Well, here it is, the twenty-second part of the fifth and final installment in my 'Heart' series on the right day as promised. Ash and Dawn have officially arrived in Alola and at the Pokémon School run by Professor Kukui so it's time to settle in and do a little learning about the Alola region. A nice, relaxing ease into things and an understanding of what makes Alola special, and maybe a surprise or two. That is all the administrative stuff I have for this Part and as there are no guest reviews to respond to or questions to answer I will leave this off here but do please keep your reviews coming as I love hearing from y'all. That is it for this pre-Part note which means that it is once again time to sit back which and enjoy the latest installment in Heart of Champions. Part CCXI: The Alola Region.

Disclaimer: I do not own Pokémon.

Part CCXI: The Alola Region

"Firstly let's get your Pokedexes updated." Kukui said as he led Ash and Dawn into the school and towards a part of it that was set up as his lab. "I know you probably had them updated in Kalos but this is just to make sure that they are fully compatible with the latest information we have here. There are certain Pokémon phenomenon that only occur in Alola so it is best to get the updates directly from an Alolan source."

"We did but that's a good idea regardless." Dawn said as the students and Samson branched off to set up the classroom for a brief lesson leaving Ash and Dawn with Kukui. "It's probably going to be more accurate if we do it here anyway."

"We'll likely do the same when we reach Galar." Ash said intrigued by this Pokémon phenomenon that Kukui had mentioned but opting not to address it just yet. "They will scan and tell us about a Pokémon native to Alola or Galar but this way we know there won't be an issue."

Kukui nodded at that, it was the smart move as while a Pokedex that was updated anywhere would provide the needed date, the regions themselves may have some finer details about the Pokémon considered native to their respective regions that could be critical. That was why he'd suggested this and as he had the three starters in the lab right now he could show Ash and Dawn them at the same time and get that part of the lesson out of the way early. There was likely a lot to go over with them so getting some of done now, and with the Pokémon themselves, would help.

As such they headed to the lab making idle conversation as they did with Kukui asking some general questions about their adventures and Pokémon, though he did focus a little on Dawn's Spiritomb as he'd been impressed by it when he saw it in Kalos as it was a Pokémon that hadn't ever been seen in Alola, which the teens answered as best they could. Kukui already knew a fair bit about Ash's time in Unova thanks to Iris but that was it so Ash told him a bit about his other adventures though there was so much that they'd need a lot more time to go over everything that Ash had accomplished since becoming a trainer.

This was mainly to fill the time as they headed to the lab and once there Kukui took their Pokedexes and plugged them into the system to update them to the latest Alola standard which given one of the oddities in Alola was definitely for the best. They'd keep all the data they had before, this would just add to it with the latest updates Alola had added to their native Pokémon or the Pokémon that occasionally appeared in the region. They were working on a more advanced Pokedex that wouldn't need to be updated like this but it was still in its preliminary phases so for now this would have to do.

"Right, let's make sure they work." Kukui said as he handed them back to Ash and Dawn and moved over to another part of the lab where 3 Poke Balls were set up on a table in a sight that Dawn at least found very familiar. "And what better way to test them then to introduce you to the Alolan starter Pokémon."

"Oh cool." Ash said excitedly as they both followed Kukui. "I was wondering what the other two were as we met the water starter in Kalos when we ran into Iris and the others. So far I've gotten at least one starter from a region, sometimes I've managed to get all three, so learning about them is going to be good."

"Really?" Kukui asked as he reached the first Poke Ball. "Iris said that you got all three in Unova while you were there, and that your Tepig evolved, and that you have a Charizard but that's all she said. I did see your Sceptile and Infernape on TV during your Elite Four challenge so I know about that but you're starter is Pikachu so I was curious as to how you got a Charizard."

"Yeah that's cos I overslept and missed all of the Kanto starters when I turned 10 and became a trainer." Ash admitted with a little embarrassment. "I don't regret it now though; I couldn't have asked for a better starter than Pikachu."

"Pika pi." Pikachu said with a nod from his shoulder.

"And besides I ended up catching all three during my time in Kanto with Charmander evolving fully as you mentioned." Ash said. "Then I got all three in Johto, all of which have evolved once with Chikorita evolving fully though none of them worked for my Elite Four challenge in Kalos nor did they work for my battle with Diantha. Treecko was the only Hoenn starter I caught which as you know is fully evolved now while I also caught a Turtwig in addition to the Chimchar I caught after his trainer released him in Sinnoh. Only Tepig evolved in Unova and then he evolved again during mine and Dawn's year in Kanto. Lastly, well…"

"Your Greninja is almost as famous as your Pikachu at this point so we all know that you have that fully evolved starter." Kukui said as he opened the first Poke Ball. "And on that note, here is the grass starter, Rowlet."

