Alola readers!
So I survived March Madness...I'm talking about the flying standby one...I don't do that bracket stuff. And it took me one and a half days to get back home across the country from Florida. Thankfully I did slip onto a flight that got me back home late last night and I was wayyy to tired to finalize the chapter. So...sorry about missing my two week deadline. I'll do my best to meet it next time.
Anyways, at least the basketball March Madness part helped me out a little bit concerning the Pro Day stuff, which I found a little challenging to write. Hope it came out okay since the last part was one that I've decided to split into this chapter and next to avoid compressing it into one huge update.
Enjoy the chapter guys.
Elio looked like he had so much fun out there playing with Ed. They way he moves when he dribbles that ball is really something and I couldn't help but laugh at the couple of times during the exhibition game where he made the other person slip and fall. He's really something. I wrote a letter to him saying that Nebby and I happened to be flipping channels when we saw him play.
What I found interesting was that his pokemon were on the sidelines cheering him on too! I'm so glad he had Litten evolve and saw his new friends for real. I can't wait to meet all of them.
There's a lot of other things happening too. Hau seems to have left to go to take on the trials while everyone's been talking about kahuna Olivia and how she suspended passage through the Diglett's Tunnel since there have been these weird sound anomalies that have been recently popping up in there.
I hope it's nothing bad. If Elio goes through...please let him be safe! I don't want anything to happen to him!
Dear Elio,
Nebby and I were watching TV when I couldn't believe you were in that basketball game! What a huge coincidence when we were looking around and saw both you and Ed on there! No offense, but you look kind of small, but you have surprisingly big muscles too!
Just so you know, Nebby and I were cheering you on from the hotel. I know you can't hear us all the way in the court, but we're here supporting you all the way! I don't know all the rules of basketball, but you seem to be great at shooting the ball from far away! Every time you scored that…was it called a three point shot? Anyways, every time you did that; Nebby went crazy excited and I had to keep it from bouncing off the walls. Hehe. Even your pokemon looked like they were having a good amount of fun too!
But I'm sure you're wanting to get back on your trials! You've knocked down two so far! It's a long way ahead, but if anyone can do it all…it's you!
I miss you.
Sincerely,
Lillie
"Ladies and gentlemen, this has been quite an interesting matchup thus far." Lillie leaned closer as she sat on the bed in her Tide Song Hotel Room, listening to the middle aged anchors chat to the viewers and one another about the intense game going on. Nebby was cradled in her arms, watching the screen with intent. "The entirety of the Pro Day Skills Showcase has been one of the most spectacular so far kicking off in its new location here on the Alola Region's very own Akala Island! A region rich in tradition and culture unlike any other place in the world, we say mahalo for your hospitality!" The two men waved their hands in the rainbow greeting, laughing to themselves.
"Enough about that. You've all been waiting for the final few minutes of the Rising Stars versus the Up-And-Coming where we pit the draftee players up against one another in an exhibition game to help tune them to how the FBC is going to work. For those that are playing, this could make or break their chance to don an FBC jersey and have their name called up to join the professionals in just a couple of weeks!"
"That's right Kevin, much of the players have impressed the majority of team managers however the highlight has been on Edmund Dahm all game long! The elected team captain of the Rising Stars has pummeled the Up-And-Coming defense to a pulp with his inside rim attack and layups, which is one of his biggest fortes. Dahm leads the game in scoring with twenty two points, eight assists and six rebounds!"
As they were discussing Dahm's skills, Lillie saw a reel of clips from earlier in the game of how aggressive Ed was in basketball. He dribbled insanely well and used his larger size against the player guarding him for an advantage. Many times, he picked the perfect opportunities to advance right to the basket and lay it up in the backboard for a quick score.
"Dahm's big and physical ability allows him to play adequate defense and keep other small forwards at bay. This guy is a once in a generation player and it will not surprise me if teams start trading up on the board to get a better chance at his services."
"Also interesting is Dahm's Pro Day partner. Elio Northstar."
Lillie's heart stopped. Even Nebby's eyes went wide upon seeing Elio in his basketball uniform. The Rising Stars sported black and silver jerseys with two stars on the upper sleeves and an imprint of their last name on the back. Elio's required almost the entire space.
"Northstar would've been invited to participate in the Pro Day Showcase had an injury not caused him to miss the majority of his final season. However it shows that he hasn't lost a step since then. This is the reason why Ed picked him! The duo compliment each other so well! Pick your poison. Elio is just one of a perfect fits for a point guard here! He can direct the players where he wants to go, sling passes through tight windows like a quarterback and his three for six three point attempts have been like daggers in the Up-And-Coming. Sadly, Elio will not be eligible for draft due to his absence and we're also getting word that he has picked up a career as a pokemon trainer, evidenced by the team of pokemon that is on his side."
Lillie felt her heart flutter just slightly as one of the clips played from a different angle. Ed held the ball, dribbling it as if driving up for a layup, but then at the last second one handed passed the ball over to Elio on the court's other side, who circled to the outside semi-circle of the court.
Another boy was jumping up in his way in an attempt to block his shot, however he had anticipated it too early. Elio hesitated, waiting for the blocker to move. He faked an outside attack, stopping suddenly and making the blocker wipe out on the floor. The entire crowd had gasped as he raised his arms and arcing the basketball in a perfect release. The shot was replayed in slow motion and her eyes drifted to the contoured muscles on his broad shoulders in mid-form that looked so...amazing. His expression was nonexistent, but she knew that he was using that same laser focus as he did whenever he was engaging in the middle of an intense pokemon battle.
So...perfect...Gah! No! Stop thinking about him like that!
Even though it was just a highlight of a play happening earlier, the blonde couldn't help but bounce up and down at the end of the bed. Nebby had caught her infectious enthusiasm and it was just as happy at seeing the boy do something to excite the crowd.
"Yes! Go Elio!"
"Pew!"
"There's still three minutes left in the game to determine the winner and despite efforts from Dahm and Northstar, the Rising Stars are still behind the Up-And-Coming by seven. Can they rally from the deficit to win the final event? Or will they be snuffed at the buzzer? Let's find out now!"
Come on Elio. Lillie said to herself. I've been waiting all day to watch you since Professor Kukui said you were going to be on TV. I believe in you! Just win baby!
Elio had to admit that this was among the most fun he had during a basketball game. His adrenaline fired through his body like thousands of electric shocks, people were all up on their feet cheering both teams on and he loved their elation when someone made a big play.
Especially when it was him.
Heh. I still got it.
