In our previous episode, our Pokéstars were chosen and introduced. But there's still time before they head onto their main adventure, the adventure in the Insulae Region!

All eight people were led down a hallway. Most of them looked around the huge filming studio in awe as they watched all the different processes go on. Aliciawasn't impressed, and Katsuya didn't see the excitement of being inside one of the largest studios ever.

Famous actors and voice actors walked around calmly, some of them waved to the eight Pokéstars. Jax and Zeke had already struck up a conversation about different actors and future releases.

"Now," said their tour guide, a man named Samson. "I'd love giving you a tour. But Professor Aspenwould like for you all to be acquainted before he gives you your Pokémon."

"Professor Aspen?" asked Claire. "You mean the head professor of the Donaldan Region?"

"Yes," said Samson. "He'll give you a selection from twenty one different Pokémon from seven different regions."

"Only twenty one?" asked Alicia. "Surely you have enough money to offer more choices."

"Yes we do, but we don't want to upset the natural ecosystem by introducing Pokémon not found in the region. Even just one Pokémon can upset this."

"Fine, I just hope you have a wide and exotic selection of Pokémon."

"And what makes you so privileged again?" asked Seth, appearing to be confused.

"I wouldn't expect someone who lives in the Calzei Region to know. I am Alicia Prescott. Heiress to Hyperion Industries. Surely you've at least heard of that company, considering you've claimed to be an elite trainer yourself."

"Just buy your own since you're so rich," said Seth. "That shouldn't be a problem for someone like you. But who am I to pry? Rich girls like complaining about everything."

"And people like you only know what it's like to be rich from watching childish cartoons where the rich person is an arrogant, dependent girl. I'm neither. Don't project your own behaviors onto someone else."

Seth rolled his eyes and said nothing.

Katusya spoke up for the first time. "Twenty one Pokémon is fine for me, as long as they're not poké-trash."

Claire whipped around and looked at him. "Oh great, you're that kind of trainer," she said, sounding somewhat disgusted.

"I only bring out the potential of Pokémon that have potential to be brought out in the first place. I won't waste my time."

Seth gave a wolfish grin. "Maybe you should try training an Aegislash. Has about as much edge as you do."

He burst into laughter at his own joke as everyone else did as well. Katusya and Alcia were unamused though.

"Can you possibly be any more childish?" asked Alicia. "Only an immature person would find such basic puns funny."

Jax shrugged. "I thought it was hilarious."

"We're all young at heart," agreed Zeke.

Samson stopped in front of a door. "You'll wait here while Professor Aspen gets ready for your interviews.."

They entered the room and found a nicely outfitted living room. There were couches with plush pillows featuring various Pokémon and card tables with various games. There was a fluffy carpet on the ground with an ocean motif and Magikarps swimming around.

"This is a nice place," said Jax, sitting down on a couch.

The others sat down, with Alicia choosing to sit away from the others. Katsuya pulled out a chessboard from a coffee table and set it down.

"Who wants to play?" he asked. "Make it quick."

"I'll play," said Zeke, sitting opposite to Katsuya as he set up the board.

"Hey Diego," said Jax. "I have a question."

"Go for it," said Diego, putting his sword scabbard down as he sat on a couch.

"Is your sword real?"

"It is real, as well as the scabbard."

"Where did you get it from?" asked Jax. "I'm surprised they even allowed you to keep it."

"I… actually don't remember where it came from. All I know is that it belongs to me and it's very important. I feel a strange connection to it. I don't remember anything from my past."

"I'm sure you'll remember eventually," said Jax. "Why did you decide to join?"

"For one thing, it may help to restore my memories. When my amnesia happened, I only remembered a few things. That this sword I have is mine, and my Pokémon trainer skills. Because of that, I've been dedicating myself to Pokémon battles. I'm hoping this battle will restore my memories."

Jax nodded. "I can understand your reasoning, I hope the Island of Challenge helps with your amnesia. I was just hoping to talk, see you."

Diego nodded as Jax stood up and went over to talk to Claire. He looked over to Katusya and Zeke and saw that Katsuya was finishing up the game.

"That's checkmate," he said, putting his queen on the left side of the board.

"Good game, you're really good at this."

"I am," said Katsuya. "But you just suck, a lot."

Zeke laughed. "True, it doesn't take a chess master to realize that. I never really grasped the game y'know?"

