Pokemon Dark Tidings.

Goldenrod, Johto, a few days after the Cherrygrove tournament.

Ezra descended from the sky on his Pidgeot, the wind rustling his hair as the sprawling metropolis of Goldenrod City spread out below. Unlike the quaint charm of Cherrygrove, Goldenrod was a bustling urban center, the largest city in Johto, known for its towering skyscrapers, sprawling avenues, and throngs of people moving with purpose through the busy streets.

It was civilization, and he already felt more at home just from seeing the city in front of him. Roughing it out in the wild really wasn't his favorite thing. Give him a nice hotel anytime.

In the distance as he began to land, he could spot the towering Goldenrod Radio Tower, knowing one day they'd be broadcasting his victories, his success, for all to see. He couldn't wait! He didn't want to just be somebody, he wanted to shake things up.

To begin with, making a gym with more than one specialty was going to be different, he didn't intend to leave it at just that. He wanted to make everyone both fear and desire battling his gym.

With Steven Stone onboard, although the whole thing still needed to go through the lawyers - financial independence was already sorted, now all that was left was to collect more Ghost and Dark Pokemon, and train them up to the proper quality, before taking the League by storm.

Pidgeot touched down gracefully in a small park near the edge of the commercial district, and Ezra took a moment to smooth out his clothes, ruffled from the flight. He patted Pidgeot's neck appreciatively, then returned the bird to its Pokeball with a quiet "Good job." The full extent of his communication with this Pokemon at this point.

He'd need to find a proper Dark Pokemon to fly with eventually, but he'd keep his promise either way to Pidgeot, he had no reason not to really. Pidgeot had been the MVP so far, getting him to everything he needed without him having to spend months walking like a plebeian.

He'd come to this city mainly for two things. And Goldenrod was famous for many more - the Game Corner, the Magnet Train, the Radio Tower, and of course, the sprawling Goldenrod Department Store - which was one of his two targets today. Ezra had done his research - this was the best place in Johto to stock up on TMs, and he intended to load up on the best ones he could find. He had money to burn, and no reason to wait.

He'd read some stories where people refused to use the 'cheat' of buying techniques, and he absolutely refused to be that stupid.

Could a Pokemon possibly create a more powerful technique if they did it on their own from the beginning? Perhaps. Even likely.

But that was ignoring the fact of how much training and finessing one could do with a Pokemon while not wasting time on that technique.

If he was to teach Rider Fire Blast. And it took him a few weeks to learn from scratch, even at an optimistic outlook - that would be a few weeks he'd only be focusing on that - for a possible percent or two of higher performance.

Or… He could learn the technique immediately, spend a few weeks perfecting it and his fire control, while also training on other things potentially - leading to a stronger overall Pokemon.

Which one led to a stronger Pokemon over its lifetime?

If he had plenty of time, then probably the first, but it would mean wasting weeks and months on simply practicing a few techniques from the ground up.

He intended to be gym leader, he did not only have his team which he had to train into powerhouses, but if he wanted to impress and showcase he had what it took, he also needed to begin gathering and training more Pokemon.

He needed to be ready to step in as a gym leader from day one to convince anyone he could do it. So with so many Pokemon he'd eventually have to split time between, that one or two percent of efficiency or skill, just wasn't worth it.

Besides, he had faith that his training could squeeze out that percentage in benefits in other avenues, like how he'd managed to get his 'mons Shadow Ball's to be much faster, denser, and more deadly.

As he thought it over, he made his way through the city, just enjoying the ambient noise of a proper city as he walked, heading towards the department store.

The department store was a colossal building, its exterior a mix of sleek glass panels and ornate stonework that gave it a modern yet not too artificial look. The large entrance was framed by stone pillars, and a steady stream of people flowed in and out, each one carrying bags filled with purchases. Ezra made his way through the crowd, weaving between groups of trainers, shoppers, and the occasional Pokemon, until he reached the grand entrance.

Inside, the Goldenrod department store was a hive of activity. The interior was large enough to fit a modern mall and well-lit, with high ceilings and polished floors that gleamed under the bright lights. A large chandelier hung from the center of the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the entire area. Escalators crisscrossed the open space, taking customers to different levels, while signs directed them to various departments: clothing, electronics, Pokemon supplies, and, most importantly for Ezra, TMs.

He made his way to the escalators, riding up to the fifth floor, where the TMs were sold. The floor was dedicated to all things Pokemon, with aisles filled with Pokeballs, potions, berries, and other essential items. But it was the large glass display cases filled with TMs that caught Ezra's eye. Behind the counter, rows of brightly colored discs were arranged meticulously, each one representing a different move. There were common TMs like Water Pulse and Thunder Wave, but what Ezra was really after were the more rare and powerful moves.

He could teach his Pokemon simple moves on his own, he felt. Especially with how smart they'd turned out to be. Rider had managed Iron tail quickly after all, and had already transitioned that towards Iron Head and Iron Club, all on his own, playing around with the energy during training time.

He wasn't sure if it was how much focus he was putting on having his Pokemon constantly work on better harnessing their energy and feeling it out - or if he just had very clever 'mon, that was behind that development.

He approached the counter, where a middle-aged man with a receding hairline and a friendly smile greeted him. The man's uniform identified him as the store manager, and his eyes lit up as he saw the look of intent on Ezra's face.

A retail slave knew the look of someone willing to spend money.

"Looking for some TMs, young man?" The manager asked, his tone friendly but businesslike. Only his eyes showed the greed for the possibility of a big sale, not quite to the level of animesque dollar signs for eyes - but not that far away from it.

"Yeah, I'm in the mood to splash some cash, old timer." Ezra replied distractedly, his eyes scanning the rows of discs behind the man. "I'm looking for the best you've got. I've got a lot of Pokemon to outfit, so I'm going to need a variety."

The manager's smile widened slightly, while his eyes grew brighter. "You've come to the right place young sir. We've got a fine selection here for all your Pokemon needs. Anything in particular you're looking for?"

Ezra nodded, his gaze settling on a few of the discs. "I'm definitely interested in Earthquake, Ice Beam, Thunderbolt, Fire Blast, Psychic, and Hyper Beam, to start."

The manager's eyes widened slightly, clearly very happy, especially since he'd added the qualifier to start. With the price of high value techniques starting at around 50 000 and up, he was making one hell of a sale today.

Ezra looked over the display, mulling over what he saw, "Add Drain Punch there too…" He muttered, mostly talking to himself. He had vague plans to get a Primeape and evolve it to an Annihilape, although it wouldn't be easy with the qualifier for that evolution. Drain Punch would fit as a move for the Fighting/Ghost type, allowing it to deal damage, while being healed back for fifty percent of the damage dealt.

He had a decent team as was, but as much as it would suck, the four on the team right now might not all make it onto his 'top' team in the end. It was all a matter of flexibility. His Haunter for example couldn't really do anything that special that his Shuppet or Spiritomb couldn't do as well.

So while buying, he needed to think of the future as well. He wasn't as attached to his 'mon as some trainers no doubt were, and as a future gym leader he couldn't be. Whether Cheshire stayed on the team or ended up one of the high level challenges for his gym, would remain to be seen - but with literal dozens of Pokemon needed to run the gym, he wouldn't be able to treat them all like they were his special babies.

Although Rider would probably keep a special place in his heart. Cubone's were one of his favorites after all, and being an Alolan Marowak now was just amazing.

