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Characters[]

Gym Leaders[]

Seo (Violet City)[]

Falkner's old roost has been recently replaced with a less myopic Gym. The youthful Seo is in charge of the Pet Park, a mostly open-air complex of parks, training areas, and veterinary clinics that treat /most/ species of domesticated Pokemon. (Seo's managers have recently convinced him to begrudingly ban the Zubat line from the park, as they were treating other Pokemon as beverages.) The Gym also works with schools to help kids learn about Pokemon (and enlists them as free labor "volunteers" for various tasks). Progressing through the gym involves assisting volunteers and staff with these tasks.

Small mini-game associated with each component of the gym:

  • Parks: Help Niu collect toys and fill food bowls. A high score will result in Niu eating all of her Pokemon's berries before the fight starts.
  • Training Area: Participate in Evie's "Who's that Pokemon!?!??!" class. Evie will show baby Pokemon and silhouettes of their evolved forms which must be identified. Evie's Pokemon will have increased evasion unless a high score is achieved.
  • Vet Clinic: Help Huang identify recordings of wild Pokemon by their cries. The hit rate of Huang's Pokemon's sound-based moves will always be 100% unless a high score is achieved.

Niu

Pokemon:
  • Bounsweet
  • Vanilite
  • Swirlix

Evie

Pokemon:
  • Munna
  • Galerian Ponyta
  • Espurr
  • Pichu

Huang

  • Wailmer
  • Pikipek
  • Ledian

Pk8 Seo

Pokemon: Houndour, Yamper, Rockruff, Mightyena


Upon meeting Niu

Niu
WELCOME!
Sau
Oh, thanks. This is my first gym.
Niu
This is everyone's first gym.
Sau
True. It's still cool, though.
Niu
Mm! I'm surprised it's your first gym. You're almost as old as the gym leader himself!
Sau
That would make him pretty young, wouldn't it?
Niu
You're kind of the same like that. But otherwise the two of you have completely different flavors!
Sau
Eh??
Niu
He's like liver and onions with too much paprika, and you're... oh! I like you.
Sau
Thanks?
Niu
You're supposed to ask why! It's ok, I'll tell you after you help me feed the birds.

If Sau does not get a high score helping Niu:

Niu
Hm, not good enough! You can pass, but no flavor profile for you.

If Sau got a high score:

Niu
Thanks!! I think you are most like... a mango delight with guava. No, a guava delight with mango? Maybe both?? Oh, but like, a hidden taste... Well, it was a delight anyway, bye!

Upon meeting Evie

Evie
You use your Magnemite to do what?
Sau
Excuse me?
Evie
Herd Mareep!
Sau
How did you know that?
Evie
Oh, I can read minds.
Sau
...
Evie
...
Just kidding! It's all Munna here.
That's really cool, though! I bet with your flexible mind, you'll be great at this game.
It requires imagination. See these baby Pokemon behind me? You have to tell me what their evolved forms are. Are you ready?

If Sau does not get a high score:

Evie
Hmm...maybe you're like a baby Pokemon as well. What do you think you'll be like when you're older?

If Sau got a high score:

Evie
Wow! Isn't learning fun?
Yup, it was kind of a trick. I learned it from Dr Atua - he says none of us would learn anything if it wasn't a game.

Upon meeting Huang

Huang
Oh? Someone's made it this far. We can get started, then.
Sau
I was wondering if there were any adults here.
Huang
Having full-time staff manage all of the Park's responsibilities isn't sustainable. Here, put these headphones on.
Sau
Okay. What are we doing?
Huang
Very trusting, aren't you? I expected some sort of teenage resistance.
Sau
I've been told I'm generally an agreeable person.
Huang
I see. Perhaps I've been conditioned otherwise when it comes to children your age. May I have your name?
Sau
I'm Sau.
Huang
Sau? Like "saw"? Spell it for me.
Sau
Ess-ay-yuu.

The way the edge of Huang's jaw flexes makes it seem as though, for a moment, she considered something amusing.

Huang
Hmm. When you spell it like that, it reminds me of that manic Trainer in a trench coat that breezed through here screaming indistinctly about hate. Yet when you say your name, it reminds me of our Gym Leader and how he was raised - or rather, how he wasn't raised.
Sau
Huh? You can get all that from just a name?
Huang
I'm just idly thinking about things. Now, about this audio test...

If Sau did not get a high score upon helping Huang:

Huang
Passable. That will have to do.

If Sau got a high score:

Huang
You seem to understand the touch of sound. Our Gym Leader is waiting - perhaps you can teach him a thing or two.

Upon meeting Seo:

Seo is playing with his Yamper and doesn't initially appear to recognize he has a challenger. When he does, he bolts upright and pieces together what he believes is an intimidating glare.

Seo
Hmph. Huang's supposed to tell me when someone's made it through. Don't think that you've caught me off guard.
Sau
Nope. I was wondering how you say your name.
Seo
What a weird question. It's "Say-oh."
Sau
Oh, I think I see now...
Seo
What the hell? You're the most spaced out challenger I've had. Either they're trash-talking adults with a bunch of overleveled Pokemon or 10-year old kids that don't say anything with... a bunch of overleveled Pokemon.
Sau
Are you on a losing streak?
Seo
What's that supposed to mean!?
Sau
I'm just filling in the words you're suggesting. Sorry. So, um... was it difficult for you become the Gym Leader?
Seo
Yeah, I train hard. The previous guy wouldn't shut up about birds, but I thought this Gym should be more than that. I got big plans for this place - and for me. Gotta be the best, no matter what it takes. *slight pause* No matter who I gotta cut down.

For a moment, Sau can feel the blood pumping in his ears.

Sau
That sounds kind of extreme. Do you have a conscience?
Seo
Uh, yeah? I have dogs.
Sau
That's not the same thing.
Seo
Who cares? How do you think the Elite got to be where they are now?
Sau
By taking care of pets?
Seo
Yeah! And that's just what I'm - hey, you...!

Battle - Defeat Seo!

Upon defeating Seo:

Seo
Shit! I can't beat kids half my age OR almost my age!
Sau
That's fine, right? Otherwise no one would be able to see the other Gyms.
Seo
It's just irritating losing all the time like some kind of stepping stone.
Sau
It must be hard being the first Gym Leader. At least the challengers are able to help your park out?
Seo
*grumbles* I suppose.
Sau
I like your Gym's mission. I hope the other ones are kind of like this.
Seo
O-oh, you think so?
Sau
It's cool that someone not that much older than me can be in charge of a Gym.
Seo
Yeah, and I'm doing it with the team I lo- I'm, uh, doing it my way.
Sau
That's how I want to approach the Gym challenge too. I feel a bit better about it now, seeing that Gym Trainers and Leaders are normal people too.
Seo
Uh, well, about that...
|}

8 (Azalea Town)[]

The following event takes place after the 'Union Cave' Consortium event on the main page. Sau makes his way from the exit of Union Cave along the quiet and roughshod path to Azalea Town. "Town" is a somewhat generous phrase, as many of the buildings are rundown and seem deserted. While at the Pokemon Center, Sau asks the staff about Union Cave.

Sau
Are officials here aware of what's going on in Union Cave? There's a whole Consortium operation going on, and it's illegal, for sure. Who can I go to to make sure this is addressed?

The pink-haired Nurse does not answer his question, pretending to busy herself with the Pokeballs Sau has given her. He notices the tiers of bags beneath her eyes, and the discoloration of her uniform.

Sau
Excuse me -
Nurse Joyeuse
I am sure whoever needs to know already knows, my dear. You would be careful not to get wrapped up with those people.
Sau
I didn't really have a choice. And who exactly 'already knows'? There is a Gym Leader here, yes? Or a police station?
Nurse Joyeuse
We have not had a police station here for some time. We did not think we needed one, and with everyone moving away...
Sau
Oh. That sounds good and bad. There is a Gym here though, right?

The Nurse silently collects Sau's Pokeballs from a tray and hands them back to him as if they were extremely brittle.

Nurse Joyeuse
Perhaps you should go see it for yourself. There is a Pokemon League official there now taking care of it. He's from the city. As are you, I'm sure. Just passing through...
Sau
I was born in a city, but I've lived on a farm for part of my life. It's isolated, kind of like this place. But yes, I am just passing through.

The Nurse sends him off with a semblance of politeness - more than how she initially greeted him.


Sau leaves the Pokemon Center and approaches the nearby Gym. It appears to be more well-kept than many of its neighbors, but the building's shutters have been drawn and the only presence is a solitary figure affixing a sign to the door. As Sau approaches, he notices the man is heavily bandaged and robed. His arms, legs, and the majority of his face are shrouded behind layers of grey-white gauze. Surprisingly, he sports a healthy patch of sideswept, jet-black hair. His bangs fall partially over a single visible yellow eye.

Sau
Hello. Are you from the Pokemon League? He looks like he's been in an accident. I probably shouldn't pry...

The man starts and swivels to look at Sau. His left hand reaches for the hood hanging behind his neck, then appears to reconsider.

???
I am. This Gym is closed.
Sau
What? Is it going to reopen?
???
Perhaps. We're looking for a replacement Leader. Come back later.
Sau
Oh, it's just that I wanted to report an incident in Union Cave.
???
We have already received reports. Several. From the same high-strung individual.
Sau
It's good Amakir was able to get the story out.
???
You know her? Then you must be the boy who was assaulted by the Consortium.
Sau
That's right. It wasn't a good experience. The League will handle it, yes?

Though the man's mouth is veiled by bandages, Sau cannot help but notice his jawline move back and forth, as if chewing in consideration.

???
The Consortium isn't a group to be taken lightly. We would need more than accounts from two teenagers.
Sau
It sounds like you don't believe me.
???
Oh, I believe you. Belief counts very little against influence, unfortunately.
Sau
Don't you have influence of your own? Who are you - are you sure you work for the League?
8
You can call me 8. Yes, I'm very sure of my position. But I'm currently busy handling the abandonment of this Gym, which is a slightly more pressing matter.
Sau
Abandonment?
8
It appears the Gym Leader, Bugsy, had resorted to Slowpoketail harvesting in an attempt to turn the town's fortunes around. Worked with some vestiges of Team Rocket, someone turned on him. End of his story.
Sau
The Gym Leader? I... I can't believe that.
8
Wasn't really a shock. There were reports the man allowed Team Rocket grunts to block entry to his gym the last time Slowpoketails were a problem.
Sau
That was around the time I was born, I think - they were banned a long time ago.
8
And somehow that made them even more desirable by collectors and gourmands. Funny how that works.
Sau
That doesn't excuse it. People should cook using ingredients respectful of Pokemon.
8
Oho? You're an expert chef, now? And moral beacon.
Sau
I'm just saying, there are plenty of other ingredients that could be used instead. Berries, spices...
8
Beef? Chicken?
Sau
Oh... good point, I guess. I'm a vegetarian, though.
8
Ah, really now?
Sau
My family farm raises Pokemon for their products, but we don't slaughter them. We don't raise normal animals either.
8
Even dumb animals have a will to live, yes?
Sau
Right. I'm not pushing this on anyone. It's just the way my family works.
8
How inspiring. Slowpoketails are disgusting, either way.
Sau
You say that like it's from personal experience.

The man makes a dry, hacking sound. Sau thinks at first that he is choking, but it seems that is what passes for a laugh.

8
Of course not. The myth that they have regenerative properties is false. Now, about your Gym Challenge...
Sau
Right. Should I come back, or...?
8
I'll substitute for the Gym Leader. I can put together an appropriate team for this level.
Sau
Wait, really? You can do that?
8
I don't know, am I sure that I work for the Pokemon League?
Sau
Um, sorry about that.

The hacking sound again. 8 opens the door to the Gym and raises his arm to his chest. A holographic series of panels pops up from beneath his robes.

8
Don't worry about it, kid. Quicker this way, before you kill me with all your questions.

Sau follows 8 into the darkened Gym. They are surrounded by a network of pits with thin railings. Spinarak-shaped carts lie perched on the railings, lime-green faces eagerly waiting to transport challengers to a now-empty space at the back of the Gym. There are still patches of well-manicured foliage, and switches with colorful infographics of insects plastered to them.

8
Sad, isn't it? The man didn't have any Gym Trainers left to take over. No one wanted to stay in a dying town.
Sau
It is sad. I feel this place meant a lot to Bugsy. Even considering what he did to Slowpoke, you could tell he cared for this place.
8
But that doesn't excuse it, you might say.
Sau
Yeah.
8
Heh.

8 fiddles with the holographic screens and holds six Pokeballs up to them in succession. Each receives a bolt of light, after which 8 dismisses the projection.

8
Since it's painfully obvious what kind of Gym the man ran, I've assembled an appropriate team. Scaled up a bit.
Sau
Thanks? I guess I should feel lucky you're even offering me the opportunity. And it will help prepare me for the next leader. I hear they have two Dragons.
8
Exactly. The Elite Four doesn't have time for everyone, so they try to break challengers in order to efficiently sift for the best ones.
Sau
Sounds like they know what they're doing.
8 says nothing for a second, then laughs even more harshly and sends out his first Pokemon.

Pokemon:

  • Joltik
  • Snom
  • Wimpod
  • Ninjask
  • Vibrava
  • Centiskorch

Upon sending out first Pokemon, Joltik:

8
I've heard Bugsy believed Bug-Types were excellent Pokemon for children, as they evolved quickly. He probably failed to mention they also died relatively quickly.

Upon sending out Snom:

8
...I like this one.

Upon sending out Vibrava:

8
This technically isn't a Bug. I needed an Earth-type, though, and Dwebble is shit. Oh sorry, did I just use that word?
Sau
'Earth'-type...?

Upon sending out final Pokemon, Centiskorch, 8's eye flares balefully.

8
I work best with Fire. Good luck.
Upon defeating 8:

Artemis (Goldenrod City)[]

Situated in dazzling Goldenrod City lies the Opera House, a gym themed around music. Gone is Whitney's maze of flowers and platforms - Artemis has converted the Gym into a beautiful concert hall. Descending from the top of the hall, a red carpet guides the challenger through the golden-panelled room. Small platforms are located at each level: Dress Circle, Boxes and Stalls, each with one of Artemis's quartet members who must be battled to progress further. At the end of the carpet lies the stage, where Artemis waits.

There are two special features for this Gym:

  • At the start of each battle, the Gym Trainer will identify a particular emotion that the player is exhibiting. They will play to it, strengthening certain attributes of the challenging Pokemon and weakening others. Artemis has a similar ability, but will cycle through different emotions with each Pokemon he sends out.
  • At the beginning of the Gym, the music features the voices of a full string quartet. As each member is defeated, their instrument is silenced, until only Artemis's violin is left. Once Artemis is defeated, a full orchestra appears to play the victory theme.

Jonathan, the Violist

  • Bio: The self-proclaimed brains behind the Opera House. Jonathan is a talented violist and music theorist whose abilities are outweighed only by his outrageous opinion of himself. Has a poorly hidden crush on Tiffany that Artemis is too kind to point out. Possesses not a single whit of irony. Not a single whit.
  • Lugubrious: Attack, Special Attack and Speed are all reduced, but the Pokemon's Defence and Special Defence are sharply raised.
  • Pokemon:
  • Jigglypuff
  • Maractus
  • Ludicolo

Tiffany, the Double Bassist

  • Bio: The actual brains behind the Opera House. Tiffany's somewhat ditzy manner and affect that switches alarmingly between sleepy and manic hides a mind that adores organisation in every form. She has the best head for production and the technical aspects of putting together a musical performance.
  • Energetic: The player's Pokemon have sharply increased Speed, but all moves suffer a 20% Accuracy drop.
  • Pokemon:
  • Chatot
  • Loudred
  • Wigglytuff

Elizabeth, the Cellist

  • Bio: Once Johto's most famous classical musician, Elizabeth disappeared at the height of her fame after a disastrous performance. For several years she remained conspicuously absent, only reappearing when Artemis opened the new Gym. Elizabeth is a quiet, almost fey woman, and rather unexpectedly a long-time friend of the quartet since their university days. Rumours that Artemis was involved in her fall are presumed to be only that, for why would she help him out afterwards...?
  • Ambitious: All Pokemon have sharply increased Attack, Special Attack and critical hit rate, but suffer reduced Defence and Special Defence.
  • Pokemon:
  • Whismur
  • Kriketot
  • Audino
  • Exploud

Pk8 Artemis
  • Bio: The leader of the Concert Hall is a slightly awkward and consistently high-strung young man. It is somewhat baffling given his demeanour that Artemis has managed to run a Gym, keep up a career as a violinist and composer, perform enthusiastically with Goldenrod's Classical Radio channel and have dinner regularly enough to satisfy his mother, grandmother and four grandaunts. Artemis finds sublimity in music itself - performance is his way to appreciate this and communicate it to others. Unsurprisingly, he does not have the world's greatest win:loss ratio against ten year olds.
  • Imp of the Perverse: Artemis will cycle through a different emotional ability for each Pokemon he sends out.
  • Pokemon:
  • Chingling - deceptively sweet chimes lull the opposing Pokemon, reducing Speed and Attack.
  • Kriketune - an agitating pizzicato rhythm which raises all Pokemon's Attack and Special Attack whilst lowering Evasiveness.
  • Flygon - a haunting tune which transfixes the opposing Pokemon, giving them a 20% chance of not listening to the player's instructions.
  • Primarina - a vivacious melody heightens the opposing Pokemon's Special Attack whilst Special Defence is sharply reduced.
  • Altaria - a beautiful, comforting song that enfolds all Pokemon in its warm embrace, increasing Defence and Special Defence and restoring 20 HP each turn.

Upon entering the gym

Angie
Hey there! Kid!
Sau
Everyone tells me I'm too old to be a kid Trainer.
Angie
You look like a kid to me.
Sau
...you don't look like a musician.
Angie
Nope. I'm just here to support Art and clean up the bodies afterwards.

Angie gives a grin. It is decidedly not reassuring.

Sau
So do I get some advice or something? Most of the people at the front of the gym seem to do that.
Angie
Um... Mobilise a lot so you don't get DVTs?
Sau
...
Angie
...
Angie
Aaaaaanyway. I was going to tell you to put on a good show. Art is only here for the performance side of it, so put your heart into it!
Sau
That's...almost as unhelpful as your previous piece of advice.
Well, thanks. I'll go now.
Angie
Hmm. I wonder if I should have told him that I meant it literally?

Upon meeting Jonathan

Jonathan
Were you startled by my performance? I am experimenting with pentaharmonic syncopated dysynchronies that I assure you will be unlike anything the world has ever experienced before. Let me give you a prelude!

Battle - Defeat Jonathan!

Jonathan
What an utterly lugubrious manner you have. I find it quite devastating.

Upon defeating Jonathan

Jonathan
Winning is quite passé now. The true artist lives for the ineffable heights found in performance. What, you missed them? I'm not surprised.
Jonathan
Artie will disagree with me, but pay him no mind. He's an idiot. I confess a great deal of affection for him for reasons none of us can be explain, but it's true.

Upon meeting Tiffany

Tiffany
Aiya, I swear Art always composes the most boring double bass lines...I'm about to fall asleep.
!
You look like you might distract me! Hello!

Battle - Defeat Tiffany!

Tiffany
I was feeling super tired, but now you've got me all fired up! Are you ready?

Upon defeating Tiffany

Tiffany
...maybe I'll go back to sleep.
Tiffany
Do you think I can convince Art to let us order some bubble tea? I need a sugar fix. Yeah, I'll bet he'll let us. He's so soft he's basically a marshmallow.

Upon meeting Elizabeth

Elizabeth
...
Let us begin.

Battle - Defeat Elizabeth!

Elizabeth
The only way to succeed is to risk it all!

Upon defeating Elizabeth

Elizabeth
For every rise, a fall.
Elizabeth
An impressive performance, but not enough. To be a virtuoso requires a certain...je n'ais ce quoi. Perhaps you will identify it in a way that Artemis and I have not.

Upon meeting Artemis

Artemis does not immediately notice the player's presence, but continues to play a haunting solo on his violin. Only when he finishes does he close his eyes, turn, and then opens them again with a smile for the player.

Artemis
Wow! Your battling is so impressive!
...Oh wait, I was supposed to tell you that after you win against me. Sorry.
Sau
Maybe Jonathan was right about this one...
Artemis
Ahahahaha...
Anyway, I hope you've enjoyed the performances so far. It means a lot to me when people enjoy the music - even more if it makes them look at the world in a new way.
Pokemon and Trainers, Trainers and Pokemon. When we perform together, we're causing not only the audience, but ourselves to reflect on our relationships between each other.
So, should we get started? Then my praise will actually be at the right time.
I warn you: I'm going to ask for you to put your heart into it! The extremes of emotion will bring out the best and worst in you and your Pokemon!
It's showtime!

Battle - Defeat Gym Leader Artemis!

Upon sending out Chingling

Artemis
Sweet and soft, like waking from your bed to a long summer morning. Why do you need to get up?

Upon sending out Kriketune

Artemis
Do you feel a little agitated? A touch erratic? All over the place?

Upon sending out Flygon

Artemis
Music as haunting as your sorrow.

Upon sending our Primarina

Artemis
Or as uplifting as life itself.

Upon sending out Altaria

Artemis
Your mother is waiting for you back home, you know. Whatever the path you take, she is waiting, and this is what she feels.

Upon defeating Artemis

Artemis applauds enthusiastically.

Artemis
I'm actually at loss for words. Bravo!

Artemis pins a badge in the shape of a treble clef on Sau's chest

Artemis
Thank you. It doesn't happen every time, but with this battle, I felt I learned something. It made me feel glad to be alive so that I could experience it.
Sau
That's, uh, kind of dark.
Artemis
Is it? I think it looks pretty bright, today.

If one speaks to Artemis after defeating him

Artemis
What I said in the battle? Of course I meant it. You get to choose what you do with that bit of information.
...but I can tell you Mums love it when you call home unexpectedly.

