Nancy
*Crystal enters for whatever reason* "I can't even dance... Why am i here?" *Crystal felt awkward being here*
Juan
*Cynthia just came here not long ago, she was dressed in appropriate attire since she got notified of the event she thought it would be nice to meet young trainers and other champions* "Good evening" *She said to Crystal as she walked in.*
Geraldine
It's a miracle, Monika isn't wearing her red sweater this time. (for the first time in forever~) She was wearing a black dress with some long gloves, not that special. She kind of just leaned against the wall and waited for someone she knew to enter.
Nancy
"Oh, good evening! And hello Monika" *Crystal was in Fancy-ish clothing since Crystal hasn't gone to many formal events* "How are you doing?"
Hayley
Mark stood outside the doorway for a few minutes, kinda afraid to go in there. He begins to turn back around and leave but floatzel tugs at him and gives him an assured look along with infernape. Mark smiles and takes a breath before stepping into the room itself and slowly shuffling his way to a corner.
Geraldine
She looked up and shrugged, "I've been doing fine." Her arms were crossed, she was still kind of salty about that incident with Raihan. Leon, Akari, and Gladion weren't here either, basically the only people who make her feel comfortable, but at least Crystal was here, which made her feel a little more comfortable.
Juan
*She glanced around and looked at people as they went in. She had expectations with this and who knows? Maybe she could duke it out in a battle if the opportunity called for.* "Hmm so charming" *She commented. Anyways she saw Mark standing in a corner all alone so she walked to him and said* "Young one, come here there's no need to stay in the corner all night".
Nancy
"You seem a bit upset, whats going on?" *Crystal didn't mean to get into any of Monikas personal things... But Crystal was a bit worried* "Unless you don't want to talk about it, i'm fine with that as well!"
Hayley
He wide eyes "Oh, cynthia, uhhhh, o... K... If you say so" He begins to shuffle his way towards her, Infernape not too far behind. Floatzel holds his hand, making sure that mark knows he is there for him
Horace
*Hayama walked in, looking around. He didn't seem to want to talk to anyone at the moment— he was a bit of an introvert anyway, so he simply walked over towards the area with the least amount of people. Little did he know a certain Professor was watching him like a hawk from the other side.*
Geraldine
"Leon's super sick, and it's worrying me. He hasn't woken up in quite a long time." She hugged herself slightly and sighed. "But, I'm sure he's fine!" She tried to keep up a positive attitude. She took a strawberry and dipped it in the chocolate fountain and ate it.
Juan
*She gave him a graceful smile* "So you know me but who are you young one? You must certainly have a name and from your Pokemon I can tell you're probably from Sinnoh funny how things work out".*She mused, her demeanor remaining calm when speaking to the new person.*
Hayley
"Well, funnily enough, I'm actually the new sinnoh champion... Yeahhhhhhh, hi, I'm uhhhhh... Mark narbeth... Nice to... Meet you?" He looked really out of his comfort zone, but floatzels presence helped him a bit.
Horace
*Hayama went to get a drink, but as he did he couldn't help but look at Cynthia and a few of the others. Standing near them he felt a bit weird, but he supposed the island was full of accomplished trainers. It seemed they were talking about Champion stuff, so he just got himself a small shot and watched in mild amusement, turning to Cynthia.* "That seems... Very awkward. Then again, there are a lot of Champs here.."
Juan
"It's a pleasure Cynthia Shironanten" *She shook his hand politely* "That's great I started just like you did over twenty years ago if there's something I know about being a champion it's this, always study and make sure you have enough type coverage for any situation also it's good to keep an open mind I haven't heard about Sinnoh in years". *She was pretty happy with this she can now interact with fellow champions.*
Minnie
*Mari walked in. Finally, something she was actually good at. She was wearing one of her lolita dresses which she was very happy about that. Her og team followed her in. She managed to make a deal with Interleon and Hatterene to at least act like there friends much to Bewears happiness*
Horace
"Well, there are what? 12 Champions here? And then you've got the Elite Four, a few Gym Leaders, and the leaders of various Battling Facilities... So I guess it's not to be expected." *The Kalos Champ did a 'magic trick', pulling a Pokeball from out of nowhere and staring at it for a second before smiling.* "Yeah, you want some fresh air... Right." *Throwing it off to the side, he grimaced and braced himself before he was tackled to the floor by his energetic Pyroar... Well, not exactly his.*
Hayley
"Hehe, well, I know who you are, you were one of my inspirations to learn and grow. Balance your weaknesses and expand your strengths, you taught me that, heck I know about every pokemon in sinnoh... Your views helped me get through tough times... I'm being wierd and or creepy aren't I? Sorry, sorry, sorry"
Christopher
*Augustine had been off to the side just messing with a tablet in one hand, and sipping from a glass periodically with the other. That was, until Hayama brought a Pokeball out of the Expansion Suit, and out came a Pyroar... Lysandre's Pyroar. The man had to try hard not to accidentally break the things he was holding as he almost glared at the affection the ~~traitor~~ Pokemon was showing the ~~traitor~~ Kalos Champ.*
Juan
"Not at all, Mark there's nothing wrong with having a role model I've had mine before but I think I said too much now tell me about you what makes Mark, Mark and what can I learn from you if there's nothing left for me to teach you?"
