Pokémon TCG2: Doduo Adventures - Book One: TCG Island

[Tango]

Special thanks to K_S for beta reading!

Chapter 34: Upheaval​

(185)

June 4th (Late Night)

I finally arrived home, parking my car on the left side of the garage to avoid covering the hyperloop access on the other side.

Tango was awake and alert, trotting right up to me as I exited my vehicle. Strangely, were no feathers left about in the lawn! Perhaps recovery from death stunted their growth?

I had recently spent so much time with Rick, that my house felt rather empty, so I let Tango enter. Besides, the bird had shown he was willing to save my life! But it was unclear if that was altruism or a pain-seeking measure...



"I suppose I'll just have to clean up your feathers myself from now on, huh, Tango?"

Tango tilted his heads with his usual vacant look.

Some things never changed.

After the best day I had since my childhood, it was time to put pen to paper and memorialize the events in my diary.

I glanced at my large grandfather clock.

11:45pm

Not too terribly late. Certainly enough for a spot of writing and a cup of my favorite tea...

---

(186)

I entered the oak double doors of my study on the second floor with teacup in hand. I tread upon the oversized ornate primarily-red rug covering the vast majority of the walnut plank floor. My hand slid along the top of one of the wooden chairs that flanked the coffee table in the middle of the room as I made my way to the large window on the other side. It stretched most of the way up the fifteen foot ceiling and further across than the length of both my arms extended outward.

Lingering there a moment, I gazed on the quiet street below, lit only by the occasional street lamp.

Tango followed me in and promptly trotted to the far right corner of the room where I had placed a large dog bed for him. He perched upon it in a particularly dignified way for a Doduo. Almost as if he might have an appreciation for what was easily the finest room in my house.

I stepped over to my luxury leather chair behind my full-sized mahogany desk next to Tango's bed. My large oak bookshelf lined the wall behind it. I adjusted the nob on my desk lamp to half brightness.

Once seated, I bestowed my teacup exactly in the center of my square, Scyther-themed, coaster. The teacup handle was set precisely to a forty-five degree angle facing away to my left. Heat radiated from my cup of tea as its fragrance stimulated my olfactory sense.

My study doubled as a duel room with a table lined with green felt near the far wall with two more chairs like the one I was sitting in stationed at it.

Next, I selected my writing implement from the desk drawer to my right: a feather. For such an occasion, I would use the big one! I procured an inkwell to accompany it. My feather pen and inkwell awaited my instrumentation. To me, writing was not just a hobby, it was an art.



But first, tea!

It had exactly enough time to cool for proper indulgence. I lifted the cup with grace, a single pinky extending outward and inhaled as I took the first exquisite sip.

All was as it should be. After returning the cup to its rightful station, it was time for the task of penning my most recent excursion.

A dip of the feather in the ink, and...

(187)

Suddenly the window shattered with glass exploding inward in all directions!

The cause? A figure who had rammed through my second story window! They hit the floor with a roll springing to their feet before facing me.

My jaw dropped. "GR2!?"



GR2 stood straight, exuding confidence unlike their demeanor from our prior meeting in the ally. The eyes and mouth of their mask glowed yellow. "Mister Gentleman... Good evening."

These crazy GR Island folk! Did they not have DOORS on their island?!



I rubbed my temple with my fingers. "GR2... You are new to our island, so I'll cut you some slack. We have doors on our island. We don't typically enter our homes through windows..."

GR2 was still. Must have been deep in thought, the poor fellow. I imagined how awkward it would be from their perspective.



GR2 then took up the same posture they had in our first meeting, a slight bow while holding their hands together. "Many apologies to you, esteemed Champion! My king would surely hang me for such a grave offense. Our laws dictate that I must fix your window and become your servant, but only if you defeat me in a duel."



Hanging!? A bit extreme, but at least they were willing to fix my window... But a servant? Was I about to gain... A BUTLER!? I had always wanted a butler!



Ah, but that would be horribly unfair to GR2. All they did was break a window because they didn't realize there was a door... Entering the home must have seemed so confusing... No matter how I looked at it, lifelong servitude was not something I could seriously consider regardless of how much I wanted a butler...

I closed my eyes and shook my head. "I'd love a servant, but the fact that it would be for life isn't something I can accept. It wouldn't be fair to you. How about for one week instead? I know it may seem long, but you did technically break a law by crashing through my window. Also, what would you gain if you won?"



GR2 tilted their head slightly and froze for a moment. "Such generosity! You should be careful with that, lest you leave yourself vulnerable... As for my winnings, All I ask is for you to accompany me to my island. Our king would like to meet you!"



The King? It seemed my popularity had finally spread to the other islands. I had been thinking about taking a vacation there anyway, so it was a win-win!

I nodded. "Sounds fine to me!"



GR2 bowed. "Splendid! Shall we?"

---

We opted to duel at the table. It was a welcome reprieve indeed from all but my most recent duels being on the floor...

Unfortunately, Mew had insisted on having me return the copy of my unrestricted deck, 'Mystic Fire', prior to leaving the dome the day before. It meant that I was now back to my all-common deck, 'FlashFire!'. I made a mental note to visit a card shop again soon to reconstruct my old deck at the next opportunity...



Despite my skill and experience, the duel proved intense! They used many colorless Pokemon with high HP like Chansey and Snorlax and a massive torrent of energy removal cards which crippled my ability to attack! In the end, I wasn’t able to KO a single one of their Pokemon and the duel ended in total defeat!

My eyes widened. "GR2, that was incredible! I had no idea duelists on your island were this formidable!"

(188)



GR2 meticulously gathered their cards. "Most are not. I am a special case... So, are you ready to accompany me, champion?"



I scratched the back of my head. "Well, it's a bit late. Perhaps tomorrow after I visit the card shop."



GR2 tilted their head. "Oh, you don't have to worry about cards! We have plenty! We even have a bed! I've arrived on a GR blimp. If you act now, you won't even have to pay airfare!"



I put a hand to my chin in thought. "That's very kind, but I enjoy my own bed and I'm not hurting for money at the moment. Besides, I will need to deal with this window being broken!"



