Welcome to Gaia! ::

<> Trace laughed. It felt like they were acting a bit spoiled to him, but... he shrugged, <> He couldn't deny that! Mildly frowning, the poochyena asked, <> Maybe he could find a scarf or something that Chayyim could use... Trace at least had fur! It was another piece of knowledge that others could stand to learn, really, but it all came down to a matter of whether they were open to such suggestion, as Chayyim was quick to point out, <>

The canine nodded in agreement. While he hadn't been fully aware of how resilient the world had been, having had more pressing matters to focus on over his short life, he could definitely see it now that he had the time to reflect! <> he mused, taking the moment to think a little on that until he realized he was going to get himself lost -- maybe later. <> the poochyena snickered. There weren't many bug-types in town, that was for sure! It seemed Chayy was really adjusting to the thought of living here, though, and that somehow made Trace glad to know. It was his home, after all, and he was more than willing to share!

Trace grinned at the affirmative laugh, feeling as though they were on the same wavelength there. It wasn't very often he found himself under such impression so quickly; it was quite refreshing! <> he tried to explain carefully, <>


There was a hint of a sadistically pleased smirk on the growlithe's face as he successfully cut the nonsensical babbling off with the burmy's own wheeze, paw to his ribs. He wasn't suppose to get distracted from his goal, though, and had to shove the thought back to the forefront of his mind before he continued to torment Chayyim without probable cause, even after the bagworm had attempted to bite and flee.

Trace's confusion about how to deal with a hostage situation, born of an inexperience with the concept on a first-hand basis, left his own mind blank. He froze in his steps when the growlithe had threatened with Chayyim's well-being, but the burmy wasn't going to be mistaken for a pokémon in distress -- he was fighting back with what little he knew of battling. That frightened Trace. The growlithe knew a thing or two about out-of-the-blue brawls, but Chayyim? Well he could think much more logically than his attacker, but cleverness is where his advantage ended. He didn't want to see anything bad happen to the little guy, all because he merely spoke with the poochyena!

The growlithe gave chase, irritatedly trying to catch the burmy again before he reached his destination. He was pretty fast for a grounded insect! Focused and driven, he couldn't have reacted in time to avoid the sudden turn and tackle that came back at him from the shrub of a caterpillar, even when Chayyim hesitated before initiating the counterattack, hitting the fire-type's head as he charged. The most he could have hoped for was to knock the wind out of the bug, maybe bruise something with the collision, but he was edging on furious at this point. This was going all wrong! He had the advantage! He hissed, grappling with a mild case of vertigo, <>

With his mind still scrambling for comprehension, Trace ignored the instruction given to him by his new acquaintance. Chayyim and the streetwise growlithe were only a couple of yards away because of the manner to which the burmy had confused his pursuer, and this gave ample capability to the poochyena to launch his own unpredictable attack. At such a close proximity, Trace feared that Chayy would ony get himself battered -- or worse -- as the one he was grappling with was an unpredictably angry force. He didn't give any warning to the growlithe nor the burmy before he charged. The puppy pokémon's eyes grew wide once he realized this, and in an attempt to keep hold of his trump card, he attempted to grab Chayyim directly before impact... with his teeth.


<> those were always nasty. <> he was actually a bit concerned by this fact though..he hadn't noticed anywhere he could hole up if needed that wasn't ground level.

<> he gave a puzzled shrug unsure of how one wore sand, or even trash. But then he wasn't used to being around either of those things, so it was no wonder the idea was a puzzling one really.

<>

Of course, this all came back to him as he found himself pinned. Bad rap indeed! If this was the sort of pokemon Trace had to deal with regularly he felt bad for him really. He also would have felt bad if he knew his fighting back was frightening to Trace. He was working on instinct as it was though his best wasn't turning out to be good enough it seemed. Still he wasn't about to go down without something of a fight out of himself!

Chayyim shook his head a little to clear the slight daze and the ring of ducklett he swore was sicrling his head after that hit, and he couldn't help a slight smile at seeing the growlithe momentarily paused in his chase. So it was with a bright smile he turned away from the enemy, and turned back towards Trace, intent on getting out of the way entirely as he did so.

Unfortunately he wasn't fast enough. By far. His little legs didn't have the length or speed to clear the growlithe before he was snapping at him and he felt a sudden warmth, a burn. The sound of leaves tearing filled his ears as he cried out suddenly feeling a tooth catch his body. It would seem the growlithe had more luck than the burmy at this point.

However Chayy wasn't still, he was thrashing about a bit, trying to get free of those teeth. Though seeing Trace running at them, he closed his eyes tight and braced himself for a possible impact. He'd handle whatever other injury came his way, so long as this deranged fire dog would go away!


<> Trace laughed. When comforts were a convenience, an established way of life, as opposed to something one would have to fight to earn... well, it was almost like comparing it to a third world country. <> he suggested. He would have mentioned staying with his little gang, but there wasn't always a stable -- or warm -- place for all of them, either. The canine was almost beginning to feel like a sponsor at this rate, but it felt good to offer the support.

Burmy? Huh, he'd never heard of that kind of pokémon, especially the more Chayyim described his kind. <> the poochyena queried; he'd never heard of a pokémon needing the use of clothing before, either! He snickered as the bug-type reevaluated what Trace had complained about with the gossiping and could only nod an affirmative, <> He just didn't want to worry the little guy by going into further detail...

The most nerve-wracking part of Chayyim attempting to fight back against the more battle-experienced growlithe was the fact that the burmy had mentioned needing the practice. He had wanted Trace to teach him basics... but this was much too advanced a course for a novice! Sure, the growlithe wasn't the sharpest tack in the box... but he was still a danger, and anything that had potential to inflict harm shouldn't be taken lightly. One of the rules of Trace's gang was never to underestimate an opponent: overestimation wasn't as deadly.

Chayyim's cry of pain only made Trace grow more focused, more sure of his own decision. Chayyim was in danger of taking more than a bite of damage, and if the poochyena could help it, that wouldn't come to pass. The fire-puppy seemed content with his effort, trying to pull the burmy closer to shield himself if he needed. Trace may not have been the most spry, but he was calculative. <> he growled, careful to miss Chayy upon impact with his rival. If all went according to plan, it would knock off the growlithe's grip on the burmy's leg without too much more damage, but on the fly, he couldn't be absolutely sure. All he had at his disposal was a Tackle and his own wits. He grabbed the orange pup at the ruff of his neck to pull him further away from Chayy, in the hopes that he would refrain from pulling the innocent party into this scuffle any further than he had. However, the taste of blood in the fire-type's mouth was enough to spark the adrenaline for combat, it seemed -- he wasn't going down without a fight!


<> Chayy was chuckling softly though. He'd make due, he always did. Even if he did end up a bug-cicle once in awhile. It was just how it was really. <> well he didn't want to put the poochyena out after all.

<> and a fairly effective one. Usually.

Of course he needed the practice. Chayy was a run-and-hide sort of bug. Not a fight for whatever sort of bug. Flight over fight was the usual answer to his survival. So why had he fought back this time? He wasn't entirely sure, other than he felt guilty about Trace being dragged into something, and all because it involved him! If he hadn't been here, well Trace couldn't have been suckered into this mess.

That was only part of the reason. Chayy hadn't thought before he acted. He wanted to help the other, and this was the only way he knew of despite the considerable size difference. Chayy was thinking with his heart and not with his head.

Which was why he was now hanging from the puppy pokemon's teeth, and sort of drooped over upside down in a daze watching Trace run towards then looking like he was upside down...how weird. If he'd known he was being turned into a living shield he might have laughed. What good would a bug his size do for the growlithe?

He felt the growlithe's body shift with the impact of Trace's hit, heard the growls, and suddenly he was falling and bouncing on the ground. He looked up with blurred eyes and saw Trace pulling the growlithe away and he couldn't help but admire his new friends strength and bravery. He wished he could be strong!