The manager quickly gathered the TMs, stacking them neatly on the counter, almost vibrating with joy, although he also kept them out of reach until he saw the cash, not entirely stupid then. "You've got quite the collection here, young sir. Is there anything else you'd like?"

Ezra considered for a moment before nodding his head. "Yeah, throw in Toxic as well." It wouldn't fit all his Pokemon, but it was a good tool in his arsenal. "Add Giga Impact as well."

Hyperbeam and Giga Impact were both normal moves, but he'd have Dark Pokemon capable of using one or the other at some point, and Giga Impact might be possible for Annihilape to learn. Worst case and he couldn't find a good use for them, he'd give them as prizes for the opening of his gym one day.

He also adds about a dozen of more minor utility techniques, quickly pointing them out.

The manager took the discs out, and Ezra nodded decisively, "That should do for now. How much?"

The manager took a moment to tally up the price. "Well, you're looking at a substantial order here, Nine high-tier techniques, 13 minor ones... Altogether, that'll come to… 565,000 Pokedollars."

Ezra's expression didn't change, but inwardly he winced at the price. He had expected it to be expensive, but this was more than he had anticipated, then again he had chosen all the most expensive techniques. He leaned casually on the counter, looking the manager in the eye. "That's quite a bit. I'm buying in bulk here, giving you quite the windfall. How many of these do you sell a month? Not many, right? Surely you can knock the price down a bit."

The manager smiled, clearly used to this kind of negotiation. "I understand, but these are some of the best TMs available. We don't get discounts on them often." Which wasn't an outright no.

Ezra raised an eyebrow, playing it cool. "I'm sure you could make an exception, especially for someone who might bring in repeat business. How about 500,000 even?"

The manager chuckled softly, shaking his head. "500,000 is a bit too low for this order. How about we meet in the middle as a favor for a valued customer? 550,000." He offered.

Ezra considered it, making a face, how is that in the middle? He was getting a decent deal anyway, but he wanted to push just a bit more. He wasn't one to meekly accept anything, not when there was any chance to push ahead. "530,000, actually more in the middle, and I'll pay in cash, right now."

With the cost of the techniques, the guy probably saw one or two high end ones sold a month, until the end of the circuit where he might sell a dozen as trainers flush with cash rush to prepare for the Indigo League. This would probably make his year, so Ezra felt confident he could afford to push for the lower fee.

The manager hesitated, weighing the offer. Finally, he nodded. "Alright, you've got a deal young sir." He said, unable to hide his pleasure at the deal, and his windfall. "You drive a hard bargain, young man, a hard bargain indeed. Very interesting."

Ezra smirked, satisfied with the deal. He counted out the money and handed it over, having pulled a sweet million out of the bank before leaving Cherrygrove. He watched as the manager carefully packed the TMs into a sleek black case. Once the transaction was complete, Ezra picked up the case, feeling the weight of the discs inside. These TMs would be invaluable in strengthening his team in the future.

With his new TMs in hand, Ezra made his way back to the ground floor, his mind already strategizing how to best incorporate the new moves into his Pokemon's arsenals, including the ones he planned to catch in the future. As he reached the exit, he stopped by the information desk, manned by a young woman with a bright smile, an Eevee curled up in her lap, which perfectly led into his second target in the city.

"Excuse me," Ezra began, "I'm looking for an Eevee breeder in the city. I heard there's a good one around here, but I couldn't find an address when I looked online." Really the net is shit, gotta work on that when I have time..

The woman's smile widened, petting her Eeeve's head, likely a family Pokemon or caught in the wild, since buying from breeders were ridiculously expensive. "You must be talking about Aaron's family. They've been breeding Eevees for years. Their place is on the outskirts of the city, near Route 34. It's a bit off the beaten path, but if you follow the road out of town and keep an eye out, you'll find it."

Ezra nodded, making a mental note of the directions. "Thanks. I'll head over there now."

With his purchases secured and a new lead on finding the Eevee breeder, Ezra stepped out of the department store and into the bustling streets of Goldenrod once more.

Umbreon awaited.

Once he got his hands on an Eevee it was only a matter of time.

Shortly thereafter, Route 34

Ezra's footsteps crunched on the gravel road as he approached the Eevee breeder's ranch, the expansive estate coming into view as he crested a small hill on the outskirts of Goldenrod City. The ranch house was large, almost mansion-like, with a sprawling yard that extended far beyond what the eye could see. The property was surrounded by a tall iron fence, and as Ezra drew closer, he noticed the subtle but unmistakable signs of heavy security.

Cameras were positioned strategically along the perimeter, their lenses glinting in the afternoon sun. Trainers patrolled the grounds, although he wasn't sure if it was simply family members or hired security. It was clear either way that this place took its security seriously, and for good reason - Eevees were among the most sought-after Pokemon in the world.

Their potential for multiple evolutions made them highly desirable, and this ranch was likely one of the few places in Johto/Kanto where they could be obtained. Although the evolutions wasn't even their main sticking point he'd wager. Girls and women buying Eevee's because they were cute, likely accounted for the majority of sales.

Not everything was about battling.

Ezra couldn't help but smirk as he took in the sight of the ranch. One day soon, if all went according to plan, he'd be putting breeders like this out of business, or at least limiting their capacity to simply selling Eevee's for their cuteness to local women. His partnership with Steven Stone would allow him to mass-produce rare Pokemon evolutions, including several Eeveelutions that hadn't even been discovered yet.

Once that got rolling, buyers would flock to them, and even simple Eeeve's or known Eeveelutions like Flareon and Jolteon would be purchased from his farms, as customers got used to buying from him. People with lots of money tended to want to buy from the best - if nothing else for bragging rights about how their Pokemon came from the premier breeder.

The world didn't even know about Umbreon, Espeon and Sylveon yet. And despite the knowledge of how to evolve Eeeve's to Flareon and Jolteon, the amount of Glaceon and Vaporeon out there seemed of limited quantity. Evolution stones were not cheap. Weirdly enough he hadn't found anything on Leafeon, despite the evolution being exactly the same as the others, just with a leaf stone instead of fire/ice/water etc.

Well, he'd cash in on it all when all of Kanto and Johto would flock to his farm for all the rare Evolutions on sale. They could even afford to sell for lower prices to kill ranches like this, upping the prices once the competition was dead - thanks to the money they'd make on prism scales and selling Milotic's.

But that was for the future, and for now, he needed an Eevee - specifically, one he could evolve into an Umbreon. And for that, he needed to get inside and bully or bribe himself into it, as he doubted they had one for sale so easily.

Breeders likely had their Eeeve's sold before they were even born after all.

He approached the tall, wrought-iron gate that served as the entrance to the ranch. A small security booth was situated next to it, and as he neared, one of the guards stepped out to meet him, hand resting casually on one of the Pokeballs at his hip.

Ezra studied him critically, I could take him, he decided arbitrarily, mostly due to the fact he didn't like his face.

Weasely looking guys were generally weasels.

"Can I help you, brat?" The guard asked, his tone itching for an excuse to do something.

Ezra, who was beginning to tire of being called kid or brat by nearly everyone he met, forced a smile that might have had more teeth then what was strictly necessary for a smile. "I'm here to buy an Eevee," He replied, keeping his tone friendly but direct, for now…

He really didn't like this dude's face.

The guard shook his head, his expression narrowing in distaste. "Sorry brat," He said mockingly, not sounding all that sorry, "But we only sell to people who have pre-booked appointments. If you don't have one, I'm going to have to ask you to leave, or else..."

