Pokemon: The Fall of Hoenn (IC, OPEN)

[The Templar High Council]

Let's Battle!

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OOC

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As our story begins, the Resistance at Dewford seems to be in a bit of a pickle. After a battle lost to Team Aqua in Slateport, Steven Stone and his companions have regrouped in the Dewford Gym to devise a new plan. Hoenn's elites and leaders invited a few Rangers and trainers to join the discussion, as they are the ones fighting on the front lines.

"Brawly, that's crazy!" Steven Stone proclaimed. "We can't just send everyone we have up to Slateport again, we'd be destroyed!"

"And I'm saying we won't!" Brawly replied. "Look, if we can just get around to Cycling Road, I'm sure we can get Wattson to—"

"That's a pretty big if there, lad." Drake replied. The dragon master of Hoenn sat to the side, with his friend Phoebe nearby.

"It's not that crazy," Flannery interjected. "I see how it could work, but we'd need to be crazy lucky."

"Well, luck hasn't been on our side so far." Steven said. He sighed, tired with all the responsibility that came with leading this Resistance. But there was no shrugging this off, it had to be done. "Let's adjourn this meeting, come back later with cooled heads." The other leaders agreed, and spread out around Brawly's warehouse of a gym. With all the walls removed and lights turned on, it was a great place to house many people. Everyone was spread out on the floor, with small groups of trainers with similar interests grouping together.

One of these groups was a pair of Pokemon Rangers, Reece and Alice. Arriving from Mossdeep a couple of weeks ago, they've done their best to be useful to the Resistance. Reece now lay half-inside the tent he lived in, with a lollipop in his mouth and a look of thought on his brow.

"Alice... what did you think of Brawly's idea?" He asked his partner. "I mean, in theory, it could probably work. But I don't know how many trainers would go along with it." Lux was inside the tent, and came out to jump on Reece's stomach. He chuckled and rubbed her head. It was all very cute, at least until Lux will eventually shock Reece. But that will come later...

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Meanwhile, in Slateport City, dozens of Team Aqua and Rocket members were gathering in Slateport Harbor under the orders of Archie, Team Aqua's leader. After the Resistance's failed attack about a week ago, Aqua has been on their toes. Giovanni felt that Slateport was one of the biggest targets for the Resistance, based on its proximity to Dewford, and ordered a contingency of Rocket members, under the command of Agent Domino, to relocate to Dewford and assist in defending it.

At this time, the Aqua and Rocket members started arriving at the harbor. No one really knew what Archie had planned, but many were hoping to finally have some fun.

[The Selkie]

Let's Battle!

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(Image)

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OOC

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[...]

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Meanwhile, in Slateport City, dozens of Team Aqua and Rocket members were gathering in Slateport Harbor under the orders of Archie, Team Aqua's leader. After the Resistance's failed attack about a week ago, Aqua has been on their toes. Giovanni felt that Slateport was one of the biggest targets for the Resistance, based on its proximity to Dewford, and ordered a contingency of Rocket members, under the command of Agent Domino, to relocate to Dewford and assist in defending it.

At this time, the Aqua and Rocket members started arriving at the harbor. No one really knew what Archie had planned, but many were hoping to finally have some fun.

Domino was a blonde, blue eyed Rocket Elite Officer, one of the Right Hands of Giovanni himself.
She was used to standarts. She was used to a clear chain of command. She was used to discipline and order. She was used to quick reaction times.
One week wasn't quick by any stretch of the word. Even when taking into account the fact, that this was Aqua-territory and she only here for the not unlikely case, that those people failed again, it would be necessary to send assistance to the strategic locations of Hoenn held by the Coalition much, much faster then they currently did.
If the Resistance had succeeded one week ago, if Slateport had fallen, the rebels would now be on their merry way along Route 110 to Mauville City, if not already there and combatting the Aqua Forces there.
And worst of all: For all Domino knew, all of this would have been preventable if those damn pirate-movie-rejects would have been more careful, more alert. That was her opinion, but she was willing to change it, once she knew, what happened.
Although she was the local commander of Team Rocket's forces, she was in Aqua Territory and had to submit to their Command and Control by Giovanni's orders, even if she didn't like it. That meant, that teir leader Archie was in charge of her, if only on loan.
She supressed a deep sigh as she disembarked her ship, she didn't frown. She had Havoc out and by her side, the Houndour of 0.6 metres height trotting by her side, nose in the air. He reeked something he liked, as Domino noted with a small glance, maybe cheese, maybe simply the new smells all around them - they were more or less new to Hoenn, didn't visit Slateport, since Domino had been occupied with setting up the Reserve HQ at Rustboro shortly following its capture.
Her forces were limited, she didn't think, that Aqua was capable of even definding a paper bag, let alone a city, and the Resistance was most likely targetting the harbour as the first objective. It was a normal day for her.
As she walked down the wharf they were docked at, Havoc by her side, she made a plan. She had already submitted this one in the form of a memorandum to Giovanni, if he read it or not was another question, but her current main priority was something she wasn't really good at: Defense.
Her plan, as she submitted it to Giovanni, was, albeit shortened, as followed:

1st: Listen to what Archie has to say and to his orders.
2nd: Secure Slateport with the own troops, get them to work. If she could get Aqua to work as well, it would be brilliant. Main focus was defense at the moment.
3rd: Search the Resistance and all of their supporters and wipe them out. Catching a cell every once in a while would proof to be counter-productive, much like her own side currently stepped up security in Slateport, this would have the same effect on the enemy.
4th: Secure hearts and minds of the population. If they were capable of getting the population to accept them as new rulers, even if only in Slateport and other major cities, the Resistance would have a much harder time to recapture these cities by force. Additionally, their was the possibility of an influx of local recruits, who knew the terrain.
5th: Build up a united force, a fighting force consisting of members of all Teams, in order to strengthen the ties between the forces present at the moment.
6th: Catch lots and lots of the local Pokémon, Arceus alone knew, that this was needed in order to have a strong position to fall back on - or the necessary reserves to mount an effective attack.
7th: Be home for dinner. And get milk.

"Yep...", Domino mumbled to herself as she arrived at the wharf's end, which made Havoc look up. It wouldn't be an easy task, not by a long shot. She would have to be passive for quite some time, since the enemy had the initiative. Once she and her forces could be seen as ready, she would take action and mount an attack (albeit she still had no clue where to attack - that was to be worked out over the next few days). "...a normal day."
Let's see, what it has in store for us!, the blonde woman thought as she stepped onto Aqua territory.

