A/N:
Hello everyone, welcome to Chapter 21. I'd like to apologize for the short wait...I've been struggling to get into a good rhythm lately. It happens when you spend weeks without writing. But I'm here and I'm not quitting, that I can promise you.
I forgot to say somethings about the next arc of the story. I don't really want to reveal much, but the Ula'ula Arc won't be happening exactly after the finale of the Akala Arc. The official finale for the arc will be when they visit the Aether Paradise. There will be an interlude chapter based on Ula'kala Island, which sits between Akala and Ula'ula islands. But I decided to postpone that arc so I can work on it, instead there will be another arc in between these two that will have Jack briefly leaving the Alola Region. Don't worry, it all ties into the story. You all know about Lillie, and know about Cynthia but I haven't talked much about Jack's back story, so this arc will serve to build some background for him. I also get to have him visit some of my favorite places in the Pokemon World.
As I said before, this story takes place in the "I Choose You" universe. The events of Sun and Moon will be going on during Ash's adventures through Kanto and will end probably by the time he reaches the Hoenn Region. There will be a bit of a time skip between the end of this story and its sequel, which will have Jack and friends exploring the Sinnoh Region, another one of my favorite Places in the Pokemon World. I wasn't exactly planning this story long term, but I love Pokemon and I wanted to plan out a sequel if necessary. Eventually we will reach the Kalos Region, or I might have Jack take on Johto after Sinnoh, I dunno yet, it's all in the planning stage. What I do know is that he will be traveling through the Sinnoh Region.
As for pairings, those are up in the air right now. USUM ruined what I had going for the plot of this story, so I don't know what to go with. I might go with the original Sun and Moon ending, which as you know has Lillie leaving Alola to help her mother and pursue her own journey. But I might also have her stay in Alola. I dunno...I might also have her travel with Jack in the future when she becomes a well rounded trainer. I just don't know what to do with her, to be honest. Cynthia is taking on the League, and I was thinking of having Jack compete in Pokemon Contests after having hung out with Cerise. I could have her partake in Pokemon Showcases but I dunno yet.
Anyway enough rambling...enjoy the chapter guys! let me know what you think!
Pokemon
Aloha Alola
Chapter 21
Return to Heahea City
(Hano Grand Resort)
Heahea City was glowing brightly under the Alolan sun. It was just as he had remembered it, the first two times he had been there. After the trial in the Lush Jungle, Jack, Lillie and Cynthia headed back through a path that lead to Route 5. Hau had decided to remain on Route 8, training and preparing for the Grass Trial. Tessa had also left, but she hadn't said where she had gone. All that he knew was that she had asked him for a Polaroid of Kiawe, which he refused. One, because he didn't have Polaroids and two because it was just an awkward thing to ask for. Still, the three trainers had finally made it back to the capital city of Akala Island, after several weeks of being away from it. Though his last trip to this city had been weeks prior, it felt like months had passed since his last visit to the city. Jack felt oddly comfortable seeing Heahea City again. But now that he was back, he knew it was for a reason...he was going to be staying there for a couple days, before heading to Konikoni City, via Diglett's Tunnel, which would lead him to Route 9.
"How many times has it been since we've come to Heahea City?" Cynthia asked.
"Me, three...I think it's been twice for you and four for Lillie."
"Well, I actually stayed in Heahea City for three months after what happened. It wasn't until before Jack came to Alola that I met Professor Kukui. I agreed to become his assistant because Professor Burnet asked me to take care of him for her. You know how he gets when he's testing out Pokemon moves."
"Yeah, my uncle can be a bit...abrasive on certain topics. Pokemon moves happen to be his specialty. Unlike my auntie who studies dimensions, its rather odd that two people like that got together huh?" Jack asked.
"If anything it makes their love that much more interesting. Two different walks of life met and fell in love. Oh Jack, when will you get your first girlfriend? I'm dying to see you go gaga for a cute girl."
"Ugh...don't start with me Fay. I get enough of that from my mother thank you very much." the boy said. They sighed contently, finally arriving at the Dimensional Research Lab.
"It's so good to be inside, the heat was starting to get to me." Cynthia said, fanning her face.
"You must be sick of the heat by now. The Sinnoh region is a lot cooler than the tropics. What about you Jack? Is it hotter here than in Lumiose City?" Lillie asked curiously, earning a shrug from the boy.
"It depends on the weather really. Kalos is a region that has varying weather, Central Kalos is mostly cool, Coastal Kalos is a lot hotter, since there are a lot of beaches there, and Mountain Kalos is the colder area. Hell, Snowbelle city is the coldest place in Kalos. The Gym leader trains ice types, and its so cold in his gym, that the entire city is blanketed by snowfall. It's just a sight to behold, tres magnifique!" he said, stars in his eyes. Cynthia rolled her eyes, crossing her arms as she walked.
"Welcome back everyone. It's a pleasure to see you back here so soon!" Hannah said, greeting the three trainers happily.
"It's great to be back here Hannah. Is my aunt here? I wanted to say h, since I was back in the city and all." he said.
"Professor Burnet is upstairs, I believe your mother Leilani is also here. She's been staying at the Hano Grand Resort, and has been begging the Professor to go with her to the Wela Hot Springs."
"Oh mom...come on, let's go before my aunt starts to lose her patience." the boy said, heading up the stairs. As they neared the lab, the three trainers could hear voices being heard, one of them being peppier than the other who seemed to be stressed. Jack opened the door and stepped inside, just in time to see his mother following after his aunt.
