Welcome to Gaia! ::

Flua had learned early on how to be gentle with humans and others smaller than he, considering he was larger than nearly every being he ever met. Enjoying the affection placed upon him, he cooed quietly, and softly, a little song, to bring about an even more pleasant atmosphere to the already lovely setting.

Continuing to watch Tulip, Mako perked up a little when the Bellsprout suddenly blurted out, and circled him, crooking a brow, before giving an amused little snort. With a crooked grin, he lowered a hand, letting the back of it rest on the warm sand, but leaving it extended just a little to Tulip in offering. Listening to Hatch's concerns, he was quiet a moment, before finally putting his words together, "Well. Why not go along with her more offensive style, instead of trying to change it? seems like she can do what you'd like, but in a different sorta way." he paused, tipping his head a little, to rest his cheek on a knee, "Maybe having a more defensive nature could help with troublesome patients, and stuff." he let his fingers on the offered hand wriggle a little bit in the sand to imitate the root feet that Tulip possessed. "Might just be a part of who she is."

Emile gave a small glance to Zhira as he approached further, frowning, before crouching, and leaping into the air to glide out over the sand again. He circled a few times before landing by pulling his little arms in, near the strange red object. It was nestled in the soft surface, covered a bit... sniffing at it, he gave a little shout of warning at it. But no reaction. A few steps closer, and he sniffed some more, before perking up. It was... really shiny, and familiar. Tilting his head, he pawed at the smooth, red surface... discovering it to be rounded, and scratched up. A Poke Ball. He tried to dig around it, but with such tiny paws, the process was taking too long. Puffing his cheeks, he looked back to Zhira and called out to him with a great deal of urgency.There was a Pokemon in there!

His petting along Flua’s neck turned into long and distracted strokes. Use Tulip for her offensive abilities? He glanced down at the little bellsprout, lips pursing slightly. Well, that was probably a good idea. Sometimes, the job of a healer wasn’t done in the safety of a clinic. “You have a point,” he admitted, watching Tulip creep slowly closer to Mako. “I didn’t intend to spend my work hours in a clinic... I’d thought about getting pokemon for defensive purposes, but I never really put much time into considering it. Suppose I should, now.” Besides, a pokemon was happiest being itself.

Tulip watched the wiggling fingers with interest, slowly stepping out from behind Hatch’s leg for a closer inspection of the thick looking ‘roots’ the human was displaying.

Zhira’s ears perked as Emile called. He hurried forward, and sniffed at the pokeball. What was it doing in the sand by itself?! He looked at Emile, and then over at the humans. “Meowth! Meow-owth!” As if he was going to dig through the sand... Let the humans have at that!

Tulip was just a foot away from Mako’s fingers when Zira started calling for their attention. “Bell!” Immediately interested, she darted like a bullet to where the two pokemon stood, kicking up more sand than should have been possible in her wake.

Zhira’s fur fluffed out as Tulip charged at them, and leapt out of the way with a hiss to avoid being trampled by the speeding plant.
Tulip used her vine whip and grabbed the pokeball without hesitation, yanked it out of the sand and held it up for inspection in the sun. “Bellsprout!”

Patiently Mako watched Tulip as she observed his antics, admittingly a bit taken by the curious Pokemon's behavior and nature. She had a spunky spirit to her, that he could definitely appreciate. It was a pleasing to hear Hatch's agreement with his statement, too, making him glance up to the other trainer, and nod along in turn. "so... do you work from home, then?" there still wasn't a lot he knew about the guy. But that wasn't too surprising considering his lack of socializing, and companionship beyond his own Pokemon. He didn't even know if they guy lived here or was just passing by!

With the sound of Zhira's summons for them, Mako peered over his shoulder to see what was up, only to widen his eyes as the Bellsprout darted around him and after the two Pokemon further down the beach. Standing quickly, Mako turned to face said direction, frowning, before making his way over to see what was going on, not even bothering to say anything to Hatch in his haste.
Flua retracted himself back to the water fully with the reaction of the land lovers, slinking into the liquid blue, to swim further down and closer to what was going on with the trio of Pokemon.

Emile squeaked in protest and shock when Tulip stampeded over, bowling him back from the mere startlement, causing him to get a face of sand. Coughing a little, and shaking out his fur, he began to shout at the plant in anger, letting his voice die down when Mako got close enough.

The trainer squinted, adjusted his glasses, and bent a little for a better look at what the Bellsprout held in her vine. A Poke Ball...? Where'd that come from? Straightening up, he looked around them again, a hand raised over his eyes for shade, as he scanned the area another time. There weren't any signs of tracks or others... back to the ball and Bellsprout, he extended a hand towards her, at a low level, and cupped, "Mind if I look at that?" he asked. Emile instantly gave a snappy command for Tulip to do as his trainer asked.

Mind on his work now, he smiled and nodded. “Mostly. I-” He looked over at Zhira with surprise as the meowth called out. Something had those two interested. His eyes widened when Tulip suddenly darted away, forcing himself to suppress the laugh that wanted to rise at Zhira’s reaction. Poor guy. He hurried after Mako, squatting down next to the other teen for a closer look as well.
Shaking out his ruffled fur, Zhira huffed at Tulip before trotting over to climb up to the safety of Hatch’s back, peeking over Hatch’s shoulder to watch.

