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Chapter Text

In the quaint village of Kitakami, where the mountains held ancient secrets and whispered tales of a tragic past, a confrontation was brewing. The air was thick with tension as the villagers gathered to apologize to Ogerpon, the misunderstood ogre who had become the center of their twisted traditions.

"We’re so sorry, dear ogre!"

“Ogerpon is so cute!”

The apologies echoed through the air, each word cutting deeper into Ryuga's soul. He could feel the anger boiling within him, fueled by the knowledge of the village's dark secrets, courtesy of Carmine's grandfather. As the villagers continued their insincere apologies, three of them returned with Kieran, making Ryuga's blood boil even more.

Ryuga, the boy from Paldea, couldn't bear the facade of remorse any longer. Did the villagers truly believe that a mere apology could undo the years of suffering inflicted upon Ogerpon? The stolen masks, the twisted game of Ogre Ousting – all of it had taken a toll on the gentle creature.

“Stop... stop toying with Ogerpon's life!” Ryuga's voice, usually calm, erupted with a fiery passion.

This made everyone including Carmine, Ogerpon, and Kieran look onward in shock and disbelief at the young boy from Paldea. They had never seen the furious expression on the boy’s face.

“What are you doing-” The villager tried to question before Ryuga's intense glare silenced them.

“I am calling you all hypocrites! All of you!” Ryuga growls menacing, “All Ogerpon ever wanted was her wish to be realized! Your village turned everything into a game! You used Ogerpon to advertise your bloody village without any regard to how she felt, or see how she suffered!” he snapped with furious in his tone.

Carmine tried to calm Ryuga down. “Wait, Ryuga! Please calm-”

*SLAP!*

Carmine looks stunned when the young boy slaps her hand from him.

“Don't get in my way!” Ryuga snapped angry, “These apologies that the villagers making are nothing more than sugarcoating their actions and it pissed me off. I want to bring this place down for living off Ogerpon's suffering for years. All those years they stole from her when she could be happier…”

Carmine can’t help, but remain where she was. No matter how much she wanted to deny it, some part of Ryuga’s words were true.

Kieran tried to interfere when seeing Ryuga berating the village. “Wait, that is not true! I have always loved the Ogre from the—"

Suddenly a bright light got in Kieran’s way as Skeledirge, Toxtricity, Corviknight, Gallade, and Baxcalibur stood in the way. However, they have more rage expressions upon their face and let out a union roar as they resonate with their trainer’s anger for the injustice actions to Ogerpon.

Kieran and the villagers couldn’t help but move slowly back from the sight of these angry pokemon as Ryuga stared hard at Kieran and the villagers.

“Do you know why she stay around Kitakami after everything happened to her, Kieran? The Masks… this village stolen from her was here and her hope of reclaiming them without resorting to violence toward the village after what happened… but that will never happen as long as the village continued to hold this wicked tradition.” Ryuga asked.

“Her Masks…?” It wasn’t just Kieran, but Carmine was also in shock when she wondered when Ryuga had the time to ask Ogerpon the question.

“Her Masks are her last link with her friend whom she lost tragedy and why she always lurking around the mountain and watching from below. But you never have the gut to ask when you flee yourself back to your village when Carmine offered you. You are just like them.” Ryuga continued calmly.

“You think that you are worthy of her… because you think you’re a hero in a story?!” Kieran snapped in anger and mostly jealousy as this shocked most of the villagers including his family.

This made the boy from Paldea narrow his eyebrows at him.

"A hero? Do you really need a special position in order to save someone or anyone? Do you really need that position so everyone can praised for beating up someone who just wanted to get their precious items back? Do you really need that special position to get everyone to listen to you about the whole truth? The truth that they used a kind pokemon as a scapegoat and made her bullies heroes for generations?” Ryuga retorted seriously. “Do you really need that special position by waiting for her to come back so you can impress her when you should stand beside her in her distress? If that is your standard of being a hero… then I rejected all of them!” Ryuga declared, making Kieran flinch in shock.

“Even though this field trip is going to be short, I will fight my way out of here. After all, my Champion Rank isn't for show.” Ryuga added.

And at that, Koraidon appeared from his Pokeball and also looked ready to fight.

This made the young boy look slightly surprised. “Oh? Do you also want action this time? Well after facing the other one I doubt many things can scare you.” Ryuga replied with a smirk.

“Giiiiias!”

Ogerpon just looks surprised at the boy from Paldea. “Pon…?”

Ryuga looks softly at her. “Ogerpon you have chosen to go with me, so as a member of my team I assure you: You will have nothing to fear with us around... though I know you are very strong yourself, and yet you haven't unleashed your rage against this village... you really are kindhearted.” He added sincerity.

Ogerpon, for the first time in her life, never heard such kind words to her as tears flowed down her eyes. This was the first time anyone called her kind in a very long time.

Ryuga turned back to Kieran and the villagers with a glare.

“You make me laugh, Kieran! You wanted Ogerpon here where she will suffer more loneliness and despair by being your prized possession? Any trainers treated their pokemon as their prize, without thinking about what they want is nothing more than trash. Did Ogerpon even want to be a prize at all?” Ryuga stated defiantly. “If you continued to treat Ogerpon as your valuable prize than a living being… then we show you no mercy!” he declared with resolve.

All of Ryuga’s Pokemons let out their roar as they vow to bring brutal retribution to the village of Kitakami.

(Few days later)

“I see… So the lore of the of three Loyal Pokemons was false…” Director Clavell finished after hearing Ryuga’s account about what happened.

“And the village was living off of Ogerpon’s suffering,” Ryuga added calmly, sitting on the opposite of the Director’s desk.

The Director took a moment to recollect everything he heard and got up before making his way forward to Ryuga.

“After I heard your accounts of what happened in Kitakami and the origin, I had no right to be angry with you in the slightest. If I was the one who found out the truth, I would brought the village’s tradition down years ago and given Ogerpon a home in Paldea.” Clavell said truthfully.

“I see. So what… happens now?” Ryuga asked.

“Unlike what happens in Area Zero, this news is something I can bring forward to the public… but there is one thing that concerns me.” Clavell said, making the young boy raise an eyebrow.

“And what is that?” The young boy asked.

“Those three Pokemons… you mentioned was brought back to life from their gravesite, correct?” Clavell inquired seriously. That is one part of Ryuga’s story that doesn’t make any sense to the director.

“Yeah, it was unbelievable when that happened after Kieran left their grave,” Ryuga said.

“Did you think that Kieran revived them somehow with Ogerpon’s mask?” Clavell asked.

The young boy ponders the question before shaking his head.

“I don’t think so… Ogerpon’s Teal Mask can only revive plant lives.” Ryuga answered truthfully.

“I see…” Clavell muttered. ‘If it is not the boy, then—Impossible! Considered who ‘she’ is and why ‘she’ want to go down there. There is no doubt that ‘she’ being the one responsible for bring them back to live, then that also means the lore about the lake on the mountain is genuine…’ He pondered.

“Director, do you have an idea on how they were brought back?” Ryuga asked.

“I have a theory, but I don’t have enough evidence to proved if it is true or not. I will let you know the staff and I will get to the bottom of this mystery.” Clavell said as this is a promise to one of the students who helped save Paldea.

Though Ryuga wants to know more... he decides to let Clavell handle this matter for now.

“I see…” Ryuga said.

“Master Ryuga, how is Ogerpon doing?” Clavell inquired about the new pokemon Ryuga has.

“She is doing fine. But still not used to new people besides me and my Pokemon after we came back here.” Ryuga replied, gesturing to the friend ball on his belt. Clavell nodded.

“That is understandable for what happens to her. But there is no doubt that there are those who refused to accept the truth about Ogerpon, you have a heavy responsibility for her to show the world that.” The director said.

“I know that when she chooses to be with me, and I won’t give up on her.” Ryuga said with a smirk. Clavell smiled.

“I won’t hold you here for any further. I’m positive that your friends would want to see you after your return from the short field trip. And should you ever need to speak about this, feel free to come to my office and talk to me?” The Director spoke as he went and opened the door for his student.

The young boy got off his chair and waved his hand on the Director before heading out of the front door. The young boy soon wandered down the hallway.

“I wonder what should I show her?” Ryuga pondered about his planning of showing Ogerpon around Paldea and what places he might start.

Just then he hears footsteps making their way toward him, Ryuga turns around to see his friends Arven, Penny, and Nemona.

“Hey guys,” Ryuga greeted casually.

“Pero bueno! Ryuga, when did you come back and what happened to the field trip?” Nemona questioned with a surprised expression.

“And why were you in Clavell’s office?” Arven asked with a worried expression.

“I decided to end the trip shortly, guys.” Ryuga answered truthfully. After everything they went together in Area Zero, he can least be honest with them about what happened.

“What do you mean shortly…? What did you do?” Penny asked carefully.

“How about I get some snacks first before we head to my dorm room? It will take some time… Talking about it with Director Clavell was exhausting.” Ryuga suggested. Not to mention the memories of what happened in Kitakami was still fresh on his mind.

(Few hours later)

“And that is why I came back here earlier with the field trip canceled.” Ryuga finished his story.

They were sitting scattered around in Ryuga’s dorm room. But Penny, Arven, and Nemona were completely silent after Ryuga just finished telling his account. Not that Ryuga wasn’t surprised by his friends’ reaction since he was like them when finding out everything about Kitakami lore being a lie.

“So that's why you came back earlier after bombed the village?” Arven asked.

“So all Ogerpon wanted was getting her masks back… but was treated as a monster while her bullies become heroes?” Nemona asked slightly shocked before becoming angry. “What in the world is wrong with them?”

“So the lore of Kitakami was nothing more the lies and they used to build an advertisement for their village.” Penny scoffed. For some, the true story of Ogerpon was something that resonated with her and Team Star.

Ryuga nodded while eating his snack.

“But seriously, did you have to pull a reckless stun like that in the field trip?” Penny continued, glaring at Ryuga.

Ryuga looks at the blue and red-haired girl. “Ever since I hear the truth story about Ogerpon… I can’t help but feel a sense of disgust over how I felt over the village and how they used her suffering for profit. That is why I volunteered to help get Ogerpon’s masks back and know her better. By the time we returned to the village after retrieving the masks, I couldn’t help but feel angry at the villagers. Angry that the villagers were trying to sugarcoat what they were using Ogerpon’s suffering as a way to profit their village and that they were fine by it. Angry at Kieran for trying to use this method to get Ogerpon when he didn’t come with us. I can’t simply let them near Ogerpon again, or they would simply treat her as a prize rather than a living being with feelings and emotions. My pokemons feel the same as I did.” Ryuga replied honestly as this made his friends sympathize with him.

“So… can we see her, Bud?” Arven asked, feeling really curious about his friend’s new pokemon and someone whom Ryuga was willing to protect from Kitakami people.

“Sure… but she is rather shy around new people,” Ryuga said before getting out the friend ball and summoning Ogerpon out.

“Poni?” Ogerpon stirred up from her sleep on the floor. She suddenly became startled by the appearance of Ryuga’s friends before she placed on her teal mask to cover her face.

“So that Ogerpon?” Penny asked, as she and others looked amazed and intrigued by the new pokemon.

“Ay, Dios Mios! She is so cute!” Nemona said before trying to hug Ogerpon. But the masked pokemon leaped out of the way and went to the safest spot… behind Ryuga’s back.

“You really need to know when to read the mood, Prez.” Arven said, pinching the arch of his nose.

“What was that?!” Nemona retorted with a tick mark.

Ryugen gently petted Ogerpon and offered some snacks to her. “Don’t worry. No one here is going to hurt you.” He said softly.

“Pon…” Ogerpon whispered before carefully eating the snacks under her mask.

“So what Director say about the truth behind Ogerpon?” Penny asked curious.

“He thinks that it will take some time to publish the story but there are those who might refuse to accept it. But I don’t really care. Ogerpon is a kindhearted pokemon than what they say. She has more chance of being happier here than Kitakami. I’m going to make sure of that.” Ryuga replied smiling.

“You mean us.” Nemona interjected. “We can work on battling to help her overcome her shyness now!” she proposes her new plan to help Ogerpon open up to everyone.

This made Ryuga chuckle, “Sure… but I warned you, Ogerpon is really strong.” He pointed out as she lasted longer than anyone his team faced before.

“My team can take whatever she throws at!” Nemona said with a grin.

Ryuga then turns toward Ogerpon who stares back at him with her teal mask on. “Do you want a battle? I am sure Nemona and her pokemons would be a great practice for you until you can comfortably stand in front of a crowd.” He offered kindly.

The mask pokemon thought about it carefully before she nodded.

“Great,” Nemona said, feeling excited to fight against Ogerpon.

Chapter Text

The sunlight shined straight into the resident of Ryuga and his mother in the region of Paldea. Ryuga stirred up and let out a yawn as the light shined brightly through the window of his room. Before the young boy got up, he felt a large weight pressed down on him and prevented him from getting up. This made him look down to see it was none other than Ogerpon, the new pokemon he befriended in Kitakami and brought her safely home with him.

It has been a few months after Ryuga and his pokemon returned to Paldea. Ryuga did have to face minor opposition in regard to his part in wrecking the field trip of Kitakami before Clavell cleared up with the truth behind the lore of Kitakami, leaving many students and adults in shock and mortified. This is why he likes Director Clavell since he doesn’t sugarcoat and actually tries to find out the truth by dressing up as ‘Clive’.

It is a good thing that his friends and teachers respected his request to not call him a hero. Ryuga doesn’t want to be compared to those bullies and give Ogerpon bad memories of her beloved friend’s death. Ryuga has been working on helping Ogerpon adjust to being here in Paldea and the Mask Pokemon learned quickly to adapt. Despite they left her old home, Ryuga was also aware of some emotional “luggages” Ogerpon still possessed thanks to the lessons from his language teacher Salvatore taught in his class. It will take a long time, but Ryuga is going to be at every step with her.

‘It is true that I’m banned from Kitakami after the fight… but for all it's worth, it is better than letting the village or Kieran get close to her…’ Ryuga stares at the content smile on her cute face. ‘I’m not even sure what would happen if we didn’t meet, or I learned the truth behind the lore…’

That was true. The possibility of him being a bystander in the field trip or never being picked as a chosen student while a victimized pokemon continued suffering from afar was also a possibility. It was very funny that he never would have guessed the strange ‘masked child’ in the festival he noticed would be the start of a new bond for him.

‘But I’m glad that I did meet you…’ Ryuga thought nostalgic before gently shaking her head.

“It’s time to wake up, Ogerpon.” Ryuga said softly.

“Pon?” Ogerpon started stirring up and opens her yellow eyes with white, star-shaped pupils. “Poni! Poni!” She chirped before snuggling happily in his arms.

“Good morning to you, too,” Ryuga said, giving a gentle head rubbing. “We can’t stay in bed forever.” He tried to persuade her kindly to allow him off the bed.

Ogerpon soon got off from him as Ryuga was allowed to move from the bed before doing some stretches. The two soon headed downstairs as they saw Ryuga’s mom working in the kitchen.

“Good morning… ” Ryuga’s mother greeted kindly.

“Morning, Mom…” Ryuga greeted.

“P-Pon. Poon.” Ogerpon greeted slightly quietly.

Even though the Mask Pokemon is still reserved able wearing her mask, she is willing to make an exception for Ryuga’s mother. Her pokemon teammates are able to convince her to least face Ryuga’s mother without her masks and… that it will make Ryuga happier. That is enough reason for her least try for him.

“Good morning to you too, Ogerpon.” Ryuga’s mother added. “Breakfast will be ready soon.”

It wasn’t that long before all the residents in the house were eating breakfast together.

“Oh my…” Ryuga’s mother chuckled while looking at her Rotom Phone.

“What’s it, Mom?” Ryuga asked, slightly curious at what caught her attention.

“It looks like Pokemon Contest is trying to make its way into Paldea in the next month.” His mother informed him.

This is certainly a surprise to the young boy when he hears about the Pokemon Contest. He had seen one of the shows back in Galar, but he was more interested in Pokemon battles at a young age.

“Do you think… Ogerpon would be interested in the stage?” His mother inquired as this caught her son’s attention.

“She never seen them before, Mom.” Ryuga reminded his mother about Ogerpon’s past. But the idea of Ogerpon being on the stage in Pokemon Contest does intrigue him.

His mother was the other person Ryuga confident about his field trip in Kitakami and introduced her to Ogerpon since he wanted to be the one who told her. His mother was understandably shocked about what happened in Kitakami and willing to stand to support her son by helping Ogerpon start a new life here in Paldea.

“I know, but I believe that it will help more people to see who Ogerpon really was than depend on Kitakami’s lore.” His mother said firmly.

“Hey Ogerpon?” Ryuga asked to the grass pokemon who was just eating her breakfast.

“Pon?” Ogerpon asked, making her way to his direction.

“Do you want to try Pokemon Contest?” Asked the young boy, making Ogerpon blink before looking confused.

“Pon? Ponpon?” Ogerpon inquired, confused.

Ryuga soon got out his RotomPhone before he searched for a performance video of the Pokemon Contest. He then shows the video to her.

Ogerpon was initially confused at the first before her expression turned into awe at the end of the video.

“Pon…? Pon?” Ogerpon asked, in confusion. For the first time in her life outside of Kitakami, she had never seen a performance that intrigued her.

“That is calling a Pokemon Contest…” Ryuga answered. “It’s a lot different from normal Pokemon battles, it judges on the beauty and skills of the Pokemon rather than raw power.”

“Pon…” Ogerpon said in awe.

"So do you want to participate in one? There is going to be one appearing in Paldea soon..." Ryuga asked kindly. If Ogerpon wanted, he would have to do some research about what to do to help Ogerpon in Paldea's first Pokemon Contest.

“Pon! Pon! Pon!” Ogerpon’s eyes literally began to shine and sparkle. A look of pure happiness was on her face, and she began to hop up and down in absolute joy.

“I take that as yes,” Ryuga laughed. He just can’t imagine the shock reaction of people if they saw the Pokemon contest. Giving Ogerpon the chance to experience happiness was another way to prove that Kitakami’s lore was nothing but lies and shams.

(In Naranja Academy)

“So you are thinking of signing up to the Pokemon Contest with Ogerpon?” Arven inquired after he and Ryuga headed to his dorm when it was around lunchtime.

Sure, it will be fine if they, Penny, and Nemona hang out some time at lunch. However, that always ends up with Nemona considering challenging him in their free hours.

“Yep… I ask Ogerpon about it, and she seems to want to give it a go.” Ryuga said, “And that's why I decided to participate with Ogerpon.”

“I understand your logic behind it, but it will be alright?” Arven asked, little concerned.

“Sure, in the battle round, she will do fine. She even defeated a Slither Wing and made it look amazing... Btw I also caught it.” Ryuga said before showing a Pokeball containing the Paradox Pokemon.

“It’s not that…” Arven corrected. “I think since Ogerpon is shy she would get stage panic or something like that.”

“Relax, I have a contingency plan... my Scream Tail can cover in emergency case, if not then Luxray.” Ryuga stated with a reassuring tone.

“You know most would avoid the Area Zero and call it a nightmarish place... yet you use it as a training ground.” Arven sighed. Arven doesn't know if he should be amused or worried about how his friend is so casual about things.

“Well... it's the only place in Paldea I can train at my own pace without Nemona trying to challenge me.” Ryuga said. Nemona cannot enter Area Zero without Koraidon after all.

“True. Say, when you were in Area Zero… were there any Paradox Pokemons that similar to Walking Wake?” Arven asked. After Ryuga returned to Paldea with Ogerpon, the mysterious Paradox Pokemon that attacked his best friend resurfaced to cause havoc in a few towns in Paldea.

