@Rune_Alchemist

Youngster Joey opened the side of his mouth, smirking with teeth shown, as the Sneasel charged his Rattata. The Sneasel barreled toward his Pokémon at an alarming speed, but he didn’t seem to react as the Sneasel unleashed a slash attack. Two gashes appeared on the side of Rattata as it howled to the skies. Sneasel dug its claws into the dirt and ended in a position right behind Rattata.

“Right where I want you.” Youngster Joey said, smiling. He took his thumb and slid it across his neck, sticking out his tongue to the side. It appeared he was impersonating a dead person.

“Alright Rattata! Use…”

A dramatic pause, with Joey directing a vehement finger forward.

“Tail Whip!”

The Rattata nodded and hummed with its mouth closed. It treated its body as a pendulum to twirl its tail around in a circular fashion. The Rattata was so enthusiastic about its tail whip, you thought it might take off at any moment.

Quill is utterly defenseless.

“Yeah! That’s the spirit Rattata!” Youngster Joey said.

@tex

The shorter, female Camper Annie held both of her hands behind her back. She twirled the tip of her shoe in the dirt and was silent for some time. The Nidoran♀ made a high pitched squeal, turning about in question of her trainer. She scuffed up the dirt with her paws, making a ruckus. The Nidoran♂ seemed to feed off of this energy and began to do the same

“Nid! Niiiidoran!” Nidoran♀ screeched. Annie and Nidoran♀ shared glances, and the camper seemed to be transfixed by her Pokémon. Scrunching her mouth, she nodded with a squeak of her own.

“You can do it, Danny!” Camper Annie said. Her voice was loud enough to announce to a stadium, let alone the two of them. Danny took a teary-eyed glance of his own towards Annie, and they shared something similar to what you’d just witnessed before. Danny nodded as well, smiling faintly.

Nidoran♀ began to walk towards your Meowth. Camper Annie took a step forward of her own, her shoulders more square and now facing towards you. Her voice was as powerful as before, “Nidoran♀, use Growl!” The Nidoran♀ lowered her hindlegs and grimaced. A reverberating growl was directed at Meowth. You didn’t expect such a tenacious noise to come from such a small creature, and you could tell Meowth was more shaken than before. Though, the Nidoran♀ left itself wide open to attack.

@Lasrever
The other two trainers were occupied, which left you facing Camper Danny. He was taking an… interesting battle stance. He’d sat down, scrunching his knees together by wrapping an arm around them. He took to drawing designs underneath his legs. Danny’s face was scrunched up into his squished legs, so you couldn’t quite tell what kind of expression he had.

“You can do it, Danny!” Camper Annie said.

The boy looked up to Annie, the drawing having been paused. They stared at each other for a moment before Danny nodded. He pushed himself to a standing position, cap guarding his face from the sun.

Nidoran♂ stomped the ground with all of his limbs. His actions betrayed his eyes, calm and blue and still. You stared at an ocean with no waves. Camper Danny lifted his head to reveal his face, dew-sprinkled. The boy sniffled and rubbed his eyes with a closed fist to remove the moisture.

“Nidoran♂,” Camper Danny said in a plain voice. “Use Leer.”

Nidoran’s♂ eyes changed from a calm ocean to a burning sun, glowing yellow in their intensity. Deerling took a few steps back upon witnessing the sight. He was not expecting the move, and was made a bit uneasy by it. Still, your Pokémon held its ground, and could retaliate.



The Poké Ball containing your Pokémon finished downloading before your very eyes. It sat expectantly on a pocket below the screen, awaiting you. The top, red portion had a blue “P” inscribed into it. More blue letters began flaring across the screen.

@Eklispe

No 406 BUDEW (BUDEW)
BUD POKéMON
LEVEL: 5
HT 0’ 08”
WT 2.6 LBS
SEX: M

NATURE: SASSY
INCREASED STAT: SP. DEF
DECREASED STAT: SPD
FAVORITE FLAVOR: BITTER
DISLIKED FLAVOR: SWEET

ABILITY: POISON POINT (CONTACT MOVES FROM OPPONENTS HAVE A CHANCE TO POISON)

SENSITIVE TO CHANGING TEMPERATURES, THE BUD BLOOMS WHEN IT’S WARM, RELEASING TOXIC POLLEN

PLEASE TAKE YOUR POKé BALL. GOOD LUCK!

The computer said.

~You caught Budew!~

@Xan the G

No 228 ROOK (HOUNDOUR)
DARK POKéMON
LEVEL: 5
HT 2’ 00”
WT 23.8 LBS
SEX: M

NATURE: BRAVE
INCREASED STAT: ATK
DECREASED STAT: SPD
FAVORITE FLAVOR: SPICY
DISLIKED FLAVOR: SWEET

ABILITY: CALCULATING…

IT IS SMART ENOUGH TO HUNT IN PACKS. IT USES A VARIETY OF CRIES FOR COMMUNICATING WITH OTHERS.

PLEASE TAKE YOUR POKé BALL. GOOD LUCK!
The computer said.

~You caught Rook, the Houndour!~

@BlueSky44

No 261 POOCHYENA (POOCHYENA)
BITE POKéMON
LEVEL: 5
HT 1’ 08”
WT 30.0 LBS
SEX: M

NATURE: HASTY
INCREASED STAT: SPD
DECREASED STAT: DEF
FAVORITE FLAVOR: SWEET
DISLIKED FLAVOR: SOUR

ABILITY: QUICK FEET (SPEED INCREASED UNDER ANY STATUS)

A POKéMON WITH A PERSISTENT NATURE, IT CHASES ITS CHOSEN PREY UNTIL THE PREY BECOMES EXHAUSTED.

PLEASE TAKE YOUR POKé BALL. GOOD LUCK!

The computer said.

~You caught Poochyena!~

--

“Hello there,” Holly said.

Gah! When had she gotten right behind you? She was like a shadow to you. Havoc might be especially startled by the fact that she was able to walk up behind you undetected.

“I see you have retrieved your first Pokémon. Congratulations. Allow me to brief you on pertinent information.”

Smile or something lady, yeesh. Throw me a ‘Hip, Hip, Hooray!’ No? Okay.

“I have for you vital tools to be used for the duration of your research partnership with Professor Palm.”

Holly had already prepared these devices in a stack of three, one for each of you. They were neatly organized as she held them out, not saying anything but expecting each trainer to take one at their convenience. You knew these tools as Pokédex, but unlike any other color you’ve might have seen them in, these had a golden finish to their exterior.



“These devices are to be used in gathering information about Pokémon. Point this at any Pokémon, and its information will be downloaded to the database.” Holly stared forward, not even looking at you, merely reciting the words by heart. “You will be able to share communication capabilities with whom you link your devices with. All devices have been pre-linked to my Pokédex, therefore you may call for assistance.”

