(Ooh boy, we've got a lot to cover in this concrete jungle. Let's get to it!
The Reviews
Megan Romero: Oh funny you mention that store thing...heh heh. It's gonna be a thing.)
Lillie was waiting for the duo outside the Trainers' School, and was happy to see them return. "Ah, you're back! Are you ready for me to show you around the city?" She asked.
"You betcha Lillie! There's a boundless amount of possibilities around here I'm sure." Jake said, spreading his arms out as far as the eye could see. Forrest followed his pose with gusto.
"Yeah, we're ready to roll!" Aubrey agreed.
Lillie nodded. "Then follow me." She would lead the way to the entrance of Hau'oli City. "You know...I was really impressed seeing how you battled with your Pokemon back there. And even back when you weren't yet a Pokemon Trainer, Aubrey...but then again, I shouldn't be surprised, since you're a Ranger and everything."
"Well I do have a Pokemon Partner...he's just being cared for by Van," Aubrey responded.
"You were chosen by your Pokemon so quickly...it makes sense to me now." Lillie kept going, and then stopped. "Oh no! I completely forgot about the Tauros!" Standing in front of an arch at the bend leading into the city, Hala and Hau were seen with the Tauros from earlier.
"No worries Lillie. Tauros the constellation is being taken care of right about now from the looks of things." Jake said, patting Lillie on the head sweetly. Aubrey could tell that Jake was quite fond of Lillie and was naturally quite sweet towards the young assistant the way a dad or babysitter would. The ranger certainly appreciated this. As did Lillie, embarrassing as it might seem.
"Ho! If it isn't you three," Hala greeted. "Sorry for scaring you, friend. I guess it's time I get old Tauros back home. Oh! But why don't you give him a little pat first, Aubrey?"
"You already know the answer to that question." Aubrey would indeed rub Tauros' head, the bull looking quite interested by her casual attitude towards him. Jake chuckled, knowing that Aubrey's love and dedication to Pokemon was beautifully showcased in the action.
"Take care now, Hala. We'll be checking out the city," Aubrey waved.
"Wa hah hah! Oh the places you'll go, Ranger. And as you do, you'll surely meet more Pokemon and people who will enrich your life," Hala laughed, seeing the four off as he brought the Tauros back home.
"The Kahunas sure are something, huh guys?" Hau smiled. "Able to calm a raging Pokemon without even needing to battle...now that's something!"
"Kinda sounds like what I'm able to do, huh?" Aubrey smirked, twirling her Capture Styler.
"Well no, what they do is socializing. What you do is technology." Jake teased.
"Truth be told, I have heard legends of a guy from Oblivia whose bond with Pokemon was so strong, he didn't need a Styler to convey his friendship," Aubrey mentioned as the group headed into the city. Hau's first instinct was to run down to the beach.
"Beach time! Yeahhh!" He cheered.
"Ooh the beach..." Jake saw the sight and was spellbound every time. The bountiful ocean, the limitless sky, the gorgeous sheen of the light upon the water, and many people and Pokemon all about.
"Hey, you..." A young lady gestured to them.
"Yes?" Aubrey turned to the young lady.
"You've come to Alola from someplace far off, haven't you? I can tell!" She said. "Let me teach you the proper way to greet someone in Alola!"
"I don't think shouting at someone is the best way to greet someone period." Jake critiqued.
The young lady shook her head. "Oh no, that's not how we greet in Alola." She waved her hands in a fashion that made it look like she was making a rainbow with her hands. "This is how you greet someone." Jake looked unamused but nodded along to not put the strange woman off further.
Aubrey meanwhile, didn't mind playing along, mirroring the greeting perfectly. "It really does feel like drawing a rainbow, man."
"You are ok with her being too upfront?" Jake whispered to her. It seemed his annoyance was out of concern for how Aubrey might've felt about the young lady's approach. The ranger merely shrugged.
"I don't mind it too much," She whispered back.
"Well ok then..." Jake mimicked the greeting in response too.
Rotom decided to try and break the awkwardness of this encounter as they walked on to comb the beach. "Hau'oli's got a lot of tall buildings, zzzt-zzzt!" He said. "It's even got a tourist bureau of its own!"
"Anything else we should know about?" Aubrey asked.
"Let'zzz see...we've got the mall, a boutique, hair salon, malasada eatery, the Alola Photo Club, and even a government office! Because everyone loves that last thing in their paradise!" Rotom answered.
"Guess we've got a lot to see and do here, huh Jake?" The ranger mused. "And it's not even noon, so plenty of time to do so."