Minnie
*Mimikyu and Leafeon looked around for any new friends. Mari followed them happily even if she didn't talk to anyone, she was atleast happy to spend some time with her og team. Interleon, Hatterene, and Bewear were mostly keeping to themselves. Bewear had a happy look that said 'Shes growing up so fast.'j
Hayley
"Well..." He was kind of shocked that she asked him a question like that. He began to think but kinda started to worry he was taking too long. But floatzel gave him a look and he took a breath "...... There are many ways to deal with conflicts... Battling can work in some situations but, I find it better to hear both sides out and try to come to an agreement, at lest at first... Of course I can still battle, and me and infernape have beat a lot of tough pokemon together... So I guess I'm good at dealing with situations without immediately fighting" He slightly looked down, afraid that hes just said something offensive or stupid
Geraldine
She looked over to Augustine and tried to keep herself from freaking out, she's always looked up to him. She would've gone over and talked to him, but she shyed up and stayed put.
George
Atlas entered the ballroom, a bit late he really didnt want to go but part of him felt socially obligated to, he was wearing a black suit instead of his usual green one, he also decided to not wear his shades, he would just be hanging out away from the talking people, this reminded him a lot of those horrible dance classes which he was forced to do as a kid by his mother.
Minnie
*Mimikyu ran up to Monika with his cute little bowtie. He walked around her with Leafeon did as well.* "What are you to doing?" *Mari ask curiously*
Juan
*She didn't think he said anything offensive or stupid, she thought it was really good in fact. She let out her Garchomp out of her ball and told her "Go make friends with the other Pokemon, you too, team" She said as she let out everyone one by one.* "Battling is a very good way to settle things but speaking is just as a powerful weapon even more so. All people have to do is speak and communicate it doesn't matter if it's battle or life". *She meant it as in the same way she could command her Pokemon without saying a word if she wanted to she just chose not to.*
Geraldine
She smiled at Mimikyu. "Awh~" She bent down and patted his head. "I'm just standing here, waiting for something interesting to happen, because drama seems to follow me everywhere I go." She said that last part with some bitterness in her voice.
Minnie
*Mimikyu **Loved** Pets.* "Well I hope you get better soin Monika. Sorry I couldn't really help with the paparazzi." *Leafeon had a little flower crown on as she rubbed her self against Monkias leg*
Horace
*Eventually, because NO ONE HELPED HIM () he was able to push the large fire tiger off of him and get up, though he was still being licked by it. He was sporting a mix of casual and formal— actually, for those in the know, he looked awfully similar to Lysandre, what with the black and red coat with white fur on the edges.* "Alright, alright... Please, stop now.." *Sighing, he got up and laid a hand on 'his' Pokemon, closing his eyes as he did so. As he did, Pyroar began to relax, the surge of excitement from being in a new place subsiding as it too closed its eyes and went onto its back legs to relax. As Hayama opened his eyes, he was greeted by—*
Christopher
"Hello, Hayama. How have you been doing so far on the island? I only arrived a few days ago, so I haven't gotten too accustomed... Ah, but enough said about me!" *Augustine had walked right in front of the Kalos Champ while he was doing his "Thing" And gave him a 'smile'— he was back in his casual blue clothes that many associated him with— but Hayama understood the real meaning behind the smile, and it wasn't good.*
Geraldine
She looked over at Sycamore and scratched her chin, there was something... Fishy about him... She wanted to intervene, but she decided to stay put for awhile. She looked back over at Mari, "Don't worry! I-It's fine!"
