After so long, it feels good to say Alola! Hope you guys haven't missed this story too much in its absence. I promise, it's only getting such hiatuses due to the other stories needing to be updated or posted. Rest assured, this story is getting back off of the ground after the end of its most recent arc.
Last time we left off, Calvin had finally won his grand trial match against Hapu. Now that he and Erika have completed their island challenge, what's next? Well, it looks like we're going to find out in this chapter! Hope you enjoy it!
POKÉMON SUN & MOON
THE CHALLENGE OF A LIFETIME
The sun shined over the wood stage of Iki Town as Hau's Decidueye glided over it, drawing an arrow quill from his left wing and setting it onto the vine that acted as the string. Pulling it back, he fired the arrow quill downward. It looped around before piercing into the wooden surface below, followed by a small explosion of dark purple smoke. The Arrow Quill Pokémon landed down in front of trainer.
The smoke settled, revealing a crustacean Pokémon that resembled a crab covered in white fur. The fur itself was fluffier around his mouth, shoulders, and claws, but was absent on his face, the tips of his legs and arms, and portions of his chest, abdomen, back, and arms. On top of his head was a patch of yellow fur with two tufts extending upward. His face was light blue with beady black eyes and a large mouth where two blunt teeth were visible. Below his mouth was a dumbbell-shaped, dark blue marking, and his abdomen was also dark blue with lighter blue stripes. These two sections created the impression of pectoral and abdominal muscles. On his back were two dark blue spots. His arms were segmented into three parts. The arm segments appeared to grow in size, with the smallest being closest to the body, and there was a dark blue spot on the center segment. His claws were light blue with a dark blue pawprint-shaped marking on the tips. The mark that would be the 'palm' of the paw was actually the lower half of the pincer. He also had four short legs with light blue, pointed tips.
"Ergh…" Hau growled out in frustration, "Tutu's Crabominable is really tough…" he noted with narrowed eyes. His grandfather was standing on the other side of the wooden stage, letting off a little smirk.
"Use Ice Hammer!" he commanded. The Woolly Crab Pokémon had his right arm glow a bright blue as he skittered forward, rearing it back.
"Dodge it!" Hau yelled. His Decidueye immediately flapped his wings, flying off just as his foe swung his arm down, striking the stage a powerful rush of mist flew out afterwards. "Ergh…" the ponytailed boy grunted out. Watching on from afar were his twin cousins, along with Leslie, Ash, and Mirajane. Sawyer and Lisanna were also there, spectating as their son was in quite a struggle.
"You can do it, cuz!" Erika cheered, pumping her right fist up.
"Yeah!" Calvin shouted in agreement. Hearing them, Hau let off a grin.
"Decidueye, use Leaf Blade!" he commanded. The leaves at the Arrow Quill Pokémon's tail shined a bright green and sharpened as he dove toward his opponent.
"Stone Edge!" Hala ordered. Crabominable went ahead and slammed his claws against the wooden surface of the stage. All of a sudden, light blue rock pillars erupted, striking his foe and sending him flying back.
"Oh man…" Calvin uttered with a grimace, seeing Decidueye regain his composure as he shook his head while still flapping his wings.
"So that's just how strong Crabrawler got from evolving, huh?" his twin sister noted.
"Yep, zzt!" Rotom buzzed, getting her attention as it was floating beside her, showing off an image of the Woolly Crab Pokémon upon its screen, "Crabominable, the Woolly Crab Pokémon, and the evolved form of Crabrawler," it began, "He just throws punches indiscriminately. In times of desperation, Crabominable can lop off his own pincers and fire them like rockets. Before he stops to think, he just starts pummeling. There are records of Crabominable turning back avalanches with a flurry of punches," it explained thoroughly.
"Whoa…" Erika uttered out, shuddering a little at the thought of how powerful the Woolly Crab Pokémon really was.
"With Crabominable being an Ice-type, it's no wonder Hau's having trouble, even though he's been using Flying-types…" Leslie pointed out, narrowing her eyes.
"Hala's really not going easy on him…" Ash noted aloud.
"He really shouldn't…" Sawyer chimed in, getting his attention, "After what happened with the Ultra Beasts, I don't want Hau to be in Alola unless he's able to handle a really serious opponent," he explained, folding his arms over his chest.
"And Hala's never actually battled Hau in a serious match before, even for their grand trial…" Lisanna mentioned, catching Erika's attention. She recalled a time back on Akala Island when Gladion had brought up how her cousin couldn't beat Melemele's kahuna when he was serious. It seemed as if that claim was being validated by the adults.
"We're not done yet, Tutu!" Hau affirmed as he pumped his right fist back, "Decidueye, Brave Bird!" he commanded.
"Sidge!" the Arrow Quill Pokémon responded, gliding toward his foe. He became surrounded in red fire, which then transformed into a bluish, bird-shaped aura.
"Ice Hammer!" Hala ordered. Raising his right arm, Crabominable had it shine a bright blue as a cold aura wafted off from it. His foe closed in, and they collided with each other in a powerful blast of smoke, veiling the entire stage. Everyone around braced themselves from the impact's force, shielding their eyes.
As the dust was slow to settle, it revealed both Decidueye and Crabominable standing off just a few yards from each other, breathing heavily. The former of the two winced in pain as blue sparks crackled around his body, causing him to falter back a step. Hau grimaced, but then saw the Wooly Crab Pokémon suddenly fall backwards onto the wooden stage's surface. Swirls were in his eyes as he groaned.
"…Huh?" the ponytailed boy uttered in disbelief, widening his eyes. Everyone looked on in awe for a moment. Even Hala seemed surprised. But he grinned under his moustache.
"Well done, Hau!" he complimented, causing his grandson to perk up, "I think that's a good sign of just how far you've come!" he noted as he placed his hands onto his hips.
"Huh?" Hau uttered again, still in shock. He looked over to Decidueye, who flashed him a thumbs up gesture with the digits of his right wing.
"Way to go, Hau!" Erika cheered from afar, clapping with Calvin and Leslie, along with their parents. Sawyer and Lisanna seemed especially proud. The ponytailed boy dropped onto his knees as his eyes were shaking.
"I… actually beat Tutu?" he inquired aloud, tearing up, "We… really won?" he questioned on through a whimper.
