The call starts with a crackle as each region's Champion appears on-screen, their expressions tense. Some are in their training arenas, others in their personal quarters, but all share a common concern - the recent criminal uprisings in the regions. Steven Stone, calm yet stern, is the first to speak.

"Y/n! I'm glad you could come. Cynthia, Red,
Diantha, Leon,... Good, good! Hi everyone!"
You smile and say hi to your colleagues, waving to them on your computer screen. Though you're barely able to contain your excitement, you manage to stay quiet.

"I see you've all made it to our Bronzoom call, that's awesome! Let me get right to the point, I can speak from my own experience that being a Champion takes up a lot of your time... First of all, thank you all for joining on such short notice," Steven begins, his gaze scanning the group. "As you know, Hoenn is facing renewed activity from both Team Magma and Team Aqua. It seems they've recovered from their past defeats, and the fact they both reappeared around the same time is strange. Of course, one could have provoked the other, but there is also reason to believe this could be coordinated."

A brief silence follows, the weight of his words sinking in. Cynthia, her arms crossed in thought, nods slightly before she continues, her voice smooth yet commanding.

"It's no different in Sinnoh. Team Galactic has been more aggressive in their search for certain scientific materials. I've encountered several grunts these past few weeks... none of them are speaking. Whatever they're after, I don't think it's something unimportant."

Leon leans back in his chair, his posture relaxed, though the seriousness in his eyes betrays his usual laid-back demeanor. "Galar's been calm, but we can't stay on the sidelines. Team Yell has never been a threat to the region, but we've got to stay vigilant for any unusual activity. If these teams are working together somehow, we've got to be ready for anything. I'll be doing extra patrols across the Wild Area, along the beaches, and Raihan's already keeping an eye on Hammerlocke."

Steven taps a file on his desk, scanning the notes, his expression focused. "I'll need more than just vigilance. Diantha, how are things in Kalos?"

Diantha tilts her head slightly, her usual grace muted by the situation.
"Disturbing. I didn't tell the journalists about this, but there are new criminal elements rising in Kalos, calling themselves the 'Remnants'. These old Team Flare grunts claim to follow Lysandre's vision, but their methods are perhaps even more reckless. So far they've been targeting key historical sites, places connected to Kalos' ancient Pokémon, stealing Trainers' Pokémon and causing general havoc."

Iris frowns, leaning forward. "So we're dealing with multiple regions being provoked at once. Do you think someone's pulling the strings from behind the scenes? A new leader trying to take advantage of all these factions?"

Lance, his cape draped dramatically as always, crosses his arms, his deep voice adding gravity to the situation. "It's a coordinated strike, no doubt. We've dealt with individual teams before, but this... It's different. If they're working together, they could become a threat on a global scale."

Steven's voice sharpens, taking control once again. "That's exactly why we can't let our guard down. I'll keep you updated on Hoenn's situation, but I need all of you to start preparing your regions as if this is going to spread. This isn't just about battling their Pokémon, it's about stopping them before they destabilise everything we've worked to protect."

You lean forwards in your chair, recognising the potential threat to your own region. Alola may be peaceful, but you know firsthand the power and mystery surrounding its Legendary Pokémon, not to mention the danger of the Ultra Beasts. Clearing your throat, you speak up.

"Alola's been relatively peaceful, I only have one small incident with Team Skull to report, they were causing some mayhem in Po Town. But we've got our own share of Legendary Pokémon as well as big cities that these groups might target. I'll get in touch with the Kahunas and set up a watch at the Tapus' ruins. If these criminals think they can cause trouble in Alola unnoticed, they've got another thing coming."

Steven gives a nod of approval. "Good thinking. With Alola's unique connection to its extraterrestrial Pokémon, you're right to stay on high alert. Keep us informed of any developments."

Leon grins at you.
"I'd expect nothing less from the Champion of Alola. Keep those pretty beaches safe, yeah?"

