victory_road | [Action]

Entry tags:

[Action]

Who: Fushimi, Prompto and maybe you too?
Where: Goldenrod Magnet Train Station
When: March 8th
Summary: Waiting on the Magnet train, delayed due to a swarm of Kricketune.
Rating: T, for possible language and subtle threats of violence against annoying Pokemon.

Log ->

This swarm was getting on Fushimi's last nerve. He had hoped to hop the train to Kanto today, to check out that area but instead, he was stuck in the Magnet Train terminal, waiting for them to clear the rampant Kricketune problem off the tracks. If they weren't so large and most likely quite intelligent Fushimi would have suggested to just run them over.

Though after a long day of listening to them singing and buzzing about he was starting to think the suggestion was a valid one regardless of their intelligence. Or lack thereof, considering their current inability to harmonize.

Seri the Frogadier was sitting beside him with Misaki, both looking a little agitated with the noise. Pong, on the other hand, was bopping her Natu body back and forth, clearly dancing to some tune she'd managed to find in all the racket. At least one of them was enjoying themselves.

On his other side, tucked up close against him was Kushina who was holding his blanket around his shoulders as he watched Fushimi continue to work on the game Captain Ash had sent them.

All in all it could have been considered almost peaceful if not for the Kricketune racket outside the terminal.

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After Iggy left, Prompto grew restless quickly. As much as he wanted to bury himself in his home in Olivine, he knew that he couldn't. It wouldn't be fair to his Pokemon. And he had been planning to travel anyway. Just now ... there wasn't really a destination in mind.

So he'd taken one of those weird teleport pad things back to where it started, to Goldenrod, with the idea to head somewhere else. Somewhere different. But to get much further than Johto he'd need the train. Which was apparently delayed due to a Kricketune infestation.

Wandering the terminal he looked around and snapped various photos, trying to find a spark of inspiration - Ignis disappearing really hit him hard. Pryna, his best girl and the most perfect Eevee, sat on Prompto's shoulder while three other Eevees trotted beside him. A Houndour walked a few paces in front, keeping his eyes, ears, and nose peeled for anything or anyone that might pose a threat to his trainer.

A dancing Natu caught the blond's eyes and he snapped several pictures in succession, a small smile forming. The ever-observant Pryna noticed and chirped softly, nosing a freckled cheek while giving a pointed look to the youngest Eevee (who happened to be the most social). Lucy caught on quickly and excitedly bounded over to the bopping bird, twilling an exuberant hello all the while.

"Lucy, wait!" Prompto jogged over to the pair, nodding to each of other Pokemon in turn, before facing the dark haired boy seated among them.

"I am so sorry. She must've been drawn to the dancing. I hope we didn't startle you too much..." A hand lifted to scratch the back of his neck as he offered a crooked and sheepish smile to the stranger. "I'm Prompto, by the way. Prompto Argentum." His other hand extended between them, the offer of a handshake hanging in the air.

Pong notices the approaching Eevee and releases her hold on the bench. She rolls down the armrest and lands on her feet, shaking her ruffled, frizzy feathers out. Off she bounces, approaching Lucy as quickly as she was approaching her.

"Hi! Hi! Hi!" Said with each bounce until she bounces up and lands atop Lucy's head. She immediately nestles down, little taloned feet gripping into the fur as she continues to bebop to the Kricketunes' cricket tunes.

Seri and Misaki both turned their heads to look at Prompto but neither moved their hands from their ears. Who was this guy, running up to them? Fushimi wasn't going to be pleased. Kushina certainly wasn't, as he quickly flips his blanket up over his head to hide. The branches on his head were holding it out though...

Fushimi.. was not startled. He glances up from his laptop, at Prompto's face while not acknowledging the hand extended towards him at all.

"...Okay? Are you looking to battle or something? It's not my fault Pong made you come over here."

Lucy crossed her eyes up, trying to see the Natu now perched on her head. Of course she couldn't, but it wasn't hurting her head and maybe they could be friends! So she decided to try her hand at chirping along with the out-of-tune Kricketunes to add more of a rhythm for her new friend to dance to. Chibi and Fleuret came up to her and took turns sniffing at the unfamiliar bird. Chibi immediately began dancing a bit while Fleuret just watched his companions, trying to hide his smile. It wouldn't do to show that he thought them quite funny.

Pryna, meanwhile, had hopped off Prompto's shoulder and attempted making introductions to the other Pokemon seated next to the rude stranger. Gladio simply sat and kept his eyes on the man, feeling something ... off.

"Uh, n-no? I just ... I thought I should apologize for Lucy coming over here like that. A-and maybe try making a friend..." Prompto slowly lowered his hand, flushing with embarrassment and irritation. This guy had no reason to be so nasty!

Maybe it was the cacophony of noise putting this guy on edge? He always tried to be nice and friendly, and he wasn't about to be mean or cold just because he was hurting - that just wasn't him. "N' I never said it was your fault we came over. She's a cute one, tryin' to make the best out of this mess."

He looked around, noticing the other Pokemon covering their ears and feeling a pang of sympathy."If you n' your other Pokemon don't like the noise, why are you guys just sittin' here? Wouldn't it make more sense to wait outside the terminal?"

