Slumbering Weald unfolded before Elysia and Owen like an enchanted dreamscape. Thick clusters of ancient trees with twisted branches and moss-covered trunks cast long shadows over the forest floor. The air was thick with a gentle mist that seemed to carry whispers of legendary tales. The atmosphere held a mystical allure, as if the very essence of the place was steeped in the magic of untold stories.

The rustle of leaves and the occasional hoot of distant Noctowls added to the enchanting ambiance. Shimmering Butterfree fluttered around, their wings adorned with ethereal patterns that caught the dappled sunlight. The Weald seemed to be a haven for Grass and Fairy-type Pokemon, with Sprigatito and Swirlix playing in the sun-dappled clearings, casting gleaming sparks that added to the magical aura.

Musharna, the dream-eater Pokemon, floated gently through the air, leaving trails of sweet-scented dreams in its wake. The soft glow of Eldegoss seeds danced in the breeze, creating an otherworldly display.

Deeper within the forest, they could hear the distant cries of Phantump and Trevenant, Pokemon they recalled were said to be the spirits of the departed. Their calls echoed through the ancient trees, contributing to the mystique of the place. Occasionally, a Mismagius would flicker in and out of visibility, honoring its association with magical phenomena, its presence leaving an eerie but fascinating impression.

As Elysia and Owen ventured further, they felt a sense of reverence, as if the very fabric of time and space resonated with the legendary tales held within the Weald. The Pokemon they encountered seemed to carry the weight of ancient stories, making Slumbering Weald a living sanctuary of myths.

Owen's eyes widened with wonder as they delved deeper into. "This place is incredible! I can't believe there are Pokemon here from all over the regions," he exclaimed, taking in the diverse sights and sounds of the enchanted forest.

Elysia nodded, her eyes scanning the holographic map on her Rotom phone. "Yeah, it's like a gathering point for Pokemon from different places. Uncle Goh told me that after my dad and he visited this place to return some important relics, Pokémon not native to Galar started showing up here".

Owen's excitement only grew at the revelation. "I've read about Pokemon migrations, but this is on a whole different level. What kind of Pokemon are we likely to encounter here?"

Elysia scrolled through the map, pointing out specific areas. "Well, there are reports of strong Pokemon among this forest. Some of them might be too powerful, so not many trainers dare to come here. We need to be careful and choose our battles wisely."

As they continued their journey, Owen's gaze was drawn to the rustling leaves and mysterious shadows of the ancient trees. "I wonder if we'll come across any legendary Pokemon. Your dad and Goh met Zacian and Zamazenta here, right?"

Elysia contemplated the question for a brief time, trying to remember what her uncle Goh had told her before. "I’m not quite sure how the story goes, but it's said that this forest has a connection to those legendary Pokemon. It would be incredible to encounter them, but we should focus on the present challenges first."

As Elysia and Owen ventured deeper, they soon stumbled upon what seemed to be the remnants of an ancient altar. Elysia's eyes widened with recognition as she remembered the ruins her uncle Goh told her years ago—this was the very place where the Rusted Sword and the Rusted Shield, the sacred artifacts of Zacian and Zamazenta, rested.

Excitement flickered in Elysia's eyes as she thought it would be a rare chance to admire these legendary items up close. However, before she and Owen could approach the altar, Elysia caught sight of someone kneeling behind a bush. As she drew closer and noticed the unique and elegant appearance of her now reencountered friend, she realized it was Adrian.

About to greet him, Elysia paused as Adrian subtly gestured for her to stay quiet. His attention seemed focused on something beyond their sight, as if he was aware of their presence even without looking at them. The air hung heavy with an unspoken tension, and Elysia followed Adrian's lead, maintaining silence and watching to see what had caught his attention.

Both crouched low and got closer to Adrian’s hiding spot.