You smirk in response, but your mind is already turning to the preparations you'll need to make.

Cynthia, thoughtful as ever, adds to the conversation.
"We should pool our resources - intelligence, battlegrounds, and defensive tactics. We've never faced something like this before. I'll look into more ancient texts from Sinnoh; there may be something we've missed."

Diantha nods in agreement.
"I'll coordinate with the Kalos League and keep an eye on these 'Remnants'. But we need a plan if they're working together. One wrong move, and we could be facing a crisis on all fronts."

The Champions share a brief, solemn glance across their screens. Steven leans back, his expression resolute.
"Stay vigilant. Prepare your teams and your regions as a precaution. We're not sure yet if this is going to develop into something serious, but we can't ignore the signs. If there's more to this, we'll be ready. For now, keep gathering information and keep each other updated. Until then, proceed with caution."

With that, the screen goes dark. You sit back in your chair, mulling over the conversation. There's no guarantee that these incidents are connected, but the Champions' instinct to be prepared is something you can't ignore. You know you'll need to talk to the Kahunas and ensure Alola stays vigilant, just in case.

The silence in the room now feels heavier than before. You stand up and stretch, trying to shake off the thoughts. Your Pokémon are resting in their beds, but you know they can sense your unease. You decide to softly wake up your starter, your loyal partner since the beginning, who sleeps next to your own bed.

"Hey, you," you say quietly, patting its head. "Tomorrow's a big day, huh? Hau's really pushing me to battle... I know it's been a while. I just don't know if I'm ready for that kind of spotlight yet."

Primarina looks up at you, its eyes full of understanding. It's always known how you feel, even when you try to hide it. You smile softly and sit down on the floor beside it, leaning back against the bed.

"And that call..." you continue, absentmindedly scratching behind its ears. "It's crazy how everything's always so peaceful here, yet danger could be around the corner everywhere else. Do you think we'll be ready if it comes to Alola? I mean... we've been through a lot together, but this feels different somehow."

It lets out a small cry, nudging you with its nose as if to say, "We've got this."

You chuckle. "Yeah, you're right. But Hau's battle tomorrow... I don't know. What if I'm not the Champion I used to be? What if I've lost my edge?"

A flicker of doubt crosses your mind, but your Pokémon's unwavering gaze reminds you of everything you've overcome. You've always faced your challenges head-on, with your team by your side.

After heading back from the beach, Hau had gone to buy some more malasadas, as his belly somehow could fit even more sweets than he had already eaten, and he had even given you some. Reaching for the bag your friend had left earlier, you pull out the box of delicious treats.

"Guess I should eat these before they get cold, huh?" You offer one to Primarina, who eagerly accepts it, and take a bite yourself. The warm, sweet flavour fills your mouth, momentarily distracting you from the day's heavy thoughts.

Later, you settle on the couch, flipping through channels on the TV until you find Natuto, the animated series you've been hooked on for a while. The familiar characters and action-packed battles pull you in, helping you unwind. You chuckle a little, thinking about how Natuto's journey mirrors your own in some ways: facing impossible odds, but never giving up.

As the episode ends and the night grows quieter, you glance at your Primarina, who has already curled up beside you on her bed, half-asleep.

"Tomorrow, I'll make a decision about that battle with Hau and talk to the Kahunas. But for now, all I want is a good night's rest."

With that thought, you head to bed, pulling the covers over yourself. The ocean breeze filters in through the window, and as you close your eyes, your mind drifts back to the faraway regions, the call you had earlier... and to Lillie, somewhere out there..

12 hours later...

The delicious smell of Poke fills the room as you take the fish out of the pan. Humming, you put some Pokémon food in the 6 bowls for your team and sit down at the table. However, before you can even get a bite in, the door slams open with a loud BANG.

"Alolaaa, cousin! You ready for the grand fight, oh yeah?!" Professor Kukui asks excitedly, walking into the kitchen no questions asked.

