Hello, one and all to another chapter of Pokemon SVTA where we have a simple chapter today with Ash and the gang having returned to Mesagoza to plan out their next adventure out east, the gang decide to enjoy Mesagoza's 'Bonds and Memories' festival that celebrates the history of your family and Pokemon partner. However, a mysterious Pokemon named Gimmighoul has been stealing some of the people's lockets and seems to be interested in Nemona for some reason and hearing of the number of Lockets, TR decide to their next course of action. Can the gang stop them and what history does Gimmighoul have with Nemona?
Nothing else to say other than let's get started.
Cover Story 36: Connoisseurs Worldwide Cooking Blog 4: The Pokemon Bartender? (part 1)
Last time, Cilan went to the Kalos Region to go to Siebold's restaurant but along the way, he encountered a group of orphaned children whose orphanage's caretaker has passed away and so Cilan decided to help them and even got recognized for his actions prompting a battle between Cilan and Siebold to success and a full course meal. Although Cilan wants to explore the rest of the region for more of Kalos cuisine and ingredients, he decided on Alola due to its climate as well as a famous family restaurant that's ranked highly in Alola and heads off.
Cilan's plane arrives to Melemele Island where he gets his hotel and takes in the sites while writing in his blog. He starts off with Alola's favorite snack Malasadas and noted it's unique sugary taste that appeals to everyone and noted that each Malasada is different throughout the Region and how they make them. He learns from a Malasada maker that Malasadas originated from the western Paldea Region which Cilan writes down in his interesting facts section. Cilan decided to go to the Akamai restaurant and notes how popular it is with the amount of people, but Abe (Mallow's father for reminder) seemed to be handling it well.
Cilan orders the special seasonal soup with a special berry juice and upon him and Pansage trying it, Cilan wonders if he's in heaven or not with the deliciousness of the food. Cilan asks Abe if he's up for an interview for his blog and Abe is ecstatic as he's a huge fan despite the few blogs Cilan has written thus far. Abe says he was inspired to be a cook after his grandfather who served in the Navy and although he notes Navy food is bad, his grandfather was an excellent chef outside of the Navy which is why he wanted to start being a chef and learned a lot including training under an Oranguru.
Cilan is intrigue over this Oranguru sensei, but he waits, Abe mentions that after he got married and had two children, he wanted to work hard to provide for his family and after his wife passed away, his felt lost but looked to his son and daughter and remembered what he was fighting for and continued to cook for his family, friends and the Alola. After that, he mentions how many of his new recipes were inspired by his life experiences as well as his children's adventures including the seasonal soup was inspired by his daughter searching for special flowers that held special nectar for Oricorio and such.
Abe mentions that he and his daughter would likely be interested in learning Cilan's skills due to his profession and asks if Cilan could make something from Cilan's home region so Abe can learn a thing or two to which Cilan agrees and makes a special Eggs Benedict (real world fact: it originated from NYC) and upon trying it, Abe questioned if he was also in heaven and thanks Cilan and asks how long Cilan might be here to which Cilan says he'll be here for a while as he wants to explore each island and their cuisine style. Cilan asks where might this Oranguru be and Abe points to the direction of the hut and Cilan promises to help Abe later on thanking him for the meal.
Cilan goes through the forest to find the hut as well as Oranguru who was seemingly prepared for him (that or he used his psychic powers) and is ready to learn more about Cilan and his blog.
To be continued.
Main Story
It was another beautiful day in the Paldea region and we're back in the city of Mesagoza where it seems like festivities are being prepared as there were balloons, stalls being prepared, and festivities planned all around with decorations that resembled lockets and photos. We see a woman looking at her locket and, in the locket, we can see what appears to be a photo of her, her wife and daughter and their Mabosstiff. A man and his Rufflet were also looking at their locket featuring him, Rufflet and their family and another person was looking at their locket that contains a picture of some delicious lasagna.
"Catarina, could you help me lift this decoration up." a nearby individual said to the first locket person as the woman went over to help her leaving behind her locket on table and so did a couple of others. Unbeknownst to them, a small Pokemon with a coin on its tail was looking at the lockets with a cold look on its face as they immediately stole the lockets and ran into an alleyway, they went into a secret box that contained various other lockets and the small Pokemon looked at them but shook their head disappointingly. The small Pokemon walked outside depressingly but hid in the corner when they see Nemona, Pawmo and two-student council students walking in the ally.
"And then Pawmo used the tangled web to his advantage to send the Spidops flying the air without being hindered at all, right Pawmo?" Nemona asked her day-1 partner.
"Paw!" Pawmo said happily as the two student council members are impressed.
"You're amazing Miss Nemona! I wish I was as battle-loving or strategic as you." the girl with the reversed shirt said.
"Well, I'm not all that strategic, I have to thank a certain someone for teaching me. Your shirt is reversed again Emily." Nemona says as they all laugh together and the small Pokemon suddenly gets a memory in his head of a girl that resembles Nemona with similar spunk though her hair wasn't in a ponytail. The small Pokemon eyes sparkle and they begin to follow Nemona from far behind.
We switch to Naranja Academy and on non-school day with Ash doing some morning battling in Naranja's battlefield with Ash facing against Dendra while Miriam, Arven and Penny were to the side watching with Pikachu on Penny's lap.
"Thank you for having a chance to battle me, it seemed like we both had the same goal of training." Dendra says stretching as Ash nods and stretches as well.
"Not a problem, it's good to get some exercise in a morning like this." Ash says as Dendra nods in agreement.
"Try not to get too battle-hungry honey!" Miriam says.
"She's battle-hungry?" Arven asks as Miriam nods.
"She gets battle-hungry most of the time when she faces strong opponents, I had to calm her down when it came to the toughest of battles. But despite all that, I love her for who she is." Miriam says as Dendra nods.
"Not to worry my Frambuesa, I'm perfectly calm. Shall we Ash?" Dendra asks as Ash nods and grabs his Pokeball.
"Indeed, Quaxwell, come on out!" Ash says as he throws his Pokeball in the air to release Quaxwell who lands down gracefully.
"Quaxwell!" Quaxwell says with determination as Dendra nods.
"Very well, Tauros, spring up for battle!" Dendra says throwing her Pokeball in the air to reveal a black Tauros whose horns were curled up and looked much fiesty compared to a regular Tauros. Ash is left intrigued by the Tauros and grabs his dex.
Tauros (Paldean form, Aqua Breed), the Wild Bull Pokemon, a Fighting/Water type. This Pokemon's body fat can help keep it afloat in the water and is the most flexible of the 3 breeds. It can spurt concentrated water from its horns when it feels threatened.
Ash's eyes sparkle with intrigue.
"So that's a Paldean Tauros." Ash says as Dendra nods.
"Yep, there are 3 variations of Paldean Tauros and mine's the Aqua Breed, flexible yet durable. You can have the first move." Dendra says as both Ash and Quaxwell nod.
"Alright then, Quaxwell use Rapid Spin to boost yourself!" Ash says as Quaxwell nods and proceeds to spin fastly hopping to his left, right and center to boost his power even speed even further before stopping boosting his speed as Dendra looks on intrigued.
"Ahh, using Rapid Spin as a boosting move compared to just attacking, interesting. Very well, Tauros use Raging Bull!" Dendra said enthusiastically as Tauros nodded and covered itself in a watery veil and launched itself towards Quaxwell as Ash prepares himself.
