Sam was floating, his head light, a distant sound echoing around him. Wrapped in warmth, he was barely aware of anything other than himself. Then he felt something tug at his hands, a pressure being removed from his chest, one he didn't know was there. Something brushed against his leg, and a shuffling sound caused him to open his eyes. He saw a boy jumping over him. Slowly, he recognised Joe, as the boy made his way onto the furthest edge of the bed. Noticing Sam had woken up, the tanned boy whispered: "sorry, woke you up again". His voice sounded even more distant this early, Sam thought.

"It's fine", the boy slowly sat up, using his elbows for support.

"I did my best not to", Joe promised, "but I woke up to you hugging me, so...".

"Oh, yeah", Sam's blood rushed to his cheeks, realising what the pressure from before was, "sorry, I'll try not to do it".

"Yeah, I'd appreciate that", Joe says quietly, "and I'll try not to wake you up from now on".

"It's fine if you wake me up", Sam says rubbing his eyes, "hey, we're going for a run, right?".

"I can't today", Joe says, "I have to wake Teo up, we have to leave soon".

"Right, right", Sam yawns out, "Lilicove".

"Yeah, you wanna come along?", Joe offers.

"No, I... I really don't like breaking the rules", Sam stutters out while, rotating his body to sit on the edge of the bed, "I'll just go and train, it's okay if I do that without you?".

"Well, you do need training, and you do not need me, so I think that would be a good idea", Joe notes, "need anything from the shops?".

"Um, not really", Sam says scratching his head, "I mean, you're already getting the training equipment, right?".

"Right, I am, training bands and soothimg berries, that's the main target", Joe nods, "but I'll look for some TMs for Rio as well, so maybe Bolt could use some, if I can find them".

"Huh, well, that sounds nice", Sam starts undressing, "though I'm not sure why were you thinking about it right now, I mean our partners know enough moves already".

"Right, but I don't really like Endure and Metal Claw on Rio", Joe shrugs, "I'd like to change that".

"Well, those two seemed to come in handy the last time you fought", Sam remembers.

"Yeah, only cause I had no other options", Joe says, "I would've loved not relying on Ves to pick up the kills for me".

"Yeah, right", Sam pulls on his running shorts, "and you think Bolt needs new moves as well?".

"I mean, you did say you want it to be a special attacker, and it has no special moves right now", his teammate points out, "besides, a long range attack would somewhat compensate from your partner's lack of speed".

"Yeah, you're probably right", Sam pulls his t-shirt over his head, "would you really look for that for me?".

"I mean, I'm looking for TMs anyways", Joe shrugs, standing up. He softly shakes Teo awake, letting him know they should be on their way.

"Right, thanks", Sam says, but Joe seems to mostly ignore it, being too busy with getting Teo down to earth. The boy's gravity centers seem to suffer some sort of morning sickness. Shuffling in spot, Sam uncomfortably waits for Teo to get ready, so they can all leave together. He's not even sure if he's supposed to wait. Teo doesn't exactly like him. Teo doesn't exactly like anyone. Except Joe, maybe. Joe on the other hand has been the nicest one to Sam thus far, but had felt, and Sam hated to say it, a little bit soulless. It was as if the boy was just going through the motions at all times, sticking to common courtesy, but lacked real empathy. Joe doesn't really like anyone either, Sam conluded. He noticed Riolu wasn't by his side, the boy had kept the fighting type inside the pokeball even since that scuffle on the beach, but Sam still found it strange. With nothing better to do, he let Yamper out of the pokeball, quickly picking his partner up and pressing him against his chest. The small brown dog gave a happy yawn, strectching his body. He'd carry it down, Sam decided, those short legs weren't built for descending down staircases. Besides, he liked carrying Yamper around.

When the three stepped out onto the dormitory plato, Sam could barely make out the other two boys in the darkness. The sun hasn't risen yet, the boy realised, and his teammates seemed even more distant in the early morning. Yamper was shivering in his arms, and the boy quickly put it down on the ground, letting the small dog run a few circles to get warmed up. He really wished he had put on a hoodie as well, as the air of early September's morning proved itself rather unkind. They didn't talk. As if on cue, Joe let Riolu out.

Joe took a lead, with the other two following him. He knew where the boats supposedly were. It lasted for a bit, just the three of them walking in silnece. As the first ray of sun broke through the horizon, Sam watched the shadows spread across their faces. They were all still very much wrapped in darkness. The boy carefully traced his finger acorss his cheek, as if he knew those same shadows were on him, and he was trying to wipe them off. The other two seemed far away and foreign to him. They always did. Two silhouettes walking through the darkness, just a few steps in front of him, but they seemed so far. And it wasn't strange, they all felt so far ever since they have met. He recounted these past few days, not finding much good to hang on to. Trying again to wipe off those shadows, his eyes couldn't stray from the two boys in front of them. Thinking things through, the two were probably the nicest one to him, which was surprising in Teo's case. Still, unlike Ves and Ace, these two really didn't take that many digs at him. Joe even let him sleep and train with him. Why did they seem so distant then? Why was he always the one being pushed to the sidelines? Watching the two, he couldn't help seeing a gap, one that felt unbridgable. These two, Sam realised, were much different than him. Right now, they were on their way to escape the island. Further than this, he rembered everything. Both of them always seem ready to start a fight. Both of them seem ready to break the rules. Both of them seemed cold. He hated to admit that about Joe, but it was the truth. In his eyes, the shadows turned the two boys into something inexplicable, something familiar in the worst sense. He remembered people like them well enough.

Soon, the three went their separate ways. Teo and Joe gave him a quick goodbye, and made their way towards the caves. Sam started running. It felt good to get his body moving, it woke him up. The chill air sticking to his skin stopped bothering him as much. He tried getting his teammates out of his mind. For the first time in his life, Sam felt grateful to be left alone. Yamper was still struggling to keep up, so Sam lowered his pace. Swirling in his mind, faces and names seemed to resurface along with the sun. Not only were his attempts to not think about his teammates futile, but he started thinking about everyone else. His parents had no idea of everything that went down in these few days, not how it had affected the boy. He had told them he was doing well and that his teammates were good. He had only gotten around to sending a few texts to Peter. Neither of them had much time to talk, but Peter did mention his new high school was fine and he was getting by. Liam never texted him, and Sam didn't bother either. For a moment he questioned if the two of them were ever close at all. And Fred. Fred was barely responded to his texts. Not that Sam had sent many of those. Sense of undersatanding would dig into his chest each time he thought about Fred, a peculiar knowledge he didn't dare put into words that entire summer. Then there was everyone else, in Old King's and everyone else back home in Twinleaf. Stuck in the inbetween, the boy made his way towards the training trees.

"Alright, Bolt", Sam said absentmindedly, "set-up with Howl, then start using Nuzzle on the tree, is that fine?. Yamper readily barked in response, before letting out a loud Howl. Sam could see the small dog's muscles stiffen through its thic fur. Taking a run-up, sparks started flying, first from Yampers legs, then quickly trickling up his entire body. As his partner slammed into the tree, Sam sat down on the ground. Numbing feeling started growing in his stomach. First time he trained with Joe, two days ago, Yamper was hitting this very same tree. Yesterday morning as well. Same tree, same training. He just did what Joe told him to do, he remembered, and the thoughts were running rampant yet again. Everybody else seemed like they knew what they were doing all the damn time. Except for him. He was just there, following instructions. Even yesterday, when they battled those girls, he just went along with the plan Dean had set-up. And he couldn't do that well enough either. Old King's was full of kids who wanted to be pokemon trainers for their whole lives, it was only natural they all had an idea of what they were doing. Even that Andrei guy, who was ranked just a single spot above him, seems like he just knows what he's doing. Then there was Sam, who just couldn't find his footing within the battle, not unless he had someone giving him instructions. He needed Joe to tell him what to do, even yesterday, he just went along with what Dean and Joe had told him to do. And it was not as if he was doing it well.

Cutting these thoughts off, he focused on Yamper. He wanted to find a way to improve, that's how this training thing worked, right? His partner was still slow, but the boy could see that he was trying his best. It wasn't his fault his body wasn't the one of the runner. It took him a while to get into position for the run-up, and then it took a while until he reached the tree. Sam was sure the strikes made the giant oak tree shake slightly. The impact was good, he thought, but Yamper didn't gather enough electricity. Nuzzle was a weak move, after all, mostly focused on causing paralysis, not dealing actual damage. Breathing in, he calculated things. He has made it into this school, the last thing he was was stupid. From what he knew, Yamper generated electricity while running, so the strenght of the attack was reliant on speed. Which was not a great prospect for a slow pokemon like Yamper. Raising speed seemed like an impossible task. The only other option, Sam thought, was having his partner increase the distance he's attacking from, which would give him more time to gather electricity. That worked in training though, it was not as if he could pick and choose things like that in an actual battle. A though crosses his mind. LightBall could work to fix his issue. He takes out his phone ready to text Joe, then remembers he doesn't have the boy's number. He doesn't have Teo's either. Sighing, he tells hid partner to move back and attack from further back. Not much else that he could do.

