HOME | DD

Description

Chapter 17: Team Rocket Blasts Off

The hallway’s arteries were clogged with terrified people running towards the exit. Not even the staff could elevate their concerns this time. Everything had gone amiss. Isabelle managed to escape from the crowd, and located the others nearby. As the halls emptied, she could hear her friends panting echo throughout the room.

“Is everyone alright?” Isabelle asked.

“Well, considering we’re not at the end of Cloud’s sword,” Luigi said, “I’d say we’re perfect.”

“What Pokémon was that?” Sora asked Oak.

“An Entei.” The professor couldn’t believe that name came out of his mouth. Seeing a Pokémon of such high caliber was uncommon. “A Legendary Pokémon.”

Luigi glared at the professor in surprise. “The same one that few can survive against?”

Oak nodded.

“Are those robots done with the ship yet!?” Luigi said, half annoyed, half panicked.

“Normally a legendary wouldn’t attack unless provoked,” Oak said. “But I did notice that helmet on its head. This is Team Rocket’s doing alright.”

“How do you know?” Sora asked.

“Our team discovered that the Rockets tampered with the test results. We even caught one trying to escape, and they confessed to the crime.”

He faced Luigi and Yoshi with a stern expression. Already they knew what he was going to say, and embraced their ears for the inevitable.

“And it seems your results were altered as well.”

“Me can explain!” Yoshi said. “Yoshi no criminal! Me too cute to go behind bars! Me pay my taxes!”

“Don’t worry,” Oak said with a calm tone in his voice. “I believe you. The three of you seem good natured.” He frowned. “But you still lied about your results.”

“You’re right,” Sora said; guilt was glued to his face. “It was wrong. Sorry. We should’ve been truthful. I was just so excited that I got lost in the moment.”

“But that doesn’t explain why they would alter your results,” Oak said.

Luigi thought over the professor’s words for a moment. Every encounter they experienced started to cultivate into a horrible realization. A huge lump of reluctance filled Luigi’s stomach; he hated to break the rules, but it was unfair to leave the professor in the dark.

“We may have an idea,” Luigi said.

“We do?” Sora asked in confusion.

“To make a long story short, we know this giant idiot with spikes on his back,” Luigi said in a slow, hesitant tone. “He may be in cahoots with this Team Rocket.”

“Giant spikes on his back?” Oak asked.

“Again, long story,” Luigi said.

Yoshi gasped. “Then maybe that why they enter us. So Team Rocket could beat us with Heartless.”

It all clicked in Sora’s mind, and guilt burst through his chest, soaking his entire body. He just wanted to have fun; to take his mind off things. Sora knew they were bending the rules, but he didn’t think there’d be consequence over harmless entertainment

The aching feeling in his body converged into his heart.

“It’s our fault then.” He closed his eyes. “Had we not entered, the Heartless wouldn’t have attacked, and maybe everything that happened could’ve been avoid.”

Oak assumed the Heartless were those creatures from earlier. He had many questions for Sora, but felt the heat from his sadness. It felt discourteous to pry open his head.

“Sora,” Yoshi said in a sympathetic tone.

The room felt silent. That was, until, Sora’s eyes opened with a flash of confidence.

“Then we’ve got to fix this mistake!” he said.

Sora hurried towards the arena.

“Wait!” Oak said. “You’re not seriously going back out there? It’s too dangerous!”

“Plus, we haven’t fully recovered from the last fight,” Luigi said.

Sora’s spirit was undeterred by their words. “I don’t care! I’m going! If this Legendary Pokémon is as strong as say it is, then Red is going to need help!”

He left for the arena. The Professor was stunned by Sora’s determination. Despite the odds, he was still willing to fight. It was inspiring. The only other person he knew who shared Sora’s fortitude was Red. Maybe that’s why he had gained respect for him in such a short period of time.

“What about you two?” Oak asked.

Luigi sighed and shook his head. “That kid has a knack for running into battles. And somehow, he always ends up dragging us along. C’mon, Yoshi. We’re still part of Team Gonzales the Second, after all. Can’t leave our teammate hanging!”

Once again bound together by their vow of ‘all for one,’ the trio returned to the arena. The professor had no cause for concern. Deep down he knew they would be triumphant; their teamwork was their greatest asset.

--

“Hang in there, Charizard!”

Red watched as his Pokémon exchanged blows with Entei, causing the arena to tremble in fear from their incredible power. However, while Charizard was formidable, he was slowly starting to show signs of fatigue. Entei was, too, but Charizard’s energy was depleting faster. Red didn’t want something horrible to happen to his most faithful Pokémon.

When he began his Pokémon journey, Red chose a small little lizard named Charmander. Something about their chemistry mixed into a perfect blend of companionship. They’ve faced the strongest Pokémon, always coming out victorious. Even when Charmander evolved into Charizard, their friendship never deteriorated; instead, it soared into sky, forming a kinship that would never fall from the heavens.

Red refused to let a part of his world crash and burn into the soil. Lying on the floor beside Charizard was Cloud. He was concerned with his safety, too. Charizard started to pant from the exertion; Red surmised that he’d have just enough strength to grab Cloud and fly straight into the building. All he needed was a distraction.

Red grabbed a Poké Ball from his pocket, preparing to summon another Pokémon. “Hang on, buddy! I’ll get you out of there!”

But Entei wouldn’t let Red’s plan come to fruition.

The Pokémon exhaled a fireball from its mouth, sending it straight towards the trainer. Charizard felt the world crawl to a halt; he was unable to do anything as the fireball grew closer, preparing to scorch off every hair. But a miracle tackled him to the ground, just avoiding the attack. Red looked up to see that Sora was his savior. A wind of relief brushed through the arena.

“Thanks, man,” Red said as he rose to his feet. “That was close.”

“Just returning the favor,” Sora said.

Entei prepared to attack again when one of Yoshi’s eggs hit it in the face.

“Now’s your chance!” Sora said.

Red nodded, commanded Charizard to grab Cloud, and the two made a run for the exit. After Entei shook off the yolk, it noticed Sora and his friends standing ready to fight (of course, Luigi was a nervous wreck again). The Pokémon seemed surprised that it was being challenged by these small strangers.

“Sorry,” Sora said. “There’s been a change in the roster. You’re fighting us now!”

The arena was calm as the two opposing forces stared into each other’s eyes. Sora wasn’t sure how they would fair against a legendary. But his resolve to fix a mistake was the strongest force in the arena. He wasn’t going to yield until peace was restored. The group was about to go on the attack when a voice interrupted them.

“Ooooh,” a male voice said. It sounded somewhat effeminate. “Then cremation will be easy once we’re done with you!”

Everyone looked around for the voice’s origin.

“Who there?” Yoshi asked.

“Well, lookie here,” a female voice said. “It seems we have some meddling twerps in our presence.”

“Then I suppose it’s time we make our grand entrance!” the man said.

A puff of smoke emerged from the bleachers, hissing at its opposition. Silhouettes of a man and woman appeared from within the smoke.

“Who are they?” Luigi asked.

As the smoke cleared, their identities were revealed. The two wore matching white jumpsuits, with a giant red “R” etched on their shirts, gray gloves and boots. Although the woman’s outfit differed, as her shirt was small, revealing her midriff, and she wore a skirt. Meanwhile, the man had a long-sleeved shirt and pants.

The man had long purple hair; and the woman’s long red hair curved around to her backside. Both had their backs to each other.

Then, the woman spoke: “Prepare for trouble.”

“Make it double,” the man said, holding a beautiful red rose in his hand.

The two took turns reciting each sentence of their motto.

“To protect the world from devastation. To unite all peoples within our nation. To denounce the evils of truth and love. To extend our reach to the starts above.”

“Jessie,” the woman said.

“James,” the man said.

“Team Rocket, blast off at the speed of light!”

“Surrender now, or prepare to fight!”

A cat Pokémon with a gold coin on his forehead leaped in front of them. “Meowth, that’s right!”

For a moment, the arena was sedated by an awkward silence. And soon regained feeling in the form of hysterical laughter from Sora and friends. Team Rocket glowered at them.

“Hey, what’s so funny!?” James asked.

Between breaths, Luigi said, “We’re supposed to be intimidated by you after such a silly entrance!?”

“Silly!?” Jessie asked, growing livider.

“Oh, no!” Yoshi said, feigning concern. “Please no harm us in the name of the moon! Yoshi’s heart can’t take it!”

Jessie growled. “Why you—I’ll have you know that our motto strikes fear in the hearts of men! It’s perfection!”

“I don’t know, Jesse,” James said in thought. “How are we protecting the world from devastation when we’re causing it?”

James squealed as she slapped him on the back of the head.

“And you’re not helping matters!” Jessie said.

Meowth rolled his eyes. How’d I end up as part of a comedy troupe, he asked himself.