"Come on Burnet! When was the last time you left this stuffy lab? It must be boring for you here! A trip to the hotsprings is just what you need, maybe you can get to work on giving Jacky a cousin?"
"Well maybe if you tell that stubborn brother of yours to get with the program, we can start making babies. However I can't go with you right now Leila, I'm close to making a valuable discovery. One that could change the nature of my research and inter-dimensional travel forever!"
"Pish-posh! That discovery can wait...come on, you mean to tell me you can't give me three days?"
"No, I can't...not right now okay?"
"Um...is everything alright here?" Jack called out, causing both women to stop in their tracks. Leilani smiled, quickly hugging her son.
"Hey Jacky, I wasn't expecting to see you back already! Let me guess, you already finished your trials in Akala Island?"
"That's right, Waterium Z, Firium Z and Grassium Z, all of them are right here on my Z-ring." he said happily, showing his mother the ring, which still had his Flyinium Z currently in use.
"Not just him, Cynthia was able to get herself a Z-ring and her very own Grassium Z. We're all taking a break here in Heahea City before heading to Konikoni for the Grand Trial." Lillie said happily.
"Yup, I can't wait to see Jack take on Olivia's trial. I want to see what kind of Pokemon she has on her team. It's a shame that I don't have the other two crystals, I'd love to take a crack at the trial. Maybe get myself my own Rockium Z."
"Ah, you'll get your shot later. Regardless, I think you guys should take a break from traveling. It takes about two days to reach Konikoni on foot, but if you stick around I'll give you a ride there. How does that sound?" Burnet asked, earning nods from the teenagers.
"That would be awesome, we could get to the Ruins of Life faster too. I know Lillie wants to visit them, and so do I. I really want to snag a picture of Tapu Lele before I head to Ula'ula Island." Jack said, glancing at his camera happily.
"Well, since you'll be staying here Heahea City? How about you stay with me at the resort? It's a lovely place and I know you'll love the private beach!" Leilani said, earning an odd look from the boy.
"Mom...I'd rather stay with my friends. Besides, the Hano Grand Resort is ridiculously expensive. I can't let you waste more money on me than you have for yourself."
"Pfft...nonsense, besides I didn't pay for my room. I actually won a baking contest back in Melemele Island. Me and Hibiki's father entered it together and he gave me the ticket." she said cheerfully.
"Ugh...him again? Mom I don't like you associating with other men." Jack said firmly. Cynthia and Lillie gasped in shock, while Fay just shook her head, leaning back against the wall. Star had been busy looking through her camera to even notice.
"Honey, I'm just making friends. I'm not going to marry him or anything, besides...I'm a big girl and I can handle myself."
"I know that...I just don't want you to get hurt okay? I'm still getting over what dad did to you, I don't want someone else to break your heart." he said. Leilani smiled, hugging her son tightly.
"I know...I already have someone special in my life, and that's you. You are my entire world, as long as you're happy, then I'm happy too! So come on, let's go to the beach! I won the Penthouse Suite so there's room for all of us!"
"Oh I can't Mrs. Sparrow...it's just too much, especially since its The Hano Grand Report. That place has won the coveted Six Star Luxury award, the first of its kind. Its more expensive than anyone imagines...I just don't fit in there." Cynthia said, earning a similar look from Lillie.
"I'm gonna have to decline as well, that hotel is...too luxurious for someone like me."
"Ah...come on you two! Hibiki would have pounced on an opportunity like this, and I'm sure Hau would have been all over the Hano Malasada shop. Oh...I get it, you two are just shy...you don't want to be seen in swimsuits by the other guys at the resort!" Jack said.
"What? That is absolutely not it!" Cynthia cried.
"Could have fooled me." Fay added, earning a chuckle from Jack.
"Well, it's your loss...if you wanna have a boring time in Heahea City, then you can stay at the Pokemon Center. I however will be making memories at the resort. There's no way in hell I'm missing out on those pictures. I also heard the star of Detective Pikachu is staying there, and I am not missing out on that either. Come on mom, let's go!" Jack said, grabbing a hold of his mother's hand.
"Wah...don't pull me sweetie...have you been lifting weights? You are a lot stronger than before."
"Well...I did climb up a cliff so I could reach a Magost Berry tree. I don't think that counts as lifting though." he replied, earning a wide eyed look from the woman.
"Jack Sparrow, climbing up the side of a cliff is dangerous!"
"No it isn't...besides, there was a lake underneath me...I'm sure if I jumped at the right time I could have missed the rocks!" he replied. Their voices grew faint as they headed down the stairs. Cynthia and Lillie remained unmoved, both having the same thoughts. Burnet smirked, placing a hand on their shoulders.
"You know, the Hano Grand Resort has its own Private Beach, only people staying there can be on it. Unlike the public ones around the city, there's no risk of being hit on by horny teenagers. Go and enjoy yourselves, this chance only comes by once in a life time after all."
"I dunno Professor...its a bit too public. Especially because its frequented by members of...well you know." Lillie said.
"I know...but maybe you should just let it go for a couple of days. I'm almost done with my current research, in three days we'll head to Konikoni City. For now just enjoy your time off, you deserve it after your journey."
"I dunno." the blonde said, glancing around in worry.
"The Professor is right Lil...this is the only time we'll be able to enjoy the resort." Cynthia cried, taking a hold of her friend's hand, hoping to calm her down a bit. The professor smiled brightly.
