Iris went up as a challenger was going through. Max was currently fighting them, so they waited in Kellyn's cave for the fight to close up. The challenger apparently lost, resulting in them storming out. Max stepped out of his cave, adjusting his helmet. They joined him as he paused.

"They were crying like they lost their life in that battle. Nonsense." He then sighed as he turned to the visiting Champion. "You here for me?"

"Yeah... is there somewhere we can talk?" Thana smiled as she poked her head into Paul's cave. There was a brief conversation before Ashley smiled.

"Let me lead you somewhere."

~

They were led to a cave that Ash had set up for this. Max took off the helmet with the visors before getting his glasses on. Thana brought in some drinks before signing to Max that they would be outside. Upon the contest star leaving, Iris got right to the point.

"Why'd you fake your death?" Max hummed as he sat down across from her.

"I can't give the full details... but I will say it was for personal reasons." Iris hummed as he rubbed his face. "Not everything has been bad. I learned my fighting style and am able to figure things out without pressure. My dad also likes the opportunity." Iris frowned.

"Your dad's involved in this plan, but not your sister?"

"Personal reasons." Her frowned deepened as Thana poked her head in.

"I apologize for interrupting. Massimo, you have someone here for you." He nodded to her as she stepped out. Iris quickly spoke as he stood up.

"Real quick... Why stay hidden behind a fake identity when people know who you really are?" Max hummed as he cleaned his glasses.

"Massimo is the name in the papers for the Kanto League. I don't plan on changing it anytime soon." He then excused himself as he stepped out. She followed, spotting Norman with a package. They exchanged a few words before the Gym Leader left and Max slipped into his cave. Tricky.

~

"It's annoying."

Iris hummed as she and May watched the sunset in Lilycove Harbor. May was fairly quiet at the news, but to be fair, Max has avoided many questions. Her dad did the same thing.

"Was... it something I did?"

"I doubt it. But I don't know." May fell silent again as Iris glanced at her. "We'll figure it out. I'm going to Dawn to target Kellyn next. We'll figure it out."