Regaining his composure, Sora said, “Lemme guess: you three are the ones controlling this Entei?”

“Well, ain’t we got a genius in da stadium,” Meowth said in a Brooklyn accent. “Who better than to control one of da most powerful Pokemon in da world?”

“Anyone but you three,” Yoshi said.

“Smarmy little brat!” Jessie said, offended. “We’ll have you know that we’re more than qualified! We’re not only smart, but fabulous!”

James struck an elegant pose with his hands. “And stylish!”

“And have been breaking da fourth wall way longer than dat hyperactive pink pony!” Meowth said.

His statement was met with confusion from Sora and his friends.

“Anyway, we know all about you little world travelers,” James said. “Well, your journey is about to come to an end!”

Meowth narrowed his eyes at James. “Good one. Never saw dat cliché coming.”

“I thought it was good,” James said with a pathetic whimper.

“That’s enough out of you two!” Jessie said. “With Entei under our control, you’ll never stop us!”

Meowth pulled out a remote control. “As I long as I have dis baby right here!”

“Don’t show them the remote, you idiot!” Jessie said

James glared at Meowth with a disturbed expression. “Where did you pull that remote control out of?”

“This ain’t dat kind of fanfic,” Meowth said, addressing the fourth wall. “Da less said, da better.”

Jessie snatched the controller from the feline and commanded Entei to attack. A sudden bolt of electricity flashed in front of its face; it was startled, and took a step backwards. Pikachu leaped in front of the legendary beast. Inspired by Sora’s battle with Cloud, he wasn’t afraid to fight, despite being at a disadvantage. He wasn’t going to watch his new friends from the sidelines anymore. Resolve surged through the sparks emitted from his cheeks.

“Where did you come from!?” Sora asked in surprise.

Pikachu turned to Sora with a pleasant smile, saying, “Pikachu!”

“Isn’t that Pokémon we encountered earlier?” Yoshi asked. “What it doing here?”

James blinked in confusion. “A Pikachu? Why do I suddenly have this feeling of PTSD?”

“It doesn’t matter,” Jessie said. “That’s just one more pest that doesn’t know its place.”

“You should get out of here,” Sora said. “It’s dangerous!”

Pikachu’s pleasant expression hardened into a shell of determination, and he turned to face Team Rocket. The sparks hissed louder with each discharge.

“A-Are you here to help us?” Luigi asked.

Pikachu nodded. The group was amazed; a wild animal was willing to put his life on the line for them. Sora had a feeling that it would take no for an answer.

“Well, the more the merrier, right?” Sora asked.

“I don’t see why not,” Luigi said.

Everyone got into their battle positions. Sora felt stronger than ever; he was in the company of people who were always be his side. And he even sensed that feeling inside of Pikachu. The odds of winning were unfavorable.

For Entei.

“Attack!” Jessie shouted.

Entei slammed its feet into the floor, causing the arena to tremble in fury. Sharp rocks emerged from the ground like thorns. Everyone moved back to avoid them. Pikachu, with his incredible agility, ran through the onslaught of spikes, avoiding every one that tried to impale him. When Pikachu got close to Entei, he unleashed a Thunder attack.

To the Legendary, the attack felt like a slap on the wrist; it only caused minor, momentary pain. Entei rose its paw to pin Pikachu onto the ground. Sora threw his Keyblade, knocking its paw away, which gave Pikachu ample time to escape. Growing irritated, Entei unleashed another burst of fire.

Yoshi caught the entire attack in his mouth, although he had trouble sustaining it. The intense burning swirled around inside; tears of pain streamed out of his eyes. Soon, he spat it right back Entei, who dodge the attack with a graceful jump. From the air, it launched another fire attack; this time, straight for Luigi, who slid onto his back to avoid being consumed by its wrath.

Luigi tried attacking with his hammer, but the Legendary unleashed an ear shattering roar that rustled the calm air, and knocked Luigi into the others. Upon standing up, they regrouped to form a new plan. None of their attacks left an impact; to Entei, they were annoying fruit flies.

A bucket of inspiration soon doused an idea onto Sora’s head; out of the corner of his eye, he saw the Rockets in the bleachers. Destroying that remote control was integral to liberating Entei from its mental dungeon. Sora instructed Luigi and Yoshi to deal with them, while he and Pikachu distracted the Legendary.

With a foundation for their plan constructed, they split into their respective teams. Luigi got onto Yoshi’s back, and they headed for the bleachers.

Meowth noticed them. “Green folk at ten o’ clock!”

“I’ll stop ‘em!” James said as he held a Poké Ball. “Go, Victreebel!”

A plant Pokémon in the shape of a bell emerged; but, instead of attacking Luigi and Yoshi, Victreebel chomped down on James’ head, showing affection for its master. James struggled to escape; his effeminate screams were muffled within its loving maw.

Meowth rubbed his temples. “Boy, wayda come through for us, James. You’re my hero.”

“I told you to get that thing trained!” Jessie said. She pulled out a Poké Ball. “Go, Arbok!”

A purple cobra appeared in front her. She commanded it to use an attack called “Acid Spray.” Arbok launched a ball of purple and pink fluids. Yoshi came to a halt, letting the dangerous sludge hit the bleachers. Smoke emerged from the spot as it ate away at the them. The foul stench of acid numbed their noses.

Luigi looked up to see Arbok flying at him with its venomous jaws; it tackled him to the ground, but he caught the creature’s deadly maw with his hammer. He struggled to push the creature away from him. At moments, he had to lean his head to avoid the poisonous drivel that crept from its mouth. Yoshi tried to help, but was instructed by Luigi to deal with the Rockets. With a reluctant nod, the dinosaur continued the mission.

Sora avoided another one of Entei’s flames. When he tried to attack with the Keyblade, Entei deflected it with its tail. Pikachu charged his tail with electricity, and tried swinging it right in Entei’s face; the Legendary stepped back to dodge the attack. It then knocked the little mouse away with a giant claw.

Pikachu rolled over next to Sora, who kneeled over to see if his new friend was alright. With a nod, Pikachu rose to his feet, ignoring the cold hand of fatigue trying to push him back onto the ground. Nothing was going to stop the little mouse. Sheer willpower gnawed at that cold hand, keeping it at bay.

Sora eye’s lit up with an idea. “Hey, use your lightning attack on my Keyblade! It might give me some more power!”

Pikachu nodded, knowing he could trust his judgement. Sora threw the Keyblade into the air, and Pikachu zapped the blade with his Thunder attack. The blade was covered in a bright yellow blanket of energy. Upon catching the hilt, Sora pointed it straight at Entei.

“Okay, round two!” Sora said.

Sora ran straight for Entei, conjuring his other two spells into the Keyblade, which turned it into a brilliant flash of multiple colors. Sensing the danger, Entei unleashed more spikes from within the earth. Sora dodged and leaped his way through the ground’s relentless assault. Finally, Sora slammed his Keyblade into the floor, unleashing a giant stream of energy. Entei felt the full force pierce through its once proud fur. Its roars of pain echoed into the sky, shattering the sound barrier into meek pieces of frightened glass.

Meanwhile, James managed to free himself from the slimy, hot cave of Victreebel’s mouth. After shaking the salvia out of his hair, he saw Yoshi heading straight for them.

“Now what kind of Pokémon is that?” James said. He pulled out another Poké Ball, grinning with glee. “Don’t care. It’d make a great gift for the boss.”

“James, wait!” Meowth said in a panic.

James threw the ball straight into Yoshi’s nose, forcing him to lift his head upward. For a moment, the dinosaur remained frozen in his place, which left the three Rockets unnerved. When he lowered his head, they were greeted to the primal fury of an angry dinosaur; he snorted furious, sweltering air at them.

“Um, maybe I should’ve weakened you first,” James said with a timid tone in his voice.

Yoshi ate Victreebel in one gulp, and after some minor struggling, released it as an egg. Team Rocket felt a concoction of disbelief and disgust spill into their beaker of trepidation.

“Are you sure this isn’t THAT kind of fanfic!?” Jessie asked.

Meowth gulped. “I don’t know anymore, Jess.”

Yoshi rammed his head into the egg, which crashed into the Rockets, and sent them tumbling down the bleachers into a wall. The remote control was released from their grasp, landing right nearby Luigi; he was still locked in battle with Arbok. The plumber used his fire uppercut to knock the Pokémon straight into the sky.

The Rockets groaned as they sat up, and shook away the disoriented feeling spinning around their heads like an annoying bird.

Meowth looked disappointed. “I can’t believe dis! Our first mission and we botched it! I was so looking forward to becoming da bosses top cat! Dat Persian would’ve wished he’d never been a Meowth to begin with.”

“Cheer up, buddy,” James said with a reassuring smile. “Least we have our health.”

And those words, along with Team Rocket, were soon crushed beneath a giant snake that fell from the sky.

