if it ain't broke; break it

[ VIDEO ]

[ Cliff's been busy lately, what with trekking to Goldenrod and watching Ironhide kick everyone's butts the tournament, and he really hasn't been watching the network like he should. But now that things have slowed down, he and Ironhide have settled into Goldenrod, ready to stay there for a while. The video clicks on to show Cliff at the Pokémon Center. He smirks ]

That was a pretty good romp. If there's a tournament next year, sign me up. I'll show you all I'm made of sterner stuff than that.

By the way- Will, I want a rematch one of these--

Excuse me?

[ Cliff turns to face the nurse behind the counter ] Hm?

Are you Mister Cliffjumper?

Yeah, why?

This is for you. I also have one for a Mister Ironhide, but it looks like I can give it to you for him. [ the nurse hands over two pokéballs, and Cliff takes them with a mildly confused expression ]

... Thanks.

[ He wanders away from the counter, whatever message he intended to send completely forgotten. The realeases the two pokémon from their balls and...



He frowns deeply as his 'Dex pings at him. ]

Cordon? Evangeline? What are you guys---

...

Damn it, Charlotte.

[ He suddenly remembers the 'Gear, and the feed ends there ]


[ ACTION ]

[ Cliff can be found just outside of the Center on a bench somewhere, Cordon the Swablu nestled in his lap. He absently strokes the little bird's feathers, looking oddly distant.

Come say hi? ]