Foul Play

I love it when the fic responds to itself for me. :V Honestly, I feel like every chapter, there’s another wonderful character moment like this. There is really powerful ‘old man yells at cloud’ energy all through Nanu's narration this chapter. :>

At least the bread is okay, even if literally everything else in the meal is stale! I like how these people went to the Pokémon Centre to eat, knowing the food was bad, even though they didn’t have to. Maybe it’s not so bad really and Nanu is just being grumpy. Either way, I love that like so many different fic writers have apparently independently decided that Pokémon Centre food is just awful. I know it’s my headcanon, and I feel like I’ve seen it in a bunch of other fics, too.

Anyway! I should comment on the plot and stuff, right? So, here’s Grimsley, still following around the Interpol agents without quite seeming to grasp the gravity of the situation. Admittedly, we’re seeing this through Nanu’s biased eyes, but still. I wonder how long this relaxed attitude can hold out?

On the subject of Grimsley, Nanu’s response to his exceptionally melodramatic well wishes to Selene and Lillie is honestly the only valid one. :P But I have to admit, Grimsley is smiling. At children. And he’s wishing them well. That’s like, exactly what his job as a League trainer involves, you know? It’s what he was struggling to do when this story began, what he came to Alola to try and get back again, and it seems like, after a slow and steady improvement, he’s found it again. And good for him, quite frankly!

Speaking of Selene, it’s interesting to see another side to her here. She and Lillie have a really sweet rapport; Lillie’s like the only person so far who tempers Selene’s brashness and makes her speak softly. Oh, to be young and travelling around with minimal adult oversight! :V I’m also delighted that Lillie is very emphatic about how awful Lusamine is. Iirc, they took out the line where she tells Lusamine she’s awful in USUM, which strikes me as a completely baffling thing to do, and it's good to see that attitude restored here.

Also, I have to say, I forget about ‘Triples’ every single time, lol, and it got me again just like the last however many times. :V

Oh Nanu, you don’t know the half of it. Bet Looker could tell you allll about some very stubborn kids, lmao.

So Selene and Lillie are off to Exeggcutor Island next time, huh. I’m really interested to see how this pans out – they’ve got quite a bit more of a party with them than before, and we’re really close to the climax of the USUM story! I can’t quite figure out how Nanu and Grimsley fit into that yet, but I’m looking forward to finding out. Nice work! :>

We’re back with Grimsley here, and there’s more Z-mastery in store, it seems! He’s really getting somewhere now, huh. But it’s a short-lived sweetness: here’s the man with the most ridiculous hairstyle short of those two from the SwSh postgame. And he’s back on his nonsense again, too: Colress, my guy, you have got to stop obsessing over fusing pokémon together. Someone please help this man before he mad scientists his way into stapling a clefairy to a growlithe or something.

But anyway, more seriously, it’s nice that Colress gets a chance to air his motivations, so to speak. Like, he comes across as the epitome of ‘they were so obsessed with whether they could, they didn’t stop to wonder if they should’ in-game, and that’s the vibe he’s giving me here, too. He’s dangerously careless, you know, and his reasons don’t excuse his actions, but … yeah. You can’t help but feel for the guy.

That said, though, I like that Grimsley takes a stand, says he can’t be his friend, even if Colress wants it. There’s a gap between the two of them, I think, that Colress can’t bridge even by admitting that what he did was wrong. Grimsley understands Colress’ problem a lot better than Colress himself – well enough to know that he can’t take on the burden of trying to sort him out. I’m glad he got the closure, though. These things needed to be said.

I’m also glad that Nanu apparently met Clair and got told off by her. :P A real meeting of the minds there, huh? Interesting that he concedes he deserved to get told off. Guess he was right when he said misery loves company; apparently the grumpiest man in the Alola League and the grumpiest woman in the Indigo League get on. :V

Though part of his concession is that he’s mellow with the atmosphere, of course. I really liked the reminiscence in the rain; it’s gentle and sweet and very nice – even Nanu cracks a smile or two! The whole thing is just … really heartwarming. Lillie and Selene holding hands and watching the rainbow is nice, too. :> Though Charlotte and Nanu’s similar moment is also great. Old friends enjoying the moment, remembering the past. I do love that kinda thing.

Also, I’d totally forgotten Lillie’s canonically a big Singin' in the Rain fan, too, which is utterly hilarious to me for some reason.

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Chapter Twenty-Two
Fling

After that overdue talk with Colress, Grimsley took a leisurely walk in Seafolk Village. A few of the boats that were here earlier today had left. He didn't see Nanu and the others yet, so they likely were still on Exeggutor Island.

Grimsley tugged at his scarf, the air around him getting warmer. He passed by a few vendors and stopped when he saw Mina and another woman at the docks. She was much shorter and had darker skin. Her tan clothing and purple bonnet made her look like a humble farmer. It was a moment until she and Mina noticed him.

"Oh, hey Grimsley!" Mina beamed and waved to him. "There's someone I want you to meet!"

The woman with the purple bonnet approached Grimsley. "I'm Hapu, a resident of Poni Island. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Grimsley, and likewise," he said, and they shook hands.

Hapu grinned and had her hands on her hips. "Mina told me that you're a member of the Elite Four. What's a mighty strong trainer like you doing here?"

Grimsley hummed and said, "I'm supposed to be on holiday, but I did more battles than anticipated."

"Hapu's been traveling all over Alola to prove herself as our island's next kahuna," Mina said. "She came back here just now."

"The next kahuna?" Grimsley asked and blinked. "That's very ambitious of you."

Hapu let out a sheepish laugh and rubbed the back of her neck. "My late grandfather was the last kahuna here and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. Tapu Fini didn't choose me as the next kahuna, so I left Poni Island to do my own island challenge."

Grimsley lifted a brow, unsure what she meant by her own island challenge. He didn't get a chance to ask her when Mina gasped and pointed at the horizon.

"I think it's them!" she said, grinning.

A houseboat the shape of a Magikarp pulled next to the docks. Nanu, Wicke, Lillie, Selene and a middle-aged man with dark hair stepped out.

"Alola, alola!" Mina cheered as she approached them. "Looks like you guys made it back safely."

"Thanks so much for bringing us to Exeggutor Island, Chief Akoni," Lillie said, smiling.

"Not a problem at all, miss!" Akoni said. "Glad to see you have what you're looking for." He stopped and noticed Hapu, flashing her a grin. "Why hello there, Hapu! You're back from your long journey?"

Hapu beamed back. "Indeed I am, Chief Akoni. I had been away long enough, so it's great to be back."

Akoni chuckled with his hands on his sides. "I'm sure your grandmother will be overjoyed." He shifted his gaze at Grimsley and approached him. "Hm, never seen you here before."

"That's Grimsley," Nanu said dismissively. "He's a trainer from Unova."

Grimsley glared at him and folded his arms, unimpressed with his subpar introduction of him. "A strong trainer, I may add." He looked back at Akoni. "So you must be the Seafolk Village chief Nanu mentioned."

"Yup, that's me! I make sure the seafolk live peacefully here." He moved his head away for a second. "Well, I better check up on my boat. You all have a nice day!"

Everyone waved goodbye to Akoni as he stepped back inside his ship. Hapu faced Selene and Lillie, grinning at them.

"Lillie, Selene. It's been a while, you two."

"It's great to see you too, Hapu!" Selene said and grinned back. "Oh, do you like Lillie's new Z-Powered look?"

A slight blush formed on Lillie's cheeks, and a determined expression crossed her face. "I've finally figured out what I need to do, so I gave myself this new look."

Hapu's grin widened. "Ho, I like that! No one could call you lily-livered!"

"I think her new look is also lovely," Wicke said with a soft smile. She walked closer to Hapu and Mina. "I'm Wicke Santana from the Aether Foundation. It's nice to meet you two."

Mina grinned at her. “Alola! I’m Mina, the trial captain here. I heard some great stuff you did for that place.”

"Oh, you're one of them Aether folks, correct? I heard you guys did good work." She and Wicke shook hands, and then she faced Nanu. "And greetings to you, Kahuna Nanu."

Nanu grunted. "Hello to you too, kid."

Grimsley stared at him. It shouldn’t surprise him that Nanu wasn’t the kind of person to give warm greetings.

"So, how was the trip there?" Mina asked.

"It was great!" Selene said, raising her arms in the air. "We got to see the Alolan Exeggutor and ride on them!"

"We stayed longer than anticipated because it was raining there," Lillie said. "But now we have the Sun Flute!"

Lillie pulled out a golden flute with the sun symbol like the drawing Grimsley had seen from the book. He, Hapu, and Mina took a closer look at it.

"So that's the Sun Flute from Exeggutor Island..." Hapu said in a low voice. "You plan to do something with it?"

Lillie hummed and nodded. "My mother disappeared off into some far-off world to face off a fearsome Pokémon called Necrozma. I must go after her!"

"Necrozma is the beast that the Ultra Recon Squad are looking after," Selene said. "That's why Lillie and I are asking for the Legendary Pokémon's help."

Hapu rubbed her chin and furrowed her brow. "That Necrozma must be what's weighing heavily upon the Ultra Recon Squad."

"All of this sounds like a lot of work for you two," Mina said. "You sure you're up to the task?"

Lillie and Selene exchanged brief uncertain looks. They nodded and held hands.

"We are," Selene said.

Grimsley regarded the girls a moment. Lillie and Selene, both so young and yet so determined. They were just like Hilda and Nate who took down both versions of Team Plasma. He glanced to see Nanu, Wicke, Hapu, and Mina having similar expressions. Grimsley chuckled.

"I would be surprised if you backed down."

"If that's what you want then I'll help you in any way I can," Hapu said, smiling.

"Same here," Mina said and smiled also.

"If you girls are in any trouble, don't hesitate to ask me or Kahuna Nanu for assistance," Wicke said. She cleared her throat and hit Nanu's elbow with her own.

"Hm?" Nanu blinked and scratched the back of his neck. "Oh, yeah of course."

Grimsley snorted. "For a second, I thought you were going to say no."

Nanu flinched and narrowed his eyes at him. "I care for their safety, at least."

"Looks like all of you are exhausted. Why don't I take you all to my place to eat?"

"Oh, I would like that very much," Lillie said.

"Me too," Selene said. "I'm super hungry now!"

Mina gave a single nod. "Sure. I just need to let my parents know I'll be late tonight."

"I'm curious to see what your place looks like," Grimsley said. "I'll join also."

"That's such a sweet gesture, but Nanu and I have to meet with a couple of our friends to discuss some important manners," Wicke said. She turned to Nanu, who grunted in agreement.

"Ah, that's a shame," Hapu said in a disappointed voice but still smiled. "Perhaps next time, then." She turned towards Selene, Lillie, Mina, and Grimsley. "Alrighty then, the rest of you follow me!"

Grimsley followed Hapu and others while Nanu and Wicke went a separate path. He had grown interested in Hapu, so he wanted to talk with her more.

Xxx

Ancient Poni Path led to Vast Poni Canyon. Ruins of stone walls and ancient buildings were mixed in with small clay houses. A small farming community lived here, with the Poni white radish the most grown vegetable on this island. Hapu had told Grimsley, Lillie, and Selene how while most people on Poni Island were seafolk and traveled overseas often, the farmers here enjoyed a more relaxing and mundane lifestyle.

Grimsley couldn't imagine himself living that lifestyle for long. He enjoyed the fast pace of being an Elite Four trainer and gambler. His stay in Alola taught him though that relaxing once in a while wasn't so bad.

The group stopped when they made it in front of Hapu's house. A middle-aged woman was pulling out several white radishes from the soil. A Machamp and Mudsdale were helping her out. Hapu called out "Grandmother!" to her, causing her to turn and beam at her.

"Hapu!" She rushed over to her, and they embraced. "I take it your journey went well?"

"Ah huh," Hapu said, nodding and grinning. "I'm now ready to prove myself to Tapu Fini."

"I'm sure you'll do wonderfully." When Hapu's grandmother noticed Mina, she approached her. "And how are you, Mina dearie?"

"I'm doing great, Eli," Mina said with a smile. "Also can't wait to see little Hapu give it her all."

"That's great to hear." The woman gazed at Grimsley, Lillie, and Selene. "Oh, and who might you three be?"

"I'm Selene, and this is Lillie," Selene said, beaming. "I'm taking the Island Challenge while Lillie tags along."

"And I'm Grimsley. A trainer who came to Alola recently."

"They're guests I brought here with me," Hapu said. "I met Lillie and Selene during my travels."

The grin on Eli’s face widened. "Ho! You all sound like nice people. Let's go inside and I'll cook something for everyone here."

Eli returned her Pokémon and everyone followed her inside. Two couches sat in between a table, and a flatscreen television stood on a counter. Several paintings of beautiful Alola scenery hung on the wall.

"Those two paintings there are mine," Mina said as she pointed to two paintings together. One was of a sea lion creature bathing in the low sunset. Another painting had blue and purple crab-like Pokémon playing in the snow.

"Oh wow, they're so cool!" Selene said, her face lighting up. "That one is a Primarina, isn't it?"