He shook his head a moment to clear away the fog and got to his feet, favoring one leg due to the bite and looking down with a wince. Oh that hurt! He wanted to help Trace, but maybe he'd be more help if he wasn't so easily gotten to. Maybe hiding in the bushes? But...that was cowardly and he didn't want to be seen as a coward. So he took a step forward...and promptly fell due to his leg refusing to hold his weight.

There was a low grumble from him, and he pulled himself back up, and sucked in a deep breath, lips pressing together tightly as he made towards the pair. He really only wanted to help!


While trees didn't sound like the warmest of places to stay, Trace supposed the burmy was used to using the knotholes as a hideaway for the Winter while out in the forest. Something similar, huh? <> he thought aloud, glancing around at the clutter of a city street. Turning back to Chayyim, he gave a smile in reassurance, <> Of course he was going to go out and search if nothing presented itself in a timely manner... he didn't want the little guy to freeze!

Ahh, camouflage... funny, that's what Arashi had called his clothing. He supposed it was a fitting description, on both accounts! <> he offered a sheepish grin. All he and his gang had to worry about was other gangs kicking them out, or trainers... not being a potential meal for another pokémon! <> he mused. It was an interesting idea to consider!

It was almost funny to think how the night had originally begun. It had been mellow for Trace, but Chayyim found himself out of the frying pan and into the fryer, so to speak. Nobody was going to turn that burner on if Trace could help it, and he was momentarily relieved to note that his plan of knocking the burmy loose of the growlithe's maw went off without a hitch. Sure, he was worried that the bug type might hit his head on the ground, but that seemed to be a minor issue than the situation at hand, if only because it wasn't too far down from the fire-puppy's height.

Trace continued to try to drag his thrashing opponent away, but there were no great strides made in the effort. He wasn't the strongest of streetside pokémon, and the lack of the growlithe's sitting still was beginning to wear on his jaw. If only he'd had learned his species' trademark attack, then biting would have been so much easier... He saw Chayyim stumble but, although worried to the burmy's intentions of continuing with his relentless aid despite no proper training in the field, the poochyena kept his focus on holding the growlithe at bay. Hey, maybe tag-teaming wasn't so bad of an idea... but then, Chayyim was also injured, and Trace didn't want to risk furthering it.

However, the squirming became too much in a sudden twisting action, and before he could react proper, Trace had dropped his hold on the attacker. The growlithe was quick to his feet, though unsure of who his target should be in such close quarters. He even briefly considered high-tailing it... but in that moment of hesitation, Trace took initiative, for fear of who the fire-type may choose. Unfortunately, because of the attack being driven by counterreaction, a reflex, he hadn't considered the direction. The dark-type canine tackled the fire-type, but in grappling with him, sent the both of them nearer to Chayyim than he would have otherwise planned to do. <> he hissed through exertion. The growlithe was swinging blindly, and Trace was frightened those dulled claws may rake the burmy before he could get the limbs pinned.


<> he should have been working on storing food for winter at this point, but he wasn't about to bring that up. One issue at a time. First a place to store the food, then the food that would need laid by for the cold season. He gave a bright smile to his new friend and a little bob of his body. <>

<> though he was wondering the merits of the plant coverage compared to a more urban one. Still, he was staying here in the park so it was probably best to stick to the greenery for the time being.>> he nodded his head and grinned. He'd seen a few various bugs, but then he knew what to look for. <> small helped at times!

If the worse thing to come of this entire situation was Chayyim hitting his head on the ground upon falling loose from the Growlithes mouth, then it would have been a wonderful night indeed. Fortunately, or maybe unfortunately there was no head hitting happening, and he landed unharmed save for where he'd been bitten more than anything.

Chayyim watched with a mixture of awe and horror really watching Trace fighting with the puppy pokemon. He didn't want to see his friend hurt...and he almost listened. Almost started to run off...but they tumbled to a stop a little too close to him for him to run. He swore the Growlithe's tail swiped over him at one point! He reacted the only way he could with another bug bite, aiming for anywhere on his friends opponent. Anything to help. If only he could be sure he was going to be a help, not a hinderance!


Trace could identify the issues and recognized the urgency to find a fitting place for the Winter. He could tell that Chayyim was downplaying it as well, knowing full well how unpleasant, even deadly, the bite of the cold season could be. However, if the burmy was going to play it off that way, Trace could as well... at least in public. There was no way he was going to beat around the bush if things looked bleak in that respect, once time drew shorter, but for now it seemed relatively safe, locked in the heat of the Summer. A grin was offered; he was deceivingly good at making light of a situation himself, <>

It was a bit amusing, to consider how apt the term 'camouflage' was to both the leafy coat as well as human clothing on a pokémon. Both were made to masquerade as something other than what they were, were they not? Trace laughed at that, but nodded to indicate that he agreed, <> The nose was another thing, but it wasn't so well trained on the scent of an insect -- Chayyim's own scent felt very unfamiliar, masked by the foliage that surrounded his body, but he took note of it.

The squirming and wiggling the growlithe managed to accomplish, flailing his tensed paws every which way, was a difficult one to hold down. Trace kept trying to snag one of the fire-type's legs to keep it from moving so much, least of all in Chayy's direction, but he was moving too frequently, driven by too much adrenaline and panicked anger. Trace's attention was having a difficult time splitting between the burmy's current position and keeping the growlithe's limbs from hitting anything damaging. He swatted and dodged, keeping most of the upper hand to himself, but in his insistence that Chayyim find some place more secure, his attention left the burmy's stead. He didn't see when Chayy took a dive at the growlithe's tail in heightened reaction.

Neither did the growlithe, but he sure FELT it! With a yelp as the burmy's beak-like mouth bit down on his tail, he thrashed upward, as though to sit upright and swat the burmy off. He managed a few swings at Chayyim with his back legs once he realized his normal route to his tail was blocked, rather completely, as soon as his claws hit Trace and found themselves impeded. The poochyena yelped, but muffled it with a grab at the growlithe's flailing limb, latching on so no further damage could be done. He growled instead, wrenching the paw in its rightful direction. Unfortunately, with how he was standing, Trace couldn't pull his captive further away from Chayy, so tried to swat at the burmy himself with his own tail, as though reminding him that he needed to get away from their attacker.

It was about that time that the growlithe truly looked fearful, pinned on both sides and staring at the harm he had caused -- that he had never intended to cause -- to both parties. <> he yelped, rigid. He wasn't entirely sure he was going to make it out of this, as there was a lot to answer for and precious little he could offer in compensation. Pride squandered most of the valuables anyway.

If Chayyim were to realize how clever his new friend was, he would have laughed. Most he'd met weren't well versed on subtlty and didn't tend to pick up on downplayed issues. Though for his part he'd also never met anyone who could down play an issue as well as Trace was. Well enough to have the bagworm thinking that it was good Trace wasn't making a huge deal over it. It was something that could be worried about later, not this exact second. In time they would probably come to learn to be a little more open and a little less aloof with concerns like this. <> very! He was smiling broadly at this, definitely pleased by this turn of events.

Chayy had never seen a poke-human even while here in the city but then he wasn't paying close attention. However if he'd met Arashi and they'd gotten to talking he would have been amused at the whole camoflauge thing. <> and very, very easy to hurt. Or worse.

The concern for him would have been called nice, if he was aware of the depth of it, though at the moment he felt that out of the two of them, the poochyena had the more dangerous position, and so was just as worried about him getting hurt, as Trace was about him getting hurt.

A surge of satisfaction welled up as he managed to clamp down on that tail, and he held on for all he was worth which while not much, was still fierce. His grip loosened a bit without his consent as he heard Trace's muffled yelp, worry washing over him and causing him to want to ask if he was okay. His friends tail brushing over him along with a well timed surrender had him letting go and dropping back to the ground....and then decided to get away from the situation while it was mellow.

So Chayy began to make his way to the bushes then, aiming for the safety of the greens while the Growlithe turned tail and ran. He wasn't moving as fast as he normally would have though with his leg injury. No...he was moving much too slow.