[Finland SSR]

Lucien Franconite, Granite Cave

My face changed to a faint smirk as I watched Eviola knock down yet another Aron effortlessly. Even though her attacks would not be as effective against a Steel/Rock typing, it surely worked well while we were training here. For the last few days or so, we have been fighting wild Pokemon here for training, only briefly stopping for sleep at night or for a quick rest before taking on dozens again. Although the opposition here was a bit weaker than in the areas around Fallarbor, it was still good enough to work well enough.

And what's even better, not only there were no nagging parents nearby telling him to lay off just a little more and not push himself too hard, but, since this city is the meeting ground for Hoenn resistance fighters, he could participate in battles against evil team trainers, which provided a good boost. Not to mention that wild Pokemon don't give him money, and he needs a semi-stable source of income to... survive.

Eviola landed on the rubble-filled ground of the Granite Cave gracefully, letting out a faint victory cry. I counted this as the 45th beaten opponent for today. There's still 15 more to complete the bare minimum training requirement for a day, and 55 for the standard one, so I continued to move deeper. I dudn't even bother to return Eviola back to it's Pokeball - chances are she won't gave much rest. After taking a ladder drop to a lower level, I looked around in the heavy darknessthat surrounded us. Nothing.

Both of us - me and Eviola - started walking forward really slowly, with the Pokemon behind me. It didn't take long for us to stumble across a heap ofiron. That's no natural iron, though - it's an Aron, burrowed underground. I stepped on the sticked out shell, and the ironclad Pokemon jumped up from the ground.

"Eviola, take it down!" I shouted a simple command, and she responded with a Dragon Pulse - a pulse-like wave of violet energy - fired towards the opposing Aron. It knocked it right to a wall, falling down on the ground. However, much to my surprise, it stood up without that much injury and headbutted the Altaria. This was genuinely new. It's the first time here that a Pokemon survived a Dragon Pulse, no, shrugged it off! It's a strong one indeed.

"Eviola, change of plan! Don't try to faint it, just weaken it!" I shouted out. To become the greatest Pokemon trainer, you need more than one Pokemon. And a bulky steel type would likely work really well with my fast and strong, though a bit frail Eviola. It's time to catch my second partner. Eviola decided to use Aerial Ace - she slashed the Aron with her wings. It slammed it down on the ground. The opponent retaliated with Metal Claw - a slash with sharp metallic claws. There's no doubt - this time it's a real battle.

Eviola continued it's offensive with an another Dragon Pulse, and now the Aron started going weak. To better endure the next hit, it started growing temporary iron armor on it's body - Iron Defense, but there won't be a next hit. I didn't wait, took out one of the Rule Balls attached to my belt and threw it right at the Aron. The Pokemon turned into red energy and went inside the ball, and no the climactic moment begins...

One second...

Two...

Three...

ZAP!

"I... what? I did it again?" I spoke, as if not believing this was true. I caught my second Pokemon... This meant more training, more battling and even less free time, I guess...

[New Jordslag]

Alice Royal.

Alice was lying on her stomach, stretched out, petting her small friend and companion Skitty. See, the thing about Rangers is that they are not the 'owners' of their Pokemon Partner, but rather their friend. Her eyes, half closed, glanced at Reece upon his statement. "I do suppose that it could work. But they're highly cautious after that last attack. Even if successful, and operation to retake Slateport would exhaust our resources. You should know that, Cheese." She said, using her insulting nickname for Reece. "It's better in the long run if we let them make the first move."

Suddenly, there was a growling noise throughout the Tent. Alice blushed profusely. "Er..." It had clearly come from her. She really did need to eat more. Turning away from Reece, she took out a Sandwich from her bag and wolfed it down. "Sorry 'bout that." She said in her light Eastern Hoennese accent. "I might get a biiiit hungry sometimes." She grinned, sheepishly. The Tent settled into silence.

But, of course, Alice hated silence. "Hey, hey, Cheese." She said in a joking tone. She had done this joke before and would probably do it again. After all, Reece had been her Ranger Partner ever since she had been assigned to Mossdeep, her hometown. "Where's Macaroni?"

[Faal Lot Himdah]

That meeting, was interesting to say the least, Clara thought to herself as she walked through the warehouse of a gym. She was thinking about the purposed plan, basically the plan so far was for the entire Resistance to bumrush Slateport, the plan was absolute bonkers. It could end with two possibilities, success, or, the more likely outcome, absolute failure.

Sweetie was out walking beside her. Sweetie was Clara's favourite Pokémon, a Mawile, that Clara found sick and injured a long time ago, and nursed back to health. Together the two had been through so much. Clara had joined up with the Resistance just yesterday, and hadn't made any friends or knew anyone.

She saw a two Rangers in conversation. It would be rude to interrupt them, but Clara still wanted to make some friends. So she walked up to them, with a smile on her face and Sweetie beside her. They retreated into one tent, before Clara could make conversation. Clara sighed and made her way to her own tent.

When Clara reached her tent she noticed Sweetie wasn't with her. She panicked, if she lost Sweetie, she would be devastated. She looked around quickly, she saw Sweetie poking at someone's legs, back at the tents of the Rangers. She walked over, shaking her head.

"Sweetie, stop that right now, your embarrassing me." She said, as Sweetie just smiled.

[Equestria and Griffon]

Sootopolis City,near the gym

'Trouble!''
'Make that double!''
''To protect the world from-'
Giovanni was calling through a phone in Bill's Lighthouse.

[Aidannadia]

A store clerk frantically packed up his Rule Balls. He had been dealing with the Teams for far too long and now he was going to fight back. He had heard of a growing revolutionary force, and these Rule Balls would be invaluable for their cause.

It was then that a grunt walked in, looking at the shelves before walking up to the clerk. "You know, word on the street is that you aren't happy about our... protection," the grunt said, his elbow leaning over the counter as he checked the area. "It'd be a shame to be left astray. The Rockets rather like your business and want to make sure that you'll continue to pay at the end of the month."

The Pokemart clerk gulped, his knees trembling nervously. "O-of course, sir. I am v-very grateful for all that Team Rocket does to protect this city."

