[Got another chapter for you all. Let's get right into this. Hope you all enjoy. Note: I do not own Pokémon. All rights to it's actual owners]
[Characters within this chapter:
Flara (Braxian)
Ema (Emolga)
Tony (Monferno)
Spark (Pikachu)
Snive (Servine)
Dew (Dewott)
Tepper (Pignite)
Prince (Prinplup)
Mr. Emboar (Emboar)
Lucy (Gothorita)
Kayla (Slyveon)
Batty (Alolan Persian)
Elizabeth (Liligent)
New Characters]
Chapter 20: Detective Dew Is On The Case!
(Tony POV)(Morning)(Ocean Salt Diner)
"Come on Spark, you can't beat yourself up over this. We all make mistakes." Dew stated, trying his best to cheer up his downtrodden leader who had his head laid on the table while giving off a depressed aura. With everyone having returned from their trips either last night or this morning, we all decided to grab some breakfast the next morning and talk about our weekends before going back to the guild for classes. We were currently in the same half circle booth as last time sitting in the order of Spark, Dew, Snive, me, Flara, Ema, and Tepper, with Prince working but standing next to Spark to talk with us for a second since it was a pretty slow day. Prince currently had his fin on Spark's back and rubbed it to comfort him.
"He's been like this since yesterday." Prince stated, feeling a bit sad while looking at his boyfriend.
"You did what you could though. And what you did was more than what a lot of Pokémon could accomplish, believe me." Flara stated, bringing a smile to my face.
"And from the sound of things, you probably knocked that thief flat on their ass. Serves 'em right." Tepper boasted with a snort, getting a giggle out of Ema.
"Plus, it sounds like it was mainly Gurdurr's fault for blocking you. Muscle-head could never read a room." Snive stated while crossing her arms.
"Ooo, we should get back at him by pranking him." Ema said mischievously. This earned her a resounding "No" from everyone at the table, though it was clear that Tepper wanted to agree but knew it wouldn't be right. This had caused Ema to pout and cross her arms in defeat. "Party-poopers."
"She was disguised right?" I asked.
"Yep." Spark answered, finally lifting up his head to rest his chin on the table. "Covered in a cloak. All I got to see was their white claw. They also may have had a feminine voice."
"Spoink didn't get a clear description either, it all happened so fast for her." Prince stated, looking away in disappointment.
"Possible female…white claw…ice type moves…hmm." I pondered.
"Everything okay Tony?" Flara asked with a bit of concern and curiosity in her voice.
"Everything's fine, I just got a theory about something. It's not worth sharing now though." I reassured her with a small smile before leaning over and placing my hand on my face in a thinking pose.
Could it be..?
"Theory you say? Got a detective's intuition as well?" Dew stated with a bit of excitement in his voice. This had caused Snive to groan.
"Arceus…I thought you grew out of that dumb 'Detective Dew' phase." Snive said annoyed. The name alone had broken my train of thought and made me snort.
"I'm sorry." I said while laughing a little. "Detective Dew?"
"It's my alter ego. An ace detective ready to bring justice." Dew explained while standing up and striking a pose. This got a laugh out of everyone except Snive who just rolled her eyes. Dew, unfazed by the laughs, hops back down to his seat and turns to Snive. "And it's not dumb or a phase. In fact *gets a bit closer to her, causing her to tense up* I think that you were preeetty into it."
"P-puh-lease, like I would." Snive denied though I could tell she was lying. She was trying to put on a front that he wasn't getting to her but her slight blush gave it away.
"I think it's pretty cute Dew." Sally said, getting everyone's attention.
"Ah, see, someone likes it." Dew said happily, not noticing the glare that Snive was giving Sally who only smiled sweetly in return. "Thank you Sally."
"Anytime Dew. Anyway, I'm taking off. See y'all next time." Sally stated with a wave goodbye as she took her leave. While everyone voiced their goodbyes, I noticed Snive glaring at her harder and growling a little. I discreetly kneed her to get her attention. When she looked my way, I gesture over to Dew and mouthed "Be Honest."
"I-it's not that I don't like it." Snive spoke out, bringing everyone's attention to her. "Y-you can be pretty smart when you do it…"
This stunned Dew for a second, it had stunned everyone else but me as well.
"Wow…did you just compliment me? About 'Detective Dew' of all things?" Dew questioned, causing Snive to blush a bit more.
"…maybe." She responded in a low tone.
"I'd never thought I'd see the day. Who are you and what have you done with Snive?" Dew questioned jokingly. Snive quickly lost her blush and snapped her attention back to him.
"Oh, well maybe I just won't compliment you anymore if that's the reaction I get." Snive stated, returning to her usual demeanor as she folded her arms again and pointed her nose into the air, away from Dew with a "Hmph."
"No no no, I-I'm joking. You can compliment me anytime." Dew quickly stated upon seeing her reaction.
"Hmmm, maybe. I'm not gonna spoil you though." Snive stated, a small smile appearing on both her's and Dew's face. She looked at me discreetly and I discreetly gave her a thumbs up and a smile.
"*cough* Simp. *cough*" Tepper said quietly with a slight laugh.
"Oh you have no right to talk bro, we've all seen how you act with Ema." Flara joked, getting a laugh out of the group and embarrassing Tepper into blushing. While everyone laughed, Spark still seemed a bit down, something Snive also caught onto.
"Anyway, I think I got something that could definitely cheer you up Spark." Snive stated before smiling slyly at me. "So Tony, anything interesting happen to you over the weekend?"
"Interesting..?" I questioned for a second before realizing what she was referring to. "Oh yeah, I got banned from the Arbor Area."
When I casually said that, Flara had an entire spit take as she was drinking at the time. She coughed out for a second before joining in the shock that almost everyone had, even Spark had fully sat up and lost his sad expression.
"You're banned? B-but…how!? What did you do!?" Flara exclaimed, causing me to shrink a little in her gaze as I tried to avoid it by drinking my drink.
"More like what did she do? Snive's Mom exaggerates almost everything all the time." Dew stated before quickly turning his attention to Snive. "No offense Snive."
"Non-taken, that's my mom for ya." Snive stated casually.
"Eh, I've been banned from that place since the end of the Darkrai biz. Welcome to the club." Tepper said, shooting me a smile and a thumbs up. "I knew you were going to be awesome."
"Honestly not one of my best moments." I said sheepishly, still feeling small from everyone's gaze, especially Flara's.
"So what happened? I gotta know this." Spark said.
"Well, as opposed to one of the normal, boring banquets my mom throws…" Snive began.
(One banquet battle story later)
"Wooooah, that fight sounded awesome!" Tepper stated, hopping out of his seat.
"Sounds like you really gave it your all, both of you." Flara stated.
"I did, but this dude here still mopped the floor with me." Snive stated with a smirk while pointing a vine at me. "Had burns all over my body all night and into yesterday."
"If only we all were there. Now I gotta take you on. I learned a new move on my trip that I would love to test out." Dew stated, pulling out one of his scalchops and tossed in the air to casually catch.
"Luck was on my side that day. That banquet fight was actually meant for you." I said truthfully, surprising Dew and especially Snive who snapped her head to me with wide eyes.
"For real?" Dew questioned.
"Oh yeah, Snive wanted you to go and be your opponent. It's why she set it up. Honestly, with both your skills, the battle may have been better than ours." I stated, motioning to me and Snive who was trying to hide behind her drink, now blushing heavily.
"That true Snive?" Dew questioned with a small smile. She looked up at him and sighed.
"Yes…When I got control of planning for that banquet, I immediately thought of putting the battle in and you were the first one I thought of to be an opponent. It…would have been fun." Snive stated honestly with a smile. Dew blushed a little as his smile grew bigger. "Maybe another time."
"I look forward to it, though with you, your skills, and typing, you'd probably mop the floor with me." Dew stated modestly and sheepishly, scratching the back of his head.
"Oh definitely." Snive said bluntly, returning to her usual demeanor as she smiled slyly at him, giving him half-lidded side-eye.
