Alola everyone! Next update is here!
A few days over, but the 2nd of March was the one-year anniversary of A Hui Hou Kakou! In the timeline between then and this own update, I've realized my own ambition and have begun to start on a new journey towards the thing I want to make a career out of.
And through balancing work, browsing institutions and my "nonexistent" social life, I'm still able to write a fanfiction that I've had the most fun in writing for a LONG time! In fact, I can't even remember the last I was grinning like a maniac when brainstorming. Those of you that converse with me know exactly what I'm talking about. Those that don't, you're not missing much, but you also have NO idea how much fun I'm having here!
Since this story's inception; it has become my second most popular fic after Advanced Commando, despite this being almost two and a half times longer. However I'm confident that this one will definitely trump all of its statistics since there's still plenty of story left!
Whenever I look back, I am completely floored by the overwhelming amount of support I've gotten through the views, favorites and follows, but most especially all the reviews. Everyone plays a part in making A Hui Hou Kakou my pleasure to write and entertain; from all of those awesome people who comment/critique on every of my updates as well as the others who favorite, follow but silently read. I see you guys too and can't thank you all enough.
Without further ado. Let's get to the chapter before my praise start going on about how your reviews can turn water into wine...
The Pro Day thing happened right after the Battle Royal! Wow! Much of it was kind of disappointing since I was hoping to see a lot of basketball being played, but I actually got my wish later on! Elio looks really small compared to Ed and I have to admit that the apparel he wore kind of suits him…almost as if he's made for that! You go Elio! Show Alola and the world that you're more than just a brave, handsome and skilled pokemon trainer. You're also a brave, handsome and skilled basketball player too!
Dear Lillie,
Royal Avenue is something else huh? You sure you don't want to come and see the Sensational Sisters on their water show tour? They're supposedly coming later this year. The Cerulean City gym leader Misty is the youngest of them, but she runs the gym instead of traveling. I promised her I'd challenge her to a battle when I become a trainer and I hope she hasn't forgotten.
But first thing's first! The Pro Day! Ed and I are going to be partners in his skills showcase and it's going to be broadcasted around the Alola region! Be sure to catch yours truly being an awesome point guard! (that's the position I play in basketball)
I also noticed something interesting too during the Battle Royal match. Yes the Masked Royal is pretty cool, but I swear he looks and talks just like Professor Kukui. Is it true that's some alter ego or something? If it's not, then can you ask him if he knows the Royal by any chance? Anyway…that's not it, even though it's still strange…oh why am I still dwelling on this?! Okay…anyway…I have to stop repeating that. Leilani seems to be a very enthusiastic cheerleader for Hau when he was out there battling. He didn't win, but she made sure he wasn't going to be down about it and Ed seemed to be poking fun about her little crush on him. That makes me think that she might like Hau more than me. What do you think? I might go and get something to maybe win her back!
I miss you.
Sincerely,
Elio
Today had been strange for Lillie. Professor Kukui didn't stop by to do any early morning field work and it was the first day in a long time she actually had nothing to do.
Nebby had resorted to being more active in the evening and night, being all excited for some unknown reason before tucking itself inside her duffel and sleeping for most of the day.
It felt strange too about not having to tell it to stay inside.
After having another room service breakfast, she decided to lay back down on her bed. A hand found the remote and she turned on the television, flipping between channels that were broadcasting some drama shows, commercials for the local malasada shop and the Battle Royal between Hau, Masked Royal, Hala and Gladion.
Wait, where's Elio?
Gladion?!
Her body froze like ice as she hesitantly grabbed the remote again and turned it back to the channel.
There he stood, wearing ripped dark and red clothing and an rebellious hairstyle that would make her mother flip out if she ever saw it. But she knew that face…those eyes.
Tears threatened to well up in her eyes. She didn't know if they were from sadness or overjoy.
Her brother was okay. Gladion was okay!
For the longest time nobody dared to move. The four contestants were creating a rising tension quickly amongst themselves and the spectating crowd.
It was Hau who decided to make the first move. "Dartrix, use peck on Kazuhiro!"
With a loud screech, the blade quill pokemon accelerated forward, swooping down with a glowing beak.
"Fake out." Was all Hala had to respond before the large hariyama clapped its hands together the moment Dartrix had dived for the strike. Caught right in between, the owl wobbled in flight before crashing to the ground.
"Now use arm thrust!"
Kazuhiro branched out his arms and was about to hit the struggling Dartrix when it was struck by two separate tackles. Rockruff from the Royal's side had done some damage while Null's larger body mass was enough to knock it into the side of the ring. Immediately an invisible green barrier shield flared to life as it hit the edge, fading away as the crowd oohed at witnessing the action.
I was almost thinking Gladion was going to go after Hau there. Elio thought as he watched from his seat.
"So hold on," Ed started. "Does this mean that it's a three on one?"
"Not exactly." Leilani said. "Remember while you are free to attack anyone else in the ring; however it's quite common that two or three contestants will gang up on another because they pose a bigger threat."
"Right." Elio added. "So if that hariyama's a fighting type, then it means that Dartrix has the best chance to take it down. It poses a threat to Rockruff since it's rock and possibly that experiment called Null which means it's likely weak somewhere to fighting moves."
She nodded. "Exactly. We call those "silent alliances" because it's mutually beneficial against a common enemy. Now do expect both of them to target Hau once Kahuna Hala has been eliminated."
Back down on the ring, Kazuhiro shook off the effects and assumed a low stance.
"Very interesting." Hala called out to his three opponents. "You all see me as the biggest threat. Good. Because I am."
"And that's why we're all after you kahuna!" The Royal spun around. "Now use tackle on Null!"
Gladion was more than ready, barking at his beast to lumber aside. Despite its large and heavy appearance, it shifted easily to dodge the charging attack. He saw Kazuhiro and Dartrix clash in another intense battle of pecks and arm thrusts. As much as he wanted to personally see Hau put down to prove his point, he needed him still in the game to take care of both Rockruff and the hariyama, the latter of which was more dangerous.
I can take on the dartrix and rockruff. But it's the hariyama that's the problem. That's my top priority.
"Aerial ace on hariyama!"
With a furious roar, Null's body clanked together as he lunged forward. At the same time, Dartrix jumped towards them, jabbing the larger pokemon's side with a peck. Hala's massive fighting type stumbled, but its endurance was showing as it refused to go down.
The Royal was getting ready for another round, tossing a rock throw into Hau's direction. The owl retaliated with flinging its wing and releasing a volley of razor sharp quills.