Jessie grunted. “Yes, after paying off our medical expenses.”

Luigi took his hammer and smashed the remote control into pieces. In the same vein, Sora destroyed the helmet on Entei’s head. The Pokémon broke the shackles off its imprisoned mind, but was confused, and agitated, by its new surroundings.

Sora sensed its fear. He could identify with the poor creature; those were the same overwhelming feelings he experienced upon arriving in Traverse Town. Upon making the Keyblade vanish, he approached the Pokémon with slow, gentle steps.

“Hey, it’s okay,” Sora said with a soft tone in his voice, which calmed the Pokémon down; it glanced into his eyes. They were tranquil like the movement of grass in the wind. “You’re free from their control.”

Sora directed Entei’s attention towards the Rockets. Painful memories of being held hostage by them seared through its fur; and those flames cultivated into a massive burst of anger. Entei leaped onto the bleachers, spun around, and pointed its sharp eyes right at them like an arrow. Any moment it would be unleashed. The Rockets huddled against the wall.

“H-Hey, about that whole mind control thing,” James said. “It wasn’t our idea. We just went along with it. It hurt us just as much as it hurt yo—”

Furious smoke exhumed from its mouth.

“Yeah, it’s not buying it, sweetheart,” Jessie said.

“Oh, poopy,” James said.

Entei fired an attack that send the Rockets flying into the sky.

“Sixteen years! Sixteen years we’ve waited for our big comeback, and we still lost!” Jessie said.

“And now I’ll never be top cat!”

“And I want my mommy!” James said, crying.

“Looks like Team Rocket’s blasting off again!” they clamored as they faded into the distance. A lone sparkle emerged from where they vanished.

Sora pumped his fist into the sky. “Yeah! Take that Team Rocket.”

“Hope we never see them again,” Yoshi said, letting his shoulders relax. “They start getting on Yoshi’s nerves.”

Luigi raised an eyebrow. “Starting?”

Sora noticed Entei staring at the spot where Team Rocket vanished. It was relieved to be free. To enjoy the sights and sounds of nature again. Entei felt the wind rustle through its fur.

“Entei,” Sora said. “Are you okay?”

The Pokémon looked down at Sora and Pikachu, its saviors. It felt an incredible elation upon starting into their eyes. Without them, it may never had been able to experience the joys of life again. Entire responded with a soft growl, lowering its head. Pkachu even confirmed its response with a nod.

Sora grinned. “Guess that means yes. You should leave. After all you’ve been through, you deserve to go home.”

Wordless, Entei leaped over the stadium, and returned to the safe confinement of the forest, where it would nestle in its soft arms. Sora was happy for it, but a sliver of envy peeled through his satisfaction. He was nowhere close to finding his own home. It was frustrating. But he had to stay positive. Somewhere, beyond the stars, home always awaits your return. It’s a part of our lives, and we can never be separated from it.

Putting on a big smile, he removed those jealous feelings from his conscience.

He looked down at Pikachu. “And thanks for helping us! Couldn’t have done it without ya!”

Luigi and Yoshi arrived to see Sora petting Pikachu’s back. The mouse rubbed its bright red cheeks against Sora’s fingers. That feeling of bliss returned to him, and he never wanted to lose it again. No one like Sora made him feel this much jubilation.

“Man, you really are friendly, aren’t ya?” Sora said.

Yoshi crossed his arms in envy. “Me friendlier.”

“I think someone is getting jealous again,” Luigi said with a playful grin.

Yoshi blushed. “No!”

“I’ve known you since you hatched,” Luigi said. “Those puffed cheeks aren’t filled with acorns.”

“They from that bee Pokémon we fought earlier,” Yoshi said in a defiant tone. “They stung Yoshi’s cheeks.”

“Sure thing, buddy,” Luigi said with a roll of his eyes. “Sure thing.”

---

Sora and his friends were honored for the selfless act of heroism. Their ears were greeted by the pleasant sounds of applause. A female police officer presented them with medals. Even if they were disqualified from the tournament, the feeling of saving lives was the greatest reward to keep perched on your shoulders.

Once the ceremony ended, the crowd grew smaller until Sora, his friends, Red, Charizard, and the Professor were left to talk amongst themselves.

“Very impressive work, boys,” Oak said. “Thanks to you, the Coliseum and its patrons are safe

Red glanced at the professor in surprise. “Just impressive? That was awesome! You guys got mad skills.”

“Thanks!” Sora said, rubbing his head in modesty. “But you and your Pokémon came through for us in clinch!”

Red patted Charizard on the chest. “Well, that’s what years of hard work and determination will bring you. Professor, how are these guys not fit for the tournament? They’d be perfect! I want to take them on!”

“Hm, I don’t know, Red,” Oak said with a skeptical rub of his chin. “Technically they weren’t supposed to take part in the first place.”

Sora and his friends looked at each other with dejected expressions. They were disappointed about being unable to compete. But it was understandable: consequences were a part of making mistakes; and, unfortunately, even if someone tried rectifying them, the residuals of one’s actions would leave a permanent mark.

But a bell of hope rang when Red said, “Loosen up, professor. Things might’ve been a lost worse if not for them. They clearly got what it takes!”

“Please!” Sora said, clasping his hands together.

For a moment, the good professor’s dubious expression didn’t change. But upon replaying every battle the group faced in his head, his entire demeanor relaxed, and he formed a smile.

“Oh, alright. I’ll let you enter!”

Sora and Yoshi leaped into the air in excitement. Their dreams still had a chance of morphing out of its transparent visage into reality. Luigi gulped, knowing that the competition would become fiercer. Still, he kept those thoughts of winning clutched to his chest.

“Thanks, professor!” Red said, slapping him on the back.

Oak winced. “My back, Red!”

“Oops, sorry.”

“Say, Red,” Sora said, “will you be there, too?”

Red grinned. “Yep. Many world renown trainers are coming to compete. You better train your butts off, ‘cause if we end up facing each other, I’m not holding back!”

“You’re on!”

Sora’s competitive nature resurfaced from the debris of disappointment. Something about Red reminded him of himself. That optimistic attitude, his enjoyment of healthy competition – he couldn’t wait to face Red in the ring. Those feelings reminded him of his constant spars with Riku. Those were cherished memories that he never wanted to lose. It kept him happy.

“Now, hold up, boys,” Oak said. “The next tournament will have to be postponed. We need to clean up the mess from today’s fiasco.”

“But how we know when tournament being held?” Yoshi asked.

Luigi pulled out his 3DS; one of its various functions was to receive emails. With an exchange of information, the group would keep their eyes glued for the announcement of the next round.

“Before we go, there’s one last thing we need to take care of.” Luigi faced Pikachu.

“Pi?” Pikachu asked, feeling uneasy by the plumber’s expression.

“What do we do about him?” Luigi asked.

“Easy,” Sora said. “He can come with us.”

“He’s still a wild animal,” Luigi said. “He wouldn’t be able to comprehend the things we’ll see out there. His home is here.”

Pikachu lowered his ears by this news. Those feelings of joy started to be swept away by a hurricane of sorrow. Which also engulfed Sora’s mood in the process.

“Man, that’s not fair.” Sora kneeled to the mouse. “Sorry, Pikachu. Wish you could come, but Luigi is right.” He found an idea glistening within the storm. “Wait a minute! Can Pikachu be on our team for the tournament? You said up to four people can enter.”

“Well, this Pikachu isn’t trained,” Oak said. “But, strangely, he works well with you in battle. Perhaps we can make an exception!”

Upon hearing the news, Pikachu’s ears flew upward, and he did a backflip, overjoyed to be apart of the team. After celebrating with Sora and Yoshi, he saw Luigi walk over to him. He stared emotionless at the plumber.

“Well, guess you’re a part of the team,” Luigi said. “Welcome aboard.”

Pikachu crossed his arms and turned away from him. A deformed grudge festered within his stomach.

“Oh, don’t be like that!” Luigi said, annoyed. “What I said is true. And you know it. Doesn’t matter now. We’re all part of a team.” He stuck out his hand. “So let’s be pals.”

Pikachu grabbed his hand, and released a fierce shock that zapped Luigi’s entire body, lighting him up like a Christmas tree.

Once Luigi recovered from Pikachu’s ‘friendly gesture,’ he glowered at the mouse. “Oh, you’re going to pay for that one!”

Yoshi restrained Luigi before he could brandish his hammer. Pikachu responded to Luigi’s angry cries by sticking out his tongue. Sora almost wanted to hide under a chair; this was so embarrassing. This bolded well for their future endeavors.

“Seems you have a lot of work to do in the teamwork department,” Oak said.

“Don’t remind me,” Sora said.

After extinguishing the heated uproar, everyone said their good-byes. Professor Oak promised to keep Pikachu safe within the coliseum’s walls. With the day ending, Sora and his friends departed for their temporary home: the Labo Ship – to unwind, and reflect upon the highs and lows today had brought them.