Getting out of the shower, a pulsing numbness is still widespread across his body. It's just a bit past 7 AM, as he enters the room wrapped in a towel. Ace is most likely still asleep, so he can't yell at him. Joe is gone as well. Walking towards his suitecase, he starts the process of digging up clothes, cursing the fact he still hasn't unpacked. He feels a touch on his shoulder. "Hey, Sam", Ves whispers behind him, and the boy turns around to face him. In the dim morning light, Ves looks painfully fourteen. Sam quickly diverts his gaze from his teammate's weary eyes. Ves's skin is pale, and Sam can see pimples grouped on his chin. That must be painful. "Hey", Ves is still speaking quietly, his voice ghostly, "is everything fine, why are you awake at this time, we don't have classes today?".

Pulling back from the boy's reaching hand, Sam's not quite sure how to react to this. It's not like he didn't understand why Ves was acting all nice, but Sam found it hard to buy. "I was training", the boy finds his voice coming out flat, "why are you awake?".

"Heard you come in", Ves shrugged before starting to run his hand through his hair, "training, huh?".

"Yeah", Sam says simply, slowly continuing to dig through his suitecase.

Silence hung on for a few seconds, but Sam knew Ves was still behind him, and he could hear the boy shuffle uncomfortably. Finally finding some clothes, he turned around and headed towards the bathroom. Ves was still there, his hand finidng Sam's shoulder again. The boy's touch was surprisingly soft. "Hey", Ves said, his voice growing for just a second, "I just wanted to say I'm sorry". Clearing his throat a bit he adds: "sorry about pushing you that time".

"Pushed me more than once", Sam is hesitant to remove the boy's hand. He doesn't want to be like that.

"Right", Ves comes in just a step closer, "sorry about that as well". Sam's not sure how to respond. "Did you...", Ves breaks the silnece again, "did you get hurt too, when Joe got burned, you were there too, right?".

"You mean when you burned him?", Sam raises his eyebrow judgingly, regretting it as soon as Ves steps back, flinching. "I'm fine", Sam adds, doing his best to soften his voice.

"Right, glad to hear that", Ves says, looking away.

"Alright", Sam passes by him, heading for the bathroom again.

"Hey, we can go and grab breakfast", Ves offers, "I mean if you're cool with it".

"I kind of wanted to be alone", Sam avoids the offer, "I have a call to make".

"Oh, alright", Ves says in disappointment, "hey, you could give me your number, so we could call each other as well".

"Um, I...", Sam's not sure what to say, "maybe later".

"Cmon, Sam", Ves's voice grows louder, "why are all of you ignoring me". Sam just looks at him, seeing his eyes sharpen, shoulders rise.

"Well, isn't that kind of a deal", Sam says looking away.

"It's a stupid deal", Ves says.

"Right, well, it wasn't my idea, so don't blame me", Sam replies.

"Dude, just hear me out", the balck haired boy pleads.

"Why would I?", Sam rolls his eyes, "cmon, the only reason you're apologising to me right now is that no one will talk to you, I'm not stupid, you know".

"That's not true", Ves says firmly.

"And you're yelling at me now", Sam points out, "for whatever reason".

"Because you're refusing to hear me out", Ves persists.

"I did hear you out", Sam says, and he can feel blood rush to his face, "I just don't exactly trust you, not when you yell apologies to me".

"Right, right", Ves lowers his voice again, "I'm sorry dude, I... I just get carried away".

"Yeah, I've noticed", Sam rolls his eyes.

"Sorry, but can we just talk", Ves says, "I'll be normal".

"Why do you even want to talk to me, I thought you don't like me?", Sam raises an eyebrow at him. Ves has no answer, so Sam adds: "what, you think I'm that desperate or naive, is that right?".

"No", Ves says immediately, but he doesn't seem convinced either.

"Right, right", Sam scoffs.

"I don't think you're stupid", Sam reassures me.

"Really?", Sam says, "judging by all the times you called me out for being dead last, I would say you very much think that".

"Look, I'm sorry about that, I really am", Ves says lowering his arms next to his body, "it wasn't fair, but it's just...this school, you don't know how much it means to me, and...".

"It's imoortant to me as well and I didn't go around attacking anyone", Sam cuts him off.

"Well, it's not exactly the same", Ves says insecurely.

"How is it not?", Sam crosses his arms in challenge.

"I mean", Ves scartches his head, "to be fair, the system is the way it is and, you know...".

"I don't", Sam says.

"Cmon dude, don't make me be a jerk", Ves sighs.

"What, now it's my fault you're a jerk?", Sam's voice fills with anger.

"Fine, alright, you wanna hear me say it", Ves yells, "if we fail, I won't be the reason, and that's a fact you know".

"And I will be the reason, is that right?", Sam takes a step back.

"Oh, cmon, now I'm a bad guy again", Ves throws his head back, "your test scores are the lowest in the entire year, and you're not exactly good at battling either, so yes, that's how is, alright".

"You're really bad at aplogising", Sam says quietly.

"Look, dude, I am sorry, trust me, I'm sorry for being a jerk those few times", Ves is yelling again, "but don't expect me to lie to you in order to make you feel good".

"You're being a jerk right now", Sam yells back.

"Shut up", Ace's voice comes in, teraing at the seams, "both of you shut up, I'm trying to sleep".

"Well, I'm trying to apologise here, so you shut up", Ves yells at him. Moving his body a bit, he dodges the flying pillow that Ace had sent his way.

"The two of you sound like roles cut out off The Outsiders, and for a reason", Ace snorts. Sitting up in his bed, he takes a sharp look at the two boys, his gaze stopping on Sam: "you, are you naked under there".

"Yeah, so what?", Sam wraps his arms around his body, suddenly becoming more aware of the fact he's barely wearing anything.

"So, go and get dressed", Ace throws another pillow at him, "this isn't a nudist camp, you know".

"Whatever", Sam says taking a step back to avoid the flying projectile.

"Well, Ace now that you're out of the pillows, you can stop acting tough", Ves points out begrudgingly.

"The two of you are really...", Ace sighs, "you two do realise you live with four other people, right?".

"Hey, Joe and Teo aren't here, so", Ves retorts.

"Don't get me started on those two", Ace rolls his eyes, "my fucking point is, you can't just act as if no one else lives here".

"Dude, you're basically a houseplant", Ves protests, "a very loud and unbearable houseplant, do you even leave this fucking room?".

"Hey, I'm not yelling around when others are trying to sleep", Ace points out.

"Oh just stop already", Sam lets out a groan, "you guys are...".

"What? What are we?", Ace looks at him firmly.

"Yelling's the only thing you know", Sam snaps at him, "seriously, you guys just can't seem to talk like normal people, yelling at each other, threats and fights are your only means of communication".

"Hey it's not my fault you're all asocial", Ace says, standing up.

"Well, you do fit right in", Ves rolls his eyes, "so what does that say about you then?".

"You're one to talk", Ace basically runs up to him.

"Yeah, why not", Ves is quick to step forward, showing the blond boy away.

"Right, that's just your style", Ace scoffs regaining his balance, "you can't even talk, dude, you're a maniac".

"Hey, you're the one picking the fight", Ves inches in closer.

"No, I'm not, I'm trying to talk normally here", Ace steps back up to him, "but you just like acting all tough and shit". Looking straight into Ves's eyes, Ace adds: "what, not gonna push me now".

"Shut up", Ves says taking the smallest step back.

"You two should stop acting like you're in a toxic relationship", Sam scoffs.

"Oh, what's this about", Ace laughs, "since when do you have balls to talk like this buddy?".

"Just stop it already", Sam says turning away.

"Oh, come on now, don't get upset", Ace says mockingly, "what's wrong, Joe's not here, so you're in distress, huh, is that why you're acting out".

"What's that supposed to mean", Sam looks at him sharply.

"I'm just saying, you've been running after Joe like a puppy, for heaven's sake he's going to start keeping you in a pokeball soon, you know", Ace laughs.

"That's not true", Sam says, feeling a sting in his stomach.

"Dude, he doesn't even like you, you know", Ace steps away from Ves and comes in closer to Sam.

"Well, he's nice", Sam says insecurely, "unlike the rest of you".

"Oh, he's definitely something", Ace rolls his eyes, "he's got you all obsessed for whatever reason".

"Yeah, Sam, you are kind of obsessed with him", Ves points out.

"You as well, Ves", Ace throws him a glare, "that whole 'I'll beat you, Joe' speach was homoerotic as fuck".

