Hello one and all to another chapter of Pokemon SVTA where today we have a two parter, Ash and his surprise Fire type Pokemon are participating in a 'Firestarter' (not a Fire Starter, a Firestarter) competition where a trainer and their Fire type participate to win to the top but when Harold is having serious medical issues and is unable to participate with Charcadet (who has problems controlling their flames), Ash decides to help Harold and Charcadet with Charcadet teaming up with Ash. Meanwhile, it seems there's a mysterious trainer who wants to be superior to Ash, Harold and all other Fire type trainers.
As of the Chapter's release, the Indigo Disk DLC has come out and while we're leagues away from reaching that point, I will incorporate elements from both DLC's into the story when the time comes. In fact, in this chapter, an Indigo Disk character will appear and two more will also show up in a couple of chapters once the gang hits the road, so stay tuned.
Main story
It was another beautiful day in the Paldea region with Ash waking up alongside his Pokemon with Ash admiring the view, Ash gets off of bed and stretches.
"Morning everyone, sleep well?" As asked his team who cheered their names loudly as Ash nods, "Great, let's have breakfast." Ash says but as he was walking, he hears the sound of crackling fire from outside as Ash opened his window to see various trainers and their Fire type Pokemon training.
"Magmortar use Flamethrower in the air and Chimchar, Burning Jealousy!" Dean said with enthusiasm as his Magmortar released a stream of fire from his hands waving it in a circle while Chimchar's body lights up and releases a heat wave from his body.
"Delphox, Magical Fire!" Sarah said to her Delphox as she launched her Magical Fire in the air and these stunning display of Fire type Pokemon and their moves which Ash marvels at.
"I wonder what's with the Fire type hype?" Ash says as a knock on his door was heard and he walked to it and opened it to show Nemona and Penny wearing Fire type related clothing with Penny wearing a bright red and orange T-shirt with her Flareon looking fired up and Sprigatito wearing socks resembling fire and shorts resembling fire. While Nemona's hair streak was red with a similar shirt that resembled Emboar's color scheme and shorts to Penny with her Pawmo wearing a fiery T-shirt and her Crocalor looking bored.
"Hey guys, what are you wearing?" Ash asked.
"We're wearing Fire type related clothing for the 'Firestarter Festival', think of it as part 2 to the Bonds and Memories festival." Nemona says as Ash got intrigued.
"Firestarter Festival?" Ash says.
"Think of it this way, it's a competition between trainers to use Fire type Pokemon and their skills. A user may have 1 or 2 Fire types with them and depending on that amount, it also determines the last round. There are 3 rounds, the first round is a cooking-based competition where you and your Fire Pokemon have to use their fire and heating skills to help make your food without burning it or at least making it as edible as possible. The second round is a target-based competition where you have to use your Fire type moves to hit a target from behind the line, those closer to the center get enough points to move on to the next round. The 3rd round is a heat competetion where your Pokemon needs to have the hottest flames and lastly is when two people manage to make it through, a special 4th round starts, a Pokemon battle." Penny says intriguing Ash as his eyes sparkle in intrigue.
"You had me at battling, when does it start?" Ash asks.
"It starts tomorrow, you better get to the registration, or you'll have to wait next year." Arven says walking by as the 3 other trainers looked at him suspiciously.
"You don't even have a Fire type with you." Nemona says shocking Arven.
"How dare you, my Fire types are right here." Arven says as he shows off his 'Fire type' Morada the Sneasel and Gogoat who were definitely not wearing ears that resembled Scorbunny and Litten respectively as Crocalor lightly breathed on their ears causing them to fall off leaving the two Pokemon and their trainer disappointed.
"At least let us have our moment." Arven says comedically depressed as the gang ultimately chuckled and laughed it off.
"Well, I'll catch up to you in a bit, I have to find a Fire type to use for the competition." Ash says as the gang nod and went off their separate way. Staraptor walks towards Ash ready to go back leaving Ash to think. "What Pokemon am I going to use for the competition? Charizard? Pignite? Torkoal? Talonflame? Infernap- now that I think about it, I never brought over a Pokemon from Alola over here and Incineroar hasn't battled yet ever since he evolved from Torracat, alright Incineroar it is. Ready Staraptor?" Ash asks as Staraptor nods and waves goodbye to his fellow mons before he returns to his Pokeball.
Ash placed the Pokeball onto a box holder that held Pokeballs and Ash entered Professor Kakui's number, the box displayed a phone as it was waiting for Kakui to answer and eventually, Kakui answered the 'phone' as he looked to be testing out Pokemon moves with his Empoleon against a Kommo'o on some sort of training stage with Kakui's son Lei watching from his crib.
"Alright Empoleon, use Wave Crash!" Kakui said as Empoleon nods and covers itself in a heavy watery veil as it launches itself at Kommo'o who prepares themself, "Alright Kommo'o, use Boomburst!" Kakui says as it launches a powerful soundwave that doesn't stop Empoleon and Kommo'o catches him before any real damage could be done and both Pokemon shake on it.
"So Empoleon's Aqua Jet could be stopped because of its lighter water veil allowing sound to enter but when it came to Wave Crash, the heavy veil of water helped protect it from the sound interesting, isn't that right Lei?" Kakui said happily as Lei said gibberish happily while Ash looks interested.
"I didn't know you had a Kommo'o." Ash says surprising Kakui but shrugged it off and went to Lei and picked him up before he went to the computer with a happy expression.
