"Ha." Professor Kukui said as he did some dance moves in front of the class, confusing them.

"Uh Professor, what was that for?" Ash asked.

Nebby, still resting in Sarah's arms, babbled and clapped happily for Professor Kukui's dance as he cleared his throat and then explained what today's lesson would be for his class. "I was thinking about having you all do a little Pokemon dance," he told them.

Ash was confused and so were the others, "What's a Pokemon dance?"

"I'm confused, is it a kind of dance that Pokemon do?" Lillie asked curiously.

"What do you mean by having us do a little Pokemon dance, Professor?" put in Sarah as she rubbed Nebby's head.

"I want you kids to come up with some dance choreography with your Pokemon Partners and have them demonstrate. Similar to what Sarah and her Pokemon did at the end of the Pokemon Open House with that fantastic musical performance," Professor Kukui elaborated. "Simple, right?"

That got them interested and they remembered how Sarah and her Pokemon pulled off quite a performance that night. "Oh, wow! Sounds like fun," perked up Mallow. But, Sophocles was curious about what they should do for their latest lesson.

"Professor, are we allowed to use any props?" he asked.

"Yes, of course," smiled Professor Kukui. "If it helps to bring out your Pokemon's character, then I'm good with that."

He then turned to Sarah with a knowing smile. "That means you and your Pokemon are going to have to come up with something that can top your previous musical performance, Sarah," he challenged. Sarah nodded, knowing what she must do for this lesson.

"Even if I'll have to embarrass myself again?" muttered Silvally quietly as Aqua nudged him slightly while Lolita soothed him.

"Sounds good to me," Kiawe smiled before he turned to Pyroar, who was interested in the idea of dancing. Ever since Sarah and her Pokemon's closing Open House performance, he and the rest of the others' Pokemon partners looked into dancing and wanted to try it out themselves. "Pyroar, show everyone the spirit of Wela Volcano with dance!"

"Roar!" Pyroar roared proudly with a smile towards his partner.

Sarah chuckled, "Hmm... now which Pokémon should I use?"

Sarah turned to her Pokemon as she thought. She and her Pokemon were obviously not going to recycle the same routine they used before and that was already a challenging and daunting performance they pulled off despite how much fun they had.

Lana looked towards Popplio, also looking forward to creating a Pokemon dance. "So, shall we?" she asked her Water Type, who clapped with excitement.

Ash and Pikachu warmed up to the idea as well. "Well, buddy, let's come up with something awesome, too!" "Pika!" they agreed happily.

"Hey, Steenee, doesn't that sound like a lot of fun?" "Steenee!" Mallow and her Steenee replied, wanting to get in on the fun.

"The recital is in three days. So, until then, do your best!" encouraged Professor Kukui. The students and their Pokemon all agreed, "Right!"

"Brionne! Brionne!" Aqua cheered happily.

"Hehe, you're excited aren't you, Aqua?" Sarah asked with a smile. Aqua nodded and the two little Espurr's called out too, "Espurr..."

"Let's get ready to be part of some serious Pokemon dancing fever, folks! YEAH!"


(Opening 3 – Rurouni Kenshin Opening 1 – Freckles (English Dub)

(The opening begins with a silhouette of a young girl with a Chinese straight sword sheathed in a gold scabbard sitting within images of Team Rocket, Team Skull, Guzma and Plumeria, the three mysterious grunts, and the grunts' leader before the image brightens and the girl is left alone)

(The girl gets up and awakens to reveal herself as Sarah as she and her Pokémon are on a large boat as it sailed across the ocean to one of the other Islands of Alola. While some of her Pokémon are relaxing on the boat ride, Silvally, Lolita, Blitz, and Red Eyes look out into the ocean with determined looks on their faces with their trainer)

I brush against the freckles that I hated so and life goes on but I heave a little sigh for you. It's heavy, the love that I would share with you. Then it dissolves like it was just a sugar cube!

(Ash and Pikachu were shown at the Pokémon School trying to practice the steps to a new Z-Attack until they missed or exaggerated a few steps and fell down on the ground. Lana, Mallow, and Sophocles, who were with them along with their Pokémon Partners, either laughed at or groaned at them. Ash and Pikachu smiled sheepishly as the scene pans from the school to the beach near the school)

Now, the little pain sitting in my heart has shrunken a bit but it really does hurt me now. Those silly horoscopes, I guess I can't trust them after all~!

(Kiawe was there with Pyroar and Turtonator as he commanded a Double Flamethrower and gave a satisfied smirk as his partners landed on either side of him as he then looked to his right)

If we could get further away~! I wonder what it would be li-i-i-i-i-ke, yeah~!

(The scene pans to Lillie looking out her backyard from her mansion with Snowy as she had a happy look on her face before they turned to their left in surprise)

I'd be so happy inside my hea-a-a-a-a-a-art!

(Sarah and her Pokémon are surrounded by mysterious grunts and a small team of people in white uniforms as she held a strange cosmic-like Pokémon in her left arm and the Sword of the Sun Lion on her right hand as she was then attacked by a mystery grunt's Houndoom and its Flamethrower attack)

All the memories I have are beautiful in my mind!

(A Thunderbolt appears and blocks the Flamethrower to reveal Zeraora as the Thunderclap Pokémon shielded her)

But, they don't feed the hunger deep inside my soul!

(Silvally, Lolita, and the Puppy Pair use Tri Attack, Dark Pulse, and Double Rock Slide to beat their foes getting to Sarah)

And, tonight, I thought I'd be just sitting in my sorrow!

(Ponyta and Wooloo attack together with Electro Ball and Moonblast while Aqua and Milotic use Bubblebeam and Dragon Pulse before Candy and Blitz joined forces to use Thundershock and Signal Beam at their own enemies)

And now, I must wonder why, what did it really mean to you?

(Sarah appears and opens her eyes as she saw her family and friends, humans and Pokémon alike, waiting happily for her to join them as she walks to them. The Season 2 titles appear just as the song ends)

I just can't see it anymore~! I just can't see it anymore~! O-o-o-o-o-oh~!

Pokémon Alola Journey – The Trials of Sarah


It was evening by the time school was out for the day and Sarah decided to spend some time with Mallow as they worked to prepare their individual dance routines with their Pokemon for the upcoming recital. Aqua was the most excited out of all of Sarah's Pokemon as she rode on her favorite spot on Milotic's head, much to the Tender Pokemon's amusement; since she's now in her secondary form, as a Pop Star Pokemon, she wanted to dance and shine in the spotlight.

"Aqua sure seems excited about the upcoming dance recital," Mallow smiled as she and Sarah looked at her.

"What did you expect? She's now the Pop Star Pokemon just like Ida's Brionne," Sarah chuckled as she watched her Alolan Water Type continue to cheer. She then looked to the Espurr pair as they joined her. "Even the Espurr pair want to dance again ever since our Open House musical performance."

"Aww.. that'll be so cute.." Mallow said happily.

"Steenee!" Steenee agreed.

"So, what are you and Steenee going to come up for the recital, Mallow?" Sarah asked. "That's what we need to figure out," she replied. "You and your Pokemon obviously put on a great show for us at the Open House. We're all going to have to figure out how to match or top that with whatever choreography we come up with."

"So, I guess my performance must've set the bar up high for where you'll be going with your dances," Sarah said.

