Chapter Two: The Trial

.

.

.

Akari steps out of the Galaxy Hall, the bright sunlight warming her skin. It felt great. Oshawott is also enjoying himself. As for the villagers, they seemed intent on ignoring her now, avoiding eye contact as they rushed past her. Only Beni paid her any heed, glaring at her from the canteen as he served several people breakfast. She forces herself to ignore it all. It's not like saying anything will do her any good anyway.

Akari takes note of the village as she walks down the street, heading in the direction she was instructed. She hasn't traveled to this section of the village yet, and she takes note of the various shops that line the road. There is a general goods store, a hairdresser, a clothing shop, and even a photo parlor. It's a rather nice set up.

As she gets closer to the gate, she notices Lucas standing next to it with another person. They appear to be in deep conversation, only noticing her once she is close enough to hear what they are saying. It appears that she is their topic of choice. Figures.

The unknown man speaking to Lucas turns to face Akari. She can feel her heart flutter. This man must be Cynthia's ancestor, there's no mistaking it. He even wore his bangs in the same style as the former campion. "Oh?" He begins with a bright smile. "What a curious getup you have there. I can already tell you're quite the character."

Akari represses a sigh. Again, she's forced to listen to someone comment about her state of dress. As soon as she has the money, she's going to visit that clothing store she saw on the way here. This is getting ridiculous.

Rei smiles. "This is Akari," he introduces kindly.

Akari bows respectively. "Pleased to mee you."

The man inclines his head. "I'm Volo of the Ginko Guild, the go-to choice for any of your mercantile needs here in Hisui."

'Ah, so he's a merchant,' Akari thinks. 'That would explain his bright outfit and large bag he carries on his back.'

Volo is examining Akari curiously. "I've heard talk about you; fell from the sky, didn't you?" Unlike everyone else, he didn't seem to doubt the claim. Akari finds that strange, especially when she hears him whisper to himself, "Now that's certainly a tale I'd like to hear."

Akari feels like something is off, but she doesn't comment on it. She doesn't know Volo well enough to make any judgments. He might just be a strange one.

Oshawott seems to notice her discomfort, placing a tiny paw on her bare leg. Akari looks down at him with a smile. He had followed her all the way here, sticking close to her the whole time.

Volo is surprised. "Oh, and you've a Pokémon! You're certainly full of interesting surprises."

Akari says, "He's a gift from Professor Laventon." She can feel the change in the air. It's one she's felt many times before. Volo's about to challenge her to a Pokémon battle.

Volo's smile grows. "I see," he says. "Well, investigating the odd and novel is key to any good merchant's success." He then glances at Oshawott for a moment, as if sizing him up. Volo then looks back at Akari. "So, what do you say? How about you and I see how our Pokémon stand up to one another in battle?"

Akari called it. She's been challenged too many times to not notice that spark in someone's eye. "If Oshawott's up for it, then so am I." She looks at her Pokémon. "You want to do this?" Oshawott nods as he cries out in excitement. Akari can see the determination in his eyes. "Looks like we accept."

Rei has a look of pure surprise on his face. "Wow, you actually asked your Pokémon if he wanted to battle." He looks stupefied. "You really gave him a choice. I've never seen anyone do that before."

Volo says, "It's honorable if you ask me." He turns to look at Rei. "Akari truly respects her Pokémon." He turns his attention back to Akari. "This will only make you stronger as your Pokémon will never doubt you."

"It's only right," Akari states. "Like people, Pokémon have their preferences, and some don't like to battle while others can't get enough. I won't force Oshawott to do something he's opposed to."

Rei is now silent, appearing to think deeply about what Akari has said. As for Volo, there's a gleam in his eye that wasn't there before she spoke. He suddenly seems to be way too interested in her. It's a little unnerving, but it's gone as quickly as it came. Volo says, "I've also heard about this trial you're to attempt. A quick battle to get your blood pumping will do you good."

Akari can now sense that Volo has hidden intentions. He wants to test her strength, but it's not simply about sport. There's something else he desires from her. The problem is, she can't figure out what that is. She's barely been in Hisui for twenty-four hours. What could be possibly want from her?

Akari is forced to dismiss her internal musings. She has a battle to focus on. "You're on," she says, her tone full of determination. It's been a very long time since she's battled with an untrained Pokémon that she'd just obtained.

Volo tosses out a Pokéball, summoning a little Togepi. It appears to be a female from the looks of it. She's cute but a little shy. Oshawott moves to stand before Akari, clearly ready to do battle. The two Pokémon glare heatedly at one another.

"One on one," Volo states. "First one who can't battle loses. Sound fair?"

"Absolutely." Akari nods. It's standard battle rules after all.

"Then let's start," Volo says, his own competitive nature taking over. "Togepi, tackle, now." He doesn't waste any time, hoping to catch Akari a little off balance. It doesn't work. She's ready for him.

"Oshawott!" Akari calls. "Dodge and counter with you own tackle." She's already formulating a plan in her head, but she wants to see how fast this little girl is first.

