Pokémon: Rise Of The Rockets

[Dr. Hidaka]

OOC: Moving it along for Evan and Jenny

IC: Evan Tierra

After he had sent the messages, Evan finally truly felt the weight of his fatigue and went to his bed and fell into a blissful rest. The excitement of the day had tired him out greatly, and he was grateful for a chance to sleep on a cozy bed.

And then the next day came...

"Beep! Beep! Beep!" rang Evan's Pokegear alarm, waking the man, to a sunny sky in the window. He rose from bed and yawned, stretching his arms out as he did so. "Goooooood moooorning, Alola!" The Plasma Agent said cheerfully, pretty sure his alarm had done the job of waking up Jenny. "It's a beautiful morning here in Heahea City." The man stepped out onto the balcony of the room after dressing himself and was struck by how warm it was. Yeah, definitely getting better clothes here first.

He then walked over to Jenny's bed, and spoke. "Hope you had a good rest, Jen-Jen!" Evan said, giving the woman a big smile.

Feral's voice echoed in the Plasma Agent's mind. "Yeah, yeah, I'm awake."

Edited June 16, 2018 by Dr. Hidaka

[MELON LORD]

IC

Six people entered the lab, unaware of the eyes watching them from a vantage higher in the room. The aide -- Jason was his name, what a terrible name for anything -- greeted them from behind his desk, asking the nature of their visit.

 

The silver-haired one, whose light was smooth like thunderclouds before a storm, told the aide that they were there to see the professor. Eyes flicked over the rest of the group, only taking any real interest in one of the older girls whose being was golden flame. Her and the silver boy, they could be what he'd been looking for.

 

Jason shook his head. "The professor is busy, at the moment, I'm afraid. He's overseeing vaccinations of some new Pokémon and doing research."

 

Silver-hair hummed, tapping his fingers on the desk as he looked around. For a moment, he seemed to look up, in the direction of the watcher. There was a brief moment of panic, then the boy seemed to turn his attention away. "Could you take us to him, please? We're here on behalf of a friend of his."

 

Jason furrowed his brow, trying to look stern. With the oversized glasses and the giant coat he wore, he just looked ridiculous, like a child caught trying on his father's clothes.

 

"Very well, I will see. What's the friend's name?"

 

Silver-mane seemed to be losing patience, the swirl of storm starting to boil towards the surface before suppressing itself. His voice was terse as he said "Xander Cruize," and it had the desired effect. Jason went from angry to respectful in an instant, and led the group towards the back of the lab.

 

Curious, the Froakie hopped off the bookshelf and followed them.

 

Professor Augustine Sycamore stood outside of an observation window, his Holo Caster in hand. He kept one eye on it as he watched another aide set an oddly-colored Fennekin on the table and begin administering the vaccines. He turned as he saw the sizable group approaching. A smile came to his face, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he did.

 

"Hello, there! Jason, what's going on?"

 

"They say they're friends of Cruize's, sir."

 

"Ah, I see! How is my old student? What brings you all here?" He looked between each member of the group, the smile never leaving his face.

 

Silver-mane glanced at the Golden girl, a silent invitation for her to answer the professor's question.

[Blessed Blade]

-==IC: Lucia -- Prism Tower==-

 

"Yeah, we met a few years ago." Lucia took a moment to actually recall the exact place they had met before. "I think it was back in Viridian City? I think you were looking into the abandoned gym there?" She chuckled after that. "I recall that you tried to help me battle back then, but it... didn't quite work as well as it could have."

 

-==IC: Colleen -- Lumiose Pokémon Lab==-

 

"Well, it's like this..." Colleen began to explain the situation about how Xander had sent them here to check in about the mission and then explained what their mission even was. After she finished, she glanced over at Jared for a moment, as she briefly wondered how the one who hadn't talked to Xander had gotten shouldered with the task.

[MELON LORD]

IC: Jared Winters/Lachina Adaon - Sycamore Pokémon Lab

 

The professor sighed and nodded as Colleen explained. "I see. Well--" He was cut off by the sound of somebody shouting on his Holo Caster. He fumbled with the device in surprise for a moment before pressing the pause button.

 

Jared raised an eyebrow. "What's that about?"

 

"Sorry, just some research I'm doing." The professor looked back to the observation window as the gray Fennekin was removed and replace with a pale blue Froakie.

 

"Research?" Lachina prompted curiously.

 

"Ah, yes. I shouldn't say." Sycamore hummed, thoughtful. "Though, you say you're friends of Xander's. Well, alright. A day or so ago, three Pokémon did two amazing things over in the Sevii Islands. There have been reports of it happening in other regions, but no videos, no solid proof." He held up the Holo Caster. "Cell phone footage of a live feed, news videos from helicopters, and the footage from one incredibly brave reporter who is no longer with us, though has shown the truth of what happened on One Island.

 

"The first thing they did was get their abilities back. The second thing is that they evolved."

Edited June 14, 2018 by MELON LORD

[Konuju]

IC: Ryan Sanders - Train

"Your real mom?" Ryan raised an eyebrow, feeling like he'd missed out on some exposition at some point. "I don't think I'm too familiar with your family situation. Other than your crazy dad, that is." He sheepishly scratched the back of his head. "Er, sorry if it's a touchy subject. I don't mean to pry."

 

IC: Dahlia Seaton/Zoe Llyan - Sycamore Pokémon Lab, Lumiose City

Zoe immediately pressed her face against the glass to watch the gray Fennekin. "Wow, look at that, Esmeralda!" she cried. "I told you you'd meet a new friend!" From her perch on top of Zoe's head, Esmeralda yipped curiously at her fellow fennec fox. The pair wore a look of disappointment when the Fennekin was taken away and replaced with a boring bubble frog.

 

Dahlia, meanwhile, was taken aback by the intricacy of the Research Lab. She had read articles in the newspaper about Professor Elm's lab in New Bark Town, but she'd never actually been to a lab like this. It was only when Sycamore brought up the battle on One Island that she turned her attention back to the conversation. "They evolved? That's what Pokémon do, right? What's so amazing about that?"

 

She had heard bits and pieces about a strange phenomenon happening during the battle, but she had been in the hospital at the time and didn't know all the details. If this footage really was all over the internet, she realized her question probably sounded incredibly stupid, but the words were already out of her mouth. The gardener quietly ducked her head and slipped to the back of the group, embarrassed by her response.

[MELON LORD]

IC

 

"You're right, and normally a Pokémon evolution, while spectacular to watch, is nothing out of the ordinary. However, the three Pokémon that evolved on One Island were a Tyranitar, a Scizor, and a Magnezone. All of these Pokémon were thought to be the final stage of evolution in their respective lines. They seem to have tapped into a hidden form of evolution." Sycamore nodded as he watched the shots being administered to the Froakie.

 

"The internet, of course, has latched onto the footage and is giving it all sorts of names: Ultra Burst, Bond Evolution, things like that. The scientific community -- including myself, of course -- have taken to calling it Bond Phenomenon, though we're pushing for the layman's term to be Mega Evolution. From what we've seen and the reports we've been getting, it happens only under very specific circumstances."

 

Jared cleared his throat. "That's all very interesting, Professor, but it's not why we're here."

 

The Professor chuckled a bit. "You're right, my apologies! I get sidetracked when it comes to my field of research." He hummed, fishing a scrap of paper and a pen from his pocket. "For Team Flare, there's not much I can say now. They've been thought dead for twelve years, with the few surviving members being quickly arrested or driven into hiding. However, you may be able to find information at these two addresses." He wrote them down quickly, handing the note to the silver-haired trainer.

 

"The first is a detective agency; the woman in charge got mixed up in a scheme by one of Flare's surviving scientists after their fall. The second is a cafe that used to be one of their bases. I'm not sure how useful it will be, but you might be able to dig something up."

 

Jared took the slip, nodding. "Thank you, Professor."

 

"You all be careful. Flare was ready to commit genocide the last time they were active. Who knows what they might do next."

 

As he led the way out, Jared carefully tore the paper into two. "If we're going to be on our way to that lab in Geosenge tonight, we should split up and cover both locations at once."

 

Lachina nodded lightly. "That sounds good, but who's going where?"

 

Jared bit the inside of his cheek as he thought. Not really knowing the group, he turned to Colleen. "What do you think would be best?"

[Parugi]

IC - Executive Scott Stone - Lavender Tower, Lavender Town:

 

Scott pulled a notepad and a pen from his belt, clearing his throat. "What did this 'medium' look like?" he asked. "Do you have any security footage from the day she came here?"

 

 

IC - Miyu - Docks, Vermilion City:

 

Ryan Hikari. Yamamoto Aori. Newcomer.

 

"Katou Miyu." Miyu pointed to Miyu. She wore a big smile. Miyu pointed to Aori. "Yamamoto Aori." Miyu pointed to Ryan. "Ryan Hikari." Miyu pointed to Shannon Willows. "You are called?"

 

 

IC - Blackskull - Blackskull's Office, The Alamo:

 

The door to Blackskull's office opened, and the man in question stepped into the doorway. He offered Lohe a silent and brief, though noticeable look of uncertainty before beckoning the Alolan representative to enter. He held a hand out. "Kane Umbra," Blackskull said. "You can call me Kane or Blackskull or . . . whatever you want. Nice to meet you."

 

He stepped aside, allowing Lohe entrance. Contrary to his name, Blackskull's office wasn't very dark. In fact, of all of Team Liberty's leaders, his was perhaps the least intimidating. Calm colors dominated, mixes of lavender and cool blues and grays, like a purple sunset over the ocean condensed into a single space. The furniture was of simple make, and so clean as to appear almost entirely unused. In a corner stood a small table, adorned with crystals, candles, and a number of seashells. The glow of sunlight from a window above blanketed the office in a drowsy warmth. On his desk were four small picture frames, one containing a photo of himself and Goldhawk, one of Bluefalcon, one of what was presumably his immediate family, and one of a younger, mid-twenties Blackskull embracing a similarly-aged boy with purple-dyed hair. The entire room radiated an air of zen that currently could not be said to possess the Dark-Type Specialist himself.

 

Blackskull sat at the corner table, sitting cross-legged and facing toward the door. He gestured for Lohe to take a seat across from him. "It's Lohe, right? How can I help you?"

 

 

IC - Emmerich Coleman - Seated, Train:

 

For the majority of their conversation, Emmerich had only half-paid attention to what Ryan and Chloe discussed. At the words 'family situation,' however, he couldn't help but glance over at the pair, nor could he stop an eyebrow from raising at the mention of Chloe's 'crazy dad.' Still, he said nothing, opting to mind his own business for the time being.

 

 

IC - Kyle Eston/Sonja Baron - Battle Cart, Train:

 

Neptune landed with a squawk, face-planting on the ground. The Totodile pulled his face up, looking around, and let his head drop back to the floor with a sigh. Atum snorted, though similarly did not move to make another strike against Byakuya. Similarly, Lyxek and Kovian stared down Zangetsu, both ready to fight, but neither committing to it. It was clear that, for all their attempt to get into the spirit of the battle, each of them was still feeling the effects of the power outage, capable of offense yet uncomfortable with the lack of their abilities.

 

Kyle and Sonja both scanned the battlefield, waiting, watching, and thinking. An uncomfortable silence had fallen over the entire group, broken only by the rumblings of the train around them and the occasional ring of a bell or train horn from outside. The stress of the situation was unbearable; Sonja could feel her hands shaking at her sides, a sensation only worsened when she clenched her fists to try to steady herself.

 

"This is a complete mess . . ."

