enter the lair;; How electrifying can you be?
Do you have what it takes to face the electrifying trainer? Or will the wrath overwhelm your presence before you have the chance? A closed Volkner blog affiliated with Undella Bay!
Flint’s gaze remained fixated on the homemade necklace, one ear listening to Volkner’s explanation. Now that he gave it another look, it did resembled the Z-crystals that he saw in a book he read once about Alolan culture. He remembered raving about it to Volkner, saying how cool it was to be able to upgrade moves through the strength of bonds. To think that he had that in mind when he made this.
He swore that the sniffling stemmed from his cold and not from the sudden rush of emotions.
Although Flint didn’t say anything about the present right away, Volkner could tell that Flint was delighted about his gift he received. Zephyr was kind of giving it away, too. He patted Zephyr on the head, the Raichu’s tail flickering back and forth while it stayed content in his lap. He watched his tea steam and waited for it to cool down. The wait felt like ages.
❛ Okay. We’ll have to make sure your parents are okay with it, too. They probably want to spend time with you much as I do, ❜ he knew Flint was old enough to do his own thing, but it was Christmas time, and family always came first. Volkner would have to squish some time in to be with his mother, too. Maybe they could have a gathering of both the families, but would it be too late to plan such an event? And he kinda wanted to be alone with Flint, but that sounded better than nothing.
Pushing the thought aside for now, Volkner focused his attention on whatever Flint was doing next. He was happy to hear Flint give him his thanks, his cheeks having the same tint of pink when he was in the kitchen. Not wanting Flint to see, he looked down at his Raichu and stroked his fur. He let Flint talk, but before he knew it he was already done, and something landed in Volkner’s hands.
Blinking a few times to come back to reality, he looked the neatly wrapped present over. If he had to say who wrapped better presents, he would say Flint. ❛ I’m sure it’s just as fine, Flint. ❜ He spoke plainly and softly, and carefully opened the present. He really didn’t want to destroy the pretty wrapping. The yellow ribbon fell on Zephyr’s head, causing the Raichu’s ears to twitch and for him to take it curiously.
Once he took the time to open it, his blue eyes lit up to see the scrapbook. He delicately picked it up with his hand and flipped the page open. Blue hues examined each picture closely, he felt he was going back in time.
Flint sure knew how to cheer him up when he felt lonely. ❛ How long have you had these pictures…? ❜ he noticed a few of the scenes were from a long time ago. Maybe Flint’s mom helped him out with this? Either way, he could tell Flint thought carefully which pictures he wanted Volkner to have.
When he got to the end of the scrapbook, inside were two tickets. That’s when Volkner felt his heart skip a beat. He lifted them up and noticed they were both for the Alola region. He would love to go there one day. Wait, were these real? They were definitely real.
❛ Flint, are these really for me…? Who am I supposed to give the other ticket to? ❜ he could give it to his mom and go with her. Flint didn’t seem like he had time to do such a thing, does he? He was being a bit hopeful that he did, he really wanted to go with him.
▲ - nervous hands fiddled with the flashlight as Thorton curtly nodded at Volkner’s reply. he fully expected the gym leader to, sigh and give a flippant solution to such a childish problem- a battle frontier, having trouble with a pokemon? it made no logical sense, and why Volkner suggested such a dark and dangerous place to journey to was also beyond him.
“Yes. Your Rotom can pose as the proper, well-trained and mannered example of how a captured Rotom should act.” Mild emphasize on ‘should’ was sharply directed to the quiet lamp. The method was simple. However, Volkner’s warning tone made him feel unsure.
► “Experience?” Thorton, hesitant at first, quickly followed in Volkner’s footsteps and asked, his eyes cross with confusion.
Thorton placed his hand underneath his chin in contemplation then waved the same hand around as if scrolling through an imaginary list.
► “But we have plenty of battling experience. All my pokemon have regimes each catered to its physical success and biological needs. Meeting other wild ghost pokemon to fight against seems counterproductive…”
A rigid hand shot forward, palm up in question.
► “Even if we do get separated, which I hope it never comes to that, 007 is such a..a free-roaming, independent agent that I fail to see what the distance will accomplish. Shouldn’t we keep an eye on him?”
Now, he was annoyed 007 blew up his device. If the group were to get separated, Thorton could have dowsed everyone’s location. Most of all, he felt vulnerable and susceptible to the unknown and he did not like feeling this way.
The lamp remained quiet. Then sputtered to life as the Rotom, noticing nobody was paying it mind, zipped out and quickly followed the trio. For a second it seemed peeved at being left behind, but it quickly shook off its annoyance. It danecd around Leviathan, snickering and trying to entice the other to play along with whatever mischief it had cooking up.
