Chapter 7
As we approach the school grounds, our anticipation is abruptly halted by an unexpected sight. Lillie's gasp punctuates the moment, her surprise evident as she gestures forward. "What in the world?!"
A herd of Tauros block the path, their imposing figures a formidable barrier. "Looks like our route's obstructed by Tauros," I remark, scanning the impasse. "Good thing we were only aiming for the Trainers' School nearby."
Trenor nods in agreement, casually remarking, "Guess that's someone else's problem to sort out. We'll find another way around."
As we step into the school premises, the atmosphere hums with the energy of aspiring trainers engrossed in their exercises. We exchange glances and mutually decide it's an opportune moment to sharpen our skills. Settling into the routine, we initiate our training regimen.
However, our focus wavers when a distinct sight catches our attention—a striking Alolan Meowth, its sleek form contrasting against the backdrop of the bustling training area.
"An Alolan Meowth..." Lillie observes, her voice trailing off as she takes note of the distinct features. "Now a Dark type. This one must be quite cunning..."
Nate's curiosity interjects the moment. "Speaking of Meowth, what happened to the one that belonged to Team Rocket?" he asks, directing his question towards me.
I recall the past events. "Ah, that Meowth is part of the family now," I explain, reflecting on the peculiar turn of events. "After some memory erasure, Meowsie gradually started to bond with him."
The Alolan Meowth's interest in us quickly escalates into a challenge, its eyes gleaming with mischief as it taunts us, clearly eager for a battle. "No problem," I respond confidently. "Pikachu, Quick Attack!"
But before Pikachu can execute the move, Alolan Meowth surprises us all by using Feint, halting Pikachu's attack in its tracks. A sudden twist in the battle catches us off guard.
Then, to our astonishment, instead of targeting Pikachu, Alolan Meowth aims a Thunderbolt directly at us. "Hey! What's that for?" I exclaim, taken aback by the unexpected turn.
Continuing its assault, Alolan Meowth lunges forward with a Scratch attack, but Zoroark swiftly retaliates, countering with a precise Night Slash that connects with the elusive feline.
Realizing the need to step up our game, I decide it's time for a powerful move. "Let's go for the Z Move! 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt!" I command. Alolan Meowth's widened eyes betray its attempt to escape, but it's too late. The overwhelming force strikes, sending a surge of electricity towards the Alolan Meowth, leaving it vulnerable. I seize the opportunity, swiftly throwing a Pokéball, capturing it as the electric energy disperses.
Meowth (Alolan Form): The Scratch Cat Pokemon: Dark Type. This Pokémon was not originally found in Alola. Human actions caused a surge in their numbers, and they went feral. They're prideful and crafty.
"So, you've managed to capture that Meowth," Professor Kukui remarks as we settle into the classroom. "That Meowth has been causing quite a stir in the school."
"Indeed, but I have a feeling it won't be easy to get it to cooperate with that cunning demeanor," I murmur, contemplating the recent encounter and the challenges the spirited Alolan Meowth might pose.
During our break, at Selene's urging, we decide to assist her in finding a new Pokémon partner. Following her lead, we find ourselves navigating through the outskirts until we stumble upon a garbage dump, where an abundance of green-colored Grimers congregates.
"Look at those Grimers! They're so cute!" Selene exclaims, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the peculiar Pokémon.
"Although Grimer used to feed on sludge, not trash... I suppose that's one of the differences," I remark, noticing the shift in their usual habitat.
"Nevertheless, there does seem to be an abundance of Dark-type Pokémon around the school," Lillie points out, her gaze fixed on passing Zorua and Rattata.
Considering our options, we decide to capture one of the Grimers, recognizing its potential as a valuable addition to our team.
Grimer (Alolan Form): The Sludge Pokemon: Poison and Dark Type. There are a hundred or so of them living in Alola's waste-disposal site. They're all hard workers who eat a lot of trash.
As we go about our business, a sudden burst of excitement interrupts our activities. A clamor of cheering fans draws our attention to a boy with vivid pink hair strolling confidently through the school grounds. His presence seems to command attention.
"Alola, hi there, Professor," the boy greets as he approaches our group.
"Who's that?" I inquire, intrigued by the commotion he caused.
"That's Ilima! He's a Pokemon School graduate and also a Trial Captain," Mallow explains, her voice tinged with admiration for the visitor.
"What a pleasant surprise. When did you return?" Professor Kukui inquires, expressing his delight at seeing Ilima again.
"I just got back this morning. Apologies for not coming by earlier to say hello. I had some errands to attend to," Ilima responds politely.
"No worries. I'm aware that Principal Oak has been eager to have a word with you," Professor Kukui informs Ilima, acknowledging the pending meeting.
After they leave, Lillie says, "What a popular person."
As the chatter among our classmates fills the air, tales and anecdotes about Ilima begin to surface. Whispers of his legendary feats and stories of his time at the Pokemon School and the Kalos Region University circulate through the group. I listen intently, absorbing the fascinating details about this renowned figure.
However, amidst the admiration and awe, a peculiar comment catches my attention. Someone mentions something about Ilima's ability to make Komala's eyes open wide, a detail that surprises me. It contradicts what I know about Komala, as their eyes are typically always closed.
"Are you perhaps Ash Ketchum? It's an honor to meet you," Ilima addresses me as we approach him.
"It's a pleasure to meet you too, Ilima. So, I suppose you've heard of me?" I respond, curious about the recognition.