Nell (Ecruteak City)[]

The newly (re)formed Ecruteak Gym lies within the center of Serene Forest, with its groves neatly cut into walls forming a maze with pathways locked by switches. On the entrance of the forest, Chime attempts to convince Sau to turn back. If Sau declines the offer, Chime will begin to chase and attack him throughout the maze, playing a practical cat-and-mouse game where he hunts down the trainer. If Chime catches Sau, a battle will forcefully initiate where Chime always gets first strike priority and crits Sau's current Pokemon, then retreat. Sau would then find himself sent back at the entrance with all the switches reset. The process would continue if Chime catches Sau again until he reaches the gym's main gate, where Chime awaits as an actual battle.

Once the Gym is cleared, Chime will no longer hunt down Sau whenever he enters the grove, but wild Pokemons will fill in instead.

Pk8 Chime
  • Bio: Chime (professional name) is a talented gardener who redecoed a patch of dangerously overgrowth forest into a maze in the outskirts of Ecruteak City. One thing lead to another, the maze became a tourist sight, then a gym. A generally agreeable individual (if abit aloof), but can get very temperamental on matters regarding Nell, who he shares a close relationship akin to brother-and-sister. Though he does not compete, Chime has national-level kendo skills.
  • Accentuated Assault: Chime has an attack counter where every 4th attack he repeats in a row has 100% critical rate and bypasses defense. The counter resets once the 4th attack is executed (hit or miss) or Chime changes action mid chain, but any attacks that triggers crit beforehand will not reset the counter. As such, Chime's Pokemon attempt to inflict debilitating status effects or otherwise stall long enough to set up for a Pokemon to repeat the same move.
  • Pokemon:
    • Vivillion (Meadow Coloration) - Delays with Powder against Fire-types/Sleep Powder/Double Team, attacks with Bug Buzz.
    • Chimecho - Delays with Cosmic Power and Heal Bell, can pass Stats with Baton Pass, attacks with Extrasensory.
    • Frosmoth - Delays with Rest and Sleep Talk, attacks with Ice Beam and Air Slash.
    • Starmie - Delays with Confuse Ray and Recover, attacks with Scald and Psychic.
    • Meganium - Delays with Synthesis, Leech Seed, and Reflect, attacks with Petal Blizzard.

Pk8 Nell
  • Bio: Nell is a young woman who helped Chime in redecoing Serene Forest into its current state, where she emitted a killing intent strong enough to temporarily pacify Pokemons within the forest. Although initially tasked with handling Chime's role, Nell's inability to restrain herself led to many challengers being severely injured, necessitating a switch of roles with Chime gate-keeping, ensuring the challengers are strong enough to handle Nell's onslaught. Nell knows how to play guitar, but gets easily flustered at the fact that she only knows old tunes.
  • Vermillion Vein: Nell's Pokemon will always attack twice on their turn: first with a status move and second with a damaging move. Problem?
  • Pokemon:
    • Scyther: escalates with Swords Dance or Agility, slices with X-Scizzor or Aerial Ace.
    • Doublade: upgrades with Iron Defense or Autotomize, duels with Sacred Sword or Iron Head.
    • Slowbro: drowses with Amnesia or Yawn, ponders with Water Pulse or Psybeam.
    • Marowak: threatens with Focus Energy or Leer, punishes with Bonemerang or Rock Slide
    • Typhlosion: Haha, just kidding. Typlosion gets two damaging attacks (Eruption, Lava Plume, Facade, Wild Charge) per round.

Upon entering Forest:

Sau
Hmm...is there really a Gym in this forest?
Chime
Hello.
Sau
Agh! Don't jump on me like that!
Chime
A Trainer? I wonder how you've wandered into such a place as this?
Sau
I'm here for the Gym.
Chime
...Hm. Would you consider turning back?
Sau
What kind of a Gym declines challengers!?
Chime
This one. So, will you?

>Sau replies 'yes'

Chime
Yes, no reason for unnecessary conflict. Since you came all the way, here's something for your effort.
>Sau receives Energy Root x1

>Sau replies 'no'

Chime
If that is your answer. Take one step beyond this point, and...
Sau
And? Huh-? He's gone.

Upon entering Forest: >You feel someone looking at you...

Chime
Here's the rules. To get past here, you need to turn on all the switches first. I'm going to count to 3. That's as much as a handicap you'll get.
One.
Two....
...Three!
Sau
Wait-!

If caught by Chime:

Chime
Well, I suppose that's as far as you go.

Upon meeting Chime

Chime
I've been waiting. You have guts traversing the forest.
Sau
No more tricks, right?
Chime
Nope.

>if Sau replies 'no' prior-hand

Chime
As a recognition of your strength, let's fight fair-and-square.
>All of Sau's Pokemon are healed!
Chime
I won't let you lay one finger on her.

Upon defeating Chime:

Chime
You're stronger than I thought. I am certain you'll survive her onslaught.
Sau
That doesn't sound encouraging.
Chime
The Gym leader's...not someone who's good at restraint. Good luck.

Upon meeting Nell

Nell
Nice work making it this far. Uh...I think a congratulations is in order?
Sau
No, that happens after I defeat you.
Nell
Oh. I haven't met any challengers here in a while... somehow they kept getting lost.
Sau
I think that has more to do with Chime... Anyway, shall we begin?
Nell
As you wish. My Pokemon are a bit old-school. They get to attack twice, though. Fair warning.
Seo
What? How is that fair?
Nell
It isn't. Welcome to the real world.
Seo
But I've been in the real world all my life...?
Nell
Ah, ok. Welcome to the Johto Pokemon League, then. That's worse.

Upon sending out Typhlosion:

Nell
You were expecting a Charizard? How trite.

Upon defeating Nell:

Nell
Congratulations. You did well repelling my attack.
Sau
Phew-
Nell
Here's your badge. I hope this motivates your sights to stay true.
Sau
That's not very convincing coming from someone that blatantly cheats....
Nell
Well...don't be like me?
Sau
Yeah, that sounds more appropriate!

Seungchul (Olivine City)[]

As a bustling port-of-call and the main trade hub connecting Johto with several other regions (primarily Alola), Olivine City has no shortage of visitors seeking affordable, quick, and memorable eats. They need look no further than the Waning Moon Waffle House. Leader Seungchul Song took Jasmine's old nondescript building that was essentially filled with dirt and transformed it into a popular tourist attraction (with some brotherly and sisterly help from his five siblings, who help staff). The new building design is sleek and almost ship-like, topped off with a crescent-shaped sign that looks like a bite taken out of a waffle. The nighttime beam from the city's nearby lighthouse casts a rich golden glow on the sign and restaurant proper. It's open for the entire day, so Gym Challenges need to be conducted expediently with customer service in mind.

To accomplish this, the Songs have a rather expedient method of whittling down challengers while giving half the staff a short break. As the Waffle House also offers an array of cards and board games for customer use, they will initially have each challenger participate in a quick four-person card game, followed by a Double Battle.

Euchre/Double Battle: Each participant selects two Pokemon.

Partner Joohyun:

  • Bio: Five years Seungchul's junior, in charge of customer service. She takes special pride in bringing customers orders from the kitchen and then convincing them to try or purchase an assortment of add-on condiments or toppings. Her very low failure rate in this undertaking is one of the main sources of markup revenue for the Waffle House. She is a moderately proficient Euchre player with a few idiosyncrasies, mainly involving calling solo more often than she should. Of all the siblings, she has had the most difficult time adapting to the language of Johto, but this does not affect her work performance or personal happiness in the slightest. Most likely to don the waffle mascot costume.
  • Pokemon:
    • Vespiquen
    • Appletun

Opponent Taeyang:

  • Bio: Two years Seungchul's junior, head chef that calls the flow of the kitchen. His loudness and brash personality are backed up by legitimate (if not somewhat narrowed to the realm of breakfast and Kaegyoese food) culinary skills. He is nonetheless relatively adventurous with incorporating new dishes into the menu as suggested by customers. Probably has the highest attachment of anyone to the reputation of the Waffle House. Exceptionally bad Euchre player, but quite good at mahjong, where he complains all the same but achieves better results. Tends to argue the most with Seungchul as well as freak out defensively when others argue with Seungchul. Completely refuses to don the waffle mascot costume.
  • Pokemon:
    • Machoke
    • Heracross

Opponent Iseul:

  • Bio: Four years Seungchul's junior, in charge of inventory management and wholesaler relations. The shortest and arguably least noticeable of the group, but by no means a pushover. Likes to plan rollout of new cookware or recipes and collect data on sales. Surprisingly content to jump in and help with tasks such as dishwashing and cleaning, as it affords him time to think about projects. Objectively the best Euchre player in terms of individual decisions, but adapts poorly to unexpected or illogical plays from his partner. Like Taeyang, quite protective of his eldest brother, though resorts to low-key intimidation and other quiet means to advance Seungchul and the restaurant's image. Designed the waffle mascot costume.
  • Bio:
  • Pokemon:
    • Kadabra
    • Xatu

Pk8 Seungchul
  • Bio: The oldest of a large group of siblings, Seungchul Song and his family bounced around several regions before planting their roots in Johto's Olivine City. While he has training in a variety of mechanical and engineering tasks, he is currently content to manage the local Gym and Waning Moon Waffle House. Seungchul seems content to be the face of the Gym, while letting his brothers and sisters run the brains of the operation. This gives him time to work on his other pet projects, such as helping maintain the Olivine Lighthouse and fixing up boats. He can often be seen in the Waning Moon's chef uniform, which features a loosened collar/lapel and a prominent crescent waffle over the heart. Like his siblings, Seungchul is fairly short, with warm sand-colored skin. Unlike them, the front shock of his hair has been dyed from black to a very contrasting blonde, and he wears a golden chime-like earring on one ear.
  • Escape Pod: Seungchul's Pokemon automatically swap out when dropping below 50% health, cleansing all status effects in the process.
  • Pokemon:
    • Stunfisk (Galerian Form)
    • Electrode
    • Girafarig
    • Morkpedo
    • Dracozolt

Upon entering Gym:

Sau approaches the counter after waiting in line for about 15 minutes.

Seungchul
Hey. What can I get you?
Sau
One Gym Challenge, please.
Seungchul
oh my god why are there so many of them this week Just that? You don't want a waffle or something while you wait? Special of the day is papaya core with mangosteen syrup...
Sau
Just the Gym Challenge is fine.
Seungchul
You sure? Aight, well, I gotta get the staff to take you on first, and we're kind of in the middle of a rush, so I'd highly advise getting something to eat while you wait.
Sau
This seems kind of like extortion.
Seungchul
Sure, but it's delicious extortion. Tell you what, if you beat me, I'll refund the full price.
Sau
Okay, I'll take seven specials then. Six in a to go box.
Seungchul
Hah. That confident?
Sau
Not really, most of these are for my Pokemon later on. If I win, then I'll have taken full advantage of your offer.
Seungchul
Okay boss, payment up front. Take your time and enjoy the food - it's crazy good. My sister Joohyun will bring it out, and we'll get the Gym Challenge started after you eat.

Sau takes a seat away from an array of televisions, choosing instead a spot overlooking the sea. A few ships sail into port, watched over by the sleeping lighthouse - it's late in the afternoon, but its beacon hasn't begun to shine yet. A woman who looks to be slightly older than him soon arrives, artfully balancing several plastic containers, a plate that smells like syrupy carbohydrate heaven, and several condiment bottles. After doling out the majority of her charge across Sau's table, she brandishes one of the bottles with cheerful aggression at him.

Joohyun
Do you want honey with your waffle? Take some honey for your waffle. It’s good for you. Natural sugar. You will like it.
Sau
T-thanks, but I think there's enough sugar on my plate? Not that I'm complaining, but...
Joohyun
Great! I love customers who don't complain.

She douses Sau's waffle with honey and departs to help another table before he can protest. After one bite, he understands her wisdom. Lunch being finished faster than he expected, he waits at the table idly looking over the ocean until Seungchul rushes past his table.

Seungchul
Hey - you ready? I got people to play cards with you for the Gym Challenge.
Sau
Cards? Like children’s card games?
Seungchul
Uh, no. This is four handed Euchre. And it looks like... *shouts towards the back* Joohyun! Taeyang! Iseul! You’re up!

There is a mix of excited chatter from the selected siblings, who finish up at their stations and make their way forward.

Seungchul
Hyun, put that honey away, you’ll eff up the cards.
Joohyun
*gives a knowing look that perfectly communicates ‘language’’.*
Taeyang
What the hell, Chul? Watch your mouth around challengers!
Seungchul
Aish. Iseul, you can teach Sau here how to play, right? The rest of us need to get back to work. Let me know if he wins.

Iseul nods incrementally and wordlessly beckons the other three to a card table.

Sau
Wait, I don’t have to win a Pokemon battle? Just a card game?
Taeyang
Card game, then Pokemon battle. If you’re lucky. Which you won’t be, cause euchre is a doubles game, and I’m not on your team!

Iseul gives Taeyang a mildly withering side glance.

Iseul
Sau, you’re paired with Joohyun, and Taeyang is unfortunately with me.
Joohyun
Don’t worry! I will try my very best to win for us. We are a competitive family. Do not think I will throw just because you are the challenger!
Iseul
It’s best out of 3 hands. Here are the rules...

If Sau and Joohyun win:

Taeyang
Iseul!! Why did you throw like that!?

Iseul massages the bridge of his nose.

Iseul
Maybe if you didn't throw away your Jack of Diamonds twice in a row...
Joohyun
Very good, very good! Now, let’s do the same in a Pokemon battle!

After winning Double Battle:

Joohyun
Congrats, Sau! It's because you had one of our waffles beforehand. They put everyone in a good mood.
Taeyang
I'm going to need a bunch of them. Hmph.
Iseul
Grats.
Taeyang
We should get back to work.
Joohyun
Chul will be on the roof! I'll tell Ryeowook to make sure the cameras are working so customers can watch on the screens.

They return to the kitchen - except Iseul, who lingers behind. He is the shortest of the three, yet he looks straight into Sau's eyes as he makes a request.

Iseul
It's been very busy for us lately - especially my brother. I'm sure he would appreciate it if you gave him a good battle. And compliment the restaurant while you're at it, if that isn't too much to ask.

He nods meaningfully as if to answer his own rhetorical question, leads Sau to the roof stairwell, then disappears. Sau heads to the roof to find Seungchul looking up past the waffle sign to the lighthouse. Though twilight approaches, its beacon remains unlit.

Seungchul
Hey, just let me make sure the cameras are working. The Gym Battles pull a good amount of spectators, but I'd rather them stay downstairs and order food while they watch. How was the food? Worth it, right?
Sau
Definitely. I was wondering if this Gym would have some sort of cooking element as part of the challenge, but I don't know if non-professionals could make something like this.
Seungchul
Yeah, we used to have the challengers help in the kitchen, but they were pretty bad at it. Couldn't tell a spatula from a socket wrench.
Sau
Oops. Not really good for business. Why would a socket wrench be in a kitchen...?
Seungchul
Yup. It’s like, do we really have time to ask everyone: ‘Do you cook like garbage a little bit, but wish you didn’t? Cool! Come to the Waffle House.’
Sau
They could get lessons from Iae or Ragya-Vara instead...
Seungchul
Yeah, those two are masters. Probably would blow this place out of the water if they set up a competitor shop.

There is a slight buzzing sound as a set of lights stationed dramatically along the rooftop blink on automatically with the advent of night. A few red dots pulse almost imperceptibly to Sau's sides; cameras beginning to record.

Seungchul
When you said 'definitely'... my siblings didn't pressure you to say that, did they?
Sau
Um... kind of... but I meant it, too.
Seungchul
Thanks. It's good to hear that. Let's get started, eh?

Upon sending out first Pokemon, Stunfisk:

Seungchul
Stunfisk pairs make for shit waffle irons. I thought this imported Galerian variant would be more effective than the Alolan. Nope.

Upon sending out last Pokemon, Dracozolt:

Seungchul
Aigoo, you’ve made short work of my team so far. Careful though, this last one is pretty WELL PUT TOGETHER.

Upon defeating Seungchul:

Seungchul
Heh. I'd forgotten what it was like to have a battle like that. Was good fun.

Taeyang sprints up to the stage holding a tablet.

Taeyang
All the customers loved the battle! We're getting a lot of orders - sorry to cut the mood, but can you help us out, Chul? Hyun had to slap a couple of hands away from the waffle irons because people were getting impatient. Oh, and congrats Sau! I'll forgive you for the euchre match.

Taeyang winks and sprints back down the stairs. Seungchul is looking at the still-dim lighthouse along the coast, and as he hands Sau the Gym Badge and a TM his thoughts seem thoroughly distracted.

Seungchul
Grats. Here you go, TM's Eerie Impulse, you know the drill by now...
Sau
Something on your mind?
Seungchul
Yeah, actually. Lighthouse is supposed to be lit this time of night. And there are a bunch of buoys that should be online as well. Normally they're programmed to auto-light, and I could take the trip to look at it, but-

Seungchul's phone begins to ring - or rather, pulse, as his ringtone is a series of curious beating noises with an ambient, hazelike synthesized background. He looks at it and starts to move towards the staircase.

Seungchul
Aish. I gotta help out or my crew is going to kill me. Sau, could you do me a favor and make sure there's nothing wrong with the building itself? The usual caretaker's been gone for... well, a while now.

He looks like he wants to explain more, but his phone, increasingly tachycardic, summons him back to work.

Sau
I'll check it out. There's a friend in town that knows more about code and stuff than me, so hopefully he can help.
Seungchul
'Preciate it. I'll be there when I can.

Millennia (Cianwood Town)[]

There is an ancient legend in the Cianwood region of the Sea Witch, a maiden of the mist that haunts fishing boats and seduces sailors to watery graves. According to the tales, the Sea Witch ran rampant for hundreds of years, bringing untold seamen to oblivion unchecked, until she fell in love with a martial artist returning home (to Cianwood) on a sailing boat after a war. So desperate for love was the Sea Witch that she followed him onto the mainland - only to dissipate in the full light of the sun when she discovers he already had a lover.

After the defeat and subsequent bankruptcy of musclehead Fighting Gym Leader Chuck to the legendary [Ethan/Krys/Lyra], a relatively unknown local trainer named Millennia returned from her victory at the Johto League and challenged Chuck herself, wagering all her exorbitant funds against Chuck's ownership of the Gym. The many onlookers impressed by the show of skill from [Ethan/Krys/Lyra] found themselves floored by Millennia.

And so she reigned; within the relatively small span of years since, Leader Millennia brought her gym to the world's stage, herself directly responsible for a good part of it thanks to her uniquely compelling persona of the Sea Witch of legend. Claiming to be a "long-lost descendant of the children of the Goddess", Millennia - or the Witch, as she's called by townspeople that but fear and respect her - runs her Water-type Witch's Cavern gym with an iron grip, but entices friends and foes alike with her stunning good looks and lascivious nature.

Said Witch's Cavern is deceptive by sight. Where Chuck's Dojo once stood is now a hot spring-esque resort and inn where the Sea Witch has a business and receives her guests. All challengers and Pokemon trainers find the Gym to be a floor below, where a treacherous underground tunnel leads to an open-air grotto at the heart of a small cavern. Challengers like Sau find they must traverse a convoluted labyrinth, dealing with mirror-tricks and the Witch's Trainers, should they want to arrive at the grotto's heart and battle the Witch herself.

Berah Years

  • Bio: Close friend and business partner of Millennia's. While she doesn't take her friend seriously when it comes to the whole "literal reincarnation of an ancient fisherman tale and futuristic scifi goddess all at once" spiel, Berah is quite supportive and doesn't take well to skeptics trying to blitz their way through the gym. Her Water type Pokemon end up an unexpected threat to players that don't take precaution against status ailments.
  • [ Always Seen by the Emperor-Eyes ] : Berah's Pokemon have increased chances of successfully landing status ailments (buffs AND debuffs).
  • Pokemon:
  • Slowking - batters the player with Scald and Future Sight after starting the battle with Rain Dance.
  • Azumarill - hits hard with Aqua Jet and Knock Off in between setting up Rain Dance or healing with Aqua Ring.
  • Kingdra - will be switched in immediately if Rain Dance is active and a debuff exists on the player. After boosting with Dragon Dance, deals massive damage with boosted Hydro Pump and Ice Beam.

Braxton Ring

  • Bio: The sole trainer still practicing Chuck's style of meditation/martial arts. Though he is an ardent practitioner of the style and a stalwart, principled man, Braxton is head over heels in love with the Sea Witch, and gleefully acts as muscle for her bidding. He is horrified about having to include a Water-type on his beloved Fighting-themed team. If players aren't ready, he'll do heavy damage against teams built to counteract Water!
  • [ Self-Illusion ] : Once per battle, by convincing himself (and his Pokemon) that Leader Millennia needs him to succeed, Braxton's leading Pokemon can survive a finishing blow and regains all PP in the process.
  • Pokemon:
  • Crabominable - straight up damage.
  • Poliwrath - counters Electric Pokemon with Dig.
  • Heracross - trained to counter against Grass Pokemon with Megahorn.
  • Alomomola - tanks and heals with Wish and Protect while debuffing with Toxic and Scald.

Ragya-Vara

Pk8 Ragya-Vara
  • Bio: Millennia's bodyguard slash dramatic lover (?). An exceptionally odd fellow that claims he'd "literally kill" anyone if the Witch desired. From his oddball personality to his unusual good looks, the "Rosary Assassin" gathers a fair number of fans to the Gym himself. He never shows them any mercy in battle. Uses the most Ice-type of the whole gym.
  • [ Forever Curse Fang ] : Once per battle, Ragya will either raise one of his critical Pokemon's HP to max or can lower all the PP of a random one of the player's Pokemon.
  • Pokemon:
  • Qwilfish - Sets up Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Rain Dance before Taunting enemies into submission.
  • Vaporeon - Heals with Aqua Ring, sets up Rain Dance if it's fallen, then attacks with either Surf or Ice Beam.
  • Toxapex - Heals with Recover and sets Toxic Spikes (if down) before sweeping with Surf or Blizzard (if not in Rain Dance).
  • Frosslass - Slows foes with Icy Wind, links with Destiny Bond (if the player has less Pokemon than Ragya), then sweeps with Frost Breath and Water Pulse.