"Quaxwell dodge!" Ash yelled out as Quaxwell jumped out of the way before Ash called out another move, "Now Low Sweep!" Quaxwell followed Ash's instructions and his legs glowed allowing Quaxwell to sweep Tauros who stumbles and is almost sent flying.
"Realign yourself with Aqua Jet!" Dendra yelled out as Tauros covered itself in a watery veil and launched itself towards Quaxwell.
"Guess like we'll use Aqua Jet as well." Ash says as Quaxwell launched itself towards Tauros causing them to collide with one another and hop off each other.
"You're good Ms Dendra." Ash says.
"Thanks, but your also good." Dendra compliments.
"Thanks. Alright then, Quaxwell, Aqua Cutter!" Ash says as Quaxwell nods and rushes towards Tauros as Dendra prepares herself.
"Use Smart Strike!" Dendra says as Tauros nods and his horns glowed with a dark gray and clashed with Quaxwell's Aqua Cutter, "Now use Raging Bull to push Quaxwell back!" Dendra says as Tauros launched itself in a watery veil to send Quaxwell flying.
"Quaxwell!" Ash yelled out worryingly as Quaxwell tries to get up and Dendra confidently smiles.
"Use Body Press!" Dendra says as Tauros's stomach glows red and jumps in the air attempting to slam Quaxwell. Ash grits his teeth but remembers Quaxly's leg training prior to leaving Penny's house the other day and nods.
"Alright Quaxwell, you're up for leg training?" Ash asks Quaxwell remembers and nods, "Alright, stop that Tauros with your legs." Ash says as Quaxwell handstands and manages to hold onto Tauros with his legs surprising everyone.
"Now send it flying with Low Sweep!" Ash says as Quaxwell impresses everyone again by pushing Tauros up in the air with his legs and jumps before using an overhead kick to send Tauros flying forward.
"Now for an Aqua Jet!" Ash says as Quaxwell launches itself with Aqua Jet hitting Tauros in a surprising combo which impresses everyone including Dendra and her Tauros.
"That Quaxwell is certainly strong, what does it train with?" Miriam says in shock.
"Lots of heavy bags and training dummies for his legs." Penny simply says surprising the nurse.
"Ash uses that!?" Miriam says in shock as Penny shakes her head.
"No, no, Quaxwell likes to do so on its own, Ash teaches Quaxwell through battles." Penny says as Dendra smirks.
"Well, no matter what sort of training, that Quaxwell is strong. Shall we finish this?" Dendra asks grabbing a Tera Orb as Ash nods and grabs his Tera orb.
"Of course." Ash says as both trainers throw their Tera orbs towards their Pokemon Terastallizing them with Quaxwell with his Water Tera and Tauros with a Steel Tera which resembles an axe of some sort.
"Use Aqua Cutter!" Ash yelled out as Quaxwell rushes towards Tauros with his Tera hat glowing and created watery leg blades as Dendra calls out her move.
"Use Smart Strike!" Dendra yelled out as Tauros Tera hat glowed and Tauros rushed towards Quaxwell with glowing horns as both Pokemon clashed with one another at full force. Both Pokemon were at a standstill with their moves as both tried to get the upper hand as Ash thought of something.
"Use Aqua Jet to give yourself a boost!" Ash says as Quaxwell nods and launches itself with Aqua Jet allowing him to use Aqua Cutter without any issue and sending Tauros back by a huge margin.
"Guess like it's time to finish things, use Raging Bull!" Dendra says as Tauros launches itself in a heavily watery veil and rushes towards Quaxwell.
"Quaxwell, use Aqua Jet at full force!" Ash says as Quaxwell nods and charges at Tauros with all his strength with both Pokemon colliding as the dust appears, the dust settles o reveal that both were knocked out surprising the group but both trainers didn't take the lost to heart and went to their Pokemon to help them up.
"You alright Quaxwell?" Ash asks as Quaxwell grabs onto Ash's hand and nods before both go to Dendra and Tauros.
"You were amazing Tauros, guess like we'll have to work even harder next time." Dendra says as Tauros cheered his name happily in agreement.
"That was some amazing skills Ms. Dendra." Ash says as Dendra chuckles.
"Stop, you're the amazing one out there." Dendra says in denial, but bot trainers just laugh it off as the group look on impressed.
"Well would you look at that, they both love to battle, and both take their defeats well. Just what I expected." Arven says as both Miriam and Penny blush towards the two trainers and softly smile.
"And those are the reasons I love Ash/Dendra in the first place." both Penny and Miriam say at the same time before Penny immediately blushes and looks away as Miriam softly giggles and Pikachu smiles. Clapping was heard in the distance as Clavell walks alongside a short, fashionable old woman with dark skin and puffy gray hair below Ash's height as they both walk towards the trainers.
"And that is what I call good sportsmanship between teacher and student, no hard losses and both get along after a battle." Clavell says as Ash turns towards Clavell and the lady.
"Oh hello Mr. Clavell." Ash
"Good morning, young Ash, I see you've returned from your adventures out west." Clavell says as Ash nods.
"Yep, me and my friends are staying here the next couple days to plan our adventure eastward and I figured I take in some morning battles." Ash says as Clavell nods.
"Ah early morning battles, a good way to start the morning. I actually wanted to give you and Pikachu something special as a thank you once again for joining our academy and with that, I'll let Madame Lantana take over." Clavell says as the small oldster walks to Ash.
"I am Madame Lantana, and I am a famous fashion designer and founder of Paldea's Punto de Moda and I've designed outfits for many a long, long time, but I've also designed many a Regional Champion's famous clothing also for very long. Cynthia's black jacket, shirt and pants, Geeta's suit, Iris's and Diantha's dresses, Mustard's hat, and most recently, Leon's fancy red uniform I call 'Regalia'. So, I worked hard on your outfit, the 3-time or I guess 4-time counting here Champion, Ash Ketchum. In the Paldea region, most Champion ranked individuals are identified by a red, blue or yellow vest-"
Ash turns to Arven with surprise.
"Arven, I didn't know you were a Champion?" Ash says as Arven stares at him with a deadpan expression.
"You should probably finish hearing what she has to say." Arven says with a deadpan tone.
"Where was I, oh right. Vests with black marks on them but I wanted to make something special for the ultimate Champion and his special Ace, I present to you your first Champion clothing, the 'Convertible Regalia'" Lantana says holding out two pieces of clothing as Ash grabs it to show a black, smooth vest with a gold-colored mark at the tip of the vest and a 2nd much smaller vest for Pikachu. The vest was larger than most vests with even an extra section. Lantana looks to Ash with approval and Ash tries it on as Ash slipped in comfortably and the extra section resembled some sort of hood.
"Woah, this feels-"
"Smooth? Indeed, I made this out of the finest materials of Dubwool wool, Leavanny, Ariados, and Spidops silk, Frosmoth scales and black dye. It's made to be extra durable against the winds and colds. If you pull out some of the extra sections of the vest, you'll have yourself a cape." Fantana said as Ash pulled out an extra piece of the clothing and now it resembled a long cape in a way as he puts it on as he impresses the crowd and Ash looks in a mirror.
"Your right, it's practically a long cape." Ash says as Lantana smiled.
"I'm glad you like it. A Champion's cape is the most important part of the design as it isn't just for show but also to display one's character and might in a way. But if you take off the vest again." Lantana says as Ash takes off the vest and Lantana adjusted the extra sections a bit and ushered Ash to put it back on to reveal Ash was wearing a sort of cape coat or cape poncho in a way.
