"Looking back, my first proper day as a field agent with him was riddled with screws-ups. Because of that, I don't really blame him for being such a hardass anymore. Although, whenever I mention any of those days to Ana, she tends to break out in laughter. Saying that she can't wrap her head around the thought of him wanting to give up on me that easily. Though had those days gone any differently, it probably would've spelled the end for a lot of the region."

"This isn't adding up. No reports on his sighting, but his men are on the move again? Unless…" A man in a brown coat muttered. His black hair was disheveled, with black rings forming under his eyes. He rubbed the sweat building up by his brows as he intently stared at the large wooden board pinned with sheets of newspapers and maps. They were all marked to the brim with red highlights, focused around specific zones. His desk was cluttered with knocked-over stacks of paper.

The mess did not end with the desk clutter. If another individual were to be in this room, they would witness the dumpster that the man's office had become. Chair knocked sideways; trashcans filled the brim with crumpled piles of documents. Cardboard cups littered the floor, riddled with days-old stains of coffee.

The man continued to tap his pen on his desk. Carefully puzzling together certain documents to a map of the Kanto region. His eyes eventually wandered to the photo of what appeared to be a father-son duo. A red-haired child standing close to an older figure who was dressed in quite the extravagant suit. The older figure's eyes were covered with sunglasses. But that's not what grabbed the investigator's attention. His focus was squarely on the child.

A sudden ring echoed throughout his office. Pulling him out of his mental train of thought. Instinctively reaching for the phone on his desk, he quickly realized that it was not the source of the ringing.

He frowned, realizing the origin of the sound. Quickly fetching a silver key from his pocket. He unlocked and opened the bottom drawer of his desk, revealing a small flat cuboid device the size of his palm. The design was a simple matte black with a yellow 'S' imprinted at the top of the bezel. It was a standard-issue Pokegear developed by Silph Company and made specifically for International Police agents.

The folded device vibrated violently in the man's palm as he stared at it. Contemplating and finding a reason to not answer.

Sighing to himself, he flipped it open. Seeing that the number calling was private, he mentally prepared himself. There were only a few people that knew the number for this device, and they knew now wasn't the best time to call him. He pressed the 'speaker' button on the device and laid the device on the desk. He leaned back into his chair, grumbling at the sudden intrusion.

"Better be a good reason for this." He muttered, "You're speaking to Looker. You either have the wrong number or I'm getting a call that Raquazza is coming down again."

"Come on, it's only been two years and here you are talking like you're past my seniority." A gruff deep tone arose from the other side. Looker also noted a hint of a slur at the end.

The familiar voice had caused him to stiffen. Old memories rush to the forefront. A smile formed on Looker's face, realizing the identity of the voice. The bated breath he had been holding in flowed out.

"Triple O? Not that I don't mind the call, but you're usually not one to catch up on old times," He asked while raising an eyebrow.

"You hurt me, old friend. What's with that tone, your coffee was too black for your liking again?"

Looker rolled his eyes at the suggestion.

If only that were the case Nanu.

"Sorry, it's just this case that has been getting to me. I've gotten so close yet every time the wall enacts itself stopping me."

He glanced back at the board, the photo with the red-headed child caused his knuckles to turn pale white.

"That's what the calls for to be perfectly honest. It was quite annoying to reach you through this method." A snort came from the other side as the voice mellowed out, "Enough paranoia to even put me to shame. You learned well."

Only from the best of course.

"Have to be precautious just like you taught me. There's been a moment where I've noticed that I'm being watched. Not here of course, but in the hideouts back in Kanto."

"Rockets?"

"Not sure, could be anyone with the number of targets we've painted on our backs over the years. Wouldn't surprise me if we somehow got on Aqua's or Magma's bad side after all these years."

A sigh echoed out from the Pokegear. "I've stalled this long enough. Listen, Headquarters wants to speak with you personally. For what reason? I'm guessing it's to do with the Rocket Case."

Looker became noticeably irritated at the information. "I just need more time…by when do they want me- No I'll head over right away."

"See to it, they have been hounding me for the past week to get in contact with you. Seeing as how you cut off all the other lines. It was nice talking with you again Looker."

"Until next time Na- Triple O, sorry old habits die hard."

The line audibly cut off. The device's LCD whitening. Looker proceeded to reach back into the drawer for another device. This time it was the shape of a sphere with a distinct red and white design.

Palming the head of the ball. He stared at his reflection on the pokeball momentarily. Attaching it onto his hip while frowning. He quickly grabbed his coat and bag hanging next to the door of the office. He gave one last look around before locking the door.

"Let's just get this over with…"

Inside a white stainless room sat a bundle of well-dressed individuals around a large circular wooden table. They sat in no particular order except for the one sitting directly across the door.