The team's coach normally was the head for the Jubilife Blues, having been selected among his peers in the tradition of having two FBC heads coach either side of the upcoming draftees in the game. The Blues were far from his favorite team, but he still felt very honored to briefly play for someone who was used to coaching the professionals.
So far, the game had been a back and forth pendulum. His team, the Rising Stars had jumped to an early lead thanks to the center and Ed's efforts. However they had quickly noticed the defense had been fractured by the end of the second quarter. The first's lead of sixteen points had dropped to four by the time half struck.
The Up-And-Coming took advantage of their lull, instead of focusing more on their own offense, cranked up the defense and forced mismatches to turn the ball over. Elio had the ball stolen from him twice and missed a crucial three point jumper that would've placed them back in the lead once the third quarter came to a close.
The fourth quarter had a total of six lead changes thus far and the Up-And-Coming had built themselves a seven point lead. There was three minutes remaining, still plenty of basketball to be played.
We can do this.
Sun was breathing heavily as he dribbled the ball hurriedly back onto the court. His guard kept up with him, knowing in the back of his head that it was the point guard's intention to remain beyond the boundary line to try and cut the lead down to four.
No matter how much Elio tried to juke him, his defender stayed rooted in front, waving his arms about in an attempt to block him. He furtively glanced about in an attempt to find people open. Many black and silver jerseys were moving about, but the guards had kept close.
Suppose I'll shoot.
Elio raised his arms, just as the player guarding him took the split second advantage to swipe his hand in and tip the ball's trajectory ever so slightly.
It was just enough for it to fall down out of Elio's reach as the opposing player quickly scooped it up and began dribbling back to the other side of the court. He only watched helplessly as a particularly large center had gotten the best of Ed and raised it up for a dunk.
The smaller boy had jumped up at the same time, tipping it almost in a same manner as Elio had done to himself a moment ago. As the crowd gasped, Ed had used its momentum to bounce it in mid-court.
Most of the other players were already just beginning to transition to the opposing goal when Elio rolled right to his feet, intercepting the loose ball and positioning himself within three point range.
Everyone in the bleachers stood up as he raised his arms, letting the projectile arc through the air. He held his breath as it sailed to the rim. There was no metallic clang of it deflecting off and he had already turned around when everyone was loudly cheering from the result. Down by four.
Unbeknownst to him, there was a certain blonde and tiny pokemon who were jumping up and down with excitement at his score.
It went back the Stars' way. Their defense had held on the opposing possession as Elio took the ball once more. He saw a mismatch to the center; passing it forth and then receiving it back moments later. A second mismatch opened up with Ed and he tossed it forth, allowing the larger player to grab it with one hand and throw it down in a nasty dunk. Elio couldn't help but laugh and grin like a maniac when he briefly saw his friend stick his tongue out for all the cameras to capture.
Fourteen seconds left. Once again, the Stars defense held their ground and Elio had to either make a three to win the game or a two to at least tie it.
The Up-And-Coming kept their defense tight as usual, trying to stay within the boundary of the three point goal line in order to keep him at bay. He had to make his decision soon and knew that it was a safer option to go for two points instead of risking a three to lose the game. He was very confident in the ability, however he wasn't playing for keeps as much as his teammates.
And I don't want to let them down.
Elio dribbled for two seconds, moving to the left and suddenly changing directions to the right, leaving his opponent suddenly unable to keep up. He stepped aside, now seeing how it was four seconds. Another defender was approaching him, ready to block.
Ed!
"ED!"
The small forward glanced up as Elio narrowly threw a pass across the court, almost in danger of getting stolen. He reached out, grabbing the ball and putting his arms up to shoot.
And then disaster struck. The buzzer sounded a split second after the ball left his hands. It sailed through the air and everything seemed to get drowned out as the rim clanged, sending the basketball back down onto the court.
We failed.
"That is the ball game!" Elio tuned out the announcers. "The Up-And-Coming have barely held onto a win against the Rising Stars! Final score…Ninety two to Ninety one! Thanks for coming folks!"
Elio felt his limbs go numb, even as the two teams met in the court's center to congratulate one another. Things started to spin in his head as he contemplated on how much he failed Ed and the rest of the team.
We didn't win. It's my own damn fault.
"Hey, don't be such a downer." Ed playfully slapped Elio's shoulder as the two began to throw on their casual clothes. Elio's arms were just slightly wet from the shower where he had stood in silence, wondering if his efforts had all been in vain.
"We lost though."
"You gotta stop worrying all about that. There's a reason that the Pro Day is more about having fun and publicity than who tops the scoreboard."
"But I could've cost you draft stock."
"Maybe." Ed said, "But it doesn't matter. It's for fun dude! Stop taking things so seriously!"
Maybe Hau is right. I do take competitions a bit too much.
That Gladion kid is a reminder of what I could be if I did do that.
"Because then, you'd be as friendly as Hau is. If you're not having fun, you'll be as grouchy and have a stick up your ass just like that edgy Gladion kid…which is zero percent approachable. That guy has no people skills."
"I'll tell him that next time we meet." Elio said.
"You can say that I said that too. Shove the stick in a little further."
Elio laughed. "Alright. All for fun then. Thanks Ed."
"Anything for you brother."
Elio had awoken the next morning early as usual and was joined by Ed as they jogged together a couple blocks around the town. They opted for their athlete clothes; a pair of basketball shorts and their Maple Apparel quick-drying shirts. Ed had his "DEFIANT" one that had just come out of the washer while Elio wore the one he didn't use during the Pro Day Showcase "MOST FEARED" Wanting some of his pokemon to have some exercise, he decided to have Torracat and Rockruff tag along and they kept pace alongside their trainer on the sidewalks.
Surprisingly, the sun was barely up and other early morning runners gave a friendly wave and "Alola!" as they passed by. Elio returned the gesture while Ed was marveling at the warmth and outgoingness of the Alolan people. They kept a slower, but steady pace to chat sparingly as they got their heart rates up and sweat beading down their foreheads.
"Wow." He breathed as the two of them stopped at the park close to the shopping venue they had visited yesterday. "I'm just amazed at how friendly people here in Alola are."
"Right?" Elio agreed. He reached into the fanny pack strapped around Ed's waist and removed two small bottles of water. Caps were twisted off as they gulped thirstily while catching their breath beside one of the benches.
"I'll go ahead and say it again; you and your mother picked a fantastic place to live." He glanced around. "What I would do to get a summer home here."
Elio's eyes lit up. "Well maybe once you've got all that money after playing for so long, you can get yourself a house on Melemele Island. I'm sure something will be within your price range and your parents would appreciate it too."
"Yeah sure."
"It's definitely good to consider."
