Masks of All Kinds

I looked on in horror as I saw the handle in Crum's hand. Glass littered the ground as passersby walked around the debris. Crum wore an equally shocked expression as he held his grip on the remaining part of the door to the Pokemart.

We had come here to buy the Limiter Belt Crum needed now he had evolved into a Machoke. He had tried to be courteous and open the door for me. No good deed goes unpunished.

A middle-aged man in a blue apron came rushing from inside at us. "What the hell happened here?" he questioned heatedly.

"Oh. Uh, sorry. I was coming here to buy a Limiter Belt but, we weren't able to get here before my Machoke…broke something," I spoke in hopes of defusing the situation. Judging by the pulsing veins in the man's neck, I wasn't successful. "I'm Al Brown. I can pay for this," I said with an outstretched hand.

The man let out a breath and dragged his hand over his face. "The name is Don and forget the door kid. This why adults have insurance. Leave your Pokémon in its ball next time, okay."

"Will do, and I really can pay. I have the money," I apologized while I returned Crum. I mentally berated myself for letting the fact that I was so happy we were friendly again get in the way of the fact Crum had no way to control his increased strength.

Don stared me down, trying to measure me up. He must have seen something as he rolled his eyes in exasperation. "I appreciate it son but consider this a learning experience. I can't even get an idea of how much this will cost till I get a claims adjuster here. Just keep in mind that adults don't always the luxury of being forgiven for their actions."

The fact he was looking down on me as child irked me a bit. I was perfectly capable as an adult, at least financially. An undefeated Trainer was usually rolling in the cash, and I had Caroline as a financial advisor. The unknown slight he sent at me tempered my desire to pay my debt, so I narrowed my eyes and head into the store.

Pokemarts were unique in every city, unlike their Pokémon Center counterparts. Each Mart was tailored to its city and the surrounding areas needs. Viridian had higher grades of Antidotes than most in the region, while Vermillion had a more excellent supply of bait for fishing. It was little differences that set them apart. Also, while the Centers had affiliation with the League, Pokemarts were not. Some were part of corporations, and others were locally owned, such as in smaller towns like Lavender Town.

Certain items were harder to find, such as Evolutionary Stones and rare Berries. Thankfully I found a Limiter Belt very quickly. Since Machoke was a typical construction worker, most Marts had a small stock of these belts.

I continued to walk the aisles as I resupplied my healing supplies, I had used during the travel from Cerulean to Vermillion. I also grabbed more special Pokémon feed for each member of my team. While I was comparing brands, I felt my Pokegear rumble with a call.

"Hello," I answered without looking at the ID.

"Congratulations, Al. A mission complete and a Badge won. I'm impressed and even more important so is the Boss," Archer smoothly cheered over the phone.

I scrunched up my face in a disgusted frown at his voice. Not only had Archer found out about my completed mission but had also heard of my Gym victory well before it had been placed into the League system again. I could hear his smug smile across the line as he reveled in the feeling of being a step ahead of me. I pulled back my anger by reminding myself that I not only knew his future but was playing him. He wasn't a step ahead. He was a thousand behind.

"Archer, always good to hear from you. Did you need me for something that wasn't a glorified delivery?" I snarked back at him.

A pleased chuckle answered me. "Now Al, Team Rocket needed to grab a measure of your commitment to us merely. A simple job completed without conflict allows me to affirm to those in Rocket leadership your capabilities. While not quite an agent trusted to complete a solo mission, you now have the title of being an agent. sIn fact, you are to come back to the Outpost. I have a gift for you."

Without giving me time to decline, Archer hung up. I growled in distaste while I pocketed my Pokegear. I quickly walked over to the register to pay. As I did so, I turned to see Don sweeping the glass from in front of the store. I slipped the items I bought into my bag as I ambled over to him.

"Please, let me pay. I feel terrible," I pleaded to Don. He leveled a look at me, and his mouth quirked into a small smile.

"Look, kid, I appreciate, but I remember how hard it was starting as a Trainer. Things may seem easy now but give it a few losses, and you won't be so free with your money. Pay me back by coming back when you need supplies. A few years of loyal patronage will drain your savings more in the long term."