"A cape poncho, popular in the wintertime to protect against cold winds. But don't forget, I also design clothing for a Champion's Ace and here's one befitting for Pikachu." Lantana said as she shuffled over to Pikachu and puts the vest into its cape poncho form as Pikachu as the crowd around them began to awe at Pikachu's cuteness so did Penny.
"Awww! You're so adorable!" Penny says as she nuzzled Pikachu who blushes embarrassingly as Lantana shuffles back to Ash.
"And I have one last outfit for you. For fancy occasions, I designed an outfit similar to Leon's Regalia outfit and so low and behold your very own Regalia called the 'Mach 2 Regalia'." Lantana says as she gives Ash a blue suit with a white undershirt and black tie as Ash nods before he proceeds to change the cape form of the convertible Regalia to the Vest form.
"These are wonderful, thank you." Ash says sincerely as Lantana nodded.
"It's no problem my Champion, now if you'll excuse me, I have more clothing to plan out." Lantana said as she shuffled away and Clavell stepped forward.
"I'm sure that was a lovely gift for you Ash. Do you have any plans for the rest of the day?" Clavell asks as Ash shrugs and that's when Penny gets up to go to Ash.
"Why not walk around town and enjoy the Bonds and Memory's festival going on right now? It's a good way to bond with your mons even more. There's games, stalls, food and conversations" Penny suggested as Ash remembered the thing that Nemona talked about.
"That sounds fun." Ash said as Clavell stepped in.
"Indeed, it does, it's a day of looking fondly over your adventures and friendships over the years and trust me, they get sad really quickly." Clavell said looking kind of sad towards this event as Ash looks to Quaxwell and Pikachu who just climbed his shoulder.
"Well, what do you think?" Ash asked his two mons as they cheered their names happily in agreement as Ash nods.
"Then it's settled then." Ash says as the gang went along and did their activities.
We see Ash and the gang plus Clavell walk through town admiring the decorations and festivities going on in the town as the kids played, the adults danced and the Pokemon enjoy their treats as Nemona saw the group and went over to them.
"Hey guys, enjoying the festival thus far?" Nemona says as the gang nod.
"We're just starting to enjoy it thus far, what were your plans?" Ash asked.
"Just Student Council things and then me and Pawmo were Berry shopping and even had a battle. We also reminisced about my mom and Grace and how much adventures we have them." Nemona said with a bittersweet tone.
"This festival and these lockets mean a lot to these people, doesn't it?" Ash asked as the gang nod as a familiar old man and his Charcadet walk towards the group.
"Indeed, young Ash, even the simplest of pictures can contain the fondest of memories don't you agree Nemona." the voice said as Ash and the gang turn to the old man revealing him to be Harold.
"Harold. Another year of fun?" Arven says as Harold nods.
"Indeed, young Arven, I got to make the most out of my remaining years and Charcadet really wanted to participate in the Flaming Bonds event in 2 days and I want to work hard with Charcadet." Harold says happily as Charcadet cheers his name happily around him.
"Now don't go saying that but the Flaming Bonds festival?" Ash asks as Harold nods.
"It's a festival between you and either 1 or 2 Fire types in fun games and even a battle. I aced those games when I was your age and when I was a Fire type Gym Leader, you should've seen my mad skills. You should participate." Harold said with fire in his soul as Ash looks interested and nods before Harold turns to Nemona, "But where was I? Oh right, Nemona, you still have Chella's Locket, right?" Harold asks as Nemona nods and grabs it out of her bag as the mysterious small Pokemon from earlier looks on with intrigue. Nemona pulls it out to reveal a Locket with was a darker gold compared to Ash and Penny's bright gold Locket as the gang look on in awe.
"Woah, it's so-" Penny didn't finish as Nemona intervened.
"Old? I get that a lot. Most lockets nowadays are silver or bright gold, but this particular locket comes from the 60's." Nemona says casually as Ash got intrigued.
"Chella?" Ash asks as Nemona nods.
"Yes, Chella was my great-grandmother and I got it before she passed 6 years ago. She told me to always treasure the memories that are in this locket and a locket of my very own, so I keep it around as a reminder to always treasure the memories I have with my friends and family because some day, you or they might not be around in the future." Nemona said solemnly as Harold nods.
"Chella was a beautiful woman, my childhood friend and was like a big sister to me. But this isn't about me or me trying to make things sad, we should enjoy the festival together." Harold says as the gang nod and Ash gains a new understanding of the locket as he looks to his bright gold locket and nods. Meanwhile, the mysterious Pokemon gets memories of the person resembling Nemona and the name Chella as the Pokemon nods to itself and continues to follow the group.
We see the gang continue walking around the plaza with more fun to be had with the stalls and food vendors as Pikachu points out a particular booth and Pikachu taps his trainer to get his attention.
"Pika, Pika?" Pikachu asked getting Ash's attention.
"What's up buddy?" Ash asked as Pikachu pointed towards a photo booth where they see some families taking their pictures and overall having fun as Ash nods, "Oh yeah, we didn't have a chance to get a picture with the team, so let's do that." Ash says as he walks over to one of the photo stalls and sends out his team with Quaxwell stretching, Tinkatink polishing her rattle, Nymble hiding behind Tinkatink, Staraptor cleaning his wings and Cyclizar and Koraidon comedically bickering.
"Alright guys, we're going to take a picture all together now. So, be on your best behavior, alright?" Ash says as his Pokemon nod and got into position with Koraidon laying down behind the group but still remaining visible, Nymble was on top of Ash's head and everyone else stood still as the picture was taken by the photographer.
"And presto, your photo is perfect amigo. Would you like this to be placed in your locket as well as the photos copied and mailed to you?" the photographer asked as Ash nods and puts his address in Pallet Town but was confused on the 2nd address.
"How do I send this to my dorm?" Ash asked as Clavell walked towards Ash.
"We do have a mail system over in our schools, just put in your academy and your dorm number and we can send that to you in no time." Clavell says as Ash finishes putting in the details before handing his locket in and letting the photographer do his work.
"And here we are, your photo in your first locket is finished." the photographer says as Ash thanks him and looks at it to see the locket to see his team.
"This is gorgeous, isn't it buddy?" Ash asked his Pikachu.
"Pika!" Pikachu said happily.
"I'll have to work on the locket during my time in Paldea." Ash says as Penny notices something in particular.
"Hey, look at those 3." Penny says as the gang turn to see a Chimchar running away mischievous carrying a bow from a shy and nervous Turtwig who was chasing Chimchar and a Piplup acted a bit snotty like a royal prince.
The Sinnoh Starters in Paldea? That Chimchar is a lot more mischievous than my Infernape, the Turtwig is shyer compared to my Torterra and Piplup, well, not too different from Dawn's but it is a bit more... snobbish? Ash thought to himself as he sees a familiar greaser like fellow with blue highlights in his hair and his blue Squawkabilly stand in front of Chimchar.
"Chimchar, return that bow to Turtwig." the figure said as Chimchar looked conflicted but sighed as placed the bow back on Turtwig before apologizing. The boy smiled and picked up Chimchar, "I have something even better, a fireproof bandana for the two of us!" the boy said with fire in his voice as Chimchar smiled and nodded.
