Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
The Starly let out a chirp when Devon acknowledged him, "Right!"

When the Pokémon before them revealed itself, Nasir immediately dropped the barrier. There was hardly anything it could do to them.

Nasir spoke bluntly to those around them, "That Shinx is scared, be careful approaching it. Injured Pokémon are especially dangerous to handle." Looking to, and now addressing the Shinx he continued, <We are not here to harm you. In fact, my guess is you were attacked by the same group of individuals that assaulted us yesterday. Even if you do not trust us, perhaps you would trust Shaymin? Unlike us, she is not bound to a human.>

Ranulf set down Celes, and she slowly made her way towards the group, looking at the injured Shinx with tears in her eyes, "Oh no... Ranulf... you have to do something..."

Shaking his head, he replied, <There's likely nothing I can do. Let us wait and see if that girl can convince it to trust us.>

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo

<I see... well, at least we're by a Pokémon Center. Your friend will recover quickly, that I have no doubts about.> At those words, Silvally laid down next to its Trainer, looking up at the blonde while he replied to the two girls.

"If you're not confident in their abilities, you should take some time to train them. I need to assemble a new team. If you'd like, we can train our Pokémon together." Green eyes fell upon the non-Alolan, a small smile crossing Gladion's lips, "My guess is contests are unlike Gym Challenges in that you only have specific times to challenge them? As in, they're more of a tournament than a challenge?"

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Staring down the bush with narrowed eyes of caution and legs spread out, Devon blinked at the tiny Electric-type that emerged. A Shinx?...It doesn't look too good.

As the two other younger Trainer's discussed the newcomer, the teenager stood by to inspect the little blue lion a bit. When Lily crouched down and attempted to calm the scared cat, Devon nodded at his Zoroark. "We know Fuzzy. We'll be fine." Smirking, he slowly walked up next to the kind girl and dug around in his bag, before crouching down to offer an orange spray bottle to Lily. "Use this on em. And if he's too freaked out by human stuff, I got some berries we could give em."

@Ninian @Light Lord

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

Hearing the deep tone of the large black and red fox did little to calm the small Shinx's nerves. <Y-you don't know what happened...> He replied on shaky legs, keeping an eye on the older human who knelt down next to the girl, handing her some strange item. "A Super Potion... thanks." She replied, holding out the healing potion in a way where she couldn't use it, but it would show the young electric type that it wasn't dangerous. "It's okay, really, this will help your pain go away. Please... let me help you..." She urged, not making any sudden moves or advances.

Brent stepped back with the other kids to watch from afar. "Lily's taking it really carefully, that's smart. Like Nasir said, my brother told me that some of the most dangerous Pokemon aren't the most powerful, it's the ones that are hurt and scared." He said.

When she heard her name, Shaymin took a close look at the electric type, then floated back. <I think I remember him... he lived farther back in the woods, in a small clearing, with his mother... a Luxray who had a weird color...> Shaymin said to the Pokemon around her. <Weird Color? She must have been Shiny... from what I hear, Shiny Pokemon are super rare and valuable...> Chikorita replied.

The Shinx began to pace back and forth in front of the bush. He couldn't decide whether to trust these Humans or to make a mad dash for it through the woods. His paw hurt so badly, and the girl seemed nice enough... she didn't act like the man who had attacked them... she seemed to be truthfully kind. Slowly the Shinx limped forward still unsure. <I-I'm still not sure... but... you really seem nice... maybe...> He said, cautiously moving towards Lily.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

Gladion commented about training and himself needing to make a new team, causing Luna to slightly smile. "That's very kind of you to ask... thank you..." She said, her Pokemon looking between themselves as they looked at the now laid down Silvally.