Ryuga helps Arven to face the Paradox Pokemon that was responsible for Mabosstiff’s past injuries, and keeps an eye out if Nemona tries to face the Paradox Pokemon (the last thing the two boys need is Nemona with a powerful raptor that resembles Johto Legendary Pokemon). However, Walking Wake wasn’t a pushover since it was boosted by Tera Water and spamming Noble Roar move that beat other trainers including Gym Leaders. Fortunately, Ryuga has a plan with Ogerpon to distract Walking Wake so Paralysis could work on the raptor-like beast and reduce the movements of Walking Wake. That is when Arven used his Pokemons to face the fearsome Paradox Pokemon before having Mabosstiff finish the battle off with a Tera Dark power-up Crunch before using the Master Ball. decided that he wouldn’t use Walking Wake until he least became more confident enough to stare eyes to eyes with the beast. And no, he isn’t going to depend on Nemona for help.

“No… I’m afraid that I don’t spot anything like Walking Wake in there.” Ryuga said, got a feeling what this is about.

It was shocking to Arven that someone like Briar, the teacher at Blueberry Academy has the original Scarlet Book, and the reason why his mother was obsessed with Paradox Pokemons from the Past. Even though they have come to terms with Sada being dead, it looks like things with Area Zero might not be over since new information brought to the table.

“Thank you for letting me know. I’m just concerned about whether things in Area Zero are finished or not… since this Briar woman has the original Scarlet book too,” Arven said, feeling stressful about this possibility.

“Yeah, I just hoped that Clavell and the League could keep Briar away from Area Zero. The way she stares at Koraidon back in Kitakami already gives me bad vibe.” Ryuga said.

“No kidding…” Arven chuckles. “So what are you going to do about costume? After all, costumes are required for the particpants,” he questioned, going into a thinking pose.

“Well, my mom knows this fashion designer from Kalos—”

(Timeskip)

“The Stars of the Paldea’s First Pokemon Contest are… Ryuga and Ogerpon!” the referee declared.

The screen shows the footage of Ogerpon dancing fabulous in rings of flame that she summoned with her cudgel and the power of Hearthflame Mask.

“After what I have heard from sources about Ogerpon… she isn’t a fearsome monster, but a lovely Pokemon with potential for beauty, speed, and cutness!” The commentator said, “I never imagined it would be on this stage that we would get to see a fabulous performance!”

The light shines upon Ryuga, who is dressed in red and orange clothes that resemble Ogerpon’s Hearthflame form, and Ogerpon standing beside him, waving their hands together at the crowds and those who are watching the Pokemon Contest from records.

Among those who were watching Pokemon Contest on the television was Carmine. The girl from Kitakami didn’t believe that Ogerpon would perform in Pokemon Contest when she saw the familiar pokemon perform in front of the stage.

“I guess you’re really the one who could make her truly happy… Ryuga,” Carmine whispered softly that her classmates weren’t hearing her.

But she also knew what this meant for her village back in Kitakami. Their fate is completely sealed. It didn’t take weeks or months… but days after Ryuga and the students of Paldea left Kitakami as the news about the Kitakami’s lore was nothing more than lies and how Ogerpon was victimized by the village was spread across the news.

People in Kitakami were frantic with shock and questioned how their ancestors allowed something like this to happen. None of the main families of the village were able to respond, making the mental state of everyone in Kitakami were broke.

That the heroes they preached were nothing more than murderers and thieves while their ancestors unknowingly abused and traumatized a pokemon who tried to avenge her loved one. The descendants of these people then end up using their lores to preach while a certain pokemon looks down at them. This makes the people of Kitakami want to throw up everything from their guts or shake in complete denial. That everything that was taught by their parents and their parents were nothing more than lies. And the fact that it took someone from outside the region to crumble the lies that they lived on.

Carmine didn’t have any feelings about it as she was allowed back to Blueberry Academy due to Director Cyrano was kind enough to help her and her family by escorting them away from Kitakami.

‘If only I could done more to stop Kieran…’ Carmine thought with her little brother… who is unconscious in the hospital.

Ryuga’s actions and words not only shatter her view about how the villagers “feel” about the truth her little brother brought…and but how unstabled her brother had become.

Carmine and her grandparents tried to convince Kieran to stop, but the little brother she once knew didn’t listen and tried to attack Ryuga with his Pokemons for stealing his ‘ogre’.

Even after pummeling every trainer in Kitakami including the infamous Kitakami Ogre Clan, Ryuga’s pokemon team didn’t break any sweat. Carmine and her grandparents can’t feel worried for Kieran when he recklessly throw his team at Ryuga before watching them being pummeled mercilessly by Ryuga’s pokemon. Carmine then tried to talk some sense into Kieran about Ogerpon following her feelings for Ryuga before Kieran tried to kill Ryuga, who was talking with Ogerpon… with a hidden knife in his belongings.

‘Is obsession with your ideal pokemon make you this mad?’ Carmine thought to herself.

But Kieran wasn’t able to reach for him when Skeledirge, Ryuga’s oldest pokemon, saw it coming and burned the knife from his hand with a small Torch song, making Kieran yelp in pain. Then it follows up with aggressive Koraidon slamming his tail against Kieran’s stomach, sending the young boy against an apple tree and rendering him completely unconscious for months.

The only reason why Ryuga’s pokemon didn’t finish off her brother for the attempted murder of their beloved trainer was because Carmine made a final plea to Ryuga to spare her brother. Ryuga accepted the plea before his homeroom teacher Jacq emerged with the students of Paldea and planned to head back to Paldea.

“Just this once, Carmine. Even if your brother doesn’t respect her rights as a living being and is a disappointed trainer to these pokemon.” Ryuga’s last words to her before following his teacher back to Paldea.

It hurts for Carmine that it was the last time she saw them. Even though she didn’t have a good opinion about outsiders entering her village before she felt a close connection with Ryuga when they were focused on repairing Ogerpon’s mask and fighting the ‘Lousy Three’ together. But at the same time, she can’t help wondering what went wrong with her brother at the same time. How and why would he try to pull a knife on someone kind of like Ryuga? What driving him to become such…a psycho?

‘Where did I go wrong? What did I do to make Kieran end up like this?’ Carmine thought depressed as she and her grandparents felt like whatever Kieran did was part of their mistake.

The reason her grandfather didn’t tell Kieran was because he didn’t feel Kieran was ready or not mature age. The reason why Carmine never tells Kieran about seeing Ogerpon for the first time is because she wants to keep him safe since it is dark already. But Kieran was too curious for his own good and eavesdropped on them when their grandfather told them the real truth. Would the alternative work anyway? Carmine can’t be certain at first before she realizes that the truth behind the village’s lore will be exposed and the negative consequences for her family.

It would also mean that her family is in complete danger as they would likely blame her family for what happened. And as Ryuga says, Ogerpon will continue to suffer in isolation if she stays in Kitakami longer. Ogerpon had only stayed in Kitakami because the humans had her masks. Now, Ogerpon has people and Pokemon in Paldea would give her a chance at a new life and happiness, she won’t want anything to do with Kitakami.

‘What am I supposed to do now?’ Carmine thought to herself.

It was long before Ryuga and Ogerpon left the interviewers behind as Ryuga was greeted by his friends.

“Good job, Bud. You and Ogerpon were really great out there.” Arven said, giving a thumbs up.

Mabosstiff gives some encouragement to Ogerpon which Ogerpon compliments back.

“Pon! Pon!” Ogerpon chirped happily in response.

“So that is what you were up to for the past month…” Penny remarked at the two.

“No es justa! Why didn’t you tell me that you were joining the Pokemon Contest?!” Nemona demands angry.

“I want to help Ogerpon be more confident in front of the crowd, I highly doubt face you number of times would work. Not to mention not enough time to prepare for Pokemon Contest if you keep challenging me to battle.” Ryuga said, making Nemona grumbles in annoyance.

“So where did you get the outfit from?” Penny asked, looking at Ryuga’s costume. “I know that it is not Atticus who made something like that.”

“A friend of my mom,” Ryuga answered. But what he didn’t mention was that mom always wanted to create outfits based on other Ogerpon’s form changes, but he stopped by just sticking with the Healthflame design.

“Well done, Master Ryuga. Ogerpon.” Director Clavell said, making his presence known to them.

“Thank you, Director. We have been practicing for a month.” Ryuga replied. “But I didn’t expect that you would be watching Pokemon Contest.” He admits honestly.

“Of course. As the Director of Naranja Academy, I was invited to be an observer of Pokemon Contest. And I’m glad that I made it to the event.” Clavell said, “You and Ogerpon made a splendid show for us and couldn’t make us at Naranja Academy more proud of our students accomplished.” He added with a smile.

Chapter Text

“I’m relieved that all of you were able to make it here,” Clavell said, looking at every teacher that was present in his office.

“Yeah, but what is the *yawn* big meeting, Clavell… wakes us up this early?” Jacqu questioned, as he was the last one who entered the Director’s office.

“Forgive me, Jacqu. This is probably the only time my associate would be available to contact.” Clavell said. “In discussion about Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti. And their strange origins.” He revealed, making the teachers’ eyes widen in shock.

“You mean they were able to catch those three?” Salvatore questioned, looking interested with his fellow teachers.

Even since the day that Clavell announced the truth behind the Kitakami and left those in shock, most feel horrified about the truth behind Kitakami. It also affected the teachers who were especially well-acquainted with young Ryuga as they never wanted Ryuga to end up exposed to the vile side of humans.

“Indeed, they did. Though those three need special approaches when it comes to studying and researching their revival until I received words about them.” Clavell stated, making the teachers listen carefully. “He should be here about now,” he said before turning his face toward the large television screen hanging not far from his desk.

“Hello, Clavell.” An old gentleman in his fifth in his lab coat greeted me with a smile. “Sorry about the appointed meeting at the time like this.”

The teachers’ eyes widen in surprise. It wasn’t a surprise since this man stood at the top of Pokemon researcher and the most well-known. This man was none other than Professor Samuel Oak of Kanto Region.

“It’s fine, Professor Oak.” Clavell replied, making the teachers look surprised at the famous professor. “You mentioned that you and your associates were finished with research about those three.”

The elder professor’s face turned serious. “That’s a correction. These are the blood samples from all three of these Pokemons.”

It wasn’t that long until the screen changed to show the pictures of the blood samples. Clavell and the teachers looked incredibly shocked as they had never seen anything so unnatural in Pokemon DNA.

“Woah… woah… what in the world…” Jacqu gawked and stared at the pink vine attached to the cells.

“What you see in these cells are heavily toxic that could alter and enchant Pokemon. But we were able to get slightly amount of trace of DNA from who they were once before.” Professor Oak revealed that each DNA was replaced with images of Poochyena, Mankey, and Vullaby.

The original forms of the Three Pokemons made the Director and teachers look completely surprised.

“Que?!” Salvatore and Saguaro exclaimed in shock.

“This is unreal… and fascinating at the same time,” Raifort said, adjusting her glasses at the three pokemon.

“Samuel, are you certain that these Pokemons were the original forms of the three?” Clavell asked, making a double-check on his associate’s research.

“To be honest, I thought that bird was from a Unfezeant due to the resemblance…” Tyme remarked sweatdropped. “But a Vullaby, really?”

“How could they be changed that much?!” Dendra the Battle Studied Teacher, exclaimed in shock. “How did a Poochyena get that buff and bipedal?” she questioned incredulous.

“The same goes for the Mankey… It is impossible for a Mankey to suddenly develop a cerebro grande...” Saguaro stated, unsettled by the unexpected news.

“I’m positive especially checking over with my connection.” Professor Oak replied firmly. “I don’t know how these pokemon end up as they are or what the reasons might be. But it is true that they are mysteriously transformed by an unknown factor that we’re unaware of now.” He added with a skeptical glance.

‘It is possible that they might have a leader…’ Clavell thought. But they can’t confirm this with Ogerpon since Ryuga confirmed that she was in too much anger when beating the ‘Loyal Three’ pokemons to death.

“Yes, I find it hard to believe these pokemon would be mutated too without reasons behind their explanation.” Hassel remarked. “The big thing was that they had died, corrected? How are they brought back to life?” he reminded grimace.

“That led to the next thing. There were readings of terailized energy coursing through their bodies. It is possible that someone emitting teralized energy into them to revive them.” Professor Oak said, making them look shocked.

“They were revived by terailize energy? That would mean someone must have gone to the lake! But who would done such a thing?” Jacqu exclaimed with shocked expression.

“I had a feeling it was something like this…” Clavell said, getting everyone’s attention. “The revival of those three so-called ‘Loyal Three’ was intended by someone while the field trip happens at the same day. They are connected.” He hypothesized, making the teachers recoil in shock.

“Are you saying that they were willing to do that while our students were there?!” Dendra demands shocked.

“Who would dare to do something dangerously?” Tyme questioned angrily.

“I believed it would be none other than Briar of Blueberry Academy,” Clavell revealed, making those looks alarmed.

“Briar? As in descendant of Heath, author of the Scarlet Book?” Raiforth questioned.

“But how could you be certain that it is her?” Jacqu asked confused.

“Because Master Ryuga told me that she was there at the lake after getting permission from the main family, she most likely obtained the sample of the lake that was infused with tera crystal embedded in there.” Clavell continued. “I had no doubt that her action is likely gaining support in order to break into Area Zero…” Even if there is no physical proof, he has no doubt about the fact that she is after Area Zero.

“Of course… Heath’s works had been discredited, and the best way for her to get revenge was to expose Area Zero.” Raiforth added her two cents to Clavell’s theory about Briar’s motivation.

“Even so, that place is too dangerous,” Clavell added grimly, as he still has memories of what happened when he and Jacqu were down there. “Whatever, she likely finds is nothing, but dangerous and would likely get our school in the crossfire.” He stated, strongly against the idea of Briar’s plan for Area Zero. After he hears about Sada’s demise in Area Zero, he vows to not allow it to happen again.

“I can see your points. There is a strong possibility that she got Blueberry Academy and Cyarno involved in her quest. What exactly do you plan on doing if they were involved, Clavell?” Professor Oak questioned.

Clavell took a deep breath especially the name Cyarno… an old friend from his past while he traveled across the regions when he was young.

“I don’t want to believe it, but after hearing what happened to Master Ryuga in the events of Kitakami… there is something is definition wrong with Blueberry Academy,” Clavell said with a frown. He did try to contact Cyarno about the incident numerous of times, but he didn’t reply to his calls as it made things more suspicious to him.

“Do you want the league to help investigate Blueberry Academy?” Hassel asked.

“No, I want the league to be vigilant for Paldea in the meantime,” Clavell replied firmly.

“Is there anything we could do to help, Director Clavell?” Saguaro replied. The same goes for other teachers who felt the sudden weight on their shoulders by the events.

“I assured you that I can-”

“Don’t give us that excuse!” Tyme snapped angrily, making Clavell flinched. “Do you think we would sit back while you trying to do everything to protect the academy on your own!?”

“Well, Ms Tyme, I—” Clavell tried to defend himself.

“Oh, spare me! Your excuses reek worse than Stunky’s stink!” Tyme retorted seriously. “Like it or not, we’re in this together and we will see it to make sure that our students are safe from whatever Briar or Blueberry might cause!”

“That is right, Miss Tyme!” Dendra agreed. “You can try to count on us!”

“But—”

“I’m sorry about this Director, but we’ll see this to the end if you don’t want us to be involved in this or not. We do this for our students.” Saguaro said. Salvatore nodded.

Clavell looked at every teacher in his office before he begrudged giving in. “Fine, you guys need to stay on guard. But I will ask you that if you know anyone who might helped us to gather information about what Blueberry Academy doing and their students.” He said quietly.

This made the teachers nod with affirm.

“That is going to be a hard challenge… but I might know a couple of people who try,” Raiforth said with a smirk.

“We’re on it, Director Clavell.” Salvatore said.

(With Ryuga)

“Hey Ryuga, were you able to hear the news about the Bloodmoon Beast attacking the village of Kitakami?” One of the Naranja Students asked.

Ryuga looks up from his RotomDex Phone at the students coming to his desk in Math class.

“Yeah, I’ve seen the news this morning,” Ryuga answered. “I didn’t expect that a Ursaluna of all things, still exist in this time.” But he didn’t admit that he laughed at the irony of some divine presence sent down retribution in the form of a Ursaluna.

“But do you think that the people of Kitakami are going to advertise the Ursaluna… like Ogerpon?” The student asked with slight concern.

“What I did for Ogerpon was for her sake,” Ryuga answered, making them look surprised. “I got a feeling that Ursaluna’s rampage on the people of Kitakami served as a divine retribution from Arceus.”

“Wait, divine retribution!?” A bespectacled fellow academy student exclaimed in surprise.

“That makes some sense… even since everyone knows about what happened, and Pokemon Contest. It does feel like something intervention on people of Kitakami after all.” A female student added.

“But seriously, did you regret missing the chance of catching it because of—”

This made Ryuga’s eyes narrow. “I would be careful of your next word, Cole. Ogerpon’s happiness is one of my priceless treasures and I won’t tolerate anyone making her miserable again.”

This made the male student gulp nervous, “S-Sorry… but don’t you regret not catching the Bloodmoon Beast?”

“Not at all. I have to let you know that Ogerpon is stronger than a Bloodmoon Beast. Do you remember those so-called ‘Loyal Three’? From my Dex App, they were poison type and Ogerpon is a Grass type. The fact that she is able to beat them mercilessly, shows that she could easily outmatch those with her type disadvantage. I won’t be surprised if she could beat the Bloodmoon Beast down with a couple of strikes of her cudgel.” Ryuga stated.

“But still… even though everyone says Ogerpon is cute, why does she need a nasty cudgel?” Cole questioned nervously.

“How dare you say that about sweet Ogerpon?!” A female student with glasses questioned sharply. “She is really amazing during the Pokemon Contest.”

“But she is creepy as yours Tinkaton with that giant hammer, Miku!”

“You are still upset about what happened to your Corviknight?!”

Ryuga soon zoomed out of their argument before going back to the previous page on his RotomPhone, but his thoughts were focused on Ursaluna.

‘I wonder if that Perrin girl knew there was a Ursaluna in Kitakami…?’

The female photographer is literally an odd person. Not to mention she had a Hisuian Growtlite that raised an eyebrow at the young boy. While it is interesting to see a living Hisuian Growlite, Ryuga isn’t that interested in that variation of Hisuian Pokemon since the dual type has the worse combination.

‘Well, I choose my own decision and going to improve things on my own… Besides I really don’t need a Hisuian Growlite to be happy,’ Ryuga thought to himself.

He soon focused on a webpage about Ursaluna especially his attention to how they could control peat.

(Afternoon)

“Please allow me to design Ogerpon’s costume!” Atticus shouted after he giving Ryuga a notebook with costume designs for Ogerpon.

It wasn’t that long after Ryuga left for class and thought about heading to Raifort’s class before Atticus came out of nowhere and offered his notebook drawing of Ogerpon costumes. It is not a surprise for him since Ogerpon’s performance in the Pokemon Contest made everyone have a positive view of her. The one who hits most would be none other than Atticus, who wants to make costumes for her.

“That is very nice, Atticus. However, I don’t think Ogerpon really needs these costumes,” Ryuga said, giving the notebook back to Atticus. ‘Not to mention most of them might make Ogerpon unable to move properly in battles… if they were used in a contest,’ he mentally added, but didn’t choose to speak out.

“But why?” Atticus questioned seriously. “Don’t you think Ogerpon has more benefit costumes that make her cuteness out if she continued participating in the Pokemon Contest!”

“No, because there are certain grace and beauty that Ogerpon has already possessed that can’t be found in costumes,” Ryuga responded truthfully and honestly.

