1. Ash's Story (Part 10: Galar)

Chapter 33

As we return to Hammerlocke City, Opal remarks, "Hammerlocke—always such a dusty town. Though I suppose some Pokémon prefer it that way."

Spotting Bede by the Power Plant, we decide to inquire about his current situation. "Bede?"

Bede pivots towards us, his demeanor guarded. "Come to gawk at me now that I've had my Challenge Band taken away and my Gym Challenger status revoked? Can you really afford to waste time like this?"

"Not exactly..." Alice mutters under her breath.

"I commend your humility. It is appropriate for a Trainer of your...limited talents." Bede retorts sharply before venting his determination. "I'll have you know, though, that I haven't given up! I must become the Champion in order to help out the chairman! I will go and ask him to let me rejoin the Gym Challenge!"

Helen sighs in exasperation. "Doesn't he grasp that his expulsion resulted from his actions, destroying the ruins?"

Elena adds, "Some individuals seem to struggle with learning from their mistakes..."

"Hm...that boy..." Everyone then turns their attention to Opal, who remarks, "Now that's what I would call pink!"

"What? Him?" Flora questions, puzzled.

"So sincere and straightforward and yet so twisted and misguided...I like it! That's the kind of thing that gives people some depth!"

Suddenly, to their astonishment, she hurls her umbrella to the ground and exclaims, "Time for my Gym mission, child!"

"Huh? Wha-?" Bede is stunned as Opal swiftly approaches him, and we share the same astonishment. Opal proceeds to examine his attire and keeps mentioning the word "Pink" repeatedly, much to everyone's surprise. "Congratulations, child!"

After calming Opal down, Bede stammers, "M-Ms. Opal? What in the world has gotten into you?!"

"You were used by Oleana-am I right? You worked so hard to gather Wishing Stars for her, only to have her throw you away like rubbish once she was done with you... Come with me, child. I might be able to help you out."

"So, he's your successor?" I inquire, taken aback.

"Of course, it all depends on how much hard work he's willing to put in, too," Opal replies.

Bede gazes at her intently and asks, "Are you...Are you testing me?"

Then, he grins, saying, "Very well, I accept! In fact, I plan on making sure you see my full talents and tell me everything you know about the Wishing Stars!"

"A surprising turn indeed," Alice agrees.

"Absolutely," Helen adds, "It seems Ms. Opal might just guide him toward a positive transformation."

After saying our goodbyes to Opal and Bede, we make our way back to the Wild Area. This time, Gloria's focus is on finding Steel-type Pokémon.

1. Lapras Shipwrights: Ship assembly requires a lot of steel to be cut. We're looking for Steel-type Pokémon to come help us out! (5 Pokemon)

2. Mach Motors: We need superbly durable Steel-type Pokémon to help out with car manufacturing. Let's build cars together! (6 Pokemon)

3. MCR Freight: There've been some problems reported about the tracks we use. We'd like Steel-type Pokémon to come have a look for us. (7 Pokemon)

4. Pelipper Couriers: We're recruiting for help sorting out electronics that need to delivered. We're looking for Pokémon that are good with metal. (7 Pokemon)

5. Steelix Railcars: We need Steel-type Pokémon and their skill in using metal and machines to help assemble our railcars. (9 Pokemon)

6. Macro Cosmos Rail: We would like some help from Pokémon that know a lot about metal. You know, Pokémon that are pretty metallic themselves! (9 Pokemon)