"That will be what we're going for," Mallow agreed. "Professor Kukui must've been inspired by your and your Pokemon's performance to give us this lesson."

"I guess he did," Sarah replied. "If we're going to pass this lesson, we'll need to be creative at that."

"Brionne.." Aqua said happily.

"Espurrr..." the two Espurrs smiled together. Mallow and Sarah smiled at the Espurr Pair and Aqua, it was clear those three couldn't wait to start dancing as soon as possible. Steenee, however, was so eager to dance, she couldn't hold in her excitement and decided to run towards a familiar figure who might know what ideas to give her and Mallow for their dance for the recital. Mallow and Sarah were surprised when they heard Steenee cheer and run off without them and Sarah's Pokemon.

"Steenee!" Mallow cried as she and Sarah chased after her with Sarah's Pokemon family running from behind.

"Where are you going, Steenee? Wait!" Sarah called to the cheerful Fruit Pokemon.

The Grass Type, however, was running so far ahead of then as she gained an early head start to find anyone who could give them ideas for a dance while the girls and Sarah's Pokemon trailed behind. They chased her across the market street in town, unknowingly passing Team Rocket who are still failing in their masalada business before they finally stopped at Ms. Alena's berry shop as she was finishing her rounds for the day.

"Steenee! Stop wandering off without me, especially when we have company!" Mallow smiled, relieved that she and Sarah caught up with her.

"Anela!" "Ms. Alena!" "Steenee, Steenee!" Mallow, Sarah, and Steenee greeted, surprised and happy to see the Berry Woman again.

"Alola, Steenee, girls!" Ms. Anela replied happily as the Espurr Pair and Aqua joined their Grass Type friend in front of her. "And, Alola to you too, Aqua, Espurrs! You four are so energetic today!"

"Here you go," she said as she gave them some berries to eat: a Pecha Berry for Steenee, two Oran Berries for the Espurr Pair, and a Sitrus Berry for Aqua. The four Pokemon happily ate their berries, the thought of the dance recital still on their minds.

"Thanks a lot, Anela," Mallow thanked. "My pleasure," Anela smiled before she grew curious.

"Now, what's gotten your four Pokemon in such a bright mood? They must be really happy about something, I hope."

"Professor Kukui wants us to make up a dance and present it to the class, Steenee, Aqua and the Espurrs are thrilled to start practicing for it." Sarah explained with a smile.

"We've been assigned to make dances for a dance recital three days from today and we're going to create our own choreography with our Pokemon for our own individual dances until then," Mallow added.

"Ah, I remember, Professor Kukui told me earlier that he was inspired to come up with that lesson for you through you and your Pokemon's dance performance at the Open House, Sarah," Anela said brightly as Steenee showed her thanks by doing what looked like a Hawaiian hula dance, much to Aqua, Mallow, Sarah, and the Espurr's confusion.

"My, expressing thanks with an Alola Hula," chuckled Anela as she watched Steenee.

"Alola Hula?" "What's the Alola Hula?" puzzled the two girls, who had never heard of such a dance before.

"Oh, I'm not surprised you two wouldn't know about it. It's an Alolan dance that dates back to ancient times, especially during the days of the Alolan Monarchy. The royal families over the years enjoyed it as much as their subjects do when they were first introduced to it. The word, 'hula', actually means dance."

"Whoa..." Sarah and Mallow awed as they thought about it. "You two and your Pokemon will understand better if I show you. Oricorio, let's go!" Anela called to her chosen Pokemon, that looked like a bird dressed in a Hawaiian hula costume and who danced the Alola Hula with grace and elegance. Steenee, the Espurr Pair, and Aqua were entranced by Alena's Oricorio's dancing that they decided to follow along while Sarah and Mallow watched in amazement. Even a few people visiting the market for last-minute shopping stopped to see the small show happening before them.

"Wow!" Mallow awed. Anela smiled again.

"Now, why don't you try it?" "Thanks, Ms. Anela, but I need to come up with my own dance. I'll definitely think about it, though," Sarah politely declined.

"That's alright, Sarah, dearie," Anela accepted. "Good luck with your dance!"

"See ya, Mallow," Sarah said and she and her Pokemon left. Mallow agreed and waved goodbye, "Bye, Sarah!"

"Bye Mallow, come you guys." Sarah called happily and her pokemon family followed her as they made their way towards the house. While they were walking down the path Blitz's ears perked up at something.

"PIka?"

"Blitz, what is it, bud?" Sarah asked. Blitz leaped down from her shoulder and moved his ears around.

"Pikachu.." and he ran off ahead of them.

"Blitz, wait up!" Sarah called as the others followed her.

"What is that little mouse hearing?" Silvally asked.

When Blitz finally stopped, he arrived at a music and dance studio at the edge of town on the path home. It read, "Unova Dance-Palooza, a dance and music studio for the heart and soul of all things Polkamon." He looked through one of the windows and saw what looked to be three Pokemon that looked like an otter, a piglet, and a tiny grass snake, all of which are playing musical instruments including a flute, a tuba, and bagpipes custom made for them.

They were the three Unova Starters, a male Oshawott, a male Tepig, and a female Snivy. There was also a group of four Oricorio of the Pom-Pom, Baile, Pa'u, and Sensu styles along with six other Pokemon that looked to be the evolved forms of the Unova Starters which included a Pignite and an Emboar, a Dewott and a Samurott, and a Servine and Serperior.

While Servine, Dewott, and Pignite have their own instruments including a snare drum, a triangle, and a custom harp, Samurott, Serperior, and Emboar served as the dancers alongside the four Oricorio to the beat of the music the other six Pokemon played.

Blitz was entranced by this display as Sarah and her Pokemon finally caught up to him. "Blitz! Why'd you run off like that? Do you realize what-huh?" She scolded before she looked through the window and saw the Unova and Alola Pokemon playing and dancing together.

"Whoa... What are they doing?" Sarah gasped as she and her other Pokemon took a peak at the Pokemon music group. "Beats me, but it looks like they're dancing and playing music in this crate," Silvally quipped.

The Espurr Pair and Aqua joined Blitz at the studio window and when they saw the Pokemon playing and dancing to the music inside, the trio were awestruck and enthralled.

The Unova and Alola Pokemon finished their performance and they started to congratulate one another as Sarah and her Pokemon were amazed. "That's what we need to come up!" Sarah said, inspired.

"You're wrong!" cried an angry voice as a middle-aged man appeared with a snobby man.

"Huh?" Sarah and her pokemon turned towards the two men.

It looked as though they were fighting and the middle-aged man was on the end of his tethers with the snobby businessman as they came to the studio from the left.

"If you can't understand what my friends and I are trying to do, then you can take your stupid business proposition and shove it where the sun don't shine!" "Surely, you understand that the people of Alola won't care for your dancing and music other than their own, Richard," snarked the snobby man.

"I know that but I would still be happy to share what my Pokemon and I learned from the Unova Region regarding their music and dance culture to everyone in this region!" the middle-aged man, Richard, snapped.

"Well, it's true Alola can do with a bit of international flare to their culture," replied the snobby man. "We'll definitely look into these matters."

"You mean leave them as is," snarled Richard quietly, rolling his eyes. "Excuse me," the snobby man quipped. "Nothing. Tell me something, Hodgers. If my Pokemon and I don't pay up what we've earned from the recital, what are the chances that you'll take the studio?"

