While the teens all geeked out over their new gear and debated who would battle who first, the professor pulled Rory aside. Glancing back at the group, Cypress made sure they weren't paying attention before he began to speak in a hushed tone. 

[color=39b54a]"I'm placing these three in your care, Rory. You know better than anyone just how dangerous this region can be. I trust you'll be able to keep up with them and ensure the research goes smoothly?"[/color]

[color=0054a6]"Of course, Professor,"[/color] Rory replied. As he spoke, he reached down and began to gently rub Floatzel's head. [color=0054a6]"You've been planning this for the last several years of your career. I know how much this expedition means for you and your career. Don't worry. Floatzel and I will make sure those kids are prepared for what lies ahead."[/color] Cypress nodded and cocked his head as he saw only one other Pokeball attached to Rory's belt.

[color=39b54a]"Only two partners going with you this time then?"[/color] Rory followed Cypress' gaze and patted the ball with his free hand. 

[color=0054a6]"No need to worry. Between this one and Floatzel I should be able to handle just about anything on the early routes."[/color] In response, Floatzel barked his approval and flexed an arm like he'd seen Rory do countless times when they started their journey together. Cypress laughed and patted the weasel on the head. 

[color=39b54a]"You always were eager to show off weren't you? Alright then. Your first stop will be Hesperus City. I imagine they'll want to stop and capture a few new Pokémon outside Mercer, so keep that in mind. The jeep is gassed up and ready to go."[/color] Tossing Rory a set of keys, the professor gave him a thumbs up as Rory turned towards the door to the lab. George, Argen, and Orianna had all gathered outside while Devastator and Chomper were already engaged in a battle. From the looks of things, George had the upper hand thanks to Bagon's wider movepool. Raising his DexWatch, Rory scanned Chomper through the window and saw that it only had access to Sand-Attack and Tackle, giving it a clear disadvantage. He was about to join them outside when the DexWatch beeped, signaling that Chomper had just learned a new move: Dragon Rage. 

[color=0054a6]"Oh no... Um, we may want to address that,"[/color] said Rory as he frantically made a move for the door. Immature dragon-types hardly ever controlled a Dragon Rage on their first attempt. 

[@Crimson Flame] [@LuckyBlackCat] [@Such A Birch]