Naida@Baborachi: "Greetingks!" The tall female Empoleon waves to the Machamp proudly with a steel wing, smiling as she approaches the four-armed wrestler. "You look like fine example of your kin; strongk and firm! And yet gentle, makingk with the plantingk of flowers and helpingk others more than exercise! Almost like mother!" she jokes with a hearty, uplifting chuckle. "Is joke! But real question; you are Fightingk Type, yet don't seem like ~fightingk type~, yes? Vhy so meek vith the violence?"
To say that the Machamp was caught off guard by the loud and jolly Empoleon was a bit of an understatement, seeing how he quickly backed away. He couldn’t help feel flustered at her comments, for it’s unusual for a complete stranger to say such things to him.
The shy Pokemon averts his gaze, silently thinking over her words. Normally he would rather keep conversations to a minimum since he’s often unsure on how to deal with strangers, but...he didn’t want to seem rude. Her questions are reasonable and he can’t see why he shouldn’t answer them, but at the same time...his hesitance of meeting others rear its ugly familiar head.
However...the energy that she radiates was something that Baborachi couldn’t help but admire, since it shows how friendly someone is. Because of this he managed to find the courage to turn his head and look her in the eyes, but sadly this only lasted for a few seconds before averting his gaze again.
Even without him looking her, he opens his mouth to speak; finally answer her question.
“W-Well...” He begins awkwardly. “I can understand why you’re confused, since...uh...fighting-types are known to...well...fight...” The Machamp shuffles his feet uncomfortably, one of his hands instinctively gripping the wrists of another. “It’s...rare for a Pokemon like me to dislike fighting, in fact...many would...look down upon me because of it.”
Her compliments ring in his mind once more, causing his lips to form a small smile. Eventually he looks back at her again, even though the tiny smile vanished...his gaze held. “I...dislike fighting because of...” He closes his eyes. “...of how good I am at it.”
No, that wasn’t the whole truth and Baborachi knew it. It’s quite obvious that the Pokemon wasn’t saying everything due to the expression on his face, and it’s also just as obvious that he’s conflicted on revealing any more. The turmoil in his eyes lasted for several long moments before he closes them, with his mind made he takes a quiet breath. “Something...takes over when...I fight, it causes me to hurt others without...control. So I avoid fighting, because I’ve hurt...” He swallows a lump in his throat. “...and k-killed people.”
With a shuddering sigh he opens his eyes and averts his gaze again. “So...I try to not fight, I only do it when I...need to. I don’t like hurting things, instead...I would like to heal them and make them grow.”
The thought of doing something to make things better make his smile return, this one larger than before. “I take care of the garden, making it flourish and...using my harvests to help others.” He lets out a quiet laugh. “I...guess I am kinda like a...mother, although I...never thought about it.” Baborachi’s gaze turns to his arms and the powerful muscles they retain. “I work hard, so...I do still get exercise while lifting heavy things.” Even though he appreciated the Empoleon’s compliments, he didn’t voice them out loud. So instead he looks back at her again, this time looking at her entire form for real.
The admiration in his eyes are quite plain to see, perhaps due to the fact he’s never seen an Empoleon such as Naida. “You...also look quite strong...yourself?" The awkwardness in that compliment could cause crickets to chirp, even Baborachi couldn’t hold the embarrassed flush on his face.
Eventually he looks down, sliding his lower hands into the pockets of his cargo shorts. “So...that’s Baborachi, just want to heal...not fight and hurt others.”
Those who desire for peace...are known to go great lengths in order to achieve it, even going against their own policies.
A peaceful King could be angered that his neighbors are in constant conflict, that they don’t set aside their differences to live in harmony. So he sets aside his beliefs and goes to war, intending to strike down all of his neighbors and bring them under his control. He would create a forceful peace, ruling with an iron fist in order to prevent anymore conflict.
And yet...there is also the opposite, where one’s desire for peace is so strong that they avoid conflict at all cost.
Why is it one desires for peace?
Conflict creates violence, violence creates pain, and pain creates death.
It is understandable why one wants to avoid conflict, for it often brings strife. But what if that is...not the main reason why they desire peace?
Is there something they’re hiding? A power that they don’t wish to reveal, that conflict brings out the worst of them? Is that why they desire peace, in order to preserve the lives of those around them?
...
It is said...that those who desire peace the most...
...are capable of causing the most destruction...
...
[PoV: Baborachi]
[Location: The road outside his hometown]
Fifteen years ago...