Pk8 Millennia
  • Bio: Self-proclaimed "incarnation of the Eternal Sea Witch of the Stars", and leader of the Cianwood Gym. She is a beautiful dark-haired woman covered in robes of varying hues of sea-blue. Voluptuous and attractive in an intimidating way (see: Cynthia).
  • Tyrant Eyes: Can foresee the movements of the player; on turns when a player Pokemon is switched in, Millennia's Pokemon always go first, regardless of Speed stat.
  • Pokemon:
  • Tentacruel - Burns with Scald and attacks with Surf / Sludge Bomb.
  • Gyarados -
  • Slowbro -
  • Primarina - Wrecks with Moonblast, Sparkling Aria, and Psychic; heals with Rest.
  • Volcanion (!) - Ruins with Steam Eruption, Fire Blast, and Earth Power; also hits with Sludge Bomb.
  • Cloyster - Often will switch in, set Spikes, and switch out. When last Pokemon: uses Shell Smash and proceeds to sweep with Ice Shard. Not afraid to use Explosion in a pinch to force a draw.

Upon entering the gym

???
The eyes of the Goddess have opened...
Sau
...?
Berah
Oh! Hi there. Don't mind the intercom, it does that whenever a new Trainer arrives. You are a new challenger, yes?
Sau
Er... yes, but I thought this was...
Berah
A gym? It is! All that's in the basement, though.
Sau
And what's all this...?
Berah
The inn of the Sea Witch! Enchanting, isn't it? The feng shui was all mine.
Sau
Ah...
Berah
How rude of me! My name is Berah Years. If you're ready for your challenge, I'll lead the way down to the Witch's Cavern for you. Milly's waiting for you.
Sau
So she really is a Witch?
Berah
You'll have to beat me to find out! That's right, did I surprise you? I'll be your first opponent!

Upon player victory

Meeting Braxton

Meeting Ragya

Ragya
You have done well to make it this far. However, this is as far as you go...
Sau
Hi. I'm Sau. Nice to meet you.
Ragya
It is a pleasure to meet you as well. How young. You still have the light of a child in your eyes...
Sau
...Thanks?
Ragya
...that idealistic glow over your shadow, the immortal confidence you have yet to shed... How exciting. I'm hoping this will be a good fight. You will give me your all, won't you, son of the suns? For you are old enough to know the value of combat. The beating of the heart in the chest, the clash of will against will.
Sau
Uh... sure.
Ragya
It is not my will that you be eradicated... such is the will of the Witch. My Goddess in her heaven. And like an angel, like the spear of a wrathful divinity, I stand in the way of her would-be assassins, protecting her glory and my purpose, sharp as a fang of the night. Prepare yourself.
Sau
Right...

Meeting Millennia

Millennia
So you have defeated even the Rose. An impressive feat, Trainer. Not all can accomplish that. Will you tell me your name?
Sau
Sau.
Millennia
Short and powerful. I like that. I am Millennia, the Sea Witch, Leader of this Gym. I have a special ability - this propensity for combat with our beloved Pokemon - and it is my duty to use my ability to the fullest. It is the will of the Goddess. You know something of that duty, too, don't you?
Sau
...
Millennia
I see you have come a long way to challenge me in my domain. I will not waste our time any further. Let our eyes and our friends do all the talking; our souls consume each other in the clash of equal will. Show me your strength.


|}


Zadimortis (Mahogany Town)[]

Nestled away in the northernmost corner of Mahogany Town sits The Great Wheel, a temple themed around life and death, light and darkness. It is rumored that the gym leader, Zadimortis, is an immortal from ancient times who built the monolithic stone temple with his own hands... but these rumors are probably grossly exaggerated.

The gym is comprised of three concentric rings around the center dais, where Zadimortis awaits. Each ring is home to a Trainer that must be beaten in order to progress into the next ring. However, these rings are riddled with traps, and the gym begins in total darkness - the HM Flash can be used to grant a small circle of illumination around Sau.

Moreover, whenever Sau leaves the gym, the rings rotate to a new configuration, making repeated navigation difficult and maps useless.

Defeating Zadimortis grants the Shadow Walk TM, which greatly reduces the rate of random encounters while on the field.


Father Griffith

  • Bio: A wise yet optimistic man and longtime friend of Zadimortis. Enjoys seeing the looks on trainers' faces as they work their way through the Wheel. On his off days, he takes cooking lessons from Iae at the Centre of the Land and Hand, and has been trying to convince Zadimortis (unsuccessfully, thus far) to join him.
  • Pokemon:
  • Honchkrow
  • Bisharp
  • Mandibuzz
  • Pangoro

Mother Olivia

  • Bio: A sharp, judgmental woman who trained under Zadimortis and was the first full-time Gym trainer before Griffith and the Hierophant. Originally fostered dreams of being in the Elite Four, but since working as a trainer, has decided it's too much work and is content where she's at.
  • Pokemon:
  • Umbreon
  • Sylveon
  • Liepard
  • Florges

The Hierophant

  • Bio: Just appeared in the gym one day. Griffith and Olivia raised concerns, but Zadimortis waved them down. His history, as well as his relationship to Zadimortis, is entirely unknown, but he seems nice enough when the team trains together.
  • Special Effect - Harbinger: Whenever a Pokemon enters the field, it falls under the effect of Perish Song.
  • Pokemon:
  • Spiritomb
  • Clefable
  • Lunatone
  • Sigilyph

Pk8 Zadimortis
  • Bio: A dark-skin, muscled giant in hooded white robes that have seen better days. Lugubrious and erudite, imposing at first but a strong leader and great mentor. Will neither confirm nor deny that he is, in fact, a millenia-old demigod that built the Temple thousands of years ago by his own hands.
  • Special Effect - Judgment: If Flash was used to navigate the temple, all of Zadimortis's Pokemon will begin with all stats increased by one step. If Flash was not used, all of Sau's Pokemon will begin with all stats increased by one step.
  • Pokemon:
  • Absol
  • Weavile
  • Zoroark
  • Tyranitar

Upon reaching Father Griffith

Griffith
Welcome, child.
Sau
I was wondering when the gyms were going to get rough... guess this is it.
Griffith
You have navigated the outer wheel quite well. I have been watching you.
Sau
"Outer" wheel? So there's more? Wonderful.
Griffith
Much and more. This is only the beginning of your journey.
Sau
You could at least leave the lights on.
Griffith
But what good would that do when you are lost in the night? The world is not always alight. It is folly to live your life in the daylight and see the night as a detriment. To fully live, you must embrace both light and darkness.
Sau
That's a fair point, I guess.
Griffith
There is more to be learned, but that is for later. Now, we duel.

Battle: Defeat Griffith!

Griffith
May you go farther in darkness.



Upon reaching Mother Olivia

Olivia
Hm hm hm... well done, child.
Sau
I wish people would stop calling me that.
Olivia
Perhaps when you prove you are more than a child.
Sau
I mean, I have six gym badges, and have traveled the world pretty much on my own.
Olivia
Well then, what title would you give yourself? Slayer of gyms? Roamer of the wilds?
Sau
N-nothing so fancy.
Olivia
How about "walker", then? You have walked many arduous paths to get here. And now, you walk the stone wheels of life.
Sau
Is that a metaphor, or is that what this wheel we're in is called?
Olivia
Both.
Sau
Should've known. "Walker" it is, then, I guess.
Olivia
Very well, walker of many paths, walker of life's wheel.

Battle: Defeat Olivia!

Olivia
Hm hm hm... well done, walker.



Upon reaching The Hierophant

Hierophant
Hello, walker Sau.
Sau
You know my name?
Hierophant
I know many things.
Sau
Oh god...
Hierophant
You have walked the stone wheels of life and death. You have walked the light and darkness in-
Sau
Hang on. I thought all the wheels were called the 'wheel of life'? That's what Olivia said?
Hierophant
...well, the wheels as a whole are called the Wheels of Life and Death, but her wheel in particular is the wheel of life-
Sau
So what's the third wheel called? If there's life and death, there should be another one?
Hierophant
If you are referring to the Wheel of Light, then yes, that is the name of the third-
Sau
But why not call them the Wheels of Life, Death, and Light?
Hierophant
It doesn't quite flow the same. And it's not what the Temple represents.
Sau
I thought that's exactly what the temple represented.
Hierophant
Perhaps our time would be better spent dueling instead of debating semantics.
Sau
Probably.

Battle: Defeat The Hierophant!

Hierophant
Good. I am glad you have won. Nothing disturbs me more than argumentative milksop who can't back up their opinions.
Sau
I don't see how my skill with Pokemon relates to my ability to argue, but okay...



Upon reaching the central dais

Zadimortis
...
Sau
You run one hell of a gym.
Zadimortis
I have been told this.
Sau
So are you also going to give me some weird cryptic shpeal about life and death, or...?
Zadimortis
No. You have made it through the Wheel. You have proven mastery over all my temple has to share. This is the final test of that understanding.
Sau
All right, let's do this.

Battle: Defeat Gym Leader Zadimortis!

If Flash was used:

Zadimortis
The Wheel has found you... wanting.

If Flash was not used:

Zadimortis
The Wheel has found you... worthy.


Zadimortis
Excellent. With this badge, you join an elite rank of trainers who understand the world for what it truly is, and can overcome it with power and grace.
Sau
Thanks. This one was a doozy. Is the next gym just as bad?
Zadimortis
...In a manner of speaking.
Sau
Not sure what that means, but I'll be ready.
Zadimortis
Yes, I believe you will.

Clair (Blackthorn City)[]

Situated in the farthest depths of Blackthorn's ancient Dragon's Den lies the Aether Abyss, a chamber pulsating with visible veins of magical energy alternating between bright pink and smoke black. The main challenge of the gym is getting through the tough wild Pokemon of the maze-like and waterlogged Dragon's Den before it. Once through to the Aether Abyss, the cave opens up and a series of rope ladders reach up towards a break in the rocky ceiling to the open sky above. Challengers must avoid the streams of aether in narrow tunnels, where Clair's friends wait. Being hit by a pink aether stream decreases all of the party Pokemon's Attack and Special Attack by one stage, while being hit by a dark aether stream decreases all of the party Pokemon's Defense and Special Defense by one stage. These effects can be stacked, but the effects of one color aether will cancel out a stack of the other color.


Scarlet, the Mystic Reaper

  • Bio:
  • Pokemon:

Tsubaki and Sakura, the Twins

  • Bio:
  • Pokemon:

Zane, the Raging Dragon

Pk8 Zane
  • Pokemon:

Pk8 Clair
  • Bio:
  • Mana Slinger: When a Pokemon faints, all of its stat changes and status effects are transferred to the next Pokemon on their team to be sent out.
  • Pokemon:
  • Kingdra - spams Dragon Dance, raising Attack and Speed.
  • Flygon - Uses an assortment of powerful physical attacks to take advantage of Kingdra's stat boosts.
  • Alolan Ninetales - spams Nasty Plot, severely increasing Special Attack.
  • Ampharos - Uses an assortment of powerful special attacks to take advantage of Alolan Ninetales's stat boosts.
  • Salazzle - Attempts to inflict Burn or Poison on the opponent.
  • Hydreigon - By this point, Clair's stat boosts have made this already OP AF Pokemon even more so.

Upon entering the gym

Blade
Whoa whoa whoa, who the hell do you think you are, barging in like that?
Sau
I have seven Gym badges. And I helped out with all the stuff in Mahogany Town.
Blade
Huh? What happened in Mahogany Town?
Sau
Uh... I know this is kind of an isolated place, but...
Blade
Nevermind that! Welcome to Blackthorn City Gym! *appraises Sau approvingly* I can tell you're a man with an appreciation for a good tan. Even though you're kind of a scrawny nerd.
Sau
Oh. Thanks. I think you should probably be aware of what the Consortium's been-
Blade
Oh, what? The consortium? Man, no one wants to go through the Ice Path to deal with those people. It's not worth getting into a rivalry with them!
Sau
I think I know why they were able to get away with so many things if you're their 'rivals'...
Blade
What was that?
Sau
Nothing. Are you going to tell me about this gym? It's very pink. And black.
Blade
Oh yeah, Gym Leader's Clair, Master of Dragons. I'd fight you as part of the screening, but I can't stand being stuck inside this dank pit. Speaking of which, I'm gonna go topside and catch some rays, so good luck, little buddy. *leaves*
Sau
"Little buddy?"

Upon meeting Scarlet

Battle - Defeat Scarlet!

Upon defeating Scarlet


Upon meeting Tsubaki and Sakura

Battle - Defeat Tsubaki and Sakura!

Upon defeating Tsubaki and Sakura


Upon meeting Zane

Zane
You did pretty well to make it this far, but you won't be going any further. This is the top-rated Gym... and I'm the top-tier Warrior of Madness.
Sau
What does that even mean?
Zane
*holding hand over face* It means I'm the Raging Dragon of Blackthorn City!
Sau
That makes even less sense.

Battle - Defeat Zane!

Zane
*narrows eyes * Entertain me!

Upon defeating Zane

Zane
Pah. Got too cocky again. Don't think too much of yourself - my sis taught me humility, and she'll teach it to you too.
Sau
Looks like she didn't do a very good job...

Upon meeting Clair:

Clair
Oh wow, another overbaked turkey! Did you and Blade become best friends?
Sau
No. He was too loud.
Clair
*laughs* Rude! You remind me of another overbaked turkey I've met...
Sau
You don't remind me of the Clair I thought ran this gym. I think she was more serious.
Clair
Yeah, I took over for that old woman. She was getting upset because she kept losing to Fairies. I've learned from her mistakes and even have a cute Fairy on my team. Matches my aesthetic perfectly ~
Sau
Sure. *taps Pokeball languidly*
Clair
Jeez, you're no fun. Maybe you'll brighten up a little after I kick your ass. You'll find out why I'm the top-rated and cutest Gym Leader! Fufufufu!

Battle - Defeat Gym Leader Clair!

Upon sending out Hydreigon:

Clair
Fufufu... now I'm ready to go in guns blazing.

Upon defeating Clair:

Clair
What... I lost!? My all powerful Hydregion never loses! *sob* This isn't fair!!!

Elite Four[]

The paths the Elite Four took to seize the titles of the most powerful Trainers in Johto involve unique and masterful combinations of skill and guile. Over the years, they have also grown less content to remain in their ivory towers and await challenges. Instead, they exert their influence on the world - some seen, some unseen, yet another common thread binds them: the hand of the Consortium.

April Augustus[]

Pk8 April

Hailing from eastern Kalos, April spent much of her young adulthood extensively traveling between her own nation and Galar. She was born the middle child into a royal family, though she was demoted behind her younger sister in the line of succession due to her blindness. This ended up being somewhat of a blessing in disguise, as she was able to avoid responsibility for many duties. Somehow, most of these landed on her younger sister and not her elder brother, the current king. By the time her brother took the throne, April had chosen to break most of her ties with her family and build a formidable career in Johto as a Pokemon Trainer and eventual Elite Four member.

This is not to say she does not miss her birthplace. Many a visitor to her Olivine oceanfront chalet has heard the sweet yet somber tones of a piano or cello carrying the voice of a Kalosian melody. When asked why she had chosen this particular location as a temporary residence when not performing League duties, she simply responded that it reminded her of home.

Pokemon:

  • Noivern
  • Aegislash
  • Toxtricity (Low Key Forme)
  • Galarian Slowking
  • Corviknight
  • Diancie (Mega)


Julian Adbelasch[]

Pk8 JulianAdbelasch

A masked man of many mysteries, Julian is a renowned researcher and computer scientist. A former high-ranking employee of the Consortium, he developed novel cryptography methods, including many that interfaced with Psychic-type Pokemon. Due to the nature of his work, Julian has become a renowned Psychic-type trainer, his unique skillset making him a valuable freelance consultant in a variety of high-profile areas. He considers his position within the Johto Elite Four secondary to his consulting work, making him an ephemeral presence around all of Johto and neighboring regions.

Roster:

  • Noctowl
  • Espeon
  • Johtic Jynx
  • Porygon-MAX
    • Possesses the attack "Hexapod Volley": a 60 power Normal attack that fires 3-5 times at random enemy targets.
  • Reuniclus
    • Its visual model features a large mechanical halo with an antennae coming off the top at an angle.
    • Possesses the trait "Modular Defense System": at the end of each turn, Reuniclus and its field partner become resistant to the type of the last attack used against it.


Khan[]

Pk8 Khan

A charismatic, very personable member of the Elite Four that can be found sporadically in various social functions around the region. Khan is a very striking, very well-dressed man with a mane of curly brown hair. Despite his good looks and affable, subdued personality, he spends most of his day drinking...Jaboca Berry juice...to the point of hallucination - he is well-known for claiming to frequently communicate with ghosts. Somehow, Khan is in perfect health after years of this lifestyle, and in the depths of his delirium he ranks as a world-class Pokemon master. He claims not to remember the entire competitive season that lead to him winning a seat in the Elite Four. Has never once been seen eating, but usually has a drink or cigarette in his hand. His favorite party trick is to wager startling amounts of money on Pokemon battles.

It is said he fears only one person in the Pokemon world: Niña, his scorned lover.

Specialty: Ghost-type Pokemon:

  • Reuniclus
  • Spiritomb
  • Cofagrigus
  • Cursola
  • Zoroark


Jian Yu[]

Pk8 JianYu

Possibly the most enigmatic member of the Johto Elite Four. Jian is a thin, severe, middle-aged woman who appears to be a scientist, going by the labcoat she generally wears. She is an expert in Pokemon behaviour, both wild and captured, but if she feels any warmth towards them, it is never visible in her demeanour. Outside her official duties as an Elite Four member, she is difficult to entice into battle - but once her interest is sparked, she will push both her Pokemon and her opponent's to their limits. Her reasons for joining the League are unknown.

She is first introduced to Sau in the Wild Area, where she will occasionally appear to offer him advice on observing Pokemon...if by "advice", one means "unsettling commentary". When speaking to her, Sau often gets the sense that he, too, is being observed and analysed.

A friend of Huang's, a "friend" of David's, and not at all a friend of Doctor Duncan Duncen.

Pokemon:

  • Alakazam
  • Hypno
  • Porygon-Z
  • Lucario
  • Xatu
  • Deoxys


8[]

Pk8 8

Pokemon:


Locations[]

MooMoo Farm[]

Starting location.

  • Pokemon:
    • Mareep
    • Far'fetchd
    • Magnemite
    • Sunkern
    • Hoothoot
    • Pineco
    • Ducklett
    • Yamper
    • Zigzagoon
    • Exeggcute
    • Rockruff
    • Tauros
    • Miltank

New Bark Town[]

Once the home of one of the most famous Pokemon League winners, New Bark Town now exists mostly as a conduit between Johto and Kanto. A bustling commercial centre lies on the east side of the town, with refreshments, tourism information, guides and battle facilities for eager travellers. Ethan's house is one of the few original buildings that remain, but has been transformed into a museum.

When Sau and Amakir reaches New Bark Town, he spots a familiar figure standing near an abandoned building...

Walkrin
No matter how many times I see it, I feel like my heart breaks every time.

The Consortium woman's pose is dejected, lacking all of her usual questionable passion. She is dressed casually in a t-shirt and slacks. She sighs heavily, sits down on the steps that lead to the entrance and takes out a sandwich from her backpack.

Walkrin
You don't mind if I take a break here, right?
Spam and cheese. Your favourite. I can almost pretend I'm sharing lunch with you.
Amakir
You! Evil-doer! What nefarious plan are you up to here? Are even sleepy towns not small enough for your schemes?

Walkrin drops her sandwich.

Walkrin
Oh. It's you.
Amakir
Yes! Prepare to face-
Walkrin
Mind going away? I'm on holiday.
Amakir
I highly doubt that.
Tell me what you're doing here!

Whilst Amakir interrogates the depressed researcher, Sau busies himself investigating the building. There is a sign in front, mostly covered in ivy and spiderwebs. He brushes it aside gingerly and reads the sign aloud.

Walkrin
What does it look like I'm doing? I'm visiting my hometown.
Now, shoo.
Sau
"Professor Elm's Laboratory"
Walkrin
Yeah, my father was Professor Elm. So this is my property and I'm telling you to buzz off.
Amakir
Like that ever stopped you from stealing Pokemon from their natural habitats.
Walkrin
How many times do I have to tell you? The Consortium bought all that land through perfectly legal venues and are in fact responsible for transforming large areas of it into natural reserves for research on- *sighs* I shouldn't even bother.
Sau
You're way ruder than normal today. And you haven't even tried to steal my Magnemite.
Walkrin
Am I? I suppose so, yes yes.
We all need time off.
Amakir
I don't understand how you can sit here so calmly. How could you face going back to your father's place of research when you've committed so many atrocities - you've perverted the name of science. How could you do that to his legacy?

Walkrin's face flickers through several expressions. For a moment she looks like she's going to cry. Then she freezes, mask-like, her face at odds with her usual honeyed tones.

Walkrin
Tell me, dearie, do you think Pokemon possess a conception of the idea of home? How about family? Or property? Do you think they own themselves, sweetie?
Amakir
Of course they do!
Walkrin
Then tell me where your Pokemon come from. Where did you catch them, hm? This cute little Morgrem? Your Raboot would have had many siblings as a Scorbunny. Do you think it misses them? I'll even let you check your Pokedex before answering. Go ahead, oh yes yes, I'll wait. What I want to know if you've ever brought them back. Do they want to join your little mission? Do they ever get to choose?
My father made sure I knew exactly where each Pokemon we took came from. Even now I do.
Amakir
That's completely different. My Pokemon are happy with me.
Walkrin
How do you know?
Amakir
It's obvious. We love each other.
Walkrin
How do you know they wouldn't have been happier living naturally in the wild?
Amakir
You're only saying this because your greed blinds you to the fact that humans and Pokemon are capable of working in harmony!
Walkrin
I suspect I've seen a lot more of humans and Pokemon than you kids have, dearie.
Everything comes with a cost. Pokemon are eaten by humans and other Pokemon. Pokemon are hurt in the battle and the wild. They lose choice when they are owned. They are given to 10 year old children - how many of them do you think are perfect owners. They are...

