Chapter 32- Raising Flags

It was only after I was done laughing that I took notice of the entire situation. Leaving aside the presence of Jeanne and Klint, the fact that they teleported here means that they were expecting us. Or Jeanne simply felt Nike. Given her insane range, I wouldn’t be surprised. Still, her tendency of teleporting and abducting Nike needed to stop at some point.

I mean look at Mathew. The poor guys had already pulled out a Pokeball by the time Sera calmed him down. Only after he realized that it was nothing serious did he miniaturize it back to its travel size. Nike was back on my head but her giggle didn’t fade.

“Ahem. Sorry about that Mathew. These are my parent's partners. The kidnaping Gardevoir is Jeanne while the late Gallade is Klint. Guys this Mathew, the one I told you about.”

Jeanne made a small curtsy that almost made me choke while Gallade bowed lightly, like a butler. Mathew for his part seemed still taken aback by the sequence. Not that I blame him for that.

“By the way, the fact that you are here means that the two of them are in the city.”

‘Indeed. That was meant to be a surprise but it seemed such endeavors were doomed from the start.’ Gallade was the one to answer, with a copious amount of exasperation accompanying the telepathic message.

He sent it not only to me but to Mathew and Sera as well. The younger trainer's eyes widened, probably because she was not used to the telepathy. It is one thing to know that most psychic types can use it but it is another to experience the real thing. Also with Klint's familiarity, there was no question that she understood everything.

Jeanne to her credit had the decency to look properly chastised. Not that I believed it. Even now she was still looking at Nike with surprise and joy. But now that their plan failed I have one of my own. Time for the same prank twice!

“Ground to Jeanne do you copy?’ I drew her attention while waving my hand in front of her.

Finally, her gaze snapped to me. ‘Ah yes. Good morning to you too.’

I struggled to not roll my eyes at this airhead antics. “Yes, good morning. Since their surprise failed, how about you help me with mine.”

Seeing the grin on my face, both of them matched instantly. I knew that they were as much into mischief as I was. Especially when it came to Nana and Pop’s. The only clueless one was the star of the show.

‘What do you say about surprising the old ones’

‘Yes!’ the enthusiasm in the voice matched ours so the plan was a go.

‘Alright, I will return you for now.’

Her enthusiasm died down a bit but it was still very much present. Once that was done I started to chuckle in anticipation, shortly followed by my accomplices. The sight would no doubt give other people the wrong impression, but it was for a righteous cause.

“I can confirm that it gives the wrong impression. You look like you are about to rob someone.” Sera announced.

“Wait, did I say that aloud?”

“Sure did,” Mathew added.

“Damn it! Oh well, let’s go I want to see their faces.”

With Klint as a guide, we all marched toward the hotel where they were staying. It still took us a good 30-minute walk to get to the hotel. All the while Jeanne had been talking with Nike even while she was in her ball. She was doing most of the heavy lifting seeing that neither I nor Nike were at that level for now.

We reached the hotel and Nana and Pops were already waiting for us at the entrance.

“Well, surprise! Even if it’s not one anymore.” Nana said while eying Jeanne.

“Wow, I am completely shocked I didn’t know you were in town.” I deadpanned to a chorus of groans.

“Haha, very funny kiddo. Seraphina how are you doing? And you must be Mathew.” Pops said.

“I am good thank you, sir!”

“Nice to meet you. Nexon told me a lot about you, sir!”

“Bah drop the sir and just call me George. Also, whatever disparaging comment he made is an absolute lie”

“Now, now, how about we first go inside? I am sure you have to tell us about your travel.” Nana interrupted.

We went inside, and damn these old people were rich. The inside of the hotel was a declaration of wealth all of its own. Fancy carpet on the ground, chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and illuminating the entire room, and of course the fancy art style. I was almost conscious bout entering it given how covered in sweat and dirt we were. Even if the last stretch was short, the sand of the desert was no joke. There was thankfully an outdoor area, and that's where we headed, under a shaded portion. All the while, I have been telling them in more detail about the expedition and the crossing of the desert.

“Oh my, we have to thank you then, young man. Without you, they might have been stuck in that storm.” Nana exclaimed.

“Not at all. I think they are just using me to move outside the routes. Without that, they would have found shelter along the way.

Sera and I exchanged looks since that was our first thought when he joined us. That seemed like an eternity ago.

“You still have our thanks. Now you young man, don’t think I didn’t notice the absence of our little princes. Where is she? Is she at the Pokemon Center? Is she hurt?”

