Location: Unknown
Time: 0142 Hours (1:42 AM)
A couple was walking on the street. They were laughing about something. They went down an alley and heard something clatter.
"What was that?" The girl asked.
"I don't know. Stay behind me." The boy said. They approached the source of the sound and gasped at what they saw. Right before them, unmoving, was a Pokémon Performer. The couple looked and saw a pool of blood underneath the Performer.
"Oh my, Arceus!" The boy said.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The girl screamed.
A Performing Impostor
Location: Lumiose City, Sycamore Pokémon Lab
Time: 0230 Hours (2:30 AM)
Stan was looking at emails from different people and businesses before seeing a cup of coffee get set down beside him. He looked and saw a Chespin standing with a Froakie and Fennekin. Stan took a sip of the coffee and sighed in content. The three smiled and Stan looked to see the others sleeping.
After thwarting a world domination plot by Lysander, and charging him with 51 counts of First Degree Murder, our heroes are taking some time to sleep at Professor Sycamore's Lab in Lumiose City. Yet, Stan is wide awake and doing paperwork. Does he even have a Pokémon yet?
Stan went back to his emails before feeling his phone vibrate. He pulled it out and saw he was getting a call from Lumiose City Dispatch.
'Why would they be calling this late at night?' Stan thought. He then answered the call and held the phone to his ear.
"Reagan." He said. Stan listened closely before he hung up and sighed.
'I need to find an easier mode of transportation.' Stan thought. He then quietly got up before silently leaving. Unbeknownst to him, the three Pokémon that were with him had followed him. Stan looked around and saw Latios, who looked at him curiously.
"I need to get to an alleyway here in the city. You should be able to tell which one from the air." Stan whispered. Latios nodded and motioned for Stan to hop on. Stan did just that and Latios silently took off before going into the air. When he got high enough, Latios saw emergency lights and flew to them. He then landed and Stan got off. He approached a tapped off alleyway and saw LCPD standing guard.
"This alley is a crime scene. No one can enter." An Officer said.
"Five-0." Stan said, showing his badge. The Officer nodded and let Stan through. He got on scene and looked around, taking in information as he went. When he got to where the body was, he saw two Pokémon Rangers and someone in a jumpsuit. He approached and the Rangers looked at him.
"Welcome to the party! Got your invitation?" One asked.
"Right here." Stan said, showing his badge.
"Forgive my partner. It's her first case." The second said.
"Mind introducing yourselves?" Stan asked.
"My name is Marcus Russo," the second said, "this is my partner, Summer. Pokémon Ranger Corps Investigations."
"Stan Reagan," Stan introduced, "Five-0. What do ya got?"
"Not sure. A young couple came down this alley," Marcus said, "heard something clatter, found the victim here."
"Anything suspicious?" Stan asked.
"Not really. The ME won't even let us touch the body." Summer said.
"Because I don't trust you guys! I've heard rumors of you Rangers tampering with the bodies of victims." The ME said.
"What about me? Can I touch the body?" Stan asked.
"Just wear some gloves." The ME said. Stan pulled out some latex gloves and put them on before kneeling down and looking for an ID. That's when he found something disturbing. He saw something around the facial area and pulled on it, causing the face to stretch. Stan then pulled further and revealed the face to be a mask, and the victim's face was gone.
"Holy shit!" Marcus said.
"I think I'm gonna be sick." Summer said.
"The victim's face was removed post mortem. Most likely using a scalpel." The ME said. Stan turned the victim over and revealed a stab wound to the back.
"Found our cause of death." Stan said.
"Seems to be a stab wound. I can determine more once I perform an autopsy." The ME said.
"Run their DNA. See if we can get an ID from that." Stan said.
"Of course." The ME said.
"Is that couple still here?" Stan asked.
"They're being treated for shock. They're at the ambulance." Marcus said. Stan nodded and left the alleyway, going to the ambulance and taking his gloves off. He saw the young couple and saw that the girl was shaking.
'Poor girl.' Stan thought. Stan gently approached and the two looked at him.
"Are you a Pokémon Ranger?" The boy asked.
"No. My name is Stan Reagan." Stan said.
"Y-you're with Five-0. T-that new agency that stopped Lysander, r-right?" The girl asked.
"I am." Stan said.
"Are you investigating what happened to that performer?" The boy asked.
"Possibly. The PRC needs to conduct an investigation to ensure no Pokémon were involved. Could you tell me your names?" Stan asked.
"My name is Calem. This is my girlfriend, Selina." The boy said.
"Selina? Did you recognize the victim?" Stan asked.
"N-no, I never saw them before." Selina said.
"The outfit she wore was similar to that of a Pokémon Performer. Selina was going to sign up for the Showcase happening here in Lumiose City." Calem said.
"I don't know about it now." Selina said.
"Just take some time. Since this happened," Stan said, "they might postpone it. After all, there's a chance the victim was a Performer, and they were killed for their position."
"Are you saying there might be an impostor among the performers?!" Calem asked. Stan looked to the sky to see the sun come up.
"That's what I need to figure out." Stan spoke.
Location: Sycamore Pokémon Lab
Time: 0740 Hours (7:40 AM)
Stan was looking over the reports from the case as the Chespin, Froakie, and Fennekin joined him.
"Hmm?" Stan asked. Fennekin had a solemn look and jumped into his lap, curling into a ball and falling asleep. Froakie and Chespin both looked at the photos and Stan knew.
'They followed me to the scene.' He thought. He looked behind to see the others starting to wake up. Professor Sycamore then walked in and approached Stan.
"Seems they've taken a shine to you." He said.
"I have no idea why." Stan spoke.
"Regardless," Professor Sycamore said, "I feel like you should take them with you." That caught Stan off-guard.
"All three?!" He asked.
"They seem to be enthralled with you. Plus," Professor Sycamore said, "they each have a use for law enforcement. Chespin can keep suspects secure with its vines, Froakie can track suspects without being noticed, and Fennekin can be used to help calm victims and witnesses. Get what I'm saying?"
"It wouldn't be fair to take all three of them." Stan said. Professor Sycamore gave a smile before looking to Froakie and Fennekin.
"Then how about you take Froakie and Fennekin?" He asked.
"Why the two of them?" Stan asked.
"Because Fennekin seems to enjoy your company," Professor Sycamore said, "and Froakie seems interested in your work. Speaking of, I take it you caught another case last night?"
"I did," Stan said, "and these three followed me to the scene."
"They did what?!" A voice asked. Stan looked to see Professor Cerise and Fennekin woke up, giving a glare. It then jumped up to Froakie and Chespin as Stan stood up.
"What brings you here, Professor Cerise?" Stan asked.