The ball burst open and a moment later a small, round, owl-like Pokémon with brown plumage on its body and wings, a white face and underbelly, orange feet and a small leaf on its chest like a bowtie appeared on the table in a flash of red. It blinked at Ash and Dawn and Ash had to ask as he looked at it.

"Huh, it looks like it's also a flying type." Ash said. "Is it?"

"Good eye, it is." Kukui said. "Unlike Piplup and Quaxly, that's the Paldean water starter, which are both flightless avian-based Pokémon that don't have a flying type, Rowlet does have the type as its secondary one. That said, it's final form actually changes its flying type to ghost type which is the only time a secondary type for a starter changes. Bulbasaur is the only other starter to start as a dual type being grass and poison."

"Yeah that surprised me when I learned it." Ash said as he held up his newly updated Pokedex to scan the Pokémon before him. "Now let's see what Rowlet is all about."

"Rowlet, the Grass Quill Pokémon." The Pokedex chimed as the Rowlet cocked its head as it looked at Ash. "Silently it glides, drawing near its targets. Before they even notice it, it begins to pelt them with vicious kicks."

"Sounds like an interesting Pokémon." Ash said as Kukui recalled the Rowlet and moved onto the next Pokémon. "I wouldn't mind catching one while here if the opportunity arises."

"There are a few in the wild, there always are for starters, so you may just find one if you're lucky and given your track record with starters you might just manage that." Kukui said as he picked up the second Poke Ball on the table. "Now onto the next starter new trainers here can choose from."

The Poke Ball burst open to reveal a small, quadrupedal, feline Pokémon slightly bigger than Rowlet with black fur on most of its body but for two bands of red on each leg, the lower half of its face, whiskers, and a double cross thing on its forehead. It's yellow eyes were wary and it was clearly distrusting as it looked at Ash and Dawn.

"Litten is the fire starter option here in Alola." Kukui explained though the colors on it were a solid giveaway as to which of the three types it was. "And like many other starters, it does add a type during its evolution as it adds a dark type when it evolves into its final form."

"That does seem to be pretty common." Ash said. "At least from what I've seen. If I recall, 5 of the starters I've caught have added a type later on after evolving, some on the first and some on the second evolution, while I know that Piplup, Torchic, Mudkip, Fennekin, and Chespin all do as well."

"That is true, it is more common than not for it to happen actually." Kukui said with a nod. "Only the Johto and Galar starters don't have any that add a second type while Squirtle, Treecko, Snivy, and Oshawott don't either though Sceptile will temporarily add a dragon type when it is Mega Evolved. Bulbasaur, as mentioned, is already a dual type that doesn't change and Rowlet's second type will change with its final evolution. Each of the Paldea starters add a type on their last evolution as well, those being dark, ghost, and fighting respectively."

"Fighting seems to be a common secondary type for starters it seems then as that makes 5 that add it as some point by my count." Ash said as he moved his Pokedex to Litten. "Now let's learn more about you."

"Litten, the Fire Cat Pokémon." The Pokedex chimed. "It doesn't allow its emotions to be easily seen. Earning its trust takes time. It prefers solitude."

"Sounds like a challenge for any trainer." Ash said as Kukui recalled it before setting the Poke Ball down and picking up the final one. "But the payoff is big, once a Pokémon trusts you and you trust it it's a great bond that makes you both stronger."

"That it is and now onto the last one." Kukui said as he opened that Poke Ball. "The water starter, Popplio. Given that you met Lana last year you've likely seen this one before."

The ball burst open and Ash and Dawn nodded as a sea lion-like blue Pokémon that they'd seen before appeared on the table. Lana had a Popplio so they'd seen hers when she was in Kalos with Iris and the other Alolans. In fact Serena had actually battled it with her Meowstic, that hadn't gone well for Serena as that was when Meowstic revealed that she hated battling, so they knew what it was. Still they hadn't had a chance to scan one and this time Dawn did it.

"I've gotta admit, it's a very cute Pokémon." Dawn said with a smile at the Popplio who clapped happily at that as she scanned it. "It would make a great appeals Pokémon, especially in Contests that have a pool for those who request a water appeal. I'd like to see on in the Wallace Cup in fact, it would do really well in that Contest."

"Popplio, the Sea Lion Pokémon." The Pokedex chimed as it finished scanning Popplio. "This Pokémon snorts body fluids from its nose, blowing balloons to smash into its foes. It's famous for being a hard worker."