"Gonna miss here for sure. The sun, beaches, food and everything."
Oh that's right. Sun's face fell as he realized that Ed's stay in Alola wasn't indefinite. He'll have to go back to Kanto soon.
"When are you leaving?"
"Oh uh." He glanced at his Poketch 2.0, the evolution of the Sinnohan designed Poketch that had taken off as a fashion trend in the last decade. "Day after tomorrow. Flight leaves in the morning."
"Nice. Really neat that you can use the Poketch. Wish I had one."
Introduced by the company of the same name in Jubilife City, it had quickly taken off in the northern region, able to link up with most of the modern phones to log events, read news and even take or respond to messages sent by others. Elio had listed one down in his Christmas and birthday wish lists, however he had yet to receive it as a gift.
Trainers going on a journey in Sinnoh did have an opportunity to earn a special stripped down model called the Poketch 2.0T that was specifically tailored to them, featuring additional apps exclusive to the T such as a summary of a trainer's roster and analysis of different type matchups determining their effectiveness.
Since their introduction and the world slowly modernizing into a digital format, the Poketch Company was integrating itself into everyday life, offering more apps and features to allow it a multitude of uses. It had grown from a simple garage company in the Jubilife suburbs to a mega-tech corporation that was headquartered in one of the tallest towers in Sinnoh's largest city.
Elio heard that one app in the standard versions had an automatic payment app. All you had to do was flash it to the payment pad and it would automatically transfer the allotted money and complete transactions even easier than ever before.
Ed wore the Poketch 2.0S model, the sport model that was more durable than its normal counterparts, also being able to be used at a depth of twenty five meters underwater. A pedometer showed that he had already exceeded his daily goal of fifteen thousand steps. A second monitor was keeping an eye on his heart rate, set at a hundred fifteen beats per minute, five underneath his maximum limit.
"Well I was wondering."
"Yes."
"I didn't even say it yet."
"And I already know what it's going to be." Ed bent his knees down to Elio's height and put on one of his mocking faces. "Oh Ed, I was wondering if you could travel with me as I go take on another trial to impress gorgeous for my island challenge."
Wow. From teammate to annoying older brother in a day.
"How about yes? I'd love to come and see a little bit of Alola for myself! And if you can conquer a trial two days from now, I'm down for it!"
"Then it's decided." Elio bent down to ruffle Torracat and Rockruff's fur. "We'll have to head out tomorrow morning and get there by midday."
"You have to do me a solid though."
"Sure." He was certain he wasn't going to like it, but the thought of having his friend along for the ride to watch his next trial had him thrilled to bits.
"You need to tell Lillie how you feel."
Tell her?
"Ed I can't do that."
"Why not?"
"What am I going to say? I really like you?"
"Yes!"
"But Lei-"
"Forget about Leilani for just a moment. What if I told Lillie that you were crushing hard on Leilani and wanted to keep her as just a friend?" Ed's face turned serious. "Think about that for a second."
Elio did just that.
I like Lillie. I really do. But does she have enough time or worries enough about other things like Nebby to even consider me?
"You know the dreaded term friendzoned?"
"Yes."
"Well it may surprise you buddy, but it's not just guys who get friendzoned. Girls can get it too."
"I know."
"That's exactly my point." Ed said as he finished his water. "I can see how much you really care about your surfer friend Leilani there, but don't forget Lillie too."
"And if she says no?"
"You're not asking her to marry you!" The basketball player spread his hands out in exasperation. "Well not yet. But the point is, that if Lillie were to find out that you wanted to ask Leilani on a date, not only would you have to compete with Hau, but she'd feel left out."
Elio sighed. Ed was right. In all of him contemplating in the letters he had written to her, he had indicated numerous times of his intention to ask the surfer out. It also escaped his oversight in the fact that she was very encouraging and stole several glances at Hau whenever she had gotten the chance. The kahuna's grandson was not shy about letting her know he was interested too. Since he could tell that both of them harbored strong feelings towards one another, he realized that throwing himself into that mix would drive a rift through everyone.
I want to still remain friends with all of them. Ed has a point. I could put a strain on my own friendship with Hau and Leilani as well if I decide to come in between them.
But Ed's right again. Lillie needs me…she needs me to be this friend and someone in her corner.
"What should I do?" Elio whispered. He felt a strange pitted feeling right in his gut just at the thought of her not being close by.
Through the entire journey, he had forgotten all about her aside from the letters. It was different from Melemele, when he would often wonder aloud while going along the north shores of his home island about how Professor Kukui's young assistant was doing. On Akala, any thoughts of her had been rearranged to the back of his mind once he had sealed the envelope. Same with Nebby. Sun suddenly felt very regretful that he had never inquired about the little cosmog he had started to grow very attached to.
I will fix that in my next letter. Lillie needs to know that I think about Nebby too.
There had been so much going on. Team Skull, trials, the basketball showcase were to say the least. He would fully admit that it was difficult juggling all the priorities doing the island challenge.
He also had to admit that he was thinking about Leilani much more than Lillie.
Writing to Lillie to show her how much she means to me is the least I could do. Best keep that up.
"Okay." He finally said. "I'll think of at least something."
It was the next morning, close to nine when Elio and Ed were set for the road. Judging by the map on 'Dex's display screen, it would take them at least a couple of hours to get to the base of Mauna Wela, where the trial captain Kiawe would await his arrival.
Elio quickly hopped in the shower before drying himself off and throwing on his black and red shorts and striped blue tee. When Ed walked out, releasing a puff of steam into the hotel room, he had shook his head at seeing the younger player's outfit.
"You and that shirt."
"This shirt and I have been through it all."
"But the stripes! That's so three years ago!
"It's sentimental to me!" Elio shot back.
"You're gonna look odd."
"The only way this shirt is coming off is if it gets ripped." Sun pulled on it before slinging his backpack over his shoulder. "You know it better than anyone. Plus it's cheap."
"Don't tell me your mom still picks out your clothes for you."
Ed opted to wear one of the Maple Apparel shirts, a white shaded one that stamped "CHALLENGE ME" in the same bold black letters across the chest. A pair of basketball shorts, a hybrid coloring of dark gray and neon yellow draped low down his legs past the knees and covering part of the shin. Only a slight bit of skin was completely exposed thanks to the long socks he was also wearing.
Initially he was against wearing a backpack, but agreed after Elio had insisted that he need some water, food and possibly a hiking stick.
"A stick?"