“Nana, please calm down. Everything is fine with Nike. It’s…just … um, maybe it’s easier if I show you.”

I stood up and expanded Nike’s Premier ball to its regular size. Nana seemed worried but Pop’s only looked with a raised eyebrow. I made a show of letting out a big breath before pressing the button and releasing Nike. Once more, she made a show of posing for them.

Nana’s jaw dropped open while Pops just looked at Nike with a serious expression.

“Well kiddo… I’m sorry. I don’t know how to tell you this, but I think it’s irreversible. I’m not an expert, but I think she evolved and-”

Before the old man could finish his rambling, an elbow was driven to his ribs.

“Hush you. Congratulations to you guys. Look at you princess, you are beautiful!” Nana hurried to pick her up.

Nike of course was never on to reject attention so she gladly indulged. Laughter filled the space while Nana was tickling my Pokemon. By now Pops recovered but he was still busy rubbing his ribs. Meanwhile, Sera and Mathew were looking a bit uncomfortable.

“You should meet us later, we’ll go and book the rooms” Mathew announced.

“That might be hard. At least if you are going for the Pokemon center.” Pops stopped him.

“Let me guess it has something to do with why you are here?” I hazarded.

He nodded. “ A couple of events are happening simultaneously. By the way, there is one you should participate in. It is a tournament that is only open for those who have 4 badges or less. I heard the first price is going to be something spicy.”

“Spicy how?” I asked even though I already decided to participate.

“No idea. The whole is pretty closed and I only heard it is going to be valuable for a lot of trainers.”

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“But doesn’t that mean that those with four badges will be more advantaged? What if someone with 1 badge tries to participate?” Sera asked.

“Forget about that. More experienced trainers will have an advantage even if they only have 4 badges.” I added.

“Well if someone has one badge and wants to participate I would feel sorry for them. Life isn’t exactly fair to all. Also, different circumstances mean that someone with one badge could still win the whole thing. “ Pops shrugged.

“How?” Sera asked, incredulous.

“That is a question in itself isn’t it?” he smirked. That guy was clearly enjoying himself.

“ Think about it. What if someone trained since the beginning of the circuit, catching their team and training them before taking on the circuit? Do you still think you can take them on?” Nana saved us.

That made me wonder if I should have done that before discarding it. the set of circumstances that would need to occur to have something like this was pretty specific. If they wanted specific Pokemon they would need to travel the region fast. The easiest would be flying. That would mean you not only had the Pokemon but also the flying license. This means it wouldn’t be a new trainer, maybe someone switching careers. Or a beginner with a lot of money Teleporting around the region. It was pretty outlandish but the fact that I could think about it on the spot meant that it needed to be accounted for to make the maximum profit.

“It still doesn’t stop more experienced trainers,” I grumbled.

“I was getting to it. Don’t worry, I meant 4 badges in general. It’s meant to target newer trainers. There is another tournament for more experienced trainers with better rewards. It's part of the other events I mentioned. Your friend Frank registered there.” He added.

The name drew surprised gazes from me and Sera so Nana continued. “We met them, with the kid, Arnold I think, in Aspertia. And by that, I mean that we brought them with us.” Saying so, she finally released a panting Nike who swiftly came to me.

“Damn, so Arnold?” I asked

Pops nodded. “Already registered for the tournament.”

I clenched my fist at that. All of a sudden I really wanted to go out and train. It was time to get our revenge match.

“Ok, that explains Pops but I would think Nana would come as well.”

“You tell me if my presence bothers you,” she said with mock anger.

“I mean no offense Nana, but aren’t the most fond of battlers.”

“Quite a lot taken. I do like myself a good battle from time to time. Let me remind you that coordinators do have to fight in contests. Which is why I am here. There will be a contest in the city and I was asked to be the invited judge.

That shifted my thoughts from trainer to the promise I made with Nike. Participate in at least one contest together.

“When I the contest?” I asked eagerly

“3 days from now.”

“And when is the tournament?” I turned to Pops

“3 days from now”

I instantly deflated.

“What? Did you want to participate in the contest? You never showed much interest before.”

“I mean…” I looked away.

“Oh! I think he got inspired when seeing a performance between Virbank and Castelia,” Mathew added in what I would describe as the opposite of helpful.

“Ohhh…” The way she drew the syllable sent shivers down my spine while I launched daggers at the ranger. “We’ll talk later. Anyway, I don’t think it would be a good idea. Unless you already trained the move you guys will use?”

