Chapter 5 - Daybreak Division
The towering spire of the Daybreak Division loomed before the three, its weathered stone facade steeped in history. The beacon of hope and dream as people would describe it, a refugee heaven for those who wished to erase their past and craft their future. Intricate carvings of mythical Pokémon and celestial motifs adorned the arched doorway, giving it the air of an ancient tower. Above the entryway, the Division's banner rippled gently in the wind, depicting a vivid sun cresting over the horizon, a proud symbol of reminiscence and renewal.
"Here goes nothing," said Axel as he hesitantly pushed the large wooden door.
As they stepped inside, the atmosphere shifted. The air was heavier and carried the faint scent of parchment and candle wax. The foyer was vastly spacious, bustled with Pokémon of all kinds, their movements purposeful. A grand tapestry depicting a radiant sun hung across the far wall, adding to the sense of reverence the place commanded.
Skarn's eyes drew a circle to the towering mechanism overhead. Thick ropes wound through an intricate network of pulleys and gears, each component reinforced with glistening steel. Carriages of polished wood and metal glided gracefully along the taut lines, ferrying Pokémon between the vast, layered floors of the Division. Overhead, Flying types swooped deftly through the open spaces, assisting with cargo or guiding passengers to the right platforms.
The system hummed with life, the deep vibrations of machinery mixing with the rhythmic chants of the burly Machamps operating the primary winches. The Division took great pride in this method of travelling between floors, easing the burden of having to walk through flights of stairs after a long arduous journey from the dungeons.
"Hey ho! Hey ho!"
Their synchronized voices reverberated across the chamber, each chant punctuated by a coordinated heave of effort. The machamps' muscles rippled as they worked in perfect unison, powering the lifts with sheer strength, their teamwork a testament to their discipline.
A low rumbling sound came from a distant as groups of Pokémon rushed pass them, hurrily checking the wooden boards that lined the walls. Small glyphs of light occasionally flickered over the boards as a gothorita attendant nearby magically updated the postings.
"Look at this place!" Skarn's voice cracked with amazement, his head spinning as he tried to take it all in.
Axel remained silent, his golden eyes wide as he took slow steps forward, mesmerized by the seamless fusion of magic and machinery. Amber lingered close, her own gaze flickering between the glowing boards and the aerial pathways, her expression carefully neutral yet betraying hints of awe. As they unknowingly pressed forwards, a figure had paid attention to them.
Behind a large, crescent shaped desk stood a gothitelle receptionist, her expression calm and composed as her hands hovered over several glowing glyphs, sorting through a flurry of incoming requests. For a moment, her azure eyes glanced up, drawn to the group. Her gaze sharpened, a subtle glint of curiosity flickering in her otherwise serene expression. With a smooth motion, she waved the glyphs aside, freeing herself from her immediate tasks.
"Welcome to Daybreak Division," she said, her voice smooth but with an edge of formality.
The trio halted, momentarily taken aback by the sudden attention. Before Axel could respond, a familiar voice cut in. "Well, if it isn't Axel," Leon said as he hopped off the carriage and strode toward them, his tail crackling faintly with static. The jolteon's sharp eyes swept over the trio before resting on Amber. His ears twitched slightly, as though catching some faint trace of familiarity in her scent. "And who's this? I don't think we've been introduced."
"Leon, she is the one I told you about at the tavern brawl." Axel stepped forward in between Leon and Amber. "Her name's Amber."
The gothitelle receptionist turned to Amber as well. Her piercing gaze lingered, her fingers pausing mid-motion over her desk as though something about Amber's presence had struck a chord. "Amber, is it?" she asked, her tone neutral but probing. "That name... it's quite distinct. You wouldn't happen to share ties with the neighboring kingdom Lunaris, would you?"
Amber stiffened slightly, though she quickly masked her unease with a soft laugh. "Oh, no, no relation at all," she said smoothly, a hint of playfulness in her voice. "I think it's just a coincidence. Amber isn't that uncommon of a name, is it?"
Leon narrowed his eyes slightly, clearly unconvinced but not pressing further. The gothitelle hummed softly, her gaze lingering on Amber for a moment longer before returning to her desk.
