Chapter 62

On the inaugural day of the Pokemon League, the attendance seemed to have swelled with eager participants. Amidst the excitement, Acerola, with an enigmatic smile, greeted us but admitted she wasn't there to join the League, leaving us puzzled.

"Why aren't you competing?" I inquired, curious about her unexpected absence. Acerola's smirk hinted at a forthcoming revelation. "You'll find out soon enough," she replied.

Professor Kukui initiated the proceedings, welcoming both the League contenders and the enthusiastic crowd, officially inaugurating the Manalo Conference. The announcer took the stage, introducing the League's official judges: the four esteemed island kahunas - Olivia, Hala, Hapu, and Nanu. Explaining the format, it was revealed that 151 trainers were vying for the prestigious title of Alola League Winner, their journey to narrow down to the Top 16 through a series of Battle Royal-style matches.

The competitors assumed their positions, forming a vibrant array around the battlefield's perimeter. With a synchronized gesture from the island kahunas, a countdown commenced, accompanied by a chorus of trainers summoning their faithful Pokémon partners.

As the countdown hit zero, signaling the start of the preliminary round at the Manalo Conference, Lillie and I delved into intense battles against various trainers. Our dedication and the formidable power of the Z Crystals bolstered our performance, granting us a significant edge in the matches. Victorious in multiple encounters, we secured our places among the top contenders, earning spots within the coveted Top 16.

Amidst our accomplishment, a glance around revealed a heartening sight - our classmates, along with familiar faces like Guzma, Hau, Gladion, Principal Oak, Ilima, and Mina, had also advanced into the prestigious stage of the competition.

The matchups for the next stage were announced, setting the stage for intense battles: My first challenge was slated against Rosa, while Ilima was set to face off against Guzma. Surprising tension filled the air as Lillie discovered she was to compete against Gladion, her own brother. Alongside these matchups, the roster revealed equally gripping battles: Hau was paired against Principal Oak, Mallow against Lana, Sophocles against Mina, Selene against Trenor, and Kiawe against Nate. Each match posed a unique test, promising riveting displays of strategy, skill, and determination from all the competitors. The array of matchups indicated that every battle ahead would demand our utmost effort to navigate the competition successfully.

"Battle against my brother?" Lillie exclaimed in disbelief, clearly taken aback by the unexpected matchup.

"Seems like it's going to be quite the challenge for all of us," I remarked, acknowledging the formidable opponents lined up for each of us.


The Top 16 are actually one-on-one battles, Rosa and I are in the first match, Rosa decides to go for Malamar, and I decide to go for Shiinotic. Rosa's Malamar lunged forward, aiming a powerful Psycho Cut at Shiinotic, who swiftly dodged the attack with a graceful sidestep. Unfazed by the miss, Malamar followed up with a swift Topsy-Turvy, attempting to disorient Shiinotic's strategies. However, Shiinotic, being accustomed to such tactics, swiftly countered with a dazzling Moonblast, forcing Malamar to retreat hastily to evade the radiant burst.

"Now use Psybeam!" Malamar attempted a Psybeam, aiming directly at Shiinotic. Remaining calm and collected, Shiinotic takes the hit, but with a Strength Sap, it recovers all the health while lowering Malamar's power. When it tries Psycho Cut again, I smirk as the Ability Effect Spore is in effect. Shiinotic then uses Dazzling Gleam, knocking the Malamar out.

In the second round, Ilima Mega Evolve his Kangaskhan AND initially dominates with Power-Up Punch and Rock Slide, but Guzma's Scizor tactically exploits their dual attacks and positioning advantage, ultimately overwhelming Kangaskhan's defenses, securing Guzma's victory. In the stands, the Team Skull Grunts celebrate and Ilima's fan girls cry in disappointment, while the announcer exclaims his surprise at the front-runner getting defeated on the first round.

"Astounding skills," Alice remarks, acknowledging Guzma's prowess.

"Absolutely," Serena concurs, expressing her agreement with a nod.