After hearing the compliment, Leviathan flickered on and off like a light bulb, expressing its emotions instead of using words. The light helped guide the way. Volkner just gave Thorton a nod in response and let out a slight ‘hm’.
❛ You seem to misunderstand, Thorton. I’m giving you an assignment on this adventure. You’re to bond closer with your Rotom. If there’s anything I don’t see, I want you to inform me. Oh, and another thing… ❜ he came to a stop and pointed at where Thorton kept his pokeballs. Leviathan stared at 007 as it tried to tug and nudge it to play. The most interaction it made was giving the wave of its arms ecstatically, but otherwise it stayed on Volkner’s head. It didn’t plan to move until they got to their given location.
❛ Your other pokemon. Don’t use them. Let me take care of them until we’re out of the mansion. ❜ He said, his hand offered out so Thorton can place them there. He waited patiently to see if Thorton would actually let Volkner keep hold of his precious pokemon.
Leviathan glanced over at Thorton to see what he would do instead, uninterested in 007’s playfulness at the moment. It knew that it was supposed to show as a positive role-model, and Leviathan planned on doing just that. It did, however, scoot over a little more to give 007 some room to sit on Volkner’s head. The gym leader didn’t seem to mind their strange choice of comfort.
Of course with the earlier display, Volkner probably didn’t want him to do anything straining. A part of him wanted to push but at the same time, he didn’t want to make his friend worry more than necessary. Hiding his slight disappointment, he instead flashed a grin, placing a hand over his chest. “Alright then, I know when I’m not wanted.” A finger wiped away an invisible tear. “Come on Zephyr, you’re the only one I need.” Perhaps laying things on a little thick but still the best thing he could come up with right now.
Volkner let out a small ‘hey,’ as he knew Flint was just playing around. Zephyr got a kick out of it, too. The little Raichu always did like Flint’s small teasing.
He thought about what to do next while he waited at the kettle. The present was one thing, but what was he to do after that? It was all flustering to him. His cheeks kept turning pink, and he realized it the moment he put a hand to his mouth. How has he not known his love for Flint after all these years? Is this what one would call dense? No, he probably realized it ages ago, it just never occurred to him until now.
He grumbled slightly to himself while he sorted his thoughts.
And of course, his scrambled thoughts weren’t working properly. He went on over to Flint with the present before he knew it. The kettle wasn’t even done with the hot water yet. He patted Zephyr on the head and then moved his distance. He was ready to check the kettle in the kitchen when it would go off, but he also wanted to see Flint open his present. Five minutes was enough time for him to open the small thing, right?
❛ Y-yeah. I got the recipe… Zephyr helped, ❜ he was relieved to hear that Flint will eat them. Maybe they could eat them together… with their tea. Zephyr grinned and wagged his tail, excitingly waiting for Flint to open the rest of his presents. Letting out a small ❛ Rai, ❜ the Raichu happily wiggled its arms in the air when it saw the next surprise. Zephyr was rather relaxed and cheerful at the same time, knowing very well that Volkner took his time working on the necklace.
❛ I-I did, ❜ a small voice, but he caught on that he was nervous and regained composure, ❛ …I figured it would be useful for you. You wanted to learn about Z moves and the like, right? ❜ he rubbed his cheek. There was a slight smile on his face—one that had a hint of shyness. But before he could hear Flint’s answer, the tea kettle set off. His expression changed to surprise, and his arms flapped around slightly, like his Raichu.
❛ I’ll go get it. ❜ He darted to the kitchen and turned it off. He stumbled to get out the tea, a bunch of small boxes falling on the counter. Ignoring the mess he just made, he grabbed Flint’s favorite, and grabbed his guest cup. Pouring the water into the cups, he brought the tray on over—sugar cubes, the tea kettle, the cups, honey, and stirring spoons. He was prepared for whenever anyone came over, as his mother would always treat her guests splendidly. It became a habit for Volkner.
❛ Here you go, ❜ he sat the tray down on the small table, and sat down next to Flint. Raichu moved to sit on Volkner’s lap and curled up there. While he was still nervous, he was also comfortable. ❛ You said you’re only here for ten days… we should make a schedule… ❜ he did have one idea in mind, but he wanted to save that idea for last.
Opelucid, as Cheren recalls, is a place caught between two eras – the past and the future. The past being evident in all the dated but beautiful architecture, with its perfectly manicured shrubbery and cobblestone paths to the west.
And the future, to the west side of town, covered in an expanse of chrome and onyx design – with holograms, autonomical roadways, and plethora of solar panels.
It still dazes Cheren every time he visits, and the sheer contrast between both sides of the city attracts visitors, Unovan and foreigner alike.
