Hello one and all to a new chapter of Pokemon SVTA and with Penny's 2nd Team Star base dealt with and the mysterious Cassiopeia introduced, the gang continue their journey towards Oresville for Ash's first Elite Four battle with Poppy but when they arrive, they find the town overrun by criminals and after scaring them away, the gang along with Poppy and Rika agree to defend the town from these criminals and why they show up but what they might find might change the tides of the situation.
After a year, we almost reach Ash's first Elite Four battle in the Champions Bout and this will be an interesting battle for me to write, what will happen and who will come out on top is something you'll have to wait and see in the next chapter.
Cover Story 55: Guzma, Team Skull and the Lonely Kid 1
Guzma, the big man, the leader of Team Skull. He acts as the top don of Ulaula Island. Guzma once trained under Hala and was friends with Kukui but ran off because wasn't satisfied with his teacher and his lessons and feeling alone and weak in the world, he decided to form Team Skull and use Bug types because he empathizes with them about being called weak and decided to show others that Bugs aren't weak. After his loss against Ash, he wanted to disband his team, but they still follow him, and he decided to keep going with this new encouragement from his group.
Despite his supposed hatred of Ash and Kukui, he now respects them somewhat with him praising Ash and Kakui's strength and deciding he'll respect them but still try to defeat them one day. Still, a thought lingered in his head over his battle with Lana and brutalizing her Primarina with Golisopod's Poison Jabs, was he starting to feel regret for what he done. He didn't care about anyone but her being sad plagued his mind and started to feel conflicted.
One day, Plumeria comes in with the mail, but he also mentions a kid knocked out outside their base apparently starving. Curious, he walks outside the base with it raining and notices the kid and his Rockruff bruised. He didn't want to care about the kid but there was a lingering feeling in his stomach that he didn't want the kid hurt and relented taking him into their Pokemon Center which was more run down and contained a more delinquent, Team Skull dressed Nurse Joy and her Scrafty as she healed the kid and his Rockruff and Guzman gave him some food.
Guzma asks the kids why he's here and the kid mentioned getting away from someone and ending up here. Guzma tells him after this to go home but the boy and the Rockruff looked frightened and scared not wanting to go and see his mother home which concerned Guzma as he knows that sort of look before, that fear, he remembers he was abused by his father and that was the catalyst for running off, he remembers those 'golf clubs' but shakes off those memories to focus on the kid who didn't want to go home to whoever was waiting for him.
Guzma sighed and allowed the kid to stay for a couple days despite his reluctance. He tells Zipp, Tuff and Rapp to go play with the kid and to not hurt him or else which the 3 agree to. Plumeria waits outside surprised towards Guzma's kindness, but he denies it saying that it was just wanting him out of his hair later, but Plumeria can see through him and Guzma could tell Plumeria had a soft spot for the kid, but Plumeria denies it before walking off. Guzma remembered that Plumeria mentioning a deceased little brother but decides not to question her for now.
Later that night, Guzma was sleeping when the door opens to reveal the kid and Rockruff being too scared to sleep due to the fake skeleton of a Salamence in the guest room, Guzma teases him saying that he's stronger than that but taking pity, he decides to tell a kid a story. There was this lonely kid who started at the bottom faced with troubles and decided to go somewhere else by heading to the stairs, there was turbulence on the stairs but it's through there he gains allies who want to help him to the top but there was some trouble facing him, demons but before Guzma could continue, the kid falls asleep on his bed and Guzma had a genuine smile for once which surprised him. Was he starting to have paternal instincts, did he want to care for the kid?
He tries to brush it off, but it wasn't working but he says that it's only for a couple of days and then he can get rid of the kid but was there something that Guzma doesn't want to admit, that he might be caring for the kid like he was Guzma's son?
TBC
Main Story
It was another day in the Paldea Region, and the gang seem to be getting pumped towards their future endeavors with Nemona's next Gym Battle just a couple days away, Arven searching for clues on the next Titan, Penny having dealt with their 2nd Team Star base and resolving and reconciling Mela and Hassel and for Ash? He was training through the morning with Pikachu and Tinkatink as the rest of his Pokemon also trained for his first Elite Four battle and things were getting fired up.
"Alright, let's test out your reflexes. Tinkatink, Rock Tomb multiple times! Pikachu, watch carefully." Ash says as both Pokemon nod as Tinkatink created white rocky energy which formed into a rock, and she launched several rocks towards Pikachu whose tail glowed into a metallic hue and watching carefully, he jumped in the air and broke the Rock Tombs with his tail at a quick rate as Ash nods. "Now that's the spirit you two! Let's focus up close and personal, Tinkatink use Metal Claw! Pikachu, Iron Tail!" Ash says as Tinkatink and Pikachu nod and rush towards each other with Tinkatink using her rattle to clash with Pikachu's metallicized tail multiple times.
The gang watched on from the sidelines impressed towards Ash's training but remaining cautiously optimistic towards the battle ahead.
"Ash really does seem hyped for his battle but still focused for that battle, I wish I had that level of confidence." Nemona says as Penny and Arven nodded.
"Indeed, his Pokemon seem to get strong everyday especially Tinkatink, she seems to be using her rattle more effectively compared to when she first started." Arven says.
"They say Tinkatink's rattle is like another part of them, another soul and if both the Tinkatink's and Rattle's spirits are aligned, they say they can achieve stronger power or something similar." Penny says as the training continued on as Tinkatink charged up her rattled prepared for a powerful attack as Ash noticed and nodded.
"Use Rock Smash!" Ash says as Tinkatink nodded and prepared to strike at Pikachu with Rock Smash as she prepared to throw her rattle in the air but when she was about to, the rattle only went a bit in the air and landed on Tinkaton's left foot causing her to hold her foot in pain and Ash and Pikachu to be worried. "Tinkatink!" Ash says as Tinkatink looked down at her rattle angrily and started to bicker leaving Nemona confused.
"Is she, arguing with her rattle?" Nemona asks as Penny nods.
"Yep. As I said, the rattle is like another soul, a best friend even that grows up with them when they hatch but as they grow ready for evolution, they also have some let's say 'creative differences' that separates the two and makes them argue sometimes. Being aligned with one another doesn't come easy so it could likely be that Tinkatink could be evolving soon under the right circumstances but might change the way they battle." Penny says as Ash goes to the Metalsmith Pokemon with a band-aid.
"There, there, it will be alright." Ash said comforting Tinkatink who nodded and hugged Ash who hugged back. "I think that's enough training for now-" Ash was stopped by Tinkatink.
"Tink, Tink!" Tinkatink says trying to assure Ash she's fine.
"You sure? I don't want you feeling hurt over your injury." Ash says as Tinkatink nods as Ash smiles. "Alright, we can continue." Ash says as Tinkatink smiles and hops down looking at her hammer with concern hoping things go well. Ash turns to the group with a question of his own.
"So, what's this Poppy like and what should I expect out of her?" Ash asks as the gang look to each other and nodded.
"Well, we don't want to spoil it but she's a Steel type specialist whose battling soul is as hard as iron." Penny says as the other 2 nod.
"Indeed, her Pokemon balances both defense and offense in one package." Nemona says as Ash and Tinkatink take interest.
"Tinka, Tinka!" Tinkatink says as Ash smiles.
"I guess this Poppy individual really caught your interest huh Tinkatink?" Ash asks as Tinkatink nods happily. Before they could continue, Tinkatink heard a noise in the distance that the others pick up on too.
"Ton! Tinkaton!" said a voice in the distance catching Tinkatink's attention as she ran after what the noise was catching Ash and the gang offguard as Pikachu followed her.
