User:Storm Aurora/The Echo of a Deity's Voice

Main Story Arceus Arc

Chapter 1: Three Champions →

Prelude: Mysterious Stones Chapter
The Echo of a Deity's Voice

序章　謎の石編

Prologue: Mysterious Stones Chapter

Info

Date started	November 1, 2023
Date concluded	August 1, 2024

Other

Featured sync pairs

None

The Mysterious Stones Chapter (Japanese: 謎の石編 Mysterious Stones Chapter), titled Prelude: Mysterious Stones Chapter (Japanese: 序章　謎の石編 Prologue: Mysterious Stones Chapter) starting on August 20, 2024, is a storyline available in Pokémon Masters EX. It is the first part of the Arceus Arc of the Main Story (Japanese: メインストーリー Main Story). It follows on from the plot of the Villain Arc, telling a story in which Scottie/Bettie is asked to investigate the appearance of sync stones ultimate. A new story area was released for the chapter once per month, starting from November 1, 2023.

Plot

Cynthia's Invitation

While the player is walking with Pikachu, a voice calls out to them. They turn to see Cynthia, who invites them to come with her to look into a mysterious stone that Rei had stumbled upon, explaining that its glow looked quite similar to that of a sync stone.

What Rei Found

Cynthia informs Rei, Akari, and the player that Professor Bellis has discovered something about the mysterious stones, asking them to join her in the laboratory. Rei eagerly accepts, but suddenly flinches and turns around. When Akari asks him what is wrong, he tells her that it is probably nothing, then suggests for everyone to visit the lab.

At the laboratory, Professor Bellis tells the group her findings, saying that the mysterious stone, just like a sync stone, reacts to the bond between a Trainer and their Pokémon. However, the mysterious stones are unable to release the energy obtained from this bond as a sync stone would. She explains that in order to do more research, she would need everyone to find more of the stones and bring them to her. Cynthia suggests asking people to search around Pasio.

Across Pasio, Trainers look for the mysterious stones. In caves, some Rock Lovers, as well as Rose and Oleana, search in two different groups. On the mountain, the player, Lear, Rachel, Sawyer, Tina, Paulo, and Colress search. Colress stops to ponder the existence of the stones, and Lear yells at him for getting distracted. While the player, Tina, and Paulo nervously laugh at them, something suddenly falls from the sky. The player is hit by it, drawing concern from both Tina and Paulo. When the player raises their hand, they hold up the sparkling object that fell on them—a mysterious stone.

Similarities to Sync Stones

Nemona and Penny visit Professor Bellis to inform her they each found a mysterious stone in town. Understanding that both of them are from Paldea, Bellis asks them if the stones seem to have any similarities with Tera Jewels, but the two confirm they are not alike.

Professor Bellis meets with Rei, Akari, Tina, Paulo, and the player to update them on what she learned from Nemona and Penny. When Bellis mentions the stones' similarities to sync stones, Akari asks where sync stones are found. Bellis explains they come from the seabed around Pasio, which is what motivated Lear to create the artificial island where it is. She adds that sync stones can be both mined and found on the ocean's surface from natural causes.

Bellis reminds the group that although sync stones are beautiful to look at, they have a powerful energy that can cause chaos if used improperly, something that resonates with Paulo. She explains that despite this, sync stones must be processed before they can release that kind of energy, which is why they are integrated into Poryphones. When the group ponders why no one was finding mysterious stones until just recently, Bellis begins to wonder if their arrival is related to Giovanni's attempted takeover of Pasio, as well as the space-time distortions that have begun to appear.

A Voice Calling Out to Rei

Steven, Cynthia, Rose, Oleana, and Looker report their findings to Professor Bellis. Both Steven and Rose explain that they have not been able to locate mysterious stones in places one would expect to find sync stones, and are instead finding them in bushes or in the town. Cynthia chimes in to mention that she suspects the stones could be appearing from another world. When Steven suggests that the stones could be gravitating toward powerful Pokémon, Looker states that people with powers can also attract things from other worlds, thinking of Anabel. Bellis agrees, then mentions that the stones are most often found by particularly strong Trainers, meaning the stones could be attracted to the energy of powerful people. She brings up another theory—suggesting the stones' arrival could be related to the Hisuian Trainers who have come from the past. Cynthia suggests meeting with Rei and asking him.

Meanwhile, as Rei is camping in the woods at night, he has a dream where a distinct voice speaks to him. Rei is startled awake, prompting Elio, Victor, and Ethan to come over to him. He assures them he is alright, and that camping simply reminds him of living in Hisui. Rei stays outside as the others go back to the tent. As Rei thinks to himself, he realizes that he recognizes the voice from his dream, and that it is something he heard when he first came to Hisui. Internally, he asks if the voice is "seeking something from people again."

The Creator of All Things

At the lab, Rei tells Lance, Cynthia, and Professor Bellis that he heard Arceus's voice in his dream. He believes this is connected to both his arrival on Pasio and the appearance of the mysterious stones, which Cynthia agrees with. Bellis suspects Arceus may be causing skilled sync pairs to find the stones. To figure out what is happening, Lance suggests going to the other Pokémon who are mentioned in the legends of Sinnoh.

At the ruins, Cynthia, Lance, and Rei meet with Lucas, Adaman, Irida, N, and Iris in front of Dialga and Giratina. Lucas notices Palkia is not present, and Irida explains that Cyrus was unwilling to help them. N and Iris go to speak to Dialga and Giratina. When both Pokémon cry out, N translates for the group, explaining that neither are certain if the stones are connected to Arceus. Iris explains that the Pokémon seem to be "confused," and N tells the group that Giratina is refusing to acknowledge Arceus. When the Pokémon cry out again, N translates that Arceus's presence is strengthening rapidly.

Back at the lab, Professor Bellis is doing more research when a Preschooler and Youngster enter the room. They both tell her they discovered some of the stones while they were playing in a forest. Bellis is shocked, realizing that she may have been incorrect about assuming the stones were only seeking out strong Trainers.

