Pokemon: A Trainer's Crutch (LilGunner/BennyQ)

[BennyQ]

Help Wanted!
Pokemon Researcher seeking Help and Caretaker assistance on Mt. Silver Pokemon Ranch.
Must possess at least five Gym badges and be capable of holding their own against wild Pokemon of the hills.
Accepting candidates now! Please see Ranch Manager Aydin Durov.
- Ad posted at local Pokemon Center, Route 28.​

Mount Silver was a wild place. Settled between the two regions of Kanto and Johto, it was the largest mountain and landmark for miles around. And a place where the most fearsome and strongest Pokemon could be found. Few trainers entered here willingly, as the battles along the road were enough to dissuade all but the most determined. In this anvil of conflict and intensity, only the best and strongest survived among the culling. And among those who did, few could forge out their own little fiefs and territories in which to inhabit and train consistently. Trust and strong bonds of fellowship and comradery were needed between one and their Pokemon, for otherwise they would soon fall by the wayside and have to slink home with their tail between their legs.

For Aydin Durov, he had been here for nearly half a decade. He had been a trainer for nearly double that length before. He had battled through the gyms of Johto and Kanto with both successes and failures. He caught many Pokemon, helped some evolve, while struggling to bond with others. He had seen rare and uncommon species in his time. But as he aged, he knew his time as an adventurer was coming to an end. He didn’t have it in his bones anymore to continue on the road, to seek out new challenges, while trying to raise and maintain his steadily growing roster of Pokemon. He decided finally to settle down and raise, to learn all that he could, and more. Luckily, there were a few institutions out there that were happy to assist with would-be researchers like him, especially ones who could indeed cut out their own niches in places such as Mount Silver.

But it was not easy to do so. For a long time he had been unable to find a balance between his work and wanting to raise his Pokemon, his friends and companions through the many years. They were just happy for his attention, though he often struggled to dole it out fairly and to a satisfying end. That is why Aydin needed help, someone to help with the caretaking and raising, while he could finish his mandated work without interruption or further delays. His paymasters had a habit of becoming impatient.

Because of this grant, he had been able to build himself suitable accommodations in the lowlands around Mt. Silver. The wilderness stretched for many miles all about the base of the mountain, with a single road coming in from the west via Kanto, Route 28. There was a small town there, aptly named Silvertown, with the only Pokemon Center for miles around. From there, it was a trek through the wilds to get to Mt.Silver and its surrounding regions. Around to the north, about a day’s travel, was the Durov Ranch. It was a modest estate, with a two storey manor (with a hidden basement level containing his laboratory), and a fenced off land. The manor was classical in look, with arched windows, second floor balconies, and old fashioned furniture, yet it also possessed some elements of modernity, like a phone and computer, as well as a private electrical generator. Enough to power the underground lab where his secret research took place.

It was wedged in a small bowl in the foothills, with rocky cliffs and slopes encompassing the estate on three sides, with a lake’s edge on the fourth. Tall grass and dark trees surrounded it all, containing many species of fierce and hostile Pokemon. Boundaries had been long set and Aydin’s Pokemon knew to respect them, though the wilder ones often crossed over and conflicted with his own. He had many strong specimens to beat them back, such as his Ampharos or his Rhydon, or his lonesome Alakazam or his most powerful, his starter Typhlosion. Aydin however was always shadowed by his trusty Magneton. Or finding his Nidorina eager for pets upon her head.

There were many others. His water Pokemon were led by his rare Dragonair, joined by various others such as a Starmie, Wartortle, Dewgong, Seadra, Remoraid, Cloyster, Chinchou, Poliwhirl, and the haughty Golduck who had an innate need to show off for any of the female specimens. Others included a Raticate, a Spearow, Hoothoot, an Arbok, Golbat, Gloom, Swinub, Venonat, Graveler (which were found in abundance all around Mt. Silver), Sudowoodo, Sneasel, Ledyba, and Jolteon. Always perched on the tallest arch above his front door was his mother’s old Xatu.

And somewhere out there was someone who could help Aydin manage all these Pokemon. It wasn’t hard work. Attached to his manor was a barn, which contained all their foodstuffs carefully marked and scheduled. Feeding itself took two hours, for both the late morning meal and the evening meal. Someone needed to police the boundaries, to make sure his Pokemon weren’t be drawn off by the flocks of Tangelas, Gravelers, or Larvitar-Pupitar who loved to contest those same boundaries. Heavens forbid a tribe of Ursarings decided to camp out nearby. There had been no peace that autumn and winter for Aydin. There were many others too who didn’t like co-habitation with humans or their Pokemon companions. But Aydin persisted in his want for isolation and research. He needed help.

On that very day, there was good news. A message from Nurse Joy at the Route 28 Pokemon Center informed Aydin that someone did indeed seem interested in the position. If only they could make it up there, he thought with a bitter smile. But sitting upon his porch, with his Nidorina and Magneton nearby, he awaited this individual’s arrival. If they made it, that was proof enough of their trainer skill. But sometimes with such skill came arrogance that Aydin could do without. He had to somehow reconcile this need with the demands of the workplace environment he found himself in...

 

[LilGunner]

Kaya Murasakino still hadn't decided if she wanted to head into the Johto region or not. She had spent all of her years, the last seven, strictly in Kanto. She was only missing the Earth badge to be able to make her journey up to the Indigo Plateau. Kaya wanted to face the league so badly but the leader of the Viridian City gym was never there! No one seemed to know who it was or where the hell they were constantly. It was infuriating. Kaya traveled all over Kanto, visiting several places many times but never caught the Viridian gym leader. As time passed and never getting the final badge she had started to wonder if it was even worth it. She wasn't too old but as she approached her mid twenties she needed something else. Either make her way to Johto or settle somewhere in Kanto and do...something. With no real path she finally chose to head to Johto to try her luck with that league. She had to pass through Silver City and, per habit, she stopped by the Pokemon center there.

Such a small town it was quiet. Nurse joy was cheery and pleasant as usual. Kaya turned over her Pokemon, though they didn't really need treatment, and settled down in the waiting room. There a poster caught her eye. A caretaker for pokemon at a ranch...near Mt. Silver? That was odd, she didn't even know there was a ranch up there. A dangerous place for a ranch. It was wild territory with strong Pokemon roaming the wilds. This Ayden must be kind of crazy putting a ranch up there. Still it was something and it was only a half day ride to Viridian City. She could keep dogging that gym until its stupid leader, whoever the hell they were, decided to show up. Maybe this wasn't a totally crazy idea. She would much prefer to finish out league matches in Kanto before leaving for Johto anyways. Besides the fact her Pokemon might love some time to run about totally free at a ranch. She didn't have many, not even in storage, choosing to be selective and focus her attentions on a few rather than try and raise a lot of them.

"Hey...Nurse Joy..." she said as she turned to the counter with the pamphlet in hand. "Do you know this place...?" Her choice was made, the dice were cast.

"Good luck! I will call Mr. Durov to let him know to expect you!" Nurse Joy truly embodied her name. Kaya waved a farewell and thanks to the pink haired woman as she left the center. It would be a long walk and possibly a dangerous walk. Kaya lifted up her demur, sandy colored turtleneck to reveal her belt with six pokeballs. Rapidash, Fearow, Butterfree, and Pikachu were released from their balls. "Ok guys we have a bit of a hike and it's kind of dangerous. So stay alert. Fearow and Butterfree fly above up and keep an eye out for any trouble." Kaya hopped up onto Rapidash's back after a kindly pet. Ever since she evolved Kaya rarely traveled long distance on foot. Hell she preferred to keep her Pokemon out of possible. Lapras wouldn't do so well on dry land and Gloom...well Gloom had been a little odd lately. He wouldn't stop release noxious gasses. All the nurses said he wasn't ill and Kaya couldn't figure out why Gloom was behaving so badly. She could have chosen to evolve him but the last thing she needed was a much larger Vileplume being naughty.

With Fearow and Butterfree circling above and Pikachu on her shoulder they were off at a stately trot down Route 28. It shouldn't be too long before they arrived. They could get there in no time if Rapidash ran at her full speed but there was no need to rush and on unfamiliar roads rushing could be dangerous. So near the mountains it was a little chill for Kaya's taste. She was more than glad to be wearing her warm turtleneck and black leggings. The heat from Rapidash, never too hot but warm as a soothing bath, was more than welcome. Everything was quiet for a long while. Kaya admired the forest around them, glad of a path though. Traipsing around in dark forests was not her favorite activity. Any where dark really. Ever since the Rock Tunnel. She shivered to remember that dark cave, wildly happen where Spearow Evolved and she could fly on his back over the tunnel rather than trying to pass through it ever again.

Fearow gave a sudden, harsh cry. Rapidash slid to a halt. Pikachu's ear perked up. Rustling at the forest edge. Kaya slid off of Rapidash and moved cautiously towards the sound, Pikachu's legs locked and ready to spring. A dark shape moved around in the bushes. "Ok...come out now or go away," Kaya said. Her Pokemon were strong enough she didn't feel the need to make them fight every wild Pokemon they stumbled across. Not unless the wild Pokemon wouldn't back down and away. The shape stopped a moment then a little, brown blurr leaped from the shadows. "Oh...?" Kaya tilted her head at the tiny bear. She had hear of Teddiursas before but hadn't seen on in person. "Wow, Johto Pokemon really do blend with Kanto here huh? Hey little one," she said as she crouched down. The Teddiursa turned it's big, shiny eyes on her in wonder and just a little fear. "It's ok...we're not going to hurt you. Are you out here alone?"

Another harsh cry from Fearow. More rustling but this time it was trees. Out of the shadows loomed three Ursarings. "Oh...crap..." Kaya mumbled to herself as the Teddiursa went currying to the group of Ursarings. Furious roars echoed through the trees as the three Ursarings charged in unison. Her pokemon were well trained. No need for regular rules in the wilds. "Go!" Kaya shouted as she stumbled back. Pikachu leaped to action first with a thundershock. Fearow dove at the Ursaring while Butterfree flew overhead releasing sleep powder. Slowly the Ursaring succumbed to the innoculating effects of the powder and laid down to sleep. Kaya released a slow breath. No one was injured, even the Ursaring were barely affected. "Good job everyone," she said with a proud grin, lavishing pets and affection on her Pokemon. "Ok...let's finish this trip."

There were only a handful more incidents but the group came out only a little tired from exertion. Some food and water would set them to rights. Finally past the trees they came upon a tall manse and sweet pastures for Pokemon. "Ohhh...wow..." Kaya breathed as she looked around. "This place is beautiful!" Rapidash whickered in agreement. Butterfree and Fearow flew closer as she approached the two story home. Kaya blinked at the man seated outfront. Somehow she expected some wizened old geezer. This was a very pleasant surprise. Kaya slipped down from Rapidash's back, Butterfree and Fearow landing on the horse's back, and walked up the porch towards who she assumed was Ayden.

"Hi. You must be Ayden Durov? I'm Kaya Murasakino, Nurse Joy called about me, about the caretaker job," she extended her hand with a bright grin. "If it's still available I'd love the opportunity for the position."

 

[BennyQ]

It was late in the day when Aydin first saw the visitor. He was well alerted to their approach not because of the noise but by the absence of it. The wilderness here was always watchful, always vigilant, curious and ready to spring when something or someone unknown approached. Threat or prey? His own Pokemon had started to become the same way, their usual noises and interactions falling to a cessation when an unfamiliar figure approached. Surely it was who Nurse Joy had informed him about, a potential candidate for his job offer. Needless to say Aydin was quite surprised when he saw her.

He hadn’t expected someone so young to be out here, to have made the journey. Neither did he expect it to even be a her. Or someone so pretty and attractive.

She came riding in on her Rapidash, the strong bond evident by the fact that the horse-creature’s flames was not burning the rider. He was even more impressed by her talents of scouting and awareness by having her Fearow out and about ahead of her. Whatever her age may be, or her looks, she was certainly no push over and knew something about the wilds. As she came nearer and dismounted, Aydin rose from the steps of the porch, flanked by his Magneton which floated just behind his shoulder. A few of his other companions watched from a distance. Who was this newcomer? they chatted to one another. A few only looked the powerful Rapidash up and down and saw a challenge.

But to the girl, Aydin’s smile was warm and welcoming. He had become a master of charisma despite being so sundered here in the wilderness of Mt. Silver. But charisma was apart of the core tenants of his dedicated organization and employer. One hand shoved in his pocket, his other hung by his side as he crossed towards the girl and took her hand in greeting. His blue eyes sparkled like sunlight off a lake. “It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance, Ms. Murasakino.” Aydin answered with a charming smile and a slow, deep voice. He gave her a firm shake before releasing her hand, though he felt a desire to want to hold on longer. “And the job is most certainly available, if you think you’re up for it. Please, come on inside and we can talk further. I’m sure your travel here has made you hungry. You may leave your Pokemon out here if you wish. There’s plenty of water and fodder for them as well.”

