[IC] Soul&Dru 1X1 Pokemon: When Paths Intertwine

[Soulserenity20]

Two trainers on a journey through Kanto find themselves the targets of good times and bad, struggles and triumphs, hurt feelings and precious moments shared. They don't always get along, they don't always agree, they don't always understand each other but you know what they say about opposites...

Kanto Map

[druple]

In his dreams he was inexplicably happy, things were as they should be. He would find himself laughing contently with his father. His patriarch took the time to provide constructive criticism on his battling technique, and he would always become the Pokémon League Champion. He would become famous, just as his father had once been. They were just that however, dreams. Ren had to accept the fact that his father was gone and would never return. That’s just the way things were.

Sometimes when he found himself alone, he would allow tears to spill over. He would cry out for the father that he barely remembered. That was only when he was alone. In front of the rest of the world he was a rock. He was impassive, brutally honest, and sarcastic. Ren guessed this was the reason that he had never gained a human travelling companion. Not that he had ever wanted one, it was easier this way. No attachments, meaning nothing to hold him back. Feelings were just a sign of weakness anyways.

The wind tousled the platinum blonde hair that hung messily about his face. The face that somehow always seemed to be stuck in a half frown. He found himself leaning against the railing of the S.S. Aqua, gazing out at the seemingly never ending waters with earth colored eyes. The ship cut through the sea as butter would be cut by a knife. They were set to arrive in Vermillion within the hour, which was fine by Ren. The choppy waves made his stomach churn uncomfortably. He much preferred the feel of solid ground to this. This was the trainer’s first time on a boat, and it would also be his last. I’ll definitely be using the Magnet Train on the way home. Ren found himself thinking as his stomach gave another lurch.

At his feet the young man’s companion lay curled up sleeping, apparently unabashed by the water or the boat. His Pokémon were just as good as any human in his opinion. “Lucky.” He found himself murmuring as he prodded the Umbreon with his foot. “Genesis, we’re almost there.” The nickname given to his partner had been chosen by his father, and Ren would have altered it given the choice. The Pokémon was just as stubborn as his owner it seemed, and so his name remained unchanged. The Umbreon stirred faintly, opening one of his eyes with a large yawn.

In the distance, the sight of land caught Ren’s eye. Relief bloomed in his chest as he put two fingers in his mouth, before emitting a shrill whistle. In response a shadow dropped from high in the sky. His second Pokémon gracefully descended from the clouds. With a slight coo in his direction, his second friend, Pidgeotto wrapped its large talons around the same railing that Ren had been leaning against previously. The bird lovingly nuzzled against the side of the trainer’s face for a moment. “Quit it Pig!” Ren growled menacingly, using one hand to push the bird away. Pig responded by nipping at his trainer’s fingers lightly.

While Genesis resembled Ren’s personality, Pig was definitely the direct opposite. He loved to be around people, and always seemed to enjoy making new friends wherever the group travelled. The port drew closer, and the Captain’s voice could be heard from the speakers surrounding the boat. “We will be reaching Vermillion City momentarily. Please be sure to gather all your belongings, as we will be leaving once more for Johto by late afternoon.” Ren took no notice, as he had never put his belongings down in the first place. After another painstakingly long ten minutes, the ship pulled even with the port. After the captain wished them all a good day, they were allowed to exit. Not a moment too soon if you asked Ren.

He bustled towards the exit. When his feet found the pier the trainer released air that he hadn’t even realized that he had been holding. “Finally.”

[Soulserenity20]

A bright morning light shone through the window, waking Skye with it's brilliant glow. Beside her came the muffled sounds of a tiny pokemon hidden beneath the blankets before a furry brown head poked its way out from under the duvet. "Eeee!" Said a small eevee as it nuzzled her face. "Well good morning to you too Korra!" Smiling, she lifted herself from her pillow and swung her feet over the side of the bed. A warm breeze drifted its way in from the open veranda doors and between the curtains she caught a glimpse of a fiery orange tail swaying about. "Enjoying the air out there Nova?"

"Arca!" The massive arcanine rose and made his way into the room, licking at Skye's feet, urging her to get moving.

"Okay, okay, I'm up! I'm going. Off with you!" She said with a warm smile on her face. Down stairs she heard her mother calling her two companions by name, summoning them for breakfast so Skye could have time to herself to get ready. As she moved about her room collecting clothes and brushing out her long, strawberry locks, she couldn't help but feel a sense of serenity sweep over her as she let her thoughts drift to the meaning of the day. She had chosen today to start her next journey and it couldn't have come a minute sooner. As much as she enjoyed her life in Vermillion she had always felt so sheltered and condensed in the streets of the quaint city. She needed experience, knowledge, training; if she was ever to understand the workings of pokemon breeding and the intricate science behind it she would have to spend more time out in the real world witnessing a vast array of battles, contests, and pokemon species. She decided she would first head to Pewter City to meet with the returned Gym Leader Brock; he had taken a leave of absence from the gym to venture off on his own journey and had returned as one of the most esteemed breeders in all of Kanto. His knowledge would be of infinite value.