 

"It's not that bad," Kyle said. "These guys just aren't used to it. Hopefully it won't be long before--"

 

"I don't mean this stupid battle," Sonja responded. "I mean everything is a complete mess. McKinley lied about everything, he tricked us into helping him, and because of him, that . . ." Her fury faltered, replaced by something less steady. "That thing is out there, slowly eating everything; Pierce, Adams, and Goldhawk are dead; Ford and Hayes have no idea what to do; and Ellen . . ." Sonja's voice cracked. "How am I ever going to look Ellen in the eyes again, after what she's been through? I couldn't protect her from Hayes, I couldn't protect her from McKinley . . . and I can't protect her from this . . ."  She brought her hands to her face, trying desperately to stop herself from crying. "All I wanted was to get my family back . . ." Her composure didn't hold, and she sunk to her knees, sobbing into her palms.

"Sonja . . ." Kyle didn't know what to do to help her. He felt foggy, disassociated from himself and the situation. A halfhearted attempt to raise a hand toward her fell flat after a moment, and he couldn't seem to find the strength the take a step forward. So instead he could only stand, silent, watching and giving her time.

 

The sensation of a small hand on her back gave Sonja pause. Ellen? It was a strange, yet hopeful thought--she knew that Ellen had remained on the plane, but perhaps she had actually snuck off and had made her way back to them? But no, it was not her. Instead Sonja found herself in the embrace of Neptune, the Totodile having padded his way back to his trainer in her time of distress. She took a few ragged breaths, confused yet thankful for the Pokémon's presence. She couldn't help but think back to when she had met Neptune--a little over half a year ago, in the waters of Village Bridge. Perhaps it was a coincidence that the Totodile hailed from the same town as Ellen herself; it was comforting nonetheless. She wrapped her arms around him, giving the Water-Type a quick, loving kiss on the nose.

 

A sensation of warmth overcame Sonja as Neptune became engulfed in a white light. She opened her eyes, pulling back slightly from him and watching as his form shifted from that of a Totodile and into a Croconaw. As the light faded, Sonja felt herself lost for words. Luckily, Neptune the Croconaw had her covered. He chirped happily at her, running his face against hers. They were joined by Atum, who offered an approving growl to Neptune.

 

The scene snapped Kyle back to reality. He took a breath of his inhaler, breathing deep--first in, then out. He approached the group, taking a seat nearby. Lyxek and Kovian joined him. "It's not all bad, guys," he gently repeated. "Things aren't great right now. But we aren't dealing with Missing Zero or the Signs or anything alone. And we still have time . . ." He dropped his stare to the ground. "Honestly, that's partly why I wanted to talk with both of you--why I was wondering about Ford. I don't know if you're afraid to go back, but if so, I want to help you, because you're two of my closest friends . . ."

 

Kyle's left hand visibly trembled. Without looking, he moved to grab it with his other hand. He continued speaking, his voice shaking almost as much as his arm. "But I also needed to ask you guys to help me. Because we're going to meet with the Signs. And I am afraid of going back." He glanced at Sonja. "I'm going anyway, even if I don't want to, because someone has to. But I'm afraid of what they've done already, and I'm afraid of what they could do this time."

Edited June 14, 2018 by Parugi

[Konuju]

IC: Shannon Willows - Docks, Vermilion City

Shannon offered Miyu a warm smile. "My name's Shannon Willows. It's nice to meet you, Miyu. You too, Aori." She stood up and looked over at Ryan. "We haven't even set foot on the shore yet, and it looks like we've already accomplished our mission. What now?"

 

IC: Dahlia Seaton/Zoe Llyan - Lumiose City

"I'm in Collie's group!" Zoe cried, grabbing her sister's hand. Esmeralda yipped in agreement.

[Blessed Blade]

-==IC: Colleen/Olivia -- Lumiose Pokémon Lab==-

 

Olivia and Colleen stayed quiet throughout the explanations of the phenomenon, not wanting to interrupt the professor. Olivia in particular seemed surprised by what was mentioned, but simply made a note to bring it up later when she was talking with Chloe.

 

When Jared brought up the idea of splitting the party in two, Colleen thought about it for a moment. However, when she prepared to speak, Zoe quickly chimed in on where she wanted to go. "Alright..." The aura wielder said, as she quickly worked to regain her train of thought. She glanced over everything as she looked around at the group that was there.

 

"I think that if those are the two places that we're going to be checking out, then we should split our talent in a similar way. We have two people with the same set of skills, who are both assigned as leaders - so I say we should head up each sub-group." Colleen said as she motioned to Jared. "I'd recommend that my team goes to check out the cafe thing - and that we take Lachina along. I mean, the other group is headed to a detective agency, so it's not exactly lacking in arrest power, but..." She paused and turned to Lachina. "You're a ranger, I think I recall you mentioning?"

 

-==IC: Ryan Hikari -- Vermilion City Docks==-

 

As Ryan was about to reply to Aori's question, he was slightly surprised by Shannon's sudden arrival. He waited with a smile as Shannon and Miyu talked for a few moments. However, he hesitated slightly as Shannon asked about what they'd do next.

 

"You know, I hadn't really thought that far out yet..." The man gave a sheepish grin at that and thought over the next plan. "Hm, I did get a... request to meet someone in Rocket earlier today." He recalled the message and wondered if it was as much of a "request" as it was an "order", considering how it seemed to be worded. "So maybe we could head there next?"

 

-==IC: Chloe -- Train to Blackthorn==-

 

This suddenly got awkward. Chloe struggled to think back to what Sanders did know. "Well... it's pretty much like this. So there's my dad, who pretty much is responsible for half the bad stuff I find myself in. Then there's one of my moms, who ran off into hiding and only showed up occasionally when she switched places with my real mom. My real mom died in that attack in Goldenrod four years ago, though - which was because of someone my dad hired to attack us. Which is what caused Ryan, my brother, to be turned against us until the deceit was revealed."

 

After a moment, Chloe paused. "Oh, and I also have a sister that I didn't know about for years. That's why my other mom was off in hiding for so long - though my other mom is Ryan and my sister's birth mom." She scratched her head slightly, though as she looked out the window it looked like they were quickly approaching the Blackthorn train station. "It's very complicated. I try to forget about it when I can. Especially my other mom, who only seems to show up when it's convenient."

 

-==IC: Ray -- Train to Blackthorn==-

 

Ray faltered as he tried to find any of the words to say. He tried to think of anything that he could say, but the things that everyone mentioned just seemed to pierce through him. The young man stayed where he was standing for a brief moment, but then slowly approached - though he made sure to keep a little ways away after the last couple times he was yelled at for overstepping boundaries.

 

"I'm... scared too. I've been trying to make sure that I try to keep up my smile and everything for the sake of morale, but like... this situation is stressful, and I don't want to go back either. I know that Ford's base likely will be empty but like... will the atmosphere be any different?" Ray sighed, as he scratched his head awkwardly and uncertainly. He wanted to say something about what Sonja had said, but he felt like his words would be hollow. At one point, it seemed like he was in the exact situation she was in. Now, every little thing seemed to be getting better for him in those regards, but worse for her.

 

But, he had to try. "I... want to help, though; not just with everything we have to do, but you two as well. Kyle has a point - I want your help, and I want to help." Ray faltered again slightly, but gave the best smile that he could.

 

-==IC: Jenny -- Heahea City==-

 

Jenny groaned slightly, as she rustled around in her bed. "Five more minutes..." She let out a small whine as she attempted to shield her eyes from the sunlight in the room for a moment, but gave up with a sigh after the attempt failed. The redhead sat up groggily, as she frowned in contemplation. "That's weird. I feel like I had the weirdest dream ever last night - twice, for that matter."

[Flipz]

OOC: Jam with Merc and Pears.

 

IC: Alex Zyther/Alma Mason/Tyler McKinley/Thomas Warren/John Ford - Den, Black Horse Manor, Kalos (Night of August 7th, 2017)

 

“Unova?!”

 

“I just said that.” Warren frowned at Alex, but the latter was spared the former’s wrath by an interruption from Alma.

 

“There is more,” the girl began. “Alex and I--”

 

“Di-di!” Didi objected.

 

“--as well as our Pokémon, have discovered how we arrived in this reality. Specifically, there is an old legend about traveling through the mirrors of Reflection Cave, but unfortunately the path back home closed at sunset.”

 

“Do we know when it will reopen?”

 

Alex shook his head. “We could barely find as much as we did. All we could confirm was that the path closes at sunset--and even if we did reopen it, I think that particular mirror in our universe got shattered when we went through it..” The Kalosian paused, musing before turning to look at the Carbink they’d rescued. “I don’t suppose you know any more about the mirrors?”

 

The Carbink in question started, somewhat surprised at Alex’s attention. Still, she considered the question, opening her mouth to answer before realizing that though she could still speak normally, the humans would not be able to understand it. She called out to Raleigh, the Psychic-type rousing from his own distraction to assist, and began babbling a string of almost musical nonsense to him -- a Pokémon poem, it seemed.

 

“Translation, Raleigh?”

 

Raleigh opened his mouth to answer before running into the same problem his counterpart had.

 

“…right, sorry, forgot. Sorry, didn’t mean to put you on the spot--”

 

The Ralts waved away Alex’s concerns, concentrating. Staring intently at his Trainer, he tapped his chest before moving his hand to his head and pointing firmly at it.

 

“Well, that seems clear to me,” McKinley snarked, oblivious to Warren’s irritated glare.

 

Alma was about to interject that she could communicate with her team, but something in the way her friend was looking at his Ralts made her hesitate.

 

Alex, meanwhile, focused intently on his Pokémon, mimicking the gesture from chest to head a few times before realizing what Raleigh was trying to say. “…keep your heart in mind?”

 

Raleigh glanced to the Carbink, who shook her head, before shrugging at Alex.

 

Alex stared at Raleigh, the angles letting the Trainer make eye contact with the Ralts. Raleigh repeated the gesture once more, with feeling, and something passed between them. “’Focus your mind on what’s in your heart; the mirrors will mark out the way.’”

 

Alma looked askance at Alex. “I’m sorry?”

 

“‘Focus your mind on what’s in your heart; the mirrors will mark out the way.’ It’s the poem they were trying to tell us.” Alex and Raleigh shared a smile at their success.

 

The Carbink seemed shocked by the successful translation, and she was not the only one. “How on earth did you get all that from that little gesture?”

 

Both Alex and Raleigh shrugged in succession. “Dunno,” Alex answered, “something just…clicked.”

 

Ford cleared his throat. “Regardless, that does not address the issue of your friends’ incarceration. I think I know someone in Unova who can help us, but it will take some effort on our part to release Ms. LaDonna and Ms. Zann. Tyler, have you and your Pokémon been to Black City before?”

 

“A few times.”

 

“Good. Once I’ve fetched some papers from my office, Thomas and Tyler will escort you to Unova. After you get to the prison, this is what you will need to do…”

 

 

---------------

“…so with luck, you’ll be out again before the next sunset passes. Any questions?”

 

Tyler shook his head with a grin. “I like this plan.”

 

Ford seemed slightly concerned by McKinley’s enthusiasm, but shook his head in tired amusement. “Very well. We’ll set things in motion upon the morrow, but…” Ford glanced to Alex and the Carbink. “Might I have a word in private before you go?”

 

The two shared a glance. “Of course, Mr. Ford.”

 

Moving into a side room and out of earshot of the others. Ford closed the door behind them and moved past Alex. A desk stood in this study, with a chair on either side of it. Ford gestured to the visitor seat, welcoming Alex or Carbink to take it, while he moved to his own chair.

 

“I will try to keep this brief,” Ford said. He spoke with a weight to each word, carefully choosing how to phrase what he was saying. “I cannot say whether you’re aware already, but I want to bring to your attention that your companion here is . . . unusual. Is she one of your Pokémon, officially?”

 

“Er. Not technically. She was in the cave with us, when we went through the mirror. Rescuing her from some of the cave’s other Pokémon was what ended up taking us here.”

 

Ford nodded. “And I presume that you intend to take her with you?”

 

“I mean…yeah. She needs to get home as much as we do, right?” Alex glanced at the Carbink, who was listening pensively.