When the doors closed, Red said, “Quite interesting fellas, huh, professor?”

“I’m still amazed that they were able to hold their own against Entei,” Oak said.

Red leaned into his ear. “Between us, Charizard already weakened it by the time they jumped in.”

“Understood,” Oak said with a chuckle. “My lips are sealed.”

---

Jessie, James, and Meowth sat in silence in the waiting area right outside of Giovanni’s office. The only noise uttered was a fan swirling overhead. Their first mission was a disaster. They were already dreading the inevitable meeting with their boss. Jessie squeezed her hands together to loosen the tension in her shoulders. Out of the corner of her, she saw James bobbing back and forth in his chair.

“James, are you—”

“All my life I’ve known how to be bad,” James said with a sullen tone in his voices. “Crimes and gangs: it’s how I got through life. But something so wrong has always felt right to me. It’s what I love. Does it make me crazy? Sure, but I don’t care. Being a part of Team Rocket has always been my dream. I wanted to do wrong on a global scale. I finally got that chance. And then I squandered it.”

“Don’t beat yourself up too hard,” Jessie said. “We’re just as guilty of messing up.”

James turned to his companion; his emotions grew stronger. “You don’t understand! I’m scared about the future! I abandoned everything just to come here. The boss is going to fire me, and then I’ll have nothing left.”

“I’ll be alone,” he whispered into the dimly lit room.

Everything he worked for collapsed right in front of him. What was he going to do? Maybe the only option he had was to vanish into obscurity. It made him crawl under a bridge of depression; the darkness was his only comfort. At least, until he felt a strong grip on his arm.

“That’s not true,” Jessie said. “We have each other. Regardless of what happens, we’ll end up doing wrong together. You can’t have James without Jessie.”

James looked into her blue eyes. There was a reassurance that pulled him out from underneath the bridge. It reminded him that there was someone he cherished. No matter how far he fell, Jessie and Meowth would be waiting to catch him at the bottom.

“Do you mean it?” James asked.

“You’re the only person I trust here,” Jessie said with a smile. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

His feeling of pessimism evaporated into a warm smile. “Thanks, Jess.”

“What about Meowth!?” the cat interjected. “You need someone adorable in the group! I ain’t going back to a life as an alley cat.”

“Of course,” Jessie said. “But don’t think for a second I’m changing your litterbox. That’s James’ job.”

James chuckled. “Hold on a sec. Why do I get stuck doing—”

Their playful banter was interrupted by the muffled yells of Giovanni. Everything once again plunged into a terrified silence.

But Jessie remained firm in her disposition. “He’s experienced failure, too. He has to have some sympathy for us. I just know it.”

--

Giovanni slammed his fist onto the desk. His Persian, who had been sleeping, awoke from the abrupt noise, and leaned back in fear of his master’s unrestrained anger.

“That Red drives me to the peak of insanity! No matter what I do, he always finds a way to ruin my plans! I’m sick of him, his disgustingly upbeat attitude, and his Charizard!”

Memories of his previous encounters with Red splashed through Giovanni’s mind like an enraged current. He worked so hard to sweep up the pieces of his fallen empire, and reform it into a beautifully cut emerald. Now, the ghosts of his past emerged from the earth, trying to smash that emerald into dust.

He sat back in his chair, took a few deep breaths, and sipped some wine.

“No. I should not let one child break me. Compose yourself.” He tapped his fingers against the arm rest, in deep thought. “I have plenty of resources at my disposal. Why should I worry? I’ll wait for the right moment to take both Red and that key wielding brat down.”

A chill disrupted his thoughts. Turning to his right, he was greeted by none other than Bowser. The Koopa King’s teeth widened, as if to mock him for his failures.

Giovanni’s hands gripped the arm rest, trying to restrain his anger. “Can’t you show the slightest consideration and use a door?”

“And miss your little hissy fit?” Bowser laughed. “No way.”

“Leave my establishment right now,” Giovanni said, turning away from that repugnant smile. “I don’t need your help. Everything is under control.”

Bowser shrugged. “Whatever. Do as you want. Fight to your heart’s content.”

Unable to bear that scathing voice anymore, he spun around, saying, “Don’t patronize me you—”

Gone. As if he never even existed in the first place. A figment people would’ve mistaken as his inner critic. Sighing, he sat back in his chair, collecting his thoughts. The TV monitors hummed throughout his office. Persian had already fallen back asleep, uninterested in the conversation. Disbanding Team Rocket in the first place was a mistake. Something in the world didn’t feel right without them.

He wanted to revive them – make their presence stronger than ever. Giovanni wanted to finally extinguish the flames of his failures.

A voice spoke up on the intercom. “Sir, Rockets 1997 and 1998 are here.”

“Send them in,” Giovanni said. “They could still be useful.”

He looked at one of the Television monitors. Every negative emotion Giovani felt was drained when he saw the instrument of his success. A sinister smirked appeared on his face. What he wielded now was a power that even made him shiver in terror. In a glass tube was a humanoid Pokémon with white skin. It donned a robot suit, which were connected by red wires.

The creature thrashed throughout its prison in a vain hope of escape. Its tail thumped furiously against the glass.

Soon, the wonderful world of Pokémon would be eclipsed by Team Rocket’s wrath.

---

Nightfall was approaching. The air was cooler. After the fiasco with Team Rocket, the crowd had dispersed, although curiosity kept a few people around like flies to a light. The sun started its descent over the horizon, preparing to rest its head from the long, taxing day. Likewise, Sora and his friends were preparing to do the same.

During their stroll, they encountered more Pikmin, and gave them to Lakitu for safe keeping.

Upon approaching the exit, Sora and his friends were reminded of a loose end that lingered, making their day feel incomplete. And he was sitting on a bench. It was none other than Cloud. The mysterious warrior glanced at the ground, reflecting on everything that transpired. Regret sat next to him, whispering harsh words in his ear.

Cloud was rushed to the hospital after the whole ordeal with Entei, and recovered within a matter of hours. Sora was surprised; Cloud appeared as if nothing ever happened to him. No burn marks, no nothing.

“I completely forgot about Cloud!” Sora started to approach him.

“Careful,” Luigi said.

But Sora didn’t heed his advice. He knew Cloud had no intention of hurting anyone. After all, he was willing to spare them before their match started. Sure, it was difficult to read Cloud’s expressions, but Sora heard concern rifled between his words.

“You okay?” Sora asked.

Cloud glanced up at Sora. Although his expression remained unchanged, deep down, he was surprised Sora was talking to him. Cloud assumed that he and his friends would’ve avoided him after trying to kill them. Somehow this made a feeling of guilt sprout in his chest like an unnecessary weed.

“Yeah,” Cloud said. “Sorry about earlier.”

Sora smiled in response, as if the whole ordeal was like a harmless accident. “No problem. You don’t seem like the kind of person to go along with a group of bad guys. Why did you?”

“I’m looking for someone. Giovanni promised to help. I tried to exploit the power of darkness, but it backfired.” Cloud stood up, and stared at the stars starting to form in the sky. “I fell into the darkness, and I couldn’t find the light.”

Sora felt the heat of Cloud’s dilemma brush over him within the cool breeze. It was a feeling he could identify all too well.

“You’ll find it,” Sora said. “I’m searching, too.”

“For your light?”

Sora nodded.

Cloud couldn’t help but chuckle. Something about Sora’s encouraging words gave him hope for the future. Despite them going at each other’s throats earlier, Sora showed empathy for Cloud’s plight. Forgiveness is something some people must earn, but Sora was a rare breed; he didn’t let the past hinder his view of a person. No one was ever one note. Everyone had a reason for something.

Cloud stood up, walked over to Sora, and pat him on the shoulder. “Then don’t lose sight of it.”

The group watched him walk away towards the exit.

“Hey, that was a fun fight,” Sora said. “Y’know, despite trying to kill us and everything. How about a rematch sometime? Fair and square, no dark powers involved.”

Cloud looked over his shoulder and ran his fingers through his blonde hair. “I think I’ll pass.”

The tension between the groups subsided. They knew Cloud wasn’t a bad person. Just misguided; desperate to find someone. Everyone else shared those feelings.

Sora just hoped he was wrong about declining a rematch. Like Riku, he saw Cloud as a rival – someone who tested the limits of his strength. And he wanted another chance to fight him; this time, to win. While not sure if a rematch would come to fruition, Sora would train during his journey. There were bound to be others out there like Cloud; he wanted to be ready for them.

Yoshi walked next to Sora, showing concern. “Think he going to be okay?”

“I think that – just like our journey – if he doesn’t give up, he’ll be just fine,” Sora said, placing an arm around the dinosaur.

Those were words Sora and his friends would never relinquish; not until they could see their loved one’s smiles again.

