A candelabra flickered in the darkness. Melted wax seeped down the sticks. Gym Leader Pryce stood in the dark room, holding the only source of light. He listened to the whimpers near the bed. Followed by a low growl. Lance struggled to speak from pressure over his chest. His jumpsuit was unzipped, revealing deep wounds. Three large slashes by the hydreigon's claws. Fresh blood spilled out of each slash, like streams from a lake.

Pryce closed his eyes, it was unbelievable. It was as feared. The carnage inflicted by the savage nature of dragon pokémon. Under nefarious orders no less. Lance could have listened to his warnings. Hours wasted in endless conversation. Lectures and discourse over the vigilante work the Dragon Master did. But, Lance was young. What would he understand? He wouldn't see Pryce's words as wisdom - but ramblings of an old man.

Jasmine hadn't told him everything, yet. But, Pryce could draw a picture of the event. She was tending to Lance's wounds. With her hands she pressured wet rags over them, Dragonite helped. He winced over his own wounds but focused on the well-being of his trainer. Dratini hovered over, mewling.

"Back away Dratini," Her trainer ordered. The pokémon listened, ashamed of the outcome. He glided away into a corner, fading into the dark.

A gash of blood seeped out of her rags. Jasmine hoped the wounds would form into clots to flush out any debris that could lead to an infection. Yet, this was only a minimal remedy. Lance required greater care. "He needs a Doctor."

"This is not the first time. He'll live," said Pryce.

"How could you say that?!" Jasmine exclaimed. "Experience or not - Lance needs medical help! He's losing a lot of blood as we speak!"

There was a knock on the door. Pryce geared his attention to the visitor. "You have your answer. Come in."

"I came as fast as I can, Leader Pryce!" Kaburagi yelled, scrambling in with a medical case. "Where is Master Lance?!"

Pryce brought him toward his injured employer. Kaburagi dropped his case and ran. "Master Lance!"

"To think he would reach to such extremes and cause commotion in my own home," Pryce muttered. "Lance is fortunate enough that I came in time to rescue him."

"What happened?!"

"Perhaps she could hold the answers. I'll leave you two to discuss."

Pryce walked out, Kaburagi was stunned by Jasmine's presence. "Miss Jasmine?! What – why are you – "

"I'll explain everything soon. First, we must stop the bleeding."

"Right!"

The harsh rain weakened into the meek drizzle. Croagunk pressed his fingers over the grounded ash. His owner muttered something. Looker was bewildered over the scene – especially so late at night. It was near four in the morning when he got the call and was still trying to piece everything. International police officers blocked the ruined shop with yellow tape. The elderly owners of the shop were distraught. The old woman was in tears over the loss of her business. Her husband held her in consolation.

Looker glanced at Pryce. "You have no idea what could have happened?"

"Isn't that your job?"

"I am only trying to find a solution. It's outrageous! It couldn't have been an isolated incident…"

"So, you presume something sinister is behind this."

"Of course, when police received calls I was promptly called for. There was suspicion that Team Rocket returned with the recent poisoning cases. Now their hidden place was blown up?" He paced around. "There has to be a connection… they must have figured out I was behind their tail. Or, perhaps…"

"Perhaps?"

"The rumors. Rumors of Johto having a vigilante since the Radio Tower incident. Members of Team Rocket were found in bad shape after the first incident in Mahogany's shop. As if someone had terrorized them. It's so drastic for Team Rocket to destroy their hiding place without reason. If that were the case, that is."

"Is that so?"

"I wonder if he managed to find them before we did," said Looker. "That would explain all this mess. He already caused havoc to Team Rocket before. Maybe it was a ploy to lure him out and give him a permanent end. They are an organization with scummy tactics – ah!"

He was shoved by the elderly couple's granddaughter. "Team Rocket destroyed our business!" She cried, tears pouring out. "And all you can do is just stand and speculate?!"

She hit Looker's chest several times with her fists, leaving the detective stunned. "Why don't you catch them already?! I thought you are supposed to help people! Please… stop them…" She succumbed to the ground, sobbing. Looker knelt down, hugging her.

"I'm sorry," he whispered. He hated to be in this position but was part of his risky career. There would be some losses, Looker took that to heart. Yet, he yearned for justice. The cries of the innocent gave him the motive to work harder.

"First the poisonings in Blackthorn, now our shop," the old woman wept.

"Is Johto becoming a region for terrorism?" The old man said.