Holly continued, her body rigid and unmoving. She was like a contract in human form.

“Catalogue all Pokémon witnessed, and you will receive monetary sums for both wild species and rare species, the latter receiving an increased sum.”

You began to question whether Holly had lungs or not as she continued to drone on with her list of information. What was she looking at with that blank stare anyway? You might look behind you, but nothing would be there.

“You may not use competing technologies while under the employment of Palm, Inc. Failure to comply will result in termination,” Holly said, not stuttering once.
“More technology will be sent to assist you as you prove to be a more reliable employee. Here is a complementary Palm Ball.”

Holly had replaced the stacked Pokédex with three Poké Balls in a triangular pattern, holding out her hands once again urging you to take them. You hadn’t really noticed when she’d even pulled them out. They had a blue ‘P’ etched into the top portion. “Intricate microvessel cooling allows for more rapid capture.”



“Do you have additional questions?” Holly stated.



The blue Pokédex popped open. A sing-song introduction beamed it alive, a bright blue screen flashing. As blue text dashed across the screen, the Pokédex spoke to you. It almost sounded like Professor Dogwood, but compressed and pixelated. The text matched the words said.

“HELLO MARA! HOW MAY I ASSIST YOU?” the Pokédex said. A host of options loaded horizontally, one after another.

POKéDEX
POKéMON
BAG
TRAINER INFORMATION
LINK
CALL
EXIT
--
”Professor, um… What does the computer mean when it says my Pokemon contains the gates of hell?”

Dogwood’s darting pupils swayed much quicker than yours, looking about the room. He never stared, going from the Espurr, to the Yanma, to the Espurr, to the Yanma. The Espurr stared, though. It stared for a long, long time. Droplets of moisture appeared on Dogwood’s face, slowly sliding down towards his neck. He produced a cloth from his front coat pocket, dabbing his brow unsuccessfully. He kept mumbling something, but whatever he was saying was incoherent. This stunt continued for a second too long for your comfort.

“Eh, um, excuse me for one moment,” Dogwood said. His long strides quickly carried him from the room. His back warped around the door frame in his effort to escape the space. After some silence a piston from just outside the room opened its maw and bellowed out smoke in a loud scream. And, none-too-well muffled by the piston, came the professor’s voice.

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!”

Moments after, Dogwood came strolling in, face covered in grease and a wrench in hand. His head cocked side to side in his walk, forearm brought up to eye level with each swing. “Ha! Pesky pistons, always prone to maintenance,” he said.

”This place is like a fairy castle…”

Dogwood laughed, but it wasn’t as hearty as usual. “I sometimes just build from the mind. Some of my greatest inventions are born from fantasy; there’s nothing that can’t be accomplished with a creative mind!” Dogwood said. He appeared to be winking now, keeping one eye closed in the direction of Lulu and Kira.

”Which way is the best way to leave town? Not best as in best for new trainers, but best for seeing amazing things…”

"Um, what's the best route to get to the next town?"

“Well, Route A’s your best bet there, straight to Quagmire Town. If you try to head out another way, you’ll get lost in the swamp.” Dogwood frowned and lowered his head. “I had a good childhood friend who never came back from there.” He actually looked intently into both of your eyes, despite his rapid breathing. “Please. Stick to the routes, unless you have a guide,” Dogwood said.

Dogwood leaned back and smiled, unleashing some air through his nostrils. “Well! Y’all seem as ready as you can be! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call!” The professor raised his thumb and winked. “You’ll do great! I promise!” he insisted.

Rowan Branchers

_____

Dewmeadow

Rowan didn’t waste a second. He listened to the words Dogwood talked but barely heard them, glanced over the information displayed on the screen but didn’t actually read it, he was too excited about actually getting his Purrloin. And then… he actually got her. He got the little Pokéball in his hand. Knowing by having studied what to do, he clicked and opened the Pokéball, and in a little flash of light Purrloin took shape on the floor, the purple cat-Pokémon stretching out her limbs and yawning (slightly adorably) at the fact she had been woken up, before looking around with a small cat-smile and a calculating look to evaluate her current situation.

It was immediately apparent to Purrloin. There was this kid smiling at her like it was the best day of his life. It also appeared that he was holding her Pokéball, which was a clear indication that her new trainer had been decided. Purrfect.

‘Purr~looiiin~’ The cat made an adorable sound and her eyes went from analyzing to extremely happy as she went over and stroked herself against Rowan’s leg in her act. Rowan… bought it immediately. He looked so happy that he might start crying as he took a step back to then go down on his knees to hug the Pokémon, who while mildly surprised welcomed the gesture and cuddled against him.

‘Purrloin.’ Rowan said to her dreamingly. ‘Puuurr~’ Purrloin replied appreciatingly. They both looked so extremely happy. Of course, a nearby Pokémon would have understood that Purrloin had just said something along the lines of “I couldn’t have asked for an easier Trainer~!”, but that’s another matter altogether. He had, after all, in his excitement skipped reading her nature and the Pokédex entry on her, after all.

‘We’ll have the BEST of adventures!’ After having had his little first meeting for a bit, he let Purrloin go and…

‘Awwwwww! An Espurr!’ Rowan’s eyes widened happily once again as he saw what Mara had on her shoulder. Normally, his reaction might have been a bit more extreme, but now he just looked and smiled happily down at Purrloin. ‘Of course. If I get something as adorable as you, then they has to get something too!’ He turned to Mara. ‘I’m so happy for you!’
‘Loooin~’ Purrloin made a sound of agreeing with Rowan’s statement. Because she was to seem adorable to everyone else, too.

And Yasha got a Yanma. ‘Ooooh. A Yanma.’ Rowan looked in mild amazement at that the boy also got his first Pokémon, but then his attention was suddenly once again drawn to Purrloin brushing herself against his leg. Smirking, Rowan bent down and picked her up before also taking his Pokédex and listened in to the Professor’s words. Alright, so they’d get money for capturing Pokémon? That works. It’s a way to make a living. Not use Ficus tech, huh. Rowan was surprised by that, but okay. Then, got Dogwood ball. ‘Thank you…!’

At this point, Rowan didn’t really have any questions, so he’d wait for the questions of the other two to be sated. He’s just going to smile at his cuddling Purrloin in his arms for a bit. And Purrloin has absolutely nothing against working as deep into his heart as she can.

________


Key Items: Dogwood Pokédex
Items: 1 Potion, 1 Dogwood Ball
488 P

Abigail Lowe

So, they actually were gonna battle! Despite her earlier reluctance, the small girl found herself itching to start off the fight. It was her and Waffles' first battle, after all! There was no way that they'd lose this one! Her Pokémon shared her determination, but in a much calmer, more controlled way. In his eyes, though, his confidence was obvious to see.

