Dew. Typical for the grass at the Lake of Rage during mornings. In today's instance, Pryce didn't care about it. Nor for the fishermen around the lake's shore. It was high tide and the magikarp were in large quantity. One fisherman pointed at the lake's center. He spotted the tip of a gyarados' blue crest wandering in the water. Another possible catch, but one to avoid from aggression.

As morning routine, Pryce enjoyed brisk walks among the lake while his piloswine would dip into the water. He loved to bathe early in the morning, but they were not alone in their visit.

Lance sat at an old bench, far from everyone else. He had departed Pryce's home first thing at dawn. Pryce objected from the injuries, but when he turned away – Lance was out the door. Frustrating. He hadn't recovered yet, the excuse was that he wanted fresh air. In what condition was he to take a morning stroll? He clutched to his chest and limped when he walked out! Rest should have been the prime goal.

When the Gym Leader arrived, he planted his cane near the bench. Lance did not flinch. He had a fresh pair of clothes and an ironed cape over his bandaged body. Pryce mused if Kaburagi visited earlier while he was asleep for the change of clothes. Piloswine went to the shore, dunking his feet and tusks into the lake. He splashed himself, enjoying the cold water over his body. Pryce sighed.

"I could have opened a window if you wanted fresh air," he said. Lance made no comment.

"You should be resting, Lance. Doesn't hurt to move? Did you even eat yet?"

No answer. Pryce eyed the bench after hearing it squeak. "That bench needs to be repaired. It's going to break apart, it's old and vandalized."

"It still works," Lance muttered. He didn't care about the writings all over the bench. Or the rusted nails keeping the dead wood altogether.

"Do you plan to return to Blackthorn City in your current condition?"

"No, I talked with Kaburagi earlier this morning. Clair has retaken command of the crisis. He wants me to stay here for the time being."

Pryce snorted. "Even your most trusted confidant wants you to stay put. Wise man, you are in no condition to do anything. You must heal. Even if it means sacrificing several days."

Lance clenched his fists, he would go insane from that. Time was too precious to waste. With him backed to the corner, what other action could he take? He wanted to curse himself for the present situation. From the crisis to his duties as Champion of the Indigo League. The thought of doing nothing was harrowing.

"I hope you take this as a learning lesson," Pryce scolded. "Next time, think thoroughly of your actions. You have set yourself up for mental torture. And you out of all people, detest standing idle. Don't you?"

Lance glared.

"Don't give me that look. You brought this mess yourself and others are cleaning it up. Clair is working twice as hard for Blackthorn and the League. Take others into heart!"

"Enough of that Pryce," a voice said. Pryce's eyes broadened at Clair walking up to them. "I think my dear cousin has dealt with enough already."

Her tone was rather sarcastic, she placed hands on her hips. "Well, Lance? Was this your way of teaching me a lesson for the other day? It's sure a poor one. So much for you taking charge, as Grandfather hoped."

Lance looked away, this conversation would not end well. Had Kaburagi told Clair that she knew he was here?

She sighed. "Look at all the work you left me. I'm exhausted just thinking about it."

"Nice to see you, Clair," said Pryce. Not far behind was her signature pokémon, Kingdra. The water dragon-type made her way to the lake's shore.

"I managed to sneak in some free time for Kingdra. My poor pokémon has been working hard," said Clair. "And, to give my idiot cousin a piece of my own mind."

It would lead her to recognize her cousin's achievements and his status, but Clair could care less about her own ego. It didn't match up against the sheer rage. She crossed her arms. "I don't have much time to waste, so I'll make it quick. Kaburagi told me everything. You have a problem Lance, a big one. The size of your own damn gyarados. Not only do you overwork yourself, but you also had to play as a superhero. For all the so-called great work you do, you definitely lack common sense. Going head-on to a secret base, you didn't think Team Rocket would have any countermeasures for you? You made yourself known to them after that mission with Lyra! I don't want to hear any excuses for your damn stupidity!"

