Hello one and all to a new chapter of Pokemon SVTA where today, we can finally begin the next Story Arc in the story, the 'Prelude to the Treasure Hunt' arc where the plot starts to really kick in with the introduction of Professor Sada, some character plots with Nemona and Arven, and the arrival of Koraidon with things preparing to get interesting (Also TR will come back soon).
Thank you for sticking this far into the story for 2 and a half months and I never expected to make it this far, but I'll keep going at it while I still can. For today's chapter, Ash will set out with Nemona to Capo Poco with Arven and Penny coming along for supposedly their own purposes (in reality, it was just to follow Ash) and Ash will try to keep the group calm and steady as they help a mother search for twin children and Arcanine and must prepare to work together to keep things cool.
The next Cover Story is something that I wanted to do for a long time and that is to introduce the Shadow Triad from Black and White in the story since they never were in the Anime plus a one-shot story involving Mallow. These types of Cover Stories are done if I don't have any plans for a particular character or at least, not at the moment.
Without further ado, let's begin.
Cover Story 6: Iris and the Shadow Triad 1: The ninjas of Unova
Iris was one of Ash's companions during his journey to Unova and despite treating Ash like a kid, she regards him as a great friend but after he left, she decided to travel around for a while catching various Dragon types and even catching a non-Dragon type Cramorant who stole her food once. She was invited to participate in a championship tournament with Alder wanting to retire and pass on the title and something she never expected was her winning the tournament and becoming a Unova Champion.
She heard about Ash's victory in Alola and got motivated to start training so that she can battle Ash and participate in the Masters 8 which happened and although she was defeated by Cynthia, she was still happy when Ash won the tournament and became the World Champion and decided to spend her time in Opelucid City training younger trainers. One day however, she received a letter from an organization named SHA-TRI with crossed-out photos of Ash and Cilan, her companions in Unova which caused her to get worried and asked Drayden if he could investigate.
A couple days later, Drayden came back to her and confirmed with his associates that Cilan and Ash was safe as Cilan was back at his gym and Ash was at Naranja academy which made her relieved but concerned about how they would know about that. Drayden explained that he had an analyst investigate and reveal it was from the Shadow Triad, a group in Unova who have been said to have associated with Team Plasma before being let go during the Plasma's awakening the Legendaries. Drayden assumes that the Shadow Triad were keeping Plasma up to date on Ash, Cilan and Iris when they got involved stopping TP and the pictures of Iris's crossed out companions was just to scare her.
It didn't matter as Iris was rightfully pissed for the Shadow Triad threatening her friends and she decides to search for them, but Drayden stops her, Iris asks why when she claims she's strong enough to take on multiple bad guys, but Drayden isn't trying to undermine her but rather out of safety. Drayden mentions having lost two students and a little girl to the Shadow Triad and he's not going to make the same mistake again by having Iris go out there despite her status... At least, not alone.
Drayden asks 3 people to come out and reveals to Iris that they'll be her bodyguards those people being, Hugh, a stubborn but well-meaning 14-year-old from Aspertia City searching for the Shadow Triad for his sister's missing Purrloin, Marie, a cold yet regretful former member of the Shadow Triad who left and knows some intel on their whereabouts and Grimsley, a calm yet suffering former member of the Unova Elite Four who left due to his gambling addiction. Drayden tells Iris to make it back safe as he doesn't want to lose anyone again and Iris promises him that she'll make it back alright and dressed in her original outfit from her journey with Ash and Cilan head off to Anville Town where Marie knows of some Triad living there.
END
Cover Story 7: Hau and Friends Bizarre Adventure B Side 1: Appeasing the gods.
Mallow was the cute cook of Ash's class and works at her father's restaurant making some delicious meals, she was sort of motherly and yet outgoing member of Ash's Alolan group.
She was the least battle ready of the group however as she only had her Tsareena and wasn't very experienced in battling at times, but it wouldn't let that stop her from helping Ash on his journey. Her goal in life is to create a restaurant that can appeal to both people and Pokemon and so during her free days, she trains under Oranguru (a Pokemon that trained Mallow's father) to perfect her skills and make sure the food was edible for both people and Pokemon.
One day however at Oranguru's bar, something unexpected happened and it's not the Pinap juice where a Tamato berry was used in its placed but rather, Tapu Koko, Tapu Bulu, Tapu Lele and Tapu Fini all showed up causing the Pokemon and people there to be surprised and confused and Mallow to be horrified that she might've did something wrong until she remembered Tapu Koko visiting at one point and thought that they might want a 'Alolan burger' as she calls it which Koko nods to but also shows that the other Tapus have other tastes when it comes to the burger so Mallow and Tsareena have to strategize.
Mallow got the idea of their natures and personalities with Koko wanting their burger regular, Lele wanting their burger sweet due to their trickster personality, Bulu wanting their's hot due to their stubbornness and Fini wanting theirs's bitter due to their coldness and she got to work. She and Tsareena went to the forest to grab their berries and grabbed some Poni island radishes they ordered from Hapu back to the bar and got to work preparing the mouth-watering burgers of the century.
Mallow presented the burgers to the Tapus all in different styles with Koko's being honey covering the burger, Fini's burger contained mushed up Wiki Berries, Bulu's contained mushed up Tamato Berries and Lele's contained mushed up Figy berries and they all began to eat (by taking the burgers and closing their shells) causing Mallow and Tsareena to sweat nervously and the people and Pokemon to look on with curiosity.
When they finished eating, the Tapus immediately left and came back with Lele and Koko leaving eggs on the table, Bulu carrying a large number of berries and Fini carries a Miracle Seed, and they say their goodbyes. Everyone seems impressed and they would like some Alolan burgers as well and Oranguru seeing the success of the burgers, decides to help out making Mallow happy that she made all 4 Tapus happy.
At the end of the day, Oranguru creates some egg-carrying pouches for Mallow and Tsareena and decides to come with to carry the berries back to her home. Mallow (in addition to getting tips and berries from both people and Pokemon) felt extremely happy that people like her burgers and now she plans on asking dad to add a new menu item, Alolan burgers as the eggs glow in happiness surprising both of them. Mallow wonders what's in those two eggs but she'll figure it out later as her journey continues.
