Four days later, Aoki arrived in Goldenrod City within the Johto region. Though the trade conference wouldn't begin until tomorrow, the normally relaxed citizens of Goldenrod moved with hurried purpose - completing their business before quickly returning home. While most residents remained unaware of the underground dealings occurring in their city, the palpable tension in the air put everyone on edge.
Occasionally, unfamiliar faces could be seen walking the streets, their foreign attire marking them as outsiders from other regions. These interlopers drew curious glances from locals as they went about their business. Representatives from various underground organizations across the Pokémon world had gathered to participate in this event.
Every luxury hotel in Goldenrod had been fully booked for weeks, demonstrating the immense influence of Team Rocket's cross-regional trade conference. The scale of transactions occurring here was staggering - with sufficient wealth and power, one could acquire even rare pseudo-legendary Pokémon. Of course, maintaining possession of such valuable assets after purchase required considerable strength as well.
Aoki secured lodging at a modest inn before carefully altering his appearance. While revealing his true identity would grant him immediate access to Team Rocket's inner circles - his position as a captain and near-Champion level strength ensuring significant influence at the conference - maintaining distance from the organization was crucial. As a double agent, he needed to balance both sides carefully.
Many within Team Rocket already harbored resentment toward Aoki. If they discovered his league-sanctioned mission to investigate their activities, complications would arise. Though Giovanni likely wouldn't concern himself with such matters, Aoki couldn't afford to take chances. His current disguise allowed just enough recognition by league observers while keeping his identity concealed from Rocket operatives.
After completing his preparations, Aoki proceeded to the location specified in his mission briefing where an entire team of league investigators awaited his command. As a senior investigator, standard protocol dictated he should oversee at least three mid-level investigators, each managing three junior investigators. However, exceptions existed - some senior investigators like Aoki and Steven often operated without subordinates, as their positions were largely honorary.
The unassuming Pokémon supply store Aoki entered served as one of the league's hidden bases in Goldenrod. After presenting his credentials to the clerk, he descended into the concealed underground facility where sixteen investigators stood at attention - four mid-level and twelve junior operatives. Though initially uncertain of Aoki's identity, they snapped to attention upon seeing his senior investigator badge.
"Ahem, hello everyone," Aoki began. "I'm Senior Investigator Aoki. We'll be working together for this operation." The team responded with immediate respect, several members regarding the young but accomplished investigator with admiration. Senior investigator status represented the career pinnacle many hoped to achieve.
After reviewing mission parameters, Aoki issued his first command: "You have five minutes to change into civilian attire and remove all league identifiers." The team moved with military precision, completing the task within the allotted time. Aoki nodded approvingly - their discipline and field readiness met his standards.
"From this moment forward, you will assume identities as underground operatives," Aoki instructed. "Pair up and begin reconnaissance of Goldenrod's black market sectors. Document all activity and potential transactions, then regroup here this evening."
It is much more convenient to have a group of people to investigate the situation for you. At least if you want to buy something, you don't have to go around one by one.
Aoki rubbed his chin as he thought.
Well, these people are still somewhat useful, I take back my previous thoughts. ʀᴇᴀᴅ ʟᴀᴛᴇsᴛ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs ᴀᴛ novｅlfire.net