Pryce nodded in agreement. He believed Clair's anger was justified. It wasn't farfetched for her to know about it. Being Lance's cousin, she would know most about Lance's secrets. She was trusted by Lance – despite their differences. Being family, her outburst displayed an inner concern she secretly harbored for him. She did not outright show it, but it was there. The familial love was plenty - leading to her perturbed outburst.

"Clair, I'm well aware of my actions." Lance's scowl worsened, he had enough reprimands from Pryce.

Clair discarded his words. "Oh, don't give me that bull crap! Grandfather has been worried sick about you! Kaburagi has been working his ass off to keep your damn alibi! Tiamat is upset you didn't visit her in the holy land! You also got Jasmine into this mess! Do you realize what this opens up to?! This could affect your title as Champion, and screw things up for our clan!"

"Clair…"

"Why do you have to handle these issues by yourself?! Why can't you accept that you… have achieved enough as is! Why can't you… rely on me and others to help you?! Do you want everything you… worked hard to crash down?! Because by the looks of it – "

"Enough."

Lance didn't like to raise his voice, but his anger rose like fumes. With the outcome of the mission, along with the disappointment from those he cared for… he could no longer hold it. Was the stress eating him away this much? Or was it something else? Lance dreaded it, and he was swimming in it. It felt horrible, bringing him memories of past failures. Most of the time, they were met with displeasure. It was never sufficient, even with the amount of effort he put in.

As a boy, he would cry silently from failure. As he grew older, it became tolerable. Yet, the pain never subsided completely. More so if it was something personal as this. His mind jumped from thought to thought over the errors. If only he had planned more thoroughly during his second invasion of Team Rocket's base. Maybe then, he could have foiled their plans perfectly and prevented further damage. Maybe he could have stopped the deaths and poisonings of those dragon pokémon prior if he had enough knowledge. Along with the anguish and horror, the residents of Blackthorn experienced. The place he loved dearly. Everything could have been stopped. He could have known sooner, he could have had…

…what good came from looming in regret? Everything up until this point was set out. Nothing could be done but to march on. At most, he realized this. The two who stood in front of him, helped him reach that conclusion. They were only expressing their concerns over his well-being. Clair and Pryce were harsh with their words, but… they cared.

He would have to sit back and rethink. Anything to get back on track and earn back the respect of those who mattered to him.

"…I know what I did was wrong. You don't think I feel horrible?"

Clair's kingdra swam gracefully in the lake, feeling refreshed. She dove deeper and blissfully ignored Piloswine splashing water toward the shore. Her trainer and Lance were caught by the sudden shower. "Hey!"

It wasn't much, Lance was unfazed. Clair shook her fist at the pokémon over being wet. "Watch it!"

"Piloswine is having fun," Pryce chuckled. He was the driest, feeling only sprinkles.

"Ugh…" Clair wiped the water off her face. Her cousin continued his speech.

"I am not a perfect man," Lance stated. "No matter how many achievements I've made. The illusion of greatness is just what it is, an illusion. I still have much to learn. Therefore, I'll own up to those mistakes. I'm sorry if I put you and the rest of the family through all this. It wasn't my intention, you know that."

Clair flipped one of her bangs before giving a huff. This was not an immediate fix. But what could her injured cousin do but offer apologies? Even if it was genuine, she was still angry. "Then prove it with action. Considering you're a stubborn man, I find it hard you'll listen. But, I'll give you a chance. Do me a damn favor and rest up. Then once you feel better, you can fix the crap you have put us through. Until then, just… stop pushing yourself too hard. Team Rocket won't get away with what they've done. I… I can't believe I have to say this… but Blackthorn still needs you, Lance."

She looked away, slightly embarrassed over the speech. It wasn't her strong suit to display admiration and respect for another, as she reserved it for herself. "Also, you can't hide this forever. Grandfather will find out about your escapades soon enough, and he won't like it. When that day comes, don't say I didn't warn you. You better speak with Jasmine too now that she knows your secret."

"I have tried calling her. Instead, I got someone else on the line."

"Then Pryce should give you her number. If you excuse me… I am going for a short walk myself. I need a break from all this. I'll come back for Kingdra in a bit." No more was said. Clair turned away with her cape facing Lance in the breeze.

