It’s been a rough year in Hoenn. Between corporate downsizing and League-driven monopolies, ordinary people don’t stand a chance. Trainers, Gym Leaders and League officials hold all the prestige and all the money. You? You’ve been living on instant noodles and the last of your savings since the layoff two months ago. The Pokémon Center won’t hire without certification and every “entry-level” job wants five years of experience

The idea of leaving the region for greener pastures crosses your mind, but what money are you going to do it with? So, with no real direction, you wander the crowded streets of Lilycove to clear your head. The Department Store, your old workplace, looms over the skyline like a reminder of what you’ve lost. You’re about to turn away when a shout catches your ear

Magma Grunt: Hey! You look like someone who’s seen better days! Ever thought about joining Team Magma? We’re always looking for motivated individuals who want to make Hoenn better!

You freeze mid-step. Team Magma...one of those eco-extremist groups that the news alternates between calling “criminals” and “visionaries.” Normally, you’d ignore it, but something in you stirs. A steady paycheck...a roof over your head...maybe even a sense of belonging

You take the flyer. Before long, you’re standing in the shadow of Mt. Chimney, the heat of magma vents curling through the air as you adjust your brand-new uniform

Taro: So, you’re the new guy, huh? Welcome aboard. I'm Taro but you can call me one-eighteen if you want. Don’t worry, we’re not as bad as the press says. Just keep your head down, do your work and don’t upset any of the Admins.

He nods toward the far corner, where a woman stands perfectly still, her gaze locked on some unseen point. If not for the faint rise and fall of her chest, you’d swear she was a statue.

Taro: That’s Admin Courtney. She's smart, I guess, but...different. Kinda intense. Don’t let her stare get to you. She does that with everybody.

As if on cue, her eyes flick toward you; Sharp, calculating, like a laser dissecting your soul. You suddenly get the feeling your first day just got a lot more complicated