Quest of the Crusaders

[wanlingnic]

Sign ups can be found here (http://www.pokemonelite2000.com/forum/showthread.php?t=18905).


Story
The Ministry of pokemon.


In all its glory, the government building was grand and imperial. On the inside, pokemon scooted to and fro, along with busy people. This was the central hub for all legalized pokemon handling.


But today was not an ordinary day…

…For this was the day the Crusaders were held together for the first time. And in the meeting room, professor Oak’s worst nightmares had come true.

All the Crusaders were from all walks of life, chosen by the world’s leading pokemon experts to fight against a new menace, the newly invented team ‘Rocket’. But in the grand, ornate meeting hall, another conflict had broken out.



“I say we forget what we’ve ever heard and leave for ho-ome.” A young girl called Judith groaned in her seat, dark blue hair flopped over the high backing of the chair; a look of sheer exasperation clawed its way to her face, “I’m missing over half of my radio show…”

She was met with an equally exasperated stare and a stammering lecture from her mentor, Professor Elm of Jhoto.

“Jade remember; this is serious. Children have gone missing and being selected for this is no mean feat! Loads of people would want to be where you are and you must be proud!”

Elm, in his early thirties was a flimsy young man, sickly, pathetic and used to following the ways of others, and his words fell like water on a ducks back to his student.

“Yeah, well…I didn’t choose to be here and I can ch-“

Whatever she was about to add was drowned out by Professor Oak, knocking a mallet lightly onto a wooden stand – the very first meeting of the Crusaders had begun…

[theEND]

OOC: Woohoo.
-----------------------

Rasen had just woken up from a good nights sleep. He looked at his Pokemon that were also sleeping. They seemed to be sleeping just as good. Sukori was rolling around, Sucor just sleeped. Rugion was spinning in the water. Shabaki just snored loud. Good for them. He then heard a knock at the door. Strange, it's only 4 AM. He ran to the door and opened it. "Hello? Anyone here? Huh? Nobody?", he said as he saw nobody at all. He then stepped outside and heard a little snap. He stepped on a piece of paper. He read it. It was in need of him for something. Rasen ran back in and started getting his backpack and other stuff that he needed. He hasn't traveled for sometime now.

------------------------
OOC: Sorry to post so little, I want to make a post before I get to school and be away til 4:00 PM. :oops:

[Teven]

Teven lounged in a chair toward the back of the room as he listened to the bickering of one of the girls. She sat and complained about somthing of no concern to him, and it bothered him that some of these "crusaders" didn't care about these girls. He had reached the ministry a few days before to find he was the first one of his group to arrive. Slowly the others arrived, and it annoyed him that they were so slow. ~What the heck are we doing sitting around like this....Every minute we sit here is one more minute these girls could lose their life.~ he asked himself as he leaned his chair back agaisnt the wall. ~Calm down Teven...~ came a soft female voice eminating inside his head ~Things like this take planning, and strategy. Though the diffrent views and goals of the crusaders can be a problem~ it continued. ~I know Sempathe.....im just a bit itchy to help I suppose.~ he thought, as the sound of a Gavel hitting wood spread across the room. He opened his eyes, and listened intently.

[artistoso]

It was early morning in the town of Fortree, and everyone was happy. The sun was brightly shining upon the treetops and their was not a cloud in the sky, which was very unusual due to the constant raining that Fortree often received. Everyone was pleased, especially Chad. The jolly shopkeeper had once again opened his shop at the usual time.
Plenty of trainers had swarmed in looking for items for their pokemon. Some even brought their pokemon outside in order to enjoy the wonderful sunlight that they had been blessed with today. Chad stood behind the counter, enjoying the hustle and bustle in his quaint shop. He too had been appreciating the great weather and thought that nothing could dampen his spirits today. Suddenly, a man clad in a bright blue postal uniform carrying a bag filled with letters arrived at his shop. Without saying a word, he walked to the counter, handed him a letter and left the shop as if he was never there. Not surprised at the actions of the postman, he opened the letter addressed to him.

"Hopefully its some good news from my daughter in Mauville," he thought trying to be optimistic.

Examining the envelope more closely, he saw who had sent him the letter. Opening the the letter and reading it to himself, his eyes widened and instantly began to think fast. The elderly man quickly cleaned up the counter, and exclaimed to the entire shop, "I'm sorry to all who have come here today looking for something to buy. Something urgent has come up and I have to leave right now. I'm sorry for the inconvenience but the shop is now closed." After his announcement, he grabbed his bag and cane, closed the empty store and left. His destination, The Ministry of Pokemon Registration.


-----


Chad and Regen entered the Ministry of Pokemon Registration. Exhausted from the long trip, he staggered into the busy ministry with the help of his trusted Blissey. Despite the slight cold he had gained through his quick leave from Fortree City, Chad was fit enough to travel the world. Not knowing of the full scale of the crisis, it was time for him to get a briefing on the situation. Hopefully, he wasn't late.

"Thank you Regen, for all your help. I'm getting old and weary these days, but that won't stop me from disposing of Team Rocket and their destructive ways. I can only pray for those poor kidnapped youngsters," he told his Blissey as he scanned the hustle and bustle of the building, "Has the Ministry always been like this? Back in my day, it was very calm and strict. Only one line for pokemon trainers, I remember. Maybe thats because during my day, pokemon were thought to be vicious. Who could blame them, with Team Rocket running around. Hmph. Perhaps this current predicament can be blamed for all this running around. Let's go Regen. We need to find where this "Crusader" thing is," he said trying to find a sign to point him in the right direction.

[Exophi]

OOC: Hehehe... I didn't notice that the role-play started yet! :oops:

IC:

This was it, Dimitri thought, after all these months the machine will soon be ready, and when it is, these Rockets won't know what hit them! He had been so very pleased when Team Rocket allowed him to join there ranks without question, it had been too easy! Though Dimitri started off as only a minor within this project, he quickly escalated to top executive. Imagine that, Executive Locust, he had originally thought to himself. many grunts now called him Saint Locust because of his ability in battle and the countless times he prevented the projects downfall.

This project was the only thing that mattered to him now, he would gain so much if it were to succeed. If the project failed, well, no Dimitri would not let himself think about that scenario. Demise and Octillery had assured him that it couldn't possibly fail. After all, they were well concealed and no single person would dare twart Team Rocket. That wasn't true, a child, Red if he remembered correctly once took down a major project in Silph Co. That was before his family bought out the corporation of course. No one was allowed past the waiting floor these days unless they had flawless identification. Similar to Master Locust's approach on this experiment. Only persons permitted by him were allowed on premisis.

This great power would not just be for him, all of his pokemon would gain torrential power as well. Dreams can be saved for later, his thoughts were inturupted by those of his Haunter, Demise. She drifted dreamily out of the pokeball that never seemed able to contain her.

Dimitri sighed, "You're right of course."

As always, she interupted.

Once again, he sighed, "I do need to focus, in order to get the power that is almost within our grasp we must remain aware of everything."

For a moment she glared at him, a cold shiver ran through his body, You sent out Murkrow sentries as I requested?, she probed.

"It was an excellent idea," he complimented her," Come to think of it, they should be reporting back here now to tell you of their recent spyings."

I am glad, let us hear what they have to say... Seven Murkrow with Team Rocket insignias strapped around there left talons flew in threw the roof, as if on cue. It turned out, they had a lot to say.

The first Murkrow told Dimitri and Demise that the Ministry of Pokemon was planning to send a crew in to destabalize the mission. The second Murkrow knew even more, the crew was know as the Crusaders.Unfortunately. Murkrow number three, Dimitri's favourite as the bird was white, had no new information on obscure leads. The pattern followed for the next two sentries. The sixth Murkrow had extensive new information, the identity of one of the crusaders had been determined. The last bird of misfortune new only as much as the first one did, except for it was under the impression that the Ministry of Pokemon Registration was behind the destabalizing mission.