"Mahogany Town will not become a playground between order and chaos!" shouted Pryce. "Don't speak such nonsense!"

"L – Leader Pryce…"

"This incident will be resolved, I will ensure it. I will hold a town meeting later today for a solution. Rest assured, I believe our people will act in good faith to help your family rebuild what was lost."

He glared at Looker. "Detective, let us take care of the situation."

"What? It is our duty as law enforcement to – "

"Mahogany Town can handle its own affairs. There is no need for outside intervention."

"With all due respect, I have to disagree. You are still bound to international laws. We, as the international police must file a report."

"You think such a misstep is too much for us? For centuries Mahogany Town has managed to defend itself!"

"That's impressive but that lies in the past," Looker argued. "We can't let more crimes by Team Rocket continue to rage across Johto. We must intervene before more innocent people and pokémon are threatened."

There was no response. Pryce tapped his cane shortly after. "Fine, but keep your presence minimal in our business. These old bones can still take lead."

Near five in the morning, Pryce returned back home. He watched Dragonite picking up the bowl of bloody water away from Lance's bed. Kaburagi clipped off a piece of bandage before Jasmine set it over Lance's wounds. The injured Champion was drifting to sleep, thanks to calming medicine given by his attendant.

"We are done," Kaburagi announced.

"Will he be all right?" asked Jasmine.

Kaburagi stored some medical supplies in his trunk. "Yes, the medicine I just dispensed will help. Fortunately, I have been tending to Master Lance since he was young. I am no stranger to the medical field either."

He made a courtly bow, respecting her assistance. "I must thank you, Miss Jasmine. It would have been much more difficult to do this on my own. Master Lance hasn't had such grave injuries in a long time. Your precision in stitching wounds is amazing. You have quite the talent."

"Oh, no need to thank me. I have spent time caring for sick and injured pokémon. Especially for several incidents that occur near the docks at Olivine's shore. Unfortunate ones, mostly with boats and ships. Some pokémon get caught in the midst of shipwrecks."

"How heartbreaking - ah! Leader Pryce!"

Pryce placed his bag at a nearby table. "How is he?"

"Doing much better, thankfully. If it weren't for Miss Jasmine, it would have been much uglier!"

"Are you aware of the circumstances that brought to this?"

"Yes…" Kaburagi stared at his master and the Gym Leader beside him. "Miss Jasmine told me as we patched him up. Team Rocket has returned, and they might be the cause of the poisonings in Blackthorn."

"So I feared. Does she know? Lance's other duty?"

"Of course, I had no choice." Kaburagi made another quick bow to Jasmine. "I am deeply sorry for this. The last thing Master Lance would have wanted was a civilian involved in his work."

"I understand," said Jasmine. "It's something I did not know about him."

"It's not one he likes to make public. He just wants to make Johto and Kanto a safer place. He is well versed in the realm of crime. An avid advocate of justice, so to speak."

"But to do undercover vigilantism under the law? Does he believe the current law systems are not good enough?"

"You could say that. But, that's another whole can of worms."

"Lance is a man who sticks to his principles to the fullest," Pryce added. "Yet his recklessness leads him to near death experiences, like this one."

"It is quite dangerous. I am glad he is all right," It was still a stunning reveal, encountering something new about one of the most powerful trainers in the world. Jasmine wasn't sure how to take it in, but she knew of it now. Where would things go from here?

She stared into the corner where Dratini was. "I didn't think that looking for my pokémon would lead to this. I still don't even know how he ended up there. Maybe I can find out…"

She crawled to the corner facing her pokémon. She knelt down and sat, the Gym Leader needed answers. "Dratini, come here."

No response from the dark end. She called out again. Pryce shook his head in contempt.

"Young one, face your trainer!" He yelled.

"Don't scare him!" Jasmine objected to his mannerisms. "He's still a baby!"

Pryce backed off, his methods of training were different from Jasmine's. It didn't look like she would accept any of his help. Even so, the pokémon was in need of some discipline.

She tried again, softening her voice. "It's all right, Dratini. Please come here."

No answer. "Dratini?"

Lance's Dragonite huffed. He picked up Lance's torn cape and put it on. Impatient, he made his way to the corner. Despite his own bruises, he was keen on walking.

