Chapter 72: Icy inspections

Chapter 72: Icy inspections

Lorelei had been asked to wait in the trainer lounge, something that hopefully wasnt taken as a slight. Then again, it was a nicer space than sticking her in my office and asking her to wait. I paused at the entrance to observe her.

Lorelei was seen as the cool beauty of the Elite Four. It was also well known that she and Lance didnt get along. Not since Lance took over from her grandfather, Pryce, as Champion. I could only imagine that it caused her a lot of stress to be waiting for her official step-down order. I wasnt sure if that translated into the tension in her jaw or the way she tapped her finger on the chair as she flipped through a magazine with her other hand.

I swallowed my worries and stepped forward. Lorelei, I said in greeting.

Lorelei raised her gaze from the magazine shed been reading through. I noted that it was not one of the magazines that we supplied to the Gyms trainers. I paused. You brought your own magazine? I said in surprise.

Lorelei nodded, not at all bothered, as she packed the magazine away into her purse. Ive gotten used to being sent on errands and kept waiting, she said with a clipped tone. She assessed me critically, I understand that youre rather busy, Brock, so thank you for agreeing to meet with me so quickly.

I blinked in surprise, still hung up on the point shed raised earlier. People are making you wait? I said. But youre an Elite Four member?

She narrowed her eyes, shooting a frosty look at me through her glasses. Let us not pretend that I am favoured by Lance. I know of his hang-ups with me. Any complaints I have, fall on deaf ears.

I kind of expected better from Lance, I said sternly. Then again, hed have to overcome his distaste for her as an Ice trainer, which meant she was also a threat to him, so it made sense he would naturally be antagonistic or evasive. I could feel the room was a few degrees cooler than it should be, and the only difference was that Loreli was sitting in it. That, more than any I.D badge she had, served as her credentials.

I imagine a number of people could have copied her red hair and schoolteacher vibe to a tee. But theyd fall short of exuding ice-type energy.

Lorelei inspected me critically, and I could see her lips narrowing. She opened her mouth only to be interrupted by another voice.

Broooooooock!!!! wailed Cindy as she raced into the lounge, uncaring that Lorelei was here. I accidentally tripped and tore my homework while I was in the playground! Miss Spencer is going to be so mad!

Ah? I said, finding myself caught in a lurch as I shifted from Gym Leader to Big Brother Brock. What was your homework? I asked before I could stop myself.

Cindy shoved a sheet of paper that was ripped into two parts which I looked over critically.

Okay, calm down. I was about to say it didnt matter all that much, but then I recalled that that would never work with distraught kids. Ive got an idea! How about we use the photocopier to line up the torn sheets and then print them out like new.

Cindy sniffled as she got herself back under control. She wont mind that its all dirty? she said.

No, any teacher worth her chalk wont care, said Lorelei suddenly, making me startle. Id forgotten about her, or rather, Id been expecting her to not get involved.

Cindy glanced at Lorelei. Oh! Sorry Brock, I should have realised you were busy! She sniffled again, and I handed her a handkerchief which she blew into. When she handed it back to me I grabbed a corner and shoved it into a pocket in my pants that was well used to receiving such gifts from my siblings.

No problem, Im going to get Alexa to help you out, Im sure she wont mind alright? I said gently, leading her to Alexa whod been hovering outside the door. I handed Cindy over to get her homework seen to and then returned back to school. I gave her some more assurances that all would be well before I turned back to Lorelei.

Sorry about that! I said with a slight chuckle.

Lorelei stared at me for a long minute. You you were telling the truth about not wanting or being able to take on the Elite Four position, werent you? she said suddenly.

Huh? Oh that, yeah. I waved a hand behind me. I have way too much going on to worry about something like that.

Lorelei nodded slowly. I see. I She worried at her lip before sighing explosively.

She rubbed at her forehead. I should apologise. I came into this expecting Lance to be shoving you in my face. So I delayed and dragged my feet.

I tilted my head. Two days was her dragging her feet on a job?

Lorelei kept talking, not noticing my conduct. With how the media wont stop talking about you potentially joining, I thought this was supposed to be a very different trip.

Oh! Well, that actually makes a lot of sense, I said with a smile.