With a wave of his hand, he led Kaya into the modest house. Whatever its exterior showed, the interior was very modern and comfortable. The front door opened into a foyer and lobby, with the television on but on mute. It was an open concept ground floor, which meant the living room was shared with the kitchen and dining area. A staircase separated the main floor, with rooms on the other side and a corridor leading to the barn, where all the supplies and maintenance for his Pokemon were stored and kept. Upstairs was several more bedrooms and a study. The hatch leading to the secret basement was carefully concealed away. A fragrant aroma wafted about the room. His adoring Nidorina leapt onto a couch and curled up there.

“Coffee or tea?” He asked, getting a kettle ready. “I hope your trip here was…not very eventful. I have no doubt it certainly had its fair share of obstacles but you seem a competent trainer. The job I have, Ms. Murasakino, is no easy task however. I have thirty odd Pokemon from my travels and my work load has increased to the point where I can no longer give them the care and attention they all need. What I’m looking for,” he said with a soft chuckle, “is someone to help with the mummying side of Pokemon raising and care. Maintaining meal schedules, training, exercise, and oversight. You’ll have to play warden to keep wild Pokemon off the grounds while at the same time keeping mine from wandering off, as they have a habit to do.” He said with a bit of tired dismay but kept his smile fixated all the same.

Whatever her preferred drink was, he brought it over, along with a bowl of diced fruits and even some candy. On the bottom of the mugs were engraved T.R…but that could stand for anything. And who even looked at the bottom of a mug?

“You’ll have lodgings here as well, just in a bedroom down the hall on the main floor.” He himself had a grand ole suite upstairs all to himself. “And the pay I’m sure is quite adequate, not to mention the experience to train and interact with various types of Pokemon, to prepare yourself for others you might catch here, which I fully endorse you doing if you have the opportunity.” Aydin smiled, sipping his drink and watching her carefully. “Now, I hope I haven’t frightened you off with that speech on your expected duties and responsibilities. If it’s not your cup of tea, no hard feelings. Take a hearty meal here, rest up for the night, and you can return on home. But if you are interested…why don’t you tell me a bit about yourself? What badges have you and what Pokemon do you consider your favorite and most loved?” Aydin asked in return, wanting to know more about this indigo haired woman.

 

[LilGunner]

His smile was disarming and his polite greeting was charming. Not to mention the pleasant rumble of his voice, something Kaya didn't entirely expect. With his cool, bookish looks she expected more of a tenor. Never judge a Pokemon by its Pokeball. His grip was warm and firm. Kaya grinned brightly as he told her the position was still available. So she had made it in time! Then again, as far as she knew, few had even passed by that Pokemon center. Perhaps few had seen the ad. He was quick to offer for her to go inside and she stepped to follow but stopped and turned back to her pokemon. "Ok, you guys behave and make some new friends ok?" Butterfree chittered his odd little high sounds, Fearow gave an approving squawk, and Rapidash whickered with a little toss of her head. Kaya laughed quietly and stroked Rapidash's muzzle. "I mean it young lady." With some pets for Butterfree and Fearow she headed inside, Pikachu still on her shoulder.

Inside was somehow both resplendent, cozy, and modern all at once. Kaya turned a slow circle, trying to absorb the entire space. "Huh?" She was startled out of her light reverie of the lovely home and turned around back to Ayden. "Oh! Tea, please," she answered with her hands clasped at the small of her back. She listened as he spoke, smiling over at the Nidorina who hopped up onto the couch just to curl up. Reaching up she lightly scratched Pikachu's red cheeks, feeling the tiniest thrum of electricity from the conductive patches. "Chaaaa," Pikachu happily groaned. The job didn't sounds far too difficult, a lot of work of course but manageable. Meals and a room, especially a guaranteed shower, she was certainly all in for the job. "I imagine it's hard to do all by yourself up here and with so many to watch over." She said with a returned smile to his tired smile.

"Thank you," she said as she gratefully too the hot cup of tea. It had been ages since she'd had a good cup of tea. The perfect thing to warm up after a slightly chilly ride. Her eyebrows raised in mild surprise at the mention of pay. Of room and board was included she wasn't entirely expecting pay as well. Whoever this Ayden was he must come from a wealthy family or something. Maybe even a wealthy benefactor? She couldn't help an amused grin as he quickly offered for her to back out of the job already. Hard work didn't frighten her off. His questions came as a mild surprise, more so about her 'most beloved' Pokemon. "Well uh...here..." she said as she reached into her belt. Just a tiny, thin case holding seven badges. Mild annoyance and embarrassment flitted across her face. "I haven't been able to track down Viridian's Gym leader, that's why I haven't even left Kanto yet. He's just...never there! The jerk." Kaya heaved a small sigh as she tucked away the small badge case.

"Though I...don't think I have a favorite or most loved," she said with a softer smile as she stroked Pikachu's ears. "I guess...well I haven't 'collected' many Pokemon over the years. Everyone I have I just sort of...clicked with, I guess." She hesitated and stopped petting Pikachu, her hand drifting to her belt. Lapras and Gloom still rested in their balls. Lapras just needed to be released in the water but Gloom...But she couldn't bring up her one bad habit Pokemon just after getting offered the job. She only had six Pokemon and one of them was quite troublesome. Quickly she wiped the saddened, worried look off her face with a smile. "They trust me and I trust them, so I guess that's what is important right?" Despite the hesitation she seemed quite assure of that.

"Honestly, even if I went to Johto I'm not even sure I'd catch any more. I have the perfect team after all," she said with a small laugh. All the while, once the pets had stopped, Pikachu was eyeing the candy bowl. He was a glutton for sweets. Slowly he inched to Kaya's other shoulder, ready to leap for the candy and scurry off with a piece. Taking his chance he used Kaya's arm as a springboard and dove at the dish of candy. "Pikachu!" She shouted in her surprise, tea splashing down her front. "Ah...shit...damn it," she pulled her sweater forward, the tea hot against her skin. Pikachu landed right on the dish, flipping it and sending candy everywhere. "Ah! I'm so sorry!" She shouted as she snatched up Pikachu by his scruff, he managed to get four candies in his mouth before she caught him.

"See now I was just giving you praise...glutton. Spit them out," she demanded, her hand infront of his face. Pikachu gave a high whine but opened his mouth, fourth wet and sticky candies tumbling into her hand. With a low sigh she set him down. "Now I think you owe Mr. Durov an apology and should clean up you mess." The sweeter smile utterly gone she was suddenly more like a scolding mother. Pikachu's eyes glistened some and he gave a low "chuuuuuuuu" before turning to Ayden. "Pikachu," he simply said with a little bow before starting to pick up the candies. "I'm sorry Mr. Durov...he's always had a weakness for sweets." Finding the trash she tossed the candies out and sighed, looking down at her sweater. Hopefully laundry was included in the board. Grabbing the hem she pulled the turtleneck off. Beneath she wore a simple, thin, white camisole. Her Pokeball belt easily visible on her hips were the camisole and black legging just barely met

 

[BennyQ]

Any flow of electricity was immediately appreciated by Magneton, who silently began to hover closer and closer to the static Pikachu. The magnets around it’s body began to even crackle lightly, as if the magnet Pokemon was in some state of euphoria from the strong currents.

Aydin nodded to Kaya’s overview of the fact. He was simply too busy and there was simply too much Pokemon that he caught. He couldn’t release any, as he loved and appreciated all of them too much. They were his family. However, he was stuck between responsibilities and could use a helping hand in taking care of each. He knew the Pokemon would always stick by them but they deserved the royal treatment they each merited. And so far Kaya seemed like a loving and caring young woman, as evident by her own relations with her Pokemon. They seemed to love her and were strong and healthy. She had the right inherent abilities for the job. It just remained to be seen if she could handle the shock sensation of essentially being in a Pokemon warzone out here in the wilds of Mt. Silver.

Maybe it would ruin her.

But the sun was still bright and shining outside to think such thoughts of despair. She was willing to take the job and that was more than Aydin could hope for. There would no doubt be a short transitional period as he guided her through the major guidelines of overseeing all his Pokemon but soon enough he’d be right back fully immersed in his research. No more distractions. No more having to investigate sounds of fighting and even explosions on the periphery of his little estate. Heck, he might even get a hour or two to relax all to himself, in a hot bath or with a good book or television show. He had to put some faith in Kaya. As long as she didn’t ask any questions or start her own investigations as to why he was out here doing what he did. By all means he needed to come off as a retired, successful Pokemon trainer who wished to raise and breed rather than fight and battle anymore.

He smiled when she showed him her badges. Seven, all from Kanto, almost equal in number to his thirteen, eight from Johto and five from Kanto. He sipped his tea as he thought of his own brief adventures in Kanto, where he spent two years trudging through the wilds there or visiting its great cities. He hadn’t battled the Viridian Gym Leader either. It always seemed to be under new management. The current Gym Leader when he had been about that area had been someone known enigmatically only as Blue. Though his expression was concealed by his raised glass, he did have a curious look when Kaya flashed a momentary look of sadness before continuing her tale. She had lots to speak of certainly, giving Aydin quite a picture of who she was.

If Pikachu eating out of his candy bowl had been a problem, he would have stopped it. Instead he said nothing, watching with bemused eyes as she struggled and lectured her electric Pokemon back into line. “It’s no problem at all! They are for communal use.” He simply laughed it off, while she forced the candy out of Pikachu’s mouth. It obeyed, after a short protest. So she wasn’t afraid to have some backbone! That was good. “I accept.” He said to Pikachu during his apology and chuckled when Kaya apologized again. “I too have a weakness for…sweet things.” He said with a look over her, especially when she removed her sweater. Was she basically declaring this her new home even before he offered her the job? It was only a formality though at this moment. She was definitely getting it.

“You can wash that tonight as you get settled in.” He explained, which all but confirmed her hiring to the position. It was hard not to look at the little space between her leggings and her undershirt. “There is a washer, dryer on the main floor, just over there. You’ll pass it on the way to your room, last on the left.” He pointed, taking her empty cup of tea to wash, rinsing them out. “There’s a bed, closet, and an older computer-phone you can use, in case you want to contact your folks. We’ll unfortunately have to share the only bathroom in the building, which on the second floor. First door though as you go up though, so you can’t get lost. Where are you from by the way? Myself, am a Goldenrod City boy.” He said with a smile. And a city that once suffered a hostile takeover of its Radio Tower by Team Rocket. So daring and rash.

“Shall I give you a tour of the premises? We’ll begin you tomorrow, bright and early, at 7:30am. Today we’ll just have a meander about. I’ll show you the grounds and give you some idea what you’ll have to do and where you’ll be working mostly.” Aydin offered, gesturing down the main floor hallway to the door at the end, nearest to the bedroom he had assigned her. Leading her down, he showed her the barn first. It was the size of a two-vehicle garage, with two great tables in the midst and surrounded by many shelves stocked with crates and jars. All full of Pokemon food. Some were labeled with the faces of Pokemon, whereas others were All-Sorts, to be given as snacks or lesser meals to any of them.

“Some of my friends have diets specific to their types, whereas others can eat generally anything. Only nine require personal feeding, the others can be fed in groups. Their schedule is a light snack at daybreak, followed by lunch, then dinner at sunset. My Alakazam for instance only eats pudding. And you need not bring him any spoons. Well, if you can even find him during his mediations. Not all eat three times a day however. This should take up most of your time, as you’ll have to bring them in singles, or twos and threes, to eat here. Outside, it’ll just attract the wild Pokemon.” He said, flicking a button which opened a large door to the grounds outside, with the forest line not far off. “Which brings us to another point. You’ll spend the other half of your time policing.”

He walked outside, hands in his pockets, looking at the grounds. From the front of the house, they looked to the low foothills, all covered with dark pines. There seemed to be some light rumbling and dust clouds. His Rhydon was moving boulders, digging tunnels, doing his own thing. He often conflicted with Gravelers and Onyx’s though in his holes. To the northeast however was a blackened pit that just screamed keep away. “Most of the time, the wild Pokemon will wander onto the grounds. It’s not their fault really but they just can’t help but battle sometimes with mine. And not all of mine are strong enough to repel them on their own. But the ones who are strong enough…well, there’ll be your main problem. They like to battle.” Aydin said with a small smirk. Well, that sort of came from him and his early days. “Did you encounter any of the local inhabitants on your way up here?”

 

[LilGunner]

Not only was she glad to hear there was laundry but the way he spoke gave her strong hope and assumption the position was still her. Kaya grinned, draping the tea stained turtleneck over her arm; hopefully she would be able to get the stain out. The bathroom situation seemed odd. She would have to consider getting a long robe or something, especially if she had to transit the house to bathe. All the while Pikachu was cleaning up the candies he had toppled all over the place, righting the bowl and putting them all back. While clearly pouting he was diligent in his cleaning efforts.