"Alola Ash, congratulations on your win at the Masters 8, to think you're not only the first Champion of my home region but also the world. Me, Lei, Burnet and the class are so happy for you!" Kakui says as Ash smiles warmly.
"Thanks." Ash says.
"I also hear your in Naranja Academy now, the classes over in Paldea are what I say are more experienced, are you handling it well?" Kakui asked as Ash nods, "Well that's good."
"From what Mr. Clavell told me, you were a student over at Manzana academy and Blueberry Academy?" Ash asks as Kakui nods.
"Ah, Clavell. I remember him, he gave a presentation at my class at one point prior to your arrival and prior to me being a teacher, I was indeed a student over at both academies. It seems they recognized my skills as a battler as I became a Champion-ranked trainer and one of many invited to Blueberry academy as an exchange student." Kakui said surprising Ash.
"You're a Champion-ranked trainer!? Can you tell me more about Blueberry?" Ash says surprised as Kakui nodded and chuckled.
Yes indeed, but I feel like I shouldn't ruin the surprise but why not a little, it's a battle academy specialized in Double Battles with its own Elite Four. I never managed to get through them, but I got a lot of battle experience and it's what influenced me to be a professor and then a teacher later on. It's also where the Champions Tournament is held every 2 years to test the strength of each academy's Champion-Ranked trainers although unfortunately, I didn't win but I'm sure you'll visit there one day. To answer your question; yes. Remember during our final battle when I was about to send out my final Pokemon?" Kakui asked.
"Yeah, then Tapu Koko knocked your Pokeball away and acted as your final Pokemon. Is Kommo'o your 6th Pokemon?" Ash asks as Kakui nods.
"Yep, Kommo'o is a strong one here." Kakui says as Kommo'o looked disappointed.
"Komo, Komo!" Kommo'o said disappointingly as Kakui and Empoleon pat Kommo'o on the back.
"Don't worry Kommo'o, if Ash ever wants to battle again with me, I'll be sure to send you out." Kakui said encouraging Kommo'o who nods before walking off, Kakui focues back on Ash. "So, what's happening?" Kakui asks.
"I was wondering if you could transfer over Incineroar? I realized Incineroar needs some battling experience ever since he evolved." Ash says as Kakui nods.
"Sure thing, be right back." Kakui said as he picked up Lei and went upstairs, a couple minutes later, he appears with Incineroar's Pokeball and places it on the transporter. "Here we are, Incineroar's been training with my Incineroar ever since you left so you might see that Incineroar has learned some moves that will leave you dazzled." Kakui says as Ash nods, and both prepare for the transfer as an arm pops out of Ash's box and sucks in the Pokeball and does the same for Kakui's side until both Pokeballs are transferred over. Ash and Kakui grab the Pokeballs until Ash remembered something.
"Whoops, I meant to send over Staraptor to Professor Oaks." Ash says as Kakui nods reassuringly.
"Understood, I'll send Staraptor over to Oak's in a little bit. I'll offer your Staraptor some food and company before I send him over." Kakui says as Ash nods.
"Thanks, Professor Kakui and Lei, I'll see you later."
"Take care Ash." Kakui said.
"Bah bah." Lei said as both trainers log off.
Ash looks to his Pokeball with determination and sends out Incineroar who looks pumped up and had his Stoutland headband on as Ash's Paldean Pokemon look on impressed.
"Ready for another adventure?" Ash said with determination as Incineroar fist bumped him.
"Roar." Incineroar said with similar determination.
"Then let's go."
We see Ash, Incineroar and Pikachu walk around Mesagoza which had various stalls of berries that contained various spices, people selling peppers and spices with food tasting stalls all about. We see the 3 eating what looks like spicy curry as Ash and Pikachu are huffing from the spicy food while Incineroar felt fine and even his fiery belt started to heat up.
"I don't know- how you Fire- types are able to this- sort of stuff." Ash says huffing as Incineroar smirks and shrugs but as they were walking, they heard noises from a nearby field. They walk over to see Harold, Arcanine and Charcadet training against a training dummy but it seems like Charcadet is having difficulties using his Fire moves.
"That's it Charcadet, hold in those flames and prepare a Flame Charge!" Harold said as Charcadet holds in his flames and tries to charge up with the flames and eventually is covered with fire but as Charcadet was rushing at the dummy, the flames went away causing the hit to be less impactful. This causes Charcadet to be upset but Harold pats him on the back.
"Don't worry Charcadet, you'll be able to use your flames eventually." Harold said encouragingly as Charcadet nodded with a determined look on his face.
"I see you 3 are determined." Ash says as Harold turns to them and smiles.
"That's exactly right young man, I maybe 84 but I'm stilled fired up and- oh my, is that an Incineroar?" Harold says.
"Yep, my Incineroar here." Ash says as Harold marvels at Incineroar.
"I hear they're very bulky, but I've never seen one until now. You don't mind if I feel their chest?" Harold asks as Ash, Pikachu and Incineroar were confused but nodded as Harold touched Incineroar's chest and nods. "I see, your Incineroar is full of fiery spirit. Your Incineroar went through a lot in his past but managed to grow strong and battle their biggest hurdle to get where he is now." Harold says surprising Ash, Pikachu and Incineroar.
"Wow, you're able to tell Incineroar's endeavors by touching his chest?" Ash says as Harold chuckles.
"Fire trainers are said to connect to a Fire Pokemon's endeavors if one's inner flames in their mind are strong enough for both and Pokemon. Your Incineroar has strong flames." Harold says still surprising the trainers.
