The Gin Haze

"Because sometimes all you want to do is forget. With war looming on the horizon, some of us have more reason to want to forget than others. The next generation of Pokémon trainers, what kind of world are they to inherit?" Warning! War stories, dark, gore, sex and real life. This is what it takes to survive in the new war-torn era.

Chapter 10 – Sleepless in Slateport pt 1

8-8


As we're getting off the boat, I feel Haze snarking in his head. Instead of being thankful for all the free froyo, instead of being happy we made some great contacts—and even good friends in Jack and Dezzy—he's probably mutely complaining about this being the most emotionally charged boat ride of his life.

Well, anyway, I ignore him in favour of taking in the sights. This is my first time to Slateport City, and I love it!

The trees everywhere I look, the smiling and happy people, the unique architecture—that looks like fricking egg shells sticking out of the ground! "Ooh, is that the Oceanic Museum?" I ask, curious.

"Seriously? Given your track records, I figured the battle tent is where you'd want to go," Adam teases. I stick my tongue out at him. "Gin, how could you! I can never show my face in this city again!"

I groan, rolling my eyes up to the heavens.

"Anyway," daddy cuts in. "We've rented a villa for the coming three nights. There's enough space in the back yard for a few of you to train, but not nearly everyone. And we're taking turns cooking. It isn't fair that Mina and Myron end up cooking all the time."

"Aw, it's alright, dad. We don't mind," Myron argues.

"No, it's not alright. Harrisons are world renowned for our cooking skills. And if only you two practice, no one else will be able to survive on their own."

"You'll have to schedule us in for some other time. Lils and I are booked for tomorrow's contest. And the day after's as well!" Samantha coos, she and Lillian going utterly airheaded on us. Oh well, at least they're happy about it. "So we call dibs on the back yard!"

"Whatevs," Adam teases, acting like a flamboyant gay guy just to get on their nerves. I laugh, shaking my head at their antics.

"Alright, so who's up for tonight?" I ask, mostly wondering if Haze and I need to take ours out to dinner.

"How about you and Haze?" mom suggests. "I feel like French cuisine."

"Sure," we agree, shrugging. We share a look, smirking. We've been doing that a lot lately, haven't we.

"Mina, Myron. You two mind coming shopping with us so we don't goof on Mrs Harrison's no-gos?" Haze asks.

"Sure," the twins agree, beaming at his thoughtfulness. I hug Haze's arm, glad he is the man that he is.

8-8


After dropping everyone—and essentially everything—at the villa, we head out. Haze and I have our backpacks and a few shopping bags mom borrowed us, but luckily Slateport isn't too big—unlike Lilycove.

So we head down the paved sidewalks, enjoying the verdant city as we stroll along. There aren't any courts here, but there are plenty of posters about the battle tent and the daily contests, so I'm not too surprised. What is somewhat surprising, is the lack of people walking around with their Pokémons.

Sure, there's a decent crowd, but we're the only ones with our Pokémon out—Haze and I. Pizzy and Rocky are on their leashes, so no one gives us any super funny looks. It's Blue Moon and Queen, I think. Seeing the Golducks walking side by side, with Queen holding her son like a toddler, must be disconcerting for them—if their constant staring is any indication.

I don't understand it, but to each their own.

We make it to the supermarket, finding it's actually a kind of mini-mall in one building. There are stalls all over the place selling souvenirs and dolls and clothes and accessories for Pokémons. The works, and then some.

"What time does everything close?" I ask, curious if we have enough time to look around.

"They're already packing up for the day, I'd bet another half hour at best," Myron says. "Haze, you already told us what you want. Mina and I can get the ingredients. So you two look around, see if there's something you like."

"Alright, thanks," Haze agrees. I offer them the shopping bags, grabbing Haze and dragging him along. We go to the clothing stand, looking at the fashionable stuff they have for Pokémon. There's choice in all sizes, from Psyduck's to Rhyhorn's sizes. There's even cute jackets and waistcoats and ribbons.

Nothing we want, but I still go through most of it to make sure.

We head over to the knick-knacks stand, finding a bunch of stuff we're never going to need. Key chains that look like some Pokémon I've never heard of, Wailmer pales, Sunflora watering cans. Junk mostly, but some of it is cute all the same.

"We should get these," Haze suggests, holding up water bottles. See-through ones that come in an array of colours. Figuring it couldn't hurt, we get twelve of them. The stand worker stuffs them into a bag for us, and I pay, so we head over to the next stand.

A book stand. Interesting as that can be, I've read most of them, even the ones on Pokémon—Haze is such a stickler for details. So we move one to the next one.

"Ohh! You have them with you! How clever, how clever," the stand worker praises, peering at us through the thickest glasses I've yet seen. An elderly woman, older than Mama Jo, leers at our Pokémons like they're the most interesting thing she's ever seen. She's wearing simple jeans and an orange top, with a breeder's apron, her salt and pepper hair tied in a bun and looking more salt than pepper. "What you want this one to learn?" She's pointing at Froyo, which sends my baby careening into my jacket for cover, and peering out to make sure the woman's still at a distance.

"I'm… sorry, what are you talking about?" I ask, trying to be polite.

"I'm a move tutor! I can teach your Pokémon many things! For… a price, of course."

"What's the limit?" I ask, wondering what's really going on. I've never had dealings with Move Tutors, but I know for a fact they wouldn't need to have a stand in some random mini-mall.

"Four moves to each Pokémon! You know the rules, yes!" she answers a little too fast. Uh huh. She thinks we're idiots. Still, fine. Whatever. It's her show.

"So what can you teach?" I press. There's something majorly fishy going on here, I just need her to slip up once.

She crosses her arms. "Punches! And bites!" she announces, making a thinking sound and tapping her chin, like she can't quite remember what else.

"Come now, grandmother," a young woman in a floral sundress chides with amusement in her tone. She hooks a stray black hair behind her ear, her bright red lips smiling at the elder of the pair. "Show them the list."

"The list? Yes, the list!" the old woman grabs a book out of nowhere, slams it onto the empty stall, and pages through it, making loud thinking noises as she goes.

I give Haze a look, narrowing my eyes briefly before rolling them. He nods; he's lost patience with this as well.

"You're Haze of Mossdeep," the younger woman says, her eyes on Haze and me. She smooths her dress as if she's worried about something. "Second in command to Liza and Tate, am I right?"

