Chapter 23: A Full-Powered Pokémon Festival!
Kaito's POV
"A Pokémon Battle Festival? You mean, there's a festival going around Iki Town soon?" Ash asked. As he spoke in question yet sounding excited, I couldn't help but be curious, too. Hau grinned before he explained.
"Right! Tutu announced it and said that anyone is welcome to try as long as they don't cause any mischief, like those Team Skull numbskulls!" Hau explained.
Right now, my friends and I were at the Pokémon School, having lunch together. Hau was eating with us as he had transferred yesterday when we went to the beach to enjoy our time there. Camilla transferred too, as Mrs. Summers thought it would be a great idea for her to make friends like us.
I mean, I didn't mind at all. This way, I would be able to learn more from Camilla and about what occurred two days ago. Not to mention, I would be able to look forward to getting some more answers that I was hoping to get sometime later.
At first, Camilla was more reserved than ever since this was the first time she met the others at the Pokémon School. But after the girls tried to befriend her during our beach time together, she opened up a little more, showing her real self slowly to all of us.
Hau on the other hand, was already a good friend to the others when he offered some malasadas for all of us to eat together during lunch. Not to mention, his two Pokémon immediately got along with all of our Pokémon friends that we treasured.
Ever since yesterday, it seemed like they would be great friends or classmates to have around.
But for today during lunch, Hau revealed to all of us some news that seemed to excite Ash and Kiawe the most, which seemed to be a festival of some sort that would occur at Iki Town someday later.
"If that's the case, then I should enter! With Turtonator by my side, I'm sure we'll be able to win against anyone!" Kiawe declared confidently, causing me to give my hot-headed friend a bland expression.
"Aren't you getting ahead of yourself? There could be plenty of strong opponents to battle against..." I spoke out, until Ash grinned, immediately liking the idea of a big tournament that would take place someday.
"The stronger the opponents are, the more excited that makes me! I'm gonna enter, too! And we're gonna win it! Right, Pikachu?" Ash asked, turning to his Electric Type partner, who was eating with the other Pokémon.
"Pika Pika!" Pikachu agreed, showing how determined he was to win in a big battle.
"Huh!? A Pokémon Battle Festival!? If that's true, then there is sure to be lots of Pokémon that I haven't pictured yet! I want to see and get some more data!" Rotom buzzed, feeling excited to meet new Pokémon that it hasn't seen yet.
"You two..." I sighed before I gave a chuckle. When it comes to a Pokémon battle, they'll never sit out unless it's someone else's turn to take the field. Though, I can't blame them for wanting to participate since I'm kinda curious myself.
"So it's like a tournament. I think I'll pass... Bounsweet and I aren't really cut out for battles yet!" Mallow said sheepishly, with Lana nodding in agreement.
"Yeah... Popplio and I haven't experienced battling much, so we'll pass, too." Lana said, with Popplio giving a sad bark.
"That's too bad... I was kinda hoping to see what you two could do during a battle." I admitted. To be quite honest, I've never seen Mallow or Lana in a battle before. Ash and Kiawe were really good in battles. Sophocles was okay, and so was Hau.
As for Lillie, she doesn't have a Pokémon of her own yet besides the Egg that has yet to hatch. Camilla on the other hand, might be a tough opponent to face against since she put a tough fight.
"Are you going to enter, Camilla? From the way Hau speaks of you, you sound like a good Pokémon Trainer that likes to battle a lot." Lillie asked, turning to our new classmate. Camilla blinked at the question before she smiled.
"Of course I'm going to enter. I have a reputation to protect for the people in Akala Island. Not only that, I'm also curious to know what might happen at the tournament coming up." Camilla explained proudly, causing me to blink.
Funny... This doesn't seem to be the Camilla I once knew yesterday and the day before that...
Maybe her attitude changes when there's a serious battle that's about to happen? I guess that makes sense. I mean, she looked and sounded serious when she battled both Hau and me separately when I made that deal with her on that night.
"Hey, Sophocles! Are you going to enter?" Ash asked, causing our inventing kid to blink before he gave a sheepish smile.
"To be honest, I don't really know. I mean, Togedemaru and I are kind of good in battling, but... I'm not sure how we'll do during the competition." Sophocles admitted until Hau chimed in, encouraging our inventing kid to enter.
"Come on, you should enter! I promise you, it's gonna be real fun!" Hau insisted, causing Sophocles to blink before he gave a sheepish grin at the insistence from Kahuna Hala's grandson.
"Uh... When you put it that way, why not? I'll enter!" Sophocles exclaimed, causing Hau to grin at the competition getting bigger.
So... this is how it's going to be, huh? A competition between the six of us and other Trainers that can be tough in battles. This should be interesting, but hard at the same time.
End POV
(Pokémon Opening: Breathe English Subbed)
(I do not own this ending song)
A music chart full of positive words
Giving a supportive push even when you didn't ask
(Kaito opens his eyes, before revealing the Sea Gauntlet, which began to shine brightly)
(The opening title reveals itself on the screen)
You are doing your best already
Don't know why you're rushing and forcing yourself to change something
(Shiho trips, much to Seita's surprise until Kaito helps his little sister up, causing Shiho to smile)
(Kaito is joined by Buizel and Rockruff, before he turns to see Ash and the rest of his classmates calling to him while running towards him)
Do you think that you're not good enough now? If you don't act quick enough
(Hau is eating a malasada with Pichu and Eevee before he blinks, turning to the window of the malasada shop to see dark clouds)
(Camilla is enjoying her time at the beach with Austin, Comfey, Fomantis, Litten, and Cutiefly until she notices the dark clouds)
Can you not make it to the future?
(Kaito watches the sky as he sighs before Ash puts his arm around his shoulder, much to his surprise as Ash grins at him)
(The boys watch with Shiho and Seita, seeing Buizel and Pikachu sparring together, with Rowlet and Rockruff against one another)
The negative is only an important fragment of
Your spectacular journey
(Kaito is near the ocean until he turns to see unknown people sending out their Pokémon to attack him)
(Kaito tries to defend himself only for the enemies to blast all their attacks on him)
(Just as Kaito looked like he was hit, a giant thunderbolt repelled the attacks, revealing Zeraora)
Why not just be as you are
If you make an unassuming voice, it will echo
(Storm clouds gather before a giant wave splashes in the air)
(Camilla holds her necklace to her, looking afraid until she's comforted by her Pokémon)
(A boy walks up on a cliff with a Rockruff, who has a strange gemstone attached on its neck)
I've heard it from a well-known phrase, before you know it, it will still remain unchanged
(King Kaisuke reunites with Shizuka, who smiles at the Sea King with tears welling up in her eyes)
(A Primarina uses Oceanic Operetta, as the giant water orb explodes, splashing water everywhere)
Even if it doesn't become famous, it's still your song
(Kaito and Ash faces Zeraora with Pikachu and Buizel as the battle gets intense)
(Kaito opens his eyes again, only to be sleeping on the beach with all of his friends and Pokémon)
(Opening End)
"I'm home!" Kaito called out as he and Buizel arrived back at their house. Shiho and Seita were both there to greet the two as they ran up to them!
