby teacher!" Nemona said as the students nod and went off.
Both Ash and Nemona are seen going down the Naranja academy stairs and see a duo of Team Star grunts consisting of a boy and girl seemingly spray-painting flowers and trying to spray paint a face of some kind.
"Alright, stop what you're doing right this instant!" Ash says getting the attention of the duo who immediately drop their cans and were a bit scared. "It's the champion! Look we weren't doing nothing wrong this time for real!" the female grunt says with shock in her voice.
"What you're doing is vandalizing the walls, I want you to clean this up and come with me to the headmaster's office." Nemona said sternly, "We weren't asking you girl- Wait a sec, you're Nemona aren't you?" the boy said now with a noticable anger in his voice.
"Yeah, and what you're doing is vandalizing this wall." Nemona said, "And you took our friend away!" the male grunt said as Nemona freezes up a bit. "Friend?" Nemona said confused.
"Yeah Grace." the female grunt said causing Nemona to shake a bit,
"Sto- Stop." Nemona said shaking a bit, "We were just remembering our old friend when you decided to show up."
"Stop trying to mess with her, what gives you the right to-" Ash was held back by Nemona placing her hand in front of Ash, "What's this, the champion doesn't know the truth. Well, if you must know, Nemona here took our Grace away and caused her death and leaving our leader in a heartbroken state because of you!" the male grunt said with malice in his voice.
Nemona at this point had tears streaming down her eyes, "Without you, Grace would've been alive to keep us in spirit, but you took her away you stealer, go away!" the female grunt said lowly.
"Champion, do yourself a favor and stop associating yourself with this 'killer'" The male grunt said as that word finally made Nemona's waterworks let loose and starts to tear up some more.
"That's enoug-" Ash didn't finish as Nemona started to cry which Ash took notice of and tried to reach out for her before she ran off with tears streaming and passing by Clavell who was coming down to check on Team Star when he notices Nemona. "Nemona?" Clavell said out of concern as he tried to reach out for her to no avail with her dropping a pendant which opened up which Clavell picked up.
"Serves her righ-"
"Shut your mouth." Ash said lowly as he and Pikachu gave them a low glare which caused the TS duo to shiver a bit before they ran off to a nearby building dropping a picture of who appears to be Nemona scribbled along with an individual with a cool hat and a confident smirk and a girl with long black braids smiling and having a group huddle which Ash picked up and realized the truth.
"They were telling the truth, they just wanted to honor their friend. I wish I picked up on that earlier." Ash said sadly as Clavell goes to him with worry in his eyes, "Ash, is everything ok?" Clavell said with concern as Ash turns to him.
"To be honest, I'm not sure myself but Nemona-" Ash didn't finish with concern in his voice, "Would you like to talk about it?" Clavell said to the young champion who nodded.
Ash spent the next 7 minutes talking to Clavell over the incident at hand as well as her behavior earlier which Clavell takes note of and nods, "Poor Nemona, she's been like that for a while now. I talked to her this morning, and she seemed distracted today." Clavell said in accordance with Ash looking on with concern.
"Not only that, but Team Star were only trying to honor their friend and we ruined that for them." Ash said looking rather sad, "I admit, their words were unacceptable in every matter and yet I don't blame them for honoring their friend, but I am angry towards those who use this day as an excuse and badmouth their deceased classmate." Clavell said in agreement.
They sat there for a moment before Ash spoke up once more, "Say Mr. Clavell? Was Grace really apart of Team Star?" Ash said curious to know as Clavell nods.
"Yes, Grace was a part of Team Star and although she was cheerful, she was feeling rather sad lately with the death of her father and her beloved Sliggoo but always tried to keep a positive attitude for everyone. I'm sure you know that when the Starry Skies incident happened, our order was to search for any of the Team Star bosses and expel them for their actions and this was back when I was a Vice-headmaster. Our previous headmaster Harrington asked Nemona to find Giacomo, the head of Segin base but as Nemona was about to ask Giacomo, Grace took Giacomo's place declaring herself as the leader in Giacomo's place and reluctantly, Nemona took her up." Clavell stops himself to take a breath as Ash and Pikachu began to realize the implications.
"You don't mean she-" Ash didn't need to finish as Clavell nodded, "I never went into the headmaster's office when that happened but when I saw Nemona, she walked out of the door and looked to be crying over her decision and when Grace came out of the door, she looked to have despair in her eyes and just left. When I entered the office, Harrington had his hand over his face looking like he made a regrettable decision during that conversation but as to what I'm not sure of, but I assumed he expelled her. When I went to check on Grace's dorm to see if she was about to clear out her stuff, her room was intact." Clavell stopped himself once more before breathing in for the harsh finale.
