Become Team Rocket executives?
That was a path Plumeria had never imagined.
Proton, however, shot the two of them a measuring look. Guzma was one thing—but Plumeria, too?
It wasn't that Proton doubted Damian's eye—ordinary admins were one thing, but "executive" wasn't a title you just handed out.
But Damian knew Plumeria absolutely qualified. Her raw Trainer talent wasn't top-tier, sure—but that depends on who you compare her to.
Against a game-protagonist-level prodigy who hits Champion-tier in a year? Of course not. But compared to normal Trainers, she was more than fine.
In the games, after Team Skull disbanded, Plumeria focused on raising Pokémon and challenged the Alola League—she even made it to the protagonist.
Plus, Plumeria's management skills were solid. She'd kept the chaotic, scattered Team Skull in line—no small feat.
"If we join your Team Rocket, the League will put out warrants for us next, won't they?"
Seeing Guzma still silent, Plumeria spoke in a low voice. She didn't like these people.
And Team Skull was one thing—bullying Alola's backyard—but Team Rocket was different. Team Rocket was an evil organization openly wanted by the Pokémon League.
"Listen to yourself," Damian said with a laugh.
"Miss Plumeria, humor me—how different do you really think Team Skull's ways are from Team Rocket's?"
He rolled a Poké Ball in his hand and looked at her.
Plumeria frowned, about to rebut.
"We might be an evil team, but times have changed. We've ditched a lot of the old bad habits and started moving upmarket."
"We barely snatch random Trainers' Pokémon anymore. We run our own ranches and raise our own Pokémon from the egg."
"And you? Across Alola's islands, your Team Skull punks are still out there causing trouble."
Damian almost laughed.
"Alola hasn't founded a League yet, but once the Alola League is up, the first operation is chopping Team Skull down."
"…"
Plumeria had no comeback.
"Joining Team Rocket isn't a bad deal for you, either. I can tell you both have ability. Instead of rotting away with Team Skull and getting tossed in a League cell, why not build something with us?"
Damian looked at the two.
"As long as you work for the organization, there'll be a place for you in Alola's management. And your original subordinates? You can keep leading them."
"Believe me—your future shouldn't be in a dump like this."
He glanced around the messy, shabby room.
"People need goals—not to drift through life. You both have ability, so I hope you think this through."
He was giving them a lot of face. In Team Skull, only these two were truly useful.
If he could recruit them, he would.
Plumeria stayed quiet, while Guzma's eyes kept flickering.
After a long silence, Guzma finally spoke.
"Big bad me… joins!!"
He growled the words. Yes—he chose to join!
"…" Plumeria stared at Guzma in surprise.
Damian beamed and clapped for Guzma.
"A wise choice, Sir Guzma. Today is a brand-new start."
"Power, money, women—or fame. Whatever you want, you'll have it."
Damian smiled.
"I don't want any of that," Guzma rumbled.
Damian had listed common desires—but Guzma didn't need them.
He wanted proof.
Failing the Captain trial had always been Guzma's thorn. He wanted to prove to everyone that Guzma had what it took.
Why did the prideful, hot-headed Guzma work for Lusamine in the games? He said it himself: because Lusamine acknowledged his ability.
That was why he followed her.
"Of course—whatever you want. When we control Alola's underworld, we'll be the Kings of the underworld."
Damian understood Guzma perfectly.
"Kings of the underworld… sounds fun." Guzma bared a feral grin.
Yeah—Guzma would be king of Alola's underworld.
He'd make those who looked down on him watch his rise.
"And you, Miss Plumeria?" Damian looked to her.
"…"
Plumeria shot Guzma a complicated glance.
"Plumeria, don't worry about me. Decide for yourself," Guzma said, voice low.
"I… still want to look after those idiots. Lord Damian, I'm willing to join Team Rocket too—but please don't hurt any Team Skull members who don't want to join. Is that acceptable?"
Plumeria hesitated, then asked Damian.
"Of course." Damian stood and offered them both his hand.
He hadn't cared much about the average Team Skull grunt anyway. With Guzma and Plumeria leading, most of them would join.
Those who wouldn't? Let them go.
He'd planned to send the stubborn ones to the sewing machines or the mines, but if Plumeria asked, whatever.
"Welcome aboard Team Rocket."
"Welcome."
"Please take care of us, colleagues."
Proton and Caitlin chimed in politely, in good spirits.
Proton was relieved—whatever these two could do, at least he wouldn't be drowning in work alone anymore.
Caitlin was fascinated—day one in the dark world, and this fast switch from butting heads to smiling allies was… surreal.
But as part of Team Rocket, a stronger Alola branch was good news.
"Next, Guzma, you two should go announce the news. Those who want to stay, stay. Those who don't, let them leave. We won't force it."
Damian told them. No need to rush recruitment.
With solid pay and Pokémon perks, there'd be no shortage of hands.
"Okay." Clearly, the arrangement suited them.
"Then, Plumeria, go find Proton for funds and buy a few clothing factories."
"Huh?" Plumeria blinked.
"Time to produce Team Rocket uniforms. You and Guzma should switch outfits, too. If you want anything custom, have the factory make it. That street-punk look… your taste needs work."
Damian didn't bother hiding his dislike for their style.
Guzma. Plumeria: "…"
Caitlin pressed her lips together. If not for her lady's composure, she'd be laughing.
Their faces were priceless.
"…Understood," Plumeria managed after a long beat.
"And Guzma, coordinate with Proton on the entertainment complex. You're the boss. Use your name in Alola to push our brand."
"Me? Me?!"
Guzma froze, jabbing a thumb at his own face.
Wait—he was going to run an entertainment complex? As the boss?