“Do you know this boy?” Owen asked as quietly as possible, but she only nodded in order to follow Adrian’s indications. She didn’t understand why he had adamantly told them to keep such discretion, but she was aware that Adrian wouldn’t order something that excessive without a good reason.

Suddenly, the voice of two men interrupted the mystic atmosphere, alerting the three kids as the men approached the same spot they were hiding. They crouched even lower, hiding behind the foliage, as the voices of the approaching men grew louder. Owen couldn't help but shoot Elysia a questioning look, silently asking if she recognized the men. Elysia responded with a negative gesture by turning his head away, signaling for him to remain discreet.

The misty atmosphere in the Slumbering Weald heightened the suspense, making it difficult for them to discern the men's intentions. Elysia was about to inquire about Adrian's knowledge of the situation when the two men finally came into view. They were middle-aged, carrying a heavy case, and accompanied by a formidable Golem.

Elysia strained to catch their conversation without revealing her presence. The men spoke in hushed tones, discussing matters that seemed beyond the scope of casual forest exploration. It became evident that something important was happening, and Elysia couldn't shake the feeling that Adrian might be connected to these mysterious proceedings.

“I cannot believe this place was completely unprotected. This may be the easiest heist in history!” exclaimed one of the men.

“Lucky us. They must’ve thought no one would be dumb enough to steal those old relics,” added the other man.

The dialogue confirmed the suspicions – the men were planning to steal the relics associated with Zacian and Zamacenta. Owen, always enthusiastic about documenting events, began reaching for his devices to capture the unfolding crime. However, before he could start recording, Adrian's piercing gaze halted him.

Adrian's purple eyes conveyed a stern warning, urging Owen to refrain from exposing their presence. It left Elysia puzzled, wondering why Adrian seemed to have knowledge of this dubious operation. The atmosphere in the forest grew more tense as the men continued discussing their plan, unaware of the silent witnesses hidden in the shadows.

The two men opened the case, revealing a pair of gauntlets that held a special device. Intriguing machinery adorned the gauntlets, and buttons on the console were pressed to activate the device. As it emitted faint noises, one of the men donned the gauntlets and started to work.

With the gauntlets and the strange device, the man approached the altar. He engaged the device, creating an energy bubble that enveloped the Rusted Sword and Rusted Shield. Adrian, hidden alongside Elysia and Owen, observed in disapproval as the crime unfolded before his eyes.

Once the relics were safely secured within the energy bubble and then placed back in the case, the men exchanged relieved glances. The successful theft seemed to have brought them a sense of satisfaction, unaware that their actions had not gone unnoticed by the trio hidden in the misty shadows.

Elysia's heart raced as the realization that a real crime was unfolding before her eyes sank in. The gravity of the situation struck her deeply, and she instinctively reached for her Poke Ball, ready to intervene and put a halt to the theft. However, Adrian, with a silent gesture, restrained her, urging caution.

As the men discussed their actions, Elysia couldn't help but tense up, ready to act at a moment's notice.

"This will solve our problems. For now," one of the men remarked.

"I hope your buyer is trusty. Otherwise, we will be in real trouble," added the other one.

"Worse than what they did to those guys at the mansion? I doubt so," the first man declared.

"Come on. You really believe that rumor?"

"It is more than a rumor. I heard it from a trusted source," the man assured. "The one in charge must be a complete psycho. Nothing good will come for us if we continue with that team."

The men's conversation unfolded like a cryptic puzzle before Elysia, Adrian and Owen, who remained concealed in their hiding spot.

"It's the end of an era," one of the men remarked, a tinge of nostalgia in his tone. "Not gonna lie. Despite essentially surviving for a decade, it is sad to see Team Rocket turning into… this sick mess."

The mention of Team Rocket sent shivers down Elysia and Adrian's spines. The tales passed down by their parents about the nefarious Team Rocket were numerous, especially those recounting the events leading to its ultimate defeat by Ash, Cynthia, and many renowned trainers. For Elysia, it was an event her parents preferred not to dwell on, but even at her young age she noticed that the aftermath left lingering scars, especially in her dad.