"And then as you heard from Nemona, around 6 hours later, her body was found near the Vast Beyond. It hit everyone- everyone pretty hard that day including a lot of Team Star and when I found Giacomo, he gave the coldest glare to Nemona yet along with the word 'killer' and then leaving with his grunts. It was one of the reasons why our teachers left except for a couple like me, and Harrington left with regret nd sadness in his eyes. Saguaro and Nemona in particular were hit hard by this as Grace and Giacomo were his homeroom students and with those two gone, Saguaro lost two students important in his life while Nemona lost her friends and gained the hatred of Team Star but what's even worse, some people claim that she 'deserved' to die due to her association and Nemona being called a 'killer'-" Clavell didn't finish as Ash slammed his hand on the table surprising Pikachu.
"How could they say such things to both of them!" Ash said angrily as Clavell didn't look surprised, "Unfortunately, that's how most people are in this world young Ash." Clavell said as they both sat there for a moment before Ash calmed down and looked to Clavell.
"Mr. Clavell?"
"Yeah Ash?"
"Do you hate any student who associates themselves with Team Star or hate any of their bosses?" Ash asked surprising Clavell before he sighed, "No Ash, even though they're apart of Team Star, I could never bring myself to hate them. But what they're doing at times could ruin their lives and yet after the other day when you told me what some TS members go through, I don't want to expel them for those reasons, but I want to help them through their issues without getting hurt. That's all I want; I don't want to lose another student." Clavell said solemnly.
Ash sat there for another moment before raising his head, "Mr. Clavell, could you do me a favor?"
"Of course." Clavell said as Ash went to his ear and whispered some things which Clavell nodded to,
"You sure?" Clavell asked as Ash whispered.
"I do believe I know a couple of students with a Smeargle and Grafaiai and I can have Hassel help out." Clavell said once more as Ash whispered to him again as Clavell nodded.
"You want me to find those two from before and allow them to continue on your behalf?" Clavell said as Ash nodded and Clavell understood the assignment.
"You have my word, I'll find them but if you're going to find Nemona, you're going to need her pendant." Clavell said as he gave Ash the pendant which contained two photos one was of Nemona, her mother Gina and her Pawmi at the time and another contained her, Grace and Giacomo. Ash closes the pendant and nods sending out Cyclizar.
"Zar!" Cyclizar said cheerfully as Ash pats his head, "Cyclizar, could do me a favor and try to find Nemona's location with her pendant please."
"Zar!" Cyclizar said as he sniffs out the location and points towards the Vast Beyond gate, "Lead the way Cyclizar!" Ash said as Cyclizar began to run along the trail with Ash and Pikachu following behind as Clavell smiles.
That boy will inspire the world one day. Clavell thought to himself as he heads the opposite direction to look for the Team Star grunts.
We see Nemona at Valley Cliff with her head on her knees facing the sun with her Pawmo curled up beside her, we see Ash riding up to Valley Cliff on his Cyclizar making it up to the top which Pawmo took notice of, but Nemona wasn't moving.
"Nemona?" Ash said with concern in his voice, "How did you find me?" Nemona said muffled.
"You dropped your pendant and Cyclizar picked up on your scent." Ash said calmly which causes Nemona to change her position and looks to Ash with tear-stained eyes as Ash reaches out his hand for Nemona to grab her pendant. "Thanks." Nemona said before getting back to looking at the ocean. Ash, Pikachu and Cyclizar sat next to them.
"I'm sorry for what happened." Ash said sadly as Nemona nods, "Clavell told you the truth, didn't he?" Nemona said as Ash nods.
"Yeah, you shouldn't let them get to you like this." Ash says to Nemona.
"I know, I know I shouldn't let some words get to me but it's hard to ignore when I feel responsible for certain people hating me and claim that I'm some of killer or murderer who took their friend away. It's also hard when- when- when some of those words come from a former acquaintance. Grace and my mom were light in life, Grace encouraged me to be who I am as an individual when I first joined the Student Council and I looked to up to her. I try to be optimistic and helpful to everyone but whenever I think of this day, I can't help but feel alone and helpless losing my mother and responsible for losing my best friend on the same day and some people just saying mean things about her. Maybe they're right, maybe I am just some killer and should just go away, I'm just a-"
"Don't say that about yourself!" Ash yelled out causing Nemona to stop her crying and look at Ash with surprise before he calmed down.
"Don't, you're not some- stealer, you always help everyone and are kind and optimistic towards everyone. You gained the respect of many of your classmates not because you're some rich girl in a famous academy, but you did it by being yourself. You shouldn't let some grunts get to you like this! If there were 1000 grunts trying to bring you down, I'll battle those 1000 grunts to pull you of your darkness! I can't bear the idea of losing my friends like this, you're my friend Nemona and I-" Ash didn't finish as Nemona hugged him tightly with a soft smile and tears streaming down her eyes.
"You don't need to finish Ash, thank you." Nemona said softly as Ash hugs back, none of them know how long they've been hugging each other but it didn't matter as they waited a long time.
Ash and Nemona walk down from Valley Cliff and stand on opposite sides of the trail with Ash looking on with concern, "Nemona, are you sure you want to do this?" Ash says to the now slightly reenergized trainer who nods.
