Chapter no.53: Red Envelopes

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[ New Island - Lookout ]

Xavier stood before the massive screen that dominated the room, his eyes fixed on the images flashing across it. He wore the standard black uniform of Team Rocket, complete with the iconic "R" logo emblazoned on his chest. His posture was stoic, his expression blank, as his superior officer grilled him about the excavation of the Team Rocket base ruins.

The room was dimly lit, with only the glow of the screen providing any illumination. The walls were made of metal, giving the room a cold, sterile feel. A faint hum emanated from the various machines that lined the walls, creating a low, constant noise that filled the air.

The officer, a tall, imposing figure, stood at the back of the room, his arms folded across his chest. He wore the same uniform as Xavier, but with a red stripe running down the side of his pants to indicate his higher rank. His face was stern, his gaze unwavering as he questioned Xavier about the excavation.

"So, Xavier," the officer began, his voice echoing through the room, "how did the excavation go? Did you find anything of value?"

Xavier's expression remained unchanged as he replied in a monotone voice, "The excavation was completed before scheduled, sir."

The officer narrowed his eyes, sensing that there was more to Xavier's response than what he was letting on. "And did you find Dr. Fuji's lab?"

Xavier's face contorted slightly as if a long-forgotten memory had suddenly surfaced. "Yes, sir. We found the lab," he answered hesitantly.

The officer leaned forward, his gaze fixed on Xavier's face. "And? What did you find?"

Xavier frowned, his mind racing as he tried to piece together the fragments of his memory. "Everything inside had been destroyed, sir," he finally replied, his voice low and grave.

The officer's eyes widened in surprise. "Destroyed? How is that possible? What about Dr. Fuji's body?"

Xavier hesitated for a moment, his mind struggling to recall the details. "The body of Dr. Fuji was also destroyed, sir. It appeared as if there had been a massive explosion."

The officer's face turned grim as he absorbed this information. He strode forward, his boots clanging against the metal floor. "This is troubling news indeed," he said slowly, his voice filled with concern.

" The Boss isn't going to like this."

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[ Celadon City - Crematorium ]

Green stood outside the Celadon City Crematorium, the building towering above her as she gazed up at the imposing structure. Her eyes were red and swollen, tears streaming down her face. She wore a black dress, the fabric clinging to her form as the wind whipped around her, causing strands of her long brown hair to fly into her face.

She had just said goodbye to her father's corpse as he was sent to the furnace. It felt like a part of her had been ripped away, leaving a gaping hole in her chest. She couldn't believe that she would never see him again.

With a trembling hand, Green pulled out her phone and left a message for her little brother, Silver. "Hey, Silver. It's Green, I found my dad but looks like the universe pulled a joke on me again. My dad is gone, Silver. I ... what do I do now? Silver, let's talk later ok."

As she closed her phone, she sank to her knees, feeling the weight of the loss crush down on her. The sounds of footsteps approached, but she didn't bother to look up as Austin and Yellow appeared beside her. Austin was dressed in a black suit, his tie loosened slightly, while Yellow wore a white dress, her blonde hair cascading in loose waves around her shoulders.

Austin placed a cup of coffee beside Green's leg, his eyes reflecting the pain that he had buried deep inside. Yellow, always the bubbly one, had fallen asleep on Austin's shoulder.

For a while, they sat in silence, the only sounds coming from the occasional rustling of leaves in the wind and the distant hum of traffic. Eventually, Green broke the silence, her voice thick with emotion. "Austin, how did you deal with Raticate dying?"

"I didn't, Green. I never forgot. But I learned that you have to keep moving forward. You have to find a way to honor their memory, to keep them with you always," Austin said, his voice low and steady.

Green nodded, understanding his words, but still feeling the weight of her loss. "But how do you do that? How do you move on?" she asked, her voice shaking with emotion.

Austin placed a hand on her shoulder, the warmth of his touch sending shivers down her spine. "I know it's hard, but I think the thing about grief is that it's not something we can ever fully overcome. We just learn to live with it."

Green looked up at Austin, her eyes filled with confusion. "What do you mean?"

"Well, grief is a process, right? It's not something that happens overnight. We have to go through all the stages, the denial, the anger, the bargaining, the depression before we can reach acceptance," Austin explained, his voice soothing.

Green nodded, but her heart still ached. "But how do we reach acceptance? How do we learn to live with the pain?"

"That's the thing, May. We don't just learn to live with the pain, we learn to live with the memory of the person we lost. We learn to honor their memory and keep them with us in our hearts," Austin replied, a soft smile gracing his lips.

Green looked down at her hands, tears welling up in her eyes. "I don't know if I can do that. It still hurts so much," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"It's okay to hurt, Green. That's a natural part of the process. But just remember, grief is not something to be ashamed of. It's a testament to the love and connection we shared with the person we lost," Austin reassured her, his hand still on her shoulder.

"Thank you, Austin. That means a lot to me," Green said, her voice cracking with emotion.

"Of course, Green. We're all in this together. And remember, it's okay to reach out for help when you need it," Austin said, his eyes sparkling with kindness.

"I know. I just wish it didn't have to be so hard," Green replied, her voice laced with sadness.

"I think that's just the nature of life, Green. It's not always easy, but we can find beauty in the struggle. We can find meaning in the pain," Austin said, his voice filled with hope.

As the sun began to set, they stood up, ready to face the next steps of their journey. Green felt a glimmer of hope, knowing that she had the support of her friends and the memories of her father to guide her forward. She leaned her head on Austin's shoulder, finding comfort in his steady presence as they began to make plans for their next steps.

" What do you plan to do next ?"

" I guess I want to find out where my mother is."

Austin nodded as while he knew Green's parents' location from the manga, this world's green was different so he didn't know if his mother would be there.

" Green,"

" Yeah."

" I think I know of a way to find your mom."

Austin's words permeated through the air and these words would soon come to haunt Austin as he didn't truly know how cruel and fickle this world truly was.

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[ A Weak Later ]

[ Celadon City ]

The metropolis in the heart of the Kanto region was abuzz with rumors of terrorist attacks. The city's residents were on edge, fearing for their safety and the stability of the region. Red lights flashed in every police department, signaling the urgency of the situation. It was no secret that Team Rocket, a notorious criminal organization, had taken root in Kanto, even after the War of Cypher. The citizens of Celadon City and beyond knew all too well the danger that the group posed.

