Sarah didn't display a desire to be on top, necessarily, but it seemed enough. Wanting to give her all for the competition was a compatible goal, and she wouldn't be causing any disrespect. Good. "A fine goal. I think you'll do well." She'd have to watch the young lady a little longer, maybe even have a little match against her. Just to be sure she was right for the tournament. But, that could come later. For now, more observation.
"I met Terra, my Flygon, when she was just a little Trapinch. She joined my team after she evolved once. I've always specialized in fighting-type Pokemon, but somehow I was also very good at handling her. Her and Umi, my Lapras. Well, not mine anymore, I released then when I quit being a trainer. If we run into any of my old Pokemon, I'll be sure to introduce you."
"Seems like we're getting close," the Ranger had just stumbled on a rock, causing her to assess her surroundings. As she searched the skies ahead of them, she smiled and held out her arm. Rapier returned, and alighted to her arm. She scratched the bird on the back of the head, "you're back quickly, what did you find?"
Rapier turned to face her properly and gripped her arm repeatedly with alternating feet.
"... Tracks? Sounds perfect. Show us the way when we get close."
The Staraptor took off again, flying just a little bit ahead to land on the next tree.
"Well, sounds like he's found something promising. I wonder how far ahead it is?" She wanted to see this big Onyx. They were normally pretty big, so how big was a big one?