After Pewter, she wasn't sure exactly where she would go; perhaps collect the 8 gym badges of the region and work towards a chance to meet the elite 4 and the regions champion; no doubt their pokemon were of the highest calibre. She knew she would miss home on her travels, but she would have her two closest friends with her; she had decided to leave behind the rest of her team to turn over a new leaf. A year ago, she had returned from her first journey in a distant land and had grown substantially from the experience. The debate of whether or not to go on another journey was one that went on for months, and once it was decided, it took her even longer to settle on venturing through her home region instead of taking off to Sinnoh. Despite having been born and raised in Vermilion, she rarely ventured out of the city for her family had little reason to travel. They owned an orchard in the north eastern corner of Vermilion City, built on a patch of land purchased by her grandfather many years ago. For his whole life he could never make up his mind what he wanted to do with the land and it wasn't until he passed away that her mother and father settled on building a natural escape in the busy city. They grew berries of all kinds and sold them raw or in processed drinks and baking. The orchard doubled as a pokemon daycare and growing up, Skye quickly developed an interest in the breeding and raising of pokemon.

A loud whistle rung out in the distance just then, snapping Skye from her thoughts. "That must be the day's ferry. I wonder what kind of people are being brought here this time..." She thought out loud. When she noticed the time, she pulled herself from her lazy routine and quickly prepared to venture out on her journey. She packed her necessities and had one last home cooked meal before saying her fond farewells to her family. Within the hour she was off down the road, heading down to the main square of the town to purchase some supplies for the road before departing. As she neared the docks she slowed down and enjoyed a moment of observing the miscellaneous tourists that speckled the landscape. Chuckling at their awe at a city who's streets she had known since birth, she continued on down her path towards a local Pokemart; Korra pranced happily about at her side, exploring whatever there was to see. Nova Blitz was in his pokeball as he didn't seem to enjoy the packed streets of the downtown region of Vermilion.

[druple]

The roads of Vermillion city were packed. It seemed that a fair amount of people called this place home. People that Ren had no interest in conversing with. The blonde had little time to make friends, and preferred the peaceful sound of less populated areas. There was something about nature that put the young trainer at ease. Being in cities generally set him on edge; because of this he avoided them at all costs. Unless he was buying gear or challenging a gym leader that is. It went without saying that Genesis obviously felt the same way as his trainer. The Umbreon was vigilant in making sure that no strangers approached him, and even let loose a guttural growl as a man entered his comfort zone.

It was for this reason that Ren eventually detached a pokeball from his belt. A red beam of light issued from the dual colored orb; causing the Pokémon to disappear from sight. Not before he shot a reproachful look at his companion however. Genesis absolutely abhorred pokeballs, even back in the days when the trainer had first began his journey. Ren could remember when Genesis would struggle so much that the capsule would open, prematurely spewing the (then) Eevee out. Fond memories flooded Ren’s mind of the days when the two of them had not gotten along great at all. Genesis had even gone so far as to purposely lose battles to prove a point.

At first Ren was thoroughly convinced that it was just another thing his father had failed him in. As it turned out however, the two of them had just been too much alike for their own good. It had been in a moment of weakness that Genesis had first crawled into Ren’s lap. It was when the Pokémon had licked the tears from his face that a friendship had bloomed. The rest was history, and the trainer could hardly remember life before his first friend. Actually, he didn’t want to. It had been entirely too lonely. Shaking his head to clear the thoughts, Ren reminded himself that there were items on his agenda.

In front of him, a girl with an Eevee paused to view the group of people exiting the pier. Probably a local. Ren thought to himself before continuing. The passengers of the boat spilled onto the crowded streets. All of them going their separate ways at that point. Ren attempted to locate the familiar sign of a Pokemart. He was in dire need of some pokeballs, and an array of different medicines for his upcoming travels. Above him, he caught a glimpse of Pig happily soaring through the sky; the blonde marveled at how the Pidgeotto’s wings never seemed to tire. Occasionally his partner would fly extra low, weaving in and out of the various strangers surrounding his trainer. It was like this wherever they went. Pig would attempt to draw as much attention to himself as possible, much to Ren’s contempt. While his main goal was to stay off the radar, Pig’s was the direct opposite.

As if to prove the point the Pokémon tucked his wings diving in front of the girl Ren had noticed earlier. He hovered in front of her for a moment before dropping to the ground in front of her. “Pidgooo!” The Pidgeotto cried happily at the Eevee, obviously attempting to make a new friend.

“Damn it.” Ren muttered to himself. “So much for remaining unnoticed.”

[Soulserenity20]

After a short while her destination came into view at the end of the street. She hoped Jimmy, one of the store keeps who had developed an unusual obsession with her, wasn't working; she just wanted to get in, get what she needed and get out of the city at long last. As she proceeded down the street, struggling to keep wisps of her long hair out of her face in the gentle breeze she was stopped in her tracks by a chatty pidgeotto. The bird pokemon hovered before her, a blissful look painted onto its face. "Oh! Well hello there friend." The pokemon lowered itself to the ground to greet Korra and was quickly taken on by an excited eevee prancing about in a social dance around the feathered stranger. "Well isn't that something?" She mused at the friendly exchange between the two.