Description

Chapter 17: Team Rocket Blasts Off

The hallway’s arteries were clogged with terrified people running towards the exit. Not even the staff could elevate their concerns this time. Everything had gone amiss. Isabelle managed to escape from the crowd, and located the others nearby. As the halls emptied, she could hear her friends panting echo throughout the room.

“Is everyone alright?” Isabelle asked.

“Well, considering we’re not at the end of Cloud’s sword,” Luigi said, “I’d say we’re perfect.”

“What Pokémon was that?” Sora asked Oak.

“An Entei.” The professor couldn’t believe that name came out of his mouth. Seeing a Pokémon of such high caliber was uncommon. “A Legendary Pokémon.”

Luigi glared at the professor in surprise. “The same one that few can survive against?”

Oak nodded.

“Are those robots done with the ship yet!?” Luigi said, half annoyed, half panicked.

“Normally a legendary wouldn’t attack unless provoked,” Oak said. “But I did notice that helmet on its head. This is Team Rocket’s doing alright.”

“How do you know?” Sora asked.

“Our team discovered that the Rockets tampered with the test results. We even caught one trying to escape, and they confessed to the crime.”

He faced Luigi and Yoshi with a stern expression. Already they knew what he was going to say, and embraced their ears for the inevitable.

“And it seems your results were altered as well.”

“Me can explain!” Yoshi said. “Yoshi no criminal! Me too cute to go behind bars! Me pay my taxes!”

“Don’t worry,” Oak said with a calm tone in his voice. “I believe you. The three of you seem good natured.” He frowned. “But you still lied about your results.”

“You’re right,” Sora said; guilt was glued to his face. “It was wrong. Sorry. We should’ve been truthful. I was just so excited that I got lost in the moment.”

“But that doesn’t explain why they would alter your results,” Oak said.

Luigi thought over the professor’s words for a moment. Every encounter they experienced started to cultivate into a horrible realization. A huge lump of reluctance filled Luigi’s stomach; he hated to break the rules, but it was unfair to leave the professor in the dark.

“We may have an idea,” Luigi said.

“We do?” Sora asked in confusion.

“To make a long story short, we know this giant idiot with spikes on his back,” Luigi said in a slow, hesitant tone. “He may be in cahoots with this Team Rocket.”

“Giant spikes on his back?” Oak asked.

“Again, long story,” Luigi said.

Yoshi gasped. “Then maybe that why they enter us. So Team Rocket could beat us with Heartless.”

It all clicked in Sora’s mind, and guilt burst through his chest, soaking his entire body. He just wanted to have fun; to take his mind off things. Sora knew they were bending the rules, but he didn’t think there’d be consequence over harmless entertainment

The aching feeling in his body converged into his heart.

“It’s our fault then.” He closed his eyes. “Had we not entered, the Heartless wouldn’t have attacked, and maybe everything that happened could’ve been avoid.”

Oak assumed the Heartless were those creatures from earlier. He had many questions for Sora, but felt the heat from his sadness. It felt discourteous to pry open his head.

“Sora,” Yoshi said in a sympathetic tone.

The room felt silent. That was, until, Sora’s eyes opened with a flash of confidence.

“Then we’ve got to fix this mistake!” he said.

Sora hurried towards the arena.

“Wait!” Oak said. “You’re not seriously going back out there? It’s too dangerous!”

“Plus, we haven’t fully recovered from the last fight,” Luigi said.

Sora’s spirit was undeterred by their words. “I don’t care! I’m going! If this Legendary Pokémon is as strong as say it is, then Red is going to need help!”

He left for the arena. The Professor was stunned by Sora’s determination. Despite the odds, he was still willing to fight. It was inspiring. The only other person he knew who shared Sora’s fortitude was Red. Maybe that’s why he had gained respect for him in such a short period of time.

“What about you two?” Oak asked.

Luigi sighed and shook his head. “That kid has a knack for running into battles. And somehow, he always ends up dragging us along. C’mon, Yoshi. We’re still part of Team Gonzales the Second, after all. Can’t leave our teammate hanging!”

Once again bound together by their vow of ‘all for one,’ the trio returned to the arena. The professor had no cause for concern. Deep down he knew they would be triumphant; their teamwork was their greatest asset.

--

“Hang in there, Charizard!”

Red watched as his Pokémon exchanged blows with Entei, causing the arena to tremble in fear from their incredible power. However, while Charizard was formidable, he was slowly starting to show signs of fatigue. Entei was, too, but Charizard’s energy was depleting faster. Red didn’t want something horrible to happen to his most faithful Pokémon.

When he began his Pokémon journey, Red chose a small little lizard named Charmander. Something about their chemistry mixed into a perfect blend of companionship. They’ve faced the strongest Pokémon, always coming out victorious. Even when Charmander evolved into Charizard, their friendship never deteriorated; instead, it soared into sky, forming a kinship that would never fall from the heavens.

Red refused to let a part of his world crash and burn into the soil. Lying on the floor beside Charizard was Cloud. He was concerned with his safety, too. Charizard started to pant from the exertion; Red surmised that he’d have just enough strength to grab Cloud and fly straight into the building. All he needed was a distraction.

Red grabbed a Poké Ball from his pocket, preparing to summon another Pokémon. “Hang on, buddy! I’ll get you out of there!”

But Entei wouldn’t let Red’s plan come to fruition.

The Pokémon exhaled a fireball from its mouth, sending it straight towards the trainer. Charizard felt the world crawl to a halt; he was unable to do anything as the fireball grew closer, preparing to scorch off every hair. But a miracle tackled him to the ground, just avoiding the attack. Red looked up to see that Sora was his savior. A wind of relief brushed through the arena.

“Thanks, man,” Red said as he rose to his feet. “That was close.”

“Just returning the favor,” Sora said.

Entei prepared to attack again when one of Yoshi’s eggs hit it in the face.

“Now’s your chance!” Sora said.

Red nodded, commanded Charizard to grab Cloud, and the two made a run for the exit. After Entei shook off the yolk, it noticed Sora and his friends standing ready to fight (of course, Luigi was a nervous wreck again). The Pokémon seemed surprised that it was being challenged by these small strangers.

“Sorry,” Sora said. “There’s been a change in the roster. You’re fighting us now!”

The arena was calm as the two opposing forces stared into each other’s eyes. Sora wasn’t sure how they would fair against a legendary. But his resolve to fix a mistake was the strongest force in the arena. He wasn’t going to yield until peace was restored. The group was about to go on the attack when a voice interrupted them.

“Ooooh,” a male voice said. It sounded somewhat effeminate. “Then cremation will be easy once we’re done with you!”

Everyone looked around for the voice’s origin.

“Who there?” Yoshi asked.

“Well, lookie here,” a female voice said. “It seems we have some meddling twerps in our presence.”

“Then I suppose it’s time we make our grand entrance!” the man said.

A puff of smoke emerged from the bleachers, hissing at its opposition. Silhouettes of a man and woman appeared from within the smoke.

“Who are they?” Luigi asked.

As the smoke cleared, their identities were revealed. The two wore matching white jumpsuits, with a giant red “R” etched on their shirts, gray gloves and boots. Although the woman’s outfit differed, as her shirt was small, revealing her midriff, and she wore a skirt. Meanwhile, the man had a long-sleeved shirt and pants.

The man had long purple hair; and the woman’s long red hair curved around to her backside. Both had their backs to each other.

Then, the woman spoke: “Prepare for trouble.”

“Make it double,” the man said, holding a beautiful red rose in his hand.

The two took turns reciting each sentence of their motto.

“To protect the world from devastation. To unite all peoples within our nation. To denounce the evils of truth and love. To extend our reach to the starts above.”

“Jessie,” the woman said.

“James,” the man said.

“Team Rocket, blast off at the speed of light!”

“Surrender now, or prepare to fight!”

A cat Pokémon with a gold coin on his forehead leaped in front of them. “Meowth, that’s right!”

For a moment, the arena was sedated by an awkward silence. And soon regained feeling in the form of hysterical laughter from Sora and friends. Team Rocket glowered at them.

“Hey, what’s so funny!?” James asked.

Between breaths, Luigi said, “We’re supposed to be intimidated by you after such a silly entrance!?”

“Silly!?” Jessie asked, growing livider.

“Oh, no!” Yoshi said, feigning concern. “Please no harm us in the name of the moon! Yoshi’s heart can’t take it!”

Jessie growled. “Why you—I’ll have you know that our motto strikes fear in the hearts of men! It’s perfection!”

“I don’t know, Jesse,” James said in thought. “How are we protecting the world from devastation when we’re causing it?”

James squealed as she slapped him on the back of the head.

“And you’re not helping matters!” Jessie said.

Meowth rolled his eyes. How’d I end up as part of a comedy troupe, he asked himself.