"Go, before you miss your chance." Burnet said, pushing the two girls out the door. She let out a mischievous giggle.
"If Jack doesn't fall in love with one of those two after today, I'm going to eat my own research."
xxx
"Then I sent her packing! I may love the island trials, but that battle against Plumeria was by far the most memorable. Especially because Artemis was able to hone her true strength!" Jack said, showing his mother the picture he had taken with Cerise.
"I'm happy for you dear...you've made such an impact on this girl's life. I remember seeing her contests when she was just starting out, seeing her again jogged my memory of who she was. It's such a shame that she was banned from so many contests and leagues."
"Yeah, but hey she's taking the island challenge again. She told me that I inspired her to go on an adventure. I'm not sure where she is or what she's doing, but I know she's having fun. I'll support her with anything, just like she supported me and taught me how to use this crystal. Even though I didn't earn it, I feel like this is my most special crystal ever." he said, smiling fondly at the blue crystal.
"I'll say, Cerise was the cutest girl he's met on his journey, yet he didn't profess his undying love for her. I'm sorry Miss Leilani, I failed my mission."
"It's alright Fay, one day he'll bring home a beautiful girl, all his own."
"Wha...Mom! You told Fay to keep an eye on me? Really? What's with you? I may have an easier time making friends with girls. But that doesn't mean I'm going to start dating...sheesh, I just want to go on a journey!" Jack cried in disdain, earning a giggle from Star who was nestled in Leilani's arms.
"You don't be saying that when you find the right girl and fall in love with her~"
"Mom!"
"I'm done, I'm done...look there it is. The Hano Grand Resort!" the brown haired woman said, pointing ahead to the hotel. A beautiful white draw bridge connected Heahea City to the resort.
It was a large six story building, towering over a beautiful plaza, filled with various pools. The building itself was light orange in color, with panoramic windows for every suite that faced the beach. The plaza was covered in large leafy green palm trees. Tall iron fences separated the nearby public beach from the resort itself. The plaza was paved with cobblestone, a path leading down some marble steps toward Hano Beach. All over the plaza were several beach chairs, all of them being occupied by men, women and Pokemon. All over, children and teenagers could be seen, running around, splashing each other in the pools. The path that lead toward the hotel was lined with palm trees and hibiscus plants, all of them being of various colors, even white ones. Jack couldn't help but start snapping pictures.
"It's a lot bigger in person."
"I'll say."
"Oh girls, I knew you'd join us!" Leilani said happily, glad that Lillie and Cynthia had changed their minds after all.
"So, this is the prime destination on Akala Island. The resort to top resorts...wonder if Ula'ula Island has something like this?" the boy asked curiously.
"I don't think it does...too bad Tessa isn't here. She would have likely told us if there was." Lillie replied.
"Yeah, along with when this place was founded, by whom and a lot of useless information."
"Don't say that Cynthia, no information is useless information. Anyway, we should head up to your suite mom...that way we can change and hit the beach. It's the only place I haven't been too yet, funny huh? Traveling through an island paradise and I still haven't been to the beach."
"That's because you are too damn insistent on going from Point A to Point B and to Point C. Sheesh, you are thirteen so you should at least act like a kid." Fay said.
"Huh? He's not thirteen Fay, he's fourteen."
"No I'm not mom...I think I would know how old I am." Jack said. The woman turned to him, digging her hand into her purse for her PokeGear. She showed the boy the date, a smile on her face.
"See, August 3rd...you are officially 14 years old. I didn't want to say anything, partly because this trip was a surprise but...oh well, Happy birthday son."
"Yeah, Happy Birthday Jack! You better get ready, I'm gonna give you your birthday punches later!" Cynthia said, giving him a wink.
"That's so barbaric...you can't just hit him. Um...happy birthday Jack, I guess we're the same age now." Lillie said, earning a nod from the boy.
"Guess so...honestly it's just another day for me okay? How about we go up and change already? Let's hit the beach!"
"Alright alright, come on. We're on the top floor, its gonna take us awhile to change okay Jack? So you find us a spot when you are ready." Leilani said, earning a sigh from the boy.
"Yeah yeah."
xxx
"Man, whoever built this place must have shit gold bricks." Jack muttered, as he glanced around the lobby of the resort. When he had been inside the lobby for the first time, he almost cried at how beautiful it was.
The entrance was lined with blooming hibiscus flowers. Wooden arches rose above the tangerine colored carpets that lead toward the large spacious lobby. There were fountains at either side of the path, glittering crystal water shined under the lights. Floors were made mostly of polished wood, bearing a symbol in the shape of a hibiscus flowers. There were several elevators at the very back of the lobby, on either side of the front desk. The most alluring feature was definitely the waterfall fountain coming from the front desk. It was almost as tall as the lobby, the fact that the building was six stories tall and the lobby was so huge really added to the grandiose look of the resort. People were walking to and fro, chatting amicably and laughing joyously. Everywhere he looked, beautiful hula dancers could be seen along with their Pokemon. Fay had been taking pictures of the hotel, while Star stuck close to the boy, feeling odd since Fay had practically commandeered her camera.
"Fay, I think Star would like her camera back." the boy said.
"Sorry, sorry...I just miss taking pictures like I used too." the psychic type said, handing Star her camera back. She gave a happy cry, hugging the device tightly.