"Sounds like my kind of hot spot that's for sure! I'm curious if it'll match up to Mauville's Mall." Jake now looked excited.
"Oh yeah, isn't Mauville City just basically a giant mall complex now?" Aubrey asked. "Or was it always like that and I've been hearing wrong?"
"It got remodeled some time ago in the past and yeah it is now a giant mall complex. Very chic," Jake explained.
"Thought so. Even heard about this massive report that was all over the news...apparently the Game Corners were letting kids in there," Aubrey mentioned. "Which like...I have to ask why."
"Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh...no supervision? I never liked Game Corners so I never went there," Jake admitted.
"Well obviously. Honestly I'd chalk it up to parents being irresponsible...but then again, trainers can leave home when they're ten, which seems like...a choice." Aubrey shook her head as the two headed into the shopping district of the city. Something would tell Jake if she ever became a parent, she would be quite good at it.
"He-e-ey, Aubrey! Jake! Thought I recognized the sounds of those feet!" Hau had come back from his splashing around at the beach to catch up with the group. "So what do you think? Hau'oli is something, eh?"
"It's an exotic wonderland that's for sure! What's your favorite part about it Hau?" Jake inquired.
"Gotta be how pretty it is!" Hau cheerily answered. "Oh yeah!" He saw that the three of them were in the tourist bureau, and Lillie went on ahead to the boutique and salon. "Come in here with me. I've got a good idea of something you can do. It'll only take a moment."
"Sure thing then." With the agreement from Jake, Hau led him and Aubrey inside the tourist bureau. Inside the tourist bureau, Hau was talking with one of the receptionists.
"Hey, miss? Is it true you can get some kind of special gift if you have a Rotom Dex?" He asked.
"My goodness, you get the news fast!" The receptionist remarked positively. "Hardly anyone has a Rotom Dex, but it is true we have a special item to go with it. It's our very own Poke Finder! Here you go!"
Rotom would let himself get upgraded with the Poke Finder. "Awesome!" Hau exclaimed. "Isn't that awesome, Aubrey? You got a Poke Finder!"
"Wow...what is it?" Aubrey scratched the back of her head. "Does it tell me where Pokemon are?"
"The Poke Finder is a tool that lets you take photos of Pokemon," The receptionist explained. "Rotom will help point out places where you'll be able to take photos, too."
"Okay, so...cool, I guess." Aubrey offered up a shrug.
"Aw come on, don't pretend like you're not gonna enjoy it, zzt!" Rotom teased.
Jake instantly starts taking selfies with Forrest in the frame using the Poke Finder. And Rotom was more than happy to do it.
"Oh yes, we've recently relaxed our user agreements - you can take photos with your Pokemon, since we've had numerous complaints about that in the past," The receptionist mentioned. "Some people who have Rotom Dexes weren't too happy they couldn't take photos with their Pokemon, so as long as they're dressed appropriately, it's allowed."
"Ewwwwww." Jake looks disgusted at the implications. "Ah well, that's a great function to add then! I love it! I need to take selfies with all my Pokemon once my team's ready."
"Oh don't worry! Nothing getzzz by me and my fellow Rotom!" Their Rotom Dex assured him.
"Well that's good, because I'm sure you and the Rotoms get a good laugh roasting anyone who tries to get around that to be morons," Aubrey chuckled. "Alright, I like this feature now!" She then would say, "We can test it out later, man. You wanna check out the boutique next?"
"Absolutely!" Jake clapped excitedly. Fashion was one of his passions after all so discovering the wonderful world of Alolan couture was sure to be promising. Or a major fail that he was ready to read to filth, whichever came to pass.
"Alright Hau, we'll catch you later," Aubrey chuckled.
"Okay, take care!" Hau waved them off as they stepped outside, heading over to the boutique which wasn't too far off. Lillie was standing outside.
"Oh. Aubrey. Jake. Tell me...do you pick out all your own clothes?" Lillie asked. This was more directed at Jake, seeing as he was wearing something new today.
"Mmhmm! I've ordered my clothes online and shopped in Hoenn's boutiques so I have quite the couture collection if I do say so myself." Jake giggled and posed elegantly.
"Of course...most people do, don't they..." Lillie looked down. "I...I've always worn the clothes that my mother wanted me to wear. I don't know what kind of thing would suit me."
"EHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH?! "Jake looked at Lillie in horror. "You. Don't. Know. What. Clothes. Would. Suit. You?! And your mother forces you to wear clothes of her choosing?!" He paused seeing Lillie recoil from this sudden exclamation. "I mean... you do look absolutely stunning in that ensemble so she has some good taste but I find that rather disappointing she wouldn't encourage you to switch up your look every now and then or let you pick several outfits to wear of your liking. I mean, sundresses and sunhats are cute but you could wear something even more elevated I know." Jake reassured her. "Trust me, you have the elegance and personality to pull off all sorts of looks Lillie."