Regaining his composure, Sora said, “Lemme guess: you three are the ones controlling this Entei?”

“Well, ain’t we got a genius in da stadium,” Meowth said in a Brooklyn accent. “Who better than to control one of da most powerful Pokemon in da world?”

“Anyone but you three,” Yoshi said.

“Smarmy little brat!” Jessie said, offended. “We’ll have you know that we’re more than qualified! We’re not only smart, but fabulous!”

James struck an elegant pose with his hands. “And stylish!”

“And have been breaking da fourth wall way longer than dat hyperactive pink pony!” Meowth said.

His statement was met with confusion from Sora and his friends.

“Anyway, we know all about you little world travelers,” James said. “Well, your journey is about to come to an end!”

Meowth narrowed his eyes at James. “Good one. Never saw dat cliché coming.”

“I thought it was good,” James said with a pathetic whimper.

“That’s enough out of you two!” Jessie said. “With Entei under our control, you’ll never stop us!”

Meowth pulled out a remote control. “As I long as I have dis baby right here!”

“Don’t show them the remote, you idiot!” Jessie said

James glared at Meowth with a disturbed expression. “Where did you pull that remote control out of?”

“This ain’t dat kind of fanfic,” Meowth said, addressing the fourth wall. “Da less said, da better.”

Jessie snatched the controller from the feline and commanded Entei to attack. A sudden bolt of electricity flashed in front of its face; it was startled, and took a step backwards. Pikachu leaped in front of the legendary beast. Inspired by Sora’s battle with Cloud, he wasn’t afraid to fight, despite being at a disadvantage. He wasn’t going to watch his new friends from the sidelines anymore. Resolve surged through the sparks emitted from his cheeks.

“Where did you come from!?” Sora asked in surprise.

Pikachu turned to Sora with a pleasant smile, saying, “Pikachu!”

“Isn’t that Pokémon we encountered earlier?” Yoshi asked. “What it doing here?”

James blinked in confusion. “A Pikachu? Why do I suddenly have this feeling of PTSD?”

“It doesn’t matter,” Jessie said. “That’s just one more pest that doesn’t know its place.”

“You should get out of here,” Sora said. “It’s dangerous!”

Pikachu’s pleasant expression hardened into a shell of determination, and he turned to face Team Rocket. The sparks hissed louder with each discharge.

“A-Are you here to help us?” Luigi asked.

Pikachu nodded. The group was amazed; a wild animal was willing to put his life on the line for them. Sora had a feeling that it would take no for an answer.

“Well, the more the merrier, right?” Sora asked.

“I don’t see why not,” Luigi said.

Everyone got into their battle positions. Sora felt stronger than ever; he was in the company of people who were always be his side. And he even sensed that feeling inside of Pikachu. The odds of winning were unfavorable.

For Entei.

“Attack!” Jessie shouted.

Entei slammed its feet into the floor, causing the arena to tremble in fury. Sharp rocks emerged from the ground like thorns. Everyone moved back to avoid them. Pikachu, with his incredible agility, ran through the onslaught of spikes, avoiding every one that tried to impale him. When Pikachu got close to Entei, he unleashed a Thunder attack.

To the Legendary, the attack felt like a slap on the wrist; it only caused minor, momentary pain. Entei rose its paw to pin Pikachu onto the ground. Sora threw his Keyblade, knocking its paw away, which gave Pikachu ample time to escape. Growing irritated, Entei unleashed another burst of fire.

Yoshi caught the entire attack in his mouth, although he had trouble sustaining it. The intense burning swirled around inside; tears of pain streamed out of his eyes. Soon, he spat it right back Entei, who dodge the attack with a graceful jump. From the air, it launched another fire attack; this time, straight for Luigi, who slid onto his back to avoid being consumed by its wrath.

Luigi tried attacking with his hammer, but the Legendary unleashed an ear shattering roar that rustled the calm air, and knocked Luigi into the others. Upon standing up, they regrouped to form a new plan. None of their attacks left an impact; to Entei, they were annoying fruit flies.

A bucket of inspiration soon doused an idea onto Sora’s head; out of the corner of his eye, he saw the Rockets in the bleachers. Destroying that remote control was integral to liberating Entei from its mental dungeon. Sora instructed Luigi and Yoshi to deal with them, while he and Pikachu distracted the Legendary.

With a foundation for their plan constructed, they split into their respective teams. Luigi got onto Yoshi’s back, and they headed for the bleachers.

Meowth noticed them. “Green folk at ten o’ clock!”

“I’ll stop ‘em!” James said as he held a Poké Ball. “Go, Victreebel!”

A plant Pokémon in the shape of a bell emerged; but, instead of attacking Luigi and Yoshi, Victreebel chomped down on James’ head, showing affection for its master. James struggled to escape; his effeminate screams were muffled within its loving maw.

Meowth rubbed his temples. “Boy, wayda come through for us, James. You’re my hero.”

“I told you to get that thing trained!” Jessie said. She pulled out a Poké Ball. “Go, Arbok!”

A purple cobra appeared in front her. She commanded it to use an attack called “Acid Spray.” Arbok launched a ball of purple and pink fluids. Yoshi came to a halt, letting the dangerous sludge hit the bleachers. Smoke emerged from the spot as it ate away at the them. The foul stench of acid numbed their noses.

Luigi looked up to see Arbok flying at him with its venomous jaws; it tackled him to the ground, but he caught the creature’s deadly maw with his hammer. He struggled to push the creature away from him. At moments, he had to lean his head to avoid the poisonous drivel that crept from its mouth. Yoshi tried to help, but was instructed by Luigi to deal with the Rockets. With a reluctant nod, the dinosaur continued the mission.

Sora avoided another one of Entei’s flames. When he tried to attack with the Keyblade, Entei deflected it with its tail. Pikachu charged his tail with electricity, and tried swinging it right in Entei’s face; the Legendary stepped back to dodge the attack. It then knocked the little mouse away with a giant claw.

Pikachu rolled over next to Sora, who kneeled over to see if his new friend was alright. With a nod, Pikachu rose to his feet, ignoring the cold hand of fatigue trying to push him back onto the ground. Nothing was going to stop the little mouse. Sheer willpower gnawed at that cold hand, keeping it at bay.

Sora eye’s lit up with an idea. “Hey, use your lightning attack on my Keyblade! It might give me some more power!”

Pikachu nodded, knowing he could trust his judgement. Sora threw the Keyblade into the air, and Pikachu zapped the blade with his Thunder attack. The blade was covered in a bright yellow blanket of energy. Upon catching the hilt, Sora pointed it straight at Entei.

“Okay, round two!” Sora said.

Sora ran straight for Entei, conjuring his other two spells into the Keyblade, which turned it into a brilliant flash of multiple colors. Sensing the danger, Entei unleashed more spikes from within the earth. Sora dodged and leaped his way through the ground’s relentless assault. Finally, Sora slammed his Keyblade into the floor, unleashing a giant stream of energy. Entei felt the full force pierce through its once proud fur. Its roars of pain echoed into the sky, shattering the sound barrier into meek pieces of frightened glass.

Meanwhile, James managed to free himself from the slimy, hot cave of Victreebel’s mouth. After shaking the salvia out of his hair, he saw Yoshi heading straight for them.

“Now what kind of Pokémon is that?” James said. He pulled out another Poké Ball, grinning with glee. “Don’t care. It’d make a great gift for the boss.”

“James, wait!” Meowth said in a panic.

James threw the ball straight into Yoshi’s nose, forcing him to lift his head upward. For a moment, the dinosaur remained frozen in his place, which left the three Rockets unnerved. When he lowered his head, they were greeted to the primal fury of an angry dinosaur; he snorted furious, sweltering air at them.

“Um, maybe I should’ve weakened you first,” James said with a timid tone in his voice.

Yoshi ate Victreebel in one gulp, and after some minor struggling, released it as an egg. Team Rocket felt a concoction of disbelief and disgust spill into their beaker of trepidation.

“Are you sure this isn’t THAT kind of fanfic!?” Jessie asked.

Meowth gulped. “I don’t know anymore, Jess.”

Yoshi rammed his head into the egg, which crashed into the Rockets, and sent them tumbling down the bleachers into a wall. The remote control was released from their grasp, landing right nearby Luigi; he was still locked in battle with Arbok. The plumber used his fire uppercut to knock the Pokémon straight into the sky.

The Rockets groaned as they sat up, and shook away the disoriented feeling spinning around their heads like an annoying bird.

Meowth looked disappointed. “I can’t believe dis! Our first mission and we botched it! I was so looking forward to becoming da bosses top cat! Dat Persian would’ve wished he’d never been a Meowth to begin with.”

“Cheer up, buddy,” James said with a reassuring smile. “Least we have our health.”

And those words, along with Team Rocket, were soon crushed beneath a giant snake that fell from the sky.

