Ash stood frozen in shock as his mind was racing, trying to process Professor Sada's claim that Koraidon originally belonged to her. Something felt off. If Koraidon was hers, why did Arven have its Poké Ball? He wanted to ask, but before he could, Professor Sada seemingly overlooked the issue and shifted the conversation.

"So," Sada began with a playful smile, "Ash, I've been hearing quite a lot about you lately. World Champion at such a young age—impressive!" She leaned forward slightly. "Honestly, if I were 15 years younger, I might have taken a liking to you myself."

Ash's face turned bright red. "Wh-what?!" he stammered as he waved his hands in front of him. "T-that's—uh—"

Clavell cleared his throat, interrupting the awkward moment. "Ahem, Professor Sada. While your admiration is noted, I believe we should return to the matter at hand. What exactly do you wish to discuss with Ash?"

Sada straightened and let out a soft chuckle, regaining her composure. "Yes, of course," she said before turning her attention back to Ash. Her tone grew more serious. "As I mentioned earlier, I know Koraidon very well. It was once under my care during my expeditions in the Great Crater of Paldea, specifically within Area Zero."

Ash's eyes widened at the mention of Area Zero. "Area Zero…" he repeated. "What is Area Zero, exactly? I've only heard bits and pieces about it."

Sada smiled enigmatically but didn't elaborate. "Let's just say it's a place filled with wonders and mysteries far beyond what you can imagine," she said cryptically. "But that's not the focus right now." She paused and tilted her head slightly. "If I had to guess, you probably received Koraidon from Arven, didn't you?"

Ash blinked in surprise. "How did you—?"

Sada waved off his question with a knowing smile. "I have my ways," she said. Her gaze softened as she continued. "Koraidon is an incredibly important Pokémon. I want you to promise me something, Ash—promise me that you'll take good care of it."

Ash looked at Koraidon, who returned his gaze with an eager, almost hopeful expression. Without hesitation, he nodded. "Of course! I'll take care of Koraidon, no matter what!"

Sada's smile grew wider, and she let out a soft laugh. "I knew I could count on you." She leaned back slightly and added teasingly, "You're quite the reliable young man, aren't you? Maybe I should make a habit of calling you when I need a favor."

Ash rubbed the back of his neck. "Uh, sure… I guess," he mumbled awkwardly.

"Until we meet again, World Champion." With that, the screen flickered off, leaving the room in silence. Koraidon let out a low, almost mournful sound, clearly upset by Sada's departure.

Ash knelt down and patted the Pokémon gently. "Don't worry, buddy," he said softly. "I'll take care of you, just like she asked."

Clavell, who had been silent during the exchange, appeared deep in thought. His usual calm demeanor seemed momentarily disturbed as though he were pondering something troubling.

"Director? Is something wrong?" Ash asked, noticing the change.

Clavell quickly straightened and shook his head. "No, nothing at all, Master Ash," he said with a dismissive tone. "Merely contemplating the mysteries of Area Zero. You'd best head back to your friends now. They're waiting for you, after all."

Ash hesitated but eventually nodded. "Alright, if you're sure," he said before turning to Koraidon. "C'mon, Koraidon. Let's go meet up with Nemona and Arven."

As Ash left the office with Koraidon trotting beside him, Clavell stood in silence, staring at the now-blank monitor. His fingers tapped against the desk, and his expression remained tense. "Sada… just what did you discover in Area Zero?" he thought grimly.

Moments later...

With Koraidon safely secured back inside its Poké Ball to avoid drawing attention, Ash walked through the school corridors with Pikachu perched on his shoulder. He was about to exit the building when a familiar voice called out.

"Just a second, Ash!"

Ash and Pikachu turned to see Professor Jacq hurrying towards them, waving one hand while clutching a tablet in the other.

"Oh, hey, Professor Jacq! What's up?" Ash asked, stopping in his tracks.

Jacq smiled warmly as he approached. "I heard you're about to head out on your treasure hunt journey, and I thought I'd catch you before you left. I wanted to update your Rotom Phone so it can identify Pokémon native to the Paldea region. It'll be a big help out there."

Ash perked up at the suggestion. "Oh, that sounds like a great idea! Thanks, Professor." He hesitated for a moment before scratching his head sheepishly. "But, uh, I'm kinda in a hurry. Nemona and Arven are waiting for me, and I don't want to keep them waiting too long."