"No, I don't know. The game was easy to master."

Zeke shrugged. "People are different."

"Yeah, so different that some of them are so trash at the game, that there's no point in them playing the game."

"Are you just trying to make him mad?" asked Diego.

"No," said Katsuya. "I'm just saying facts."

Zeke stood up. "It's fine really. It's clear Katsuya wants me to lose my head, but it won't work. It's good to know the opposition. I can easily see that Katusya wins battles by making his opponents lose focus."

"Wait, are you talking to me?" asked Diego.

"Don't worry about it," said Zeke, walking away. He picked out a couch and sat down near Kendra, who moved away slightly to create more room.

"Hello, you're Kendra, right?"

"U-Uh yeah! That's me! I'm Kendra Sorel."

"Nice to meet you, I'm Zeke Enator. Just wanted to mention, you were sweating a lot during the introduction. You nervous?"

"I shouldn't be here," said Kendra, sliding down in her seat.

"What did you say?"

"Huh? Oh, I said it's nice here. Anyways, why did you sign up?" asked Kendra, waving her hands.

"It's going to be a bit like a vacation. I'm also after the prize money to pay for medical school."

"There's prize money?"

Zeke looked a bit confused. "You didn't know?"

"I kinda skimmed over the entry form. It was a big mistake."

"A classic and dumb mistake too," interjected Katsuya. "Anyone with a slight idea of what they're doing wouldn't make that kind of mistake. I doubt you'll be any good at this."

"And with your belief about Pokémon training neither will you!" said Claire. "Besides, I doubt you even know who you're dealing with. Kendra's brother is Damein Sorel! Right Kendra?"

"Y-yeah."

"That makes her even less skilled. Your parents probably focused all their effort and attention into the precious firstborn son. I doubt your bigshot brother even taught you anything. And your parents discarded you like useless trash."

"No!" shouted Kendra indignantly, standing up. "I'm sure I could beat you, definitely."

She shrank back a bit and held her hands together, sounding a lot less confident.

"Bro, what's your deal?" asked Seth.

Katsuya glanced at him. "Are you talking about me?"

"No, I'm talking to the wall."

"Ok," said Katsuya. "Weirdo."

Seth rolled his eyes. "Of course I'm talking about you! What's your beef with everyone?"

"I have no beef, and I hate beef."

"So you just want to cause commotion," said Jax.

Katsuya didn't say anything and went off to do his own thing. Everyone else sighed and sat back down to down.

"Jeez," said Jax. "These are the kind of people we're going to be dealing with."

"Katsuya seems really good at being unfriendly," said Claire. "I already hate that guy. Imagine treating Pokémon like that. Are you okay Kendra?"

Kendra nodded. "Yeah."

"I dunno what his problem is," said Seth. "Probably was abandoned at birth or something crazy like that." he gave a huff. "This adventure is going to be fun! We have someone who likes to antagonize people for whatever reason, and a rich snob who thinks she's better than everyone."

Alicia glared at him. "The only reason I think I'm the best is because I'm in a group with someone like you. You're setting professional standards pretty low."

Seth stopped for a moment, then laughed all of a sudden. Everyone looked at him in surprise, and a bit of concern as he kept on laughing.

"Dear Arceus, I am so sorry Miss Alicia. I know that I've probably been extremely rude, and that was thoughtless of me. I realized that you probably don't joke around like I do considering your status. I think you might've mentioned earlier that you were a heiress to Hyperion Industries right?"

"Correct," said Alicia, getting slightly suspicious.

"I wish you a full congratulations on that and wish you all the best when you eventually own the company."

"Thank you, but why are you being so friendly all of a sudden? People don't have sudden changes of heart."

"True," said Seth, dropping his act. "I'm only pretending to be nice and submissive because I'd like to lodge a complaint. First of all, your products suck, especially your pokéballs. I was trying to catch my second Pokémon, a Deino, and I had a bunch of Great Balls made by Hyperion Industries. I tried using a Great Ball. And if you guessed it broke out, you are correct! I tried four more Great Balls, and had my Zorua attack it with a Pursuit after the second ball. And they didn't work!"