"That you did, Hau," his grandfather affirmed in reply, walking over and placing his right hand onto his head as he crouched down in front of him, "I came at you with everything I had, and yet you and your Pokémon still won," he pointed out, "You've earned your right to keep participating in the island challenge and to keep going further beyond," he told him, giving off a big grin. The ponytailed boy couldn't help but start crying with happiness. Even after everything, he'd still get to enjoy the rest of his island challenge along with his cousins.
Watching from afar at the scene was Kukui, who smiled. The three children who had each started their journeys right on that wooden stage had now reached a culmination of their respective journeys. And there was only one thing left to prepare for them…
OPENING
Insert "Rise Above" by Rainych
Opens with the sun dawning over Mount Lanakila. In spite of its freezing air, Calvin and Erika stand firm alongside their full teams of Pokémon as the wind rushes by. Near the base of the mountain is the site of what will be Alola's first ever Pokémon League, where Kukui stands with an excited grin on his face.
A rainbow of flower petals washes over the logo as we cut to Calvin lamenting on the boardwalk of the Seafolk Village, sitting alone and wondering if he can really take on the rest of the island challenge. At the same time, Erika is lying on her bed upon her side, thinking about the exact same thing. They both clench their fists determinedly, ready to see things through.
We cut to Calvin flying aboard a Charizard, while Erika's aboard a Pelipper. They fly throughout each of Alola's islands, smiling all the while. They see Ilima, Lana, Kiawe, Mallow, Sophocles, Acerola, Mina, Hala, Olivia, Nanu, and Hapu along the way as they arrive at the Pokémon League.
There, they're greeted by their parents and their big sister, who encourage them as they enter through the doors into the stadium. Inside, they find Hau, Pyrrha, Paige, Trent, and Gladion there. Others like Ryuki, Plumeria, and even Guzma are present. The Ketchum twins both grin excitedly, prepared to engage in some amazing battles.
The scene changes to Calvin commanding his Toucannon to use Beak Blast to take down a Machoke, while Erika has her Lurantis use X-Scissor to down an opponent's Bisharp. Hau's Decidueye goes up against Gladion and Silvally. The Synthetic Pokémon evades his foe's arrow quills before landing a powerful Fire-type Multi-Attack. Decidueye endures it, while Hau prepares a green Z-Crystal with a symbol similar to his partner, cracking a smirk.
We cut to Paige revealing a Key Stone around her neck as she uses it to Mega Evolve her Blaziken, who speeds out to attack Pyrrha's Typhlosion with a Blaze Kick. He counters by using Flamethrower. In the meantime, Trent commands his Alolan Ninetales to use Blizzard on Ryuki's Turtonator. The Blast Turtle Pokémon endures the freezing winds, unleashing a Flamethrower that appears to engulf his foe.
Calvin and Erika are then facing off, with Incineroar and Primarina battling for them. The two collide via a Flare Blitz/Aqua Jet, resulting in a powerful blast. As it clears, we witness Lycanroc slamming his clenched paws against the ground for a Stone Edge aimed to take down Araquanid. However, the Water Bubble Pokémon blasts the incoming stone pillars apart with Liquidation. Oricorio in her Baile Style comes out to unleash the searing fireball of a Revelation Dance toward Toucannon, who endures the attack and retaliates with Hyper Voice.
As the dust settles, we see Lurantis enduring Trop Kicks from Tsareena, gathering sunlight to unleash a Solar Blade onto the Fruit Pokémon. Mimi comes out from the dust, unleashing Shadow Claws onto Starbright, who endures them. She then strikes back with a Meteor Mash, merely busting the costume of the Disguise Pokémon as she chases after her opponent. Finally, we have Marowak using Shadow Bone to bash the incoming icicles of Sandslash, who dives down at him with an Iron Head.
The dust clears again, revealing the Ketchum twins staring at each other confidently with their teams. They're prepared for whatever else is ahead for them as they stand outside the stadium as the sun sets…
END OPENING
A League of Their Own!
"A brand new Pokémon League?!" Erika exclaimed in surprise. It was a week after Hau had beaten Hala in their grand trial match. He was back on Poni Island, finishing up his island challenge with his last two trials and another grand trial match against Hapu. That left his twin cousins to finally get some time to themselves back at their vacation home. However, they were a bit shell-shocked by being told the news from their older sister…
"It's happening in a month or so," she told her siblings while finishing her plate of pancakes at the kitchen table, "Professor Kukui was getting it all set up at Mount Lanakila while you guys were out on your island challenge," she mentioned.
"Oh yeah…" Erika uttered, recalling the construction that the professor had shown her when she was atop Mount Hokulani way back when. Calvin also remembered seeing it, too.
"So… how do they determine who can compete?" he asked curiously before taking a bite of his pancakes.
"Right now, Kukui says that anyone that's gotten all four island challenge stamps within the past few years can compete," Ash replied, sitting down next to him and having some coffee in hand, "That includes the trial captains, too," he added.
"So we're probably gonna see trainers like Kiawe and Lana again," Erika concluded.
"He also said he was probably to extend the invitation to trainers around the world who have eight gym badges," her mother chimed in as she walked over with a tray of food, setting it onto the table, "Although, I do hope that won't end up backfiring…" she admitted in concern.
"Whaddaya mean, Mom?" Calvin inquired.
"Between trainers around the world who get gym badges and island challengers, I think there might be a lot of people coming to this first-ever Alola League…" she explained in response, sitting down next to her husband.
"And they're probably just as tough as anyone else," he mentioned. There was a brief silence at the table.
"So there's more competition…" Erika finally said, causing everyone to look over at her in surprise, "Well, that doesn't matter to me!" she proclaimed, "I'll still do my best like I would want to!" she affirmed on, giggling a little. Leslie looked at her little sister with awe before smiling.
"You've really grown up a lot, haven't you?" she assumed, getting her attention as she was in the middle of having a bite of her pancakes. She pouted a little, turning away with reddening cheeks of embarrassment.
"Th-Thanks…" she stuttered out, "I'm just glad things turned out for the best…" she admitted.