GR2 went very still. Their voice low. "So you don't plan on coming with me tonight?"



I chuckled. "Patience, my dear fellow! I will likely be ready in a few days."



GR2 looked down. "Oh... I don't think I'm allowed to wait that long. I'll be in bit trouble if I wait! Why, the King might even hang me!"

A predicament, for sure, but not one of my making. I'd just have to explain it to the king myself.



I held my hands out. "Not to worry! I'll use my status as champion to negotiate on your behalf. Surely he would not hang you!"



GR2 paused. "You misunderstand..."

I tilted my head.

"This would have been easy if you just agreed. Now things will be messy..."



I furrowed my brow. "What are you talking about?"

(189)



GR2 rose from their chair and pulled a large hollow cylindrical object off of their back before pointing it in my direction. "Capture and abduction it is, then."

Before I had any time to process what was going on, Tango leapt across the room crashing right on top of the duel table between GR2 and I!

Could it be the bird was going to protect me?



My foe staggered back, holding the cylinder up as a shield by pure instinct as they trembled.

Tango then stood there... Blinking, staring vacantly. Exhibiting no aggression!



Seizing the opportunity, my assailant whipped the cylinder around at Tango followed by the sound of some object being launched from it! The projectile impacted Tango and twisted about him.

A net!

Tango made a pitiful excuse for a screech before he flopped over kicking about haphazardly much like when he had been stuck in my car...

Suddenly, the metal tips of the net hummed and glowed! They launched towards the window by some unseen force, pulling the rest of the net and Tango along with them! Once out the window, the net flew directly up into the sky! As the fat bird ascended, his movement and expression was that of pure joy...



GR2 tossed the first net-launcher aside as they grabbed the second one from their back! "Got to love these anti-gravity remote controlled capture nets..."



In a panic, I turned to run but barely made it a few steps before I found myself also bound and suffering the same fate as the bird!

The speed at which it hurled me induced nausea... It was like 'The Diglett' all over again!



Within seconds I was aboard the blimp and promptly gagged as I fell asleep by means I could not recall.

---

Spoiler: Author's Note: Team GR

In the sequel to the original game, Team GR (aka Great Rocket) invades TCG Island and steals almost all their Pokemon cards using a blimp that sucks the cards up into a weird light which I interpreted as anti-gravity technology. The invading GR members wore masks representing different energy types. The first part of the game involves the player traveling to the different clubs to free them from Team GR by winning duels against them which have them pieces of a GR coin to assemble. Once complete, it allows them to use the newly added airport on TCG Island to travel to GR Island. The player would then need to defeat all of the members of Team GR at each fortress in order to proceed to GR castle where the final duels of the story of the game take place. Team GR has several duelists that require you to use specific cards in your deck or to avoid using certain cards which forces the player to craft multiple decks to proceed through the story.

 

[Tango]

Special thanks to K_S for beta reading!

Chapter 35: Gravity
​

(190)

June 5th

I felt a gentle nudge and opened my eyes. I was laying on a bed and could feel handcuffs holding both of my arms in place. The pillow was softer than expected.



"Hey, wake up, Mister Gentleman!"

I felt so groggy... Those villains were the cause... Ignoring the GR operative who nudged me, I glanced about the room, hoping for some way out.

The room was a large steel box. No windows. Just my bed, another bed on the far wall, a metal table in the middle of the room, and two rusty chairs by the table. The far wall also had a door. Clearly, this was a prison cell.

With no useful information and no way of moving, I was completely at the mercy of my kidnappers...



Despite these terrors I could barely keep my eyes open. Blasted drugs... "What's going on? Where am I?"



The figure held their fists balled at the middle of their chest. "Oh... You must have so many questions! I'm GR4. I'm here to help you!"



The nerve. My anger helped to rouse me as I scoffed. "You guys kidnapped me. I don't believe a word you're saying..."



GR4 Looked down and away as they hugged themself. "I understand... I'm sorry this happened. I think just about anyone would feel that way after what you went through..."



I then felt awake enough to feel angry. "If you are so sorry, how about letting me and my Doduo go? Speaking of which, where is he? Where is Tango!"



GR4 looked down. "Tango is sleeping in a cage in a different room. I feel horrible that we got sent on a mission like this, but I am here for something important. It's the reason I became a GR."



I was unable to put my hand to my chin, due to the handcuffs, so I raised my eyebrow. "What are you talking about? Are you mocking me?"



GR4 put both their hands up while shaking their head. "No! I promise I'm not! What can I do to convince you?"



I set my jaw. "For starters, how about you take off that mask?"



GR4 went still for a moment. "While on missions, all GR operatives are anonymous. It's the reason we don't use surveillance cameras. That way we can't be held accountable for what happens and it helps us make choices more objectively. We don't even know who the others with us are... If I show you, will you promise not to tell the others?"



I crossed my arms. "You have my word as a gentleman."

(191)

GR4 nodded, turned around, and removed their mask. They pulled down their hood revealing a head of pretty, medium-length blond hair before turning back around.



"There. Happy now?"



My jaw dropped. "MEW!?"

Her eyes widened as she scrambled to pull her hood back up and don her mask again.



She stamped her foot. "What is wrong with you!? Are you trying to get me seen!? If another GR heard that noise and walked through the door, my identity would be completely exposed!"



I blinked. "What? Why would that matter, you could just erase their memories."



She looked at me with a slight tilt of the head. "...What have I gotten myself into? I can't believe we kidnapped someone suffering from mental delusions!"



I stared blankly at her. "Mental delusions? What are you talking about, Mew?"

She then stared at me as I stared at her.



After a solid awkward minute, she turned around and started walking away. "Yeah... I think I'm just going to go get a snack..."



I started feeling panic. "Wait what!? You're just going to leave me here!?"



She stopped, turned around, and hung her head. "You're right... I shouldn't do that. Here you are kidnapped, terrified, and not even of sound mind to begin with... Just trust me that what you are saying is crazy, ok?"



I blinked. "Wait... so you're not Mew?"