"Yup. Lana came to visit here some weeks back and let me paint her Pokémon. I gave her a copy, and then Eli asked if she could have one too."

"And what of those Pokémon?" Grimsley asked, still gazing at the one with the crab Pokémon in the snow.

"Those are Crabrawler and Crabominable. I was climbing Mt. Lanakila and saw them playing. I thought it would make a cute painting."

"Mina has a great eye on detail, doesn't she?" Eli asked and chuckled.

"She does, indeed," Grimsley said with a small smile. He approached a small table with a few framed pictures on it. One picture was of Eli with a man, which Grimsley assumed to be her late husband and Hapu's grandfather. The other picture was of a young woman with a Mudsdale surrounded by barren land.

"Is that you and your Mudsdale?" Grimsley asked, and Eli nodded.

"Mindy and I lost one of the island challenge trials. She got so upset and ran away." A nostalgic smile pulled on her lips. "I caught up to her and comforted Mindy, telling her we would do better next time."

"Grandmother told me that story numerous times, and I never got tired of it," Hapu said as she approached Eli and Grimsley.

"I get that," Selene said. "I lost Mallow's trial and Franz didn't like that one bit. After some more training, we were able to beat that Totem Lurantis in our rematch!"

A stunned expression flashed on Eli's face for a second. "A Totem Lurnatis? Ho, that’s impressive!" She then said, "Hapu and I will get dinner ready. Selene, Lillie, would you two like to help?"

"Sure!" Selene said, beaming. "I enjoy cooking sometimes."

Lillie wore a similar expression and said, "I would love to help also."

"Wonderful. All right, come with me."

The next hour or so Hapu and Eli were teaching Selene and Lillie how to cook one of their dishes while Grimsley and Mina watched the television. Sometimes he glanced over his shoulder to see Eli guiding the girls’ hands when they cut the Poni radish. Lillie and Selene often giggled and grinned, enjoying themselves there. Grimsley smiled a little, reminiscing about the time when the family cook happily taught him several dishes.

When the food was finished, everyone gathered around the dining table and ate dinner. Grimsley’s mouth twitched at the Poni radish’s spiciness, but he found himself enjoying the rice and chicken. Lillie and Selene first talked about what happened in Exeggutor Island in more detail. Grimsley was surprised Wicke and Lillie had Pokémon with them. After that, they mentioned how they met Hapu, first on Akala Island and then on Ula’ula Island. Upon hearing the phrase ‘Ruins of Abundance’, Grimsleys’ eyes grew wide as he heard of that before.

“Wait, so you must be the trainer that helped Lillie get to Ruins of Abundance,” Grimsley said.

“Oh, so Lillie mentioned me before, did she?” Hapu said and chuckled. “I wanted to go to the Ruins of Abundance myself, so we went there together.”

That piqued Grimsley’s interest. He swallowed his food and raised a brow.

“You talked about being away from your home to prove yourself. Is that why you went to the Ruins of Abundance?”

Hapu nodded. “I went to the other three islands’ sacred ruins to battle the tapu.”

Grimsley, Lillie, and Selene let out surprised gasps. Mina and Eli’s faces were calm, as if they knew this already.

“Kahuna Hala told me that the tapu are like crazy strong,” Selene said.

“They are, indeed. Tapu Koko managed to get through my Ground-type Pokémon, and Tapu Lele wasn’t any easier.”

“How about Tapu Bulu?” Lillie asked. “They didn’t appear before us when we went to the ruins.”

“Tapu Bulu came to me at Blush Mountain a day or two after that. My Pokémon were no match against them, but they seemed to acknowledge me having potential.”

Eli hummed and closed her eyes. “Sometime last year Tapu Fini was about to choose Mina as the next kahuna. Hapu and I then convinced them to wait and they agreed.”

Grimsley finished chewing on the Poni radish and stopped. He pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes.

“Really? Kahuna Nanu mentioned he didn’t have a choice in becoming a kahuna.”

“It’s probably because Tapu Fini liked Kahuna Sofu and made an exception,” Mina said with a small smile. “I didn’t want to become a kahuna anyways, so it all worked out.”

With a blinking stare, Grimsley mused that Mina would make a decent kahuna after the way she taught him Z-Moves. His mind jumped to how Tapu Fini could make spirits appear, and a burning desire to see them returned.

“I read that Tapu Fini can bring the spirits of those who had passed on. Do any of you know how much of that is true?”

Everyone on the table gave out stunned faces. Hapu and Eli exchanged hesitant looks, and then the younger woman fixed her stare at him.

“There have been stories of Tapu Fini bringing in the souls to their loved ones,” Hapu said. “Those that stayed inside Tapu Fini’s mist though never returned.”

“I remember reading the same thing,” Lillie said. “You’ve also read that one book on the tapu?”

“I did. It was what got me interested in both Tapu Bulu and Tapu Fini.”

“I haven’t lost anyone important to me yet,” Selene said, lowering her head. “If I did and then they came back as spirits, I’m not sure how I would react.”

Grimsley frowned, feeling the same way. Upon first reading Tapu Fini’s powers he wanted to see his father one last time. And now, he wasn’t sure if he was ready for that.

“Nanu told me I should stay away from that tapu for that purpose.”

“Old man Nanu is right,” Mina said. “I’ve seen Tapu Fini’s powers firsthand, and they’re not to be taken lightly.”

After finishing her meal, Hapu said, “That aside, I plan to visit Tapu Fini and challenge them to a battle. I wouldn’t mind some company.”

“I want to join!” Selene said, grinning. “Would be cool to see you as a kahuna.”

“I’ll come too,” Lillie said. “Nebby isn’t feeling good now, so maybe Tapu Fini might help.”

“Of course I’m going,” Mina said. “I don’t want to miss this big moment of yours.”

“I’m curious how the Ruins of Hope looks compared to the Ruins of Abundance,” Grimsley said, rubbing his chin. “I’ll come also.”

With a grin, Hapu said, “Great! We’ll all go to the ruins tomorrow.”

Grimsley hummed and resumed eating his food. A part of him was interested to see how strong a tapu was. He would just go with everyone to the Ruins of Hope tomorrow, nothing more.

Xxx

After being separated from the other group, Nanu contacted Looker to let him know that he and Charlotte would meet him and Anabel at the Pokémon Center soon. Charlotte kept in pace with him as they headed there.

Looker decided that they need to tell Anabel the truth tonight.

“So you believe telling her now is a good idea?” Nanu asked.

“Positive, I am,” Looker said through the phone. “Interpol will send her to the frontlines the instant the UBs reappear. Anabel will have an opportunity to act on her own accord before that happens.”

“You’re right. Those suckers won’t think twice in doing that.” Nanu sucked in a breath. “I know you said you’ll take the blow for me, but that doesn’t feel right. I’ll be here for support if you need it.”

There was a pause on Looker’s side, and then he said, “I appreciate that very much, Nanu.”

“No problem, Jean.” Nanu’s mouth twitched. Again he called Looker by his real name, but there was an air of dread between them. “Charlotte and I will see you two in a bit.”

He hung up and put his phone back in the pocket of his short sleeve jacket. Charlotte gazed up at him, frowning.

“You two are going to break the news to Anabel.”

“We have to, or else Interpol will send the girl to her death.” Nanu sighed and dragged his fingers through his hair. “I’m not looking forward to her reaction.”

“Maybe so, but at least you’re doing the right thing,” Charlotte said, smiling and patting his shoulder.

Doing the right thing. Nanu couldn’t remember the last time he acted based on the good of his heart. Well, helping out in Po Town probably counts, but he went there to get some insider info on Guzma for his friend. Either way, this had to be done.

It was several more minutes until they made it to the Pokémon Center. Anabel and Looker sat on the stone bench and greeted them with warm smiles. Nanu could tell Looker was a nervous wreck with the way his lips and fingers twitched.

“How was your guys trip to Exeggutor Island?” Anabel asked.

“We had to deal with some wild Pinsir harassing the Exeggutor and stay in a cave for a bit due to the rain. Otherwise, we got what we needed.”

With a smile and a nod, Charlotte said, “Lillie and Selene have the Sun Flute with them. They’re away with a friend of Mina’s at the moment.”

“That’s great news!” Looker said, beaming. “Now the Legendary Pokémon of Alola can be summoned.”

The smile on Anabel’s face faded. “A part of me still worried something might go wrong.”

“As long as we monitor Ms. Selene and Lillie’s whereabouts, it should be fine,” Charlotte said with a reassuring smile.

Sensu-style Oricoro began singing just as the sun was setting, and the ocean breeze grew bitterly cold. Usually Nanu would be annoyed at the Oricoros’ shrieking, but right now he couldn’t bring himself to care. He stared at Looker, and they shared heavy nods.

“Anabel, there’s something Looker and I have to tell you.”

Anabel blinked. “Hm? What is it?”

He and Looker exchanged distant stares, and the other agent spoke in a grave tone.

“How much do you remember from ten years ago, Chief?”

Anabel’s eyes grew wide, and she gasped. Her fingers touched her lips.

“Not very much. You and Officer Nanu found me on this very island, and I was recovering at the hospital. I could only remember my name, that I was from Hoenn, and a large tower.”

Looker’s frown deepened. “Recently you uncovered another part of your memory. Brendon is the man’s name, correct?”

Nanu pursed his lips. He had heard of the Battle Frontier facility. It had been around for quite some time in Sinnoh and Johto, and recently in Hoenn with plans for expansion soon. The Brandon in Anabel’s world was probably more of a hot shot than the one here.

“Yes! I vaguely remembered him from when I was a teenager.” A small smile formed on Anabel’s lips. “I’m getting closer to figuring out who I was.”

When a hesitant look crossed Looker’s look, Nanu furrowed his brow at him. No, don’t back down now you fool.

When Looker inhaled and said his next words, Nanu wished he had backed down.

“Anabel… You are not from this world.”

Anabel’s head flinched back and her brow squeezed together. “What does that mean?”

“Interpol referred to those that come from an Ultra Wormhole as Fallers. They’ve been used as bait for the Ultra Beasts.”

Anabel grew pale, the color draining on her face.

“Has there been any other Fallers before me?”

Looker opened his mouth, only for Nanu to beat him to it.

“Looker and I worked with one before. She got killed by one of the UBs shortly before you came along.”

“That Faller was someone special to me,” Charlotte said, bowing her head as if in mourning. “I was heartbroken when that happened.”

Anabel still visibly shaken, Looker approached her and stretched a hand toward her.

“An... Anabel, I’m deeply so--”

“No,” Anabel snapped as she slapped Looker’s hand away from her. She raised her voice. “Is this why I wasn’t able to trust myself? That everything I’ve done in Interpol was so I can be bait to these monsters?” She gave both Looker and Nanu a wild glare, tears streaming on her face. “What hurts the most is how you and Officer Nanu kept this from me all this time! Why?”

Nanu’s stomach lurched and twisted in a knot. Looker grimaced and turned his head, unable to look at Anabel in the eye. Charlotte frowned at them out of sympathy.

“We didn’t mean to keep you in the dark this long,” Nanu said. “The higher ups threatened your safety if word gets out.”

“You could’ve warned me at least!” Anabel shouted. “I… I trusted you two!”

She slapped both Looker and Nanu’s faces and rushed off sobbing.

“Chief, wait!” Looker was about to follow after her, but she released her Salamence who stomped on one leg and let out a roar. Anabel glared at Looker for a moment before turning to her Pokémon.

“I need some time alone.” She hopped on him and they took off, the beat of the dragon’s wings releasing a gush of wind at Looker and pushing him over. Charlotte rushed to him.

“Are you all right?” she asked while helping pick Looker up.

“I’m not hurt, but I appreciate the concern.” Looker dusted off the dirt on his jacket, frowning. “I too need to be away for a while.”

As they watched Looker leave, Nanu sighed and lowered his head while Charlotte rested a hand on his shoulder. He rubbed his cheek where Anabel had given him one heck of a slap, still feeling the sting there.

He had been ashamed of himself for a long while, but now more than ever.

Author's Notes:
Mina's paintings are inspired from the anime!

Thanks to bobandbill for betaing as always. Will try to get the next chapter in next month. See you then!

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Chapter Twenty-Three
Beat Up

Grimsley returned to the Pokémon Center with Lillie and Selene later that night. The girls went to Nurse Joy at the receptionist desk and reserved rooms for themselves. Nanu wasn’t in the lounge when they arrived, so he assumed either the kahuna was still away or went to bed early. He stayed with the girls for about an hour, and they promised they would eat breakfast together tomorrow before he too retired to his own room.

The next morning, Grimsley went to Nanu’s room and knocked at his door. A disgruntled “What?” from him was shouted from the other side. Grimsley cleared his throat.

“I’m about to have breakfast with Lillie and Selene now. Would you like to join us?”

A moment passed until Nanu said, “Er, I’m not hungry right now. You guys can go ahead.”

Grimsley narrowed his eyes and pressed his lips. “The girls and I didn’t see you last night. Did you go to bed early?”

