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Chapter Text

“All aboard and welcome challenger to the battle subway!” Twenty-five year old Emmet loudly proclaimed.

With the Subway Boss billowing his long white and brown striped trench coat out dramatically upon the challenger’s arrival into the subway train car. As Emmet adjusted his white train conductor hat and pulled out a pokèball he had hidden within his white glove. He then spun on his finger before catching it one-handed in his open palm.

“Hello challenger I am Emmet!” The young man introduced himself. “I like double battles and I like winning more than anything else. So let’s start by having a great battle and may the best trainer win!” Emmet finished saying confidently.

Right as the Subway Boss pointed his finger in the air and called out his Archeops and Eelektross as his first set of Pokèmon. At the precise moment the protective barrier activated to ensure the subway car wouldn’t get damaged during the Pokèmon fight. While the challenger fixed his own red and white baseball cap and called out a Galvantula and Klinklang in opposition to Emmet’s two leading Pokèmon—

‘Hah, what an easy path to victory!’ Emmet proclaimed confidently in his head. With the young man running the stats and numbers in his mental calculations. That also factored in Galvantula and Klinklang’s abilities and move sets. Emmet presumed the challenger would utilize to his tactical advantage—

Before Galvantula and Klinklang both fell simultaneously to a well timed Earthquake and Thunderbolt combination. As Emmet mentally tallied the battle points in his head and flashed the unhappy challenger an elated smile.

“Oh come now surely you aren’t going to call it quits so easily.” Emmet taunted playfully.

His earnest jest prompting a displeased reaction out of the challenger. As the trainer scowled irritably and called out a Volcarona and Tyranitar next. Which Emmet saw as much more threatening leads compared to the previous Pokèmon Hilbert had sent out earlier—

“…Ah I see you saved the best for last then.” The Subway Boss quickly regained his composure once he adjusted his white train conductor hat. “But no matter! Because this battle is still far from over!” Emmet proclaimed boldly.

With the twenty-five year old readjusting his strategy accordingly. So, that Volcarona would at least suffer significant damage from Archeop’s Rock Slide. As the attack managed to flinch Tyranitar in return. To thereby provide Eelektross with the opportunity to Thunder Wave it in the aftermath of fainting to Volcarona’s Swarm boosted Bug Buzz and—

‘Ah. A triumphant victory yet again.’ Emmet thought proudly. Once he called out Durant and had the fast metal ant bash Tyranitar with a super effective Iron Head to finish the double battle.

So, Tyranitar and Volcarona could fall in unison with Archeop’s Earthquake. As Emmet turned to face the disheartened Hilbert with a triumphant smile for a well fought battle.

Before the Subway Conductor followed-up with a handshake for good sportsmanship. “Ah! A well fought battle challenger but I’m afraid this is your stop. So, do come back again when you’re ready to fight the gauntlet again okay?”

“…Sure. But next time don’t expect to end my winning streak so easily.” Hilbert promised with his own self-assured smile.

The teenager sticking around to chat with Emmet a bit longer about battle strategies and tactics before the subway train came to its stop where Hilbert departed; defeated but not discouraged. As Emmet gave Hilbert’s departing figure a cheerful wave right when he heard clapping from behind him.

With his twin brother Ingo approaching and adjusting his own black and brown trench coat. “I must say brother I am impressed with the victory you pulled off against Hilbert.”

“Ah! Thank you, brother—“

“If.” Ingo interrupted Emmet’s delight to give him a mildly disappointed frown. Emmet didn’t like to see as it usually meant he was in trouble. “…If you didn’t resort to purposefully harming Durant to achieve that victory.” The twin motioned to the injured steel bug Pokèmon.

Emmet purposefully avoided looking at as he scoffed and crossed his arms defensively. “Oh, come on! Ant wasn’t in harm’s way once I calculated the exact amount of damage he’d sustain from Arc’s Earthquake.”

“...Uh huh…”

“And! That Earthquake was essential to pull off because I wouldn’t have been able to secure my win if I didn’t faint Hilbert’s Volcarona and Tyranitar simultaneously.” Emmet pointed out with a petulant frown. “So, I assure you brother that it was a necessary maneuver that had to be done—“

“Emmet. I know you think that battling is all about stats and damage calculations, but you can’t forget that Pokèmon are living sentinent beings who are your partners in battle. And it doesn’t look to me like Ant was happy with your decision to intentionally harm him.” Ingo knelt down next to the despondent Durant trilling unhappily.

Emmet winced at uneasily once he was faced with the aftermath of Durant’s injured state. As the younger twin sighed and pulled out a hyper potion to use on Ant wounds.

“…No I suppose he wouldn’t be.” Emmet patted Durant’s head apologetically. After his cranky Pokèmon retaliated to his trainer's dumb antics by nipping his hand. Which Emmet figured he deserved as he bit back his pained cry. “…But Ant rest assured that I am proud of how well you fought! And that I promise I shall reward you as an apology for hitting you with that Earthquake, alright?” The young man compromised to his surly partner.

As Ingo shook his head and flicked Emmet’s forehead affectionately. “More like I’ll reward Ant accordingly since you can’t cook for shit, idiot.”

“Hah! Now that’s…not entirely true. If I can make instant or frozen meals no problem.”

“Yeah? And how’s that going to help if your Pokèmon don’t get fed properly.” Ingo snarked back with an amused smile.

With the older twin bantering with his brother the entire train ride back to Nimbasa City. As Emmet jested back to Ingo’s teasing with what he felt was appropriate childish whining. After Emmet couldn’t fathom how cooking could be fun if there’s the mess that has to be cleaned afterwards. Since yes Ingo. He did follow the instructions and it’s not his fault if he mistook the sugar and the salt by mistake. The last time he tried cooking something that tasted awful—

Before Ingo cut Emmet off with a clap on the shoulder and jovial laughter. “Alright, alright. Enough with the dramatics little brother. Or how else will I get to the store to ensure that we both don’t starve to your terrible culinary skills.”

“It’s called ordering out brother.” Emmet rolled his eyes while trying to hide his amused smile. “And it’s a leisure activity we can do to save time. Since there are restaurants still open for us to dine at.”

“And what? Waste more money needlessly because of your laziness?” Ingo blandly stated with a raised eyebrow. “Or did you forget that our fridge is empty because someone forgot to do the grocery shopping like he promised—“

“Oh will you look at the time! I think it’s time that you get going to the store, brother.” Emmet hastily started pushing Ingo towards the exit.

As Ingo playfully swatted Emmet away and snickered at his brother’s embarrassed state. “Hah. Well, you’re not wrong about that since I want to have dinner too. But try not to fill up on junk food while I’m gone? Or I’ll be shoving dinner down your throat for anything you don’t eat.”

“Yes mom.” Emmet sarcastically groused.

With the younger twin waving dismissively at Ingo’s mother henning. So, Emmet could take off back to their place and relax after a hard day’s work. As the Subway Boss trudged inside their home and took off his white trenchcoat to grab some chips and collapse on the sofa with a content sigh. Right before Emmet started flipping through the channels absently until he suddenly jolted awake. Since the younger twin didn’t expect to have fallen asleep accidentally while watching TV. As the time now read as 8pm and—

Wait. Ingo…left for the store at 5:30pm didn’t he? So…why wasn’t he back yet? Emmet sat up alarmed. Especially when he tried called Ingo and the call went straight to voicemail. Since the unanswered phone call prompted Emmet to curse and run out of the house towards the general store. Where he found….

Where Emmet saw….

...Nothing but a discarded grocery bag lying on in the street abandoned. Next to what looked like Ingo’s black messenger bag spilling open with all his Pokèmon contained in their Pokè balls. A foreboding sign that sent chills down Emmet’s spine once he called out his brother’s Chandelure and demanded Shadow tell him what happened—

Until Emmet saw how distressed Chadelure was. When Shadow appeared and she was frantically looking around for her trainer. With such a lost and despairing cry that Emmet felt his heart clench in sympathetic pain and—

He doesn’t understand.

‘Ingo. Why…where was his brother?’ Emmet thought desperately.

The younger twin shushing Chandelure with weak reassurances before he recalled the fire ghost back into her Pokè ball. Once the rain began down pouring and Emmet threw Ingo’s messenger back beneath his trenchcoat to protect it. So, he could then ask everyone residing in Nimbasa if they had seen Ingo. Or when they last saw him to provide some context or clue as to Ingo’s whereabouts. After Ingo has now been missing for hours. Since the two of them parted ways at the train station. When Emmet should have gone with Ingo to the store. Because if he had gone then at least…

At least then Ingo wouldn’t have been alone and Emmet could have seen what happened. Or could have prevented it and—

Why were all the answers the same?! Why did no one have anything useful to say?!

“No sorry man, I haven’t seen Ingo.”

“Oh, Ingo isn’t home yet? That’s strange since he left the store a few hours ago. Are you sure you two didn’t miss each other?”

“The last I saw Ingo was when he was walking to the store. But uh…outside of that I have no clue where he’s at and I hope you find him soon, man.”

“Ingo is missing? But…where could he have gone? He never would have just up and left Nimbasa City.”

‘No shit. He wouldn’t have!’ Emmet nearly screamed out loud. With the Subway Boss barely keeping himself together at this point. Now that he was entering into a full blown anxiety attack.

As Emmet kept running blindly through the pouring rain until he wound up in front of the Nimbasa City Gym. Where he slammed his fist against the door in hopes that Elesa would be home or at least answer the damn door—

Until Elesa opened it surprised to see the soaking wet Emmet. Before the twenty-one-year-old Gym Leader furrowed her brow concerned at her colleague’s distress.

Especially when Emmet shoved his way inside Elesa’s gym and shook the water off of Ingo’s messenger bag. “Elesa! We need to contact the International Police right away!”

“Wait what? Why what happened—“

“It’s Ingo! He’s gone missing!” Emmet blurted out panicked. “I found his bag lying in the street just now with his Pokèmon all inside and we need to act before the perpetrators get away—“

“Emmet calm down!” Elesa snapped, trying to keep up with the other’s rambling. “How sure are you Ingo is missing? Because maybe he’s simply taking a stroll outside Nimbasa City—“

“By himself?! Without his Pokèmon?!”

“…Okay. Maybe not.” Elesa admitted with an apologetic grimace. “But panicking will get us nowhere if we’re simply jumping to conclusions—“

“I know my brother!” Emmet shouted angrily. “I know that he’s as meticulous as I am regarding schedules and time. And the fact that he’s not home…that I found that grocery bag lying abandoned in the street alongside his Pokèmon…and that he’s not answering his cell...it’s—This isn’t normal Elesa! Something happened to Ingo and I should…why did I stupidly come here when I need to call the police myself dammit!” The younger twin admonished himself, fishing through his own pockets to pull out his cell frantically.

Until Elesa laid a comforting hand on Emmet’s tense arm and forced her way into his line of sight. “….Emmet breath and calm down. Whatever happened, I promise we will find Ingo, okay? So, take deep breaths and relax—“

“I am calm!” Emmet wrenched his arm out of Elesa’s grip. “I’m perfectly fine and this stupid rain just needs to get out of my eyes—“

“Emmet…oh Emmet.” Elesa stared at her colleague sadly once he started breaking down.

With Emmet rubbing at his eyes and unable to contain the loud sobs escaping his throat. As the Subway Boss hardly registered Elesa enfolding his taller form into a comforting embrace.

Before Emmet broke down crying and couldn’t get the tears to stop falling. Now that he knew without a doubt Ingo was gone.

Chapter Text

Two years later...

Alola was a strange place in Emmet’s mind when he started comparing it to Unova. Especially when Emmet wasn’t used to wandering aimlessly through what was supposedly one of Alola’s busiest cities. As Malie City had a population density that was less than half of Castelia City. Despite it being one of Alola's more popular tourists attractions. Which was more apparent once Emmet could walk down the cobblestone paths at ease. Without the younger man having to worry about getting squished or trampled by the other people milling about.

As Emmet passed by the green pan tiled roofs constructed atop the various restaurants, stores, and houses with complete disinterest. Since his attention was solely on the silent phone in his pants pocket that felt like a heavy object weighing him down. Which prompted Emmet to pull it out and check his cell for the ten thousandth time. That still showed a blank screen with no new phone call or message from President Lusamine and—

‘Damn. How much longer is this going to take?’ Emmet thought drearily. Once he collapsed on the empty outdoor bench completely exhausted.

With Emmet holding the phone listlessly in his hand and closing his eyes to feel the ocean breeze cooling down his heated skin. As the former Subway Boss wiped the sweat off his brow with a mildly disgusted grimace. Until he heard his phone alarm go off that caused him to groan and flick it off irritated. Since now was hardly the time to eat if he wasn’t hungry dammit—

Before Emmet winced at phantom Ingo’s worried frown boring holes into him. When the twenty-seven-year-old could easily envision how displeased Ingo would be if he saw his miserable state. Since the former Subway Boss knew his twin wouldn’t be happy to notice the weight loss the other was experiencing. Due to how he wasn’t eating or sleeping properly and—

‘Well. Maybe if you weren’t gone then you’d be able to chastise me in person.’ Emmet scoffed bitterly.

With the young man pulling a granola bar out of his jacket pocket that he bit into dispassionately. Like he didn’t care for the food he was shoving down his throat. Before he tossed the wrapping absently onto the ground with an uncaring shrug—

At the precise moment the wrapper struck the back of his head. With the action having enough force behind it to catch Emmet’s attention. Once he sharply turned his head to stare at the disappointed eight-year-old girl.

Who had her hands on her hips and was tapping her foot in disapproval towards Emmet’s actions. “Hey, mister! Littering is a crime and you should know better if you don’t want to get fined.”

“Tch, and who pray tell is going to fine me if we’re the only ones around.” Emmet replied skeptically.

While the little girl pursed her lips and huffed irritably at Emmet’s unapologetic behavior. “My uncle will when I tell him what you did. So, apologize or else I’ll get you in trouble.”

“…For what? Committing the same ‘crime’ as everyone else?” Emmet grumbled uncomfortably, hating how a child of all people was lecturing him about what was right and wrong behavior. Before Emmet reluctantly decided to concede to her point. “...But fine. I guess you’re right about the littering, so…I’m sorry I knowingly did it and I promise it won’t happen again.”

“...Really?” The little girl asked dubiously.

Until Emmet offered her a feeble yet hollow smile. “Yes really. And I promise on my honor as a Subway Boss that I shall do my best to uphold the law moving forward.”

“Humph. Well I hope so, mister. Since I hate talking to liars.” The child said bluntly.

As Emmet chuckled at the kid’s honesty. “As do I. So, I guess we share that in common.”

“Hm, I guess we do…Although, I suppose I can cut you some slack if you’re still sad for losing your other half.” The eight-year-old replied with a worried frown.

Her words freezing Emmet’s faux smile with a critical hit Blizzard that blindsided him entirely. As the former Subway Boss stared at the child’s sad yet knowing look. Before he swallowed uneasily at the pair of gray eyes that felt like they were peering directly into his soul.

“Huh? Wha…what are you talking about?” Emmet asked her cautiously.

While the little girl tilted her head thoughtfully and twirled a strand of her short purple hair. “...I’m talking about the empty spot you have next to you. That indicates you’re missing someone important who’s lost but not dead.”

“I-I see.” Emmet stammered uneasily, unsure of what to make of the child’s eerie remarks. “B-But what makes you think that Ingo isn’t gone? If everyone else thinks I’m delusional for clinging to a false hope?”

“Well, it’s because if he was dead then he’d be somewhere nearby.” The child replied patiently like Emmet was the one who needed to have things explained properly. “Since ghosts tend to linger by their loved ones when they can’t move on.”

“…I see. And that’s why you think my brother isn’t dead?” Emmet asked hopefully.

Once the kid nodded her head and smiled at Emmet brightly. “Yup. So…even if you’re sad now, chin up. Because I doubt your brother wants to see you mourning an empty casket.” The child pointed out factually.

With her words helping to ease the gnawing worry in Emmet’s heart. As the young man released a relieved sigh and offered the girl an earnest yet melancholy smile.

“…No, I supposed Ingo wouldn’t want that would he. Even if I wish I could find him after he’s been missing for two years.”

“Oh…I'm sorry to hear that.” The kid replied sympathetically.

Until Emmet waved her apologies off dismissively with a disgusted nose winkle. “…Don’t give me condolences I don’t want to hear, kid. If I’ve heard enough to be absolutely sick of them.”

“Oh. Yeah sorry. It’s force of habit even if you’re right about how it’s annoying to listen to after a while.”

“Exactly. So, you get what I’m saying then?”

“Uh huh. I do! Since that’s how I felt whenever people said the same thing about my parents.” The girl replied bluntly to Emmet’s alarmed look. Before she rolled her eyes with an irritated huff. “…Mister, if you wind up being a hypocrite.…”

“I-I wasn’t!” Emmet stumbled, trying to backpedal before he said the exact same thing he admonished her for earlier. “I just…you caught me off guard with your nonchalant attitude.” The former Subway Boss pointed out.

While the child shrugged and fiddled with the hem of her lavender dress. “…It happened a long time ago. And I mean...it’s not like I don’t miss mom and dad. If I just have to accept that they’re in a better place now.”

“True but…you do have someone taking care of you, right?” Emmet asked mildly concerned for the child’s well being.

Before the little girl smiled brightly and nodded her head happily. “Of course, silly! I have my uncle remember?”

“Oh right…your uncle who is a police officer here in Alola?”

“Uh huh. A police officer and the Island Kahuna.” The child corrected him proudly.

