This chapter was gonna be a problem for me, but I got some help from someone who's actually really helped me out with this story. I can't thank him enough. And with that, on with the chapter. Enjoy!
Chapter 16-Electrifying Revelation
As usual, Collin made his way along Route 10 battling trainers and Pokemon. As the days went on, it seemed that everything was losing it's luster. The battles were getting easier now and things felt no different that being in Unova or Sinnoh. He needed a break but his own heart and mind knew he'd never relax until he finished the Island Challenge. Not to mention his on going theory that Aether isn't exactly innocent wasn't helping. His thought were interrupted by the sound of pounding techo. Or was it rap? Collin couldn't tell anymore as he saw Kukui standing by the bus stop and two Team Skull grunts beside him.
"You may have beaten us, but we ain't moving a muscle!" said the male grunt.
"Yeah! We'll take this bus stop if you don't beat it Prof!" said the female grunt.
"Arceus almighty will you just leave! You've been beaten fair and square so just go and let people see the time the bus is at!" said Kukui who was just about to loose it, something Collin didn't want to see so he butted into the group.
"Oi, the Professor said something. Now I suggest you two beat it before I do even worse!" warned Collin, showing the grin he knew scared the shit out of them, which of course it did.
"Y-Y-Y-Yes Bo-sir! We'll g-g-go now!" said the male grunt, running away.
"HEY DON'T LEAVE ME HANGING AGAIN!" shouted the female grunt, running after him. Collin couldn't help but chuckle. If there was one thing he could take out of all of this, is that the Team Skull grunts were absolutely useless. Signing, he turned to Kukui and noticed he was back to his cheery self.
"Thanks Collin. How do you deal with them so well?" he asked.
"Don't know to be honest." said Collin. "I just give empty threats and grin at them. That seems to do the job. Still, wouldn't want to worry about them, got other things on my mind."
"Like what?" Collin wasn't sure if he should tell him how he felt about the Trials and his theory about Aether, but he needed to know at least one thing. While Kukui checked the time for the next bus, Collin made his mind up. "So, what's on your mind?"
"Well one thing has been bothering me." he said. "Do you know Faba of the Aether Foundation?" Kukui's face went back to how he looked facing the Team Skull grunts and sighed.
"That creep? Bastard talks down to my wife every time he comes over to check her research. Caught him calling her a bitch the other day and I nearly threw him out the window. All because she didn't have his name right on some report." he said. It was like he was steaming, never heard him swear before too. His comment alone made him hate Faba more.
"I expected as much. His underling was given a thrashing just because she didn't say his full title when she met me and Hau. Next time I see him, I swear he better keep his mouth shut. Who knows how many people he's been after in there." said Collin, thinking about his theory again.
"Get in line." said Kukui under his breath. Sounds like Faba made a lot of enemies. However the two males were taken away by their hate of Faba as they noticed Lillie bounding down the road.
"HEY! I'M NOT LATE AM I?! I'M SO SORRY I GOT CAUGHT UP IN THE BOOK AND-"
"Lillie, it's fine. The bus is due in five minutes. You're just in time." said Kukui, interrupting her. Collin smiled as Lillie patted herself down due to the running she was doing.
"Phew. Thought I was late. But yeah about the book. It was an interesting read but still nothing about Nebby. I'm beginning to loose hope now." she said with sadness in her voice.
"Don't worry, I'm sure we'll find something." said Collin, reassuring her. This seemed to cheer her up as a small smile appeared on her face.
"I hope you're right." she said. All three were standing, chatting about other topics just as the bus for Hokulani arrived. They boarded the bus and it set up back up the mount.
When they got off the bus on top of Mount Hokulani, the first thing that met Collin and Lillie was how cold it was compared to how it was down the bottom. It was refreshing at first, but the cold really started to get to him.
"Kukui how the hell are you able to stand in this with no shirt?!" asked Collin.
"Years of training. Come over here you two, I have to show you something." They followed his orders and stood next to him by some railing. He was looking off into the distance, where an even higher mountain stood with what looked like a building on it.
"Professor, what's that building on the mountain?" asked Lillie.
"Glad you asked. That is Mount Lanakila, the tallest point in Alola. I felt like something was missing from it thought. After years of waiting, Mount Lanakila will be the home of Alola's Pokemon League! We are just getting the finishing touches done and it should be ready by next week." said Kukui.