"I'm glad, too," Leslie replied, sharing a giggle with her sister. The whole family smiled, glad that things were turning out for the best. Just then, Pikachu felt his ears stick up in alarm. However, he smiled excitedly, bounding his way over to the front door.
"Pika, peekah!" he squeaked, getting the attention of the family at the kitchen table as they looked to see him hop up, grab the handle and pull the door open. Both Calvin and Erika smiled.
"Hau!" they exclaimed upon seeing their ponytailed cousin there, as he cheekily chuckled, rubbing the back of his head.
"Mornin'!" he greeted as he walked in, "Figured I'd stop by and spread the good word!" he noted, taking out his Trainer Passport and opening it, "Ta-dah!" he shouted out happily, showing off the Tapu Fini-like stamp he had gotten, "I finally finished my island challenge!" he pointed out proudly.
"That's great, Hau!" Calvin complimented as he got up from his seat and jogged over.
"Now we're all gonna be ready to get into the Alola League!" Erika excitedly added, bounding up to the two boys. At the table, the others smiled at them.
"They're really looking forward to this…" Leslie noted.
"I can't blame them," her father admitted as Pikachu hopped onto his left shoulder, "I mean, I was like that back in the day, too," he pointed out additionally, making his wife giggle.
"Whoa, this is such a nice place!" another voice suddenly complimented, getting their attentions as they looked to the front door. Coming inside were Pyrrha, Paige, and Trent.
"For a vacation home, it sure is big…" the latter of the entering trio noted as he looked around.
"Guys, let's not be rude…" the silvery-haired girl insisted, causing them to perk up as they looked towards those in front of them, "Uh, hi there!" Paige greeted, blushing a little, "Um, we were just in the neighborhood and uh… wanted to drop by to see how Calvin and Erika were doing…" she explained awkwardly.
"Smooth…" Trent commented, earning himself an elbowing from Pyrrha.
"Hey guys!" Erika greeted as she approached the trio, "Did you finish your island challenge, too?" she inquired.
"Yep," Pyrrha answered, pulling out her Trainer Passport to show off her latest stamp upon it, "And we all heard about the Alola League happening in a month!" she mentioned excitedly.
"And we heard about who might be in it…" Trent chimed in, folding his arms over his chest, "Honestly, Professor Kukui's gonna turn the first Alola League into one big cluster—"
"ANYWAY!" Paige exclaimed, interrupting the green-haired boy as she smacked her left hand over his mouth, "We were thinking before we all went off to train for the league, we could all hang out for a couple days," she told her fellow trial-goers, "Go to the beach, grab some lunch…" she listed off, "not to have to stress over getting ready for battles…" she mentioned, earning a few chuckles from her friends, "So, whaddaya say?" she inquired of the group.
"I'm all for it," Erika answered, "After everything, I could use the R-and-R…" she admitted with a giggle.
"Same…" Hau agreed.
"Then I guess we can all hit the beach by Professor Kukui's place!" Calvin inferred, "I actually wanted to try and head there to meet up with some of my other Pokémon," he pointed out.
"Ooh, me too!" his twin sister agreed. Ash, Mirajane and Leslie smiled at them, glad to hear their enthusiasm. At that moment, the former blinked upon realizing something.
"Oh, shoot!" he yelped, getting up from his seat and guzzling down what remained of his coffee, "I totally forgot that I gotta go help oversee the PLF's rulings for the Alola League!" he noted aloud, "Pikachu!" he called out.
"Pika!" his partner squeaked, hopping over to a nearby coatrack to grab his trainer's hat.
"The PLF?" Calvin repeated in confusion.
"The Pokémon League Federation," Trent said, "Guess since this is the first-ever Pokémon League in Alola, they'd wanna make sure everything's all set in stone," he pointed out with a shrug.
"You're part of the committee, Mister Ketchum?" Paige inquired, sounding surprised.
"Uh, sorta…" Ash responded, sheepishly rubbing the back of his head, "The truth is, I'm technically considered a Champion Master, and they're having the ones of each region come down to look at how things are being set up from a tournament perspective…" he explained to the trial-goers.
"Doesn't sound too bad…" Hau pointed out.
"Wait, does that mean I need to go, too?!" Leslie questioned, scrambling to her feet. In the process though, she accidentally slammed her knee against the bottom of the table. "OW!" she yelped, falling over onto the floor and groaning. Her father gave off a little smile.
"Don't worry, Les," he assured, "Iris is gonna be there for Unova, so you don't need to be there," he told her.
"B-But—"
"And Dylan isn't going to be there either, if that's what you're wondering," Mirajane chimed in, much to her eldest daughter's embarrassment as her cheeks went pink, "Thought I'm sure you'll get to see him later today…" she teased with a giggle.
"M-Mom!" Leslie stuttered out. Calvin and Erika laughed. Things were seemingly back to normal. And soon, they'd get to experience quite the challenge ahead.
X
"Poliwag, Bubble Beam!" Calvin commanded with a swing of his left arm. The Tadpole Pokémon leapt up from the sandy beach, puffing his cheeks out before unleashing a steady stream of bubbles down at Gumshoos. He merely stood his ground, taking the bubbles head on as he only slid back a few yards.
"Poll… pol…" Poliwag exhaled exhaustedly, while his trainer frowned with concern.
"What's the gloomy look for, cuz?" Hau asked, wrapping his left arm around Calvin's shoulders as he yelped in surprise.
"Oh, uh…" he uttered out, sheepishly scratching at his right cheek as he glanced off to the side, while both Poliwag and Gumshoos approached, "guess I kinda feel like we're stuck in a bit of a rut right now," he admitted. Upon arriving at the beach to hang out for the rest of the day, the Ketchum boy decided to check in with his other Pokémon. Seeing Gumshoos, Marowak and Poliwag again was really nice. But he noticed that the latter of the three seemed really antsy, almost as if he wanted to try and prove himself. Though he wanted to just hang out and relax for the day, Calvin ultimately decided that he wanted to help the Tadpole Pokémon, thus leading to their training.
"I haven't really seen you use him in many battles…" his cousin noted as he pulled his arm away.
"Well, it's difficult to think of a way to properly train, especially considering how strong my team is already…" the Ketchum boy noted, putting his right hand onto his chin.
"Polll…" Poliwag moaned dejectedly.