It is this allure that brings many members of the League together, from Unova and far away regions. They hold the meeting in the conference hall on Opelucid’s west side. The meeting is short and honestly rather boring ( even for Cheren’s standards ). They disperse within the hour.
With his entire day freed up, Cheren starts up to wander the city. But he notices one other person still lingering by the conference hall, demeanor reserved and apprehensive. Which, as Cheren has recalled with his previous impressions of Volkner – doesn’t seem to add up.
Maybe he’s having an off day.
“Hey,” Cheren says, trying to play cool. “If you need someone to show you around the city, I’d be more than happy to oblige!”
Every now and then, Volkner would stop by Unova. There was something about this region that caught his attention. Perhaps it was the city lights that were rather similar to Sunyshore’s, just without the ocean reflecting everything. Opelucid was very eccentric in its own way, but he enjoyed its features.
This time, he came to Unova for a conference, one that was rather longer than usual. It took up his whole morning. He closed the gym whenever they had to have meetings, and he was glad he did. The flight back home would take a long time. Besides, he did want to take this opportunity to actually look around Opelucid.
And as if reading his mind, someone seemed to be addressing him. He tilted his head to see who it was—someone he didn’t usually talk to, Cheren. They were a Unovian local from what he remembered.
❛ …I would like that… ❜ truthfully, his stomach has been bothering him, but that wasn’t the only thing on his mind. He rubbed the back of his head in hopes that the sluggish feeling would disappear.
❛ Since you don’t seem to mind taking your time and showing me around, where’s a place with light food? ❜ maybe eating something will help get his mind on whatever’s been bothering him, and perhaps that would be the cure to his stomachache. Or his plan would backfire on him, but he didn’t want this boy to worry too much, if he was worrying for him in the first place.
The light died down to reveal darkness, and although a normal human being would probably drop the egg and run, Spark peered closer, curious to see what sort of Pokemon was going to be born. He smiled and turned to look at Volkner, who had come to watch, and then looked back at the egg to see the entire scene play out.
As the darkness died down, a Mimikyu was revealed to be the Pokemon born from the egg. Spark practically beamed as he welcomed the creature into existence, “Hey there little guy!” He extended a hand towards Mimikyu in greeting, to which it replied by curiously laying its hand on his.
At Volkner’s prompt, he nodded and looked at Mimikyu once more, “I’m gonna name you Pikaboo, are you okay with that?” Mimikyu looked up at Spark and signaled glee as it accepted its new name, jumping up from its resting spot to move closer to and inspect Volkner.
“Looks like Pikaboo likes you! What’s your name? I’m Spark.”
Volkner’s gaze looked the blotch of darkness over. It was unusual, to say the least, that such a phenomenon even happened. But he noticed Spark’s calm demeanor, and decided to stay the same. Although he’s just met Spark, there was something about him that was different than the ordinary.
And the pokemon revealed itself within the darkness.
If he had to guess, it was an electric type judging by the color, but he wasn’t certain. He didn’t know much about Mimikyu at all. He’s heard tales about them, but that was about it. He always thought of them as a Pikachu, and was once told they like to mimic the said pokemon. Perhaps he should let out his Raichu, to see what happens.
Once the Mimikyu, now nicknamed Pikaboo, moved closer, Volkner crouched down at the small pokemon to have a better look at it. There really was something ‘dark’ and ‘eerie’ about it, but he couldn’t quite place what.
❛ I’m Volkner. I was right, you were the one I was looking for, ❜ he said softly, keeping his voice down a level so he won’t scare the newborn. ❛ Is this a Mimikyu? I never expected one to come out of an egg… ❜ he reached out his hand to see if Pikaboo would hold it or not.
aaron isn’t surprised when he’s informed of a disturbance supposedly linked to bug-types near one of sinnoh’s cities. he’s typically eager to help in anyway he can, anyway─ the elite is rather proud of the fact that he’s depended on as a member of the league. but this particular request has his interest piqued tenfold.
an outbreak of joltik: a pokémon not native to the sinnoh region. he hadn’t been given too much information other than there were hoards sighted along the outskirts of sunnyshore city. far too much for any typical trainer to round up and catch─ which is why aaron’s been called to assist. no bug problem was too big for the bug master! the elite is almost excited. joltik isn’t a pokémon he’s gotten much interaction with, since they weren’t native to sinnoh.
it had him wondering how the little bugs managed to outbreak in the first place.
Lately, Volkner has been hearing complaints from Sunyshore locals about a certain electric type pokemon. He has been too busy with a project to find the time to actually solve the case right away. He thought about sending his Galvantula out on a journey on its own, but he didn’t want to leave something like that to the pokemon. It sounded like too much effort.
