Hello one and all to a long-awaited chapter of Pokemon SVTA where today Ash and the gang will get back on the road traveling to the city of Cascaraffa for Penny's search of Team Star and Arven's search of the Titans when all of a sudden, a mysterious Gallade/Gardevoir robotic Pokemon arrives to prevent Ash from 'fate' and ruining Paldea and Ash will try his hardest to stop this Pokemon and use his Champion instincts to prevent the ones he loves.
This will be the most action-packed chapter thus far and without further ado, let's go! Also, only one Cover Story again but the next one will focus on Greninja's story again along with a 2nd story focusing on adapting the Delta episode of ORAS with Sawyer.
Cover Story 23: The Old King:
Clemont and Bonnie Tonnere were your typical duo of siblings, they bicker, argue, annoy each other but through and through, they love each other. Clemont is the Electric type Gym Leader of Lumiose city who provides a challenge to most trainers but gives them constructive criticism for the future while Bonnie watches on. They went with Ash on his adventure through Kalos learning new things about themselves and growing along the way with Clemont being more confident in himself and Bonnie though not a trainer at the time, got to learn some valuable things for being a trainer in the future and even bonded with the Zygarde Cell Squishy.
Since then, the siblings have gone through their own adventures even reuniting with Ash who was preparing to battle Drasna via training with the siblings. Clemont's Bunnelby evolved into Diggersby after rescuing some Pokemon from poachers and catching a Toxtricity (high voltage) and a Yamper (now Boltund) after a trip to Galar. Bonnie meanwhile became a trainer at 9 and a half due to shifting laws allowing her to become a trainer with her choosing Fennekin as her starter influenced by Serena's Delphox, Clemont officially gave Dedenne to Bonnie and even reunited with and got to keep Tyrantrum she took care of as a thanks for protecting the city during the Team Flare incident. She has also caught a Galarian Zigzagoon, Floette and a Wimpod
One day, Clemont is called out to Geosenge town to investigate an electrical issue that's been happening recently, and Bonnie goes with out of boredom, and they leave Clembot in charge of the Gym. As they were heading through the route that led to Cyllage City, they encounter a large old man (from Cover Story 12) whose starving and asks for help. Upon setting up camp, the old man thanks them and asks what he owes them, and Clemont says the man owes him nothing and both introduces himself and his sister and upon hearing their last names and looking at their appearance, the man remarks that they two resemble siblings he knew long ago.
Bonnie mentions the possibility of her and Clemont's grandparents on their late mother's side of the family, but the man refutes this saying it's more he knew them as knights long ago but before Clemont and Bonnie can take notice of this, two Team Flare grunts exclaim that the man who they call AZ is there's and will capture him for their 'Ultimate Weapon' but the Tonnere siblings won't let that happen and proceed to battle the grunts with ease with Clemont's Luxray using his newly learned Play Rough and Bonnie's Tyrantrum using Ancient Power against Team Flare's Croagunk and Litleo.
Before the grunts could fight back though, they receive a call on their walkie-talkie's that a Greninja with two Zygarde cells, a Shiny Froakie with two blue Zygarde cells plus the champion Diantha are in the process of destroying their bulbs and they're needed back immediately, and the grunts run off. The two realize it's the Greninja they know and proceed to follow the grunts but Clemont seems to be curious about AZ and why he's associated with such a machine to which AZ brings out a necklace that contained a key and a small coffin laced with a black petal and red petal and mentions that this weapon was something he created as weapon to steal the life force of everyone around him and that he's searching for his Floette who he says "Contains the power to awaken worlds, take energy away from everyone and destroy an entire region."
When Bonnie asks who he really is, he mentions he was the king of Kalos AZ and the creator of the Ultimate Weapon, the weapon that ended wars and ended lives. Though Bonnie's also curious, they put that on hold to head to the facility where Greninja was at.
END
Prologue
Around 4 days prior.
We see Clavell holding flowers with Jacq by his side also holding flowers at dorm 108 with Clavell appearing nervous.
"Thank you for finding the key for room 108 and also being by my side." Clavell said politely to his assistant, "Of course, are you nervous about entering Grace's room after a year?" Jacq asked as Clavell sighed and nodded.
"Yeah, after Grace's death, Harrington decided to leave the room as it is in her memory and as a request from Grace's mother and not once, I decided to go in there until now." Clavell says getting Jacq intrigued, "What caused you to go in there?" Jacq says as Clavell looks down upon himself.
"It was after I talked with Ash about Team Star and her association with them and Nemona's friendship with her that caused me to think of Grace once more and to face my fears." Clavell says as he inserts the key into the lock and opens the door. Upon entering, he sees the room was as pristine as a cleanly bedroom though there were some Tarountula webs with the walls covered in white with light gray lines along the room. There we also posters of various Anime, boy bands and a hidden Team Star logo along with a photo of Grace, her deceased Sliggoo and her deceased father along with her mother and Grace's two siblings.
"I feel bad for Grace's mother, just alone." Jacq says as Clavell sadly nodded, "Last time I contacted her was around 4 months ago and she seemed to be holding up, sad but she's trying her best not to lose herself." Clavell says as he and Jacq leave their flowers on Grace's bed and prepare to leave until Jacq accidently bumped his leg into a nearby desk with two letters dropping to the floor.
"Hmm, what are these?" Jacq said picking them and noticing they're meant to go to Nemona and Giacomo and Clavell walked over, "What seems to be the matter young chap?" Clavell asks as Jacq showed Clavell the two letters.
"Say these letters, September 20th of last year. She wrote these the day of her death with the intention of us giving it to those two." Clavell opened the two letters and read them both and his eyes widened which Jacq took notice of.
"Clavell what's the matter?" Jacq asked, "These letters... They were supposed to be for Nemona and Giacomo and to tell them how proud she was of them and that should keep moving forward in life without her and that Nemona shouldn't blame herself for what happened to her. She- she-"
"Clavell." Jacq said sadly as Clavell shook his head, "No, I'm alright. I think it's about time that I told you what happened two weeks ago."
"Two weeks ago?"
"Right, I helped Ash, Penny and two Team Star gru- no, students from Team Rocket and after 'eavesdropping', I have a suspicion that Team Star weren't behind the Starry Skies incident a year ago and that Team Star has good intentions."
"How so Clarence?"
"Firstly, don't call me Clarence. Secondly, most of Team Star only joined to escape the negatives of their lives." Clavell says as Jacq eyes begin to widen, "So you mean-"
"They aren't doing this maliciously, I'm sure you heard of the 'supposed' causes of the incident?" Clavell asks as Jacq nods, "Yes, Team Star right? But didn't you say-"
"I'm getting to that point. When we investigated the details of the incident, it was from our former security guard Tiroso who investigated the incident, but something didn't feel right that day and looked back at the reports and none of them contained reports from citizens of the city but fake names and doesn't contain witness reports of students who were near the incident. Afterwards, he stepped down feeling ashamed of not stopping Team Star."
