~x1x~
PoV: Topaz Heart
Location: Sandgem Pokemon Lab
Time: Noon
After a painfully quiet walk back to the lab, the Professor led us to a conference room with a huge table large enough for all of us to fit in nicely. His security pokemon were dismissed sans Weavile to tend to other affairs. I assumed at least one of them had to stay with the Professor due to protocol, even if it was a false alarm.
"The League tends to not take cyber attacks lightly, as it causes confusion and delay," The Professor warned Violet standing on the opposing end from where she sat. "Was this truly merely a test? I would remind you whatever lies that you consider concocting will be deciphered immediately."
Weavile snickered at the last bit. Donut's tail shivered at his voice; he was clearly not a fan.
Violet nodded, not flinching in the slightest even under Rowan's gaze. "Had it not been, there would be no need for the timer, the minimal veil or the documentation I kept of the attempt."
They two shared a long stare before the Professor leaned back. "Beyond testing our reaction time, why did you feel the need to do this?"
"I consider the safety and wellbeing of Pokemon to be paramount. A system which oversees those aspects of those who live among humans, even more vital to be as secure and comprehensive as possible. I do not claim to be even halfway done learning about cyber security, but I am well versed enough to provide a distinct challenge to most systems," Violet elaborated before looking at Weavile. "I am sorry to have taken your time for a false threat, but had I informed anyone prior there was no guarantee that a response to said threat would be genuine."
Weavile tilted his head before chuckling and waving her aside as if telling her to relax, it was alright. Professor Rowan seemed to take his laissez faire attitude into account.
"I suppose the most genuine drill is the one you least expect," I muttered thoughtfully. "My grandparents trained my uncle and I similarly so we could better grasp security systems."
"The only group brazen enough to test our systems even marginally is Team Galactic," The Professor stated. "And few other enemies of our great region. Myself and the League have invested a great deal into the security of the lab. It is state of the art, not even Cyrus Akagi could get through, but to even attempt… fascinating."
Jade crossed his arms. "What, are you about to give her a job? Volkner already did that, she works at the Sunyshore Gym."
"I actually intend to give you all a purpose," The Professor corrected him. "It seems I was remiss in letting you all wander around aimlessly. You have skills that should be tested and honed. For example, Jade, I was informed by Summer and Sakura that you and your partner Flax are brazen children, all too eager to involve themselves in business they aren't prepared for. I'm inclined to believe their opinions, lest you can prove otherwise."
Now Jade and the Professor were glaring at each other. "Are you trying to goad me, Professor? Hmmm… well I do feel like I've been underestimated enough, so this bait is enticing."
"Think what you like, Jade," the Professor replied.
"I just want to ask for her sake, is Violet in trouble?" I asked.
The Professor shook his head. "She will suffer no consequences for this. Now I ask if she'd like to contribute even more to Sinnoh's wellbeing. I assume she'll find it easier to make a difference from within the building than outside of it. Yes, Violet?"
She nodded without hesitation. "I have no objections."
"And before you wander off and discover another legendary or crime syndicate, I'd ask you as well for aid, Topaz," He addressed me.
"What do you need us to do?" I questioned.
"Come," He beckoned, leading us out of the conference room and into the main laboratory area. There were several aides with their pokemon performing a myriad of their own tasks. Sitting on a miniature table set we found Rogelio and Cenza playing patty cake blissfully. Even Roland was here, meditating in the corner while several dumbbells floated around him.
{You've really caught on, Rogelio!} Cenza cheered him on.
"Soon I can be declared the patty cake king!" He declared enthusiastically.
Professor Rowan's eyes softened at the sight as he turned to Weavile silently dismissing him from service. He chuckled as he dashed through our group as a black blur. Donut gave him a shady side-eye, but I patted his head to ease his nerves.
Never been so close to a Weavile before. I don't blame Donut, they radiate danger. Wouldn't want one chasing me down.
First Rowan turned to Violet. "I'd like you to work with our security team for a spell. We cannot divulge all of our secrets, but we can perhaps give you a better understanding of our process and learn from your own. On the side we'd like some more of your input relating to legendaries and to advise us in that regard."
She nodded. "I in turn cannot divulge everything I know, but I will assist to the best of my ability."
He turned to Jade. "I've been told you are skilled at botany and from what I've seen you are a knowledgeable pokemon trainer. I would like you to look through Rhea Groves' old notes to learn if anything from them could relate to Rogelio's development. You can also help direct Rogelio through some simple training to test his abilities."
"Rhea Groves as in the famous botanist? That does sound enticing, but…" He replied carefully. "We'll all be paid for our services, yes?"
"Of course, I believe free labor is an abuse of power and a lack of respect for people's time and effort," The Professor answered concisely.
"I couldn't agree more, count me in then," He answered.
Finally he turned to me. "As for you, I'd like to test your skills in all facets, so you'll be working with both Violet and Jade. Your analytical and collaborative skills would be a great boon."
I considered what he meant by the last part, but thinking about it I had no quarrel with anyone here. Even Jade's team, like sure we weren't besties, but I've never given them a reason to disdain me. That aside, the notion of aiding a world renowned scientist excited me and the fact that I had my own niche made me feel even better. "It would be my honor, Professor!"
Holyn tilted his head. {Can any of us help?}
Our pokemon pals waited patiently by our sides for their own roles.
"Mmm, maybe, but it'd prolly be more fun if you all did your own thing. We've got this," I promised him.
{Alright!} Holyn exclaimed before pondering. {Hmmm, what to do then?}
Lou knew what he wanted to do immediately. {In this case, Amethyst. We may begin training immediately.}
She laughed immediately. {That's the first thing you ask as soon as it's made clear we're all good, and I wouldn't have it any other way.} She looked over to Rowan. {We're good, yeah? Just checking?}
He waved a hand aside indicating there was no bad blood between any of them. The Professor always struck me as a man not easily perturbed, so once he knew there was no legitimate threat he was back to cordial business.
Zenara walked over to Gautier, giving him a gentle hello headbutt. {You wanna play? I can show you how to be a cool person!}
He seemed surprised and unsure of the sudden invitation. Jade scrunched his face at the sight. "We can hone your radar skills later."
