"And, that's the story."

  Ellie's hands stroked Mudkip's fin with an absent mind. Only when she finally reached the climax of her tale, did she raise her eyes to meet Lucas's, fresh with life. A small smile painted her features. The same fake one she had told of in her story. But, Lucas knew it was an act. The tears she shed trying to recall the full story spoke volumes.

  Lucas stared at Ellie for a moment. Not sure what to respond after so long of just remaining in silence, only ever asking leading questions, or offering a hug when things got too tough. That continued now, offering his arms. Ellie considered it for a moment, then huddled Mudkip from her lap, letting her chin collapse onto Lucas' shoulder.

  "I had no idea you went through all that," Lucas muttered, without thinking of where he could possibly go beyond that. Really, he couldn't ever be prepared for just what Ellie had been through. All he could offer was generic. "I'm...I'm sorry."

  "You don't need to-" Ellie stopped, letting out a tired breath. It'd be easier to accept it. "Thank you."

  The silence settled between them. Lucas, without anything to say, could only hope the tighter hug would suffice. And, it did, for a time. But, Ellie's mind settled back to that place. Then, to current events, the still of the reporter still flickering upon the television.

  "I hoped it'd be one time. One bad lot to be dealt with. But, he's still kicking." Ellie broke free from the hug, bringing Mudkip into her arms. Zorua clung to its fluff blooded brethren, still deep in sleep from when Lucas carried it into the room. They thanked the stars for its slumber. No doubt, if it had heard what was being discussed, it'd have been restless all night.

  Torchic stuck to Lucas' shoulder like glue, its feather tickling against the soft locks of his hair. Lucas chuckled, rustling the bird's orange coat. It hadn't understood much of what was being talked about. It'd woken up halfway through. But, it gathered everything through the flux of Lucas' expressions. And, whenever Mudkip intervened into the story, whimpering in the pain of memories, or crying in anger at letting itself get trodden over for so many years.

  Ralts placed a hand on Ellie's. Nodding with certainty, a small smile coming onto its face. Ellie didn't quite understand why. But, it seemed something like a weight had been lifted from Ralts' shoulders. Letting everything out, leaving nothing else of this occasion a secret. It nodded, then returned to its Pokeball. Ellie let out a lofty breath. Lucas' eyes drifted away from his starter, back to his friend.

  "Do you think they were part of Team Storm then?"

  "Well, my memory of the details is hazy. Not that it's ever really clear." Ellie let out a humourless chuckle. "But, I'd say no. Just another fight club. Twisted, decrepit, but ultimately isolated. The place is abandoned. But, the idea is still there. Gladius is still without justice, allied for that organisation is."

  The conversation fizzled into complete silence. Melting away, until they're left with the faint hum of the TV in the background. Lucas gently lowered Torchic from his shoulder, letting his fingers gently comb through the chick's fur. Thoughts of the future flutter in his mind. But, all are filled with uncertainty. What once was a concrete plan in his mind fumbles to waves of incoming disaster. Or, at least, what feels like it.

  "What are we going to do then?" he asks, seeking Ellie's help. She doesn't answer for a time, as clueless as Lucas. So, he continues. "If they're still out there, will they be looking for us? Since we've messed with their plans...three times now."

  Ellie responded with nothing once more, deep in thought, attempting to construct an answer out of the unknown. But, that proved impossible. Mudkip sat up, pressing its paws against her sweater. Ellie settled it back down again, rubbing its fin.

  "I don't have an answer. I'd hope not, but..." Ellie trailed off for a moment, then looked to Lucas. "We needed six of us to take down even one of his Pokemon. And, Toxicroak wasn't even his strongest. That's..." Ellie chuckled. A light, humourless one, trying to find ease amongst the tension stuffed in her heart. "That's terrifying. If they do try to seek us out, we can't possibly hope to beat them again."

  "But, we can't just give up, can we?" Lucas' eyes drifted towards Zorua. Sleeping, immune to the trials and tribulations of their conversation. But, Lucas knew well enough how Zorua would feel. Trapped in a Pokeball, as a domesticated pet, without any guarantee of its families' safety? It wouldn't bode well for the Dark type. Nor for Lucas. "I have to keep going. This is something bigger than myself. This is for Zorua."

  Lucas' hand gently combed the Dark type's fur. The fox mewed under his touch, clenching tighter to the plushie. All limbs wrapped around it, clinging with the intention to never let go. As much solace as it brought the illusionist, Lucas couldn't help but feel his heart tighten every time Zorua clung to it like that. It never should've been forced to make do with an imitation. Only the real thing. In the comfort of its home.

