Silas had no intention of challenging Lucian's authority.
After witnessing the oppressive aura of that Gengar, even the twin brothers fell silent. Their expressions darkened as they realized the gap between them.
They had only wanted to secure more influence within the team, but now it was clear– strength decided everything here.
Even their Nidoking and Nidoqueen showed faint signs of fear.
Their earlier probing had been meaningless.
Just as the atmosphere grew tense, Lucian suddenly smiled. His deep gaze swept across all four of them.
"I don't care which base you came from," he said calmly. "Once you're in my squad, you follow my orders."
"In the next month, I'll take you to a special location for intensive training. You will improve quickly."
"This mission cannot fail."
His tone was steady, but the pressure behind it was undeniable. With Gengar silently hovering beside him, the twins no longer dared to speak out of turn.
...
The group soon headed toward the core area of Team Rocket's base.
Security became increasingly strict as they moved forward. Multiple checkpoints, guards, and inspections awaited them. Even as Platoon Leaders, they were still thoroughly examined at every stage.
Eventually, they stopped before a pure white building.
Two large words were engraved above the entrance:
Research Center
Lucian turned slightly and spoke in a low voice, "Watch what you say inside. The people here are top researchers. Their tempers aren't good."
"If you offend anyone, I won't be able to protect you."
This time, even the twins remained quiet.
After a brief exchange with the guards, Lucian led them inside.
Silas took the opportunity to observe his surroundings.
The guards stationed at the entrance were each accompanied by Pokémon–one with a Weezing, the other with an Arbok. Both Pokémon radiated the aura of Elite-level strength.
Using elite trainers as guards… only Team Rocket could afford such extravagance.
At the same time, Silas couldn't help but grow curious about the research happening inside.
....
Inside the Research Center
The moment they entered, a strange scent lingered in the air.
It wasn't unpleasant, but it felt artificial.
As they walked through the corridors, they passed numerous laboratories filled with complex instruments. Researchers in white and green coats worked tirelessly, completely immersed in their tasks.
No one paid attention to them.
"Lord Lucian," Rose said softly as she stepped closer, "weren't we here to collect equipment? Why are we in the research center?"
Lucian frowned slightly and pushed her slightly back without hesitation.
"You'll know when we get there."
His tone made it clear–he wasn't fond of her approach and he clearly didn't appreciate unnecessary questions.
Soon, they arrived before a reinforced metal door.
Knock. Knock.
After a brief knock, it opened.
Inside was a much larger laboratory, far more advanced than the ones outside. The density of equipment and researchers here was on an entirely different level.
At the center stood a man with a distinctive mushroom-like hairstyle.
Lucian stepped forward respectfully.
"Dr. Sebastian, I've come under Lord Archer's orders to collect the latest combat equipment."
The man didn't even glance at them.
His attention remained fixed on the data displayed before him.
With a casual wave of his hand, he signaled for the assistants to handle them.
The moment Silas heard that name, his thoughts sharpened.
Dr. Sebastian.
A core scientist within Team Rocket.
In his past life's knowledge, this man had been deeply involved in dangerous experiments—most notably the Red Gyarados project. Rumors even suggested involvement in operations targeting Legendary Pokémon.
A dangerous individual.
Silas instinctively lowered his presence.
....
Equipment Testing
They were led to a large transparent display chamber.
Inside, several sets of equipment were neatly arranged.
High-tech combat suits.
An assistant began explaining enthusiastically.
"This combat suit is the result of three years of research. It can withstand attacks from peak Elite-level Pokémon without sustaining damage."
"It is waterproof, fireproof, and insulated against electricity."
"It can function in extreme environments,whether deep underwater under immense pressure or inside volcanic regions."
"It also includes additional features such as night vision, storage space, and an energy shield system."
The assistant spoke as if the suit was flawless.
But this time, Silas didn't doubt it.
Instead, he felt a quiet shock.
So this world's technological level had already reached this point…
If Team Rocket possessed such advancements, then the Pokémon League certainly wasn't far behind,they were simply hidden from the public.
After verifying their identities, each of them received a combat suit.
The suit appeared simple at first glance—blue and white, resembling an ordinary coat.
But the moment Silas put it on, it adjusted instantly to his body.
Perfect fit.
A pair of transparent lenses extended from the sides, displaying streams of data directly in his vision.
At the same time, multiple control buttons appeared along his arms.
Weapons.
Defense systems.
Utility functions.
"W-What is this?!"
Rose suddenly cried out.
She had pressed one of the buttons ,A beam of energy shot out instantly.
Boom!
It struck the wall, leaving behind a deep hole.
Everyone froze for a moment.
Silas narrowed his eyes.
'That level of power… it's already approaching an Elite Pokémon's full-powered attack but it's unstable, and far from something that can be used freely.'
For the first time, he truly understood the terrifying potential of technological weapons in this world.
....
Departure
The group spent some time familiarizing themselves with the suits.
With the help of nearby researchers, they gradually learned how to operate them properly.
Lucian finally spoke, "That's enough. We're leaving."
"Don't interfere with their work."
As they exited the laboratory, Silas instinctively glanced back.
At that exact moment ,Dr. Sebastian lifted his head.
Their eyes met.
Only for a brief second.
Silas immediately looked away, his expression calm, as if nothing had happened.
Then he followed the group out of the Research Center.
<><><><><><>
(End of chapter)