Trace was almost a stark contrast to Arashi's own conversation tactics, the 'leader' of the troupe being that much less eloquent to subtleties. Due to this, Trace was actually a bit glad the eevee wasn't here at the moment, all things considered. Would he have been able to strike up this friendship if he had not been alone? Well it didn't seem like the burmy was quite as skitterish as he may have seemed at first, so such nitpicking didn't seem up to par. <> the poochyena snickered, not seeing any difficulty in such an endeavor in Chayyim's future if he kept it up.

The burmy made good points as to why camouflage was necessary. Although Trace didn't doubt the severity of the need, as it seemed to be something ingrained into the burmy's instincts by habit, it was still an interesting prospect to consider, to ponder about. It was interesting to see things from a perspective not so easily inherited, for the poochyena could only gather second-hand knowledge of what it was like to be a bug-type in this unpredictable world. <> he noted, <>

While Trace was aware that Chayyim was worried, he was also unaware of the extent of it, or what direction such caution was leading. For all the poochyena knew it could have been territorial instinct, which for all intents and purposes could have actually aided. Even if it wasn't, the burmy's actions were fierce enough to have easily been grouped together with such counterattacks, for even when a pokémon was not considerably leveled, desperation could work as a supercharge. However, attempting to protect someone could work in such a favor as well, something that Trace had grown quite familiar with, even if it didn't tend to be with newly-met acquaintances. Then again, friendship was not a term that tended to be used lightly.

As the growlithe released his hold on relentless attack, Trace cautiously released his bite, making sure to determine where Chayyim was before he had. Good, he was retreating a distance... He opened his jaw, and the fire-type carefully pulled away, tail between his legs as though to prevent it from getting bitten again and scooting further back. He cringed slightly as Chayyim hobbled on his bitten leg. Glancing briefly down, the growlithe noticed the blood, not all of it his own; he would have paled if his fur was not so thickly masking it. <> he apologized, nearly chanting it as he made his own retreat. He could already tell that negative repercussions were assured, and feared for the extent of them.

Of course, Trace found the reaction a bit baffling. Why apologize? Turf wars always had the chance of escalating into a scuffle, but... was it because of the hostage thing? That was a rarity... maybe that was it, bringing innocents into a confrontation that had nothing to do with them. The damage caused didn't seem to be the first option on his mind, nor was it fully registering. <> the poochyena observed, <> Woah... woozy, must have been the excitement, so he sat himself down, <>


It was probably a good thing Trace was alone, because if Arashi had been there as well, the two might not have stuck around for Trace and Chayyim to strike up their conversation as they had. It could have changed the entire course of events for the night if there'd been three of them back in that alley. <> he was laughing at himself, at the luck. It had started off as bad luck but progressed into good luck as far as he was concerned. He'd met Trace after all! <> if any of that made sense!

<


<> the canine laughed sheepishly; what a way for a city to make an impression on a pokémon... Shaking his head, Trace could grasp what the little burmy was trying to explain without too much effort, <> It was a joking jab, though; he knew when to cut to the chase, and when actions spoke louder. Arashi didn't like long conversations, so he quickly got used to dealing with individuals like that.

The poochyena gave a nod, fully agreeing with the explanation of what was meant by the use of the term 'tactical.' <> he explained, grinning near the end. There was nothing wrong about using your brain more in an encounter!

However, it wasn't lost on the poochyena as to what Chayyim had meant when he referenced that logistics weren't always enough to avoid a bad confrontation. It was difficult to reason with an individual who blocked out rational thought, blinded by his own desires, as the growlithe had been moments before his escape. It was disheartening, to be proven so wrong before he had a chance to show the truthfulness... but he had the suspicions that the burmy would be able to see that things weren't always this bad. Well, he hoped so, at least.

The electricity still coursing through Trace's veins attributed to a lot of his misunderstanding to the extent of the aftermath. His dizziness was correlated with the fact that he was pretty much physically numb, but thought progress down that path did not extend any further. His concerns were more focused to the burmy he had been trying to -- and failed -- to protect from the nonsensical onslaught of violence. He peered down at Chayy, now resting against the poochyena, to get a better look at the indicated leg marked by teeth scores. Trace could smell blood... and when the burmy had noted that it hurt worse in the back of the leg, he nudged the bug, <>

He flinched slightly at the burmy's question as to Trace's condition, and his thoughts started redirecting themselves to respond. He didn't like what he was discovering. His furthest forepaw from Chayyim's position began prodding about in examination, but he was fairly sure he had found the worst of the injuries merely by being asked to clarify. <> the poochyena hissed under his breath, by this time only half-listening to what the burmy moved the conversation to; he was going to have to get out of here before the adrenaline wore off and pain receptors were back in full force... and before Chayyim caught on. <> the words fell quickly, and were almost difficult to comprehend as he scrambled for an explanation, <> Ugh, he really hoped he wasn't sounding as fake as he felt. He liked Chayyim! He just... didn't want him to see Trace in this sort of condition, not now.


It was true, he'd managed to make a new friend within days of showing up in the city, so that was a good thing as far as he was concerned really. It had happened quicker and better than he could have hoped at this point. <> well good until this point, but he had no reason to think the night would end any other way than the way it was headed at this point. <> it was sort of weird, but nice!

<> it was as far as he was concerned and it left him smiling broadly at the idea that a sneaky advantage was better than a show of force. It was sort of a relief to know he wasn't somehow odd for his preferred method of things in the end.

The nudge had Chayy looking up at Trace and he shook his head. <> not from what he could see. <> better than going to his little home all bloody.

He wondered how much blood on the ground belonged to each of them. It was pretty bad and he wasn't going to delude himself into thinking they'd all gotten off without an injury. There was too much red splashed around for that!

The hiss from the bite pokemon had him looking up in concern. What was wrong!? Then the explanation hit him, and he got up so he wasn't leaning on the other, chagrin washing through him. Oh, he was keeping Trace from things...that wasn't good. He felt bad about his friend getting drawn into this whole situation and he in part was starting to blame himself. If he hadn't gotten caught, the fight wouldn't have happened, and now he wouldn't be late for this politics thing.

<> he wasn't detecting any fakeness to Trace's words though he did sound odd, though he was going to attribute this to the other being worried about being late..and any injuries.

<> a sheepish sort of note to his words as he finally moved a few steps away from Trace and gave a little wave. <> words soft, and a bit worried. It was a good thing the poochyena's fur was so dark and that the shadows hid the damage or Chayy might have panicked. Instead he was feeling guilt. Hopefully this politics thing wasn't terribly important!


Trace had no reason not to agree with the enthusiastic burmy, and displayed that agreement with a sharp nod. It wasn't very often that the poochyena was able to gather the right circumstances to meet someone else like this, even rarer when it was someone who began and ended both on good terms. He may not have been as quick to show it, but he was immensely relieved and excited both that it had turned out this way! <> he snickered. Chayyim really was an interesting fellow, and his reactions seemed to be difficult to gauge, but that may have been solely because the burmy had since warmed up from whence they first met -- that was sure to be a bit of a change of demeanor for such a shy little bug!

The poochyena was normally quite level-headed in a situation that some may panic in. This situation may have been no different, but he was beginning to wonder if he was losing his grasp on such collectedness when he thought of the repercussions down the line. No, no, he needed to stay focused on now... not then. He half-hoped all that blood was from the growlithe, or heck even Trace... though the former would have been much preferred, in all honesty. <> he instructed. The canine was only now realizing how impaired his night vision had gotten, likely through the scuffle, probably caused by the dizziness... and the blood. At least on the left. He hadn't even noticed the blood at all until it was pointed out! That was... severely disconcerting, to say the least; it couldn't have meant anything good.