With its hind legs, the rockruff propelled itself above the blades, but Null had been too slow to avoid it. The creature's thick hide and armored head managed to absorb and splinter the quills, however some damage had been done.
Gladion growled in annoyance and clutched his arm. A low whine from Null was almost unheard, but it indicated to him that his partner was fine and willing to continue.
Hala had finished with his hariyama, who had backed itself into a corner and glowing red while enhancing its strength. When the bulk up had finished, he pointed at Dartrix, already shouting additional orders. Hariyama's large glove hand flung out in a shovel type pass. A white stone flew out with incredible speed.
Despite Hau yelling at Dartrix to dodge; the bird was hit on the right wing with the stone and the super effective move caused it to plummet back down to the arena's floor.
The crowd let out a gasp.
"And now you are all battling on my terms." Hala said, all while assuming a squatted competitive stance. "Kazuhiro, use bulldoze!"
"HARRI!" With incredible strength and agility, he jumped up into the air a good ways and slammed his feet into the floor. The ensuing shockwave covered its entirety, shaking out the other three combatants. Rockruff and Null were unable to withstand the blast and collapsed, however they both rebounded with the latter doing so rather quickly. Dartrix merely stumbled back, shaking it off at his trainer's encouragement.
"Hold on a moment." Elio went wide eyed as he remembered his move typing effectiveness. "I thought bulldoze is a ground move. Dartrix is part flying…how does that work?"
"That izzz correct!" Rotom replied. "Accezzing move database! Bzzt! Bulldoze izzz a ground type move that can deal damage to multiple foez and slow them down! Bzzt!"
"Yes I know that. So then how did Hala's hariyama manage to hit Dartrix?"
"Analyzing! Bzzt!" His screen shuffled to a recording of the battle not thirty seconds ago. "Move found! Bzzt! That izzz smack down! It'zzz a rock type move that can deal damage and cause flying typezzz and pokemon with levitate ability to fall and be vulnerable to ground movezzz now."
"That must be why Hala did that." Leilani said, still focusing on the battle. "Hariyama isn't the fastest pokemon and since bulldoze can slow the enemy down, he can level the playing field in terms of speed. But he needed to find a way to keep Hau in check because it's the only pokemon strong against him. Bringing him to the ground makes it open that everyone will have falling speed since bulldoze can attack multiple opponents."
"That'zz right! And Elio will need to help Rufflet dodge that kind of move! It pozez the biggezt threat to him!"
"Wow…talk about genius."
Leilani almost laughed out loud. "Yeah. You thought Hala was a pushover? Wait until you battle him when he's serious."
"Null, use flame charge on Dartrix!"
Hau spotted the flaming pokemon running his way, but he also saw that Royal's rockruff was a bit dazed still.
It has to be almost down by now. Let's see if I can score a knockout!
"Peck on rockruff!"
"DAR!"
The two paths nearly intersected, with Null missing the Dartrix by roughly a foot. It stopped and turned back around, surrounding itself with embers and running forward again.
A razor leaf sent his way did nothing to damage it, as the flames quickly caught onto the flammable projectiles, burning them up well before they reached him. However Null did have to momentarily break charge to avoid them directly shot.
If I can catch up to Hau; I can take both it and the rockruff down. That will just leave me and the kahuna's hariyama.
Gladion didn't see that Hala and Kazuhiro had recovered. Before he knew it, the creature slammed its arm into Null's side like a hammer with incredible force. Null was knocked off his feet and skidded into the arena's side with a loud crash. To his relief, he saw the hind paw flail in the cloud of dust that was kicked up as Null used the motion to slowly, but surely roll back on its feet.
"Let's go for the kill Dartrix!" Hau pumped a fist. "Leafage on rockruff!"
With a loud "Dar-trixxx!" he swept his wings together, unleashing a handful of feathery leaves that pelted the puppy pokemon. The super effective move was too much for it and it crashed down onto the arena mat, out cold.
"Ooh! And Hau Kealoha upsets the Masked Royal with a super effective leafage attack!" The MC boomed into the microphone, eliciting more cheers to come from the crowd. "We've got our first knockout of the match! Only three remain!"
Back up at their stand, Elio couldn't help rising to his feet and joining the rest of the onlookers in the applause and loud cheers. Beside him, Ed stuck two fingers in his mouth and whistled loudly.
"Woo! Yeah cousin!" Leilani squealed as she was practically jumping up and down with excitement. "Way to go Hau!"
At the sight of that; both Elio and Ed exchanged a knowing smirk. He was grateful that this time it wasn't going to be about him…or so he thought.
"Looks like someone's got a crush on the kahuna's grandson."
"What?" Leilani's face still smiled, betraying her strong denial. "No I don't!"
"She can't." Elio doubted. "Not if she's his cousin. That'd be awkward."
"I'm not his cousin."
"Then it's still possible!"
"Stop it!" She mock pouted, crossing her arms over her chest as realization that the two boys had her verbally backed into a corner. "I do NOT have a crush on Hau."
"You know what's funny?" Ed smirked again. "Is that you're even more readable than Elio!"
Why do I feel like this is both a good and bad thing? I'd love to ask her out, but is it strange knowing that she has a crush on my best friend?
Wait…which best friend? Can't be Ed…oh wait. That's right. Hau.
"That was truly impressive mo'opuna."
Gladion tuned out Hala's compliments and thought back to that maneuver. He did have to give credit where credit was due. The razor leaf to just slightly disrupt Null's advance proved enough to hold it off so that he could score. Of course the rules and situational differences would be present in a one versus one battle, but the move seemed to be brilliantly executed.
I can try for the hariyama now. He thought to himself, clenching his arm again. Dartrix will be an easy picking. Plus as much as I hate it, I'll need Hau's help in taking it down.
Hala must've seen Gladion plotting his next moves. "I see you've already begun to plot your next move keiki. However whatever you are thinking is not going to work! Kazuhiro! Arm thrust!"
"Null, use flame charge to dodge it!" As the bigger pokemon advanced, Null cloaked itself in a wreath of fire, using the increased speed to leap out of the way.
Hau quickly joined in on the fun, throwing a razor leaf attack that pelted both Null and Kazuhiro.
"I think it's my turn to show this off. Ready Dartrix! Roost just like we practiced!"
"Trix!" His owl, now airborne once more had done a midair flip before spreading his wings wide and slowing as he reached the ground. His body glowed white as some of his lost energy was being regained. Some of the wounds on his feathers slowly disappeared as he used the brief lull in the battle to preen himself. By the time the glow of healing had faded, he had spread out his feathers again in preparation to jump back into the action.
"Roost?"