"Thank you...maybe when we get time you could help me with that," Lillie suggested.
"We were just about to go inside to see what's here," Aubrey mentioned.
"Oh. Well you two have fun with that," Lillie softly smiled.
"Come with us! We'll totally get you something cute and fresh!" Forrest looked just as hopeful as his owner did in swaying the assistant to get some new clothes. With a nod of agreement, Lillie followed the duo inside the boutique.
Inside the boutique, they'd see a collection of basic clothing choices - tank tops, V-necks, regular shorts and socks, and some trilby hats. There were a couple tank top designs worth mention.
"Hmmmmmm...I was hoping for something a bit more feminine to match your aesthetic. Unless you are fond of more casual, sporty attire?" Jake proposed.
"Mmm...it's an idea," Lillie responded.
"This kind of clothing seems more like my kind of thing," Aubrey commented.
"I know it's more Aubrey than it is Lillie." Jake seemed to agree. "Well if I ever go to Kalos, I'll bring you a look from one of their boutiques because I heard they have some perfect, elegant, feminine attire. Laverre City even has a nice oriental-themed clothing line that you could definitely pull off."
Lillie smiled at the mention of that. "I think I've heard Kalos fashion seems more my style, given what I'm wearing."
Aubrey would see a collection of what looked like the stereotypical island tourist shirt on the rack. "And this...seems more like a funny thing to wear."
"That's for sure," Jake laughed.
"Ooh, a surfing Pikachu tank top," Aubrey mused, spotting it on the rack.
"Super cute!" Jake squeed. "And very trendy-looking."
"Should I get it?" Aubrey asked him.
"Heck yeah!" Her companion responded. Aubrey gave a nod and went to buy it. "Anything else you see that you'd like?"
"Well the skirts are cute and also those stylin' shoes right over there!" Jake pointed at the items in question.
"Yeah, I guess we could get me something other than my uniform to wear for the time being," Aubrey mentioned with a smile. "If you want to get something slapped together for me that works, be my guest!"
Lillie nodded. "This boutique more suits Aubrey than me, after all. Show me your designer skills, Jake!" She encouraged.
In a matter of 20 minutes, Jake's keen, sharp eye pinpointed the perfect outfit for Aubrey. A happening white skirt with a blue floral print to match the Surfing Pikachu top. Chic and neutral black over the knee socks to keep the look from being too much. And finally awesome blue sneakers with a Pikachu-etched design on it. "Coordinated in color and theme!"
"Yooooo..." Aubrey checked herself out in the mirror. "This is rad! Are you sure you're not a fashion designer in your spare time, Jake?"
"I don't have the actual skills to sew or create looks. I would kill as a stylist or writer of fashion-related works though." Jake winked.
"Well, if I was any better at mending clothes I could definitely help you on that front," Lillie mentioned.
"That's very kind of you to offer Lillie." The professor's assistant smiled at Jake's compliment.
"Well, I think we'll go check out the mall next," Aubrey decided. "Wonder what they've got in there..."
Lillie paused for just a brief moment before saying, "I think I'll let you two poke around in there. I'll catch up later, okay?"
"Sounds good. Stay safe, Lillie," Aubrey saw her off with a hug before stepping outside to head to the mall, which was more or less right next door to the hair salon. The boutique would be on the lower floor to the right of the entrance, and it was quite a high-end place in terms of clothing they had on sale.
"Oh god. I can smell the gold cards coming from within this place." Jake tensed as he could tell. This was a place of expense rather than expensiveness.
"Gold cards? You mean this place being out of my price range?" Aubrey asked. Jake and Forrest nodded grimly. "Well, we might just go ahead and browse this place." The ranger started looking around on what they had for sale, and needless to say, the price tags would be quite telling.
So they most certainly spectated and perused the place though were quickly finding nothing relatable to their wallets or sense of style. Besides some gorgeous yet tragically overpriced accessories.
"What the heck is up with these tops?" Aubrey wondered. "This sash like thing...does the other part of it go inside the shirt or is this all there is?"
Jake looked around the back and to his DISGUST, it didn't. "VULGAR! What nimrod successfully put this piece of clothing for sale? It's no better than pinning the bow on!"
"Yeah...and then these hats and brooches like-" She gasped. "Why is such a cute hat so highly priced?"
"Sadism." Jake said seriously.