"I know...how about we buy a video camera for you? That way you can video record our journey. Pictures are amazing keepsakes, that last a long time. But video would be awesome too, we can kick back and watch our journey again. That way we can easily relive those memories!"
"That's not a bad idea you know...I think I will start doing that. Star can have my post as your assistant photographer, and I'll tape everything!"
"Atta girl! We'll get you a GoPro or something, I'm sure there's a store around here that sells that stuff." he said, glancing around the lobby. As he was walking, he wasn't paying attention to where he was going, and ended up bumping into someone, causing them to drop what they were carrying. He cringed, quickly kneeling down.
"I'm sorry Miss, I wasn't looking where I was going." he said, picking up the object, which he noticed was a Golf Club, a Driver.
The woman just gave him a smile, taking the club back from his hands. She had silver hair that reached past her shoulders. She was wearing a white visor, which had a pokeball printed on the side. She wore a tight fitting blue tee shirt, along with a matching pair of shorts. She had a black fanny pack around her waist, which had a golden hibiscus flower printed on the side of it. She was also wearing a pair of white cleats on her feet. He noticed the Z-ring on her wrist, his eyes focusing closely on it.
"I see you've taken notice of my Z-ring, you must be a Trial-Goer." she replied, earning a nod from the boy.
"I am...I just got my Grassium Z in fact...I'm taking a break here for a few days. Then its off to Konikoni City for my Grand Trial, I can't wait to show the Kahuna all of the crystals I've earned!"
"I see...well I wish you luck, incidentally, what crystals do you have?"
"Well, I got Normalium, Fightinium, Waterium, Firium and Grassium. Oh right, my friend ended up giving my a Flyinium Z that we all found. It was a bit of a challenge to use it, but my Primarina mastered Acrobatics, so now we can use Supersonic Skystrike." he said, a smile on his face.
"Interesting...I wasn't aware a Flyinium Z had been left behind...no matter, I wish you luck on your island challenge then. You know, I once took the challenge and ended up getting every crystal out there. If you keep training, I'm sure you'll do the same. Reach for the skies, and never stop soaring."
"I won't...thanks a lot for the advice Miss." Jack replied, earning a nod from the woman. She turned to his two Pokemon, giving them a once over, nodding to herself.
"You two are strong...I'm sure one day you'll travel to the Summit of Mount Lanakila for your final trial. I hear something great is being built there, perhaps we'll meet again one day. Until then, Alola."
"Alola to you too Miss." the boy said, giving her a wave as she walked off, disappearing into one of the elevators.
"Wow...what did she say to you?" a young man asked, having taken Jack by surprise.
"Huh? What are you talking about?"
"That woman you were talking too...don't tell me you don't know who that was."
"Clearly he doesn't sir...perhaps you could enlighten us?" Fay said, surprising the man, who hadn't expected the Pokemon to talk.
"Nevermind, that woman you were talking about is a professional golfer. She used to be the Flying Trial Captain on Melemele Island."
"Huh...the Flying Trial Captain...wait you mean that was Kahili? I was talking to Kahili and I didn't even notice it?" Jack cried, earning a laugh from the man.
"Wow...what a blunder, talking to someone so famous in Alola and you didn't recognize her. Ha, wait until I tell my wife this." the man said, laughing loudly as he went. Jack growled, turning toward the door.
"Fay, Thunderbolt."
"With Pleasure." the psychic type Pokemon replied. She let a weak bolt of lightning at the man, who yelped loudly. He fell to the ground, twitching from the shock. Jack high fived his partner, a smirk on his face.
It didn't take them long to reach Hano Beach. Jack had changed into his beach clothes, which weren't that different from his normal clothes. He was wearing a sleeveless light blue shirt, with a Lapras printed on the front. He wore a pair of black trunks, with a red Pokeball print on the right leg. He was wearing a pair of sandals, since he hated flip-flops with a passion. He had decided to take off his beanie, as it was too hot for him to wear.
"Mom was right, this beach is beautiful." he said, holding his hand up to block the sun. The water was crystal clear, and several people were splashing in the waves. The golden sand was littered with beach chairs and rainbow colored parasols, providing shade for the beach-goers.
"Nee nee!" Star cried, holding her arms up to the sun. The leafy appendages were glowing slightly as she absorbed the sunlight.
"This weather is perfect for Grass types. Star is clearly enjoying the sun...how about we take a walk? It's gonna take awhile for the others to join us." Fay said, earning a nod from the boy.
They started walking down toward the surf, avoiding a few of the kids running around. He reached inside his pockets for his Pokeballs, releasing the rest of his team from within. Artemis and Doku went straight for the water, splashing around happily. Ruffy, being a rock type, decided to avoid the water all together, and started digging holes in the sand. The only Pokemon he didn't release was Melody, because he didn't want to be swarmed when people saw her. He smiled happily at the sight of his team, finally enjoying their time off.
"Well guys this is it. We get a three day break before facing off against Olivia. Well, its actually only one day...we need to train hard in order to defeat Olivia. She trains rock type Pokemon, so its going to be a tough battle, however I've already chosen my team. Star, Artemis, Doku..you three will be the ones I bring to the Trial. So we'll train hard and win that Rockium Z, got it?" he said firmly, earning loud cries from his team.
"Hehe...alright, go have fun but stay close to the shore alright? Don't get into trouble, and don't mess with Sharpedo if you see them!" he said firmly. Artemis rolled her eyes, diving into the water, followed by Doku who decided to hunt for Corsola bits, having found a piece buried in the sand.