To quell the public's fears, the Ace Squad had been called upon to investigate Team Rocket. The Ace Squad was a name that commanded respect in the world of Pokémon, a name that was synonymous with power, money, and social standing. The squad was divided into two levels, Group A and Group B. The formerly comprised trainers who had won the Indigo League, the pinnacle of success in the world of Pokémon. The latter consisted of trainers who had made it to the Top-4 in the League conferences multiple times, handpicked by the Elite Four to hone their skills and ensure that their talents didn't go to waste.

The Ace Squad had been investigating Team Rocket for years, with little success. Their soldiers were fiercely loyal to their leader, refusing to divulge any information that could incriminate him. Many detectives had come and gone, leaving the Team Rocket file unresolved and the question of who was pulling the strings from the shadows still unanswered.

Looker, a seasoned and audacious detective, was on a mission from the International Police. He had been sent to Celadon City to investigate the Team Rocket file, a high-profile case that required his utmost dedication and skills. Despite the challenges ahead, Looker was excited about the opportunity to prove his worth and have some fun along the way.

As he strolled through the bustling streets of Celadon City, Looker took in the sights and sounds of the vibrant metropolis. He was a keen observer, noting the smallest details in his surroundings. He observed the homeless man on the corner begging for change, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from a nearby café, and the sound of a street performer playing the harmonica. The city was alive with activity, and Looker was eager to explore it all.

His attention was drawn to a woman selling berry juice at a nearby stall. She wore a bright apron with the image of a Bellsprout on it, and her blonde hair was pulled back in a messy bun. She greeted her customers with a warm smile and served them with efficiency and enthusiasm. Looker admired her work ethic and made a mental note of the location for a future visit.

As he continued his walk, Looker witnessed a group of Meowth running down an alleyway, pursued by a burly man wielding a butcher knife. The man was agitated and shouting profanities at the fleeing Pokémon. Looker was tempted to intervene but decided to let them sort it out themselves. He chuckled as the man slipped on a stray sausage and fell to the ground, cursing his luck.

After walking a few more blocks, Looker arrived at a popular restaurant in town. It was recommended by one of his colleagues in the International Police, who was originally from Celadon and claimed it was his favorite spot to eat. The restaurant was bustling with activity, and the aroma of sizzling meats filled the air. Looker was greeted by a friendly waitress who showed him to a table with a view of the bustling streets below.

He ordered a coffee without sugar and waited for the special of the day. As he waited, Looker picked up a newspaper and began reading about the latest happenings in Celadon City. He learned that the city's casino had just reopened after a major renovation, and it was attracting high-end clientele from all over Kanto. Looker was intrigued by the news and made a mental note to visit the casino later.

Just as he was engrossed in his thoughts, he heard a familiar sound. "Croak!" his partner, a Croagunk, called out. Looker looked up and saw his partner pointing towards the Celadon City Gym. He followed Croagunk's gaze and saw a familiar face from the SS. Anne headed towards the gym. Looker's heart raced as he realized the implications of the sighting. This could be a breakthrough in his investigation.

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[ Celadon City Gym ]

Green disguised as Lisa walked down the bustling streets of Celadon City, taking in the sights and sounds of the vibrant town. She had a mission to accomplish, and it required her to enter the Celadon Gym, a massive building that towered above the rest of the city's shops and houses. From the outside, the gym looked more like a fancy boutique than a place to battle Pokémon. The windows were adorned with various bottles of perfume, and the gym's entrance was flanked by two enormous golden statues of Eevee and Leafeon.

Green paused outside the gym, taking in the details of the architecture. The building was made of gleaming white marble, and the floors were made of polished granite. The interior of the gym was just as impressive as the exterior. The walls were lined with glass cases displaying various perfumes and cosmetics, and the floor was covered in plush carpeting.

As Green was about to enter the gym, she noticed an older man lurking outside, peeking into the windows. She watched him for a moment, trying to gauge his intentions, but he seemed harmless enough. However, as soon as he noticed her staring, he gave her a lecherous grin.

"Heheheh, this gym is great!" he said. "It's full of beautiful women!"

Green rolled her eyes, assuming the man was a pervert. "Oi, you pervert!" she exclaimed, startling the old man. "Is there something I can help you with?"

The old man cleared his throat, suddenly nervous. "What can I do for you, miss?"

Green smiled sweetly, pretending to be a shop assistant. "I couldn't help but notice you admiring our perfumes. Is there a particular scent you're interested in?"

The old man's eyes widened as he looked at her. "Well, I, uh..."

Green produced a highly decorated bottle from her pocket. "This is our most popular fragrance, sir. It's perfect for a distinguished gentleman like yourself."

The old man looked at the bottle skeptically. "And how much does it cost?"

"Only 1000 pokedollars," Green replied, trying to sound convincing.

The old man's bravado immediately evaporated. "You should be ashamed of yourself, for trying to scam the elderly."

Green's eyes narrowed. "Oh, I think Officer Jenny would be ashamed to hear about an elderly pervert like you."

The old man tried to make a run for it, but the shadow beneath her feet outstretched out and caught the old man to freeze him in place.

"Pay up old man, or you're going to spend your last days in prison dropping your soap." The words hit him like a punch to the gut, and he froze in his tracks.

Green had a confident smirk on her face as she held out a bottle. The old man felt a chill run down his spine as he realized that he was being robbed.

"Ok, I'll pay," he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Of course, sir, thank you for your purchase," Green said sweetly, as she handed him the bottle while deftly removing all the money from his wallet. The old man felt a sinking feeling in his stomach as he realized the full extent of his loss.

[ Green, stop fooling around! ]

A psychic voice exclaimed in her head as Green smiled.

As the old man turned to leave, he felt a sudden release from the grip around him. With a burst of adrenaline, he broke into a sprint, his old bones protesting with each step. He didn't stop until he was safely tucked away in the dark alleyway, far from prying eyes.

Once he caught his breath, he pulled the bottle out of the bag and examined it closely. The label was bright and colorful, with promises of shiny, lustrous hair before his eyes narrowed at the price tag; 1 Pokedollar.

In a fit of anger, the old man threw the bottle at the payment and suddenly, he heard a loud cracking sound, followed by a sharp pain in his groin. He doubled over in agony, clutching himself as he tried to make sense of what had just happened. That was when he noticed the bottle lying on the ground, bouncing away from him.