"Of course, I stayed at the Kalos Region University, although now it's shifted to distant learning due to the safety concerns in Kalos," Ilima explains. "There's talk about Team Flare causing trouble, attempting to involve Zygarde in some mess or another."
A sense of disappointment washes over me as I let out a sigh. "Ah, that... I'm sorry you had to endure that turmoil," I express sympathetically, acknowledging the chaos that had engulfed the Kalos region due to Team Flare's actions involving the Legendary Pokémon Zygarde.
"I couldn't help but notice your battles in the Kalos League. Your style in battle was truly delightful, which led me to seek you out here," Ilima compliments me with a genuine smile.
"Wait, so you're here to see me as well?" I inquire, a hint of confusion in my tone.
"Ash's prowess in battles is quite impressive, especially being the six-region champion. And Lillie, who shares the Champion of Sinnoh with Ash, holds her own too," Professor Kukui interjects proudly. "Selene is a newcomer, but mark my words, she's destined for greatness as a Trainer, yeah!"
"I'm honored! I eagerly anticipate showcasing my battling skills in your trial," Ilima responds warmly, acknowledging the forthcoming challenge.
"And you're a Trial Captain, correct?" Trenor adds, seizing the opportunity to clarify Ilima's role.
"Indeed! We captains oversee the trials you must complete before challenging the island kahunas. My specific trial takes place in Verdant Cavern—the trial of Captain Ilima," Ilima explains, his voice laced with enthusiasm. "Pokémon can be found in various places, including the tall grass patches in Hau'oli City. It might be a good idea to strengthen your team before taking on my trial. I eagerly anticipate your challenge."
As our conversation with Ilima continues, we notice the charming presence of an Eevee by his side. Despite Eevee's potential to evolve into various forms, Ilima seems intent on keeping it in its current state.
"I have a special bond with Eevee. It might not evolve, but it's still a powerful partner," Ilima shares, a hint of pride in his voice. He then reveals a Z-Crystal specifically meant for Eevee—the Eevium-Z. "I just acquired this on Akala Island. I prefer to keep Eevee the way it is, even with the power offered by this Z-Crystal."
After our conversation, Ilima mentions that he needs to return home, bidding us farewell as he departs, Eevee trotting faithfully by his side. His commitment to maintaining Eevee's current form despite the allure of evolution and the power of Z-Moves leaves an impression on us as he heads on his way.
A teacher interrupts our activities, informing us about the Tauros obstructing the road. The news comes with a silver lining—someone has already alerted Hala, who is on the way to handle the situation. This development signifies that the path to Hau'oli City will be clear after school.
As the six of us make our way along the road, Selene shares her admiration for my dedication during battles at the Trainers' School. "You know... I was really impressed seeing how you battled with your Pokémon at the Trainers' School... It feels like you're really giving it your all for your Pokémon's sake... I think that's why you were able to save Nebby that time, Ash."
"That's really kind of you to say. Speaking of Nebby..." Lillie remarks, casting a glance at her bag where Nebby is still sound asleep. "Yep, still snoozing away in there."
As we continue, we encounter Hau and Hala handling the Tauros. Hala warmly greets us, "Ho! If it isn't you guys. Sorry for scaring you, friend. I guess it's time I get old Tauros back home. Oh! But why don't you give him a little pat first?"
"We can pat the Tauros?" I exclaim, excited at the prospect.
We proceed to pat the Tauros, eliciting a cheerful moo from the Pokémon. Hala explains, "Ha ha ha! You see that? This rascal already loves you! Pokémon become happier when we show them some care."
Before departing with the Tauros, Hala imparts some wise words. "Wa ha ha! Oh the places you'll go, child! And as you do, you will surely meet more Pokémon and people who will enrich your life."
"The kahunas sure are something, eh? Able to calm a raging Pokémon without even needing to battle... Now that's something! I mean, I like Tauros plenty and all... but it is pretty scary! I don't want to ride on it!" Hau says.
His hesitation to ride on Tauros prompts a lighthearted comment about the numerous Tauros in Normal Type Manor, which I dismiss with a muttered plea not to delve into that topic.
"So where are you off to now?" Hau then inquires about our plans, to which Trenor replies, "We're just thinking that we should look around Hau'oli City a bit. I mean, since we've just finished our classes in school."
"Nice idea! You're always on top of things! Then let me tag along, too! I wanna go get something good to eat!" Hau eagerly volunteers.
"Alright, let's all head there together," I agree.
With Hau dashing ahead, urging us to follow, Lillie sighs, commenting, "Oh, Hau... I guess we should go catch up with him before he gets too far. Hau'oli City is the biggest city in all of Alola."
We all agree to catch up with Hau before he ventures too far ahead, and with that decision made, we set off in pursuit of Hau's energetic lead toward Hau'oli City.
And here is another chapter, we're introduced to Ilima and now Ash and the others are heading towards the Hau'oli City in the next chapter. I hope you like this chapter.
Ash and Lillie's Pokemon:
Charizard, Butterfree x2 (One Pink), Rattata (Alolan), Pikachu, Raichu (Alolan), Meowth (Alolan), Grimer (Alolan), Lapras, Meganium, Typhlosion (Hisuian), Steelix (Crystal), Mantine, Sceptile, Gardevoir (Shiny), Milotic, Absol, Infernape, Lucario, Togekiss, Gallade, Samurott, Audino, Zoroark, Hydreigon, Meowstic x2, Aegislash, Hawlucha, Rowlet, Popplio, Pikipek, Yungoos, Grubbin, Magearna (Shiny), Kleavor