"Welcome home, big brother!"
"Welcome back, big bro!"
The two hugged their brother's arms, with Shiho holding his left and Seita holding his right. The Alola boy gave a chuckle before he led his two siblings and Buizel to the couch where they sat down together to talk about what occurred today.
"What happened today, big bro?" Seita asked, as he was curious to know what his brother did at the Pokémon School.
"Nothing much, really. Except... there's going to be a tournament someday." Kaito said, his smile rising to a small grin. At the mention of the competition, both of his siblings widened their eyes as Seita was the first to express his excitement.
"A tournament!? Whoa! That means there's going to be lots of Pokémon, right? Are you going to beat them all in a battle, big bro?" Seita asked, causing Buizel to fold his arms before making his cry confidently.
"Bui! Bu bui!" Buizel cried out, causing the Alola boy to chuckle before he responded with a smile and nod.
"Yeah... Buizel, Rockruff, and I will all show everyone on how strong we are together. I hope that you two will be there to watch me win the whole thing." Kaito said as he rubbed Seita and Shiho's heads affectionately, causing the two to smile.
"Of course we will. We both know that you and your Pokémon friends are strong, big brother. We hope that you'll do great in the competition." Shiho said softly, earning a nod from her brother in thanks.
"Thanks, Shiho..." Kaito said before he looked out at the window, remembering who still wasn't around yet.
"Mom... Dad..." Kaito whispered silently, as he sighed. He laid his head back on the couch, wanting to relax for a while. Sensing this, the Sea Weasel Pokémon turned to his human brother with a curious expression while turning his head to the left.
"Bui?" Buizel asked curiously, causing the Alola boy to smile at his Water Type, before he rubbed his furry head.
"Nothing for you to be worried about, Bui. I'm just thinking about some stuff, that's all." Kaito assured, causing the Water Type to smile at the affection he was given. It was when Seita rose up a question about who wasn't with them at the moment.
"Hey, big bro? When do you think Mom is gonna come back? It's been about a month since she hasn't come back home..." Seita asked, causing the Alola boy to lose his smile before he frowned.
"Don't know, little bro... I guess... whenever she feels like it. To be honest, I'm not sure when she wants to come, either. But I just know that she'll be back someday. That, I can promise." Kaito said before Shiho piped up.
"What about Daddy, big brother? What about him?" Shiho asked, causing the Alola boy to blink before he frowned. He hasn't heard from his father for months now, which was even longer than when Shizuka left for her job with Mrs. Summers.
"I... don't know, Shiho. He'll probably come back to us when the time is right. I'm not sure when, but... try to have faith in him. Maybe he'll come back if we believe that he will." Kaito said sheepishly, causing the little sister to lose her frown a little.
"I... I guess you're right." Shiho said, though her tone sounded unsure.
At hearing this, the Alola boy sighed as Buizel came up to the three of them in worry.
"Bui?" Buizel asked, causing the Alola boy to smile weakly at his Water Type partner.
"Don't worry about it, Bui. It's... something about our parents." Kaito explained, causing the Sea Weasel Pokémon to frown before he folded his arms.
"Bu..." Buizel spoke before he opened his eyes again to see both Shiho and Seita looking a little worried. Kaito continued to comfort his siblings as he held them close to his arms as they all sat on the couch, all thinking about Shizuka and Kazuma.
Meanwhile...
At the Alolan Sea Kingdom, King Kaisuke was currently sitting at his throne, recalling of the small events that occurred the day after yesterday when three merchildren were reported missing.
But just as soon as the merpeople began their search for the three, the kids returned safely without a scratch. They however, looked a little scared of what could've happened to them when they went "missing".
Nagisa, the turquoise tail merboy explained to the King of what they've been doing and what they've done on the surface. When the little merboy mentioned about seeing a human boy that looked just like his son, it left Kaisuke a little speechless.
Nami and Takumi added in their parts of the story, which nearly matched Nagisa's story of when they've seen the lost Prince. At the three of them finishing their story, the Sea King thanked the three for their explanations before he dismissed them.
Ever since the three explained of when they've seen his son, Kaisuke couldn't help but smile proudly.
"So... My son was the one who saved those three children from those humans. If he was here now, then I would tell him I've never been prouder than any father would've been in the world we belong." Kaisuke thought before he heard someone calling to him.
"Your Majesty! Your Majesty!" A familiar voice called out. The Sea King blinked out of his thought before he turned to see the small seahorse-like Pokémon swimming up to him in a hurry.
"What is it, Horsea?" Kaisuke asked, before the small Water Type explained.
"You have a visitor! From the surface world!" Horsea panted, causing the Sea King to widen his eyes before they grew stern.
"Is it someone that I know?" Kaisuke asked, causing the Water Type to nod slowly before he explained.
"Yes. It's Kazuma, your Majesty." Horsea answered, causing the Sea King to blink before he nodded in thanks to the young Water Type. Not wanting for his human friend to wait too long, the Sea King grabbed his trident and swam out of the palace and kingdom to head for the surface.
As he surfaced from the water, the Sea King turned to see Kazuma waiting for him with his arms folded.
"Kazuma... This is a surprise." Kaisuke admitted as the foster father explained with a sigh.
"Well, I didn't know how else I would contact you since you're the one that came to me, so when I noticed the little Horsea that I recognized as your little messenger, I was able to catch its attention and ask if you were able to see me... Kaisuke." Kazuma said bluntly.
The Sea King raised an eyebrow in amusement before he looked around, before he raised a question to his old human friend.
"And? For what did you call me here for?" Kaisuke asked, causing the foster father to take a deep breath before he explained.
"You recall the deal that you asked me for? For when you would let me become one of your kind after Shizuka and the kids would return to you?" Kazuma asked, causing the Sea King to slowly nod before the foster father made his choice.
"I... I've decided to stay the way I am right now, Kaisuke... As much as I appreciate your offer, I don't think it would work out." Kazuma explained, causing the Sea King to narrow his eyes before he asked sternly.
"And why would that be...?" Kaisuke asked before the foster father explained, before he looked up at the night sky.
"If Kaito were to discover the secrets of his true heritage, well... Things might get a little ugly for me. He would discover that I was never his father and... Well, you might know what else would happen." Kazuma explained briefly.
The Sea King sighed, understanding what his old human friend meant. If his son were to discover everything that was being kept from him, the lost Prince would realize that his five years in the surface world was nothing but a lie as he was meant to belong in the sea.
Kazuma would be accused of being a liar and a fake father when all he was, was just someone that the Sea King could trust, ever since the foolish humans attacked the Alolan Sea Kingdom just to capture his son.
"Are you certain of this decision?" Kaisuke asked, earning a nod from his old human friend.