It was out of an effort to keep Chayyim from blaming himself for anything that had occurred tonight that Trace found himself lying about the situation, about the gravity of it. While it was backfiring to a degree that could not be countered, it was all Trace could do to keep the least amount of it felt through the burmy as possible and mask what he could for the time being. He could explain it better when he was more coherent, but for now, the urgency called for more drastic and quick-cut conversation tactics. If he knew what it was that Chayy was most concerned about at the moment, he may have been able to offer some quick comfort, but he was more preoccupied not to hint at damage. Chayy just seemed the type to take things more personal, in that respect... and that was the last thing Trace wanted.

Taking note of the bush that was pointed out, the canine managed a sincere grin, <> And preferrably NOT bring company along... <> the grey-coated pokémon laughed, an attempt to lighten the mood. Don't leave it on a sour note... He bounded back up, focusing on keeping his paces straight, <> A play on words, but it seemed fitting enough.

Chayy:
"There really is! It's easier to see you when talking to you." he was smiling, a teasing look really! It hadn't bothered him to talk to Trace when he was so much smaller, but this was certainly easier! There was a laugh then and he shook his head. "I don't know Trace, you're still bigger than me. I think you'll always be that way!" it wouldn't surprise him if this was the case honestly.

Chayy straightened himself back up quickly...or as straightened as one could get with much too large second hand goods and all. Still he was back in some semblance of order and all in a few heart beats, even after righting himself from the slight jostling. Trace was obviously a lot stronger than him he realized!

The question though made him shake his head. "No, I could see you and everything else just fine before...but after I woke up like this, I couldn't see anything. Just blurs and smudges of colors. I don't really like not being able to see." of course not!

"That is silly...I don't see humans going around with tails...or ears...or even leaves!" he shook his head in some disbelief of their ignorance though he couldn't help but smile. "You wouldn't have known where I was to break me out of anywhere, anyhow." which would have been bad!

"It's okay Trace, no need to be sorry. You didn't know how I felt and asked, and now you know! Only thing that would have been foolish was not asking." Chayy gave the other a warm smile as he said that, patting his arm lightly as he spoke. He really was quite mild mannered!

His brows furrowed in confusion at Trace's next words, trying to make some sense of them. "I think technically it is the fault of that fire dog that attacked us, but if you wish it to be my fault then alright." there was a slight nod, he still looking puzzled, but shouldering the blame for his injury, still wondering what Trace was getting at. How was this all related to those bandages?

Arashi's insistence of changing the subject was met with an impatient noise, and he turned to the eevee boy and his hand came down in a sharp chopping motion. "Ferma! Basta essere tranquillo un momento!" The Italian was sharp and full of authority the buggy boy usually didn't attempt to exhibit. But telling Arashi to stop, and be quiet for a moment, well he was distracting Chayyim, and he felt he needed to concentrate on what Trace was trying to tell him. "Ragazzo impaziente...." the words were muttered to himself a moment, and he turned away from said impatient boy, to look to Trace once more.

He did feel guilty though for talking to Arashi that way! "Mi dispiace.. err I'm sorry. I shouldn't have spoken to you that way. You're just trying to be helpful, I shouldn't have spoken like that." oh of course not! He scuffed his foot a little on the ground in sheepishness.

"Ah..si...yes...lots of stinky diapers. Human children as smelly creatures." His tone was rather contrite now after apologizing to Arashi. Still he looked to Trace when he was hugged back and momentarily rested his forehead on the others shoulder. "You do not have to tell me why you have the bandage. You're hurt I can tell. Or were and are healing...but I can see it bothers you to talk of it, and I don't want you uncomfortable around me okay? It’s done, it happened...you are here, and I am here, and your friend is here and it is all good now."

He pulled away and looked up the short distance to Trace and smiled. "You both say something about food being that way yes? Let’s find food, I haven't eaten much in a few days, and I could use some food." blatantly changing the subject...but it seemed best for his friend.

Trace & Arashi:
"I know, I know... had my head up in the clouds before, didn't I?" the poochyena laughed, more than happy to see Chayyim begin playing his hand at a more taunting role. He actually kind of preferred the lesser distance between the both of them, whichever way it ended up falling. While he wasn't the best at measurement, he could see that the height difference was probably similar to that that was apparent when they were both fully pokémon, "It's possible, yeah... I'm not exactly sure how growth works, to be perfectly honest. Do we grow more like the humans now, or like we always have?" Arashi hadn't seemed to have grown at all since he had changed, but then he was probably a poor example.

Trace held back the urge to fiddle with the glasses in his curiosity, uncertain as to why the fundamentals of Chayyim's eyesight altered so much. "That's really weird... I'm not sure why transforming did that to your eyesight! Maybe it had to compensate for something else, and took the energy from where it didn't think it was as necessary? I'm not sure why it would have chosen sight, if that were the case, though..." he studied the different angles aloud, but was not satisfied with the reasoning he had come up with. He did, however, find it a little amusing that sight had been affected by both of them, even if they were severely different manners altogether.

There was only one thing that Trace could perhaps consider as to why the mix-up between their kind and the humans even happened, and it was not a very satisfying one. "Umm... fashion statement, maybe? I don't know, I don't really get it, either. Maybe it's just because we're more unlike pokémon now than we are unlike humans?" he was, again, merely grasping at straws, "Well... for the most part. I really don't know. Maybe we just disturb them or something." He offered a shrug, content enough in his lack of a proper answer for now. Maybe one day, they would be able to figure it out. Thinking on the idea of breaking Chayy out of their equivalency to prison, he had to admit the burmy made a good point, "That's... true. Or know that you were even captured in the first place." Well, back to the main point: it was good that the burmy had eluded capture!

"It's true, I wouldn't have known otherwise without asking, but Chayy... you're not exactly the type to get angry, not easily. At least that is what I've been able to gather so far," he pointed out with a nervous chuckle. Ugh, this was all so aggravating. There was no reason to be, but the more this went on, the more nervous Trace was becoming. There was no way to put this delicately, but what exactly was it that he was so afraid of? Chayy wouldn't get mad, but... maybe he was fearing the comfort. That was it, he just needed to play it off more nonchalantly. The reactions he was already receiving, though... "N-No, no, that's not what I meant. It was his fault too, sure, but... the reason it happened was partly because you had stayed behind, you see?" his words were strained in his effort to attempt explaining with a more calm mind, but it seemed such efforts were widely in vain.

Arashi couldn't keep the bristling tail at bay any further. The atmosphere alone was making him unbearably cranky, but the tone that Chayyim used was enough to ignite his checked temperament, irregardless of the fact that he had no idea what the heck he was just told. "It was the same night! Nothing else happened after that, you dolt!" he snapped. His seething words were contracted from numerous sources, but in the heat of the moment it was difficult to tell. He barely caught the offered apology, if only because he wanted the burmy-boy to understand.
Trace's ears flattened against his head, "Arashi, we'll meet you down the street, okay? I can handle this." The poochyena's voice was more controlled, but the sharp gaze he offered to the eevee pinpointed much more negative energy. Arashi growled, waving a hand in harsh dismissal before he took off. Attention turning back to Chayy, his expression quickly dissolved into something more apologetic. That sort of argument... he wished that hadn't happened, so soon and with Chayyim around to play a part in it. This was supposed to be a happy time...

His ears were still folded back, but their posture had shifted reactions. No longer was it out of rage, but remorse. "I'm fine, really," he insisted, "I already told myself I was going to tell you, so it might as well be now. Get that block out of the road sooner than later, right?" His speech patterns were attempting to brighten Chayyim's mood, but he was unsure if it was a lost cause at this point. Trace's own hands were shaking slightly, so he removed them from Chayyim's immediate person but hovered them close by; he was not pulling away this time. "I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable, or put on the spot with the comment about the leg. It's how I view getting injuries, or making decisions that might result in things like that happening, at least to myself," he began. His gaze averted temporarily, for he didn't truly believe any of it was Chayyim's fault at all. Not the leg injury, not the scuffle, not the eye injury...

