GOODBYE SINNOH TILL NEXT TIME

In the remote and enigmatic Arata region, a hidden laboratory sprawls across a desolate island, far removed from the hustle and bustle of cities and towns. This secretive facility serves as the clandestine headquarters for Team Phoenix, an enigmatic organization. But it's more than that; it's a clandestine gathering point for the nefarious elite of various regions. Here, notorious groups like Team Rocket, Team Flare, Macro Cosmos, Team Plasma, and Team Galactic converge for their covert council.

The tension in the room was palpable as the leaders of these villainous factions gathered. Suddenly, a hushed voice pierced the darkness, "Sorry I am late." The room fell silent as the figure materialized from the shadows, unveiling himself to the assembled leaders. For the first time, they laid eyes on this enigmatic character, a person shrouded in mystery and menace.

His long, obsidian hair framed a face marred by a tapestry of bruises, as if he had walked through a storm of conflict. But what truly sent shivers down their spines were his eyes, pale and lifeless as if they had glimpsed a realm beyond. Suspense hung in the air, and all eyes were drawn to a peculiar rhombus locket that hung around his neck, a symbol of unknown significance, leaving a lingering air of intrigue and foreboding in the room.

"Hahaha, fashionably late, as always," Lysandre's maniacal laughter echoed through the room, as he nonchalantly leaned against the wall.

"Hahaha, and here I thought Zygarde had turned you into history," Scarlet quipped with a smirk as he took a seat, clearly not anticipating Lysandre's presence.

Ghetsis emitted a displeased groan, his patience clearly wearing thin. "So, care to enlighten us, Scar, as to why the Arata region remains untamed in your grasp?"

Scarlet cleared his throat, his expression revealing the weight of his failures. "As you can see, my team and I were unsuccessful in our attempts to conquer the Arata region," he sighed.

Giovanni couldn't resist a sly smile, throwing Scarlet's excuse into question. "Yes, and by mere children, if I recall correctly."

Scarlet raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms defensively. "May I remind you, Giovanni, that one of those 'mere children' is the Arata region's Champion and an esteemed member of its Elite Four?"

Rose abruptly rose from his seat, his visage etched with frustration. "That's enough."

"Look, I didn't gather you here to revisit past defeats, but to discuss my new plan to bring an end to the Arata region," Rose interjected, attempting to change the subject.

Scarlet's body tensed, a visible distaste for Rose's words surfacing.

The Chairman paced around the table, his voice authoritative. "As you're well aware, the Arata region stands apart from the rest. It lacks its own Legendary Pokémon, yet it has endured numerous cataclysms through a mysterious power passed down through generations."

Lysandre nodded, his scarred face etched with grim understanding. "Indeed. Few are even aware of the Arata region's existence, which makes it the safest and most secretive region."

Scarlet scoffed, crossing his arms. "I wouldn't call it the safest anymore."

Ghetsis, pondering Chairman Rose's words, leaned forward. "This... mysterious power? What is it?"

Chairman Rose shrugged. "It's only a theory, but I suspect it's not a creature or a Pokémon protecting the Arata region, but rather a person—or perhaps a family."

The others exchanged curious glances, urging him to continue. Chairman Rose obliged. "I have a lead: the Eada family."

Giovanni echoed, "The Eada family?"

Scarlet elaborated, "They're an illustrious and influential family in the Arata region, renowned for their deep connection with Pokémon and mastery of martial arts. Their exceptional knowledge, financial prosperity, and pivotal role in the region's development have cemented their status. Their history is steeped in tradition and respect for the world's creatures."

Lysandre, stroking his chin, looked intrigued. "Interesting... the Eada family, huh?"

Chairman Rose continued, "According to my calculations, every child in the Eada family played a crucial role during the chaos Scarlet caused. One of them, Darius Eada, is the Champion of the Arata region."

Scarlet raised an eyebrow, suspicious. "I never mentioned that part."

Chairman Rose smirked, crossing his arms. "I have my ways, Scar."

Ghetsis noticed Cyrus's silence and chuckled. "What's the matter? Cat got your tongue? Had a rough week being defeated by mere children?"

Cyrus glared. "Shut your mouth before I shut it for you. And no, they weren't just children. The Sinnoh Champion was there."