"Turtwig, are you there?" a deep, female voice was heard as Turtwig's eyes sparkled and ran over to the emo looking girl with red highlights in her hair and her Delphox as the girl picked up Turtwig and smiled.
"Piplup?" a soft, female voice was heard as Piplup straightened up and slowly went to the green haired girl, the blonde man and the service Lycanroc as Piplup helped his trainer out as Ash recognized the trainers.
"Dean, Sarah, Verde, Dux, is that you?" Ash says as the trainers (sans Verde for obvious reasons) turned to Ash and Dean smirked and walked over.
"Yo Ash!" Dean said as he high fived Ash, "Been a while, hasn't it?" Dean said as Ash nods.
"Yeah, and you got your pompadour dyed." Ash says as Dean nodded.
"Yeah, Verde wanted me and Sarah to have colored hair similar to her and also for her project and thus we granted her request." Dean said as his Chimchar and Squawkabilly greet Ash's Pikachu happily as Ash took notice.
"Did you guys go to Sinnoh?" Ash says as Sarah walks forwards and shook her head.
"You could say that but no, a Sinnoh scientist was lost in the Vast Beyond and we helped him to Artezon. As thanks, he gave us these Pokemon saying he worked for a professor in Sinnoh and wanted to give these Pokemon to truly caring trainers." Sarah says as she nuzzles Turtwig.
"And Piplup here is a real helper, I may not be able to see what he's doing and may sometimes act a bit reckless, but I can tell he cares even if I can't see him." Verde said as Piplup nods.
"So, how's your journey going? Accomplished anything on your Treasure Hunt? Anything battle worthy?" Dean said with fire in his eyes as Ash shook his head while Penny and Arven gave slight nods.
Dean nods.
"Understandable but as for me." Dean pulls out a picture book that contains many photos of many monuments and sights throughout the eastern half of Paldea such as a secluded beach with a Pokemon center, a city skyline in the distance and various statues resembling Sunflora as the gang look impressed.
"Wow, you managed to find two of the ten sights of Paldea." Ash says as Dean smirks.
"Thanks." Dean says.
"You're not the only one who's accomplished something, check this out." Verde says as Dux got out what appears to be folded paper and unfolds the paper to show Verde's panorama with impressive pencil sketches of the Vast Beyond, some small towns and the city of Artazon which also leaves the gang impressed.
"Verde, this is gorgeous." Penny says impressed which causes Verde to blush.
"Thanks, but I couldn't have done it without Dux, Lycanroc's and Piplup's help. I may not be able to see my work, but I want to show how capable I am with my blindness." Verde says as Penny nods in agreement.
"And I'm sure you will!"
"Thanks Penny. Oh, I know, I'll find myself a Lucario and master this Aura concept so I can see somewhat!" Verde says.
"Well, it takes a lot of training to master that concept." Ash says as Verde looks determined.
"When has that stopped me from-" as Verde and Ash were having their conversation, Nemona looked more confident about her sucesses.
"I've gotten my first Gym badge. I bet your still working on yours Sar-AH!" Nemona said surprised as she saw two Gym badges of Sarah that resembles grass and a thunderbolt respectively as Sarah softly smirked.
"Because of my skills during the Gym test, I was able to get a harder yet satisfying battle. You'll have to keep up if you want to reach my level." Sarah said as Nemona sighed but had a confident smirk.
"Oh, I'll catch up alright. But I've been training under Ash, and I've gotten stronger and totally didn't lose my 2nd Gym battle because I was overconfident. Point being, I'm all fired up and I'm ready for a battle. What do you say?" Nemona says as Sarah smirked.
"Well bring it o-" Sarah didn't finish as a stomach was heard grumbling and Arven turned to Ash.
"Ash, I know you're hungry, but don't you want to watch a battle?" Arven asks as Sarah and Nemona raised their hands.
"Actually, that was me." Sarah said embarrassed.
"So did mine." Nemona said also embarrassed as Harold chuckles.
"Seems like it's time for lunch. Not to worry, I can make some sandwiches and-" Harold didn't finish as the gang heard disgruntlement in the distance as Ash checked to see a crowd of angry people and Ash walked over there to find out the commotion.
"Hey what's going on?" Ash asked as a businessman turns to Ash.
"Some little gremlin is stealing our golden lockets left and right." the businessman said as Harold's head perked up.
"Gremlin you say, what did this particular gremlin look like?" Harold said catching everyone's attention.
"Well, let's see, it was a Gimmighoul and it was in its roaming form." the businessman said as Ash and Nemona got intrigued by this particular Pokemon.
"And tell me, was there anything intriguing about the Gimmighoul that stood out in appearance?" Harold asks once more as the businessman thinks and remembers.
"Well, that Gimmighoul has a coin on its back that looks fractured and has some tape over it that looks old and is about to fall off." The businessman says as Harold nods.
"Alright thank you." Harold said as the businessman nods and walks off as the gang got curious and Ash looks in his Dex.
Gimmighoul (Roaming form), the Coin Hunter Pokemon, Ghost type. It wanders around carrying an old coin on its back searching for more coins, it is said that these coins are especially rare.
"Sounds like this particular Gimmighoul is someone you know?" Nemona says as Harold nods.
"Yes, that particular Pokemon I knew long ago. Actually, me and your great Grandmother knew this Pokemon and considered them our best friend when we were younger." Harold says surprising the gang.
"You two knew this Pokemon!?" Nemona says as Harold nods.
"I think it's best that I explain my life story to you to get the better picture of this particular Gimmighoul. As you know, I knew your great grandmother long ago, she was like a sister in a way, always looking out for me and we went on many adventures together and we were just a simple duo until we met Gimmighoul."
71 years ago
We see 13-year-old Harold and a 14-year-old Chella playing out in the fields of Mesagoza which looked similar to what was seen in the modern day only with less technology and more old-time cars out on a post-rainy day. Young Harold appeared to be more nervous compared to his friend Chella who was braver and outgoing.
"Are you sure you want to be playing out here? It just rained and full of mud." Harold says worryingly as Chella laughed.
"C'mon Harold, didn't you say yourself you wanted to try new things?" Chella says as Harold nods, "Then give it a shot." Chella says laughing as Harold nods but before they could get going, they hear squirming noises.
"Gee, I know your worried, but I didn't think you would be that worried Harold."
"That's not me."
Both kids got confused until they looked to see a Gimmighoul was stuck in the mud and unable to get out, so the kids go to help the Gimmighul out and Gimmighoul looks grateful.
"Hey, they look pretty happy." Harold says but all of a sudden, the 3 hear a crack and Gimmighoul looks to see that their coin is cracked causing Gimmighoul and the two kids to panic. "Ahh, what do we do!? Gimmighoul's get really upset when their coin breaks!" Harold said scared as Chella thinks of plan A and grabs a similar large coin and presents it to Gimmighoul who shook their head.
Harold tries plan B and finds a similar Gimmighoul coin and tries to hand it to Gimmighoul but it refuses.
"Did we do something wrong?" Chella says as Harold looks in his bag to grab a book on 'Biology of Pokemon' and turns the pages until he reaches Gimmighoul.
"Ahh, here we are. When a Gimmighoul is born, they immediately find the first coin they find and refuse to let it go ever." Harold says as Chella thinks and she decides to look in her own bag and grab some tape and glue before she leans down to Gimmighoul.