END
Main Story (Prelude to the Treasure Hunt Arc 1)
After the traumatic events the day prior, it was now a beautiful day at Naranja Academy as we see Ash getting up along with everyone else stretching, "Good morning, everyone!" Ash said happily as everyone cheered on. Ash got everyone their breakfast ready to go and after he prepared a breakfast sandwich, Ash lied in bed rather bored as he had no idea what he wanted to do today.
"You know guys, for once, I'm actually stumped today as to what I want to do today?" Ash said as Ash's mons try to brainstorm what to do today, Pikachu jesters to Ash with punching suggesting he wants to train, "Training sounds good, especially with the Treasure Hunt coming up soon." As soon as Ash said that, an idea pops up in his head and immediately goes to his bag on his desk to pull out a piece of paper.
"Tink Tink?" Tinkatink said rather curious about the paper, "Oh this? This is a piece of paper that Geeta gave me in order to find the Elite Four for my Champion's Bout. She told me the locations but not their appearance and only gave me hints on this paper." Ash tells his Mons as they gather around Ash as he looks at the hints.
"Let's see, for Larry, he'll be found in Medali where people and Pokemon go to converse and the mood is normal. For Rika, she'll be in Porto Estalar where the stars point north and where the star sticks out. Poppy's is in Levencia where the metal conducts the electricity. And the last one is a mystery but says 'where I stand and where I began', that sounds mysterious, but we could try to figure it out during the journey." As he finishes that sentence, the Pokemon box rings up as Ash goes to the box to reveal Professor Oak calling and Ash answers.
We see Oak in his regular uniform as usual with Muk getting on Oak to say hello, "Muk, get off I can't see Ash." Oak said chuckling a bit. "Hi Muk. hi Oak! Is there a problem?" Ash said happily as Muk got off of Oak and Oak breathed once more.
"No, my boy, I'm just calling to tell you your gifts have arrived at my lab and also that one of those gifts is an egg from the Champion's association." Oak said causing Ash and Pikachu to be in shock, "An egg!?" Ash said surprised as Oak nods.
"It must've been a late notice from them but fortunately, the egg is alright and well. In fact, Dragonite and Leavanny are acting as parental figures for the egg with Snivy, Bayleef, Unfeazant, Talonflame and Krookodile along with Leavanny and Dragonite forming the 'Egg Protection Group' to protect the egg." Oak said happily which impresses Ash and Pikachu.
"That's so awesome! Could you update me when it hatches?" Ash asks as Oak nods, "Anything my boy. What's your plan for today?" Oak asks the energetic trainer who looked stumped for once.
"For once, I don't know. I'm trying to think of a plan for this year's Treasure Hunt and-"
"The Treasure Hunt you say? I remember Clavell telling me about that years ago, a trainer goes on their journey in Paldea in order to discover their treasure that they'll always keep within their hearts. What is your plan for your Treasure Hunt my boy?" Oak asked the young lad, "I'm planning on challenging Geeta, the Top Champion of Paldea once more by searching for her Elite Four throughout Paldea." Ash says surprising Oak.
"You challenged the champion already!?" Oak said shocked as Ash simply nods, "But the thing is, I'm also helping 3 other people with their own respective goals. I'm training Nemona to take on the Gym challenge, I'm helping Arven search for the Herba Mystica and I'm helping Penny take down Team Star. It's not that helping 3 of them is a problem, but I would have to do it all at the same time."
Oak nods and thinks of something, "Well you've traveled with multiple people before, what's stopping you?"
"It's mainly just when I traveled with everyone, they had their own goals in mind that they did themselves or had my help on more brief things before mainly May, Dawn and Serena's journey of being performers is something they practiced themselves. But here, they all asked me to help them all at the same time and I assume that they might conflict with each other somehow."
Oak nods once more and thinks of something, "Well if I have to make a suggestion, why not try to experiment a bit and try to have everyone get along through a sort of activity of some sorts." Oak suggested which causes Ash's face to brighten up.
"That's a good idea professor, thank you." Ash said sincerely as Oak nods once more, "Not a problem me boy." Oak said as Buizel jumped up to Ash and Ash remembered what Buizel wanted yesterday.
"Oh yeah, Buizel would like to go back to the lab." Ash said as Buizel and Oak nods, "Sounds good, any switches you like to make?" Oak told Ash as he began to think about who should come and thought about his team's speed and their swiftness and Ash nods to himself.
"I think Sceptile works." Ash said as Oak nods, "Sounds good, I should also note, Sceptile learned some new moves while you were away, I think you'll find his move quite interesting." Oak said.
We see Ash with Pikachu on his shoulder all prepared for today and he prepared to walk out when a knock was heard on his door, Ash goes to the door and opens it to see Nemona and Pawmo with an excited expression. "Oh, good morning Nemona." Ash said casually.
"Morning Ash, you ready for the day!" Nemona said as Ash nods, "Oh yeah, we're heading to Capo Poco to get your things for the Treasure Hunt, right?" Ash asked as Nemona nods, "Yep, we'll just need to go over to the store to grab some stuff and head to Harold's to grab some lunch for the road and we'll be good as Gholdengo!"
"Gholdengo?" Ash asks as he heads out the door with Nemona. Close by, we see Penny (with Sprigatito on her shoulder) and Arven (with H Sneasel by his side) in different spots overhearing the conversation and looking at Nemona with suspicion. Hmm, Nemona's Treasure Hunt? He's supposed to be helping me. both Arven and Penny thought to themselves at the same time as they look on with suspicion once more.
He's trying to take him away from me... non-romantically of course, I need him for taking down Team Star! Penny thought to herself, I need him to take down some Titans, he can't be going with Remora at this time. Arven thought to himself also as both trainers turn their heads to each other.
"What are you looking at one eye?" Penny said with some snark,
"One eye!? You're a nerd then!"
"You take that back!"
We see Ash and Nemona walking to Harold's sandwich shop and heading inside to see Harold and Charcadet promoting their new sandwiches called 'The Salt and sourer', a sandwich containing veggies as the main ingredient, Dijon mustard to act as the sour and salt from the Nacli line being... well the salt.
Harold and Charcadet turns to the two of them with interest, "Ahh good morning Nemona, Pawmo, Ash and Pikachu. How are you four this morning?" asked the 4 who nod. "Good! Actually, we're preparing for the-" before Nemona could finish, Harold and Charcadet hold up two bags containing sandwiches and some chips.