This is wonderful news, more knowledge than he would have guessed about. Well truthfully, Dimitri thought, it's terrible news. But I'm glad we heard of it now instead of when these 'Crusaders' come to call.

Haunter looked over at him, As am I.

"Stay out of my head!"

[xoxkris]

OOC| Neither did I.

IC|

Haruhi glanced around anxiously. "What the heck am I supposed to do?" She wondered silently while patting her Pikachu, Mai. "I didn't really wanna be here..." Moaning in her mind, she tossed a prepared blanket over her and lay down on four chair, two chairs and 3/4 alone for her long legs.

***

Mikan looked at Lumi, her Lunatone. "You're not getting anywhere, really." She pointed out silently as Lumi tried to 'apply' a HM. "Why don't you let me do it?" Mikan suggested slightly, but retreated upon seeing Lumi's indignance. "Well, hurry up!" Pressing and hurrying Lumi, Mikan snatched the HM away swiftly.

"Come on." She sighed as she retrieved an aggitated Lunatone.

[wanlingnic]

"As you can see..." Oak coughed hard and pulled a projector screen down, the visualizer screening a map of Sootopolis. The researcher ran his hand from the image of the Gym to the Cave of Origin, "This is Sootopolis City. We have had nineteen emergency calls form here since last month."

The image zoom from Sootopolis to a bid's eye view of the area around it - miles upon miles of sea and many small islands dotting the 'Big Blue'.

"This is the Sootopolis Archipelago." Oak fisted his hand and danced his knuckles in circle around the islands.
"And here..." He pointed a finger to a large, deep blue streak that ran across the ocean scene, "Is where the mission begins...

"You will need the aid of a 'Diving' pokemon to enter this area - a human would be ripped apart by the pressure. So for those who do not have water pokemon or don't have any that can mange this feat..." He motioned to a table next to him, where fifteen lure balls had been laid out neatly in a row, "These pokemon are gifted in water traversing. Their entire movesets are blocked with the four water HMs - 'Surf', 'Waterfall', 'Whirlpool' and of course, 'Dive'.

"You will be transported to Sootopolis by helicopter, but that's where we leave you. I do wish you the best of luck."

He glanced around the room and scrutinized the Crusaders. "Any questions...?" Many were still missing, so Oak kept quiet and said no more.

[Saori]

“A parching hot summer’s day at the beach… Lei, isn’t this the perfect time for--"

“Ice cream! Get yer ice cream here! We gots strawberry, cherry, bubble gum, sea salt. You name it, we gots it!” A nearby vendor shouted out, cutting Saori short.

As she heard the word ‘bubble gum’, Saori’s eyes suddenly wandered to the one claiming they had a cone of that frozen goodness. Another sigh escaped her as she noticed he had a whole cooler of that stuff. A look of exact desperation inched on her face. She would’ve done anything to get one… But she had a mission to do!

‘Okay. Saori, control. This is a mission! You can’t get distracted now. You’ve got ice cream-- I mean, POKEMON to snatch! You’ve got to make the boss proud, it’d be so embarrassing if I failed again...’ Saori thought. She had been trusted with 6 missions already. Each one, she failed.

This time, she was sure that she would manage to steal Pokemon from the people. I mean, what better place to be lax than at the beach?
Getting her vacuum-like machine ready, she waited and sat next to her Skitty. It had started to make a bvrrrr kind of sound, but then it suddenly stopped.

Unsure whether it was good or bad, she waited some more… And some more… And some more.

The lack of motion from the machine got to her.
“Aaargh! I give up, maaan. Okay Lei, you guard the station while I get us some ice cream.” She paused, counting her money. “Cherry, right?”
With this question, her Skitty answered with an unsure purr. Kind of telling Saori to stay here and take care of business first.
“Meh, it’s fiiine. Not like anything will happen when I’m gone~ I mean, it’ll just take me, like a minute or so. But if you don’t want any… fine!” Saori teased as she stuck out her tongue.

As she approached the vendor, Lei followed, a bit threatened by the lack of ice cream. Saori bought two cones. One was for her and the other one, she held for Lei to lick. Once both cones were finished, she went back to the machine.

“Ha-hah! What did I tell you?! I knew it’d be fine… And look, now the machine’s working!” Saori said, a triumphant grin clearly plastered on her face.
She quickly pushed each button, then it happened. The moment she was waiting for… And it came with a big KA-BOOOOM!

[xoxkris]

Haruhi nodded. "So, how many people are missing?" She asked after glacing around. As far as she was concerned, there were only one or two. Or maybe three. She didn't know.

"Sorry, I am late!" A girl bursted through the doors. "I am having trouble with my Luantone, and-" She stopped after noticing how Haruhi was staring curiously at her. "S-sorry." She blushed slightly before Oak gestured for ehr to have a seat with a warm beam.

"For the sake of you, I shall repeat, this..."

Haruhi almost dozed off. What was this, man?! Sighing, she gazed at the other girl. She seems familiar, and obviously, Mai thinks so too. The cute little Pikachu darted straight to the other girl who was listening attentively. Mai seemed as if she was hugging the girl!

"Oh my gosh Mai stop that you will startle her and then-" Haruhi gasped and attempted to stop her Pikachu in a quick sentence. However, Oak turned around and chuckled.

"Don't worry, she's not disturbing me." The other girl reassured and giggled like Oak. Haruhi's mouth hanged open wide. She asked why this stranger knew Mai's gender.

"W-why?" The lass was startled. Why? She herself didn't know. "I suppose it's b-because of the Sakura and the charm?" Stammering and stuttering shakily wasn't really like her! "I am Mikan, by the way..."

Oak tapped the screen. "Haru-chan, I hoped you understood me? What should you do?"

Haruhi grinned sheepishly at her joking neighbour. "You haven't reached that part yet...?" She answered in a guessing manner. Oak sighed and Mikan chortled.

"Lucky you!" The Professor turned back to the screen.

[Sophko]

"Sorry." said Heimdall as he entered the room. He sighed and closed the door behind him. "I was fixing the bandages on my arm and lost track of time." The sleeve of his jacket was still rolled up and the ends of bandages were hanging like a loose string on a shirt. He pulled out a chair with his left arm and sat in it. "I hope I didn't miss too much." said Heimdall, still embarrassed at the fact that he was late.

[artistoso]

After wandering through the halls of the Ministry for about twenty minutes, Chad and his Blissey came across the conference room where the meeting was taking place. Fortunately for him, he had entered the room as soon as the Professor had started his speech.

"A water pokemon? I guess I'm going to have to take one of those pokeballs."

The elderly man was first in line. As the gentleman approached the table, he sensed a mysterious tone from it. With fifteen lure balls laid out neatly in a line, the chooser knew not of the pokemon that had been captured inside. Grabbing the outermost lureball, Chad pressed the button and let out the creature that was resting inside.

In a flash of blinding red light, out came a very elegant pokemon who undoubtedly had the ability to carry him across the sea. In front of him stood an indigo-colored lapras whose skin seemed to have sported a shiny gleam. Chad had, undeniably, obtained a rare shiny lapras which he know had full control of. Oh my, he thought to himself, this certainly is a treat. I guess I'll be crossing the ocean on top of a shiny lapras.