"Shut the fuck up", Ves says flatly.

"Why, you know, I think the two of you are in love with him", Ace laughs, "wait, is that why you're acting like such fools right now? You're just mad Teo's on a date with your little boyfriend right now?".

"Shut up Ace", Sam scoffs.

"Yeah, dude, you talk too much for someone who said he doesn't want to talk to us", Ves points out.

"Well, I don't want to be woken up on our day off, either, so there you have it", Ace says.

"I wasn't the one yelling", Sam points out, giving Ves a dry look.

"Right, great, am I supposed to apologise for that as well?", Ves throws his hands in the air, "I'm sorry I raise my voice, like, ever".

"It's not about that and you know it, stop acting like a douchebag", Ace snaps at him.

"Well, what is it about, then?", Ves retorts.

"It's about you being an asshole", Ace is quick to bring the other boy to a full stop. "You're contantly commenting on everyone", he says, "putting us down, you're either shoving people away or trying to burn them alive, and that doesn't exactly work in making you likeable, you know".

"Right, well, that's what I'm trying to apologise for here", Ves says desperately, "but you're not listening to me".

"Yelling is not a way to apologise", Sam says crossing his arms.

"And will you go and get some fucking clothes on already?", Ace turns his attention to him.

"Shut up, Ace", Sam keeps his eyes on Ves. "You can't just expect us to accept an apology, not after being a jerk to us".

"Well, what else is there to do, I already said I'm sorry a thousand times", Ves wails, "besides, it's not like I've ever said anything untrue, Teo and Joe think the two of you are dragging us down as well, you know"

"Don't drag them into this", Sam says slowly.

"Why not?", Ves says, "they think you guys suck too, so why am I the only one who can't say it?".

"Wow, you really suck at apologising", Ace comments.

"The two of them didn't try to kill anyone", Sam points out.

"Yet", Ace adds, "those two are trying to get us expelled, and I am already not talking to them either".

"Well, y'all seem awfully chatty to me", Ves rolls his eyes.

"Why are you so butthurt", Ace scoffs, "what, you want to be our friend all of a sudden, huh?".

"I don't", Ves yells, "and I don't even know why I'm trying to apologise either, you guys are assholes".

"Well, you can stop trying then", Ace scoffs.

"Right, I will", Ves yells again, stomping towards the doors, "screw the two of you, I'm going to get some breakfast".

"I'm going to get dressed", Sam says, firmly grabbing the handle to the bathroom doors.

"Thank God", Ace exclaims, "and I will go back to sleep".

"Good", Ves yells slamming the doors behind him.

Sam, not quite sure what to do with the rage, slams the doors as well. He gets dressed quickly, noticing Yamper looking at him intently, his small body shivering. He's forgotten Yamper was out of the pokeball this whole time. "Sorry you had to listen to all that", the boy coughs out an apology, recalling his partner. He's not even sure the pokemon was in the room with them during the fight. He'll need to pay better attention from now on.

Alone, Sam makes quick way to the cafeteria. Ves is already there, sat and eating, so Sam makes sure he doesn't look his way. He spots Henry and Marc in there as well, for a second he thinks about joining them, or saying hi, at least. He decides against it, they weren't exactly close. He wished Dean was there with them. Dean was nice. Grabbing a packed lunch to eat on the go, the boy does his best not to storm right out of there. He is in a hurry, though. Once outside, a sense of relief hits him. The air grew a bit warmer, and he had brought a hoodie this time around. The plato in front of the dormitory was barren, and he quickly found an empty bench he could sit on. Taking out his phone, his fingers quickly found Fred's contact. Finger hovering over the video call button, he listened to the nauseous feeling in his stomach. Changing his mind, the boy scrolled down, finding a different contact.

Few rings later, his phone flashed back, and within moments, a boy appeared, his image just a little bit blurred. Sam could make out the bags under his friend's eyes. Warm pain spread across his body, numbing his hands, at the sight of a familiar face. "Hey, Pete", Sam said.

"Hey buddy", the boy replied with a yawn, "what's going on".

Sam could not reply for a second. Just looking at Peter's messy black hair, looking as greasy as ever, his dishelved plaid shirt, had him swearing it was only yesterday that they had seen each other last. "Not much, is it okay that I'm calling?", Sam says trying to hide weariness in his voice. Taking a better look at his friend's surroundings he adds: "are you in school? I can call later?".

"Yeah, but I came in early, classes start in 30 minutes, I have time", Peter says slowly, "is everything okay?".

"Yeah, dude", Sam lies, "why you ask?".

"Nothing", Peter rubs his eyes, and Sam gets hung up on small frame freezes that follow his movement, "it's just weird you're calling me, that's all".

"Why is that weird", Sam laughs a little, knowing the answer well enough.

Peter stares at him, carefully adding: "I just thought you'd call Fred before me, did the two of you talk since you left?".

"Yeah, yeah", Sam lies, "we did... and I'm calling you now, cause you know, I wanna talk to you as well, sorry for not calling earlier".

"Eh, it's fine", Peter says, eyeing him suspiciously, "I get it, you've been busy".

"More than you know", Sam says with a sigh.

"Is something going on?", Peter raises a suspicious eyebrow at him.

"No, I mean yes", Sam says scratching his head, "well, you know how it is, new place, new people...".

"Right, so everything's fine?", Peter asks again.

"Yes", Sam readily lies, "no need to worry about me, how are you doing?".

"Well, I did stay in Twinleaf, so I'm mostly surrounded by the same people", Peter shrugs, "you know, not much to say, I'm pretty sure you've had much more interesting beginning to the year than me".

"I just don't want to end up talking about myself to much", Sam says almost apologetically.

"Look", Peter sighs, "I... I'm going to be honest if you will, Sam".

"Right, I've been honest though", Sam says, "is everything okay with you?".

"Sam", Peter stares at him through the screen, "we've known each other for so long, I can tell when something's not okay, you know?".

"Yeah, well I can tell that too", Sam lowers his head.

"Sam, you already know what's going on here", Peter lets out a deep breath, "I mean, at least you should have an idea".

"Right", Sam clears his throat. Wearily, he asks: "How's Fred doing".

"I wouldn't know", Peter shrugs, "he's kind of avoiding me right now, you know".

"Really?", Sam says in surprise.

"Really", Peter looks away, "these few days in school he's been keeping his distance, mostly".

"So what, the two of you are just not friends now?", Sam asks.

"We talked a few times, in passing", Peter explains, "he basically says everything is fine between us every time, but he's in a hurry and can't talk".

"Yeah, that's how he replies to my texts as well", Sam sighs.

"So you haven't talked to him either", Peter nods knowingly.

"I didn't", Sam admits, "I'm... I really don't know what's up with him".

"We do know, Sam", Peter scoffs.

"Right", Sam coughs.

"We do know why he doesn't want to talk to you", Peter adds, "I have no idea why he's avoiding me or Liam".

"Hey, he's avoiding Liam as well?", Sam says in surprise.

"It seems so", Peter says lowly, "wouldn't know much about it though, it's not like Liam and I talk much either way".

"Right, so Liam is...just gone", Sam says heavily.

"Well, he's basically too busy with basketball, it's not that hard to understand", Peter shrugs, "when we didn't get into Old King's he just decided to chase another dream".

"Yeah, he did always love basketball", Sam says scratching his head, "I mean I get it, it's just strange, you know, it feels as if he's been slowly dissappearing the whole summer".

"Well, he kind of was", Peter says in a low voice.

"I... it's a bad thing to say, but I'm not sure if Liam and I were ever actually friends", Sam shoots out, "you know, I don't remember ever talking to him that much".

"I didn't either", Peter points out, "and Sam, it's not like you and I ever talked that much either".

"Didn't we?", Sam says.

"We didn't", Peter says slowly, "we were all mostly there for Fred".

"Right", Sam says knowing this was the truth, "it's still okay that I called?".

"Yeah", Peter says shortly, "it's okay".

"You hate me too?", Sam says insecurely.

"Not really", Peter shrugs, "I don't have a reason to".

"But it's my fault", Sam says, "Fred's acting like that because I've been accepted into the Old King's instead of him".

"I don't think younwere accepted instead of him", Peter tries.

"I was a single spot above him", Sam points out, "2 points ahead, I'm pretty sure he hates me now".

"It's not your fault", Peter says, "we all did our best, and you managed to pass, that's all".

"I know, but...", Sam starts.

"No buts", Peter cuts him off, "Fred has only himself to blame, we all took the same test, you passed, we didn't".

"I wish you did", Sam admits.

"I know", Peter says in understanding.

"I mean, we always talked about this, and it feels weird that you guys are not here", Sam starts word vomiting, "and now I'm the only one here, and it feels strange, and people here are so different".

"Calm down Sam", Peter laughs a little.

