The target of the International Criminal Police this time is the Plasma Team's P2 Laboratory.
Who said the Unova Region is doing nothing?
They're just waiting for the right timing.
The overall commander of this operation, Lira, was assigning tasks before the mission began.
"Here is the rough map and division of the P2 Laboratory, the focus being these black unknown areas."
Lira pointed at a somewhat rough, not very precise map displayed on the screen.
At a glance, it was clear that it was a sketch drawn casually by someone.
However, it divided each floor, each section with numbers, and simply noted the primary functions of these areas.
But having such a map is obviously much better for the entire operation.
At least they don't have to wander in blindly.
"There are two objectives for this mission."
Lira extended two slender fingers.
"First, to back up the data from their computers without excessively alerting the Plasma Team and raising their suspicions. This will become the most crucial and favorable evidence."
One of the goals of the mission is to qualify some of the Plasma Team's actions, so making this the primary target is unquestionable.
"Originally, this task required Dr. Cypress's help, as she's the best at identifying this research content."
"But considering Dr. Cypress isn't skilled in combat, plus Mr. Natsuhiko's arrival, this task is assigned to Natsuhiko, and everyone else fully supports him."
Lira announced the allocation for the first task.
Natsuhiko: "..."
He looked "resentfully" at Lance.
Wasn't it said to be risk-free?
Lance gave a reassuring look, whispering, "Rest assured, anyone who wants to threaten you has to step over my dead body first."
Natsuhiko rolled his eyes.
I trust you about as far as I can throw you.
Also, don't jinx it!
Last time at Severe Mountain, you said the same thing.
In the end, you charged ahead recklessly, and it was Natsuhiko who ended up saving you.
Though, to be fair, his effort to create time for Natsuhiko to escape was a bit moving.
But if Natsuhiko could really and comfortably walk away leaving Lance behind, how would he face anyone in the future?
Has anyone ever clung to a thigh only to sell it out?
Fortunately, this time it's not just Lance; there are many from the International Criminal Police Department as well.
While the P2 Laboratory is important to the Plasma Team, there shouldn't be too many executive-level members there.
At the very worst,
there's Lira, the Battle Tower's big kahuna, and even the highest executives of the Plasma Team can't match her.
There is a certain level of security guaranteed.
The biggest challenge is to obtain the data without alerting the Plasma Team. If they alarm the team and they destroy the data, this mission cannot be considered successful.
"Second, attempt to capture this person."
The screen switched, projecting an image of a researcher with a gentle smile.
"Colress, once a student at Unova's Highest Pokémon Academy. After graduation, he became a researcher dedicated to Pokémon enhancement studies. However, due to his extreme methods, he was ultimately dismissed from the research institute and disappeared for years, only to join the Plasma Team and gain considerable authority." Lira introduced.
"This task is assigned to your team, Kalent."
"Understood." Kalent immediately stood up and responded.
"But remember, all actions are to serve the first objective."
"Understood!"
The people seated nearby all stood up in response.
...
Natsuhiko, Lance, and the International Criminal Police cohorts were crouched amidst dense bushes, gazing at the large lab looming in the forest depths not far away.
What they could see was just a small part of the laboratory.
According to the map sent by their infiltrators inside the International Criminal Police, the underground part of the laboratory is its core.
Clink—
With a soft, subtle sound, a side door of the laboratory slowly opened.
A member of the Plasma Team, after ensuring no one was paying attention, quickly walked in their direction.
Kalent stood up and ushered him in.
"Handsome Guy, how's the situation?" Kalent couldn't help but ask.
This man, codenamed "Handsome Guy," was a member of the International Criminal Police.
He was primarily responsible for infiltration and capturing high-profile criminals and was a notably skilled member within the International Criminal Police.
His forte was disguise.
"For some unknown reason in recent days, many people have left the laboratory, which is why I notified you. This is the best opportunity."
Handsome Guy glanced over everyone and finally rested his gaze on Natsuhiko.
"I never expected Mr. Natsuhiko to be part of this mission. I'm a fan of yours."
Natsuhiko rubbed his nose.
Great.
This has become the usual phrase when meeting him.
"Handsome Guy, focus on the mission." Kalent couldn't help but remind him.
"Right, right."
With that, he took out two sets of Plasma Team uniforms, "Resources are limited; I could only get two sets."
This meant, for the mission, only two people were to enter for now.
As Natsuhiko was primarily responsible for the first task, he was definitely going in, leaving one other set...
"I'll go." Lance volunteered, "With Natsuhiko, even if discovered, we have enough skill to escape."
"Let him go." Natsuhiko also said.
He wasn't acquainted with the International Criminal Police crew; if only a few were going in, it'd be safer with Lance.