Jacq chuckled softly and waved a hand dismissively. "Don't worry, it'll only take a few minutes. Quick and painless, I promise!"

Reassured, Ash nodded and handed over his Rotom Phone. "Alright, if it won't take too long, go for it."

Jacq tapped away at the device, connecting it to his tablet. Pikachu watched curiously as a flurry of code streamed across the screen. After a short moment, the Rotom Phone beeped, signaling that the update was complete. "And done!" Jacq announced, handing the device back to Ash. "Now your Rotom Phone will automatically identify and log any Pokémon you encounter in the Paldea region. You're all set."

Ash grinned as he pocketed the phone. "Thanks a lot, Professor! This is gonna be super helpful."

Jacq nodded and adjusted his glasses. "No problem at all. I know you'll do great out there. Safe travels, Ash—and take care of yourself and Pikachu."

Ash gave a thumbs-up. "You got it! See you later, Professor!"

With that, Ash dashed towards the exit and disappeared through the doors.

Jacq stood there for a moment, smiling to himself. "That kid's really something."

Standing in front of the south gate of Mesagoza, which led to Area Three, Arven and Nemona waited for Ash. Both were packed and ready for the journey, though the difference in their attitudes was clear. Nemona leaned against a nearby post, radiating excitement, while Arven paced in mild frustration.

"Where is he?" Arven muttered, glancing toward the city. "I knew it. He's not coming. Let's just leave without him."

Nemona frowned, crossing her arms. "You're so impatient. Give him a minute."

At that moment, she caught sight of Ash approaching in the distance, Pikachu perched on his shoulder. "Hey, look! There he is!"

Ash jogged up to them, slightly out of breath. "Sorry, guys! Professor Jacq stopped me for a bit after I finished talking to Director Clavell."

Nemona smirked. "Oh, what did he stop you for, huh? Got in trouble again?"

"No!" Ash shot back with a flustered face.

Pikachu chimed in with an exasperated "Pika!" as if to back him up.

Arven, however, was more interested in Ash's earlier meeting. "Forget Jacq. What did the Director want you in his office for?" he asked.

Ash hesitated. He wasn't sure how—or even if—he should bring up his encounter with Professor Sada. The weight of Arven's expectant gaze only made him more unsure.

"What's wrong?" Arven pressed, noticing Ash's hesitation.

"N-Nothing's wrong!" Ash quickly denied, waving his hands.

Pikachu tilted its head, looking at him skeptically.

Arven didn't seem convinced, narrowing his eyes slightly. "You're a terrible liar, you know that?"

Before the tension could build, Nemona clapped her hands together. "Okay, enough stalling! Let's get moving already! Adventure awaits!"

Ash glanced at Arven, who looked like he had more questions but begrudgingly dropped the matter—for now. "So, uh, where should we head out first?" he asked, trying to sound casual. Pikachu looked between the two, seemingly relieved that the tension was subsiding.

Nemona's response was immediate and enthusiastic. "The first gym, of course!" she exclaimed, clenching her fists in excitement.

Arven groaned, rubbing his temples as if Nemona's enthusiasm gave him a headache. "Or," he began, pulling out his travel map and unfolding it, "We could head towards the first Titan location. That's where one of the sandwich ingredients is supposed to be."

Ash tilted his head in confusion. "Titan Pokémon?" he repeated as he had no idea what Arven was talking about.

Nemona let out an exaggerated sigh, placing her hands on her hips. "Jeez, Ash. Were you even listening to the Director's announcement earlier?" she teased, shaking her head.

Arven smirked, seizing the opportunity for a jab. "How in the world did you become the Monarch is beyond me," he muttered, earning an annoyed frown from Ash.

"Hey, I was busy trying to figure out where I'd be heading next!" Ash shot back defensively.

Arven rolled his eyes but decided to explain anyway. "Titan Pokémon," he began, pointing to specific spots on his map, "They are massive Pokémon rumored to be protecting these mystical ingredients called Herba Mystica. They're said to have all kinds of benefits—healing, strengthening, even boosting Pokémon performance. I'm on a mission to find them."

Ash's curiosity was piqued. "So, these Titans are like super-strong Pokémon?"

"Exactly," Arven confirmed. "But they're not just strong—they're huge and can be really dangerous. It's not gonna be a walk in the park."