It seemed those words were enough to relax and accept Zenara's invitation. I wasn't sure how old Gautier was, but Zenara was fun at any age so hopefully he enjoyed their time together.
{Could I come too?} Holyn asked.
Zenara's face lit up. {Sure! We can do loads of stuff together!}
Holyn's tail wagged at the thought as he followed Zenara and Gautier outdoors. Flax immediately trailed right after Gautier, although he wasn't invited Zenara wasn't one to refuse a potential new friend. Even if she wasn't his biggest fan.
Lou and Amethyst ended up leaving together along with Donut who was bored and figured he'd watch and micromanage, according to him. How'd he know better than two fliers, I dunno, but he was gonna try.
Finally, Shizu sauntered off somewhere alone. I could only hope she didn't cause any drama unattended.
"Rogelio," Professor Rowan called. Alerted, Rogelio ceased his game of patty cake to float over to him. "Violet, Jade and Topaz will now begin aiding us in researching Calyrex from now on."
"Oho? That's wonderful news, Professor!" Rogelio cheered. "I am in your care everyone!"
I took stock of all the various machines, aides and charts surrounding us. I wasn't necessarily ignorant of this environment, but I only hoped everything I had learned was enough to not make me look a fool.
~x2x~
PoV: Topaz Heart
Location: Sandgem Pokemon Lab
Time: Afternoon
From then on we began working with Professor Rowan and his aides with our own individual tasks. Naturally, since none of us knew the exact process of how to go about working with the professor, his aides worked alongside us to guide each of us through the motions. Lucas and Turtwig stopped by as well to give us some pointers from a point of view more relatable as they were close in age.
I've been working with advanced technology since I was a little boy, that's what it meant to be a Beacon. We were to familiarize ourselves with what we could, then utilize it for managing the solar panel power structure of Sunyshore City and other general engineering tasks.
While I've spent my entire life playing at the gym, most of the gym trainers are skilled engineers who helped me grasp technology relating to pokemon. So when I began working with the Professor's devices, I found them not too unfamiliar with what I was used to dealing with.
But for now I sat at a large table with Jade and Violet, reviewing categories we should be investigating related to Calyrex on my laptop, as well as noting points of interest in the research. Jade was reading Rhea's Galar notes next to me as he took his own notes, while Violet was familiarizing herself with security protocols on the other end of the table on her own laptop.
Noting the physical distance between us and Violet, I decided to be a bit more proactive in curbing their feud. Albeit mostly one sided.
After some time of us all sitting in silence I leaned in towards Jade. "So you're gonna give everyone their shit back, right?" I whispered.
He groaned. "Are we doing this right now? I'll just drop everything off in everyone's rooms later."
I rolled my eyes. "As long as it gets back to everyone by the end of the day, sure fine whatever, but I think you should personally give whatever you stole from Violet back whilst apologizing."
He squinted at me. "...why? She'll be satisfied as long as she gets it back. She doesn't care about my human apologies."
I leaned in even closer. "Because this petty feud has been going on for months and it's splintering our friend group," I hissed.
He returned my vehemence with confusion. "Everything was dandy before she swung in."
"It actually wasn't because as far as I can tell, we hang out constantly, often with all our pokemon and yet neither Lou or Donut have ever been keen on spending any time with Flax or Shizu by choice. That goes both ways, by the way," I added. "And now we learn I can't understand your team, you can't understand mine and it shouldn't be like that. We all should be closer than this."
"How is apologizing to Violet going to fix any of that, since while I blame her for most things, this isn't specifically… her… fault," he admitted, albeit gagging slightly.
Dramatic much?
"As a pokemon trainer, you're the leader of your team. You set an example that your pokemon are inclined to follow, we all know this," I recited to him. It was basic school knowledge and Volkner affirmed it countless times.
"Even though you met Gautier only recently he defers to your opinions immediately. If he and your team see you making an effort to get along with Violet and Amethyst, maybe… just maybe, everyone will be a little less miserable."
Now he couldn't refute that fact, although I knew he was going to try. "I'm just really not a fan of that girl."
"Honestly? Neither was I when we first met," I admitted. "For a number of reasons, but because I could put those feelings aside and work with her cordially, I became able to see her good side and now…" I looked over to her before leaning inward to Jade, whispering even softer. "She feels like family, in a way."
Those words hit Jade the hardest, like his expression finally softened and his guard loosened. He considered my words for sometime as he began to get up.
"You're gonna do it?" I asked hopefully.
"Not because you wanted me to," He scoffed, picking up his bag. "It's because… it's because Garland sorta said something similar the other day. And he's smarter than you, just so ya know, mate. But if she claws my eyes out I'm blaming you not him, aight?"
I shrugged with a smile. He'd get over it if I bought him a smoothie.
So with heavy steps he walked over to where Violet sat, continuing her work in peace. I watched with bated breath to watch him stand over, but rather than speak he decided to look at her computer screen slightly. After a few seconds she registered he wasn't just passing through. She paused for a moment, side-eyeing Jade, waiting for him to say something.
He straightened his back before clearing his throat. "I hold a bevy of negative feelings for you, many I don't have specific reasoning for, but I've stuck to them for a while now. But since those feelings aren't going to change anything, I'm going to…" He searched for the words. "Extend an olive branch."
She glanced back at him before continuing her work. "Barring Topaz chewing you out again, what is to say you will not simply burn it at your convenience?"
"Everything about you reeks of mystery; I've never been able to trust it," He admitted. "The fact you moved in with my best friend and his uncle despite such a dubious, unknown past has always concerned me. Yet everyone seems to trust you and Amethyst, welcoming you both with open arms despite that. So, I suppose this olive branch is me giving it to them rather than you. I'll trust them and take you for what I know and not what I don't."
She turned to look at him finally, staring at him for a long moment before responding. "I have no reason to not accept, though you should expect that I will not be surprised if you burn it, and that I expect you to apologize to Amethyst."