"I figured you would ask me about that and so I got your order in right away and predicted Ash's order." Harold said kindly as they look on with surprise, "Wow, you really knew our orders." Nemona said as Harold chuckles.
"I know everyone in Mesagoza and over the years, I got to know everyone's orders including yours my dear Nemona." Harold said chuckling before continuing, "I hear your Treasure Hunt is starting next week, must be exciting." Harold said as Nemona nods. "Yep! Starting Monday, my goal is to find the first Gym Leader and challenge them to a battle!"
"Well that sure sounds like it will be fun. I will give you a tip for the Treasure Hunt, their aces will be something unexpected and that you shouldn't use your Pokemon lightly because of it." Harold said confusing Nemona but she seems to get the idea as Harold continues. "I remember when I did that when I was younger when I did the Treasure Hunt, I didn't know what I wanted at first but eventually through trial and tribulation, I found what I wanted..." Harold said as Ash and Nemona (as well as everyone in the restaurant) closing in on the old man who simply smiles.
"To make great sandwiches." the old man said as everyone got disappointed, "Unfortunately, that will be the one thing that I won't reveal until I die. And what about you Ash, what're your plans for the Treasure Hunt?" Harold asks as Ash speaks up.
"My plan is to search for the Elite Four throughout the region in order for me to have a full 6 on 6 match with Geeta!" "Pika!" both Ash and Pikachu say catching the attention of Harold.
"Oh, back when I challenged the Elite Four in my time, they were some of the toughest trainers around, but I managed to make it through. They must've been really impressed by my skills as they made me a Gym Leader of Mesagoza for my skills but nowadays, I run a sandwich shop with delicious sandwiches to my name. I still keep up to date with Elite Four details and I recommend that you should face Poppy as I see her as the least strong of the Elite Four but don't go telling her that." Harold said as Ash nods.
"You got it!" Ash said happily as Harold smiles, "You remind me of my younger self and your battling energy radiates through Mesagoza and heck, you inspired Charcadet here to be all fired up upon your first day here." Harold said happily before continuing, "Who knows, maybe you'll help him reach further." The old man whispered as the duo of trainers were confused by Harold wakes up to reality.
"Oh, it's just me talking to myself, nothing to worry about. Now you kids have fun and stay safe." Harold said as they nod and head out the door.
The duo of trainers walks to the South Mesagoza gate conversing with each other,
"Say Nemona? Is there anything I should know about Poppy?" Ash asks as Nemona has a sly grin on her face, "For one, you'll be surprised as to her actual appearance but for her actual battle, I haven't seen much but I do know she uses some sturdy and strong Steel types." Nemona said informally.
"Oh, I see. I almost forgot to tell you, when me and Arven went to Harold's, he gave you an idea for the Gym challenge that you should face his daughter in Cortondo as your first Gym Leader." Ash said as Nemona nods, "I'll keep that in mind." she said as they walk along the path.
As they were walking, Arven and Penny were seemingly following behind trying not to get noticed by hiding near pots and alleyways until Ash turns his head around with a more casual look on his face. "Arven, Penny, did you need something from me?" Ash says casually causing the two of them to freeze up and Nemona to look on with surprise as they began to walk over to Ash and Nemona with a more frozen and shocked expression.
"H- How?" Penny said shocked, "Lucario." Ash said simply as the two of them look on with shock. Ash looks around to see a Delibird presents and remembers something.
"Say Nemona, I'll be right back, I forgot to grab some stuff from the dorm, and I need to head in here to grab them." Ash says as Nemona nods, "Not a problem." Nemona said as Ash and Pikachu walk into the Delibird Presents shop and Nemona and Pawmo glare at Penny and Arven.
"Ok, what're you doing here and what do you want with Ash?" Nemona said seriously as Arven scoffs, "What do you mean by that, I was conviently going to Capo Poco to my home to prepare for the Treasure Hunt." Arven says with some snark in his voice.
"And I'm visiting the ocean and plus, my sibling wants a souvenir from there. They want a snowglobe strangely." Penny said rather confused about that last part, but it didn't matter as Nemona had suspicion in her eyes, "Are you sure about that?" Nemona said with suspicion as Penny started to get irritated.
"And what makes you think we have any interest?" Penny said as Nemona smirked.
"Oh really, this is coming from the person who has a huge crush on Ash and stalked him from the bushes and don't think you're getting out of this one Arven, I know you've also kept tabs on Ash so why are you two doing so?" Nemona called them out as they sweat nervously.
"Those reasonings are none of your concern, I'm just heading to Capo Poco and that is all." Penny said creating irritation amongst the group as the Delibird Presents door opens, "If you're all heading to Capo Poco, why not all of us form a group until we get there." a voice was heard which was none other than Ash carrying some bags and Pikachu wearing a witch's hat.
The group look on with shock and wondering what Ash said, "Huh!?" all 3 of them (aside from Ash) say.
"We all have stuff to do in Capo Poco or at least have business going south and so I feel like a good idea would be for us to form a group until we get there and I maybe able to help you out with any worries." Ash said as the 3 trainers huddle up together to discuss this matter.
"Did Ash suggest we work together?" Arven said.
"I'm not complaining or criticizing his actions, it's clear he cares about us. It's just I don't want to work with you guys." Penny said.
"Well if he says it's until we reach Capo Poco then we can try to get along but you're not taking Ash away from my goals." Nemona said as they shook their heads.
"We'll see about that." both Arven and Penny say as they have a new outlook on their face, "Alright Ash, we accept your request. Capo Poco should only take between 25 to 35 minutes to get there by walking so it shouldn't be too bad." Penny said as the group nodded.
"Well then, a start to a new adventure!" Ash said optimistically as the group nods and heads along with Ash leading the way all while the group glares at each other (except for Ash).
The group heads along to the South Mesagoza gate where Los Platos and beyond lie, the group stands all together though being there before were still astounded by the idea of the large gate.
"I've been through this gate several times, but it still feels surreal going through this gate like there's a world beyond those gates." Ash says as the others agreed with him. "From what I've heard from Raifort, these gates were intentionally made to feel mysterious for new trainers when they prepare to leave outside Mesagoza for their adventures so I can see why you feel that way. That and also the Artifacts" Penny said in agreement as no one bickered or objected to that statement.