"D-Don't worry!" his trainer stuttered out, "We've got plenty of time to help get you trained up and as strong as everyone else!" he affirmed as he crouched down to the Tadpole Pokémon's eye level.
"Poll!" he squeaked in response, nodding his head.
"Mah, mahroh," Marowak chimed in.
"Guh," Gumshoos agreed. Their trainer chuckled, thankful for their support.
"Okay, let's try and focus on what we can do right now and then improve upon it," he advised of his partners, enticing them all to nod in response. Meanwhile, Lurantis was snoozing in the sunlight near the water, resting easily thanks to the calming sounds of the sea. However, that was ruined by a shadow coming over her. She growled, opening her eyes before taking notice of none other than Drifblim looming right above her.
"Blimm?" he uttered with a teasing expression. A tick mark appeared upon the Bloom Sickle Pokémon's head before she angrily shot up onto her feet, swiping at Drifblim as he giggled, floating away while she pursued him.
"Uh… Eri?" Pyrrha uttered upon noticing the scene, getting her friend's attention, "Should you do something about that?" she questioned, pointing towards the bickering Pokémon.
"Nah, Drifblim just likes to play around with Lurantis…" Erika confirmed in reply, "Anyways, I wanted you to meet one of my strongest Pokémon!" she pointed out, gesturing to her Palossand, who seemed pretty embarrassed by the sudden compliment, "Without him, I don't think I would've been able to beat Acerola's trial…" his trainer admitted, "He's amazing!" she mentioned.
"Pahlohhh…" the Sand Castle Pokémon responded, quite flattered.
"You seem to have a thing for catching Ghost-types, Eri," Paige pointed out, getting her attention as she saw her approach, "Between Oricorio, Drifblim, and Palossand," she listed off, "I wouldn't be surprised if you ended up training another one for the league," she noted with crossed arms.
"Well, Oricorio's technically a Flying-type first…" the Ketchum girl replied.
"Doezzz that mean you're gonna change her typezzz throughout the league, zzt?" Rotom asked, floating over.
"I guess, so long as I've got the nectars she'll need," its user responded as she glanced up in thought for a moment, "And so long as she's okay with it," she mentioned, seeing the Dancing Pokémon prance about contently, waving her wings elegantly. Primarina and Lycanroc were snoozing next to each other nearby, while Magmar was practicing his punches alongside Sandslash and Starbright. Their trainer smiled, glad that they were all enjoying the time to themselves before the tournament ahead.
"Polleeeeeeeee!" Poliwag squeaked as he unleashed another steady stream of bubbles, heading toward Hau's Noibat as he quickly flapped his wings and flew up to evade them.
"That's it, Noibat!" his trainer called out.
"Polll…" the Tadpole Pokémon whined dejectedly.
"It's okay, Poliwag," Calvin assured, getting his attention, "Even if you don't get it right away, you still have a lot of time to get ready before the league," he pointed out, clenching his right fist, "Now let's keep at it," he insisted.
"Poll!" his partner responded with a smile.
"I thought we came down here to get away from training for a while…" Trent muttered from nearby, sitting on the sand with his hand upon his cheek.
"Well, we oughta' consider what our Pokémon want to do, you know?" the Ketchum boy retorted upon overhearing him, causing him to blink in surprise, "If they wanna train right now, I don't see any reason to say no!" he declared, "Poliwag, Body Slam!" he commanded.
"Poll!" the Tadpole Pokémon squeaked, hopping up and slamming his body against the airborne Noibat, sending him crashing down onto the sand.
"Ah!" Hau gasped out. Fortunately, the Sound Wave Pokémon stood back up afterwards, grimacing just a little.
"Nice hit, Poliwag!" Calvin complimented.
"Polleee!" the Tadpole Pokémon exclaimed happily. All of a sudden, he was engulfed by a bright blue light, causing everyone around to gasp in surprise upon noticing. His body morphed, with him gaining a pair of arms as well as legs, while his tail disappeared. When the light dissipated, it revealed that he had evolved into a Poliwhirl.
"Werrlll!" he exclaimed, raising his new arms.
"Wow, you evolved!" his trainer yelled, sounding delighted.
"Pollee!" the evolved Tadpole Pokémon responded happily.
"Nice going, Cal!" Erika complimented as she and the others came over. Rotom had an image of the evolved Tadpole Pokémon appear upon its screen.
"Poliwhirl, the Tadpole Pokémon, and the evolved form of Poliwag," it began, "Although he can live on land, Poliwhirl prefers to stay in the water, where he has fewer natural enemies. Poliwhirl's health suffers when his skin dries out, so be sure to moisturize him diligently," it explained thoroughly.
"We're one step closer to being ready for the league," Calvin noted as he crouched down beside Poliwhirl, getting his attention.
"Werrlll," he affirmed in response as he nodded.
"Training hard, huh?" a familiar voice chimed in, getting their attentions as they looked over with the others to see Gladion approaching alongside a Charmeleon, "Hey," he greeted.
"Gladion…" Calvin and Erika uttered simultaneously, giving off smiles.
X
"I have to admit, this is really impressive…" a male voice admitted from the base of Mount Lanakila. Surrounding the mountain were six small arenas, each with different terrains, being either a rocky field, a grassland, a beach of sand, a pool of water with platforms, a floor of ice with stalagmites, and a standard dirt field. Beyond those six separate arenas was the stadium at the mountain's peak, which all shined with spotlights. Within it was a wide field of grass, similar to that of a soccer field. Workers inside were installing the many seats for spectators.
Ash and Pikachu were standing at the base amongst the other Champion Masters of the other regions. One was a tall, thin man with ice-blue hair and eyes. He wore a charcoal jacket with two black zig-zag stripes, a white undershirt and a red tie. He also had skinny black pants and black shoes with low heels, as well as metallic jewelry on both of his sleeves and his index and ring fingers. He has a pin on his jacket with a Key Stone upon it.
Another was a tall, and slender woman with wavy knee-length creamy blonde hair that had bangs covering her left eye. Her eyes themselves were gray. She wore straight black leg trousers, a long black coat with a V-neck and black fur rimming the cuffs and running down the end of the coat, and a large teardrop shaped ornament on the center of the coat used as a fastener. She also donned a black top underneath. Her outfit was finished with black kitten heels and a yellow stripe on each shoes. For accessories, she wore a large, black feathery ruff around her neck with two hair clips in her hair, both resembling two teardrop-shaped object conjoined with a pale yellow stripe.