This was great, thought Pong. She now had a dancing party! She starts singing as well, joining into the noise which draws Misaki over. The Scraggy hops off the bench and storms over to try and bat at Pong who rolls backward down Lucy's back to get away from him. She was laughing all the while, even as Misaki tries to follow after her.

"Was she bothering me?" Fushimi asks flatly, eyes having returned to his laptop to continue his work.

It was taking a lot to not correct this person on how he was speaking. 'N wasn't a word. Tryin' wasn't a word. He was dropping letters and sounded ignorant and like someone from--

Well. He'd have fit well in HOMRA at least.

"Because it's louder outside the terminal and we're currently waiting for the train." Because it wasn't supposed to have taken this long, according to the terminal clerk.

The Phantump next to him was peeking out at the young blond man who was talking to Fushimi. He slowly gives a small wave, very cautiously.

"Right now it seems like everything is bothering you."

The words came out before Prompto could stop them and he immediately looked down, trying to take a moment to collect himself. He shouldn't let his pain make him lash out, and he immediately felt bad about his words.

"I'm sorry, that was rude." Seeing the shy Phantump, Prompto offered a sunny smile and a gentle wave of his own. Pryna chirped softly, waving one of her little paws and offering a sweet "Hello, I'm Pryna and that's Prompto. Want to be friends?"

Meanwhile, Prompto continued trying to stammer out something that might make this guy at least acknowledge him without such a bite to his voice. "L-look, I stayed here a while back an' I know this little hole-in-the-wall coffee shop. I-it's really quiet there. And I could have Lucy keep Pong occupied if you want, since you seem like you prefer the quiet an' all ..."

His voice trailed off, nervousness and anxiety settling in. Gods no wonder he only had Noct as a friend. He was terrible at this. At least the Phantump seemed to like him, if only from that one little wave.

The guy was still here. He was still talking. What was his name? Prompto Argentum. Sounded fake. Who was named after random Latin words? Did he care enough to ask..? Probably not.

Kushina pulls the blanket quickly back over his head. But Misaki was glad to turn and toddle back over to look at the Eevee who was offering treats. Hello, what was this? Treats? Misaki wanted a treat. How did one get a treat?

He looks back at Kushina and remembers that he waved. So the Scraggy waves too then looks expectantly at Pryna.

Fushimi looks at a spot just above his laptop as he realizes this .. wasn't going to happen right now. He wasn't going to be able to focus with the noise and now someone had shown up and started chattering at him.

"...Data, save where you are."

The screen of the laptop glowed particularly bright as Fushimi turns it so the light from a little camera could cast out and allow Porygon to materialize. It rocks back and forth in a stretch motion before accepting being put back into the Pokeball.

Fushimi tucks his laptop away and stands, hooking the bag over his shoulder. He tucks his hands into his pockets, nudging his blue coat out of the way as he does so. Seri slides off the bench to follow, giving Misaki's shoulder a shove as she passes him. Let's go, the boss was moving.

"Fine. Let's see your hole in the wall."

He deliberately walks into Prompto's space, eyes holding his for a long moment before he passes, one hand reaching up to adjust his glasses.

Pryna sees the Scraggy come closer and wave, and her head tilts when she sees the way it looks at her ... like it's waiting for something. She looks to the Phantump and sees that he took the sweet but covered himself back up. Oh! The Scraggy must want a sweet too. Good thing she has a few of these tucked away then.

With a smile and a cheerful twill, the Eevee happily holds out one of the sweet Poffins Ignis had made special for her. She still had a bunch, and she never really minded sharing anyway. "Here, have one! My trainer's friend made them and they're really good!"

Prompto watches with rapt attention as a Porygon appears and then disappears, completely fascinated by the programmed Pokemon. He's so entranced he misses the fact that the stranger is packing up to move until his space is invaded. The blond immediately flinches, a knee-jerk reaction thanks to his time in Ardyn's care.

Great, now the guy is going to think he's some scared wimp. Ugh. At least he hasn't told Prompto to buzz off yet. Turning to look at Lucy, Chibi, and Fleuret, Prompto gives a sharp whistle and calls out to them. "Hey guys, c'mon. We're heading out."

Fleuret hasn't really enjoyed the whistling but it's the easiest way for Prompto's voice to catch everyone's attention at once, especially over distances. The other two immediately trot towards him, chittering among themselves before Chibi yips and leaps onto Gladio's back. The Houndour huffs but bears the crazy one's antics, walking steadily between Prompto and the stranger. He still doesn't like that guy's attitude. And those boots look really familiar...

"S-so the place is called Golden Grounds. The workers were always pretty nice to me, an' Iggy -- he liked the quiet too... A-anyway, I'm sure you'll like the peace. A-and I'll get you a coffee or tea or somethin'. To apologize for bothering you." Prompto 'Always Trying Hard' Argentum, at your service. He takes a few quick steps so that he can lead the way, since this shop was pretty much hidden from the main strips.

"Uh, follow me I guess?" Ah yes, confidence.

Misaki takes it with a quite please look, biting into it. Yes yes, this is good. He liked it. He gives Pryna a thumbs up as his mouth was full. This was good, very good. The friend should definitely make a ton more, a thousand more. He stumbles a little at the shove and follows after Seri to push at her. She wasn't as affected though.

Fushimi didn't really care how Prompto reacted. Everyone was different. Though it was a little satisfying to have someone be afraid of him. It wasn't like he was able to be in that position that often.

