Pokemon: I'm a Farmer

"Even though we'd already suspected this, now we finally have concrete experimental data!"

Professor Kukui spoke with barely concealed excitement.

In scientific research, guesses aren't enough—solid data is key. And the fact that Swellow could actively absorb Z-energy was enough for Kukui to draft a significant paper.

Until now, only Totem Pokémon were known to unconsciously draw in this energy. But with a Swellow that had learned to do it deliberately, it opened the possibility that other Pokémon might also learn to absorb it—and potentially evolve into Totem Pokémon themselves.

"Huh? Why are the glowing dots in Swellow's body floating back out?"

Māmane, ever curious about experiments, noticed the flickering light particles and blurted out with concern.

"Swellow's learned how to absorb Z-energy, but it still can't store or utilize it," Rex explained with a wry smile.

That was exactly the problem he'd hoped Kukui could help solve—without a way to retain the energy, it would all go to waste.

"Hmm... that is a problem. But why can't Swellow's body hold on to the Z-energy?"

Kukui frowned and fell silent, thinking deeply.

Time passed as they watched more glowing energy particles flow into Swellow's body—only to slowly leak back out.

"Wait a minute… actually, some of it is being absorbed," Kukui suddenly said.

Thanks to the sensitive instruments, he noticed that the total Z-energy being drawn in was slightly greater than the amount escaping—just barely. It was subtle enough that Swellow itself probably hadn't noticed.

Running some quick calculations, Kukui found that 99% of the absorbed Z-energy leaked back out. But about 1%—a tiny fraction—was indeed being absorbed into Swellow's body.

The proportion was so low that it barely had any effect, but technically, it was real.

"So what? Swellow's already absorbing very little Z-energy to begin with. If only 1% sticks, how's it ever going to become a Totem Pokémon at this rate?"

Even with the good news, Rex still couldn't help but feel a little frustrated. The efficiency was barely better than nothing.

"Rex, no new research is instant. The fact that your Swellow has come this far in such a short time is already way beyond my expectations."

Kukui quickly reassured him.

From his perspective, just proving that Z-energy could be consciously absorbed was a major breakthrough.

It confirmed that Rex's theory had merit. With enough accumulation, a shift could happen—a tipping point where Swellow might truly evolve into a Totem Pokémon.

Now they just needed to figure out how to help Swellow absorb Z-energy more efficiently.

"I understand, Professor Kukui."

Rex nodded, realizing he'd been a little impatient. After all, this much progress already counted as success.

And he had a new idea—one he wanted to test. It might be the key to speeding things up.

His plan was to have Swellow absorb Z-energy while in an overtaxed state, then inject life energy into it. A desperate body might instinctively cling to and retain the energy it needed to recover—and if that energy happened to be Z-energy, it might just get absorbed properly.

Of course, this would require Rex's unique ability to channel life force. Jumpluff's Grassy Terrain wouldn't be enough on its own, so he chose not to tell Kukui the full details just yet.

After completing Swellow's diagnostic test, Rex and the students were led on a tour of Kukui's research facility.

"Rex, you know about the Island Kings on each of Alola's four main islands, right?"

As they walked back toward the school, Kukui turned and asked casually.

"Yeah, I read about them before. If I remember correctly, Hala is the Island King of Melemele Island," Rex replied.

"That's right. Hala has served as Melemele's Island King for many years. He's protected the island through thick and thin—and most of the Z-Rings here were made by him personally."

"I've spoken to Hala about you. He's agreed to give you a chance. If you can pass his trial, he'll grant you a Z-Ring."

Kukui finally revealed the good news with a smile.

Of course, it hadn't been quite that simple. Kukui had gone to great lengths to vouch for Rex—impressed by both his strength and the maturity he'd shown after defeating the Totem Gumshoos.

Ultimately, Hala agreed to meet Rex, largely as a favor to Kukui.

"Really? That's amazing! Thank you so much, Professor Kukui!"

Rex looked like he'd just won the lottery, eyes wide with disbelief and excitement.

"When should I go see him?" he quickly asked.

"Whenever you're ready. Just go find him when you feel prepared."

Kukui gave his shoulder a reassuring pat, signaling that there was no rush.

The rest of the class, meanwhile, couldn't hide their envy.

So far, only Kiawe had completed a Grand Trial, inheriting his late grandfather's Z-Ring and Z-Crystal from the Island Queen Olivia of Akala Island.

Kiawe knew full well that he'd had some luck on his side—perhaps Olivia had gone easy on him out of respect for his grandfather.

That experience only pushed him to train harder than ever, determined to earn the recognition of all the Island Kings during his full Island Challenge.

(End of Chapter)