"Wait!" Jasmine yelled, holding him back. "You're still injured, let me help you – "

The dragon pokémon pulled away, growling. Clearly, he refused to be interrupted. Jasmine wanted to reply, but Kaburagi halted her. "Don't worry, I will patch up Dragonite. He has been through worse, Miss Jasmine. He wants to communicate with your dratini. Allow him, if you will."

Dratini was curled up, hiding his head. He looked up after hearing footsteps. Dragonite frowned with a gruff. The older pokémon had his own method of communication, intimidating the young one. He lowered his head. Dragonite kneeled, his claws inching to touch Dratini's skin before he flinched. Afterward, his breathing slowed from calming himself. A familiar scent made Dratini come out of his shell, and he sniffed around the bigger dragon. Dragonite's gaze softened and picked him up.

"Wow…" Jasmine mumbled. "He's relaxed…"

"He must have picked up Master Lance's own scent on Dragonite," Kaburagi explained. "Considering Dratini's attachment to him, Dragonite used the cape to lure him out."

"What an intelligent pokémon…"

Dragonite handed the baby back to his trainer, Jasmine cradled him gently. "Dratini, tell me… were you kidnapped?"

He shook his head.

"Then how did you end up in that place?"

Dratini was hesitant to answer, looking away.

"Something must have brought you there…"

"What a strange matter," said Kaburagi. "He looks unharmed. If you'd like I can do a quick check-up on your dratini after I help Dragonite."

"I would appreciate that, thank you," said Jasmine. Kaburagi beckoned Dragonite to a separate room for first aid.

Pryce switched the topic. "Lance should be grateful I managed to convince the International Police to minimize their presence here. Otherwise, any further digging would have led to him being caught."

"The International Police know already?"

"Not surprising considering their line of work. I'll come up with ways to scrutinize the publicity. Now, we should let Lance rest. I am sure he will figure out what to do when he is more stable. Meet me upstairs, Leader Jasmine. I want you to tell me everything that has happened."

"Are you sure about this? Should we let him stay here?"

"He is in good hands. Pryce has known Master Lance since he was young. We will also handle any affairs from here out."

Jasmine pressed her hand on her chest, gazing back at Pryce's house as she went down the steps. Dratini rested around her neck, sleeping. He was cleared by Kaburagi's check-up as the butler detected he was fine. "I hope he recovers soon."

"He will," said Kaburagi, pulling out an umbrella over the drizzle. "After all, Master Lance always pulls through. No matter the circumstance…"

His voice trailed off, leading Jasmine to believe something was left desired. "Um, Mister Kaburagi?"

"Yes?"

"Tell me, how long has this been going on? Does Lance take these risks almost every day?"

It took a few moments for the old attendant to conjure a reply. It wasn't one to discuss with a stranger over the topic, with Jasmine knowing the daunting side of Lance. "Not every day, but it's… a major part of his life. He simply wants to make the world a better place, perhaps because his love for pokémon is grand."

"But do you agree with what he is doing? It's already so secretive too."

Kaburagi sighed. "Not always, as his attendant I remind him that he is not invincible. I try to give him the best advice but Master Lance is too keen on his own ideas. It does worry me. Every night I pray in the shrine in our holy land, that he comes in one piece."

"You're also his attendant?"

"Butler, servant, call me what you like. He… is very important to not only Blackthorn… but to me. I do see him as a son. I may not be his real father, but I'd do anything. Since he was a child he has had great ambitions, although I suppose it comes from how strict our clan is. But now, I'm afraid he is pushing beyond limits. Well, not that he isn't already. He has achieved many things, but he is never satisfied."

"I see. It's nice to see someone watching over him, he must trust you greatly."

"Oh but my time will come soon, I am quite old. Maybe someone else will take the position someday…"

Kaburagi chuckled. "But enough of that, I assure you Master Lance will be fine. As you for you Miss Jasmine, you told Leader Pryce some vital information. I'll be sure to rely on the information you told us to Master Lance, and from here out leave everything to me. May… I ask you to do a favor?"

"Of course, what is it?"

"Please swear secrecy on what happened last night. No one must know, please… I beg of you."

Jasmine could sense the worry, this was a giant secret after all. "I wasn't planning on telling anyone. You can rely on me."

Kaburagi felt relief, Lance was safe from public outcry. For now. "Bless your soul, Miss Jasmine! Again, I am sorry for you being dragged into this. You certainly should not receive this during your first to Blackthorn."

"I didn't… but Lance saved me, Kaburagi. I couldn't leave him behind. And now with what you have told me, he has done so much. I… hope one day he finds peace with himself."