"Huh, Tinkatink, where are you going?" Ash says following her.
Tinkatink goes through some bushes until she sees a little girl in a gray dress with a Tinkaton training against a dummy with Rika watching from the sides encouraging them near the riverside. It appeared that Tinkaton was fighting the dummy without her huge hammer which was next to Tinkaton which made Tinkatink look on in interest and decided to copy her.
"Alright Tinkaton, use Brick Break!" the little girl says as Tinkaton's right fist glows and she karate chops the dummy multiple times as Tinkatink copied this with Rock Smash acting as the Brick Break. It seemed Rika noticed Tinkatink but decided not to say anything but smirked as the little girl continued.
"Tinkaton, use Play Rough!" the girl says as Tinkaton nods and rushes at the dummy with a pink aura surrounding her and strikes the dummy with a swift punch and Tinkatink did a similar thing but with Draining Kiss but tripped upon trying to attack as both the girl and Tinkaton smirked as Tinkaton grabbed her large hammer. "Now it's time to unweash our powah! use Gigaton Hammer!" the girl says as Tinkaton nods and she and her hammer glows and picks it up causing Tinkatink to be influenced and picked up her rattle to as it glows preparing to use Metal Claw as Tinkaton jumps into the air and slams her hammer onto the target smashing the dummy as Tinkatink mimicked her actions and slammed her rattle to the ground.
Tinkaton's glow disappears and lets her hammer rest as she stretches and Tinkatink looked amazed towards Tinkaton's skills. Rustling was heard through the bushes as Ash and the gang found Tinkatink and Ash looked relieved.
"Tinkatink, there you are, don't go running off like that." Ash informed her as Tinkatink nodded, the gang look up to see Rika much to the gang's surprise.
"Rika!" the 4 say as Rika smiles confidently.
"Told'ya I would make a cameo. How have you all been?" Rika says with a smile that makes Penny swoon.
"We've all been well, we're just on our way to Oresville towards Ash's first Elite Four battle and it seems he's ready for anything!" Nemona says as Ash nods before he noticed the Tinkaton and her large hammer as Tinkatink went to go talk to her and both seem to have a thrilling conversation with Tinkatink impressed with Tinkaton as Ash looked surprised.
"That's a huge hammer." Ash says surprised bringing out his Rotom Phone.
Tinkaton, the Hammer Pokemon, a Fairy/Steel type and the final evolved form of Tinkatink. Despite the huge size of their hammers, Tinkaton can carry it freely with no restrictions and carries whatever it finds back home.
"Aww, it's like your Tinkatink is a little sister to Tinkaton right P-" Rika didn't finish as the little girl ushered Rika to her size and she whispered causing Rika to smile. "Sorry, right Paprika?" Rika asked the girl who nods.
"Yep, my Tinkaton is simply amazing!" Paprika says as she turns to the group. "Are you heading to Oresville for something special mister?" Paprika asks as Ash nods and smirks.
"Yep, I'm heading to Oresville to meet Poppy for a special battle." Ash says as Paprika thinks to herself and nods.
"I know who she is, I can take you to her, the town isn't too far from here." Paprika says as Ash smiles and nods.
"That would be great, thank you." Ash says but before they could leave, he notices Tinkatink practicing with Tinkaton with their rattles, but Tinkatink is having issues aligning with her rattle causing anger as Tinkaton calms her down and talks to her and even Paprika notices this.
"So, your Tinkatink's going through rattle issues?" Paprika asks as Ash nods.
"Yeah, when I caught her, I helped her train how to fight with her rattle, but it seems she might have some issues using it recently and I worry it could affect how she fights something about her rattle being a part of her soul." Ash says as Paprika nods.
"I know how you feel, my Tinkaton went through that issue as a Tinkatink, she didn't know what to do at first but after some training as well as mastering a move, it helped her, and the rattle become one and the same and helped her evolve into Tinkatuff. So, if something similar happens with Tinkatink, I'm sure she will be one with her rattle soon!" Paprika asked encouraging Ash.
"What was that move?" Ash asked.
"Ice Hammer, she doesn't have the move anymore but by the time she evolved into Tinkaton she managed to become one with her hammer and mastered some moves. while being aligned with her hammer." Paprika says confusing Ash.
"Aligned? I think I get the idea. I'm surprised you know that stuff at a young age." Ash says comprehending it as Paprika twitches.
"Young age? How old do you think I am?" Paprika asks as Rika, Pikachu and the gang start to panic as Ash innocently answers.
"5?" Ash asks as an Orthworm pops out of Paprika's Pokeball and uses Iron Tail sending Ash comedically flying in the air as he scans it.
Orthworm, the Earthworm Pokemon, a Steel Type. This Pokemon lives in the deserts where it eats up soil to maintain it's metal body.
"9 years old." Paprika says leaving the gang sans Rika surprised.
"9!" Ash yells out as he disappears in the sky with a twinkle. Rika looked to Paprika and Orthworm disapprovingly as they both had their heads down.
"You'll apologize to Ash when he comes back down." Rika says sternly.
"Yes mam/Orthworm." both Paprika and Orthworm say.
We see Ash, Tinkatink and Paprika and her Tinkaton across from each other with Tinkaton placing her hammer next to her while Tinkatink stretches. The gang watches from the side with Pikachu on Penny's lap.
"Is Paprika that good at looking at a Pokemon's strengths and weaknesses." Nemona asks as Rika nods.
"Yep, don't let her age, size, 3rd person speaking, or childish demeanor fool you, she's one smart cookie and she and Tinkaton are curious as to how Tinkatink battles and how to improve if she wants to improve on both herself and to be one with her rattle." Rika says as the gang watch on in curiosity.
"Sowwy Paprika asked you to do this before we leave but Paprika was very curious as to how you and Tinkatink battle." Paprika says in the third person as Ash nods.
"Not a problem, it seems even Tinkatink is curious about Tinkaton as well, this could help in our training right Tinkatink?" Ash asks as Tinkatink nods.
"Tinka!" Tinkatink says as Paprika nods.
"Alright then, do your best Tinkatink!" Paprika encourages as the gang notices something off about Tinkaton.
"Hmm, Tinkaton's not using her giant hammer?" Nemona asks as Rika nods.
"Indeed, when in training, her Tinkaton prefers to using fists to practice before using the giant hammer. It helps make training much easier for her allies and allows her to test the skills of other members of the Tinkatink line." Rika says as Tinkaton made a taunt causing Tinkatink to be hyped up.
"Alright Tinkatink, let's start off simple with Metal Claw!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and rushes towards Tinkaton with her rattle glowing as Tinkaton stayed there patiently before Paprika calls out.
"Counter with Play Rough!" Paprika says.
"Stay focused!" Ash says as Tinkatink prepares to hit Tinkaton who uses her hands to deflect the attack with Tinkatink focusing on trying to hit Tinkaton to no avail as Ash had to think of another plan. "In the air Tinkatink!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and throws her rattle in the air and Tinkatink to jump high in the air prepared to grab her rattle but Paprika and Tinkaton weren't going to let her.
"Use Smack Down to knock the rattle away!" Paprika says as Tinkaton nods and creates a red rock that she prepares to launch the rock towards Tinkatink as Ash wasn't going to let that happen.
"No, you don't! Rock Tomb!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and launches a rock towards Tinkaton's Smack Down creating a puff of smoke as Tinkatink lands back down with her rattle as it glows.
"Look out Tinky!" Paprika says Tinkaton looks around as Ash smirks.
"Now Rock Smash!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and launches herself at Tinkaton attacking Tinkaton and sending her back by a margin, but Tinkaton still stays standing as the smoke clears and Paprika remained impressed with Ash and the gang does too.