"Yes, I need to test my resolve for this Treasure Hunt. This Treasure Hunt is to make everyone I love proud and now I want to prove my resolve by battling you." Nemona said with a reenergized spirit as Ash nods and smiles.
Nearby at a rock formation, we see Rika and the gray clothed little girl from before watching the match curious about what will happen next, "Say Rika? Is it really appropriate to watch them like this?" the little girl asks the confident Rika who nods. "I just want to see his skills some more and see if he and his new captures have what it takes to survive our Champion's Bout. Don't worry, we'll get ice cream after this." Rika said as the little girl jumps in excitement and Rika softly smiles as the match is about to begin.
"If you're sure about this. Cyclizar, ready to go!" Ash said enthusiastically as Cyclizar nods and goes in, "Alright then, Teddiursa, come on out!" Nemona said throwing her Pokeball in the air releasing the battle-ready cub.
"Ursa!" Teddiursa said ready to go, "Teddiursa huh? Has she gotten any battle experience yet?" Ash asks as the spunky trainer nods. "Yep! I've been training the past two days after Student Council duties, and she's gotten the hang to battling." Nemona said as her Teddiursa stretches.
"Alright then, you may have the first move." Ash says as Nemona gets back in the groove and calls out her first move, "Alright Teddiursa use Swords Dance!" Nemona said as Teddiursa prepares to tense her muscles when Ash calls out, "Taunt." Ash said calmly as Cyclizar put his arm up and gestured to Teddiursa with a smirk causing her to stop her Swords Dance in anger.
"Tau- you're one sly trainer aren't ya." Nemona said smirking as Ash shrugged, "I try not to be, Quick Attack!" Ash said as Cyclizar rushed towards Teddiursa at blazing speed as Nemona had to think of something fast. "Teddiursa use Slash!" Nemona said as Teddiursa's claws glowed and jumped towards Cyclizar and both clashed with each other at full force as both jump back.
"Alright Cyclizar use Rapid Spin!" Ash commanded as Cyclizar proceeded to spin rather fast at blazing speed as Nemona thinks of an idea to counter it, "Use Covet on the ground!" Nemona said as her Teddiursa's arms start to glow and hit the ground at full force creating a dent which Ash didn't expect.
"Cyclizar look out!" but it came a bit too late as Cyclizar got caught in the dent and appeared like he was going to trip which Nemona sees an opportunity, "Teddiursa use Play Rough!" Nemona said cheerfully as Teddiursa's body glows pink and rushes at Cyclizar at full force launching a powerful punch that sent Cyclizar flying.
"Cyclizar, use your tail to balance yourself!" Ash says as Cyclizar used his tail to hold itself in balance and gets back into fighting position, "Alright, use Breaking Swipe in the air!" Ash said as Cyclizar uses his tail to propel himself in the air and his tail glows blue.
"Alright then, Teddiursa jump in the air and use Slash!" Nemona said confidently as Teddiursa nods and makes her claws glow before proceeding to jump and clash with Cyclizar's tail.
"Got you at a standstill or rather, airstill Ash." Nemona said smirking but Ash proceeded to smirk as well.
"So have I, Cyclizar Rapid Spin!" Ash said as Cyclizar spun once more with Teddiursa within his grasp causing Teddiursa to be caught in the tornado, "Oh no Teddiursa!" Nemona said worringly as Ash smirked once more. "Now send her flying back down with Breaking Swipe!" Ash said as Cyclizar's tail glowed once more and hit the Teddiursa sending it flying towards the ground. Upon the dust clearing, we see that Teddiursa has swirls in her eyes indicating she's been KO'ed as Cyclizar falls back to the ground.
"Teddiursa!" Nemona said worryingly but softly smiles as she returns Teddiursa to her Pokeball, "Thank you pal, get some rest. Things are starting to heat up so why not heat things up some more with Fuecoco!" Nemona said as she threw her Pokeball in the air releasing Fuecoco who appears to be adorably dimwitted as usual.
"Alright Fuecoco, let's get to work with Tackle!" Nemona said as the dim-witted croc proceeded to sleep causing Nemona, Ash, Cyclizar and Pikachu to look on with surprise, "Tackle, not sleep!" Nemona said comedically as Fuecoco wakes up and rushes at Cyclizar. "Cyclizar use Quick Attack!" Ash said as Cyclizar rushed at full speed with both colliding with each other, "Fuecoco use Bite!" Nemona said as Fuecoco hopped quickly from the ground and proceeded to bite Cyclizar.
"Block it!" Ash said as Cyclizar used his right arm to block the bite leaving Fuecoco hanging in the air, "What's your plan now when we prepare to Rapid Spin." Ash said as Cyclizar prepared to spin but before he could do so, Nemona had another idea in mind.
"Use Snarl to push yourself away!" Nemona strategized as Fuecoco releases a dark energy from his mouth to launch himself back from Cyclizar who staggered a bit due to the dark energy. Nemona then got a brilliant idea but wanted to wait until something happened.