"The Contests? Yeah, they're definitely hosted a lot differently than Gym Battles." She said. "While Gym Leaders can be challenged whenever their available, Contests are hosted at certain times. I've heard in other regions they're hosted once a year at each location. Here in Viore, because there are so few Contest Halls, they're usually hosted once a month or so as long as conditions are right." She explained. "And... I guess that's a good way to put it... Anyways, the Vertigo Contest is the first one of the year here. I wonder who else will participate..." She finished.

Finally Sola spoke after being quiet for a while. <I'm not mad, and I'm not too worried. After a nap Torrent is usually fine... but your trainer makes a good point, some training could really benefit us.> She said, looking at the group. <That is true... none of us have even reached out next evolution yet.> Flake said, nearly being pushed over by Hound. <Oh yeah! I'd be up for some training! Always ready, always!> He said at a mile a minute before bounding off again.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Furrowing his brows at the conversation between the other Pokémon, Nasir made his way back towards Devon's side, lowering his voice as to not startle the Shinx further. "It seems this Shinx's mother was a Shiny variant. I would suspect she was hunted by poachers, leaving this as the result. It's little wonder that they do not trust us..."

Wiping tears from her eyes, Celes looked to the Dark-type, "Poachers...?"

"Indeed. There are some humans that hunt rare or valuable Pokémon, often selling them... It's why I was so cautious around humans for so long..."

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
As Sierra finished her explanation, Gladion gave a nod, pulling out and then looking down at his cellphone, punching in the information she had given. "Hmmm. I know Silvally wants to, but the whole concept reminds me of..." Pausing his brows would furrow, "...that woman, so I probably won't do it. You should at least enter it though, Luna. Even if you don't place, the experience will be invaluable."

Looking over the group, Silvally noted that Flake was correct; they hadn't evolved yet. <So you haven't. Well, a bit of training would remedy that. Once Gladion locates a partner or two, we'll be doing a lot of strength, endurance and agility training. If your Trainer isn't familiar with such methods, it will prove useful.>

Finally, a soft smile crossed the blonde's lips as he continued speaking to the Alolan-born. "If you want, I can teach you the basics of strength or agility training. I'm not sure if they have the tools in this center for anything else, though... I'd have to look." Furrowing his brows, he'd think for a moment before continuing, "Once I'm done with that, I'll probably take a walk through Route 701 and see if anything catches my attention. You are both welcome to come with me."

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Standing up and crossing his arms as he looked down at the injured child, Devon groaned and shook his head, a disappointed frown forming on his lips as Nasir spoke. "It's always the same story. I wish all these poachers would just give it up and find some way to make money that doesn't involve screwing with Pokémon."

Looking down at the little lion cub, the scarred teenager gave a brilliant grin. "Don't worry little dude. We're nothing like the guys that hurt you back there. Ace used to be wild until about an hour ago, so he could probably vouch for us."

@Ninian @Light Lord

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

The Shinx stopped short when he heard the older boy in the group, caught off guard by the sudden comment. <Y-you say that... but I'm still...> He said with his eyes shut tight. Then he felt a gentle touch on the side of his head. Opening his eyes, he saw the girl who had been coaxing him out gingerly petting him. It was... soothing... not like what his mother did, but it slowly began to calm the cub's nerves. "That's it... see... we're not going to hurt you, we want to help you." She said in a light voice.

When the topic of Poachers came up, Brent crossed his arms and frowned. "Unfortunately it's not that easy with those kind of people. They only want money. The fact that Viore is so diverse and has so many different kinds of Pokemon is just a magnet for them, like a Venomoth to a flame." He said. "And with those Royal Skies yahoos running around, Poachers have had a bit more free reign since the Police are so spread thin." He finished.