"Mew damnit!" he screamed, his voice rising in anger and frustration. He kicked the bottle across the pavement, watching as it shattered into a million pieces. As he stumbled away, he vowed to never let anyone take advantage of him again.

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As Green made her way inside, she couldn't help but marvel at the gym's impressive architecture. The walls were adorned with lush green vines and plants, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers.

She walked towards the gym's reception area, where a green-haired girl in a short green dress approached her. "Hello there," the girl said with a smile. "Would you like to purchase a bottle of our new line of strawberry-scented perfume?"

Green looked interested, but before she could reply, a sudden psychic scream snapped her out of her thoughts. She shook her head and refocused her attention. She couldn't afford to get distracted now, not when she was on a mission.

"Green, focus!" she reminded herself.

The girl with the green hair noticed Green's distraction and became more persistent. "I promise, it's the best perfume you'll ever smell," she added, holding up a small bottle of pink liquid.

As she looked back up at the girl, she could see the suspicion in her eyes. Green knew she had to act quickly to maintain her cover.

She pulled out a small badge from her pocket, flashing it in front of the girl's face. The girl's eyes widened in recognition as she stepped back, her tone becoming colder.

"Please follow me," she said, gesturing towards a hidden passageway behind the gym's reception desk.

...

Looker stepped out of the cozy little restaurant across the street from the Celadon City Gym. He felt a sense of urgency as he scanned the street, trying to remember if the woman he had seen just now was indeed the one on the SS. Anne.

He had encountered her during the skirmish against Team Rocket aboard the SS. Anne, where she had slipped away from him through a teleporter. Now, he had caught a glimpse of her in Celadon City, and he was determined to confront her.

As he crossed the road, a car screeched to a halt, honking its horn angrily. Looker paid it no mind, his mind focused on the woman he had seen. He was sure that she had just entered the gym, and he couldn't let her get away again.

He burst through the door of the gym, causing everyone inside to turn and look at him. The gym was spacious, with a high ceiling and wide open spaces for Pokemon battles. A few trainers were working with their Pokemon, while others lounged around in the bleachers.

Looker scanned the room, trying to find the blonde woman he had seen earlier. He quickly spotted Erika, the gym leader, walking towards him. She was a tall, slender woman with long, flowing blue hair and a serene expression. She wore a green dress adorned with leaves, and her eyes glinted with a hint of steel.

" Excuse me, I am trying to find a blonde woman wearing a black and red dress that just came in. I need to talk to her." Looker exclaimed as a blue-haired girl walked towards Looker and said.

" Hello there, Mr..."

" Handerson."

"Hello there, Mr. Handerson," she said in a calm, measured tone. "I am Erika, the Leader of the Celadon City Gym. I would like to ask you to leave the premises, and as for the woman you are looking for, she is not here."

Looker's heart sank. He had been so sure that he had finally caught up with his target. "But I saw her come in here," he protested.

Erika gave him a stern look. "Mr. Handerson, I am the Gym Leader, and I am willing to use force against someone who is causing a ruckus in my gym over someone who isn't even present here."

Looker's mind raced. He couldn't afford to get into a fight with Erika, but he couldn't let his target slip away again. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a red and black PokeBall pendant. It was a secret code that only members of the International Police Force would recognize.

"I'm sorry, but I need to speak with her," he said, holding up the pendant. "It's a matter of utmost importance."

Erika's expression didn't change. "I'm sorry, Mr. Handerson, but I don't recognize that badge. Now, please leave before I call the authorities."

Looker nodded feeling like something was wrong.

Any and all Gym leaders of the league, know and recognize the international police's badge so why was Erika behaving in such a way?

Was it because she was a part of the Amano Family?

Looker thought as he left the gym.

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Beneath the Celadon City Gym, the air was cool and musty as it flowed through the dark, twisting corridors of the Team Rocket base. Green followed the green-haired woman, her eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of danger.

The woman led her down a long hallway, the walls lined with metallic tiles that glinted in the dim light. Every few feet, a security camera hung from the ceiling, its lens fixed on the pair as they made their way deeper into the base.

At the end of the hallway, the woman stopped in front of a large vault. Green watched as she stepped aside, allowing her to approach and scan Lisa's badge over the scanner. With a series of clicks and whirrs, the vault door swung open, revealing a large, dimly lit hallway.

Green stepped inside, her footsteps echoing through the space. The walls were lined with red carpet, its fibers worn and threadbare. On either side of the hallway, a series of elevators stood like sentinels, their metal doors glinting in the low light.

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Austin and Lucario sat huddled together in the dimly lit apartment, a few blocks away from the Celadon City Gym. The air was thick with the scent of pizza and sweat, and the cramped space felt suffocating. Austin had his laptop perched on his lap, fingers furiously typing away at the keyboard as he coordinated with Green, who was currently infiltrating the notorious Team Rocket base while Pikachu was snoring on his lap.

Lucario was standing nearby, his arms crossed over his chest.

"Abra, stop cutting your pizza with a doorstop and help me here," Austin barked, his frustration clear in his voice.

Abra, who had been lounging lazily on the couch, looked up at Austin with a bored expression. "Sure thing, boss," he drawled, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "But first, give me your credit card."

Austin rolled his eyes. "Why do you need my credit card, Abra?"

Abra let out a long-suffering sigh, his body slumping against the cushions. "Because, my dear boy, I want to sell things with it. Like murder, for example."

Austin, on the other hand, just chuckled at Abra's dry humor as he patted the psychic pokemon on the head.

"Sorry, buddy. No can do. Now, connect me to Green, will you?"

Abra let out a huff, his eyes flickering with irritation. "Fine, fine. But this is an abuse of power, I tell you."

Austin just smirked. "You can bring it up with Arceus when you meet him."

Abra rolled his eyes. "Yeah, sure thing. I'm an atheist, remember?"

Austin just shrugged, turning his attention back to his laptop. "Whatever you say, Abra. Now, let's get to work."

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[ Celadon City - Team Rocket base ]

Green stood alone in the dimly lit hallway, the silence only broken by the distant hum of machinery. She felt a sudden jolt, a psychic message piercing through the stillness.

"Go to the 3rd elevator on the left, move to the 2nd floor."