[Teven]

Teven watched the new comers slowly enter just as Oak finished and repeated his speech. ~They finally deside to show up~ he thought bitterly. ~Hmm hey sempathe do you think Mizu could handle that or do you think i should take one of the water pokemon just incase? We both know hes majorly depressed....~ he thought to himself to which a female voice replied inside his head ~If you had to ask me I would take one of the water pokemon...Mizu dosn't seem to be able to do much latly he still has to get over the shock, also you could try to ask Proffesor Oak about it, after all he is a pokemon proffessor. Not to mention, he knows your parents well~ Teven nodded, and got in line. Once it was his turn he grabbed the pokeball in the middle, and released the captive pokemon. The result was a slight chaos at the table inside the pokeball was a Gyarados, and apparently it didnt like being in such a small room crowded with people ~RETURN IT! BEFORE IT HURTS SOMONE ~Came sempathe's voice "Im trying he said, but when it came out I kinda dropped its ball. The ball rolled towards the Gyarados, with Teven close behind, but as soon as they got near it, the gyarados slammed its tail into Teven, and the ball sending them across the room. He crashed into the opposite wall letting out a slight grunt of pain but despite that he did his best to stand up. Once he had regained his balance he grabbed the ball, and returned the gyarados. As soon as returned it Oak appeared from behind his podium, and other people appeared out from under their chairs and the tables on the far side of the room. "Eh sorry about that......" he told the crowed, approached Oak. "Professor ....I have a question for you, as you know my father died on my way home from the pokemon league, and right before you arrived, he gave me his wartortle Mizu and I was wondering if there was anything I could do for a pokemons depression? He is very distracted in battle, and other things which is why im not using him to dive, ect ect." He said as he asked Oak, hoping he had gotten over the shock.

[Lonsie]

Ling and Kwan arguing as usual enter the meeting room escorted by their mother who is obviously fed up. “Sorry about being so late, My Xatu’s teleport was a little off today.” Their mother apologizes in the sweetest voice possible, but her stay is cut short, as now she no longer works in the crusaders but in the science lab.

After being told the plan Kwan starts to smirk as he has a reason the re-open the age-old argument between Ling and Kwan that is which type is better, Fire or Water. But Ling is prepared and gets her defense in before Kwan even has time to start “ All this proves is that Water pokemon are better at swimming and diving than fire pokemon which is a big duh.” Now Ling knowing that she would have to use a water pokemon for this mission takes a lureball and hopes for the best, and she got the worst choice she could think of...a Azumarill, a pokemon that is way to cutesy for Ling's taste but not wanting to wine at the famous Professor Oak Ling sits down in a chair silently pouting to herself.

Next it was Kwan's turn as does have a Golduck but it knows none of the desired moves for the mission. Kwan steps up to the table trying to contain his feelings of joy from the events, his sister having to get a water pokemon, him getting a new water pokemon and his first real mission for the crusaders too. But finally Kwan takes a pokeball and to his surprise a beautiful Milotic is released from the lureball to make this day even better.

EDIT: OOC: Sorry about the massive edit, I just thought this would be more fun.

[Sophko]

Heimdall watched as some of the other Crusaders took a PokeBall from the table. He gulped, and after he had gathered enough courage, rose from his seat and walked to the table. Heimdall stared at the PokeBalls, hoping that one of them would tell him what to choose. There were thirteen PokeBalls left, however, the possibilities of what kind of Pokemon he could get were almost endless. Maybe he'd find a beautiful Milotic, a majestic Walrein, or an ancient but efficient Omastar. Finally, Heimdall choose a PokeBall near the middle of the batch and released the creature hidden inside it.

"Tentacool!!!" smiled the squid-like Pokemon. Heimdall stared at the light blue creature. On it's head were two large red orbs, followed by a small one between its two eyes. The Tentacool wrapped itself around Heimdall's arm using its two tentacles. "Tenatcool!"

Heimdall didn't move. He was too busy staring at the pathetic Pokemon that he had chosen. Maybe it wasn't totally pathetic; it could still use Surf, Waterfall, Whirlpool, and Dive. However, compared to the two Gyrados and shiny Lapras he had seen, Tentacool was truly obsolete.

"Just my luck." smiled Heimdall, as he walked back to his seat with a sigh. The Tentacool, still wrapped around him, continued to squeal its name over and over again.

[Saori]

A pair of black footprints, soot; to be more exact, could be seen at the entrance, leading all the way to the boss’ office. Inside, pleas could be heard along with a cold voice that seemed to not care.

“B-but ma'am! I never knew there were Krabbies in there!” Saori’s voice could be heard from the other side of the door. A few of the grunts were eavesdropping, while some just passed by.

“Exactly… And why did you not know?” Retorted the other one, in a weak, but stern manner.

Saori paused for a bit, ashamed to actually answer.

“I asked you a question, isn’t it common knowledge to answer?”

“…It was because… I got careless.” She answered correctly, but it wasn’t complete. She left out the part where she went away from her post to get ice cream… But the boss knew.

“Hmph. Careless, eh? I have had enough of your bumbling. Tomorrow, you are to report to Dimitri Locust.” As Saori heard these words, her face turned a slightly pale shade.
She had heard of Dimitri, of course, but it’s what she heard about him that scared her. He was know to be ruthless and power-hungry. Two things that didn’t go well together.

“He should put you in line… Now get out of my office.”

[theEND]

OOC: Saori, since when were you in the RP? I saw no exact profile in the Sign up what so ever.

[Saori]

OOC: Saori, since when were you in the RP? I saw no exact profile in the Sign up what so ever.

((...Ever since I got approved? @____@a;;;
lmao, are you serious? Try page 2 of the sign up, lol XD))

[wanlingnic]

Oak rushed over the rampaging Gyrados. Back bent slightly, he helped the boy up.

"Are you alright?!" If a pokemon was this violent it shouldn't have been in the pile, "So sorry about that..."

The Gyrados stared, intently at its chooser, with discontent in its eyes. Oak suspected he was used to more experienced trainers. Then, sliding towards the tables, the Gyrados took a long, hard 'rackee' of the Crusaders, and slid next to Professor Elm and nosed him gently.

Oak gave an exasperated sigh. That was the Magikarp Elm had caught as a teenager and it still had to be weaned of its original trainer... But all in all, it was nice to know that the creature wasn't a sadistic, killing fiend and that was thankfully good.


"Uh..." He fingered the collar of his lab coat, staring at the now, pokemon-less trainer, "You'd better pick another one..."

* * *

Jade stared at the ungainly, scaled beast gently nudging her mentor. They were clearly very close indeed. Reaching out a finger, she stroked the Gyrados' dark crest.

"You're very lovely..." She commented, moving her finger towards its nose, "Very lovely indeed..." The beast gave a relaxed snort and nosed her palm.

"You know, I think you'll quite like each other..." Elm smiled, his Gyrados never had much use in the lab, but he was not able to find it a home that it liked. Now he was on to something.

"You mean I can keep it?" Jade smiled, all coldness in her face disapperating into warm love for her new companion.

"You can if you want to. I haven't given him a name yet, either..."

"Oh thank you, Professor!" She seemed so much like her ten-year-old self who first came to Elm all those years before...

"I think I'll call you... Baldor, for nothing can destroy you..."

[theEND]

((...Ever since I got approved? @____@a;;;
lmao, are you serious? Try page 2 of the sign up, lol XD))
OOC: Woops, sorry. I was looking on page 3. xD I might not RP for a while.

[Exophi]

After feeding the Rocket Murkrows and dispatching them once again to spy on the ministry of pokemon, Dimitri returned to buisness. There wasn't much on the survailence that interested him. All security systems seemed to be working. There wasn't much else in here other than the monitors and his desk. A rocket grunt rushed into the room and dropped a letter on the desk. He then apologized for something, and exited the room with an equal burst of speed.

This organization would fall into chaos without me, Dimitri complimented himself. Looking at the sender of his apparently urgent letter, he saw it was from a lower executive. He recognized the look of the envelope, she's sent me another bunglar. He remembered the last grunt she sent him. He had been disbanded from Team Rocket shortly afterwards because he was unable to perform any tasks with Dimitri supervising him. Saori Shinjiro, I don't recall hearing of her before. Reading further into the list of her failures, he saw many terrible reasons for these unsuccesful missions. Ice cream, a speal who could perform tricks, activating self-destruction mechanisms, a lost poochyena, the list just went on and on. This could be a difficult one to mold, he thought to himself.