"That was amazing Mr. Ash! Those movements and your strategies!" Paprika says as Ash chuckles.
"Well-" Ash didn't finish as Paprika continued.
"Hang on now, there is a flaw in your strategy. Tinkatink's strategy of throwing the rattle in the air to charge your attacks is clever but opponents will find an opportunity to knock it away and leave Tinkatink wide open for attacks. If you want to have a better advantage on taking on others, you have to balance that by keeping your momentum, making quick strikes before you prepare for your powerful attack and if you want to use that strategy, make sure your quick and have an opening to strike." Paprika suggested as both Ash and Tinkatink look to each other in surprise and both nod.
"I think I get ya, just be careful of how Tinkatink uses her rattle and make sure it doesn't get knocked away." Ash says as Paprika nods as Rika steps in.
"Well, there's a bit more to that. As Tinkatink grows and gets accustomed to her rattle, eventually things change including her rattle and Tinkatink may have to adapt to the newer if harder conditions upon 'growing' up." Rika says with a bit of ambiguity confusing Nemona, Arven and Penny.
"What do you mean by 'growing up'?" Nemona asks as Rika simply smiles.
"When the time comes, you'll see." Rika says.
"Well, that wasn't anonymous at all." Arven says as Paprika turns to Ash.
"Say Ash, is Tinkatink skilled in using no weapons to fight?" Paprika asks as Ash shook his head.
"Not really, we haven't tried it before." Ash says as Paprika nods.
"Well, there may be a scenario where Tinkatink might lose her weapon and have nothing else to use so it's best to practice for the future." Paprika suggested as Tinkatink turned to Ash and nodded as Ash nods too.
"Alright, let's give it a try, I'll look after your rattle." Ash says as Tinkatink gave Ash her rattle and prepared herself against her evolved form.
"Alright Tinkatink, use Metal Claw!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and her hands glow as she rushes towards Tinkaton.
"Tinky! Use Brick Break to counter her Metal Claw!" Paprika says as Tinkaton nods and her arms glow a red hue as she rushes towards Tinkatink clashing with her with Tinkaton being slightly stronger due to being fully evolved but that didn't stop Tinkatink from trying her best. Both continue to clash with one another trying to attack but to no avail until Ash sees an opportunity upon another clash seeing an open spot.
"Alright Tinkatink, push her back and use Rock Tomb!" Ash says as Tinkatink nodded and used her legs to push forward to push Tinkaton back before launching a rock towards the Metalsmith Pokemon.
"Catch it!" Paprika says as Tinkaton nods and catches the decently large rock. "You're going to have to try harder than that to break through my Tinkaton's defenses as Ash nods.
"Your wish is my command, Rock Smash!" Ash says surprising both Paprika and Tinkaton as Tinkatink confidently rushes towards Tinkaton who tries to throw away the rock but wasn't fast enough as Tinkatink throws a hard punch glowing with red aura punching the rock and Tinkaton sending her back leaving the gang impressed especially Rika.
"That's Ash for ya, he's able to turn the tides of battle by coming up with a strategy like that, he's our Champion for a reason." Nemona says impressed as Rika nodded.
I knew Ash would prove himself, Geeta certainly knew what she was doing in scouting him to join Naranja. But will he hold up in his first official battle? Rika thought to herself as she sees Tinkatink glowing in a pink aura which caught everyone's attention.
That pink glow, is it ready to learn a new move? Ash thought to himself as Tinkatink prepared her attack as Ash shrugged it off.
"Alright Tinkatink, use Rock Smash!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and rushes towards Tinkaton but before she could attack, a loud scream was heard.
"AHHHHHH!" a voice was heard stopping the fight catching everyone's attention.
"What was that?" Nemona asks as Ash looks towards a town in the distance.
"It came from that town over there, I'll go check it out. C'mon, Pikachu, Tinkatink!" Ash says running out as Arven sighed loudly.
"Don't just run off on your own! It's dangerous!" Arven says running after him as everyone nodded and followed them as TR popped out of the bushes with Jessie scheming about something while James, his Grafaiai, Meowth and Wobbuffet looked concerned.
"Did you see Tinkatink and Tinkaton's hammers? So much metal that can be worth a fortune!" Jessie says as Meowth and James appeared annoyed.
"When are you going to stop your obsession for earthly materials, it's like our new goal in this Region. First Glimmora, then Gimmighoul's coins, the Tera Crystals and now Tinkatink's metal. You have one strange obsession!" James says as Jessie looked to him sternly.
"Says your obsession of bottlecaps wherever we go." Jessie says striking a chord with James and Grafaiai.
"Well, you didn't have to go that far." James says.
"Ai Ai." Grafaiai says agreeing with his trainer.
We see Ash and his Pokemon walking through the empty desert town, it resembled a town out of the wild west with saloons, old style buildings and more as Ash and his mons explored wondering what that noise was.
"Now then, I wonder who screamed in this direction? It sounded like there were multiple people crying for help. Maybe it was a party?" Ash says as Pikachu shrugs but as he was walking, 4 Pokemon, Electabuzz, Scizor, Weavile and Skarmory drop down from the roofs along with 5 men and a 6th man walked out with some sort of hat and holding bubble guns but it didn't seem to faze Ash as he was more confused.
"Bubble guns? really?" Ash says as the grunts looked to each other in agreement.
"Well, we're not that evil." one grunt says as the one in the hat stepped forward.
"No matter, you stepped into town and so let us show you the 'party' with everyone else." the hat guy says.
"Why are you trying to hurt this town?" Ash asks.
"It's best you don't know, now come along brat." the hat guy says sternly as one of the grunts stepped forward in concern.
"Wait boss Chapeau, I think I recognize this kid, I don't think we should be messing with him." the grunt says as the man scoffs.
"He's just some kid, I'm sure if we act all nice to the kid, he'll join everyone else in the panicking corner. So, let's give a warm introduction, shall we?" Chapeau says as his gang nods as Ash overheard them and smiles confidently. "Hey kid, the name's Chapeau and I'm what you call a leader of my gang, the Steel Marauders." Chapeau said in a more positive tone as Ash remained calm.
"Well, I guess I should also introduce myself. My name is Ash, and this here is Pikachu and Tinkatink. Tinkatink, care to give Mr. Chap his gift?" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and the gang and Chapeau look to Tinkatink fondly.
"Aww, look at you. You're so cute, you remind me of my daught-" Chapeau couldn't finish as Tinkatink used Rock Smash on Chapeau's right foot causing him to yell out in pain as Pikachu jumps off Ash's shoulder charging his electricity.
"Pikachu Thunderbolt!" Ash says as Pikachu nods.
"Pika Chu!" Pikachu says releasing a stream of electricity towards the Pokemon and the gang as they were comedically shocked, and they run away except for Chapeau and a random grunt.
"That's the boy I was talking about, the Champion himself sir!" the grunt says as Chapeau's eyes widen in shock.
"Well why didn't you say anything, let's get out of here and regroup with a plan!" Chapeau says as the grunt facepalms and even spells out some swears before running away but just as they were running away. The sand started to spiral in the ground and some of the grunts well into holes made by Nemona's Pawmo.
"Sand Tomb." a deep female voice was heard as Ash looked to see Rika telling her Flygon to use Sand Tomb which involved the sand swirling into the ground as Chapeau gritted his teeth and sent out an Orthworm which absorbed the Sand Tomb thanks to it's Earth Eater Ability absorbing the Ground move and allowing Chapeau and some grunts to escape.
"Onward Orthworm and use Sandstorm to obscure us!" Chapeau says as Orthworm releases a stream of sand from his armholes covering the area with a huge amount of sand that blocked everyone's views as Penny tsks.