Walkrin glances at the windows on the side of the Laboratory. One has been noticeably repaired. Her hand reflexively squeezes one of her own Pokeballs.

Walkrin
...stolen.
All we can do is try to make them happier than they would be. Overall.
Magnemite
This unit is happy.
Sau
It's okay, Magnemite. You can speak up.
Magnemite
This unit is happy! With Sau!
Walkrin
Is that so?
...
I'm glad, Magnemite.
I only hope all Magnemites will be as happy as you, one day.

If Sau comes back to talk to Walkrin whilst she is still in New Bark Town.

Walkrin
I'm trying, Dad. I'm trying so hard.
Hm, Sau? And dear Magnemite! Have you come to your senses about giving it to me? Oh, yes yes yes...!
Sau
Uh...no.

Wild Area[]

The vast expanse of mostly unsettled land in the northern region of Johto. Four great cities are positioned at cardinal points along its periphery: Olivine in the west, Ecruteak in the north, Violet in the east, and Goldenrod in the south. The terrain varies drastically from the somewhat domesticated Nation Park outside of Goldenrod to the treacherous marshland to the west of Ecruteak.

As in Sword/Shield, the Wild Area is home to a vast range of Pokemon who can be observed in their natural habitats. The quiet observer may encounter Pokemon feeding, raising their young, courting and engaging in cooperative or even symbiotic behaviour. Rare, Johtic forms of Pokemon are also more common here.

After witnessing the "NEED MORE DATA" event, Sau and Magnemite will semi-randomly encounter various Wild Events in the wild areas. These scenes will trigger on the map when Magnemite exclaims a "!" over himself, and must be interacted with in a certain time frame before the opportunity goes away. Most events are random, and each area's events can generally be broken down into several types: two Normal, one Uncommon, one Rare, and one Special event, always requiring some sort of trigger to activate (though other events may also require triggers). Witnessing these events will grant Data Points (DP), which can be traded with Doctor Duncan Duncen for various rewards.

Inhabitants[]

  • Doctor Duncan Duncen: Resides in the Tonberry Laboratories, located close to the Goldenrod border of the Wild Area. Will give Sau missions for Pokemon behaviour to observe.
  • Professor David Atua: Can sometimes be found wandering the environments of the Wild Area, usually up to no good. A helpful source of camping and adventuring supplies.
  • Jian: A mysterious woman who will occasionally give Sau advice regarding observation.
  • Witch Hallifax: A witch who lives in a distant corner of the Thirteen Orphans.
  • Nam Mo: What Nam Mo hopes to achieve in begging in the Wild Area is something of a mystery. Possibly she is just here for Aunty to hunt Rattata.

Events[]

This scene is triggered the first time Sau encounters the border to the Wild Area, just south of Ecruteak City. Sau stands at the gate leading to the area. It is covered in several alarming signs with small, non-reassuring capital letters and is partially overgrown with ivy.

Sau
It's...very dark.
Magnemite
Agreed. Visibility is at close to 20%. Analysis suggests that your pathetic human eyes will not be able to function at any kind of efficiency.
Bzzt. Conclusion: Go in there and you are doomed.
David
Hey, howzit?
Sau
Ack! Where did you come from?

David grins. He has a camping bag slung casually over his shoulder, but is still wearing his labcoat.

David
I've finished my business in Ecruteak, so I thought I'd go for a stroll.
Sau
In there.
David
I didn't say it'd be a relaxing stroll. What would be the point of that?
Anyway, how about you? Going into the Wild Area already? You've got guts, kid.
Sau
I'm reconsidering that now.
David
Aw, it's not so bad. Does pay to be prepared, though. Here.

Sau obtained a Tent!

David
Honestly, it's my favourite part of Johto. You can see Pokemon totally untouched. They act completely differently to what you might be familiar with.
Sau
I thought your specialty was the interaction of Trainers and Pokemon?
David
Yeah. Doesn't mean I don't regret it, sometimes.
Sau
Huh?
David
No worries. Just an adult thing.
Sau
I'm not sure you're the world's best example of adulthood.
David
It's another little project of mine. I write notes on what I see out there and put it in my Pokedex.
Actually, it started out as an offshoot of research a colleague of mine is doing. He lives in the Wild Area near Goldenrod. Why don't you go visit him?
As an incentive, how about you keep showing me your Dex when we meet up, and I'll help you with some equipment? The more you have, the further you'll be able to explore.
Magnemite
This unit concurs with the Professor's analysis. Certainly gathering more information will expand your potential as a Pokemon Trainer and increase the diversity of your team.
Sau
Hm. Okay.
David
Cheers!

David vanishes rapidly into the dark forest. Sau stares at the gate for a few more minutes before visibly gathering himself.

Sau
Here we go!

The Tonberry Labs turn out to be a remarkably modern, pure white building that stands out amidst the green of the National Park. Abutting the building is a homey cottage which radiates comfort. Sadly, this atmosphere of Gemütlichkeit is ruined by a series of loud bangs and an irritated squawk emerging from the Laboratory. This is followed by a beam of violently magenta light that blasts its way through the roof.

Sau
Maybe I should have guessed that Professor David's colleague would be just as crazy as he is.

Gingerly, Sau knocks on the door. It swings open - the door handle appears to have been blown to smithereens and only haphazardly replaced.

???
Telluri? Is that you? Just in time; the bloody Dynamax watch fell apart again. I swear the Galan engineers aren't capable of putting together a flask that doesn't break as soon as you sneeze. Fetch me the screwdriver again, will you?
Sau
Hello?
???
What? Have you brought along a boyfriend? Sounds a bit young for you, to be honest. Telluri!
Sau
Uh, sorry, I'm not Telluri. I'm Sau, a Pokemon Trainer. Professor Atua sent me.
???
Atua! What is that rascal up to now?
Sau
Last I saw, climbing a mountain with a couple of pegs and a rope.
???
Sounds about right. And sent you to me, did he?

An elderly man in a rather more elaborate labcoat than David's emerges from the room. He wears glasses heavily augmented with tiny sensors, extra lenses and other mysterious devices. His grey hair is singed somewhat.

???
Doctor Duncan Duncen. You can call me Doctor, or Duncan, or D3. Whatever you want.
Sau
T-thanks, Doctor.
D3
Ah, what do we have here!

With a much more sprightly motion than could be expected, D3 jumps forward and seizes Magnemite.'

Magnemite
Bzzt. Abort! Abort! I protest this treatment! Abort!
D3
Hold still, you sentient lump of metal. I just need to-

D3 turns around with Magnemite still struggling in his hands. A variety of drilling, sparking and metallic noises can be heard, along with Magnemite's increasingly higher-pitched protests. After a disturbing few minutes, D3 turns around and presents Magnemite back to Sau.

D3
All done! Now your Magnemite can have data entered regarding your observations for me in the Wild Area. I have also adjusted it so it can accept new observational missions from me.
Sau
Hang on a sec, I didn't agree to-
D3
Now, now. I understand the desire for independent research, but you're very young. You'll flourish under the guidance and mentorship of a senior fellow like myself. Why, I did plenty of years under a number of famous scientists myself - and Lugia knows I chafed, but it did me a world of good.
Sau
But-
D3
Go out into the world, boy! The mysteries of Pokemon behaviour await you!
For your first task, I suggest you seek out the Pokemon dens lying around the Wild Area. Powerful Pokemon may lurk within them, attracted by strang energies. A perfect place to seek more data!
Sau
I-
D3
I've also added functionality to Magnemite to send your mother emails. Really, we get worried when we don't hear from our kids. Now run along!

D3 shoves Sau back through the door. It swings shut firmly behind him.

Magnemite
Need more data!
Sau
What did you say?
Magnemite
Nothing.

In an isolated glade in Sentret's Sentinel, Sau encounters a middle-aged woman dressed in a labcoat. Her black hair, streaked with silver, is tied in a severe bun. Despite the wild surroundings, her clothing and demeanour appear impeccable.

Her focus is directed at a patch of featureless ground to one side. A little way out from her outstretched hand, a Pichu is cautiously creeping forward to investigate the Berry that she holds.

The woman tilts her head very slightly. Despite the minuteness of that gesture, Sau takes the message. He freezes.

The Pichu suddenly darts forward and grabs the Berry from the woman's hand. It retreats back into the bushes to consume it.

???
Next time, it will feed from my hand.
Sau
How do you know that?
???
Observation.
Sau
Are you one of Doctor Duncen's colleagues? Or Professor David's?

The woman smiles. The expression is neither friendly nor unfriendly.

Jian
Not precisely. My name is Jian; my research is my own. But I know them.
I see you have been roped into observing Pokemon for the Doctor.
Sau
It sort of...just happened.
Jian
The old fool thinks that he find the information he wants from the dens.
It's performance there. Pure performance. If you want to really understand Pokemon, your best bet is to find them in the untouched wilds. Observe long enough, then you know the way into their minds and hearts. Then they'll let you in.
Sau
Why do you make that sound so ominous?
Jian
It can be, in the wrong hands. With the wrong ideas.
Sau
What's your idea, then?

Jian smiles again - translucent and unknowable.

Jian
Potential.
Good luck, Sau. If you wish to observe the Pikachus tending their family groups, you would be wise to harvest the Tamato Berry. They adore it.
Sau
Hang on, when did you learn my name?

Thirteen Orphans[]

Marshland to the west of Ecruteak City. A safe path through this area is hard to find, but made easier by a baker's dozen of waymarks constructed across patches of high ground.

Pokemon[]
  • Gastly
  • Wooper
  • Hondour
  • Stantler
  • Girafarig
  • Sableye
  • Mawile
  • Drifloon
  • Dewpider
  • Dreepy
Wild Events[]

  • Log Name: "Butting Heads"
  • Rarity: 30% upon event trigger
  • DP Rewarded: 50 for first encounter, 10 afterward

From the brush beside Sau, a mass charges past him.

Sau
Wha-!?

A roaring cry, followed by a crack of bone on bone. The cry devolves to growling.

Sau
Let’s get out of here-
Magnemite
Need more data!
Sau
What?
Magnemite
What?
Sau
You just said-

A roar and blast of heat interrupts the duo as a wave of flame casts the nearby brush in an orange glow.

Sau
It’s attacking us!
Magnemite
False. Observe.

Sau slowly works up the courage to peer over the brush. In the small clearing beyond, he sees the source of the flame burst - a Houndoom, head down, mouth steaming, pawing the ground in anticipation. With a sudden bark, it charges, and its quarry becomes evident as a Stantler from several meters away meets it in the middle, the crack of bone on bone echoing once again throughout the swamp.

Sau
Ow! That looked like it hurt…
Magnemite
And yet, they seem unaffected. They appear to enjoy this activity.

True to Magnemite’s word, the beasts part ways again, each one displaying a show of force - Houndoom spitting fire, Stantler firing rays of psychic energy off its antlers.

Magnemite
Observe how they attack not to cause damage, but to put on a display. This behavior is common among mating males of the same species, but naturally, these are not. Furthermore, the Houndoom is a female, and the Stantler a male. They are under no competition for resources or partners.
Sau
You can tell their gender just by looking at them?
Magnemite
No, by their accent.
Sau
...

The displays and headbutting follow for several more rounds, fatigue slowly taking over both participants. Eventually, the Stantler lowers its head, and the Houndoom follows suit. The two silently part ways, disappearing into the brush.

Magnemite
Remarkable data, indeed. The Doctor will be pleased.
Sau
That was... definitely something. I’m glad you stopped me.

  • Log Name: "What's That Smell?"
  • Rarity: 40% upon event trigger
  • DP Rewarded: 50 for first encounter, 10 afterward

Sau steps into a puddle of muck, retracting his foot in disgust.

Sau
Ew... didn't see that - Magnemite?

He turns around and notices the absence of his steel companion. Instead, Magnemite floats several meters away, observing quietly from its singular eye.

Magnemite
Interesting...
Sau
Why are you over there... and I'm over here...?
Magnemite
Do you not smell that?
Sau
Smell wh- Oh. Oh. Ew.

Sau retreats hastily to Magnemite's position, then sniffs the air again.

Magnemite
You notice it as well? The stench begins past this point, but outside of this region it is almost indetectable.
Sau
I'll be honest, I didn't know you had a sense of smell.
Magnemite
This unit have many senses, most of which were added by Hanji.

Magnemite floats forward, wiggles his magnets, then retreats again.

Magnemite
This unit's hypothesis is correct. The gas from this area in front of us seems to be traveling straight up.
Sau
I did feel the wind change a bit...
Magnemite
I suspect we are over a peculiar methanogenic vent. A particularly powerful one, at that.
Sau
Methanogenic? Makes methane...?
Magnemite
It is the reason swamps are swampy. Low-oxygen environments are where methanogenic bacteria thrive. But to see an area so concentrated is curious indeed.
Sau
There aren't any Pokemon around this border either.
Magnemite
There most definitely are. There is a Gengar watching you from inside the border, invisible.
Sau
What!?
Magnemite
I am joking. It is only a Haunter.
Sau
WHAT!?
Magnemite
Fascinating, though, that only the ghost-types inhabit this area. Many ghost-types still diffuse air, even if they do not need food or water. Either these do not have such a need, or there is something else about this area that draws them... or perhaps excludes the others-
Sau
That's enough data for today. We leave. Now!

Sau begins walking away in earnest. Magnemite remains, hovering erratically around the barrier.

Magnemite
But I have hypotheses to-
Sau
Hypothesize in your ball!
Magnemite
No- this obstruction of Science will not be tol-

Magnemite's final protests are drowned out as it disintegrates into red rays of data, returning to its Pokeball. Sau starts marching away with haste.

Sau
I'm having a word with that doctor...

  • Log Name: "Like Nobody's Watching"
  • Rarity: 20% upon event trigger. Only triggers when in the presence of one of the thirteen stone pillars.
  • DP Rewarded: 100 for first encounter, 25 afterward

Sau
It’s a lot… bigger than I expected, up close.

Sau and Magnemite take pause before a craggy stone pillar, reaching into the sky - one of the titular Orphans, easily twice as tall as Sau.

Magnemite
It is unknown what force brought about these pillars, but their presence outlines a distinct habitat for a variety of Pokemon unique to the region.
Sau
It reminds me of the ocean.
Magnemite
...It does?
Sau
Something so much bigger than me, that’s a home for so many…
Magnemite
Fascinating.
Sau
Really?
Magnemite
Not you. Look.

Sau looks up and sees a figure atop the pillar, formerly obscured, rising to its feet.

Sau
What is that!?
Magnemite
It would appear to be a Mawile.

The Mawile looks wistfully towards the sky, before rising a single arm straight forward, and the other straight up.

Magnemite
Perhaps it is trying to detect prevailing winds for hunting-

With a graceful sweep, the Mawile drops both arms, swinging them back up again in an arc, spinning around in a graceful dance.

Magnemtie
Or not.
Sau
Wow…

The Mawile’s dance continues, casting writhing shadows on the swamp bed in the light of the setting sun. Sau watches, silent, captivated.

Magnemite
Perhaps… it is signaling? A mating ritual of some sort? But there are none to observe it… perhaps it is an intimidation of-
Sau
Shush!

Magnemite’s circuits whir audibly, while Sau watches the Mawile, entranced.

Sau
Back home, there was a girl who would go out on the beaches before the sun came up and practice her hula. I always saw her, because I had to be up with my dad before harvest hours to clean the tools. She was much older than me, but she was incredibly beautiful. The way she moved, totally silent, alone on that beach, like she was just a natural part of it. This reminds me of that.
Magnemite
What purpose did her dancing serve? If she was alone, was it a warding of some kind? Did it mentally prepare her for vital tasks?
Sau
...Maybe you don’t need a reason to dance, you know?

The Mawile slowly lowers both its arms and its rear jaw together in a prayer-like motion, bowing its head for a mere moment, before turning around and clamoring down the back side of the pillar.

Magnemite
An interesting but zero-sum conclusion. I will posit this for further analysis later.
Sau
You really shouldn’t bother.

  • Log Name: "Aerial Drop Pods"
  • Rarity: 10% upon event trigger
  • DP Rewarded: 200 for first encounter, 50 afterward

Magnemite
It doesn't make sense...
Sau
What doesn't?
Magnemite
Dreepy are an omnivorous breed, but they rarely consume anything larger than they are. Their most common diet is rodents and similar vermin. And yet, the Dreepy within the Thirteen Orphans have been spotted eating entire alligators.
Sau
There's alligators here!?
Magnemite
It defies all reason. Why would their predatory habits change in this specific habitat? I have been closely observing any we come across, and I have not found any hints to explain this strange phenomenon.
Sau
Maybe it's not the Dreepy you should be looking at.
Magnemite
What do you mean?

Sau points upward. Above them, in the distance, a Drifloon hovers by.

Magnemite
I fail to see your point.
Sau
Look closer.

Magnemite's eye focuses, then ignites with a buzz of shock as he sees it - a Dreepy, clinging to the Drifloon's legs. It hangs upside-down, its head scouring the land below.

Sau
That's pretty cool.

The Dreepy snaps to a target, and stays focused on it for several seconds as it floats overhead. Then, to the disgruntlement of the Drifloon, it lets go of its aerial escort, nosediving towards a target on the ground. Within seconds, it collides with its target in a loud crunch of bone and flesh that makes Sau recoil.

Magnemite
Incredible.
Sau
I'm... really glad I can't see into that brush.

From behind the cover of brush and trees, the Dreepy emits a high-pitched, trilling warble. From the bushes around Sau and Magnemite, several other Dreepy emerge, marching right past the duo towards their quarry.

Magnemite
We must follow them!
Sau
We must not. I'd like to keep my lunch down, thank you.

  • Log Name: "The Festival"
  • Trigger: See "What's That Smell?" five times and all other events at least once.
  • DP Rewarded: 500 (cannot be repeated)

Magnemite
The smell is becoming particularly noxious.
Sau
...Well, I wouldn’t have noticed anything until you said something, so, thanks, I guess.
Magnemite
Do you see that? A great deal of movement, through the clearing.
Sau
Now that you mention it, there aren’t a lot of Pokemon nearby…
Magnemite
Science!
Sau
Hey, wait--!

The two charge through the clearing, then stop in their tracks. A veritable horde of Pokemon, primarily Drifloons and the rare Drifblim, cluster around a swampy pond, actively bubbling. Flanking many of them are Mawiles, Dewpiders, Dreepy, and others, totaling almost a hundred. Sau recoils, covering his face with a sleeve.

Sau
Oh, gods, that smell…
Magnemite
Look!

The murky waters recede, then erupt upward in a hemispheric burp of gas. As if on cue, a wave of Drifloons charge towards the swamp, the updraft launching them into the sky, many Dewpiders Dreepys, and even some small Girafarigs in tow. A pair of Drifblim hoist a particularly adventurous Mawile high into the air, over the treetops. The remaining Pokemon on the ground cry out in reverie as they launch skyward, the hordes of Drifloons and their cargo creating a purple wave over the wilds. Sau watches, breathless - literally and figuratively.

Sau
I can’t believe I’m seeing this…

The swamp gurgles, as if upset that no one is paying attention to it, and in response the Pokemon form another cluster around the edge. From distant trees and shrubs, more Drifloon emerge to fill any gaps around the group.

Sau
Well, you wanted data, Magnemite, this should more than- huh?

Sau looks to see an empty space where his electronic partner previously floated next to him. The swamp swells threateningly, and through the masses of Pokemon, Sau catches a glint of metal.

Sau
Oh no…

The swamp bursts once more, and another wave of dozens of Drifloons with dozens of passengers launch skyward - one sporting a particularly shiny metal sheen.

Sau
Magnemite!

Sau sprints forward, swimming through waves of Pokemon, much to their disgruntlement, and emerges out the other side of the path, running adjacent to the swamp, then leaps onto a clear path, following the wave overhead. He looks up when he can, quickly losing sight of his Magnemite amidst the cluster of skyward Drifloons.

Sau
Damnit…

After what seems to Sau like miles, the wave starts splitting up and descending. In the golden light of the setting sun, Magnemite stands out like a spotlight as it pulls a particularly displeased pair of Drifloons down to the ground a bit faster than they might like. As soon as Sau sees Magnemite’s landing path before him, he drops to his hands and knees, gasping for breath, then drops to his elbows.

Magnemite
That was… sublime.
Sau
That was fucking tiring.
Magnemite
This unit is likely one of the only electric-type Pokemon that has seen the world from such a height. I had never thought to gain such perspective, physically and metaphorically speaking.
Sau
Don’t… do it… again…
Magnemite
I must find Hanji and inquire about gaining flight capacities. Surely it is not beyond her mechanical capability to install such a module.
Sau
I will kill her in cold blood if she does.
Magnemite
I do not understand your protests.
Sau
Maybe… if you had just ran… halfway across the Thirteen Orphans… you might understand…
Magnemite
Surely you cannot deny that there was immense beauty in that, that… festival, if you will.
Sau
You’re not wrong, but… that was incredibly dangerous. You could have died.
Magnemite
Unlikely. And even if so, the module Dr. Duncen installed could be retrieved and the memories retained.
Sau
...Just what kind of monstrosity did that doctor turn you into!?
Magnemite
One who is finally acquiring a true understanding of the world.
Sau

Sau looks back from whence they came. Far in the distance, another cluster of Drifloons launch into the sky, a swarm of specks on the horizon.