"Yes... It's best that if I stay the way I am and act as a father to your son while I still have the time. I'll be returning to Melemele Island whenever I have time." Kazuma explained. At the answer being confirmed, Kaisuke gave a sigh before he slowly approved of the foster father's decision.
"Very well, then..." Kaisuke said as he started to dive back underwater while saying his farewell to Kazuma, until the foster father spoke something that stopped the Sea King in his tracks.
"Also... I have a lead on who led the attack on your Kingdom." Kazuma said, causing the Sea King to blink before he widened his eyes at the foster father.
"What...!? Who!? Who was it!?" Kaisuke demanded loudly, causing the foster father to flinch at the sudden change of tone. Calming himself down, Kazuma cleared his throat and began to speak to the Sea King of who the culprit was behind the attack.
"I don't have the exact name of who led the attack, but I know one organization that did... That organization... Their name is..." Kazuma started to say before he whispered the words into Kaisuke's ear after he gestured the Sea King to come closer so he could hear closely.
"Unthinkable..." was all Kaisuke could say as he heard the name that was told to him. He sighed before he gave his old friend a stern expression.
"And you're sure of this...?" Kaisuke asked, causing the foster father to narrow his eyes.
"Have I ever told you any lie once?" Kazuma asked back, causing the Sea King to close his eyes before he spoke again.
"No... Not even once." Kaisuke admitted as the two remained silent with the sun starting to come down.
The next day...
"Starting this evening? This soon?" Kaito gaped as he couldn't believe the news he was hearing from the Kahuna's grandson.
Pokémon School had ended earlier, so everyone gathered together at the malasada shop that was at the shopping district. While the classmates were all enjoying the malasadas they bought for themselves and their Pokémon, Hau revealed the date of when the festival was going to occur.
"Yeah... Apparently, after Tutu announced the festival occurring along with the Pokémon Battle Festival Tournament, it attracted many Trainers as they wanted to participate in the competition, too! Although, there's only 16 allowed to compete, and that includes the 6 of us entering!" Hau explained.
"I see... So besides the six of us, there'll be ten more competing. This is going to be a bigger competition than I thought it would be." Camilla admitted, as she sighed before she bit onto her malasada again.
"And that means there could be many Trainers with strong Pokémon... Stronger Pokémon might be a bit of a trouble for some of you guys to handle..." Rotom buzzed out with a frown.
"Hey, that just make things more fun and interesting! The stronger they are, the harder we fight back! Isn't that right, Pikachu?" Ash asked, causing the Electric Type to nod with a grin.
"Pika Pika!" Pikachu cried out as Kiawe turned to the Kahuna's grandson.
"Hey, Hau... Kahuna Hala is your grandfather, right? Did he explain to you the rules of what's to occur in the tournament?" Kiawe asked, causing Hau to blink before he took out a manual that seemed to explain the festival and the tournament.
"I got the manual right here! Let's see here... The first round... The first and second round are all 1 on 1 battles. The semi-finals however, consists of 2 on 2 battles. If you only have one Pokémon with you, then you can only use that one and not someone else's temporarily..." Hau explained.
Both Kiawe and Sophocles paled at this, realizing the disadvantage they already had if they were to advance towards the semi-finals.
"And? What about the final round?" Lana asked, as she sounded eager to know.
"The final round... It consists of a 2 on 2 battle! It's basically the same as the semi-finals, except the finals is when the most intense battle shows!" Hau explained before he closed the manual, causing the Alola boy to sigh before he knew what he could've lacked.
"That's a relief... I only have Buizel and Rockruff, so if it were to have been a 3 on 3 battle, then I would already be at a disadvantage during the finals if I somehow manage to get up there..." Kaito thought before he gave a sigh of relief again.
"So the festival is going to be really busy then..." Mallow commented while Lillie frowned.
"Is Kahuna Hala going to be okay with all of this? If he was the one that announced the festival going to happen, then this might be a very busy day for him." Lillie asked, causing Hau to grin at her before he made a reassurance.
"Oh no, it's totally fine! Tutu has the people of Iki Town helping him out. Plus, my mom is helping too, with making the preparations, so it's no problem!" Hau reassured, causing Lillie to smile in relief before Lana spoke up.
"Are there any prizes for the winner of the tournament?" Lana asked, causing Hau to frown before he tried to think of what prizes there are, only to shake his head with a sheepish smile.
"Actually... Tutu wouldn't tell me since he didn't want to spoil it. He said it would be announced at the competition!" Hau explained, causing Sophocles to wonder.
"So it's like a surprise, then? Maybe it's something cool that could help me finish whatever I'm working on at the Sophocles Laboratory!" Sophocles exclaimed, hoping that the prize will be able to support him if he were to win.
"Or maybe it could be another Pokémon Egg... I want to look after something like that like how Lillie or Kaito is doing... Mimo might be thrilled..." Kiawe admitted before he sighed happily, thinking about his little sister.
"Or maybe it could be a cool new Pokémon to catch!" Ash insisted as he too, was excited about what top prize could be. As the three were imagining on what the prizes could be, Mallow pouted for their enthusiasm to enter and win.
"Mm... I wish I could be a strong Pokémon Trainer and enter the competition, but at the level Bounsweet and I are at, I don't think we could last that long." Mallow grumbled, causing Lillie and Lana to both understand on how she felt.
That evening...
"Are you two ready to go? The festival should be starting soon." Kaito called out as he was ready to leave with both Buizel and Rockruff at his side.
"We're coming!" Shiho called out as she ran downstairs to the living room with Seita as they ran over to their elder brother. But as they ran over to the Alola boy, Kaito could only blink in surprise for what his siblings were wearing.
"Uh... Seita? Shiho? What are you two wearing...? Aren't those...?" Kaito started to ask before Seita explained with a flushed face.
"It wasn't my idea, big bro... Shiho was the one who wanted the both of us to wear these yukatas..." Seita mumbled, having a pouted expression on his face, only for Kaito to give a small chuckle before he approved the two of wearing them together.
"Well, if you want my opinion, I like it. We're not gonna be staying for THAT long, but since it is a festival... I guess it's okay for the both of you to wear them." Kaito said, speaking his approval.
"Ruff! Ruff!"
"Bui!"
Even Buizel and Rockruff seemed to approve of the two wearing formal yukatas for the small festival as they seemed to like the design of it. Seita's design was dark-blue with white symbols that seemed to be small Pokéball signs.
Shiho's design seemed to be pink, with colorful flower designs on them, as the little sister smiled happily for the approval she was getting.
"Thanks, big brother!" Shiho said happily.
Later...
"Huh... I didn't expect the town to be this crowded because of the festival and competition going on..." Kaito admitted as he and his siblings arrived at Iki Town. Buizel and Rockruff were by their side when they arrived at the town.
What the Alola boy didn't expect was for the town to be so crowded. Just as he was about to lead his siblings the way to where his friends could be, he noticed someone familiar up ahead as he called out to that person.