Skye knelt down to get a closer look at the surprise visitor; its plumage was clean and took on a silky look, leading her to believe it wasn't a wild pokemon. Furthermore, it's beak was well shaped, its trademark mane of plumes was very long and thick, and its talons were sharp as could be. The pokemon seemed to be well sized and toned; this pidgeotto was certainly well bred. She smiled in appreciation, sure now more than ever that this pokemon had a trainer. But as she looked around she didn't see an immediate possibility of its trainer. She thought perhaps it had gotten lost? It may very well have belonged to one of the many tourists in the area and it wasn't hard to lose track of a person on the days the ferry drifted to the docks.

"Pidgeotto" she said, prying the bird's attention away from Korra's enthusiastic interactions. "You're not from around here are you? You have a trainer. Is that right?" The pokemon cooed in confirmation and hopped about happily, motioning to a blonde man a little ways away. "Ah, is that your trainer there? He doesn't look very happy..." Standing up, she turned to greet the approaching stranger, twisting a strand of her hair in slight nervousness as she realized the man was surprisingly attractive. "Uhm, hey there. Is this your pidgeotto? It seems to have found a friend." She motioned down to the cheery little eevee now sitting at her side, brown eyes trained on the new comer. "This is Korra, and I'm Skye. Your pokemon is quite beautiful, I'd be willing to bet it has an impressive pedigree behind it."

[druple]

Running crossed his mind several times, but that obviously wasn’t an option. He couldn’t leave his Pokémon behind. In front of him Pig seemed ecstatic that the eevee was returning his advances. The long strawberry hair of the girl swayed in the light breeze, and Ren watched as she knelt to ground to get a closer look at his pidgeotto. Pig loved attention of any kind; instantly the bird puffed up to look more impressive. The girl inspected him with a close eye for a moment. Once she was satisfied, she spoke to his pokémon in low tones that he couldn’t quite catch. Behind her Ren waited with baited breath. Perhaps she would just take it with a grain of salt and go on her – nope. In horror, the trainer watched as Pig pointed him out of the crowd. I’ll kill that bird. He thought to himself vehemently.

As if in slow motion the other trainer’s eyes slowly caught his, and Ren felt himself flush. There was no chance of getting away now. Unable to move, he felt himself frozen in the same spot as she steadily moved closer. Behind her he watched as Pig looked at him smugly as if he had planned the entire thing. The flying type pokémon rose in the air, gracefully gliding over to his trainer before folding his wings again and eyeing him expectantly. That little jerk… Ren tried his best to look nonchalant as she approached speaking distance.

"Uhm, hey there. Is this your pidgeotto? It seems to have found a friend."

“..Pidgeotto?” He heard himself say stupidly. Oh way to go you idiot. This is the reason you avoid people in the first place. Ren cleared his throat, attempting to patch up his error so that the girl didn’t think he was an absolute mental case. “Oh, yes. Yes, that dunce belongs to me.” He recovered, his tone adapting to its normal sarcastic bite. Much better. He found himself thinking as his trademark smirk fixed itself on his face. At his feet, Pig chirped indignantly before pecking at his ankle. Ren pointedly ignored the pokémon though a stab of pain shot up his leg. “He has a knack for picking out the weaklings.” His cocky smile grew wider still. “You know what they say about birds of a feather..” he finished before trailing off pointedly.

Yes, that would surely drive her away. She would be gone and he could go back to what he knew best. Quiet travel. “The name’s Ren, and this is Pig.” He responded gruffly, ignoring her compliment to his pidgeotto. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I was just on my way to the pokemart.”

[Soulserenity20]

Skye caught her herself moments before her jaw dropped. "dunce"? "Weaklings?" She couldn't believe what she was hearing; the nerve of this man was ludicrous to say the least. Though Skye was a kind person and much of a pacifist by nature she simply could not handle a trainer disrespecting his own pokemon when it so clearly was a capable companion. "I beg your pardon? Do you always insult your pokemon so much? Or is that just something you do to complete strangers and their companions? I don't think this beautiful pidgeotto is much of a dunce at all from what I've seen, and I have no doubt in my mind that its not weak. It's well built and in peak condition, so if there's a reason at all for it to be weak it would be no one's fault but its trainers."

She scooped up eevee and looked Ren in the eye. For such a handsome man he sure was.... off. But nonetheless, she wasn't about to let him just walk away after such words. "Fancy that, I'm heading to the Pokemart too so perhaps I'll join you and our "weak" pokemon can spend a little more time enjoying each other's company." She turned to start making her way towards the building. "So, what are you collecting supplies for? The voyage home?" Here she was assuming he wasn't from around here; she would certainly have known who he was, had he been. "Or a journey through Kanto? Vacation maybe?"

[druple]

”I beg your pardon?” She had asked as if she couldn’t believe what he had said.

The blonde watched with a satisfied grin as the girl eyed him in disbelief. She was obviously appalled that he would even say things of that sort. He of course knew that his pokémon were anything but weak; he had trained them after all. He had even started to walk away when she had unleashed some stinging words of her own. He stopped quite suddenly as he felt his grin falter, immediately replaced by a bright red hue on his cheeks. This girl is so infuriating.. It was clear that the young man wasn’t used to having an insult thrown back with such speed and ferocity. He felt his jaw set angrily.