The sky crackles with a boom of thunder as the storm moves in, already the droplets have begun their shower upon the earth.
I’m on my knees, despite a Machoke’s body being resilient...my injuries are severe and my knuckles bloody. A deep wound in in my abdomen leaks a crimson stream of blood, the red liquid mixing in with the rainwater in the dirt.
My eyes are clenched shut, despite the injuries...I don’t feel any pain as images flash in my mind.
...
“You can’t let them pick on you, Baborachi!” The Kirlia growls, stomping her foot in anger. “If you don’t fight back, it’ll just get worse and worse!”
I let out a sigh, avoiding her gaze. “Fighting won’t prove anything, it’ll make me no better than them.” I mumble under my breath.
I feel her suddenly take my hand, turning me so that I’m forced to look at her. “Babs...” She says to me, looking at me with concern. “I know you dislike fighting, but they won’t leave you alone otherwise! They’re gonna follow through with their threats of jumping you if you don’t stand up for yourself!”
I don’t respond to this, in which she lets out a sigh of her own. “I know their words are really bothering you, Babs. And it’s really...pissing me off, if you won’t stand for yourself...then I’ll do it.”
My eyes widen as I quickly shake my head. “N-No! You don’t need to get involved! I-I’ll do it, j-just...don’t...” I clench my eyes shut and shake my head. “Annie, your family must be wondering why you’re not back from school. So...you should head home.”
...
I slowly open my eyes, my blurry gaze turning to the bodies scattered around me.
...
“Now look what we got here!” The Braixen laughs haughtily, approaching Annie and I with four other Pokemon in tow. “It’s the pansy orphan and the cucumber bitch!”
I couldn’t help but flinch at what he called me, the words striking deep like a knife. Annie clenches her hands and takes a brave step towards, looking angered. “Fuck off Cooper.” The Kirlia hisses, spitting on the ground before the five Pokemon.
The Braixen narrows his eyes. “Now that’s not how lowlifes should treat their superiors.” A wicked smile forms on his lips. “And you know those threats we’ve been saying? Look around you, this is an empty road...”
I feel my blood freeze upon hearing this, since this road towards Annie’s house is known to be empty at this time of day. And with the thunderclouds coming in, no one is gonna be out and about.
“Hey look, the Orphan has the right idea!” A Pawniard crows, pointing at my shaking body.
Annie growls and takes another step forward, despite the fact that we’re both outnumbered...she’s not intimidated in the least. “Alright you fucks, if you think we’re just gonna let you walk over us...think again.” She glances back at me, flashing a confident smile. “Baborachi and I can take you all on, right Babs?”
Cooper lets out a loud laugh. “You and him? You must be joking! That pansy couldn’t lift a finger to fight back even if he tried!” His eyes narrow further, his wicked grin widening.
I stay silent, Annie’s confident smile weakening when I don’t respond to her.
...
They were bullies, they were terrible...but they didn’t deserve their deaths...
I...didn’t mean for this to happen...
...
“BABORACHI, DO SOMETHING!” Annie cries as the Gurdurr holds her down while the rest of the Pokemon proceed to beat her, despite her strength...she got easily overpowered due to her being outnumbered.
All I did was stand frozen, watching the scene unfold in terror.
“See? The pansy can’t lift a finger!” Cooper cackles, watching the beating with sick satisfaction. “You better know your place from now on after this, or else we’re gonna keep on doing this over and over again!”
Watching my closest friend being beaten...it stirred something in the back of my mind, something that I greatly feared. The more I watched, the more it began to awaken...
The Braixen turns to me, a smirk on his face. “And once we’re done with her, the orphan is next.”
I couldn’t hold it back any longer, I felt my control over my body slipping away as something more primal took the reins.
I couldn’t help but watch helplessly, now a prisoner in my own body. My expression darkens before I let out a massive, bestial roar. My body charges at them, my fists clenched into fists.
...They never expected it...
...
The sky flashes again as lightning arcs through the clouds, illuminating the six bodies.
The Braixen’s body is brutally beaten, his stick broken in two and the bones in his limbs shattered.
The Pawniard, head caved in from the relentless assault.
The Gurdurr, his head cracked open from his own steel beam.
The Tyrogue, his chest smashed and his neck twisted in a way that should never be.
The Luxio, his tail ripped off and his jaw missing.
And the Kirlia...
My friend...
...
With Machokes already being naturally powerful, the combination of my body’s merciless and brutal actions have turned me into a...monster. The bullies are trying to fight for their lives, but already I have killed all but the Gurdurr and the Pawniard.
