Fourth stop Galar
Author's note with Scarlet Violet out and having beaten it I thhought now would be a good time to write the Galar chapter as a little farewell to if not my favorite Pokemon game at least my favorite to shiny hunt in. Not a big fan of overworld hunts and man do I love Max raid adventures for shiny hunting. No shinies here I just wanted to say something nice about the region because my narrative will be unkind to it. Hope you are excited I will not be mentioning the new region in this story it was not in the design document as it did not exist then and I want to keep this trim. Sincerely 4Coyote
Steven was on deck clad in his jacket his hands against the chilly handrail keeping the metal clear of condensation from the cold. The night air was frigid on this coast whether it was due to the sea currents, the wind or the lack of sun the amateur stone collector could not say. He could see the rail quite clearly due to the spinning light that had drawn the young man out to just look at the lighthouse. The S.S. Anne was docked just across from Hulberry port despite the aid of the lighthouse, the captain had opted to anchor for the night. Given the cold Steven was the only one on the deck that did not stop the young man from glancing over his shoulder hoping to see the silver hair of his newfound friend glinting in the yellow light from the shore. Steven did look up at the stars only a few were shining bright enough to pierce through the atmosphere full of thick smog. Galar was the most anticipated stop for the young tycoon, it was the only place on the tour he had not visited previously. For once he and Kahili would be on the same footing. Yawning Steven decided to retire his pensive mood lifting, the cold had helped settle his anticipation he could rest now.
Kahili could not sleep insomnia was not her enemy, her battle was against a beam of light concentrating through her porthole every couple minutes. It was like a flickering light bulb at twenty times the intensity. Kicking off the coverlet she creeps over to the miniscule window. Her thin fingers obstructing the light to a feeble, almost vain degree. Feeling more sympathetic for her nocturnal bat Pokemon Kahili peeks through the porthole.
Catching sight of a glint of silver hair she knows her friend had been out admiring the coastal vista… in the dark. Looking down at her expensive if simple Ariados silk night gown she knew catching up to him was impossible. Deciding that sleep would not come naturally, she went to the dresser to construct another report for her father. "Pokemon battling is highly encouraged on the vessel, the crew, passengers, even the stuffy head steward had been game. Perhaps this was why the ship enjoyed success in the past between the move tutor captain and the battle loving crew the stops were brief breaks from dinner parties and high seas pokemon bouts." She went into more detail going over the skill of her opponents. Her team was missing something some had been closer than she would have liked not that her father needed to know that.
Becoming bleary eyed she closes the laptop grabs an empty page from her notebook she had gleaned her topic from took a water out of her golf bag, carefully dampened the scrap of parchment and slap! Stuck it to the porthole with this makeshift shade in place she started towards bed. Changing her mind she wrote in the much dimmer light these words "make sure to include shades on the portholes Papa." Flopping onto her bed the girl welcomed sleep.
The next morning as the crew began to make port Kahili was in their way her pokemon flying around above her head as she enjoyed her meagre breakfast of oatmeal and fruit. Steven soon joined her as she knew he would, it was their routine after all. "Morning ." "Alola." Replies Kahili trying to match his radiance Steven and Kahili were apparently the only two morning people on the ship. Steven constantly surprised her with his diligence ever since he showed up riding his bike onto the ship and into her life. Even after this morning ritual had become part of her routine on the S. . Steven sips his coffee the only thing he had for breakfast. "What are you planning on doing today?" "Hmm nothing really, all the famous golf courses are really remote in the country here, I thought about checking out one of those exhibition tournaments they hold in Windon." "Otherwise not much planned." Nodding slowly Steven slips a pamphlet across to his friend. It was a Galarian travel pamphlet with a page carefully bookmarked, Steven took her oatmeal for a second as the pamphlet was unfolded. "The wild area huh sounds intriguing. Especially crazy strong and giant pokemon." Steven raised an eyebrow her delivery had been a little husky, awkwardly he looks at the oatmeal then at the bird pokemon overhead. "Glad to hear it I need someone to watch my back, and" She does not let him finish. "I'm in I assume the picture of the freestanding stone structure is our destination." "Got it in one, it is technically on the way to Wyndon we can take the Hammerlocke station there once we finish." Steven had not expected her to be so easy to convince but she was very dependable now that he thought about her in that light. "Good thing we are stopped here for a few days, we do need some supplies though a cooking pot two tents, " Some cute clothes that could withstand a sandstorm and extreme rain she thought to herself. "Be sure to get some sturdy clothes too. If last night is any indication, it will be cold and dreary. " With a glint in her eye she began the next phase in the conversation "Pull out that cutting edge devon tech and see where the most convenient shop is." Steven returned the oatmeal to Kahili and, did as directed pokenav in his hand, while he readied a retort, a little stone faced as he composed a sure-fire comeback he took too long. pokenav and "I do not want to freeze my cute little butt off while we trek through the wilderness. Kahili could just make a slight blush on his cheek, she was right he did steal the occasional glance back there . Steven decided to play it cool and ignore the awkwardness Unovans and Alohans could be so blunt, though this was the first time Kahili had acted that way.