Ezra snorted, we? The man in a security booth at the edge of the property was like the equivalent of the minimum wage worker, hardly involved in the Ranch's business. We… Someone thinks highly of themselves…

Seeing the man's face redden as he fingered his Pokeballs more intently, Ezra settled for a more diplomatic approach. As much fun as it would be scaring the crap out of this idiot, or beating him in a Pokemon battle - that would likely end his chances at negotiating for an Eevee.

Ezra's eyes narrowed slightly even as he faked a polite smile. "I'm willing to pay extra," He offered, hinting that there was something extra in hand for him too, "I don't mind waiting if you have to clear it with the owner, but I'm not leaving without at least talking to him, there's a lot of money involved here…"

The guard regarded him for a moment, clearly weighing his options, likely wanting to kick his ass to the curb. The lure of money or the fear of his boss finding out he stopped a lucrative deal from even reaching the door likely kept him back. Finally, with a disgusted sigh, he gestured towards the security booth. "Wait here. I'll see if the boss is available." He muttered angrily.

Ezra nodded with fake pleasantry, watching as the guard retreated into the booth to make a call. He knew this wasn't going to be easy - people who ran operations like this weren't usually swayed easily. But Ezra was determined, and if there was one thing he'd learned in this world, it was that persistence often paid off. Or at least audacity…

Like any world based on a game or anime, never giving up wasn't just a decent character trait - it was an actual superpower.

After a few minutes, the guard reemerged, his expression sour. "The boss will be out in a moment. But don't get your hopes up - like I said, we only sell by appointment." He sneered down at him, his weasely face growing even uglier, "You'll be sent packing soon enough…"

Ezra nodded again, already putting the weasel out of his mind, his mind already turning over possible strategies. He knew from checking online before he came to Goldenrod that Eevees typically sold for between 100,000 and 150,000 Pokedollars for the unevolved kind, but he was prepared to offer significantly more if that's what it took.

He didn't necessarily need an Umbreon right now. But he damn well wanted one, and he didn't want to wait, now that he was flush with cash.

A few minutes later, the ranch's owner emerged from the main house. He was an older man, perhaps in his late fifties, with graying hair and a neatly trimmed beard. His eyes were sharp, and he carried himself with the confidence of someone who had been in the business for a long time. As he approached, the guard stepped back, allowing him to address Ezra directly.

"I hear you're looking for an Eevee," The man said, his tone measured and cautious. "As my guard likely told you, we only sell to customers with pre-booked slots. Our next available slot is over a year from now."

Ezra didn't miss a beat. "I understand that, but I'm willing to make it worth your while to push one of those slots back. I'll pay 200,000 Pokedollars for an Eevee today."

As a breeder, the man could easily tell one of his customers they'd get a later slot because unfortunately one of the little ones died or whatever excuse he'd need to make up. A wild Pokemon flew down from the sky and ate it would suffice as an excuse as well. Ezra just needed to push it until the man chose to go that avenue and lose maybe just a little bit of reputation.

The man's eyes flickered with interest, but he shook his head. "I appreciate the offer, but we have a reputation to uphold. People book slots with us because they know we're reliable. Pushing someone's slot back would damage that trust."

Not an unreasonable stand to take. But Ezra had seen that flicker of greed, of interest. The man wasn't as unwilling as he appeared, he had a price. Like most men did.

Arceus knows Ezra could be bought to do any number of things if someone was willing to offer a crazy enough price.

Ezra could see the man was tempted, so the easy choice was to tempt him further. "How about 225,000?" Ezra offered, keeping his voice smooth. "I'm not asking you to give up your reputation - just to make a small exception, this one time, slowing down things for one of your minor customers in return."

The owner frowned, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered the offer. "It's not just about the money," He said slowly, almost drawn out. "It's about the principles of running a business. If word got out that we were taking bribes to move customers up the queue, it would damage us in the long run."

Ezra sighed inwardly. He was so close, but he could see the man's hesitation writ on his face. "I'm not bribing anyone," He totally was, "I'm just offering a fair price for a rush order." He pressed, trying a different angle. "Just push one person's appointment back a bit. They'll still get their Eevee, just a little later than expected. No one needs to know how that happened, and you make 300,000 Pokedollars today."

The man remained silent, his eyes locked on Ezra's. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he spoke. "300,000," He said, his voice pondering. "If you can give me that now, today, cash in hand… Then we have a deal."

Ezra didn't hesitate. "Deal." He said, reaching forward to shake his hand.

With Hammer space bags, it had been easy transporting his cool million, although with his two spending sprees it would be down quite a lot.

The owner nodded, appearing satisfied with the agreement. "Wait here. I'll have one of the Eevees meant for sale in the next cycle brought out."

Ezra felt a wave of happiness come over him as he waited, keeping his expression neutral despite the victory he felt inside. A few minutes later, one of the guards returned with a Pokeball, which he handed to the owner.

Ezra gave him his cash, privately grumbling about how much easier an electronic transaction would be. But he'd been advised by the bank in Cherrygrove after he received his ten million from Stone, that most citizens and private businesses would not do large deals in anything but cash.

If you were dealing with the League or national corporations it was different, but Kanto and Johto citizens were slow to fully switch to a more modern convenience when it came to payments.

The older man inspected the money briefly before passing the Pokeball to Ezra, his Pokedex giving out a ding, as the owner sent over the verification that the Pokemon was now transferred into his ownership.

He needed to get himself some Porygons and begin to really build up the net a little, the more people that used it, the easier it would become to do business electronically. At least Steven Stone didn't live in the stone age…

Ezra took the Pokeball, feeling its cool, smooth surface in his hand. He could already imagine the possibilities this little Pokemon would open up for him, his first Dark Pokemon, Spiritomb was a mix and didn't count. "I won't say a word, pleasure doing business with you…"

I'll get that 300,000 back when I buy your ranch for a pittance when I run you out of business anyway, he thought somewhat callously.

He wanted it all, power, fame, influence.

And you didn't become a billionaire by caring about every little business you crushed on your way to the top. His evolution business with Stone wasn't his only idea either. Just the easiest one to get off the ground.

He had lived a life that promised to leave absolutely no mark behind, his passing likely even a relief to family and friends who'd had to see him suffer, or waste their time helping him. He would ensure everyone knew his name in the end.

The owner nodded. "Good. I hope you understand why we don't usually make exceptions like this."

Ezra gave a small nod, already distracted. "I do. Thank you for making this one." He muttered, looking down at the Pokeball in his hand.

He'd only let Eevee out at night from now on, training and befriending the Pokemon, until it was an Umbreon. Without seeing a single ray of daylight, surely it wouldn't take too long…

With the transaction complete, Ezra turned and began the walk back towards the city.

As the ranch house faded into the distance, Ezra couldn't help but grin. Today was a success, but tomorrow? Tomorrow would be even better.

And he'd continue to do that, improve his situation, day by day,

Until he stood at the top.

Unforgettable!

That evening, Goldenrod City.

Goldenrod City was alive with energy as the evening set in, the bustling metropolis glowing under the soft lights of streetlamps and neon signs. The city, known for its thriving commerce, had a way of drawing people in, making them forget about the world outside its borders. Ezra found himself enjoying the luxurious atmosphere as he sat in one of the city's finest restaurants, a place where the elite of Johto came to dine.

