I froze up. Something was wrong… I couldn’t put my finger on it. I looked down and saw Tech standing proudly, slowly waving the team flag. Our flag was a simple design that we got from some government-issued Operation Arctic Chill supplies. It was originally the spare side of a nylon tent, and was one of the few materials we were able to salvage from the Seafoam Island site. The flag consists of the black Articuno profile design from the OAC logo superimposed on an azure background. Two triangular, deep crimson beams reach from the corner across the flag. The whole construct was a rectangle about three feet by five feet mounted on a long steel pole. Tech bore the flag, and I had a full complement of war paint.

Something was clearly missing. I scanned the battle platform, but everything was in working order. The warm sun heated the back of my neck as I briefly examined the HUD. The black digital text displayed everything properly. All three of the Pokeballs I brought to the battle were firmly in their sockets—Leviathan’s had returned to my hand earlier. Sunlight refracted off the surface of the white and silver metal structure. The sea of onlookers sat transfixed as a moment of silence descended on the arena.

Their signs waved more slowly. I realized what was wrong. Heather should have been here around an hour ago, before the match. No one had seen her at all. Terrible possibilities flashed through my mind, all of government involvement in her disappearance. My concentration was shattered. All thoughts of the battle were replaced by an overwhelming desire to be with Heather. I wanted to go find her, but I couldn’t leave the match! My frustration erupted into wrath as I turned my attention back to the battle. Jim hadn’t renewed his attack… maybe he was pondering why I had stalled. Roaring in frustration, I wheeled around and faced him. I pointed accusingly and prepared to issue the final command. “DANVERS!” I shouted. “I WILL CRUSH YOUR SOUL!!!!” It was time to end this battle now!

Page Eleven
Page Eleven

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