Hayley
He smiles "Yeah, exactly." He watches garchomp and kinda looks sorrowful for a sec before realizing what he did and shook his head "Agh, sorry, trailed off into my thoughts for a second there. Uhhh well... This is infernape, we have been together as long as I can remember." Infernape lifted a hand and gave a small wave
Minnie
"Ok good, you seemed really deserted and I don't really know how to deal with thos kinds of situations. Although, I am happy Mimikyu and Leafeon likes you." *Mari smiled seeing her pokemon so happy.*
Horace
*Hayama opened his eyes to look at Syc- Augustine. He should've been warned if someone got too close, but... Right, he wasn't actually wearing the suit at the moment. He gets chastised for constant use and the ONE TIME he needs it, its back in his room?!* "O-oh, Professor! I'm fine... Met a few people and the like... What about you?" *Of course, he was just being curt because they were in public and Augustine was in his 'act', so he had to be normal as well. Though, he knew what the man was trying to do here, and he wouldn't let him have his way, as a thought came to his mind.* "Say, where are your Pokemon? I don't see any problems with your team, I can't recall anything other than Garchomp being too big."
Juan
*She smiled at him slightly and went* "He's so lovely, this is Garchomp, she's been with me for a very long time who knows how long?". *Garchomp made a hello gesture to Mark as she continued socializing with the other Pokemon.* "It's ok to trail off into your own thoughts I mean who doesn't do it these days every now and then?"
Hayley
"Yeah, true" He waved back at garchomp and kinda sighs "You know, feels like yesterday since I became champion, still not used to it. All the fans, the responsibilities, the expectations, it's a lot... Doesn't help I'm not exactly great socially if that wasnt obvious enough" He gave an awkward chuckle and scratched the back of his head
Geraldine
Monika noticed Hayama's discomfort, she turned to Crystal and Mari, "Well... I-It was nice talking to you!" She gave a polite bow and walked over to Hayama and Sycamore. "Hello, Hayama!" She gave a friendly smile to him and turned to Sycamore, "You must be Sycamore, yes? I'm Monika!"
Juan
"No it's alright, you're new and don't know any better it really feels like it was just yesterday for me too, I can't believe that after twelve years someone managed to earn that title and take it from me but I believe it needed to happen you know? How else would passing the torch be done if there wasn't someone to beat me? That kid that dealt with that Giratina ordeal in the distortion world I wonder how they're doing who was champion before you by the way?"
Stacy
*The doors to the ballroom parted open as Giovanni stepped inside. Everything about him—his suit, his hair, his shoes—was black and shining. He wasn't usually one for festivities, but networking with strong trainers could lead to establishing important connections for future endeavors.*
Horace
*'Oh fuck, it's, uh... Leon's girlfriend? What does she want?' Hayama seemed to flinch, almost like he wasn't expecting anyone to interrupt the staredown between himself and the 'good Prof.' in fact, he was so surprised as she came up to them, that he actually flailed and accidentally brushed her shoulder as he tried to regain her balance. It was just a second of contact with a few fingers, but it was enough to make his mind flood with sudden info as he visibly cringed for a few seconds, like he was in the middle of a violent headache. Afterward, he stood up and looked- almost gaped, at her as he mumbled a bit.* "Uh, hi... Monika, yeah?"
Geraldine
She looked at Hayama, confused, but she looked towards the entrance and saw Giovanni. She instantly got pale and she almost tumbled over, she hasn't seen him in half a decade! Why was he here, was he here to try and find her and force him to become the leader of Team Rocket? She started to visibly shake a little bit.
Kim
*Augustine was going to respond but their exchange was interrupted by another. He didn't recognize her off the bat, but soon remembered she was in the bar with them. Then his eyes widened and he had to hold back from smirking as Hayama accidentally touched her, while he was still reeling from Augustine showing up at that. Though, he couldn't just say anything outright so he watched with false concern as the boy went through a few rapid stages and then awkwardly responded.* "It's nice to meet you- I'm glad so many people actually know who I am!" *And then she looked over to someone else, and he knew this night was going to be a bit more interesting.*
Horace
*Hayama seemed to almost glare at the person entering, though that was less-so because of him showing up and more because of what he'd JUST seen. Like, what the actual fuck? Even if it was fast, he understood and knew it was nothing good, as he turned to Monika.* "Sorry about that... Now then, I guess he's going to be nothing but trouble for you..." *He was a bit concerned for the person next to him as Pyroar got up and stood almost threateningly in front of them, also coincidentally in front of Sycamore though this was accidental.*
Stacy
*It didn't take long for Giovanni to notice Monika's presence. Without even realizing it, he found himself moving to approach her. What should he say? Was he feeling... Nervous?*
*No, Giovanni is the strongest trainer in the world, and he knows it! He moves forward with his head held high.* "Well, well... It has been some time, hasn't it?"