"I do too."

She smiled. "Thank you for checking on Dratini. I am sure with someone kind such as you by Lance's side, everything will be all right."

Her smile was genuine, Jasmine wanted to think positive. At the very least, seek light at the end of this mess. It had been chaotic, being thrown into a situation of underground crime with dangers on every corner. Now, entrusted with a secret after Lance had risked his life for her and Dratini. Although, she mused how things would change forth. Her conversation with Pryce warned her she was now entangled with Lance's affairs. Even if Kaburagi assured they would go forward with everything else. There was no way out of it now. Would Lance speak with her personally over the incident? How would it all fare out?

It would not be the last time they would meet.

The rain clouds moved away in the sky, revealing a rising sun among the damp trees. New dawn approached on the horizon.

The Glitter Lighthouse in Olivine City was bustling with life as usual. Tourists and natives wandered around the historical establishment. To exploring the photos of the lighthouse's important figures and events on the walls, to texts of ownership locked in glass cases. Many other attractions remained, such as a piece of a boat's helm on display and video tours. On the floor just below the deck, Janina gave orders through her hand speakerphone. "All right everyone, be sure to not touch any relics on display! If you want a tour guide, be sure to talk to the front desk on the first floor!"

"And you can't give me a tour? What a shame!" Whitney shouted in the distance. Janina grinned widely at her visit. "Whitney!"

The Goldenrod Gym Leader mirrored a smile of her own, wearing a pink and white baseball cap along with her usual sporty attire. She tipped it. "Top of the morning! What's up?"

"Doing great! Just caring for the lighthouse while Miss Jasmine is away!"

"Wait, she hasn't returned from Blackthorn City yet?!"

"No, but she should be back anytime soon. What brings you here, Miss Whitney?"

"Just dropping by to say hello. I wanna introduce Jasmine to someone…" She pulled the young apprentice to the side. "…I've been meaning to, y'know?"

"Wait, really?! Who is it?"

Whitney was about to explain until the Olivine Gym Leader made her presence clear. Jasmine was home, back at her own matters.

"Miss Jasmine!" Janina shouted.

"Hello Janina, I'm back – oh, I didn't think you would be here, Whitney."

"Jazzy!" Whitney cried. She ran to Jasmine and locked her into a tight embrace. "I missed you! How was the trip?"

"Oh um… quite well, actually." It was a bit far from the truth, but Jasmine could not tell of the events that happened last night. Not after swearing secrecy to Kaburagi. And after the hospitality she received in Blackthorn – how could she turn her back on them?

"Great to hear! I'm sure Clair must have given you some juicy secrets on how to care for dragon types! Speaking of which, where your dratini?"

"Ah, I was just in the Light Room. Amphy wanted to play with him, he was quite happy to see him again. I left the two with my grandfather."

"So you were already here right under our noses! Mind if we go up there to see him?"

"Oh, of course… I don't mind."

"Awesome, got someone I want you to meet too."

Jasmine raised an eyebrow. "Someone?"

Whitney pulled Jasmine by the hand, such a surprise was exciting. She turned her head, winking. "You'll see, let's go!"

The Light Room was quiet, with few citizens and tourists on deck. Mostly out of respect for Amphy who preferred peace due to his quiet identity. He would not be distracted much by outsiders interfering with his work. However, one journalist asked Myron if she could take a video. She beamed a nice smile as she adjusted her headset.

Myron was welcoming. He marked the condition that as long as the camera was not too close to irritate Amphy. The journalist asserted she would make her distance, and that would make it in a documentary. The video was done within several minutes, the journalist grinned as a helioptile over her shoulder cushioned himself. "Thank you so much! I'll be sure to use the footage, please stay tuned for the documentary's release date!" She handed Myron her business card before departing.

Myron waved and read the card, ignoring Jasmine and Whitney entering from the elevator.

"Ah, what a perfect view," said Whitney, eyes strolling on the glass windows over Olivine's sunny skyline and beach below. "Perfect for a meetup, you know?"

"I suppose so," replied Jasmine. She watched Whitney reach into her pocket, drawing out a poké ball. "Hm?"

"I've been meaning to introduce you to her." She tossed the capsule high in the air. "Now, come on out!"

The ball's light shined out a small star-shaped pokémon. She licked herself and straightened the pink curl over her forehead – then was aware. "Cle?"