Next to her was Iris, who was dressed in her regular clothes. Beside her was a woman with short light brown hair that was designed in a somewhat star pattern with the front bangs standing up, light blue eyes and violet eyeshadow. She wore a fairy-like white outfit with lots of gold trim. She was also equipped with a white choker and white long-sleeved blazer with lapels that possessed large buttons and also a small collar, the blazer finished with three petal-like ends and the sleeves had two golden lines on the cuffs. Two lacy objects on the back of her outfit resembled cloud-like wings that were connected to the blazer. She also wore a simple white shirt with two golden lines near the end of the shirt. Finishing her attire, she had short white shorts and low high heel boots, also the color white. She carried a pink purse and wore a gold swan-shaped necklace with a Key Stone upon it as well.
Lastly, there was a tall man with long, purple hair and amber eyes. He wore a baseball cap tilted upwards to show off the crown design on the brim, a red fur-lined cape that had various logos of sponsors on the back, and a black striped shirt that had a sword and shield on it. He also wore white shorts with white tights underneath with a black-and-gold, diamond pattern down the side. His eyes were practically sparkling at what lied ahead of him.
"This is nuts compared to what we have in Wyndon!" he exclaimed, "You really went and outdid yourself, Kukui!" he complimented to the professor, who walked up to the Champion Masters.
"Well, it wouldn't have happened if I hadn't gone and suggested it to the higher-ups of the PLF," he pointed out in response, sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck.
"It kinda reminds me of the stadium for the Lumiose Conference way back when," Ash admitted, adjusting his cap.
"Nah, it's definitely a lot more like the Vertress Conference with the different stadiums," Iris argued with her hands at her hips. She shot a smirk toward her former traveling companion, who frowned in annoyance. But he chuckled all the same.
"What's the capacity for the stadiums themselves?" Diantha Hepburn asked curiously.
"Around thirty-thousand for the smaller ones," Kukui answered, "And practically double that for Manalo Stadium up top," he mentioned, looking toward the arena at the peak.
"It's incredible…" Steven Stone complimented, "Though, there are some concerns…" he pointed out, causing the professor to perk up, "For example, how are you planning to combat the cold weather, especially at the peak?" he questioned curiously.
"And where are we having spectators stay along with the challengers?" Cynthia Letoris asked on. Just as Kukui was about to answer…
"The stadiums have been built with protective barriers like those in Galar, keeping the fans nice and warm, even in this weather," a voice responded, getting their attentions, "We're planning to have Tapu Village act as a home base for challengers, while Malie City will be where our fans will be staying," he mentioned, "Considering how the Tapu wasn't so kind to those trying to build up a supermarket in its territory, I think it's fair to say we shouldn't try to build housing for anyone around there…" he added on. Approaching was a tall and handsome tan-skinned man with black hair, green eyes, and neatly trimmed facial hair. Despite his svelte appearance, he also had a round, portly belly. Clothing-wise, he had one ear pierced and wore a sharp gray business suit. It consisted of a gray vest with numerous black buttons, a gray overcoat with a single gold button, a white shirt, and a red tie. He also wore classy gray pants that matched his suit, along with a gold and black belt, pointed red and black shoes, and a gold watch.
"Chairman Rose…" Leon uttered in surprise.
"Come to see the project in its final stages?" Kukui guessed as he approached the well-dressed man.
"It's marvelous, Kukui," he complimented, holding his right hand out for a handshake, "I'm glad you came to me with this bold idea," he pointed out, "Alola does need more than just its traditions to attract greater tourism," he noted, looking back toward Manalo Stadium.
"I'm just doing this for the island challengers to have something else to strive towards," the professor said, shaking his hand firmly, "It gives them the chance to prove that all those trials were worth it in the end," he added with a grin.
"I do agree with that, too," Rose assured with a chuckle.
"Uh, speaking of which…" Ash chimed in as he approached, getting their attentions, "I was hearing word that there were going to be challengers that not only finished the island challenge, but also ones who got eight badges from any other region," he told them, "Won't that bring in too many trainers?" he inferred worriedly.
"You needn't worry, Mister Ketchum," another female voice chimed in, getting his attention as he turned his head and yelped. Standing there a tall and slender woman with fair skin, green eyes, and long blonde wavy hair. She wore a long white coat with the sleeves rolled up, a red blouse, a black pencil skirt, sheer gray pantyhose, and matching black high heels. For accessories, she wore a black choker, hoop earrings, and a silver bracelet. She also had red lipstick as well as red-painted fingernails. "Chairman Rose has made certain to have a cap on trainers who're allowed entry into this tournament," she affirmed.
"That's right, Oleana," the well-dressed man responded with a smile, "There'll be a little over five hundred trainers at max, if we're going by a round-robin sort of format, of course," he explained to the group, "Furthermore, island challengers will have a week in advance to register themselves over gym challengers," he mentioned, raising his right pointer and middle fingers, "Alola's top trainer should be one that follows the traditions, right?" he assumed.
"Is this registration offer extended to trial-goers who've completed the island challenge in the past year or…?" Steven started to ask.
"I've actually extended it out to anyone that's completed the island challenge," Kukui answered to his surprise, "Not many have finished getting all four stamps in the past, so there might not be many for the tournament," he admitted, putting his hands onto his hips, "But I'm really excited to see just what kinds of trainers there'll be!" he mentioned excitedly.
"As am I!" Rose agreed, "Huh…" he exhaled, looking back at the stadium, "Still, I do wish there was a Power Spot here," he confessed, "The kinds of battles that would unfold could easily match up to those in Galar," he boasted. Hearing that, Kukui blinked in surprise. "Oh, I don't mean it like that!" the chairman assured as he waved his hands in front of himself, "Anyways, I should be going," he pointed out, "There's a new gym leader coming onto the scene that I'm looking forward to seeing!" he mentioned, "I think you remember him, don't you, Leon?" he asked of the Galar Champion Master, who perked up.
"Thank you for your time," Oleana said, bowing to the group before joining her boss in heading off.