"Yep! Bzzt!" Rotom scrolled through the move database again. "Move found! Roost izzz a healing move that helpz to heal injuriez and izzz especially uzeful for flying type pokemon!"
"Sweet. Maybe Rufflet can learn it too."
"You have to also know that using roost will render it vulnerable to ground moves." Leilani said. "Hau just got Dartrix up in the air again and using it could mean he may have to face bulldoze's damage and speed reduction."
Down on the match; Hala had secretly been counting on that the entire time.
"Use bulldoze Kazuhiro!"
"Null!" His pokemon automatically responded, building up additional fire for the flame charge. Kazuhiro jumped up and slammed back down, sending a tremor that could be felt even up in the stands. Now more prepared, the beast jumped to avoid the brunt of the shockwave before clanking forward, building up additional speed as it moved. That familiar clanking sound increased in pace, sounding something like a locomotive.
Gladion saw the kahuna's smirk grow just slightly more.
Why do I feel like this is what Hala wants me to do?
"Now!"
At the instance; Kazuhiro's sheer bulk deftly moved aside with the quickness of the dancer. Gladion's own gasp of surprise was synonymous with the onlookers, who were still in shock at the earlier bulldoze and seeing such a heavy pokemon move with ease.
Null had built up a considerable amount of speed already and Kazuhiro's sudden dodge made him realize he was headed straight for Dartrix, who was now grounded and trying to recover.
The flame charge hit Hau's pokemon, crashing into the side where the invisible barriers flared up to prevent the strong power from escaping and harming the spectators. Gladion watched as Null crouched low, glancing at a now defeated Dartrix.
"Woah!" The MC was exaggerating surprise into the microphone. "Dartrix was the true victim as kahuna Hala pulls off an impossibly amazing dodge move that takes out one more fighter! Let's give it up for Hau for an amazing effort!"
Gladion scoffed. This kid doesn't even put half the effort into amazing. Why applause for that? Only reason I needed him was to take down the hariyama.
Wait.
He cursed under his breath, finally realizing that while it felt satisfying to eliminate and put Hau in his place, he had dug himself into a deeper hole. Hariyama's strength against normal types and a one on one focus.
Oh no. Hala counted on this. I can't let my guard down now.
Null exploded forward in an aerial ace attack. Gladion hoped that the faster speed could remain a constant. He just had to watch out for that bulldoze again.
Kazuhiro stumbled back, growling when it heard the encouragement of its trainer. He flexed his arms, surrounding himself with a harsh reddish aura.
I have to act now before that bulk up is too much for Null. It will only improve its attacks and defense! Gladion thought, making a fist. We'll just have to keep attacking!
"Tackle!"
The hariyama braced itself as Null led with its horn, surrounded by wisps of glowing white light. It budged just slightly, trying to hold ground; however the beast succeeded in knocking it into the wall barrier.
The MC jumped back up to his feet. "Will you look at that folks? Null just learned take down!"
"Use vital throw."
"Hari!" In another flash of quickness; Kazuhiro's hand found Null's mask and it effortlessly lifted it up, rearing back and tossing it across the arena with a high velocity.
Amazingly, Null had managed to crash into the safety ropes feet first from the safety barrier. The catlike paws on its rear found purchase at the end of one of them and it sprang back to the mat using a catlike grace that defied its character.
"Hi'ona." Hala couldn't hide the fact that even he was impressed. "You have trained your partner Null well."
"We'll continue to get stronger." Gladion said. "We have to. Starting with defeating you kahuna!"
"Then come at me with everything you have!" Hala bellowed. "Kazuhiro, arm thrust!"
The hariyama charged forward, arms outstretched. Null took one to the midsection, but it jumped above, managing to avoid the others. At Gladion's command, an aerial ace was ordered and it slashed leading off with its horn crest across the slower pokemon's body.
This is it.
"Take down!"
Null roared again, rushing forward and enveloping itself in more white energy. Kazuhiro was dazed quite a bit from the previous aerial ace and the fatigue of taking two other pokemon's attacks were finally beginning to catch up.
The two pokemon collided in a crash that caused large cloud of dust to erupt in the center. With the entirety of the action all fast paced as per most Battle Royals, everyone was anticipating the outcome. Most every spectator sat at the edge of their seats and whispered amongst themselves at what could possibly have happened.
Null shuffled out of the dust when it began to clear, huffing lowly and gazing out at the crowd.
Kazuhiro was lying facedown at the ring's center, clearly knocked out and sporting fresh new wounds.
"And Gladion takes the match!" The MC said when the ref confirmed. "Gladion, the master of the beast Null has emerged as the victor for this Battle Royal! Let's give him a hand as well as the other participants!"
At the announcement of the obvious, everyone had stood up and loudly whistled and applauded with a newfound roar rumbling from all the bleachers. Elio was among them and even though he still thought of Gladion as a jerk, it would be rude not to give credit where credit was due.
The MC beckoned Gladion onto the center podium after returning his pokemon. He leaned the mic down to the boy's level.
"So Gladion! Congratulations on yet another fascinating win! What motivated you for that final showdown with the kahuna?"
For a good several seconds, he didn't seem to speak. Much of the crowds were slowly filing up or down the stairs to exit the dome. Those that stayed were leaning forward once more in anticipation.
The blond opened his mouth after casting a long glance around the crowd. "I play to win." He gave a simple nod when the MC was almost ready to go into a frenzy for him to continue.
"Well…um. You've done a fantastic job holding your own against an island kahuna and our very own Masked Royal!"
"Hmph. It's all part of getting stronger." He said. "There's someone who didn't come into the battle who I want to beat and I won't stop until they're down."
Before the MC could feed off that, Gladion turned away and stalked back into his corner, disappearing into the tunnel and leaving everyone in wonder at what his words exactly meant.
"And there you have it! Gladion…a master of the Null beast and a man of few words himself! He's looking for a bigger fish out there! Will we find out who it is? Or his ideal competitor shrouded in mystery! Thanks everyone for coming to the Battle Royal Dome today and we'll see you guys again next time!"
Elio stood there unmoving as he processed Gladion's words inside his head. To many others it was simply just talk to the media and let them have a frenzy over his speak.
To him; he felt as if the edgy teen had subtly jabbed and called him out.
I'm the person Gladion wants to beat.
Why? What would he gain from beating me other than the satisfaction? Does he just hate knowing that someone has defeated him before and he needs the final say?
Sun couldn't really think about it anymore than obsessing, which was what he was thinking that Gladion was doing.
Gladion, you're taking this way out of proportion.
With that thought banished from his head, he stood up and followed his two friends down the steps back out into the lobby.