It looked like she and Waffles were facing off against one of the camper guys. Abigail found herself kind of fascinated by the Leer attack herself. It was kind of creepy, but it was also cool! The girl's face shone as she watched the battle start. She'd only ever watched this stuff on TV before! At least she knew some stuff that might help her win from all the time she'd spent planning for her and Luke's journey.

She tried to remember what the basic moves were for most Pokémon. Wasn't it stuff like Tackle and Tail Whip? Yeah, that was it! She looked at Waffles, whose head was held high despite the other Pokémon's attack. She guessed it would probably be Tackle, and... Well, he wasn't creepy enough for Leer, and his tail was kinda tiny so Tail Whip didn't make sense... Oh! Since he didn't seem too freaked out by the Leer, Abigail shouted her orders enthusiastically.

"I got it! Waffles, use Growl, then Tackle that Nidoran♂!" the small deer was happy to oblige, and a noise came out of his mouth that was almost scarily ferocious for such a small and kind of adorable creature. Eyes locking onto the rabbit Pokémon, he launched into a Tackle attack matching the intensity of his cry, appearing to be taking the fight much more seriously than his trainer and continuing to Growl as he launched himself at the slightly smaller Pokémon.

Abigal, in the meantime, looked a little freaked out by the Growl. How did Waffles even... I didn't think it'd be that scary, he's so small! Hmm... I guess this means my Pokémon's strong and cute! Yeah! she cheered on the Deerling as he charged down the Nidoran♂. "Get him Waffles!"

---

Pokedollars: 500

Vuduin grabbed the pokeball with a grin on his face. It had began, he had his first Pokemon and was ready to begin his journey. His dramatic thoughts were interrupted by the polite voice of Holly behind him. Her sudden speech startled him and he jolted momentarily before turning around to face her somewhat sheepishly. Luckily for him she seemed not to notice. Vuduin grabbed the Pokedex as it was offered and looked over it curiously while Holly continued explaining, like some sort of robot with a set duty to fulfill. He blinked in surprise at hearing the monetary part of the deal.

He'd never really thought about how he would make money, luckily for him it was covered, though he felt that getting paid to do this was somehow cheating. After all a real hero didn't accept payment for his actions. Of course heroes never seemed to have to pay for much either. Something to consider later. Vuduin once again reached out and grabbed the Pokeball that had somehow appeared, the women must be some sort of ninja, and examined it. Cool. "No questions here," Vuduin said quickly and turned to Arren, "Hey, want to link Pokedex's so if we split up we can still talk to each other?" Preferably they would travel together but barring that it would be nice if he could still communicate with her. Especially if she got into trouble and needed help.

---

Arren walked up to the pokeball that was sitting right in front of her. She couldn't believe that she was finally getting her very first Pokémon. She had always dreamed of starting her journey as a trainer.

Arren was so caught up in the moment, she wasn't paying attention to what Holly was saying. One minute she was sitting there looking at her pokeball, the next she was looking up just in time to hear the end of her explanation about the Pokedex. She reached out and grabbed one, surprised that it could be used as a communicator. Arren tried to pay attention to Holly, but her mind just did not want to stay in the present. She kept wondering where she would go first after this whole conversation, what places would she see? What Pokémon would she meet? All of these questions were burning in her mind.

"I don't have any questions Holly," she said.

She looked over to her right, and saw Vuduin looking at her.

"Hey, want to link Pokedex's so if we split up we can still talk to each other?" he asked her.

"Sure," she replied,"that sounds like a good idea".

She held out her Pokedex, so that they could link them up. This guy seemed a little strange to her, but that was alright. He seemed nice, and that is all that really mattered to her. Hopefully they could be friends, maybe even travel together for a while. Her journey is just beginning, so she will just have to wait and see what direction it takes her.

Mara Scelus

Mara scrolled through the options of the pokedex, momentarily distracted when she heard the professor’s piercing scream. Some of the awe she had for him slipped away, and when he reappeared, she frowned slightly.

He’s weird.

Mara listened to the professor vaguely, catching the route and town name that would be relevant. She’d already noticed that there wasn’t any sort of map included in the pokedex—she’d need to find one as soon as she could. Perhaps Quagmire town would have them for sale.

At any rate, she’d be finally leaving Dewmeadow! A smile played on her lips and she felt like shouting in join, but instead, she kept herself composed.

Glancing over, she saw Rowan happily snuggling with his new Purrloin, and Yasha seemed quite content with his new Yamna. She bit her lip, pondering how to approach the subject… Would they even want to travel with her? She doubted that they would, and she resolved herself to likely travel alone, as much as she wanted to go in a group.

Still, she cast a hopeful glance over at Rowan and Yasha—maybe one of them would ask her to travel with them! As fascinating as the world outside of Dewmeadow was to her, she knew that she couldn't just go by herself. For starters, she was only one person, and there were all sorts of rumors about snatchers and such. And of course, having friends couldn't hurt! As obsessed as she was with knowledge, she knew that it was important to have friends to go with.

They probably won't want to go with someone like me though.... Mara thought sadly. At least I have Kira...

---

Location: Dewmeadow
Current Team:

• Kira the Espurr
  
  Status: N/A
  Level: 5

Inventory: Potion (1), Pokedollars (500), Dogwood Pokedex, Dogwood Ball (1)

After hearing Holly's detailed, monotonous rhetoric Havoc found himself with no questions to ask. The information Holly gave was already enough surprises for him. Frankly, Havoc enrolled in the trainer program simply as a means of acquiring his first pokemon. While she spoke he reached in and clutched the pokeball that materialised from the terminal. He glanced left and right at the other trainers receiving their pokemon and sending them out while on deck. He looked at the ball intensely but ultimately decided against doing the same and stowed the ball on his belt buckle. He could do all of that away from prying eyes. He was in no rush. Not the kind they were anyway.

Havoc shook his head to Holly and received the pokedex. He began to twiddle it in his hands as he contemplated to concerns that he needed addressing. It seemed that there was in fact a consequence and condition to receiving the pokemon and it gave him a requirement towards this Professor Palm. He had intentions of being a free-roaming vigilante, but to act on the Professor's payroll would automatically make him a sanctions sellsword instead.

...But maybe that wasn't a bad thing. While Vuduin and Arren conversed in front of him, Havoc reflected on his opportunity. If he told his parents he was going to become a pokemon trainer, it would throw the scent off his vigilante ambitions. He could still do that much.

---

Location: S.S.Expedition

Current Team:

Rook the Houndour¦Status: N/A¦Level: 5

Inventory: Potion (1), Pokedollars (500), Palm Pokedex, Palm Ball (1)

Tesh glanced at the pair of Nidoran momentarily with a frown. He instead focused on Lynn's sneasel as it made its first attack. That Rattata had to be pretty bulky to tank a hit from a Sneasel like that. Either that, or that Sneasel was a wimp. Or did he soften the blow somehow? The youngster confidently ordered its pokemon to use tail-whip directly after, revealing that not only was his Rattata just as fresh as the rest of their pokemon, but that he was a total idiot as well. These kids don't deserve to be training pokemon for battle.