"You know...I'm happy."
"Why's that?" Jack asked, glancing at Fay who gave him a smirk.
"I finally get to sit the trial out...three in a row, no wonder the others aren't up to par with me."
"That is not true...I train all of you equally." he said firmly.
"I'm playing! I think I'll go take a walk around here. Heads up, here come the girls...I'll see you around."
"Okay Fay, keep an eye out." he said, waving his partner off.
"Hey Jack, sorry we took so long."
"Yes, it was your mom's fault. She had to buy us swimsuits at the hotel store, so it took us a bit of time to change." Lillie added. Jack turned to face them, giving them a once over.
Cynthia had pulled her hair into twin tails, which were held up with black ribbons, that had dark blue lining. She was wearing a two piece swimsuit, the top was a bright gold color, with thin straps. She wore black bikini bottoms, which tied at the hips.
Lillie on the other hand was wearing something different, she wore a white ruffled tubetop, which had green markings on it. She was wearing a matching bottom, though she had a light blue wrap around her waist, which had flowers printed on it. She left her hair down, allowing it to blow in the soft breeze that had picked up.
"You two look nice...let me guess, mom picked them out for you?" he asked curiously.
"Yeah...why do you ask?" Cynthia asked curiously. He sighed, pointing behind them.
He spotted his mother, walking toward them with a grin on her face. She was wearing a bright blue bikini top, with a red flower printed on the right breast. She was wearing a green grass skirt over her blue bikini bottom, and had a hibiscus anklet around her left leg. She was also wearing a brightly colored lei around her neck, a big pair of sunglasses were on her head. She was also carrying a cooler in her hand, most likely filled to the brim with food and drinks.
"Hey guys, I see you are already enjoying the beach."
"Mom, why'd you pick these swimsuits out for Cindy and Lillie?" Jack asked, crossing his arms.
"Because they were cute of course. Besides, they're old enough to wear stuff like that, and this beach is private. It isn't as if a pervert is going to be looking at them all the time."
"I know that, but...Cindy is thirteen, and Lillie doesn't like attention...I just worry okay?"
"It's alright Jack, I'm okay wearing something like this. Besides, I think its time for us to behave like adults. I mean we are Pokemon trainers, we travel around by ourselves. As long as we're responsible, I think we can dress how we want." Cynthia said, earning a nod from Lillie.
"I agree with Cynthia...I don't usually wear something like this, but I think its fine, everyone in awhile. A little sun never hurt anyone."
"Pfft, considering you have pale skin, I agree. Are you sure you're from Alola? You look more like a Sinnoh dweller." Leilani said, earning a giggle from the blonde.
"I assure you, I'm from Alola...I've just been...very sheltered."
"Well...it doesn't matter, I brought just the thing with me. You'll have a color similar to mine in no time. There's nothing like a beautiful tan from the Alolan sun! You know, there's a legend that says Tapu Koko was the one that pulled the sun closer to Alola."
"Wow really?" Lillie asked, having garnered interest in the story.
"Mhmm...this is a legend tied to the Legendary Solgaleo and Lunala. Apparently, they gave the Tapus special Power, allowing them to pull islands from the sea. Tapu Koko gave us sun, Tapu Lele made a gentle breeze to blow the sails of our boats. Tapu Bulu pounded the soil allowing us to plant crops, and Tapu Fini granted us rain that allowed the islands to flourish. Of course, scientists have a different theory." Leilani said, looking at the sand with annoyance.
"I understand...science is meant to answer our questions, and often times it can take a tradition or a story and completely make it irrelevant. But it doesn't matter, I believe that legend, its so mystical and magical. I want to know more about these legends, Mrs. Sparrow is it alright if you tell me more?"
"Sure thing sweetie, but on one condition, you stop calling me Mrs. Sparrow, and start calling me Leilani, or Leila for short, is that okay?" the woman asked, earning a shy nod from the blonde.
"Okay...thanks Miss Leila, I appreciate it." she said happily.
"Hehe...alright then, let's start with the legend of Tapu Fini, she was the first Tapu to appear in our world, the one who brought life to the islands after Tapu Koko pulled them from the sea."
"Ah! Stop splashing me Jack, my eyes hurt!" Cynthia cried, brushing her wet locks from her face.
"Don't be a sissy, it's just some salt water. I've been around water all my life, Cerulean Beach was my hangout whenever I could go. My mom always prioritized swimming over anything else. I guess she wanted me to get used to my Alolan roots." he said, standing up in the water.
"I guess...I'm not that good of a swimmer though. The waters of Sinnoh are cold year round, even the beach in Sunnyshore City has cold water. The only place that has moderately warm water is at Valor Lake Front."
"So you wanna learn how to swim then? I can teach you...Artemis." he called out, giving a shrill whistle. The Siren Pokemon surfaced, splashing a bit of water around them.
"Prii?"
"Hey girl, we're gonna teach Cynthia how to swim. She already knows how to float, but I think we should move to some advanced stuff...what do you say? Wanna help us?" he asked. He earned a nod from the sea lion, who started swimming around the two.
"What do you want me to do?" the young girl asked curiously.
"Well first, we'll have to go deeper than the shore. We're gonna start with resistance training. Holding your breath underwater will be an easy thing to start on. Let's start with swimming underwater with your eyes open, we gotta get you used to salt water."