Oshawott doesn't hesitate, already jumping into action. Volo orders Togepi to dodge, and the little egg Pokémon moves with unexpected speed. Akari has never seen one move that quickly. This Togepi will be a tough one to beat once she's fully evolved into Togekiss. However, right now, Akari can slow her down with a little trick she learned a long time ago. "Oshawott, use your water gun on the ground. I want you to soak it as much as you can."

Volo is intrigued. Rei as well.

Oshawott is quick to respond, spraying the ground until it becomes muddy.

Volo is unconcerned. "Togepi, tackle again."

Akari smirks. It's all coming together. "Oshawott, dodge once more then hit her with your own tackle."

Oshawott moves, and as expected, Volo commands another dodge. The slick ground slips under Togepi's feet due to her previous momentum, causing her to falter at the loss of traction. Oshawott slams into her hard, sending her right into the ground, HARD!

"Nice hit!" Akari praises. "Now, tackle again."

"Togepi!" Volo sounds alarmed. The little Pokémon is still slipping, unable to stand in time. Oshawott slams into her once again, sending her rolling. She comes to a rough stop near Volo's feet. The poor thing is trembling slightly. "That's enough," Volo states sternly. "I can see we have lost this battle. There's no need to continue beating my little Togepi into the ground."

Togepi looks up at her trainer, tears forming in the corners of her eyes. She's ashamed to have lost so easily. Volo smiles reassuringly as he kneels. He pets her gently on the head. "Don't fret about our loss. You've done well today." He recalls her.

Volo stands back up. "Moves, items," He begins. "Use them well, and the world will open up to you." It was his roundabout way of congratulating Akari's victory.

"Yes!" Rei agrees. "Akari certainly used Oshawott's moves like a master!"

"I agree," Volo says. "It's always good fun to have your Pokémon do battle, don't you think?" This question seems to be aimed at both Rei and Akari. "They gain experience though battle; they'll learn more moves and grow even stronger."

Rei nods. "For sure," he agrees. "I should practice way more. As it stands right now, I don't think I could compete with either of you in a battle right now."

Akari looks at Rei. "You'll get there." She's trying to be encouraging. He smiles back with a thumbs up.

Volo nods. "I believe you have more passion and talent for Pokémon than you think, Rei. I must admit, it's a trait that's seriously lacking here within Jubilife village." Volo is looking at the various people roaming the busy main street. "So, few people here have their own Pokémon. If only more knew how to use Pokéballs."

Akari doubts that's the real issue behind the lack of Pokémon in Jubilife Village. There's something else going on here, she's just uncertain as to what it is.

"Ah, well." Volo dismissed his inner musings. He looks at Akari, a pleasant smile on his face. "To you, my sky-fallen friend, I present some potions in thanks."

Akari takes the potions, examining them. They're nothing like the potions she's used to using in modern times. She puts them away before bowing in gratitude. "Thank you." It was a very generous gift after all. Volo could have sold them for profit.

Volo shakes his head. "There's really no need to thank me. Just use them on your Pokémon whenever they might be worn out from battle."

"I will." Akari bows again in thankfulness.

Volo turns to look at the sky. He frowns. "My, it's already after nine."

Akari turns to follow Volo's line of sight. He's looking at the sun's position in the sky, not a clock tower like she'd expected. Telling time this way is an amazing skill, one that Akari is certain she's going to need to learn in this old-world land.

Volo returns his attention to his companions. "Alas, I must leave now. I've lingered for much too long." He bows respectfully, before turning towards the gate. "Goodbye, Akari. Rei." Then he simply leaves without another word to them. Akari found it odd…

Rei lets out a long sigh. "He's always so abrupt when he decides to leave. It feels kind of rude."

Akari shrugs. "Maybe a little."

Rei looks towards Akari. "Well, anyway, if you can battle that well, I've got a feeling you may have your trail well in hand – even if it's more to do with catching than battling." He offers her a bright smile of encouragement. It is obvious he still doubts her even though saying the opposite.

"I'm not worried," Akari says. She knows she's got this.

"That's great!" Rei says. He turns towards the gate, announcing, "Now, to the Obsidian Fieldlands!"

The guardsman at the gate clears his throat very loudly. He's attempting to get Rei's attention.

Rei blushes, seemingly embarrassed. "I'm sorry!" He bows at the guardsman. "I'll tell her now."

The guardsman looks stern. "See that you do."

There's still a slight blush on Rei's cheeks when addresses Akari. "Whenever you leave Jubilife Village, you must pick a destination from the map. You then let Russ the guardsman know where you're off to. This way, if anything happens, the village has documentation of where to look for you."

"That's right," Russ agrees. "It's very important I know where you're headed. I can't send someone to collect you if things go wrong otherwise."

Rei nods in agreement. "This is a super important rule we all must follow. It has saved several lives already, although, today technically, Russ already knows where we're going."

"Indeed, I do," Russ states. "I was informed you'd be passing through earlier this morning. As you know, your trial will take place outside the safety of the village. Please take care to come back alive." He then returns to keeping a sharp eye out for travelers and invasive Pokémon.