"Yes a stick." They had neared the ramp onto the highway going on Akala's east side and Elio spotted a large building with a parking lot that seemed to be getting a lot of business, evidenced by the good amount of cars parked and moving about in the asphalt lot in front. "Technically they're called trekking poles, but they're used often to keep a hiker's balance and assist in climbing slopes. I assure you we're going to see plenty of that judging by where 'Dex is pointing at the next trial site."
"Are those the things you see hikers use when they backpack across Kalos, staying in those hotel thingys?"
"You mean hostels?"
"Yes those."
"Then yes. You're correct." Halfway around the world was the Kalos region; another area that was well known for its extensive tourism industry. One popular thing to do was to slide on a backpack with a handful of essentials and trek the nexus of rural paths cutting through the region. The hostels served as stopping points in both the city and backwater areas of the region. For a small fee, the owner of a house or apartment would allow a traveler to sleep in a bed in a dormitory style room. Most would have kitchenettes for cooking and common lounges for the duration of the stay.
Elio had always wanted to do a short backpacking trip, possibly across Unova or Kalos and the hostel system made things easier. He knew that he could even meet new people this way.
I've even heard people find their future spouses just because they happen to be staying in the same hostel.
"Do whatever you need to do man." Ed said. "You're the one taking me on the adventure."
"And the best thing you can do," Elio pointed to the store's entrance, glancing over at the sign next to the road's opening "Thrifty Megamart". "Is being properly prepared."
Elio had been to many retail centers before. Tanaka's was one of the largest all-purpose hypermarket chains on mainland Kanto and Johto with a few locations in southern Sinnoh. There were also the HALO grocers that offered higher quality products at the turnaround of higher pricing and the Neighborhood Market which had stuck to smaller communities and put an emphasis on obtaining goods and food from localized sources.
So he wasn't completely sure what to expect when he walked into this Thrifty Megamart. Either way, he was short on medicine and poke balls and had to compromise since a sign back at the halemai had stated that the next shipment of things for the mart inside of it was going to be delayed a couple of days.
Sun saw other trainers that he had seen earlier from the Battle Royal and inside the pokemon center already shopping around. They had gotten the same idea as him to get their own supplies before the next rush hit.
"Damn." Ed whistled lowly as he looked around the white sterile floors and tall elongated aisles full of colorfully arranged products. Some vibrant upbeat music softly played from unseen speakers overhead. "You can get everything here. It's just like the Super Tanaka's."
"Alola!" Both boys turned around to see a cheery employee dressed in what they had presumed to be the Megamart's uniform. It was a pale yellow polo shirt with long pants, belt and a bright blue apron over his front. "And welcome to the Thrifty Megamart! It's where our sales are just as explosive as our products!"
Wait the products AND sales are explosive?
"Here!" The employee reached into one of the pockets of his apron and handed both boys a slip of paper each. "This is a discount coupon that can be only used at our store!"
Oh wow. Fifty percent off the entire purchase?!
"Now shop until you drop! Or at least until you run out of savings!"
"Thanks!"
"Mahalo!"
Elio laughed as soon as the two grabbed a shopping cart and pulled down one of the aisles. Ed's face was already snickering even before they had gotten out of earshot.
"Hahaha!"
"Oh my freaking goodness!"
"Did you hear what he said?" Elio burst out into another fit of giggles again. "The sales are just as explosive as our products!"
"They better lawyer up if that's true!" Ed's grin never faded. "But still, you see how dirt cheap stuff is here?"
"I know. We best stock up."
Even though Elio was aware of the rule bringing pokemon into public retail, he figured that Torracat and Rockruff were mild mannered enough to suffice. Both pokemon let out quiet cries of affection and nuzzled their trainer's leg.
"Heh." Ed found the stifled laughs of his younger friend to be heartwarming to say the least. He couldn't help but smile as Elio knelt down in front, saying something that excited both pokemon and ruffling their heads.
"Now let's see what we need to get. Rotom, start a shopping list."
"The trekking poles." Ed reminded him.
"And that means a backpack for you."
"What's wrong with what I have?"
"I ain't carrying your shit."
"Can you at least pay fo-"
"No."
"And that should be it." Sun dropped the traveler size tube of toothpaste on his side of the cart. One of the things he had needed to resupply on was his toiletries, hence his visit to the pharmaceutical section. Along with the tube, he also was set to buy a compact toothbrush, stick of deodorant, towelette and bottle of multipurpose hair and body wash.
"We're back." Ed said, finally setting a rain cover over his pile of things. Aside from the backpack, he had gotten the trekking poles, a pair of longer hiking pants and a hat. He opted to use his basketball water bottle, which could fit into a strap holder on the side of the pack.
Elio raised an eyebrow when he saw Torracat and Rockruff staring up at him beside Ed. The former had a bag of premium assorted flavor poffins in his mouth.
"Really guys?"
"Tor?"
"Ruff?"
Sun shook his head. "You guys even know how much those cost?"
"Ruff."
He sighed again. "Alright fine. But you will all get them when you've all worked hard. Understand?"
His pokemon nodded eagerly.
"Good."
"Hey, do you think your mother would want a photo of us at the game to add to your scrapbook?"
Ed's inquiry had just set off a delayed time bomb in Elio's head. "Oh shoot! I totally forgot! Son of a…ugh!"
"What? Did I trigger some PTSD or something?"
"What? No!" He jerked his thumb back to Rotom who was trailing behind them. "Back when I started my journey with Hau and Lillie, this jokester thought it would be funny to take a surprise picture of the three of us."
"Yup that'zz right! Bzzt!" Rotom floated in front of Ed, shifting its screen to show a rather comical picture of them right on Hau'oli City's Kalakaua Avenue with the ocean in the background.
Elio was in the middle, with a half-angry, half-surprised expression on his face and frozen in the image as he dove forward to contain the mischievous device. Lillie to his left had her eyes and mouth open in a mix of surprised horror.
To his right; Hau had the perfect opportunity to flash a photogenic goofy smile while the pointer and middle fingers on his left hand were extended in a "peace" sign.
"Wowee!" Rotom spun around happily. "You zhould've heard Elio here freak out! He wazzz all like Rotom! Go and put that shiBZZT away!"
There it was again. What's the deal with Rotom doing that?
"Hold on," Ed leaned forward, surprised to hear the 'Dex cut out in the middle of a word by a burst of static. "Elio said what?"
"Go and put that shiBZZT away!"
"He acts up like this sometimes. Did it at Brooklet Hill too."
"Strange. Anyway, I think it would be really cool to send some pictures out to your friends. Maybe one to your mother, one to Hau and Leilani since those two seem to be attached at the hip now and lastly one to gorgeous."
Elio nodded. "That does remind me that I totally forgot to send Hau and Lillie a picture of us three. Rotom actually took a nice one."