Don wore a pleased visage as he looked down at me. I still felt terrible despite his friendly nature. A person should always make up for their mistakes. Then an idea struck me. I pulled out a scrap of paper from one of my notebooks I kept for field notes and scribbled a number down on it.

Confusion spread over Don's face as I handed him the paper. "Call that number later. Think of them as a celebrity endorsement," I smirked up the manager.

A look of amusement replaced uncertainty as Don chuckled at my comment. Not surprising as it wasn't common for ten-year-old to know celebrities much less be one. At least in certain circles.

I waved bye as I head towards the Pokémon Fan Club and the headache that was Archer Apollo of Team Rocket.

xxx

As I walked into the Fan Club, I came upon with two surprises. First was that lights were off and second was that only Archer was waiting for me. He was seated where the Chairman had previously been. He lazed back with a smile gracing his features. In front of him lay a stainless-steel briefcase that I supposed was my "gift."

"Al, you have truly exceeded expectations. I was sure it would take you another month to beat Surge, but lo and behold not only did you trounce him, but you also completed the mission I tasked you with. Such efficiency has impressed those of us within the higher echelons of Team Rocket." His laidback smile became replaced with one of hunger. "You are proving a worthwhile investment. So much so that I can fast track your rise into an Agent. While not a commander role, you will be above the simple Grunt. Now is when you thank me."

I crossed my arms and rolled my eyes as he crowed. His tone told me he was far more pleased with his acquiring of me than my actual efforts. I hadn't indeed done much. Only proved I wasn't as incompetent as the standard Grunt that was always caught by the authorities. Loyal to a fault, but it was well known the lower levels of the Rocket organization comprised of washed out Trainers and criminals of all flavors.

"As long as you're happy, then I'm happy," I sneered back at the Executive. I strolled over to the table that Archer was seated at and pulled up a chair. "Now what does becoming an Agent entail. Hopefully not more delivery missions."

Archer gave off a chuckle. "No. you have proved that your capabilities far exceed such missions. As an Agent, you will be expected to maintain your cover as Trainer on the Gym Circuit. We will occasionally call to give a mission, but they will vary in difficulty and timeframe. As such, you will be given a codename to hide your identity from even those within Team Rocket with a few exceptions."

"Is Archer just a codename," I questioned.

"No, no. As an Executive, the whole organization must know my status. Unlike our Agents, I am in no danger of a loose-lipped Grunt upsetting my life. Agents are allowed a life outside of Team Rocket. For all other Executives and I, Team Rocket, is our life. Serving our leaders dream is our purpose." Adoration flooded over him as he basked in his idolatry in Team Rocket. A true fanatic if I ever heard one.

Archer continued his debrief with a theatrically wave of his hand. "You are unique among Agents due to your age and reputation. Being so young will make you susceptible to Psychic intrusion by even the weakest Psychic type. I have had something special made to both hide your identity and protect your thoughts."

He was correct on the fact that my age made me more susceptible to psychic infiltration. A child's brain was continually growing at least in the sense of their mental capabilities. As an adult in a child's body, I wasn't sure how my mind had grown compared to that of an average child.

I wasn't weak to telepathy. I was lucky to have little contact with Psychic types. If Archer could give me a way to protect my thoughts and more importantly, my memories, then I was already getting more out of this partnership than previously thought.

Continuing his showmanship, Archer spun the briefcase between and unclasped the hinges. He slowly opened the case to reveal its contents.

Inside was a mask — more a cowl than anything. The mask was shaped to cover the top half of my face and head. My mouth would be exposed while my eyes would be covered by a dark film that draped over the eye sockets. I stroked the mask and was surprised by how smooth it felt.

"The mask is made from a Tyranitars hip bone. The durability will ensure it will withstand most trauma while the Dark-type properties of the Pokémon will ensure your minds protection. Our manufacturers tell me that its Dark aura is so strong that even if you aren't currently wearing it, it will take a particularly strong Psychic to enter your mind. With the mask you have assured protection," Archer explained with a sickeningly pleased tone.