"I just wish you guys were here", Sam says, "and we could be teammates, and pokemon trainers together".

"Hey, we can always just pass the trainer bar and get a licence like that", Peter reassures him, "so it's not like we're doomed to never be pokemon trainers just cause we didn't make it".

Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

"Right, but you'll have to wait four more years", Sam points out.

"Right, and by that time you'll already be in Master's division, I'm sure", Peter laughs.

"Are you actually fucking with me right now?", Sam smiles.

"I am", Peter admits, "I mean, there's no need to be dramatic about this, we didn't make it this time around, but it's not like going to school is the only path one can walk".

"You've been watching those tarot reading online again", Sam laughs.

"Indeed I did", Peter jumps up slightly.

"So, in four years, we'll be hitting up tournaments together", Sam says confidently.

"We'll see, maybe", Peter says, his voice turning flat.

"Well, why a maybe?", Sam questions.

"I've been thinking a lot, with Liam surrendering his life to basketball", Peter says, "that was always kind of his thing right?".

"Right, he always loved it", Sam nods.

"And pokemon battles were always Fred's thing, and yours", Peter points out.

"And yours as well", Sam reminds him.

"I don't know Sam", Peter admits, "I mean, I do like spectating, but I think I've always just went along with Fred and you".

"What do you mean?", Sam says confused.

"Well, the two of you were always into it, so I thought I was as well", Peter shrugs, "and I've been thinking a lot lately, now that I'm basically alone".

"You're not alone", Sam cuts him off.

"Um, Fred and Liam are both ignoring me", Peter says in low voice, "I am very much alone".

"I'm not ignoring you", Sam says.

"You're not here though", Peter points out.

"Right", Sam nods, "I'm not".

"Well, I've been thinking a lot", Peter says, "you know, seeing how happy you were when you got accepted, and how mad Fred was when he failed, I just kind of realised I didn't care nearly as much".

"Right, right", Sam nods along.

"And now that you guys are not around me all the time, I've realised I don't actually think about pokemon training all that much", Peter admits.

"So you don't want to be a pokemon trainer anymore?", Sam says feeling a stinge in his stomach.

"I don't know what I want, Sam", Peter says, "honestly, it's just weird, you know, on one hand, I basically have no friends right now, on the other hand, I've realised how much I've just went along with the group, you know, I just followed you guys around".

"Well, sorry you feel like that", Sam says.

"Don't be, it was a nice little dream", Peter laughs, "but as it turns out, I needed to lose you to find me".

"Did you seriously just reference Selena Gomez on me?", Sam laughs.

"I did", Peter says, "is that a crime".

"Oh, no, no", Sam says, "I was just thinking, you'd love Ace".

"And Ace would be one of your new friends?", Peter inquiries.

"A teammate, he's referencing movies all the time", Sam explains, "pretty sure we're not friends, though".

"What, so you're in the same boat as me then", Peter raises his eyebrow, "cmon, Sam, you're much better at making friends than I am, don't tell me you don't get along with your teammate".

"Well, these people are... different", Sam admits, "I don't think I have any friends here".

"Really?", Peter's voice gets filled with worry.

"I mean, there's a guy on my team that's nice to me, but he's a... he's a bit strange, the other three are not exactly frinedly", Sam explains, "I mean, there's also Dean, he's cool, but we're not on the same team, so I don't think we're friends".

"Fraternising with the enemy, huh", Peter says, "maybe that's why your teammates don't like you, buddy".

"Hey, I'm not", Sam says, "besides, I only met Dean becaucause some guy on his team, Lesley, is a a friend of Ace, or not really a friend, I mean, they are definitely something, but anyways, Lesley challenged Joe, cause Lesley likes battling, and Joe is also kind of a battle maniac, so he accepted, and we had a tag team battle".

"Alright, stop now please, I don't know any of those people", Peter waves his hand around, "what I gather from this, you've gotten into a battle with some battle maniacs, right, how'd that go".

"Well, Lesley battled Ace, and won", Sam explains, "and Joe and I battled Henry and Marc, and we won, I mean, I got knocked out, but Joe took out Marc and then it was one on one between him and Henry, and the two of them are literal monsters, I think".

"Alright, alright, no need to reconstruct the entire battle for me", Peter laughs, "so the point is, there are strong guys there".

"There are stromg girls as well", Sam's really gotten into it, "some girl, Natasha, washed Lesley yesterday, and he's actually pretty good too, him and some Andrei guy had a battle against Joe and Ves, and they were giving them some real trouble".

"Okay, wait up, I still don't know any of those people, and I'm starting to get a little bit lost", Peter says.

"Well, Joe and Ves are my teammates, they are both pretty strong", Sam explains, "and they did beat them in the end, it was very cool".

"So you like at least two of your teammates then, that's good", Peter sighs, clearly not able to make too much of Sam's rambling.

"Well, no, I mean, after that, Ves attacked Joe, so now no one's talking to him", Sam doesn't catch onto his friends attempt to shorten the story, "and Joe, I mean, Joe is nice, but he's... he's a bit cold, and I don't think he likes anyone, really".

"Okay, Sam, okay", Peter says, "you've known these people for like 4 days, maybe they need more time".

"Well, I don't know, Ace has already stated he doesn't want to talk to anyone, Ves could've killed Joe, and Joe is kind of a... he's nice but he's not a good person", Sam admits.

"What do you mean?", Peter asks.

"He just wants to do whatever he pleases, he's breaking rules all of the time, he did beat Ves, Ace and me in a three against one battle on day two, and he's escaped from the island with Teo this morning, cause the two of them wanted to go shopping", Sam spits out, "and Teo, well, Teo's just Teo, but he's... I don't know".

"Sam, you're complicating things", Peter sighs.

"You remember those guys we'd see around parks at night?", Sam breathes out, "those guys you want to stay away from?".

"I do", Peter nods, "those would be called punks".

"Well, Teo and Joe just seem like those kind of guys sometimes", Sam admits.

"Right, well, lucky you", Peter says scratching his head, "so... you're not getting along with your teammates, that's basically the gist of it".

"Yeah, we have a deal not to talk to each other right now, techinacally, though they keep breaking in order to argue", Sam explains, "and besides, I talk to Joe, and Teo as well, I think?".

"You talk to the two punks?", Peter reiterates, "that's... a bold choice, buddy".

"Not exactly a choice", Sam shrugs, "I mean the other two... are just complicated honestly, they are all so complicated".

"So, you're not doing well?", Peter asks.

"I don't know", Sam sighs, "I have no idea, I just... this was not what I was expecting, you know".

"Right, I get it, I could say the same", Peter looks around the hallway.

"Yeah, it would be cool if we all stayed together", Sam says, "the four of us, then whoever was fifth wouldn't really matter".

"That's nice to think about, but it's not how it is", Peter reminds him. Catching Sam's spirit sinking even lower he adds: "look, Sam, just keep pushing through, eventually, they'll see who you are, and you'll do well, alright?".

"I don't know Pete, I don't think I can see who I am any longer", Sam says in defeat, "I... I haven't been myself lately, I can barely manage to utter a word to these guys, I feel nervous all the time, and I've been getting carried away in their arguments as well".

"Sam, it's just the beginning, it will be alright", Peter tries to calm him down, "it's all new to you, that's why you're nervous, and it's new for them too, that's why they are like that, you'll get through to them with time, I know you".

"How do you know me?", Sam asks.

"We're friends", Peter says.

"Are we?", Sam questions, "you know I only called you because I knew Fred wouldn't pick up".

"I do", Peter says, "honestly, I was surprised you called me, it's not like we talk that much".

"We've all just been revolving around Fred since we were kids, didn't we?", Sam smiles weakly.

"Mostly, yeah", Peter says.

"You know, maybe he's right to be mad at me", Sam says, "he probably should've gotten in instead of me, he'd do much better than me".

"Don't say that", Peter rolls his eyes.

"Hey, I haven't won a single battle since I've gotten here", Sam says, "not on my own, at least, everyone just keeps knocking me out all the time, and I can't seem to make a move".

"Really?", Peter laughs, "you actually suck that much?".

"Well, I did manage to do a few things in the last battle I had", Sam traces a finger down his cheek, "I even knocked out my opponent".

"See, so it's not all so bleak", Peter shrugs.

"Guess you're right, but everyone else just seems to be so much better at this than I am", Sam says.

"I don't know what to say buddy, get good", Peter says playfully.

"Hey, I never knew you could be such a jerk", Sam laughs.

"Yeah, well, you don't know a lot about me", Peter smiles at him.

"Yeah, that's true", Sam says, "it's okay if we talk like that sometimes, right?".

"Well, I'm not exactly mister popular as of right now, so having someone to talk to would be nice", Peter says.

"Right, same thing here", Sam says softly.