Show Me Thy Bond

A little while later, the player, Tina, and Paulo meet Lance, Cynthia, Steven, and Professor Bellis at the lab. Bellis tells the group that she was able to extract energy from the stones, and that she discovered the source of this energy comes from the power inside of a Trainer's heart. Wanting to present her research, Bellis asks the player if they would like to participate in a demonstration, as they are an ideal representative of a new generation of Trainers. The player is initially shocked, but after receiving some encouragement from the others, they become enthusiastic to learn more. Lance decides to help teach them about how to use the stones.

Days later at the stadium, Professor Bellis speaks in front of an audience and reveals the name she has given to the stones—"sync stones ultimate." She explains that the sync stones ultimate are quite similar to regular sync stones, but it is difficult to fully extract their power and integrate them into Poryphones. She calls on the player to begin their demonstration, and they enter with Pikachu. Before the player can start, a white light appears and a muffled voice speaks out, saying "show me thy bond."

Long-Held Ambitions on the Move

The Poryphone development team, consisting of Clemont, Volkner, Molayne, Sophocles, and Colress, struggle to find a way to incorporate sync stones ultimate into Poryphones while also keeping them accessible to users. To the group's surprise, Jacq enters and introduces himself as both a teacher and an app developer from Paldea. The team gladly invites him to help.

At the arena, Professor Bellis and the others remain confused about the mysterious voice they heard. Rei and Lear have now joined the group, and Cynthia asks the former about the voice. Before Rei can answer, he is interrupted by Volo, who declares that the voice came from Arceus. Rei stares in shock as Volo walks toward everyone and introduces himself. He tells them that he believes the sync stones ultimate are part of a test from Arceus, and that they should figure out how to show it the bond that it desires. Cynthia is confused as to how Volo could possibly know about the connection between Arceus and the stones, but he brushes it off as a duty of a merchant. Turning to Lear, Volo asks him if he is interested in meeting Arceus. Lear is hesitant, but curious. Volo encourages him to have a large tournament, saying viewers would enjoy seeing a "clash between a king and a deity." Lear becomes fully convinced, and Volo praises his quick decision-making, causing everyone else to sigh. Rei remains quiet.

Later, Volo takes a walk through the forest at night. He abruptly stops in place, then turns and asks aloud if there is something Rei would like to say to him. Rei emerges from the trees and silently stares up at Volo.

Fateful Reunion

Rei asks Volo if he created the space-time rift and caused the sync stones ultimate to appear on Pasio. Although Volo wishes he had done it, he reveals that he was not responsible. He explains that while he was able to benefit from Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina's power in Hisui, the same is not the case for Pasio. Volo believes that Arceus is the reason for the recent unusual events, and enthuses over hearing its voice. He is about to say something else, but cuts himself off to note that it seems Rei was not chosen by Arceus either. Rei is silent, something that does not go unnoticed by Volo.

Volo explains that he is still determined to take control of Arceus's power to recreate the world. Noting that he and Rei have conflicting goals, Volo suggests for him to try him by telling everyone his intentions. Despite the danger that would result in Volo's goal, Rei says he will not expose him, as that would not stop Volo or provide any kind of resolution. He also explains that he is still determined to change Volo's mind, saying he will only stop him if he tries to harm anyone on Pasio. Volo is amused that Rei is putting trust in him, telling him that he hopes Rei will not regret it. He then walks away, and Rei lets out a sigh.

A voice calls out to Rei, and he looks over to see Paulo, who had been watching the two speak from nearby. Paulo apologizes for overhearing, but explains he will not tell anyone about Volo, saying he does not believe any benefit will come from using power to stop wrongdoers. After Rei tells Paulo that only a few other people know what Volo is really after, Paulo offers to support Rei in any way.

Pride of the Myth Seekers

As Trainers across Pasio enthuse about the tournament, Cynthia is rather pensive.

Later, Cynthia is shown training her Lucario and Garchomp at the ruins. As she does so, she thinks of the way all of the Trainers around her have improved while she has yet to do so. Interrupting her thoughts, Volo calls out to her from nearby. He notes that Cynthia has not been able to draw out the full potential of her Garchomp, and wonders aloud if Champions are not as strong as they have been made out to be.

When Cynthia is surprised to hear him say that, Volo clarifies that he is only looking out for her—wanting all Trainers to grow so that they can use sync stones ultimate and be found worthy by Arceus. Cynthia is skeptical, prompting Volo to explain that her lack of growth comes from her Pokémon's lack of desperation in battles. He tells her that Pokémon trained in dire situations can do a better job of serving their wielders, and that is what forms the best bond between a person and their Pokémon. Cynthia asks Volo if he truly believes Arceus will choose someone who treats his Pokémon like tools, and Volo invites her to battle him. Wanting to prove false his method of Pokémon training, Cynthia accepts.

Volo sends his Garchomp out at Cynthia's. Its style of fighting surprises her, pressuring her to have her Garchomp unleash a powerful attack. Volo's Garchomp is unfazed, however, and Volo abruptly ends the battle, noting he doesn't want to give away his strategies before the two have the chance to fight in the tournament. While Cynthia acknowledges that Volo is a strong Trainer, she refuses to believe there is anything wrong with the bonds she shares with her Pokémon.

Reiterating that he will support Cynthia, Volo begins to walk away. He notes that Cynthia battles alongside her Pokémon. When Cynthia's Garchomp shows frustration after the battle, she confidently declares they will defeat Volo next time.

Adventures to Unknown Worlds

Steven searches for rocks on the mountain with Metagross, but notices that his Pokémon is less motivated to help him than usual. Brandon calls out to them from nearby, approaching them to ask what kind of "adventure" they are currently on. Greeting Brandon, Steven explains that he is looking for rocks as usual, but the search is less exciting since he doesn't have to find samples of sync stones ultimate for research anymore.