"Wow! That's amazing Professor. It's great that Alola finally has a League. But how would challengers get into it?" asked Lillie.
"We've set it up so that if you have completed the Island Challenge, either recently or in the past, you have a shot of taking on the League." Collin stared at the mountain with a blank expression, he didn't know what to think. "So you up for it Collin?" asked Kukui. He didn't answer. Instead, he began to walk away from Lillie and Kukui, mumbling something.
"Collin, what's wrong?" asked Lillie walking up to him. He stopped in his tracks and sighed.
"I'm not feeling the Island Challenge anymore." he said. Kukui's face looked like he was shot in the heart.
"Why Collin? How did that happen? I mean you looked like you were enjoying it." said Kukui.
"I know but it's just...I have so much to think about. I came here to relax and the next thing I know I'm flung into another journey. Everything is getting similar now." he said. "And I know what you're thinking. "Why don't you just stop? You don't have to continue." Trust me I know, but I'd feel so stupid to do that. Everything would keep nagging me and I wouldn't be able to relax at all. Now that I know there will be a League, that's not going to help." Collin was out of breath from his rant and sat on the railing to catch his breath. Kukui came to his side and so did Lillie.
"Sorry cousin." said Kukui. "I'm sorry we took you away from your relaxation. I mean you even said to me first day about Mary passing away and we threw this at you. Arceus I feel horrible now."
"No. It's not your fault. It's a me thing. I just want to get this over with and with Aether on the mind I feel so tired." he confessed.
"What happened at Aether?" asked Kukui. Lillie seemed to look worried about something. Collin picked that up and if his theory was correct, it wouldn't be good for Lillie. Sighing, he took the bullet and let it out.
"I think Aether is up to something. Lusamine more than anything. Remember when Hau said we encountered an Ultra Beast?"
"Yeah." said Kukui.
"Well, after it left, Lusamine was acting strange. She mumbled something about wanting to have it or something. She had this weird grin on her face. Later on, Hau mentioned you Lillie and the same weird grin was on her face." he said, looking at Lillie. She wasn't looking at Collin, she looked scared...terrified even. "Look Lillie, I know you have something to do with Aether. I won't pry, but I need to get this off my mind." Lillie looked at Kukui, who at first seemed oblivious to what was going on, until he gave a nod to Lillie in a way she understood what it meant. She took a deep breath and laid it all out.
"My full name is Lillie Aether." she said. Collin's mind clicked instantly.
"I knew it. You're the daughter of Lusamine right?" Lillie nodded. A weight would have been lifted of his shoulders, until he realized that Lusamine knows he's with Lillie. "Lillie, tell me everything. Please."
"Yes. When I turned ten, I lost my father in an experiment with Ultra Wormholes. My mother was torn apart by it and tried to get him back. Her mind was twisted as time went on, to the point she made me wear these clothes every day." she said pointing at her white dress. Now that she mentioned it, they did look like the Ultra Beast he saw in Aether Paradise. "One day, she was testing on a Pokemon. That was Nebby...Cosmog I mean. I took pity on him and I ran away from Aether three months back. When Professor Burnet found me, I explained everything to her and Kukui. They are the only people that know, aside from you. Please Collin, don't tell anyone. If mother finds out where I am, Nebby could die and I don't even want to think what would happen to me." she begged, almost on the verge of tears. Wasting no time, Collin wrapped his arms around Lillie and hugged her as tight as he could.
"There is no way in hell am I letting them get to you. I will not tell anyone. I swear on my mother's grave I will not tell anyone." he whispered. Lillie hugged him even tighter, letting the tears flow down. It felt nice, to finally tell the truth to someone she cared about. Still holding each other, they ended the hug and she gave him a warm smile. "You knew all along, huh Kukui?"
"Wasn't my place to tell. I kept her safe as long as I could. I hope you understand." he said.
"Of course I do. I still have one question. Is all of Aether corrupt?" Lillie understood what he meant and spoke.
"Not really. Wicke was the one who helped me escape with Nebby, along with few other grunts. Most of them are just following orders so I wouldn't call them corrupt. But there are a few that are corrupt and they work down in R&D." she said.
"Well that's refreshing. Still, we can't trust any Aether member...aside from Wicke. I'll keep you safe so stay with me alright?" he said.
"Of course." said Lillie, smiling. "Thank you so much. You don't have to do this you know?"