Tesh looked back at his Meowth, who was already padding towards Nidoran♀ despite the creature's growl. "Mrawwww!" It cried out again, following up with yet another low-toned growling noise. Kaz was Adamant, not to be completely dissuaded by a simple growl. He'd been growling this entire time regardless of his trainer's instruction, after all! Tesh's surprise met no end at the Meowth grew closer to the Nidoran, bearing down on it with its oppressive eyes. When Kaz was within 4 feet of his target, he didn't wait for a prompt from his trainer, immediately side-stepping into a short-range dash on all four of its legs, and brandishing its right paw's payload with a heavy right swing aimed towards the little Pink pokemon's cheek. Tesh frowned at the little Meowth's complete independence. Should he even interfere? Would Kaz listen to him? No, not this Meowth. He wasn't going to respect Tesh Barking orders at him like a drill sergeant. Kaz had to learn from his stubborn attitude the hard way before he was ready to accept Tesh's orders.

---

~Lynn Haywood~

What...was that even? Tailwhip? What'd that even do? She vaguely recalled something about her brother saying something about it lowering a pokemon's defenses or something. Lynn simply smirked, giving an unimpressed huff and a smirk as the youngster royally messed up in her opinion. For one, she was pretty sure it wasn't going to be taking too many attacks from Quill. Secondly, even if it could take a few more...well, Quill was a fast little pokemon from what she had just seen. It could probably dish out quite a few attacks faster than Rattata would be able to.

Hmm...

"Dunno what you were hoping to accomplish with that," She calmly smirked, coldly brushing off the Rattata's attack with confidence. "But you probably just lost. Quill!" Lynn shouted, intending to give her another order to attack. "Hit that Rattata until it's down! I don't care how many hits it takes. I want it dealt with before it can even make another move."

Quill didn't even need instruction for that. She raked her claws together as she turned around, seeming to mimic the motion one would make when sharpening a blade before it launched a second assault on the Rattata. One claw sliced at the Rattata's opposite side in a similar fashion as she had before, though she didn't stop much to see if it actually connected. As soon as she was done with that, Quill immediately planted one foot in the ground redirecting her momentum back at Rattata and not stopping. Quill made a second strike, an uppercut with her claw aimed right at the Rattata's face.

---

@Eklispe @Xan the G @BlueSky44


During their conversation, they were suddenly interrupted by someone had quickly approached the three trainers. Standing in front of them, a man wearing fancy top hat and black sunglasses covering his eyes with a large old fluffy gray beard wearing very baggy sweatpants and dark green t-shirt with a cartoon yellow smiley face on the front of it. “Oh, pardon me youngsters! But can I have just a moment of your time?” He says in a tone that sounding cheerful and particularly over the top, grinning widely at all three of them showing off his not so pearly whites. “I'm participating and searching for people that would be willing to raise awareness for pokemon's health and well being! I'm putting big hearts on people's pokeballs to show they themselves have big hearts!” The man explained showing a large set of pink heart stickers, taking a few seconds to reveal a pokeball from his pocket with a heart sticker on it. Taking a second to make sure everyone saw it before putting it back in his pocket, before looking at them. “Your all trainers aren't ya? Would you like to participate? Every sticker I give out will make a difference.” The man asked them each of them reaching out his arm showing the palm of his hand, holding up the stickers with his other hand, still beaming them a smile, seemingly waiting for a response from the group of trainers.

@Rune_Alchemist

Youngster Joey broke into a fit of laughter, doubling over with his arms crossed inwardly over his torso. The laugh was contagious in a nauseating kind of way. You wished he’d stop. You really, really, really wished he’d stop. You thought he would keep over at any moment as his body erupted into spasms and his voice quaked. Trainers still standing in line stood on the tips of their toes and took sideways glances to see what the fuss was about.

“I told you,” the Youngster looked up, a shit-eating grin plaguing his face. “My Rattata is in the top percentage of Rattata.” You could swear a flash of light beamed from the corner of the kid’s eye. He unwrapped his arms from his torso and adjusted the back of his cap once again, now complete sideways. The boy stood tall and in a wide-legged stance. The grass brushed against his bright red shoes. He pointed a finger straight up to the sky, as if he were to announce a challenge against the heavens themselves. “Rattata, use Quick Attack!”

The grass around the Rattata began to wane outwardly. You saw its red eyes pulse as its form became nothing but a blur. A purple streak directed as a missile towards Quill. The Sneasel’s initial attack struck air, as the sharp claw Pokémon hopped onto one foot to pause its charge. Its head swiveled about, looking confused.

“You’re mine now!”

The wind held its breath.

“This is it!”

Rattata was upon and behind Quill, faster than the Pokémon could react. Its head, travelling at sonic speeds, went to collide with the young Sneasel. The very hairs atop the Rattata’s head skimmed Sneasel’s leg. His body went careening past, momentum too swift to pause. Rattata had missed.

Quill took this opportunity to follow with a second swipe, claws colliding directly with the side of the Rattata’s neck. Gravity failed to weigh the mouse Pokémon down as it soared halfway across the dirt path and onto the bordering soil.

“Rat…tata…”



You saw the exact moment Youngster Joey lost hope as the glimmer faded from his eyes. He fell to his knees and rubbed wet eyes with twisting fists. “It’s not fair! I had you! It’s not fair!” Youngster Joey continued to whine, recalling Rattata to its Ficus Ball in the middle of his tantrum.

Quill was still very much a part of the fight. Meowth was battling Nidoran♀ and Deerling was battling Nidoran♂. Which fight did it join, if at all?

@tex

Kaz’s growls were followed by a furious dash, claws slicing the grass below it as its paw connected with the side of the Nidoran’s♀ face. Her claws dug into dirt and created a deep, dragging trail. Specks of brown and light tan polluted the nearby air. Save for a bruise and heavy breathing, the Nidoran♀ appeared to maintain its grounding. Only a defensive nature could explain resisting such a strong attack from the flank.

Kaz looked to his paw, where a quill had penetrated his skin. A flash of purple overtook his form and it was gone. The Meowth was visibly woozy, repeatedly hacking but maintaining its footing as Nidoran’s♀ poison had been introduced to its veins.



Camper Annie failed to say anything, amazed at the turn of events that had happened. Her big, bright eyes observed both of the Pokémon over and over, unable to make up her mind or focus. “Oh I know!” The camper framed her chin by cupping her fingers. “Alright Nidoran♀! Pin him down!” She said, bringing her elbow down for emphasis.