Steven and Kahili were now in Hulberry the disembarking process going much smoother then it had in Driftveil, as the pair had been the first in line at the checkout process this time. Swiftly they made it to the tube station, to procure their individual tickets to Wedgehurst and then Hammerlocke. The marquee at the station caught Steven's eye, it read 'Wild Area News. " Pokedens are active in the dappled grove(?) "Kahili we should head into the basic Wild area instead you did want to see some dynamaxed pokemon right? We can backtrack and ride the subway up to Hammerlocke after investigating to save time." "Sounds like a plan though maybe we should go by foot, I do not want to spend our whole time here on public transportation. She seemed to be speaking in general against the idea to Steven he, could sympathize with that he loved forging his own path and so did Kahili. When they embark on the train it is with no tickets to Hammerlocke. They take a booth and sit across from each other on this packed train car. "Least favorite mode of public transport go!" "Flying" says the young man quickly. "really that one is my favorite relaxing and food while you wait plus first class." "I just hate flying on planes in general it's the opposite of relaxing! The public aspect does not bother me as much. As the feeling of flying. That explains the extended sea voyage trip, part of her wanted to laugh but Steven was being honest and looked genuinely uncomfortable. She brushed his hand on the table to give him a little reassurance. "Busses takes the crown for me it feels like stuffing forty people into an oversize golf kart and when you factor in the stops the golf kart is probably faster. She laughed Steven joined in, with his own quip" be careful saying that in Galar they love their double-deckers here. "
As they step off the train and into the station to a clamoring crowd with signs and banners Steven could read some of them most notably one that said, "let's have a champion time." Some were in slang and a little harder for the tourist turned linguist to parse. "We are about to meet a celebrity Kahli" "I saw the banner do you think he is as good as they say?" Galar cares for flash as much as it does substance, but to be champion as long as he has he must be talented." Before they finish the subject of their conversation walked in , followed by his partner Charizard. Some intrepid members of the crowd came in behind the most famous trainer and pokemon in the region. "Steven Stone in my backyard! His cap seemed to perch even higher on his head in surprise. Leon radiated warmth and charm he was genuinely excited. Welcome to Galar chum, with you here we are sure to have a champion time! Leon spins like a top his cape brushing Kahili as he struck his signature pose. Looking up the pride of Galar noticed Kahili, "hello this must be your sister. If are as good as your brother Raihan and I might have to take you on eventually. "Kahili laughs a deep chortle from her gut not a giggle. Waving his hands hurriedly Steven corrects the mistake. "No we are simply friends on a trip together, Kahili is a competent battler though. One of the best in Alola" "I would love to see it, if you think she is skilled she must be. The league is hosting an exhibition tournament in a few days and such a high-profile guest and his protégé would be great for ratings." Fishing into his cape he pulls out two lanyards with badges, ready for the taking. "Steven, you should take it but I don't know I only recently started battling again. " Steven could understand the trepidation he had put her in this position but she was talented despite her luck on the S.S. Anne. "Kahili almost knocked out my Metagross." Leon pushed the badges into Kahil's hands that was all the validation he needed. "There is no commitment till you two show at the tournament. I do have to get a move on." The professional trainer was soon on his appointed outgoing locomotive and gone to hopefully the correct destination. That's a shame, I was going to ask him about how they dynamax" Steven muses as they exit into Wedehurst proper.
They toured the quaint, cozy, little town before splitting up. Steven collected the travel gear while Kahili quickly procured a new outfit. Opting for a grey knit beret, a green striped shirt, orange skinny jeans ablue hoodie and white gloves. Before an hour was up the travel companions were back at Wedgehurst station leaving in the same manner Leon had.