"At least the shades are cool...if they weren't so high priced I'd definitely get a pair," Aubrey tried to be optimistic about this place...and then her eyes fell on the price tag for the bags.
She was stunned silent. Her mind was trying to think of the words to say, but the ranger was having trouble getting the words out. This went on for a moment until Jake saw what she was seeing.
Jake selflessly rescued Aubrey from the sight, pulling her into a close hug and patting her on the back. "It's ok...you're safe now...We'll endure and eventually make peace with that horrendous price tag together...Ranger Aubrey." Forrest looked a bit amused from the melodrama.
"...Are these bags intended to be shields from Pokemon attacks?" Aubrey finally got out, her brain having caught up with reality.
"Maybe they hold gold bars inside of them." Jake joked, still hugging Aubrey. "Or better yet, a bunch of Rare Candies."
"You can let go of me now, man," Aubrey then laughed.
"Ok my poor unfortunate soul who had to witness that." Jake said and he released her. Eventually a salesperson came to check in with the customers.
"Are you enjoying your visit and is there anything I can do to help you make a selection?" She asked. She was pointedly dressed in clothes that looked like they'd be sold from this store and had dolled up makeup and hair.
"Uh...yeah, what exactly are these bags made out of to warrant a high price tag?" Aubrey asked. "That's like six months worth of my salary, and I work at the Ranger Union."
"They are made of very rare and very durable yet fashionable fabrics. They are waterproof, fireproof, attackproof, melted goodies proof, and also breathable and light." The salesperson explained. "Also they are made in limited quantities."
"Limited quantities is synonymous with designer fashion that is true... but even Valerie's line was much more affordable than this." Jake said.
"Sorry but we don't carry indie brands here."
"Well excuse YOU! She is very much NOT indie, she is of the moment in Kalos and many other regions thank you very much." Jake said defiantly.
"Kalos looks aren't very common in Alola. Alola prides itself on a distinct style and fun, fresh series of brands that fit the climate and are stylish and wearable."
"Well to be fair, this is literally the second boutique we've come into," Aubrey tried to defuse the situation. "Maybe we haven't seen everything Alola has to offer, but, I don't think it's fair to knock Kalos fashion as 'indie brands'."
"It is according to our brand department manager..." The salesperson admitted with a nervous look. "But either way, if these looks don't appeal to you then may I recommend thrift shopping? Sometimes you can find luxe-looking and just as stylish goods made by local vendors, crafters, and designers at the festivals and weekly farmer's market."
"The problem isn't these looks not appealing to us, it's the prices! Outrageous!" Jake emphasized.
"Oh. Well. If you have a membership card then you could get a significant discount and monthly benefits. Gold card members also get to choose and preview the newest designs."
"Since me and Aubrey here value our sanity and have self-respect of what currency should actually go to, we'll spare you from telling us how much the gold card is and just tell you that you are very good at your job." Jake nodded humbly.
"...Thank you I guess?" The salesperson was struck with confusion.
"Mmm...he might be onto something," A semi-high pitched voice was heard, directing that towards the three.
In walked in a five foot six, 130 pound young lady who was somewhere in between 18 and 19 years old, had caramel skin, platinum blonde hair, and brown eyes. She had on a white V-neck, red and white plaid miniskirt, and multi-beige sneakers with white crew socks.
"I just heard you talking about the prices here, and I might be inclined to agree. Are you perhaps a disciple of Burgh's? Or maybe even Valerie's? The way you talk about fashion makes me think as much," She asked of Jake.
"Well I do admire great designers, fabulous styles, AFFORDABLE PRICES, and all-region exclusivity." Jake gave a hard stare towards the bewildered salesperson when mentioning 'affordable prices'. "Who are you by the way? You got a nice fun sport-loving gal look going on."
"Oh, right. Kiara Dermott. I answer to Key," The young lady greeted. "And you two are...?"
"Jake Hagguire of Hoenn and now Alola. This is Aubrey Bradford, the Ranger of... actually where are you from?" Jake asked, not sure if he knew of the specific region she was hailing from.
"Summerland. Fiore region," Aubrey answered. Key's eyes lit up.
"Oooh! I've never met a ranger before!" She squeed. To the saleswoman she said, "As a fellow businesswoman to another, I must commend your recommendations. I can see why Jake here would make a fuss about the prices, although..." She looked at the tops they were judging earlier. "Maybe make this sash a bit more...complete? Just a friendly little suggestion." The salesperson seemed to write this down in a small checklist she pulled out of her pocket, taking Key's critique seriously.