Her information throwing Emmet off guard since he didn’t anticipate speaking to a politician's niece. As he wracked his brain quickly about the Alolan politics and how the Kahuna were important leaders. Who presided over each of the four islands after they were chosen by the mysterious Tapus protecting Alola. Before Emmet turned back to the child with an impressed smile.

“I see! Well, then. It sounds like you’re very fortunate to have such a hard worker like your uncle ruling over Ula’ Ula Island.” The former Subway Boss started complimenting the unknown Kahuna.

Until the kid stared at Emmet with a blank expression for his cordial remark.“…Mister. You know that Uncle Nanu is viewed as the laziest Kahuna in Alola right?”

“Uhh…”

“…Although I don’t agree with what people say about him. So, it is nice to hear someone compliment him even if you’re only doing it to be polite.” The young girl said courteously to cut Emmet some slack.

As Emmet quickly regained his composure and tried to look less flustered in front of the child's astute observations. “Y-Yes well. Even so…it still doesn’t change the fact that he sounds like a good man if he’s been raising you well on his own.”

“Oh, yes you are right about that.” The young girl replied happily.

While Emmet hummed in agreement and waggled his finger. “Precisely. And I think you’ll find that I’m rarely if ever wrong when it comes to judging people. So, we shall agree that I am right as always and that there is no questioning my accurate assessment regarding this Nanu character.”

“Hell yeah!” The girl nodded her head in affirmation to Emmet’s statement. “Even if you can’t always be right and...I wish you were less sad in general." She pointed out upon noticing Emmet’s faux amicable mood diminishing.

Once the hollow emptiness blanketed over him when the distraction had ended. So, the former Subway Boss was left with this overwhelming numbness festering in his chest. That hasn’t let up ever since Emmet saw Ingo’s discarded messenger bag which was seared into his mind.

“...Yeah, I wish that could be the case as well...” Emmet quietly admitted, staring despondently down at his folded hands.

Until he noticed the small child covering his much larger hands with her own. “…Hey, mister? You know that things will be okay, right?”

“…Really? And how do you know that?”

“Because! Whatever is lost can always be found. And it’s why you’ll definitely find your brother soon enough.”

"...You think so?"

"Yes." Acerola stated confidently. "So, don't give up and try to stay positive, okay?"

“…Sure. Even if it's easier said then done.” Emmet sighed wearily.

With the former Subway Boss hardly feeling better than when he first arrived in Alola. Yet still appreciating the kid’s efforts to at least listen and offer comfort. Since it was nice talking to someone who at least hadn’t given up on Ingo like everyone else had.

Especially if this chat with the strange child at least reassured Emmet that Ingo was still alive wherever he was at.

Chapter Text

“…I’m sorry but unfortunately we do not possess the technology to create Ultra wormholes artificially at this time.”

“Wha…what do you mean? Your company has been researching them for years, hasn’t it?! So surely you must know something as to how they form!”

“We do but forcing them to appear is something out of our control regrettably. As we are still working on the technical means to accomplish this in our research department.”

“…And how long will it take before you have a working prototype?”

“As of right now? Not for another several years—” Lusamine said over the ringing in Emmet’s ears.

A ringing that wouldn’t stop. Despite Emmet’s best efforts to listen. When all he wanted to do was break the cell phone in his hands and throw it against the wall. Before he broke down crying yet again. And—

And…

‘…Why couldn’t things work out for the better? Why after two years did he still have nothing to show for his hard work and efforts?’ Emmet thought miserably.

The young man sitting listlessly on the ground with his back leaning against the nearby stone building. Emmet hardly paid attention to since none of it mattered. When all he could do was bash his head against the building and clench his hand tightly in his short gray hair. Like he was tempted to rip it out if he could at least feel something. Aside from the dismal emptiness trying to devour him and—

Damn everything. Damn that stupid useless phone call. Damn this waste of a trip to Alola. And damn that stupid alarm going off. Because like hell was Emmet going to sleep if all he could was sit there and replay that entire worthless conversation. Like something Lusamine said was going to change despite evidence to the contrary—

Before the phone alarm kept blaring loud enough for Emmet to sigh wearily and flick it off. As the former Subway Boss stared blankly at all the alarms set in his phone. Since the alarms were supposed to give him some form of a ‘schedule’ to live by while Ingo wasn’t around. That included basic stupid crap such as ‘go to sleep’, ‘wake up’, ‘eat breakfast’, ‘eat lunch’, ‘eat dinner’, ‘take a shower’, and rinse and repeat every day. Until—

…What. What was the point of any of this if Ingo wasn’t coming back? Emmet laughed hollowly alongside the tears falling freely down his face.

Especially when his only lead was all for naught like he had feared. When the young man blankly stared up at the night sky. While contemplating his depressed state and miserable existence. That just seemed so tiring to endure if he couldn’t find Ingo after all this time and…

…And that maybe he should get some sleep if he was hallucinating…a hole in the sky?

Emmet blinked his eyes bemused by what he was seeing.

Specifically, when he rubbed at his tired eyes and still saw what looked like the sky tearing in half. As Emmet scrambled to his feet staring at the rift in complete shock. While he wondered if this was the mysterious ultra wormhole Lusamine and the Aether Foundation were researching.

Before the sudden appearance of the rift made Emmet realize something integral. That was enough for the young man to scramble for his Poké ball and call out his Archeops. Who towered over Emmet with his enormous size upon standing next to his trainer with a concerned trill at Emmet’s disheveled state.

Emmet quickly ignored so he could turn to Archeops with a determined yet borderline manic grin. “Arc! Quickly there’s not much time!”

“Rrreee?”

“I need you to fly us up into that hole in the sky before it disappears, so we can go find Ingo.”

“Rrrreee!”

“What? What do you mean why—Because it’s the only lead we have!” Emmet shouted, looking at his worried Archeops with sheer desperation. “And if we miss our chance now then we won’t…we’ll be back to square one and I can’t…I don’t know what else to do if we don’t try this.” The young man pleaded with his Pokémon.

With Emmet staring at Archeops on the verge of renewed tears. Since Emmet needed the Pokémon to please listen and help him dammit—

Until Archeops gave an affirmative squawk and nuzzled his trainer’s head affectionately. Before he easily lifted Emmet onto his back with hardly any trouble due to his enormous size dwarfing his trainer entirely.

So, the giant fossilized bird could take a running start that helped him soar straight into the open rift in the sky like Emmet had hoped. When he clung onto Arc desperately to hold on. While feeling the wind blowing fiercely against him that forced Emmet to secure his train conductor hat atop his head.

Since wherever they’d wind up would hopefully be a better lead then what Emmet has been unable to find for the past two years in the other regions.

Once everything faded away—

And the rift closed behind them without a trace. Like it had come and gone without anyone in Alola being any wiser to what happened.

Chapter Text

“Well...that is definitely a one hundred and one degree fever.” A young fifteen-year-old Ingo read the thermometer worriedly.

While a fifteen-year-old Emmet tried protesting from where he was lying in bed. “N-no. It’s not…” He barely got out through his coughing fit.

A coughing fit which resulted in Ingo leaning over and rubbing Emmet’s back comfortingly. While Emmet continued hacking what felt like his lungs out of his throat. Until it eventually subsided and the twin blearily looked up at Ingo’s pensive face miserably.

Before Ingo glimpsed over at his starter Litwik’s concerned cries. “…Maybe we should hold off going on our journey until you’re feeling better—“

“W-what?! No!” Emmet rasped out weakly. “You’ve been looking forward to starting your Pokèmon journey all week, Ingo. So, don’t opt out of going just because I’m sick—“

“It’s not just that.” Ingo replied calmly, giving Emmet a reassuring smile. “It’s also the fact that we wanted to travel together remember? So…until you’re well then I don’t mind waiting a bit longer—“

“…I got mom and dad here to take care of me.” Emmet pointed out. “…And I know you packed your bag last night with the full intent of leaving today. So…why not go and just call or text me with updates in the meantime.”

“…Hm. And what voice do you plan on talking with?” Ingo eyed Emmet skeptically.

More so when Emmet suppressed his coughs and gave Ingo a pointed unamused glower. “With this one obviously, smartass. And if anything I’ll push myself—reasonably!” Emmet was quick to reassure Ingo’s alarmed look. “To catch up to you once I’m feeling better. Since the doctor said I should recover in a few weeks with plenty of bed rest.”

“…Perhaps. But…are you sure you’re okay with me leaving?” Ingo asked his twin one last time.

With Emmet nodding his head and giving Ingo a reassuring thumbs up. So, he could pretend like his sore throat was bothering him and preventing him from talking further. As Ingo, upon turning his back away, couldn’t see how quickly Emmet’s smile disappeared. In place of a quivering lip that was accompanied by watery eyes Emmet did his best to hide in his blanket.

Once Ingo said goodbye in the doorway and wished Emmet well alongside Shadow following his lead out of the bedroom. Which meant that Emmet could only squeeze his eyes shut as Ingo took off and left him by himself for the first time that wasn’t just a measly few hours. Now that Emmet felt lonely and disinterested towards everything he tried to distract himself with. As something would happen and Emmet would turn to talk to thin air on accident. Or looked up hopefully whenever the door opened and he expected Ingo to walk through like usual.

Since by the time Emmet recovered, Ingo was already three badges ahead of him. With the older twin making his way to Nimbasa City next. While all sick, weak, pathetic, Emmet could do was watch helplessly from the sidelines. Until he received Ingo’s gift in the mail that was a plume fossil his brother found in Relic Castle. A fossil which Emmet revived as a huge Archen he took with him as a partner for his Pokèmon journey.

So, Emmet could hurry out of Nacrene city. Before Ingo got too far ahead and Emmet couldn’t—

Emmet could only—

—Wake up groggily with his face smushed into a mud puddle that smelled horrible upon Emmet’s awakening. Once the foul stench triggered his gag reflex and a coughing fit that lasted for what felt like forever. With Emmet looking at his dirtied outfit disgusted at all the mud coating what was his once white pristine clothes.

Until Emmet heard his Archeops croak painfully from over where he was lying in the mud as well. Where Archeops was breathing heavily and struggling to get up. That prompted Emmet to curse and quickly rush over to check if Arc was okay. Right as he heard some threatening growls from behind them—

And saw what looked like some angry hoard of male and female Hippopotas appearing through the fog. That were growling irritably at Emmet and Archeops with the full intent of charging up some ground type attacks.

A fact that Emmet was in no mood to deal with. When he scowled angrily back at the wild Pokèmon. Before he tossed out his Excadrill and gestured to the weak little hoard not worth his time.

“…Drill take care of these unwanted pests with an Earthquake will you?” Emmet ordered dismissively.

With Emmet paying no mind to the small hippopotamus-like creatures shrieking terrified at the ground tearing apart from Excadrill’s strong Earthquake attack. As the former Subway Boss pulled out a hyper potion to spray over Archeop’s wounds. While he was busy petting Arc’s feathers gently and providing his starter with a relieved yet thankful smile.

“Arc you did very well getting us here safely.” Emmet thanked his injured Pokèmon.

His words causing Archeops to trill happily at his trainer’s praises once he was healed by the hyper potion. As Arc nuzzled Emmet’s face affectionately over the human’s amused chuckles. Before Emmet helped nudge Archeops to sit up. So, the younger twin could try and discern their whereabouts in the unfamiliar landscape. Once he vaguely saw, through the heavy fog, some mud, water, and patches of dried tall yellow grass nearby. That contained what sounded like more wild Hippopotas and Croagunks Emmet could hear milling about.

“…What in Zekrom’s name…where are we exactly?” Emmet muttered beneath his breath pensively.

Especially when Emmet stared at the unfamiliar place blankly with no clue as to where they were. Until the former Subway Boss suddenly heard a ferocious roar somewhere nearby—

That revealed itself to be a giant grey female Hippowdon stepping forward in front of the smaller Hippopotas Excadrill scared away earlier. With the smaller Pokemon appearing smug and making noises that Emmet thought sounded similar to snickering. Like the little bastards were getting revenge for earlier—

Emmet had no patience to deal with. As the younger man huffed defiantly and glimpsed over at his Excadrill. Who looked equally annoyed at what the little sly hippos had done.

“…Right. Well if that’s how they want to play then so be it.” Emmet adjusted his dirtied white train conductor cap. Before he threw out his hand dramatically once he heard his Archeops take flight. “Since we’ll easily fight back as Arc uses Rock Slide and Drill uses Earthquake again!” He ordered loudly.

With both of Emmet’s Pokèmon readily obeying his commands by following through with their attacks. So, that most of the smaller Hippopotas either fled or fainted to the two strong attacks.

While the enormous Hippowdon tanked the two hits and roared viciously. Before the enormous Pokèmon utilized the heavy fog to her advantage by making a tactile retreat further into the bog. Since the unexpected maneuver forced Emmet look around wildly and curse beneath his breath. Now that the low visibility caused him to lost sight of the wild Pokèmon. Who could be anywhere—

Until the Mud Bomb struck his Excadrill abruptly and caused the steel ground type to cry in pain. With thankfully no accuracy drop taking effect once Excadrill bared his teeth and shook off the lingering mud in disgust. As Emmet made sure his Pokèmon was still okay to fight before he focused his attention back on the fight.

“Dammit. Okay. Think Emmet use your brain. Because even if the fog is a nuisance, it doesn’t mean we won’t be able to find the Hippodown…” Emmet muttered to himself.

While Emmet tried listening to where the enemy Hippowdon might be. Since the Pokèmon had to be somewhere nearby if she struck his Excadrill in his blind spot. And if Emmet took the time to triangulate the angle at which the Mud Bomb struck Excadrill…

So, he could listen attentively to the Pokèmon cries in the area. That were a mix of the familiar Hippopotas and Croagunks from before. Until Emmet heard a low bellowing growl that stuck out amongst all the higher pitches ones over on the left side—

That was all Emmet needed to try and pinpoint the wild Pokèmon’s location. Once Emmet used the newfound knowledge to his advantage to properly direct his Pokèmon in the battle that was about to end with their victory.

“Hah! A nice try but not good enough. Drill use Iron Head straight ahead and Arc provide him with backup by using Aerial Ace!” Emmet directed his team to their target confidently.

As both Archeops and Excadrill worked in unison to push through the foggy weather and strike the defenseless grey female Hippowdon. Who couldn’t protect herself from the combined attacks that managed to strike her down. Since the wild Pokèmon soon collapsed onto the ground motionless and still. That Emmet wanted to make sure was a faint once he ran over to confirm it. While Excadrill scoffed at their downed adversary and hit Hippowdon’s rough skin with the back of his metal claws irately. Since Drill expressed great displeasure towards the wild Pokèmon and the trouble it caused.

A fact that left Emmet sharing the same sentiments as his Pokèmon. Given that the younger twin was bemused by what caused the Pokèmon in the area to attack them so relentlessly—

Until Emmet heard two surprised gasps that informed him they weren’t alone. As the former Subway Boss narrowed his eyes and motioned for his Excadrill and Archeops to keep their guard up.

In case something else was about to happen.

“…Who’s there?” Emmet demanded cautiously.

The younger man wishing he had some sort of self-defense weapon on him. So, he didn’t have to rely heavily on his injured Pokèmon for protection. Once Emmet noticed the tall grass rustling next to him. Before the yellow grass parted ways to reveal two young teenagers wearing some strange blue ancient historical garbs. With the young boy, wearing a red cap atop his head to match his red scarf, holding his hands up in a placating gesture.

Like he was letting Emmet know that they mean no harm.

“…Um sorry about startling you, sir. But I couldn’t get over my shock at how you defeated the Alpha Hippowdon.” The young male teenager said awestruck.

While Emmet rubbed the back of his neck a bit embarrassed by the unexpected praise. “Oh…that wasn’t a huge deal since it’s thanks to Drill and Arc that we were able to defeat a what now?”

“An Alpha.” The young teenage girl replied. “They’re larger and stronger versions of the average Pokèmon. And that one was chasing Rei and I for a while. Until you showed up and defeated it out of nowhere.”

“…I see. And this young man over here is named Rei I take it?” Emmet pointed to Rei.

As Rei nodded his head in affirmation. “Yup. I’m Rei and this here is Dawn. We’re members of the Galaxy Survey Corp.”

“The Galaxy what?” Emmet asked for further clarification.

Dawn was more than willing to provide with an understanding smile. “The Galaxy Expedition Corp. Its an organization consisting of people who have come from other regions to study the land of Hisui where we are now.”

“…I see. And this Hisui is located where exactly? Like somewhere near Unova?” Emmet inquired curiously.

With his words causing Rei to furow his brow perplexed. “…Unova? What is that?”

“What do you mean? It’s one of the many regions alongside Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, Kalos, Alola, and Galar!”

“Really? But then…how come I’ve never heard of them?” Rei said, sounding even more confused.

Before Dawn looked over at Emmet with a surprised expression. Once she noticed his modern clothes upon closer inspection. “…You. You’re a time traveler like me.”

“Wait he is?!”

“Which means…you’re from the present day.” Dawn concluded with a bright smile.

While Emmet stared at her warily and looked unsure of what to make of her claims. “…I’m sorry. What is it you’re saying now? I’m from where?”

“Present day or the future in this case. Since you and I were thrown into the past—“

“Wait. What?!” Emmet blurted out horrified.

With the former Subway Boss looking as if he’s not processing Dawn’s remarks well at all. Since the idea of going back in time…

…Of that wormhole actually throwing him back into the past….

…When he just dived into it without thinking and didn’t think about where he’d land…because the destination didn’t matter in Emmet’s mind if this was the only lead he had and how on earth….