You grin.
"Good afternoon to you too, Professor! I've got to say, I've been living here now for what, six years? After all those years I'm still not used to people bursting into the house unannounced."

Kukui smiles innocently from ear to ear.
"Well, Y/n, I'm entering your house!... Better now?"

You chuckle.
"Definitely. Professor, wha-"

"Is that Bruxish Poke??" He asks, staring at your plate.

"Correct! Let me get you a plate! Actually, you know what... Rotom," you say, and out of the Pokédex comes your Rotom, "send a message to my friends Glad-"

Professor Kukui raises his hands apologetically:
"Actually, I don't think that'll be necessary... You see, Hau told my wife to set out on a little mission, and-"
"I'm here, sweetheart!" Professor Burnet calls out, and the sound of Solgaleo's purring can be heard all the way from the courtyard.

Suddenly, an Aether grunt pops into the kitchen, turns back around and exclaims:
"The Champion is here, Mr. Aether, sir."

A few seconds after, Gladion entered the room, looking smug in his new Aether President outfit. He was accompanied by one other grunt.
"Hmph... I told you not to call me that! It's embarrassing... Call me Gladion, please!"

Smiling, you embrace your friend before leading him to the table. Sitting down, Gladion sighs:
"Thanks for having me here, Y/n... It's nice taking a break from being the Aether President from time to time, I'm starting to understand why mum didn't have much time to spend with Lil and I growing up. Professor." He kindly nods towards the Professor.

"Hey there, cuz! It's been a while, yeah! I have to say, congratulations on your work! The number of hurt or abandoned Pokémon has decreased immensely ever since you have taken over the Foundation, woo! We're all very grateful, oh yeah!" Kukui exclaims excitedly.

You notice a slight smile in Gladion's lips.
"Thanks, Professor, that means a lot! I'm not used to the responsibility still, but we're getting there... I-"

"Glad!!" Hau shouts, running up to Gladion and wrapping him into a tight hug. Gladion grunts as his backbones get crushed:
"It's good to see you too, Hau." He says, groaning.

The boy immediately turns around to face you:
"How you feeling, Y/n? I hope you're ready to fight, because I'm going to give it my all! Oh, and don't forget to say hi to the referee - Tutu!"

Hau points behind him, as ex-Kahuna Hala slowly walks up to you.
"Good to see you again, young Champion! I'm looking forward to witnessing a great battle again in Melemele, it's been a while!"

You smile faintly, and as you go on to respond, you softly take Hala's arm, leading him into the courtyard to have some privacy.
"We all know you love standing in that arena in Iki Town, Hala, but the truth is... I haven't fully made up my mind yet... I hope you can understand."

Hala strokes his beard thoughtfully, nodding as if he'd expected your words. "Hmm, it's good that you recognise your own uncertainty. That, too, is a strength. Many trainers would rush in, letting their pride cloud their judgment. But not you."

He pauses, letting his words sink in before continuing. "Readiness doesn't always mean you're at your strongest. Sometimes, it's about being in the right mindset. If you feel hesitation, it's important to ask yourself why. What is it that's weighing you down?"

You glance at the ground, taking in his words. "I think... it's everything that's happening around me. The region, so many things I have to worry about... Lillie... It's hard to focus."

Hala's expression softens, and he places a firm yet gentle hand on your shoulder.
"I understand, Y/n. Life as Champion isn't just about battles. It's about balancing your duties and your own struggles. You don't need to be perfect, but you do need to stay grounded."

He smiles warmly, continuing.
"There's no shame in taking a step back to find your center. This battle with Hau... if you're not ready today, then that's okay. But remember, strength comes from knowing when to fight and when to wait."

He steps back holding up his hands in a disarming way, giving you space to think.
"The choice is yours. If you feel you're not ready, we can delay the match. But I trust that when the time is right, you'll rise to the challenge as you always have."
Taking in his advice, you stay quiet but let him know you very much value his kind words with a long nod.