"Iggy." He says flatly. Was that the name of a Pokemon? he certainly hoped it was.

He glances down at the Houndour, eyeing it before looking ahead again. This guy was trying really hard to get into his good graces. It was strange. Reminded him a lot of-- Well, that was beside the point.

"Seri, go ahead to Nekote's and get something to eat for you and the others." He handed her a small pouch. The Frogadier nods solemnly and darts away.

Gods, Prompto's never been so embarrassed in his life. And he's had some pretty spectacular fails, if he's being honest. This guy is seriously clearly just not interested in being friends and once they get to the cafe, Prompto is going to just buy the guy his apology drink and leave.

Maybe he was meant to be alone after all.

"Iggy - Ignis - is my friend. He really helped me when I got here and ... and now he's gone." Titan's ass, just stop talking. "S-so now I'm just gonna travel around a bit. Take pictures, probably get some more Pokemon, an' do whatever comes to mind I guess." Nope, just going to keep rambling because of nerves. Of course.

"I think he'd want me to make new friends though. Probably make some dumb pun about 'expanding my palate' or something." A genuine giggle escapes him as he remembers all those terrible puns. Well, now this guy can think he's crazy too. "Turns out I'm pants at that. Oh, we're here."

As Prompto ushers the stranger (he still hasn't gotten the guy's name) into the cafe, Pryna follows the Frogadier with her eyes. Chibi, Fleuret, and Lucy are still fawning over the Natu and Gladio is now glaring at the strange man. He's pretty sure he recognizes the hat that Scraggy wears and he seriously doesn't like how this guy is treating his trainer.

Pryna chirps at Misaki, trying to get the Scraggy to stay outside with them. While Golden Grounds is Pokemon friendly, Chibi and Lucy are definitely too loud for the place's ambiance. Besides, there's more room to play outside.

Inside the shop, the baristas greet the two men. "Uh, I'll just have a chamomile tea. A-and I'm payin' for this guy too, so just add whatever he gets to my bill," Prompto says softly, quickly scurrying to the pick-up area to avoid being near the stranger.

Downcast eyes look out the window and catch sight of the playing Pokemon, his camera rising and snapping photo after photo almost unconsciously. They'll be sad to leave their new friends, but clearly this guy is not looking for a travelling companion. Or any companion.

This guy really was down in the dumps. It was actively depressing to listen to. Was he trying to garner sympathy then? No, seemed he just had a low opinion of himself. That was embarrassing. Was this all because one friend vanished?

He lets Prompto scurry away for the moment so he could give his offer then follows. His hands remained in his pockets as he stood just close enough to be uncomfortably close.

"So your friend is gone and you're all alone? I don't have anyone like that here so no one to ditch me either."

He shrugs, looking bored.

"You can follow me then. We're going the same way and no point in travelling alone if that's the case."

His eyes turn away as he shifts his weight to look out the window.

Misaki was chasing Chibi and Lucy around while Pong rolled behind them.

"People don't like me much."

Prompto feels the intrusion into his space and tenses a bit, not sure what to make of this guy. He lowers his camera and listens as the stranger speaks. Is he mocking him? Or does he really mean it?

He can't help the snort at those last words, though. "Uh, yea. You kinda give off an ... unapproachable vibe."

Turning away from the window, he looks at the stranger's face.

"I'm not all alone. I've got two other friends here too, one from home and one I made here. But ... after Iggy left I couldn't stay in Olivine anymore. Noctis tends to travel around a lot and Ash does too sometimes, I think. I actually don't really know what Ash does."

Yup, babbling again.

"So I decided to travel. See what else is here and push myself not to hide behind the only two friends I have left."

He leans against the window and tries to catch the stranger's eyes. Tries to make sure there's no speck of Ardyn in them.

Yea, he still has some issues about that. Especially now that he's out on his own.

"... I'd like that - travelling with you - if you're sure it's okay. Sometimes I can talk a lot n' I'm all about stopping to take photos. But if we're gonna travel together, shouldn't I know your name?" His voice is soft, still unsure, but hopeful. Sky blue eyes search the stranger's face as Prompto waits for an answer.

Outside, Pryna chitters with Fleuret as Gladio keeps watch over the others, occasionally letting out an amused bark as the Natu rolls around behind the two Eevees and the Scraggy.

Fushimi shrugs because he didn't care what vibe he put off. His personality hadn't changed much since middle school and he doubted it would change anymore in the future. It was just ingrained in who he was at this point.

"Oh, so you have friends but no desire to travel with them. Or they you..?"

The only look in Fushimi's eyes were a subtle irritation. He reaches ups to push his hand through his hair and adjust his glasses.

"If the latter is the case then I get it." He looks at Prompto. "Some people are your friend until something better comes along. Then it's like you don't even exist."

He turns when their order is called and goes to pick it up, speaking over his shoulder.

"Fushimi Sar--Well, you're European, so it'd be Saruhiko Fushimi." He turns to hand the cup to Prompto. "Fushimi is fine. We should eat outside."

Pong alters her rolling route to roll towards Gladio, bumping into his legs. She gets back on her feet and shakes out her fathers before starting to groom Gladio's legs.

Gladio ... isn't sure what to do in this moment. This round bird is poking at him with her beak but it doesn't hurt so it's clearly not an attack. He eyes her curiously and lets out a nervous whine, not wanting to growl or bark and scare the little thing.