Sau
I would be lying if I said I didn’t want to try it, though…

Fusaide Fields[]

A fertile expanse of floodplains south of MooMoo Farm on the way to Olivine City. In the morning, the main path is frequented by farmers looking to sell their product in the port town. This trip (and the evening return) used to result in very crowded dust trails and frequent disturbances with wild Pokemon. Engineers have since created arches of raised earth, supported by metal beams to serve as "highways" for wild Pokemon to cross above the domestic road. As this road approaches Olivine, it splits into several paths as it crosses a system of river deltas. A system of dams allows travelers to cross to the other side, and can be opened and closed to mitigate seasonal flooding as necessary. In times of drought, when all the dams are closed to reserve as much water as possible, the riverbeds beyond them are reduced to shallows often easily fordable by farmers and their livestock. During this time, all kinds of treasures can be found on the riverbeds - elemental stones, shards, and even the magnificent Fossil from time to time.

Sentret's Sentinel[]

Ecruteak City[]

Venerated cultural hub of the Johto region. Its peaked rows of wooden houses are watched over a twin set of multi-tiered structures. The centuries-old Tin Tower, said to be the immemorial roost of Ho-oh, is still maintained by Ecruteak elders. Its counterpart, once the nest of Lugia, was once known as the Brass Tower before a bolt of lightning burned it down. Tradition states that after a sudden rain extinguished the fires, Ho-oh intervened on behalf of three Pokemon who perished in the blaze. These reincarnated Pokemon became known as the Legendary Beasts. Rarely, glimpses of the three - Raikou, Entei, Suicune - could be seen around the tower's ruins. Out of respect, the residents of Ecruteak left the building's remains, known as the Burned Tower, as a shrine to these Pokemon.

After 150 years, some sort of intervention caused these beasts to awaken and flee Ecruteak. They still roam Johto to this day, but are even more elusive than when they resided in the Burned Tower. Though many citizens wished to leave the site in its state as a monument, others decided now was the time to restore it to its former glory. With financial assistance from the Consortium, the newly named Steel Tower was constructed to rival the Tin. Built to replicate the dimension of what the Brass Tower once was, the Steel Tower nonetheless has a sheen of modernity and "correctness" that does not quite give it the aura of its neighbor. Despite this, many cultural events, meetings, and conferences are held there - all with the express endorsement (and endorsing of) the Consortium.

Regional Variant: Johtic Forms[]

Regional variants of Pokemon have been an increasing trend seen in various areas due to the increasing intermingling of trainers across the myriad continents and nations of the world, as natural ecosystems and Pokemon habitats exert their influence on invasive species. The formerly isolated region of Johto has, in recent years, been subject to both an influx of increasingly worldly Trainers from far-off lands and an increase in environmental testing by Pokemon-centric corporations such as the Consortium and Team Rocket. Thus have Johtic Forms emerged.

  • Type: Poison/Dark
  • Biology: Johtic Ekans has pale light-olive skin that looks like sickly human flesh. Its eyes are giant black orbs, enlarged significantly, and tufts of black hair have begun to sprout from its head. Johtic Arbok has fully pale skin riddled with cuts and bruises, with a huge teardrop of long black humanoid hair in place of a mantle. Its hiss is much higher-pitched, reminiscent of gargled screaming.
  • Distribution: Johtic Ekans - Bellchime Trail (uncommon), Bell Tower (rare); Johtic Arbok - Bellchime Trail (very rare)
  • Pokedex Entry: Thought to be restless spirits of the drowned, it is unknown exactly how these Pokemon changed so drastically from their closely neighboring habitat of Kanto. They are mostly found around the Bellchime Trail, and are said to ruthlessly attack Trainers who have inflicted violence and abuse in their past.

  • Type: Fairy/Psychic
  • Biology: Identical physically to its original form, but dressed in the traditional mask and flowing, intricate kimonos of Noh actors. Several variants of mask and kimono color exist, as the Jynxes craft them themselves.
  • Distribution: Johtic Jynx - Ice Path (uncommon)
  • Pokedex Entry: Thought to be the product of a stolen caravan of theatrical garb, the already erratic Jynx of the region immediately incorporated the garb into their strange practices and mating rituals, and captured Jynxes who wear the garb absolutely insist on donning it at all times, becoming infuriated if the Trainer tries to remove it.

  • Type: Normal (Porygon), Normal/Steel (Porygon2, Porygon-MAX)
  • Biology: Johtic Porygon is largely similar to original Porygon, but colored in the white and silver of the Consortium, along with blocky plated shoulder spikes. Johtic Porygon2 sees the shoulder bayonets evolve into cannons, enabling it access to projectile attacks. While unable to evolve to Porygon-Z, if a Porygon2 levels up while holding a Consortium Database Key (obtained from the Whirl Islands facility), it evolves into Porygon-MAX, foregoing the smoothness of Porygon-Z in favor of a sharper, spinier look with four circular hoverpads for propulsion and three golden gunpods hovering erratically around it.
  • Distribution: Johtic Porygon - Obtained from a PC in the Steel Tower.
  • Pokedex Entry: An artificial, prototypical Pokemon designed to be mass-produced for military purposes by the Consortium for the Advancement of Pokemon, there is some debate in the scientific community as to whether or not this creature actually can be classified as a Pokemon.

  • Type: Fairy/Dark
  • Biology: Light pink with big round opals for eyes and a broad, wing-like cape that it wraps itself in to perform tricks of glamour and mischief. When fully wrapped in the cape, it can go invisible for brief periods of time.
  • Distribution: Johtic Sableye - Ruins of Alph (very rare), Hex Forest (rare)
  • Pokedex Entry: Similar to the invasive Ekans allegedly taking on the spiritual wrath of its habitat, Poke-biologists are equally confounded by the development of Sableye allegedly taking on characteristics of mythical fey spirits that were said to inhabit the Hex Forest ages ago. Using tricks of ghost and fairy powers, these modern fey are said to be responsible for the recent influx of reports of gaping chasms, gigantic dragons, living moons, and other inexplicable (and unproven) phenomena in the Hex Forest.

  • Type: Rock/Dragon
  • Biology: Swirls of clay-like deep gray trace over both Johtic Vibrava and Flygon's hide, as well as white rings around white eyes, and gargantuan burrower claws. Johtic Flygon, additionally, is surrounded by an aura of rocks that it manipulates via a form of weak telekinesis to block attacks.
  • Distribution: Johtic Vibrava - Dragon's Den (uncommon), Route 45 (rare), Route 46 (rare); Johtic Flygon - Route 45 (very rare)
  • Pokedex Entry: Said to be the draconic "spirit of the mountains" that maintain the rocky barrier between Kanto and Johto. Their descendance from the mountains in modern days is said by many to be an omen, though Poke-biologists prefer to justify it with the fact that the Trapinch series has only been introduced to the region in recent years, and have developed a fascination with the mountains, as there are so few in their native habitat.

  • Type: Water/Ground
  • Biology: All three demonstrate leathery gray-brown skin akin to sea lions. Walrein foregoes its majestic mane in favor of even more layers of blubberous fat around its jowels, and trades giant fangs for even larger whiskers that take up most of its face.
  • Distribution: Johtic Spheal - Route 40 (uncommon), Route 41 (uncommon), Safari Zone (rare); Johtic Sealeo - Route 40 (rare), Route 41 (rare), Safari Zone (rare), Thirteen Orphans (very rare); Johtic Walrein - Safari Zone (very rare)
  • Pokedex Entry: The Spheal line has adapted surprisingly well to the more temperate climes of Johto, undergoing a biological transformation that lets it take further advantage of its amphibious nature. While cute and very intelligent, Sealeos and Walrein can be very aggressive, and have led to several injuries resulting from Trainers getting too playful with their Pokemon.

  • Type: Fighting/Ground
  • Biology: Both don a white training Gi, wrapped knuckles, and a headband - Lucario's headband displays a symbol, though its meaning is unknown. Thirteen different symbols have been seen thus far. Johtic Riolu wears a purple belt, while Johtic Lucario wears a black belt.
  • Distribution: Johtic Riolu - Route 32 (very rare), Route 37 (very rare), Route 38 (very rare), Route 42 (very rare), Route 47 (rare), Sentret's Sentinel (rare)
  • Pokedex Entry: The ever-adaptive Lucario has taken up the native fighting styles of Johto, turning its energy-manipulation techniques internal and focusing on balancing the self in order to unbalance opponents. While not as fast and unpredictable as its native counterpart, the attacks unleashed by Johtic Lucarios can be truly devastating. Riolu and Lucario who visit Johto frequently express a desire to travel to other lands in order to learn more martial styles.

  • Type: Normal/Dragon
  • Biology: SHIBA INU SHIBA INU SHIBA INU A lush, golden patterned coat, characteristic white, proud chest, and curled tail are dominant in all three forms. Herdier and Stoutland forego the majestic beard for puffy cheeks, and Herdier gains several floating orbs of flame, while Stoutland literally hovers off the ground with adorable rage, surrounded by sparkling red and blue fireballs.
  • Distribution: Johtic Lillipup - Route 31 (uncommon), Route 34 (uncommon), Route 35 (common), Route 36 (common)
  • Pokedex Entry: Loved by young Trainers and feared by their parents, the Lillipup line introduced to the Johto region has cross-bred with native Shiba Inus, creating over several generations a regional variant both adorable and terrifying. The development of draconic powers in its later evolutionary stages is suggestive of latent genotypes that have lain dormant and unactivated in Lillipups - or perhaps Shiba Inus - for countless generations.

  • Episodes[]

    Preceding scene: After an encounter with an ambush of Ghosts while transporting farm goods across the Wild Area to Ecruteak City, Sau is able to escape back to MooMoo Farm with the help of random passerby Morty, the former leader of Ecruteak City. Morty gives Sau a Litwick to help with future trips. Somethingsomething NOW IT'S TIME TO GO OUT ON YOUR POKEMON ADVENTURE. Following scene happens at the farmhouse when his parents are making the decision to allow Sau to move on from the farm.

    Mom
    Yesyes, let him go! Powerful Trainers get to demand crazy sums of money from other Trainers they defeat. Maybe Sau can buy us a house back in Alola! Yes, with a swimming pool...
    Dad
    Dear, I've never understood the point of having a pool in a place surrounded by water.
    Mom
    The point is that it's your water and you can swim in it whenever you want.
    Dad
    Okay, but what about the farm? We can't just leave the Miltank here. Well, maybe in the winter, we could hire someone to look after...
    Mom
    Great! We'll be snowbirds. When the very first flake of snow falls - bam! - we're outta here. And we won't come back until April. *beams*
    Dad
    I don't know if we should be thinking this far ahead...

    His wife, who was humming to herself throughout the conversation, moves towards the porch. She stops at the doorway and pauses for a moment.

    Mom
    Something odd is happening in this country. The storms in Olivine and Cianwood aren't normal. I think you know it, too. Wouldn't it be better to move somewhere safer?
    Dad
    I've - we've - spent a lot of time and effort building the farm up where it is. I know Sau wants to do something else with his life, but it's hard thinking of the two of you not here.
    Mom
    Mm, I can understand that. It feels like we've finally accomplished what we set out to do when we left Alola.

    Dad walks over to the porch window. The sun is beginning to set on MooMoo Farm, casting an amber hue over the cheery scarlet walls of its barns and sheds. Eight years ago, there was nothing there besides marshland and swamp. His eyes catch the fading rays of the sun.

    Mom
    It's good to have beautiful dreams. Especially when other people help you achieve them.

    She looks out at the rolling fields of wheat, at the bulbous white-pink masses grazing lazily in the beige ocean.

    Mom
    It's also good to help others with their dreams, wouldn't you think?
    Dad
    ...Yes, I suppose you're right.

    Sau encounters a tattooed man in a unbuttoned lab coat in Ecruteak City.

    David
    You can have any Pokemon you want! As long as it's a bird. Also, as long as it's one of the three birds I currently have to offer.
    Sau
    That's not much of a choice.
    David
    Yep, just like how Pokemon Professors aren't given much of a choice in which starters they get to give out. Grass, Fire, Water - that's it! Speaking of which...

    David calls out three Pokemon. A Rowlet rolls out and flaps its wings endearingly, followed by an easily-distracted Torchic and a Piplup that begins to preen itself for a nonexistent camera.

    Sau
    They really are all birds.
    David
    *winks* You're so quick on the uptake! I can see you have the skills necessary to go all the way to the Pokemon League.
    Sau
    Uh-huh. I choose the Rowlet.
    David
    Eh? So quickly? Most people ruminate a bit first. It's not like I need you to save me from a wild Poochyena or anything.
    Sau
    A Grass type would be helpful for helping with seasoning. And it's the only one that can actually fly.

    Sau picks up the Rowlet and holds it at face level. A manic glint flashes in his eye for a fraction of a second.

    Sau
    And it's... cute.
    David
    Then it's decided! How am I supposed to run a study on the psychological factors that affect starter selection if all you kids give me are purely functional reasons or "It's cute?"
    Sau
    I dunno. I'm not a Professor. And by the way, I don't know about going all the way to the Pokemon League.
    David
    Oh, really? Just setting off on your own for the fun of it? There must be more of a reason...?
    Sau
    I'd like to see more of Johto, for sure. I'm sure there's a lot I don't know about Curry and Poffin making. A lot I don't know about a lot of stuff, probably. I'll figure it out as I go. What matters is that I'm going.

    David flashes a huge grin.

    David
    Interesting, interesting. You're not the regular kine 10 year old kid who sets out with a big dream to be the Champion.
    Sau
    That's because I'm 15.
    David
    Auwe! That's practically geriatric in Champion terms. Maybe it's better you're keeping your reason for doing the Gym Challenge open, then.
    Sau
    I guess. A journey isn't as, um, enjoyable if you already know the exact route you're going.

    Sau smiles in a contentedly gloomy way.

    David
    Haha! Whatever you say. I'm not in Johto to call the shots anyway.
    Sau
    Doesn't the Alola need their Professor back anytime soon...?
    David
    Oh, I'm not the "official" Alolan professor anyway! I just came to visit Johto and really liked it here, so I stayed. Life in Alola was getting too quiet for my tastes.
    Sau
    Uh-huh...
    David
    Well, you seem all set! Feel free to send me a text if you need anything and I'll let my remote assistant handle it. She's a pretty feisty old woman, so make sure your message is respectful. Seeya!

    David waves and saunters off towards the Burned Tower. He stutter-steps and turns back to Sau.

    David
    Oh yeah, I'm supposed to stay on brand. Alola!

    Sau pokes around a mall in the commercial district of Ecruteak. His Magnemite and Litwick are perched on each shoulder, buzzing/bubbling quietly.

    Sau
    Ah. I forgot. Aren't Pokemon professors supposed to give out Pokedexes? To help catalogue and stuff. I get the feeling that wasn't one of Professor David's priorities...?

    His Pokemon only stare at him - one with all the unfathomable calculus of a silent sentient machine, and the other all the power of a grudge stuffed into a small candle.

    ???
    Hey. Psst. You. Over here!

    A shadowy figure beckons from a dimly lit storefront. Sau retreats from it slowly, until it slinks into the light and reveals herself as a thin, blue-haired girl nearly a foot shorter than himself.

    Hanji
    Did I hear you say.... you needed a Pokedex? *eyes Sau's Magnemite with poorly concealed hunger*
    Sau
    Um, yes. Do you give them out? You don't look like a professor. But then again, neither did David except for the lab coat.
    Hanji
    *bitter laugh* Nope! Unfortunately I'm not recognized for my research, as promising as it is. "Rotom dexes are proven concepts!" they said. "We don't need any further innovation!" Pah! You look like a person in desperate need of technological aid to assist him on his Pokemon quest, amirite?"
    Sau
    That sounds about right. Um, but I can probably pick up a Pokedex in Goldenrod...
    Hanji
    Nonsense. I've got a solution for you right here - Hanji-approved!

    Hanji snatches Sau's Magnemite with alacrity and disappears into her shop. Sau calls after her and follows hurriedly into her shop. Thirty minutes later.

    Hanji
    Ok bye! Make sure you ADVERTISE WHAT A WONDERFUL SERVICE I'VE PROVIDED YOU! Tell your friends! Tell your enemies! And if you have any issues, come back and I'll patch him - it? her? - right up!

    She waves a hand ringed by pixelated cerulean light. Sau leaves quickly, and as they turn the corner the Magnemite's eye flashes blue and projects a hologram before it.

    Magnemite
    This unit wishes User: Sau to know that it is not affected by creation bias. It will operate under standard Pokedex protocol as directed by the Pokemon League and conveniently ignore these superfluous programs Hanji has installed for various data collecting purposes. This unit will serve as Pokedex, unwanted tutorial provider, and translator. In the spirit of making oneself useful: the Litwick wishes for you to know that it's been eight hours since you fed him. Translation return: "get us some fucking Berries, you weak-ass mango." Translation end. Advise: Comply with request to avoid title of "weak-ass mango."
    Sau
    Hm. Neat.

    Sau has been gently farming entire crops of Grass-type Pokemon with his Lampent, who seems to be relishing the training.

    Sau
    Hmm. Hopefully Bounsweet evolves soon. There won't be any non-burned Glooms left.

    The aforementioned Bounsweet is rocking back and forth blissfully on the grass, a circlet of flowers and golden wire perched on its head.

    Magnemite
    This unit wishes to inform you that all Pokemon in the party automatically gain a portion of the experience harvested by the lead Pokemon. "EXP Share" is an outdated device. Especially faux ones.
    Sau
    This is a "Special Crown" my mom made. She says it helps Pokemon feel better about themselves and gain more experience. It can't hurt, right? Plus it looks cute.

    The magenta Pokemon coos adorably. As another Gloom flees the field partially ablaze, Bounsweet suddenly straightens up and is consumed by a flashing white light.

    Sau
    Oh! Great. I wonder what it will look like. Maybe like Exeggcute? Mm.... six mangosteens... hmhm... hm...
    Magnemite
    Observation: disturbing. Unfortunately, Bounsweet evolves into Stee-
    Sau
    Hold up, let me see for myself. I like surprises.
    Magnemite
    You like surprises? Very well. This unit assumes no responsibility for your inevitable disappointment.

    A humanoid shape emerges from the formerly rotund ball of light. The newly evolved Steenee flicks an immaculate coif of leaf-hair from its face, tossing the flower crown off. With a flounce, it snatches Magnemite, opens its camera function, and begins making Farfetch'd faces.

    Sau
    What the hell is this?
    Magnemite
    Opinion: Same. Steenee is *PLEASE WAIT 0.75 SECONDS BEFORE TAKING NEXT PICTURE* rapidly abusing this unit's image capture function *WARNING: MEMORY LOW* and has somehow managed *WOULD YOU LIKE TO PAY PokémonDollar250 FOR POKECHAT FILTER: 2ND SACRED HOLY EYE?* to acquire 7,293 social media followers in the span of 10 seconds *TRANSACTION COMPLETE. RECEIPT Y/N?*
    Sau
    Hey - stop that! Tell it to not waste my money! And don't treat my mom's Special Crown like that. *quickly moves to pick up the crown-lei*
    Magnemite
    Steenee response: "Ugh. That thing totally cramped my style. What's up with this outdated phone anyway? I can't influence in these conditions. Does this pale blue Lampent light make my face look naturally moist?"
    Sau
    ...Box it.

    Magnemite shoots a beam of blue light from its eye, converting the Steenee into data and consuming it.

    Sau
    You should have told me it would be like that.
    Magnemite
    Contradiction identified. You stated enjoyment of surprises. Liability denied.
    Sau
    Okay, but if it's going to be that bad, warn me in advance. I'm going to need a replacement fruit Pokemon now.

    If Sau enters the Violet City Gym at night after defeating Seo, he will find that it has been shut other than a light on in the Vet Clinic. Venturing closer, he will see Huang sitting and drinking "Jaboca Berry juice" with Jian, the mysterious woman he met in the Wild Area.

    After defeating Artemis, Sau takes a break and visits the city's port. It's the first time in quite a while that he's stopped to watch the sea. He picks up his phone and dials a familiar number, letting it ring several times.

    Mom's Voicemail
    Hi! You've reached Trini. Sorry I'm unable to answer the phone right now, leave me a message. Alola! *sound of barking in the background* Yampie! Stop dat-

    Sau's mom's voice abruptly stops and is replaced by a calmly robotic female voice asking the caller to leave a message after the beep, followed by a shrill grating sound.

    Sau
    Hi Mom. I got back to Goldenrod City. Three Gym badges, which is pretty cool. I think after the fourth I'll be heading back your way. Um, I'm at the Goldenrod Port now. There are ships to Alola here. Maybe we can visit someday. Or at least, you and dad can come visit someplace like Goldenrod. I think Dad might feel claustrophobic with all the skyscrapers though. Anyway, hopefully talk to you soon. Love you.

    Sau pockets his phone and holds his hand above his eyes, peering into the wind. The Whirl Islands are faint pinnacles to the southwest. Far beyond them, invisible in the distance, lie the Alolan islands. Sau enjoys the coastal breeze for a few minutes and begins to leave, but pauses as a towering ship appears on the horizon due east of the Whirl Islands. It's the perfect excuse to continue to linger at the water's edge. The craft eventually pulls into port, and Sau marvels at the sheer number of people disembarking.

    Sau
    Wow, I've never seen a ship this size, even when I was a kid. It's decked out in all sorts of flowers and banners, too. Hm?

    Among the crowd making its way across the pier is a pair of men donning similarly ornate jackets - one older and bent of stature, the other not yet an adult, though quite tall. The younger one strides ahead with a quick and aloof pace away from the other passengers, and the older man calls out to him.