"That is really good to know, certainly the starter I'd choose if I was from Alola." Dawn said as she quickly thumbed through the Pokedex to see its later forms her eyebrow raising at them. "Yes, this is a Pokémon that could be great in Contests and Showcases. Between appearance, proper care, and its hard work ethic it would be great to have."

Popplio clapped at that and as Dawn put away her Pokedex it suddenly leapt at her. Popplio, who was male like the vast majority of starters, had heard the praise in the girl's voice and after being rejected a few times by the last few new trainers to pass through here he decided to take matters into his own flippers.

If this human liked him and would have chosen him if she could then he'd choose her rather than be rejected again. Plus, she had what was clearly a water type on her head that looked well-groomed and pretty strong so she knew the type which was a bonus. All of this as Kukui was trying to recall him, which subsequently missed.

All Dawn could manage was a slight eep before she instinctively caught Popplio in her arms. The moment she did it nuzzled into her chest much to her surprise with a noise of contentment, and to Piplup's slight annoyance.

"Er, what's going on?" Dawn asked as she held Popplio.

"It looks like Popplio bonded with you, which honestly I should have seen coming after you said that you'd have chosen it if you were Alolan." Kukui said with a smile. "Between that, the fact that have a water starter already, and you clearly recognize its value, this Popplio would jump at that. You see it has been passed over a few times at this point so it's frustrated at being overlooked. This does happen from time to time when experienced trainers come in and meet starters, especially starters that are either curious, timid, have been rejected, or passed over like Popplio here."

"Yeah it happened to May with a Squirtle back in Kanto." Ash said recalling how she got her Squirtle. "And Oshawott liked me in Unova so much that he followed me to the next town so when Professor Juniper learned that she realized he wanted to join me so sent his Poke Ball to me. Plus Greninja chose me as a Froakie when we first showed up in Kalos."

"Huh, I guess I was kinda due this then." Dawn said surprised as she looked at Kukui. "Does this mean…"

"That you should take this Popplio, it does." Kukui said with a smile. "It's already bonded with you by choosing you like this and I think it's time it goes to a good trainer. Treat it well Dawn."

"I will." Dawn said with a nod still a little startled by what was going on as Kukui handed her Popplio's Poke Ball so she looked at it as she held the Poke Ball. "Um, we can get to know each other better in a bit Popplio but can you go back into your Poke Ball until then? I've just got to this region and want to learn a little first. I promise that I'll let you out at dinner."

"Popplio." Popplio said with a nod thrilled that the girl had accepted him before looking up at Piplup and smirking at him, that spot would be his one day but Piplup just puffed his chest as he looked down, no one was taking his spot, he was Dawn's starter after all so this other water starter was no threat to him. "Pop, Popplio."

"Great then return." Dawn said as she recalled Popplio and looked at the Poke Ball in her hand. "That was certainly one of the stranger additions to my team though having been travelling with Ash for so long it really shouldn't be that odd."

"It does happen though interesting that you've only seen it with water starters." Kukui said as Dawn put her new Pokémon away, right now she only had Piplup on her doing the same as Ash though she was going to bring in a few for the Contest, or Arceus forbid Contests, that she entered. "There might be something to that."

"Perhaps or it could just be coincidence." Ash said. "This is only the fourth time it's happened in my journeys after all."

"Perhaps but I'll make a note of this." Kukui said. "Now, if you two would follow me let's head to the classroom where we can explain more about Alola to you two."

"Sounds good." Ash said as they left the lab.

"Er I do have one question as we walk." Dawn said and Kukui nodded at her to continue. "You didn't mention Popplio as a starter that doesn't add a type so it must add one at some point. Likely Lana told us last year but if she did then I forget and I only checked the next appearances but what does it add?"

"Ah that, that's the one that really surprised us." Kukui said as they walked. "See, we didn't actually think Popplio added a type because until recently it didn't but, well, turns out it now does and I know you know what that means."

"Fairy." Dawn said right away as something jogged in her mind. "Yes, I remember now. Primarina, Popplio's last form adds the type. It was one of the first to confirm that in addition to the change for some whole lines, Eevee's normal type evolution, or non-evolving Pokémon, some add it as well."

"Correct though so far the few that do add a fairy type upon evolving have been limited to the Alola and Galar regions though Ash did help prove that Mega Evolutions can change to it as well when he fought Drasna's Mega Altaria." Kukui said as they climbed to a higher level in the school. "Primarina was one of the earliest to be confirmed to add a fairy after evolution and that was before Lana's evolved fully. If you want to see one ask her."