Pryna's ears twitch and she looks to the Houndour before twilling with laughter. She trots over as Chibi launches himself onto Gladio's shoulders, kneading his back and turning in circles before plopping down to laze and watch Pong groom their guard dog.

Inside the cafe, Prompto stammers as he tries to defend his friends. "I-it's not that I don't wanna travel with them, or that they don't wanna travel with me. I just ... I need to do something without them. The last time we were separated some really bad things happened to me an' I've been scared to be without them."

He squares his shoulders and looks directly at his new friend(?). "That sorta thing isn't fair to them o-or to me or my Pokemon. So I set out on my own and decided I'm gonna make at least one new friend if not more while I see this world."

Prompto cocks his head at being called 'European' but smiles as he finally gets the guy's name. Accepting the drink, the blond takes a sip and sighs in pleasure - the tea here was always brewed really well.

"Uh, what's a European? Pretty sure I'm not one of those - I'm a Niff. Created in Niflheim. But I was raised in Lucis, so maybe technically I'm Lucian? It's complicated..." Drink in one hand, camera in the other, Prompto follows Fushimi outside and chuckles at the sight of their Pokemon.

"Looks like they're getting along really well. Guess we're meant to travel together for at least a little, yea?"

At this point, Lucy joined in the grooming by licking at whichever leg the Natu abandons and Pryna had taken residence pressed up against Gladio's side, letting out calming chirps and purrs to remind the formerly-abused Houndour that he wasn't being attacked or hurt and that he was around friends.

Fleuret had wandered closer, not exactly joining in the nonsense but still enjoying the happiness of her friends. And that silly bird.

"Didn't say they were the type. You're the one who assumed I did. Wonder why." He brings his cup up to his lips to take a sip but pauses. "No point in being scared. Nothing scary or dangerous in this world."

He strolls towards the outside, wanting to sit on the patio. He practically drapes himself into the chair, arm leaning over the back and legs crossing. He didn't get most of those words that were just spouted at him, other than Lucis. It was Latin.

"Blond hair, blue eyes... That's European to me. Westerner features. Your name is Latin though. So is the name of your city."

He looks out at the Pokemon playing, raising a brow. If that was an indication of how they should travel together then... This person probably would follow anyone anywhere.

Pong was continuing her grooming until Seri appears again, carrying a little sack. She starts to silently hand out treats that she'd gone and bought. Misaki looked quite pleased and starts helping hand them out, cautiously offering one to Gladio too.

Off to the side, closer to the cafe was a Purrloin, sitting and watching with it's ears down. It slinks along the side of the cafe, watching Gladio specifically, looking fearful.

"Easier said than done, dude." Prompto might be fairly forthcoming with random bits of his life, but he's not about to open up to a brand new person about what happened to him.

He notices how Fushimi sprawls and grins into his tea, reminded instantly of Noctis. That sort of casual arrogance that, at least in Noct's case, wasn't intentional but was definitely present. The blond is pretty sure it's entirely intentional in Fushimi's case, but to each their own, right?

"So I guess Lucian to me is Latin to you. That's kinda cool. What's your world like?"

The Frogadier's return catches everyone's eyes, and Gladio is startled when a treat is hesitantly held out in front of him. He huffs and turns away, now facing the building, and his eyes immediately seek out his trainer. Good, he's still safe. The movement jostles Chibi off of his perch and the resulting squeaks quiet when Chibi darts forward to steal the treat Gladio declined, Pryna quickly moving to quell any upset.

"He doesn't mean anything by it, honest. Gladiolus doesn't like to eat food unless our trainer gives it to him. If he didn't like you, you'd know."

Lucy hops over to Fleuret, trying to get him to come closer to their group. Instead, the more reserved Eevee pads towards Prompto and settles at his feet, leaving Lucy to either join him or go back to everyone else. The dark Eevee flicks her tail and climbs atop their trainer's shoulder, eventually settling on his right one. Unlike Pryna, who liked to wrap her tail around Prompto's shoulders, Lucy lets hers hang down, ruffling in the gentle breeze.

Arrogance was in Fushimi's blood. Just look at his roots. On top of that, he was third in command in Scepter for with less time on the books than a lot of the people there. He had a right to be arrogant considering all things. Of course, this guy would probably never know any of that. Fushimi had no intention on sharing.

"Advanced in technology. Far more than this place." Despite the few things that were advanced here. "Little bit of magic. Otherwise, boring."

Like any other world, he was certain. Sure, things happened there but more often than not it was the daily grind. Every world had the boring day to day for the majority of folk.

There was an awkward pause before it seemed Fushimi remembered basic conversation etiquette.

"Your's?"

Misaki was more upset that Chibi had stolen the treat because he definitely would have eaten it since Gladio declined it. He gives the Eevee a distressed look before Seri relents and gives her his so he would stop looking so down.

The Purrloin that was slinking about paused, sniffing cautiously at Prompto's chair. It was shivering, fur fluffed to try and keep warm. It noses around Prompto's bag before meowing softly to try and get his attention. Food?

Prompto sat comfortably, enjoying the weight of Lucy on his shoulder and the presence of Fleuret by his feet. He listened as Fushimi spoke and perked a bit at the mention of magic and technology, but decided not to just blurt out a response. He knew he talked too much most of the time, and he'd already figured this new guy wasn't one for the random chatter Prompto excelled at.