Again he tugged at the bandages with a single hand, more a nervous habit than truly indicating it, "Injuries like this, they're common for the way I live life. It was my fault I got that close, and didn't have as good of a grip on his leg to prevent it from happening..." He was paling a bit, but he didn't let it break his concentration. "Just need to make sure I don't lose the other eye while I'm at it, huh?" his laugh was convincing, but Trace was scared. Very, very scared.

Once Chayy pulled away, Trace was quick to pull his hands into his pockets. He hated this sort of emotion, and he didn't want it to get the better of him, especially when it was so irritatingly obvious for humans. "If you're sure. We'll get some food once we're done. We've got the time alone at the moment..." the boy assured, intent to make sure everything was okay first. As an afterthought, he quickly piped up, "And... I'm sure Arashi doesn't feel any ill will towards you. He's had it a bit rough, and these sorts of situations kind of rub him wrong." It wasn't a secret that he hated long conversations, but Trace knew there was more to it.

Chayy:
"Compared to me, yes you did." there was a laugh from Chayy as he said that, amusement clear on his face. "Well..it's odd...we look like people with pokemon features on them. So I don't know about how we grow. I'm so much bigger now than I would have ever been."

Chayy gave a shrug then when it came to his eyesight, or more like the lack of it. "I don't know why it happened either. Maybe I didn't see as clearly as I thought I did before and it's just worse now. Or eye sight could be different. It's strange but at least something can be done about it for me."

"It could be we disturb them, I couldn't say I'm not used to dealing with people after all. I think you two are more experienced there yeah?" he nodded his head emphatically. "Exactly! You and I might not have ever found one another again if I'd been caught so best I was not."

Chayyim was beyond confused at this whole line of things, and it was written clear as day. Why did Trace keep giving generalities? Why wasn't he just getting to the point? It was Arashi's tone that made him back up a few steps as if he'd been physically struck and he flinched even, unable to help himself. The other boy seemed so angry at him and it was his own fault he knew, he'd snapped first. If he had some appendage that could droop it would have at that moment.

Instead in the moment Trace was talking to Arashi he'd turned away from the other one arm crossed over his chest and wrapped over the upper portion of the opposite arm, the other arm hanging limply the sleeves of both covering his fingers. He was staring off down the alley unseeingly for a few moments, letting the pair talk while he opted to tune them out. He'd really stuck his foot into the caca this time hadn't he?

Trace was talking to him his mind supplied and he half turned back towards the other, though he didn't close the distance between them at this point. "My leg is unimportant Trace its okay, both physically and in the metaphorical sense. Don't feel you need to apologize for bringing it up." of course not. He was scarred but okay. "I'm sorry I made your friend mad by being impatient. I didn't mean to be, I was just trying to focus on what you were saying and couldn't because he was distracting me."

Maybe it was a bad idea to go with them. It was what he'd been preparing to say, after all how could he go with two people one of which seemingly really didn't like him, when Trace's words hit home causing his hand to fall from his arm and he to take a step forward. He didn't know what to say...what to do. His eyes were wide behind broken lenses though.

Being told Arashi didn't feel badly towards him was a relief, and it did bring a smile to his face. "I'm glad...means I don't have to figure out an excuse as to why I can't go with you...because well I'm not about to make a pest of myself to someone who didn't like me." well it made sense!

Finally he couldn't avoid responding to the cause of Trace's discomfort and he merely smiled. "One eye or two, you're still you, and still amazing as far as I'm concerned. But yes, need to make sure you don't lose the other one too. How healed is it? I wish I had read books on medicine and stuff so I could be more helpful." and here he frowned. "I wonder if I could find some..." how thoughtful the boy sounded! "The bandages make you look dashing and daring just so you know." and here he beamed at his friend. "Thank you for telling me Trace!" and here he went hugging again with a sheepish laugh. "Sorry...I'm just really happy to see you again!"

Trace & Arashi:
It was such a relief to see Chayy having enough of a good time to be joking around in the manner that he was, just as it would have likely been the same relief to see Trace acting similarly. Growing into such an unnatural form certainly came with more than its fair share of limitations and stresses in such a short period of time, but reuniting with a friend under comparative circumstances eased the weight of it all. That spark of familiar personality traits was evident once more, "Oh well, only time is going to tell. No use worrying about it now. Besides, we've got quite the view now. It's nice to be able to see so much further in any direction now! It's kind of weird, how much of a change that is, with only a few feet added to height." Weird indeed, he was even still getting used to balancing on a mere two feet, as opposed to four!

While not altogether worried about the regressed sight that Chayy had experienced upon transformation, it was nonetheless an irritating turn of events. It was really lucky he had discovered a working pair of glasses so soon after! "I wonder if finding the glasses was the plan of the one that left the star? That would be some foresight on it, though," he offered, finding it... probably even more far-fetched than any other idea he'd had thus far. Really weird, but lucky nonetheless! Trace snickered at that, "All things considered, you're a pretty lucky guy, I think!" Despite the bad that had happened, everything seemed to be turning out all right, all things considered.

The poochyena-boy shrugged at the thought of what ran through the heads of the humans, but he couldn't deny the fact that he probably still knew a little more about them than the average wild pokémon. "I suppose, but I don't think it's too much more than you know. Guess we'll have to learn about that part together. That doesn't seem so bad, maybe it'll actually be easy!" he grinned. "But I think I would have noticed you had gone missing sooner or later. Maybe I could have pieced everything together... though that would still likely have been a while! I'm glad you're safe. You should be able to stay that way now," the finality in the statement showed his assurance of the fact; he didn't think he, nor Arashi, would let anything bad happen to one of their own, if they could help it!

Throughout the argument Arashi and Trace had, the distraction of the discussion left a lot of what went on around them out of mind. Trace knew that Chayy had receded during it and felt badly for it, but outside of a general suspicion, didn't know the extent. It was only because they knew one another so well that the arguments never went further than a bit of irrationality and irritation; it wasn't exactly a rare occurrence, but it was by no means common, either. Expressions of emotion tended to stay checked, behind civil debate, but this was spurred by more than the norm: severe anger and fear. Gang wars were part of life, sure, but this time it had gone too far by trying to snuff out opposition and an innocent bystander. Arashi was more than enraged by it, and speaking of it was not lessening that rage's hold on him. He should have been there! What sort of leader was he!?

Trace's ears were still pressed back as Chayy spoke. His eyes watched the leg as it was spoken of, taking note that it didn't seem to be bothering the burmy-boy as much as it could have if it was still injured, and he seemed to be able to put his weight on it well enough... so there was no sense in arguing the truth in Chayy's assurance. Trace have a swift nod to indicate that much, but shook his head when Arashi was brought up, "He can be impatient, too. He doesn't let something that small get him too worked up, he's just got too many things on his mind. He just... didn't like what happened, that's all. Arashi's more the 'take charge' sort of person, not the... 'let's talk about it' sort of person." The poochyena snickered slightly at that, considering both Chayy and Trace both seemed to be the polar opposite of Arashi, in that sense.

He hesitated momentarily at Chayyim's initial reaction to the words that left his mouth in his attempt to nonchalantly explain what had happened to him. His laugh was stifled and tapered off, but he tried to play it off as best he could anyway. The concern in the burmy's eyes was enough to cause Trace's sight to drift to the side, nearly taking a step back to counter Chayy's step forward. There was an expectation that the conversation was going to be headed exactly towards the direction Trace had been avoiding, and his mind scrambled for a way to prevent it from happening. What could he say, that wouldn't end up possibly being misconstrued as an effort to push the burmy away altogether? He didn't want that, he just couldn't handle the concern!

Luckily, he had no need to grapple for words that didn't seem to want to cooperate. His attention quickly flicked back to Chayy, "Excuse to leave? No no, Chayy, there'd never be a time you'd have to do something like that. I don't think there's any good reason someone could have for disliking you!" He shook his head in emphasis, "Look, I'm sure any concerns you might still have can be cleared up once we catch up with him. Arashi argues, it's just what he's good at. You'll get the hang of dealing with him easily enough in time, I'm sure of it."