“Huh?” A long pause. “You can say that. Tired from going to that island and all.”

Raising a brow, Grimsley somehow wasn’t convinced that was the case. He decided to leave him for now and told him that he would be at the lounge if he changed his mind.

Shortly after, he and the girls ate breakfast together. While eating his pancakes and sausage, he listened to Selene talk about how she was able to defeat Guzma in their first battle.

“So after Meli defeated his Masquerain, he sent out his Golisopod again. The two had a hard-fought battle, but then I ended it with Meli’s Z-Move! He was a sore loser after that.”

“I wasn’t a fan of Pokémon battles, but seeing Selene put her full trust in her Pokémon was a beautiful sight to see,” Lillie said, and that made Selene blush.

“After seeing you go against Guzma back in Po Town, I can see why,” Grimsley said with a chuckle.

The three ate the rest of breakfast in silence. Once they were done, Hapu and Mina entered the Pokémon Center.

“Alola, Alola!” Mina said and waved to everyone. “Are you all ready to go?”

“Ah huh!” Selene said, beaming. “Can’t wait to see Tapu Fini!”

“I brought both my and my grandma’s Mudsdale with me, so you girls can take hers while Grimsley will ride with me.”

“And how about Mina?” Grimsley asked.

“I’ll be riding on her Flygon,” Mina said. “It’ll be fun seeing you guys from above!”

Grimsley blinked, and then he grunted. He was only slightly taken aback by that response.

“You guys are going to see Tapu Fini?” someone asked. Grimsley turned around to see Nanu approaching them and scratching the back of his head.

Hapu nodded. “I’m taking them to the Ruins of Hope with me. I’m going there to seek Tapu Fini’s approval to become Kahuna of this island.”

Nanu flinched, and he furrowed his brow at Grimsley. “I thought I told you to not go see that tapu.”

“I’m only coming with them to see the Ruins of Hope and Hapu becoming kahuna,” Grimsley said as he crossed his arms. “Nothing more.”

Nanu raised a suspicious brow, only to later let out a huff.

“As long as you don’t do anything stupid.” He jerked his head for a second. “Have any of you seen Agents Anabel and Looker? I checked their rooms, and they haven’t returned yet.”

Grimsley shook his head, and so did Lillie and Selene.

“Did something happen between you guys?” Mina asked.

“Kinda, but it’s very personal and I can’t say more than that. How about Wicke?”

“Oh, Wicke told Selene and I that she’ll be at Poni Beach,” Lillie said.

Nanu’s eyes grew wide before his expression changed back to an indifferent one. “All right, I’ll be heading there then. You guys have fun at the Ruins of Hope.”

Grimsley blinked and stared off in the distance when Nanu left the Pokémon Center. So something did happen between Nanu and his friends last night and he was troubled by it. It must be serious if he was worried about them.

“Well, if all of you finished eating already we can head out now!” Hapu said, grinning.

Everyone hummed in agreement. After cleaning up the table with Lillie and Selene, Grimsley went outside with the others.

Now, to the Ruins of Hope.

Xxx

Connecting Ancient Poni Path and the Ruins of Hope was the Poni Breaker Coast, a cliffside beach with large waves crashing on the shore. Several geysers erupted like volcanoes and sprayed on Grimsley’s face, causing him to spit out the salty water from his mouth.

He and Hapu rode on Bricks, her Mudsdale. They led the way while Selene and Lillie on Eli’s Mudsdale were behind them. The horses’ hooves smacked hard on the black stones stuck on the ground. He was reminded of when he rode on a Mudsdale to the Ruins of Abundance, the horse Pokémon able to get through the sharp stones with ease. Mina was up in the air with Hapu’s Flygon, the Mystic Pokémon shrieking and circling around.

“Oh I’m curious, what are your Flygon’s and grandmother’s Mudsdale’s names?” Lillie asked.

“My Flygon’s name is Buttercup while my grandma named hers good ol’ Marie. All three Pokémon had been with my family since my grandparents were trainers.”

“So is it just you and your grandmother together, then?” Grimsley asked, noticing how much she praised her grandparents.

“Yes. My pa left when I was a youngin while my ma passed away, so Grandpa Sofu and Grandma Eli watched over me instead.”

“My mom and I are my only family too after my parents separated,” Selene said. “Mom is going back to school and I’m proud of her for that!”

“Speaking of which, do you still have trouble with the assignment Ms. Emily gave you?” Lillie asked, and Selene groaned.

“It’s not hard, just that the short stories she assigned were boring. Hau thought the same.”

Lillie pouted and said, “If I were you I would finish those after we finish with the Ruins of Hope today.”

“Cheren, the gym leader in Unova I told you about before, would say the same thing if he were your teacher,” Grimsley said. He had been in Cheren’s classes a few times before, his teaching style firm but flexible. Selene probably wouldn’t survive in his class.

Eventually they stopped at a large body of water, resembling a small lake. Everyone hopped off the Mudsdale and walked to the edge of it. At that moment, Mina and Buttercup landed on the ground and joined the group.

“Okay, so we’re ready?” Mina asked with a clap of her hands.

“Wait, so where are the Ruins of Hope?” Selene asked, tilting her head. “Don’t tell me it’s below that lake!”

Mina nodded, her bangs bobbing with her head. “Ah huh. However, wait and watch.”

Grimsley, Lillie, and Selene stood still and waited a moment until the water was slowly drained out. Down below, beautiful coral reefs of different colors were in front of the Ruins of Hope entrance. Grimsley’s eyes grew wide while Lillie and Selene gasped in amazement.

Hapu closed her eyes and inhaled. “All right, let’s go.”

Everyone followed her down the steps and into the Ruins of Hope. The first room was similar to the Ruins of Abundance but with rushing water instead of sand. A Wailmer and a Clawitzer popped up, splashing the floor a little. The group moved forward.

The next room also bears some resemblance to the Ruins of Abundance. They were in the middle of the wooden floorboards and the altar with the totem on top stood in front of them. More waters surrounded the area, and a light mist rolled in.

“You should bring Nebby out,” Selene said.

Lillie hummed and opened her bag. She pulled out Nebby, sleeping in her palms.

Grimsley gazed up and watched as Hapu took the stairs up to the altar. She bowed down in front of the totem.

“Oh Tapu Fini, guardian of Poni Island and the waters. I’ve traveled through all of Alola, fought against the Totems, and was tested by the Tapu--all so I can be by your side. Show yourself so that I may be chosen as the next kahuna and follow in my grandpa’s footsteps!”

Several seconds passed with no response. Hapu lifted her head and her eyes flared.

“Why?” Hapu cried out. “Why aren’t you giving me your blessings now? Am I not strong enough yet? Did I do something wrong? Please answer me!”

No response once more. Grimsley narrowed his eyes and swallowed, the air growing thicker. He glanced to see Lillie, Selene, and Mina frowning.

Hapu came down the stairs, her head hanging down. Mina patted her shoulder when she joined back with the group.

“Maybe Tapu Fini is waiting for the right moment to see you like Tapu Bulu,” Mina said, trying to sound hopeful.

“Perhaps.” Hapu sighed and dropped her gaze on the floor. “I thought Tapu Fini would choose me the moment I returned.”

“Nebby isn’t responding here either,” Lillie said in a concerned voice. In her hands, Nebby was still sleeping.

“Can Tapu Fini do anything to help it?” Selene asked.

“I’m not sure. I just thought it was worth a shot.” Lillie gently put Nebby back inside her bag and closed it. “Perhaps going to the Altar of the Sunne might help.”

“Is that where you girls plan to go next?” Grimsley asked with a raised brow.

Lillie nodded. “We have to go through the Vast Poni Canyon first, though. I heard the PokéRide service isn't used as much here.”

Selene turned to Hapu and Mina. “You think you two can help us through there, then?”

“Bricks and I are more than happy to lend a hand,” Hapu said, smiling. “We can set out there tomorrow morning since it’ll be a long trek.”

Mina wore a similar expression. “Of course. It’s not everyday you get to see a legendary.”

Selene and Lillie giggled and grinned at each other.

“I wish all of you a safe trip.” When Grimsley looked up at the altar, his smile faded. He was disappointed that Tapu Fini didn’t appear and use their powers, but perhaps it was for the best.

Xxx

Nanu usually avoided Poni Beach whenever he visited the island, but this time he went there to find Charlotte. A few Mantine surfers were hitting the waves, attempting several complicated tricks. The sunlight hit his face, and the warm sand got stuck in-between his toes.

He remembered how the sun was low and the sky a swirl of orange and purple. How light Anabel was when he picked her up. How the smell of her blood clung inside his nostrils.

Charlotte stood at the edge of the shore, her voluptuous hair swaying with the ocean breeze. She turned her head and smiled at him.

“Sana always loved beaches. We would hold hands and walk along the shore.”

“I don’t know why people think that’s romantic. You get sand in your shoes, bad sunburn, and water Pokémon bothering you.” Nanu then said, “This was where Looker and I found Anabel.”

Charlotte gasped, and she frowned. “I recall you telling me she was badly injured.”

“Mhm. She was taken to the Hau’oli City Hospital and we were by her side while she recovered.” He snorted. “You should’ve seen Looker. He didn’t take his eyes off her for one second.”

Charlotte chuckled. “Sounds like you two really cared for her.”

Nanu swallowed hard. He remembered Anabel sleeping on the hospital bed with slow breaths and Looker holding her hand. When she woke up, she only remembered three things: her name, Hoenn, and a tower.

She mentioned a nightmare of a burly creature chasing her and felt as if that had happened before.

“Speaking of which, have you seen either of those two?” he asked, and Charlotte shook her head.

“I haven’t seen Anabel returned yet, and I’m not sure where Looker is. They probably need some space at the moment. I hope that they’re okay.”

“Me too.” Nanu stared off at the ocean, the Mantine surfers still riding the waves.

“Yo, Officer Nanu!” a female voice shouted. He turned around to see the Team Skull punks Dennis and Felicia approaching him.

“What are you two fools doing here?” Nanu asked in a stunned voice.

“We came here with our big sis and the rest of the gang,” Dennis said, gesturing his arms. “You then popped up here too.”

Charlotte blinked in confusion. “You know these two?”

“Kinda. They’re a couple of kids from Team Skull who’ve been bothering me recently.”

Felicia glared at Nanu, her hands on her hips. “What you and your crew did in the Shady House was whacked, embarrassing our boy Guzma like that.”

“Hey, you guys distracted me and stole a kid’s Yungoos. I wouldn’t call that chivalry.”

Both grunts sneered, and then Dennis said, “We only did what we were told to do! And right now we want some payback!”

As Felicia and Dennis stepped forward, they pulled out their pokeballs. Charlotte flinched and tugged at Nanu’s sleeve.

“You sure about this?” she whispered, but Nanu ignored her question. If they wanted payback, he was going to give it to them. He grabbed a pokeball of his own and was about to press the button--

“Why are you numbskulls bothering the officer?”

A young woman stood in front of everyone with her arms crossed. She wore black clothing and a necklace with Team Skull’s symbol like the other grunts, but had long pants on and the team’s symbol tattooed on her stomach. Her pink and yellow hair was tied in four ponytails. Dennis and Felicia flinched upon seeing their big sister, Plumeria.

“Big sis!” Felicia called out. She and Dennis bowed their heads at her. “Officer Nanu went to the Shady House with some backup and defeated Guzma.”

“Yeah!” Dennis followed up, raising his fist. “We were about to show him who’s boss.”

Plumeria narrowed her eyes at them. “That won’t be necessary. I’ll take things from here.”

“Are you gonna kick his butt for us then?” Felicia asked, and Plumeria shook her head.

“Just trust me on this. Now leave before you make things worse.”

The two grunts shook at Plumeria’s raised voice, and they rushed off. She sighed and dragged her hand on her face.

“Sorry about that. They were pretty upset with what happened to Guzma.”

“Is he the reason why you and your goons are here?” Nanu asked.

“Yeah. After Guzma and the president disappeared, we tried to find a way to get them back.” She stared at Charlotte, raising a brow. “Aren’t you from Aether? How come you’re here?”

“Kahuna Nanu and I are past acquaintances. I’m here for some important business.”

Nanu looked at Charlotte, and then at Plumeria. Thoughts of Guzma and her father rushed back at him. He turned back to Charlotte.

“I need a moment alone with Plumeria. There are some things I want to talk to her about.”

“That’s fine with me. I’ll be around Seafolk Village if you need me.” Charlotte gave him a small nod and headed out.

Nanu’s sandals and feet got soaked as a large wave crashed onto the shore. He stared at Plumeria a moment before he cleared his throat and spoke.

“You knew about Guzma’s connection to Lusamine and Aether Foundation,” he said. Plumeria glared at him.

“I guess you would know sooner or later. But yes, the two were in contact for sometime. She was the first adult in a long while to take Guzma’s strength seriously.”

“Was she the one to order you to get Cosmog and attack Aether House?”

“The president wanted us to get that Pokémon while Guzma came up with the plan for that. I didn’t know the reasonings behind it until we hit up Aether Paradise.”