Green wasted no time in obeying the directive, her footsteps echoing down the deserted corridor as she made her way to the designated elevator. As she stepped inside, the elevator shuddered to life with a metallic groan, ascending slowly to the second floor.

The doors opened with a hiss, revealing an empty hallway save for one solitary door at the end. Green took a deep breath, and with a sense of trepidation, approached the door.

She raised her hand to knock, her knuckles rapping against the cold metal. A voice called out from within.

"Come in."

Green pushed the door open, revealing a small, sparsely furnished room. In the center sat a desk, cluttered with papers and a computer. Behind it sat a man, his small stature and blonde hair contrasting sharply with the dark, imposing suit he wore.

The man's gaze flicked up as Green entered the room, his expression was impassive.

"What is the reason for your visit, Captain Lisa?" he asked, his voice clipped and businesslike.

Green pulled a USB drive from her pocket and held it out to the man, who looked at it with interest.

"Did Dr. Namba recover all the files from the New Island?" he asked.

"Yes," Green replied. "All the files have been recovered, from the bills to the recordings."

The man nodded thoughtfully. "Hmm, a job well done considering the time it took. Any other report to be made?"

"None," Green replied.

"You may leave," the man said dismissively.

Green nodded, turning to leave the room. As she walked away, the man's gaze followed her, his expression betraying a hint of confusion.

Something about "Lisa's" behavior seemed off to him, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. He shrugged it off and turned his attention back to the USB drive, plugging it into the computer with a satisfying click.

As the files began to transfer, the only sounds in the room were the soft whirring of the computer and the faint hum of machinery from outside.

...

Meanwhile Green used the elevator to go to the fifth floor.

Inside the elevator, Green's Lisa disguise melted away revealing an exhausted Ditto.

The walls were painted a sickly shade of yellow, the peeling wallpaper revealing the grimy brick beneath. The air was thick with the scent of disinfectant and sweat, an overpowering aroma that made Green's head spin.

Taking out Ditty's PokeBall, Green returned him before pulling out another Pokeball as another Ditto appeared in the elevator.

Said Ditto glancing at Green before looking down shyly.

Austin's ditto still wasn't comfortable with the idea of meeting new people but he wanted to help his trainer so he bit down on his anxiety and as Scizor or Fearow won put it, do it with a Chin Up! Even though he didn't have a Chin.

" Are you ready to hide this beauty from the world ?" Green asked with a wink as Ditto twiddled his protrusions and nodded.

Ditto latched onto Green's face as a bright light engulfed the elevator Green's face and body changed into a replica of Jessie down to her unique hairstyle.

In her hand, she held a small brown bottle and a cotton ball. With practiced ease, she applied a liberal amount of alcohol to her face, focusing on her mouth. The potent scent made her eyes water, but she knew it was necessary to complete the disguise.

As she made her way down the corridor, she could hear the sound of grunts chatting, and laughing in the distance. She quickened her pace, her boots clicking against the tiles with increasing urgency.

Finally, she spotted a lone grunt standing guard outside a door on the east side of the hallway. He looked up as she approached, his eyes widening in surprise at the sight of her.

"Can I help you, miss?" he asked, his voice tinged with suspicion.

Green let out a drunken giggle, swaying unsteadily on her feet. "W, Where's my room?" she slurred, her words barely intelligible.

The grunt hesitated for a moment, eyeing her up and down. "Right this way, Vice Executive Jessie," he said.

...

The shadow crept swiftly along the walls of the dimly lit hallway, as if it were a living, breathing entity with a will of its own. Its movements were swift and fluid as if guided by some unseen hand.

Haunter moved with ease towards the mesh hall. Its ghostly form blended seamlessly into the darkness as if it were made of the very shadows themselves. The creature had been commanded telepathically by its trainer to carry out a task.

As Haunter approached the mesh hall, she could see three figures sitting around a table, feasting on what appeared to be a lavish spread of food. The trio was dressed in their usual garb, Jessie sporting a red dress with matching boots, James wearing his trademark white suit and purple hair, and Meowth perched on the table, his signature gold coin hanging from his neck.

Haunter moved towards Jessie, merging with her shadow as if it were a part of her very being. A tendril of darkness slithered from Haunter's form and deftly knocked Jessie's spoon to the ground.

"Meowth, can you be a dear and get that for me?" Jessie said, her voice tinged with irritation.

"Get it da self, Jessie," Meowth replied, his Brooklyn accent thick and gruff.

Jessie let out a frustrated sigh, bending down to retrieve her fallen spoon. As she did, she noticed a pair of glowing red eyes staring back at her from the darkness. Before she could even scream out in terror, hypnotic waves rippled from Haunter to Jessie, causing her eyes to glaze over.

"I am going to go use the powder room, ok," Jessie said, her voice devoid of any emotion.

James and Meowth looked at each other, confused by Jessie's sudden change in demeanor.

"More food for us," James said, a sly grin spreading across his face.

"That's right, start eating before she comes back," Meowth added, his eyes fixed hungrily on the platters of food.

As they ate, a tendril of darkness snaked it is way up to James' lap, leaving a small red envelope in its wake. The creature disappeared back into the shadows as if it had never been there at all.

...

[ Jessie's Room ]

Green pushed open the creaky door and stepped into the dimly lit room, her footsteps echoing off the peeling wallpaper. The musty scent of old beauty products and stale perfume filled her nostrils, making her wrinkle her nose in disgust.

As her eyes adjusted to the darkness, she could make out the scattered clutter that littered the room. Tubes of half-used lipstick, jars of creams, and various bottles of hairspray were strewn about haphazardly. The room was a complete mess, and it was evident that no one had bothered to clean it in months.

Green gingerly stepped over the discarded items, careful not to knock anything over as she made her way to the bed. The bed was a lumpy, sagging thing, covered in faded pink sheets that were threadbare in places. Tacked to the wall above the bed were posters of the most famous singers and actors of the day, their smiling faces staring down at her.

She placed a red envelope on the bed.

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[ Celadon City - Team Rocket Base ]

Jessie felt a haze lifting from her mind, like a fog slowly dissipating, revealing the stark reality of her surroundings. She tried to recall how she got here, but her memories were fragmented, and hazy, like a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces. She looked around and saw that she was in a small, brightly lit room with no windows. The walls around her were cold and unyielding, like a prison cell.