She tilted her head as if confused before shaking it off. Well, regardless, how would you like to proceed with my review of the ancient pokemon and the resurrection machine?

I scratched my cheek and then glanced at my watch. Would you like me to reschedule my afternoon? I only have half an hour for lunch, and that might not be long enough for your needs, I asked.

Lorelei stared at me. Did Not many people do that for her or something? It made me wonder more about her. Id well Id not really considered how she was treated, but now I empathised with her a bit.

It always sucked being stuck waiting for things to happen. When the Pokenet got more solidly filled out and useful, I had no doubt that if her circumstances were the same shed be carrying a laptop around instead of magazines.

That wont be necessary, she said while adjusting her glasses, I merely wanted to inform you that I am following up on the task that Lance assigned me. We can meet up at another time or

You just need access to the back reserve right? I said, cutting her off. She nodded her head and I grinned. Alright, easily done! Did you also want to talk with Bianca, our resident breeding specialist?

Lorelei once more considered me before nodding slowly. That would actually not be a bad place to begin. I will inform you that I am going to document your facilities and will be applying the Leagues standard for breeding facilities. If you dont have certain levels or are missing facilities, you will need to reapply at a later date with the error or errors fixed.

I opened my mouth to point out that it sounded like her job could have been done by an auditor but then my mind kicked into gear and shut my mouth. I didnt want Auditor Timothy back here again. I repressed a shudder.

I nodded. If those are still the same from a few months ago, I know Bianca saw to that first when she moved here.

I ticked off my fingers. Resident certified specialist, care facilities, suitable habitat, nutrition plans and I chewed my lip. What was the last one?

Options for genetic diversity, for the pokemon with matings witnessed, said Lorelei distastefully.

Oh, thats the one I always deliberately forget, I said, more to myself than her. She nodded though and I found a companion for the ick factor of breeding. Damn Don and that flock of Wingull.

That should be agreeable. Then after youre finished with todays challenges, would you be available to visit the resurrection machine itself?

I considered my timetable. I dont think I have any pressing details I need to see to, so yes.

Lorelei nodded again, this time with a pleased expression. Excellent, this might be wrapped up by tonight. She stood and offered me her hand. My thanks Gym Leader, I will get to work reviewing your proposed breeding facility, and we can talk again this afternoon.

I shook her hand, pleased that she had been for all intents and purposes, easy to work with. A thought occurred to me. Oh, if you see a younger version of me running around named Salvadore, would it be alright for him to shadow you? Hes really interested in being a researcher, so maybe what youre doing will catch his attention.

She nodded. That should be fine. Im used to dealing with students from my time as a teacher before I became Gym Leader at Mahogany.

You were a teacher? I said with surprise.

She nodded. Yes, I actually still give lectures at the Indigo Academies, such as Pokemon Tech outside Pewter.

Oh, cool. I deal with them to set up badge challenges to demonstrate skill level during their coursework. I recalled something about them. I glanced over my shoulder to where Alexa was lingering in the doorway, apparently having seen Cindy back off to school. Hey Alexa? Did Pokemon Tech rebook their matches for this years accreditation?

Alexa shook her head.

Lorelei pursed her lips. That will be a problem for them. Hmmm, I will ask around. Perhaps they are going to another Gym this year?

Hmmm, Id usually be bothered if they did, but Im honestly busy enough to not notice if that was the case, I said with a grimace. Terrible attitude to have though, I said rubbing my chin. I might send them a message to check in.

Lorelei straightened up only to pause and look me over. Have you ever considered lecturing?

Me? Yeah, I do it sometimes, but only at Pokemon Tech.

Lorelei tapped her lips thoughtfully. Would you be open to talking at other schools?

I shrugged. Depends how busy I am.

Lorelei bobbed her head up and down once more. I will make some inquiries at my alma mater, Glacier College, in Mahogany. With your rare pokemon you would be a welcome addition to their list of speakers. Also, as a predominantly ice trainer facility, I imagine having a Rock specialist come and speak would be something novel for them and offer valuable insight.

I chuckled but agreed with her. A buzzer went off on my wrist and I clicked my tongue. I need to see to some tasks before the next match, but heres a guest pass. I said, handing her a lanyard with a guest pass attached to it. Ill have Alexa lead you to where Bianca is. Also, watch out for Don, my Aerodactyl. Hes the most likely to take a swipe at you.