"Oh! Kahuna Hala!" Kaito called out, catching the Fighting Type user's attention as he smiled before he walked up to the three siblings and their two Pokémon.
"Ah! Young Kaito! And I see you've brought your siblings with you! Alola, kids!" Hala said before making his Alola greeting.
"A-Alola, Kahuna Hala..."
"Alola!"
Shiho became a little stiff and spoke a bit nervously while Seita beamed at seeing the Kahuna as he gave his greeting a strong one, causing the Kahuna to chuckle at how the two greeted him back differently.
"It's good to see you again, Kahuna Hala... So how's the festival going?" Kaito asked, allowing the Fighting Type user to speak.
"Good to see you again, Kaito... As for the festival, it's going quite well, which I expect that it would." Hala said, causing the Alola boy to glance at the Kahuna in confusion before the Fighting Type user explained.
"You see, our festival today is held to express our thanks to these great Pokémon Guardian Deities for always remaining by our sides. Well, we may call it a festival, but it's just this little thing you see here besides the festival tournament that's about to occur soon." Hala explained.
"Huh... So this festival is for Tapu Koko then since he's the one that looks over Melemele Island." Kaito pointed out, earning a nod from the Kahuna.
With that said, the Alola boy said his small farewell to the Fighting Type user as Hala needed to make a little more preparations for the competition to begin. With that in mind, the Alola boy found himself walking around more with his siblings.
While he was looking for the others, Kaito found himself buying a Rockruff doll for Shiho and a Incineroar mask for Seita as they for some reason, wanted to buy those. Giving in, the Alola boy bought the items willingly, allowing his siblings to enjoy their new souvenirs happily.
It wasn't just the souvenirs that he bought for Shiho and Seita, he was asked to buy some snacks for them, causing him to use more of his money to buy some hot malasadas for the two to enjoy, as they even shared it with Buizel and Rockruff!
Appreciated for being given the snacks, both Buizel and Rockruff cried out their thanks for the younger siblings. The sight of it made the Alola boy smile before he heard someone call out to him, catching his attention.
"Kaito!" Hau called out. The Alola boy and his two siblings turned to see Hau running over with Pichu and Eevee at his side. Camilla was with the Kahuna's grandson with Austin at her side, along with Fomantis and Cutiefly.
"Howzit, Kaito? Man, I thought you'd never make it! Me, Pichu, and Eevee have been waiting for ages!" Hau exclaimed, with his two Pokémon crying out together in affirmation.
"Sorry about that... I was taking my two siblings to explore around the festival while looking for you guys... Speaking of, where are the others?" Kaito asked, causing Camilla to answer as Austin went over to interact with Shiho and Seita.
"The others are registering for the competition right now. Hau and I already have gotten our registration done, which is why we decided to take a small tour around the town until you came along. I assume that you didn't register yet?" Camilla asked.
The Alola boy sweat dropped before he confirmed her assumption to be correct.
"No, I didn't... I need to head over right away. Can you guys look after my siblings for me while I go?" Kaito asked, earning nods from his two friends.
"Sure thing! Go on!" Hau called out, causing the Alola boy to smile at the Kahuna's grandson in thanks before he ran to where the registration booth were. As he got there, he noticed Ash, Kiawe, and Sophocles already up ahead.
"Hey, guys!" Kaito called out, causing the boys to all turn to see their classmate running over to them.
"Hey, Kai! You're right on time! There's only three spots left!" Ash called out, causing the Alola boy to sigh before Sophocles showed him the way. Nodding in thanks, the Alola boy was about to line up behind two other Trainers until he was shoved out of the way.
"Beat it, brat!" A man snapped as the Alola boy grunted in pain as he was knocked down.
"Ugh! What the...!?" Kaito grunted as Ash, Kiawe, and Sophocles all ran over to their friend.
"Kai!" Ash exclaimed as Kiawe glared at the man that knocked his friend down.
"Alright, who do you think you are!?" Kiawe demanded as the Alola boy got up, with the help of the Kanto Trainer and the Electric kid. The man scoffed before he turned to glare and try to intimidate the boys.
"I don't need to tell you anything, you brats... Got it? I'll be the one to enter the competition and win the whole thing. A snot-nosed brat like you should just stay out of it!" The man snapped, causing Kaito to glare back.
This man was no ordinary man, but he wasn't a nice man, either, due to the attitude he was giving off and the way he pushed Kaito away.
The man looked like a man who would stalk anyone like a prey, due to the fierce eyes he had along with his teeth looking similar to a Sharpedo's teeth, but a little more human-like. His outfit was dark, and his hair looked a bit messy as well.
"That's where you're wrong..." Kaito grunted as he glared at the man, causing him to narrow his eyes.
"What did you say, you brat...?" The man growled, causing the Alola boy to glare back at him.
"You may think you're tough, but I don't believe Kahuna Hala would let someone like you enter a competition like this! Especially since you just push someone away for your own selfish reasons! And from the looks of things, you don't treat Pokémon as your friends or partners, either!" Kaito snapped.
"Kai's right! You have no right to just push him away and expect to get away with it!" Ash exclaimed, causing the man to twitch his eyes in annoyance.
"Why you little...!" The man started to get ready to fight the boys until he noticed the Sea Gauntlet on the Alola boy's left arm.
"W-What the heck...? That thing on the brat's arm! Could it be...?" The man thought as he felt sweat dripping from his forehead before he slowly took a few steps back as he huffed angrily, before taking his leave.
"Tch... Fine. Go ahead, kid... But don't go crying to me when you lose." The man grunted angrily before he took his leave, causing the boys to watch in confusion as everyone that heard the commotion watched the nasty man leave.
As he was leaving, he didn't notice Prof. Kukui coming by with Lillie as he didn't see the Alola Professor giving him a stern look before he continued to walk to where his students might be.
"Um... Professor Kukui? Are you feeling alright?" Lillie asked, causing the Alola Professor to lose his stern expression as he chuckled at Lillie looking worried for him.
"No, I'm fine, Lillie! I just made a quick Recover on my daze..." Prof. Kukui reassured brightly, causing Lillie to raise an eyebrow before she glanced to see the man that was leaving the town and the festival.
"Hm..." Lillie frowned before she continued to follow the Professor to find where all her friends were.
As for Kaito, he frowned to see the man leaving as he didn't expect him to suddenly leave like that when he looked like he was about to pick a fight with him.
"What was that all about...?" Kiawe asked, his face remaining stern.
"I have no idea..." Sophocles spoke out before the boys all heard a cleared throat coming from behind them as the man had his arms folded, as if he was waiting for the last participant to register for the competition.
"So, are you going to register or not, kid? The clock is ticking here." The man said, causing Kaito to blink before he apologized to the man that was waiting.
"Ah... Sorry!" Kaito apologized quickly before he registered himself to enter the tournament. Once he was able to register himself and the two Pokémon that he was going to compete with, the man took his paper and nodded to him while giving him a small slip of paper.