"Gimmighoul, sweetie, can I take a look at that coin?" Chella says politely as Gimmighoul holds onto their coin tightly and looks away a bit worried, but Chella had a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, it will only take a minute. Pretty please?" Chella asks as Gimmighoul complied reluctantly and hand hands her the coin. She keeps the coin steady as she applies the glue onto the cracks and waits until it dries before she applies the tape and hands it to Gimmighoul.
"And here we are, it's not permanently fixed but it should be enough to keep the coin in check for a long while." Chella says as Gimmighoul's eyes sparkled with happiness and hopped around happily as Harold looked impressed.
"Wow, you really knew what to do back there." Harold says as Chella chuckles.
"It's just a simple task."
"But you make the simplest of tasks seem really cool like that paper volcano using Torkoal while Paldea's national anthem on top of a Mudsdale!" Harold says excitedly as Chella sweats nervously.
"That's not very simple."
"For most people, but you're special and kind of weird at the same time." Harold admits as Chella blushes lightly and lightly pushes him.
"Your weird."
"Your weird."
"Gimmi, Gimmi." Gimmighoul said joining in on the fun as they laugh it off. Since then, the 3 had many adventures from stopping school bullies, from climbing MT. Glaseado, to Gimmighoul helping officiate a wedding becoming the first Pokemon to officiate a human wedding, and Gimmighoul would even use their coin to bet on the outcome of a Pokemon match between Harold and Chella.
We see Harold and his Growlithe against Chella and her Vulpix on a battlefield with Gimmighoul in the middle.
"Alright Gimmighoul, I'm going to win this battle so heads!" "Grow!" Harold and Growlithe say as Chella smirks.
"Tails for me Gimmighoul!" "Vul!" Chella and Ninetails says as Gimmighoul threw their coin in the air and it landed on heads.
"Alright heads!" Harold says as he smirks and his eyes glow with a fiery aura though he would lose in the end. But to commemorate their friendship, Chella, Harold and Gimmighoul had a picture together to place onto Chella's locket to be remembered for a long time.
Everything was perfect for them. Until it wasn't.
"A Pokemon officiated a wedding?" Sarah says in disbelief as both Harold and Clavell nod.
"Yeah, an Alolan Raticate officiated my wedding by accident back then, the officiator was sick. I can still remember the humble hymns and dirges of the Alolan Raticates and Gumshooses during me and wife's slow dance under the Alolan Moon." Clavell says as Penny looks at Clavell with a deadpan expression.
"A Dirge is a song of the dead sir." Penny says as Clavell nods knowingly.
"Yes, I know, my wedding was next to a funeral. They couldn't change the schedule." Clavell says. As the Clavell and the others were having an unrelated conversation, Nemona and Ash look to Harold with intrigue over Harold's story. Nemona looked into her Great-Grandmother's locket to see the same exact photo albiet in black and white and looked surprised.
"Wow, I didn't realize you and Bisabuela (Great-Grandmother) had such a history together especially with Gimmighoul." Nemona said as Harold chuckled.
"Yes, those were the good days." Harold says as he had a bittersweet, melancholy look on his face which Ash picked up on.
"Judging by your expression however, I can tell this story has a sad twist." Ash says as Harold sighed and nodded.
"Yes, not everything was peachy. I think I've told you this in the past Nemona, but I once had a crush on Chella, and I began to realize that during the year with Gimmighoul and I kept working on being more confident while Gimmighoul wanted to be caught by Chella with a special Pokeball that was common at the time before modern day Pokeballs." Harold says as Ash got intrigued.
"Special Pokeball?" Ash says as Harold looks to Charcadet.
"Charcadet my boy, could you grab the 'special Pokeball' out of my 'special storage' area at my restaurant." Harold says as Charcadet nods and runs off. "But where was I, oh right. We both had our goals, and I prepared to confess my feelings, but it would be the last time I would ever see Chella for a long 'Mawile'." Harold joked.
70 years ago.
We see 14-year-old Harold with glasses as he took deep breathes in behind a tree with Gimmighoul holding a small box also appearing nervous as Growlithe encouraged his trainer.
"I know Growlithe, I know she sent me a letter asking me here at the park, but it just feels so nerve racking. Maybe today's the day, the day I tell Chella how I feel and maybe you'll get to be caught by Chella right Gimmighoul?" Harold says as Gimmighoul nods as both went to see Chella who was seen sitting on a bench. Chella appeared to be upset at something with her Vulpix trying to comfort her as Harold walks towards the bench with a confident look on his face.
"Hey Chella- what's wrong?" Harold said as his tone of voice changed upon seeing Chella's sad expression.
"Oh, Harold, Gimmighoul you've arrived." Chella says as Growlithe barked, "Oh sorry Growlithe, you too. Come here, sit." Chella insisted as Harold and Gimmighoul looked worried but sat down next to Chella as Harold wanted to know why his best friend was upset.
"Let me guess, Bradford is picking on you again. Don't worry, your noble fiery hero will stop him!" Harold says as Chella shook her head.
"No that's not-"
"Your brother pranking you? Have your Alcremie create cream onto his hands and have it land on his face." Harold suggested as Chella shook her head again.
"That's not-"
"You're trying to confess your feelings to someon-"
"I'm moving away." Chella says instantly causing Harold and Gimmighoul to stop in their tracks and look on with shock.
"What? Oh, you're just moving down the street or on the opposite side of Mesagoza. You had me worried there for a sec." Harold said as Chella didn't move.
"Cyllage City, Kalos." Chella says as Harold and Gimmighoul now appeared more alert.
"Wha-"
"My dad got a job offer in Cyllage City so he's moving the entire family to Cyllage. I didn't want this to happen. I'm sorry it had to be this way, I don't want to move, I want to be here with you two but it's-" Chella looked to be on the verge of a meltdown when she saw Harold and Gimmighoul's cold, dead stare as tears trickled down their face.
"Harold, Gimmighoul..." Chella said with concern as Harold closed his eyes and sighed.
"When are you leaving?" Harold asked as Chella looked surprised.
"In one month." Chella says as Harold opened his eyes with determination.
"...Then let's make the next month the best and make this the most memorable days of your life, Chella." Harold says as Chella's eyes sparkled with tears dripping down your face and proceeded to chuckle.
"You're one interesting boy and I'm glad you and Gimmighoul are my best friends. Let's have fun!" Chella says as she walks off and leaving Harold smiling bittersweetly.
"Best friend... Right." Harold says as they went off. Harold decided to help Chella earn her dream as a Champion-Ranked trainer and the 3 went on their month-long adventure for Chella to earn her Champion ranking by facing the Gyms and Harold impressing everyone with his Fire type Pokemon but Gimmighoul felt left behind but still kept going. Though Chella earned all Gym badges and faced the Top Champion, she wasn't able to defeat the Top Champion but to Chella, it didn't matter. She just wanted one last fun adventure with her two best friends. To her, the final reward didn't matter but it's everything else she wished for, memories.
It was around a week after Chella faced the Champion that she had to leave, on a bright, nice Spring Day and we see the 3 friends at a train station with Chella wearing a white dress and carrying a large suitcase while Harold and Gimmighoul looked on with sadness. Chella noticed this and softly smiled.
"What are you guys sad about? It's not like it's goodbye forever." Chella says with optimism with a hint of sadness as Harold sighs.
"I know, but you're going far away, and these letters take a long time and well, I've known you for so long that I just don't want things to end this way and- and-" Harold tried to finish but he was tearing up and couldn't finish as Chella hugged both Harold and Gimmighoul as she started to cry.