She was picked up by Whitney, who beamed a silly grin. "Meet Clef!"

"Clef?" Jasmine asked, looking at the cleffa. The pokémon's brown ears flexed at her new environment.

"You're not the only one who's caring for an infant! She hatched not too long ago. I say around the same time you got your dratini."

"I see, hello Clef." Jasmine leaned down to pat the curl on her forehead, looking cheery. "It's nice to meet you."

Entranced by Jasmine's soft head pats, Clef mirrored a big grin of her own. "Cleffa!"

Giggling, Jasmine caressed her rosy cheeks. "How cute, she's blushing!"

"Heh, I knew she would like ya! Now your dratini has a playmate!"

"Oh, I am sure Dratini would love to meet her!"

"Ah, does Whitney have a baby to care for too?" Myron asked, intruding in the conversation with Amphy behind him. The ampharos held Dratini in his own arms, welcoming them warmly.

"Heya Myron, been a while! And I do!" Whitney addressed. "Ain't she cute?"

"My… she is so precious." Myron marveled over the cleffa. "Dratini, looks like you might have a new friend."

Dratini eyes meet Clef's. Rather than appearing friendly, the cleffa glared – with Dratini looking away meekly. It was uncomfortable to feel an overbearing presence and a sense of disdain.

"What's wrong, Dratini?" Jasmine asked with concern. She received her pokémon from Amphy, cradling him.

Suddenly, Clef began to cry. It surprised the others. "Uh-oh, looks like Clef doesn't like it when attention is stolen," Whitney remarked. Clef started to fuss in her arms as she cried louder. "Hey, easy now!"

"Oh my," Myron commented. He received Dratini back from Jasmine, and she went her attention back to Clef. "May I?"

"Yeah… sure," Whitney replied, handing the crying baby over. Jasmine cushioned Clef in her arms, giving a gentle touch. "Shhh, there now. It's all right, I'm still here."

This experience was new. The fresh scent of Jasmine's skin which was glossed with sweet sea salt lotion… lulled Clef down.

"Hey, she's relaxed!" Whitney exclaimed.

"Hehe, I figured it would help," Jasmine stared into Clef lovingly. "Now, would you like to meet my child?" She motioned Clef to meet Dratini again, who held watery eyes. He felt hurt being pushed aside by his own owner.

"Oh no, Dratini…" Jasmine realized what went wrong. Her grandfather huffed a laugh. "Looks like Dratini needs you now."

Jasmine turned to give Clef back to Whitney, but the pokémon gripped her bow tightly. "Ah!"

"Hey! Let go of Jasmine, Clef!" Whitney commanded.

The cleffa refused to obey, shaking her head while pouting. "Clef!"

"Clef!" Whitney shouted. "C'mon!"

The strife increased as Clef's whining transformed into large cries – startling the others. Dratini, who started to pick up Clef's game, felt annoyed. He no longer felt threatened, finding her attitude appalling. In his mind, he would mirror a behavior he picked up earlier. Lance's Dragonite managed to portray a huge existence – along with the strength that could make others tremble. If Dratini could do the same, he could push Clef away from his mother. Dratini growled and lunged himself at Clef, shoving her out of Jasmine's grasp with his tail. The two wrestled on the ground. Dratini wrapped himself around Clef, leading her to bite him. Dratini yelped and constricted around Clef harder, making her cry.

"Dratini!" Jasmine cried, rushing to break up the fight. She tugged away Dratini, the baby panted from the intensity of the fight. Whitney picked up Clef, she wept from bruises over her body.

"I can't believe this!" Jasmine scolded. "That is not the way at all!"

Dratini was confused, had he gone too far? He only wanted to release his mother from the irksome cleffa. Clef's behavior was out for her personal gain, at least in his mind. A sneaky demeanor behind her innocent face. Had Jasmine not been able to notice? He whined, eyes moving away from her.

Jasmine sighed, exasperated… but kept calm. "Dratini, that was not right. Clef was only being clingy."

Dratini made no sound. Whitney clutched Clef in her arms. "Listen, I'm gonna head to the Pokémon Center for a bit."

"I'm sorry Whitney," Jasmine lamented. "I don't know what came over Dratini – "

"Don't worry about it. He's a dragon type, after all, they can be quite aggressive!" The last statement was said jokingly, but Dratini's unruly behavior still stood.