She put a hand her her face as she looked down shaking it. "Do I honestly look like Mew to you? I thought you were the TCG Island Champion! How does someone so deranged even get that title?"



I balled my fists. "Hey! I am NOT crazy!"



GR4 touched her two index fingertips together. "Uh... you do know that's the first thing a crazy person would say, right?"



I blinked. "Well... It's the truth! But if you're not Mew... Who are you?"



GR4 went still a moment. "...Victoria."

(192)



My eyes widened. "Oh... Oh my... No wonder you think I'm insane!"

Victoria tilted her head.



I nodded. "The truth is, I've met the legendary Pokemon, Mew. And recently too! They could transform themself into humans! The form they used most was yours."



Victoria appeared to be looking towards the floor. "Wow... You are either totally out of your mind, or you are telling the truth! I don't think you would be Champion if you were so far gone. I believe you."



I smiled as I felt a bit embarrassed. "Great! So now that we have established that I am not completely insane, and you are willing to help, perhaps you might take these handcuffs off?"



Victoria brought both hands to her mask. "Oh my goodness! You're right!" She then bowed stiffly. "Hold on, I'll get you out of those right away!"

---

It felt better with my arms were free even though my wrists were sore...



Victoria held her fists near her chest as she swayed back and forth from one leg to the other. "I'm so sorry I took so long! Do you forgive me?"

Despite the situation, I felt I could trust her. Besides, it wasn't like I had any better ideas...



I nodded. "I believe you."

If it turned out she was tricking me, I'd just live with it.



Victoria did a little hop. "Oh! Thank you so much! I'm glad I let you use my pillow."



My eyes widened. "You let me use your pillow?"



Victoria held her face in her hands as she nodded. "Yep! The prisoner pillows here are so flat and they have these annoying Doduo feathers in them that constantly poke you while you sleep... You had been through so much that I wanted to help!"

Well, I certainly wasn't expecting any feelings of endearment in such a place!



My gaze softened. "I appreciate that, but can you really afford to chat right now? Aren't you worried about the other GRs catching me awake and unrestrained?



Victoria shook her head. "GR2 will be too busy with their morning meditation in the command room with autopilot engaged. GR1 and GR3 are still sleeping, but when they wake up, I'm sure they will chat in the break room until breakfast like usual. I'm on prisoner watch, so unless we make too much noise, we shouldn't be interrupted. Besides, I have it on good authority from a powerful psychic that we will have enough time and not get caught if we are quiet."



I nodded as I brought a hand to my chin. "In that case, how long have I been out? Where are we and what is going on?"



Victoria held up a finger. "You've been asleep for about five hours. You're on the GR Blimp, the Baleful Beedrill. We are currently en route to GR Island and are a few hours away."



I crossed my arms. "I see, but why are you so willing to help me?"



Victoria went still with her fists balled at her sides. "It's true that I'm here to help, but I need your help with something in return. Doing so will give you a chance to escape. But Before I get into that, I have a separate favor to ask."

She already removed my handcuffs, revealed her face, and offered me a potential way to escape. Not to mention the pillow. I could at least hear her out.



I tilted my head. "Oh? And what might that be?"

(193)



Victoria sat on the edge of the bed with her hands on her knees. "I have a special psychic power... It lets me know the feelings of anyone I focus on. I can easily tell when people lie. Everything about you is so pure, more than anyone I've ever met! I live by myself as an orphan and I miss my dad... Mister Gentleman, would you... Be willing to hug me?" She looked down and fidgeted with her hands.



I put a hand to my chin. "I'm kidnapped and stranded. I should say that I don't have time for such nonsense... But I don't think I could ignore such a request, even in a situation like this. And I know all too well what it's like to be alone. If it really means that much to you, I'll do it."



Victoria grabbed my hand in both of hers. "Oh, thank you, Mister Gentleman! Thank you so much!" She lightly tackled me in a hug.

I reciprocated as I considered just how lonely Victoria must have really been. Poor girl without parents having to raise herself on such a backwards island...



Victoria spoke with a muffled voice with her face buried in my chest and arms. "Mister Gentleman... could you run your hands through my hair and tell me I'm a good girl?"



I started feeling on edge. "Victoria... Don't you think that's a BIT much?"



I could feel Victoria clutch my shirt harder. "Oh no! I've made you feel uncomfortable! I'm sorry! Please don't be upset!"



I sighed. "This emotion reading of yours must make it difficult to find people for you to be close to... I suppose it works both ways though. You can tell my negative feeling was temporary and is now gone, right?"

Victoria nodded as she snuggled my chest.



I nodded. "Very well. It seems this really means a lot to you. I'm not be your father, but I'll try to give you some of the affection you have missed."

Victoria removed her mask and hood.

I then gently ran my hands through her hair and spoke in a low and soft voice. "There there... You're a good girl, Victoria."

She then started wailing right into my chest!



I knew it! I was no good at being a father! How could I be with zero parenting experience? I must have rui-

Victoria sobbed as she spoke. "N-NO! Why are you f-feeling that way! You've d-done great!"



I blinked. "But you're crying! You're saying I didn't ruin it?"

Victoria shook her head as she gripped me a little tighter. "I'm feeling so many things right now... My own father wasn't as gentle with his hands as you are with yours..."



"O-oh... do I need to be a little less gentle?"

Victoria relaxed her grip some. "No... Your feelings are sweet like my dad was, but I'm not looking for a copy of him. Being yourself is preferred. I'm just happy and sad. Your hands feel nicer than his were... I feel guilty about it..."

I then felt a deep empathy for her as I resumed gently running my hands through her hair. "Well... I hope this helps you. I don't enjoy seeing others in pain, feelings and otherwise."

I could hear Victoria sobbing a bit again. "N-no one but my dad has ever felt the way you did about me just now. Thank you so much. SO MUCH!" She buried her face in to my chest deeper as she cried some more.

---

We stayed like that for another ten minutes before Victoria broke it off. She pulled her hood back up and dawned her mask once again.

(194)



She stood and stiffly bowed. "Thank you! A great many people tend to have dark desires or intent towards me! But you? Only care and warmth... I'll do anything for you!"