The same minion who had delivered him the letter rushed back into the room. "Sir, there's a disturbance outside on the-" Dimitri silenced him by raising his hand. Looking over to the monitors, he saw a child arriving on shore with a Golduck.

"North side of the island eh," Dimitri said to himself.

"Yes sir."

Dimitri looked back at the grunt, "I wasn't asking you." The messenger cowered into the corner, even though Dimitri had made no threatening gestures or movements. "Send up a group of three. Make sure that Karen goes along, she has a Cacturne that won't be hurt by the boy's Golduck." By the time Dimitri turned back the door was already closing. As long as he doesn't forget what I said. There was little chance of this, all the newcomers to Team Rocket were absolutely petrified by the concept of the terrifying Dimitri Locust. He hadn't done much to cause them to fear him. Other than when they saw him in battles. Perhaps the idea of removing his enemies memories and getting them to serve under him disturbed them. It was probaly just his style of battle. Attention turning back to the letter of re-assingment for Saori, he realized that his first meeting with her was only minutes away. "Foolish executive, why in the world wouldn't you send me this information yesterday!" There was a few light taps on his door, so Dimitri sat down behind the desk, making sure his nameplate was completely visible. Demise left her pokeball to meet the newest member of their project. She gave an even darker impression, if possible, of Dimitri. "Enter," he commander, allowing the person on the other side to enter his plain office.

[Saori]

Reading further into the list of her failures, he saw many terrible reasons for these unsuccesful missions. Ice cream, a speal who could perform tricks, activating self-destruction mechanisms, a lost poochyena, the list just went on and on.

((That is so like her xD;;; ))

"Enter.” Came a voice laced with ice and venom. Preparing herself for the worst, she meticulously patted her skirt and blouse, making sure no signs of the fine, black powder was visible. Keeping in mind the saying ‘First impressions last’, she apologized to Lei as she returned her to her pokeball. Having a skitty was never good in terms of Rocket standard. She then took a deep breath and followed the command, carefully entering the room.

The doors were made of steel that felt so cold, it made her shiver on contact. The walls were no different. She couldn’t help but feel a chill inside, though no draft was even slightly present. Like a vacuum, there was silence. Lack of sound, lack of movement… Lack of emotion.
Darkness loomed and the only source of light came from the monitors. They gave an ominous glow that made Saori feel even more uncomfortable. But then, a room like this was never made for comfort.

Then there he was. The infamous man who managed to get to the top with his calculating demeanor. Dimitri Sinta Locust.
Saori gave a nervous laugh, trying to comfort herself. Trying to make herself seem like she had plenty of confidence. Something she was greatly lacking right now.

“H-Hello?” Her voice echoed, giving the feeling of desolation. With the emptiness, the desk seemed like it was miles away rather than just a few feet. To this, the man gave a discontented frown.

[xoxkris]

Haruhi glanced at the other trainers. She remebered she had dozens of Milotics and other rare water Pokemon at home, and fortunately, she brought the very sensible Coco along. She gazed at Mikan got up and strolled towards the table.

The young lass sighed before randomly choosing one. She wished she ahd brought her smart water Pokemon, a Mantine. However, when she released out the Pokemon within the ball, her spirits lifted up. It was a beautiful Milotic! Mikan thought that there was only a Milotic, but how lucky she was!

Grinnning from ear to ear, Mikan made her way back to sit next to Heimdall and Haruhi. "I have lots of these pretty creatures at home, and they get along fine with the other dragon-shaped water Pokemon such as Gorbyess, Huntails and Dragonairs." Haruhi commented briefly. "Great prediction, Mikan!"

[Sophko]

"That's an amazing Pokemon." smiled Heimdall as he looked at the Milotic, admiring its smooth peach skin, magnificent horn, and long body. It was a beautiful Pokemon.

"Tentacool!" cried the small squid-like creature as it squeezed Heimdall tighter. The small creature didn't want Heimdall to ignore it. In its eyes, it was much more beautiful than that Milotic. Heimdall sighed.

"A home full of water Pokemon? That's so cool, Haruhi." smiled Heimdall. Where he had come from, the only person who had a considerable amount of Pokemon was Professor Oak.

[wanlingnic]

"Well," Jade said, hoping to keep up with the conversation, “I’m a Dragon Pokemon tamer!” She pointed both thumbs towards her chest in and showy manner as her mentor shook his head and sighed; Jade always wanted to show off.

“I only have some dragons like Kingdra and Altaria, and they all belong to the Prof...” Humbling herself down at the harsh gaze of Professor Elm. Though his voice and demanding nature was weak, there was no disobedience when he resorted to his ‘killer glare’.

Baldor gave sharp ‘harumph’, and a Dragonair escaped his pokeball prison, they clearly did not want to be out of this topic either.

The Dragonair was Daggie, Jade’s very first and only traveling pokemon. Daggerback, as his full name flowed, was a straightforward commando. Where as the newcomer, Baldor, seemed to be a slight ruffian. But they seemed to get along fairly well.

“Okay, okay,” Jade smiled like her old self and rubbed both her serpent-dragons on their foreheads. Then she turned to the boy and stared at his nametag for his name. His handwirting was in cursive and illegible to her, “What kind of pokemon do you keep… ‘Hamdale’…?”

[Sophko]

"It's 'Heimdall'." smiled Heimdall. He couldn't blame her for not remembering it though. Heimdall was a strange and uncommon name. "I only have two Pokemon." said Heimdall. "My main PokeMon is a Vibrava. It was only a Tranpinc when I received it from an archeologist in Hoenn." He took a PokeBall from his belt and released the Pokemon inside it. On the table stood a small insect-like Pokemon. The majority of it's body was brownish green and it had four thin wings.

"Vibrava!" smiled the PokeMon as it looked at Jade, Haruhi, and Mikan. It shook it's head and shifted it's wings, Vibrava found being in a PokeBall quite boring.

"I also have an Arbok." sighed Heimdall. "I'm not very fond of it though."

[Exophi]

Saori entered the room and Dimitri felt like he had just been hit with a brick wall. She stepped up in front of his desk. "He- Hello," she said in barely more than a whisper.

He gave a deep frown. Her? Here? What madness is this! He glared at the envelope as if it had been the cause of this event. Why hadn't that executive told me that she was coming? She should have known better. "Saori is it?" Dimitri asked in the most indifferent tone he could muster under the current circumstances. Without waiting for a response he continued, " You were sent here due to the fact that you cannot complete even the simplest of assignments. The last one you failed to complete may have put the project back weeks. Though I'm sure you can find a way to make up for your bungling. Get out of my office," he finally ordered, after instructing her on her next task.

[Saori]

“Get out of my office.”
…How many times has she been told this today? Nonetheless, it was her cue to leave.

Without saying a word she left as fast as she could. Quickly closing the door and letting her back rest on the cold metal, she gave out a meek sigh. Signifying how relieved she was to be out of that place. It was followed by her body limply slumping unto the floor. She wasn’t sure why, but that feeling… It felt all too familiar. Intimidation mixed with her fear. Was it a memory trying to scratch its way out?

She had no time to think of what it was.
Shakily, she stood up and fixed herself. Now this was it. She had to prove that she was capable of something.

She just had to.

((My, I wonder what her assignment is…))

[xoxkris]

Haruhi simply nodded at Heimdall. She giggled at what Jade commented.

"I love cursive handwriting, but if they are illegible it wont be that good!" She glanced at Vibrava. "Arbok?!" She gasped at the mention of the sanke Pokemon. "I am not too fond of Arbok either. No, make that snake Pokemon. No, wait a minute, I don't like snake Pokemon, but I H-A-T-E Seviper. After having a Seviper biting on anybody's neck, he or she would have freak out."

Mikan smiled. "You mean on your thigh," She corrected unknowingly. Haruhi stared at her blankly. "W-what? What's with you guys?"