Brandon then asks Steven if he is planning on entering the upcoming tournament. Steven declines, saying he would rather give the next generation of Trainers the opportunity to grow instead. Disappointed, Brandon accuses Steven of limiting himself. He exclaims that everyone who knows Steven would want him to go on exciting adventures. This leads Steven to think about the people in his life, making him realize that he has not been prioritizing his own adventures. He vows to keep on adventuring with Metagross, pleasing Brandon.

A Leader's Role, a Challenger's Struggle

As Clair and Lance train together while Alder observes them, Benga arrives. Alder introduces everyone, but when Lance asks Benga for a battle, he declines and says that his Dragonite has not "been through enough." Angered, Clair tries to battle Benga, but he declares the same for her. He sends out his Volcarona, and it defeats Clair's Kingdra in one hit. Lance praises Benga's skill and tells him he could become Champion one day, but this only infuriates him, as he would rather have Lance treat him as an equal than a challenger. Benga then yells at Lance, scolding him for losing his desire to win.

After this, Lance begins to reminisce on his past, and realizes he lost sight of why he became a Trainer. He thanks Benga, and the two promise to battle when Lance becomes stronger. Smiling at the others, Alder thinks of the way the tournament, as well as sync stones ultimate, will bring people and Pokémon together. He decides it is time for himself to improve as well.

Area info

Area name	Release date	Unlock condition	First-time rewards
Cynthia's Invitation	November 1, 2023	Plays automatically upon accessing the Mysterious Stones Chapter for the first time	None
What Rei Found		Available from start	Gems ×10
Similarities to Sync Stones	December 1, 2023	Collect 100 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
A Voice Calling Out to Rei	January 1, 2024	Collect 200 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
The Creator of All Things	February 1, 2024	Collect 300 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
Show Me Thy Bond	March 1, 2024	Collect 400 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
Long-Held Ambitions on the Move	April 1, 2024	Collect 500 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
Fateful Reunion	May 1, 2024	Collect 600 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
Pride of the Myth Seekers	June 1, 2024	Collect 700 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
Adventures to Unknown Worlds	July 1, 2024	Collect 800 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10
A Leader's Role, a Challenger's Struggle	August 1, 2024	Collect 900 Mysterious Stones	Gems ×10

Gallery

Artwork of the Mysterious Stones Chapter

Music

Situation	Song key	Song name	Arrangement
In menu	No. 00004	Adventure Awaits	Unknown
Cynthia’s Invitation Walking with Pikachu What Rei Found From start Similarities to Sync Stones The group meets in the forest Show Me Thy Bond From start Long-Held Ambitions on the Move From start A Leader's Role, a Challenger's Struggle From start	No. 00008	Out for a Stroll	Unknown
What Rei Found The group goes to the lab Similarities to Sync Stones From start A Voice Calling Out to Rei From start The Creator of All Things The children enter the lab	—	Bellis's Lab	Unknown
What Rei Found Trainers are searching for stones The Creator of All Things Visiting the ruins Adventures to Unknown Worlds From start	No. 00010	Wild Wanderings	Unknown
A Voice Calling Out to Rei Looker thinks of Anabel Pride of the Myth Seekers Cynthia trains at the ruins	No. 00016	Sneaking Suspicion	Unknown
A Voice Calling Out to Rei Rei's dream Show Me Thy Bond Arceus's voice interrupts the demonstration	—	Arceus's Voice	Unknown
The Creator of All Things From start Bellis questions the validity of her hypothesis Long-Held Ambitions on the Move The group reacts to the mysterious voice Fateful Reunion Paulo is revealed to be listening A Leader's Role, a Challenger's Struggle Benga scolds Lance	No. 00014	Lurking Threat	Unknown
Show Me Thy Bond At the arena	No. 00002	Pokémon Masters EX Main Theme	Unknown
Long-Held Ambitions on the Move Jacq enters	No. 09005	The Academy Ace Tournament! (Pokémon Masters EX Version)	Unknown
Fateful Reunion From start Pride of the Myth Seekers Volo ends his battle with Cynthia	No. 04025	Volo's Goal	Unknown
Pride of the Myth Seekers From start	No. 00007	Fun with Friends	Unknown
Pride of the Myth Seekers Volo and Cynthia begin to battle	No. 04007	Decisive Battle! (Cynthia)	Haruki Yamada (ATTIC INC.)
A Leader's Role, a Challenger's Struggle Benga rejects Lance's invitation to battle	No. 05006	Battle! (Alder) (Pokémon Masters EX Version)	Haruki Yamada (ATTIC INC.)
A Leader's Role, a Challenger's Struggle Lance regains the desire to battle for victory	No. 01004	Battle! (Lance) (Pokémon Masters EX Version)	Haruki Yamada (ATTIC INC.)
Song names without a song key listed are unofficial, as they have not been added to the Jukebox.

Script

• Cynthia's Invitation

Name	Text
(The player and Pikachu are walking on a path)
Cynthia	Oh? Hello, <player>. What fortunate timing. Would you care to join me? We might get to hear about something interesting.
(An image of Rei and Cynthia staring at a sparkling object is shown)
Cynthia	A while ago, Rei found a fascinating stone. And it had a glow that was similar to a sync stone, so we asked Professor Bellis to look into it. She has the results now, so I'm going to meet her to hear more details. What do you think? Would you like to come with me?
(The player nods)
Cynthia	Great! Before we visit Professor Bellis, let's ask Rei and the others to join us.