"Well if you're going to cry just it out already! I'm tired of putting up this facade, I don't want to see you in this pain any longer just let it out!" Chella yelled out crying as all 3 of them let out their tears flow. They stop crying before they broke apart and Harold and Gimmighoul breathed in and wanted to say something.
"Chella, before you leave. I- me and Gimmighoul wanted to confess something important. I-I lo-" Harold didn't finish as the train let's out their horn causing Chella to tilt her head.
"What were you going to say?" Chella says as Harold puts up a soft smile.
"Have fun in Kalos." Harold says as Chella smiles and nods as the train doors closed leaving Chella saddened. Chella walked towards her seat and placed her suitcase in storage and sits down as the train departs but not before hearing an Arcanine's bark and Chella looks out the window to see Harold on his Arcanine running towards the train.
"Harold!?" Chella said in shock.
"I'll never forget you, my best friend and let's stay that way. I don't care how long these letters take, let's always write about our adventures and let's have a battle when you get back ok!?" Harold yelled out as Chella tears up and nods.
"And I'll keep that promise!" Chella yells out as the train leaves leaving the two trainers separated as the train goes off in the distance as the two trainers let off their tears once more.
"Gimmighoul, are you still there?" Harold asks as he looks around for Gimmighoul but to no avail, but he does find Gimmighoul's present as Harold looks on worryingly, blaming himself for not to provide Gimmighoul's request towards Chella and although he searched long and hard, Harold never saw Gimmighoul for a long time.
11 years later.
During those 10 years, Harold went from being a delinquent to being recognized for both his sandwich making skills and his mastery over Fire type Pokemon to the point of being recognized by Paldea's top Champion at the time giving Harold the spot of Mesagoza's Gym Leader as the city's Fire specialist and youngest Gym Leader in the region at 16 and eventually at 18, he became the heir to his family's restaurant Harold's Círculo de llamas (Circle of Flames) and became good friends with everyone and forming connections he'll never forget.
However, he still kept in contact with Chella writing about his adventures and Chella writing about her adventures in return such as how she met a Futbol player while in Kalos and are going out which saddened Harold, but he remained optimistic and even said he would like to meet this guy one day. Fortunately, Harold would later meet the love of his life and had 6 children later on but what saddened Harold was that he still never found Gimmighoul despite all his efforts, but he decided to keep the present of Gimmighoul's safe and then came that one fateful day when he was 25.
We see him managing his gym which at the time was combined with his restaurant and things were peaceful with his gym trainers training until they heard the door open and the trainers marvel in awe over this person's beauty as she had bright tan skin that was as smooth as silk, a long white dress and a confident smile as Harold turns around with his eyes closed.
"Ah, welcome to Círculo de llamas. Are you here for lunch or are you here for a Gym-" Harold stopped in his tracks when he sees Chella now grown up and with a confident smirk. "Chella..." Harold said astonished as Chella chuckles.
"Are you still up for that battle you promised?" Chella said with confidence as Harold without any words nods (he would lose the battle).
Harold and Chella got to reconnect after so long with Chella revealing that she, her husband and their children are moving to Capo Poco and that she hear Harold got a gym in their hometown and a restaurant of Paldea's most popular food. Chella asks if they want to reconnect with one another and have their families be friends to which Harold agrees but he wants to find Gimmighoul to reconnect with them and both agree. They find Gimmighoul has been storing coins and lockets in search for Chella and teared up upon seeing Chella who immediately told Gimmighoul to return those lockets and once they did, the 3 were reunited once again after so long.
Once again, everything was perfect until it wasn't.
Ash looks intrigued over Harold being a former Gym Leader.
"I bet you were really strong for a Gym Leader!" Ash says as Harold chuckles.
"Oh, indeed I was, despite me being the technical first Gym Leader, I was considered so strong that people recommended me last over my monstrous strength. I wish I could have the strength to challenge you to a battle, but I've gotten old and my Arcanine is my only partner left still with me." Harold said with bittersweet nostalgia in his mind. As Nemona looked more saddened.
"And then I'm guessing, things were good up until Bisabuela passed away 6 years ago I imagine." Nemona says as Harold looked down and nodded.
"Yes, that day 6 years ago broke me as a person, but it didn't break someone more than Gimmighoul." Harold said.
6 years ago.
We see Harold walking sadly through the rainy streets of Mesagoza alone. It was around a week before that Chella passed away in her sleep from natural causes, this left Harold devastated over the loss of his best friend, but most heartbreaking is that Gimmighoul remained unaware of her passing.
'What am I going to tell that Gimmighoul?' Harold thought to himself as he went down the alleyway to find a small little house made of Gimmighoul coins as Harold sighed and knocked on it. Upon doing so, Gimmighoul pops out of the house happily as Harold puts up a slight smile.
"Hey Gimmighoul, you seem to be doing well." Harold says as Gimmighoul nods and grabs a bouquet of roses nearby seemingly prepared for something causing Harold to panic, "Listen Gimmighoul, there's something you need to know and that's-" Gimmighoul wasn't listening as they were preparing to meet with Chella.
"Look Gimmighoul, I know your excited to see Gimmighoul once again, but I think you should know that-" Harold was stopped by the now-suspicious Gimmighoul looking at him suspiciously.
"Gimmi." Gimmighoul said slightly irritated.
"Chella passed away." Harold said immediately causing Gimmighoul to look there shocked before Gimmighoul laughed it off thinking it was just some prank which Harold understood and got out a pamphlet to hand to Gimmighoul. Gimmighoul read it to learn of Chella's death and funeral date causing Gimmighoul to look at with a dead look on their face.
"Gimmighoul, I understand if your upset-" Harold didn't finish as Gimmighoul ran away causing Harold to be shocked, "Gimmighoul wait!" Harold yelled out but Gimmighoul disappeared causing Harold to be ashamed of himself.
"I never saw Gimmighoul again but I'm willing to assume that the lockets being taken are the result of Gimmighoul's doing." Harold assumes as the gang look saddened by Harold's backstory especially Dean who was letting out a waterfall full of tears alongside Squawkabilly and Chimchar.
"That's so sad." Dean says as Harold nods in agreement as Nemona looked surprised by all this.
"Gimmighoul really did love my Bisabuela that they wanted to be caught by her, oh Gimmighoul." Nemona says as Charcadet returns with the box and Harold grabs it and rubbing Charcadet's head.
"Thank you Charcadet, this is the secret I've been holding onto for a long 70 years, the Pokeball Gimmighoul wanted to be caught in." Harold says as he opens the box to show a wooden blue Pokeball with a wing-like design and gray metal parts that line the middle and the top which surprised everyone.
"What is that Pokeball?" Ash says as Harold remembers.
"That is a Jet Ball. Back before modern Pokeballs like Luxury, Quick, Friend, Moon Balls etc, many Pokeballs were made out of wood with the exception of the modern Pokeball, Ultra Ball and Great Ball as well as Apricorn Balls but these type of Pokeballs were made in the Sinnoh region and by that point were falling out of style and many were discontinued around the 60's and many are now kept as antics. I want you to have the Pokeball in remembrance of Chella, Nemona." Harold said as she grabbed the Pokeball and marveled at its design.
"Gimmighoul, they were so happy when Chella was around, all they want was just to be caught." Nemona says sadly as Nemona nods and stands up surprising everyone.