I was not at all used to this kind of praise... I'd just considered myself as 'ok', no one really that special...



I looked down and away. "That's got to be one of the nicest things anyone has ever said to me... You are most welcome, Victoria."



Victoria smoothed out her suit and sat back down on the bed. "As promised, I'll answer any questions and do all I can for you!"



I nodded. "Right. I need to know what's going on, but I don't trust anything GR2 told me. Why was I kidnapped?"



Victoria crossed her arms. "I'm not sure of everything, but I'll tell you what I do know. Our king, the champion of GR Island, heard of your prowess at the Pokemon TCG. He is obsessed with finding strong opponents. Our island already has stronger duelists than TCG Island, so no one expected someone like you to come from there."



I sighed. "Yes, I can't say I blame them for having that view... our citizens are somewhat lacking in dueling skills... So I assume he wants me to play the TCG, but how does he plan to get me to cooperate?"



Victoria lowered her head in shame. "By barring you from leaving the island or eating until you win duels against all fortress members and leaders. Fortresses are like the clubs from your island."



I put my hands on my head. "No food!?"



Victoria held her fists to her chest. "They are going to take your wallet too, but I'll use my access to our pantry to get food and drink for you! You won't be able to take it with you since they will search you before the drop-off point, though... I wish I could do more than that... No one as nice as you deserves this."



I could feel myself blushing. "Aw... thanks, Victoria. I assume the king will want to meet me if I can make it to him. Where would that be?"



Victoria sat up alert. "There are three locations different from the regular fortresses. GR Castle is where our king and his executives await and serves as the final destination. There is also the Colorless Altar, which is run by a council of three priests. Finally, there is the Psychic Stronghold which I am a member of. Our leader, Claire, can see the future with more clarity than most psychics."



My eyes widened as I snapped my fingers. "That's it! That's what her name was! Claire was the psychic leader on TCG Island many years ago... Murray's mentor! So, I take it Claire is the one who ordered you here for your mission?"



Victoria nodded. "Correct. She knows the identity of all GRs. Collectively, they are a coordinated strike force for the king, used primarily for espionage. My secret mission from Claire is to gather intelligence on GR2. I need to take photo copies of their 'Mission Report'. It follows a completely separate agenda than our kidnapping run. According to Claire, GR2 keeps it in their pocket but is normally too observant to steal or return items from without tipping them off..."



I crossed my arms. "So let me guess... you need a distraction so you can pickpocket GR2, take photos, and then return the report to their pocket."



Victoria held her arms out. "Wow! You must have some amazing deductions skills! That's right. I'll need you to distract GR2. When they are distracted, I can use my second psychic ability to dull others awareness of me which allows me to be sneaky! I almost never use it because I hate being mean to people..."



I raised an eyebrow. "Sounds like a lot of trouble for some information. Why don't we just skip that part?"



Victoria gripped her choker with both hands. "Oh no! Please don't do that! I don't want to be fired from my job at the Psychic Stronghold! If I do, I don't know how I'll afford to live!"

Victoria had me there... I couldn't stomach putting such a sweet girl like her on the streets. Getting the report would make this more difficult, but I had to admit she was growing on me...



Victoria dashed in for another hug. "Oh, thank you!"



I held her as I looked away blushing. "You really shouldn't be reading my emotions so much..."



Victoria let go and hung her head. "I-I'm sorry! I'm so accustomed to using it all the time! I keep my power a secret so I'm not used to the idea it might offend people..."



I sighed. "Oh... fine. Don't worry about me. Read me at your leisure. It's not like I'm trying to hide things from you anyway... But why does Claire care so much about the report?"



Victoria shook her head. "I'm not sure, but I felt she was very worried about it, and it's rare for her to worry about anything!"



I crossed my arms. "Alright. What's the plan?"

(195)



Victoria confidently crossed her arms. "We will have a series of duels! First you will duel me to get me 'on your side'. If you lose, you can duel me over again, I don't mind. Once that is done, I'm going to sneak some food out of the pantry for you to eat."



My stomach gurgled. "Much appreciated..."



Victoria giggled. "After that, we will proceed into the other rooms for us to duel GR3 and GR1. We can challenge them with the same kind of challenge as me. Hopefully we will both win and get them on our side! If one of us loses, the other can step in to try to win instead."



My eyes widened. "Impressive! So, after that, we will all go in and try to win against GR2?"



Victoria nodded. "Yes, but Claire told me we will almost certainly lose. If that happens, the mission will resume. You will be deposited at the drop-off point with your Doduo, no food, no wallet, and only your common card deck. You will have your phone, but cross-island communication and internet will be disabled during your 'challenge'."



I crossed my arms. "Well, even if I don't win, I won't be going down without a fight! But my wallet... please no... I don't want to have to replace all the things in it! That would be torture!"



Victoria stood up straight. "About your wallet, I can be the one who holds onto it. That way, I can return it to you once you reach the Psychic Stronghold! I'll have to hold the money in it until you complete the challenge, though. But yes, try to win. It should help distract GR2."



I nodded. "Sounds like we have a plan, then."

 

[Tango]

Special thanks to K_S for beta reading!

Chapter 36: Mutiny​

(196)

June 5th

Victoria and I were ready for our duel. The metal chair was better than the floor, at least. The floor in this place would make for painful play indeed. Probably why they included a table...

Things started off a little risky, with only two Voltorb for me. Victoria lead with Jynx with 70 HP. It would be a struggle to cut through. She had another on the bench too. I had to play careful with Voltorb only having 30 HP. I went first, attached energy, and failed to paralyze it.

Victoria attached energy, and attacked for 10 damage. One more energy on her Jynx and my Voltorb would go down.

I used Gust of Wind to bring out her other Jynx. I then attached energy to my other Voltorb to keep my options open and I failed to paralyze once again with my attack. Bill's Teleporter failed twice in a row between this turn and the last...

On her next turn, Victoria attached energy to her current Jynx and attacked again for 10.

Finally I got a teleporter to work. I played Porygon, attached energy, swapped for it, and converted weakness to lightning.

She then attached an energy to a Polywag and attacked Porygon.