Haruhi breathed slowly. "How do you know?" She queried just as Mai (Pikachu, for reference) hopped onto Heimdall's arm from Mikan's. She alerted Vibrava but glanced at her friendly. "I-I mean, you are not my childhood pal, are you?"

The other lass was startled. "I- don't know..." She stuttered just as Milotic approached Heimdall as well. "S-she seems to enjoy being praised." Mikan turned the subject as Milotic bowed her elegant head slightly.

Haruhi nodded. "Mai, don't disturb Heimdall-kun." She started just as Milotic stretched her neck out and nuzzled Mai. "Gosh. Sorry!" She giggled sheepishly as Mai jumped on Heimdall's arm excitedly.

"So, Jade, do you know Prof. Elm? I am his distant relative, Prof. Oak's clsoe neighbour and Prof. Birch's niece." Haruhi turned to Jade. "Cute Dragonair you have. My Dragonairs used to fight with the Gorbeyss and Huntails out of nothing, but not my Milotics."

Mikan chuckled. "So, Heimdall, you like Milotics? And Haruhi, you have a water Pokemon?" She paused as Haruhi nodded. "A Corsola?" Mikan started slightly. "It, it just came into my mind, don't ask!" She replied quickly when a dazed Haruhi released out her cute Coco.

[Sophko]

"Sorry." laughed Heimdall as looked at his nametag. "I used to be a lefty so I can't write very well with my right hand." He scratched the back of his head with his right hand. "I don't mind all snake Pokemon. Its just Arbok that really get to me."

"Vibrava!" cried the Pokemon in a cheery tone. Not startled at all by Mai's leap.

"It's fine." smiled Heimdall. He didn't mind Mai jumping on his arm. It was less annoying than Tentacool hugging his stomach anyways. "Wow. Knowing all the Professors must be neat. I only know Prof. Oak. He's the one that saved me from the Arbok."

"Milotics are nice.” said Heimdall. "Corsola is adorable." smiled Heimdall as he looked at the cute pink and white creature.

[Exophi]

(Note: Artistoso gave me permission to move his charcter along through the story until he returns. Apparently he'll be busy for a few days.)

*Chad Wallowsworth*

Chad smiled, seeing the other members of the Crusaders brought back memories from his youth. Some memories he wasn't so fond of, but most were very pleasing. And these youthful crusaders brought back all of those happier memories. It was rather entertaining. Even with the entertainment it provided, he couldn't understand why they all just stood there. After all, now was the time for action. The senior member of the team spoke up, "As useful to our cause as the discussion of our new pokemon is, I beleive it would be more useful if we got started." Chad left the room and headed back towards the entrance of the ministry. He hoped the group would follow his example.

To his dismay, a storm was brewing over the Hoenn seas when he exited the building. Waves the height of the nearby art center brewed, lightning stuck at least twice per second, and there was an ominous feel towards those spiral clouds over Mossdeep. "Bliss," Regan commented on seeing the spectacular light show.

"I wouldn't call this bliss myself." Chad chuckled, he had just made a joke. "Look at those poor birds out over the sea, they can't seem to reach shore." Indeed this was true, a party of Murkrow were flying stait towards the ministry building, but the winds against them wouldn't allow it. "We should give aid to those poor creatures," Chad suggested. Though he was not fond of the crow pokemon, he couldn't let them be taken in to the storm. Mr. Wallowsworth summoned Sith, his newest pokemon from his pokeball. The eager scyther flew up to the Murkrows without hesitation and brought two back with him. But the windstorm was growing stronger. Sith managed to get another two murkrow back to the shore, but a typhoon had started near Mossdeep. Sith didn't trust himself to fly out in this weather. Lightning struck the department store, the lightningrod atop the building protected the surroundings. "We need a better flyer to save the rest of those Murkrows."

*Dimitri Sinta Locust*

Dimitri flicked on the lights in his office, there was no need to frighten anyone who entered know. The change in lighting bothered his eyes, he always had preferred the dark. The lights went out again, but not because of him. Even the monitors shut off. Has someone cut the power? Was his first though, but the emergency supply turned on, and he was blinded once more. Shutting off the lights, Master Locust turned to the monitors. Oh, it's just a storm. Alright, no worries then. Now his attention could rest back on Ms. Shinjiro.

It may have been a rash decision to send the new and unimproved Saori on her current assignment, but he had been in shock. Perhaps I should call it off, he thought, In her new condition this task may be too hard for her. The old Saori had been grand at any task that faced her, even if now she appeared utterly useless. If she blows it this time there'll be trouble.

Nothing will go wrong, Demise assured him, once again exiting her pokeball. Saori can do anything she puts her mind to, as long as she isn't distracted. That's her main problem. Many thoughts started flowing through Dimitri's mind, but they were not his. This was one of his Haunter's tricks to get him to do what she wanted.

"No starting that!" He shouted. "I was just about to go and check on the machine anyway."
No I wasn't, the thoughts of Demise were projected into his mind, making him feel like he was thinking them, I was far too distracted by Saori, for I didn't expect for her to be sent here. Stop that! Dimitri drowned out the interuption of his thoughts with a mental shout. "I'm going to check on the grunts progress, and see if I can get any of them to cry again."

Demise's face broke into a wide grin. She laughed in her own launguage, making it so Dimitri couldn't understand. Oh, let's do that again. I truly enjoyed it last time. The project leader left to examine the machine. It was all operational to the point at which it had been constructed. And better yet it, it would almost be complete soon. It would already be complete if not for Saori's failures. But now his victory was so close, he could actually taste it. He had always thought that as a figure of speech, but Dimitri could actually taste his victory! Only a day or so more and the machine could be done. Then the children could be used for the experimentation period.

[Teven]

Teven growled as Oak ignored him "Proffessor are you getting hard of hearing?" he asked, still clutching the ball of the surprised Gyarados in his hand. "I really need your help." he said as we watched some of the other trainers aquaint themselves with the group.

[xoxkris]

Haruhi nodded briskly. "Well, I can't really write or draw with my left hand, but I really admire you for that!" She nodded towards Mai. "Anyway, do you want her to be on your arm or should I just hustle her back. Ma-ieee!" She gasped as she hopped swiftly onto Tentacool's head. "G-rrreat."

Mikan chuckled. All of sudden, a thought came into her mind. "Say, Haruhi? Are you a reall pro sketcher and singer? And are you one of the worse at being very very hard-working?" Scenes of her and her sister returned as she tried to shrug them off in pain.

Haruhi grinned cheerfully. "Well, they say I can sing and sketch in anime and manga form very well, but who cares? I mean, you are very very good in basketball, aren't-" She paused as Mikan gasped, but that was not what distracted her. "Mi-kan. Your Milotic..."

The Milotic pushed the Pokebutton on the Pokeball and returned herself back. She didn't like to be outside without water, unless she's flying.

"Coco, what do you want?" Her trainer asked as the chibi cute Corsola shone its beautiful, sparkling branches. "What? Contest, now? Are you mad? We've go a mission to do, man!" She turned sheepishly to Heimdall and Jade. "Coco loves contests. So far I have won about fifty percent of my ribbons with only her."

Mikan sighed. Why was all this happening? The stuff she and Haruhi knew about each other was freakingly creepy. "Oh well." She tried to start off with Jade who seemed rather quiet. "So, Jade, Prof. Elm knows you very well?"

"That reminds me!" Haruhi exclaimed before speaking to Heimdall. "So you know Prof. Oak! Are you blood-related, or just like, friends' sons or something? That Professor, he used to bring me food and play with his grandson when I was young and nobody was home. Now that I have lots and tons of siblings, I'm not lonely, but his grandson still visits us!" Haruhi reminisced. "Ya, cool to know all the Professors, but Pro. Elm was really strict! He claims that he won tons and many ribbons when he was young. Didn't he knew that there was no Contests in his 'era'?!!"