"I'm here to babysit my grandchild. I have a lab in Shalour City now." Professor Cerise responded.
"Your home is in Vermillion City." Stan said.
"I go where my research leads me." Professor Cerise said.
"Fennekin Fenne!" Fennekin spoke. Professor Cerise looked at Fennekin in confusion.
"Huh?" He asked.
"Fennekin's upset you woke it up. It's not in a good mood right now." Stan said.
"Oh. Sorry, Fennekin." Professor Cerise said. Fennekin simply stuck its nose up and Froakie placed a calming hand on her. [Author's Note: Is Fennekin a girl? I can't tell just by looking.]
"! Fenne/Froak!" Fennekin and Froakie exclaimed, nodding their heads. [Author's Note: Huh. That was just a guess.]
"What was THAT about?" Professor Cerise asked.
"I have no clue." Professor Sycamore said.
"What's the REAL reason you're here?" Stan asked. Professor Cerise sighed before holding out a paper.
"This was published last night." Professor Cerise said. Stan took it and went on alert.
'What the?!' Stan thought.
"LCPD needs to see this." Stan said.
"I'll wake the others. We'll meet you there." Professor Sycamore said. Stan looked at Chespin, Fennekin, and Froakie.
"You three need to stay here." He said. Chespin gave a worried look whereas Fennekin and Froakie understood and nodded. Stan then left and Chespin started to run after him, but Froakie stopped Chespin.
"Chespin Chespin!" Chespin spoke.
"Froakie! Fro Froakie Froak!" Froakie said.
"Chespin?" Chespin asked. Fennekin looked at the doors and saw everyone else run out.
"We'll be back!" Professor Sycamore said. He then closed the door and locked it. Fennekin looked at the photos before seeing they were all jumbled up.
"Fennekin." She spoke. Froakie then got an idea and jumped down, going to an empty room before pushing out a white board.
"Che?" Chespin asked. Froakie then grabbed the pictures and put them on the white board in order. Fennekin's eyes lit up in awe and Froakie smiled. Chespin couldn't understand anything.
Location: Lumiose City Police Headquarters
Time: 0830 Hours (8:30 PM)
Stan walked in and approached the counter.
"They have a room set up for you." The receptionist said.
"Thank you." Stan said. He was let in the back and approached a room that had two Officers outside it. One saluted while the other opened the door. Stan walked in and set the paper on a projector as Professor Cerise walked in with the others. The LCPD Top Brass joined them.
"Everyone take a seat." Stan said. They all sat down, if they could, and looked at Stan.
"What's this about, Stan?" Goh asked.
"Professor Cerise got this last night in a published article." Stan said. He turned the projector on and everyone gasped. It was a picture of the Kalos Queen, Aria, tied up with rope while her Pokémon are tortured.
"That's Aria!" Clemont said.
"What's going on?!" Bonnie asked.
"I have reason to believe that Aria was abducted." Professor Cerise said.
"This is much more serious than an abduction. Her Delphox and Aromatisse are being tortured." Stan said.
"What article was this taken out of?" The LCPD Chief of Department asked.
"An article on how trainers and Pokémon share each others pain." Professor Cerise said. That caused Ash to glare.
"Team Rocket!" He said. Everyone gasped and Stan gave a knowing look.
"Time to see if they're as tough as they say." Stan said.
"We're gonna need some gear." Clemont said.
"And badges!" Bonnie said. Squishy then made itself known and looked at Bonnie.
' I believe the Pokémon Ranger Corps has badges made for us.' It spoke.
"Does this mean that all those roots are gone?" Ash asked.
' Yes, Ash. All the roots have been destroyed. Greninja said he'd be happy to join your team again.' Squishy said. Ash smiled and nodded.
"I'd be happy to have him." He said.
"Enough idle chatter. We have more important things to worry about." Stan said. Everyone nodded and Stan looked to the photo.
'Where could this have been taken?' He thought. He then saw something in the background and looked to the Chief of Detectives.
"Can I use your computer?" Stan asked.
"You see something, don't you?" Professor Cerise asked.
"Yeah," Stan said, "something in the background. It's too dark to see it."
"I say we get a hold of Viola, the Santalune City Gym Leader. She's an expert photographer." Clemont said.
"Do it." Stan said.
[Moments later….]
"I'm turning the brightness up now." Viola said. She then used a computer that had the photo on it and increased the background brightness. Stan gave a glare when he saw what was there.
"I knew it." He said.
"That's the Viridian City Gym!" Ash said.
"Let's go!" Stan said.
Location: Viridian City Gym
Time: 1129 Hours (11:29 AM)
Several police vehicles pulled up outside the gym and heavily armed Officers jumped out. Another vehicle pulled up with Viridian City Police SWAT. More vehicles showed up and Stan walked out with the others. Everyone was wearing ballistic vests, but only Stan had a pistol. However, Stan was handed a M4A1 Carbine with Blue Dot Sight, Foregrip, and Tactical Light attachments. Everyone gathered around him and paid attention.
"Listen well. Our primary objective here is to rescue the Kalos Queen," Stan explained, "and apprehend Team Rocket. VCPD SWAT has point. We'll follow behind. The rest of you will form a perimeter around the Gym. Whose car is closest to the entrance?"
"Mine is." An Officer said.
"Anything goes wrong in there," Stan said, "your car is the Hospital/Pokémon Center car."
"Understood!" The Officer said. Stan then racked the rifle he held and looked serious.
"Let's keep the peace." He said.
"Get to your positions!" The SWAT Commander said. Everyone got in position and the door to the Gym was checked. It was unlocked.
"Door's unlocked." The lead man said.
"Move in! Check your corners!" The Commander said. They cleared the lobby before moving towards the doors to the battlefield. The door was cracked. The lead man looked in and saw Giovanni looking at Aria. Her Pokémon were beaten and bruised, one of them held their side. Matori was there as well, along with several other Team Rocket Admins. The lead man looked back to everyone else and nodded.
"Stack up." Stan whispered. They did just that and one of the SWAT members rolled in flashbangs before closing the door slightly.
"Hmm?" Matori asked. She looked and saw the flashbangs go near them, but looked confused. That was when a Team Rocket Admin gasped.
"FLASHBANGS!" They yelled. However, it was too late. The flashbangs went off and everyone was taken off guard.
"GO! GO! GO!" The SWAT Commander yelled. The door was kicked open and everyone charged in.
"POLICE! DON'T MOVE!" An Officer yelled.
"FEDERAL AGENTS!" Stan yelled.
"ON THE GROUND! NOW!" Another Officer yelled. Someone tried to run out, but Ash noticed them.