"Where are you going miss Nemona?" Clavell says.
"I'm going to find Gimmighoul, I want to lift them from their burdens to find peace." Nemona says with a determined look on her face.
"And how are we supposed to find Gimmighoul?" Arven says as Ash thought to himself about something.
"Harold, you mentioned that Gimmighoul was stealing lockets, right?" Ash says as Harold nods.
"Right." Harold said in response.
"What if the reason it was stealing lockets isn't out of greed, but Gimmighoul was just trying to find to find that specific locket of Chella so they can see her for one last time." Ash says as the others look on with agreement.
"That's a fair point, I guess they want closure and that's why they're stealing lockets." Harold says as an idea goes off in Nemona's head.
"Then I have an idea." Nemona says as the gang listen in on the plans. Nearby, we see TR at a nearby table listening in on the conversation with Jessie sceaming.
"Well, if Gimmighoul are known for taking coins, surely there's a stash of their coins somewhere for us to take and if we take those coins and sell them to the highest bidder, we'll be rich!" Jessie says with dollar marks in her eyes as she looks to James, Meowth and Wobbuffet who were crying causing Jessie to be confused.
"What are you crying at?" Jessie says.
"That story was so sad." James says crying.
"The bond between those 3 was something cute." Meowth says.
"Wobbu, Wobbu." Wobbuffet says in agreement as Jessie also cries.
"Ok, I agree that story was pretty sad." Jessie says also crying, they all cried for a minute before they wipe their tears away.
"So how do you suppose we find these stashes of coins?" Meowth says as James grabs his book and looks through the pages.
"Ah, here we are. Gimmighoul keep their stashes of coins in boxes, wedges or in abandoned buildings. But how are you going to specifically find this specific stash?" James says as Jessie smirks and grabs a coin out of her bag that resemble the coins used by Gimmighoul.
"I found it on our way here at the cafe and my Lechonk has sniffing skills that are second to none, right sweetie?" Jessie asks Lechonk who was eating breakfast who nods and sniffs the coin and picked up on a scent and immediately ran towards wherever she's going.
"Told ya." Jessie says as TR placed money on the table and followed Lechonk.
We see Gimmighoul wandering around the plaza and looking at tables for lockets until they see Nemona once again and Gimmighoul begins to hesitate until she places down her locket which provides Gimmighoul an opportunity to grab the locket. Gimmighoul runs off with the locket running down the hill and stairs of Mesagoza until they get down to an alleyway and was about to hide in their box until.
"Pikacu, Electro Web!" Ash yelled out as Pikachu launched their web to trap the Gimmighoul, Ash, Nemona, Harold, Clavell walk towards the Gimmighoul who looked frightened as Ash sighs. "Alright, I don't think Gimmighoul will go anywhere, cut it down Pikachu." Ash says as Pikachu nods and uses Iron Tail to cut the Electro Web letting Gimmighoul go as Nemona leaned down to show Gimmighoul the actual locket she had.
"The thing your holding is actually just papier-mache. But I'll give you this, you are certainly fast, you impress me." Nemona says as Gimmighoul looks away in shame as Harold sighs.
"I'm guessing that box right there is all the lockets you stole aren't they." Harold says as Gimmighoul looks away embarrassingly as Harold sighs, "You can't just go stealing these lockets from people, these lockets are memories to these people likely been with their families for a long time. I get it, I get you were upset over Chella's passing and I was too, but you can't go doing this sort of thing because without these lockets, there are no memories left for them." Harold says as Gimmighoul looks ashamed over their actions but still felt stubborn as Nemona sympathizes with Gimmighoul.
"I guess you just wanted to see my Bisabuela one last time don't you and I remind you of my Bisabuela right?" Nemona says as Gimmighoul nods, "While she has passed, it doesn't mean her memory has gone away and after hearing that story of you and Harold, I was wondering if you-" but before Nemona could finish, Gimmighoul senses something and ushers the gang into a nearby abandoned building to see shadowy figures stealing a rather large box causing Gimmighoul to panic.
"Gimmighoul what's wrong?" Nemona says as Clavell steps forward.
"I believe it's because Gimmighoul likes to store their coins here and that box likely contains their coins causing Gimmighoul's panic." Clavell says as Nemona grits her teeth.
"Alright, who's doing this!?" Nemona yells out as the shadowy figures come out of the shadows to reveal themselves as Team Rocket.
"Prepare for trouble and many debts." Jessie says.
"As we earn our riches through unbelievable heist movie methods." James says enthusiastically.
"Prepare for trouble if your prepared to pay for it."
"To unite all people within our- hey wait what are you doing!" James yells out as he sees Ash's Pikachu and Clavell's Electivire cut down the ropes TR were using from the box using Iron Tail and Brick Break respectfully as TR look on shocked.
"For once! Can we have a regular Team Rocket intro in this region!" Meowth says angrily as Jessie and James angrily grab their Pokeballs and sent out their Pokemon.
"You anger me, Team Rocket." Ash says as Harold stops him.
"Let me, I've been meaning to get some exercise." Harold says sending out Arcanine who looked older and much slower but still active enough to fight. Inspired by their courage, Gimmighoul decides to also fight alongside Harold and so did Nemona.
"I'm not letting an oldster fight by themself, so I'll fight too." Nemona says as Pawmo hops off her shoulder ready to fight as Harold looks on and sees a vision of Chella in Nemona's place with the same confident look causing Harold to have a tear drop down his eye and smile.
Your granddaughter has your energy Chella, energetic, friendly and battle loving. If you were still around, I'd imagine you would be happy. Harold thought to himself as TR start their attack.
"Alright Lechonk, Mud Shot against Pawmo!" Jessie yells out as Lechonk launches out a sludge of mud towards Pawmo.
"Dodge it and counter it with Arm Thrust!" Nemona yells out as Pawmo dodged the attack and launched an Arm Thrust at Lechonk sending her back.
"Alright Grafaiai, use Poison Jab against Arcanine and Klawf Rock Blast against that Gimmighoul!" James says as Grafaiai Poison Jabs James by accident and he comedically falls to the ground, "Against Arcanine." James clarifies as Grafaiai rushes towards Arcanine and Klawf launches rocks towards Gimmighoul. Gimmighoul hops away, avoiding the rocks before creating 4 Power Gems they launch at Klawf's legs causing Klawf to fall.
"Arcanine, use Agility to dodge!" Harold yelled out as Arcanine moved swiftly avoiding Grafaiai's Poison Jab and appearing behind Grafaiai, Grafaiai tried again to attack but Arcanine once again dodges with Agility avoiding the attack as Harold smirks.
"Now use Crunch" Harold says as Arcanine projects dark glowing jaws and hits Grafaiai sending him back towards TR as Nemona grabs her Tera Orb prepared to finish things, but Harold stops her. "Please allow me." Harold says as he grabs his Tera Orb and throws it towards Arcanine with all his strength as Arcanine transforms into his Fire Tera form.
"Now use Flare Blitz!" Harold says as Arcanine rushes towards the villainous team in a blazing rush attacking TR and sending them flying in the air. Clavell checkles as Ash looks curious.
"What's so funny?" Ash asks.
"Well, even if they had stolen those coins let's say 999 Gimmighoul coins, the coins aren't worth that much only for a 100 Pokedollars so by going by Tyme's lessons, 999 X 100 would only amount to 199,800 Pokedollars which wouldn't be enough to fund their empire." Clavell says as TR look shocked.