In the middle sat a tall black-haired gruff man. His face was riddled with wrinkles. His slick hair was filled with streaks of white. His white suit lacked any stains or wrinkles. His icy blue stare lay on the door as he impatiently tapped the surface of the table. Casually ignoring the heated conversion of the three other seated individuals.

"We need to position fewer agents away from Lilycove! We've already searched it to -" aggressively spoke a tall dark-skinned man in a tan suit. His face remarks a scowl for the man sitting across from him.

A pale balding male, wearing a brown vest over a black shirt sat, raising an eyebrow at the suggestion just made. "And then what? We still haven't rinsed out the last of Magma nor Aqua in Hoenn!"

"What good will they do without their leaders? I say we leave the scraps for Hoenn Authorities and the Pokemon League to clean it up. We've done all that we could and besides our issues in Orre have only been growing." Offered the man in the tan suit. Visibly calming himself down.

"What you're suggesting sounds like having our agents become soldiers! This is not a war." Spoke that last of the three men. Dressed in a tight blue suit with a black tie. On his face was a set of black square glasses that gleamed in the glare he was giving.

The three men paused their arguing as the glass door at the front of the office creaked open. Out came the man they had all been waiting for.

"Apologies for my tardiness, Director Enzo," Looker said, giving a quick bow to the four men. He took the seat closest to the door and directly across the now Identified Director.

"Glad you could finally join us, Looker. Please make yourself comfortable. This will only be a moment." The man at the end of the table gestured.

"Of course. May I presume this meeting is in regards to my current mission sir?" He offered, meeting the eyes of the four men.

The man sitting closest to Looker spoke first. This was the individual who had first spoken up about moving agents away. "Watch your mouth. This is a matter of your progress or rather lack thereof-" The director lifted his hand. Pausing whatever remarks the short-vested man had in store.

"Please Richard, allow me." Letting out a hearty chuckle. Only for his face to firm up and his tone to become serious. "Yes Looker, this is about the Rocket Case." Walking to the glass wall facing Prism Tower and the other skyscrapers of Lumiose City. He stared outwards, reminiscing.

"Two years since that raid…how time flies. Naive, weren't we? Thinking this would be a clear-cut target. In all honesty, I'm quite surprised you have made any progress at all with how cunning he is. And to think he was under our noses this whole time as a gym leader? He played us as we graduated from the academy"

Look straightened himself. A tinge of fear is evident in his voice. "If this is in regard to moving me away from this case, then sir apologies but I-I refu-"

The director shook his head, "People today are just not letting me finish, are they? No, to make things short and simple. We are reassigning some agents around due to rising concerns. While it would be quite the boon to move you to one of the cases in Orrre or Hoenn, the choice will remain yours. Although not without a caveat…" He drew the last part. Only to gesture his hand to the man in the blue suit and glasses.

This caused Looker to narrow his eyes. Visibly tensing in anticipation for conditions they had in preparation. After all, this seemed to be his last shot at the case.

"Thank you, Director. Looker, In all honesty, with someone of your talent, we could really use you on this mystery going on in Orre. While yes, the case of Giovanni and Rocket's remnants is something we must always be prepared for. Their numbers are a fraction of what they once were. Not to mention the reigning Kanto Champion has a history with them. If anyone could snuff them out, it would be him."

"He's also the most hand-offs Champion of the major regions. Believe me, I've tried contacting him, but just as enigmatic with the League as he is with the public."

"Whatever the case, this is indeed 'your last shot' before we reassign you. Now for the caveat, you will no longer be working alone." Looker opened his mouth only for the man to continue speaking. Quickly analyzing and answering whatever question Looker was thinking. "No, before you ask. Agent Triple O is currently preoccupied with his classified mission. It was enough of a risk to contact him to reach you. It's best if he is left to his own devices until he completes his assignment."

"Then who will I be provided?"

The man in the tan suit spoke up. Opening a manila folder that Looker only just noticed. "Born in the Unova region. He's a rookie in terms of being in the force. Holding quite the record as a pokemon trainer and as a temporary member of the Castelia Police Department."

"It also says here that he is brash and quick to anger…"

"From the current pool of available options, he's the best we got."

The face of a younger man popped up in Looker's mind. "Agent Tedesco?"

"Hoenn cleanup operation," replied Richard sternly.

"What about Agent Koya?" This time, a more stoic smaller figure appeared from his memory.

"Stationed in Sinnoh. Further information is classified." Replied the Director.

"This guy is only ranked a Trainee."

"Better than a Rookie. You'll have to make do with what we have. Like we said, quantity isn't our strongest suit right now."