"This sand, what a pain. Vaporeon, come on out and use Rain Dance!" Penny says throwing her Pokeball releasing her Vaporeon who summons clouds that rain upon the town clearing away the Sandstorm only to see that the grunts got away but could be seen in the distance heading towards some large shack.
"Get back here!" Ash says as Rika holds onto his shoulder.
"We shouldn't rush in without a plan, we'll figure something out." Rika says as the rain clouds disappear, and the town's residents were coming out to see the commotion.
"Is it over?" one male resident says.
"It looks like it." a female resident says as a boy points over to Ash's group.
"I think those guys just saved us." the boy says as the citizens began cheering and coming out of the buildings to celebrate the success of driving away the grunts as a man in his 30's and a top hat and black goatee walks out alongside his Pincurchin on his hat.
"Are you the brave heroes who drove away the Steel Marauders?" the top hat guy says as the gang look to each other and nod.
"We are." Rika says as the top hat guy smiles.
"Well then, though they may come back, let it be known that these 6 individuals helped save our town from the Steel Marauders and we shall hold a feast for these 6 in the name of Oresville and I the mayor, Kappe!" the mayor says as the town cheers on while the gang look on appreciated but unsure.
We see the gang at a restaurant pub of sorts where the residents celebrated the gang's brief victory against the Marauders, and we see them at some sort of office with the mayor sitting across from the 6.
"I hope the lunch that our chef made was to your liking." the mayor asks as the gang smile.
"It was delicious, that pasta hit the spot." Ash says as Paprika nods.
"And that ice cream was stylish and dewectable." Paprika says delighted as the others nod.
"I couldn't agree more." Penny, Nemona and Arven say delighted as well as Kappe nods.
"Well, that's good. Now it's time for serious business." Kappe says as the gang look at him seriously as the silence in the room was tense as he brought up, two top hats, one blue and one grey. "Which do you think is perfect on my Pincurchin? Blue or grey? I'm having a hard time choosing." Kappe says as the others had their mouths comedically agape as Penny sighed.
"The blue one." Penny says bluntly as Kappe puts on the hat on Pincurchin who's eyes displayed satisfaction.
"Ahh, thank you, it would've been a major crisis had I not chosen a hat." Kappe says.
"Well now that we got that major political world-ending crisis resolved, who are these marauders that keep come by?" Arven asks as Kappe's expression goes from goofy to serious.
"Oh right, well, it's a long story. Oresville has two things going for it, one, delicious food and two, ores and metal. This town in a hub for mining here and near the Canones Elevados due to the environment and caves including the illustrious Tera Cavern." Kappe says catching the gang's attention.
"Tera Cavern?" Ash, Nemona, Arven and Penny asks as Kappe nods.
"Yep, I'll be happy to share info with you if you help us." Kappe asks.
"Help?" Ash asks as Kappe nods.
"You see, with stuff like metal, gold and crystals, it was bound to attract some attention mostly because of our old western style of architecture but also the criminals that might steal it but while we deal with the smaller of criminals, it's hard to deal with the bigger of criminals case in point, the Steel Marauders. A group of thieves that try to steal our town's metals." Kappe says.
"I mean, if the town is known for its metals and it's not kept secret that they're open to the public, you kind of need bigger security to protect it." Nemona says as Kappe puts his head down in disappointment.
"I know but we have budget issues." Kappe says putting his head down confusing the gang.
A town full of metal and they don't have the budget for police!? the gang thought as Kappe recovers.
"But it doesn't help that I know of their leader." Kappe says catching the gang's attention again.
"You know him?" they ask as Kappe nods.
"Yes, the leader of the group is named Chapeau and he was an old friend of mine since childhood. A couple of years ago, he seemed like a happy fellow, he wasn't poor but didn't have enough money in life to go by but no matter what happened, his attitude was always cheerful especially to his wife and beloved daughter but around 6 months ago, his wife passed from an illness and I haven't initially heard from him until 3 months ago when he showed up leading a gang and every month, he comes by to take our metal and though we try to fight, he and his marauders outnumber us and disappears in a flash." Kappe says.
"And so, in order to stop them, you want us to find the Marauders and put a stop to them and get your metal back so your town will be at peace?" Nemona asks as Kappe nods, "The question is, where do we find them?" Nemona asks as Kappe thinks.
"Well, that's the problem. They always disappear via using Sandstorm and it takes a couple of minutes for it to disappear so that-"
"They're at that shack over there." Rika intervenes pointing over to the distance at a building in the distance as Kappe brings out binoculars to see a nicely built shack with some grunts in the distance.
"Your right, I see most of them over there. Well, let's go-"
"Hold on there skippo, we got to make sure they aren't doing anything fishy with traps and whatever." Rika says as she sends out Krookodile.
"Krookodile." Krookodile says confidently as Rika hands her a camera.
"Could you go survey the shack over in the distance and take pictures to see if there's any traps we have to deal with? Use Dig to avoid detection and retreat if anything goes wrong." Rika asks as Krookodile nods and heads out of the room to survey the shack.
15 minutes later
We see Krookodile return handing the camera to her trainer as Rika pats her.
"Thank you Krookodile, get some rest." Rika says returning Krookodile to her Pokeball as the gang look to the camera to see pictures of spikes, pitfalls and tough Pokemon as Rika nods. "I figured as much though the shack is nicely built." Rika compliments as Kappe nods.
"Chapeau is skilled when it comes to construction, he could help the town or something. No matter, it's going to be tough going in there without getting defeated." Kappe says as Paprika notices something next to the trash can and picks it up to see a recruitment poster and gets an idea.
"I have an idea, what if we go in there disguised?" Paprika asks as the gang look to her and the posters that show recruitment towards the Steel Marauders.
"Recruitment posters for the Marauders, so they both steal the town's resources but also recruit them? How dumb are they?" Penny says with bluntness in her voice.
"Very, but it could work under the right circumstances we just need disguises, the right people to go in and a good excuse." Kappe says as Paprika suggests something again.
"What if we go in as interns, the poster says they'll allow for interns, curious folk and more, me, Ash and whoever else can come in and investigate while you guys try to lure the guards away and we'll have ourselves an easy win." Paprika says surprising the group.
"For a plan that's plainly simple and said by a 9-year-old, I could see some potential in that plan." Penny says as the others nod in agreement as Paprika turns to Ash.
"Say Ash, you don't mind if we put that search for Poppy on a hold for now?" Paprika says as Ash nods.
"Of course, I'm sure she isn't far." Ash says as Paprika smiles.
"Good... actually, let's put this whole investigation to a close because you're looking right at her!" Paprika says as Ash, Pikachu and Tinkatink look on shocked towards the 'reveal' as the others snickered.
"I knew all along." Nemona says.
"That was some good acting there Poppy." Rika says as Poppy confidently nods leaving Ash surprised.
"So not only are you 9, you're also the youngest Elite Fo-" Ash didn't finish as he was sent flying in the air by Orthworm's Headbutt as they came out of the ball sending him comedically through the roof and disappearing in the sky with a twinkle leaving the gang flabbergasted.
"I think he was more surprised more than he was criticizing you." Arven says as Poppy's eyes widen in realization as she felt an overwhelming sense of dread as Rika was behind her with a disappointed expression.
"Poppy." Rika says as Poppy tried to act innocent.
Later on, we see a woman with a blue beret, red dress, tan skin and a short brown bob cut measuring Ash, Poppy and Penny as Rika, Nemona and Arven watched from the sides waiting as Poppy hugged the woman calling her 'mama'.