• What Rei Found

Name	Text
(The player is speaking with Rei, Akari, and Cynthia)
Cynthia	Do you remember the fascinating stone Rei found at the ruins? I asked Professor Bellis to analyze it.
Akari	The stone that has a similar glow to a sync stone, right?
Rei	Did she find something out?
Cynthia	Yes, she has some interesting results. I want you to come with me to her lab, so we can hear more details.
Rei	Sure, of course! I've actually been thinking about it for a while...
(Rei abruptly turns around and stares off into the woods behind him)
Akari	What's the matter, Rei?
Rei	Oh... I'm sure it's nothing. Now, let's hurry to Professor Bellis's lab!
(Transition to the lab)
Professor Bellis	So, I analyzed the stone you gave me. Although it has properties similar to sync stones, it's something different.
Rei	What do you mean?
Professor Bellis	Sync stones can release energy by reacting to a strong bond between a Trainer and a Pokémon. The stone Rei found has similar properties... But it cannot release energy like sync stones do.
Cynthia	It seems to be even more mysterious than sync stones...
Professor Bellis	Oui, I may need to research a little further. That's why I'd like you all to find more stones like this one.
Akari	The more samples you have, the more different methods you can try for your research, right?
Professor Bellis	Bingo! If you can, please also let me know where you find the stones. I'm keen to know why we're suddenly discovering them.
Rei	I agree... Shall we start by going back to the ruins and investigating the area?
Akari	Sure!
Cynthia	Shall we ask for help?: Sure, let's split up and ask around. That seems like hard work!: Let's ask our friends on Pasio to help, then. If we all search different areas, it'll be easier to find the strange stones.
(Transition to the caves. Steven is speaking with other Rock Lovers)
Steven	So we need to look for these fascinating stones that have similar properties to sync stones.
Roark	I don't think I've ever come across anything like that during my fossil hunts.
Roxanne	Same here. If there were any rare ores on Pasio, one of us would've spotted them right away.
Brock	These stones are mysterious, like ghost Pokémon...
Lenora	If I ever put them on display at my museum, I'll label them "ghost stones"!
(Transition to a cave, where Oleana stands in front of some Hikers)
Oleana	Please start working now, Hikers!
(The Hikers begin to search)
Rose	(This certainly brings back memories...) Now, let me help with the excavation! We need to collect stone samples and carry out the research as soon as possible—for our future!
(Transition to the mountain, where the player searches with Lear, Sawyer, Rachel, Tina, Paulo, and Colress)
Colress	Are these stones a new discovery? Or perhaps an entirely new creation formed by the power of the heart? How fascinating!
Lear	Colress! Enough talk! Focus on finding stones!
Paulo	Haha...
(Something falls from the sky onto the player)
*clonk*
Tina	Are you OK, <player>?
(Something sparkles in the player's hand)
Tina	Oh? Is that—

• Similarities to Sync Stones

Name	Text
(Bellis's lab)
???	Professor Bellis!
(Penny and Nemona enter)
Professor Bellis	Oh, Nemona?
Nemona	You know those mysterious stones that everyone's been talking about? We found some, too!
Professor Bellis	Really?! Where did you find them?
Nemona	Erm... Well, I found them by coincidence when I was battling in town...
Professor Bellis	Oh? In town?
Penny	My Veevees also found some when we were walking around town...
Professor Bellis	As I thought—they don't seem to be ordinary ores. I have a question for the two of you, as you're both from Paldea. Are these stones similar to Tera Jewels?
Nemona	Hmm... I'm not an expert or anything, so I'm not too sure... but the energy these stones give off kinda feels different to me.
Penny	The way the stones sparkle and shine is different, too, isn't it?
Nemona	Yup yup! It's different, all right—though these stones are pretty, too!
Professor Bellis	OK, understood. Thank you, both! If you find them again, let me know!
Nemona	Will do!
(Transition to a field. Rei, Akari, Professor Bellis, Paulo, Tina, and the player are speaking)
Rei	So, the stones were also found in town?
Professor Bellis	Oui! As we thought, they're similar to sync stones, but have key differences.
Akari	Erm... Come to think of it, where ARE sync stones found?
Tina	Yeah! I'd like to know, too! I've been using one ever since I came to Pasio without really thinking about it much, but I don't exactly know what kind of stones they are.
Professor Bellis	Oh, sorry! Of course! As a sync stone researcher, I can give a brief explanation. Sync stones are mysterious rainbow-colored minerals that are mined from deposits in the seabed around Pasio. That's the reason why Lear decided to create an artificial island here. Lumps of sync stones can be found deep underground... but countless pieces rise to the ocean's surface due to natural causes, such as plate tectonics and the movement of celestial bodies. At night, the pieces floating on the ocean make it look like a starlit sky—it's very romantic!
Akari	That sounds lovely!
Professor Bellis	As you know, sync stones are pretty, but they also contain powerful energy. They release that energy in reaction to the bond between a Pokémon and its Trainer...and they can cause chaos if they're used the wrong way.
Paulo	Yeah... They can strengthen your bond, but they can also tear you apart from your Pokémon...
Professor Bellis	However, sync stones cannot release energy unless they've been specially processed. That's why they're embedded in everyone's Poryphone. Handling a sync stone in its raw state is not dangerous. However...
Rei	We don't know if that's true of these mysterious stones, even though they have similar properties as sync stones, right?
Professor Bellis	Exactly...
Akari	I see... If sync stones are normally found in the ocean... then the stones we're finding in town must be different.
Tina	It's also strange that we've only been discovering them recently, even though people explore Pasio every day.
Professor Bellis	(Something that happened recently...) (Giovanni tried to take over Pasio, and a space-time rift appeared...) (Are those incidents somehow related?)