"Oh, I'm from Cinnabar Island," she said after a moment, looking up at where the bathroom was. Kaya nodded at his offer of a tour, utterly undaunted by the 7:30 start time for feeding. Before following she paused and looked at Pikachu who was just finishing up cleaning. "Good job, thank you," she said gently to the little electric mouse. Bending over she scooped him up and grabbed a piece of candy from the bowl. "No more shenanigans, ok?" She said as she offered him the piece of candy. "Chhaaaaa!" Pikachu shouted in delight with a nod and took the candy, happily stuffing it in his mouth. "Pi-pi-pi-pi," he mouthed through the candy as Kaya turned to catch up with Aydin.

The large barn was impressive, neatly lined with food for all of his Pokemon. She noted they were well labeled so at least there wouldn't be any confusion. Purple eyebrows rose in surprise at the volume of different diets. He really took their feeding seriously. Suddenly she understood why he needed help. Feeding them would have to take at least two or three hours. "Pudding?" She asked with am amused laugh. That didn't sound like a very healthy diet. Maybe it was special in a way. With nutrients or something. Her head tilted when he mentioned policing. Patrolling the grounds she assumed. There didn't seem to be much of a barrier between his land and the forest where strong, wild Pokemon lived. Kaya continued to follow beside Aiden, the stop of her head right at his shoulder level. She shivered a little and rubbed her bare arms when the wide door was opened and the chilled mountain air blew in.

"Oh I see, alright," she said with a slow nod as he explained. So no barriers at all. She was amazed that he lived up there all by himself. It really sounded like her days would be full, keeping watch and feeding all of the Pokemon. "We ran into some Ursarings, three of them. If I can help it I try not to fight too many wild Pokemon any more," she said as she gave Pikachu's chin a scratch. "Butterfree just put them to sleep. They should be awake by now," she said with a small tilt of her head. With the small tilt her eyes landed on the blackened pit. "What is that over there?" She asked, gesturing toward the pit. "Kind of looks like a fire type got a little crazy," she said with a small laugh. "Growing up on Cinnabar I've seen a lot of that." With another chilly gust of wind she shivered and rubbed her arm. "Also not used to this mountain air," she added with another laugh.

Though she was quickly distracted by a distant glimmer, one she recognized well. "Oh! Is that a lake?" She asked stepping forward with a broad grin, pointing to the faint shimmering. "Oh Lapras would love that," she said with an affectionate touch of one of the pokeballs on her belt. "He doesn't get to spend a lot of time out of his ball." Neither did Gloom but not for a lack of mobility on land.

 

[BennyQ]

“Yogurt would be a more suitable term but my Alakazam is spoiled rotten for it, ever since he was a little Abra. But try telling a top tier Psychic pokemon that pudding is bad for them. And they’ll sense it in your mind too. So you got to lie, lie to yourself too even.” Aydin explained, giving a shrug. He probably shouldn’t have told Kaya that either. One can control what slips out of their mouths a lot easier than what ran through their minds.

He listened to her tale about the mob of Ursarings and nodded to her. He knew how dangerous they could be. Adorable, yet far from harmless. But they were the least of Aydin’s worries. Her tactic of putting them into an induced sleep and simply avoiding the combat was a smart one. He followed her finger and gaze towards the blackened barrow at the base of the ridge, all lined with barren trees in a modest circle before the thick greenery sprang up again. It was like a blot on the land and it wasn’t caused by no wild Pokemon, but his own. Her attentions though were quickly diverted to the nearby lake, one of many unnamed bodies of water located around the mountain.

Would it be too familiar if he put his arm around her, to help shield her from the mountain chill? He stuck his hands into his pockets just to be safe. She was gorgeous.

“Well be sure to let your Lapras out then when you get the chance. You’ll have the chance to introduce them to my own water types. They are generally friendly and will band together if there’s any water borne threats.” Aydin explained, before turning towards Kaya as if to share a very great conspiracy with her. “There is a powerful Pokemon about. A Poliwrath. King Poliwrath, I call him. He leads an army of Poliwhirls and Poliwags. Extremely dangerous.” He informed her with a smile. So many dangers. Wild packs of Tangelas and Ursarings. Onyxs in the ground. Gravelers and Geodudes all about the mountain side, disguised as boulders. The constant fighting between them and any trainer kept them strong and wild.

“And you’re right, that is my fire type back there. The grumpiest of them all. My Typhlosion.” Aydin explained to her. “You don’t have to feed him. He’ll make it known when he’s hungry. He sleeps most of the time though, unless there’s a real fight to be had. And nothing we’ve discussed so far would be considered a real fight to him.” He remarked with a shake of his head and pursued lips. Typhlosion was his starter, ever since he was a small lad. Just him and his Cyndaquil through many and long journeys.

“Forget him though. Come. I’ll introduce you.” Aydin then said, gesturing for her to follow towards the lakeside. A few Pokemon saw his coming and excitedly began to meander over to him. More than two dozen emerged when Aydin clapped his hands loudly and beckoned them. Soon a small circle formed. From the water, a Dragonair popped her head out, followed by the top half of a Starmie and Seadra. Remoriad, Closyter, Chinchou, and a Poliwhirl that Aydin had caught here also emerged. Dewgong slipped out onto a rock, followed by Wartortle. From the ground and the tall grass came a Raticate and a Venonat popped out with wide eyes and a Graveler and Sudowoodo followed after. He had his own Gloom too. A Sneasel, Ledyba and Jolteon came from around the house. A Hoothoot, Spearow, and a Golbat watched from a tree. An Arbok emerged from the grass, large and enigmatic.

The ground shook. Rhydon came stomping over. Ampharos followed, eyes shut as she waved her stubby arms in greeting. Magneton and Nidorina she knew, with Nidorina hiding between Aydin’s feet. Alakazam hovered in the shade of nearby trees, bored but answering the call of its master. But Typhlosion did not come. His mother’s Xatu remained where it had always been, perched atop the house, watchful.

In front her slid a Golduck, arrogant and prideful. Standing in front of Kaya, he snapped up his arm and showed off a bulging bicep with a great exclamation. “Golduck!” He cried, offering Kaya to touch it.

“Get out of here.” Aydin said to the water duck type with a laugh. “Guys, girls, this is Kaya Murasakino. And she’ll be taking care of you. So show her the respect you would show me, or I’ll know the reason why. Got it?” They answered him with a chorus of their names and grunts. Some, like Rhydon and Alakazam, looked unimpressed. Wartortle thought he was too cool to even grace Kaya with a look.

“Anything you want to say to them?” He offered Kaya. Behind him, his slow ice-type Swinub was still trying to crawl his way over.

 

[LilGunner]

Kaya logged that bit of information. Yogurt, but call it pudding. Just assume it is pudding. Strange but if that was the way things were then she would have to just go with it. If she were honest she would feed him what he needed, not what he wanted. Pikachu would eat nothing but candy if he could but that wasn’t nutritious enough. Still they weren’t her Pokémon and she would have to respect Aydin’s wishes. His confirmation that it was, indeed, a mountain lake made her deep purple eyes sparkle in delight. Lapras would be so happy to spend more than a couple of hours outside of his ball. She looked up at he turned to share an apparent secret. Her eyes widened a little at the not-so-secret secret. An army of Poliwhirls and Poliwags? Led by this “King” Poliwrath. It was surprising to be certain. The area certainly did seem to be fully of dangers from wild Pokemon. At least it was far enough out of the way that he likely didn’t have problems with trainers wandering by. Most of all those dirty bastards: Team Rocket.

She turned and looked back to the dark patch she had asked about, before getting utterly distracted by the shimmering lake. A Typhlosion did all of that? A big, grumpy Typhlosion. Being from Cinnabar Kaya did like fire types, despite only having one herself, but a massive and cranky one sounded like a terror. She noted Aydin’s pursed lips with the explanation. Had something happened between him and his Pokemon? If she remembered right Typhlosion was the final form of the tiny, cute Cyndaquil, a typical starter from Johto. Kaya couldn’t help a small, sad smile. He had a fire type starter too and there were troubles with it. Funny how life was.

“Alright,” she responded with a bright grin, following Aydin in his wake down to the lake shore. Kaya couldn’t help but look around in delight. The scenery was beautiful even if it was a little too chilly for her tastes. Already Pokemon began emerging with their approach. The excited chirps and squawks, growls and odd utterances of names surrounded them as his Pokemon began appearing from everywhere. So many! She had never seen so many different Pokemon in one spot before! Even in the Safari Zone Pokemon tended to travels in packs and herds. “Oh wow…this is amazing,” she whispered quietly as they all emerged. Kaya was glad to see a couple of water dwellers, Lapras would have some friends!

“What is that…?” She looked around as the ground beneath them rumbled. Not hard to miss as the massive, and very heavy, Rhydon tromped over with an Ampharos right behind, adorably waving its arms in delight. Kaya noted the enigmatic Alakazam at the tree line. Had to remember: pudding. A sudden blur of blue caught her eye and she looked over to see a tall Golduck right in front of her, snapping into a pose more suited for a Machop of Machoke. Kaya laughed along with Aydin and leaned over at the hips. She reached out, obliging the silly Golduck, with a light squeeze to his less than impressive flex. “So strong,” she said with an affectionate pat to his head.

With Aydin’s introduction Kaya bowed, Pokemon deserved as much respect as humans did after all. This commanded seemed to be greeted well enough. Though she noted a few that hardly seemed to care. Wartortle and Rhydon for certain might end up being trouble. The others seemed happy enough to have someone else to help take care of them. “Uhm…I am very pleased to meet all of you,” she said with another polite bow. “I hope we can all be good friends. I have some of my own Pokemon here too.” Kaya turned and stuck her fingers in her mouth. A sharp, shrill whistle echoed through the grounds. A flashing spark ignited by the house as Rapidash galloped over with Butterfree and Fearow flying above. Pikachu still sat on her shoulder, looking at all of the other Pokemon with a healthy dose of apprehension.

Kaya patted Rapidash on the muzzle as Fearow and Butterfree landed on her back. Clearly Rapidash was fine with Fearow and Butterfree being on her. “Hopefully all of you will become friends too,” she said with a small laugh. “Oh, Lapras!” Kaya reached to her belt and grabbed a ball. With a decently far toss the ball hit the water with a splashing plunk. In a red flash Lapras appeared. Normally Lapras were decently large Pokemon, this one was particularly massive. Not only being male but he was just much larger than most of his specie. He gave a delighted, high pitched sort of cry before leaning his massive head down to greet all of the new Pokemon.

Standing back with Aydin Kaya was happy to watch his Pokemon and hers greet each other. Even Pikachu, eventually, crawled down to say hello to the others. Of all her Pokemon Rapidash was the most standoffish, shaking her fiery mane and moving away from others who were too interested in saying hello. With no intended puns Butterfree was the most social of all, even trying to immediately be friends with the like of Rhydon and Wartortle. Pikachu was delighted to meet his fellow electric types. The sun was setting and it was getting colder and colder. Eventually Kaya had to admit defeat and get out of the evening chill. The meeting had gone well enough she felt comfortable letting her Pokemon stay out of their balls. With some affectionate pets it was time to head in.

Kaya was more than ready to settle in for some sleep. Before that she had to clean up her sweater and pray it would dry overnight. Sleep in a comfy bed with a roof and everything! “Goodnight Mr. Durov and thank you again.” At some point she needed to consider going to town for some better pajamas than just her underwear. After a very quick shower, no bath for the time being, she headed back downstairs and off to bed. Ever at her side Pikachu curled up in the crook of her arm to sleep while the others remained placidly outside. All but poor Gloom.

So often sleeping outdoors Kaya was more than used to waking with the sun. She yawned widely and stretched. Pikachu grumbled sleepily, nestling back into the covers as Kaya dressed. The selfsame leggings but a different camisole. Her turtleneck was just slightly damp but it would provide a bit more protection against the chilly mountain air. Still yawning Kaya walked out to the living space. Normally, on the road, coffee was a treat. Aydin wouldn’t mind if she made some right? Better to beg forgiveness and all that, so Kaya went ahead and began brewing some coffee for the morning. It was very refreshing. The clean air with a good night’s sleep. Kaya leaned against the window and watched as the sun turned the sky from golden pinks to rich oranges and blue. Beautiful.

 

[BennyQ]

Everyone seemed to be getting along and everything was starting out without complication or snag. His Pokemon liked Kaya and Kaya in turn seemed to like them. She brought her own Pokemon out, who were received and greeted by the majority of his, except for a few of the grumpier ones. Tough guy acts, very permeable. Her own Pokemon were beautiful though. Her Rapidash thundered over, faster than anything he had seen, albiet aloof as well. Another toughie, Aydin figured. Her Lapras let out a squealing cry of greetings to his fellow water-types. He had to push his glasses up to his eyes to make sure he was seeing it right too. The specimen of Lapras she had was huge! Very impressive indeed.