It's well built and in peak condition, so if there's a reason at all for it to be weak it would be no one's fault but its trainers.

Ren scoffed. At his feet Pig gave a chirp of agreement, clearly siding with the stranger. A pang of guilt attacked his chest, and he made a mental note to apologize to the bird once they escaped this persistent foreigner. “Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, please excuse me if I don’t value yours highly.” He vocalized bitterly, attempting to leave her behind. To his annoyance she followed, saying that she was headed in the same direction. Well that’s just great… He thought to himself irritably. Why couldn’t she just leave him alone? It was obvious that he didn’t want her company. She was relentless, he had to give her that. It was almost as if Pig was giving him a taste of his own medicine.

She was full of questions, and he took a second to wonder why she was so interested in him. Well if Skye wasn’t leaving he might as well attempt to make a stab at conversation. Perhaps his sarcastic remarks would eventually convince her to leave him be. “I’m on my second journey.” He replied simply before eyeing her eevee. Korra seemed content with her current form, which was a far cry from what his own had been like. Genesis had been eager to evolve, though Ren had to admit that he hadn’t expected to receive an Umbreon. He himself had been leaning more towards Jolteon. He even had the thunderstone at home in his room.

“Do you usually follow people who don’t want you around?” Ren inquired of her as the pokemart came into view. Overhead pidgeotto hovered along, staying close. The flying pokémon landed on the roof of the store when they drew close, content to wait for his trainer to complete his agenda. He fell silent as he opened the door to the shop, not bothering to hold it for Skye.

[Soulserenity20]

This guy sure has some nerve... she thought to herself as she caught the door he let close on her face on their way into the Pokemart. "Do you usually treat people you don't know so rudely?" Just then she got a strange chill down her spine and felt a warm breath on the nape of her neck. Her eyes widened and she turned slowly to see Jimmy standing a few inches away from her face with his usual eerie smile.

"Hello Skye." He said in a smooth, monotone voice. "I haven't seen you in a while, I've been by your house but your mother always insists you're not at home, though I can see Nova Blitz up on your balcony. Is something wrong?" Skye had a disturbed look on her face as she tried to think of a nice way to get out of this awkward conversation. Jimmy was an unusual guy, to say the least. He had a bit of an obsession with Skye and in the past few months he was bridging on stalker. She always thought there was something a little... off about the man; she had overheard her mother talking to her friends about Jimmy's mother doing all sorts of unhealthy things during her pregnancy and that her activities were to blame for Jimmy's unusual personality. She sure didn't know what went wrong and when but something certainly had that led the scrawny, dark haired boy to be so... abnormal.

"Uhh, no. I uh." Before she could say anymore he quickly dashed behind the counter and lifted up a box of miscellaneous goods from the store.

"Well, I saw you coming with your, er, friend with the look of death over there." He gestured towards Ren. "And I took the pleasure of collecting some items I think you might like." Rummaging in the box he pulled out different items as he spoke. "I have a pokedoll, top quality: you like pokedolls don't you? I remember when we were children you used to bring one just like this to school everyday. Of course it took me years to find a replica of the one you used to have, we only carry the latest models of course. But after some searching I found it!" Skye paled; she remembered he used to watch her play with the doll and eventually got rid of it, hoping he would look elsewhere for a person to observe in play. "And I have some pecha berry tarts, I was passing by your house a few months ago and saw you taking out your trash, an empty boxes of these fell out so of course I assumed you liked them. Anyone would." With each item he pulled out she slowly back away, a bothered look on her face.

"Uhhhhh, say, that's all really nice of you and all but uh, I just need a few pokeballs, some full heals and a dozen potions. Nothing else." At her feet, Korra's fur stood on end, she didn't much like the creepiness emanating of the shopkeep either.

"What? You don't want all these beautiful things I've collected for you? I've been keeping them here for years, waiting for a good time to give them to you. And now that you're leaving on your journey through Kanto I won't get to see you every day."

"E-every day...?" She backed up further until she bumped into Ren. Quickly she took a place at his side, creating some idea that he would protect her from the weird fellow before her.

[druple]

”Do you usually treat people you don’t know so rudely?”

Ren shook his head exasperatedly. Mentally, he weighed his options before deciding that honesty was the best policy. “I usually don’t keep people around for long. You’re honestly the longest conversation I’ve had in years.” He replied with no shame. The door swung closed behind them. Ren wasted no time in hastily taking off down the aisles after picking up a basket. He grabbed the necessities for his trip. Potions, antidotes, burn heals..” He named them off internally while at the same time dumping several of each item into his shopping basket. At the door Skye seemed to be involved in a very uncomfortable conversation with the shopkeeper. Serves her right. the trainer thought smugly.

That was when the man’s voice carried through the store. If Ren strained, he could just barely make out parts of the conversation. What he heard was enough to make even his heart sink for Skye. He was taking some unsually bold advances towards the annoying girl. He truly had no shame, and Ren stopped his shopping to actually listen. The weird kid had produced a box of some sort of knick-knacks from under the counter. He was showing her some things while talking animatedly, all the while Skye paled.