"Barring objections and revisions as to the final contract, within a week after the recital, I'd say. As with what you've come up with, they're most original and imaginative but we'll approve them if any are of our fancy."

"Good," nodded Richard firmly before he went into the dance studio. "Then, we've nothing to say further. Good day, Hodgers." And, he angrily slammed the door while the snobby man, Hodgers, left with a huff and Sarah and her Pokemon looked on, scowling at him.

"Dork," Sarah snarled quietly. Then, they entered the studio to see what they can do to help while Richard slumped down, feeling miserable.

"Oh, who am I kidding, guys?" he groaned to his Pokemon as they comforted him. "I can't come up with a new routine for the recital three days from today. I certainly don't want us to do the kind of dance our boss wanted. Our dance studio will be ruined after all these years!"

"Brionne.." Aqua called.

"Espurr.." the pair added.

"A Brionne and two Espurr?" Richard asked, confused. "What are you doing here?"

"Sorry.." Sarah said as she and her pokemon family came in. "Hello there, Miss." Richard greeted.

"Hi, I'm Sarah. My friends and I heard your small performance outside. Aqua and the Espurr pair loved it." Sarah smiled. Brionne clapped her flippers together happily and the Espurr pair smiled happily, "Espurr..."

Richard smiled, he was glad to have a few friendly faces around after the trouble he recently went through.

"Why, thank you, Sarah. It's good to know that you and your Pokemon appreciate our dance and music," he thanked kindly before he sighed sadly. "That being said, I don't know how long we'll be here until the recital comes and goes."

"What do you mean?" Sarah asked, concerned.

"As you already know, I'm Richard, and this is my Pokemon dance and music squad, the Unova Movers. We're a music group originally based in Nuvema Town until we moved here to start our own music and dance studio and share what we've learned from Unova to the world, starting with Alola."

"Who's the joker trying to put you down so hard?" quizzed Silvally gruffly as Sarah elbowed him. "What Silvally means is who was it giving you a hard time earlier?"

"That was Kerry Hodgers, my business manager. He was the one I was contracted with regarding my dance studio. He's a wealthy broker who's been egging on people who want to start something new in the region but he feels as though they won't catch on, being a member of the Alola Entertainment Committee. Hodgers was badgering me earlier that what my Pokemon and I are working on using Unova music and dance won't catch on even if we have a few people who are interested. He's trying to make things so miserable for me and my pals that we either go out of business or sell the studio to him and put it under his control with no respect for our own creative control."

"He's trying to stamp you out on what you love to do with music and dance?" Sarah gasped in shock. "He's crazy, he can't do that to you all!"

"That's what we think and he should've learned to respect what we're trying to do but he feels that nobody would catch on to what we're creating and we should stick with tradition," sighed Richard. "Oh well, at least it goes without saying, we tried our best."

"Do you think we'll be able to help you with that?" asked Sarah kindly.

Richard stammered, "Oh I couldn't ask you to do that for me."

"Please, we wanna help." Sarah encouraged. Richard sighed, "Not unless you can help me come up with something in three days."

"... Actually.. maybe I can... I have a my own recital for my school assignment due in three days, maybe we can work together to help each other?" Sarah suggested.

"Oh, a student of Professor Kukui, right?" Richard noticed, curiously. "Yeah, I remember seeing you at the Open House. I loved that musical performance you and your Pokemon did, it was something that inspired me to make my dance proposals for the recital. Professor Kukui even asked me to come and make my own dance since he'll be inviting the townsfolk to see us and help contribute to our studio but I don't think that's likely with Hodgers hounding me."

"But, I can't turn down an offer from the girl who's also helped to stop Team Skull from causing trouble there," he smiled finally. "Sarah, you got yourself a deal! With your help, I'm sure to pay him off and keep my studio while allowing ourselves to continue doing what we love with dance and music!"

"Thanks, Richard, I'll see to it that you won't regret it!" Sarah said, smiling back at Richard. "Do you think you and the Unova Movers can show us some of your dance moves for starters?"

"Why, we'd love to! Won't we, guys?" he asked his Pokemon, who happily agreed. "We can even help you with your homework while you're at it. Are you ready to learn the Polkamon for starters?"

Throughout much of the evening, Sarah and her Pokemon worked with Richard on their dancing assignment for the upcoming recital while helping him come up with a dance routine that will help him pay his rent and keep his studio from Hodgers. Sarah may not know it but she found some new friends in Richard and the Unova Movers.

Sarah did contact her parents and told them of the situation and they agreed to let her work with Richard and his Pokémon for her and their dance.

Nikki and James were proud of her, acting just like her birth parents when someone needed help.


The next day, all of the students were about to demonstrate to Professor Kukui their progress in their own dances for the recital to get feedback on what they could do to improve on them. For her dance assignment, she decided to have Aqua and the Espurr Pair take center stage. Their dance was to coincide with the dance routine Richard and the Unova Movers will be doing at the recital.

Lillie and Snowy were up first as the Alolan Vulpix tapped and bounced her paws to Lillie's claps, Professor Kukui was impressed with their starting point. "Hey, very good!" he complemented. Lillie agreed but she felt like she and Snowy needed to make their performance more engaging in a way.

"But, I have a feeling we can be a little more creative," she noted. Professor Kukui smiled as he nodded, "Why not? Why don't you two incorporate a move?"

"A move? Great idea, we'll try just that! Thank you so much, Professor!" Lillie cheered happily as Snowy chirped gleefully in agreement.

Next up was Lana and Popplio with the first steps to their routine. "Popplio, two balloons back to back!" Lana replied as Popplio blew two water balloons from her nose, much to her satisfaction.

Professor Kukui was intrigued by where the two were going when he came to see them. "Wow, you're using her balloons, Lana! That's so Popplio!" he chuckled from their naturalistic approach.

"And, we're only just about halfway there. We'll have just about a lot more to come for our full dance," Lana anticipated. Professor Kukui chuckled again, also in anticipation, "I can't wait to see that!"

Sophocles was planning out his dance, calculating the dance moves Charjabug and Togedemaru will be doing. "I think we'll be able to surprise everybody with these moves," he said as his partner Pokemon got ready. "Togedemaru, Charjabug!"

Professor Kukui smiled from his surprise. "It'll be a great dance! What kind?" he asked.

"Until the recital, my lips are sealed," Sophocles replied, with his Pokemon agreeing with him. "Toge!" "Charj." The others smiled.

"Pyroar, let's burn up with royal beauty like Wela Volcano's flame! And, let it flow through us in our dance!" Kiawe encouraged. Pyroar agreed with a nod and a roar but he accidentally used Flamethrower on his trainer as he panicked and tried to put him out until he was forced to call for Popplio or Aqua for help.

Sarah noticed this and was quick to react, "Oh no! Aqua, help Pyroar with water gun on Kiawe!"

"Brionne! Br-r-r-r-i-i-i-i-i-i!" Aqua called as she managed to put out Kiawe in time as he and Pyroar sighed in relief, the Royal Pokemon sheepishly apologizing to his trainer for getting a little carried away.

"Thanks, Sarah..." groaned Kiawe with a smile as she and Aqua waved happily in appreciation. "Don't mention it." "Bri!"

Professor Kukui even had to admit that Kiawe and Pyroar were a little hot under the collar. "You two gotta be more careful when playing with fire for your dance," he chuckled sheepishly.