"I want to do it and nothing you say will stop me." he said, jokingly but he meant every word. The two enjoyed the small silent moment together, while Kukui went off into the building in front of them, giving them the space they needed.
After everything that was said and done, Collin and Lillie decided to make their way towards the building that Kukui entered. Just as they reached the door, Kukui came out along with another tall man with glasses.
"Enjoy the little break you two?" asked Kukui.
"Yeah. I needed to let that all out." said Collin.
"Good. Collin, I'd like you to meet an old friend of mine and of your mom, Molayne." said Kukui, introducing him to Collin.
"Nice to meet you Molayne." said Collin, shaking his hand.
"Pleasure. When Kukui told me about you, he looked fired up. Never seen him this fired up, unless it's in the ring. Isn't that right "Royal"?" said Molayne. Already, Collin liked him and Lillie couldn't help but giggle.
"That's PROFESSOR, Molayne." said Kukui, aggressively.
"Whatever you say, "Masked Royal"." he said, causing Kukui to basically blow steam out of his nose. It was entertaining to say the least. "Anyway, he also told me about her passing. I'm sorry. She was a great woman when she was here, first one to beat the Island Challenge out of the four of us." he said.
"Four?" asked Collin.
"We...don't talk to him anymore." said Kukui. Great, more mysteries. Can I catch a fucking break? thought Collin.
"Doesn't matter. I assume you are here for the Trail?" asked Molayne.
"Yeah, you the Captain?"
"Nope, that's my little cousin Sophocles. He's just getting the Trial ready, it's his first time doing it on his own." he said.
"Oh, he must be young." said Lillie.
"Yeah, he's fourteen now. But I'm sure he'll do fine. You can head into the Trial now if you want, but you'll have to wait outside." he said, looking at Lillie.
"That's okay. Good luck Collin, I'm rooting for you!" she said.
"Same from me Collin. Listen I'm going to head back to Malie City. Do you mind if you look after Lillie, Molyane?" asked Kukui.
"Not a problem. I'll see you later Prof!" said Molyane as Kukui got onto the bus and it drove down the mountain. Now, shall we enter the Observatory?" Collin nodded and entered. He was greeted by the sight of researchers and scientist fiddling at computers and other technology. He saw the totems that symbolize the start of the trial but they were made of steel, not wood. Collin found it amusing and entered the room. In the room was a short teen typing away at a computer. He stopped when he saw Collin his the reflection of the screen and turned to meet him.
"So...you're my next challenger? Right?" he said. He seemed nervous but determined. "My name is Sophocles, welcome to the Electric Trial."
"Thanks Sophocles. So what do I do?" asked Collin.
"Well, you know how a Totem Pokemon comes out after proving strength right? Well I decided to come up with a way so the Totem Pokemon comes to us. Using sound waves that only Pokemon can hear, we can cause the Totem Pokemon to come towards us. However...this is my first time using it so there might be a few problems. You are alright with that aren't you?" he asked.
"Sure, whatever makes the Trial go. No pressure alright?" said Collin, reassuring Sophocles.
"Okay...your Trial starts now." he said, turning to power on some machine. "Okay, when I press this button, the Totem Pokemon should come to us. Ready...and...go!" he said and the machine sent out a sound that Collin couldn't hear, but knew was working.
"So now we wait?" asked Collin.
"Yep. The Totem Pokemon should be here any mo-" Suddenly, the power went out. "NO! DID I BLOW A FUSE?! DID I GIVE TO MUCH POWER?! OH NO I MESSED EVERYTHING UP!" he shouted in a panic.
"Calm down, calm down! Take deep breaths." Sophocles followed Collin's instructions carefully. "Okay, now is there a way you can bring the power back?"
"There is...but they need answers to three questions...hey...why not have that as apart of the Trial?! Oh yes! Okay you up for it?" asked Sophocles.
"Sure. What are the questions?" asked Collin. They spent the next few minutes working their way on the questions. Of course, they were easy enough for Collin and he passed with flying colours. With in seconds, the power was back on and everything was running again.
"YES! Okay, the signal is going out again. The Totem Pokemon should be here any second now." said Sophocles. They waited for the Totem Pokemon, as Collin hear the flapping of wings. They were getting closer and closer until suddenly, something flew in from the hole of the ceiling. "VIKAVOLT IS HERE! GET READY!" shouted Sophocles. Collin got his Pokemon ready, prepared for the fight ahead.
"Rotom, what Pokemon am I dealing with?" asked Collin. Rotom came out of his bag and got the information.