”..your friend with the look of death.” The weird guy said, jerking a thumb in his direction. As if in slow motion, he felt the basket in his hands fall to ground making a loud clatter. Did that sonofa- Oh hell no. Ren didn’t care if he was in a foreign land. No-one talked about him in that manner. His pokeball was in his hand, the other balled into a tight fist. With a look of fire in his eyes, he returned to his place at the girl’s side. “I’m going to pretend that you never said that.” He heard himself snarl. “I’m also going to pretend that you aren’t talking to my girlfriend in such a displeasing manner.” Ren felt himself flush again, this time a color more associated to fuschia. He shot a look at the annoying girl. With the hand not clenching the pokeball, he made a point to entwine his fingers with hers.

“Is this guy bothering you my love?” Ren said in the sweetest voice he could muster, before turning his eyes to glare at the freak. “Because I would love to rip someone limb from limb today.” He continued quietly, almost daring this ‘Jimmy’ to step up.

[Soulserenity20]

As Ren's hand slid into her and his fingers wound between hers she could feel an uncomfortable feeling rising up in her. Despite everything that was going on, all she could think about in that moment was how attractive this stranger was and her awareness of how close to her his body was. For a moment she simply stared at him, both thankful and embarrassed. She was torn from her thoughts by his question.

"Huh? Oh, uh, no, he uh, well-" Again she was cut off by Jimmy.

"Gahhhhhhhh! BOYFRIEND?? You don't have a boyfriend! I would know if you did!" He paused mid sentence, quivering in anxiety as he noticed the blonde man's viscous expression and his hand ready on his pokeball. Jimmy may have been a little eccentric and borderline insane but he was not stupid; this trainer had a look of victory about him and there was no way Jimmy's team of a nidoran, rattata and magikarp were going to stand a chance against him. "Buuuuuuut, I don't want any problems. I mean, I would never want to cause my beautiful Skye to get stress wrinkles on her flawless, perfect skin....YOUR! Your beautiful Skye! Was what I meant..." He trailed off for a moment, gazing creepily at Skye before snapping back into the conversation at the second notice of Ren. "Well! Any friend of Skye's is a friend of mine! Uh, look, why don't you just take what you need, on the house? Yeah! My treat! You haven't accepted any of my birthday presents for you in the last 13 years so this can be a great big gift from me to you, maybe you'l think of me on your journey?"

There was no way she was taking anything from his for free, she had always hated the idea of debt and the concept of owing this insane man any favors bothered her to the core. "No, no I couldn't possibly do that. And if you knew me at all you'd know I couldn't. Please, just allow us to purchase our goods and leave. We're already running late, and my darling Ren here doesn't like tardiness, now do you babe?" She curled herself around his arm, resting her head on his shoulder for effect as she gave a (just slightly) snide smile to Jimmy. It was so refreshing to not feel vulnerable to the odd shopkeep. "Now if you'll excuse us." She dragged Ren down the isles, quickly collecting her necessities before slapping down a large pile of bills on the counter, enough to pay for her own and Ren's goods as well. "Keep the change, goodbye!"

Before Jimmy could lift the bills to inhale her scent they were out the door. Skye broke free of Ren's hold, though reluctantly, and sat down on a bench a few few away. Korra lept up on her lap and began licking her hands in a soothing manner. After taking a few moments to recollect herself, she looked over to Ren. She gazed directly into his eyes, so thankful for what he had done. "Thank you." Came her voice in a sincere tone.

[druple]

The shopkeeper obviously knew that he meant business. Ren could hear the touch of fear in his voice, and his smug grin returned. Once he was sure that the danger had passed, he returned Genesis’ pokeball to his belt. He listened to Skye stumble across her words, and watched as Jimmy backed down from the altercation. Ren couldn’t say that he blamed him, it was obvious that this odd man realized that his own skill in battle was a little lackluster. There was no doubt in his mind that his own team would have dismantled the other trainer’s in little more than a second. This odd fellow was obviously very distraught that the annoying girl had a boyfriend.

Ren chose to remain silent and let his new acquaintance handle the rest of the conversation. The strange cashier mentioned something about all of their items for free of charge and Ren felt himself shake his head with a small laugh. There was not a chance in hell, he was taking this stuff for free. Eventually the store clerk backed down completely, and they were allowed to finish their shopping unbothered. The blonde allowed Skye to drag him down the aisles, pausing only to pick up his basket that he had dropped so carelessly before. Once they both had all the items they would need for their respective journeys, he reached into his pocket to pay for all of it. Imagine his surprise when she hastily paid for his items too.

“We're already running late, and my darling Ren here doesn't like tardiness, now do you babe?”

Ren grunted in agreement, seemingly unable to speak. His chest felt awkward, it was almost as if his stomach had grown a pair of wings. Her hand was warm in his, and he was shocked when she took it a step further to rest her head on his shoulder. He wasn’t used to the feeling of another person against his skin, who knew that it would feel so… good? Pushing that thought out of his head, he made his way to the door. This time he pressed it open for the both of them. Once the duo was clear of the pokemart, he felt her release his hand. She made her way over to the closest bench.