"Well, shall we take our first steps together as a group through these gates?" Nemona suggested as they (aside from Ash) all shrugged and agreed and so the gates opened revealing the expanse openness of what lies beyond with the lighthouse in the distance and the vast town of Los Platos visible in the distance and a rather large mansion to their right.
"So beautiful." all 4 say but as they prepared to take their first step, Nemona finds a gold coin on the ground and decides to pick it up, Penny almost trips forcing Ash to catch her by the hand causing her to blush and Arven emotionlessly looking at the house. Let's just say, Ash's Pikachu, Penny's Sprigatito, Arven's Sneasel and Nemona's Pawmo all facepalmed and everyone agreed to show what Los Platos is like.
The group walks into town, which was lively with vendors and shops, with people conversing and having fun. The group decide to check out the mansion which was surrounded by a fancy gate and were astounded by the size of the house especially Nemona.
"This mansion is huge, but not as huge as mine." Nemona said as Ash got curious, "How huge is that?" Ash asks as Nemona decided to be a bit sly, "That's a secret." Nemona said with a sly grin.
"I bet it's the size of a boat house." Arven said with a bored expression causing a glare from Nemona, "You take that back edgy!" Nemona said as Arven glares back, "Edgy!?" he said shocked.
"Now now, let's keep the peace." Ash said trying to break up the fighting with Pikachu also stopping Arven's Sneasel and Nemona's Pawmo from also tearing each other up. Meanwhile, Penny looks at the name of the residence.
"Regalo?" Penny said causing Arven to break away from the glare, "Yep, this is my residence Pen-Pen."
"Only my dad, my mom and my siblings can call me that despite me hating the name and wait this is your residence!? You're rich!?" Penny said causing everyone to be shocked as Arven scoffs, "My parents are professors after all and only Ash can look inside. I'll be right back; I have to grab some stuff." Arven said as he unlocks the gate and heads inside with Sneasel.
A couple of minutes later, Arven comes outside all prepared to go.
"Ok, now I'm ready." Arven says but as they were about to head out, a panicked female voice was heard in the distance and the gang decides to check it out.
"Miranda! Xavier! Arco!" the panicked crying woman said, she had tan skin with long light brown hair that covered one eye as Ash goes to her, "What seems to be problem mam?" Ash asks.
"My children and my Arcanine were going out to grab some berries from nearby, but they haven't come back in a while and I-I-I" Ash stops the woman before she could cry, "Don't worry, I'll help you search for them. What do they look like?" Ash asked as the woman nods.
"Right, they're twins, around 8 years old, have light dark skin, Xavier has a striped, blue T-shirt with short hair and Miranda is slightly taller than Xavier has a ponytail and a purple dress. Arco has a bell around his neck."
Ash thought for a moment and thought of something, "Do you have an object with you that has their scent?" Ash asked as the woman nods and pulls out a small pouch and Teddiursa doll.
"The Teddiursa doll belongs to Xavier while the money pouch belongs to Miranda, I found these two around the market area earlier if that can help?" the woman said as Ash sends out Cyclizar, Penny sends out her Jolteon to help out.
"Thanks Penny." Ash says as Penny nods and both Pokemon sniff the items and gained a scent, "You sense something Cyclizar?" Ash asked the Mount Pokemon who nods and Jolteon also gains a scent, "You too Jolteon?" "Jolt!" Jolteon said in agreement.
"Lead the way you two!" Ash says as the Pokemon nods and everyone follows behind, the group eventually make it to the center of Los Platos where the trail ends in the middle but Jolteon dog-points over to the hills that lead into South Province Area One where the group realizes where the 3 went.
"They did not go over-" Nemona didn't even need to finish as the mother looks on scared, "Don't worry, we'll get them back." Ash reassured as the woman looked on with surprise.
"Are you sure, it could be dangerous." the woman said a bit worried, "Don't worry about it, I've been through worst, and I'll make sure I get your children and Arcanine back!" Ash said reassuringly as the woman nods, gives a soft smile and gives them Arco's Pokeball just in case.
"Thank you."
Ash and Penny return their Pokemon to their Pokeballs and the gang head towards the South Province, Penny, Arven and Nemona appeared to be impressed with Ash's bravery in that scenario.
"Ash, that was courageous of you to accept that task." Arven said as Ash nods, "No matter how hard the issue is or whatever happens, I want to help out. It's my duty as a champion to see if everyone's alright and safe." Ash said impressing the group.
The group eventually makes it above the hill where they see two children huddled together above a rock trying to avoid the Houndoom and Seviper but the Arcanine was nowhere to be found causing the group to be prepared for battle.
"We need to do something about those two Pokemon and there and rescue the children!" Nemona said as Ash thought of something and an idea came in mind, "Alright, I'll need someone to assist me when it comes to the two Pokemon and two of you get the children away." Ash said as Penny stepped up and Ash nodded.
"Alright then, Sceptile, Quick Attack on the Houndoom!" Ash says throwing his Pokeball releasing the large green reptilian Pokemon with his signature twig in his mouth as the Pokemon rushed to Houndoom at fast speed sending the Houndoom back a bit and making the group surprised a bit.
"He wasn't kidding about his Sceptile, can't wait to battle them!" Nemona said happily as Arven coughs getting her attention and embarrassingly blushes, "Right sorry." Nemona said rather embarrassed as Arven sends out his Gogoat and both trainers get on and rush over to the children. Both trainers pick up the children and proceed to pick them up and rush back to the hill, but the Seviper decides to jump and prepares to use Poison Tail but before Seviper could do anything.
"Flareon use Shadow Ball!" Penny said as she sends out her Flareon who immediately launches a Shadow Ball from their mouth and hitting Seviper sending it back and Seviper focuses the attention on Flareon.
Both Seviper and Houndoom get angry and proceed to fight the two trainers.
So Sceptile learned some new moves while I was away and so let's see what those two moves are about. Ash thought to himself before getting back into focus, "I know it's been a while Sceptile but do you still have a battling spirit!?" Ash said to his Sceptile who smirks and then nods as Ash nods as well.