"So that was Chairman Rose, huh?" Iris inquired in a whisper.
"Yeah, the head of the PLF in the Galar Region," Ash answered, "But I hear he's got a huge outreach, especially since he's the president of Macro Cosmos," he told her quietly.
"Wait, that Macro Cosmos?!" the Unova Champion Master exclaimed in shock, "Geez, no wonder he's got such a huge hold on the PLF worldwide…" she pointed out.
"It's thanks to him that the Lanakila Conference is gonna happen in a month," Kukui noted, getting their attentions, "But of course, I do want us to test each of the stadiums to make sure they're battle-ready," he mentioned to the group of Champion Masters.
"And we'd certainly be happy to help with that," Cynthia assured in response, "Steven, would you care for a match with me?" she inquired of the Hoenn Champion Master, getting his attention.
"It would be my pleasure," he answered.
"It'd be rude of me to not ask if one of our youngest Champion Masters would like to battle," Diantha noted as she approached Iris, who blinked in surprise.
"M-Me?" she stuttered, blushing a little out of flattery, "Uh, sure!" she finally responded.
"Guess that leaves us with…" Ash started to say to Pikachu, only for Leon to step out in front of him.
"I'm stoked to be facing one of the strongest trainers in all the world!" he proclaimed, "We're gonna have a champion time!" he declared as he posed with his left hand up into the air.
"Yeah!" Ash agreed.
"Peekah!" Pikachu squeaked excitedly. Watching each of the Champion Masters head to different stadiums in pairs, Kukui grinned. The first Alola League was looking to be an epic experience…
X
"Char…" Charmeleon cooed as Erika scratched at his chin back on the beach.
"Since when did you get yourself a Charmeleon?" she asked of Gladion.
"I was actually in Kanto a little while ago to get some help from a local researcher there," he told her in reply, "While I was down there, I found this guy as a Charmander and caught him," he mentioned, giving off a little smile, "He's pretty friendly, as you can probably tell," he added on.
"He's super cute and cool!" Pyrrha complimented.
"Yeah," Paige agreed with crossed arms and a nod.
"So you were doing research in Kanto?" Calvin inquired as he approached, "Was it for your mom?" he assumed on. Gladion blinked in surprise, but then lowered his gaze.
"Yeah…" he confirmed as a response, "When she was fused with Nihilego, her nervous system was damaged by its neurotoxins," he explained, "I went to Kanto for some introspective from someone who had been fused with a Pokémon before," he continued, "Honestly, I didn't really get much out of it," he admitted.
"What'll happen to her if she doesn't get some kind of help?" Trent wondered aloud.
"She'll pull through," Gladion assured in reply, "She's that stubborn after all…" he mentioned, glancing over to Erika and Calvin, "Anyways, I didn't come here to dwell on that," he pointed out, "I wanted to say thank you… for what you both did for Lillie," he told the twins, who blinked in surprise, "And for our mother," he added, "Honestly, I appreciate it more than you maybe probably know," he admitted on.
"We would've helped out regardless," Erika chimed in, causing him to perk up as he looked at her, "Even if your mom was totally crazy, there wasn't gonna be anything that stopped us from helping you get her back," she pointed out, letting off a smile.
"Yeah," her brother agreed, "And it wasn't just us," he mentioned, "Everyone wanted to help save her," he noted, gesturing towards the others, who all nodded with grins. Gladion blinked before he let off a little smile of his own.
"I think the only way I can really thank you right now is with a battle," he affirmed as he took out a Premier Ball, enlarging it with a press of its button. Calvin was a little surprised, but even more so when he saw the red Z-Power Ring on the blonde-haired boy's left wrist. "I got this from Officer Nanu," he pointed out, "I'm going to work hard to get up to your level and take on the whole island challenge," he declared, "But first, I'm going to give you a great battle," he stated firmly. Hearing that, the Ketchum boy let off a smile.
"Okay Gladion…" he uttered out, grabbing a Poké Ball off of his own belt and enlarging it with a press of its button, "I'll give you a great battle, too!" he decided. Everyone around smiled. A few moments later, the two trainers stood a dozen yards apart from each other on the sandy beach. Rearing their arms back without a word, they each threw their respective Poké Balls forward. They popped open, with their lights spilling onto the ground and shaping into form. When they dissipated, they revealed Silvally and Incineroar respectively.
"Sivahh!" the Synthetic Pokémon exclaimed.
"Rawrr!" the Heel Pokémon roared excitedly, taking on a ready stance.
"Incineroar against Silvally, huh?" Trent noted, folding his arms over his chest.
"Those two haven't fought each other since way back when we first met on Akala Island…" Erika recalled.
"And it wazzz a draw back then, zzt…" Rotom mentioned. At that moment, its user noticed something peculiar. Silvally's eyes, drives, spikes, and fin membrane were all a cool, watery blue. She blinked in confusion.
"We'll take the first move!" Calvin declared with a swing of his right arm, "Darkest Lariat!" he commanded. Dark red flames erupted on Incineroar's hands before she spun forward, heading toward her foe.
"X-Scissor!" Gladion ordered. The Synthetic Pokémon had its front legs glow a bright yellowish-green. It raised them up as its opponent closed in, slashing at her in an x-shaped pattern. A plume of dust erupted from their impact as they jumped back.
"Incineroar, Cross Chop!" the Ketchum boy yelled.
"Sehh rawr!" the Heel Pokémon responded, crossing her arms in front of herself as they glowed a bright orange. She launched forward, heading for Silvally.
"Crush Claw!" Gladion commanded. The Synthetic Pokémon had its claws at its front legs glow red as it brought them up again. It collided them with Incineroar, resulting in another strong blast of sand. Everyone watching from afar braced themselves.
"Whoa…" Hau uttered out as the dust settled.
"Yeah…" Erika said, nodding her head, "It's nothing like back then…" she concluded, watching as Silvally hopped back to avoid getting hit by the spinning Heel Pokémon, followed by cloaking itself in a white light and ramming itself into her.
"Both Incineroar and Silvally worked hard to help Calvin and Gladion achieve their goalzzz, zzt," Rotom pointed out, "In a way, thizzz battle'zzz a culmination of everything they've gone through," it mentioned.