“I think that you might need to give him a break, Atticus,” Giacomo said, as he, Eri, and Mela made their presence known.

“Fine, I will retreat for now,” Atticus said before recomposing himself. “But I promise you, Ryuga. That I will make the best costume for Ogerpon!!!” he declared with fires of passion in his eyes.

This made Ryuga and others sweatdropped at the surprised dedication of Atticus who then left the area immediately.

“Sorry about that…” Giacomo apologized awkwardly, “It’s been a while since any of us seen him fired up like when it comes to new costumes.”

“No kidding…” Ryuga agreed with Atticus’s enthusiastic about making costumes.

“I take it that you also hear about bear going around, right?” Giacomo asked. Ryuga rolled his eyes.

“A lot especially those who think I should have caught it than trying to blow up the village,” Ryuga said nonchalantly.

“Yes, I can totally see that…” Giacomo agreed with a frown.

“Well, I be enraged if you didn’t blow their village,” Mela scoffed. Even though she is still not on good terms with Ryuga, she does sympathize with Ogerpon and acknowledges his efforts to make her welcome into Paldea.

“Don’t worry, Ryuga. We don’t blame you for putting Ogerpon’s feelings in the matter.” Eri said with a reassuring tone. “And Mellie here, wanted some pointers about the fire dance Ogerpon did in the Pokemon Contest!” she added with a bright smile.

“Urk!” This made Ryuga and Giacomo blink in surprise at the unexpected face Mela was making when Eri brought something Mela didn’t want anyone to find out.

“Hey Eri! What in the world are you thinking!? T-there is no way that I will take advice from him!” Mela retorted seriously.

“But Mellie, I remember you were so impressed by the fire dance Ogerpon did in the Pokemon Contest! You have a sense of passion while watching the Pokemon Contest with us, remember?” Eri insisted. “I thought this was a perfect chance for you to approach Ryuga that you wanted to learn about Ogerpon’s fire dancing.” She strongly reasons.

“Fine!” Mela shouts in frustration before looking at Ryuga who still look shocked, “Hey, jerk! How did you ends up learning how to come with the fire dance anyway!?” she demands furious.

“I simply research old traditional dances from Johto and do it together with Ogerpon. But I also have to help Ogerpon learn how to create updraft with her fire so she could move higher into the air.” Ryuga explains.

“I see. With how nimble she is, she would be able to lift herself in the updraft while creating more fire. That is quite creative.” Mela remarked as she kept this in mind.

“Are you thinking of doing Pokemon Contest?” Ryuga asked curious. He could totally imagine Atticus participating if he chooses to do it.

“O-Of course not! I’m more of a battler than a stinky Contest Performer.” Mela retorted seriously. “But thanks anyway.” She added quietly before leaving.

(In Casseroya Lake Area)

“I know this smells weird, Skeledirge. But the peat should be liquified before we tried to solidify them,” Ryuga replied, continuing to stir a large pot with liquified peat.

“Rooah!” Skeledirge, Ryuga’s faithful pokemon stands on watch while the rest of their pokemon team are playing a soccer ball.

The ones who were playing with the soccer ball were Koraidon, Ogerpon, Glaceon, Gogoat, Luxray and Piplup. But the ones in the lead are Koriadon and Ogerpon.

Yes, Ogerpon has Koraidon out match when it comes to getting the soccer ball due to her short and nimble body build that makes her able to outwit someone like Koraidon.

While Ogerpon could be smarter and quick, Koraidon isn’t far from behind in competing with a Pokemon smaller than him. He knew how to be patient and observe with Ryuga when the young trainer started his journey across Paldea.

And he knows when it is time to pounce.

Soon Ogerpon was caught in the grasp of the red fluffy lizard before being endured to the countless licks across the face by him. His licking process knocked off the Teal Mask from her grasp. Ogerpon without her mask is completely unable to resist the strength of Koraidon.

“I think that is done,” Ryuga said before putting on his oven gloves and getting one of his cooking utensils. He carefully extracts the liquified peat and gently pours them into three iron small, square cake pans.

‘Now that I have Glaceon used Icy Wind to cool them down…’ Ryuga thought before he heard a familiar voice.

“PON! Pon!” Ryuga looks up to see Ogerpon coming to him after being covered in Koraidon’s licking.

“Don’t worry, Ogerpon.” Ryuga said before getting out his washcloth and gently removing the saliva from Koraidon’s licking from her head.

“Pon! Pon! Pon!” Ogerpon thanked him for cleaning the saliva from her head.

Unknown to Ryuga and his pokemon, they were watching by another figure that kept their presence undetected from them. Their appearance is that of a small pink, feline pokemon with big blue eyes and a long tail.

“Mew… Meeew.” The pink pokemon muttered, watching the boy and his pokemons interacting with each other. Especially, the Pokemon focused mainly on Koraidon and Ogerpon with a hint of curiosity.

But what caught the pokemon’s attention on what the boy was creating and gave a sense of recognition. It soon has an interesting idea in mind.

“Meew…” The mysterious pink pokemon chuckled mischievously.

(Timeskip)

“It looks like it’s about time…” Ryuga said, checking his Rotom Phone Time while resting underneath his red camping tent.

He soon got out of his tent and faced the swamp area of Area Five. This is probably one of the closest places Ryuga had been that had a swamp-like environment. He don’t expect anything to happen, after all, this is just an experiment to test a theory.

And accompanying him on his trip were Koraidon, Skeledirge, Baxcalibur, Gallade, his twin Ursarings Eunie and Baron, and Ogerpon. Eunie and Baron were twin Teddurisa siblings, Eunie is shiny and Baron is normal, they were left behind by their parents and were scavengers for food until they tried to steal from Ryuga’s picnic during his early journey and took them to become strong Ursarings under his wings.

Ryuga did tell them about a theory about evolving them into Ursaluna that intrigued the twin Ursarings, and informed them the possibility that it might not work. They end up volunteering for this experiment to see if it was possible for them to obtain the long-lost form related to the Teddurisa line since Ryuga showed them images of the Bloodmoon Beast’s existence.

“Raah?” Skeledirge asked, stirring up from her sleeping to the presence of her partner got out of his tent. It wasn’t that long until every pokemon on his team heard him coming out of the tent and got up.

“It’s almost time,” Ryuga replied before he got out a solidified peat block from his extra bag.

“Ursa?” Baron asked, as he was the first one to approach Ryuga.

“Here, you go…” Ryuga said, as he carefully gave the peat block to Baron to hold careful in his claw-like hands.

He was about to give the next peat block to Eunie before an unexpected fog rolled across the campsite and Baron let out an unusual roar into the air.

“What the!?” Ryuga exclaimed surprised as he and every pokemon watch with unexpected surprise.

Baron the Ursaring soon glowed in bright light as his body began to transform into quadrupedal and enlarged with spikes on the back before their eyes. The light soon faded to reveal a new pokemon in front of them. The new being was a dark brown bearlike pokemon with a gray pelt around his back, paws, and round tail. The front paws have five claws each while the back paws have three claws. His face has a light-yellow circle resembling a full moon on the forehead, two gray eyebrows resembling clouds, and a light yellow snout that contains a small, black nose and sharp canine teeth.

“No way… It works?!” Ryuga gasped in astonishment. He originally thought that it was not going to work, but he never anticipated it working at the very moment.

Even his pokemon were amazed by the new transformation of their fellow pokemon especially Eunie who looked surprised at her sibling.

“Ursa?” Eunie asked curious and surprised.

Before Baron could respond to his sister, the newly evolved pokemon suddenly felt something off before his eyes twitching hard and becoming feral as he unleashed a furious roar into the air.

Baron soon made a charge at Ryuga with relentless killing intention. But Skeledirge got in the way and unleashed full-power Hyper Voice, making the newly evolved Ursaluna stagger backward before Gallade used Leaf Blades to knock him across the field.

Ryuga got out of his shock as he realized that his new evolved pokemon went berserker due to the new power that he was unfamiliar with.

“Baxcalibur, Ice Beam now!” Ryuga shouts seriously.

Baxcalibur unleashed a powerful ray of ice at the newly evolved Baron to freeze him in solid ice to keep him in check.

“Ursu…” Eunie said with a sorrowful expression.

“I’m sorry about what happened, Eunie.” Ryuga apologized. He never had anticipated something like this to happen, but he made sure nothing bad happened to Baron.

Ogerpon comes to the shiny Ursaring and gives her sympathy for what happened.

It wasn’t that long until they heard cracks in the ice as Baron the new Ursaluna broke out of his icy prison. This made everyone on guard as Baron the Ursaluna let out a feral roar with a feral expression on his face. The Ursaluna soon had orange energy gathering in his mouth as Ryuga reacted quickly.

“Baxcalibur, Ice Beam! Skeledirge, Torch Song!” The young boy commands as both Skeledirge and Baxcalibur unleash their attacks to repel the Hyper Beam that was aiming for them.

The attacks collided with each other to create a small explosion in the area. But the new Ursaluna still moving and charged at them before Eunie tackled her brother aside.

“Ursa! Ursa!” Eunie said, trying to talk some sense into her feral brother.

“URRA!” Baron roared before knocking Eunie back from him and sending her a few feet back.

“Gallade, used Close Combat on Baron!” Ryuga shouts as the Blade Pokemon charges forward to intercept Baron.

Baron noticed Gallade and moved out of the way before making one of his arms glow as the two pokemon engaged in close quarter with each other. Gallade was knocked back by the overwhelming power of Baron’s claw fist into his gut.

Baron soon charged once again, but Eunie intervened with a shoulder tackle against her brother.

“Eunie, are you alright?” Ryuga asked.

“Ursa!” Eunie grunted with an affirmative while keeping an eye on her brother.

Baron the Ursaluna let out a roar before charging once again and Ryuga chose his next command.

“Eunie, rapid Ice Punches now!” Ryuga shouted serious as the shiny Ursaring unleashed rapid Ice Punches with her fists against Baron to knock him back.

“RAAA!” The feral Ursaluna tried to get up once again before Ogerpon charged in with her cudgel.

“POON!” Ogerpon strikes the back of his head with a less lethal force and knocks Baron unconscious to the ground.

“Baron, are you alright?!” Ryuga asked as he and the rest of his pokemon came to the new Ursaluna. Even though some of the Pokemons were on guard.

It wasn’t that long until the Ursaluna’s eyes opened slowly and they were no longer feral, but filled with mere confusion and panic. “Ursa? Ursaa?” he asked in confusion.

“Don’t worry, you’re alright now,” Ryuga stated in a reassuring tone. “The power is brand new to you, Baron. But I’m certain that we will find a way to overcome this issue.”

‘I probably not going to tell anyone about this yet…’ Ryuga thought, deeply concerned about the knowledge of his Baron evolved into a living, breathing Ursaluna. After seeing how much attention he got after introducing Ogerpon, he decided to keep Baron’s evolution into Ursaluna a secret for now. 

There are still some complications with the evolution and he doesn’t want to cause too much attention for Baron, who isn’t used to his new form yet.

Chapter Text

Blueberry Academy, the sister school to Naranja Academy in the Unova Region, was in complete chaos due to being a target for the press. Teachers and students were hounded for answers as their academy was involved in a joint field trip to the Kitakami region. The fact that one of their own students, Kieran, attempted to backstab a Naranja student with a knife caused panic at Blueberry Academy.

As teachers and the chairman were brought in for questioning by the local authorities in an attempt to save face from public outrage, the atmosphere at Blueberry Academy became even more chaotic due to the news of what happened in Kitakami.

“I can’t believe that I’m saying this, but Kieran went too far…” One of the students grumbled angrily.

“Yeah, doesn’t he know that it's very stupid to pull a knife against another trainer? Sure, he may feel entitled to Ogerpon, but he should know that it will get him killed by Pokémon who are fiercely loyal to their trainer.” A male Blueberry student pointed out coldly and logically.

“I didn’t think that I would see Ogerpon for real until Ryuga showed up in that Pokémon Contest,” a female student in a Blueberry Academy uniform interjected. “It is just horrible that the people of Kitakami and Kieran see Ogerpon as an object, but I’m relieved that Ryuga got her away from them and gave her happiness,” she added.

The mood of the conversation soon shifted to a more positive tone when Ryuga’s name was mentioned with higher regard. Even though Briar and Carmine never told them about what happen, the news about what happened in Kitakami was brought forth by Director Clavell of Naranja Academy, who exposed the world to the truth. It bring a chaotic impact to the students of Blueberry Academy.

“Ryuga is pretty cool; that guy and his Pokémon are willing to see Kitakami burned to the ground for what they did to Ogerpon.” A student said with a Raichu.

It is quite common to heard about Champions of Region being heroes who defended their regions against Evil Team, but Ryuga break the common tradition when it comes to facing views of Kitakami had on Ogerpon.

“Not only is he a Champion of Paldea, but he also goes to Pokémon Contests with Ogerpon to tell the whole world about her.” A male student said, petting his Blitzle.

“I especially like Ryuga telling people that we don’t need the title of a hero in order to help someone or get people to listen; just being by their side is good enough,” a student said, feeling inspired by those words. “With how much Ogerpon trusts him, it shows why Ryuga won her heart over because he just stayed by her side and didn’t need to do anything else to impress her like Kieran did.”

“Yeah, I won’t mind having a chance to fight against him as long as it doesn’t involve pissing him off.” A student said with a Vibrava hovering nearby.

Unknown to them, the Elite Fours of the Blueberry Academy had their own discussion about the chaos that was going on in their academy.

“I never imagined things would be this chaotic…” Drayton groaned, resting his head on the table.

“This is unbelievable… Why didn’t Miss Blair tell us anything about this?” Lacey of the Blueberry Academy’s Elite Four, questioned sternly, looking over the security camera showing protestors and newsreporters at the door.

“I can’t believed it either… Not only the people in Kitakami have stupid problems, but also Kieran pulled a knife in a Pokemon Battle. You don’t pull something like that in a Pokemon Battle!” Crispin of the Blueberry Academy’s Elite Four, replied, sitting in his seat.

“Yeah… I never know that Kieran had something like that,” Drayton of the Elite Four said, “It’s really unusual that Miss Blair and Carmine kept this from us.” He added, resting his head on the table.

“I supposed that Miss Blair failed to anticpate Ryuga’s desire to help Ogerpon make him unmatched against the entire world. It is so great that it make him very unpredictable,” Amary of the Blueberry Academy said stoic and robotic. “The same goes for Kieran. His obession with Ogerpon, makes him do the unthinkable in a Pokemon Battle…” she added quietly.

“There is something I wondered about… Ryuga,” Drayton said, getting their attention, “He has a variant of Magneton and Larvesta… What region do you think they come from?” he asked, curious and concerned.

This made other Elite Fours look confused and shrugged.

“True, but... are those really just variants? I’ve seen them… and they seems too wild,” Lacey said, wary at the same time.

The more they think about it, the Elite Fours of Blueberry Academy realized that there might be more to the mysterious champion known as Ryuga and his pokemons.

Kieran couldn’t help but grit his teeth hard at what he saw on the television in his hospital room. He was watching Ryuga and Ogerpon together in the Pokemon Contest.

‘How could he stand there with my Ogre?’

He was hospitalized after his failed attempt to get his Ogre back.

‘How could he stand there with my Ogre?’

While Ryuga and Ogerpon are performing on the stage.

‘How could he stand there with my Ogre?’

How dared Ryuga make Ogerpon look happy like that!?

‘How could he stand there with my Ogre?’

How could Ryuga simply stand there like a hero while he was in bed? He knew the Ogre longer than him! Why? It is not fair.

‘How could he stand there with my Ogre?’

It should have been him standing with the Ogre, not Ryuga! Ryuga was the one who came along and destroyed everything he tried to do! Ryuga is the true villain here!

“It’s not fair! It should’ve been me, not him!” Kieran cried out in frustration and angry. “It’s not fair!”

“Kieran, that is enough,” his grandmother said, coming to his side of the bed and putting her hand on his shoulder. Unknown to them, Kieran’s grandfather was behind.

“Why are you siding with him!?” Kieran snapped angrily.

“And why do you think that I’m siding with him?” His grandmother questioned sharply. “You are the one who charged recklessly against him with a knife! Don’t you know how reckless that stunt you pulled was, young man? Do you know how much you worried me?” she asked.

This made Kieran do something unexpected— he laughed with deranged expression.

“You worried about me…? You should have done that after you and Grandfather took us in!” Kieran laughed madly.

These words just make the Grandmother shed in tears, knowing she have failed. What they have done?

But Kieran wasn’t having any of it.

“You and Grandfather did nothing but give compliments to Carmine! What about me? Don’t I get any rights?” Kieran exclaimed. “Why was I always been treated as an outcast while Carmine being treated special? Why does she get stronger while I am still being held back?”

“Is this why Ryuga is stronger than me? He is like Carmine, right?! Because he was loved by others, right! Then why doesn’t Ogre accept my love!” Kieran exclaimed.

“You… You call that love, Kieran? Loving someone isn’t treating them as objects or possessing them! What you did would only just push them away from you!” Her grandmother asked, feeling intense stress at the very moment.

“But I loved her, but she won’t choose me!” Kieran refused to listen, feeling justified of his actions.

“ENOUGH!” His grandmother was reaching a breaking point. “Do you know that Carmine blamed herself for what happened on that day? She admits all the things she has done, but she still cared about you! She was the one who pleaded with him to spare your life!”

“Like that would do any good!” Kieran growls, still refusing to budge.

“Kieran, please wait…” His grandfather tried to intervene, but the grandmother have more things to say.

“I don’t blame you… all of those foolish nonsense about Ogre and three heroes… I’m just disappointed that I didn’t do enough to help raised you.” The grandmother said tearfully and turning away from Kieran before leaving.

“Dear wait!” Kieran’s grandfather followed her from behind.

Kieran turns his glares back at the television screen and directly at Ryuga.

“I will make you paid… Ryuga,” Kieran growls hatefully, as his eyes turned flicker violet for a moment.

In the Paldea region, Ryuga is currently surveilling an area with his friend Penny.

“H-hey Ryuga, I want to thank you for taking the time to invite me over,” Penny said awkwardly, with her friend beside her at the moment

“It’s fine. Besides, you really need some fresh air,” Ryuga said, still keeping an eye out for the wild Eevee popping up, “And I knew that you can’t simply resist wild Eevee spawn of things.” He added, knowing that she loved Eevee of all Pokémon. Scratch that, Penny adored them.

This was enough to get Penny to have a good night's sleep over staying up late at night to play online games. But she never anticipated that Ryuga, of all people, invited her to go out hunting for shiny Eevee, something that she had failed to capture in the past.

But Ryuga has a plan for it, which involved the herba mystica that he harvested from the black tera raid crystals that he participated in with his Pokémon. This was to increases the chance further for the shiny odds to happen on this day.

“True, the last time I tried this… I wasn’t able to find any of them,” Penny admits sheeply. “So please don’t try to get an high expectation.” She adviced, from her personal experience of the last time she tried to find Shiny Eevees.

“No problem.” Ryuga said.

The two spent the rest of the day watching for the wild Eevees running around. But their priority was mainly finding shiny eevees. Both Ryuga and Penny were able to find few and successfully captured them until the sun about to set.

“Penny, do you want to go back now?” Ryuga asked, after checking the status of his recent shiny Eevee with his RotomPhone.

“I want to stay… a little bit longer,” Penny answered hesitately. “There… is something that I wanted to… talk about,” she responded hesitantly.

“Sure. What is it?” Ryuga asked, sitting beside her.

Penny held her hands towards her chest, struggling to find the right words to express what she wanted to say. Eventually she was able to calm down and start speaking again.