I held back a shudder as I picked up the mask. Using Pokémon within manufactured goods was not uncommon. However, to use Tyranitar bone was exceptionally dangerous and cruel. Tyranitar upon death solidified instantly into a rock. So, to receive the bone for use, the Tyranitar had to have been alive during the extraction. There was no doubt in my mind that this Tyranitar was not at peace when it finally died.

"Go ahead and try it on. It has a strap in the back to tighten or loosen it," Archer instructed. I slipped the mask over my face as my head settled into the strap. The cowl felt more like a helmet as I pulled back the back half to cover my entire head. I felt along the sides for iron clips that secure the two halves of the mask together.

I felt a brief sense of panic as I the Dark aura wash over me but quickly acclimated as I focused on the fit of the mask. It felt cold without changing the temperature to the rest of the room. I secured the fit to make it comfortable. I rolled my head around and made quick, jerky movements to ensure its stability.

Despite my desire to state otherwise, the cowl was excellently crafted. My vision was not impaired despite a slight loss in my peripherals. It had a weight to it, but the mask could hardly be considered

substantial.

"It feels good. I'm impressed," I complimented with real meaning. My voice sounded slightly deeper and wispy. Dark auras were incredibly hard to measure, and there was little knowledge on its effect on the natural world. The hip bone must have enough ambient aura to affect my voice as it exited my mouth. Not scientifically accurate, but neither were Dark types.

Archer smiled slightly, "I will take the praise to heart. It must take quite a bit to achieve such from you." I frowned at him though I wasn't sure how my glare looked while wearing the mask. "When you are on a mission, you are to wear this not that I believe you wouldn't."

I grunted in affirmation as I removed the mask. I continued to examine the exterior of the cowl. It completely covered my hair and ears to hide my identity better. Archer had put forth considerable effort to protect me. "What next," I questioned.

He steepled his fingers as he slipped from his affable nature into one of seriousness. "We have found readings coming off from the abandoned Power Plant on Route 10. Currently, we are still examining the data, but I have decided that we need a visual. In two weeks, you will meet back at the Cerulean outpost. You will not be leading the mission but will likely the strongest among the team we assemble. As an Agent, you are separate from the team, but I recommend you follow the orders of the leading Grunt. This mission is simply an experience issue. Consider this an opportunity to learn how to lead in the future."

I quickly flinched my mouth to a frown. "I don't like working with others. Less so having to lead idiots." Even before this world, I didn't play well with others.

The stare Archer sent at me brooked no complaint. "Whether you realize it or not, you have the makings of a leader. Our Boss saw such capabilities in me, and I see similar abilities in you. Either way, you will be expected to lead in the future. You best grow up in that regard."

My eyes widened at this appraisal from Archer. The frank praise startled me. I wasn't expecting Archer to think so much of me. At least in so short of a time. I felt a strange feeling in my chest that I hadn't felt in years. I felt…pride. I was disgusted.

I stuffed my mask into my bag, and hastily rose up to leave. "If we are done here, I'm going to use this time to train."

As I turned to leave, Archer called out to me, "One more thing. Do you not wish to know your new alias?"

I looked over my shoulder with narrowed eyes. Archers face contorted into a smirk that spoke of a joke that only he knew. "What is it," I inquired.

Archers smile morphed into an even more smug visage. "You are now known as the Iron Mask Marauder."

xxx

I was currently looking out into a large pond on Route 6. In my hands was my new mask. Annoyance and familiarity plagued my thoughts as I stared at the macabre cowl.

I knew the name "Iron Mask Marauder" was associated with Pokémon. The problem was it was either so long ago or insignificant that I couldn't grasp its exact place within the Pokémon universe. Whatever or whoever the Marauder was in Pokémon wasn't my issue.

It was the fact I forgot anything in general. I had made several plans based on the fact I remember most things. I didn't have an eidetic memory simply excellent recall. However, if I forgot something at all, even the smallest detail, might indicate I had forgotten something much more significant.