Jessie grunted. “Yes, after paying off our medical expenses.”

Luigi took his hammer and smashed the remote control into pieces. In the same vein, Sora destroyed the helmet on Entei’s head. The Pokémon broke the shackles off its imprisoned mind, but was confused, and agitated, by its new surroundings.

Sora sensed its fear. He could identify with the poor creature; those were the same overwhelming feelings he experienced upon arriving in Traverse Town. Upon making the Keyblade vanish, he approached the Pokémon with slow, gentle steps.

“Hey, it’s okay,” Sora said with a soft tone in his voice, which calmed the Pokémon down; it glanced into his eyes. They were tranquil like the movement of grass in the wind. “You’re free from their control.”

Sora directed Entei’s attention towards the Rockets. Painful memories of being held hostage by them seared through its fur; and those flames cultivated into a massive burst of anger. Entei leaped onto the bleachers, spun around, and pointed its sharp eyes right at them like an arrow. Any moment it would be unleashed. The Rockets huddled against the wall.

“H-Hey, about that whole mind control thing,” James said. “It wasn’t our idea. We just went along with it. It hurt us just as much as it hurt yo—”

Furious smoke exhumed from its mouth.

“Yeah, it’s not buying it, sweetheart,” Jessie said.

“Oh, poopy,” James said.

Entei fired an attack that send the Rockets flying into the sky.

“Sixteen years! Sixteen years we’ve waited for our big comeback, and we still lost!” Jessie said.

“And now I’ll never be top cat!”

“And I want my mommy!” James said, crying.

“Looks like Team Rocket’s blasting off again!” they clamored as they faded into the distance. A lone sparkle emerged from where they vanished.

Sora pumped his fist into the sky. “Yeah! Take that Team Rocket.”

“Hope we never see them again,” Yoshi said, letting his shoulders relax. “They start getting on Yoshi’s nerves.”

Luigi raised an eyebrow. “Starting?”

Sora noticed Entei staring at the spot where Team Rocket vanished. It was relieved to be free. To enjoy the sights and sounds of nature again. Entei felt the wind rustle through its fur.

“Entei,” Sora said. “Are you okay?”

The Pokémon looked down at Sora and Pikachu, its saviors. It felt an incredible elation upon starting into their eyes. Without them, it may never had been able to experience the joys of life again. Entire responded with a soft growl, lowering its head. Pkachu even confirmed its response with a nod.

Sora grinned. “Guess that means yes. You should leave. After all you’ve been through, you deserve to go home.”

Wordless, Entei leaped over the stadium, and returned to the safe confinement of the forest, where it would nestle in its soft arms. Sora was happy for it, but a sliver of envy peeled through his satisfaction. He was nowhere close to finding his own home. It was frustrating. But he had to stay positive. Somewhere, beyond the stars, home always awaits your return. It’s a part of our lives, and we can never be separated from it.

Putting on a big smile, he removed those jealous feelings from his conscience.

He looked down at Pikachu. “And thanks for helping us! Couldn’t have done it without ya!”

Luigi and Yoshi arrived to see Sora petting Pikachu’s back. The mouse rubbed its bright red cheeks against Sora’s fingers. That feeling of bliss returned to him, and he never wanted to lose it again. No one like Sora made him feel this much jubilation.

“Man, you really are friendly, aren’t ya?” Sora said.

Yoshi crossed his arms in envy. “Me friendlier.”

“I think someone is getting jealous again,” Luigi said with a playful grin.

Yoshi blushed. “No!”

“I’ve known you since you hatched,” Luigi said. “Those puffed cheeks aren’t filled with acorns.”

“They from that bee Pokémon we fought earlier,” Yoshi said in a defiant tone. “They stung Yoshi’s cheeks.”

“Sure thing, buddy,” Luigi said with a roll of his eyes. “Sure thing.”

---

Sora and his friends were honored for the selfless act of heroism. Their ears were greeted by the pleasant sounds of applause. A female police officer presented them with medals. Even if they were disqualified from the tournament, the feeling of saving lives was the greatest reward to keep perched on your shoulders.

Once the ceremony ended, the crowd grew smaller until Sora, his friends, Red, Charizard, and the Professor were left to talk amongst themselves.

“Very impressive work, boys,” Oak said. “Thanks to you, the Coliseum and its patrons are safe

Red glanced at the professor in surprise. “Just impressive? That was awesome! You guys got mad skills.”

“Thanks!” Sora said, rubbing his head in modesty. “But you and your Pokémon came through for us in clinch!”

Red patted Charizard on the chest. “Well, that’s what years of hard work and determination will bring you. Professor, how are these guys not fit for the tournament? They’d be perfect! I want to take them on!”

“Hm, I don’t know, Red,” Oak said with a skeptical rub of his chin. “Technically they weren’t supposed to take part in the first place.”

Sora and his friends looked at each other with dejected expressions. They were disappointed about being unable to compete. But it was understandable: consequences were a part of making mistakes; and, unfortunately, even if someone tried rectifying them, the residuals of one’s actions would leave a permanent mark.

But a bell of hope rang when Red said, “Loosen up, professor. Things might’ve been a lost worse if not for them. They clearly got what it takes!”

“Please!” Sora said, clasping his hands together.

For a moment, the good professor’s dubious expression didn’t change. But upon replaying every battle the group faced in his head, his entire demeanor relaxed, and he formed a smile.

“Oh, alright. I’ll let you enter!”

Sora and Yoshi leaped into the air in excitement. Their dreams still had a chance of morphing out of its transparent visage into reality. Luigi gulped, knowing that the competition would become fiercer. Still, he kept those thoughts of winning clutched to his chest.

“Thanks, professor!” Red said, slapping him on the back.

Oak winced. “My back, Red!”

“Oops, sorry.”

“Say, Red,” Sora said, “will you be there, too?”

Red grinned. “Yep. Many world renown trainers are coming to compete. You better train your butts off, ‘cause if we end up facing each other, I’m not holding back!”

“You’re on!”

Sora’s competitive nature resurfaced from the debris of disappointment. Something about Red reminded him of himself. That optimistic attitude, his enjoyment of healthy competition – he couldn’t wait to face Red in the ring. Those feelings reminded him of his constant spars with Riku. Those were cherished memories that he never wanted to lose. It kept him happy.

“Now, hold up, boys,” Oak said. “The next tournament will have to be postponed. We need to clean up the mess from today’s fiasco.”

“But how we know when tournament being held?” Yoshi asked.

Luigi pulled out his 3DS; one of its various functions was to receive emails. With an exchange of information, the group would keep their eyes glued for the announcement of the next round.

“Before we go, there’s one last thing we need to take care of.” Luigi faced Pikachu.

“Pi?” Pikachu asked, feeling uneasy by the plumber’s expression.

“What do we do about him?” Luigi asked.

“Easy,” Sora said. “He can come with us.”

“He’s still a wild animal,” Luigi said. “He wouldn’t be able to comprehend the things we’ll see out there. His home is here.”

Pikachu lowered his ears by this news. Those feelings of joy started to be swept away by a hurricane of sorrow. Which also engulfed Sora’s mood in the process.

“Man, that’s not fair.” Sora kneeled to the mouse. “Sorry, Pikachu. Wish you could come, but Luigi is right.” He found an idea glistening within the storm. “Wait a minute! Can Pikachu be on our team for the tournament? You said up to four people can enter.”

“Well, this Pikachu isn’t trained,” Oak said. “But, strangely, he works well with you in battle. Perhaps we can make an exception!”

Upon hearing the news, Pikachu’s ears flew upward, and he did a backflip, overjoyed to be apart of the team. After celebrating with Sora and Yoshi, he saw Luigi walk over to him. He stared emotionless at the plumber.

“Well, guess you’re a part of the team,” Luigi said. “Welcome aboard.”

Pikachu crossed his arms and turned away from him. A deformed grudge festered within his stomach.

“Oh, don’t be like that!” Luigi said, annoyed. “What I said is true. And you know it. Doesn’t matter now. We’re all part of a team.” He stuck out his hand. “So let’s be pals.”

Pikachu grabbed his hand, and released a fierce shock that zapped Luigi’s entire body, lighting him up like a Christmas tree.

Once Luigi recovered from Pikachu’s ‘friendly gesture,’ he glowered at the mouse. “Oh, you’re going to pay for that one!”

Yoshi restrained Luigi before he could brandish his hammer. Pikachu responded to Luigi’s angry cries by sticking out his tongue. Sora almost wanted to hide under a chair; this was so embarrassing. This bolded well for their future endeavors.

“Seems you have a lot of work to do in the teamwork department,” Oak said.

“Don’t remind me,” Sora said.

After extinguishing the heated uproar, everyone said their good-byes. Professor Oak promised to keep Pikachu safe within the coliseum’s walls. With the day ending, Sora and his friends departed for their temporary home: the Labo Ship – to unwind, and reflect upon the highs and lows today had brought them.