"Now that was a good counter Nemona." Ash said enthusiastically as Nemona smirks, "Thanks, I learned from the best!"
"Now time for a Quick Attack!" Ash said confidently as Cyclizar rushed towards Fuecoco as Nemona's ide came to light, "Fuecoco use your Incinerate on the ground to send yourself in the air!" Nemona said as Fuecoco released a huge fireball from his mouth to the ground to send him flying in the air which Ash is astonished at as Cyclizar looks on confused.
"Now use your Snarl to push yourself back to earth and on Cyclizar!" Nemona said as Fuecoco released a dark energy from his mouth to launch itself back towards the ground and landed on Cyclizar surprising both Ash and Cyclizar.
"What the-" Ash didn't even have time to finish as Nemona called out another command, "Now use Incinerate point blank!" Nemona said as Fuecoco released a large fireball in front of Cyclizar sending him back towards Ash and being knocked out.
"Cyclizar! Thank you partner, get some rest." Ash said softly as he returned Cyclizar to his Pokeball and grabbed another Pokeball, "Now it's time for your first real battle Tinkatink." Ash said enthusiastically as he threw out his Pokeball in the air releasing the battle ready Tinkatink.
"Tink!" she said enthusiastically as Nemona smirks, "You know she's weak to fire."
"Don't underestimate Tinkatink now." Ash said also smirking, "Might as well, Fuecoco Incinerate!" Nemona said as Fuecoco launched a large fireball and Ash smirked, "Throw your rattle in the air!" Ash says as Tinkatink used her mighty strength to throw the rattle in the air very high and charges up her arm causing Nemona to be confused.
"What the-" Nemona didn't even finish as Tinkatink appeared behind Fuecoco taking both trainer and Pokemon by surprise, "Use Rock Smash!" Ash said as Fuecoco turned around too late and Tinkatink used her mighty rattle to send a powerful hit towards Fuecoco's way sending it forward and landing face first.
"Oh no!" Nemona said as Ash smirked, "Alright Tinkatink use Covet!" Ash says as Tinkatink's rattle glows and proceeds to rush towards Fuecoco's position as Nemona had to think of something fast. "Use Snarl to launch yourself in the air!" Nemona said as Fuecoco released a dark energy from his mouth launching himself upwards and making Tinkatink miss.
"Missed!" Nemona said as Ash smirked, "Don't count on it, throw your hammer!" Ash said as Tinkatink threw her rattle into the air nearly missing Fuecoco until Tinkatink appeared next to Fuecoco by surprise.
"What- use Incinerate!" Nemona said drastically but it was too late, "Rock Smash!" Ash said as Tinkatink grabbed her rattle and sent Fuecoco flying towards the ground knocking him out.
"Fuecoco!" Nemona said worryingly before calming down and smiling, "Thank you Fuecoco, get some rest." Nemona said as she returned Fuecoco to her Pokeball and nodded. "Alright then Pawmo it's time!" "Paw!" Pawmo said to his trainer as he hops from Nemona's shoulder to the battlefield.
"Alright Pawmo use Arm Thrust!" Nemona said as Pawmo's arms glowed and rushed at Tinkatink, "Metal Claw!" Ash said as Tinkatink's rattle glowed and also rushed at Pawmo with both colliding with each other. Pawmo attempts to hit Tinkatink multiple times with Arm Thrust with Tinkatink blocking each attack and Ash smirking. Nemona had to think with Tinkatink moving her body back preparing for a hit, Nemona's idea came to light.
"Dig!" Nemona said as Pawmo dug really fast and Ash didn't really expect it as Tinkatink tripped over the hall and fell on the ground, "Tinkatink get up!" Ash says as Tinkatink tries to get up but Nemona smirks.
"Not this time, now!" Nemona said as Pawmo appeared from the ground and gave a powerful uppercut sending Tinkatink flying in the air, Tinkatink lands back on to the ground and proceeds to get up with a fiery fighting spirit within her rising up. "That's the spirit, now throw your rattle in the air again!" Ash said as Tinkatink nodded and threw the rattle in the air real high and noticed an opening up."
"Alright Tinkatink head to the opening!" Ash says as Tinkatink rushes towards the hole, but another hole opens up behind Tinkatink, "Tricked ya!" Nemona said but Ash smirks, "I know." Ash said casually causing Nemona to be confused until she remembered the rattle.
"Rock Smash!" Ash said as the rattle came back down and Tinkatink caught it with her hand glowing and smacked Pawmo across the battlefield landing somewhere nearby, "Pawmo!" Nemona said worryingly as Pawmo tries to get back up as Ash smirks. "Tinkatink use Covet!" Ash says as Tinkatink prepared to jump and had her rattle glows.
Nemona stood there worried until an idea came in mind from her battle with Carmine, "Time for the Counter Shield, partner!" Nemona said as Pawmo nodded and proceeded to spin creating electricity with Thunder Shock with Tinkatink being caught in the 3 swirling electrical streams as Ash looked on with surprise.