"Well, if you'll excuse me," the receptionist said, her tone polite but distracted. "The Division's quite busy today. Leon, I trust you'll show them around?"
Leon's ears twitched, and his tone was brisk. "Call Finn."
The gothitelle raised a brow, but Leon didn't elaborate. "He knows this place even better than I do. Besides," he added, glancing toward the wide hallway leading to the entrance, "I've got pressing matters to deal with at the Palace."
"King Asdeur?" the gothitelle asked knowingly.
"King Asdeur," Leon confirmed curtly, his tail crackled with faint static.
The gothitelle sighed, a low, weary sound. "Part of me wishes we didn't have to get too tangled up with him. But then again..." She gestured at the bustling chamber around them. "He's the reason Daybreak Division is running at full potential. It's hard to argue with the results."
Her voice softened slightly as she added, "Not to mention the loss of Team Moonscar. We'll need a proper ceremony for him, after all what he's done."
At the mention of his father, Axel's ears twitched slightly. He instinctively slowed his pace, his sharp hearing picking up the murmured exchange between Leon and the gothitelle. Though Skarn and Amber walked ahead, Axel lingered nearby, his golden eyes narrowing as he strained to catch more of the conversation.
Leon's expression darkened for a moment, his usual sharpness giving way to a flicker of something heavier, respect, perhaps, or grief, but he masked it quickly. "We'll deal with that soon enough. For now, we must rebuild what was left of his legacy."
Axel froze in place, his claws pressing faintly against the tiled floor. His father's name echoed in his mind, the weight of it hitting him like a blow. He lowered his head slightly, his chest tightening with a mix of grief and frustration.
The conversation continued, but Axel heard no more. His gaze dropped to the floor, his mind churning with emotions he could not untangle. He felt a light tap on his shoulder, jolting him out of his thoughts.
"Axel?" Skarn's voice was soft but concerned. "You okay?"
Axel blinked and quickly shook his head. "Yeah... I'm fine. Let's keep moving."
The gothitelle's sharp eyes flicked toward Axel, as though she had noticed his hesitation. Her serene expression softened ever so slightly. "Leon told us everything about you Axel," she said gently, her voice almost inquisitive.
Axel stiffened, his shoulders tightening, but he managed a small nod.
The gothitelle's calm gaze lingered on him for a moment longer before she straightened and clasped her hands together. "Forgive me, I haven't introduced myself. My name is Vienna," she said, inclining her head with grace. "If you or your companions ever need assitance within the Division, simply call for me. I'll do my best to help."
"Thank you," Axel murmured, though his voice was strained.
Vienna's expression remained composed, though her tone softened as she addressed the group. "Finn will be here momentarily to guide you through the Division. And, Axel..." She paused, her gaze meeting his. "Your father was a remarkable Pokémon. You'll find his strength in yourself, in time."
Axel did not respond, his jaw tightening as he tried to suppress the storm of emotions brewing within him.
Moments later, the sound of hurried footsteps broke the tension as a small, energetic buizel dashed into view. His bright scarf fluttered behind him as he skidded to a stop, saluting with exaggerated enthusiasm.
"Finn's here!" the buizel announced cheerfully. "Welcome to the Division! We've met in Moonlit Courtyard. Pleasure to be your guide!"
The group turned to follow Finn, though Axel's mind remained heavy with thoughts of his father, and the weight of the expectations that seemed to grow with every passing moment.
Their first destination was no where else but the massive archive of the whole Division. The group stepped into the grand library, and their breath collectively caught in their throats. This was no ordinary library. It was a sprawling, vertical masterpiece of architectural ingenuity.
The central structure soared upward like a great tower, its cylindrical walls lined with shelves packed with books, scrolls, and manuscripts. Faintly glowing glyphs marked the edges of each shelf, shimmering with soft, pale light that illuminated the titles of countless tomes.