He folded his arms. "I won't lie, I'm a rather difficult person, so I dunno when I'm burnin' or not, but if I do Amethyst wrong I'll be sure to apologize. In fact, next time I see her I will."
"You being difficult is the one aspect I can rely upon," Violet said flatly.
Oddly enough Jade did not object to that statement. "I've been told to bugger off more than enough times to know that perhaps sometimes I am the problem. Whether I meant to or not."
He shook his head. "But before I make any further statements or promises, I'd like to ask you one last question for my own peace of mind. I'll accept a simple yes or no."
She raised an eyebrow in response.
"Besides Rogelio, have you and Amethyst ever met a legendary pokemon in the Sinnoh region before? Yes or no?" He asked simply.
My ears perked up at the question. Why would he need to know that?
Violet considered her response for a long moment. Until finally, she simply nodded her head. Jade breathed a sigh of relief at her answer.
"Thank you for your honesty, that's all I needed."
"I have a question in turn, then."
"Ask away," He waved.
"Why does this knowledge relieve you?"
He gave her a thoughtful glance as he folded his arms. "Because… I believe keeping that secret is unimaginably important to both you and Amethyst. And if I break that trust there will be consequences. I already had a feeling you did considering everything you know about legendaries, but also the unique reverence you hold towards that shrine you take everywhere you go," He noted as he placed his hands on his hips.
"Saying no would've confirmed you're not willing to trust me which is fine, I can live with that. But the fact you said yes… to a human you don't even like. Now that speaks volumes. So I'm relieved to witness your uncensored self."
She gave him an odd look. "The question you asked is vague enough to where I need not divulge specifics. Though I do find it strange that holding knowledge we both would kill without hesitation to keep from the wrong people brings you relief."
He shrugged apathetically. "I can live without specifics here, I only asked for a yes or no after all."
His apathy turned to a fiendish smirk. "Besides, maybe I find beauty in the honesty of people? Perhaps I just enjoy my relations with a bit of edge to them? Or maybe I'm as much of a fool as everyone says? You tell me."
A fool? No, this is more your devilish side. Even I can't figure you out truly, Jade. One day I will though. That's what it means to mature and bond.
"I believe a part of you is glad to have as close to blackmail as you can on us. Another is surprised and touched that we do believe you are capable of not misusing such information. Another likely enjoys an answer that provides more questions to our 'mystery'. And yet another may take this as a chance to prove yourself not the typical human you claim to be, in rightly protecting such information." She turned back to her tablet. "How accurate that assessment is ultimately falls to you."
His face returned to neutrality. "Maybe one day you'll get your definitive answer."
That's a deep analysis. I wonder if her hatred for humans stems from how much she understands them. She's never said much to Jade, but maybe all these months she's been studying what makes him tick. That assessment didn't just come from nowhere… especially since I've considered the same thoughts. Violet and Jade… so enigmatic, yet so different.
He then reached into his bag and pulled out a ziploc bag with a hairbrush with purple hairs on it. "This is yours. I kept it in case Shizu needed to track you by scent on the off chance you and Amethyst decided to run when we really didn't want you to run." He paused. "Sorry."
Violet took it after a moment before reaching into her bag and pulling out a box of artist's pencils. "And this is yours. I kept it until you decided to give our things back of your own choice, and to make my point known."
Jade immediately gave me the side eye before turning back to Violet as he took his pencils back. "Thanks. Now that that's all settled, we can get back to business."
He showed her Rhea's notes as he pointed to somewhere on the page. "These herbs here grow in the Crown Tundra and also grow in Sinnoh. Rogelio might feel a kinship towards them as Roselia would towards roses. Could you crosscheck some databases to note specific areas they'd be growing en masse in the wilderness, right now? There's accounts of grass type pokemon flourishing in areas filled with their preferred wild fauna."
"Give me a moment to check their required conditions and I will determine where, if anywhere, they would grow in Sinnoh," she replied simply.
He nodded at her before returning to his seat with Rhea's notes as he began to scroll through the pages once again. Meanwhile, I was… frankly astonished by how that conversation went.
Has Jade always been this mature and he's just been making everyone's lives difficult for fun? I can never tell with this guy.
"So uhhh was that so hard?" I asked cautiously.
He shrugged, not looking up. "It was fine." And he refused to elaborate further.
I truly could not make out what he was feeling at the moment, neither him or Violet. It was much easier to determine a pokemon's vibe than a human's. But I knew them both well enough. They were processing and they had developed, that was enough for now. It also likely impacted Violet much less than it did Jade.
What happens when Strength and The Devil work in tandem? I wonder…
~x3x~
PoV: Topaz Heart
Location: Sandgem Pokemon Lab
Time: Noon
Ever since Jade and Violet's discussion it's been oddly… tranquil. After so much time of clear tension and disdain between the two of them, to have it be resolved with a simple conversation was unexpected. When we finished our work for the day and the pokemon reunited with us, Jade began his new era of amicability by greeting Amethyst properly.
She nearly jumped out of her fur at a simple 'Hello Amethyst, how was your training?'. She said Jade being nice to her all of a sudden sent her into shock a little bit, but it was better than his usual. Her reaction was largely the same as Violet's after proper explanation, but she was willing to give it a shot as well.
Jade and I's teams were skeptical of this sudden truce between Jade and Violet, but I explained to them that sometimes we just need to talk things out in private. Jade also implored his team to try and be a bit more open, much to Flax's hesitation, but Gautier seemed to be gradually taking him out of his shell so we'll see.
From then on we all developed a daily routine. We'd wake up, tend to our needs before helping Professor Rowan with research. Our teams spent this time gap enjoying the freedom of the pasture, getting to know pokemon and training. Once we finished our research for the day, we'd reunite with our teams and spend the rest of the day with them.
Honestly, I was quite enjoying this lifestyle. It had been awhile since I had been given such an intensive, thought provoking task that wasn't training Holyn. Even better was how well Violet, Jade and I worked together.
There was never miscommunication, undue argument or pointless leads. We all trusted we knew what we were doing and with the guidance of the researchers performed well.
Besides research, I had begun working with Lou on his aerial tactics. His manipulation of string shot had long since been mastered, so applying it with flight was a cinch.