  "Lucas?"

  Ellie's words cut through Lucas' thoughts. The boy blinked twice, then smiled, resetting the expression that he'd let fall. "Ellie?" he responded with a slight cut of cheek, trying to approach with levity to beat away the raging thoughts. Ellie looked away, glancing to the light shining above. Then, she shifted her whole body to face Lucas, hand almost reaching out. But, she stopped at the last second. Just made eye contact, and let her thoughts roam free.

  "Are you sure you're ready for that?"

  Lucas stopped for a moment. His heart thudded in a way he couldn't quite explain. His eyes traced Ellie's. She turned away, finding no malice, but still discomfort in the long stare.

  "I know you want to help. I want to as well. But...we're nothing, in the grand scheme of things. We're only fourteen." Ellie turned again, finally mustering the courage to look him in the eyes. "What if we're in over our heads?"

  "We are." Lucas answered, the smile slipping for a moment, before coming back stronger than ever. "But, I don't wanna sit back and do nothing. Not while knowing that Zorua's family is suffering. Knowing that there are other Pokemon just like it, suffering."

  His eyes make contact with Mudkip's. The Water type reaches its head up to meet Lucas' eyes. They share the same glint. "Like how Mudkip suffered once." his eyes returned to Ellie. "We'll get stronger. Do whatever we can to help. We'll figure everything out, I'm sure."

  Ellie chuckled, making eye contact. "You really believe it, don't you?"

  "Of course."

  "Well..." Ellie sighed, looking up to the ceiling. "I don't wanna give up either. I'll help wherever I can. It's the least I can do. Plus, I can't have you running off and getting yourself into trouble."

  Lucas chuckled. "That's the exact reason my mom made me get someone to travel with me."

  "Well, you made a good choice then," Ellie hummed with pride, her eyes flickering down to Mudkip. "Still, we need some sort of plan, if they do ever come after us. We might be enough to hold them off eventually. But, for now? We'd be lucky to scrape away."

  "Maybe we get someone else to tag along?"

  "Harry?" Ellie made a call on who else. Lucas thought for a moment.

  "Harry would be awesome to have come along, but I was thinking someone more experienced than all of us."

  Ellie's eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Go on..."

  The city seemed quieter.

  The lovely elder who sold them the Pokepuffs remained as jovial as ever. But, the number of people queueing for the delectable treats proved much thinner. Not a real complaint. Eased the agonising wait just to get their pastries. But, it did paint a different picture of the city. Different than the one they first stepped into. It felt smothered with fog. Or, the smoke of a burning gym building. Choking out the town.

  The universe had even afforded them a table near to the cafe. Three seats for three trainers. Then, eleven Pokepuffs for all people and Pokemon. Each tucked into their Pokepuffs with vigour, just as they had before. Most had the same selection as before. Only Treecko and Ralts had switched around their choices. Treecko, gaining an appetite for the Pecha Berry Pokepuff it had been given by Ralts. Then, the Psychic type opting for chocolate, satisfying an itch that'd been at the back of its mind ever since it got its mitts on Harry's Pokepuff.

  "You guys were right." Harry licked the ends of his fingers free of chocolate frosting, polishing off the last of his pastry. "These Pokepuffs are really good."

  "Told ya! Too bad you couldn't have got a taste earlier," Lucas commented.

  "I'm ok with it. After all..." Harry's eyes trailed down towards the ground floor, where the Pokemon convened for eating together. There, surrounded by smiling faces, stood the Feeling Pokemon, lips smothered in chocolate frosting. The Pokemon hadn't even noticed the frosting running a ring around its mouth, until it felt the stares of three adoring trainers, eyes shimmering.

  "Oh my Arceus!" Lucas exclaimed, as Ellie made a quick grab for her phone, snapping photos before Ralts could cotton on and ruin its (unintentionally) adorable appearance. Ralts was quick on the ball, shuddering then combusting into a Psychic energy. But, Ellie snatched one clear photo, giggling like a child at the sight, eternally stored for safekeeping. Ralts soon reappeared, careful not to still be in the limelight. But, her phone had gone, and Ellie picked up the Psychic type, rubbing the last of the frosting from its face.

  "Must've really fancied a Pokepuff, hm?" Ellie brushed over Ralts' fin, the Psychic shuddering, before its expression stretched into a smile. "Although, I can imagine our teeth must be rotting with all the pastries we've been eating though."

  "Gotta make the most of it!" Lucas chirped, letting Torchic back onto his shoulder, having just recently finished its own pastry. "Can't have the best Pokepuffs in the region right at our doorstep and not eat 'em everyday."