"Thank you for inviting us. I appreciate this opportunity."

Lady Zuki slipped a grin at Morty. She, dressed in her traditional kimono and face enhanced by makeup, bowed. "Leaders Morty and Jasmine, I thank you for joining us in prayer." Her umbreon followed his trainer with a similar gesture.

She was pleased that some of the Gym Leaders were available to attend. She made this event public in the region, and her sisters helped with advertising when possible. Their meeting was at a holy ground in Ecruteak City. Bestowed was a long stairway up to an ancient shrine, its torii gate stood above. It was recently renovated with a fresh coat of orange paint. Active and open as people and pokémon passed through. Some eyeing statues of the legendary beasts and birds around the gate – relics that have existed since the shrine's creation.

For Morty, this was another way to relish in Johtonian tradition.

For Jasmine, this was a path to calm a worry she had.

The memories were still intact of that night. Of Dratini disappearing. Her encounter with Team Rocket, and of course…

…she tried to think positive. But she couldn't shake about what happened to Lance. The injuries he went through just to protect her from harm were brutal. Added to her what she just learned.

Jasmine had heard of the stories and abhorred crime. But, she did think she was good to fight against them. At best, she tried to avoid any sort of trouble. Yet, even in the distance, the stories passed through. Of a vigilante tackling the underground terrorist organization that rampaged the region. The Lake of Rage and Goldenrod Tower events – were the crux of the tales. In variations, he was called a mad man for acting as a one-man army against Team Rocket. They made him sound like he was deranged. A dangerous one.

Never did it occur in her mind that the tales were true. That the vigilante in question was the current Indigo League Champion.

She had opened Pandora's Box. She sensed Lance would probably speak with her soon. Should she contact him first? But of all things, that wasn't important now. Instead, she clung to a hopeful prayer. She would not express it to anyone, but to herself. Not that anything too eventful was happening in Olivine. Gym battles had slowed down, and the Lighthouse duties were left with Janina. She could sneak out.

"I should be thanking you," Morty said. "I can only hope this quells the fears the public has had from recent events."

"My wish is that this achieves a unified harmony for people and pokémon," Zuki explained. "Our hearts have been broken by the deaths and poisonings of those innocent dragons at Blackthorn City. We must heal ourselves."

Her eyes set on Jasmine, who bowed out of courtesy. Nearby, another guest was behind them. Bugsy read a text engraved on stone about a small shrine that was gifted by a neighboring region.

"May this shrine be a reminder of our ties to the ancient world. From the quiet Celestic Town, Sinnoh region…" Bugsy finished.

"Um… Bugsy," Jasmine said, hoping to catch his awareness. "It's about to start."

"Oh, right!" He ran to catch up. "I am sorry! I've just been so fascinated by the architecture…"

"It's all right Leader Bugsy," said Zuki, smiling sweetly. "We can speak much more about its historical significance later. Let us begin the prayer. We haven't a moment to waste."

"Is this a good idea? To intrude on such a sacred prayer?"

"My... Will, we are here to pay our respects. Is that not a good thing?"

The purple-haired man pressed on his mask over the bridge of his nose, sliding it upwards. He could sense the murmurs and whispers around the wooden shrine. It was a magnificent view. The ancient building had been around for centuries, standing tall under its wooden structure and gabled roof. Elevated by steps as a gateway to it. There were decorative stone lanterns on each side, followed by smaller shrines. Even wooden plaques of wishes and prayers.

He fixed the handkerchief over his neck, while his bird pokémon stood still… focusing on the sun.

He was the first of the Elite Four trainers would face in the Indigo Plateau, but he was here instead. Will was dragged into this event when he felt inclined to stay back on the plateau and train. While no new trainers were being accepted for challenges currently due to the Champion's absence, he saw a chance with honing his skills. It was postponed with the dire news about the poisonings in Johto.

The woman next to her trainer looked back at the pokémon. She twirled a lock of her periwinkle hair. She was the force behind the idea and the Elite Four's strongest before the Champion. "Are you sure Xatu will be fine here, Will?"