Alicia tried cutting him off with an angry tone. "Yo-"

"Let me finish. The last capture device I had was a dented pokéball created by Silph Co. And what would you know? I caught it on three shakes and a prayer! My second complaint is that for such low quality products, you sell them at outrageous prices. Now you'd think that higher prices meant better quality, but nope! Third complaint, the heiress to the company is an annoying little girl standing at four feet and ten inches-"

"Five feet dumb-"

"Who won't shut up about her family's wealth and status as if it's relevant in any scenario on a live TV show, wears the goofiest outfit that probably costs more than my laptop, and couldn't care less about another person in her entire life. Thanks god, I hate it."

Alicia gave him a look. "Are you done yet?"

"One more thing, your next statement is going to call me childish in one way, shape, or form."

"Number one: That story of yours is obviously either fabricated, or you left our details. Perhaps the amount of intelligence you have that makes you think of these inane jokes also makes you think that you could catch a Deino in your shiny new Great Balls without weakening it. Second: Our prices are calculated in a way we can make money as well as sell products at fair prices. Of course, to anyone who's taken a basic economics class, the fact our products are in high demand means that we sell a lot. Because of this simple relationship, the price rises as supplies dwindle. Our price per product has to be higher than the amount of money it costs to make them. You do the math. Third: My status is important to the show because my appearance as a skilled trainer and future owner of the company could work to make people more inclined to purchase our products. My outfit, while definitely more expensive than your cheap laptop, matches perfectly and gives me a professional look. Something your second hand clothing does not."

Seth flinched. "All right princess. So what if my clothes are second hand? That's none of your business. I wonder if it ever occurred to you that you shouldn't spend all your parents' money on yourself."

With that, he stomped away to a corner and brooded in silence.

"Well this is going beautifully," said Zeke.

Alicia huffed. "That's what he deserves. One moment he's insulting my family's name, the next second he can't take one of his own insults."

"I think you struck a nerve though," Jax pointed out, trying to diffuse the situation.

"Doesn't matter to me."

Kendra sighed on the couch. "Why do I never pay attention? This probably can and will get any worse."

"Don't say that," said Claire.

At that moment, Samson walked in. He took in the scene of Katsuya sitting by himself on his phone, Seth in a corner furiously scribbling on his laptop, Kendra slumped on the couch, and Jax and Clair with worried expressions on their faces.

"Uh, well. The interviewers are ready if-"

"Tell them I'm not up for it," said Seth.

"Please sir, it'll only last a few minutes."

Katsuya stood up. "Do we have to?"

"Yes. These interviews will be broadcasted to the show."

"Then let's get it over with."

Interviews - Zeke Enator

Zeke was called up first and told to sit on a plush couch facing the right in front of two interviewers seated on couches atop a stage. There were cameras facing towards them from the front, meaning the Zeke wasn't facing the cameras.

The two interviewers were named Ryan and Klara. Klara was a slightly short woman with a gorgeous red dress with flowers and red lipstick. Ryan was much taller and wore a plaid business suit. He also held a clipboard for marking down answers.

Assistant Director John gave a nod. "Everything's set. Anything you need to say Samson?"

"Just remember Zeke. This isn't scripted. The question you'll get will vary. Just be yourself."

John gave a thumbs up to Zeke. "Look alive people. We're recording in 3… 2… 1.. start."

Klara turned towards the cameras and gave a wave. "Good evening everyone! Today we're hosting live interviews of the Pokéstars who will be journeying to the Insulae Region tomorrow for a very amazing adventure. To start us off, we have called onto the stage, Zeke Enator!"

There was a crowd applause sound effect being played from somewhere. Zeke raised an eyebrow at the sound effect, but shrugged and decided not to worry.

"So Zeke," continued Klara in a bright voice. "I heard you're originally from the Alola Region. Why don't you talk about that."

"Sure. I was born in Alola during the time in which people from other regions close by would call winter. It's a really nice place actually, lots of sun, clear skies, and friendly people. My family eventually moved to Johto and opened up a bike shop. When I grew older I moved to Fortree City in Hoenn to do carpentry as I studied medicine."

"Interesting," said Ryan in a slightly tired voice. "Y'know, my kid really loves treehouses, and nature in general. While everyone else is saying they want to be doctors, or engineers, or professional battlers and scientists. My son stands proud and declares he wants to be a nature photographer. He says he's going to move to Fortree City or camp in the Insulae Region when he's older and take pictures of Pokémon."

Zeke laughed. "Sounds like fun! I hope he can achieve his dream!"