His lips split into a bright smile, genuinely pleased and surprised that Fushimi bothered to ask.

"Uh, Insomnia was pretty technologically advanced. Especially compared to the rest of Lucis. There's some magic there - but only in the royal line and they'll lend some of it to the Kingsglaive and Crownsguard. Oh! We have daemons too. They come out at night and can range from tiny to gigantic. And they're all seriously dangerous." It still hurt to refer to Insomnia in the past tense, and the pain probably showed on Prompto's face. But he doubted Fushimi would care.

"Niflheim was waaaay more technologically advanced than Lucis. But it wasn't a good kind of advancement ..." He trailed off and sipped his tea again, not really wanting to talk about that place.

Chibi seemed wholly oblivious to Misaki's mood, happily munching away on the treat. Pryna watched Seri give up his treat and gave a soft snort of laughter before padding towards the Frogadier and offering up one of her own special treats from Ignis.

"Here, they were made special by a friend. They're really good, I promise!"

Prompto heard a soft meow and looked down as did Lucy, her dark fuzzy head and ears peeking around blond hair to see what was begging. Fleuret looked up and somewhat narrowed his eyes before shrugging and leaning further against Prompto's legs.

"Oh you poor thing you must be freezing. C'mon up here!" He reached down to gently pick up the Purrloin before fishing around one of his bag's pockets for a treat and a scarf. Softly tucking a soft, black, fleece-lined scarf around the shivering Pokemon, Prompto gingerly held out another one of Iggy's homemade Poffins. He had a lot left and this sweet little thing could certainly use a special treat.

"I think this place sells hot chocolate made for Pokemon. Though if I get one for this little wanderer I'll definitely get some for everyone. Would it be alright for me to get some for your guys too?" He's so earnest in his asking, and he sweetly coos and pets the Purrloin in his lap hoping to help it warm up faster.

That was a lot of information that Fushimi hadn't really asked for or even remotely cared about. Sure, it was interesting but at what point would he be able to use that information? The answer was an easy never. But he was trailing off, and Fushimi was just.. looking at him for the moment as he was formulating a response.

".... We don't have daemons. Strains though. We have those. Which are.. essentially people who have abilities without being associated with a clan." Was that close? There was a horse that was a strain, so it must count at least to some degree like a daemon.

Seri glanced at the offered treat. She takes it with a cautious look, giving it a sniff before taking a bite. Not exactly her favorite flavor but she'd tasted worse. She nods silently to Pryna in gratitude.

The Purrloin makes a prrt! noise as it's picked up. It settles into the scarf, doing happy paws against the fleece. It sniffs at the treat, ears going forward and it starts taking little bites... then bigger bites.

Fushimi shrugs, watching the Purrloin be so. ... cuddly. What a little shit.

"Not a problem with me. Go for it."

The Purrloin had finished the treat and was now sniffing around for more. It looks at Prompto's bag and reaches out a tentative paw to tap at it.

"I can watch your bag if it intends on being a thief though." Fushimi smirks slightly before taking a sip.

Prompto's already starting to stand, the Purrloin gently cradled in his arms and Lucy shifting around on his shoulder, and he smiles cheerfully at Fushimi. "Nah, you don't have to trouble yourself with that. I'll leave it and Fleuret n' Gladio can keep an eye on it. You were workin' on your computer before, why not go back to that while you've got the time an' the quiet? When I'm done inside I can go keep the Pokemon company too, so I don't bug you anymore."

He really wants to ask about the things Fushimi called Strains. And about the clans. But maybe he'll ask later. Prompto has a shivering and hungry Purrloin to feed and a small brood of Pokemon to get drinks for. "Back in a jiffy!"

When he heard his trainer mention him, Gladio's ears perked and he moved a little closer. Fleuret simply looked to the bag then back to the Houndour, so he figured he was supposed to keep an eye on the backpack. Easy. No problem.

He begins padding closer, trying not to knock over the Natu or dislodge any of the other little ones around him too much. Chibi squeaks and tries to waylay his companion while Pryna tuts before trying to engage the younger Eevee so that Gladio could go where he wanted.

Prompto coo's to the Purrloin as he orders a special toasted PokePastry for it as well as little PokeCinos (without any actual caffeine) for all of the Pokemon. "Did lose you? Or are you on your own?" He pays and another, terrible, thought comes to mind and he gently pets the Purrloin as they wait for their order.

"I hope it wasn't a nasty Rocket that just left you out like that. They can be so cruel..." He's lost in his soft scratching and petting until a barista slides two bags his way. Thankful for all the hauling he got used to back home, Prompto easily grabbed the two bags in the arm not holding the Purrloin and made for the door.

Time to spoil a bunch of Pokemon, and give this little one the special pastry.

Pong rolls herself along with Gladio, cheeping all the way. What a nice dog, what a good dog! She liked him very much, fluffing her feathers up at him before reaching a foot out to grasp his fur. She was determined. She gives a little tug to launch herself up with a flap of wings to get on his back.

Seri follows to take a seat at the table, while Misaki stays behind, to hang out with Pryna who.. well she had food. He liked the ones that have food, to be perfectly honest. Who wouldn't?