  "The best Pokepuffs? That's what the lady told you?" Harry's eyebrow raised in suspicion.

  "Yup! And, I'll be super surprised if she isn't right!" Lucas pointed a finger at Harry. "Bet you can't find a better one in the whole region."

  "That's a bet I'll be willing to take, if you're willing to put something on the line. Would be fun to take more of your money." Harry smirked at Lucas, who opened his mouth to respond, before settling to just pout over his lost Pokedollars. "Wonder if I'll find any in Rustboro. Take your money sooner rather than later."

  "Speaking of Rustboro," Ellie cut in. "What are your plans for getting there?"

  "I mean, besides walking?" Harry smirked, eyes shifting towards Ellie.

  "You know what I mean," Ellie sighed, resisting the urge to roll her eyes.

  "Well, I was planning on making my way out pretty soon." Harry leaned back in his chair, giving his barking, attention hungry puppy a stroke on its head. "I appreciate that the cities grieving with the loss of their gym and all. But, I'd rather not stick around in a place that just seems so...defeated. So, I think I'll head out today, actually."

  "Can't blame you. Petalburg's certainly seen better days," Ellie murmured.

  "What about you guys then?"

  "We're planning on staying until we know Seijo's back to good health," Lucas chirped. "Figured we could use the time off, after everything that's happened."

  "Of course, makes sense. Send Seijo my condolences. Would've really loved a battle, before everything went to shit."

  Harry couldn't think of anything more to add. Neither could the other two. His eyes trailed down to his two Pokemon, now fully finished with both their pastries. Treecko coiled its way along his outstretched arm, finding a spot on his shoulder.

  "Well, I guess I'll make use of that time you'll be out of action to get my training in!" Harry stood up from the table with a smile, looking to Lucas. "Next fight's gonna be mine. Best friends or not, you're still my rival."

  "Ah yes..." Lucas spoke in a posher tone, eyes sharpened, staring into Harry's. His voice dropped an octave, almost to the point of needing to cough. "The most bitter of rivals."

  Their cold stare held. Red meeting blue. Crashing waves erupting against a blazing inferno. Locked in a battle of intense, prolonged eye contact.

  Of which Lucas couldn't maintain more than five seconds of, before bursting out laughing.

  "That's the weakest staring contest I think I've ever seen." Ellie couldn't help but chuckle, watching as Lucas broke down into hysterics.

  "I'm sorry, I can't help it! I'm never that serious!" Lucas attempted to defend himself amidst wheezy breaths.

  "Same as always," Harry rolled his eyes, strolling to Lucas' side. A hand outstretched helped his friend to his feet. Then, they embraced in a tight hug. "See you around."

  "Yup! Meet up in Rustboro?"

  "Sounds good to me." Harry broke from the hug, moving onto Ellie next, extending his hand. "Nice meeting you."

  "Of course, nice meeting you too!" Ellie shook his hand in response.

  "Just, promise to keep taking care of Lucas, even when his dumbass makes it hard."

  "Hey, I pull my weight! I help out, don't act like I'm leeching."

  "Need I remind you of your first attempt at tent making?" Ellie teased.

  "Wait, tent making? What happened there?" Harry turned, suddenly more interested in sticking around for longer.

  "Nothing much!" Lucas interrupted, just as Ellie opened her mouth. Then, he gently pushed Harry along. "Well, you said you gotta be going!"

  "Well, if you're that insistent on me leaving so soon..." Harry teased, Poochyena running to his side, barking at Lucas, telling him to back off. But, the dog soon melted under Harry's touch, its tail wagging. Treecko hopped from atop its trainers shoulder to the bed of brown hair atop Harry's head. Harry ruffled the top of its head, then stuck up a peace sign. "See ya around."

  "Take care!" Lucas shouted, Ellie gently waving, as Harry set off for the border of the town. They watched until he disappeared behind the line of people, and out of sight.

  "Surprised you didn't push more for him to join us, considering how much you talk of him," Ellie commented, beginning to pack up her things.

  "Well, if he's got plans, I'd rather not interfere," Lucas commented, turning to Ellie. "Plus, we'll meet up at Rustboro and hang out there. We've got time."

  Ellie stopped for a moment, slinging her duffel bag over her shoulder.

  "You think he'll be safe?"

  "I...I hope so." Lucas stared out at the edge of the town. Then, broke free of his thought. "He will be. I'm sure of it."