It cost more than it should, as any restaurant catering to the rich and famous, but he wasn't too worried about expenditure.

The restaurant itself was made to attract the snobbery of the ultra rich. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a warm, golden glow over the richly appointed room. The tables were draped in fine embroidered linens, and the chairs were upholstered in plush, velvet fabric. Waiters moved silently between tables, their movements smooth and practiced as they served impeccably plated dishes to the well-dressed patrons.

Ezra sat at a table near a large window that overlooked the city, enjoying the view as much as the meal before him. The food was exquisite, each bite a burst of flavor that spoke of the chef's skill. He had allowed himself this indulgence, knowing that with the money from his recent sale of the Crystal Onix, he could afford a little luxury.

He was midway through his meal, savoring a particularly tender cut of meat, when his Pokedex buzzed in his pocket, interrupting the peaceful moment. Ezra frowned, pulling the device out and glancing at the screen. His eyes widened slightly in surprise as he saw the caller ID.

Professor Oak.

Ezra hesitated, his finger hovering over the accept button. Oak was a legend in the Pokemon world obviously, the man responsible for some of the most important research in the field, and someone whose reputation extended far beyond Kanto. But the idea of talking to the vaunted professor was not something Ezra had been expecting, nor was it something he was particularly eager to do. He was enjoying his night, and Oak's sudden interest could only mean one thing - questions. And Ezra wasn't sure he was ready to answer them.

He let the call go to voicemail, slipping the Pokedex back into his pocket and returning his attention to his meal. But no sooner had he picked up his fork than the Pokedex buzzed again, the screen lighting up with the same name.

Ezra frowned deeper, ignoring it once more. He wasn't in the mood for this, not now, not here. But when the Pokedex buzzed a third time, Ezra let out a sigh, realizing that the professor was not going to give up so easily.

"Damn it," Ezra muttered under his breath. He couldn't ignore it forever, not without drawing even more attention to himself. He glanced around the restaurant, then made up his mind. If Oak wanted to talk so badly, he'd get his wish - but on Ezra's terms. He wouldn't be giving anything away for free.

He wasn't one of the adherents worshiping at his feet. Ezra's knowledge was pay to play. No freebies.

He pushed back his chair, standing up and leaving the table. The waiter noticed his movement and approached, but Ezra waved him off with a quick, "Just need to freshen up, I'll be back."

He made his way to the bathroom at the back of the restaurant, pushing open the door to find it blessedly empty. The bathroom was just as opulent as the dining area, with marble countertops and polished fixtures that gleamed under the soft lighting. Ezra stepped inside and locked the door behind him, ensuring that he would have the privacy he needed for this conversation.

A flicker of amusement ran through him at the thought he'd likely be the first person to ever discuss things with the Professor in a public bathroom.

With a resigned sigh he waited for the fifth call to start as he pulled out his Pokedex and finally accepted the call. The screen flickered to life, and the familiar face of Professor Oak appeared, his eyes bright with excitement and a wide smile on his face.

"Ezra Kassian?" Oak exclaimed, his voice practically bubbling with enthusiasm. "I've been trying to reach you all day! I hope I'm not interrupting anything too important."

All day? It's been like five minutes, chill a bit old-timer…

Ezra leaned against the marble counter, his expression carefully neutral as he pondered how he was going to play this exactly. "I was in the middle of something," He said, his tone polite but distant, as he decided he had no reason to be overly friendly. "What's this about, Professor?"

Oak's smile didn't waver, though there was a glint in his eyes that told Ezra the man was not easily put off. "Straight to the point, I see. Well, I suppose there's no use in beating around the bush. I've been hearing some fascinating things about you, Ezra. Specifically, about a rather unique Marowak you have in your possession - a Ghost-type, if I'm not mistaken?"

Ezra's eyes narrowed slightly. Of course, word had spread fast. He had known it was only a matter of time before someone like Oak caught wind of Rider, but that didn't mean he was ready to spill all his secrets. Drake probably blabbed about it, or the Orange League win going into the system might have also had his Pokemon entered, he hadn't stayed long enough to know the details.

"That's somewhat correct, although I suspect he's a Ghost/Fire dual type in actuality." Ezra said cautiously, dangling at least a little bit of information as bait to prepare the trap. "What about it?"

Oak leaned closer to the camera, his excitement almost palpable. "Even if it's not, a Ghost-type Marowak! It's unheard of! This could be a significant breakthrough in Pokemon science, a dual type would just make it even more exciting! I'd love to know how you managed such a transformation. Was it a special environment? A unique item? A particular training regimen?" A notebook and pen was suddenly in his hands, his mien almost manic.

Ezra resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Did this usually work on people? "Professor, with all due respect, I'm not inclined to share that information."

Oak blinked, clearly taken aback. "Not inclined…? But, Ezra, think of the implications! If we can understand how this transformation occurred, it could open up new avenues for research, for training. We could help other trainers achieve similar results, improve the bond between humans and Pokemon. This is important work, my boy!"

Ezra's expression hardened, if he disliked being called kid or brat, being called my boy was even worse... "Important work that could also ruin me," He said bluntly. "I'm going into business, Professor. I have several rare evolutions lined up that aren't even known yet, and if I start sharing all my secrets now, I risk losing everything I'm building. I can't afford that."

Oak's brow furrowed, his enthusiasm dimming as he listened. "I see. So it's about business, then." He paused, clearly trying to find the right words. "Ezra, I understand your concerns, but surely you can see the greater good here. Pokemon research is about more than just making money - it's about advancing our understanding, about sharing knowledge so that everyone can benefit. If you were to share your findings, I could sign a non-disclosure agreement. I wouldn't publish any of it, not until you're ready. I just want to know, to learn."

Ezra regarded Oak with a cool, calculating gaze. The professor's argument was sound, but Ezra had learned to be cautious. He didn't trust easily, and he wasn't about to risk everything on a promise, no matter how reputable the source. Whatever Oak said, the knowledge he had was the lynchpin of his business, and giving it to Oak in any manner, risked that business.

"What's in it for me?" Ezra asked, his tone sharp and direct, making no bones about it. What can you offer for me to take this risk?

Oak looked surprised by the question. "What's in it for you? Isn't the satisfaction of knowing you've contributed to the advancement of Pokemon sciences enough?"

A former champion should not be this naive, or is he playing me?

Ezra rubbed his fingers together in a gesture that was unmistakable, scratch, moolah, money. "Not really," He said, his voice flat. "You're asking me to take a risk. I'm asking what I get in return. If I tell you how I did it, how do I know it won't leak, even accidentally? How do I know I won't be undercut by someone else?"

Oak's expression turned stern, his earlier enthusiasm replaced by a more serious demeanor. "Ezra, I'm not in the habit of paying off trainers for information. That's not how this works." He chided.

Ezra shrugged, unbothered by the professor's disapproval. "Then how about a favor?" He offered, willing to grasp an opportunity. Rider's evolution likely wouldn't be a high seller anyway, so he could risk that one, for the right price. Only that one.

He wasn't entirely as unwilling as he played it. But pushing Oak where he wanted was a long shot, hence playing very unwilling from the start.

Oak's eyes narrowed. "What kind of favor?" His voice was definitely not as cheerful anymore.

Ezra didn't hesitate, striking for the jugular. "You put your voice behind me to become a gym leader when the time comes. Once I've beaten the gym leaders of Kanto and proven my worth, you use your influence to help push for my appointment. That's my price."