"Ah, you weren't supposed to agree." Dew said in a fake hurt tone but also laughing a little, every soon joining in after experiencing such a cute scene.
"Your parties sound so fun. You gotta plan another one of those for us." Ema said excitedly before standing up on the seat and placing a hand on Flara. "Gotta show everyone that Team ElectricFire got that fight in us too."
"I-I don't know about all that. I don't think we're at their level yet." Flara stated modestly. "I'd be happy to watch though. I'm sure it'll be quite the show, which isn't surprising since you were involved Tony."
"Oh stop, Snive put in just as much effort as I did." I stated modestly, sheepishly scratching the back of my head as I blushed from her praise.
"Fighting wasn't the only thing he was good at that day. Turns out dude is a pretty good slow dancer." Snive spoke up. Everyone turned their attention to her as she motioned to Flara with her drink. "I know how much you like that romantic stuff. He may just sweep you off your feet."
This statement had both Flara and I blushing, Snive throwing a sly smile and wink at me as I realized what she was doing.
"I mean…if another banquet like that happens…I would like to have you as a partner." I said nervously. "Though I still need a lot of practice."
"I…may not have a lot of experience but…I'll be happy to be your partner." Flara said, looking away with a cute, small smile and blush on her face, making me smile as well. Her eyes then widened a little. "Did…did I just say that out loud?"
"Yes, yes you did." Spark joked, now smiling slyly as a few giggles were heard around the table, deepening her blush.
"Also Sis, you don't gotta sell yourself short on the battling stuff, especially with what you did to that Sandslash the other day." Tepper chimed in, getting everyone's attention.
"Oooo, what happened?" Dew asked.
"Consider me intrigued as well." I smiled.
"Dang it." Flara said, looking away from me and saying something I didn't catch. "That smile…"
She then explained what happened to her over the trip, the training with her mom, the tribe of Sandshrew and Sandslash that got my blood boiling a little at the comments they said to her, and the moves she pulled off during her fight. Hearing what she pulled off had me smiling brightly.
"What I tell ya? Awesome right?" Tepper said excitedly, hyping his sister up before he pouted a little, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms across his chest. "Still doesn't want to teach me how she did it."
"It was pretty reckless though. I kinda got lost in the heat of the moment. You probably would've thought of a safer plan." Flara stated a bit lowly.
"If that's how you act in the heat of the moment, just imagine how much of a tactician you are when you're cool headed." I praised with a smile, catching her off guard. "First the Blowback Orb and now using your tremendous amount of power as a propellant to launch yourself. You're full of awesome surprises Flara. I would love to see you in action, whether it be as a spectator or as your opponent."
"…uuuhhh." Flara responded slightly speechless, blushing heavily on her face.
"Great, you broke her again." Snive joked. Ema snicker a little before slightly shocking her, snapping her out of her stupor.
"Ow, sorry, thank you. I-I don't know what to say." Flara stated, a little embarrassed. She then smiled at me. "It means a lot to me though. More than you probably know."
That contagious smile. I thought, soon becoming entranced by her.
"That's my leader for ya." Ema said happily, jumping up to give Flara a side hug which knocked us both out of the trance. "You better not underestimate her when you two really fight."
"I would never underestimate any opponent. Where would be the fun in that?" I joked. Suddenly, Flara's explorer badge began to ring. She went to grab it, the badge slipping out of her hand a few times before she finally caught it. With an embarrassed laugh, she opened up the screen to see that it was her dad calling for a video call. She soon answered.
"Hey Daddy, how's it going?" She asked, seeing that he was in his office at the school.
"Sweetie, question, the others wouldn't happen to all be there as well would they? I have something I need to share with you all." Mr. Emboar said. Flara then leaned forward across the table to place her badge there, allowing him to see everyone. Everyone gave their various greetings.
"Hey Pops, what's up?" Tepper greeted.
"Hey everyone, you guys on your way back to the school?" He asked.
"We're just about done here. Anything we can help ya with?" Spark asked.
"Got a surprise for all of you back here. Head straight for my office once you guys get here." Mr. Emboar stated with a big smile.
"Oooo, what's the surprise?" Ema asked excitedly.
"That would defeat the purpose. You guys are gonna love it though. See y'all soon." Mr. Emboar laughed before hanging up.
"Guess we should start making tracks then." I said standing up. "I'll go take the check-"
"No!" Everyone exclaimed, blocking me from exiting.
"You sit down, mister. We're not having you pay for all this again." Flara ordered, getting me to quickly sit back down. "We're splitting it from now on."
"Yes ma'am." I said complying, getting another smile from her which I returned.
"You can treat Flara later if you're feeling generous. I'm sure she'd love it." Spark joked as we all began to exit the booth, catching both Flara and I off guard.
"Spark…" Flara whined with the both of us blushing as everyone laughed.
"Looks like our old Spark is back, considering you're back to your teasing." I remark, embarrassed but happy that Spark was feeling better.
"Your stories definitely helped." Spark stated before motioning to Snive, Dew, Flara, and I as we finally got out of the booth. "Plus seeing the way y'all four act is just too cute for me to feel upset."
With that final tease, we soon paid for our stuff and began the trek back to school.
(Later, at Mr. Emboar's Office)
"So what the big surprise?" Snive questioned Mr. Emboar who was sitting behind his desk. Whilst Flara and Spark occupied the two seats in front of the desk, everyone else stood behind the two, with me standing a bit away from them while leaning against a wall.
"Starting off, I'd like to present you all with these. They finally arrived." He stated excitedly, bending down behind his desk. Soon, he came back up with two gold boxes, sliding them across his desk to the two team leaders. "Open them up."
"Wait, you don't think…" Dew stated, excitement slowly raising. Curiosity getting the best of them, Flara and Spark opened their respective boxes. Inside, both leaders found scarves, two in Flara's and four in Spark's. The excitement getting the best of them, Ema and Dew leaned over their respective leaders' shoulders. Upon seeing the contents of the box, Dew grew a wide smile. "I knew it!"
"Dew, give them some spac-" Snive stated before cutting herself off when she walked up to them and saw the contents of the box herself. She too then pushed past Dew to lean down. "Oh shit."
"Yo, make room." Tepper stated, coming to the opposite side of Spark, a large smile appearing on his face when he saw what was inside.
"Ah! Our's looks so cool!" Ema yelled excitedly, having already taken out her scarf and admired it.
"I know right." Flara said, sharing in the excitement.
"Heh, I had the same feeling when I got my explorer scarf." I said with a content smile in a reminiscing tone, looking up in thought. "Another milestone in the life of an explorer."
Whilst everyone else converged around Spark to talk about their scarves, Flara had grabbed her own scarf and stood up from her chair, quickly walking up to me with an excited and cute smile on her face.
"So, whatcha think? Would love your opinion on it." Flara asked happily, presenting her scarf to me with both hands. Looking down at it, the design consisted of the letters T, E, and F, obviously meaning Team ElectricFire. The uppercase E was backwards and connected to the F, their top and back lines forming the T. The E was yellow and had sparks going around it while the F was red and was on fire. The T was black with the top cut short to have the tips colored yellow and red for each respective letter. The base color of the scarf was white.
"Now that's awesome Flara. You designed it?" I questioned, causing her to look away shyly with a blush on her face.
"Yeah…I actually took inspiration from your explorer scarf." She stated shyly with a blush.
"Really, even though I'm not the one who designed it, I'm flattered and I'm pretty sure Vixie would be too." I stated sincerely, taking off my scarf and looking at it. Whilst the base color of the scarf was black, my explorer team logo consisted of an uppercase T and U. The top of the T was in front of the U whilst the bottom of the U was in front of the U. The T was white and covered in icicles whilst the U was red and on fire. Looking at it got me in a nostalgic mood as I began reminiscing positive memories of my explorer life with Vixie, my guild members, the Pokémon of Treasure Town, and even Jack to a lesser extent.