The Nidoran♀ obeyed its trainer’s command, swinging its head as a sledgehammer and using that momentum to leap onto Kaz. Pinning each of the Meowth’s limbs to the ground, the Nidoran♀ continued to growl into the feline face of Kaz. Kaz struggled to usurp the weight of Nidoran♀, as the Pokémon was nearly twice the weight of the scratch cat Pokémon. You weren’t quite sure how large Nidoran♀ normally were, but this one had to be above average. Despite its ferocity, the Meowth appeared unable to topple her over. His struggles were interrupted by the tightening of his muscles, poison beginning to wear on his body.

“That’s it! Don’t let up!” Camper Annie said.

@Lasrever

Deerling charged valiantly forth, unleashing an intimidating growl and lowering its shoulder in order to connect with the slightly shorter Nidoran♂. Both Nidoran♂ and Camper Danny were caught off guard by the outburst, and Waffles’ attack was able to connect easily with the ill-prepared Nidoran♂. Waffles had driven Nidoran♂ onto his hind legs, rocks being scattered by the Pokémon’s efforts to stay on its feet. Though, he was able to push back hard enough before he fell into a defenseless position, belly upright. Waffles and Nidoran♂ locked eyes, arms, teeth, and claws in this embrace, one not gaining an edge over the other. Their snarling and growling was buried in the mess of noise that was occurring around you, trainers leaving the lab now forming a ring around your unusual 3v3 battle.

Camper Danny readjusted his orange scarf, tightening the knot that held it all together. The scarf took to wind as a breeze rolled by. He lifted his cap’s bill to wipe some sweat from his brow. The boy’s brown bangs caught the wind along with his scarf, and his untucked shirt followed suit. For the first time he grinned, and Nidoran♂ began to push forward against Waffles. Heavy steps, slow steps, but forward nonetheless.

“I chose your Pokémon for a reason. I know everything about my Nidoran♂,” Danny said, a raised eyebrow suggesting he had just taken the advantage. The two Pokémon continued to struggle cacophonously, but the camper spoke over the two. “Your Deerling is a Grass type, and a male.” Danny puts his hands on his hips and puffed out his chest. “With my Nidoran’s♂ Rivalry and flying-type move, there’s no way we can lose!” Nidoran♂ took a final step forward, struggling to rear its neck backward.

“Nidoran♂, use Peck!”

The Pokémon’s horn glowed a faint blue, first at its center and then as a whole. Locked into struggle, Waffles was unable to escape the sideswipe. Nidoran’s♂ horn lodged itself into Deerling’s shoulder, a blast of sound emanating from the impact. A cloud of dust kicked up from the impact and formed around the two Pokémon. Silence remained where growls once thrived.



The dust cleared, revealing a battered, bruised, but standing Deerling. The super effective move struck home, but Deerling remained locked into struggle with Nidoran♂. One could only guess that Waffles’ growl was the only thing that prevented such an attack from fainting him. It was now Waffles that pushed forward against Nidoran♂, the sound of tiny pebbles being crushed underfoot as a background. His quivering body and shaking hooves failed to surrender.

“What? I-Impossible!” Camper Danny’s voice stuttered, and he paced in place, alternating side to side. His hands ruffled his cap against his brown, curly hair in frustration. He attempted to think of a counter-plan to the seemingly indomitable Waffles. “Quick Nidoran♂ one more time!” Danny said. It was the only thing that came to mind in panic. Nidoran’s♂ horn began to glow a faint blue once again, preparing to down Waffles in one, final strike.



Holly lowered her upper body, keeping her legs stiff. She held some sort of clipboard with both hands, gripping the bottom of it and holding it at her waistline. A nearby blue screen reflected faint light on her face, giving her pink, swirling hair a periwinkle hue. Her bright, blue eyes betrayed her calculating demeanor. Her presence wasn’t necessarily cold; her words were actually quite helpful and supporting. There was simply an inhuman tone to it that was… off.

“Very well. Please escort yourselves at your leisure. Facilities are available in the upper level, and the deck is open for Pokémon capture,” Holly said. Well, that was surprising. You didn’t think you would be able to catch Pokémon so soon. Though, with some thinking, you supposed you were technically on a route. “Please arrive for Professor Palm’s complementary dinner at sunset, in the dining hall on the main floor.”

Just as she finished explaining the location of dining quarters, a rather unique individual in top hat and mismatched garb waddled onto the scene. Holly raised her clipboard to chest level, flipping through the graph paper with mechanical precision.

“Ah, yes, Mr. Reginald Gilbertian, III. Have you or are you currently registering your Pokémon with Palm, Inc.?”

Holly either didn’t notice the gentleman’s offer, or had chosen to ignore it. Her sky-blue eyes rested uncomfortably still on the gentleman’s, awaiting response.

SUZUKI YASHA

Pokedollars: 500



Team: Lulu the Yanma


Was the professor okay? Why did he look like he saw some monstrosities right in front of him and nearly pissed his pants? The ear shattering scream also didn't help Yasha wonder if the professor was having a panic attack from all the stress of his job. He really looked like he needed to get out of the lab more and just lay his head down on a pillow of hay. Poor guy, the work must be getting to him. Yasha thought to himself.

Yasha listened to the professor with his full attention focused on him when he had begun to tell him about the route they should take. They really should stay on the path if what the professor said was true. It sounded like the swamp was a dangerous place though what lived there? Did an ogre live there or something?

Well, he'd be leaving Dewmeadow town soon, but there was a problem; he didn't want to go alone! He had no idea of the customs or social behavior of the citizens of the Huji region so he may actually end up offending some people or worse, get hurt. Hell, with the looks he had received just by running through the town, it was obvious that strangers weren't exactly taken lightly. Just what was going on in the Huji region? He had only been in the region for a very short amount of time so he wasn't aware of the situation that the people of Huji were going through.

"Uh, say y'all, how about we all partner up for this here journey? I sure ain't exactly sure how things work in Huji and I really could use some buddies for the road. What do y'all say?" Yasha chuckled nervously and played with his ponytail again.

Rowan Branchers

_____

Dewmeadow, Dogwood's Lab

Rowan and Purrloin both stared with kind of surprised eyes towards where the Professor was leaving and then screamed outside. He had his excuse, but Rowan was genuinely confused as to what the real cause of the sound was. Was- was there something he knew that the children he was sending out didn't know, but he couldn't do anything about it? … And then he came in and talked about his childhood friend who had disappeared... That's it. The Professor is definitely worried about them, for some reason.

'Don't worry, Professor!' Rowan made a fist and lifted it with one hand, his eyes gleaming under a determined frown. 'We'll be perfectly safe! You have no reason to worry!'

Purrloin, still held in Rowan's other arm, copied her trainer for the cuteness factor and held out a little paw and copied Rowan's expression towards the Professor, including the eyes. 'Rrloin!'

