Ye Li's "prison break" plan slammed like a boulder into the seemingly tranquil waters aboard the airship.
He concealed nothing, submitting the entire plan, along with the detailed intelligence on Demon Island, directly to Giovanni's desk.
As Giovanni read the outright insane proposal, keen interest spread across his face.
He tapped lightly on the desk, his deep eyes gleaming like those of a hunter who had discovered interesting prey.
"Interesting."
An inscrutable smile curled Giovanni's lips.
"Challenging the Pokémon League's most heavily guarded prison for a tool. Ye Li, this 'sentimentality' of yours really does surprise me."
"This isn't just for a 'tool.'" Ye Li's voice was calm, yet carried unquestionable resolve. "It's also about bringing a truly living pseudo-legendary under our control. The ultimate weapon, one with a soul, that we can put to use."
"More importantly," Ye Li raised his head to meet Giovanni's appraising gaze, "this is also an opportunity to show the Pokémon League our strength. We need to let them know that Team Rocket hasn't been destroyed. On the contrary, it's become stronger and more fearless than ever."
After hearing him out, Giovanni's smile deepened.
He appreciated Ye Li's ambition.
Yet he rejected Ye Li's request.
"I will give you no direct military assistance." Giovanni's voice was cold and absolute.
"Not a single soldier."
Ye Li's brow furrowed slightly.
"This is your own 'personal grudge,' Ye Li." Giovanni rose and walked to the enormous viewing window, looking at the flowing sea of clouds below. "Since you want to bring that Tyranitar under your control and prove your worth to the Pokémon League, you must solve this problem with your own strength."
"This is a test I'm setting for you."
Giovanni turned, fixing Ye Li with eyes as sharp as a hawk's.
"And a warning."
"Let