"How experienced are we talking with this guy," Looker asked while skimming through the guy's file. A photograph of eight distinct symbols appeared on the second page.

The man in glasses began to speak up. "He's made it to the Unova Elite Four. Defeated three of the four. Was invited and attempted the Kanto Battle Frontier. Files on that one are sparser, but we've gathered that he made it to until the Battle Pyramid."

Looker lowered the folder. Furrowing his brows in confusion. "Then what is he doing being assigned to a criminal case? Sounds to me that you have someone highly qualified for the International Defense on Richard's sec? His description doesn't fit the Criminal Investigation division Hughes."

"He requested Criminal Investigation. Whatever the case, this is who you'll be working with. Failure to cooperate means reassignment. Sorry, Looker, it's just the way things are right now." Hughes replied.

Internally biting his lip, Looker hesitantly nodded. "When will I be starting with him?"

"You'll be meeting him tomorrow morning in Saffron. The information needed is on the last page of the folder."

Sighing to himself. Looker stood up and began walking to the door. "Alright…Thank you for this opportunity, Director."

"Think nothing of it. And Looker, remember. Only one shot…"

He nodded and closed the door as he left. The folder bent as he walked through Headquarters skimming through the files. A mugshot showing a cocky smirk irked the agent.

Walking through the streets of Saffron City was a young male. His brown hair tied into a bun flew wildly with the city's gust blowing through. Over his shoulders was a small black duffel bag. He was dressed in a white buttoned shirt with dark grey dress pants. Holstered on his belt was a single Pokeball. A strained smile marred his face as an urge to facepalm was arising.

His bright green eyes carefully scanned the concrete buildings. Dumbfounded as he double-checked his handheld device. The address on his Pokegear for some reason was not match up with the address given to him.

"The directions say the hotel should be around here…but where exactly is here- Dammit couldn't I have just stayed at some Pokemon Center?" He lamented. He glanced around, trying to scan out individuals from the crowd. Silently hoping that one of these passersby might be who he is supposed to meet.

"Saffron wasn't this big last time, was it?" The young male said seemingly to himself.

As he passed through the streets of Kanto City, a flurry of old memories rush to him. Back when he found joy in battle.

After a few minutes of silently sulking in the middle of the street. He inhaled deeply and began to take a tour of the city once again. Retracing his steps back to the Saffron Train Station.

In his lack of awareness, the young male bumped into something that felt quite boney.

Falling butt first on the rough concrete, he shook his head and glanced up realizing its not something that he bumped into, but someone. There was also an explosion of papers that scattered the main lobby now thanks to him.

Though his attention lied squarely on the absurd purple hair of the man.

It was styled in quite a complicated design. Being cut short on the sides with the middle being permed into a curl. So fascinated with his unique style that he spaced out the loud muttering coming from said man. Only for his attention to be grabbed once he was grasped by the shirt from the man.

"Hey! Are you even listening? I said watch where you're going!"

Getting a better view of the man, the young male glanced the individual up and down. Tall and lanky although it managed to go with the black commercial suit he was wearing. The scowl growing on the victim's face managed to knock the young man out of his stupor.

"Ah, sorry about that. I wasn't paying attention to where I was heading. My bad, but uh…I know this is sudden-Would you happen to know where this address is by chance? My name is Jerry by the way." The now identified Jerry extended his arm out to help the man up.

"Tch…gonna make me late to my ride. Hey, why don't you just scram it, and maybe we'll both forget this ever happened. Arceus dammit look at what you made me drop."

"Again…I'm really really sorry. Here let me help you out." Placing his duffel bag down and began collecting the papers sprawled in the middle of the train station.

"No! No! NO! You've already messed up enough as is. Just get out of here before I stop being nice."

"Alright- but before I leave, could you at least point me in the direction of this address. I'm also in a rush right now."

"Fine, it gets you out of my hair easily. Take a right turn heading out. Now move before you ruin anything else." Gesturing his hands in a pushing manner. He gritted his teeth as he picked up the last of the papers laying on the floor. "I'm not going to hear the end of this from her-"

"Petrel, where the hell are you?! The train leaves at any minute now." A feminine voice shouted. Looking down the aisle, the source came from a red-headed middle-aged woman tapping on her watch while looking irritated. She had shoulder-length hair. Having a white suit akin to the man now named Petral wore. Similarly, she had a briefcase on her left hand that seemed to have just as much filled.

"I'm on my way…just give me a second." Silently giving Jerry a side glare. Hastily, he stuffed the papers back inside his case and sprinted to the train cart.

Waiting a few seconds until he saw them both enter the train, Jerry let out a chuckle. "...Well that could've been worse to be perfectly honest."