While electricity is easier to utilize in the air, it doesn't always immobilize the enemy. Webbing getting tangled in an enemy avian's wings could hinder the movement immensely and if electrically charged, paralyze them.
Amethyst has been working on getting him more accustomed to complex flight patterns when fighting opponents that can fly without wings. A completely different breed of challenge, but we figured webbing could still slow down an opponent or we catch them in a giant web.
Nothing we've devised has worked on Amethyst perfectly yet, but that was a testament to her skill. We were grateful for someone to point out all the weaknesses we had there.
Holyn, Zenara and Gautier have begun to get closer. She sort of became the little leader of their group, informing them of everyone's quirks and dynamics since they were the newest. She told them stories of her adventures, fights and all that. Gautier, we learned, was quite a bit older than both of them, but he found their company pleasing. He was especially fond of Zenara's battle stories since they tended to err on the more violent side. Apparently, he found it quite… beautiful. I'm beginning to understand why he chose Jade as a trainer at least.
Flax always accompanied Gautier, albeit he never said much around the group. Zenara and Holyn were respectful of his silence, so no problems arose. Shizu still didn't seem to have any close bonds with anyone besides Jade, but she has been a bit kinder to Amethyst, Violet and myself. Noticeably, she ignored pokemon such as Donut, Zenara or Cenza. I just don't think she respects non-predator pokemon as much as predators. She even seemed to get along best with Rowan's Weavile, the most predator pokemon around.
Shizu's suspected discrimination aside, Cenza has quickly become one of Rogelio's closest confidants. She wasn't on any of our teams so she tended to rotate between us all, but lately she has found joy in keeping him company through all the research.
Rogelio never complained about all the scans, blood analysis or the bevy of other tests that had to be done, but I could tell he was appreciative of Cenza always being in sight.
So time went on working in the lab. I was currently analyzing data Violet had sent to devise possible recommended training plans for Rogelio specifically. Jade was advising Rogelio on how to utilize his growing powers akin to how he taught Flax. While Violet was working on more of the Pokemon security system.
Zenara had stopped in the lab to hang out with Cenza, so currently they were spark speaking. It never ceased to amaze when electric types communicate via electrical transfer rather than words. To them it's easier and faster to get sentiments across versus speaking.
At some point, Professor Rowan walked in looking closely at his tablet. As he looked up his glance fell upon Cenza, noting her leather (silk?) harness. He watched her communicate for a few seconds longer before he turned to us.
"I had been intending to ask, but what is the purpose of the harness on Cenza?" He asked.
Violet glanced over. "She has difficulty generating a healthy degree of charge on her own. It is designed to supplement her natural electricity generation with its own, while withstanding any stressful situations she may get into."
"Fascinating," He hummed. "Have there been any complications since she's put it on? It seemed to perform well even during Lou's evolution sequence."
Violet shook her head. "At this point in time, I believe it withstands electricity as well as I had hoped. I have no evidence to believe it would tangibly fail outside of intense combat, the type which would preferably be ignored altogether for anyone."
The Professor nodded once again deep in thought. "May I ask if this deficit is genetic or due to past injury?"
"Genetic." She paused a moment before responding. "There is a possibility that some injury neither she nor myself are aware of exacerbated it, and I highly doubt being held captive by slavers for a notable amount of time helped. But I do not think that caused its manifestation."
I ceased my work to add on. "Cenza is a pokemon that joined us after escaping the poachers. From what she's told us she's always had electrical problems, so Nurse Joy theorized she may have been born underdeveloped. We weren't sure of the exact extremes of her condition until after Benedetto was defeated."
The Professor stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Did the Pokedex not provide adequate explanation of her condition beforehand? I assume you used it, to ensure her wellbeing?"
"We got her quickly treated before we had to continue our mission, but I don't believe the Pokedex went too deep into detail at the time. It could tell there was something wrong at least," I explained thinking back. "We didn't register her to either of us, so we didn't get any alerts about her condition. That may have been a factor as well."
"While the Pokedex no longer referring to Pokemon as 'it' is widely appreciated and long overdue, its entries typically focus on combat or average home life. Most medical information I have encountered is either from Centers, or self-taught," Violet noted.
"The pokedex was devised to aid trainers in any situation, and while all trainers are taught basic pokemon medicine, we do not want them performing complex procedures or making an incorrect diagnosis due to having access to information they are not trained to comprehend," The Professor explained. "Of course different trainers have different clearance levels of information, but we typically strongly suggest recalling a pokemon and finding the closest pokemon center."
"Well if you have all the information, maybe make it available in a more… digestible way," Jade interceded suddenly, drawing all eyes on him.
He considered what to say next, likely recollecting everything I've ever said to make sense. "The pokedex is able to display all sorts of information and it has an AI that can convey that information even better. Maybe that AI needs an update? Tell people what they should or shouldn't do?"
Violet looked back to the Professor. "I believe it is important for such information to be available in a database such as the Pokedex. It does pose a risk for those without the capacity to understand such information, but checks can be implemented. Meanwhile, for those that would understand it and simply do not know, it could be life-saving."
"The Pokedex allows us to scan any pokemon and immediately gather a bevy of valuable information. If we had a more detailed analysis of Cenza's condition at the time, perhaps we could've taken better care of her rather than running her so ragged," I suggested. "We're not saying the pokedex needs to make a diagnosis for the nurses and doctors, but a pokemon health update may be due."
The Professor mulled over each of our responses, considering them all carefully. "I do believe this is rather feasible if I make some adjustments. It'll be a more grand project to undertake, but the Pokedex team has been looking for areas to improve upon." He typed something into his tablet. "You all have your tasks here, but if you're interested I can involve you in this proposition as well. Though, the update most certainly will not be complete before you all must return to Sunyshore."
I shook my head. "Then before we leave I ought to contribute as much as I can. I'm getting the hang of research work and I'm eager to do more."
"If it has the potential to save even one life, I will give my all," Violet said simply. I noticed Amethyst rolling her eyes with a grin behind her.
Jade whistled. "I cannot code for the life of me, so I'll keep working on Rogelio if ya don't mind."