Noted, said Lorelei as she strode up to Alexa. Interestingly, Loreleis icy aura had vanished. I frowned. Had it been there when Cindy ran into the room? Interesting.

Then Yolanda perked up and shot me a sly look that I knew spelt trouble. Hey Brock, remember how it was my turn to clean up around the house?

Alarm bells were ringing in my head at her innocent tone. I knew something was up. Like a soldier stepping onto a field with possible planted Electrodes throughout, I advanced warily. Yeeeeeees? I said.

Yolanda rocked back and forth on her heels. Weeeell Nanny Grav and I, At Loreleis confused look she elaborated. Thats the name we call Graveler. She pointed to the Graveler who hung around the house and acted like a Nanny.

Ah, Nanny Grav, I understand. She eyed the apron-wearing Graveler before shaking her head and dismissing it.

Yolanda nodded and continued. Well, me and her were cleaning the hall and me, being such a good little sister, decided to clean your room for you!

I narrowed my eyes at her. The true translation of what shed said read as I felt like snooping and needed a reason that you cant fault me for. How nice of you, I might return the favour.

She grinned widely. I know, thatd be nice! But I had a problem see I wasnt sure how to do your laundry. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. For a silk pillow case!

I smiled back. Damn, shed noticed Sabrinas pillowcase on my bed! Thats just a delicate spin cycle. Thanks though. If you had wrecked it I wouldnt have such silky smooth hair, I said, lying like only an older brother can.

She stared long and hard at me before clicking her tongue. Then she played her next card. Why do you have two brushes in your bathroom?

I use one toothbrush for my top teeth and the other for my bottom teeth, I said, doubling down.

Tch! she said, this time clicking her teeth audibly. I turned and coughed into my fist. It seemed like a good time to tactically relocate before she found anything else.

Lorelei, we should probably be going if we want to review the resurrection machine?

Lorelei accepted this with a highly amused expression, and we left despite my siblings protests. When I released Selene and she released a Jynx we teleported away. When we arrived she spoke up. Shes not going to be fooled for long~, she said.

Urgh, she doesnt need to involve herself. Its already complicated enough!

Lorelei rolled her eyes and walked into the museum. It sounds like youre the one making it complicated. It seems cut and dry from what Ive heard, and thats only knowing you keep a pillow and toiletries in your house for her.

I huffed. Lets just, review the machine! I said. Damn it, why was it that people picking fights were easier to deal with than actual nice people?

[/hr]

Crowley slammed down his hand into the byzantine calculations that hed been drawing out for us with his brief explanation. and that is why there will need to be at least ten thousand sample cases before I consider this machine fully operational! said Crowley.

I was startled awake and wiped some drool from my chin as I nodded. Nailed it.

Next to me, Lorelei bobbed her head and made a mark on her page. Hmmmm. I glanced at her, impressed that shed been able to take in that I glanced at my watch. Huh, thirty-minute lecture. Then I noticed her vacant eyes. I coughed and the focus returned to her eyes, it was like watching a computer screen turn on as she awoke. Thank you for that explanation. I will take that into consideration. she collected her papers. Then she patted the assistant on the head, nodded to the Lileep amicably, and walked out the door.

I followed her out and found her looking back with a confused expression. I think I pat the wrong thing back there, I was in such a hurry to leave.

I tried to remember what shed done before barking out a laugh. Yeah, I dont think theyll mind though. I rolled my shoulders. I should have warned you not to ask too many questions. Crowley is pretty good as long as you keep the questions low. If you start showing lots of interest he will explain everything and then some.

Noted, she said as she looked at her notes. There was a lot he said there, but it seems to be close to getting to an alpha testing stage soon which will be enough for a lot of interested parties. She adjusted her glasses and then turned to face me properly.

Brock, would you be interested in further licensing rights for the use of the machine?

I would tentatively, yes. I then rolled my hand about. It would depend on the details but I think thats something I can push onto my accountant and Lawyer. What would the League be interested in?

Lorelei bit her lip. For this Im not acting in my role as a League representative but rather a representative for my grandfather Pryce.

I blinked. Oh, right. He has an interest in ancient pokemon? I said, my mind flitting to Amaura or Aurorus.