"I'm also in a bit of a rush," Haze quips, rolling his eyes.

"Of course, of course. Listen, grandmother is in desperate need of money. She's gotten too old, too stiff to work anymore, and I have a family to support," the lady explains, her eyes begging.

"Lemme guess. You're willing to sell me your family secrets for the low, low price of way too much money," he snarks. "Thanks, but I've got enough going on. Let's go, Gin."

Nodding, but studying the old woman anyway, Haze and I lead our group to the next stand. "Ooh! Bags galore!" I exclaim. "Haze, we should get a few."

"Hmm?" he doesn't sound convinced.

"Ilene and Janelle don't have. And Blue Moon and Queen could use one as well, so they'll have what they need for their baby. And what did you guys name your baby anyway?"

"Alright, that makes sense," Haze agrees, completely ignoring my question to Queen. She regards me, almost as if she isn't sure what to make of me, but she certainly doesn't look like she wants to answer me, not yet.

Either way, we go through the bags, finding quite the selection. I pick up a pink and blue backpack, with a Solrock pendant on the zipper. "Ooh, Michelle would love this!"

"Definitely," Haze agrees. I set that one aside, hoping to find something that I think the Beaumonts would like. "Hey, got one with a Honedge pendant." It looks almost like an army camouflage bag, with little pockets scattered all over it. Nothing but buttons and zippers to keep her things perfectly organized. I think Ilene would love that one.

"Perfect," I agree, taking that one from him and putting it with the other one. But there doesn't seem to be one that Janelle would like… until the pinkest of the pinks falls out from under another bag I'm looking at. It's cotton candy pink with the front pouch in the shape of a Luvdisc. It makes even the little girl in me cringe from the cuteness overload. "I… dunno, what do you think about this one?"

"She only likes cute Pokémon, and she's never shown herself to be anything but girly. I say it's a safe bet." I shrug, unsure but trusting his gut instinct. So that one gets put on the pile. We find two simple, bone white ones with one strap.

"Blue Moon, what do you think of this one?" I ask, showing him the bag.

8-8


The cobbled road beneath our feet stretches on for miles, leading only Arceus knows where. I walk beside Haze, checking his emotional and mental state every few strides, just in case. He isn't complaining about it, but I feel his residual distress.

Still, amidst all the bad, the Beautiflies fluttering about are no less enchanting. The Taillows chirping are no less enticing. And the gorgeous Tropiuses grazing together are just as peaceful.

I point them all out one cute scene at a time, letting Haze process that the world is still beautiful. Helping him to ease the aches and pains I infl…

Sigh.

"You okay?" Haze asks, his eyes on me and the focus I've come to expect from his every waking moment centred on me.

"Yeah, just… I'm sorry," I mumble, for the umpteenth time. He smiles, rubbing my lower back. "So, have you considered any other Pokémon?" Best to change the subject. We've talked this to death as is, and neither of us is likely to cave.

"One so far. Natu."

"Hmm?" An odd pick, coming from him.

"It makes sense. Natu could stay on Shamrock's horn while I'm riding, can fly alongside Jade when I'm flying, and can perch on my shoulder," he explains, but I sense something deeper. His eyes dart back and forth, and his shoulders are tense.

Hmm. A Flying-Psychic Type. Maybe I'm just speculating, but… Marion managed to baby him today, and tonight he's considering a Pokémon that she has, and a Pokémon that bridges the gap between them.

Worth monitoring.

Walking along, Froyo keeps flitting about, dancing and humming not seeming to care too much about much of anything. She dashes past me, her kimono sleeve brushing over my shoulder as she wafts over and hovers in front of Haze and Angel.

"Ii?" Froyo noises, tapping Angel to tempt her to play. Angel, however, seems to like where she lays her head—Haze's shoulder, and peering behind him. "Ii?" Froyo tries again.

"It's alright. Angel just needs some time to adjust," I offer, petting Angel and smiling when she looks at me. We've had so many changes so quickly, so it's not like I can blame her for being clingy. "Don't worry, girls. Mina and Myron got plenty of berries and more frozen yoghurt."

"Ii!" the pair of them cheer, Angel jumping up and dancing with Froyo. They start spinning and turning and jumping around.

Haze looks to me, smiling brightly. I was worried when he asked most of his Pokémon to stay in the villa to guard the place. Especially seeing how he'd gotten so used to having Grey with him. But, it seems like he's starting to get used to the new normal.

"It looks good on you, Hazel Laurant," I tease, biting my lip nervously. I don't really understand it, how it ties my insides in knots and leaves me breathless. Even now, even with how he slows to let me walk just slightly in front of him.

I slow, turning to see what's on his mind. He stops. I stop as well, a million questions on the tip of my tongue.

Our eyes meet.

You're the only one I'll ever want.

His words echo through me, crowding out whatever was just on my mind. His lips curl upwards, his face smoothens as he drinks me in.

You're my Gin. I can't through the day without you.

I don't know what I did to deserve him. I always fumble when he needs me most. I'm the only one who's ever hurt him so deeply that he cried in public.

Yet here I stand. Bearing his stripes, holding my head high beside him.

With his eyes on me, and only me.

He takes a step towards me.

Then another.

He's within my reach, my chin tilting upwards slightly so I can gaze into his eyes.

He stands, unmoving.

I reach upwards, wrapping my arms around his shoulders.

Warmth wraps around my waist, pulling me into him, into his warmth, into his world.

I find my head lain against his chest.

My chest rakes against his with my every breath.

In and out, eliciting sensations I've never felt before.

His heart beats for me, steady and strong.

The scent of his sweat fills me.

The scent of him.

Soft and strong.

Eroding my rough edges.

In this moment,

all I feel,

all I am,

all of me,

is his for the taking.

All I ask.

All I desire.

Is that he be mine.

I pull back, not wanting the moment to end, but needing something more.

I don't get very far, before I see him leaning in.

Breath shallows.

My heart races.

Throbbing in my rib cage like drums.

He closes his eyes.

And he waits.

He's so close to me.

His breath smells of raspberries.

So warm on my face.

The distance, minimal though it is, grates on me.

I need him.

Every part of him.

So I claim him.

My lips claim his.

My fingers comb through his hair and pull him deeper into me.

The soft sweetness of him fills me as we kiss, over and over again, until at last I no longer know where we are.