"Runner! Pikachu, use Thunderbolt on them! Go easy on it! We don't them in the hospital!" Ash said.
"Pika! PIIIIKAAAAAAAAACHUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!" Pikachu exclaimed. A Thunderbolt then struck the person and they tensed up and fell down. Two Officers ran to the person and put handcuffs on them. Serena ran to Aria and knelt down to her, removing a gag that was on Aria's mouth.
"Are you alright?" Serena asked.
"Don't worry about me! Worry about my Pokémon!" Aria said. Bonnie ran to Aria's Pokémon and removed the restraints from them.
"Let's get them to the Pokémon Center immediately!" Bonnie said.
"EMS can check Aria on the way." Serena said.
"It'll take hours for EMS to get here!" An Officer said. Stan then gave a look.
"Then we take them ourselves." He said.
"Prisoner Transport is on scene," the SWAT Commander said, "and Pokémon Rangers have some members in custody. This was all organized by you guys. These collars are yours."
"No," Stan said, "this was a joint effort. We'll stay with the Kalos Queen and her Pokémon! You guys make sure Team Rocket doesn't escape!"
"Yes, sir!" The SWAT Commander said.
"Let's go!" Stan said.
Location: Viridian City Pokémon Center
Time: 1220 Hours (12:20 PM)
Bonnie sat with Aria as a Paramedic checked her over. Meanwhile, Serena looked around before seeing a familiar trio approach. Serena stood in front of them with a serious look.
"How did you three not get arrested?" She asked. The others looked and Stan drew his pistol and aimed. Standing before everyone were the four members of Team Rocket that no one had expected to see: Jessie, James, Meowth, and Wobbufett. They each looked solemn.
"Relax. We're no longer part of Team Rocket. We've given that up." James said. Stan glared.
"Why don't I believe that?" He asked.
"We have copies of our resignations. We were going to hand them in," Meowth spoke, "but we happened upon your raid. Safe to say we aren't in Team Rocket anymore." They each held out copies of their resignations and Stan looked at them. He holstered his pistol and approached them.
"Why are you here?" Stan asked.
"I'm here as a fellow Performer. To think Giovanni would stoop so low." Jessie said.
"Do you know their conditions?" James asked.
"We don't know anything yet." Aria said. The Paramedic then stood up.
"All you had was a sprained ankle and a broken wrist. You should take a few days for them to heal properly." They said.
"Thank you." Aria said. The Paramedic then left and Stan looked at Aria.
"I should be thankful you weren't seriously hurt," he spoke, "but at what cost did you obtain those injuries? Giovanni has quite a few charges racked up against him, and we can surely add this to the list." A sound then rang out and everyone looked to the doors to the back of the Pokémon Center. Nurse Joy and a Chansey walked out, both solemn. They approached Aria, who looked at them.
"How are they?" Aria asked. Nurse Joy took a deep breath before releasing it.
"Delphox suffered several broken ribs," Nurse Joy said, "and had some minor internal bleeding, along with a broken wrist and dislocated shoulder. I had also found signs of… assault… during my treatment. I took a sample for the police to test. I'm afraid Delphox won't be performing for quite some time."
"What about Aromatisse? Is it alright?!" Aria asked. Nurse Joy looked even more solemn and Stan knew.
'No….' Stan thought.
"The damage to Aromatisse was more severe than Delphox. She had massive internal bleeding," Nurse Joy said, "and had a subdural hematoma."
"A what?" Bonnie asked.
"Aromatisse had swelling on its brain." Clemont said.
"Does that mean Aromatisse is in a coma?" Serena asked. Stan looked down before looking to Aria.
'Guess I should tell her my experience.' Stan thought. Chansey was holding back tears and Meowth knew.
"No…." Meowth spoke.
"Huh? Did you say something, Meowth?" Jessie asked. The atmosphere suddenly grew tense and Aria picked up on it.
"Nurse Joy? Is Aromatisse gonna be okay?" Aria asked. Nurse Joy took in a deep breath before releasing it.
"I'm sorry to say this." Nurse Joy spoke.
"Say what?" Bonnie asked.
"The damage to Aromatisse was extensive. We did all we could," Nurse Joy said, "but… it wasn't enough." Bonnie gasped and Serena looked to Aria. Aria then shed a tear before shaking her head.
"No…. N-no! This is… it's not real!" Aria said. Chansey then walked forward and held out a ribbon that Aromatisse wore. Aria gasped silently before shedding more tears.
"I'm sorry," Nurse Joy said, "but… we lost it during treatment." Aria shook her head.
"No! It's not true! It's not TRUE!" Aria said. Nurse Joy then held out Aromatisse's hat, which was severely damaged. Aria looked at Nurse Joy, who had shed a single tear.
"I'm so sorry that I couldn't save it." Nurse Joy spoke, choking up. Aria then knew it was the truth, and the tears couldn't stop flowing.
"No. No! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Aria screamed. Aria fell forwards and Stan caught her in an embrace. Aria sobbed loudly and gripped Stan tight. Stan gently rubbed her back in comfort as she cried. Serena then joined in on the hug, as did Chloe.
"I know your pain. I once felt it myself." Stan whispered.
"How could you POSSIBLY know how I feel?! You don't even HAVE a Pokémon! You haven't had one your whole life!" Aria said.
"I lost one, too!" Stan said. Everyone got quiet as Aria felt Stan's grip tighten.
"W-what?" Aria asked.
"I was only 10 years old. I hadn't gone on a journey of my own because my father was the Lumiose City Police Commissioner. It was 'Bring a Pokémon to School Day.' I didn't have one of my own," Stan said, "so my father let me take a Growlithe that belonged to the Police. It was a Growlithe that had grown attached to me. That day, I was studying and doing the homework assigned to me during a free period I had. That was when another student had brought a gun to school and decided to shoot several students and Pokémon. I called my dad immediately, and he sent Officers to the school. The student had massacred almost everyone, except for me and Growlithe. We were almost to the entrance of the school, almost to freedom, when I had tripped and sprained my ankle. Growlithe was dragging me the rest of the way and we heard sirens. We were almost out, when the armed student appeared before us. They aimed directly at me. I was embracing the inevitable, when Growlithe jumped in front and took the bullet for me." Aria gasped and looked at Stan. She saw tears flowing from his eyes.
'He was a survivor of that?!' She thought.
"Officers rushed in," Stan said, "and they apprehended the student. I crawled to Growlithe and I tried to save it! I tried to save it like it saved me! I was in tears! My father trusted me with a Police Pokémon! Growlithe had licked my tears away and nuzzled me before it… before it…." Aria gripped Stan tighter and clenched her eyes. Clemont's eyes widened in shock. Bonnie looked at him, confused.