Nanu’s mouth twitched. He still couldn’t believe Team Skull had been played by Aether’s own president. Such a mess.

“Selene, another trainer, and I went against Guzma a few days ago, who showed off his Mega Pinsir. Your father was the one that gave the both of you Mega Stones and Keystones, am I right?”

Plumeria’s eyes grew wide with shock. She bit her lip and jerked her head away from him.

“He got the Pinsirite and Gengarite Mega Stones from training a lot in the Battle Tree and gave those to us as gifts. I despised Tapu Bulu for causing his death.”

Nanu blinked, though he didn’t blame her for holding a grudge for that long. He snorted and a smirk pulled on his lips.

“I felt the same way, and still am, after that tapu appointed me as kahuna. It’s more of a punishment than a blessing.”

Plumeria burst out laughing. “Guzma told me how you didn’t care about being a kahuna.”

“He’s not entirely wrong. I’m now waiting until I turn to dust.”

Plumeria narrowed her eyes and shook her head. She fixed her gaze at the ocean.

“You heard how Tapu Fini can bring back spirits, right? If my father were here today, what would he think of me?”

Nanu frowned. He recalled Grimsley going to the Ruins of Hope with the girls, still hoping he wasn’t that stupid.

“One other person was seeking Tapu Fini for that purpose. Are you doing the same?”

Plumeria’s shoulders jumped, and she turned around with a pensive expression on her face.

“I’m unsure. That wasn’t my initial plan here, but I can’t help but be curious…”

“I would advise you not to, but I’m not your babysitter.” Nanu then said, “What will you do after you get Guzma?”

Frowning, Plumeria dropped her gaze on the ground. “I’m not sure about that either. Still be in Team Skull, I guess.”

Nanu regarded her a moment. “You did the Island Challenge before, right?”

“I did, but then stopped when Guzma started our gang. Dennis and Felicia also stopped their Island Challenge.”

Right, several of the Team Skull kids were trainers that were unsuccessful with the Island Challenge. Now all they did was pick fights and trash the mansion. Nanu grunted and rubbed his chin.

“I think you and your siblings should finish your Island Challenge, perhaps even join the Pokémon League once that finishes.”

“I heard you turned down the Elite Four role, so it’s ironic you would suggest that to me.”

Nanu shrugged. “I don’t care about being one, but I think the experience will be good for you.”

Plumeria furrowed her brow, but she seemed to consider his suggestion.

“I’ll think about it.” She shifted her head for a second. “I need to go and make sure my siblings don’t do anything stupid. Guess I’ll see you later, Nanu.”

Plumeria started to leave, Nanu watching her until he couldn’t see her from a long distance anymore. He stared at the sky, the sunlight hitting his forehead and cheeks.

Nanu jumped when a shrill “Tapuuuu” came. Was that Tapu Fini? He whipped his head to see if they appeared, but only colorful sparkles were left behind. He raised a brow but grunted and left the beach himself.

Tapu Fini was close, he could feel it. He was sure that should cause some concerns.

Author's Note
Hi, everyone, I'll quickly mention something important. With the Black Lives Matter movement gaining momentum, it's important more than ever for us to fight against police brutality on Black people. This BLM carrd is a great resource for petitions, donations, and basically any other information to learn more about this cause and how you can help.

Due to recent events and in support of the BLM movement, posting for Foul Play will be on hold until mid to late July. Those participating in the protests stay safe, and those supporting the cause in other ways keep it up!

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Chapter Twenty-Four
Topsy-Turvy

It was late afternoon when the group returned to Hapu and her grandmother’s house. Eli and her Machamp stopped pulling out Poni radish when they noticed them coming. Mina hopped off from Hapu’s Flygon and everyone else from their Mudsdale.

“How was the Ruins of Hope?” Eli asked when she approached them.

“It was great!” Selene said, beaming. “The ruin’s entrance was underwater, and that water drained itself when we arrived there!”

“This is the second ruin I visited, and the scenery inside was just as charming,” Grimsley said.

“That’s wonderful to hear.” Eli turned to Hapu. “Do you have Tapu Fini’s blessing?”

“Unfortunately, no.” Hapu hung her head down and her shoulders slumped. “I went up to the altar and nothing happened.”

Eli gasped and frowned, before exchanging sad glances with Machamp. Bricks went up to Hapu with a soft neigh, rubbing his head on her side. Hapu stroked his cheek.

“Perhaps Tapu Fini thinks it’s not the right time yet,” Eli said with a reassuring smile. “You just have to be patient.”

“Mina told me the same thing.” Hapu furrowed her brow, a determined expression spreading across her face. “Tapu Fini must be somewhere on this island, and I’m going to find them!”

“Woah there Hapu, are you sure?” Mina asked in a shocked voice. “The tapu tend to stay and go as they please.”

“I don’t care,” Hapu said in a sharp voice, which made everyone including Grimsley flinch. “I won’t rest until I find Tapu Fini.” She returned Buttercup, hopped on Bricks, and they rushed off.

Grimsley gave a distant stare at that sight. He looked over his shoulder to see everyone else having similar expressions.

“Hapu must be taking this hard,” Lillie said with a worried look on her face. “Should we go after her?”

Eli shook her head and sighed. “I’ll give her a few hours to herself. I don’t blame her, though. Becoming kahuna has been her life goal.”

Grimsley hummed and crossed his arms against his chest. “That is a stark contrast to Nanu, who didn’t want to become a kahuna but ended up in that role anyways.”

Like a lightbulb switch, Eli burst out laughing with her hands on her stomach. “You’re not wrong on that. I’m ever grateful though for him watching over Poni Island up to this point.” She then said, “You guys want some lunch while you’re all here?”

“Sure!” Mina said, her lips forming a small smile. “I’m kinda craving some spam musubi if you have any.”

“Oh, that sounds awesome!” Selene said. “I eat those all the time back in Kanto!”

Eli chuckled. “That won’t be a problem at all.”

Grimsley considered Eli’s offer for a moment. He had been out most of the afternoon and the walk back to the Pokémon Center was over half an hour. Some food would be nice.

“I can stay here a while longer.”

Eli clapped her hands, a wide grin crossing her features. “Great! You guys relax while Bono and I make them quick.” She turned to her Machamp Bono, who nodded and cheered

Everyone went inside the house, Grimsley following behind.

xxx

The rest of the afternoon Grimsley stayed inside and ate lunch with the others. The spam musubi was good if a bit salty for his taste buds. He was taken back how many of those Mina could eat in a minute, as if she was in a hot dog eating contest. Grimsley talked of Unova’s Pokémon League and his wealthy upbringing. It wasn’t a surprise that Selene got excited hearing about the Elite Four and Gym Leaders. Lillie was curious how Mina became a Trial Captain, to which the fairy-type trainer said she was chosen by Kahuna Sofu several months before he passed away.

“I was coming back from a trip to Kanto, and he wanted me to go against the Totem Kommo-o as a test,” Mina continued. She chewed and swallowed another large chunk of the spam musubi. “Despite fairy-type moves being very effective on Kommo-o, that dragon was able to go against my Pokémon well and I barely won. Old man Sofu watched the whole fight and appointed me trial captain then and there.”

“That’s very cool!” Selene said excitedly. “I can’t wait to go against it!”

“I agree, that was a nice story,” Lillie said, nodding.

“You have a Brionne, don’t you Selene?” Mina asked, this time with her mouth full. “I can help you train and perhaps he might evolve into a Primarina.”

Selene beamed. “Yeah, that would be great!”

Eli chuckled and her face softened. “I’m glad my husband had chosen you as Trial Captain before he passed away.”

Grimsley hummed and glanced at the clock on the wall, seeing it was almost three o’clock. He wondered if there was any more he and Nanu needed to do on this island. And if not...

“I think I’ll head out to the Pokémon Center and see if Nanu is there. We’re due to head back to Ula’ula Island soon.”

“That’s understandable,” Lillie said. “I’ll stay here and see if Hapu returns.”

“Me too,” Selene said. “That way we can discuss plans for tomorrow.”

“A wise decision.” Grimsley rose from his chair and smiled at everyone. “I’ll take my leave now. I’ve enjoyed the hospitality here, Eli and Mina.”

“I’m very happy to hear that,” Eli said, grinning.

“Hey, not a problem at all!” Mina said and smiled. “Maybe I’ll catch you two before you guys leave.”

“I would like that.” Grimsley wished everyone a good day, waved goodbye to everyone, and headed out.

It was still bright and sunny outside, the warm air being offset by the ocean breeze. Grimsley flipped his coin as he glanced around his surroundings, moving from the barren farmlands of Ancient Poni Path and into the lush greenery of Poni Wilds. Several Pokémon like Gumshoos, Exeggecute, and Inkay roamed around the tall grasses and trees while the Pelipper flew high above.

While walking, Grimsley briefly wondered if Hapu was here. He only just met her, but to him she was very ambitious and driven. He hoped she returned back home safely.

“Tapuuuuu.”

Grimsley stopped when he heard that chant. He whipped his head around, but only saw a couple Pokémon on the trees. He pressed his lips, but then he shrugged and continued.

“Tapuuuuu.”

Grimsley halted once more; he swore that sounded like “tapu.” Could Tapu Fini be nearby?

As he pushed further toward the sound, the air grew much colder and the sunlight dimmed. A thick mist rolled in, and now Grimsley’s vision was slightly obscured. He wasn’t sure where he was now.

A chill shot through his spine when he realized this must be Tapu Fini’s mist. Nanu, Hapu, and Mina had warned him not to pursue the tapu, and now he was trapped inside the mist.

“Are you here, Tapu Fini?” Grimsley shouted. He kept repeating Tapu Fini’s name, but so far got nothing back.

“Grimsley, is that you?” a male voice asked. Grimsley turned around and stood there in stunned silence.

An older man in a dark grey suit appeared before him. His brown hair was in a neat cut and slicked hairstyle, just as Grimsley remembered when he had been younger. A grin stretched across his face, his blue eyes brimming with bright light. A moment passed until Grimsley spoke.

“Father?”

Xxx

Nanu returned to the Pokémon Center to see if his Interpol colleagues were there. When he didn’t see them there, he headed to the Poni Wilds. Many of the Pokémon were playing or hanging on the trees, but Nanu was lost in his thoughts to pay attention to any of them.

Anabel’s reaction to his and Looker’s confession replayed in his mind. He knew that would happen, but it still stung him like a Beedrill’s behind to see her upset like that. She was right that they should’ve told her long ago.

Nanu stopped when he saw Charlotte and Looker together, the former squeezing the latter’s shoulder. They hung their heads down.

“Hey, you two,” he said while approaching them. The two turned to his direction with surprised looks.

“Oh, hi Triples. Looker and I were talking about Anabel. How was your talk with that Team Skull girl?”

“It went better than expected. We talked about some personal stuff, that’s all.” He paused. “Where were you, Looker?”

Looker shook his head. “I slept on Poni Beach throughout the night, and then wandered off here. The Chief’s wellbeing is still on my mind.”

A deep frown crossed Nanu’s face and his mouth twitched. “While I understand Anabel needing space, I’m worried about her.”

“As do I,” Looker said. “She and Pablo could be anywhere on this island. Alola, even!”

“Let’s try to find her now then before it gets dark,” Charlotte said, and both Looker and Nanu grunted in agreement.

“We can ask the seafolk if they’ve seen her around recently and go from--”

Nanu was interrupted when someone bellowed “Tapuuuu.” He jerked his head around but saw only the rustling grass and roaming Pokémon. Looker and Charlotte exchanged worried glances.

“Did you two hear that?” he asked them, and they nodded.

“Yes,” Looker said. “The voice shouted ‘tapuuuu’, if I recall.”

Nanu gave a sharp nod. “It seems like Tapu Fini is close by.”

“Tapu Fini is one of the Alolan guardians like Tapu Bulu, right?” Charlotte asked.

“Yup. This island’s guardian is bad news, especially if you accidentally get inside their mist.”

“Mist?” Looker’s face jumped, his eyes growing wide. “Like the one coming out now?”

“What?” Nanu turned his head and noticed some mist began to form. His stomach dropped. “We have to get out of here now!”

“How about Anabel?” Charlotte asked. “Will something happen to her?”

Nanu’s jaws clenched. He wasn’t sure if Anabel had lost a loved one from her world, but if she did and stumbled upon Tapu Fini...

Before he could respond, someone was approaching them. She was a dark figure at first due to the mist but became more visible the closer she got. She wore a dark suit and bluetooth behind her ear. Nanu thought that was Anabel on his first guess, but she had darker hair and skin than her. His heart almost skipped a beat.

“It’s been a while, Chief,” Sana said, flashing him a grin.

xxx

The last time Grimsley saw his father was at his wake the night before his burial. He was inside a coffin with his face pale as snow and resting peacefully. And now Finn Thomas was in front of him, his grin stretching across his face.

At the back of his mind, Grimsley knew that wasn’t his father and that he was in Tapu Fini’s mist. But as soon as Father pulled him into a warm embrace, he melted inside his arms and didn’t care.