He hoped it wasn't too much to ask, since if he failed to even beat the gym leaders, Oak was off scot-free.

Oak's expression shifted to one of discomfort. "I don't get involved in that sort of thing anymore, Ezra. It's not my place to interfere in the League's decisions." He said, immediately dismissive.

Ezra nodded slowly, showing no disappointment, it had been a long shot anyway. "Then I guess we don't have a deal. But if you ever change your mind - say, after I've introduced ten or so new evolutions to the world - let me know." He said with a bit of a smirk, "Although this deal would only be for one evolution, or course."

Oak looked conflicted, his mouth opening as if to say something more, but then he closed it, a frown settling on his face. "You're an odd boy, Ezra," He said, his tone gruff. "I'm not used to this kind of negotiation."

Ezra smiled faintly, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "You learn something new everyday, Professor. We all have to adapt to survive and grow."

Oak sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "Well, I suppose this conversation is over for now. But remember, Ezra - knowledge is meant to be shared. Don't lose sight of that, profit is one thing, to a point, but the world needs knowledge to be spread around and shared."

Ezra dearly wanted to point out that when Oak had invented the Pokedex, he sure as hell hadn't shared it for free with the other Professors, the League, or anyone else, his recent research being performed partly from the profit of the sale of the machines. Calling him a hypocrite probably won't have him crawling back and offering that favor later… So I'd better not.

Ezra gave a slight nod to show he'd heard the man, showing none of his thoughts. "I'll keep that in mind. Goodbye, Professor."

He ended the call, the screen going dark as the connection severed. For a moment, Ezra just stood there, staring at his reflection in the marble countertop. The encounter had left him feeling uneasy, but he knew he had made the right decision. He wasn't ready to trust anyone with his secrets. There was too much at stake.

This wasn't the Anime where Oak was the nice old scientist always eager to lend a hand or some advice. This man had been a monster, and while softer now, could still probably tear down mountains. He did not want to become dependent on his generosity if he shared too much.

With a deep breath, Ezra slipped the Pokedex back into his pocket and turned to leave the bathroom. He had a meal waiting for him, and he intended to enjoy it - after all, he didn't get the chance to dine like this every day.

Although in the future… He would.

Perhaps he'd bring fine dining to Lavender himself…

Two days later,

The sun hung low in the sky as Ezra approached the Ruins of Alph in Johto, the ruins casting long shadows that stretched across the desolate landscape. The ruins were ancient, their origins lost to time, and even from a distance, they radiated a palpable sense of mystery and unease. Unlike the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of Goldenrod City, the Ruins of Alph felt like a place frozen in time, where the past lingered just beneath the surface, whispering secrets to those brave enough to listen.

The path leading to the ruins was overgrown with weeds, the cobblestones cracked and uneven from years of neglect. Gnarled trees lined the road, their twisted branches reaching out like skeletal fingers, creating a canopy that filtered the dying light, making it seem as though the night had already fallen. As Ezra walked, he could feel the temperature drop, the air growing colder with each step he took toward the ancient site. A sense of anticipation tingled at the back of his mind, mixed with an almost primal caution.

He'd known about the Ruins of Alph thanks to foreknowledge. The ruins were the home to the enigmatic Unown, Pokemon that took on the shapes of letters and symbols. Ezra had no interest in disturbing the Unown. His goal was far more practical - the ruins' eerie atmosphere and dark aura made it the perfect place to train his Ghost Pokemon, and perhaps, if he was lucky, draw in some new additions to his team.

The closer he got to the ruins, the more foreboding the atmosphere became. The ruins themselves were partially submerged in the ground, as if they had been swallowed by the earth over centuries. The stone walls were covered in moss and ivy, and large chunks of the structure had crumbled away, leaving gaping holes that hinted at the labyrinthine tunnels and chambers below. Strange symbols were etched into the stones, some of them worn and faded, while others looked as though they had been carved only yesterday. The entire area was suffused with a sense of dread, as though the very air was thick with the weight of ancient secrets.

Ezra stopped at the edge of the ruins, taking in the sight before him. He could feel his pulse quicken, not out of fear, but out of excitement. This was exactly the kind of place he had been looking for - a place where the boundary between the world of the living and the world of the dead seemed thin, where the veil that separated reality from the unknown was almost transparent.

"This will do nicely," He muttered to himself, his voice low. He could already feel the stirrings of something deep within him, a connection to the dark that had always been a part of him since he arrived on this world.

He found a small clearing just outside the ruins, far enough away to avoid any unwanted attention but close enough to feel the pulse of the ancient energies that lingered here. The ground was uneven, with patches of dead grass and exposed roots, but it was flat enough for his purposes.

Ezra began by releasing his Pokemon from their Pokeballs, one by one. First was Rider, his loyal Marowak, who appeared with a quiet growl, its flaming bone club casting an eerie glow across the clearing. Next was Nyx, his Spiritomb, who materialized in a swirl of dark energy, its 'face' shifting and muttering floating above the keystone. Loki, his Shuppet, floated above the ground, its mischievous eyes gleaming in the dim light, while Cheshire, his Haunter, emerged from Ezra's shadow, its wide grin filled with sharp teeth. The Ghosts seemed to revel in the environment, their forms flickering and pulsing with energy as they absorbed the ambient darkness of the ruins.

Ezra kept Pidgeot and his newly acquired Eevee in their Pokeballs. This wasn't the kind of environment they were suited for, and he didn't want to bring the Eevee out in the daytime either. It would soon be night, but this was hardly suitable for a first training session for his new Pokemon, so he'd abstain until he was somewhere safer.

The air grew colder still as Ezra settled into the clearing, meditating on his shadow for a few hours as his Pokemon trained just outside the clearing, the shadows deepening as the last vestiges of sunlight disappeared beyond the horizon. The ruins loomed ominously in the background, their ancient stones bathed in the pale light of the rising moon. This was a place of power, a place where darkness thrived, and Ezra intended to harness that power to strengthen his Pokemon - and himself.

"Alright, let's get started," He said, mostly to himself. His Pokemon already knew their routines, already working at their techniques, their energy expenditure and efficiency, practicing religiously.

Tonight was more about him.

Ezra closed his eyes, reaching out with his senses, feeling for the darkness that was always just beneath the surface. It was easier here, in this place, where the shadows seemed almost alive, pulsing with energy that was ancient and primal. He focused on his shadow, willing it to move, to shift and bend to his will. Slowly, it began to respond, stretching out from beneath him, growing longer and more distinct until it no longer mirrored his form but moved independently.

The shadow rippled and twisted, and Ezra could feel a connection between it and the surrounding darkness. He concentrated harder, pushing his will into the shadow, trying to coax it into doing more. He had already learned to hide his Ghost Pokemon within it, but he knew there was more he could do - more he could learn. He just had to figure out how.

"Come on," He muttered under his breath, his brow furrowing in concentration. "There's got to be more..."

The shadow responded, shifting and coiling like a living thing. It stretched out across the ground, forming tendrils that reached towards the edges of the clearing, intertwining with the roots and stones. Ezra could feel the darkness within him, the same darkness that had allowed him to connect with Ghost and Dark-types, and he pushed that feeling into the shadow, willing it to become stronger, to draw in the power that surrounded him.

Nyx and Cheshire seemed to sense what he was doing and joined in, their ghostly forms flickering as they merged with the shadow, becoming part of it. The air around them grew colder, the shadows deepening further as the Ghosts lent their energy to Ezra's efforts. Loki hovered nearby, its eyes gleaming with amusement as it watched the spectacle, while Rider remained focused on its training, like the special boi he was.