Skye took a moment to get her emotions back into check, and Ren took the opportunity to do the same. He felt his face sink back into a half frown. He felt her gaze upon him, and for a moment their eyes connected. Something inside him clicked, but he ignored it pointedly. Instead he broke the eye contact as Pig came to rest on his shoulder with a content coo. The trainer was glad that his pokémon had forgiven him. It would save the embarrassment of having to apologize to the pidgeotto later.

"Thank you." Ren heard her say. He fiddled with his hand for a second before returning her gaze once more. “Don’t mention it. Seriously.” The platinum haired boy responded gruffly. “I just knew that a weakling like you couldn’t handle it alone.”

[Soulserenity20]

Skye's warm smile quickly turned into a sneer as she scoffed at his original personality resurfacing. "Strength has nothing to do with this. 'Weakling'? How would you have any idea how strong I am? Everyone has weaknesses, that doesn't make them weak." She stood up and began placing her good into her rucksack before turning back to face him. "So, Mr. Higher-Than-Thou, you're heading out on a second journey eh? Well that makes two of us. I doubt you have any idea where you're going of course. But a weakling like me knows her way around this place. So I suppose I could return the favour for you helping me back there and show you around."

She strung her bag across her chest and flipped her long hair allowing it to collect in the wind before gathering it up on the side of her neck. She bent down to fix a strewn lace on her knee length boots and stood back up, catching Korra as she leapt up to take her place on her shoulder. "Now if you don't have a specific route in mind, I suggest we head north on Route 6 to Saffron. I'm heading to Pewter City to meet the gym leader Brock, There'll be plenty of gyms on the way if that's what you're after." Pausing, she took a moment to take in the man standing before her. His brow carried heavy burdens brought with him from wherever he came from, his eyes were cold, yet sharp, his hair was loosely strewn about, its blonde tone matching his pale complexion to create a very attractive product. She swallowed realising how close their bodies were only a few moments ago and the slight, spiced scent that emanated from his body. She hadn't noticed it then but she now realised that he probably had a gorgeous build under those clothes for there was little cushion and an obvious firmness pressed against her body during their little charade.

She quickly caught the feeling of her cheeks heating under her blushed face, brought on by her thoughts and looked away sharply, clearing her throat before she moved forward. As she passed him she tugged at the chest of his shirt and smiled, looking him in the eyes. "Besides, it might be nice to have such a strong trainer around." She winked and made her way down the street that led out to Route 6. "Come on, or do need a minute to think of something nasty to say?"

[druple]

At first he was going to refuse her, and leave her standing there. After further pondering, he realized that she would probably follow him anyways. Realizing that it was futile he heaved a heavy sigh. “Fine, but you better not slow me down.” He snapped bitterly kneeling to stow away his own gear. “I owe you for buying me items anyways.” After all of his purchases was put away in the appropriate slots, he raised back up to his full height, taking a second to dust his pants off. Maybe things would work out after all. She knew the surrounding area, and he was interested in challenging the gyms. The quicker that he could complete the quest, the faster he would be on his way home.

On his shoulder Pig looked around chirping happily. The flying type pokémon was clearly ecstatic that Korra and her trainer would be joining them. Ren flashed a look of annoyance to the bird, who responded by pecking him on the top of the head. It was apparent that the two shared a love and hate relationship. “Ow..” The blonde haired man grumbled, and Pig retorted with a twitter. He was positive that the scene looked quite comical, and he was sure to shoot a glare in Skye’s direction ahead of time.

He listened intently as Skye explained the route she was taking to Pewter City. Brock was the first gym leader from what he recalled, so it would work out just fine. It would also give him a chance to get his bearings of the region. Saffron was close to Celadon, which was at the heart of the entire region. From there he was sure that he would be able to find his way to the others if things went sour with the annoying girl. Ren nodded in agreement. “Well since you’re apparently the Kanto genius. You lead, I’ll follow.” He replied with a smug tone. Pig pecked him again. “Quit it you stupid bird!” Ren snapped bitterly before turning his attention to Skye.

She was staring at him with a sort of glazed look in her eyes that suggested she was daydreaming. He gave her a perplexed look. Why was she gazing at him like that? It was a bit unnerving. He snapped his fingers. “Look, I know I’m incredibly cute, but you don’t have to stare at me all the time.”

"Besides, it might be nice to have such a strong trainer around." She shot a wink in his direction, and he flushed. Ren pointedly looked away from the strawberry colored trainer. “Anyways.” He said trying to change the focus of the conversation away from himself. “We should get going right? Or would you rather stare at me some more?”

[Soulserenity20]

Skye simply kept walking. Partly for the fact that she too, was eager to get going, but also because she knew she was blushing at the fact that he had taken notice to her nearly drooling over him moments ago. "I'd be happy to lead. And don't worry, there'll be plenty of time for staring along the way. You are pretty cute you know." She said with a sly tone. In truth, she was blushing harshly but she couldn't control her personality and she was turned away from him as she progressed through the streets to the nearing exit. Skye had always been an open, honest person, despite her nerves and that wasn't about to change because of some handsome stranger. "And you don't owe me anything for your goods, that was me repaying a debt to you for helping me out. Don't make me play this 'who owes who' game. We're even, kay?" She looked back over her shoulder at him with a smile, hoping he would agree that they were on neutral grounds.