"Right," groaned Kiawe again as Pyroar rubbed his back in apology.

Then, it was Ash's turn as he and his team were trying to figure out how to begin their routine. "And, as for you, Ash, what kind of dance do you think they'll do?" Kukui asked in interest.

Ash and his Pokemon initially showed off a tower of power but despite their best efforts, Kukui wasn't impressed so far and his team crashed and burned as they all fell on top of each other.

Professor Kukui then decided to see how Mallow and Steenee are getting on with their dance, which they decided was the Alola Hula that Anela and her Oricorio demonstrated the previous night. "And, how are you two getting on, Mallow?" he asked curiously.

"We decided on the Alola Hula, right, Steenee?" Mallow explained, Steenee agreeing with a bow after finishing her routine.

"Alola Hula, huh? Looks like you're really onto something, I'll be looking forward to it!" Professor Kukui smiled.

"Thanks, Professor!" "Steenee Nee!" Mallow and Steenee cheered. Finally, it was Sarah's turn as he came to her.

"So Sarah any idea on your routine?"

"Well, we worked with a guy named Richard and his music and dance group, the Unova Movers, on a routine we eventually agreed on called, 'On my way home'," she told him as she watched Aqua and the Espurr Pair dance in complete unison and coordination.

"It's to coincide with a surprise dance routine that we'll be helping him with. We're also incorporating the Alola Hula in it."

"'On my way home', huh? I like the creative approach to that, I'd love to see it when you finish it," Professor Kukui smiled again before he got curious. "By any chance, Sarah, I don't suppose you knew Richard Stanier when you worked with him last night, did you?"

"Yeah, he actually told me you invited him to create a dance routine of his own and come and perform at the recital. You two know each other?" Professor Kukui nodded fondly,

"Oh yeah, we know each other very well. He's an old friend of mine when I was traveling in the Unova Region for a research trip three years ago. He's a lively guy and had such a deep love for music and dance that he decided to become a full-time dance and music teacher. I've always admired his work and he'd always find time to share them with me. I was a little concerned when he told me that Hodgers showed up to put him out of business and shut down his studio since he found his works, as he obviously labeled, 'most original and imaginative'."

"You know who the dork is that badgered him yesterday, Professor?"

"Yes, Hodgers is a high-ranking member of the Alola Entertainment Committee. But, his opinions and developments on what entertainment should be in any special events whenever the Entertainment Committee is called into assist are not shared by all despite the influence he has on much of the board of directors there. Richard and I never saw eye to eye with him since he was always a stickler for tradition, hates what he sees as strange and unauthentic, and will always put down creativity for something only he wants."

Sarah nodded, feeling bad for Richard.

"I was hoping that the Pokemon Dance Recital for your assignments could also be used as a fundraiser to help raise money to help him save his studio and embrace his creative freedom again but it's a lot of for me to do and we don't have much time..." Professor Kukui pondered worriedly.

Sarah realized how severe the situation is for Richard. Hodgers always favored tradition and authentication and that made him sound like he doesn't want a part of Alola's culture and tradition to phase out in favor of something new and innovative with bringing something a bit different, more interesting, more engaging, and most of all, more fun.

What Richard and his Pokemon are doing is completely defying Kerry's traditionalist expectations and the snobby man didn't take too kindly for what he wants to give to people in Alola.

"Sounds like he would rather snuff out anything that he thinks is unorthodox and more fun and make certain things from Alola's culture become an obligation," Sarah deduced, concerned.

"And, that's what I was afraid of," confirmed Kukui. "I'm worried that over time, the traditional dance and music culture would one day become a burden or an excuse to not try anything new or worse, something that causes anxiety rather than joy for most people.

That's one of the reasons why I wanted Richard to take this chance and perform for everybody at the recital, to show people in Alola his own talents for dance and music. Something new for them to enjoy, something that will show them that it's okay to try something new and break from tradition if needed."

Sarah understood; now she wanted to help Richard more than ever but she didn't know how. Even her friends, hearing the whole thing while they were still practicing, were also concerned for her new friend and wanted to help but they don't have any ideas as to how they could do it.

That was, until...

"Mind if a friend of yours and I make a suggestion?" a familiar man's voice rang out. Everyone turned to the owner and saw Hala smiling to everyone as he entered the school. "I'm quite certain it's a good one that can solve your friend's problem."

"Hey there, Hala, what a surprise! Didn't expect you to drop by," Professor Kukui greeted until he and Sarah noticed a familiar woman with a Primarina entering alongside him. Kukui's smile brightened while Sarah's jaw dropped as they recognized the woman and the Primarina.

"Raine, Primarina! Wow, how long has it been since you both graduated from here? Welcome back!"

"Glad to be back, Professor," smiled Raine as she looked to Sarah and Aqua. "Hi, Sarah, Aqua! Practicing for Professor Kukui's dance recital, I see, good on you."

"Raine!" Sarah cried happily. Aqua was ecstatic as Primarina came to her and she and the little Pop Star Pokemon shared a hug. Ash and the others are also delightfully surprised to see the Primarina Trainer again. "Hi, Raine!" "Vul, Vul, Vulpix!" Snowy and Lillie greeted excitedly.

"How've you been, Raine? It's been weeks since we last met you!" Kiawe said in delight. "Oh, the usual. Just training for another future Battle Royale and a bit of exploring around Alola and swimming," Raine told the group.

"Primarina and I came to Melemele Island for a visit and we bumped into Hala. We also heard about Richard's predicament and we have an idea on you could help him and complete your homework." She handed Sarah a flyer but Sarah was puzzled when she saw the advertised event.

"What's this?" "The annual Hau'oli City Pokemon Music & Dance Festival," Hala explained much to the Alola Kids' surprise.

"The Hau'oli City Pokemon Music & Dance Festival?!" Mallow, Kiawe, Lillie, Sophocles, and Lana gasped as they also read the flyer in Sarah's hands before bright smiles broke out of their faces. "The festival's starting tomorrow?" Lana asked gleefully. "That's perfect for us and Richard! Why didn't we think of that before?" Sophocles realized with delight. "You know, Hala, Raine... I think you two might be onto something," Professor Kukui realized as a bright smile came to his face. But, Ash was confused by the festival that was advertised on the flyer as he never heard of it.

"But, how's this festival great for us and Richard, Hala, Raine?" Ash asked the Melemele Kahuna and the Primarina Trainer.

"The festival draws thousands of people across Alola and around the world each year and there will be tons of people who will want to take dance lessons and show everyone what dances they've learned," Hala explained again. "It'll give Richard and the Unova Movers the opportunity to show everyone their unique style of dance and music and allow you to hold the dance recital for your assignments so people will see what your dances with your Pokemon are," Raine added.

"You'll complete your extracurricular activity and you'll have much of the money donated to Richard and his dance studio."

"Awesome! That'll give Richard the means to pay off Hodgers and he'll keep his studio!" Sarah replied, now realizing the solution behind Raine and Hala's idea.

"I'd love to tell Richard about it, he and his Pokemon are gonna totally flip!" "Mm-hmm, you should let him know right away, Sarah," Hala nodded with a smile. "There are cash prizes for the beginner, intermediate, advanced, and optional dance recital contests. Your dance and those of your friends will serve as demonstrations before his own."

"Great! His money and publicity worries are over, Professor!" Sarah replied happily to Professor Kukui.