"Tinkatink!" Ash said worryingly as Nemona smirked and called out her other command, "Use Arm Thrust to push yourself up and attack." Nemona said as Pawmo uses his powerful arms to push himself in the air next to Tinkatink as Ash looked on with intrigue and worry as Pawmo hit the shocked Tinkatink back to the ground KO'ing her.
"Tink" Tinkatink said, "Tinkatink. Thank you, get some rest." Ash says as he returned Tinkatink to her Pokeball and nods before putting it away. Ash looks to his day 1 partner Pikachu and both nod as Pikachu gets on the battlefield with the evening sun coming in.
"Let's finish this buddy!" "Pika!" Pikachu said in accordance with his trainer. "I've trained as much as I can to match your skills, I'll make sure I'll finish the fight with style!" Nemona said as both trainers smiled.
"Alright then, show me what you got. Pikachu use Quick Attack!" Ash said as Pikachu rushed towards Pawmo at blazing speed, "Pawmo use Arm Thrust!" Nemona says as Pawmo rushed at Pikachu with glowing arms and clashed with each other. Both are at a standstill until, "Pikachu Iron Tail, let's go!" Ash said as Pikachu's tail metalized and prepared to swing at Pawmo.
"Pawmo use Bite on the Iron Tail!" Nemona said as Pawmo created a pair of jaws and prepared to bit Pikachu's tail which caused another standstill, "Well that was unexpected." Ash said with surprise as Nemona smirked once more. "So is this, Dig!" Nemona said as Pawmo (still with Pikachu's tail in his mouth) dug a hole dragging Pikachu's body underground until his upper half was visible causing Ash to be surprised once more.
"Pikachu, dig yourself out!" Ash says as Pikachu tries to dig out but to no avail, "Now!" Nemona says as Pawmo uppercuts Pikachu from the ground sending him flying, "PIKA!" Pikachu said as he's sent in the air.
"Pikachu, balance yourself!" Ash says as Pikachu moved his body to try to balance himself with success and lands on the ground safely, "Now dig back underground!" Nemona said with confidence as Pawmo digs back down quickly and out of sight for Pikachu as Ash begins to think of something and an idea pops up.
"Alright Pikachu prepare an Electro Web!" Ash says as Pikachu nods and prepares an Electro Web, "I don't know what your planning but we won't allow it, now!" Nemona said as Pawmo digs in front of Pikachu as Ash sees an opportunity. "Now-" Pikachu followed through on his trainer's commands and prepares to 'strike' when all of a sudden, Pawmo digs behind Pikachu.
"Fooled you."
"Throw it in the air!" Ash finished catching Nemona off guard as Pikachu threw the Electro Web in the air as Pawmo digs up, "Wait go back!" but Nemona's words didn't reach as both Pikachu and Ash see another opportunity.
"Send Pawmo upward with Iron Tail!" Ash said as Pikachu's tail metalized and hit the other mouse Pokemon up in the air causing Pawmo to get caught in the Electro Web and badly damaged, "No way." Nemona said as Ash smirked, "Now use the rock formations for a Quick Attack!" Ash said as Pikachu nodded and dashed to the rock formations to hop off of each until he hit Pawmo sending him to the ground.
"Pawmo! You alright?" Nemona said as Pawmo got up with determination for his trainer, "Good, time for the Terastalization!" Nemona and Ash said to their partners as Pawmo and Pikachu nodded. Both Ash and Nemona grab their Tera stones and throw them at their Pokemon as the began to crystalize into their respective Electric Tera hats.
"Alright then Pawmo use Thunder shock!" Nemona said as Pawmo began charging up their paws and released a Tera boosted Thunder Shock towards Pikachu as Pikachu began charging up as well, "Thunderbolt!" Ash said as Pikachu released a powerful Thunderbolt towards Pawmo's Thunder Shock and causing a beam collision.
"Now Dig!" Nemona said as the beam went on, Pawmo dug as fast as he could to avoid the Thunderbolt causing a puff of smoke to appear covering the battlefield. "Be on alert Pikachu, Pawmo could be anywhere." Ash said as Pikachu nods and pays attention to the field. As the silence grows, Pawmo appears behind Pikachu and prepares to strike, "Arm Thrust!" "Iron Tail!" both trainers say to their respective Pokemon as they both clash with each other with frightening power.
Pawmo sees an opportunity to trip Pikachu and uses his leg to hit Pikachu's right leg causing Pikachu to almost trip with Nemona seeing an opportunity to strike, "Arm Thrust once more!" Nemona said as Pawmo thrusted his arms once more making Pikachu be sent far towards Nemona.
"Pikachu!" Ash said worryingly but Pikachu was still up and ready to go, "Alright Pawmo, combine your electricity and Arm Thrust to make Electrifying Thrust!" Nemona said excitedly as Pawmo charged up his electricity which started to electrify wildly and rushed towards Pikachu.