"I will, I am sure that she will have a lot of tips for me." Dawn said as they reached the classroom. "But I'll save that for later as now let's learn more about this region."

Kukui nodded again and led them into a large classroom with a wooden floor and several individual desks well-spaced in it facing the wall by the entrance. As Ash and Dawn walked in they noticed that there was a large chalk board on the wall the desks faced and a smaller one to the side along with some tables and decorations on the walls.

Iris and the others were all at desks now so Ash and Dawn quickly took the two free ones at the back that had been set up for them as Kukui joined Samson at the chalkboard. It was a learning situation so they were being efficient and respectful.

"Right, let's start with understanding what you two do know about Alola." Kukui said as Ash and Dawn took their seats. "What have you learned either from the Festival the kids did in Kalos or other sources before you came here."

"As a general overview we know about regional forms, that there are powerful moves here called Z-Moves and that there are 4 islands each with a deity for them that has a two part name starting with Tapu." Dawn said. "We learned about the layout of the region from the Festival, regional forms while we in Kanto, that was our first encounter with anything from Alola, and the middle we saw when Ash and Kiawe had a battle but don't know the details of it or how they work."

"It was so cool though so I do want to learn more about what Z-Moves are and how I can use them." Ash said. "If there is anything I want to be able to take from my visit to Alola it's that."

"Alright, we'll address those in a bit and I'll actually tell you how you can get what you need there when we address it as you will have a chance to manage that." Kukui said. "And you know the general region so I'll leave that and the island deities out, they are a different topic entirely and we don't really have the time to get into them in a general overview in addition to everything else. There is one thing you haven't been informed about it seems, and something that is solely unique to Alola but we'll get into that last as it's best saved for then."

"Sounds good to me." Ash said and Dawn nodded as well. "Where do you want to start?"

"Let's start with regional forms as you know a bit about them so we can go over them quickly." Kukui said. "I am curious, how did you learn of them in Kanto? I know that our regional forms are solely ones of Kanto origin Pokémon, unlike in Galar and Paldea which have regional forms of Pokémon native to other regions in addition to Kanto, some of which have unique or additional evolutions or evolve while their counterparts from other regions don't. We don't have unique evolutions in Alola with the regional variants we have here but we do have evolutions that can only occur here in Alola though their first stage isn't a regional form."

"Oh it was from one of those evolution ones that we learned about Alolan regional forms." Ash said surprising Kukui even more but he was already explaining before the Professor could ask about it. "See, back when I was preparing to re-enter the Indigo Conference I challenged all 8 Kanto Gym Leaders to full battles. 7 accepted and in the 7th battle against the fire type Gym Leader Blaine on Cinnabar Island he used a Marowak that was unlike any I'd seen before and was a fire and ghost type. He explained it was an Alolan variant that happens when a Cubone, no matter where it is from, evolves in the Alola region."

"We also know that Iris caught and Exeggcute in Kanto while she was there with the sole desire to evolved it in Alola where it becomes a grass and dragon type." Dawn added looking to Iris. "It was a major factor in why she came here so I presume you managed that."

"You bet and you'll see him soon enough." Iris said with a grin. "But I can't bring him out indoors and you'll see why when I do."

"Looking forward to it." Dawn said with a smile.

"I see, I recall Blaine's visit so that doesn't surprise me if you faced him." Kukui said thinking on it and deciding not to ruin what was clearly Iris's planned surprise with her Exeggutor. "Very well, there is one more evolution variant, Raichu."

"Pikachu?" Pikachu asked surprised which Ash agreed with.

"There's a regional Raichu?" Ash asked. "That I didn't know about."

"Yes, as with Exeggcute it is the same requirement though a Thunder not a Leaf Stone but if a Pikachu uses one in Alola it evolves into an Alolan Raichu even if that Pikachu is not originally from or hatched in Alola, same for if it started as a Pichu." Kukui said. "Also like Exeggcute, and unlike Cubone, the evolution keeps the primary type but rather than change as Exeggcute does it adds one. In Raichu's case it's a psychic type."

"Interesting, I've never encountered an electric and psychic type so hopefully I get to meet one at least." Ash said. "Though Pikachu doesn't want to evolve so it won't be mine. Still, he's beaten a few Raichus so we'd love the chance to beat an Alolan Raichu as well."

"Pikachu." Pikachu confirmed.

"That is perfectly fair and I'm sure you will at least see one as Pikachus are a popular Pokémon here." Kukui said though they already knew that. "As for the other regional forms we have, they are full evolutionary lines and are Rattata, Sandshrew, Vulpix, Diglett, Meowth, Geodude and Grimer's lines."