After your talk with Hala, the weight of his words still lingers. You step back into the living room, your thoughts a bit clouded. The familiar sounds of your guests chatting greet you. Kukui is deep in conversation with Hau, both laughing at some joke. Burnet is pouring tea, while Gladion leans against the wall, his arms crossed, his expression stoic as ever. The two Aether grunts are hustling about.

"Y/n, I couldn't find ya, I thought you were out there already, yeah," Kukui says, raising an eyebrow, "Hala's getting ready, isn't he?"

You feel the subtle pressure in his words. Before you can respond, Hau chips in with his usual enthusiasm,
"C'mon, Y/n, it's gonna be great! You'll be back in action! Melemele Island is waiting!"

You smile faintly, but something still feels off. Your gaze drifts toward Gladion, and before you can say anything, he speaks up, his voice cutting through the room's casual atmosphere.
"You're not gonna let this opportunity pass, are you?" Gladion's tone is blunt but not unkind.
"A lot of people look up to you, Y/n. If you're not ready today... then when? Alola misses its Champion."

His words hit harder than he probably intended. You sigh, feeling the pressure build again. Burnet gives you a knowing look but doesn't say anything, offering you some space.

In that moment, your thoughts drift to Lillie. She's always had this way of making you feel grounded, even when you were doubting yourself. If Lillie were here, she'd probably encourage you, tell you that it's okay to be uncertain, but also remind you that you've overcome every challenge so far. Needing a breather, you mutter something about stepping outside and head for the door.

You step outside, the cool Alolan breeze brushing against your face, bringing with it the familiar scent of saltwater and sun-drenched palms. You inhale deeply, and then again, letting the fresh air calm your nerves, but it only helps so much. The distant sound of the waves crashing on the shore accompanies your thoughts as they swirl around everything that's been said. Hala's words, Kukui's encouragement, Hau's excitement, and even Gladion's sharp comment - all of it weighs heavily on you.

You lean against the wooden railing of your porch, staring out at the horizon. You can't help but think back to that time on Exeggutor Island when you and Lillie had sought refuge from a sudden downpour. The rain had come out of nowhere, drenching everything in seconds. You both hurriedly ducked into a small cave, laughing as the raindrops pelted the entrance. Inside, you were shielded from the storm, and as you sat there, watching the rain create a curtain of water outside, Lillie had turned to you with that bright smile of hers and said, "It's like nature is throwing a little party just for us!" Her ability to find joy in every situation had always amazed you. You felt your worries slip away, if only for a moment, as you shared that spontaneous adventure, talking about dreams and the future while the rain danced outside.

You take a deep breath, glancing back towards the house. After a few moments of silence, you finally stand upright, your hand still resting on Primarina's soft head.

"Maybe... Maybe I'll just take a walk. Clear my head."
Your Pokémon, gathered around you, seem to understand, and as you start walking down the path that leads towards Hau'oli beach, they follow silently at your side.

You head towards the beach, hoping for some peace and quiet, but as soon as your feet hit the sand, you hear a few excited gasps from nearby, a familiar sound by now. A small group of fans, mostly young trainers, spot you from a distance and quickly rush over, eager expressions lighting up their faces.
"Y/n! It's really you!" one of them squeals, bouncing on their toes. "The Champion! I can't believe we're meeting you in person!"

You manage a smile, though your heart isn't quite in it. "Yeah, hey," you respond, rubbing the back of your neck. Your Pokémon stand by, trying to keep a little distance, but they can't help but draw attention too. Another fan steps forward, wide-eyed.

"Can we get a picture with you? Please? My friends will never believe this!" They're practically vibrating with excitement as they pull out a PokéGear.
You nod, not wanting to disappoint them.
"Sure, why not."