[wanlingnic]

Ooc~/ Yes, Jade’s something like Pike-Queen Lucy, she loves reptile pokemon….

* * *

Jade stared at Haruhi almost as if she was from a distant planet.

"What do you mean you don't like snake pokemon?! I love snakes, they’re so cool and caring…” She gave her serpentine pokemon a rub on their heads and they replied with contented purrs.

“I had a Seviper once, but a Zangoose clawed it into smithereens.” She sighed, remembering her baby Seviper called ‘Milo’ and its untimely death, “I’m just not too fond of furry creatures… They’re too fluffy and they make me sneeze…” Jade rubbed her nose hard, as if to clear sinuses.

“But my favorite would still have to be Shuckle,” She looked dazed as she dreamed about the adorable, turtle-like pokemon, “I’ve never seen one, but I heard they’re cute…”


Elm gave a sharp cough and Jade snapped back to reality – it was constantly his job as a mentor to keep his student on the line.

“Yep, the Prof. here’s my godfather, we’re not related by blood, but I’ve known him since I was born.”

[Sophko]

"No, we're not related." chuckled Heimdall. "Professor Oak was just the person that helped me when I was attacked by an Arbok." He raised his left arm.

Heimdall then looked towards Jade. "I'm sorry about your Seviper." As much as Heimdall didn't care for some Pokemon, he couldn't help but feel sorry for Jade.

[wanlingnic]

"It's alright," Jade smiled, thankful to those who'd mourn for young Milo, "I gave Milo a good farewell, he's cremated now and his ashes were just enough to be turned into a Blue flute when we went to Fallabour..."

She stopped to remember Milo'a passion for music, how he'd dance when he'd hear a good Rock and Roll tune or Celtic song, "I still have the flute... Do you wanna hear it?"

[Saori]

Making sure to let Lei out, she had the feline walk with her. It was this urge. As if she needed her there as a kind of reassurance, it always helps to have something familiar in a place so foreign.

Being assigned to a new place meant being assigned new teammates, or as the Rockets would like to call them, new underdogs.
It had been just a few minutes since she left the office, when she was already starting to get lost.

‘Why am I always stuck with mean executives…?’ Saori thought, dismay showing evidently on her face.

She tried to keep her mind clear even though she still felt a bit dazed. Her first meeting didn’t turn out as she had hoped. Expectant of at least a hand shake… But instead, she got kicked out of another office. First days were never good to her anyway.

Managing to already cover two-thirds of the open area, she continued her walk, eventually leading her to the main hall.

Remembering when she first arrived, her mind drifted to the thought of that gray colored corridor. She got her first glimpse of the massive structure.
It was composed of walls that stretched so high, it made their lobby look even more barren than it already was. Not only that, she also noticed how most of the people who worked there were so empty. Like they were nothing more than drones. Hardly any of them were talking, and if ever they were, it was to announce the status of their assigned task.

It made her a bit scared…

To think that she could possibly end up like that. She quickly shrugged the notion, making sure that it would never enter her mind again.
The little amount of windows the hall had let only small amounts of light pass through. They were also tinted, making it seem even darker than it already was.

“What a welcome atmosphere this place has…” Saori mumbled, a bit incoherently.

[xoxkris]

Haruhi softened. "You don't understand. It was individual Sevipers who killed my Shuckie..." She whispered softly. "Anyway, sorry to hear about Milo... If you want, may I play on the flute?" Haruhi asked meekly, deep in thoughts.

Her mind wandered to how the Sevieprs and Arbok had attacked her baby Shuckle. Helpless and young, Haruhi did not know what to do, and was almost hurt by a Arbok nearby. All she remembered was two Rocket figures nearby grinning to themselves at the gruesome action. And her sister wandered off forever...

No! She shrugged her thoughts off and gazed at Heimdall's arm. "Here's mine." She showed her almost invisible and ridiculously light scar.

"M-Milo?" Meanwhile, Mikan was speaking to Jade. "That's the name of an Seviper that belongs to a Grunt who snatched me from my home. I heard her commanding him by his name- which was actually Miles, shortened to Milo- and..." She shook her head. "That couldn't be your Seviper. Baby..."

"Baby Sevipers are cute." Haruhi told her with a dreamy sigh. "I have seen one before, the way it wraps itself around my arm upside like a bat playfully!" She exclaimed. Prof Oak gave her a pathetic look.

"Still thinking about Ryken?" He asked sharply, and Haruhi snapped out of her castles which were half built in the air. "I-I don't like Sevipers!" She blushed and Mikan giggled.

[artistoso]

(( I'm back. Thank you Exophi for handling things. :biggrin: ))

The senior trainer began to worry. Apparently none of the other crusaders have noticed the bothersome storm, regardless of the racket that was going on outside. It seems that the younger generation is too busy chatting up on their favorite Pokemon, to help out defenseless ones right outside the building. “So these are some of the best trainers they can find to handle Team Rocket? They have plenty of childish spirit, but not enough youthful action,” he scoffed, still preoccupied with the task at hand, “Well, it’s no use wondering on ‘What Ifs?’ I need to find out what to do about these dreadful birds.”

Glancing around the exterior of the ministry building, Chad hoped to find something useful that would assist him with the current predicament. “Bliii-sssey,” cried Regen who had begun to panic for the safety of the other Murkrow. “Sith, go take those Murkrow to inside the building. I’m sure they are drenched from the storm and need a little drying off. You too, Regen. I want you to go inside and aid Sith with those Murkrow,” insisted Chad, “I’ll stay here to think of a plan. The remaining Murkrow are still in danger and we can’t just leave them here.”

“Bliss, Bliss,” refused Regen, who insisted on staying with Chad. Not only was she his Pokemon, but she was also his nurse. She was after all responsible for his health and staying outside in the middle of a storm was not advisable for an elderly man.

Chad sensed his Blissey’s concern and allowed it to stay behind with him. “Okay, Sith. I’m leaving the Murkrow up to you. Make sure they are well taken care of.” He snatched one of the pokeballs that had been clinging from his waist. In a flash of red light, Chad had released his most trusted Pokemon that had been with him ever since his trainer days. “Genngg-aaar,” wheezed the gengar who had popped out of the red orb. “Casper, I want you to go inside the Ministry building and alert the Crusaders of the current crisis. We need someone with a strong flying Pokemon, got that?”

“Gar,” nodded the ghost Pokemon who in a matter of seconds disappeared into the building along with the Scyther who had been carrying a handful of Murkrows. The storm had been getting worse and the Murkrows were now in real danger. Chad looked up at the dark sky, wishing he had some sort of idea how to help the flying Pokemon.

[Teven]

Teven sighed from not recieving an answer from oak, but his expression changed when he saw an elderly man leave the room ~I wonder what he is up too?~ he asked himself, but was overheared by sempathe ~I dont know maybe its trouble you should go check.~ Teven nodded and ran out of the room. He finally caught up with the man, and asked "Is somthing wrong" notcing a few of his pokemon where standing around him about to do somthing he had asked them, which only his arrival stopped them from leaving right off.

[Saori]

An exasperated sigh followed by her coming to an abrupt stop. Her feet were starting to hurt and her small feline friend was already looking wobbly.
It seemed to be forever since she started walking… and the fact that the corridors were more like an unending maze didn’t help.

“Uh, wait. Didn’t I already pass here?” She aimed the question more to herself, rather than the grunts that passed.
This resulted for her Skitty to stop and sit.
Well, she needed the rest anyway.

It didn’t take long for Saori to follow.
She sat down near Lei, back leaning on the opposite wall, where the windows were. The wall gave a cool feeling, making Saori actually thankful that it was there.

“Haha, isn’t that weird? I’m actually thankful for this…” She told her companion with a somewhat unsure smile. It would feel so good to fall asleep right then and there.
I mean, who needs a bed, right?
But kidding aside, she was already starting to feel drowsy. Eyes were nearly closed when someone disturbed her with a hard push to the shoulder.