"You don't mean-"
"I'm not sure yet Jacq but it was after 'eavesdropping' that Uva may be the ones who caused the incident." Clavell says as Jacq looks on shocked, "Wait does that mean? Shouldn't we report this?" Jacq says worryingly but Clavell shakes his head.
"That would be a reasonable solution but as of now, these claims are just assumptions thus far and according to the Team Star students, only the bosses of Team Star know about the incident and if we go forward and report this to Geeta, it would be thrown out due to a lack of evidence and I have a feeling there may be more to that report that's being covered up." Clavell says as Jacq looked on in disbelief.
"Corruption?" Jacq says as Clavell sighs, "Actually, there is one last thing, and you have to promise you'll keep this to yourself. I encountered Ribes." Clavell says catching Jacq's attention.
"Honcho-bro?" Jacq says shocked, "Yes, he's out soul searching. He felt ashamed of what happened a year ago, but I feel he's doing more than soul searching and I seek to find out what's happening behind the scenes and prevent Team Star from ruining their own lives."
"You're not expelling them?" Jacq asked, "No, I was going to but after Ash told me about two particular individuals of Team Star and thinking about Grace, I want to instead learn more about them as a group and learn more about their bosses and why they formed Team Star and also find Harrington and Herschel."
"I'll come with!" Jacq says but Clavell looks to him sternly, "No. This is something I have to do. I failed to help my students during Starry Skies, I couldn't prevent Grace's death, I drove away Giacomo and Mela because I only thought about business, and I called my own students criminals without getting to know who they're as individuals. I have to fix this and figure out what Phyllus is up to if he's aware of what his student's did. I want to help my students, no matter what happens."
"What should I do then?" Jacq asks as Clavell grabs the two letters and puts them in his pocket, "I need you to stay, I'll come back when it's time for conferences and such. Tell everyone that I'll be away on 'business' and keep this conversation to yourself."
"Yes sir! Though, what's your plan now?" Jacq asks as Clavell nods, "I'm going to find Nemona and find Giacomo from going down further into his anger."
Main Story
It was a dark morning at the Flores household where we see Nemona at a patio alongside Pawmo admiring her first Gym badge.
"Paw Paw?" Pawmo asked his trainer curiously who seemed to be distracted by the badge, "Oh sorry Pawmo, it's just that it doesn't feel real somehow. I mean, we overcame our first gym together not knowing we'd win or not but look at where we are now, we've successfully won our first Gym badge thanks to you and the gang's encouragement and teamwork, and I hope this continues on in the future!" Nemona says excitedly as she hugged Pawmo excitedly.
She then looks up at the sky and smiles, "Say mom, Grace? If you're watching up there, keep watching me because I'll make it to the top in no time!" Nemona says before she and Pawmo went back inside and back to bed.
Later in the morning, we see the gang up and at em prepared to leave with Ash and Pikachu stretching, Arven and Morada checking stuff in Arven's rather huge backpack, Nemona and Pawmo practicing their punches and Penny trying to comfort her siblings Peo and Nia who are crying on her.
"We don't want you or Sprigatito to leave us!" Peo and Nia say as Penny softly smiles and pats their heads, "Don't worry, it's not like I'm permanently leaving you squirts, I have an adventure to go on with school in-between, but I'll be back as soon as possible, and you can play with Sprigatito again, ok?" Penny says as the crying twin's nod.
Arven nods to himself and picks up his backpack, "Does everyone have their stuff ready?" Arven asks as the gang nod, but Ash is seemingly looking for something.
"Quaxly!? Quaxly!? Where re ya bud?" "Pika Pika!" both Ash and Pikachu say looking for Quaxly when the gang hear lifting noises nearby and Ash goes to investigate and sees Quaxly doing handstands with him also lifting a heavy training dummy with just his legs surprising Ash and Pikachu.
"Quaxly get that off of you!" Ash yelled out as Ash goes to him but before he could remove the dummy from Quaxly, Quaxly kicked it up in the air and Quaxly hopped before proceeding to kick the dummy far away from him with a mighty forceful kick surprising Ash, Pikachu and now the gang who arrived to see Quaxly's kicking skills.
"That was a powerful kick!" everyone said surprised as Quaxly scoffed, "But why are you practicing your kicks and leg strength at this hour? Are you preparing for a triathlon?" Ash asks his partner as Penny looks on her phone.
"Ah here we are; when a Quaxly starts to mature, they start working on their leg strength and can kick the heaviest of things including a 195-pound Kantionian Tauros." Penny says shocking the group.
"How much did that dummy weigh?" Ash asks, "174 pounds." Penny blatantly says causing the group to be surprised.
"The weight of a Swalot!?" Ash, Nemona and Arven say with shock in their voice and expression.
We later see the gang in front of Penny's house once more already to go with Penny's family prepared to say goodbye and Penny's Sprigatito was sleeping in her jacket.
"You got your books?" Delav says.
"Yes dad." Penny says.
"You know where you're going next?"
"Yes dad."
"You got your diary with you?"
"Yes d- wait a minute, Dad!" Penny says lightly punching his arm as Delav laughs.
"Sorry sorry." Delav says as Niana looks to him sternly. "Honey, don't tease our daughter. Now if do go on any dates, you inform me, or your father and we'll be there to encourage you." Niana says winking as Penny blushes.
"Mom not you too!" Penny says blushing as Niana laughs, "Sorry, I had to do that at least once. But really, please protect my Pen-Pen at all costs."
"You can count on me!" Ash says.
"You got it Mr. and Mrs. Flores." Arven says, "I'm the toughest trainer there is so I'll grant your wish!" Nemona says encouragingly as Penny blushes.
"You're all great people in our books and you're always welcome to be here, I hope you have fun on your adventures." Delav says as the 4 trainers nod as Jisha pulls on Delav's shirt, "Aren't you forgetting something dad?" Jisha says as Delav remembers and grabs a box from his pocket.
"Oh right, Pen-Pen! I have one last thing for you." Delav says getting Penny's attention as she turns around and sees a box, "What is this?" Penny says as she opens the box to see a Tera Stone catching her attention.
"My own Tera Stone?" Penny says as Delav nods, "Yep, I was going to wait until January for your birthday, but I figured with this adventure, you would need a Tera Stone and one of my friends had a spare, so I wanted to give you one." Delav says as Penny is shocked and appeared to be happy but kept her stoic look.