"Alwayz ready to zerve! Bzzt!"
"Then let's do it." Ed pointed towards the other side of the store, where there was a large section dedicated to photo development. "Looks like you can even send it out here."
The process didn't take long to upload it into the laminated printer, however the development time would take a while. The attendant and her pokemon companion, a small pink and blue squid-like creature were hard at work to stock the machine up with strains of ink.
"Bzzt! New pokemon detected!" Rotom buzzed just after he fed a copy of the pictures into the printer. "Inkay. Revolving pokemon. Inkay communicates with others of its kind by flashing the light patterns on its body. The rhythm of flashes is complex and can also be used to draw in its prey. Inkay is a dark and psychic type. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
"Pretty handy little guy huh?"
"All right." The counter girl displayed the photos, which Elio approved and seated them next to a set of envelopes. He almost flipped when he saw that the stock of them too were in short supply with only three kinds available and one of each. There was one that had a black and orange design of an angry pattern called War Paint, another was plain white and the third…Sun cringed at the third one.
Even Ed was a little unnerved at the hot pink shade of the Amour envelope, along with the dark outline of a luvdisc on its front and the hula girl. Emanating from it somewhere was a slightly sweet pecha fragrance. Both boys found the scent disorienting.
Just my luck.
Elio quickly paid and practically scribbled down addresses on a paper that would copy it onto the envelope to make it seem neater. Since Hau was going to be moving about, Elio had instead used his trainer account on Festival Plaza. A delivery fearow from Alola's famous postal service would track him down at the nearest pokemon center for the postmaster and send a notification through the app. This was done since the nomadic nature of traveling trainers made it almost impossible to nail down an exact location. Something else caught his eye and he had blitzed over, wanting to be at least a little more thoughtful to one of his friends.
Yeah I bet she and Nebby are pretty lonely there at the hotel all the time. I'm sure they'll appreciate this.
"Thank you sir." The girl accepted the envelopes and gasped in surprise when Elio suddenly placed down a blue box full of macadamia nuts all covered in chocolate.
"Can you ship this along with the one going to the Tide Song Hotel?" He remembered Lillie's room number as well. "It's at room three eleven."
"Of course sir. Do you care which?" She had glanced back up to find out that Elio had run off again. Ed had looked in the direction where he had gone, only to shake her head.
"Sorry about that. When it comes to shopping and all, he does that all the time. I swear all his manners got lost while he was in the womb."
"Okay." Elio shuffled through the baskets of poke balls close to the checkout lane. His cart was now stocked with various capsules of medicine and potions he would need for the journey ahead. "Nest balls? Already got some. Pass. Heal balls? Useless when you've got a full team." He saw a new kind of poke ball that was gray and red trim over the white surface. "Oh what's this?"
"That'zz a timer ball! Bzzt!" Rotom piped up. "They have a better chance of capturing wild pokemon the longer the battle! Bzzt!"
That will definitely be useful. Sun said as he grabbed a handful and dropped them into the cart. He glanced down to see Torracat and Rockruff by his side.
"You guys need anything else?"
They shook their heads.
"Good. Let's find Ed and check out."
"Seriously, can you believe how much we spent on that?" Ed grinned as they walked along the path. After finally paying and seeing that the letters and his box of chocolate macadamias had been set to be shipped out, the two of them stopped at the curb, packing stuff away.
Elio had to take a second glance at his receipt. It was much much lower than what he had initially suspected for the amount and quality of items that he had bought.
Quality's questionable though. Cheaply priced stuff tends to be cheaply manufactured.
At least the poke balls were legit. Elio knew that each one had a seal and serial number of authenticity applied to its bottom from an official manufacturer; this one coming from the Silph megacorporation based out of Saffron City in Kanto.
Trainers were urged to only use them from officially licensed fabricators as the crudely made or substandard variants had the chance to seriously hamper the pokemon's physical and mental health. Nevertheless, there had been those who have tried to sell off cheaply made counterfeit poke balls to naïve trainers.
Elio just had to be careful, but at least he was in the clear for the Megamart. The poke ball section had a large certificate hanging at its entrance depicting the Silph Corporation as its supplier. Just about every single government in the world with a pokemon league imposed sanctions regulating the sale of the capsules to licensed retailers. A violation by the trainer or retailer could result in serious fines and reprimanding action.
Even the manufacturers themselves weren't safe. Quality control had to be strictly enforced and intervals for testing of quality and safety for trainer and pokemon were random and frequent. It was still difficult to produce a copy of a poke ball; however counterfeiters were continuing to get craftier.
Those timer balls would come useful for more stubborn pokemon to catch. Elio also received a pair of white and red ones called premier balls that were supposedly more of a cosmetic. He did have to admit that they looked a lot cooler than the standard.
"Stuff bought. Stuff sent out." Elio pulled the straps of his backpack over his shoulders and shrugged into the loops. "You good to go? We've got a bit of a hike in front of us."
"Ed is ready for anything." He hefted his own pack and slipped on his silver designer sunglasses. "Bring it on!"
Talk was abundant as the two friends joked and laughed together while trudging the path. The temperature now began to go from the warm morning to the steaming hot midday. Sun shining directly overhead, the two stopped in the shade of a large tree to quickly slather on a layer of sunblock to protect their skin from the rays.
East Akala was much less urbanized than the western part. It was home to more craggy rock coastlines and long outcroppings where fishermen often sat on buckets with their rods cast in the drink. It was a particularly hot day, so he seldom saw anyone with a successful hook.
One of them however did manage to hook a blue and pink fish pokemon with large rear fins that looked like a butterfree. Even after congratulating him on the catch, he decided to challenge Elio to a battle after the boy said that he had Feebas.
"New pokemon detected!" Of course 'Dex had to have a say in prior to them starting. "Finneon. Wing fish pokemon. Its double finned tails propel its impressive jumps out of the water. Sunlight absorbed by the pink areas of their skin will reflect during the day and glow at night, making them popular for night swims and dives. Finneon is a water type. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
It was there that he learned she was more than just a splashing fish. Much of her movements were sporadic when she fought. Not every attack order of his was followed instantaneously, but she still had a strong dragon pulse attack that was telegraphed on charging miles away and slow moving, giving the more agile finneon more than enough time to dodge it.
One however had found its mark, amazingly taking out the fish in one single blow. The fisherman remarked that it was definitely a special feebas before handing Elio some money for the winnings.
"Good luck on your trials kid. Now I just gotta get back to Heahea in order to go back home to Konikoni City. Figures I'd blow my ferry money on some battle."
Ferry money?