"I've never even heard of this region!" Jake looked in awe. "Do they have a Summerland Festival? That sounds vaguely familiar..."
"Well, it's host to the Marine Challenge. I can tell you all about it once we have a moment to ourselves," Aubrey answered. Then to Key she asked, "Wait...businesswoman?"
"That's right!" Key answered cheerfully. "You're looking at one of the many and proud traveling sales representatives of Sevii Mercantile, based out of Celadon City in the Kanto region. I'm here on business and couldn't help but overhear your conundrum."
"Oh Celadon City. That is a place of great prestige and acclaim around here. It's got the best perfumes in the world! We even used one of them today if you would so kindly smell it. 'Belle of Bellossom'." The salesperson advertised.
"Regardless of the free promo, Celadon City is a reputable place of business. You must be a super expert or prestigious salesperson then if you are involved with Sevii Mercantile." Jake said in awe.
"Ah, so you have heard of us! No wonder you're so receptive to my feedback," Key noted of the saleswoman. "And, I wouldn't exactly call myself an expert. I've only been with them for a few years. Anyway, would you like to see what I have available, Miss Ranger? You're the exact kind of individual we sell to."
"Sure, I don't see why not," Aubrey agreed.
"Wonderful! You have a nice day, madam!" Key went outside of the boutique, prompting Aubrey to look at Jake.
"She's certainly eager, I can tell you that much," She noted.
"I like it! Bye ma'am!" Jake gleefully waves goodbye to the salesperson who is still deciding if Jake was being disrespectful or having an apt opinion to take into consideration. Jake and Aubrey soon went outside to reunite with Key.
She was sitting outside the boutique on a bench, with a tablet in hand that was essentially an e-catalog.
"Thanks for the input back there, Key," Aubrey thanked. "Either I defused that situation myself or we get thrown out by mall security."
"Ah, think nothing of it, Aubrey," The merchant kindly replied. "I was only doing what I thought was the right thing to do."
"As was I." Jake beamed. Forrest gave a look of disapproval of Jake. "...Well ok, maybe I was a bit critical. Fashion is a passionate topic of mine and if Alola is going to be stingy with their takes on it and make it overpriced here then I'm not happy about it. Yet another thing to worry about in this region. Good Fairy Valerie's name being dragged through the mud." Jake then sighed and took a few breaths to recompose himself before turning his attention to Key.
"Mmm, I can see why you feel that way. We've collaborated with Valerie before on a collection and I must say, it was quite a hit with customers such as yourself," Key assured Jake with a smile. "So, Miss Ranger, would you like to take a look at our catalog?"
"Sure, hand it here." Aubrey would take the tablet and start browsing.
"So you don't have to buy anything today, but if you'd like, you can browse around in our online catalog for something that may interest the two of you. First time customers get a moderate discount on their first total purchase. We believe that it's a warm way to invite new customers and generate business," Key informed.
"So thrifty! So open! So exclusive! I love it! Aubrey you should go first and find accessories that don't send you into catatonic shock!" Jake urged excitedly.
"Hmm, let's see...camping equipment, cookware, self-defense...accessories?" She noted the section had some new stock. Or rather, 'coming soon' on its tab.
"Oh, right!" Key perked up. "That's part of why I'm here!"
"I take it this has something to do with the 'coming soon' stamp for accessories?" Aubrey guessed. The merchant nodded.
"That's correct. You see, Sevii Mercantile is looking to make a new collection of goods based off the Alola region. I've been sent here to get some ideas for new things to put on the market," She explained. "I've heard about these Z-Crystals and thought 'Those could make for wonderful jewelry and assorted trinkets!'"
"...You're not actually going to-" Aubrey got cut off.
"Oh, Arceus no. I only plan on using them as a basis so we can make replicas of them. All the beauty of a Z-Crystal without the combat power," Key answered.
"...Do you have any business with Mega Rings by any chance?" Jake asked curiously. "Either way that's cool to know you find some purpose to what Alola claims is a 'Arceussend'" Aubrey then realized Jake was probably going to give Z-Crystals a hard time for quite awhile.
"As a matter of fact, we do. But it's mainly customizing your Mega Ring with different patterns, colors, and other add-ons," Key answered. "Why do you ask?"
"Just curious." Jake said innocently.
"Okay. If you say so," Key responded, not picking up on the lie. Seeing Aubrey's Z-Ring, she had an idea. "Say...you're on the island trial challenge, yes?"
"Yeah, why?" Aubrey honestly answered.
"Mmm...I'll tell you what. If you two can get me one of each of the Z-Crystals, I'll see to it that you're both paid handsomely for helping," Key offered. "There are some special Z-Crystals...but I can get those for you. They're trickier to obtain."