"Um, of course I'll take it." Penny says simply and turns away, but Penny's parents and siblings know her better and knows that she's secretly happy. The gang prepares to leave and as the gang leave and Penny's siblings go inside, Penny runs back and hugs both her parents and Sprigatito nudges Niana's Meowscarada who smiled and hugged her back and Meowscarada nudged Spirgatito back.
"Have fun baby girl." Niana says as Penny smiles brightly.
"I will." Penny says softly yet happily.
"Scarada." Meowscarada says to Spirgatito who nods.
"Tito!" Sprigatito says jumping onto Penny's shoulder and runs back to the group as Delav comedically cries.
"Our Pen-Pen is growing up real fast!" Delav says as Niana sighs and pats him on the back, "There there, it's not permanent and she has her friends by her side." Niana says seeing Penny talking fondly with her friends before Niana turns to her Meowscarada.
"So how did it feel meeting your pre-evolution?" Niana asks Meowscarada who also comedically cries.
"Scarada!" Meowscarada also comedically cries as Niana sighed.
I have two crybabies with me, but they're my crybabies. Hmm, have fun Pen-Pen. Niana thought to herself as she brought Meowscarada and Delav into the house for a new day.
We see the gang walk along the route discussing things for the future together as Koraidon was out of their Pokeball carrying the gang's stuff.
"So, Penny, Arven, you have anything to do out west of Paldea?" Nemona asks the two as they nod, and Arven went up first, "Yep, right now, I'm keeping my eye out for a Titan Bombirdier to obtain it's Bitter Herba Mystica, it's said that it's good for boosting the immune system, warm the body and help with blood circulation which can help Mabosstiff with keeping his body steady." Arven says as Ash got curious.
"Say Arven, just how many of these Titans are there and why have they've been occurring?" Ash asked as Arven gestured Morada to bring out the Scarlet book and he turns to the Herba Mystica tab.
"The answer little buddy is 5, 5 Herba Mystica's, 5 titans. A long time ago down in Area Zero, there was a project undertaken to study the effects of Herba Mystica, but some Pokemon ate it causing them to abandon that project. When the Herba Mystica started to show up in Paldea, it caused some Pokemon to transform into giants hence their distinction as the 'Titans' and so far according to the book, there are 5 known Titans. Bombirdier is the holder of the Bitter Herba Mystica, Klawf is the holder of the Sweet Herba Mystica, Orthworm is the holder of the Salty Herba Mystica, Dondozo is the holder of the Spicy Herba Mystica but the 5th one is a strange one."
"How so?" Nemona asks, "Because the Titans in question are Great Tusk and Iron Treads, the Paradox forms of Donphan." Arven says getting everyone's attention.
"How is that possible!?" Penny says as Arven shakes his head, "No one knows but from what I've heard, the last time they were sighted was over 20 years ago and even then, it was widely believed to be an urban legend so whether or not they're dead, alive but in hiding or if it was actually a Donphan remains to be seen." Arven says as Morada puts the book back in his backpack.
Penny went up, "For me, the first base I'm searching for is Giacomo's base." Penny says as Nemona froze up causing everyone to be concerned.
"Nemo-" Penny was stopped by Nemona, "I'm fine, I've gotten over it slightly. I'm just afraid that he's still focused on hatred or pushed everyone away because of what happened." Nemona says as Ash and Nemona looked on in sympathy.
"I wouldn't say that, from what I've heard, he's been focused on protecting his comrades though goes a bit overboard with that rule from what I've heard." Penny says getting Ash's attention.
"You've heard?" Ash says as Penny brings out a drone from her bag, "Yeah, time to time, I fly out a drone to get information about Team Star and I know that their base is near Cascaraffa so my goal is to survey the environment before we rush in." Penny says as Nemona looks to her.
"Penny?"
"Yeah Nemo?"
"I want to join you for this particular Team Star base." Nemona says surprising both Ash and Penny.
"Nemona, are you sure?" Ash says worried as Nemona nods, "Of course, I want to face my fears and help make amends with Giacomo. He was my friend, and I don't want him to go down a dark path because of what happened or what I did. Grace wouldn't have wanted the both of us to bicker on this level and wanted us to stay friends and if so, I want to honor that wish and help Giacomo out of his darkness." Nemona said with confidence surprising everyone as Penny nods.
"Alright, you got yourself a deal." Penny says as the gang keep walking along the path.
They arrive to a small village known as Detener and decided to get some stuff for the journey and with everything secure, they proceed to leave but not before Ash accidently bumps into Officer Jenny and both fall down. Ash gets up and helps Jenny up.
"Sorry about that, officer Jenny. Wait don't you work as Naranja as a security guard?" Ash asks as Jenny chuckles and brings out a photo of her and her identical siblings, "You must be confusing me for my sister Jenny. I have a lot of siblings throughout Paldea so you'll likely confuse me with them. The difference here however is that my partner is a Dachbun, isn't that right boy?"
"Dach!"
"What about the Jenny's in other regions?" Arven says as Jenny brings out multiple photos, "Those are my cousins. I take it you're going out of Detener and continuing along the route?" Jenny asks as the gang nod.
"Alright, just be careful going down that way. We've received reports of a robotic Gardevoir/Gallade around the area who is reportedly aggressive and attacked multiple Pokemon and trainers." Jenny says catching the gang's attention.
"A robotic Gallade/Gardevoir?" Arven says as Jenny nods, "It reportedly had a thin physique with a double-sided blade weapon with a dress like pattern similar to a Mega Gallade or Mega Gardevoir." Jenny says as Arven grabs a magazine known as Ooculture and turns to a page that contains this mysterious robot Pokemon.
"From your description, it almost sounds like Iron Valiant." Arven says surprising the group, "Iron Valiant?" Jenny asks as Arven nods and shows the page to everyone.
"Yes, Iron Valiant is a Paradox Pokemon known for its knight like appearance and is said to be a creation of a mad scientist and is said to be cruel enough to slice down any foes in their way." Arven says confusing Ash, "How could a magazine possibly know what they are when they don't exist in our present times?" Ash says as Arven shrugs.
"It's not that these things are true but more of an interpretation of what's in the Scarlet and Violet books are likely not true. I mean for instance, they describe Iron Moth, as a UFO despite its appearance being that of a Volcarona just with floating wings. Another states that Iron Jugilis, a futuristic Hydreigon is the result of a Hydreigon and a robot falling in love which I have several questions about. And lastly, they describe Flutter Mane and a Brute Bonnet as a Pterosaur and a Dinosaur, what the heck is a Pterosaur and a Dinosaur? They sound like made up words compared to a Ditto, Scovillain, Vileplume compared to a Dinosaur." Arven ranted as the gang turned silent and looked towards 'you' in particular.