It was a tranquil scene. The sun was setting and in this mountainous, pseudo-warzone, it was nice to see Pokemon getting along and being affectionate. The thunder-types, Magneton, Ampharos, Jolteon, and her Pikachu all got along. The water-types were swimming circles around Lapras in some strange dance. Their Glooms were spreading some kind of powder all around them, creating this pollen filled dead zone that was probably paralyzing, sleep inducing, or poisonous, or all three. His Gloom however seemed rather disappointed by hers and they separated soon after. Her Butterfree was gregarious with all and was met with equal delight by others.

Night was fast coming. For some, like Sneasel, Hoothoot, and Golbat, nighttime was their element. The others moved to their bushes, trees, or light barrows to rest. A few were permitted into the house. “And you, Ms. Murasakino. I know you had a long journey so I can cover this night, if there should be any alarm. I have sensors around so if any Pokemon wanders on or wanders off, we know about it.” He told her. “Have yourself a good night.” Leaving Nidorina to sleep on the couch, he went upstairs with his Magneton behind him and into his bedroom. Quietly, he locked the door…and then sighed.

Finally, some peace and quiet. He really hoped Kaya would work out, for he was far behind schedule and needed a good week without interruption to catch up. Mr. G would be expecting a progress report very soon. For him, the night was still young. He went to his desk, opened up his specialty laptop, and began to formulate the beginnings of a report. It would be some time before he slept. Fortunately, there was no incident that night.

But tomorrow morning, he intended to help transition Kaya and his Pokemon into the new state of things. He wasn’t going to hold her hand. He would watch and render assistance if she asked or seemed hopeless in what she was doing, but other than that he would let her find her way. So far it was off to a good start as he came downstairs, showered and freshly dressed, glasses in hand as he closed his eyes and took several deep inhales of the strong scent of coffee. Now that was a plus to having a helper on hand. “Good morning.” He beckoned sleepily. “You’re ready for the breakfast hour?” He took care of their breakfast first, a simple mix of bacon, scrambled eggs and toast with jam.

He was just about to wash the dishes when there came a flurry of Pokemon cries and shrieks from the lakeside. “From one frying pan and into another.” He said as he ceased soaping up the pan. He could only hope it wasn’t King Poliwrath and his crew, deciding to repay Aydin’s rumor-mongering. He rushed outside and to the lake, where he found several of his water-types up against the shore line. Seadra, Remoraid, Chinchou, and Cloyster were in a semi-circle, their backs to the shore, while Starmie, Golduck, Wartortle, and Dewgong stood slightly above on ground. They looked uneasy, but clung in a pack out of solidarity. His Poliwhirl, a new addition, wasn’t quite sure and was further inland. Dragonair was out by herself a little ways ahead, facing the water and whatever danger lurked underneath. Kaya’s Lapras was there too.

The surface of the lake bubbled and with a mighty roar, a monstrous Gyrados burst forth. Several Pokemon cringed, though Golduck flexed a pose. Dragonair gave her own shrill cry in challenge but she was many times outsized. None of his Pokemon seemed to have a mass capable of confronting the Gyrasdos. Well Lapras did.

Magneton bristled with electricity but Aydin shot up his hand in refusal. “No! You’ll shock the waters and hurt more than the Gyrados.” He instructed Magneton with a frown. Rhydon was at a disadvantage. Ampharos was limited too. Typhlosion would not come forth. Alakazam…maybe.

There was no time to arrange it. Gyrados let loose a mighty roar and energy gathered before its mouth, before unleashing a mighty Hyperbeam. Dragonair matched it with her own beam, Dragon Rage. The two blasts connected and an explosion rocked the water, causing waves to crash along the shore. Smoke covered the battlefield for a moment and all Aydin could see was his Dragonair, panting a little hard. She had no time to react when Gyrados burst forth out of the water again, much closer, and delivered a smacking tail whip that knocked Dragonair clean out of the water. Aydin ran to her side, his hands on her. She was hurt and needed a moment to recover. But the Pokemon had been his best water-type. The others had no chance. He needed his Alakazam, but looking over his shoulder…the Psychic type was not even around…

 

[LilGunner]

Kaya looked over her shoulder as Aydin came down, appreciatively inhaling the smell of coffee in the air. "Good morning," she replied having already started on her coffee her response a tad more chipper. "Breakfast sounds fantastic." Boy did she know she made a wise choice to work for Aydin. A bed and roof, coffee in the morning and a guaranteed breakfast? Absolutely nothing like sleeping out in the wilds with no guarantee of safety, both from Pokemon and the weather, or of a morning meal. The sizzling scent of bacon and eggs filled the air, enough to make her mouth water and nearly drool like Gloom. It was a pleasant and quiet morning as they ate their breakfast. "This is delicious!" Kaya said in earnest between bites. Certainly five star gourmet compared to foraging for berries. Regardless, it was a fantastic meal. She shared a little of her portion with her spoiled Pikachu. Aydin had asked who her favorite was, maybe unknowingly it was Pikachu. Kaya got up to help with the dishes if nothing else than to dry them and put them away while Aydin washed.

Icy prickles crept up her skin at the sudden shrieks and cries. Kaya was quick on Aydin's heels as they ran out of the house. Pikachu followed right after the two humans. At the lake lay an odd scene. All the water Pokemon huddled together, those that could manage on land up on the banks, the others as far up the banks as they could go. Dragonair and Lapras were the only ones further out in the water. Lapras was silent and still, staring down the frothing bubbles. "What-" was all Kaya managed to say before the Gyrados burst forth from the boiling water. "Holy shit!" Despite knowing something was there the sudden appearance and sheer size of the Gyrados startled her. "Pi!" Pikachu echoed in his own startled surprise. The Gyrados was quick to attack and Dragonair, clearly the bravest of the lot, did her best. The explosion of their clashing attacks sent shockwaves through the air and deep into the belly. Yet poor Dragonair wasn't enough. They could only watch as she was smacked out of the water with a mighty tail whip. As Aydin ran to her Kaya looked up at the Gyrados as it roared its challenge.

Kaya stuck her fingers in her mouth and whistled for her Pokemon. Pikachu hopped onto her shoulder as Rapidash arrived wreathed in flames with Butterfree and Fearow hot on her trail. "Ok you guys let's do this!" It seemed crazy but she hopped on Rapidash's back and they ran for the shore line. "Lapras, use ice beam. Freeze Gyrados in the water and make us an ice bridged." Lapras' response was swift. Rearing his head back with a haunting, echoing cry the powerful ice gathered in. The beam shot forward, first at the base of Gyrados where his body disappeared beneath the water. From there Lapras swung his head making a bridge of ice from Gyrados to the shoreline. Rapidash leaped onto the ice bridge, her hooves hissing as they hit the ice. "Pikachu! Light screen! Stay here and keep it up to protect the other Pokemon!" Pikachu nodded and hopped off his ride. "Chu!" His red cheeks lit up and a brilliant flash shimmered before him and the other Pokemon. It wasn't a full defense but if any stray attacks came their way it would greatly reduce any damage.

A good thing too as Gyrados thrashed, pinned in place by thick and heavy sheets of ice. He roared in frustration and leashed another beam. A wild shot that flew off into the forest. "Keep up that ice Lapras!" Kaya called as Rapidash ran along the ice path toward the Gyrados. She reached to her belt and grabbed Gloom's poke ball. The only one who didn't get released yet. "OK Gloom, we need you." The ball landed right at the base of Gyrados and they tiny Gloom materialized. He froze a moment and stared up at the Gyrados who roared and thrashed to be free. Kaya nearly gagged, already able to smell Gloom's terror. "It's ok Gloom, it's ok! Use your stun spore! Butterfree use sleep powder! Fearow use whirlwind, keep those powders swirling around Gyrados!" Rapidash slid to a stop as the orders were issues and the others were quick to obey, even the terrified Gloom. A whirling tornado of stunspore and sleep powder swirled around the massive dragon Pokemon. It roared in defiances even as it was enveloped in paralyzing powders. "Enough!" Kaya called out. Every Pokemon stopped. The swirling winds halted and the remaining dusts settled into the water. Gyrados was no longer thrashing, his eyes heavy, long body shaking. He swayed on the spot. "Rapidash back to shore, take Gloom," Kaya hissed. Rapidash made a small face but gave a small chuffing sigh in agreement. She picked up Gloom and ran back to shore.

Too tired all of a sudden the Gyrados couldn't keep himself up anymore. He fell, bending where the ice held him. His massive body collapsing into the water sending up a mighty wave. "Oh...shit..." Kaya said, staring up at the wave before it came crashing down. The ice bridge broke as part of Gyrados' body collapsed on top of it. The water settled buy Kaya was gone. Lapras gave a startled cry and plunged his head into the water. Barely a moment later he came back up, holding Kaya by her turtleneck. She coughed and spluttered a moment before laughing. "Thanks Lapras, put me by Gyrados will you?" Lapras obliged her and gently set her on the free floating ice. Soaked and dripping her steps were unsteady given the slickness of the ice but she doggedly moved to the fast fading Gyrados. It made low, pitiful sounds as it blinked its bleary eyes as the approaching human. "Hey...hey...shhhh it's ok," Kaya said gently as she approached.

Reaching out she laid a hand on the three pointed crest between his slowly blinking eyes. "I'm sorry we had to do this to you but you scared everyone." Gently she stroked the crest as she looked him over. Besides the paralysis and the sleep powder he wasn't any worse for the wear. The whole event had been odd but there had been no time to think, just act. Now that all had settled down Kaya could wonder why the Gyrados suddenly appeared and attacked. A shame it wasn't easier to talk to Pokemon, despite their intelligence. Kaya looked over Gyrados again. His scales shimmering and glossy in the morning light. Then she noticed several spots along his body where the scales were damaged, missing or shattered. Clearly it wasn't from their attacks either. "Looks like we weren't the first ones you fought huh? How about you stay with us then?" Gyrados' eyes narrowed a moment as though confused. After a few moments it made a small, high little roar sound, eyes closing as if smiling. Kaya grinned and laughed quietly. "Ok then," she said as she took out an empty ball. With a light toss the ball bounced off of Gyrados' side. In a bright, red flash he caught caught. The ball didn't even light up or wiggle, there had been no struggle. Kaya smiled as she picked the ball back up. "We'll take good care of you. Promise," she said to the ball.

Kaya waved Lapras over. He gave an excited little cry and lowered his head to her. "You did so good! I'm proud of you," she said with an affectionate hug to his face. Lapras gave another delighted cry and lifted. His head with Kaya still holding on. She laughed as he easily picked her up and swam for shore, depositing her on the land. "Pika pi!" Pikachu ran up and jumped onto Kaya. Butterfree, Rapidash, and Fearow all joined. Gloom stood off and well away from the group. "You all did really good," she said while lavishing affection of each Pokemon. Kaya paused and looked over at Gloom. With a hard swallow she moved towards him, holding her breath. Gloom looked up but jerked his face away. "Gloom I..." she stared but gagged and coughed. Even after that Gloom still wouldn't stop emitting that eye watering odor. "Gloom can't we...?" But Gloom huffed and shot a little of his stun spore her eyes. "Fine then, return," she said and recalled him to his ball. "Oh Gloom..."

Finally Kaya went over to Aydin and Dragonair. "Is she ok?" She asked, crouching down beside them. "We might need to go to town and take some of them to the Pokemon Center soon," Kaya suggested. "Dragonair is really brave, standing up to Gyrados like that. You must be really proud of her," Kaya added with a grin.

 

[BennyQ]

“Alakazam…!” Aydin was beginning to shout, summoning forth the Pokemon he thought most suitable for this task. Half of his concentration unfortunately would be stuck on keeping Ampharos from shocking the entire lake and every Pokemon in it, the wild ones and his included. Had he been in his trainer days, this Gyrados would be mince meat by now. He would have thrown a fire or rock type at it just to test his skill. But he didn’t get a chance to relive his glory days. There came the sound of a shrill whistle and before he knew it, Kaya herself was rushing forth with her entire team. Aydin slowly rose to his feet, adjusting his glasses to behold the sight. She looked terribly beautiful and brave all at the same time as she stepped forwards.

Well, time for some on-the-job training.

He held up his hand to restrain Alakazam when the psychic-type finally came around, a minute too late. Dragonair cradled in his arms, he watched as Kaya took the challenge head on, no easy feat when the opponent was a Mount Silver variety Gyrados. She started by having her Lapras make an ice bridge to and fro the wild Pokemon, a smart move in allowing non-water types to get close. Wouldn’t they slip off though? Pikachu made a pedestrian effort to protect the others but he figured there was little danger to them now. If Kaya couldn’t do it, he had his team finally ready to go. Even Rhydon stomped nearer, observing the action, while his lesser buddies watched from further away. They knew when a group battle became a one-on-one.

