Chapter 4:
"A pro-Kanto Champion would serve us well indeed," Giovanni mused as he watched Arthur through the screen, his own form being rendered a dark silhouette to not give away his identity, which was likely only known to his Admins and Executives. Well, he knew too, but it's not like he could use that fact without getting into trouble. "But to become someone who can not only reach the current Champion but beat him? I doubt there are many trainers with the quality and resources to do that, especially now that the Blackthorn brat has taken over." He spat out that last part with clear distaste, but Arthur couldn't help but nod at that.
Lance wasn't someone to take lightly, even now when he just ascended to the title of Champion. Considering how he managed beating the former Champion with a massive disadvantage in typing from what he'd heard, Arthur had no idea who the previous Champion was canonically but this sounded a lot like Pryce, and wouldn't be dethroned for years to come, that one Arthur knew, it was a fair assessment to say it would be hard to take him down. But with vast knowledge, the backing of a rich organization, and a few years to prepare, he believed he could do it. No, he knew he would do it. If he got Giovannis approval, that was.
"So, tell me, boy; why should I take the risk to support this endeavor? There have been many that tried to sell themselves as capable of reaching the skies, but how many of them have crashed and burned? This would cost me money, manpower, perhaps a few favors, and a promising agent from what I've heard off." Giovanni asked him.
A side-glance to Archer, who'd remained stoic since the meeting started but now looked at him expectingly, told Arthur that this was his chance to try and gain their boss's favor. Probably his only one at that. "Because it's a risk worth taking, sir," he answered confidently. "A position of such power guided by you can only improve Team Rockets standing." Handing a notepad to Archer who stood beside him, he continued. "I can imagine how this must sound like, hearing a literal child say he can become the best. That's what every child says and wants. But I'm not asking for unreasonable amount of support. All I ask for is a chance. If that is too much to ask for, then give me the opportunity to prove myself. You heard about my performance and it sounds like it wasn't enough. So, test me before giving me your support on this. I know I can do this if you let me."
The boss said nothing, instead looking at his Admin for his input. Archer briefly went over what Arthur handed him before looking up with an assessing look. "There are a few suggestions that should be in the realm of possibility without using up much of our resources, if we decide to go along with them. All of them optional, of course. From what I've seen and what the teachers at the academy told me I'd say that this might be our best chance to insert another of our own onto a public position for the time being. The way Recruit Anderson trains and battles is exceptional, not just for our standards. While I doubt we'll get a Champion out of this, a high-ranking Ace Trainer, Gym Leader or even Elite Four member would be a great asset for us."
Giovanni rhythmically drummed his fingers against his desk. "Is that so … which ways of support has the boy come up with?"
"Aside from an initial capital to leave a little cash after getting all the basic equipment, a monthly allowance of about 3000 Poké is the only direct financial support he requests. That can be circumvented, however, by getting him a sponsorship from one of our contacts. This in turn would also give him public recognition, which leads to more attention and support the further he makes it." Archer stated matter-of-factly. "Other than that, he's requested some additional resources for training his Pokémon, which I believe we have enough recordings and books of to give a set away. In case we want to grant him a strong head start, I suggest putting him as in intern in one of Kanto's Gyms, which shouldn't be all that hard to do. Last is a request to get access to buying off or directly requesting certain Pokémon off us. Since the money will be kept in-house, I don't see a problem with that either." His eyes widened just a little when he added the next part. "In case of failure, there's also a clause written down to repay expenditures from our side with interest, set at 25 percent."
"Hmm …" Giovanni's silhouette laced his fingers in thought. "I believe this is a topic worth discussing. Archer, send me a copy of those notes and schedule a meeting for all our Admins and Executives. Until then, proceed as you will."
Archer nodded at that. "There is another thing Recruit Anderson requested."
"And what might that be?" Giovanni addressed him once again.