Panic and fear slowly began to rise within her, like a beast awakening from its slumber. She tried to call out for help, but her voice was trapped within her throat, like a bird trapped in a cage. She felt trapped, unable to move or escape. Her mind was like a maze, with dead ends and twists and turns, making it difficult to find her way out.

As she closed her eyes and took a deep breath, she felt a strange sensation in her mind, like something was trying to push its way in. She resisted, trying to hold it at bay, but the pressure grew stronger and stronger until she could no longer hold out.

Suddenly, there was a snap, like a rubber band breaking, and she awoke with her mind clear. She found herself in a bathroom stall, feeling confused and disoriented. As she stood up, her feet gave way, and she held onto the stall door to steady herself before making her way out.

The sound of chuckles filled her ears, and she turned to see a few Team Rocket grunt girls glancing at her, their eyes filled with mockery and disdain. She felt a surge of anger and frustration, like a volcano erupting inside her. "Take a picture, it'll last longer!" she screamed out, causing the girls to scurry away like frightened rats.

Turning towards the mirror on the wall, she saw the words "Room" written on her forehead with lipstick. Her eyes widened in horror as she realized her precious makeup had been ruined. She tried to remember her last memory, but her mind was like a fog, making it difficult to recall anything.

"James and Meowth," she muttered under her breath, trying to connect the dots. "I was eating with them before I tried to pick up the fallen spoon before... I found myself here." She blinked a few times, trying to clear her mind, before turning on the faucet. "James and Meowth should know how this happened... right?" she wondered, feeling a sense of dread settling in her stomach like a stone.

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[ Team Rocket Base - Mess Hall ]

" Hey, what's taking Jessie so long? Did she fall in ?" James asked while eating his mashed potatoes.

" How'd I know ?" Meowth replied as glimpsed at a shimmer of light from James's lap.

" Hey, what's that?"

James looked down at his lap and saw a red envelope with a 1960s limited edition red velvet shake cap bottle.

James immediately picked it up excitedly as Meowth could see the utter joy in his eyes.

James picked up the bottle cap and saw the words, " Read in private " etched onto it.

" What's wrong ?"

" It's ruined, this masterpiece has been ruined by the greatest scum in the world !" James screamed out as he looked at the bottle cap with a melancholic look.

" Open da envelope, maybe there's money inside from a secret lover."

" Humph, whoever destroys the sacred body of the bottle caps, isn't someone I want to be with."

James's statement caused Meowth to sweatdrop as he used his claw to open the envelope.

Meowth and James curiously looked inside Meowth looked disappointed at the lack of cash but his disappointment turned into confusion as he saw the image of a woman that looked eerily like Jessie but she wore an extremely fancy dress. The image of "Jessie" was attached to the image of a Growlithe sitting under a tree.

Meowth glanced up at James who had a blank expression on his face as he suddenly stood up and hurriedly left.

" Hey, what's da matter ?!" Meowth exclaimed as he saw James disappear from the hall.

" Meowth, where's James ?"

Meowth turned to see a furious Jessie with a red patch on her forehead looking at him.

( ~ Gulp ~ )

" He suddenly went in da direction of our rooms." Meowth replied causing Jessie to stop as she remembered the word," Room"

Getting a gut, feeling that something was wrong. Jessie hurriedly went towards her room leaving behind a confused Meowth.

Meowth looked at the remaining food and exclaimed," More for me!"

...

Jessie stumbled into her dark, silent room, her heart pounding in her chest. Her hand fumbled against the wall until it found the light switch. As she flicked it on, the room was flooded with an eerie, cold light.

And there, on her bed, was a bright red envelope.

She hesitated for a moment, unsure if she wanted to know what was inside. But her curiosity got the best of her and she picked up the envelope, feeling a sense of dread fill her stomach.

The last few minutes of her memory were missing, as if they had been ripped away from her. She tried to remember what had happened, but her mind was blank.

As she examined the envelope, she couldn't shake the feeling that it was somehow connected to her missing memories. But who had left it there? And why?

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As Green departed from Celadon City Gym and hastened towards the winding alleyway. Yet, her movements were abruptly hindered by a peculiar creature - a dark ultramarine-blue, bipedal Pokémon that resembled a poison dart frog with yellow eyes, which were encircled by black markings. Orange pouches, expandable in nature, adorned its cheeks, while a black marking encompassed its upper arms and chest. White bands snaked around its chest, and its three fingers and toes were predominantly black. However, its center digits were distinguished by a bright orange hue.

"Croagunk!" the Pokémon declared, barring Green's way.

Suddenly, a voice from behind interjected, shrill, and commanding, "Hands in the Air!" Green whirled around to find Looker, brandishing a firearm in his hand.

With measured movements, Green complied, raising her hands high in the air. "This is the international police. You are under arrest. Turn around slowly, and hands where I can see them!" Looker bellowed, his gaze sharp and penetrating.

However, Green's attention was drawn back to Croagunk as the creature was launched toward Looker at great velocity.

( ~Crash~ )

( ~Thud~ )

In the aftermath, Looker ground his teeth, his eyes scanning the alleyway for any sign of Green, but to no avail. " Fuck!" he cursed, frustration evident in his tone.

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[ Team Rocket Base - James' Room ]

[ James POV ]

A sense of foreboding washed over me as I laid eyes upon the photograph of my beloved first Pokémon, Growlie the Growlithe. He was stitched together with an image of his arranged fiancée, the haughty and cruel Jessebelle. The two looked like a grotesque mismatch, their images melded together in an unnatural and unsettling way. I couldn't help but feel a knot form in my stomach as I gazed upon the image, the memories of that night flooding back to me in a torrent.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to do with the envelope that lay in my trembling hands. The handwriting was unfamiliar, and the postmark was from a city I had never heard of. The air around me felt thick with tension as if the very universe was warning me of the danger that lay within.

I finally mustered the courage to open the envelope, my hands shaking with anticipation and fear. Inside, I found a single sheet of paper, the words scrawled across it in a frenzied and chaotic manner. They were jumbled and nonsensical as if the writer had intentionally tried to make them unreadable. I struggled to make sense of them, my heart racing as I read on.

As I continued to read, a chilling feeling crept over me, a sense of dread that threatened to swallow me whole. The words seemed to taunt me, to mock me, as if the writer knew something about me that I didn't. The hairs on the back of my neck stood on end, and I couldn't help but feel that something sinister was at play.