"Alright Pikachu, let's do the same and combine your electricity and Iron Tail to make Static Tail!" Ash said as Pikachu charged up his electricity to his tail which metallicized and rushed towards Pawmo they both ran until they collide with their moves causing an explosion of dust to appear which was strong and heavy as everything around them blew away even the little girl's hat which Rika catches.
When the dust settles, we see Pikachu and Pawmo standing opposite to each other panting as Pikachu is slightly hurt and left standing while Pawmo faints to the ground as Pikachu staggers a bit. Although last time, Nemona cried or teared up a bit (though there was a tiny tear falling down her face), she ultimately smiles and walks to her Pawmo who she picks up.
"We certainly made an impression eh Pawmo?" Nemona said as Pawmo nods, "Paw!" he said as Ash and Pikachu walk toward them.
"Well, I felt your resolve there and I think it's clear, you are ready for this Treasure Hunt!" Ash said excitedly as Nemona shook Ash's hand, "Thanks sense- no, Ash. Thank you for everything." Nemona said happily as Rika and the little girl smile in the distance.
"Ash is super-duper powerful trainer isn't he Rika!" the little girl said excitedly as Rika nodded, "That he is Poppy, he's a trainer who can inspire thousands in the future. c'mon, let's get your ice cream." Rika said as Rika picked up Poppy and headed to their now arrived Squawkabilly taxi.
"Poppy wants cookie dough!" Poppy said in the 3rd person, "That you do." Rika said getting in the taxi.
We see Ash, Pawmo and Pikachu carrying flowers for Nemona up at a graveyard in Mesagoza, Nemona wanted Ash to be her moral support in a way at the Jardín de Campeones (Translation: Champion's Garden), a graveyard where many champion ranked trainers go to rest and are honored by their titles and where her mother is buried.
"Sorry for making you come this way Ash, I needed some moral support." Nemona said as Ash and Pikachu nodded, "It's not a problem, is there anything you want us to do?" Ash asks as Nemona shook her head. "Nope, just stay there for a couple of minutes." Nemona said as she took a deep breath and looked to her mother's gravestone.
"Hi mom, sorry it's been a while, Student Council stuff is keeping me busy as usual haha. Actually, things have been interesting for the past 2 weeks, the first Alolan Champion/World Champion has come to study here at this school and things have been quite fun and really stole everyone's hearts in a way. I caught a Teddiursa and a Fuecoco recently as well and despite what differences we have, I love them and we're a great family in a way. I haven't talked to dad, Leoa or the squirts in a while in fact, me and dad got into a fight as I believe he's just focusing on Alta and business rather than me, the last I saw, he seemed sad, but I only looked for a brief second."
Nemona stops herself as Ash looks on in worry, "Nemona are you-"
"Just catching my breath." Nemona said before continuing, "I don't know if I can forgive him or Alta at the moment. Mom, the Treasure Hunt is coming up next week and I'm super excited yet super nervous as well. You always told me that the Treasure Hunt is the most exciting part of a student's lifetime and even though I have my goal set in Houndstone, I worry that I might not make it there and won't be able to become a Champion-ranked trainer. But I don't have to be alone, Ash here is helping me train to become the very best like no one ever was and I learn new things from him everyday so there's a chance that I'll be able to succeed and make everyone proud for who I am as an individual and not for what I am."
Nemona and Pawmo then proceeded to place flowers on the grave and ushers Ash and Pikachu to do the same which they do so.
"So, mom, wait for me. The next time you'll see me, I'll be a Champion-ranked trainer and if you see Grace, tell her I'm sorry." Nemona said now sounding sad but wipes what tears there are away and smiles as they proceed to leave but not before getting a beautiful view over Mesagoza and stood there for a while.
Ash and Nemona were walking back to the academy as the moon appeared over the horizon and the sunset began to fall asleep soon, Ash received a text message from Clavell to come to the front lobby at the school saying that preparations were ready.
They were both walking back when Ash decided to ask, "Say Nemona? What's your plan for tomorrow?"
"To be honest, I think I'm going to go back home to grab some things for the Treasure Hunt. If I'm going to explore the region, I need the necessary supplies for this journey if I'm going to survive. I also think I want to establish a foundation in Grace's memory when I get back, to make sure no one goes through their own pain like this if you know what I'm saying. I think you should come with; Capo Poco is a really beautiful town to behold with a beautiful ocean view and some of the beautiful houses to boot." Nemona said as Ash nods.
They open the front door to the school lobby when they see something unexpected, they walk in to see a large painted mural containing Grace's face hanging above the ceiling along with vendor stalls containing art. Clavell was seen talking to Hassel and professor Gible holding a restored photograph of Nemona, Grace and Giacomo. Ash looks on with surprise but when he turns to look at Nemona, he notices her tears falling down rather fastly as Clavell, Hassel and professor Gible walk over to the surprised duo of trainers.