Nemona leaned in with an eager grin. "Ooh, that sounds like a challenge! What do you think, Ash? Titans first, or the gym?"

Ash looked between Nemona and Arven, scratching his head. "Huh… Titans do sound kinda cool. But what about this sandwich ingredient thing? Why's it so important?"

Arven's expression softened slightly, though he quickly covered it with a shrug. "I told you before...it's personal," he said simply. "But trust me, it's worth it."

Nemona crossed her arms, glancing at Arven with a skeptical look. "Fine, Titans it is—for now. But you owe me a battle later, Ash!" she declared.

Ash chuckled nervously. "Yeah, yeah, sure. Let's just figure out where this first Titan is."

Ash and his friends ventured deeper into Area Three. The open landscape stretched before them like a painter's canvas. Rocky canyons loomed in the distance as their rugged edges softened by the golden sunlight. Grassy fields spread out like a green ocean, swaying gently with the breezy winds. Dirt paths crisscrossed the terrain, lined with scattered rocks and patches of wildflowers.

Ash's eyes sparkled with excitement as he scanned the area with his head swiveling left and right to take it all in. Pikachu, perched on his shoulder, shared his enthusiasm, letting out cheerful cries. "Pika-Pika!"

"Whoa, look at this place, Pikachu! It's amazing!" Ash said, grinning ear to ear.

All around them, Pokémon of all shapes and sizes roamed freely. Familiar ones like Spoink bounced along the paths with their pearlescent orbs shimmering in the sun. Packs of Shinx prowled nearby, their blue-and-yellow fur bristling with static energy. But what caught Ash's eye most were the new Pokémon: a mushroom-like rock Pokémon, Nacli, stood still like a statue until it shifted slightly, revealing its moss-covered body. Above them, Rookidee, small bird Pokémon with blue feathers and piercing red eyes, flitted through the sky in small flocks.

Nemona walked beside Ash, chuckling softly at his wide-eyed wonder. "You're like a kid in a candy store, Ash," she teased. She placed her hands on her hips and tilted her head. "So, any idea which Pokémon you're gonna catch first? Your team's bound to be full of surprises!"

Ash stopped in his tracks, glancing around with a thoughtful expression. "I don't know yet," he admitted, scratching his cheek. "There are so many cool ones to choose from!" Pikachu nodded in agreement.

Arven, trailing a bit behind, folded his arms and huffed. "You better decide soon. We don't have all day to watch you catch Pokémon."

Nemona shot him a playful glare. "Relax, Arven! This is part of the treasure hunt—exploring, battling, and, yes, catching Pokémon."

Ash grinned at her words. "Yeah, and I plan to catch some awesome ones! Let's see what's out there, Pikachu!"

"Pika!" Pikachu cheered, its cheeks sparking with excitement.

Arven groaned. "I knew traveling with you two battle-crazed maniacs would be nothing but a headache."

As the group walked along the dirt path leading to the Pokémon Center in the open field, Ash's sharp eyes caught movement off to the side. Something was crawling along a rocky outcrop as its unusual appearance immediately grabbed his attention.

"Whoa! What Pokémon is that?" Ash exclaimed, stopping in his tracks.

Ash quickly pulled out his Rotom Phone, aiming it at the mysterious creature.

The screen lit up with information as the phone identified the Pokémon:

Klawf – The Ambush Pokémon.
Type: Rock
Klawf can rotate its head 180 degrees to watch for prey or predators. It grips tightly with its claws, making it difficult for enemies to escape.

The Pokémon resembled a large crustacean. Its orange carapace was rugged and stony, with three pentagonal shapes protruding from its top. Its cream underbelly contrasted with its bright pink cheeks, which glowed faintly red. The creature's large mouth, lined with rectangular "teeth" that resembled battlements, gave it an imposing look. Klawf's eight appendages ended in sharp claws, and tufts of black, fur-like bristles protruded from between its eyes and joints.

"It looks so cool!" Ash said, his voice brimming with excitement.

"Pika!" Pikachu nodded in agreement.

Arven and Nemona stepped closer, also noticing the peculiar Pokémon for the first time. Nemona tilted her head, placing her hands on her hips. "I've never seen this one before."

Arven crossed his arms, studying Klawf with interest. "Yeah, it's definitely not your everyday Pokémon. But good luck trying to catch it."