This train was a lot more crowded most of the Leon fan club from earlier was aboard stuffing the vehicle to capacity, if not beyond it. The only open berth was a two seater bench they would have to share. They both promptly took the seat, the required closeness much less of an issue after the mornings spent together on the S.S. Anne. "Before we got off you were telling me about Goldenrod city and Johto how was it?" Kahili went on to detail her experience and what it had been like how she had felt. "Steven they had a guy who made special pokeball's just a town over I would have loved to see it. " "Well I did get some Ultraballs while we were stopped. Seemed like a good idea with how strong the pokemon are supposed to be. I got you ten and a Premier ball for you. Plus a machine by Macro Cosmos that can catch dynamax pokemon. Now she felt ready for this adventure, "Those giant pokemon better watch out because here we come!" There was a determined look in her eyes and Steven wholeheartedly agreed that they should beware him and Kahili, but mostly Kahili. And for her part Steven reminded her that she could do anything.
Spreading out before them is a blue lake it's banks covered in blue green grass a tree sprouting from a small island in the middle of the lake. Every trail ran around that speck of green on an the azure oasis. Pokemon roam small patches of grass surrounding various foot paths crisscrossing the wild area. The most curious feature of the landscape are a myriad of, small glowing pink vents. "Look at the biodiversity the sheer number of types is impressive!" Kahili considered his point. There were flying bug types, small normal looking rabbit pokemon, and an obvious fighting type. They move forward Steven is reading his Pokenav to, determine which direction they should go. Kahili quickly pulled him her way, like an angler reeling in a Magikarp. "Watch it!" He had almost tripped over a giant rut in the ground . Looking like there are some industrious ground types too." Shouldering her pack she nods indicating they should navigate then begin walking. "The quickest route is to our right, towards Hammerlocke the spot we are looking for is the North West corner. "So the farthest place on the map we could aim for?" She wondered and not for the last time why stone collecting was a great passion of his. That near fall had more to do with his anticipation for collecting then general navigation. Then a flash of light erupts off to their left. "Can we check it out Steven?" "It does not look like a big detour let's pick up the pace though." His voice did not betray the anxiousness he felt at losing time but, Kahili was still fascinated by the new and Steven did not want to disappoint her.
It was mainly up hill and the going was slow, as they passed the canyon wall leading to the Dappled Grove, the light bursting out of the pink geyser became more radiant. Steven could see pink highlights in Kahili's hair mixed in like tiny sprinkles. The effect did not last as she bent her head and her new beret concealed her scalp from view. " I think each of us should get a Pokemon out you do not want to get ambushed by that pokemon's evolved form." The nearby Stufful is blissfully unaware Kahili is assertively pointing at it. She pulls out a pokeball following her explanation. Steven takes note of the various fighting and grass types around including a large Vileplume. He selects a poke ball "Skarmory a little help here!" "Come on out Oricorio." "Hover overhead and keep any flying types off at bay Skarmory." Skar agrees his trusted Pokemon. Kahili puts on a falconry glove keeping Oricorio close to them to deal with ground threats. "Oricorio should get a boost from this heat and can handle anything that comes." They continue on the Alolan fairing slightly better than Steven despite her warm clothing. "Why is it so hot? It was freezing in Wedgehurst. Look across the lake it is a deluge over there each area must have different climate factors. Neither had seen anything like it they admire the view before finally reaching the bright light.
In front of the geyser is a man with orange hair and a little girl dressed like an Eevee. "Hey over here I have a live one." Bellows the man as he waves them over. "Yay now we can start!" says the little girl. "it's an Excadrill! Squeals the little one. "I am just trying to look after the kid I had just caught a Ninetales when I noticed her here. I am going to use Heatmore what are you bringing. "I assume you have an Eevee, sweetie." Kahili coaxes sweetly. "Sure do and at least mine does not have a type disadvantage." She stuck her tongue out at the man whose name is Phoebus. "Only one pokemon each will fit into the den, from what he says Claydol is my best option." "Oricorio has been raring to go so she can pitch in." "Cracking ,time to begin then." Rubbing his hands Phoebus leads the way into the den.