Tulip turned the ball every which way to inspect it, completely ignoring the irate emolga. She turned to look at the humans, and then at the emolga. Squinting stubbornly at Emile, she opened the blossom of her head as wide as she could, and stuffed the pokeball inside, giving Emile a defiant glare.

Watching the scene unfold, Hatch groaned and rubbed his cheek. Really? “Tulip, if Emile found it, it goes to his trainer.” He pointed over to Mako’s hand. “Go on. Let Mako have the ball.”

Tulip looked up at Hatch and fluttered her leaves. She seemed pleased with herself now, and readily spat the ball back out into Mako’s waiting palm

Golden eyes widened with surprise as Tulip engulfed the entire Poke Ball into her blossom, making him blink a few times with shock.... before a grin cracked on his usually fierce face, which trickled to a little snickering of amusement. This Bellsprout definitely had a personality, alright. Grin keeping on his face as the plant finally obeyed Hatch's command, he gave Tulip a nod of appreciation, "Thanks, Tulip." with the Poke Ball now in his hand, he turned it a few times to inspect, frowning as he saw the multiple gashes, scratches, and divots on it. This thing had been through a lot... and was quite aged, by the looks of it. There were signs of the pain being damaged along one side. "Who would leave this laying around...?" he mumbled to himself.

Once Mako had the ball, Emile scampered over to crawl up the arm holding it, pointing with great fervor at the ball, "Emuh, emuh!" the urgency was clear.

Glancing to Hatch, Mako frowned, "Seems it's got a Pokemon in it... by the way Emile's acting..." he felt his anger starting to rise under his skin, "Who would leave their Pokemon..." his voice trailed, before he stood abruptly, pushing the front button to enlarge the ball, and summon the Pokemon within out.
With a great flash, the contents revealed itself: a Sharpedo. Eyes wide again, Mako stared at the grand shark, as it lay in the sand, staring at the cluster of human and Pokemon alike. It didn't move, or react, just stared, slowly from one individual to the next... though its eyes looked sluggish.

"Flua, water!" Mako shouted out to the Milotic, who reacted just as the command was given. Seemingly out of nowhere, water began to spin around the large leviathan like a ribbon, growing in size, and length, before being guided towards the land to the Sharpedeo, circling around it to create a depression in the sand, and fill it. It rose high enough to the mid level of the sharks nose, who seemed to relax more with the liquid surrounding it. Mako continued to stare, his tiny hands balling into tight fists, teeth gritting firmly, brows heavily furrowed. Clearly, he was pissed. How long had the Sharpedo been out here, stuck in its ball?

Noting his trainers increasing anger, Flua stretched his long body from the sea, to lean in close to the Sharpedo, cooing to it, and questioning it gently. The shark peeked an eye open, and made little grumbling sounds in response, but kept a calm demeanor, just content to be in water again. Eventually, Flua began to draw up some more water to help douse along the rough skin of the other water dweller, which just helped all the more.

Emile stared warily at the new Pokemon, defensively standing in front of Mako, cheeks sparking lightly with warning. "What idiot of a trainer... would leave their Pokemon like this..?" Mako finally seethed, between clenched teeth, in a restrained, quiet tone.

Once the ball was in better view, his brow knit with concern. It sure was a beat up thing... And something was in it?! His own eyes widened with shock as the pokemon was revealed, and then his brow knit with concern. The poor thing! It looked exhausted despite having just come out from the ball. He looked over at Mako, then back at the sharpedo, and sighed. This was abysmal... “Whoever does this to their pokemon should be flogged,” he growled softly. Pushing himself up with Zhira still slinging to his back, he turned and hurried over to where his bike and pack were resting. Pulling out the first aid kit that he pretty much always had on him, he hurried back and knelt in front of the weary pokemon. “Hey there... Do you mind if I look you over? I want to make sure you’re okay,” he said gently, holding out his hand to wait for the sharpedo’s approval.

Zhira huffed and jumped off from Hatch’s back. Great. Something else trying to steal his human’s attention! He could only hope that since Mako had released the pokemon from the ball, he would be the one to keep it.

Tulip watched it all unfold from a short distance away. Truthfully, she sympathized with the sharpedo, and toddled closer with her trainer. “Bellsprout,” she encouraged, blossom head tilting and leaved fluttering to seem appealing. Hatch had help her feel better, so surely her trainer could help the sharpedo as well!

The petite trainer just watched as Flua continued to hydrate the exhausted Sharpedo, feeling his anger boil, and rise in his stomach. He wanted what ever son of a gun had done this, and give them a piece of his mind! But seeing Hatch return with the medical kit, he calmed a touch, just enough to step forward too and kneel beside the healer too.

The shark peeked its other eye open to glance at Hatch as he advanced, watching him a few seconds, and then the hand, before closing the eye again in acceptance. Flua's natural presence seemed to help, too, considering he was a Milotic and a bringer of good feelings. The Sharpedo had some scratches, scars, and such along her body, but nothing too terrible... but it was clear she'd been in battle, and hadn't been properly healed up again, thus her sluggish behavior, and lack of energy. Looking worriedly to Hatch, Mako balled his hands again into fists in his lap, "Do... you think it'll be alright..?" of course it might have been a premature question to ask at this point but... his nerves were getting the best of him.