Lily had finally managed to bring the Shinx cub in her arms, the young electric type still trembling somewhat. <Maybe... maybe I can trust you...> He said. Lily smiled. "There we go... now let's get you fixed up, this might sting just a little, but it's going to help you." She said, holding up the Orange Spray Bottle and spraying down the Shinx's leg. The cub stifled a yelp as the strange spray came in contact with his wounds, but it soon dissipated. "Hey, Devon, you have any bandages? I wanna make sure this leg is bandaged up good." She said, turning her head to the group to her side.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

When Gladion said that she should consider taking part in the Vertigo Contest, Luna shook her head. "I think I'll pass on the contest, all the flash and glamour just doesn't sound like my cup of tea." She said, her Pokemon stopping (Even Hound) and looking up at her. "It's gonna be really fun. It's just putting on a show for people and having fun with your Pokemon." Sierra said, causing Luna to look over. "Well... maybe... I don't know..."

Sola closed her eyes and sighed. <That sounds about right... truth is Luna doesn't really know what she wants to do here in Viore.> The grass type replied.

Then the talk of training came up again. "Wow, that sounds really serious... I don't know if we'd be ready for stuff like that... well... maybe Hound..." She said, as Hound had continued his rampage in a nearby bush.

<She does have a point... perhaps... a demonstration?> Flake asked, looking at the Silvally.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Devon mentioned the Starly, who proudly puffed up his chest, <It's been pretty good so far. I haven't seen them do anything bad. You look pretty bad. I would trust that girl if I were you. Humans are pretty useful.>

A soft groan escaped Nasir's lips as Ace explained his feelings. "Well... yes... I suppose he is right."

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
The conversation between the two girls, and the one's doubts caused a small frown to cross the blonde's lips. Shaking it off a moment later, he replied, "I see." Glancing over towards the rampaging Rockruff, his gaze lingered for a moment before coming back to Luna, "It's something I would recommend for every Pokémon, no matter their stage of development."

Taking the Bounsweet's words into account, Silvally furrowed its brows, <She traveled such distance without a clear plan? Well, that's brave to be sure... it reminds me almost of Gladion's sister.> Looking up to his Trainer, he picked himself from the ground and nudged his pant-leg, <Well shall see if I can get him to demonstrate...> Once the boy's attention was on the chimera, Silvally started towards his hip satchel, undoing the magnetic button.

"You want to show them now? All right." Pulling out a few small flying discs from his hip satchel, he continued, "Well, as an example, this is an exercise I've developed for Silvally."

With a disc in hand, Gladion would let it loose. A moment later he'd fling another, and another, all at varying speeds, heights and distances.

Now in a sprint, Silvally launched itself towards a disc, swiping at it with a paw quickly before making its way towards the next disc. With another powerful leap, the chimera gave it a swift side kick with a hind leg before landing gracefully, sprinting towards another disc. This exercise would go on for a brief few more moments before Silvally successfully finished making contact with the flying discs. Once it finished, the pseudo-Grass type went around, gathering the disc-shaped gliding toys.

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Nodding at Lily, Devon once again dug around in his bag and gently tossed a roll of gauze to her, before biting his lip and turning to Brent. "Yeah I know, It's the same everywhere else. But doesn't Viore have a Pokémon Ranger Guild? Usually those guys would be the ones to take on poachers to make the police's job a little easier."

@Ninian @Light Lord

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

Catching the roll of gauze, Lily set right to work in wrapping the Shinx's leg up to prevent further injury. Meanwhile, the Poacher Conversation continued. "I don't think so. The PDs usually kept things under control. But with Royal Skies... I guess that's kind of why the Ranger Union ended up sending some Rangers here." Brent replied.

As Lily tied the knot on the bandaging, the Shinx took a quick sniff at the wrappings. Looking back up at Lily, it suddenly leaped from her lap and dashed back into the forest. "Wait... aw..." Lily sighed as the Electric Type disappeared into the tree line. "Well, I guess it is still a Wild Pokemon... but I wish I could have looked it over a little more..."