"Wait. Team Rocket? I thought your dad and many other trainers had finished with them years ago!" exclaimed Owen, and Elysia immediately covered his mouth.

"Did you hear that?" said one of the men, putting both of them on high alert. They swiftly closed the case and commanded Golem to be ready for battle.

Adrian sighed, realizing that Owen's lack of discretion had compromised their stealth. He braced himself, prepared to engage in battle and put a stop to the unfolding heist. The mystic atmosphere of Slumbering Weald now crackled with tension as the impending clash between the trainers and the would-be thieves loomed.

The atmosphere in Slumbering Weald became chaotic as one of the men ordered Golem to use rock blast, unleashing a barrage of rocks in every direction, disrupting the once-peaceful scene. The rocks crashed through the misty air, disturbing the tranquility of the forest. One particularly large one landed dangerously close to the spot where Adrian, Elysia, and Owen were concealed.

The impact created a loud noise, making it clear that they were no longer hidden. The thieves, now alerted to their presence, turned their attention toward the source of the disturbance. It was evident that the element of surprise had been lost, and a confrontation was imminent.

The tension in the air heightened as Adrian analyzed the situation. "It's just a matter of seconds before they discover us," he declared with a sense of urgency. Addressing Elysia, he continued, "Elysia, your Meowth is a Steel type. Despite you just catching it, it can give us some advantage over Golem." Elysia nodded, her mind racing to formulate a strategy.

Turning his attention to Owen, Adrian asked, "And you, do you have a Pokemon that can be useful in this situation?" Owen nodded in response, indicating that Sobble was his partner. Adrian repeated the gesture and instructed both trainers to leave cover and be ready for action.

Adrian swiftly summoned his Sigilyph. With a quick command, he directed Sigilyph to create a protective barrier using Reflect. The shimmering psychic screen offered a layer of defense as they revealed themselves to the thieves, laying the ground for the battle.

"Stop right there!" Adrian commanded with stoic resolve, leading the charge as he left their cover, with Elysia and Owen following up, Meowth and Sobble poised for battle.

"Yeah, leave the Rusted Sword and Shield right now!" exclaimed Elysia, her voice ringing with determination.

The thieves halted momentarily, seemingly trying to discern if the situation was genuine.

"Wait. It's only kids?" remarked one of them, erupting in laughter at the seeming absurdity. "For a moment, we thought it was something serious!"

Elysia, annoyed by the thieves' dismissive attitude, retorted, "Hey! That's rude!"

The thieves continued their laughter, making more mocking comments that fueled the frustration of Owen and Elysia. Adrian, on the other hand, maintained his calm demeanor.

"Listen, kids. Why don't you go and mind your own business?" said one of the men.

"Yeah. I saw a cute and fat Skwovet you could dress up as a doll, little girl," continued the other man, adding to his intentions to provoke Elysia's anger.

The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

"That's it! You wanted a battle? You got it! Meowth, use Metal Claw!" commanded Elysia.

"Sobble, support Meowth with Water Gun!" ordered Owen.

The Pokemon leaped into action, ready to battle, but the thieves seemed unfazed. One of them simply commanded Golem to intercept the attacks, doing so without too much difficulty, despite the moves being super effective.

Meowth and Sobble continued to bravely unleashed their moves, but it became increasingly evident that they were at a severe disadvantage. Golem, with its towering strength and higher experience, easily withstood their attacks, rendering the type advantage almost inconsequential, despite the valiant efforts of Elysia's Meowth and Owen's Sobble.

Fortunately, Sigilyph's Reflect provided a protective barrier that mitigated some of the damage from Golem's counterattacks. Otherwise, the resounding thuds of Golem's powerful assaults would have finished them early.