    Old man
    Your Highness, please slow down. I have yet to regain my earthly footing after such a time at sea.
    Teenager
    Bhikku, don't address me as that here. We need to find somewhere to change clothes. I don't know why you insisted on wearing these.
    Old man
    We must be proper ambassadors for Akosin while we are here, Sonthi. It will not do to sulk about.
    Sonthi
    Wasn't the point of this voyage to have me complete the Johtic Gym Challenge and take notes for our country? I don't plan on doing any 'networking', and I don't want to be recognized.
    Sau
    Do you want a pair of sunglasses? And a hat?

    The pair stare at him incredulously.

    Sau
    Oh, sorry. I suppose you didn't think there would be anyone on this side of the pier. It's kind of a tradition for kids taking the Gym Challenge to wear some sort of a hat. And sunglasses would help conceal who... whoever you are?
    Sonthi
    Kids?! I'm not... er, nevermind. Who are you?
    Sau
    My name is Sau. I'm doing the Gym Challenge too. You don't have to tell me who you are, I guess?
    Old man
    Oh, no, this is wonderful. Let us introduce ourselves and learn more about the region. My name is Somdej, attendant to Prince Sonthi of Akosin.
    Sonthi
    Why did you - *cough* Bhikku, why did just casually mention that?
    Somdej
    Why not? Sau has already expressed a desire to aid in your self-erasure, Your Highness. I must conduct official duties in Violet City, and so cannot remain anonymous. However, should you don such a disguise, you are unlikely to be recognized even by those familiar with our country.
    Sau
    I wouldn't phrase it as self-erasure, but ok? Here's a pair of sunglasses. You could buy a hat at the department store in Goldenrod.
    Sonthi
    You just carry sunglasses around?
    Sau
    I think they look cool, but I never get around to wearing them, I suppose.
    Sonthi
    I see. Bhikku, you really think this is the correct way to go about this?
    Somdej
    If darkening your eyes will clear your mind, then I have no objections. Once we pass Violet City, I will leave you to your adventure alone, as is customary for this region. It would be a good idea for you to be in contact with someone undergoing the same trial as you. Yes?

    Somdej eyes Sonthi's phone with the overbearing cheerfulness of a grandfather unfamiliar with technology.

    Sonthi
    *sighs* Here's my phone number, Sau. How far are you along the Gym Challenge?
    Sau
    Just finished the third Gym. You'll visit Violet and then Azalea, but there's some sort of vacancy going on in Azalea, so hopefully you'll be able to get a badge there.
    Somdej
    Excellent. Sonthi will call you if he needs a friend for advice. Thank you, Sau.

    Sonthi puts the pair of sunglasses on and sighs more softly than before.

    Sau
    Looks good.
    Sonthi
    Yes, well, anyway, we should be going, if you have this official business, Bhikku...
    Somdej
    Shall we visit the department store first for a hat? Perhaps I will purchase one myself, to hide all this hair.
    Somdej bows slightly, and Sonthi offers a curt wave. The old man's bald head sparkles like a second sun in the noontime light as they depart.

    After defeating Seungchul and accepting his request, Sau leaves Waning Moon for the Olivine Lighthouse. The darkened tower stands alone on a narrow peninsula jutting out into the sea. Though the path that leads to it is lit by the occasional lamppost, there is an eerie feeling in the air that Sau feels would not be present otherwise. As he approaches the lighthouse, a few townspeople pass him heading in the opposite direction, grumbling to themselves.

    Miffed Man
    What the hell is going on? How are any ships going to get into - or leave - port? I oughta just go in there and turn it on myself.
    Irked Woman
    Well, you can't, dear, because the door's locked. It's automatic, you know? Runs on fancy technology. I doubt you'd be able to work it even if you could climb all the way up.
    Miffed Man
    Hghhhk... well, we can at least go to the keeper's place and give him an earful.
    Irked Woman
    I'm sure there are already plenty of people already doing that, dear...

    Sau says nothing as he continues past them to the lighthouse entrance. The ground is paved with an intricate stone pattern that wraps around the building's base. A few pavillions, benches, and flowerpots are dotted across the open space. Sau takes out a card key that Seungchul gave him after the Gym battle.

    Sau
    This must be a nice place when it's well-lit... looks like everyone has been spooked away. Well, I don't know what the waffle cook expects me to do, but perhaps I can figure out what's going on.

    Sau holds the card key up to a panel next to the lighthouse door. Its LED blares a baleful amber color. No confirmational unlocking sound is heard.

    Sau
    Eh? Maybe this way...? Or to the door itself?

    Sau tries several alignments of the card. The door does not yield.

    Sau
    Maybe I should have gotten Seungchul's phone number. Oh! I know. He said he would be in Olivine about this time too...

    Sau dials a phone number while continuing to present the ID repeatedly to the obstinate card reader.

    Sonthi
    Sau? You're calling me pretty late.
    Sau
    Sorry Sonthi, but could you help me? I remember that you're pretty good with tech, and maybe you could help me get into the Olivine lighthouse?
    Sonthi
    The lighthouse? Doesn't the Gym Leader operate that? Why would you ask me to break in??
    Sau
    The Gym Leader asked me to check it out, but the card key he gave me isn't letting me in. Er, you knew the lighthouse isn't working, right...?
    Sonthi
    Oh, uh, of course I did. Well, if the Gym Leader himself asked you, I guess it's ok. I'm at the Olivine Nautical Museum now, but I can be there shortly.
    Sau
    Thanks! Everything is operated electronically, so maybe you could actually fix it as well.

    There is a silence over the phone. When Sonthi speaks again, only a trace of smugness seeps into his voice.

    Sonthi
    Well, I can definitely take a look at it. I'll be right there.

    Sau hangs up, offers a few more solid attempts at the card reader, then shuffles off to a nearby bench.

    Sau
    Sometimes it works the 20th time. I'll just wait for Sonthi. Or...?

    Seated on one of the benches overlooking the ocean is a woman Sau did not notice before. The fire in her hair, illuminated by a solitary lampost, is framed against the horizon like a setting sun. Something reminds him of the feeling he experienced at Goldenrod Port. He chooses not to interrupt her reverie. After a few minutes, she stands - gracefully, but suddenly, as if arriving at a decision. At this point Sau notices she is using an ornate, ivory cane to trace the path in front of her, despite her relative youth. The cane taps with only the faintest of sound against the stone, and her purple dress billows like a wave in the wind. He does expect her to address him as she approaches, for her eyes are closed, and he understands. To his surprise, as she draws level with the lighthouse door, her eyes and mouth open.

    ???
    You have been waiting for quite some time.
    Sau
    Y-yes, I have. For someone to help turn the lighthouse back on. Is that why you were waiting as well?
    ???
    What about it needs to be fixed?
    Sau
    All of it. The beacon isn't working.
    ???
    The structure is sound, then. It's simply the beacon that requires replacement.
    Sau
    I guess you can put it that way. What's a lighthouse if it doesn't have a light, though?
    ???
    A fair assessment. Are you aware that a Pokemon once provided the source of the signal?
    Sau
    I think so - I actually moved to Johto from Alola when the transition was being made. Our ship was one of the last ones to arrive when the Ampharos was still here.
    ???
    There were many who believed that Pokemon was the heart and soul of the structure. When it departed, that image of the "Olivine Lighthouse" died as well.
    Sau
    Are you one of those people?
    ???
    How astute of you. Though perhaps my nostalgia is affected as much by the present as it is the past.

    Sau doesn’t know how to respond to this for a second. The woman’s eyes remain fixated at some point just beyond him.

    Sau
    Were you thinking about the past when you were looking at the ocean?

    She smiles, almost indulgently, and shifts her cane as if to move again.

    ???
    We see what we wish to see. The ocean is simply a good medium to do so. Wouldn’t you agree?
    Sau
    Yeah, I think so too.

    Her smile lingers as she steps forward in earnest, towards Olivine’s downtown. It seems that every house in the city has turned its lights on to the maximum to replace the lighthouse’s beacon.

    ???
    Especially on quiet nights like these. Though if the signal is broken, I am surprised there are not more people here attempting to repair it.
    Sau
    Ah... well, hopefully my friend can help with that. It might even be a simple fix.
    ???
    Simple? I suppose for some people, computers are simpler than Pokemon.
    Sau
    Well, there are some Pokemon that are computer-like. I think people can be good at working with both.

    The woman pauses to consider this for a moment. When she speaks, her voice is neither dismissive nor approving.

    ???
    I hope the person you are waiting for arrives. Take care.

    Not long after she departs, Sonthi briskly walks up to Sau and launches into business. He still sports the hat and sunglasses; a pin depicting an intricate florescence of evolutionary stones is attached to the hat.

    Sonthi
    I assume you've tried the door?
    Sau
    I've tried this entry card, but nothing happens. Here.
    Sonthi
    Hmmmm.

    Sonthi inspects the door sensor briefly before flipping open a panel to reveal a keyboard. With the card clapsed between two fingers, his hands fly spider-like over the keyboard, pausing fractionally to consider rejections. At one point he attacks the keyboard with a mildly increased pace, flicking the card out of his hand. Sau rushes to retrieve it unceremoniously from the ground.

    Sau
    I guess you don't need this?

    Sonthi does not respond; the only sound is the rhythmic depression of keys. Soon the sensor's light flickers deep green and beeps affirmatively. Sonthi nods at the door handle in answer.

    Sau
    Nice. I wonder why the card wouldn't work?
    Sonthi
    A question for the Gym Leader. Though I suppose if he had to outsource this task to you, I wonder how much he actually knows of how the Lighthouse works.
    Sau
    Anyway, if you could get us in, I'm sure you can work your computer magic on the beacon itself.
    Sonthi
    It's not magic, it's hacking. That access override wasn't too difficult - the firewall had some cloaking loopholes I could exploit, and if that didn't work, there was always a backdoor that would have been easily decrypted...
    Sau
    Okay, great!

    Sau opens the door and beckons Sonthi inside. The taller boy purses his lips and follows. There is a muted, almost underwhelming feeling as they enter the building's drab first floor. Two featureless steel panels wait at the back - an elevator. Sau taps the up button, which fails to light up. Sonthi huffs imperiously and immediately sets to hacking the elevator.

    Sau
    Why don't we just take the stairs?

    He points at a darkened flight of stone steps across the room. Sonthi looks up from the panel with an initial look of disbelief, then appears to consider Sau's suggestion.

    Sonthi
    Oh, right.
    Sau
    I just don't want to get stuck in an elevator. Not that I don't trust what you're doing, it's just, maybe it would break again at the top, or something.
    Sonthi
    You don't need to explain yourself. If there are stairs, it's easier to take them.

    The stairs are swathed in total darkness as soon as they leave the first floor behind. Sau lets his Lampent out of its Pokeball; its eerie light casts sunsets at curvatures along the walls. It seems to be enjoying the spookiness of the situation.

    Sonthi
    This makes me wonder why they didn't continue to use an Ampharos. Or a Chandelure, for that matter.
    Sau
    A life confined to this room might be considered not much of a life.
    Sonthi
    A life dedicated to lighting the ocean for others would be an admirable life indeed.
    Sau
    Huh...
    Sonthi
    You disagree?
    Sau
    Mm, not exactly. Someone I met recently had their own thoughts on the subject as well.
    Sonthi
    And?
    Sau
    I don't think there's an easy answer. But maybe we should see if we can get the light back on, since that's what matters in the end.

    Lampent's flame scatters, diluted, across the glass dome at the apex of the lighthouse. The hollow prism at the room's center is connected by only a few wires to a single desktop computer, sheltered behind a tent-like arrangement of opaque black cloth.

    Sau
    This is it? Should be easy, then!
    Sonthi
    It's what's inside the computer that matters, Sau.
    Sau
    Oh, right...

    Sau stands awkwardly to the side as Sonthi seats himself at the desktop. As the prince boots up the computer, he takes off his straw hat and looks at it for a short while.

    Sonthi
    Sau, could you please check the beacon's frame and the wires for anything out of place? It would help to know if any of the hardware was damaged while I look at the software.
    Sau
    Yup, I can definitely do that.

    Sonthi flits through windows and screens on the computer, inputting commands and receiving rejections. Sau occasionally peeks over his shoulder to find perennially confusing visuals. After his fourth sweep of the cupola, he returns to find Sonthi in a gradually elevating state of frustration.

    Sonthi
    *muttering* Why don't they just have remote access from the Waffle House or whatever it is? Did a fry cook self-introduce malware, or...?
    Sau
    Sonthi, I don't understand half of what you're saying, but maybe you should take a break? The view is really impressive from up here.
    Sonthi
    Yes, yes, I can see it after I fix this. Nothing's wrong with the physical beacon itself?
    Sau
    Nothing that I can tell. No broken parts. Everything looks connected. Just empty.
    Sonthi
    *restrained sigh* Okay. Thanks. I'm just going to keep working on this.

    Sau can tell that Sonthi is taking longer and longer breaks between each flurry of keystrokes. During one prolonged pause, the two can hear voices coming up the stairs - one of which is familiar to Sau.

    Seungchul
    I appreciate you getting here so quickly. How was your flight across the ocean?
    ???
    Wet. Skarmory are efficient, not comfortable.
    Seungchul
    You should try enjoying something before you die, Haruka. You might end up liking it.
    ???
    If you say so.

    A growing pool of light washes up the stairs, and three figures step into it: Seungchul's Morkpedo, electricity crackling from its cheeks, the Gym Leader, and a dark-haired woman in a deep blue raincoat. Screening her eyes is a translucent pair of lavender glasses. A light embedded in the corner of its frame emits a narrow beam of the same color. When they reach the top floor, Seungchul waves and grins, and the woman switches off her light a moment before its beam strikes Sau in the face.

    Seungchul
    Sau! Looks like you made it up here just fine. And you brought someone to help?
    Sau
    This is Sonthi - he was able to get us in, and he's in the process of fixing the light right now.

    Sonthi cranes his neck out from under the cocoon of black cloth. Sau reflects again on how the straw hat might not exactly make the best first impression. The prince lowers his sunglasses slightly to get a better view of the newcomers; Seungchul's Morkpedo makes a devilishly innocent face at him.

    Sonthi
    O-oh, hello. Please, don't mind me.
    Seungchul
    Heh, kind of late for that. I've got a pro with me too - this is Haruka. She, uh... managed the Lighthouse before me.
    Haruka
    I designed this system, yes. I didn’t expect an Akosin prince to be drafted for technical support.
    Sonthi
    !! How did you -
    Haruka
    Your country interests me. And you are the only significant person that goes by 'Sonthi'.
    Sonthi
    You're familiar with Akosin? And a systems designer? I wonder if she would consider an advisory position...
    Haruka
    It's part of my job description. As is finding out what the problem is with this lighthouse. It seems you’ve already started.
    Sonthi
    Yes, I’ve tried to run some general diagnostics, but I can’t find anything obviously faulty.
    Sau
    I don’t see anything wrong with the wires and lights themselves, either. Unless you’d like to have a look, Haruka and Seungchul?

    They both approach the beacon’s casing, but the difference in their demeanor is noticeable. Seungchul casually beckons his Morkpedo over and seems to inspect the area at a rapid pace, without any particular aim. Haruka, meanwhile, moves at measured intervals, her eyes slowly scanning back and forth from behind their glass walls. As she is clad mostly in black, her form seems to partially disappear as Seungchul’s Morkpedo moves away from her. At times only the translucent aquamarine of her visor and jacket are visible, the rest of her body a shadowy, unknown mass. Sau does not say anything as the two round the chamber - it feels like it would be inappropriate. The only sounds are Sonthi’s quiet, almost reverent strikes against the keyboard. When Haruka finally speaks, it is as if she is very far away.

    Haruka
    This should not be here.
    Seungchul
    Oh?

    The Morkpedo waddles over to Haruka’s position, on the side of the beacon facing the sea. Sau shuffles over quietly to the two adults and the electric rodent to see Haruka regarding a small box bolted just under the beacon's LED.

    Sau
    Oh, I thought that were just part of the device. Like... a battery holder? Or something?
    Haruka
    Understandable. Someone unfamiliar with the hardware would not have recognized it as alien.
    Seungchul
    You'd need a hell of a lot bigger battery than that to power this thing, anyway.
    Haruka
    I recall a similar state of ignorance when I first introduced you to the Lighthouse, Chul.

    Seungchul rubs the back of his neck. His Morkpedo utters a crackling chuckle and focuses the light on the nondescript box. Haruka throws (or rather, lets drop) her own Pokeball, revealing a Porygon-Z. Its fishcake-like eyes snap over to Sau, as if registering him, before levitating over to the offending item. Haruka does not appear to need to verbalize anything for her companion to know what to do. Oddly, while performing its analysis, the duck-like Pokemon's head remains completely still. Its detached body and baguette-shaped limbs, meanwhile, twitch and spin erratically, as if allergic to some unseen signal emanating from its targets. When those, too, quiet, Haruka takes a step forward and flips open the the box's cover.

    Seungchul
    Good sign, it hasn't blown up yet.
    Sau
    She'd tell us if it were... right?
    Seungchul
    Maybe.

    Sau blanches, but is reassured when Seungchul winks and offers the shade of a smile. Haruka has already closed the box, her Porygon-Z having extracted an array of mechanical parts now magnetically suspended in midair.

    Seungchul
    So boss, do you actually need us for anything, or...?
    Haruka
    Yes. Since you live here, I need to know where these hard drives and circuit boards may have come from. Ask around. I'll manage the data if you can do some tangible forensics. Though I already have a hunch as to their origin...

    She briefly glances at Sau, in a manner more discreet but not unlike her Porygon-Z.

    Haruka
    I'll speak with you later about that. The Akosin prince can help me with the rest here.

    Porygon-Z tosses most of the parts into Seungchul's hands. Haruka gives them a curt nod and walks briskly over to confer with Sonthi.

    Sau
    I guess she didn't have anything for me to do?
    Seungchul
    [/pats Sau on the shoulder] Trust me, that's a good thing. You should continue on your Gym Challenge - you've already done more than enough to help us.

    They head for the exit. Haruka and Sonthi are immersed in a complicated discussion, and by the time Sau reaches the stairs, the ceiling lights have been restored. Morkpedo hops back into its Pokeball, which Seungchul pockets. In the fuller light, Sau notices the deep bags underneath the Gym Leader's eyes - he looks very, very tired.

    Seungchul
    My sisters and brothers enjoyed meeting you. Hit us up again, if you're ever back in Olivine. There's a lot more to do than eat waffles and fix lighthouses.
    Sau
    I'm sure there is! Good luck with everything. I would say don't keep Sonthi long, but he actually looks like he's enjoying... whatever it is he's doing?
    Seungchul
    Heh. Better him than me.

    Having visited his parents at MooMoo Farms on his return trip from Olivine City, Sau is crossing the river deltas of Fusaide Fields when he spots a weathered-looking building nestled at the junction of several streams. Feeling like he could use a rest, Sau heads towards it, crossing several crop paddies that have seen better days. Several listing farming implements, laden with rust, lie submerged in mud and marsh. Occasionally, a Lotad or Wooper peeks out. When Sau arrives at the hut, he finds it is almost entirely hollowed out. Moss and ivy tangle across the floor and walls, suggesting a long period of abandonment. Through a gaping hole in the structure’s foundation, Sau spies a familiar silhouette crouching in the shallows of a steam.

    Sau
    Hello… 8?

    The hooded man glances up from the river’s surface. His hands clutch a large, ridged pan, which he continues to sift through the water even as he turns his attention to Sau.

    8
    Remind me of your name?
    Sau
    It’s Sau. From the Azalea Gym.
    8
    Right. I recognized the hat, at least. We managed to run into each other again.
    Sau
    I thought I would take a break here, but this building isn’t as welcoming as I thought it would be. Looks like you’re not here to rest, though?
    8
    Nope. Panning.
    Sau
    Panning?

    8 tilts the instrument back and forth against one of his gloved palms. The sediment inside curves and differentiates with each strike. Suddenly, with a flick of his fingers, he sends a particle from one side of the pan flying through the air into Sau’s hastily outstretched hand. A smooth black pebble. Another flick from the other side, and another particle - this one shaped like a pineapple tidbit, with a soft glow.

    8
    Panning. Removing impurities. Deficiencies.
    Sau
    Woah, nice!
    8
    It’s just a Yellow Shard. Fairly common around here.
    Sau
    I thought you had to go into the Underground to get those.
    8
    Not necessarily. And the Underground is… noisy. Too many people running around. Addicted.
    Sau
    Is that why you prefer the quiet of this place?

    The League employee executes a swift motion with the pan, sifting deeper into the water before retracting the tool and shaking it back and forth in a steady rhythm. Despite the bite of the technique, it makes relatively little sound.

    8
    You’re very interested in the motives of other people, aren't you?
    Sau
    Oh. I guess...

    He notices the hacking sounds that passes for 8’s laugh.

    8
    Heh. You seem like someone who prefers this kind of place as well.
    Sau
    Hmm, the quiet yes, but I grew up on a farm. Even though this place is empty, it has kind of the same feel?
    8
    Of seclusion?
    Sau
    Yeah, that sounds right. We have a lot of animals but we’re off the beaten track. It’s 120 acres. Easy to get lost in.
    8
    To run an operation like that with only three people is... impressive. Most family-owned farms tend to have more of a family behind them.
    Sau
    Yeah, and I guess it’s just my dad and mom now that I’m on this journey.

    8 does not comment on what is unsaid, nor does he offer to change the subject. He merely continues to sift through the black sand.

    Sau
    Do you have any siblings?
    8
    I don’t, unfortunately.

    At this, 8 makes a small sound - almost hesitant, seemingly contradicting what he just said. He resumes panning. Sau is unsure of what to say for the next ten seconds or so, until 8 coughs irritably.

    8
    ...Sit, will you? I assume you’ve traveled a fairly long distance, or you wouldn’t linger.

    Sau takes a seat on a cushion of wild grass. A Grubbin inches away from his outstretched sandal, disappearing into the overgrowth.