“You’ve grown so much!” Father said after they let go. “What you’ve been up to, my son?”

Grimsley felt the back of his neck burning and rubbed there. “Oh, well I became both a professional gambler and one of the members of the Elite Four.”

“One of the Elite Four?” Father let out an impressed whistle. “I take it the Pokémon League has changed since then?”

Grimsley hummed and nodded. “There were a lot of young wildcards like our current champion Iris Bailey, but they have great potential.”

His father chuckled. “You sound like your mother. Speaking of which, how is she?”

“She’s doing wonderful. Right now she’s living in Mistralton City and is good friends with Skyla the gym leader there.”

“Oh, Miles’s granddaughter is the gym leader now?” His eyes grew wide and he chuckled. “I remember her wanting to follow his footsteps at a young age.”

Miles was the former Mistralton City gym leader before Skyla took over, and a legendary pilot. He and Finn were good friends, and when his mother moved to Mistralton City she and Skyla spent a lot of time together. Grimsley mused how Skyla and Hapu were alike in taking the same paths as their grandfathers.

“I’ve seen her battle a few times and she’s quite good. She’s also a great pilot.”

“That’s great to hear!” Father then asked, “Are Queen and Raz still with you? I would love to meet them!”

Grimsley’s face softened. “Of course.”

He pulled out Queen and Raz’s pokeballs and released them. Queen stood still while Raz stretched her whole body. When Grimsley’s Pokémon noticed his father, they approached him and his father grinned.

“Oh wow, they both evolved and got a lot stronger!” Father said as he scratched Raz’s chin, the feline Pokémon purring under his touch. Queen smiled and nodded in acknowledgement.

“I had a full team by the time I was in the Elite Four, but Queen and Raz were with me the longest.”

“You must tell me about your Pokémon and how you became an Elite Four!”

Grimsley hummed and told him about his Pokémon journey. On occasion Father gave commentary or chuckled, but he mostly listened. The longer he was with his father, the more he didn’t want this moment to end.

xxx

The last time Nanu saw Sana was when his UB Task Force did their last mission together. They pushed through the cave in Poni Meadows and confronted Glutton. After their Pokémon did some good damage, the bulky Ultra Beast grabbed Sana and sunk its jaws into her.

Nanu kept having that nightmare, sometimes playing differently but always ending the same way. But here she was now, thanks to Tapu Fini’s magic.

“Hey, Sana,” he greeted her, his mouth twitching. “Long time, indeed.”

“Are you still working with Interpol? You usually wear a nice suit and all, but now you’re dressed like a homeless man.”

Nanu narrowed his eyes while Charlotte giggled behind him. Might as well humor her.

“Nope, recently retired from there. I’m now a kahuna and a police officer.”

“Kahuna? That’s one of those Alolan traditions, yeah? That’s actually great.”

Nanu grunted and crossed his arms. He didn’t think the same, but kept it to himself.

“Sana, honey!” Charlotte rushed to Sana and they twirled around in an embrace. Sana grinned with her hands on her hips.

“Wow, look at you now! You’ve always been a bombshell, but this is a whole new level.”

Charlotte’s cheeks blushed and her hands touched there. She batted her eyelashes and said, “Why, thank you.”

Nanu frowned throughout their conversation. He turned his head when Looker tapped on his arm.

“Is that really Sana?” Looker asked, and Nanu shook his head.

“This is all Tapu Fini’s doing. They’re able to make spirits of our late loved ones.”

“Spirits? So she’s like a ghost?”

“You can say that.” Nanu glanced at Charlotte and Sana, the two still talking and laughing. Looker regarded his words for a moment.

“”Even so, this is a good opportunity for me to say a few things off my chest.” He cleared his throat. “Sana?”

That caused Sana and Charlotte to stop and blink at Looker. Sana smiled at him.

“Hey, I didn’t forget you, KR. What’s up?”

Looker’s face tensed. He looked back at Nanu, who gave him a single nod. The agent inhaled and locked his gaze at her.

“I want to apologize for what happened ten years ago. I hesitated because I felt bad for Glutton.
If it wasn’t for my soft heart, you would’ve still been here today.”

“This is partially my fault, too,” Nanu said, his frown deepening. “I knew you were a Faller for a while but didn’t say anything. I should’ve warned you early on.”

Sana’s face fell, letting both men’s words sink in. She pressed her lips and her eyes narrowed, but there was some softness in her expression. Charlotte frowned at everyone.

“To be honest, I already had an idea I was being used with the way Interpol treated me. I stuck around because I wanted to help the Ultra Beasts any way I can.” Sana shrugged. “I would’ve gone through the mission with Glutton anyways.”

Nanu furrowed his brow while Looker lowered his head. Just as expected.

“I’ve been collecting data on the Ultra Beasts since then,” Charlotte said with a proud smile. “That way all your hard work didn’t go to waste.”

“That’s great that you picked it up, sweetheart!” The smile on Sana’s lips widened. “I’m so glad to meet the whole Task Force. I didn’t regret my time with you guys.”

Nanu’s heart sank. A part of him felt that he didn’t deserve Sana’s kindness there. Nonetheless, he appreciated it. Charlotte and Looker grinned, feeling the same way.

“Shadow Punch!” a new voice called out.

A Golurk blitzed through Nanu’s sight and punched Sana with their fist. She was engulfed in purple flames, making her disappear.The mist however didn’t clear. Charlotte shrieked in surprise while Looker’s mouth fell open.

Nanu stood in stunned silence for a second before he turned around to see Hapu on her Mudsdale. Mina, Selene, and Lillie were behind her also. Looker and Charlotte exchanged confused looks.

“Are you three all right?” Hapu asked.

“Yeah we’re fine,” Nanu said. “What are all of you doing here?”

“The three of us noticed the mist going around, and we came to find Hapu,” Mina said.

“After we found her, Hapu noticed you guys and we followed her here,” Selene said. Lillie responded with a nod.

“You all were under Tapu Fini’s mist, so I knew I had to act.” Hapu hopped off Bricks. “Who knows what would happen if you stayed longer.”

A disappointed look came over Charlotte's face. “So the Sana we saw was Tapu Fini’s doing.”

Mina bobbed her head. “Ah huh. That’s the power of Tapu Fini.”

“Nanu warned us about that Pokémon earlier,” Looker said. He whipped around his head in panic. “Speaking of which, where is it?”

Hapu’s forehead was squished into a furrowed brow. She clenched one of her fists and shouted, “Tapu Fini, show yourself!”

A moment passed until Tapu Fini came out from behind a tree and appeared in front of everyone. Nanu and Mina stared at them with great focus while everyone else gasped in shock. Hapu stepped forward.

“I’m Hapu, granddaughter of Sofu. I’ve traveled through all of Alola so that I may become stronger and be ready to face you. I challenge you to become the next kahuna of Poni Island!”

Tapu Fini looked down at Hapu, as if regarding her challenge.The deity screamed and raised their arms, a whirlpool swirling around them. The mist around them changed color, now a glittery light pink--Nanu recognized this as Misty Terrain. Hapu grinned in satisfaction.

“All right Emet, you’re up first!” Hapu thrust her arm, and Emet her Golurk stepped forward.

Tapu Fini released a blast of water at Emet, who countered with their ghostly infused fists. The Golurk went for a straight punch, only for Tapu Fini to withdraw themselves inside their shell. Emet did a second punch on the shell to no effect.

“Let’s force them out with Stone Edge!”

Emet grunted and slammed one of their fists on the ground. Several rock pillars popped up and one struck hard at Tapu Fini. That caused them to open their shell and fire high-pressure water at Emet, who launched off like a rocket to avoid the Hydro Pump. Tapu Fini surrounded themselves in a liquid shell and let loose controlled water at Emet, the golem weaving through them easily.

“Oh wow, didn’t think Golurk can be that fast in the air,” Selene said in awe, not tearing her gaze off of the sky.

Mina nodded and hummed. “Little Hapu uses Emet often when she wants to go to the other side of the island quickly. Her Flygon is quite fast, too.”

Nanu pressed his lips hard. Each tapu could control the environment around them: Tapu Koko with electricity, Tapu Lele with psychic energy, Tapu Bulu with plantlife, and Tapu Fini with water. Hapu had guts going against the guardian of Poni Island, especially with the type disadvantage. Her next command pulled him from his thoughts.

“Great! Now, Heavy Slam!”

After dodging a few more of Tapu Fini’s waters in the air, Emet dived down and slammed Tapu Fini into the ground. The water guardian picked themselves slowly, bruises and dirt all over them. The liquid shell that was covering Tapu Fini glowed, and all of the dirt and wounds disappeared from their body.

“Looks like Tapu Fini used Aqua Ring,” Lillie said with concern. That meant Tapu Fini would heal themselves little by little, Nanu mused to himself.

Hapu gave a displeased look. “That’s not good. Okay, Stone Edge once more!”

Emet slammed their fist on the ground and the tall rock pillars burst out once more. Tapu Fini released large amounts of water that blasted each of the rock pillars except for one that poked through them. The water guardian regrouped and fired another Hydro Pump at Emet, soaking and pushing the golem back. Emet retaliated by having their fist surrounded in a ghostly aura and launching it at Tapu Fini. The Automation Pokémon threw several punches and landed each one, but Tapu Fini healed themselves thanks to Aqua Ring and shot out manipulated water that were shaped like hands at them.

“Get away from those!” Hapu urgently called, and Emet launched themselves into the air once more. Her Pokémon was able to keep away from the swirling waters for a while, but eventually Tapu Fini caught Emet’s leg with their powers and slammed them down on the ground like a hammer.

Tapu Fini didn’t wait for Emet to get up as they raised their arms and a raging whirlpool sucked them in. Hapu yelled for her Pokémon to launch themselves out of the whirlpool, and they did by shooting themselves back into the sky. Unfortunately Tapu Fini acted quickly by releasing a blast of pink energy and shocking Emet while they were in the air. Emet stiffened and dropped on the ground, a cloud of dust picking up.

When Emet didn’t get up, Hapu rushed to their side. Everyone but Nanu gasped in shock.

“That’s a technique I’ve never seen before,” Looker said, rubbing his chin.

“Nature’s Madness.” Nanu furrowed his brow. He had experienced that move firsthand. “The tapu used it when they’re very upset. Hapu definitely needs to watch out for that.”

“Emet are you all right?” Hapu asked, and Emet made a low grunt. Hapu sighed in relief. “You fought well there, you deserve some rest. Hapu returned Emet into their pokeball and pulled out another. “Come forth, Maybelle!”

A flash of light poured out, revealing the green-and-blue East Sea variant of Gastrodon. Maybelle squealed and lifted half of her body up.

Tapu Fini immediately fired off a Hydro Pump at Maybelle, who stood still and absorbed all of the water. The tapu glared while Maybelle jerked her head and gave a small cry.

“That’s Gastrodon’s ability, Storm Drain,” Charlotte said, grinning. “I took care of some Shellos and Gastrodon in Aether Paradise.”

“Hapu told me Maybelle’s ability will come in handy when she challenges Tapu Fini.” The smile on Mina’s lips faded. “That won’t stop the tapu, though.”

Hapu gave Maybelle a command, and she shot out purple sludge from her mouth. Tapu Fini weaved around and avoided most of the sludges saved for one that landed on her eyes. Pulsing blue light surrounded them, and the goo disappeared.

“Mud Bomb this time!”

Maybelle opened her mouth and shot out multiple balls of mud at Tapu Fini. The tapu dodged each one and lashed out controlled water at her. Nanu noticed that the water attacks sprouted out from the ground, so he realized the tapu was trying to trap Hapu’s Gastrodon instead of hurting her.

“Freeze each one!”

Whenever Tapu Fini’s manipulated waters got close, Maybelle inhaled and blasted ice-type energy at them. One of Maybelle’s Ice Beams missed, and a liquid thread wrapped around her waist and lifted her into the air. Maybelle made several pleading squeals, but Tapu Fini ignored that and slammed her on the ground. The Gastrodon picked herself up and winced.

“They can still use their powers to hurt Maybelle,” Selene said with a frown. “Should we help her?”

Mina shook her head, wearing the same expression as Selene. “This is little Hapu’s battle she has to face on her own.”

As if hearing their conversation, Hapu narrowed her eyes. She asked Maybelle to use Sludge Wave at Tapu Fini, and the sea slug Pokémon spat out large amounts of goo. Tapu Fini retreated into their shell and spun around, making Maybelle’s sludge bounce off. Nanu and everyone else ducked and scrambled whenever one of the goo clumps headed their way.

“Tapu Fini is getting out of control!” Looker complained as he ducked his head from another sludge.

“That’s the tapu for you.” Nanu also did the same when one sludge almost hit him.

Tapu Fini opened their shell and released shimmering pink energy straight at Hapu’s Pokémon. Maybelle took the hit, screaming in pain. While Maybelle tried to catch her breath, Tapu Fini used their water manipulation powers to grab Maybelle’s waist once more and flung her into a nearby tree. Maybelle collapsed upon impact, and Hapu dashed to her side.

