Naoki recalled Melmetal's incredible contribution during the fight against the Darkest Day in Galar, providing the materials needed to forge Zacian's sword and Zamazenta's shield. Though the world might have forgotten its role, Naoki hadn't, and now the idea of bringing Melmetal to the ranch began to take root in his mind.
"Melmetal was an unsung hero," Naoki thought. "It deserves a peaceful life, alongside others who helped shape history."
He turned to the King of Bountiful Harvests, who looked wistful as it recounted its memories of the legendary Pokémon. Naoki's voice carried a mix of determination and hope as he spoke: "Someday, let's travel to Galar together and find Melmetal. It would be amazing to give it a place to rest here at the ranch."
Calyrex paused, its gaze softening as it realized Naoki's intentions.
His little believer wanted these heroes to live a better life!
"I'd like that," the King replied with a chuckle. "I, too, would like to see Melmetal again."
Naoki grinned. "It's settled, then."
...
The next day dawned bright and clear, autumn's golden hues painting the countryside. Naoki began his morning tending to the orchard, accompanied by Koraidon and Cyclizar. They worked together to pick the ripened fruits, packing any excess into crates to be sold in town.
Meanwhile, the other Pokémon gathered in Snorlax Park for a meeting. The air was lively as Pawmot, Glaceon, Umbreon, Alcremie, and others jumped onto Snorlax's enormous belly, while larger Pokémon like Dragonite stayed nearby. In the center of their circle was a shimmering pile of gold coins, courtesy of Gholdengo.
The Pokémon had decided it was time to do something for Naoki. After all, he always took care of them, bringing gifts and surprises. Now that they had money, thanks to Gholdengo, they wanted to return the favor.
Pawmot scratched his head nervously. "Pawmot?" (But I've never been to the market before. How do humans buy things?)
The Pokémon looked at one another, equally clueless, until Dragonite stepped forward with confidence. "Awoo!" (I know! Humans just give money, and they get what they want—like when they buy milk from the farm!)
The younger Indeedee clapped her hands, her eyes sparkling. "Eee eee?" (Then who will go to town and buy the gift?)
This was the tricky part. None of them were human, and Naoki was the only person who could understand them.
At that moment, Ogerpon, who had been listening quietly, floated forward with an idea. "Pon!" (How about I go? I can wear a mask to blend in. No one will know I'm a Pokémon!)
The Pokémon buzzed with approval, Alcremie twirling happily. "Mree!" (That's a great idea!)
Dragonite nodded as well. "Awoo!" (I'll fly you there. I know the town like the back of my wing.)
The elder Indeedee gave a solemn nod. "Eee." (The rest of us will stay behind to avoid arousing suspicion.)
However, the younger Indeedee furrowed her brow. "Eee?" (But is this money enough to buy a gift?)
The Pokémon exchanged uncertain looks. None of them fully understood the concept of money or how much things cost.
Gholdengo confidently patted its chest, its golden body gleaming under the sunlight. "Gholdee!" (Leave this to me! If we run out of gold coins, I can make plenty more!)
After a quick but focused discussion, the Pokémon team divided their tasks. Dragonite would escort Ogerpon and Gholdengo to town, while the others stayed behind at the ranch to avoid drawing Naoki's attention.
The younger Indeedee located a small pouch, carefully filled it with gold coins, and secured it to Ogerpon's arm. As Naoki remained occupied in the orchard, Dragonite crouched low, allowing Ogerpon and Gholdengo to climb onto its back. With a powerful flap of its wings, the trio quietly departed the ranch through a discreet back route.
The rest of the Pokémon remained at Snorlax Park, eagerly awaiting their return.
Naoki, busy collecting fruit in the orchard, suddenly paused. He straightened and glanced across the river, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.
"Did I just hear Dragonite's roar?" he asked aloud.
Cyclizar and Koraidon, who had been assisting him, exchanged confused glances.
"Ah… gah?" (Not sure…)
Naoki shook his head, dismissing the thought. "It's probably nothing. Doesn't sound like trouble." He gestured for Cyclizar to help load a large basket of fruit onto the pickup truck.
Meanwhile, Dragonite, Ogerpon, and Gholdengo landed in the bustling streets of Kosaji Town. To avoid being recognized as Pokémon, Ogerpon donned an Eevee mask that Naoki had purchased during a recent festival, while Dragonite and Gholdengo posed as Ogerpon's Pokémon companions.
As they strolled through the lively streets, their unique group quickly attracted attention.
Ogerpon fidgeted nervously. "Pon?" (Why does it feel like everyone is staring at us?)
Dragonite, however, was unfazed, its wings raised confidently. "Awooo!" (Probably because I'm Dragonite!)
Having made many delivery runs before, Dragonite was no stranger to the awe it inspired. People often stared or even chased it down streets just to catch a closer glimpse.
Hearing Dragonite's casual explanation, Ogerpon relaxed a bit, reassured that its disguise hadn't been compromised.
Meanwhile, Gholdengo soaked in the attention, waving enthusiastically at the crowd. "Goldee!"
The passersby gasped in amazement.
"Did you see that? That Pokémon waved at us!"
"Wow, it's solid gold! So shiny and beautiful!"
Gholdengo puffed out its chest even more, delighted by the admiration. The group continued onward, cutting a striking figure among the townsfolk.
Suddenly, a fiery-eyed young man stepped into their path.
Ogerpon flinched, startled by the sudden intervention.
The young man's eyes sparkled with excitement as he scanned the group. His gaze lingered on Dragonite, then shifted to Gholdengo, its golden body gleaming brilliantly under the sunlight. Finally, he looked directly at Ogerpon, standing between the two.
"You're a trainer, aren't you?" the young man exclaimed, his enthusiasm palpable. "That's incredible! You've managed to catch a Dragonite, and this golden Pokémon… it's amazing! I'd love to challenge you to a battle. Please, let me test my Pokémon against yours!"
...
Bonus Chapter @1000PS