"Vikavolt. The Stag Beetle Pokemon. Bug Electric. It zips around, on sharp lookout for an opening. It concentrates electrical energy within its large jaws and uses it to zap its enemies. Thiz should be no problemz for you masterz!" said Rotom, going back into the bag.
"No problem at all. GO SALANDIT!" Out came Salandit and was ready to battle. "Let's make this quick! Use Flame Charge!" he shouted. The flames surrounded Salandit and it crash right into Vikavolt, causing major damage. The Totem Pokemon let out a cry and another Pokemon appeared beside it. "Rotom, check please." Rotom came out of the bag once again and began a scan.
"Charjabug. The Battery Pokemon. Bug Electric. Its body is capable of storing electricity. On camping trips, people are grateful to have one around. It seemz that it'z used to powerz up Vikavolt'z movez."
"Great. Let's get rid of it first. Salandit, use Flame Burst!" The flames shot out of the mouth of Salandit, missing Vikavolt, but managing to hit Charjabug. "Well that's one problem gone." Collin wasn't paying attention as Salandit was hit by an electric move. "DAMN! You okay Salandit?!" shouted Collin. Salandit gave a hiss, showing that she was okay. "Alright good girl. You ready?" Salandit nodded. "Alright. UNLEASH Z-MOVE!" shouted Collin, turning the Firium Z-Crystal. He preformed the dance and powered up Salandit. "NOW, USE INFERNO OVERDRIVE!" The battlefield was surrounded by a massive ball of flame hurtling towards the Totem Pokemon. It crashed into Vikavolt and by the time the smoke cleared, it was out cold. "YES! Well done Salandit!" shouted Collin.
"Hiss!" cried Salandit. A white glow surrounded Salandit and she grew in size with a slim figure. When the glow died down, Salandit evolved! "Hiss!" she cried but it sounded more seductive compared to what it was before hand.
"Alright! You are a Salazzle now!" shouted Collin, patting her head. She gave him a lick with her tongue. "Okay you need a rest. Return." said Collin and Salazzle returned to her ball. Sophocles came up to Collin, looking nervous.
"So...how was it?" he asked.
"I thought it was interesting. You really should consider the questions as an actual part of the Trial. It would really test the knowledge of trainers. But overall, it was good." said Collin.
"Phew...I was so worried!" said Sophocles. "Anyway, here is you new Z-Crystal, Electrium Z." he said handing it over to Collin. Just before he preformed the dance, the door to the Trial opened. "BIG MO!" he shouted.
"SOFTY!" shouted Molayne. "How did you do?" he asked.
"The trainer said it was good. He even gave me suggestions to use in the future." said Sophocles. Molayne couldn't look even more happier.
"Thank you Collin, that's really boosted his confidence. Have you shown him the dance yet?" asked Molayne.
"I was about to. Here it goes!" shouted Sophocles and did the dance that Collin needed to do to activate the Z-Move. "...how was that?" Collin have a cap to show he was impressed. "Thank you."
"Here, as an award for being nice to Softy, take this Steelium Z." said Molayne, handing out the Z-Crystal.
"You sure?" asked Collin.
"Sure I'm sure. Also here's the dance." Molayne preformed the dance and Collin locked it into his memory. "Also, that girl Lillie is waiting for you outside. You better get to her." he said.
"I will. Thanks for the Z-Crystal. And good luck Sophocles!" said Collin, exiting the building. When he got out, he was greeted with a hug from Lillie. "This gonna be a thing now?"
"Is that a problem?" she asked, smiling
"Not really, just checking." he said, smiling back. He held out his arm and show her his Z-Ring. "Got two Z-Crystals for the price of one. One more Trial on the Island right?"
"Yep. I think we should head to Malie City because the Professor dropped this." she said, holding out a mask. It was his Masked Royal mask. "I swear I don't know how people can't see it's him. We better return it to him."
"He's gonna flip when he finds out. Come on, let's not keep him waiting." They made their way to the bus and it drove down the mountain. Collin wasn't exactly over his feelings about the Trials. But now that he knows Aether isn't all sunshine, he knew he had to protect Lillie at all costs. He did swear on his mother's grave he would.
I hope you don't mind that I go a different direction with Lillie's reveal. I think it would make the story flow better. Anyway, reviews and comments of any nature are welcomed and as always, I'll see you in the next chapter. Cheerio!