"Well," Ray says. "We should get going already. Russ already has us marked for departure."

"Lead the way." Akari moves to follow Rei out of Jubilife Village. She never noticed the sharp gaze of a Pokémon perched on top of a building nearby. He had watched the battle and was curious. The Pokémon takes flight, deciding to follow the unsuspecting humans from the sky.

.

.

.

The hike to the Fieldlands Camp wasn't that far from Jubilife Village, perhaps a couple of miles if that. Akari had recalled Oshawott to help him conserve energy. It's been a while but catching a Shinx is a little difficult due to their spicy attitudes. They like to put up a strong fight, and since Oshawott will have the type disadvantage, she figured it was best for him to rest for now.

Rei had led her the whole way to the camp, always watching the tree line with slightly wily eyes as he did so. It looked as if he expected the bogie man to jump out and attack, but she knew he's just simply watching for wild Pokémon. This amount of fear is heart breaking, and Rei has his own Pokémon with him. For the common villager, this hike must be terrifying.

The Fieldlands Camp comes into view. There is a little makeshift tent, a storage trunk, a fire for cooking, and a single guard. He turns towards them as they approach. "Rei, it's good to see you."

"You too," Rei says. "I've brought Akari for her trail."

The guard nods. "I was informed not long ago." He looks towards Akari. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm in charge of protecting the Fieldlands Camp. I keep wild Pokémon at bay while people rest."

"That's right," Rei says. "These camps are where we start and finish all our surveys. It's important to note that before heading out, you'll always need to speak to the posted guard, telling them when you expect to return. This way, if something happens, they know to come to look for you."

The sentry nods. "That's right. It's also the reason you should always return by the allotted time. If you don't, a search team will be dispatched unnecessarily. It's a waste of resources."

Akari nods. It's a good system. "I understand." It's not like she can make an emergency call in old-world Hisui. They don't even have basic landlines yet.

"Alright," Rei announces, bringing Akari's attention back to him. "It's time to start your trial."

Akari suddenly feels giddy. It's finally time. "I'm ready!"

Rei is pleased by her enthusiasm. "Now remember what you've got to do. You've been tasked with catching three species of Pokémon: Bidoof, Starly, and Shinx!"

"I remember," Akari says.

Rei looks at Akari, seeming to scrutinize her a little bit. "I'm curious to see if the professor's stories about you are really true." He really wants to believe they are. They desperately need someone with that kind of catching skill to help them with the Pokédex.

The sound of footsteps is heard approaching from the dirt road. Akari looks towards the sound. So does Rei. It's Professor Laventon entering camp. He smiles, stating, "Good day, Rei. Akari."

Akari is confused. She hadn't expected that Laventon would come to the trial himself. Neither had Rei, judging by his frown. He asks, "Oh, Professor? Is something wrong?"

Laventon lets out a rather dramatic sigh. "Ah, well, you see, Captain Cyllene got hold of me after you left. She had impressed upon me that I bear full responsibility for whatever happens to Akari."

"Why?" Akari doesn't get it. "You're not my keeper."

Laventon shakes his head. "I was the one who brought you into the village. I also asked Captain Cyllene to let you join the Survey Corps. You wouldn't be here if it wasn't for me."

It still doesn't make any sense to Akari. If she doesn't pass the trial, she's going to be tossed out of the village anyway, likely to die by their standards. Why even make Professor Laventon responsible if happens to her during this little test? It seemed like a dumb thing to do.

"Typical." Rei sounds rather annoyed. "The captain doesn't let up, does she." Judging by his expression, he seems to know something Akari does not. However, he speaks again before she can ask about it. "How exactly, does she expect you to help here, Professor?"

Laventon shrugs. "I'm not sure what she's thinking, but to be honest, my dear boy, I don't intend to lift a finger."

Rei is now outright frowning. "You're just going to sit here at camp?" He's not happy.

"That's right," Laventon answers. He doesn't seem to be aware of Rei's frustration at all. "Akari's talents are the real deal," he boasts. "She'll pass with flying colors – you'll see." He sounds very confident in Akari's abilities. At least someone believes in her.

Rei doesn't seem impressed by the fanfare though. If anything, he seems even more annoyed. "So, in other words, I'm still the one bearing all the responsibility here?" He glowers. "This is not my ideal state of affairs."

"Hay now," Akari interjects. "You don't have to worry so much. I got this; you'll see."

Rei looks at Akari in wonder. "Let's just get started." He casts Laventon one final disgruntled look before motioning for Akari to follow him. "You'll probably be more than equal to this than I think."

"Definitely." Akari is full of confidence. She's going to pass this without any trouble. Oshawott has already proved himself capable while battling against Volo's Togepi.

The dirt road narrows as they travel up a large hill, heading towards the inner parts of the Obsidian Fieldlands. Rei is ahead of her again, leading her towards the trial sight, while still watching the tree line. Akari bites her tongue, refusing to let herself speak. She's still a stranger here in Hisui and her advice is unlikely to be taken seriously just yet.