Ryan nodded. "Speaking of dreams, why did you sign up for the Island of Challenge? And what are you hoping to achieve from the show?"

"It's simple really. It sounds like a fun and competitive adventure to go on. Not only that, but I'm also hoping to win the prize money to pay for medical school."

"It seems that's your main goal," said Klara. "Well I wish you luck with your medical studies and the Island of Challenge! Thank you for speaking with us today."

"You too."

Seth Grey

Seth Grey was sent into the interviewing room next. He took a seat in front of Klara and Ryan and stretched back. "This is a comfortable seat."

Klara smiled, flashing perfect teeth. "Relax as much as you want, it's yours for now."

"All right, we're starting… Now."

"For our next interviewee we have Seth Grey! Tell me Seth, I noticed you have an official ranking in the CLAP of Voyanna Region. Ranked seven hundred and twenty five out of one thousand one hundred and twenty seven. That's pretty good for someone so young. How far have you gotten in the gym challenge?"

"Only got up to the fourth gym. Lost twice to the fifth gym leader and decided I needed more training."

"Makes sense," said Klara. "For my first question, how well do you think you'll do in the Island of Challenge?"

"Honestly, I'm somewhat confident I'll win. I know that I'm good, but there may always be someone better. You never know. I'm sure I'll stand a decent chance though."

"It's good to hear that you're confident, but not arrogant," said Ryan. "Arrogant people usually make a dumb mistake or let their guard down when it's vital. As long as you are careful and try your hardest in every battle, you're sure to go places."

"Thanks."

"So Seth, what do you hope to get out of the Island of Challenge?"

"Well, I'm hoping to have a heck of a time out of this! Journeying through one of the largest and least populated regions while doing lots of Pokémon battles sounds epic! I'm just hoping it isn't as difficult as the Calzei Region gym league."

"I can assure you it's not," said Ryan.

"Well thank you Seth for answering our questions. Good luck out there!"

Kendra Sorel

"The next person we will interview is Kendra Sorel! Tell me darling, how are you feeling about being on the Island of Challenge?"

"Fine, I guess."

"It's okay to be a bit nervous, we just want to ask a few questions for our audience before we get to the fun part. Tell me, your brother is Damein Sorel, right?"

"Yeah," said Kendra weakly.

"A very skilled Pokémon trainer. Ranked two hundred and seven if I remember correctly, and also participated in the Scarlet War."

"Yes."

"I'm sure you'd make a tough opponent for the other contenders. What kind of training and strategies does your brother use?"

"Don't pry Klara," said Ryan. "I'm sure Kendra isn't at liberty to say."

"I don't really know much myself but I guess I can't tell you anyways," said Kendra.

"Fine," said Karla with a mock pout. "Anyways, why did you sign up for the Island of Challenge?"

Kendra's heart skipped a beat as she realized she had to make something up. She hadn't meant to sign up and thought she was signing up for the Island Challenge in Alola. If she said that now, not only would she look foolish, but it could anger some other people who signed up in hopes they would make it.

"W-well uh, you see, you know how my brother is a professional battler."

The two interviewers nodded.

"I wanted to live up to him, which is um, why I signed up for this. To start myself off with a bit off, err- friendly competition?" she said, raising her voice at the last part and making it sound like a question.

"That sounds great!" said Klara happily, ignoring Klara's lackluster enthusiasm for her answer.

Ryan nodded. "Keep shooting for there. Build your confidence and I'm sure you'll go far. Thank you for your time."

Katsuya Hasegawa

"Our next interviewee is Katsuya Hacegawa!" said Klara, slowing down a bit as she fumbled over his last name.

"Hasegawa," corrected Katsuya. "Not that hard to pronounce."

"Right, I'm sorry. Anyways Katsuya, what would you say you're good at."

"Chess."

"Anything else?" asked Ryan.

"Nothing that I'd like to talk about," said Katsuya, looking towards the filming crew. One of the people behind the camera flapped one of his hands towards the two interviewers, motioning for Katsuya to focus on them.

"Well Katsuya, what would you say your Pokémon battling skills are like?" asked Klara.

"I prefer to think before telling my Pokémon what to do. Many trainers nowadays just stack moves upon moves and hope their Pokémon are strong enough. There two ways I win. Number one: Use moves strategically in order to defeat opponents easily. I'm not disclosing the second part."