…how did all of this sound too surreal to be actuality? Emmet tried rationalizing in his disjointed thoughts. Until Emmet thought back to when his brother disappeared abruptly two years ago. Without any trace or evidence left for Emmet or the International Police to find as Ingo was simply gone. Like he vanished out of thin air and no one, not even Emmet, could locate him. No matter how hard he searched or how he scoured all the regions for answers. And—

‘Wait. Dawn. Why did that name….sound familiar.’ Emmet thought abruptly.

His thoughts derailing from the shock of being in the past to scrutinize the teenager standing before him. As his mind flashed back to an international news report on the television screen back when he was eating at a diner in Alola. Where Sinnoh was in a full blown panic because their recent champion Dawn Hikari went missing in a similar manner Ingo did. That included Dawn leaving behind her Pokèmon team and her belongings. While her picture flashed onto the TV screen and—

“You! You’re Sinnoh’s missing champion!” Emmet suddenly put two and two together.

His words startling Dawn and Rei out of their private discussion. As the fifteen-year-old spun around and stared at Emmet in open shock towards his right assessment. Once he nodded his head thoughtfully and scrounged him memory for the remaining intel.

“…Yes. I remember seeing your picture on the news. Your mother and friends were interviewed and worried sick about you. Since you went missing without warning and disappeared about a week ago—“

“You…it’s only been a week since I’ve been reported missing?” Dawn ran over to tug Emmet’s arms.

Thereby leaving Emmet feeling a bit awkward at the sudden contact. While the young teenager tugged more insistently on his trenchcoat. Like it would get him to answer her more quickly.

“How are my family and friends doing? Did they look okay? Did any of them look sick? Or do you think my mom looked unwell—“

“I—I didn’t really pay attention! I had other stuff on my mind.” Emmet replied regrettably, seeing how quickly Dawn wilted in disappointment. Before the former Subway Boss cleared his throat and straightened his dirtied white trench coat. “…However from what I saw, it seemed like your friends were assisting your mother for the time being during your absence. So, I wouldn’t worry too much about them for now.”

“…I see.” Dawn looked away pensively, lost in thought with what Emmet said. Until she glimpsed over at him with an appreciative smile. “Well, thank you for the honest answer then, sir. Since I didn’t mean to bombard you with so many questions.”

“I-It’s no problem.” Emmet reassured her. “And my name is Emmet. So, can you two stop calling me ‘sir’? It makes me sound much older than I actually am. When I'm only twenty-seven-years-old.”

“Really? But you look a lot older—“ Rei was about to say. Before Emmet’s warning glare had him clamming up and changing his answer. “Never mind. I um. Misspoke cause what I meant was that you clearly look a lot younger than your age.”

“…Nice save.” Emmet replied flatly, appearing unamused by Rei’s piss poor attempt at salvaging his comment.

While Rei cleared his throat and started walking on ahead. “W-well in any case! Seeing as you also fell from the sky and are from the same world as Dawn, I think the Commander and Captain are going to want to see you.”

“Who?”

“Commander Kamado and Captain Cyllene.” Rei explained calmly to Emmet’s bemusement. “They are part of the Galaxy Expedition Team Dawn and I were telling you about. And if you come with us then we can all head back to Jubilife Village where the headquarters is situated.”

“…I see. But how do I know I can trust either of you?”

“I mean….you don’t? But do you have a better plan as to what you’re going to do?” Rei asked skeptically.

Particularly when it was apparent Emmet was floundering to counter Rei’s astute observation. As the former Subway Boss held up his finger like he had something to retort back with. Before Emmet realized he….might not have an answer like he had hoped. Once he lowered his hand and looked away in partial embarrassment.

“…You said that I should accompany you back to Jubilife Village?”

“Yup! And Rei and I will vouch for you so you can meet with Captain Cyllene.” Dawn promised kindly.

With both teenagers reassuring Emmet that accompanying them back to the village was perfectly fine. Since they’ll also help Emmet find some cleaner clothes to wear. As the former Subway Boss had little choice but to go along with the two teens. Who knew more about this peculiar Hisuian Region than himself.

Now that Emmet had no clue where he was and this new area left him uncertain about what to do from here on out.

Chapter Text

The new outfit Anthe the clothing shop keeper gave Emmet was…interesting to say the least. Since on one hand the white lilly flat cap, kimono, trousers, and white boots were the closest to a historical version of his current attire that Emmet could acquire. While on the other hand wearing them just made Emmet feel like he was playing dress up in a dated period piece.

Especially with how heavy and bulky the kimono felt against his lanky frame. As Emmet stepped out of the dressing room fumbling to fix his white trousers. So, he could tie them around his waist properly with the belt he requested Anthe bring him. While Anthe tutted unhappily and walked over to adjust the white lilly kimono top hanging off Emmet’s thin stature.

“Tch, still not a good fit, eh? And with that being the smallest size I have in stock, I can’t help but wonder if you’re eating enough. Since you seem like you’re all skin and bones—“

“Ah! Rest assured madam that I am perfectly fine!” Emmet was quick to reassure her. “As I most certainly eat two meals a day to ensure that I maintain my weight without any problems—“

“Two—young man you’re supposed to have three meals a day!”

“…Oh. Well then. Maybe in your books that is the case? But for me I hardly see a point in partaking in a dinner that’s far too late in the evening to enjoy—“

“Sir, dinner is perhaps one of the most important meals you should be having. And the fact that your skipping it is quite alarming—“

“I’m fine.” Emmet cut her off briskly, no longer finding amusement in the tedious discussion. “And if all you plan to do is nag me then I’ll take my leave and go attend my important meeting with Captain Cyllus—“

“Captain Cyllene actually—“

“Whatever. The point still remains that I have a meeting to go to and that I shouldn’t waste anymore valuable time dillydallying here if I have to go—“

“Now you see here young man, I am a mother of three children!” Anthe was quick to reprimand him. “And I certainly know an underweight person when I see one. So, you are going to march your skinny butt right into my home so that I can feed you a hearty dinner—“

“Sorry. I can’t hear you over my request to please dry clean these clothes.” Emmet dumped his dirtied white trenchcoat and train conductor hat into her arms with an appreciative smile.

Using the time Anthe spent sputtering in outrage to walk away and straight past the hairdresser and item’s shop. With a jovial whistle in his tune and skipping steps. As Emmet continued striding down the dirt path. Until he noticed an arena up ahead on the inclined slope. That piked the former Subway Boss’ curiosity enough to go check it out—

And nearly leap back from the sound of a wooden staff slamming into the ground.

“Halt! Who dares to enter my training grounds?” The robust tall redheaded woman demanded with another staff slam into the dirt.

Emmet was hardly impressed by when the twenty-seven-year-old rolled his eyes at her poor attempts to intimidate him. While he took note of the outdoor arena and the large brown and red tiled traditional dojo behind her.

“I believe that’s me, ma’am. Since I am currently searching for the Galaxy building where I’m to report for a meeting with Captain Cyllus?” Emmet asked for confirmation.

Before the muscular woman burst out laughing at Emmet’s name butchering he clearly didn’t register. “Cyllus? Oh, damn is that a good nickname I’ll have to use myself. Since lord only knows it might crack that tough nut into actually laughing for once.”

“Ah. And might I ask what is your personal relationship with this mysterious Captain?” Emmet inquired.

Right as the redhead smirked and crossed her arms. “Sure thing twiggy cause you’re looking at a fellow Captain yourself. As I’m Captain Zisu who is head of the Security Corps.”

“A what—I am most certainly not some fragile twig, madam!”

“Really? Well could have fooled me with how you look skinny enough to be snapped in half with one well aimed punch.” Zisu pointed out skeptically.

With her comment being something Emmet took personally. Once he narrowed his eyes and rolled up his kimono sleeves. “Try me and we’ll see how quickly you’re proven wrong.”

“Um…yeah. You sure about that? Cause you should know that once I accept a challenge I don’t back down till the other person is down and out.”

“Well rest assured then that the only ‘ass kicking’ will be you eating the dirt once I lay you out and prove you wrong.”

“Hah! Is that so?” Zisu punched her fist into her open palm. After she purposefully dropped her wooden staff onto the ground. “Well then quit barking and prove it, twiggy!”

“With pleasure.” Emmet vowed viciously.

As the former Subway Boss kicked his foot back into a fighting stance. So, he could lift his fists up and pull his right arm back. Right before Emmet lunged and aimed a vertical snap punch straight at Zisu—

Until she twisted her upper body and used an elbow block to break Emmet’s stance. With Zisu using a technique that caused Emmet to get his feet kicked out from underneath him. Just as the captain then kneed his back and twisted his arm to secure it in a proper lock. While Captain Zisu stared down at Emmet’s struggling form with a twinge of mild disappointment.

“…Dude I didn’t even get to use my favorite weapon in this fight. And you went down quicker than a weak newborn sapling—“

“Grr! Enough with the insults and let me up already!“

“Or what? You’re going to toss another love tap my way, twigs?” Zisu snorted dubiously.

With the Captain of the Security Corps releasing Emmet from her pinned hold. So, Emmet could hastily stand up and dust his now dirtied covered clothes with a wrinkle of disgust marring his features. Since this was now the second time he had ruined a pristine white outfit effectively within a twenty four hour time frame.

“…Look. Twiggy—“

“My name is Emmet!”

“Right, whatever you say Twiggy.” Zisu purposefully stuck with the nickname pissing Emmet off. “Cause as head of Security I got to ask if you have any battling potential hidden on that lanky puny frame? Or are you really just a Growlithe who can’t back his yapping for shit—“

“Oh, you are not going to stand there and question my Pokèmon battling prowess unless you’re absolutely prepared to lose.”

“Really twigs? Because the way I see it your scrawny ass won’t be able to do shit against my strong and agile style moves.”

“Is that so? Then let me be prepared to prove you wrong!” Emmet tossed out his Archeops in retaliation.

With the large giant fossilized feathered reptilian bird screeching loud enough to for his cry to echo throughout Jubilife Village. As Zisu whistled mildly impressed towards Arcehop’s fighting spirit. Before she pulled the wooden pokè ball off her belt and threw out her Luxray to start the fight.

“Huh. Not bad twigs. I didn’t know you had it in you to capture an Alpha Pokèmon.”

“A what?” Emmet replied bemused by Zisu’s remark.

While Zisu raised a skeptical eyebrow and motioned to his Archeops flapping his blue and beige feathered wings above the arena. “Your Alpha dude. The the one that you called out and are having battle against my Luxray?”

“Yes but Arc isn’t…he’s not an Alpha Pokèmon if I revived him as my starter.”

“Wait, really? But how…what do you mean you revived him? Cause that sounds different from capturing him in the wild.”

“It is. Because reviving is referring to how I asked the museum scientists to revive Arc from the plume fossil my brother gave me.” Emmet calmly explained in light of Zisu’s confusion.

Since his words did hardly anything to clear up her perplexed state. Once Zisu kept scratching her head like Emmet was the one talking nonsense. “Yeah but that’s not…possible, man. You can’t just revive a Pokèmon out of some rock if it’s already dead.”

“…Well, how else would you explain Archeops being here?”

“I dunno, but I’m sure whatever excuse I think of is better then your awful lying.” Zisu concluded to herself much to Emmet’s annoyance.

Especially when Zisu decided she done with pointless discussion regarding the strange fossilized bird. When she motioned to her Luxray to begin the battle.

“…But either way, let’s stop wasting time yammering like some old ladies. Because I still have to beat your scrawny ass and I’ll start by having Lux use Agile Wild Charge on that soon to be fried chicken!” Zisu ordered her black-blue electric lion.

With Luxray roaring in affirmation through the electricity sparking around his form wildly. Right as the blue and black furred lion-like creature rushed forward at a much faster speed than Emmet recalled Luxray having—

Until Archeops was forced to dodge Luxray’ incoming attack with a well timed Protect. Before the giant feathered bird flew higher up into the air. So, the electricital burst struck the area where Arc was initially hovering.

While Emmet quickly regained his composure and turned to the aggressive Pokèmon stunned. “…Shit. What the hell…how was Luxray capable of moving faster than my Archeops? If its base speed is 70 to my 110…”

“Oie! What’s with all that number nonsense you’re babbling about? This isn’t some lab that we’re in right now, nerd—“

“I’m aware of that!” Emmet snapped at Zisu with his own impatience. “I’m just—I need to understand what you just did though! Since logically this is something completely improvable—“

“Hah? Now how the hell can it be impossible if I had Lux use the agile version of Wild Charge?” Zisu replied confused.

With a strange remark Emmet himself was having a hard time understanding. As he stared back at her with equal bemusement.

“…An agile what now?”

“Agile style, duh!” Zisu huffed frustrated, crossing her arms. “It’s one of the two fighting styles Pokèmon are capable of using when they master a move in battle. Like how Lux over here is going to use the strong version of it now!” The Captain ordered her eager Luxray.

With the opponent’s sudden ability to move twice throwing Emmet completely off guard. Now that Zisu’s Luxray growled and took a flying leap in the air. So, the electric black-blue lion could tackle the startled Archeops with a higher accurate and stronger Wild Charge. That caused Arc to scream in agony and collapse onto the ground in dire shape. While the fossilized reptilian bird was snarling and struggling to get back up. Despite the electricity coursing throughout his body—

Until Emmet abruptly recalled Archeops back with a displeased frown directed at Arc’s poke ball for a brief moment. Before he grabbed another Pokè ball and send out his Excadrill next. Who’s appearance was baffling to both Zisu and her Luxray. When the two of them were staring at their new opponent with a raised eyebrow.

“…Right. I’ll give you the first victory point.” Emmet reluctantly conceded. “But we still have two more rounds before we decide the winner—“

“Hold on!” Zisu protested loudly. “What the hell—why did you withdraw the giant fried chicken?! He was raring to go and get back up to fight—“

“No he wasn’t.” Emmet scoffed bitterly. “Not when his stupid Defeatist ability activated after he was below half health and his offensive stats were cut in half to pathetic dismal levels of uselessness—“

“His what?”

“His ability obviously!” Emmet griped irritably. “The stupid inborn ability that dumb bird has which cripples his battling capabilities so long as he’s not at full health. Because for some damn reason the Archen line wants to be destined to be weak and worthless—“

“Okay first off, I have no clue what you’re talking about with this ‘ability nonsense.” Zisu admitted honestly with a displeased scowl at Emmet’s harsh words. “But, even if that’s true, then that doesn’t give you a right to diss your partner. If your Pokèmon clearly still wanted to keep fighting and continue the battle—“

“Nonsense. If Arc continued fighting he would have lost. His attack stat was cut in half and his piss poor damage output would do nothing to Luxray. So, there’s no point in continuing if it’s clear what the outcome would be—“

“But how would you know if you never gave Arc the chance to prove you wrong!” Zisu shouted utterly pissed by Emmet’s callous observations. “How can you stand there and just insult your partner for something that isn’t his fault. If it’s clear that he wanted to keep going despite whatever this ability is!“

“Because I lost too many battles giving Arc a chance and I won’t continue making the same mistake!” Emmet shouted back. “Especially if it means Arc will just keep fainting and disappointing me because he can’t do shit in his current state. And I refuse to let him cost me a battle due to something as silly as false hope or sentimentality—“

“You’re a right bastard you know that?” Zisu spat out angrily with fire brimming in her eyes as she clenched her fists tightly. Like she wanted to run over and punch Emmet in the face until he didn’t get back up. “And I don’t know what stick you have up your ass to play judge and jury for your Pokèmon, but I can’t wait till I pummel your arrogant attitude into smithereens.”

“Is that so, Captain?” Emmet mocked with a cocky smirk. “Then stop talking and prove it. Because I can assure you this battle is far from over once Drill uses Earthquake to take out that stupid cat!” The former Subway Boss instructed his Pokèmon.

With his Excadrill roaring and slamming his metal claws together. So he could slam them into the ground and tear it open beneath Luxray’s feet. As the electric lion took the incoming Earthquake head on with no way to evade it. Once the powerful ground move struck Zisu’s Pokèmon and Luxray was knocked unconscious. Which forced Zisu to reluctantly withdrew her fallen Luxray and turn to Emmet with a contemplative frown.

“…That move you did just now, what was it?”

“Huh? You mean Earthquake?” Emmet asked perplexed by the odd question.

More so when Zisu nodded her head and stared at the torn and destroyed arena. “…Yeah. That move. Because I’ve never seen a powerful ground move like that before and the fact that you managed to do it without using a strong style…is impressive to say the least. Even though you’re a right jerk who probably views Drill as some weak Pokèmon too—“

“Now see here!” Emmet protested over Zisu’s inaccurate accusations. “I’m not going to stand here listening to this bullshit. If that’s the furthest thing from the truth—“

“Really? And are you only saying that because your Drill thingy managed to win against my Luxray?”

“No! I’m saying that because you’re wrong about how I feel towards my Pokèmon.” Emmet bit out irately. “And I’ll prove it once I defeat your next Pokèmon by utilizing Excadrill’s stats and typing to my advantage—“

“Oh, there you go again with this stat and typing nonsense!” Zisu threw her hands up in the air. “Like seriously, man are you trying to be a dick on purpose? Because you know that Pokèmon are more than just numbers and whatever bullshit you’re spouting out—“

“Don’t be ridiculous.” Emmet snorted scathingly. “Especially when statistics and data have proven time and time again what Pokèmon are capable of doing. When you actually take the time to study them and ascertain their strengths and weaknesses in battle—“

“Well, how about you ascertain this when you damn well lose!” Zisu tossed out her Honchkrow in sheer ire.