They crested the hill just as the sun reached its highest point in the sky. Akari breath is stolen from her as she looks across her homeland. The Obsidian Fieldlands is laid out before her, bare, wild, and completely untouched. It's stunning. This is Sinnoh in its purest form. She loves it.

Rei stops next to Akari, noticing her expression. He'll admit, the Obsidian Fieldlands is gorgeous, but it's not jaw dropping. He can only imagine her reactions to the coastlands or far north. "This is Aspiration Hill," he informs. "It's basically the gateway to most of Hisui."

Akari takes a deep breath to calm her nerves. She's heard of Aspiration Hill. It's just outside of modern day Canalave City, near the Western Sea Port. It was widened at some point in history to allow ships to cross, but as of now, it's still very narrow. They only had to cross a long foot bridge to get here.

"A Bidoof!" Rei exclaims. "Oh, it's running away."

Akari smiles, finding Rei's reactions cute. He almost looks just like a little kid right now. "Not to worry," she says. "Bidoof aren't fast so we can catch him."

Rei seems surprised Akari knows this. "Yeah, I suppose so." He looks further down the road. "Usually, Bidoof is a more mellow Pokémon, which means it doesn't tend to run away when you approach."

Akari shrugs. "That's true. I'm betting that one is either very shy or didn't even notice us. He could've also been in a hurry to get somewhere."

"You think?" Rei inquires. It's true that Bidoof can be very absent minded, almost dumb even. This often leads them to have a one-track mind or to be overly oblivious of their surroundings.

"I do," Akari says. "And where there is one Bidoof, there is usually more." She doesn't wait for Rei, walking further down the road, looking for any evidence of the beaver Pokémon's location. She spots two a little way off the road, nibbling on a stump. It's going to be an easy catch.

Rei approaches, appearing ready to say something, but Akari holds up her hand. She's got this.

Akari walks towards them slowly, carefully making sure her footsteps are quiet. She readies a Pokéball, then flings it at the Bidoof facing away from her. It's a perfect back strike throw. The Bidoof didn't stand a chance and was captured without incident.

"Wow." Rei couldn't believe it. Akari caught a Pokémon with one ball, on the first try. He wouldn't have believed it if he hadn't seen it himself. "One Bidoof – caught!" he announces excitedly. He desperately wants to see how she handles the next two, especially Shinx. Those little guys are shocking, literally. "Now, on we march!"

Rei led Akari a little further down the road. He knew a place where Starly liked to gather. It's a little grove with some berry trees. He spots three Starly right away. Akari sees them too, kneeling quickly to avoid detection. Rei follows her example. He looks at her, "Now, Starly here – it's the type to run at the drop of a hat."

Akari knew this already but nods anyway to show she heard him. She then focuses on her next catch. She readies another Pokéball as she creeps into a patch of high grass. The greenery hid her well, making her almost invisible as she silently waits.

Rei watches in amazement. Akari is perfectly still, not moving a single muscle as she watches the little Starly frolic. Then one hops over, looking to munch on some barriers that have fallen to the ground. Akari makes her throw, the Pokéball connecting with the top of the bird's head. The rest of the flock scatters, scared by the sudden commotion. The catch is successful.

Rei is flabbergasted. "And that's Starly, caught too!" He looks at Akari, looking slightly envious. "I admit, I'm impressed so far."

Akari smiles, a little blush forming on her cheeks. "I'm not as special as you claim," she says modestly. "I just had an amazing teacher." The recollection of Palmer lecturing Barry and her on how to catch wild Pokémon as children comes to her. They hadn't been permitted to put those lessons to use until they were much older, but she'd recalled everything clearly.

Rei looks surprised. "Someone taught you?" He had to teach himself everything he currently knows.

"Yes," Akari answers. "He was like a father to me." She can feel her repressed feelings trying to resurface. "Anyway," she says changing the subject. "We should move on." These feelings of homesickness are not what she needs right now. She needs to focus.

Rei wants to ask more questions but doesn't. This is apparently a sensitive subject for Akari. Perhaps, when they get a little closer to one another as comrades, she'll open up to him. For now, though, he'll be her guide through the rest of this trial. "We've reached your final hurdle: catching a Shinx." He puts on his best smile. This one scares him a little.

Akari returns the smile. She had seen the questions in his eyes; ones he thankfully didn't ask. Truthfully, speaking of her loved ones isn't going to be the problem, despite the sadness she would feel. It's explaining where she's from that would be the real issue. It would raise too many questions, and these people are already suspicious enough of her.

Rei is leading her down the road once more. He stops near the bottom of Aspiration Hill. "There it is, Shinx." There's a look on his face that suggests he isn't a fan of this Pokémon. "Shinx has an aggressive disposition." He looks back at Akari. "Did you know that already?"

Akari nods. "Yep."