Ezra gritted his teeth, feeling the strain of his efforts. He was pushing his abilities further than he ever had before, but he knew this was the place to do it. The ruins seemed to be a nexus of dark energy of some sort, and he could feel that energy responding to him, feeding into his shadow, making it stronger, more tangible.

He tried to push the shadow further, attempting to lift one of the large stones that littered the clearing. The shadow trembled, reaching out like an invisible hand, but it faltered, the energy slipping away before it could gain a proper hold. Ezra let out a frustrated growl, his fists clenching as he pushed harder, willing the shadow to obey.

As the shadow returned to its normal state, Ezra turned his attention back to his Pokemon. The Ghosts had been watching him intently, their eyes gleaming with interest. They always became more active whenever he'd actively use his shadow.

"Alright," Ezra said, his voice steady and confident. "Let's see if we can draw in some company." He'd practice more with his shadow lately, he felt pretty drained now.

He closed his eyes again, focusing on the dark aura that had always surrounded him. It was a part of him, something that had grown stronger since he had started training Ghost-types. It was more than just an affinity - it was a connection, a bond with the darkness itself - a bond with death, he assumed.

One of the benefits of having died, perhaps. And from what he'd seen, it drew Dark and Ghost types to him, even those owned by other trainers having a hard time taking their eyes off him.

Ezra let the aura seep out of him, slowly at first, like an invisible mist spreading through the clearing. The temperature seemed to drop further, and the shadows around him seemed to grow darker, more defined. His Pokemon, already attuned to the darkness, seemed to feed off this energy, their forms becoming more distinct, more powerful.

Cheshire floated closer, its wide, unsettling grin growing even more pronounced. The Haunter's hands crackled with dark energy, tendrils of shadow trailing from its claws as it drifted through the air. Nyx's face shifted into multiple faces, their expressions menacing, as if feeding off the eerie energy that Ezra was exuding. Loki cackled softly to itself, its normally mischievous demeanor taking on a more sinister edge as it danced through the shadows. Even Rider, the most grounded of Ezra's team, seemed more intense, its flame burning brighter, its eyes glowing with a fiercer light.

Ezra's heart pounded in his chest as he pushed his aura further, letting it extend beyond the clearing, out into the surrounding forest and toward the ruins themselves. He wasn't sure what he was hoping to attract - wild Ghost Pokemon, perhaps some Dark-types drawn to the power he was radiating. This place, so close to the ruins, felt like the perfect place to test his limits.

He knew places with an unsettling aura like these ruins would be rife with Ghost and Dark types. Just like they fed on his aura, they fed on places like these.

There was a reason these types were found in ruins, desolated lands, and places like Lavender, and not just in any patch of tall grass. Hence also why most people didn't have the capability of training them or the wish to try. They had a bit of a bad reputation.

He imagined the aura as a net, cast wide to snare anything that might be lurking in the shadows. The forest around him was silent as he pushed himself as hard as he could, his breathing coming fast and heavy. The usual sounds of wildlife were stifled by the oppressive atmosphere he was creating. Even the wind seemed to hold its breath, waiting.

If he was drained of energy by working on his shadow, it was nothing to what he felt right now, feeling like he was expending his soul, or to quote Bilbo, like butter scraped too thin over bread.

Minutes passed, each one stretching out into eternity as Ezra maintained his focus, holding the aura steady. His muscles ached from the effort despite not being used. The tension in the air was palpable, like the moments before a storm breaks, and Ezra could feel the energy building, intensifying with every passing second.

Then, finally, he felt it - a presence at the edge of his awareness. Something was there, lurking just beyond the circle of trees, just outside the range of his vision. Ezra didn't move, didn't break his focus, but he directed his aura toward the presence, probing it, inviting it to come closer.

The presence hesitated, and for a moment, Ezra thought it might retreat. But then it began to move, slowly, cautiously, as if testing the waters. The air grew colder still, the darkness around Ezra seeming to thicken, to take on a life of its own as the presence drew nearer. Ezra could feel the tension in his Pokemon, their senses heightened, their eyes locked on the trees at the edge of the clearing.

And then, out of the shadows, it appeared.

A Duskull floated into the clearing, its single red eye glowing like a beacon in the darkness. Its body was shrouded in a tattered cloak of shadows, its movements slow and deliberate as it approached the edge of the clearing. The Duskull's eye fixed on Ezra, and for a moment, the two of them simply stared at each other, each one assessing the other.

He could sense more presences now, drawn to the clearing by the power he was radiating. They were small, flickering lights on the edge of his awareness, but they were there, watching, waiting. Ezra knew that if he pushed harder, he could draw them in, bring them to him. He could expand his team even further, strengthening his bond with the darkness.

But he also knew that there was a risk. The more he pushed, the more power he drew in, the harder it would be to control. He was already feeling the strain, the edges of his consciousness fraying as he held the aura steady.

But that was the point of this training, wasn't it? To push his limits, to see how far he could go before he broke. He had already learned so much tonight - about his shadow, about his aura, about the connection he could form with the darkness. But there was more to learn, more to discover.

With a deep breath, Ezra pushed harder, letting the darkness flood out of him, letting it seep into every corner of the forest, every crack in the ruins. The energy swirled around him, thick and suffocating, the air so cold it burned.

And then, the presences began to move.

They came from the forest, from the ruins, from the shadows themselves. A swarm of Ghost Pokemon, drawn to the power that Ezra was radiating. They moved like a wave, swirling around him, their forms flickering in and out of existence as they merged with the shadows.

A Sableye skittered through the shadows, its gemstone eyes reflecting the dim light of the moon. A Shedinja flitted in and out of his sight. Misdreavous and Yamask danced in the air. Litwicks and Lampents lit up the clearing. There was even a Mimikyu peeking around a tree at the edge of the clearing. His jaw dropped when a Dreepy floated into sight, his hand twitching towards a Pokeball.

He was beginning to suspect he was getting help from somewhere, because even if his aura was addictive, this was beyond his wildest dreams.

Ezra could feel them all, their energy feeding into his own, amplifying his aura, making it stronger, more potent. The darkness around him pulsed with power, the air vibrating with the sheer intensity of it.

But with the power came the risk. Ezra could feel the edges of his control slipping, the darkness threatening to overwhelm him. His mind was spinning, his breath coming in short, ragged gasps as he struggled to maintain his focus.

He had to pull back, had to rein in the power before it consumed him. I've reached my limit…

With a supreme effort of will, Ezra began to draw the aura back in, pulling it out of the forest, out of the ruins, back into himself. The Ghost Pokemon resisted for a moment, their forms flickering with disappointment as the darkness receded, but they didn't fight him. They understood that the moment had passed, that the power was no longer theirs to enjoy.

That's when he was surprised yet again, as from the darkness of the forest, emerged the Dark Pokemon that had apparently been silently watching, as the Ghosts approached him first.

A Murkrow flew in first, Ezra's gaze watching it hungrily. It was followed by several Houndor and Poochyena, a Skuntank, a Zorua and then a Deino.

Now he knew for sure, that some legendary was behind all of this, behind his appearance on this world. Because him just finding a Dreepy and a Deino, the Ghost/Dragon and Dark/Dragon like this - was impossible. Like not improbable and it would just be very difficult… No this was impossible with a big fat fucking exclamation mark, one did not just run into these two Pokemon side by side in the same small area.