"So, a lot of your outfits and those found at fancy clothing stores are from your wife who's also a home ec teacher at Uva?" Nemona asks as Rika nods.
"Yep, Romarin's a marvel, most beautiful and skillful woman around. It's why I married her." Rika says fondly as Romarin blushes.
"Oh stop, not during work." Romarin says happily.
"Romarin? Oh, I think she designed my late mother's Champion Cape at one point if her insignia of R. W. C. is any consideration." Nemona says as Rika nods.
"Yep, that's her." Rika says as Arven ponders on something.
"Poppy says that Romarin was her mother, does that mean your Poppy's mother too?" Arven asks as Rika fondly smiles.
"You could say that it's an interesting story if you want to hear about it while we wait?" Rika suggested as Nemona and Arven nods. "Well, let's see, it was 5 years ago, are you familiar with an Elite Four trainer named Acero?" Rika asks as Nemona's eyes sparkle in fondness.
"Yeah, she was a great trainer a long time ago, my mother told me stories that Acero was the final mountain she faced before facing against her final challenge to become Champion. I hear she passed however." Nemona says as Rika frowns.
"Yeah, it was a sad following day, she was the reason I became an Elite Four member in the first place. It was around that day that we weren't sure what to do and well, we were depressed and that was the day we met Poppy under unusual circumstances." Rika says as she tried to remember what happened that 5 years ago.
5 years ago
It was a rainy day at the Champion Headquarters, everyone in the building was working on your typical boring office jobs, trainers were practicing in the training rooms but there was a select group of people who were not in the mood today, them being the Elite Four or in this case, the Elite 3. The 4th Elite Four member Acero had recently passed away and being a beloved member of the group, it hit them hard.
We see Rika who had shorter hair back then alongside 2 other people being a middle-aged man with black hair and grey highlights named Larry who looked tired and Ribes who looked sad.
"Where's Hass? I thought he was going to be here today?" Ribes asks in a calm tone as Rika sighed.
"I think he had a class to teach though I wouldn't be surprised if he was upset like the rest of us." Rika says as the door opens to reveal a man drenched from the rain, that man is Hassel and he looked sad.
"Sorry I'm late, class went on a bit longer than expected." Hassel says as Ribes nodded as everyone was silent in the room unsure of what to say next until Ribes had the courage to speak up.
"Thank you all for coming, you didn't have to come if you wanted to-" Ribes says as he was interrupted by Hassel.
"No, it's alright, Acero was one of us and wouldn't want us to feel down, she was planning on retiring and wanted to find someone special to replace her and I wouldn't want that legacy to go to waste." Hassel says as Ribes nodded.
"Thank you. I know it's not easy right now, but I promise you, we'll make it through. Now onto-" Ribes didn't finish as a buzz was heard from Ribes's microphone as Ribes pressed the button. "This is Ribes speaking, what seems to be the problem?" Ribes asked.
"There seems to be a child right on the front doorstep, a woman leaving her there before running off." a woman's voice was heard concerning the group even the tired Larry.
"A person leaving their child by themselves for no reason, that's shameful. I'll go search for that parent." Larry says tiredly as he got up as Rika sighed.
"And I'll go talk to the kid." Rika says as the two Elite Four- err 3 members went out the door to the front lobby as Larry walked out the building and sent out a Staraptor which he got on and flew off as Rika smiled.
'For a guy who's tired and keeps working 24/7, he at least has a heart.' Rika thought to herself as she went to the little girl in question with next to her a Tinkatink as the young girl was shy and looked afraid to look up at Rika who softly smiled.
"Well hello there young miss, what might your name be?" Rika asks as the girl tries to spout out her words shyly.
"Poppy." Poppy says as Rika smiles and brings out a cookie.
"Well, hi Poppy, my name is Rika. Would you like a cookie while we wait?" Rika asks as Poppy's eyes sparkle in joy and nods as Rika hands her the cookie and they sit down and wait.
'Alright Rika, time for me to be a bit tactful, it could be a bit sensitive.' Rika thought to herself as Poppy enjoys the cookie.
"So, what brings you here today? Are you here to see the Champion?" Rika asks trying to sound enthusiastic but also concerned as Poppy shakes her head.
"No, mommy always says she has to go somewhere but never tells me where other than 'be a good girl' and leaves." Poppy says as Rika looked concerned for her but angry towards the mother but kept a smile to cheer her up.
"Well, I'm sure she'll come back, she should've came in, we have a daycare area." Rika says as Poppy shook her head.
"No, I don't think she likes me, she leaves me for the day at different locations for the day, but she always comes back seeming spwiteful towads me." Poppy says shocking Rika and saddening her.
'How can a parent do that to a child, that's just awful and the fact she knows those words at such a young age, it's just sad and makes me angry, where's that mom, I need to teach her responsibility.' Rika thought to herself but as she thought to herself angrily, she hears sniffles coming from Poppy causing Rika to snap out of her thoughts and focused her attention to the sad Poppy.
"Hey, it will be alright, I promise." Rika says as Poppy sniffles.
"Really?" Poppy asks as Rika nods. Suddenly, an idea comes to mind.
"Say, Poppy? Are you a fan of Pokemon?" Rika asks as Poppy's eyes sparkled and nodded.
"I love them! They're amazing, I like watching your battles on TV with mom. I want to be an Ewite Four one day." Poppy says happily as Rika smiles.
"Do you want to see where I battle and see my Pokemon?" Rika asks as Poppy nods. "Follow me." Rika says holding onto Poppy's hand and they head to a battlefield within a room as Rika presses some buttons to change the plain battlefield into a rockier terrain.
"Wow." Poppy says as Rika nods.
"Yep." Rika says as she grabs her six Pokeballs. "Alright you 6, we have a little guest here so please make her feel welcomed." Rika says throwing out her Pokeballs in the air releasing a Krookodile, Dugtrio, Flygon, Gallade, Clodsire and Donphan who cheer their names happily and Poppy looked impressed with them.
"Wow! They're so cwool!" Poppy says as Rika nods, Poppy spends the whole day admiring Rika's work before she and her Tinkatink fall asleep with Tinkatink returning to Poppy's Pokeball and Rika picking her up as she waited for Hassel to return. She sees Hassel returning on his Dragonite but his face only expressed disappointment.
"What happened?" Rika asks as Hassel shakes his head.
"She got away, no matter where I looked, on foot, asking around, no luck. What kind of mother would do this to their child?" Hassel says appearing angry as Rika agrees as Larry and Ribes appear in the lobby to join Hassel and Rika.
"Judging by your look, you had no luck?" Larry says as Hassel nods. "Well, what are we going to do about tonight? I'm unable to take her in due to work." Larry says.
"You need a break." Rika says.
"My place is getting renovations." Hassel says.
"My family's settling into their new home." Ribes says as Rika looked to Poppy and had a look of determination.
"I'll take her in, I got a nice, spacious home from my acting roles and model shoots, my girlfriend is a school teacher so she knows a lot about taking care of kids and I've been a babysitter a lot, I'll take care of her because I don't want to see her alone." Rika says as the others smile. The next day, Poppy and Tinkatink smells of French toast (or I guess Kalosian Toast) and walks down the hall to the kitchen to see Rika making breakfast.
"Ms. Rika?" Poppy says as Rika turns to Poppy with a smile.
"Good morning Poppy, would you like some breakfast?" Rika says as she places the Kalosian Toast down on the table as Poppy reminisces on the food, she's usually got always in lower quality but this time it felt different. The food felt like there was warmth, effort and love. Poppy poured the syrup and ate the food; the food was filled with care and warmth to the point she teared up worrying Rika.
"Poppy, are you ok?" Rika says as Poppy nods through the tears.