Until I no longer care where we are.

I feel his arousal against my tummy, rock hard and throbbing with each heartbeat.

He pulls back, blushing furiously and already apologizing. Words. Words I cannot process or care for.

I've not had my fill of him. I tug as I lean into his embrace again. I steal another kiss, needier than the last.

I moan, throaty and primal, as the warmth in the pit of my tummy starts sinking lower.

Knowing that he feels as aroused as I does things to me. Bad things to me.

A longing I've never known fills me, takes over me, driving me to want him in the worst way.

His kiss is needier now, as well. His hands seeking, his grip growing softer and deeper.

Up and down my back, I feel him touching me, exploring me.

Every touch stokes a flame; one threatening to consume me.

"Hey, guys?"

One last kiss. Just one last kiss.

I squeeze Haze a little, breathing a heavy sigh as he nibbles on my lip.

"Guys. Seriously. Jerron's coming," Myron warns.

Sigh. I snuggle up to Haze, breathing him in.

"Haze, look," Jerron announces just how much of a dick he truly is. Still a few strides away, and already being an ass. "Everyone knows you two have the hots for each other. But could you at least make it official before you go flaunting my little sister like a common—"

"Finish that statement," Haze intones, his whole body tense.

"You know I'm—"

"Jerron," Haze cuts in again. "I don't care if you approve. I don't care if you like me or not. But disrespect Gin, and I will break your jaw. Clear?"

"And if you go knock her up? Who's disrespecting her then?" Jerron challenges, puffing out his chest as if he's not afraid.

"Condoms. Contraceptives, both hormonal or otherwise. Spermicides. Celebacy. All legit options Gin and I would have to discuss. And none of them are any of your fucking business." I tug Haze's chin so he's looking at me so he can see me smiling. He quiets down, but he's no less tense. "Is there something you need?" Haze turns back to my idiot brother, his eyes blank.

Figuring it couldn't hurt, I lay my head on Haze's chest, my arms once again wrapper around his shoulders and my fingers combing through his hair. He tries to fight it for a whole second before I feel his arm around my waist again.

"That's none of your concern," Jerron tries.

I snort, not turning to him. "We all know about your Tinder hook-ups, you know," I snipe. "Haze is nothing like you."

"Every man—"

"Jerron." I pull back, turning towards him and wrapping Haze's arms around me. "If I find out I'm pregnant tonight, Haze and I would be married by the weekend."

"More like by morning," Haze murmurs for only me to hear, his breath hot on my neck. "Hey, you want a small family, right? Two or three?"

"Yeah," I agree, nodding and blushing. "Two to three years apart. And not before I'm married and at least twenty-four."

"That's fair," he agrees, the last of the tension leaving him. "You wanted to be a stay at home mom the first few years?"

"I don't want someone else raising my babies. So either you or me or we alternate."

"So, we alternate?"

"I'm definitely breastfeeding," I demand, turning to him with half-lidded eyes.

"If it's an option, it's preferable. Hey, you think Adam'd be cool about getting pregs around the same time with us?"

"If he finds someone sweet enough he might," I muse, stabbing his chest with my finger. "But that doesn't change the fact that I'm getting a very traditional wedding. Small, quaint, but—"

"You're gonna make me puke," Jerron complains.

"Point. Game. Match," Haze snipes. "Go on. Your booty call isn't going to be patient forever. And make sure you use a condom, you filthy animal."

Jerron grimaces, refusing to comment as he storms off.

"I'm so gonna be the one to propose," I tease further, kissing Haze.

"You already did." He kisses my nose, that cocky little smirk in his eyes. "Not the most romantic setting, but…"

"True. Damn, if only I had that ring…" Haze's gaze softens, his lips curling upwards. "We should probably head back."

"Yeah. Or you might end up proposing again. I don't know if I have it in me to turn you down again."

8-8


Turning onto the street for the villa, the acorn and maple and cherry blossom trees welcome us. We trot along, the cobbled stone uneven but not unpleasant under our feet. With the sun set, the birds are far less active, but I enjoy the night sky and the twinkling stars all the same.

The other villas are all lit up, their occupants' silhouettes dancing in the curtains as we pass. We're at the end of the street, but we don't mind. The walk is so nice that it's hard to complain about much of anything.

On arrival, I turn to Haze.

"Alright. I'll get started. You two can take over after you've talked," Mina offers, rubbing my arm as she passes me. "Be nice, little sister." I wince. Am I that easy to read?

"I'll give her a hand," Myron says, his eyes studying me. "Ginny. I know where you're going. But Haze isn't the type."

I smile, relaxing a little. "I know," I say, nodding. "But this isn't about Jerron."

"Oh?"

Haze gazes into my eyes for a long moment. "I'm sorry, My, but it really is a private conversation."

"Alright, alright. I'll be in the kitchen if you need me." He waves on his way in, shutting the door behind him.

I reach out, grateful he doesn't hesitate to take my hand. It's just us, Froyo, Angel, Blue Moon, Pizzy, and Rocky—and none of them seem to mind us lingering for a bit.

"I think it's time," I begin, gazing into his eyes to show him I'm serious.

"The Harrison vote?" he asks. I nod. "I thought we were taking it slow."

"We are," I agree, nodding. "This is about letting the family know where we stand. And… well, if we get lucky…?"

"Aww, somebody wants their snuggle Buneary tonight."

"Of course," I agree completely. "I sleep better that way."

"You sure? We've only been official for a day. I haven't even taken you on a romantic type date."

"I'm sure."

"Alright," he agrees, nodding. "We can talk to your parents after we cook?"

"Uh uh. I want to talk to them as soon as we walk in," I insist.

"Ooh. Confident," he teases, smirking. "Alright, let's do this."

Not missing a beat, he takes my hand and we walk into the villa. We take off our shoes at the door, and we make sure all our Pokémon clean their feet before going further—someone left a pack of wipes just for that purpose.

We leave a pile of shoes behind, entering the sitting room that also doubles as an open kitchen. Everyone is mulling about, everyone's Pokémons are mingling and relaxing after a long day. But when Mi and My notice us, when they sport their knowing smiles and nod to mom and daddy, when they stop taking the ingredients out of the bags, laying their elbows on the island and lay their chins on their folded hands…

Everyone stops what they're doing, spying Mi and My, spying daddy's knowing smile and mom's glowing grin. They all focus on us, on how Haze and I walk hand in hand to our parents.