If Giovanni was going so far as to call a meeting with everyone important then he must've made a strong impression on the man, Arthur thought. While he'd have liked more than he'd written down, he could make it work without that. In case he wouldn't receive more than the chance to try, he'd other plans to get financial support from corporations, public figures, and even professors. With his opportunity seemingly secured, he could work out how to approach the big names he wanted support from. If Giovanni didn't grant him the freedom to go out and be a public trainer for Team Rocket though … no, there was no point in thinking about failure. He would succeed in getting Giovannis approval and then prepare to take down Lance. But whatever came after that relied on what he'd be told now.
"Sir, I'd like to ask what the goals of Team Rocket are." He waited a moment for that to sink in before continuing. "I've of course heard a few things in the academy and felt the purpose many recruits share, but I hope you'll tell me your vision." He'd thought about this often, about what the goals of all this were. Money, power, influence, destruction, dominance, and so on. Which is why he stood sharper than ever when Giovanni responded.
"A good question, I must admit. One that not many dare to utter," Giovanni answered with a hint of satisfaction in his voice. "Team Rocket was initially intended as an organization that should influence and support Kanto from the shadows. The Madame, the founder and former leader of Team Rocket, decided that there was more to be done than what the officials were doing during the war. Subterfuge, sabotage, theft, a whole underground network of agents that would do what our leaders didn't have the guts to. After the war and the disadvantageous position Kanto had found itself in after Samuel Oak stood down from his position of Champion, we changed."
Archer nodded at that while Arthur listened with great interest. This sounded a lot different than some thieving organization only out for its own gain. "With the clear favor going towards the Johto-side of Indigo, Kanto suffered. Our hard-fought victories were never appreciated publicly. No, we were condemned for our 'dishonorable' acts by those in power instead. All the while money and resources were drawn from Kanto. Which is why we now seek to remedy that."
Arthur couldn't help but nod along. Those were actually some understandable reasons, but were their methods justifiable? Didn't they steal resources from the citizens of Kanto as well? "We do that by showing the people of Kanto that the Indigo League cares less about them. We attack and undermine the league, give support to those who need it by accepting them into our ranks. When the people of Kanto see that they're not protected, not supported, they will see somethings wrong. When we show them that the league is weak, powerless to our doings, they will want to revolt, break free from the shackles and fakeness that is Indigo. And when it comes to that, we'll be ready to strike."
Hearing Giovanni talk made Arthur realize just why he was the boss and why there were so many joining Team Rocket; the man was charismatic, had a plan, and the power to follow up on it. This was admittedly scary, if impressive, which's why Arthur catalogued everything he heard while trying to not let it sway him. He didn't believe that breaking Indigo in two and possibly starting another war was a good idea, but with how frustrated Giovanni and many others must be, he could understand their reasoning. No, what was needed instead was a leadership that cared for the two regions equally. He didn't know how things would change under Lance, but he knew that him taking the Champion title wouldn't stop Team Rocket from doing its thing.
"I see … thank you for telling me, sir." Arthur responded with a bow. "This gives me a lot to think about, but only reinforces my proposal from earlier."
He heard the man behind the screen chuckle. "I'm not surprised. This has been an … interesting meeting, recruit. Admin Archer will let you know what we'll decide upon. Whatever the result may be, I expect you to continue doing your best for Team Rocket."
Giovanni and Archer seemed to share a glance, the later just slightly smiling as the screen went black and Arthur let out a huge sigh, he didn't know he's holding. He hadn't expected to have a meeting with Giovanni just a week after requesting it, but the earlier the better, he thought. Now all he could do was wait and draft up some ideas.