He flinched slightly when conversation wrapped its way back around to the point he feared... only it was not what he had been expecting. Trace blinked at Chayy's take on the missing eye, stunned for a moment before a dusting of red found its way across his face, "Heh... thanks, Chayy, I'm glad to hear that!" He was also at a loss for words on the compliment; it was something so far outside of his expectations that he hadn't planned for it at all! His grin was no longer tentative to the situation, coming much easier, "You're really great, you know that?" He rubbed at the bandage again without really thinking about it, a reactionary move, "No, unfortunately I don't think much can be done... The star that I found, that changed me, it pretty much healed it up. Apparently it can't really bring back what was already missing beforehand. It's actually... kind of interesting, if you think about it. I can help you try to get some books on medicine, though; maybe we could both read it and make sure this sort of thing doesn't happen again, to anyone." He was being very serious about it, but his smile could have fooled.

He caught Chayy's hug, comforted by the fact that that seemed to mean that there was less tenseness in the air. "Of course I would have told you, I just wasn't sure if it would ruin the mood if I told you now or not..." he admitted meekly. Trace offered a squeeze in return, "You don't have to apologize. Heh, I'll get used to it!" This sort of comfort... it was actually pretty nice.

Chayy:
“Well you see better now…me not so much but it’s okay.” He chuckled softly and shrugged a little at his poor joke. He was merely trying to keep the situation from growing too tense at this point.

“Maybe, but if they wanted me to find them they shouldn’t have been half buried like they were. I’m just lucky I found them at all or I’d still be wandering blindly.” Which would have been very, very bad really.

That Trace was adamant about the fact that he would have noticed his disappearance…eventually…and that he would be safe from here on out was reassuring honestly. He knew his friend knew the streets and so much better than he himself did. So it was no wonder he felt as safe as he did at the idea of relying on the other. It was only smart thinking!

He was more than a little glad that Trace chose not to argue about his leg in any way it wouldn’t do either of them any good. It was done and past and healed up remarkably well he knew. Chayy grew more relaxed at the further assurances that it was okay between the bug and Eevee and he let the tense hold of his shoulders relax. That was good. Trace wouldn’t be put into a tough spot due to him then! “Good! I’m very glad to hear. Still, I will apologize again, and hope in time we don’t argue. Sounds like I might lose often if I do.”

Chayy reached out and of all things he brushed a lock of Trace’s hair that seemed determined to go under the bandages. Was one loose? He studied it closely a moment. “I think it might be a little loose…want me to tighten it a little so your hair doesn’t try slipping under it again or something?” simple concern about that. “Maybe we can find you something less than bandages for your eye…a patch…like what pirates wear.” He smiled warmly at the other nodding. “I would like to help if I’m going to be around. I want to do something in thanks.” And learning medicine seemed the best bet with this motly crew!

“You’re my friend, and I’d like to think nothing will change this. I can’t begin to put words to how angry I am at the fire dog for doing this to you but I’m very glad you’re healed up. We should catch up to your friend and let him know everything is in the open and I know about the eye loss. I think it will make things so much easier for everyone when no one is dancing around it.” It made plenty of sense to him!

Trace & Arashi:
It was true, Trace had a difficult time imagining what it would be like to suddenly be able to see nothing but a blur of the world around him, and took a brief glance around the alley in order to gauge the imagination toward the matter. He didn't understand why fate decided to deal Chayyim such a cruel hand when there had been no problem before, but he also knew there was no use dwelling on it -- especially since it seemed the problem was solved for now. "Yeah, we should try to figure out how we can get you a better pair of those," the poochyena-boy commented, noting the split in one of the lenses. He was oblivious to prescriptions and price tags of the instruments, however, so such idealism was further out of his reach at the moment than he had any current idea of. Regardless, the one pair of glasses that Trace had ever seen up close before, and Chayy happened to stumble across them after he had grown, it was luck no matter how he looked at it!

Trace's own tenseness over the initial aspects of this encounter were quickly washed away the more he observed the burmy-boy's own reactions. He found it kind of silly, in fact, that the both of them reacted in such a way at all. For one, they hardly really knew one another, so why put so much weight into what the other thought? Of course, that in itself was a silly thought as well, for he knew the answer... it was difficult, in this world, to find someone that struck the chord of 'friend' with such little effort, and in so short a time, but that was also why it shouldn't have been an issue. The gradual ease he was seeing, that knowledge was verified quite completely. "I'll help you out with Arashi, but seriously, I don't see it being a problem. I don't think you lost in that argument, in any case; you held your own," he assured. In fact, he was fairly certain that Arashi actually liked Chayyim already, but he didn't want to assume that was the case.

There was a brief moment when Chayy reached toward Trace's bandages where he nearly retreated quickly away. He didn't want them removed, and he didn't want to be comforted, but he held his ground out of curiosity for what the burmy was trying to do. The lock of hair tickled his jaw a bit when it was moved, alerting the boy to what his friend was attempting to do. His ears flicked upward in response, "Loose? Well... that wouldn't be surprising. I keep messing with them because they're a little itchy." Blinking, he ducked a little further down, "You think you can fix them? Heh, I doubt I did a very good job, so that would be really helpful. Kind of hard to wrap something up when you can't see it." He liked the idea of an actual patch over the eye -- it would be immensely easier to keep care for, and probably easier to put on as well! "That would probably work a lot better, but I have no idea where we could even find something like that," he laughed. Maybe if there was some costume shop around here or something, but would those eyepatches even be functional?

"Hey, Chayy, you're already helpful. Heck, even moral support is helpful, but you seem the type to go out of your way to try to help anyway," Trace insisted, recalling when the burmy wouldn't let go of the growlithe until he was sure things were taken care of, despite the lack of battle experience. "You've done more than enough already. We treat one another like family around here, when you're part of the gang. You won't have to repay anything!" he snickered. They were all just working toward the same goals, and could help one another along the way, but it wasn't a competition -- everyone benefitted on the whole, and everyone seemed to be set back just as easily. As long as they had some place, it was home, and that was the mindset that Trace had been equipped with his whole time living here. To him, it was the only way to survive. Idly, he began trying to devise where they could get their hands on any medical books. Did they have them at the library? Would they even let them, these street kids, in through the door if they were there? "Maybe a doctor's office or the library would have some decent books, but we'll probably have to be careful," he said finally.

At Chayy's affirmation of how he felt on the matter, and what he intended to do about it -- at least for the moment -- Trace offered a nod in the way of agreement. "I can't think of anything that would break such tight friendship... unless you went to the dark side?" he teased with a snicker. There was that downward dip in the tone, but Trace was trying to avoid it, if only for now. He was fairly certain the growlithe hadn't even wanted to do damage, only to scare... but he wasn't the brightest of street-dwelling pokémon out here, and Trace nearly winced at the anger that Chayy spoke of. The poochyena didn't like it any better, but he still believed it to be mostly his own doing, for not paying as much attention. "Alright, well he's just down the street a ways. I'm sure you've been starving long enough now anyways, am I right?" he offered a sheepish grin; that was entirely unintentional, to have Chayy wait so long for some food! As soon as he was able to, he hopped to the end of the alley and paused to make sure Chayy was following.

Chayy:
"Probably but I don't even know how to go about getting better ones. I'm sure there's a place to find them other than trashcans though I don't know how I could get some. Still I'm happy to have these!" he was very happy to be able to see even if they were broken.

"Not that it was much of an argument." Chayy gave a soft chuckle and shrugged a little. Not much argument at all just the two of them snapping at the other in a case of frayed nerves. Chayyim wasn't sure why he was reacting so strongly to the tension in the air and he could only reason it was due to Trace being his only friend. That would do it he reasoned.