Near Blackthorn City rested a landmark hailed as a training area by dragon tamers. Perfect for them to expand their defense and understand the weaknesses of the dragons they trained. Even if the dragons themselves detested any sort of contact with it. The Ice Path was generally known for its harsh weather and cold temperatures, which to the eyes of the dragon - brought a great amount of distaste. More so because they felt retained, able to release their full potential with their breaths generally becoming mist. The cold air would bite their exposed scales, enough to cause pain. Even so, the area brought great trials for dragons and their trainers. After all, adapting to these harsh settings would be important for battles.

And at one time, someone trained in the Ice Path. Deep in, pokémon inhabitants scrambled around to hide from the unpleasant sounds that intruded their home.

A dratini was slammed against the hard ice, slipping to the floor from the impact. He fainted upon collision to the ground, cracking the icy floors and tipping icicles down. His trainer ran and screamed his name. Of course, due to his carelessness of the ice, he slipped and fell. An icicle was close to piercing his skull, but it landed a few inches away from the spikes of his carmine hair.

"Return."

Red light absorbed a fully grown salamence, snorting as it went back into a trainer's poké ball. A dragon tamer loomed over the young boy, who crawled to his fainted pokémon.

An elderly man picked up the boy's red trapper hat on the floor.

"You were too tough on the boy," he said. He had been observing this match unfold from the very beginning. In truth, he felt no chance the child would succeed in the battle. He was inexperienced, much like his dratini. Yet, the vigorous treatment toward him even as practice… it was too much.

The dragon tamer scoffed and walked off, his cape flowing away with him.

The old man went up to the child, who sniffed as he held his dratini in his arms. Water droplets hit the dragon's skin, his trainer silently tore up.

"Do you want to get frostbite, Lance?" asked the man, straightening his scarf. He wiped the frost off the hat before placing it on the child's head.

He did not answer and stood up with his fainted companion with a hardened expression.

The old man asked, "Child, you're only young and in training. Do you expect to become a master overnight?"

"No, Master Pryce…"

Young Lance cradled his dratini, walking away. "I have to become stronger. If I want to become a great Dragon Master, I must - ow!"

He went down on one of his knees, blood seeped from his torn pants – coming from his other kneecap. A scrape from falling, he grit his teeth as Pryce sighed. "To become strong, one must also care for himself… sit."

The boy sat on a nearby flat boulder. Pryce went on one knee as he dug into his bag. He pulled out a tonic, opening it and spilling small drops over the scrape. A quick burn and Lance winced. Pryce followed with a bandage over the wound, silently wrapping it around. Lance took off his coat and placed it over his dratini – who quivered from the cold air.

"What are you doing? You will get sick!" Pryce scolded. The carelessness of this child over his health!

"Dratini hates the cold," Lance mumbled. "He will shiver if I don't keep him warm, and he is hurt too."

"Do you not use a poké ball for him?"

"He doesn't like it much."

"Hnn, even so, you shouldn't risk yourself."

"But shouldn't we for our pokémon? They are our friends."

"We must coexist in peace with them, life is important no matter its form. From the most fragile as oddish, to the most powerful as lugia."

Lance frowned. "Then I will protect those lives."

The memory came to close, like a stage play pulling down the curtains. Lance hadn't changed since then. The past was left behind as Pryce focused on the present. Lance was still in his deep sleep, jumpsuit removed and upper body exposed and covered with bandages. It was near night and he hadn't awakened yet. The Gym Leader did not take his eyes off of him. The town meeting had gone smoothly, but the International Police still made their presence clear and there were loose ends. Debris from the earlier explosion was still being cleaned up, it would even make headlines tonight into the morning. Pryce did his best to answer questions and advise solutions, even with Looker partaking in the discussion. But something was amiss, he appeared concerned over something else. Once the meeting was over, he dialed a number through the phone and sighed over the lack of response.

When Pryce inquired of the matter, Looker was quick to dismiss that it was nothing. Not long after did he leave with his croagunk. Pryce then suspected, that he was looking for Lance and wondered about his whereabouts. He could have told Looker then and there, but what explanation would be said regarding Lance's state at that time? It would just throw more questions. Then there was the matter of his clan, although Kaburagi assured him he would take care of that.

Pryce rubbed his temples, it had been a long day. He still wondered why he continued to pry into Lance's affairs. He was old enough to handle things on his own at this point, was it due to his unease? He had known Lance as a child, maybe it was too late to walk away. He was part of his life, whether he liked it or not.