 

“Of course,” Ford said. “I do not mean to suggest otherwise.” He paused, drumming his fingers against the desk. “These mirrors that you and Miss Mason spoke of . . . It occurs to me that they may bear some . . . connection to Carbink as a species, and more specifically the one accompanying you. I . . . believe that there may be a means to reactivate her powers, which would allow her to eventually find her way back to your dimension. It would take time--too much time to ask you to stay--but it is perhaps worth considering having her stay with us.”

 

Alex was taken aback by the man’s suggestion, but nonetheless took a moment to consider it. It was true that she wasn’t technically “his” Pokémon, but at the same time, he felt responsible for her. From the moment he’d seen her in the cave, there’d been a bond, some sense of shared sympathy that drew him to take her side. He’d recognized something in her, something he saw in himself, and leaped without hesitation to defend it, and for all that had happened since, he couldn’t bring himself to regret it.

 

Alex had his answer.

 

-----

 

“I’m…sorry, Mr. Ford, but I’m afraid I can’t do that. I made her a promise, and as long as she still wants me…” Alex looked to the Fairy-type expectantly, seeking her input.

 

The Carbink, for her part, was caught off-guard. This is it, she realized. Partnership. Seeking each other’s input. Not an order, but a request for permission, in service of a promise freely made. Was this Alex’s norm? Or was the Trainer on good behavior for Ford? For Alex’s faults, he has been nothing but kind since I--

 

Realization struck.

 

…since I opened the mirror.

 

-----

 

It was dark. It was cold. And it was loud.

 

The predators circled, drawing ever closer in. Strangers had appeared to rescue her, saviors against those who had devoured all the rest and yet still hungered for her, the last who remained--and yet, for all their vigor and heroism, it seemed they too were now just as doomed as her.

 

BANG

 

The horrid noise echoed in her ears, confusing her senses despite the human covering her as completely as it could with its body. It should have reassured her, the selfless protection making her feel safe, but all she could think of was what a fool the human was for walking willingly to its death. Crystals shattered, shards fell, and she felt one of the other Pokémon pulling her onto its back. She couldn’t care; all she wished, with every thought, with every fiber of her being, was to be somewhere else, anywhere else, so long as it wasn’t here…

 

A bright light briefly glimmered, and seconds later one of the humans turned its head. “There!” it shouted in its language, pointing at one of the crystals from atop its own Pokémon. “Go, go, go!”

 

She couldn’t tell what happened next, only the floor first lurching to launch them forth and then approaching again far too quickly…

 

-----

 

I did this, she realized. Not only had she been the baleful bait luring them into her predators’ trap, it was her wish that had brought them here, trapped them now in this strange other world.

 

Is that so bad? a part of her asked. To be trapped in a world spared the pain of our own?

 

Except it wasn’t, she realized. Two of the humans had been taken away, held prisoner for crimes not their own. The child, Alma, bore a frightening aura and a surprising degree of competence, but surely she missed her family? And Alex…the human had risked much for her, and was now trapped in a world with no place for him. Because of me, she reminded herself.

 

She had a choice. She’d gone in search of a partner. One was now on offer. One she hardly knew…but one she knew she owed a debt. This world could be a haven to her…at a price: to be safe but lose her chance of ever knowing her partner’s kindness had been repaid.

 

…”my partner’s kindness”. Hm.

 

It seemed her heart had chosen for her.

 

Returning Alex’s gaze, she nodded her assent.

 

Alex beamed at the Carbink before turning back to Ford. “Like I said, I made her a promise. And I intend to keep it.”

 

As Alex reaffirmed the promise he’d made to her, she made a promise of her own--to herself, for now, but to be shared when she could. I will stay by your side, as you are at mine. I will undo the harm I have caused. I will get us back home--and that home will be mine as much as yours. This I so swear, as a Princess of the Diamond Domain…Princess Coralie. There was more to the ritual, symbolic gestures to symbolize the pact. But in her heart, the bond was made, and that was where it truly mattered.

 

-----

 

For several moments, Ford remained silent, peering at Alex with an almost tangible thoughtfulness. Finally he nodded, removing his hand from his chin.

 

“I understand,” he said. “The bonds between humans and Pokémon are amazing things. I could never ask someone to willfully break one.” Ford rose to his feet. “Well, with that settled, perhaps it would be best now to get some sleep. We have a very busy day ahead of us.”

 

Unfortunate, Ford mused, leaning back in his chair as Alex and his ‘Carbink’ exited the room. But not unexpected. He steepled his fingers together, closing his eyes. In circumstances so potentially dire, any loss of a lead can be catastrophic. And yet . . . He opened his eyes, looking back to the door. I cannot honestly say that the potential for answers quite excuses the loss of morality. Perhaps my counterpart did not understand this . . .

 

Ford stood again, closing the book on his desk and slipping it into one of the side drawers.

 

Best of luck to you, Mr. Zyther. As well as your Diancie.

[MELON LORD]

IC: Jared Winters/Lachina Adaon

 

Lachina nodded. "I am, yeah. I think that'll work out." She flashed a thumbs-up.

 

Jared smiled. "Alright then, I guess we're in agreement. Do we want to meet back here in, say, an hour?"

 

The ranger hummed, looking around. "Better make it two; this city is kind of huge."

 

IC: Yamamoto Aori

 

Aori stayed quiet as Ryan spoke. She didn't have any objections to his plan, so it was best not to say anything. She looked to Miyu, curious about the nature of her new friend.

 

IC: Aspen Seaton

 

Aspen's day was as boring as it had ever been since he'd broken his leg. He spent most of it wandering around the Alamo, wishing that he could walk properly. Aria walked with him, the Lucario as alert as she always was.

 

Lunch was eaten by himself -- both of his sisters were in Kalos, Chloe and Sanders were also gone, and he had no clue where the other members of that group were. Honestly, he hadn't thought he would miss the company, but he found himself wishing for someone to talk to -- well, someone who could answer back. Aria wasn't much of a conversationalist when she had her aura abilities.

 

After lunch, he wandered some more, getting a better feel for the layout of Liberty's base. He explored for hours, taking random turns, going through doors he hadn't even seen before into halls he didn't know existed, until finally he found himself on the west side of the base. The sun was starting to set, painting the sky and ocean a fiery crimson color. He glanced at Aria, and the Lucario shrugged.

 

Aspen carefully sat, putting the crutches to the side. Aria stood behind him. In silence, the two watched the sun set. The youngest Seaton couldn't say for certain what was on his Lucario's mind, but he had the feeling that they were sharing similar thoughts. As they watched the sun slowly sink below the waves, they were both wondering what tomorrow would bring.

[Dr. Hidaka]

IC: Evan Tierra, Heahea City

Evan rubbed his chin, thinking about what Jenny said. "A weird dream, huh?" The man said, a pondering look on his face. "Weird as in a prophetic dream, or something? Would you mind telling me more?" The Hero then listened, as the redhead explained her dream. "Hmmmm, definitely seems weird." He said, a note of concern in his voice. "This may sound weirder but, maybe it's your memories coming back?"

[Metal Gear Minun]

IC: Jamie Arthur  - Prism Tower

 

Jamie looked at Lucia with a bit of confusion until she remembered that a few years ago was not the same eternity to Lucia that it was to her. She wanted to stop thinking about that, so she started talking.

 

"Man, you know a whole bunch of people, Lucia," Jamie said. It was her first time even hearing about the Kalosian Gym Leader, much less meeting him. "He tried to help you battle? Like, by teaching you or something?"

 

 

IC: Guinevere - Celadon mansion

 

That name struck a chord with Guinevere. The photograph once again appeared in her mind. It was still not solid evidence, but the name Patrick was now etched into her mind. She decided to hold off on mentioning it. Guinevere didn't want to diminish Natalie's use as a witness by coloring her perceptions.

Ask your friend

if you can

 

 

The length of time Natalie had been searching for her friend's number was disheartening, but it was good to hope.

Before we go out

I have some ideas

 

 

She began to write instructions to Natalie on what she needed to say when they got to the Rocket base, and some cover story ideas. For example: she was to pretend Guinevere was her Pokemon, if asked. Partially to seem less suspicious, but mostly so she wouldn't be the one to have to do the 'talking'.

 

 

IC: Lohe Mahina - Blackskull’s office

 

Lohe shielded his eyes for a moment from the rays of sunlight that came into the room. He was rather regretting going with the name that sounded like it would have a darker office. He took a seat and promptly slouched in it.

 

“Well I’m putting in an appearance, as per the instructions of my government,” he said with a monotone voice. “Got some questions they’d like answered.”

 

He remembered the yelling he got from the last people he questioned. Blackskull seemed friendly enough, but he doubted he was gonna enjoy Lohe’s questions either.

 

“I got a few of them answered by one of your agents. Saves you the trouble of answering them at least.”

 

His fingers began to absentmindedly rub one of the seashell ornaments on the desk. 

 

“They’re taking heart at the news from One Island,” he said as he gave a half-hearted effort to correct his posture. “The news that some Pokemon were spotted with their powers again is good. However, they want to be assured that something like that whole de-powering thing, can’t happen again.”

 

And here was the part that he hadn’t discussed with Sonja.

 

“And to be frank, they’d like it from the Rapidash’s mouth.”

 

 

IC: Ryan’s Cell Pokegear

 

As if responding to Ryan’s musing, his phone rang once again.

 

Dear Agent Hikari,

 

Please make your way to the Rocket Vermillion Branch offices at your earliest convenience.

 

-Ambassador Miriam Shields

 

 

IC: Claus Diamond - Alamo front lobby

 

An announcement rang out calling Zack Furler to the receptionist. He wasn’t on a mission was all he was able to glean. He had to hope that Zack was still on the island, and not taking a vacation or something like that.

 

Claus Diamond rubbed Porky’s belly as he waited. The Tepig on his side with a content smile on his face in response to Claus’s fingers. He read through the records on his father time and again, barely registering Porky. His senses dulled to approaching footsteps.

 

“Are you Diamond’s kid?” a voice asked.

 

Claus looked up to see a man looking down at him. The face that looked down at him, reminded Claus of what his dad told him Team Galactic's leader looked like, with only the smile looking at of place.

 

“I am.”

 

Claus didn’t need to tell Zack why he wanted to speak with him. 

 

“You want to talk about your parents?” he asked as he sat down next to Claus

 

“Yes.”

 

“Alright. Let’s talk.”

 

 

IC: James Arthur - Route 4

 

James stood some ways outside the Tide Song hotel. To the east was a path often used by trainers. With his Scizor by his side, he might've seemed like an ordinary trainer, going off to train and challenge any trainer that came his way. For fun or glory, what would it matter?

 

But his training had a completely different purpose. He had to activate an ability that no one knew was even possible. They hadn’t had time to practice the transformation since One Island. They would need it soon.

 

"So..." James mentioned, not really having any idea how to start. "Try transforming," he said awkwardly. Hoping he was alone.

 

James may as well have said solve a three-body problem, for all the sense that made to Lancelot. The transformation just sorta.... happened.

 

"Right. We never have an easy time," James said, pinching the bridge of his nose. He felt a bit frustrated that he even suggested it would. "Alright, any ideas, short of re-creating the conditions of the situation?”

 

A transformation that forced them to be the brink of death to be used would be… impractical at the least. A part of him wished Amanda had not worked herself to death the day prior. James wanted to compare notes with her about the transformation.

 

Lancelot spun and twirled to create the ethereal swords of Swords Dance. They were two one-handed swords before him. Not the one great claymore he had wielded against the samurai. He saw a sapling before him. Without a sound, he tore through it. As the dead tree fell to the ground, it confirmed that his abilities were not mere hallucinations.

 

Celebi popped out of her Ultra Ball on seeing that, and gave the Scizor a disapproving glare at the pointless waste of forest life. 

 

A light bulb lit in James’s eyes. It occurred to James he had not sought ancient knowledge on this subject.

 

“Celebi, have you seen anything resembling a Scizor evolving further, temporarily?”

