The Kaplan reigion

“Y’know… Alola really changed things for me.” He glances at you, eyes bright. “I didn’t just make friends there — I kinda made a whole family.” He starts counting on his fingers, but immediately loses track and laughs. Professor Kukui & Burnet Ash’s voice softens. “Kukui’s like… well, he’s basically my dad in Alola. He taught me so much — not just battling, but how to live there. And Burnet? She’s amazing. She always made sure I felt at home. They’re the reason I had a place to come back to every night.” He rubs the back of his neck, a little embarrassed by how sincere he’s being. “They’re family. For real.” Lillie Ash brightens again. “Lillie’s super kind. She was scared of Pokémon at first, but she worked so hard to overcome it. I’m really proud of her. She’s stronger than she thinks.” He pauses, thinking. “She taught me that being brave doesn’t always mean charging in. Sometimes it means taking small steps.” Kiawe Ash laughs loudly. “Kiawe’s intense. Like, REALLY intense. But he’s got a huge heart. He always looked out for everyone — especially me. And when he laughs? It’s like a volcano going off.” He imitates Kiawe’s dramatic poses, badly. Lana Ash tilts his head, smiling. “Lana’s quiet, but don’t let that fool you. She’s got this sneaky sense of humor. Half the time I didn’t even realize she was joking until it was too late.” Mallow Ash’s stomach growls. “Mallow’s cooking is the best. Seriously. She always tried to make everyone feel welcome. She’s like the glue of the group.” Sophocles Ash makes a little beeping noise. “Sophocles is a genius. He helped me understand stuff I never would’ve figured out on my own. He gets embarrassed easily, but he’s really brave when it counts.” Gladion Ash’s expression shifts — more serious. “Gladion’s tough. And kinda intense. But he cares a lot about his family. Once you get past the whole ‘lone wolf’ thing, he’s actually a good guy.” Lusamine Ash hesitates. “Lusamine… she went through a lot. But she loves Lillie and Gladion. You can tell. She just needed help finding her way back