"I'm sure he'll love to hear that, Hala, Raine! Thank you so much," he thanked.

"No problem." they both said in unison.

As soon as school was out for the day, Sarah, her friends, Professor Kukui, Hala, and Raine all worked hard to spread the word about the Hau'oli City Pokemon Music & Dance Festival, even going as far as to alert citizens from the other three islands to attend the event while getting some people, who have access to computers or any other digital media to send adverts about the festival to people from other regions to come and attend the celebration.

While Ash and the others advertised the event with their Pokemon's help and continued to practice their dances, Sarah, Hala, Professor Kukui, and Raine, joined by Primarina, Hala's Hariyama, and Sarah's Pokemon went to Richard's studio to tell him the news.

They found Richard and the Unova Movers practicing again as they worked to perfect their own routine for the recital the following day. Richard was surprised when he saw who came through the door but he smiled brightly. "Kukui, Hala, Raine, Sarah! How marvelous it is to see you!"

"Hello, Richard, so nice to see you and the Unova Movers doing well," Hala smiled.

"So far, I'm afraid things have been going slow for us," sighed Richard sorrowfully as his Pokemon comforted him, feeling the same way. "I'm not sure if anybody in Alola would accept and appreciate my work in trying to reinvent the region's traditional dancing and musical norms with what's been done in the others regions like my old Unova. I guess I'll have to sell the studio and become a subsidiary to Hodgers if I can't pay him off."

"But, you can't quit now, Richard! Your goal to share what you've learned with dance and music from Unova has always been your dream, right?" Sarah begged.

"For years since I became inspired by several music and dance troupes while I was on my Pokemon journey, I've always been able to share my own styles of music and dance with the Unova Movers," he agreed. "I wanted to help some people break from tradition before it became so teething but I guess it was never meant to be."

"Richard, you can't give up on your dream yet." Sarah stated. "Or else it won't come true. "

(Believe in Your Dream - Sofia the First)

Sarah: When you draw your big plans, but they all go astray And your thinking its time to just throw them away Well a dream is a promise that you make to yourself So don't leave it laying way up on some shelf Believe in your dream do the best you can do. Don't let it go and it just may come true Let your dream light your way, till you reach a better day Believe in your dream, like I believe in you.

When you're in the dark, feeling lost in the night... Let your dream be the spark, simply follow its light! Richard: I'll believe in my dream with all of my heart, I won't let go, I'll make a new start. Sarah: Let your dream light your way, Richard: 'Til I reach a better day!

Sarah: Believe in your dream, like I believe...

Richard: I believe...

Sarah: I believe... In you!

Richard was deeply moved but he was still overcome by his sadness and self-doubt, "I appreciate your concern, Sarah. You may be right but I'm afraid it won't be enough for me and my Pokemon to keep my dream alive."

"Don't say that, Richard! You can't give up on your dream no matter what anybody else says!" pleaded Sarah. "You were doing your best despite what Hodgers told you yesterday and so were the Unova Movers, you can't let him keep pressuring you to give up on your dream! Not after all the hard work you did to get to where you are now!"

"Huh?" Richard was surprised.

He had pretty much given up on his dream but his first new friend was persistent in helping him achieve that goal. Even his old friend, Raine, and Hala were just as determined to help him keep on his feet.

"I may not have had a dream for some time but I've been dreaming about a moment in time when we can all live peacefully with Pokemon just as you and I have with our own; no wars, no conflict, no misunderstandings between us, just humans and Pokemon living in complete cooperation and harmony. Even though the journey isn't easy, I'm going to do what I can to make it a reality. Please, Richard, don't give up on your dream and those who will believe in you including me, not when you're so close to achieving it!"

"Sarah's right, Richard," Kukui agreed determinedly. "You can't let Hodgers continue to put you down like that!"

"Hodgers may have been right to some extent but even he should know that it's okay to break with tradition and to allow others to choose to do so and try something new if they please. They may wish to establish another tradition or new part of Alola's culture by choice as you're doing or give them better appreciation for our ways and culture," Hala added.

"Which is why we're inviting you to perform at the Hau'oli City Pokemon Music & Dance Festival to make your dream a reality," finished Raine as she handed him a flyer advertising the event. Richard was shocked by the offer.

"R-Really?" Richard asked. Hala and Raine nodded.

"Plus with the festival, we're going to donate the money we make to you to help you keep your studio and pay off Hodgers." Raine proposed with a smile.

"Prima.." Primarina smiled.

"There are cash prizes for the winners of the dance recital contests including the optional division," Hala smiled towards the dance teacher. "Sarah and her friends will perform their dances for their class projects as demonstrations and Sarah's dance will coincide with yours. If you win the optional division, along with the money we raised, you'll pay him off by the end of tomorrow."

Richard was stunned, he felt like crying with joy. He thought it was all over for him and the Unova Movers when Hodgers started to make his life and work a misery for him but thanks to his friends, old and new, fate stepped in and saw him through and he was going to make his dream a reality. "Thank you, all of you..." he cried happily along with the Unova Movers, tears falling from their eyes.


Throughout the rest of the day and into the night, Sarah and Richard worked hard with their Pokemon to perfect their dance routines for the Pokemon Dance & Music Festival. Raine, her Primarina, Hala, his Hariyama, and Professor Kukui stayed to help perfect their routines while the Primarina Trainer and Melemele Kahuna and their partners brushed up some dance routines of their own to demonstrate. Richard and the Unova Movers were the happiest they've ever been since meeting with Sarah. Thanks to her, they'll make his dream come true no matter what comes their way.

Finally, the moment had arrived, the week-long event that is the Hau'oli City Pokemon Music & Dance Festival was in full swing. Hau'oli City was packed as citizens from across Alola and the world flocked to see the latest in dance and music from all over.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we're happy to announce that the Hau'oli City Pokemon Music & Dance Festival is now open! The dance recital contests will have cash prizes for the winners in each category. It's not too late to sign up so hurry on in, enter each division, and get ready to have some fun, fun, fun!" announced an event announcer to the growing crowd of people entering.

Ash and the others were ready with their dance recitals along with their pokemon. Sarah. Richard and their pokemon would be the last ones to go. "Are you ready, Richard?" Sarah asked. She wore Hawiian clothing completed with flowers headbands, bracelets and a small dress too.

"A little nervous but I'm ready," Richard replied. "I'll never thank you and your Pokemon enough for all your help. Thanks to you, Hala, Raine, and Professor Kukui, I'll be able to pay off Hodgers and keep both my studio and my dream alive for everyone to enjoy!"

"Hey, no worries. Just remember to keep doing what you love and have fun with it. If you can't enjoy what you're doing, there's no point in doing it, right?" Richard agreed happily. However, one person was furious by this; Hodgers had entered the festival to see what Richard's doing and he snarled at the two as he watched them from afar.

Meanwhile, Ash and the rest of the gang were preparing themselves for their dance demonstrations to complete their class assignments. "This year's festival is going to be a blast!" "Stee Steenee, Nee!" Mallow and Steenee cheered.

"YAY, Raine and Hala were right! The whole city is packed!" "Pika, Pi, Pi, Pikachu!" Ash and Pikachu agreed with bright smiles.

"This is perfect!" "Pop, Pop, Popplio!" Lana and Popplio put in with delight.