“You fought valiantly, Maybelle,” Hapu said in a low voice as she nuzzled her Pokémon’s cheek. She returned her and turned towards Bricks. “It’s all up to you now, bud.”

Bricks stepped forward, raised his head, and screamed. He stomped three times, kicking dirt behind him. Hapu grinned.

“Double Kick and make it quick!”

Bricks swung around and used his back legs to kick Tapu Fini on the chest twice. Tapu Fini flinched and then fired high pressure water at him. The horse Pokémon was soaked but he shook it off, and an orange aura surrounded him.

“Oh, that’s Mudsdale’s ability, Stamina,” Lillie said, her face lighting up. “I read their defenses get stronger with each hit.”

“Tapu Fini seems to favor long distance attacks, though.” Mina said. “Don’t know how much that’ll help.”

“Okay, now for Heavy Slam and then Earthquake!”

After Tapu Fini blasted another Hydro Pump, Bricks avoided it and launched himself at Tapu Fini. He pinned Tapu Fini down with his front legs while his back legs stomped on the ground and caused the earth to crack. Everyone on the sidelines almost lost their balance when the Earthquake happened. Tapu Fini spat some water onto Bricks’ face and was let go from his grip.

As Tapu Fini and Bricks continued to exchange blows, Nanu found himself reminiscing the time he had battled Tapu Bulu. His Pokémon pulled off a variety of attacks, but Tapu Bulu’s grass and fairy-type powers were too overwhelming for them and were taken down one by one until Persian was left. He was grateful Tapu Bulu stopped there.

“So that’s the power of the tapu,” Charlotte said in a low voice. At that moment, Bricks threw several rocks at Tapu Fini, who countered each one with blasts of water.

Nanu snorted and a crooked smile pulled on his lips. “When I battled Tapu Bulu, they showed no mercy. Tapu Fini is doing the same here.”

“Hapu is gonna do her Z-move now, watch out!” Mina pointed out, and everyone backed away as fast as they could.

Hapu did her pose for the Z-move Tectonic-Rage, in which she had her left fist over her right one, dropped on one knee, and slammed the ground. She and her Pokémon were engulfed in a golden aura, and then Bricks stomped on the ground several times. The earth shook, stronger than the Earthquake Bricks used earlier; Nanu and Lillie fell on the ground, but Looker and Selene picked them up. A chasm opened up, and Bricks leapt up to stomp on Tapu Fini and have them fall within the hole.

Everyone waited with bated breath. A moment passed until a storming whirlpool shot up like Poni Coast Break’s geysers and both Bricks and Tapu Fini burst out. Bricks was still standing but took deep breaths and his legs shook. Tapu Fini took this opportunity to trap Bricks inside another large whirlpool.

Hapu yelled out for Bricks to get out, which he did by pushing through the waters and ramming into Tapu Fini’s chest. Tapu Fini recoiled from that hit while Bricks fell on one knee and barely kept his eyes open. The two gave each other long stares…

...And Tapu Fini smiled and clapped.

“Is this the end of the battle?” Selene asked, furrowing her brow in confusion. Looker wore a similar expression while Lillie and Charlotte tilted their heads.

Before anyone could respond, Tapu Fini approached Hapu and a sparkling crystal appeared between them. Everyone gathered around them just as she grabbed the crystal and opened her palm. A yellow crystal with the Alolan guardian symbol engraved on it. Hapu’s eyes grew wide and she inhaled.

“Does that mean…”

“It is,” Nanu said, and Mina nodded in agreement. He grinned at Hapu and put his hands on his sides. “You’re the new kahuna, kid.”

Hapu’s face brightened up at the news. She wrapped her arms around Bricks’s neck and nuzzled at his cheek.

“We finally did, Bricks.” Hapu held the new z-crystal in front of him, and Bricks made a joyful neigh.

“That’s a cool z-crystal there,” Selene said, beaming. “What is it?”

“That’s the Tapunium-Z. Each kahuna receives that z-crystal as proof of their connection to the tapu.” Hapu faced Nanu. “You have one yourself, don’t you Kahuna Nanu?”

“I do,” Nanu said. “I haven’t used it in a long while, though.”

“Well a hearty congratulations is in order!” Looker said, grinning. Lillie, Selene, and Charlotte also said their congratulations.

“You deserved it, Hapu,” Mina said, and her smile faded. “Oh, looks like the mist is clearing.”

Indeed the mist around them disappeared and the late afternoon light in Poni Wilds came back. Tapu Fini floated to the sky, heading somewhere far away.

“I should head back to my house and let my grandma know,” Hapu said. “You all can come if you want.”

“I’m sure that’ll make her very happy,” Lillie said, her grin widening.

Charlotte poked Nanu’s arm, causing him to look over his shoulder at her.

“Should we go look for Anabel now?” she whispered, and Nanu’s stomach dropped. He was so distracted with Hapu and Tapu Fini’s battle that he completely forgot.

“Yeah, we should.” He cleared his throat and faced Hapu. “You guys go ahead, My colleagues and I are in search of a missing friend. You don’t happen to stumble upon a woman with purple hair and in a dark suit, have you?”

Hapu shook her head. “No I haven’t, sorry. If I do see her, I’ll let her know you’re looking for her.”

Nanu frowned. “Thanks, I appreciate it.” He turned to Looker and Charlotte. “Come on, let’s go.”

He, Charlotte, and Looker headed out. Nanu hoped that Anabel was still fine out there.

xxx

After Grimsley finished talking about being in the Elite Four, he and Father talked about the many trips overseas they had together; his family used to have several villas across different regions, so they would visit those during the summer and winter season. During their conversation, Raz lay down next to Grimsley’s feet while Queen stood still and listened. He wasn’t sure how long he had been with him, but it felt like hours.

“You remember how I was away for a bit when we were in Hoenn? Well, me getting your mother a gift was half of it. What really happened was a Wingull stole my ring and I chased it for almost half an hour! Thank goodness Mr. Brine helped me or else.”

“That actually happened to me several days ago. A Murkrow stole your ring and I chased it down to an abandoned store. I managed to get the ring, but another Pokémon blocked my path and I was forced to battle it. Right, Raz?”

Grimsley gazed down at Raz, who looked up and growled. He chuckled and scratched her chin.

“Well I’m happy to hear that you still have my ring at least,” Father said with a hearty laugh. His smile faded. “You and your mother probably had a hard time adjusting after I died.

Grimsley frowned, his heart sinking. “It was rough for a little while, but then after going to several world poker competitions and joining the Elite Four we’re much better off.”

“I still feel bad for leaving you two.” Father hung his head down and his shoulders slumped. “If I wasn’t so sick, we could’ve been happier together much longer.”

Grimsley’s face fell when he heard that. He moved closer to his father and squeezed his shoulders, offering him a sad smile.

“Don’t blame yourself for that. There were times I wished I could go back and choose a different card, but I’m pleased where I’m at now.” Grimsley shifted his gaze away for a second, his sad smile turning into a genuine one. “I’m proud to be called your son.”

A wide grin stretched across Father’s face. “And as your father, I’m proud of you.”

Grimsley and his father shared another embrace. He was reminded of how warm his body was and how safe he was in his arms. When they let go, the mist surrounding them cleared and Father began to fade in gold glitters. His Pokémon noticed too, Raz getting up and growling while Queen frowned.

“I guess my time’s up,” Father said, his expression softening.

Grimsley frowned at first, but then he smiled back. “I’m glad that we’ve gotten to talk once more.”

“Same here. Maybe we’ll meet like this again someday.”

“I would like that.” He reached for his hand, and his father fully disappeared. His hand on his heart, he gazed up at the sky and whispered, “Goodbye, Father.”

Grimsley’s Pokémon went to comfort him. Raz rubbed at his side and Queen touched his shoulder. A small smile was pulled on his lips.

“Grimsley?” a familiar male voice asked. Grimsley turned around to see Nanu, Looker, and Wicke approaching him. When they stopped, he blinked at them.

“What are you three doing here?”

“We were trapped inside Tapu Fini’s mist for a while and only now were free from that. Did the same happen to you?”

Grimsley’s eyes widened, surprised the three were caught in that mist also. “Yes. I was heading back to the Pokémon Center, and then the mist happened.” A beat. “I met my father.”

Nanu flinched and his shoulders jumped. His colleagues reacted the same way.

“The three of us were also reunited with a lost loved one,” Wicke said with a small smile. “A nice girl named Hapu saved us before we were in the mist too long, though.”

“Hapu?” Upon Wicke saying her name, a realization hit Grimsley. “Wait, did she battle Tapu Fini?”

Looker hummed and nodded. “Indeed, she did! After a tough struggle, Tapu Fini chose her as Kahuna of Poni Island!”

“Really?” Grimsley chuckled and smirked. He folded his arms against his chest. “I guess that gamble of hers paid off.”

Nanu stared at Grimsley, the corner of his mouth twitching. After a brief moment, he sighed and ran his fingers through his hair.

“At least you’re okay in the end. We’ve got a bigger problem, though. Anabel hasn’t returned yet.”

“She hasn’t?” Grimsley asked with a raised brow, and Looker shook his head.

“We’re about to go searching for her now. Since our paths crossed, would you help us?”

Grimsley pressed his lips and his eyes narrowed. After some pondering, he nodded.

“I’ll help. And so will my Pokémon, right?” He turned to them. Raz lifted her head and growled while Queen hummed and bobbed her head.

“Good,” Nanu said. “Come on, we should try to find her before dark.”

Everyone did just that, Grimsley and his Pokémon following behind. His reunion with his father was on his mind, but his smile faded. He needed to focus on finding Nanu’s friend.

Author’s Notes

Tapu Fini's mist was inspired by the Sun/Moon anime episode Memories in the Mist, regarded by many as one of the most heartfelt episodes in the whole series. While there are similar beats, I make Nanu and Grimsley's versions of being under Tapu Fini's mist still their own thing.

Thanks to bobandbill for betaing as always. Something came up so there might be another delay, but will try to get the next chapter in next month. See you then!

We open with more food, it seems! That wasn’t a critique, by the way; I think it’s nice – and a great way of situating things in the rhythm of the day. These people have lives, routines. Supernatural catastrophes and region-wide conspiracies fit into or impinge upon these. :>


Huh, I see! I guess I was more thinking through why Plumeria would feel comfortable talking to him, but yeah. I can understand why you’d have misgivings about focusing on him right now – though I think what I said last time still stands. He's sort of ... given up, you know? Re. Plumeria – I think it’s about time I admitted I never played the postgame in Gen VII. :V I generally don’t unless there’s like, a new place to go to and walk around and have adventures; I’m not one for rechallenging the Elite Four. But I looked up the conversation you’re referring to and I think this is a great expansion on that canon line of dialogue!

But I’m really burying the lede here. The living and the dead! I wasn’t expecting that, but that’s because I have paid shamefully little attention to the tapus’ pokédex entries, I guess. Fili’s powers are very ripe for narrative development, especially in a story where characters live in the shadow of their deceased loved ones. Grimsley’s loss of his father was a big part of the family’s falling into debt, iirc, and of course Nanu himself has been thinking – and dreaming – of Sana’s death ever since it happened.

I liked the parallel between them, too. Both are dealing with a certain amount of baggage, sure, but Grimsley’s journey is the tamer one, without the action or the sense of danger; Nanu’s is darker and wilder and more directly gives him a chance to achieve some sense of closure. (Both of them get sucked in fast, though; Grimsley doesn’t want to leave, and Nanu quickly stops listening to his sense of danger because, you know how could he possibly resist the chance to finally apologise to Sana?) It’s a lot like the contrast between their stories in general – the tourist who becomes very fond of the place he’s visiting versus the resident for whom all of this is real life and high-stakes.

I really enjoyed this battle, as well. I think apart from the cool visuals – and they are cool, with a mecha flying around with jump jets and giant spooky water hands – what really made it for me was that we’re in Nanu’s POV here, and that means we’re watching this fight, rather than being in it. And we’re watching it in the company of a group of very highly skilled trainers who constantly offer critique and analysis of the situation, so the whole thing has the feel of being in the commentator’s box, listening to all the pundits give their opinions and stuff. Good stuff.

Plus like, I love how vicious Fini is. They feel wild, alien, kinda childish. You can’t quite get a handle on their thoughts and motivations, beyond the usual desire of a pokémon to test a person’s strength; they have a very other feel to them.

Also, really quickly before I hit post – I just have to say, I’m extremely here for that Sana/Charlotte interaction. Like, I’m so the target audience for flirting with a ghostly lover, haha. :V

As always, I am definitely looking forward to more! :>

For Nanu, all drama gives way to annoyance, huh. The instant the prospect of appearing in public in his capacity as kahuna appears, his creeping guilt and dread gives away to a kinda knee-jerk ughhhh reaction to the whole thing. Though, to be fair, I think having to dress up as a pokémon and dance in public would be enough to sour me on the experience too. :V Anyway, I like the expansion of the tapu’s place in the ritual life of the islands here; it makes a lot of sense (this is definitely the kind of occasion you’d mark!), and I’m looking forward to seeing more of it in the next chapter.