Bridges and walkways crisscrossed the towering structure, connecting various sections like delicate veins in a massive living organism. Each bridge had intricate carvings along its railings, depictions of legendary Pokémon, ancient battles, and celestial maps. Floating platforms, enchanted with ethereal energy, glided silently between levels, ferrying Pokémon from one section to another. Above them, a massive chandelier hung, suspended by invisible forces, casting a warm, golden glow that bathed the library in gentle light.
Amber's eyes widened as she took in the sheer scale of the place. "This is incredible," she murmured, her voice almost lost in the quiet hum of the library's magical energy. "It's so much larger than the library where I used to live. We only had two floors and maybe a tenth of this collection."
"A tenth?" Skarn echoed, spinning around to take in the scene. "How do they even keep track of all this?"
"They have help," Finn said with a grin, pointing toward one of the floating platforms where a litwick and a small espurr worked diligently, organizing scrolls. "The librarians here aren't just bookkeepers. They're researchers, historians, and even explorers who've retired from active missions. And at the top of it all…"
As if summoned, a stately noctowl descended from an upper level, his wide wings silent as they cut through the air. He landed gracefully on the railing of the nearest bridge, his circular glasses catching the light as he surveyed the newcomers.
"Ah, new visitors," he said, his voice calm and deliberate. "Welcome to the Division most treasured sanctuary. I am Archibald, the chief archivist. I trust you will tread carefully within these halls."
Amber nodded quickly, still awestruck. "Of course, Archibald. This place is… beyond words. Do you really manage all of it?"
Archibald's beak twitched into what might have been a smile. "Not alone, young vulpix. The library is alive in its own way. These glyphs," he gestured with a wing toward the glowing symbols, "ensure that knowledge is never lost and that all who seek it may find what they require. However, that does not excuse disorder."
Skarn flinched as his tail accidentally nudged a loose stack of books. Archibald's sharp gaze fixed on him for a moment before the noctowl sighed and turned back to the group. "The library is divided into five major sections," he continued. "Each section is connected by the bridges you see, with the most sensitive and valuable archives located in the uppermost tiers. Access to those areas requires special permission."
"What about that section?" Axel asked, pointing toward a shadowy corner where the glow of the glyphs seemed dimmer.
Archibald's expression grew serious. "That is the Restricted Archive. It contains knowledge deemed too dangerous or volatile for common use. Only the highest ranking members of the Division may enter, and even then, only with good reason."
Amber's curiosity flared, but she held her tongue. There was enough to explore without poking into forbidden corners… for now.
"If you have any questions or need assistance, do not hesitate to call upon myself or my assistants," Archibald concluded, spreading his wings as he prepared to take flight. "And please, do not make a mess."
As the noctowl ascended gracefully to a higher level, Finn clapped his paws together. "Alright! Where do we want to go to first?"
"I have a question, Finn," Axel said, his voice breaking the quiet awe that had settled over the group.
"Yes, Axel?" Finn replied, leaning casually against a nearby railing.
"This place," Axel began, his gaze sweeping across the vast, intricate interior, "it's massive. It feels like it goes on forever. But from the outside, the tower didn't look nearly this large. How is that possible?"
Finn chuckled, clearly delighted by the question. "Good eye, Axel. It's all thanks to the psychic Pokémon who maintain the library. Their powers expand the interior dimensions far beyond what the outside would suggest. Kind of like those mystery dungeons, bigger on the inside than the outside."
Amber's ears twitched with interest. "So the library is… enchanted?"
Finn nodded. "The whole Division is, actually. The espurr and gothita you see around here aren't just organizing books. They're constantly reinforcing the library's spatial magic. Without them, this place would collapse back into its true size. Pretty impressive, huh?"
"Impressive doesn't even begin to cover it," Amber said, her eyes scanning the glowing glyphs again. "It's no wonder this place feels so… grand."
Axel remained quiet, his gaze once again drifting toward the restricted area. After a moment, he nodded. "Yeah, it is."
The group exited the library and made their way to the carriage station. The mechanical hum of the carriages filled the air as they stepped into one, the ropes and pulleys guiding them smoothly toward the second floor. The ride was brief, but the excitement of exploring another part of the Daybreak Division made it feel even shorter. As the carriage slowed to a stop, the group stepped out into the busy Medic Floor.