Clearly Kaya knew her stuff, or was just plain crazy, as she and her Rapidash took to the ice with precarious balance. A fire type, using an ice bridge to battle a water type! It looked ridiculous in all outward appearances. But her Rapidash wasn’t the one to do the fighting. It was her…Gloom! The little flower Pokemon seemed an ant compared to the giant Gyrados, still flailing against the ice. What was that stench? Utilizing an unorthodox combination, Kaya had her Pokemon both paralyze and exhaust the Gyrados with sleep powder. The faint mist and haze swirled about the larger Pokemon, who was unable to escape its embrace. Little by little, the water-type lost its zeal, allowing for Kaya to be in full control of the situation. Very impressive! He didn’t watch what her Pokemon did any more. No, he only watched her, how in control she was, and how authoritative it all looked. Very beautiful indeed.

That is, until she got caught in the onrush of water from Gyrados’ collapse. Aydin nearly shouted her name in terror, watching with anxiety and worry for a moment, until her Lapras emerged holding the stupidly brave girl by her sweater.

Then surprising of all things, she began to comfort and soothe the Gyrados. It was defeated, let it slink off to its cave or cove to nurse its wounds! Hopefully it would learn its lesson about coming on Aydin’s turf but Kaya had other ideas. “Kaya.” He began to say, unsure if he would hear him as she talked to Gyrados. She should get out of there before it turned on her! It wouldn’t do if his attractive new helper got put in a hospital bed on her first day. Yet of all the things she could do…she captured it. With a red flash, the Gyrados disappeared into the ball and didn’t resist. Kaya had caught herself a powerful Pokemon. Very impressive. Very, very impressive. And beautiful.

Kaya came back, congratulating her Pokemon. Alakazam and Rhydon looked unimpressed, though Ampharos and the others all cheered for her feats. Again, there was that stench, which he realized came from her Gloom. His Gloom didn’t do any of that. Thankfully she returned her Gloom to its Pokeball and all was settled. At last Kaya approached, with Dragonair offering a weak sound in gratitude for the rescue. She was already recovering, having taken only a single tail whip. That should answer Kaya concerns itself as Dragonair slinked back into the safe water, along with all the other water-types. They swam and played around Lapras, now officially apart of their crew.

“She will be alright. She’s taken worse but there’s no need for Pokemon Centers just yet. She’ll be stronger from the experience. I’m very proud of her.” Aydin remarked, standing now with one hand in his pocket. His other slapped down on Kaya’s shoulder with encouragement and a smile from his kind lips. “And I’m proud of you too! That was remarkable, Kaya. You handled the threat and not only that, you made a new friend. You’re more than welcome to train your Gyrados here, though just be careful it doesn’t cause a rematch with any of the others.” Aydin said, withdrawing his hand and then sighing with a sad note, looking to his Pokemon. Alakazam, bereft of a good fight, slunk back to his spot to meditate. Rhydon decided to go crush some rocks.

The other Pokemon gave her another rousing cheer. “Magneton!” His Magneton declared, all three eyes showing glee. Golduck popped by her side, trying to get her attention and brag about how he could have handled that fight for her (if they could understand him).

“This is why I need a helper. If I’m working too much, my Pokemon don’t get the attention and exercise they need. Which makes them easy targets for the wilds to pick on. Had I been more attentive, I’m sure my Dragonair could have prevailed.” He lamented with a shake of his head. “Or the others could have reacted in time. But I feel much better knowing they are in suitable hands. Your hands, Kaya.” Aydin said, flashing his smile again, as he reached to take her hands and hold them in his. He looked down at them a moment, his hands under her hands, his thumbs caressing her palms. She had such nice hands…

Then he remembered himself and looked to her face, then to her soaked sweater and all. “Looks like you need another change of clothes! And something warm to drink, no doubt. You should go on in and change. I have some old sweaters you can wear too if it gets too cold. I’ll get another pot of coffee brewing then you can officially start your day.” He chuckled. “Properly. Come along.” He said and still holding one of her hands, led her back into the house for her to change, while he got another warm brew going.

It seemed he had quite a powerful Pokemon trainer as company. He wondered vaguely if that would be a problem in regards to his…mandated research. Not everyone would agree. He didn’t even rightly agree. But he had a job to do and he owed his debts to the Organization. He only had to trust that Kaya wouldn’t be an issue. And if she was…what am I to do?

 

[LilGunner]

Dragonair's little sound of thanks brought a bright smile to Kaya's face. At least no one got hurt. Arguably not even Gyrados was injured. Clearly well enough she watched as Dragonair slunk back off into the water to join in the frolicking with the other water types who included Lapras in their joyful dancing play. She watched contendly as Aydin spoke of his pride for Dragonair. The sudden slap on her shoulder startled her a little, her head whipping around to look up at him. His praise brought a sheepish grin and a light dusting of pink to her cheeks. She'd heard often enough a trainer needed more than six pokemon and her only having six made her a poor excuse for a trainer. Aydin's suddenly sad expression only amplified the pressed doubts in her mind even as his other Pokemon gave another rousing cheer. Golduck's antics brought her smile back with a small laugh. She reached out and patted his sleek head, not sure what he was trying to say but it was cute.

Kaya listened to Aydin's lament of his own failings. His life had changed from an adventerous trainer to...well whatever it was he did that took his time away from training. It happened for most trainers. Settling down after years of adventure. Kaya opened her mouth to assuage his despondent woes but was cut off as he turned his attention to her. The sudden smile lit up his face and did little to prepare her as his hands shot out to grab her own. Kaya blinked up at him as he held her hands, staring at them. The light strokes of his thumbs against her palms sent a little tremor down her back. His hands were warm, strong, not gripping hers as prisoners but holding gently. She hadn't a clue what he was doing. Such a touch was oddly familiar as was his sudden use of her given name. It was strange but not entirely unpleasant. A quiet settled around them as if the world had stilled.

Suddenly he snapped out of whatever thoughts ran through his mind, head up to look at her once more. Kaya gave a small laugh at his comments. "Something hot sounds nice...but I should learn to stop getting this sweater wet," she said as he turned and led her back to the house. Still he held onto one of her hands. What a strange man Aydin was. She glanced back at the Pokemon who bore a myriad of looks from surprise to amusement and a little irritation, though that was from Golduck alone. Kaya followed him back inside and headed to her room to change while he got more coffee brewing. She didn't have a lot, her turtleneck being the bulkiest and warmest article of clothing she possessed. All she had left was a pair of shorts and another camisole, black instead of her soaked white one. She pulled her curtain of violet hair back and into a braid which she wound around the back on her head to keep the long, wet locks off her back.

"Maybe I might have to borrow a sweater," she said as she emerged in the small black camisole and incredibly short shorts bearing the vast majority of her smooth, soft skin. "I didn't spend much time in Silvertown...do they have shops? Clothing and such? I should probably consider a wider range of clothes," she said with a small laugh while plucking at the camisole. "Traveling light means sacrificing a decent wardrobe," she said as she gratefully took a mug of coffee. Already the thin hair rose on her arms from the light chill on being on the shorts and camisole, a shiver running through her body. Boy was she glad summer was on its way and she was most certainly not looking forward to winter despite it being far away still.

 

[BennyQ]

The coffee was soon brewing again, filling the air with the strong scent of it that vitalized the senses. Aydin watched with diligent oversight, until he heard Kaya’s footsteps coming back down the hall. He didn’t turn to look at her until she suggested her want of a sweater again. And when he did set eyes upon her, Aydin was astonished by her beauty and attractiveness. His eyes couldn’t help but sweep down to her naked legs and back up again to her eyes as she spoke of what amenities were available in Silvertown. “I…have a town brochure somewhere.” He stammered at first, overawed by her appearance. He turned quickly to pour two cups of coffee, bringing one over to her and trying a sip of his.

“I know what you mean. You either break your back with a heavy pack and wear down your feet or take frequent stops to wash and stay comfortable.” He gave a soft laugh in remembrance of some of his own experiences with that. “Why don’t you check that drawer there for that brochure? It should have a list of all stores in Silvertown so that way you know what to look for. I’ll fetch you that sweater.” Aydin said, eyes lingering on her a moment before turning and heading up the stairs. She had a stunning body. He wouldn’t mind seeing her more…wet, on occasion. Plucking a crimson zip up hoody, Aydin soon returned downstairs and set it over a chair.

“Should be about your size. I’m taller so this will hang lower on your legs.” Aydin said, before nearly cringing at the mention of Kaya’s legs. Her most glorious legs. “It should start to get warmer during the day, though summer nights can still get pretty cold. If you do plan on staying, you should have a range between heavy sweaters and well…t-shirts and jersey’s.” Aydin suggested, stopping himself from suggesting nothing as the other end of that spectrum. He needed to stop thinking of Kaya in that way! He might come off as a creep or worse. Gulping down his scolding hot coffee quite rapidly, Aydin sighed and rose to his feet.

“Well I got to get to work and so do you, Ms. Murasakino. They’ll be wanting their lunch soon, out there. They’ll start a riot if you aren’t tardy on it.” He took the mugs to set in the kitchen. He figured he would wash those later right, as he didn’t think Kaya would help around the house. She was meant to help with the Pokemon, he could handle all the in house choring. But when would he get time for that? There was a lot of work to do downstairs that he needed to catch up on. “An exciting first day huh? Good luck out there. There is an intercom in the Barn if you need to reach me. Any questions, just ask.” Aydin said with a smile and would wait until she departed the house before he went down into the basement laboratory, behind lock and key, with only his Magneton.

Outside, some of the Pokemon were still waiting around for Kaya. She had fought for them and therefore must be part of the team. The majority, though not all, saw it this way and greeted her when she emerged quite happily. His Raticate and Venonat ran around her legs, their fur tickling her skin. Ledyba attached to the back of her borrowed hoody, clinging there. Others like Jolteon, Graveler, Golduck, and even the larger Arbok were around, hanging on her every word and movement. Play? Wrestle? Food?

 

[LilGunner]

"Thank you," she said with a wide smile as he gestured to the drawer for the brochure. His actions seemed oddly hesitant. Perhaps just tired and a little wound up from that fight with Gyrados. The place he had chosen as his home was certainly a dangerous one. As he left to grab a sweatshirt for her she opened the drawer and picked up the folded pamphlet. Sipping her coffee she leaned against the counter to look over the brochure. It wasn't a big town but there were enough people there to have some life. A couple of small shops, a bar, a grocery. Of course the Pokemon center. Surprisingly there was even a stadium that hosted the "Silver Conference." Funny enough the qualifications to enter were all of the Johto badges. Maybe she should have headed to Johto sooner and given up on an Earth badge.

Hearing returning footsteps Kaya looked up as Aydin came down the stairs with a brilliantly red shirt in his hands. "So long as it's warm," she said with a small laugh, setting her coffee down. As he spoke of the range of clothing she might need she picked up the hoodie and slung it on, zipping it up. He wasn't wrong, it hung low. Hell, it hung lower than her shorts. Standing straight up it looked like she wore nothing but the hoodie. "Guess I'll have some shopping to do later," she said as she picked her coffee back up. Though she stopped as Aydin gulped down the hot drink as if it were a beer at the end of a good, hot work day. She got in only a few more sips before he got to his feet, declaring they had a lot of work to get done. Well he wasn't wrong on that account. The last thing she wanted was to make the Pokemon angry. Despite the deep bonds that could be built Pokemon were still dangerous when angered.

"Alright, I will do my best!" With a small, amused wave she headed out to the barn, leaving Aydin to do...whatever it was he did. She considered asking but it wasn't really her business. After all, he was her employer and not, technically, her friend. Friendly of course with funny little mannerisms but still her boss.

Outside she found herself swarmed with delighted and, likely, hungry Pokemon. Kaya laughed as the fur of Raticate and Venomoth tickled her legs. Ledyba's weight yanked on the hoodie. "It's nice to see all of you too. Are you guys hungry? Let's get some food and then we can play alright?" It wasn't too difficult of a task really. Some of the Pokemon were easier to feed, especially the ones that could be fed in groups. His sassier Pokemon, like Rhydon, were hard to not be a little intimidated by. Even still Kaya kept up her pleasant, friendly airs with him. Alakazam was also a challenge. "Pudding, pudding, pudding," she kept repeating to herself as she dished out food for the psychic Pokemon. Couldn't let on that it was not pudding. Her own Pokemon joined in for feeding, Pikachu pouted a little wanting some candy for dessert. She was a little slow with the whole process, not being familiar with their habits or the exact locations of their food. It wouldn't be long before the process went smoother.

It was well after noon before she was finished and her own stomach was rumbling. With Pikachu on her shoulder she headed inside to make up a small lunch for herself. Strange that Aydin had effectively vanished. She made simple sandwiches for the time being, leaving one out for Aydin as she took hers outside. As she passed the barn she paused and rang him up on the intercom. "No problems but I made lunch and left you some on the counter," she said, her smile able to come through in her voice. With that she headed out to walk the grounds with a small herd at her heels. Pikachu kept arguing with Ledyba, trying to get the bug off Kaya. Only he could ride on her. "Pikachu, be nice," she gently chastised.