The Purrloin purrs, nuzzling deep into Prompto's arms. He was very happy to get this amount of cuddling and pets. He pokes his head out at the word 'rockets' and peers up at Prompto, ears turning this way and that thoughtfully. Then he rolls over onto his back, back legs flopping idly and paws tucking against his chest. Look at him.

Fushimi glanced at Gladio after Prompto went inside, then turns in his seat to look at him. He looked the Houndour over, clicking his tongue. Seri turns in the seat she had stolen, peering at him as well.

She could probably beat him, she thought to herself. She was fast, and had a type advantage. She only needed to go ahead to do so. But what would be the point? Honestly, the only Pokemon worth while here were the Eevees. Surely Fushimi could see that.

Gladio huffs with mild irritation - and a hint of fondness - as Pong flops onto his back. The little bird isn't exactly the most graceful, but she reminds him of a certain pup ... his movements slow to ensure the Natu isn't unseated and he decides to sit diagonally behind Fushimi. This way he can see both the strange man and the Frogadier as well as Fleuret and Prompto's backpack. He makes no move to shake Pong off, and further away, Pryna sees and smiles.

She is currently being held up for treats by an inconsolable Eevee - Chibi still distraught after losing his coveted spot atop the Houndour's back - and is simultaneously trying to get the Scraggy to talk to her - instead of just holding his hands out for more treats. Yes, Pryna could share, but there were only so many of Ignis' homemade Poffins left in her bandanna's stash! The elder Eevee pulls another one out and breaks it in two, offering half to Chibi and half to Misaki. "Do you have a favorite flavor? My trainer might have one you'll like even more than these, but it depends on what sort of tastes you like."

Prompto feels his heart melt when the Purrloin does an upside-down loaf thing and he offers a radiant smile and gentle squeal, lightly squeezing the Pokemon in affection since he couldn't really use his other hand to scratch its belly or ears. Even Lucy chrips happily, unable to deny the cuteness of this Purrloin.

The two make their way outside and Fleuret perks up a bit, scenting the PokeCinos and wanting his unexpected drink sooner rather than later. With a gentle nose-boop to Prompto's temple, Lucy leaps off of his shoulder to get the others. "Prompto got us all a treat! Come on!"

Hearing the approaching stampede, the blond gives Fushimi a quick nod before moving past the table and setting the bags down. He shyly turns towards the Frogadier and holds up one of the cups with a tentative smile. "I got one for you too."

His back to the table, and to Fushimi and his bag, Prompto begins opening and handing out the drinks. With each one, he gives the Pokemon a gentle pat on the head or a scratch behind their ears. Once the drinks are dispersed, he sets the Purrloin down next to its own cup and opens the special pastry. It's warm and toasted and he softly explains that it's all for the Purrloin unless it decides it wants to share.

"But none of you better make this little one feel like he has to, okay? I dunno if a Rocket left them or if someone lost them or if they're alone, but it was shivering and hungry when it came up to me. So please be nice!" All of his Pokemon chirp (or rumble, in Gladio's case) in agreement and Pryna instantly goes to the Purrloin's side and offers it a gentle nuzzle of welcome.

Pong is picking through Gladio's fur now, making it nice and tidy on the back of his head. Yes, good. A nice part and then... yup, alfalfa prong on the top. Perfect. Look how stylish he was! Very nice, very nice. He needed more prongs though, like a Natu!

Misaki is shaking his head, just wanting another one. He didn't care, he just liked treats. He gobbles it down quickly to avoid Chibi trying to steal it, side-eying the little fox thing. Don't be rude! As he turns to look at Pryna again.

"Anything. I like food. Fushimi don't give us no treats!"

Seri eyeballs the cup suspiciously before taking it. Okay? What was she supposed to do with this? She glances at the Purrloin who's nose was shoved fully into the cup before turning towards the pastry next. Oh.

She sips it, her eyes suddenly widening and-- Okay so she liked it. Whatever!

The Purrloin felt so fat right now. He stretches out on the table, then tilts his head up to peer at Fushimi. The cat gives a little head shake and Fushimi sighs.

"Well, if you're not going to do your job you can go back in your Pokeball."

The Purrloin suddenly rolls easily to its feet, standing up and brushing itself off. Well, be like that then! It's not his fault that this guy wanted to stuff him full of food and pamper him.

"Nekote, why you suck at this?! You ain't do nothin that you was supposed to!" Misaki was scolding the cat loudly as it jumped down. He pushes the cat a little. "You suck, you suck at this, you s'posed to be good thief ya?"

Nekote brushes Misaki off with a paw to his face. No way was he going to steal from someone who was this nice. It would just make him cry or something stupid like that.

Gladio's face deadpans when he feels the bird messing up his fur. The grooming was fine - he'd never admit it felt kind of nice, like a head-scratch but better - but this was utter nonsense. Seeing everyone else absorbed in their treats, he sighs a doggy sigh because no one's going to be helping him fix his fur right now. May as well join in, and hopefully get the Natu to take interest in something that wasn't his fur. His own drink lowers his head towards his own cup and starts lapping up his treat, happy rumbles reverberating in his chest.

Pryna trills and grabs cups from her trainer, handing them out. One to Chibi first, if only to keep him from trying to grab from the others, and then one to Misaki. "Here, these are really really good! Our trainer got one for everyone! Why don't you get treats? Your trainer should give you guys more treats."

