Chapter 61
With the Aether Foundation now back to its former state, our school routine resumed, and we found ourselves enjoying a game of baseball near the Pokémon School with Kiawe and others. However, a misjudged swing resulted in a stray ball flying off course. To our amazement, Kahili, the person who taught us the intricacies of the Flying Type Z Move, arrived and effortlessly sent the ball soaring back into play using a golf club.
"It's Kahili!" We exclaimed in surprise as she effortlessly showcased her skill. Recognizing us from our encounter at Ten Carat Hill, Kahili greeted us warmly, acknowledging our previous brief interaction.
"We didn't have a chance to chat much back then," Lillie remarked. As Professor Kukui introduced Kahili, our curiosity is piqued upon seeing her array of golf clubs, and the entire class expressed eagerness to learn about Pokémon Golf.
Guided by Kahili and her Toucannon companion, Touckey, we delved into the intricacies of the game's rules, emphasizing the importance of teamwork between Trainers and their Pokémon. Despite an experienced caddy joining us, Touckey found their expertise rather bothersome.
During the game, Kahili offered me valuable advice on perfecting my swing, while Pikachu expertly assisted in redirecting a stray ball. Shaymin surprised us all with an unexpected move aiding Mallow, and despite a shaky start, Kiawe and Marowak steadily improved. Each classmate showcased their abilities impressively.
Encouraged by Touckey's insight, Kahili realized that the essence of the game lay in fostering joy. As we tackled challenging holes, the caddy grew increasingly impressed by our class's performance. When the caddy introduced the formidable "Tenth Hole of Doom," we learned a valuable lesson about embracing failure. Strengthened by our support, Kahili faced the challenge head-on.
Navigating fierce canyon winds, Kahili's ball teetered on the brink of failure. However, with unwavering determination, she ingeniously utilized Touckey's Beak Blast ability to propel the ball back onto the green, scoring an extraordinary shot.
Recognizing that he had nothing more to impart to Kahili, the caddy departed, hinting at another challenge ahead. Later, as my classmates and I cheered Kahili on during her competitive match, we witnessed her triumphant victory, feeling a sense of pride for reigniting her passion for the game. Kahili expressed her gratitude to everyone at the Pokémon School for reminding her of the sheer enjoyment that the game could bring, proudly displaying her new trophy.
As we delve into Professor Kukui's class on constructing electrical devices, the need for specific tools arises. Lillie is tasked with retrieving a Hex Nut, and she selects one, questioning, "Is this it?"
"Yeah, but I don't recall ever using such a large hex nut," Sophocles remarks.
"There's something dangling from the bottom," Selene observes.
Before we can inspect further, the hex nut unexpectedly unleashes a Flash Cannon, stunning us all. "Wait, is that a Pokemon?" Rosa asks in astonishment.
Our attempts to check the Pokedex yield no data. Puzzled, I propose, "Could this be the first time anyone's encountered a new kind of Pokemon?"
More of these mysterious creatures are discovered in the toolbox, having seemingly consumed all the tools. Sandy, the Eevee, attempts to provoke them, prompting me to intervene by directing Pikachu to block the attack with an Electro Web, rescuing Sandy.
In a bid for assistance, I decide to contact my father while our classmates conduct experiments to discern the creatures' identity. Upon hearing the news, my Dad rushes over. However, Kiawe's Marowak inadvertently scares them away with its fiery attacks, prompting us to give chase.
The pursuit leads us to the school bell, where Komala rings the bell, drawing the creatures closer. They respond to the bell's sound, congregating around us.
Upon my father's arrival, he discerns the situation, stating, "Ah, this isn't a new Pokemon. It's a known species called Meltan."
"Meltan?" Lillie inquires.
"Yes, Meltan is a Steel-type Pokemon," my Dad confirms. "Although it's absent from the Alola Pokedex, it's documented in the National Pokedex."
Understanding this revelation, I realize that one of the Meltan has taken a liking to our slumbering Decidueye, desiring to join our team. We decide to capture it, welcoming the newfound Meltan into our fold.
Meltan: The Hex Nut Pokemon: Steel Type. It melts particles of iron and other metals found in the subsoil, so it can absorb them into its body of molten steel.