"It's just- you put in so much love into it, my mommy hasn't, and I-I-I-" Poppy couldn't finish as Rika hugs her softly.
"It's ok, let it out." Rika says as she pats Poppy's back. No words were exchanged but a bond started to form between the 2. Over the next 4 months, Rika continued to watch Poppy while still looking for signs of wear Poppy's mother would be to no avail. One day on Rika's birthday, everyone was celebrating but Poppy had a gift she wanted to give to Rika but wanted to wait until after because she thought it was embarrassing. Poppy walked up to Rika holding a gift in her hand.
"Hey Poppy, sorry I didn't get a chance to talk to you. What'cha have there?" Rika asks as she opens the gift to reveal a 'Best Mom of the year gift' as Poppy blushed, "Poppy, I-"
"I know you're not my actual mom, but you've been taking care of me for so long and have been so kind and caring that I kind of started to think of you as my mother" Poppy says as she tears up. "And was scared you might hate me for it and I-I-I" Poppy didn't finish as Rika hugged her.
"I don't hate you, I never will. I'm happy you think that of me and wanted to say it. I may not be your mother, but I'll do my best to make sure your happy and grow up in a happy environment." Rika says as she lets Poppy cry on her shoulder with tears of joy.
"It was there that I decided that after I get married, me and Romarin would adopt Poppy as our daughter and Poppy's been happy ever since, growing up with us, going to elementary and soon enough, she'll join you guys in Naranja next year" Rika says as Poppy is enjoying her disguise and Rika smiled fondly at her and her wife Romarin. "My two angels." Rika says.
"And her biological mother?" Nemona asked as Rika shook her head and frowned.
"We never found her again, the only clues we could find were her house which was run down and crawling with Skwovet and Greedent and the only other thing I could find was a note and a picture of her and a younger Poppy happy at a beach with a note. 'If anyone is reading this letter, tell my daughter that I'm sorry I was a horrible mother and that I wish things could've been different just know that mommy loves you and take care'. We decided to close the case with the conclusion she ran off or 'escaped' due to how the letter was phrased." Rika says with the last part sounding more grim and down which Nemona and Arven picked up on and got the idea of 'escaped'.
"Suffering huh?" Arven says.
"We never told Poppy the truth as we didn't want to break her heart and I'll tell her if she feels ready with no hesitation, but it seems Poppy's happy now where she's at and I think that's what matters to me, to see her happy like the sun." Rika says watching Romarin finish up Ash, Penny and Poppy's disguises. "Well, we should get ready, I'll call La Primera about our plan and to send some officers over and I'll call the Steel Marauders and set up an 'appointment' and we'll be ready to go." Rika says as Nemona and Arven nod.
Meanwhile outside, Team Rocket overhears this, and Jessie was about to open her mouth but James and Meowth say it first.
"You don't need to say your plan about how to get rich, we'll do it." the two say as Jessie was comedically disappointed that she didn't get to say her plan.
A little while later, a disguised Ash, his Tinkatink, Penny, Poppy and even Rika is near the Steel Marauders base, Ash's Pikachu on the other hand was at nearby hut pouting that he couldn't come to avoid suspicion.
"I'm surprised you came along." Penny says as Rika nods.
"Of course, I didn't want any of you to get hurt because the more I thought about the plan, the more I thought about how they could see through your guise more quickly so I figured I could be the smooth talker and talk things out if things get Rockruff." Rika says with smoothness as Penny had hearts in her eyes. A buzzing was heard from Ash's earpiece.
"Testing, testing, you there Ash?" a female voice was heard.
"10-00 Geeta, all clear and ready to go." Ash says as Penny looked to him.
"Ash, a 10-00 means someone's down, it's 10-2 when your signal's correct and operating." Penny says as Ash remembers his mistake and Penny turns on her ear piece, "We're in our positions" Penny says.
"Ohhh, this is so exciting being on a stakeout." Geeta says with excitement.
"Get a hold of yourself La Primera, things might be rough." Rika says.
"Right sorry, from here on out, we'll be using our codenames. Ash, Tinkatink, you'll be Harvey and Roth. Rika, you'll be Penn. Poppy, you'll be Madsen and Penny, you'll be Secretary Quen." Geeta says as Penny had a vein on her head.
"Secretary?" Penny says but couldn't finish as some grunts walk towards them along with their leader Chapeau as he laughs hardly with heart.
"Well, well, do we have some chumps lost in the desert or are you picking a fight with us?" Chapeau says as Rik- I mean Penn walks forwards holding the poster.
"Actually, we called about the job opening, we're here to check this place out to see if it's to our liking. My name is Penn, former organized hitman of the Mirage Mafia and these here are my subordinates Harvey, Roth, Madsen and Secretary Quen." Penn says confidently with her movie acting skills up to the test as Chapeau remembers and laughs.
"Oh, that's right, I apologize for my ignorance. Come, I'll show you around." Chapeau turns to his gang, "Boys and girls, be on your best behavior for our new grunts here!" Chapeau says sternly as his grunts and Pokemon stand in place and salute.
"SIR!" all of them say but Poppy/Madsen gets the attention of Chapeau almost worryingly.
"Say, aren't you a bit young being here, it's not safe here." Chapeau says with a warmer fatherly sort of tone surprising everyone and panicking them as Madsen opens her mouth and Geeta speaks for her and Madsen mimics the mouth movements.
"Actually I'm 24, there are a lot of people out there who're short for various reasons." Madsen 'says' as Chapeau rubs his head.
"Your right, I apologize, follow me." Chapeau says as all 5 breathe a sigh of relief before they walk in.
His tone seemed fatherly of sorts, is there more than it seems with this guy? Ash thought to himself as they walk around seeing all the stolen steel and metal throughout this complex structure with grunts and Pokemon working on handling the steel and machinery.
Again, steel? Not gold, gems, anything just rare steel? Penny thought to herself with a deadpan look.
"Welcome to our nuestra casa my friends, here with the Steel Marauders, we steal steel, eh get it." Chapeau says as the sounds of Kricketots and Nymble chirp in silence as Chapeau laughs nervously to himself. "Heh, heh, heh. Anyway, we steal various steel in order to sell them to the highest bidder on the black market." Chapeau says as the 5 look on with blank looks on their faces.
Steel on the black market, really? all the 5 disguised trainers thought to themselves as Chapeau chuckled with pride.
"I can tell the look on your faces, what's steel going to do in the black market? Well." Chapeau then grabs a block of steel with his strength impressing the group as the block of steel then turns into a shade of black surprising the group.
"Wait that's-" Rika/Penn didn't finish as Chapeau smirks.
"That's right, it's acero oscurecido or darkened steel, the rarest metal out there. We spent a year over the globe searching for this metal for the black market for a high price and so that I can-" Chapeau stops and thinks seeming like he had something in mind but changed it, "To be the richest man in the world!" Chapeau says as the 5 were dumbfounded but even Ash caught on to that stopping of words and used a bit of aura to sense the man's emotions.
The way he said it sounds like he was gonna say it, his emotion sounded happy when he was about to say it but when he did, he had a frown before changing it back. What's going on? Ash/Harvey thought to himself as Rika also suspects something's up.
So that's his plan, a pretty dumb one but I think we heard what we needed to hear. I just needed a distraction. Rika thought to herself, "Scuse me Mr. Chapeau, is there a bathroom somewhere?" Rika/Penn asks as Chapeau nods.
"Yes, our bathroom's out of order for the moment but we have an outhouse outside." Chapeau says as Rika/Penn nods.
"Thank you so much." Rika/Penn says as she walks outside and texts Ash, Penny and Poppy.
'Go time.'