I miss them. It's been too long. I gotta get in touch with them soon.
"Hey, you okay?" Flara questioned, breaking my train of thought. I looked back up at her to see her with a slightly concerned look on her face.
"Huh, yeah I'm good. The energy you all are giving off just got me reminiscing a bit." I said sincerely with a smile, hoping to quell her worries.
"Okay, I just remembered what happened last time so I just had to make sure. You being upset is the last thing I want." She stated with a hint of worry still in her voice as she looked away. I smiled again and placed a hand on her shoulder. This got her attention, getting her to stiffen slightly before she looked back up at me.
"Thanks for the concern, but I'm all good here. No bad thoughts here." I stated.
Especially when you're filling them. She then gave a small smile and blush which I returned with my own as we fell into a brief but warm silence.
"Yo Tony, you gotta check ours." Tepper said, suddenly appearing next to me and wrapped an arm around my neck to pull me closer, which broke Flara and I's silence. While I think he did this on purpose, given how hard he was holding onto me and the threatening grin he was giving me, I didn't mind too much since I did want to see their logo and I have a feeling I know why he's really doing this.
"Tepper, let him go! You're always doing this." Flara scolded, seemingly annoyed as she pouted cutely.
"It's no harm sis." Tepper stated innocently as I looked up at Tepper to see him smiling innocently with his eyes closed. "Just keeping things in check. You know how some Pokémon-"
"Let him go, now." Flara said simply, cutting him off. Our attention went back to her and we both stiffened in Fighting type fear when we saw her. She had pulled out her staff from her tail, holding it in both hands. Her eyes were glowing a pinkish, purple glow and the front of her staff glowed the same color with energy swirling around it. Tepper quickly let go of me and raised his hands in defense, clearly intimidated. I, however, was more mesmerized and intrigued by the aura she was giving off.
Her mother did say that her staff unlocked a limiter of sorts. She's clearly got a lot of power. Gotta talk to her about this later on.
"Good." She said simply with a smile and closing her eyes, turning off the glow and energy in her eyes and placing her staff back in her tail. She then opened her eyes to see me staring at her, now blushing a bit. "W-what? Did I do something weird?"
"No, that thing you just did was just cool." I stated sincerely with a smile. This caused her to stiffen again and blush harder.
"You really should check out our emblem though. It's pretty awesome as well." Dew stated, coming up next to me and holding out his team scarf so we both could look at it. PPD's emblem showed two circles, one inside the other. The inner circle was cut into four quadrants. Each quadrant held the symbol for the four types that represented each member of PPD; Electric, Water, Grass, and Fire. The quadrants were also colored in their respective typing. In between the circles was "PokéPark Defenders" written in white lettering, PokéPark being on the top part of the circle and Defenders being on the bottom part. The base color of the scarf was black. "Pretty sick eh?"
"It is, love how it represents all of you." I stated.
"Thanks, knew my design would be awesome." Dew said with a cocky grin.
"My mom's painter actually drew the final design. Thank Arceus he did." Snive stated in a relieved tone.
"Oh come on, my original design wasn't that bad right?" Dew asked, looking around at everyone in the room. Everyone looked away in hopes to avoid eye contact and have to tell him the truth, leaving me confused. Seeing my confusion, Spark walked over to me while pulling out his explorer badge. Scrolling through a few tabs, he wound up on his photos and after a few more scrolls, he showed me the original design, making my eyes widen.
"O-oh, well…it certainly is…unique?" I stated with a head tilt, unsure how to properly describe it without hurting his feelings. Dew quickly went up to us and pushed a button on Spark's badge, shutting it off.
"I-it was a work in progress." Dew stuttered out, embarrassed. This reaction got a good laugh out of Snive which Dew responded to with a glare at her. She only laughed further at how he looked.
"Ah I love seeing the faces of new explorers receiving their emblems. I'm happy you like them." Mr. Emboar said, gaining everyone's attention. "Passing team's are supposed to be getting them today if they did what they needed to before. Luckily, your teams were the first and earliest to prepare so I thought it was only right that you got yours first."
"You're the best pops." Tepper stated happily, everyone else also voicing their gratitude.
"Giiirl." Ema called out to Flara, excitedly running up to Flara with her scarf in hand. "Help me tie this around my neck. I wanna see how I look in it."
"*giggle* I gotchu. Pass it here." Flara said whilst putting her staff back in her tail and grabbing Ema's scarf.
"While they do that, there's another surprise I have for you all. After much discussion between the faculty and the success we had with the test, we all decided to allow a select few teams to be allowed to take on missions for the school." Mr. Emboar explained, shocking everyone except for me.
"Wait wait, by 'select few teams..?'" Snive started.
"Do you mean..?" Dew continued, a bit of excitement in his voice as Mr. Emboar smiled brightly.
"Both of your teams were selected to participate in your own missions." Mr. Emboar stated proudly.
"Hell yeah!" Dew yelled out in excitement, pumping a fist into the air. Tepper threw his arm around his neck to join him in cheering.
"Gonna probably be low ranking missions though." Snive stated before shrugging. "I guess we gotta start somewhere."
"With our team and work ethic, we'll be doing tougher missions in no time." Spark stated happily.
"That's so awesome!" Ema yelled out after Flara finished tying up her scarf. She then turned to her leader. "Looks like Team EF is gonna make its mark on the world sooner than we thought."
"So soon though..?" Flara questioned a bit hesitant. Seeing the look on her face, I could already tell where her mind was heading. I tapped her on the shoulder to get her attention.
"Flara, you already know what I'm about to say right?" I asked a bit cheekily with a smile. She looked away shyly and had an embarrassed blush on her face.
"'You won't know unless you try?'" Flara said hesitantly, looking up at me with a look that made my heart skip a beat.
"And?" I continued in the same cheeky tone.
"I believe in myself." She stated, having a bit more confidence in her tone as she smiled when I did to her answer.
"Exactly, you and the others got this." I stated, getting her to smile brighter.
"To continue…" Mr. Emboar said, getting back Flara and I's attention. We looked back at him to see him giving us a knowing look with a raised eyebrow. Seeing the look, Flara and I took a quick, simultaneous step away from each other. Seeing the step, Mr. Emboar smiled. "Team EF will be joining other teams in a week after we've gathered enough low rank missions for everyone. For Team PPD however…"
With a pause, Mr. Emboar went into his desk again before pulling out a piece of paper, placing it facedown on the table. Everyone looked on in silent curiosity. "Take a look Spark."
Spark reached forward and grabbed the paper, turning it over for everyone to see. It turned out to be a bounty mission sheet, showing details of a robbery that took place in the Tech Area and that a Spoink is looking for the Pokémon who stole her pearl…
Wait…
"I-is this what I think it is?" Spark asked, everyone looking towards Mr. Emboar while thinking the same thing.
"I heard about what happened to you back in the Tech Area. I commend you for what you were able to accomplish with your chase." Mr. Emboar stated.
"I didn't do enough though…" Spark replied sadly, hanging his head slightly in shame. Everyone looked a bit downtrodden in his change of mood.
"You've done what a lot of Pokémon wouldn't have the courage to do, especially rookie explorers. You should be proud of what you've done Spark." Mr. Emboar stated sincerely, slightly raising Spark's mood. "And because of that, plus your team's shared bravery, I believe your team has the capabilities to take on this mission."
"Hell yeah we can! Let's go find this thief!" Tepper yelled out enthusiastically, beginning to quickly make his way to the door.
"Right behind you. Let's go get them." Dew said, following behind Tepper.
"Hold it you two, there's more to explain here." Mr. Emboar laughed, getting the two to stop mid stride and bring their attention back to them. "I love the enthusiasm but there's something more I got to talk to you about in regards to the mission."
"Like how it's a Gold rank mission while we're a Normal rank team." Snive stated having picked up the bounty letter from Spark and read it herself. This comment had surprised me and also Flara and Ema based on their reactions.
"Yeah, I noticed that…" Spark said, crossing his arms. "Aren't there rules about missions and the ranking system?"