"But zir?" Rotom buzzed, catching the man's attention again. "What about Diglett'z Tunnel? That would zave you approximately forty eight minutezzz of travel az well az twenty dollarz for a ferry fee. Bzzt!"
"Yeah." Elio held the money back out. "Here. Use it to get home."
The fisherman laughed, but waved a dismissive hand. "Thanks kid, but you've earned it. I'll just have to explain to the wife what's going on during my days off is all. Hopefully this ruckus in Diglett's Tunnel will die down soon enough, but if it doesn't, I'd advise you to have a strong water pokemon at your side if you need to go through."
Elio and Ed thanked him and they parted ways, although not before the former attempted once more to try and hand back the money for the ferry fee. He was once again allowed to keep it.
"He waz correct though. There are zeveral reportzzz of abnormal activity in Diglett'z Tunnel! Bzzt!" Rotom brought his screen up in a live shot of an attractive reporter standing next to Kahuna Olivia in front of a large mouth of a cave. He noticed that the dark skinned woman was wearing what appeared to be a cream colored robe that covered some bare sections of her normal outfit. Bits of sound filtered through 'Dex's speakers crisply.
"I'm here with Kahuna Olivia Rios of Akala Island who has brought us an update on the recent spikes in aggressive activity in Diglett's Tunnel." She turned to Olivia. "Miss Rios, have you or any of the Akala County Authorities gained any headway on the unrest?"
"We're continuing our investigation now." The kahuna calmly replied. She could clearly hold her own when speaking to the media on public relations. "However the unrest of the diglett in the cave seem to be distressed by loud intense sound waves that seem to be coming from a deeper section of the cave, which we haven't been able to originate."
"When can we expect the tunnel to be safe again for trainers and travelers to transit through?"
"I am fully aware of the importance that the passageway has for transportation through Akala. County officials as well as a specialist team from the Aether Foundation are searching as fast as possible to find and quiet the source of the noise. That is the focal point of our investigation and we will work as fast as possible to get the tunnel ready sooner."
The reporter turned back to the camera. "Does this put a damper on trainers going on the island challenge?" At the mention of it, Elio leaned closer, wondering if he was going to have to take the tunnel eventually. Judging by the anchor's question, he had gotten his answer.
"Unfortunately so. Due to the severity of the situation and the pressure of the upcoming Kumu Reef Triple Crown surfing tournament, I have to suspend all travel through the tunnel until this issue is resolved. I only have a few trial-goers here on Akala at this time, although I do expect the tunnel to be back up to speed with the anomalies cleared by the time the first one is ready to go through. For those needing to challenge me for their grand trial, please contact my jewelry shop where my staff can arrange a battle meeting place and time."
Oh great. I have to schedule it?
"Our very own kahuna Olivia Rios with the update on the noise disturbances in Diglett's Tunnel and their plan of action. Back to you Derek."
Rotom cut out the news feed and flew around rapidly.
"Loud noizez going on in the tunnelz?! Oh thiz iz horrible! Bzzt!"
"Rotom calm down." Elio reassured him. "It's probably nothing."
"I wouldn't say that." Ed said. "It must be serious if the kahuna just halted travel through the tunnel."
Elio countered. "You heard the fisherman right? As long as we have a strong water type with us, we should be okay."
"Strong." Ed pointed out. "He said strong water type. Feebas is your only one and it barely got that dragon pulse off in time."
Strong water pokemon huh? That was certainly something I saw out of you, however inconsistent. I'm still learning more and more about you every day.
"Then we best figure out how to make her stronger."
They continued on towards the large mountains to the north. Haleakala Peak dominated the landscape and could be seen almost from everywhere on the island. Just below it on the southwest side was Mauna Wela, one of the most active volcanoes in the Alola region.
"Wait a second." Ed said when they reached a sign indicating that there was one mile left to the Wela Volcano Park. "You're saying we're on top of a volcano?"
"Bro, this entire region is a bunch of volcanoes."
"What? You can't be serious!"
"Maybe if you paid attention in the Geology section of Junior Science class, you'd know that this is one of those regions with volcanic hotspots."
"So are we going to have to watch out for py…um…what were they called again?"
"Pyroclastic flows?" Elio asked. "Did you even study for the test?"
"I got a ninety!"
"Yeah you did. You also asked me and Aki to help you."
"What's wrong with that?" Ed pouted.
"Absolutely nothing. Kahuna Hala once told me that there is no shame in asking for assistance however you may need it." He cleared his throat. "Anyway, pyroclastic flows don't happen here. They're mostly for explosive eruptions that happen in composite type volcanoes with more viscous lava. None of those are in Alola. You're fine."
At least I hope so.
Elio and Ed finally saw the sign indicating the entrance to Wela Volcano Park. It was backed by a pathway that was roughly ten feet wide cutting through the center of some rather sharp rocks as it sloped up the face of the mountain, curving off to the left around the bend.
"Wela Volcano Park. Pio ka ahi a wela ma kahi!" The basketball superstar read out loud. "Do you know what this means?"
"Sort of. Ahi means fire and wela means heat."
"Maybe it's saying to don't get burned to death by fire."
The two boys shared a laugh and stared up at the sun. It was now just thirty minutes past noon, having some of its strongest light beating down upon them. Their skin was slick with sweat.
"It's probably also saying don't get heatstroke or something."
"Just don't joke about that." Elio warned. "Alola often gets a high rate of people with heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially to the underprepared." He looked at the long path, "We best get going. If I want to finish the trial, captain Kiawe said to get to the summit as soon as possible."
At the base of the volcano, the vegetation was bright green with healthy colored grass. A few varieties of pokemon inhabited within it, vanishing when the humans had gotten close.
Rotom again was having a field day of recording some of the species.
"Plenty of new pokemon detected here! Bzzt!"
"Give us the highlight reel buddy." Ed said.
"You betcha! Bzzt!" He started out with a small biped pokemon with a pinkish body and conelike mouth in the midst of spitting a ball of fire. "Magby. Live coal pokemon. This pokemon lives around volcanoes and frolick in pools of magma. They can exhale flames up to eleven hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Magby is a fire type. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
The slopes gradually got steeper as they walked along. Ed now had broken out the trekking poles, using them as assists to help him along. On the contrary; Elio didn't need them. He knew that much of Alola was hills and had gotten so accustomed to climbing and descending that it was less of a bother.
They still had to take caution due to the higher altitudes. Sun had almost gotten altitude sickness on his first time going up the hills towards where Verdant Cavern was situated on Melemele Island, so he made sure to regularly pace himself, drink plenty of water and stay within his partner's sightlines. Continuing up even further, Ed began to fall behind.