  Ellie stopped for a moment, fingers tapping against the box of Pokepuffs, with two pastries still kept inside. Getting up from her chair, she brushed Lucas' shoulder with her own. "Think we should get a move on with delivering these, then?"

  "Of course, let's get to it!" Lucas chirped, with Torchic following along in his chorus. The six, with their bellies full of sugar, made their way forward. Mudkip trodded by Ellie's side, Ralts waddling on the other, while Zorua nuzzled into Lucas' chest, caught in a warm hammock of the young boy's arms. Their glances briefly caught the sight of the destroyed gym. Machamp and other bulky Fighting types helped lift the heavy debris, chucked into a large truck to be discarded elsewhere.

  Some crowds continued to gather around, watching the work. A few camera crews remained nearby, continuously reporting on the story of how the 'Petalburg Gym fell to ruin'. Police hurried on most onlookers, but a few remained regardless, demanding answers. The children had more answers than anyone. But, slipped by without notice, until they reached the Pokemon Centre.

  Flipping past the curtain, they expected to see it as busy as usual. But, it remained quiet. Not without its influx of patients. But, most seemed human related, rather than Pokemon injuries. No doubt from the lack of the gym battles. Some nurses even appeared bored. The nurse behind the desk leaned against the desk, fingers tapping against the surface, awaiting something happening. So, when the curtain flapped open, and Ellie and Lucas walked in, he stood up straight with a bright smile.

  Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

  "Hi, nice to see you again! What can we do for you?" he spoke in his accustomed tone.

  "We'd like to speak to Seijo, if that's ok?" Lucas asked. The nurse sighed. Just about the only thing he couldn't help with.

  "I'm sorry, but Seijo asked not to be seen by anyone right now."

  "Is everything okay?" Ellie asked.

  "Yes, he's stable. Just wants some peace and quiet, I believe. If you have anything to give him, I can pass it onto him if you'd like."

  "Are you sure you can't make an exception?" Lucas pressed on.

  "Lucas, let's just give him the Pokepuffs and go. We can always come back another day." Ellie placed the Pokepuffs onto the counter.

  "I know but..." Lucas slid the box along, looking Nurse Joy in the eyes. "Tell him it's from us, and we wanna talk. But, if he doesn't want to, that's fine."

  "Alright, will do." Nurse Joy took the boxed pastries, disappearing into a backroom. Then, only a few minutes later, emerged. A brisk pace accompanied his step, running to the edge of the desk. "He agreed."

  "Awesome!" Lucas gently nudged Ellie, who seemed cautiously sceptical of how much Seijo truly wanted to see them. But, if he allowed them passage, they'd take it without a second thought. With a flip of a button, the desk opened up, the two walking by Nurse Joy through the long corridors of the Pokemon Centre. The smell of antiseptic oozed out of every corner, inescapable no matter which way you turned. The clinically white environment was inescapable too, all blending together, making it feel as if they travelled no distance at all.

  But, they soon arrived.

  "I'll leave you to it." Nurse Joy bowed, then quickly made his exit. A quick wave, then they were alone. With only the entranceway in front of them, tightly shut, small windows carved into the door. Ellie's hand squeezed tightly around the handle, before letting the door gently open, creaking until it reached a doorstop.

  Lucas stepped inside, finally letting out the breath he hadn't anticipated holding. There, in front of him, sat the gym leader. Once standing so tall. A bright smile on his face, ready to challenge the world. But, the boy couldn't help but feel his heart sink upon seeing him. Sat on the bed, resting his head against a pillow, not moving a muscle. Lucas could see Seijo's desire to bound from his bed and run for the hills. In every wiggle of his fingers, tapping against the bed. Desperate to be out of his shell already. But, he couldn't.

  "Hello Seijo." Lucas anticipated bringing more energy to his greeting, at least when he formed the idea in his head. But, standing in front of the gym leader again, he couldn't bring himself to do it. "I-I hope you don't mind us coming in."

  "Now's a good time as any, I suppose," Seijo craned his neck towards the pink cardboard box sat atop the bedside table. "I appreciate the gift. Although, I may wait to eat it. Until someone comes by, at least."

  The room fell into silence. A sound the gym leader had become more than comfortable with in the past couple days. But, with the presence of guests, he so desperately wanted to avoid it.

  "Have a seat, you two." A single finger pointed towards two chairs in the corner of the room. Each pushed the chair closer to the bed, then sat down. Ellie tapped the side of the chair, before speaking.

  "If you don't mind me asking, how bad is it?"

  Seijo chuckled. "Permanent paralysis. I'll never walk again."