The past month I had been operating on the assumption that I could coast through my plans to return home on my in-depth knowledge of Pokémon. After being blindsided one too many times by Archer and not outright blowing out the Gym Leaders, I needed to take more active efforts in my team.

Time training was time better suited for furthering my goal of going home. I had to accept that my natural abilities and those of my team were not enough. I couldn't have a real powerhouse on my team as Pokémon that was considered absurdly powerful took time to train.

That was why Crum was as crucial as he was to the team. A Machamp was top tier in physical strength, and Crum already was dedicated to me despite our previous tension.

None of my current team had such potential. All of them, if properly trained, were as dangerous as any other Pokémon, but I didn't want to dedicate the time to such long term training.

My brooding was quickly interrupted by my Pokegear trilling in my pocket. I smiled as I recognized the number.

"Hey, Sam. How is it going?"

"Oh, quite well, Al. I just scheduled a meeting with a Don of Vermillion to have a promotional event next month. I was quite surprised when my private number was given out to a stranger. Even more so when I hear it was payment for a broken door. Quite a surprise, hmm," the Professor hummed.

I broke out into a smile. Sam wasn't agitated. He was as much an entrepreneur as he was a scientist. The Pokemon Professor valued good business relationships as much as his privacy to work in the lab. Though he never corrected the assumption that he was a hermit that hated communication. He still much preferred his scholarly pursuits over any other.

"Well next time Crum breaks down a door, I won't use your fame as payment," I teased across the phone.

Sam chuckled good-naturedly, "Hopefully you won't have any more troubles with doors. Now tell me about Crum's evolution. You must have been battling nonstop for him to have evolved already. How much larger did he grow? Is he comparable to other of his species? What were the effects of his feed? Have you noticed increased levels of testosterone?"

I rolled my eyes as Sam slipped into his role as the Pokémon Professor. He knew more about Pokémon than anyone. Hell, he probably had more information on Crum than I did despite our traveling together. The Pokedex was a modern marvel, but in my opinion, Samuel Oak was the real miracle. Regarding being a font knowledge at least.

"His overall size seems to be in line with other males of his species, though from my own bias, I would say his muscle mass is denser from the type of training I've put him through," I recited back to Sam as fell back into being one of his assistants. "Though not able to accurately measure without the proper machines, I believe that specialty feed allowed Crum to greater acclimate to his evolution. It was extremely evident by his performance post-Evolution against Surge."

"Oh, he evolved in a Gym battle that must have been spectacular. How about his behavior," Sam interrupted.

A visible flinch hit me as I thought about how Crum and I had been over the past few days. I was glad Sam couldn't see that. "Before the evolution we were…in a bit of a disagreement. After he evolved, we reconciled so if he is feeling increased aggression; he may be trying to hide it so as not to ruin the peace."

The Professor hummed in contemplation as he absorbed my report. "Trainers and Pokémon rarely always get along. It's the sign of a good Trainer and team if they can solve any problems without lasting damage to their synergy." I grunted in affirmation as I waited for more on his thoughts. "Though I will say that any Pokémon, especially a Machoke, needs time to release any excess energy and get used to its body. I recommend you allow Crum to run free to get used to his new body before he heads back into training."

"Thanks, Sam. Any advice for the rest of my team? I know you have my notes and their information over the Pokedex," I asked. Sam was the only person I accepted as being more knowledgeable on Pokémon. My Albert Einstein persona had a bit of a reputation among the scientific community of being a bit arrogant. Currently, I was in a feud with Professor Paul Elm on the correct classification of Abilities among Pokémon. Based on the reviews of our articles, I was winning.

Shuffling sounds reverbed over the Pokegear as Sam searched his assuredly cluttered desk. Both of us had a similar style of organized chaos to keep track of everything. It pissed Halsey off to no end.

"Let's see I knew about the Shinx. You also have a Ponyta and a Sandshrew. A very decent team with good coverage. I can already see what style of combat your attempting."

"Oh?" I questioned. I was curious as to what he saw as the only Pokémon I outright caught was Blink. A common theme among my team was not known to me.