The remaining 4 nod and reveal their badges.
"Chapeau and the Steel Marauders, by orders of the Champion Geeta, you're all under arrest!" Ash says shocking Chapeau and his grunts who scatter to get away except for 2 who join Chapeau.
"And I trusted you! You'll pay for this, Revavroom, roll out!" Chapeau says throwing his Heavy Ball and sending out Revavroom as the two other grunts sent out Perrserker and Alolan Sandslash. Ash looked to Poppy and Penny who nod and sent out Tinkaton and Flareon while Tinkatink was prepared for battle.
"Tinkatink, use Rock Smash on Perrserker!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and launches herself towards Perrserker.
"Perrserker use Metal Claw!" the female grunt says as her Perrserker's claw clashes with Tinkatink's hammer.
"Revaroom, use Temper Flare on Tinkaton!" Chapeau says as Revavroom heats up and launches themselves at Tinkaton as Poppy smirks.
"Tinky, jump away!" Poppy says as Tinkaton nods and jumps away with Ash, Tinkatink and Penny surprised towards Tinky's movements.
Even with that hammer, she can still get away quickly. I can see why Tinkatink took interest in her. Ash thought to herself as Tinky continues her moves.
"Now Brick Break with your hands!" Poppy says as Tinky quickly drops the hammer and jumps off it to karate chop Revavroom sending them back as she swiftly grabs her hammer.
"Sandslash, use Drill Run!" the male grunt says as Sandslash nods and spins like a drill towards Flareon as Penny looked to Sandslash simply.
"Flare Blitz." Penny simply says as Flareon rushes at Sandslash in a flaming tackle sending Sandslash flying to be knocked out shocking the grunt. "Your Sandslash is 4 times weak to Fire, it was expected." Penny says as the grunt was comedically disappointed. Inspired by Poppy's Tinky, Ash had an idea.
"Tinkatink, push away Perrserker with your rattle!" Ash says as Tinkatink nods and pushes Perrserker before jumping back with her rattle glowing a pink hue.
C'mon Rattler, we're one and the same, a team so let's work together! Tinkatink thought to herself as she smacked Perrserker with her now pink hammer surprising Ash as his plan was different than before.
"That was Play Rough!" Ash says surprised as Perrserker is knocked back and Chapeau gritted his teeth.
"You think you're so tough aren't you trainers, you think you can ruin our happiness-" Chapeau didn't finish as he heard coughing to see a little girl with short black hair and was in a coughing fit as Chapeau stops to go to the little girl and next to her a Magnemite surprising Ash and the gang.
"Sally! What are you doing out of bed?" Chapeau says worryingly.
"I was having another coughing fit daddy and then I heard these noises downstairs." Sally says as Chapeau hugs her.
"A little girl, you're a father?" Ash says surprised as Chapeau nods.
"Yes. I was trying to raise money for my little girl to get her to a doctor because all the other doctors rejected me due to space and no matter where I looked, I can't find a clinic who was willing to accept me, that's why I began stealing" Chapeau says as Ash was surprised.
"Still, you stole from people and you'll most likely be away from your daughter for that. But, let me help you at least." Ash says much to Chapeau's surprise.
"Help me? How?" Chapeau says with suspicion.
"I can give you mon-" Ash didn't finish as the roof blown open to reveal a Meowth hot air balloon and a giant magnet which attached the piles of steel to the magnet as Ash and Chapeau gritted their teeth.
"Team Rocket!" Ash says.
"In the flesh." Jessie, James and Meowth say.
"No intro?" Penny says.
"We'll just get interrupted" Meowth says.
"Wobbuffet." Wobbuffet says agreeing with Meowth.
"You won't get away with that steel, Pikachu use-" Ash realized Pikachu wasn't with him as TR smirks.
"Well, tata." Jessie says as the balloon flies up but as it did, it also attracted the magnetization of Tinkatink and Tinky's hammers along with Sally as they were pulled into the the giant steel as it flew off causing Ash, Poppy and Chapeau to panic.
"TINKATINK/TINKY/SALLY!" the 3 say panicking as the balloon flies off.
"Rika!" Penny said through the earpiece.
"We heard, we're on the way!" Rika says
"We're coming you 3, Koraidon come on out!" Ash says as he throws out Koraidon as they nod, and Poppy sends out Corviknight.
"Corvy! Go help them in the sky!" Poppy says as Corviknight nods and flies off before she gets on Koraidon and he rides off.
"How did Sally get on there in the first place?" Penny says.
"She has a locket of her deceased mother in her pocket, the magnetization must be strong enough to pull her" Chapeau says as the ride along on Koraidon towards TR. Meanwhile, Tinkatink and Tinky manage to get on top of the steel block and help up Sally as Tinky held her close and reassured her.
"Tink, Tink, (Everything will be ok)" Tinky says as the girl held onto Tinky. Corviknight flew up right around their level without alerting TR.
"Get on!" Corviknight says as Tinky looked to the girl who nodded and jumped onto Corviknight but Tinkatink refused.
"I'll bring it down, I got this!" Tinkatink says as Tinkaton nods and Corviknight flies down, Tinkatink pulls out her hammer through the magnetization and climbs up to magnet to the balloon to overhear their conversation and sees a lever that was behind a glass cage.
"Behold my new creation!" James says as he, Inkay and Grafaiai present the glass barrier as Jessie and Meowth were dumbfounded.
"That's amazing, I didn't know glass boxes existed." Jessie says with sarcasm.
"Ahh, but it's not just glass, it's impervious to any form of attacks thanks to some special materials." James says with confidence as Tinkatink thinks to herself.
Impervious towards any attacks, that has to be a lie, so let's try it out. Tinkatink thought to herself as she jumps in the air creating a rock for Rock Tomb as TR noticed.
"It's the Champion twerp's Tinkatink!" Jessie says gritting her teeth as Grafaiai was ready for battle.
"Grafaiai, Slash!" James says as Grafaiai nods and jumps in the air with their fingers glowing but before he could attack, Tinkatink throws the rock at them sending them flying towards the glass leaving cracks but not enough to break as James panics. "Grafaiai!" James says holding Grafaiai as Tinkatink jumps into the hot air balloon and rushes in with Metal Claw trying to break the glass relentlessly.
"Oh no you don't! Yanmega deal with her!" Jessie says sending out Yanmega as her wings glow prepared to use Dual Wingbeat while Inkay rushes in to use Foul Play and both attack her, but she isn't letting down and doesn't want to give up, she uses Play Rough and takes hit after hit but isn't giving up.
I want to make Ash proud of me, I want to be as strong as Tinky, I want to work alongside my Rattler. Rattler, my other me, let's face these challenges head on together, you, me and Ash for the future! Tinkatink thought to herself as she starts to glow in a blue light as everyone covered their eyes and Tinkatink jumped in the air, her appearance becoming a bit bigger with a light pink ponytail and her rattle changing to a large hammer as the light clears away to reveal Tinkatuff.
"Tinkatuff!" Tinkatuff says as she uses Play Rough and smashes the glass breaking the lever panicking TR as the balloon lowers and the magnet falls closer to the ground. Tinkatuff sees the same Corviknight and hops on throwing a Rock Tomb to the balloon before Corviknight flies off as TR are blasting off.
"Who knew that just a single twerp's Pokemon could handle us." Jessie says.
"No more money schemes for a while." Meowth says as Jessie looked disappointed.
"We're blasting off again/Wobbuffet!" TR and Wobbuffet say.