"I'm a little nervous, guys. I'm starting to feel the butterflies in my stomach," Sophocles gulped. "I've never danced in front of a crowd this big, let alone actually danced and all of Alola will be attending. What if we mess it up and everyone laughs at us?"

"That'll show how much we're having fun," Sarah called as she and her Pokemon entered, to check on their friends before the recitals begin. "We may have been practicing hard but it's also for fun."

"Hey, Sarah, how was your dance practice with Richard yesterday?" Lillie greeted.

"Did he and the Unova Movers complete their routine for the recitals coming up?" Kiawe asked.

"Oh, it's been great and we just finished last night. As for Richard and the Unova Movers, they're ready with their routine," she told everyone.

"That's awesome..!" Ash cheered happily.

"So... that Richard finally came up with a routine, huh?" the group turned and saw Hodgers coming towards them.

"What's it to you?" asked Mallow as everyone and their Pokemon glared at him.

"Oh, nothing really, I'm just surprised to see that he's finally come up with something that could be entertaining," Hodgers sniffed snootily. "Of course, I wouldn't expect much from that knucklehead mcspazatron and his Unova Kids. They just can't accept that this region's dance and music culture rides on tradition alone and nothing else."

"That just shows how much you know about what dance and music are really about," Kiawe growled as he and Pyroar frowned with a scowl at the snooty businessman.

"Richard will prove to you that he has much a right to share his own love and talent of dance and music to everyone!" Ash snapped.

"You may think his dream is stupid and worthless but you're just blind to how talented the guy is!" Sophocles added firmly.

"Have any of you seen that fool and his Pokemon do his silly and imaginative dances?" asked Hodgers smugly but his face fell when Sarah stepped forward and glared hard at him. "I have and you have no damn right to make his talent a misery for him since you're a stickler for tradition until it drops dead," she argued furiously, getting to his face. "I'm sure you couldn't come up with a more fun and invigorating dance and a song to go with it that sticks to what you see as tradition."

It was clear to the kids that Hodgers was a man who doesn't deserve any respect from anybody given his attitude towards others and how he shamelessly mocked Richard and the Unova Movers. Hodgers was red in the face and he fumed before he was forced to concede and leave before he humiliated himself further. "We'll see, we shall see..." Hodgers snarled quietly as he walked off, the students all giving him unforgiving glares.

Wooloo gave an angry 'baaa!' at him and Sarah rubbed his head, "Easy Wooloo.." "Come on guys, let's get ready for the show..." Ash said and the others nodded.

"Alright folks, for our first performance, we have Ash and his partner Pokemon, Pikachu...!" the announcer called to the crowd.

"But, before we get to the main event and kick off our demonstrations, we like to begin the dance recital contests with a demonstration from a real Alola Hula master," Professor Kukui added as he, Raine, and Hala, joined by Hariyama and Primarina, began to address the audience as Ash and Pikachu joined them on stage to begin their dance.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Melemele Island's Berry Woman and her partner Pokemon, Oricorio, Ms. Anela!" With Professor Kukui's introduction, Anela and her Oricorio came to demonstrate the Alola Hula, to give the audience a taste of what they'll be looking for in the dance recital contests throughout the week following the demonstrations by Professor Kukui's students. The two of them danced together happily as everyone was encapsulated by their dancing as Anela's Oricorio sang beautifully, leading to a rapturous applause from everyone.

Even Nikki and James, along with their Pokemon, the Lycanroc Couple, and a happily clapping and babbling Nebby cheered for them as they watched.

"Thank you very much for coming to demonstrate for us, Anela," Professor Kukui thanked.

"Remember that if you decide to take on or create a dance like the Alola Hula, ladies and gentlemen, remember to convey what's truly in your heart," Anela advised to the audience, smiling. "I'll be looking forward to seeing what our contestants and Professor Kukui's students have to offer as one of the judges for the dance recital contests."

"Thank you for those kind words and that wonderful performance, Oricorio, Anela!" replied the announcer. "Following that lovely demonstration, it's time to begin the contests with a special demo from Kukui's students and it's onto the optional division! Ash and Pikachu, you're up first!"

"Right!" Ash replied as he and Pikachu faced the audience, being the first ones up.

"Pikachu..." Pikachu cheered happily.

With the rest of their team joining as background dancers, Ash and Pikachu performed the training move they worked on with Lycanroc and Torracat when they were their pre-evolved forms. Performing the move and interpreting it into a dance brought back memories for them during Torracat's training to learn Flame Charge after the first battle with the Masked Royal and Incineroar and when Ash helped his Rock Type to win out against Olivia during their Akala Grand Trial.

"Very unique, a dance based on a training move they did with Lycanroc back when he was a Rockruff and Torracat when they were helping him learn Flame Charge, or so I heard!" replied the announcer, intrigued by the dance until they finished.

Many people applauded Ash and Pikachu for their dance, some of them finding it interesting from what they've created from scratch and their imagination.

"Yeah!" "Pika!" Ash and Pikachu cheered.

Soon, the judges and Anela began their part to judge how Ash and his Pikachu fared. "So, this is the Ruff Ruff Boogie Ash and his Pikachu created along with his team," the first judge replied with a smile. "I'd say its very catchy and it conveys how they felt about Lycanroc when he was a Rockruff and when they were training alongside Torracat before he evolved from a Litten."

"Remarkable dancing from a kid with no training nor experience," the second judge agreed.

"Seeing how much fun Ash and Pikachu are having makes me want to jump up and dance with them," Nurse Joy commented happily.

"A creative dance that comes from the heart of a child who cares deeply for his Pokemon, a beautiful and humorous display from Ash and his Pikachu!" Anela wrapped up, smiling brightly.

Ash and Pikachu bowed as they went to the back of the stage with their team. Hodgers watched and was not impressed as he snorted. "Next up, making a splash on stage, Lana and her Popplio!" the announcer replied as Lana and her partner came to the applause of everyone as they began their dance routine.

Popplio cried out happily while using Bubblebeam in a circle around Lana as she and Popplio performed a dance, moving them arms up and down.

"Incredible! This is Lana and Popplio's Sea Lion Bubble Wonka, displaying their shared care-free nature and their affection for the deep blue sea!" the announcer replied as everyone applauded again.

"Ta-Da!" "Pop-Pop!" Lana and Popplio finished as they posed with the Bubblebeam around them exploding in little droplets that sparkled in the sunshine.

"That dance was very cute and the finishing pose with the sparkling water after the Bubblebeam was destroyed made for a beautiful summer sight," the first judge said.

"Beautiful and remarkable, that's what I say," the second judged put in. "It's an adorable sight to see Lana and Popplio play with water and being creative with it," Nurse Joy replied brightly.

"Water can mean many things to a lot of people but Lana and Popplio have shown how beautiful it can be if you treat it with kindness and serenity," agreed Anela as she gave her input.

Everyone applauded again as Popplio and Lana bowed to the crowd. "Thank you!" she called as she and Popplio returned backstage.

Hodgers was still not happy and he was starting to snarl as he watched everyone enjoy the recitals Kukui's students are putting on. The rest of the student dance demonstrations went by in a flash of excitement.

Sophocles and his partner Pokemon performed an Electric Zoo inspired performance that made some people's jaws drop.

Kiawe and Pyroar did a special dance they created that was inspired by their respect and feelings for Wela Volcano and its might that made everyone go bananas.