  Silence. Without anything more to say. How could one even respond to that? Ellie's eyes drifted to the ground, unable to make eye contact. Lucas couldn't stop staring. Glassy, and unfocused at first. Before his eyes drifted to Seijo's. But, they never met. The gym leader was too busy staring at the ceiling.

  "No chance of recovery? They really believe it's permanent?" Lucas asked, vaguely hoping for some relief, some chance things would turn out ok.

  "Oh, they don't believe it's permanent. In fact, I made that up. I'm not paralysed."

  ...

  "You WHAT?"

  Ellie jumped from her seat, face flush. Seijo couldn't stop laughing. But, winces of pain soon forced him to settle down into small chuckles, relaxing his body again. "Now is not the time to make jokes!"

  "Oh come on, I have to have some fun with this!" Seijo's head tilted to meet Ellie's furious expression. "Do you know how mind numbingly boring it is to be trapped in bed, and all anyone can give is condolences and vague attempts at therapy? I already know its fucked up, better than anyone in fact! I don't need everyone reminding me constantly. Makes conversation drier than a Heliolisk's skin." the man took a deep breath in, chest rising and falling. "Sorry you two had to be the ones to hear it. Just needed to laugh."

  "I-" Ellie sighed, flopping back into the seat. "What's the actual damage then?"

  "Fracture on the spine. With lots of rest, and a few Chansey eggs, I should be back up and running in a week or two. They told me it could've been a lot worse, and I'm surprised it's not. But, I suppose I deserved a small blessing in the midst of all of..." Seijo gestured as well as he could at the room. Blank, medically pure stillness. "This."

  "How's Crobat?"

  "Supposedly coming along well. Haven't seen it personally. But, from what I hear, it'll be here tomorrow. I look forward to it. Given Crobat's my only real company left." Seijo's voice trailed off a little, fingers tapping against the bed. Then, his eyes settled onto a third chair sat in the corner, empty of any person. "Speaking of company, where's your friend?"

  "Harry's just left Rustboro today. Said that he..." Lucas stopped for a moment, omitting the condolences. "He really wanted to battle against you."

  "The feeling's mutual. If he was anything like you two, it'd have been a worthy battle indeed." Seijo snapped his fingers, thinking. "Technically, I could give those without a gym badge a battle, since I still have Taillow and Vigoroth. But, I don't think the League will accept that. They'll probably just omit the Petalburg requirements for any future tournaments. At least for a year."

  "I can't imagine you'd be too fond of just doing those battles either."

  "Right on." Seijo snapped his fingers again, then craned his neck towards the two. "Well, how about you two? You gonna follow Harry's footsteps? Head to Rustboro?"

  "We were actually planning on sticking in Petalburg for a bit." Ellie answered.

  "What for? Just taking a break?"

  "Well, the plan was to wait until you recovered!" Lucas answered a little bluntly, but with as much energy as he could muster.

  "That's..." Seijo hesitated for a moment. "...sweet. But, you're better off leaving all this in the past. Pursuing your adventure. You've both got a lot to do, a lot of potential. No point wasting away in this old city."

  Lucas opened his mouth again, but Ellie beat him to it. "What do you plan on doing after you've finished healing, then?"

  "Physical therapy."

  "Not what I meant."

  "I know." Seijo chuckled, before returning to his eyes to the ceiling, letting out a long pff as he attempted to formulate plans for the future. "Not sure, to be honest with you. Every other time in my life, I've had a reason to keep moving forward. Working for my own survival. But, the League is paying my salary, even while I'm not doing gym leader work. So, theoretically, I could sit around at home, and just do nothing."

  Ellie leaned forward slightly. "Would you be content with that?"

  "Obviously not. I don't like the idea of rotting away on the couch one bit. Life without purpose isn't for me. But, now that the gym's gone, and most my Pokemon are too, what else do I have?"

  Ellie turned to Lucas, gesturing with her head for him to go ahead. She'd spoken enough. Now, Lucas had his time to shine. To sit up from his chair, move closer, looking over the gym leader.

  "Come with us."

  "I-I'm sorry?"

  "The truth is...this isn't the first time we've encountered those criminals from the gym. For Ellie, it's her third time." Lucas' eyes trailed down to Zorua, cradled in his arms. Whimpering, claws digging into his jacket. "For me, it's my second. First time was with this Zorua."

  "Zorua's entire family was stolen. I tried to stop them. I failed."

  "My starter, Mudkip, was once a Pokemon of the admin who attacked us at the gym. Abused, starving, nothing more than a tool for battle." Ellie picked her starter up from the floor. "Mudkip was saved. But, there are countless Pokemon who aren't as lucky. Still suffering at the hands of that organisation."