As he made a turn for the exit of the station, he felt something attach to his shoe. Looking down, it seemed to be one of the papers that flew out from the man's briefcase. Glancing back at the train, it had already begun moving. Shrugging his shoulders his picked it up and shoved it into his pocket.

'Alright, he said to take a right but, Oh - Wait, no wonder I got lost." Facepalming to himself. He quickened his pace to the designated area, narrowly sidestepping the pedestrians and accompanying pokemon of Saffron.

While walking, the male glanced both ways before tilting his head downwards and softly whispering, "Hey thanks for keeping your cool. He didn't seem that threatening, but I know how hard it is for you bud."

The silence was his only reply.

After seemingly a few more minutes. Jerry had reached a building that wasn't all that impressive. One couldn't blame him for missing such a building when it looked quite similar to all the other inns and homesteads of the area. It was grey brick with a red accent that did give it some life. The only special part of it was the sign saying "Ninetails Den".

Entering the establishment, the interior reminded Jerry of a log cabin. The rustic design of the furniture. The fireplace smoldered with leather chairs placed nearby. It surprised him that such a place existed in a city like Saffron. He silently regretted missing this warm place during his last visit to the city years ago.

Quickly glancing at his watch, sweat built upon his forehead. He walked up to the receptionist, "Hi uh…afternoon. I know I'm an hour late to my appointment, but is the room still be available?"

"There's always one…" She muttered under her breath while quickly typing on her keyboard. "Last name?"

"Jerome Weisz," he quickly responded.

"I'm sorry, bu-" She paused her apology, seemingly focused on the piece of paper Jerry had brought out. "Y-Yes, it seems here that there is a room open on the second floor. Just give me one moment while I grab your card."

Jerry scratched his head. "Is this HQ's doing?"

The woman meanwhile had pulled open a drawer from the desk she was sitting at. Reaching in and grabbing what seemed to be a key. Quickly taking a moment to check for passerby's, she unlocked a different drawer and grabbed a metallic card.

Composing herself, she handed the key over to Jerry while her tone began to shift to a serious manner. "I shouldn't need to tell you this, but standard procedures are standard procedures. This key never leaves your sight. This key will never be in the hands of anyone else but yourself. Finally, no one else shall enter the room unless they present a similar card."

"...right -yes! Crystal Clear mam."

She made a glance at the sheet of paper before letting her hand come off the card. "May you have a good day sir."

"Yeah…you have a good day as well." He replied slowly, before quickening his pace to the given room.

"What the hell is this place?" Glancing down, the shadow underneath him started to grow slightly wider. "Whatever, seems like this is the room? It looks normal for such a special card…" Hesitantly, he swiped the metal card with the hotel's security mechanism. In response, it shined bright orange and then suddenly bright green.

Entering the room, everything seemed normal at first glance. The bed was neatly made. All the electronics were turned off and there was no sign of anything extravagant or special. This caused Jerry to begin scratching his head.

Suddenly, from his shadow, a dark figure arose. After a few seconds, the shadow took the form of a violet spherical creature. After a second, it revealed itself to be a Gengar. Immediately, it took a protective stance and moved behind its trainer. Growling in the direction they had entered the room.

"Gar! Gen Gar!"

Unaware of what was happening, Jerry began opening his bag and unloading his laptop. "Hey, we just got here. Give me a moment to pr- Who…are you?" His body tensed as he took position behind his Gengar.

Looker, for his part, did not seem fazed by the ominous and suffocating aura that the pokemon was giving off. He merely stood there, leaning on the wall by the door and casually tapping his watch. Still dressed in the same clothes from a few days ago. "Honestly, can't say I'm too surprised…I was expecting you to be a whole day late by this point from what I got on your file."

"Wait…you're the guy HQ assigned me to aren't you?"

Looker gestured to the seat next to Jerry. "The names Looker and we have a few things to discuss."

Hi there, welcome to my take on a Pokemon story. I had always enjoyed Looker's character in Pokemon and always got jittery whenever more content of him popped up. Sadly, I couldn't find much so doing what a fanfiction writer does best, I took matters into my own hands.

I tried to hint at it a little in the beginning, but without spoiling too much for what's down the road, the timeline of this story takes place in the Mega(?) timeline. The events of RBY and RSE have already taken place.

If there are any readers in here from my other story Spiral Divergence, then you will know I will say this could update in a month. But it could take until the end of 2022. I'm not planning on stopping that story anytime soon, but this idea kept annoying me so I decided to appease that itch.

If you have any questions, ideas, or just feeling like hanging out with other fanfiction enthusiasts, then head on over to the Fanfiction Treehouse Discord: discord .gg/9XG3U7a

Cheers and Happy New Year!