Author's Note
Generic title is generic. :P
Also, I apologize for not updating. I got back into World of Warcraft and League of Legends so I barely played Pokemon. I actually created a whole new Pokemon game today and wrote up this whole chapter in about two hours. Which basically means I spent two hours in Accumula Town in-game.

Chapter Four: Team Plasma and N

Touko punched her fists in the air, heading through the grass that trailed across the middle of her calves due to its length. Snivy was back out of her Pokeball and riding atop her shoulder to glance around. The day was warmer now, threatening to reach heated levels, although the breeze in the air kept in in control. The two followed the path now and then, occasionally straying off into the grass to see if they'd run into any Pokemon.
"Snivy?" The Grass Snake Pokemon crawled up onto Touko's head and stood up to try and peer across the treetops.

"What is it Snivy? Do you hear a Pokemon?" Touko picked up her Pokemon and looked at her, though she wiggled from her trainer's grasp and began scampering towards the direction she was previously looking. "Snivy! Wait!" Running after the Pokemon, Touko caught up to her near the shore of water. Laughing, Touko descended the few steps to the shore and stood besides Snivy. The water lapped peacefully at the sand it left behind and Snivy dipped a foot in and grinned. "So you heard the water I'm guessing?" Snivy nodded and Touko laughed, picking up the green Pokemon. "Maybe one day we can see what it leads to, I've only ever been out so far swimming with Cheren and Bianca."

"Sniv." Touko smiled at the Pokemon and placed her back on her shoulder.

"No more running off like that or else you'll have to go back in the Pokeball!" Snivy shook her head no ferociously and Touko scratched beneath her chin and grinned. "Then we have a deal?"

"Sniv-sniv."

...

Touko and Snivy were eventually able to find some Pokemon, even some who found her and attacked. Most Pokemon she found were Patrat although they did stumble upon some wild Lillipups. Snivy was able to handle them all of pretty well and her trainer made sure she was feeling good before each battle. It had slipped Touko's mind of the competition for she was so focused on training with Snivy. She remembered though as she reached the end of the route and saw Cheren waving her over and Bianca standing not too far behind.
"Hey, are you going to compare with us? Both Bianca and I have two Pokemon." Cheren told her as she approached and Touko forced a smile.

"Yeah, I guess." Touko sheepishly headed over to Bianca who was grinning, ignoring Cheren's confused look.

"How about it? Want to compare?" Bianca grinned, skipping the rest of the way and joined by Cheren. Touko nodded, picking out Snivy's Pokeball and holding it up.

"What? What? What? You only have Snivy! If you don't catch any Pokemon, won't Snivy get lonely?" Bianca frowned and Touko looked up at Snivy who was looking down at her. Snivy smiled lightly and twisted down to lick Touko's forehead. Touko laughed and looked back at Bianca.

"Eventually she'll get friends but right now we're loving each other's company."

"Well, if you check your Pokedex, you'll see how many Pokemon you've found and how many you've caught. Which will probably be like one and one for you Touko." Cheren laughed and Touko rolled her eyes at him but laughed as well. "Anyway, I'm heading to Accumula Town, the Professor is probably waiting." Just as Touko finished his sentence, the three friend's Xtransceivers went off. Picking it up, the Professor was on the other line.

"Hello! How is everyone doing? You and your Pokemon are getting along great now, right?" She smiled, saluting them as she came on screen.

"Oh! Professor!" Bianca said, her late response getting a chuckle out of Cheren.

"Right now, I'm in front of Accumula Town's Pokemon Center! I'd like to show you around so hurry on over, everyone!" She casted a glance into Cheren's screen but smiled.

"Okay! The Pokemon Center, right!" Bianca tapped her head, as if making a mental note.

"Alright! See you!" The Professor's screen went black and the trio closed their own Xtransceivers.

"Well, I'm going on ahead." Cheren waved towards Touko and Bianca hurried after Cheren as they headed into the town.

"How about it, let's go see what the Professor has to show us." Smiling, Touko rubbed Snivy's cheek and headed into the town.

...

In town, Touko saw the Professor waiting outside the Pokemon Center but she also noticed Cheren standing over on a grassy uplift in the middle of town. Heading over to him, Touko gave him a confused look as he noticed her and he shrugged at her. "I think that was the Professor waiting in front of the Pokemon Center. I know all about the Pokemon Center already, I just want to battle! Real battles are the best way to become stronger, you know!" Finding him useless as he went back to looking for a trainer, Touko made her way over to the Professor.

...