"Shouldn't mess with them so much Trace." the chiding was gentle, amused really. "I'll sure try. Here stand still." Chayy moved around behind the other and undid the knot there and unwound the bandages without even trying to catch a look of the others eye, and instead began to rewrap them, snugger than they'd been, and he reaching every so often to brush hair away before the ends were secured and he came around again with a smile. "Perfetto!" perfect indeed!

"I don't know either..." he admitted thoughtfully. "...but that doesn't mean I won't be on the look out for one for you!" a pleased flush crossed the dark skinned bug childs face at Trace's praising words, and he couldn't help but smile. "Of course. You're my friend, so I'll do all I can to help you out."

'When you're part of the gang!' those words rang in his ears and while he was smiling a small rock formed in his stomach, because there was no denying that he wasn't part of the gang. Still, he'd take what he could be taught by the others on how the survive life on the streets, and go his own way. He wouldn't burden them trying to help him further than they would be.

"Maybe. Plenty of time to figure this out though." oh yes plenty. They'd find a way for him to get medical books. "No dark side for me thanks. Seems scary over there." very! At the reminder of being hungry his stomach growled loud enough he could hear it and his head ducked sheepishly a nod given. "I think you're right Trace yes."

Trace & Arashi:
Chayyim's current pair of glasses were most assuredly something good to have happen in what felt like a downhill tumble, that much was certain. They worked well enough as it was anyway, so as long as they held up, there was no sense worrying about replacement at all. While the statement of 'don't fix what isn't broke' didn't exactly fit here, it was... close enough. Trace looked thoughtful over the subject, as though taking mental note. "Well..." he said finally, "... we're just going to have to make ourselves a shopping list, to keep on the lookout for. Let's see... unbroken glasses, an eyepatch, and some medical books. Well... any books that could be of use, really." He tallied them off on his fingers, blinking once before tilting his head, "Did I miss anything?" It wasn't a long list, but they weren't exactly the easiest pieces to scavenge, so they were sure to have their work cut out for them! However, it also seemed like fun, a treasure hunt of sorts; they could do it!

"Eh?" the bite pokémon was a mite confused at the statement that Chayy's and Arashi's argument wasn't exactly an argument, until he caught on, "Oh, yeah, I suppose you're right. Poor choice of words... but what I said still stands. Can't fault you for having an opinion, or for being concerned. It's... probably why he lost his temper, too, anyway." They really needed to move past all of this, that much concern for things that couldn't be helped, that would have nothing to gain from it, seemed almost toxic. Trace just wanted things to be back to normal, for everyone to just speak to one another in the manner they could before the stars, before the incident...

He was trying to sit still while the burmy fixed his bandages, he really was, but it was difficult to when the mock scolding was causing him to have to try to hold back the laughter. Trace tried to twist the reaction into a mock whine to parry, but it was even less sincere-sounding because of it, "But they're itchyyyy, Thyme!" He stuck his tongue out as a tease then, "I'll try to be good, promise." However, as the bandages unwound from his head, the looser the cloth got, the more vulnerable he felt. There was rarely a time anymore where they weren't there, and it caused a chill to run up his spine, flinching slightly. The child still tried to sit still, but he also tried to hide the injury as much as possible. Attention was redirected when he felt Chayy slide his uncooperative hair away, and Trace was quick to try to help keep it out of the work space. "Ah, that was quick!" he exclaimed, surprised. Wiggling his ears a little, a broad grin found its way back onto his face, "It feels great, and a lot less itchy! Thank you!"

Trace found it amusing, noting the reddening of Chayyim's face as he had attempted to convince the burmy of his already-evident usefulness. He wasn't the best at taking a compliment, was he? But he wasn't going to tease him about it, that might only prove to make things more awkward for him, so Trace let him off with an agreeable nod, "I'd do the same for you. You're right, that's what friends do." He hadn't yet realized the dilemma Chayy was facing, yet to have been given the knowledge that they wanted him to stay as part of the gang. Chayy needed the help, and there wasn't a downside to having extra hands to help out. Trace already had it at the forefront of his mind that the burmy-boy was an integrated member, but forgot to explicitly state such!

With a nod, Trace reached back to grab hold of one of Chayyim's oversized sleeves, "Yup, we'll figure it out together. No use running it alone, if it can be done otherwise! Besides, the dark side only has us to fear, if we're both refusing to join it, eh?" He tugged a bit at the raggedy cloth, "Now that doesn't sound good! Heh, we'll straighten things out with Arashi real quick and get you some dinner. Sound good?"

They only had a couple of blocks to travel to catch up to the eevee, who already seemed to have pulled a few things aside to organize what he perceived as 'good' and what was 'bad.' Or... at least, that's what it looked like. He was pacing a bit, contemplating on how best to teach Chayyim, a pokémon he was fairly sure had never done something like this before. It would have been more helpful if there was more of a variety, more of a range... but it was adequate. His dark eyes caught as the both of them emerged from the street-side, and he waved them over, "I think it's a decent enough haul, but... hey, c'mere a second." He was no teacher, but maybe his bluntness in this instance would help the knowledge sink in faster. Or he could just turn it over to Trace to teach Chayyim; that worked, too.

Chayy:
"I think thats about it and easy enough to remember too honestly." or so he was thinking. It was only a few items after all, but they would probably be hard to locate. "I'll just make sure I'm really careful so my glasses don't get even worse." that wouldn't do them any good, putting them into a desperate situation like that!

"Well I'm sure we'll figure it out Trace I mean we're both your friend, so we'll have to learn to get along so that it doesn't become a problem regardless." it was just a passing thought but it was true! His attention was caught by a car passing by, some noise coming from it. Music. Not that he was aware of such things, but it intrigued him a little. Still, he pushed that sudden distraction away and refocused on Trace utterly as he worked on the bandages.

He could tell his friend was uncomfortable with the bandages being off, and he didn't want to make him regret letting him help. So he was more than a little pleased to hear that he'd done such a good job with rewrapping, especially for it being a first! It brought a pleased smile to his face, another slight blush but oh how bright his eyes were! "Very welcome Trace, just let me know if they get loose and I'll fix them again." he really didn't mind!

The tug on his sleeve was surprising but certainly attention grabbing and he looked at Trace again with another smile. "I think they'd be smart to be more afraid of you than me, or you and Arashi...but I can try to be scary!" he grimaced suddenly in an attempt to look menacing a growl of sorts, mimicking the noises he heard Trace making that night really rumbling up from his throat. It...wasn't the scariest of sounds or effects since he looked more grossed out than mean but at least he was trying to look fierce even if he was falling short of the mark!

"Food does sound really good...be nice to have something to eat." he flushed again head ducking as his stomach rumbled again a bit mortified at that point. The praises before had been nothing compared to the embarrassment he felt now. That had been a pleased sort of blushing, but this? Nope. His stomach sounded more menacing than he had!

Following behind Trace was easy enough and coming up behind him he was able to peer over his shoulder with ease at what Arashi had set up on the ground there, eying it curiously. At Arashi's beckoning words he did step around his friend and approached the other child almost cautiously. "What's all this?" simple curiosity really. He couldn't make heads or tails of it.


Trace & Arashi:
Trace grinned at the proofread list, "And with us both on the lookout, we can be twice as effective in our search, too!" It was definitely a nice, short list, even if it was a tad on the difficult-to-find end of the procurements spectrum. Eh, they had time; none of it was something they needed right away, at least at the moment. He studied Chayyim after his comment about being careful, finding the thought amusing, "I don't know what you might be up to that would break them any further." He knew that the burmy was likely nervous about any other run-in with the growlithe from before, or anyone similar, but Trace wasn't all that worried himself. They'd look out for one another! Besides, while Chayy may have been clumsy at times, he was still a careful klutz!

It was still lost on the poochyena that Chayy didn't consider himself a part of the gang, at least not yet. The burmy's comments, therefore, were more entertaining than they would have been had Trace the necessary information as to his friend's views on the matter! "You're not supposed to get along for my sake!" he laughed, "Really, I don't see it a problem, once you recognize and work around the quirks. I did it, so I don't see any reason why it wouldn't be possible for you to!" Trace saw no reason to give him any less credit than that; Chayy was a very intelligent pokémon! His ears twitched lightly as the bandages were tightened a bit further, but the passing car with the blaring music fazed the poochyena-child considerably less.