"Then Topaz, Violet come speak to me when you've completed your work and we can begin initiating this project," The Professor informed us. He then turned to Jade. "You may not be able to code, but you've applied many skills that take some of my researchers years to hone. Keep up the good work."
Jade's eyebrows went all the way up as he looked away, quietly and bashfully accepting Professor Rowan's honest compliment. I rubbed his shoulder in good spirit. Typically our teachers scold him for being a menace in the classroom, but in truth he's always been a hard worker. To have it recognized was validating.
"That aside, thank you all for the inspiration, I shall attend to it immediately," The Professor stated as he left the room. We all returned to our work right after, but a giddy expression remained on my face.
This is the sort of work I live for! This fulfilling feeling. I've always wanted to make a difference somehow. If this is how I can do it, then I am honored.
~x4x~
PoV: Topaz Heart
Location: Sandgem Pokemon Lab
Time: Next Day - Midday
{Are you done yet?} Holyn asked me, lazing bored by my feet.
"Not quite," I answered, enthralled by the work on my laptop. "I'm reviewing the data Jade and Violet collected for the Calyrex pokedex entry. Once I've finished that I can consider what steps we ought to take to uncover their mysteries. Cynthia also sent me some interesting excerpts from obscure ancient texts she had in her library, so I plan on adding those to the lore section. And then I-"
{So you're far from done,} Holyn sighed.
I scratched his chin to appease him. "I'll be done soon and then we can hang out, alright? Everyone finished their piece and now I've gotta do mine."
He leaned into the scratching. {All the pieces look kind of boring, but everyone makes it sound super important, so I'll wait.}
"Good boy," I thanked him.
"It's lovely to see how your partners cherish spending time with you," Professor Rowan's deep voice stated, alerting me that he had listened in. I turned around to see him carrying some folders and two cups of tea, placing one by my hand. The scent refreshed my mind.
A lovely chamomile.
"Thank you Professor, I appreciate every moment I get to spend with them." I faced Holyn. "But we all have to make time for other endeavors. I appreciate you sticking by me, even if it's a li'l boring."
Holyn leaned into my touch fondly earning a smile from each of us. The Professor watched relaxed as he sipped his tea, as though he were considering something.
"If you do not mind me asking, how are your father's pokemon? They live in Alola, yes?" He asked.
"Hm? Oh, well, they seemed fine last time I saw them. Some help around at my grandparents' bakery, while the others found other jobs to keep busy. I know they miss him, but they're happy as is," I explained.
"I see… I've not seen them in quite some time, so I am pleased to hear that. Thank you."
My father met most of his pokemon while traveling for the Professor, but they've all settled in Alola nicely. The night dad was taken they were either relaxing in Alola or helping researchers in Sinnoh, hence why they're just as confused as to where he went. He loved them dearly and they doted on me when I visited, but they haven't been back to Sunyshore in years.
"On another note, have you ever seen a Volcarona in Sunyshore? Even in passing?" He asked.
The professor was strangely talkative right now. Especially since it wasn't work related, but he had my interest with these questions.
"None that I've noticed. Why?"
"I was simply wondering if Lifa has ever paid you a visit," He answered.
Lifa?
I had seen that name in Rhea's records. "She was Rhea's partner, right?"
"Her one and only," He replied. "They grew up together and were a force to be reckoned with. She alone was a match for Rod's team despite her more peaceful countenance."
Holyn and I turned to face him properly so we could listen to his story better.
"She was a gentle moth with especially soft hair, a warm presence and calm eyes. She only fought when needed and hated unnecessary conflict. She used her abilities to protect Rhea, aid in her research and preserve life. So when she failed to save her own partner's life she fell into a deep depression."
His voice was solemn, recalling the anguish of an old friend.
"She wanted nothing to do with the person Vanna became ever since Rhea's death. Something had changed in them both, but whatever afflicted Vanna had turned her into a cold, disdainful person," Rowan spat. "In the event of a disaster, Rhea left Lifa in my care so I found the best grief specialists to aid her healing journey once she was ready. It took some time, but one day she found me in private and we shared a silent conversation… her heart would not move on, but her body would. She was to leave the lab."
He paused, recollecting old memories.
"Before she left, Rod, myself and a young you said our goodbyes. She had nothing but love for us all, but she needed to go and so we did not object, but not without letting her know she always has a home here," He finished.
"Have you seen her since?" I asked.
"She is seen when she wishes to be seen. Appearing before my field researchers when and where they least expect it. As if to tell me 'I am okay'. That is enough," He stated, closing his eyes.
I furrowed my brow in deep thought as Holyn rubbed the tears from his eyes from the sad tale.
If something happened to me… would Lou end up like Lifa?
"I'm sorry to say I've never seen her, but if I do I'll let her know you're waiting for her. Waiting for her to be okay enough to come back."
He shook his head. "She has no obligation to come see me. Too many memories are associated with her time here."
I smiled at him. "Even so, that doesn't mean she never wants to come back or that you don't want to see her. It sounds like she considers you family and that she never wants you to worry about her. She loves you as you do her, Professor."
The Professor was quiet, ruminating in thought at words before he began to stroke his beard. "Even at my age, my goodness… I rarely recount this tale and when I do a much needed, plain answer is given to me. You are right, Topaz."
"I've been learning a lot from you, so it makes sense I learned how to give good advice," I chuckled.
"Well at least you're absorbing something from this brief tenure," He huffed.
I laughed a bit more at that when I realized there was something I had never considered. "No one ever talks about my mom's partner pokemon? Did she have any?"
"Because there is not much to say. She worked with pokemon when her research required it, but she kept no personal partners. She had a fondness for more advanced species such as Metagross and Froslass, but only for the depth of their abilities and less so any emotional attachment," He answered quickly. "I did not fault her for this. Not everyone involved with pokemon needs one as well… although…"
"Hm?"
"She had a strange camaraderie with a wild female duskull that she maintained over the years. I've only seen them less than a handful of times, but they seemed to be close although they never officially became partners," He recalled, stroking his beard. "She never elaborated upon their relationship much nor did I ever meet this duskull directly, but I remember overhearing that her name was Juliet. But after Vanna left for the Tohjo War, I never saw her again."