Alright. Now, then. They had all gotten their Pokémon. Rowan had studied quite extensively for his Pokémon trip, to the degree that his parents had joked that maybe he'd get bored out there because he'd already learned all there was to learn out there. Though, he had mostly only studied different species of Pokémon and things that concern them, things like the geography of the land, history and region-specific things he had completely forgot. But, he did know that there WERE dangers out there. Dangers that would be bad to face alone. That, and... They had gotten their Pokémon together.

Rowan looked off towards Mara and Yasha. He really, REALLY wanted to travel with them. But, what if they thought otherwise? What if they wanted to brave the unknown by themselves? Would he just be a bother, requesting such a childish thing? He had it on the tip of his tongue, wondering if he should say something, but shyly thinking that maybe-

"Uh, say y'all, how about we all partner up for this here journey? I sure ain't exactly sure how things work in Huji and I really could use some buddies for the

'YES! THAT! JUST THAT!' Rowan would suddenly eagerly exclaim, his eyes wide in excitement that was just a little bit too powerful to allow Yasha to finish that entire sentence. He still could, of course, but at that moment Rowan would have processed enough of what he was saying to suddenly shout out happily, actually startling the Purrloin on his arms. 'We should totally travel together, sharing our experience and becoming the best of friends together as we see the world!' … Then, after what Yasha had triggered from his mouth, he realized that Mara had not actually had time to say her opinion on this yet, and that he might have pressured her to it. Suddenly wincing back to shy Rowan, he lowered his gaze a bit and adressed her.

'Er, that is, if you want to? I-if you want to travel alone, or don't want to travel with us for any reason, that's entirely okay, it's entirely your choice, y-yeah...' Rowan's volume had decreased considerably as he asked Mara. Purrloin looked at her trainer, and then looked with a little curious look at Mara and Kira. She then made the loneliest look in the entire universe, tilting her head making the area under her eyes look just a bit bigger, ears and tails dropping a little and looking at her. '… Purrloin?' She asked.

Of course, to Purrloin, she was just attempting to amass more people that found her the most endearing being in the world. More people around meant more confusion and more safety for her to practice her usual behavior. That, and more targets. Of course.
________


Key Items: Dogwood Pokédex
Items: 1 Potion, 1 Dogwood Ball
482 P

Vuduin let out an internal whoop, outwardly simply keeping a friendly smile. Permanent contact with girl established! He quickly linked his Pokedex with hers and turned to the guy that had been silent so far in the small group of three. "Hey, wanna link up with us as well? It'd be cool to for all three of us to be a group thingy." Anything further he would've said was interrupted when Holly spoke up and announced both that there was a free dinner and that they could catch Pokemon on deck, something Vuduin hadn't even considered yet. Holly's robotic attitude still bothered him, she seemed like she should be a cheery lady, maybe she just needed a hug or something. He shook his head slightly, well it was nothing he could fix. Thinking her announcement he began wondering how could he began catching Pokemon if he didn't even know his own yet. Still it'd be a good chance to get Budew some training in right away.

Then an oddly friendly and cheerful man offering them stickers to support Pokemon health. Well no hero would resist an offer like that, even if the man was a little... Odd. "Of course I'll take as sticker, just one moment." Vuduin released Budew into his other hand, he didn't want to put something on his Pokeball while his Pokemon was still inside. His Budew was even smaller and lighter than he expected. "Hey buddy, look, I've got a sticker to make your Pokeball look prettier." Budew surveyed his trainer as well as the sticker and nodded to himself in a pleased fashion, which looked rather silly, and sat on Vuduin's hand contentedly and examining the surroundings. Having explained it to the Pokeball's occupant and been given a positive response Vuduin grabbed one of the offered stickers peeling it off and carefully sticking it onto his Pokeball, one-handed no less. "So, think the three of us should head top-deck and see if we can start looking for some Pokemon? I mean I will, it'd be cool if I had some company." Though perhaps it would be best if they trained with each other and their new Pokemon a bit before training against actual wild Pokemon, but Vuduin was sure things would be alright.

---

Abigail Lowe

Abigail let out a gasp as the Pokémon collided. "Waffles, are you okay? Waffles!" she yelled, trying to see through the dust. When she saw the Pokémon standing up, she was relieved, but noticed that he seemed a bit shaky. As the Camper was trying to get over his shock, she was searching through her Pokedex. "Come on, come on, come on!" she muttered anxiously as she searched for Deerling's moves. There had to be something that could help!

"Um, okay... Tackle, Growl... Camouflage! That'll help, right?" she looked at her Pokémon anxiously and paled as the Camper yelled another order to his Nidoran. As urgently as she could, Abigail yelled an order at her Deerling. "Deerling, use Camouflage and get out of there!" with a slightly weak cry, her Pokémon followed the order, retreating a few steps from his struggle with the Nidoran and blending in to the surface of the path.

"Okay, okay... I've got an idea, I think... Hey, Waffles! I want you to move around Nidoran as fast as you can! And try to stay, like, super quiet!" she yelled, hoping that Deerling would have the strength to move fast enough that her plan would work. Abigail was finding it difficult to keep track of her Pokémon, so hopefully the other trainer would too, right?

After a few moments, which she hoped would give enough time for Nidoran to lose track of Waffles, she yelled out another command, determined not to get beaten in her first ever battle. "Now, Tackle it with everything you've got, Waffles!" Without a cry, Waffles launched himself at the rabbit Pokémon for a second time from the opposite side to his first attack.

---

Pokedollars: 500

Mara Scelus

"Uh, say y'all, how about we all partner up for this here journey? I sure ain't exactly sure how things work in Huji and I really could use some buddies for the...

Mara couldn’t hide her excitement, as much as she tried to. A smile broke out on her face and she would have squealed, had Rowan not stunned her into silence a mere moment later. Her eyes widened as Rowan began, in her opinion, to shriek.

'YES! THAT! JUST THAT!'

“...road. What do y'all say?”” Yasha finished, but Rowan wasn’t done yet.

'We should totally travel together, sharing our experience and becoming the best of friends together as we see the world…. Er, that is, if you want to? I-if you want to travel alone, or don't want to travel with us for any reason, that's entirely okay, it's entirely your choice, y-yeah...'

Mara felt like she’d been hit with a stun spore, torn between squealing in excitement and crying. She never knew how to handle people shouting—no matter whether they were happy or angry. It always put her in a state.

Don’t mess this up, Mara! she scolded herself, biting her lip and clenching her fists. With determination, she nodded firmly at Yasha and Rowan.

”I’d very much like to travel with you both.” Mara said, attempting to keep up her confidence. She then remembered Rowan’s enthusiastic outburst about becoming best friends — ”But… Never mind. It doesn’t matter.”

She paused, and smiled convincingly at the both of them. They didn’t need to know her doubts that they would become the best of friends.

And besides, Rowan’s purrloin was rather adorably mysterious. Mara couldn’t help but giggle slightly when it started vocalizing, looking at the cat pokemon fondly. Perhaps this wouldn’t be the worst idea. Who knew what would happen, anyways?

