"Keep it within reason. Don't go overboard."
Giovanni spoke with a faint smile, though Damian's grand ambitions didn't exactly comfort him; in fact, he felt a headache coming on. He knew the current Damian all too well: proud, conceited, flashy, and prone to reckless behavior.
He was genuinely concerned that Damian would stir up too much trouble in Alola and end up drawing the League's ire.
"Haha... Dad, don't worry. I'll be careful."
Damian flashed an innocent, bashful smile. Judging solely by his looks, he was indeed very deceptive.
"By the way, old man, why not let Matori come with me? She's highly capable, and I need someone of her caliber."
"???"
...
Saffron City—the largest and most prosperous metropolis in Kanto, its fame reaching even the most distant lands. The "Saffron" in its name referred to the brilliant, shimmering glow of gold, a reputation that spoke for itself.
The following day, Damian arrived at the Saffron City airport. Next stop: Alola.
"Sir."
As soon as Damian reached the entrance, two figures stepped forward to greet him.
"Proton, Domino, long time no see."
Damian greeted them with a smile. These were the subordinates Giovanni had arranged for him.
"It has been exactly six months and nine days. Congratulations, sir, on winning the Indigo League," Proton replied with a polite, courteous smile.
Proton was a handsome young man with short green hair and fair skin, carrying a slightly sinister aura. Among Team Rocket's Executives, Proton truly stood out—strictly in terms of aesthetics, at least.
After all, the appearances of Archer, Ariana, and Petrel weren't exactly worth writing home about. As a high-ranking executive, Proton's strength wasn't lacking, though he sat at the lower end of the Elite Four tier.
Beside him, Domino smiled. Dressed in a form-fitting black dress that accentuated her curves, she had long, wavy blonde hair and a beautiful face. She was the executive known as the "Black Tulip."
While her skills as a trainer were average, she was an expert agent specializing in intelligence; her true value lay elsewhere.
"The other members have already departed from various airports. All meeting points have been established."
"Excellent. With you assisting me, Proton, I feel much more at ease."
Damian patted Proton on the shoulder, clearly pleased. Although Proton wasn't as versatile as Archer, he was undeniably talented. Having him around would save Damian a lot of trouble.
"That old man... I'm out here expanding his territory, and he's being this stingy with personnel," Damian grumbled.
The original agreement was for Proton plus several other executives. In the end, Domino was the only other high-ranking officer assigned.
Giovanni's excuse was that he simply couldn't spare anyone else in Kanto. Domino had even resigned from her public cover as a researcher just to be assigned to Damian's team.
"..."
Proton gave a dry laugh. In truth, he was quite happy to follow Damian to Alola. Everything in Kanto was already established, and the daily management had become monotonous.
Going to Alola to conquer new territory was far more exciting.
Domino didn't dare utter a word. One was the Boss's son and the other was a top executive—what could a mid-level intelligence officer like her say?
Especially when the boss's son was complaining about his father; it was best to stay quiet.
"Alright, let's head inside. To Alola."
"Yes, sir."
"By the way, I don't like attracting too much attention in public. Stop calling me 'sir' so loud—just keep it low and simple. Call me Damian."
"Yes, Damian."
"Good. I like the spirit. Let's move!"
The Alola region is world-renowned as a premier tourist destination, famous for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters. With its warm climate and abundant resources, it radiated a "tropical flavor" at every turn.
From coconut trees and pineapple juice to hibiscus shirts and beach competitions, the island vibes were everywhere. Whether for vacation or adventure, it was a place worth visiting. The only downside was that Alola had not yet established its own Pokémon League.
Melemele Island, Hau'oli City Airport.
"My, my~ This sunshine is incredible, and the sea breeze smells great too."
Stepping out of the airport, Damian took off his sunglasses and stretched. The long flight had left his muscles feeling stiff. He looked toward the horizon, where the deep blue of the ocean met a flawless sky.
Hau'oli City was bustling; it was the most famous coastal hub on Melemele Island.
"Let's go. We'll eat first, then discuss the plan."
Damian led Proton and Domino to a renowned local restaurant and booked a private room.
"Damian, I've received word that the first wave of members has arrived in Alola," Proton reported once they were settled.
"Good. Proton, send someone to acquire some land. I also want you to buy a shopping mall outright and renovate it." Damian nodded.
"Turn it into an entertainment hub. You're familiar with that line of work, right?"
Although they had brought significant funds, they needed to establish profitable industries quickly. Times had changed; Team Rocket supported a massive headcount and needed legitimate businesses to generate and launder revenue.
Their philosophy remained the same: use Pokémon to secure massive profits and, eventually, rule the world.
"Understood," Proton replied. He had managed the Celadon Game Corner for a time, so he knew exactly what was required.
"Now for the main topic. Domino." Damian turned his gaze toward her. "Take your team and gather intelligence. Team Skull and the Aether Foundation are our top priorities."
"For now, focus on Team Skull. As the newcomers in town, it's only polite that we say hello to our 'colleagues'."
A malicious smirk curled at the corner of Damian's mouth.
"Don't worry, Damian. I'll handle it immediately," Domino nodded.
"Don't be so stiff; I trust your abilities." Damian smiled and took a sip of pure pineapple juice; the quality was indeed top-tier.
"We've only just arrived," Proton said after a moment of hesitation. "Is it wise to go looking for trouble with Team Skull right away?"
"Proton, we are guests here. If we plan to take over their territory, we have to introduce ourselves. Besides..." Damian made no effort to hide his disdain.
"This 'Team Skull' is just a bunch of thugs led by a loser. They're trash."
"Don't worry. Once we locate their base, the organization known as Team Skull will cease to exist in Alola."