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Without realizing it, her defenses were slowly dropping. Her lips creased into a natural smile as she recalled the rather horrifying yet amusing experience. “Well, let's just say that her neck of the woods had a very pleasant hot springs and I was caught off guard by her.” Her cheeks burned as she continued, “After climbing the nearest tree and making a run for it, I had to wait a few hours to retrieve the rest of my clothes since I only made it out with just my underclothes...”

At the mention of what sort of pokemon he was, she chuckled. “You're Arceus? Well, no wonder you have such a noble name. Maybe that's why I feel like I can trust you.” The last words she said were whispered softly beneath her breath. Like this, she felt like they were on equal ground. She didn't see him as some legendary creature to be worship as much as she saw him as a kind yet odd man.

It was around this point that realized they were holding hands. The beating of her heart stuttered as she quickly looked away. Kaiya was officially embarrassed. First her silly story and now she'd realize that she was holding hand with a guy without even knowing it. All she could hope is that he hadn't notice it either. Too ashamed to do anything about it, Kaiya just kept a good grip on his hand.

Her lips quiver slightly as she realized what she'd done. Or hope she hadn't done. Kaiya paused, her hands grasping his tightly. “I-I don't mean to sound like I'm judging you for being what you are.” It was a sore spot for her and something she needed to rectify. Especially to the first person she's open up to in a long time. “I'd rather befriend you for who I think you are.” She looked down for a moment, feeling heat in her cheeks and a flutter in her chest. “And I think that you're someone good and noble with a family that loves you dearly. You must be a caring brother to be out here looking for your sister.”

Kaiya chuckled, feeling a little embarrassed as she realized her words came a little suddenly. “I grew up being judged for what I am not the person I am. The idea that I might have done that to someone else, I can't have that.”

Feeling a weight lift off her shoulders, she continued on. “Y'know. It was pretty memorable. I'm sorta happy that it happened though. That day with the Ursaring. If I was leading you around without having that meeting, your sister would have to wait a bit longer for her brother.”

Kaiya couldn't help, but giggle. “You're definitely a good brother. Making the trek all the way out here in order to give her a grand surprise. I hope she will have a good birthday.” It felt like forever since she was this happy.

His kind words left her with a warmth spreading from her chest. “If you keep those compliments flowing, I might not be able to stop smiling. Thank you.” she murmured shyly in response. “It's hard to be so angry and guarded when you've only been kindly to me. I can't be that cold hearted. No matter how hard I try.” She felt awkward and giggly. Almost uncertain of what do with herself now that she'd done away with the wall around her heart.

She nearly tripped over her own feet. “W-would your family mind? If I came along with you that is.” Kaiya realized she was stuttering. The offer was the most kindest thing that she'd ever heard directed at her. She found herself lost in thought as she fell silent. There was a tremor in her being that seem to over take the warmth within. It was cold and seem to twist her insides. It was a familiar feeling. One that she'd became indifferent to. It was the fear or rejection. What if they didn't like her?

The thoughts swirling around her head came to a halt as she squeezed his hand tightly once more. “I wouldn't mind going though, so long as you're right there with me.” she said, pushing a faint smile. She didn't want to doubt the small gifts in life and chose to shoo the thoughts from her mind. This was her second chance after all, why squander it with petty thoughts of the past?

From thudding away in her chest, her heart suddenly leaped into her throat. This was the most positive contact she'd have with anyone and she retaliated by placing her hands over his. How he explained his family left her with so many questions. She wanted to ask, they were on the tip of her tongue, but she felt that she'd rather be surprised instead. “I'm think I'm ready to redefine normal then. I'll come along though, I have a few important questions for you.”

She inhaled, taking in a deep breath before releasing it all in the form of one long and rather excited train. “You'll need to show me the way to your home since I assume you don't live within the forest. Do you live far from here? A-and what does your sister like so I can get her a gift? I don't have much, maybe her favorite berry or flower? It's rude to show up without a present, right? Don't you normally gift the matriarch of the family?” She chuckled nervously. “Goodness, can you tell I don't get out much?” Removing one of her hands, Kaiya ran a hand over the leaves along the opposing arm. “I think I'm turning into a hermit.”

“Mm, roses are something I can do.” She said, replacing her hand back in his. “Very easily too.” Kaiya wondered where the rose bushes were. She knew she had some within the forest. Her soft spot for beautiful flowers assured her that much. “Perhaps I can pick a few for both your sister and mother. Getting a gift for the matriarch of the family is sorta a tradition for my family.”

It was hard not to flinch at the mention of her family. She was determined though to not let the past affect her good mood. Today was a good day thus far, no point in ruining it with foul memories. Pushing aside her past, she thought of the city and how life there must be like. “Truth be told. I've never actually been to the city. Always watched it from a distance. Guess all the metal makes me feel uneasy.”

“Ah, we're here.” She motioned toward the thick clump of trees up ahead with low hanging branches acting almost like curtains. “Your sister should be beyond within the clearing. Would you like me to wait here for you? I wouldn't want to intrude or anything.”

“Well, then I suppose I'll tag along til you reach home safely. Wouldn't want you to get in anymore messes... Just in case you walk you sister back towards the Ursaring or A-” Kaiya paused for a moment. The words Arceus knows were close to tumbling from her lips. She had almost forgotten what he was. A slight blush crossed her face and quickly faded as she swiftly corrected herself. “Goodness knows what else trouble. Perhaps a patch of poison ivy or some brambles.” The Grovyle girl chuckled as she shifted awkwardly in place.“ Though, I have to insist that you go first. I don't want to startle you sister or anything.” Kaiya replied as she stepped to the side and swept a hand to the side. The branches followed the motions of her hand and created an archway for them to pass through.