With fear in his eyes the Gurdurr takes a mad swing with his steel beam, but my body easily catches it. Its powerful arms wrenches the weapon out of the Gurdurr’s grip.
“P-PLEASE! D-” He cries as he takes a step back, but my body doesn’t even let him finish.
It swings the metal beam, a sickening crunch filling the air as his head is split open from the vicious blow. His body collapses, the spark of life extinguished from his eyes.
I hear a loud screech from behind me, which my body swiftly turns to face the source. I feel the most agonizing pain strike my abdomen as the Pawniard slashes with his clawed hand, tearing through the skin and leaving a very deep and large gash.
His eyes are a storm of terror and rage, but that fear grew tenfold when my body didn’t react to the injury. With the beam still in my hand I swing, another crack filling the air as he’s sent tumbling to the ground.
But my body doesn’t stop... I charge after him and proceed to smash his head with blow after blow, his head caving in further with each swing.
“BABORACHI!” I hear the voice of Annie scream at me in horror.
My body ceases beating the Pawniard’s corpse, only for it to turn to the prone form of the Kirlia.
...
I feel tears stream down my face as I look at Annie’s body.
She was my best friend... My only friend... She didn’t deserve this...
No one did...
...
The terror in her eyes is something that’ll burn into my mind till the day I die as my body strangles her, my grip tightening on her neck with each passing second.
She couldn’t fight back in her weakened state, and even if she could...she wouldn’t have been able to defeat me.
I feel her neck snap...and she lived no more.
...
I hear panicked voices around me as a search party arrives, finally finding me and the others.
I couldn’t stop crying, the shame and fear I felt was too much. I feel Annie’s mom pull me into her embrace, her own sobs filling the air for the sorrow she experienced of seeing her daughter’s corpse.
Annie’s parents refused to believe that I was the one that killed them all, they argued that I was a survivor of an attack. I was Annie’s best friend, how could I have killed her when I myself refused to fight?
Many knew that I did it but they didn’t have proof, so they dropped it.
They took care of my injuries the best they could, but the wound left by the Pawniard ended up leaving a very bad scar...to forever remind me of what I’ve done...
I couldn’t stay in my town anymore... What if I lose control again? When I evolve, what will happen when I’m even more powerful?
I couldn’t stay...
So I ran away, to hide from everyone...
I need to learn to control it...or stay away from everyone forever...
When the warriors never returned, Kelviks was forced to take matters into his own claws. The horrid beast will eventually return, and if nothing stopped it...it shall surely bring this land to ruin in its rampage.
Kelviks alone can’t take on the beast, even if he were to lure it to the structure where he could use his link to make him stronger. No...he needed powerful warriors...
One would think that gathering an army would be a simple solution, but the Golisopod thought otherwise. Seeing how easily the beast killed experienced Human and Pokemon warriors, sheer numbers would be too costly.
He needed at least one warrior capable of standing up to this beast, however...how will Kelviks find such a warrior?
Begrudgingly he left the comfort of the structure and ventured out into the land, asking around and keeping an eye out for individuals who showed great promise.
Sadly most warriors he found that others said were strong...did not meet his expectations... Although there was the rare few that did show such promise, when he brought them back to the arena for a proper dual...Kelviks would win by a landslide.
These ‘promising’ warriors always lacked in something; either being too reckless, too slow, too weak, or other various (or even combinations of said) faults that would be their undoing if they were to fight the beast.
And so it eventually came to the point where Kelviks has seen it all, a mere glance and a brief conversation is all he needed to know if a warrior held potential or not. The few he thought had potential? He would be disappointed again and again when they fought him on his own grounds...
Slowly his hopes began to dwindle as time passed, the prospect of finding someone that suited his needs seemed bleak.
...But one day an idea struck Kelviks, something that he should’ve thought earlier.
He was doing it all wrong, to have them immediately fight him. He needed to create some sort of ‘trial’, where these warriors would test their skill to overcome certain conditions in order to prove if they excelled in areas that is required in order to survive and beat this beast.
But how would Kelviks do this? What sort of ‘trials’ would they be?
It wasn’t difficult for him to decid, he needed Champions. Warriors who contained specific skills that forced a challenger to overcome in order to succeed, to prove that they wielded the qualities Kelviks seeks. And if they beat these Champions? THEN they can fight Kelviks, for they have proved that they are worthy enough.
