The forest buzzed softly with life—the chirping of Pikipek mingling with the rustling of leaves in the evening breeze. At Professor Kukui’s house, warmth filled the air as Ash, Goh, Lana, Mallow, and Kiawe gathered over a table of Alolan dishes, Mallow’s cooking drawing smiles and laughter.

As the conversation eased, Lana pulled out a letter from Lillie and read it aloud. Her words carried Lillie’s warmth but also a hint of longing as she shared updates on her family’s journey. A quiet pause followed, everyone reflecting on their distant friend.

Kiawe broke the silence, arms folded confidently. “Ash used to call me his rival in Alola,” he said with a grin. “But I don’t think you’d keep up with me, Goh.”

Goh blinked. “Wait wait wait-!”

Ash’s eyes lit up, but before he could jump in, a soft sound came from above. The group froze, looking up as a figure dropped gracefully from the trees, landing silently. They straightened, arms crossed, their expression calm yet commanding. Behind them, a sleek Midnight Form Lycanroc padded forward, its piercing gaze adding to the tension.

Ash broke into a wide grin. “I was wondering when you’d show up!” he exclaimed, standing.

“Who’s that?” Goh asked, eyeing the newcomer warily.

Ash’s grin widened. “That’s my sister! She’s been training here in Alola.”

Kiawe cleared his throat, his usual confidence wavering under her gaze. “Uh, yeah, we’ve met,” he muttered, looking away.

“Met?” Lana teased, smirking. “You mean you lost to her, didn’t you?”

“I didn’t lose!” Kiawe snapped, his face flushing. “It was just… a close match.”