"Ooh nice! So we get paid for going on a scavenger hunt and help do some research at the same time!" Jake eagerly answered.
"Then yeah, we'll help!" Aubrey agreed.
"Oooh, thank you both so much!" Key giggled. "I owe you one for this. Here, have my card." She'd hand them a business card. "I travel around a lot, so may we meet again!" After taking the tablet back, Key would go on her merry way.
"...Someone certainly wakes up on the right side of the bed every day," The ranger noted, chuckling. "I imagine she's pretty good at what she does."
"Yeah like a true professional, she carries herself well." Jake nodded, impressed.
Aubrey nodded. "Wanna keep poking around the city?"
"Sure, the day's still young after all!" Jake said as stretched his arms.
The two would leave the mall, heading down the street and passing by a Pokemon Center when Aubrey paused in her tracks, hearing a man and woman talking with each other.
"I saw those Team Skull numskulls loitering around the marina again," The man said. "I reported it to the captain, of course."
"This is what happens when young people have nothing to do and too much time on their hands!" The woman huffed.
"What a bunch of useless thugs!" The man seemed to share her sentiments. "All they do is drag Trainers into battles they don't want and try to steal people's Pokemon!"
"I heard they keep trying to sneak into the trial site to steal Pokemon to sell..." The woman mentioned. That last bit caused Aubrey to furrow her eyebrows.
"Okay...this deserves looking into," She said to Jake.
Jake as well looked startled but also rather annoyed. The mere mention of 'Team' was like a Pokemon taboo at this point. Some idiots probably working for a bad or misguided cause causing trouble and wearing abnormally bad uniforms that Jake was sure their parents were embarrassed by. "Yeah let's go!" He said with determination.
The pair would pass by city hall on their way to the marina, and then the malasada shop where Hau was walking out of. "Howzit, fellas? If you're looking for good eats, you've found 'em!" He then saw they weren't too interested in food right now. "Something troubling ya?"
"This Team Skull group is at the marina. We're gonna go check it out," Aubrey quickly answered.
"Ooh, them. Yeah, they're bad news alright. But after seeing what you two are capable of, I'm positive they're nothing you can't handle," Hau optimistically encouraged.
"Well yeah, but why are we handling them in the first place? What business do they have there in the marina and how long have they been around?" Jake inquired, determined for the deets.
"Sorry, I wouldn't know," Hau answered. "As for what they're doing...well, isn't that what you wanna find out, Aubrey?"
"Obviously. If they're nothing like you said, my presence alone should be enough to deter them," Aubrey answered. "I just get...upset, when I hear about criminals taking others Pokemon. It's not right."
"Naturally it's right to be upset about such crooked activity, Aubrey. I am too because criminal organizations never prosper in any region and it's wrong to just harm innocent Pokemon for a cause doomed to fail." Jake shared his sympathy on the matter.
"Yup, if Tutu and the captain can keep them in check, I'm sure we can too," Hau mused. "And besides, now that I've got some fuel in me, I wanna go right down to the marina and scream out loud...'Watch me, Tutu!'" He paused, changing his mind on what to say. "No...'Watch me, world! I'm gonna beat even my old gramps someday!'"
Aubrey's sour mood turned sweet hearing Hau's idea for a pledge he'd make to Alola. "Well that's quite a goal you're willing to set for yourself there, Hau. If you want, we can go together."
"Hoo-ee! Let's do it!" Hau was ready to follow them to the marina.
"Ok then! Ranger, Fashionista, Titanic Third Wheel. Let's set out." Channeling Aubrey's spirit, he and Forrest did their signature poses. The new mission had begun.
Aubrey did hers as well, Tenor and Nom gladly joining the fun.
"Woah! Those are so cool!" Hau complimented.
"Thank you! It's a Ranger tradition that I am quickly stanning."
"...I never understood why random TMs are laid out in the grass." Jake admitted.
Hau simply shrugged. "There's a lot of things about our world I don't question much. Maybe someone got rid of it."
"Well either way...what was that method you suggested for using TMs again, Jake?" Aubrey asked. Tenor looked eager to learn a new technique.
"Simply you declare the name of the move that the TM contains and say you want to teach it to a specific Pokemon who you name aloud. That should trigger it," He answered.
"Right. Let's give it a try!" With the TM in hand, Aubrey would recite, "Echoed Voice, I want Tenor to learn this."
Amazingly, after some tech looking light show happened with the TM spinning in the ranger's hands, Tenor would do a flip, and use the move as show on the TM to signal that it was successfully learned.