With the Captain of the Security Corps ordering her Honchkrow to use the strong version of Icy Wind. So, the large black avian could gather the cold snow in her beak and unleash the Icy Wind attack. That resulted in Excadrill struggling to move after the ice clung to his brown fur and metal claws. Now that the attack showed obvious signs of lowering Drill’s speed.

As Emmet cursed loudly and quickly reconfigured the mental calculations in his head. Since that there was a fair chance Excadrill might not be able to win this fight as easily as Emmet had hoped.

“Dammit. I forgot that Honchkrow could learn that move…” Emmet tsked beneath his breath, chastising himself momentarily. Before he focused back onto the fight. “…But no matter. A speed reduction will only go so far until it won’t be enough to hinder us. So, fight through it and retaliate with Rock Slide, Drill!” The former Subway Boss shouted out.

With Excadrill readily responding to the new set of orders by creating the falling rocks over Honchkrow’s flying form. The other Pokèmon was forced to quickly evade using some evasive maneuvers on Zisu’s fast commands.

Before Zisu turned to Emmet smirking and waggling her finger mockingly in his face. “Heh, nice try Twiggy. But you’re not going to beat us so easily once Raven uses Agile Style Night Slash!”

“Then be prepared to be disappointed because I hope your crow enjoys being fainted from Drill’s Iron Head!” Emmet ordered his own Excadrill to counteract.

The two powerful moves resulting in both Pokèmon clashing in a massive explosion. That brought up a burst of wind and dirt from the outdoor arena which nearly blinded the two trainers standing on the opposite sides.

As Emmet threw his arm up to protect his face instinctually. While trying to peer through the smoke and see whether Excadrill was still standing. Despite how hard it was to determine which shadowy figure was standing upright in the cloudy battlefield—

Until the air became clearer and it was soon apparent that both Pokèmon had fainted on top of each other. Which left Emmet and Zisu staring at the outcome with mild disappointment. Once both trainers withdrew their Pokèmon back into their Pokè balls.

“…Damn so we’re tied one to one then, huh.”

“Yes I suppose we are.” Emmet begrudgingly admitted, taking out another Pokè ball off his belt. “However, even with the unexpected draw I still plan on winning this battle. So, call out your next Pokèmon and let’s finish this—“

“That’s quite enough.” A voice interrupted the fighting abruptly from the entrance of the training grounds.

The newcomer’s presence causing Emmet and Zisu to turn towards the lean woman with short blue hair. After the seemingly older woman walked closer and raised a curious eyebrow at the extensive damages evident in the training area.

While Rei, Dawn, and another new person (wearing an out of place purple snow cap over his lab coat) were running up behind the newcomer. With the older man panting out of breath and bending over on his hands and knees exhausted.

“Huff—Captain please! Show some consideration and wait for us—before you—run off and leave us behind like that…” The older man panted out.

As the Captain glimpsed towards the older man with an unsympathetic gaze at his weary state. “…Laventon. Get in shape and quit whining. It’s unbefitting to see a member of my Survey Corp show clear signs of exhaustion at a mere sprint.”

“W-Well yes. You’re not wrong about that…” Laventon huffed out. “But there’s a reason why I stay in the labs and leave the surveying and more strenuous exercise to the young ones.”

“You mean because you’re lazy?”

“W-what no! It’s not laziness, Captain!”

“Then what is it exactly?”

“I-It’s well…it’s more like…physical activities aren’t my forte is all…really.”

“Ah, I see. So it’s your typical excuses like always.” The Captain concluded over Laventon’s sputtering. Before she directed her attention back towards Zisu and Emmet. “But moving along…Emmet was it?”

“…Yes?” Emmet asked cautiously.

Since he saw the Captain folding her hands behind her back and staring back at him impassively. Like the equivalent of a stone statue barely showing any emotions. “…You are approximately twenty minutes late to our meeting. And you kept me waiting for your arrival to what? Detour into some pointless battle with Captain Zisu over a wounded ego?”

“That’s not—That isn’t what happened!” Emmet stammered out mortified.

“Really? Then explain why you were late before I start deducting points—“

“What points—“

“The points that will determine whether you’re as essential to this village like Rei and Dawn claim you are.” The Captain explained blandly. “Since I already immensely dislike you for wasting my invaluable time with your tardiness.” She stated over Emmet’s apologetic wince. “And I’m all but ready to have you exiled. As you seem like nothing but an immense waste of space—“

“Hold on, Cyllene.” Zisu protested on Emmet’s behalf. “Much as I think this twig is a damn stuck up prick—“

“Oh gee thanks—“

“You’re welcome.” Zisu snorted with an eye roll. “I will say that you should at least give the idiot a chance to prove himself. Since he’s a pretty good fighter despite his messed up mentality towards Pokèmon.”

“It’s not—How many times do I have to say that statistics and calculations are not something to be frowned upon if it’s backed by scientific research?!” Emmet huffed out petulantly.

His words perking Laventon’s intrigue as the Pokèmon Professor perked his head up. “Oh? And how do you know this? Unless you’re perhaps a scientist from the future?”

“Um no. I wouldn’t say that I’m any Pokèmon research expert.” Emmet reluctantly admitted to the Professor’s delighted enthusiasm.

Rei decided to back up as he tugged Laventon’s arm to get his attention. “Yeah sorry, Professor. I don’t know what Emmet is exactly? But he doesn’t strike me as the scientist type with how well he fights.”

“Plus, Emmet seems like a stronger Pokèmon trainer than myself with how he took down that Alpha Hippowdon by himself.” Dawn chimed in.

“…Or so you claim is the case.” Cyllene muttered skeptically.

With her words setting Emmet off as he glowered at her angrily. “It’s not circumstantial if it’s true.”

“Really? Then how about you quit telling me fabricated stories and prove it.” Cyllene bluntly stated. “By going out and capturing an Alpha wandering around the Obsidian Fieldlands so you can back all this talk I keep hearing so much about.”

“Fine!” Emmet accepted the challenge readily. “But I’ll do you one better in that case. Because I intend to capture and defeat three Alpha Pokèmon—“

“Wait what?!” Rei exclaimed alarmed alongside Dawn and Laventon.

“And when I do then I’ll have you and Zisu eating both your words in no time.” Emmet avowed confidently.

With the former Subway Boss meeting Zisu and Cyllene’s doubt head on with a cocky smirk. Before the young man stormed out of the training arena towards the direction he hoped was the exit to Jubilife Village.

Since there was a lot of planning he’ll have to do to back his claims. If Emmet intended to let his actions speak for him upon succeeding in his self-appointed mission.

Chapter Text

The Obsidian Fieldlands were more barren then Emmet had expected. Upon the four of them walking up the dirt road and arriving at the Fieldlands Campsite. Where Emmet chose to walk a bit further ahead and take a look out at Aspiration Hill. That showed (atop the cresting hill) a worn traveling path traversing downward with patches of scattered tall grass. With the tall grass containing some wild Bidoof and Starly roaming about. Emmet wasn’t entirely used to seeing.

Since the rural landscape and lack of modern buildings were jarring to witness in comparison to how industrialized Unova was. Despite how outdated Jubilife Village was with all the old wooden shops and homes. Emmet mostly ignored until now considering that it wasn’t as much of a ‘reality check’ as this vast empty rural field was by comparison. That hasn’t been touched by any industrialization or civilization it seems.

As Emmet eyed the docile wild Pokèmon with some wary skepticism in case they decided to attack him. Before the twenty-seven-year-old called out his fully healed Archeops and pointed to the sky.

“…Right Arc I need you to go and survey the area of any Alpha Pokèmon…” Emmet trailed off upon noticing how Arc was thoroughly ignoring him.

With the large reptilian feathered bird keeping his back to his trainer. As Arc purposefully avoided looking at Emmet directly with a resentful glower aimed at the ground. Since it was apparent Archeops was in a foul mood over what happened during the fight against Zisu’s Luxray.

Emmet couldn’t help but wince at with partial guilt for the part he played in that fight. When he cleared his throat and stared off to the side with a petulant frown. “…Well what else would you have me do, Arc. You weren’t in any condition to continue that battle.”

“Rrree…”

“And on top of that there was no point in keeping you out if we both knew that you were going to lose the type match-up.” Emmet tried reasoning with his despondent starter. “So…try not to view it as me being hard on you, okay?”

“…Rrrree?”

“…Because I was only looking out for your best interest. If didn’t see a point in letting you faint needlessly.” Emmet reached over and gently stroked Archeop’s green and red scaled neck soothingly.

The gesture being enough of an apology for the fossilized bird to trill with some happiness at the brief affection his trainer was providing him. As Arc turned his head and nuzzled Emmet’s head affectionately as a sign of forgiveness.

Before Archeops cawed and took to the skies to do as his trainer requested. Once Arc flew off to locate the possible Alphas Emmet could track down at fight. While Emmet heard Rei politely clear his throat from behind him. With the teen giving Archeops a curious glimpse upon seeing his retreating form.

“Huh. You know…I guess Zisu was right about how you do have an Alpha on your team.”

“…Perhaps. Although I still stand by that my Archeops isn’t an alpha. Since Arc was simply revived at that size when I paid the scientists to revive the plume fossil.”

“Yes, but still! Even if that’s the case do you have data to share about your mysterious Archeops?” Professor Laventon chimed in elated. “Because I must admit I’ve never seen such a fascinating creature before in my life! And what is Archeop’s typing my good sir? Is it pure flying or a dual typing if you don’t mind me asking?” The professor asked Emmet a couple of questions all at once.

Which Emmet did his best to answer. “…Well for starters I can tell you that Archeops is a rock and flying dual type.”

“Uh huh.”

“And that it’s an ancient Pokèmon from back in the prehistoric times who was capable of hunting on both land and in the skies.”

“Oh, how very interesting! Do tell me more!” Professor Laventon took out his notebook to start jotting all this down. “You mentioned that in the present you revived Archeops from a fossil yes? Is this a singular Pokèmon or an evolution?”

“Um. Evolution. Since it evolved from Archen who is also flying and rock. And Archen can be revived from a plume fossil while is found in relic castle in Unova.”

“Incredible! Are there more of these fossils in Unova? Or is it just the plume fossil that travelers are able to find?”

“No. There’s more fossils scattered across the regions. But in Unova the other fossil you can acquire is a cover fossil that gives you a water and rock type sea turtle named Tirtouga. Although I don’t know much about its evolved form Carracoasta. Since not a lot of trainers use it in battle.” Emmet admitted honestly.

His words perking Rei and Dawn’s intrigue. As Dawn decided to chime in with her own questions. While they were waiting on Emmet’s Archeops to return.

“Wait really? But if you’re a trainer then who have you fought?”

“Well, any challenger who comes on the Battle Subway of course.” Emmet replied happily with an excited spark gleaming in his gray eyes. “Which is where only the best of the best trainers arrive to take on a fierce battle gauntlet of intense battles! As the goal is to fight as many trainers as you can in various different trains or battling styles. Before you fight against myself or Ingo as the Subway Bosses who appear at certain points during a trainer’s winning streak.”

“Huh. So…similar to the battle tower then in Sinnoh. Where strong trainers can fight in the Battle Frontier and against the Frontier heads while trying to earn battle points in their winning streak?”

“Precisely!” Emmet snapped his fingers elated at Dawn putting two and two together. “And I can appear to test your merit during the 21st battle on the double train line, the 49th battle on the super double train line, or on the 21st alongside my brother for the multi train and the 49th battle on the super multi train. Depending on which line the challenger picks and also how far they get during their battle gauntlet run.”

“Wow. That uh, sounds really intense.” Rei admitted honestly with a bit of awe in his voice. “No wonder you’re such a strong trainer then because I’ve never considered trainers could dedicate so much time into battling outside of survival. Which is what they’re doing right? Cause this sounds more like a challenge meant to be fun?” The teenager asked for clarification.

As Emmet hummed in agreement and pointed his fingers at Rei with a bright smile. “Correct! I can assure you that the Battle Subway is a fun challenge for trainers who are highly competitive and looking to improve in their battling capabilities! As there’s no need to fight for survival in Unova. When a Pokèmon journey is meant to be a right of way for children and teenagers to undertake—“

“Wait kids go out on these journeys by themselves?!” Rei blurted out shocked.

Especially when Dawn nodded her head in agreement with Emmet’s statement. “Yeah we do. Because that’s what Barry and I did back when we were twelve year old. After we received our starter Pokèmon from Professor Rowan.”

“But that…isn’t that something extremely dangerous for kids to do? Like aren’t your parents concerned for your safety if something bad happens or you get attacked by the wild Pokèmon?”

“Well, to be fair the wild Pokèmon in Unova are nowhere near as aggressive as the ones here in this Hisuian Region.” Emmet pointed out to ease Rei’s worries.

Once Emmet started stating more facts which fascinated Professor Laventon. “My word. That’s just….this is incredible to be learning so much about the future from you both! Amazing! A world where kids are able to bond and travel safely alongside Pokèmon? I just….the possibilities truly are unfathomable and yet the proof is in your existence and stories!” The professor motioned at Emmet and Dawn with his pen.

While Dawn rubbed the back of her neck in partial embarrassment. “I mean I guess so even if I can assure you I’m not special. Since every kid has done the same thing.”

“Perhaps but not every child managed to claim a champion title from Cynthia and be crowned as the new champion of Sinnoh.” Emmet pointed out.

“Oh, right. I forgot you knew about that.” Dawn muttered shyly at the earnest compliment from Emmet. “But even so…I didn’t think my exploits were that big of a deal. If I just did what all the other kids were doing at the time.”

“Well, technically not every child saved Sinnoh by thwarting Team Galactic’s plans.” Emmet mentioned to Rei and Laventon’s surprise. “And you shouldn’t sell yourself short as your Elite Four run was very impressive to watch live young Dawn! Especially when I rewatched your fight against Cynthia with immense pride for how you overcame her team and her ace Garchomp.”

“Huh? You…you studied my entire Elite Four battle? Why?”

“Because it’s what I do for every new Champion that’s announced.” Emmet waved off Dawn’s astonishment. “So, I can improve onto my own battling tactic and update myself on unique strategies that might crop up in the Battle Subway. Once you get young impressionable people that will try and imitate the “latest champion” craze going on at the time.”

“I guess but…I didn’t think anyone outside of Sinnoh would really care.” Dawn muttered pensively.

The young teenager looking like she didn’t really believe her exploits could be praised by other people outside of her home region. As Emmet merely tipped his lilly flat cap back with a raised eyebrow. Before he shrugged and turned his attention back to the sky briefly to keep an eye out for Archeops.

“Hm, well believe what you want but I’m simply stating it as facts. Since I’ll admit that Champion Cynthia is on my bucket list of trainers I would love to someday challenge myself. After I found your creative way of winning quite impressive with the team you brought into the Elite Four.”

“Yeah…I hope all my Pokèmon are doing okay without me…” Dawn lamented sadly.

With the young girl appearing down in the dumps at the painful reminder of her Sinnoh team. That was left behind in the present alongside her friends and family. Until Rei rested a comforting hand on Dawn’s shoulder and tried giving her a reassuring smile.

“…Hey I know things look bleak but you know that the professor and I will do our best to help you find a way home.”

“Absolutely, Dawn!” Professor Laventon said with an assuring nod. “And perhaps this strange Arc phone will also be key in helping you find your way back. Since you mentioned that it sends you messages, right?”

“…Well sometimes it does.” Dawn took out the silent white and gold device.

A device that was designed very strangely in Emmet’s opinion as it appeared to be based on some unknown Pokèmon he didn’t recognize. Before Dawn sighed and placed it back in her messenger bag. So, she could turn to Emmet with a question she’s been wondering for a while ever since they met the other time-traveler.

"Hey, Emmet?”

“Hm?”

“What…I never got the chance to ask you earlier but…what exactly brought you into the Hisuian Region?” Dawn started asking.

Until Emmet flinched violently at what was meant to be a seemingly harmless question. With the former Subway Boss paling considerably and shoving his hands into his pockets.

Like he really wasn’t comfortable answering whatever Dawn was asking him.

“…It’s…a personal mission I’m undertaking.”

“Oh.” Dawn eyed Emmet sympathetically with a partially guilty look flickering across her face. “Well, it’s just…if there’s anyway maybe myself or Rei and the Professor can help—“

“I highly doubt anyone can unless they can point me in the direction of wherever my missing brother is at.” Emmet bit out hollowly.

The former Subway Boss sounding so bitter and forlorn at the mere mention of his sibling. That the others chose to kindly drop the subject. Once Emmet turned away and intentionally looked ready to ignore their presence entirely.

Before Rei decided to show some mercy and change the topic. “So, um. About Captain Cyllene’s mission, do you have any idea which Alpha Pokèmon you think you’re going to catch first?”

“…Hm. A good question.” Emmet muttered thoughtfully, mulling over the options in his head. “But I probably won’t know until Arc returns. Since I’m not familiar with the wild Pokèmon located in this area.”

“Oh! Well, there is an Alpha Rapidash over by Horseshoe Plains.” Dawn mentioned helpfully.

Her words perking Emmet’s interest as he quickly did a mental calculation of Rapidash’s stats compared to his team composition and typing. “Ah. Yes. An Alpha Rapidash would be a perfect adversary to capture. Since I have several ways to weaken it and tank its fire attacks with hardly any trouble if I need to engage it in combat.”