The Eevee plops a cup next to Gladio for Pong before bringing one over towards the table for Fleuret. When she's satisfied everyone has their treat she begins slurping at hers, a content purr resonating from her small body as her white tail swishes happily.

Prompto smiled at the Frogadier's reaction and decides to snap some photos of the group enjoying their treats. Then he hears what Fushimi says to the Purrloin and almost drops his camera in shock.

"W-wait. This is your Purrloin? Why didn't you say anything? And what job? It's not nice to force Pokemon to stay in their Pokeballs just because you're not happy with them." His voice gets stronger as he speaks. "I mean, I know they don't really suffer in there but a Pokeball isn't supposed to be a punishment."

He's risen to his feet now and taken a few steps towards the table as he stares incredulously at Fushimi. Is this guy abusing his Pokemon?

Gladio hears his trainer's outburst and immediately trots to Prompto's side, eyes hard and glaring at the other trainer. He knew something was off about this guy. His ears twitch when he hears the Scraggy and suddenly he's splitting his focus between the person who upset his trainer, the Scraggy that shoved the Purrloin and shouting about the cat being a thief, and the Purrloin himself.

Pryna ran over as soon as Misaki left his cup and squeaked in confusion. What was going on?

"Were you trying to steal from us? But -- I thought we were becoming friends. Why would you want to steal from strangers?" It usually took a lot to get Pryna upset, but the normally composed Eevee feels tears come to her eyes. Her trainer was finally out of the house and trying to make a friend and everyone got along so well but all of it was a ruse and now her sweet trainer is upset and Gladio is livid and the others are looking more than a little lost.

Lucy moves to grab Chibi, trying to pull him towards their trainer and calm him down at the same time. Even Fleuret seems somewhat surprised, ears folded back and face impassive as ever.

It's Gladio who spits out the word with a tooth-bearing growl, finally understanding where he recognized those stupid boots and that dumb hat from. 'Rockets."

Oh, this guy really was a bleeding heart. It was almost painful to watch as he starts to freak out over something so basic. Did he not have any idea what training entailed when it came to Pokemon?

"Have you never trained a dog? You put then in their kennel when they're being unruly." Not that Fushimi ever owned a dog but he understood the concept and what you were supposed to do to get it trained properly.

Misaki crosses his arms, looking smug. He was a Rocket loyal through and through, ~~because of the chip~~ because they gave him a new lease on life.

"Cuz that what we do and we good at it, in fact--"

Seri punches him on the head to get him to shut up. No point in antagonizing them. She had no interest in battling the Houndour, especially when it's fur was in such a state.

"It's not as if I had any choice in the matter of having to do this." Fushimi just looked unimpressed as a whole. "I was law enforcement back home then I wake up here with someone shouting in my face for a week that I need to be stealing Pokemon from people or else."

Nekote rests a paw on a hip, ears going back. It'd been his decision that caused this whole mess. He walks over to Prompto, giving his pant leg a little tug to get his attention. He presses his paws together in a thank you motion. He wasn't interested in stealing from someone who gave things this easily.

Fushimi slings his bag back over his shoulder and reaches to grab Pong off Gladio's head. She digs her little feet in and squeaks at him because No, this dog was warm and she liked him.

"Really? Are you that unaware of your surroundings?"

Prompto is confused. Fushimi was law enforcement once but here he's part of Team Rocket (because who else would tell people to steal Pokemon) and he doesn't see any problem with that? Angrily, the blond pulls out his gear and opens the few saved videos he kept, all of Gladio and Pancake. They were progress videos, none of them longer than one minute, and he handed his gear to Fushimi.

"I know how to train Pokemon, and I know how to rehabilitate them after Rockets abuse them. Go ahead, watch those. Look at how far Gladio and Pancake have come since they were rescued." He feels the tug on his pants and offers a last snide remark to Fushimi.

"N' if Gladio wasn't trained well you'd probably be fending him off right now instead of jus' havin' him growl at you."

Trying to soften his expression, Prompto kneels down and offers the apologetic Purrloin a gentle ear scratch. He knows the kitten would have been obeying her trainer, and he's not mad at the Pokemon. "I'm glad I got to spoil you a bit, then, since I doubt he's much of a cuddler. Keep the scarf, okay?"

With a final pat, he stands and looks at Fushimi with an expectant expression on his freckled face.

Pryna's senses came to her when the Frogadier punches Misaki on his head. "Hey! Don't hit him just because he's telling the truth!" She's still upset that they had been planning to steal from them, but she doesn't want to see the Scraggy get his by his companions.

Chibi, however, is less forgiving and yips loudly. "Well you can't be that good at it cuz you didn't steal anythin' from us. You're just a big meanie! Now I'm not gonna apologize for stealin' that treat you -- you jerk!."

Lucy is trying to calm Chibi while looking warily at both Seri and Misaki, hoping neither of them try to start anything physical with themselves or with the others. Fleuret is the only one who's chosen to move towards their trainer's backpack, idly draping her body across the top zipper and doing her best to cover any pockets with her paws and tail. Someone should guard the bag, right?

When Fushimi tries to pry the Natu off of Gladio, the Houndour growls louder and barks angrily. He'd really like to bite that guy, but knows it'll only upset his trainer. The little bird is fine on his head, even if it is a Rocket bird - maybe they can train her out of any Rocket tendencies. Plus Umbra would probably get along great with this oddball. "Pong stays if she wants to stay." His eyes convey the message loud and clear; try to pull her off again and feel his fangs.