When the doors closed, Red said, “Quite interesting fellas, huh, professor?”

“I’m still amazed that they were able to hold their own against Entei,” Oak said.

Red leaned into his ear. “Between us, Charizard already weakened it by the time they jumped in.”

“Understood,” Oak said with a chuckle. “My lips are sealed.”

---

Jessie, James, and Meowth sat in silence in the waiting area right outside of Giovanni’s office. The only noise uttered was a fan swirling overhead. Their first mission was a disaster. They were already dreading the inevitable meeting with their boss. Jessie squeezed her hands together to loosen the tension in her shoulders. Out of the corner of her, she saw James bobbing back and forth in his chair.

“James, are you—”

“All my life I’ve known how to be bad,” James said with a sullen tone in his voices. “Crimes and gangs: it’s how I got through life. But something so wrong has always felt right to me. It’s what I love. Does it make me crazy? Sure, but I don’t care. Being a part of Team Rocket has always been my dream. I wanted to do wrong on a global scale. I finally got that chance. And then I squandered it.”

“Don’t beat yourself up too hard,” Jessie said. “We’re just as guilty of messing up.”

James turned to his companion; his emotions grew stronger. “You don’t understand! I’m scared about the future! I abandoned everything just to come here. The boss is going to fire me, and then I’ll have nothing left.”

“I’ll be alone,” he whispered into the dimly lit room.

Everything he worked for collapsed right in front of him. What was he going to do? Maybe the only option he had was to vanish into obscurity. It made him crawl under a bridge of depression; the darkness was his only comfort. At least, until he felt a strong grip on his arm.

“That’s not true,” Jessie said. “We have each other. Regardless of what happens, we’ll end up doing wrong together. You can’t have James without Jessie.”

James looked into her blue eyes. There was a reassurance that pulled him out from underneath the bridge. It reminded him that there was someone he cherished. No matter how far he fell, Jessie and Meowth would be waiting to catch him at the bottom.

“Do you mean it?” James asked.

“You’re the only person I trust here,” Jessie said with a smile. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

His feeling of pessimism evaporated into a warm smile. “Thanks, Jess.”

“What about Meowth!?” the cat interjected. “You need someone adorable in the group! I ain’t going back to a life as an alley cat.”

“Of course,” Jessie said. “But don’t think for a second I’m changing your litterbox. That’s James’ job.”

James chuckled. “Hold on a sec. Why do I get stuck doing—”

Their playful banter was interrupted by the muffled yells of Giovanni. Everything once again plunged into a terrified silence.

But Jessie remained firm in her disposition. “He’s experienced failure, too. He has to have some sympathy for us. I just know it.”

--

Giovanni slammed his fist onto the desk. His Persian, who had been sleeping, awoke from the abrupt noise, and leaned back in fear of his master’s unrestrained anger.

“That Red drives me to the peak of insanity! No matter what I do, he always finds a way to ruin my plans! I’m sick of him, his disgustingly upbeat attitude, and his Charizard!”

Memories of his previous encounters with Red splashed through Giovanni’s mind like an enraged current. He worked so hard to sweep up the pieces of his fallen empire, and reform it into a beautifully cut emerald. Now, the ghosts of his past emerged from the earth, trying to smash that emerald into dust.

He sat back in his chair, took a few deep breaths, and sipped some wine.

“No. I should not let one child break me. Compose yourself.” He tapped his fingers against the arm rest, in deep thought. “I have plenty of resources at my disposal. Why should I worry? I’ll wait for the right moment to take both Red and that key wielding brat down.”

A chill disrupted his thoughts. Turning to his right, he was greeted by none other than Bowser. The Koopa King’s teeth widened, as if to mock him for his failures.

Giovanni’s hands gripped the arm rest, trying to restrain his anger. “Can’t you show the slightest consideration and use a door?”

“And miss your little hissy fit?” Bowser laughed. “No way.”

“Leave my establishment right now,” Giovanni said, turning away from that repugnant smile. “I don’t need your help. Everything is under control.”

Bowser shrugged. “Whatever. Do as you want. Fight to your heart’s content.”

Unable to bear that scathing voice anymore, he spun around, saying, “Don’t patronize me you—”

Gone. As if he never even existed in the first place. A figment people would’ve mistaken as his inner critic. Sighing, he sat back in his chair, collecting his thoughts. The TV monitors hummed throughout his office. Persian had already fallen back asleep, uninterested in the conversation. Disbanding Team Rocket in the first place was a mistake. Something in the world didn’t feel right without them.

He wanted to revive them – make their presence stronger than ever. Giovanni wanted to finally extinguish the flames of his failures.

A voice spoke up on the intercom. “Sir, Rockets 1997 and 1998 are here.”

“Send them in,” Giovanni said. “They could still be useful.”

He looked at one of the Television monitors. Every negative emotion Giovani felt was drained when he saw the instrument of his success. A sinister smirked appeared on his face. What he wielded now was a power that even made him shiver in terror. In a glass tube was a humanoid Pokémon with white skin. It donned a robot suit, which were connected by red wires.

The creature thrashed throughout its prison in a vain hope of escape. Its tail thumped furiously against the glass.

Soon, the wonderful world of Pokémon would be eclipsed by Team Rocket’s wrath.

---

Nightfall was approaching. The air was cooler. After the fiasco with Team Rocket, the crowd had dispersed, although curiosity kept a few people around like flies to a light. The sun started its descent over the horizon, preparing to rest its head from the long, taxing day. Likewise, Sora and his friends were preparing to do the same.

During their stroll, they encountered more Pikmin, and gave them to Lakitu for safe keeping.

Upon approaching the exit, Sora and his friends were reminded of a loose end that lingered, making their day feel incomplete. And he was sitting on a bench. It was none other than Cloud. The mysterious warrior glanced at the ground, reflecting on everything that transpired. Regret sat next to him, whispering harsh words in his ear.

Cloud was rushed to the hospital after the whole ordeal with Entei, and recovered within a matter of hours. Sora was surprised; Cloud appeared as if nothing ever happened to him. No burn marks, no nothing.

“I completely forgot about Cloud!” Sora started to approach him.

“Careful,” Luigi said.

But Sora didn’t heed his advice. He knew Cloud had no intention of hurting anyone. After all, he was willing to spare them before their match started. Sure, it was difficult to read Cloud’s expressions, but Sora heard concern rifled between his words.

“You okay?” Sora asked.

Cloud glanced up at Sora. Although his expression remained unchanged, deep down, he was surprised Sora was talking to him. Cloud assumed that he and his friends would’ve avoided him after trying to kill them. Somehow this made a feeling of guilt sprout in his chest like an unnecessary weed.

“Yeah,” Cloud said. “Sorry about earlier.”

Sora smiled in response, as if the whole ordeal was like a harmless accident. “No problem. You don’t seem like the kind of person to go along with a group of bad guys. Why did you?”

“I’m looking for someone. Giovanni promised to help. I tried to exploit the power of darkness, but it backfired.” Cloud stood up, and stared at the stars starting to form in the sky. “I fell into the darkness, and I couldn’t find the light.”

Sora felt the heat of Cloud’s dilemma brush over him within the cool breeze. It was a feeling he could identify all too well.

“You’ll find it,” Sora said. “I’m searching, too.”

“For your light?”

Sora nodded.

Cloud couldn’t help but chuckle. Something about Sora’s encouraging words gave him hope for the future. Despite them going at each other’s throats earlier, Sora showed empathy for Cloud’s plight. Forgiveness is something some people must earn, but Sora was a rare breed; he didn’t let the past hinder his view of a person. No one was ever one note. Everyone had a reason for something.

Cloud stood up, walked over to Sora, and pat him on the shoulder. “Then don’t lose sight of it.”

The group watched him walk away towards the exit.

“Hey, that was a fun fight,” Sora said. “Y’know, despite trying to kill us and everything. How about a rematch sometime? Fair and square, no dark powers involved.”

Cloud looked over his shoulder and ran his fingers through his blonde hair. “I think I’ll pass.”

The tension between the groups subsided. They knew Cloud wasn’t a bad person. Just misguided; desperate to find someone. Everyone else shared those feelings.

Sora just hoped he was wrong about declining a rematch. Like Riku, he saw Cloud as a rival – someone who tested the limits of his strength. And he wanted another chance to fight him; this time, to win. While not sure if a rematch would come to fruition, Sora would train during his journey. There were bound to be others out there like Cloud; he wanted to be ready for them.

Yoshi walked next to Sora, showing concern. “Think he going to be okay?”

“I think that – just like our journey – if he doesn’t give up, he’ll be just fine,” Sora said, placing an arm around the dinosaur.

Those were words Sora and his friends would never relinquish; not until they could see their loved one’s smiles again.