Gladion just about scoffed to himself when he saw the tall girl squeal excitedly and nearly jump on top of Hau in a bone crushing bewear hug. Just behind him was an even taller boy who looked strong enough to crush him with one arm and then he saw him. The boy he had subtly challenged to show himself and face him down in battle. He looked just as interested in the overwhelming acts of unrewarding praise that Hau was being showered with.
You're going to hug him after that? He once again didn't even put forth half the effort into that battle. It was kind of meaningless, so something like that would only be acceptable here. His lip curled upward as a thought crossed his mind. Least you're in your element where nobody cares how good you are at battling as long as they get a show.
"Ho'omaikaian'a iaoe!" Leilani said, grinning from ear to ear. Hau's red blush covered almost his entire face. "You did great out there Hau!"
Sun joined in, reaching past a hugging Leilani to fist bump Hau. "Yeah brah, you gave your gramps and the Royal a run for their money."
"And you showed me that a Battle Royal could be a whole lotta fun." Ed added. "For a first timer, you looked like you knew what you were doing."
"Heh. Thanks guys." Hau said. "It really was a bit of a thrill." His gaze wandered over to see Gladion standing just a few feet away. "Gladion…congratulations on the win."
The edgy blond perked up at hearing his name and rolled his eyes.
"It means nothing. It's just another day."
Elio saw anger flare up in Leilani's eyes from him brushing off the praise and she stepped forward. He was quick to react, putting an arm out in front of her and shaking his head.
"Another day?" Hau asked out of curiosity. "So it's just another battle to you huh?"
"Say whatever you want. Winning these battles get you nothing but temporary fame. That's something I don't need and I won't want. What I need to do is defeat strong opponents," His gaze centered right on Elio. "And ones that defeat me."
So it's true.
Gladion glared right back at Hau. "You even couldn't beat your own grandfather on that big stage. How do you expect to get stronger if you only enjoy battles?"
Hau stepped forward to confront him.
Okay. I better stop this all before it really escalates and causes a scene. I'm pretty sure a news report of a kahuna's grandson hitting another person wouldn't go well for PR.
Elio slipped a hand on his shoulder. "No." He whispered, glancing back at Gladion. "Don't do it. He's baiting you."
"Better listen what I have to say Hau, because otherwise, you're just going to get trampled on over and over again." He gripped his arm in that strange pose again. "You better start taking battles seriously. If you're not in it to win it, then there's no point in even trying to battle. You can't prove anything if you're weak or a loser."
"Is that so? Is that why you fight?" Elio challenged. His tone wasn't particularly angry, but he wasn't going to stand by and let his friend get verbally jabbed multiple times.
Gladion stepped forward, now having his back to them before stopping like he was still continuing to contemplate Sun's question.
"I'm not here to play…or make friends. I'm here to get stronger so I can protect her."
Her?
He turned back around. "You can't protect anything when you're weak."
"Says who?"
"All of you are spoiled and privileged." Gladion spat, a small fire of fury brimming in his emerald eyes. Again Sun was at a loss of where to make that connection. Why did it look so similar? He saw someone else there as well…but who? The answer continued to elude him. "None of you know what it's like to be abandoned."
Worry flashed across Ed's own face when he saw Elio's own expression darken. "Elio."
"You want to bet on that?" Sun lowered his voice threateningly. "Trust me; whatever you got is nothing compared to the shit I've seen and experienced."
Gladion didn't show it, but he was taken aback by the language Sun had said. He studied him, the furrowed brow, glaring eyes, almost like he was begging for the blond to say something stupid as justification for him to react aggressively. There was nothing that betrayed his demeanor whatsoever. He sighed and shook his head, turning around and exiting the arena without another word to anyone.
You're also incredibly lucky that my best friend is here. That's the only thing stopping me from seeing how colorfully red I can paint these floors.
"Wow." Leilani said. "A total ray of sunshine huh?"
Elio had to blow air out of his mouth in order to calm himself down. Another reminder was sent because he realized that if he had decided to use any murderous physical violence or even just the thought of it, he'd be no better…or perhaps the true villain in the situation.
Perhaps Dad was right in a way. I can't let my own emotions get the best of me. Even if it means defending a friend and putting that walking rectum in his place. Nothing but negativity comes out of this guy's mouth.
"You were on fire during that battle Hau."
The new voice prompted everyone to glance behind them. A tall man that looked to be in his early twenties strode forward towards the group. His skin was a darker brown shade and Sun realized he was looking at a lot of it. This new face wasn't even wearing a shirt. He showed no shame in it either. There were a lot of well-defined core muscles and broad shoulders that showed he was well disciplined when it came to staying in shape. A long necklace was neatly set on his chest with bright amber beads and a wooden ornament at the bottom that had incredible detail in carvings.
His face was well defined with a strong jaw, intense dark eyes and his hair seemed as if it had taken fire of its own; sporting crimson streaks at the ends of the gelled spikes.
So this is what would probably happen if I did the Ab Ripper X three times a day like coach ordered.
Ed lightly tapped Elio's shoulder. "People go shirtless in here? They can't do that in Kanto."
"You'd be surprised."
"What about the girls?"
"I hate to burst your bubble on that one." Sun whispered back. "But no."
"Alola Kiawe!" Both Hau and Leilani greeted him traditionally while spreading their arms out in the rainbow wave.
"Alola you two." Kiawe's expression remained unsmiling, but he seemed friendly enough. "Good to see all of you here."
"Likewise." Hau stepped aside. "This is Elio Northstar…he just moved from here from Kanto and undergoing the Island Challenge. And that's Ed. He's here for the Pro Day skills showcase for the basketball thingy…whatever…sorry Ed."
Ed gave him a dismissive smile as if to say that he didn't take any offense.
"Well Hau, Elio. I hope you bring that fire with you and burn up my trial. For those of you who don't know, the name's Kiawe Iokua." Sun's eyes went wide at recognition of the last name, now knowing that this was the son of the person he had met in Paniola Town.
"I run the fire type trial which will be the next one you undertake. It's set at Mauna Wela's peak in the volcano park. If you plan to see your island challenge through to the end, climb to the top with your strongest team! Get there as early as you can because there will be a lot of preparation we will need to do." A faint curling upward of his lip was seen. "And put your game faces on. Lots of people will be watching."
With that he turned to make his exit, leaving some very confused teenagers behind.
"Watching?" Hau wondered aloud. "What did he mean by that?"
"You'll see." Leilani said. "E mākaukau."
"Huh?"
Elio spoke up. "I think that means we just have to be prepared."