“Really? That’s great! So you can catch it and then we can head back and present it to Captain Cyllene—“

“Nope. I can’t return until I capture three Alpha Pokèmon as promised.” Emmet interrupted Rei.

His bold declaration leaving Rei befuddled by the other’s stubborn insistence. As the teenager looked at Emmet like he had completely lost his mind. Which is how Dawn felt as well given her own dubious expression mirroring Rei’s as well.

“But…the Captain only said to catch one Alpha. So why…”

“Why insist on capturing three?” Emmet finished Rei’s inquiry while holding up his fingers to count off his reasons. “Well, first I have to apologize to your Captain for being late to our meeting. After I inadvertently wasted her invaluable time by getting sidetracked in my fight against Zisu.”

“Yeah, um. Can you clarify why you were late exactly? Cause Dawn and I literally pointed to the building you needed to go to after you got your new outfit from Miss. Anthe—“

“I uh…clearly didn’t see it when I was looking for the headquarters.”

“What? But it was right there in front of you—“

“Well, I missed it and we’re moving on!” Emmet hastily changed the topic. “Because the second reason why I want to capture three Alphas is to prove myself to the doubters that are your Captains. Since they presented me with a challenge and I see no reason as to why I can’t overachieve to prove them wrong.”

“…Okay. I guess that makes sense.” Rei reluctantly agreed with Emmet’s logic. “But are those your only two reasons then? Or did you have a third reason for wanting to stay out here longer than necessary?”

‘I do but it’s more like I want a distraction that doesn’t require me to damn well think about Ingo for a bit longer.’ Emmet thought sadly.

Even though that third reason was something Emmet didn’t want to admit out loud to the others. As the former Subway Boss merely hummed pensively and dropped the discussion entirely.

Before he noticed Arc thankfully flying back in the distance. Since the starter’s return meant Emmet could stop the tedious small talk and focus on the mission at hand.

Chapter Text

“Right, so from what I see here,” Emmet pulled out the illustrated map he borrowed from Rei. After his Archeops returned and was happily eating the Oran Berry Dawn gave him as a reward for succeeding in his scouting mission. “The Horseshoe Plains is in the southwest area of the Obsidian Fieldlands—”

“…Emmet you’re um. Holding the map upside down.” Dawn kindly interjected, turning the map upright so the former Subway Boss was viewing it properly.

While Rei was absently scratching the back of his head befuddled by what transpired. As the teenager looked over at the fossilized reptilian bird for clarification. Who seemed unsurprised by Emmet’s incorrect assumptions. When he cawed flatly and nodded his head in the opposite direction of what his trainer said. That caused Emmet to flush in mortification as he tried to remedy his hilarious yet grievous blunder.

“Of course, I was!” Emmet hastily folded the map. “Because you see that was a test to determine how knowledgeable you survey people were. If I’m to entrust you with directing us around the Obsidian Plains closer to nightfall.”

“Okay? But I don’t know how Dawn or I would prevent you from walking straight off a cliff. If you’re insistent on tumbling face first down the rock formation behind us.” Rei snickered alongside Archeop’s amused trilling.

Emmet didn’t appreciate as he pettily swatted Rei’s red cap off his head. Before he recalled Arc back into his Poké ball. “You would do so by being polite teenagers instead of acting like snarky wise asses. And if you’re done mocking me then I suggest you start making yourselves useful by handing me some Poké balls I’ll need to catch this Rapidash—”

“Wait. Why should we give you Poké balls when we have the materials needed to craft them?” Rei pointed out, picking up his fallen cap.

As Emmet paused and looked at the crafting material Rei took out of his satchel. “…Craft what now?”

“The Poké balls of course. The ones that you’ll need to us to catch the wild Alpha?”

“Yes but...first why would I make them out of…fruit, wood, and stone?” Emmet read off the recipe with skepticism laced in his voice. “And second why make them in the first place if we can purchase them from a store?”

“Well, mainly because money doesn’t grow on trees my good man.” Professor Laventon chimed in helpfully in response to Emmet’s evident confusion. “Which is why survey corp members find it much more cost effective to make the items themselves. Given how often the Pokémon will break out—”

“Yeah, no shit the Pokémon will easily break out of this trash. If you’re simply mashing a bunch of random ingredients together in hopes that the finished product will be barely functional.”

“Well, how else would you suggest we make a Poké ball—” Rei glowered at Emmet’s critical demeanor.

Before the former Subway Boss pulled one of the modern Poké balls off his belt. That contained his miniaturized and sleeping Durant. Who was visible in the transparent opaque metal comprising of the red and white Poké ball.

“By using much sturdier metal to ensure the Pokémon can’t break out so easily. Like the one that I have here—"

“My word!” Professor Laventon exclaimed with open astonishment. As the older man scurried over with brimming excitement at seeing the modernized Poké ball design up close. “So, this is what a Poké ball will look like in the future. How simply extraordinary to see my theories being proven right! After I had speculated the means in which Pokémon can reduce their size upon capture by becoming Pocket Monsters…”

“Erm. Yes, well. Fascinating as this all is, can we focus back on the matter at hand? Regarding the flimsy fruit ball, that hopefully isn’t going to shatter upon impact?” Emmet leaned back and pulled the Poké ball out of Laventon’s reach.

While Dawn pulled out ten Great Balls, she crafted to give the former Subway Boss. “Sure, but this fruit ball is all you have to work with. So, I suggest you make do with you got and practice your throws. If you don’t want to waste the limited supply we have available—“

“Please. Tossing a Poké ball is child’s play.” Emmet scrutinized the hollowed out apricot dubiously. Before he tucked it away in Ingo’s worn messenger bag. “And I shall prove it in but a moment now that I’m ready to go track down this Alpha.”

“You mean by walking southwest to find it right?” Rei hollered at Emmet’s retreating back with a wryly smirk.

The teenager continuing to tease Emmet about how the former Subway Boss could botch reading a map of all things. If he’s from a future where the technology clearly is ‘far superior to the fruit balls they’re relying on to catch Pokémon with’. As Emmet proceeded to ignore Rei until he spotted the wild Ponyta roaming the plains a few feet away.

Where the small fire horses were galloping around them with friendly neighs. Before some of them appeared to be trying to herd the small group of humans away from the tall rock formation within the center of the fields.

That had their prime target in sight of being one very tall and enormous Alpha Rapidash.

“…Right so here’s what I’m thinking.” Emmet started strategizing upon noticing how calm the Alpha Rapidash was around the small Ponytas. “…Does anyone here have a Ponyta handy? Because we can use that as a distraction so I can sneak up on the Alpha to catch it.”

“Wait. You’re not planning on fighting it?” Rei blurted out surprised.

His words causing Emmet to turn around with raised eyebrow. Like the teenager was the one talking complete nonsense instead of it being the other way around.

“Of course not!” Emmet hissed out, gesturing to the aggressive wild Pokémon. “I have three of these things I need to capture and fighting all of them would be nothing but a fool’s errand.”

“Yeah, but you don’t seem like the type to make the smart decision…” Rei replied uncertain.

Until Emmet slammed Rei’s cap down on his head in retaliation. As the former Subway Boss rolled his eyes and took out the Great Ball.

“Keep it up and I’ll use your annoyance for something more beneficial like bait, kid.”

“Oh, like you’re one to talk—”

“Boys! How about we quit the petty bickering and move on?” Dawn sternly chastised them both. While she removed a Poké ball off her belt. “Since I have a Ponyta who can help with Emmet’s plan. If the Alpha doesn’t um…react alarmed to his presence that is.”

“Hah? But why on earth would the Rapidash not accept the little one as part of the herd?” Professor Laventon eyed Dawn’s Poké ball inquisitively.

Until Dawn answered Laventon’s question by sending out her Ponyta. Who emerged out of the Poké ball with blue flames flickering erratically on his mane and tail—

Rei could only stare at in sheer awe at how different Dawn’s Pontya looked by comparison to the wild ones eying the newcomer nervously. “Wha…what on earth…Is that actually a Ponyta?!”

“Yes, Captain is most certainly a Ponyta, Rei,” Dawn huffed in her anxious Pontya’s defense. “And just because he’s different doesn’t mean we should ostracize him. Since it’s not Captain’s fault that he the odd one out.”

“True however I’ve never seen a Ponyta possessing blue flames…and given how unique this one is compared to the others—”

“Oh, it’s a shiny Pokémon.” Emmet interjected over Laventon’s thoughtful musings, looking at Dawn’s Ponyta’s mildly impressed. “I only heard rumors about Pokémon that are aesthetically a different coloring from their normal counterparts. But to actually see one in person is quite impressive. What nature is this little one?”

“Huh? Oh, it’s um. Lonely Nature I think.” Dawn peered down at her Arc Phone. Like the hidden information was stored in her device.

While Emmet mulled over the information Dawn provided. “Lonely nature. Okay. So, decreased defense but increased attack. That’s not terrible given how awful Rapidash’s defenses are anyway…”

“Uh, wait.” Rei interrupted. “What nonsense are you babbling about now—”

“Natures of course. Or specifically the Pokémon genetics that influence how certain stats will grow which can’t be altered alongside the ability that they’re born with.”

“Oh! Now isn’t that intriguing!” Professor Laventon scrambled to take out his leather-bound notebook. “A future where we’re capable of analyzing a Pokémon’s genetics so we can see the hidden influences of what determines a Pokémon’s personality. And understand why some are stronger than others in different areas such as offensive and defensive power—”

“Yes, yes that’s all very fascinating but we can discuss it another time.” Emmet waved off Laventon’s endless stream of inquiries.

So, he could direct his attention to Dawn’s shy Ponyta eying the wild herd with sad, quiet neighs. Like the little one wanted to join the others who were staring at his presence with uneasy cries of their own.

Before Emmet knelt next to the skittish blue Pontya and tentatively patted his back. “There, there Captain was it?”

“Bbrr.”

“Right. Well, Captain. Chin up because I have a very important task, I need your help with.” Emmet steered the little Ponyta’s head towards the giant Alpha Rapidash. “That involves you distracting the Rapidash while I sneak up behind it.”

“Rree…” The little blue Ponyta neighed anxiously, eying Emmet like he thought the human was reckless and insane.

Until Dawn gently patted Captain’s side to grab his attention with a comforting smile. “Captain I know it doesn’t sound safe.”

“Bbrrr!”

“But! Emmet knows what’s he doing…for the most part.” Dawn said with only partial confidence. As she ignored Emmet’s annoyed glower towards her apparent doubt. “So, if you can do your job then we’ll go and do ours, okay? And if all goes well then you won’t have to do anything aside from play with the other Ponytas.”

“Precisely my little star! And we have the upmost faith that you can do this!”

“So, just don’t antagonize the Alpha into a fight and you should be fine.” Rei added in his own assurances alongside Professor Laventon.

With Captain staring at the humans in evident concern. Since the Ponyta clearly didn’t share their sentiments about the plan being…a good one. Before the blue Ponyta shook his head and tentatively trotted out into the open fields. Where he shyly kicked his hooves and saw the wide berth the other wild Pontyas were giving him.

Until the Alpha Rapidash narrowed its eyes at the newcomer and flared its nostrils cautiously. So, it could gallantly trot over and approach the blue Ponyta walking backwards with scared squeals—

Right as the Great Ball went soaring way over the Alpha’s head. As Emmet was cursing beneath his breath from where he was crouched in the grass.

While Rei smacked his forehead and poked his head out from behind the rock formation. “Dude, what are you doing? You had a clear shot of it, and you missed?!”

“I—These stupid fruit balls are lighter than the Poké balls I’m used to throwing!”

“Oh, and that’s the excuse you’re going to use as to why you have a terrible aim—”

“Guys shut up!” Dawn hissed at Emmet and Rei.

The young teenager eying the Alpha Rapidash worriedly. Now that the Alpha was on full alert and looking for which direction the object was thrown. As the giant Rapidash scoured the area and walked right by the tall grass where Emmet was hiding—

Before Emmet dodge rolled out of the grass and struck the Alpha Rapidash with a Great Ball from behind.

“Hah! Take that!” Emmet watched proudly as the startled Alpha was drawn into the Great Ball with a successful secret back strike technique.

With the object shaking wildly in the air that was the usual indicator the Pokémon was going to burst out. Until to Dawn and Rei’s surprise the Great Ball made a firework popping-like sound when it landed on the ground.

As Emmet ran over and picked up the successful capture. With a huge, elated grin he couldn’t contain when he turned to the shy Ponyta and patted his head affectionately.

“Yes! Excellent job, Captain! Thanks to you our plan worked, and I have successfully subdued my very first Alpha!”

“Yeah, by sheer dumb luck!” Rei blurted out from the hiding place he abandoned.

The survey scout member still staring at the successful capture in sheer disbelief. While a highly smug Emmet tucked the Great Ball into the brown messenger bag and pulled out Rei’s borrowed map.

“Luck has nothing to do with it. If this was due to my flawless skills and talents as the best trainer in Unova.”

“You mean before or after you lobbed the ‘fruit ball’ twenty feet above your intended target—”

“That was an oversight and a matter of adjusting to how these stupid flimsy fruits work—”

“Which was still way off the mark from hitting something right in front of you—”

“Well, I still caught it didn’t I?” Emmet sniffed haughtily, looking at the map. “And since Arc mentioned that there were more Alphas in the northeastern quadrant—”

“Oh, look you finally learned how to read a map properly—”

“We’ll head there next so I can capture my next Alpha.” Emmet folded the map and started walking off—

—In the complete opposite direction of what he just said.

As his actions left Dawn staring at him in disbelief alongside Rei, Captain, and Professor Laventon. Who weren’t sure what to make of Emmet’s terrible directional sense he seemed completely oblivious about.

“Um. Emmet? The Sandgems Flats are that way.” Dawn pointed in the correct direction.

So, Emmet could spin around mid-step and pull down his white lilly cap to hide his mortified red face. “Y-Yes. I knew that. Clearly. Since that was but another test to determine how well you know the area.”

“…Right. And is that what you like telling yourself to compensate for your awful sense of direction?” Rei stated incredulously.

With the three humans, plus Captain the Pontya and Arc the Archeops present to lead the way, trekking cautiously through the Obsidian Fieldlands. That was being bathed in the orange and pink hues of the vivid sunset. Which was setting in the distance behind the majestic mountain ranges once the sky was steadily transitioning into nightfall.

As the clear night sky surprised Emmet with how he could see the stars and the moon shining brightly overhead. Since he’s so used to Unova’s artificial lights covering the city in a bright luminescent glow. He nearly forgot what a natural night sky would look like. And given how breath taking gorgeous the night sky was out here in the Obsidian Fieldlands, Emmet couldn’t help but see if he could potentially spot any cool constellations—

Before Rei abruptly yanked Emmet away from an incoming attack. As the survey corp member called out his partner Pikachu. Who readily used Thundershock and growled at the aggressive Drifloon appearing in the area.

“Um. How about you save the sight seeing for when we’re not in danger of getting attacked out in the open?” Rei ordered his Pikachu to use Electro Ball on the next incoming Drifloon.

While Emmet winced apologetically and motioned for his Archeops to Rock Slide the remaining Drifloon that were knocked unconscious. “Ah. Yes, good point. And I um. Appreciate the back-up and forethought you showed…”

“To make sure you didn’t wind up getting your soul devoured?” Rei jested lightly.

Over Emmet’s amused snorts as the twenty-seven-year-old rolled his eyes. “Unlikely since Drifloon are only known to kidnap children if you read up on their Pokèdex entry.”

“True but with how childish you act—”

“Never mind. I am rescinding my thank you from earlier, you brat.” Emmet glowered at Rei’s amused snickering.

With the former Subway Boss easily forcing the aggressive Shinx and Drifloon to flee the area. Once his Archeops intentionally clicked his pointed teeth in a threatening manner to scare them away. So, the group could eventually arrive at a swallow brook connecting to the opposite mainland. That was labeled as the Sandgem Flats.

Where the group noticed the enormous, red-eyed glowing Snorlax guarding the other side. As the Alpha was waddling about and scratching its large belly with a tired yawn.

While Dawn’s Ponyta was neighing nervously away from the swallow stream where the others were hiding behind the rock formations. Since Emmet’s Archeops was standing at the ready for when his trainer ordered him to attack. Next to Rei’s Pikachu who was sparking and looking ready to lunge straight at the much stronger Alpha Pokémon.

Until Emmet lifted his hands to keep the other Pokémon at bay. Once he noticed the Alpha turning away from them to walk off in the opposite direction. Emmet took as the opening he needed to start sneaking out of their hiding spot.

“Right. So, let’s repeat what I did last time and catch it unaware.” Emmet decided when he started tiptoeing out.

Before he suddenly felt a heavier Poké ball being placed into his hand. As Rei was handing Emmet what looked like a black stylized Poké ball.

“Wait. If you’re going to catch it then use that to increase your odds. Since a Heavy Ball is a guaranteed catch on Pokémon who weight the equivalent of a mountain or less—”

“Rei those heavy balls are hard to throw!” Dawn protested. “And the shorter range means Emmet will have to practically be a few feet behind it if he wants to make sure it hits—”

“It’ll hit.” Rei waved off Dawn’s fussy remarks, looking over at Emmet confidently. “And the risk is well worth it as that will catch the Snorlax without any problems.”

“Hm. Well in that case…” Emmet clenched the Heavy Ball in his hand tightly.