The gym leader was working away on his next electric project. It was something to help electric-type pokemon with their static problems. Static was common, especially with furry electric pokemon, like his Raichu. He wanted this to help relieve any static electricity. Unfortunately, his project would have to wait, as it would seem he has company today.
And a rather unexpected visit, at that.
He was going to wave them off, since they were probably just here for some company. But it was an elite four member—Aaron. Someone who rarely visits him. Usually, it’s Flint that sees him commonly. He wasn’t going to be rude and shoo away his unexpected guest, although Aaron’s chirpiness was tempting him to ruin the moment.
❛ I don’t mind… but, let me guess. You’re here to solve the Joltik case. ❜ It seems there was no way around it. He was stuck solving this case anyway, but at least he had some help, and what better help to have other than the bug master expert himself? Truthfully, he didn’t want to participate in this endeavor, but he supposed he had no choice.
He stood up and kept the anti-static item in his hand. Maybe he could make some use of it through the help of this project. If it worked, anyway.
❛ You should tell me what you have planned out already. I’m curious how the bug master does his job right. ❜ He hoped he wasn’t putting pressure on Aaron, but the boy seemed much too excited for this. Maybe he should be teasing him, after all. It would give Volkner slight entertainment, and social interaction. He doesn’t get much besides from Flint or his pokemon, and many people knew that. It’s a wonder how he became a gym leader in the first place.
▲ - Dull eyes stayed glued on the screen as Thorton shuffled down the empty street- the device’s night vision feature performed flawlessly, helping Thorton navigate the city shrouded in darkness. Why Volkner agreed to meet after the sun went down was unquestioned as Thorton hated walking around in public, under the harsh sun anyways. He only hoped the gym leader kept his word- it was hard to admit he had problems with his pokemon, let alone ask someone else for help.
At the sight of the casual figure leaning against a flickering lamp post, Thorton finally looked up from his screen. He approached Volkner, his formal greeting ready when a surprise attack from the other’s rotom, Levi, stopping him in his tracks.
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Leviathan let out a light chirp, or it sounded like a chirp, compared to the usual snickers a Rotom would make. The sound it made echoed through the area. It was grateful for Thorton to say its name like it was natural. Volkner chose unusual names for his pokemon, and Leviathan was no exception. He enjoyed using nicknames, especially during gym battles, since it confused his opponents as to what he would send out next (unless they’ve battled him before).
Volkner examined Thorton’s actions pertaining to the presence he was about to release. If he were to help this man with his mischievous partner, he would have to see how the trainer is around them, too. It was all a matter of psychology, right now. He nodded at Thorton’s words, staying quiet, so he doesn’t interfere with the Rotom that was about to ensue.
The electricity was erratically cute, in Volkner’s eyes, compared to Leviathan’s. Perhaps it was matching the color scheme of the pokeball, but before Volkner could question it further, he noticed 007’s immediate actions. He blinked, but otherwise didn’t react. Now he knew why the color of the electricity was quite different—the shiny’s appearance made it obvious.
He didn’t speak yet, there was no need to. When 007 came closer, Volkner made sure to keep watch of the pokemon. Although he was secretly agitated, he didn’t dare show it, and allowed the Rotom to mess with his (already) messy hair. Perhaps that was just the Rotom’s way of greeting someone.
Leviathan stayed quiet as Volkner, but it did wiggle its body ecstatically when the fireworks show was presented to it. The pokemon didn’t apply any extra electricity, as it didn’t want to create an explosion or encourage the other Rotom much further. When 007 snuck into the lamppost from before, Leviathan curiously levitated up to see what was bound to happen.
And it let out snickers soon as the lamp blew up, immediately going down to sit on Volkner’s head. Some support his own Rotom was being right now.
❛ I see. I’m starting to understand now that I’m able to witness it in person. My Rotom will try its best to help out yours, although it is very… subtle. ❜ He warned, while glancing up at the Leviathan on his head, as if to add onto his statement.
❛ We will be heading into a mansion, where ghost types wander. It will be a good experience for both of you. There might be a chance we will get separated from one another. ❜ He didn’t sound scared at all. In fact, this was exciting for him. He hasn’t been on a pokemon journey since he ventured over to the Unova region. Quite a feat that was.
He looked up at the lamppost to see if the Rotom was listening to him or not.
❛ If you don’t want to be left behind, 007, I suggest you follow us. ❜ He plans to treat the Rotom as a kid—to be honest, it was acting like one. Leviathan snickered at Volkner’s words and stayed on his head even when Volkner began to walk. He was headed toward a forest route, and the grass up ahead could already be seen, while there were fewer lampposts and no longer a sidewalk.