  "That's why we're moving forward. Ellie and I both have a common goal in that. Take them down, do whatever we can to make sure they don't hurt Pokemon ever again." Lucas' eyes met Seijo's again. "You've had your entire life upturned by them. Pokemon stolen, gym destroyed. We can help each other. You can help us get stronger, we'll help try and track down your missing Pokemon."

  Seijo thought for a moment, breaking away from Lucas' eyes. Then, returned to his sapphire orbs. "These people aren't to be messed with, you know? They're dangerous criminals. You shouldn't be doing the work of rangers or the police, you're just asking for trouble."

  Lucas' expression didn't falter.

  "But, you aren't going to stop seeking out trouble just because I'm not there, are you?"

  Lucas shook his head. Ellie didn't move. But, her expression spoke enough.

  "Of course." Seijo chuckled, head leaning further into the comfort of the hospital pillows. "You drive a hard bargain. I truly don't have anything to do. Little to lose. Plus, I wanna make those bastards pay as much as you do." Seijo took a deep breath, stowing his anger. "I'll do it. Just on one condition."

  "Let's hear it."

  "You guys don't forget to be kids. You go around, challenging the gyms, travelling to different places, meeting new people. You have the adventure you deserve, and we help out with the whole evil team situation when we can." Seijo's arm outstretched, wincing slightly with the pain. But, ultimately, his hand settled in front of Lucas, palm open. "Deal?"

  "Deal!" Lucas gently shook his hand, so as to not upset his back even more. Ellie took the handshake soon enough too. "Thank you so much. You won't regret it, I promise."

  "Think nothing of it. I've been meaning to travel around the region anyways, might as well move with a little bit of purpose." Seijo gestured towards the door. "Now, off you go. I miss the silence, and would like to bask in it for a few hours more."

  "Alright, we'll be back tomorrow to check up on you and Crobat." Lucas announced, as Ellie sat up from the chair. People and Pokemon exited the room, most with happy faces. Then, once the door clicked behind them, Seijo swore he could hear the thundering sound of a high five echo down the hallway, followed by cheers of celebration. But, that could just be his imagination.

  Either way, he smiled.

  "Move it along!"

  Orders barked from the back lines. Gladius' throat hadn't yet gone coarse with the giving of commands. But, he felt himself without great ambition to continue anyways. The most lethargic task, only eased by the fact it would be the last task of this operation.

  Grunts rushed among the place, carrying Pokeballs, as well as Pokemon trapped in nets. You didn't see the usual Slakings or occasional Snorlax being hauled around by the grunts, however. Those were far too valuable, and dangerous, to be let loose. To be sold as soon as possible. Or, used as battle training. They'd certainly fight for their life, trapped in an entirely different location, facing people they've never seen, using tactics they hadn't seen since their time in the wilds.

  No, these Pokemon were the smaller ones. The Spindas, Taillows, Porygons. Some tried to resist. At least, those who hadn't had their brains fried into temporary vegetation. And, of those who attempted to resist, a number would meet that fate. Shocked with electricity, until their bodies fell limp.

  A few tried kindness. One grunt in the midst ogled a small Ferret. Trapped in the net, yet choosing to respond to the grunt with warmness, letting out happy trills. The grunt fished her hand through the net, brushing against its fur.

  Gladius' eyes beat into her. For a short time, until she finally noticed his stare. Her heart thudded so loudly the admin could almost hear it from the back lines. A quick shock startled the Furret. Then, she slung the Pokémon into a pod. An attempt to act tough, that she hadn't been enamoured by the creature. But, the shudder her body gave as the Furret thudded against the back wall told of her empathy.

  A good lesson. Her empathy got the Furret more hurt than it should've. Let that thought guide her forward.

  "Once the Pokémon is inside, put the Pokeball in the hole beside it! It should lock automatically!" Gladius barked out another command. His eyes kept track of every member of the organization. Not one Pokeball should be left loose. All should lock with a satisfying click. And, all soon did.

  The white doors behind Gladius slid open. From the clacks of her boots alone, Gladius could tell who he'd have the displeasure of dealing with. He held back the sigh he was oh so tempted to let out.

  "Seems everything's going peachy, hm?" Lilith strolled to his side, placing a hand on his shoulder. Her nails gently dug into his jacket, long acrylics tracing the fabric, before pulling away. "They should send us on more missions. We get results together."