"I presume they aren't the same types as what we'd know." Dawn said. "So far that seems to be the case and we saw Lillie's Vulpix in Kalos, and that was the Pokémon that hatched from the egg my friend Emily won, so we know that it's an ice and not a fire type."

"Correct they all either have an additional type they don't normally have or are a new type or types entirely." Kukui said with a nod. "And with the exception of Ninetales, which adds a fairy to its ice type upon evolution, the changed types are consistent throughout. For Rattata and Raticate they have a dark type in addition to their normal type. Sandshrew and Sandslash are ice and steel types. Diglett and Dugtrio add steel to their ground type. Meowth and Persian are dark types her. Geodude, Graveler and Golem add an electric type to their rock type. Lastly Grimer and Muk are dark and poison types rather than just poison types."

"So some are similar in that they keep one of the types that we'd know but either add or change a type while others are totally different." Ash said understanding. "And some of those combos I've never heard of before so they'll be cool to see."

"Some are unique indeed." Kukui said. "Well, as far as I know at least."

"Why are they different though?" Dawn asked. "I've seen many of those Pokémon in other regions and they aren't different there. Even the ones in Kalos, which isn't near the other four weren't different. Unova doesn't really have Pokémon from the regions Ash and I are from other than in one area so it's a little different there."

"You're from Sinnoh, right Dawn?" Kukui asked. "Piplup is a strong giveaway but I just want to confirm."

"I am." Dawn said. "And I understand, we know people in Kalos who had Kanto starters so it can be confusing."

"Then you are aware of the differences between Shellos and Gastrodon depending on whether they are from the East or West Sea." Kukui said. "They are the same type but look very different if I recall."

"Yeah I know that well." Dawn said. "My best friend Zoey has one and I think Ash's rival Paul has the other kind. They were split by Mt. Coronet and the mountain range that comes from it and thus environmentally evolved different as there are no passes that that Pokémon can uses to get through the ridge back before humans made them."

"Precisely, that is the same here only on a deeper environmental scale." Samson said taking over. "This is actually my personal area of study, it helps that Samuel is in Kanto and all our regional forms are of Kanto Pokémon, so I know the theory well. It is believed that millennia ago those Pokémon ended up in Alola from Kanto, we don't know how, and over the time they were here they adapted to Alola's drastically different climate. So, to survive in Alola they environmentally evolved to fit the region thus resulting in different appearances and types. It is the same general theory used in Galar and Paldea only in those regions there are actually different evolved forms, likely for the same reason."

"Kalos's climate and environment isn't drastically different from regions like Kanto and Sinnoh so there wasn't a change there." Kukui added. "Alola's very isolated and tropical for the most part so we're very different to other regions. Galar and Paldea have their own respective differences though I think there's some other theory regarding Galarian Weezing though I don't know that."

"Woah that's really cool." Ash said. "I've got to try and get a regional form from here or Galar at some point this year. Same for Paldea if we ever go there."

"They are around but while we are on this subject." Kukui said. "Augustine said that you have a portable transfer machine, Ash. If you have a Kanto form of any of the Pokémon I mention we'd love to see it. I know that the class saw Dawn's Vulpix in Kalos but if you have a different one that would be great as Samson and I haven't had the chance to take the kids to Kanto to show them the regional forms there."

"I do." Ash confirmed and he pulled out the transfer machine from his bag and opened it to sort it out. "In fact the last time is used this thing was for that very Pokémon. I don't use it much in battle, hence why it was the test Pokémon for this things, but I do have one."

At that Ash sorted it out and turned it on and just called in the Pokémon that he'd last called in with it, well the only one he'd ever called in with it in fact. A moment later a Poke Ball appeared in it and Ash pulled it out before standing up and pointing it at the ground in front of him. Given who it was and what was about to happen it was for the best that he do this while standing.

"Come on out." Ash said as he opened the ball. "Muk."

There was a flash of red and a moment later Ash's Muk appeared before him. Almost immediately it gave a happy cry and leapt on him in a Muk hug that floored Ash despite the fact that he was ready for it.

"Interesting." Sophocles said looking at it. "It's entirely purple and not multicolored like ours. If I didn't know already I would have presumed that it was a pure poison type indeed."

"That it is." Samson said as they all watched Muk hug Ash as he was smothered by the sentient poisonous pile of sludge. "If you have time another day, Ash, I'd love to get to know your Muk better. I've seen it a few times when calling Samuel so I was aware of its nature due to it interpreting several calls I just didn't realize it was yours."

"Sure." Ash said as he recalled Muk and groaned on the ground. "Just be ready for this."