The former Subway Boss choosing to ignore Dawn’s objections towards what she felt was a terrible idea. As Emmet used the rushing water to hide his quiet footsteps. So, he could cautiously approach the oblivious Alpha Snorlax that still hasn’t turned around yet. When it released another loud yawn—

Right as Emmet’s phone alarm went off with a loud blaring train whistle. That caused the young man to curse loudly. Since the alarm effectively alerted the aggressive Snorlax to his presence. Once Emmet tossed out his Eelektross and was knocked off his feet from the fierce bellowing roar.

“Dammit! Of all the stupid bullshit to happen—Screw it. Moray use Thunder Wave to paralyze it and Arc use Aerial Ace to weaken it!” Emmet quickly ordered his partner Pokémon.

With the Eelektross successfully managing to pull off the Thunder Wave. At the same time Archeops took a flying leap into the air. So, he could fly over and strike the enraged Alpha with a strong Aerial Ace attack. That caused the Alpha Snorlax to stumble back in pain. Before it snarled and slammed its entire body into the ground to hit the Eelektross with a High Horsepower—

Which did nothing against Eelektross’ Levitate ability. Since the electic eel-like creature hovered over the ground unfazed by the attack.

While Laventon was taking extensive notes on from where he was situated behind their newest hiding spot. “Amazing! Are these the abilities you were mentioning earlier with Captain Zisu? Because I didn’t know that there was one which could grant Pokèmon full immunities against certain elemental types!”

“Yes, there are but we can discuss this after I get us out of harm’s way!” Emmet shouted over the Alpha Snorlax’ angry screams.

Especially when the Heavy Ball he threw hit the ground a few feet in front of the Alpha because he wasn’t close enough to his target. As Emmet cursed and quickly thrusted his empty out towards Rei and Dawn. Who were standing nearby with their own Pokémon out in case Emmet needed help.

“Quick hand me more of those blasted Heavy Balls I can chuck at the Alpha!”

“Sure, but we only have three of them left!” Rei warned him after tossing the remaining three he had available.

With one of them hitting Emmet’s foot as the older man yelped and glowered at the apologetic teen. “You—I said hand them over and you instead opt to throw them at me?!”

“Well, what else did you expect if I’m not in the mood to be squished to death by that Alpha Snorlax!”

“What I expect is for you to listen to a simple set of instructions so that I don’t wind up injured in the process of your reckless stunts! And there’s no need to be alarmed since I have this.” Emmet turned around and dodged rolled straight at the Alpha Pokémon.

So, he could successfully hit it with the second Heavy Ball up close. As the startled Alpha was drawn into the Heavy Ball and shook erratically for a few minutes. Before it popped back out with another furious roar—

—Right as Emmet threw the third Heavy Ball and recaptured it yet again. Until the Heavy Ball went still, and they all heard the firework like pop to indicate a successful capture.

That indicated it was safe enough for Emmet to pick up with a cocky smirk. “And that is now the second Alpha I have successfully caught, oh yee of little faith.”

“…Yeah well. Luck wins out again I suppose.” Rei begrudgingly admitted in light of Emmet’s successful capture.

Where Emmet’s three companions emerged out from their hiding spot to cross the shallow brook the Alpha Snorlax was guarding. As Laventon shook the water off his boots and surveyed the new area with a bright smile.

“My word! So, this is a new area we have yet to explore in the Obsidian Fieldlands! How splendid. I can’t wait to see what new Pokémon reside over here.”

“You mean before or after they’re going to try and kill us?” Rei looked around cautiously after he whistled sharply for his Pikachu to stop wandering off.

While Dawn recalled her blue flamed Ponyta back into his Poké ball. “Well, we won’t know until we explore further. However...about that alarm that went off just now…” The young teenager turned to the embarrassed Emmet.

Who swiped his alarm off with a sheepish wince. “Ah...well see that’s a ‘dinner’ alarm I have set to go off everyday to remind me to eat.”

“Uh huh...and why didn’t you eat before we left to go to the Obsidian Fieldlands?”

“….Because I didn’t think the meal would be important to have?” Emmet feebly replied.

With the former Subway Boss being well aware that his excuse did nothing to impress Dawn who was staring at him blankly. Like she wasn’t sure what to make of Emmet’s odd behavior.

Before the fifteen-year-old sighed and motioned for the group to take a break. As she took an apple out of of satchel and shoved it into Emmet’s empty hands. Since Dawn had no intention of letting them waltz off into unknown territory. Until Emmet at least ate something to ensure he wouldn’t fall over or pass out from hunger.

Chapter Text

The apple Dawn gave Emmet tasted like the equivalent of dirt in the younger man’s mouth. Especially when he was eating it merely for the sake of stuffing something down his throat. Since rationally he knew Dawn was right about how he should eat something. Despite how unappetizing dinner was when all it reminded him was Ingo’s disappearance and—

Well. There’s a reason why Emmet really doesn’t want to be alone with his thoughts right now. The former Subway Boss ruminated sadly.

With the twenty-seven-year-old finishing off the apple in complete disinterest. Before he whistled for Arc to catch the remains in his mouth. So, his starter could enjoy the fruit in Emmet’s stead.

As Emmet hopped off the rock, he was sitting on to dust off his dirtied white lily kimono. Before he looked over at where Laventon was scribbling furiously in his leatherbound journal from where he was sitting next to Dawn and Rei. Who were finishing up their own snacks they were sharing with a Dewott and Pikachu. With the Dewott surprising Emmet greatly considering how he didn’t anticipate seeing any Unova Pokèmon in the past.

“Huh. So, is Dewott the only Unova Pokèmon in Hisui?” Emmet asked curiously.

While Dawn mulled over Emmet’s question after giving her Dewott an Oran Berry. He was happily munching on alongside Rei’s Pikachu.

“Hm. You know what? So, far I think Samurai is? But there’s been a lot of Pokèmon I’ve seen so far that I haven’t recognized.” The fifteen-year-old pulled out her thick Pokèdex book.

She then handed over to Emmet who started flipping through the pages. While muttering interesting tidbits beneath his breath that piqued the intrigue of the three survey corp members.

“…Sinnoh, Sinnoh, Hoenn, Kanto, Johto, Sinnoh, Kanto…”

“Wait you recognize all those Pokèmon?” Rei asked Emmet surprised.

Right as Emmet handed the equally astonished Dawn back the worn Pokèdex book. “Well, not all of them specifically. But off the top of my head, I can at least remember where the majority originate from.”

“Really? And is that from this weird Subway Battle thing that you did back home?”

“No. It’s from the time and dedication I took out of my day to study the Pokèmon documented in the other regions.” Emmet explained factually. “Since knowledge is but a resource that should be taken advantage of. If you don’t limit yourself to remembering the Pokèmon that only reside in your home region.”

“Yes, but the amount of time you’d need to study all those different Pokèmon—You really know all of them by memory alone?!” Dawn blurted out shocked.

Only for Emmet to shrug impassively at the teen’s awed expressions. “It’s not as impressive as it sounds. But yes. I retained the basic knowledge, so I have some idea as to what Pokèmon you found so far. However, if you’re going to ask for more detailed intel like move sets and individual stats then that will be more difficult to recall. Since most trainers I fight don’t use some of these weaker Pokèmon in their Battle Subway challenges.”

“Perhaps but who would have thought you’d be quite the scholar my good man!” Professor Laventon complimented Emmet kindly. “Since I’m impressed by how much I’m learning from your Pokèmon expertise. Even if you specialize in Pokèmon battling specifically.”

“Ah. Well, Ingo always did say I was a bit of a bookworm when it comes to learning.” Emmet admitted sheepishly.

The twenty-seven-year-old unused to hearing people praise him for things outside of his battling skills. Since that was normally only something Ingo did whenever he wasn’t teasing Emmet about how he was a ‘genuis with low wisdom’. As Ingo was the only one who could bring Emmet’s inflated ego down to earth and—

Well. That reminder was something which hurt to think about. Emmet shook his head frustrated.

With the former Subway Boss clenching his fists at his side and gritting his teeth. Like sheer willpower would be enough to ensure he didn’t have a breakdown in front of strangers. Who were eyeing him with concern that reminded Emmet too much of the pity he got back in Unova—

That Emmet decided to immediately squash down by stalking past the survey corp members. So, he could gesture for his worried Archeops to follow him.

As Emmet glimpsed at the others over his shoulder with an impatient scowl. “…Right. I think we wasted enough time on this unneeded break. So, how about we get going to find that third Alpha.”

“...Sure, we can go ahead and do that.” Dawn reluctantly conceded with a polite nod.

The young teen motioning for Rei to drop the subject. When it looked like her colleague was prepared to ask Emmet what’s wrong. Or why Emmet was suddenly acting like a jerk for what seemed like no damn reason. Until Dawn mouthed at Rei for the two of them to talk more about it later.

Once the small group resumed hiking through the unexplored Sandgem Area. So, Emmet could order his Archeops to scare off the agitated wild Luxrays and Luxio roaming about.

Since by this point the former Subway Boss was in no mood to engage in any tedious fights that would waste their time trying to find this third Alpha. Arc kept insisting was in this direction with how adamantly the large reptilian fossilized feathered bird was growling at the nearby danger—

Until the looming threat suddenly struck them in their blind spot with a Psychic attack that slammed Arc into the nearby rock formations. As Emmet spun around and saw the Alpha Alakazam floating nearby. Before the powerful psychic type started spinning his spoons and charging what looked to be a strong style Calm Mind—

“Shit! Everyone find some cover and stay back!” Emmet warned the distressed survey corp members.

The young man using this time to withdraw his fainted Archeops. So, he could immediately send out Excadrill to take Arc’s place. Now that Emmet was going to have to monitor the special attack and defensive boost. The Alpha Alakazam received from the Calm Mind that would be most problematic to work around during this fight.

“Drill charge in and use Aerial Ace to weaken that Alakazam!” Emmet mentally calculated the damage in his head.

With the former Subway Boss figuring that the Aerial Ace would be enough to weaken Alpha Alakazam. Due to how awful its defenses were and how Calm Mind only boosted its special defense—

Until Excadrill’s Aerial Ace hardly did any damage to the Alpha Alakazam. Who then countered by using an Agile Style Recover. Right as it struck back and slammed Excadrill into some trees with another strong Psychic attack—

“What in Zekrom’s name—why did that do so little?!” Emmet stood there alarmed by the failed outcome.

Before Dawn ran over and tugged at Emmet’s arm to grab his attention. “Here. There’s a message here on my Arc Phone that you might want to read. About how moves in Hisui—”

“…Work differently then what I might expect in the present day.” Emmet muttered irately at the ominous message.

The warning forcing Emmet to revise his strategy. Now that he realized Excadrill was going to faint to the next Psychic attack. Despite his best attempt to weaken the Alpha Alakazam with an Iron Head before the metal ground type was fainted.

Since Excadrill passing out was what prompted Emmet to call out his Haxorus enter the battle. While ordering him to go straight on the offensive once the Alpha Alakazam used another Agile Style Recover.

“Axe! Attack the Alpha directly and use Dragon Claw!” Emmet pointed at their enraged adversary.

With the former Subway Boss anxiously watching as his dragon lunged straight at the aggressive Alpha Pokémon. That turned around and screamed at the elongated claws slicing into its’ arms.

Before the Alpha retaliated and struck back with a strong pink crescent burst ofpsychic energy that looked to be Psycho Cut—

“You—why the hell do you have a physical Psychic move?!” Emmet glowered at the Alpha Alakazam in sheer frustration. “You have one of the highest special attacks and intellect amongst all the other Pokémon. And you somehow thought having a physical type psychic move was a good idea?!”

“Are you out of your mind—why are you lecturing the Pokémon on how to kill us?!” Rei shouted over the ongoing fight.

While Emmet spun around and pursed his lips unhappily. “Because! If we’re going to have our lives endangered, then I’d rather the Pokémon at least utilize its stats properly. So, it can prove it’s not dumber than a rock. If it’s going to insist that it has any offensive power with its pitiful base 50 attack stat—”

“Well that weak base whatever is still doing plenty of damage regardless of how you look at it!” Rei pointed out horrified at how quickly Emmet’s Haxorus fell to the second Psycho Cut.

Now that his next downed Pokèmon left the former Subway Boss with only two team members remaining in his arsenal. As Emmet quickly called out his last two Pokémon; being Eelektross and Durant.

While Dawn was anxiously looking at the Alpha Alakazam terrified and tugging desperately at Emmet’s arm. “Emmet! Call off the fight and let’s find another Alpha—”

“No! I-I got this.” Emmet gritted his teeth. “I’ll end this quickly and have it captured in no time—”

“Before or after it kills us?!” Dawn smacked his arm angrily, gesturing to the danger Professor Laventon and Rei were in. After the third Psycho Cut nearly toppled over the rock formation where her friends were hiding. “Because this thing is clearly too strong for us to handle, and I won’t stand by and watch us get killed due to your dumb stupid pride—”

“It’s not pride if I can’t afford to fail!” Emmet snapped at Dawn, looking lost and uncertain at the impending threat looming overhead. Like it wasn’t the only thing starting to overwhelm him. “And if I can’t do this then it means—It means that I’ll won’t be strong enough to save my brother.”

“Emmet, what are you—”

“So, let me do this!” Emmet wrenched his arm out of Dawn’s trembling grasp. “And just give me the damn Great Balls I’ll need to start tossing at this thing. Because like hell am I going to lose here.” The twenty-seven-year-old promised with sheer determination.

Particular when he used this time to get his head back into the game. So that Eelektross could use Thunder Wave to paralyze the Alpha alongside Ant’s Rock Slide which helped to secure the para-flinch. So, the Pokèmon could provide Emmet with the opportunity to grab the Great Ball out of Dawn’s hand and throw it at the Alpha Alakazam—

—Right as it then broke out on the first shake. That prompted the furious Alpha to roar and receive an offensive and defensive boost in its enraged state. With the stat boosts being more problematic once the Alpha Alakazam fainted his Durant and Emmet was only left with his Eelektross as his last Pokémon. Unless Emmet could somehow revive his remaining team members if he stalled and let Moray faint—

Before his gloved hand brushed against the sixth Poké ball he had latched onto his belt. That lit up with a hot temperature Emmet didn’t anticipate. When the young man hissed at the sudden heat and glared down at—

Ingo’s Chandelure glowering defiantly back at him from within her Poké ball.

Shit. Of all the Pokémon he had left…why did Emmet forget about Chandelure. The former Subway Boss lamented miserably.

With the twenty-seven-year-old hating the other Pokémon’s presence. That served as a painful reminder he didn’t want to think about. Considering how Chandelure shared too much of her personality traits from Ingo. After she stubbornly forced her way out of the confines in her Poké ball. So, she could flare her blue-purple flames out and screeched at the Alpha Pokémon. She struck at relentlessly with a well-timed Shadow Ball and—

…Why…

…Why couldn’t he do anything right on his own? Emmet ruminated resentfully.

With the former Subway Boss standing there feeling defeated and ashamed. Once Ingo’s Chandelure successfully weakened the Alpha Alakazam. As Dawn—

Dawn who was originally against them continuing the dangerous fight. Who clearly, despite her Champion rank status, possessed a Pokémon team that was far more inexperienced with fighting. Was the same teenager who boldly ran straight into the line of fire, over Laventon and Rei’s alarmed shouts, so she could order her weak Dewott to use Aqua Jet against the enraged Alpha.

A tactic that provided Dawn with the opening she needed to then dodge roll behind the startled psychic type and throw the Great Ball she had handy. Which drew the Alpha into the Great Ball that shook wildly in the air for a bit. Before the Alpha screeched and broke out—

Just so Dawn could chuck two more at it with a lot of anger behind each throw.

“Will. You. Stay. In. The. Damn. Ball already?!” Dawn snapped at the Alpha struggling to get free from its trapped confides.

With the fifteen-year-old grabbing another Great Ball in her hands. That she was more than ready to yeet at the Alpha in case it broke out yet again. Like the Great Ball was an armed weapon to fight back against the highly aggressive Pokémon trying to hurt them.

Until the Great Ball, bouncing wildly in the air, finally settled down utterly still. To indicate that the capture was a success and the team had now acquired their three Alpha Pokémon as promised.

Chapter Text

It never ceased to amaze Emmet how expressive Chandelure could be as a sentient chandelier. Especially when Shadow’s half-lidded glowing yellow eyes were enough to convey the disappointment she felt towards Emmet’s piss poor decision making. As Shadow was floating in front of him outside the entrance to Jubilife Village. Where Emmet chose to linger behind and collect his thoughts. After he told Dawn, Rei, and Professor Laventon to go on ahead. So, they could start the meeting with Captain Cyllene without him.

Now that the fight against the Alpha Alakazam kept replaying on a continuous loop in Emmet’s mind. With all his mistakes standing out prominently and bashing him over the head repeatedly. While Emmet envisioned imaginary Ingo asking what the hell, he was thinking acting so reckless and dumb—

Like Chandelure was doing right now in Ingo’s place. When Shadow’s blue-purple flames flared up in response to her irritated huff. Since the Pokèmon was wearing an expression that caused Emmet to flinch guiltily at the silent accusations. He could easily discern without being a certified Pokèmon Professor or expert.

“…You know that you’re only beating a dead Rapidash by telling me shit I’m already aware of.”

“Yowwshh.”

“And that technically! We still emerged victorious in that fight if the Alpha was successfully caught, and no one wound up getting hurt.”

“Fwiisssshh…”

“…So, it’s not like I didn’t have the situation under control…” Emmet squirmed uncomfortably beneath Chandelure’s judgmental stare.