"Great!" Jake fist pumped the air.
"Holy Arceus, that's amazing!" Aubrey cheered. Hau cheered with them as Tenor did a bow. "Alright, that should definitely come in handy for the road ahead."
"Yup!" Hau agreed. "Back on the road to the marina we go!"
After passing by the Alola Photo Club, the three would arrive at the marina. With no one screaming 'Team Skull' standing out. But Ilima was there, waving to the three as they arrived.
"Greetings!" He said. "So, how is Hau'oli treating you two so far?"
"Gotta say, I like how it's got a little bit of everything," Aubrey mused. "I feel like if I wanted to I could move here and be just fine."
"Provided we have a budget." Jake joked.
Before Ilima could respond, a sharp voice echoed throughout the marina. "Yo, yo, yo, check it! Whenever, wherever we meet you, Team Skull don't even greet you!"
"And there's the people of the hour..." Hau murmured to Jake. Two interestingly dressed men with light blue hair poking out from their quite literal skull caps were seen doing a strange dance up to the group. Even with their own pose!
"So, Cap, just give up the Pokemon, yo," One of them demanded. Ilima of course, paid them no mind.
"Well that's good to hear. I have heard things about the prices at the mall boutique. Though it does appeal to a more nouveau riche clientele," Ilima mentioned to Jake. This seemed to light a fire under the goons, as they were now up in the group's space.
"What, what!? Why you trying to act hard when we're already hard as bone out here, homie?" The first grunt angrily demanded, not taking the slight well.
"Yo, let's check these fools," The second suggested.
"I was hoping you'd be this stupid," Aubrey couldn't help but show a confident smirk. If they wanted to throw down, they'd get their wish from her.
"Can we help you two posers out in some way?" Jake politely asked though the sass in his undertone was unmistakable.
"Posers!?" The second grunt's attention went to Jake. The sass was enough to make him ignore the pugnacious ranger. "What'cha mean posers!? We're only the hardest boys out here, Team Skull!"
"Yeah yeah, I heard your sexual innuendo the first time and it's no less disgusting than your outfit." Jake emphasized.
Fortunately, the dirty implications flew over Hau's head. "I take it you've got plenty to say on their style of dress?"
"Yeah! What's wrong with it, homie?" The grunt demanded.
"First off, that hair color is tacky. The necklace is unwieldy and uncomfortable looking with an 'S' that stands for Arceus knows what. Your dressed in typical slumdog-style clothes. The high-tops look like they were mass-produced and are of low-quality. The whole look is boring black and white which goes with skeletons I guess but why on earth would your team name be based on something that is DEAD!" As Jake was listing off the problems, Aubrey would be seen behind him slugging it out with the other grunt. It wouldn't take a genius to tell who would be standing by the end of that.
"Rrgh, that does it! Lemme show you how I change up the game with my mad Pokemon skills, boy!" The roasted grunt sent out a Zubat to battle Jake with.
"Geez... can't be that mad if all you have is a Zubat. Forrest, Shadow Sneak!" Forrest sneakily stealths into the shadows from Jake's shoulder.
The Zubat's attempt at using Supersonic was missed due to the move, Hau in Jake's corner.
"You got this, man!" He encouraged. Forrest then emerged from above Zubat and divekicked stomped the Zubat down and onto the ground in ruthless fashion. The beatdown was swift on Jake's end, the Zubat defeated.
"For real?! Over already!?" The grunt incredulously looked surprised by this.
"See, what'd I tell ya?" Hau patted Jake on the back. "Nothing to it."
"It helps that I don't have to hold back against cowardly grunts like this one. Now fess up Team Skull. What are you planning?" Jake shook Hau's hand before turning his attention, and wrath, to the grunt.
"Hmph! Like I'd tell you what we're up to!" The grunt responded, defiant.
"Oi..." Aubrey's voice was heard, standing over the grunt's cohort, who was on the ground in a bit of pain. "If your plan was to steal the captain's Pokemon, it was never gonna work. And those who steal others Pokemon, well..." She pounded her fist against her open palm. "I become your worst nightmare."
"Ungh...let's get out of this port, B! Nobody has to know about this!" The first grunt got out, wincing from the beatdown he was on the receiving end of.
The second grunt, apparently named B, looked at this sight with a wide-eyed look of fear. Jake also looked surprised at Aubrey's intense seething anger though respected why it was so.
"I'd suggest running or spilling the beans if you know what's good for you." Jake said. B grabbed his hurt friend and decided to take the first option, by running out of the marina. Aubrey took a breath and smiled.