"Oh, right, I was definitely gonna ask about that." Dew stated, smiling sheepishly.
"Heh heh, glad you all have been taking your classes to heart." Mr. Emboar laughed. "Yes, this mission is classified as a Gold rank mission. This is because the outlaw is an unknown figure and seems to be somewhat of a professional. The authorities wanted to be on the safe side and I fully agree with them. Normally, your team would never be able to take on this mission given the rules. There is an exception to this rule. If an explorer of an equal or higher rank were to accompany you all…"
"Then we would be able to take on the case!" Tepper exclaimed excitedly, Mr. Emboar sharing in his son's excitement.
"Exactly son." He responded.
"But we would have to find someone who would be okay with going with us." Snive stated, now pondering.
"Yep, who could we..?" Spark started before Team PPD collectively got the same idea. They all slowly turned their attention to me, slightly unnerving me with all of them smiling.
"Guys, you're creeping him out. Us too." Flara stated, sharing the same idea I had and noticing my feelings.
"Hey Tony…think you could do us a favor?" Dew asked. I already knew where this was going.
"I would love to go with you guys. But it's ultimately up to him." I stated, motioning to Mr. Emboar. "He's my boss here and has to be the one to give the go ahead."
"The reason I brought it up with you here is cause I wanted you to go with them." Mr. Emboar stated, surprising me. "I'm sure a young explorer like you would want to get back into the field every once in a while. And considering the amount of work you put in as a trainer, I don't mind letting you go take a mission."
"Wow, thanks sir. And yeah, being cooped up here is starting to get to me a little." I stated. While I did love teaching the new recruits, I still felt an itch to get back out and be an explorer. The mock mystery dungeon test didn't count for me since it was a controlled setting and wasn't for me.
"Plus, you have a connection to these teams and I have full confidence that you all will be in sync during this mission." Mr. Emboar stated before smiling sheepishly and scratching that back of his head. "And…I don't think their next option would be too popular."
"Who's the next option?" Flara questioned.
"Mr. Morington." He answered simply in his sheepish tone. Ema, Flara, and I visibly cringed.
"Absolutely not." Snive quickly stated, a frown immediately appearing on her face.
"I second that. That guy's a dick." Dew stated, a similar frown appearing on his face as he crossed his arms.
"Bro." Tepper started, looking towards me with a pleasing look in his eyes as I was taken aback. "You gotta come with us. That guy'll be a nightmare to explore with."
"Why him of all Pokémon?" Spark questioned.
"He's the only trainer that would be available on short notice, since I know you all would want to jump right into this mission." Mr. Emboar stated to everyone before looking towards me. "So will you take the mission?"
"Of course." I stated earnestly, a bright smile on my face as I saw everyone else's face light up. "Despite my rank, I'll be going as more of an honorary member of PPD though. Spark will be leading this mission."
"I won't let you down, Tony." Spark said, standing up and saluting me with a smile. While I rather he didn't salute, I let it slide.
"I know you won't. I can't wait to work with ya, all of you." I stated, extending a hand for him to shake which he did.
"Awe man, I'm happy you guys get to go on an awesome mission but I'm a bit jealous too." Ema stated.
"I'm sure we will get to their level in time, we just gotta work hard for it and believe in ourselves." Flara stated to her partner with a smile.
"Well said Flara. Keep those attitudes and you'll be there in no time." Mr. Emboar praised, beating me to saying it.
"Thanks Daddy." Flara responded. She then turned to me after she noticed me staring. I gave her a smile that spoke out a silent encouragement, which she returned in kind.
"Welp, I've taken up enough of your time. Team PPD, good luck on your first official mission and don't hesitate to request help. You got the backing of the Emboar Guild after all." Mr. Emboar stated with a wide smile while pointing a thumb to himself.
"We'll bring those thieves to justice Dad, quick and easy." Tepper boasted, flexing one of his arms.
"For that I have no doubt son. As for ElectricFire…" Mr. Emboar said, all attention falling on the girls. "You two still have classes to get to. I already notified your teachers so you won't get in trouble for being late."
As soon as he told them, a groan resounded between the two, both slumping a little in annoyance.
"Yes sir…" They both said sadly. I ended up giving Flara a comforting pat on the back while Tepper did the same to Ema.
"*phew* Definitely dodged that one." Tepper joked to Ema. She didn't seem to find it funny though as she pouted and glared at him, sending a slight electric shot to him as he patted her and caused him to recoil away with a quick yelp.
"Let's move out team. We got a mission to complete." Spark stated, the rest of his team and I nodded in agreement. We all said our goodbyes to Mr. Emboar before making our way out of the room. I was the first one out and as soon as I walked out, I nearly ran into a familiar Gothorita.
"Woah, oh hey, Lucy right?" I said.
"Yeah, it's good seeing you again Tony." Lucy greeted with a small bow and small smile.
"Good to see you too." I responded with a friendly smile.
"Oh hey Lucy! Long time no see." Dew greeted as the rest of us filed into the hallway.
"Got a meeting with Mr. Emboar as well?" Snive asked.
"Yeah, me and my team got called here for some surprise for us. And looking at the new scarves you all are wearing, I think I can guess what it is." Lucy said.
"Oh whoops, sorry about spoiling ya." Ema said sheepishly. "Just act surprised when he tells you."
"It's alright." Lucy said, waving Ema off. "They look great."
"They feel great too." Tepper stated, flexing his right arm up which had his scarf tied around it, whereas everyone else had theirs around their necks. "Can't wait to show this off."
"So where's the rest of your team?" I asked, my question immediately enticing a groan of annoyance from her.
"Sleeping in most likely, as usual." Lucy stated, crossing her arms. "Giri-*slight cough* Arceus forbid their beauty sleep gets interrupted, and don't get me started on all their morning beauty routines."
"Yeesh, knowing Elizabeth I can imagine." Snive stated.
"Sucks you gotta deal with that." Dew stated.
"But at least you're here on time. Plus, I know Daddy's pretty forgiving." Flara stated.
"I can only cover for them so much…" Lucy sighed before shaking her head to clear her thoughts. "Sorry about the rant guys. I'm sure you're busy."
"It's alright, we don't mind." Spark said sincerely, everyone else agreeing. "But we should really get back to what we have to do-"
"LUCY!" An angry voice yelled, everyone besides Flara and Ema knew exactly who was yelling, Lucy groaning as a result. She turned around, and everyone turned their attention down the hall to see a fuming Slyveon and the other two members of Team Cutesy teammates. Once she stomped up to Lucy, she spoke again. "What have so told you about speaking to the enemy!?"
"They beat us one time and they're considered the enemy? Why can't you just let it go?" Lucy questioned while crossing her arms.
"Of course they are. We have a reputation to uphold and that reputation doesn't include being friends with the lower classes or…" Elizabeth stopped for a second to glare at her cousin, who responded with her own glare. "*hmph* Disgraceful heiresses."
"They're all on my 'Haters' list." Kayla stated, stomping up Spark, glaring at him, and pointing a ribbon at him. "Especially this one."
"It's an honor." Spark stated sarcastically, glaring right back down at her. Team's PPD and Cutesy, minus Lucy, continued to glare at each other, a tension rising between them.
Alright, time to break this up.
"Guys, we shouldn't be doing this." Flara spoke up first, beating me to the punch again as she strolled up in-between Spark and Kayla, holding each paw on both team leaders' chests. "We shouldn't be this hostile towards each other, especially between exploration teams."
"Uh, who are you?" Batty asked, looking her up and down a bit insultingly and judging. I glared a little at him at what he could mean by that action.
"Uh, Flara." She answered.
"And I'm Ema, her loyal best friend and member of Team ElectricFire." Ema declared, hopping up to wrap an arm around Flara's neck whilst showing off her explorer scarf to everyone. She then nodded towards Flara. "She's team leader."
"Team ElectricFire huh? You two…" Kayla started, pushing Flara's paw off her chest before pacing around the two, eyeing them up and down and making everyone except Team Cutesy uncomfortable.