The grunt chuckled before casually wiping everything off the counter. "You'll do well to remember that," he added before strolling out.
This grunt's name was Ignacio Azarola, and he wasn't believing one bit of what that Pokemart clerk had said. It was apparent that there were Rule Balls missing from the shelves; there was a duffel bag behind the counter; the man couldn't even look him straight in the eye. Ignacio walked down the road, and made sure that he was out of sight of the store before circling around the back. There, he waited with little Muneca for nightfall.

The clerk left, just as expected, once dusk began to set in. "Muneca, use Night Shade." He ordered. The Shuppet's eye glowed bright pink and multiple crimson disks shoot from her body, knocking the man to the ground.

Ignacio strolled over to the man and grabbed his duffel bag. "I look forward to your continued partnership with the Rocket Gang." The man could only groan in response as the grunt left him there alone.

One Week Later
"Hey, I didn't know they let kids dress in the uniforms these days!" One grunt said to a group of them as Ignacio walked past.

"Yeah, I heard they picked him up off the street, living with a Sandshrew as a brother," the group howled with laughter. The 19 year-old grunt clenched his fists to keep from attacking the men.

"Oh yeah, and see how he let's his Shuppet float around by his shoulder all the time?" The group nodded. "It's because that's his-" The older grunt wasn't able to finish his sentence before Nacho clocked him across the face, knocking him to the ground and angering the rest of his... companions.

"Hey, who do you think you are?"

"Why I oughtta..."

The grunt were closing in on him and as he was pinned against a wall, a Sandslash forced itself from its rule ball, forced the grunts to back up.

They all grumbled and walked off, but would not forget this. "Monty, thanks but that wasn't necessary."

"Sand- sandslash" The pokemon nodded and returned to its ball.

It was then that the ship arrived at Slateport and Grunt Azarola went down the staircase into the port. He wasn't really sure why he was here in Slateport, but even he had to admit that the city had a certain beauty to it. All he was worried about was whether he was going to get paid.

[The Templar High Council]

But, of course, Alice hated silence. "Hey, hey, Cheese." She said in a joking tone. She had done this joke before and would probably do it again. After all, Reece had been her Ranger Partner ever since she had been assigned to Mossdeep, her hometown. "Where's Macaroni?"

"Doesn't mean it wouldn't work." Reece replied, still petting Lux's head. In response to Alice's dumb question, Reece rolled over on his stomach and grinned. "I don't know, Queenie. Where is Mac? Must not be in your stomach, from all that rumbling!" He reached out to grab her, and Lux mewed in protest to losing her head-scratching.

When Clara reached her tent she noticed Sweetie wasn't with her. She panicked, if she lost Sweetie, she would be devastated. She looked around quickly, she saw Sweetie poking at someone's legs, back at the tents of the Rangers. She walked over, shaking her head.

"Sweetie, stop that right now, you're embarrassing me." She said, as Sweetie just smiled.

Suddenly, Reece felt something against his leg. Crawling out of the tent, he came face-to-face with a Mawile. "Well hi there," He said, patting the little creature's head. What looked to be the Mawile's owner came over, and she was nervous about the Mawile causing trouble.

"Don't worry about it. I'm a Ranger. Befriending Pokemon is what I do." He smiled and crawled out fully, Lux following him. "The name's Reece. Reece Whitaker. And this is Lux."

"Lux-io!" Lux cried, greeting the trainer and the Mawile.

[Camicon]

Marilee Coaltas
Dewford

For what felt like the thousandth time Marilee looked out over Dewford Bay, scanning the horizon for any sign of an approaching Pokemon. I'm sure he's fine. His Floatzel is strong, they'll make shore in Hoenn somewhere. Even if it isn't here. Again, she berated herself for 'letting' Ronald fall overboard, as if she could have done anything to stop a freak wave from sweeping over the deck while he struggled to anchor himself to the ship's railing. Rangers were supposed to stick together, and though Marilee knew she hadn't actually abandoned him, she still felt like she had. Frustrated that nothing was happening, Marilee kicked at a support post of the pier, sending a few slivers of wood skittering across the blue-green waters of the harbour. Her Umbreon, Nix, startled awake at the sound; the Pokemon's black muzzle twitched, sniffing at the salty air, becoming still when she had determined nothing was amiss.

"Come on, Nix," Marilee said to her companion. "Let's go find whoever's running this place, find something useful to do." The bitterness in her voice was clear as day, and prompted Nix to nuzzle her head into Marilee's side. The Ranger patted her shoulders in appreciation, then fished a poffin out of her satchel which Nix tore into with gusto.

Marilee left the pier and began walking through Dewford, exactly where she did not know. Scattered about the streets were small groups of people, heads huddled together in conversation, and Pokemon milling about conspicuously by their sides. It was rare to see so many Pokemon out of their balls, particularly within a municipal zone, but the so called "Pokejammer" seemed to have people spooked. Marilee didn't blame them one bit, as she didn't trust that the invading Rule Coalition was incapable of locking out their self-named "Rule Balls" as they had Poke Balls. Seeing so many Pokemon about made her feel disquiet, as it was a sure sign that things were seriously amiss, as if the constant stream of news regarding the hostile takeover of nearly every major population centre in Hoenn wasn't enough to clue a person in.

Eventually, Marilee found herself near the Dewford Gym. The steady stream of people entering and leaving it suggested to her that this was the place from which Dewford's resistance forces were being organized. If she was to find something to do, then this would certainly be the place for it. The interior of the gym was much like the streets surrounding it: small groups of people huddled together, while Pokemon milled about nearby. Marilee saw a number of Hoenn Rangers, identified as such by the slight variation in their uniform. Scanning the crowd with a keen eye, she didn't see any high-collared jackets or berets which Kalos Rangers were so fond of, though it could be that they were simply out of sight at the moment. Marilee wandered farther into the gym, keeping to the edges, looking around for whomever appeared to be in charge. Nix followed close on her heels, her head also scanning the crowd, though she was looking for any Pokemon that might be getting out of hand and pose a danger to Marilee.

[The Selkie]

A store clerk frantically packed up his Rule Balls. He had been dealing with the Teams for far too long and now he was going to fight back. He had heard of a growing revolutionary force, and these Rule Balls would be invaluable for their cause.

It was then that a grunt walked in, looking at the shelves before walking up to the clerk. "You know, word on the street is that you aren't happy about our... protection," the grunt said, his elbow leaning over the counter as he checked the area. "It'd be a shame to be left astray. The Rockets rather like your business and want to make sure that you'll continue to pay at the end of the month."