In the electrifying clash between Hau's Alolan Raichu and Samson Oak's towering Alolan Exeggutor for the third round, Raichu's agility reigns supreme, effortlessly outpacing its elongated opponent. Hau commands a potent Thunderbolt, yet Exeggutor steadfastly withstands the onslaught. Seizing the moment, Samson directs Exeggutor to retaliate with a forceful Dragon Hammer. However, Raichu swiftly evades the lumbering strike with a nimble Quick Attack, swiftly followed by a devastating Focus Blast. The intense burst of energy causes the towering Exeggutor to falter and succumb to defeat, a testament to Raichu's strategic agility and powerful strikes.

In a captivating showdown, Mallow's Tsareena faces off against Lana's Primarina, launching a barrage of attacks countered by Lana's strategic prowess, utilizing unexpected Ice moves. Tsareena valiantly persists, showcasing resilience even when recalling her failures, driven by the bond with Mallow. Determined to win together, Mallow and Tsareena unleash their Z-Move, Bloom Doom, met fiercely by Lana's Oceanic Operetta, culminating in a spectacular clash that ends with Tsareena succumbing to exhaustion, resulting in Lana's victory, a moving testament to their unyielding bond on the battlefield.

Once Sophocles's match begins, his Vikavolt pursues Mina's Ribombee through the sky. Vikavolt uses Zap Cannon, but Ribombee easily dodges it. After a quick dive and change of direction, Ribombee throws a series of Pollen Puffs and strikes Vikavolt several times. After the bombardment, Ribombee tosses Vikavolt into the battlefield with Psychic. Vikavolt quickly recovers and uses another Zap Cannon, but Ribombee again dodges it. In its moment of disorientation, Vikavolt zips behind and grabs a hold of Ribombee with its mandibles. With its opponent immobilized, Vikavolt defeats it with a close-range Signal Beam.

"Brother, working here?" Selene's surprise reflected in her eyes as Elio, accompanied by his Incineroar, appeared unexpectedly.

"Yeah, working as league staff for Professor Kukui," Elio replied with a smirk. "Counting on your victory, sis. Make us proud."

Grinning at her brother's unexpected appearance and encouraging words, Selene turned her attention to her upcoming battle against Trenor, ready to give her best performance in the League.

Trenor's Swampert initiated the battle with a powerful Hydro Pump, but Selene's Alola Muk skillfully absorbed the attack with its sturdy defenses. As the clash continued, Swampert attempted to gain an advantage with Earthquake, but Alola Muk countered with its own Gunk Shot, effectively nullifying the impact. Recognizing the stalemate, Selene contemplated a strategic move, yet before she could act, Trenor and Swampert astutely adapted their tactics. Sensing Alola Muk's impending attack, Swampert swiftly executed a well-timed Ice Punch, breaching through Alola Muk's defenses and weakening its resilience. With an overwhelming surge, Swampert unleashed a mighty Muddy Water, overwhelming Alola Muk and clinching Trenor the hard-earned victory, leaving Selene acknowledging the superior strategy and power of her opponent.

"Seems like it wasn't my day..." Selene sighed in a moment of disappointment. However, her spirits lifted as Elio approached her, offering a comforting hug and expressing his pride in her efforts, bringing a heartfelt smile to everyone's faces.

Kiawe's Marowak faces off against Nate's formidable Bouffalant. As the battle commences, Bouffalant charges forward with a powerful Head Charge, but Marowak skillfully deflects the attack using its bone club. Nate orders Bouffalant to follow up with Megahorn, yet Marowak swiftly evades, countering with a precise Bonemerang that smashes into Bouffalant, disrupting its momentum. In response, Bouffalant retaliates with a fierce Wild Charge, which Marowak intercepts with a Shadow Bone, absorbing the attack's impact and retaliating in kind. As the battle intensifies, Bouffalant unleashes a devastating Earthquake, but Marowak expertly leaps into the air, avoiding the tremors before landing a powerful Iron Head on Bouffalant, staggering the colossal Pokémon. Rallying for a final exchange, Bouffalant charges a powerful Headbutt, but Marowak, infused with determination, redirects the attack using its bone club, countering with a Shadow Ball that strikes Bouffalant head-on, followed by a resounding Shadow Bone, securing Kiawe's victory and advancement in the tournament.