 

The question seemed to frustrate the time traveler. M0 was a cancer to the timeline. This transformation was a complete anomaly to it. And without her power, she couldn’t check how the timelines had been altered. She hadn’t seen it before. Not to say that it couldn’t have existed before M0, but not in any timeline she had traveled through.

 

“Not even you?” James said, gritting his teeth.

 

Team Liberty needed him to produce results with today's meeting. With everything that happened in the previous mission, Liberty needed this alliance and soon.

 

 

[Konuju]

IC: Ryan Sanders - Train, Blackthorn City

Ryan had no words. He simply stared in shock at Chloe, mouth agape. What could he -- who had grown up with two loving parents who almost never fought -- possibly say to Chloe? He was at a complete loss. It was only when the train pulled into the Blackthorn Station and an automated voice announced their destination that Ryan forced himself to at least say something in response to Chloe's family situation.

 

"I guess I can't say I blame you for trying to forget all that. It must've sucked growing up like that. I'm sorry." Shouldering his backpack, Ryan stood up, and motioned for Chloe to go ahead of him. In the back of his mind, he couldn't help but think back to Sonja's family situation, or Ray's, or even Kyle's. Was he really the only one who'd come from a normal family? He felt ashamed for taking his situation for granted.

 

IC: Shannon Willows - Docks, Vermilion City

"That's fine with me, as long as Aori and Miyu here don't mind sitting through boring Rocket meetings." She smiled down at the girls. "Don't worry, I'll keep you two company during the meeting. Oh, I almost forgot!" She held out her Dunsparce, who nodded his head at the pair of children. "This is Sousa. The energetic one there is Selena, and the shy Eevee is Salix." Selena chirped a happy greeting while Salix poked his head out from behind Shannon's legs. "Do you girls have any Pokémon of your own?"

 

IC: Dahlia Seaton/Zoe Llyan - Streets, Lumiose City

"Looks like I'm with you, Sis." Dahlia smiled over at Olivia as the groups were decided. "A detective agency, huh? Sounds thrilling. I hope Jared knows where he's going, cause I sure don't."

 

Zoe took in the fantastic sight that was Lachina. Between her Ranger uniform, the flight goggles hanging around her neck, and an intricate hairdo that would give Collie's dog ears a run for their money, the girl looked like she had stepped right out of a comic book. At the very least, she looked far cooler than that always-serious silver-haired guy. Zoe walked up to her in awe. "Are you really a Power Ranger, Miss?"

 

IC: Dack Majors/Madison Morrow/Luke - Team Rocket Vermilion Branch

A large mass of infuriated people swarmed the entrance to Team Rocket's Vermilion Outpost. As Dack, Madison and Luke drew closer, they realized the crowd was full of refugees demanding reimbursement for their forced evacuation from One Island. Law enforcement formed a barricade between the rioters and the building, although it seemed they were just barely keeping the situation from getting out of control.

 

Dack couldn't help but think back to the gelatinous mass of Missing Zero swarming the beach and the eighteen trainers sent to control the situation. "What are they complaining for?" he muttered. "They have a refugee camp, it's not like they're lacking food, water, or shelter. They can't seriously expect the government to give them brand new homes out of thin air."

 

"Man, I thought Sleight was supposed to be more intimidating than Bounty," Luke said. "You didn't see any rioters after the Snowpoint Avalanche demanding Bounty fix all their problems."

 

"That's because everyone blamed Liberty for the avalanche." Madison eyed the crowd with a trace of sadness. "These people can't sue a giant red blob, so they're turning to the people who made them evacuate in the first place."

 

"It's ridiculous," Dack growled. "The people of Sevii have always distanced themselves from Rocket's rule. What right do they have to demand Rocket do anything for them?"

 

"They've lost everything," Madison said. "But they should be helping each other, not seeking personal gain."

 

The Snowpoint Trio linked arms and carefully navigated their way through the dense crowd. Up close the yelling and chanting was deafening, and the companions were constantly jostled every which way. When at last they made it to the entrance, Dack flashed his Rocket badge. The officer in question let the trio through, then quickly moved to block the swarm of people that tried to trickle in behind them.

 

The interior of the building was far quieter than the exterior. While not as grandiose as Chapel, the outpost maintained the same sense of luxury as the main base it represented. Potted plants lined the walls and a waterfall trickled down to a small pool in the lobby. While Madison and Luke took in the sights, Dack strode up to the front desk. "I need to use your computer room," he said. "And my friends here need visitor badges."

 

"Do your friends have IDs?" The receptionist glanced over at Madison and Luke, who quickly produced their Trainer IDs. After scribbling down their information, the receptionist produced two visitor badges and matching lanyards. "The computer room is down the hall and to the right," she said. "Enjoy your stay."

Edited June 14, 2018 by Konuju

[MELON LORD]

IC: Jared Winters/Lachina Adaon

 

Jared hummed, glancing at his Pokétch. "Don't suppose either of you have something closer to the Pokénav or Holo Caster, do you? I can download local maps, but the screen on this thing is tiny." 

 

Lachian grinned, striking a pose with her arms extended into a V-shape. "I sure am, Zoe! Never you fear, I'll help keep us safe!" Never mind the fact that my combat training was only basic stuff, she thought. "So, Colleen, right? Do we wanna go see if one of those taxis is available?"

 

IC: Yamamoto Aori

 

Aori fumbled the two Pokéballs off of her belt and released her Pokémon. "These are my Pokémon," she said. "Hana is the Bulbasaur." She pointed to the Bulbasaur. "And this is Yuri." She scooped up the Eevee. "It is nice to meet you."

 

IC: David Michaels

 

The security guard shook his head. "Nah we were having trouble with all of our systems until she came to visit. She was short, though, even for a kid her age I think. She had that, what's it called, with the white hair and red eyes? Albino, that's it. Pale skin, too. She went upstairs, spent maybe half an hour looking around, then left. All our ghost troubles cleared up after that."

 

IC

 

"The anomaly occurred again today."

 

"That's, what, six times now?"

 

"That we've seen."

 

"Right, it might be happening when we're not using the station as well. . . We should really tell someone."

 

"We should wait."

 

"Yeah? You think we'll catch whoever's behind it?"

 

"They will make a mistake eventually."

 

"Alright, then. I've gotta run, have a good night."

 

 

"You as well."

Edited June 16, 2018 by MELON LORD

[Konuju]

IC: Dahlia Seaton/Zoe Llyan - Streets, Lumiose City

Dahlia fished her Pokégear out of her bag and held it out to Jared. "Will this work? The screen's not too much bigger, but it's the best I've got."

 

At the sight of Lachina's pose, Zoe looked like she was about to have a heart attack out of excitement. "Collie, I take back everything bad I ever said about your friends!" she declared. "With an Aura Master and a Power Ranger on our team, we'll be unstoppable! That dastardly Team Flare doesn't stand a chance against us!" The young girl turned towards the street and yelled at the top of her lungs. "You hear that, Team Flare?! You'd better watch your backs, because we're coming for you!"

 

IC: Shannon Willows - Docks, Vermilion City

"Hana and Yuri. Those are lovely names." Shannon ruffled the Eevee's fur and patted the Bulbasaur on the head. Salix poked his head out again, sniffing curiously at the other Eevee. Taking notice, Shannon scooped up Salix in her arms and held him at eye level with Yuri. "You want to say hi, Salix?"

 

Salix let out a small yip in greeting.

[Flipz]

OOC: Jam with Blade

 

IC: Lumiose Gym

 

"Well…" Lucia laughed awkwardly at the question. "I wouldn't say it was teaching so to speak. More like… battling me and hoping that it would be a good way to practice like that. Except for the fact that my Pokémon weren't really… suited to Single battles back then at all." The Rocket scratched her head with a sheepish smile. "It might've worked for like, anyone else, though."

 

Clemont tilted his head, stroking his goatee gently as he tried to recall the meeting. “Viridian City…oh! That’s right, with Mr. Zyther and the iterative sub-circuits! Really impressive technology. You were his daughter, correct? I think you had a Bulbasaur, an Audino, and an Igglybuff, if I recall?”

 

"Close; they were actually a Chikorita, Audino, and Chansey." The woman gave a smile at the explanation. "Otherwise that's right." Lucia glanced over and gestured to introduce Jamie. "This is Jamie, we’re…” She paused for a moment, not sure the proper way to introduce her. Best friends? Partners? Girlfriends? “…We’re visiting Kalos together."

 

“Oh, my apologies, and welcome to Kalos!” Clemont smiled and turned to address Jamie. “I’m Clemont, Leader of the Lumiose City Gym.” The Gym Leader reached into a pocket and pulled out a pair of badges in the shape of a shield struck by twin lightning bolts. “Listen, I hate to impose, but would either of you be interested in helping me try to recreate something I saw in the leaked footage from One Island? I know it’s not a traditional Gym Challenge, but under the circumstances…well, it’s probably the closest we could get.”

[Metal Gear Minun]

IC: Jamie Arthur - Prism Tower

 

 

"Ooh! Ooh! OOOH! Ooh! Ooh! Pick me! Pick me!" Jamie said raising her hand.

 

There was a lot of hero things that happened there. She didn’t even know what Clemont was suggesting and she wanted in. Beat up Instances? Build suits of armor? Whatever that thing James and Lance did?

 

“I was at One Island! Pick me!”

Edited June 18, 2018 by Metal Gear Minun

[MELON LORD]

IC: Jared Winters

 

"Thanks, Dahlia." Jared took the device and quickly found a map of Lumiose City. "It looks like the agency is actually pretty close by. Here, this way." He began walking, glancing at the map occasionally as he eyed the surrounding area.

Edited June 18, 2018 by MELON LORD

[Parugi]

IC - Executive Scott Stone - Lavender Tower, Lavender Town:

 

"Short, albino, affinity for Ghost-Types . . ." Scott wrote the description down on his notepad. "Anything else? Do you happen to know where she headed?"

 

 

IC - Blackskull - Blackskull's Office, The Alamo:

 

Silently, Blackskull reached for the handle of some sort of cabinet built into the wall. He opened it, revealing a tea tray with a kettle, teacups, mixing spoons, and a bowl of sugar. He pulled it out, set it on the table, and poured a cup for himself, into which he dropped three sugar cubes. "Tea?"

 

 

IC - Emmerich Coleman - Train, Blackthorn City:

 

As they moved to get off of the train, Emmerich lagged behind. He took a moment to himself, pondering Ryan and Chloe's conversation, before sighing and following after them, out of the train and onto the platform.

 

 

IC - Sonja Baron/Kyle Eston - Battle Cart, Train:

 

As they felt the train rumbling to a stop, Sonja nodded slowly, brushing her eyes with the back of her hand. "We're going to do what we can, the best that we can," she said. Her voice was quiet, but accepting of the situation--emotional, but not angry. "For better or worse."

 

"And we're going to do it together," Kyle said. He released his wrist, reaching a hand out. "Let's just make that promise now, while we can. For Chloe and Ryan, too. Whatever happens, we've got each other's backs."

 

Ray nodded, placing his hand on top of Kyle's. There was a brief pause before Sonja did, as well. A small smile infiltrated all of their expressions. The weight on their shoulders seemed to lighten somewhat. After a moment, they dropped their hands, rising to their feet. Kyle copied Sonja, wiping his face on his sleeve. "I guess we'd better get going, then. Not much further to get to Ford's base from here, right?"

[Blessed Blade]

-==IC: Jenny -- Heahea City==-

"Nah, I think I'd realize if it was that." Jenny let out a small giggle. "Like, I remember some things, and this didn't seem quite like that? I dunno. It was weird, though!" She took a small pause as she thought about things for a moment. "So, what's the goal for today? Did we have anything planned to do?"

 

-==IC: Natalie -- Celadon City==-

 

Natalie finished scrolling through the list on her Poké Gear and sighed as she looked up to the first message Guinevere had written.