He had fully caught up when Elio stopped at a rest stand, featuring a small plaque depicting Mauna Wela's previous violent history millions of years ago when Akala Island was no bigger than twenty miles in diameter. Another embroidered sign showed information about ke kālā pahi kaua…an extremely rare plant called the silversword that was only found on the slopes of Mauna Wela and Haleakala. Looking down the mountain, he could see several of their glittering stalks in the rocky jutting sections all along its side.
Ed panted heavily, finding relief in both the stop's latrine and the water filter, which he used to fill his bone-dry bottle back up. Elio was nearby chatting with three almost identical women in their early twenties who were more than happy to talk to him about something.
"Is the big baller basketball player all tired?" Sun playfully sneered and yelped in surprise when he had playfully swung one of the poles. Elio brought his own out as if countering a blow from a sword and it elicited a laugh from them before finally bumping fists and calling it a truce.
Elio made introductions when his friend walked up beside him, leaning on his poles in exhaustion. The three girls looked amused at their spectacle and were known all as the Seismic Sisters. They were three girls in their mid twenties who were aiming to one day climb all of the tallest mountains in the entire world. Newest goal was Mount Silver on the Kanto-Johto border. It was known to be one of the most notorious peaks to summit due to its unforgiving weather conditions and dangerous pathways up.
Mauna Wela was a mere fraction of its height and just a practice run to break into how the first trek was going to be.
The Seismic Sisters reassured the boys that the trial site wasn't that much further, however even the less intense areas were still going to be a challenging climb.
"I hope you brought some sturdy shoes." One of them said.
"Because there can be some sharp rocks up there." Another added. "And you seem to be a trial-goer. Make sure you've got some rock, ground or water pokemon on your team!"
"I've already cut my ankles when I was younger while climbing." The third chimed in. "Just watch your step, be careful and have fun! Once you get to the top of Haleakala Peak, the view is totally worth it!"
"I hope so." Ed grumbled, still leaning on his poles for support.
"Then we wish you the best!" The center sister quipped as they turned to head back down the trail. "Alola!"
"Alola!" The boys waved back and sat down to catch their breath again. Even though they were still a ways from the top, Elio was already finding it a tad harder to breathe. The air up here was already thinner.
"Pretty neat huh? I've heard an author hopes to do this for fun."
"Author? Don't they write books?"
"Yeah. But one I recall enjoyed writing and backpacking. He even went up some mountains which gave him inspiration for a book."
"What was his name?"
Elio stopped short. Yeah what WAS his name?
"To be honest I don't know. But his books were pretty good."
"New pokemon detected!" Rotom interrupted, pointing towards a couple of small gray and orange birds that were perched on the side of the sign, eyeing the two humans curiously. "Fletchling. Tiny robin pokemon. This bird is mellow and amiable, perfect for beginner trainers. It has a fierce disposition when battling and its body temperature can double whenever it's excited or agitated. Fletchling's warm body also makes it ideal for trainers to snuggle with in cold weather areas. Fletchling is a normal and flying type. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
Oh so that's why those heated pillows are called Fletchlings.
Ed was about to stand up and indicate that he was ready once more when Elio, put a hand on his shoulder. He was staring out at something else in the distance.
"Look." He whispered.
The basketball player followed his gaze and spotted a large brown creature moving. It was bigger than any other pokemon within the vicinity and possibly towering over both humans as well.
"Another new pokemon? Yay me! Bzzt! Kangaskhan. Parent pokemon. A kangaskhan vigilantly watches over its child even if it appears to be playing alone. It has zero forgiveness and tolerance if it feels as if its offspring is endangered, hurling ferocious punches and blows from its hammerlike arms. Kangaskhan is a normal type. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
Kangaskhan were pretty rare anywhere they could be found in the world. They had both been a ways up on the mountainside, but they still kept their distance from it. No intention crossed both of their minds to evoke the wrath of a protective parent.
The final stretch was in sight. Rockruff moved along happily in front of his trainer since he seemed to be brimming with enough energy to last days. He sniffed the ground as if his life depended on it as Elio and Ed walked just behind with the former trying to put together a game plan. Right now, it was as if getting to the site itself was a trial of its own.
Elio had the rest of his team save Feebas out in a semi-circle while sitting on a rock. He had ruled Charjabug as someone who was going to be effective and had decided to use her when he needed it the most. She was more focused on avoiding Rufflet than listening to his plan. The tiny bird had still been confused on why that one pokemon was trying its hardest to avoid him.
Rockruff was going to be a main offensive weapon since he had rock-type attacks that could prove useful against fire. As for the rest; he'd have to place them when the time came right.
And the ironic thing is that as soon as the trial and totem battle…there is one I assume happens…this plan is going to hell anyways.
"Rockruff." Elio snapped his fingers, bringing the puppy out of his thoughts. He had started gnawing on a fine bone that landed a little ways from them. "Give it back."
He glanced over to see a trio of small biped pokemon waving their arms about. Two of them were holding identical bones in their hands.
"Ruff."
"Good." Elio stood up with the third one's and tossed it back. Next to him, Ed gawked as the tiny pokemon jumped up an impressive height to one handed catch the thrown object. He heard a cheer come from the trio as they waved and disappeared somewhere into a hole in the mountainside.
"Wow. Talk about all wide receiver right there. You still got them quarterbacking skills."
"Point guard too."
"And that catalogues a new pokemon!" Rotom added. "Cubone. Lonely pokemon. It is widely believed that it will eventually evolve when it comes to terms with the death of its mother. Cubone wildly swings its bone in a futile attempt at its natural mandibuzz enemy. Cubone is a ground type. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
For pokemon that seem so sad all the time. They looked to be having a lot of fun. Can't really spend all this time weeping. I know this firsthand.
Trial captain Kiawe Iokua grunted as he held the final pose in the center of the ground. The long stick in his hands resembled a slightly shorter kun staff with small oiled wicks at either end.
Practice during his spare time had been crucial to honing his abilities when not conducting trials or on his part-time job. The loosely organized Alola league had paid well and augmented with his position as a head stocker at the Thrifty Megamart earned him a good nest of money. However the two had split his duties and he had felt that preserving tradition was more important than keeping the store's shelves faced and full of product. All of his allotted vacation time had been used and he still had at least a couple more years to go.
Things are looking good. He smiled to himself before launching another series of poses, all under the watchful eye of a middle aged man with tanned skin and dark hair that was tied up in a bun. He wore a simple T-shirt with a ceremonial hook in a necklace atop his chest.