“Uh…” I was ready to speak before remembering that we prioritized increasing the move repertoire first.

“That’s what I thought. It’s nice that you took an interest in the contest even if it's a passing one. I would advise you to pass this one and focus on the tournament, but the choice is yours.”

“I think I’ll do that. We can always try another contest, but a tournament as regulated as this one might not come for a long time. What do you say, little princess?”

Nike made a thinking pose before finally nodding in agreement.

“That is good.” Pops nodded.

“Humm we should still leave and try to find a place to stay,” Sera said.

“Don’t mind. There should still be some rooms here so I’ll just get you some.”

Judging by the look on both my companion’s face, they were definitely uncomfortable with the idea. And I honestly couldn’t blame them since even I was not comfortable accepting the offer. I mean, the place was clearly high-class.

“That might be a bit too much help. We can look for a place or worst case we’ll camp not too far from the city.”

“Nonsense! We understand that you want to experience the ‘true traveling trainer’ bit, but there is no need to refuse some help don’t you think?” Nana declared.

“I know, but it is still too much.”

“Ok, how about this, indulge her this time. After that, you will be free to do as you like. Or at least let us pay for it until the tournament ends. “

“George!”

“Come on sweety. I’m sure you can understand that he wants to walk his path without us popping up every time to help. It’s part of the adventure. Remember when we continued to Kalos and your parents followed us there?”

At that, Nana actually blushed and looked ashamed, but not defeated. “That is different, they moved an entire region away. We are already in the same city.”

“But the principle is the same. Let him experience the world.” He said while taking her hand.

She looked like she still wanted to argue but relented after looking at Klint. I could only imagine what he told her to convince her so fast but she finally slumped a little.

“Fine. But then you guys do not argue with us for this time. Besides you wouldn’t be able to find anything in the city.” She huffed.

“But I am honestly surprised. Nimbasa is one of the biggest cities. I didn’t think three events would be enough to fill the center.” I said after shooting a grateful look at the two of them.

“There is another event. And exhibition match but we don’t know the fighter. All we know is that one of them hails from Paldea.” Pops said.

“Again Paldea. It looks like they are really pushing for a closer relationship with Unova.” Sera said.

“Personally, I’m more curious about the Pokemon they will use,” I admitted.

“Of course, you are.” Nana scoffed.

“Now, now, how about we go settle the rooms?” Pops intervened.

“I’ll deal with it. You guys can release your team if you want. But Seraphina and Nexon I’d like you two to come with me to see if they have a trainer’s discount.” Nana said while standing up.

Without the need to be told twice, I release my three Pokemon shortly followed by Sera. She tried to release Tirtouga as well but she stuck to her so much that she decided it was better to have her by her side. The other Pokemon weren’t pleased but accepted the situation. Tia also accompanied me while Nike and Skoll were busy talking to Jeanne and Klint respectively.

Before walking away, I looked at Mathew, but he didn’t seem to mind the situation the situation and was smiling and waving us off while kicking his feet up.

---

The ranger and the old man were the only ones left. They both looked at each other in awkward silence before one of them broke the silence.

“I thank you for taking care of the kiddos. Without you, it might have been dangerous for them in the desert.”

“There are no problems at all. They are quite entertaining to witness.” The ranger answered.

“Do you mind if I ask you a few questions?”

“Please do.”

The older man opened his mouth but paused for a second before looking to the side. Following his gaze, the teams of both Nexon and Sera were discussing something animatedly. The gaze was especially focused on the psychic type of the boy.

“Maybe I’ll come to you later for a conversation. I am curious about the job of a ranger.” The old man smiled while tapping his temple and glanced toward the Gardevoir who subtly nodded. At the same time, he pulled out a journal and seemed focused on it.

Understanding that he didn’t want Nike to listen and potentially talk with the boy, the ranger answered with a nod as well while double-tapping his Mandibuzz’ ball. “I am not sure it will be interesting for you but I would be glad.” He smiled.

After that, silence returned between the two of them, but neither minded it since they were busy. His Mandibuzz had temporarily lowered his defenses, allowing a psychic connection. Externally, each kept themself busy while a conversation was happening internally.

‘Allow me to be blunt. Can you tell me why the league has such an interest in my boy?’ The older man did not waste any time.