With Chandelure’s flat incredulous look making it clear that she wasn’t buying the former Subway Boss’ feeble defense. As the fire ghost type sighed wearily and tried floating closer to Emmet’s shaking form—

Until Emmet suddenly jerked away from Chandelure and gritted his teeth angrily. “I don’t need your pity, Shadow! Especially when you’re only pretending to care about me on Ingo’s behalf.”

“….Brrwwwaa….”

“And if you hadn’t acted so rashly, then you would have seen how I could have won that fight!” Emmet tugged at his short white hair. “So stop assuming that I need your help. Because I’m not Ingo, dammit. And I don’t—I never wanted—“

‘To have you stick around.’ Emmet clenched his eyes shut. So, he wouldn’t see Chandelure’s diminishing blue-purple flames.

Especially when those flickering weak embers were the reason why Elesa called Emmet frantically on that one fateful evening. When she bluntly told him that Shadow was might starve herself from depression and guilt. Because of how much the sentient chandelier missed Ingo and felt like she was bring punished for her inability to protect her trainer.

When the actual cold, harsh reality was that it was entirely Emmet’s fault. Since he couldn’t be there for Ingo’s Pokèmon emotionally. Despite his best attempts to do so and—

And maybe—

Maybe if he were a more competent trainer then Emmet wouldn’t have felt like a complete failure. After he called Elesa in utter defeat and asked if she could take care of Ingo’s team temporarily. Since it became apparent that Emmet wasn’t in a fit state to be a caretaker for anyone at this point. Let along Ingo’s Pokèmon if he could barely take care of his himself or his own team empathically and financially.

And with how Emmet was preparing to leave Unova anyway…Because he couldn’t sit around and do nothing while Ingo was still missing. If he had the ability to simply quit his Battle Subway job and leave—

Despite how Elesa pleaded with Emmet to stay. Since he was only hurting himself by outright remaining in denial if the International Police declared Ingo deceased—

Well. Maybe it did make him a selfish person for shutting everyone out. But if it did then so be it. Now that he’s on the path of no return. While Emmet left Ingo’s team to be well-taken care of in much more capable hands then his own incompetent ones.

As Emmet felt his anger steadily dissipate from the cruel reminder of his own ineptitude. Before he wearily looked over and noticed how despondent Chandelure was swaying in the gentle breeze. Since Emmet was stuck with Shadow accompanying him temporarily until further notice. Despite how much he didn’t want to think about the painful reminders Shadow’s presence brought about.

Once he pulled the white lilly cap down over his pale white eyes. So, he could hide the frustrated tears that were trying to trickle down his face. Before Emmet reluctantly stroked Shadow’s transparent purple head sadly. So, he could grab her attention and hear Chandelure’s soft warbling cry.

A cry that only served to break Emmet’s heart even further for his inability to be a better trainer for Shadow. Like Ingo would have wanted him to be for his starter Pokèmon.

“Shadow…I’m sorry that I can’t be more like Ingo and show you the care and compassion you deserve.”

“Pppwwissh…”

“But…these are the cards that we’ve been dealt. So, we’ll have to find a way to work together without having you view me as Ingo’s replacement. Since I...I should head back to the village now.”

“...Brree…”

“…And I’ll come back to see how you’re doing later.” Emmet tentatively patted Shadow’s head one last time.

With the former Subway Boss walking briskly away and ignoring the sad, despairing cries Chandelure emitted. Now that she was all alone yet again. And had failed to protect her family like Ingo would have wanted her to do in his stead. If he saw how poorly Emmet was functioning without him and—

‘Damn. Could everything just please stop?’ Emmet thought tiredly. Upon the young man walking through the entrance into Jubilife Village and heading towards the Galactic HQ headquarters.

A feat that was only accomplished successfully because Emmet noticed Captain Cyllene walking out of the towering red brick building. As the Captain of the Survey Corp stepped down the last stone step right when she saw Emmet approaching. With his arrival prompting her to clasp her hands behind her back.

So, she could address him cordially with her usual impassive expression. “Emmet. I see you have finally decided to grace me with your presence.”

“Ah, yes. My apologies for the delays, Captain. Since I certainly didn’t mean to lose track of time…”

“Hm. And yet it is a reoccurring theme that doesn’t seem to let up. If you are now several hours late to the meeting that has already concluded.” Cyllene mentioned coolly.

With the Captain possessing a frigid tone Emmet certainly couldn’t blame her for. Now that this was the second time punctuality had failed him in a spectacular manner. “….You’re right. There’s no excuse for my atrocious time management. And I sincerely can’t apologize enough for failing to maintain the rigorous scheduling you were willing to put aside for our meeting.”

“Hm. Well, apologies only go so far until they are but a meaningless gesture. However, I suppose now is still a good time as any to hear your report regardless of the late hour.”

“…Oh. But, given how late it is, wouldn’t it be better to have our meeting tomorrow morning?”

“No, it’s quite alright. We’ll have it now.” Cyllene replied tonelessly.

Her stalwart demeanor making it clear that Emmet could brook no further argument about the meeting taking place. Since it was going to happen whether he wanted it to or not. Now that Cyllene was already holding the door open for him and—

‘Whelp. Better to get it done and over with now I supposed.’ Emmet drearily accepted his grim fate.

With the former Subway Boss politely walking past Cyllene into the red carpeted foyer. Before she closed the large double doors behind them and strode into the dark room up ahead. As Cyllene flicked the light switch mounted on the right side of the open entryway. So, that the ceiling lights could illuminate the blue carpeted office. Once the Captain of the Survey Corp strode past the sleeping Abra floating in front of the teal curtained window.

So, she could then pull out the wooden chair to take a seat at her ornate office desk. That had lying atop the blue tablecloth, several large stacks of paperwork and books framing her name plate and the lone notebook. She flipped the cover open right away to the page containing her elegant calligraphic writing.

While she folded her hands on top of one another and gestured towards the empty chair situated in front of the desk. “Have a seat and let’s begin, shall we?”

“…Sure thing.” Emmet reluctantly sat down across from her.

With Emmet peering around the room to take note of the glass cabinets lining the left wall. Since the object itself was next to the tall open wooden archway that connected the office to an adjoining room. Where the former Subway Boss could hear the late night chirps of a young owlet along with the quiet mummers of a sleeping Pokèmon nearby. Who was snoring in unison with the dim light flickering on and off within the pitch black area.

As Cyllene hummed thoughtfully and glimpsed down at her notes. “Alright. Then let’s start by addressing the conflicting reports recruits Rei and Dawn have given me regarding your performance in the Obsidian Fieldlands.”

“Ah.”

“Since recruit Rei is insistent that you clearly have a ‘few screws loose’ if you fail to differentiate North from South—“

“Well, I wouldn’t say that’s entirely accurate—“

“Unless the fool directing the group happens to hold the map upside down?”

“…Maps can be very confusing to navigate.”

“Yes. I’m sure that would be the case. If the illiterate moron reading them can’t tell his left from his right.” Cyllene picked up the fountain pen she dipped into the small glass bottle of black ink nearby. Before she resumed her note taking from where the writing stopped in the middle of the lined paper. “However, despite your lack of directional sense, I will say that I’m suitably impressed you succeeded in capturing the three Alpha Pokèmon as promised. Since recruit Dawn had much to say about your battling capabilities—”

“Even though she’s the one who caught the Alpha Alakazam?” Emmet pointed out dismally.

With the battle replaying clearly in his mind after Sinnoh’s Champion took the initiative to charge boldly into danger. Since if it weren’t for her tenacious nature, then Emmet couldn’t envision how the Alpha could be subdued so quickly. When it was more then obvious Dawn was hindered by a much weaker Pokèmon team. Who could hardly do any damage to the much stronger Alpha Alakazam. That even he struggled to defeat with his well-crafted competitive team—

As Cyllene’s fountain pen stilled abruptly upon hearing Emmet’s honest admission. With the statement causing her to gently lay the fountain pen down on her notebook. While the Captain of the Survey Corp raised a curious eyebrow.

“…I find it interesting that you’re so quick to relinquish the credit to recruit Dawn. When she insisted that the mission was nothing short of successful—“

“In what way?” Emmet barked out an ugly laugh. “The part where nearly all my Pokèmon fainted? Or the part where I prolonged the fight for a stupid capture that wasn’t worth risking everyone’s lives—”

“Danger is something that’s always present. Regardless of any reckless behavior or unwise decisions you make. As each and every one of my recruits are well aware of the risks that go out into venturing the field.“

“And yet it’s still my choice to hyper fixate on something absolutely meaningless. All because I’m not strong enough to overcome an Alpha that clearly overwhelmed me—“

“Perhaps. But where is this obsession with strength and power stemming from? If the objective was simply to capture the Alpha Pokèmon—“

“The part where it’s not enough.” Emmet rubbed furiously at his eyes. “Where it’s never enough because I’m either one-step too slow or too far behind to catch up. Now that my stupid risks haven’t payed off for shit after I wound up leaping head first into danger without a second thought—“

“Recruit Dawn mentioned that you’re looking for your brother.” Cyllene tilted her head curiously. “Someone who is near and dear to you that is also a time-traveler who fell out of the sky?”

“…Sort of. Although I don’t even know if Ingo is here. Since the Ultra Wormhole could have taken me anywhere after Arc flew us straight into the open rift.” Emmet lamented despondently, staring down at his interlaced hands resting listlessly in his lap. “And it’s not like I had any other lead to go on if Elesa and everyone else kept insisting I need to accept Ingo’s death. After he’s been gone for two years and all the condolences were…too much to endure any longer.”

“…Family is…important.” Cyllene quietly conceded, closing her blue eyes. “And it’s easy for others to simply give up when faced with nothing but uncertainty. So, for you to retain the belief that your brother is still alive despite the contrary is…admirable. Even if your motivations behind strength and winning are woefully misplaced. As victory can not be achieved by brute strength alone. If you lack the foresight and wisdom to recognize when you’re up against a towering mountain that can not bend to your will.”

“…Yeah, tell me about it.” Emmet chuckled ruefully. Before leaning forward and resting his folded hands against his forehead. “…But if I am a certified idiot, then doesn’t it mean my efforts are all for naught? Now that there’s little to no chance Ingo is even here several centuries in the past?”

“Not necessarily if I speak to Commander Kamado on your behalf to aid in your search.” Cyllene softened her harsh demeanor in place of something akin to sympathy. “Since it doesn’t sit well hearing that you lost your brother due to external forces outside your control. That I imagine is the reason why recruit Rei and Dawn formally requested I accept you into the Survey Corp.”

“…They want me to join your organization?” Emmet inquired skeptically.

More so when Cyllene huffed slightly in disbelief and leaned back in her chair with a mildly amused smirk. “Apparently so. After I couldn’t get Professor Laventon to cease his excited nattering about your brilliant and insightful knowledge into the Pokèmon research he’s been passionately pursuing for years.”

“Yes, but all I did was answer a few questions—“

“Which is all Laventon needs to sing praises about how your talents would befit the Survey Corps. Especially when he was vocally protesting alongside the recruits against Captain Zisu’s proposal. After she rudely barged into my office to state that she wanted you to have you join the Security Corps instead—“

“Zisu wants me to do what now?!” Emmet blurted out completely befuddled.

While Cyllene sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. “She wants to recruit you to join the Security Corps because she feels that your ‘lack of discipline and self-preservation’ can easily be reigned in if she has you ‘eat dirt’ more than one time—“

“A fact that wouldn’t have happened if I had just been but a moment faster—“

“And yet it still happened regardless considering how foolish it was of you to challenge Zisu in hand-to-hand combat.” Cyllene muttered impassively beneath her breath. Before she peered up at Emmet’s petulant expression with a long weary sigh. “However, it’s no surprise that Zisu shows fondness to unruly strays like yourself. So, hearing that she’s willing to overlook your pretentious and callous attitude towards Pokèmon battling in general is unsurprising to say the least.“

“Even though her words are filled with nothing but false allegations?“

“Debatable. But either way, your calculating and strategic way for handling Pokèmon knowledge and fighting is why I agree with Professor Laventon’s assessment. Since it’s clearly obvious you are both a scholar and a warrior at heart. And that you and Zisu would get along like Glameows and Growlithes. In that you both would just waste invaluable time bickering and getting nothing done.”

“Well, tell that to the person who stubbornly refuses to admit she’s wrong.” Emmet griped in discontent towards the Captain of the Security Corp’s simplistically flawed logic.

As Cyllene scoffed in mild amusement and couldn’t conceal the smile flickering across her permanent frown. “Trust me when I say that I have tried numerous times to inform Zisu of this astute observation. Even if it’s trying to continuously argue with a stubborn Braviary who won’t see rhyme or reason.”

“Right because Zekrom forbid the pigheaded Bouffalant can accept defeat gracefully.” Emmet chortled sardonically at his own joke. Before his faux good mood dissipated and he turned his melancholy gaze towards Cyllene instead. “But all jokes aside….”

“Hmm?”

“Do you really think joining your expedition team is my best bet at finding my brother’s whereabouts? Because the statistical likelihood of him being sent into the past of all things—“

“Is slim to none with the odds not in your favor. I know.” Cyllene twirled her dried fountain pen and closed her notebook. “But you won’t know unless you try. So, either join us and prove your worth. Or don’t and wander Hisui until you die from either lack of supplies or from the wild Pokèmon that will attack you relentlessly from here on out. As neither option is going to change the bleak outcome of your self-imposed mission.”

“…Unless I get my head on straight and reign in my own stubborn temperament.”

“Precisely. Although…I have faith that we’ll find your brother soon enough. If he proves to be as tenacious and strong willed like yourself.” Cyllene said gently towards Emmet’s uncertainty and worries.

With Emmet and Cyllene remaining blissfully unaware of the two lurkers within Professor Laventon’s lab. Who were both sitting on the carpeted floor right outside the wooden archway where they were keeping Rowlett and Cyndaquil company. After Rowlett was hooting curiously atop Rei’s head and Cyndaquil was dozing next to a concerned Dawn.

As the young fifteen-year-old teenager was unable to tear her eyes away from the lone message she texted Arceus on her dimly lit Arc Phone. Which asked the almighty deity if it perhaps played a part in sending Ingo to the past.

Since she had a foreboding feeling that Ingo’s disappearance was no mere coincidence. If all the facts were leading to the possibility that Emmet’s brother was here for the same reasons which brought Dawn into the Hisuian Region as well.

Chapter Text

It was nearing the end of the meeting when Emmet heard the familiar train whistle blaring from his muffled cell phone. With a ringtone that the former Subway Boss had associated with his daily ‘bedtime’ alarm. As Emmet grimaced apologetically upon hearing the disruptive device cut Cyllene off midsentence. Before he quickly pulled it out of the brown messenger bag to swipe the alarm off.

While Cyllene titled her head curiously at the sleek white smartphone being held in Emmet’s hands. “Recruit Emmet.”

“Hm?”

“May I ask what is that noisy device you have in your possession?”

“Oh. Well, this is a cellular phone you use to talk with other people.”

“I see. And, based on what you’re telling me, then I’m to presume that small object functions similarly to a telegraph?”

“In part. Although you can do much more than make or receive calls on a smartphone. Since the device has multiple functioning features.”

“Hm. And are all these ‘functioning features’ capable of emitting loud obnoxious sounds meant to pierce your eardrums?”

“No…not if you um, silence the device or remember to turn off your alarms. So, they…don’t go off unexpectedly like it did just now…”

“Well, seeing as this device reflects its owner, I can’t say that I’m terribly surprised by what transpired.” Cyllene dryly remarked. While holding her hand out across the desk. “However, if it’s insistent on making its presence known then I’d like to see what this ‘cellular phone’ is. Provided that it is something useful like you’re saying.”

“Ah. Well unfortunately most of its basic functions are disabled without cellular service. But…you should still be able to access some of the applications if you click and slide your finger across the screen.” Emmet flipped the screen around to show Cyllene a visual demonstration to coincide with his instructions.

Before the former Subway Boss relinquished his cell by placing it in Cyllene’s open palm. As the Captain of the Survey Corp peered down at the digital screen she was about to investigate. Until she paused at the picture Emmet was using as the wallpaper for his home screen. With the picture showing Emmet and Ingo pointing dramatically at the camera in front of the Battle Subway Trains alongside a happy Archeops and Chandelure.

Cyllene noted with a twinge of sympathy flickering across her stoic features. “…The man in this photo is your missing twin brother?”

“Oh…yeah that’s him…” Emmet replied uncomfortably.

While Cyllene lifted the phone closer so she could scrutinize the picture up close. “I see. And I’m assuming that he’s the eldest out of the two of you?”

“Uh, yeah by two minutes actually. But…how can you tell?”

“Simply. Because he looks like an older brother.” Cyllene stated factually, like it was an obvious observation. “But this will be good intel to share with the Commander. Now that I have a general idea of what Ingo looks like and what he’s wearing.”

“I guess. Although if you or the Commander need a visual reference then you can just describe how I look since we’re identical twins.” Emmet pointed out while Cyllene was inundated with the smartphone for a bit longer.

As Cyllene scoffed lightly at Emmet’s remark. “No. That wouldn’t work since you’re both clearly different people.”

“Hah? I mean you’re not wrong but physical appearance wise we’re practically alike!”

“Not necessarily if there are enough differences to tell you apart.” Cyllene disagreed over Emmet’s incredulous look. With how many people clearly mistook him and Ingo as each other. Before Cyllene decided to overlook this fact to click on the clock icon in the bottom right-hand corner. Where she paused and raised a perplexed eyebrow at all the alarms Emmet had active in the application. “…Recruit Emmet.”

“…Yes?”