Juliet the Duskull… I wonder if she knows what happened to my parents.
I folded my arms. "I've seen a bunch of Duskull around Route 214 and while they seem nice, they never seemed to be in the conversating mood. They just sort of float around you and watch from afar."
"Be glad that's all they do," The Professor warned. "Many other ghosts would do far worse for far less."
{Like that Misdreavus that took out Donut with that cheap trick!} Holyn interjected.
"I don't plan on angering any ghosts," I assured them. "All I can do right now is keep researching Calyrex content for Rogelio."
The Professor hummed. "I've noticed you're quite fond of this type of work. Have you ever considered the path of a researcher? If you want to help more legendaries, this is the best course of action. They tend to find them most often."
My mind had danced with the possibility already. I really do love this kind of work.
"I'm not sure what I wanna do yet. I just know that one day I wanted to be as integral to the region as Volkner or Cynthia. For right now, that's being Volkner's protege," I answered honestly.
"And you'll learn much from that role. Until you make a decision," He laid some files before me. "I've amassed some more info for you to consider in Calyrex's entry. It's not much, but something to pay attention to."
I accepted the files eagerly as the professor began to walk out. He turned his head slightly before he walked out the door. "Thank you for answering my questions so openly. I did not mean to pry."
I shook my head. "Thank you for telling me those stories. They're what I needed to hear."
He gave me a curt smile as he walked away. Once he was out of sight, Holyn perked up and began sniffing my table.
"Holyn, it's paper not a snack," I warned him, but he ignored me as clumsily began poking the file Rowan had given me.
{I think it's more than paper. It actually seems cool for one thing,} He retorted, eyeing me inspect the file.
I began flipping through the papers to spy a card amidst the files. I picked it up and held it towards Holyn so he could see better. On the card stood Professor Rowan holding a Pokeball and suitcase, wearing his usual brown waistcoat. He appeared to be standing within a library judging by the shelves of books in the background. While in the bottom right, middle and left corner sat Lucas, Dawn and Barry, looking up at him with their backs faced towards us.
"Hierophant V," I read at the bottom of the card.
I looked up where Rowan had walked away. "The Hierophant, arcana of wisdom. Representing mentorship and guidance from years of experience. While they may have more traditional views at times, it comes from a long past of learning. The Hierophant informs us when it is time to embrace tradition and conform to what has worked before. They teach us humility and modesty when we need us most, giving us informed advice so we can tread well."
The card shimmered after my explanation as though pleased by my own well informed statement.
{Wow… so Mr. Rowan is one of these Hierophant people?} Holyn asked.
"It seems so. Another person important to me," I whispered to myself.
And another person that's helped me grow. This trip has proven more needed with each passing day.
I stood up, facing Holyn. "We should tell the others. This is invaluable for the research or well at least Rogelio's development."
"Topaz, Holyn? Are you there? Are you forging strong bonds with your fellows?"
As if in queue, Rogelio poked his head through the door staring at us, his crown glowing slightly before returning to normal. "Ah I sensed you two harnessed a new arcana. I must say I'm unsurprised, but please give me details as to why and how. I love bonding stories."
~x5x~
PoV: Topaz Heart
Location: Sandgem Pokemon Lab
Time: A Week Later - Morning
After attaining a new card I thought we'd have even more work to do, but the Professor actually got on top of it rather quickly. The pokedex noted the slight increase in power, but for now it was nominal.
Either way, he was pleased to see progress so we continued as usual. Although, working on two extremely intensive projects while also needing to train your pokemon was exhausting. Holyn was right, I needed to take a few more breaks and no one had a problem with it. As long as the standard was completed. I had a tendency to go well beyond it.
Every day after we finished, Violet and I would switch over to assisting with the Pokedex update. That required a totally different skill set and we were a bit less hands on. There's a lot that goes into an update beyond coding, but we tried to make sense of it where we could.
At the end of each day I didn't even bother reading to sleep, I'd just collapse in bed, wake up and start it all over again. And it was exactly what I've been looking to do.
Until last night, Rogelio asked if he could finally head to Sunyshore. All the attention and tests had begun to wear on him and he was ready to be left in peace.
Professor Rowan, the respectful man that he is, honored his wishes. That night was to be our final official night staying on the lab grounds.
It was around 11:00am and we all were at the outdoor dining area, waiting for Rowan to see us off before Sakura came to teleport us back to Sunyshore. We all said our goodbyes to Lucas, Dawn, Barry and their partners earlier, so now it was just the Professor.
I sat at a table with Jade and Violet, sipping a breakfast smoothie and staring out at the wide open fields filled with all the pokemon I had yet to properly meet.
Jade yawned loudly as he stretched out in his chair. "I am too ready to pass out in my own bed, bathe in my own shower and tend my own garden. If anyone asks me to write another note or make another training regimen, I'm setting them on fire."
He would too.
Flax nodded in agreement by his feet, whilst Shizu was sitting patiently. Gautier stood relatively still, the dots on his body blinking periodically.
Violet, in stark contrast, was as focused on typing away on her tablet as ever, Amethyst chilling on her shoulder and Zenara chattering about more training ideas she was having.
"Topaz, it's been awhile since you've been back home, whatcha gonna do?" Jade asked me.
I slowly turned my attention towards him, pondering what could be done. "Well, I guess I should prolly attend some school considering how long it's been. Otherwise, it'll be getting Holyn settled."
Rogelio floated over to my side, coughing not so subtly. I rolled my eyes. "And a certain legendary who should already know Sunyshore as well as I do."
"I've yet to experience it personally. For example, there's a clear difference between exploring a city through the virtual lens of a computer versus your own body, yes?" Rogelio stated.
"If that's so, you must visit my home's garden and give it your legendary blessing," Jade suggested. "It'd be a mutual honor."
"Hmmm, I shall consider it!" Rogelio mused in thought. "I cannot wait to arrive in Sunyshore for myself."