The Pokemart clerk gulped, his knees trembling nervously. "O-of course, sir. I am v-very grateful for all that Team Rocket does to protect this city."

The grunt chuckled before casually wiping everything off the counter. "You'll do well to remember that," he added before strolling out.
This grunt's name was Ignacio Azarola, and he wasn't believing one bit of what that Pokemart clerk had said. It was apparent that there were Rule Balls missing from the shelves; there was a duffel bag behind the counter; the man couldn't even look him straight in the eye. Ignacio walked down the road, and made sure that he was out of sight of the store before circling around the back. There, he waited with little Muneca for nightfall.

The clerk left, just as expected, once dusk began to set in. "Muneca, use Night Shade." He ordered. The Shuppet's eye glowed bright pink and multiple crimson disks shoot from her body, knocking the man to the ground.

Ignacio strolled over to the man and grabbed his duffel bag. "I look forward to your continued partnership with the Rocket Gang." The man could only groan in response as the grunt left him there alone.

One Week Later
"Hey, I didn't know they let kids dress in the uniforms these days!" One grunt said to a group of them as Ignacio walked past.

"Yeah, I heard they picked him up off the street, living with a Sandshrew as a brother," the group howled with laughter. The 19 year-old grunt clenched his fists to keep from attacking the men.

"Oh yeah, and see how he let's his Shuppet float around by his shoulder all the time?" The group nodded. "It's because that's his-" The older grunt wasn't able to finish his sentence before Nacho clocked him across the face, knocking him to the ground and angering the rest of his... companions.

"Hey, who do you think you are?"

"Why I oughtta..."

The grunt were closing in on him and as he was pinned against a wall, a Sandslash forced itself from its rule ball, forced the grunts to back up.

They all grumbled and walked off, but would not forget this. "Monty, thanks but that wasn't necessary."

"Sand- sandslash" The pokemon nodded and returned to its ball.

It was then that the ship arrived at Slateport and Grunt Azarola went down the staircase into the port. He wasn't really sure why he was here in Slateport, but even he had to admit that the city had a certain beauty to it. All he was worried about was whether he was going to get paid.

Domino heard a commotion behind her, back on the ship, and turned.
So much for us being more disciplined then those Aqua-Idiots..., she thought with a deep frown. Most of her subordinates were already of the ship, but a small group was still on deck, grumbling about some thing or the other, their uniforms in disarray - and then there was a young man strolling down the staircase. His uniform was in disarray as well.
For a short moment, Domino thought about going over and berating the young man about the state of his appearance, but then again, she had more important things to do - then she recognized the young man: Azarola.
She knew many of the files about her troops and that one was her least favourite: He was unnecessarily brutal to Team Rocket's opposition, only cared about his payment and was classified as disloyal to a certain degree by the psychologists, up to the point of attacking fellow Team Members.
Her meeting with whoever was in charge in Slateport could wait, this was more important. She turned and walked over to the young man, before she barked: "Azarola!" Havoc by her side wasn't looking that pleased either, glaring at the Shuppet. "Get your uniform in order, this is Team Rocket, not a disco!" A few men on the wharf laughed. "And then you can start to tell me, why you started an unauthorized close combat practice with your fellow Team Members!"
If he was keen on acting like he was some sort of undisciplined merc, then she would show him, that she wouldn't tolerate this behaviour under her command.

[New Jordslag]

"Doesn't mean it wouldn't work." Reece replied, still petting Lux's head. In response to Alice's dumb question, Reece rolled over on his stomach and grinned. "I don't know, Queenie. Where is Mac? Must not be in your stomach, from all that rumbling!" He reached out to grab her, and Lux mewed in protest to losing her head-scratching.

Suddenly, Reece felt something against his leg. Crawling out of the tent, he came face-to-face with a Mawile. "Well hi there," He said, patting the little creature's head. What looked to be the Mawile's owner came over, and she was nervous about the Mawile causing trouble.

"Don't worry about it. I'm a Ranger. Befriending Pokemon is what I do." He smiled and crawled out fully, Lux following him. "The name's Reece. Reece Whitaker. And this is Lux."

"Lux-io!" Lux cried, greeting the trainer and the Mawile.

"Yeah, you're right about that, Cheese." Alice said with a laugh. "The stress of the collapse of the Union has not been easy on my appetite." But thoughts of the Ranger Union and it's collapse were sad, now that it was gone, and she stopped smiling and looked at the ground. It was then that Reece grabbed her. Playfully, she tackled him to the ground, without pinning him to it, but his grip on her arm brought her with him.

Suddenly, both she and Reece heard a noise, and she turned her head to the source of the sound. It was a Mawile. Reece patted it on the head until it's owner came over, at which point he introduced himself. Alice followed suit. "I'm Alice Royal, lady. I'm his Ranger Partner. How're you doing?" At that moment, Skitty leaped on top of her head and purred to introduce itself.

[Faal Lot Himdah]

The Rangers popped out of their tent, one started patting Sweetie on the head, the other was sitting there. Oh god, oh god, what have you gotten me into Sweetie, Clara thought to herself as she approached the Ranger duo. Clara took a deep breath and approached the Ranger duo.

"Nice to meet you two, and your Pokémon. My name is Clara Wilson and I'm a trainer. Mind if I sit here?" She said as she sat down, Sweetie was busy talking with Lux.

"That is Sweetie. God, bless her, she always has the best intentions, even if that means embarrassing me." Clara said with a shake of the head and a smile on her face. "I just can't help but think of the plan."

[Qart chadast]

Asina Sinnel
Dewford Gym

Asina tried to follow the plans people laid down, plans that where meant to drive the criminal teams out of Hoenn. Asina could not keep up though and she had nothing to add to it as she barely knew the situation. She started to think back how she ended up here and what all had happend as it seemed so long ago already.