"Fair enough," said Klara. "Why did you sign up for Island of Challenge."

"Cause I wanted to."

"All right Katsuya. Thank you for talking with us!"

Katsuya got up without another word and left.

Jax Ambrose

"Our fifth interviewee is Jax Ambrose! Tell me, how are you doing today?"

"I'm doing good, thank you," said Jax.

"That's good to hear, I have a few questions for you. This one is actually a special one. If you had to choose between an offensive fire type Pokémon, a defensive water Pokémon, or an in-between grass type, which one would you choose?"

"Hmm, this is actually a tough one," said Jax with a laugh. "Honestly, I think I'd pick an offensive fire type."

"What makes you say that?"

"First off, team balance is important. Having offensive and defensive Pokémon, as well as Pokémon that can fit custom roles makes for a well synergized team."

"But then wouldn't you want to opt for a balanced grass type?" asked Ryan.

"While that would make sense, my first pick for a Pokémon if I had a choice would be a strong, offensive attacker. I can build the rest of my team from there."

"Interesting opinion," Klara said, half to herself. "Another question is, when it comes to Pokémon, what would you say you're good at?"

"Well, I think I'm pretty good at raising Pokémon, especially when it comes to Pokémon coordination."

"You're a coordinator?" asked Klara, mildly surprised.

"Well, I'm not an official one. I just know what it's about and how to command my Pokémon for coordination. I honestly prefer it over battling. The complexity behind commanding your Pokémon to work together to create a beautiful synchronization of moves is really an art to me."

"Well you should definitely pursue what makes you happy. Why did you sign up for the Island of Challenge?"

"Well, it sounded fun and interesting, and my friends pushed me to sign up. In hindsight, I think it was a good idea. The premise of the competition is definitely appealing to anyone who knows about competitive battling or likes adventure."

"Indeed it does," said Ryan. "But we're out of time now, it was nice talking Jax."

Diego Sol

Diego walked up to the stage, his sword by his side. Klara looked at it with surprised interest.

"Our next interviewee is Diego Sol! Tell me Diego, what is with that sword you're carrying with you?"

"It's a real sword, and a powerful one at that. I don't know the extent of its power, or its history. All I know is that it belongs to me and can't fall into the wrong hands. I feel a special connection with it."

"That's… nice to hear," said Klara uncertainty. "Anyways, when it comes to Pokémon, what would you say you're good at."

"Battling I suppose. I don't remember much about myself. Where I come from, or my real name for that matter. I have amnesia, and I constantly do Pokémon battles to hope it will restore my memory in some way."

"I suppose that is why you signed up," said Ryan.

"Exactly."

Ryan gave a solemn nod. "Maybe I'll indulge you in a battle one day. I hope your memory comes back."

"Thank you. That is something I hope for as well."

Claire Baker

"After our very mysterious interviewee, we have a not so mysterious and well thought out Claire Baker! Good evening Claire!"

"Good evening to you too," said Claire, settling into her seat.

"All right, my first question for you is simple. I know that you are a competitive battler. Ranked six hundred and eight seven, higher than Seth. What pushed you to become a competitive battler?"

"Well, both of my parents are acre trainers, ranking in the upper three hundreds. Because of this, they pushed me to be a competitive battler myself, and I guess I have a knack for it. Pokémon are very special to me, basically my second family."

"You should always have that mindset. Pokémon are like us, extremely intelligent creatures," said Ryan. "Treating them as only tools hurts everyone."

"That's very true Ryan," said Klara. "Why did you sign up for the Island of Challenge?"

"Mostly for the competitive battle aspect. Me and my Pokémon love the thrill of battle and adventure. It's a shame that I couldn't bring my Pokémon. But on the bright side, I'll be able to make new friends!"

"It sounds like your relationship with Pokémon and your love for them is what makes you such a great trainer," said Klara, approving Claire's mindset. "Which brings me to another question. How do you feel about someone with an opposing mindset?"

Clara sighed. "Well, I can't change how people think of Pokémon. But in my opinion. Anyone who treats Pokémon ase replaceable tools or objects just makes me mad. I doubt they would know how it feels if they were abandoned or replaced simply because they weren't perfect, or weren't enough. And what defines that? Who defines that?"

"Those are all great questions, questions I'd love to discuss if we were sadly out of time. May you go far in your competition!"