"That is certainly an affectionate Pokémon." Kukui said as the class chuckled at the sight. "And it doesn't smell which is interesting."

"Muk's always been like this ever since I caught it." Ash said as he got up and took his seat. "It was back in my first year in Kanto, Brock, Misty, and I were traveling through Gringey City during a power failure that had been caused when a bunch of Grimers led by Muk had overrun a local power plant. It ordered its Grimers to attack us but the Magnemite and Magneton in the city drove them away but not Muk. It took Pikachu and a Magnemite to beat it and I decided to catch it but its smell was so bad back then that I sent it right to Professor Oak though its lost its smell. Now Muk's become very affectionate to anyone."

"I can attest to that; he hugged me the first time I saw him in Kanto." Dawn said as Piplup nodded from where he was now sitting on the desk in front. "Quite the surprise indeed."

"Fascinating." Samson said. "And if I may ask, has your Vulpix evolved? I would love to show the class a Kanto Ninetales, they are rather majestic Pokémon."

"He has." Dawn confirmed. "Shortly after we ran into Iris and the others in fact. I don't have Ninetales on me right now, he's back in Kalos as I only came to Alola with Piplup just in case I caught anything new while I was here, didn't expect to already manage that, and as he just won me my Contest in Kalos he's taking a break at Ash's place in Kalos. I'll bring in some other Pokémon for the next Contest but I can also bring in Ninetales as well."

"Thank you, I appreciate that." Samson said.

"That does explain the ease of early." Kukui said. "Well you will get that chance to enter a Contest soon enough and that actually segways me onto the next thing to cover pretty well."

"It does?" Dawn asked confused.

"Yes because a little additional benefit to wining an Alolan Contest is that the winner is awarded a Z-Crystal of his or her choice." Kukui said. "Z-Moves are still banned from Contests due to the fact that the international Contest Committee has yet to fully figure out how to incorporate their power into Contests due to what is needed to harness them, with one exception. However, because they can only be found in Alola, winners of Contests get to choose a Z-Crystal when they win one."

"Wait, those are the things needed to make Z-Moves work, right?" Dawn asked.

"They are one of two components the other being the Z-Ring." Kukui said holding up his left wrist to show a silver band on it with red diamond shaped crystal in it. "This is a Z-Ring with a Z-Crystal in it. This is actually a specialized Z-Crystal for an Incineroar which is one of two types of Z-Crystal that can be found here. Winning a Contest only gets you a general one that will work on a move of the corresponding type, and yes we have recently discovered Fairium Z for fairy type moves. That is the name for a type Z-Crystal while the specific ones which are named after the species of Pokémon they are for and can only be used with specific moves. A standard Z-Crystal works for any move of that type turning it into a powerful move."

"I remember." Ash said. "Kiawe used one for his Turtonator if I recall."

"That was my Firium Z, it turns a fire type move into Inferno Overdrive." Kiawe said. "And yet your Mega Charizard took it with ease and then beat me with a powerful Dragon Tail that I will never forget."

"Charizard is one of my best." Ash said. "Though that was one of three times we caused massive damage in Kalos, we really need to work on that."

"I'm still a little confused." Dawn admitted. "So winning a Contest gets me a Z-Crystal but not a Z-Ring?"

"Correct and there are two reasons for that." Kukui said. "While you need a Z-Ring or a Z-Power Ring to use one they're not a common item so they are only given to people who either beat an Island Challenge, our version of a Gym Battle or to someone who's earned it another way, well that or you could inherit it from someone in your family. For coordinators it is to those who make the Wildcard event at least and if you compete in the Wildcard then you're encouraged to do the other thing that is needed to make Z-Moves work."

"And that is?" Dawn asked. "I may not get a Z-Ring while here but if I return I'll want to go for one."

"I recommend it and when you do you will have to win an Island Challenge." Kukui said. "I've theorized that only those who win an Island Challenge can use a Z-Move, which is another reason why they can't be used in Contests. However, I did mention an exception and that is for the single move appeal in the first appeal of the Wildcard event. Then Z-Moves are allowed as the appeal move hence why someone who's made the Wildcard and doesn't wish to go for the full qualification requirement will participate in an Island Challenge to ensure that he or she can use a Z-Move. When the Wildcard is phased out at the end of the expansion period the Z-Move allowance will be moved to the first appeal of the Grand Festival."

"Huh, that makes sense actually and is a great place for a move like that." Dawn said. "I can even see it being allowed in other Grand Festivals which would be great for Alola. Well, I may not be able to use it but I'll do some research on this and decide what Z-Crystal to select when I win and what I want to do about a Z-Ring."