"If you're that concerned, you can have your houndoom watch over her, Karen."

"I ask because there are people around. Someone may mistake her for a lost pokémon or try to steal her. Not many, however."

"Ecruteak has a low crime rate. I see a couple of stantler here too. More people are focused on them. She'll be fine."

"Oh right, I forgot that stantler love to visit these holy places," replied Karen.

A woman dressed in a kimono approached them. She had similar features to Lady Zuki with the makeup and hairstyle but was shorter in height, and her kimono was pink.

"You have come just in time, Elite Four Leaders Will and Karen," She greeted with a short bow. "We welcome you. I am Lady Naoko, one of the Kimono Girls."

"A pleasure being here," Karen greeted. Will returned the bow out of respect. "Our honor."

"It is wonderful for you to join us in prayer for the innocent pokémon lost due to the poisonings. Please, follow me."

She brought the two to a fountain near the entrance. In the shape of Ho-Oh, water poured out of the mouth like a waterfall.

"Before you pray, it is important to cleanse yourself," said Naoko. She pointed to the ladles that rested over the hard bamboo that laid flat on the fountain. "After all, we are to ward the evil spirits before prayer."

"I haven't done this in such a long time," Karen said. "I might need a refresher…"

"The holy water is to cleanse our mouths and hands," Will explained, dipping his ladle into the pure water. "First, you scoop water from the basin and pour a small amount onto your left hand…"

"…then you pour the water on your right," Naoko added. "Afterward, you must rinse your mouth."

A young man was overhearing their conversation close by. His blue eyebrows were drawn out in a perpetual frown. Gym Leader Falkner had no knowledge of Will and Karen attending to the prayer. While the event was publicized – it brought no indication of the Elite Four partaking in the matter. Not that attending events was uncommon for them, but it was out of the blue.

"Lady Naoko, have you invited the Elite Four?" He asked. Will saw his outfit – which was more formal than usual wear. The addition of the black hakama pant skirt to his blue kimono signaled the different occasion for the prayer.

"Ah, Leader Falkner – forgive me. I forgot to tell you. Elite Four members Will and Karen are here to attend today's prayer. I hope you don't mind."

"I see. But, it would have helped if they wore the correct outfits for this event."

His sharp tongue had the Elite Four members notice the displeased look on the Gym Leader's face. Was it seen as an offense? After all, most here were dressed in more traditional clothing with kimonos, along with hakamas and haoris.

"Apologies," Will lamented. "Perhaps we should have prepared – "

"Oh Leader Falkner, anyone is welcome to the prayer whether dressed accordingly or not," Naoko chimed in.

"But Lady Naoko – " Falkner argued, he was cut off. "Leader Falkner, I respect that you wish to continue our tradition. You are very much like your father when it comes to formalities but... it's not needed."

She placed a hand on the Gym Leader's shoulder. "Plenty of Johto's holy sites invite those from many backgrounds to visit. Even if they couldn't bring the proper attire, their presence is enough. I am sure the spirits of the gods are pleased."

It was her final answer, and Falkner could not debate it. Lady Naoko knew what was best for the sacred place. At least, to argue with the Kimono Girls wouldn't bring a pleasant image. His father taught him not to bestow shame. Falkner conceded.

"I understand, Lady Naoko."

"Ah, dear Sister Naoko, I see you have brought the Elite Four guests and Leader Falkner?" Zuki interrupted with her arrival at the shrine. Behind were her own visitors she picked up.

"Sister Zuki, I have!" She turned with a grin.

"Falkner, it's so great to see you!" Bugsy greeted. "You look quite nice! Dressed for the occasion?"

"Looks like we're not the only ones who dressed casually," Will said. When Falkner realized the scope of the situation, he turned away with embarrassment. Was he the only one who dressed up?

Morty chuckled. "It's just a prayer. Not a funeral."

"I - simply wanted to show my respect!" Falkner retorted to the tease by his friend.

"Oh…" Jasmine mumbled. She saw Will and Karen next to him, sensing familiarity. "You must be – "

"I think you have a good idea of who we are," Karen interrupted with a smirk. "It's been a long time, Jasmine."