I quickly folded the letter back up and shoved it into the envelope, my mind racing with fear and confusion. Who had sent this to me, and why? What did they want from me? I knew I needed to be cautious, to be wary of the danger that lurked in the shadows.

As I sat there, lost in thought and fear, my gaze drifted back to the image of Growlie and Jessebelle. It was a painful reminder of that horrible night, the night that changed everything. I couldn't help but feel a sense of guilt wash over me, a sense of regret that I had not been able to save Growlie from his cruel fate.

The memories flooded back, unbidden and unwanted.

...

[ 10 Years Ago ]

In the small neighborhood of Verbena Hills, nestled in the eastern tip of Vermillion City, there stood a humble abode that exuded a sense of serenity and tranquility. A collection of simple white houses, each adorned with lush gardens, greeted the passerby with open arms. Yet, atop the verdant hill that overlooked the shimmering sea, there stood a mansion that was unlike any other.

This grand residence, painted in the lightest shade of periwinkle blue, almost as white as snow, was adorned with intricate designs that spoke of Parisian architecture. The ornate gates were adorned with roses that bloomed with the promise of spring. It was the home of a family of three, a young man with lavender hair and soft green eyes, a young woman with magenta hair and sharp blue eyes, and a son who bore a striking resemblance to his father.

Though they were not known to be haughty, this family kept to themselves, preferring the quietude of their home over the bustle of the town below. It was said that they would only engage in polite conversation with their neighbors, and nothing more.

"Father, I cannot do this," cried out a young James, not yet ten years of age, to his father.

"You must, my son," replied his father sternly. "This marriage is a matter of duty, one that will secure our family's future. You must learn to respect and obey your elders, as is the way of our people."

"But what about my desires, Father? What about my happiness?" retorted James.

"Your desires do not matter, my son," replied his father. "Our customs dictate that male heirs of our family must marry before the age of ten, or risk losing their inheritance altogether. This is the way it has always been and will continue to be so."

James' mother interjected, "I am sorry, my son. Your father is right. You must learn to let go of your childish whims and embrace your future as a provider and husband."

Tears streamed down James' face as he realized the fate that awaited him. He was to be wed to a woman he did not know, forced to give up his dreams and aspirations for the sake of his family's legacy. He felt trapped and helpless, with no way to escape his predetermined future.

...

Deep within the foreboding halls of the Roseworth family mansion, a young boy's sobs echoed through the empty corridors. His anguished cries were muffled by his tear-soaked pillows, but they did not go unheard. His first pokemon, a Growlithe named Growlie, whimpered in distress as he watched his master's anguish.

"Please, Growlie, don't worry about me," James managed to choke out between sobs, his voice trembling with emotion. "I'm leaving this place."

The fire-type pokemon whined softly, sensing the desperation in James' voice.

"Will you come with me?" James asked, his voice cracking with emotion.

The loyal pokemon barked in response, his eyes shining with determination.

"I knew I could count on you," James said with a small, grateful smile.

...

As James crept through the shadowy corridors of the mansion, he felt his heart racing in his chest. His every breath seemed to echo through the empty halls, and he was keenly aware of the musty scent of the old building.

He had almost made it to the front door when a familiar voice called out to him, causing his heart to skip a beat.

"Master James, what are you doing up at this hour?" Hopkins, the family butler, stood before him, holding a candle.

Panic seized James' heart as he realized he had been caught. He knew what awaited him if he stayed - a lifetime of control and manipulation.

Without a moment's hesitation, James turned and ran, Growlie close at his heels.

"Master James! Master James!" Hopkins' voice echoed through the mansion, but James didn't stop.

As he ran, James could feel the eyes of his family upon him, watching his every move. He knew he would never be truly free until he was out of their reach.

He rounded a corner and found himself at a dead end. Fear gripped him as he frantically searched for a way out. Just as he was about to give up hope, he spotted a small window high above him.

Using every ounce of strength he had left, James climbed up to the window, Growlie's help proving invaluable. He pushed it open and scrambled out into the night, gasping for breath.

"Come on, Growlie," he said, his voice shaking with emotion.

" Master James, please don't do anything drastic !"

The words of the old butler, Hopkins, echoed through the empty halls of the Roseworth mansion, his candle casting flickering shadows across the walls. The boy, James, stood frozen in fear, his first Pokemon, Growlie, whimpering at his side.

And then, in a burst of fiery rage, Growlithe turned and attacked. Balls of fire shot toward the old butler, sending him scrambling for safety.

At that moment, James knew he could never go back. He ran across the lawn, tears streaming down his face, his heart filled with fear. He was a coward, but he knew he could not face the prison of his family's control any longer. So he ran, not even daring to look back at the life he was leaving behind.

...

James felt a shiver run down his spine as he stared at the mysterious envelope in his hands. His heart raced as he opened it, his mind consumed by the memories of that fateful night. Tears streamed down his face as he read the note inside.

"Somebody knows something about Growlie," he whispered to himself, his fists clenched tightly. "And this time, I'm not running. I'm going to save you, buddy."

As he examined the envelope, he searched for any clue that could lead him back to the sender. The fact that the letter had somehow made it inside the Team Rocket base was unsettling, and he was certain that the sender had left a trail for him to follow.

Suddenly, his attention was drawn to the photo included in the envelope. He squinted his eyes, trying to make out any details that could provide a lead.

Suddenly glancing back to the photo, James found a noted attack to it.

"Come find me," the note read. "0001 Cemetery Lane."

James couldn't shake the feeling that something sinister awaited him at that address, but he knew that he had to follow the trail.

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It's a curious concept, the moment everything falls apart.

Oftentimes, when a person is prompted to imagine their collapse, their mind goes to catastrophic places. They see their loved ones passing, or their home ablaze, or the airless wreckage of an accident as they desperately try to claw their way to freedom. So easily, we view the foundations of our lives as strong and supporting, only felled by the most vicious and foul of circumstance.

Real life, of course, is a little less exciting than that.

Real life reminds one that no—it is not always dynamite tumbling down the strong and stable wood of their heart's home. Sometimes, a screw comes loose. Sometimes, a crucial beam breaks and sends the whole thing cascading.

...