It was quite embarrassing, really. Here was the toughest Fire-type specialist in this side of Sinnoh and then some, bested by a common illness. What sucked even more was that he should have recovered by now. He had ten days to spend with friends and family, something that he wanted to do much earlier, if it wasn’t for said sickness in the first place. At the very least, he managed to recover from the fit, albeit with an aching chest as a reminder.
Flint, washing his waterbottle for him? The thought made his heart skip a beat, and for a moment, his hand came to a pause. He was about to reply but he focused on his hand movements instead. Flint was really warm, even in this outside weather. Whatever Volkner had pondered over previously started to fade away thanks to the current situation. He still felt a little sluggish, but perhaps that was an overload from earlier, and it would go soon enough.
Ah, was that Flint’s face red from the cold, or something else? Volkner was hoping the latter, but lately, it was hard to read Flint’s mind because of his own emotions getting in the way. He wanted to understand Flint better, but whenever it came to certain situations, they’d both get flustered over something or rather. Honestly, Volkner wasn’t one for understanding ‘love’, let alone feeling it. And he wasn’t positive if that’s what he was feeling in the first place. Actually, he knew; he knew that’s what he was feeling. He just didn’t know where to begin.
And he wasn’t certain if Flint was feeling the same way.
He glanced at Flint, and his face was redder than before. Why did he look away every time his cheeks looked like a cherry? Truthfully, Volkner was unsure, and he wanted a closer look at Flint’s face. But he didn’t pry. He just wanted his friend to get better soon. He made sure to let Flint lean on him however he felt most comfortable. He didn’t want to fluster him further—wait, was he the reason Flint was blushing from left to right much as he was? Volkner’s never noticed, since Flint’s been coming up with excuses every time he does mention it. But now he’ll be keeping a close eye on his friend.
❛ Ah, my mom told me the secret to it. I can make it for you. ❜ He rubbed his cheek sheepishly and glanced away. Was he embarrassed? He was slowly questioning his own movements around Flint, ever since he cooled down back at the gym from behind the ladder.
And when they reached inside of his house, Volkner took off his jacket and hung it on the hanger near the front door. He ushered Flint to do the same if he wanted to. Finally, Volkner took off his cute hat, and his blonde hair showed. He shook his head and patted down his hair, making sure none of it was sticking up in strange directions.
❛ First, I’ll go make that tea. Go sit on the couch with Zephyr. ❜ He motioned to the couch in the living room that was full of christmasy pillows. There was even a Pikachu plush with a cute santa hat. Volkner really has outdone himself this year. Zephyr tugged on Flint and ran on over to the couch, claiming a spot and patting beside him.
Volkner smiled softly and headed to the kitchen, flickering the stove on. He looked down at his hand and stared at the present he hasn’t given to Flint yet. Perhaps now was a good time?
He went back over, and plopped it in Flint’s hands. ❛ H-here. ❜ He wasn’t sure how to express his words. What was there to express? His cheeks were slowly turning red again, and his eyes were vibrant blue as the sky. He glanced away, every now and then looking at Flint, waiting to see how he’ll react.
Cafes were one of Katorea’s favorite places. People were quiet, they minded their own business. Negative emotions were a rarity among the crowds here. More often, she felt inspiration from students working or coffee lovers enjoying the thing that makes them the happiest. Katorea felt at ease.
After he heard her words and his smile faded, he sat down in the chair, and took a sip of his coffee. While he listened to her soft voice, he placed the cup down once she finished. As his mind was still wandering, he almost didn’t hear what she had asked, but thankfully he caught her words.
❛ …It’s been… so-so. Really, it could improve, but there’s still a whole year to go that can make up for it. Your league has been keeping you busy? Unova sounds more populated than Sinnoh… ❜ he trailed off. Sunyshore was a decently big size for him, but many of the civilians weren’t strong enough to beat him quite yet. And he was a hard gym to beat. He was only just going to get stronger, especially since he trains with one of the local E4’s. That wasn’t his reason for feeling down at the moment, though.
❛ I’ve been helping our league a lot, being the last gym leader and all. Sometimes I think I go too hard on trainers, but they’ll be challenging stronger opponents, like Flint… ❜
he looked down at his coffee cup as he spoke, the topic of Flint seemed to have him down. He wasn’t one to talk to Katorea about much, but now that he was older and more mature, he had a lot of catching up to do. And Pokémon talk was the main category he was good at.
Spark gingerly pulled a Pokemon egg out of its incubator, comfortingly rubbing its smooth surface with one hand while caressing it with the other. He sat down and crossed his legs, turning the egg to “look at him” and placing both hands on its sides while sitting it gently in between his legs.