"Wow." Ash says as Charcadet continues to train with the dummy but failing to produce any flames which caught Ash's attention, "Say, is there anything wrong with Charcadet?" Ash asks as Harold nods and sighs.
"Yeah, we're training for the Firestarter festival, but Charcadet can't seem to produce enough flames to fight because of damage to his Flame Sack. For 4 years, me and Charcadet have been participating in the Firestarter festival, but his flames can only get him so far to 3rd place." Harold says confusing Ash.
"Flame Sack?" Ash asked.
"Lots of Pokemon can learn Fire type moves but only Fire types are able to keep these flames up and even manipulate them because of a special organ in their body known as a Flame Sack. You see, Charcadet are normally hot to touch when they're battling at around 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (1000 degrees Celsius for those outside the U.S) but this poor boy got his Flame Sack damaged making him more warm than hot." Harold says.
"Damaged?" Ash asked.
"Yes, it was on the day I found him. Let me tell you a story sunny, Charcadet isn't actually my Pokemon but when he decided to stick around, he kind of changed my world after the loss of Chella, he reminds me of grandchildren and great-grandchildren in a way and it was when I decided to take him in."
5 years ago
We see Harold on the back of his Arcanine looking around the Vast Beyond, they decided to look around the Vast Beyond to clear their heads on the anniversary of Chella's death. It was a peaceful walk with Harold and Arcanine remembering the good times they had with their friend when Arcanine notices something in the distance.
"Hmm, what is it boy?" Harold says as Arcanine nudged towards a Charcadet battling 3 Zangoose who were picking on the Charcadet, Charcadet dodged and weaved attacking with Flame Charge knocking the first Zangoose out, but the 2nd Zangoose sucker punched him before he could do another Flame Charge. "Picking on a Pokemon 3 against 1 is unfar- wait." Harold said as Charcadet got back up with determination and charged up his flames in a fiery sense of determination and was prepared to launch a powerful Fire move but as Charcadet was about to launch that move, Zangoose took the opportunity to use Crush Claw against Charcadet's stomach causing Charcadet to be sent flying towards a pillar and his flames disappearing. This enrages Harold.
"Arcanine, do your thing." Harold said as Arcanine nodded and rushed towards the Zangoose, Arcanine's Intimidate activates against the 3 Zangoose causing the two Zangoose to run away but the leader Zangoose stays smirking and prepared to attack with Crush Claw. "Flamethrower." Harold said simply as Arcanine unleashed a powerful Flamethrower causing Zangoose to get scorched and terrified and ran away.
Harold got off of Arcanine and went over to the small Charcadet who was shaking, he grabbed a blanket to make sure his hands doesn't get burned touchng Charcadet but upon picking him up, Harold noticed that Charcadet was warmer and easier to pick up instead of blazing hot and hard to touch which Harold realized the implication.
"Oh, this is bad, Arcanine, we must hurry to Nurse Joy!" Harold says as Arcanine nods and Harold gets on Arcanine and they head off, Charcadet was fading in and out of consciousness as Harold notices and gives a soft, reassuring smile. "Don't worry Charcadet, we'll be at Nurse Joy's in no time, so rest for now." Harold says as Charcadet's fatigue was overtaking him and slipped out of consciousness.
A little while later at Nurse Joy's indoor Pokemon center, we see Harold waiting around at in the lounge waiting for Charcadet to feel better when the speakers came on calling for Harold. Harold stood up and walked towards Nurse Joy's desk as she and her Floette brought Charcadet out on a stretcher, but he appeared to be upset.
"We managed to restore Charcadet to full health but unfortunately, his Flame Sack was ruptured from that Crush Claw. He'll be unable to control his flames regularly and can't manipulate the flames in any way he wants to, and his body will be warmer than blazing hot." Nurse Joy says as Harold looks on shocked. Harold notices Charcadet's upset expression and felt bad as Harold picked up Charcadet who looked confused.
"Char, Char?" Charcadet asked in confusion as Harold softly smiled.
"I want to show you something young lad, it will help make you feel better. It won't help your flames, but it will help your heart heal." Harold said as the small fire Pokemon was confused. The two arrive to Harold's restaurant Ciculos de llamasn where Charcadet sat around for 5 minutes waiting patiently and curiously as Harold brought out a toasty sandwich containing alongside some chips.
"And here we are, sorry for the wait, at this age, my body is going to crumble one of these days but that won't stop me from making sandwiches. Go on, I made sure this sandwich was fitting for a Fire type to reignite your inner flames of determination." Harold said with a soft smile as Charcadet was confused but decided to take a bite out of the sandwich and upon taking a bite, Charcadet's eyes watered tasting the savory goodness and spiciness of the sandwich as Charcadet continued to eat it feeling happier as he finished the sandwich. Harold smiled towards the Pokemon and walked over to them.
"I know, this sandwich likely didn't reignite your actual flames, but I can tell by your eyes that you're reenergized with a sense of determination. It's going to take a long time to heal that Flame Sack but I'm willing to help you, you have the spirit of a warrior." Harold says in earnest as Charcadet's eyes widen in intrigue and nods. Since then, Charcadet has stayed with Harold training to repair his Flame Sack through trying to use its Fire moves again, and again, and again but it only seems that Charcadet could only spurt out little flames and his Flame Charges have their flames shorten and having not enough heat but even through all those 5 years, Harold cares for Charcadet as if he was Harold's grandchild or great-grandchild.