"So Elio, Hau, how are your trials going? I bet your pokemon are working hard and havin' a blast! Oh yeah!" Another voice; this time around much more familiar, had picked up from behind them, revealing itself to be the Masked Royal and kahuna Hala approaching at the six.
"But Mister Masked Royal," Hau piped. "How did you know that we were on our trials?"
Elio saw the Royal's face blanch for just a moment and he was about to crack the masquerade wide open like a walnut before his best friend cut him off.
This is my chance. You're not able to fool me Professor Kukui!
"Oh right! I bet it's because of our amulets right?"
Damnit Hau!
"Well I'm having a great time! Me and Dartrix, Pikachu and Eevee here all the same! And it seems like Sun is too!"
Elio nodded.
"That's fantastic! When you dragon rush your way into a Battle Royal, you get recognition, prizes and your pokemon get to partake in the fun too! You also have a chance to make a name for yourself! Woo!"
"I think it would be hard to concentrate if people yell like that though." Sun added.
"What?" The Royal recoiled in shock before thrusting his face right in front of the boy's. "WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU CAN'T CONCENTRATE WHILE I'M YELLING?! RELAX!"
Woah there. Take a breath man.
"I'm just saying." The group was then interrupted when throngs of people began to gather around, chatting excitedly with themselves about the presence of both an island kahuna and the Masked Royal.
"You best be off on the trials." Hala said. "If you set off today, you can make it all the way to the base of Wela Volcano Park to set up a campsite by nightfall."
"What about you gramps?" Hau asked.
"I have my own business to attend to here on Akala. You keiki run along and enjoy yourselves. And always remember your pokemon at your side."
"Okay." The four teens waved as he peeled away from the group and exited the building. "Alola!"
"And we," Elio elbowed Ed in the side. "Have a skills showoff to get ready for. It's not for a few hours, but I still say we try and reserve part of the court in order to warm up."
"Ah, so you're going in the Pro Day too?"
"Well I'm not an official entry since I'm not eligible," Elio answered. "But they do allow me to be Ed's partner for the drills and a potential replacement for an injured or absent player if need be."
"That sounds fantastic! Woo!" The Royal said. "I shall inform your mother! And it is now my time to bounce out of here! You there Elio! Stop by when you return! We shall trade punches!"
Trade punches?
He leaned forward, a smirk playing on his face. "I'll let you go first."
"Hold on a second," Ed inquired as they were exiting down the steps from the Dome. "How in the world does the Masked Royal know your mother?"
His question seemed to strike a chord into Elio's head and he whipped around, furrowing his brow in complete confusion.
Because it's freaking Professor Kukui!
"Yeah that is kind of strange."
"I'm not one to say anything, but you've probably been on your guard with your mother and all. I'm sure she's invited some guy over for wine or something. Maybe that island professor I saw in the Alola ad once. He seems like her type."
Elio gave him a nasty look. "Ed, I love you like a brother. I really do and I'll say it again…some of the stuff you say is really strange."
"I know." His lips curled in a devious smirk. "That's why I do it."
"I think your new nickname is gonna be Ed the Matchmaker. I'm making it stick once you get drafted…mark my words."
"Hell to the no! Ed the Playmaker is way better!"
"You don't give yourself a nickname! It's earned!"
"What? Then explain the Dark Knight?"
"That's…different. That guy wanted to be called that and everyone liked it, so it stuck!"
"Alright hoopsters!" Leilani called from a few feet ahead as she and Hau had begun walking away from them. "Decide on your nicknames later! How about we go shopping?!"
"Shopping?!"
"Eh, why not?"
The eastern side of Pa'ani's main Royal Avenue was more of the residential section. Parts of the main highways and streets branched off into the capillaries of homes and a couple of schools. There was a big park that the quartet crossed through complete with a very fancy fountain complete with stone statues of magikarp spouting streams of water from their "mouths" A big field separated it from the streets where excited kids ran around playing a game of tag with others and some baby pokemon while parents stood on the side, keeping a watchful eye.
There was a big sign at the park's entrance stating that wearing a mask to obscure the face was prohibited. It seemed like it was also recently erected.
Looks like this town's already tired of the crap Team Skull gives it.
"Hey cool check this out guys!" Ed was kneeling down at one of the gardens surrounding the fancy fountain. He smiled as a tiny little pokemon that looked like it was clinging to a flower was rubbing its head against his finger. The colors of the plant attached to it were a beautiful pink.
"This is such a neat pokemon!"
That's a strange pokemon for sure. I've never seen it before.
"Hey Rotom, what kind of po-"
"Hi there! Bzzt! Interrupting you becauzze I feel like it!" The loudly buzzing 'Dex was ready to jump right out before the boy could finish his question. "We've got a new pokemon detected! Bzzt! Flabebe. Single bloom pokemon. This pokemon is found in gardens and is not safe until it finds a flower it likes. It will take the time to find the perfect flower, with some waiting for decades before deciding. Flabebe is a fairy type and a female only species. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
"A fairy type?" Elio asked. "Don't see many of those around."
"That'zzz becauzzze the fairy type was recently discovered! Bzzt!"
"Discovered? So then what the hell was it before?"
"Do I look like I know everything? Bzzt!"
Sun rolled his eyes, trying not to direct it at the snickering trio behind him as well. "You're a pokedex. You're supposed to know everything."
"Indeed I do! There are more than four hundred recorded speciezzz found all over Alola'z four islandzz! And there are more being dizcovered every day! Bzzt! Zpeaking of which; we've got a couple more new pokemon detected!"
Everyone's gaze drifted back to Ed and saw that the flabebe he was playing around with was joined by a slightly larger fairy that resembled it. Instead of it clinging to a plant that was three times its own size, the newcomer held it in its arms like a parasol umbrella to shield the majority of its body…or provide it with sunlight.
"Floette. Single bloom pokemon. It is the evolved form of flabebe. A floette spends its time raising flowers and harnessing their power to defend flowerbeds. More beautiful blooms contain more power. Floette is a fairy type and a female only species. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
Rotom's screen shuffled off and panned to what looked like an oricorio. Unlike its yellow counterparts Elio had seen in Melemele Meadow, it was pinkish in color with a light feather crown and a long skirt. Its wings were less feathered, ending in three longer ones at the tips. They saw a pair of them flying down to sip from some of the pink flowers in the garden.
"Oricorio in the Pa'u style allure its foes with gently swaying hips that melts their hearts. This elegant dance is widely recognized as the traditional dance of the Alolan people. Pa'u oricorio is a psychic and flying type. Additional information is available upon catching this pokemon."