"Are you sure you cannot wait a moment longer? I would like to properly commend you all," The Professor's voice intruded as he strolled towards us, a suitcase in hand. We all walked over to him to give him our full attention.
He cleared his throat before speaking, first addressing Jade, Violet and I. "While our meeting was unexpected, I am grateful to have worked with you all in this brief period of time. All three of you show great promise in your fields of interest and I only hope you continue this trend of growth so they may take you wherever you wish to go as adults."
I nodded gratefully. "Thank you Professor, but I personally want to thank you for helping Rogelio, Lou and myself. We couldn't have accomplished everything we needed to do without your guidance."
"I am especially grateful, Professor. If not for you, I may still be without a body, a forgotten pokemon unable to awaken," Rogelio added. He bowed gracefully in respect. "You have my eternal gratitude."
{Before we had properly met I had wondered why the Champions spoke so highly of you, but I now know you have more than earned your reputation. Thank you for motivating me to realize my full potential,} Lou buzzed.
The Professor grunted at us all, as he usually did. This was an affirming grunt from what I've noticed. He was satisfied. "I became a researcher to better help others understand the world and themselves better. It is my greatest pleasure to have been able to help all of you and you all in turn to provide me new information to educate the world."
"So all the data we collected on Calyrex? Was it sufficient?" Jade asked.
"Yes, it was. It is rare we meet a legend so welcome to such intensive scientific observation. All of your efforts helped expedite what we could learn about the species within a short period. I want to convene with other Professors first, but the Calyrex dex entry will soon be properly updated with as much information as needed," He answered, turning to Rogelio. "Of course, any personal details relating your origin will be off the record. You will not be compromised."
"Thank you for your discretion," Rogelio nodded at him.
The Professor turned to Jade. "I understand research is not your main goal in life, but you should be proud of what you accomplished this past week. I hope the financial compensation pleased you. I wish you luck in your acting and bonding with your fellow peers."
Jade waved him off. "Thanks Prof, for the money and compliments, but I'm on hiatus. But hopefully I'll find some more fame and fortune via other means."
I had no clue what he meant by that, but Professor Rowan didn't press him as he turned to Violet.
"As for you, I would say you're an excellent fit for research on paper, but the way you treat pokemon tells me there's another path you'd be much better suited for," The Professor hummed. "The world could always use more pokemon rangers for example."
She looked up at him, nodding after a moment. "Perhaps. The title matters less than assisting Pokemon to the best of my capabilities."
"Yet even a title can instill trust and hope in others. Remember that," he added.
He then turned to me properly. "You've been flourishing in this environment, Topaz. You have a knack for research, discovering the unexpected and a talent of working with a…" He glanced at literally everyone else. "A diverse range of clashing personalities. You'd make an excellent research fellow. I would appreciate it if we could arrange a direct line between myself and your pokedex entries."
My eyes widened at the sentiment while my heart skipped a beat. This was immense praise from someone like him. I hadn't expected it, but it felt so good to hear. "Thank you Professor, I'd be honored. I'll be sure to take even better notes than ever before!"
A giant hand clapped me on the back, nearly knocking me over. I turned around to see Roland, smiling down on me. {You finally look over your slump. Looks like this trip was exactly what you needed.}
I considered his sentiment. I was feeling really good lately. I no longer felt like I was wallowing in stagnation. I was… moving forward.
The Professor placed his suitcase on a nearby table. "Before you all leave, I have a special gift for Rogelio. It was crafted by a legendary Johto artisan I'm well acquainted with, made with materials befitting a new deity of Sinnoh."
The suitcase popped open revealing a single scarlet pokeball with black indents coiled around it. The morning light glistened on the flawless surface of the red pokeball, shining upon us all. The metal was absolutely gorgeous, almost crystalline in appearance.
Jade gazed upon it in clear interest, while Violet and Amethyst both did a double take upon seeing it.
"This is a Cherish Ball," The Professor explained. "A pokeball crafted in commemoration of special occasions. Its design is modeled after the fabled Origin Ball from the Hisuian era and only a select few know the exact process to create one. It is a pokeball whose rarity surpasses the infamous Master Ball."
"It looks so simple yet, the sheen of this metal… it looks…" I stared at the pokeball, its surface reflecting my own visage and possibly something more. "Otherworldly. Does it have any special effects?"
The Professor shook his head. "None that I've observed. Most would say it's most valued for personal sentiment of a blissful memory."
He turned to Rogelio who had been staring at it thoughtfully. "I thought it best you have your own pokeball for security purposes. You would be free as you are now, but with a pokeball of your own."
"I see…" Rogelio marveled. "This gift… I see the value in it, but am I so deserving of such a thing? Would a regular pokeball not suffice?"
{Maybe it would, but…} Holyn interjected as he gestured towards us all. {The Professor said it's for special occasions right? So maybe think of it less for just you, but all of us. We all wouldn't be here if you hadn't popped up, but you did and now we're all really great friends. Isn't that enough reason to celebrate?}
"Ah… you're right, Young Holyn," Rogelio answered. "I am overthinking. This is a joyous occasion and it deserves a fitting gift." He turned to the Professor. "Thank you once again, I shall take it."
He floated up towards the Cherish Ball, gently pushing the button. Seconds later he was absorbed in a mystical red light, different than any other pokeball's aura I had ever seen. The pokeball wiggled as it would any other before a capture was confirmed.
Immediately after, I got a notification from my pokedex alongside Jade and Violet. We all checked to see a new entry had been officially recorded.
"I've compiled a preliminary official entry for Calyrex and gave you all clearance," The Professor explained. "His pokeball belongs to himself, but you all worked too hard for that information to not have it readily available."
The Cherish Ball opened once again, unleashing its odd red aura and Rogelio from within. "Hmmm, pokeballs are quite… different from how you all describe them."
{In a good or bad way?} Cenza asked.
"Not sure yet. But it did feel like a special occasion," Rogelio mused as he picked up his pokeball, minimizing it before hiding it behind his cape. Violet and Amethyst had seemed like they were going to voice their thoughts, but the conversation had assuaged whatever they were.