"Uh, what's your deal?" Tepper asked, ready to jump in case Kayla tried something funny. Kayla seemed to ignore the question though.
"Look like you'd be great and loyal fans of mine!" Kayla stated excitedly, her cutesy persona coming out as she hopped back in front of EF. The sudden change in personality had caught everyone off guard. "I'm the fabulous Kayla of the idol exploration team; Team Cutesy."
As she said this, she hopped back to her team and they all struck their signature poses, Lucy giving a halfhearted pose and looking embarrassed. The whole situation had caused everyone else to sweat drop.
"Yeah, we know." Ema stated bluntly, already not liking where this was going. Upon hearing this, Kayla's face lit up in joy.
"Already fans I see. That brings me such joy to hear! Fans like you two deserve front row seats for our shows when we perform. I'll be sure to remember you two." Kayla stated happily.
"I can't say that we're fans… We haven't really heard many good things about you all." Flara stated sincerely, shocking Kayla, Batty, and Elizabeth for a second.
"What?" Kayla stated surprised before reverting back to her idol persona, motioning to PPD and I. "Oh don't let those meanies fill you with dirty, wittle lies. Haters can be sooo mean to the popular."
"So true." Batty agreed, the same fake sadness in his tone as his leader.
"Uh yeah, I think I'm gonna have to believe my boyfriend on this one." Ema stated, hopping off of Flara to go stand next to Tepper. "And considering first impressions right now, I can see what he was talking about."
"Wha-? What baseless things has that…PIG said about moi?" Batty cried, a hand on his chest as he looked insulted. "And you're letting that *dry heaves* thing have his way with you?"
"The peasant masses can only settle for so much." Elizabeth stated insulting, waving a hand dismissively at Ema. "She lacks in the 'femininity' department as well."
"You dissin' my man?" Ema asked threateningly with an equally threatening smile, her cheeks sparking with electricity.
"You want me to burn you to a crisp again?" Tepper asked threateningly, matching his girlfriend's threatening smile while clenching his fists as smoke began coming out of . Things seemed tense between everyone as Flara and I looked on at the possible fight. I soon sighed loudly.
"Everyone please. This is a waste of time." I stated, getting in between the two groups and turning to address Team Cutesy. "Kayla, your team is out of line. It's okay to want to be popular but being disrespectful to people isn't going to help you. Plus, you all are late to the meeting with Mr. Emboar so I suggest you all get in there."
Kayla looked insulted that I spoke to her that way, soon rolling her eyes at me in disinterest.
"And I thought you were cool, turns out you're just a hater as well. I can't wait to be more popular than you and whatever second rate team you're on." Kayla stated insultingly, getting a glare out of me.
"Kayla!" Lucy exclaimed at her comment.
"H-hey, that's uncalled-" Flara began, sounding offended. I simply raised a hand to stop her from continuing and starting up another argument. She didn't respond further as Kayla walked past me with her nose in the air.
"Let's go Cutesy, we have more important places to be than being here with these haters." Kayla stated while waving everyone off. Her team followed after her, both Batty and Elizabeth having their noses in the air as an act of superiority. Lucy, however, walked past our group with her head down looking embarrassed. It was hard not to feel bad for her. Batty made it to Mr. Emboar's door first, gladly opening it for Elizabeth and Kayla who, right before entering the office, looked back at us and pointed two fingers at her eyes and then back at our group. She then entered, Batty entering as well and not bothering to hold the door for Lucy. Before it could close, a psychic aura appeared around the doorknob, and Lucy looked back towards us with her eyes glowing pink, signaling that she was using her psychic powers. She then mouthed "Sorry" to us, which we all waved it off with a smile. She smiled back and entered the office, closing the door behind her.
"The nerve of those guys. So glad I'm not one of their fans." Dew stated, annoyed with his arms crossed.
"I'll be surprised if they even have fans." Snive stated.
"That was really uncalled for. It sucks that Lucy has to go through with that." Flara stated before turning to all of us. "There's gotta be something we can do about them? Maybe talking to dad will help, I know he wouldn't want teams like that representing him, and maybe it'll help Lucy out."
"It's a good idea. We'll let him know when we can if he doesn't know already." I stated, placing a hand on her shoulder to focus my attention on her. She smiled at the action and I did as well. "In due time though, for now, we all still have something to take care of."
"Oh right, the mission. Pass the bounty paper for a sec Spark." Dew said. Spark handed him the paper as he walked a few steps away from everyone.
"And you two…" I started, bringing my attention to Team EF. "…have classes to get to."
They both groaned at the mention of this.
"Mon, did you really have to remind us?" Ema stated tiredly.
"Let's get through this Ema. It won't be too bad." Flara stated before turning to me. "You all make sure you come back safely, we'll be wait for ya."
"We'll be alright, this ain't gonna be our first rodeo." Tepper stated confidently.
"I know you'll definitely crush 'em. Get a few hits in for me." Ema stated, walking up to Tepper before hopping up to hold onto his neck as he held her in his arms. They shared a tendered, quick kiss that Spark cooed at while Snive jokingly gagged at. They soon broke apart and Ema was placed back on the ground. "See ya Temper~."
"I'll be sure to text ya to update you if anything happens. I have a feeling you'd want to know what goes on." I told Flara.
"I would like that if it's not too much of a bother. It'll help me for when we go on our first mission." Flara stated happily. "I'll keep you updated on things going on here too."
"I appreciate it." I stated before she smiled again and turned around to walk down the hall with Ema in tow. She turned around and waved goodbye as she continued walking away. I responded with a wave of my own as I stared at her retreating figure.
"What? Not gonna share your own goodbye kiss with her like Ema and Tepper did." Snive joked, getting a laugh out of Spark and an embarrassed groan from me as I remembered the kiss she gave me back after her test. I felt my face heat up.
"Now now, my dear Snive. There is no time for romance at a time like this. Not when there's a ne'er-do-well afoot." Dew spoke up, getting everyone's attention as we all stared at him facing away from us.
"Uh Dew? What's with the accent?" I questioned, confused.
"Oh no…" Snive groaned with a facepalm.
"That thief won't be out there for long though. Not when…" He paused for a second, turning around to show that in addition to having the bounty note, he also had a type of tweed detective's hat in his other hand. He placed the hat on his head before pulling out a corncob pipe from seemingly nowhere.
"Detective Dew is on the case!" Dew exclaimed proudly with a bright smile before blowing into his pipe, causing harmless bubbles to float out of it and pop after a few seconds.
"W-wow, you guys were serious about this." I stated to Tepper and Spark.
"Mhmm." Both stated simply with a nod.
"Arceus, he even kept the hat…" Snive groaned out loud to herself, still holding her face in her hand.
"We'll solve this case in no time flat." Detective Dew' stated confidently before walking up to Snive, placing a finger under her chin to lift her head up. The act surprised her as she seemed to visibly stiffen a bit as she looked up at him. His face bore half-lidded eyes and a confident smirk. Tepper, Spark, and I all raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Especially with your help my dear."
"Is this normal?" I questioned the other guys again.
"Mhmm." They both stated simply again with a nod.
"It's been a while though, been hoping to see this side of him again." Spark stated. "And with our line of work, I feel like we're gonna see it more often."
"You guys just keep getting more and more interesting." I said to myself with a small smile.
"S-so what do you have in mind, detective?" Snive stated after Dew had let go, her response surprising me as I went wide eyed. She looked at the ground away from him embarrassed with a blush on her face.
Oh she's definitely getting teased for this. I thought with a smirk.
"First! We look over the evidence we currently have." Dew stated energetically. He looked back at the bounty note in his hand, deciding to blow a few more bubbles out of his pipe. After a few seconds of pondering, he turned back to us. "We don't have a lot of evidence."
"Great work detective." Tepper snidely remarked with a smirk.
"Is there anything else you can remember Spark?" Dew asked his leader, who responded with a shrug.