"Maybe it's best we don't question the laws of the universe before we get erased." Penny says before the gang all nod.
"Agreed." everyone says in agreement before Jenny shifted her hat, "Well whatever this Iron Valiant is, you guys be careful and stay on the path." Jenny informed the group who nods.
"Yes mam!" they say before Jenny and Dachbun goes off and the gang discuss what they heard, "Iron Valiant? How is a Paradox Pokemon supposed to get here?" Nemona says as they look to Koraidon who's looking around.
"Probably the same way Koraidon got here via the air gust. If that's true, we need to be on the lookout for these Paradoxes because I have a feeling, something's changing." Arven says as the gang nod and Ash puts his fists together.
"Don't worry, as your champion, I'll protect you all from this Iron Valiant!" Ash says with confidence.
"You're our hero but always remember to not fight your battles alone, even Champions need help." Nemona says as Ash nods but seems more focused on protecting the group, "I know, but it's my duty as a friend, Champion and trainer to protect you all." Ash said with some stubbornness in his voice as the gang leave Detener. Nearby at a cafe, we see a disguised Team Rocket enjoying some churros and overheard the conversations about this Iron Valiant.
"A Pokemon made by a mad scientist known to slash whatever is in its way, eh? You know what this means?" Jessie says to the group as they eat some churros, "Yeah, we need some dipping sauces, these churros are delicious!" James says.
"Wobbu Wobbu" Wobbuffet says in agreement causing Jessie to be irritated, "No you dolts! We're going to capture this supposed Pokemon for the boss and catch other so-called Paradoxes for the boss! I'm sure he wants a mighty army of Paradox Pokemon for world domination!" Jessie says getting the gang's attention as Lechonk pouted and tried to attack to be powerful causing Jessie to squish her in her arms.
"Awww, you're my powerhouse already and don't let others tell you otherwise." Jessie says adoringly as Lechonk smiles, "Chonk!"
"Oh, now I see what you mean, let's get started!" Meowth says but Jessie stops them, "Not so fast! Let's get some dipping sauces." Jessie says in agreement with the group as they call over a waiter.
Back on the trail, we see the gang with Ash's Hawlucha and Quaxly in the front of the group walking amongst the trail near a pond. We see a figure peak over from a nearby rock over to the group's right as Iron Valiant proceeds to throw their double-sided blade towards Hawlucha who catches it in between their fingers and causing the group to stop. We also see Clavell and an older looking Inteleon who are disguised as Sudowoodo apart of a Sudowoodo group watching on surprised.
"Intel Intel?" Inteleon said confused, "It was the only disguise other than Clive I have old chum." Clavell says as they act like any other Sudowoodo for now.
"Tel!?" Inteleon says, "We're only spying on them to see if they head to Giacomo's base which could be tomorrow or any day now. Once they plan to strike, we join in and give the letter to Giacomo and find out more about this behind-the-scenes information of Starry Skies. Pretty G.O.G.O.A.T huh?" Clavell is then slapped by Inteleon for that quote.
"Sorry, I'll buy you your favorite biscuits from the nearby town of Brilhante as apology for that-" Clavell didn't finish as Inteleon shushed him and got back into character.
"What the-" Nemona doesn't even have time to process it as she fell to the ground on her behind, Arven examines the blade which was pink and had flowing with some sort of liquid reminiscent of electrical energy. Hawlucha threw the blade into the air and Quaxly sent it back with a mighty kick as the figure catches it. Ash is alerted and had an angry look to him.
"Alright, who did that sick joke?!" Ash yelled out as the figure comes out from behind the rock and reveals themselves to be the robot described from the magazine who jumps from the rock and appears in front of the group.
"Thats-"
Penny didn't even need to finish that one, "Iron Valiant." Arven says as Ash scans him.
"Scanning, Paradox Pokemon located."
"Iron Valiant, the Paradox Pokemon, Fairy/Fighting. A being described in a certain journal, it is said to be the creation of a mad scientist bent on creating the most powerful Pokemon in existence and is said to slice down anyone in their path."
Iron Valiant proceeded to pick up their weapon and rushed towards Rotom Phone as the gang prepare to attack, except Ash who didn't flinch.
"That dex is full of lies, my master wasn't insane. He created me to prevent this region from dying." Iron Valiant said surprising the group, "You can talk!?" Nemona says as the robotic Pokemon scoffed.
"Can't all robots?" Iron Valiant said with snark in their voice.
"Either way, it's just describing the interpretation of the magazine and not just 'you' in general." Arven says as Iron Valiant tilts their head seemingly curious about Arven who gets confused towards their behavior.
"May I help you?" Arven asks, "Professor Orion?" Iron Valiant said confused as Arven got confused.
"Hate to break it to you, but my name is Alven."
"You mispronounced your own name." Penny said simply as Arven face palmed.
"Damn it!"
"No matter, don't use the term 'break' in front of me, I'm no broken machine unlike those below me." Iron Valiant says snarkly as Ash still is curious about Valiant, "Regardless, you just attacked us unprompted for no reason. Now stay there while I grab a Great Ball." Ash says as Valiant stared down at him.
"I won't be controlled by some ball because you told me to, I take it with your spirit, your heroic attitude and the fact you didn't flinch means you're the so-called champion of this world?" Iron Valiant asks as Ash nods.
"Yes, what about it?"
"Well if you are, then turn tail and go back home." Iron Valiant said bluntly as Ash got a bit irritated, "And why's that!?"
"In my future, you'll end up ruining this region by you and that bi-colored hair girl finding the 'egg' that can change lives forever and, you in particular ruined Paldea by letting these Tera Crystals control the region, Champion." Iron Valiant says which shocked the gang but especially Ash.
"What do you mean I ruined the future!?" Ash says as Iron Valiant turned their back against Ash, "Hey! Answer me!?" Ash yelled out as Iron Valiant scoffed.
"Why should I tell you, I thought the simplest of words can deter you away. My orders from my master were to scare you away from Paldea and the region will be safe. Now are we going to agree on you going away or do have to break you down myself?" Iron Valiant threatened as the gang look on worried.
"C'mon Ash, let's find a different way around them-" Nemona didn't finish as Ash put his arm in front of the group. "Ash?" Nemona said concerned.
"Let me handle this, what's wrong Valiant, are you some Torchic who doesn't have strength to just explain the truth. Are you truly running away from your thinly veiled threat without explaining by? I don't want my friends to get hurt, so let's settle this between you and me you Combusken." Ash said with some sass as Iron Valiant appeared to be irritated beyond this point.
"You know what you're doing is suicide beyond this point, I'm going to break your emotions apart, so you'll leave this region." Iron Valiant threatened as Ash smirked, "Maybe, but I'm not leaving without answers so we can do this the easy way, or we can battle just leave my friends out of this." Ash says as Iron Valiant scoffs.