One day at Ciculos, a waiter was on their break and Harold was busy at the register, so Charcadet decided to help by bringing over the sandwiches and the customers adored Charcadet's honor and his cuteness and since he was popular with customers, Harold offered Charcadet to work alongside him as a member of the Ciculos team and officially a part of Harold's family which Charcadet happily accepted since then and continues on for the next 5 years up to the present day.
Present day
Ash, Pikachu and Incineroar looked on with awe over Harold and Charcadet's backstory and Ash looked to Charcadet who was determined to train and earn back his Fire skills which Ash admired.
"It sounds like Charcadet is determined to use their flames again, I like that about Charcadet, flames full of determination!" Ash says with energy in his voice as Charcadet looks on with determination and intrigue over Ash and Harold nods in agreement. Upon hearing this, Incineroar walks over to Charcadet and charges up his flames as Incineroar hits the dummy with a powerful Flame Charge sending it far back as both Ash and Harold look on with intrigue while Charcadet looks on astonished as Incineroar turns to Charcadet and leans down.
"Roar, Roar, Inci? (I can help you if you're ready?)" Incineroar asks the small Fire Child Pokemon whose eyes sparkle with excitement and nods as Harold picks up on their interaction and softly smiles as Ash also gets what's going on.
"Incineroar, you want to help Charcadet?" Ash asks as Incineroar nods and Ash looked surprised but smiles, "Alright, let's do it." Ash says as both Charcadet and Incineroar nods as Harold looked genuinely surprised over Ash's kindness and agreement to help Charcadet.
"You want to help an oldster like me and Charcadet, c'mon, you don't have to. I mean, what if we end up being opponents in the match?" Harold said as Ash still kept his determined expression on his face.
"Then it would be well worth it because it shows Charcadet's improvement over his fire and a new sense of purpose if you and Charcadet win." Ash says as Harold looked on surprised but smiled.
That boy, he's only been here a month and he's already made an impression on me. He has Encen's fiery spirit for Fire types but with an understanding towards Fire types unlike him, Encen though. Harold thought to himself as he shook his head and nodded.
"Alright we accept your training." Harold said as Ash nodded and both of their Pokemon face the dummy. Incineroar looks to Charcadet and ushers him to charge his flames up like Incineroar did and Charcadet nods and tries focusing, his flames from his body start to rise up and his skin starts to heat up before Charcadet is shown with a light fiery veil although not to the point of Incineroar's but more of a light veil as Ash looks in his Dex.
"Flame Body, his moves are Flame Charge, Ember, Clear Smog and Astonish so I take it Charcadet is trying to use Flame Charge?" Ash says as Harold nods.
"Correct, when Charcadet tries to use Flame Charge, his body is covered with a light veil of flames but when other Fire types use this move, their veil is brighter, covers the entire body and is more pronounced rather than the veil being clear." Harold says as Incineroar nods to Charcadet to attack as Charcadet nods and rushes to attack the dummy which did slightly more damage than before as Incineroar looked impressed and so did their trainers.
"That was a more powerful Flame Charge than before, we're certainly getting aren't we bud?" Harold says as Charcadet nods happily. Incineroar lightly smiles before Incineroar creates a huge ball of fire from his fiery belt and hits it creating a star symbol for Fire Blast and hitting it at the dummy sending it back and impressing Charcadet. Incineroar looks to Charcadet who nods and holds out their hands creating a small fireball before launching it at the dummy to little effect.
"Charcadet's Ember is smaller than most other Pokemon who're able to use Ember. Ember may not be a strong move but to most Fire types starting out, it helps them achieve some sort of power early on and those who master Ember can master other Fire moves but it seems for Charcadet, their injury has caused them to create more smaller attacks." Harold informed Ash as Charcadet looks down sadly.
"Roar!" Incineroar said getting Charcadet's attention, Incineroar ushered Charcadet to charge his flames again but holding their arms out again, Charcadet did so and created the small Ember, but Charcadet held it on patiently and charged his own flames until the Ember got slightly bigger surprising Incineroar and their trainers as Charcadet launched the Ember once more, but this time sent the dummy flying a bit.
"Alright, that's the spirit!" Ash said as Charcadet nods happily, "I see what's going on now, since Charcadet has his Flame Sack hurt in some way, maybe you're trying to encourage Charcadet to charge up his usable flames to power up the moves as a way to boost their power am I right Incineroar?" Ash asked as Incineroar nods and Harold smiled softly.
"Guess there's one more push of power then Charcadet can try to use their moves again, let's try it one more time!" Harold said with enthusiasm as Charcadet nods but unbeknownst to everyone, Harold started to breath more heavily at a worryingly rate as Charcadet charges up his flames once more as they appear a bit hotter, and the veil started to show redder in the flames. Charcadet held out his arms once more and created another Ember but much larger impressing everyone.
"Alright, that's the spirit Charcadet, just a little more and we can get you ready to go!" Ash says encouragingly as the Ember all of a sudden started to swirl around and as Charcadet was about to launch the flame, Harold smiles.
"Kee-p Go-ing Charcadet." Harold breathed out before he fell to the ground alerting Ash and Pikachu.
"HAROLD!" Ash yelled out causing Incineroar and Charcadet to look on with worry as Charcadet ended his Ember and went to his friend in worry.