Hayley
"It was kid in an orange and white striped shirt I think? Not entirely sure, but I remember the battle itself, it was a close, that's for sure, but in the end, my passion burned the brightest and I won. And speaking of giratina, we have had a few issues on sinnoh with people claiming to be part of team galactic and causing general mischief. Looker is currently dealing with it and told me he'd update me on it and so far it's not been that serious, but, I guess as someone who was there when they first showed up I thought you might have some insight into this?"
Larry
Al would enter wearing a simple suit and tie nothing fancy. He looks around to see if he sees anyone he knows but he doesn't say he decides to go all wall flower for this one and heads to the bar.
Geraldine
She looked down and didn't respond. She hugged herself and some of her hair fell infront of her face. She just nodded, not even wanting to look at him in the eyes.
Juan
"From what I know those are just hooligans that want to cause mass hysteria for their own hedonistic games so there's nothing to worry about at all. They're just trying to band together again and bring the team to it's former 'glory' you know how it is with teams since team rocket and neo-team plasma".
Horace
*Well, shoot, things were probably going to go awkwardly from here... Besides, it was sort of wrong to... Look into things like he did and he needed to tell her, so why not now? Just like she'd 'saved' him from Augustine's antics, he'd help her out.* "Oh, you're Giovanni aren't you? It's nice to meet you really... But if it's ok, my friend and I were just going to get some drinks. Not sure how you two know eachother, but maybe you could try and talk after?" *He turned to her and gave her something of a reassuring look before literally giving the 'former' Rocket Boss the cold shoulder, and walking with her and Pyroar away from him and Augustine, towards the drinks, and the exit—. Technically, he didn't force her, but Pyroar was walking right behind and he was to her right.*
Stacy
*...*
*He supposes this was to be expected. Monika is a headstrong individual, not unlike himself.* "I don't expect you to want to talk to me, nor do I expect you to listen. But know this: you cannot deny your potential. Come see me later if you care to hear what I have to say—and come alone." *He walks off, for now.*
Geraldine
She followed Hayama, and she got chills when Giovanni said that. She stopped and turned around, facing Giovanni. She looked at him in the eyes, her purple eyes shining radiantly, but also menacingly, and gave him a cold, hard "No."
Hayley
"Yeah, that's what I thought" He sighs "Still though, knowing what galactic tried to do back then, it's kinda scary to think what they could try now. " He found some lemonade and took a sip while floatzel took a poffin out and noms it
Kim
*Augustine watched the entire exchange, and afterwards, he was greatly intrigued. Team Rocket's leader, and Hayama out of his suit... Well, he expected surprises but THAT was a surprise.*
Stacy
*Giovanni... Heard that. And he understands. In time, she will come to realize her true potential. Perhaps she will one day lead an organization to rival Team Rocket? In any case, he's glad to have gotten that out of the way. Being a father is hard work.*
*Where do they serve food around here? Gio daddy hungers.*
Juan
*While Mark did that she took a Soda pop for her to drink and some Malasadas for her Pokemon* "Yeah it's pretty mind opening what some people can be capable of doing" *She took a sip of her soda and continued* "Now take this from me as a champion there's more than being strong to that-." *She saw that Giovanni was near so to be more discreet and to not sound rude or anything she spoke in a more quiet yet still clear voice.* "Like I was saying you have to be prepared to take down evil teams since the whole region depends on you to solve everyone's problems."
Horace
*After... THAT, Hayama stopped at the drinks area and looked across to the person next to him. He was still reeling from what he saw, but he supposed he needed to tell her out of fairness... That and the fact that they were very, very similar.* "So... Are you alright, or..?"
Geraldine
She was still a little shaken up, she was... Curious on what he had to say to her, she turned to Hayama and just nodded. "Mm hm.." She looked at where Giovanni left to and was tempted to follow. She patted Hayama on the shoulder, "I'll be right back." She followed to where Giovanni went.
Hayley
He nods "Yeah, I noticed that on week 1." He takes a long sip "Ahhh... That was the Giovanni from team rocket wasn't it?"
Juan
"Yeah, he made a new division called Rainbow Rocket not long ago, the current Alola champion dealt with it if I recall correctly I used to think that people changed but don't expect them to young one".
Geraldine
She walked up to Giovanni and tapped him on the shoulder. "You're lucky I'm nice." She looked at him right in the eyes, "What do you want." She tried her best to keep her head up.
Stacy
"Ah! You came around much faster than I thought." *He smiles.* "I was hoping the two of us could... Catch up. I'm sure you've had your own stories of success since last I saw you."