• A Voice Calling Out to Rei

Name	Text
(Bellis's lab)
Steven	As for the mysterious stones... We stone enthusiasts searched caves, rock walls, and the beach... but unlike normal ores or sync stones, we couldn't find any in those places.
Rose	Likewise... We conducted a thorough excavation, but ended up finding the stones in shrubbery or by the side of the road.
Professor Bellis	Hmm... I see...
Cynthia	As you theorized, the stones weren't accidentally mixed with the gravel used for the artificial island. Instead, they may have come from a world other than our own.
Professor Bellis	Exactly... Like the Ultra Wormholes and the space-time rift... we've encountered multiple instances of our world being connected to a different world or period of time. I believe that these phenomena may have made it easier for debris from other world to enter ours. But this is just my assumption...and I have no proof.
Steven	We've seen a lot more rare Pokémon on Pasio who, like Hoopa, have mysterious powers. There's a possibility that the stones are gravitating toward the power of these Pokémon.
Looker	... ... ... It's not just Pokémon that attract things from other worlds.
(Looker thinks of Anabel)
Looker	People with special powers or characteristics can as well.
Professor Bellis	Yes, that could also be the case.
(Bellis thinks of Penny and Nemona)
Professor Bellis	For the time being, the stones are found... mostly by sync pairs who're skilled in battling.
Cynthia	True...
Steven	The stones might be gravitating toward the powerful energy people possess.
Professor Bellis	Another theory is, we've been seeing people from Hisui appear here... The fact that they've come here from the past might be a factor, as well.
Cynthia	Come to think of it... Rei did mention he was concerned after he felt a presence of some sort... We might want to have a conversation with him to hear more details.
(Transition to a black screen)
???	... ... ... ... ... th ... ... ... thy ... ... me ... ...
Rei	Huh?!
(Rei is shown in the forest, opening his eyes. He looks around himself)
Rei	That was...
(Ethan, Victor, and Elio enter)
Ethan	Mmmph... What's the matter, Rei?
Victor	Did something happen?
Rei	No, sorry. I'm fine. I just had a strange dream. Camping reminds me of life back in Hisui, so I might've been a little on edge.
Elio	Oh, I see... I hope you're OK...
Rei	I'll stay out a bit more to feel the night breeze, then I'll go back to the tent.
Victor	Yeah, sure.
Ethan	*yawn* Good night, then...
Rei	Yeah, good night. (That voice... I heard it before I came to Hisui...)
(Rei stares upward)
Rei	(Are you...) (Are you seeking something from people again?)

• The Creator of All Things

Name	Text
(Professor Bellis's Lab)
Lance	I can’t believe it...
Rei	I know how it sounds, but I really heard it. The same voice I heard before I arrived in Hisui... Arceus’s voice!
Cynthia	Arceus...
Rei	Professor Bellis, you said that there’s a connection between the stones we’ve been discussing and the recent changes on Pasio, right? I’ve also recently come to Pasio. The fact that I came here, the discovery of the stones, and the voice of Arceus... It’s hard to believe that they’re not all connected.
Cynthia	According to the legends of Sinnoh, Arceus is the creator of all things... If you consider the fascinating properties the stones have, it actually makes sense.
Lance	So, do you think Rei actually heard Arceus’s voice?
Cynthia	Yes... It’s hard to believe, but... Adaman and Irida were also saying that Dialga and Palkia had communicated their will to them here on Pasio...
Professor Bellis	True... So far, the stones have been found by sync pairs who’re skilled in battling... It’s as though the stones are seeking out strong sync pairs... Perhaps, someone or something is conspiring to make strong sync pairs find the stones. One hypothesis is that it might be Arceus’s doing.
Lance	Well, in order to find out what’s happening on Pasio... maybe we can speak to those who have “close ties.”
Cynthia	Those who have “close ties”? Do you mean—?
Lance	Yeah. The other Pokémon mentioned in the legends of Sinnoh, just like Arceus!
(Transition to the ruins, where Lucas, Adaman, Irida, Cynthia, Lance, Rei, N, and Iris meet in front of Dialga and Giratina)
Lucas	So, it didn't go well with Palkia...I mean, Cyrus?
Irida	It did not. “I see no benefit or reason to extend my help to you.” That was his response.
Adaman	Well, no matter how much time we spend talking to him, it won’t get us anywhere.
Lance	I’m sorry you had to come all this way, N and Iris.
N	No, it’s fine. I actually wanted to take some time to have a chat with Dialga and Giratina.
Iris	Yeah! Same here!
(N and Iris approach Dialga and Giratina)
N	Now, Dialga, Giratina... Let me hear your voices.
(Both Pokémon cry out)
Iris	... ... ...
Lance	Well?
N	Apparently, they're not sure if the stones have any connection to Arceus...
Iris	Both Dialga and Giratina seem troubled...or rather, confused, I think.
N	Yeah, Giratina, in particular, refuses to talk about Arceus...
Rei	... ... ...
Adaman	The creator of all things really is a massive presence, huh...
(The Pokémon cry out once more)
N	But these two are also saying... Arceus's presence is getting stronger by the day.
(Transition to the lab)
Preschooler	Professor!
(A Preschooler and a Youngster enter)
Youngster	We found the weird stones you were talking about!
Professor Bellis	What? You did?
Preschooler	Yup! We found them when we were playing hide-and-seek in the forest.
Professor Bellis	(These kids are definitely not as strong as the other Trainers who found the stones before...) (I thought the stones were seeking strength...Was my hypothesis wrong?)