Elysia and Owen realized that they needed a more strategic approach. Meowth attempted to use Metal Claw again, aiming for Golem's rocky exterior, while Sobble unleashed Water Gun to create some distance. However, Golem's resilience seemed insurmountable.

Adrian, observing the situation, began formulating a plan. He recognized the need for a coordinated effort and decided to step in. Sigilyph, responding to Adrian's command, used Air Cutter to create a diversion, momentarily distracting Golem.

Elysia and Owen, seizing this opportunity, quickly strategized. Elysia commanded Meowth to use a combination of Metal Claw and Bite, targeting Golem's weak points. Owen, on the other hand, directed Sobble to employ Water Gun with increased precision, aiming for Golem's joints and exposed areas.

However, it became increasingly apparent that despite the coordinated strategy and force in numbers, Golem remained a formidable opponent, showing little sign of backing off. On the other hand, Sobble and Meowth, having exerted themselves, began to exhibit signs of exhaustion.

The thieves, realizing that their adversaries were relatively inexperienced trainers, couldn't help but feel a sense of superiority. One of them smugly remarked, "It's a shame we have to teach you kids a lesson about not messing around with someone older and stronger. Maybe after this, you'll learn to stay out of things that don't concern you."

Elysia's frustration and sense of helplessness became more evident. The weight of her father's tales, recounting countless victories against criminals who sought to harm innocent Pokémon and people, pressed upon her. Now facing a similar threat, she questioned whether she could measure up to her father's legendary exploits.

Adrian, noticing her struggle, spoke with his usual calm tone, breaking through her momentary doubt. "It's okay, Elysia. You're doing well. Just a bit more time," he reassured her. His steady confidence provided a much-needed anchor, reminding Elysia that the battle was not lost yet.

While comforted by Adrian's words, Elysia couldn't shake the uncertainty about his cryptic remark—what did he mean by "just a bit more time"?

The tension in the air thickened as Sigilyph's Reflect waned, leaving Elysia and Owen vulnerable to the impending attack. With a triumphant declaration, the thieves ordered Golem to unleash its Rock Blast, overwhelming Meowth, Sobble, and Sigilyph. The defeated Pokémon lay injured, prompting Elysia and Owen to rush to their side, desperate to provide comfort.

However, Golem's imposing presence blocked their path, its stony form serving as a barrier between the trainers and their fallen companions. The victorious thieves, now oozing arrogance, mocked the young trainers for their failed attempts at heroism.

“We were going to let you go without a problem, but you wanted to play the hero,” sneered one of the men. “Now we demand your Pokémon as your punishment!” The demand hung heavily in the air, leaving Elysia and Owen with a difficult predicament.

Adrian's calm demeanor persisted as he approached the scene, a stark contrast to the fear that gripped Elysia and Owen. With unwavering resolve, he addressed the thieves, proposing an alternative deal.

"I have another deal for you, gentlemen," Adrian stated, his tone unyielding. "Put the relics back on the altar and leave my friend alone, or face the retribution of those who reside in this forest."

The thieves exchanged incredulous glances, dismissing Adrian's words with laughter. Their arrogance remained unshaken as they declared they had had enough of the kid's audacity.

The thieves, undeterred by Adrian's warning, ordered Golem to unleash a rock blast with the intention of crushing him. However, just before the rocks reached their target, an unexpected turn of events occurred. A mysterious purple aura enveloped the projectiles, bringing them to an abrupt halt. The thieves' laughter faltered as if the entire forest had suddenly come alive, its mystic energy bearing down on the criminals.

The weight of the unseen force pressed heavily on the thieves' bodies, casting an eerie stillness over the scene. Even those without psychic abilities, unlike Adrian, could sense the palpable energy that now permeated the air. The atmosphere held an otherworldly tension, leaving the thieves momentarily frozen in both shock and uncertainty.

Adrian, maintaining his calm demeanor, signaled to Elysia and Owen that it was now safe to recover their Pokémon and the stolen relics. Confused and intrigued, Elysia questioned Adrian about his involvement in the sudden turn of events. He dismissed her suspicions with a shake of his head.