"Ah! Touko! There you are! Traveling with your Pokemon is truly one of the joys of being a Trainer! Please, follow me. I'd like to show you the most important place for a Trainer to know!" The Professor disappeared into the sliding doors with a red Pokeball icon on the front and Touko followed swiftly after. Inside the Pokemon Center, the walls were red and white and plush seats as well as booths lined the walls. One area was dedicated to a dining area and the other side was a small booth which was selling supplies. In the middle was a counter with a pink-haired lady standing behind it, accompanied by an Audino. To the left of her was a doorway that led into the back where rooms were kept for those staying overnight. Another door led outside which opened up into the area where battles could take place. Finally, over near that area were a few booths where people could make phone calls or issue trades or get Pokemon from storage. "This is a Pokemon Center!" Professor Juniper threw her hands up and grinned, and Touko grinned with her. She already knew everything about a Pokemon Center but she didn't want to ruin Juniper's fun. "Don't you feel better as soon as you step through the door?" She smiled and closed her eyes, breathing in. "Anyway, let's start your tour!" Leading her over to the pink-haired lady, Bianca suddenly noticed them as she stood by the counter.

"Wait for me!"

Nodding, the Professor waited for Bianca until she began. "A Pokemon Center is a truly incredible place! Do you know why?" Without allowing an answer, she continued. "Because your Pokemon can be healed and it's absolutely free!" The pink-haired lady behind the desk laughed. "A Pokemon Center is a Trainer's best friend! Why don't you try it out Touko?"

"Oh, yeah, sure." Turning to the lady, she smiled and shook hands with Touko.

"I'm Nurse Joy, my sisters and I run all the Centers in the Unova Region. We all look alike but we're also different." She winked and looked up at Snivy. "What a strong Pokemon you have, how about if we allow her to heal? Could you return her?"

"Sure." Touko lifted her Pokemon's ball and Snivy pressed the button to put her back in. Handing it over to Nurse Joy, she watched.

"This will only take a moment." Placing the ball on a special device behind her, she activated it. The machine let out a soft hum and rays of light beamed beneath the Pokeball and finally a small tune played to signal it finished. "All done! Your Snivy is all healed up! Have a nice day."

"Thanks." Touko smiled and placed the ball back in her holding slot and followed the Professor from the counter.

Leading them to the phone machines, Professor Juniper placed one hand on it. "This is called a PC and it has a variety of uses. You can make calls on it and check up on the status of your Pokemon. You can also send over Pokemon that you've caught and trade for different ones. You can only ever have six Pokemon on you, but I'll keep the rest safe at the lab."

"How do we know if we're over six then?" Bianca bit her lip and Touko had to grin at the obvious answer, though she said nothing.

"The Pokeball's middle will glow red and it won't grow, that means it's locked and can only be unlocked when you replace one of your current Pokemon. Anywho, moving on!" Leading them over to the Pokemart, Professor Juniper used one hand to show off the counter. "You can buy all sorts of useful items and I suggest checking it out sometime! As for me, I've got to head back to Nuvema Town. If you happen to head over to Striaton City, stop in to see my friend Fennel. She's an old friend and I'm sure she'll help you on your way! Best of luck! I hope your journey will prove to be an adventure of a lifetime!" Smiling, the Professor waved at them before heading out.

"Ooh! What should I buy?! Potions... Pokeballs... I want them all!" Bianca was preoccupied with shopping so Touko didn't bother her and instead headed outside.

Upon stepping outside, Touko was alerted to a large crowd gathering around and two people having small talk right by her.

"Something's going on in the plaza!"

"Well, let's have a little look-see."

Watching them walk off, Touko followed them to the large crowd that was gathering. Finding Cheren right away, she immediately headed over to him.

...

"Touko, come here a sec." He pulled her up to the front of the line and pointed to the long line of men and women wearing dull grey outfits with a blue P on the middle. They also had banners set up that were similar to the outfits. What stood out most was the tall man with green hair and a golden and black cape on that flowed to the ground. He had a red eye patch covering one eye and he began to speak once the crowd was focused on him.

"I am Ghetsis. I am here representing Team Plasma." He spoke calmly and confidently, his one eye travelling across the crowd. Chills were sent up Touko's spine and she frowned at him.

"I don't like him, he gives off a weird vibe." Touko whispered to Cheren, who nodded but focused on Ghetsis as he spoke. "Today, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to talk to you about Pokemon liberation."

He was met with many, "Huh?"s and, "What?"s from the onlooking crowd.