"Char, Char!" Charcadet said in worry with tears down his eyes as Ash asked his Rotom phone to dial for help while Ash wasn't sure what to do as Incineroar looked around ushering people for help in a panic as a couple of people came by to help the group. Amongst the group however, there was a boy with spiky red hair and a cold look on his face seemingly with regret and sadness but having a hidden sense of anger underneath as some ambulances arrived.
We see Ash, Pikachu and Charcadet at a nearby hospital waiting in the lounge area for any new information as Ash looked worried, he's seen people and Pokemon at a hospital before but not to a level this serious as Ash looked panicked and worried.
"Pika, Pika?" Pikachu asked his trainer in worry as Ash snapped out of this state and looked to Pikachu.
"Sorry bud, I just got distracted there. It's just, we've been here at a hospital before but not to something like this and to be honest, I feel scared about it. I know he'll be ok; I hope." Ash says worryingly as Pikachu nods and looks to Charcadet who had his hand over his knees and rocked back and forth worryingly as Pikachu pat his back out of comfort. It was then that the front door opened to reveal a couple of familiar faces and one new one as Ash sees Katy and Alonzo from Cortondo alongside a boy with light red hair and glasses and a Litleo by his side also in a worry.
"Ash, I came by as soon as I could when I heard the news. How's my dad!" Katy said out of desperation as Ash shook his head.
"I'm not sure at the moment, I'm currently waiting to see how he is, but I hope he's alright." Ash says as Katy walks over to Ash and hugs him.
"Thank you for looking out for my pa." Katy said as she gave a slight kiss on the cheek causing Ash to blush slightly but nods.
"Just doing my best to keep everyone safe." Ash says as a male nurse comes out of the to see the group as they stood there patiently.
"Are you Harold's family?" the nurse asks.
"Yes, and Ash here is with us as a visitor." Katy says as the nurse nods and ushers the group to follow him to a nearby room where we see Harold casually chatting with his Arcanine. Katy got overwhelmed with emotion and started to tear up a bit, "Father!" Katy said rushing over to her father's side as Harold lightly chuckled.
"Hey there sweetbug, did you grow taller again?" Harold asks curiously as Katy wipes her tears away.
"Dad I'm 47, I can't grow again." Katy says lightly laughing as Ash appeared surprised over Katy's age despite her young appearance but shook it off as Harold notices the other visitors.
"Alonzo, Stevenson, Ash and Pikachu, you're here too." Harold says as Ash softly smiles and takes off his hat out of respect.
"Think of it as a Champion's visit in a way." Ash said as Harold laughs.
"You have the heart of a true trainer my boy. Isn't your brother around here Stevenson, I thought he would be out of boarding school by now?" Harold said as Stevenson sighed a bit angrily and shook his head.
"Probably off just training his Fire types wrongly again and being a delinquent as always, damn bra-" Stevenson was stopped by Harold's glare.
"Now Stevenson!" Harold said firmly but was stopped by the sight of Charcadet shyly looking behind the door out of worry and put up a soft smile, "Charcadet, everything is alright." Harold said holding out his arms as Charcadet ran over and hugged Harold tightly.
"There, there, Harold's alright and ready to go!" Harold says as Katy shook her head.
"Don't try it dad! This episode happened last month and so once again, you're staying in that bed until further notice." Katy said sternly as Harold and Charcadet put their heads down in disappointment.
"Well, I guess there's always next year Charcadet." Harold said with disappointment in his voice before facing Ash, "Well Ash, I wish you good luck in that competition, the competition both festival and opponent wise are second to none, so don't let up and let the flames guide your path." Harold said as Ash nods before Harold looks to Charcadet and could tell that Charcadet still has spirit and nods.
"Wait Ash! I have an even better idea, how about you enter the competition with Charcadet!" Harold suggested surprising everyone.
"You want me to work alongside Charcadet, but he doesn't have his flames back." Ash says as Harold chuckles.
"That maybe the case but don't forget, we were training Charcadet and your Incineroar's fire skills are second to none and I can sense your inner flames and they're full of determination. What do you say?" Harold says as Ash looks to Charcadet and could tell his fiery spirit was ready to go and Ash nods.
"I accept." Ash says as Charcadet's eyes sparkle in excitement and Harold smiles and nods.
"Then get out there and do your best." Harold says as Ash and Charcadet nod.
"Right, where is registration?" Ash says as Stevenson stepped forward.
"Don't worry, I'll show him." Stevenson said as both individuals and their Pokemon walked out of the room and out of the hospital as Katy looks to her father with curiosity.
"It's great that Ash wants to help you with your goal but what did you see in Ash to trust him?" Katy asked as Harold had a look of determination on his face.
"His unrelenting fiery spirit, nothing can keep him down even during the toughest of moments which is why I knew Ash was the perfect fit to train Charcadet. Even if inner flames surround him, one path of flames will open up to him and Charcadet to allow them to reach their goals in sight." Harold said with spirit i his voice and face before he gives a soft smile, "And so he can win that bonus backscratcher." Harold said as Katy and Alonzo stared at him with a deadpan expression.
We see Ash and Stevenson walking down the streets of Mesagoza with their Pokemon with many people walking by having Fire type Pokemon by their side prepared for the Firestarter festival as Charcadet was fired up.
"Thanks again for helping my grandpa, he really did want to enter the Firestarter Festival with Arcanine and Charcadet but, it seems like life has other plans for him." Stevenson said a bit sadly as Ash picked up on his emotions.
"Has this happened before?" Ash says as Stevenson nodded.