"Fine, but I'll have you know that I'm strong enough to take on all your Pokemon including your ace so just try it. And you 4 (referring to Ash's friends and Koraidon), stay out of this one including you Sudowoodo." Iron Valiant says as they stepped away from Ash and Iron Valiant and Clavell looks on worryingly.
I know this type of attitude, when a Champion is acting all self-sacrificial for everyone. I get why, but Ash is only 12 and half and only human, everyone's got to know their limits and that he can't fight alone on this one. Clavell thought to himself as Iron Valiant split the weapons apart and threw them at a sizable distance creating an electric barrier.
"If anyone passes beyond the field, I won't hesitate to gravely injure one of you." Iron Valiant said sternly.
"And if you hurt one of my friends, I won't be afraid to reduce you to scrap." Ash also says sternly, as they both got adjusted, Iron Valiant's memories start reappearing to him seemingly of that Professor Orion.
"-ave Ash."
"-tect Palde-"
"Work alongside-"
"Please-"
The memories cut off as Iron Valiant shrugs, What is happening to my memories, what is my professor telling me!? I guess that landing didn't stick. No matter, I just need to drive out the boy and that's what I'll do." Iron Valiant thought to themselves as Pikachu hopped down from Ash's shoulders and Ash brought out all his Pokemon (aside from Koraidon who was behind the force field).
Iron Valiant examined them all and scoffed, "With the exception of your Hawlucha and Pikachu, your team is weak." Iron Valiant says getting Ash mad.
"Don't just assume they're weak just because of how they look."
"Then show it." Iron Valiant says as Pikachu and Hawlucha stepped forward, "Alright Pikachu, Hawlucha use Iron Tail and X-Scissor respectively!" Ash yelled out as Pikachu's tail glowed and Hawlucha crossed his arms and rushed towards Iron Valiant who simply blocks the hit with no issue whatsoever.
Both Hawlucha and Pikachu jump off and try again but Valiant blocks it once more, "Are you really that pathetic?" Valiant says as Quaxly jumps up from behind Valiant and tries to hit Valiant's neck with Low Sweep and it simply just bended their neck to avoid the kick.
"Really, you think that will-" Valiant didn't finish as they were hit by Tinkatink's Metal Claw which sent them back by a margin, Valiant twists their body and pretends to crack their neck (it doesn't have bones) ready once again.
"I'll make sure a mistake like that doesn't happen again." Valiant says coldly, "Nymble use Pounce!" Ash yelled out as Nymble rushed at Valiant with their Agility move before proceeding to pounce on Valiant. Before she could land however, Valiant just simply flicked her in the air away from the barrier.
"Bleeeee!"
"Nymble!" Ash yelled out in worry as Nemona caught her in her arms, "We'll take care of Nymble just be careful!" Nemona yells out as Ash nods.
"Right!" Ash says in agreement as Valiant got more serious, "Alright, no more games." Valiant says as they proceed to launch themselves towards Pikachu with their fist radiating icy energy.
"Quick Pikachu use Iron Tail on the ground!" Ash yelled out as Pikachu slammed their tail into the ground creating a pile of dust to try to distract Valiant, "You think a simple distraction will work?" Valiant says as Hawlucha jumped and prepared to use High Jump Kick from behind but clashed with Valiant's Ice Punch causing Hawlucha's leg to freeze up.
"How simple." Iron Valiant says as they grabbed Hawlucha's leg and slammed Hawlucha into the ground before kicking them to a nearby rock shocking the group, "Hawlucha!" Ash yelled out.
The gang look on in worry and fear as Valiant fought Ash, "Iron Valiant's strength is top tier, I'm guessing it's the result of how it's engineered? Either way, I want to jump in there and help but I know Ash wouldn't want us hurt." Nemona says with shock in her voice as the others nodded. Clavell also looked on with surprise towards Valiant's strength as well.
A regular Pokemon is able to obtain a high level of strength thanks to training but Valiant is on whole another level with their strength, it's like they taught themselves to fight in place of not having a trainer which shows how brutal their style is without restraint. If past Paradoxes are strong enough because of their environment, then the future Paradoxes are strong because of their intellect, strategy and adaptiveness. If Ash doesn't end this battle, then there will be death and yet, I feel afraid. C'mon Clarence move! Clavell thought to himself angrily as Hawlucha gets back up though heavily injured.
"Now that you saw my power at hand, I recommend you leave this region and quit while you're ahead or I'll break you even further." Iron Valiant said coldly yet calmly as Ash gritted his teeth in anger, "Stop talking to me like you know me!" Ash yelled out catching the attention of everyone.
"I worked my hardest to reach where I am now through hard work, friends and training. I've experienced happiness, sadness, anger and all the most dangerous moments in my life that could've ended my journey right then and there, but I made it through because of my friends and determination. And now, I want to give back to them as a Champion of the Orange Islands, Alola and the world by protecting them even if it costs me my life and so don't put me down just because you said so you hunk of junk!" Ash yelled out surprising the group and Valiant who twitched.
"Y-y-y-y-y-y-y-y-you made a regrettable choice of calling me junk." Valiant says twitching and sounding like a broken record as Ash smirked.
"So be it." Ash says as Valiant rushed in with Cyclizar and Tinkatink fighting back, Tinkatink launches her rattle in the air and strikes with multiple Covets while Cyclizar tries to strike Iron Valiant with Rapid Spin, but they block each attack. Tinkatink then strikes with her returning rattle using Rock Smash which required Valiant to block with both arms.
"Tink Tink!" Tinkatink yelled out as Cyclizar nodded and rushed at Valiant using Wild Charge which strikes Valiant, this angrily causes Valiant to hit Cyclizar hard with Ice Punch sending him flying and knocking him out.
"Cyclizar!" Ash says as Ash nods and returns him to his Pokeball, "Thank you Cyclizar, get some rest."
Tinkatink rushed in to strike Valiant once more by jumping in the air and using Metal Claw but was blocked once more. Quaxly and Pikachu rushed in using Iron Tail and Aqua Cutter and sweeped at the legs causing them to fall before Hawlucha sent Valiant flying with High Jump Kick sending them tumbling before they got back up angrily.
"Don't underestimate me!" Iron Valiant yelled out before launching an Aura Sphere towards Pikachu but Tinkatink pushes him out of the way taking the hit and knocking her out.
"Pika/Tinkatink!" both Pikachu and Ash say as Tinkatink tries to get back up but is knocked out. Ash nods again and puts her back in her Pokeball.
"Thank you Tinkatink." Ash says kindly before focusing on Valiant once more.