Alicia Prescott

"Our final interviewee is Alicia Prescott from the Kalos Region! Heiress of Hyperion Industries! Tell us Alicia, what do you think will be the outcome of the Island of Challenge?"

"Thank you for asking Klara. It's simple really, of course I'm going to beat everyone else easily. I have had many years of training from various gym leaders and real professional battlers. Maybe I'd have a bit of trouble from Claire and maybe Kendra, but that's mostly it."

"You seem very confident-"

"Probably arrogant," muttered Ryan.

"Very confident that you will succeed in this competition," corrected Klara, elbowing Ryan.

"Well of course I am. There's a reason I'm a Prescott."

"Why do you say this?"

"We're always known to be confident and always make good decisions. That's why we're so successful. And I'm one of them. I'm talented, and very competitive. I'm also-"

"What's your take on how you treat Pokemon.?" interjected Ryan suddenly.

Alcia seemed surprised by the sudden question. "Well Pokémon are to be taken care of of course, don't you know that? I'm not like all those other trainers that treat their Pokémon poorly. That's what makes me better-"

"Good for you," sighed Ryan. "Anyways I believe that Professor Aspen is ready. Thank you for speaking with us."

All eight Pokéstars were gathered in a small room, about the size of an average living room. They sat on hard chairs as a man in a white lab coat over a plaid shirt, a uniform blond haircut, and a trimmed beard stood before them. Behind him was a tall, silver cart. Once they were all seated, he began speaking to them in a rather monotonous voice.

"Welcome. As you know, I am Professor Aspen. Head of the Rolling Hills Laboratory of Pokémon Metamorphosis, or evolution if you don't want to be technical. This prestigious laboratory is based in the Donalda Region, and we study the mysteries behind Pokémon's evolution."

"However, I am not here for that purpose. Rather, I am here as an official professor to distribute the Pokémon you'll be using to start your adventure. In this cart I have twenty one different Pokémon. These Pokémon are the Pokémon typically given to beginning select trainers by professors such as myself from different. I have conducted this ritual as a matter of fact with Pokémon from my home region. However, the Pokémon from my home region won't be appearing."

Diego raised a hand, but Professor Aspen dismissed it.

"No questions for now. I will be calling you up in a predetermined, randomized order. The pokéballs are labeled for your convenience. Please quietly choose your Pokémon when called and keep naming ceremonies and other meticulous whatevers to after everyone has received a Pokémon and I have left. Starting with: Seth Grey."

Seth smiled and pulled out a deck of cards from his pocket. Professor Aspen punched in a few numbers on a keypad and the cart opened.

Seth scanned the pokéballs and thought for a moment. He shrugged and spun his finger around before stopping and selecting the Pokémon he stopped at.

"Next is Jax Ambrose."

Jax strode forward and scanned the carts before selecting his Pokémon.

"Next is Diego Sol."

Diego walked towards the cart and selected a Pokémon instantly, already knowing which he wanted.

"Zeke Enator."

Zeke made his way to the cart and crouched down, murmuring to himself as he traced his finger over every pokéball. He spent three minutes there, deep in thought until he selected a ball, nodding to himself.

"Alicia Prescott."

Alicia skipped towards the cart and selected a pokéball. "I already know which Pokémon I'm going to pick. Together, we're better than the rest!"

Professor Aspen slowly turned his head to face her. "I thought I said to choose your Pokémon quietly. I suppose I didn't make myself clear."

Alicia huffed and went back to her seat. Professor Aspen looked back to his sheet and read another name. "Kendra Sorel."

Kendra walked over to the cart and took the first pokéball she saw.

"Claire Baker."

Claire went to the cart and smiled as she saw the Pokémon she wanted wasn't taken. She pantomimed a roar as she selected her Pokémon.

"And finally, Katsuya Hasegawa."

Katusya walked up and frowned as he saw some of the Pokémon. He picked one out and walked back to his seat.

"Thank you everyone for complying with my request. I shall take my leave now, I have a very important conference with Professor Wanona."

The moment he left, everyone burst out into conversation. Pokeballs were opened as people sent out their newly obtained Pokémon.

Claire cradled her Charmander and she walked over to Diego, who's Cyndaquil was chilling by his feet.

"Hi Diego, nice Cyndaquil you have. Are you going to nickname him?"