Brent raised his arms behind his head and stretched a bit. "All this talk about Poaching is really getting me down..." Brent said. "Let's get going, Vertigo City's waiting for us!" He finished, Lily still looking a bit downcast. "Yeah, alright, let's get going. Ready?" She asked the rest of the group, unaware that the Shinx was still nearby, keeping its distance but watching them.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

Luna, Sierra, and their Pokemon watched as the Chimera displayed its extreme agility, a feat that was hard for the Pokemon to even track, forget replicate. As the demonstration ended, it left Luna more unsure about such training than before. "Wow... that was intense, like, really intense. There's no way any of them, even Hound, could pull that off anytime soon..."

"Well... he said it was made just for his Pokemon... you'd probably have to come up with something yourself, too." Sierra explained. "Maybe... but what would I do?" She asked.

Her Pokemon were equally unsure. <Well... maybe some kind of track course?> Sola suggested. <How about a race?! A race through the woods! That would be fun!> Hound chimed in. <There could also be balance and leaping, not to mention small sparring matches with each other...> Flake threw into the mix.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Nasir's eyes widened as the Shinx ran off, "W-Wait it's dangerous to...!?" Letting out a dejected groan, the Zoroark hung his head. "...I suppose that's it. I hope it'll be all right..." Looking to his Trainer, he'd nod, "I am ready to depart if you are..."

Quietly, Celes had been watching the situation, still unsure of how to react. She knew nothing of poaching, and couldn't understand why someone would hurt a Pokémon. Finally, she broke the silence, "Um... are you sure we shouldn't try to find it... I don't... I don't want it to hurt anymore..."

<Celes... you cannot force a wild Pokémon to trust you.> The massive Dragonite would hang his head, staring down at its young charge.

"I... know, but it feels wrong..."

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
A small smile spread across Gladion's lips at the girls reaction. Crossing his arms, he'd return to his usual frown, "Something that your Pokémon is capable of doing, but that's difficult enough to provide enough of a challenge." Looking to the girl's Pokémon, he'd shift his weight onto the other foot, "It appears that your Pokémon are discussing it as we speak. Am I right, Sivally?"

With an affirmative chirp, the chimera replied, <Indeed.>

"Well then. I can't understand what they're saying, but maybe you can try asking them."

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
At the Shinx's hasty departure, Devon blew a few stray hairs out of his face and shrugged. "Can't say I didn't see that coming. They were probably still freaked out even though you were helping. Don't beat yourself up for it Lily." Slugging his white single strap pack onto his back once again, Devon held a thumb up to signify his wish to continue. A frown spreading across his face as he looked to Celes with brown eyes clouded in thought. "I know Celes. But take it from me and my crazy amount of scars, you can't win em all. What matters is if you try." Smiling slightly, he looked towards the green haired girl. "Lily did the right thing, and that's all you can do. Come on. Let's keep going."

@Ninian @Light Lord

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

Lily looked back to the group as she got to her feet. "It should be fine. I might not be a Nurse, but I could tell the injuries weren't too bad." She said, turning towards the path to Vertigo and looking up for a moment. "The only thing I was worried about was that paw, but I wrapped it up pretty good." Brent nodded. "Yeah, like Devon said, there's not much you can really do in the situation if the Pokemon doesn't entirely trust you." He said.

As the group continued back on their current course, the Pokemon had some opinions of their own. <I don't see why he wouldn't trust Lily... she's one of the nicest people I've ever met.> Said Cyndaquil. <Well you haven't met too many, have you? But, that aside, she is one of the kindest people you probably will meet.> Chikorita replied faithfully. <Well, I'm glad I put my trust in her. If she hadn't helped me, if all of you hadn't... I don't even want to know what those guys would have done to me.> Shaymin replied to everyone who could understand her.

Michael's Party: Turtwig, Glameow
Bryce's Party: Moss the Swampert, Striker the Manectric, Maya the Flareon*
[Vertigo City]

As the sun had finally taken position high above the horizon, the two trainers finally arrived in the bustling metropolis of Vertigo City. "Well, I think this is the place." Michael said as they walked through the hustle and bustle of the late morning crowds. "I have to say... it's big. I'm impressed, it might rival Rustboro in Hoenn." Bryce replied as the two trainers and their Pokemon walked along the main path.