He'd planned to spend the next six months searching for Pokemon in-between gym battles. This, this changed everything.

He'd need to buy some land somewhere and register a Pokemon stable, so that he could begin working on all of them, because the six Pokemon travel limit wouldn't cut it. Not by a mile.

This…

He drew a hand down his face, the hand shaking slightly, this was insane!

Most of these Pokemon shouldn't even be in Johto! He knew everything wasn't like the games, hence why he could find Pokemon in Kanto that weren't supposed to be there - but not to this extent…

Someone, something, wanted the Pokemon world shaken and stirred, and he was the catalyst.

Did it change anything?

No… He thought, watching as the gathered Pokemon just sat and enjoyed his aura, all of them perfectly docile, despite the fact they shouldn't be. Their typing alone said they should not be this comfortable.

He was going to shake the world up no matter what. So what if someone was helping him along?

There would be a cost. There always was, but…

He looked at the gathering of Pokemon in front of him. The cost would surely be worth this…

He got his hammer space bag out, "Alright… I'm not even sure I have enough Pokeballs…" He eyed them all up, "Deino and Dreepy, you first." He said, voice only cracking slightly.

A minute later, he stared down at the two Pokeballs, fighting the urge to cackle. The Kanto circuit won't have any idea what's going to hit it when I'm ready!

"Alright, who's next?" He called out, a wide grin on his face.

The next morning.

Ezra woke to the soft light of dawn filtering through the trees, the ancient ruins of Alph looming in the distance. The night had been still and uneventful, the only sounds, those of the forest settling into its natural rhythm. He had spent the previous day pushing his limits, training his Pokemon in the eerie atmosphere of the ruins, hoping to draw in the dark energies that surrounded the place. Now, he was ready to continue.

Sadly his new captures were all locked due to the six Pokemon limit, but he'd fix that soon enough, he had enough money to register a stable, and certainly enough to buy a small plot of land somewhere for the purpose of slowly building them all up.

It would have to be a balancing act, as he couldn't spend too much time on whichever Pokemon wouldn't make it onto his final six for the League. Although this would massively improve his chances to argue for a gym, a decent chunk of Pokemon already available for gym duties.

After a quick meal, he packed up his camp and began his morning training. As the sun climbed higher, he corraled his Pokemon who'd been allowed free rein during the night.

Ezra worked his Pokemon hard, running them through their moves with precision and focus. Rider practiced his Iron Club attacks, the flames dancing as he swung with deadly accuracy. Nyx unleashed Shadow Balls, practicing on getting the speed and energy expenditure just right, the dark energy pulsing through the air as it targeted imaginary foes. Loki and Cheshire floated around the clearing, practicing their Hypnosis and Confuse Ray techniques, the air shimmering with their ghostly power, playfully trying to catch each other at times.

But as the morning wore on, Ezra began to feel a sense of unease, like a warning. It started as a prickling at the back of his neck, a feeling that something was off. He paused in his training, glancing around the clearing. The ruins stood silent in the distance, but the forest around him seemed to have grown quieter, as if holding its breath.

And minutes later, an explanation arrived, as out of the trees, several figures emerged.

There were six of them - three men and three women, all dressed in the familiar black uniforms of Team Rocket. The large red 'R' emblazoned on their chests made their affiliation unmistakable. They approached with casual confidence, spreading out to form a loose semicircle around Ezra and his Pokemon, seemingly not worried, which told him they'd come prepared.

They'd known what they were looking for.

Ezra's eyes narrowed, and he subtly shifted his stance, preparing for whatever was to come. He wasn't surprised to see them - his reputation had likely started to catch their attention after the Orange Islands. But their timing was inconvenient, interrupting his training.

It was a bit surprising they'd tracked him to the ruins though. The city he could understand, as no doubt the terrorists had a presence in each city, but all the way out here?

Must be a Pokemon of some kind.

One of the men stepped forward, his expression amiable but with an edge to it. "Morning, kid," He greeted, instantly making an enemy for life without knowing it, a friendly tone masking something more dangerous. "We've been watching you, and we think you've got some real potential. Ghost-types, huh? That's not something you see every day. We could use someone like you in Team Rocket."

As far as recruitment pitches went, that was particularly pathetic, Ezra thought, keeping his face neutral. Ezra didn't respond right away either, taking a moment to assess the situation. He could feel the tension in his Pokemon, especially Rider, who was already gripping his club/staff tightly.

The Rocket members were trying to come across as friendly, but there was no mistaking the intent in their eyes. They were predators, and they saw him as prey - though they were sorely mistaken in that regard.

They'd really messed up coming after him somewhere with no witnesses. He'd have to hold back in public. Here? He could let loose.

"I'm not interested," Ezra finally said, his tone cold and dismissive. He had no patience for their games, and he wasn't about to waste time pretending otherwise. They might as well begin the fight now.

The man's smile faltered slightly, but he pressed on. "Come on, don't be like that. You're clearly not like the other trainers out there. You understand what real power is - Ghost-types are all about control and domination, about bending the rules. That's what we do in Team Rocket. Together, we could accomplish a lot."

Ezra's gaze hardened as he loudly scoffed at that pile of manure of a pitch. "I don't need your help, and I certainly don't need to join a bunch of petty criminals. I have my own plans, and they don't involve taking orders from anyone." He smirked cooly, "Especially from people who are the equivalent of pimpled teens flipping burgers in said organization."

The man's demeanor shifted, the friendly facade dropping as his eyes narrowed. "Watch your mouth, kid. We're offering you an opportunity here. It'd be wise to take it."

Ezra's expression remained impassive, but his voice took on a sharper edge. "I'm not interested in your so-called 'opportunity'. And if you think you can intimidate me, you're mistaken." He grinned with a hint of bloodlust, his Pokemon all backing him up, "If anything I'm suddenly looking forward to your brief lesson in not biting off more than you can chew."

One of the women stepped forward, her face twisting into a sneer that turned a decently attractive woman into looking like a horse faced housewife. "You've got a big mouth for someone who doesn't know what they're up against. Team Rocket doesn't take no for an answer, and if you don't wise up, you're going to regret it." She threatened, laying a hand on a Pokeball.

Ezra's patience had run dry, he was ready to educate them now. "I think the ones who are going to regret this are you… For a very short time anyway. You think you can just walk up to me and make demands? How about this - You all get on all fours and kowtow to me, begging forgiveness, and I won't have to show you why you don't mess with me."

The tension in the air was palpable now, the Rocket grunts' expressions turning from annoyance to outright anger. Their hands went to their Pokeballs, their intent clear. They were done talking.

"Big mistake, kid," The leader growled as he and the others prepared to release their Pokemon. "We'll show you what happens when someone disrespects Team Rocket."

But before they could act, something dark and sinister shifted in the clearing.

Ezra's shadow, which had been lying still at his feet, suddenly sprang to life, expanding outwards like a living thing as the grunts threw down their Pokeballs. The dark tendrils surged forward, and in the blink of an eye, they snatched the Pokeballs away, swallowing them whole into the darkness.

Ezra blinked, having just intended to rip them away, not aware he could swallow them up like that, but he didn't let his confusion show on his face, instead affecting a superior smirk. Perhaps last night he shouldn't have tried to pick up rocks, and just swallowed them? He'd have to continue to study what his shadow could do.