Another round of feeding for dinner. It went a little quicker but still it was close to dark by the time she finished up. With the work done for the day Kaya headed back inside. Still no sign of Aydin. Well no problem. She got some dinner started for them, for whenever Aydin might return. With a little left over money from her last small job, escorts on Lapras, perhaps she might go into town tomorrow to grab just a few clothing items. While dinner cooked a bath sounded pretty nice. The hoodie had helped but her legs were icicles. She left Pikachu to hang out with Nidorina and grabbed up a towel before heading up the stairs to the bathroom for a wash and a soak.

 

[BennyQ]

Despite the hiring and presence of Kaya, it was still difficult for Aydin to focus on his secret work.

It could have just been day one anxieties. Could she do it? Was she up to the task of caring for his Pokemon? It was not unreasonable for Aydin to worry and fret. They were his companions, his comrades in arms, his friends and even family. He was handing some of the most precious things in his life over to this woman. He wanted to check on her, to see if she was doing everything correctly right down to the most minute detail. But Aydin employed some restraint, telling himself over and over again that it was okay and that Kaya seemed a diligent helper. He could focus on his task.

The dark cellar was only the size of his conjoined kitchen and dining area. A ladder led up to a hatch which opened into the actual home basement, full of excess and tools that any normal household would appear to have. Down here though it was like stepping into a new world. Mount Silver was wild and uncivilized. And his manor out here was rustic with some comforts of modern life. Down here it was beyond that. An independent power generator was in one corner, tall server stacks set in another, full of high tech machinery and wiring. A sleek desk was positioned facing the entrance, complete with two monitors and a very powerful computer.

Shaking the mouse dispelled the spinning TR logo of his screensaver, opening up his precious files and research, days and weeks of arduous observation, experimentation, and reports of specimens. Larvitars. Pupitars. They were among the rarest breeds of Pokemon found on this mountain side. Their final evolved state, Tyranitar, was even rarer and uncommon. But it was his job, to utilize this technology, to induce such evolutions in the Larvitars he could capture. A cruel practice, capturing them in traps and then bringing them here to be put in a large glass container, where rays and sensors induced it with artificial energies that triggered the evolution. So far, it had an unfortunate result of making the resulting evolved specimens…wilder and violent. More so than was usual around here.

Aydin didn’t like it but it was what he was commissioned to do. The Organization had looked out for him before. They put money in his pocket, which provided him the means to provide better care for his Pokemon. He had the brains for this, the Executive Committee had declared. The Boss himself has high hopes for him. With Kaya present to watch the grounds and his Pokemon, he could work unfettered. He had no live specimen, as the previous one had been induced to high levels of violence that nearly leveled his home. That had been a month ago. Right now, he was using this time to recalculate and recalibrate the energy rays. His fingers flew across the keyboard as he entered and redid all sorts of formulas.

Kaya’s voice crackled over the intercom to inform him of lunch. Aydin hadn’t even kept track of time, the voice even startling him a little. He told himself five more minutes then I’ll go up. He ended up getting caught in his work and his sandwich went uneaten.

He only ceased after many more hours because his fingers felt stiff, his eyes hurt from the illumination, and his butt ached from sitting so long. Yet he had never worked this much without interruption before and he felt he made great progress, completing what would have taken a week in only a day’s worth. He earned a reprieve and so far there had been no reports from Kaya on any trouble. He logged off his computer and shut down the machinery for now, ascending the ladder. No one was in the home yet and a quick glance out the window showed that Kaya was still out and about. No fires, flooding, or fissures opening up in the ground. That was a good sign! He could use a shower though before settling in for dinner and maybe his own time with his Pokemon. He was starting to miss them a little.

That was when the thoughts of Kaya came unbidden to him, as he stood in the hot shower, the water trickling down his lean but strong physique. He couldn’t help but think of her…wet again, her hair soaked and the clothes clinging to her body, accentuating her figure. And what was her figure like under those clothes? But no, he couldn’t think that! She was his employee and he didn’t want the workplace to get awkward. She was good at her job. He needed to keep her happy and not being admired by her eccentric boss. As he got out to dry himself, wrapping the towel about his waist and leaving his abdomen and chest exposed, he pondered what excuse he should give as to his whereabouts this entire time.

It seemed he would need an answer sooner than later, as the washroom door suddenly flew open on him.

Living for so long alone, Aydin wasn’t in the habit of locking doors. Who was going to come in? His Pokemon understood some concept of the need for personal space when showering or sleeping. Aydin looked up, no glasses at all with soaked hair clinging to his face, to see Kaya standing in the doorway. And he just standing there in a towel. It wasn’t as if he should be embarrassed about his body. He just hadn’t expected this and for a moment…had nothing to say as he gawked at her, one hand clutching the towel around his waist. A little too low, revealing just the upper half of his strong pelvis.

“Ms. Murasakino…! I didn’t know personal sponge baths was a part of the job description but…well, you ain’t getting paid extra for it.” He managed to tease and wink.

 

[LilGunner]

Kaya hadn't been thinking outside of simply wanting to shower and soak for a little. It had been a busy day and a relaxing soak sounded amazing. Not just that but her hair smelled a little of lake. The showers at Pokemon centers usually had indicators on the doors to announce occupancy. Somehow she entirely forgot that homes didn't have such devices. A little mentally absent and blithely unaware she pulled the handle and pushed the door open. No knock, no warning. First it was the steam at hit her and broke her out of the single-mindedness of desiring a wash and soak. She blinked and her eyes refocused forward only to meet with a pair of steely, blue-grey eyes.

Her entire body froze up as she stared at Aydin. All but naked, clutching the small towel around his hips. Kaya's eyes swept from his wet hair, clinging to the sharp, handsome planes of his face down to his lean, surprisingly defined body, all the way to his toes. Then all the way back up, several times in fact. The first sweep brought a red tinge to her face, the color deepening after every glance. His teasing comment broke her out of the rigid, nearly fascinated, shock. She met his eyes again, her ears hotter than Rapidash's mane. At some point her heart had completely halted but when it came back its pace tripled, pumping more and more hot blood through her ears face face. All the while her face retained the frozen shock. Hand still on the handled she very suddenly, swung the door back, slamming it shut. "I'm so sorry!" She managed to squeakily shout through the closed door.

Mortified. Kaya hadn't a clue what to do. Go bother with dinner some more, hide in her room, run outside and jump in the lake? Unable to decide she leaned against the wall next to the door, burying her face into her folded towel. Her ears rang with the furiously throbbing blood racing through them. Everything was only made worse as the image seemed burned into her eyes. In the semi-darkness of her face smashed into the towel all she could see was Aydin. Not unpleasant but she couldn't see her boss like that! So inappropriate! Kaya groaned into the towel, willing the image away. Stubborn as her Gloom. This was ridiculous, she needed to get a grip. It was an accident, not like she had ever even thought...and she wasn't a peeping tom either.

When Aydin finished she managed to pull her face from her towel but could hardly look at him. She muttered another apology before skittering into the bathroom. Time. She just needed time to calm down. First a shower. The hot water was soothing but didn't help her still furious blush. Even with her eyes open she could still see the image. Kaya rubbed her face with a growl and vigor. "Stop it, stop it, stop it," she muttered to herself. In all her years of travel she hadn't run across someone like Aydin. Well, perhaps not totally true, she had just never paused to consider anyone. Never staying in one place for long and with no one but her Pokemon for a companion she had never really looked at anyone that way. Certainly never saw a man in a towel. Such an attractive man in a towel. For a recluse he certainly had a nice physique. "Stop it, stop it, stop it," she growled to herself once again. "That's your boss, idiot!"

Kaya ended up taking a far longer shower than intended, spending more time agonizing over the incident and berating herself for thinking of her boss in such a way, that she opted to forgo the soak. She'd stood under the hot water long enough before even realizing she was there to wash. Finally she was squeaky clean and stepped out to dry, taking care to wring out and dry her hair as much as possible. Rather than walk out in a towel she redressed in her clean turtle neck and leggings, intending to wash the hoodie and shorts that evening. She really needed more clothes. As she left the washroom she desperately hoped Aydin might just go back to whatever it was he did while she looked after the Pokemon. The last thing she wanted was to face him, at least for a while. At least until she could get her rampant, lewd thoughts reigned in.

 

[BennyQ]

Maybe the joke was inappropriate and in bad taste. Kaya, flushed redder than any ripe apple, could barely keep her composure it seemed. It made Aydin think there might be something embarrassing about his body. Was he too skinny? Too small? Maybe she didn’t even play for that team. He couldn’t do anything with his hands, not to usher her out or assure her it was okay, for otherwise the towel would slip off his body and expose it all. Now that would be bad. This was already bad. An employee of his had seen him half naked! And it would be his fault, forgetting to lock the doors. He never had to before! He was about to voice an apology when Kaya suddenly backed out and shut the door, apologizing herself.

It was then that the cooler airs of the bathroom began to kiss his body after the hot shower. Moving to the door, he listened a moment before locking it with a click that sounded just a bit too loud for his ears. He immediately sighed and rubbed his face, letting the towel drape off a little more. He looked to the foggy mirror and wondered a moment what this would mean. This little bit of awkwardness might kill her employment and leave him stuck again. Why was she so red? Embarrassed? Or something else?

That was too good to be thought of as true for Aydin though. They had only known each other a short day at most. He finished drying, brushing his teeth, and wrapped a bigger towel around himself, before exiting out the door. He found Kaya nearby, her face in the towel. “You can go in now.” He said and stood aside as she rushed in, apologizing again. No, it wasn’t her fault he had been lax and stuck in habit. No one lived here with him before so he never had a reason to lock doors! Well that would have to change, if she stuck around after that. He hoped she would. He wasn’t that bad to look at? But in comparison to who? Her? She was gorgeous to look at. He went to his room, got dressed in dress pants and a tucked in collared shirt, with a sleeveless sweater-vest atop, undid at the neck. Then he went downstairs to prep dinner and await Kaya’s return. He had to have a talk with her before this got ruined.

Or made better.

Aydin had to mentally chide himself to stop thinking that way about her. She was beautiful and attractive, intelligent too, but there were rules and standards to keep as employer-employee. What man couldn’t fantasize though? He was chopping up vegetables, mostly carrots, garlic, and small bits of other greens, with some potatoes to skin later for a hot stew, when Kaya finally did come. Unfortunately her room was on the other side of the kitchen from the stairs. He had put out a dish of candy for Nidorina and Kaya’s Pikachu to enjoy, while his Magneton floated behind the electric-type…much like a creepy stalker, drawn to the electric currents around Pikachu. Oh great, does he get it from me…? Aydin worried and still had that frown when Kaya arrived.

It had nothing to do with her but it might appear that way. He turned to her and gave her a slight bow, hands at his side. “Ms. Murasakino…I should apologize for that. Habit of living alone for so long I just don’t get in the habit of locking doors around here. Not many people around and I don’t think most Pokemon have a concept of private space anyways.” He said, politely and formally, giving a little chuckle as he straightened up. “I hope this won’t affect our friendship.” He turned back to his chopping, his hand moving the knife a little slowly. He wasn’t a pro cooker but he knew enough to get by.

“I’m hope you’re hungry. I’m making stew today-“ he said, before cutting himself off with a little gasp. The knife came too near to his finger. No blood though, thankfully. But it hurt like a pinch. He simply shook his fingers and started again. “I figure since you made lunch, I could handle the evening meal. Taking care of me was never a part of the deal so I’d like to return the favor.” He said, hoping the small talk might help put Kaya at ease. “How was your day with the Pokemon? No explosions, craters, or knocked over trees as far as I can see. At least not what was already there before you came.”

 

[LilGunner]

Kaya came down the stairs and heard the slow, methodical chopping of vegetables. Every muscle in her face seized into a wince. So much for hiding out a little to calm herself down. Well it was part of being an adult right? Accidents happened. Lewd and crude thoughts were natural, right? She had to convince herself to keep moving and try to move past it all. It was too good of a job to just up and leave from silly embarrassment even though it would be impossible to avoid him for a couple of days. Kaya took a couple slow, quiet, breaths before finishing her decent down the stairs. She had hoped to pass by relatively unnoticed to at least put up her towel and clothes. Aydin, it seemed, had other plans. His movement caught her eye and she stopped in her tracks looking over as he bowed and gave an apology.

His apology cut through her as well as the knife through what he was chopping up. It wasn't his fault she was impolite and just barged in on him. As he stood up she flushed a little and glanced away. "No, I'm the one who should be sorry. This is your home and I should have knocked." Of course they could circle about with apologies and forgiveness. Maybe it really wasn't so bad. Shame about that image still burned into her mind, more or less. Pleasing as it was it was hard to look at him without seeing the image overlaid into reality. She watched him a moment before moving to turn back to put her things up when he spoke again, breaking off with a little gasp. He shook it off though, no damage done. Kaya gave a small, wan smile as he went on as if it hadn't happened. "It was a fine day, everyone seems in good spirits even after Garados's appearance," she said with a brighter grin. Pokemon was a safe topic.