“Hey little guy,” he smiled, “it’s been tough. But you made it! You’re gonna hatch soon, and when you do, I’m going to be so happy!”
A crack could already be seen forming on the top, letting out the smallest traces of light. It would hatch any moment now, and Spark wanted to witness it. The birth of a Pokemon was always a magical experience, and he had never gotten bored of watching it happen, even after years of incubating and hatching eggs.
Soon, the light began to grow brighter, and he tensed as the moment fast-approached. But, he could hear footsteps from behind, a visitor, who was about to step into a magnificent event. He turned and looked at them.
“Yo! If you want to see, hurry! It’s about to hatch!”
There was someone that Volkner has been hearing about recently. They were suddenly famous, so he was told, for hatching eggs. But that wasn’t the only thing they were famous for. Their electrical passion was something he was the most interested in, and he wanted to learn more about them. But finding them was the hard part. He was told this ‘leader’ jumped from left and right, nonstop. And Volkner didn’t have time to go on a wild goose chase.
Now that he was finally able to find the location he needed to be, he entered the building. Was that the man there, mentioning something about an egg? It must be. Volkner’s only witnessed one egg hatch his entire life. It was a cute one, at that. His blue hues blinked curiously, and he went on over to the other to see what was bound to happen.
Could it be an electric type? Maybe a normal type? Whatever it was, it was still exciting to think about. The pattern on the egg was interesting in its own form, too. He was just happy to be the second person to witness the egg about to turn into a living creature.
❛ Well? Are you going to name it? ❜ he asked, while he waited on the new appearance.
Volkner wasn’t the type to drink at difficult times, and instead, he chose to go to a nice café to try and cool his head. The café always had nice music, and good workers, and it was decently quiet for him to think. The chatter didn’t bother him in the least. He wasn’t a people person, but he did enjoy white noise, his favorite being the sound of the ocean. However, the beach wasn’t enough to help him today, as that’d only bring him nostalgic memories.
Coffee cup in hand, he looked around for a place to sit, but the place was unbearably crowded. In the corner of his eye, he saw someone who looked… familiar. That long, wavy hair, those crescent eyes, and that fragile touch of elegance… it has been years since he’s last seen her, but he recognized her all too well.
Carefully making his way on over (while making sure to protect his coffee), he gently placed a hand on the empty chair across from her, a small smile forming on his features, his deadpan face no longer apparent. ❛ Katorea, it’s been a long time, I hope you’re enjoying this new year. Do you mind if I take a seat? I was hoping to stay longer, but there are no other seats available. ❜ He spoke softly and comfortingly to her as possible, not wishing to scare her away. The incident that happened once upon a time was not the happiest memory, and he knew it affected her as well. He had to make it up for her somehow.
Flint kept the wide smile, though he wasn’t so certain if it was as genuine as he wanted it to. If anyone could see through his fake smiles, it’d be the person he grew up with. It was a bit of a relief that Volkner didn’t notice, or if he did, he hadn’t called him out on it. His friend seemed a bit distracted himself, on what that he didn’t know. Flint hated feeling this unsure – it reminded him far too much of the insecurities he buried deep down. He didn’t want to feel this way towards someone so special to him.
Volkner was side-glancing at Flint every now and then, trying to make the glances unnoticeable. His face still felt like it was boiling, even though they were out in the snow, and it was the only thing he could feel besides his chest beating. He did want to scream out all this sudden tension that was building up from stress, but he kept his composure, clearing his throat so he wouldn’t show any signs of unease.
He finally looked at Flint and was about to give a worried expression, but he was given no time to react. At least that helped whatever thoughts was going through his head previously. He’d have to go look for medicine for Flint, there was definitely some on the shelf somewhere for him.
❛ T-ten days— ❜ that’s all? is what he wanted to add, but he was so surprised that he was even allowed to stay for that long. Normally, he’d have him for a shorter time than that. At least, that’s what it felt like to him, and the days were starting to get lonelier for the blonde. He looked down at his feet while he let his mind think over what they could do within those ten days. Flint did have family, so of course, he’d visit them too (much as he wanted him all to himself).
Unable to think of anything right away, he absent-mindedly touched the side of his hair, an obvious gesture that showed his mind was scrambled. There was a lot happening at once, and it was hard for him to take in. His shoulders were tenser than usual, his face full of concern and worry. ❛ Ten days, okay… ❜ it will have to do.
Zephyr stayed a little closer to Flint while Volkner argued with his own mind. His tail dragged behind him, and he watched Flint carefully. Although he was told he was fine, he still wanted reassurance. Maybe once they get to Volkner’s house, everything will be better.