"Alright then, use Dual Chop!" Ash says as Sceptile nods and his arms glow with green projected scales for both arms and rushes to the Houndoom who prepares to use Fire Fang, Sceptile catches the Fire Fang with his left arm and uses the right arm for the other Dual Chop hitting Houndoom in the stomach sending it back by a margin.
Seviper prepares to coil up and use Poison Fang to attack which made Penny a bit prepared to fight, "Flareon use Flare Blitz!" Penny said as Flareon covered itself in a fiery veil and launched itself towards Seviper sending it flying.
"Alright Sceptile use Acrobatics!" Ash said as Sceptile nodded and proceeded to flick his twig upwards and proceeded to do some jumps over some rocks and hit Houndoom head on as Sceptile grabs his twig in style. Both Seviper and Houndoom look on in horror and run away yelping as Penny goes to Ash. "Thanks, Sceptile." "Tile!"
Ash turns his head towards Penny, "That's some impressive battling there Penny." Ash said sincerely as Penny blushes, "Um thanks Ash, I learn from the best." Penny said with a soft smile as Ash got curious. "I wonder who that is?" Ash said causing both Penny and Sceptile to go deadpan.
Err, ehh, I love him, but he can be a bit clueless. I'll tell him later. Penny thought to herself as they proceeded to return their Pokemon and go over to Nemona, Arven and the children.
The gang get themselves settled in as Ash kneeled down to face the children, "Now are you two alright?" Ash asked the two kids who nod.
"What you did was extremely reckless, why would you go out there?" Penny said as the children whimpered a bit, but the boy spoke up. "We just wanted to get mom some flowers for Appreciation Week and thought that going out there would've been good."
Penny sighed, "Why didn't you just go out to the flower shop to grab some bouquets?" Penny asks as the girl spoke up, "We wanted to give mom the most special flower." Penny grabbed her wallet to pull out some Pokedollars.
"Here, buy some bouquets with these flowers for your mother." Penny said sincerely as the twins nodded, "Wow Penny, you knew what to do in that scenario." Nemona said astonished.
"Well, it's what happens when you have younger twin siblings like me." Penny said embarrassed as Arven looks on with another question, "And what about your Arcanine? Wasn't he with you?" Arven said as the children shook their heads.
"No, Arco came out here searching for us but was seemingly entranced by a Tera crystal and Terastallised and now he refuses to listen to us." the boy said pointing over to a their Arcanine in the distance near the seal of Wo-Chien as everyone looked on. Ash looked to the children and nodded, "Don't worry, we'll get your Arcanine back but promise me you'll stay out of trouble again." Ash said to them as they nod.
"Yes."
"Alright, now I want you to go back to town to your mother. She's waiting near the entrance to Los Platos nearby." Ash said as the children nod and wipe their tears away, they head off leaving the 4 in an uncertain predicament.
"Random Terastalization?" Ash said as Arven nods, "Yeah, Terastalization sometimes occurs amongst Pokemon even out in the wild or in the case of the crystals, a Pokemon will Terastalize on the spot. It's still unknown why this occurs but I can guarantee it's a problem sometimes." Arven says as Ash tries to think of something and comes up with a thing.
"If we can't use our words to reach the Arcanine, then we'll try to lure out the Arcanine with a berry and then when the time is right, you and Penny will take on Arcanine from the back while me and Nemona will face Arcanine from the front and try to tire it out to make the Tera disappear." Ash says as everyone seemingly agreed.
"Then let's get to work!"
We see the Arcanine with his Tera Hat resembling a fountain making it a Water Tera Type wandering about seemingly confused, he notices a delicious Sitrus Berry from a nearby 'bush' and decides to go to it. Upon doing so, a Flareon and a Gogoat jump out of a bush charging up a ball-based attack.
"Alright Gogoat use Energy Ball!" a male voice was heard saying as Gogoat launched its Energy Ball and Flareon also prepares to attack, "Flareon use Shadow Ball!" a female voice was heard as Flareon launched Shadow Ball the same time as Gogoat's Energy Ball which collided with each other instead of hitting Arcanine who jumped back. Two figures pop up from the bushes those being Penny (with her Sprigatito in her jacket) and Arven who were arguing amongst each other.
"Dang it Penny, you were supposed to wait 2 seconds after so Energy Ball could hit Arcanine and not collide with each other!" Arven said angrily as Penny had a vein on her head, "Well maybe if your Gogoat wasn't so close to my Flareon, maybe the two moves wouldn't have collided!" Penny said also angrily. The Arcanine looks on confused as two facepalms were heard in the distance.
"Dang it you two, alright Pawmo dig up to attack!" Nemona called out as Pawmo dug up and striked Arcanine from the side with sending it back a little as the 'bush' started to shake, "Alright Leaf Blade Sceptile!" Ash says as Sceptile rises from actual bushes as slashes at Arcanine with his glowing blades.
Arcanine was sent back a bit and the Arcanine prepares to battle with no control over his actions, "Alright, we just need to wind down his strength and the Terastalization will disappear right?" Ash asks as Arven nods, "Yes, it's also a Water Tera type so Grass and Electric moves will work but it's likely to have fire moves due to Arcanine being a Fire type so be on guard!" Arven says as they prepare to battle.
"Right! Ok Nemona, we'll focus on evasion and close-range attacks while Penny and Arven try to attack and distract Arcanine!"
"Right!" all the trainers said in agreement with Ash as the Arcanine prepares to rush at both of them with Outrage as both Ash's Sceptile and Nemona's Pawmo prepare themselves, "Pawmo Dig!" "Sceptile Quick Attack to get away from Arcanine!" both Ash and Nemona say to their Pokemon as Pawmo preceded to dig fastly and Sceptile ran fast to get away from Arcanine's Outrage.
"Alright Gogoat use Seed Bomb and aim it in front of Arcanine!" Arven said as his Gogoat nodded and launched 4 large seeds to land in front of Arcanine stopping him it's tracks as Nemona called out, "Now Pawmo!" Pawmo immediately digs out of the ground and launches himself into Arcanine with Sceptile also prepared to attack.
"Alright Acrobatics!" Ash says as Sceptile flicks his twig upwards and hops to Arcanine tackling Arcanine and sending it back as Sceptile grabs his twig. Due to Outrage's effects, it causes Arcanine to appear confused and unsure what to do which leaves an ample opportunity for the group.