"Oh, um! Yes…" Karen observed Jasmine's shy demeanor. It was almost endearing. "How cute. You don't need to be shy with us. Of course, if you are with Will… I don't blame you for that mask he wears!"

Will shook his head over the playful statement. "Really Karen?"

"As much as you all would like to chat," Naoko interjected. "We must begin."

The prayer would begin as planned. A brief commencement speech was held by Lady Zuki over the crowd in attendance.

"People and pokémon of Johto… we hope that for this day, we take a moment of remembrance," Zuki said toward the end of her speech. "As well as any prayers you wish to make, we must remember the faith that has held this region together. It keeps us strong, we will not falter to any further despair. We, as a region… must overcome any atrocities that come our way. Come, brothers and sisters… let us pray for strength and new beginnings."

Incense burned around the shrine as a purifier. Several reached the fountain to cleanse themselves. Karen's purification was complete when she placed the ladle back on the wood. The remaining water on the ladle rinsed down on it. Near the entry of the shrine's hall of worship were statues of Lugia and Ho-Oh, acting as guardians over the sacred place. Jasmine made an offering to the gods with a coin at the oratory's offertory box. She tossed the coin where it landed inside. Bugsy followed the same.

Morty shook the nearby bell in front of the oratory with the rope. It was essential for the prayer to further ward off bad spirits. There was a chime, indicating he had shaken it correctly. "That should do it."

Shortly after, the three Gym Leaders made two deep bows in salutation. With this, their prayers would be heard from above. They clapped their hands twice in appreciation, they were set to pray. It was mostly silent, aside from chatter around from the crowds of people and pokémon. Jasmine closed her eyes, saying the following in her head.

Arceus… Original One. Please… care for the fallen souls of those dragon pokémon. Ho-Oh… Guardian of The Skies… please lead them to Arceus. If not... Lugia, Guardian of The Seas... let their souls be cleansed by the ocean waves of their pain.

She wanted to keep the prayer brief. Her final wish was for Lance's recovery. Jasmine may have found out about his dark secret, but she was worried about him. From her brief discussions with him and Kaburagi, it seemed too great for her to forget at this point.

"She's quite deep in prayer," Karen whispered while in line, observing Jasmine.

"The recent news has affected this region more than you think," whispered Will. "I can't imagine what Lance must be going through…"

"I am sure he is doing what he must. It has affected Blackthorn City most of all. I suppose it'll put a damper on any challenges for a while."

Jasmine made a final bow to conclude the prayer. She looked at the oratory one last time, then turned away.

With the prayer event nearing its end, Jasmine rested on a nearby chair. She watched the cherry blossoms flutter in wind, much like snowflakes. They were mostly seen as decor for the shrine, but she was entranced for a minute.

She dug into her dress pocket and pulled out Dratini's poké ball. She had carried him here, she refused to leave him alone in Olivine. He had gone missing once, she could not risk him disappearing again. Then came his most recent behavior. Fighting with Whitney's cleffa displayed a developing problem. Dratini was rebellious as of late.

"You seem deep in thought," Karen said, standing in front of her. Jasmine yelped, startled by the Dark-type trainer. She almost dropped Dratini's poké ball!

Karen laughed. "You know, it's rare for someone to catch my interest. Did you mistake me for a ghost pokémon or what?"

"Oh, no! It's just you snuck up on me!"

"Hah, fair enough. Plan to return to the Olivine Gym soon? You look like you want to battle if you have that out."

"Um…"

"I like that in a trainer. Or, should I say Gym Leader?"

Jasmine bashfully played with Dratini's capsule in her hands. She wasn't sure what to say. "I… well…"

Karen placed a hand over her cheek. "Oh my, you're not that social are you?"

"I'm sorry… do I… give off that impression?"

"Hmm, now that I think of it… you remind me of him."

"Huh?"

Karen took a seat. "I am talking about Lance. You know, our region's Champion? That man is hard to read sometimes, he's always to himself. I'll give credit that Lance is good at what he does. He has great skill in pokémon battling but he sucks with social activity. Sometimes, he just leaves my texts on read. I invited him to this event and he hasn't responded! He must be so busy."