It all started a week after she arrived at the Hoenn region, ready to meet new pokémon and to enjoy the nature. She wandered around together with Boxer, Crusher and Belly just having a good time. It was a normal day just like any other day, though it was not going to end as such. She had been on her way to Lavaridge Town to enjoy the famous hot springs. Upon arrival she already noticed something wasn't right. There where no pokémon except for a few who where accompanied by people dressed in red. Before she entered the town an older man walked up to her and told her to keep her pokémon out of the pokéball. He informed her of the pokéjammer, a device that kept pokémon locked inside their balls. While Boxer and Crusher didn't owned a ball, Belly did. For Belly it couldn't be missed in matter of fact as she could not sleep if she wasn't in a ball. Asina told it to the man, who then offered her some kind of strange ball. It was a ball made by these teams, the only kind of ball that would open when the pokéjammer remained active.
Asina took the ball, she just hoped that the old man was just speaking riddles or something as she couldn't really believe it.
Upon entering the town though she noticed it was real, people where begging the men in red to get those strange balls and they cried out about the active pokéjammer. Asina felt uncomfortable walking through the town becouse she seemed to be the only one with her pokémon out and as people started to watch her she decided to leave.

Just outside Lavaridge Town she got stopped by these men in red. They asked her why her pokémon where still out and demanded them to be returned into a pokéball. Asina tried to explain that both Boxer and Crusher didn't had any ball while she returned Belly with this new rule ball. Upon noticing the Rule Ball the men in red started to get somewhat agressive, demanding to know where Asina got it. Asina wouldn't tell as she feared that these men would do harm to the old man. She instead started to back away from the town, hoping to run away when she got a chance.
This chance never came as the men in red called out their pokémon and now suddenly demanded Crusher instead and that if Asina would refuse they would harm her.
Asina never got the chance to run away, to say anything or even to think as Boxer quickly jumped from her hands and charged in for the attack. Boxer was just a little Cubone, but he was extremely protective towards Asina and he would not let anything happen to her. It was often a problem as the pokémon hated strangers, but in this case one could say it was a gift.
Boxer was quickly joined by Crusher, Asina's Rhydon. Crusher had previously been the pokémon of Asina's father, the two now where great friends and Crusher always made sure she was safe, just like this time.
The two pokémon stood no chance however... On the opposite side there was a Charmeleon, two Growlithe, a Slugma, three Houndour, a Houndoom and a Conkeldurr. Asina couldn't do anything but watch how both Boxer and Rhydon got crushed by these pokémon, she cried and yelled everybody to stop but it didn't seem to matter.
Then out of nowhere several pokémon appeared and started to attack these evil men and their pokémon. Asina knew this was her chance and she quickly picked up Boxer and wanted to run off, though she soon noticed that Crusher wasn't capable of keeping up. At most he could walk, but even that seemed to hurt him alot. Asina turned back towards the battle as there was no escape for her. Luckly the criminals got beaten back by these pokémon that came to her aid, and as she felt hope again she noticed some people running up, calling for their pokémon to attack. These people seemed to be residents, although she did noticed a ranger amongst them. Clearly these where the good guys, and that was all that mattered.

After the battle these people offered Rhydon some berries to ease the pain before they ran off. Asina followed them as she had no idea what to do or what was going on. It took a while before these people stopped, but eventually they did at some small house far way from the town. Once inside they told her that evil teams had taken almost all of Hoenn and that they where part of a group of people who weren't giving up without a fight. Upon hearing the entire story on what all happened Asina knew that she could not leave these people to their fate. She realised that if she left these people she would regret it for the rest of her life. She offered to join them and while they doubted her fighting skills, they told that they could use everyone.
Joined by her and her pokémon new friends, except for Boxer who still didn't trust them, they made their way through Hoenn to eventually end up at the Dewford Gym where Asina quickly noticed some famous people from the region, people that actually gave her more hope in this fight.

[Finland SSR]

Lucien Franconite, Granite Cave

After catching Aron (who I did not bother to give a nickname to), the day continued as usual, except now I had two party members to train. That wasn't too bad. Usually, considering how quickly Eviola disposes of wild Pokemon, I finish up her training session by noon, giving tons of free time to train those who are weaker. However, it was difficult. My Aron wasn't that higher in level compared to theenemies here, and they would chip away his health bit by bit with each battle.

"Aron, offensive stance!" Unlike many other trainers, I don't give my Pokemon specific commands of what to do, what attacks to pick. That way of battle really slows them down, and makes them dependent on the trainer's quick thinking and reaction speed. And since many Pokemon battles are too fast-paced for the brain, making your partners reliant on human commands can cost you a lot. Instead, I trusted on my Pokemon's ability to battle independently, and only gave them warnings, simple commands and tactics or just help on which way to strike is the best. Aron jumped up a bit from shock, then threw himself forward and headbutted the foe Zubat, which, for some reason, decded to land on the ground that time. However, the attack did not take the enemy down, and it proceeded to smack down the Aron with it's wings. Nornally, it would be an ineffective attack, but since my Pokemon was already tired down from the harsh training of the day, it was enough to make him faint.

"He lost..." I spoke to myself, and returned Aron back into it's ball. I could've ran away without throwing an another Pokemon to the field, but that was not the case with me here. It was the first time that a Pokemon of mine was defeated, and I would not simply leave beaten. "Eviola, show him how real warriors fight. Both to this Zubat and to outr companion." I merely thrusted my hand with Eviola's ball forward, and it opened with a flashing white light. Th Altaria let out a screeching cry, indicating that it is ready for battle.

"Eviola, no mercy this time." She understood what I meant. It all took a single Dragon Pulse - three seconds. But now, I think we've had enough training for today. Time to get some rest and get back to Dewford.

Dewford Gym

After giving my Pokemon a quick rest at the nearby Pokemon Center, I silently walked through most of the town, towards the main gathering point of the Resistance - Brawly's gym, a bit farther away from the shore. The streets were bustling as usual, although now also filled with trainers and Rangers alike from all of Hoenn and even beyond. We were still reorganizing after the attack on Slateport, and myself, I think this is the best time for the Rule Coalition to attack. We're not yet prepared for a defensive.

The glass doors of the Gym opened by themselves as I approached them. How convenient as always. The inside was dark, and filled with all kinds of people. I think I dropped my bag somewhere near the entrance. Yes, there it is! The handmade leather bag where I keep everything that I take on my journey. Potions, worthless Poke Balls which I still hold onto, just some items and food as well. I didn't take anything yet, just sat down next to it. It was a time for a quick rest, and then we'll have an afternoon training session. It was a bit puzzling to me how most of the people here were just standing and talking instead of training for battle, but hey, I don't judge them...