Ooouuurghhhh! The cry was deafening the ground shook from the sonic noise. This giant creature was the Excadrill covered in purple energy. I am going to use special based ground attacks use fire attacks every one." Cries Steven. It was an effort to hear as their ears were still ringing. "Helping hand Eevee". One cute cheer later Claydol uses Earthpower. Somehow the nebulous energy damages the behemoth. Heatmore use fire spin! Phoebus' ally spits three rings of fire around the opponent. Increasing in size to ensnare the mole pokemon. A large shield appears dissipating the tounges of flame. Oricorio cut through it with Revelation dance! enveloping herself in flames via dance the move was sent towards the dynamaxed pokemon. It counters with a giant metal claw that smites Claydol which valiantly weathers the blow. If anyone can dynamax now is the time!" Phoebus yells as he reapplies fire spin on the Excadrill. Helping hand, Fire Blast command the Galarians weaking the groundtype. Kahili and Steven repeat the same attacks following Steven's appear and the barrier shatters. "It's almost down." Kahili encourages then two moves come out simultaneously metal claw strikes the Heatmore. While a giant earth fissure the rock-type dynamax move assails the Eevee. It withstands via a focus sash. A sandstorm begins, growling again the wild Pokemon uses Rockslide Koing all but Claydoll. Reflect "Now we have a barrier thinks." Steven. "Anyone else finding it hard to stand ." "A little Phoebus, I picked a bad day to stop wearing cleats." Laughing Steven commences the fight, Claydol is now using Earthquake no longer worried about his allies. "Come on Steven!" CLAYDOLL. Filled with energy it unleashes a powerful attack finally weakening the giant. "It's still coming Claydol cannot take another hit." Wails the child. Familiar Earth power appears targeting the last pokemon it missed. Kahili smiled gleaning what had occurredit must have Levitate. Then the flames kick in weakening it further. With a full restore Oricorio reappears, Revelation Dance finishes off the behemoth. In a flash of light Kahili pulls out the machine which enlarged her Ultraball with a soft throw the golfer pitches it the full distance, it rocks untill, it catches. Kahili picks up the Ultraball.
"Stunning display you two that was a bit touch and go but we did it. I need to go back and heal my pokemon Cheerio." The child tagged along with him. Kahili replaces Oracorio on her falconer glove and they proceed to the watchtower ruins. The plan was to camp in the shadow of the ruined structure, then they saw the ghost types and went to the lake shore. "Here is a good spot none of the ghost types come this far." All the pokemon are out Steven begins to cook some curry. Kahili is coaxing her new acquisition out. As the evening drags on the Excadrill stayed with Steven's pokemon and the Skarmory preens by Toucanon. After they retire for the night Kahili wonders how the rest of the trip would go thankful Steven had been on their team.
The next day they aimed to cross the bridge and rest at the daycare by noon which meant an early morning. The soft orange light of dawn was breaking through a small layer of mist that had begun to settle over the dew sodden ground. Today a golf shirt and her hoody were her chosen wardrobe, with the last minute addition of her knit cap. Soon she was feeding both sets of pokemon using some curry mix from her supplies. Steven was brewing a pot of coffee on a similar set up the aroma, sharp and bitter cheered Kahili a little. Once again they were sharing their morning ritual of breakfast, "There is a sandstorm on our route today, otherwise the weather is clear except for a rain storm. It will be just like a trip through Hoen." "I felt at home earlier in that heatwave it's only fair you get a rainy evening." Aware of the ever-dwindling resource that is time, the adventurers packed up to go. " Fairy types have infested this area let's keep some help on hand. With a flash of light Aggron and Golbat were accompanying them for this sector. When they came across a rather aggressive Garbodor that marked a smattering of poison type creatures, the newly summoned partners dispatched it. After tiptoeing past a slumbering Snorlax the crew entered the sandstorm portion directly under the bridge to Hulberry. "A short fly over that bridge and we could be back on our home away from home. It has been nice to get off the boat." "I second that Kahili but, there is no more luxurious way to travel. " Something was nagging at him about that exchange Steven pondered it once the sandstorm made talking impossible. Meanwhile Kahili came up with how to cross the temporary desert they had to cross.
Steven wearing go-goggles was in the lead Kahili held hid hand. She was followed by Aggron to cover their backs. Skarmory was overhead running air control and Excadrill protected them fighting beside the pair Golbat using echolocation to lead the small troop. The whole area was swarming with Ryhorns which constantly charged the band. Iron head stopped attacks from the rear, and Drill Run was ever present beside the, duo. The sound of sudden footsteps was the only warning Steven had as they trudge forward. They had to succeed, no matter how hot it got. Normally Steven thought of the stone at the end but today he was thinking of something else. A gloved hand clasped in his.