 

"Nope, no luck. The chaos of the fight must've made me forget to get their new number." She said as she fidgeted with her hair. When Guin finished writing the second message, she nodded in acknowledgement. "Alright, let's do that, then head out quickly."

 

-==IC: Ryan -- Vermillion Docks==-

 

As Ryan watched Shannon and the children interact, he checked his beeping Poké Gear quickly. He raised an eyebrow at the convenience of the message - and seemed rather impressed at the circumstances of everything. He sent off a quick response in the affirmative and looked up at the others.

 

"Alright, looks like we're headed for the branch here. Everyone ready to go?" The man asked the three others as he pocketed the device again for the moment.

 

-==IC: Ray -- Train==-

 

"Shouldn't be, I think." Ray said with a nod, as he thought about the terrain of the area. "The biggest thing will be the hike from here to Mount Silver, I'd say." He bit his lip as he suddenly wondered if they knew the precise location of the building there. He figured it wouldn't be too hard to find, and time-wise he felt it'd be quick to get to.

 

After a moment more of thinking, Ray began to walk back to where they had left the others. When he got there, however, he realized that the others weren't there. "They left the train already... hopefully not too long ago." He glanced back to the others and gave a smile. "I'm sure we'll catch up soon, though."

 

-==IC: Chloe -- Blackthorn Station==-

 

"To be fair, growing up the biggest confusing thing was that I had two moms, since I didn't know the reason why Cassie went into hiding was to protect my sister. It was only like four years ago when things really started to get like this. And the rest was like, between six months ago and last month. Since then, things have actually kinda gotten chill again? Well, as chill as they can be in this situation..." Chloe took a breath as she finished speaking again, then bit her lip as she realized that she had been talking a lot recently.

 

-==IC: Olivia -- Lumiose City==-

 

Olivia followed the two in unusual quietness. She seemed to be preoccupied by something as she glanced around at the buildings quizzically each time they passed by one. The trip to the agency didn't seem to have what she was looking for, however, and the woman sighed as quietly as she could, as she searched on her own Poké Gear for anything that might help her search.

 

-==IC: Colleen -- Lumiose City==-

 

Colleen flushed red as she glanced around to make sure no-one was suddenly taking an interest in a long-dead criminal organization. To her relief, however, most of the people seemed to be paying attention to their own thing. There was only one exception of someone in the distance who exclaimed "Heck yeah! That's hecka good!" to the comment.

 

Colleen opted to keep the conversation quiet on her part, as she navigated the city around to the address on the piece of paper. As she looked at the name of the cafe, she suddenly realized that it was the famous red cafe near the Pokémon Center. "We're almost there." She called back to the other two as she glanced back to check on them.

[Konuju]

IC: Shannon Willows - Docks, Vermilion City

"I'm ready if you two are." Shannon smiled at the kids, not wanting to pull Salix away from his potential new friend just yet.

 

IC: Zoe Llyan - Approaching Scarlet Café, Lumiose City

Zoe hummed merrily to herself as she followed her sister and the Power Ranger. The streets twisted and turned, and had Zoe not been here before on summer vacation she would have been amazed by the Kalosian culture that seemed to seep out of every street corner. Not that she would have been able to find her way around by herself, but that was what she had Collie for.

 

When Collie announced they were almost there, Zoe ran up to try and catch a glimpse of the cafe . . . only to find that it had hidden itself amidst the countless shops that lined the street. It was like the mall back in Keturi City, only the entire city was the mall. "Are we gonna get any food at the café?" she asked her sister as she continued to look around for their destination.

 

IC: Dahlia Seaton - Streets, Lumiose City

Dahlia and Olivia walked in silence as Jared led the way to the detective agency. While taking in the sights of Lumiose City, Dahlia found her thoughts turning toward their leader. She knew the missing Flabébé wasn't the priority, but Jared seemed almost angry at the mere suggestion of taking time to look for Fiora. Jared's warning from the trip back from Keturi came back to her: that if he ever felt ruthlessly out of character, it was his alter ego Mercury. Was this Jared leading them, or Mercury?

 

It suddenly occurred to Dahlia that she didn't know Jared well enough to judge how unusual his behavior was. Lachina had commented on his no-nonsense attitude, but Dahlia had barely known him for a day or two. Would she be able to tell the difference? Looking around, she realized that she had no clue where she was. All the streets looked the same, and if something bad happened, she wouldn't be able to find her way back to the other group.

 

Closing her eyes, Dahlia pushed her paranoia from her mind. She wouldn't like it if people judged her based on her inability to control her powers, and Jared wouldn't like it if he knew what she was thinking. Xander had named him leader -- and like any good operative, Dahlia had to trust in her leader.

 

When she opened her eyes, she noticed Olivia was intensely focused on her Pokégear. "What's up?" she asked her sister.

 

IC: Ryan Sanders - Train Station, Blackthorn City

Chloe did not seem to stop talking as they walked through the station. Ryan was only half-paying attention as he navigated their way to the exit. The brisk mountain air swept past Ryan as he stepped outside, sending a small shiver down his spine and causing him to lose track of Chloe's story entirely. He was used to the humid forests of Fortree, and the cooler temperature in spite of the heat of summer surprised him. It was after the initial shock wore off that he realized Chloe had stopped talking. With a brief nod to the girl to give the impression that he hadn't completely ignored her, Ryan turned around and waited for their other companions to come out of the station. Emmerich was right behind them, and it didn't take too long for Sonja, Ray, and Kyle to arrive.

 

"So this is the City of Dragons," Ryan said, looking around at the bustling streets. Tourist shops had set up their wares within plain view of the train station, eagerly waiting to woo wide-eyed visitors with Dratini plushes and antique dragon charms. The architecture gave the atmosphere of a quaint little village, although the city clearly spanned the entire mountain bowl. "I bet Evan and Gnip would love this place."

 

The group took in the view for a moment, then Ryan turned his attention to Sonja and Ray. "So do you know how to get there from here?" he asked, not wanting to say their destination out loud in case anyone was listening.

[Flipz]

-==IC: Clemont==-

 

“You were?” Clemont and the referee exclaimed in unison.

 

The referee recovered first. “That’s amazing! Were you in one of those robot suit contraptions? What were those things you were fighting? How did you--?”

 

“Whoa, easy there, Sawyer.” Clemont bowed respectfully to Jamie. “I’m honored by your visit. The bravery everyone showed there was truly commendable, I can’t imagine what it was like living through such a disaster in person.” The Gym Leader momentarily drifted off into thought, grimacing at whatever he’d imagined before dragging his attention back to reality. “Anyway, I do greatly appreciate your assistance in this matter. I guess the first thing I’d like to ask is, as someone who was there, what exactly happened to those three Pokémon out there, from your perspective?”

[Dr. Hidaka]

IC: Lafoyae Belrose

Affinity for Ghost-Types.... Lafoyae thought, considering that to be a disadvantage for her and her Pokèmon, unless she counted on her psychic abilities to help her. Despite that, it was a challenge that the Assassin would overcome when she got there. Sighing, she waited for more details to come from this man...

IC: Evan Tierra

Evan thought for a moment, considering what they could do in such a new locale. "Well, Jenny, I don't know about you, but I could definitely use a new look." The man remarked. "It's a bit hotter here than I'd like. After that, we can get familiar with Heahea City. Supposedly the people here treasure visitors, so that should be a snap." He then smiled slyly. "Does that sound like a plan, Jen-Jen?"

[MELON LORD]

IC: Yamamoto Aori

 

Yuri greeted her male counterpart amicably. Aori smiled softly, petting the Eevee's fur. "What are we doing after meeting the person?" she asked, glancing at Hikari.

 

IC: Jared Winters - Looker Bereau

 

"This is it," Jared said as they approached a simple-looking building in one of the city's many alleys.

 

IC: Lachina Adaon

 

The ranger tried not to look too impressed with the city, but she couldn't help a bit of awe shining in her eyes. As they neared the cafe, she looked to the youngest member of the group.

 

"Zoe, I know you're excited to be in Kalos, but remember that we're on an important mission. It's okay to have fun when we're not actively doing anything, but right now we're following leads, understand?" Her voice was stern, but not harsh or reprimanding.

 

Despite her tone, however, her stomach growled loudly as she finished her sentence. She flushed a bit, scratching the back of her head. "Though, I guess there wasn't exactly a meal service on the plane. . ."

 

IC: David Michaels

 

"All the graves and everything were moved to the Memory House when we remodeled this place. I guess it makes sense that's where she'd take them." He frowned as something clicked. "I guess I hadn't really put the two events together in my mind. Sorry for giving you all the runaround on this. She didn't say where she was headed afterwards, though."

[Metal Gear Minun]

IC: Lohe Mahina - Blackskull's Office

 

Lohe stared at the liquid that Blackskull poured into his cup. Each time he popped another cube of sugar, he looked at the man across from him.

 

One.

 

Two.

 

Three.

 

That was an above average amount of sugar to intake. The man was a sweet tooth. Probably had higher than average blood sugar content. A man built of quality material.

 

"Do you have coffee?" Lohe asked, his eyes falling back into a sleepy torpor.

 

 

IC: Jamie Arthur - Prism Tower

“You got me, it all happened so fast,” she said, crossing her arms and closing her eyes, and generally trying to look thoughtful. “We were fighting the Instances ourselves, so I was not paying much attention when they transformed.”

“That lady’s Magnezone I think transformed first. Then Uncle Lance showed up looking completely different from normal. And then Ryan’s Tyranitar transformed. I remember seeing rainbows covering them when they transformed.”

 

 

IC: James Arthur - Route 4

 

James stood still, with a bead of sweat rolling down the side of his face. A barreling body charged at him. It grew closer and closer, but James did not move. The mass threw itself at James, with an arm raised to strike him.

 

With great speed, Lancelot intercepted the attack. The blow bounced off the Scizor’s body, leaving him no worse for wear. But also, not transformed.

 

“Still nothing,” James scratched his head, trying to massage out some sort of answer to what the answer.

 

An hour had passed with absolutely no progress.  His latest idea recalled that James had been in danger when the transformation happened. So Gawain was called upon to be their artificial source of danger. The Swampert had been confused, but he agreed if it would help. Sadly, it did not.

 

“Why, can I not get this to work?” James said.

 

Celebi was laying on a branch, looking down at the proceedings, with a vague air of amusement.

 

James wasn’t going to find his answer. Not here, at any rate. She hadn’t figured out the solution, but she had figured out the problem. The same problems he always had.

 

Too bad, she couldn’t tell him. No telepathy was a pain.

 

James bit his lip and clenched his right fist. He had promised a lot to set up this meeting, and he didn’t have it. 

 

“There is nothing else for it,” James said, taking a deep breath to try and calm himself. “If we do not have it, we do not have it.”

 

Lancelot reacted similarly to his master. The Scizor could remember the feeling of the transformation, visualize it in his head, but could not fathom the answer. 

 

 

IC: Guinevere/Natalie - Celadon City

 

Guinevere looked at the entrance to the building before her with some trepidation. She’d only been there a couple of times, during James’s tenure with Rocket. And humans paid more attention to their own kind than to Pokémon. Still, the worry that she might be recognized by somebody. That would prove inconvenient.

 

Natalie walked up behind Guinevere, holding the Gardevoir's Poké Ball in hand. With her free hand, she tested her newly dyed hair while still out of sight. "This could probably be a little more worn or something, but it's the best I could do on short notice." The woman said quietly to Guinevere as she eyed the building herself. "Not a perfect disguise and relies on some assumptions and not having seen Yuki recently, but… I think it works for what I remember of seeing them in the past."

 

It was about as good as Guinevere could’ve hoped for, but that was a very low bar to clear. As long as they kept the conversation short, Guinevere figured they should be fine. If she had telepathy, she would’ve had more options, but this was the best they had. The pair started walking towards the entrance.