Mathew had been expecting this question to come up eventually, but not this soon. He didn’t expect it from the older gentlemen either. The surprise he felt resulted in him staying silent for a few seconds, which might as well have been an eternity mentally before he answered.

‘I’m sorry?’ He tried to keep his calm. He wasn’t worried that the Gardevoir would not probe deeper to reach his inner thoughts since it was not only illegal but also out of her reach thanks to Mandibuzz’s layered protection.

A chuckle reached his thoughts. ‘Please you might have been able to fool them but not us. We are familiar with how the league works. A Ranger traveling with them is already suspicious enough, but an Elite 4 member conveniently waiting for the Nexon after a gym badge sealed the deal.”

A page of the journal was flipped while silence was the only answer the older gentleman received. In the grand scheme of things, he was right. The cover story had been rafted hastily which left many holes in it, yet they had to ensure the safety as soon as possible. Rangers are typically in charge of the wildlife, not trainers. But since he already made contact with Nexon he had been chosen for it instead of having someone else make contact. After the silence stretched, he continued.

“Do not worry. I don’t intend to tell anything to him. As long as you give me an answer that is.’

This time, the ranger reacted faster. He had been racking his brain all the while to think about what to say. His assignment was an undercover one, but that didn’t mean there weren’t protocols for when he was exposed. The league was far too thorough for such an oversight.

His jolly persona was quickly replaced by a more serious demeanor. “You are correct. I am following him under the League’s orders. I cannot tell you more, but know that it is strictly for his safety.”

Silence passed after this answer. if the old man was surprised by the truth he didn’t show it. Yet his answer didn’t take long. ‘ Very well. I will not tell him since it is in his interest. But let me tell you that if the League intends on limiting him or forcing him to work as an affiliated psychic, we would simply tell him the truth.’

His tone was the same, yet the weight his words now carried had the assurance that the league would not be able to stop them from retrieving their child if they needed to. The eyes of the old man also peeked from over the journal, and the certitude contained in them was enough to test the nerves of even the experienced ranger.

This family is absolutely crazy, they are prepared to go against the League for that?

‘Don’t get me wrong, the boy is free to do what he wants. If he decides to work for the League, it is his path. But we would not sit idle if he was forced into the situation. going to another region is hardly a difficult matter.’ He clarified.

‘I can guarantee you that I am at least only here for protection against threats he cannot deal with. There are no talks of forcing him into any situation as far as I know. It was also guaranteed by Elite Caitlin from what was communicated to me.’ The ranger answered.

None of this was strictly confidential information. They already knew of the meeting with the Elite 4 member and from what he understood she took quite a link to him. At the same time he spoke, he let the Gardevoir sense the sincerity in his words.

‘I thank you for your honesty. Although you might want to consider coming clean to him sooner rather than later. At least if your orders allow you to.’ The tone softened and the conversation was back to casual.

‘I beg your pardon?’ This took him by surprise once more.

His assignment was an undercover one not only to neutralize hidden threats but also to avoid Nexon acting recklessly because of a safety net like young trainers are prone to do. If he knew that he had a protector, he might start to rely too much on him, which would not only impair his growth but also get him used to something that would not be permanent. It wasn’t like Mathew would follow him for the rest of his life. For all he knew his order might change tomorrow.

‘He will learn of it. That is not a possibility but a certainty. The boy is observant, and I guess that he didn’t realize it until now simply because he didn’t sit down to think carefully. The encounter with Caitlin would have been enough if not because he was preoccupied with his outbursts.’

‘I’m sorry but I don’t see how he will make the link.’ Mathew admitted.

‘Few people were aware of his Gift. And among these people, even fewer have the connection necessary to reach the league let alone an Elite 4. If it was someone from before he left, the league would have reached out sooner. Meaning that it was someone he met after and as far as I know the only ones who learned of it are you and the young Seraphina. Between the two of you…’

He didn’t need to finish. Between a new trainer and a ranger who suddenly started to follow them, it wasn’t hard to guess who would be more likely to have connections with the League. That could prove troublesome.

‘I…will have to talk to my superior about that.’ His shoulder slumped as he realized the number of holes that were left in their hurry.

I might need to call Master for his help on this one. I can only hope he will have the time for me.

The old man nodded. ‘ In the meantime, don’t worry too much. As long as nothing extreme happens he will not question it too much. Especially with the tournament occupying his mind.’

As soon as the old man was done Mathew was left speechless. That was the same thing as saying that a shift was oddly quiet.

That was definitely a flag, wasn’t it?!