We also get some neat kahuna interactions here, which is rather nice – we don’t get a lot of those in-game, huh. It’s neat to see them all in one place, chatting. And chatting each other up, lol. Was not expecting Olivia to pounce like that. Extremely forward of her. Maybe a tad too forward, even. Idk, I feel like this isn’t a thing you’d say to a total stranger while in front of your work colleagues. Possibly this is an aspect of her characterisation from the anime or something that I’m not familiar with?

And! Hell yeah to agency for Anabel. :> I love this a lot; the games have people treat her like glass, everyone refusing to tell her the truth and constantly worrying about her health. I think they even have her say she doesn’t have pokémon any more, unless I’m misremembering? Which like, even if they didn’t fall with her, it never struck me as plausible that she wouldn’t get more; it seems like having pokémon in her life would be important to her. She’s a world-class trainer after all, and in this telling she has a fierce pride in her skill and person, and a drive to do things right. It’s a great divergence from canon, and I think it bodes very well for her future.

Finally:

Nice. That’s all. :V

Replies:


Twenty-Six
Assurance (Part Two)

Shortly after Nanu and his friends had left, it was time for the coronation. Grimsley moved in pace with Akoni, Hala, and Olivia while the children followed behind. The two kahunas and seafolk chief were having a conversation, which he wasn’t paying attention to.

It wasn’t hard for him to notice that there were some tensions going on with the Interpol group. Nanu coming back late a couple of nights ago and Anabel missing were signs of that. A part of him was curious about what went on between them, but Grimsley decided it was none of his business.

The group journeyed through the Poni Break Coast, the geysers sprouting out the water and stream every so often. Once they made it to the Ruins of Life, there was no pool of water there. Mina and Eli stood in front of the entrance.

“Alola, alola!” Mina greeted and did the Alolan rainbow sign as Hala did earlier. “Glad you guys can make it to the ceremony!” She paused, her smile disappearing. “Where’s old man Nanu?”

“He had to take care of something last minute,” Grimsley said.

“Oh?” Mina tilted her head and blinked. Her smile returned. “His friend just returned, right?”

Grimsley hummed. “Seems the two have a lot of talking to do.”

“Ah. Well, that’s more important, I guess. Come on, we shouldn’t keep little Hapu waiting!”

Everyone followed Mina and Eli inside the temple. While they moved from one room to the next, Grimsley looked over his shoulder to see Hala and Eli talking.

“It’s been a long while, Hala. Two years, has it?”

“Mhmm. I’m unable to visit due to being the kahuna and all. I heard your granddaughter traveled all over Alola to prepare herself for this.”

“She has, and I’m very proud of her.”

“Haha, no doubt you do!”

Their conversation ended once everyone made it to the second room. Hapu was on top of the altar, donning a short-sleeved blue and white dress. She wore a headdress shaped like Tapu Fini’s fins, and her hair was in a straight-wavy style this time. A large pendant was hung on her neck and another smaller one on her forehead. Grimsley thought she looked cute like that. While everyone else stopped in the middle, Eli made a few more steps forward and turned around.

“Welcome everyone to the crowning of our new Kahuna of Poni Island,” she said aloud with her arms spread wide. “Today we bare witness to an Alolan tradition that has been passed down through generations. And now, the ancient dance of the kahunas.”

As Eli joined back with the others, Hapu took a deep breath and started her dance. Her bare footsteps hit the wooden platform like drums, and her claps echoed through the walls. Everyone kept silent and watched as she continued her dance. Grimsley glanced over his shoulder to see Hala and Olivia grinning, as if they were reminiscing.

It wasn’t long until Tapu Fini appeared.

The guardian deity emerged from a pool of water from the back of the room and rose over the altar. They joined in with Hapu, showering her with sparkling dust. Grimsley held his breath as he witnessed this ancient tradition.

After a moment, both Hapu and Tapu Fini stopped. The new kahuna unwrapped the Z-Ring from her wrist and held it to Tapu Fini.

“Bestow upon me the role of watching over Poni Island and the waters surrounding it.”

Still holding her Z-Ring, Hapu closed her eyes as Tapu Fini twirled around her. The deity then stopped in front of her, sprinkled the Z-Ring with glittering dust, and took it by lifting it into the air. A small pool of water swirled around the bracelet, and then it returned back on Hapu’s palms. The new kahuna smiled and thanked them for blessing her Z-Ring.

When the dance was done everyone clapped, though Grimsley didn’t smile. The ceremony was nice, but seeing Tapu Fini ran chills down his spine. Hapu went down the stairs, joining with the others.

“All right, now there’s one last thing that Hapu needs to do to complete the ceremony, and it’s to use the Tapuinum-Z,” Hala said.

“Tapuinum-Z?” Grimsley asked, blinking.

“Each kahuna gets a special z-crystal called the Tapuinum-Z,” Hapu said. She pulled out a small tan crystal with the symbol of the tapu. “It’s a way to show a bond between the kahuna and tapu.”

“Oh yeah, Lillie and I saw Tapu Fini giving it to you after that battle,” Selene said. “Looks so cool.”

“Really? I take it there’s a special Z-Move for that?”

“Yup, and I’ll be performing it right now!”

“Okay folks, let’s head outside now so Hapu can do that Z-Move,” Mina said, and everyone followed her out of the altar.

xxx

Grimsley assumed that Hapu needed to be outside to perform her final act because the Ruins of Life didn’t have enough space for that. He was curious how the Z-Move looked, and how it went Nanu did it. Either way, doing it outside was better than accidentally setting a sacred location on fire.

Once outside, Hapu and Tapu Fini stood in the middle of the open space while everyone else stayed on the sidelines. She slipped the Tapinium-Z crystal inside her bracelet and faced Tapu Fini.

“I’m ready,” Hapu said, her face showing firm conviction. Tapu Fini hummed and nodded. As she chanted her next words,, her bracelet lit up. “Oh Guardian of Alola, lend me your strength to help watch over everyone here!”

She struck her z-pose by having her fingers form a heart and lifting one of her legs up, which Grimsley recognized as the same pose Mina did when they battled a few days ago. A golden aura engulfed them both, and the earth shook.

Grimsley and several others wobbled and almost lost their balance. A big chasm opened, rocks and dust flying. Two large hands reached out, and then a giant muscular being climbed out of the hole and stood up. It had no head until Tapu Fini floated up, closed their shell, and attached themself onto the giant.

“So that’s the Guardian of Alola I heard so much about,” Hau said in awe. He and everyone else were unable to tear their gazes off from it.

Hapu finished off the Z-Move by lifting her fist and slamming it on her palm like a hammer. The Guardian of Alola did the same, slamming one fist onto the chasm and making it wider. Another cloud of dust popped up, which caused Grimsley and the others to cough. Tapu Fini, as the giant being, lifted their head, punched their chest with their fist, and cried out their name to the heavens. After that, the golden being disappeared and Tapu Fini turned back to normal. Exhausted, Hapu fell on her knees and her body slumped. Her grandmother rushed to help pick her up.

“We now officially have our new kahuna!” Akoni declared with a grin. Selene and Hau cheered while everyone else clapped.

“Your grandfather would be very proud,” Eli said, smiling down at her and squeezing her hand.

“I believe so too, Grandma,” Hapu said and grinned back.

Grimsley pressed his lips and crossed his arms. Guardian of Alola was a Z-Move unlike any other. The tapus were just as powerful as the legendary Pokémon of other regions, if not more so. Distracted by his thoughts, he didn’t notice Tapu Fini was in front of him until they let out a soft, “Tapuuu.” That made him flinch and drew his head back.

“Urgh, what do you want?” he asked.

Tapu Fini responded by repeating “tapu” several more times. Unable to understand, Grimsley raised a brow at them.

“I think Tapu Fini’s apologizing for what happened yesterday,” Hapu said.

“Huh?” Grimsley’s eyes grew wide when he realized Hapu was talking about Tapu Fini’s special powers and his father visiting from the afterlife. He chuckled. “I’m actually glad to have that opportunity to meet my father one last time. Thank you.”

Tapu Fini gave out a pleased hum and floated back to Hapu’s side. Selene and Hau stared at him.

“Meet your father one last time?” Selene asked. “Does that mean you were in Tapu Fini’s mist yesterday?”

Grimsley’s heart jumped in his throat. Before he could respond, Eli spoke first.

“Tapu Fini’s fog was deep yesterday, so it’s not surprising that some folks got caught in it. It’s good then that my granddaughter saved you there.”

Unsure how to react to that, Grimsley cleared his throat and gave an awkward smile. “Yes, I’m glad of that.”

“Say, Grimsley, are you up for a Pokémon battle?” Olivia asked as she approached him. “Kahili and Molayne told me how they battled you, and that made me want to see how powerful you are.”

“Oh, I’m that inspiring, hm?” Grimsley rubbed his chin, considering Olivia’s offer a moment. “Sure, no harm in that.”

Olivia flashed him a grin and put her hands on her hips. “Great! I think you’ll like my Pokémon. They’re as tough as they come.”

After eavesdropping on their conversation, Tapu Fini let out an agitated cry and glared at them. Grimsley swallowed hard, their stare piercing through his heart.

“Tapu Fini says to have the battle elsewhere,” Hapu said. “They did enough damage when they were doing Guardian of Alola.”

“I totally get it. Wouldn’t want to cause trouble here.” Olivia faced back at Grimsley. “Want to do our battle outside the Pokémon Center, instead?”

“Sounds good to me,” Grimsley said.

“An Elite Four trainer and kahuna having a battle?” Hau jumped and raised his fist in the air. “This is gonna be great!”

Selene beamed. “Also can’t wait to eat! I’m starving!”

With the coronation ceremony finally over, everyone headed back to the Seafolk Village Pokémon Center. Smiling a little, Grimsley actually looked forward to his battle with Olivia.

xxx

As soon as Grimsley and the group made it back outside of the Pokémon Center, he and Olivia immediately started their battle. He sent out Queen up against Olivia’s Tyrantrum, a Pokémon that was extinct thousands of years ago. Even though Grimsley was aware of advanced technology that could revive fossilized Pokémon, seeing her with one was a pleasant surprise. She had nicknamed the Tyrantum Rexy.

Queen was able to cut through Rexy’s rough skin with her blades and avoid the hurl of rocks being thrown at her. The Tyranrtum was faster than Grimsley had expected as he managed to bite through Queen’s armor a few times earlier. Dragon-type Pokémon were never easy to take down, but Grimsley learned to overcome that from his battles with Iris and Drayden.

Olivia ordered Rexy to use Dragon Claw, so Grimsley had Queen counter that with X-Scissor. Both Pokémon charged at each other with claws and blades forming a green light. Everyone in the audience watched with anticipation, their gazes following their every movement.
After exchanging several blows, Rexy and Queen stopped to catch their breaths and glare at each other.

“All right, Rexy, are you ready for our Z-Move?” Olivia asked, and Rexy responded with a roar. She grinned, and the Z-Ring on her wrist glowed. “Great, then let’s do this! Devastating Drake!”

She did her pose by crossing her arms together, having them shaped like large jaws, and thrusting her hands forward. A purple aura bathed both Olivia and Rexy, and an orb formed in front of the Tyrantrum.

Grimsley grunted, pursing his lips. He and Queen immediately did their pose for Savage Spin Out, and a golden light surrounded them.

Rexy fired off the orb, which then changed into the shape of a dragon flying at fast speed. Queen shot out a string of white silk at the dragon, but it cut through that and slammed into her. An explosion of purple flames occurred, and after the smoke disappeared Queen dropped to one knee, barely opening her eyes. Rexy’s pants had gotten deeper.

Due to the effects of the Z-Move, Grimsley took deep breaths. Olivia grinned with no signs of exhaustion on her face. She likely had done the pose several times before.

“Looks like our Pokémon are exhausted,” she said. ”I think that’s enough.”

“I agree.” Grimsley approached Olivia, and they shook hands. Their Pokémon joined them. “That was a good battle. No wonder Professor Kukui chose you as one of the best Alola trainers.”

“I can see why you’re an Elite Four trainer myself.” Olivia scratched Rexy’s belly, which the Pokémon responded with a pleased grunt. “You know how to get through Rexy’s rough skin.”

Grimsley chuckled and touched Queen’s shoulder. “Queen’s blades are sharp enough to cut through even the toughest boulders. I’m rather impressed with that Z-Move of yours.”

“Me too!” Hau said cheerfully. “This is the first time I’ve seen it.”

“I mostly save Rexy for the Final Grand Trials. You might see him again in the Pokémon League,” Olivia said with a wink.

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” When he heard that, Grimsley turned around to see Nanu and his friends joining with the crowd. Olivia glared at Nanu.

“Of course! Why wouldn't it be?”

“I mean, it’s a Tyrantrum. They’re not your typical cuddly Pokémon.”

“True, but Rexy is a sweetheart that wouldn’t even hurt a bug Pokémon. Right, big boy?” Olivia gazed up at him, grinning. As if understanding her, Rexy lowered his head down and let Olivia scratch his cheeks.