"Speed. While none of your Pokémon are outright the fastest of even their type, they all can overwhelm opponents with hit and run tactics. If properly trained, you could have a team that is rarely hit. At least until you battle a Trainer of sufficient experience."

The realization hit me as I thought on my team. I had already been working to make my unit work as such. The thought of making my whole team work as unhittable speed demons hadn't fermented yet in my mind.

"So, what you are saying is focus on making sure my Pokémon aren't hit."

"Its an option. Pokémon are immensely flexible in their capabilities. However, I don't such tactics holding out in higher levels of League battling. You will have to figure out the details yourself. After all, that's part of the joy of being a Trainer, figuring it out yourself," Sam laughed out.

Already I had my notebook out as I sketch out plans and strategies I was planning out. Sam had given me an idea on how to beat even the most powerful Trainer. That idea was nasty mean.

"Appreciate it Sam. Sorry about blindsiding you with the Pokemart thing," I apologized.

Sam let a huff of air in dismissal. "It's no big issue, my boy. It gave me a good reason to call. I will endeavor to try to more often, but well you know how I can be," he sheepishly spoke across the line.

"I do. I will try to do it myself. Oh, and tell Halsey she's on my list for ratting me out to Caroline," I warned.

A laugh echoed as Sam finished his goodbyes, "I will. Also, Al, congratulations. You are exceeding my expectations." The line cut off as Sam hanged up.

A surge of warmth hit my chest as I soaked in his praise. This feeling of pride wasn't as off-putting as when I had felt it from Archer's compliments. I let out a sigh in exasperation. I was sorely deprived of the emotional fulfillment an adult needed over a child.

I steeled myself as I began to plan my training session with my team. Time to get rocking.

xxx

I stoked the fire as my team chowed on their dinner. The night was illuminated both the light and the moon. As I looked out into the dark, I saw a few Oddish plodding along, avoiding us while absorbing energy from the moonlight.

A feeling of contentment permeated the camp. The tension between Crum and I that previously stifled our nights had reverted to our quiet nights from the beginning of our journey.

I had finished our training schedule for the next two weeks. I waited for my team to finish dinner before I began explaining it to them. Slowly the settled after eating and with a soft grunt from Crum they all turned to face.

I sent a thankful smile to him as I began, "First off let's congratulate Pan for winning us our third badge and Crum on both a hard-fought win and his evolution." Snorts and cries sounded off as the team cheered. Well, the team besides Blink. He gave a nod, so that was about as good as we were going to get. Shimmer and Pan cheered enough for him as is. Hard to tell with his skin tone, but a light blush graced Crum's face.

As they calmed down again, I adopted a more severe expression. "Now we have two things to discuss tonight. First, I needed to apologize to you all." Uncertainty was apparent on their faces except for Crum who had a look of understanding. I had learned my lesson on trust in my team. People are deceitful, but even the most mischievous Dark type wouldn't betray its trainers. If adequately trained, that is.

"I have been hiding a large decision because I doubted your understanding. I'm sure you all remember Team Rocket from Mt. Moon," I dryly reminded them as they all gave nods of understanding. "After we beat Misty in Cerulean, I beat the Nugget Bridge challenge. At the end of the, a representative of Team Rocket asked me to join. I said, yes."

Whereas Crum had shown obvious distress when I made the decision, the others only had a mild level of surprise. This was to be predicted. Crum had a lifetime of learning about the crimes where the others would only have the Mt. Moon incident. Their reactions to human enemies would always be less compared to Crum. Until they learned otherwise and sadly, I think they would know this danger sooner rather than later.

A sigh escaped from as I readied for my explanation. "I did this not because I agree with their beliefs or desire to work with them, but to take them out from the inside. The League has, for as long as I've known, been unable to wipe them out or identify their leader. My position in the world makes me unique and a tantalizing resource for the Rockets. I will rise through the ranks to find out the Leaders identity, prove his position, and take out the organization."

I paused as I let this revelation sink in. Again this mostly passed over their heads, but I owed them the truth just the same.