These ‘trials’ sound like an arena fight, which actually describes them quite perfectly. In fact, Kelviks remembers one particular chamber in the structure that resembled a sort of arena. It had a perfectly flat ground, it was circular, very massive in size, contained two openings, and even had several raised stands for one to overlook the area...
Yes...that place will do perfectly to host these fights...
But when he thinks about it, constantly calling the building itself ‘structure’ doesn’t do it much justice. It needs a name, something to give it an identity.
The Coliseum? No no... It needs to give it a sense of uniqueness, to describe its greatest qualities...
The Arena of Ancients?
Heh, that’ll do...quite nicely actually.
And so Kelviks continued his search, but with different individuals in mind. He found many warriors that would be promising Champions, however most declined despite how much he insisted...
...But his search was not in vain, for he found four individuals that not only matched the qualities he desired but agreed to be his Champions.
He found a Salazzle by the name of Evelynn, she’s a very capable fighter who excelled in agility as well as ranged attacks. It would force the challenger to use agility in order to avoid her attacks and overcome her, thus making her a valuable choice as a Champion.
Another individual is a Bisharp known as Messara, a very intelligent and cunning duelist who relied on trickery as well as exploiting weaknesses. To defeat him the challenger is forced to not only be skillful but also just as intelligent, thus why he is another valuable choice for a Champion.
Baborachi is another individual, a kind-hearted Machamp who possessed a very powerful side in combat. His brutality in combat as well as strength is unmatched, in order to defeat him the challenger will have no choice but to match him in strength. Despite his strong dislike for violence he came with Kelviks, his great strength proving to be an invaluable Champion.
And finally is a Greninja named Meikakuna, an individual who possessed the unique style of combat of using the terrain against her foes. By making the ground hazardous with various moves her opponent will need to be incredibly knowledgeable and wary of their surroundings, for being reckless will only get themselves further injured.
In exchange for them being his Champions, Kelviks has given them a place to live inside the Arena of Ancients. Each of them were given a room, using what small treasures he found over the journey he assisted them in buying whatever things they need in order to make themselves at home.
Messara, Evelynn, and Meikakuna accepted their rooms gratefully. Baborachi however preferred to reside within the massive chamber with the gaping hole in the ceiling, where he could nurture the plants there and make it much greater than it is now.
It took a long while to make sure their stay was fully comfortable, buying appliances was one of the biggest challenges. His knowledge on such things were non-existent due to his isolation, so he learned a good deal on modern technology while working out these necessities. Electricity was out of the question due to the nature of the Arena, in the end they had to make do with devices that ran on wood or batteries.
Despite these limitations they managed to make their stay quite comfortable, and with it finished they began spreading word of The Arena of Ancients. Eventually warriors of all shapes and sizes came, eager to test their might against the Champions.
Sadly most didn’t seem to understand the reason for the Arena’s existence, for they desired either to obtain fame or to just test themselves. A good number weren’t even allowed to challenge it, for Kelviks knew that they didn’t have what it took.
Only a few warriors out of the ones that did particiapte managed to beat all four Champions, however they were incapable of defeating Kelviks himself.
This went on for many years, the number of warriors wishing to test themselves decreasing the longer time passed.
And as the warriors became fewer, so did Kelviks’ hopes grow smaller. It seemed that once again the situation was bleak, that he would never find the warrior that could help him defeat the beast.
With nothing else to do, he let word of the Arena die out. No longer did warriors come to challenge it, for most those that came didn’t fit his desires anyways.
Despite the fruitlessness of their attempts he became quite close with the Arena’s Champions, although their own relationships with each other were mixed...they were happy with staying with Kelviks.
With an absence of any new challengers, Meikakuna herself suggested that she would search for anyone of promise during her various supply runs. Overtime she gained an eye for potential just like Kelviks, so she knew who would hold the possibility of overcoming the challenges and defeating Kelviks.
Seeing no other options as well as trusting her judgement, Kelviks agreed.
And thus he waits, hoping that Meikakuna would find a warrior that she would believe would be capable of defeating the Arena of Ancients.
He rarely left the arena anymore, only occasionally to check on the status of the place where the beast will return. No longer did he need to go outside to hunt, for with supplies brought by Meikakuna as well as the food grown by Baborachi supplied everything they needed.
The Machamp brought down needed soil and used bought fertilizer to make the place rich for plants, with some seeds and a caring hand it became what one can only describe as a paradise.
Many fruits and vegetables grow there as well as beautiful trees, bushes, and flowers. Baborachi would use these plants for food and medicine, his medical and culinary skills are something many would be envious of.