"Hey, one more thing, then I have to go", Peter says enthusiastically, "you should introduce me to your partner pokemon, you did get one, right?".

"Um, right, I did", Sam says taken aback, "but didn't I semd you a picture already". Rembering better, he shifts in his place: "no, right, I sent it to Fred".

"Clearly, you have a favourite", Peter rolls his eyes playfully, "cmon, just show me, I wanna know what you've got".

"Alright, alright", Sam says with a smile, taking Yamper's pokeball out of his pocket and releasing his partner. The small dog yelps happily, as Sam invites him to clim on his lap. "This is Bolt", Sam says proudly, as Yamper takes a curiois peek at the screen.

"Oh, an electric type", Peter says as he watches Yamper swing his legs energetically, "yeah, that adds up".

"Right, he's great", Sam says, noticing his partner's tongue reach for his friend's face. "Hey, stop that, don't lick-", Sam says grabbing Yamper's jaw, just to quickly jerk his hand away in pain. "Dide, he shocked me", the boy cries out.

"And I suppose he licked me as well", Peter bursts out laughing.

"Um, yes, yes he did", Sam says with a grin, "I'll have to wipe my screan real good".

"Hey, I love your partner already", Peter points out, "at least you have him".

"Yeah", Sam nods, "at least I have him".

"Right", Peter's voice turns insecure, "guess I'll be the one hanging up then, since your phone is covered in spit".

"That would be good", Sam admits, "I'll call you, you can call too, whenever you want".

"Alright buddy", Peter says, waving at him with a small smile, "have a nice day, and I'll see you later".

"Right, see you later", Sam takes a second too long to respond, his words linger against the hang-up screen.

"Well, that was something for sure", he hears a voice above him. Jolting around, he finds himslef face to face with a culprit. A lean boy, looking a bit older than Sam, gives him a warm smile. Running his fingers through his mullet, he says: "sorry if I scared you".

"You were eavesdropping?", Sam shifts in his seat uncomfortably.

"Not exactly", the boy laughs, "I mean, I was just sitting there, and you were not exactly quiet".

"Still, not cool", Sam scoffs.

"Oh, cmon, I'm sorry for sticking my nose in your bussines", the boy says lightly, deciding to land himslef right next to Sam, giving Yamper a quick pinch on the cheek. Small dog quickly retracts, digging his head into Sam's hoodie. "Name's Stanley by the way", the boy winks at Sam.

"Sam", the boy gives a short reply.

"So, Sam, I hear you're having some trouble", Stanley smiles at him.

"It's none of your bussines", Sam says sharply. Stanley's leisurely demeanor is highly off-putting, as far as the strangers go, nosy ones weren't exactly Sam's favourite, especially not in this school.

"Oh, come on", Stanley scratches his head, "I'm just trying to be nice here, you know".

"Why would you do that?", Sam responds with a dry smile.

"Just for the hell of it", the boy shrugs.

"Right", Sam says suspiciously.

"Hey, now, we're all in the same boat here you know, we're all new here, you know", Stanley says, leaning in closer, "maybe I have my problems too, you know".

"You're a first year?", Sam asks, mostly because he's not sure how else he'd respond. And Stanley does seem a bit older.

"Yeah, and isn't it fun", Stanley shifts his face into a dry grimace, "first year of high school, huh, definitely not like the movies".

"I don't know", Sam shrugs, "feels like a beginning of a horror drama for me personally". He chuckles lightly at his own joke.

"Oh, yeah, mine feels like very boring documentary", Stanley laughs.

"Right, well, what's up with you?", Sam raises his eyebrow.

"Well, I'm the weakest guy on my team you know", Stanley's shoulders go tense, but he's still smiling, "so that's fun, and it doesn't help that the rest of my teammates are like, experts, don't know if you get me".

"Oh, now you're just lying", Sam says, "you've heard me talk about that as well, right".

Stanley gives him a look of genuine surprise, bringing his right hand to his chest: "honest to God, no, I mean I did hear you, but I tried not to pay attention, you know".

"So you did hear it", Sam raises an eyebrow.

"Not sure", Stanley laughs, "even if I did, it didn't register, honestly".

"Right", Sam clears his throat, deciding he doesn't want the conversation going back to him, "so, you're having trouble with your teammates".

"Nah, wouldn't call it trouble", Stanley admits, "I mean, it's not like they give a shit, you know, they're all pretty confident our team will pass regardless of how I do, so they don't really care".

"Well, then, what are you complaining about?", Sam scoffs, "my teammates complain constantly".

"That must suck, having to listen to them", Stanley admits, "but even if I don't have to hear it, I still know I'm the weakest link, you know".

"Yeah, guess that sucks too", Sam scratches his head apologetically. A sting of guillt raises through his body. Maybe he had judged Stanley too soon.

A loud beep coming from Stanley's phone props the boy to take it out. He looks over the screen. "Oh, speaking of my teammates", he says abesntmindedly as he starts typing away, "here they are, informing me of my schedule for the day".

"You guys have a schedule?", Sam says.

"Well, it's not exactly a schedule, more like, them deciding they want to train and informing me I have to come along", Stanley admits, "apparently, I have to be in the training center in an hour".

"So, you guys all train together?", Sam questions, thinking back to his own teammates. One of them is currently fast asleep, one of them is having a very bitter breakfast, and the other two are in the middle of the ocean. "That must be nice", Sam says lowly.

"Trust me, it's not", Stanley laughs, "basically, I just end up watching them and feeling incompetent".

"Yeah, I get it", Sam admits, "it sucks".

"It does", Stanley confirms, "and how are things on your end".

"Well, I'm literally the last one in the rankings", Sam decides to admit. It's not like Stanley couldn't have found that out himself. "So you can imagine how that goes", he adds, rolling his eyes.

"Oh, that's rough", Stalney keeps laughing, "so I take it you get a lot of shit".

"Yeah", Sam nods, "I guess it's not all without reason though, I'm not really good at battling".

"Oh, come on, don't say that", Stanley wraps his arm around him, "we haven't even been pokemon trainers for a full week, you know".

"Well, my teammates are much better than me", Sam admits, "some of them".

"Mine are better than me as well, so what", Stanley shrugs, "doesn't mean I'm bad, or that I will never get better".

"Guess you're right", Sam forces a smile.

"Of course I am", Stanley says firmly, typing away on his phone again. He stops, giving Sam a conspiring look: "hey, how about you and I have a battle?".

"A battle?", Sam says in surprise, "like right now?".

"Yeah, I mean, I have almost an hour free", Stanley shrugs, "and you don't really seem like you have any plans".

"Well, I don't", Sam scratches his head.

"Good, then we can have a battle", Stanley raises his finger, "it will be good way for both of us to gain experiance".

"Um, but do we have time?", Sam points out, "I mean, we have to find a professor and all of that, and we don't have classes today, so I don't know where we would find them".

"Oh", Stanley says in surprise, "right, about that, most of the professors won't referee my battles, they don't exactly like my partner, you know".

"Oh, right, right", Sam nods along, "I know, so they are all really like that".

"Unfortunately", Stanley scratches his head, "so um, I hoped you'd be okay with bending the rules a bit".

"I don't know", Sam drops his voice lower. He could almost hear Ace yelling at him.

"I mean, cmon, everybody's doing it", Stanley sighs, "you know, this system is kind of unfair, and we all have to work around it".

"Yeah, it kind of is rigged", Sam ackowledges, "well, I guess, since we're all kind of in the similar boat...". It wouldn't be his first time breaking rules, Sam thought, and Stanley seemed trustworthy. Besides, he was itching for a chance to battle again. After facing off Mai and Leah yesterday, he felt as if he grew just a little bit." I guess I'm cool with it", the boy decided.

"Great", Stanley shoot up from the bench, "let's go then". Typing away on his phone, he made sure Sam was following: "cmon, I know a place".

Quick walk later, Stanley led Sam into a small garden, just a mile away from boy's dormitory. The two made their way inside through one of many widenings in the iron fences, walking through the walls of bushes into an opening. The space was under rule of weeds, but the bushes kept it hidden from the outside. The spot was, once upon a time, planned to be used as a sort of nursery, Stanley explained. The school board thought the students needed to gain some experiance in nurturing pokemon, and it would allow for an on-island source of wild pokemon. They had thought grass and bug types would be suitable subject for such an attempt, but were ultimately proven wrong after a series of poisoning and almost deathly alergic reactions. The project was abondoned shortly after, but they never bothered to get rid of this place. Stanley seemed exceedingly proud of knowing all of this, Sam thought.

"Anyways, we have to be quick", Stanley whisper-yells, taking his position, "people usually don't come here, especially not this early in the morning, but it can still happen".

"Alright, I'm ready", Sam says with a smile, standing opposite of him. As Yamper happily takes his battle stance, Sam realises this is the first time he feels excited to get into a battle. He knew what to do.