[The Rebel Alliances]

Hanna Fletcher-21 Yrs-Team Rocket-Rustboro City

The city would not seem to have actually changed too much. Rustboro, people still go to work. Students still go to school. With the most noticeable change being the lack of Pokemon Battles in the area. Some may even argue that is an improvement. Giving people time to actually focus on other deals, Pokemon Breeders are still around, Pokemon Centers and Pokemon Marts, of course for the latter two, most of their business comes from Team Rocket. Not many journeying trainers going around visiting Pokemon Centers. But the whole picture is simply that life under Team Rocket, really has not changed this city too much. Of course, not every city under the Rule Coalition is so lucky, it really boils down to who is calling the shots in that city in question. And here in Rustboro, where the Team Rocket local HQ is, that is usually me. Certainly I am not officially in charge, as that would be our esteemed leader Giovanni. However, as the local commander of Rocket forces in Rustboro, I end up calling most of the decisions. I walked down the sidewalk, which was not as crowded as I would think on a Monday. My pokemon were tucked away in my Rule Balls, and my uniform was one which reflected well on someone in my position of rank in the organization. Neatly pressed and ironed I made sure that I led by example, as chaos in Team Rocket's city is, bad for business. It was then that I received a call on my own radio, which alerted me to a incursion by a small rebel group inside of the old Gym. I immediately picked up my radio and attempted to confirm if Roxanne was with them.

"Can you confirm if Roxanne is among the insurgents?" I quizzed as I began to walk with a quickened pace in the direction of the Gym. The other side of the radio coming to life.

"Negative, just several former Gym Trainers, mam! Engaging now!" The man echoed on the other end.

I swiftly sent an answer back through the radio.

"Negative, just ensure they cannot escape. I will be there in three minutes to deal with this myself."

"Yes mam." Was the only answer I received or required. When I arrived at the Gym, I noticed how the place was rather well maintained, another side effect of my decision to keep it maintained as to not anger the city residents. I was greeted by several salutes from three Team Rocket members, two of which older than myself by several years. And one a couple years younger. The older Man spoke first, and it was obvious that he was the one on the radio.

"Admin Fletcher! There are three of them barricaded in the back, we had defeated two of them, that is before we called you mam. The third has a Graveler and is using it to keep us at bay. The group seemed to be trying to enter this place undetected, but were spotted by our newest recruit. I looked the recruit down, and saw that she wore a rather typical Rocket Grunt Uniform, her short purple hair was cut neatly and overall her appearance was satisfactory. And her performance so far seemed to match.

"Very well, I will handle the final insurgent from here." I then passed my gaze to the new recruit.

"Recruit, what is your name?" She seemed surprised. But straightened up and complied.

"I am Rocket Recruit Mandy Howards, mam!" I nodded in approval.

"Well, from now on you are a part of my personnel detail. Understood?" The surprise was evident. But she passed a grin.

"Sure mam." And with that I began to trail ahead as I confronted the three Gym Trainers, hiking types, nothing I have never faced before. Mandy followed close behind me as I stood about fifteen paces in front of the trainer. They were obviously searching for...something in this area. And if what they are looking for is in this Gym, or they simply ran here to hide I dont yet know. But, removing a Rule Ball from my belt, I spoke up to the tense trainer.

"I will be your only opponent. My name is Hanna Fletcher, Admin and Commander of Rocket forces in this city. If you defeat me, I will order all Rocket Forces to stand down, and allow you to walk out of this city unscathed. However, should I win. You will surrender yourselves to my authority and tell us all you know about what you are searching for, deal?" As he considered the offer, I added in a little incentive.

"I would rather keep things as...pleasant as possible."

After he eventually agreed, I had already decided my choice in Pokemon, it was hardly a fair choice. But it was logically the most sound, and while it may seem to prove little, being the best there is also means knowing the best way to win. And when a avenue opens up, take it.

So, as I unleashed a Rule Ball, with a blast of light, my Vaporeon was at the center of the now unfolding battle.

[Aidannadia]

Nacho cleared his throat and pressed the button on his Rule Ball, encapsulating Muneca within it. He patted down his outfit and tucked in his shirt, as well as straightened his hat before standing to attention and saluting Domino. He had been careful to dodge her gaze before now and was beginning to regret the punch he had thrown earlier. "Yes, mam. You know how it is on a boat. You spend so much time locked up together with lots of people. I think we were all a little... frustrated," he ended, chuckling nervously. "I can assure you it won't be happening again, mam."

[The Templar High Council]

The Rangers popped out of their tent, one started patting Sweetie on the head, the other was sitting there. Oh god, oh god, what have you gotten me into Sweetie, Clara thought to herself as she approached the Ranger duo. Clara took a deep breath and approached the Ranger duo.

"Nice to meet you two, and your Pokémon. My name is Clara Wilson and I'm a trainer. Mind if I sit here?" She said as she sat down, Sweetie was busy talking with Lux.

"That is Sweetie. God, bless her, she always has the best intentions, even if that means embarrassing me." Clara said with a shake of the head and a smile on her face. "I just can't help but think of the plan."

"Sweetie, huh?" Reece took out a lollipop and offered it to the Mawile before turning back to face Clara. "Nice to meet you too.

"You mean Brawly's plan? Yeah, it's a bit crazy. I'm not even sure he thought it through completely before proposing it to Steven." Lux crawled back onto Reece's lap, and he gently scratched her head as he was talking. "Everyone's a bit on edge; can you really blame them?"

[The Selkie]

Nacho cleared his throat and pressed the button on his Rule Ball, encapsulating Muneca within it. He patted down his outfit and tucked in his shirt, as well as straightened his hat before standing to attention and saluting Domino. He had been careful to dodge her gaze before now and was beginning to regret the punch he had thrown earlier. "Yes, mam. You know how it is on a boat. You spend so much time locked up together with lots of people. I think we were all a little... frustrated," he ended, chuckling nervously. "I can assure you it won't be happening again, mam."

Domino raised an eyebrow, looking the young man over.
There were things on her tongue, things which would gave even the sailors of this town quite a cute blush, but she swallowed it down with a hum, taking in the now more passable appearance of the young man. She didn't buy his words about him throwing punches because he was frustrated one bit. And even if it was true, it was still conduct unfit for Team Rocket and one of its members.
She decided to lay her judgement as superior officer upon him: "If that happens again, Azarola, all people involved will loose their pay for that week, understood?" She didn't wait for a reply before she turned around and called over her shoulder: "For the time being, you will be coming with me. And get that Shuppet out!"
She then walked back to the end of the wharf to wait for her Aqua-contact - she gave him or her a few minutes, before she herself simply took point in Slateport, because she could.

