The Teal Mask DLC for the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet games significantly expands the game world. Besides the rich content it offers, the DLC provides tantalizing hints about future updates, hinting at the inclusion of a fresh Legendary Pokémon, in addition to those already unveiled. Just like the prior release, The Indigo Disk is set to bring forth numerous new Pokémon later in the year. This includes a pair of distinctive DLC Paradox Pokémon that will complement the prior release featuring Walking Wake and Iron Leaves. However, subtle indications suggest that these won’t be the only distinctive additions to the Pokémon franchise.
Analyzing the current information about The Indigo Disk expansion, it appears that the latter part of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero will guide players on a journey across the ocean to the Unova-based Blueberry Academy and then back into the depths of Area Zero. The persisting mysteries related to Terastalization and the origins of Paradox Pokémon suggest that an encounter with Terapagos will play a pivotal role in unraveling the enigma of The Great Crater. This encounter is unlikely to transpire in the waters of another region. Moreover, even without considering the new Paradox Pokémon, it seems highly likely that another Legendary Pokémon is poised to emerge during this new adventure beyond Paldea.
The Loyal Three of Kitakami—Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti—follow a longstanding tradition in the Pokémon franchise as a trio of interconnected Legendary Pokémon. This pattern has been observed previously, notably with the Legendary Beast trio of Entei, Raikou, and Suicune from Johto, as well as the Legendary Birds—Moltres, Zapdos, and Articuno—that debuted in the original Pokémon Red and Blue. Typically, when such trios are introduced, there is an associated Pokémon unofficially recognized as a “Trio Master” exerting authority over them. An example of this is Ho-Oh’s relationship with the Legendary Beasts. Interestingly, a leader of this sort has now been subtly hinted at for the Loyal Three.
The trio of Pokémon known as the Loyal Three are designated as “Retainer Pokémon” in the Pokédex, hinting at their allegiance or service to a higher authority, often referred to as a “lord” or a comparable figure. Furthermore, it is essential to highlight the strong influence of Japanese folklore on Pokémon’s latest DLC. The narrative involving Ogerpon and the Loyal Three draws inspiration from the tale of Momotarō, a prominent figure in Japanese folklore. However, it’s intriguing to note that in the original Momotarō story, Momotarō himself would logically be the leader of the Loyal Three, yet he does not appear to play a direct role in the events unfolding in Kitakami. Nonetheless, there remains a possibility that he serves as the inspiration for Ogerpon’s companion from ancient times.
Regardless of the potential connection to Momotarō, one thing is clear: while playing The Teal Mask, players catch a brief glimpse of an unidentified entity that could possibly be the secret leader of the Loyal Three. During Keiran and Carmine’s grandfather’s account of Ogerpon’s history, a fourth figure is faintly visible, mostly positioned outside the frame above Okidogi’s silhouette. The presentation strongly suggests the presence of a fourth Pokémon during the past events, likely surviving Ogerpon’s rampage unlike the Loyal Three. This could explain why it has remained unnoticed and undocumented in modern times, potentially having escaped Kitakami in the aftermath and faded into obscurity.
This unidentified Pokémon is likely the origin of the Loyal Three’s ability-granting toxic chains, shedding light on their servitude. Following the theme of the Loyal Three, this new Legendary Pokémon is probably at least partly Poison-type. Its rounded shape may evoke the coils of a venomous snake, though this cannot be confirmed at present. Additionally, if this Pokémon is influenced by the character of Momotarō, a peach-themed design would align, suggesting a Grass typing as well.
On the other hand, it’s important to highlight the enigmatic humanoid figure depicted alongside the Loyal Three on signboards throughout Kitakami. An NPC briefly suggests that this figure might be the trainer of the Loyal Three, aligning with the Momotarō concept. However, it’s plausible that this figure is a humanoid Pokémon. Notably, the figure sports a trailing belt with rounded shapes, resembling the toxic chains worn by the Loyal Three. If this is the case, it strengthens the possibility that this figure is the originator of the chains.
Regardless of the true identity of the Loyal Three’s leader, their origin from a distant land suggests that the leader also hails from a foreign region. Moreover, given that The Indigo Disk primarily unfolds in Blueberry Academy, it is plausible that their place of origin is Unova. Although it might appear peculiar for a group inspired by Japanese folklore to originate from a region inspired by the USA (specifically, New York City), it’s important to note that Unova already features the Swords of Justice, inspired by the Three Musketeers, a French tale. Therefore, Unova is already aptly positioned to host Legendary Pokémon inspired by cultures beyond its real-world basis.
Considering the artificial nature of Blueberry Academy, it’s plausible that the leader of the Loyal Three might seek out the protagonist, deviating from the usual narrative flow. For instance, the Pokémon could act after learning about the resurrection and subsequent defeat of the Loyal Three. In this scenario, its appearance could be linked to the capture of all three Legendaries. This could signify an attempt at seeking revenge or aiming to liberate its subordinates. On another note, if it has sought Ogerpon’s masks adorned with Tera Crystals, this Legendary might be in search of more of this unusual material, potentially within Blueberry Academy, Area Zero, or perhaps targeting Terapagos itself.