“I-I wanted to know what happens… to that Paradox Suicune since I know that you and Arven had been keeping quiet after the rampage ceased,” Penny said, mustering every ounce of courage in her to ask the question that aches her chest. “I know there is a chance that you guys captured it, or it might have escaped.” Penny knows that she shouldn’t be envious of the friendship Ryuga and Arven have, she can’t help but feeling insecure after the adventure in Area Zero where she wasn’t able to do anything useful.

Even though she did tell Ryuga about this one. He reassured her that he didn’t think badly of her especially with accounts from her friends in Team Stars mentioned the same. But Penny still can’t help but want to pry about what happened.

“Penny, even though I did help, it was mostly Arven’s battle. Whether he used the Paradox Pokemon or not, it’s up to him,” Ryuga revealed calmly.

“I see…” Penny said, “I just wish that you and Arven… had asked for my help.” She added.

Ryuga let out a sigh. “I won’t deny that I have my reason of involved. If there is a Paradox Suicine, then other two Paradox Entei and Paradox Raikou are not far behind,” Ryuga revealed, getting further shock from his friend.

“Do you really have an obsession with the danger after what happened to us?” Penny exclaimed. Even though she didn’t mean to raised her voice like that, but she just can’t help realized what Ryuga have been doing lately.

“Even if I don’t want to, I want answers about their appearance connected to the legendary beasts of Johto. How is it possible for them to be ancestors of Entei, Suciune, and Raikou? Did Ho-Oh really create the legendary beasts based on them?” Ryuga answered. Not to mention the possiblity of them fused together, might be a threat to Paldea.

Penny grappled with Ryuga’s reasons of pursuing the remaining Paradox Beasts after the existence of Walking Wake. In some ways, she does see why he is looking for the others.

“I still don’t like this a bit, but I get your points…” Penny said reluctantly, "Just promise me that you can call me ahead if you end up encountering another one,” she added seriously.

Ryuga let out a sigh. “Yeah, that is fine. But promise me that you won’t do anything reckless yourself. There is still a lot we don’t know here,” He said, making Penny flustered a bit and she looks down.

“I know… but thanks,” Penny said, flustered.

“Oh yeah,” Ryuga remembered something important, “I forgot to mention this. About summer, I will-” he informed her.

(A few days later)

“Hey guys, have you seen Ryuga?” Nemona asked, coming to the table where Penny and Arven were eating lunch at the moment. “I was going to ask him for a match, but he didn’t respond.” She explained.

“Yeah… about that, Prez,” Arven said, “Ryuga told me that he won’t be on campsite for the summer. He is back in Galar to visit his family.” He added.

 “What!?” Nemona exclaimed in shock. “W-w-why didn’t he tell me?” she asked, feeling left out.

“W-Well, with you, you might make it difficult for him and his mother to finish packing up.” Penny added, awkwardly. But she felt grateful that Ryuga is honestly with her when she brought out her question.

“Hey guys, you don’t want to missed this! Ryuga is having an exhibition match with Galar Champion Tom on the big screen!” An Naranja Student exclaimed excited, getting every one’s attention immediately.

“Wait, really?”

This got the three friends of Ryuga’s attention and made their way with other Naranja Students to faces the large screen where they saw Ryuga with an giant Ogerpon that went under the famous Dynamax transformation that occurs only in the Galar Region.

In the opposite side was the Galar Champion Tom, with his Urshifu- Single Strike, glowing red and white in Gigantamax state.

“Huh? He already got a Dynamax Brace and is fighting the Galar Champion in an exhibition match!” Nemona gawked in surprised.

Penny isn’t surprised by it. After all, Ryuga is a Galarian like her and attuned to the Galar style of Pokemon battle when it comes to Dynamax.

Meanwhile the Paldea Champion and the Galar Champion smirked before they calling out their next attacks at the same time.

“G-Max One Blow!”

“Max Overgrowth!”

Urshifu unleashed his right fist with fury, but Ogerpon defended herself with massive seeds to block the incoming attack, causing a big explosion that can be seen across the field. Ogerpon then charged forward and engaged in battle with Urshifu in an epic battle.

Chapter Text

Ryuga sat on his beach chair in the northern Province of the Paldea Region, looking at pictures on his Rotom Phone. He glanced at images of his family, his Pokémon, and the participants of the Star Tournament in the Galar Region. 'It's still hard to believe that Leon, of all people, replaced Chairman Rose after losing to Tom and started the Star Tournament. It's hard to believe all the things that have happened since I came to Paldea. It's nice to finally fight the guy who overthrew the invincible Leon, and I finally get a Dynamax Bracelet…!' he thought, smirking.

Then, he turned toward the news about himself and Champion Tom humbling and apologizing to the public for destroying a wild Snorlax's stomach. The two Champions were experimenting with Gigantamix and Herba Mystica together while cooking Curry when the wild Snorlax unexpectedly took the experimental dish. Even though they received a warning from the governments of Galar, everyone learned an important lesson about the hazardous danger of mixing Gigantamix and Herba Mystica from the destruction of the Snorlax's stomach. It might beat any dishes made in Galar, but it comes at the absurd and surreal cost of destroying the stomach.

"No time like the present…" Ryuga said, getting up from his beach chair and making his way to the picnic table that he had set up, preparing some Galarian Curry.

(In Penny's dorm)

Penny was deeply engrossed in binge-watching an anime series that she had recorded after her last night tuning the security system of the Pokémon League. Just as the show reached its climax, her Rotom phone in the shape of an Eevee started ringing, rudely interrupting her viewing pleasure.

"What?" Penny exclaimed in frustration. "I was getting to the good part!"

"Penny! Is this a bad time?" Ryuga's voice came through with static, leaving Penny visibly shocked.

"Ryuga? Are you alright?" Penny's anger gave way to immediate concern.

"I was trying to cook curry before encountering a Paradox Entei…" Ryuga's words widened Penny's eyes before the Rotom phone displayed the image.

The picture of Paradox Entei bore similarities to the actual Entei, but the Paradox Pokémon was a leonine-ceratopsia hybrid with mastiff qualities. It had red claws on the front legs, three green spike lines on both back legs, and a faceplate shaped like fins or a four-sided star with a golden ceratopsian-shaped skull headpiece.

"Holy Zacian!" Penny exclaimed, losing her composure.

Soon, an unusual roar echoed in the background before Ryuga tried to command one of his Pokémon.

"Ryuga, is everything alright?" Penny questioned, growing increasingly worried.

"Compared to Walking Wake… this one is more defensive and has a fire version of Spike Shield, but it caused burns," Ryuga explained.

"Ryuga, where are you right now?" Penny asked.

"I'm at Cass—" Before Ryuga could reveal what happened, the Rotom Phone call abruptly ended, and Penny was left with a dreadful cracking sound.

"Ryuga! Ryuga! Can you hear me!?" Penny's concern escalated.

But there was no response, and a sense of dread enveloped the young girl in her dorm room. Penny swiftly got up, grabbed her Pokéballs and Eevee backpack, heading out of her dorm room urgently.

'Ryuga is likely in Casseroya Lake,' Penny thought seriously, calling a Flying Taxi.

It wasn't long before Penny rushed down the staircase and made her way through the front door of the academy.

"Penny! Where are you off to?" Eri questioned, hurrying to her friend immediately.

"Eri… I need to get to Ryuga quickly," Penny said, grappling with the urgency to reach Ryuga. "I think… he is in the most difficult fight for his life," she said with concern.

Though she was still uncertain about telling Eri and others about the Paradox Pokémon, this seemed like an emergency exception.

Eri looked at Penny before nodding. "I don't get the whole picture, but if Ryuga needs help, I will go with you too," she said, resolved.

"Thanks… Eri," Penny said. "I'll fill you in on the way."

(In Casseroya Lake)

It wasn't long until Penny and Eri arrived, witnessing the woods around Casseroya Lake engulfed in flames. Wild Pokémon were fleeing in panic.

"Don't tell me that Ryuga is fighting something causing this much damage…" Eri gasped in disbelief.

Penny didn't say anything as she tried to figure out where Ryuga would likely be at the moment.

It wasn't long until the Taxi Driver informed the two girls that he couldn't get them close to the fire. Eri reassured that it was fine, but they needed to get somewhere safe while they addressed the fire.

They soon spotted some Deerlings trapped under a large tree as the fire approached.

"Vaporeon, I need you to douse the fire with Hydro Pump!" Penny shouted, tossing out one of her Pokéballs.

The Bubble Jet Pokémon emerged, releasing a powerful surge of water over the fires. Eri lifted the fallen tree with her strength as the Deerlings escaped.

As they approached the source of the struggle, they couldn't help but grapple with surprise at what they saw.

Ryuga, with burned marks and a tired Koriadon with a Dragon Tera crown, faced the Paradox Entei, both sides appearing bruised. It was evident that they had been locked in a long battle before Penny and Eri arrived.

The Paradox Entei charged forward with dragon energy toward Ryuga and Koriadon.

"… Tera Blast now!" Ryuga shouted seriously.

Koriadon roared, firing a purple flame of energy to engage the Paradox Pokémon, resulting in a powerful collision and explosion that knocked both Koriadon and the Paradox Entei back.

Ryuga immediately grabbed an Ultra Ball, attempting to capture the Paradox Pokémon, but it evaded the ball and fled from the area.

"Wait…!" Ryuga tried to run after it, but he collapsed on his knee from exhaustion.

"Ryuga! Are you alright?" Penny asked, rushing to her friend's side.

"Hey Penny… I'm sorry that I have to ruin your day off," Ryuga greeted weakly.

"I'm a bit upset, but I'm upset that you nearly had to fight for your life against that crazy thing…!" Penny countered seriously.

"Ryuga, we need to get you treated back at the academy," Eri said, helping Ryuga get up.

"Sure, I don't think that I can chase after that thing in my current condition…" Ryuga said before giving Penny Koriadon's Pokéball. "Penny, please return Koriadon to his Pokéball." He requested.

"Sure thing," Penny said, turning her attention toward the tired-out red lizard Pokémon and returning him to his Pokéball.

With that, all of them headed back to Naranja Academy.

(In Naranja Academy)

Penny and Eri waited anxiously outside while Nurse Miriam did her best to tend to the bruises Ryuga and his Pokémon team had incurred.

It wasn't long before Arven and Nemona approached them.

"What in the world happened? Why is Ryuga in there?" Nemona questioned, her eyes reflecting concern.

"Ryuga engaged in a battle with another Paradox Pokémon… but it resembled Entei," Penny explained, showing them the picture on her Rotom Phone that Ryuga had sent before the incident.

Nemona and Arven looked completely shocked at the image of another Paradox Pokémon, one that resembled Entei.

“I knew there was more than Walking Wake…” Arven muttered, clenching his fists tightly, a mixture of frustration and determination in his expression.

“Did this thing actually hurt him?” Nemona asked, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and disbelief.

"No, from what we’ve seen… Ryuga and his Pokémon gave their all to weaken the Pokémon, but the Entei double fled in the process,” Eri said, still shaken from the sight of the battle. She couldn't wrap her mind around the fact that a Paradox Pokémon could challenge someone like Ryuga, whom she had always thought was stronger than her.

“I guess that means Penny told you about Paradox Pokémon,” Arven said, acknowledging Eri’s presence.

Eri nodded, her expression serious and concerned.

“I did consider that. I was worried that something bad happened to Ryuga…” Penny admitted, a hint of guilt in her eyes.

“That’s fine,” Arven said solemnly, his gaze reflecting understanding.

“I’m going to warn others about the Entei double. We can’t allow something like that to roam around Paldea,” Eri declared, getting up from her chair.

"Thank you, Eri," Penny said solemnly, gratitude evident in her eyes.

It didn’t take long for Eri to find the rest of the Team Stars Bosses in the Team Segin's Hideout, each immersed in their studies. Giacomo stood at the front of the camp, his brow furrowed with concern.

“Hey Eri, I see that you made it,” Giacomo greeted.

“Sorry, I’m late,” Eri apologized with a touch of unease before casting her eyes over everyone. “…I have grave news. Ryuga is injured from a battle with a possibly dangerous Pokémon that neither Penny nor I have ever seen before,” she announced, her tone laced with a somber weight.

This revelation sent shockwaves through the Team Stars Bosses, causing them to halt their studies and fixate on Eri with wide-eyed disbelief. The mere idea of Ryuga, the one who had triumphed over all of them, being injured was an unprecedented blow. What kind of Pokémon could pose such a formidable challenge to someone like Ryuga?

Before anyone could articulate their thoughts, the distant rumble of thunder echoed through the Hideout.

The Team Stars Bosses hurriedly approached the wall, their expressions shifting from disbelief to shock.

What met their gaze was a colossal entity approaching Team Segin's Hideout, defying the boundaries of reality. Towering over the hill, it bore thunder clouds shrouding its countenance, an ominous spectacle that should not exist in their world.

After Goughing Fire fled from Ryuga, Raging Bolt emerged to confront the inhabitants of Team Segin's Hideout. The Bosses of Team Star now find themselves entangled in a battle not just for victory, but for the well-being of those they hold dear.

Omake: The Accidental Mixed Interview!

The Galar newsroom was abuzz with excitement as Ryuga and Tom, champions of Paldea and Galar respectively, found themselves in the midst of the most uneventful interview in Galar's history. The news reporter, clearly caught off guard, couldn't believe what he was hearing.

“So let me get this straight… you two decided to mix Gigantamix and Herba Mystica in a curry?” The news reporter asked, his eyebrows reaching new heights of disbelief.

Ryuga, feeling a bit awkward, scratched the back of his head. "Well, it was originally just a harmless test to see how Herba Mystica would react in traditional Galarian curry."

Tom chimed in, "But then we got too curious about the flavor explosion that might happen if we mixed both of them. It smelled so good, and we were just about to try it when a Snorlax from across the Motostoke Riverbank got wind of it and went crazy over the aroma."

The news reporter raised an eyebrow. "Wait, a Snorlax went crazy over your curry?"

Tom nodded, embarrassed. "Yep, it couldn't resist. But little did we know, it somehow destroyed the Snorlax's stomach in the process."

The news reporter looked over his notes, trying to make sense of the absurdity. "So, your experiment ended up blowing up a Snorlax's stomach?"

Ryuga nodded solemnly. "We honestly didn't anticipate that mixing these two ingredients would create something so good it could literally blow up a stomach."

Turning to the former Champion, now Chairman of Galar, the news reporter asked, "And what do you have to say about this, Chairman Leon?"

Leon, ever composed, nodded solemnly. "Indeed, I never imagined that mixing ingredients from different regions could lead to such a gastric catastrophe. But let this be a lesson – too much of a good thing can have explosive consequences. It's a culinary cautionary tale for all trainers out there."

And thus concluded the most uneventful yet strangely entertaining interview in Galar's history, leaving the region to ponder the dangers of mixing Gigantamix and Herba Mystica in their curries.

Chapter Text

The Bosses of Team Star couldn't believe what they were seeing approaching the wall of Segin's Hideout.

“What in the world?!” Mela exclaimed in shock, a sentiment shared by every member of Team Star's leadership. “Is that a bloody Raikou?”

“I don’t think Raikou is supposed to have a long neck…” Giacomo remarked, his frown deepening as he grew more concerned about its proximity to their headquarters.

“There's no doubt about it; this is similar to the one Ryuga faced,” Eri said, eliciting surprise from the other bosses. “He faced a Pokémon that resembles Entei.”

“To think something like that could be involved with him is unbelievable…” Ortega muttered under his breath.

“As much as I want to know what Ryuga is involved in, we have bigger things to deal with,” Mela said, her tone serious.

“I agree. We can't allow such a beast to harm our comrades,” Atticus said with unwavering determination.

“Then let's do it. We will show this Raikou rip-off the power of Team Star!” Giacomo declared with resolve.

It wasn’t long before the bosses of Team Star emerged from the walls of Segin Hideout, summoning their Pokémon to battle the Raging Bolt.

In Naranja Academy, Director Clavell sat in his seat, listening patiently as Penny recounted the incident that led Ryuga into Miriam’s care.

“So that's what led you and Miss Eri to carry Master Ryuga back to the academy…” Director Clavell responded, glancing at Arven, Penny, and Nemona.

“Yeah, that's what happened,” Penny answered with a nod.

“Thank you for telling me what happened, Miss Penny. I'm relieved that Master Ryuga survived the encounter with the Paradox Entei…” Clavell said calmly.

“Aren’t you angry, sir?” Arven asked uncertainly.

“About what happened with the Paradox Suicune? I have some reservations about you and Master Ryuga facing such a dangerous Paradox Pokémon, but I'm more concerned about you making it out alive,” Clavell stated sternly. “With the appearance of the Paradox Entei… there is no doubt that a Paradox Raikou is not far behind,” he added grimly.

“Y-yeah… and Buddy thinks they might combine…” Arven said, holding up the copy of the Scarlet Book he borrowed from the library. “Into this crazy thing…” Arven pointed to the fusion beast, a fusion of Entei, Suicune, and Raikou.

The room shuddered at the very idea that these Paradox beasts could merge. They couldn't grasp the unimaginable power that the fusion beast might possess.

“Wait, are you serious? They can all combine into one Pokémon?!” Nemona asked, bewildered and shocked.

“It's possible, since there have been legendaries with similar abilities, like the Tao Trio in Unova and the Light Trio in Alola,” Penny remarked warily. “But with these Paradox Pokémon, do you think they follow the same rules as the Tao Trio and Light Trio, Director Clavell?” she questioned.

“I can't be sure. But if they do combine, it will lead to an unforeseen disaster in Paldea. I will immediately make contact to keep an open eye for Paradox Entei,” Clavell stated firmly. After hearing everything, there was no way he would turn away from a potential threat that might endanger Paldea.

Penny, Nemona, and Arven weren't against the idea, considering the Paradox Entei was on the loose and they needed all the help they could get to prevent it from regaining its full strength.

“If there is nothing else, then I won’t hold you guys back from watching over Master Ryuga,” Clavell said.

(In Segin Hideout)

The menacing roar of Raging Bolt reverberated outside the damaged wall of the Segin Hideout, marking the epic clash between Eri and Ortega of Team Star Bosses against the Paradox Raikou known as Raging Bolt.

The battle had been raging for hours, with the respective bosses of Team Star fighting to defend against the might of Raging Bolt. Now, Eri and Ortega stood as the last line of defense, their fellow bosses taken back by Segin Team Star members to recover.

“Eri! How is Annihilape holding up?” Ortega inquired anxiously. Standing beside Ortega was his Hatterne in Fairy Tera state, which helped keep paralysis from Raging Bolt’s Thunder Clap attack to a minimum.

“Almost out of Hyper Potions, but Raging Fist is at full power,” Eri responded grimly, her Annihilape appearing to be on its last legs. “We need to hold on until the burn that Mela’s Arcanine left on that thing takes it down!”

Despite its imposing size, parts of Raging Bolt's body glowed with a red hue from the Burn Status condition, slowing its movements significantly.

“RAAAH!” Raging Bolt opened its large mouth and fired purple energy at them once more.

But Hatterne intercepted the Dragon Pulse Attack, easily repelling it due to the Fairy type advantage. However, Raging Bolt wasn’t finished; it swung its head recklessly against Hatterne with dragon energy pulses.

“Annihilape, go! Rage Fist!” Eri shouted urgently.

Annihilape roared furiously, channeling its rage into one of its fists, which glowed purple before delivering a powerful blow to Raging Bolt. The Paradox Raikou, distracted and frustrated, was knocked hard to the ground.

Eri and Ortega held their breath as they watched Raging Bolt crash to the ground. But their relief was short-lived as Raging Bolt got back up, unleashing multiple orange meteors into the sky.