“Can you explain to me why on earth you have ‘alarms’ assisting you with daily routine functions. That seem to include reminding you to eat, dress, shave, shower, and sleep—”

“They’re…necessary so that I don’t lose track of time and forget.” Emmet muttered mortified into his hands.

With the young man hoping that the explanation would be enough to satisfy Cyllene’s inquiries. Until she glimpsed back down at the phone and flicked her finger to scroll down the long list of alarms. “I can see that. However, taking care of oneself should be instinctive and not something you should overlook—”

“Well, tell that to my depression so that we can be on the same page.” Emmet ran his fingers through his short grey hair tiredly. After he removed the lilly white flap cap that felt wrong to wear in place of his white train conductor hate. “Since it’s not like I’ve been performing at top peak without Ingo. Now that I’m floundering to figure shit out during the two years he’s been gone.”

“But surely your parents are helping you…” Cyllene trailed off upon hearing Emmet’s bark of bitter lament.

When he wrung the white flap cap in his trembling hands and reminded Cyllene of a broken porcelain doll. That was barely holding itself together with how the pieces were creaking and trying to fall apart.

“Nope. Mom died from a skiing accident when we were twenty years old. And dad followed a few years later from an unexpected heart attack.”

“…And yet here you are before me still alive and well despite the tragedies that have befallen your family.” Cyllene quietly mentioned.

Despite Emmet’s scathing snort over Cyllene’s remark. “I don’t know if I’d define myself as ‘functioning’ if I barely have my own shit together.”

“Perhaps. However, its clear that while you are suffering you haven’t succumbed to despair and hopelessness yet. If you’re moving forward and searching for your brother even now.”

“I guess…but what other choice do I have?” Emmet gritted his teeth at the pang of sorrow trying to resurface.

As the former Subway Boss kept his head bowed and was unaware of the soft movement, he barely heard shuffling against the blue carpet. Until his blurry vision was filled with the white smartphone Cyllene was giving back to him. Now that the captain of the Survey Corps was standing a few inches in front of him with a hint of softness in her normally harsh blue eyes.

“You don’t. But I will not stand idly by and see a recruit under my watch suffering needlessly. So, stand up with your back straight and focus on the mission. Since it’ll do you no good to wallow about something we plan on changing.”

“…Right. And are you always this bossy?” Emmet took his cell phone back with a weak grateful smile.

While Cyllene folded her hands behind her back. “Only when I feel that it’s prudent to motivate someone out of their pitiful state.”

“Heh, well remind me to not get on your bad side. If this is your lame attempt at comforting someone.” Emmet chortled lightly at Cyllene’s amused smirk.

Until the two of them were interrupted by the double front wooden doors slamming open abruptly. Along with the thundering footsteps making their way into Cyllene’s office. That revealed themselves to be an irate Zisu and anxious Ress who were storming through the red carpeted foyer.

“Cyllene! We have a problem—YOU!” Zisu snarled upon noticing Emmet standing up abruptly.

With Emmet appearing alarmed at the sudden ire Zisu was directing towards him. “Uh, me what exactly—”

“You know what!” Zisu lunged forward to grab him. Before she was stopped by Cyllene who boldly stepped in front of Emmet’s frantic state.

As Cyllene narrowed her eyes and glowered into Zisu’s enraged look unafraid. “No. We do not. So, how about you use your words and explain to us what is going on, Ress. Considering how your inept Captain is failing to clarify the situation—”

“Like hell I am you damn stuck-up jerk—”

“And I want answers now if you’d be so kind.” Cyllene ignored Zisu’s ranting to redirect her undivided attention at Ress.

Who swallowed uneasily at Cyllene’s intimidating stare and scratched his brown beard nervously. “Well…it’s regarding a strange Pokémon located outside Jubilife Village.”

“Go on.”

“It’s um, it’s some kind of weird ghost? That hypnotized the guards standing duty outside the gate—”

“Oh, screw that flimsy explanation!” Zisu grunted, clenching her hands into tight fists. “How the hell is that going to tell them shit about the monster that wants to eat them—”

“Wait what?!” Emmet blurted out befuddled.

More so when the Captain of the Security Corps rounded on him with an unhappy scowl. “You heard me, twigs! So, start talking and tell me what the hell you did! Since like hell am I going to stand by while my people are in danger—"

“Calm down.” Cyllene briskly stated, eying Emmet’s baffled look critically. As she turned to him with an imploring expression. “Recruit. Given the accusations Zisu is saying, what is your take on the situation overall?”

“Well…I uh, know that Shadow is the one her and Ress is talking about.”

“The floating chandelier in your photograph?”

“Yeah, her.” Emmet rubbed the back of his sheepishly. “Although, Shadow is probably hypnotizing people to keep her company. As she’s been a bit um, clingy ever since Ingo left.

“And what? That piss poor excuse is meant to placate me if she’s stripping away people’s free will that includes the nerdy Professor—"

“Professor Laventon is in danger?!” Rei ran into the office alongside Dawn and the two starters over Zisu’s latest rant.

With their sudden appearance making them front and center to the others present in the room. As Cyllene pinched the bridge of her nose and looked like she was possibly done with all the recent shenanigans keeping her on shift.

“…Recruits Dawn and Rei. How long were the two of you eavesdropping in on a private meeting I was conducting with recruit Emmet?”

“Uh…that depends on your definition of eavesdropping, Captain.” Rei replied with faux innocence no one was buying.

As Dawn sighed in defeat while she was holding the sleeping Cyndaquil in her arms. Since Rowlett was still perched wide awake atop Rei’s red flap cap.

“Apologies, Captain. We were only listening in out of concern for Emmet’s well being. Considering how…emotionally compromised he’s been ever since his arrival in Hisui.”

“Plus, it’s not like he was opening up to us willingly if you got more answers out of him then we did.” Rei chimed in with a firm head nod.

Cyllene didn’t appear to find valid or amusing. When she had the two teenagers squirming beneath her stern disapproving gaze.

“…I will deal with your insubordination later. Since we have more important matters to address right now.”

“Yeah, no shit we do.” Zisu griped irritably.

Before Emmet waved off her surly mood dismissively as he fixed his white lilly flap cap. “No, we actually don’t. If I plan on confronting Shadow myself to fix the minor problem.”

“Sure, but is that Pokémon going to listen to you?” Ress asked tentatively.

Once Emmet started walking out of the office with everyone following suit. “Of course, she’ll listen to me! We grew up in the same household for Zekrom’s sake!”

“True, although just because you’re familiar with a Pokémon doesn’t guarantee their obedience if she belonged to your brother.” Dawn mentioned while keeping stride with Emmet’s brisk pace.

As the group exited the Galaxy Expedition headquarters to step outside in the warm clear night sky that was illuminating Jubilife Village. With Dawn politely nudging Emmet in the correct direction of the towering wooden gates up ahead. So, the former Subway Boss could walk towards the faint blue-purple flames flickering off in the distance a few feet away from the village entrance.

Where him and the others saw some of the guards and Professor Laventon, wearing a colorfully printed Poké ball night kimono, swaying entranced by the fire being emitted from the crying Chandelure. Who was bawling uncontrollably and looking worse for wear after Emmet parted ways with her. Since her miserable state was enough for the young man to grimace guiltily and shove his hands into his kimono sleeves.

“…There. Is that proof enough that Shadow isn’t intending on eating anyone?” Emmet muttered partially embarrassed.

Especially when Dawn rounded on him with a disappointed frown. “Emmet! How could you leave your brother’s partner like this! She looks terrible!”

“Yeah, I know!” Emmet stepped back from her with a disgruntled look of his own. “But it’s not like I was planning on leaving her for long. If I had every intention of coming back!”

“Okay? But then why did you leave her out of her Pokè ball so this could happen?” Rei watched Professor Laventon’s dazed state concerned.

While Emmet bit his lip contrite beneath the accusational glowers being directed his way from Cyllene, Dawn, and Zisu. “…I figured the two of us could use a break from each other temporarily. Since, we weren’t exactly in the best head spaces to interact.”

“…Because Shadow reminds you of your brother Ingo?” Dawn guessed astutely.

Once Emmet nodded his head sadly in confirmation. “…Yeah. That and the fact that Shadow tends to turn to me as Ingo’s replacement. Because she’s lonely and only latching onto me as a last resort she only pretends to care about—“

“Hold on!” Zisu interjected with a frustrated tone. “The hell do you mean this little guy is only ‘pretending’ to care about you, twigs?!”

“Exactly what I said.” Emmet barked out a hollow laugh, looking like he was on the verge of tears. With how the young man felt overwhelmed by everything that’s transpired today alone. “Because I can’t imagine why she’d give two shits about me if I’m the idiot who abandoned her. If I had to ask a friend to take Ingo’s team off my hands because of how much it hurt to look at any of his Pokèmon. And how badly I screwed up trying to console them when I can’t even get a grip on my own pathetic state that’s been absolutely awful.”

“…Emmet.” Dawn tried carefully approaching the other’s trembling state.

Until Emmet backed away and hugged himself tightly; sounding as lost and devastated as Ingo’s crying starter. “No. I don’t need your pity, dammit. Especially not after this whole debacle. Where I just…I can’t do anything to help her without breaking down myself—“

“Oh for the love of—get a hold of yourself, will ya?!” Zisu strode over and grabbed Emmet by the front of his kimono. With the captain looking ready to shake him roughly until she noted the visible ribs on the former Subway Boss’ lanky frame. That had her frowning momentarily before she eased up and let him go. “And…just get that stupid ghost under control first. So, we can send the affected people to bed and take care of…this next.” The redhead gestured awkwardly to Emmet’s despondent state.

With the Captain of the Security Corp feeling as uncomfortable as the others. Once Emmet listlessly nodded his head and approached the whimpering Chandelure. As Ress peered over at Zisu’s pinched expression with a perturbed frown of his own.

“Um, Captain?” Ress inquired hesitantly. “How exactly do you plan on assisting their obvious depression?”

“Simple. By going to grab something from my house while you guys keep an eye on him.” Zisu decided resolutely.

Her actions intriguing Cyllene when Zisu strode back into the Jubilife Village. Like a determined Braviary setting out to complete her hunt. While Rei and Dawn both saw the moment Chandelure finally lifted the guards and Professor Laventon from her memorizing spell. Once Laventon shook his head blearily and looked at his surroundings with a stupefied expression.

“Uh, what…what exactly were we doing just now?” Laventon held his head in his hand.

The Pokèmon Professor sharing the same confusion as the other two guards. Who Ress ran over to address and ask if they were both alright. Since Emmet was preoccupied with staring at the melancholy Shadow conveying guilt for her actions. Which Emmet didn’t have the energy to chastise as he kicked the dirt absently.

“…Shadow. I told you I was coming back. So, why did you have to inconvenience other people?” He quietly listened to her sad warbles with pained regret.

While Cyllene approached the deflating sad fire ghost with a look that bordered into being both chastising yet understanding. “Shadow was it?”

“...Prreee…”

“Given the circumstances behind your actions, I am willing to let your actions slide for now. But know this will be the only time I will tolerate you endangering the people under Zisu and my command. So, shape up and don’t do it again if you value your life.” Cyllene stated coldly towards the end as a strict warning.

The captain watching as Chandelure nodded her head slightly to confirm she comprehended the orders. As Cyllene hummed contently towards Shadow’s response. Now that the situation has been resolved.

Since it was this point Zisu returned after Ress walked past her to escort his fellow colleague’s home. With the captain carrying what looked to be a large ceramic jug, some small sake dishes, and a bundle of banana-like yellow and pink Nanab berries.

Zisu placed down on a nearby rock so she could open the sake jug up. “Right! So, here’s what we’re going to do. Twigs, you’re going to drink your problems away for tonight so you look less like a kicked Growlithe. And this trouble maker is gong to eat these so she can chill the hell out.”

“Eh? But how is that going to be a good idea if it gets them both drunk?” Rei asked skeptically.

Which Zisu chose to ignore as she shoved the sake cup into Emmet’s hands and the berry into Shadow’s face. “Because! If they’re drunk then it means they won’t be thinking about sad crap. And if they don’t think about the sad crap then it means they’ll be happier.”

“Well, technically I don’t think that’s how that works necessarily…” Laventon picked up one of the sake cups to pour for himself.

Before he handed one to Cyllene who accepted it and took a tentative sip herself. “It isn’t. Which is why her logic is flawed like usual. Since she’s completely disregarding the fact that alcohol can have different effects on people to exemplify their emotional states—“

“Listen! I don’t hear you spouting off any better ideas!” Zisu snapped at Cyllene peeved. “And if you don’t have a better suggestion then shut it. Because this is going to work and make twigs HAPPY.”

“By what? Sheer force of will power?”

“Pretty much.” Zisu stated confidently in the face of Cyllene’s annoyed expression.

While Emmet stared at the filled sake cup and scrunched his nose up in disgust towards the smell. “…As appreciative as I am for the offer, I don’t drink. So, this is going to be a waste of our time—“

“Well, guess what, twigs. There’s a first time for everything and you get to try your first cup with me.” Zisu held up her own sake up with a threatening glower.

The captain making it clear that there will be consequences if Emmet didn’t at least try the sake. Rei and Dawn also agreed smelled terrible when they bent over to sniff the open jug. Before the two backed away from it with their own nose wrinkles of abhorrence.

As Emmet debated whether challenging Zisu on the matter would perhaps put him in a better or worse mood. Until he heard quite hiccups next to him coming from Shadow. Who had a red flush tinging her transparent face. Now that the Nanab berries were helping her relax and the Chandelure looked very happy with how she was swaying content in the evening breeze.

“There see! Look it’s working already!” Zisu proudly stated at Shadow’s elated trills.

With her inhibited state fascinating Laventon as he clapped his hands excitedly. “Oh my words! I knew that the Nanab berries were able to bring a Pokèmon out of an enraged state, but to cause this effect. Oh! I simply must retrieve my notebook and record this straight away—“

“But bring back some food so we can drink responsibly.” Cyllene said to Laventon before he nodded his head and took off back into Jubilife Village.

While Rei and Dawn decided to sit down and pull out some bamboo water bottles to drink. Now that it seems like the adults were planning to situate themselves comfortably outside Jubilife Village. As Emmet finally took a tentative sip of the sake and was choking on the aftertaste with a loud coughing fit.

“Oh dear lord—That tastes terrible!”

“Nah, it tastes perfect, you wimp.” Zisu easily drank her only cup of sake no problem. Since she placed her cup down on the stone and called out her Luxray to help her keep watch. Now that her break was over and she was back on guard duty. “And you have to at least drink all of it. Because I don’t want to see any sake in that stupid cup by the time you nerds go off to bed.”

“Geez, well aren’t you a delight to party with.” Emmet rolled his eyes, taking another small sip of the sake that he was getting use to taste wise.

Since Laventon was humming a delighted tune upon his return. With a box of leftover potato mochi in hand and his leather bound notebook tucked under his arm. That he placed down for Rei and Dawn to grab some food along with Cyllene. Who was standing a few feet away to assist Zisu with the guard duty while she was present.

So, Professor Laventon could resume enjoying his first cup of sake and offer Emmet one of the potato mochi he had brought. “Here you are my good sir! I’ll admit that they’re not as good as Beni’s. But they’ll certainly be a nice treat to snack on while we have our drinks.”

“I suppose so…” Emmet reluctantly took the potato mochi to eat.

While Zisu huffed and crossed her arms. “No. Not supposed, twiggy. It’s good food and you’ll eat it to make you feel better!”

“…How so?”

“By helping you add meat onto your skinny ass! Because you are too thin and it’s probably a contributing factor to this whole ‘I feel like crap’ vibe you got going on as well.”

“Well, it’s not like I’m not eating per say…”

“But are you eating enough food to maintain your body mass so you’re not underweight?” Zisu prodded him for an answer she already suspected. Once she saw Emmet flounder at his weak rebuttal to deny it. Since his lack of response was enough for Zisu to facepalm and sharply gesture towards the plate of food situated next to the sake. “That’s what I thought. So, get to eating twigs. Because you’re not leaving here until you eat at least three of those—“

“Wait what?!”

“And by the time we’re done with our mini party you will be feeling better so you can get a good night’s rest next.” Zisu decided over Emmet’s protests.

With the small group sitting amicably outside the village gates eating and drinking responsibly. Since Cyllene was taking the first watch for Zisu while she was busy bickering with Emmet about setting up a strict daytime routine. She wanted to implement to help get Emmet back in shape and kick his ‘depression to the curb where it belongs’.

As amidst all this excitement was when Dawn heard her Arc phone go off. That pinged with a message Dawn and Rei both glimpsed at with startled expressions. Before Dawn handed Cyndaquil off to Rei and stood up to give Emmet her Arc Phone.

“Emmet! Ingo’s here! He’s here in Hisui!”

“Wait really?!” Emmet grabbed the Arc Phone out of Dawn’s hands.

The former Subway Boss staring at the words that didn’t change even when his vision was blurry and this wave…

….This relief he hasn’t felt in so long since he first lost his brother—

Since he had searched all over and came upon dead end after dead end. Without any answers—

This one singular text was enough for the tears to start streaking down Emmet’s face. Tears that were from happiness this time around when the young man held the phone close. While Dawn was providing the group with a simplified explanation about the phone’s origins.

As the Arc Phone’s existence brought forth a dozen questions that included asking Arceus to confirm why Ingo was here in the past. Even though those questions could wait to be answered once Dawn texted the Arc Phone later for further clarification.

Now that Emmet just wanted to bask in the moment and just appreciate the fact that he finally had a lead he could follow to reunite him with Ingo.