“He does look cuddly!” Selene said, beaming. Grimsley gave her a blank stare, not expecting her to say that.

Olivia gave her a satisfied grin and returned Rexy. “See, even Selene agrees!”

“Right,” Nanu said in a drawled out voice and rolled his eyes. He then said to Olivia and Hala, “I need to speak with you two in private.”

Grimsley watched as the three kahunas moved away from the crowd and towards the edge of the cliff. He turned around to see everyone else already dispersed into their own groups. The children, Akoni, and Mina were next to the table where the food was. Anabel and Looker grabbed themselves a drink and talked to one another. Wicke was alone, gazing at the Interpol agents. He went up to her.

“I take it the talk with you guys went fine?” Grimsley asked, and Wicke smiled.

“You can say that. Anabel plans to make some changes in Interpol and we’ll be helping her with that.”

“Is that so? Well, I wish you all luck on that.”

“Thank you so much. We’re going to need it!”

With a grunt and a nod, Grimsley wondered if Wicke and her friends would be able to accomplish that. That would be as if he wanted to change how the Pokémon League functioned. He then recalled that she and Nanu were once co-workers and he was curious about that.

“You and Nanu used to work together. What was that like?”

Wicke flinched and pressed her lips in a fine line. She gazed up at the sky with her finger tapping her chin.

“It was...interesting. He was blunt, but cared deeply for us. I couldn’t ask for a better superior.”

“Huh, I see.” Grimsley tried to imagine him being an Interpol agent. He could see him acting similarly to Anabel. “Nanu told me about how the Aether Foundation has been doing their research on the Ultra Wormholes.”

Wicke’s eyes blinked rapidly, and then she frowned.

“They are. As you can tell from Lillie and Selene’s story, it’s a big problem now. All we can hope for now is them bringing that legendary Pokémon and saving Madame Lusamine.”

Grimsley looked away, his finger rubbing the back of his ear. He was conflicted about having the weight of the world on those girls’ shoulders. When Hilda had saved Unova and then Nate two years after, they went from excited trainers with potential to ones that lost their innocence. He hoped that wouldn’t be the same for Lilie and Selene.

Xxx

Nanu brought Olivia and Hala at the edge of the cliff, the ocean waves raging down below. He glanced at the crowd enjoying the festivities before facing back at his fellow kahunas.

“The Aether Foundation’s president had stolen the Moon Flute from Lake of the Moone. And right now she’s gone missing,” he said. Olivia and Hala let out stunned gasps.

“Really?” Hala asked. “How do you know?

“Lillie and Selene went to Aether Paradise earlier. They’re planning to use the flutes to summon the legendary Pokémon to bring her back.”

Olivia raised a brow. “Is that a good idea? Will they get help at least?”

“Mina and Hapu will take them to Vast Poni Canyon. My friends from Interpol will also help.”

Both kahunas gave him apprehensive looks. After a moment, Olivia sighed with her shoulders slumped.

“It’s good that they won’t be alone then,” she said. “I just hope they’re ready for the task.”

Nanu grunted in agreement and fixed his gaze at Lillie and Selene within the crowd. They were talking with Hau, Captain Akoni, and Mina, eating and laughing together. The faith of Alola in the hands of two children. He frowned at that thought as he would rather they live out normal lives than go through this.

“You’re also worried about them, huh Nanu?” Hala asked with a smile, causing Nanu to flinch.

“Huh? What makes you think that?”

“The way you’re gazing at the girls there, I haven’t seen that from you in a long time.”

Nanu mentally slapped himself for making himself look vulnerable there.

“I just think they should enjoy just being kids, you know? They don’t need such pressure this early in their lives.”

“I think so too,” Olivia said with a sympathetic smile. ‘Can’t help but admire their spirit, though.”

Nanu snorted. “Maybe a little too much spirit.”

Hala laughed, putting his hands on his stomach. “Why don’t we go to eat and join with the others?”

“Good idea,” Olivia said. “I’m actually kinda starving now!”

“Sure. Not exactly hungry yet, but I’m here, so might as well.” Nanu followed Olivia and Hala behind as they moved to join in with the others.

xxx

The festivities continued for the rest of the evening. Several more people joined in, which Grimsley assumed to be residents of the village. After his conversation with Wicke, he went to a table with Selene, Hau, and Mina. He listened as Selene told him and Hau what happened during Hapu's battle with Tapu Fini. From what the girl described, Tapu Fini's battle prowess wasn't to be underestimated. Hau then asked if they could play a game, which led Grimsley to propose an idea.

"I have some cards that we can play with. Be careful though, they're expensive and hard to come by."

For the next half hour, they played a kids-friendly version of blackjack, basically with no monetary bets, and slapjack. The latter Hau and Selene were the last two standing as they kept piling their cards together on the table until a jack card was turned. Both of them slapped it at the same time, Hau being the faster one.

"I slapped that jack card first, so I won!" Hau declared with a wide grin on his face.

"Nah-ah! I slapped it first!" Selene narrowed her eyes and faced Grimsley. "Who slapped it first, Grimsley?"

"Hau slapped it first just by a hair," Grimsley said, a smirk forming on his lips.

"Hah!" A smug expression crossed Hau's face. "See, I told you!"

Selene pouted and crossed her arms. "Fine, I'll let you have the win. But I'll win next time!"

Mina chuckled. "At least you did well at blackjack."

A proud grin formed on Selene's lips. "That's true! Maybe I'll be good at the real thing, too."

Furrowing his brow at her, Grimsley said, "I would wait until a few more years before attempting to do that seriously."

"Are you actually teaching kids how to gamble?" Nanu asked as he approached the group. He pressed his lips and had both hands on his sides.

"I'm not," Grimsley said, frowning. "We were only playing a couple of card games. No wagers whatsoever."

"Unlike some regions, gambling isn't legal here. I could say your coin-tossing tendencies are borderline to that."

Grimsley narrowed his eyes at him at first, and then he snorted. "Well, I would be bored otherwise."

Nanu glared at him, the corner of his mouth twitching. "Just don't have me catch you betting for real or else."

That caused Grimsley to flinch and laugh sheepishly. Behind him, Mina, Hau, and Selene gave him funny looks. He opened his mouth to respond but then stopped when Eli spoke.

"Thank you everyone for joining in to celebrate Hapu's coronation as the kahuna of Poni Island." Eli gazed down at Hapu, who was beside her. "This means a lot to both of us."

"It's about time that this island has a new kahuna," Akoni said with a grin. He cleared his throat and raised his plastic cup up. "A toast: may Tapu Fini watch and guide my granddaughter to be a wise and fair kahuna."

Everyone including Grimsley raised their own cups with several people cheering, "Here, here." Grimsley gulped his punch, which was warm and sticky inside his throat.

"We have one last thing we want to show you guys," Mina said. "All four kahunas will perform Z-Moves with their Pokémon!"

The majority of the crowd also cheered upon hearing that. Grimsley glanced at Nanu, who winced.

"Not a fan of crowds, eh?" Grimsley asked with a smirk.

"That much is obvious, isn't it?" Nanu sighed and shook his head. "Let's get this over with."

Nanu stood in front of the crowd along with Olivia, Hala, and Hapu. Nanu sent out his Persian, Hapu her Golurk, Hala his Hariyama, and Olivia a wolf-like creature that looked to be similar to Selene's Lycanroc but with red fur and standing on two legs.

"Is Olivia's Pokémon there a Lycanroc?" he asked Selene in a whisper.

"Ah huh. Lycanroc has three forms. Olivia's is the Midnight form and is very strong. My own Lycanroc barely was able to beat him."

"I recall Lillie mentioning that. He does look menacing."

Already all four kahunas began their Z-Pose. Nanu did this for the Dark-type, Hapu the Ghost-type, and Olivia Lycanroc's special Z-Move Splintered Stormshards. Hala's Z-Pose had him and his Pokémon make two big steps and thrust their arms several times.

Olivia's Lycanroc howled and several shards of rock flew up, which were pointing at Hariyama. That was similar to when Selene's Lycanroc did the Z-Move several days ago. As the shards flew straight at Hariyama, the heavy-set fighting type punched every one of them into smaller pieces, making the dust glittered in the air.

After Persian threw her head up and growled, a black hole appeared. Golurk made several shadows and tendrils appear that then eventually got sucked inside the black hole, which caused an explosion to occur. All four z-moves combined together created a fireworks display.

Everyone looked up in awe at the spectacle and clapped. Grimsley couldn't tear his gaze off the sky as he was being reminded of the Minior shower back outside the Hokulani Observatory. He glanced around to see Hau excitedly pointing the fireworks with Mina, Lillie and Selene holding hands, and Nanu's Interpol friends besides one another. Once the fireworks died down, the crowd cheered at the kahunas and their Pokémon.

"That was great, huh?" Mina asked, grinning.

"It was impressive, I must say."

"Glad to hear! Now I'm all pumped up to create several drawings tonight."

"I'm not surprised to hear that." Grimsley looked up at the sky once more, thinking his last night in Poni Island ended with a literal bang.

xxx

The next morning while he and Nanu were having breakfast, the kahuna told him that they had been in Poni Island long enough and that it was time for them to leave. After eating and packing up their things, they went to the port and met up with everyone except Akoni, Hapu, and Eli there.

“You sure you don’t want to stay and help us summon the legendary Pokémon, Hau?” Selene asked him, who shook his head.

“I still don’t think I’m strong enough for that yet. I think you and Lillie will be able to pull it off, though!”

“We’ll do our very best,” Lillie said, smiling.

Hala approached Nanu and put his hand on his shoulder. He said in a low voice, “If Olivia and I see any other threats, we’ll let you know.”

“I appreciate it.”

Hala offered him a small nod. He turned back to Hau and they held hands. They climbed aboard the ferry, and everyone waved goodbye to them as it set off. Grimsley felt a tap on his shoulder and looked over to see Olivia grinning at him.

“I would love another battle with you sometime.”

Grimsley blinked at first and then smiled. “Depends if I come to visit Alola again. But yes, I wouldn’t mind that, too.”

He and Olivia shook hands. After that, she said goodbye to everyone and hopped on top of the Charizard used as her PokéRide. They took off into the skies.

“We’ll be heading back to Aether Paradise later today and discuss with Gladion our next plan of action,” Anabel said.

“If you guys need help, don’t hesitate to contact me,” Nanu said.

“We shall do that if that is the case,” Looker said. Behind him, Charlotte and Anabel nodded in agreement.

Approaching Mina, Grimsley told her, “I want to thank you again for helping me with mastering Z-Moves.”

“No problem at all! Hope you two visit Poni Island again!” she said with an easy-going smile.

Grimsley responded with a grunt. He and Nanu exchanged small nods, and they headed towards their boat. Before coming inside, he turned to see Mina, the girls, and the Interpol agents waving and saying their goodbyes. He gazed at Poni Island one last time before joining with Nanu inside the boat.

Author’s Note:

So that ends the Poni Island arc and now we're heading towards the final arc, the Ultra Beast invasion arc. I'll be having a short hiatus as my backlog is shrinking and focusing on other projects. Hopefully I'll have the last arc ready to post by December or sometime after that. See ya!

Oh, like that’s ever stopped you before, Grimsley. :P

Anyway! This is a neat ceremony; it’s brief and to the point, which feels very appropriate – the tapus are known for being impatient and fickle, so I can totally imagine the Alolans deciding to keep the kahuna confirmation ceremonies nice and brisk, just in case they got bored and ran off. :V I’d never actually heard of/seen the tapu’s Z-move before, so that was a neat thing to learn about. Rather cool to summon and pilot a giant magic mech with a literal godhead.

I do also very much enjoy how Hau’s like “I want to see a cool battle!” and Selene’s like “And I want food!” That’s just fun. It’s a pretty brief fight, all told, but an interesting one; I feel like I don’t see a lot of draws in fic, because of course it’s not really something that can happen in-game. Both combatants resist what’s being thrown at them, and I guess that’s part of why they end up stalemated like that. It’s certainly a showy one, with the two Z-moves exploding through one another like that.

I appreciated Grimsley’s little ‘hmmm I don’t know how I feel about kid trainers having to save the world’ moment, too. The Unova elite four were closer than most to the disaster that happened in their game; it makes sense that it’d occur to him to worry for these kids, seeing so much of what happened with Nate and Hilda at first hand. Nanu feels something like it too, huh. Must be losing his touch if Hala can tell. :P

Also, I couldn’t help but think that Grimsley’s very much the cool, permissive uncle at that celebration, huh – the pro gambler who shows you how to play cards and who you’re convinced would teach you how to make money at gambling if you could only catch him at a good time and make him forget he’s talking to kids.

Still, it’s all capped off with a really nice pyrotechnical display! I enjoy moves being used for non-combat uses, and given that they’re so flashy, it makes sense that they’d be used for purposes like these. A fittingly explosive end to the arc; things are all happy and charming on the surface, but we’ve got hints of real problems to come, with the trip to Ultra Space after Lusamine very much in the offing. Hope you get what you want from the break, and I’m definitely looking forward to more, whenever it comes!