"We still are working to become the Champion, but the Rockets need to be beaten first. I need not just a great team but a loyal one. From here on we can't trust anyone except each other. As a Rocket, we will likely be asked to do things that are…unsavory. We will not cross the line of taking a life, but everything else will become fair game," I gravely intoned.

Understanding began to take hold over them as I continued explaining our future. I braced myself for the next part of my speech.

"Now I will give you all this one chance to leave. Only one. After this, I can't risk you being out in the wild, and I will have to hold you in the PC. At least until Team Rocket is taken out." My ultimatum shocked them as I dropped it on them. A dark glare took over Crum's features. I returned his glare with a resolute stare.

He needed to know how serious I was. This was not what id like to offer to them, but I needed to stand my ground. My future was predicated on the success of this plan. The whole team felt unease. Rarely had I ever had to discipline my Pokemon, and the threat of virtual imprisonment was by far the worst thing I could do to them besides death.

"I know its severe, but we can't have any failures or dissidence," I coldly spoke. "Give it a few minutes to think. Whatever your decision, I'm thankful to have the time I've had with you. It is better to leave now than stay and regret it."

I sat back as the team thought in silence. Crum was seated in a crossed leg position with his eyes closed. He may have forgiven me, but he still needed to come to terms with whether he could go through with my plan. Even Shimmer had settled into a melancholic mood that was mirrored by Pan. The surprise was Blink.

After a few minutes of him looking back and forth between myself and the others, he rose in an audible huff. He padded in front and stared up at me with a firm look. I was curious as he hadn't even seemed to think about the dilemma I put forth. He simply stared at the others in confusion.

Now he stared up at me. As he kept his gaze, I noticed how close to my height he was when I was sitting down. Then he continued to surprise me by force his head into my fist that I was unknowingly clenching.

I let out a breath as he showed deference to me as he lowered his head to me — shock, emotion shock, coursed through my body. I thought Blink would have been deeply against the threat I leveled. Instead, he answered with respect.

Rising from her spot on the ground, Shimmer trotted over. She also gazed me into the eyes. For the first time since I knew her, I thought that something besides playfulness was in her eyes. That notion was quickly quashed as she took a chunk of my hair in her mouth. I swatted her away with a yelp, but I looked back at her with a smile. Not the smartest, but I knew I could depend on her to stick with me unless I went bald maybe.

Pan looked conflicted as she looked between us and Crum, who was still deep in thought. In their short time together, Pan had developed an affection for the newly evolved Fighting type. Whether it was romantic or only admiration, I could not tell. Pan eventually rose to her feet and began to walk towards me. She settled into my lap and licked my hand. A simple gesture that spoke volumes to me.

Time stretched on as we waited for Crum. The embers in the fire began to die as the night stretched on. Shimmer became restless and wandered into the dark to amuse herself. Pan had fallen asleep while Blink had started to pace in front of me. He was more impatient during the wait than I was.

By the time the moon had reached its full height, Crum had opened his eyes. He rose to his full height that towered over me even when standing. He wore the Limiter now, but that didn't stop him from sending up clouds of dust.

Now he stood above looking down at me with lidded eyes. I held my composure despite the whirlwind of emotions I was experiencing. Slowly he crouched in front to stare me eye to eye. We sat there for what felt like an eternity. I dared not to blink. I felt tears in my eyes when Crum exhaled from his nose forcefully.

Then he placed his hand on my shoulder. When he did this before as a Machop, there was an undeniable strength to him. Now as Machoke it was so much more. Not just raw power, but a discipline that wasn't there as a Machop. There was always the threat of injury with a Machop, but with a Machoke I realized was that if I was hurt, it was because he desired to cause me pain. I refused to turn away.

Finally, a smile split his now reptilian face. He leaned his head to mine, and we touched foreheads. We sat connected for a few seconds before Crum let out a deep rumble.

Somehow without actual words, I understood his entire intent with his nonverbal communication. We would be together. No matter what we faced. Even when we failed, we would be together.

I raised my hand and placed it on his shoulder. The assuring smile on Crum's smile was replaced with a victorious smirk. My own soon mirrored his.

Now is when the real journey begins.