Ash's face lit up with determination. "It's going to be the first Pokémon I catch in Paldea!"

Ash dashed forward with Pikachu perched on his shoulder. The sudden movement startled Klawf, who turned to face them, claws raised in defense.

"That's the one, Pikachu! Let's take it out quick!" Ash called.

Klawf's eyes narrowed as it recognized a challenge. With a sharp cry, it lunged forward with its claws glowing silver as it swung with Metal Claw.

"Watch out—that's Metal Claw!" Nemona shouted from behind.

"Pikachu, dodge it!" Ash commanded.

Pikachu leaped gracefully from Ash's shoulder, evading Klawf's attack with ease.

"Now, Thunderbolt!" Ash ordered.

Electricity surged from Pikachu's cheeks and arced towards Klawf. The attack connected, but Klawf reacted swiftly with its body shimmering as it used Harden to lessen the impact. The trainers watched in surprise as the Electric-type move barely phased it.

"It's tough!" Nemona exclaimed.

"Really tough," Arven muttered. "This might take a while."

Klawf retaliated, slamming its claws into the ground and sending chunks of rock hurtling towards Pikachu with Rock Throw.

"Pikachu, look out!" Ash shouted.

Pikachu did its best to avoid the rocky projectiles, but one of the rocks eventually struck Pikachu, knocking it back. It skidded across the dirt but quickly scrambled to its feet.

"Hang in there, buddy! Fire back with Electro Ball!" Ash yelled.

Pikachu formed a crackling ball of electricity at the tip of its tail and hurled it at Klawf. The crab Pokémon braced itself, using Harden once again to fortify its defenses. The attack collided with Klawf's hardened shell but did minimal damage.

"It's just shrugging it off!" Nemona said.

Ash's eyes narrowed. "Not this time. Pikachu, follow up with Thunderbolt—now!"

The two moves hit in quick succession. The combined force of the Electro Ball and Thunderbolt overwhelmed Klawf's defense, causing an explosion of light and dust. When the dust settled, Klawf was sprawled on its back with its legs flailing helplessly.

"Gotcha now!" Ash grinned, reaching for a Poké Ball.

But before he could throw it, Klawf let out a sharp cry and flipped itself upright. Its pink cheeks glowed as it darted away with surprising speed, scrambling up a rocky incline.

"Hey, come back here!" Ash shouted, sprinting after it.

Nemona laughed as she ran to catch up. "Ash, you're relentless!"

"This is ridiculous!" Arven called, groaning as he followed them. "It's just one Pokémon!"

After what felt like an exhausting chase, Ash and Pikachu stopped in their tracks, scanning the rocky terrain with determined eyes. "Where'd it go?" Ash muttered as he rubbed the back of his head. Pikachu sniffed the air, but even it couldn't locate Klawf.

The Pokémon was nowhere to be seen.

Nemona and Arven finally caught up with the latter bent over and gasping for air. "You… have way… too much energy…" Arven huffed, clutching his knees.

"Aw, man, it got away," Ash said, clearly disappointed. "I really wanted to catch it—it looked pretty strong."

Nemona stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Ash's shoulder. "Don't sweat it, Ash. There are plenty of Pokémon in Paldea, and I'm sure you'll find another awesome one to catch. Maybe even stronger!"

Arven straightened, still catching his breath. "Stronger or not, chasing it halfway across Area Three wasn't worth it. Let's head to the next town and regroup before you two drag me into another wild goose chase."

Nemona smirked, leaning towards Arven with a teasing glint in her eyes. "What's the matter, Arven? Can't keep up with a little adventure? You really need to work on that stamina."

Arven scowled, crossing his arms. "Maybe you should try keeping your enthusiasm in check. Not everyone runs on a bottomless pit of energy like you and Ash."

Pikachu snickered, and even Ash chuckled despite his earlier disappointment. "All right, you two. Let's call it a draw and head to the town," Ash said, stepping between them.

With the group in agreement, they began walking along the dirt path towards the nearby town. Laughter and playful banter filled the air as Nemona continued teasing Arven, who grumbled. Unbeknownst to them, a pair of glowing eyes watched from the shadows of a rocky cliff above. Klawf had cleverly camouflaged itself against the stony surface, blending in perfectly. It remained motionless, observing the trainers with a shrewd gaze. Once it was certain they were leaving, it relaxed slightly, proud of its ability to outwit the would-be captors.