"Okay...you aren't gonna let me drown right?" She asked.
"Of course I'm not, I'm half Alolan. I've been swimming since I was three, besides if you do drown I'll just kiss you back to life." he said, giving her a wink. She let out a groan, splashing the boy in the face.
"Come on, don't make fun of me!"
"Alright alright, take my hand." he said, holding his hand out to the girl. She wrapped her hand around his, allowing the boy to pull her deeper into the water. She started to float a bit, her feet barely touching the sand.
"Um...Jack?"
"Trust me...Artemis is right here, we're just going to do a warm up okay? You see that rock over there? Let's swim toward it. We'll do a few laps, and once you're ready we'll start with the resistance training." he said. She nodded, stretching her arms a bit.
"I'm ready."
"Awesome, let's go! Artemis stick close to us!"
"Prii!"
xxx
Hours had passed, the sun was starting to go down over Hano Beach. Jack and Cynthia had spent a good amount of the day swimming around the beach. He had been able to teach her he to swim underwater. She had been a good swimmer before, but now she had gotten even better than she had been before. She was practically gliding through the water, almost like a true Alolan. The two had convinced Lillie to come out and swim with them, but since her leg wasn't as good as it used to, she had harder time keeping up. The three trainers had long since gotten out of the water, having enjoyed themselves immensely. The three trainers were laying on their towels, staring out at the rapidly darkening skies.
"You know girls, I had fun today. Watching Cynthia swimming around, gliding through the water, and seeing Lillie forget her worries and act like a kid...it was awesome. I even got some great pics of the ocean."
"I'm happy too...it's been forever since I was able to fully use my body like that. I've used muscles I haven't used in years!" Cynthia said happily.
"I wish my leg wasn't messed up, I used to be a fast swimmer too. I can't even feel my leg when I swim for more than an hour." Lillie said, a disappointed tone in her voice.
"It's alright Lil, I'm sure your leg will heal in time. I'm sure there are some balms or something that you can use to fix it."
"Speaking of that, I remember there being a shop somewhere that sold a miracle medicine. It was capable of healing injuries in both people and Pokemon...but I forget what it was called." Cynthia said, sitting up in her seat.
"I think I know what it is...it's called Secret Potion, it's a locally made Potion in Johto. Cianwood city in fact, since its the only place that sells it, you'll have to go there personally to get it. Ah...don't even worry about it, your leg will heal naturally. And if it doesn't, that's okay too...you'll be just fine." Jack said cheerfully.
"I know...I just want to be able to run without shooting pain. In case something happens to Nebby."
"What would happen to Nebby?" Cynthia asked curiously. Jack looked at his friend, giving her a nod.
"I think it's time you told her about Nebby, and the Aether Foundation."
"Okay...I've been waiting to tell you for awhile. I trust Cynthia so I'll tell her everything. Would you mind if I told her in private?" she asked.
The boy nodded, standing up from his seat. He walked away from the two girls, heading to where their Pokemon were relaxing. Various holes littered the beach, from Gabite and Ruffy's digging contest, all while Snowball and Eevee struggled to fill them back up. Lillie's Wimpod had dug a small cave for itself and had been hiding there most of the day, at least until Doku found it and started scaring the poor Pokemon, leading it to find another place to hide. Sadly, Doku was a persistent Pokemon. He smiled fondly at their group of Pokemon, seeing how far they had come in the short amount of time they had traveled.
"Did you guys have fun today?" he asked, earning loud cries from his team.
"I enjoyed myself immensely. This beach is beautiful, I felt all of the stress just melt away in the water." Fay said happily.
"Ruff ruff!" Ruffy cried, jumping into Jack's arms, his tail wagging happily.
"I see you enjoy yourself too...say, did you get any good pictures Star?" he asked, glancing at the Fruit Pokemon, who had her back turned to him.
"You know, she's been ignoring us for awhile now...I don't know what she's doing over there, but I know she was looking for a stick earlier." Fay said, earning a giggle from Doku.
"Mare Mar Marenie!"
"Ew, why would she do that? Do you know how uncomfortable that would be? And with a stick? Imagine the splinters!"
"I don't even want to know what that Poisonous starfish even said. I'll go check on her." the young trainer said, walking past his Pokemon, kneeling down next to Star, who looked up at him with a small smile.
"Nee Steenee Nee!" she cried, stepping aside, allowing him to see what she had been looking at.
"What the heck is this?" he asked, confused at what he was looking at.
"Mukeo?"
Jack was looking at a rather interesting Pokemon. It wasn't very big, about the size of a cucumber in fact. It was completely black in color, with small pink appendages on its back. It also had a small white puffball on its back end. It had a white star shaped mouth and two beady pink eyes. The young trainer blinked in confusion, reaching into his pocket for his Pokedex.
"Pyukumuku, the Sea Cucumber Pokemon. It likes living in shallow areas, and can eject its internal organs as a defense mechanism. Its body is often times covered in a sticky mucous that allows it to slip out of the hands of predators. As Pyukumuku often times die on shore, a tradition known as Pyukumuku Chuckin has started up, where people throw these Pokemon back into the sea. However, they wash up on the beach on the following day."
"That's a pretty cool Pokemon...did you throw it into the ocean?"
"Nee." Star cried, shaking her head. The boy grabbed a hold of the small Pokemon, causing it to squirm in his hands.
"Puku Puku Pu!" it cried.