"One second please," she said before quickly moving to her room to set down the things she was holding. Surprising herself she was quick to return. She glanced over seeing Pikachu and Nidorina sharing the candies. At least he wasn't gobbling them down greedily and seemed to be sharing with Nidorina. Kaya let him be and strolled back towards Aydin as he cut up the vegetables. For a minute she watched his almost agonizingly slow process. "You know, you're going to loose a finger one of these days if you keep chopping like that," she said with a small laugh. "Here, hold the carrot like this..." Rather than simply grab another knife and carrot to show she wound her arm under his and repositioned his fingers so only the very tip touched the carrot and the heel held the vegetable steady. "See? Now you use the knuckles as a guide, let the knife slide along them." Her side was nearly pressed up to his as she held his hands to show him. "I spent some time in Celadon, the longest I've really spent anywhere, working at a restaurant to save up a little and continue traveling. The head chef taught me a few things which came in really handy. Nice older lady I was almost sad to leave and continue traveling."

So close he would be able to smell her one permitted luxury. Her freshly washed hair wafted soft scents of honeysuckle and lavender. "Just be careful not to get too exuberant and raise the knife too high or you'll cut your knuckles," she added with another small laugh. "It's a little awkward at first but once you get the hang of it you can chop really quick. You've got bigger hands than me too so you can chop more before having to adjust," she said with another quiet, short laugh.

 

[BennyQ]

“You’ll get used to the surprise visits around here.” Aydin said in regards to Kaya’s response about Gyrados, before giving a nod to her wish to quickly dart out of the kitchen. Was the awkwardness building up again? He wiped his brow with his forearm, not knowing he had been feeling…hot, since Kaya got into the room. It was like his body was trying to say something. Or rather, scream it. Desire. That’s what it was. But Aydin tried to mentally will himself to let it go. He had been here in the wilds so long, without proper dealings with proper women for some time. Well, not since his break up really. He did encounter other trainers here and there, some female. But he never felt for them as he felt for…Kaya.

And when she returned, like a magnet she came right up beside him with a polite chiding on his inability to chop vegetables without chopping himself. He gave only a lopsided smile as he stood and watched her perform the technique, taking his arm in her own grip. Skin against skin. She felt so smooth and unblemished, especially after the shower. He cursed the water enviously that got to trickle down her body. And the smell from her hair was heavenly, to the point he was overloading his sense of smell and losing his sense of hearing, vital given that she was teaching him how to cut vegetables. He needed to get a hold of himself!

He kept his smile fixated on his face. “Thank you for that. I think I’ll be able to not add any unwanted ingredients to our stew now.” He chuckled himself. Idiot. When has self-maiming ever been joke material? He followed her instruction, using his knuckles to frame his chopping. He did have bigger hands then her. It was very noticeable, given how close their hands were. Magneton chirped behind them, as if he could feel the electricity brimming between them. “Celadon huh? Nice city. A lot less gruff than Saffron. It seems you have quite some adventures and stories under your belt.” Yes, you would love to know what was under her…belt. “I miss those days. Too many Pokemon…” Aydin sighed, his words interrupted occasionally by the knife slicing through to hit the wooden board beneath.

They were side by side, practically hip to hip. “Well since you’re keen on helping out, why don’t you get the water boiling? That kettle there…” He nodded, before giving her a little bump with his own hip to encourage her. Just a harmless joke right? But as always, his jokes always had that underlying desire. He would love to bump hips with her, in a much different manner. “When my Typhlosion was just a Quilava still, never had to wait around for boiling. Just a little Ember burn under the pot and it’ll be ready to go in a few seconds. Now they’re too big to bring into the house.” He chuckled, grabbing the potatoes next to peel. He was a lot faster with that.

The food was added to the kettle, along with a pinch of various spices and herbs. Soon a delicious aroma would waft through the kitchen. Aydin washed his hands and went to sit at the table, where Nidorina jumped in his lap, overly excited. He pet her absentmindedly. “Your hair smells nice today, Ms. Murasakino. Brought your own shampoo and conditioner? That’s one of the modern comforts I’ve been missing out here. My own hair has been…” he raked his fingers along his wavy dark blue hair, almost blackish in the night. He didn’t finish his thought. It wasn’t bad. But it could be better. And it should be better, when in the presence of a lady.

An idea flicked into his mind. “You wouldn’t turn down a drink, would you Kaya?” He offered quietly, informally even. He was obviously referring to liquor.

 

[LilGunner]

His thanks and slight joke caused Kaya to pause a moment. She blinked at him before laughing at the morbid joke. “Well I’m all for a bit of meat in the pot but maybe not fingers,” she said through her light laughter. She stayed by his side as she watched him get the hang of cutting in that manner. Behind them she heard Magneton chirp happily, glancing back and grinning at the happy Pokemon. Despite not having much help his Pokemon seemed happy and well taken care of. Most of them, some a little grumpier but each had their own personality. His comment on the major metropolises in Kanto and Johto brought a rueful grin. She had heard a few nefarious rumors about Saffron. Hell there were similar ones about Celadon only making her glad she had moved on and never deigned to return. Though she did often wonder about Mrs. Irazuka and how she fared with her restaurant. “I’d take this ranch over a big city any day. I prefer open spaces,” Kaya admitted with a rueful grin.

She had barely paid attention to how close they were when she taught him how to chop. It was no closer than Mrs. Irazuka had gotten when teaching Kaya. Constantly correcting her hand placement, her worry manifesting into irritation. Though the realization of their proximity was quickly dawning on her as she felt the warmth radiate from his body, the clean and masculine scent of him. Yes she was painfully aware of how close they were but she couldn’t just jerk away suddenly, that would lead to another sharp moment of embarrassment. Thankfully Aydin remedied it with the suggestion she fill the pot up to boil, urging her on with the gentle bump of his hip. Kaya’s ears burned again but she took the hint and moved away. Stupid, stupid girl. It was oddly hard to want to move though, even with that image still splayed in her mind. She enjoyed the warmth of his side, the feel of his hand under hers. Still she knew she had to get out of there.

Kaya gave a laugh as he spoke of his Typhlosion. “And you might end up burning this house down…though I guess the pot would be boiling then,” she said with another little laugh. If he could make morbid jokes about chopping his fingers off why not a joke about the house burning down? Kaya did as asked and filled up the pot for him to toss in the cut up vegetables. Then she simply moved back and let him work. Soon enough the savory smell of stew filled the air. Enough so Pikachu stopped munching on candies to jump up onto her shoulder and sniff towards the pot. “Smells goo huh Pikachu?” Kaya said with a bright grin and scratched the mouse under his chin. “Chyaaa!” He responded in delight. Kaya moved away from the kitchen to join Aydin at the table as he complimented her hair products and lamented about his hair. Just the products he meant she was certain. They did smell nice.

Though before she could respond about hair products he made his offer of a drink. Kaya hesitated a moment. Alcohol was a very rare luxury. While she did enjoy it she didn’t get the chance too very often. “Uhm…sure, I mean, no…wait…” She frowned at herself before laughing at her own blundering. “Sorry. Yes, I would like a drink. I’ll admit I don’t drink too much, any extra money I had usually goes to nice shampoo and conditioner,” she added still laughing a little. “You’re welcome to use them if you don’t mind smelling like a girl.” She glanced at his hair that he lamented about. It didn’t seem bad. A handsome shade of dark blue. Her stomach did a little flip as she remembered it plastered to his face, heavy and wet. “I was thinking of going to Silvertown in a day or so anyways to get a couple more shirts and pants, I could get you some if you want. In a less feminine scent too,” she said with an amused wink.

 

[BennyQ]

It was quite fortunate Kaya did not find his joke to be morbid and even knocked off her own sardonic remark, which had Aydin give her a smile. Quick wit, pretty features, was there anything Kaya couldn’t do? He did however shake his head at her preference of open spaces over the cities. “Until you want certain amenities. It gets lonely out here. And though we get some excitement, it isn’t the right kind of excitement, you know?” Aydin said as Kaya prepared the pot for the stew. Who wanted to fight every day of their life? Aydin had lived that life when adventuring. Now he found a good niche where he could relax and live an orderly, routinely life. It felt better that way. Some centralization, some foundation, it was good for him.

And the work…it paid well, even if he didn’t exactly agree. But it would ultimately be people like Kaya who get the end result, the Pokemon purchased through our store-front vendors. And I can trust them to take proper care of them.

“Wisdom dictates I should keep Typhlosion in his Pokeball for that reason. I just can’t bring myself to do it though.” Aydin said with a half hearted shrug. Well if the house burned down, it did. It seemed an eventuality though out here. If not by his own Typhlosion then by something else. Maybe King Poliwrath would flood the lakeside or wild Onyxs would tunnel beneath, collapsing the foundation. Aydin would simply have to pack up and move somewhere else, a mile in some direction, and start all over. The work had to continue.

The kettle steamed and the ingredients boiled and mingled together. He watched Kaya interact with her Pokemon a moment before she agreed to his offer of a drink. He flicked his eyebrows at her hesitation, not quite moving as she didn’t seem sure. Was it because she didn’t drink or because she didn’t expect it? A harmless vice, he figured, especially if done in moderation. “Prioritizing the important things huh? I don’t blame you.” He chuckled to her remark. He fetched two glass cups first and pulled a bottle from another cupboard. It was unmarked, but the amber liquor shone in the light indicating what it was. Good stuff. He poured two cups and set one before her at the table. They had time before the food was ready. He listened to her suggestion as he took a sip, the explosive taste burning down his throat but giving him a warm, fuzzy sensation all the same.

“I might take you up on that. Who’s going to judge?” He grinned to her offer of using her shampoo and such. She was certainly an expert in that, he wouldn’t complain. But Aydin would give her a very pointed look when she expressed her desire to go to Silvertown. “Tired of me already? Wanting to get away so soon?” He questioned her, raising his cup to sip again but when he lowered it, the smile he was holding back was finally revealed. He was only joking. “Go at the end of the week if you like. I got plenty of garments myself but thanks for the offer. You’re welcome to a few choice sweaters and jackets too if you like. Save some money.” Aydin offered in return, before glancing to the window.

“How fast do you think your Rapidash could take you? I never really ridden a Pokemon before.” He scratched the side of his chin as he gazed up a moment in thought. He had a few who could carry him. Why hadn’t he never done it? “I hear with Rapidash the flames won’t harm a rider they trust. I couldn’t do the same with Typhlosion. He gets enraged once and flames spring up all from his back. I wouldn’t want to get caught in that.” He chuckled, recalling a few burns he had gotten accidentally.

He knocked back the rest of his drink and got up to check the kettle, leaving her with the implication of catching up or not. He prepped bowls and utensils and transferred the stew to another, cooler pot which could sit on the table. There was plenty to go around. “I’ll help you with dinner for the Pokemon after. My work went fine so I got a little free time. You’ll still get your pay.” He said as he poured her a dish. "How was the drink? They have a lounge or two in Silvertown as well, if you like a little variety. I didn't really get into it until I started living here. Everyone needs a little helper now and then. Especially with my lot out there." He said, referring to his Pokemon.

 

[LilGunner]

Boy when he mentioned a drink he mentioned a drink. Kaya watched, with mild apprehension, as he pulled out the clear bottle of unmarked, amber liquid. Her idea of a drink was usually lighter and fruitier in taste. There was no turning back of course. She accepted the glass he gave her, mentally preparing herself for whatever it might taste like. As he quipped about judgements of shampoo she took a small sip of the amber drink. It burned her mouth as much as a hot bao and it burned going down her throat. Kaya’s eyes watered a little from the hot sting of it and she fought the urge to cough. Though something she couldn’t fight was the cringing wince as she felt the liquid all the way to her stomach. Even the aftertaste seemed to burn on her tongue as a warmth spread in her guts. It was like liquid rapidash fire. Though once the burn subsided it had a fairly pleasant smoky kind of caramel taste.

“No,” she wheezed before clearing her throat. “I mean…no, I’m not tired of you,” she managed to say with a tiny laugh even as he smiled and gave her leave to go at the end of the week. He offered up his own jackets and sweaters for her to use. It made sense, of course, save the money but she would need her own eventually and, who knew, there might be some decent sales given that summer was on its way. She tried another sip of the drink. It still burned but not nearly as bad as the first sip, the pleasant warmth quicker to spread from her stomach. She grinned a little, amused at the thought of riding a typhlosion even if it could be trusted not to burn the rider. “Rapidash can gallop up to 150 miles an hour…but I’ve never gone that fast on her. I mean we’ve gone fast before, real fast, but I don’t even know what speed we were going. If we galloped I think we could probably make it to town in…maybe an hour? Of course I wouldn’t make her gallop that long either.”