She had to hold on and trust him, she realized he was the only one she did trust like this. No one else was as capable at exploring. She had never been in any situation like this hostile pokemon at every turn and a raging sandstorm. It was nice to have a partner to cooperate with. She kept an eye on Aggron and, clutched a canteen ready to give Steven water. They continued in this manner until they reach the second bridge clearing. Removing his goggles Steven licks his parched lips, tasting sand with a dry tounge. Kahili thrusts the canteen at him, "Now that was not so bad was it." She said with a smirk through the sand plastered on her face. They camp by the day care center giving Aggron a much-needed rest. For the last leg only two pokemon would suffice, Toucanon and Metagross.
"Why did you take the cruise Kahili? "I wanted to see the world."Dissasatified with her glib answer he pressed her a little. "Okay then how come you never have a plan for when we dock, it always seems like you tag along with me or come up with it moments before." "I just wanted to figure out why people would like this experience on the ship." For the ports I am just fickle." Steven knew Kahili fairly well now no one was accomplished as her and also extremely capricious. Maybe she just loved the sea.
It was a pleasant jaunt towards the final destination until the rain began. Between the hoodie and Steven's trusty jacket they could make headway. Up a steep inclined hill, much to the dismay of our heroes' burning calves. Only to be met with a swollen stream filled with raging Gyrados, "How are we going to cross that?" "Steven inquires worriedly none of these Gyrados are going to let us ride them." "I know what we can try, Toucannon engage that Mantine with Bulletseed! with five hits it was knocked out. "Steven,I did tell you that one of my trials was Mantine surfing based right?" Cachoon! and the Ultraball caught the water flying type. "No you told me one of the Kahuna's was a big Mantine surfer." "Correction I implied one of my trials was Mantine surfing."
"Your gonna need to hang on tight, Steven. Ooh not that tight," "Sorry muttered Steven from behind her relaxing his grip immensely. Still at a loss on where to stand, on the small manta pokemon. Then they were off it was a short trip unfortunately the only wakes were generated by the thrashing Gyrados. Threading through them Kahili jumps past each of the water serpents banking when the heads came their way. Steven kept his eyes closed a real shame he would have been really impressed if he had seen her in action. Up ahead was a Vaporean perched in front of the stone monolith structure. It did not bother them, so Steven inspected the rock structure collecting evolution stones. "These are in excellent condition not a flaw among them and decent size. Eat your heart out Fallow, I'd like to see you get up here! "Why was Steven so cute when he collected stones." Kahili thinks to herself bemused by his excitement. The following trip to Hammerlocke was uneventful and the city itself was impressive and memorable though nothing of note happens in it. After they board the train Kahili looks out to the scenery soon she hears a noise Steven is sleeping, and more importantly snoring. She takes a second to phone the nicest hotel in Wyndon, one of her father's operations Steven could use a goodnight's sleep and so could she.
On the final day in Galar it was tournament time after their ordeal yesterday Kahili felt confidant enough to enter the tournament now but there was one loose end to take care of her team could be better.
Steven had wondered why, the golfer had put him in the swankiest hotel he had ever been in it appeared to be to butter him up. "Do you still have those invitations, Steven it would be a shame to waste them." "Oh after all the trouble we had getting these free tickets because I am a recognizable name to boost sales." Steven had mixed feelings about gifts like this, he thought handouts he received based on his own reputation would be easier to swallow then ones meant to beguile his father. They were but, only marginally so the practice was still exploitative. You can use yours but I just am not sure I am comfortable competing. "No way you talked Leon into giving me one you do not get to back out now, Not when I get to fight you at your best. "Kahili, you could fight me at my best by asking, what is the real reason." There he goes again picking up in when I am not completely honest with him. "You got me, I am a little apprehensive about battling in front of a crowd. One friendly face in the VIP box and someone I know to ease into it with would go a long way. She was genuine now and he could not fault her logic he gave in. Kahili celebrated by punching the air, just as she did when she hit a hole-in-one. "Now one last thing I think my Excadrill would be more comfortable with you and your Skarmory has been roosting with my team how about a trade." The Pokemon would be a lot of help in his exploration it had been invaluable in the Wild area. Another excavation partner could not hurt and his Skarmory did seem more at home with the other birds. "All right seems fair to me we better head over there." Kahili grabs the passes.
At Wyndon stadium there is a small flurry of activity as the graphics guy is finalizing the bracket for that day. The following names were confirmed. Phoebus, Ryuki a rock star invited by an influential fan, Kabu, Opal, tentpoles of the event. And lastly Piers, and Allister, that left two unclaimed spots. "Oh no I have to confirm with the front desk I only have Leon invitees listed." The Galur league employee rushes towards the front desk from his basement office.