The Rocket members all froze, their eyes widening in shock as they realized what had just happened. Their first Pokeballs were gone, absorbed into the inky blackness of Ezra's shadow. Something they'd never encountered before.

Ezra smirked, his eyes gleaming with cold amusement. "Oh, did you need those?" He asked mockingly, his voice dripping with disdain. He could feel the power thrumming through him, the darkness responding to his anger, feeding off his intent.

The shadow continued to pulse, dark and menacing, as those of Ezra's Ghost Pokemon who weren't caught, emerged from its depths. A Haunter was the first, its wide grin even more unsettling as it floated forward, hands crackling with ghostly energy. A Misdreavous followed, its form shimmering with dark power as it hovered beside Ezra, leering at the Rocket grunts. Several Gastly darted in and out of the shadows, their eyes gleaming with malevolent glee, other Pokemon being spat out of his shadow, hovering around him, forming almost a cloak of pure Ghost Pokemons.

The Rocket grunts were almost paralyzed with fear, their hands fumbling uselessly for more Pokeballs. But Ezra wasn't going to give them the chance to recover. Not that they were a threat to him anyway.

"Let's show them what happens when they mess with us," Ezra said quietly, his voice laced with menace. For Team Rocket, there would be no mercy. He smiled at their fearful faces, "Don't worry, the demonstration will be very brief."

At his command, his Pokemon surged forward, moving with terrifying speed and precision - he kept his own Pokemon back, not wanting to needlessly blood them if it wasn't necessary. The Haunter was the first to strike, darting toward the leader slamming a Dark Pulse straight into his eyes.

Humans were somewhat resistant to Pokemon techniques through evolution over the years. But not that resistant. His skull exploded from the inside out, peppering his compatriots with bone fragments and brain matter as they screamed, hands fumbling for Pokeballs frantically.

The Misdreavous targeted one of the women, its dark energy coalescing into a powerful Shadow Ball that struck her full force. The blast knocked her off her feet, sending her crashing to the ground where she lay stunned and vulnerable, she could only scream in fear as the Gastlys all surrounded her and let loose, their techniques ripping her apart.

Of the other four, two were already running while the dumber types, the other two - finally launched Pokeballs.

Ezra lazily gestured towards the two Pokemon, a Muk and a mean looking Pikachu. "Deal with the sideshow."

Silly Rockets, acting like this is a match, you should have released ALL your Pokemon, and at least make it a challenge.

His four Pokemon descended on the two Rocket Pokemon, utterly defeating them, causing them to faint within just a few moves.

Meanwhile the two runners had perished, the Ghosts rocketing them back and forth between them like ping pong balls, using low energy shadow balls to do damage but not lethal damage, to knock the two back and forth. Like cats playing with mice.

He noted both had broken necks, purely by accident he suspected, simply from rough play. Which left the last two, as all the Ghosts converged.

Both of them fell to their knees, begging. "PLEASE! WE'VE SURRENDERED!"

Ezra made a show of thinking it over, before shrugging, "I'm just a kid, what do I know about this, I'll let the Ghosts decide." Too bad the leader died first and didn't get to hear that one…

The Ghosts descended with cackles, making quick work of the last remaining Rockets.

With all of them dead, it was like a dark film was pulled away from his eyes, and he stumbled slightly as he looked at what he'd wrought.

He turned around and vomited, holding his stomach as he expelled everything he'd eaten.

"Fuck…" He muttered, weakly.

He'd gotten carried away. While he wasn't opposed to killing Team Rocket members who'd surely hold no mercy for him, he'd never done anything like that before.

And he hadn't needed to be cruel, to that extent. He could have also just used hypnosis by sneaking his armada of Ghosts behind them - and they would have never figured out what happened.

"If I'm going to murder someone, it's gotta be my choice." He swore to himself, as he wiped his mouth with his sleeve.

I can't lose control like that… I've played too much with the darkness and my shadow, I need to explore a lot more… Carefully.

He'd gather up the Pokeballs, return them to the police, in case any of the Pokemon could be rehabilitated.

Killing Team Rocket members in self defense was legal, due to their status as a terrorist organization, so he wouldn't get in trouble.

Yet…

He looked at the carnage again, slightly green.

I don't need to be like that, I can be stronger than that.

1 week later, Pewter, Kanto.

Karen grimaced as she got a call from Agatha, she briefly thought of not answering, but Agatha could teleport and would no doubt come bend her over her knee if she did.

"I don't have any updates yet." She said immediately upon answering the call, stubbornly staring at the older woman, her arms crossed. Never back down, don't make excuses, she's like a sharpedo in bloodied water.

Agatha hummed, a crooked smile on her weathered face, "Oh dear, oh dear, no updates at all you say?"

Karen felt her blood freeze, no… He can't have done something else, he has to come by here! He can't do the circuit without hitting Pewter!

"You've been sitting on your pretty little ass this entire time, while you could have been doing m-your paperwork, and you have no updates at all, Karen?" Agatha said almost cheerfully.

Karen gulped, knowing she treaded in treacherous water. Those who knew Agatha knew that when she was a cold imposing bitch, nothing was wrong - that was just her default. If she was happy or cheerful though… Hide. Hide very far away. "A-ah, I mean… He has to come by here, I-I'm setting a trap!"

"Interesting." Agatha said, holding her head up so that her crooked nose looked down on her, "Very interesting. Explain to me however, child, why you're trapping Pewter, when the brats last known location was Goldenrod city, in Johto!"

Karen's brain stuttered to a full stop. She couldn't compute. It had NOT happened again. She refused that reality. He was not on a different fucking continent, AGAIN! "What?" She managed to weakly spurt out, knowing Agatha was waiting on an answer.

"The little brat Lance spanked Pryce across the arena yesterday." Agatha said, like that wasn't a huge piece of news to just dump unceremoniously on her, "Bah, so we have a new Champion, who cares." She waved a hand dismissively, "He did have the time to ask about our quarry who's apparently made the papers twice in Johto." Agatha's expression was intense as she twisted the knife in Karen's gut, mercilessly. Karen could feel her soul leave her body as the Ghost Mistress continued.

"Once in Cherrygrove due to his unusual Marowak Ghost evolution…" Agatha's face grew bigger on the screen as she loomed over Karen even across the distances between them, "I don't have a Ghost Marowak, girl… Why don't I have the boy with a Ghost Marowak at my fingertips right now?"

Karen only managed to weakly splutter, there was too much stuff in such a short time, just too much.

"Then…" Agatha said slowly, like she was enjoying prolonging Karen's suffering, "Then, he appeared in Goldenrod, with the Pokeballs of six Rocket grunts, the brat having taken down six terrorists. Naturally, Lance noted that fact down, asking about the Kanto native, gallivanting around Johto. Why aren't you in Johto already!?"

Karen yelped, immediately beginning to move with frenetic pace, packing her stuff up, "I'll leave right away!"

Seriously, what is this kid? The Orange League, unknown evolutions, fighting six terrorists? Can I even… Can I even take him in? She thought, as she packed.

Agatha clicked her tongue, "If you don't find him soon, I'll have to find an appropriate punishment, perhaps once he's my apprentice, you can be his." She hissed out, a devious smirk on her face, before she just cut the connection.

Karen changed her mind. She definitely could take him.

In fact, she'd take him down so hard he wouldn't even be able to look at Dark Pokemon ever again due to her actions, and he'd switch to a career as a Jigglypuff juggler.

She would not, could not fail again.

Her reputation depended on it.