"Alright, now is our chance! Sceptile Leaf Blade!" Ash said as Sceptile prepares his Leaf Blades.
"Pawmo Arm Thrust!" Nemona said as Pawmo prepared to use arms.
"Flareon Trailblaze!" Penny said as Flareon's feet glowed with a green tint.
"Gogoat Aerial Ace!" Arven said as Gogoat prepared to launch herself at Arcanine when it started to heat up all of a sudden which Penny takes notice of, "Wait, don't attack! It's about to launch Heat Wave which will attack everyone all around! Let Flareon handle this one, he has Flash-" but before Penny could finish, Arven had something to say.
"Gogoat continue your Aerial Ace!" Arven said interrupting Penny's words as Gogoat launched herself at Arcanine at full force as Arcanine shifted gears and metalized his head and hitting Gogoat with Iron Head sending Gogoat back by quite a margin.
"Gogoat!" Arven yelled out worryingly as Penny facepalms. "Well one-eye, if you would've let me finish, I was about to say that my Flareon has Flash Fire which can absorb Fire moves so if you hadn't attacked Arcanine, your Gogoat wouldn't have been hurt Mr. Genius." Penny said angrily as Arven scoffs. "Big explanations will only cause us to lose if we don't act quickly!" Arven said causing Penny to have a noticeable vein on her head.
"Well big explanations save lives, little explanations and reckless actions will cause death." Penny said as Nemona tries to intervene, "Says the person who tried to stalk Ash and which also includes you, Arven." Nemona said snarkly getting both trainer's attention.
"What!?" Both of them say, "Guys stop we don't need to fight." Ash said trying to break up the fight to no avail as Arcanine covers itself with swirling fire prepared to do Flame Wheel and charges towards the unfocused group causing Ash to take action quickly.
"Sceptile, grab on to it immediately!" Ash said getting the group's attention as Sceptile uses his strength to grab on to the raging Arcanine as Sceptile tries to hold his ground until a bell rings from Arcanine's collar causing Arcanine to stop and looked to be normal for a second with the Tera almost fading until Arcanine went back to its crazed state with Sceptile trying to distract the Arcanine.
"He stopped." Nemona said confused.
"But why?" Arven also asked as both Ash and Penny thought about it and thought about what was on Arcanine's neck, "It's the Soothe Bell!" Ash and Penny say catching both Arven and Nemona's attention with bewilderment.
"How so?" both Arven and Nemona say, "Think about it this way, the bell is likely a gift in a way to signal the mother from earlier's own Pokemon and the Soothe Bell is supposed to calm down a Pokemon and for new trainers, it's an easy way to increase their friendship with you." Penny said to which both Arven and Nemona are starting to get an idea of what Penny's talking about.
"And so, the Soothe Bell is likely what it needs to calm down." Ash says as both Arven and Nemona finally nod and get the picture, "Oh I see." Nemona said as she prepares herself and so does Arven.
"I see, if we just hit that bell loud enough, we can break Arcanine out of its control." Arven says as Penny and Ash nods, but Ash places his arm in front of the group confusing them, "But I'll handle the rest from here. You guys get out of here as soon as you can." Ash says confusing the group.
"What!? That's dangerous!" Arven says as Ash nods, "I know, but the truth is, I only wanted the form the group to see if you guys could get along for the Treasure Hunt because I- I was helping all 3 of you with your Treasure Hunt goals and I thought that forming the group was the solution." Ash says causing the group to go silent.
"Ash..." Nemona said sadly, "But I didn't account for your feelings against each other and how you would feel so I thought that going on this Treasure Hunt together will help me try to get all your stuff done as a group and I didn't want to say no to you all so I kept it a secret from you and now I sort of caused this arguing amongst everyone. I'm sorry and if you don't want to be friends that's also ok." Ash said sadly causing the group to reflect on their actions and they huddle up except for Ash as Pikachu hops onto the field to help Sceptile.
"Have we been stressing Ash out throughout his time here?" Nemona said with a frown as the others looked on with the same thought as well.
"I didn't realize that you asked Ash with your Treasure Hunts and I didn't think about Ash's feelings or what he was doing first." Peny said in a conflicted state.
"Have we, just been using Ash to help us with our problems?" Arven said as the group.
"And yet, Ash has been so kind to us, and he helped me a lot. He's been encouraging as both a mentor and friend and helped me to try becoming my own person and not let anyone talk me down for what I am." Nemona said.
"Ash helped me out of despair when I talked about losing my friend and encouraged me to take Sprigatito in." Penny said scratching Spirgatito's fur as she purrs.
"And Ash- Ash connected with me over my family issues. Ash never disagreed with our ideas for the Treasure Hunt and despite all he's done for us, what did we do for him?" Arven asked the armor-piercing question which caused everyone to have a realization moment.
"What have we done for him?" Nemona said in disbelief, "Look, I regret my words towards you and Penny, and I apologize but if we're going to work with Ash, we can't keep secrets from each other so if we're going to work with each other, we can't leave anyone behind." Arven said encouragingly as Nemona and Penny look on shock.
"You still want to help Ash?" Nemona says as Arven nods, "Of course! Friends don't leave each other to die." Arven said getting the spirits back up amongst everyone as Arcanine rages on trying to attack Sceptile and Pikachu to no avail until he notices the way to Los Platos and tries to run to there causing Ash to panic.
"No you don't! Pikachu use-" Ash didn't finish as Arven Gogoat jumps in the air preparing to launch an attack, "Gogoat Seed Bomb to cover the path to Los Platos!" Arven says as Gogoat launches 4 large seeds from her mouth and lands in front of Arcanine preventing escape causing the Arcanine to look back upon the group in anger as Ash looks on shocked as the group prepares to fight.
"Guys, but now you're not able to leave." Ash says worryingly, "And we're not going to leave you behind, you're our friend, aren't you?!" Nemona said as Ash looks on.
"Guys, I thought-" Ash didn't finish as Penny butts in, "Look I'm- no, we want to apologize for our actions." Penny said as Arven went next.
"You only wanted us to get along so we could work together and reduce the stress of working on all 3 along with your goal, we felt we forced you into our problems without thinking of what you want." Arven finished as Nemona went next.