Hah! It seemed opponents on GR Island had better decks, but fell victim to the same odd tactics that worked so well on my own island!

I then swapped to Voltorb, attached another energy and KOed her Jynx, prompting to bring another out.

My next turn saw a Gambler work properly. At that point, I had all the tools I needed. Victoria and I traded blows KOing each others Pokemon until I took down her last one!



Victoria held up peace signs with both hands as she laughed. "Ohhh yeah, I lost! Nice job, Mister Gentleman!"



I'd never seen someone so happy to lose a game. Adorable. I viewed her like I might a daughter.



She then hugged my side snuggling my arm. "Aww! You always have such sweet feelings towards me! I'm going to get you some food now! Once you eat, we can get on with our mission~!"

---

Victoria soon returned with a several large chocolate-covered pretzels and a huge glass of chocolate milk! I wasted no time scarfing them down. According to her, GR Island specialized in pretzels as their national snack! They were certainly the best I'd ever had...

She helped me sneak to the GR rest room. The left side of the call contained a window than ran along the entire outside edge above a metal wall. From the blimps present height, the clouds spread out below like a gigantic white fluffy blanket. As the sun crested the horizon, colors stained the once white clouds below.

Victoria and I stood for a moment, taking in the sight.



She placed a hand on the glass. "So pretty. This is one of the few things I enjoy about being a GR. I'm glad to have someone else to experience it with. The others never showed any interest."



I continued to gaze out. "Who knows, maybe you and I will go flying again someday. I have a drone big enough to seat two. You would be welcome to join me."



Victoria leaned against my arm. "That would be nice. I know you will make it off our island. I believe it in my heart. Come see me again after?"



I closed my eyes and nodded. "Sure. I'd like the chance to visit on leisure anyway."

(197)



She turned to look presumably at my face and crossed her arms. "Alright, from here on out, you and I aren't close. The story is the drug wore off and you challenged me to a duel. I accepted, hoping a win would make me famous since you would have to tell all opponents that I beat you. If you won, I would have to help you take control of the blimp to fly back home. If we win against GR2, that's what we will do."



I nodded. "Do you know what decks GR1 and GR3 use?"



Victoria crossed her arms. "I know some, but not all. GR1 uses a water and lightning deck. GR3 uses a fire and grass deck. GR1 has a typing advantage against both of us, but most of their water types are weak to grass. I think you would fair better against GR3, so I'll try to beat GR1."



I smiled. "Very well. Hopefully there will be no need for me to intervene with GR1, but I'm feeling pretty good about my chances."



Victoria held her fists to her chest as she swayed back and forth. "Oh! Mister Gentleman... You are so cool! I think this will be fun~!"



I stretched my neck, arms, and legs. "Too bad this wasn't a leisure trip. Having an ally was a novel experience for me! So, where are GR1 and GR3 located? Also, where is the break room Tango is at?"



Victoria pointed. "The room directly ahead is the kitchen. Beyond that is the break room that doubles as the barracks. GR1, GR3, and Tango are all in there. Has duel tables in it too. Tango is drugged and caged, but if we take control of the blimp, we can release him. The command room where GR2 waits is beyond the break room."



She balled two fists holding them at the sides of her chest. "You ready, partner?"



I smiled. "Let's go get em!"

Victoria and I made our way through the kitchen and through a pair of double doors on the other side into the break room.

(198)

This room was similar to the one I woke up in, but with more amenities and was larger. Another window stretched out along the length of the room on the left side. The middle had a larger table for four and bunk beds lined the right wall. The door to the command room was on the far side. Tango was sleeping and caged in the corner.





GR1 took immediate notice sitting across from GR3. "HEY! Just what is going ON here, GR4!?"

GR3 turned around to see us.

I decided to wait patently while they hashed it out.



Victoria put a hand at the back of her head. "Well... you see... I misplaced the drug to keep him knocked out and he woke up sooner than anticipated..."



GR1 crossed their arms. "So!? How does that explain him being here!?"



Victoria held her hands near each other as she rapidly tapped her fingers together. "Yes, well... He challenged me to a duel and I was curious! If I won he would tell everyone he dueled how he lost to me..."



GR1 held a hand to their face. "Great! So you lost and now it's OUR problem! Why do you always have to be so dumb, GR4!?"



GR3 chimed in. "Yeah! It's too early in the morning to be dealing with this malarkey! I haven't even had my coffee yet... You're getting toilet duty for the entire next mission, GR4!"



Victoria shrugged, laughing nervously as she held her hands out. "Oops! Well, at least we get to play some card games now..."

Both GR1 and GR3 held a hand to their faces as they shook their heads.



I pointed to GR3. It was easy to tell which one they were due to the big '3' on their choker. "You there! I challenge you to a duel! If you win, I'll go back quietly. If I win, you will accompany me and help me take control of this blimp!"



Victoria pointed to GR1. "I guess it's you and me then, GR1. If Mister Gentleman's side wins more than yours we are all going to have to help him. Sorry..."



GR1 shook their head. "This sucks."



GR3 sighed. "Great, I get stuck with the strong one..."

---

(199)

Against GR3 I started with Porygon and Voltorb.

GR3 started with Moltres and attached energy.

Early on, 'Gambler' worked, letting me set up two more Voltorb. Porygon could do nothing to Moltres, so I spent three turns using Thundershock then Group Spark attack twice to bring it down. Exeggcute and Charmander remained. I kept GR3 locked down with energy removal as I swept through their entire team with Voltorb, claiming the win.



GR3 slammed a fist on the table. "Fiddlesticks! It's all you now, GR1..."



GR1 stared at Victoria. "This is all your fault, GR4... Making me have to beat EVERYONE! This mission was supposed to be easy! But NOOO, you just HAD to duel him..."

---

GR1 threw their arms up in the air. "YES! How'd you like THAT!?"



Victoria was still. "Yeah... that type advantage..."



GR3 sighed. "Good thing you beat me too, GR1. Having to swap sides when losing is annoying. Now just beat Mister Gentleman and we can all pretend this giant blunder never happened... But GR4 is still going on toilet duty."