Zephyr’s ears flipped up and his head turned when Flint went into a coughing fit. The Raichu waved his tiny little arms while trying to figure out what to do, only to go over and tap Volkner’s leg a couple times. ❛ Flint, here, I can just wash it clean later. I don’t know why you’re not carrying one, ❜ Volkner took out his water bottle and handed it to Flint. It was a good thing he had his bag and everything on him still—and the present that he gripped on continuously.
Now that he was able to miraculously calm down, he rubbed the back of Flint once more. This time, it was in a swirling, massage-like motion that was much stronger yet softer than before. ❛ Do ya need me to carry you the rest of the way? But we’re almost there. ❜ He was right though, just a few more blocks, and they’d be at his place. Now that he thought about it—he hasn’t carried Flint as an adult before… no memories were going through his mind at the moment, anyway.
❛ I’ll make sure to make you a nice warm cup of tea when we get there. ❜ On the curve of his lips formed a small smile. He wanted to see if there was a way to attempt to cheer up the redhead. Maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to keep him in his bed for a few days, just to help him feel better.
He might have looked like a loser, being cradled in his best friend’s arms like he was a swooning maiden but Flint can’t even begin to muster up the energy to move, let alone care. It was… nice. Really nice. This wasn’t the first time they’ve been in this sort of position but Flint never felt this… desire to not let go. If he could, he wanted this moment to last. Flint risked a little nuzzle and Arceus, Volkner felt… soft, not like his afro but just… soft. Then he swore Volkner pulled him closer, which got a tiny squeak out of him.
He had it bad. Like really, truly I’m so screwed kind of bad.
While Volkner was hiding in the small storage space, he looked down at his hands. He could remember that endearing squeak that came out of Flint’s throat. And did he feel a nuzzle from him, or was it just his imagination? He could feel his face burning up, and his hands remaining cold, whatever warmth that he got from Flint was slipping away. He grabbed onto the cold ladder and held onto it a little longer. Just a little longer…
Zephyr tilted his head and had his ears flopped down, while his tail wagged left and right. He didn’t mind comforting either of the two when they really needed it. Anyone else would just get a light shock from the Raichu. But he was soft around Flint, and especially Volkner. To Zephyr’s eyes, only the two of them mattered in his life, with maybe one other exception. And right now, the two of them really needed him. He needed to get to work, to try and see if there was anyway possible to help their relationship.
But how could a mouse such as himself do that? All he could do for now was help give relief to the best of his ability.
And finally, Volkner was able to regain his senses. He walked back over to Flint. He nervously scratched at his blond hair as he watched Flint hug Zephyr. Was he upset? Was it his fault? He felt guilt hit upon him. It seems the time to himself didn’t help all that much. When Flint turned to finally face him, Volkner searched every part of his soul to see if he could read what was truly wrong with him. At times like this, he should be the guy to know, no matter what it was. But Volkner couldn’t always read Flint. He wasn’t always the best friend he could have.
❛ ...Yeah. Sorry for the wait, we should probably get a move on, huh? ❜ he just had to act casual for now. That’s all he could do in this sort of situation. What was stressing out Flint so much? He wanted to know so badly, he felt his heart was going to burst if he didn’t. But he couldn’t find the opportunity to properly figure him out.
❛ Thanks for helping out with the tree. There is another one at my place too, but it’s all decorated and everything. ❜ He started to lead the way again, not being as close this time. He wasn’t giving him his special massages now.
Little Zephyr seemed to notice the awkward change. He was getting impatient with the two of them being so oblivious. He was eager to do something to help them out, but thinking of anything was hard for the Raichu.
Volkner was able to tell his Raichu was twitchier than usual. Was there something Flint said to him that was odd? He had to get to the bottom of this somehow.
❛ Sooo… ❜ he was trailing off. Why was coming up with a conversation so hard now? Was he a broken record? Were they both broken records? His face wasn’t still red, was it? It’s a good thing he was walking a little further ahead than Flint, albeit not by much.
❛ How long are you staying? You never specifically said… ❜ good, keep it casual, Volk.
✿ ❯❯ Prim was not one to work during busy days. A small group of people was enough to send the brunette in a panic. She knew that her anxiety was an inconvenience, even if her family said otherwise. It bummed her out knowing that they had so much to do, and she…she was just sitting around in her comfort zone.
Today would be different.
She insisted that as long as Leafeon was with her, that she would be fine. Instead of manning the register, like she did on slower days, she tended to the plants and made sure that shelves were stocked. No one seemed to approach her, so she assumed that her family had everything under control. Until a voice pulled her attention from the flowers.
