Kaiy quickly stepped away from the bench, brushing off Nurse Joy’s disapproving look as he hurried to the counter. He'd apologize later—right now, this call was all that mattered.

  "Marshal! Did you see the report?" Kaiy blurted out, his excitement temporarily overshadowing the memory of Dark Cave.

  "Kaiy, are you alright? We received a distress signal!" Marshal’s voice crackled with concern, catching Kaiy off guard.

  "A distress signal? Just now? Hold on," Kaiy’s excitement faltered, giving way to confusion as he moved away from Graisey, who was still on her own call.

  The PokéCenter’s doors slid open, and Mr. Pokémon walked in, his presence barely registering as Kaiy retreated to a potted plant near the entrance. From this vantage point, he saw Graisey ending her conversation and greeting the elderly man.

  “What do you mean by a distress signal, Marshal?” Kaiy asked, trying to piece things together.

  "Your RangerGear sent a strong signal that you were in grave danger. It triggered about two minutes ago. I have a Response Team ready—do they need to mobilize?" Marshal’s voice was firm, but Kaiy could sense the underlying tension.

  Kaiy let out a sharp breath as realization dawned. "No, hold off. Marshal, I was caught in an Explosion, but my team and I are fine. We’re at the Violet City PokéCenter.” He glanced over at Graisey and Mr. Pokémon, deep in conversation.

  "Did you see the news, Marshal? The Goldenrod City report?" Kaiy asked, his urgency returning.

  “I was busy preparing the Response Team,” Marshal snapped back. “No, what about it, Ranger?” Kaiy ignored her distant tone—Marshal was clearly upset, but there was no time for emotions right now.

  “The van from Cherrygrove City—it was at Dark Cave!” Kaiy’s voice dropped to a whisper as he awaited a response. But the line went dead.

  "Hello?" Kaiy pulled the RangerGear from his ear, only to see the battery had drained.

  Kaiy shoved the dead device into his pocket and gathered his backpack from the hall, leaving the RangerTent behind. He strode towards Graisey and Mr. Pokémon, interrupting their conversation with an urgent tone.

  "I need to get to Goldenrod City. Now!" He held up the Premier Ball to emphasize the urgency.

  Graisey’s eyes widened as she followed him outside, both of them were greeted by the harsh midday sun. Talonflame emerged from the ball with a sharp, confident cry, shaking her wings as if preparing for an adventure. The sight of his friend brought a fleeting smile to Kaiy’s face.

  He spoke quickly, explaining, “A Distress Signal must have gone off shortly after Graveler’s Explosion, draining my RangerGear. The cave’s density probably delayed the signal, and the city’s infrastructure boosted it once we got here. That’s why there was no Response Team at the scene.”

  “But why do you have to leave?” Graisey’s voice trembled slightly, her eyes revealing more than she intended. She didn’t want to be alone.

  Kaiy paused, the rush of the moment hitting a brief lull as he saw the fear and uncertainty in her expression. He took a deep breath, trying to soften his tone.

  “I hate this too, Graisey. But as a Ranger, I have to follow certain protocols. The Distress Signal drained my device’s battery, and I had to dismiss a Response Team. My call with my Commander was shot short. I have to report to HQ and update them on my status. If I’m not there within four hours… Well, let’s just say it’s better if I am.”

  Graisey frowned, but she didn’t argue. Kaiy glanced at Talonflame, who chirped softly, her amber eyes watching him closely. She seemed to sense the tension, stepping closer to him and nudging her beak gently against his shoulder. A faint chuckle escaped him as he gave her feathers a quick stroke.

  Blissey emerged from the PokéCenter with a tray.

  Kaiy quickly took his Poké Balls, relieved to see his team fully healed. The Happiness-Pokémon then pointed to the white cup and Kaiy, recognizing it as a painkiller and energy booster, immediately drank the liquid medicine.

  “Thanks, Blissey. Please thank Nurse Joy for me—I was a bit rude earlier.” Blissey chanted happily and retreated with the empty tray.

  “What about the Researcher?” Graisey asked, her gaze flicking to Talonflame. “Wasn’t he supposed to inspect Talonflame after the attack?”

  Kaiy’s eyes widened as he realized he’d forgotten about that. “I’ll take care of it after my visit to HQ. Thanks for reminding me,” he said with a nod.

  "And what about me?" she asked quietly, rubbing her arm as if trying to comfort herself.

  Kaiy’s heart sank. He hated leaving her behind, especially like this. “I left you the RangerTent. Focus on training your Pokémon and maybe visit the school. I’ll be back as fast as I can.”

  He rummaged through his backpack, pushing aside the Poké Ball containing the enraged Graveler to pull out his spring-themed coat. His goggles were nowhere to be found—he must’ve left them at the farm while in Trainer-disguise.

  “Where do we meet up?” Graisey asked, her voice steadier now, just before he took off.

  “I’ll find you. Stay in Violet City.”