"Alright, here I come then", Stanley says, readily throwing out his pokeball, "let's go, Axew". A small dragon type appeared on the feel, a look in his eyes almost sinister. Sam couldn't help noticing its fangs.

"Hey, an Axew, that's super rare", Sam says almost too loudly.

"Right", Stanley says with a smirk, "and I'm warning you, we're not weak either".

"Alright, then, we'll start", Sam is ready to go, "Bolt, use Howl".

"Okay, then, use Hone Claws, Axew", Stanley commands. "Two can play that game, buddy", he winks at Sam.

Deciding to take a page from Joe's book, Sam doesn't waste time answering. "Nuzzle, now", he demands instead. Yamper is quick to react, starting his run-up. As he watches sparks gather around his partner's legs, Sam feels his confidence grow. Axew line is rare and strong for sure, but this unenvolved form is not the fiercest opponent. Yamper wouldn't have a problem with matching its speed.

"Well, that's not going to fly", Stanley says firmly, "dodge it, then use Thief". Axew, with a nimble movement, get out of Yamper's way, quickly digging its black-flashing-claw into the small dog's side. "Now, Hone Claws, again", Stanley yells, Yamper howls out in pain.

"Get away, Bolt", Sam commands, realising the trouble he's in. Yamper needed to gain some distance for Nuzzle to work, getting in close from the start was a mistake.

"No running, you're mine now", Stanley exclaims, "Scratch, now".

"Dodge it", Sam says desperatly, but it's no use. There's no missing from that distance, especially not after setting up Hone Claws twice. He can only watch as Axew's claws rip across Yamper's fur.

"Now, finish him, Scratch, again", Stanley orders up.

"Use Bite, counter him", Sam tries, thinking there might be a way to intercept. Yamper tosses around wildly, clenching his jaw, but Axew proves to be too agile, easily avoiding the attack before landing the finishing blow. As Yamper's limp body hit the ground, Sam immediately run up to his partner.

"Hey, it was a good battle", Stanley says, still standing in his place.

"Yeah, yeah, it was", Sam tries to keep his spirit high, as he softly pets Yamper, before recalling him. He needs to hit up the pokemon center.

A flash of blue he sees in the corner of his eyes means Stanley has recalled Axew as well. "Hey, really, it was good", the boy's voice comes from above him now, "you were just a bit hasty there, that's all".

"Yeah, right", Sam clears his throat, standing up to face his opponent, "guess there's a reason I'm last on the list, huh".

"Well, maybe", Stanley laughs, "but I wouldn't threat it too much, you know, we've been here for less than a week, may I remind you".

"Guess you're right", Sam scratches his head. Excitement and dissapointment mix inside him in the weirdest way possible. He lost, yet again. But he actually managed to do something this time, on his own. Though, he'd be much happier if one of his attacks actually landed.

"Well, I have to go now", Stanley says checking his phone, "my teammates love to come a bit early, don't mind me. You do know your way back, right?".

"Right, I do", Sam confirms, as he watches Stanley hurriedly approach the bushes. "Hey", he says behind him, "thanks dude, I hope we can battle again".

"Oh, yeah", Stanley says, giving him a quick look, "sure dude no trouble, this was fun".

"Yeah, it was", Sam says with a smile, quickly making his way to the bushes as well, following Stanley out into the open.

"Well, gotta jolt now", Stanley gives him a quick smile, "in a hurry, sorry".

"Yeah, no worries, I get it", Sam waves him off, "I better hit up the pokemon center as well". Stanley gives him a short wave in return, before turning around and basically sprinting towards the main building. Sam stands there for a second, dumbfounded and waiting for him to dissapear from his sight. He's supposed to go in the same direction, and it feels stupid just following after the guy. Moments later, he starts walking as well.

Inside the pokemon center, he comes up with a quick lie about his Yamper being too tired from the training in order to get him healed. He notices the nurse's glance, but doesn't pay it much mind. They all probably already knew the students were having battles that were against the rules. They knew how this school worked. Besides, Yamper's injuries weren't that specific, he took a few Scratch attacks, that's all, even if they took him out of the pokeball for inspection, his injuries could easly be written off.

Waiting for the healing to be over, he mostly thought about people. Fred and Peter, and even Liam kept crossing his mind. For the most times, he just kept thinking about his teammates. It couldn't be helped. As he watched the rest of the students walk together in groups of five, waves of hurt started washing over him. This was what he wanted. He watched as one group of boys sat at the pokemon center couch, happily chatting away. They were visibly older than him, and seemed very close. Aware that he was in there all alone, he wiped the sweat off of his palms. Imagining his friends and himself on that couch, just talking away, didn't help. It could've been like that. Fred, Peter, Liam and him, they could've been like that, he saw it so clearly, a what-if vision stabbimg into his chest restlessly. His mind kept craving those phantom of a perfect world, and the boy slowly sunk deeper into it. If it was up to him, the four of them would be there, and number five would be Dean. And that would be perfect. But it wasn't, and he knew it wasn't. He's watched things fall apart for the whole summer, thinking he could ignore him. But now his friends weren't there, Fred was ignoring him, and he was stuck with four other guys that had seemed so foreign. Maybe he was the one who was foreign, and that was the worst part. Somewhere deep inside, he couldn't fight it. Peter tried convincing him, and even Stanley did, that there was time. But what if there wasn't? He lost again. He hasn't won a single battle since he came here. Sure, not everyone was on the same level, but he felt as if he's always a few steps behind everyone else. What if it just stays that way forever?

Walking out of the pokemon center, his thoughts were in shambles. Day had just begun, the way it's supposed to. Few aimless steps in front of the main building, he heard somebody yelling after him. "Hey, Sam, Sam!", he recognised Marc's voice immediately.

Turning around he saw the blond boy running up to him, with Henry following close by, his Mienfoo in step. Dean was not with them, unfortunately. "Hey, dudes", Sam summoned up some enthusiasm.

"Yo, you wanna come train with us?", Marc shoves an energetic high five his way, "Hen and I were just about to go into the training center, then we'll go and have a battle".

"Maybe don't yell out that last part", Henry reminds him.

"Right, I forgot", Marc says with a scoff.

Thinking about the invite, Sam feels a bit nervous. Stanley was in the training center right now, he knew. "Um, no, really not up for that, thanks for invite", he says deciding that going in after his new friend might make him look desparate, "I think I'll just train outside".

"Right, that's cool as well", Marc scratches his head, looking sincerely dissapointed.

"The important thing is you train", Hemry nods in understanding, his Mienfoo mimicing the gesture.

"Right, I will", Sam says, "where's Dean, by the way, and Lesley? And Andrei as well?".

"Oh, those three have their own very delicate dynamic that Marc and I stay out of", Henry says with a hint of a smile.

"Right, Lesley is constantly bugging Andrei, Andrei is telling him to fuck off", Marc raises his finger, "and Dean makes sure the two of them don't kill each other".

"Right, well, seems like your team functions at least", Sam laughs.

"Yeah, it's tricky, but we make do", Henry admits.

"Yeah, well, the two of us are actually the powerhouses of the team", Marc points out, "we just let Lesley believe he's the lead, you know, the two of us are actually smarter and stronger, and much better looking".

"Techinaclly, Lesley is the smartest, his test scores are the highest", Henry points out, "and Marc, he did beat you in battle twice".

"Well, I won twice as well against him", Marc says defensively, "so we're at a tie".

"Since you have a dark type and he has a psychic type, I'd say his wins over you hold much more weight", Henry says.

"Oh, cmon, Lesley's not the best on our team", Marc complains.

"That's not what I said", Henry shrugs, "I am the best, Lesley is second".

"Right, so what, I'm the third place then?", Marc scoffs.

"Exactly", Henry nods, "I mean he did manage to squeeze one win against me, which none of you ever did".

"Okay, but he has an advantage over you", Marc points out.

"Wouldn't say that that matters", Henry says simply, "a win is a win".

"Oh, so now a win is a win", Marc yells, "but when I tie him, then the types matter?".

"Marc, you do understand that Lesley is playing with a handicap right now?", Henry gives him a calculated look, "Spoink isn't exactly the best pick for a pokemon battles you know, he might be a bit annoying, but Lesley's doing exceptionally well with what he has been given".

"Right", Marc's energy drops.

"I mean, look at Dean and Andrei", Henry goes on, "their partners aren't exactly suited for battles either, and they are struggling, Lesley, on the other hand, is the one who can overcome his adversity".

"Alright, I get it, Lesley's good", Marc wails in defeat, "I knew he was good, you know, he's just a bit annoying, that's all".

"Well, your team is interesting", Sam joins in on their little scuffle, "with us there's not too much thinking, Joe's the best, then Ves, and Ace would be third I guess".

