The courtyard of Naranja Academy was filled with students and staff, all waiting in anticipation for Director Clavell's special announcement. The air buzzed with excitement, and among the sea of curious faces were Ash, Nemona, Arven, Penny, Rika, and Geeta, all standing together. The students whispered among themselves, speculating about what the announcement could be, while Ash stood near the front, Pikachu perched on his shoulder, eagerly awaiting the reveal.

Finally, Director Clavell took the stage. He raised a hand to quiet the crowd, and the murmurs died down. "Good morning, students and staff of Naranja Academy!" he began, "It is with great excitement that I announce the start of one of our academy's most cherished traditions: the annual treasure hunt!"

The crowd erupted in cheers and applause. Ash tilted his head slightly. "Treasure hunt?" he muttered, exchanging a glance with Nemona, who grinned knowingly.

Clavell continued, "This event is designed to encourage you, our bright students, to explore the vast and beautiful region of Paldea. Each of you will embark on your own unique journey, seeking out your personal treasures. These treasures may take many forms: discovering rare items, challenging Gym Leaders, encountering unique Pokémon, or simply learning more about yourself and the world around you."

Ash's eyes sparkled with excitement, and Pikachu let out an enthusiastic "Pika!"

"But," Clavell added, his tone turning serious, "there is one important rule I must emphasize: under no circumstances are students to enter the Great Crater of Paldea—also known as Area Zero—without explicit permission from the Pokémon League Committee. This area is strictly off-limits and poses significant dangers."

Ash blinked. "The Great Crater? Why is it so special?" he whispered to Nemona, who shrugged but kept smiling.

Before he could ask more, Arven, standing nearby, groaned and placed a hand on Ash's shoulder. "Seriously, Ash? You don't even know about the Great Crater? Were you even paying attention in class?"

Ash chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. "Uh, I might've dozed off during that lecture..."

Arven sighed deeply, crossing his arms. "Figures. The Great Crater is one of the most mysterious places in Paldea. It's dangerous, filled with wild Pokémon we don't fully understand, and even some of the best researchers have trouble studying it. That's why it's off-limits, and why the League takes it so seriously."

Penny, standing off to the side, adjusted her glasses. "Not to mention, it's surrounded by a lot of rumors and weird stories. People say strange things happen there."

Ash's curiosity only grew. "Strange things? Like what?"

Arven waved his hand dismissively. "Doesn't matter. Just don't go poking around there, alright? You've got enough on your plate with this treasure hunt."

Nemona chuckled, patting Ash on the back. "Looks like you've got some catching up to do, Ash. But hey, that just means your treasure hunt will be even more exciting!"

As Clavell wrapped up his speech, encouraging the students to set out and make the most of their adventure, Ash couldn't help but feel a thrill of anticipation. The promise of exploring Paldea, encountering rare Pokémon, and uncovering secrets filled him with determination.

"Alright, Pikachu," he said, his grin spreading wide. "Looks like we've got a lot of work to do!"

"Pika-pika!" Pikachu squeaked in agreement.

Moments later...

As the courtyard gradually emptied, students dispersed in groups, buzzing with excitement about their upcoming treasure hunts. Ash and Nemona lingered near the stage, talking animatedly about their plans, when Rika and Geeta approached them.

Rika crossed her arms and fixed Ash with a firm look. "Alright, Ash," she said, her tone teasing but firm, "just because you're the Monarch doesn't mean you get special treatment. You still have to follow the rules like everyone else, got it?"

Ash blinked in surprise, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. "I wasn't expecting any special treatment, honest."

Nemona chuckled at his awkwardness while Pikachu perched on his shoulder, giving a reassuring "Pika!"

Geeta giggled softly. "Oh, Rika, lighten up. Ash is already well aware of his responsibilities. Besides, it's not every day we have the academy's Monarch and top Champion-ranked student embarking on the treasure hunt together. They'll set an excellent example."

Rika sighed, running a hand through her hair. "Yeah, yeah, you've got a point, Geeta. I just don't want him to get too comfortable being the big shot, that's all."

Ash grinned, taking the light scolding in stride. "Don't worry, Rika. I'm just here to have fun and learn more about Paldea. No special treatment needed!"