He poked at the adjusted bandages a little to test them, but didn't tug quite so much as he had been doing before. "Definitely working better. Heh, I'd be happy to request your assistance again, if you weren't too busy at the time! Don't think anyone else could have done it better!" he chirped happily.

Trace scoffed as Chayy insisted that he was more intimidating of an enemy than the burmy was, "What are you talking about? I thought we made a great team! Tag-team 'em! Besides, there's power in numbers, especially if it's with friends all working together." It would have also helped if either one of them had more battle experience under their metaphorical belts, but they could always work on that. Hearing Chayy's growl attempt cracked a smile across Trace's expression, "Hey, that was a good start! But we can work on that, too." There was a snicker of laughter, but he tried not to make it sound to pointedly attached to the situation... especially since that growling stomach actually had him more worried than amused! When was the last time Chayy had even eaten anything? That had to be remedied, stat!

The poochyena-child stepped to the side a bit as they caught up, giving Chayy better access to taking the lead in the alleyway. He seemed to be... just as confused, to be perfectly honest. Arashi barely gave the questioning looks a second thought; he knew he wasn't the best to be showing the ropes, but it was better than explaining it anyway. "I thought it might be helpful to teach you how to pick out the good food, but I kind of... revised my idea partway through, so this is a rough setup. Very rough..." he admitted, scratching the back of his head, "Maybe we can make a game of it." Obviously, he had no idea how much the burmy was starving, to be offering a suggestion like that! Trace busied himself in the background, in an attempt to grab something for Chayy to eat if he was going to be forced to do something like that... no use doing so on an empty stomach!

After a moment or two of silent deliberation, Arashi sighed, "Hey, um... sorry for acting that way back there. I should have been more patient, and..." And he was terrible with words; he couldn't find the ones that adequately explained what it was he was feeling at that time. He hoped it didn't need to be said, and dropped the attempt at that. Instead, he picked it up from another starting point, "No hard feelings?"

Chayy:
"This is true, especially since we both know what it is we're looking for. Hopefully some of it is easier to find than I'm thinking it will be." he mentally crossed his fingers at the idea of it being easier. Oh if only! Though he had a feeling it wouldn't. Still they'd do their best he knew! "Hopefully nothing that breaks them honestly. I'm doing a bit better now that I'm bigger actually....and have these things. I can see where I'm going in more ways than one." he chuckled some then. It was true the height made it easier to see further, and the glasses just in general.

Chayy was wondering just how much time he'd be spending around Arashi, especially at the comment of them not having to get along for his sake. He was now assuming now much so just gave a nod of his head. "Well alright. Hopefully you're right about that." he sure hoped so! "Good, don't hesitate to ask, or let me know even if I'm doing something, so I can hurry up and help you." while he was around the other anyhow. "Maybe Arashi can help with that too when I'm not able to help." well, why not?

There was a serious look on his face as he listened to Trace and he gave a nod of his head a smile on his face then. "You're right it's probably better with more people to deal with someone causing troubles." and thus why he needed to get better at such things so when he was turned loose again he'd stand a better chance. "How long will it take, you think? ....to get it so I can protect myself I mean since I'll be on my own. I'm going to work as hard as I can at it, so it's not an issue, I'm just wondering how long you think it might take me to become as strong, and tough as you." nothing like simultaneously praising the other, while putting himself down, and putting forth the thoughts he had about not being a part of the gang. Just a friend to one of them after all, and a new one at that.

"Okay...what sort of game did you have in mind?" he could wait to eat. He knew learning the good from the bad was important, and he was seeing more in front of him in the short time they'd been apart, than he'd seen in the last few days put together. It brought another loud rumble from his stomach but he ignored it, and paid attention to Arashi waiting for him to continue...only to blink in surprise, straightening some.

"Oh, no it's okay. We were both worried. Trace told me what happened with his eye, and I understand you were worried and confused and I was worried and confused and I'm sorry I snapped at you. I'm normally not like that." maybe it had to do with how hungry he was a part of him mused. "No, no hard feelings. Now, lets teach me about this so I have more luck from now on."

His eyes shone behind those glasses as he waited for this impromptu lesson to continue, eager to learn more, and to learn how to fit into life here in the city. He was sure between Trace and Arashi, he'd be able to better survive on his own after this!

Trace & Arashi
Trace most assuredly agreed with the sentiments Chayyim spoke of. He'd never exactly run across any of those items in his searches in the past, even if he hadn't been looking for them back then. That wasn't to say they couldn't be found at all, but it might prove tricky! With a grin, he shook his head, "I think we can get those glasses of yours to stand up to the test of time, should be fine." It was true, though, being able to actually see where he was going should help cut down on any accidental trips.

"I'm positive!" Trace insisted; if things weren't looking to be too congenial between Chayy and Arashi, he'd be more than eager to set things straight. He was happy to know that he could get some help with the bandages, as touchy as a subject as it seemed to be at the present, especially from someone he could trust. "Well I don't want to be a nuisance about it!" he laughed, "I have tried to get Arashi to help before. Let's just say he's, eh... not the best at this sort of thing." He made a face at that; the eevee definitely wasn't the most careful of individuals when it came to doing something he wasn't used to doing...

The critical direction the conversation was taking, or at least masquerading as to the poochyena, made him more perceptive to the conversation as a whole. He was anxious to turn it towards a more uplifting subject, if only because the amount of stress preceding it had felt like more than enough for the entire week. So while he was content on nodding as response to astute observation, he was more quick on the uptake when Chayy admitted to not understanding the implications Trace had been trying -- or had he forgotten? -- to make. His expression betrayed his shock, now fully understanding where the burmy was coming from. "Oh, no no no! We're not going to let you go out there on your own like that, it's too dangerous!" Trace exclaimed, "Out here, if at all possible, it's best to stay as a group. More eyes on the lookout that way, and means to living more comfortably. Heck, at times I think the more pokémon in a gang, the better." Well, unless they were opposition... However, he realized he may have been too hasty to assume, and he lowered the tone of his voice from one so tensed from surprise, "Well, um... unless you'd prefer it on your own. I suppose I forgot to ask that, huh?" The sheepish smile he offered then wasn't enough to completely mask his concern.
Arashi observed the mess he'd made in the alley way a bit further, discerning how he was supposed to go about explaining a half-baked idea for a game if he was still unsure of how it worked. "Well..." he mulled aloud, "I was thinking we could go through them and see how often you were able to pick up on what was actually good for consumption and what wasn't. We could give some pointers beforehand, maybe, and explain more as we went along or something. Of course we wouldn't let you actually eat something bad, so you don't have to worry there." His tail flicked and a slight frown deepened; that was a horrible explanation. What sort of a game was that?

The eevee-boy winced slightly at the suggestion that he had been worried, not because it was false but because it was something he didn't like to admit he ever felt. Arashi was a proud pokémon, stemming from the belief that he had to be early on to survive, and the thought of his emotions being able to be picked apart so easily grated on him. There was no irritation aimed at Chayyim for it, though, since he was fairly certain Trace was the one to say so. Regardless, if the burmy-boy was going to be part of the gang... he supposed it didn't really hurt for him to know of it. He sighed, running a hand through his messy hair, "Yeah, you're right. You'd think if two people were feeling the same way like that there'd be more understanding at the time, though." He liked how eager Chayyim was to get to the point of this whole excursion, though, and gratefully occupied his attention with the same, picking up a few items to test how well this 'game' held water.

Once Arashi turned away, Trace came back to Chayy's side and nudged him with a breadstick, "Here, eat this. No use going through all this on a completely empty stomach when you're so hungry. It should be good, just maybe a little stale." Fitting it was made to be an appetizer, too!