"I've actually never seen the traditional Alola dance before." Ed said. "But I've heard that it lifts spirits and is amazingly soothing."
"Do you remember seeing those girls in those green skirts?" Hau asked. When Ed and Elio nodded, he continued. "The traditional Alolan dance is done to please the tapu and express thanks for them watching over us and giving us happiness. Much of it tell stories both old and new." He glanced at Leilani. "Plus I remember seeing her in the dance outfit."
"Hau!" She looked away, trying to hide the flushed expression on her face.
"Hey, I got nothing to say bad about it! You looked great! Even fantastic!"
The blush remained in her cheeks. "Oh…uh mahalo."
"Now we just gotta get Lillie in one too! Deck her out in a grass skirt, coconut bra and lei!" Hau added. "And then I bet even Elio would lose his mind!"
"Count me in on that!"
"Really guys?" Elio glared at them. "Really?"
"This is gonna be so fun trying to hook those two up!"
The last statement had escaped his thoughts, as he descended into a very interesting realm of imagining a certain blonde in the described outfit. He had seen it in advertisements back in Kanto with the long garlands of the flowers…lei as Hau and Leilani had described around her neck. The grass skirt woven neatly frayed up as the wind tugged on the loose blades. Elio could almost see Lillie right there, blonde hair blowing behind in a sexily manner. Her warm green eyes were radiant with a smile as she swung her arms about with a carefree joy. Elio felt his "gaze" wandering right down to her mesmerizing hips, centering right on her pale slender stomach as she drew nearer.
"I think I broke him." Hau whispered. Sun, now realizing that everyone was silent and staring at him, yelped in surprise when Ed poked him in the shoulder.
"Sorry. Did we ruin your fantasy with gorgeous right there?"
"Okay, guys you all need to stop with this crap!" Elio suddenly snapped. "Will you ever let me off with this?"
"Only until you admit it?"
"That's it!" Sun pushed past them and walked on the path ahead. "I'm outta here. If you want to come shop at the center with me, be my guest, but this conversation is over!"
"I'm with Elio on this one." Leilani chuckled. "He's too good for her."
"I don't think so." Ed said, reaching out with a fist to Hau and the latter bumping it. "Just a hunch though. I'm still on board for the grass skirt and coconut bra operation."
"Straight up brah." He leaned down to whisper into Hau's ear so that the others weren't able to eavesdrop. "By the way, I know now from a basketball team bonding night of spin the bottle that Elio's favorite part of a woman is her stomach."
"What?" The kahuna's grandson was less subtle than he had hoped and the sudden question to break the silence. "Why?"
"Keep it down," Ed glanced up, now seeing that Sun and Leilani were engaged in their own discussion and seemingly uninterested in what he had to say. "I have no idea. I suspect that he likes it because it's where his future baby will be growing or something."
"Dang." Hau had to admit that it made sense. The basketball hopeful saw that the other boy glanced over at Leilani, zeroing in to stare at her stomach before back at him again. "You know, that's actually pretty deep."
In front, but well aware of the others conversing; Sun gave another long roll of the eyes in exasperation.
My two best friends conspiring to bring me down. What kind of people do I hang out with?
I have to get that image of her out of my head. I'll be a full-fledged pervert by the time my island challenge is over.
Lillie is a friend…nothing more. Just a friend. A. Friend.
Elio silently thanked the tapu that the rather uncomfortable conversation had died down as they approached the town's retail section.
Unlike Hau'oli's massive and sprawling shopping district, the one at Pa'ani was more open air, with long concrete promenades lining either side of the building. Overhead there was a slanted roof that protected the shoppers underneath from the sun's harsh rays or a sopping rainfall. Just on its inside was wooden signs sporting logos of the various shops that made up the center. Every now and then there were other stands selling food and other accessories seen in the malls from cell phone cases to sunblock.
I keep forgetting how crazy overpriced it and relief lotion is here. The demand's always going to be there, so it's a good idea to go into the sunblock business here in Alola.
They must have come at a more crowded time since the four had lost one another on occasion from the large crowds of people. They saw all different kinds from other groups of teenagers loudly chatting with one another to simple families going on a stroll in the Alolan afternoon.
Surprisingly, the one that got a lot of attention and publicity was Ed. Being an up-and-coming basketball superstar that was constantly mentioned in the news meant that many were going to recognize his face. A lot of people he had never seen or met before constantly came up to the quartet, centering their gaze on the tallest boy within the group. They came up to shake his hand, wish him luck and there were a lot that were brandishing their cameras on their phones, hoping for a photo with the eventual pro player.
"Man you're gonna rock the FBC!"
"You're unstoppable Ed!"
"I hope you play for the Pouncers!"
"You'd make a great big three with Davis and Cousins!"
"Eddie! Please marry me!"
And then there was Elio's favorite. "The 'Canes uniform would look best on you!"
Ed was definitely flattered with all his newfound attention, still not able to believe that he was this well-known and not even a professional yet. To their surprise, he remained quite humble about the showering of praise sent his way. He also wanted to prove to Elio as well as his peers that the newfound stardom was not going to make its way in over-inflating his ego no matter how sweet it tasted.
The four checked out multiple shops, mostly boutiques at Leilani's insistence and talked among themselves about various things, from life on Alola, the island challenge and the future of basketball as they waited. The surfer seemed to take forever, beginning to test the boys' patience.
"Whew." Ed breathed a sigh of relief as they exited the store. When she emerged from the doors back outside with yet another shopping bag that was put into a struggling Hau's hands, he and Elio echoed his sentiment.
"So uh Leilani," Sun asked as they were nearly ready to exit the shopping center. "Are you finished?"
"Well…yeah. You guys seemed to be getting bored. Remind me to never take boys shopping again." She glanced over at Hau, who had at least four large paper bags that appeared to hold considerable weight. "At least someone shows some mahalo for shopping with me."
That's because he's probably head over heels for you. Which essentially makes you my rival for her heart! Loser goes for Lillie! There. Settled. Worst case scenario is that we'll just be friends anyway.
"Now it's my turn." Ed gestured to one of the stores they hadn't seen just yet. Inside they could see that it sold a wide array of different sports and outdoors equipment with much of it looking very high end. Elio could recognize several famous name brands.
"Uh Ed." He glanced at 'Dex's clock feature, showing that they had a little more than an hour. "We should probably start heading back to the Dome. Not that much time left."
"I know bro, but we gotta get you something to wear." He gestured to his white and blue striped tee. "And that is not going to cut it. Remember, you're gonna represent and I need someone else in style to be my partner."