"Yeah, my great gramps is 84 and well, he's just reaching that 'point', illness, forgetfulness, injuries from falling down, my gramps told me he's expecting this and knows what will happen, but he acts like it's not a big deal to him. So now I'm worried about him, trying to take care of him and trying to keep my brother out of trouble." Stevenson said sounding stressed as Ash looks on in worry.
"Harold always seemed enthusiastic when I arrived to Paldea, he's both kind and energetic for his age." Ash says as Stevenson nods.
"Yeah, that's pretty much him. No matter if you felt sad or alone, he would be by your side cheering you up while also encouraging you along the way." Stevenson said smiling as Ash was curious.
"I do hope he feels better soon, what did you mean by taking care of him and your brother though?" Ash asked as Stevenson sighed but softly smiles.
"Well, I trust ya so please don't say this to anyone. Me and my brother Encen were raised by our gramps Harold for a long time, also grandma Crispa but she passed away around 8 years ago, our mother passed away from an illness when I was 12 and my brother was 8 and our father was never really around to begin with and our grandpa Arder, Harold's son was overseas owning a business, so we were raised by our great gramps. My brother has a love of Fire type Pokemon and wanted to be like our grandpa back when he was a Gym Leader but he was bullied for appearing 'scrawny' and 'weak' and so he began to train himself and his Pokemon but it seems like that bullying took him down the wrong path and his training was more tiring to the Fire type Pokemon but it somehow got what Encen wanted, strength by beating the bullies and not just their Pokemon, them too." Stevenson said as Ash was shocked, he remembers such trainers and their training methods such as Paul but never to this extreme of beating up the bullies.
"That sounds crazy." Ash says as Stevenson nodded.
"Agreed, Encen quickly became the terror of the town and gramps was disappointed to say the least. He sent him to a boarding school in connection to Naranja academy in hopes that he would calm down and maybe improve on himself but according to some staff, it seems like even he rules the school like a king where even the teachers are afraid of him. I lost my mother, my father was never around and now my gramps is having these medical issues, I don't want to lose another person in my life if they go down this route." Stevenson said as Ash looked to Stevenson and patted him on the shoulder with a reassuring smile.
"You won't, I guarantee it. I'm sure you can reach out to your brother in some way and I'm sure your grandpa will feel better." Ash says cheering up Stevenson.
"Thanks Ash. You know, grandpa told me something interesting."
"What's that Stevenson?"
"You remind him of his late son." Stevenson says as Ash got curious.
"His late son?"
"Gramps has 7 children but his 3rd child and his 2nd son Jeremy had a similar personality with you being energetic, friendly with Pokemon and wanting to see the world. However, he unfortunately passed while on his way to Naranja from a car accident. If you ever head to the school's plantorium while at school, you may find a large flowerbed dedicated to him." Stevenson said as Ash looked sad.
"I'll remember that flowerbed. Though, I'm not really a-" Ash didn't finish as Stevenson stepped in.
"He knows, he knows that you're not Jeremy or a replacement but your own person. But gramps does view you like a grandson of his that has a similar spirit to Jeremy but with your own twist on things."
Ash smiles and nods, "Thanks."
"You know, while I never knew my great-uncle, you do remind me of my cousin Crispin. He has a similar fiery energy to you and would be excited to meet you, he's at Blueberry Academy in the Unova region right now but trust me, he would battle you instantly." Jeremy said slightly laughing as both trainers laugh it off and get a move on. Meanwhile, the same boy with spiky hair from earlier watches from a distance.
We see the two trainers make it to the festival which contained various stalls, food and games all around as Ash and Stevenson looked on and marveled at the scenery before walking up to the front desk lady where she finishes talking to a disguised Team Rocket and their 'Magmortar' as they walk away, and Ash walks up to the desk.
"Ah hello, are you here to participate in the Firestarter competition?" the lady says as Ash nods as the lady smiles, "Excellent, conveniently, you are our last challenger to enter so please sign your name here and the one or two Fire types you'll be entering with." the cheerful lady says as Ash nods and looks to Charcadet and his Pokeball containing Incineroar.
"Ready Charcadet? Incineroar?" Ash asks as Charcadet nods along with Incineroar's Pokeball and Ash grabs a pen prepared to write his name down on the paper noticing some familiar names along with their Pokemon along the way.
"Excellent, please arrive here by 8:30 AM tomorrow for preparations and we can get started on the competition at 9:00." the cheerful lady says as Ash nods and looks to Charcadet and leans down to his level.
"In it to win it Charcadet?" Ash asks as Charcadet nods.
"Char, Charcadet!" Charcadet says enthusiastically as Ash smiles brightly.
"Then let's do our best!" Ash says as Charcadet nods.
"You can do it!" Stevenson says as both hear a 'tskk' somewhere and look around to see the spiky hair boy again as Stevenson seemed to recognize him.
"You think just because of your enthusiasm, you'll win? Your Incineroar is strong, but Charcadet would do better under me compared to you." the spiky hair boy said rudely as Ash looked to the boy who had a scowl on his face and fanged teeth with a Paldean Tauros by his side that had red accents and twisted tails as Ash scanned the Tauros.
Tauros (Paldean form, Blaze Breed), the Wild Bull Pokemon, a Fighting/Fire type. Its horns are noted to get so hot, that those gored by it will be both wounded and burned.
"Edgy. I take it your Encen then?" Ash asks with slight irritation as Encen smirked.
"In the flesh." Encen said as Stevenson got angry.