"Oh, yeah, Joe is an absolute monster", Marc says, "he's definitely on par with Henry, he beat me like three times in a row yesterday".

"Oh, right, you guys went your own yesterday", Sam remembers. A sting in his stomach he adds: "are you guys like, friends now, or?".

"I... I'm not sure", Marc scratches his head, "I mean, Joe's a cool guy, but he's hard to read, him and Hen are the same when it comes to that, you just don't know if they like you or not". Sam feels a bit better knowing he's not the only one getting this kind of treatmant from Joe.

"Hey, since we're talking about Joe", Henry says, "tell him there's a tournament tomorrow, it starts at noon, I'm pretty sure he's going to want to come and watch".

"Right, Lesley told us about it last night", Marc adds, "and we didn't get to tell him, you know".

"What kind of tournament?", Saam tilts his head in confusion, his nerves jolting at the sheer mention of the word.

"Oh, the 16 best ranked students in the fourth year decided to set up an exhibition tournament", Henry says, "and apparently, they got professors to agree to make it a half-official thing".

"Right, it will be held in the school's stadium", Marc points out, "and spectators are allowed, I'm sure Joe would like to come watch, especially since the little four is taking part, you know".

"What's the little four?", Sam's even more confused now.

"Oh, you don't know?", Marc says, "well, they are just a bunch of very strong guys".

"They are the four best ranked students in the fourth year", Henry stops Marc's explanation, "they say they were prodigies ever since they came to Old King's, they reminded people of the elite four, so they started calling them the little four".

"Oh, so they are like super strong", Sam says deep in thought, "wait, is Joe like the part of little four in our year then?".

"No, you don't get it", Henry shakes his head, "these guys are something else".

"Right, the current fourth year is something else, that's what Lesley says", Marc nods, "they call them the golden generation".

"The entire year is full of the strongest trainers Old King's ever seen", Henry confirms, "and these four have been at the top ever since their first year, that's what the school mythos says, at least".

"Right, last year, when they were third years, they set up a tournament with fourth years", Marc explains.

"And how did it go?", Sam's gotten sucked into the urban legend.

"The golden generation beat them into the ground", Henry says, "it wasn't even close".

"Wait, really?", Sam says in surprise, "that has to be a lie".

"No", Marc says, "there are official recording of the battles in the school library".

"Yeah, they are pretty hard to get though", Henry confirms, "Lesley managed to take out one of them on our first day, so we've watched one of the battles".

"Unfortunately, it wasn't anyone from the little four", Marc says in a dissapointed tone, "those are like, super hard to get".

"Lesley did manage to dig up one of their tournaments from the first year though", Henry says, "and yeah, any member of the little four at our age could probably take on both Marc and I, and Joe along with us, and it wouldn't even be close".

"Well, okay, now", Marc crosses his arms, "now you're taking it a bit too far, the three of us would put up a good fight".

"We would lose, and you would fall first", Henry says simply.

"Right", Marc scoffs, "the point is, they are super strong, and you guys should come watch".

"Yeah, just tell Joe when he comes back from Lilicove", Henry says, "I don't know if we'll have time to catch him in the morning".

"Um, what", Sam says turning red, "Joe's in our room, sleeping".

"Yeah, right", Marc laughs, "calm down dude, he told us about his little trip".

"Yeah, no need to worry", Henry nods, "it's not like we'd rat you off".

"Yeah, you guys are currently the only ones we can trust to go and have an illegal battle with", Marc states.

"Right, it would be stupid to get rid of you guys now", Henry shrugs.

"Though Andrei did suggest we do that", Marc scratches his head.

"But no one's listening to Andrei, no worries", Henry is quick to give reassurance.

"Right, right", Sam says taking a step back, "I... I'll make sure I tell the other guys". At this point, Sam not even sure if his teammates ever listen to a thing he says, but he makes a promise regardless. All this talk about getting rid of them starts wrecking his nerves. He did just have a battle with a guy he had barely met. Stanley did seem nice, though, Sam calmed himself down. "I gotta go now", the boy gave a quick excuse, "gonna do some training as well".

"We'll be off as well, then", Henry says rotating in place, ready to go.

"Yeah, see you around Sam", Marc gives him a small wave, before practically dragging Henry into the main building. Those two are definitely into it, Sam thinks.

Releasing Yamper on the spot, the boy can see his partner is all healed up. There's a nauseous itch in him to do some training, all this thoughts and talks of other strong trainers doesn't bore well on his psyche. Yamper seems to be out of it though, and the boy remembers he hasn't fed his pokemon yet. Feeling guilty, he recalls Yamper again, making a quick way to the market street. It's his first time visiting, the place is basically just a street crowded with mostly food-related shops. Walking around he checks windows of different shops. A few botiques, a barber shop, even a cinema was available to the students on the island. A laser-tag and the arcade reminded of his friends yet again. The ice cream shop dug that dagger even deeper. Ice cream was, unfortunately, not an acceptable breakfast. Now that he had a pokemon, he'd have to act responsibly. He picked out a small shop that had a sign offering a special deal on the combo meal - meat salad for the trainers and a mix bowl of pokeblocks and pokepuffs for their partner. It was financially acceptable offer too, not that he had too much money on him. He did come to regret not picking up any pokemon food in the cafeteria as soon as his wallet became a few pokedollars lighter. Yamper seemed to be ecstatic about getting a special treat, so maybe it was worth it. His salad tasted great as well, the boy hadn't realised how hungry he was.

Walking out of the shop, he decided to get an ice cream as well. He deserved it. After all, he's survived this social hell hole of a high school for four days straight. Sparing no expenses, he took three scoops, two chocolate ones, with a pecha berry one placed in the middle. It was absolute heaven. Yamper didn't seem to like it though. The pokemon did like the sitrus berry flavour one that Sam had gotten him either. The boy ended up eating that one as well. It was goddamn good, and he couldn't put his finger down on why his partner didn't like it. Maybe Yamper just doesn't like ice cream in general, the boy came to a rather painful conclusion.

The rest of his day went by slowly. He went for another run, opting to run on the beach this time. Sand might be a better surface for Yamper, it's softer,

and harder to run on. That should help his partner increase his speed a bit faster. It was not the most pleasant experiance, as the sand kept getting into his shoes and eyes constantly. Yamper didn't seem to like it either. On his run, he found a few trees that looked about ready to be Nuzzled. He was quick to give up on that idea. It's not like that kind of training bore much results for him. Nuzzle isn't going to get much stronger, not when his partner can't gain speed. He sticks to running, for most of the day really. He doesn't really wish to go back to the dorm. Not when Ace and Ves are there alone, both breathing fire, probably. Making a few breaks for rest and eating, he just keeps running the entire day. Sam had never thought he'd catch himself wishing the classes were on.

Sitting down on the sand, he watched as the sky turned pink. Doing his best to even out his breathing, he recalled Yamper, who seemed to be on the verge of fainting. They ended up spending the whole day outside, training. Sam didn't take it to hard, he was used to being active, and he had some unresolved issues fueling him. His partner, on the other hand, evidently wasn't a trained runner, and the boy was scared that he might've pushed him too far. With a wish of buying another treat, he checked his wallet, only to discover that he'll probably stick to cafeteria food for the following few days. Maybe Teo and Joe pick up some treats during their little escapade.

In the sky, he sees a black blob. A pokemon, he concludes, and not a small one either. As the black shadow starts growing bigger and bigger, Sam clutches onto his pokeball. The island is supposed to be rid of wild pokemon, he knew that. It dawned on him that that was not a guarantee, it's not like they had a way of keeping the flying pokemon out. Fear growing in him, he was praying a rocket would come shooting from the school building, taking out the black blob. Theere were no rockets, and the shadow just kept growing bigger and bigger. Picking himslef up from the ground, and dusting off sand, Sam was ready to run from it. Not sure if he could outrun a flying type, and this one seemed to be rather fast. Growing bigger, he could recognise the pokemon. Mandibuzz. Not good, he thought, turning on his heel, ready to jolt, but he stopped mid-step. On Mandibuzz's back, he saw a shape of a person. A sense of relief washed over him. It was a trained pokemon. He faced it with curiosity now that he knew.

The vulture approached the shore at rapid pace, coming to a full stop just a few feet away from Sam. Using his arm as a sand shield, Sam peeked out to see who was riding the flying and dark type. To his surprise, it was professor Nolan. The man was standing tall next to his pokemon, fixing his yellowish trench coat, a carry-on bag hanging from one of his shoulder.

"Um, hello", Sam's not sure what's the right way to react, "hello professor".

"Hello", Professor says not looking up at him, "Sam, right?".

"Yeah, that's right", Sam scratches his head, "um, I'm sorry". The boy's not sure what he's apologising for.