"C'mon Elio!" Leilani encouraged. "Don't be so much of a stick in the sand!"
"I'm not being a stick in the sand. I just don't want us to miss the pro skills showcase. The last thing all those teams want to see is you reporting for them later than your deadline. What do you think that tells them when you've got meetings to attend?"
"Please Elio?" Ed bent his knees so that he was at the other boys' level, giving him an endearing look from a pair of pleading eyes. "I'll buy!"
The boy sighed, knowing that he wasn't going to get out of this situation. "Alright. Let's be quick okay?"
Some trendy music beat down from unseen speakers as the quartet made their way around the athletics apparel store. It had marbled floors and dark carpet with a sterile white lighting that reflected off the gray walls.
The layout was very typical of a usual store that tailored to the athletes and enthusiasts who followed them in a less-than-obligated manner.
Its back was an entire section dedicated to footwear, featuring hiking boots for those wanting to trudge Haleakala Point or Mauna Wela to the casual urban kicks with a rainbow of bright cheery colors in abstract patterns that turned heads.
Some of it was way out of Sun's price range and apparently the better the shoe meant a higher asking price.
One particular section had Elio all in awe however. He rifled through the display racks and shelves all devoted into finding that one perfect shirt. It had been so fixated through his mind that he failed to notice his three friends crossing their arms and smirking knowingly at him.
"I had no idea he loved shopping for fashion." Leilani said, unable to hide her own surprise.
"Well you talk about fashion like dresses and casual clothes? Nah…his mother does all that for him." He gestured to the basketball and trainer apparel. "This however…another story."
"You guys are going to help me?" Elio half asked, half snapped. "Seriously, I can't decide here."
They were in the section dominated by the dark sign close to the ceiling with the logo. It spelled Maple Apparel Outfitters in formatted arcs of what looked like electrical energy. The first word was in a dark ruby red color, middle in a bright white and finally the last word was a deep sapphire.
In the sign's center and behind the text was a faint image of a pokemon. It was humanoid in appearance with more along a female's figure. Her hands were slightly apart with the energy lances conducting in between to "formulate" the brand's logo.
"Heh," Hau put his arms behind his head. "I kinda forgot that Elio is a big fan of Brendan Maple."
"Elio follows Brendan too?!" Leilani practically squealed. "Oh my goodness he and May are soooo cute together! I can't believe they're getting married!"
"Aaaand there she goes." Ed grinned. "You girls and your weddings!"
"What? It's going to be sooo romantic! They just announced the wedding site and all!" The surfer took out her phone, tapping on it furiously and then turning it around to her companions.
Ed and Hau peered at the article, depicting it as a beautiful site in the island city of Mossdeep overlooking the ocean. They stared at the couple overlooking the section while meeting with a minister and going through the ceremony in a rehearsal.
Hoenn League Champion Brendan Maple was a young man in his early twenties with short messy brown hair and determined gray eyes. He had a very strong athletic build that was quite visible underneath the flamboyant band T-shirt and shorts he was wearing.
Beside him, May was just slightly shorter with nearly an identical shade of brown hair. Unlike that of her fiancée; hers was straight and neatly tended to, flowing down just below her shoulders to meet the blouse.
"I do have to admit they're an attractive couple." Ed said as he handed the phone back to her.
"I know!" She looked at the image again. "Huh…are May's hips…a little bigger?"
"Gotta love those hips."
Okay, you need to decide man. Elio thought to himself. They're both so good! But I can only afford one! Why in the world does this stuff have to be so much?!
He was holding two shirts, one in each hand that he equally liked, but was only able to buy one of them. Each one was his large size; made with a blend of cottonee and polyester thread and had the signature "vent" design on the back starting from the collar at the upper shoulders and circling underneath around the armpit to his front. The supposedly radical design called "Vent-TEK" made Sun roll his eyes, but it was effective for sure. That section was covered in mesh, allowing heat buildup in the underarm area to escape from within, keeping the wearer cool in both ways. The purpose was also to minimize odorous sweat from building up.
The shirt on his left was colored blue with bold white letters "MOST FEARED"
The shirt on his right was colored green with bold white letters "BECOME LEGEND"
Both little quips were typical among the athletic wear of Maple Apparel Outfitters. Their message was to go out and achieve your goals and let nothing or nobody stand in your way. In one of Brendan's interviews after he had become the champion of the Hoenn League, he had stated that one of his aspirations was to help influence others to attaining their own goals as well. Seeing how younger trainers in Hoenn began to copy much from him including his fashion sense and hairstyle, he and May decided to partner up with a clothing brand and launch their own line tailored especially to trainers, performers and coordinators.
Do I buy both and break the bank?
There was another area to the Maple section across the aisle from all the men's trainer gear. Since Brendan focused on battling and becoming the world's strongest trainer, his fiancée May was taking a different approach, even though there were similar athletic shirts and shorts in a section for women as well.
They were just like a supercouple, adored by fans, well known in the high profile area and news of their eventual matrimony was just as big of a news as them stopping the rampant entities of the land and sea just a couple of years ago.
May's section of their brand included many fancily designed dresses with the signature line mimicking Brendan's star pokemon, a gardevoir. Each one was slightly different in design but mainly featuring a pure silky white skirt with glittering gems neatly sewn into its surface. Some had reflective materials that changed color slightly depending on the light they were cast in and others had radically contrasting shades. The latter were off to the side in an entire area that had the dresses specifically for pokemon performers and coordinators.
"Wow." Leilani whispered and ran her hand along the smooth surface of one of the dresses. "They're so beautiful."
"I know right?" Hau agreed, giving it a good look. It was a pure white color, strapless going down mid-thighs and flaring just slightly before the edge. He glanced up at the price tag and nearly had his eyes popping out of his head.
Holy-! It's THAT much? I'm so glad I don't have to pay that for my clothes!
Leilani's eyes went up to a picture board of May with the famous Grand Coordinator swiftly pointing at something out of camerashot and her fierce, but elegant bipedal fire pokemon was in the midst of creating a dazzling inferno display. There was a similar shot of Brendan on the men's side but instead he was commanding a large greenish lizard pokemon as it charged up a glowing blade on the side of its arm. "Use charm and style to steal the spotlight both in yourself and your pokemon." She glanced back at the others. "This one will make me feel like a princess."
Then I'm getting that. Screw the price.
"Bro, we gotta get going like you said. You wanna come back to this Brendan shrine and do your daily bowing to him later?"
Elio had decided on the Legend shirt and stared back at his friend. "What?! No! I do not worship him!"
"You basically do. You just told me from memory of the ten best battles he's ever fought."