This section of the Division was a stark contrast to the serene library. The air was thick with the scent of herbs and disinfectant, and Pokémon of all shapes and sizes hurried about with purpose. Rows of treatment beds lined the walls, separated by curtains for privacy. A soothing aura seemed to permeate the floor, no doubt the work of the psychic Pokémon aiding in the recovery of the injured.
Finn gestured toward the activity with a paw. "This is where the real magic happens. The Medic Floor is one of the most important parts of the Division. As our lovely receptionist have told you, a lot of the supplies and medicines here come straight from King Asdeur's treasury. Without his funding, this place wouldn't be able to operate at the level it does."
Before anyone could respond, the group's attention was drawn to a commotion near the entrance. An exploration team burst through the doors, carrying a poisoned member slumped over a rhydon's shoulder. A chansey and a clefable rushed to meet them, their expressions calm but urgent.
"What happened?" the chansey asked as she examined the unconscious Pokémon.
"Swallowed a poisoned barb during a fight with a Berserker," the rhydon explained, his voice tight with worry. "It hit deeper than we thought."
"Bring them over here," the clefable instructed, guiding the team toward an empty bed. "We'll take it from here. You did well to get them here so quickly."
The scene left the group quiet for a moment, the weight of the Division's responsibilities settling over them. Finn cleared his throat and led them further inside. "Come on, I'll introduce you to the head matron. She's the one who keeps this place running."
They approached a central desk where a stern but kind looking gardevoir stood, her arms crossed as she observed the activity around her. Her gaze softened as Finn approached. "Finn, what brings you here?"
"Just showing the newcomers around," Finn said cheerfully. "Everyone, this is Matron Elaina. She's the head of the Medic Floor."
Elaina nodded to the group, her expression warm but businesslike. "Welcome to the Medic Floor. If you ever find yourself injured or in need of assistance, don't hesitate to come here. We'll take care of you."
Amber stepped forward, her voice hesitant but curious. "How do you manage all of this? It seems like an enormous responsibility."
Elaina smiled faintly. "It is, but we have an incredible team here. And, as Finn mentioned, King Asdeur's support has been invaluable. His generosity ensures we have the best supplies and equipment. Without him, many of the Pokémon you see recovering here might not have made it."
Axel glanced back toward the entrance, where the poisoned Pokémon was being treated. "It's humbling to see how much work goes into helping others."
Elaina's gaze softened further. "It is. But that's what the Division stands for, helping those in need, no matter the cost."
Finn clapped his paws together. "Alright, we've got more to see! Let's not keep Glendal waiting upstairs."
With that, the group bid farewell to Matron Elaina and made their way back to the carriage system, ready to explore the next part of the Division.
The next stop was a bustling area nestled on the third floor of the Division. Shortly after the group hopped off the carriage, another group of Pokémon shuffled past them to get across. The trio was bumped into multiple times.
"Be careful with who you run into," Finn warned lightly as he waded through the crowd. "Some Pokémon are poisonous by nature. You don't want to accidentally run into one."
With careful navigation, the group managed to squeak through and arrived at the front of a store. The sign above the entrance gleamed with golden letters, Glendal's Glorious Goods. The door chimed as Finn pushed it open, revealing a treasure trove of items. Shelves were stocked with colorful berries, shimmering orbs, and rare scrolls, while racks displayed numerous adventuring gear and tools in different shapes and sizes.
Behind the counter stood a sleek, impeccably groomed Weavile, his fur glossy and his crimson feathers tied back with a decorative band. A silken scarf hung loosely around his neck, and his sharp eyes sparkled with mischief as he surveyed his new customers. "Well, well! What do we have here?" he purred, flashing a dazzling grin. "Fresh faces, and such lively ones at that. Welcome to Glendal's Glorious Goods, the finest establishment this side of the Division. I'm Glendal, merchant extraordinaire, friend to adventurers, and... let's just say I know how to make the impossible possible."
Skarn gasped audibly as he darted toward a shelf of gleaming orbs. "This place is amazing!"