[Aidannadia]

The grunt gave a sigh of relief as Domino walked away. I don't need a paycut right now. Prices are high with the new takeover and taxes. He thought grumbily to himself.

Ignacio released his Shuppet and caught up with Domino, his left shoulder parallel to her right as he followed. Muneca flew around to inspect the Houndour by her side, floating around it and quietly making noises. The grunt called out, "Muneca,ven aqui." The Shuppet floating back around to Ignacio's shoulder. The language was something that he had picked up from the orphanage at a young age. Apparently, his parents had come from a far off land that the matron had also come from. The name escaped him, but the language was just something that had always come naturally to him.

[New Jordslag]

Alice Royal

"Brawly is a central part of Resistance Plans, however. Crazy or not, this is his town." Alice mused. "O' course, he clearly is crazy. We lost several trainers already to the last Slateport landing. I imagine another one won't go well either." Skitty leapt down off her head, stretched, then went over to Reece, seeing the head scratching his Luxio was receiving. "Upon hearing Reece's question, a brief, sad, smile crept it's way onto Alice's face in an instant, and vanished just as quickly.

"No, nobody can really blame us. The Trainers 'ave lost so many friends and family, and their dearest Pokemon have been locked up. And us Rangers..." Her voice trailed off, and she looked away from Reece and Clara. "Professor Hastings was like a father to us all. I truly hope that one day we'll find him again. If anybody can even hope to recreate the Union, it's him, since Erma... passed away." She said, grasping for the right words. "Hope. That's something we all need, isn't it?"

Eleanor Stone

Cameras were flashing, reporters chattering. Steven Stone had won the Championship. It was a close match, but he came out on top in the end. Never in Eleanor's life had she been prouder of her older brother. It's not like he wanted the attention, though. All he loved were Rocks...

Eleanor snapped out of her Daydream at the sound of a famiar voice. Steven. "-leanor, are you listening?" She heard him say. Flashing a sheepish grin, she shook her head. "No, sorry big bro. I wasn't." Steven let out a groan. Though his Sister may be far better than him at dealing with the media, sometimes she was a bit of a ditz. "Nevermind. It was nothing important, anyways." Eleanor looked around the room. Right. She was in the Dewford Gym. The Invasion and Steven's fall from power had happened, and now he struggled to hold together a United Opposition. How could she forget?

She gave her brother a big hug- he often swore she acted like a twelve year old- and then wandered away from him. Time to ch s t some people up, as she'd always been taught to do. For a bit, she found nobody who looked interesting. Then she found a serious-faced trainer going through a bag. Contrary to the relaxed mood of nearly everyone else in the Gym, he seemed to be rather determined about something. Standing in front of him, she looked down at his eyes. "Hello," She said, in a curious voice. "What's in that bag? You seem rather serious."

[The Selkie]

The grunt gave a sigh of relief as Domino walked away. I don't need a paycut right now. Prices are high with the new takeover and taxes. He thought grumbily to himself.

Ignacio released his Shuppet and caught up with Domino, his left shoulder parallel to her right as he followed. Muneca flew around to inspect the Houndour by her side, floating around it and quietly making noises. The grunt called out, "Muneca,ven aqui." The Shuppet floating back around to Ignacio's shoulder. The language was something that he had picked up from the orphanage at a young age. Apparently, his parents had come from a far off land that the matron had also come from. The name escaped him, but the language was just something that had always come naturally to him.

Havoc's gaze followed the Shuppet as he trotted by Domino's side - he had never seen a Pokémon like this, but it didn't look yummy, so having a bite was out of question. If it came to blows, he had an advantage anyway, but it would be a waste of precious ressources.
Luckily for it, the trainer, one of her Mistress's subordinates, called him back to his shoulders. Domino watched the exchange as well, noting the language - she had never heard it, but it sounded nice. She wanted to ask the young man about it, before she caught something out of the corner of her eye: A lone man, maybe in his twenties, was poking his head around the supermarket nearest to the harbour and her wharf.
He was trying not to be seen, with emphasis on trying. He was studying the arriving Rockets, she was sure about it.
Domino let out a sigh. This is going to get a funny bit..., she thought, before she commanded her most loyal and most literal lapdog: "Havoc, guy at the supermarket, looks around the corner. Catch."
The Houndour, true to the phrase he was named after, shot forward, towards the man, but not in an excited fashion - even sparing the most simple glance reveiled, that he wasn't going to lick the man all over. Domino was shortly after that.
If Azarola or any of the Grunts kept up wasn't her concern, she knew, that Havoc would handle the situation. "Hold position!", she called over he shoulder.
The man, instead, chose to yelp, to loose what he was carrying and to try to make a run for it.
It was obvious, that he wasn't among the fittest, but ven if he had been one of Brawly's men, he wouldn't have been capable to out-speed a Houndour, let alone Havoc. Someone yelled on the street as he apparently bumped into someone, which then changed into a startled cry as Havoc sped around the corner and did his favourite job.
Domino was well aware, that he wasn't really a Pokémon born to fight others of his kind, but that wasn't his mission. He was one of her two passive capabilities, among them being the catching ability.
In this case, catching of humans.
The man was on his back, on the ground, a small notepad, which Domino promptly collected, nearby, near the corner. Havoc stood over him, a fierce expression on his face and growling, the Fire Fang's fire already leaking out of the maw.
It was a sight even slightly terrifying to Domino, who slowed to a self-assured walk, while she knew, that the street was looking at her, around a dozen people, most of them harmless civilians and one clerk of the supermarket on break, now sitting on the ground, the person the man bumped into. At his feet was a broken Coffee mug, but that was another thing.
"So...", Domino began, flipping through the notebook. It looked a lot like a damage report changed into a report about the arrival of the Rocket Forces. "...care to explain, what you want to do with this?"
"I am a reporter!", the young man replied. "I work for a newspaper, making a story about the aftermaths of the attack on Slateport!"
"Aha." Domino scanned the pages and found an interesting note she promptly read aloud: "Rockets led by Elite Officer, with Houndour, hot, enforces discipline - possible threat." There was a pause, which Domino used to suppress a slight blush. "To whom?"
The reporter stuttered a bit, before Domino turned to the clerk. "I hate to interrupt your well-earned break, but could you please fetch me a rope? Thank you."
She heard a few grunts stepping up to her, not having followed her orders - Took them long enough..., she thought without turning around.