"Enjoy the festival until the competition begins. Your number will be called when you're in for a battle." The man said, causing the Alola boy to nod back.
Once the registration was complete, the Alola boy joined his friends as they had their Pokémon out, with Pikachu remaining on the Kanto Trainer's shoulder.
"Did you finish registering for the tournament?" Kiawe asked, causing Kaito to nod in response.
"Yeah... Looks like I managed to register just in time before it was over..." Kaito explained, as Sophocles quickly remembered the man that pushed his friend out of the way roughly.
"That man... Who was that guy? I don't remember ever seeing him around Melemele Island before." Sophocles said as he held Togedemaru in his arms. Kiawe pondered this as well as he sighed.
"I've got no clue... I've never seen him in Akala Island before either, so this is all new to me." Kiawe admitted, as Ash frowned.
"One thing's for sure, that guy wasn't a very nice person to meet! He's probably related to those guys... Team Skull!" Ash declared, causing the others to gaze at him in surprise, with Kiawe agreeing with it a little.
"That... might be possible." Kiawe admitted as Kaito frowned. Folding his arms, he began to think of the man when he reacted to something. Then, as if something zapped his mind, the Alola boy remembered that he still had the Sea Gauntlet attached to his arm.
"Could he have been intimidated by the Sea Gauntlet that I have with me right now?" Kaito thought as he watched the Gauntlet shine a little before it died out.
Later...
Soon, everyone reunited together as Prof. Kukui joined them. Hau and Camilla reunited with the others with Shiho and Seita with them. Buizel and Rockruff were with them, as they seemed to have enjoyed spending some of their time with the two, since they had satisfied expressions on their faces.
"So, how was it, you two?" Kaito asked, causing Seita to respond first.
"It was great! We were able to win some prizes from some of the games that we went to, big bro!" Seita explained as he revealed a Midnight Lycanroc figurine while Seita had a Midday Lycanroc pendant on her new necklace.
"Wow... Those are some nice prizes, you two. Well done! And Buizel and Rockruff? Thanks for looking after the two." Kaito said, causing his two Pokémon to cry out with smiles on their faces as the Alola boy thanked his new friends, too.
"Thanks for looking after them, you two. I wouldn't know what would've happened to them if you guys and my Pokémon weren't there watching over them." Kaito thanked, causing Hau to smile bashfully while Camilla just nodded back with a smile.
Just as everyone was about to speak together with a bright atmosphere in the air, the crowd suddenly began to quiet down, causing all the students and their Pokémon to turn and see Hala walking up on the platform where he battled against Kaito during the Grand Trial.
"It's about to start!"
"Finally! Kahuna Hala's announcing the competition!"
People were whispering to one another while some spoke to each other a bit more loudly as Hala cleared his throat before he spoke his words.
"For all life on our islands... and for those who undertake the Island Challenge with joy in their hearts... we pray for your protection... for them and all of Melemele. May this Pokémon Battle Festival Tournament be an offering to our island's Guardian Deity... Tapu Koko!" Hala announced.
Most of the people and citizens began to cheer for their Kahuna's words before the Fighting Type user revealed on who was battling who.
"First! Number 1 and 2! Please climb up onto the stage!" Hala called out. At the two numbers being called, Ash blinked before he took out his slip of paper. He opened it up, revealing his number, which was a 2.
"Alright! I'm battling first!" Ash called out, with Pikachu crying out his excitement.
"Pika Pika!" Pikachu exclaimed, causing the others to see the Kanto Trainer being called up as Kaito was the first to wish the Kanto Trainer luck in his first match.
"Good luck, Ash." Kaito called out, causing Ash to nod back at him as he stepped up onto the battling platform. The other competitors including Kaito, Hau, Kiawe, Sophocles, and Camilla looked at their slips of paper.
Kaito's number was 15.
Camilla's number was 9.
Kiawe's number was 12.
Sophocles' number was 14.
Hau's number was 3.
"Number one is me!" Another competitor called out. Everyone turned to see a youngster getting up on stage to face Ash as the Kanto Trainer grinned, as he looked ready to fight in the battle to win.
With the two Trainers ready to battle, Hala looked at both sides before he allowed the match to begin on his call.
"Bring out the true power of your Pokémon! Let the battle begin!" Hala called out, allowing the boys to send out their Pokémon.
"Pikachu! I choose you!"
"Rattata, you're up!"
The Mouse Pokémon faced the Alolan version of Rattata as the battle began.
Youngster: Rattata (Alolan) VS Ash: Pikachu
But it was no longer than 3 minutes when Pikachu was able to defeat the little Dark Type easily as the Mouse Pokémon was quickly able to overcome the Dark Type's speed with his own, while sending attacks that were much stronger than the Rattata.
One more Electro Ball knocked the Rattata away, ending the battle. The youngster fell to his knees as he groaned for his loss.
"Aw... I lost! And in the first round, too!" The youngster groaned, with Hala announcing the winner for the first match.
"Rattata is unable to battle! So the winner of this match goes to Ash!" Hala called out, causing the Electric Type and the Kanto Trainer to both cheer together for their victory together.
Winner: Ash
"All right!"
"Pikachu!"
The crowd applauded for the good battle the two pulled off together. Even the classmates were amazed with how well the Mouse Pokémon fought against the little Dark Type.
"Woo! That was a good battle! Pikachu was really strong out there!" Hau exclaimed, amazed with how well Ash was able to fight with Pikachu.
"This is just the beginning though, Hau... If you win your match, you might face Ash in the second round." Camilla reminded, causing the Kahuna's grandson to blink before he gave a sheepish grin.
"Oh yeah... That's true..." Hau said sheepishly before he listened to hear Hala calling on his number for the next match.
"Number 3 and 4! Please climb up onto the stage!" Hala called out.
"Wish me luck, guys!" Hau exclaimed as he and his opponent got onto the stage. As Kaito watched, he gave a sigh before he scratched the back of his head.
"You probably don't need luck, considering the skills you already have as a Trainer..." Kaito thought as he watched Hau use Eevee to defeat his opponent's Makuhita despite of some trouble he had due to the type disadvantage.
The matches continued on like this, with one Trainer defeating another. Kiawe and Camilla had no trouble defeating their opponents, which allowed them to reach the second round. Sophocles was able to defeat his opponent by strategizing his moves and on what he needed to do to win.
For Kaito, it didn't take long as Rockruff's Howl boosted his attacks, making his physical moves much stronger than how it normally does. It wasn't long before the second round would begin, with Hala showing on who was going against who.
1. Ash VS Hau
2. Ren VS Taka
3. Camilla VS Kiawe
4. Kaito VS Sophocles
"So it's true... I'm actually going against Ash in the second round!" Hau exclaimed, as the Kanto Trainer grinned for who he was up against.