---

Location: Dewmeadow
Current Team:

• Kira the Espurr
  
  Status: N/A
  Level: 5

Inventory: Potion (1), Pokedollars (500), Dogwood Pokedex, Dogwood Ball (1)

The professor nodded at Rowan, giving him a faint smile. The longer he stuck around, the more the boy reminded him of himself as a child. His hand caressed the door frame and his chin rested on his shoulder, watching the group instantly become friends. They'd go far. “I’m sure if y’all stick together, this group could accomplish anything,” Dogwood said.

With a wave and a smile, the professor left the three of you inside the terminal room, going to work on any of the infinite inventions contained in his laboratory. Despite the group’s silence, the room was anything but. Pistons shrieked, cogs whirred, and the terminal appeared to be downloading data constantly. Its scratchy, digital blips blended in surprisingly well to the factory environment. The whole experience was a sort of song, a strange symphony of nuts and bolts. It couldn’t be denied that Dogwood, albeit quirky, was brilliant and a visionary. He likely appreciated the arts as much as he did the sciences. A song of technology proved it. It was interesting, the dichotomies he represented. Lover of studying Pokémon, cool, calm, collected, but sometimes fearful up close. Building an urban environment in a rural habitat. It made you question Dogwood’s origins, and why he was even there in the first place. Why build like this? And why here? Why study Pokémon at all?

The living laboratory was interrupted by your proposals, breaking the barrier of ice that separated the three of you from talking. The bond was formed amidst the clanking, banging, mashing infrastructure of metal and steel. Your group was strong, and could only be reinforced with time, dedication, care, and effort. You wondered where the three of you would go, who you would meet, and where you would end up. Which among you was the Pokémon master, if any of you? Who was the most clever? The brave one? The glue that held the team together? Or did each of you have parts of each of these things? Whatever the case, the team from Dewmeadow set out, representing The Dogwood Company in profession and status.

About an hour had passed when you stepped outside, the sun only rising about the width of a finger if you held your hand in front of you. There was no sign of the children who were playing tag from before. The people of Dewmeadow were wide awake at this point, conversing on porches and transporting goods to neighbors or working the fields for harvest. And just as you turned to set out on the wide, earthen trail that led from the meadow, you were interrupted by a sharp cry from behind the laboratory.

An old melody you’d heard from childhood, the Benny Hill theme song, played in your head as the three youngsters and their Pokémon rushed from the mechanical beast that was Dogwood’s laboratory. The game of tag had evolved into a 6-player game, the young trainers attempting to catch their equally enthusiastic Pokémon. The boy with the green-banded safari hat and butterfly net was sprinting after a Caterpie. The Caterpie squeed in delight, scooting at surprising speed through the blades of grass that rivaled its height. The girl in white and black uniform skipped toward a long-haired Oddish. The Oddish hopped on its heals, zigzagging away from the enthusiastic junior. Leading the pack was the blonde lass in pink dress, sprinting with arms outstretched towards an abnormally fluffy Mareep.

“Eep! Reeeeep!” the Mareep cooed, galloping just out of reach from its trainer. Small discharges of electricity coursed through the bountiful hills of its fur.

The rag-tag group ended up circling you, falling as ashes after a game of ring-around-the-rosy. They took deep breaths in sync with their Pokémon, exhausted from their hour-long session of hyperactivity.

“Hey!”

Well, not too exhausted, you supposed.

The blonde-haired girl in pink dress twisted upward, spinning into a stance. She couldn’t have been older than ten, her face child-like in wonder. Her rosy dimples were accentuated as she spoke. They wiggled with each syllable said.

“We should battle! And, uh, if you lose, you have to play tag with us!” She exclaimed. The other two young trainers sprung to their feet and nodded, laughing between breaths. They showed their approval by taking stances and having their Pokémon line up in front of them.

“Deal?”

Bartholomew

Unable to stomach anymore reading, especially after the absurdly rude and strange looks he got from the librarian for simply testing his maniacal laughter in the middle of the library. Instead proceeding to head straight for another reason he greatly enjoyed going to this particular library, sitting down in a corner of the room, leaning forward resting his arms on one of the tables where they had a glass chess set, already perfectly set up. Waiting silently, looking at the antique clock on the wall nearby him every couple of minutes, straightening his tie and whatever else he could do for a distraction. “What is taking them so all long?” finally someone he had been waiting for had finally returned as suddenly a small brown sack starting floating quickly toward him, which he noticed it coming forward. Reaching out and taking from the middle of the air, with a pleasant smile. Checking the bag seeing it had some money inside, placing both things inside his pocket.“Good job dear, back inside you go.” Pulling out a pokeball and returning the still invisible pokemon back inside their ball.

Bartholomew/Charlotte

Spotting Charlotte playfully skipping toward him with a smiling face, hopping up to the adjacent seat across from him. “Charlotte darling, so thrilled that you decided to arrive and only several minutes late.” He replied sarcastically yet his tone sounded so charming and delightful, you could almost perceive that he wasn't slightly annoyed. Charlotte giggled some nervously rubbing the back of her head, seemingly unable to sit still, wiggling her feet. “Sorry, some old couple that ran a bakery in town needing some help getting their store sign down...because a letter fell down-” Charlotte replied looking at his rather disinterested face, head resting on his head. “Tragic...did you take advantage of the situation and rob them blind?” Bartholomew muttered apathetically. “Well uh no...” Charlotte softly replied. “But! They gave me a free cream doughnut.” She stated with a smile. He just let out a small sigh as he looked at her seemingly seriously picking up one of the black pawns on the side of his table and set it in the middle of the board. “Forgive me for being inquisitive, but do you know what that piece is called dear?” He questions while she nodded some. “That's the pawn.” She answered.

“Correct, and every single time you do a good deed without taking full advantage of it. That's exactly what you become.” He replied. “You become a chess piece?” She responds sounding confused, yet smiling. He rolls his eyes and leans back into his chair unamused looking back up at the clock briefly. “Do know how to play darling?” He asks looking back at her as she eagerly nodded once again.“Excellent,” He stated returning the black pawn into it's proper position on the board. “Let's play...” He offers smiling confidently as she wiggles about still in her seat. “Sure, I'll start.” She replies picking up on her pieces seemingly randomly placing it on the board. “Your turn.” She adds. As time passes as he carefully examines the board with every move pondering all the vast options this board has, while she moves a piece nearly immediately after her turn begins as pieces from both sides start to leave the board. He smiled looking at the board, waiting for Charlotte to make her move as she finally didn't move right away, he was certain he had her beat.