They soon came upon the Vertigo Pokemon Center at last, and the two headed inside for a much needed break and breather. As they and their Pokemon had a cool, refreshing drink, the two talked about their future plans. "Me? Not sure. I think I might hang around Vertigo for a bit, might catch the Pokemon Contest coming up here." Michael said. "Oh, so they have Contests in Viore, too. Interesting. As for me, I might try and head for Riviera Town as quick as I can. Everyone here is excited to take on their first challenge here." Bryce replied.

<Oh, come on Bryce... you know you wanna stay for a bit... this kid made you smile, really smile, for the first time in forever...> Maya said, looking up at her trainer. <Come now, Maya, you know Bryce too well. He wants to do what he thinks is best for us.> Striker replied. <Ugh, sometimes I wish he could understand us perfectly. I'd give him some talk...> She said.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

Luna looked down at her Pokemon, trying to figure out what they were trying to say. "Well, what do you guys think?" She asked. The group decided that some type of Parkour Race would be something fun to try. However, trying to tell that to Luna would be futile through speech, so the group had to play a kind of game of charades to get the message through.

Both Sierra and Luna watched confusingly as the group attempted to show her what they wanted to do. "Jumping? No, Running? Spinning?" Sierra guessed as the Pokemon continued their little show. "Some kind of... race?" Luna asked, her Pokemon giving affirmatives replies as they continued. <Come on Luna, you're smart. Figure it out already.> Sola said, beginning to get frustrated.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Eyes downcast, the small girl plodded along, following the rest of the group. I-I know they're right, that Pokémon might be okay, but... Heaving a sigh, she'd continue to keep her silence, the Dragonite looming over her filled with worry.

Upon hearing Devon's consoling words, the small girl finally spoke, "Y-Yeah... I know..."

Glancing back at the other Pokémon, Nasir chimed in on the current conversation, "While I agree, given the Shinx's experience..." Closing his eyes, the Zoroark let out a soft sigh, "I would be surprised if they've had a positive interaction with a human, at least before now. It's likely they suspect Lily of deception... it is safer to assume someone means you harm than to trust them." Placing his turquoise gaze upon Shaymin specifically he'd continue, "That said, I am glad that you placed your trust in her. You're right, had you not..." Trailing off, the Dark-type would conclude his words.

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
Putting his hands on his hips, Gladion looked over the girl's Pokémon as they attempted to conveyed their thoughts. I wish I could understand other Pokémon... perhaps Silvally can give me some sort of a hint... Twisting his visage into a frown, he'd continue pondering, It's definitely some sort of race. Perhaps...!

Looking to Silvally, he'd ask a question, "Do they want to do some sort of obstacle course?" With a nod, the pseudo Grass-type nodded, <Yes, that is quite close.>

Shifting his weight to the other leg, the blonde addressed Luna, "An obstacle course doesn't seem to be exactly what they're requesting, but I'm sure if we set one up, they'll improvise."

@Ninian @Light Lord

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

The group walked in silence for a while, each most likely thinking about everything that had happened in their short time together already, and what would come when they came across the next stop on their journey together. Lily, for one, kept thinking about the prophecy told to her by Brooks, and her connection with Shaymin. She was snapped out of her thoughts when Brent stepped up his pace to reach the next hilltop. "Guys, we're here! That's Vertigo City!" He said, Lily running up to his side as he pointed to a sprawling metropolis before them.

"W-Wow, it's so huge! It's the biggest city I've ever seen!" Lily said in awe. "Yeah, but surprisingly enough it doesn't have a Pokemon Gym there." Brent said, looking at his Pokegear. "It does have a Contest Hall though." Lily darted off ahead, spinning around and hailing the group onward. "Come on then, enough talking, let's go see the sights!" She said as she continued down the path, Brent following behind.