"Surprised aren't you lad and lass." Clavell said as Ash nods, "You did all this fast?" Ash said with surprise.
"You can thank Hassel for this one, he and students wanted to honor the memory of Grace and so when I told him about your plan, he immediately accepted, and he got to work." Clavell said as Hassel shakes Ash's hand.
"You are truly a kind trainer Ash and I'm glad you're here at this school." Hassel said randomly crying as Ash nods, "It's not a problem, I love helping people." Ash said when rather unexpectedly, he was hugged by Nemona by surprise.
"Ash- you didn't have to- to this for me." Nemona said as Ash shook his head, "It's the least I could do, I didn't want to make anyone feel alone even if they're on the other side." Ash said simply.
"Say Clavell, what about the Team Star students?" Ash asked as Clavell gestured the two students to come along with both of them looking reluctant, "Do we have to?" the male student said as Ash and Clavell gave cold glares toward the students as they shiver up.
"Alright, we're sorry alright! We were just angry when we saw you and we needed to let out our anger out in a way! Please don't hurt us." the female student says rather scared as Nemona looked towards the students and sighed.
"I'm rather mad at the words you said but if you were just trying to honor Grace, you should've come to Clavell to work things out. I'll allow you to paint the mural outside, but I won't tolerate painting your 'join us' art on any other buildings or objects, is that clear." Nemona said as the two students calmed down and nodded and Nemona told them to go.
The night was rather festive and honorary after that with Clavell handing a restored photograph of Nemona, Grace and Giacomo saying he found a way to restore it, he also gave Ash a medal for his kindness saying it was from both Clavell and Geeta and to keep up the kind work.
Ash and Nemona head back to their dorm area and look to each other, "Ash, thank you for today. I'll never forget your kindness over the past two weeks you were here." Nemona said kindly as Ash nods, "It's not a problem, I hope you have a good night Nemona." Ash says with kindness in his voice as both go to their respective dorms. Upon entering his dorm, Ash notices that Quaxly and Buizel were watching a sad movie with them having popcorn and Quaxly crying.
"Hey guys, how are you doing?" Ash says getting both Pokemon's attentions, "Bui Bui!" "Quax!" both of them say happily as they go to Ash and Pikachu as Pikachu climbs down to interact with them and Ash sends out Cyclizar and Tinkatink to have fun with them. Buizel goes to Ash with him pointing to himself and the machine signalling he's ready to go back home. Ash notices this and nods.
"Alright, we'll get you back home tomorrow morning. For tonight, we'll watch the movie." Ash said happily as all his Pokemon nod and go to watch the movie.
In Nemona's dorm, we see Nemona lying in bed with Fuecoco, Pawmo and Teddiursa rather tiredly but she looks to her Pokemon and hugs the 3 of them, "Thank you for being by my side." Nemona said as the 3 Pokemon accepted the hug. Nemona then looks to the photo and hugs it as well with tears falling down her cheeks.
"Grace, I promise you that I'll make you proud when the Treasure Hunt starts.
END (Introduction Arc end)
Extra (I was planning to release this chapter on Sunday which was unintentionally Mother's Day but things got in the way and so I had to put it off but because of this, I decided to create a special extra revolving around appreciation for relatives since it wouldn't make sense timeline wise for Mother's Day to be in September. This extra Omake features our companions celebrating with their parents in some ways. I should note that there's exact timeline for this so it could take place within the two weeks of Ash's stay in Paldea and this was written for fun. Also, aside from Ash, his Paldean companions and TR, I have no idea how I imagine the timeskip designs of the characters so feel free with your ideas for timeskip designs for the characters)
Appreciation day, a worldwide holiday round the world to celebrate with relatives whether parents, siblings, Pokemon, children whoever you consider your relative. Let's see how Ash, his companions, acquaintances and even TR are doing on this day.
Ash and Pikachu is seen talking with his mom and professor Oak on his Pokemon box machine about his adventures in Paldea thus far and even shows them his newly caught Tinkatink which surprises both of them, but they seem happy. Oak is seen glomped by Ash's Muk and Delia reveals that her Fidough learned Fire Fang.
Brock is seen making his siblings and his parents some lunch and Brock is seen cringing towards his parent's lovey attitude, he also gives a huge amount of food for his Pokemon including a newly caught Rolycoly.
Misty is seen looking at the ocean view with her sisters while in Alola on vacation.
Jessie was looking fondly over a picture of her mother talking about her adventures with Wobbuffet and Lechonk comforted her while she cried at times, while James and Meowth are seen cleaning a happy Grafaiai and Klawf.
May and Max (who got a bit taller and is now around 9 years old and almost a trainer) are seen giving gifts to their parents Norman and Caroline who also gives gifts to their children as well with Norman giving Max 5 Pokeballs saying the law shifted a bit allowing trainers who're about to turn 10 soon to become trainers and Caroline gives May a Swablu keychain with remembering the Swablu she met on her journey and wishes to find the Pokemon again.