"I always wanted to see how good Hau is in a Pokémon battle! I guess we might be able to see it now, huh, Pikachu?" Ash asked, turning to his Electric Type partner, who cried out in affirmation.
"I'm against Camilla...? So now I get to find out for myself on how good the 'Queen of the Waves' is actually is by facing her myself." Kiawe said, having a confident smile on his face.
"Kiawe... So this might be a bit harder since he uses a Fire and Dragon Type like Turtonator... That's sure to give me some trouble when our turn comes around..." Camilla spoke seriously, keeping the frown on her face.
"So I'm up against Sophocles? This should be challenging..." Kaito admitted, as he knew how Sophocles battled with Togedemaru.
"I'm battling against Kai? I guess I shouldn't be too surprised since I should've known I would have to face my friends in a battle someday..." Sophocles said sheepishly.
With little time passing, the Fighting Type user called up both Ash and Hau to step up to the battling platform, which they did. They both had their Pokéballs ready, which proved to show that the Kanto Trainer wasn't going to use Pikachu in this next battle.
Looking at both sides, the Melemele Kahuna cleared his throat before he signaled his call, allowing the first Top 8 battle to begin.
"Let the battle begin!" Hala called out, allowing both competitors to send out their battling Pokémon.
"Rowlet, I choose you!"
"Pichu, you're up!"
The two Pokémon were sent out, allowing the two to face each other! What some didn't expect was for Rowlet to be awake as the Grass-Flying Type gave a determined hoot before he glared to where Pichu stood.
"Rowlet's actually awake? That's kind of amazing!" Mallow pointed out, with Rotom buzzing in.
"It was even awake for when Ash battled Kahuna Hala, too!" Rotom buzzed, causing the others to look at the Rotom Pokédex in surprise.
Hau: Pichu VS Ash: Rowlet
"Let's do it, Rowlet! Use Tackle!" Ash called out. The Grass Quill Pokémon charged with his talons ready to strike at Pichu, forcing the Kahuna's grandson to counter back.
"Dodge it, Pichu! Then, use Shock Wave!" Hau called out, causing the little Electric Type to dodge and send an electricity wave to shock Rowlet! The move made a hit, causing the Grass-Flying Type to hoot in pain, much to Ash's surprise.
"Ah! Rowlet!" Ash gasped, causing the other classmates to watch in surprise.
"That was a direct hit!" Rotom buzzed, pointing out on how damage it caused just now, as Hau continued to strike.
"One more time! Pichu, use Shock Wave!" Hau called out. Pichu wasted no time sending an electricity wave to shock Rowlet once more, only for the Kanto Trainer to counter back this time.
"Not this time! Rowlet, use Leafage!" Ash shouted out. Recovering in the air, Rowlet let out a battle cry before he spun, causing glowing leaves to intercept the wave! The two moves collided with one another and exploded, as Hau tried to see through it.
"Whoa! That was intense! Now, Pichu! Try to find Rowlet and... Huh?" Hau started to say until he saw that in front of his Electric Type was... no one! Rowlet was nowhere to be seen, causing the Kahuna's grandson to be confused.
"Wait... Where did Rowlet go!?" Hau exclaimed, causing the Kanto Trainer to grin as he called out to his Grass Quill Pokémon.
"Hey, Rowlet! Hau's calling for you! Use Leafage one more time!" Ash shouted out.
The Kahuna's grandson widened his eyes as he watched Pichu get struck by another Leafage attack, causing him to look behind him and see Rowlet flying confidently in the air, much to his surprise.
"Whoa, what the... How did Rowlet get all the way behind me!?" Hau exclaimed, as Kaito knew the reason. He had seen something similar to this back when he and Ash had to fight against Totem Gumshoos and its comrades.
"Of course... Rowlet has the ability to sneak behind an opponent so that the opponent can't see him..." Kaito pointed out, as Ash continued with his assault this time!
"Now, Rowlet! Use Tackle!" Ash called out. The Grass Quill Pokémon slammed into Pichu, knocking him away with his talons! Hau watched in surprise as his little Electric Type friend tumbled back before it weakly glared at Rowlet.
"Come on, Pichu! Stay strong! Use Thunder Shock!" Hau shouted out. Electricity aimed to shock the Grass Quill Pokémon, only for the Kanto Trainer to counter again!
"Quick, Rowlet! Dodge, then use Peck!" Ash called out. The Grass-Flying Type managed to barely dodge the attack as he flew down to strike the little Electric Type away! The Flying Type move wasn't too powerful, but it was strong enough to knock Pichu back.
As Pichu skidded on the ground, the damages he had taken from Rowlet's attacks were too much for the little Electric Type to take as he struggled to get back up, only to faint in the last moment, causing Hau to gasp in shock.
"Ah! Pichu!" Hau exclaimed as he picked up his defeated Electric Type.
"Pichu is unable to battle! So the winner of this match is Ash!" Hala declared, gesturing the Kanto Trainer as the winner for the first match of the second round.
Winner: Ash
"Alright!"
"Ro! Ro!"
"Pikachu!"
The Kanto Trainer and his two Pokémon celebrated for their win together as Hau sighed, before a small grin rose up to his face.
"You did great, Pichu. Thanks for all your help." Hau said gratefully before he returned the defeated Electric Type back to his Pokéball as he sighed, feeling a bit upset and frustrated for his loss.
"Aw... And I wanted to be the one to win the whole thing..." Hau grumbled with a pout before he and Ash were called down to leave the battling platform.
"Too bad for Hau... He was doing pretty well until Ash found a way to counter his moves..." Kaito thought with a sigh.
His thoughts were interrupted when he and the others watched the second battle happening with Rotom taking pictures and videos of the battle that was going! In the end, the Trainer named Ren managed to defeat Taka, allowing him to head for the semi-finals.
Camilla and Kiawe's match was up as they were called to the battling platform, with Kahuna Hala calling the start of the match.
"Let the battle begin!" Hala called out, allowing both sides to send their Pokémon out.
"Cutiefly, it's your turn to shine!"
"Turtonator, let's go!"
The two Pokémon faced each other, with the battle starting to begin with Camilla making the first move.
Camilla: Cutiefly VS Kiawe: Turtonator
"Let's start things off! Cutiefly, use Silver Wind!" Camilla called out, allowing the Bee Fly Pokémon to send sharp wind to try and knock Turtonator down, only for the Fire-Dragon Type to resist as Kiawe smirked at the move.
"A Bug Type move like Silver Wind won't be able to take down a Fire Type like Turtonator! You know that, Camilla! Now, Turtonator! Use Flamethrower!" Kiawe called out. Turtonator resisted Silver Wind before he shot flames at the Bee Fly Pokémon!
"Deflect it with Psychic!" Camilla called out, allowing Cutiefly to control the flames with her eyes glowing! Trapped in psychic powers, the flames were forced to turn back and hit Turtonator, catching the Fire Type user by surprise.