As the group lines up beside you, one of the girls in the group, older than the rest, flashes a smile that's more than just friendly. She stands out, her long, dark, wavy hair catching the sunlight, and her athletic build accentuated by a fitted crop top and shorts.

There's something bold about her, from the way she walks to how her teal eyes lock onto yours. She bats her lashes playfully.

"You know, Y/n... I always thought you'd be even more handsome in person, and now I see I was right. Maybe after this, we could, I dunno, grab a malasada or something?"

Caught off guard, you chuckle awkwardly, unsure how to respond.
"Uh, thanks, but-"

Before you can finish, an older man rushes up to the group, clearly distressed. His face is flushed, and he's panting heavily as if he's been running for some time.

"Champion, please... I need your help!" he gasps. "Someone... someone is trying to rob my Miku! They have her cornered near the cliffs by the beach. I tried to stop them, but I'm no match for these thugs!"

The mood instantly shifts from lighthearted excitement to tense concern. You turn to the man, your expression hardening.

"The cliffs? Where precisely?" You ask, your voice firm now, the Champion inside you taking over.
The man points shakily toward the cliffs.
"Just over there! Please, you have to help before they get away!"

Your Pokémon perk up at the urgency in his tone, and you give them a nod, already moving in the direction the man indicated. You glance back briefly at the group of fans, offering them a quick smile.
"Sorry, guys. I'll have to catch up with you later."

Before they can respond, you're already sprinting towards the cliffs, your team close at your heels. Whatever doubts you had earlier vanish - right now, someone needs your help.

...

You reach the cliffs, where the sun glints off the ocean below, but the view isn't what draws your attention. A pair of Team Skull grunts stand over a terrified old woman, their mocking laughter echoing off the rocks. The sight ignites a fire in your chest as you step forward, your Pokémon flanking you, ready for a fight.

"Hey!" you call out, your voice steady. "What do you think you're doing?"

The grunts turn, surprise etched on their faces. The taller one, his spiky hair reflecting his attitude, sneers at you.
"Look who it is! The so-called Champion of Alola! You think you can just Swoobat in and ruin our fun? Get lost, dude!"

"Yeah! This is a Team Skull party, and you ain't invited, yo!" the other grunt chimes in, flexing his muscles and smirking. "We're just here to snag this sweet Pokémon, yo!"

"I'm not here for parties; I'm here to take you down." You reply, your tone unwavering.

The first grunt steps forward, a cocky grin plastered on his face.
"You wanna battle, champ? Bring it on, yo! We'll show you what Team Skull is all about!"
He throws a Poké Ball, releasing a Zubat that flaps around, letting out an annoying screech.

"Zubat? You're right, that is what Skull is about. Let's go, guys!" you say, slightly chuckling, calling out your own Pokémon. "Tapu Koko, let's show them what we've got!"

As Tapu Koko appears, the grunts look momentarily intimidated. "W-What?! Isn't that the Legendary Pokémon, the g-guardian of the island?" the first grunt stammers.

"You might want to wing it back to Po Town," you reply confidently. "Let's get this over with. Tapu Koko, use Thunderbolt!"

The powerful electric attack strikes Zubat down in an instant. The grunt's eyes widen in disbelief as he recalls his Pokémon, stammering, "W-what?! That's not how this is supposed to go, yo! Couldn't you have used like, uh, like a Caterpie or somethin'?"

His partner, sensing the tide turning against them, turns to the side. "I'm outta here, yo!" he yells, taking off down the cliff path.

"Hey! Get back here!" you shout, giving chase. The chase isn't long; the grunt stumbles over a loose rock, and you quickly close the distance, tackling him to the ground.

"Alright, let's make this quick," you say, standing over him as he scrambles to get up. "What are you two doing here?"

He groans, looking up at you with wide eyes. "Uh, stealing? Yeah, that's it! We're here to steal... um, them Pokémon, yo! You know, the usual Team Skull stuff!"