"What is it, Clemont?" She asked.
"I knew his name sounded familiar. He's the sole survivor of the Lumiose Elementary Massacre." Clemont said. Serena gasped and looked at Stan.
"You survived THAT?!" Jessie asked.
"You poor soul!" James said.
"How do you two know about it?" Clemont asked.
"It was the deadliest shooting known throughout the region! One of our undercovers heard about it and told Giovanni" Jessie said, "who in turn told us! I never expected THAT would be the reason you lost your Trainer's License, though."
"I was 10. Still a minor." Stan said. Aria then dried her tears before drying Stan's.
"No more tears from you. Not unless they're tears of joy." Aria said.
"I wish that was possible." Stan said.
Location: Grand Kalosian Resort
Time: 1420 Hours (2:40 PM)
Stan stood outside a doorway as Aria unlocked a room.
"Thanks for accompanying me back to my hotel room." She said, opening the door.
"It's no problem." Stan said.
"Would you like to come in?" Aria asked.
"No thanks. I'm on a different case." Stan said.
"A different case?" Aria asked. Stan looked solemn.
"I can't divulge any information. It's still ongoing." He spoke.
"Seriously? You have your hands full, don't you?" Aria asked.
"That's an understatement." Stan said. He went to leave, but was stopped by Aria's Delphox.
'Huh?' Stan thought.
"Delphox Del!" It spoke.
"Delphox! Let him go!" Aria said. Stan then got a message on his phone and looked at it. His blood ran cold when he looked at it and Delphox knew it meant bad news.
"Delphox?" It asked, giving a slight glare. Stan looked at Aria before getting serious.
"What is said never leaves the room." He spoke. Delphox and Aria were both stunned and Stan walked in. Delphox followed and closed the door.
"Why did you get so serious all of a sudden?" Aria asked.
"Early this morning," Stan said, "a body was found, believed to belong to a Performer. However, the face of the victim was gone."
"What?!" Aria asked.
"I just got word from the PRC. They said all the performers showed up for practice." Stan said.
"That's impossible! There should be one missing!" Aria said.
"Precisely. An impostor has infiltrated the Showcase!" Stan said.
Location: Sycamore Pokémon Lab
Time: 1537 Hours (3:37 PM)
"What?! An impostor?!" Serena asked.
"That's right. The Pokémon Rangers passed the case off to me. Since no Pokémon were involved with this crime," Stan said, "they have no reason to investigate this. However, they didn't want LCPD investigating. They would just go to the press with it and cause a panic. That's when they turned to me."
"Did they run a DNA test?" Goh asked.
"The victim's DNA wasn't in the system," Stan said, "and their prints were removed using acid."
"! Seriously?!" Chloe asked.
"They made sure the victim couldn't be identified. Now I have to figure out who their target is." Stan said.
"No, you don't." Ash said.
"Huh?" Bonnie asked. Everyone looked at Ash as he walked to Stan and stood by him, facing everyone.
"WE have to figure out who their target is. This is something you can't do alone, Stan." Ash said.
"He's right! You need help with this!" Lillie said.
"I can't ask this of you guys. Chloe and Goh have a child," Stan said, "Serena's gonna be performing in the Showcase, Ash plans on challenging the Kalos League again, and Lillie has to get back to the Alola Region with her friends and Professors Kukui and Burnett! I know you guys said you'd join my agency, but I can't let you work this case! It's too dangerous for you!"
"Then what do you call going after Lysander, huh?!" Chloe asked. Stan went to counter, but grit his teeth and walked off.
"Running away?" A voice asked.
"Shove it." Stan said, walking outside. That stunned everyone. Ash looked to Chloe, a look of worry on his face.
"Why did you bring that up?" Ash asked.
"That case brought us together. It's what led to us JOINING Five-0! Him turning around and saying it's too dangerous after working a case like that?! It's hypocritical!" Chloe said.
"Did you forget the Lumiose Elementary Massacre?" That voice asked. They all looked and saw Jessie, James, Meowth, and Wobbufett.
"The suspect in that case was a student." Clemont said.
"There's more to it. I did some digging of my own. Three days before it happened," Meowth said, "a child's body was discovered with no face or prints, and their DNA wasn't in the system." That caught everyone's attention.
"The same as this case." Lana said.
"The Showcase is three days from today. That day also marks the anniversary of the Lumiose Elementary Massacre." Jessie said. Chloe gasped and Serena then understood.
"He thinks it's the same person." Serena spoke. Ash got serious.
"I'm not gonna let Stan take this on alone." He said.
"Neither are we." Meowth said.
"I'm a registered performer under the name 'Jessilee.' I can go in the dressing rooms early and look around." Jessie said.
'I thought something was familiar about her.' Serena and Ash thought.
"I can talk to the other Pokémon there," Meowth said, "figure out who seems suspicious."
"I'll go with you. It'll be faster that way." Serena said.
"I can accompany you both. I'll simply be a bodyguard for 'Jessilee,' and Wobbufett can work alongside me for that." James said.
"Are we seriously doing this behind Stan's back?" Mallow asked.
"Better than standing around doing nothing." Sophocles said. Clemont then got serious.
"Sophocles and I can try and do a reconstruction of what the victim looked like." He spoke. Bonnie then got serious.
"I'll try and see what I can find out from the staff." Bonnie spoke.
"Chloe and I can talk to the other Gym Leaders using her dad's connections," Goh said, "while also keeping this out of the press."
"I'll talk with restaurant and café owners," Mallow said, "see if any Performers acted suspicious while inside."
"I can help with that." Lana said.
"What about you, Ash?" Goh asked. Ash was deep in thought. However, that gave Chloe an idea.
"Hey, Ash? How about you act as SERENA'S bodyguard?" Chloe asked.
"Huh?!" Serena asked, blushing slightly. That's when Goh caught on.
"That's a GREAT idea, Chloe! Ash can make sure Serena stays safe while she looks around, and Pikachu can help him like Wobbufett will for James!" Goh said. Ash never said anything. However, Pikachu got his attention.
"Pikapi?" He asked. Ash didn't say anything. That got everyone's attention, including Serena.
"Huh?" Goh asked.
"Ash? Are you listening?" Chloe asked. Serena walked to Ash and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Is everything alright, Ash?" She asked. Ash then pulled out his phone and dialed a number before putting the call on speaker. It rang for a few minutes before someone answered.
"Reagan." A voice said.
"Stan," Ash spoke, "it's Ash. We formulated a plan."
"I said it's too dangerous." Stan spoke.
"It won't happen again. We won't let it. Especially not me." Ash spoke.
"Huh?" Stan asked.