"Ah, that felt great," She giggled.
"Ever empowering I must admit." Jake patted Forrest on the head once the Grass Quill Pokemon returned to his shoulder, Forrest beaming with pride. Ilima shook his head with a smile.
"I was about to deal with that first one myself, but Aubrey jumped in without another word," He said. "My thanks to you and your Pokemon."
"You're welcome," Jake courteously replied.
"I must admit, I've been wondering about you two since I saw you both at the Trainers' School," Ilima confided. "Professor Kukui brought you along to show Aubrey a thing or two, and her Pokemon came along and seemed to defeat our teacher so effortlessly!"
"Maybe she is a natural at this trainer thing!" Hau suggested, causing Aubrey to have a slight, embarrassed blush. It was what she wanted to be after all.
"Well it helps she's an expert on the inner workings of Pokemon as a Ranger to begin with. Seeing and seizing their potential but respecting them as equals on the battlefield. It's a winning combination." Jake was more eloquent with his explanation.
"I see! Then if it's no problem to you Aubrey, let me see if you're ready for my trial!" Ilima offered, impressed by her credentials.
"Alright then, man. You're on!" Aubrey eagerly accepted.
Ilima closed his eyes before opening them with a smile of his own. "Behold the magnificent Pokemon of the one and only Captain Ilima!"
"Oh boy, good luck to both of you then. My money's on Aubrey." Despite not being into the Game Corners of days past, Jake was willing to bet on his new friend.
Ilima's first Pokemon was a Yungoos, in an Ultra Ball which was certainly surprising. Tenor was sent out to do battle. "Alright, let's see what we can do with the new technique, Tenor. Echoed Voice!" Aubrey ordered.
Her Popplio put this to work, battling evenly with Yungoos and the Echoed Voice attacks doing more and more damage as he kept on attacking. He was even able to blow Yungoos back to avoid damage as it went down. All that would change when Ilima sent out his next Pokemon, Smeargle. Aubrey wanted to keep the Echoed Voice train rolling, but two words would catch her by surprise.
"Smeargle, Leafage!" Ilima exclaimed, the Sketch Pokemon going and flooring Tenor with a single hit.
"Oh you're kidding me…" Aubrey grimaced.
"Well crap." Jake admitted in nervousness, Forrest also looked intimidated.
"It's gonna be okay...Nom, get us out of this mess!" Aubrey exclaimed, calling out her Grubbin. Nom sized up her bigger opponent, and gave a sassy look that she'd be able to come out on top.
Nom's first instinct was to use Mud-Slap to start getting Smeargle to miss its Tackle attacks, timing her attacks to get them to miss. It took some effort, but it started to work! Next she went for a String Shot to tie him up, slowing his movements. This would open the door for Nom, who had a rough time getting started, to start hammering away with Vice Grip, able to shift the tide of battle back in Aubrey's favor to come out on top.
"Sensational!" Ilima complimented.
"Nom, that was incredible!" Aubrey cheered. Nom smiled at the praise.
"Whoo! Comeback queen!" Even Jake got in on the celebration.
"Grub! Grub! Grub!" Nom hyped herself up, bouncing around as if to say 'Who's queen of the hill!?'
"You - or should I say, you and your Pokemon - make quite the interesting team!" Ilima complimented. "I do hope you'll come to the Verdant Cavern and attempt the trial - the trial of Ilima! You can get there from Route 2. That Rotom Dex of yours will show you the way."
"Zzt zzt! I sure can, dreamboat!" Rotom chimed. Ilima laughed.
"Alright, I'll see you there!" With that, he took off. Aubrey noticed Jake looked quite self-conscious about the situation even though he had celebrated Aubrey's victory. Hau even picked up on it.
"Something on your mind, Jake?" The ranger would be the one to ask.
"I think I need to get another Pokemon if I am to stand a chance against his Trial... Forrest is amazing but, a solo act can only get you so far." Jake muttered.
"Huh. Well, if we happen to see anything you might like, I'll help ya catch it," Aubrey offered. "No idea what Team Skull was up to here, but it likely had to do with taking Ilima's Pokemon. Glad we were able to dissuade them from doing so!"
"Yeah we rule!" With their poses for a successful mission clear, Rotom would guide Aubrey and Jake to Route 2, to continue their adventure.
(And that's another part of Day 2 complete! This new character Key, I was debating whether or not I should have my other OC that I've been playing as in Ultra Sun in this story, and I eventually decided I'd go for it. We'll be seeing more of her later on, but hopefully she'll be another neat addition to the cast. Next time, we take on the first trial! It should be a good time. Bye for now!)