"I see…"

"I suppose that is the burden of being the Indigo League Champion. It is no wonder the previous one left without a trace. Word has it he is out in Mt. Silver training, but who knows? It was smart on his part. Much better to live your life free to your content than under the chains of society. But he left the inevitable to Lance. He was left to carry all that weight on his shoulders, you know? Must be so stressful. It's… almost sad."

The glimpse into the harsh reality of a Champion pulled Jasmine further in thought. More so with the last sentence. She was already upset about Lance's physical health – but was he doing well mentally?

"At this rate, Lance will grow into a bitter old man," Karen added. "He's going to drain himself in all that work… how will he even find a wife? Since he's from a prestigious dragon clan, his grandfather wants him to take over and continue the bloodline! As if Clair can't do the same. As much as I don't like to say this, I am grateful to not be restricted by high expectations from my family. They're rather liberal, I guess... but I'm fine with that. I'm not a traditional person anyway."

"You sure like to talk about Lance's life, Karen," Will remarked, returning his Xatu to her poké ball.

Karen frowned at his comment. "You know, it's impolite to eavesdrop on a conversation between women."

"Well, the event's almost over and I just happened to be within range. We should be leaving soon."

"Already? Can't I relax?"

"Then I'll leave you be, but I'm out. This was a nice event, but I'd like to train. I can't let myself get rusty when challenges happen again."

"I hope you haven't forgotten about that fundraiser that takes place after," Karen reminded. "I'd like to report to Lance we did something in his absence."

"Oh, right…"

Karen crossed her arms, tapping her foot. "You're no fun, Will. There is no need to be uptight like Lance. There is more to us as the Elite Four than just pokémon battles and training. At the bare minimum, we can at least set an example and participate in Johto's events and charities."

"Fine, I concede. Where is this fundraiser taking place again?"

"That's more like it." Karen got out of her seat. "Well, I must be going. It was a nice chat, Jasmine. Should you ever wish to challenge the Pokémon League, you know where to find us. I'll be waiting."

"Ah, yes… take care!"

Karen made a sneaky wink as a final farewell, departing with Will. In turn, Jasmine blushed. As if Whitney's own playful mannerisms weren't plenty.

"I never thought the members of the Elite Four would come," said Morty. In place of Karen, he showed up, holding a treat he received from the nearest concession stand. "They're not in public often."

"Oh… hello Morty," Jasmine addressed. Her face returned to normal color now that she was with someone familiar.

"Hello, Jasmine. Did you enjoy the event?"

"I very much did, thank you." Out of courtesy, she bowed. "I really appreciate that you messaged me about this event. I'm so glad I came."

"Think nothing of it," Morty replied. "I figured a sort of nice get-together for us Gym Leaders was something we could use. It's just a shame that not everyone came."

"Whitney is with family today. I am not sure about Pryce or Chuck. And we know what is going on with Clair…"

"At least some of us made it." Morty chewed on the treat he held. A skewer holding three dangos dipped with sweet sauce. Back of him, his gengar rose up from the concrete tiles of the ground. He ripped the dough ball off of Morty's skewer to slurp it up.

His trainer pointed the treat at Jasmine, with one last dango at her disposal. "Want one?"

"No thank you," she replied.

"These are so good!" Bugsy cried cheerfully, indulging the same treat. Falkner had tossed his empty skewer to the nearby trash. "I really shouldn't be eating these."

Morty chewed on the last of his dango. "Then why did you buy one?"

"To support local business," Falkner murmured. He sat next to Jasmine. "I hear you got a new pokémon. Is that true?"

Jasmine blinked. "New pokémon? You mean… my dratini?"

"A dratini? So, you're training a dragon type? Interesting."

"Right, I wanted to ask you about that," Morty added. "Is it true? I heard Champion Lance helped you out with your dratini a while back."

"Oh, you... know about that?"

"Whitney told us."

Jasmine wanted to sigh, Whitney was like an open book for secrets. Now it appeared most of the League knew of her dratini. They were even curious about it. "He did… why?"