"I am. I haven't decided, but a certain name is calling to me. I don't know how to explain, but it's like a long lost memory is resurfacing and telling me what to call him."

"Well, take your time. Nicknames are an important matter and need to be thought-"

"All right!" shouted Seth from the corner of the room.

Everyone and their Pokémon turned to face him in surprise. He was crouching down and was talking to his new Popplio.

"By the divination power of the tarot cards! I know what to name you."

Claire slapped a hand to her face. "He can't be serious."

"I shall name you Empress! From the Empress card! Symbolizing beauty and creativity!"

Empress gave a happy shrill and clapped her flippers. Jax gave a laugh and sat back in his seat. "Well some people make quick decisions," he said, talking to his Chimchar. "I don't know what to call you yet."

His Chimchar gave a shrug before turning away to look at everyone else.

"Now that I have my Pokémon," said Alicia, presenting her Piplup. "I'll be happy to battle anyone and win."

"Here's the thing," said Katsuya, his Torchic seated on his head. "Me and my Pokémon will defeat you instantly, with the type disadvantage."

"You clearly don't understand who you're talking to."

"Aw man," said Zeke. "Don't sleep already Ga'hoole."

"Ga'hoole?" asked Jax.

"Yeah, from the book. I loved it as a kid. The author is a great writer."

"A creative name that draws inspiration from an amazing source," said Seth. "I approve!"

"Who are you to approve anything?" asked Alicia in a mocking tone.

"Your mom."

While Seth and Alicia butted heads. Claire walked over to Kendra, who was staring blankly at her Snivy, who had her tiny little hands on her hip.

"What do you think of your Pokémon?" asked Claire.

"She's fine I guess. I don't know what to call her."

"That's fine. Don't be like Seth over there."

Kendra laughed. "True to that."

At that moment, Samson walked in. He was wearing a new costume and a dazzling smile. His costume was a dazzling silver suit with baggy pants.

"Are you all ready for the Island of Challenge?"

Everyone nodded except for Kendra, who gave a weak smile.

"Are you all ready to crush each other? Cause if you are, then I have a surprise for you all!"

"Cheap tricks so that there isn't a huge gap between me and the other competitors?"

"Nope! We have a selection of twenty four gym leaders across twelve gyms, why? Because every trainer battle shall be a double battle!"

"Wait," said Jax. "Does this mean?"

"Our eight contestants shall be split into four teams!"

"You're joking," said Katsuya. "It's not funny.

"I assure you I'm not joking. I have already paired people up in teams of two by random order. I shall now read out the teams. Feel free to reach a consensus on an alternate team name."

"This can't be too bad," said Claire.

"Alicia Prescott and Seth Grey!"

Seth and Alicia's jaws dropped with outrage at the same time.

"There's no way," said Seth, turning to look at his nemesis.

"Diego Sol and Jax Ambrose."

Jax and Diego shook each other's hand in a friendly manner.

"Looks like we're teammates rather than contestants now," said Jax.

"And I'm glad for that. Remember our earlier conversation? It already seems part of my memories resurface upon choosing my Pokémon. My memories usually come back after some time, not in response to something."

"We'll keep working on it."

"Claire Baker and Zeke Enator!"

"All right Claire, ready to win this?" asked Zeke.

"Yeah, me and my Pokémon are raring to go."

Kendra stopped with a sudden realization. Katsuya also made the same realization.

"If he's the only one left," said Kendra quietly. "I can't be on a team with someone like him!"

"Katsuya Hasegawa and Kendra Sorel!"

Katsuya sighed. "With Kendra and her poké-tr-"

"Katsuya," said Samson sternly. "I don't want to have to remove you from the show, there's still time to. Don't refer to Pokémon in such ways."

Katsuya closed his eyes, then opened them. He walked past Kendra while saying a few words.

"I don't care whether you hold me back or not. I'm winning this, even if I have to leave you behind."

"All right people. We're going to rest for the night and meet your camera crew tomorrow before we head off to the Insulae Region. Make sure you get well acquainted with your partners because this show is about teamwork. Let's get some sleep folks, I'll show you the rooms."

"I hope your claims about being a professional battler are true," said Seth, speaking quietly to Alicia. "Cause I'm not just here to have fun. But you wouldn't understand what it's like. So keep outta my way and play however you want."