Giovanni hummed, smirking. "Oh? Who are the children that defeated you this time?"

Cyrus sighed. "The woman with the crimson hair... she's back."

Ghetsis, Giovanni, and Lysandre exchanged shocked looks. They remembered the woman who once thwarted their plans, her crimson hair unmistakable. Scarlet, however, smirked evilly. "So... she's back and kicking more ass, huh?"

Lysandre sighed. "She's a real threat, her and that Zoroark of hers."

Suddenly, Scarlet addressed the other leaders. "Alright, discussion over." He turned to Chairman Rose. "Let's postpone the discussion of destroying the Arata region. So... are you and your people ready for the resurrection of the Darkest Day?"

Chairman Rose smirked. "They have no idea what's coming. It's time to give the Galar region a new future."

The gang was at the Pokémon Center, still in the Sinnoh region. The battlefield area was lively with activity as Charles helped Solar improve his battle skills by engaging in a double battle. Charles had brought out his Braviary and Diggersby, while Solar opted for his trusty Umbreon and Mudkip. As the two guys were absorbed in their practice match, Eclipse sat nearby, sketching in her notebook with focused intent.

Azalea approached Eclipse with a couple of drinks, catching a glimpse of the drawings in her notebook. It looked like Eclipse was designing a dress.

"Those are really nice sketches," Azalea remarked, genuinely impressed.

Eclipse, caught off guard, laughed nervously, "Hahaha, thank you."

Azalea took a seat beside her, handing over a drink. Together, they watched Solar and Charles continue their practice battle. Eclipse, ever the protective sister, called out, "Charles, try not to be too rough on him!"

Charles laughed, waving off her concern. "Don't worry, I'll go easy on him!"

After the match ended, the boys walked back over to the girls. Charles, still energized from the battle, casually mentioned, "Hey, I heard there's going to be a contest happening today." His gaze shifted to Eclipse, and with a playful tone, he teased, "Aren't you going to compete, Eclipse?"

Though he was only teasing, Eclipse's demeanor changed instantly. She stood up abruptly, her expression serious and her tone sharp. "No! As a matter of fact, I won't. And it's none of your business." Without another word, she turned and marched back inside the Pokémon Center, leaving Azalea and Charles stunned.

Solar, watching his sister storm off, muttered softly, "Oh, Eli..." His face reflected the concern he felt, understanding the weight of her sudden outburst.

Charles scratched the back of his head, bewildered. "Um...what just happened? That's the first time I've seen her so upset."

Azalea nodded in agreement. "Indeed."

Both of them looked to Solar for an explanation. With a heavy sigh, Solar replied, "You... kind of struck a nerve with my sister."

Charles blinked in surprise, his worry deepening. "I did? I didn't mean to."

Eclipse entered their resting room in the Pokémon Center, her footsteps heavy with frustration. She sat on her bed, exhaling a deep, weary sigh. Charles' teasing words had struck a nerve, triggering memories from her past that she had tried to bury.

"Hey Eclipse, shouldn't you become more of a coordinator or a performer? I mean, you are a girl, right?"

"Sweetheart, one of my friends asked if you'd like to compete in an upcoming contest. Would you be interested?"

"Wait, you want to sign up for the Pokémon League? Aren't you more of the type to be a coordinator or perform on stage?"

Those old words, spoken by other kids and even her own parents, echoed in her mind. Though they were memories from years ago, they still had the power to sting. The assumptions others made about her simply because she was a girl frustrated her to no end. Just because some girls preferred being coordinators or performers didn't mean she had to follow the same path.

Eclipse clenched her fists, feeling the weight of those expectations pressing down on her even now. She had worked hard to prove herself as a trainer, to show that she could stand alongside anyone in battle. But moments like these reminded her that the world wasn't always ready to see her as she wanted to be seen.

It wasn't Charles' fault; he hadn't meant to upset her. But his words had unintentionally pulled at the threads of a wound that had never fully healed. Eclipse sighed again, wishing she could shake off the frustration. But for now, she just needed a moment to herself, to push those old doubts and insecurities back where they belonged.

After taking a few moments to herself, Eclipse decided it was time to rejoin the others. She left the room, feeling a little lighter, and headed back to the main area of the Pokémon Center. As she approached, she saw Azalea, Charles, and her little brother Solar sitting around a table, food spread out before them.