I smiled with no sign of discomfort. "You don't scare me, GR1. Your deck doesn't stand a chance."



GR1 crossed their arms. "Ugh... You're just as smug as GR2. I HATE dueling GR2... I might not be that strong, but I'll be good enough to take you down!"

---

(200)

My opening hand had only one Voltorb. Risky... But my opening hand... It was complete and total garbage! Only fire energy and no other basic Pokemon... My only hope was to get lucky with 'Gambler'!

I won the opening flip to go first and clenched my teeth as I flipped another for 'Gambler'.

I breathed a sigh of relief. Heads. Today would be the day they would remember they almost beat Mister Gentleman! With a new hand, I now had plenty of options.

My opponent had a Pikachu and a Magnemite, but with Magnemite having 40 HP, it was best to get my first attack off on it, so I played Gust of Wind to drag it out.

I attached energy to Voltorb and attacked.



GR1 scratched their head. "Wait... you played NO cards and played a gambler as your FIRST CARD!?"



I smiled. "Yes, my opening hand could have beaten you, but I wanted to do more than simply win. Now things will be fun."

Little did GR1 know that I was only a hair away from losing!



GR1 shook their head. "It's GR2 all over again..."

They attacked for 10 after attaching energy.

My turn, I attached another energy and finished it off for 30 damage with Group Spark.

They then brought out another Magnemite, attached Water Energy and passed.

Next, I played another Voltorb and attacked for 40 damage KOing their Magnemite.

GR1 then brought out Polywag, attached energy, and paralyzed Voltorb with bubble, doing another 10 damage in the process. 10 HP remaining.

I played 'Switch' to break out of the paralysis and swap to my other Voltorb. I attached energy and paralyzed, doing 10 damage in the process.

They then evolved it to Polywhirl to break out of paralysis, but didn't have enough energy to attack and passed.

I attached another energy and dealt 40 damage with Group Spark leaving it at 20 HP.

GR1 attached energy and used Twiddle attack to put Voltorb to sleep.

As it passed to my turn, it did not recover from it. I had no switch, so I attached energy to Ponyta on my bench, evolved it to Dark Rapidash, and passed.

Voltorb woke up. GR1 used Super Potion to heal, but now had not enough energy to attack. They played a Professor Oak and benched another mon before passing.

GR1 was putting up a decent fight! I used Group Spark for 40 damage again.

I then brought Dark Rapidash in to finish off Polywhirl with Flame Pillar attack and opted to discard an energy to put Seel in KO range of Voltorb from their bench.

GR1 then brought out Seel, attached another energy and plowed into Dark Rapidash for 20 damage boosted to 40 due to weakness AND paralyzed it in the process!

I used Energy Removal to take an energy off their Pikachu and passed my turn, leaving Dark Rapidash to it's fate.

Next I brought out Voltorb and finished off Seel.

GR1 brought out their own Voltorb and used Speed Ball attack for 20 damage leaving my Voltorb at 10 HP. Both Voltorbs in rough shape!

I played a Porygon, attached energy to it, and used my Voltorb to KO their Voltorb!

GR1 then brought out Pikachu which they had already attached another energy for and went invulnerable for a round with Agility, finishing off my first Voltorb in the process!

I brought Porygon out to tank for a round and GR1 failed the coin-flip to go invulnerable with Agility again!

Since they were down to their last mon, I swapped to Voltorb and Group Sparked for 30 damage to take his Pikachu down in one shot, claiming the last prize for victory!

(201)



I smiled. "Nice try."



GR1 slammed both fists on the table. "I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY, GR4! LOOK AT THIS MESS! Now I'm going to have to hear yet ANOTHER lecture from GR2... I hate my life..."



GR3 chuckled and nudged GR1. "Hey, but what if we manage to win? Don't you want to wipe that smug look off GR2s mask?"



GR1 went still. "You're RIGHT! I DO want to see GR2 lose! I don't even care if we fail the mission. I would pay TOP dollar to see something like that! And this guy here? He just might pull it off! GR4... If this works, I'll take the toilet duty from you."



Victoria giggled. "Yeah! Let's all try our best to beat that smug boss of ours!"



I nodded. "Very well, my minions! Let's go see if we can teach GR2 a lesson!"

All the GRs raised their fists at the same time and collectively spoke. "Yeah!!"

 

[Tango]

Special thanks to K_S for beta reading!

Chapter 37: Mission Impossible​

(202)

June 5th

The room beyond had double doors. I entered the room with my minions in tow.

As for the room itself, the far wall was glass that stretched from floor to ceiling. Metal bars separated different sections of the glass.

The floors in here felt solid a thick red carpet stretched throughout. The ceiling was long wooden planks and looked about twelve feet high. A crystal chandelier hung above a large duel table. The table was lined with blue felt and was ringed by tall-back leather seats.

Clearly, GR Island did know how to design a proper room after all! And the fact that they had doors was also a good sign...

Along the window at the back were a few different stations with swivel chairs. The middle had several screens around it. The captains chair, I assumed.

The chair turned to reveal GR2. They had one leg on top of the other and rested their right arm on the armrest. Their chin sat on their closed fist hand.

(203)



GR2 chuckled in the creepy distorted way all GRs sounded. "Oh my! It would seem the captive escaped and has gathered an entourage!"



I grinned. "You got the drop on me last game since I didn't know what to expect, but now I'm ready! Think you can beat all of us with no losses?"



GR2 stood in the confident pose I saw back at my house. "The real question is why you thought YOU would stand a chance with such tiny numbers!"



I smiled. "Your confidence will be your undoing."



GR2 laughed. "Your faith in your 'friends' will be yours. They won't even hold me back for long... But tell me, challenger, what are your terms?"



I crossed my arms. "If a single one of us beats you, you will be under my command. You will turn this blimp around and take me home. You will never bother me again. If you win, you may proceed with your original plan."



GR2 giggled. It was way creepier than anything I'd heard from them thus far. "The audacity of this is just too amusing. The rest of you will suffer no penalties. I can't imagine anything more fun than what this is about to be..."