"It said that it doesn't want to leave the beach without Mukiet, his name is Mukeo, and his mate was tossed into the sea." Fay said.
"Aw, that's so sad." Cynthia said, startling the boy, who almost dropped the Pyukumuku onto the sand.
"We should look around the beach for Mukiet! If it was tossed into the ocean it might have washed back onto the shore!" Lillie cried.
"Hey, that's not a bad idea kids...I'll take this half of the beach, Jack you take the other side of the beach. Lillie and Cynthia take this side, Artemis dear, would you mind looking in the water for Mukiet?" Leilani asked, earning a salute from the sea lion, who quickly dove into the water, disappearing from sight.
"Okay, let's go Mukeo, we'll find your mate!" Jack said, a smile on his face. The Pyukumuku wiggled in his hand for a second, before its innards shot out, in the shape of a thumbs up. Fay snapped a picture of the act, grinning inwardly to herself.
Jack started walking back toward the other side of the beach. This part of it had long since been empty. Not a lot of people had come to it during the day, choosing to stay on the other side where the waiters could take their orders. While most people staying there were alright, there were snooty rich folk that he didn't really get along with. It reminded him a lot of his father's clients back in Lumiose City, and all of the meetings he had to sit on to "Learn the tools of the trade" as he said. He shook his head, glancing at the sand, eyes widening a bit. He saw several Pyukumuku on the sand, all of them wriggling around aimlessly. He let out a disgruntled sigh.
"This is gonna be a lot harder than I thought."
"Mukeo Muke!"
"He said that he knows Mukiet's cry. If you take him to the other Pyukumuku he'll be able to find her with ease." Fay said, earning a nod from Jack. He approached the nearest one, holding Mukeo out to it.
"So, is this one your Mukiet?" he asked. Mukeo's innards shot out, the fist bearing a thumbs down. Jack, while grossed out for the moment, decided it best to take the Pyukumuku and gently place it in the water.
"Alright, next one!"
As the sun started sinking lower beneath the horizon, Jack continued speaking to all of the Pyukumuku. Mukeo hadn't found his love yet, so he had Fay use her psychic powers to gentle place the Pokemon back into the ocean. Half an hour had passed by now, and he had cleared the beach of Pyukumuku. He leaned back against the rocky wall that separated the resort from the beach, holding Mukeo close to himself.
"I can't believe it...forty-four Pyukumuku and none of them were Mukiet."
"Mukeo Muku Muke!"
"Don't worry, we'll find your mate." Fay said gently, petting the Sea Cucumber. Jack brushed his sweaty locks out of his eyes.
"Let's meet with the others, we might as well check to see if they found her." Jack said, heading back toward the other side of the beach.
By now, only a few people were still on the beach, mostly workers and people packing up for the night. Since it was a private beach, the people that stayed in the resort were allowed to be on the beach at night, but most of them were tired from being on it during the day. The boy had been tempted to start a huge bon-fire and stay the night there, but he was sure the staff wouldn't allow him too. He ran the rest of the way, meeting up with his mother and his friends.
"Did you find Mukiet?" Lillie asked curiously. The boy shook his head, a frown on his face.
"We looked all over the place, there were forty-four other Pyukumuku but none of them were Mukiet. What about you? Did you find any?"
"I found six of them, but none of them were Mukiet. Artemis and Doku came back from the sea, but even they couldn't find her." Cynthia replied, having crossed her arms in disdain.
"It's a shame...two lovers shouldn't be apart like this. The poor thing, I'm sure we'll find Mukiet soon enough." Leilani said, taking the Pyukumuku from Jack's hand.
"Mukeo Mu Muke." the Sea Cucumber cried out, a disappointed tone in his voice.
"He said that it doesn't matter if he finds her. The part time Pyukumuku Chucker will just toss her back into the water. They're destined to be separated forever." Fay said, translating what the Pokemon had said.
"Well that's stupid! We can't just let someone keep throwing Mukiet out into the sea all the time!"
"But Jack, if Pyukumuku aren't brought back to the sea, they'll dry out and die." Lillie said worriedly, earning a sigh from the boy.
"That's true...that's a horrible fate that no one deserves to face." Leilani added, a frown on her face. They heard the soft crunching of sand not far from them, and looked up seeing a beautiful young woman, dressed in a white bikini, holding a Pyukumuku in her hands. She stopped before them, a small smile on her face.
"The worker told me there was a group looking for a lost Pyukumuku. Are you the ones who have Mukeo?" she asked curiously.
"Yeah, is that Mukiet?" Jack replied, earning a nod from the woman.
"It is, I've been searching this beach all day for Mukeo. These two have become a bit of a mascot here in the resort. Two lovers that are always torn apart, but they always come back to each other. It's a shame that they're split up all the time...anyway, here's Mukiet. I'm sure she's dying to be with her beloved again." the woman said, placing Mukiet in Jack's hand. Leilani handed him Mukeo, the two Pokemon crying happily.
"Aw look at that...they're so cute!" Cynthia said, a bright smile on her face. Fay took the chance, snapping a picture of the reunited couple.
"I agree, but now that they're together...they'll be separated again." Lillie said, instantly they all became sad. Leilani let out a giggle, reaching into her purse.
"Well, I think I have a way to prevent that from happening." she said, pulling out two Love Balls from within. Jack looked at them with surprise, unable to say anything. He held out the two Pokemon, who were tapped with the Pokeballs and sucked inside. They gave little resistance, allowing themselves to be captured.