"Encen! Where have you been for the past couple of hours!? You were supposed to call us when you got back home, honestly you-"
"You talk too much." Encen said as Ash got angry.
"What's your problem and don't you know your grandpa is at the hospital right now!" Ash says angrily as Encen scoffed.
"What's the point, gramps doesn't love me. He loves everyone but me even though I want to follow in his footsteps as Fire type trainer, he refused to acknowledge me and abandoned me." Encen said with a hint of sadness as Stevenson looked with sympathy but still was adamant.
"He does love you, you mean everything to Grandpa, and it pained him when he sent you to boarding school but the way you've been treating your Fire type Pokemon is unacceptable and borderline abuse and the way you've been dealing with bullies isn't the way to go!" Stevenson pleaded as Encen scoffed.
"You telling me to accept being pushed around?" Encen said as Stevenson shook his head.
"Don't get it twisted, I'm telling you to back down, stand up for yourself and report it but the way you've hurt them has almost sent them to the hospital. I'm not sympathizing them let me make that clear, but violence isn't the way to go!" Stevenson pleaded once more but Encen didn't care and looked to Charcadet.
"Yo, small runt, how would you like it if you joined my team. I promise you; you can get stronger under me." Encen said with hidden malice in his voice as he held out his hand, but Charcadet smacked it away and ran behind Ash as Encen glared at the Champion.
"Champion or not, I'll beat you down in this competition tomorrow and make you suffer. I'll show that old geezer what I'm made of, and he'll acknowledge me in no time." Encen said as he walked away.
"Encen wait-" Stevenson was interrupted by Encen's Tauros glaring at Stevenson causing him to step back, Stevenson sighed and looked worried as he turned to Ash. "I'm so sorry for my brother's behavior, he was really a sweet kid with a love of Pokemon but those bullies-" Stevenson didn't have the courage to finish as Ash gave an understanding nod.
"I get ya. Don't worry, I'll try to change his mind during the battle, and we'll do it together, right Charcadet! Charcadet?" Ash says as Charcadet went missing from the group.
We see Charcadet back at the grassy field where he trained with Harold as he looks to the training dummy more angrily, he envisioned the dummy resembling Encen and his Tauros and how intimidating they are and didn't want to fight them but when Encen was saying bad things about Harold, Charcadet stood in place adamantly prepared to fight. Charcadet rushed at the dummy charging his flames to prepare a Flame Charge and strikes the dummy with all his strength, Charcadet does the same thing ad rushed at it multiple times getting faster with each Flame Charge.
Charcadet then attacked with Astonish before charging up an Ember. Thinking about the Ember he attempted to create earlier, he breathed in and charged his flames creating the large Ember from before but had visions of Harold in pain which lowered the power of the Ember which got smaller and started to panic.
"Worried about Harold aren't you Charcadet?" a familiar voice was heard as Charcadet stops his flames and turns to see Ash, Pikachu and Incineroar all worried for Charcadet as he looked down at himself and nodded. Ash smiled and nodded.
"I get you, I'm worried about Harold as well, it's something that I never saw before with a person, and I'm left shocked, and I feel like I didn't do anything to help and now his grandson is ignoring how his gramps feels for himself. That's why I want to cheer him up alongside you, what do you say we work together to make things right?" Ash says as Charcadet looks to him with intrigue and excitement and nods. Ash smiles and holds out his hand as Charcadet shakes on it.
"Then let's continue our training! Pikachu, cheer us on!"
"Pika, Pika!" Pikachu said in agreement as Ash, Incineroar and Charcadet got to training. Unbeknownst to Ash however, Clavell and his Ceruledge were watching Ash and were intrigued by their training.
"He's exactly the type of student fit for the academy, right Ceruledge?" Clavell asked.
"Ceru!" Ceruledge said looking at its preevolution as Clavell took notice.
"Intrested in your pre-evo my good fellow. They seem to be training for the Firestarter competition, what do you say we give them a hand?" Clavell says as Ceruledge nods.
The next day.
We see a crowd of people sitting in their chairs in a stadium and we also see throughout Mesagoza, people watching the event on tv's, the radio and Harold and Stvenson were watching from the hospital. Ash is seen talking to Raifort who was holding Pikachu in her arms and Clavell.
"Thank you Ms. Raifort for watching Pikachu for me, if Pikachu was a fire type, he could've joined but unfortunately, rules are rules." Ash says as Raifort nods.
"Not a problem, plus, I got someone cute to talk to about my creepy adventure stories of my past." Raifort said with a positive smile that radiated creepiness frightening Pikachu before Ash nods and turns to Clavell.
"And thank you Clavell for that training yesterday, it's going to really help me out." Ash says as Clavell nods.
"Not a problem, this competition is not going to be easy but consider our training to be like a homework assignment, as long as you know what you're doing, you should do well so go out there and take on the world." Clavell says with enthusiasm as Ash nods and gets onto the stage and meets up with his Pokemon as a platform rises to show a commentator alongside a Torchic.
"Guys, gals and non-binary pals, welcome to the main event, the Firestarter competition where those with the strongest Fire type Pokemon compete to take the gold in this thrilling event near the end of the year. I'm your host Jeremiah Simpson here today with my good friend Torch the Torchic and every year, we have a special guest representing the Fire type in nature. Coming from Paldea's sister school of Blueberry Academy and a member of the school's Elite Four and a Champion ranked trainer there, the fiery redhead who will make you satisfied with a delicious meal. Introducing Crispin Sparks!" Jeremiah said catching Ash's attention.