It unnerved him to no end that he hadn't received an answer to his proposal even half a year later. It sounded like the higher ups would talk about it not soon after the meeting, but either it wasn't that high on priority and thus delayed far back, or they're messing with him. Since he'd been busy with taking and teaching classes, especially those for recruits that were in their last semester, he only got so far with doodling up some of his ideas. Pokémon to catch, routes to take, places to explore, people to talk to. He's sure that by grabbing some valuable stuff and Pokémon from certain places he'd solidify his worth and increase the support he'd get. Places like Grandpa Canyon, the Crystal Onix's cave and the like were surely not found yet, perfect for him to come first. But it'd all be for nothing if he didn't actually get to go out. The suspense was killing him …
"Arty, earth to Arty, you in there?" Jessie suddenly said as she waved a hand in front of his face, causing him to fall of his chair in surprise. "Hehe, it's always funny to see your reactions like this. A shame I won't be able to after today."
Right, it was graduation day, which explained Jessie's get-up. Gone was the training uniform of a recruit, replaced by the classic black uniform with a big red 'R' on its front. She had the accompanying hat on as well, though she didn't seem to like it much as she shoved it one way only to position it differently seconds after. Somehow, she put all her hair inside it as well, which was likely the cause for her clear discomfort with it. How she managed to do that he didn't know, but it was impressive nonetheless. The uniform was also more akin to the ones in the games, which is why she was dressed a little more modest, with the long-sleeved top not showing off her arms and midriff. The skirt was still short though. With how much he'd supported both her and James, he wondered how long it'd take them to get promoted and if they'd get their signature white uniforms once that happened.
"I'm sure this won't be the last time you get to scare me like that," he said and got back on his chair after picking up the pen and notebook he dropped. "Although I could certainly live without it."
"Don't be like that, you love having me around. But I hope so, although I doubt we'll get back to the academy anytime soon. And if your little plan does work …" she answered with a pout. Jessie had been adamant about adding him to their team, but none of them had any influence on that.
He finished up the thought he was writing earlier. "Then I'll be around all the region, just like you. So, there'd be a chance we run into each other, but nobody has told me anything about whether or not the idea was accepted."
"Eh, they'd be stupid not to," the voice of James ringed out behind him and he could see him looking over his shoulder. "No offense, Art, but I'm really happy we got print-outs from your classes. How you can decipher any of that is above me. And what's that over there? A Raticate?"
"It's an Arcanine …" he grumbled as his cheeks flushed. That was his best one yet!
Jessie broke out laughing while James did his best to fake it as a cough. "Of course, what else could it be, how foolish of me."
James wore the same grunt-uniform as Jessie, trading the skirt for a pair of pants, and was currently holding onto his hat. "The ceremony's been nice and all, but going into field tomorrow first thing in the morning is a bit early if you ask me."
The ceremony had been a short affair of congratulating the passing recruits and condemning those that failed. There hadn't actually been many who failed, the only one coming to his mind being that guy that challenged him back when he had held his first training session. A short speech about how they could now support Team Rocket had followed, and the better they performed the greater their rewards would be. A simple but effective way to motivate everyone for sure. Afterwards was a buffet with nicer food than they're used to at the academy and that's it. Everyone that passed received their uniforms and the ceremony was rounded off by Admin Archer talking about some people that had good chances of being promoted soon. Both Jessie and James, as well as Butch and Cassidy, had been part of the few names mentioned, which understandably put the two in high spirits.
"And here I thought I'd get the chance to get a nice long beauty-sleep, oh well. But before we leave there's something important you have to know, Arty." Jessie sighed before turning dead-serious as she and James got closer, building a group-circle with him. He looked like he was about to comment on the 'beauty-sleep' part, judging by how he chewed on his lips while grinning, but he wisely kept it to himself.
He's wondering just what was so important, but once she started, he couldn't help but stare at her, completely flabbergasted.
"Without us here you'll need other people to talk with, and there are a lot of girls your age around. You know, Arty, when two people like each other very much-"
"You don't really want to give me 'the talk'," he interrupted her, and while he knew well enough about any of that he still felt the warmth creeping in his face. He cursed his slowly upcoming hormones. One puberty was bad enough, but having to go through all that again? That was the only saving grace of Jessie and James not being around when it came up full-force, he was sure he couldn't deal with their collective teasing.