You cross your arms, unimpressed.
"You're not even good at this, are you? What do you know about Skull's plans? Who's in charge?"

The grunt fumbles for words.
"Uhh... We just follow orders, yo! We're not the brains of the operation, you know?"

His partner, now standing next to him, adds with a goofy grin, "Yeah! We're just here to wing it! But this is a bat-tle of wits, and we're losing, yo!"

You sigh, realizing this isn't going anywhere. "You really don't know anything, do you?"

"Nothing but our wild adventures, yo!" the first grunt exclaims, grinning foolishly. "That, and grunt C just told us we were meant to go out and cause some ruckus, yo! Personally, we're more about the vibes than the chaos, you pickin' up what I'm puttin' down? Just like our Zubat - we just flap about doin' our business lookin' Fly!"

As you shake your head in disbelief, the first grunt continues. "You should join us, yo! We could use a Champion like you! We promise we won't make you wear the Skull outfit, unless you want to! You'd look legendary, yo!"

"Yeah!" the second grunt chimes in, beaming. "You'd look great in black and white! Totally a fashion statement, perfect for a handsome chap like you, yo."

You can't help but grin at their absurdity. "I think I'll pass."

Realising they're not worth your time, you step back. These guys have one brain cell combined. "You two better leave the island before I change my mind and decide to turn you in. Get out of here."

With a mix of embarrassment and relief, they scramble to their feet and dart away. As they disappear down the path, you shake your head, your heart still racing from the confrontation. You turn back to the elderly woman, Miku, her face now relaxed with relief.

"Thank you, young man," she says in a shaky voice, her hands trembling as she clutches her Poké Ball.
"I thought they were going to steal my precious partner... I don't know what I would've done without you."

You give her a reassuring smile. "No problem, Miss. Just be careful out here."

Her eyes soften with gratitude as she reaches up to pat your arm. "You're a real Champion, you know that?"

Those words hit you deeper than expected. As Miku slowly shuffles away, you glance at your team. Your Pokémon stand tall, their gazes reflecting the same quiet strength and determination that you feel inside. You've just stopped a robbery, something worthy of your title.

The cool sea breeze washes over you as you stand at the edge of the cliffs, your earlier conversation with Hala replaying in your mind. This is what being a Champion is all about - protecting the vulnerable, stepping in when others don't. You feel a renewed sense of responsibility settle over you, but it's a burden you're now ready to bear.

Your thoughts shift to Hau. He's been waiting for this moment, for a chance to challenge you. The whole of Melemele Island will be watching this battle in honour of the Tapu. Until now, you weren't sure if you were ready to face him. But after today, that uncertainty fades.

You look out at the horizon, the ocean stretching endlessly ahead, and a quiet smile spreads across your face.

It's time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hi everyone! Golf here. That's chapter two done! As you might notice, this chapter is quite a bit different to the original already! The original chapter 2 had Steven fighting team Aqua in his house, had Y/n battling Hau and even had the arrival of Lillie! I decided to go for a different approach here to leave more room for character development, since the original felt really rushed imo (Y/n had the meeting, Steven fought team Aqua, Y/n battled Hau, met Lillie, went with her to the Tapu shrine, went home, went to the aether foundation, and Faba got murdered all in the span of 24 hours).

Personally I think it's more relatable and engaging to spend some more time with Y/n alone first to.
"But Golf, why is Y/n / Sun so insecure? He wasn't like that in the gen 7 games"
That's very true. But that's because Lillie was also there.

From my experience, having been through both multiple long-distance relationships as well as break-ups, this is the most realistic way I could think of writing Y/n's emotions without getting too dark. Love can freaking hurt, and sometimes things get better, sometimes they get worse out of nowhere.

Anyways, from now on changes will be biiig. That means more work for me! I rewrote 2 big chapters in the span of 4 days, that might not be the case anymore now since I'll have to rewrite almost everything.

That's my yapping session done. Go away now, and take care!
~Golf