Geeta smiled warmly, placing a hand on Ash's shoulder. "That's the spirit. Both of you are among the academy's top trainers, so I'm expecting great things from your treasure hunt. Stay safe and have fun exploring."

Nemona gave a thumbs-up. "You bet! Ash and I will make this the best treasure hunt ever!"

Rika rolled her eyes but couldn't hide a small smile. "Alright, alright, I'll stop nagging. Just don't get into any trouble, you two." She glanced at Nemona with a knowing smirk. "And keep an eye on this guy, Nemona. He's got a habit of attracting chaos."

Nemona laughed. "No promises, but I'll try!"

As Rika turned to leave, Geeta gave one last wave. "Good luck, you two. We'll be keeping an eye on your progress."

With that, the two women walked away, leaving Ash and Nemona to finalize their plans.

Ash glanced at Nemona. "So, where should we do first?"

As Ash and Nemona prepared to set off, Arven's voice rang out, drawing their attention. "Hey, Ash!" he called, striding toward them with a determined look on his face and a hint of frustration in his tone.

Ash turned, blinking in surprise. "Arven? What's up?"

Arven crossed his arms, glancing between Ash and Nemona before speaking. "This is the perfect chance to put your Monarch skills to good use. I've got a mission that needs someone with your talents." He leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "I'm searching for special ingredients to make the ultimate sandwich, and I could really use your help."

Nemona's brow furrowed as she stepped forward. "Wait a minute, Arven. Ash was going to come with me to challenge Gym Leaders! We already had plans, and besides, that sounds way more exciting than hunting sandwich ingredients."

Arven frowned, his annoyance growing. "Exciting? Nemona, Ash is the World Champion. Why would he waste his time on Gym battles? He's already proven he's the best. What's the point?"

Nemona scowled. "Because it's about the journey, Arven! It's about meeting trainers, learning new strategies, and having fun! Not everything has to be about proving something!"

The two began bickering, their voices growing louder as they defended their points. Ash watched them with an awkward smile, scratching the back of his head. Pikachu sighed, sitting on Ash's shoulder with a resigned expression.

Before Ash could decide, his Rotom Phone buzzed loudly, drawing everyone's attention. He quickly answered the call, and a distorted, robotic voice spoke from the other end.

"Hello, Ash. It seems you're quite popular right now," said Cassiopeia. "But please ignore Arven and Nemona. I need your help with something far more urgent—dealing with Team Star. Their influence is growing, and I believe only you can assist in bringing them down."

Nemona and Arven froze. They exchanged confused looks before Nemona asked, "Wait... how do you know our names?"

Arven narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "Yeah, who even are you? And how do you know so much about us?"

Cassiopeia ignored their questions. "Ash, this mission is critical. I trust you'll make the right choice. What do you say?"

All eyes were on Ash now—Nemona, Arven, and even Pikachu waited for his answer. The weight of their expectations hung in the air as Ash considered his response.

Ash stood with his arms crossed as he weighed the options before him. Each one had a compelling reason, and Ash genuinely wanted to help all of them without leaving anyone feeling left out. His eyes lit up as a grin spread across his face.

"I've got an idea!" he exclaimed, catching everyone's attention. "Why don't we all travel together? That way, we can help each other out! Arven, we can look for your ingredients, and Nemona, we can still visit Gyms. Plus, we can deal with Team Star on the way. It'll be like one big adventure!"

Nemona and Arven turned to each other as their faces immediately contorted into expressions of disbelief. They simultaneously pointed at each other and shouted, "Travel with him/her?!"

Arven scowled, crossing his arms. "No way! She'll slow me down with all her battle-crazy nonsense."

Nemona gasped, clearly offended. "Excuse me? I'm not the one wasting time chasing sandwich ingredients!"

"Sandwiches are important!" Arven shot back.

Ash sighed, shaking his head as Pikachu facepalmed on his shoulder. "Come on, guys. It'll be fun! Think about it: we can all learn from each other and make the most out of the treasure hunt. We're stronger as a team."

Nemona folded her arms, glaring at Arven. "Fine, but only because Ash suggested it. Don't think I'm going to go easy on you if you slow me down."