“Hey, hey, hey! No sleeping on the job!” A deep, hoarse voice came shouting at her.

The voice belonged to another grunt… She was much taller, compared to Saori. Her build was more on lean, yet she still had a feminine figure. Crimson hair that reached to her thighs was kept free without a clip or tangle in sight. She had golden eyes that were obviously brimming with life and fire.
The black uniform matched really well with her over-all appearance. Red and black with a lovely touch of gold from her face…

Such a pity that she acted more like a drunk man than a woman.

“New here, eh? Haha, I’ll be sure to show you the ropes! Youki Shidoru. How ‘bout you? What’s yer name?” She asked, not really giving Saori the time to answer.

“Ah, Sa--" She started, but was quickly cut off.

“Meh, no use for introductions. We better show you where to go before anything else.”

And with that, they were off. Though Saori wasn’t that sure where.

[Exophi]

This was very worriesome, Dimitri's murkrow sentries were supposed to report back daily. They had been gone too long. Where were they? Had the crusaders discovered their true purpose? Anything could have happened. Dimitri didn't know what measures those people would go to in order to gain information. What if they tortured the birds? Dimiri couldn't stand to think of his wonderful white murkrow in pain. What if the storm over Mossdeep had consumed them? Dimitri would have to go and find the birds himself. That was all there was to it. He stood up from his chair, heading to the door of his office.

You are going to stay here. Those were Demise's demanding thoughts. Without realizing what happened, Dimitri turned arond and sat back at his desk. Completly forgetting about the Murkrows. His haunter snuck up behind him, Why don't you check on the grunt's progress again? Hopefully the device is nearly finished.

"You're probally right, it should be nearly complete in a few days time," St. Locust smiled, "Hopefully we can catch them slacking. I need to vent some steam." Dimitri just read another letter of a failed experiment caused by a young lady in Mauville.

Haunter remained smiling, Let's hope they aren't wasting any time. It is precious, and we don't want to give those Crusaders any oppourtunity. At this rate, they won't have a chance to disturb us. The crusaders, he hadn't heard any news about them for a while, where were his murkrow spies! A grunt rushed into the room with a letter for him at that particular moment.

"Come with me," Dimitri ordered the unfortunate messenger. "We're going to find my birds." All day Demise had been stopping Dimitri from leaving in search of the Murkrows, but she couldn't just earase his memory in front of another Rocket. The haunter growled before vanishing into her pokeball. The grunt was petrified, he couldn't refuse the project leadersd order. Many other grunts before him had cracked under the direct surveilance of Dimitri Locust. The boy in his late teens merely bowed. He said something, but he stammered so much it was indecipherable. On his way out he passed Saori, the girl was distracted by the executive she faced. As the two females started down the hall, Dimitri stopped them. A replacement superviser was needed while he was away. He looked to the executive, about to tell her to keep watch. Taking in her appearance, Dimitri couldn't help but question her leadership abilities.

Then there was Saori, eager to prove herself. Her past was full of overcome obstacles, even if she couldn't remember them. "I will be gone for a short while and need someone to supervise the operations taking place on the third basement floor." The druken executive stood up strait, expeting to gain the responsibility. "Saori, I'm putting you in charge until I get back, don't let the grunts slack off. I want a detailed list of their performance over my absense." His orders were met by an absolute look of shock from Miss Drunken Exutive. How did she get into that position? She must be a friend of another administrator, he thought. "And you," Dimitri pointed to the woman, "are demoted, turn in your executive clearance to the proper administrator. Actually, on second thought, give them to Ms. Saori here, she'll need them to get into my office."

Without waiting for a response, Dimitri was off. He collected a capable executive from the first floor, and another grunt, and they sped off on Seagallop 18 to Mossdeep.

[artistoso]

Chad looked at his Sith and Casper who had seemed to stop moving upon the arrival of another human. Annoyed that they refused to follow his command at such a vital time, the senior trainer decided to remind them of their duties. "Ahem, Sith, Casper, aren't you supposed to be doing something," coughed the elderly man, "Sith get going with those Murkrow. They are already soaked as is and staying out here will only result in health conditions. Casper, didn’t I tell you to commandeer the attention of the other Crusaders?” The two Pokemon were shocked at their trainer’s words and immediately entered the ministry building to perform to their tasks. “Scyy-theer,” shrieked Chad’s newest Pokemon who seemed to be upset that he had been stuck with the hardest job.

After tending to his Pokemon, Chad looked at the young man who stopped his Pokemon. He didn’t look like an experienced trainer, but from experience he knew that appearances were often deceiving, especially in the world of Pokemon.

“Ah, yes. Do you perchance have a strong flying Pokemon? I believe those Murkrow are in need of assistance,” he said pointing at the dark stormy sky where a few Murkrow were caught in the galling winds, “We managed to rescue most of the wretched birds, but I’m afraid I could not save them all. That is why I asked my Gengar to raise the awareness of the others. Please assist if you can.” The elderly man looked back at the tempesuous sky, he could tell that it was getting worse every second.

---------------------

Meanwhile, Sith had entered the building and set the poor, smelly birds off to one side of the hallway. Given the chore to look after the pitiful flying Pokemon, the Scyther simply watched as the Murkrow dirtied the clean Ministry floor with their wet feathers. As he placed them down, the Murkrow had instantly organized themselves into a line, as if they had been trained to do that. Without hesitation, they began to move around the building with the utmost sneakiness. Confused at the actions of the group of birds, Sith knew it wasn’t normal and instinctly followed one of the dark crows.

----------------------

Casper, on the other hand, sifted through the building walls. It wasn’t long before he reached the meeting room where the Crusaders had congregated. “Geenngaarr,” shouted the rushed Gengar, waving his hands frantically in the air. He needed someone’s attention and fast.

[Teven]

"Ah a fellow pokemon lover I would have been out here sooner,but I had no clue such a storm raged....."he pulled three pokeballs from his belt. "As a matter of fact they arnt too big but they are decent flyers Kagerou, Sky" he said as he released two pokeballs revealing a Vibrava and a Dragonair. "help this man round up the Murkrow into the ministry building....its very important" both pokemon nodded and flew off as he released his third pokeball revealing his gardevior "Sempathe Use your phsycic powers to relay the message to the other crusaders that we are in need of Flying types to help these poor things out" the Gardevior nodded and began to try to telepathically communicate one at a time which was harder with people she didnt know. ~Ill do what I can but you know my bond with you makes it easier to talk to you~ Teven nodded "I know it does just try." Teven smiled at his elder "Hows that for ya?" he asked.

[Saori]

It wasn’t hard to get shocked from the sudden turn of events. A promotion, all of a sudden?

“E-executive…” She said, stammering from the sudden announcement. Her face turned quite pale after hearing those words.

She couldn’t even ask or retort to the change since the one that had promoted her briskly turned his back and left, leaving an expression of distinct confusion on her face. What she would’ve given to understand why these things were happening to her.
Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, she straightened her poncho. This was nothing more than a distraction, to take her mind off the unexpected happenings.

It was… In a way, ironic. How something like this happened without her even trying… Whilst no matter how hard she tried to do something, it never happened.

But if there was a thing about Saori that was quite remarkable, it would’ve been the fact that she was good at seeing the positives in a given situation.
…And that was exactly what she did. ‘Always look at the bright side of life,’ they say.
But this thought didn’t keep her from sighing.

Well, at least I’m moving up, right? She asked herself, still nervous with what happened.

Right now, she was sure that she was NOT ready for this responsibility. And yet, she was afraid to let her new leader down. It was like she had this complex wherein she needed to please everyone first, rather than herself. Cruel though, that she was never good at pleasing people.
Taking a deep breath, she stood up and started walking off, trying to find what she needed to do now.