"So is your pidgeotto the only pokemon you brought with you?" Small talk would be necessary if this trip was to ever become more relaxed. Not that she could ever really relax being around such an intimidating character, but if she at least got to know him she figured things would get easier. Already she knew he was a bit of a jerk, but his kind favour back in the pokemart led her to believe that his attitude was more of a wall than anything. This got her thinking what made him become so... snide? She recalled the cold look that seemed to linger in his eyes and the statement that he rarely kept anyone around for long. Well, she thought. unless something dramatic happens, he'll have to get used to having me around.

[druple]

” …You are pretty cute you know."

It was his turn to blush, and blush he did. A deep red hue covered his cheeks, and he could feel his face grow hot. It wasn’t every day that someone paid him a compliment. In actuality he had been joking when he teased her for staring. Ren had not expected her to say anything of this caliber. The trainer was unsure of what to say, and as a result ended up stumbling over his words. “I… uh.. c-cute you say.” He clamped his mouth shut. Come on Ren say something, you’re losing your grip. A lump formed in his throat and he swallowed hard. “Well.. you aren’t ugly.”

He could have died. This girl shows up, and he suddenly doesn’t know how to use proper English. What was this black magic? Ren took a moment to calm himself, pointedly looking in any other direction instead forward. He was thankful for the change of subject. She claimed that they were even since he had went out of his way to help her escape such a sticky situation. Ren would have argued, but it was clear that her mind was made up. He never would have admitted this out loud, but he was glad. Money was a bit tight since he was sending most of his battle winnings back home to his mother.

"So is your pidgeotto the only pokemon you brought with you?"

He had been waiting for this moment since they had left the pokemart. Ren shook his head, as he pulled the pokeball from his belt. Worldlessly, he threw it. Genesis’ form appeared, before solidifying The umbreon was visibly confused as to why the girl was there, and immediately retreated behind his trainer. From behind Ren he eyed Skye with a wary look in his eyes. “He’s a bit skittish, so I wouldn’t advise touching him until he gets used to you.” The blonde commented quietly.

[Soulserenity20]

With the shake of his head, Ren triggered the release mechanism on a pokeball from his belt and before her eyes materialized a stunning, muscular umbreon. Before she could blink, Korra was on the ground squealing in excitement, hearts in her eyes. The eevee approached slowly, with a manner of respect about her and began sniffing at the pokemon from the other side of Ren's legs. She did not receive the friendly vibes she was offering but the look in her eyes said she was exactly like her trainer, and umbreon like his. Korra wasn't letting this one go simply because it wanted to.

Skye chuckled awkwardly as her eevee swooned over the umbreon at Ren's legs. "Who'd have known? Korra gets to meet one of her relatives in its evolved form. She's never seen an umbreon." She explained, pointing out the awe and infatuation in Korra's eyes. "Sure is a stunning umbreon though. Obviously takes after its trainer, look at him hiding away, peering out with cold, non-trusting eye. Hmm..." She reached into her bag and rummaged about before pulling out a silver tin. Inside was a collection of home-made poffins she had prepared for her trip. Selecting one, she knelt down and offered it to the pokemon with a warm smile. "Playing hard to get can only work for so long. Eventually it lands you standing still while the rest of the world moves by. Why don't you come on out and say hello? We're going to have to get used to each other eventually. And besides, it looks like Korra's quite smitten with you."

She looked up, refusing to rise until the shy umbreon gave up its defences. "He's alot like you you know- not that I really know you at all- but I mean, you give off the same vibes. It's another beautiful pokemon, that's for sure. I've never seen an umbreon this big and with such muscle definition. Amazing..." She trailed off, observing details of the pokemon while continuing to offer poffins.

[druple]

Ren felt the corners of his lips tug upwards, this was truly a sight to see. Korra was adamant in meeting Genesis, much to the umbreon’s displeasure. He gave a low growl, hastily attempting to avoid the eevee. Apparently unabashed Korra remained relentless in her pursuit. Eventually Genesis conceded, choosing to instead ignore the other pokémon all together. He looked up at Ren with a forlorn look. “I know, they’re annoying. You’ll have to get used to it, they’re both going to be travelling with us for a while.” Genesis replied with a heavy sigh, his ears laid back in obvious annoyance. “Be nice.” The blonde trainer chastised light heartedly.

Ren gazed upon Skye as she offered his pokémon a treat. If there was one thing that Genesis loved more than his trainer it was- As if the Umbreon had read his mind he leapt from behind his trainer’s legs and on the treat, devouring it in one large mouthful. Genesis smacked his lips loudly, enjoying the free meal. “He loves food, he’ll warm up to you in no time if you come with food in hand.” Ren explained with a laugh. Genesis’ ears raised a tad, and he sniffed at Skye’s fingers apparently looking for more.

“Obviously takes after its trainer, look at him hiding away, peering out with cold, non-trusting eye.”