"That figures." Rei lets out a sigh. He's beginning to wonder why he's even here. Akari obviously knows what she's doing. "I have to focus on a Pokémon carefully to notice a thing like that."

"I do too," Akari says. Rei's confidence has taken a hit. She hadn't meant for it to happen, but she's very skilled at catching. "I just know a lot about Shinx, that's all."

"You do? How?" Rei is curious.

Akari answers, "There's a lot of them in my hometown." She doesn't say more though, as the little Shinx is now looking their way. These little guys have sharp hearing. However, something strikes Akari as odd. This particular Shinx is alone. That's not normal, as these Pokémon typically travel in prides of three or more. She's also determined this one is female. That makes this situation even stranger, as females never leave the pride they're born into, unless… something bad has happened.

Shinx is suddenly hissing, the fur on her back hackled with sparks. She looks ready to release a Thunder Shock attack, but she doesn't. Instead, she takes a step back, appearing ready to flee. This little lion cub isn't aggressive, she's frightened.

Rei cringes at the sight. "Be careful," he warns. It's apparent he's seeing something different than her.

"There's no need." Akari walks towards Shinx slowly, getting about ten feet away before kneeling to make herself look smaller. She says softly, "I know you're scared, but it's okay. I'm not going to hurt you."

Shinx faulters a little. It's obvious Akari's gentle approach isn't something the little lion cub expected. She tilts her head in confusion.

Rei is standing rather far away. He's terrified that Akari's about to get hit hard by an electric attack. Shinx looks his way and hisses at him. He flinches.

Akari notices. "His name is Rei." She brings Shinx's attention back to her. "I'm Akari." She gestures to herself. "It's nice to me you."

Shinx tilts her head again. "Mow?" she says in question.

Akari smiles. This is her chance to build trust. "I'm kind of new around here, you know. I get the sense that there are a lot of misunderstandings between humans and Pokémon in this place. Is that true?"

Shinx nods. "Mow!"

"That's a shame," Akari states. "I'm betting that's part of the reason you were so scared of us, isn't it?"

Shinx nods again. "Mow!"

Rei's jaw drops. Akari is having a conversation with a wild Shinx. She's actually talking to it, and it's listening to her! He's never seen such a thing, EVER!

"Well, Shinx," Akari says. "I'm here to help ease that fear. You see, I want to help build something called a Pokédex. It's basically going to be record of every Pokémon that lives in Hisui."

"Mow?" It's a question; one Akari understands. Shinx wants to know why she's doing this. Akari answers, "Well if people understand Pokémon better, they'll be less afraid. Right now, as it stands, the people of Galaxy Team don't really understand the Pokémon of this land, and that's why they're scared. It's why they run or attack without thinking things through. I want to fix that."

"Mow!" Shinx is suddenly excited. She wants that so much. People and Pokémon living side by side happily, like they used to before Team Galaxy showed up.

Akari smiles kindly. "Do you want to help me?" She offers. "I know it might be a scary prospect to trust me so quickly, but I think you could be very helpful in changing people's opinions. You're sweet, I can tell, and most people need to meet a Shinx like you."

"Mow…" The tone is sad. Something is holding Shinx back.

"What's wrong?" Akari asks. She wants to know what that something is.

Shinx looks up, appearing extremely ashamed. She suddenly crouches, her fur sparking as if to attack, but nothing happens. The electricity just fizzles out. Shinx looks up at Akari sadly. "Mow…"

"I see," Akari states, now understanding. "You can't discharge your electric attacks." To the Shinx and all its evolutions, the power of one's electric attack determines their place within a pride. This little girl can't even use hers, and this is why she's alone. She's been abandoned because she's seen as useless by her comrades. "You know, I don't really care if you can discharge your attacks. I'm sure, with time, you'll figure it out and if not, that's okay too."

Shinx suddenly looks happy. "Mow!" She runs up to Akari, jumping into her arms. Shinx wants this. She wants to be with this human. She wants to feel accepted again; to be a part of a family.

Rei's heart skips a beat. He can't believe what he's seeing. Akari just caught a wild Shinx with kind words and affection. He thinks he might die from shock.

Akari pulls out a Pokéball and holds it out in her palm. Shinx looks down at it, ready to let herself be captured when a fierce screech is suddenly heard from high above.

"Watch out!" Rei cries out. He sees the Pokémon before Akari does. However, she did sense its approach.

The Pokémon is coming from the sky, trying to dive bomb Akari for whatever reason. She lets her instincts take over, clutching Shinx tightly to her chest as she dodges the attack by body rolling. If she had hesitated, they both would have been implied by sharp talons.

"A Rufflet!" Rei shouts. "It's a Rufflet!" He sounds rather alarmed. "It's a very aggressive Pokémon and this one's huge, likely meaning it's an alpha! Watch out!"

Akari looks up, her eyes narrowed. It's a Rufflet alright, and Rei's right, he's huge. She's heard legends of these alpha Pokémon; modern science states they're just abnormally big. The native people of Hisui claimed these Pokémon were terrifying and full of wild aggressive might. After seeing one herself, she's inclined to side with the natives. This Rufflet is looking for a fight. "What do you want?" Akari's question is forceful.