  "Wouldn't that be an idea?" Gladius muttered as dryly as he possibly could. Lilith chuckled, seemingly ignorant of the sarcasm, walking past the admins. Her shoulders brushed against the grunts heading the other way, slipping through with relative ease. Begrudgingly, Gladius followed. She seemed to be looking for something. Although, what she was looking for, Gladius had no idea.

  "Where are you?" Lilith extended a nail towards the pods, attempting to find a particular set of Pokemon in the midst. Then, her eyes glimmered. Running over, prodding her nails against the glass panel.

  Shivering Zoruas. Lined up one after another.

  "How are you all doing?" her voice came out sickly sweet. The Zorua she had made her victim today shrunk. Literally. Its form shuddered, illusion work making the Zorua smaller. Tufts of its fur had been plucked and cut from its coat, leaving jagged marks on its previously perfect form.

  "Are the researchers making good use of you? Treating you well?"

  Zorua didn't answer. Just shook, and coiled further into itself. Lilith's nails trailed against the pure white wall, moving onto the next pod. The mother. Her coat was even worse. Cut to the point where there were entire patches bare of fur. Even she seemed to be resigned to her fate. Not giving Lilith anything. The admin pouted.

  "That's no way to react..." a finger pressed against her chin. "Especially when I saw your child just a day ago."

  Zorua pressed against the pod in an instant. Chorusing cries. Cries that alerted the family to attention too. The mother snarled, barked, yelled at Lilith. Demanding answers, no doubt. Lilith could only laugh. "Well, that got you riled up, didn't it? But, you better settle now, don't wanna get in trouble."

  The teasing tone only ever made it worse. Screw whatever punishment came for disobedience. Zorua would scream along with the rest of its family. All chorusing as one. Lilith sighed, then turned to Gladius with a smile.

  "Well, should I shock them? You know, to teach them a little obedience?"

  "Nothing good will come of torturing those looking after their loved ones." A voice cut through, previously unknown to the two admins. Seemingly appearing from the crowd of grunts, sticking around when all the others had left. His sunken brown eyes stared into Lilith's, unflinching. "Only bad karma."

  "Of course you'd be the person to say that," Lilith snickered.

  "What are you even doing here?" Gladius asked.

  "One of my grunts is sick," the man answered. "My time would be wasted elsewhere. So, I should spend it doing something useful."

  "Isn't that sweet?" Lilith taunted, voice as sweet as a spoonful of cinnamon. "You know, people are going to forget you're an admin if you keep picking up grunt shifts."

  "The title doesn't matter. What I get is enough, and what I do is enough."

  "You shouldn't cover for those beneath you," Gladius answered before Lilith could find a way to rile up the situation even more. "Command them, not cover for them."

  The man didn't answer. Only fixed his mask, then looked forward. "The boss called a meeting. As soon as you're finished up here."

  Gladius checked his flip phone, as did Lilith check her Porygon Phone. Sure enough, a message had been sent out to all admins. But, before they could move together to the meeting, the tired man had vanished.

  "No rest yet," grumbled Gladius, clenching his phone.

  "No rest for those piece of junk phones, either. Seriously, have you ever considered upgrading?" Lilith teased, flaunting her custom made phone, fresh from the lab.

  "It's pointless vanity," Gladius huffed, moving forward before Lilith could utter another word. He hoped to outspeed her. But, Lilith caught up in no time at all, continuing to make conversation.

  "At least the boss should be in a good mood."

  No response. Time to amp it up a little.

  "Especially considering how much you pissed him off last time. He was sooooooo mad at you then."

  Gladius' eyes set upon Lilith. Unflinching, glaring daggers into her. Lilith continued looking forward, avoiding his glance without a worry in the world. She even hummed as she walked. Gladius didn't stop, however. Walking, with all the grunts careful to step out the way of his heavy boots. Then, just when he went to open his mouth, finally giving a response...

  "Well, what do you know, we're here!"

  Lilith rushed ahead, spinning enough to let Gladius a monetary look at her smug smirk. The admin sighed. Nothing to do but follow on. The automatic doors slid open, Lilith taking her place at the spot nearest to the exit. Gladius took a seat just beside her. Every admin had gathered there. Then, their leader, stood at the head of the table.

  To Lilith's right sat the only other female of the group. Rigidly stanced, jolted upright, hands placed on her knees. A black hood covered her purple hair, with two yellow horns growing out each side. Stripes folded over her chest, embroidered with the Team Storm logo, that stretched down to a small turquoise and black skirt. Then, a one piece made of fabric that ran down to her knees, while covering both her arms all the way up to her mechanical looking gloves. She didn't move one bit. Just observed the two entering the room with rigid efficiency, before turning her gaze back towards the leader, avoiding Lilith's disgusted glance.

