This was....a lot better than I expected it to be. Lots of cute character moments, Shaymin actually demonstrated a personality, and Mallow and Lana actually shown bonds with their secondaries. I'm really hoping this isn't a one time thing like Popplio in the previous separation episode, we don't get nearly enough chemistries between different Pokemon teams this series.
Shaymin seems likeable enough, predictable personality but at least it has one at all now. Timid but incredibly loyal. In one episode it's already done more to endear itself than Tsareena has, who they even gave a quick excuse for not being in this episode (wonder what's Brionne's excuse, Lana used to take Popplio everywhere).
Even the TR interruption wasn't an utterly dull curbstomp, with abilities and typing put into use and Mareanie actually getting in a deadly hit, if only to show off Shaymin's Aromatherapy (interesting the twerps have a healer in their group now, always thought it'd be Lillie due to her games' team, though surely this would encourage the use of Mallow in more tense battles so such a move isn't completely redundant). Of course TR still forget they have a Z Move, though I think there's even more outrageous wasted potential; no Wobbuffet vs Lycanroc Counter Battle. Come on, make it happen, SM!
I like the depiction of Maile City in this episode, especially the emphasised co-existance of humans and Pokemon, who actually serve employment in many areas. Also remembered to use that lovely theme from the games (whose placing bets the dub takes it out?).
Other nice interaction moments, Ash saving Lillie's hat, him and Sophocles pigging out, Lana being driven mad by Sandy's playing up, Jessie managing to coerce Mimikyu into battle by pointing out Pikachu. Also seems to be a running gag that TR's snack business loses out due to poor timing or competition rather than bad produce.
Is it just me by the way, or does Bewear seem much more like a character since Stufful came along rather than an expressionless force of nature? We've had times it's shown more emotion like anger towards Phermosa or cases like this episode where it actually bungles a rescue attempt.
That awkward moment when your realize just how little screentime the TRio has gotten lately...
Ultra Legends seems to be doing a little better with them. We've seen Mareanie and Mimikyu battle more often and they've had the odd funny interaction with the twerps in some episodes. Better moderation than XY around this time when they were used non-stop in the exact same by-the-numbers way.