Arven groaned, rubbing his temples. "I still think this is a terrible idea, but... fine. If Ash is willing to help me out, I guess I'll put up with Ms. Battle-Crazed President over here."

Nemona bristled at the comment, narrowing her eyes. "I'll show you 'battle-crazed'!"

Cassiopeia, who had remained silent during the exchange, finally spoke. "If everyone is in agreement, then I'll count on all of you to assist with the Team Star issue. Good luck, Ash." With that, the call ended.

Ash let out a relieved sigh, grinning at his companions. "See? This is gonna be great. Just wait and see, guys!"

Nemona and Arven exchanged wary glances but reluctantly nodded.

As the trio was about to head off on their shared adventure, Director Clavell approached with his hands clasped behind his back. His expression was calm but firm as he addressed them.

"Excuse me, Master Ash," Clavell began politely. "Might I have a moment of your time to speak with you in my office?"

Ash flinched slightly at the honorific. "Master" felt far too formal for him, and he rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "Uh, sure, Director. But, uh... 'Master' Ash? That's a bit much."

Nemona grinned mischievously, nudging Ash in the ribs. "Ooooh, what did you do, Ash? Are you in trouble already? Didn't take you long!"

Ash groaned, his face turning red. "Come on, Nemona, cut it out! I didn't do anything... I think."

Director Clavell chuckled softly, raising a hand to reassure them. "No need to worry; you are not in any sort of trouble. It's merely a matter of importance that I wish to discuss privately."

With that, Ash sighed in relief and gave a nod. "Alright, I'll come along. Nemona, Arven, you two can wait for me at the entrance gate. I'll meet you there once I'm done."

Nemona saluted with a playful smirk. "You got it, Master Ash."

Arven, arms crossed, rolled his eyes. "Don't keep us waiting too long, Monarch. I've got places to be, and ingredients to find."

Ash waved them off, following Clavell toward his office, all the while muttering to Pikachu on his shoulder, "I hope this isn't going to be one of those long lectures..."

...

Once Ash stepped into Clavell's office, the Director gestured toward a TV screen. Ash raised an eyebrow, a little confused by the sudden request. "Uh, what's this about, Director?" he asked, but Clavell merely gave a small, reassuring smile.

"Just watch, Ash. You'll see," Clavell instructed calmly.

The moment Ash looked at the screen, it flickered to life. A slender young woman appeared on the monitor, her presence immediately striking. She wore a two-piece orange crop top and shorts, orange furry stockings, brown sandals, and a white lab coat trimmed with light pink fur. Orange nail polish and diamond-shaped earrings complemented her outfit, while two pieces of hair framed her face, and a belly chain draped around her shorts. Her eyes locked with Ash's, and she smiled warmly.

"Hello, Ash," she greeted in a voice full of sincerity. "I've heard many great things about you. It's an honor to finally meet you in person—well, not physically, but at least through the screen."

Ash blinked in confusion. "Uh, nice to meet you too, but… who are you?" He took a step closer, scanning her appearance, wondering how she knew so much about him. This was the first time he was seeing her.

Before he could voice his questions, he felt a slight stirring at his belt. His eyes widened as Koraidon's Poké Ball began to tremble. He didn't even have time to react before the Pokémon materialized in a flash of light.

"Wait, what?!" Ash gasped, completely taken by surprise as Koraidon appeared right before him.

Clavell, standing behind his desk, narrowed his eyes slightly at the unexpected turn of events but remained silent. Ash, still stunned, looked back at the screen, trying to process what was happening.

The woman on the screen noticed Koraidon's arrival, and her expression softened with genuine warmth. "Hello, Koraidon," she said, her voice almost affectionate. "It's nice seeing you again."

Ash's jaw dropped. "What?!" he exclaimed, his mind spinning as he stared at Koraidon, then back at the woman on the screen. "How do you know Koraidon? How does Koraidon know you?"

The woman chuckled softly at his reaction, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "I suppose I should introduce myself properly," she stated. "My name is Professor Sada, and Koraidon here happens to belong to me."

Ash's eyes widened. "Wha—?!" His voice trailed off as his brain tried to make sense of the impossible claim. "Wait, what?!"