"No way!" Kiawe gasped as Rotom buzzed, noticing how well the Fire Type move was countered.
"Unbelievable! Cutiefly used Psychic to send Flamethrower back! I never knew a Bug and Fairy Type Pokémon would be able to do something like that!" Rotom buzzed in amazement.
"Camilla sure is strong... Even Flamethrower seems like it won't work for Kiawe that easily." Lana pointed out as the others watched carefully.
"Argh... In that case, Attack Plan B! Turtonator! Use Dragon Tail!" Kiawe called out, causing Turtonator to spin and aim to slam Cutiefly away!
"Use Fairy Wind to counter!" Camilla shouted back, allowing the Bee Fly Pokémon to stop the powerless Dragon Type attack from reaching her with the Fairy Type attack! The move failed to hit Cutiefly, much to Kiawe and his Fire-Dragon Type's surprise.
"What...!?" Kiawe gaped as Camilla continued with her attacks.
"Let's try this one more time! Use Psychic!" Camilla exclaimed, causing Cutiefly to slam Turtonator up and down several times, inflicting multiple damage onto the Fire-Dragon Type!
"This is bad! Turtonator, try to stop yourself! Use Dragon Tail!" Kiawe shouted out. His voice managed to catch Turtonator out of his daze before he lunged his tail onto the ground, preventing himself from being thrown up and down into the air!
"Huh...?" Camilla watched, bewildered by the sudden tactic as the Fire Type user began to counter with his move!
"Now, use Flamethrower!" Kiawe exclaimed, allowing Turtonator to blast the Bee Fly Pokémon away with a super effective attack! Cutiefly screeched in pain as she was sent flying into the air, much to Camilla's surprise as she watched her Pokémon get blasted.
"Cutiefly, no! Stay strong!" Camilla exclaimed, causing the Bee Fly Pokémon to recover before she flew back to face the Blast Turtle Pokémon once more.
"It withstood the Flamethrower... I've gotta admit, that's a strong Cutiefly for sure..." Kiawe breathed out, with Turtonator grunting out his agreement.
"But that doesn't mean we're going to lose! Turtonator, let's wrap this up with a Z-Move!" Kiawe called out as he revealed his Z-Ring with the Firium-Z. The Blast Turtle Pokémon nodded as they were ready to perform the poses needed.
Camilla narrowed her eyes before she turned to her Bee Fly Pokémon for her assistance. Camilla revealed something similar to what Kiawe, Ash, and Kaito had on their wrists as she revealed...
"It's a Z-Ring!" Prof. Kukui pointed out in surprise.
"Does that mean Camilla can perform Z-Moves, too!?" Mallow exclaimed, with Kaito pointing it out.
"Looks like it..." Kaito grunted as Kiawe began to perform his poses with Turtonator first.
"In that case, there's no need to go easy anymore! Let's do it, Turtonator!" Kiawe exclaimed, with the Blast Turtle Pokémon crying out his agreement.
"The zenith! All my might! Of body! And spirit! Become a raging fire and burn! Inferno Overdrive!" Kiawe chanted as Turtonator blasted the powerful Fire Type Z-Move attack for it to hit Cutiefly, which it did!
Everyone gasped in surprise as most of them were coming to the belief that Kiawe has won. But some wanted to believe that Cutiefly could still fight, even with the damage she had taken from the Fire Type Z-Move.
But as the smoke and dust were clearing from the Z-Move Turtonator had performed, everyone had witnessed a very big surprise. In the smoke, something began to glow brightly, causing everyone to cover their eyes as they couldn't see what it was.
"W-What's going on?" Hau asked, as Prof. Kukui frowned for a moment. That is, until he recognized the light.
"Cutiefly... Cutiefly's evolving!" Prof. Kukui called out, much to the students' surprise.
"It's evolving now!? At a time like this!?" Sophocles exclaimed in disbelief.
Everyone watched closely to see the smoke disappearing, along with the dust. As it was all gone, the light was already starting to die down, revealing a different Pokémon that looked related to the Bee Fly Pokémon!
This Pokémon's size was similar with Cutiefly's size, but different. Around its neck is a brown scarf with a needle-like projection on the front. Two wings nearly as large as its body sprout from its back. The wings are clear with three brown loop designs near the base. Its four thin limbs have bulbous hands or feet.
"Cutiefly... You... You evolved into a Ribombee!" Camilla exclaimed, her eyes shining in both surprise and joy as a soft smile rose up on her face. As for how the Z-Move didn't seem to damage Ribombee too much...
There was some sort of screen was protecting the evolved Bee Fly Pokémon that prevented her from taking too much damage from the strong Fire Type attack.
"That's... Light Screen! That move can halve the damage given from a Pokémon's special attack! That must be how Ribombee was able to survive the Z-Move that Kiawe and Turtonator sent together!" Lillie pointed out in amazement.
"And that means the battle isn't over yet!" Ash pointed out, as Rotom quickly scanned Ribombee by taking a picture as he explained the data of her.
"You can leave the information to me! Ribombee, the Bee Fly Pokémon. A Bug and Fairy Type. It rolls up pollen into puffs. It makes many different varieties, some used as food and others used in battle." Rotom buzzed with the explanation.
Kiawe could only frown, not just in frustration, but he too was amazed for the evolution and the new move Ribombee had gone through just now.
"So Cutiefly evolved into Ribombee... Not only that, it was even able to learn Light Screen to prevent itself from being defeated from our Z-Move... Wow..." Kiawe breathed out as Camilla got ready.
"Let's try this again! Ribombee, let's show them our Z-Move since they've shown theirs!" Camilla called out as she began to pose with her new Bee Fly Pokémon. Ribombee followed as the two synchronized their feelings together to make themselves as one.
First, the two created a heart with their hands or paws, before making a fairy-like wing stance together!
"Flying freely into the air and sparkling hope... Let's show them what our true bond is like! Here we go! Twinkle Tackle!" Camilla called out as Ribombee was given the Z-Power! Crying out softly but loud enough for a battle cry, Ribombee charged towards the Blast Turtle Pokémon.
The Fire-Dragon Type widened his eyes as the Bee Fly Pokémon suddenly got in front of him, before she danced around the Blast Turtle Pokémon. Then, as if she was given some sort of bright power, she bumped into Turtonator!
That small bump sent the Fire-Dragon Type high into the air, much to Kiawe's dismay as Turtonator crashed onto the ground that was out of the battling platform. Kahuna Hala ran over to check on Turtonator's condition, until he saw how stunned the Blast Turtle Pokémon was.
"Turtonator is unable to battle! So the winner of this match goes to Camilla!" Hala announced, causing the crowd to cheer for the "Queen of the Wave" and Ribombee for their astounding finish in their victory.
Winner: Camilla
The "Queen of the Waves" and Ribombee embraced each other happily for their second win at the tournament while Kiawe comforted the Blast Turtle Pokémon for their loss.