“No…” Eri whispered in disbelief.

“Blast it! Hatterne is already too exhausted!” Ortega cursed. Was this the end for them and Team Stars?

Just as hope seemed lost against the fury of the Draco Meteors, an orb of pink energy suddenly appeared, countering most of the meteors. A powerful hurricane from a Pokémon resembling a Mega Salamence slashed away those that passed through. Riding on the Salamence was Ryuga, accompanied by a Misdreavus-like Pokémon with hair resembling arms, known as Flutter Mane.

“Ryuga, is that you?!” Eri questioned in surprise. Wasn’t Ryuga supposed to be in Nurse Miriam’s care after fighting Goughing Fire?

Ryuga paid no attention to their surprise, focused on Roaring Moon and Flutter Mane. Both of his Paradox Pokémon trembled with fear upon seeing Raging Bolt, a testament to Ryuga's ability to understand their emotions.

“Stand your ground and don’t look away!” Ryuga snapped, his voice breaking through their fear.

Just as Raging Bolt closed in on them, it unexpectedly tripped, giving Ryuga the chance to throw an Ultra Ball. With a mighty hurl from Roaring Moon, the ball headed straight for the wounded Paradox Pokémon.

Unable to evade, Raging Bolt was captured inside the Ultra Ball. Everyone watched with anticipation as the ball shook, including Ryuga's Paradox Pokémon, nervously awaiting the outcome.

After a tense moment, the shaking ceased, indicating Raging Bolt's successful capture. Ryuga retrieved the Ultra Ball and watched as it digitally transferred into his PC system within his Rotom Phone.

“That’s one down,” Ryuga muttered, relieved. With Walking Wake and Raging Bolt secured, only Goughing Fire remained.

“Ryuga!” Ortega and Eri approached him.

“Is everyone alright?” Ryuga inquired, concerned for the Team Star bosses.

“Mellies and the others are down after holding off Raging Bolt, and we’ve nearly exhausted our recovery items,” Eri explained solemnly.

Ryuga felt sympathetic towards the others, but also a sense of respect for their resilience against such a formidable opponent. It showed that the leaders of Team Star could truly hold their own against the fearsome Paradox Pokémon.

“Most importantly, what are you doing here? Weren’t you supposed to be in bed…” Ortega questioned, noticing Ryuga's bandages.

“Let's just say I overheard rumors of an unusual storm and decided to investigate. I left Koraidon behind since he's still recovering,” Ryuga explained.

“I don’t know whether to thank you or call you crazy…” Ortega remarked quietly.

“As grateful as I am for your help, Ryuga, I appreciate it more if you didn’t push yourself too hard,” Eri said sternly.

As they spoke, they heard something fast approaching. They turned to see Arven, Penny, and Nemona riding on a large blue raptor Paradox Pokémon resembling Suicune.

“You’ve got to be kidding me…” Ortega exclaimed in disbelief, seeing yet another Paradox Legendary.

Arven made Walking Wake kneel down, and Penny, looking angry, was the first to dismount.

“What were you thinking, sneaking out like that?!” Penny scolded Ryuga, her anger palpable.

As Eri and Ortega watched the scolding unfold, they couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that their reinforcements had arrived, despite the circumstances.

(In Naranja Academy)

“That is basically what happened,” Arven explained to Clavell about the events at the Segin Hideout.

“I see. It is fortunate that Eri and the others were able to hold out long enough for Master Ryuga’s unexpected arrival. However, I will certainly ensure that doctors give them a check-up before allowing them to assume their duties,” Clavell said. “And Master Ryuga, I hope that you don’t attempt to run off recklessly like that again,” he stated firmly.

“Yeah, yeah, I hear…” Ryuga responded after being scolded by his friends on their way back to the Academy. “I am going to focus on resting and training until Goughing Fire shows up again,” he added.

“Why do you call it Goughing Fire?” Nemona asked, curious.

“It's not my decision, but something about the Pokedex program seems to give Paradox Pokemons weird names,” Ryuga explained. “And Paradox Raikou is known as Raging Bolt,” he added nonchalantly.

“That is true.” Arven agreed. “The only one who didn’t get unusual name is the brutal.”

“I was wondering if I can borrow the Paradox Raikou for the time being,” Clavell continued, grabbing the trio’s attention. “We still don’t know how these Paradox Pokemon would merge together, but I think it's best to study one of them for the time being and gather more information,” he explained.

“I see…” Ryuga said, rubbing his chin.

“Do you need Walking Wake as well?” Arven inquired.

“For the time being, I think we should keep the two Paradox beasts from interacting with each other until we learn a bit more about their characteristics and origins. But I will keep your offer in mind, Master Arven,” Clavell replied.

“Yeah, with their types, they might end up in some sort of conflict…” Penny said, understanding the logic behind Clavell’s decision.

“I supposed that is fine.” Ryuga shrugged. “With how long the Raging Bolt’s neck… it will be really hard to explain where in the world I got a long-neck Raikou.” He said before getting out his Rotom Phone.

Chapter Text

A few days had passed since Ryuga helped Team Stars with their battle against Raging Bolt in the Segin Base. It wasn’t long before Director Clavell made an announcement to the local authorities about a dangerous Pokémon that heavily resembled the legendary Johto Pokémon, Entei. This Pokémon had caused a wildfire at Casseroya Lake. Clavell warned them to proceed with complete caution and to avoid engaging in Pokémon battles unless absolutely necessary.

This announcement raised concerns among the staff at Naranja Academy. They wondered what else Director Clavell might know about the mysterious Pokémon resembling Entei and how it might be related to the legendary Pokémon from Johto.

On the grounds of Naranja Academy, Clavell stood in front of persistent reporters, refusing to comment despite their questioning.

“No comment,” Clavell asserted, holding firm against the reporters' persistence.

Meanwhile, discussions among the residents of Paldea continued, fueled by eyewitness accounts of the mysterious Pokémon resembling Entei across the region. Gym Leader Iono addressed the topic during one of her streams, expressing her and the other Gym Leaders' collective opinion. They urged everyone to remain calm until more information became available. The situation was eventually defused after announcements from the Paldea Authorities and the Pokémon League, reassuring everyone of their safety.

Ryuga lay on his bed in his dorm, another day passing since he had sneaked out against the Nurse’s orders. This time, he complied with resting, allowing his stressful mind to unwind after capturing Raging Bolt. He had transferred the Paradox Raikou to Clavell’s care.

Now, his thoughts were consumed by Paradox Entei, also known as Gouging Fire, and when it might reappear. Despite Clavell's warning against reckless engagement, Ryuga doubted its effectiveness. Many had already noticed the striking resemblance between Gouging Fire and Entei. While Ryuga trusted that the Pokémon League and Gym Leaders would do their best to protect people and Pokémon, he knew only a few possessed type advantages against Gouging Fire.

"Out of all the Elite Fours and Gym Leaders, the only ones with the best type advantages against Gouging Fire are Rika and Hassal, with their Ground and Dragon coverages," Ryuga mused. "While Grusha and Ryme might have the field advantage by living in cold places."

He considered suggesting old man Kofu for his water Pokémon, but Cascarrafa's proximity to the Asado Desert could inadvertently boost Gouging Fire's power with its Photosynthesis ability. Ryuga dismissed the idea of Poppy, a nine-year-old, facing Gouging Fire, despite her powerful Steel Pokémon and Elite Four status.

Another challenge was Gouging Fire's ability to superheat its fur, both for protection and offense. It often overwhelmed Ryuga's Pokémon, leaving them with debilitating burns.

“I need to diminish the fire with weather moves…” Ryuga muttered. Considering the intense sunlight, he theorized that blocking the sun with a sandstorm, rain dance, or hail could mitigate the damage from Gouging Fire's fire moves.

"But who should face it?" Ryuga pondered. Fairy moves had proven ineffective against Gouging Fire, as it had shrugged off Azumarill's Play Rough. He ruled out Skeledirge and Ogerpon due to their potential to exacerbate the flames or suffer harm in battle.

Instead of struggling to find a solution, Ryuga considered Gouging Fire's tendency to erect barriers against direct attacks.

“What if I bring Pokémon with moves like Earthquake?” Ryuga speculated. Ground and Rock Pokémon could deliver powerful blows without direct contact, reducing the risk of burns. However, he couldn't rely solely on them, knowing Gouging Fire would anticipate such tactics.

Wherever Gouging Fire lurked, Ryuga was determined to defeat it and prove himself worthy of its power. He was determined to uncover the connection between these paradoxical versions of the legendary beasts from the Johto Region.

In Nurse Miraim’s office, Penny recounted her involvement in the Area Zero fiasco to the rest of the Team Star Bosses.

“Afterward, we got out of there…” Penny finished her story.

Mela, Giacomo, Ortega, and Atticus were left stunned and disbelieving that their boss and friend had experienced something beyond their own comprehension. After what had happened with Raging Bolt, Penny felt it was best to explain to her friends what had occurred.

“That is a lot…” Mela remarked, expressing her surprise along with the other Bosses of Team Star.

“Yeah, to think there are prehistoric Pokémon and a time machine underneath Area Zero,” Giacomo remarked.

“Yeah, but I didn’t do much in Area Zero…” Penny admitted, weakly.

“It’s not your fault, Penny! There’s no way you could have expected Sada to have a way to shut off Pokéballs in there,” Ortega retorted. “That Sada woman is the biggest cheat I’ve ever heard of.”

The other Team Star Bosses in the nursing room nodded in agreement.

“If it were the real Sada woman, she would keep throwing out endless Paradox Pokémon and might put you in danger, Lady Penny,” Atticus said pragmatically.

“I guess you’re right…” Penny said, “But I wish I had been there with you guys when facing that Paradox Pokémon.” She should have been there to help, especially since she had Sylveon, which might have been effective against Raging Bolt.

“Penny, are we friends?” Mela asked, catching Penny by surprise.

“Y-Yeah…” Penny said, unsure where this was going.

“It’s true that we didn’t know what to expect when that behemoth came, but I don’t regret fighting against it, even though Ryuga saved us in the end,” Mela admitted. “I always felt like there was something going on, but I’m relieved that it happened now.” She spoke with rare honesty, leaving Penny bewildered.

“H-How could you say something like that?” Penny asked, bewildered.

“Yeah… you aren’t the only one who felt helpless and understands what you went through,” Giacomo said. It might be hard to believe that something in Paldea could challenge Ryuga’s Pokémon battling prowess, but understanding his friend’s struggles with helplessness was important.

“It’s still hard to believe Ryuga had difficulty against such a thing, despite being one of the champion-rank trainers, but this incident also reminded us that Ryuga is also a fellow human being,” Atticus said calmly.

It wasn’t long before Ortega spoke up. “True… and I can say that this explains why you’re fixated on Ryuga,” Ortega said, making Penny flustered. The others in the room looked surprised at Ortega’s observation before chuckling.

“T-There is nothing going on between me and Ryuga!” Penny denied, flustered.

“Is that so?” Ortega asked. “I mean, you were very aggressive when scolding him—”

“Ortega, I will hack your grades and make you get Fs if you bring that up!” Penny retorted angrily, making Ortega shut up immediately.

“Take it easy, Penny. There’s no need for something that extreme…” Giacomo said, trying to diffuse the conflict before it escalated.

In another part of Naranja Academy, Clavell and Geeta examined the Paradox Raikou, Raging Bolt. The Paradox Beast of Lightning was still contained within its Ultra Ball but was being observed through a virtual simulator device.

“I still find it hard to believe…” Geeta said. “To think there are actually paradox versions of the Johto legendary trio.”

“Indeed,” Clavell agreed. “It raises questions about whether Ho-Oh truly created the Legendary Beasts of the Johto region, or if Ho-Oh knew of Paradox Beasts and simply based them on their ancestral counterparts.”

“I can tell you that the Johto governments are going to have a literal field day. The existence of the Paradox Trios would clash with their beliefs about Ho-Oh and the Johto Beasts,” Geeta warned with a cold stare. “It will disrupt the balance of power in the world if these Paradox Pokémon can really merge into one.” The idea of these beasts or the Johto Beasts merging into one was both fearful and fascinating.

“I understand,” Clavell said. “That’s why we need to ensure the safety of people and Pokémon in the Paldea region until Master Ryuga recovers. If anyone has a chance of victory against Gouging Fire, it would be none other than him. And this will help us further determine the truths and lies behind the Johto Beasts’ connection.”

“I won’t deny that,” Geeta said, looking over Raging Bolt’s appearance. “As tempting as the idea of facing the Paradox Pokémon that even someone like Ryuga had trouble with is, it’s also dangerous. I understand that certain boundaries need to be in place. I don’t want Poppy engaged in battle with Paradox Pokémon that gave Ryuga difficulty.” She stated politely. When she heard that there was something giving someone like Ryuga trouble, she felt her battle urge boil, but she restrained herself, ensuring Poppy wouldn’t have to put herself at risk of facing Gouging Fire.

It wasn’t long until Geeta’s Rotom phone rang, and the chairwoman picked it up to read the message. “There is a meeting I need to attend with the authorities. It looks like our fiery friend did try to attack Cortondo and fled,” Geeta said. “I wish you luck on your research and the results,” she said before walking out of the front door.

After watching Geeta leave, Clavell looked back at the virtual simulator of Raging Bolt and continued to find out more about the Paradox Pokémon’s origin.

It wasn’t long until Arven came to visit Ryuga at his dorm with lunches. He was surprised to see his friend writing notes while looking over his Rotom Dex.

“It looks like you’re busy with planning…” Arven said. He was secretly relieved that Ryuga chose to stay in his dorm for the meantime than sneak out again. Of course, Ryuga was the only one he knew who used Area Zero to escape the constant challenges by Nemona.

“Yeah, I think maybe I need to go with Pokémon with Earthquakes or ones that work in the rain against the Paradox Entei… Maybe I should go with a mixed team?” Ryuga said before noticing the lunch that Arven brought for him. “Thanks,” he said before starting to eat.

Arven soon settled himself down at the opposite end of the table and ate his own lunch.

“… If there is a chance that I encounter it, do you think I need Walking Wake… for it?” Arven questioned, concerned. He knew that his Bud might try to fight Gouging Fire, but Arven wanted to know his chances against it if he crossed paths with it.

Ryuga paused from eating lunch. “I wouldn’t want to risk using Walking Wake against it. Your Pokémon team is solid against Titan Pokémon, including Great Tusk. You have three Pokémon that know Earthquake and Earth Power, right? They have a greater chance of avoiding physical contact with Paradox Entei if it tries to set up that ‘fire protect’,” he pointed out. Even though the idea of Arven facing Gouging Fire on his own scared Ryuga a bit, he knew Arven could take care of himself.

This made Arven think deeply. “That’s true… and that fire protect thing works just like a normal Protect move, right? So it means that it is a priority move,” Arven replied. “Wouldn’t Cloyster’s Rock Blast also work… since it’s a rock type move?” he asked.

“Yeah, but it also has a 10% chance of missing if one of the shots fails. Gouging Fire’s fire protect also blocks special attacks, since I tried to have Espeon fire Psybeam against it,” Ryuga pointed out.

“But what about Walking Wake?”

“It might need to watch out for Outrage and Dragon Rush. Those are the only two Dragon moves that I saw it using,” Ryuga said.

“Hmm… Are you going to use Great Tusk? I know it is also a Paradox Pokémon too,” Arven said. He knew that Ryuga had the former Quaking Earth Titan after catching it out of curiosity.

“I’m considering it,” Ryuga said. Besides the former Quaking Earth Titan, there was also the idea of Baron the Ursaluna in mind. If Baron ended up getting burned, it would activate the ability known as Guts, which increased the further physical attack stats. It was also a risky solution if one of his Pokémon got burned, but he knew that he might need every chance to win against the dangerous Gouging Fire.

“I'm not sure if I want to get Ogerpon involved in this or not,” Ryuga added honestly, as a sense of understanding showed in Arven’s eyes.

“I understand,” Arven said.

“What are you going to do if Nemona and Penny try to be part of the fight?” Arven asked, making Ryuga narrow his eyebrows.

“I’m not sure,” Ryuga said, “What do you think?”

“Wait, doesn’t Nemona have a Goodra?” Arven pointed out, his brow furrowing with concern. “Won’t that count good advantage against Gouging Fire”

“Yeah, she does,” Ryuga acknowledged. “Goodra has powerful moves like Muddy Water, but it lacks Rain Dance. Without that, Gouging Fire still might overpowered it due to it’s Photosynthesis?”

Arven nodded thoughtfully, contemplating the implications. “So, what’s your plan if they decide to join the fight?”

Ryuga sighed, running a hand through his hair as he considered the possibilities. “Honestly, I’m not sure. Nemona has always been battle hungry, and Penny… well, she’s fiercely protective of her Eevee team. Out of all pokemons, her Sylveon is her strongest fighter."

Arven’s expression turned grave as he processed Ryuga’s words. “And you’re worried about them?”

“Of course I am,” Ryuga admitted, his voice tinged with concern. “But I also know they’re both strong trainers.”

Arven nodded, a flicker of admiration crossing his features. “Yeah, they’re both formidable in their own ways. And if worse comes to worst, I’ll be there to back them up.” Arven said.

“Thanks, Arvens.” Ryuga said.

OMAKE: What in world was Sada thinking?

Arven let out a sigh of annoyance as he looked over possibilities with his buddy for confronting Gouging Fire.

“What’s up?” Ryuga asked, observing his friend's demeanor.

“Hey, Bud, I was wondering what my mom thought when she brought the paradox versions of Suicune, Entei, and Raikou into this time,” Arven replied, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Shouldn’t she have had any concerns when she saw the Paradox versions of the Johto Legendary Beasts?” he questioned. After all, anyone would freak out upon seeing Legendary Pokémon, or Paradox versions of them!

“I can’t really say. I’m surprised that her A.I. never mentioned anything about them, nor were there any special protocols about them in her lab,” Ryuga shrugged.

“Yeah, I understand her obsession with bringing the Paradox Pokémon, but I just wish she had more concerns when it comes to those three specifically, or kept them locked up in Master Balls!” Arven groaned.

“There might even be a chance that they escaped before she could do anything about them,” Ryuga said. “It’s too bad that my psychic Pokémon can't translate their thoughts,” he added, lost in thought.

“Wait, you tried that?” Arven asked, slightly surprised and intrigued.

“I did ask Arya, my Gardevoir, to read a few Paradox Pokémon's minds, but she ended up leaving after a few minutes because their thoughts were too wild and feral for her to translate,” Ryuga explained.

“I also know that they are feral, but I shouldn’t be surprised by their thought patterns being different from ours and those of Pokémon alike,” Arven said, contemplating the situation.

Chapter Text

Ryuga was catching his breath after a mock Pokémon battle with Professor Hassel in the open field outside Levinca.

“That was a great match, Professor Hassel,” Ryuga commented.

The first thing he did after recovering from his burned injuries was sneak off to visit his teacher, Hassel, for training. Yes, it might make Nemona upset, but Ryuga was adamant about avoiding any battles with someone like her. It helped that Hassel was an Elite Four specializing in Dragon Types; he could help Ryuga get back in shape for his upcoming rematch with Gouging Fire. The training with Hassel was intense and challenging, but it helped Ryuga not become too dependent on Ice and Fairy types to counter Dragon-type Pokémon.

“Of course, it’s a teacher’s job to help their students get back in shape, young Ryuga,” Hassel stated with a smile.

Not long after, the two set up a picnic area where they healed their Pokémon and ate some sandwiches. It wasn’t long before Hassel spoke up first.

“Young Ryuga, I know this might be out of the blue—are you going to seek anyone out to help you fight against that thing?” Hassel asked, showing concern for his student.