Aydin was quick to finish off the drink. Kaya was amazed he didn’t seem affected by it in the least. She went for another drink, only about half done with it as he put the stew into a cooler pot and dished out the bowls. Her eyebrows raised in surprise at his offer to help feed the Pokemon that evening. While she welcomed the help she felt it was a little odd given it was her job. “The drink is…good,” she managed to say with an almost cringing grin. “I think, it’s not something I’ve had before and its…wow…really strong,” she added with a laugh as he set out the bowls. “But, yeah, it’s good once you’re used to it.” The stew, however, was fantastic. Simple but very good. Sure fancy, exotic meals were good but there was something so comforting about a good, simple stew. It actually felt kind of nice, sitting there with Aydin, eating their dinner after a good day of work. After years of camping or curled up wherever in a Pokemon Center it felt nice to have somewhere permanent to be and with such pleasant company.

Kaya managed to finish the drink and the full bowl of stew, plus a second bowl. She shared some bits of vegetable with Pikachu. Candy was his favorite but he had a healthy appetite and would eat just about anything. She stood up to help clear dishes, her knees just a little unsteady. “You know I haven’t asked…what work do you do Ayd…er…Mr. Durov? Do you have hopes to be a researcher like Professor Oak and Professor Elm?” She had told herself not to be curious but she could hardly help it and, for some reason, she felt a little bolder. Bold enough to ask and nearly slip with proper formality. He was still her boss after all.

 

[BennyQ]

“I wouldn’t recommend going full gallop in the woods. You might hit a low lying branch or something. Best take it slow. The town isn’t going anywhere.” Aydin answered her, curious and intrigued by this information. He didn’t know that about Rapidash’s. Perhaps he should acquire one himself, though given Kaya’s disposition towards the horse-pokemon, he figured it had been gifted to her and not caught wildly anywhere.

He could have laughed at the surprised quirk of her eyebrows when he offered to help. He needed a helper, not a replacement for himself. They were still his Pokemon and he was entitled to spend time with them too, was he not? She was still getting paid for it regardless. He did smile apologetically when she complimented the drink, though he could gleam the truth of it from her lopsided smile and words. It was adorable in a way. “Whisky. A bit strong but it’s good for the palette and throat. Keeps some of the cold away too.” He told her. He didn’t think the food was anything special. A meal made with what amenities were available. Wild carrots could be found in the nearby countryside. There was plenty of wild herb and root. Whatever else could be got from the Silvertown markets. But a steak would be nice one day.

They ate heartedly and Aydin was joyed to see Kaya put away two whole bowls of it. It was difficult not to watch her throughout. Women eating was always an extraordinary affair. They didn’t like it, or rather no one liked being watched when eating, yet it was an attractive sight that was hard to avoid. Aydin tried his best to be polite though, pretending to look past her sometimes or elsewhere. “Thank you.” He said when she took care of the dishes. Their partnership seemed so natural already, doing tasks and chores without even being needed to be told or asked. It wasn’t even a part of her paid duties to do any of this. She was a traditional good girl in that way. And you, Aydin, are a sneak and a liar.

And he went chill to the bone when Kaya asked about his work. Stupid. He was, for even mentioning it, when he should have been concealing it out of all things. His thoughts went down the path that would lead to the basement and the hidden trap door into the cellar, where high tech servers and machinery and a dual monitor computer sat with tons of incriminating evidence. His smile failed him a moment and he looked down at his empty liquor cup, passing it hand to hand. He needed to formulate a good lie for this. Nidorina watched him, sensing his discomfort. He needed to remember that his Pokemon were much attuned to him. Negative emotions could carry over. And if discussion of his work made him seem uneasy, it might raise suspicions as to what it was.

She made her own guess so he went with it. “You’re correct. Even half a researcher would be good for me.” Aydin said, half lying, half telling the truth. He was doing research. But not for the same noble causes like the Professors. “There’s plenty of wild, rare, and uncommon Pokemon on this mountain. I want to record and observe them. Compile my research together and then publish it. I might have retired from adventuring but I could never retire from Pokemon completely.” He said, rubbing Nidorina’s head who chirped happily at the touch. “Something to do in my old age, you know?” He jested, for he was still a young man, in his prime, and had no signs of aging or any of that. But compared to the energetic and intelligent Kaya? He felt old. And yet he felt younger too.

He did not think anything wrong with the question, which might mean he was willing to answer more personal questions. He liked that Kaya was curious about him. Maybe she shared similar attractions as he did for her. “I’d rather not show it though. It’s all very secretive. The unfinished work is not pretty or neat. If I ever do complete it, hopefully it’ll be tidy to look at.” He said, rising to his feet. He walked over and poured himself another drink, turning to her and shaking the bottle a little to ask her silently if she wanted another to. “Let’s go out and see how you work. The evening meal can be quite rowdy.” Aydin instructed next and went to put on a coat before heading on outside, drink in hand.

His Pokemon were still scattered about. The water Pokemon lounged or swam. Those of the field ran or exercised. Predators like Arbok or Sneasel lurked in the grass, watchful. Jolteon and Raticate chased one another. Spearow watched from a tree, while Hoothoot and Golbat slept on another branch. It would be breakfast for them. Rhydon was busy with his rock collection, large boulders taller than any human, which he moved and shaped with his horn, before simply discarding and breaking them into little pebbles. It was childish in a way, like playing, yet done with a fierce determination. Alakazam mediated in the shadow of a tree as always. Ampharos came waddling over with excessive joy as usual, hugging Aydin who hugged her back with a laugh.

“There’s a bell in the barn. Ring it. A few might need sheparding but they should come. Once they are eating, I’ll take you to feed my Typhlosion. If he wants to eat.” Aydin shrugged, sipping his drink. “How are you feeling?” He asked her with a smirk, swirling his cup idly in his hand. "Does it warm your tummy?" He asked, his eyes lingering there a moment. "Short term effect but useful for bouts of coming in and out of this cold."

 

[LilGunner]

Kaya paused with the dishes as his sweet smile fell with her question. A little pang smacked her guts. Had she been too forward? She knew it wasn't her business why Aydin needed her assistance with his Pokemon. A chill washed over her despite the warmth of the house, drink, and stew. She should have just kept her damn mouth shut. Kaya was on the verge of telling him to forget she asked before he finally spoke up. Relief washed over her and she managed a small grin. Maybe he was shy about his research, trying to live up to such renowned greats like Professors Oak and Elm. The jest at himself brought a small laugh to her as she continued on with the dishes. "Old...if you're old I'm a Togapei," she said through her light laughter. Kaya believed him, she had no reason not to.

Kaya watched out of the corner of her eye as he rose up and went for the bottle again, speaking offhandedly about his incomplete and messy research. By then she was laying out the dishes to dry. His silent offer made her stop again. She raised a hand and shook her head. "Maybe later, if they're as rowdy as you say they are I'd rather have a clear head. I'm not used to drinking," she said with another light laugh as she moved to follow him out to the barn. "Once you finish your research I'd be happy to be the first to read it," she added with a bright grin. While she knew basic facts about Pokemon she was a little awed he would delve so deep. She had been certain Aydin was a smart man but this was far more than she expected. Once he was done she was sure it would be as good, if not better, than the likes of Oak and Elm.

Once outside it was easy to see most of the Pokemon even as the sun was starting its decent over the mountains. Kaya shivered a little, it was already getting a little chill even with her sweater on. Her Pokemon lingered around as well, Lapras splashing about with the other water dwellers having made fast friends. Butterfree and Fearow perched together, quietly watching. Rapidash alone and aloof out in the field. Seeing her other Pokemon not making friends worried her a little. She had expected it from Rapidash but not Fearow and Butterfree. His mention of the bell made her head tilt and look to where he gestured. She blinked at the bell and couldn't help a small groan. "Would have been nice to know about earlier," she mumbled quietly. Kaya walked over to ring the bell but hesitated with his comments. She looked over, watching his look, and flushed a little. "Well....uh...I mean yes. But it's still kind of chilly out here," she said with a sheepish laugh. "Maybe I should have accepted more to keep this cold away."

She rang the bell and, as he said, the Pokemon seemed to understand it meant time for food. Her own Pokemon noted the behavior and followed the others. "Wow...well trained," she said with a small laugh before getting to work. With the newfound knowledge of the bell things went a little quicker except for the more stubborn ones. For the ones trapped in water she brought food out for them. "Here I was rounding them all up this morning, this is much easier," she said at the Pokemon happily ate their meals. Still, there was a lot of them and it would take a while, well into sunset. While the Pokemone munched happily away Kaya took a minute to stop and watch the play of color on the horizon. "Oh wow...how beautiful..." she said quietly as she watched the brilliant oranges, pinks, and reds dominate the austere presence of the mountains. "I always thought the sunset into the ocean was beautiful but...well this is really close...." A sharp wind kicked up, pulling and flying her purple hair around. Kaya shivered and rubbed her arms. Rapidash's head lifted and tilted at Kaya. She noticed the discomforting chill and plodded over to lend her warmth for a little

 

[BennyQ]

“There’ll be time.” Aydin promised with a grin, when Kaya regretted in not having more. There really was no limitations to it. No one made the rules out here, except them. The bell rang loud and clear, drawing many of the Pokemon to the barn in expectation of feed. The evening meal was usually the largest and most varied for them. They all bunched around Aydin though, as was usual, but he directed them to Kaya who was now their primary caretaker. She diligently got their meals put out and Aydin helped when she went to deliver meals to those water Pokemon who could not move easily upon land.

He paused too when Kaya expressed her astonishment with the beauty of the sunsets out here. Aydin had grown used to them but he couldn’t help but adore the way Kaya observed it all. She stared at the setting sun but he stared at the outline of her face, taking in the curves and angles of her features. “Very beautiful indeed.” Aydin said quietly, moving towards her. He had some impulse to wrap his arm about her shoulders. Or her waist. Instead, her Rapidash reached her first, sensing her cold, and that was an unspoken link between trainer and Pokemon that could be admired too. But that reminded him! It was time to meet his own best buddy and starter Pokemon.

Aydin allowed Kaya to observe the sunset a little longer while he prepared Typlosion’s plate. Spicy kebble, some greens, and slices of raw meat. He didn’t bother cooking them anymore. The fire-Pokemon usually did it himself. “Come on, it’s time to meet Typlosion. Bring Alakazam’s…pudding.” Aydin tried to add quietly but turning to look, he saw that Alakazam was watching…and had indeed heard. He knew it wasn’t pudding but only yogurt and refused the meal, though he did snatch up the new spoon, discarding an old one. Alakazam then went to sit under his tree again, mediating furiously on his new utensil. They would have to try again in an hour or two with him.

Aydin walked Kaya over to the barrow that Typlosion made his den. Behind them followed a small group of admiring Pokemon as usual. Magneton and Nidorina, Ampharos, and any of Kaya’s Pokemon as well. But they stopped when the tall green grass around their ankle…became blackened crisps of blade and twig. Even the trees nearest to the barrow entrance were barren and the bark scorched. Heat radiated from the cave, almost to the point of negating the cold of the mountain. But the deadly beast within did not appear so. In fact they would find Typlosion lying flat on his stomach, arms limp at his side, with the flames on his back and tail dead. Around him was charred ashes and rocks. His golden-orange eyes watched the two humans as they entered. But his expression was…bored.

“Hello, Ty.” Aydin greeted, handing the platter of food to Kaya while Aydin walked over to Typlosion and patted his powerful shoulder. Still, Typlosion gave no response. He didn’t even seemed interested in the food. “You’re more than welcome to come out, you know. You missed a good scrap with a Gyrados and we have some new friends joining us.” He pointed to Kaya, indicating she should bring the food over. “This is Kaya Murasakino. She will be taking care of you-“

That was when Typlosion sprang into action. The moment Kaya neared with the platter, Typlosion huffed and flames shot from its body. Loud, bright, and very hot. The entire barrow lit up. Aydin didn’t react, merely shutting his eyes as he stood rigid in place and hoping he didn’t get burned. But Typlosion was only being an asshole, trying to jump-scare the newcomer. The flames lasted only five seconds before they were extinguished. Typlosion remained flat on his belly throughout.

“Now that wasn’t very nice.” Aydin said to the Pokemon. “You apologize right this instant.” He demanded but Typlosion merely dragged his long neck and face to look away from the entrance, towards the blackness of the cave. Stubborn too. Aydin crossed his arms and shook his head. “You are still a child. A little Cyndaquil at heart. That’s you.” Aydin chided, poking Typlosion in his side. The Pokemon didn’t react.

“Come on, Kaya.” Aydin said, shaking his head again. “Take the food. If he’s hungry, he can come to us. Then we’ll see!” He warned, giving Typlosion a glare. The Pokemon was unconcerned with them completely. But if Rapidash even brought her presence near the cave, then Typlosion would take interest. Yes, there was a worthy adversary worth his time and effort…