The home phone rang, Pryce turned away from the bed and picked up the call. "Hello, Pryce speaking. Ah, it's been a while… how are you old friend?"

The murmurs spread through the room, reaching Lance. He wrestled with his eyes to open. "Mmm…"

"…Yes, it was a bit of an accident, but don't worry. He is resting at my place for a while." Pryce gripped the phone. "He'll be back in shape in no time."

Lance woke up, eyes staring at the unknown ceiling and lights, then at the bed – the surroundings were foreign.

"…Hah! Well, you know how your grandson is, he loves to train. Even where he has a disadvantage. The Ice Path has become his favorite, so it seems…"

The murmurs became clearer into words. Lance was alert, eyes widening.

"…I understand, I'll be sure to tell him… mm-hm. Very well. Have a good night." The phone was hung up, Pryce ramping up attention on Lance.

"Humph, you've finally awakened," he grumbled.

"…P - Pryce?" Lance asked in disbelief, he rose up with the strain. "Gah… where… wait – where is - !"

"Rest, you fool!" Pryce shoved Lance back on the bed. "Do you realize the predicament you have put yourself into, Lance?! I even came up with an excuse to your Grandfather as to why you are not back at home!"

"No… Team Rocket…"

The old gym leader facepalmed. He pulled up a nearby chair and sat with his cane. "Generally, I'm a patient man. But, after what has happened I've lost all sorts of patience with you."

He placed a poké ball on the nightstand nearby. "Here is your companion. Kaburagi tended to his wounds earlier today."

"Dragonite…"

"As for last night, worry not about Leader Jasmine. She is safe and back in Olivine City."

"Wait… how do you – "

Pryce ignored his question and went on. "You should thank her when you have the chance. She saved your life, Lance."

"What?"

"Do you not remember anything from last night?"

Lance collected his thoughts, staying silent. He looked down at the bandages all over his chest.

"You fainted after the scuffle with Team Rocket at their secret base under Mahogany's shop. Had Jasmine and Dragonite not escaped in time, you would have burned to death. It was destroyed. And not just a base, but a business - affecting an innocent family."

"…"

"Now Team Rocket's whereabouts are unknown, while you took their bait as the sacrificial lamb. They were prepared for you, Lance. Why else would they return? Yet you went into Mahogany Town headfirst like the stubborn imbecile you are!" Pryce yelled, he stomped his cane to the floor. "What were you thinking?! Why do you continue to fight criminals under dangerous conditions?! Why can't you just comply with the laws instead of playing dress-up as some crazed vigilante!"

Lance closed his eyes. "I…"

"Is this the life you have chosen? Are the titles of you being champion of our region along with a Dragon Master not enough for you?! You have achieved enough as is! I know that you have been ambitious at a young age but, are you so egotistical to continue to strive beyond your limits?!"

"You're wrong…"

"Then tell me, what do you plan to achieve?! I have tried to give my best advice on the path to walk in, but you continue to ignore them!"

Lance huffed. Pryce needed to understand there was more beyond a simple champion title. "Someone has to do something about the welfare of people and pokémon across the region."

"Your principles of justice, are not absolute! If risking your own life for the delusion of this justice is that important, then you have lost your sense of self!"

"Enough! I am only doing what must be done! I will not back down on what I believe in!"

"Your risk almost cost Leader Jasmine's life, and yours…" Pryce shook his head. "You have dragged someone innocent into your affairs."

He was right, no matter how much Lance wanted to twist that truth. That statement was absolute. Was he that reckless? There was no backing down on this one.

"You can ignore that fact and continue your senseless behavior," Pryce warned. "Or stop and rethink what your actions have brought. Do you believe your grandfather would be accepting of this, knowing of the high expectations your clan has?"

Lance gripped the sheets over him. His mere fixation on silence had Pryce stand and sigh.

"Well?"

"I'm sorry for this," Lance whispered with guilt. "You should have not been involved and neither should Jasmine. I'll be sure to leave soon and write Jasmine an apology, you don't need to keep protecting me, Pryce."

"Is that your response? You're not going to at least think about what I said? And you are the one who trespassed into Mahogany Town, my home."

"You know I have always respected you, Pryce. You have done much for me, and I suppose I am ungrateful. However, I have chosen my path. I won't stop fighting against the injustice that harms our people and pokémon."

"Stubborn brute of a man! At this rate, you only ask for death! Fine, if this is the path you chose then do not drag me or Mahogany Town further into the trenches of your demise!"