Watching his Pokemon, especially Gladio, get more upset by the minute, Prompto sighs and his shoulders droop. The anger wooshes out of him and is replaced with profound irritation and disappointment.

"If you were in law enforcement, why would you let anyone boss you around n' tell you to do somethin' you know is bad?" He casually rolls up his sleeves and lets his barcode show when he crosses his arms loosely across his chest. He's a prime example of not being what you were made to be, or what some people said you should be.

Yeah, no. Fushimi had no interest in watching anything that was a desperate attempt to prove he could do something basic. He just holds the gear in his hand as if he was being madr to hold Prompto's drink for him.

His willingness to put up with this grandstanding was.. well.

"I'm not the least bit afraid of your Houndour. I have the type advantage, for one. But if it bit me it would be more your problem than mine when its taken from you."

Seri wasn't cowed in the least by Gladio or Pryna. She gives Gladio a dangerous look because Pong wasn't their's.

And Nekote, well. He was the biggest scammer of them all but Prompto didn't need to know that. He heads back over to Fushimi, giving him a wink.

"Are.. you serious? You're asking why someone with my experience would remain in a criminal organization? I'm not going to bother explaining."

He looks at Pong.

"Time to ping."

Suddenly Seri blows, a Smoke Screen coming forth to fill the space rapidly to blind. Pong used Teleport, taking the biggest current threat up onto the roof of the cafe. She didn't want to leave Gladio up here but alas. It was ping time.

Fleuret would recieve a Headbutt moments later to knock him aside and Misaki grabs the Pokeball on top before turning to run back towards Fushimi. Through the Smokescreen there were a few brief flashes as the Pokemon not needed were put away before Pong lands on Fushimi's shoulder and--

Teleport.

Fushimi lets out a breath, blinking a few times to clear his eyes. Rocket Headquarters huh?

Misaki tugs at his jacket and holds up the Pokeball.

"Did you steal..? I didn't say take anything, Nekote already decided we weren't going to."

But... Misaki stole a Pokemon! It was what he was supposed to do!!

Fushimi takes the ball, lifting it to offer to Pong only foe the Natu to roll down into his arms, fast asleep.

"...great."

Now he had to figure out how to return this ball. And he'd been waiting for the train.

He's opening his mouth to respond, to ask Fushimi to stop being an ass and just explain what he means, but everything goes to shit.

The smoke appears too fast for him to do anything, and he drops to his knees when he hears the thunk of Fleuret being hit with a Headbutt. Blindly, he reaches for the Eevee he inherited from Ignis and Prompto calls out to the others. "Pryna, Chibi, Lucy, Gladio - on me!"

Three fluffy bodies are soon pressed against various patches of his legs, but he notices a distinct lack of the muscular Houndour's body. Panic sets in and he gathers all four Eevees into his arms and gets a good grip on his bag before moving everyone away from the table. So long as they escape the smoke, he doesn't really care what direction they move in.

Safely out of the smoke, Prompto looks over his bundle of Eevees and smiles weakly when he sees the only injury is Fleuret's forehead - which he immediately moves to treat. That done, his eyes scan for Gladio and the blond cranes his head as he searches, frantically calling the Houndour's name.

"Gladio?! Gladio?! Where are you?" Ignoring the looks from random passers-by Prompto stands on a table and continues looking around, almost sobbing in relief as he spots a confused Gladio on a roof of all places. How the hell did he get up there?

He may not have his pistols here, but his aim is just as good as ever. He grabs the Houndour's Pokeball (the one with a little skull and crossbones sticker on it) and throws it, the curve of the ball allowing it to strike Gladio's left shoulder and ricochet enough that it would land harmlessly in his hand (once he moved from his spot on the table to the predicted landing area).

With Gladio safely on the ground, Prompto quickly re-summons him from his Pokeball and looks him over for injuries. Determining that there weren't any, he hugged the Houndour before letting go so the Eevees could snuggle and nuzzle at him.

Wondering what, if anything, was taken he shakily moves towards his bag and starts rifling through it. The sketchbooks and food are still there, his extra camera accessories and other travel supplies are still there, all his empty Pokeballs are accounted for, and he still has --

Wait.

"N-no. Nonononono. G-guys, I need you all to look around for a Pokeball with a blue spiral sticker on it. P-please?" Tears burn at his eyes when he realizes that Oleander's Pokeball isn't where it should be. He dumps the bag, dropping to his knees and pawing through every single item from every single pocket to no avail.

When he looks towards his current team, he sees apologetic faces as they all shake their heads - none of them found Olly's Pokeball. Pryna immediately leaps into her trainer's arms and nuzzles him, trying her best to console the distraught blond. Lucy isn't far behind her and the rest of the group forms a small circle around their trainer, all of them offering their support. Even Gladio gently butts his head against Prompto's shoulder and allows his head to press solidly against it, as if he's trying to absorb their shaking.

"Guys ... they - he took -- Olly was stolen." He sniffles a little, trying (and failing) to calm down. Taking a deep breath, he starts repacking his bag and whispers, voice filled with resolve.

"We're gonna get him back."

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

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omg this turned out so much angsty-er than i intended

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Figured this might be a good end for Prompto. Sorry if I stole your thread-ender thunder