"Just wondering. That's pretty cool, does he plan to teach you how to care for dragon types?"

"Um, I'm not sure…"

"He's the Champion. I am surprised he had time to give help," Falkner said. "You would think it would be Clair instead."

"Well, I did visit Clair the other day…" Jasmine mumbled.

"You did?" Bugsy asked. "During the crisis?"

"Erm, yes… but she took me in."

"How did it go?"

"Pretty well… she just gave me general advice." This was too much information. Jasmine hoped the topic to change. The prying was increasing and she wasn't fond of it. Morty sensed she was getting uncomfortable. To diffuse, he steered the conversation. "Seems like you have a lot to learn. I hope things go well for you and Dratini. I don't know much about dragon pokémon so I can't give much feedback. However, just be sure to form a strong bond with him. I am sure Lance told you the same. It's the fundamental rule to pokémon training."

"Do you plan to change pokémon types or?" Falkner asked.

"No, it isn't anything like that." Jasmine glanced down at the poké ball in her hands. "I'm not exactly sure what to do with my dratini. I would like to enroll him in contests in the future. However, it might not be a good fit for him…"

"Sounds like a good idea," Bugsy said cheerfully. "You won't know until you try!"

"At the end of the day, he is your pokémon," Morty added. "He may be a different type, but I am sure you and Dratini will figure out the right path to take. The more you train him, the more you'll understand."

"I wish you luck," Falkner said. He grinned. "Maybe once he's a dragonite, I could help with teaching some flying type moves."

Jasmine smiled lightly. She had received from positive encouragement her peers over raising her new pokémon. "Thank you." Maybe she needed to trust herself more with Dratini, and receiving the support may have pushed her to realize that.

Mahogany Town's streets were quiet at this time of night. Very few were outside save for the wild pokémon that lived in the nearby trees and bushes of the town, and the Lake of Rage. At the door of his own home, Pryce had unlocked the knob with a key. Despite hosting Lance at his home for recovery, he still had his Gym Leader duties and was out most of the day. Inside, he saw the kitchen light was on. He caught a whiff of the smell of bechamel sauce within. By the stove, Lance was stirring a pot. Near the kitchen counter were leftover ingredients. Mostly meat and vegetables.

"You have decided to cook?" Pryce asked with surprise. "Have you regained some of your strength?" He looked into the pot.

"What is that?"

"Cream stew," Lance answered.

Pryce wrinkled his nose from the smell. He stole the ladle from Lance to take a sip. Once in his mouth, his eyes widened. He wanted to spit it out from the taste but ultimately swallowed. "Arceus! This is horrible!"

"What's wrong with it?"

"Look at how watery it is! It needs to be thick, and the vegetables look raw! Were they even sauteed?"

Lance touched his chin quizzically. "Hmm, I should have stuck to the original recipe. I was trying to experiment..."

"No wonder it's atrocious." Pryce turned off the stove. "You go back to your quarters and rest. I'll cook dinner tonight."

To Pryce's own expectations, Lance sat at the kitchen table. The way back was a bit painful from the lack of strength, but he had powered through. Now he was lost in thought, sitting alone at the table for the next half hour or so. He was locked to a hardened stare across the room as Pryce redid the stew the proper way.

"Have you contacted Jasmine, yet?" He asked, after a long period of silence.

Lance responded by looking up at him with a coarse stare.

Pryce closed his eyes, before stirring the stew. "Did you get in touch with the family to help rebuild their business?"

"I have. Kaburagi will assort the funds out for me. They should receive the money soon."

"That's good. You should contact Jasmine when you can. I could arrange a meeting if you'd like – "

"No."

"What?"

"You don't need to do anything," Lance issued. "I'll take care of that myself." There was a slight twinge of sorrow in his voice. "She should have never been involved."

It was the most unprecedented circumstance that happened during his mission. How did Jasmine get into the base, or even know of its existence? Did she follow him or was she kidnapped? She was held hostage by Team Rocket, she didn't look involved in any of their malicious activity. It disgusted Lance that an innocent civilian was used for personal gain. Including her dratini. Was he going to be poisoned? He needed to know, Kaburagi said he would explain more once he recovered. Yet, he would rather speak to Jasmine himself. She had no place being there.