Meanwhile, Ash and co make it to the giant magnet full of metals as they see Corviknight and Tinkatuff fly down as Chapeau and Sally obtain the locket and Poppy and Tinky retrieve Tinky's hammer. Tinkatuff jumped down from Corviknight and Ash and the gang were surprised to say the least. Rika, Geeta, Nemona, Arven and some officers along with mayor Kappe arrive shortly after with Pikachu running to Ash's open arms.
"Tinkatink evolved." Penny says as Ash scans Tinkatuff.
Tinkatuff, the Hammer Pokemon, Fairy/Steel and the evolved form of Tinkatink. These Pokémon make their homes in piles of scrap metal. They test the strength of each other's hammers by smashing them together.
Ash goes to hug Tinkatuff happily as Tinkatuff drops her hammer to hug her trainer back and Pikachu congratulates her.
"You're amazing Tinkatuff, you had me worried, but you managed to handle yourself and evolve, you're really getting stronger!" Ash says happy for his Pokemon as Tinkatuff tears up and smiles and hugs tighter. Poppy and Tinky go to Tinkatuff as Tinkatuff gets off and Tinky congratulates her as well.
"I can tell your Tinkatuff is ready for tomorrow, look at the strength she built." Poppy says as Tinkatuff blushes and nods but then things get serious as Kappe walks to his former friend Chapeau.
"Been a while old pal." Kappe says as Chapeau sighs.
"I know what you're here for, your steel and my arrest. But please, leave my grunts out of this and please take care of my daughter, she's the only one I have left." Chapeau says as Cappe's eyes soften.
"Why didn't you tell me about what you were going through?" Lappe says concerned as Chapeau sighs.
"I didn't want to place my burdens on you." Chapeau says.
"Normally, I would be angry at your actions but, you have such impressive architecture at your base, you were a skilled craftsman in high school, and you didn't hurt any of my citizens so I'm willing to make a compromise, I can get you a construction job within the Levincia Metro, it pays real well and I'll provide you with a home and utilities you need and maybe, we could restore our friendship." Kappe says lending his hand to his friend as Chapeau smiles and accepts his hand, but his daughter is coughing which worried everyone.
"That coughing." Ash says.
"She's been having these illnesses for a while, but I can't get her to a good hospital that might accept me." Chapeau says as Ash remembered what he wanted to do earlier and asks Rika for a checkbook and Rika helps him sign the check as Ash hands Chapeau a check which contained a special stamp that Rika did to certify a check made by a Champion.
"Mr. Champion?" Chapeau says as Ash softly smiles.
"It's the least I could do, it should help with any personal expenses and hospital bills. I want to make sure people have a safe and healthy future for all and to look out for people not just as a Champion of the world but as a good person as well." Ash says with a smile as Chapeau was surprised and teared up.
"I underestimated you kid; I apologize for my ignorance." Chapeau says as Kappe nods.
"And rest assured, my town has your full support no matter what." Kappe says as his Pincurchin jumps happily in agreement. Rika, Poppy, Geeta and the gang were surprised by Ash's kindness as Geeta softly laughs.
"I knew I made a good decision in making Ash a student of Naranja, he's a good kid." Geeta says as he walks over to Chapeau with another check and a special ticket. "Allow me to pitch in too, this ticket shall allow you access to a special hospital room for Champions with no expenses needed for the hospital." Geeta says as Chapeau was grateful. Ash prepared to leave with Geeta and Chapeau to go certify the Champion check but Poppy walks over to Ash.
"Mister Ash, I suggest in having our battle tomorrow at noon and have a 3 on 3, what do you say?" Poppy asks as Ash smiles and nods.
"I accept, we'll be training for our match tomorrow, but I promise that I won't lose right Tinkatuff, Pikachu!?" Ash says excitedly as both Pokemon cheered on as Poppy smiles and a surge of competitiveness rises within Poppy.
"We won't lose either right Tinky, Corvy!?" Poppy declares as Ash smiles and nods and heads off with the others but Rika notices that Tinkatuff is having issues moving with her hammer as she sighs.
Well, with Tinkatink having evolved into Tinkatuff, her hammer also evolved which means she might not be able to throw her hammer in the air to boost her moves power, can she handle that change? Rika thought to herself as Kappe got curious.
"By the way, how much did the kid give you?" Kappe asks as Rika, Chapeau, Poppy, Sally and Kappe look on as Kappe and Chapeau's eyes widen in comedic surprise.
"HOW RICH IS THIS KID!?" Kappe and Chapeau says surprised towards the check's money.
END
Omake: Tinky and Corvy's unexpected friendship?
A little while later, Team Ash plus Rika and Poppy meet up again for dinner and Nemona notices while their Pokemon were eating that Poppy's Corviknight and Tinkaton got along despite the species rivalry.
"Say Poppy, how does your Corviknight and Tinkaton get along together, aren't the two Pokemon normally enemies?" Nemona asks as Poppy smiles but Rika steps in.
"Well let's just say it isn't a normal friendship but more of, a rivalry." Rika says pointing towards the two Pokemon as they were having an eating contest and glaring at each other as Tinkatuff cheered Tinky on while Rika's Gallade cheers on Corvy.
"Rivals, can't say I didn't expect that. Maybe your Tinkatuff will have a Corviknight rival some day." Nemona jokingly suggested as they enjoy the night.
END
With that, next time, we finally reach the battle with Ash and Poppy next chapter, Ash's long awaited Elite 4 battle to earn one Champion Badge as part of the Champion's Bout but it also seems like Tinkatuff is having issues battling as her hammer changed. Can she and her hammer work out their differences in battle, you'll find out soon enough next time on Pokemon SVTA.
Ash's Tinkatuff's moves:
Play Rough, Rock Smash, Metal Claw, Rock Tomb
Random Character Bio:
Poppy Corteza (her former last name is unknown to Rika)
Age: 9
Hometown: Mesagoza, Paldea
Description: Her general past in unknown but it was presumably unhappy or troubled as her mother abandoned her at the Champion's Headquarters and because of that, she was adopted by Rika and her wife Romarin. Influenced by Rika and the Elite 4 (or Elite 3 at the time), she decided to become a Pokemon Trainer secretly training Steel types until she was found out by Rika, and she was surprised to learn of the Pokemon she caught. One day while near Zapapico, an Orthworm went out of control and she bravely calmed it down despite Rika worrying about her, Rika was surprised to see Poppy calming the Orthworm almost like she had a connection to Steel types like former member Acero did long ago and Poppy asks to join.
There was of course pushback from Rika and several others but when Poppy showed everyone what she was capable of in battle, they allowed her to become an Elite 4 member. She's a huge fan of sweets and her yellow bag is full of them and Geeta gives her treats often and despite Rika and Romarin being only her adoptive mothers, she came to love them as if they were her actual parents. She'll be a Naranja student next year.
Known Pokemon:
Tinkaton (nicknamed Tinky, Female, Fairy/Steel, TT: Steel, Ability: Own Tempo):
Description: Poppy's first Pokemon, she's been by her trainer's side since Poppy was 3 and loves her trainer deeply. Despite appearing childish, she's actually pretty smart and acts as a voice of reason alongside Rika towards Poppy.
Moves: Brick Break, Gigaton Hammer, Play Rough, Smack Down
Orthworm (nicknamed Orthy, Male, Steel, TT: Steel, Ability: Earth Eater)
Description: The Pokemon who was calmed down by Poppy, he went out of control due to an injury on his tail but has been healed. He's very kind.
Known moves: Iron Tail
Corviknight (nicknamed Corvy, Female, Flying/Steel, TT: Steel, Ability: Pressure)
Description: Tinky's rival, she bonded with Poppy over their shared love of Oran Berries and rather hating on Tinkaton like most Corviknight, she actually got along with Tinky though they do have a close rivalry with one another.