Kahili and Steven are finishing their paperwork as the flustered young man sprints to the front desk, trying to keep a hold on his forms for that night. "Oh good make sure to add Kahli as the Alola Island trial champion and Steven Stone as the Hoen Champion." The Graphics worker left ,mystified as to what logo to use for these two competitors. When the bracket did appear, their logos were Mount Lanakilia and the Hoen league symbol respectively. "Hmm it looks like fire for round one the other two could be anything Steven." "Yours looks like ghost, judging by the logo a fairy trainer and oh our friend from yesterday is also competing on my side the logo stumped me but that is his name. They compared notes a little longer then the front desk was leading Steven to his locker room, unsurprisingly the Champion was going first to guarantee an exciting start. "See you in the finals" Says Steven trying to encourage his friend, "You can count on it." She yelled trying to believe it.
This was nerve wracking the crowd was already chanting, horns sirens and bells all chimed in. Quiet caves and a small room had not prepared Steven for this raucous atmosphere. "Hanging out with the flamboyant Wallace and the impromptu crowds that geathered when he traveled had. He tried a Wallace like flourish at the crowd. A man with gray hair ran out full of energy in a flame themed outfit. "You are the Hoen champion you must be strong I too come from Hoen let me illuminate why this land has stoked my flaming passion for battle." Next, they return to the back field
Throwing pokemon out simultaneously. Ninetails and Armaldo take the field, Swords dance! Sunny day! This was not the best situation but, swords dance could still carry the day. "Rockslide now!" three rocks fall on the delicate kitsune creature. It was immediately knocked out. Arcanine was next can you adapt Kabu? Cuz here we come! Arcanine Willow Wisp much for swords dance. Rockslide appeared again it was another one hit KO, Torkoal uses protect. Staving off another one hit move then Solarbeam critical hit. Armaldo did great but it could not go on. Cradilly take it from here.
Kahili was assembling her team while Steven fought Kabu she was still deliberating when she saw Cradilly facing a Centiskorch. It was plainly over the grass type had three omni stat boosts on it and a doubly super effective move. Then the crowd went nuts she could see Kabu had recalled hs pokemon but that was his last teamember obviously he had surrendered. Then Centiskorch's pokeball grew and grew till the new gigantamax form was on the field. One special move later and Cradilly was down Steven was going all out now that two pokemon were down. Aggron came in and withstood another move and finished with Stonedge. She had not expected the competition to be that tough but, Steven had come through in spades Maybe it was the crowd pumping him up, Steven was polite enough to strive for the best show possible. She was sure she had solved both conundrums why Steven was so motivated and her next strategy she pulled a small jar out of her golf bag. Meanwhile as the two opponents shook hands Steven thought to himself. One more round till Kahili.
Round one was Piers who was a dark type gymleader up against Phoebus it was close but Piers although distracted used his Toxtricity to great effect to finish the match no dynamaxing though. Next was Allister versus Ryuki it went well for Allister Untill Drampa appeared and the normal typing through him into a tizzy. Curiously he had two Alolan pokemon on his team the aforementioned Drampa and Turtonater.
Her chest was pounding in the tunnel blood rushing to her head it was so loud. She could see her opponent was hobbling towards her on a cane. "From Alola huh, wonder if it is pinker there? Time to officially welcome you to Galur. " Kahili had figured starting with resistances was a good idea out first was Oricorio sporting a new pink form. "Ahh a pokemon that can become pink how adorable not the best lead though. Weezing take the stage!" Kantonian Weezing were poison she assumed the same was true of this unfamiliar form come back Oricorio." There was some scattered boos as Golbat substituted in. Poison fang it was a war of attrition neither could do much damage but confuse ray wore down the fairy type eventually. Next was Mawile "I thought my tea would kick in about now oh well, your not the only one with fangs Thunder fang. Golbat was done for after a direct hit from that move. The plan was not going so well her usual Oricorio form would have been so much better here. She needed to wear it down. In came her newest acquisition go Mantine Water pulse! Once again her pokemon became confused. "Fool me twice shame on me deary, now Mawile retreated ending its confusion Togekiss dazzling gleam. Once again the fight was even these two pokemon had high special defense luckily bounce was turning the match in her favor or it was until Airslash, made Mantine flinch several times in a row. Mandibuzz was a liability who to go she could barely think none of her usual pokemon would work. Then she saw Steven in the box Duh she did not just have her usual team. Skarmory I need you to swoop in. Steel wing now quick as a flash Togekiss was in the stands unconscious. Mawhile reappered briefly before a feint attack took it out. Opal seemed so calm though the crowd was against her. I have a question for you, can you handle Dynamaxing as well as your friend did? Suddenly a giant cake pokemon appeared, acid armor, well that will delay the match some, G-max Finale stars exploded Kahili was blinded and now Alcremie appeared fine with an encore Skarmory was down. Her two super effective pokemon were out of commission that left Mandibuzz and Toucannon two physical attackers she needed to whittle away at this giant cake. Maybe she could steel a trick from her opponent. "That was pretty pink Opal I think we could use a little more. Oricorio you're clear for takeoff there were some cheers now that she was playing up to the crowd. Airslash ironically Opal went down to her own tactic from another flying fairy pokemon. Kahili was proud she had kept her head the crowd was more raucous then in golf tournaments or in peaceful easygoing Alola for sure, however she could always win people over if she tried.