Solar spotted her first and waved enthusiastically, his voice bright and cheerful. "Eli, come on, time to eat!"

Eclipse's expression softened, her earlier frustrations beginning to melt away. The warmth of her brother's smile and the sight of her friends waiting for her made her insecurities seem smaller, at least for the moment. She made her way over and took a seat at the table. Azalea, noticing her arrival, nudged Charles gently with her elbow.

Charles cleared his throat, his awkwardness evident as he attempted to find the right words. "Erm, Eclipse, about earlier..." He paused, clearly uncomfortable, scratching the back of his head as he struggled to apologize. "I... uh, I'm sorry if I upset you or made you mad."

Eclipse shook her head, offering a small smile to reassure him. "It's okay, really. Don't worry about it. I know you were just teasing."

Before Charles could respond, Solar interrupted with a playful whine. "I am starving! Can we eat now?"

Azalea chuckled, amused by his impatience. "Go ahead."

With that, the quartet dug into their meal, their Pokémon happily joining in. Azalea watched fondly as Solar's Umbreon and Mudkip shared a bowl of Pokémon food. Charles's Braviary and Diggersby each had their own bowls. Her Zoroark had transformed into a Zorua, eating from her own bowl.

After finishing their meal, the group began discussing their next destination. The excitement of planning another journey hung in the air like a buzz of energy, and each of them seemed to have their own ideas.

Charles was the first to speak up, his eyes lighting up with anticipation. "Can we go back to Galar? I really miss Sonia. Facetiming is fun and all, but seeing her in person and holding her in my arms is so much better."

Solar nodded eagerly as he petted his Mudkip, which was perched comfortably on his lap. "I do want to see Mr. Leon and Mr. Raihan too!"

Eclipse leaned back in her chair, humming thoughtfully as she rested her hand under her chin. "Talking about them, isn't there going to be a World Coordination Master Class battle soon?"

Solar's eyes sparkled with excitement at the mention of the event. "That's another great reason to go back to Galar!" He turned to Eclipse, and the two of them looked over at Azalea, their unspoken question clear. Charles joined in, all three of them waiting for her response.

Azalea let out a resigned sigh, shrugging her shoulders with a small smile. "Even if I said no, it's three against one anyway." She nodded, her decision made. "Alright, let's go back to Galar!"

Charles grinned, his excitement barely contained. "Great! I'll contact Sonia right away."

In the peaceful confines of Magnolia's Laboratory, Sonia was deeply engrossed in her research on the Darkest Day. The glow of her computer screen illuminated her focused expression as she pored over ancient texts and legends, searching for any new clues. The quiet hum of the lab was her only company—until her Rotom phone buzzed with a message.

"You received a message from Charles," the Rotom chirped.

Sonia's eyes lit up at the mention of her boyfriend. Her heart skipped a beat as she reached for her phone, eager to read what he had sent. As she opened the message, a warm smile spread across her face.

"Hey there, my love. My friends and I are heading back to Galar. I was wondering if we could stay at the lab while we're there? I think we've had enough of staying at hotels/motels for a while. Plus, I miss sleeping beside you in bed ;)"

Sonia blushed slightly at the last part, her mind drifting to the comfort of having Charles close. She quickly typed out a reply, her fingers flying across the screen.

"Of course. I can't wait to see you again. I sure do miss Azalea, Eclipse, and Solar as well! I'll contact my grandmother right away and let her know."

Charles's reply came almost instantly, and Sonia felt her heart swell as she read his words.

"Great, I'll see you soon. I love you, my dear."

With a smile tugging at her lips, Sonia typed her final response, her thoughts already drifting to their impending reunion.

"I love you too, Charles."

As she put down her phone, Sonia's thoughts lingered on the upcoming visit. She couldn't wait to welcome Charles and his friends back to Galar.

A/N: The Quartets finished their journey in Sinnoh(For now), where would their next journey be? We caught a glimpse of Eclipse's past as well. Which life will we know first? Eclipse or Charles ;) And we also find out who the leader of Team Phoenix, were you guys surprised from the beginning of the chapter, didn't see that coming did you?