"I'm sure most of you believe that we humans and Pokemon are partners that have come to live together because we want and need each other." He let that sink in and his eyes roamed across the crowd again. "However... is that really the truth? Have you ever considered that perhaps we humans... only assume that this is the truth?" He paced the grassy uplift he stood on, coming to stand in the middle. "Pokemon are subject to the selfish commands of Trainers... They get pushed around when they are our "partners" at work..." He paused once more. "Can anyone say with confidence that there is no truth in what I'm saying?" This time as he paused he was met with different responses.

"No way."

"Yikes!"

"I don't know..."

Touko frowned and forced herself to not yell that he was not speaking the truth. He paced once more, this time coming to stand directly in front of Cheren and Touko. "Now, ladies and gentlemen, Pokemon are different from humans. They are living beings that contain unknown potential. They are living beings from whom we humans have much to learn." His eyes scanned the crowd once more, landing on Touko's bright blue ones. Holding eye contact with her caused her to shrink away as his red eye patch seemed to stare right into her. "Tell me, what is our responsibility toward these wonderful beings called Pokemon?" He continued to hold Touko's gaze, even through the crowd's comments.

"What could it be?"

"Liberation?"

Touko could've sworn she saw him smirk but he broke eye contact as quick as he had begun it, pacing to the middle of the uplift. It felt as though a weight was released from Touko as soon as he broke that eye contact. "That's right! We must liberate the Pokemon! Then, and only then, will humans and Pokemon truly be equals!" He smiled this time for sure, watching the crowd murmur. "Everyone, I end my words here today by imploring you to consider the relationship between people and Pokemon... and the correct way to proceed. We sincerely appreciate your attention." At his words, the soldiers behind him picked up the banners on either side and parted so Ghetsis could get in the middle of them. When he was in position, the group moved scarily in sync and filed off into the town. As he left, one older man spoke up towards the other side of the crowd.

"About that speech... what do you think we should do?"
"Liberate Pokemon?! That's not even possible!" A younger gentleman, perhaps younger than Cheren by a few years spat out. With time to think, the crowd parted ways murmuring about Pokemon liberation.

"Well, he sure was a talker." Cheren concluded, placing his hands on his hips.

"I agree, he was quite... compelling and a good speaker." Touko agreed, shivering at the thought of his eyes boring into her.

"His speech was good but terrible in meaning! Liberate Pokemon? Hah! He's a wackjob." Cheren snuffed, turning his nose up in disgust. Touko laughed at Cheren and reached for Snivy's Pokeball, picking it out and holding it close to her face. Was Snivy really a slave?

...

"Your Pokemon..." Touko looked up, seeing a tall man who looked to be a couple years older than her standing in front of her. He wore a black and white cap that sat atop a crown of green hair that went down his back but was bunched together in a very low and messy ponytail. He wore a black undershirt that was covered by a white 3/4th sleeved shirt that opened up to reveal some of his black shirt. He wore beige pants and darker green strappy shoes. On one wrist, the stranger had a black and white band and on the other hand he wore three golden bands. Hanging from his neck was a necklace that was a bit long and seemed to have a charm of the Earth on it. Hanging from his pocket was a cube that appeared to be golden with black squares in the middle on all sides. "Just now, it was saying..."

Cheren suddenly spoke up from his thoughts and peered at the man. "Slow down there Liepard. You talk too fast." He held up his hand and made a face at the man. "And what's this about Pokemon... talking?" Cheren laughed matter-of-factly over his shoulder and smirked. "That's an odd thing to say."

"Yes, they're talking... oh. Then you two can't hear it, either..." He trailed off but kept his eyes locked on Touko, though he mentioned both of them. "How sad..." Suddenly he smiled, bowing politely. "My name is N."

"Cheren, and this is Touko." Cheren introduced himself and held out his hand for a shake. Touko just lightly curtseyed, N's emerald eyes seemed so mysterious and they drew her in. "We were asked to complete the Pokedex, and we just left on our journey. My main goal is to become the Champion, though." Cheren held on his hand still but N ignored it and shrugged. Cheren frowned and lowered his hand, crossing his arms.