    Sau
    Pretty far. I have six Gym Badges now. But you’ve come all the way from Azalea Town, right? How is the Gym?
    8
    Permanently closed.
    Sau
    Oh. No replacement Leader?
    8
    No takers. The plan is to open a new one in Cherrygrove.
    Sau
    That’s kind of sad.
    8
    Because?
    Sau
    Well, I mentioned it when we battled, but I could tell that Gym used to be important to Bugsy, and probably a lot of other people that saw it as a source of pride.
    8
    Before they all emigrated or tangled themselves up in contraband.
    Sau
    ...
    8
    Some places have a strong meaning only to certain people. And when those people move on, that meaning is extinguished.
    Sau
    I suppose I can't argue with that. I'm sitting in front of an example right now.

    The bandages covering 8's lower face crinkle slightly, then relax.

    8
    You'll find many more, the longer you live. Ah.

    The last syllable approximates surprise. Carefully, the erstwhile Gym Leader plucks an oblong, turquoise stone from his pan. In its center is etched the impact crater of a frozen teardrop.

    Sau
    Wow, nice find!
    8
    That wasn’t panning so much as scooping up a Water Stone by sheer luck.

    8 considers his catch for a moment, then places his hand to his chest. The same holographic program that retrieved Pokemon for the Azalea Gym battle pops up. 8 makes a single selection, dismisses the program, and tosses a Pokeball into the riverbed. An aquatic Pokemon with a glowing red core spins out.

    Staryu
    Hyaah!
    8
    Hiya.
    Sau
    That was an unexpected response. Oh, this Staryu...

    Immediately, Sau notices something different about this Pokemon - one of its arms is missing, ending in a severely truncated, almost jagged stub. 8 does not appear to register any surprise - he has already approached the Staryu and extended the Water Stone. A sunsplash of blinding white light, and...

    Starmie
    Huu!
    8
    Who?
    Sau
    ????????

    As a Starmie consists of two overlapping Staryu-shaped pieces, they usually sport ten arms. 8’s, however, has retained its previous defect: each base is missing an appendage. 8 glances at Sau, who does his best to remain expressionless.

    8
    You understand, hm? Most Staryu or Starmie can easily regenerate their limbs. This one, for some reason...
    Sau
    Can’t?
    8
    I suppose it’s as simple as that.

    For a moment, Sau wonders what 8 will do with the Starmie. It rotates quietly in midair, seemingly at peace with its owner’s cold analysis. Like the coming and going of the ride, its core shifts placidly between every color of the rainbow.

    8
    The day wasn’t a waste.

    The robed man sloshes out of the water, and Sau can see that he is wearing lemon yellow wading boots. It is an amusing sight, though Sau takes care not to laugh outwardly as the Gym Leader passes him and withdraws a previously concealed lacquered basket from beneath a shrub.

    Sau
    All done, then?
    8
    It’s getting late.

    8 opens the flap of the basket to deposit the contents of his pan. Even with the small opening, Sau can see the basket contains a huge volume of shards, with an errant Star Piece or other elemental stone mixed in. Sau stares wide-eyed at the haul.'

    8
    Two Gym Badges left. Don’t get cold feet, now.
    The bandages crease in amusement as he turns away towards the sunset.

    After traveling through Fusaide Fields and the rest of the western Wild Area, Sau arrives at the gatehouse to Ecruteak City. He idly considers liberating the entire stock of Berry Juice from a vending machine, then purchases a single can of Aguav flavor. Before he can open the can, his phone rings with a familiar number.

    Sau
    Hey Sonthi.
    Sonthi
    Yes, hello Sau. Am I interrupting you?
    Sau
    Nope, otherwise I wouldn't have picked up.
    Sonthi
    Of course. Anyway, I was wondering, are you able to be at Goldenrod City tomorrow by 2 PM? I can arrange for transport. There is a Gogoat khalesa I can arrange to pick you up, as long as you aren't too far away, probably as far as Mahogany -
    Sau
    Wait slow down please. I'm in Ecruteak right now, so I can walk. You don't have to send your Gogoat...?
    Sonthi
    Carriage. Somdej has been using it to get around since Johto doesn't believe in automobiles.
    Sau
    Everything is pretty close. I can get there by noon tomorrow. Can you tell me what I need to be there for?

    Sonthi utters an important-sounding cough that attempts to erase his omission of this rather crucial detail until now. When he speaks again, it is like a film of metal coats his voice.

    Sonthi
    The Johto Elite 4 is hosting an event to commemorate my country's... financial contributions to the city of Goldenrod. Akosin has made several donations to projects in the National Park and Radio Tower, as part of the cultural exchange that includes my tour here.
    Sau
    You don't have to sell me on it, Sonthi, I'd be happy to visit. Are you giving a speech there or something?
    Sonthi
    N-no, it will be the Elite 4 members speaking. I think maybe I'll shake their hands or something, but it's mostly to survey the developments that Akosin has supported and take pictures. So I thought, maybe, it would be helpful to have someone on hand who knows the city and is my age...
    Sau
    Okay, sounds good. I'll call you again when I get to Goldenrod tomorrow?
    Sonthi
    Yes, let's meet at the National Park at 2. Thank you.
    Sau
    No, thank you for the invite!

    Sau can hear Sonthi exhale heavily as he hangs up.

    Sau
    Better get going, then. But before that, I wanted to visit the Gym again.

    Exiting the gatehouse, Sau takes a moment to regard Ecruteak's famous twin towers - one steel and progress, the other tin and tradition. The warm spring breeze floating through the air seems to bring the sounds and sights of the city to life. With a skip in his step, Sau imagines the wind carrying him down the hillside towards Ecruteak's central plaza. It seems like only a second before he arrives at his destination. A familiar silver-haired Trainer prunes the hedges framing the door, a Chimecho perched on his shoulder. He rises and offers a polite greeting that is somewhat marred by the vicious-looking shears gripped in his left hand.

    Chime
    Hello. Have you planted the Berry I gave you?
    Sau
    *This guy doesn't waste any time, does he?* I have! Some friends have set up a conservatory near Olivine City. It's called the Centre of the Hand and Land. It's a great place to grow and craft things. You should visit.
    Chime
    I would, but I've had to tend to the Gym while Nell has been away. Were you looking for her?
    Sau
    Just wanted to say hi to both of you again. I'm headed down to Goldenrod, but maybe on my return trip I could take you to see the Centre?
    Chime
    Hmm, maybe. No promises.

    Sau notices with some apprehension that since the beginning of the conversation, the Chimecho has fixated its blank, guileless stare on him. It shows no sign of stopping, or almost of even being alive.

    Chime
    Regardless if I come with you or not to the Centre, Nell wanted you to have this. It should help.

    With a hand that is oddly pale and pristine for a gardener, Chime proffers a heavy-looking yet delicately bound book. The cover offers no script, instead featuring a translucent magenta butterfly logo emblazoned on a black background.

    Chime
    Please open it.

    Sau accepts the gift and carefully turns the cover to the front page. A neatly parsed table of contents reveals the book's purpose: a primer of Berry growing, with attention given to proper sun, soil, and watering for each species. A crossbreeding table is featured towards the end of the book, with a smart-looking grid that includes as many empty spaces as it does pictures of each primary and crossbred Berry.

    Sau
    Wow, this is awesome! The illustrations of the Berries and crossbreeding diagrams are super helpful and easy to follow. And, uh, there are...

    Sau lifts his eyes from the book to awkwardly regard Chime. The gardener looks away, knowing what is about to be said.

    Sau
    ...cute mini versions of you demonstrating the proper care techniques?
    Chime. Yes.
    Sau
    There’s quite a bit of detail, considering the art style.
    Chime
    Yes.
    Sau
    ...Are you sure I should have this? I feel kind of bad -
    Chime
    Don't. She enjoys drawing them. And you will make good use of it, I'm sure.

    Chime nods to nothing in particular. His shoulder hunches, slightly elevating the inexorable Chimecho. Its empty line of a smile tightens ever so slightly. Sau senses it is probably best to move on.

    Sau
    Well, thank you. I need to get to Goldenrod City now, but please say hi to Nell for me.
    Chime
    One more thing. We want you to know that we’re monitoring the Steel Tower. All has been quiet since our little adventure. We wouldn’t want any further trouble.
    Sau
    Right, especially after what we saw inside the building. I don't know, doesn't it feel like they should be investigated?
    Chime
    I'll you a secret. Because of the power the Consortium wields, the authorities will do... nothing.
    Sau
    I think this is the point where Amakir would shout something about taking matters into our own hands. But still, Steel Tower hosts an entire R&D and security branch, right? How could we actually stop them?
    Chime
    Like any other. Cut it.

    Chime turns gracefully and retreats into his grotto. His Chimecho is suddenly gone.

    Sau
    Eh?

    The gardener waves his hand, cerise sash flowing like like a wave suspended in the wind. A bell echoes from the sky.

    Chime
    Be safe. We’ll meet again.

    As the ceremony at the National Park begins to wind down, Sonthi takes advantage of the thinning crowd to confer with the Elite Four directly. Khan appears to have gathered a constellation of admirers around the center of the stage he has just finished speaking at. Sonthi notes with some confusion but also gratitude that Somdej is within this group. He corrects his hurried gait into a more proper one upon reaching the wooden steps, taking a moment to collect himself.

    Sonthi
    Okay. Be confident. And polite. And if I'm lucky, personable.

    He dodges a few wellwishers, responding with hasty thanks, as he tries to get closer to the now scattered Elite Four members. Julian and Jian are already disembarking from a second set of steps. The pair do a marvelously subtle job of steering their path away from the crowd so as to avoid any further social interaction. Despite their differences in height, amber mask towering over stooped gray bun, they seem most comfortable in the company of each other, receding beyond the prince’s reach. Meanwhile, the throng of fans around Khan have rendered access to him virtually impossible.

    Sonthi
    Tch. I didn’t come all this way for nothing. Good thing there’s one more left...

    His target is standing quietly on the lawn at the outskirts of the stage, her cane resting against a nearby speaker system. Somehow, she has managed to pop to and from the banquet table and liberate a variety of appetizers, all on toothpicks held between her fingers like a tasty set of throwing knives. It is not the posture Sonthi expected to encounter her in. She greets him before he gains the courage to speak first.

    April
    Prince Sonthi. I see you have managed to escape the crowd?
    Sonthi
    Yes, thankfully. May I have a moment of your time?
    April
    Of course. May I recommend you try some of the hors d'oeuvre while we chat? The mini caprese salads are excellent. Oh, here comes a waiter now.

    She waves absentmindedly, flagging down a well-dressed man carrying a tray of the desired appetizers. Her fingers dispense suddenly empty toothpicks into a small disposal bin and quickly pluck fresh samples from the tray. Sonthi waits for her to finish, out of some concern for the safety of his own fingers. Despite years of training on proper etiquette and his own self-pep-talk, his next remark is frank.

    Sonthi
    That’s rather impressive, considering...

    He pauses, trying to avoid a faux pas.

    Sonthi
    Oops. Somdej would probably kill me if he heard that. If she doesn’t kill me first...

    April's glassy, broken eyes focus not quite on his face. When she smiles, he breathes a sigh of relief.

    April
    It’s simply a matter of smell. The basil’s location is quite obvious. And our waiter friend here is wearing rather too much cologne.

    The offending waiter bows nervously and absconds. April finishes off a last spear of mozzarella and resumes conversation as if nothing had happened.

    April
    As I’m sure you’ve gathered, there are other sensations I can perceive that make up for my disabilities. Sound. Vibration. All the light we cannot see.

    She casts her empty gaze upwards, where an imposing tower dominates the horizon. Sonthi follows suit, and comes to an understanding.

    Sonthi
    Including radio.
    April
    Indeed. We are very grateful for your country’s donations to our communications projects. Radio is an excellent medium, one of several I am fortunate enough to have some experience interpreting. And for those I do not, I have my Pokemon to help me.

    She lets a Pokeball fall to her side. An upright, pink Pokemon with an uncomfortably crustaceous hat pops out. Despite its almost comical appearance, Sau can immediately tell it is very intelligent. The Pokemon tilts its head precariously towards its Trainer, then pauses with an uncharacteristic sense of grace, as if conferring with her. The green gem embedded within its forehead shines cleverly, as if a true eye above two false, closed windows. There is the faint residue of psychic energy, and April smiles again, as if remembering something distantly amusing.

    April
    You’ve been tapping your right foot nervously for the entirety of our conversation, but the pace has slowed considerably. Ah, but now that I’ve mentioned it, it’s quickened once more.
    Sonthi
    !? I mean, i-it’s true, but we’re standing on soft grass, so I didn’t think there would be any noise.
    April
    My Noivern informed my Slowking, who informed me. I imagine you’re familiar with the talents of both Pokemon?
    Sonthi
    If I wasn’t before, I  certainly am now. And isn’t your Noivern still in its Pokeball?
    April
    It is.

    The Galarian Slowking slowly opens its mouth, revealing two blunt teeth at opposite sides of its jaw. It seems almost like an attempt to feign stupidity.

    Sonthi
    *blank look*
    April
    Hoho ~ my apologies. There are more useful things to do with my abilities than embarrass someone I am otherwise trying to help. I must admit, I was so looking forward to conversing with you that I couldn’t help but show off a bit. What was it you were looking to discuss?

    Sonthi finds this somewhat disorienting, but is happy for the lifeline.

    Sonthi
    Something that concerns your field of expertise - how to construct a Pokemon League. Akosin is very keen to start, but we first want to glean some advice from neighboring Leagues. This is the entire purpose for my trip, sightseeing aside.
    April
    And Johto is such a lovely country. Before we begin, I’d like to evaluate the type of advice you are looking for. Depending on your questions, it may be beneficial to defer you to another Elite Four member. What is your current stage of development? Is this a personnel versus structure issue?
    Sonthi
    To be honest, we’re starting completely from scratch. The logistics of gathering people together, finding the funds, getting approval from the government and people in general... those sorts of things. Sorry, I know it's a vague sort of question.
    April
    I am actually the newest member of the Johtoan League, so I may not be as helpful on those fronts. Jian and Julian have been present for ages. They know the inner workings of the League, and pioneer its investments and relationships from behind the scenes. And while Khan joined only a short time before me, he has a certain... *je ne sais quoi* about him. He understands how to socialize, to draw people to a cause, with such a languid easiness about him. It’s dangerous, in a beautiful sort of way. You could say his presence is a sort of luxury.
    Sonthi
    And yourself? I’m sure they don’t let people onto the Elite Four just because of their supernatural senses, with respect.
    April
    Oh? Don’t they?
    Sonthi
    ...
    April
    Hmhm~ Just my little joke.

    Her Slowking guffaws comically. She shushes it, returning it to its Pokeball.

    April
    Jokes aside, I believe the League had an appreciation for the perspective that I brought, considering my upbringing.
    Sonthi
    Right, you’re Kalosian royalty. Um, pardon my bluntness?
    April
    Estranged Kalosian royalty. And it’s perfectly fine to speak informally like this, thank you. Regarding the Akosin League, I would suggest this above all else: Find a Champion whose vision attracts not only a suitable quartet to support them, but the loyalty of the whole nation.
    Sonthi
    So start top-down? I admit I was thinking in the opposite direction.
    April
    It’s necessary to have certain pillars in place, of course. Gym locations, Leader scouting, planned philanthropy, fundraising. But there are plenty of exchangeable bureaucrats to set those things up. The Champion is the Champion.
    Sonthi
    I see... it’s interesting you say that, since, well, the Johtoan Champion is absent right now.
    April
    Indeed. And the Alolan champion is missing.
    Sonthi
    Wait, missing? I thought they were just on a hiatus.
    April
    Mm, I think there is a distinction between their current statuses. Regardless, both seem to prefer to be left to their own devices at the moment.
    Sonthi
    So how is the Johtoan Elite Four operating in the Champion’s absence? I imagine, like you said, there are plenty of paper pushers available to keep the organization running. And seeing an event like this, it looks like the Elite Four are more than capable of representing the League in their own right.
    April
    That’s very kind of you. But above each monarchy, there is only one crown.

    Sonthi decides against pointing out that the Pokemon League is not a royal institution, and instead replies tactfully for a change.

    Sonthi
    There are still many ways to support that crown, some of which are irreplaceable.
    April
    Might you be thinking of yourself, Prince Sonthi?

    He blushes, and she laughs.

    April
    Oh, don’t worry. I used to think of myself the same way. Come, I wish to continue our discussion, but first I need to track down the other waiter. The one that with an elderwood musk that is unfortunately smothering his charge of char siu. Let me fetch my cane...

    Defeating the Gym Leader of Blackthorn City causes her to become a bit misty-eyed:

    Clair
    You... *sob* how dare... *sniffle* how dare you!
    Sau
    I'm sorry, isn't this the point of the whole Gym Leader challenge? Can I have my badge?

    Clair chucks a small metal object at Sau with such force that it embeds itself in the wall just to the side of his head.

    Clair
    The point of the whole Gym Leader challenge is for me to be the winner in the end, dumbass!
    Sau
    Then what would the Elite Four do?
    Clair
    I don't know, they do all the busywork? They pay my salary and give me stipends to spend on making the Gym cuter, I'm not complaining.
    Sau
    I don't know, sometimes it feels like the Gym Leaders take care of more problems than the Elite Four. Present company excluded.
    Clair
    Hmph. Look, if you haven't noticed, Blackthorn is super isolated from the rest of the world, so it's not like we get all the news.
    Sau
    So you haven't heard about the strange Pokemon at the Lake of Rage or all the sketchy stuff the Consortium has been up to? Aren't you one of the top members of the Pokemon League?
    Clair
    You could say I just live under my own little rock. I don't really pay attention to what goes on at the League, couldn't care less ~ As long as they help my grow my beautiful Blackthorn Rose, and find challengers for me to destroy.
    Sau
    Okay, but I just destroyed you, so maybe you can tell me where to go next?
    Clair
    Ugh. Why don't you stay in the city and enjoy the sights? You could get your hair done, or come to my restaurant, or visit the ice sculpture gallery, or enjoy the sushi train, or -
    Sau
    How do you have a sushi restaurant in Blackthorn? I wouldn't trust anything sourced from literally the farthest city from the ocean.
    Clair
    Because we import them all from Olivine City, duh. Only the highest quality. Although we've had problems lately with supply, so irritating.
    Sau
    Oh?
    Clair
    Yeah. Zane says that there's been freak storms over there for the past few days, causing blackouts and shipping problems and junk like that. He overheard one of the Elite Four in the Tofu Ice Palace yesterday talking on her phone about it.
    Sau
    I'm going to ignore the fact that you just said "Tofu Ice Palace". Which Elite Four member was it? And I wouldn't trust any tofu from here either, frozen or not.
    Clair
    I don't know, the frumpy short lady or the frumpy cane lady? It doesn't matter. *pouts*
    Sau
    Do you think I could ask Zane about -

    The Raging Dragon of Blackthorn busts through the ceiling and lands in a shower of pink and black rubble. He holsters his gunblade dramatically and brings his hand to his face.

    Zane
    It was... the frumpy short lady. I saw it with my own eyes. Heard it with my own ears.
    Sau
    Thank... you...?
    Zane
    She didn't entertain me. She bought the last block of wasabi. I had my eyes on it. Pathetic.
    Clair
    Zane, we're not supposed to call the Elite Four pathetic, or they'll cut our pay again.
    Sau
    Just curious, is there any other info you overheard? Like, where the storms were coming from, or exactly how she was going to take care of it? I'm sure your top-tier ears heard everything.

    Clair rolls her eyes. Zane looks pleased in a minimally-pleased-and-still-brooding-way.

    Zane
    She whispered, but she couldn't deceive me. She spoke of the Whirl Islands, and quality agedashi tofu, and that she would be there soon. After she finished the agedashi tofu. It seems like no one can escape suffering...
    Sau
    ???This is like Ragya-Vara but explicitly worse??? Okay, I appreciate the info. I'll be going.
    Clair
    Wait, you can't leave until you come to my restaurant.
    Sau
    But I got the badge -

    Clair performs some sort of inhuman lunge and snatches the Badge from its resting spot in the wall before Sau can take it.

    Clair
    As I was saying ~
    Sau
    *sigh* I guess I got some good info, so I'll bite. But I think I should really be checking out the Whirl Islands after this. Don't you think you should too?
    Clair
    Us? I have ice sculptures to get to after our lunch. Ask the waffle guy in Olivine. I'm a better cook than him, obviously. And much more reliable.
    Sau
    That's kind of terrifying. Sounds like I need to tell the others... well, the important parts, anyway.

    By necessity, Sau accompanies Clair and Zane to their restaurant adjacent to the Gym. The decor is surprisingly cozy, a far cry from the magenta-ebony detonation next door. Each table sports a small centerpiece of a crystalline rose surrounded by a wreath of humbler flowers. Pictures of Blackthorn City attractions adorn the walls, and the kitchen staff operate in full view of the surprisingly small dining area.

    Clair
    Welcome ~ My restaurant is called the Duskthorn Rose.
    Sau
    Of course it is.
    Clair
    Please have a seat. No, over here! We'll be preparing the sushi in front of you.

    Sau takes a chair at a bar near the kitchen where a few other cooks bustle about preparing raw fish and other ingredients. A rather stylish pane of rose-tinted glass separates patron from the host while allowing each to observe each other.

    Sau
    I'm going to take my Magneton out, if that's okay. It wants to take pictures of the dinner.
    Clair
    Oh! I'm flattered. Zane, we're going to do our very best this time, okay? Like every time ~
    Zane
    You say that every time.
    Clair
    Well, I mean it! We have to treat Sau since he won. Let's work like we were making something for mom.
    Zane
    ...I wish you wouldn't say things like that.
    Clair
    Why not? Fine, then like we're making something for the Elite Four, if you want to be such a baby about it.

    Zane huffs across the kitchen and busies himself with the sushi rice. Clair rolls her eyes and gives Sau a significant look.

    Sau laughs a placating, nervous laugh and calls his Magneton from its Pokeball.