Glendal's grin widened as he leaned casually over the counter, his gaze sharp and curious as it settled on the Squirtle. "Ah, flattery will get you everywhere, my little friend. And might I say, you've got quite the adventurous aura about you. It's not every day I meet a young explorer who carries himself with such... character." His eyes flicked briefly toward Skarn's missing arm, his expression softening ever so slightly. "You've been through quite a story already, haven't you?"
Skarn blinked, caught off guard, but his smile never wavered. "Oh, uh, yeah. It's no big deal, though. Just a part of who I am!"
Glendal tilted his head, his grin turning more thoughtful. "A part of who you are, indeed. But it's not just the challenges we face, my dear squirtle, it's how we rise above them. And you seem like someone who knows how to turn obstacles into opportunities." He reached for a nearby shelf, plucking a small, polished orb that shimmered faintly. "For someone as resourceful as you, may I recommend a fine orb. A little chaotic, sure, but in the right hands, it can turn the tables on any foe. What do you think?"
Skarn's eyes widened as he examined the orb, but before he could touch it, Finn's voice cut in. "Careful with that. And while we're at it, here's some advice, never steal from this guy, no matter what. Glendal's reputation isn't just about his charm. He's got eyes everywhere, and trust me, you don't want to be on his bad side."
Glendal let out a light, musical laugh, one hand dramatically placed over his chest. "Oh, Finn, you wound me! Such dreadful warnings. I'm nothing but a humble merchant." He shot a playful wink at the group. "Though, it's true, I don't take kindly to those who think they can outsmart me. I'm far too clever, and far too fabulous, for that."
Amber, standing near the entrance with her usual guarded expression, watched the exchange with curiosity. Glendal's eyes flicked toward her, and his grin turned positively roguish. "And you, my dear? Surely a beauty like yourself isn't here just to stand in the shadows. Perhaps you'd be interested in something to match that exquisite coat of yours? A gem, perhaps, to enhance your radiance? Or maybe you're the mysterious type, if so, I do have a few rare, discreet items tucked away for special customers."
Amber's ears twitched, and she blinked, clearly taken aback by the sudden attention. "I'm just looking," she said coldly.
"Looking is the first step to finding, my dear," Glendal said smoothly. "Take your time. My shop is a feast for the senses."
Axel, who had been quietly surveying the shelves, finally spoke up. "Do you have anything useful for combat?"
"Ah, a Pokémon of action. I like that," Glendal said, his tone approving. "Of course, I do have. Everything from devastating to subtle methods for turning the tide of battle. Whatever your needs, I guarantee you'll find something to your liking."
Axel nodded, his eyes back to scanning. Meanwhile, Skarn was darting between shelves, marveling at everything. "Axel, can we buy something? Please? This place is incredible!"
Axel sighed, glancing at Glendal. "I do have a little bit of money with me. Perhaps we could purchase a couple berries."
Glendal clasped his hands together, his smile radiant. "Ah, an excellent choice! I do have the finest Oran berries to keep your squishy friend here safe." He gestured at Skarn with a knowing smirk. "And because I'm such a generous soul, I might even be persuaded to throw in a small discount. You'll find no better deals anywhere else, I promise."
Finn gave Axel a knowing look. "Just make sure to ask for a discount if you're ever strapped for money. Glendal's reasonable as long as you're honest with him. But if you try to cut corners... well, let's just say you'll regret it."
Glendal chuckled, his eyes glinting. "So dramatic, Finn! But yes, honesty is appreciated. I respect the hustle, but only when it doesn't involve me losing out. Deal?"
"Deal," Axel replied with a small nod. "We'll take the berries for now."
"Brilliant!" Glendal exclaimed, already gathering the items with deft precision. As he packed the berries into a sleek, woven bag, he leaned toward Skarn and whispered conspiratorially, "If you ever need something truly rare or exotic, come to me first. I've been known to acquire... unconventional items for my most trusted customers."
Skarn nodded eagerly. "You've got it!"