Even though Ryuga had become a Champion, Hassel still felt concerned for his student’s well-being, as any teacher would. When he heard that Ryuga was under Nurse Miriam's care, Hassel almost lost all composure and started crying nonstop.

Ryuga sensed his teacher’s concern about what happened. His mother, too, had shown concern despite being a former strong trainer herself.

“It depends... but I'm thinking about contacting you and Rika, if you guys are available,” Ryuga answered. “But I also recommend getting some fireproof clothes. The first time I fought against it, most of my stuff nearly got burned to a crisp,” he added resentfully. He had no intention of ever repeating that mistake again.

“That is understandable,” Professor Hassel nodded. “Do you think this thing has a connection with the Johto Beasts? I've heard debates about whether this Pokémon resembling Entei has any connection with them. I have some doubts about it,” he questioned uncertainly.

“It's hard to say. But the only real way to find out is to talk with Ho-Oh... but it's not like Ho-Oh would ever come to Paldea, right?” Ryuga asked. “There was already one sighting resembling Suicune around Paldea, but neither Ho-Oh nor the Johto Beasts made their appearance known, right?” he pointed out the Walking Wake's first appearance on Paldea's surface. ‘The same goes for Raging Bolt and Gouging Fire... Ho-Oh and the Johto Beasts didn’t show up,’ he mentally added.

“That makes sense,” Hassel said. “The only thing I want to make sure to take care of yourself, young Ryuga. I don’t think either me or the teacher staff want to see you end up in Nurse Miriam’s office again,” he said seriously and with concern.

“Well, I can’t say if I can fulfill that promise... but I will at least try to be cautious since I know how Gouging Fire fights and try not to get too many burns,” Ryuga stated solemnly.

Hassel nodded with contentment, sensing his student’s genuine and honesty in his words.

“That’s fine enough, young Ryuga,” Hassel said as the two continued their picnic break before resuming training.

While Ryuga was training with Hassel, another battle was occurring simultaneously outside Naranja Academy. Arven was currently engaged in a Pokémon battle against Nemona, who looked extremely tired and stressed out.

“Why aren’t you pulling out your Paradox Suicune!?” Nemona questioned angrily, still struggling to keep her balance.

“Considering what Penny told me, do I look like I need him to beat some sense into you when you're like this, Prez?” Arven retorted seriously.

It was obvious why the battle-hungry champion Nemona would also be in a tiresome state, and the same went for her Pokémon. Nemona felt like her place as Ryuga’s 'rival' was threatened by the existence of Paradox Entei, and Ryuga escaped once again after recovering from his injuries.

“Shut up… I’m not going to take that from you!” Nemona snapped in frustration. “Pawmot… use Close Combat!”

“Toedscruel… Earth Power, now!” Arven shouted.

The Woodear Pokémon soon slammed her vine-like legs to the ground, and the shockwave sent the exhausted Pawmot into the air, crashing hard to the ground.

“Pawmot… Get up!” Nemona shouted seriously. “Get up!”

However, Pawmot remained completely unconscious despite Nemona’s persistent yelling.

“There, your last Pokémon is completely knocked out,” Arven stated. “It’s time for you to give it a rest,” he said seriously.

“I won’t! I can still fight…! I’m a Champion and—”

“Toedscruel, Spore,” Arven’s Toedscruel released powders, causing Nemona to fall asleep before collapsing to the ground.

It wasn’t long before Arven pulled out his Rotom Phone and speed-dialed Paldea’s emergency service number.

“Hello, this is Arven of Naranja Academy. I would like a taxi carrier for my friend, Class President Nemona, who has been out training nonstop at night with her Pokémon, please,” Arven reported the situation and requested assistance in getting her back to the Academy.

“Understood, we will retrieve you and Nemona as soon as possible,” the responder on the other end of the Rotom Phone said.

Arven nodded before looking down at the sleeping Nemona and her injuries. Even though Arven felt a bit bad about putting her to sleep, it was probably the best option to deal with someone like Nemona. The young man thanked Toedscruel for her help and arranged for medical aid for Nemona at that moment.

(With Ryuga)

“Pon! Pon! Pon!” Ogerpon scolded, looking rather upset with Ryuga at the moment.

Ryuga, on the other hand, was dealing with Ogerpon after leaving her in the Pokémon Storage system since Gouging Fire’s first appearance. There was no doubt that the Mask Pokémon had already heard what happened from other Pokémon in the storage system.

“Okay… I’m fine! Sorry for not having you out while I was resting…” Ryuga tried to calm Ogerpon, who felt neglected for not being called out to help him against Gouging Fire. Most of his Pokémon might understand, but he knew that his relationship with Ogerpon would be different. He carefully wrapped his arms around the small Pokémon and gently apologized for making her worry so much.

“I’m sorry… I won’t do something like that again, okay?” he apologized solemnly. “After we deal with the Entei-wannabe, how about we go to the beach and relax?” he offered genuinely.

This was enough to get Ogerpon to stop crying and calm down, looking at him hesitantly. “P-pon?” she asked, wanting to be certain.

Ryuga nodded.

“Pon! Pon! Pon~! Pon~!” Ogerpon said happily. This made Ryuga smile before he took out her Cornerstone Mask.

“For that to happen, I want you to be ready for what comes,” Ryuga explained.

Ogerpon nodded before accepting her Cornerstone Mask, and her green cloak-like body turned gray. Soon, Ogerpon got off Ryuga’s arms, allowing him to stand up.

“We’re ready, Professor Hassel!” Ryuga said.

“Right, let us continue training, Young Ryuga…” Hassel said, tossing out one of his Poké Balls. “Go, Dragonite!”

“Raaaawr!” The Dragon Pokémon let out a loud roar as it materialized onto the field.

“Dragonite, Dragon Rush!” Hassel commanded.

“Ogerpon, dodge and use Ivy Cudgel!” Ryuga commanded simultaneously.

Dragonite accelerated forward as Ogerpon leaped away and focused the power of the stones. It wasn’t long before Dragonite returned, meeting Ogerpon’s rock-powered Ivy Cudgel forcefully.

(Few days later)

Ryuga and Arven were seen riding on Koriadon and Walking Wake through the North Providence of Paldea, following Walking Wake’s senses.

While Ryuga was focused on his own training with Hassel, Arven was helping Clavell examine Walking Wake and Raging Bolt’s possible connection. When Arven and Clavell let them out of their Poké Balls, the two dragons would have gone into a furious confrontation if they weren’t immediately put back into their Poké Balls. This led Arven to use Walking Wake’s senses to lead them to where Gouging Fire might be located.

“I was expecting a burned-down forest…” Arven said, looking around the area. “You don’t think it might be more careful after the recent attacks on the cities, Bud?” he asked warily.

“There is no doubt… with how quiet the place is, with a lack of wild Pokémon,” Ryuga said. “Though I’m relieved that Eri’s squad isn’t in the crossfire.”

“You did mention that their hideout is close by, right?” Arven asked. Ryuga nodded.

As they continued traveling, it wasn’t long before they noticed Paradox Suicune’s eyes turning feral and letting out a furious roar, catching the two trainers’ attention.

“Giaaas!” Ryuga’s Koriadon growled at the same time.

Soon, both Koriadon and Walking Wake moved out of the way as an incoming energy draconic blast targeted them.

“There is no doubt about it…” Arven said suddenly.

“We found it…” Ryuga said.

Emerging from the woods was none other than Gouging Fire. The Paradox Pokémon glared at the newcomers, but mainly focused on Ryuga and Koriadon as if it were aware that this revenge match was imminent.

Ryuga could feel the same thing after he finished typing a message on his Rotom Phone and selected one of his Poké Balls.

“Go, Baron!” It wasn’t long before Baron the Ursaluna materialized out of the Poké Ball.

“URSSSSS!” The Peat Pokémon let out a furious roar, its eyes locking with Gouging Fire’s, hungry for combat against the fiery Paradox Pokémon.

Omake: Interview with Iono!

"Ello, 'ello, hola! Ciao and bonjour! It's time for the Iono Zone, everybody!" Iono greeted energetically to the camera. “And it’s time for us to interview our first Pokémon Contest performer, Ryuga! Yayy!”

“O-oh, hey everyone!” Ryuga greeted awkwardly, just coming out of the shop to get some ingredients for a sandwich. He wasn’t expecting Iono to come see him for an interview.

“So, Ryuga… how is it being a Pokémon Contest performer?” Iono questioned.

“It’s different from what I originally thought when I was younger,” Ryuga answered honestly. “Besides, it helps clear up misconceptions about Ogerpon,” he added.

Iono nodded in understanding. “Yeah, like Detective Pikachu says, ‘it's a bolt of brilliance!’” she said. “Not only that, but you also have fans who want to know how you helped sweet Ogerpon overcome her shyness! So, how did you do it, Ryuga?” she asked.

“That’s a secret, Iono,” Ryuga answered. He knew he shouldn’t mention training in Area Zero that helped Ogerpon. “Even if you battled me for it, I still wouldn’t tell you,” he added, signaling that he intended to keep it private.

Iono couldn’t help but pout at Ryuga’s refusal to give away his secret, even if anyone battled for it. “That is sad… but there’s another thing your fans are hoping you can answer,” Iono said, becoming serious. “What would you have done if the people of Kitakami had started a witch hunt for Ogerpon instead of trying to sugercoating her?” she questioned.

“Hmm… That’s an interesting thought,” Ryuga admitted for the first time. “I can imagine… it being very messy,” he hummed.

(In alternative universe)

In the fateful event of the Teal Mask in Kitakami turning dark when Kieran revealed the true story his family had kept hidden, it resulted in one of the darkest events for Ryuga and his classmates from the Paldea Region. Instead of accepting the truth as Kieran had hoped, the villagers of Mossui Town began a witch hunt for those associated with Ogerpon.

Of course, Ryuga and his Pokémon team stood up to the villagers of Mossui Town with the aid of his Naranja classmates and Professor Jacq, who rescued the Naranja students from the villagers attempting to execute them.

“Who would have thought that we would get to see an actual Ursaluna?” one of the Naranja students questioned, feeling awkward.

“That is something you don’t see every day…” another Naranja student remarked.

Due to their battle against the Mossui villagers who were out for a witch hunt, it unexpectedly caused a strange mutated Ursaluna known as the Blood Moon Beast to emerge. Professor Jacq theorized that this might be a Ursaluna that survived from the Hisui and somehow made its way into the forest of Kitakami. Ryuga and his peers from Naranja Academy watched with absurdity as the Blood Moon Beast wrecked the entire Mossui Town and consumed their food, forcing the villagers to ‘reconsider’ their idea of a witch hunt for Ogerpon and pleading for help from the Naranja Academy students.

Ryuga was the one who opposed it when the villagers brought it up, since he had no compassion for the ruined town. All of this happens because Kieran want to clear Ogerpon’s name without thinking about the consequence that his and Carmine’s grandfather warned. The memory of Carmine's lifeless body flashed before his eyes, a stark reminder of the consequences of blind loyalty.

“You think you have the right to ask for help after trying to kill us?” Ryuga scoffed seriously, making the villagers flinch, realizing they had no way to defend their actions now. “It’s too late to apologize now. You wanted a monster for your village, now you've got one…” He added, turning around with Ogerpon to leave the villagers of the ruined town.

Beside him, Ogerpon squeezed his hand tightly, offering silent comfort and solidarity. Despite the chaos and destruction around them, she remained a steadfast presence.

“Ryuga, are you alright?” Professor Jacq asked, concerned for his student who dealt with the most from the ‘witch hunt’.

“Yeah… I think I might need some time away from Pokémon battles,” Ryuga said. It still hurt that he was forced to witness Carmine being killed by the villagers she lived with, completely catching him and Ogerpon off guard. ‘All of this happened because Kieran spoke without considering the consequences…’ he thought, holding Ogerpon’s hand tightly.

Jacq nodded. “Don’t worry, we will make sure something like this never happens again,” he stated, firm determined.

Ryuga nodded, a steely determination settling in his heart. He couldn't change the past, couldn't undo the harm that had been done, but he could ensure that Ogerpon would never again be subjected to such cruelty.

He then turned to Ogerpon, who was waiting for his response. “Let’s head back. Paldea is much nicer than a place like this,” he said gently. Ogerpon nodded.

And so, the group from Naranja Academy left the ruined town known as Mossui behind. Unbeknownst to everyone, a dark purple entity emerged from the dead body of Kieran with sinister yellow eyes.

Chapter Text

"URSSSSS!" The Peat Pokémon let out a furious roar, its eyes locking with Gouging Fire’s, hungry for combat against the fiery Paradox Pokémon.

Gouging Fire released a blue dragon-shaped energy that enveloped its body, moving toward the Peat Pokémon.

"Stop it with Earth Power!" Ryuga shouted, his voice filled with urgency.

Baron briefly flashed with yellow energy and slammed his fist into the ground, creating glowing gold cracks that traveled toward Gouging Fire, interrupting the Dragon Rush. This sent Gouging Fire rolling across the ground.

"Now, High Horsepower!" Ryuga commanded.

Baron stood on his hind legs as his body became enveloped in an orange aura. He charged at Gouging Fire, who was on the ground.

Gouging Fire regained its senses, forcing its fur to become intensely hot, and its large horn glowed as it intercepted Baron’s High Horsepower.

"Is this that barrier…?" Arven questioned in shock, looking back at Ryuga, who appeared serious.

"Yeah, the fire 'Protect' whenever that Paradox feels really in danger," Ryuga answered affirmatively. He saw Baron get up from the ground despite the burn status appearing as a red aura gathered around the Ursaluna.

"Now Guts is activated…" he wondered before spotting Gouging Fire taking a deep breath. "Baron, use Earthquake!" he shouted.

The Ursaluna, glowing with red radiation, let out a roar, unleashing a seismic wave in all directions. Both Arven and Ryuga had their Ride Pokémon leap away to avoid being caught in the earthquake that knocked Gouging Fire back.

"Now, High Horsepower again!" Ryuga shouted.

Baron glowed with an orange aura again and charged at the Paradox Entei. But Gouging Fire moved out of the way at the last minute, trying to distance itself from Baron’s attack.

At the same time, Gouging Fire glowed brightly, creating a mix of smog and fire to cover the area around it and Baron. The Ursaluna let out a painful cry when struck by Lava Plume, sending it backward.

When Gouging Fire was about to unleash a Fire Blast, Ryuga immediately returned Baron to the Poké Ball.

"Hydro Steam!" Arven shouted as the Paradox Suicune countered Gouging Fire’s Fire Blast with an equally powerful boiling-hot stream of water, negating the attack.

"Standby, Great Tusk!" Ryuga shouted, throwing an Ultra Ball into the air.

The Ultra Ball opened to reveal the Paradox version of Donphan, who landed on the ground, ready to face the Paradox Entei.

Gouging Fire opened its mouth, gathering fire for another Fire Blast.

"Intercept it with Rollout!" Ryuga shouted.

Great Tusk charged at Gouging Fire, curling into a ball and rolling with incredible speed. Before Gouging Fire could unleash the attack, Great Tusk smacked Gouging Fire’s head, sending the fireball into the sky. Great Tusk circled around, hitting Gouging Fire from another angle, prompting Gouging Fire to release another Lava Plume.

"Dragon Pulse!" Arven shouted as Walking Wake fired a powerful dragon energy beam, hitting Gouging Fire and sending it crashing into a couple of trees.

Ryuga reached for his Ultra Ball, wondering if this was the right time to finally put an end to Gouging Fire.

When it seemed Paradox Entei was going to fall, it started glowing, and suddenly it seemed as if it had not been in a harsh battle against two powerful trainers. While still damaged, it looked much better and ready to keep fighting.

"W-what happened? Why is it getting better?" Arven stammered at the sudden recovery of Paradox Entei.

"Wait…" Ryuga muttered, looking at how Gouging Fire recovered after taking all those hits. His eyes widened in horror. "Shit! That’s Morning Sun!"

"M-Morning Sun?" Arven asked nervously.

"It can heal itself with the Sun!" Ryuga explained with horror.

And in the sky... the sun was shining with no clouds to cover it.

Has this battle turned into one determined by attributes? Ryuga thought seriously.

“W-What do we do?” Arven asked hesitantly.

“Even if it does know Morning Sun, it is still restrained by the limits of PP,” Ryuga replied with serious expression.

Soon, Gouging Fire unleashed a powerful Dragon Rush attack, knocking Great Tusk back, hitting a nearby tree hard and rendering it unconscious. Ryuga had no choice but to return Great Tusk to its Poké Ball before getting out the next one. Gouging Fire turned its attention towards them before Arven immediately tossed out a Poké Ball.

In a flash, Arven’s Garganacl appeared, holding back Gouging Fire’s stampede.

"Now, Salt Cure!" Arven shouted seriously.

Garganacl unleashed white salts at Gouging Fire, forcing it to move back and flinch as the salt got into its eyes.

"Garchomp, Dragon Claw!" Ryuga shouted as the large mach Pokémon appeared, assisting Garganacl by slashing with green dragon energy claws.

Gouging Fire regained its sight and heated its fur to endure the next attack from Garchomp. Garchomp recoiled from the burn inflicted by Gouging Fire’s attack. Rather than groan in pain, the mach Pokémon immediately pulled out a Rawst Berry from nowhere and ate it to cure his burn.

"Hey, Little Bud, can you have Garchomp distract that Entei wannabe by flying around?" Arven asked, partially keeping an eye on the battle.

"I think we can do that…" Ryuga said with a nod. "Garchomp, let's show Entei-wannabe how good your flying is!" he commanded.

"RAA!" Garchomp growled affirmatively before gliding through the air, avoiding any attacks from Gouging Fire, making the Paradox Entei more frustrated.

"Earthquake!" Arven shouted seriously.

It wasn’t long before the floor beneath Gouging Fire’s feet exploded, causing the Paradox Entei to stagger back.

"Dragon Rush while airborne!" Ryuga shouted.

Garchomp let out a roar as he was surrounded by draconic energy and made a sharp dive toward Gouging Fire. Gouging Fire barely moved out of the way in time as Garchomp turned around and flew back at it again.

"Earthquake again!" Arven shouted as Garganacl slammed his fists hard into the ground, unleashing seismic quakes toward Gouging Fire, catching it completely off-guard. This allowed Garchomp to ram Gouging Fire with a fast Dragon Rush, sending Gouging Fire flying a few feet back.

Gouging Fire got back up and healed itself with Morning Sun, looking more vicious before firing off another Fire Blast.

"Hydro Steam!" Arven shouted as Walking Wake unleashed another powerful hot stream of water, clashing with Gouging Fire’s Fire Blast.

Gouging Fire gritted its fangs, trying to increase the heat from its fur until a Clodsire came out, covered in water, and slammed into it, breaking its focus.

"Noivern, Boomburst!" A familiar voice shouted as a Noivern fired a powerful blast of white sound waves at Gouging Fire, forcing it to stagger back.

"What the—" Arven gawked in surprise at the sudden aid from out of nowhere.

"Ryuga! Arven! Are you two alright?" A familiar voice shouted. The two trainers turned around to see Hassel and Rika making their way into the battlefield.

"It’s nice to see you two made it," Ryuga said with relief. "This battle has become more gruesome since Gouging Fire seems to have learned Morning Sun from my last encounter with it," he explained quickly.

"No wonder you two look on edge after we arrived…" Hassel said sternly, glaring at the Paradox Pokémon that the two were clashing with.

"With the move Morning Sun, it’s important that we don’t allow it to become a threat to the Paldea Region," Rika stated, wearing her sunglasses. "How many times has that move been used?" she questioned with a calculated expression.

"Two times," Arven answered.