"I lost my mother in a shooting at a grocery store." Ash spoke. That caught everyone by surprise.
"I heard of that. Shooter used an AK-47 to shoot the place up and kill everyone inside before killing himself with a Colt Peacemaker." Stan said.
"That massacre took not only my mother," Ash said, "but my mother's Pokémon, Mimey."
"Why are you telling me this?" Stan asked.
"Because I made a promise to not let anyone do something out of anger." Ash said. The line went quiet for a bit before Stan sighed.
"You're more boneheaded than a Cubone, you know that?" Stan asked.
"That's nothing compared to what I've been called when it comes to romance." Ash said.
"Dense as a boulder?" Stan asked. Ash tensed up.
"Hey! Who told you?!" Ash asked. Stan chuckled.
"You did. Just now." Stan said.
'How did he do that?!' Serena thought.
"Consider that your first lesson. When questioning someone," Stan said, "they'll always hide something. You need to determine whether the information is accurate with the facts and evidence. It's almost like being a prosecutor, in a way."
"Except we don't reveal the evidence, right?" Bonnie asked.
"Not until the suspect your questioning is in an Interrogation Room." Stan said.
"Where'd you go anyways?" Serena asked.
"Looking at places for sale. Need someplace for a Headquarters, right?" Stan asked.
"So you're taking time to cool off while looking for a necessary thing for us. That's brilliant!" Clemont said.
"I have Aria's cooperation in this, too. She's keeping it out of the press. As the Kalos Queen," Stan said, "she has the right to not perform at any Showcases. Not that she can right now anyways. Regardless, I'm trusting you guys with this. Sigh I have badges for you guys in the room I was using before. We can't get our IDs made until we have a Headquarters. I'm chasing a lead on that right now. Just do me a favor. First sign of trouble you find…."
"Get out before it turns ugly." Ash said.
"Exactly." Stan said.
"We will." Serena said.
"Reagan out." Stan said, hanging up. Bonnie went into the room and saw the Chespin, Froakie, and Fennekin. Chespin was taking a nap, while Froakie and Fennekin were looking at photos. Froakie then pointed something out to Fennekin and Bonnie was stunned.
'They're working on the case, too!' She thought. Bonnie then grabbed the badges and noticed that two were missing. She looked and saw Froakie and Fennekin with them. Bonnie then approached and Fennekin gave a slight glare.
"Did Stan say you could have those badges?" Bonnie asked. Froakie and Fennekin were stunned.
"Kie Froakie Fro!" Froakie said.
"Fennekin! Fen-nekin!" Fennekin said.
"I understand you want to help," Bonnie said, "but those badges aren't yours. Stan had those on reserve for my friends and I. You don't want us to be seen as impostors, do you?" Froakie and Fennekin were stunned. They looked at each other before sighing and holding the badges out.
"Okie/Ekin." They spoke simultaneously, their heads down in shame. Bonnie took the badges from them and gave a soft smile.
"For what it's worth," she spoke, "I think you two made good progress! Keep working the case from here. Leave the rest to us!" Bonnie then turned around and left. Fennekin then strengthened her resolve and looked to Froakie.
"Kin Fennekin." She said. Froakie nodded and they got back to work. As they did that, Bonnie had just finished handing out the badges and Meowth approached.
"He didn't have enough for us, huh?" He asked.
"Well," James said, "we haven't OFFICIALLY joined. We're just giving some help."
"Anyways," Ash said, "to answer your question, Chloe, I planned on that from the start. Process of elimination means I HAVE to do it."
"Huh? Do what?" Chloe asked. Ash looked at her in disbelief.
"What you had suggested I do before I called Stan? Acting as Serena's bodyguard like James will act as Jessie's?" Ash asked. Chloe then remembered and facepalmed.
"How could I forget that?" Chloe asked. Serena looked to Ash and smiled.
"This gives us a chance to catch up." She said.
"Yeah," Ash said, smiling in return, "it does."
Location: Lumiose City Showcase Stage
Time: 1620 Hours (4:20 PM)
Ash, Serena, Jessie, James, Meowth, Wobbufett, and Pikachu approached the stage. Before they could get backstage, they were stopped by someone in a suit.
"Performers only." The person said. Serena and Jessie stepped forward.
"My name is Serena. I'm one of the Performers." Serena spoke.
"I'm also a Performer. Jessilee's the name." Jessie said. The person nodded once.
"Allow the gentlemen to pass, as well. They're our bodyguards." Serena said.
"Bodyguards? You have bodyguards?" The person asked.
"You can't be too careful. You heard what happened to the Kalos Queen, right?" Jessie asked. The person tensed up and nodded.
"My apologies. Go right ahead." They spoke. They got past the person when Bonnie approached. The person stopped her.
"Performers only." They spoke. Bonnie showed her badge.
"Five-0. I need to ask you some questions." She spoke. As she did that, Serena and Jessie looked at each other.
"I'll search on the left." Jessie spoke, her voice having a hushed tone.
"I'll take the right." Serena said, her voice the same.
"I'll get started with the information gathering." Meowth said, his voice in the same tone as Serena and Jessie. The group split up and started looking.
[Meanwhile….]
Stan sighed as he walked down a street. He saw a limo pull up and a window had rolled down.
"You Stan Reagan?" A person asked.
"Who's asking?" Stan asked.
"Aria's manager, Palermo." The person said. Stan looked and stopped walking. The limo stopped beside him.
"What do you want?" He asked.
"Get in and I'll tell you." Palermo said. Stan gave a wary look, but nodded and got in. The limo drove off and Palermo rolled the window up.
"What's this about?" Stan asked.
"No need to be hypervigilant, Stan. Aria explained everything to me. I'm keeping the murder out of the press." Palermo said.
"That's not why you're picking me up in a limo while I was walking down a street." Stan said.
"Aria also told me that you were a survivor of the Lumiose Elementary Massacre," Palermo said, "the SOLE survivor at that, and that you were looking for a Headquarters for Five-0. I can help with that. There's an abandoned military installation that was used by the Pokémon Marine Corps before they combined with the Army, Air Force, and Space Force to form the PRC. It's big enough to work as a training center for Five-0."
"We need a Headquarters before that." Stan said.
"Let me finish. I know of an old building here, in Lumiose City, that could work as a Headquarters." Palermo said.
"What's the catch?" Stan asked. Palermo gave a serious look.
"The building belongs to Aria's father," Palermo said, "and he doesn't approve of his daughter being the Kalos Queen."
"What business does he own?" Stan asked.
"He runs a restaurant here." Palermo said.
"Which one?" Stan asked. Palermo got even more serious.