"We may all be different in terms of goals, personalities, differences, so on and so forth. But I would never want to hate or stress out people because of us placing our problems onto you, if you want us to get along, we'll try our hardest to do so." Nemona said encouragingly as Ash looks down with a frown but then smirks with a tear running down his face.
"Let's do this, I have a plan, but we need to get away from Arcanine to explain." Ash says as Arven nods and grabs a purple ball with its inside covered with smoke, "Right! I have a Smoke Ball for us to get away from wild battles." Arven says as Ash prepares to call out to Pikachu and Sceptile.
"Sceptile, Pikachu over here!" Ash yelled out as both Pokemon nodded and Ash returns Sceptile to his ball and Arven proceeds to throw the Smoke Ball on the ground, allowing them to get away and plan out their next plan."
We see the Arcanine wandering around a bit later as he was sniffing around, we see Gogoat with Pikachu on her back charging up Electricity for something as Arcanine notices and prepares to attack by charging up a Flamethrower. Arcanine releases Flamethrower attempting to hit both Gogoat and Pikachu when Flareon jumps out of a nearby bush to take the hit instead, because of Flash Fire, it is not hurt and absorbs the Flames which causes his fur to rise up like a raging flame.
"Flareon use Fire Spin!" Penny called out as Flareon releases a swirl of flames which surrounds the Arcanine confusing him until he saw Gogoat run by causing Arcanine to give chase to them, going through the fire and the flames to just catch up. As Arcanine was running, Sceptile came out of a nearby bush prepared for action.
"Sceptile Quick Attack in front of Arcanine!" Ash yelled out nearby as Sceptile ran quickly infront of Arcanine like a blur distracting Arcanine as Sceptile circled around the confused Pokemon, "Now add in Leaf Blade!" Ash yelled out as Sceptile nodded and made his leaf blades glow and continued to circle around the Arcanine going a bit closer to the Arcanine.
Arcanine proceeded to charge itself up in flames and prepared to release Heat Wave, "Now jump back!" Ash yelled out as Sceptile jumped back far enough to avoid the Heat Wave as Gogoat ran by and Arcanine gave chase. As Arcanine was doing so, Gogoat jumped in the air with Pikachu jumping off her back in the sky causing Arcanine to be distracted by the Pikachu not noticing a hole on the bottom created by the sneaky Pawmo.
"Do it Pikachu!" Ash yelled out as Ash immediately ran by the confused Arcanine's side and Pikachu launched a large Electro Web covering the hole. As Arcanine was about to get up, Ash flicked the Soothe Bell so hard, it causes the sound to ring out loudly getting nearby Pokemon's attention and causing Arcanine to finally calm down and the Tera disappears in an instant. The others come out nearby to check on Ash who gave a thumbs up to tell them he's alright as everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
Ash kneels down to pet Arcanine, "Are you alright Arcanine?" Ash asks as the Arcanine licks his hand and gives an apologetic look.
"Good, sorry we had to battle you." Ash said sincerly as Arcanine shook his head, "Right, let's get out of here."
A little while later around sunset, we see Arven (with his Sneasel on his lap), Nemona (with Pawmo sleeping on her shoulder) and Penny (who's Sprigatito is resting on her lap) at an outdoor Pokemon center while Ash was in an indoor Pokémon center as the three wanted to talk amongst themselves about what happened today at a nearby bench and also discuss why they went on their Treasure Hunts with Arven explaining his situation with Mabosstiff, Nemona explaining her goal she made to her mother, and Penny explaining her loneliness and how she wants to stop Team Star before she ruins their own future. Everyone gained a new sense of understanding amongst each other.
"We worked together, and it felt unique." Nemona said as the others nod, "That idea of a pit trap though was pretty engenius I must say Nemona." Arven said as Nemona looked on with surprise.
"No Ramona or Remona?" Nemona said smirking, "Not today Nemora." Arven said with a snark tone, "Don't push it." Nemona said as things went silent for a moment until they laughed it off.
"Who knew your Gogoat had much speed." Penny said as Arven nods, "Yeah, we've ran several errands before, and she can run 7 miles." Arven said with a grin.
"But your Flareon absorbing the flames was a highlight for me." Nemona said as Penny blushed, "Oh- it was nothing." Penny said shyly as the group went silent again.
"Maybe, we should work together more in the future." Penny said as the group looked at each other silently until Ash and Pikachu came by holding some berries, "Hey guys, we got some berries from Arcanine's trainer and some recipes to make some. What are you guys doing?" Ash asks as the group break out of their trance and look to Ash.
"Oh, we were just talking amongst ourselves about how we- how we teamed up and such." Arven said as Ash and Pikachu took a seat. Everyone stayed silent until Nemona spoke up.
"Alright, we've talked amongst ourselves, and I was thinking, maybe it is a good idea to travel together." Nemona said as the others look on with shock and Ash look on with a similar expression.
"Wait, are you sure? I kind of forced this team-up upon you, I wouldn't want to forc-"
Ash was stopped by Arven, "And yet you helped us, and we haven't done anything in return. It makes it seem like we were forcing you against your will. We didn't think about your feelings, and we want to make that up to you if you want." Arven says.
"Guys." Ash said sadly as Penny went up, "It's as Nemona says, we're different in personalities and goals but I don't want to hate anyone for just no reason. I want to learn more about you guys without assuming things about you or getting jealous over Ash."
"Wait wha-" Ash didn't finish as Penny continued.
"I want- I want- I want to be friends with you Nemona and Arven and still be friends with you Ash. I want to learn more about you without the name-calling and such!" Penny said as the others went silent but Nemona nods, "I want to do the same. If we're going to work as a team, we have to learn about ourselves and the way we work together and all that Anime tropes." Nemona said as Penny giggles.
"Hey! I was trying!" Nemona said as Penny attempted to stop laughing, "Sorry, I just find it funny you said Anime tropes when it's cliches." Penny said.
"Aren't they the same?" both Ash and Arven said but the group eventually brush it off.
"Oh well, I agree with wanting to learn about each other for our future adventures." Arven said as he puts his hand in, "If we're going to travel, you'll need a cook and that's where I come in. Arven Regalo is prepared to make the most delicious of foods."
Penny then places her hand in as well, "If you need information about places and all sorts of things, Penny Flores will be by your side!" Penny said with confidence as Nemona puts her hand in as well.