"Only 3 left." Iron Valiant said with snark.
"Don't underestimate their strength" Ash responded.
Nearby, we see TR in their blimp prepared to launch their cage.
"So that Iron Valiant fella is real eh, Meowth, got the pictures?" James says as Meowth nods, "Sending them to the boss right away!"
"It's go time! Launch the cage!" Jessie yells out as James presses the button and launches the net towards Iron Valiant but before anything could happen, Iron Valiant brings back his bladed weapons with a force like energy putting them back together quickly and slashed the cage in half in one blow without looking. The electric barrier disappeared and the everyone (including Team Rocket) looked on with shock and surprise but Iron Valiant appeared to be angry.
"Do you mind!? We were in the middle of a battle when you guys decided to arrive to just ruin the battle! I mean- I mean what's wrong with you just interrupting the battle and just ruining my electric barrier. I'm trying to have a sophisticated battle of driving away a trainer with my brute strength and yet you only seem to care about-" Iron Valiant kept rambling on angrily as everyone was surprised and had no words to say the least.
"I- I have no idea how to properly respond to this." Meowth says as the others nod, "Agreed I think we-"
"Oh, now great, you're interrupting me while I'm in the middle of my speech admonishing you 4 for your attitude and this is how you want to properly apologize, by interrupting me!? I was going to go less strict on you and teach you darn **** a lesson but now I'm at my boiling point and have to instead-" Iron Valiant continued rambling as Arven looked to the others and still hasn't noticed that Clavell was disguised as a Sudowoodo
"I'm not even sure how they heard TR in the distance, I mean we're pretty far away." Arven says as Valiant turned their head towards them.
"I have ultrasonic hearing for crying out loud! I am a freaking robot and I'm upgraded to the ***** brim with all these ***** things that give me an advantage over-"
TR looked to each other and nodded, "You know what, I think they win this one." Meowth says.
"Agreed/Wobbu." everyone said in agreement as they attempt to fly away, "Oh now not only you ignored my words, but now you are deliberately trying to fly away from me for no reason what's so ever. You clearly deserve some kind of award, take this Aura Sphere!" Iron Valiant yelled out as Valiant launched Aura Sphere at their balloon causing it to pop and send the group flying.
"I have no word-" Meowth didn't finish that sentence.
"I'm talking here!" Valiant says angrily as everyone covered their mouths, "Sorry!" TR says as they disappear with a twinkle in the sky.
Iron Valiant sighed, "I'm sorry for my explosive anger there, I never usually get this angry, but I had to-" Iron Valiant didn't finish as Quaxly and Pikachu hit Valiant with Aqua Cutter and Iron Tail respectively before Hawlucha sends them flying with Iron Head sending them real far.
"Rule number 1 in battling, never talk too much during battle, it could leave you distracted. Rule number 2, play dirty in various scenarios, that's a lesson I've learned time and time again." Ash says as Iron Valiant gets up angerly with electricity sparking from their arms.
"You da-da-da-dare mess with me!? Prepare to face hell!" Iron Valiant yelled out as they launch Thunderbolt towards the group, but just as it was about to land, Hawlucha jumps in the way blocking the attack but is shocked and defeated in the process.
"Hawlucha!" everyone yelled out as Hawlucha gives a smirking nod before being knocked out, "Thank you Hawlucha, get some rest." Ash says as he returns Hawlucha to his Pokeball and nods before looking to Iron Valiant who gets up angerily and prepares a sphere of light.
"You've pushed my buttons for the last time, I've warned you of your impending future and I've tried to drive you away, but it looks like you still need to be taught a lesson." Iron Valiant says as he separates his weapons once more but this time to a wider margin causing everyone including the Sudowoodo to be trapped in the electric barrier. The ball grows huge in size causing the group to be prepared to fight but the ball grew to astronomical levels before eventually, Iron Valiant hopped from some rocks all the way in the air.
"That Moonblast, it can't be that huge?" Arven didn't finish.
"It's almost like the moon but smaller yet still dangerous." Nemona says as Pokemon and onlookers look by at the massive orb and Ribes and his H Arcanine in the distance looked on from a cliff.
"Just what in the world? Arcanine, get us down there immediately!"
"Nine!" Arcanine said in agreement and ran towards the sphere.
Kieran and Karmine looked on from the distance with binoculars with Kieran being worried while Karmine stared on emotionless.
So that's where they are. Karmine thought to herself.
Ash and the gang look on perplexed as to what to do in this situation.
Quaxly's fear kicked into overdrive and activated Torrent out of fear causing Ash to be worried, "Quaxly!" Ash says as Nemona and Penny looked on with confusion.
"What's Ash worried about?" Penny asks, "It's Torrent, because of presumably his past, Quaxly activates Torrent out of fear and gets much stronger but loses control of himself in worry of losing his friends. He does have a conscious in there but it's more of as a reminder to Ash to do the right thing at certain moments." Arven says bringing out Gogoat.
Quaxly with the remainder of his conscious left, kicks Ash's bag to bring out the Tera Orb which Ash picks up.
"You want me to Terastalize you?" Ash says as Quaxly shook his head and pointed towards Pikachu before proceeding to spin to which Ash gets the idea, "No, I'm not going to use Thunderbolt against-"
"Quax!" Quaxly yelled out with what remained of his consciousness, Ash stood there and wasn't sure.
"You got to trust him on his instincts Ash." Arven yelled out as Quaxly looked to Ash with determination and Pikachu nodded as Ash sighed, "Alright, use Rapid Spin and Aqua Jet! Pikachu, let's do this!"
"Pika!" Pikachu said in agreement as Quaxly proceeded to spin fastly before finally using Rapid Spin and launching himself into the Moonblast sphere resembling a large twister thanks to Quaxly's spinning while Ash threw his Tera orb at Pikachu who Terastalizes. The gang look on and nod and Terastalizes their own Pokemon including Clavell from a distance in order not to be seen with Nemona's Pawmo in his electric Tera, Sprigatito in her Grass Tera and Gogoat in her Grass Tera and Clavell's Inteleon into an Ice Tera.
"Now, perish!" Iron Valiant says launching the Moonblast and Pikachu and the gang prepared themselves.
"Pikachu Thunderbolt!" Ash yelled out as Pikachu launches a Terastalized Thunderbolt.
"Pawmo Thunder Shock!" Nemona yelled out as Pawmo launches a stream of electricity.
"Sprigatito, this is our first Terastalization so let's keep it simple with Leafage!" Penny yelled out as Sprigatito launches a stream of leaves.
"Ice Beam!" Clavell yelled from afar as Inteleon launches a beam of ice towards Quaxly's twister. The other Sudowoodo also join in by launching Power Gem to help out. Quaxly spins and spins almost appearing to give up but, Quaxly hears some voices.