Dawn is seen preforming new contest moves alongside Piplup, Pachirisu and a newly caught Snom in front of her mother who was also preforming the moves.
Paul and Reggie are having a battle with Reggie using his Drapion while Paul uses his Torterra but unlike Paul's other battles, he was having fun. it's also shown that Electivire took up an intrest in cooking having an apron and making cookies.
Iris writes a letter to her home of the Dragon Village and battles Drayden for fun.
Cilan and his siblings Chili and Cress are having a lovely lunch with Cilan having joined a fishing tournament and catching a strange Basculin he caught which had a white stripe compared to the normal red or blue Basculin and wonders if it's a genetic mutation or an undiscovered shiny.
Serena is seen racing with her mother in a Rhyhorn race as Serena's Delphox and Pancham and Grace's (not the same Grace in this chapter) Fletchling cheering them on.
Clemont and Bonnie (around 10) were having a walk with their father and his Ampharos and Blaziken with Meyer explaining his backstory as Blaziken mask and Clemont revealing to Bonnie about being invited to the facility where the Tyrantrum Bonnie took care of is at with the possibility of a special surprise. Meyer is understandbly shocked over the revelation she took care of a Tyrunt that evolved into a Tyrantrum.
Lillie, Gladion and Lusamine were helping Mohn remember his work and Mohn thinks about becoming a teacher due to his love a science in the past even when he lost his memories at one point.
Lana was with her siblings, mother and father fishing on her father's boat seeing if they could catch the most Water types.
Kiawe and his mother were in a fierce and fiery competition to get the most farm work done while Kiawe's father and his sister Mimo were seen tending to the Mudbray, Kiawe's grandfather as a ghost watch on as his grandson works on the field happily remembering Kiawe when he was youg and now grown to have gained a lot of muscle.
Sophocles, his Togedemaru and his parents are seen at a movie theater crying over a sad movie alongside his cousin Molayne who didn't appear to be crying but rather interested in what made people cry.
Kakui and Burnet cry in joy over their son Lei taking his first steps and saying his first word which was 'Lycy' as in Ash's Lycanroc.
Hau is seen teaching trainers about his gramps strength as Hala and his Hariyama watch on with positivity.
Mallow is seen at her mother's grave alongside her Tsareena with her sitting down and staring at the grave sadly but is comforted by her Tsareena, her brother and her father as she wipes the tears away and looks on with a new outlook on life.
Goh is seen with his parents and grandma talking about his adventures in Project Mew and how he was so close to reaching out to Mew before it disappeared (A/N: Goh went on the Mew mission after Ash left for Paldea).
Chloe, her Eevee, her family's Yamper, her mom, brother and father, Professor Cerise are seen taking a hike while on vacation in Ballonlea when a Galarian Ponyta goes to them, she remembers encountering a Galarian Ponyta while in Galar with Ash and Goh and it's the same one as before and wants to go with Chloe. With encouragement from her family, Eevee and Yamper, she catches the Ponyta in a Heal Ball.
Penny is seen talking to her father, siblings and mother over the computer talking about going back to school thanks to Ash, helping her with her problems, and generally everything about Ash which her father teased her about her crush on him which she adamantly denied but not before her Sprigatito jumps up onto her desk surprising her mother that Penny caught a Sprigatito and she's happy for Penny.
Nemona is seen talking about her and Pawmo's adventures at her mother's grave.
Arven is seen napping with his Pokemon deliberately ignoring his mother's calls and voicemails.
Extra end
Phew, that was a long chapter and also sorry for the wait, other things were going on.
This chapter was made to be more personal to me dealing with loss and it's my first time covering these sorts of things, so I apologize if it's not perfect. When I was writing this chapter, there was various emotions going through my head that is sort of reflected in the work with the beginning being simpler, the middle being where those themes of death start to occur and the end where I finally accepted loss and can try to move on even though there are some thoughts within my mind if that makes any sense.
This chapter also ends the Introduction Arc, and we will now begin with the 'Prelude to the Treasure Hunt' Arc which will begin the plot of sorts with the group finally being formed and the group going through initial struggles, the arrival of Koraidon and the reveal of Professor Sada, and some character plot stuff with Nemona and Arven, Pen-Pen will get her chance to shine when the Treasure Hunt begins. It won't be 14 chapters but rather around a couple chapters between 4-6 chapters, but we will see.
I want to say this, please by your friends, family or loved one's side and love them always, I'm not good with my words so I'm not sure what I can say next really, but I hope you take care of yourselves for the future.
The next chapter will focus on Ash joining Nemona for the adventure of heading to Capo Poco with Arven and Penny coming with supposedly for their own 'reasons' which causes Nemona, Penny and Arven to bicker with Ash trying to help the group get along. The group now must work together when a mother in Los Platos has her twin children and Arcanine missing, and they must work together to find them only to discover things are not what it seems when the Arcanine Terastalizes and now the rescue is on.
I'll see you next time.