An Elite Four and a Champion ranked trainer? Ash says as Crispin walks up the steps leading to Jeremiah's platform, Crispin is a boy around Ash's age wearing a chef's uniform with red and orange hair and a casual look on his face as he sat down next to Jeremiah alongside his Scovillain who walked up with him.
"Good morning to you all and good morning to you Jeremiah, how are the kids?" Crispin said sounding lightly raspy as Jeremiah nods.
"They're doing great, even though they're far away from college. So, Crispin, tell us a bit about yourself?" Jeremiah says as Crispin smirks.
"Gladly, I come from Virbank City in the Unova region though I was born in the fiery hot Lentimas Town, and I have family both in Unova and here in Paldea. I can see my aunt Katy, my scary cousin and competitor Encen and there's that guy who sells me those great donuts but on a serious note, I'm also here to see my gramps who was hurt yesterday so I hope I can finish this to see him." Crispin says as the crowd awws.
"I hope your gramps is ok, young man. Let's cheer things up, let's introduce our fired-up competitors for this year's competition." Jeremiah says as Crispin nods.
"On it Jeremy, first up, hailing from Levincia but with her hometown unknown and the daughter of the former chairman of the Paldea schools, known as the wicked witch of the east according to some individuals and one of the Champion ranked trainers of Uva Academy here for 'fun' according to her, give it up for Carmine Herschel-Tachibana and her Volcarona!" Crispin says as the crowd boos causing Carmine to stare with a deadpan expression as Jeremiah moves on to the next individual.
"Next also hailing from Levincia and another of Uva's Champions and Carmine's brother also here for 'fun'. He is a swift photographer with a love of sights and cute Pokemon, give it up for Kieran Herschel-Tachibana and his Tepig!" Jeremiah says as the crowd awws for him instead of Carmine causing Kieran to blush but Carmine to look at her brother with comedic anger.
"Next, she's the daughter of one of the richest folks in the world, her unrelenting courage and leadership as Student Council president has gotten her lot's fans. Give it up for Nemona Helena-Banderas and her Crocalor!" Crispin says as the crowd cheers for her but she looked on with a deadpan expression.
I'd rather not be referred to as only the daughter of one of the richest people, call me something cool for crying out loud! Nemona thought to herself.
"Next, she's a wiz at computers and has a love of Eevee, give it up for Penny Flores and her Flareon!" Jeremiah says as Penny hides behind one of the ovens that will be used for the competition away from the public eye, but her father Delav was in the crowd cheering his daughter on with her Sprigatito on Delav's lap also cheering on her trainer causing Penny to blush.
"A famous cook of Naranja academy and the son of famous professors, he's noted as one eye. Give it up for Arven Regalo and his rental Heatmor and Salazzle!" Crispin says as the crowd cheers as Arven looks to Heatmor and Salazzle.
"Let's do this you two!" Arven says as both Pokemon comedically scorch him, "I'll take that as a yes." Arven continued.
"Hailing from the town of Sprigging in the Kanto Region, that's the first I've heard of it. He's a famous bottle cap expert by day and bottle expert at night, here comes Jamie and his Magmortar and a rental Simisear!" Jeremiah says as Jamie appeared to be nervous and looked like James as he looked around to see a disguised Jessie and Lechonk looking at him with fury in her eyes.
I better win that trophy or I'm dead, hopefully you're holding up well in that suit Grafaiai and Meowth. James thought to himself as he then notices Clavell and starts to panic due to him being able to see through their guises but surprisingly, Clavell looked casual about it.
"You know what, it's not even worth it. They'll get exposed soon enough." Clavell said to himself as he continued to watch.
"Next is a boy with an angry personality and it's- oh no, the king of the Naranja boarding school, Encen and his Paldean Tauros and Typhlosion." Jeremiah says as the crowd was afraid to boo or give applause as Encen scowled at the crowd. Stevenson and Harold look on from the hospital and appeared worried especially Harold and Crispin also looked worried for his cousin but kept his cool.
"Sorry about my cousin folks, he wasn't always like this. But to lighten things up, we have our penultimate competitor. Hailing from the Kalos region and known as one of the strongest trainers of Naranja academy outside of a certain someone and one of the most skilled trainers. She trains with battle simulations and looks scary from the outside but is friendly on the inside we have Sarah Espoir and her Delphox and Talonflame!" Crispin says as the crowd cheers and Dean, Verde and Dux cheer her on.
"Lastly, we have the Champion ranked trainer of Naranja academy, a 3 time or rather 4-time ranked Champion of the-"
"Ash Ketchum is here! I'm not forgetting you later you know!" Crispin says as the crowd goes wild and Ash comedically sighs as his Incineroar face palms and Charcadet appeared nervous especially with everyone in the crowd and Encen's intimidating appearance but Ash looked to him reassuringly.
"It will be alright Charcadet, I'm here by your side." Ash says as Charcadet lightened up and nodded.
"As you can see, the crowd is going wild with excitement as our competitors are ready to go as always and I guess delay and a sandwich shop owner told me once, let the flames guide your way." Jeremiah says as the competition starts.
And with that, we'll end things here. I was originally going to make this one part, but I decided since I don't know when I'll be back and I'm extremely busy, I figured I might as well split this into two parts, so you'll have something to read while I'm working on the next part. This first part is more about description and exposition, but the next part will be the competition itself, so I hope you'll stay tuned!