The Ultimate Guide To Pokémon Horizons Episode 98: Liko’s Massive Rematch And A Major Evolution Leak
The latest chapter of the Pokémon Horizons: The Series anime is set to deliver a major punch with Episode 98, titled "Reunion in Cortondo!" (HZ098), which is scheduled to air on June 6, 2025, in Japan. This highly-anticipated installment promises a significant reunion for the Rising Volt Tacklers, a high-stakes rematch for Liko against a familiar Gym Leader, and a long-awaited Pokémon evolution that fans have been speculating about for months. The episode’s plot details confirm that Liko and her companions will return to Paldea’s Cortondo Town, setting the stage for one of the most exciting developments in the ongoing "Rising Again" story arc.
The return to Cortondo is not merely a nostalgic visit; it is a pivotal moment for Liko's growth as a trainer, directly tying into the recent narrative focus on the Paldea region’s competitive scene. As the series pushes toward its 100th episode milestone, Episode 98 is positioned to resolve a key character subplot while simultaneously advancing Liko's journey to become stronger after her recent encounters with the Elite Four and the nefarious Explorers organization.
Key Details and Character Biographies for HZ098: Reunion in Cortondo!
Episode 98, "Reunion in Cortondo!," brings several major characters back into the spotlight, making it a crucial episode for character development and plot progression. The episode title itself hints at the primary focus: a heartfelt re-connection with a key member of the Rising Volt Tacklers who has been away from the main group.
Murdock: The Culinary Master and Rising Volt Tackler
- Role: Chef and supporting character on the Brave Olivine (the Rising Volt Tacklers' airship).
- Specialty: A highly skilled chef who is responsible for all the meals and especially the desserts enjoyed by the crew.
- Background: Murdock once ran a shop with a friend, focusing on various delicious desserts.
- Key Pokémon: Rockruff (expected to evolve into Midday Lycanroc in this episode), and a Smeargle that assists him in the kitchen.
- Plot Importance: Episode 98 is centered around Liko and the others reuniting with him in Cortondo Town.
Katy: The Bug-Type Specialist and Cortondo Gym Leader
- Role: Gym Leader of the Cortondo Gym in the Paldea region.
- Specialty: Bug-type Pokémon.
- Badge: Awards the Bug Badge to trainers who defeat her.
- Previous Encounters: Liko previously battled Katy in an aptitude match for her Terastal training assessment (around Episode 47).
- Plot Importance: Katy is set to face Liko in a rematch, which is a major focus of the episode's preview.
Liko, Roy, and Dot: The Protagonists
- Liko: The main protagonist, on a journey to uncover the secrets of her pendant and the Ancient Adventurer, Lucius. Her main partner is Sprigatito.
- Roy: The secondary protagonist, seeking the legendary Ancient Pokémon, with his partner Fuecoco.
- Dot (Nidothing): The Rising Volt Tacklers' information broker and internet idol, with her partner Quaxly.
Liko’s High-Stakes Rematch Against Gym Leader Katy
The most thrilling aspect of "Reunion in Cortondo!" is the confirmation of a new battle: Liko vs. Katy. This isn't just any Gym Battle; it’s a crucial test of Liko’s progress since her first encounter with the Cortondo Gym Leader.
Liko's initial battle with Katy was a significant moment in her journey, serving as a Terastal training assessment rather than a formal Gym Challenge. Now, with the Rising Volt Tacklers potentially having completed a major leg of their quest—perhaps the one involving the Elite Four members like Rika, Lacey, and Drayton, who have recently been featured in the anime’s "Rising Again" arc—Liko’s return to Katy signifies a desire to prove her mastery of battle.
Katy, a formidable Bug-type specialist, is known for her powerful team, including her signature Pokémon, Teddiursa which Terastallizes into a Bug-type. Liko will need to utilize everything she has learned from Friede, the Elite Four, and her own experiences with the Explorers to secure a victory. This rematch will likely focus on Liko's strategic use of Sprigatito and the Terastal phenomenon, showcasing how far she has come from her timid beginnings.
The Evolution Everyone Has Been Waiting For: Rockruff to Midday Lycanroc
One of the biggest leaks and most exciting developments for Episode 98 is the strong hint that Murdock’s beloved partner, Rockruff, will finally evolve into Midday Lycanroc. The preview for HZ098 reportedly features a Midday Lycanroc, strongly suggesting that Murdock’s Rockruff has reached this evolutionary milestone.
The evolution of a main cast member's Pokémon is always a narrative high point, symbolizing growth, strength, and a deepening bond between trainer and Pokémon. Rockruff's evolution into the sleek, powerful Midday Lycanroc will not only give Murdock a stronger partner but also likely play a role in the episode's action. Given that Rockruff evolves during the day, the setting of the reunion and the battle in Cortondo Town is perfectly timed for this event.
This development has significant topical authority for the series. Evolutions like this often mark the end of one story phase and the beginning of another, providing a power boost necessary for the challenges ahead, such as facing the remaining Ancient Pokémon or the full might of the Explorers' leadership, including Amethio and his partner Ceruledge.
Connecting Episode 98 to the "Rising Again" Arc and Future Plot Lines
Episode 98 is not an isolated event; it is a crucial piece of the puzzle in the larger "Rising Again" arc of Pokémon Horizons, which began a new chapter in April 2025. This arc has seen Liko and Roy encounter members of the Paldea Elite Four, including Rika, Lacey, and Drayton, as they continue their quest to find Lucius’s six legendary Pokémon.
The reunion in Cortondo Town, which is a major city in the Paldea region, reinforces the anime’s focus on the region's lore and competitive structure. Liko's rematch with Katy, the Bug-type Gym Leader, is a direct result of her recent training and desire to improve her battle skills after facing the raw power of the Elite Four. This continuous cycle of training, battling, and self-improvement is central to the show's narrative.
Looking ahead, the success of Liko's battle in Episode 98 will set the tone for the final stretch of the current season. A victory would solidify her progress and confidence before the Rising Volt Tacklers potentially face their final confrontation with the Explorers, or before they embark on the final leg of their journey to find the remaining Ancient Pokémon, such as the Black Rayquaza, Lapras, and others.
Fans should prepare for an episode rich in character moments, culinary delights from Chef Murdock, and a visually stunning battle that highlights Liko's growth. The June 6, 2025, air date for "Reunion in Cortondo!" is a date Pokémon fans won't want to miss.
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