"And I am sure that Ecruteak State University will be more than happy to accept you on the Alola League's behalf Kiawe." The man's scowl was replaced by a flicker of a smile. "No doubt you have proven this to be a true preservation to Alola's traditions. In the face of modernization, I hope this can be a view into the past on what makes our people and this region unlike any other place in the world. And another reason why I believe that your trial is among the best in Alola. Even my daughter had some difficulty surpassing it."
"As do I. And she made defeating the totem look simple if you ask me." Kiawe held the pose again and resumed moving once the older man gave a nod of approval. "We must always remember who we are as a people. And that is why I do wish to study at Ecruteak State in Johto for the history of dance and how it can tell stores in the past, present and future."
Before either could go on, one of the uniformed trial guides had entered the ring. With three points of entry around the outer rim, it was flanked by large posts of lights and rows of bleachers that remained empty. If the guide brought the news he was expecting, then perhaps they would be full of spectators.
It's always interesting and enriching for locals and visitors to see what going on the island challenge is truly like. I'm definitely glad that this trial is open to the public and broadcasted.
"Captain Iokua." The guide gave a curt bow of his head to both men. "We have a trial goer. He seems to have heeded your advice and arrived as early as possible from Pa'ani."
"Excellent." Kiawe's lip curled upwards. "Bring him in."
Elio and Ed were led by a guide past the ornate gates of the final slope to the peak of Mauna Wela. Beside them was Haleakala Peak towering another five thousand feet to the northeast. Normally its top was invisible due to the lower hanging clouds, but today it was nothing but blue skies and blistering heat courtesy of his namesake continuing to shine down on the land.
He saw that it was a massive ring of sorts, with bleachers facing every direction and tall posts which seemed to house both spotlights and torches that were unlit.
Kiawe was the familiar face to both of them and he gave a nod as they began to enter. Beside him was another middle aged man that was dressed very simply and a pair of trial guides that happened to be on duty.
"Kūlia!"
The bark came from the older man, whose face contorted into confusion. It was stark and had a commanding edge to it that froze both teens in their tracks.
"What are you two doing here? These are sacred grounds." A thought had put itself into his head. "Are you here for the trial?" When he received nods, he went on. "It will not occur until possibly this evening. Please leave and return when we permit haoles to enter."
"I don't fancy a long hike back down after getting nothing." Ed quietly remarked.
His snark hadn't gone unnoticed. "Then perhaps you should have thought about not trespassing while you made your way up."
"Makoa!" Kiawe snapped irritably. "Ua lawa!"
Elio's knees felt weak. So I can't even take the trial because I'm a haole? Thanks Professor Kukui.
"I'm here not to watch the trial." He said, taking just a moment to gather some courage left inside him to speak. Even though his stature didn't have it, the man named Makoa was quite intimidating. "I'm here to take it."
"That cannot happen." Makoa shook his head. "Only kama'aina and those who have the blessings of the tapu are allowed to go on the island challenge."
"All the more why he should." Kiawe cut him off. "I overheard at the Royal Dome about how kahuna Hala called you Tapu Koko's waeia kekahi. Is that correct?"
Elio nodded. "People have been calling me that since I got here. Whatever that means."
"It means chosen one. The land spirits of Alola are capricious by nature and we must honor and respect their actions. Tapu Koko has clearly seen something in you that is truly special Elio."
Makoa's scowl didn't fade, but he gave an agreeing nod.
"I see that you've made an impression on old Hala. And I now change my stance. Disagreeing on you undertaking the trial would be to protest the tapu's actions directly…and I have no intention to displease our gods and goddesses." He walked towards them, taking advantage of his taller frame towering over Elio's. Sun estimated him to be close to six and a half feet tall…much more than Kiawe…who skirted just above six.
Don't recoil. Whatever you do…don't show any sign of fear. This is a test.
"However, just because you have been saved by Tapu Koko does not mean that you will receive any special treatment. This trial will test the might of your physical strength, mental strength and how well you can battle alongside your own pokemon in the face of adversity."
Kiawe gently took the back of Elio's head in one of his hands and gently pressed their foreheads together to exchange honi.
"E mālama ka tapu mai ka lani mai. A alakaʻi iāʻoe i loko o ka hoʻokolokoloʻaneʻane e kokokeʻoe e piʻi."
Makoa stepped back, but the permanent scowl he had previously plastered on his face started to disappear.
"And perhaps you can prove to a member of the Ka mālama that you are more than just a tourist haole and truly kama'aina. My own daughter is a trainer that is on her own journey and she has taught me time and time again that it is wrongful to establish prejudice in the way I do. And I like to be proven wrong."
"I won't let you down sir." Elio said.
"Best of luck Elio." Ed encouraged. The two bumped fists and the latter managed to get Makoa's permission to sit on the sidelines to watch.
Kiawe nodded, accepting two smaller sticks from another one of the trial guides. He held them switchblade style before bringing the ends of them together. A twist of the hand and it locked into place as an identical staff that he was using just a couple of minutes before.
The heat of the sun was relentless as he walked and handed over the staff to Elio.
"Very well. Let's begin."
Next up is the fire trial! As you can tell, I will be making it MUCH different that what it was in the game. I felt that it was very underwhelming and could've been so much more. I'm excited to show it to you all!
Translations:
Pio ka ahi a wela ma kahi! - Fire burns bright and hot here!
Wela - Heat
Ahi - Fire
Mauna - Mountain
Ke kālā pahi kaua - Silversword. This is an extremely rare plant that can only be found at Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui. It is a protected species, listed as vulnerable in conservation status.
Kūlia! - Stop!
Ua lawa! - That is enough!
Haole - Haole literally means "no breath" in pidgin. Native Hawaiians use the term in a derogatory manner towards people not native to the islands (mainly towards those of Caucasian descent) It is a similar racial slur to gringo which is used in some Latin American countries, geared towards Caucasian Americans.
Ka mālama - The Keeper. This refers to a group of individuals who work with the island kahuna to preserve and uphold the traditions of Alola. A similar practice exists in Hawaii.
Kama'aina - Refers to a native resident regardless of race of ethnicity. Anyone born in Hawaii/Alola is considered kama'aina and on occasion given to foreigners who have lived there for a long time or done something heroic to be deemed in that manner. To be considered kama'aina is a very special honor.
Waeia kekahi - Chosen one
E mālama ka tapu mai ka lani mai. A alakaʻi iāʻoe i loko o ka hoʻokolokoloʻaneʻane e kokokeʻoe e piʻi. - May the tapu watch over from the heavens and guide you through the trial you are about to surmount.
As always, big thanks for reading and reviewing. You give my writing purpose.
Brav