"That sounds true enough…" Trent agreed.
"Flare Blitz!" Calvin ordered. Cloaking herself in light red fire with orange streaks spiraling around her, the Heel Pokémon lunged out and slammed into Silvally head on, resulting in an explosion that blew it back. It slid along the sand before coming to a stop beside its trainer, letting out a growl.
"Not bad, Calvin…" Gladion remarked, swiping his left thumb across his nose, "But you remember, Silvally's got the ability to be any type of Pokémon," he pointed out, "And that's where this comes in!" he declared additionally, sticking his right hand out, "Multi-Attack!" he commanded. A glint appeared in the Synthetic Pokémon's eyes before it dashed forward. An ocean blue-colored aura shrouded its body as it struck Incineroar with its claws, sending her sliding back along the sand as she winced.
"Incineroar!" her trainer cried out.
"Whoa, what was that?!" Paige yelped in question.
"It looked like a Water-type attack…" Pyrrha noted as she blinked out of surprise.
"I think it was…" Erika concluded, causing them to look over to her.
"So that's how powerful Silvally can be, huh?" Calvin assumed as he saw Incineroar fully stand back up.
"That's right," Gladion responded, "Its ability, RKS System, lets it be any one of the eighteen Pokémon types at once," he told him, "When the people at Aether Paradise reverse-engineered it before, it was known as 'Type: Full'," he mentioned, "But when they couldn't control it, they suppressed its power with that helmet it had, declaring it to be 'Type: Null'," he explained on.
"Then that makes you really amazing, since you can control it," Calvin pointed out, causing him to blink in surprise, "Silvally really trusts you, and in turn it'll always lend you a helping hand," he noted with a chuckle. The blonde-haired boy looked to his partner, seeing him simply nod. For a moment, he said nothing. But he didn't have to as he smiled.
"Silvally, Iron Head!" he commanded. Cloaking itself in a whitish light, the Synthetic Pokémon lunged out at its foe.
"Use Outrage!" Calvin ordered. With his eyes glowing red, Incineroar swung her right arm out to counter her foe in a fierce shockwave. What followed was her swiping at Silvally over and over, knocking it back as it tumbled along the sand.
"Silvally!" Gladion exclaimed.
"Nice one, Cal!" Hau cheered from afar.
"I wouldn't celebrate just yet…" Trent advised, getting his attention as he blinked in surprise. All of a sudden, Incineroar stumbled a little as her eyes remained red.
"Oh, shoot…" Calvin grumbled, remembering the aftereffects of using Outrage so callously. In the meantime, Silvally got back onto its feet.
"Multi-Attack!" its trainer commanded. An ocean blue-colored aura shrouded the Synthetic Pokémon. It charged at its confused foe, slashing at her with its claws.
"RAAAHHRRR!" she roared in pain, shaking her head to regain herself. She turned too late though as she was struck yet again, tumbling across the sand and coming to a stop upon her back.
"Incineroar, you okay?!" her trainer asked immediately in concern.
"Now Crush Claw!" Gladion ordered, swinging his left arm out. Silvally raised its front legs as its claws shined a bright red, about to slam them onto its foe.
"Block it with Darkest Lariat!" Calvin instructed quickly. Gnashing her teeth together, Incineroar had dark red flames erupt upon her hands before she started spinning around rapidly, kicking up sand while also countering her foe's attempted strikes. Some of the sand got into the Synthetic Pokémon's eyes, causing it to reflexively shut them as it stumbled back.
"Silvally!" Gladion cried out.
"Now use Flare Blitz!" Calvin commanded. Light red fire with orange streaks engulfed the Heel Pokémon once more before she dashed forward and slammed into the blinded Silvally, sending it flying back. It landed down upon its feet, shaking its head and blinking to regain its sight.
"Sivaaaahhhh!" it roared out.
"Rawwrrr!" Incineroar snarled back, smirking all the while.
"I guess it's time to take things a little more seriously…" Gladion decided, adjusting the left sleeve of his hoodie to make sure his Z-Power Ring was secured. Upon it was a Normalium Z. Noticing, Calvin blinked in surprise before grinning.
"Ready to do this, Incineroar?" he called out in question to his partner, setting the Incinium Z onto his own Z-Power Ring.
"Roaaawwrrr!" she responded eagerly. Both trainer crossed their arms over their faces, causing their respective Z-Crystals to flash. Everyone watching kept their eyes on them as they performed their dances, gathering energy for their Pokémon. The energy around Gladion shot out in orange streaks to Silvally, merging with its body as the Z-Move symbol flashed in front of it.
"Let's break through and win, Silvally!" its trainer insisted, thrusting his right hand forward, "BREAKNECK BLITZ!" he roared out. The Synthetic Pokémon dashed out instantaneously, heading toward its foe, who had just gathered the red energy of her trainer's Z-Power.
'Gladion…' Calvin uttered inwardly, looking at the blonde-haired boy, 'I don't think I really considered what you probably went through because of your mom and having to take care of Null…' he realized, 'So in turn, we're gonna give you our all since you wanted us to!' he proclaimed through his thoughts.
"Incineroar!" he called out to his partner, who grinned wickedly as the Z-Move symbol flashed in front of her body, "MALICIOUS MOONSAULT!" he bellowed. Yellow-orange fire surrounded the Heel Pokémon's body before she mightily leapt up into the air. Silvally lunged up at her, while she dove toward it.
"GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" their trainers simultaneously screamed. The two Pokémon slammed into each other, resulting in a fierce explosion that everyone braced themselves from.
"WAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!" Rotom shrieked as it was almost blown away, only for Erika to jump up and catch it. The smoke was slow to clear. But once it did, it revealed both Incineroar and Silvally standing off just a couple yards from each other. For a moment, nothing happened. And then, the Synthetic Pokémon buckled before falling over, having swirls in its eyes. Both Calvin and Gladion blinked in surprise. But then, they smiled.
"Way to go, cuz!" Hau called out as he ran over alongside the others, wrapping his right arm around the Ketchum boy as he yelped, followed by laughing. In the meantime, Gladion went over to Silvally, who picked itself from the sandy ground.
"Guess we still have a long way to go before we reach his level…" he admitted to the Synthetic Pokémon, getting its attention, "But you did great," he assured to it.