"Everything I told y'all and everything on the paper is all we got. Sorry Dew." Spark stated.
"We just have to work with what we got then." Dew stated before pacing back and forth, blowing bubbles occasionally. "Snive my dear, recap what we have."
"Oh uh sure." Snive quickly obeyed, using one of her shoulder vines to grab onto the bounty note, taking it from Dew before reading it allowed. "Possible ice type female with white claws. No one I know rings any bells."
"Which is where we turn to our resident Pikachu who knows everybody." Dew stated before motioning to Spark again. "Anyone like that ring any bells to you?"
Spark pondered for a second before speaking up again.
"Actually…yeah it does." Spark started, everyone listening in attentively. "There's a Sneasel I met a while ago that just so happens to live in the Tech Area."
"Female?" I asked.
"If I remember correctly, yes." Spark stated, Dew slapped a fist into an open palm.
"We got a lead!" Dew said excitedly before running down the hall. "We can't let this lead go to waste! Let's get after it."
"I thought you were the leader?" I questioned Spark as we all watched Dew run off. Spark gave a shrug.
"Eh, this is his territory, better to let him take point on this one for now. He seems to be onto something." Spark stated, getting me to smile proudly at him.
"Good answer leader, we can't always be the leading force in everything. Best to play to our teammates strengths." I stated before taking a few steps forward after Dew. "Now come on guys, I have a feeling that he'll solve the whole case himself if we let him."
"And let him steal the glory of Team PokéPark Defenders' first mission? Hell no!" Tepper yelled excitedly as charged past me and after Dew.
"You're right, gonna need some payback and to get Spoink's pearl back." Spark stated before racing after the other two.
"As for you…" I started, Snive getting ready to run too before I stopped her.
"What?" She questioned before seeing my sly smirk. "Don't you dare…"
"So you are into the detective." I jokingly commented. This earned me a massive blush from her and a Vine Whip to my arm which caused me to wince but I still laughed all the same as we both ran after the rest of the boys.
(Tech Area: Warehouse District. Couple hours later)(No one's POV)
Despite PokéPark being a peaceful and welcoming place to locals and newcomers alike, like many places in the world, it has its fair share of lowlifes looking to exploit unsuspecting Pokémon. One such lowlife was a young, female Sneasel, currently leaning against the wall of a building, seemingly relaxing. In actuality, she was currently side-eyeing an Illumise and Volbeat couple currently walking towards her, too caught up in each other's conversation and presence to notice the Sneasel. The Sneasel grinned slightly upon seeing the Gold Loopet on the Illumise left arm, looking a bit loose on it. As the couple walked past her, the Sneasel looked down and closed her eyes, trying to blend in to the surroundings of the couple. With great skill, or perhaps luck, the Sneasel managed to quickly reach out to the Gold Loopet, unclip it from the Illumise's arm, grab it before it could fall to the ground, and hide it from view in her hand. The couple was none the wiser as they continued to walk by, laughing together at their conversation. With a smirk, the Sneasel leaned off the wall and quickly walked in an opposite direction, also unaware that a certain Water-type detective and his crew had watched the whole thing take place and began to tail her. The Sneasel turned down a random alleyway, walking for a few more minutes before running into her accomplice and mentor leaning against a wall with his arms crossed.
"Razzi, how'd we do?" The Krokorok questioned, opening an eye to give her attention. Razzi, the Sneasel, smirked confidently with her eyes closed, pulling out her ill-gotten Loopet and twirled it around her claw.
"That mark was too easy Bandit. You gotta give something challenging." Razzi boasted, tossing the Loopet to Bandit who effortlessly caught it.
"Slow down kid, you gotta start off small when doing shit like this." Bandit stated before looking over the Gold Loopet. "Nice grab though, this'll catch a good price. Now let's get out of here, spent too much time here."
"I'm not a kid, I'm only two years younger than you. Plus, I could totally do a couple more grabs but…I'm getting hungry." Razzi stated, closing her eyes and turning around. "I want seafood."
"A little demanding, aren't we?" Bandit stated, still looking over the Loopet.
"Only because I know you'll get it for me." Razzi stated slyly, taking a step forward but abruptly stopped upon feeling something wet make contact with her face. "Ah, what the hell?"
"What's wron-?"Bandit started before noticing bubbles begin to harmlessly float past him. "What the…"
"Bandit! It's been quite awhile." A voice coolly rang out, bringing both thieves' attention to the source. Further down the alley, Dew leaned back against a wall with his leg propped up on the wall, looking down whilst blowing more bubbles out of his pipe. He then looked up at the pair with a smirk. "Just couldn't keep out of trouble huh?"
"Pfft, who's this dweeb?" Razzi snickered, looking Dew up and down with a judging smirk. Bandit, however, had a different expression on his face.
"Oh shit…" He said lowly and nervously, taking a step back before looking down to Razzi. "We gotta scram."
"Scram? For what?" Razzi while looking up at him. Seeing Bandit's expression, Razzi began to grow nervous as well. "W-who is this guy?"
"Just an old acquaintance of his." Dew responded, pushing off the wall and facing the two.
"What do you want?" Bandit questioned.
"Me and my compatriots would like to have a word with you." Dew stated, confusing Razzi.
"Compatriots?" Razzi questioned. After saying this, Snive slowly walked out of the shadows, walking up next to Dew and flashing her explorer badge in her hand. The sight of the badge made Razzi's heart drop. "Oh shit."
"We're explorer team PPD and we'd like to ask you both some questions." Snive stated seriously.
"Shit, you guys really did become explorers. Why am I not surprised?" Bandit stated with a small laugh. "Razzi, we split up and meet back at the hideout on the count of three."
"I gotchu." Razzi stated nervously, taking a slight step back.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you." Snive said with a glare upon seeing their movement.
"Ready?" Bandit asked, also taking a step back.
"Yeah." Razzi responded.
"Guys…" Dew said in a warning tone.
"3!" With Bandit's yell, the two took off down different alleys in opposite directions. Dew sighed.
"My dear." Detective Dew said, motioning a hand forward.
"On it." Snive responded, quickly sprinting down the alley that Bandit went down. In this time, Dew had pulled out his badge and began messaging the rest of the team.
As Bandit ran, he looked behind him and saw that Snive was quickly gaining onto him. He cursed under his breath, knowing full well that she'd catch him soon. He didn't have to worry about her catching though as suddenly he was tackled in his side, a slight burning sensation being present as well. He was launched right in a wall and roughly fell onto the floor. As he pushed himself up on his arms, he looked up to see Tepper recovering from his move, the fire on his body just now disappearing as a purple aura covered his body and shined a little before disappearing. Right before he could fully get up to defend himself, Bandit was suddenly wrapped up in a vine, courtesy of Snive. She wrapped it around his legs and arms, causing him to fall back onto the ground. Upon seeing that he was caught, he groaned and growled at his captors, Tepper smiling triumphantly while Snive looked down at him with a serious expression.
Meanwhile, Razzi continued to race through the alley, using ice on her feet to quickly make her escape. She looked behind her and smirked, seeing that no one was chasing her.
"Pfft, what losers, and Bandit was worried." Razzi gloated, still looking behind her and failing to notice a Monferno leap of a building and skillfully landed in her path. She soon crashed into him, being pushed back and falling onto the ground. Wincing a little, she pushed herself into a sitting position, now looking up to see Tony standing in front of her with one hand on his hip, unfazed by Razzi running into him. With a growl, Razzi quickly got up, getting into a fighting stance. "What? You with that Dewott and Servine!? I've fought bigger and meaner Pokémon than you!"
"Woah woah. I'm not here to fight, we just want to talk." Tony said, raising his hands in peace and taking a step forward. This caused Razzi to take a step back, her claws beginning to shine like steel.
"Well that's too bad. Bandit told me never to give in!" Razzi yelled, causing Tony to sigh.
"Yeah, admirable. It's a good thing I was distracting you then." Tony stated nonchalantly, confusing Razzi.