The Rufflet puffs his dull rusty colored feathers in agitation. This Pokémon isn't only an alpha, he's also shiny. In modern day, this Pokémon is a Holy Grail of rare catches. However, Akari isn't interested in that. She just wants to find out what his problem is.

Rufflet screeches and charges without warning, appearing to use the attack Brave Bird. Akari dodges again, still holding Shinx in her arms. "What an ass!" she hisses. This Pokémon's attitude is way too extreme. Shinx is hissing too, feeling rather threatened herself.

Akari knows she's going to have to fight back. This Rufflet is too worked up to be talked down. She reaches into her satchel, grabbing Oshawott's Pokéball, tossing it before her. A flash of light, and the otter Pokémon appears. He glares at Rufflet angerly, having heard everything from within his Pokéball.

Akari looks at Oshawott. "We're going to have to defend ourselves." He nods to show he heard her.

There's a pleased gleam in Rufflet's gaze. It's apparent this is what he wanted – a fight with one of her Pokémon. The eaglet screeches once more, aiming a Brave Bird attack right at Oshawott. It's a very powerful attack on its own, even if this Rufflet had been on the weaker side. It's not though. Akari is certain this one is close to evolving. This means it's unlikely Oshawott can take a direct hit and remain standing. She sends out a warning, "Be careful, this Rufflet knows some very advanced moves. If you take a direct hit, you'll get banged up badly."

Oshawott dodges the attack, but barely. He growls in frustration. Rufflet is FAST!

Shinx becomes antsy within Akari's arms. She's made the decision to join Akari on the Pokédex journey. That makes Oshawott her new comrade. She needs to help him! "MOW!" She roars out, wriggling out of Akari's arms at the same time. Shinx runs towards Oshawott, joining him on the battlefield. She hisses and sparks appear in her fur.

Akari bites her lip. A Shinx would typically have the type advantage against most flying Pokémon. However, this one hasn't mastered her electric attacks yet. This puts Shinx at a disadvantage, but she wants to fight. Akari can't pull her back without hurting the pride of the young lion.

"Akari!" Rei calls. He's moved in closer, Pokéball in hand. "I'm here to help." He releases a Pikachu onto the battlefield. The little electric mouse is sparking.

It's now three against one. However, Rufflet doesn't seem deterred at all. If anything, he's more excited.

"Pikachu!" Rei shouts. "Use Thunder Shock! Let's hit him where it hurts!"

Akari turns towards Rei. "No, bad idea!" She shouts. "Rufflet's speed is too high! He'll dodge and Pikachu won't be able to dodge!"

The warning comes too late. Pikachu, in his enthusiasm to battle, did exactly as he was told. He released a Thunder Shock, attempting to hit Rufflet, but the bird's speed allowed him to dodge elegantly. Rufflet's claws begin to glow with a dark purple light. Akari recognizes the attack, it's Shadow Claw.

"Oshawott!" Akari calls. "Use Razor Shell to disrupt Rufflet's trajectory."

Oshawott doesn't hesitate, grabbing his shell and tossing it hard. Rufflet sees it coming and is forced to dodge, saving their comrade. Akari lets out a sigh of relief; had that attack connected, it would have hurt very badly.

Pikachu looks at Akari, amazed. He's never seen a different trainer order their Pokémon to protect him. It's usually everyone for themselves. There's never any teamwork or coordination. He suddenly takes an instant liking to Akari. Perhaps, she can teach his trainer a thing or two.

"Listen," Akari begins forcefully. She's looking directly at Rei. "This Rufflet is VERY STRONG and VERY FAST! This means, we must work together to win, understand?"

Rei is embarrassed. He'd blundered so badly, and Akari – the rookie – had just saved his Pokémon. "Got it." He's never felt so ashamed. Pikachu could really have been hurt.

Akari looks at Rufflet. He appears to be chuckling to himself. "You think this is funny?" She's irritated by the eaglet's disrespect. "Go on then, act like the little nightmare you're being, but this dream of yours is coming to an end."

Rufflet's gaze gives her the impression of smirking. Akari smirks back, causing the bird Pokémon to narrow his eyes in suspicion. It's obvious Rufflet's smart because he now realizes she has a plan.

"Shinx! Oshawott!" Akari calls. "I need you both to go after Rufflet together! Work as a team, using whatever moves necessary to keep Rufflet on the move. I don't want him to think about anything else other than having to dodge you!"

Shinx and Oshawott cry out in unison, before charging together, speaking to one another as they go. It's clear that they are formulating a plan to help their teamwork be successful.

Akari knows that her Pokémon won't be able to keep Rufflet on the defensive for very long, but they are the perfect short-term distraction. She turns her attention towards Rei and his partner. "Pikachu needs to perform a Thunder Wave while my Pokémon keep Rufflet from being able to dodge it."