  He turned to Talonflame, who stretched her wings eagerly, the anticipation in her movements unmistakable. With a single hop, she would be airborne, ready for the sky.

  Kaiy mounted her, and they took off, leaving Graisey standing beneath the blazing sun. As they ascended, he felt the weight of guilt settle over him. He hated splitting up, but there was no other choice. Talonflame let out a sharp, determined cry, as if to reassure him. He gave her a pat, grateful for her steady presence.

  The rush of wind against his face, the fabric of his torn pants fluttering against his knees, and the rhythmic beat of Talonflame’s wings filled the air as they soared southwest. Sprout Tower faded quickly behind them. The sun’s glare made him squint, and he regretted leaving his goggles behind.

  “You’re lucky you don’t need goggles,” Talonflame chirped in response, her tone light and playful.

  He glanced down, watching shadows dance over the landscape. Two tiny figures near the entrance of the Ruins of Alph appeared to be in a Pokémon battle. He hoped they wouldn’t disturb the Unown.

  As they gained altitude, Talonflame tilted her wings to catch the thermals, her movements graceful and confident. She loved this—soaring high above the trees, nothing but open sky and her trainer by her side. Her joy was infectious, and Kaiy couldn’t help but smile.

  As they passed over the mountain ranges, Talonflame dipped closer to the treetops, where Aipom swung from branch to branch. “Look at those Aipom go,” Kaiy chuckled, leaning forward for a better view. “Did you spot that Pineco nest?” Talonflame flapped her wings slightly, a sign that she was just as engaged in their surroundings.

  Time seemed to stretch as Kaiy’s thoughts drifted towards Graisey. Leaving her behind hadn’t been easy; they were partners, and she’d proven herself in Dark Cave. Kaiy felt a deepening connection towards the fragile Trainer he had met just a couple of days before. But he had to leave her, she knew his duty to the Rangers came first, right?

  As Goldenrod City drew closer, sunlight reflected off the glass panels of the Pokéathlon Dome. “We should bring Graisey here someday,” Kaiy mused aloud over the wind. “She’d love the friendly competition, seeing her Pokémon in a different light.” Talonflame responded with a sharp, approving call.

  The city’s skyline came into view, sparking memories of Bug-catching contests with his sister. The National Park, the Radio Tower, the enormous Department Store—each landmark brought a wave of nostalgia. He could almost hear the playful tunes from the Game Corner as Talonflame began her descent. The Ranger HQ stood out in the southern part of the city, its multitude of small solar panels gleaming like leaves in the afternoon sun. The building wasn’t as tall as the Radio Tower, but its eco-friendly, tree-like design was distinct. Kaiy admired how the HQ blended modern sustainability with Johto’s traditional aesthetics, a balance that had taken time and effort to achieve.

  Stolen novel; please report.

  Talonflame landed smoothly on an open spot near the entrance, beside a towering Corviknight. Kaiy greeted the Corviknight with a respectful nod.

  “Thanks for this, Talonflame.” He said. She let out a soft, pleased chirp, her pride and happiness unmistakable.

  Kaiy gave her a gentle hug and then recalled Talonflame to her Premier Ball.

  The cool air of the HQ entrance hall greeted him as he scanned his RangerPin and entered his code with practiced ease: six, zero, four. The doors slid open with a familiar hum. The fresh smell of nature poured in, clashing against the smells of a city.

  “Welcome back, Ranger six-o-four! How can I assist you today?” The Operator’s warm greeting made Kaiy feel at home, though her surprised glance at his lack of Ranger uniform didn’t go unnoticed. The HQ was his sanctuary, a place where he belonged.

  “Could you let Marshal know I’m here? I’ll wait in the lobby,” Kaiy said, his tone polite but eager.

  “Of course! Feel free to refresh.” The Operator gestured to the expansive refreshment area nearby. Kaiy loved this part of the HQ—a sprawling space with features to suit every type of Pokémon. A huge water feature bubbled invitingly, perfect for Water-types to relax, while a dry, desert-like area catered to Fire, Ground, and Rock-types. He smiled, remembering how Talonflame always preferred to perch near the desert terrain after a long flight.

  The spherical design of the building allowed for easy navigation. Kaiy glanced around the lobby, appreciating the thoughtful layout that separated visitor areas from the more private Ranger quarters. He knew the upper floors housed the RangerRooms and guest accommodations, while the basement was the domain of the Mechanic and the skyfloor was reserved for communications. It was all familiar, yet he never tired of it.

  Just as he was about to grab a drink, the double doors by the water feature swung open, revealing Marshal. Her face was a storm of emotions—worry, relief, anger, disbelief. Kaiy straightened, surprised by the intensity of her expression.

  “Marshal, about the call—” Kaiy began, but a nervous Marshal cut him off.

  “We’ll talk about it in the boardroom. Come with me,” she said, her tone leaving no room for discussion. Kaiy nodded, falling into step beside her, feeling a strange mix of anticipation and anxiety.