Kahili gathered her exhausted pokemon and proceeded out of the locker room, dodging someone else squeezing through the doorway. Turning around she saw Steven in a white sports uniform, the garment was spotless it was the perfect medium between his usual suits and when she first saw him. His collar was slightly popped. Looking like that Steven was in for some new adoring was tempted to talk but a league employee was glowering at them. Settling for a wink Kahili departs for the box.
It was a little emptier this time as the defeated competitors appeared to have left. Her next opponent had headphones on tuning them all out. Chairman Rose was talking to Leon about something in hush tones. Scanning the room she sees a new arrival a young girl with put up hair a leather jacket holding a cute little hamster pokemon. Her pass was behind the pokemon she clutched as tightly as a toddler grips a security blanket. Kahili took a seat next to the girl and watched the field intently. Until Piers took the field, "Go big bro clean his clock." Startled by the cockney accent she turned to her neighbor who had cheered so loudly with a clenched fist. The girl was fiercely proud of her brother no matter what.
Steven strolls across the pitch Piers looks more at ease something had happened winning the first match must have boosted his confidence. Make some noise for Scrafty, Piers sings out the Unovan dark type takes the field. No Megaband an old school battle then he sent out Armaldo was once again Steven's lead. The first turn was a non factor as Fake out rendered Armaldo immobile. Forgoing Swords dance Steven went on the offensive X-scissor sand attack was Pier's answer unfortunately it did not impact Armaldo on the second hit which KO'd the punk pokemon. Toxtricity took the field, Steven was unsure what type it was while Armaldo was at a disadvantage with the stat drop getting info would help. Discharge, an electric field disperses on the battle field. Come on Armaldo Rockslide. Tiredly the pokemon summons rocks but misses due to the stat drop. Recalling the rock bug type wsas the work of a moment and Exadrill took the field. Drill run unaware of the double type advantage Steven is surprised it defeated the rocker looking pokemon in one hit. Malamar the cuttlefish pokemon is Pier's third choice. Quad weak to bug if I recall correctly thought Steven. X- scissor unsurprisingly this time took Malamar down in one hit. "What else do you got Piers?"
Back in the box the girl or rather Piers' sister was banging the glass," Naught Skuntank, it is a bloomin' ground type one sucker punch is not worth beans. " Kahili watched the girls prediction come true this match was all but over one freshly caught Exadrill was dominating Piers. It was funny Steven's old team would have struggled more with it's two psychic types and Skarmory in its support role. By the time she was done musing about this the match was over Steven had not lost a single pokemon. If only her match could go that swimmingly. She looks around and Ryuki is gone he had stormed out his headphones now on the floor by the chair.
Ryuki is now pacing outside he had joined this tournament specifically to battle gymleaders to see if he had what it takes to be one. Both Piers and Opal were looking for successors it had been his chance to convince them. Now he had to beat these two upstarts, from Alola and Hoen to help his case for gymleadership. It was his show he was still the star, now to remind them who was the opening act.
All six of Kahili's pokemon are gathered around Kahili, who is talking to her partners. Oricorio I am going to be counting on you, as the anchor are you up for that. Oricorio! Cries the dancing pokemon, as it curtseys in deference to its trainer. The rest of you are going to set up Oricorio for success now who's ready to rock. With raucous joyful cries her team rushes forward in their excitement. Smiling Kahil says "I will take that as a yes let's go." The first matchup in the semifinals is Turtonator vs Skarmory . Shelltrap to open Turtonator. "Nice try but, this is not my first time seeing that pokemon, spikes Skarmory do not engage. "Nicely done, Skarmory Oricorio chip in!." Turtonator uses Shell trap again, teeter dance, in a series of quick steps Turtonator was confused. Backed into a corner Ryuki subtitutes Dragonair, right into a super effective Revelation dance. Now due to the spikes weakening Dragonair it can no longer battle. "I can keep on Rockin with Garchomp. The landshark pokemon was intimidating, glowering at the tiny opponent across from it. "Never seen that pokemon before so how about a familiar face." Kahili explains in a flash Skarmory is back in. These two pokemon trade blows with Crunchs from Garchomp and Slash attacks from Skarmory. Due to the aid of critical hits Skarmory is victorious .