[Vertigo City]

Once finally through the outlying gate, one could truly grasp how truly massive this city was. While the area they were in now had mostly 2-3 story buildings, when one would near the center of downtown, there would be the massive skyscrapers of numerous corporations stationed in the region. "Wow... this is kind of... overwhelming... but exciting! What should we do first?" She asked, before blushing upon hearing her stomach rumble.

"Well... I'd say since it's about noon, we stop over at the Pokemon Center and get some lunch. What do you guys say?" Asked Brent. <Lunch would be great, I'm starved!> Cyndaquil would remark. <Some food would be nice, considering how far we just walked.> Chikorita replied. <I'm not too hungry... but sure, if you guys want to, it's cool with me.> Shaymin said, hoving above.

Bryce's Party: Moss the Swampert, Striker the Manectric, Maya the Flareon*
[Vertigo City]

As the lobby began to fill up, Bryce decided to step away, heading up to an outdoor balcony that overlooked the Center's Training Field. Down below he and his Pokemon watched a most peculiar sight. Some kind of obstacle course had been set up, and a group of Pokemon seemed to be racing each other across it. "What are they doing..." Bryce would say to himself and his Pokemon, they too unsure of the scene unfolding below.

Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

<I don't know... where you guys... came up with this... but this is fun!> Torrent said as she raced alongside her party mates through the makeshift obstacle course made up of various pieces of wood gathered from the nearby woods after awaking from her power nap. Currently Hound was in the lead, followed in second by Flake, Torrent in third, and Sola in last. "Well... they seem to be having fun, that's good." Luna said to Gladion, as Sierra had left to go register for the Vertigo Contest, which would be taking place the following day.

<Well... this wasn't... exactly what we... had in mind... but it works...> Sola said as she attempted to overtake Torrent. <It's definitely going... to help... keep us in shape...> Flake replied in between breaths, barely keeping pace with Hound. <You guys are out of breath? Come on, you gotta do better than that!> Hound said as he bounded ahead.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Vertigo City]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
"I hadn't expected to make it hear so soon..." Taking in the sights, the Zoroark's eyes grew large in awe, It's not as large as Goldenrod City, I do not believe? However... it's still impressive... Looking to the two kids he'd continue to think, If they grew up in a small town, I could see how this would be overwhelming...

Over the course of the walk, Celes had managed to convince Ranulf into carrying her. Incidentally, she also fell asleep. Finally, the Dragonite poke her, <Celes... wake up...>

Turning to Brent, Nasir would give a nod of agreement, "I do like the sound of lunch. Devon?"

Taking off from Devon's shoulder, the Starly circled the group, chirping excitedly, <I'm dying over here! Let's eat!>

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
"Seems like they're enjoying themselves... all though don't let them push themselves too far." Pointing to Flake he'd continue, "Out of the group, your Vulpix is probably working itself the hardest." A slight smile crossed his lips as he continued, "That's good. A competitive spirit and a want to improve is something everyone should strive for, but..." Looking to Silvally, he'd shoot it an apologetic glance, "When I started training Silvally, I was short-sighted. I thought only of growing more powerful. Silvally felt the same way I did, and trained really hard. It tore a muscle in its rear leg, and was unable to walk for a week..."

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Vertigo City]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
The brown haired boy stared up at the various tall, glass buildings and folded his arms behind his head. No Gym in the big city huh? Sort of like Jubilife....

Looking over at the green haired girl, Devon smirked slightly at her remark. "I'm surprised you're overwhelmed when you're from Goldenrod Lily. Nowadays, cities like this don't even phase me. And yeah, I'd be fine with lunch. Unless anyone's got a list of what we can do around here."