Not a word is breathed, not a noise is made. The Harrisons are together—other than Jerron—and it's quieter than a mouse.

"Mom, daddy," I begin, clearing my throat to chase away the sudden frog. "Haze and I made it official t—" There's a knock on the door, cutting me off.

"I'll get it," Adam says, sounding annoyed. I don't blame him. Whoever that is has the worst possible timing. I hear the door opening behind me. "Jack! Dezzy! Perfect timing!" I groan, rubbing my forehead. "Come in, come in. And please keep your voice down. You're about to witness a long-standing Harrison tradition."

A moment later, the room is eight people richer, and mom asks Mr Laurant and Marion to join them as moderators—already knowing what this is about.

The family and our eight guests huddle around Haze and I. Our guests look confused but intrigued, but my family is all smiles.

"As I was saying. Haze and I made it official today. We are a couple," I begin again, trying to focus on my breathing so I don't start a panic attack. "So we've discussed it, and we feel we are ready for the Harrison vote. As such, I present to you my boyfriend, Haze."

Haze takes a step forward, bowing to mom and daddy. As he straightens up, he steps back to my side, taking my hand again and smiling for me to help me calm down.

"I see. So you and Haze wish to hear the judgement of the Harrisons, to see if we recognize your relationship," daddy says, his tone loud and clear as a bell. "Very well. Seeing as we have guest to bear witness, allow me to explain how this voting system works. I will call out six numbers. One representing that we acknowledge Haze exists, but that we will not recognize your relationship. Two representing that we recognize your relationship, but that we do not belief this will last. Three representing that we are cautiously optimistic, and that we wish you well in your relationship. Four representing that we believe you are good for each other, and that we've high hopes for you as a couple."

Daddy pauses, smiling at us.

"Five representing that you two are as good as married in our eyes, and that Haze is part of the family and may participate in future Harrison votes. And six representing that if you desire to continue this relationship, you might want to do so in secret. We won't accept your relationship, and we won't support your desire in pursuing it. Genevieve, are you certain you wish to hear this now? You know that we will hold nothing back, and if you ask any questions you are not ready to hear the answer to, it will be on your head."

Jack and Dezzy and their groups look around nervously. Obviously they're worried about how this could play out, especially now.

"We understand the implications. And we are ready to hear the unfiltered truth of where Haze and I, as a couple, stand in your eyes," I say, bobbing my head. I turn to Haze, smiling nervously. He kisses me on the cheek, smiling brightly. Obviously he isn't worried in the least.

"Very well. Only Harrisons may vote, so I will ask that all others keep their opinions to themselves for now," daddy explains, his tone solemn. "We will begin now. ONE!"

Everyone looks around, but no one responds.

"TWO!"

Everyone rolls their eyes, as if they wonder why daddy's being all dramatic about this.

"THREE!"

Adam coughs into his hand—a fake cough. I glare at him, but he grins and assures daddy he has nothing to say.

"FOUR!"

Samantha and Lillian share a look. They smile and shake their heads at the same time.

"FIVE!"

"Took you guys long enough," Adam pipes up immediately. "I mean, jeez! You used to drag me into your play weddings! It's about time you took those vows seriously!" I blush, muttering 'idiot' under my breath.

"Well, I used to enjoy watching them play house. Seeing Haze rocking Gin's dolls and trying to shush their cries was too adorable for words!" Amalia gushes, blushing and trying to hide the evidence under her hands. "I'd have to agree with Adam. It's about time you two made it official."

"Hear, hear!" Samantha and Lillian belt out, but only Samantha continues. "You take care of our baby sister, Haze."

Lillian swats her twin. "As if he'd ever hurt her," Lillian says, looking at us with dreamy eyes. "They're like a fairy tale couple, about to embark on their happily ever after."

I roll my eyes, but find myself smiling all the same.

"Mina and I have been waiting for a date for years, you know," Myron teases, beaming at us. "I've even been learning to do wedding cakes. So if you two even consider hiring a caterer, we're disowning you." He winks to show he's kidding—about the disowning thing, at least.

"My, be nice," Mina swats him. "Congrats, guys. And just so you know, I won the pool!" Everyone groans, especially when Mina offers beaming smile sticking out her tongue and making the peace sign.

"I'm so gonna be the flower girl. I call dibs!" Michelle gushes, blushing up a storm and grinning from ear to ear.

"Haze isn't my big bwother?" Aaron asks, confused. He goes running to mom, who scoops him up and plops him onto her lap. "Can he be my big bwother, mommy?"

"Well, seeing as everyone sees them as married, I don't see why not," mom agrees. Her gaze falls on me, "Just keep in mind that getting pregnant before you turn sixteen is not healthy for you." I flush, all feeling in my face lost. "Though I'd rather that you two finish your schooling first."

"That only leaves me," daddy chimes in. "And this vote is officially unanimous. Haze, Genevieve, your siblings have spoken. With the exception of Jerron, per the norm." We all chuckle, amused that Jerron never shows up for these things anyway.

"So," daddy stands offering his hand to mom to ask her to stand as well. "As patriarch and matriarch of the Harrison clan, allow us to state the obvious. From this day forward, Hazel Laurant and Genevieve Harrison are to be seen as a lawfully wedded couple, and will be afforded all rights accordingly. As per the traditions of the Harrison clan, this includes our right to tease the heck out of them by calling them Mr and Mrs Laurant, and demanding that Haze call Dawn and myself mom and dad. This also means, that as of this day, Haze is given full rights as if he were born a Harrison, and his family be taken into the fold."

I turn to Haze, the picturesque blushing bride. His eyes are on me, for only me. Figuring to hell with it, I kiss him full on the lips, getting nothing but cheers and wolf whistles from me… from our family.

8-8


Haze and I are in the kitchen, darting here and there to get this or grab that. Every time he passes me, I feel his hand ghosting over my lower back—I shiver a little each time.

Dezzy and Jack are being entertained by Mina and Myron—though, per the norm, Myron's doing all the talking. I don't really know what they're talking about, but I figure they're getting along given Dezzy still has stars in her eyes and Jack's been smiling for the last five minutes straight.