 

The reception’s decor was as sterile as could be achieved without mass quantities of sanitizer. The walls were bare save for a black and white analog clock. The only object of note was the giant ‘R’ on the floor, the sole reminder of who owned the government.

 

The receptionist’s bright-eyed look was a contrast to the bland state of the room. The man had a bright smile shining through a well trimmed beard, as if it had been hand-picked to sell his organization to anyone who walked in.

 

“Welcome to Team Rocket’s local government branch,” he said with a voice much too cheery for a government employee. “How may I help you today?”

 

Guinevere stood to a side, leaning on her crutch and on the counter. All she could do right now was watch.

 

"I'm here to visit Gerald Hikari." Natalie said with a smile as she approached the desk. She did her best to keep her story straight in her head - it wasn't hard since she knew Yuki from before, but she hoped things worked.

 

“Visitation, I see,” the receptionist said while opening up a window on his computer. “Are you immediate family? If not, you will have to wait to be put on a list of approved visitors.”

 

"Yes, I'm his daughter."

 

“I see, I see,” the man said nodding, clicking and typing on the computer.  “We can get you verified pretty quick. Get you on your way. Could I get a name please?”

 

"My name is Yuki Hikari." Natalie gave a polite smile, as it -was- the name they used almost exclusively in the old days.

 

“Yuki… Hikari,” he said punching in keys. Guinevere tightened her hold on the crutch. If this didn’t work, they would be delayed for a while.

 

“Let’s see… oh,” he said looking away from the screen and up and down at Natalie. “Ah um, sorry, your records must be out of date. Would you like to update your ID today, ma’am?”

 

"Oh, thank you, but that's okay. I still have some things I need to prepare for that." Natalie gave a thankful smile at the politeness of the man.

 

“Ah, I see. We’ll be glad to set that up when you’re ready,” he said, writing down a note to remind “Yuki Hikari” of her appointment to update her records. “Let me check the status of your father, so we can get the ball rolling.”

 

Guinevere didn’t sigh with relief, but she was relieved. The plan should work from here.

 

“Huh,” the receptionist said scratching his beard.

 

Thought too soon?

 

“I’m sorry ma’am, but your father seems to have been extradited to Unova. I can look up where his destination was, but he’s not in the country anymore,” he said, making a frown that was as bright as his smile.

 

"That would be great." Natalie had briefly frowned at the first mention, but then smiled when the receptionist offered a solution.

 

The Gardevoir feigned a frown. Really easily because it was mightily inconvenient but still feigned because they knew that going it.

 

“Okay, so your father was sent… straight to the capital. Black City, direct flight. You’ll need to go there if you’ll want to see your father,” he said turning the screen around for the pair to see.

 

Natalie quickly read the details - that Gerald arrived at Chroma County's jail roughly two weeks earlier. She quickly memorized the important stuff as best as she could and gave a pleasant smile. "Alright, thank you so much."

 

The receptionist turned the monitor back around. “Are you going to try and visit right away? We can set up a time to update your passport right now if you want.”

 

"Thank you again, but that's alright. I think it's going to be a while before that's ready, sadly. But thank you for the offer." Natalie flashed a smile, as she was admittedly impressed by this receptionist.

 

“Well when you’re ready,” he said pulling out a business card and a pen. “Just call us with this number… here,” he said circling the relevant phone number.

 

"Alright. Thank you again so much." Natalie took the business card once he held it out and smiled. "Have a nice day!"

 

The receptionist waved a good-bye, with that same salesman smile he had greeted them with.

 

Guinevere followed Natalie out of the building. That… went as well as possible. Like, seriously, no horrible incident? Guinevere would be disappointed if it weren’t so gosh darn convenient. She almost forgot what doing something without something going terribly wrong felt like.

Edited June 21, 2018 by Metal Gear Minun

[Flipz]

-==IC: Clemont==-

 

"Rainbows…" Clemont’s brow furrowed. “Sawyer, you know where my office is? Go get my book on foreign legends, should be on the middle shelf.” As the referee scurried off, Clemont took a moment to explain himself. “There’s a legend -- if I’m remembering correctly -- about a Pokémon whose wings glimmer with a rainbow gleam. It might be worth looking into -- any lead helps.”

 

The Gym Leader stroked his goatee once again, pacing as he thought aloud. “Okay, let’s start from the top again. There’s still a lot we don’t know about Pokémon evolution in general, but the current consensus is that it usually represents some level of concurrent epiphany in a Pokémon’s physical and emotional development. While some species evolve in response to the special radiation produced by certain kinds of stones, this tends to be an expression of unstable genetic structure in the original species, something not documented in any of the species we’ve witnessed evolving; furthermore, no recognizable evolutionary stones were seen anywhere in the leaked footage, and there is precedent for certain individuals of stone-evolving species undergoing evolution without the relevant stone, indicating that evolution stones are not inherently necessary to either evolutionary process. Thus, the logical course of action is still battling…”

 

Clemont paused, as if suddenly remembering his guests were still present. He briefly consulted his Holo Caster for research notes before finding the report he was looking for and showing it to the pair. “Right, I should explain. A lot of the leading experts on evolution -- like Sinnoh’s Professor Rowan and our own Professor Sycamore -- say that human bonds with a Pokémon can greatly accelerate the process of evolution, and since the most well-documented way to grow those bonds is battle, I’ve been battling with my Magnezone all morning to see if we can forge our battle bond enough to trigger this new stage of evolution.” The Gym Leader smiled at his challenger. “Which is where you come in, if you’re still up for the challenge.” Clemont looked to Lucia. “I also wouldn’t mind a rematch with you, Lucia, if you’re willing. I don’t normally specialize in Double Battles, but the additional data couldn’t hurt, and might even prove to be exactly what Magnezone and I need. Would you be alright with that?”

[Blessed Blade]

-==IC: Olivia -- Lumiose City==-

 

"Huh?" Olivia looked up at Dahlia's question. "Oh, nothing much, just--" At that moment, Jared's proclamation caused her to take in the building. "... this is the detective agency?" The Rocket didn't seem to really be convinced, so she quickly double checked on her own map. "... hm. Odd place for a detective to hang out, isn't it? Seems a bit... run down, dontcha think?"

 

-==IC: Colleen -- Lumiose City, different place==-

 

"Food's a good idea." Colleen agreed with a nod. "We might be here to search for leads, but focus is best when our stomachs are full. Lucina taught me that lesson well." The aura wielder motioned to the others as she walked up toward the crimson café and pushed the door open. Inside seemed like a perfectly normal café, but the atmosphere felt rather... ominous to her. She tried to shrug it off the best she could, as she walked up to the counter to begin to order things. In the meantime, as she tried to be as nonchalant about it as possible, she began to scan the auras of the people present in that room outside of Lachina and Zoe.

 

-==IC: Lucia -- Lumiose City, but in the past==-

 

"Sounds like a plan to me." Lucia grinned as she reached for her Meganium's Poké Ball. She hesitated, however. It sounded like she'd need as much power as she possibly could get, especially after the last fight. She moved her hand to grab her Gothorita's Poké Ball instead and then threw the capsule forward, the psychic Pokémon giving a very confused look upon being sent out.

 

-==IC: Ryan -- Vermillion City, not Lumiose City for once==-

 

"Hm." Ryan admittedly hadn't gotten that far. "Not sure yet, but we have some time to plan that out." The Rocket gave a reassuring smile, as he began to lead the way to the Rocket Branch's outpost. He couldn't think of anything in particular to do, but he knew there had to be something.

 

-==IC: Jenny -- Heahea City==-

 

"Sure, sounds like a good idea to me." Jenny smiled brightly and thought over what outfit could work. "Hmm, well there's one type of outfit that could work. Do you know where the closest clothing store is? I wanna go see if they have what I'm thinking of now!"

[Metal Gear Minun]

IC: Jamie Arthur - Prism Tower

 

Jamie didn’t wait for Clemont to finish talking before pulling out a Poke Ball and slamming it to the ground.

 

Pelleas stretched his body. He didn’t feel his powers, but he could recognize when Jamie wanted to fight. If she wanted him to fight, she only need point him in the right direction.

 

“I was waiting for you to ask,” Jamie said, sporting a happy grin on her face. “I do not know much about all that stuff, but I am always ready for a battle.”

[Konuju]

IC: Dahlia Seaton - Looker Bureau, Lumiose City
Their sudden arrival caught Dahlia off guard. "O-oh? Uh . . . yeah, it does look a little worse for wear. Maybe there just hasn't been a lot of crime in the city for the past several years?" The moment the words were out of her mouth, Dahlia realized how silly they sounded. They were in the middle of the biggest city in Kalos. Big cities always had crime. Then again, that's what the police were for. She cast a glance over at Jared. "Are you sure we've got the right place?" she asked with a hint of hesitation in her voice.
 
IC: Zoe Llyan - Scarlet Café, Lumiose City
Zoe tugged on her sister's sleeve. "We should order croissants! You can't go to Kalos without getting a croissant! Lachina, have you ever been to Kalos before? The croissants here are --" she cleared her throat and her voice suddenly took on a surprisingly good Kalosian accent. "-- très bien!"

 

IC: Alex Lockwood - Scarlet Café Underground Portion, Lumiose City

Alex and his cousin chatted for a while longer as they slowly sipped their cups of coffee. It didn't seem like long before both their cups were empty, but when Alex looked at the clock he was surprised at how long they'd been there. "Well then," he said, standing up to stretch. "Thank you for showing me this little hidden gem. Is there anything else we should see in the city before we head home?"

 

IC: Shannon Willows - Vermillion City

"We'll probably have to get a hotel here," Shannon said. "I don't know if we'll be able to catch a boat back to Four Island today by the time Ryan's meeting's done." Although she did not voice it, Shannon secretly wished they wouldn't have to go back to Four Island. Sure, she had just moved into a new room, but the thought of being on the same island as her mother sickened her. Swallowing her bile, she looked back at the children. "Did you girls stay in the refugee center last night? A hotel will be much nicer than that. We can get you two a hot bath and some clean clothes."

 

A sudden thought struck her mind and she leaned close to Ryan, whispering into his ear. "How much money do you have with you? I don't want to promise these girls something fancy if we can't afford it."

[Dr. Hidaka]

IC: Evan Tierra, Heahea City

"Well, I don't know where it is, but....." Evan remarked, posing as he spoke. "I am sure the people here are friendly enough to help out two tourists like us! So enough chitter-chatter! Let's go-go-go!" The two hurriedly readied themselves and made their way out of the hotel, looking around as they walked about. No sooner then they had move out further into the city, that they came across a man facing the Pokemon Center, wearing white lab coat that looked torn up and dirtied, but still serviceable. "Hey, could you help us, sir?" The Hero inquired cheerfully, hoping to catch the man's attention. "We're tourists and we're looking for a clothing store. Mind helping us out?" The man turned, and to the Plasma Agent's shock, the bespectacled man wasn't wearing a shirt under the beat-up lab coat of his.

"Alola to you, visitors!" The man said cheefully, raising his hands in front of his face, and then separating them. "The name's Kukui, as in Professor Kukui, and I'd be glad to show you the way, provided you give me your names?"

Evan could not help but be struck by how much energy this man radiated. From his grin, to his casual way of dress, the man couldn't help but feel at ease around him. "The name's Evan Tierra!" The Hero said, imitating the gesture Kukui had performed. "Alola to you, Kukui!"

[MELON LORD]

IC: Jared Winters

 

The silver-haired trainer shrugged. "That's what the map says, at least. Let's head inside." He didn't wait for any argument before opening the door to the "Looker Bureau."

 

IC: Lachina Adaon

 

The Ranger chuckled lightly. "Not bad. I don't really speak Kalosian at all. Maybe you could teach me."

 

IC: Emma Lockwood

 

"Well, I did say we should take you shopping. You've had that outfit for, what, six years now? Maybe it's time to retire it for something new, eh?" She stood and left a tip on the table before stepping out into the main room once more. Instantly, her eyes were drawn to the three girls standing near the counter. They wouldn't have stood out except that one of them was dressed like the Rangers you could find wandering the wilder routes of Kalos. She paused, subtly pointing them out to Alex.