Victoria stepped forward. "I'll be the first to challenge GR2!"

I motioned for her to go forward. Once Victoria lost, she would be less noticeable and could use her power to get the mission report from GR2...

---

(204)

Victoria didn't last long against GR2. I think her plan was to get them overconfident. GR2 had a Chansey on turn two with two Double Colorless Energy attached. They plowed right through the Jynx that Victoria had set up and she lost due to no benched mon.



GR2 rubbed their hands together. "Poor GR4! Easily the weakest among us! But we can't all be as strong as me... Someone has to take care of the chores and cooking around here!" GR2 laughed.



Victoria lowered her head and stepped away quietly.

I couldn't tell if she was acting or if she really felt bad. With attention way from her, I could already see her inching to the far end of the room...



But for GR2 to treat her that way... It angered me.



GR2 turned to GR3. "It's your turn next. I'm going from weakest to strongest."



GR3 hung their head. "Being forced to duel you isn't much fun, GR2... But let's see how it goes. Maybe there is still a thing or two I can teach you!"



GR2 placed both hands on the duel table and leaned forward. "That's the spirit! Give me everything you have. But it won't be nearly enough..."

Victoria was nearly at GR2's back.

---

GR3 lasted an almost respectable seven turns, but was also ripped to shreds by Chansey and then Snorlax.



GR3 got up holding their back as they shuffled away. "Ah... I got too excited... this darn back..."



GR2 leaned back in their chair. "Don't worry, GR3, no one blames you for being crippled or even for your poor skill at the TCG. Having an electrician who doubles as an IT specialist is always helpful."

GR3 left the room.

Victoria now had the report, taking pictures carefully with her camera.



GR1 stepped forward and took their seat. "Well, boss, I don't have much choice in dueling you. But I know you like a challenge, so I'll try my best!"

Clearly, GR1 sang a different tune when they were around GR2... Spineless.



GR2 nodded. "I'd be insulted by anything less."

---

GR3 was defeated, but managed to KO two mon in the process. The whole thing took ten turns.

GR2 clapped. "Bravo, GR1! This is why I let you take care of weakling duelists for me!"



GR1 bowed. "You are too kind, sir! Magnificent as always!"

So much for their determination to get back at GR2...

GR1 got up and stood to the side, eager to watch the game I was about to play.

Victoria was done, but still needed to return it. I think she was waiting for me to provide the biggest distraction. I wasn't about to let her down! I didn't know if I would win, but surely I could at least give her the opening needed!



I brandished my deck and pointed it at GR2. "You've done nothing special. I did the same thing! Now it's time for the REAL duel!"



GR2 leaned back moving their fingers rhythmically over the ends of the armrests. "Perhaps you would be a force to be reckoned with if you had your unrestricted deck... That's precisely why I barred you from it. There's nothing to save you here, Champion! It's back to the cell with you!"



My eyes narrowed. "You'll have to beat me again, first."

---

(205)

The duel to earn my freedom commenced!

All I had to start with was a Porygon. GR2 went first attaching energy to Kangaskhan and drawing a card with fetch. They already had four mon on their bench. All of them over 80 HP.

Bill's Teleporter failed! NO!!



I used Pokemon Trader to get a Voltorb and played it. I then attached Fire Energy to Porygon and converted weakness to lightning.

GR2 played their own Bill's Teleporter and won the flip followed by an energy removal! This was already looking bad!

I played my own energy removal on his Lickitung and attached energy to Voltorb.

Gambler failed too. At that rate I reasoned I might not last! My opponent kept drawing cards while all my attempts to do so failed!



I then swapped for Voltorb and attacked with Thundershock. Maybe I could keep them from drawing cards... I failed to paralyze... all coin flips had forsaken me thus far!

What about Victoria? I could see she was carefully working on returning the Mission Report, but she had to move very slowly to prevent attention. She needed more time!



Another energy removal and they played another energy to their Lickitung... Another fetch... GR2s card draw was flying past mine!

Out of energy... out of cards... I had no choice but to pass.

And he won the flip on yet ANOTHER Bill's Teleporter! Forget GR2... My true foe was whatever or whoever was responsible for all these coin-flips!

FINALLY! A Bill! I played it hoping for some semblance of ability to DO something this game! ...Just a Porygon and a Doduo... I had a sinking feeling there would be no way to win this game... I could feel it.

I was going to GR Island whether I wanted it or not... But I'd struggle to the end! For Victoria!



I retreated for Doduo just as GR2 finished loading Kangaskhan up for a comet punch... four coin-flips with each heads doing 20 damage! With how things were going, it was going to be 80 damage every time! And yet, GR2 got a taste of the bitter medicine I had been drinking ALL GAME! Four tails. Too bad it wasn't nearly enough to fix things!

Still no energy... All I could do was watch in horror as GR2 continued to build their field and attack me every turn!



GR2 held their hands out and wiggled their fingers. "How delightful! I get to watch you squirm as your house burns down around you! I shall savor it."

(206)

The second comet punch dealt 60 damage, instantly KOing my Doduo. I wasn't sure where Tango was on this blimp, but it's too bad, he probably would have loved a hit like that...

I heard a distant thud...

Just how far WAS the range on Tango for taking opponent card attacks?!

Finally an energy... I played another Doduo, attached the energy and attacked hoping to do SOMETHING... 10 damage.

Victoria had slipped most of the report back, but still needed more time. It's a good thing GR2 liked to play with their food...

And of course, they used another Energy Removal on me. If only my card draw hadn't failed so miserably... I'd have had a fighting chance!

Another comet punch for 60. Bye-bye Doduo...

I could make out some faint gleeful squawking from the other room. The sheer absurdity of it made me smile as I struggled to keep myself from laughing.

My amusement quickly faded as my attention returned to the game. I drew a Lightning Energy... Maybe my foe would run out of Energy Removal? Maybe I could paralyze! I attacked and it succeeded!

But it was too early to celebrate. Yet another Energy Removal stripped me of my ability to attack.

I sent out a Ponyta hoping to buy more than one turn.