"Drampa finish off Thunder." Ryuki is beginning to sweat despite a calm exterior, his ace was already beaten, it did not look good for him. Toucannon time to support, soften it up with Screech, Blizzard Drampa, The snowstorm comes and when it clears Toucannon is frozen, Excellent! Keep blitzing it with Blizzard. Unable to even cry out Toucannon faints still encased in a block of ice. Golbat try Poisonfang, Thunder now Drampa! Calls the rockstar in desperation. Golbat latches on before the move is off Drampa hits itself and the bat pokemon. When the smoke clears both are unconscious. The end of the battle is inglorious Hackmo-o is no match for Oricorio and is easily bested. Ryuki surrenders.
Now that the match is over Leon is throwing a pokeball in the air and catching it repeatedly. "I keep thinking that one day Galur will have the best trainers. I cannot keep doing this forever." He sighs as he reattaches the orb to his belt. "so that was why you sent the invitations to Kahili and I, to see if anyone could hang with the Hoen champ." "Sort of I knew you were on my level, but if Alola with no pokemon league can outperform us than maybe something should change. I know you are on vacation Steven, you have been feeling the burnout too. "No I am just enjoying other things, biking, rock collecting, and a cup of coffee in the morning." He looked back to the field for a moment before continuing. Cynthia has lore studies, Diantha has her movie career, even Lance trains other dragon tamers. Leon answer me honestly what do you do other than this?" He sweeps a hand over the arena he is met with silence. "You say you want to see Galur surpass you how are you making that a reality? At this point a league employee interrupts Steven it was time for his match.
Leon moves down a row standing on the other side of Piers from the punk rocker's sister. "Oi that Steven guy better win, after he beat you hollow. " Asserts Piers' biggest fan to her idol. "No worries sis, he knows his stuff she had a right good run but it is over. " For Kahili it was a black vulture pokemon representing her Steven had his Claydol. "She guessed right, that dark type will put Claydol away for sure." "Steven might be fine with that Claydol just needs to beef up first. And I am sure he has coverage for this." Counters the champion. Claydol used Reflect allowing it to survive a wicked punishment attack. Then a slew of ancient powers lays Mandibuzz low. Mantine replaces its fallen comrade. "Now he can just keep using the rock type move." "Sis you are forgetting about pp he's already used three." True but speed is the real issue." Leon's prediction proves correct with Surf evening the game. When Cradilly comes in and also uses ancient power to conquer Mantine a smug Marnie proclaimed "I told you so." Skarmory once again evened up the game with its signature Steelwing. Then the trio gasps for in its full glory is his Metagross. "Now we are having a champion time, I have never seen it come out this early." Thunder punch strike Skarmory the bird cries out in pain from the electric field rippling and ripping through its body, before fainting dead away. "What is that big bro?" Toucannon an unconventional normal flying type. Out of respect for her ace Steven brings out Aggron "Now the other rock type is out this is gonna be uphill for the Alolan. "Wicked smart to run bullet seed, too bad our guy has no straight forward rock types. " Then the match became less interesting and the spectators had less to remark on.
Kahili was down to her last member some lucky confusion had wore down Aggron. Excadrill and Metagross were playing anchor. It was Steven's turn to gasp for Oricorio was still a fairy type. Metal Claw Steven whispers knowing it was over. As they go to shake hands he raises an eyebrow. "Tournament rule teams must stay the same for all matches including forms."
Author's Note Yeah I nerfed Ryuki canonically he should win so he could not be at full strength, he is so clearly a proto Piers and Raihan I made him a Galarian native plus his whole team is obtainable there with the dlc so why not. My other thought is yeah if these places correspond to what they are based on, the S.S. Anne route makes no sense, that is somewhat intentional I really do not think there is a cannon world map so I preferred following the order best for the story. Next time I have to pay off some set up from chapter one. See you then, Sincerely 4Coyote.