 

"What do you think's going on?"

 

IC: Yamamoto Aori

 

The young islander nodded. "We did, but it was not bad. Our clothes are clean, but they used to belong to somebody else..." She reached up to pluck at her sleeve as she bit her lip. "A bath would be nice."

 

IC

 

"Sir?" Jason approached Sycamore as the professor was about to head up to his lab.

 

"Yes, Jason, what is it?"

 

"The Froakie is missing again." The aide's voice was calm as he said it. Sycamore put a hand to his forehead and sighed.

 

"Of course he is. Well, let's do a sweep of the lab, then." He glanced up the stairs. "I guess I"ll have to make that call some other time. . ." He turned away from the stairs and began the search.

[Konuju]

IC: Zoe Llyan - Scarlet Café, Lumiose City

Zoe assumed an air of importance. "Worry not, mon amie. Professor Zoe will teach you everything there is to know about Kalosian!"

 

IC: Alex Lockwood - Scarlet Café, Lumiose City

Alex easily recognized the Ranger uniform, but didn't think much of it until Emma brought it to his attention. "Maybe she's taking a coffee break from her Ranger duties?" he said with a shrug. "I don't know, is it that unusual to see a Ranger around here?" He did find it odd that the Ranger's companions were in civilian clothing, but they were probably good friends catching up in a café.

[Flipz]

-==IC: Clemont==-

 

“All right, then. Let the battle--”

 

“Okay, so I found it, but I don’t know if this is going to be any good…it’s just a bunch of nonsense about Ho-oh’s feathers and the purity of your heart and some Pokémon called Marshadow? Honestly, the whole thing reads like some kind of really awful half-baked anime movie tie-in.” The green-haired referee looked up from his reading to see Jamie’s and Lucia’s Pokémon already out on the field. “Uh…did I miss something?”

 

“Not at all, Sawyer,” Clemont said, trying in vain to suppress his grin. “We were just about to start these ladies’ Gym Challenge. A Double Battle, just to see if it sparks anything new.”

 

The referee’s mouth flapped open and closed like a fish for a few moments before he hurriedly set the book aside and assumed his position on the midfield sidelines. “Right. The rules of this Gym Battle…uh…” He glanced at Clemont. “What rules are you going to go with?”

 

“Tag Battle, Double Battle format. The battle will be concluded once one side has no more Pokémon able to battle. As per usual, as Gym Leader I will not be permitted to switch Pokémon. As for the challengers--”

 

“Shouldn’t you have a second Pokémon for the format?”

 

“Huh?” Belatedly, the Gym Leader realized he had not sent out a second team member. “Oh…right. My second Pokémon will be…will be…”

 

As if on cue, an enormous blue-and-black feline leaped through the doors behind Clemont, padding over to the Gym Leader with a surprisingly gentle gait for its ferocious appearance and melodramatic entrance. The Luxray leaned against his Trainer and gently butted his head against him affectionately.

 

Clemont smiled as his own Pokémon made his decision for him. “My second Pokémon will be Luxray,” he informed the duo facing him. He paused for a moment in consideration. “Given the circumstances, it would be a waste of time to draw out the battle beyond these two Pokémon, so to keep the numbers even for the challenge substitutions will not be allowed on either side.”

 

“Excellent! Now then, the rules of this Gym Battle…” The referee trailed off at the glare he received from the Gym Leader and his Pokémon alike. “…have already been reviewed. Let the Gym Battle…commence!”

[Metal Gear Minun]

IC: Guinevere - Stacy’s Mansion

 

Don Leodegrance and Guinevere were hugging in the entrance hall to Stacy’s mansion. One of Stacy’s employees was chasing out some of the Grimer that had come with Guinevere and Natalie back to the mansion. The smell was only bearble by those who had lived in a sewer.

 

I will be back soon, Papa, Guinevere said breaking of the hug.

 

Leodegrance had a sad smile on his face. It had been nice to be able to visit Guin, even if it was just for a little while. His smile faded after a bit, and he started to talk again.

 

Hey, princess, I got a favor to ask.

 

Guinevere looked at the Muk quizzically, What is it, Papa?

 

The Muk’s slimy hand rubbed the top of the mound of filth he called a head. Y’see, right around when you showed up here, a fellow washed up here and we’ve been integrating him into our gang. It’s not going so well. He… well… here I’ll bring him here, he said sending one of the remaining Grimer into the sewers.

 

A minute passed with some small talk, before the Grimer returned, a second one following him. The second fellow was green, with a yellow lip. The green Grimer had a small bit of scowl on his face.

 

You’re sending me with her? he said, with a tone of disbelief. She looks like such a priss.

 

Leodegrance glared at the Grimer who backed down.

 

He could use some manners. Do you think you could help?

 

Guinevere looked at the Grimer for a moment before smiling.

 

Do not worry, I do not think he will be a problem? He reminds me of… I think we will get along fine.

 

Leodegrance looked straight Guin for a moment before nodding. Thanks, I wouldn’t ask you if I didn’t think you could do it. Oh! By the way, got you a gift.

 

The other Grimer who had arrived with the green Grimer, revealed a pink backpack. 

 

It’s secondhand and could use some love, but I think you could use something to hold stuff if well… It’s just a good thing to have, alright?

 

She didn’t like how it looked. It was way too pink, the Skitty head that made up the top pocket was tacky and the paint was faded and peeling and yet…

 

I love it, thank you Papa.

Edited June 30, 2018 by Metal Gear Minun

[Flipz]

Lumiose Gym (Jam)

 

Lucia took a defensive stance as she analyzed the two electric types in front of her. The opponents both looked a lot stronger, but she eyed the Magnezone intently. Powers or not, that steel body would hurt a lot more than the Luxray would if it landed a body slam on them.

 

"Alright, Gothara, attack the Magnezone, quickly!" Lucia pointed out. As the Gothorita ran toward her target, the trainer glanced over at Jamie. "We should focus on one target, I think; it would make things easier in case Clemont decides to team up on us instead."

 

“Pelleas, attack the Magnezone from above!” Jamie said, causing the Heracross to spread his wings.

 

Normally flying above an electric-type was a bad idea. But without electric attacks, certainly it wouldn’t be able to fight it off. Pelleas’s wings buzzed hard taking the Heracross into flight. He outpaced his ally, trying to force the Magnezone into dealing with two vertical angles.

 

“Now, Magnezone, try Discharge once more!” Clemont commanded, hoping this time the twin-headed assault might push it past whatever was holding it back. “Luxray, since you can’t use Swift--”

 

The Luxray in question half-turned to look back at his Trainer, a gleam in his eye; for a moment, Clemont could have sworn he’d seen the creature smirk.

 

Clemont chuckled. “All right then, Luxray, go for it, I trust you.”

 

The feline Electric-type lunged forward in a lightning-like zig-zag pattern. It stopped short of Gothara, whirling its tail rapidly just as it would for Clemont’s suggested move…but then, in a maneuver more befitting a Dark-type than an Electric-type, it crouched, swooping its tail down to the sandy battlefield floor and flinging it into the Psychic-type’s eyes. Leaping forward from its crouch, the Luxray continued whirling its tail in the same circular motion, trying to trip the Gothorita on his way past.

 

The gambit was not lost on Clemont. “Magnezone, new plan!” he shouted. “Fly up, but let the Heracross get above you, then hold.” The Gym leader adjusted his glasses as he watched the field, hoping he’d calculated the correct trajectories.

 

“I can hear you!” Jamie shouted at Clemont’s shouting. “Pelleas, dive low!” The Heracross shut his wings to let himself fall, before opening them again as he neared the ground. The distance was not so great between them now, so the Heracross pulled back his arm for a punch.

 

The Gym Leader’s glasses gleamed. “So you can,” the Gym Leader acknowledged, “but overheard orders aren’t all there is to a plan. Magnezone, now!”

 

As its Trainer had ordered, the Magnezone halted everything--including its hovering. Nearly four hundred pounds of steel dropped directly down--immediately above where Gothara now stood. Pelleas’ punch connected, sending the Steel-type spinning, but that alone was not enough to entirely avert its course.

 

Gothara felt herself falling not long after the blinding sand attack hit. However, she decided to grab on to the offending tail that had tripped her up, taking her best guess at where it was. Once she confirmed that she had grabbed hold of the tail, the Gothorita began to climb further toward the Luxray's torso, unwittingly moving to pull herself out of the way of the death saucer.

 

Of course, avoiding one danger did not remove her from the other. Stumbling somewhat under the weight of his unwanted passenger, the Luxray reversed course, his lithe form letting him snap his strong jaws aggressively at Gothara. While the angles were not quite correct to let the bite connect, it had not been his primary plan; once the Magnezone crashed down to earth with a clang, the Luxray leaped off of it, twisting itself in midair to make sure the Psychic-type would bear the brunt of the landing blow.

 

Jamie smiled, this battle was getting fun. “Let’s punch him again, Pelleas!” she shouted. The Heracross didn’t fly this time. He wasn’t far enough away to warrant spreading his wings. Pelleas not so secretly wished he could have his fighting type moves again as he ran towards the Magnezone to punch it again.

 

Gothara was slammed into the ground by the Luxray, but refused to give up as she decided that all was fair in love and war, and promptly attempted to bite down on the Luxray as hard as she could.

 

The Magnezone warbled uncertainly, floating unsteadily as it tried to regain its metaphorical footing, then buzzed in anger as Pelleas punched it back to the ground. If the situation did not change, the more mobile Pokémon would be able to combo these jabs infinitely, locking it down until it ran out of energy entirely…

 

A howling feline roar joined the cacophony as the Luxray leapt into the fray, interposing himself and his painful passenger between Pelleas and his oversized metal punching bag.

 

“Stop!” Jamie called to the Heracross. There was little need as the Heracross noticed the small passenger on the Luxray. “Jump over it!” Jamie figured that coming to the rescue would be much easier if she could guarantee that the Magnezone was out of play. Spreading his wings again, the Heracross flew over the Luxray, intent on stomping on the Magnezone.

 

“Gyro Ball!” Clemont ordered. Though lacking the energy that would otherwise empower it, the Magnezone still spun rapidly, slamming into the melee and flinging away ally and enemy alike. A moment later, the careening Heracross slammed down from above, ending the Magnezone’s twirling terror even as Pelleas was tossed from the Magnezone. The Heracross rolled across the field, trying to slow himself.

 

“Magnezone is unable to battle,” the referee announced somewhat unnecessarily.

 

“Thanks, Sawyer,” Clemont sighed, recalling the fainted Pokémon to its ball. Across the field, his sole remaining Pokémon locked eyes with him; the Luxray had already taken three steps forward by the time the Gym Leader finished his order of “Wild Charge!”

 

Gothara laid dazed from the attack, but quickly tried her best to wipe the sand from her eyes as best as she could as she stood up to try and assess the situation. The Magnezone was nowhere to be seen, while the Luxray she had just been thrown from had how turned his attention to her ally, charging at Pelleas with wild abandon. With a frown, Gothara began to plot out the next move to use.

 

The Luxray ran at full pelt, paws pounding the ground with great force as the Gleam Eyes Pokémon charged at the foe now standing between him and his Trainer. Clemont had opened his Gym to challengers, despite the lack of powers, because he trusted them, trusted him. He wouldn’t let Clemont down, not now, not when he was relying so much on him! Every hair on the Luxray’s body stood at full attention, as if charged with energy…

 

“Come on, Luxray!” Clemont cheered, “I believe in you!”

 

“Pelleas, get ready for it!” Jamie shouted, her blood pumping from the excitement. Pelleas uprighted himself and adopted a defensive stance.