60 damage again crushed my Ponyta. What glimmer of hope there was for winning this duel was now gone. My foe had the following: Kangaskhan with four energy with 40/90HP, A Lickitung with two energy and 90/90HP, A Chansey with four energy and 120/120HP, and another Lickitung with two energy and 90/90HP.

Meanwhile I had no energy on any mon. I had a Porygon and two Voltorb. My opponent had eight cards while I only had three.

But Victoria was so close! Just a little more!

I played another Ponyta hoping it to survive a turn so I could evolve it to buy more time.

Comet Punch completely missed that time!

I evolved Ponyta and attached energy to Voltorb. Time to get back in there and see if I could KO a mon!

Paralysis failed, but only 20 damage away from KO.

Comet Punch took down Voltorb for 40 damage. My foe now only had two prizes remaining...

Another Bill! I played it but drew a useless Switch and Porygon. No energy. No more card draw. It was now impossible to win, but Victoria was now extremely close to completing her mission!

I let Dark Rapidash tank for a turn, but my foe played Switch to bring out the instrument of my demise... Chansey! It crashed into my Dark Rapidash, KOing it instantly. The 80 damage recoil to Chansey didn't even matter at this point...

Only one chance remained... I attached energy to Voltorb and performed a last ditch attack. A failure, no paralysis. It was now about to be over, but I could see Victoria was done! She was now carefully backing away to avoid suspicion.

I closed my eyes as I waited for the end. It was swiftly granted as Chansey took itself down to KO my final mon, allowing GR2 to claim the final prize.

(207)



I opened my eyes and smiled. "This won't be the end of me, and unbeknownst to you, I've accomplished my goals. Have fun not being able to figure out what they were."

GR2 said nothing, lifted their hand, and a needle shot out a slot on the glove of their suit, hitting me square in the chest.

Ah... must have been... a tranquil...iz...er...

 

[Tango]

Special thanks to K_S for beta reading!

Chapter 38: Mission Report​

(208)

My mission was a success, but Mister Gentleman was unable to escape, but I'll hold his wallet for him. First, I need to report to Claire.

---

Claire stood resolute at the news. Both hands upon the top of her cane. "An apt statement. Winning against GR2 was not in the cards..."



I sighed and frowned. "What do we do now?"



Claire pulled up the photos of the report on the big screen. Her face illuminated by the dim light of the monitor. "That depends on the contents. Have you read it yet?"



I stood beside her reading over her shoulder. "Yeah, but I don't understand it!"

Claire carefully perused while I tried to follow along.

---

(209)

Mission Report

May 7th
The latest report from TCG Island revealed new information regarding their Champion. Duelists from there are so weak that even their Champions seldom matter, but this one is different. He is defeating the club members with an all-common deck. An unprecedented feat. But, more importantly, this duelist has no name! This MUST be investigated. Could it be the breakthrough we have long awaited? I rewarded Stephanie handsomely for such information.

May 13th
It seems fate has a sense of humor... Stephanie arranged a contract with the TCG Island Club Master, Isaac. He wants their Champion kidnapped! I'll schedule a trip to appraise and plan. I'll need to arrange a demonstration since Isaac had understandable concerns with job performance. After all, it's not the sort of thing one wants to almost work.

June 1st
I did it! I found what all who came before failed to find! To live in such an age and to have such an honor... This changes everything! Our plans must now decelerate until the proper moment. His instructions were very clear that this should take precedence. Indeed, it is the only thing that does! I do not understand the significance, but comprehension is no prerequisite for obedience. I shall report back to that imbecile who thinks he controls me. He is nothing compared to the one I truly serve...

June 2nd
Response came faster than anticipated. It appears the witch is being useful for a change! I shall make the necessary preparations.

June 3rd
The stage is set. Not that there was much to do. GR blimps are well stocked for any task and my squad is always ready. Now I will wait. I'll strike at night. That way he won't have guests. I will forgo the duel requirement lest it prompt him to refuse. His agreement is essential. From what I have heard, I am far from needing a duel requirement to defeat him and his confidence should be at an all-time high...

(Addendum)
My prayers to the supreme being were interrupted. I collected my fee for the disruption, but the cause was worthless. Isaac called off the contract, so I am keeping all the money as his punishment. I will cut the Champion off from his friends. I'll pay Stephanie to make it look like he is fumigating his home and erect a temporary cover for the window. I wouldn't want anyone getting curious...

June 4th
The duel went flawlessly. What an idiot. Thinking he could beat me with commons...

In contrast, his Doduo displayed a possible aggression I was NOT prepared for! Hand to hand combat with a Doduo could prove deadly! I am too valuable to perish now, not when the time is so close at hand! Fortunately, it went down with one of the nets. Good thing I brought a back-up. I'll just unload the bird with 'Mister Gentleman' at the drop-off point.

June 5th
I read his Diary and understand his deck.

He is no match for me, but should put up quite a fight on our island. This bodes well for the second stage. Preparations for it are complete and the members of The Undersiders will unknowingly be my eyes and ears.

For the third stage, construction of the facility is not yet complete, but the hiring process is underway. Once built, we can no longer come and go as we please. Someone will be needed on the inside. One of the Neo Island natives should do. In fact, I already have a target in mind...

Her fiance will be abducted, deported, and cut off from all communication with her. It will look like he abandoned her. I'll let her struggle. If anyone gets close? Accidents happen... When her mind breaks, I'll step in to bathe her in support, sympathy, money, and gifts. I'll have her walk the same path as I and be initiated. She will be trained and prepared as an offering bride for our master. His rise to power will be glorious!

The forth stage of the plan will prove most difficult. I will first need to antagonize Mister Gentleman. The timing and set up for the final phase of stage four must fall within the parameters of the prophecy. If it works, centuries of labor will come to fruition!

With prophecy working for us, the Third Eye disbanded, and the Ghostmasters sealed, the time is ripe!

We are now over half way to the drop-off point. I'll return the diary to him shortly before we unload and make sure he has his deck. He will need it. I'll also leave the 'note' with him. It should prove a most effective motivator...

Afterwards I'll report to the insufferable witch and begin stage three.

End Report