"Now you tell us!" Jessie, James and Meowth say as they disappear in the sky with a twinkle.
We see Nemona, Harold and the box full of lockets at Mesagoza's square plaza with the sun going down as Nemona and Harold stood in front of Gimmighoul while the gang were far away to let Nemona and Harold handle their business.
"That certainly was an interesting day. Now then Gimmighoul, I understand you wanted to see my locket, right?" Nemona asks as Gimmighoul nods but before Nemona could give it to them, she does look on with a stern look.
"However, you must promise me to never steal people's lockets again. Do I make myself clear?" Nemona says with a sinister undertone as Gimmighoul nods frightenedly. Nemona smiles and hands them the locket and they open it to see the photo taken so many years ago with Gimmighoul and a younger Harold and Chella appearing happy with an overview of Mesagoza.
Harold and Nemona look on impressed as Harold looks on fondly.
"I was certainly handsome back in the day haha." Harold said with some tears dripping down his face as Nemona also looked on surprised.
"So, I really do look like my Bisabuela right Gimmighoul? Gimmighoul?" Nemona said once more as Gimmighoul tears up before eventually crying.
"Gimmi, Gimmigoul." Gimmighoul they said through their tears remembering all the fun times with Chella and Harold and how they miss Chella deeply. It was around a couple minutes later as Gimmighoul wipes their tears away before closing it and handing it back to Nemona and walking off.
"Wait Gimmighoul!" Nemona yelled out as Gimmighoul stopped in their tracks and turned around still with tears dripping down their face, "I know that you may never see my Bisabuela again, but it doesn't you have to be alone. I wanted to ask if you want to join my team?" Nemona says as Gimmighoul and the others look surprised.
"I may not be my Bisabuela nor do I know what other things she did when she was my age, but I do know this, I want to grant your request to be caught not by her but by me so you don't have to feel alone and I'll take you to her grave so you can tell plenty of your stories, what do you say?" Nemona says holding the Jet Ball as Gimmighoul reminisces once more about Chella once more including their last conversation.
6 years prior.
We see Gimmighoul and an elderly Chella near the beachside around a month before her passing as they admire the beach view of Capo Poco.
"My Gimmighoul, isn't this beautiful?" Chella says as Gimmighoul nods, but they seem upset catching Chella's attention. "What's wrong dear?" Chella says as Gimmighoul draws up a picture of themselves with words 'I'm not growing old'. Chella realizes what Gimmighoul means and softly smiles.
"I get what you mean, you wanted to grow old alongside me and Harold but I'm guessing as a Ghost type, you can't really age, is that what I'm getting at?" Chella asks as Gimmighoul nods.
"I getcha but I'll also tell you this, I may not be around forever, but I won't be gone. I'll be staying beside you through the memories we've made along the way, I want you to take those memories and keep them with you for the rest of your life as a way to move forward. If my Great-Granddaughter becomes a trainer one day, you might like her, she was like me back then so I can see the two of you getting along, your both energetic, friendly and always look to the future. I know I may not be with you for much longer, but for today, let's enjoy the time we have left alright Gimmighoul?" Chella says as Gimmighoul tears up but nods and they both enjoy the beautiful day.
Gimmighoul starts to tear up once more before they went to the Jet Ball and Gimmighoul touched the middle allowing itself to be caught as the Jet Ball had a unique effect compared to modern Pokeballs as steam popped out of the ball and hopped before it twinkles signaling Gimmighoul's capture. Nemona, instead of gloating about her capture softly smile.
I promise to take good care of them Bisabuela, Harold. Nemona thought to themselves as she grabs the Pokeball to send out Gimmighoul who finishes up crying.
"Let's work together for now on alright Gimmighoul." Nemona says with determination as Gimmighoul nods, "Right, first order of business. We will return those lockets and I want you to apologize for your actions throughout the day do I make myself clear." Nemona said in a scary tone as Gimmighoul gulped and nodded.
"Well if you're going to return those lockets, I'll help too, right Charcadet?" Harold asks as Charcadet cheers his name happily as the rest of the gang arrive too.
"We'll help too." Ash says.
"I'll gather the people." Clavell says as Dean brought out a grill.
"I'll make the paninis." Dean says.
"That's a bit random considering the subject matter but I'll help the panini's too." Arven says as a crowd of people surround the group and Nemona, Harold and Gimmighoul help pass out the lockets as Gimmighoul looks back fondly on their adventures with Harold and Chella once more before reassuring themselves for their new future and to always never forget the past and look forward to the future.
END
And with that, another chapter is finished as we get a simple chapter and Nemona's next capture, Gimmighoul. I figured I might as well give one of the main characters a Gimmighoul as its evo Goldengo is a special Pokemon (the 1000th) and has a very positive personality that could fit on Ash's team but since I already planned out his team, I decided to give Gimmighoul to Nemona.
Some things to note is that with the Winter Semester of College coming, this story will be on break/or on a slow schedule once again to prepare for that so don't expect anything for a while.
The next chapter will revolve around Ash participating in a Fire type competition with Harold's Charcadet as Harold has fallen (literally and figuratively) ill and requests Ash's help in training with Charcadet. However, it seems like Harold's great-grandson also wants a shot at surpassing Ash through misguided efforts on training Fire types and wants Charcadet to not only go with him but also wants his Harold to recognize his skills. Will Ash, a surprise Fire type of Ash's and Charcadet be able to make it through?
*Gimmighoul (Genderless, Ghost, TT: Ghost, Ability: Run Away):
Moves: Astonish, Thief, Shadow Ball, Power Gem
Here's another character bio:
Harold Resplandor (Spanish for Blaze, Radiance, brilliance, resplendent)
Age: 84 (birthday: June 21st)
Home: Mesagoza, Paldea
Description: Born to a carpenter father and a clothes maker mother, he was often considered the shyest in his hometown despite his love for fiery Fire type Pokemon with the goal of becoming a Fire type trainer. He met his first friend Chella when he was being picked on by bigger kids and they became best friends ever since. Despite him never confessing to Chella, he never held a grudge against her husband and became good bingo players until his death 2 years before Chella's passing.
He met and married a real estate agent named Chrispa and had 7 kids (4 sons and 3 daughter, his 4th and 5th were twins and all ranged from 61 to 37) one of whom is 4th/5th Katy Resplandor who became the Gym Leader of Cortondo ironically not specializing in Bug types in fact, each of the children ended up specializing in a different type of Pokemon with the exception of his 1st child who was neutral and his 3rd child who was Fire based like Harold. He also has a lot of Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.
He had a 2nd son named Jeremy but passed away from a car accident at the age of 10 leaving Harold devastated and thus only having 6 children left alive and as a result, he fears for children getting hurt and doesn't want to lose anyone again. Jeremy was quite similar to Ash in personality so when Harold met Ash, Harold had a grandfatherly view over Ash and doesn't want Ash to get hurt on his future adventures.
He was once a Fire type Gym Leader having been recognized by the Top Champion for his skills at 16 but eventually retired from that role 40 years later at 56 but still focused on his sandwich restaurant.
He's a kind old man who is also very eccentric and wacky but means well and knows everyone within Mesagoza including Arven's, Nemona's and Penny's families. His only Pokemon left is Arcanine and his Charcadet isn't actually caught by Harold but instead stays around Harold to which more details will be revealed in the next chapter so stay tuned but until then, see ya next time.