  Soft murmurs rippled through the quarter-circular boardroom, where Rangers in uniform exchanged quiet conversation. Beyond the curved glass panels, a tranquil garden shimmered in the morning light, the scent of blooming flowers drifting in. Tiered benches filled with board members faced the central speaker’s forum, ready to hear the day’s report.

  Kaiy and Marshal entered the room quietly, unnoticed by the others. A sudden clatter of stones snapped Kaiy's attention upward—Solrock hovered above, telekinetically striking two rocks together to signal the meeting’s start. The Psychic-type began orbiting slowly, casting faint light and projecting data from its core, an ever-present reminder of time and order.

  “Commander Marshal and Top-Ranger Kaiy, what a pleasure to welcome you both,” said Chairholder Eldric. His stylish gray beard and polite demeanor exuded both authority and warmth. He gestured for them to take their place at the speakers' forum, his eyes twinkling.

  “Thank you, Chairholder,” Marshal began, trying to adhere to protocol. “I have with me Top-Ranger Kaiy. Together, we have a report about ongoing events.”

  Kaiy noticed a bead of sweat on Marshal’s forehead as she hesitated. The Chairholder’s encouraging smile helped her feel more at ease. “Go on, you’re doing great,” Eldric said warmly.

  “Thank you, Chairholder,” Marshal said, her voice catching in her throat. A few board members exchanged silent glances. The weight of their attention pressed down on her, and Kaiy noticed her knuckles whitening.

  Kaiy stepped in smoothly, walking through the room as he took over, “Board members, we had some unusual encounters that we’d like to discuss,” The members listened intently, following his every move.

  “It all started in Cherrygrove City, where I was resting after a previous mission,” Kaiy continued. Solrock shifted position and activated a holoprojector, displaying a map of Johto with Cherrygrove City highlighted. “I heard rumors from locals about a suspicious white van patrolling the area.”

  A board member raised his hand and asked, “Why is this alarming to us?” Eldric nodded in agreement.

  Marshal stepped forward, more relaxed than before. “Because Cherrygrove City acts as a starter-zone. We protect both Pokémon and their trainers.” The Commander explained, almost reciting the handbook.

  “When Kaiy called me, he was helping a stranded Trainer with a sick Pokémon.” Kaiy gave a subtle nod, pleased to see her footing return. He realized that he had never seen her present to the board before. Was this her first time?

  “That sounds like a normal class 3 intervention,” a woman commented, nodding in understanding.

  “I judged it as a class 2,” Kaiy added, snapping out of his reflective state. “The Pokémon was unresponsive, and my medikit wouldn't suffice. This is unrelated to the white van.” He continued, “Because I was scouting the van during the Trainer’s call for help, I had my Partner Pokémon track the van.”

  Solrock projected a mission schematic, detailing the diverging paths of the units.

  “So, you split up,” Eldric noted. “One unit followed the van while the other stayed with the Trainer. Is the Trainer able to continue their journey?”

  “Yes, Graisey—that’s her name—is fine, and so is her Cyndaquil,” Kaiy replied. Solrock projected a glowing green checkmark beside the name, and the members murmured their approval.

  “Later, the tracker Talonflame had been carrying showed up in our mailbox.” A heavy silence followed, just as expected. Marshal pressed on: “Before we get into that, you should know that Talonflame returned to Cherrygrove City. Please watch this footage.” Marshal threw her RangerGear into the air, where Solrock telekinetically caught it and displayed the drone footage of Talonflame attacking the city.

  Kaiy watched Eldric closely, noting his expressions and body language. As expected, Eldric reacted with empathy and engagement to the video.

  “Solrock, pause the video. Zoom in on the eyes,” Marshal said, her tone sharpening.

  “Ah, I see. Yes, this is worth investigating,” Eldric affirmed, the glowing eyes clearly visible. “Good work, team!” His approval carried weight —and everyone in the room felt it.

  “I must remind the Top-Ranger of the rules,” a stern woman interjected, standing up. “Missions are assigned by the board for a reason,” she said, tone clipped. “Field improvisation may win battles, but it undermines the structure that keeps us safe. The title of Top-Ranger may have been earned through bravery, but it can be just as easily revoked. And next time, wear your full uniform!”

  “Relax, Sandrine,” Eldric smoothly interjected, defending Kaiy. “The Ranger made a good call. That’s why we have them in the field. Just keep the rules in mind, Kaiy.”

  Kaiy caught a subtle glint in Eldric’s eye. Was that a wink?

  “Go on. Where is this investigation now?” Eldric asked as he sank back into his chair, seeking comfort.

  “We come to the reason we are here today,” Marshal indicated to Kaiy, who stepped next to her. From his backpack, Kaiy revealed the Poké Ball containing the enraged Graveler. Together, they recounted the events in Dark Cave, holding the board’s full attention.