Rei appears to hesitate. He's unsure if Pikachu can be successful. However, his partner is already on the move, using Akari's guidance instead of waiting on his trainer. He knows he can do this whether Rei believes in him or not.

"Pika!" Pikachu rushed in quickly, working his way through the chaos of the ongoing battle. Rufflet sees him coming, but Oshawott aims a Razor Shell at him, forcing him backwards and closer to Pikachu who unleashes Thunder Wave. It's a direct hit.

Rufflet screeches in frustration. The paralyzing effect had taken over his body immediately, cutting his speed in half. It also hurt to flap his wings.

"Everyone!" Akari shouts. "Now's our chance, attack together!"

Oshawott uses Water Gun.

Pikachu uses Thunder Shock.

Shinx crouches, an idea coming to her unexpectedly. She fills her fur with electricity, and charges, hitting Rufflet right in the chest. The eaglet screeches in pain, and slams into the ground. He can't move.

Akari smiles brightly. Shinx can't discharge her electricity, but she can still make it dance in her fur and that's enough to use a move known as Spark. "Great job Shinx! You've learned an electric type move!" She's so proud of the little lion cub.

"Mow!" Shinx is very proud of herself.

Rei steps towards the struggling Rufflet. "I can catch him!" he says excitedly.

"Don't you dare!" Akari interjects. "He'll resent you if you do!"

Rei is confused. "What…?" He doesn't understand.

Akari walks up to Rufflet. He's struggling to stand. "Hay, now, take it easy." Akari's voice is soft. "I don't know why you attacked us like that, and honestly, I don't care. Your intent was to hurt, and that's not okay." She kneels, looking the eaglet in the eye. "Indeed, you were a little nightmare to deal with, and despite that, I forgive you."

Rufflet is confused. He's being forgiven. Why?

Akari reaches into her satchel, pulling out one of the potions Volo had given her. "This wasn't a truly fair fight. You're very strong and fast, so to defend ourselves, we had to gang up on you. I don't think catching you now would be fair, and I don't think you'd respect either Rei or myself if we did." She unscrews the cap and places the battle on the ground. "This is a medicine. I'm giving it to you so you can heal up faster."

Rufflet looks at the offering, then back up at Akari's face. He can only see sincerity.

Akari continues, "Train up and so will I." She smiles kindly. "Then let's find each other again. We'll have a battle unlike any other. If I win, I get to catch you. If you win, I will concede honorably before your brethren. Sound Fair?"

Rufflet nods, accepting the terms. It's hard to admit, but when he had watched Akari battling Volo back in Jubilife Village, he'd been impressed. However, he'd tried to convince himself that it was just luck. Then he'd watched her interaction with that abandoned Shinx, and something in him just snapped. It was likely jealousy. He's never had a human be that kind to him – not one from Team Galaxy anyway.

Rufflet takes the potion. It instantly makes him feel better. The paralyzation effect he suffered from is also starting to fade. He bows his head in respect towards Akari, then towards Pikachu, Oshawott, and Shinx. Rei only receives a harsh glare for suggesting that he should be captured. Rufflet then opens his wings and flies away.

"Alright then," Akari says standing back up. She looks back at everyone. They're all standing close together, almost like a huddle. "Now that everything is settled safety, we can head back to camp." She turns towards Shinx. "Unless you've changed your mind about joining me. I must capture a Shinx after all."

"Mow!" Shinx answers by rubbing up against Akari's leg, looking like a spoiled Glameow.

"Is that a, yes?" Akari questions.

Shinx is now purring, clearly happy. She darts away suddenly, heading over towards the Pokéball laying on the ground. It's the one Akari was going to place her in when Rufflet attacked. It had been dropped when they dodged that first attack.

"Mow!" Shinx, using her nose, touches the Pokéball. It responds instantly, snapping open and pulling her inside with a flash of light. The ball wriggles, and with that, Shinx is caught.

Akari walks over, picking up the ball. She tosses it, releasing Shinx. "Come on out!"

"Mow!" Shinx appears. She looks so happy.

Rei smiles. Akari is amazing. She just appears one day, falling from the sky, and shook up his perception of Pokémon. He'd always been terrified of the wild ones, but now, he's beginning to think he shouldn't be. Then something very important occurs to him. "Wait – did you really…? You really did! You did it!" Akari had caught a Shinx, causing her to pass her trail. "That's three species of Pokémon – caught! You really are some kind of prodigy!"

Akari shakes her head. "I'm really not," she insists. "I just have had a good amount of practice at this."

Rei doesn't seem to hear her. "You've must've given Professor Laventon the shock of his life. First you fall from the sky, then you go and catch all our escaped Pokémon, one after another." He looks honestly impressed. "I honestly didn't believe the professor's story until I saw you in action myself."

Akari finds herself sighing. Rei's going to start blabbing about this all over the village, she just knows it. He has that gossiping look in his eye. It's an embarrassing concept, but if it helps villagers like her better. Well, she can't really complain about it then.

Rei continues. "Here you are with three Pokémon caught. You've completed your trial! We should head back to Fieldlands Camp and report this success right away." His smile is huge.