 

Both Pokémon braced themselves for impact…

 

At that point, from seemingly out of nowhere, the little psychic-type that could crashed into the Luxray from his blind spot, knocking both the Luxray and herself out.

 

“Luxray and Gothorita are unable to battle! The challengers win!”

 

“You fought well, my friend. Now take a good rest.” The Gym Leader was unable to keep his disappointment at the loss from his face, but he at least held it out of his voice. “Good job,” he congratulated his opponents. “You’re certainly a lot stronger than I remember, Lucia, and Jamie…” Clemont chuckled ruefully. “If you’re still around when powers come back and the League goes back to full operation, then I pity my fellow Gym Leaders.”

 

Jamie looked almost disappointed. “Aww, I wanted to beat him,” Jamie lightly whimpered as she walked over to Pelleas. “You did fantastic Pelleas, take a rest for me, okay?” she said before retreating the Heracross. She ran back over to Clemont, “Does this mean I get my first Gym Badge?” she said beaming hopefully.

 

“It sure does,” Clemont confirmed, handing over the badge and holding out one for Lucia as well. “You should register for the League while you’re here; this year’s conference was canceled when the power went out, but that just means next year will be all the more exciting with all the extra entrants.”

 

“Or if you finish your Gym Challenge early you could just follow in our current Champion’s footsteps and beat the Elite Four in the off season,” the referee interjected, the green-haired Trainer clearly impressed by Jamie’s prowess.

 

“He does have a point,” Clemont conceded. “Either way, Sawyer can help you register on your way out.”

 

Jamie showed the second biggest smile she gave at receiving a shiny object in the last couple of days. It wasn’t quite proof of a hero, but she’d always heard of Gym Badges. She’d always wanted one. And now that she had one, she was gonna take good care of it, and clean it, and name it Volty.

 

“Let’s get you a whole bunch of friends Volty,” Jamie said. “Come on, let’s go register right away,” she suddenly shouted before grabbing Sawyer’s hand to drag him to go register.

 

Lucia stared at Jamie in shock as she suddenly took off. "That was a good fight, Clemont. It'd be nice to have another rematch some time in the future." The healer grinned, then looked down at her own badge in awe - it was her own first badge and it looked… pretty cool in her opinion. She pinned the badge to her top, then smiled. "Those were good tactics. I should look into finding some ways to learn some tactics like that too."

 

Clemont nodded. “Truth be told, I’ve learned a lot from my little sister Bonnie over the years. She’s grown up to be a truly exceptional battler.”

 

"That's pretty neat." Lucia's face showed the subtlest signs of sinking, but she kept her smile up regardless. "Is she around? Maybe it'd be a neat idea to learn some tricks from her."

 

“Oh, no, she’s in Unova right now. She’s interning with Alexa of the Lumiose Press, and they’ve been off on assignment for the past few days. Something about a source in Team Plasma and trying to get the scoop on one of the Trainers whose Pokémon evolved on One Island. Speaking of which…” As if on cue, Clemont’s monitoring computer chimed. “Yes! I knew it! The future is now, thanks to science!” With enthusiasm more characteristic of a child than a grown man, Clemont gleefully ran to the console, glasses gleaming as he greedily devoured the data.

 

Lucia looked at the computer curiously, as she tilted her head a few times as she tried to wrap her head around the data. Still, she waited for Clemont to explain the results instead of actually asking.

 

“Let’s see…” he murmured, “still no data on Magnezone--that’s disappointing--but according to the sensors there was an energy spike from another source? Hmm, maybe if I run a more thorough analysis I can pinpoint where on the field it happened and when in the fight…” The man tapped a few more controls before standing up and stroking his goatee. “Well, it’s not much to go on, but it’s certainly a start. Once again, I can’t thank you or Jamie enough for…” He trailed off, sniffing the air lightly. “Do you smell that? It almost smells like…” With nigh-perfect comedic timing, the computer’s ever-present hum rose to a dangerous whine. “…Oh, no,” Clemont moaned, realizing what was about to happen, “not again!”

 

Some things, it seemed, never changed.

Edited June 30, 2018 by Flipz

[Blessed Blade]

-==IC: Jenny -- Heahea City==-

 

"Alola!" Jenny said with a smile, as she tried to repeat the gesture that Kukui had made. "My name is Jenny Hakuda, it is nice to meet you, Professor Kukui!"

 

-==IC: Ryan -- Vermillion City==-

 

"Enough to not have to worry at all." Ryan replied to Shannon before he raised his volume so the other two could hear as well. "Those sound like good plans for after." The man began to lead the way toward the Rocket Outpost after that, though he kept having a nagging feeling that he was forgetting something he wanted to do.

 

-==IC: Colleen -- Scarlet Café, Lumiose City==-

 

As Zoe and Lachina chatted about the language, Colleen got distracted by the auras of the people in the cafe. Nothing stood out to her, though there were a couple almost of... surprise? Confusion? She couldn't discern specifically what, but turned her head to see where those auras were coming from. Then it was her turn to be surprised.

 

"Three croissants, please." The Aura Wielder quickly ordered, and then turned and walked over to the two who had been looking at them. Colleen got nervous as she approached, but took a deep breath to steady herself. "Um, hello."

[Flipz]

-==IC: Looker Bureau==-

 

As the group entered the detective agency, a rather put-out looking Meowstic hissed at Jared before running between their legs and out the door. A desk haphazardly labeled “Reception” sat to the right, a dramatically outdated-looking computer atop it, while to the left was a small sitting area that had clearly been used as a sleeping area before being hastily and incompletely tidied up. A series of bamboo and paper folding screens separated the “lobby”, such as it was, from the rest of the office, but it did little to dampen the voices that floated towards them from the back of the room.

 

“…D-A-H?” a woman was saying.

 

“No ‘H’,” a man’s voice corrected, “but otherwise correct.”

 

“Got it,” the woman confirmed. Even by voice alone, her pause was palpable. “Now sir, I don’t want to jump to a false conclusion here, but I’ve seen cases like this before. If your wife is cheating on you, are you sure you want to know?”

 

“Cheating?” The man scoffed. “Don’t be absurd. My wife’s obsessed, not cheating.”

 

“Mr. Zyther,” the woman said soothingly, “I realize it may be hard to accept, but the most likely outcome--”

 

“Is not cheating, trust me. For one thing, the man’s dead.”

 

The group could practically hear the woman blinking in surprise. “D--I’m sorry, did you say dead?”

 

“Supposedly, yes. My wife thinks otherwise.” A pause. “Admittedly, if anyone could notice the signs, it would be her. Which is why I want you to back up her investigation. You’re licensed, you can go places she can’t, get answers from people who’d clam up around her. This…obsession of hers, it needs to be settled once and for all, for both of our peace of mind. You, ma’am, are the most expedient means to that end. Now, as far as finances go--”

 

Whatever the man was about to say about finances, it was cut off by the ringing of the man’s Holo Caster. With a quick apology to the woman, he answered it. “Hi, sweetheart, to what do I owe the pleasure?” A pause--apparently he was using an earpiece. “You’re in Lumiose? Now?” Another pause. “Oh, well…” The man’s footsteps echoed as he paced off of the rug and onto linoleum floor. “I’m just across the way from Sushi High Roller. I’ll be done with business in a few minutes, perhaps we can meet there if you…” Pause. “You’re there now?” The man sighed. “All right. I’ll see you shortly.” The man hung up the phone. “My daughter,” he explained apologetically. “I'm sorry for the inconvenience, if you’ll just give me a few minutes--”

 

“No need, Mr. Zyther. Family is…precious. You're lucky to have each other.”

 

“Indeed.”

 

Just then, the door opened from behind the group, admitting two women: one brown haired girl wearing a blue summer dress and a sun hat, the other a girl with strawberry blonde hair, who was wearing a loose fitting tunic over a simple-looking skirt.

 

"It was nice of Clemont to pay for replacing my outfit. I don't think I'm gonna get the scorch stains out of Aunt Stacy's clothes, hopefully she won't mind…" Lucia half-mumbled the last bit to herself as she examined her clothes for about the hundredth time since she got them. "I think I'll need to alter it a bit still, but…" She shook her head. "So, that was a fun battle, huh? I had hoped it could be that fun, even with things the way they are now."

 

Jamie nodded and said “Uh-huh. Uh-huh,” while staring eagerly at the yellow disk in her hands. She was kind of distracted by admiring the TM24 she’d been given. No offense to Lucia and her new clothes, the prospect of Thunderbolt was just more interesting. “I did not know that we would get a TM for winning. I wonder what we can use this on.”

 

The duo suddenly noticed the mission team just as a tall man with wavy brown shoulder-length hair stepped out from behind the folding screen, his hazel eyes fixing themselves firmly on the group with a frown. The man crossed his arms, cutting a particularly imposing figure in his immaculately-tailored suit and tie, the dusting of gray across his closely-shorn beard granting him a gravitas that only improved his intimidation factor. “Well?” he asked, “Would one of you care to explain how long you've been eavesdropping on my affairs? Perhaps alongside why, exactly, you've chosen to do so?”

[Blessed Blade]

-==IC: Olivia/Lucia -- Looker Bureau, Lumiose City==-

 

Something felt oddly familiar to Olivia as she tried not to listen to the conversation, but heard it and processed it anyway. She tried to think about what she could have found so familiar, but she didn't get much time at all to think before the new duo appeared - before she got time to process their arrival, however, the man who had been speaking walked out from the room. She felt a slight headache coming on from everything that competed for her attention, which wasn't helped by the interrogation the man gave shortly after.

 

Thankfully, Olivia didn't need to worry about that for too long. The redhead that she had seen stepped forward. Olivia now recognized her as that sister of Chloe's who they'd found out about in Celadon, Luna she believed her name was. She seemed to be wearing a disapproving look on her face.

 

"Dad, I don't think that's any way to treat people." 'Luna' reprimanded, as she crossed her arms. "I'm not really sure what this place is, but..." She paused for a moment and looked around. "... what is this place, anyway, again?"

Edited June 30, 2018 by Blessed Blade

[Konuju]

IC: Shannon Willows - Vermillion City

At Ryan's words warm feeling permeated through Shannon's body, followed by an immense sigh of relief. She mouthed a silent "thank you" and offered a beaming smile as she followed the man through the streets of the city.

 

Her smile faded as they drew closer to the Rocket outpost. A sizeable crowd had gathered in front of the building. Shannon had heard about anti-Rocket riots (although she had no proof she was convinced her parents went out rioting when others might go out drinking), but she had never seen one up close. She instinctively took ahold of Aori and Miyu's hands lest the children find themselves lost in the angry crowd.

 

Once again she looked to Ryan for advice. "I don't suppose there's another way around?"

 

IC: Alex Lockwood - Scarlet Café, Lumiose City

Oh, drat, Alex thought to himself as the girl approached them. I really need to learn not to stare. The Liberty agent forced himself to remain calm. This was Kalos, after all -- there wasn't a Rocket agent lurking around every corner looking to arrest him. He probably just caught the girl's eye, that's all. After all, cafés are kind of like bars, and his new haircut did look pretty snazzy . . .

 

Stop it, he self-reprimanded. You'll only embarrass yourself. The girl looked fairly nervous, which seemed to support his eye-catching theory, but then he remembered that Emma was practically a celebrity around here. She was probably just a fangirl looking for an autograph. He glanced at his cousin, then back at the girl. "Can we . . . help you?" he asked, trying to give her a reassuring smile.

 

IC: Dahlia Seaton - Looker Bureau, Lumiose City

Out of all the people to walk into the bureau, Dahlia never would have expected to see the pair of girls from Celadon. She was about to greet them when the man stepped out from behind the screen. She felt herself shrink under his glare.

 

"I-I'm very sorry, sir," she said, hastily bowing. "We weren't trying to listen in, we were just waiting our turn to talk to the detective." It was only midway through her apology that she realized Lucia had addressed the man with familiarity. She looked over at the girl in surprise. "Wait a second . . . this is your father?"