Orion sits at his computer in the back office of Pokémon Home, the glow of the screen illuminating his face. He sips his tea while reviewing the analytics of his HeroTube videos. The numbers were definitely climbing. The battle between Harley and Ivy, Ms. Marvel and Squirrel Girl, were the most watched, but the comments are mixed.
"'This is just CGI, wake up sheeple!'" he reads aloud, chuckling.
"'Fake! Those Pokémon are way too perfect to be real,'" he continues, shaking his head.
"'The animation is top-notch, though. Props to the creators!'"
Orion sighs. While the views and subscribers were encouraging, they weren't translating into sales. Plenty of people come in excited, their eyes wide with wonder, but the lottery prices often deter them. Others try their luck in the Sanctuary, but, unable to connect with any Pokémon, leave disappointed.
Latias walks into the office. "Everything okay, Orion?"
"Yes, Latias," Orion replies, "just reviewing the publicity campaign. Things are progressing, but not as fast as I'd like. Sales are still low and not many people are able to get a Pokémon."
Pikachu, who had been napping on a nearby cushion, perks up his ears and chimes in with a cheerful, "Pika!"
"You think they need more time, Pikachu?" Orion asks, scratching Pikachu behind the ears. "Perhaps you are right."
"Are you getting used to working and living here, Latias?" Orion asks.
"Yes," Latias says, "Everyone here is so kind. But, I do miss the open sky."
"Don't worry," Orion says, "I'll make sure you get plenty of time to fly around. I'll even close up shop so you can enjoy it!"
Latias giggles, and Pikachu jumps off the table and runs to the front.
"Pika!" Pikachu says, pointing toward the door.
The bell above the entrance jingles, signaling the arrival of a new customer. Orion, Latias, and Pikachu exchange glances, a spark of hope flickering in their eyes.
"Another chance to spread the joy of Pokémon," Orion says, standing up straight and smoothing out his green and white tailcoat.
He follows Latias and Pikachu to the front of the store, a warm smile already gracing his lips.
Standing just inside the entrance is a young woman dressed in a stylish but practical manner. She's wearing a sleek black leather jacket, dark jeans, and sensible boots. Her fiery red hair is pulled back in a ponytail, and her blue eyes scan the surroundings with a sharp, intelligent gaze. She carries herself with a quiet confidence, a sense of purpose that even casual clothes can't hide.
"Welcome to Pokémon Home!" Orion says, his voice ringing with genuine enthusiasm. "I'm Orion Oak, you can call me Owner, and this is my assistant, Latias."
Latias offers a gentle smile and a small wave. "Welcome," she says softly.
Pikachu, perched on the counter, chimes in with a cheerful, "Pika pika!"
The woman smiles back, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Thank you. I'm Barbara Gordon."
Orion feels a jolt of recognition, his mind instantly connecting the name with the face. Barbara Gordon… Batgirl. He schools his expression, careful not to reveal his knowledge. It wouldn't do to startle her. He had no idea why Batgirl was in Pokémon Home. Be respectful, and let her reveal her intentions.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Gordon," Orion says, extending a hand. "What brings you to Pokémon Home today?"
Barbara shakes his hand, her grip firm and steady. "I saw your videos online," she says, gesturing around the store. "I have to admit, I was… intrigued. I wanted to see it for myself."
"Intrigued?" Orion raises an eyebrow, a playful glint in his eyes. "Is that all? I thought everyone was instantly captivated by the wonderful world of Pokémon!"
Barbara chuckles. "Let's just say I'm a bit of a skeptic. But I'm open to being convinced."
"Excellent!" Orion exclaims, clapping his hands together. "Then let me give you the grand tour. I can tell you all about Pokémon Home."
He launches into his usual spiel, explaining the store's purpose and operations, highlighting the Sanctuary and its commitment to Pokémon welfare. He emphasizes that Pokémon aren't just pets or commodities but intelligent and capable partners.
"We believe in fostering a world where humans and Pokémon can coexist in harmony," Orion says, his voice sincere. "And that starts with understanding and respect."
Barbara listens intently, her eyes darting around, taking in every detail. She asks questions about the different Pokémon, their abilities, and their relationships with humans. She also makes sure to ask how to convince a Pokemon to become partners.
"So, if someone wanted to, say, partner with a Pokémon," Barbara asks, "how would they go about doing that?"
"There are two ways," Orion explains. "The first is through our lottery system, where you have a chance to be matched with a Pokémon that is a good fit for you. But, if you want to do it the natural way, is to try and befriend one in our Sanctuary."
"And how do you convince a Pokémon to become your partner?" Barbara presses, her gaze steady.
"It's not about convincing," Orion says, his tone gentle. "It's about connecting. Showing them that you are someone they can trust, someone who will respect them and care for them. Pokémon are very intuitive creatures. They can sense your intentions, your emotions. Approach them with kindness, patience, and an open heart, and you might be surprised at the bonds you can forge."
Barbara nods slowly, absorbing his words. "I see," she says. "And this 'Sanctuary'… that's where people can meet these Pokémon?"
"Indeed," Orion replies, gesturing towards the shimmering portal. "It's a place where Pokémon roam freely, living as they would in their natural habitats. A place of peace, trust, and boundless possibility. Would you like to see it?"
Barbara's eyes light up with genuine curiosity. "I would," she says.
"Excellent!" Orion exclaims, clapping his hands together. "Then let's not keep you waiting."
He turns towards the portal, Pikachu hopping onto his shoulder for the ride. "Latias, would you mind watching the front?"
"Of course, Owner," Latias says with a smile. "Have fun, you two."
Orion winks at Latias before turning back to Barbara. "Ready to step into another world, Ms. Gordon?"
Barbara returns his smile, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Ready when you are, Owner."
Orion steps through the shimmering portal, Pikachu chattering excitedly on his shoulder. Barbara takes a deep breath and follows, her senses on high alert.
As she steps through the portal, Barbara is immediately struck by the beauty and serenity of the Sanctuary. The air is fresh and clean, filled with the sounds of birds chirping and leaves rustling. Sunlight streams through the canopy of trees, illuminating a lush, green landscape dotted with sparkling streams and colorful flowers.
Diverse Pokémon roam freely, grazing in meadows, splashing in ponds, and flitting through the air. She marvels at the sight of Pidgeys soaring overhead, Oddish huddled together in small groups, and Poliwags swimming in a nearby pond.
She approaches a small cluster of Bellsprout, who regard her with wide, curious eyes. She crouches down, offering them a gentle smile. One of the Bellsprout cautiously extends a vine, touching her hand.
"Amazing," Barbara whispers, her voice filled with wonder.
As she explores the Sanctuary, Barbara discreetly activates a small recording device hidden in her jacket pocket. She needs to document everything for Batman and the others.
This place… it's incredible, she thinks to herself. But how is it possible? How can this exist inside a store? Is it black technology? Alien? The Owner did say that Pokemon came from another dimension.
She continues her exploration, carefully observing everything she sees.
After a while, Barbara wanders into a dense forest, the sunlight filtering through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The air is thick with the scent of pine and damp earth.
Suddenly, she comes face-to-face with a Beedrill. The Pokémon is large, and menacing, with three stingers.
Barbara freezes, her heart pounding in her chest. She and the Beedrill lock eyes, the air thick with tension.
***
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