Indeed, Lorelei said before glancing about. She nodded to herself before tossing out two pokemon, one was her Jynx and the other her Glaceon. She waved her hand in a circle. Perimeter, me and him only, she said to them. Both pokemon bobbed their heads. Jynx stayed close to us with her eyes glowing while Glaceon darted away and started circling in a patrol pattern, its eyes scanning around. I almost opened my mouth to ask why she didnt use a Frosslass before what I was about to say caught up with me and I shut my mouth.

Lorelei coughed into her fist. Its not a huge secret, but its also not one that we give out very often. Mahogany Town is known for its icy caverns and crystals. What it isnt as well thought of is that the ice can preserve as well as any fossil can. At Mahogany gym we have a sizeable store of pokemon that weve dated to ancient times. Wed be interested in collaborating with you on this. You could then claim the pokemon for your breeding facility.

After paying you for the genetic samples, I said, pointing out what she hadnt said.

Of course. If, however, my grandfathers hopes are proven true and due to the difference in preservation method the resulting pokemon share an ice typing, we would like your support in establishing our own breeding license. She watched me carefully. A new line of pokemon would be a large draw for the Mahogany Gym.

I nodded. Yeah, it would be, and I think I agree theres a lot of potential for an ice-typed ancient pokemon. I tilted my head. What if theyre rock-ice typed?

We will have to set up terms for that, she said. I nodded my head and hummed. I see no issues. There might be difficulties with going from fossils to frozen samples but Im not willing to ask Crowley that right now. Ill inform my team, and well make this work, I think.

Lorelei beamed at me, Excellent, grandfather will be pleased with your willingness to help even if we dont end up getting a new pokemon for our Gym.

Ever do any mining up in Mahogany? I asked before I could stop myself.

No, the environment makes it tough to do so and the caves we have are mostly heritage listed for their cultural significance to our Town. why?

No reason, I said with a wave of my hand. I just thought you might have some rare rocks, what with you being so high up. Ice rocks and things that come from getting as much sun as they would.

Lorelei watched me. I will have to make some inquiries, perhaps there has been something found that I am unaware of.

I shrugged. It never hurts to keep an eye out. You might have treasure sitting under your nose, I said while looking up at Mt Moon.

Hmmm, quite, well thank you for working with me and tell the children I said good night to them. It was it was nice meeting you Brock, she said, offering me a handshake that I gripped and shook once.

It was nice meeting you properly as well Lorelei, I said. I chewed my lip before smiling in as charming a manner as I could, Sure I couldnt interest you in a casual one-on-one? I offered, feeling my pulse race at the prospect at fighting an Elite Four member.

She shot me a cool look. Another time perhaps, she clicked her fingers to call her pokemon back before she teleported away with her Jynx.

I returned home to find the kids eating with Janine sitting at the table. When I entered, she offered me a bow. Brock! I must apologise for I will not be able to complete my term as your apprentice! Father is in dire need of me at the Gym!

No need to be like that, I said with a wave before sighing. I cant say I wasnt expecting this but not for a bit longer.

I pursed my lips and looked her over. She looked different in her more rocky colour gear than how shed arrived. I hope you got to learn a lot from how we run things here, I said.

You cant leave! shouted Cindy.

Salvadore nodded. Yeah! You said you were going to teach me how to throw kunai!

Janine went from casual to alert in a second. I made no such deal! she said quickly. Salvadore grinned at her and she avoided looking at me. Forrest chuckled. Well, I got her to teach me to do a flip!

So cool! said Billy as he looked up at his older brother.

I chuckled. This, I think Im going to have to see.

Forrest paused at that. Oh

I snorted at him and looked back to find Janine still being mobbed by my siblings. The kids all complained at her departure. Then they whined as one, in a move I knew they practised.

I am unmoved by such acts! she said firmly. I noted she wasnt meeting any of the girls' eyes as they used their baby-doll eyes. I chuckled.

Come on, gang, thats not fair to Janine. Her father needs her back and thats fine. I grinned. I believe you wanted to have a spar with me before you left though?

Janines eyes widened and then she locked eyes with me. Yes!!

Lets take this outside then!

My siblings cheered as I led everyone outside with a grin. I might have been rejected by Lorelei, but I still had a fight to look forward to tonight.