"I get it...by capturing both of them, they'll be together forever. That's so sweet of you Miss Leila! You are an awesome person!" Cynthia said happily.
"Yeah, good on you mom...I wouldn't have thought of that." Jack said, scratching his neck.
"It just came to me, you know? My brother has an aquarium in his house, so I'll leave them with him. They'll live happily ever after, in a place where they'll never be separated."
"I hope you take good care of them miss. People will miss those two, but I believe this is the best thing for them." the woman replied.
"Don't you worry, I'll make sure they are well taken care of. Well kids, I think its time to head back inside. We gotta wash all of that salt off ourselves. We got a hot tub too, so you can use it all you want."
"I'm down for that...nothing like soaking in a hot tub after a long day of running and swimming."
"You just want an excuse to keep looking at me and Lillie you perv." Cynthia said, earning a laugh from the boy. Lillie flushed, allowing her hair to cover her reddening face.
"Now you're just putting words in my mouth Cindy, you two look cute, sure. But I don't want either of you to feel uncomfortable. If you want to change into something else when we get up there that's fine." he said.
"Aw, that's so sweet of you. Honestly, I think I might just take a nap after being in the sun all day. What are your plans for tomorrow son? Training all day?" Leilani asked, as she handed Jack the cooler. Thankfully, he had already recalled all of his Pokemon, so he didn't have much trouble with it.
"Most likely, I've been using Fay in a lot of my trials. I need to train my team equally if I want to make it to the top. So I'll be heading to Diglett's Tunnel bright and early. It only takes about twenty minutes to reach Route 9, so I'll be training there for most of the day." Jack replied.
"I'm going to the Dimensional Research Lab, Professor Burnet has a lot of interesting books. Since I'm interested in mythology, I want to read up on the various legends of Alola. Maybe I can help the Professor make a new discovery or something." Cynthia said.
"What about you Lillie? What will you be doing?" Leilani asked curiously.
"Um...if it's okay with Jack, I want to train with him. Snowball, Robin and Winston need a bit of training."
"I don't mind at all...if you're up for the walk that is." he replied, earning a nod from the girl.
"Excellent, that means I get to sleep all day...I mean browse the local stores in Heahea City."
"Oh mom...were you always this lazy?" Jack asked, a look of annoyance on his face. Leilani gave him a grin.
"Considering I'm still unpacking at home, yes...I've always been this lazy. But when I'm raising you, I buckle down and get things done. Now come on, let's hurry upstairs."
"Hey Jack, how heavy is that cooler?" Cynthia asked curiously, causing the boy to cock his head to the side.
"Not that heavy, why?"
"I just wanted to see if you could run with it."
"Huh? Why?"
"Because, it's time for your birthday punches! Fourteen and one for good luck!"
"No...Cindy don't, please! Mom!"
"You better run dear!"
"I hate you!" Jack cried, as he was forced to run from the peppy blonde. He knew there was no stopping her, all he could do was pray she didn't punch his throwing arm.
Current Pokemon:
Jack:
Fay (Gardevoir) Female: Held Item: Gardevoirite: Known Moves: Moonblast, Psychic, Thunderbolt, Shadow Ball
Artemis (Primarina) Female: Known Moves: Sparkling Aria, Acrobatics, Bubblebeam, Aqua Jet
Doku (Mareanie) Female: Known Moves: Poison Sting, Sludge Bomb, Water Pulse, Toxic
Melody (Meloetta)Female: Known Moves: Unknown
Star (Steenee) Female: Known Moves: Payback, Fairy Wind, Grass Knot, Magical Leaf
Ruffy (Rockruff) Male: Known Moves: Rock Throw, Stone Edge, Bite, Tackle
(Z-Cystals)
Z-Move: Breakneck Blitz: Normalium Z (Status: Unused)
Z-Move: Gigavolt Havoc: Electrium Z (Status: Destroyed)
Z-Move: All Out Pummeling: Fightinium Z (Status: Unused)
Z-Move: Supersonic Skystrike: Flyinium Z(Status: In Use)
Z-Move: Hydro Vortex: Waterium Z (Status: Unused)
Z-Move: Splintered Stormshards: Lycanium Z (Status: Unused)
Z-Move: Inferno Overdrive: Firium Z (Status: Unused)
Z-Movie: Bloom Doom: Grassium Z (Status: Unused)
Cynthia:
Gabite: (No Nickname) Gender: Male: Known Moves: Dragon Rage, Sandstorm, Dragon Claw, Dig
Shellos (West Sea) (No Nickname)Male: Known Moves: Mud Slap, Water Gun
Eevee (No Nickname) (Shiny) Gender: Male, Known Moves: Swift, Dig, Tackle, Helping Hand
Comfey (No Nickname) Gender: Female: Known Moves: Unknown
(Z-Crystals)
Z-Move: Devastating Drake: Dragonium Z (Status: In Use)
Z-Move: Bloom Doom: Grassium Z (Status: Unused)
Lillie:
Nebby (Cosmog)Genderless(Prefers Female Pronouns)Known Moves: Splash
Snowball: (Alolan Vulpix)Female: Known Moves: Roar, Icy Wind, Confuse Ray, Ice Shard
Fletchling: (No Nickname)Male: Known Moves: Flame Carge, Tackle, Wing Attack, Peck
Wimpod: (No Nickname) Male: Known Moves: Unknown