"A good plan." Kukui said.

"Ah man, I want to use Z-Moves." Ash said. "But I don't think I have time for an Island Challenge while here."

"Sorry but we do have to focus on my Contests." Dawn said apologetically. "You could enter a Contest to get a Z-Crystal at least."

"No it's fine." Ash said. "They are more important and I don't really see the need to enter one other than the Wallace Cup now that I'm a regional Champion. I'd only get in your way Dawn."

"Actually, Ash, you're in a different boat to Dawn and can actually get all you need while here." Kukui said surprising him and Dawn. "See, you're going to be facing the Alola Champion in Manalo Stadium, that is effectively an artificial Island Challenge so if you win you should be able to use Z-Moves. In addition, as part of the incentive for you to win your battle with Gladion you will be awarded a Z-Ring and three Z-Crystals, one of each of the Pokémon you use, should you defeat Gladion. He gets the same Z-Crystal reward should he win though he does have a Z-Ring already. Seeing as you have a Key Stone that balances that out nicely."

"Really?" Ash asked and Kukui nodded which made Ash grin even more. "Then I'm really looking forward to this challenge now."

"We all can't wait to watch it." Iris said. "Gladion is good but he's never faced a trainer like you, Ash. I'm rooting for you especially because Gladion beat me in the final last year so I was almost Alola Champion."

"My brother will give it his all though." Lillie added. "He's been eager for a challenge like this since becoming the Alola Champion so don't let him down."

"Then I will strive to not disappoint anyone." Ash said already thinking on and deciding two of the three Z-Crystals he was going to select when he won. "I'm fully ready for that."

"The region is looking forward to this as well but they'll have to wait a few more weeks." Kukui said. "Anyway that is the general overview of Z-Moves and Z-Crystals. Basically they are powerful upgrade moves that either correspond with a move type if it is a generic crystal or a specific move for the specific Z-Crystals. Just so you know, Ash, there are two specific ones for Pikachu, one will only work if Pikachu knows Volt Tackle, the other will only work if he knows Thunderbolt. Both have been made available for you to choose should you beat Gladion."

"Woah that changes things." Ash admitted as he rethought which Z-Crystals he should select if he won. "The latter I can use, Pikachu's favorite move is Thunderbolt."

"Pikachu." Pikachu said with a nod.

"But he forgot Volt Tackle early in our Unova journey after he learned Electro Ball which he's now forgotten after learning Electroweb." Ash continued. "So that's out. Still, good to know that I have that option."

"How many specific ones are there?" Dawn asked.

"As of right now we know of 10 specific Z-Crystals that can be used for 9 Pokémon including one for each of the Alola starters' final evolved forms." Kukui said which peaked Dawn's interest as she may end up with that down the road. "But that is not counting ones for mythical or legendary Pokémon like the island deities as those are harder to study so we've not yet confirmed that. It is the same issue that Augustine has with Mega Evolution. We both believe that they exist in our respective fields of study though we just need to confirm it."

"That makes sense." Dawn said. "Thank you. This is certainly interesting to know."

"Of course, I'll provide more information later as this is just an overview of a phenomenon only manageable in Alola though once you can use a Z-Move it can be used outside of Alola as Kiawe showed in Kalos." Kukui said. "And that just leaves the final thing to cover. You won't encounter them, well you likely won't, but you should know about them just in case there's a call to deal with one."

"One?" Ash asked confused.

"An Ultra Beast." Kukui said with a glance at Lillie.

"What's an Ultra Beast?" Ash asked, not noticing the glance though Lillie had long overcome her fear that stemmed from being attacked by an Ultra Beast as a child so she could manage this with ease. "I've never heard of that term. Are they some kind of special Pokémon?"

"That is exactly what they are as they are a group of extradimensional Pokémon that originate from Ultra Space and which appear in Alola from time to time." Kukui said. "Ultra Space is an interdimensional realm. For whatever reason, this is not my area of expertise but that of the Aether Foundation, they come to Alola via Ultra Wormholes which are unstable portals that connect our world to Ultra Space. Through them an Ultra Beast comes though it is infrequent."

"What happens when they appear?" Ash asked.

"They cause a lot of havoc and are a danger to the Alola region so they have to be dealt with as soon as they appear." Kukui said. "My wife is a professor for the Aether Foundation so she understands this better but as a result of their appearances the Foundation formed a unit called the Ultra Guardians who are tasked with using special Beast Balls, balls specifically designed to catch Ultra Beasts as normal Poke Balls don't work on them, and then release them back to their world through the wormhole they came through so that they can return home and not cause problems in Alola."