"Three more, huh? You weren’t kidding about how difficult this wannabe-Entei is, kiddo," Rika remarked. "Then again, this will be a worthy story to tell Poppy when we get back," she added with a smirk.

"That is if we make it out alive," Hassel said seriously. "Let’s put a stop to this behemoth!" he declared as the four Pokémon in their presence growled in affirmation.

Gouging Fire let out a roar before charging at them with fiery fury.

"Garganacl, Salt Cure!" Arven shouted as his Rock Salt Pokémon unleashed white salts toward the Paradox Entei, blinding it again. However, Gouging Fire rammed Garganacl a few feet back despite being blinded.

“Clodsire, Earthquake!” Rika shouted.

Gouging Fire leaped away to evade the incoming Earthquake.

“Dragon Rush! Dragon Pulse!” Ryuga’s Garchomp charged with Dragon Rush while Hassel’s Noivern fired Dragon Pulse.

Gouging Fire barely dodged the Dragon Rush but was hit by Dragon Pulse. Garganacl then charged at the Paradox Entei.

“Explosion!” Arven commanded, his voice serious. Garganacl began to glow brightly before exploding violently.

When the explosion faded, Gouging Fire was still standing, using its special Protect to reduce the damage from Garganacl’s Explosion.

Gouging Fire moved aside as Garchomp charged forward, giving Arven a chance to recall Garganacl. As the Paradox Entei sidestepped Garchomp’s attack, Ryuga gave his next command.

“Sand Tomb…!”

Gouging Fire’s feet became trapped in the sands conjured by Garchomp. Gouging Fire struggled to escape, but Garchomp continued pouring more sand to keep it restrained.

“Good job! Clodsire, Earthquake!” Rika’s Clodsire unleashed a rumbling Earthquake toward the Paradox Entei.

“Dragon Pulse!” Both Arven’s Walking Wake and Hassel’s Noivern fired a combined blast of draconic energy.

The union of three attacks struck Gouging Fire, sending it flying. Gouging Fire forced itself to use Morning Sun to recover from the damage, but black smog suddenly struck its face, causing it to feel disoriented.

“Nice work, Rika,” Hassel said. The teal-haired woman smirked, pleased her plan worked.

“If we’re going to win, we need to force it to use Morning Sun more often,” Rika stated, smirking.

“That’s three down, two more to go!” Ryuga said with a grin. Arven nodded, feeling more confident about their chances against the Paradox Entei.

Infuriated, Gouging Fire unleashed a powerful Lava Plume, hitting Garchomp, Noivern, and Clodsire, sending them flying.

Gouging Fire growled, gathering flames for a Fire Blast. Ryuga quickly released a Dive Ball.

“Palafin, Hydro Pump!” The Dolphin Pokémon materialized and fired a powerful jet of water to counter the Fire Blast.

“Guys, buy me some time. I need a clear opening for Palafin to use its ability,” Ryuga requested.

Arven nodded before summoned his Scovillain.

“If you’re doing what I think… fine,” Rika said, recalling Clodsire and summoning Whiscash.

Hassel recalled his Noivern and summoned Haxorus, who looked serious.

As the debris from Lava Plume cleared, Gouging Fire charged at them with glowing green horns.

“Rage Powder and dodge!” Arven shouted. Scovillain unleashed a cloud of irritating powder at Gouging Fire, which became agitated and targeted Scovillain, who leaped out of the way.

“Iron Head!” Hassel’s Haxorus launched a relentless assault, smashing into Gouging Fire’s side. Haxorus attempted another attack, but Gouging Fire used Protect, knocking Haxorus back while suffering from burn status.

“Muddy Water!” Rika’s Whiscash sent a spiraling brown wave at Gouging Fire, diminishing the heat from its attack.

Gouging Fire grunted, leaping aside in pain from the earlier Toxic exposure. It turned toward Haxorus, preparing for a Dragon Rush, but Scovillain spread more irritating powder.

“Now, Flip Turn!” At the decisive moment, with Gouging Fire distracted, Ryuga’s Palafin performed a midair flip, striking Gouging Fire by the horn.

Gouging Fire, influenced by the Rage Powder, couldn’t retaliate and focused on Scovillain instead.

Palafin returned to its Poké Ball before Ryuga released another Dive Ball and tossed into the air.

“Go, Pelipper!”

As Pelipper emerged, dark clouds formed before began to rain heavily. Gouging Fire tried to use Morning Sun but couldn’t fully heal due to the rain. Hassel used this moment to applied Burn Heal to his Haxorus.

“Liquidation!” Arven shouted as his Cloyster, covered in water, rammed into Gouging Fire, who tried to block with its Protect. The heavy rain weakened the Protect, forcing Gouging Fire to skid back.

“Breaking Swipe!” Haxorus charged with its tough tail, attacking Gouging Fire.

“Ice Beam!” Rika’s Whiscash fired a powerful icy blast at Gouging Fire’s legs, immobilizing it as the ice spread due to the cold rain.

“U-Turn!” Pelipper dramatically charged at Gouging Fire from the side, headbutting it and returning to its Poké Ball. Ryuga released Palafin again, this time in its Hero Form, standing imposingly.

“Ready, Palafin?” Ryuga asked. The Hero Pokémon nodded seriously. “Jet Punch at Gouging Fire!”

Palafin summoned torrents of water around its fists, launching water punches at Gouging Fire with blinding speed. Gouging Fire tried to dodge and retaliate with Dragon Claws, but the Jet Punch inflicted significant damage, pushing it back.

The Paradox Pokémon got back up, attempting to retreat for a safer spot to use Morning Sun.

“Cloyster, Rock Blast!” Arven’s Cloyster unleashed a rapid fire of rocks at Gouging Fire, hitting its back.

“Rock Tomb!” Hassel’s Haxorus summoned a large boulder from the ground, tossing it in Gouging Fire’s path.

“Muddy Water!” Rika’s Whiscash unleashed a torrent of muddy water, forcing Gouging Fire to jump away.

“Wave Crash!” Ryuga’s Palafin, shrouded in water, accelerated into the Paradox Pokémon with its whole body, causing massive damage.

Gouging Fire rolled across the ground hard, while Palafin also took recoil damage. Gouging Fire mustered its remaining strength, unleashing a fire blast high into the air.

“What in the world…?” Arven questioned.

The fire blast cleared the rainy clouds, revealing the sun.

“Again…?” Rika grumbled, annoyed.

Gouging Fire gleefully healed itself with Morning Sun.

“Don’t worry, Arven. That’s the last Morning Sun,” Ryuga said, recalling Palafin. He then released Ogerpon from a Friend Ball. Ogerpon, with her Cornerstone Mask, took a challenging stance against Gouging Fire.

Gouging Fire growled defiantly. Arven and the others watched, knowing this was Ryuga and Ogerpon’s battle now.

“This time, we’ll stop Gouging Fire,” Ryuga said, readying his Tera Orb.

Gouging Fire unleashed another powerful flame at Ogerpon.

Ryuga tossed the charged Tera Orb at Ogerpon, shielding her from the overwhelming flame as her Cornerstone Mask transformed. Diamond-shaped black hair extended from the mask, crystal horns protruded from her forehead, and her mouth opened wider.

Gouging Fire’s Lava Plume failed against Ogerpon, who stood bravely against the intense heat.

“Ivy Cudgel!” Ryuga shouted.

“POOON!” Ogerpon’s cudgel, wrapped in Rock-type power, swung at Gouging Fire. Gouging Fire dodged, but Ogerpon skillfully redirected her cudgel, striking from the side.

Gouging Fire grunted in pain, then launched a Dragon Rush at Ogerpon, who held her ground.

“Keep going with Ivy Cudgel!” Ryuga encouraged. Ogerpon pressed forward, knocking the Paradox Pokémon back. Their epic clash continued, with rock and fire elements filling the air. An explosion forced both Pokémon to skid back.

Ogerpon was still in fine condition, thanks to her Cornerstone Mask, while Gouging Fire staggered, heavily affected by the poison. Ryuga sensed this would be their final clash.

Gouging Fire roared, covering itself in flames with its remaining strength and sunlight.

“Ogerpon, ready your Ivy Cudgel,” Ryuga instructed.

“Pon!” Ogerpon channeled the power of Rock Tera and her Cornerstone Mask, preparing for the decisive move.

Both Pokémon charged at each other. At the last moment, Ogerpon leaped high, evading the attack, and delivered a powerful Ivy Cudgel strike to Gouging Fire’s back, sending it crashing to the ground.

Ryuga quickly retrieved a Timer Ball. Although Gouging Fire was already poisoned, he wanted to ensure it was captured safely.

“Let’s do this!” Ryuga shouted, throwing the Timer Ball at the fallen Gouging Fire. The Paradox Pokémon, weakened by poison and Ogerpon’s attacks, was caught by the Timer Ball, which sealed tightly.

Everyone watched as the Timer Ball wobbled once. It wobbled twice. It wobbled a third time.

“There’s no way it’ll break out after being poisoned, right?” Arven asked anxiously.

The Timer Ball stopped. Ogerpon powered down from her Terastalized state, picked up the Timer Ball, and handed it to Ryuga.

Ryuga took the Timer Ball, opened his RotomPhone, and analyzed Gouging Fire’s move pool.

“I’m surprised the Pokédex Program gave that ‘Fire Protect’ a name,” Ryuga remarked before the Timer Ball was teleported into the storage system. “Burning Bulwark.”

“That’s an interesting name, kiddo,” Rika hummed with interest.

“Let’s hope we don’t have to deal with any new ones showing up…” Arven sighed exhaustedly.

“Anyway, I’ll call the Flying Taxi service so we can head back and report,” Hassel said.

Ryuga nodded. With Gouging Fire finally captured, it was up to them to uncover any connection between the Paradox Beasts and the three Johto Beasts. Did Ho-Oh really create the three beasts, or were they based on the three Paradox Beasts?

Omake: Ryuga’s Savage Response

There was a pregnant silence echoing through the building of the Blueberry Academy. Ryuga's cold exterior made the Elite Four, Carmine, and Kieran flinch at the sheer iciness in his eyes. For the first time, they felt a coldness they had never imagined.

“Really? You think I would accept a confession like that after the hell you put me through?” Ryuga asked coldly. “Most of all, you tried to stab me with a knife because of your stupid jealousy?”

“B-But I am really sorry about all that! And I promise that I will cha—”

“I am seconds away from puking at how gross that idea is. The day I consider it is the day I start being bad to my Pokémon... so never,” Ryuga interrupted venomously.

There was no way in Giratina’s distortion world that he would accept a love confession from Kieran, who was nothing more than a brat who believed he is entitled to everything and abused his pokemons.

“But—!”

Ryuga interrupted Kieran's protest, “I would rather cut my wrists and swim in a pool full of poison types like Muk and Garbodor and risk infection than ever consider it. At least that experience would be less disgusting,” he finished with finality.

This made those around Ryuga stagger back, taken aback by the seriousness in his words.

“R-Ryuga… d-don’t you think that is too far?” Amary stammered in disbelief at Ryuga’s defiance. Even though it hurt that Kieran’s attention focused on Ryuga, it still pained her to see Kieran like that.

“I don’t care. I’m leaving! I’m heading back to Paldea!” Ryuga said before turning around and heading for the door.

“W-wait, you can’t do this!” Carmine retorted angrily. Even after everything, Ryuga couldn’t just drop everything they had gone through together!

“I have enough rare Pokémon to satisfy me. I don’t care if you, the Elite Four, or your Director try to stop me. But if I find Kieran stalking me again, I won’t hesitate to let my Pokémon finish the murder job in Kitakami,” Ryuga finished with a murderous tone before closing the door behind him.

It wasn’t long before Ryuga headed up the elevator to the main entrance of the Blueberry Academy. At that moment, Ryuga tossed out a Poke Ball and released—a shiny Dragonite!

“Hey girl, I want to head back to Paldea now,” Ryuga said before putting on his goggles.

Dragonite nodded affirmatively as Ryuga sat on her back, and they took off from the Blueberry Academy at incredible speed. With the boundary of Blueberry Academy is behind him, Ryuga is finally free the annoyance of siblings affair and he intended to savor every moment of it.

Chapter Text

It was another peaceful day in Paldea as Ryuga was setting up his stuff in the Secluded Beach of South Providence. After the Gouging Fire confrontation, Ryuga took a temporary break for himself and his Pokemons.

It's a needed break after preparing for the terrifying battle against Gouging Fire. Director Clavell was near the edge of his chair when hearing that Paradox Entei knew the move of Morning Sun and duration of the battle was. After everyone gave their account, Clavell requested that Ryuga take a break from battling to cool down.

The young champion rank trainer accepted it without any hesitation.

Ryuga did invite Arven, but his friend declined since he still meeting with his tutors for classes, which is understandable in Arven’s school situation and the motivation to graduate along with his friends.

Speaking of friends, Ryuga still remembered what happened with Nemona, who finally recovered from her exhaustion state and the news of Gouging Fire was dealt with.

(Flashback)

“HOW COULD YOU DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT TO ME!?" A booming voice could be heard across the hallway of Naranja Academy.

Or, it was thought.

Nemona was so frustrated. Screw that, she is furious at missing out on a potentially epic battle against Gouging Fire if it wasn't for her being out cold. Not to mention that Hassel and Rika were present in the battle to show how much of troublesome the Paradox Beast Pokemon was!

"You were out cold, Nemona." Ryuga pointed out. "And neither of us want to piss off Miss Miriam from calling out of bed. Trust me, I know what it is like…” he stated.

Arven nodded. "It's my idea of tracking that fire more brutal than later." He shrugged.

“That’s it! I’m challenging you both to battle!” Nemona stated, stubbornly. She won't stand for the fact that she wasn't invited, even if she was out cold from her training!

“Sorry. My team for the battle is currently still resting from that fight.” Ryuga said. “Not to mention that Gouging Fire is currently getting examined by Director Clavell.”

“The same goes for mine.” Arven shrugged. “Since you’re back up, don’t you still have your duties that you needed your attention?” he pointed out.

This made Nemona grit her teeth at Arven's jabbing to remind her that she needed to make up for her tardiness.

(Present)

"Skele?" Ryuga soon snapped out of his thoughts when seeing his trusty partner Skeledirge noticed he was lost in thoughts. She is the only one who stays beside him while other Pokemons are out playing carefreely.

“Just thinking of Nemona,” Ryuga admits. "I imagined what we might need while we keep our heads away from her for the time being." He added teasing.

“Grr…” Skeledirge huffed in annoyance at the mention of the battle-hungry girl that always come after her trainer whenever she want to satisfy her battle-hungry.

“Anyway, we should enjoy this moment since there aren’t any more Paradox based on Legendaries,” Ryuga said, hopefully.

"Skele…" Skeledirge remarked, feeling the same about not wanting to deal with any new Paradox Pokemons popped up.

“Pon! Pon! Pon!" Ogerpon approached them with a beach ball in her hands and gestured for them to come to play with her and others.

"Be right there!" Ryuga said before he and Skeledirge went on to enjoy a game of beach ball with his Pokemon.

Ryuga caught the beach ball before he passed it to Skeledirge, who gently smacked it with her tail before passing on the beach ball to Piplup, who used his head to hit the ball. The ball soon passed onto Toxrcitiy, who used his head to send the ball flying higher but it was caught by Espeon’s psychic power.

Soon Espeon let the ball spin in the air before she tossed it to Heracross who jumped directly toward it and grasped it before he skidded a few feet back. Heracross soon twisted his arm with the ball in hand like a propeller and sent the ball directly at Ogerpon.

"Pon!" Ogerpon soon charged and leaped over the water in her attempts to catch the beach ball before it hit the water.

This made Ryuga laugh at how this peaceful vacation after fighting against the last Paradox Beast Pokemon went smoothly. There were no immediate dangers in Paldea requiring his presence. There is no angry Nemona who is trying to challenge him when she doesn't know where he is.

It was just perfect—

Soon Ryuga and his pokemon heard a loud crash on the beach, which interrupted the peaceful atmosphere. Even Koriadon, who is resting near the picnic basket seems to be stirred up from the sound of the crash.

"Umm… Okay, what in the world was that?" Ryuga wondered in disbelief. The same goes for his Pokemons that are present in the area.

Soon Ryuga and his pokemons decided to approach caution at the crashed site. It's where they saw what looked like—

Ryuga's eyes widen in surprise at the sight of another Koriadon.

No, Ryuga is very certain that this is not the same vicious Koriadon he encounters in Area Zero and that it went down with the robot Professor Sada.

After all, this one looks way too machine. Its body is mostly metallic violet, though its face, neck, abdomen, tail, and knee joints are silver, and its claws are white. The most prominent feature is the gular sac on its throat, whose appearance changes between its different forms. Its head has a small, dark purple casque similar in appearance to a motorcycle's windshield and circular purple cheeks. Its eyes resemble an LED display: the sclerae and pupils are black.

It wasn't that long before he heard the sound of his RotomPhone beeping as it began to identify the mysterious Koriadon.

“Miraidon… the Iron Serpent?”

Ryuga looks back to his sandwich-loving bike lizard, who is equally confused as them. “So you seen this guy before in Area Zero?” he questioned.

Koraidon shook his head, dumbfounded. That is enough for Ryuga.

It wasn’t that long before Ryuga noticed there was someone in the metallic arms of the metal bike lizard. It was a young girl around his age with brown hair, which had one braid. But what is even unusual is that she is dressed in a uniform similar to his Naranja student uniform, but the place where the orange is violet.

Ryuga resisted the urge to facepalm at this absurd scenario in front of him. Something like this happens to him when he is in that accidental coma that blocks him from being sponsored by the Galar League.

"Okay… This might lead me on a wacko adventure when I'm on break…" Ryuga sighed in annoyance, but there was something about this girl vaguely familiar to him, but unsure if he ever recalled meeting her. As much as he wants to enjoy his private time… he can't ignore this absurd thing and that this girl is connected to the possibility of another bike lizard.

"Alright. I will call Mom than panic the whole academy," Ryuga said with full conviction. "She was used to this kind of crazy thing when she was a trainer. Rotom, call my mom.”

Soon his RotomPhone appeared in front of him and speed speed-dialed his mother's numbers.

“Hey sweetheart, I thought that you were on your beach break.” Ryuga’s mother said slightly curious.

"I was," Ryuga replied, frowning. "And now it was interrupted by a crashed land of another bike lizard with an unconscious girl. And Koriadon has no recollection of this fellow."

“Hmm… Is the girl alive?” Ryuga soon came close with his Pokemons, by his side, making sure his safety. He checked the girl's pulse.

“Her pulse is weak," Ryuga replied, observing the girl. “And I don’t see any outside injuries with how this pokemon protected her.”

“I see. I supposed that I didn't mind letting the girl stay. It sounds like something I did in my trainer days,” His mother said. “Considering that she has a Pokemon similar to Koriadon, do you think it is like sandwiches?” she inquired.

“Well, I’m going to find out…” Ryuga said before watching the mechanical bike lizard wake up. By waking up, blue pixels appeared in the 'eyes' and growled furious at the newcomers, especially around the human girl it was protecting.

“Giias!” The metallic lizard growls cautiously.

At the same time, Ryuga's pokemons growl menacing too while Ryuga remains calm.

“Don’t worry, we aren’t going to harm you or your trainer in your claws,” Ryuga explained, calmly. “If you come with us, my mom can take a look at her.”

This made the metallic lizard look skeptical at his words, not really trusting him yet. Ryuga soon looks at Koriadon who growls at his metal twin before an idea comes to Ryuga’s mind. A very absurd idea that Ryuga himself finds strange.

"And I can make you sandwiches if you come with us," Ryuga added.