"Everything's alright", professor says, giving him a discerning look. "No worries", the man says, "you didn't see anything you weren't supposed to, I'm a professor, I can leave the island whenever I want to, you know".

"Right, right", Sam wasn't quite sure that was the sole reason for his confusion.

"What, you didn't expect something like this from me", professor Nolan laughs lightly, fixing his glasses in the process.

"Um, I... don't know", Sam confesses, "I... thought you weren't a trainer, so".

"Oh, no, no, I most definitely not", professor reassures him, "I am a historian though, so I have a pokemon holder license".

"Right", Sam says still confused, "I didn't know that was a thing".

Professor sighs. "I am an official member of the research unit of world's historian's society", his explanation seems practiced, "we get assigned pokemon partners to help with the field work".

"Okay, I didn't mean to insult you, I'm sorry", Sam's cheeks turn red, "I just...didn't think historians need pokemon".

"Well, they tend to come in handy when you're visiting archeological sites and similar spots", professor says with a laugh, "and can be quite a handy mode of transportation, which you've seen already". The man recalls his Mandibuzz.

"Right, yes, you're right", Sam coughs, "I just didn't expect it, that's all, especially since you have a dark type, and I thought you didn't really like those".

"I do not, in fact", professor nods, "however, Mandibuzz is a very capable flyer, they do reside in rather hars environments, you know, that's why the association often assignes them to their members".

"Right, that... that makes sense", Sam says in embarrassment.

"In fact it does", professor's mouth twists into a confident smile, "what makes no sense is why would a kid be hanging out at a beach all alone". Giving him a knowing glance over his glasses: "I take it you didn't come out here with an idea of being a welcoming committee for your mentor".

"I was just doing some training", Sam explains, "that's all".

"Right, most kids tend to train with their team", professor clears his throat, "guess I'm not surprised you're out here alone, though".

"Why?", Sam asks, utterly confused.

"Your teammates are... a rather curious bunch", the man points out.

"Oh, you mean what happened in our introductory meeting?", Sam scratches his head, "yeah, that was definitely a bit uncomfortable, but they are... it's not like they are bad". Sam's not sure why he's defending the other four boys, especially he doesn't believe these defences himself.

"It's a complicated topic, I get it", professor sighs, "you are all kids after all, it wouldn't be fair to come to the conclusion on your characters so soon, but still...". Stopping for a bit to look into the sand, professor thinks his next words through. "I am a historian, reading people is a part of the job sometimes, Sam", he decides, "I've mentored a few generations as well, you know, it's not like I can't see some things".

"What things do you see?", Sam asks.

"Sometimes, Sam, things aren't perfect", professor claims distantly, "the personality test is a good idea in theory, but it is flawed in practice".

"What do you mean, flawed?", Sam inches in closer, as if the man's words are drawing him in.

"It's simple math, it's impossible to create 30 teams that work well together", professor continues, "the board does the best they can, I believe, but sometimes there are teams that just...that are put together because they had to be".

"Like destiny?", Sam wonders.

"Like scraps", professor says simply, "sometimes, there are certain kids who just can't be put into a team that makes sense".

"So they are just put into a random team cause they don't really belong anywhere else?", the thought crosses Sam's mind for the first time, causing a stiring ache in his stomach, "like leftovers".

"Perhaps you can say it like that", professor nods shortly.

"You...you think we're that team, professor?", Sam asks already knowing the answer.

"I did see your files, and I did meet you boys", professor notes, "I also do know what type of partners they tend to assign to what kind of kid".

"So you're saying my team is just... just a...", Sam's not sure what word to use. A fucking mess, thrown together for the hell of it? He can't say that to a professor.

"I think it's unfortunate", professor says, "that's what experiance leads me to believe, at least, though it might still be too early to say".

"Yeah, it's still too early to say", Sam confirms, trying to regain hope.

"Well, the point of this conversation Sam", professor looks away at the horizon, "believe it or not, is not to make you feel bad".

"Yeah, I know", Sam says trying to keep his voice convincing.

"You seem like a good kid, and it's not that I'm saying your teammates are bad people", professor continues, "but I could tell from the first day that you'd find fitting in with them... troublesome".

"Really? You did?", Sam swallows his own bitter feelings.

"I did, it's wasn't hard to tell from the way you reacted to their behaviour", professor nods, "and, again, I had your files, and I know a thing or two about how partner pokemon are assigned as well".

"Well, what made you think it?", Sam questions, "what made you think I don't belong in this team?".

"The test results are confidential, so I can't speak on that", professor says, "as for the partner pokemon, well, you've seen my reaction".

"Right, you don't like dark types", Sam nods along, "or fighting types".

"Well, it's not necessarily about the typing", professor explains, "it's about the pokemon species as well, and those do tell you a lot about a kid, you know".

"Yeah, right, you did say that", Sam clesrs his throat, "that their pokemon are dangerous". In his mind, a picture of Houndour shooting Ember at Joe appears clear as day. He remembers Riolu as well, blasting the black dog away then attacking Ves.

"Yes, it is a part of their nature", professor nods, "those three speacies of pokemon tend to fight viciously, they don't spare their opponents, they don't show mercy".

"Right", Sam says, knowing this to be true. He's read up about these pokemon, even when he was a kid, but especially after meeting his teammates. He did already know this, but professor's word made him believe it's all true. "And what about Ace?", he grabbed at the last string of hope, even though he could already tell it would snap, "Rockruff's not dangerous".

"Rockruff is not, but Lycanrock is", professor says, "and rock types are...they are usually given to the kids who are stuck in their ways". These were the words Sam had expected to hear.

"So you think they are all...", yet again, Sam can't find the right word.

"Branding 14 year olds wouldn't be a right thing to do Sam, and it's not my place", professor says firmly, "all I want to say with this is that I am aware of the kids I am mentoring, all of you".

"Right", Sam says, his cheeks turning red, "I can tell".

"That to say, I am supposed to be your mentor", professor continues, "I might not be able to help much when it comes to pokemon battles, but I can certainly offer guidance".

"Right, thank you", Sam nods.

"No need to thank me", professor chuckles slowly, "it is a part of my job to be there for my students whenever possible".

"Yeah", Sam feels a need to resond somehow.

"Well, don't let this bother you too much", professor's voice turns nonchalant, "I just wanted to let you know I do percive the situation among my students, and that I am ready to help with any problems of that kind".

"Right, thank you very much", Sam says repeatedly.

"Well, this might be a weird situation to have a conversation like this", the man runs his fingers through his hair absemtmindedly, "but the point is, my doors are always open if you have any problems, I just wanted to make sure you know that". Sam just nods, again not sure what to think of all of this. "Well, not that I can be sure if you have any problems, it is just a hunch, after all", professor says, "though, judging from your reactions right now, I'd deduce I'm not far off the mark".

"I mean... it's not... exactly easy, talking to them", Sam somewhat confesses.

Professor nods in understanding. "Then it's good I've stumbled upon you like this", he says, "it wouldn't be alright if I said some of these things in the classroom, and I'm not sure you would've come to me on your own".

"I probably wouldn't", Sam scratches his head.

"Yeah, I'd guess that much", professor's laugh feels heavy, "now that you know I have understanding of your situation, I hope that changes".

"Yes, I get it, thank you, professor", Sam says, "really, thank you very much".

"Do come around my office if you ever feel the need to talk", professor offers a small wave, "I think it would be for the best I don't say anything else right now, this could already count as crossing boundaries".

"Yeah, right, I'll be sure to come along if anything ever comes up", Sam nods with a smile. A sense of gratefulness growing inside of him, for a mentor who seems to actually seems ready to talk and help out. Not that Sam had any plans of going and complaining about his teammates to their mentor, that would be too childish, it was just nice knowing the possibility exists.

"Glad to hear that", professor Nolan said taking a slow step away, "now I must leave you to your own devices".

"Right, see you in class, professor", Sam says out of common courtesy. Watching the man leave, the nerves start pressing on his chest again. Professor's words keep ringing through him, what the man had said, that their team was basically just scrapped together. The exact thought hadn't crossed the boy's mind before, but the feeling of unease was always there. From the firsr time he saw his teammates it was there. A part of him refused to believe it, clinging on to the few similarities between them. The four other boys seemed to be pretty similar in a sense. Neither of them were very friendly. But Sam didn't fit into that. Joe and Ves seemed to like battling. Teo and Ves seemed to be a bit agressive. Ace and Joe were clean freaks. Teo and Ace hated when others ask personal questions. Ace and Ves seemed to like the drama. Teo and Joe liked breaking rules. Maybe those were not the healthiest things to share, but they all had something shared. Sam was nowhere to be seen. Joe and him both liked running? That Maybe he liked battling as well? He did like movies. Not as much as Ace did. He was disconnected. The numbing feeling in his gut told him one thing. Sam might be the only leftover-person on their team.