Hayley
He sighs "Yeah, I always was one for giving second chances, but like any belief, theres always an exception to the rule." Takes another sip "He knows how to dress for an occasion, I'll give him that"
Geraldine
She nodded, "Yeah..'success'." She crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow, kind of giving some sass. "Bet Mason told ya about my new 'relationship'." She shivered just by saying his name.
Stacy
"...Indeed he did. And I must commend you on your ability to... Navigate your way with strong trainers." *He grits his teeth.* "Leon is a champion, and I respect his position. I do wish you had found someone with a little more brains, though..."
Geraldine
Her eye twitched, *'bitch i will rip you to shreds if you insult leon again-'* She said in her mind. She just sighed and crossed her arms and just stood there awkwardly.
Juan
*She nodded and said* "Well would you look at the time I better get going" *This was a little white lie she said since she's so 'mysterious' and all and she has to keep that image.* "Alright say goodbye guys we better train in case another tournament turns up" *The Pokemon obeyed and bid their farewells to the Infernape and stuff.* "It was a pleasure to meet you, Mark hopefully we'll meet again sometime". *She smiled at him and walked out of the party.*
Stacy
"Ah... Perhaps I have misspoken. You are my daughter, and I'm sure you see more in him than I do. Forgive me for... Not sharing the same taste in partner as you."
*Perhaps it is wise that she is the smarter of the two anyway. Having that sort of power over a champion is not something many people can say they have. He has clearly underestimated his own daughter's ability to choose a partner.*
Geraldine
She put her hand on her hip, "I may be younger than you, but I'm not afraid to kick your ass if you keep talking about Leon like that." She thought he said that outloud, she tapped her foot on the ground and glared at him.
Stacy
"I suppose I should change the subject..." *Giovanni hides his reaction as best he can.* "I didn't come here looking for you; I came here because I was invited, and I wished to take a vacation from my work back in Kanto. If you don't wish to associate with me, so be it. I'd rather relax in the peace and quiet than discuss business 24/7. But, if you wish to apply your skills and take after me, I would be happy to teach you what I know."
Geraldine
She scoffed, "All you know is how to sit in a chair and stroke a cat 24/7." Her beast ball came loose in her belt and it fell to the ground, and released Blacephalon. **"Fuck."** She struggled to pick up the beast ball and returned her. She sighed and turned back to Giovanni, hoping that he wouldn't ask to see it again.
Stacy
*Giovanni is visibly impressed.* "Amazing! I knew you had the potential in you to wield such power... I will ignore the sleight you made against my beloved Persian."
Geraldine
She rolled her eyes, "Have you ever thought about Mason?" She twirled some of her hair in her fingers, "I think he might have some potential."
Stacy
"The boy lacks discipline. He can be taught, and I intend to teach him. However, I strongly believe in giving you an equal chance. You are just as much my child as he is. I would be elated if you both worked together, but I understand that the best of the best often prefer to stand alone and unchallenged at the top. Mason will need more than what he has now to be there, but you... I can see you at the top, Monika. None would be able to contest your leadership. I already have legions of faithful men and women who would gladly serve you without hesitation. All you need to do is accept my offer." *He extends his hand out to her.*
Geraldine
She coughed into her fist, she was actually kind of considering it. *'no, stop it.'* She tried to tell herself. For some reason, the thought of having people serving her was... Very tempting... She hesitated and took his hand, "No. Promises." She told him sternly. ~~mason proceeds to cry in a corner~~
Stacy
"Well, at least you've warmed up enough to give me more than the firm 'no' you had earlier. I don't need an answer right now. Take your time. Consider my offer. I'll even allow your boyfriend special privileges and protections if you wish to tell him about all this. When you decide, or if you have any questions for me, please do not hesitate to find me." *And with that, Giovanni leaves the ballroom and heads back to his room.*
*He was never one for parties. Business always seemed to follow him wherever he went. Then again, sometimes it's his own fault. He could never turn down an opportunity.*
Horace
*Hayama watched the whole exchange from the side. He wasn't sure how to feel about it all— obviously Monika was rather uncomfortable, and for good reason too, but Giovanni hadn't seemed... Well, he wasn't good but he wasn't outright bad. It brought a pang of familiarity to his own life and... Well... Sperm donor? Man who was apparently part of his family? Sighing, he couldn't really deny the fact that at one point Lysandre had equaled dad. Though, the man lost that right when he started doing what he did, and now he was either dead or immortal, but either way he'd faced the consequences. As Giovanni left he waited for