[Sophko]

[OOC: Gah. I'm terribly sorry with the long abscence. >< School has just started and it's getting harder to go on the computer as much as I usually did. xD;;;]

Heimdall rose from his seat, almost catapulting the Pikachu and Tentacool off of him. "Sorry!" yelped Heimdall as realized what he had almost done. He returned Tentacool and placed Pikachu closer to it's owner.

"That's Chad's Gengar, right?" asked Heimdall. He didn't know much about Chad, but had remembered that he had carried a Gengar with him. "It looks like it wants us to follow it. There may be trouble outside.". Heimdall then took a PokeBall from his belt and released the Pokemon kept inside. "Go, Vibrava!" The small bug-like Pokemon emerged from the sphere and beat it's wings. "Vibrava!" yelled the Pokemon in a cheery tone.

"C'mon." smiled Heimdall at Jade, Mikan, and Haruhi. Following Vibrava, Heimdall exited the building in a slow run.

[xoxkris]

OOC| At least the reason's because your busy. Mine was because my Net was down!!! Yooooww! I just slammed my thigh down on an wooden chair T.T There's blood dripping out -I have blood phobia, worse!-

IC|

Mikan tilted her head and gazed at Jade curiously. However, Haruhi stood up and followed Heimdall as Mai hopped onto her shoulder once more.

"Erm, Jade, should we follow?" Jade did seemed a little bit left out, or so Mikan decided. 'Or... Should I just leave you alone and follow?"

[Exophi]

Rain poured down upon the Rockets as they exited headquarters and dashed towards the watercraft. Locust's crew were preparring the seagallop for departure when two of the sentries landed on shore, one supporting the other. The black and white birds landed with a splash in a tidepool not far from the group of humans. Executive Newbar ran to them, pulling them from thick mud that had seeped into the divit. No one could hear the others voices as the downpour was too thick. Dimitri's expression fell, disheartened by the sight of his favourite Murkrow with a broken wing. And even worse, the wound was filled with grime and salt water. He issued an order to a supportive grunt, but it couldn't be heard. Pointing to the Murkrow he held in his arm, Dimitri shouted, this time right next to the man, "To the infirmary!" The grunt wasted no time, he gently took the crow and sped carefully off through the strormy coastline. Dimitri rumaged through the ships compartments and found a sound amplifier. "Let's get this boat to Lilycove! Now!" Everyone immediatly rushed to get aboard the ship, a order given had to be followed as soon as possible, especially when delivered by Executive Locust.

Seagallop 17 rocketed across the Hoenn ocean surace, sailing high into the air with each steep wave. There were many such waves, as the storm was so powerful. "It is as if the sea itself is against us," he whispered to Destruction. The Kangaskan nodded. No humans were on the ship, Dimitri had only needed them to help him prepare in this wretched weather. "What do you think has givin us such terrible luck Destruction?"

The kangaroo pokemon growled, and tried to sound out a word in human speach, "Ka-au-ng-krr." He smiled, pleased with his ability to mimic human noises.

"Kro krow!" The black murkrow cawed, bouncing up and down in some sort of exited gesture. This distracted Dimitri from the steering, which shouldn't have been serious since the vehicle was far from any island chains or landmasses. Before he could say anything to the bird, his ship crashed at a velocity of over 170 kilometers per hour into a giant whale. Instantly, the boat's front was shattered and metalic bars and glass shards flew all around them. Only Destruction's quick arm movement saved Dimitri from the propellor blades flying through his head. Cold wind also gushed into the ship, and tide began to swallow it. The unfortunate bird was heard screaming "Murkrow!!!" as it was pinned into a corner by a metal plate. Destruction grabbed his trainer by the trenchcoat and seismic tossed him onto the back of the whale they smashed into. This was the deepest part of the storm, Dimitri soon realized. Though only a short distance away, he could only see faint lights coming from the seagallop. The murkrow's screeched were even hard to hear.

Hoenn's ocean washed over him in the form of a large wave. Dimitri fell onto the remaining top section of the ship. Through the glass roof, he could see his kangaskan struggling to unpin the metal holding the small bird was stuck behind. The entire chameber was filled with water. There was no choice but to return Destruction to his pokeball. The giant sea beast drifted under the ocean surface and the sky almost instantly stopped raining. A red design grew fainter and fainter as the pokemon submerged. As rays of light broke through the clouds, Dimitri attacked the water around him, "The sea was against me! Kyogre, I'll get you for this!"

Come to think of it, Kyogre would be an excellent example on the device. That would work out nicely. Power of a legendary, at my fingertips! Time for that was later. He was still heading to Lilycove. Dimitri sent out Octillery as the clouds parted and rode her to the mainland, which was coming into sight.

[Saori]

“Ah, Miss Shinjiro… So this was where you were.” A woman, slightly taller than Saori, commented as she approached the confused woman. Her ebony hair was tied into a ponytail that kept her face neat, not a single strand dangling. The half-moon spectacles she wore added to the seriousness of her face. She looked like the type who did everything once and perfected it, the type who could not tolerate mistakes.

“Mr. Locust had informed me of the changes. I am well aware that you are new… But if he had appointed such a position to you, I trust it must be because you are capable.” Her words were monotonous as her placid eyes stared at Saori’s appearance. It was obvious that she found the girl quite incompetent for she too, knew of her record. She stifled a cough, trying to hide her disappointment. The truth was, she was vying for that position and felt quite insulted when it was handed to her.

“Well then, follow me.” She stated in a commanding voice. Pen in hand and a clipboard on the other, it was like she was assigned to be the nanny of Saori. And if ever she slipped up, Dimitri would know directly.

Her new guardian walked in quick, fluid strides that made it hard for the smaller girl to follow. It was as if she didn’t care if Saori could catch up or not. After a few turns in the previous halls, she stopped and pointed to a mahogany colored door isolated in a corridor. Approaching it, her guide started to speak.

“This, is where you’ll stay. We expect you to do your best and please, if you need anything, call upon the grunts.” She gave a slight nod to Saori, signaling her to enter and turn on the lights to which she complied. Lei-Lei was first to enter, eager to explore the room. It was carpeted with a royal red color but some patches were faded. The light was hanging from a ceiling fan whose blades were dulled and dusty. Even the light itself was suffering from overuse as it blinked on and off until it stopped with a dim white light. Filing cabinets were at the side of an office-based table with a movable chair at the back. It was simple but it was enough.

After seeing her new “office”, if one could call it that, she gave a small smile to her guide… as if to say thank you. The woman only responded to it with a cocked eyebrow. Such gestures were considered rare and even despised in Team Rocket. Thinking her job to be done, the black haired woman gave a slight bow and turned to leave, a grim expression on her face. When she was out of the office’s sight, she placed her hand unto her forehead, as if to contain a headache. She then thought about the new recruit, which made her sigh.

…What have the Rocket standards sunk to?

[Exophi]

This can't be happening, Dimitri Locust thought to himself as he broke through waves the height of houses. This was nothing to what they had been minutes before, in the pek of the storm, but they were still strong. He almost preffered it when Octillery swam underwater with him, it was warmer that the chilly ocean wind currents above. Luckily Dimitri would soon be able to leave the water. Octillery would soon be pulling him onto the beach of Lilycove. Good old, warm, Lilycove City. A nice stop that would make. There shouldn't be any trouble with the Crusaders while he was here, not even the brilliant pokemon proffesors knew what he looked like.

This was more of an advantage than a diadvantage. Except of course for the Seagallop accident. It was nearly time to pick up the monthly income from the shopkeeper on the third floor of Lilycove Department Store. Returning Octillery to her pokeball without so much as a thank you, Dimitri headed to the towering building. On his way he saw an older gentleman outside a large office building. Chad Wallowsworth, why I haven't seen him in years, Dimitri couldn't help but think. He shoved his glove baring the rocket insignia into a hidden pocket. The rocket approached Chad, greeting him with a friendly hello. (When I say friendly, what I mean to say is, not cruel.)