"Gladion, I have a favor to ask. Please don't hold back during our battle. Snowy and I are going to give everything we've got. So I'm asking you to do the same," Lillie requests.

"I know, that's my original plan anyway, considering that you're also a Champion," Gladion replies.

Lillie's Snowy confronts Gladion's formidable Porygon-Z in a clash of contrasting abilities. As the battle ensues, Snowy takes charge, summoning a cascade of hail to envelop the battlefield, embracing the wintry conditions to her advantage. Gladion commands Porygon-Z to initiate the assault with a torrent of Tri Attacks, yet Snowy expertly maneuvers amidst the icy tempest, utilizing her Snow Cloak Ability to evade the attacks with graceful finesse. Determined to maintain momentum, Gladion directs Porygon-Z to unleash a devastating Zap Cannon, but Snowy, bolstered by her resolve, counters fiercely. In a resplendent display, Snowy harnesses her Z-Power, unleashing the chilling force of the Subzero Slammer, overwhelming Porygon-Z and securing Lillie a hard-fought victory in their intense battle.

"Gladion, looks like I won against you this time," Lillie expresses with a hint of triumph in her voice.

"I have no regrets; with Ash, you've really become strong," Gladion replies, acknowledging Lillie's growth as a Trainer with a smile.


In the Top 8, the initial round pits Trenor against Lillie, followed by my battle against Hau in the second round. Sophocles faces Kiawe in the third round, while the final match showcases Lana squaring off against Guzma.

It is still one-on-one battles, which surprises us since in the other regions, the Top 8 is for 3-on-3 battles and even full battles. In the intense showdown, Lillie's Toucannon takes the initiative, launching an incisive Beak Blast towards Trenor's imposing Palossand. However, the agile Palossand swiftly dodges the attack, appearing unscathed. Despite Toucannon's resilience, it shows signs of weariness. Sensing the looming threat, Trenor commands Palossand to amplify its defenses using Stockpile. Recognizing the crucial moment, Lillie opts for a strategic move, executing Toucannon's Z-Move, the Supersonic Skystrike. Palossand retaliates with its own Z-Move, the Continental Crush, attempting to hurl a massive boulder toward Toucannon.

In a spectacle of overwhelming power, the two Z-Moves clash fiercely, creating a seismic force. However, Lillie's Toucannon, fueled by unwavering determination, manages to overpower Palossand's assault, emerging victorious from the clash. Seizing the opportunity, Toucannon swiftly launches a series of precise Bullet Seeds, overwhelming Palossand's defenses and securing Lillie the hard-earned victory in the match.

Hau reflects, "You know what? After I finally had that serious battle with my old gramps and won, something really hit me. You're sort of my hero, Ash! You and your team, I mean! And because I truly look up to you, I really want to engage in a serious battle! Winning against you means a lot to me. It's way more fun when Pokémon and their Trainers are friends, getting along. Together, we can achieve something really incredible!"

"I couldn't agree more," I replied with a smile, acknowledging the sentiment and the shared passion for friendly yet competitive battles.

Amidst the high-flying battle between my Decidueye and Hau's Decidueye, the intense clash of tactics and prowess unfolds.

Hau's Decidueye initiates with Razor Leaf, swiftly countered as my Decidueye elegantly dodges. "Let's go, Decidueye! Seed Bomb attack!" I command, watching my Pokémon launch the assault. However, Hau's Decidueye effortlessly deflects the attack with Leaf Blade.

Feeling the momentum, I exclaim, "Decidueye, it's time for Bloom Doom!" Hau's Decidueye swiftly ascends, skillfully evading the impending Z-Move. "Predictable, Ash!" Hau remarks confidently, revealing his awareness of my strategy. His Decidueye retaliates with a Spirit Shackle, aiming to pin mine down, but it cleverly substitutes with its cloak, surprising Hau.

"Impressive, Hau! But we're not finished yet," I assert as our Decidueyes engage in an intense aerial dance.