Sophocles and his trusty Vikavolt eagerly join a thrilling Vikavolt race, only to discover that his rival Horacio is also participating with his newly evolved Vikavolt. The competition kicks off with enthusiasm, but as the racers venture into the cave route, Sophocles is gripped by fear of the dark, causing him to freeze in terror. However, Vikavolt, sensing its trainer's distress, offers unwavering support, encouraging Sophocles to realize that if his Pokémon is determined to push forward, he can summon courage as well.
Amidst their journey through the cave, an unexpected interruption by Team Rocket briefly halts the race. But once the obstacles are cleared, the competition resumes with heightened vigor. Despite his initial fears, Sophocles gathers his determination, spurred on by Vikavolt's unwavering support. In a thrilling dash to the finish line, Sophocles manages to secure victory by the narrowest of margins!
As a reward for his triumph, Sophocles is presented with a prestigious Buginium Z. The excitement doesn't end there, as Hapu, impressed by Sophocles's display of bravery and skill, bestows upon him a Z-Ring, a token of recognition for his remarkable achievement in the race.
Then the Pokémon School class embarks on a fishing expedition off a reef, feeling adventurous. To explore deeper waters, we utilize Brionne's balloons, venturing farther out into the sea. Unexpectedly, our journey leads us face-to-face with the Legendary Pokémon, Kyogre. It becomes apparent that Kyogre is in distress, having been poisoned and pursued by a group of malicious Pokémon hunters.
The hunters, underestimating our group's abilities and determination, find themselves thwarted by our united efforts. Lana, quick to act, realizes the urgency of Kyogre's condition and cleverly coaxes it to ingest an Antidote, effectively healing the poisoned Legendary Pokémon. Despite this, Kyogre remains agitated and furious. In a pivotal moment, Brionne evolves into Primarina, and using its melodious voice, begins to sing a captivating and soothing melody. The enchanting song reaches Kyogre, gradually pacifying its anger. Lana, seizing the opportunity, expresses her admiration and respect for the majestic Legendary Pokémon.
This heartfelt gesture from Lana, accompanied by Primarina's enchanting song, resonates deeply with Kyogre. The Legendary Pokémon, calmed by the melody and Lana's sincere admiration, begins to ease its hostility. Eventually, a sense of understanding and tranquility prevails. As the encounter draws to a close, Lana and Primarina reflect on this extraordinary adventure, one that remains etched in their memories forever.
Mallow, faced with a shortage of Big Mushrooms at the Family Restaurant, sets off to visit our Oranguru's dwelling deep in the forest, seeking more supplies. Upon her arrival, the peaceful atmosphere swiftly transforms into a bustling hub as various Pokémon flock to the place.
Observing the sudden influx of Pokémon customers, Mallow selflessly decides to lend a hand to Oranguru. Embracing the opportunity to assist, she dedicates herself to preparing delectable dishes and refreshing drinks, catering to the diverse tastes of the Pokémon clientele. Among the customers is the revered Island Guardian, Tapu Koko, gracing the establishment with its presence. Recognizing the significance of this esteemed visitor, Mallow crafts a specially tailored dish befitting Tapu Koko's status as the Guardian of the island.
Thrilled and impressed by the scrumptious meal, Tapu Koko expresses its delight, showcasing its appreciation by gifting Mallow with a valuable Grassium Z. Additionally, as a token of gratitude for her exceptional culinary skills and generous spirit, Oranguru bestows upon Mallow a Z-Ring, signifying a bond between them.
Amid our rigorous training sessions in preparation for the upcoming Alola League, an unexpected turn of events occurs when Alice and Serena bring along Celebi, intending to aid us. However, an unforeseen mishap causes Celebi to accidentally trigger a time-traveling episode, transporting us to an era where a young Professor Kukui is accompanied by his Torracat.
Rather than being dismayed by the unexpected temporal displacement, we embrace the opportunity and decide to assist the young Professor Kukui in his quest to learn more about Pokémon moves. Immersed in the past, we immerse ourselves in a day filled with exploration, discovery, and mutual learning. As we spend time with the youthful Professor Kukui and his Torracat, our shared enthusiasm for Pokémon training and moves leads to a day brimming with joy and excitement. Together, we engage in lighthearted yet informative activities, exchanging knowledge and strategies while strengthening our bonds with Pokémon.