Still, paying attention to the potatoes I'm pealing is the better option—I don't feel like cutting myself. So I…

I feel Haze's warmth behind me once again, only to be accompanied by his arms slithering around my waist and his cheek smooshed against mine. I lean into him, grateful we can shamelessly do this in from of both our families.

"Those look suspiciously like potatoes," he teases. I roll my eyes, continuing to peel them so we can eat sometime tonight. "You plan on slicing them?"

"I plan on peeling them. The last time I tried slicing potatoes, I almost lost a finger," I remind him. His shoulders shiver, obviously remembering the scene. "So, we're going with—"

His Dex starts vibrating. The sound of an alarm going off accompanies it, which doesn't sit right with me.

Haze pulls back, answering the call. "Laurant, listen. Those Dark Type guys are here. Fifteen of them. Took two hostages. Too much for me and mine to handle. Get your ass over here. Now!"

"Send me your location," Haze demands, already loosening his apron. He looks to Dezzy and Jack, nodding to them. "I'm bringing backup."

I turn, finding Haze already ended the call and is tossing the furled up apron onto the counter. "Guys. Shit hit the fan. Verette and his group is being attacked by those Dark Type guys from the SS Tidal. Fifteen in all. Who's in?"

"I'm coming," Dezzy doesn't even bat an eyelash. Her boys are already pulling out their Pokéballs, ready for a fight.

"You took his number?" Jack asks, rolling his eyes. "I'll never understand nobility." Still, he nods, ready to follow us into this.

"We're coming," Marion demands, grabbing Mr La… dad's hand. I nod, that's essentially all the backup we'll need.

"We're in," Adam, Amalia, Janelle, and Ilene announce. Michelle comes dashing around the island and barrelling into Haze.

"I'm rooting for you, big brother," she says, tears in her eyes. I can tell she wants to come, but she knows she isn't ready for this.

Haze's Dex vibrates again.

Not missing a beat, Haze puts Michelle down, and checks the location. "Got 'em. Ten minutes away. Dad," Haze addresses daddy, "lock this place down. This could be a diversion. We'll call before coming back. And we'll call when we're outside. Assume anyone else is looking for trouble. Everyone else, let's move!"

8-8


We run down the cobbled street, down past the mini-mall from earlier, down to the beach. The night sky is being lit up by Flamethrowers and Lightnings, obviously doing all they can to draw attention to the scene.

There are police cars blocking the entrance to the beach, but no officers to be seen. We duck under the 'do not enter' yellow lines, and we dash off into the dark. Froyo keeps noising to tell us to keep up, hovering some three metres above us to get a vantage point and keep an eye out for trouble.

What we find, there on the beach, is something you only ever see on the news. A picket line of police officers, in riot control gear and those clear plastic shields. They surround a group that looks like it's warring with itself.

"STAND BACK! YOU CAN'T BE HERE!" one of the officers warns, having spotted us.

"Hazel Laurant, second in command to Liza and Tate of Mossdeep Gym! With me are nothing by Gym Trainers! Stand down! We'll handle this!"

"Good! We have two groups up ahead. Jean-Luc Verette and his Ghost Trainers have already engaged an unknown group using pr—"

"We know! He called us! Move!"

We dash passed the picket line, making a perimeter. I can't see much of anything in the dark, though, so I have no idea what is really going on.

"JADE! Tactic Three!" Haze belts out, tossing his Pokéball ahead. His Flygon flies out of her ball, her eyes glowing in the darkness. She dashes ahead, leaving a trail of thuds and smacks and slaps in her wake.

Cries of pain and surprise fill the night.

"Froyo?!" I call for some kind of information. My darling does a nosedive, stopping mere centimetres from my face. She dashes around me, covering my eyes and—

Whoa!

The whole scene lights up. Darkness becomes as clear as daylight, and I can clearly see Jade's jaws wrapped around an Absol's neck, launching her three-pronged tail at a Houndoom's face and knocking him out.

In less than a minute, Jade claws her way through the crowd, leaving only the Dark Type Pokémons unconscious on the sand.

There are cries of distress, from humans—the trainers, I suppose. But they are quickly silenced when Jade starts hissing.

Haze steps forward, his eyes covered by Angel's hands and her eyes glowing red. No doubt she's helping him the same way Froyo's helping me. Haze grabs a five of the Trainers by the arm, helping them to stand and gently shoving them towards us, where it's safe—Jean-Luc chief among them. The Ghost Type Pokémons are recalled, their red glow lighting up the scene.

And last, Haze gets to Jerron and some woman I don't know. They look beat up, and the woman has an obvious bruise covering the left side of her face.

I run to Jerron, taking him by the arm and dragging him back to us.

"Let me be perfectly clear!" Haze announces, his icy tone cutting through the night. "You are in all under arrest! Your Pokémons will be confiscated! Resist and I will use lethal force!"

"We've done nothing wrong!" one of them claims. He looks no different from all the other guys, to be honest.

"Then you have nothing to fear! Cooperate! We will take you to the police station, where we will hear your stories! If you prove innocent? You will be released and your Pokémons returned to you!"

"I said we didn't do anything wrong!"

"Resist again, and I use force!" Haze warns, tensing.

"I am the Gym Leader of Sendgem Town! I am no—"

The man is slammed into the sand, repeatedly. After the third BOFF, he is levitated onto his feet and shook to chase away the sand. "You will place your hands behind your head! And you will not resist when the officers cuff you! Any complaint will be taken as resistance!"

Like a well-oiled machine, the officers storm in, grabbing the Dark Type Trainers by their wrist and cuffing them. Only the 'leader' tries fighting it, but Haze rams his fist into the man's stomach, and he's cuffed before he can catch his breath.

8-8


"Do not speak. I will do all the talking," Haze orders. Amalia, Adam, Ilene, Janelle, and I nod, not questioning him.

We walk down the street, the streetlights and the SLATEPORT PD sign giving the night an eerie glow. We enter the stone building, walking right up to the counter. The police officer stationed there takes one look at Haze and nods, walking around his desk and motioning for us to follow him.

"It's a good thing you arrived when you did," the officer says, leading us to a door before knocking and opening it. "If so much as one of ours had gotten involved, this would have become our jurisdiction. And frankly, getting caught up in this mess is the last thing we need. Jean-Luc and his seniors are being held in Interview Room six. Vance and his rabble are in room two. Jerron Harrison and Florence Saint Helen are in room one. None have been questioned as yet, but the captain demands our investigators, Lieutenants Barrette and DiAngelo bear witness for SPD. That way you don't have to bother with an official report, and we can handle whatever press briefings this will need."