@Ninian @Light Lord

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Vertigo City]

With everyone (awake) agreeing with their course of action, Brent pointed over to a rather large modern looking multistory building just down the road from them bearing a Red Pokeball Symbol above the entrance. "Well, we don't have far to go, that's the Pokemon Center right there." He said, starting forward as he waved the group on. As they headed towards the center, Lily responded to Devon's comment. "Well, yeah, Goldenrod is one thing, but this place... Goldenrod has huge buildings, yeah, but look at those..." She said, pointing to the towering Skyscrapers of Vertigo.

As they headed on inside the building through the automatic doors, the Pokemon Center was already lightly crowded with trainers. Some Lily kind of recognized from the terminal at the Airport in New Amber, yet others seemed completely unknown to her. As they made their way through the crowd, Brent stopped for a moment at the front desk. "Excuse me, Nurse Joy? Which way is the cafeteria?" He asked. "It's just down that hallway, the first set of doors on your right. It's all you can eat, free of charge for trainers, and we also have seats outside if you'd like." She replied.

"Wow, that's cool!" Lily said happily, Brent nodding. "Yeah, the Pokemon Centers here in Viore are like that. Thanks, Nurse Joy." Brent said as the group moved towards the cafeteria as directed by the Nurse.

Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
Bryce's Party: Moss the Swampert, Striker the Manectric, Maya the Flareon*
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

Just as Gladion was beginning to talk about the dangers of overtraining, a loud crash was heard in the background. Luna to see one of the pieces of makeshift equipment had broken, and Hound had gone tumbling, hitting the ground hard. Flake, on the other hand, reacted swiftly to the change, jumping clear of the broken course and landing on all four feet almost gracefully on the ground before dashing over to Hound.

"Oh no, Hound!" Luna yelled as she too rushed over to her fallen partner, Sola and Torrent not long after. <Hound! Are you okay?!> Sola asked in a panicked state. <Ow, ow, ow! It hurts, it really hurts...> Hound whimpered as he held up his right front paw. Luna, seeing this, carefully examined the paw, touching it lightly as Hound winced at the light prod. "It might be bad..." She said, picking him up, careful not to touch the injured paw. "I'm gonna get him inside to Nurse Joy!" She said, quickly dashing towards the main building as her Pokemon, unsure of what to do in the situation, remained where they were in shock.

Meanwhile, Bryce and his Pokemon watched the scene unfold from above. "That did not look good at all..." Bryce said, shaking his head. <He landed hard on that leg... really hard...> Maya said, looking over to Striker. <Mhm... at least it happened right here at the Pokemon Center, and not somewhere out in the wilderness. It could have been much worse.> He replied.

The lone Pokemon on the ground now conversed about what just happened. <Poor Hound... I hope he's going to be okay...> Torrent said solemnly. <I'm just glad you didn't get hurt too, Flake. You were neck and neck with him.> Sola said, Flake now suddenly feeling almost responsible. <If I had gone first, I could have recovered easier than Hound... If only I was faster... stronger...> She said, looking down to the ground quietly.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Vertigo City]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Looking up, the Zoroark's eyes widen, "I suppose you're right... those buildings are rather tall. Much taller than the radio tower or department store."

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

Once inside the Center, the Dark-type began to lick his lips. "The food is free...? That makes things easier..."

Hopping out of Ranulf's arms, the girl went from drowsy to hyper in an instant, "Free food!? AhhhH! I'm going to eat so much! Ranulf, we're going to be soooo stuffed! I don't think I've had like a feast in a reaaallly long time!" Putting a paw to his brow, the Dragonite shook his head.

"What are you guys waiting for!?" Without another word, the small girl ran off towards the cafeteria.

Ace blinked a few times, <She's easily excitable. But! I'm also hungry.>

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
The crash caught the immediate attention of the blonde. N-No!

Silvally immediately rushed over to what could have been a heap of Pokémon. <Hound...!>

A sigh escaped from Gladion's lips as he watched Luna run off with her Rockruff. Putting a hand to his head, he muttered to his companion, "...I should have warned her sooner."