Glendal handed over the supplies with a dramatic flourish and a bow. "Safe travels, my new friends! May fortune favor your journey. And remember, when you're ready to splurge or in dire need, Glendal's Glorious Goods will always be here for you."
As the group exited the shop, Skarn was bouncing with excitement while Axel silently tucked away the bought berries. Amber lingered for a moment, glancing back at the charming Weavile, who gave her a sly wink before returning to his counter.
With a few more steps, Finn gestured toward a polished counter directly across the corridor. "Before we head up, you should check out the bank. That's where you'll keep your valuables safe or store anything you don't want to lug around on missions. It's run by Solace's most trusted banker, Saphira. She doesn't miss a thing."
The group turned to see a Persian sitting elegantly behind the bank counter, her fur practically glowing under the sunlight streaming through the open window. Saphira exuded an aura of professionalism, her calculating gaze already sizing them up even from a distance.
"Don't worry," Finn continued, lowering his voice. "She's fair, but don't try to haggle with her. She's not Glendal, and she doesn't deal in charm."
Axel nodded, already taking note of the bank for future use. "Good to know."
As the group exited, Skarn immediately brightened at the sight of a platform nearby, suspended by cables that stretched up to the next floor. Before he could rush toward it, a stocky Raichu popped out from behind the mechanism, tools clinking in a belt slung around his waist. His fur was darkened from grease, and he adjusted a pair of goggles on his forehead before waving them down.
"Hold up there, buddy," the Raichu said, his voice warm but firm. "Name's Ray'al, but everyone just calls me Ray. I'm the Division's mechanic, and I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the rail's jammed. Too much wear and tear, it's going to take me a while to get it running again."
Skarn's expression dropped like a stone. "You mean we have to take the stairs?"
Ray chuckled, wiping his paws on a cloth tucked into his belt. "'Fraid so. Unless you want to wait around for a few hours, the stairs are your best bet."
Finn stepped forward, clapping Ray on the shoulder. "Good to see you, Ray. Still keeping everything in one piece, huh?"
"More or less," Ray replied, grinning as he adjusted the cables. "You know how it is. Machines are only as reliable as their last maintenance day. That, and this system's older than most Pokémon in the Division. I'm working on a few upgrades, though, so maybe one day you won't have to hike up and down all the time."
"That day can't come soon enough," Skarn muttered, earning a laugh from Ray.
The Raichu glanced at Axel, Amber, and Skarn in turn, his eyes lingering on the Squirtle's missing arm for a moment. "You lot new recruits? Finn here finally dragged some fresh faces into the fold, huh?"
"Something like that," Axel replied simply.
"Well, good luck to you," Ray said, giving them a toothy grin. "This place can be rough, but if you ever need a hand, especially with gadgets or gear, you know where to find me." He gave the pulley system a sharp tug, frowning when it didn't budge. "Now go on, before I get roped into babysitting duty."
"Thanks, Ray," Finn said, steering the group toward the stairs.
Skarn groaned the moment the staircase came into view. "I love stairs!"
Amber smirked, her first sign of amusement all day. "It's one floor, Skarn. You'll live."
"Will I, though?"
Skarn let out an exaggerated sigh but started climbing, muttering under his breath about the injustices of life as the rest of the group followed.
Despite the grumbling, the group made their way up to the dining hall. The moment they stepped inside, they were greeted by the warm, inviting scent of freshly prepared meals. The hall was a spacious area with long wooden tables set beneath large windows that bathed the room in sunlight. Pokémon of all shapes and sizes were scattered across the room, chatting and laughing as they ate.
The sound of Skarn's stomach growling broke through the background chatter, prompting Finn to chuckle. "Guess we'd better grab something before your squirtle friend keels over."
The group approached the serving counter, where a cheerful kangaskhan handed out plates of food. The menu boasted a variety of hearty dishes, from berry salads to steamed veggies and roasted nuts.
Once their plates were full, they found a spot near the windows, settling in as the sunlight warmed their fur. Skarn immediately began shoveling food into his mouth, earning an amused shake of the head from Axel.