"A place called 'Guliano's.' It's near Prism Tower. I say we make a deal." Palermo said.
"What kind of deal?" Stan asked.
"You help me and her convince her father that her being Kalos Queen is a good thing," Palermo said, "and I'll make sure you get that building to use as Five-0's Headquarters."
"Is she meeting us there?" Stan asked.
"She already IS there." Palermo said. They stayed silent the rest of the trip over until the limo stops.
"Let's do this." Stan said. He then got out, helping Palermo, and walked towards the doors. He heard a high pitched scream and drew his pistol.
"What the?!" Palermo asked.
"Stay out here!" Stan said. He walked in and went from cover to cover until he saw Aria being held in a tight grip by a man.
"I told you that you're THROUGH being Kalos Queen! THAT'S FINAL!" The man said. Stan saw a knife in the man's hand and glared before leaving cover and aiming.
"Federal agent! Drop the knife!" Stan said. The two looked at him and Aria had a look of gratitude.
"I didn't think the PRC cared about trivial matters." The man said.
"I never said I was with the PRC." Stan said. The man then tensed up and looked as if he saw a ghost.
"What agency?" He asked. Stan revealed his badge and the man gasped.
"Five-0." Stan said. The man dropped the knife and let Aria go, backing away with his hands in front of him. Stan approached Aria and stood in front of her, still aiming at the man. Aria hugged him from behind and started shedding tears.
"Thank you!" She said.
"It's not over yet. I take it this man is your father?" Stan asked.
"Yes," Aria said, sniffling, "he is. He never supported my decisions from the start. He wants me to take over the family business, and become a restaurateur."
"You're an adult. He has no say over what you do." Stan said.
"What do YOU know?!" The man asked.
"Watch your tone. Call off your goons." Stan said. The man tensed up before snapping his fingers once. Several men appeared with weapons holstered.
"How did you know about these guys?" The man asked.
"Because all mafia dons have goons." Stan said. That sent a chill down the man's spine and he was stunned.
[Moments later….]
Several police vehicles surrounded the restaurant as news crews were further off.
"I'm here at 'Guliano's' in Lumiose City where Stan Reagan," a reporter said, "one of the founding agents of Five-0, just captured the head of the Kalosian Mafia along with their top Lieutenants." Stan was watching this from behind a pillar as two Pokémon Rangers appeared before him.
"We don't know how you did it," one said, "but you managed to do what WE couldn't." Stan then held out a file to them and they looked confused.
"What's this?" The other asked.
"The names of Pokémon Rangers who were on the mob's payroll." Stan said. The two Rangers were stunned, but soon smiled.
"How'd you know we were with Internal Affairs?" The first asked, taking the file.
"You have that atmosphere about you." Stan said. He then walked off, but was stopped by Palermo.
"A deal's a deal." She said.
"I never agreed to anything." Stan said. Aria then grabbed Stan and pulled him out into the open. Cameras then surrounded them and Aria cleared her throat.
"To everyone watching," she said, "I have an announcement to make. For the past three days, I was held captive by Team Rocket in Viridian City. Stan and his team rescued me, and managed to save my Delphox. However, due to the severity of its injuries, my Aromatisse had… passed away. He did all of that, and all of this, without a Headquarters. That changes today. As the reigning Kalos Queen, I hereby give Five-0 the keys to an abandoned building that was in my father's name! This was the one building he owned that WASN'T bought using money obtained through illegal methods!"
"Aria! Aria! I'm with the Kalos News Network! How will you be able to perform with only two Pokémon? Your routines require three!" A reporter asked.
"I'll field that one." Stan said. Everyone gasped as Stan went into the view of the cameras.
'Stan?' Aria thought, confused.
"Because of the injuries she had sustained," Stan said, "the injuries of her Delphox, and the… clears throat loss… of her Aromatisse, Aria decided it would be in her best interest that she NOT perform during the Showcase. She needs time to recuperate from her injuries, as does Delphox, and they both need time to mourn the loss of their beloved companion and friend. I never had that luxury after losing my father, LCPD Commissioner Tony Reagan, because his killer was at large. I'm ensuring that Aria gets that. There'll be no further questions for her."
"Agent Reagan," another reporter said, "do you have anything to say regarding the day of the Showcase in Lumiose City?!"
"I'm aware of that day. It's the anniversary of the Lumiose Elementary Massacre." Stan said.
"One more question for Aria! Is the Showcase going to be done in memoriam of the victims who died that day?!" A reporter asked. Aria stood next to Stan and discreetly grabbed his hand.
"It is. The Showcase winner will not be given a Princess Key. The Showcase is merely for fun." Aria said. The reporters murmured and Stan gave a look.
"No further questions." He said. He then led Aria to Palermo's limo and got inside.
[Meanwhile….]
Ash and Serena were inside a dressing room, looking around. The door opened and Ash and Serena looked, seeing Miette.
"Why are you two in MY dressing room?" She asked. Ash showed his badge.
"Close the door." He said. Miette walked inside and closed the door, locking it.
"What we're about to tell you doesn't leave this room." Serena said. Miette looked scared.
"What's going on?" Miette asked.
"Listen," Ash said, "Serena and I both joined Five-0. We're on a case right now, but it has to stay out of the press."
"A body was found early this morning," Serena said, "and their face was COMPLETELY removed, along with their prints. They were dressed like a Performer." Miette then gasped in realization.
"You suspect that one of the Performers here is an impostor." She spoke.
"Precisely." Serena said.
"Have you seen any of the other Performers acting weird or suspicious?" Ash asked.
"Jessilee asked me the same question. Now I see why she did." Miette said.
"She's working with us," Serena said, "but she hasn't been made an agent."
"There IS one Performer that had been acting weird." Miette said.
"How so?" Ash asked.
"She kept staring at everyone with a death glare. I had performed with her before," Miette said, "and she was always nice to everyone. That qualifies as suspicious in my book." Serena and Ash nodded.
"Ours, too." Serena said.
"Can you think of any others?" Ash asked.
"No," Miette said, "I can't. Sorry I can't help further."
"It's fine. You've given us a lead." Ash said.
"Do you know the Performer's name?" Serena asked.
"No," Miette said, "she never said it. She was always announced as 'Jane.' They never said why."
"Now we know." Ash said.
"Thanks for your help, Miette. Sorry we had to snoop around." Serena said.
"It's okay, Serena. I hope you guys find the impostor." Miette said. Serena and Ash then left and saw Pikachu talking with a Buneary, a Ralts, and a Shinx while holding a notepad and pen.
"Pika-kachu-chu. Pikachu Pika-Pika-Pikachu." He said. The three then left and Ash approached.