  Then, to Gladius' left, sat the man from earlier. With eyebags still as deeply black as ever, thick enough to suggest he hadn't gotten sleep in weeks. Yet, he never yawned once. Or, maybe he hid those yawns under his face mask. Black, just as every other part of his outfit. A darkened trenchcoat, bearing the insignia of the organisation, sowed into the breastpocket. An unkempt black shirt and trousers lay underneath, marked with ancient dirt and debris. Then, heavy boots, only unlike Gladius's with his choice not to use Arcanine fur.

  His dark brown eyes slunk around the room. Scanning everyone, waiting for something to be said. Setting on Gladius, then Lilith, then the blank one. But, none said anything. Only one, stood at the edge of the room, accompanying the leader.

  "Everyone is here, master," the youngest of those at the table chirped with a big smile. If he hadn't been draped in the clothing of a terrorist organisation, he could've passed as a young school boy. The large rounded glasses certainly helped with that picture. But, instead, he bore the dreaded logo on his chest, custom made to ooze a dark purple inside the S. Then, the black uniform that ran over the whole torso, stretching down into a pair of long shorts. Then, darkened purple gloves that ran along the edges of his hands. "What did you call us for?"

  "I simply wanted to give accolades for a job well done," the leader turned to Gladius and Lilith. "You did well. Performed and executed with minimal fault."

  "Great." Gladius' open palm slammed against the table, Lilith and the boy shuddering, although the others remained still. "Maybe, as a reward for a job well done, you can tell me why I had to do that job?"

  "Watch your tone," the boy hissed back, eyes narrowing.

  "Samael," the leader planted a hand on the boy's shoulder. His form loosened, eyes gazing back to the head of the table. The leader smiled, clenching his shoulder tighter, until the child's body eased. "It's ok. Our ally deserves to know."

  "Yes, I do. You could've picked five hundred better jobs that are more profitable and less dangerous. Why a gym leader?"

  "Well, other than your punishment? Which, I'm sure you'll agree was fair?" the leader could track Gladius' scowl growing deeper. Yet, continued regardless. "It is a warning. To the rest of the region, that we're a present threat. Leaving a gym in ruins, rubble in the wake of our trail, with not a trace of where our operations lie? That's certain to invite fear into the masses. Fear, that I believe to be rather justified now."

  "What about the witnesses, then?" Gladius settled down in his seat again. "I've come to blows with two of them, more than once now."

  "As have I, with the other boy, when sent to retrieve those Zoruas," Lilith spoke with a matter of fact Gladius wouldn't dare suggest she'd ever use. But, in the presence of her leader, the playful demeanour quietened.

  "Leave them be. People won't be so privy to joining our cause if our name is associated with murdering children," the leader's voice settled into a hushed whisper. "But, should it look like an accident? Perhaps, let their blood spill. But, only if they interfere." The leader's hand swept them away. "You are all dismissed. I will have work for all of you shortly. Our plans have just begun."

  All began to leave. The woman to Lilith's side first. Standing up, then heavily stepping from the room. She followed a strict pattern, exiting in a perfect line, and wandering down the corridor, never once deviating from her path. The tired man rubbed his eyes, but never complained once. Even if the look at his broken watch spoke to how little he thought of the time he had spent there.

  "Well, I have a couple dark foxes to return to, so if you don't mind me." Lilith murmured to Gladius, getting up from her chair, then turning to leave. Gladius sat there for a moment, eyes fixed on the leader. The head of the table hadn't even turned to face them once. Rather, just spoke into a wall. The admin's fist clenched. But, without the resolve to say much of anything. Just to take his pride, and channel it elsewhere, walking out of the room.

  The door shut. The leader finally turned, taking a seat. Samael stuck close, not leaving for a moment. Observing the leader. He had begun to stare up at the ceiling. Simply thinking. A small chuckle left his lips.

  "What's on your mind?" Samael asked.

  The commander reached into his coat. Out emerged a small metallic canteen. Spinning the top until the cap popped loose, his hand gently wobbled the canister. The liquid inside splashed, pale colour fizzing out of the top, spilling onto his pale hand. Then, the man took a small drink of the magic elixir. Thoughts bubbled once more, with the inhibition to remain quiet removed.

  "Those children. They happened to be in the wrong place, at the wrong time, in three separate moments." the man chuckled, eyes dancing in the pale light flickering above. "Maybe, Arceus is toying with fate."

  The canteen dropped to the ground.

  "I'll suppose I'll know for certain..."

  "When I shatter heaven's doors."