"So, this is how things work here," Finn said, breaking a berry in half with practiced ease. "The Daybreak Division's dining hall is open to everyone, with provisions supplied by King Asdeur himself. It's one of the few places you can relax and eat without worrying about coins."
"That's generous," Axel noted, though his voice was laced with a hint of skepticism.
"It's not all charity," Finn replied, lowering his voice as he leaned in. "Keeping everyone fed means keeping everyone working. Hungry Pokémon don't make for effective rescue teams or settlement workers."
Skarn, oblivious to the conversation, was halfway through his plate when he groaned. "I know I complained about the stairs, but this food might actually be worth it. Why does everything taste better when you're starving?"
"Because you complain enough to work up an appetite," Amber quipped, earning a surprised look from the Squirtle.
"You're funny when you want to be," Skarn said with a grin before turning back to his plate.
The group continued their meal in relative peace, the sun now high in the sky. Despite the lively chatter around them, there was a quiet camaraderie at their table, a shared understanding that this was just the beginning of their journey together.
Once they finished, Finn wiped his mouth and leaned back. "Alright, once you're done digesting, we'll head out to explore the rest of the Division. Plenty more to see before the day's over."
Axel nodded, his expression calm but focused. "Lead the way when you're ready."
Amber remained silent, watching the activity in the hall with a thoughtful look, while Skarn stretched his arms over his head with a dramatic yawn. "If we have to climb any more stairs, I'm gonna need a nap first," he muttered.
Finn just smirked. "You'll get used to it. It's part of the job."
With that, the group readied themselves to tackle whatever lay ahead in the vast Daybreak Division.
The cresting sun subtly shone its way into the open windows of the Division, reminding its residents of the peaceful evening drawing near. Tired steps echoed through the hallway on the fifth floor as Finn led Axel, Skarn, and Amber deeper into the sprawling facility. The faint hum of activity from other rooms faded as they approached a large, arched doorway at the end of the corridor.
Finn pushed open the heavy double doors, revealing a vast training area bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. The room's floor was padded with thick straw mats, and wooden dummies lined the walls. A dozen Pokémon of varying species were spread across the room, some sparring in pairs, others practicing their moves alone. At the center of the dojo, a burly machamp and a towering tyranitar locked in fierce combat.
"That's Logan," Finn whispered, motioning toward the aachamp. "He trains all the explorer teams here, and he's also in charge of the Machamps who run the carriage system for the Division."
"Who's the tyranitar?" Amber asked, leaning forward with interest.
"Torvak," Axel said quietly, recognizing the familiar hulking figure from Leon's team. Axel's tail twitched as he observed the battle, his sharp eyes tracking the two powerful fighters exchanging blows.
The room fell silent as the clash between Logan and Torvak escalated. Torvak roared, swinging his massive tail toward Logan with bone-crushing force, but the Machamp deftly sidestepped, grabbing the tyranitar's arm in a fluid motion and slamming him onto the mats with incredible strength. Torvak growled, kicking up dust as he forced himself back to his feet. The intensity in their eyes was unmistakable, neither was willing to yield.
Finally, after a grueling exchange, Logan delivered a final blow that sent Torvak skidding across the floor. Torvak stayed down for a moment, breathing heavily, before letting out a low chuckle. He rose to his feet, extending a clawed hand toward Logan.
"Torvak bested," Torvak said, his voice gruff but tinged with respect. "Logan, tough. Battle again soon."
Logan smirked, shaking Torvak's hand with two of his own. "Anytime you're ready, big guy. Just don't expect me to go easy on you."
The crowd of onlookers erupted in cheers, though the camaraderie between the two warriors stole the spotlight. Logan glanced around the room, his sharp eyes scanning the gathered Pokémon until they landed on Axel. He tilted his head, his expression curious.
"You there," Logan called out, his deep voice booming across the room. Axel stiffened, his ears flicking instinctively. "You've got a fighter's spirit in you. I can feel it."
Axel blinked, his shoulders tensing. "Me?"
"Yes, you," Logan said, striding closer with an easy confidence. "It's not just strength I sense, but something deeper. Let me see what you're made of."