"Acceptable," Haze says. The officer nods, leading us down another corridor where two out of uniform officers are waiting.

"Lieutenants. Haze of Mossdeep and his entourage," the officer says, bowing and seeing himself out.

"I'll get right to the point," Haze intones, glaring at the pair. I narrow my eyes, wondering at the sudden change. "This is under Pokémon League jurisdiction. If either of you turn this into a pissing match, you'll be out on your ass before you can blink. Clear?"

"Crystal," the man offers, nodding. "I'm Lieutenant DiAngelo, this is my partner Lieutenant Barrette. Let me assure you, we want no part in this. We've never tangled with the League before, and we have no intention to start now."

"Good. I am Hazel Laurant, second in command to Liza and Tate of Mossdeep Gym. I will be in charge of this investigation until my superiors say otherwise," Haze says, bobbing his head and being halfway nice, for a change. "Have you made any calls?"

"We have not," Barette assures him, her tone crisp. "All we've done is gotten them in the interview rooms, and we're recording their every move."

"Good. What's currently known?"

"The coast guard called in strange lights on the beach at six-fifteen. They said it looked like an heated battle and wanted to have it checked out. Officer Brown arrived on the scene with her partner Officer Peters. They confirmed the battle, but counted more than a dozen people and even more Pokémon, so they called for backup. They reported Verette's group showing up at six-twenty-two, so we figure they came to investigate as well. Things get out of hand quickly, so we assume there's bad blood between this Vance character and Verette. At six twenty-five Verette makes a call, you guys show up two minutes after our riot corps."

"Then we're looking at the trouble starting between Jerron and Vance. Good. We'll start with Jerron and Ms Saint Helen."

"This way."

We're led to a door at the end of the hall. "Gin and I will take this end. Amalia, you and the others will go with Lieutenant Barrette." Haze is really all business. We nod, so Lieutenant DiAngelo opens the door and we enter.

Jerron is sitting, facing the large mirror, with a brunette I've never met. Ms Saint Helen, no doubt. The bruise on her face is far more pronounced now, in the harsh fluorescent lighting of the cramped room. Jerron's face darkens when he sees us.

"Mouth off. I fucking dare you," Haze barks out.

"What the hell are you even doing here?!"

"That would be my question," Haze snipes. "Do you have any fucking idea the shit you've gone and started?! Kanto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, and Kalos Gym Trainers in a shitstorm that needed riot police to sort out! What the hell am I going to tell your mother about this?! What do I tell her about her shitfaced son has fucked up with this time?!"

"I call bullshit! This ain't Mossdeep, you little shit!"

"No. This is Slateport. Who currently have no Gym Leader. That means the highest ranking Hoenn League recognized Gym Trainer can claim jurisdiction. Unfortunately for you, Jean-Luc called me. So guess what, sunshine! That means you answer to me!"

Jerron grumbles, looking towards the door.

"Now, let me spell this out for you, Jerron. If I don't handle this mess with extreme care, what happened tonight could be the spark Kanto wants to butt into Hoenn affairs. Unless you haven't been paying attention, the last such incident nearly sparked a war between our countries." Jerron blinks back the tears. He knows about all the recent talks of war, and this might well prove to be the straw that breaks the Camerupt's back.

"What happened tonight could have Kalos calling for blood, with the Verette heir being caught up in this. Do you know how vindictive Kalos is when their nobility is threatened by other countries? Let alone with Hearthome Gym already expressing their disdain for Hoenn's butting into Sinnoh's affairs!" A tear steams down his cheek.

"And what happened tonight could have been a hell of a lot worse, if Jack and Dezzy had gotten involved. Or have you forgotten how protective Gym Leaders are of their children?!"

"What do you want me to say?!"

"I want you to stop fucking shit up, Jerron!" Haze bellows, slamming his palms on the hard wooden table. "Like it or don't. But the fact is, you are the eldest son to a former Gym Leader. That comes with a fuckton of responsibility. And you have done nothing but fuck that up for as long as I've known you."

Jerron just sits there, unable to make a comeback. That's new.

"Now. You have until Gin and I come back to get your story straight. I'm going to give you once chance to explain what happened. If I find one hole in it, I turn you over to the SPD and I make you call your mother yourself. So she can hear directly from you how you fucked up." With that, Haze pulls back and escorts me out of the room.

The Lieutenant comes with us, closing the door behind him. I'm too fried to even think straight. I knew Jerron's gotten into trouble a lot, but what does that have to do with uncle Forrester? With Pewter City Gym? With Kanto and Hoenn?

Before I even get to ask a question, the Lieutenant opens another door and Haze escorts me inside.

Jean-Luc and his four Seniors are sitting comfortable, two of them sipping coffee like nothing in the world's the matter.

Haze pulls back a chair, motioning for me to sit. When I plop down, he sits next to me.

"Verette. Let me start by saying you don't need an alibi, you're arrival's already been confirmed after trouble started," Haze begins. "That you called me directly also speaks highly of you wanting this to be handles properly. So, there's nothing you or yours has to worry about."

"We know," Jean-Luc says, confident as ever. Or is that arrogance? "So you need to know what happened, and you'll need your Pokémon to scan my memories for evidence."

"The scan won't be needed. We need to know what happened. When you arrived on the beach, what did you find?"

"Vance himself was battling with Harrison. The lady was cowering behind Harrison, shaking like a leaf. The battle was between Darkrai. And this one was Vance's, I recognized the energy signature. Darkrai was pitted against a Rhyhorn and a Relicanth, but I knew neither of them before tonight. I assumed they're Harrison's. When Vance's boys spotted us, they started shouting about getting revenge for the Tidal incident."

I nod, having figured as much. Those were the guys we threw overboard.

"I thought we could take them, but when Vance called on Darkrai, I wasn't able to cover for my comrades any longer. Even Gengar has trouble keeping up with that one," Jean-Luc continues. "I called you the second Darkrai was ordered to attack us. And I did all I could to keep our Pokémon from getting injured."

"Anything else?"

"Yes. The lady. She has a bruise on her face. It's fresh, from this morning or early this afternoon. Harrison would have been overprotective of her for it."

"I figured," Haze murmurs. "So, in your opinion. Vance and his is responsible for things getting out of hand?"