“I simply sent a call to those within the forest who strongly opposed trespassers,” he clarified.

As Elysia and Owen approached their fainted Pokémon, the thieves remained paralyzed, unable to utter a word.

Adrian stood at the forefront, his eyes glowing with an otherworldly psychic energy that radiated through the Slumbering Weald. Psychic Pokémon of various shapes and sizes, drawn by the resonance of this powerful force, began to converge. Espeon, the Sun Pokémon, appeared with its elegant grace, while a Medicham, assumed a focused stance beside it. The mystical presence of Gardevoir, Gallade, and even a shadowy Alakazam became apparent, their psychic energies intertwining in a spectral dance.

Elysia and Owen, standing back, were captivated by the ethereal display of power. It wasn't a hostile intent; rather, it felt like the forest itself was awakening to dispense its own form of justice. The collective psychic force, with Adrian as its beacon, worked more as an intimidation tactic than as a means to inflict harm.

The thieves, still paralyzed and now thoroughly petrified by the unfolding spectacle, were surrounded by the psychic Pokémon. A Reuniclus hovered overhead, its gelatinous body glowing with a mysterious aura. Gardevoir's empathic abilities seemed to delve into their thoughts, exposing the weight of their misdeeds. A peculiar Kirlia, wearing a collar with a purple stone, took center to the gathering of Psychic Pokémon, maintaining a vigilant stance and getting ready to act at Adrian's command.

Adrian, with a calm yet commanding voice, addressed the thieves. "Return what you took, and leave this place. The forest has judged you."

In unison, the psychic Pokémon exerted their power, creating a swirling vortex of energy that enveloped the thieves and their Golem. The display was awe-inspiring, a testament to the ancient forces that resided within the Slumbering Weald. The thieves were lifted off the ground and propelled outward at the outskirts of the forest, while the relics were taken out of the case the thieves carried and then landed at the altar with a gentle yet forceful descent.

Paralyzed but unharmed, the thieves lay on the forest's edge, still unable to move. The psychic energy dissipated, and the Pokémon dispersed, returning to the depths of the mystical woods. The thieves, now at the mercy of the consequences set forth by the very forest they dared to disturb, were left to contemplate the gravity of their actions.

Adrian, Owen, and Elysia found themselves gently lifted by the psychic energy, carried beyond the forest's edge until they stood alongside the still-paralyzed and terrified thieves. The once-confident criminals were now humbled, their bravado replaced by genuine fear.

As the thieves begged for mercy and promised never to steal again, Elysia couldn't resist a moment of taunting. With a smirk, she asked, "Where did all that confidence go? Planning on stealing relics from mystical forests isn't as easy as you thought, huh?"

The thieves, still paralyzed and unable to respond, could only cast fearful glances towards the trio.

Adrian, maintaining his calm demeanor, decided to press the paralyzed thieves for what had caught his interest. "You mentioned Team Rocket. Is that true? Are you associated with them?"

The thieves exchanged nervous glances, hesitating before one of them finally spoke, "Team Rocket is history. We're just independent opportunists trying to make a quick buck!"

Adrian, though dissatisfied with the lack of answers, nodded in agreement. The psychic Pokémon, having fulfilled their role, returned to the deep of the forest, with the exception of the Kirlia who had stood before the congregation of psychic types.

“Well done, Gawain. Take a well deserved rest”, Adrian said to Kirlia, who just as its stoic partner, bowed in gratitude and returned to its pokéball.

Suddenly, the sound of sirens and vehicles approaching the scene broke the silence at the outskirts of the forest. Officer Jenny and other officials, along with their Growlithes and Herdiers, rushed to arrest the thieves.

As the paralyzed thieves pleaded for mercy, a voice rang out from behind them. "You won't be needing mercy today," declared Officer Jenny, accompanied by the other agents who had swiftly responded to Adrian's call for assistance.