    Magneton
    This unit awaits the capture of photogenic moments.
    Sau
    *whispering* That, and I want you to record audio of what they say. I want to know if there's anything they say about the Pokemon League.
    Magneton
    Understood. This unit will continue to be an inconspicuous trinity of magnet orbs in the middle of a sushi restaurant.
    Sau
    Uh, also, please monitor their cooking and make sure everything is... edible.
    Magneton
    Please define parameters of "edible". Human sensitivity to smell, taste, and chemical composition of ingested items are fickle and unpredictable compared to this unit's sensors.
    Sau
    Make sure I won't get food poisoning, at least.

    Sau looks around the restaurant and notes a fair amount of diners, considering the time of day. A curious hint of Watmel Berry permeates the room, not at all the fishy smell he was expecting.

    Sau
    I guess I should be more charitable. I miss sushi.
    Magneton
    Empathy not found. Deploying Spy_Wraith.exe. Initiate "Haunt" mode.
    Sau
    ...You've been letting Chandelure name your own programs.
    Magneton
    This unit does not comprehend your illogical human assumption. "Haunt" mode is not to be taken literally. You would not understand.
    Sau
    Mm-hmm.

    Magneton dispenses an earpod for Sau to use and boots up its surveillance program. Soon enough, Clair and Zane's voices come into focus.

    Zane
    Twist the faucet open, and a fountain of delusion pours out.
    Clair
    Can you stop with the stupid mood poetry? Look, I just want to serve something nice. Can't we agree to do at least that?
    Zane
    It's not my fault that -
    Clair
    That's enough, Zane. Let's work together, please.
    Zane
    ...You're right. Mom wouldn't-
    Sau
    Um, Magneton, I don't think this particular bit should be recorded. Just filter out all the... well, the personal stuff, and I'll review the audio later.
    Magneton
    Affirmative. This unit will keep the tea to itself.

    Sau eyes his Pokemon to a quizzical look and decides to look around the restaurant while he waits. After passing some time admiring the Blackthorn watercolors on the walls, he notices Clair has taken her Alolan Ninetales out to help with some sort of secretive dish. Pretending not to notice, he texts Amakir and Sonthi, hoping to set up a meeting back in Olivine. When he looks up from his phone, Zane is looming above him in some sort of intensely unfathomable fog.

    Zane
    Lunch... is served.
    Clair
    For the love of Arceus, try to make it sound like a treat and not a funeral.

    Sau doesn't need to be convinced as the plates of sushi are placed in front of him. Particularly eye-catching is the Huntail roll adorned with feathers of cucumber and avocado.

    Sau
    I haven't had a Huntail roll since I lived in Alola. How did you know I loved these?
    Zane
    My All-Seeing Trance.
    Sau
    You sound like Millenia. H-how nice.
    Clair
    *beams* Everyone likes a good Huntail roll.

    Sau quite agrees and wastes no time digging in.

    Sau
    This is really good.
    Zane
    Don't think it will be that easy to compliment us.

    Sau quickly polishes off the rest of the Huntail roll and a few more pieces of nigiri.

    Sau
    I mean it. This is genuinely delicious.
    Clair
    We have the best cold-chain transportation and storage facilities around, fufufu. And Zane knows how to make the best cuts.

    Zane seems taken aback by his sister's words. His response is still dramatic, but perhaps more dignified.

    Zane
    The power of Huntail is nothing compared to mine. I'm sure you'll also love the coup de grâce Clair has prepared for you.

    The twins perform a rather theatric unveiling of Sau's dessert, gingerly placing a dish covered by a floral-embroidered cloth on the table. A curious mist drifts out from beneath the cover.

    Clair
    Fufufu!
    Zane
    Behold!

    Each twin grabs a corner of the cloth and removes it with a flourish, revealing a decadent, multi-layered parfait shrouded in a frosty haze. As Sau digs into it, he's impressed by the distinction between the warm fudge and cold custard. A spritz of Rawst and Pomeg Berries add some variety to the dish.

    Sau
    *monch* It's neat how you mix different temperatures into this dish without it just dissolving into some lukewarm mush.
    Clair
    I know, right? It's just like Zane and I. Hot and cold!
    Magneton
    This unit posits that you are both hot-temper-
    Sau
    That's a very good allegory, wouldn't you say, Magneton?
    Zane
    Indeed. It's gratifying to have our talents recognized.

    Sau hastily resumes devouring the parfait before either of them are the wiser. At the core of the parfait he finds a surprise - a solid block of ice, with something special and metallic inside.

    Sau
    One way to win a Badge, I suppose. Um, I can't really leave it in the ice?

    Zane snaps his fingers, and the crystal cube is consumed in a very dark and very localized burst of flame. The Badge now sits in a pool of melted custard. Gingerly, Sau fishes his prize out with a spoon.

    Sau
    Better than having it chucked at me Greninja-style, for sure. Thanks for the treat.
    Clair
    You're welcome back anytime! Oh, and as far as the Pokemon League, the Elite Four Challenge is handed case by case. You'll need to go seek out an Elite Four member personally.

    Sau's phone beeps, and he checks a text.

    Sau
    I think I know exactly where to find one.

    April Augustus disables her cloaking device and alights from her Noivern onto a nondescript bar of sand alone in the sea. A single tap from her cane, and a previously unseen hatch opens to allow her entrance. The Sound Wave Pokemon hums comfortably upon receiving a scratch underneath the chin, then is recalled into its Pokeball.

    April
    Julian first. He does enjoy his schedules.

    Julian
    I never properly thanked you for your help with the Lighthouse. The data it accumulated on sea currents and weather patterns will be invaluable for the next phase.

    They stand in a peripheral computer room of the Consortium's underwater base. Julian has ensured their audience is private, his Porygon-MAX having taken over the room's functions. Erratically, it bounces amongst its hoverpads, siphoning data from a network of nodes.

    April
    My pleasure. Olivine is, after all, my home. To stroll into the Lighthouse and place your little... ah, device...? was of no consequence.
    Julian
    All the same, we must ensure we replicate such discretion as we continue to fortify our position. Bit by bit. Piece by piece.
    April
    I take it our departure from this place will be as muted as possible?
    Julian
    The four of us all have perfectably serviceable reasons to perform our duties on Johto proper, as benefits members of the League.
    April
    And Marduk purchased that?
    Julian
    I imagine he will be pleased to have us out of his hair.

    Despite the flippancy of his response, April takes it at face value. Overreading a psionic's thought process, regardless of her gifts, seemed pointless. Regardless, he was the most senior member.

    April
    We will need to peel the scales from their eyes eventually, I should think.
    Julian
    Certainly. But in a regulated fashion.
    April
    Difficult when there will be a storm in every port. Between the Consortium's plans for the Whirl Islands, and our plans to split from them...
    Julian
    People will flock to whatever bastion of order they perceive safest. The Pokemon League has ever been so, especially when we align ourselves against natural disaster and corporate greed.
    April
    Perhaps we should not insult our hosts so while they still provide our room and board.
    Julian
    Soon, the tables will turn. To maintain order, one must first have control.

    Porygon-MAX's spine-like beak pecks insatiably at a console like some sort of deranged duck.

    April
    My, how far we've come. To think our predecesors could be usurped by 10 year olds. Though I mislike the price the Consortium extracted from us...

    She wonders how Julian managed such a clean break from his old organization. She herself could not give up a few remaining strings connected to her family, but this man was uncompromising. No matter what turn their conversation took, the aura behind the mask remained perfectly invariable.

    Julian
    They provided a necessary upgrade. They have now crossed a threshold of evil that can no longer be permitted to exist. Worse, still, that many of the populace feeds from their hand.
    April
    There may be those that include us among that number.
    Julian
    A fair point. But will they still think that way when our Champion no longer stays his hand?
    April
    ...ah. No, I think not.
    Julian
    He will fulfill his role nicely. Let him, by his guilt, lay bare the Consortium's own.

    A conclusive noise pings from Julian's Porygon-MAX. It waddle-floats over to its Trainer, brimming with what April can only assume is a trove of useful dirt on the Consortium.

    April
    I wonder, sometimes, if it had to be this way. If there was a quieter path to take. One that preserved what a Pokemon League should be.
    Julian
    You speak of yesterdays. Take care you are not chained to them. I shall take my leave now, if you would be so kind as to consult the others.

    April has always found it somewhat difficult to get to Khan's chambers, situated near the bottom of their underwater base. Though she cannot discern the specifics, from the bending of the light the charismatic man stands framed against a wall-wide window opened towards a view of Olivine's seafloor. Descending from the elevator, she encounters his bothersome, opulent staricase, which takes some time to navigate. A clinking sound and a specific, spirited aroma leads her to deduce he is several servings through a bottle of Jacoba Berry juice. Despite her presence being announced by her cane's taps against the tile, he good naturedly allows her to speak first.

    April
    Prepared for your big performance, Dr. Khan?
    Khan
    *sigh* Just Khan. I've read the script through and through. I need to dazzle not only the locals, but Kanto as well?
    April
    Our neighbors must be led to believe that everything is under control. I believe your adventures have taken you many a time throughout the region?
    Khan
    I've won and lost much in Kanto. And not just at the Game Corner.
    April
    I should think our strategy is more of a sure bet. As do Julian and Jian.
    Khan
    Yes, yes, of course. Capitalize on sentiment against the Consortium, and jump ship before we all go down. Though, who knows how desperately they will cling to us, even as we sacrifice them?

    April senses the presence of a Pokemon drifting along the seafloor from the other side of the window. A Cursola, from its ectoplasmic aura. Khan's own, she assumes, from the way he is drawn to the barrier between them.

    Khan
    The future threatens to slip away from us, and soon we may be scattered on headstones underneath the sea.
    April
    You alone have captured enough goodwill among the people to insulate us. A bit melodramatic, ne?
    Khan
    But you know something of melodrama, Princess.

    The tone of the rebuttal surprises her; jovial on the surface, cloaking a knowing edge. Instead of pushing the knife further, he brings himself closer to the oceanview, his aura mingling with the phantom Pokemon inches beyond his fingers. She takes advantage of his silence.

    April
    This drama will be orchestrated on our own terms. We have contingencies to clearly step away from the Consortium.
    Khan
    I'd hope so, especially after that mess at the Lake of Rage.
    April
    Consider taking a stock of faith instead of another drink, Khan. We will be successful.
    Khan
    And how will we define success? Will all of Johto love us?
    April
    Oho ~ I wonder, Khan, if you could stand to be hated?

    Sensually, almost cruelly, his lips curl, then down a fresh libation. The hollow branches of the Cursola outside bend as if shaken by some pelagic wind.

    Khan
    This is the absolute lesson of time: that we will never understand love, and thus never truly understand hate. Yet, why would I flee from either?
    April
    Ah, for you would forget what it is to feel at all.
    Khan
    To feel nothing at all...

    He is transfixed in the window, a dark and striking silhouette. Sorrowfully, he pours another glass of juice.

    Khan
    Perhaps that is what I should yearn for. Let this world hate me, let them dash themselves against this immovable body.

    April pictures the sound of a thousand screaming fans, all grasping at the chance to fall into Khan's eyes. The more she speaks with the man, the more she does not know what - or who - he needs.

    April
    Be careful what you wish for, especially during your speech tomorrow. And haven't you had quite enough Jacoba?

    Khan chuckles - a beautiful dirge - and downs his drink in one go.

    Khan
    Here's to tomorrows. Always farther away than you think.

    His glass has magically refilled itself. He extends it towards her, a mock toast she cannot see, and stumbles magnificently from the room. Just as suddenly, the aura of the drowned ghost has vanished.


    Jian Yu has set up shop in a nondescript break room, far away from the laboratories April assumed she would be haunting. When April enters the room, she ascertains the presence of Jian's Xatu perching motionlessly atop what she assumes is a stack of documents or furniture.

    Jian
    Khan and Julian are prepared, then?

    The scientist's attention appears to be heavily focused on the Xatu, despite her inquiry. April fishes unsuccessfully for a chair, then gratefully takes a seat as her associate nudges a stool over. Waiting for Jian to be done with an experiment could take some time.

    April
    They are. It would be best to make ourselves scarce before Kavan or Marduk see fit to interrogate us on our way out.
    Jian
    Perish the thought.
    April
    Though I assume they are too busy with their latest catch to pay us much heed.
    Jian
    How could they, with their plastic minds?

    April does not quite know what to say. She has not been immersed in the field of Augmentation and scientific study the way Jian and Julian have, and thus cannot muster any spicy gossip against the Consortium's higher-ups.

    Jian
    Forgive me, this is not a competition.
    April
    I do feel we have much at stake, though. The information gathered at this base should at least remain in our hands - I believe Julian has seen to that.
    Jian
    Far better in ours than theirs. The Consortium knows nothing of patience.

    Jian continues to focus on her Xatu, which has so far exhibited only the most minimal signs of being alive. After a full minute of silence, April hesitantly attempts to remind Jian of the time.

    April
    Mm...
    Jian
    Yes?
    April
    I found it interesting that although our hour of departure approaches, you are spending it studying your own Pokemon - not using it for an express purpose while we remain in this facility.
    Jian
    We should understand the Pokemon closest to us in order to make sense of others. Otherwise we would all be like Kavan, chasing after legendary beasts without knowing the first thing about their innate behaviors.
    April
    I've always found Director Kavan to be fairly even-handed with his approaches. Though some of his language is rather hopelessly romantic... ironic, I know, coming from myself.

    Jian expels a measured huff of disbelief.

    Jian
    The practice of Augmentation relies overmuch on forced chemical modification. Hardly romantic.

    April does not bring herself to comment on certain similarities she has noticed with some of Jian's practices in the past. It would not do to create a disagreement with a fellow Elite Four member - especially Jian - at this delicate time.

    April
    To hear him say it, he simply wishes to unlock the mysteries of Pokemon, as we all do.
    Jian
    I would draw some distinctions between us. Actually, if I could speak to him in person, I might say...

    What follows next is perhaps the most uncharacteristic soundbite April has ever heard from a fellow Elite Four member. Jian's tone is singsong, patronizing - as if speaking to a child.

    Jian
    You like mysteries? I have a mystery for you. Why you so dumb, eh?
    April
    ...
    Jian
    ...
    Xatu
    ...Xa?
    Jian
    ...aha.

    April detects an ephemeral shift in the air from the Xatu's location - perhaps Khan would have waxed about it as a 'cosmic breeze'. The effect is rather monumental considering the Pokemon's immobility thus hence. Jian begins mumbling and scratching down notes.

    April
    What has it done, if I may ask? And what on earth was that?
    Jian
    My apologies. I did not fully expect such a display to elicit a response. The wing most proximate to me extended briefly in a semaphore-like fashion before folding at an equal velocity. The phenomenon lasted no more than three seconds. No other movement. Since you're here... you see in a particular shade of color, yes? Please describe to me any emotional shift you detected in Xatu.

    The request is an uncommon one. While her abilities are fairly well known among the four, April would not have expected such a direct inquiry.

    April
    Xatu's hue is baseline a very thorough gray. When it reacted to your... outburst, there was a faint hint of chartruese.
    Jian
    Meaning?
    April
    Surprise, tinged with... ah, amusement. For most Pokemon, I should say.

    The revelation sends Jian into a ponderous state. April has the faint feeling of being analyzed like a particularly novel test subject. She also senses that she is opening a can of worms, a premonition confirmed by what the scientist says next.

    Jian
    There are theories that Xatu can see into the past and future. Which is all very valuable, yes. But what’s truly interesting is observing its reactions in the moment.
    April
    Reactions that are compiled over time into data, yes?
    Jian
    Correct. However, Pokemon are fundamentally beings of the present. While they possess animalistic loyalities based on past events and form family units with the aim of propagating into the future, at their core they operate within the confines of today.
    April
    With exceptions - such as your Xatu here.
    Jian
    The exception proves the rule. Why does Xatu, supposedly gifted with omniscience, choose to remain static? All that potential knowledge, silent and stationary?
    April
    I can't say I disagree when presented with such an example. Is this a field of study you are conducting with others?
    Jian
    It's mostly confined to my own research... but some Pokemon other than my own have provided insight. A certain Magnemite, for instance. We can learn a great deal about the meaning of "today" from Pokemon.

    Almost silently, Jian rises from her chair and recalls her Xatu with no further ceremony. As she stands in the doorway, April is reminded of how small her associate is.

    Jian
    My appreciation for your insights - I shall be returning to Goldenrod. I understand you will be remaining in Olivine to monitor how events unfold. Be well. And don't hesitate to ask for assistance.

    Her comrades having departed, April soon follows suit and leaves the undersea base without encountering another soul. Darkening clouds gather in her wake, and as she travels in silence aboard her Corviknight, she can tell from the path of rain that the encroaching storm will overtake the mainland within hours. By the time she alights upon a secluded beach, she is drenched. The Olivine Lighthouse is a lonely beacon a mile away. A hooded figure calf-deep in the water waits for her, the gloom of his robes eclipsing even the sky.

    April
    Thank you for the courtesy.
    ???
    Soon?
    April
    They have pushed it beyond even its capacity, and the existing containment measures will fail. Jian was certain.
    ???
    Then I won't be long.
    April
    It is unfortunate you are not remaining with us.
    ???
    Julian shared some juicy info with me. I'm going to Alola.

    The stranger waves a pair of dubious disks in a gloved hand, then pockets them tightly in the midnight folds of his robes. On the horizon, a flash of lightning kisses the waves.

    April
    Ah, in this climate?
    ???
    It's raining.
    April
    The Consortium is engineering an uncontrollable typhoon by virtue of their failed experiments on a Legendary Pokemon. But yes, it is raining.
    ???
    Cool, the Consortium also has a bunch of things in Alola I'd love to un-engineer. The four of you can handle Johto, yeah? You don't need little old me.
    April
    I suppose it has ever been the Champion's tradition to maintain their independence.
    ???
    That's a kind way of saying I'm a loose cannon.
    April
    Ohoho~ It is my nature to present the very face of kindness. Speaking of which, wouldn't it be fair to at least join the call with the others before you depart? You know how much Khan loves to banter with you.
    ???
    Pass.
    April
    ...This is about your siblings, isn't it?

    The man says nothing, but April knows, even without either sets of eyes, that his temper has flared. With a touch too much force, he throws a Pokeball into the ocean. A Starmie emerges, its central jewel pulsing radiant red. One limb is missing.

    April
    Please do not mistake my concern for opposition. I understand this is important to you. I... know all too well.
    ???
    I don't need your permission.
    April
    Then at least consider my advice - for when you arrive in Alola, and when you return. Consult with us. Be cautious of the timing.
    ???
    Time breaks all the time.

    A sudden gust of stinging wind races through the sands, catching the pair off guard. When it abates, the man's hood has blown off. Yellow eyes gleam balefully from behind a mop of jet-black, strangely brittle hair. He jumps into the turbulent sea, clings on to his Starmie, and sets off towards the south. As wind and water rise to strike him, the surface of his skin oscillates between seamless and scarred.

    8
    And I hate meetings.

    After her encounter with 8, April returns to her seaside home. Water continues to paint the windows as night settles in. Idly monitoring her Pokegear in between sips of tea, she notes that all of her colleagues have reported reaching their destinations, with the exception of 8. Just radio silence from that one. As she sets down her cup, her Slowking rolls across the carmine carpet and utters a vague harrumphing noise. Quietly, she takes a sturdy umbrella from its sheath near the door and steps into the rain. A piercing cry greets her from across the ocean - a harsh cascade too torturous to be a song. She taps a few buttons on her Pokegear, clutching it close in a vain attempt to keep it dry. Slowking, having barely kept up with her, projects a barrier above her head that renders the umbrella obsolete. As they make the slow descent back to the beach, the others join the call.

    Julian
    Report.
    April
    I can hear Lugia. It's time.
    Jian
    Pity. I expected their vaunted contraptions to last for more than a day.
    Khan
    Not the safest place to be, April.
    April
    Safe enough. Though there is not much I can do besides observe, and trust the rest of you to make use of my report.
    Julian
    I will manage the infiltration from our auxillary headquarters near Mahogany Town. The Consortium and our interesting band of adventurers think it cleared out, so I expect no disturbances.
    April
    You are certain you can operate from such a remote and cramped location?
    Khan
    There isn't anything left there besides ghosts, my friend.
    Julian
    All I need is an access point to regulate the flow of information. Whoever regulates information, regulates the people. Our association with the Consortium will be forgotten.

    Yesterday is gone.

    Khan
    Sounds good, mama.
    Julian
    I beg your pardon?
    Khan
    Eh? Oh, nevermind that.
    Jian
    Khan, you wouldn't be compromising our conversation by involving a casual third party, would you?
    Khan
    Nah, you must be hearing things. I'm the only one here.
    April
    Though perhaps you should begin mingling with our intended audience soon.
    Khan
    Alright, let me get a drink and I'll be off. It's 10:10 - as good a time as any to start my dance with Kanto. Let them see only me. Let them see only the eternal.

    Tomorrow is not yet here.

    Julian
    A novel idea. We await only the Consortium to make their misstep.
    Jian
    I will be present to evaluate whatever specimens are still worth saving.
    Khan
    Kind of cold, don't you think, Jian? I thought the goal was to differentiate ourselves from them.
    Jian
    The difference exists. I don't play games with Pokemon. But remember, we had a hand in enabling this. We must assume responsibility.
    April
    Even so, it will be difficult to account for every Pokemon in every lab.
    Jian
    Indeed. Hence the evaluation. Those yet manageable will be gradually reconditioned.
    Julian
    Jian, I will inform you of the facilities I manage to destabilize. I will attempt for the least damage possible, but I cannot predict the status of each Pokemon when I am finished.
    Jian
    We shall meet them as they are.

    We have only today.

    Khan
    Cheers to that.
    Julian
    Are we ready?

    Another distorted shriek from faraway, only in April's ears. She closes her eyes, and casts them across the ocean, towards a maze of steel of shackles embedded within the Whirl Islands.

    April
    Let us begin.

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