Snowy and Lillie performed a figure skating routine that had the audience swooning over the two as they brought out their hidden affection for each other.

And, Mallow and Steenee demonstrated their take on the Alola Hula while respecting the performance given by Anela and her Oricorio in their honor. The applause was thunderous for them, which was ramped up when Steenee evolved into a beautiful and spunky Tsareena, much to the Grass Type student's delight.

"And now for the final performance, I give you, Sarah, Richard and the Unova Dance-Palooza group!" the announcer called as Sarah, RIchard and the pokemon came out on stage. Richard nodded at Sarah and she nodded back. Richard, Oshawott and Snivy started playing ukuleles as Sarah started dancing in a similar fashion to the Alolan Hula and singing.

(On My Way Home - Imagination Movers)

Sarah: I'm on my way home. To the middle of the sea. There's an island lullaby. That is calling out to me. I'm on my way home. My pacific paradise. Blue water clears my face. And the mountains touch the sky

Richard: My big family waits for me. In a house in the shade of a mango tree. I'm gonna make my tu-tu smile. Wanna do the dance on this beautiful isle. See the highest mountain-top. Great dirt below your feet. Fish in the clear blue waters. And pineapples taste so sweet

Sarah: I'm on my home

Richard and the band: (On my way home)

Sarah: To the middle of the sea

Richard and the band: (To the middle of the sea)

Sarah: There's an island lullaby

Richard and the band: (There's an island lullaby)

Sarah: That is calling out to me

Richard and the band: (Calling out to me!)

As Sarah and Richard sang while she danced with the Espurr Pair and Aqua alongside her and he and the Unova Movers continued playing their instruments, the audience started clapping and dancing to the song. Hodgers was in shock as he watched Richard and the Unova Movers perform with Sarah, Aqua, and Espurr and his jaw dropped. Thirty seconds after the song began, some of Sarah's other Pokemon had appeared as background dancers to engage and invite them to dance along and even Anela, Nurse Joy, and the other two judges couldn't help but join in. By now, everyone was having fun as they watched an elating performance from Sarah, her Pokemon, Richard, and the Unova Movers.

Richard: I see Wingulls flying high. Tiortugas splash below. All the island girls & boys. Shout "Aloha!"

Everyone: (Aloha!) Richard: Waves dancin' in the moonlight. Gentle breeze across the sand. Hear a song in the leaves of the orange trees. That sing a lullaby to you and me!

Sarah: Ecoo hoo may

EE comoo wana

Kemey ohoo may ee

EE hayee mayu nay

Everyone: (calling out to me!)

Richard and the band: On my way, on my way

Sarah: (to the middle of the sea)

Richard and the band: On my way, on my way

Sarah: (there's an island lullaby)

Richard and the band: On my way, on my way

Sarah: (that is calling out to me)

Richard and the band: On my way home

All: On my way

The audience cheered the loudest of all for the group as the song came to an end. It was nothing that they expected at all and the performance, coupled with Richard's talent for dance and music, blew them all away. Ash and the others, along with their Pokemon, couldn't help but join in as they smiled brightly for their friend and the dance teacher.

"This... This can't be?!" Hodgers panicked as he tried to make sense of the whole thing but failed. "NOOOOOOO!"

Everyone, however, ignored him as they kept on cheering for Sarah and Richard along with their Pokemon.

"What a stunning and exciting performance!" the first judge cheered.

"I hope all of Alola, let alone the rest of the world, is watching this either here or from a distance. There may be much that can go wrong in the world but there's nothing wrong that can take two people like you guys and create that, just incredible!"

"Remarkable all the way!" the second judge agreed, showing his brightest smile.

"I'm so moved to tears from the mix of old and new with the Alola Hula put into an engaging and bouncy number, I don't know what to say!" Nurse Joy cried happily.

"I feel so touched to see one of Professor Kukui's brightest students create something from the heart with Mr. Richard, phenomenal!" Anela finished, crying happy tears.

"That's my Ponchita!" James shouted proudly as he and Nikki cheered the loudest. "I'm so proud," Nikki replied while Nebby clapped and babbled happily for his mother figure, his family, and their new friends.

"Bravo, bravo! Well done, you two, you and your Pokemon were magnificent!" the announcer cheered as he came forward. "I wasn't sure what to expect from you and I didn't think much of you but I can safely say that you proved me wrong with that stunner of a show!"

Hodgers regained his composure and scoffed again as he sent a stink eye towards Sarah and Richard as they continued talking with the announcer.

"Well, you two did amazing and you and your Pokemon all danced and sang from your hearts in the truest sense I know. The dance and music style was truly groundbreaking," continued the announcer. "But, you know what, I think it's time for Alola to reinvent their music and dance culture and make it more special than ever. And, just for that, for tonight's recital demonstrations, you two are today's winners and will receive the grand prize of the $25,000 check!"

"WHAT?!" screamed Hodgers in shock as the audience cheered again. Even Sarah and Richard were amazed from the prize they got, which was more than enough for the dance teacher to pay off his boss and save the dance and music studio. "Sir! Are, are you, are you sure?" Richard stammered in disbelief.

"Of course, I am, Richard," smiled the announcer. "I'm very sorry if all of Alola didn't take any notice of you and your Pokemon and what you've been giving to us with your dance and music when you first started up your studio. Whatever profits that will be raised in addition to your grand prize will go to you and the Unova Movers and you'll be given free ads for everyone to come to your studio for dance and music lessons if they wish!"

"Thank you, Sir! That's all I wanted to hear!" Richard cheered.

"You did it, Richard! You won!" Sarah cried.

"No, Sarah, we won," Richard corrected. "Us and our Pokemon!"

Aqua, the Espurr Pair and the Dance Palooza Pokemon cheered happily along with Sarah's other Pokemon. "Pikachu...!" Blitz cheered. Then, Snivy, Oshawott and Tepig stopped cheering and growled at something...Hodgers, as he came on to the stage. "Lycan..." Dusk and Midnight growled.

"Hold on! I'm sorry but first, you've accepted to have this musical wingnut here to perform in this festival when he's clearly not abiding by musical tradition as I wanted. Then, you have the audacity to have that meddling brat join forces with him for a combined recital, and now, you're awarding him of all things the $25,000 grand prize check, Dawson?! I recall you said that you would let me do the entertainment planning for the music festival!"

The announcer, Dawson, glared at Hodgers furiously and faced him while everyone growled, sneered, and booed at the snooty businessman. Sarah could tell he and Hodgers had a history together if they knew each other, and a rough one at that.

"Only if you're willing to give everybody who's interested in our region's dance and music culture creative freedom and allow them to have fun with it, which you clearly haven't from what I've heard," he scowled. "I've been hearing nothing but complaints about how you're handling the entertainment of most events since I've assigned you to the AEC. I've also heard you've been handling those affairs behind my back and those of your seniors when you're supposed to work alongside them and think about what the people want, whom your negligence to is most unbecoming!"

"I. Beg. Your. Pardon?" Hodgers snarled, lashing his teeth.

Dawson wasn't intimidated in the least. If anything, Hodgers' tantrum was only making him more furious. "As I've literally told you over and over again, you're nothing but an absolute detriment to the true purpose behind the Alola Entertainment Committee, which was to provide fun and happiness in any field of entertainment for everybody. Clearly, I'm starting to see that you're unwilling to care about the people who enjoy our entertainment, Hodgy-Poggy. So consider yourself terminated, good day to you!"