[ 16 years Ago ]

Jessie stood before the towering edifice of the orphanage, her heart hammering against her ribcage like a caged bird. She clutched a small suitcase in her hand, the only possession she had accumulated over a lifetime spent in the confines of the orphanage walls. She was on the cusp of a new journey, about to embark on a new chapter in her life that promised to be as challenging as it was exciting. For Jessie, who had never known the warmth of a loving family, this was a momentous occasion that filled her with a mix of fear and anticipation.

As she waited for her new parents to arrive, Jessie surveyed her surroundings with a mixture of apprehension and curiosity. The orphanage, with its tall spires and imposing architecture, had been her only home for as long as she could remember. She had lived her life within its walls, dreaming of a day when she would be taken in by a family of her own. Now that day had finally come, and Jessie felt as though she was on the brink of a great adventure, one that would take her to a place she had never been before.

As she stood there, lost in her thoughts, a car pulled up in front of the orphanage, and a couple stepped out. They smiled warmly at Jessie and walked over to her. For a moment, Jessie stood frozen, unsure of what to do. But then, sensing the kindness of the strangers before her, she stepped forward and tentatively extended her hand.

"Hello, Jessie. We're your new parents," the woman said, her voice soft and kind. "We're so happy to finally meet you."

Jessie hesitantly took the woman's hand and shook it, feeling a sense of warmth spread through her body. She couldn't believe that this was really happening, that she was being given the chance to start a new life with a family of her own.

"We have a lot planned for today," the man said, his voice reassuring. "We want to take you to your new home and introduce you to your new siblings. And of course, we'll do our best to make you feel comfortable and at home."

Jessie nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude and happiness. She couldn't wait to start her new life with her new family. For the first time in her life, she felt as though she belonged somewhere.

As the car pulled away from the orphanage, Jessie looked out of the window and watched as the towering spires receded into the distance. A new chapter had begun, one that promised to be filled with adventure and challenges. She couldn't wait to see what the future held.

Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months. Jessie settled into her new home with ease, enjoying the company of her new siblings and the warmth of her new parents. They were kind and loving, always there to support her and help her grow. They took her on vacations and spoiled her with gifts, and Jessie felt loved and cared for.

But life has a way of throwing curveballs, and Jessie's family soon found themselves facing financial troubles. The prosperity they had enjoyed was no longer there, and they were forced to sell their home and downsize. For Jessie, this was a difficult time, but she remained strong and supportive of her family.

They soon found themselves in a small urban village nestled at the base of Mount Silver. The months that followed were filled with nothing but hardship as the family struggled to make ends meet. There were days when they had nothing to eat, and they were forced to rely on the kindness of strangers to get by.

This was a difficult time for Jessie and her family, but they remained strong and continued to support each other.

Soon the family moved to a small urban village at the base of Mount Silver, the months that came after were filled with nothing but hardships as the family was forced to eat snow to keep themselves feed.

But to Jessie the snow meal was one of the most happiest moments in her life as she felt the warmth of a family in the cold.

...

In the attic of the old house, Jessie sifted through a box of forgotten things, each item holding memories of her past. As she rummaged through the box, her eyes fell upon a letter addressed to her, yet it bore no resemblance to the familiar handwriting of her adoptive parents. She hesitated for a moment, feeling an unexplainable sense of curiosity and anxiety, before carefully opening the letter.

The words on the paper were written in a delicate hand, and as she began to read, Jessie felt a wave of emotions washing over her. It was a letter from her birth mother, detailing the circumstances that led to her decision to give Jessie up for adoption. Her heart raced as she realized that her birth mother had thought of her and missed her all these years.

But then, anger and betrayal began to fill Jessie's heart. Why had her adoptive parents kept this letter from her all these years? Why did they not think that she had the right to know about her past? Her eyes welled up with tears, and she struggled to keep her emotions in check.

Jessie's adoptive parents could see that something was troubling her. When she confronted them about the letter, they were taken aback, unsure of how to respond. They explained that they had kept the letter from her only to protect her, as they didn't want to upset her with information about her birth mother.

But for Jessie, it was too late. The revelation of the letter had shattered her world, and she couldn't help but feel betrayed by the people she trusted the most. She felt lost and alone, her once bright outlook on the world now replaced by a jaded and cynical view.

As the days passed, Jessie's behavior began to change. Her adoptive parents watched helplessly as their once-loving and caring child transformed into someone who viewed the world with hatred and anger. Even the snow meals that once brought warmth and comfort to the family were now a reminder of all that had been lost.

...

Jessie sat at the dinner table, staring sullenly at the plate of food stamp meal in front of her. It was the same meal her adoptive parents had made for her every night for the past year.

"Is something wrong, Jessie?" her adoptive mother asked, noticing Jessie's sour expression.

"This food is disgusting," Jessie said, pushing the plate away. "My real parents would never make me eat this."

Her adoptive parents exchanged a look of frustration and hurt. They had always done their best to provide for Jessie and give her a loving home, and it hurt them to hear her speak about her birth parents in such a way.

"Jessie, your real parents gave you up for adoption," her adoptive father said sternly. "We are your real parents now, and we work hard to provide for you. You should be grateful for what we give you, not complain about it."

"But my birth parents were rich and successful," Jessie said, her voice rising. "They could afford to give me anything I wanted. You can't even afford to give me a decent meal."

"Jessie, that's enough," her adoptive mother said, her voice firm. "Your birth parents may have had more money, but they didn't have the love and dedication that we have for you. You are lucky to have us as your parents, and you need to start showing some gratitude and respect."

" Love?" Jessie sneered. "If you loved me, you wouldn't have adopted me in the first place. You should have thrown me back to the orphanage and maybe my real mother would have come back for me."

Her father's face turned red with anger at Jessie's words. "How dare you say something like that? We are your real parents and we have always loved and cared for you. We may not be perfect, but we have done everything we can to give you a good life. You need to show some gratitude and respect."

" Respect ? What respect should I give to someone who makes their children eat dirt and snow ?"

Jessie's words cut deep to her adoptive mother who had tears built up in her eyes while it seemed that Jessie's words were the breaking point for her father.

" Oh ! Then there's the door right there, you can just walk away from the home and find your oh so loving real family there !"

" Fine, I think I will !" Jessie stood up and left the home with slam.

" Theodore, what are you doing ? Get her, she will catch a cold out there." Martha exclaimed with tears in her eyes as Theodore's expression lightened before he stood up and ran towards the door.