Akari nods. It's time to become apart of Team Galaxy.

They both start the trek back to base camp, their Pokémon all following close behind them.

.

.

.

A young man and woman are standing next one another on top of a small cliff that runs alongside of Aspiration Hill. They each wore kimonos of the Dimond Clan, although the man's clothes are much more elaborate than that of the woman with him. There's also a Leafeon and a Munchlax at their sides.

They had come to the area when rumors of a stranger falling from the sky had reached their ears the night before. Those of their Clan believed that this was the work of the Almighty Sinnoh. The leader of the Clan, Adaman, along his Worden of Obsidian Fieldlands, Mai have come to investigate. If the Almighty Sinnoh of Time had indeed sent this person to them, they would do everything necessary to obtain them. The idea of Team Galaxy obtaining any blessing from their god is infuriating.

"What are you thinking?" Mai inquires.

Adaman closes his eyes. He's feeling a complex array of emotions: suspicion, curiosity, irritation, and even a little bit infatuation. This stranger is beautiful. "Judging her from what we've seen, I'm inclined to believe the Almighty Sinnoh brought her here. The way she handled that Shinx was superb. She instantly recognized that she was frightened and needed help. If anyone else from Team Galaxy had stumbled upon the poor thing, they would have just attacked, probably even killing her."

"Indeed," Mai says. "Team Galaxy's ignorant fear is destructive to wild Pokémon. I beginning to think we'll have to intervein soon. If not, I fear it will only grow worse."

Adaman sighs. "While this is true, I do worry about the political implications of such actions. We cannot afford a conflict with them at this time; not with that rift in the sky." His gaze drifts towards the swirling dark mass above Mount Coronet.

Mai looks as well. "I suppose that's true." She frowns, her gaze returning to the dirt road below them. The stranger, known as Akari, is smiling, and joking around with Rei. She notices that the young man's Pikachu has been left out of it Pokéball. It's currently frolicking with Akari's Pokémon.

"You know," Mai begins. "I have to wonder if it wasn't the Almighty Sinnoh's desire to place her among those of Team Galaxy."

"Excuse me?" Adaman is displeased by Mai's words. "She can't possibly belong among those bigots. Their unnatural fear, ignorance, and violent responses will smother her pure heart."

"Perhaps," Mai responds. "But I don't think that will happen."

"Why not?" Adaman questions.

Mai considers her words. "I think her natural talents with Pokémon, and the bonds she is forging with them will set an example for others to follow. Looks at that young man she is with now. I believe his name is Rei, and he's always feared Pokémon, but today, there was a great shift in him. It was because he was with Akari, watching and learning from her."

Adaman clenches his jaw. "And what of the Pearl Clan." His tone is serious. "Irida isn't a fool. She'll be suspicious in the beginning just as I was. However, once she sees what we have, she'll want Akari for the Pearl Clan. I cannot allow that. They can't have any advantages over us."

"Come now," Mai says. "Think like the good leader you are. You know the Pearl Clan, like us, plays nice with Team Galaxy only to appease them for the time being. If they attempt to openly encourage Akari into joining them, it will cause problems. It's something Irida wouldn't want. However, the same can be said for us. We cannot openly persuade her."

"I'm aware," Adaman states. "But I think I have a solution."

"Oh?" Mai is curious. "What is it?"

Adaman shrugs, unsure if he should divulge it. Mai is his ultimate keeper of secrets though. She'd basically raised him. "Well," he begins. "As the current head of the Dimond Clan, I have certain responsibilities as you're aware. I need to produce an heir in the next few years."

Mai narrows her eyes. "You plan to seduce her?"

"Not at first," Adaman corrects. "I want to make sure we are compatible first. If we are, I'll make sure she falls for me. I want a strong woman that wants to be mine; anything less is unacceptable."

Mai relaxes. "As long as she can refuse, I'm okay with this plan." She turns away from the road. Akari and the rest of her traveling companions have already passed over the crest of the hill. However, something else catches her attention. "Oh my, that's an unexpected development."

"Hum?" Adaman follows Mai's line of sight. There's a very large Luxray – an alpha for sure - sniffing the ground as he prowls quickly towards the base of Aspiration Hill. There's are four Shinx and two Luxio with him. It's a whole pride, but something seems off with them. The way the Luxray is tracking, it looks desperate. The Shinx following look very submissive, almost as if in trouble. The Luxio seemed to be keeping an eye on them. It's very odd behavior for sure.

"Oh, my," Mai says worriedly. "I'm beginning to think that little Shinx isn't truly abandoned after all."

"I agree," Adaman says. "Although, I do believe that little Shinx truly believes she is."

Mai turns her attention towards the Fieldlands Camp. "I wonder how she'll handle it?"

"We're going," Adaman commands. "If we have to protect her, we will."

Mai follows without complaint. "I honestly doubt she'll need it." But then again, calming an enraged Luxray will be Akari's biggest challenge yet.

.

.

.

End Chapter Two: The Trial