"Sivahh!" it responded, licking its trainer's face affectionately.
"Char, char mee!" Charmeleon chimed in as he approached. They looked over to see Incineroar hoisting Calvin up onto her left shoulder as everyone crowded around him, complimenting him on his victory. Gladion grinned, walking over alongside his Pokémon.
"Calvin," he said, getting the Ketchum boy's attention as he saw him approach. The Heel Pokémon set him down in front of the blonde-haired boy.
"Thanks for the battle, Gladion," he said with gratitude, extending his right hand out for a handshake, "I'll be waiting at the Alola League to see how much stronger you are," he declared.
"Yeah," his rival responded, accepting his hand into his own firmly, "And we won't lose," he proclaimed.
"You better not forget about us!" another voice chimed in, getting their attentions as they looked over at Erika along with the other trial-goers, "We're gonna be aiming for the win, too!" she declared proudly.
"Yeah!" Hau agreed as he pumped his right fist.
"Hm," Gladion chuckled, "I know we're not exactly friends, but we're not enemies either," he noted, causing Calvin to blink in surprise, "I guess being a rival to everyone here works for now," he decided. Everyone laughed in response, causing him to look rather confused. "What is it?" he asked.
"You don't know us well, Gladion…" Erika responded, shaking her head.
X
And so, an entire month passed. The Ketchum twins, along with many other trial-goers, trained for days on end as time dwindled. Once the registration process finally opened, Calvin and Erika were quick to submit their information, along with the credentials that they were eligible. Hau, Pyrrha, Paige and Trent did the same, along with many others.
It wasn't long before they ventured off to Mount Lanakila, with the Ketchum family arriving at the base with so many trainers and spectators already present. There were lifts taking people up and down the mountain to visit the various venues aside from the stadiums.
"Ugh…" Erika groaned as she rubbed her arms, shivering a little, "I don't remember it being this cold…" she grumbled with a sniffle.
"It's probably because the fall weather's starting to kick in," Leslie noted as she walked up to her little sister's side, dressed in her green sundress with a white shawl, "Though I feel fine," she pointed out. Erika pouted, puffing out her cheeks.
"Well of course you do…" she muttered, "You've got those big balloons giving you all the heat you can handle…" she mockingly noted, causing the Unova Champion Master to blush a bright red.
"For the last time, stop calling them balloons!" she shouted angrily. Calvin sighed, tipping his cap over his eyes.
"I thought they worked things out…" he grumbled as his cheeks reddened with embarrassment.
"You know those two, Calvin," his mother chimed in as she walked up to his side, "They'll always have something to bicker about," she noted with a giggle, "Anyways, I'm really excited for you and Erika," she mentioned proudly, causing him to perk up in surprise, "I know I said how scared I was for you two after what happened with the Ultra Beasts…" she recalled as she glanced away for a moment, "But I'm really proud of you both," she said. Her son's eyes sparkled before he smiled.
"Thanks, Mom," he replied gratefully, "Where's Dad, by the way?" he asked, looking around to see that Ash and Pikachu weren't around.
"Right here!" his father's voice responded, getting their attentions as they looked over to see him and Kukui approaching.
"Professor!" Erika exclaimed as she and her twin brother jogged over. The spectacled man chuckled.
"Glad you two could make it to this big ol' shindig!" he remarked, putting his hands onto his hips, "Whaddaya think?" he asked of them.
"It's pretty big…" Calvin admitted, "But I guess when Leslie competed in one of these tourneys, it was like this…" he pointed out as his older sister chuckled.
"So, how many trainers are in this whole thing?" Erika inquired curiously.
"Erika, that'zzz cheating, isn't it?" Rotom assumed as it floated beside her.
"Hey, I'm just trying to figure out how many matches we'd have up to the end!" she yelled back. Kukui chuckled at her enthusiasm, but then blinked in surprise upon noticing something. "Professor?" Erika uttered as she saw his expression change, "What's wrong?" she asked in concern.
"Didn't think he'd show up here…" Kukui said, enticing her and the others to turn around. Both trial-goers gasped in surprise to see not only Plumeria walking by, but also Guzma. Upon noticing the group, the two of them came to a stop.
"Guzma…" Calvin uttered out.
"Plumeria…" Erika said.
ENDING
Insert "Who Are You?" by PELICAN FANCLUB
Opens at Aether Paradise as Lillie is with her bedridden mother, sleeping by her side. In her dreams, she's imagining becoming a Pokémon Trainer herself, journeying through regions with her Pokémon by her side. She starts running along the pathway, excitedly smiling all the while.
Throughout her journey in her dream, she comes across many great things. She encounters amazing Pokémon, strong trainers to battle, and memorable sights. Her Pokémon of choice is a Clefairy which she happily lifts in her hands.
All of a sudden, the area around them darkens as a shadow looms over them. Lillie looks up in horror to see a giant version of Lusamine engulfed by Nihilego overhead. She cowers in fright momentarily, but then notices a bright light shining up above.
It turns out to be Solgaleo, who comes down with Calvin and Erika aboard. They both offer their hands to Lillie, who happily accepts them as she climbs onto the Sunne Pokémon. They hurry off, avoiding the giant rocks Lusamine chucks their way. One is about to strike, but it's destroyed as Gladion appears aboard Silvally, slashing it apart.
Together, they lunge up to attack the Aether Foundation president, engulfing her in a shining, golden light. Lillie opens her eyes, lifting her head. She finds her mother awake in bed, giving her a weak, yet thankful smile.
Lillie smiles back, gripping her hand tightly. As Wicke wanders in to check on them, they turn on the TV as the Alola League is starting. Lillie giggles at the sight of the Ketchum twins in battle once again, happy that they're seeing their dreams through…
END ENDING
And that concludes the prologue to the Alola League, with some special little sprinkles of knowledge included! We'll be getting into the battles themselves soon enough, so I hope you're ready! In the meantime, here's a summary to hold you over!
SUMMARY
The Lanakila Conference is underway! With the league finally starting, can either Calvin or Erika claim the top spot out of the 512 trainers present?!
END SUMMARY
We'll be back for the 70th chapter soon! Until then, thanks for reading!