For a moment, hesitation flickered in Axel's gaze. He glanced at Amber, who looked at him with concern, and then at Skarn, who was practically buzzing with excitement. But something stirred within him, a yearning to understand the strength he was missing, the strength his father must have had, and the strength he knew he would need for the journey ahead. His tail flicked sharply as he stepped forward.
"I'll do it," Axel said, his voice steady. "Show me what I need to learn."
Amber's ears twitched, her worried gaze locked onto Axel. "Are you sure?" she asked softly, her voice laced with hesitation.
Axel nodded, determination hardening his expression. "I need this."
Logan grinned, clapping his hands together. "That's what I like to hear! Don't hold back, kid. I won't."
The gathered crowd shifted to form a loose circle around the pair as Logan stepped back into the center of the dojo. Axel took a deep breath, squaring his stance and locking eyes with the towering machamp. The room seemed to shrink around him as Logan cracked his knuckles, rolling his shoulders with ease.
The sparring match began in an instant. Axel darted forward, electricity crackling along his fur as he dashed at full speed, aiming at Logan's chest. Logan deflected the strike with one hand, his movements fluid yet impossibly strong. Axel tried to follow up with an electrified charge, aiming to close the gap, but Logan sidestepped, grabbing Axel mid-charge and tossing him across the mat.
Axel hit the ground hard but scrambled back to his feet, shaking off the impact. He refused to back down, his determination blazing in his eyes. Logan's grin widened.
"Not bad, but you'll need more than speed to take me down," Logan said, lunging forward with blinding speed for a Pokémon of his size. Axel barely had time to react before Logan's fist connected with his side, sending him skidding backward.
Amber's breath hitched as Axel staggered, but he refused to stay down. Summoning his energy, he charged up an electric beam and fired it toward Logan, who crossed his arms to absorb the blow. The machamp slid back slightly but remained unfazed.
"Good power, but not enough control," Logan said, rushing forward again. This time, Axel tried to counter with his hardened blade, but Logan caught the attack mid-swing, using the momentum to hurl Axel into the far wall of the dojo with a resounding crash.
"Axel!" Amber cried, rushing to his side as dust settled around him. Axel groaned, shaking his head as he tried to push himself up, only to feel Amber's gentle paw on his shoulder.
"Stay still," she said, her voice firm but filled with concern. Her eyes met his, and for a moment, the world seemed to blur around them. "You've done enough." She conjured a small spark, sealing the wounds on Axel's body.
Axel grunted from the sudden heat, yet the steady warmth slowly eased away the pain.
"Thank you," he said quietly, his eyes half closed.
Logan approached, his expression no longer one of a grinning competitor but of a seasoned mentor. "You've got guts, kid. And a lot of potential."
He crossed his arms, glancing at Finn as Amber helped Axel back to his feet. The faint smile on his face softened into something more thoughtful. "Hey, Finn," Logan called out, tilting his head. "Are these three the new recruits for the Division?"
Finn chuckled, shaking his head. "Not quite, Logan."
Logan exhaled, his four arms resting on his hips. "Hmph. Shame, really. If they were Division recruits, I could've trained them properly."
He turned to Axel, kneeling down to meet eye to eye with him. "You're still rough around the edges, kid. A fighter is one with resolution and you've got plenty of that. I'll help you hone that strength if you wish to join the fray."
Axel nodded weakly, his pride bruised but his determination burning brighter than ever. Amber stayed by his side, her warmth both comforting and grounding. Skarn, wide-eyed, was already babbling about how amazing Axel's moves were despite the loss.
"I'll take you up on that," Axel said, determination flickering in his tired voice.
Logan grinned. "I'll hold you to it, kid. The moment you're ready, you know where to find me."
Shirone's Lament: Hoi o7! Glad you made it to the end. It's been a while eh, no, the story is not dead mind you. I haven't had a chance to thank Wyldclaw for commenting on the fic so here I am offering my gratitude. The story will pick up the pace after this, hopefully you haven't got bored of the scene descriptions yet cuz ho boi am I bad at them XD. Well enough rambling, hope you have a great day and thanks for reading.