"Entirely," Jean-Luc agrees, nodding. "They have a history of targeting us. Mother has been crystal clear what she'd do if she ever finds out we start trouble with them."

The Ghost trainers shiver, their eyes wide and lined with fear.

"Thank you," Haze says, moving to stand. "I might come back with a few more questions, but I assure you it is purely asking for confirmation or plausibility for the other parties' stories."

"It's quite alright, Laurant. We've done this song and dance before," Jean-Luc assures him, nodding respectfully.

8-8


"Jerron," Haze intones, sitting down beside me once again.

"Look, Florence got into a spat with her dad. She needed to talk to someone, and she called me. I passed you guys on the way there. She was upset, so I thought a walk on the beach would do her some good. We were talking about her kids and her husband, and how she got that bruise."

Ms Saint Helen bursts into tears, not fighting Jerron when he takes her into his arms. Domestic abuse, no doubt in my mind.

"We walk up and down the beach, no one's around. Then suddenly, on our way back these guys start coming up out of the water. One of them was in a foul mood and ordered his Pokémon to attack us. Florence had a panic attack, so I ordered Rhyhorn to send up his Flamethrower and Lightning up into the sky to call for backup. Relicanth was too busy battling, and I was too busy trying to calm her down. So it just never crossed my mind to call you guys."

I narrow my eyes, seeing where this is going.

"Those Ghost Trainers showed up pretty quickly, so I focused on Florence and let them take over the fight. I was so focused on her, I didn't even realise how bad things had gotten out of hand. But I recognized Jade's handiwork easily enough. I figured that was going to be the end of it, then you show up, acting all smug."

"What Pokémon did that trainer use?"

"A Houndoom. And he kept shouting something about him needing to redeem himself?" Jerron sounds confused, furrowing his brow like that should somehow make sense to him. "I figure he's a newbie in their group, so whoever he lost against must have cut into whatever prestige he'd earned."

I turn to Haze, finding him turning to me at the same time. I knit my brow. He nods.

"And how exactly did Ms Saint Helen get that bruise?" I ask, turning to the brunette. She tenses, tears streaming down her cheeks. "This is a matter of international security, Ms Saint Helen. Would you really cause an incident because of whatever secrets you wish to keep?"

"Please… please…" she begs, shaking her head, no.

"It's alright, Ri. Haze and Ginny won't let anyone hurt you." Jerron soothes, holding her close to him. Even that has no effect.

"If you refuse to cooperate, I will be forced to scan your memories," Haze warns. For some reason, I feel the lieutenant becoming almost hopeful? What have we stumbled into this time?

"No!" she belts out.

"Haze. It isn't her life she fears for. There's another. Someone she cares for. A sibling perhaps?" I muse.

"Lieutenant. For the sake of our investigation, we will need you to take each member of her household into custody. Even the servants if there are any."

"With pleasure," the lieutenant agrees, seeming almost grateful for the order. He exits the room without another word.

"Good. Once the police have brought them in, we'll continue."

8-8


Standing outside of the next room, Haze looks to me. "Good call," he murmurs. I smile, nodding. "Who do you think attacked Jerron?"

"Zack of Slateport," I say, shaking my head in disgust. "He fits the profile."

"Agreed," he murmurs, nodding. "Alright. We'll need a different angle with this group. Vance will claim he was reciprocating our actions on the SS Tidal, but only if he makes the connection between Jerron and you."

"Do we want that?"

"We do. It'll prove him and his incapable as Gym Trainers, and that means they will fall outside of League jurisdiction. SPD can build a case against them, and they'd be charged with aggravated assault."

"Only if they don't throw Zack under the bus," I point out.

"True." He crosses his arms, thinking. "Alright. Let's go."

He opens the door, nothing but silence welcoming us. We enter. The room is far more spacious, and there are fifteen people lined up against the wall, with only one sitting. Vance no doubt.

We sit opposite Vance, Haze digs out his Dex and dials a number, setting it on the table.

"Haze, what's wrong?" uncle Forrester asks, his tone deathly serious.

"My name is Hazel Laurant, second in command to Liza and Tate of Mossdeep Gym. Before me I have Vance, claimant Dark Type Gym Leader that wishes to sink their roots in Sandgem, southern Sinnoh. We are currently in Slateport City Police Department, and there's been an altercation involving your nephew, Jerron Harrison."

Vance winces, having some idea how much of a mess this is going to be. Curiously, Zack fidgets to show he has some inkling as well.

"I'm listening."

"The situation is as follows. Jerron was walking along the beach with a lady friend. Vance's Trainer attacked him, unprovoked, claiming he needed to redeem himself. Jerron's lady friend panicked and that caused him to become defensive of her. He couldn't fend off fifteen attackers solo, so he had his Pokémon send up a flare, so to speak. This drew the attention of both SPD and one Jean-Luc Verette, the son of Fantina Verette of Hearthome Gym, in Sinnoh."

"Fuck," uncle Forrester complains.

"Oh, I assure you that is the extent of Jerron's involvement. None of his Pokémons were injured, and Jerron himself is in good health."

"So why are you calling me?"

"Because Vance claimed to be Leader of Sandgem. And that complicates this beyond what Hoenn can unravel on our own. As such, I wish to hear your input on how we should handle this," Haze explains.

"A sound decision."

"What we are looking at is one of their group, one Zack of Slateport, trying to prove himself. However, in being unable to do so, Vance himself took up the cause. Verette already confirmed that Vance himself was battling your nephew, and the Darkrai he used is one confirmed to be registered to Vance himself. Once Verette got involved, all of Vance's Trainers took up arms, though, once again, Jerron was kept out of this skirmish."

"I see."

They keep going over the details, the Dark Type Trainers becoming more and more uncomfortable as they go. I smirk, liking this tactic.

"At which point, Vance claimed he was the factual Gym Leader of Sandgem. Now, I assure you, Sinnoh's League will be informed without fail. However, given this directly affects your blood, I thought it pertinent to discuss the case with you."

"I understand." The line goes quiet for a long moment. Vance is sweating bullets by this point, understanding that we're talking about three countries' Leagues being involved. "The one that attacked Jerron. I will take that one myself." Zack whimpers, not liking the sound of that. "The rest should be brought to Sinnoh's League for a proper trial."