• Show Me Thy Bond

Name	Text
(Professor Bellis’s Lab)
A short time had passed since the children found the mysterious stones Despite some imperfections, Professor Bellis managed to extract energy from them.
Professor Bellis	At the very least, my experiments managed to successfully confirm that the energy of these stones is drawn out by the power of one's heart. However, unlike sync stones, these ones are not so easily handled... When the time comes to present my research, I'd like a sync pair with a powerful bond to lend me a hand in a demonstration. Would you mind participating in the demo, <player>?
(The player is shocked)
Cynthia	We’re the ones who endorsed you.
Steven	We felt there was no better example of a sync pair with a powerful bond.
Tina	That's amazing, <player>! Oh, but wait...weren't you all helping Professor Bellis with her research? Aren’t you going to participate in the demo?
Lance	Well... It's true that we’re familiar with how to use the mysterious stones because we helped with some preliminary tests... And the power of these stones could unlock new possibilities for sync pairs on Pasio, right?
Steven	Precisely. That's why we thought someone like <player>—a leader of the next generation—would be more fitting than one of us.
Cynthia	Especially because the presentation will be in front of a lot of people!
Paulo	Hmm...OK. I'm curious about what sorts of new possibilities you three could unlock, though. Aren’t you, <player>? Tina?
(The player and Tina both cheer)
Tina	I am!
Lance	Hahaha! That’s nice to hear! Well then, if we want to turn more of these possibilities into realities.. we’ll need to give <player> a lecture on how to use the stones!
(Transition to stadium)
Days later...
Professor Bellis	Hello everyone! Thank you for coming! Today, I’ll be presenting my research on the mysterious stones discovered on Pasio! To start, the official name of these stones has been decided. They will be called...“sync stones ultimate”!
(The audience cheers)
Professor Bellis	I chose this name because there’s a high probability those stones contain more power than ordinary sync stones. Much like sync stones, these stones react to the bond between people and Pokémon, emitting radiant energy. But at the moment, extracting 100% of the power contained in these stones proves challenging, even with the best sync pairs. It’s also very difficult to embed the stones into Poryphones, and it may take a little longer for everyone to be able to use them. Nevertheless, these stones hold new possibilities that may strengthen the power and bonds of sync pairs. So allow us to share a snippet of the current findings from our research.
(The player and their Pikachu enter)
Professor Bellis	I’ll now turn the presentation over to <player> and Pikachu!
Talk to Pikachu.: (The player turns to Pikachu, who happily cries at them) Take a deep breath.: (The player closes their eyes and Pikachu watches them)
Professor Bellis	... ... ...
(A white light fills the area)
???	... ... thy ... ... me ... ... ... ... ... bond. Show me thy bond.
(The player is startled)
Lance	Huh?!
Steven	That voice...
Cynthia	Was that—?!

• Long-Held Ambitions on the Move

Name	Text
Moments before the mysterious, resonating voice interrupted Professor Bellis's presentation...
(Clemont, Volkner, Colress, Molayne, and Sophocles stand in Professor Bellis's Lab)
The development team was struggling to figure out how to get sync stones ultimate to work with Poryphones.
Sophocles	*sigh*
Clemont	Any apps or software we make capable of controlling sync stones ultimate always end up so complicated to use...
Volkner	Well, we’re used to working with all kinds of technology, so something complicated should be no problem for us to handle.
Molayne	But something like this might be too much for kids or people who aren’t great with tech to handle...
Colress	This undertaking of ours is quite challenging...but truly fascinating! These stones hold potential that is beyond human comprehension! Researching them is truly a rewarding experience!
???	Erm... Sorry to disturb you!
(Jacq enters)
Sophocles	Who’re you...?
Jacq	Hello, hello. My name’s Jacq. I’m a teacher from the Paldea region. Fun fact about me—I actually developed a Pokédex app for Rotom Phones! And a certain someone told me that I might be able to offer you a helping hand.
Volkner	Wow, that’s great!
Clemont	Oh, I’ve also been involved in developing a Pokédex! Please help us!
Molayne	Then let’s get started right away. Mr. Jacq, do you have any ideas on how we might address the accessibility issues we keep encountering?
(Fade to black. Transition to the arena, where Rei and Lear have now joined the others)
After the mysterious, resonating voice interrupted Professor Bellis's presentation...
Professor Bellis	I see... It seems nearly everyone in this arena heard the same voice we did.
Lance	“Show me thy bond,” huh...
Cynthia	Rei. Was that voice...?
Rei	Yeah. I’m certain. That voice is—
???	Indeed! That was a message from Arceus!
Rei	Wha—?!
(Volo approaches the group)
Professor Bellis	Um... You are...?
Volo	I’m Volo—a humble merchant who loves history and mythology! But more importantly! When the arena shone brightly, I also heard that voice! There is powerful, mystical energy within the sync stones ultimate, isn’t there? So, could the sync stones ultimate be... a test given to us by Arceus? If we’re able to show the “bond” that Arceus desires here on Pasio, perhaps then—
Cynthia	Wait, where did you hear about the connection between Arceus and the stones?
Volo	Investigating the odd and novel is key to any good merchant’s success! Prince Lear! Aren’t you curious about the deified Pokémon? Don’t you want to meet it?
Lear	H-hm... I would be lying if I said I wasn’t interested...
Volo	Perfect! Then, to show this deity your bond... you should hold a grand Pokémon tournament! If Arceus were to make an appearance...why, the audience would love to bear witness to a clash between a king and a deity, don’t you agree?
Lear	That’s true... A clash between a king and a deity... I like the sound of that. Heh! Fine! Let’s not disappoint this deity, then!
Volo	Wow! You have a real gift for making quick decisions! Impressive!
(Professor Bellis, Steven, Lance, Cynthia, and the player all sigh)
Rei	... ... ...
(Later; Volo is walking through the forest at night. He stops and pauses)
Volo	So? There’s something you’d like to say, isn’t there... Rei?
(Rei approaches Volo and stares up at him)