"What is the name of the family who lost their business?"

"Hmm?" Pryce was taken aback by the sudden change of subject.

"I want to contribute financial aid," Lance said softly. "It is my responsibility after all. I am the reason why the shop collapsed, it's the least I can do."

"Humph, I see you're at least willing to make amends. But first, call your grandfather as he is very worried. Next, you should thank Leader Jasmine through either a phone call or in person. She was courageous enough to get you out of the danger you were in. Know that she may never forget that night either. It is up to you to see where you go with that from here, a simple apology letter isn't enough." Pryce slipped away into the kitchen, the need for a calming cup of tea was urgent to his frustration.

Nightfall crept. The Light Room was the brightest in the lighthouse. While the rest of the day Whitney helped Jasmine with duties along with listening about the trip to Blackthorn, Jasmine could not forget what happened earlier. Clef rested in her poké ball. Dratini mostly slept at his pool. In fact, she hadn't seen him come out since she reprimanded him. Clearly, the dragon was avoiding her.

Perhaps I was too harsh, she thought.

"Hey, Jasmine? You all right?" Whitney asked, noticing her spacing out.

"Ah… yes I'm fine."

Whitney made a snort, placing a hand over her friend's shoulder. "Hey, listen. If it's about earlier… don't worry about it. It was just a bad start! I'm sure they'll become good friends one day."

"But it wasn't right and…" Jasmine trailed off with worry.

"Hey! Quit being a worrywart, Jazzy! Things like this happen! Baby pokémon can be unpredictable when they're not in battle, y'know?"

"They are quite young…"

"Exactly! Maybe they just need more training first before they can interact, so cheer up!"

Whitney's enthusiasm hit Jasmine like a wet towel, she did not make much comment. Whitney frowned upon this, contemplating another way to lighten up the mood. As Jasmine was deep in her thoughts, something sat over her head. She felt the textures - soft and round, before eying the visor. "Ah!"

"Ah, now I got ya!" Whitney beamed a wavering smile on her cap over Jasmine's head. "Always does the trick!"

"Whitney! It's ruining my hair!" Jasmine's usual winged ponytails sat flat. Her face flushed crimson with embarrassment while her friend laughed. Laughed. The nerve!

"Heh, we've been doing this since we were kids! Have some fun a little!"

"Whitney!"

"Oh, do you look cute with a hat on. You should wear them more often!"

"Oh…" Jasmine hid her eyes under the visor. Her friend giggled. "I just wanted to help you, Jazzy."

Jasmine looked up, Whitney showing her dimples was apparent. She rubbed the cap smoothly. "It's okay… there's no need to be worried. Just relax, all right? Things will get better, I promise."

"No, you're right... Whitney. I shouldn't worry too much. You're trying to make me feel better too... you always have... thank you."

"Now that's the spirit!" Whitney had returned to her bubbly self. Now that Jasmine felt better, she twirled around. "Well, it's been fun. I gotta go. My parents invited me to their place for an event tomorrow. I better sleep early!"

She waved and ran to the exit. "I had fun with you though, let's hang out again sometime! See ya later, Jazzy!"

"Wait, Whitney, your hat!" Jasmine yelled, it was still over her head. Whitney chuckled. "Keep it, I'll come back for it another time! Bye!"

She left, running down the stairs over taking the elevator. Jasmine was left bewildered, blinking as Amphy noticed the cap over her. "Kyuu?"

Whitney's mind roamed of earlier as she reached the first floor. Particularly Jasmine's shyness over the cap on her head was adorable. Jumping on the final step, she giggled. "I'm so glad I was able to make Jazzy smile!" She reached the exit and something vibrated in her pocket. She pulled out her rumbling Pokégear. A call from an unknown number, but picked it up nonetheless. "Hi, this is Whitney!"

"…"

"Hello?"

"…"

"Hello? Is anyone there?"

The call disconnected with a fast click, leaving Whitney bewildered. "Huh?"

"Leaving already Whitney?" Myron asked, holding a heavy bag of pokémon food bought from the local Poké Mart.

"Uh, yeah! Good night…" She waved a farewell to avoid any further insight. It was such a strange moment. Myron nodded as he went to the elevator. Whitney looked at the caller ID, the number was one she hadn't seen before. It was from Blackthorn City. She scratched her head, wondering who the caller was.

"Must've called the wrong number."