Prim turned to look at who needed help and began to panic a bit. The man was at least a foot taller than her, and his deadpan expression was a bit unsettling. A nudge from Leafeon removed her from her thoughts. She glanced around, looking for her notebook, which was placed between the pots of the plants she was tending to. After quickly flipping it open to a blank page, she scribbled down her words quickly before showing it to the customer.
❬ I can! Are you looking for any with a certain meaning? Or does that not matter as much as appearance and longevity? ❭ Despite her nerves, Prim knew she had to help him the best she could. That help starts with eye contact and a smile.
Volkner glanced down at the Leafeon beside her while he waited on an answer. What was she writing? Maybe a list of flowers for him already? Not wanting to assume much further, he stood their patiently, a small smile to the Leafeon before he looked down at the notebook. Ah, so it was her speaking to him—this was a different experience for him, but that’s alright.
❛ M-meaning? That’s… I wonder what they should mean, I never thought of that, ❜ what would be a good interpretation for the gift he was giving? He put a hand to his chin while he was deep in thought, eyes closed until he finally came down to a decision. ❛ I think I know now. I would like it to be in a bouquet, so there will be multiple meanings. But I want love to stand out the most. I-I don’t want a typical rose in it, those are too common. ❜ He didn’t like to be simple-minded. This was an important gift, after all.
❛ And maybe… friendship? N-no no, forget that one. Balance? Is there something for balance? ❜ it was clear he was nervous about telling a stranger this, but she worked here, and she knew these things better than he did. ❛ With a lot of passion… I’d like the colors to be more on the orange side… ❜ he was slowly starting to express himself more, his deadpan face beginning to be less apparent while he thought on the present.
Flint was glad they didn’t start walking yet. He probably would have tripped over something in his surprise. Wait, he had a present ready? And he could open it early? That was… really sweet of Volkner. Of course, it simply fanned the fire beneath his cheeks but he could still pass it off as the fever. He managed to cover his dopey smile with a cough, then shoot a look at his friend. “Hold up one sec!” Flint quickly snagged his bag, mindful of the contents before rejoining. “Okay, I’m ready! Lead the way!”
Volkner was confused when he said to hold on a sec, but he understood and nodded. What was inside the bag? His curiosity peeked, but he didn’t question it.
While Flint was up above, he held onto the ladder down below. He knew safety measures were important, and he definitely didn’t want his best friend to get hurt just because of this. His eyes drifted onto Flint’s lower body, carefully watching his every movement as he shifted. He was almost in a bit of a daze, he wanted to reach out and touch him, but he also didn’t want to startle his friend off the ladder.
He looked up at Flint’s face instead, and jumped a little when Flint asked the question. His mind wanted to say something cheesy, something along the lines of ‘it looks good as you,’ but he felt it wasn’t right. Not right now. He had to think of something else to say, but – ah—there Flint goes, rambling on again. His eyes were fixated on Flint and only Flint instead of the tree in front of them, and somehow, it felt that time just stopped. He was a blazing flame full of passion, and Volkner felt like the ocean current that was going to put it out. There was no way he was able to steal Flint all to himself.
The other must’ve had a little too much momentum, but it was enough for Volkner to see. He took this chance to cradle him close, afraid that any other movement might hurt the fragile soul. Oh dear. He didn’t want to let go anytime soon. He felt he was starting to get too possessive, would Flint dislike that? It wasn’t always healthy for a relationship—not that they were in one, but he wanted him, and he wanted him to stay in his arms.
He wanted him all to himself.
❛ It’s a good thing you moved to me instead of the tree, ❜ finally, words came out of his mouth. For a small moment, he held Flint closer, tighter; but once he realized what he did, he pulled the warmth away from his cold body. “We should go to that warm fire you were talking about. I decided to install a fireplace at my house this winter,” Volkner was the type to get cold easily, even if he was a walking heater not too long ago. Flint was there to make up for his body temperature, at least. He always did make the room feel ten times warmer whenever he was around.
❛ Then once we’re there, you can open your present. Sound good? ❜ he rubbed his cheek nervously while he spoke, as he wasn’t able to get that image out of his mind. They were close, really close. It’s not like that wasn’t the first time Volkner caught Flint, but this time, it felt different. ❛ I-I h-have to put the ladder away first, though, ❜ a stutter—something that wasn’t like Volkner to do. Sometimes he did, but not so sudden.
He quickly started to work on bending the ladder back to its resting position, his heart racing while he worked. He didn’t give Flint the chance to offer help.
Zephyr looked up at Volkner’s direction worriedly, and tugged at Flint’s pants, to see if there was anything he could do to fix the awkward air flow. By this time, Volkner was able to make it to the other side of the room and put the ladder back in place.
He sighed in relief, and gave his beating heart a break while he had the moment to himself before he headed back to Flint.