Amethyst suddenly snapped her fingers, looking at Rogelio. {Hey, Topaz got another card the other day, right? And everyone you fiddled with their brains to understand Pokemon is someone he's got a card for. Now that Rowan's on that list, d'you think the same would apply to him?}
Rogelio looked up at the ceiling deep in thought before shaking his head. "It does not seem possible yet. My limit remains at four humans."
"We believe establishing the connection was the first step, but even though he regained some of his true potential, it seems his new body still needs to grow and be trained," I explained using what we learned from our research.
She shrugged. {Figured I'd bring it up before I forgot and while we're still here.}
Sakura then walked in, Summer right behind her. [So, is everyone ready to head home?]
{A foolish question to ask Donut as he's always ready to go home,} Lou snidely spoke up.
Donut scoffed in return. {I'm not gonna argue with you because I really do wanna go home.}
"We're all ready," I laughed awkwardly.
Sakura nodded. [Then anyone who's comfortable entering a Pokeball, please do so until we're in Sunyshore. It makes teleportation easier.]
"Still should be Sunnyshore…" Summer muttered to herself.
"Isn't it pronounced the same?" Jade questioned as he recalled his team.
"We don't claim 'Sunnyshore' Jade, we've talked about this," I corrected him as I recalled my own team and Cenza.
Violet just rolled her eyes, Zenara entering her Pokeball while Amethyst stayed by Violet's side. Amethyst couldn't help but chuckle though. {I can't wait to go to Sowpoint someday.}
"That's a totally different word!" I pointed out.
{Yeah, and it's missing an n just the same,} Amethyst fired back
{I now share the same sentiment as Jade and Donut. I would like to return to Volkner's silent,} Roland enunciated, {side.}
Sakura just shook her head with a smile before her eyes glowed purple. There was the faintest sense of lightness, like an elevator just beginning to move, before we were in front of the Sunyshore gym.
"That was… really smooth, wow!" I turned to Sakura, as Jade, Violet and I summoned our teams again. "Amethyst truly could learn a lot from you."
Sakura tried to hold back a grin before she couldn't anymore, snorting in amusement. [Like how the shore should be sunny?]
Amethyst smirked alongside her. {See, I told you she's a good person to learn from!}
"Why is it only spelled with one 'n'?" Rogelio asked.
"Character limitations," Violet immediately answered, rubbing Zenara's head in the same breath.
Rogelio looked like he had even more questions, until the front door of the gym opened up revealing Volkner and surprisingly enough Cynthia.
"Oh good, you're all here," He noted plainly. "Welcome back."
Roland immediately placed himself firmly by Volkner's side. {I've returned Topaz and the others home safely. Now in turn I need the most intensive battle gauntlet you can think of. I crave a thrill and a challenge.}
Cynthia waved with a grin. "I'm sure you're all glad to be back." Her gaze turned to Rogelio. "And I'm sure you're looking forward to being able to interact with the city now."
Rogelio gave the air an enthusiastic sniff. "The air truly does smell like sunkissed salt… oh how I've longed to be able to experience the place Topaz loves so much in the flesh."
"You've got to see the best part though! Holyn, come on!" I said, grabbing Rogelio's tiny paw, pulling him over to one of the nearest solar panel bridge. My team followed behind with everyone else close behind.
I placed Rogelio on the railing of the bridge with Holyn jumping onto it to see properly. I gestured onwards to the glistening ocean, the sparkling panels and most importantly, the sunny shore. To all the beautiful sights that've made me love this place.
"This city is your new home now," I said softly to Holyn and Rogelio. "This is where I grew up, where the whole team has grown up. And we're gonna keep growing, in the best city in the world."
{There's so much water…} Holyn stared in awe. {It's so shiny compared to everywhere else we've been. I never knew a place could look like this.}
{Yeah, west Sinnoh is kind of drab in comparison, ain't it?} Donut mused mischievously. {But this is our charm.}
Rogelio wiped a tear from his eye. "I'm blessed beyond words to be able to live to see this. To finally have a place to call home. To have people that won't forget me."
Cynthia walked up, gently putting a hand on Rogelio's back. "And people who'll make sure you won't be forgotten for a long time to come. Feeling like you're home is an important part of that, after all."
I noticed Zenara cuddle up to Violet, who then picked her up and held her close along with Amethyst. In a rare moment of quiet for her, she just gazed at the sea like how Violet and Amethyst were.
Maybe they could see the ocean from their home too.
Meanwhile, Flax had climbed onto Jade's shoulder as they stared intensely into the ocean with a new focus written on each of their faces. By his feet loyally stood Shizu and Gautier, staring out as well.
Lou hovered by my face, releasing an uncharacteristic sigh. {Gazing upon this ocean again reminds me of my entire life, my General. It has reminded me that the time I've spent with you all in this city has been the happiest of my life.} He turned to me, buzzing with affection. {I am eager to reacquaint myself with it as my new self and with our new allies.}
"May we all stand tall in the sunlight, now and forever," I replied soothingly, allowing myself complete peace.
~Chapter 35 & Arc 4: Reincarnation of the True King Fin~Question: What would you like to see the cast do back in Sunyshore City? Training, shopping, domestic life, taking down criminals?
Author's Note: Another arc complete! We are back in Sunyshore with a bunch of new characters and more on the way! I can't wait to write it! Please leave a review if you have thoughts!
Gym Trainer: Topaz Heart
Class: Junior Gym Trainer
Deck: Fool, Devil, Strength, Hermit, Fortune.
Brothers in Arms: Lou (Vikavolt), Donut (Pikachu), Holyn (Cranidos).
x
Human Companion: Violet
Pokemon Family: Amethyst (MeowsticF), Zenara (Mareep).
x
Gym Leader: Volkner Beacon
Main Team: Roland (Electivire), Froberge (Luxray), Zerbino (Magnezone), Marsil (Ambipom), Ganelon (Octillery), River (Mudkip).
x
Blooming Celebrity: Jade Forrest
Co-Stars: Flax (Roselia), Shizu (Houndour), Gautier (Dottler).
x
Allies: Cenza (Dedenne), Rogelio (Calyrex).