Today marks the commencement of the Lanakila Conference, the pinnacle of the Alola League. I muse, "Quite an unexpected choice for the League venue, nestled in this chilly locale."
"Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the RPA and the Aether Foundation, they've erected a glass dome shielding the stadiums from the cold," Lillie explains.
As the evening sets in, sign-ups commence, allowing us time to wander the village. Besides the main arena, a myriad of attractions awaits—a bustling Pokemon Center, a Shopping Mall, a Health Spa, and a collection of excellent restaurants. Accompanied by Serena and Alice, who have quickly befriended Mallow and our other classmates, we opt to explore the area together.
As we wander, we chance upon Hau and Hala, both familiar faces in this bustling setting. "Hey, good to see you all here! How's it going?" Hau greets us with his trademark enthusiasm.
"Hau! Planning to compete in the league too?" I inquire, intrigued.
"Absolutely," Hau replies, his grin infectious.
"Ever the spirited one, Ash," Hala chuckles, and we exchange greetings with him as well. Our exploration leads us to a charming restaurant where, to our surprise, the attendant turns out to be Mallow's older brother, Ulu. He reveals his decision to return to Alola and set up a pop-up store. Mallow, in turn, shares her intention to participate in the League.
Ulu beams at the news, expressing his excitement and affirming that he'll shutter the store to cheer for Mallow during her battles.
As we continue our exploration, we unexpectedly encounter Team Skull causing a bit of mischief, defacing the poster of the Masked Royal. Guzma and Plumeria make their grand entrance, Guzma declaring, "The hated boss who beats you down, and beats you down, and never lets up... Yeah. Big bad Guzma is here!"
Professor Kukui, surprised, queries, "What brings you here, Guzma?"
Guzma retorts, "Didn't you suggest I join your Pokemon League? Well, here I am, just as you wanted. These kids here taught me a thing or two, and I'm here to test my strength."
To our surprise, we learn that Plumeria, Gladion, Principal Oak, and Ilima are also participating. Later, during a hearty feast, Professor Kukui gathers everyone to elucidate the rules. "Welcome to the inaugural Alola Pokemon League," he begins.
He proceeds to showcase the League's rules via a presentation featuring the Masked Royal, who, for reasons known to us, can't attend in person and instead appears via video. The explanation reveals that participants will engage in a free-for-all, and only the final 16 contenders left standing will advance to the ultimate tournament—a Battle Royal.
Here is a new chapter, and we're going to begin the Alola League and I hope you like it. The next chapter will be the process.
Ash and Lillie's Pokemon:
Charizard x2, Butterfree x2 (One Pink), Raticate (Alolan), Pikachu, Raichu (Alolan), Sandslash (Alolan), Ninetales (Alolan), Dugtrio (Alolan), Persian (Alolan), Golem (Alolan), Muk (Alolan), Exeggutor (Alolan), Marowak (Alolan), Lapras, Meganium, Typhlosion (Hisuian), Steelix (Crystal), Mantine, Sceptile, Gardevoir (Shiny), Milotic, Absol, Infernape, Lucario, Togekiss, Gallade, Samurott, Audino, Zoroark, Hydreigon, Greninja, Meowstic x2, Aegislash, Hawlucha, Zygarde x2, Decidueye, Incineroar, Primarina, Toucannon, Gumshoos, Vikavolt, Crabominable, Oricorio, Ribombee, Lycanroc x3 (Midday/Midnight/Dusk), Wishiwashi, Toxapex, Mudsdale, Araquanid, Lurantis, Shiinotic, Salazzle (Shiny), Bewear, Tsareena, Comfey, Oranguru, Passimian, Golisopod, Palossand, Pyukumuku, Type: Null, Minior, Komala, Turtonator, Togedemaru, Mimikyu (Shiny), Bruxish, Drampa, Dhelmise, Kommo-o, Solgaleo, Lunala, Necrozma, Magearna (Shiny), Marshadow, Poipole, Zeraora, Meltan, Kleavor