Messara would spend his time reading as well as teaching Kelviks and the others with his vast selection of literature and history. However if one were to feel daring, he wouldn’t mind accepting a challenge to a game of chess.
When not teasing others with her flirting (specifically Meikakuna), Evelynn would either go out to towns for social interactions or spend her time singing in her room to music on her media player. During her outings she keeps an eye out for any curious individuals, for if any catch her eye...she would notify Kelviks or Meikakuna.
And so...they wait, to see if Meikakuna would ever find someone that could be the one.
...However...as of now...she may have found that said individual...
...All that’s left to do is for her to see for herself...
The travel back here took me many days, however with the excitement of finally finding someone who held the potential...the walk meant nothing to me.
Upon finding the stone entrance I proceeded down the stairs, the walls lined with small crystals that gave enough light to properly see. Upon reaching the main chamber I look around, only to stop when my gaze falls upon Kelviks. It’s obvious that he was waiting for me, his hulking form looking almost intimidating in the light of the crystals.
“Welcome back, Meikakunaaa...” He hisses with a small bow, slowly making his way towards me with a loud clacking sound with each step he makes. “Your journey, I assume it went...wellll?” The Golisopod looks down at me, his tone sounding hopeful.
So I tell him.
I let my smile be shown, giving him a nod. “Hopeful indeed, Kelviks.” I say. “The Crusader, Tapferkeit... I’ve witnessed him in combat, and from what I’ve seen...he is a force to be reckoned with. I believe he holds the potential to be the warrior you have sought all this time...”
Kelviks lets out a laugh, a low...yet relieved laugh. “Yesss... Yes yes... Meikakuna, I thank you...” He bows his head slightly at me, the chain-like mask covering his face clinking faintly as it waves from the movement. “Tapferkeit...his tales show promise, very much sooo... To have you visually confirm, Kelviks...is pleased...very much sooo...”
I nod my head in return, as I open my mouth to comment further I freeze as I hear a particular voice shout my name.
“MEIKAKUNAAA~ DARLING!”
Before I could turn I feel a pair of arms wrap around me in a tight hug, my body immediately tenses as a scowl replaces the smile on my face. “Evelynn, get off me!” I hiss, pulling said Salazzle’s arms off and pushing her away.
I turn to see her giving me a pout, crossing her arms. “Now that’s not a way to greet someone who’s missed you, dearie.” She huffs. “It appears that despite getting some fresh air, your sour personality hasn’t changed at all.”
I grit my teeth together as I could do nothing but glare, it’s obvious that she’s trying to get under my skin...but it infuriates me to no end.
And Evelynn knows this, seeing how a smirk is tugging at the corners of her lips. She turns her head to look at Kelviks, her icey blue eyes glinting with curiosity. “Now you look like you’re in a good mood, Kelviks dear.” She chuckles. “I assume that Meika has found something good?”
I clench my hands into fists upon hearing the nickname, something that Evelynn also does to anger me. Before I could open my mouth I find myself cut off once again, but by Kelviks this time.
“Indeed, Evelynn... Very much indeeeeed...” He chuckles in return. “Meikakuna...has sought out the Crusader, and she says that he holds potentiaaaal...”
“The air feels much lighter in this chamber, more so than ever before.” Another voice cuts through the air, signifying that no other than Messara has arrived. The Bisharp steps into view with a small smile on his face, trailing behind him is the Machamp known as Baborachi. “The glee on the Golisopod and Salazzle’s faces shows what the answer is, for that the Greninja has found the one that we have been seeking.” His gaze turns to me, his smile turning into a faint smirk. “However the air surrounding Meikakuna burns with anger, showing that she has fallen victim to Evelynn’s teasing...as always.”
“Welcome back, Meikakuna.” Baborachi says softly, looking at me with a soft smile.
At this point I take a deep breath and shake my head, since I’m just letting myself get worked up. With my emotions more under control I give a weak smile back at Baborachi. “Thank you, Baborachi. It’s good to see you again.” I glance at Messara and give him a glare, who replies with a shrug.
“From the glare I’ve received, it’s obvious that Meikakuna does not appreciate my narrations.” He chuckles. “However this is the way things are, for none shall be spared from my words.”
Kelviks’ small claws near his neck tap together multiple times, creating a distinct clicking sound that draws are attention. “Champiooons...” He says loudly, he looks at us to make sure he has our full attention...and then speaks to me.
“Meikakuna, when will Tapferkeit arrrive?” He asks.
“He did not specify.” I respond simply. “However he gave me his word that he will come, however there are some things that he requires to finish before he can come.”
