Eight Birds of Paradise Singing

The 'Gear clicks on to what is becoming an alarmingly regular sight - that of Ise Nanao being set upon by hordes of Pokemon. However, this time instead of Sentrets or Weedle or Bellsprouts or those goddamned Zubats, a collection of Jigglypuff were eagerly watching every move she made.

"You have got to be kidding me." A flash of light, and then a rather large Poliwag with a crown-shaped rock perched jauntily bounced out onto the snow. Nanao gestured at the pink fluffballs, and Sentarou sprang into action. Hanatarou slapped down any that got too close, and kept a wary eye on her far too pale trainer.

"Go for it, Sentarou! Use Body Slam!" She may look a few steps from unconsciousness, but Ise was stronger than that - she had to be. Her hand went to her belt, to a strange new ball. Bare fingers stroked over the smooth surface in thought, but eventually decided against it, as Jyuushirou, Kiyone and Sentarou systematically reduced the numbers of the Jigglypuff away down to nought.

"Maybe next time, Byakuya..." She started forward again, eccentric mix of clothes fluttering in the faint persistent breeze, returning her other Pokemon to their balls. "Good job, guys, you've clearly learnt a lot." Soon, she stood there by herself, a lone, swaying figure in a wintry landscape. She kept speaking as she moved forward, addressing the 'Gear.

"Apologies, everyone, for having been out of touch. I have been... busy traveling and training, and it seems to have finally paid off. France, I should be in Goldenrod in a bit more than five days, if my past travel times are any indication. And Captain, yes, I am fine." She looks off towards the sea, and even when she looks back, her gaze is distant, as if she's seeing things that aren't quite there.

"I have one question: Has anyone else dreamt that they've been home when they've gone to sleep?"