"Don't give up Quaxly! We've worked hard to get to this point, and I promised I would help you so don't give in the towel just yet Quaxly!" "Pi Pika!" Ash and Pikachu yell out.
"Don't give in!" Nemona and Arven yelled out as well, "I may not know you personally but to me, you seem like an honorable Pokemon and I want you to stay your heroic self so fight your way through!" Penny yelled out as well.
"Quax." Quaxly says surprised, "Power of friendship? How generically pathetic." Iron Valiant says putting more energy into the Moonblast seemingly overwhelming Quaxly until we see him a dark void in his mind. Quaxly wanders around until he stumbles upon a man of white light and his Houndoom who smirk.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't the crybaby. What's the matter, you really just going to give up here and now and let your friends die? And I thought you were tougher than this and the scar is supposed to show it but unfortunately, it seems like you can't accept my 'love' and 'advice' and cry about the scar I gave you how pathetic." "Doom." both the man and Houndoom say as Quaxly's Torrent rage carries on and attempts to kick his former trainer until he vanished and appeared in handcuffs a moment later with a Nurse Joy made of light picking up Quaxly.
"Quaxly, you've made it with Ash thus far. He's helped you grow with love, care and advice to keep you going. Please Quaxly, don't give in to your anger, to your sadness, you can do it Quaxly!" Nurse Joy says as Quaxly looked to the ground to see his friends back when they were thieves.
"Zor Zor!" Zorua says,
"Chiff!"
"Dough!"
"Quaxly." Quaxly says but before he could reach out to them, the scene changes again with him face to face with Steenee.
"Stee Stee Stee! (You can do it Quaxly, don't leave me behind!)" Steenee yelled out hugging him but the scene changes once more with Quaxly seeing light based figures of Ash and Pikachu reaching out their hands for him.
"Quax Quax." Quaxly says as he sees Ash's mouth movements but couldn't hear what he said, Quaxly is then pushed forward and he turns around to see a Toxel who smiles and points to their chest before fading away which causes Quaxly to reach out for him but,
"Tox Toxel!" Toxel points towards Ash giving one last smile before fading away, Quaxly held out his hand to Ash and held it with memories flooding back to him over his happier experiences with Nurse Joy, Steenee, his thieving friends but most importantly Ash and Pikachu who's given him the happiest experience, memories and adventures after a long time of loneliness and trauma. The white light began to disappear revealing Ash and Pikachu's actual bodies and a field full of flowers.
"Let's move forward, together." Ash says as Quaxly tears up and nods running towards the light.
Quaxly wakes up from that memory and with determination and the pains caused by all the moves around him, he yells out in determination.
"Quax, Quax, QUAXLYYYYYYYYYYYY!-" Quaxly continued to yell as all of a sudden, a blue light surrounded Quaxly getting the gang's attention especially Ash and Pikachu.
"He's- evolving." Ash says impressed as Quaxly's legs grew, its back feathers turn blue, it gains blue on its chest and its hair turns into a bob and the blue light disappears and goes through the Moonblast at full power despite the pain involved.
What!? He's going through the Moonblast combining the moves from his friends!? He's going to go through serious pain! Iron Valiant thought to themselves as 'Quaxly' goes through the Moonblast breaking it apart and it dissipates into nothingness and appears to Iron Valiant though appearing heavily injured and prepared to kick catching Valiant's attention.
No way, this 'Quaxly' evolved into Quaxwell and is going to be knocked out because of his injuries so what is- Valiant didn't even finish that thought as Quaxwell lets out his last battle cry.
"Quaxwelllllllll!" Quaxwell yelled out before using all is strength to kick Valiant in the face so hard that he flew into the pond below in an instant, we see Valiant in the water shocked by the outcome.
A Quaxwell using the last of his strength to bring down a brute like me. Hehehe, that Pokemon has the potential to be something grreat-great-grea-greeereee-greater. Valiant thought to themselves before they shut themselves off.
We see Quaxwell in the air chuckling before being knocked out and falling into the depths of the pond below, the last thing he hears is Ash yelling out his name and diving in there before falling unconscious.
Later on, we see Quaxwell waking up to his concerned friends including Ash who scanned him.
Quaxwell, the Practicing Pokemon, Water type and the evolved form of Quaxly. Quaxwell practices near the water to train their dancing skills. It is said to observe other Pokemon in order to improve on their natural skills.
"Quax, Quaxwell?" Quaxwell asks as Ash and Pikachu hug him, "Are you ok?" Ash says as Quaxwell place his hand on Ash's shoulder and smirks causing Ash and Pikachu to smile out of relief.
"Thank goodness." Ash says out of relief, Quaxwell then turns his head towards the right to see Iron Valiant who also prepares to wake up.
"I'm alive, but why?" Valiant asks as Ash looks at him sternly. "Because I'm not the type of person to leave a person or Pokemon dead or alive and I want answers as to what happened in the future." Ash says as Valiant scoffed.
"How naive." Valiant says as Nemona got curious, "How did you even survive in the water, aren't you a robot?" Nemona says.
"Well, future Paradoxes are made out of a particular metal so I can survive the harshest of waters but that's not the point. Fine, I'll tell you what happens but once you decide to go forward, there's no going back. In the future Ash, you sacrificed yourself in Area Zero to prevent Paldea from being crystalized alongside Pikachu and Terapagos."
Ash and the gang gasp, "You're lying, aren't you?" Ash says.
"If I was lying, I would show it with mouth expressions, but I don't have any."
"And Terapagos? The Pokemon we saw in the book?" Arven says surprised as Valiant nods, "From my master Orion tells me, yes but no one has actually seen it's true appearance or at least I think I've seen it and Orion told me the full truth." Valiant says seemingly confused which also confused the group.
"A robot with amnesia? That's a strange turn in events." Penny says as Valiant nods, "I know, ironic. We Paradoxes have a memory chip stored in us that allows us to remember most events and our creators can put memories in us as some sort of external device or as you present day kids call it, an SD card but it seems that it was damaged upon my landing."
The gang look on with surprise, "Well if you want, I can hack you to try to get your memories back?" Penny asks as Valiant shook their head.
"Thanks, but no thanks, your tech here is different in the future and would likely not work in the present day."
"Your just embarrassed about some pictures aren't ya?" Arven teased, "I can slash you right here and now." Valiant says before sighing.
"Regardless, this possible 'Terapagos' faded away and since Terapagos helped prevented the Tera crystals from spreading in the first place, it now started to reappear across Paldea causing Terastalization to occur. I was sent back to the past by my master in order to prevent this spread."