"Did you find something out, buddy?" Ash asked. Pikachu then showed Ash what was written down, and Ash was stunned.
"What is it?" Serena asked.
"We have to call the others." Ash said. He pulled out his phone and dialed a number. The line rang before it was picked up.
"Hey, Ash. I was just about to call you." A voice said.
"Goh," Ash said, "listen. Serena and I just got a tremendous lead."
"What lead did you get?" Goh asked.
"We just learned the victim's name and the name of their rival." Ash said.
Location: Sycamore Pokémon Lab
Time: 1832 Hours (6:32 PM)
"The victim's name was Sally. She lived in Sandgem Town in Sinnoh." Ash said.
"She travelled from region to region competing in Contests," Serena said, "and was looking to implement them in the Alola and Galar regions."
"Her rival is named Sabrina. She's a Kalos native who lives in Santalune City." Ash said.
"Both Sally AND Sabrina had signed in." Stan said.
"One of them has to be the impostor." Mallow said.
"My money is on Sally." Meowth said.
"Why do you say that?" Lillie asked.
"Jessie and I had encountered Sabrina," James said, "and she said that Sally was acting differently. Almost as if she didn't recognize her. She also said that Sally hid something in her dressing room." Stan got serious and dialed a number.
"It's Stan. I need a search warrant." Stan said.
[Moments later….]
Stan and the others approached Sally's dressing room. Sally was confused.
"Huh?" She asked. The other Performers surrounded them and Stan got serious.
"Are you Sally?" He asked.
"Yes, I am." Sally said. Stan then held up a piece of paper.
"We have a warrant to search your dressing room." Stan said. Serena, Mallow, Lillie, and Lana walked in and started searching. Ash then walked to Sally, who was completely confused..
"What's going on here? Why is my room being searched?!" She asked.
"We have reason to believe you falsified information." Ash said.
"Preposterous!" Sally said.
"How about something a bit more major than identity theft?" Stan asked. Sally gave a glare.
"Ugh! I had NOTHING to do with that body found in the alley this morning!" She said.
"Funny," Stan said, looking stoic, "I never mentioned a body being found." Sally tensed up and the other Performers started muttering.
"Found something!" Serena said. She then walked out holding a scalpel while wearing gloves. Sally looked as if she had seen a ghost.
"That's not all she had." Lana said. Stan and the others looked as Lillie and Mallow held up an AK-47, a Glock 24, and a Smith & Wesson Snub-Nosed Revolver, gloves being on their hands. Lana then saw something and put some gloves on before going to Sally's bag.
"You can't look in there!" Sally said.
"It's in the room," Lana said, "which means it's covered under the warrant." Lana then looked inside before pulling out a knife that was coated in blood.
"What are the chances we run the blood on that knife and on the scalpel," Stan said, getting Sally's attention, "and they match the victim?" Sally turned to run, but was stopped by Chloe and Goh. Lana then pulled out two IDs from the bag and showed them.
"One belongs to the victim," she said, "and the other belongs to her." Bonnie took the IDs from Lana and walked to Stan, showing them to him. Stan looked at them and knew which one belonged to the impostor.
"Beatrice Jones," he spoke, pulling out a set of cuffs, "you're under arrest for the murder of Sally Holmes, possession of firearms without a permit, and conspiracy to commit an act of terrorism." Stan places the cuffs on her and she sighed.
"Call my lawyer." She said.
Location: Grand Kalosian Resort
Time: 2047 Hours (8:47 PM)
Stan was standing in front of Aria, Palermo, and Monsieur Pierre as they were stunned.
"All this because of the Lumiose Elementary Massacre?" Aria asked.
"She felt as if you were cashing in on the tragedy." Stan said.
"We would do no such thing." Palermo said.
"Thank you for telling us, Agent Reagan." Monsieur Pierre said. Stan turned to leave, but was stopped by Aria's Delphox.
"What is it this time? I was too professional?" Stan asked.
"Del-phox! Delphox Del-Delphox!" Delphox said. Stan sighed before looking serious.
"I have no intention of stealing Aria away from you. Just relax and comfort her. She needs you more than me." Stan said. He then moved Delphox out of the way, but was stopped by her Psychic.
"Delphox Del-Delphox Delphox!" She spoke.
"Why are you so persistent on keeping me here?! I'm trying to leave you guys alone! That's what you're wanting, right?!" Stan asked.
"Delphox!" Delphox spoke, glaring.
'Why is she acting like this?!' Stan thought.
' Why are YOU acting like a total douche?!' A voice spoke.
"What the?!" Stan asked, looking around.
' Right in front of you, jackass!' The voice said. Stan looked at Delphox and sighed.
"Great. Now I'm gonna get read the riot act." Stan spoke.
"Delphox," Aria said, "let him go. He needs to get some sleep."
"Don't tell her that. She might knock me out herself." Stan spoke.
' Arceus knows I want to.' Delphox said.
"What's your beef with me, huh?! What did I do to make you so upset with me to the point where you're not letting me leave?!" Stan asked. Delphox pulled Stan closer to strike him, but Aria got in front and caught him. When she did that, she had accidentally KISSED him. Delphox was so stunned by it that her concentration broke and she released her Psychic. Aria set Stan down and broke the kiss. Stan was speechless and he turned to leave, but Aria stopped him this time and looked to Delphox.
"Apologize to him, Delphox." Aria said, blushing deep. Delphox soon went solemn when she realized what Aria had accidentally done to stop her from harming Stan. Delphox lowered her head in shame.
"Delphox Delphox-phox-ox." Delphox spoke.
"I-it's okay. Y-you're still in shock over the… clears throat the 'passing' of your friend. Also," Stan said, "sorry for stealing your first kiss, Aria."
"Not your fault. Delphox is just overprotective." Aria spoke. [Author's Note: That's an understatement.]
"Anyways," Stan said, "I should get going."
"Wait!" Aria said.
"Huh?" Stan asked.
"D-did you eat dinner yet? I can order room service for everyone!" Aria said.
"You're scared to be here alone, aren't you?" Stan asked.
"Terrified." Aria said. Stan sighed.
"I guess I can stay here until you're more comfortable being alone." Stan said. Palermo smiled and gave a nod.
"Very well." She said.
[Later that night….]
Stan was finishing up some paperwork on a PC and had emailed it before logging off and stretching. He started to get up, but stopped as a pair of arms hugged him from behind. Stan looked and saw Aria, smiling happily.
"Is there a reason you're hugging me from behind," Stan asked, "or are you just trying to thank me?" Aria giggled before starting to massage his shoulders.
"I figured you could use a break. You haven't slept." Aria said.
"Because crime doesn't sleep." Stan said.