"Okay…maybe I am a bit of a fanboy."
"I'm still yanking your chain," Ed jerked his thumb across the aisle where Hau watched Leilani walk towards the front of the store and he had scooped up one of the white dresses the moment her attention went elsewhere. "And I think your pal Hau has a crush on your surfer friend."
Hau likes her too?!
Elio's hand began to curl itself into a fist.
No. I'll get her one myself and give it to her first.
He walked over to the gardevoir dress section.
"Elio, what are you doing?"
"I gotta do it before it's too late." He scanned the row of different designs. Which one would she even like?
Sun decided on one that had a slightly longer skirt in a bodycon fashion. There was a thinner section right on the mid-stomach that was a mesh insert see-through with a glittering sapphire that hung from the lower cut neck. He had no doubt that she would look absolutely stunning in it.
Get me a nice suit and we can go to a festival or dance together.
Ed shook his head in disbelief as Elio made another last minute decision, grabbing the other athletic T-shirt and did a beeline for the closest checkout counter.
Oh shoot. Do I have enough money?
"That's life for ya." Ed couldn't stop laughing to himself as they walked behind an excited Leilani and Hau back towards the Royal Dome. The evening had settled in and after grabbing something to hold them over for food, made their way in that direction. Elio hadn't checked the price tag and nearly got lightheaded when the beauty cashier called out his total.
This thing was almost a fifth of my savings. Goodbye Mom's pocket money.
Even worse, she had gotten the idea that he and the boy before him were buying the dresses to impress the girl that accompanied them. Much to his dismay, she had opinionated that the first boy's dress would look better on the girl.
"So who would you think this would look good on?"
"Oh besides myself?" She had laughed lightly. "Heh, I'd say a blonde. It's hard to mess up finding a dress for one of them."
Those words were unprocessed by Elio as he snagged the bag from her outstretched hand and bolted out the door. He did not notice the ravishing smirk growing on Ed's face as he followed.
"You'll have to excuse my friend here." He chuckled as they made their way out the door. "I think he lost all his mannerisms while he was still in the womb."
"I wish you would have warned me about it." Elio grumbled when they began to step up the flight of stairs that led back up to the dome. The surrounding crowds were a much different one in addition to the mix of tourists. Many wore different jerseys or fangear indicating the team they followed or favorite players. Others were coaches, officials and analysts in fancy dark suits. Seeing them made Elio realize that this was the first time he had actually seen people dress for business in Alola.
It's kind of strange seeing all of them for the first time. People around here don't dress like that out in the open and those that do get all these funny looks.
Hau and Leilani stood back just as Elio and Ed were about to enter. Sun noticed they weren't following and turned around.
"You guys coming?"
The latter shook her head. "Sorry. I gotta head over to Mauna Wela since Hau is going to try his trial tonight. My father helps out captain Kiawe and I'd also like to be there when he passes."
"Yeah sorry bro." Hau stuck his pinkie and thumb out in a "hang loose" sign. "This is my perfect opportunity to get ahead of you." The lopsided smirk told him that it was more ways than just the island challenge.
Elio turned to Ed, "See what you've roped me into? Now I'm going to be behind."
"Hey, you didn't have to be my partner."
"You asked!"
"And you didn't have to say yes!"
Can't back out now, but if Hau's going to be with Leilani, then he's going to give her that dress…maybe they'll go on a date and I'd lose my chance.
Before he could act on anything; Leilani stepped forward with an eager smile.
"Oh don't worry you two! I'll still be cheering for you both! Ed, I have no doubt you'll make it to the pros and make sure Elio gives you a fight!" She turned to him. "And you! I am going to get you onto a surfboard if it kills me! You gotta learn how to surf!"
Elio smiled back at her. "I seriously can't wait! Good luck Hau!"
"Thanks brah." He shook Ed's hand. "It was great to meet you."
"Likewise." The taller boy said while returning the gesture. "Alola!"
"Alola!"
Elio and Ed watched as the two descended hurriedly back down the stairs before taking a pathway heading east where it began another road up to the mountain just around the corner that loomed in the distance.
"You've got some great friends. I'm glad you're settling in good to your new life here."
"Thanks Ed."
"Look," He shook his head apologetically. "I'm sorry about all this pestering of you and."
"There's no need to apologize."
"What? I'm trying to be serious here!"
"As am I!" Elio couldn't help bursting out in laughter at his best friend's expense. "You're still that big bully from the damn playground and you say you read me like a book!"
"You have a funny way of being serious and not at the same time. Just let me talk here."
Elio nodded. "Sure."
"Look man, I didn't want to be all pushy when it came to gorg…I'm sorry, Lillie. You're absolutely right. I've known you for more than half your life by now and all of your ups and downs. I get it that moving to Alola wasn't something you wanted or planned and it looks like I was right in that you hated the place when you got here."
Ed looked back in the direction of where Hau and Leilani had gone. Of course they were well out of sight, but Elio knew exactly where he was going.
"Even though you've got friends like those two, I can also tell that you and Lillie both hold a very special relationship. She seemed very delicate and vulnerable. She needs someone to comfort and protect her from all the uncertainty that's happening in her world. Be that person. Be that person she can hug tightly and have that shoulder to cry on."
"Ed." Instead of his usual aggravated defensive tone, his name was whispered in a placid one.
"After the shit you and your mother have been through, you both deserve to be happy. And I will do everything I can to make sure that happens whether you like it or not."
"Ed."
"Don't you try and protest this."
"It's not that." Elio softly said. "Ed, you…you might be right."
He opened his mouth to reply but was abruptly cut off by an announcement saying that all draft prospects needed to report to the locker rooms within the next few minutes. Elio had found a sign up above and pointed in its direction.
"We better get going."
The conversation had been stowed as Elio quickly got out his Legend shirt and basketball shorts. With another brotherly handshake of back patting and fist bumping, the two basketball players started weaving through the crowds, determined not to be late.
They playfully bumped fists again at the entrance as a good luck charm that was done many times before big games.
"Let's go make you a superstar."
So another part of Royal Avenue down! We've got some more to cover and then hitting the accelerator to go back towards the fire trial. Some neat surprises are along the road too, so stay tuned!
Translations:
Mo'opuna - grandson
Hi'ona - Very impressive
Ho'omaikaian'a iaoe! - Congratulations to you!
Mauna - Mountain
E mākaukau - Be prepared
Pa'u - Skirt. Refers to the grass woven skirt commonly seen at hula dances during luaus
Mahalo for reading and reviewing. You give my writing purpose. I'll see you all next time!
Brav