"By driving me away from Paldea?" Ash says as Valiant suddenly gets those flashes of this mysterious man once more causing the group to be confused.
"That's what I was told unless my memories are conflicting with me." Iron Valiant says shaking their head, "Regardless, that was my original 'supposed' intention but upon battling you, I can sense your resolve for your friends and everyone out there but your powerless by going to handle things by yourself." Valiant says.
"And what about this crystals business? A bunch of crystals taking over Paldea, sounds like some horror or sci-fi movie business." Arven says as Valiant sighs, "A man from my memories was trying to use Terapagos for the purpose of looking into the past and the future but my memory is hazy at best."
Ash points to his chest in determination.
"I won't let fate stop me; I'll change that outcome even if it takes my own life and save Paldea before you know it!" Ash says as the gang look on shocked, "Ash." Nemona says worryingly as Valiant scoffs and gets up via his two bladed weapon.
"I also sense your determination when it comes to resolve and fighting back but I'll leave you on this note from master Orion; even a Champion has their limits and can't always win by themselves. You'll learn that saving Paldea alone won't get you anywhere." but before anyone could process Valiant's words, Valiant proceeds to leave which causes Ash to think to himself over his self-sacrificial nature and Paldea but Penny stops Valiant.
"Wait! What about this egg?" Penny says as Valiant sighed, "All I know is that this 'egg' has the potential to change Paldea and that once you start raising this Pokemon, there's no turning back from the things that will occur, but I can tell you guys can change fate, it's just Ash needs to realize that." Valiant says before they suddenly run off leaving everyone in the dust.
An egg that will start the events of the things about to come? What in the world is going to happen? Penny thought to herself as Ash starts to get worried about himself, Clavell and Inteleon also look on from a distance and prepare to leave.
Fate? Sacrifice? Paldea turning into crystals? I don't know what I'm going to get myself into, but I have a bad feeling about this. Clavell thought to themselves and leaves.
In the distance, we see Ribes watching above the gang before getting back on his H Arcanine. "It seems Ash has won this battle but still has a lot to learn about himself as a Champion." Ribes says as he and his Arcanine trot away.
We later see Ash and the gang at a campsite with everyone taking care of Ash's Pokemon's wounds as they rested up aside from Nymble, Pikachu and Koraidon who had the least injuries, but Ash seemed to be looking at the moon all worried about himself causing Penny to go and sit by his side.
"Ash, is everything ok?" Penny asks as Ash looked on blankly, "To be honest, I'm not sure myself. I began to think about the words that Valiant said to me about me being too self-sacrificial and thus I thought about the times I've handled things by myself lately. It's not that I don't want help, but as a Champion, I just want to make sure everyone's safe and my companions and Pokemon feel safe. I want them to feel happy before I can truly relax. Am I too self-sacrificing all the time, you can be as blunt as possible." Ash says sadly.
"Yes." Penny said bluntly causing Ash to be surprised.
"I didn't mean that blunt!" Ash says as Penny sighs.
"I don't blame you for acting like this, you want us to be happy but your human too, you can cry, be angry, be happy or be whatever. Every Champion has a hidden side to them they don't want to show, and you try to push us away from the most serious of problems for us not to get hurt but to be perfectly honest, we want to help you out after all you did for us."
"Huh?"
"You helped me get back on my feet when I was feeling the most down in my life which allowed me to encounter Sprigatito and helped me get over Veevee even if I hadn't fully gotten over Veevee yet. You helped the others as well not because of your Champion status but because your one of the kindest trainers around ready to help at a moment's notice, your Pokemon are full of love and care, and you help inspire us teachers, Pokemon and students. And I'll say this, no matter how much you push us away, we'll always be by your side to fight through the toughest of battles. You helped us and now it's time for me, Arven and Nemona to help you through as well." Penny
Ash looked on surprised and softly smiles though he's still unsure, "Thanks, your a good friend you know that." Ash says that causes Penny to flush furiously.
"Well, I-I-I-I-i-I-i-I" Penny couldn't even comprehend what Ash said as the moment, "But still, I'm kind of divided by this." Ash says as Penny sympathizes with Ash.
"Well, we don't have to think about it at the moment, let's go regroup with the others. I'm sure a good dinner and a good night's sleep can help clear your mind." Penny says holding out her hand for Ash as Ash accepts and is pulled up before Ash and Penny heads back but is still unsure.
I'm glad I met you all, but I still have a lot to think about right now.
Nearby, we see Iron Valiant thinking to themselves once more and Valiant sees this Orion through their memories.
"Save Ash-"
"Work with-"
"Save Paldea from-"
"Protect Paldea while you're in the past."
"Prevent the fate of Paldea."
"Change the fu-"
"I trust you to make things right."
Iron Valiant wakes up from that nightmare and questions themselves on what just happened.
"Did that kick bring back memories or am I just hallucinating. Professor Orion, what are you telling me?"
END
Note: All ship teases are done for comedic effect, thank you.
The most action heavy chapter in the fic thus far and the most plot relevant. We get the full debut of Iron Valiant and many of the future plot points to come. I was originally going to have Iron Valiant just be caught as a simple Paradox Pokemon but after the announcement of the DLC back in February alongside the reveal of the Legendary of the Indigo Disk, I figure I could make Iron Valiant a more story important character in the vein of Terminator and that premise of coming back to the past to prevent the future problems from occurring by going into the past to prevent Ash's sacrifice and the events in Paldea revolving around Terapagos.
Writing Iron Valient's personality was interesting because I'm mainly more person focused when it came to characterization compared to Pokemon so writing for Iron Valient was pretty interesting as a snarky, sometimes comedic yet intimidating and serious character that I hope proves interesting for next time. Also, Quaxly evolved into Quaxwell.
I don't have too much to say other than we'll be deviating from the schedule a bit and we will be focusing on a two part episode with the first episode being focused on Ash and his struggles on his self-sacrificing nature and that Paldea will be in ruin and there, he is joined by a disguised Clavell (who seeks to help Ash through this depression) and we find out more about his personal life a bit. The other will be focused on Nemona's 2nd battle against Karmine and seeks to improve herself compared to last time in order to not let Ash be driven away by Karmine's prejudicious nature against Ash.
I should mention the 'egg' mentioned in the chapter is not the egg at Professor Oak's lab as that is a separate egg to the one which will appear later.
*Iron Valiant
Age: Newly built
Description: They were sent back from the future in order to prevent Ash sacrificing himself to save Paldea but for what full reasons are currently unknown due to damage in Iron Valiant's memory chip so they can't remember well.
Moves (Iron Valiant is said to switch often due to their adaptivness and intelligence so what movepool they have in unpredictable at the moment.)
Ice Punch
Moonblast
Aura Sphere
Thunderbolt