This makes the metal Koraidon look reluctantly at the mention of sandwiches. Ryuga knew it! This fellow loved sandwiches too!

“A lot of sandwiches. I even throw in some Galarian Curry on them.” Ryuga offered. “Only if you come with us to make sure the girl is safe.” The sooner Ryuga got the girl some help, he could go back to relaxing on the beach again before any new adventures interrupted him.

Soon Koriadon interjected and gave some encouraging grunts for the metallic lizard to comply.

In Naranja Academy, Clavell and his staff are currently looking into any possible connection between the Paradox version of the Johto Beasts with the current Johto Beasts. It is a relief that Ryuga and others can secure the Paradox Beasts before the words spread further to the Johto Region.

It is still a complicated process even when Clavell calls some favors from his old acquaintances in Johto to help unravel the mystery. But also to make sure not to cause conflict between the governments of the Regions. To find out Ho-Oh's true intention of creating the Johto Beasts that were based on the Paradox Beasts themselves.

The reason is important to uncover the truth behind the myths that were passed down to Johto.

It seems that Miraidon finally calms down after reaching his house and the promise of sandwiches keeps, making him trust Ryuga and his mother. Ryuga also gave some sandwiches to Koriadon, making sure that he wasn't left out of the sandwiches.

Fortunately, his pokemons are currently on standby if there are any problems with the metal "Koriadon" which is the house's newest guest.

But Ryuga's thoughts were still focused on the unconscious girl who mysteriously crashed into his vacation at the moment.

"But still… there is something about that girl that is familiar, I can't place it where…" Ryuga said, looking at Skeledirge, who was watching from the couch. "Don't you think so?" he asked.

“Skele?” Skeledirge tilted her head in confusion at her best friend’s words.

Soon Ryuga's mother emerged out of the guest room after tucking the mysterious girl in. Her trusty Skwovet is perching on her shoulder.

“How is she doing, Mom?” Ryuga asked, approaching her.

“Our guest didn't have any kind of injuries despite crashing land with her pokemon…” His mother explained calmly. “I’m sure not recognized her student uniform despite how it looks similar to the ones Naranja Academy hands out.”

“But?” Ryuga asked.

“Well… I don’t know how to describe this,” His mother said, thoughtfully. “But when I checked on her, I thought that… she was you.” Even her partner Skwovet looking serious too.

This makes Ryuga blink incredulously. "Are you… seriously?" he asked.

"Yes. A mother's feelings are never wrong." His mother said, looking serious. “Then again, it is not impossible since we already have pokemons that can go dimension and time-travel.”

"Okay… I think that I need to go back to the beach before facing my… twin!" he said before heading out of the door with Skeledirge accompanying him.

“Well, he took it surprisingly well, Skwovet?” Ryuga’s mother inquired. Skwovet nodded.

Ryuga soon sat at his beach chair as he went back to the same beach again, this time he was going to relax. After hearing his mother telling him that girl might be a parallel version of him from another reality, but with a machine bike lizard that loved sandwiches too.

With her, his twin being unconscious, he is safe from an opening can of orthworms that better stay closed. And having more time to relax from the awkward discovery. It is still too early for Paldea to know that he has a female twin from a parallel dimension. He can already imagine Arven might become more awkward due to past trauma of scaring girls away due to being overly friendly in the past.

‘Beside Clavell and others are probably still trying to make sense of the three Paradox Johto Beasts. Added my twin into the mix is going to drive too much,’ Ryuga thought, trying to relax on his beach chair at the very moment.

It wasn’t that long before he felt something on top of his lap and it was none other than the baby Pipulp, who seemed to mimic his behavior of relaxed. After the fiasco of Kitakami, he did take a slow route when it came to the baby Pokemon that came from the egg Jacq gave to him.

"So you want to enjoy the sunbath like me, huh?” He asked.

"Piplup…" The small penguin pokemon chirps in response peacefully.

 It wasn’t that long before he heard the cries of his Corviknight who is survery everything above. Ryuga has trained his Corviknight especially to evade any Tinkaton after he learned about how Corviknights live a more difficult life in Paldea than Galar.

Ryuga especially knows what the cry means. Nemona is coming to challenge him. Again.

"And it's a good thing that I know how to be a few steps ahead of her," Ryuga said, getting up with Piplup in his arm, “Guys, it’s time to move out.”

His pokemons got up from their activities and responded to his order.

(An hour later)

Nemona soon finally made it to the place and was going to settle things with Ryuga for ditching her of the awesome battle he was part of. Only for her to end up in an empty beach area without any footprints.

“Huh? I thought that he would be here?” Nemona questioned, trying to look for any signs or smell of him.

But there was nothing. Nothing to show that he wasn't here.

She then called out to her Lycanroc to see if she could sniff out anything familiar. But Lycanroc shakes her head sadly that there were no signs. This also made Nemona feel even more frustrated.

Back in the residential house of Ryuga and his mother, the mysterious girl is currently resting in the guest room that Ryuga’s mother set up for her. Even though it is hard to tell when she is going to stir up and realize that she is in a new reality. It wasn’t that long before she began to move subconsciously and groan out a name.

“Terapagos…”

Chapter Text

In the land of Kitakami, a man was seen conducting research over the crystal pool that locals claimed was a portal for ghosts of the past. He was a tall man with a slender build, brown hair, and a beard. He wore a blue bodysuit with purple outlines resembling circuit lines under his white lab coat, fastened with square-shaped blue buttons.

He paid little heed to the myths, as the locals seemed far more concerned with the Ursaluna rampaging through their fields. From what he’d gathered from the news, the locals might have deserved the trouble. His primary concern lay with the crystals that emitted energy identical to Terastal energy—a phenomenon tied to painful memories from a region he had long left behind.

It wasn’t long before he felt a nuzzle on his shoulder. Turning, he saw his partner, Manectric, both his companion and protector, keeping wild Pokémon at bay. The Ursaluna was of little concern; he wasn’t its enemy. With a gentle hand, he retrieved a Sitrus Berry from his pouch, offering it to Manectric as a reward for its hard work.

His peace was soon interrupted by the sharp ring of his cellphone. Picking up, his eyes widened at the name on the caller ID.

Geeta. A name he hadn’t seen in years. He’d received the occasional email from Clavell, usually updates about Arven, which he never read—they hurt too much. There were also updates about Sada, but those were left unopened for different, equally complicated reasons. Geeta, however, wasn’t someone he could ignore.

“It’s been a long time, Professor Turo,” Geeta’s familiar voice said.

“Geeta,” Turo replied with polite reserve. “What’s the meaning of this call?”

“We need you back in Paldea,” Geeta stated. “Your expertise is needed once again.”

Turo frowned. “I left Paldea for a reason. Why don’t you ask Sada for help?” There was a sharp bitterness in his tone.

“I hate to break the news, Turo,” Geeta said solemnly. “But Sada is dead. In Area Zero.”

The phone nearly slipped from his hand. Manectric, sensing his shock, caught it with its nose and barked to snap him out of it. Turo quickly reclaimed the phone, his mind racing.

“How… how is that possible?” he stammered, clutching the phone tightly. He knew Area Zero was perilous, but he had never imagined Sada wouldn’t survive. Was Arven all right? Had Sada involved their son in her dangerous work?

“It’s a long story, Professor Turo,” Geeta said, her voice heavy with sorrow.

(In Naranja Academy)

“I-I had no idea of what to say about this absurd of meeting an alternative of yourselves, but opposite gender…” Penny uttered, sitting uncomfortably in her favorite chair. “Then again, we have pokemons that can control space and time.”

It wasn’t that long since Penny invited Ryuga to play videogames in her her dorm room. It was there that Ryuga tell Penny about the new guest in his home, who might be alternative version of him, who has a metal lizard bike pokemon who also loved sandwich as Koriadon. He even brought photos of Miraidon as proofs.

“Yeah, I’m still wrapping my head around it,” Ryuga said, sitting on Penny’s bed while holding Penny’s Flareon in his arms and petting the fur head.

“S-So is there a reason why you are telling me than Arven and Nemona?” Penny questioned, confused about why Ryuga came to her first.

“I know that you don’t like Koriadon licking you, I won’t be surprised if Miraidon do the same. So I decided to give you the heads-up,” Ryuga answered blunt.

This made Penny gulp at the very thought of another sandwich lover lizard licking her. “And what about others?” Penny asked.

“Nemona is too upset, and I don’t want my twin to be stressed out, if Nemona wanted to battle her.” Ryuga said. “As for Arven… let just say that I’m more worried about him being uncomfortable with my twin... Arven told me that he used to be too over-friendly with girls and unintentionally scared them off. This might cause him to become embarrassed.” He said.

This made Penny cringe at the mental image of Arven being nervous around Ryuga’s female twin in her head. “Ugh… that is going to be so awkward to watch,” she said, pinching the arc of her nose. ‘I especially don’t want to know what sort of relationship his twin might have with Arven…’ she mentally cursed.

“E-Even so, I think it might be better to bring this up especially with Arven soon.” Penny recommended nervously. “I can’t imagine him being awkward… but it is better than later.” She said, trying to appear confident.

“I guess that’s fair.” Ryuga said. “There are things that I wanted to ask her like how she ends up in that situation, I mean there was no way that her academy might let her participate in something really dangerous despite being a Champion-rank Trainer.” He added thoughtful.

“You don’t think that she might end up in a situation that dangers, right?” Penny asked with concern.

“It’s just this unease feeling that I had when I first saw her and the conditions…” Ryuga said quietly.

(With Arven)

Arven is currently seen making back to Naranja Academy with Mabosstiff after recently completed another Gym battle to complete part of his requirements to being able to catch up with his friends in studies. It wasn’t that long before Mabosstiff suddenly smell something rather familiar and looks around the area.

Arven noticed his best friend’s behavior and inquired. “What is the matter, Buddy?” he asked.

Then Mabosstiff ran off in a hurry, which forced Arven to go after his best friend.

Mabosstiff darted ahead, his nose to the ground and tail wagging wildly. “Mabosstiff! Slow down!” Arven called, running after him. The loyal Pokémon ignored him, propelled by some invisible force of excitement.

When Arven finally caught sight of Mabosstiff, he was stunned.

The big dog Pokémon had leapt onto a man wearing a slightly worn lab coat, pinning him to the ground. Mabosstiff barked happily and began licking the man’s face with relentless enthusiasm. The man sputtered, flailing slightly but laughing through his protests.

“Okay, okay, buddy! I get it! Down!” he said between chuckles, his voice light with nostalgia.

Arven stood frozen a few feet away, utterly bewildered. “Mabosstiff! What are you doing? Get off him!” he shouted, but the sight of the stranger laughing—laughing in a way that felt oddly familiar—stopped him mid-step.

The man finally managed to sit up, gently pushing Mabosstiff aside, though the Pokémon still wagged his tail furiously. “You haven’t changed one bit,” the man said, scratching Mabosstiff behind the ears. Then he glanced up—and his breath hitched as his eyes landed on Arven.

Their brown and blue eyes met each other. Arven felt like he knows those eyes before, but he couldn’t place where he seen them.

For a moment, neither spoke. The man’s face shifted, his awkward chuckle fading into a tentative smile. “Arven…” he said softly.

Hearing his name spoken in that voice sent a jolt through Arven. The familiarity of it was undeniable, though it was tempered by years of distance. His heart sank as realization hit him like a thunderbolt. “No…” he whispered, his throat tightening. “No way.”

No matter how much he want to denied, but here is someone that Arven never thought of seeing again after he walk on him and his mother. After arguing with his mother nonstop.

The man stood, brushing dirt from his lab coat. His movements were cautious, almost hesitant. “It’s… been a while,” he said, his tone laden with awkwardness and regret.

Arven stared at him, disbelief giving way to recognition, then to anger. “You… It’s you,” he said, his voice rising with emotion. “Turo.”

Turo winced, his hand faltering mid-reach as if he’d been about to step forward but thought better of it. “I didn’t expect to see you here,” he admitted, his tone apologetic. “I… didn’t think—”

“You didn’t think at all, did you?” Arven snapped, his face twisting in a mix of anger and betrayal. “Not when you left me. Not when you left us.” His fists clenched at his sides. “And now you just show up? Out of nowhere?”

Mabosstiff whined, glancing between the two. Turo opened his mouth, closed it again, and finally managed, “I know I don’t deserve—”

“You’re right. You don’t,” Arven interrupted harshly. His voice cracked as he continued. “You walked out on your family, on Mom, on me. And for what? For your precious research?”

Turo flinched at the accusation, his shoulders slumping. “I never stopped thinking about you, Arven,” he said quietly, his tone sincere but tinged with hesitation. “I know I hurt you. More than I can ever fix.”

“Don’t,” Arven said sharply, holding up a hand to stop him. “You don’t get to act like this is some heartwarming reunion. Mabosstiff may remember you like nothing’s changed, but I…” He looked away, blinking rapidly to keep his emotions in check. “I barely remember you at all.”

Mabosstiff whimpered again and nudged Arven’s leg. The sight of his Pokémon’s worry softened Arven’s expression momentarily, but it quickly hardened again as he glared at Turo. “You don’t just get to come back and act like everything’s fine. It’s not.”

Turo took a step back, his head bowing. After hearing from Geeta about what happen, he wasn’t surprised. “You’re right,” he said after a long pause. “I can’t undo what I’ve done. I can’t expect you to forgive me. But… I want to try.”

Arven’s jaw tightened. “Well, good luck with that,” he said bitterly before turning away. “Come on, Mabosstiff.”

The Boss Pokémon hesitated, glancing back at Turo before trotting after Arven.

Turo remained rooted in place, his shoulders sagging as he watched his son walk away, leaving an unspoken chasm of years and pain between them.

(In Area Zero)

In the depths of Area Zero, the secluded realm echoed with the lively rhythm of music playing from Ryuga's RotomPhone. The tune resonated through the cavernous terrain, providing a beat for Ryuga and Ogerpon as they practiced intricate dance moves. Ogerpon wore her Wellspring Mask, its mystical aura shimmering in the dim light, preparing for the upcoming Pokémon Contest.

Nearby, Ryuga's Pokémon team, including the ever-curious Koraidon, watched the practice intently. Their occasional hums blended into the melody as they stood guard, ensuring no Area Zero inhabitants disrupted the practice with ill intentions.

The performance ended spectacularly. Ogerpon summoned a radiant fountain of water that arched gracefully into the air before cascading down in sparkling droplets. She landed with flawless poise, earning a round of approving cries from her teammates.

“That’s a good one, Ogerpon,” Ryuga praised, wiping his damp forehead with a towel passed to him by his Blissey. He offered Ogerpon a thumbs-up, and she chirped happily in response.

The celebratory moment was interrupted when Koraidon and the others suddenly bristled, sensing an approaching presence. Ryuga raised a hand, signaling his team to stand down as a Salamence descended from above, its wings stirring the mist. From its back stepped Turo, his movements calculated but not hostile.

“You must be Ryuga,” Turo said, his voice measured as his gaze lingered on the young trainer amidst his Pokémon.

Ryuga crossed his arms, his expression unflinching. “And I know who you are, Turo. News travels fast, especially about your reunion with Arven on campus.” He gestured toward the sprawling terrain. “Inspecting Area Zero, I take it?”

Turo nodded, albeit awkwardly, his eyes drifting toward Koraidon and Ogerpon. The sight of the mask-wearing Pokémon and the legendary beast at ease with Ryuga seemed to unsettle him. “It's remarkable… Practicing for a Pokémon Contest in a place with such high-stakes dangers.”

Ryuga shrugged. “This is the only place we can train without interruptions.”

The comment made Turo hesitate. “Even so… you should remain cautious. The risks here are—” He paused, his tone shifting to one of regret. “Unforgiving. Like what happened to Sada.”

Ryuga’s expression softened slightly at the mention of the fallen professor. “I’m aware,” he said quietly. “If Sada’s obsession with her work had been any worse, I wouldn’t be surprised if her A.I. had flooded this place with endless Paradox Pokémon to guard the time machine.”

Turo’s features darkened at the grim thought. “She was blinded by her ambition,” he murmured.

Ryuga tilted his head, studying the older man. “I am surprised you’re not hostile toward Koraidon. I thought there might be… unresolved feelings.”

Turo gave a faint smile, shaking his head. “Clavell made it clear not to provoke you or your Pokémon. Besides, he told me there were two Koraidon.”

“And Ogerpon?” Ryuga gestured toward the masked Pokémon, who had positioned herself protectively at his side. “Interested in her, too? Her masks allow her to change types through tera energy.”

Turo regarded her thoughtfully. “Ogerpon’s abilities are fascinating. After Kitakami, it’s evident she’s more comfortable with a trainer like you than with scientists like me.” He sighed, a trace of wistfulness in his voice.

Ryuga narrowed his eyes, catching the subtle tension in Turo’s stance. “You didn’t come all the way down here just to talk about Ogerpon or Koraidon, did you?”

Turo hesitated, his gaze flickering to the ground for a moment before meeting Ryuga’s eyes. “You’re perceptive,” he admitted, his voice quiet. “I came to understand what remains of this place… and to confront my own mistakes. But that is my burden to bear.”

“Your mistakes,” Ryuga echoed, crossing his arms. “Let me guess—this is about Arven.”

Turo stiffened, a flicker of guilt flashing across his face. “I don’t expect you to understand. This is something I must resolve on my own.”

Ryuga frowned, his gaze steady and probing. “You’re his father, and I get that you feel responsible. But you have to know that pushing people away doesn’t fix anything. Trust me, I’ve seen it before.”

Turo’s expression hardened slightly, though the weight of his guilt was evident. “This is not a matter you need to involve yourself in. Arven’s pain… it’s because of me. It’s my task to make things right.”

Ryuga stepped closer, his tone sharper. “And what if you can’t? What if you mess it up because you’re too stubborn to ask for help? You think that makes you noble or something?” He gestured toward Koraidon and Ogerpon, both watching the conversation intently. “I’ve been in situations where I needed to rely on others. It doesn’t make you weak—it makes you smart.”

Turo’s jaw tightened, his hands balling into fists. “You’re just a child. You can’t possibly understand the weight of—”

“Don’t,” Ryuga interrupted, his voice cold. “Don’t use my age as an excuse to dismiss what I’m saying. Arven doesn’t need you to swoop in and fix everything for him. He just needs to know you’re there, that you care.” He softened slightly, his tone less confrontational. “But hey, what do I know? I’m just the kid who helped him get through Area Zero.”

Turo flinched at the reminder, his shoulders sagging slightly. The silence between them grew heavy, filled only by the faint hum of the RotomPhone’s music in the background.

Finally, Turo sighed, his voice barely above a whisper. “You might be right. But I don’t know how to face him. Every time I see him… I see my failure. I see Sada in him.”

Ryuga nodded, his expression thoughtful. “You can’t change the past, but you can decide what kind of future you want with him. He’s willing to give you a chance—don’t waste it.”

Turo glanced at Ryuga, his eyes searching the boy’s face for any trace of mockery, but there was none. Instead, he saw a calm determination, a maturity beyond his years.

“I’ll think about it,” Turo said at last, his voice heavy with resignation.

Ryuga gave a small shrug. “Fair enough. Just don’t wait too long. People don’t stick around forever, you know.”

Turo gave a faint nod before mounting Salamence. As the great dragon lifted into the air, Turo glanced back at Ryuga, his expression a mix of gratitude and uncertainty.

Watching him go, Ryuga turned to his Pokémon. “Well, that was something,” he muttered, shaking his head. “Alright, team, back to training. Ogerpon, let’s work on that timing for the fountain finale again.”

The Pokémon cheered, their bond with Ryuga evident as they resumed their practice under the dim, otherworldly light of Area Zero.