“The thing about chess is that it accurately shows someone's intellect, and personal experience. The pieces all moving across the board, but in the end only one person can be the king. You have to make some sacrifices to succeed. Sure, it may be fun to play as mere novices, but it unlike no other game is the perfect example of showing someone's extravagant talent. When all the pieces come together and they finally w-” He continues to speak until she moves the next piece. “Checkmate.” She interjects, as he suddenly looks down at the board with a dumbfounded look, looking at her as she just smiled at him. Flashing her smile as he sat himself upright. “Let's sit somewhere more comfortable and while we wait for the others shall we?” He suggested as she hopped up and continuing to bounce enthusiastically as headed for the sofas.

---

After waiting far too long for his patience to endure. Bartholomew gave up and finally just finished explaining his plan to Charlotte, who was finally sitting more still expect she was sitting upside down, head hanging close to the floor. He crossed his arms some, shaking his head. “So, how do you feel about my plan? I still can't believe neither Myles or Elle came.” He questions sounding mildly frustrated. “Sounded fine to me, I'm sure Myles has a really good reason to why he didn't show.” She answered back cheerfully.

---

Myles

Meanwhile somewhere on a public bench, loud snoring could be heard as people passed by paying no attention to the man passed out. Nobody around able to muster the courage or nerve to bother waking nor disturbing him.

---

“Maybe...” He murmured. “But probably not...” He thought to himself able to accurately guess he most likely got pissed drunk and passed out somewhere again, hung up on exactly what was taking Elle so long. Casually pulling out his phone pressing a single button having them on speed dial, holding the phone up to his ear listening it continue to ring.

Elle

“You cannot win against me.” She replied sending one swift punch after another, hitting with full impact, staring down what was swaying back and forth. Grabbing the punch bag and stopping it as she stop to catch her breathe hearing her pokemon still going at, still fighting inside the ring. She walks carefully over toward her bag giving the minimal lighting she had that allowed her to see without being to obvious she was a place that was closed. Going through her bag which was rather cluttered pulling out several great balls. Pulling out a water bottle, and opens to take a drink from it before returning everything back to her bag seeing the phone with several missed calls and messages.

“Oops...” She stated just realizing she'd completely forgot about his request to meet the group, she quickly ran to return her pokemon hoping she could make it their before the left. Stealthy exiting the building before running straight into Myles. Looking slightly confused and the same time relieved that she wasn't the only one going straight up to him lifting up his head and letting go as it plummeted with a audible thud back onto the table. Letting out a big sigh when that failed to actually wake him up...

---

All things considered, this was a good day. Another trainer separated from his junk Pokemon, another Pokemon in tears as the dumb thing choked on the poison. This wasn't his first casualty today, nor was it gonna be his last. He had orders from higher up today, and it was his pleasure to do this. This wasn't a chore to him, it was like being asked to sit down and watch TV. After all, they got too curious where he was living, and dead men tell no tales.

It was another lovely day, a Pikachu and Machoke had fallen. He silently chuckled, must have ma-choked on the poison. He almost forgot about the trainer crying on his knees. Poor guy must have thought the beating would end when they fainted, that wasn't how he did things. If the trash lost, they didn't deserve the mercy of life. If he let the trainer live, he would spread the word. The Bloody Hand don't take kindly to intruders and he was proof of what happens when you cross him. Heh, he almost had a feeling of pity, better end his life before it grows. Another order of toxic, and the trainer fell to the ground. Wonder why they keep coming?

He gave a pat on the head to his Weezing. Despite it's constant complaints of something in it's throat, if it had one that is, it always delivered. His favorite target dummy, ready to jump into the shot for mutual loss. The thing was a good sponge and an even better bomb. He turned to the dying trainer, and asked him where he heard of this place. The toxic must have been too much, because he already passed out. A few more minutes and he would die. He couldn't help but smile.

He turned to leave the alleyway, no doubt someone will find the body, but it will be too late. He made sure of that, personally. Lost in the fight, he forgot to ask the question before they died. That makes the third one today, maybe another will show up looking for this one. Something nagged at his mind, he forgot something, no idea what is was though. He coughed violently, remembering it quickly. He was too close to the poison cloud again, he reached quickly for one of many antidotes on his belt. A quick stab and he felt a lot better, that was a close one. Now back to his business...

Inventory:
Antidote X?

Pokemon:
Weezing

---

"Thank you for the trade. I hope you enjoy your Pidgeot." Ryan looked down at the Pokeball holding Rufflet. It was a good thing the trainer hadn't cared about his future strength, just her current strength. Braviary was a very powerful flyer. Ryan though back to the last time a rare had been this easy. Usually he had to battle them for their Pokemon, and even then they usually didn't give them up easily. Even giving out his consolation prizes when he wins usually didn't make them happy. He could see why of course, but his needs for the Pokemon was more important then their wants. He got on his Team Legacy Pokedex and called The Left Hand.
"Yes?"
"Guess what I just got my hands on?"
"You know how much I like guessing games, Ryan. I just can't resist. How many questions?"
Ryan rolled his eyes. The Head of Team Legacy must be in the room with her. At least this meant he could have a bit of fun though."How about five? Or is that too hard for you?"
"Hard? 5 may be too easy. Is it a Flying type?
Ryan looked at the Pokedex suspiciously, once again she guesses the type right away. He wasn't sure how she did it. Yet. "Yes, it is a flying type."
"I'm assuming that is is a basic form correct? Oh, and it must be a rather Big bird. So I'm going to guess... Rufflet?"
Ryan was flabbergasted. She had never guessed one quiet so quickly. He quickly thought back to his last call and realized why. "Crap, I told you in my last call, didn't I? Yes, I have a Rufflet now. I will send it over later tonight. Bye." Ryan was actually irritated enough with himself that he had hung up on her. She wouldn't mind though, he had brought her another Rare.

---

Matthew finished his battle with Officer Jenny and her backup, called back his Pokemon and continued on his way. Didn't they ever learn? He had a schedule to keep, and they were in his way. Matthew looked at the Pokelab he was looking to break into. there was maybe three minutes until the security system was back up. That was plenty of time. Matthew called over his headset, " Team A go. 30 Seconds. Team B go in 15. Watch yourself Team A, the guard is a second late. Team C get ready, your up in 2 minutes. Remember people, timing is everything." He knew they were tired of hearing it, but he also knew they would deal with it, he had a reputation after all, and this mission could allow them to locate the secret to making a Master Ball. Of course, it could be just another dead end, but any chance was worth it to the Boss, and Team Legacy.
Matthew wished that he didn't keep getting handed these jobs. But he was the best, so when a job had to succeed, then they brought him in. Usually. When they didn't bring Her in. He could remember the last job they ran together two years ago. They had gone in after a Rare artifact that was rumoured to hold the key to a legendary Pokemon, and instead of listening to him, she had gone off and done her own thing, nearly causing them both to be caught, and the mission to fail. He had gone back by himself three days later and completed the mission of course, only to find that she had beaten him to the punch. He decided not to let that happen ever again.