"The Pokedex, eh? So... you're going to confine many, many Pokemn in Pokeballs for that, then. I'm a Trainer too, but I can't help wondering... are Pokemon really happy that way?" He rubbed his chin thoughtfully, finally giving Touko what she thought was wiggle room. It was short-lived though as N quickly closed the gap between him and Touko in one stride. Touko's breath hitched and she looked up and her sapphire eyes locked with emerald eyes. The gap was so close between them that Touko was certain she could feel his heartbeat. His breath was cool and smelled of slight mint, cooling down her hot cheeks and filling her senses. It was almost dizzying and Touko leaned back but had to look up as she could not tear her eyes from N's. Cheren had stepped back, also seeming shocked at N's approach. "Well, Touko, is it? Let me hear your Pokemon's voice again!" In the instant he was next to her, he was gone and a battling distance away. It left Touko feeling empty and she blinked her eyes furiously to clear her mind and focus. Lifting her eyes, she saw that N had called out his Purrloin and was awaiting her move.

...

"Oh, a battle!" "Snivy! Battle time!" Throwing up her Pokemon's ball, she caught it deftly as a red light formed into the shape of Snivy. The Grass Snake Pokemon was curled into a ball and uncurled just as she hit the ground.

"Now! Snivy use Vine Whip!" Her Pokemon burst into action and the vines flew from her collar.

"Purrloin, dodge my friend." Purrloin moved but Snivy was fast and caught the Pokemon with one vine and slammed him down with the other. "Purrloin, growl!" Recovering, the spotted Pokemon let out a growl and Snivy shuddered.

"Vine Whip once more!" Touko attempted to clear her mind and focus on the battle, but her mind was still a bit foggy of her encounter with N. His calm voice and composure was alluring but she shook her head and focused on Snivy. "I battle for her!"

"Dodge." Purrloin was ready this time, easily dodging the two vines that threatened to trip him up. "Slash." Purrloin flipped in air, using the vine to push off and score a direct hit on Snivy. The Grass Snake Pokemon cried out and stumbled back, her vines returning to her.

"Snivy! Hang in there! Tackle!" Clearing her head with a rub by her paw, she narrowed her eyes at Purrloin.

"Purrloin, you use Scratch once more." The two Pokemon headed in for each other, each scoring a hit on one another and causing damage.

"Vine Whip now Snivy!" Planting her feet, Snivy turned sharply and scored two direct hits on the exposed backside of Purrloin. Screeching, Purrloin growled angrily and faced front towards Snivy. He lowered to his feet and flicked his tail as he waited for a command.

"Tackle!"

"Scratch!"

The two Pokemon charged each other again, though Touko had something in mind. "Double that with Vine Whip Snivy!" She listened, pulling out her vines and hitting Purrloin to daze him and hit him with a tackle. Purrloin was temporarily blinded but he still managed to land a scratch on Snivy's shoulder. "Vine Whip! Quick!" Snivy held her shoulder in pain but nodded, her vines coming to life and hurtling towards the downed Purrloin, slamming once into the Pokemon. As the dust settled, Touko could see that Purrloin was completely downed and unable to get up. She had won! "Yes! Great job Snivy!" Touko grinned and held out her arms as Snivy ran and jumped into them. "You were amazing." Touko kissed her forehead and hugged the green Pokemon softly to not hurt her. Looking over at N, she could see he was staring down at the ground, deep in thought with Purrloin tucked away.

"I never expected to hear a Pokemon say such things..." Mumbling to himself, he took a few steps to stand in front of Touko and Cheren. "As long as Pokemon are confined in Pokeballs... Pokemon will never become perfect beings." He suddenly looked urgently up at Touko, his eyes shining with determination. "I have to change the world for Pokemon, because they're my friends." Suddenly he turned without another word, disappearing into the townspeople crowd. Touko wanted to call out to him, he couldn't leave so soon. She couldn't explain why but he couldn't, but she stopped as she heard Cheren hmph besides her.

...

"Huh... strange guy."

"Yeah, he was strange but he had a strong Purrloin." Touko looked down at her Pokemon and rubbed the resting Pokemon's shoulder gently.

"But I'm not going to worry about it. Trainers and Pokemon help each other out!" Cheren exaggerated, using his arms to show the big picture. Sighing, he looked up at Touko. "Listen, I'm going on ahead. I want to battle the Gym Leader in the next town - Striaton City. Aim to battle Gym Leader after Gym Leader. The best way for a Trainer to become stronger is to challenge the Gym Leaders in each area. See you around Touko. Take care." He patted his friend's shoulder and smiled, disappearing into the crowd as well. Touko let everything sink in for a moment, allowing the people to flow past her like a stone in a river. Finally, she smiled down at the sleeping Snivy, returning her to her Pokeball.

"I'll let you rest up and we can have a lunch break, then we can continue." Touko headed to the Pokemon Center, but some part of her mind was still focused on that mysterious stranger, N.