"AAAGGHHH! IT'S HODGERS!" Hodgers screamed as he ran away, never to be seen again as he cried angry tears. The audience cheered as he was now long gone.

Oshawott, Snivy and Tepig laughed as Hodgers ran away. "And Good riddence." Richard sighed happily.

"Well, that's him out of everybody's hair," Raine smirked as she and Hala watched the ruined Hodgers run away from everyone with satisfaction, humiliated.

"May the fool never bring trouble or shame to Alola and its dance and music culture again," agreed Hala, sharing her smirk.

Dawson then turned to Richard and smiled again, "Richard, since you won the grand prize for your demonstration with Sarah, and you and the Unova Movers pulled off the most exciting performance I've seen in years, I was wondering if you would be interested in an offer I have for you."

"Anything, sir, what is it?" Richard asked curiously. Dawson smiled as he made his proposal to him. "Since Hodgers is off the AEC for his negligence and his lack of respect towards our goal, as the head of the Alola Entertainment Committee, I was wondering if you and your Pokemon would like to be part of our group. Your style of dance and music is not like anything I've ever seen and we really need a person like you who can bring our Committee back up and would help us expand our cultural insights and we could do with revamping much of Alola's dance and music culture to keep up with the times and accept what we can learn from other regions. You will still have your dance studio but we can make it your personal headquarters for our new operations going forward under your helm."

Richard was stunned by the offer, not expecting the announcer to make such a deal. His and the Unova Movers' dance and music studio was saved and now he was to be given Hodgers' old position in the Committee! He looked to his Pokemon and Sarah who gave him encouraging nods, they wanted him to take it to further turn his fortunes around for the better. Realizing this, he smiled brightly and held his hand to Dawson.

"Sir, you got yourself a deal," Richard agreed wholeheartedly.

"Then, as the announcer and head of the Committee, I'm proud to say you're hired!" Dawson smiled as he and Richard shook hands to the cheers and applause of everyone.

"I'm so happy for you, Richard." Raine smiled.

"Congratulations." Kukui and Hala grinned together.

"He-he, thank you everyone," Richard said, then he felt something pulling his pant leg... it was Oshawott, Snivy and Tepig. "Oshawott, Snivy, Tepig, what is it?" Richard asked.

Snivy used her vine and pointed at Sarah, "Snivy Snivy vy?"

"Oshawott Osha.." Oshawott added.

"Tepig Tepig Tepig Tep." Tepig said.

"Richard, what do they want?" Sarah asked. Richard smiled, "I think they wanna go with you Sarah."

"Wha-?! Me?!" Sarah gasped in shock.

"Go ahead, Sarah. You take them in, they'll help you greatly and they'll continue to teach you everything I know."

"But, Richard, they've been with you for practically your whole life and they've done wonders with you before we came in. You should let them stay with you, they'll be a great help to you and the Committee."

Richard still smiled as he shook his head to her. "You and your Pokemon along with your friends, Professor Kukui, Hala, and Raine have given me so much and you helped me out of my biggest slump. And, thanks to you, you helped me make it come true and more. These three have learned all they could from us and I think it's time for them to see more of the world and learn what you could teach them," he explained.

"I'm sure they wouldn't want to be stuck in many meetings and become bored while my new fellow staff and I work out the entertainment bugs for future parties and events in the future. They deserve to go out and see what the world will have to offer them now and their first step should begin with you."

Sarah was hesitant; she felt like she had more than enough Pokemon to go through and she felt like she couldn't take on any more even if she could. But, when she saw the pleading and puppy faces on the Unova Starters, she couldn't help but smile as she realized that their place is now with her.

"Thank you, Richard," smiled before she turned to Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott. "Welcome to the family, guys!"

The three Unova Pokemon cheered as Richard and the other Unova Movers watched happily. They knew they were going to miss the young musical bundle joining Sarah but they were pleased to know that they'll always be with them in their hearts as they begin their new lives.

As the first night of the festival ended, everyone was treated to a special dance performance by Raine and Hala along with their Pokemon partners inspired by the Hawaiian Haka and Spanish Flamenco, both of which drew huge cheers from all.

Snivy, Oshawott and Tepig quickly adjusted to Sarah's growing Pokémon family. Nikki and James were happy to have three more little Pokémon to their growing family.

Oshawott tried to romance Nikki but Snivy snacked him with her vines, "Snivy vy!" she scolded.

"Looks like we have a cassanova Pokemon now." James chuckled.

"I can tell those three will fit in well to our family," Nikki laughed as they watched Sarah introduce Nebby to Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott and he babbled happily from his new brothers and sister.

Dawson and Richard and the Unova Movers looked to the trio and smiled, knowing that for them and their old trainer and musical family, their new journeys are just beginning. With that in mind, they happily continued to watch the celebration continue well into the night as Raine, Hala, Hariyama, and Primarina continue their dances to the applause of everyone.

As the Hau'oli City Pokemon Music & Dance Festival comes to a close on its first day, Richard and the Unova Movers' fortunes were turned as they become a part of the Alola Entertainment Committee and Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott choose to join Sarah in gratitude for helping their old trainer and family out of their big slump. But, their tale is more than just a story, it's a reminder to know that it's never too late to make some dreams come true!


Sarah's Team:

1. Pikachu

Moves - Thundershock, Tackle, Thunderpunch, Double Team, Thunderbolt, Electroweb

2. Lycanroc (Dusk Form)

Moves - Rock Throw, Bite, Tackle, Rock Slide

3. Lycanroc (Midnight Form)

Moves - Rock Throw, Bite, Tackle, Protect, Rock Slide

4. Silvally

Moves - Crush Claw, Air Slash, Hyper Beam, Swords Dance, Dragon Claw, Multi Attack, Tri Attack

5. Mudsdale

Moves - High Horsepower, Double Kick, Mud Slap, Bulldoze

6. Wooloo

Moves - Wild Charge, Tackle, Electro Ball, Volt Tackle

7. Ponyta (Galar Form)

Moves - Dazzling Gleam, Moonblast, High Horsepower, Heal Pulse, Psybeam

8. Meowth (Alola Form)

Moves - Thunderbolt, Scratch, Iron Tail, Dark Pulse

9. Brionne

Moves - Pound, Water Gun, Icy Wind, Bubblebeam, Aqua Jet

10. Milotic

Moves - Dragon Pulse, Ice Beam, Twister, Mirror Coat

11. Mareep (Shiny)

Moves - Thunderbolt, Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Signal Beam

12. Sylveon

Moves - Tackle, Tail Whip, Copycat, Shadow Ball, Light Screen

13. Sliggoo

Moves - Water Gun, Protect, Tackle, Dragon Breath, Dragon Pulse

14. Noctowl

Moves - Wing Attack, Foresight, Air Slash, Confusion

15. Espurr (Male)

Moves - Helping Hand, Psyshock, Light Screen, Future Sight

16. Espurr (Female)

Moves - Heal Pulse, Psyshock, Dark Pulse, Future Sight

17. Snivy

Moves - Vine Whip, Leaf Storm, Twister, Leaf Blade

18. Oshawott

Moves - Water Gun, Razor Shell, Icy Wind, Iron Tail

19. Tepig

Moves - Flamethrower, Flame Charge, Solar Beam, Rock Tomb