"Distractin-?" Was all Razzi got out before she suddenly seized up. In the time of Razzi and Tony talking to each other, Spark had sneakily dropped down from the same building as Tony did. He had charged up a Thunder Wave in his palm before pressing it to Razzi's back, paralyzing her instantly.
(Several minutes later)
"…You'll Never Take Me!" Yelled a now un-paralyzed Razzi, looking around in panic as she searched for another escape. She then noticed that she was already surrounded by Team PPD and that she and Bandit were bound up in a sitting position next to each other in Snive's vine. "Arceus damnit…"
"Bout time you woke up. You okay?" Bandit asked.
"No, of course not. You weren't the one who got paralyzed." Razzi pouted, annoyed. "Alright, the hell y'all want with u-"
She cut herself off in surprise upon seeing Spark, who sheepishly waved at her once he got her attention.
"Spark!? What the fuck!? I thought we were cool. I thought that 'good guy' shtick was just an act?" Razzi whined.
"Yeah, no. That's just me." Spark smiled. "And we kinda had to, since you did steal today."
"Steal? Says who?" Bandit snapped defensively. "What proof?"
"Yeah, we ain't do shit." Razzi cursed.
"Uh huh, Miss?" Dew said, getting the thieves attention as they were shocked to find the same Illumise and Volbeat couple from before, both angrily glaring at them. Razzi and Bandit were further shocked when Dew took out the same Gold Loopet that they had just stolen. "Would this happen to be yours?"
"Yes, and I remember passing by this very Sneasel around the time it disappeared." She stated, Dew giving her the Loopet back causing her to smile. "Thank you so much, it's my fiancé's engagement gift and I would've went crazy if I lost it."
"You and me both, that thing was expensive…" The Volbeat stated, saying the last part quietly. "Thank you all again."
"It was no problem. We'll take care of these ne'er do wells so both can have a pleasant day." Dew stated while taking off his hat, placing it on his chest and taking a slight bow, much to the Illumise's delight and Volbeat's confusion.
"Pfft, is this guy for real?" Razzi mocked to Bandit as the Bug type couple flew away from the group.
"Now!" Dew suddenly said, making Razzi jump as Dew straightened himself, turned to the tied up thieves and pointed his hat to them. "Onto you two thieves, you have some information we need."
"And why would we tell you?" Bandit asked bluntly.
"You don't have to tell us actually." Dew stated before turning to Spark. "Spark my friend, does Razzi's voice match the one you faced in your chase the other day."
"What are you on about? You trying to frame me for something I didn't do? That's fucked up." Razzi said defensively.
"She doesn't actually." Spark stated, pondering a little as he placed a finger on his chin. "Razzi's voice sounds too young and loud to be that thief."
"Hey!" Razzi yelled, only proving Spark's point.
"Plus…the thief had three claws while Razzi only has two." Spark stated.
"Maybe we're dealing with a Weavile then." Snive stated.
Maybe my hunch is right. But what would they be doing out here? They don't operate this far from Treasure Town. Tony thought to himself.
At the mention of Weavile, Bandit's eyes widened for a second but quickly composed himself to avoid suspicion. Dew, however, caught sight of this action and smirked.
"Hmm, looks like we will be asking you some questions." Dew said, mainly to Bandit. "You seem to know something."
"And what makes you say that?" Bandit asked dryly.
"Don't think we didn't catch that little look you had at the mention of Weavile." Dew stated.
"Uh, I didn't catch anything." Tepper stated honestly with a shoulder shrug and confused expression on his face.
"Okay, well I saw it at least." Dew stated. "So, whatcha know?"
"Even if I did know something, why on earth would I tell you lot?" Bandit asked.
"Well we did just catch you for theft and could just turn you guys in." Tony stated.
"Ha! No you can't! You just let that couple leave with the loot." Razzi laughed.
"Not very smart of y'all." Bandit stated. Dew smirked.
"Oh really?" Dew said before looking towards Snive. "If you would, my dear."
"Gladly." Snive said simply before using her vine to hoist the thieves up, using a protrusion on the wall to help her. Soon, the two were hanging upside down and several stolen treasures and cash began falling off of them. Spark stepped up to the pile of treasures, picking up a bracelet and holding it up.
"Care to explain all this?" Spark asked, waving the bracelet in his hand.
"Uh, bought it?" Razzi stated, smiling innocently. Bandit only groaned at this.
"You might as well just turn us in. We'll just return the shit and serve a little time. It's nothing." Bandit stated nonchalantly, turning away from the group.
"You gotta be fucking kidding me." Snive said, frustrated. Dew grew a scowl on his face.
"Yep, too bad explorers. A little time ain't nothing for us, we'll just get smarter." Razzi gloated.
"Why are you protecting them? They must've paid you a lot to keep quiet." Dew stated. Bandit was still looking away from them but a deep frown grew on his face, something that Dew easily noticed. "If they compensated at all…"
"I don't snitch, just take us in." Bandit stated.
"Crud, now what…" Tony stated to himself. After saying this, a dark blue feather floated down in front of him. Slightly confused, he soon saw a few more feathers floating down in front of him. Looking around, he saw that the feathers were falling throughout the whole alley, everyone quickly noticing and looking around. Tony looked up and saw a big flock of Murkrow flying in a circle above them. "What the…"
"Of all the times…" Tony heard Spark whisper. Taking a glance at him, Tony saw Spark looking worriedly at the sky.
"Spark, what's going on?" Tony questioned. Before he could get an answer, a loud "Caw" sounded from the sky. Looking back up, Tony saw a much bigger bird flew down through the center of the circle and rapidly flew straight down towards the group in the alley. Right before hitting the ground, the unknown Pokemon spread their wings and quickly halted her fall, a gust of wind blowing out and hitting the group. The Pokemon, now seen to be a Honchkrow, landed gracefully and looked down authoritatively at the group, paying particular attention to the two hanging thieves who immediately knew who this was. The flock of Murkrow also flew down and began perching themselves on the rooftops above the group, effectively surrounding everyone and looking down at them with smirks and smiles on their faces. Everyone glanced around them, mentally preparing themselves for a fight. After a few tense seconds, Spark spoke up.
"Uh, hey Mistress Annabelle." Spark greeted, smiling nervously and surprising Tony. Upon hearing her name and title, the Honchkrow looked towards Spark and a warm smile appeared on her face.
"Huh? Is that Spark? Oh my it's been so long." Mistress Annabelle said happily in an aged and dignified tone, walking up to Spark as he met her halfway. "I've missed having you around, so bright and joyful. How have you been, little one?"
"I've been well mistress. I've been meaning to visit but I've recently got really busy given my new line of work." Spark stated. Annabelle offered a wing to him and he gently took it, bent down and gave a respectful kiss to the top of it, further surprising Tony and even the rest of PPD this time. Spark then looked back up at her before speaking again. "You're looking as lovely as ever."
"Ah *giggle* always such a charmer." She stated in a flattered tone.
"So, can someone explain who that is?" Tony whispered to everyone else.
"What!? You been living under a rock!? That's the boss of bosses around these parts." Razzi whispered in a shocked tone.
"Shit, and this is why I didn't want to operate here." Bandit stated.
"Mistress Annabelle runs most of the organized crime in the Tech Area. Whatever happens in the Tech Area's underworld goes through her." Snive whispered to Tony.
"I'm questioning how Spark knows her. I know he's our resident social-Butterfree but this is ridiculous." Tepper stated, still a little shocked.
"But we may have just just found a new source of information in our case." Dew stated excitedly.
"W-wait, I don't think it's a good tim-and he's already walking up to them." Snive said as Dew immediately began walking to Annabelle and Spark, the two having continued their conversation the whole time.
"Oh, you managed to create that exploration team that you wanted? I'm so proud of you, congrats." Mistress Annabelle stated happily.
"Yeah, you're okay with me being a part of an exploration team? Thought you'd be upset considering…" Spark started, looking away slightly and scratching the back on his head. Annabelle responded with a dismissive wave.