"Ultra Guardians?" Dawn asked.

"Us." Iris said happily. "Part of being at the school is that everyone in this class is an Ultra Guardian so we go out and deal with Ultra Beasts when they appear. We even get cool uniforms to wear when we are called out to deal with one. We can't keep them though which is a shame as some are dragon types, including a poison and dragon type that would be great against that type that shall not be named, but it's to help Alola so we don't mind."

"Oh cool." Ash said. "So like a hero force."

"Of sorts." Kukui said. "If there is an incident you two can come along, you're skilled enough for it and it will be a good thing to see, but we don't expect that while you're here. However, you should know about it just in case one appears in the next few weeks."

"It is certainly good to know." Dawn agreed but before she could say anything Ash's stomach suddenly roared. "But, er, I think Ash is hungry so we might want to end the lesson."

"Yeah all this learning is making me hungry." Ash admitted. "And we've not eaten since the plane."

"Right, well then let's wrap up the lesson here." Kukui said. "It's about time for dinner anyway and you two have had a long day so let's all have dinner and share stories before heading to bed and don't worry we've set up a room for you two while you're in this part of Alola so you can stay here. Tomorrow Iris and the others can take you to Hau'oli City, the latest Contest should be posted there and there are some fun activities you should enjoy there while here."

"And have battles." Kiawe said. "I want to face Ash again."

"Same." Sophocles added.

"Works for me." Ash said with a grin. "I could use a little warmup for your Champion."

"And we can go into town to find out where the Contest will be and do some shopping just us girls." Mallow said. "Then we meetup after lunch for some fun activities you have to try."

"Sounds like a good plan." Dawn said with a smile. "We do want to maximize out time here."

"Come on Ash, the food here is great and I won't lose this time." Iris said. "You won the last round but this one is mine."

"Bring it on." Ash said as he got up while Dawn sighed. "I have no intention of losing."

"I still can't believe someone can eat more than Iris." Lana said as they all got up and headed to the dinning room. "It's both impressive and disturbing at the same time."

"You get used to it after a while." Dawn said as they walked. "Anyway, Lana, I, er, just ended up with a Popplio that bonded with me when Professor Kukui showed is the Alolan starters so could you give me some tips on raising and grooming one. It's a little different to the other water type I have."

"Hold up, what?" Iris asked turning to Dawn and walking backwards. "It bonded with you? I knew you'd see the starters but I wasn't expecting it to pull an Oshawott. Well almost an Oshawott, he didn't go to Ash right away just followed him."

"Yeah I was as surprised as anyone." Dawn said. "But thankfully Lana's raised one to its final form so I want to learn more."

"Gah don't remind me of it, Lana always uses Primarina against me." Iris said turning back. "Damned added fairy type making it immune to several attacks."

"She does need to get over that but it is useful." Lana said. "But of course I can help Dawn. You're going to help with Contest stuff so this is the least I could do and I also have an Eevee who's called Sandy so any help there would be appreciated as I know you have an Espeon as well. What do you want to know?"

"Well for starters…" Dawn began.

At that Dawn began asking the questions she had about Popplio raising and Lana answered them as best she could. At the same time she asking some questions about Contest grooming in general and Eevee care in particular as they walked to get food before retiring for the night.

Overall it had been a long but good first day in Alola. They'd learned a fair bit about the region and unique things in it and Dawn had even gotten her first Pokémon much to her surprise. With a start like this Ash and Dawn couldn't wait to see what else was in store for them in their Alolan adventure.

Well Ash and Dawn now have an overview of the Alola region's uniqueness, Dawn has her first new Pokémon of Champions and follows the same path as others with a water starter and her first new starter Pokémon, and Ash and Dawn know what needs to be done to get Z-Crystals and in Ash's case a Z-Ring. Naturally these are very different for Ash to the anime but such is the nature of Champions. One thing to note to anyone wondering, unlike with how May played a role in the events of XY, Iris did not play a role in the events of SM and those did not happen. I do have plans for that general plot, adapted to fit the needs, but that will be the core of one of the eventual sequel trilogy stories, the one set in Alola. For now, presume that the events of SM in that regard did not happen. Otherwise there isn't much more needed, this was a standard Part that helped introduce Ash and Dawn to the new region they are in and set up for the short adventure to come. That is all that I have for y'all so I will leave this Part off here. As always if you like my work then please favorite (both this story and me in general to be notified of any new content I post), if possible leave a review as I really like hearing what you think of my work and your suggestions that help complete this story (and respond as best I can) and just in general keep enjoying my work. Until next time.

Stringdog