In the bitter chill of the night, the duo searched relentlessly for Jessie, hoping to find her huddled nearby. But alas, it seemed as if she had vanished into the very depths of the earth, never to be seen or heard from again. Their efforts were in vain as they scoured the land, braving the freezing snow and harsh winds.

Jessie's departure left behind a family that mourned deeply, with tears flowing from their eyes and hearts heavy with grief. They yearned for her return, for her laughter to fill the air once more, but all they were left with was the silence of the night, a constant reminder of their loss.

...

[ 16 years later ]

[ Celadon City - Team Rocket base]

[ Jessie's room ]

Jessie sat amid the wreckage of her once orderly home, surrounded by the carnage of her fury. The books that had once lined her shelves now lay strewn haphazardly about the room, while shattered fragments of glass from a broken vase glinted menacingly in the dim light.

Tears streamed down her face, a testament to the emotional turmoil that roiled within her breast. The words of the letter echoed in her mind, taunting her with their cruel truth. She had always prided herself on being in control, but this situation had spiraled out of her grasp, leaving her feeling helpless and alone.

The envelope lay nearby, its ominous presence a constant reminder of the woman whose image it bore. The woman who looked so much like Jessie herself, and yet was so far removed from her life. The words scrawled across the front of the envelope, written in bold, blood-red letters, held an invitation that Jessie could not ignore.

"If you want to find your mother, come find me at 0001 Cemetery Lane."

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[ Celadon City Gym - Team Rocket Base ]

As Jessie made her way down the long, sterile hallway, her thoughts were consumed by the red letter, its words like a swarm of angry bees buzzing in her mind. The harsh fluorescent lights overhead cast an otherworldly glow on the polished linoleum floors, making her feel as though she was walking through a nightmare.

Her footsteps echoed eerily against the walls, the only sound in the otherwise silent corridor. But as she approached the end of the hallway, she heard the sound of footsteps coming towards her, their cadence slow and deliberate.

Jessie's heart raced as she tried to keep her thoughts focused. She knew that she had to keep moving forward, no matter what. But just as she reached the end of the hallway, something hit her knees, sending her stumbling forward.

Startled, she looked down to see Meowth on the floor, its beady eyes fixed on her.

"Hey, what's da big deal?" it said, its voice high-pitched and grating.

Jessie's nerves were already frayed, and the sound of Meowth's voice grated on her like nails on a chalkboard. "Meowth, what are you doing here?" she asked, her voice tight.

"I was coming to find you," it said, its tone defensive. "James suddenly left the base to collect some big bottle caps."

"Leave him be," Jessie snapped, already feeling the anger bubbling up inside of her. "You know how his love for those things is."

"Da'ths right, so Jessie what do you want to do?" Meowth persisted, its voice like a needle in her ear.

"Not now, Meowth," she said, her eyes narrowing as she stepped into the elevator. "I have better things to do."

" Hey, at least tell me what are you doing ?"

Meowth yelled as Jessie rolled her eyes before closing the elevator.

Jessie pushed it all aside, her focus fixed on the task at hand. She was determined to get the answers about her mother that she had been searching for years, no matter what it took.

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Giovanni sat in his plush executive chair, the cool leather caressing his back, as he scanned through the endless stack of paperwork that littered his desk. He sighed, the weight of responsibility and the ceaseless headaches that plagued him, pressing down on his temples. He leaned back and stretched his arms, trying to ease the tension in his muscles.

The central base of Team Rocket was quiet, the only sound coming from the scratch of pen against paper and the soft purring of his Persian, who lay stretched out on the floor, lazily licking its paw.

Giovanni had been spending the last few weeks traveling between cities, checking in on his operations, and overseeing the remodeling of his casino. He longed for the days when he was a Pokémon gym leader, where he could dispatch trainers who left empty-handed, their heads hung low. Now, he had to deal with league paperwork and fulfill his political role, which was a far cry from his days of battling in the arena.

Suddenly, a young agent dressed in a black uniform with the red "R" on his chest burst into the room, interrupting Giovanni's thoughts.

"Sir!" he exclaimed, his voice high-pitched and nervous.

Giovanni looked up, his annoyance evident on his face.

"What is it?" he snapped.

"We have received reports from Celadon City, sir," the agent said, his voice trembling. "They have caught a guy trying to enter the base of the casino."

Giovanni felt a sense of irritation creeping up inside him, but he also felt a tinge of excitement. It was interesting news, and he wondered who this mysterious person was and what their true intentions were in Kanto.

"Has he given any information?" Giovanni asked, his voice sharp.

"No, sir," the agent replied. "He refuses to speak."

Giovanni narrowed his eyes. "Contact Proton and ask him to interrogate the man. We need to know what he's up to."

The agent nodded and quickly left the room, leaving Giovanni to his thoughts once more. As he brushed Persian's soft, silky fur, he pondered on who this man could be and what he was doing here.

Just then, the agent returned, interrupting his thoughts once again.

"Sir, there's a call for you from Sir Carr," the agent said, a hint of excitement in his voice.

Giovanni's curiosity was piqued. Sir Carr was one of his most trusted advisors, and he always had interesting information to share.

"Put him through," Giovanni said, his voice stern.

The agent fumbled with the video camera before a holographic image of a short man with a big body wearing a black ivy cap appeared before him.

"Ah, Giovanni, it's good to see you," Sir Carr said, a smile spreading across his face.

Giovanni bristled. "Refer to me as the boss, nothing more and nothing less," he said, his voice cold and commanding.

Sir Carr's smile faded. "Yes, boss," he replied, his voice respectful.

Giovanni leaned forward. "So, what do you have for me?"

"Well, the good news is that we have recovered all the files from the New Island base," Sir Carr said, his voice full of pride. "You should receive the USB drive any moment now."

"Good," he said, his voice low. "Anything else to report?"

" Sir, we have found Dr. Akihabara's body and lab but both were destroyed in an explosion."

"Anything else to report?"

"No, sir."

"You are dismissed."

Carr's image disappeared, and a bright light engulfed the room as a USB drive materialized out of thin air via a psychic pokemon.

Giovanni's eyes gleamed as he picked up the device with psychic energy and plugged it into his laptop.

But what he didn't know was that a digital pokemon named Porygon had infected his laptop, connecting it to an unwanted viewer, Austin.

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