"It's more complicated than that. You see Verette's family roots are in Kalos. In Lumiose City, just as are mine. That means we're going to have a conference trial to decide their fate."

"That would be true, if either of you plan to start a Gym in Kalos. All they can do as things stand is start a legal battle," uncle counters. "But if Sinnoh were to reject their claim to Gym status? It'd be a League Tribunal without fail."

"Good point. When can we expect you?"

"By morning. I'm already en route."

"I assume I'm to keep that quiet?"

"Obviously."

"Very well. Zack of Slateport will be held by the SPD until you personally come to claim him. I will continue with my investigation into Vance and his party. Thank you for your time."

"No, thank you. And be sure to tell Jerron that Pewter will always have his back."

"I'll do that." Haze ends the call, stowing his Dex. "Now. Vance. You've heard just how thoroughly fucked you are. And you don't have the option of throwing Zack under the bus to salvage your claim to Sinnoh Gym Leader. I'm giving you until morning to get your story straight. And I assure you, both Brock Harrison and Forrester himself will want to speak to you directly."

"I'm ready to talk now," Vance all but begs.

"Oh? So give me the full story."

"Zack did indeed attack out of spite. For that there is no defence. However, I intervened to ensure it was an honourable battle. When Jean-Luc and his lackeys showed up, they attacked us, assuming we were trying to take hostages, and the girl claimed as much, so I am certain."

"Given we could not risk such a smear tactic, I forfeited the battle with Harrison and I challenged Jean-Luc directly. The police arrived shortly after, and we were arrested."

"Why then were all of your Pokémons engaged in battle?" I ask.

"We assumed Jean-Luc called the police, and we refused to go down without a fight."

I nod, knowing all I need to. He's lying through his teeth.

I turn to Haze. "Very well. Other than Zack's involvement with the Harrison incident, there is nothing Hoenn can do. As such, everyone but Zack is to be released, and you will submit yourselves to the League Tribunal in Sinnoh. Should you fail to present yourselves, all of you, you risk fallout on a scale I'm not sure I can put into words."

"We understand."

"No, you don't," Haze snipes. "If you had been trained in a Gym, under a proper Gym Leader, then you would understand. Now, all you understand is you risk losing your claim to Gym status. Sinnoh's League will have my full report by morning. Expect to be contacted, and I will be present in Sinnoh so I do not doubt I will be called to bear witness, along with Jack of Snowpoint and Desmodonna of Veilstone."

"And the Harrisons?" he asks, his eyes lingering on me.

"When that becomes your concern, it will be confirmed or denied. Until then, be warned, Vance. One toe out of line, and we will bring you in again. And next time, it won't be a day's swim."

"I don't understand," Vance claims, his eyes narrowed.

"Pray you never have to," Haze warns, his tone dark. He fishes out his Dex again, pressing a speed dial number.

"Liza. Case six-eight-five-oh-nine-SPD. One Zack of Slateport to be held for Kanto Leader Forrester Harrison of Pewter City. One Vance, claimant Leader of Sandgem, and entourage to present to Sinnoh League on arrival. One Jerron Harrison, innocent of all charges. One Florence Saint Helen, innocent of all charges. One Jean-Luc Verette of Hearthome City and entourage, innocent of all charges and to be commended for swift investigation of questionable altercation. Hoenn's involvement of investigation is at end. Sinnoh League will need a full report. Vance is listening as we speak. Further orders?"

"None. Say hi to Forrester for me." The line goes dead.

I narrow my eyes, wondering just what she means.

"Lieutenant. Other than Zack of Slateport, all present are to be sent on their way. They no doubt have passage to somewhere else booked. You may hold them until they're meant to leave, should you feel it necessary. If they cause any trouble, you may contact myself, Verette, Jack of Snowpoint, or Desmodonna of Veilstone. We will handle them."

With that, Haze and I leave the room.

8-8


"You know, Haze," Lieutenant Barrette begins, grinning, "I like how you work."

"That's nice," Haze and I drone together. We walk over to Jerron's interview room, waving to Jean-Luc as he and his are leaving.

"Hey, Laurant. I've got a drink with your name on it," Jean-Luc says over his shoulder.

"Sounds good. Keep your wits about you, Vance and his will be released eventually."

"Let them try. I've got you on speed dial," he teases, laughter in his tone.

We stop in front of the interview room where Jerron is still waiting. Amalia and the others are waiting for us, questions in their eyes that match my own. This makes as little sense to them as it does to me, it seems.

But before the first questions are fired off, the door opens with a man screaming how he'll burn the city down if they don't let him go. He's trying to wrestle free, and from the harried look on the officer, I can guess this isn't something new. Haze walks up to the man, forcing the officer to stop. Suddenly the man isn't as energetic.

"Any more idle threats?" he asks. The man looks away, unwilling to speak. "I thought so. Cooperate with the officer, or I will be the one to see to your case, personally."

The man nods, meekly allowing himself to be led away by the officer. Not surprisingly, the officer nods to Haze in silent thanks.

With everyt…

A little boy enters with a female officer. A little boy, about two years old, and clearly scared out of his mind. His brown, spiky hair and seemingly closed eyes strike a chord deep within me, but it's his facial structure, his eyebrows, and the energy about him that throws me off.

He looks exactly like Jerron's baby pictures.

"Let me guess," Haze says, motioning the officer and the boy over. "Your name is Forrester."

Feeling drains from my face when the boy bobs his head.

"Alright. Do you want to see your mommy?" Haze asks, offering the boy his hand. The boy nods fervently, tears in his eyes. "Alright. Come on, we're going in to see her, too." Haze opens the door, motioning the officer and the boy in.

"Mommy!" little Forrester cries the second he sees her. He dashes around the table and jumps into her awaiting arms.

"Oh, my little man. Mommy was so worried about you!" Florence kisses and hugs and snuggles the little boy half to death, so grateful he's alright.

"Uh… Ri?" Jerron looks about ready to shit himself. Obviously he realises that resemblance isn't just a coincidence.

"I'm sorry, Jer, I meant to tell you, but father…"

"Just so we're clear," Haze intones. "Forrester is Jerron's son."

"Yes," Florence agrees, tears streaming down her cheek.

8-8

End Chapter 10

8-8


A/N: And there we have part one. Coming up, is a bit more drama, and a lot more weird situations to be in. I hope you guys are enjoying it!