The Golisopod nods at this before looking at the rest. “Now...it is time that we prepaaare for the warrior’s arrivalll...” He lets out another low, chittering chuckle. “Spread word of the Arenaaa, once again...it is opeeen... By spreading word, it makes it easier for him to find us yesss?”
“And what if others show up, dearie?” Evelynn inquires, something that I was about to ask myself.
“Let them come, let them come!” He laughs louder. “Kelviks...is willing to test out other warriorrrs if needed, however by spreading word...spreading knowledge...” The gem on his forehead glows, but only briefly. “...He will find us with...no difficulty... Yes yes...”
He lowers his giant claws to the ground, tapping the stone ever so slightly. “The Arena of Ancieeents...is open once...again...”
Each step of my foot creates a heavy sound, click clack they go as the noise bounces off the walls.
The halls are now much brighter after I increased the amount of power put into the crystal torches that lined the halls, making it appear far less abandoned. It looks better this way, much better.
A satisfied hiss escapes my maw as I continue to make my way through the stone structure, my gaze focused strictly on the path before me.
This place is old...very old, a place of ancients indeed. I remember went I first discovered it, a small creature I was. Afraid...weak...ignorant... But no more, Kelviks is stronger now. This place has given me strength, a new purpose. It took care of me, so it’s only expected that I take care of it in turn.
So far only three of the ones who dwell here are aware of the potential warrior, Tapferkeit. Evelynn and Messara now wield this information and Meikakuna is currently seeking him out to see if he truly is as worthy as we believe, so that leaves one more...
I know these walls like the back of my own claws so I know when I’m drawing near, but the most simplest sign of when one is dwelling close to his chambers is when the air starts becoming humid. And humid does it grow...
Soon the halls open to a massive chamber, unfiltered sunlight shining in from the ceiling. This place is normally underground, however this opening has brought in more than just sunlight.
Several waterfalls of numerous sizes pour from several openings, striking carved channels and eventually flowing into various chambers that travel farther beneath the earth. Covering the walls and channels are vast assortments of plants of all kinds of species, ranging from trees to herbs to flowers to berry bushes.
Forest is a proper term that comes to mind, which is quite remarkable on how well he maintains this place. A great deal of dirt has been brought from above, for plants cannot grow on stone after all. The humid air causes moss to grow on the walls and trees, giving everything a very vibrant green appearance.
Paradise is another word that comes to mind, and for the effort he has put into this...it is a deserving title.
Eventually I spy the one I seek, the one who takes care of this underground forest.
His name is Baborachi, a very shy yet kind Machamp. He wears a brown set of cargo pants, the only clothes that he wears. Around his neck is necklace of flowers, a ‘Lei’ as he calls it. It is something often found in the Alola Region, where locals would give these to tourists as an affectionate means of greetings and fair-well. Wrapped around his waist are several layers of white bandages, something that he has no desire to speak about.
From what I can see, Baborachi is currently tending to his gardens. He grows fresh food here, a large assortment of fruits and vegetables. He also grows special herbs used for medical purposes, and yet he also knows how to utilize these as well. Skilled in cooking and medicine he is, even the ‘cold Meikakuna’ has fallen smitten to his pastries. She never admits it, but Kelviks knows...
I stop at the edge of the garden, allowing him to noticing me on his own time. And eventually he does... Upon finishing with watering the fauna, his eyes glance up before recoiling at the sight of my presence.
Such a reaction is normal for Baborachi, since he’s not a very social individual. However he and I have grown to know each other quite well, so it never lasts for long. Eventually an awkward smile forms on his lips, he averts his gaze from me before picking up the assortment of gardening tools strewn about.
“K-Kelviks, I didn’t realize you were here.” He says quietly, still avoiding eye contact. “Sorry for not noticing, I was...focused...”
A hiss-like chuckle escapes me as I shake my head in amusement. “No no no... Kelviks...has just arriiiived, so it is...understandable.”
It’s interesting to see a Machamp such as Baborachi to act so nervous around others. He stands a few inches taller than your average Machamp, he would be quite an intimidating individual if it weren’t for his withdrawn nature and the Lei he wears around his neck.
But Kelviks doesn’t judge him for those qualities, for everyone is different yes?
“Kelviks has...neeeews...to share!” I say after a few moments of silence. “News...that you must know...”
This causes Baborachi to pause before meeting my gaze, his behavior betraying his curiosity. “News...?” He asks, however a few seconds of our gazes matching were too much for the Machamp for he quickly looks away.
