October in Alola.
The sea breeze carried a faint chill.
It was a wonderfully pleasant season in the Alola Region.
Melemele Island.
Sunlight still spilled generously across Melemele Island.
On October 18, only three days remained before the eagerly awaited Pokémon World Master League Knockout Round began.
Over two days, the competitors would battle for the sixteen spots in the Master League Main Event.
Through Hoopa's ring,
Li Wei returned to the Alola Region with Mallow.
Li Wei had given Mallow a break for the Master League. She could watch the matches with Lillie, Lana, and the others in the evenings,
but she still had to train during the day.
"Melemele Island, I'm back!"
With her hair tied in twin ponytails, Mallow was as energetic as ever, carrying a sturdy-looking case of specialized cooking utensils in her arms.
Not long ago, Shaymin had gathered with the other Shaymin and left Mallow's side.
But Shaymin had made a promise to Mallow.
Next year, Shaymin would return to the Alola Region.
When that time came, Shaymin would visit Mallow at Aina's Kitchen.
"Come on, let's head straight to Lillie's house."
Li Wei had already arranged with Lusamine and her family to visit them that day.
"James."
"Mr. Li Wei."
Li Wei couldn't help laughing.
"Didn't I tell you to just call me Li Wei?"
Every time, James readily agreed,
only to turn around and call him Mr. Li Wei again.
As soon as she saw Li Wei and Mallow,
Lusamine's face lit up with a smile.
"Welcome back, Li Wei, Mallow!"
Lillie waved happily at Mallow, then hugged her, while Vulpix trotted around them in cheerful circles.
"It's been ages, Mallow!"
"Chairwoman Lusamine, sorry for the intrusion."
Li Wei nodded in greeting. "I heard Professor Mohn has fully settled back into