The chimera stepped up to join the group of Pokémon, <Don't blame yourself. It's a learning experience. An injury could have happened in battle, which could have ended much worse.>

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
The mention that there was no charge for the food in the Center caused the teenager to raise a brow, before shrugging and putting up a smile on his face. He waved a hand to the pink haired woman behind the counter as he passed by. "Thanks. I'm surprised, in Johto and Sinnoh you usually need to pay for any food they give you."

Making his way down the hall and practically coughing on the dust that Celes kicked up, Devon pushed his way past the light café doors and looked around. Though the place was packed, it seemed like there were a few seats. His brown gaze drifted over to the Illusion Fox near him, and he smiled. "So Nasir, there isn't a Gym in this city, but I think I heard there's a Contest hall. If you wanted to enter another Contest, I'd be all for it."

@Ninian @Light Lord
Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

As the group came into the crowded cafeteria, Devon noted that the way things ran in Viore were a bit different than in other regions. "Well, other than our little problems, People and Pokemon in Viore generally like to give each other a helping hand whenever they can, even if it's too complete strangers." Brent would go on to say as they grabbed some plates and grabbed a few pieces of food from the counters.

"That's really awesome." Lily said, looking around her. "Ya know, it's kinda crowded in here, why don't we go outside and eat? It's such a nice day anyways." She said, Brent looking around them. "Doesn't look like we've got much choice." He said as he watched the last table fill up with a group of incoming trainers.

Heading outside, it was significantly quieter and emptier than the room inside. A few tables had a couple trainers chatting together, save for one blue haired girl sitting alone in the shade of a giant oak tree. Lily looked over and started over herself, walking to the other side of the table. "Excuse me, mind if we join you? You seemed kind of... alone." She said, the girl before her looking over. "Huh? Oh, yeah, sure, I don't mind." She replied, shaking her head as if to focus. "Sorry, I was just thinking... My name's Alicia by the way." She said.

"Nice to meet you Alicia, I'm Lily. This is Chikorita." Lily replied, holding up her grass type partner in her lap. "I'm Brent, this is Cyndaquil." Brent said, sitting next to Lily with his partner jumping up next to him.



Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
Bryce's Party: Moss the Swampert, Striker the Manectric, Maya the Flareon*
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

After rushing the injured Rockruff inside, Nurse Joy quickly took it into the back to treat its wounds. Luna watched through the window as Joy X-Ray'd the injured paw, before continuing to treat it. She sighed before turning and taking a seat as Bryce walked in. "I saw what happened out there. Looked pretty rough, so I thought I'd come see how you all were doing." He said, with Maya and Striker behind him. "Nurse Joy's working on him right now, he should be fine she said..." Luna replied, Bryce nodding and taking a seat next to her.

"My name's Bryce by the way... Look, I've been where you are before, feeling helpless as you have to watch your Pokemon be in pain." He said, Luna closing her eyes. "Yeah... it's hard... knowing I wasn't paying attention either... I could have prevented..." She started, Bryce cutting in. "Don't think about what could have happened... that's always the worst part. You can't change the past." He said, Luna looking up in surprise. "I guess... thanks... Bryce was it? I'm Luna." She replied.

Back outside, the chimera was attempting to comfort the Alolan Vulpix, albeit unsuccessfully. With a sigh, the Ice Type separated itself from the group, taking a seat in the shade facing away from everyone. <Flake...> Torrent said sadly, Sola giving a sigh. <It's really been hard for her to adjust...> She said, looking over at Silvally. <She's always been... difficult to read. She wasn't born Wild, and she wasn't always with us.>

Torrent nodded. <Yeah, I remember too. She belonged to Luna's Grandmother, she raised her from an egg. Those two were perfect together...> Sola continued. <Sadly, Luna's grandmother passed away a few months ago. Apparently she gave Flake to Luna in her will, something that humans make when they're close to... well... dying... I'm not really all too sure...> Sola said, turning again to look at Flake. <She's always calm, quiet, but I don't think that's really her.> Torrent said.