"And I'll be your protecter as an up-and-coming gym trainer and sense I am the Student Council President, I'll be the authority Nemona Helena-Banderas. But the one who will truly keep us together and lead us is our leader and mentor-" Nemona stops herself looking to Ash who looks on with surprise.
"Me?" Ash said with surprise as the gang nod, "Alright, I will help keep this team together. I Ash Ketchum will protect this group." Ash says putting his hand in as well as the group's Pokemon also get in.
"Oh right." everyone said as they lowered their hands in to allow Pikachu, Sneasel, Sprigatito and a now awakened Pawmo to also place their hands (or paw in Sprigatito's case) in as well.
"Team Ash is officially formed." Nemona said as they let go with excitement.
The gang officially decide that they'll head back to Mesagoza for the night, but Arven says that he'll allow them to stay at his place despite his reluctance earlier which surprises the group but they're grateful. The inside of the house was nice and yet strange as one half of the inside was based around the past while the other half was based around the future with Arven mentioning his parents are really into these sorts of things.
The gang also meet Arven's butler Terno and the rest of the staff with the butler overjoyed that Arven made friends, Gerald is seen as a father figure for Arven keeping him safe and responsible. Arven suggests that they have a sleepover style of things watching some movies in his expansive room and they watch some movies together and within an hour of their 2nd movie, they all fell asleep but Ash was still up thinking to himself.
Well, I officially formed a team. I wonder how things will go in the future? Ash thought to themselves as he looks to everyone and his Pikachu and smiles, I guess there's only one way to find out.
END
Omake
This Omake continues on from the previous special about appreciation with some characters that I forgot to include last time.
Appreciation week, a week to celebrate your partner, parents, siblings, friends and Pokemon alike. What is everyone up to around the world?
We Mairin giving both her Chespin Chespie and Alain gifts with some sort of crush blush from Mairin which Alain doesn't notice and the gift was Mega Stone of Charizard Y which came from Professor Sycamore. Alain appreciates it and decides to test out the Mega Stone with his Charizard as Mairin looks on with happiness.
Gary is seen carrying tons of Pokemon food and treats for his Pokemon (to which he has a lot of) but he has a special gift for his Starter Blastoise being a Mega Stone gifted to him from his grandfather Oak as a Appreciation gift.
We see Acerola holding a gift made for Nanu being a crochet blanket featuring her, Nanu, his Alolan Meowths, Mimikins and her Gengar which although he seems like he doesn't care, he really appreciates it secretly. She also reveals she has a boyfriend and intends on marrying him which causes Nanu to be surprised and tells her she's only 16 but she says she's joking... about the marriage part with a Cheshire grin. Nanu looks on with fondness and appreciation as he remembers encountering and sort of adopting Acerola back when she was a child (At least that's my headcanon that it for Anime Acerola and Anime Nanu).
Team Skull is holding a birthday celebration for their boss Guzma who looks on with surprise but is appreciative over their actions and gives his Golisopod a special bandana symbolizing their bond.
Leon, Hop, Sonia and Magnolia are having lunch with each other discussing Leon's adventures and talks about his new role as head of Macro Cosmos following the Darkest Day incident and deciding to run it following him no longer being Champion. He also reveals that he made a new cape for himself and decides to send his old one to Ash.
Clavell is seen on the phone talking to his grown son, wife and his grandchildren about his exhilarating new student (Ash) all while Jacq stands by.
Raifort is at home with her Pokemon playing in the yard looking fondly over a picture of her, a man presumably her husband and two children as a tear goes down her eye but shakes it off as she prepares a box to send.
Dendra and Miriam are seen watching a movie with each other and discussing their future from their jobs, how much the new student brought excitement amongst everyone and even Miriam discusses the possibility of having a child which catches Dendra off guard, but she promises Miriam that once they have a new house, she'll consider the possibility of family. (I'm a Yuri guy so I decided to include a shipping I like)
Similarly, Hassel is seen making clay art with his husband, a man with dark green, almost vine like hair named Brassius over various Grass and Dragon Pokemon (Not a Yaoi guy and yet I actually like this ship).
Tyme is seen talking over the phone to her sister Ryme in Montenvera about how Ryme hasn't been getting any rap battles recently with Tyme telling her to take her... time.
Saguaro is seen at Grace's grave holding a picture of both Giacomo and Grace and apologizing to both of them for defending them, he talks about his own adventures over the past year and how he's been doing but he's upset at himself for not helping them and apologizes. Saguaro goes home to his owned orphanage to see that the children baked him a cake saying 'Happy Appreciation Day' which gets Saguaro a bit emotional over this and hugs them all tearfully.
Salvatore, his Raichu, his wife and his 3 children are seen at a park appreciating nature and also talking to his fellow colleague Biscus (the geography teacher) over how Biscus's son is all the way in Unova for university and how he can't handle it with comedic tears.
Yucca and Cycas are working out in a gym and similarly talking about the possibility of a family but Yucca wants to settle down from her modeling career first before she can settle down so she can make up for lost time. Cycas can tell her she can make it up to her at home which makes Yucca confused before she immediately blushes. They did so, by making cookies. (What can I say, I'm too into Yuri at the moment. Hence the Yuri shippings)
Geeta is seen remembering about her mentor and the previous chairman at her office but is happy for her colleagues and her new future competitor, Ash. Geeta asks her Kingambit if she wants to see a movie and Kingambit agrees.
Rika and Poppy are having ice cream conversing with each other.
Kieran is brushing his Florges and Rookidee happily while his sister Carmine brushes her H Samurott and her Mimikyu with a smile out of character compared to her colder appearance.
END
And that was one of the hardest chapters to write, the idea was there but the execution at times was a bit rough. But yeah, Team Ash has officially formed and the plot is getting underway.
I don't have too much else to say other than the next chapter will be based around Ash and the gang going to Nemona's home in Capo Poco where we will see the most unique rooms, the most interesting of staff and the heartbreaking conversation between Nemona, her father Rolo and her older sister both of whom want to make amends for questioning Nemona's dream and Rolo 'ignoring' Nemona. Let's just say, the next chapter will be more conversation based compared to battle based (though there will be a training segment at the beginning.
But, I'll see you all next time.