"We did it, Ribombee! We're at the semi-finals now!" Camilla said happily while Ribombee gave a happy coo in response.
"Bom!" Ribombee cooed as Kiawe rubbed Turtonator's head with a soft smile.
"You did your best, Turtonator. We just underestimated their strength and bond with each other..." Kiawe said, earning a sad cry from the Blast Turtle Pokémon.
Once the third match was complete, it was off to the fourth and final match, which was Sophocles going against Kaito. The boys looked like they were ready to go as Sophocles had Togedemaru out while Kaito had Buizel out.
"You can do it, Sophocles! That goes for you too, Kaito!" Lana cheered, with Popplio cheering for her two friends. Bounsweet, Pikachu, Rockruff, Pichu, and Eevee all cheered for their human friends and Pokémon friends too as Sophocles smirked.
"I knew Kai was gonna bring out Buizel! Now if I could just see what kinds of attacks and strategies both Kai and Buizel pull off, it will definitely be able to help both me and Togedemaru win this round and head for the semi-finals!" Sophocles thought confidently.
"Of course Sophocles would use Togedemaru. Togedemaru is a tough opponent that can use its spikes on its back to hurt an opponent for when it tries to protect itself. I'll have to try and be careful of what attacks I use if I want to win and move on." Kaito thought carefully.
"Let the battle begin!" Hala called out, allowing both boys to call out their attacks.
Sophocles: Togedemaru VS Kaito: Buizel
"All right! Let's do this, Togedemaru! Start things off with Zing Zap!" Sophocles called out.
"Buizel, let's try and start this carefully! Use Aqua Jet to evade any attacks!" Kaito shouted out.
The Roly-Poly Pokémon made the first move by surrounding herself with electricity before she rolled to strike at Buizel, only for the Sea Weasel Pokémon to dodge with an Aqua Jet attack, a move that somehow outpaced Zing Zap.
"Whoa!?" Sophocles exclaimed as Togedemaru watched in surprise to see her Water Type friend moving fast in the air.
"If you can't match our speed, then this won't take that long, Sophocles! Now! Use Agility! Follow it up with another Aqua Jet, back to back!" Kaito shouted, causing Buizel to raise his speed with the Psychic Type move before he surrounded himself with water once again.
Using the increased speed he gained, the Sea Weasel Pokémon bashed into Togedemaru multiple times! The Roly-Poly Pokémon struggled to follow her friend, due to the speed he gained from using Agility!
"Ah! No! Snap out of it, Togedemaru!" Sophocles panicked as he watched Togedemaru wobble around, dizzy from all the speed attacks she was taking!
"One more time, Buizel! Aqua Jet!" Kaito shouted out, pointing to where Togedemaru was still in daze. Wasting no time, the Sea Weasel Pokémon bashed into Togedemaru once more, much to Sophocles' dismay!
"No! Togedemaru!" Sophocles gasped as he watched the Roly-Poly Pokémon roll over to him in defeat. Noticing the unconscious expression Togedemaru was giving off, the Fighting Type user declared the match to be over.
"Togedemaru is unable to battle! So the winner of this match is Kaito!" Hala declared, gesturing to Kaito and Buizel as the winners of the match.
Winner: Kaito
"Nice work, Bui! We're off to the semi-finals now!" Kaito exclaimed with a small grin as he and the Sea Weasel Pokémon gave each other a double high-five for their second victory in the competition.
"Bui bui!" Buizel exclaimed as he gave his human brother a grin back.
As for Sophocles, he held the now awakened Roly-Poly Pokémon into his arms, as Togedemaru looked at him a bit weakly and in confusion.
"I'm sorry, Togedemaru... It's my fault for underestimating Kai and Buizel too much because I thought the type advantage would help us win, along with the other strategies that I was hoping to use..." Sophocles spoke apologetically.
He looked to see Kaito cheering with Buizel for their victory as the Electric kid scratched his cheek.
"Looks like we'll have to revise our strategies and train a little bit more if we want to be a match against our friends." Sophocles suggested, causing Togedemaru to respond back with a sad reply.
"Togedemaru..." Togedemaru said sadly as she was carried out of the battling platform with Sophocles holding her.
Soon, with the second round battles finished, Hala caught everyone's attention as he cleared his throat, a smile rising up on his face.
"This marks the end of the second round battles! I am pleased to show you all on what the semi-final battles will be like! Instead of a 1 on 1 battle like the first two rounds, both the semi-finals and the finals will consist of 2 on 2 battles!"
"I hope that whoever made it this far into the competition, will fight hard as they can with their Pokémon by their side! I expect the top four Trainers to bring out the best of their Pokémon like they have in the previous rounds!" Hala explained, as everyone listened intently.
Once the Melemele Kahuna spoke his words, he revealed the two pairing matches that were going to happen in the semi-finals.
1. Ash VS Ren
2. Camilla VS Kaito
Kaito blinked at this as he turned to see Camilla, who looked as surprised as he was. Then, the "Queen of the Waves" glanced at the Alola boy, as they both knew that their battle would be intense unlike the last time they fought back at Akala Island.
Ash on the other hand, was more excited to keep the battles going on and hope to win the entire thing. The same went for Pikachu and Buizel, as the two starters knew they would have to fight hard to make their human friends proud and satisfied.
To be continued...
Kaito's Team:
Buizel (M): (Ice Beam, Agility, Rain Dance, Aqua Jet)
Rockruff (M): (Crunch, Sand Attack, Rock Slide, Howl)
Next chapters:
Chapter 24: The Tournament Gets Big! Go, Z-Move!
Chapter 25: The Pancake Race Preparation
Chapter 26: The Pancake Race is a Blast!
Chapter 27: Getting to Know You, Vulpix!
Chapter 28: The Young Fire Burns in the Heart!
Next chapter preview:
Camilla: I'll admit that I didn't expect for the both of us to be battling like this. But this is when your winning streak will end.
Kaito: Some attitude that is... You're nothing like the girl that I met for the first time, who usually is reserved...
Ash: Oh man, oh man... So I'm going to battle the winner of this match? Come on, Kai! You can do it too, Camilla!
Kiawe: Whose side are you on, anyway? They battled against each other once, right? This might be something we need to see...
Kaito: That's weird... Her moves look okay, but with the expression she's giving off, it's like I'm battling a different person.
Camilla: Don't underestimate me just because we're "similar", Kaito! Don't hold back! Because I definitely won't in this battle!
Events that occurred:
- Kaito, Hau, Ash, Kiawe, Sophocles, and Camilla all enter the Pokémon Festival Tournament
- Ash defeats Hau in the second round, qualifying for the semi-finals
- Camilla is revealed to have a Grass, Bug, and Fairy Type Z-Crystals
- Camilla's Cutiefly evolves into a Ribombee, while learning how to use Light Screen
- Camilla defeats Kiawe in the second round, qualifying for the semi-finals
- Kaito defeats Sophocles in the second round, qualifying for the semi-finals