"Surely you have time to relax, right? The case is over!" Aria said. That's when Stan got a bad feeling.
"Is it, though?" Stan asked. Aria looked confused.
"What do you mean?" She asked.
"What if she wasn't working alone?" Stan asked. A thud was heard outside and Stan glared at the door to the hotel room before getting up and drawing his pistol, aiming it. Aria hid behind Stan as Delphox stood ready to attack.
'Delphox,' Stan thought, 'take Aria and hide. Don't come out of hiding until I say so. No matter what.' Delphox was stunned, but understood. She grabbed Aria and took her to a well hidden spot and Stan stood alone. The handle to the door jiggled and Stan stood ready to act. The door was then kicked open and Stan glared as a group of seven ran in with weapons drawn.
"FEDERAL AGENT! DON'T MOVE!" Stan yelled.
"Go to Hell!" One said. They aimed at Stan, but never had a chance to fire as Stan opened fire on them.
[Moments later….]
Stan was sitting in the back of an ambulance as Ash and the others ran to him.
"Stan!" Ash said. Bonnie then jumped up and hugged Stan tight.
"Thank Arceus you're okay!" She said.
"Can't say that for the ones who tried to hurt Aria." Stan said, looking past them. They all looked and saw seven body bags being wheeled into different ambulances.
"That couldn't have been easy." Clemont said.
"You'd be surprised how easy it was. Though," Stan said, "it does take a toll on the psyche. I might need to talk to a psychologist."
"They'll just prescribe drugs and therapy to hinder your ability to work." Lillie said.
"Really?" Stan asked.
"Yeah. It happened when I was trying to cope with Kiawe's… passing." Lana said.
"So he WAS more than a friend." Stan said. Lana tensed up, but soon sighed in defeat.
"We were… sighs married." Lana said.
"SAY WHAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!" Everyone, sans Stan, asked.
"I knew it." Stan said.
"How could you tell?" Lana asked.
"Other than the tan line on your left ring finger," Stan said, "you wear his necklace."
"Ah!" Lana said.
"You expect me to not watch the Alola League and see Ash become the first ever Alola League Champion? That's the equivalent to Bonnie not spying on Clemont while he's on a date." Stan said.
"Huh?" Lana asked.
"What?" Lillie asked.
"Not happening." Stan said.
"GAK!" Clemont exclaimed, tensing up. Ash busted out laughing and everyone joined in, including Clemont after he relaxed a little.
[Moments later….]
"Thanks for letting me stay here with you, everyone. I think I feel a LOT safer now. Delphox, too." Aria said.
"It's no problem. We get to be friends now!" Mallow said.
'Without a disguise this time for me.' Serena said, remembering back during her journey with Ash. Aria looked at Serena, who merely gave her a wink. Aria smiled and nodded. Bonnie looked around before looking confused.
"Huh? Where's Stan?" She asked. Everyone got quiet and looked, too. Aria looked around before smiling.
"I think I have an idea." She said. She motioned everyone to follow her and went to where the Pokémon could run and play. There, they saw Stan with Delphox.
"Why is Delphox looking like it's gonna attack Stan?" Clemont asked.
"Just watch." Aria said. Delphox then charged at Stan, looking to use her stick as a baton. Stan caught the attack, before giving a strike of his own.
"What is he doing?!" Lillie asked.
"He's gonna hurt her!" Goh said. However, Stan stopped just before her stomach, causing her to look at him in shock. The others sighed in relief.
"He stopped." Lana said.
"All it takes is one punch in the stomach to render you immobile and out of breath. Humans don't know their own strength. You need to keep aware of your surroundings." Stan said. He then caught a Pecha Berry, without looking, and looked at who threw it. It was a Garchomp, and it didn't look happy.
"Garchomp Gar-gar!" It said.
"Delphox Del-Delphox. Phox Delphox!" Delphox spoke. Garchomp gave a glare before charging at a fast speed. Stan gave a glare of his own before pushing Delphox out of harm's way and stopping Garchomp's charge by flipping Garchomp onto it's back before putting his knee on its throat.
"Gar?!" Garchomp asked.
"You gonna calm down?" Stan asked. Garchomp nodded and Stan released it. Garchomp looked at Stan in shock before getting up. It smiled and nodded, showing respect. Delphox then approached Stan and nodded, holding her stick up. Stan then pulled out his baton, extending it, and nodded. Everyone was stunned as the two worked on baton strikes. Garchomp even brought out a training dummy for Delphox to practice her strikes on.
"Delphox! Delphox! Delphox!" Delphox spoke. She went for a head strike, but stopped.
"Nice save. While using a baton," Stan said, "you need to avoid hitting the head. Always aim for the arms and legs." Delphox nodded and went back to practicing her strikes. Ash then understood.
"He's training her so she can better protect Aria." He spoke. Everyone was stunned, but Aria simply smiled. Stan then looked at Delphox and nodded.
"Put your stick away." Stan said. Delphox complied and Stan closed his baton before putting it away. Stan then gave a nod and Delphox smiled.
"Delphox Delphox-ox-ox." She said.
"That was only the basics." Stan said. Delphox nodded in understanding before giving a smile, showing respect and gratitude. Stan then turned around and saw everyone. Aria looked at Stan and smiled.
"Glad to know you harbor no resentment towards Delphox." She said.
"Why would I?" Stan asked.
"Because she tried to attack you." Aria said.
"She was only being protective of you. That," Stan said, "and she saw you grab my hand while watching the news. She forgot that it was a difficult time for you, and you needed strength." Aria blushed and looked at Delphox.
"Y-you saw that, huh?" Aria asked.
"She understands everything now." Stan said.
"That's good." Aria said.
A mysterious case now comes to a close! However, what's next for Stan and our heroes? Will Delphox still be protective of Aria? What's in store for Jessie, James, Meowth, and Wobbufett now that Team Rocket is no more? Will Stan EVER get a Pokémon?! All these questions and more will be answered, as the journey continues!
Aria approached Stan before taking his hand in hers.
"Strength wasn't the ONLY reason I held your hand." She said.
"Huh? What do you mean?" Stan asked. Aria blushed deep before looking into Stan's eyes.
"W-well…. I also held it because… I…. I think you're kinda cute." Aria said.
"Are you feeling okay? Your face is red." Stan spoke, showing concern. Aria giggled a bit before kissing Stan on the cheek.
"Stan," Aria said, "I know we just met, but… would you like to… get dinner sometime? Just the two of us? As a date?" Stan was stoic for a bit, and everyone was confused. However, the realization hit everyone and their eyes widened.
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHH?!" Everyone, sans Aria, asked.
[ To Be Continued….]
Stay tuned!