"Oh trust me, I don't mind. Whilst my line of work may put me at odds with a lot of exploration teams and law enforcement, and there are some in your line of work that truly irritate me, they're a necessary part of life." Annabelle stated. She then smirked darkly. "They deal with all the loud amateurs, leaving me to quietly prosper with my boys."
"Heh heh, I guess you make a good point there." Spark stated with a nervous laugh.
"Mistress Annabelle I presume." Dew greeted, surprising both Annabelle and Spark. "Always great to know that Spark knows the most important Pokemon in PokéPark. *offers handshake* Detective Dew, at your service Mistress."
"Oh, a pleasure…" Annabelle said a bit awkwardly with a judging look towards Dew. Reluctantly accepting the handshake, she turns back to Spark. "Is he with you?"
"Yeah, we're all here to help though." Spark stated.
"Yes we are but first, mind telling us why you're here with such a show of force." Dew asked.
"If that's okay with you." Spark stated quickly. "I know how you feel about asking questions."
After saying this, the rest of the group stiffened, tension returning to them.
"Damn it Dew." Tepper whispered.
"Oh I could never do anything to you Spark, no need to worry. You'd have to do something extremely stupid to get on my bad side." Annabelle stated, getting a laugh out of her goons, not helping in decreasing the tension. "Well, the reason for the show is because I didn't know you all were here. Considering that you are here, I'm gonna assume that you're here for the same information as well."
Annabelle then turned her attention to the tied up thieves, smirking darkly at them and causing them to shudder and look on her fearfully.
"My sources tell me that the thief who made trouble in my territory the other day was possibly a Sneasel and there just so happens to be one making unwanted noise around here." Annabelle stated, focusing her attention on Razzi. "Looks like my sources were correct."
"W-wait, you got the wrong gal. I'm being framed here!" Razzi panicked. Bandit glared at Annabelle, brought on by the threatening tone she was giving to his partner. The glare was ignored though.
"She's right." Spark spoke up, stepping in front of Annabelle and getting her attention. "I saw first hand who the thief was. I was the one who chased her. Not only was her voice different but she had three white claws, not two like Razzi's."
"This evidence points to the culprit being a Weavile." Dew stated.
"A Weavile huh? Can't say I've seen a Pokemon like that living around here…" Annabelle stated before grinning darkly at Bandit, getting another shudder from him. "But I have a feeling you know where we can find them."
"A-and why would you think that? I don't have anything to say." Bandit stated, trying to keep his cool.
"On the contrary Bandit, I know you're a bit of an information broker in PokéPark. I'm sure you must have heard about this recent event since it's quite rare." Annabelle stated.
"Information broker?" Tony questioned.
"Yep, he's been the go to for a lot of criminals since the Wish Park crisis." Snive explained, getting both Tony and Tepper's attention. "If he didn't have a hand in the theft then he at least knows who did it."
"I see…" Tony said.
"So Bandit…" Annabelle said, gaining the three's attention and causing them to slightly panic as she had walked up to Bandit and Razzi during their short conversation. She proceeded to grab Razzi's face with a wing, roughly pulling her close so they were now face to face. Razzi, understandably terrified, struggled against her grip but found Annabelle to be too strong for her to move, barely getting her to move her wing. Bandit growled in response. "Either you give me some useful information or this one will give me the information. One way or another."
Tony took a step to her, ready to jump in to stop Annabelle from hurting Razzi. Tepper balled his fists and he and Snive were about to step forward as well to back up Tony.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you." Annabelle threatened, not even bothering to look back at Tony. "I know you're new around here, and I know you're the leader of that famous exploration team but I couldn't give two shits. Cross me or get in my way and… *turns her head to give Tony, Tepper, and Snive a side eye glare*…you'll regret it."
Annabelle's eye glowed red for a second, causing a purple aura to appear and shatter on the three's bodies, making them feel sluggish from the speed drop.
"Also, these boys here aren't the only backup I brought, you're more surrounded than you think." Annabelle warned.
"You gotta be bluffing." Tepper stated, trying to keep his cool.
"Do you really wanna take that risk? I haven't had a good beatdown in a while." Annabelle threatened darkly, fully turning her head to face the three. Her eyes glowed red a second time, causing another drop in speed, and everyone looked up to see the Murkrow charging up various flying type moves, getting everyone more on edge.
"H-hold on there Mistress Annabelle. Maybe there's another way we could get the info." Spark stated, stepping up in front of her to get her attention.
"And pray tell Spark." Annabelle beckoned, her patience wearing thin.
"Well I'm sure our compatriot Bandit here would rather give information to us explorers." Dew stated.
"And why would I do that?" Bandit questioned stubbornly.
"Would you rather the alternative?" Snive asked, walking up to him.
"With a hurt Razzi?" Tony finished, walking up to him as well and motioning towards Razzi, her head still being held in Annabelle's wing. Razzi and Bandit locked eyes for a second and seeing the terrified look on her face, Bandit sighed in defeat.
"I'll talk to the explorers…" Bandit said begrudgingly.
"Would that work for you, Mistress?" Spark asked respectfully and hesitantly. After a tense few seconds of quiet pondering, Annabelle released her grip on Razzi, much to everyone's relief.
"You're lucky I trust you Spark, cause you all were quite close to becoming memories. If there's anyone who'll capture the real thieves, I know it'll be you." Annabelle stated before focusing her attention on Bandit. "Make sure to tell them everything honey, I really don't want to have another meeting with you two."
She then walked a bit away from everyone before outstretching her wings.
"It was a pleasure seeing you again, Spark. You definitely should come around for a visit." Annabelle stated warmly, everyone a bit thrown off by her sudden tone change.
"I'll be sure to Mistress Annabelle, I promise." Spark stated with a respectful bow.
"I look forward to it." Annabelle warmly smiled at him. She then turned her attention to the tied up thieves. "And for you two…"
Her expression turned threatening again, glaring down at the two with a menacing aura.
"Stay the fuck out of my territory." She threatened darkly, flapping downward and launching herself into the air. She made a big gust of wind as a result, blowing into everyone as they shielded their eyes and braced themselves to protect themselves and avoid being blown back by it. Her Murkrow goons followed after her, flying into the sky and soon disappearing from sight along with her. Once they knew she was gone, they all sighed in relief.
"Arceus." Spark exhaled out, now realizing that he was holding his breath most of the time. He then fell onto his butt and panted slightly. "That was exhausting."
"You really saved our asses there, Mr. Popular." Tepper stated happily, walking up to him and giving him a slap on the back, letting out the rest of the air Spark had left.
"Is this kind of thing normal in explorer work?" Snive questioned to Tony.
"Pretty much yeah, especially when it comes to bounty hunting missions." Tony stated. "I've dealt with a few veteran criminals before but no one as entrenched or connected as her. She's got a dangerous air about her."
"Listen…" Bandit spoke out, getting everyone's attention. "Thanks…"
"I totally could've taken them on." Razzi stated, earning annoyed, questioning looks from everyone. Seeing the looks she was given, she looked away modestly with a blush on her face. "But thanks for the save."
"We're explorers, we couldn't just let you both get hurt like that." Dew stated in his normal tone of voice with a smile.
"You made a smart decision there, Bandit." Tony stated.
"Didn't have any other choice." Bandit stated simply.
"So does this mean you can untie us now?" Razzi stated with a sheepish smile. This earned her a short laugh from Snive.
"Ha, hell no, we still gotta take you guys in for the thefts." Snive stated, earning a groan from the two.
"Eh, it was worth a shot." Razzi stated, getting a grunt of agreement from Bandit.
"Now…" Dew started, getting Bandit's attention and pulling out his explorer badge to take notes on. "Tell us what you know."
[Hey all, hoped ya missed me and hoped you enjoyed. The Special Episodes story should be out soon and if you want to read more of my content and are a fan of Splatoon, I actually wrote a one-shot on the Side Order DLC that you should check out. Anyway, onto the outro
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