"What do you plan to do when you see her, Lance?" Pryce asked. "She knows of your charade. Will you have her disbarred as a Gym Leader from the Pokémon League for knowing the skeletons in your closet?"

Lance shook his head. "No, I just want information regarding her business with Team Rocket. I rather get it sooner than later. Jasmine must also keep the incident secret. It must not expand further to the rest of the Pokémon League."

"Is that it? You're going to continue with your unlawful enforcement, are you? Use her as intel and make her swear secrecy for the sake of justice? What about repaying her for saving your life?"

"I already said last night I'm treading down the path I've set. Regular law enforcement isn't enough if they are letting that terrorist organization run free. Also, I could send a gift to Olivine City as repayment. I am sure she would appreciate it."

"You care so much about the welfare of the region, that you're forgetting you almost lost your life. And you think a shallow gift is enough as repayment? How pitiful," Pryce grumbled. "If I were you, I'd think of something else."

"Such as?"

"Perhaps, help her raise that dratini. That is the least you can do after Jasmine saved you."

Lance crossed his arms. That proposal sounded preposterous, what further business did he have with Jasmine? It would only interfere with his work. "You know I don't have time for that. I have more important things at stake. Jasmine is capable enough to raise her own pokémon. She's the sixth Gym Leader of Johto for a reason."

"Don't be brash. Think here. Do you think you could push aside someone who just discovered your secrets? That won't end well."

"Explain. I have no desire for a personal connection to Jasmine aside from brief exchanges. What you're suggesting is something beyond professional means."

"A man can only go so far by sticking to himself. I see you're still hesitant to open up again after - "

"That has nothing to do with this."

His tone was aggressive, Pryce turned away from Lance's scowl to stir the stew again. I see it is still a touchy subject for you, Lance. He thought to himself. That particular time in his life wasn't to be brought up, not now. "Fine, allow me to make this argument. You fell vulnerable to Team Rocket when she was a hostage. You don't think they'll try to use her again to exploit you? She is a potential target for them now, you would be stupid enough to keep her unchecked."

Pryce was correct. These important details were in the spotlight. His glare disappeared and Lance pieced together that the issue was trickier than he thought. Somehow the alternative Pryce offered was more logical. Jasmine and Olivine City were on Team Rocket's radar for future terrorism. It would be unwise to distance himself.

"You're right. I can't turn my back, not with Team Rocket knowing about her. More problems could arise in the future."

"Then you know what you must do. Helping her raise the dratini makes you less suspicious to the public if you're that concerned. You get to strengthen ties further with the Pokémon League should you interact with the other Gym Leaders more. A stronger union within the League leads to a stronger Johto. There's your added benefit if you are truly so keen on protecting the region."

The idea was so enticing that he was considering it. Lance would have to form a sort of relationship with Jasmine. At best, familiarity to earn her trust and ensure safety for the Johto region through an alliance. The perfect opportunity was around for him to take. He glanced at the calendar on the wall, the featured image was of the Glitter Lighthouse of Olivine City.

The choice was clear.

A/N: This story is not dead. Slowly but surely, I'm making progress! Apologies for the long wait if you're a veteran reader. If not, welcome aboard!

In this chapter, I wanted to delve more into Johto's traditions and customs. Most of it stems from its real life influence, Japan. For example, the prayer event in Ecruteak - is loosely based on how shrine visits and prayers work in Japan. Considering Junichi Masuda stated in his director notes Johto is based on the Kansai region, I figured it would be appropriate. The stantler mentioned by Will and Karen is a reference to how deer are considered sacred in Japan. They are seen as messengers to the gods under the Shinto religion and are common in some shrines. Also, Dango are rice flour dumplings on skewers. Sometimes dipped in syrup or sauce.

Bless the game Tetris for helping me get through the drafts for this chapter because it was tricky to write... yeah, I played it during breaks. I've always liked old games. To quote a song, "I am the man who arranges the blocks..."