• Fateful Reunion

Name	Text
(Volo and Rei face each other in the forest at night)
Rei	Volo, I’m just going to ask straight out. Did you cause the space-time rift on Pasio? Did you make the sync stones ultimate appear?
Volo	Indeed I did... That’s what I wish I could say, but none of that was my doing.
(Images of Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina are shown)
Volo	Back in Hisui, I was able to take advantage of Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina’s power.
(Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina are shown with their Trainers—Lucas, Cyrus, and Cynthia, respectively)
Volo	However, it seems I’m not able to do the same here on Pasio. Given that, wouldn’t you agree that my options are limited? In other words, the strange events happening now are purely driven by Arceus’s will! And I heard Arceus’s voice! Which means... Oh, but more importantly... It seems like Arceus didn’t choose you in the end either, eh?
Rei	...
Volo	Savoring the silence, are we? Very well, then. Rei, I won’t let this opportunity escape me. This time, I’ll be the victor! I’ll wield the power of Arceus!
Rei	So...you still haven’t given up on using Arceus’s power to make the world the way you want it?
Volo	Precisely. Unfortunately, you and I have conflicting views. Do as you please. Perhaps try to stop me by exposing my motives to the people of this land?
Rei	OK... Fine. You know what? I won’t tell anyone about your true motives.
Volo	What?
Rei	Your dream’s dangerous. Really dangerous. But even if I got everyone to try to stop you by force, you still wouldn’t give up. And it wouldn’t really solve anything either. That’s why I’m not telling anyone yet. I haven’t given up on trying to change your mind.
Volo	...
Rei	But if you ever try to hurt anyone on Pasio, I’ll stop you.
Volo	Oho, so you’re placing some trust in me, then? I do hope you don’t regret it.
(Volo exits)
Rei	...
(Rei lets out a sigh)
???	Hey, Rei.
(Rei turns to see Paulo, who then walks over to him)
Rei	Oh, you’re the guy with the International Police... Paulo?
Paulo	Sorry. I overheard your conversation.
Rei	Oh... You’re going to tell Looker and the others, aren’t you?
Paulo	No. I’ll keep quiet about Volo.
Rei	You sure?
Paulo	Yeah. Whatever his beliefs are, we don’t know that Volo has done anything wrong on Pasio so far. Besides... I don’t think using power to eliminate wrongdoers will really stop bad things from happening. I want to support you and your choices. And I bet Looker and the others would say the same.
Rei	Paulo...
Paulo	By the way, do the others from Hisui know about Volo’s true motives?
Rei	Yeah, a few of them do...
Paulo	Ah, I see. That means only a handful of people are aware of the situation and could help if you needed it. So if there’s anything I can do, let me know, OK? I’ll help as much as I can!
Rei	Sure! Thanks!

• Pride of the Myth Seekers

Name	Text
(Square)
As news spread of a grand tournament featuring sync stones ultimate...
(Lance and Steven are shown with Cynthia)
Pasio buzzed with excitement, fueled greatly by the prospect of meeting the deified Pokémon.
Some Trainers were genuinely looking forward to the tournament, while others had reservations...
Cynthia	... ... ...
(Transition to the ruins, where Cynthia is training Garchomp and Lucario)
Cynthia	(Everyone else has gotten stronger since coming to Pasio...) (Dawn, Lucas...even Cyrus...) (I can’t stay like this...)
???	You seem quite uneasy.
(Cynthia turns to see Volo approaching)
Cynthia	Oh, you... You’re Volo, right? Can I help you?
Volo	That’s an impressive Garchomp. Yet it seems you have been unable to unleash her full potential... It was my understanding that Champions were supposed to be very skilled, but perhaps that assumption was wrong.
Cynthia	Well, that’s rather blunt of you. Have I wronged you somehow?
Volo	No, nothing like that. I only mean to express my support. You see, I want the Pokémon wielders of this land to become stronger. My aim is for as many individuals as possible to use the sync stones ultimate. And in so doing, they can be deemed worthy by a deity. I’m sure you would also like to meet Arceus, no?
Cynthia	...Who are you, really? Researching Arceus is no small feat—
Volo	Like you, I have an interest in Pokémon mythology. But more importantly... As you are now, you and your Pokémon will be unable to draw a sync stone ultimate’s true power.
Cynthia	And your reasoning for that is?
Volo	You lack desperation. In this place, Pokémon battles are treated as friendly competition. You could never hope to win against people and Pokémon who have battled through harsh environments with their lives at stake. As a Pokémon wielder, I give my own Pokémon orders so that we can survive. Pokémon honed through life-or-death situations can better serve as swords and shields for people! You can only truly say you have a bond with your Pokémon when you have reached that level.
Cynthia	You make it sound like you view your Pokémon as tools. Do you actually think Arceus will choose you, when you treat your Pokémon so coldly?
Volo	Heh. Would you care to try me? Let’s determine whose way of forming a bond is better, then, shall we?
(Cynthia's Lucario growls)
Cynthia	It’s OK, Lucario. Rest up a bit.
(Cynthia recalls Lucario)
Cynthia	All right, then. I accept your challenge. The way you forge bonds with your Pokémon is wrong—and I’ll prove it to you!
Volo	Well then...
(Volo sends out his Garchomp)
Volo	Let’s have a quick battle!
(Volo's Garchomp charges for Cynthia's and tracks quickly)
Cynthia	(What’s this style of battling?!) (I’ve never seen anything like it before!) (This isn’t good!)
(Cynthia commands her Garchomp to attack. Volo pauses)
Volo	Let’s call it a day. I may have the chance to battle against you at the tournament. It wouldn’t be very wise to show all my cards now, would it?
Cynthia	True. And I understand much better now... You’re more than just talk, and I’m still not skilled enough. However... I’ll never agree with you that there’s something wrong with the bonds between me and my Pokémon.
Volo	That’s fine.
(Volo recalls his Garchomp and turns away)
Volo	You still have my unwavering support.
(Volo begins to walk away, but pauses)
Volo	(Champion Cynthia...) (Surprisingly, she adapted quickly to my tactics and responded with countermeasures of her own.) She battles alongside her Pokémon...
(Volo leaves. Garchomp growls)
Cynthia	I know, Garchomp. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? We’ll beat him next time!
(The camera turns upward as the wind blows loudly)