“Talking about perfect timing,” Owen expressed as the scene unfolded.

“I called the police when we began the fight. We just needed to gain more time until officials arrived,” Adrian confessed.

Elysia, Owen, and Adrian turned to meet the police force. Officer Jenny efficiently restrained the thieves with handcuffs, ensuring they wouldn't escape. Elysia couldn't help but smirk at the sudden turn of events, realizing that Adrian had been proactive in calling for law enforcement.

"Nice to see you're always a step ahead, Adrian," Elysia remarked, also impressed by the quick police response.

Adrian, maintaining his stoic expression, replied, "It's essential to handle situations promptly. Now, Officer Jenny, these individuals were attempting to steal the relics in the Slumbering Weald. They might have information or even be involved with Team Rocket."

Officer Jenny, while appreciative of Adrian's quick thinking, couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at the mention of such an assumption.

"Team Rocket, you say?" she remarked, her tone skeptical. "As far as official records go, Team Rocket was dismantled years ago. Are you suggesting they've resurfaced?"

Adrian maintained his calm demeanor. "I can't be certain, Officer Jenny, but these individuals hinted at being part of that organization. It might be worth looking into, considering that not many would confess still belonging to Team Rocket."

Officer Jenny nodded, acknowledging Adrian's concern. "We'll investigate the matter thoroughly. If there's any truth to their claims or if there's a new threat emerging, we'll get to the bottom of it. Thank you for your cooperation."

With the reassurance from Officer Jenny, the police officers continued their work, and the paralyzed thieves were led away for further questioning. Elysia, Owen, and Adrian were left to contemplate the unfolding events and the mysterious mention of Team Rocket in a supposedly post-Rocket era.

Then, and breaking the moment of contemplation, Elysia felt a slight pang of guilt for not having properly introduced her companions due to the chaotic events that transpired. She turned to Owen, gesturing toward Adrian.

"Adrian, this is Owen. He's a new friend I made recently when I traveled to Galar. Owen, meet Adrian, an old friend I hadn't seen in years."

Owen extended a hand, acknowledging Adrian, "Nice to meet you, Adrian. That was some impressive stuff back there."

Adrian, maintaining his composed demeanor, nodded in acknowledgment. "Likewise, Owen. We may be crossing paths more often, it seems."

“But seriously, Those were such awesome and scary psychic abilities you showed back there! I never met someone with your skills before,” Owen remarked with his usual excitement.

“Well. Adrian’s mothers are Caitlin and Sabrina, so it is not a surprise that…”

Owen's eyes widened with excitement as Elysia revealed Adrian's parentage.

"Wait, Caitlin and Sabrina? The psychic masters?" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm already erased the previous chaotic scenario. "Man, their autographs are like legendary artifacts, even more rare than those of the PokéBanter Crew! People have been hunting for those for years since Caitlin and Sabrina stopped giving them! I never thought I'd meet someone directly connected to them!"

Adrian nodded, acknowledging Owen's enthusiasm. "Yes, they are remarkable trainers, and their influence has shaped my approach to Pokemon training."

Elysia, observing Owen's reaction, chuckled. "Well, you're in for quite a journey, Owen. Psychic abilities aside, Adrian's got quite the lineage."

Owen couldn't hide his excitement and jealousy at the prospect of both of them having such legendary figures indirectly guiding their paths. Now with more confidence, he dared to ask the ultimate question.

“Since we are friends already, do you think it would be possible for you to help me get your mother’s autographs? You’d be my hero!”

“I’m sorry, but I refuse,” Adrian quickly declared with a cold tone that even Elysia found distant. “Unlike Elysia, I cannot consider you a ‘friend’ yet, Owen. We must first build a bridge of trust, and despite our effective teamwork back there, there is still a long way before we can share some camaraderie that eventually would develop into the type of friendship you are looking for. One where you can make such requests. I hope that you can understand.”