Ren shot a playful glare in her direction. “Yes, and so does your eevee. Look at her absolutely begging for his attention.” He snapped back friskily, with a slight smirk. The annoying girl certainly had a way with words that was for sure. From his shoulder Pig took flight in search of his own meal now that they had exited the city. Ren listened to Skye’s compliments on the well groomed look of his pokémon, and hastily mumbled a thanks. He wasn’t exactly sure how to take her flattery. It wasn’t like he was used to someone paying attention to him, she was the first person that had braved his cold exterior. It was like she was unabashed by his defenses.

[Soulserenity20]

Look at her absolutely begging for his attention. He couldn't possibly think she was begging for his attention could he? Was she being to open with him? Too forward? Skye's brow furrowed as she, for the first time, considered holding back. However, he inner fire refused and she simply ignored his statement, offering another poffin to Genesis before giving a third to Korra. She had noticed that Pig had taken his leave, off hunting no doubt, and so she stored the tin away in her bag. Standing up she looked Ren up and down. "Oh, I'm sorry darling" she said mocking her earlier use of the pet name. "Are you feeling left out? Cause I'd be more than happy to spoil you with attention whenever you need it, and arceus knows you may need it. I don't think I've seen you smile once since we've met. At least not genuinely." She shrugged; some people were just more serious than others.

Reaching to one of two tiny pokeballs clipped to a strap along her bag, she smiled and expanded the contraption. "I guess it's only right I introduce my second partner as well. Come on out!" She said tossing the ball up in the air so as to provide space for the massive arcanine to materialize. "This, is my good friend Nova Blitz. He's like your umbreon in the sense that you might not want to touch him without his consent. He can be a little..." As if reading her mind, Nova snarled lightly at Ren an placed himself at Skye's side, his front leg planted firmly in front of her. "...protective. Calm down Nova, this is Ren and his friend. They're going to be travelling with us and leaving snide comments along the path. Pay him no mind, he seems like a bully but he's harmless."

The fiery canine took a step forward and lowered his massive head to meet Ren's gaze, sniffing strongly at his hair. After a moment he gave something of a nod and backed up. "Nine!" He chuffed and reclaimed his place at Skye's side, nuzzling her cheek, almost knocking her off balance with his weight. All the while he kept his gaze locked on Ren, as if challenging him, saying Come near her, I dare you.. Skye was oblivious to the sly look in her pokemon's eyes and simply shoved him aside.

"Okay okay, you've met our new companions, now get over it." She smirked at Nova. Lifting the empty pokeball up she asked, "Now are you in or out?" Taking Nova's step back as an out she shrugged and pocketed the device. Meanwhile, Korra was crawling up to Genesis with her poffin in her mouth, inching forward in a submissive state with her torso pressed to the ground. "Eee?" She said, offering the treat to the dark pokemon before her. Noticing this, Skye couldn't help but facepalm and shake her head; Korra may as well have been struck with a direct dose of attract for the way she was courting Ren's umbreon.

[druple]

"Oh, I'm sorry darling.."

Ren scoffed at her sarcastic use of the pet name, before replying. “Well, if you just can’t stand my charm…” The trainer trailed off with a smirk. At the mention of his nonexistent smile the trainer’s stature changed, he felt the cold look return to his eyes. How could he have become so relaxed with this girl? There was no point in making friends along this trip. It would only open up vulnerability. Skye unclipped the miniature pokeball from her pack, and enlarged it before throwing it. The smirk on his face deepened when he realized what it was. “An arcanine, huh? I suppose you could have had a worse partner. Fire types can be quite useful in some battles.” A look of shock crossed his face as the beast snarled in his direction. Immediately he felt his cold indifference turn into a brooding anger. “Or they can be completely useless.” He snapped with a glint in his eyes.

At his feet Genesis also let a guttural grumble tear at his chest, folding his lips back to match the dog. I wouldn’t advise that. The umbreon’s demeanor seemed to say, shooting daggers at the much larger pokémon. “I guess it’s a good thing that size doesn’t define strength, huh?” Ren commented in velvet tones, finally breaking eye contact with the fire type pokémon. On the surface, he seemed unabashed by the arcanine. Inside was a different story and Ren was already thinking of battle tactics. It wasn’t that he was picking a fight, but it was much better to be prepared than not. Genesis’ pupils lingered on the bigger pokemon’s form. “Enough.” Ren barked, and the moonlight pokémon tore his eyes from the arcanine at last.

"He's like your umbreon in the sense that you might not want to touch him without his consent."

“Good thing I won’t be touching him anytime soon.” The blonde replied simply. Genesis gave a snort of agreement, before turning his attention to Korra. The eevee was attempting to give him food. His ears laid flat again, as he looked from side to side pondering what to do. Ren knew that it was near impossible for the dark pokémon to turn down a free snack. Genesis’ hunger finally seemed to win out, and he snatched the poffin from the eevee. Pausing for a second, he stared into Korra’s lovesick eyes. Genesis bit the treat in half, letting the other half fall to the ground. Here, take it before I changed my mind. His body language read, as he pointedly looked away from the eevee.