She gasped in mock surprise. "But Arty, this is really important! Do you have any idea how popular you are with the ladies? The moment I'm gone you'll be swarmed by them!"
James nodded along with a huge smirk. "Yes, indeed. So, we have to be the responsible ones and tell you what to look out for-"
"No, stop, don't," he interrupted once again, cringing hard. "Please, just don't. I know what you want to tell me, so you really don't have to."
Snickering, James tilted his head towards Jessie. "See? Told you he knew. Art is more mature than you give him credit for."
"Aww, you're no fun. But you should look out regardless; girls can be mean, especially when they don't get what they want."
"Speaking from experience, hm?" James turned his teasing towards her, which earned him a sharp jab in the side.
Arthur sighed. "I think you're overplaying this way too much. I seriously doubt there will be anyone coming after me all of a sudden. And besides, after today the only girls left here are too young for me anyways." That may have sounded odd, but considering that he had to be older than he looks, he put the bar for dateable ages a bit higher for when he had to breach that topic in the future. Though he doubted he'd have the time for that with all the work he'd coming up for himself, if he went out in the world. Keyword being if. His memories had grown a bit fuzzy over the past months which is why he didn't remember much about, well, himself. But he distinctly remembered drinking in his past world. The thought of forgetting himself shook him when he first realized he had holes in his memories. It also gave him a reason to start writing down relevant information in case he forgot. He'd been scared about doing that in case someone found his notes, but considering no one had managed to decipher his notes and doodles as of now, he felt a bit more confident about that.
He felt James patting him on the back. "Oh, Art, you sweet summer child. If only you knew … but what was that about 'too young for you'?" James mustered him before grinning widely. "Oh, so you're into older woman, eh? Hey, that means you finally got a chance to date a decent guy, Jess." James received another, harder jab for that. Hard enough to break apart their little circle as he slumped down in pain.
"Shut up, James. I just want to save our little Arty the heartache, you know how exploitable he can be." Jessie huffed angrily and kept her eyes on the downed James.
She received a grunt of approval from the downed James, to which Arthur just rolled his eyes. "This and that are two wholly different things. If what James' said is true, you should rather look out for your-" he stopped when she stared daggers at him. "Anyways, what do you guys know about your mission?"
"Nothing big for now, just a reconnaissance mission between Celadon and Fuchsia to get along with our third team member," James said as he slowly got back on his feet. "No idea about that one, we're just going to meet them tomorrow."
If things went as he knew, that would be Meowth, the Meowth. They all usually got along even if they bickered among themselves, so he had no doubt in this staying the way he knew. How the Pokémon would react to him once they met? Hopefully in a positive way. "Sounds like a nice area to be around. Are you guys allowed to capture Pokémon for your team as well, or does everything you catch need to be sent back?"
"As Grunts, we're only allowed the personal Pokémon we received and those lent to us. We can try to convince the higher-ups to let us keep common Pokémon if we believe that they're more suited or attached to us though. Everything else is restricted to Specialists and above," James cited out of the small handbook he'd taken out just as Arthur raised the question.
"Promotion, here we come," Jessie cackled darkly, the thought of being allowed to keep rare and strong Pokémon went right over her head.
Looking at the time, Arthur put away his writing utensils and clapped his hands loudly. "Well, I wish you best of luck from here on out and hope that you'll get along with your team mate. But I shouldn't keep you any longer if you have to get up early tomorrow."
The other two looked at the nearby clock as well before sighing. "You're probably right about that. Take care of yourself, Art," James said and pet his shoulder as he got ready to leave.
"And don't let the girls steer you around. The only one allowed to do that is me," Jessie added and ruffled his hair energetically. He couldn't wait for a growth spurt to prevent that.
"You too guys."
And so the duo departs. When will they return? Surely soon enough to tease Arthur about his predicament dealing with puberty, right? Right?
Thank you for reading!