“H-Hey, Adrian. You didn’t need to be that cold. Owen only wanted to share his friendship,” Elysia said, trying to mend some of Adrian’s direct and dry declaration.

Owen's hopeful expression faltered a bit at Adrian's blunt response, but he quickly masked his disappointment with a smile. "Fair enough," he said, trying to maintain a positive tone. "Maybe down the road, after we've been through some adventures together, right?"

Adrian nodded, acknowledging Owen's words without committing to any promises and appreciating his understanding. Elysia, noticing the shift in atmosphere, decided to steer the conversation toward their next destination.

"Well, since we've had quite the day, why don't we take a break and plan our next move? We still have the Gym Challenge ahead, and I want to make sure we're ready."

Owen, eager to move forward, agreed, and suggested that the three of them should take a Corviknight Taxi and head towards the closest Pokemon center in order to rest after such an exhausting adventure. Adrian, always two steps ahead, declared that he had already made the call, and before Owen and Eelysia even had time to process that fact, the vehicle approached and landed on that spot, ready to take them to their destination.

“Do you think he even knows the exact day and time he will get married?” Owen asked Elysia, receiving the same puzzled and fun expression.

The Corviknight Taxi soared through the skies, carrying Elysia, Owen, and Adrian toward their destination. As the Slumbering Weald faded into the distance, a sense of contemplation filled the air.

Inside the taxi, Elysia couldn't help but reflect on the events that had unfolded in the Slumbering Weald. The encounter with thieves, the mystical intervention of psychic Pokemon, and Adrian's enigmatic abilities left a lasting impression. She stole a glance at Adrian, who sat with his usual calm demeanor, but there was a subtle furrow in his brow that hadn't been there before. Elysia sensed a concern lingering beneath the surface.

Owen, on the other hand, was bubbling with excitement. The prospect of embarking on a new adventure, the Gym Challenge ahead, and the chance to explore further, fueled his enthusiasm. He took out his Rotom phone, eager to document their journey with photos and notes.

The Corviknight Taxi descended gracefully, landing in front of a bustling Pokemon Center. The trio disembarked, and Adrian suggested they rest for the day, allowing their Pokemon to recover and planning their strategy for the upcoming challenges.

As they entered the Pokemon Center, the familiar sights and sounds of healing machines and cheerful Indeedee greeted them. They approached the counter, where a friendly Nurse Joy offered to take care of their Pokemon. While waiting, Elysia, Owen, and Adrian found a quiet corner where they could share a quick meal and discuss what had occupied his mind since their experience in the Slumbering Weald.

"I can't help but worry at the mention of Team Rocket back there," he said, his voice measured. "If they are truly making a return, it could complicate matters for everyone, especially for our parents."

Elysia's eyes widened at the mention of Team Rocket. Unlike Adrian, who seemed stoically disturbed, she did not have enough knowledge to measure the gravity of the situation, only the memory of the few abrupt occasions where her father avoided the topic or acted weird.

“You don’t know why, right, Elysia?” Adrian asked her, his tone more empathic.

Elysia shook her head. She knew it was related to her father’s past, but nothing else.

“Uh… about what?” Owen asked with genuine curiosity.

Adrian got up from his spot. “It is not my task, nor I have the right to tell you about it, Elysia,” Adrian declared before his final statement. “Your parents will tell you in due time, I hope, but for now let’s take a well deserved rest”.

Despite Elysia and Owen’s intentions to talk for a bit more, they also considered that their busy day had already taken a toll on their bodies, and decided to follow Adrian’s advice. As they retired to their rooms, ready to rest for the challenges ahead, Elysia couldn't shake the feeling that this journey was destined for more surprises and discoveries, but also a bit of disturbance at Adrian’s enigmatic words. Little did she know that the path they were treading would lead to more than the encounters such young adventurers expected, as well as the crossing with an awoken darkness.