“Yes...” I nod. “Meikakuna...has found a potential wariorrrr, one...who may be the ooooone...”
Upon hearing this he freezes, a look of complete dread covering his face.
Baborachi is an excellent fighter, one of the strongest Kelviks has ever laid eyes on. However...he dislikes violence, despises it even... He is a pacifist at heart, he avoids physical conflict at all cost.
“Baborachi...” I say slowly, looking at him with concern. “Kelviks...will not force you to fight, I can...find anotheeeeer to take your place...” I take a step forward and rest one of my large claws on his shoulder. “You can still stay here...if you desiiiire even if you do not fight, you are a good friend to us all. To see you pained does not sit well with Kelviks, so do not feel...obligated to fight.”
The Machamp closes his eyes, obviously wrestling over his emotions. He takes a long, deep breath before opening his eyes. “Kelviks...” He sighs, shaking his head slowly. “I have to, I’m...the only one who can do this. You told me this yourself... Me and the others...we’re the only ones to be the champions of this place.” He shrugs off my claw before turning to face me, a weak smile on his face. “Thank you, Kelviks. But until we...find the right person, I’ll have to keep...doing this.”
"Very wellll...” I sigh, shaking my own head once. “The choice...is yoooours, Baborachi. Remember...” My mouth widens into a grin, but the mask concealing my maw hides conceals it. “This is an arenaaaa, not...a prisoooon...”
He looks at me for a while, his smile growing ever so slightly. Eventually he looks away sheepishly, one of his arms subconsciously grabbing the wrists of another. This is a common habit for Baborachi, something that he often does when he’s nervous. “T-Thanks Kelviks...” He whispers.
I let out a hissing chuckle. “Thank Kelviks? No no... Kelviks thanks yooooou... You help greatly, with your participation and...” My eyes twinkle with mirth. “...cooking skills...”
A blush quickly makes his way to his face as he takes a step back. “I’m n-not that g-good!” He stutters. “There are o-others f-far better than me!”
I tilt my head slightly. “Not...good?” At this point I can barely contain my laughter. “Baborachi...even Meikakuna has been entranced with your...cookiiiiing.”
At this point Baborachi is a blushing, stuttering mess. I let out another chuckle before turning away, deciding that I shouldn’t tease him further. “Kelviks will leave now, I...sense...a fight going on in the areeena.”
Sense it I do, for I can feel it in the walls and floor. The constant rhythmic beats of the waterfalls has been disturbed by erratic vibrations in the stone, something that’s created by only a few things. Combat...is one of them... “Yes yes... I must...oversee iiiit...” I glance behind me at the Machamp. “Kelviks will see you again yesss?”
Now recovered (but still blushing) he gives me a small smile. “Yeah... See you later Kelviks...”
With that I give a small nod before making my way out of the massive, plant-filled chamber.
There is a fight going on within these walls, and I cannot let it go by unsupervised... No no, that won’t do...won’t do at all...
Kelviks takes care of the arena, but he also oversees all fights within its walls.
The cream-sicle colored Lopunny had walked around the Arena of Ancients with a strong curiosity and wanderlust that was waiting to see what all the place had to offer. What he got was much more than he expected however. and he was completely astonished.
What caught his eye you ask?
While the AoA was completely underground, there was a beautiful and flourishing garden down here! It contained all types of plants, flowers, vegetables and even a Palm tree or two! It was a Tropical paradise!
Blayz took his time to explain the garden and looked around thoroughly but, one thing caught his eye. It was a flower that he had never seen. It was pretty big, had six petals all very vibrant purple with little stems poking out of the middle. He had no idea what it was– Wait, thats the big tall gray guy he met on Valentine’s day!
“He’s a pretty shy guy from what I remember, I’ll approach him slowly and calmly.” The hare thought to himself as he got up and took very light steps toward the muscular creature with a warm grin on his face.
“Hello there! Judging by the flowers around your neck, I would guess you take care of this beautiful garden? If you do, I’d like to know more about that really pretty purple flower over there!
Oh! Sorry for my poor manners!” he said as he took a bow. and raised up with a wide smile.
“We met during Valentine’s Day, my name’s Blayz! I didn’t catch yours however, Mr…?”
Baborachi was busy tending to one of his growing vegetable patches when the Lopunny suddenly came into view and startled him with his sudden appearance and greetings.
He recognized him instantly from that one time he was forced to attempt to say a ‘pick-up line’ to a random stranger by Evelynn, as well as how badly it went. His face flushes with embarrassment from the memory as he quickly stands to his feet, but seeing how friendly the Lopunny was...the feeling didn’t last for very long.