As the battle intensifies, Hau commands, "Go for Leaf Blade!" My Decidueye deftly dodges the strike, prompting Hau to order a series of Razor Leaf barrages. "Hang in there, Decidueye! Evade and counter!" I encourage, noticing Hau's strategy.

"I see what you're planning, Ash!" Hau remarks, recognizing my setup for Brave Bird. Meanwhile, my Toucannon and the flock cheer on, supporting Decidueye's tactics.

Our Decidueyes continue their flurry of moves, clashing fiercely. "Hold your ground, Decidueye! Use Feather Dance!" I command, ensuring reduced damage. Amid the chaos, my Decidueye positions itself for a critical strike. "Now, Decidueye! Brave Bird attack!" I shout, seeing the opening.

Hau reacts swiftly, but it's too late. "Counter it, Decidueye!" he calls out. With precise precision, my Decidueye's Brave Bird strikes Hau's Decidueye directly, knocking it out.

As the dust settles, our Decidueye stands firm, victorious. "Great battle, Hau! Your Decidueye kept us on our toes," I commend, extending my hand in respect.

"Likewise, Ash! Your Decidueye's moves were unpredictable," Hau acknowledges, acknowledging the fierce duel. "We managed to pull off something pretty amazing, when my partners and I were all in sync and wanting the same thing. But looks like we're still one step away from being the strongest Trainer and team! But you know what's funny? Even though we lost, that was more exciting than any other battle I've ever had till now! Everything's all mixed up inside me—it was so fun and so frustrating, and just... Yup! It was just awesome, really!"

For the third match, Kiawe and Sophocles face off with their Charizard and Vikavolt, respectively. The battle kicks off with Charizard's Flamethrower, dodged swiftly by Vikavolt. Sophocles, determined and unfazed, urges Vikavolt on, despite the initial missteps. Charizard attempts a Fire Punch, countered by Vikavolt's String Shots, but the maneuvers are deftly avoided by the flying Pokémon. The clash intensifies as Charizard prepares an Aerial Ace, yet Vikavolt surprises Kiawe by switching to Zap Cannon, striking Charizard and seizing the moment for a powerful Savage Spin-Out, entangling Charizard in sticky threads.

Though Vikavolt's Savage Spin-Out lands successfully, Charizard breaks free with searing flames, showing resilience despite the earlier paralysis. Sophocles notices Charizard's vulnerability and commands Vikavolt to continue its onslaught, capitalizing on the residual effects of paralysis. Vikavolt's threads ensnare Charizard momentarily, but Kiawe's Pokémon manages to fend off the entanglement with precise attacks. The intense exchange continues, with Vikavolt's persistence and Charizard's endurance on full display. In a final show of strength, Kiawe infuses Charizard with Z-Power, unleashing a resounding Supersonic Skystrike. Despite Vikavolt's valiant effort, it succumbs to Charizard's overwhelming force, succumbing to defeat in an exhilarating clash.

In the heated clash between Lana's Primarina and Guzma's Golisopod, Lana cautiously prepares for Golisopod's anticipated First Impression. To her surprise, Golisopod remains motionless, lulling Lana into a false sense of security. As Lana commands Primarina to unleash Sparkling Aria, Golisopod swiftly counters with Throat Chop, silencing Primarina's voice. Despite Lana's efforts with Aqua Jet, Golisopod expertly blocks the attack and seizes the opportunity, unleashing a ruthless series of Poison Jabs, inflicting damage and poisoning Primarina. Golisopod's relentless assault continues, rendering Primarina debilitated and weakened by poison, despite its attempts to retaliate with Icy Wind.

With a resilient stand, Lana vows the battle isn't over, rallying Primarina's spirit. Guzma directs Golisopod to assault with Pin Missile, but Lana's strategic Surf move halts the attack and ensnares Golisopod's legs in ice. Despite Primarina seemingly regaining its voice, Golisopod's Liquidation slashes through Primarina's Oceanic Operetta, ultimately overpowering and defeating Lana's Primarina in an intense battle of strength and strategy.


Here is a new chapter, and this wraps up the first part of the League. I hope you like it and the next chapter will be the second part.

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