• Adventures to Unknown Worlds

Name	Text
(Steven stands with Metagross on the mountain)
Steven	Did you find any good rocks, Metagross?
(Metagross does not respond)
Steven	...Not really into it, huh? Want to call it a day?
???	Hey, Champion! Out here on an adventure like me?
(Brandon approaches Steven from nearby)
Steven	Hi there, Brandon. Well, I wouldn't exactly call this an adventure. We're just hunting for rocks like always. It's practically a daily routine. Though now that we don't need to look for samples of sync stones ultimate anymore, it hasn't been as exciting.
Brandon	Hahahaha! I see! My daily adventures have been lacking something lately, too. That's why I've been searching around this island every day for new adventures!
Steven	That's great! You're living up to your reputation as a legendary explorer by embracing the unknown.
Brandon	By the way, Champion... Are you preparing for the upcoming tournament everyone's been talking about?
Steven	No. I won't be joining the tournament. Instead, I'll focus on uncovering the mysteries of the sync stones ultimate.
Brandon	Oh? Why is that?
Steven	Well, ever since I came to Pasio, I've been noticing how the next generation of Trainers has been growing and changing. Watching them has made me reflect on what I should be doing. And I've come to realize that I need to be someone who can support their growth.
Brandon	I see... That's an admirable mindset—one I've seen from you before. But that's not enough, Steven!
Steven	Huh? It's not enough?
Brandon	Indeed. Seeing young talent seems to be shaking your confidence. Am I right?
Steven	That's not true. I genuinely want to support the next generation of Trainers and help them grow. I want to see people and Pokémon doing their best. Is that wrong?
Brandon	No, it's not. It's wonderful to guide young talent and support their growth. But that shouldn't stop you from going on your own adventures! It seems like you're trying to play it safe. You're saying the right things, but isn't that you trying to make excuses? What does your courage sensor say?!
Steven	(My own adventures... My courage...)
(Metagross lets out a cry)
Brandon	Adventures are passionate! Dangerous! Desperate! Reliable and fearless Champions confront challenges headfirst! Even if they're worn down, they push through! The next generation of Trainers and the people who know you well... I bet they all want you to go on thrilling adventures!
Steven	...
(Steven thinks of Lisia, Wally, May, and Brendan)
Steven	(I was too focused on everyone else's growth because they were shining so brightly...) (I didn't even think about my own shine.)
(Steven thinks of the Hoenn Elite Four, then Zinnia)
Steven	(Maybe I have been forgetting to work on myself and pursue my own adventures...)
(Steven thinks of Wallace)
Steven	I understand now, Metagross. This is what you were trying to tell me all along, wasn't it?
(Metagross lets out another cry)
Steven	Brandon, you're right. It seems I was indeed trying to play it safe. Now that I'm aware of it, I'm somewhat disappointed in myself.
Brandon	Well, I must say, I'm rather excited to see your new adventures with Metagross!
Steven	As am I. I can't wait to see the worlds Metagross and I discover through our adventures!
Brandon	Your own courage will lead you through unknown worlds... Ahh, yes, indeed this life is grand! Young explorer! I look forward to our next meeting!
(Brandon exits)
Steven	OK then, Metagross! It's time to start our adventure! After all, when it comes down to it... We're just the strongest there is right now!

• A Leader's Role, a Challenger's Struggle

Name	Text
(Clair and Lance train Kingdra and Dragonite, respectively, as Alder watches)
Alder	Right! Both of you seem to be gearing up nicely for the upcoming tournament!
Clair	Heh! Well, obviously!
Lance	Come on now, Clair...
???	Gramps!
(Benga enters)
Alder	Why, if it isn't Benga! Have you finished your training regimen on Pasio?
Benga	Yup!
Lance	Alder, who's this?
Alder	He's Benga—my grandson! He trains tirelessly and is just as strong as I am when it comes to Pokémon battling!
Benga	Who're these two?
Alder	They are famous dragon masters from Blackthorn City in Johto. Their names are Lance and Clair! Lance is a Champion and Clair is a Gym Leader.
Benga	Huh, cool! No wonder they smell tough!
Alder	How about it, Benga? Do you want to spar, perhaps?
Lance	That's a great idea! I'm curious to see what you're capable of—especially if Alder acknowledges your skills.
Benga	... ... ...
(Benga stares at Dragonite)
Benga	No!
Clair	Wha-?!
Benga	I know that Trainer's strong! And I want to battle! But that Pokémon hasn't been through enough!
Clair	Huh?! How dare you say that, you cheeky little—
Lance	Interesting... You seem pretty confident.
Clair	Hey! Why are you impressed with him? Well, if you're not going to do anything about it... then I'll teach this kid a lesson myself!
Benga	Nope, you're not good either! You haven't been through enough!
Clair	Enough talk! Battle me!
(Benga sends out his Volcarona, which proceeds to defeat Kingdra in one hit)
Clair	I don't believe it. There must be some mistake...
Benga	I told you so!
Lance	Hahaha! Looks like you're not all talk! You've got potential to become a Champion!
Benga	See? That's why I'm saying you haven't been through enough!
Lance	Oh?
Benga	You only see me as a challenger. You're acting like you're superior to me—as if I wasn't your equal!
Alder	Benga, he's a Champion. A person in his position is expected to provide guidance to—
Benga	I don't care about what you adults think you have to do! Is it more important than wanting to beat strong Trainers?! That woman is out to win! She wants it way more than you do! Your Dragonite hasn't been through enough, and that's such a waste! Beating an opponent like that isn't fun at all! Hey! Hey! Hey! Do you want to beat me? Or do you not? Which is it?!
Lance	(I guess he's right.) (I was very happy to witness my challengers surpass me.)
(Lance thinks of Red and Silver)
Lance	(But maybe that means I'm starting to forget what it feels like to WANT to win.) There are still plenty of worthy foes we want to beat here on Pasio. Thank you for opening my eyes, Benga. I don't want to lose against anyone. So I'll make sure both Dragonite and I go through enough!
Benga	Yeah! That better be a promise! We're gonna compete with each other at the tournament! And there we'll see who's stronger!
Alder	(Sync stones ultimate and the upcoming tournament have stirred up a lot of excitement...) (I have a feeling we'll be seeing a new kind of potential between people and Pokémon.) (It's time for me to step up my efforts!)

In other languages

Language Title Japanese 序章　謎の石編