[Finland SSR]

She gave her brother a big hug- he often swore she acted like a twelve year old- and then wandered away from him. Time to ch s t some people up, as she'd always been taught to do. For a bit, she found nobody who looked interesting. Then she found a serious-faced trainer going through a bag. Contrary to the relaxed mood of nearly everyone else in the Gym, he seemed to be rather determined about something. Standing in front of him, she looked down at his eyes. "Hello," She said, in a curious voice. "What's in that bag? You seem rather serious."

Lucien Franconite, Dewford Gym

As I was picking up some Super Potions from my bag to add them to the resources at hand, basically refilling my healing items, someone went up and talked to me. Talked to me? What is this, the Pokemon Center? Anyway, I quickly lifted my head up and took a glance at the person. It was a girl, not that much to say. I mean, I don't talk to many people, I prefer my Pokemon, so I dmwasn't aware how this could go...

"Oh, this?" I spoke, referring to my bag. "Just a bunch of useless stuff - potions, Poke Balls and other crap. I like to keep it here, so m hands are free while battling." I remembered that she noted me beng much more serious than others - probably need to address that too. Interestingly enough, I saw myself as normal and others too wayward and cheerful to be good Traners, but I digress. "Well, I am someone who takes the whole training stuff seriously. I won't be here long - the afternoon training session is coming. Though, I suppose there is time for a chat."

[Aidannadia]

Both Muneca and Ignacio turned their heads to watch the Houndour chase after some man in the market, Domino following behind. "No, wait up, I'll help..." Nacho muttered to himself as they both were out of earshot. He had to give her credit though; he hadn't even noticed the man behind the corner.

Eventually having caught up to her, Nacho listened as she read a notepad, presumably the man's, aloud.

"Rockets led by Elite Officer, with Houndour, hot, enforces discipline - possible threat."

The two stifled laughter as she read it. To be fair, she isn't bad looking. She's like a what nin- Irrelevant, right. Anyway, it's pretty obvious from the 'possible threat' statement that he was a spy.

"...but could you please fetch me a rope? Thank you."

Nacho gulped and rubbed his neck sorely, then realized that she was going to use it as a form of restraint... right? Surely she would do anything that... extreme.

Muneca watched the Fire Fang fire dripping from the Houndour's mouth with curiosity and awe, but staying close to her companion. She attempted to copy what he was doing, opening and closing her mouth, but soon realized that A)she does not have teeth b)she doesn't know that move.

[New Jordslag]

She gave her brother a big hug- he often swore she acted like a twelve year old- and then wandered away from him. Time to ch s t some people up, as she'd always been taught to do. For a bit, she found nobody who looked interesting. Then she found a serious-faced trainer going through a bag. Contrary to the relaxed mood of nearly everyone else in the Gym, he seemed to be rather determined about something. Standing in front of him, she looked down at his eyes. "Hello," She said, in a curious voice. "What's in that bag? You seem rather serious."

Lucien Franconite, Dewford Gym

As I was picking up some Super Potions from my bag to add them to the resources at hand, basically refilling my healing items, someone went up and talked to me. Talked to me? What is this, the Pokemon Center? Anyway, I quickly lifted my head up and took a glance at the person. It was a girl, not that much to say. I mean, I don't talk to many people, I prefer my Pokemon, so I dmwasn't aware how this could go...

"Oh, this?" I spoke, referring to my bag. "Just a bunch of useless stuff - potions, Poke Balls and other crap. I like to keep it here, so m hands are free while battling." I remembered that she noted me beng much more serious than others - probably need to address that too. Interestingly enough, I saw myself as normal and others too wayward and cheerful to be good Traners, but I digress. "Well, I am someone who takes the whole training stuff seriously. I won't be here long - the afternoon training session is coming. Though, I suppose there is time for a chat."

"Hm!" Eleanor said, interested. "Well then. You seem like quite the reliable trainer. Few people here are as serious about battling as you. Unfortunately for you, I count myself among those people. It comes from having a former Champion as your Brother." She smirked. "So! Do you wish to battle?" Eleanor then seemed to freeze for a second. Then she giggled. "Oh, how rude of me! We haven't even been introduced!" She extended her hand. "I'm Eleanor Stone. What might your name be?"

[Finland SSR]

Lucien Franconite, Dewford Gym

As I was picking up some Super Potions from my bag to add them to the resources at hand, basically refilling my healing items, someone went up and talked to me. Talked to me? What is this, the Pokemon Center? Anyway, I quickly lifted my head up and took a glance at the person. It was a girl, not that much to say. I mean, I don't talk to many people, I prefer my Pokemon, so I dmwasn't aware how this could go...

"Oh, this?" I spoke, referring to my bag. "Just a bunch of useless stuff - potions, Poke Balls and other crap. I like to keep it here, so m hands are free while battling." I remembered that she noted me beng much more serious than others - probably need to address that too. Interestingly enough, I saw myself as normal and others too wayward and cheerful to be good Traners, but I digress. "Well, I am someone who takes the whole training stuff seriously. I won't be here long - the afternoon training session is coming. Though, I suppose there is time for a chat."

"Hm!" Eleanor said, interested. "Well then. You seem like quite the reliable trainer. Few people here are as serious about battling as you. Unfortunately for you, I count myself among those people. It comes from having a former Champion as your Brother." She smirked. "So! Do you wish to battle?" Alice then seemed to freeze for a second. Then she giggled. "Oh, how rude of me! We haven't even been introduced!" She extended her hand. "I'm Eleanor Stone. What might your name be?"

Two interesting things came forward in the short time that she replied in:

1. She is Eleanor Stone. Yes, the sister to Steven.
2. She wants to battle.

Both preferable options. Ever since catching Eviola many years ago, I have constantly strived to become the best that Hoenn, or even the entire planet, has to offer. Now then, this girl may be mo Steven, but she is his relative, and that's fairly close. I stood up, leaving the bag on the ground, took ot one of the balls on my belt and said:

"Now you're speaking MY language. My name's Lucien Franconite, nice to meet you, Eleanor, and-" I lifted my right hand with the Rule Ball in hand up, in my battle stance. "-I accept your challenge."