His question on the particular flower caught his attention as he turns his gaze to it, upon seeing the plant he couldn’t help but smile.
“W-Well...” He begins slowly. “That’s a Hibiscus, a plant found in t-tropical regions.” The Machamp straightens himself as he recalls his knowledge on the particular flower. “It comes in many colors, such as reds...whites...oranges...and a few others.” With each second he’s talking, his smile grows and the more comfortable he begins. “From what I’ve read, Hibiscus has many uses in various cultures. One of them being in Alolah.”
He walks over to the plant and touches the petals, feeling them. “One thing about them is that if a woman wears a Hibiscus flower over her right ear, it means that they’re either in a relationship or married.” With great care he slowly plucks one of the flower from a stem that was leaning a bit too far too the ground, with it he slowly walks back to Blayz. “And if they wear it over their left ear, it means that they’re available for a relationship.” With that he offers the flower to Blayz. “Although it’s not my...favorite flower, I really think it’s beautiful.”
It took him a few moments to realize that the Lopunny introduced himself, causing his flustered personality to return once more. “O-oh...I’m s-sorry, I forget to introduce myself as w-well. I am...Baborachi, it’s...nice to meet you.”
Tsubayuki@Babarochi: I have heard many things about the arena here as well as its champions. The champions that were picked by the arena’s keeper. Knowing this I must say, and I mean no offense by this. But I find it rather curious that such a timid individual such as yourself would be chosen for such a position. However I believe one should not judge how another fights purely from how they act. Either way, I wish to know why it is you agreed to be their champion. That is if you wish to share your reasoning with me.
The Machamp fidgets in place after the white Lopunny finishes her question, his eyes darting from left to right...looking at anything but her. The combination of the fact a stranger stands before him and the question has made him very nervous.
After what felt like an eternity he takes a small quiet breath before slowly looking at her...and begins to speak.
“I...d-don’t blame you...” He says quietly, almost too quiet to hear. “M-many think the same t-thing, why m-me of all people?”
He closes his eyes. “The r-reason...is because what I’m c-capable of. I can l-lock my emotions away, t-turning myself into s-something...different. I c-couldn’t hurt anyone even...if I tried, b-but...” The Machamp falls silent again, as if trying he’s trying to recover his courage to speak.
Several more moments passed until he eventually opens his eyes...his expression filled with sorrow. “In that s-state, I am capable of doing things I...would never d-do. I-I’ve k-killed people because of i-it, it turns me into an unfeeling m-monster... I-It’s l-like something else is controlling my b-body...”
He looks away, one of his forearms instinctively grabbing the wrist of the other. “It t-took me a while to c-control it, to prevent it from h-happening on its own. Now I can c-call on it anytime I like, and...” Baborachi closes his eyes again. “...s-stop it before I k-kill anyone.”
The Machamp’s forearm releases its grip before quickly touching the bandages around his waist as the painful memories resurface, how he killed his childhood friend because of it. “I-I don’t like f-fighting...” He whispers. “I-It’s not the r-right answer, i-it causes pain...and d-death. But...I became Kelviks’ c-champion because he a-asked me after seeing what I could do...”
Baborachi lets out a small sigh, opening his eyes again. “As much as I d-don’t like it, being his champion g-gives me a r-reason to...fight. I-It’s not just for f-fighting to hurt others, but...to find someone that can help stop a monster... I’ve hurt a lot of people who c-challenged us, but...” He looks down, a faint smile on his lips. “I take care of them so they can recover, I t-took up medicine a long time ago...so I could help others who have been hurt. So...that is why I a-agreed...”
The smile only lasted for a few moments, eventually he turns his back to her...no longer finding the will to look at her any longer. “I hope...that answers your q-questions, I’m sorry if I didn’t.”
24. In their own words, how would your character describe what their lover is like?
As of currently, Baborachi doesn’t have a lover. In fact he’s not even actively looking for one, however there are many specific qualities he seeks if he were to consider getting into a relationship (after overcoming his own shyness of course).
He desires for someone who shares his own ideals on violence and how it shouldn’t always be the answer.
He also wants someone who also shares his love for nature, to be as connected to the wildlife as he is. He dislikes living in rather noisy and bustling places, so cities are out for him.
Another big one is someone who’s very patient with him, and even though he dislikes constant social interactions since it can overwhelm him...having someone to get the guy out of his shell once in a while will help him greatly.