Hearing the Bellsprout call out, those sharp eyes peeled back open again, a stark contrast to the dark navy of the rough skin. And on that weary, tired face, there was a small sign of a smile, by the way those yellow eyes bunched slightly.

He spoke softly and encouragingly as he leaned in, stroking the thick hide of the sharpedo gently. He started inspecting the various wounds, his face remaining in a flat, inspective, but still gentle expression. Thanks to the water, he was able to turn the pokemon without disturbing her too much to look at her underside. He tried to hold back an opinion until he was done looking her over, and then he turned to Mako with a smile. “I think she’ll be okay. Doesn’t look too serious. ..And I’m pretty sure she’s a she. Looks like she probably lost a battle, and the trainer...” his brow knit and he looked back at the sharpedo, giving her a few more gentle strokes, “the trainer was an idiot. I’m going to patch her up a bit, but I think what she needs most is a comfortable and safe place to rest and rehydrate.”
Tulip wouldn’t sit still, constantly circling the group while inspecting the injured pokemon. It was.. nice.. watching her trainer work.

Zhira was still off by himself in quite a huff, cleaning his fur smooth again as best as he could after Tulip got him all ruffled.

After a few stitches and bandages, Hatch leaned back and nodded. “Okay. That’ll do for now.” He looked at the pokeball the sharpedo had been inside, and frowned. “I never thought about this, but.. do you think she’ll be able to go into a different ball? One not all beat up and damaged? She’ll probably do better in one of your empties.”

The Sharpedo gave no trouble, or difficulties, showing no signs of hostility even with the strangers surrounding it. It kept calm as the inspection began, willingly moving when encouraged to, and giving a few small flinches when particularly deep, or more severe injuries were touched. It was while watching with worry, that Mako started to take note of the lovely markings on the Water/Dark type. That large star on its head stood out, and the streaks along the side were lovely too... not to mention the little decal on one of the front fins. Quickly snapping his gaze back to Hatch for the verdict, he let out a long, deep breath that he'd been holding nervously, relaxing with relief when the ok was announced. It'd be ok... a she, huh? Nodding slowly, his features smoothed more on his face, a surprisingly calm demeanor starting to take effect. But the mention of the trainer from before... made him tighten up again with anger. "I'd like to give that dead beat a piece of my mind..." he growled under his breath, arms folding tightly over his chest. Continuing to watch Hatch work diligently, he grew another level of respect for the other teen, thankful he was here. He had a few Super Potions in his bag, but.. he didn't think they'd do much in this case.

Emile had walked around the little pool as well, eyeing the Sharpedo at various sides, before nearly bumping into Zhira. Snapping at the other Pokemon, he frowned at him, before backing up a ways to also start grooming himself. Some sand had gotten into his silky, pristine pelt, after all.

Inching closer to settle beside Hatch as he worked, Mako gazed at the Sharpedo with empethy. She seemed so calm, and docile... even though she was a bit beaten up, it was still surprising to see. Most Sharpedo were fierce, and had tempers that were worriesome for most. But, that was just most, not all. And like all, every Pokemon was different. When Hatch finished, Mako looked to him, "Thanks for helping her." he murmured, one of his hands reaching out in offering to the shark. She simply looked at it, before closing her eyes again, where in which was enough of an acceptance for the tiny trainer to reach out and gingerly smooth his hand along the front of her face. She was rather dehydrated, by how rough her skin was. Of course all Sharpedo had rough skin, but this... was considerably so. When Hatch spoke up, Mako had to take a second to realize what he was asking, before whipping his head around to look at him with surprise. "Mine..?" he repeated back, in a quieter voice. Glancing back to the healing water creature, his lips pressed, "Do... you think I should..?" he asked hesitantly. What if the trainer did come back? What about Hatch? He'd helped her, after all...

Zhira looked up with a start as Emile suddenly appeared. He gave a small, lack-luster growl, and resumed cleaning. Nothing special going on anyway...

Hatch nodded slowly. He’d like to tell off the missing trainer as well. Mako’s surprise at his suggestion made him smile though. “Well, yeah. Like I said before, it was Emile that found it, right?” He glanced over at Zhira for confirmation, amused that the meowth was more than happy to pass the responsibility of finding the pokeball on Emile. “Besides... It might sound shallow, but... a trainer who treats their pokemon like this doesn’t deserve one...” He raised a hand to rub a crick from his neck. “At the very least, you should take care of her and come back once a day for a while to see if her trainer even comes back for her. There’s still that chance it’s an honest mistake, and the trainer should appreciate you keeping her safe.” He leaned down and reached to stroke the sharpedo’s side, his voice softening with sympathy for the pokemon. “As it is... I don’t think the trainer will be coming back...”

Tulip, meanwhile, had turned to sneaking around Mako in search of the sharpedo’s ball. The pokemon was out. She wanted the ball back! Viney tendrils began easing up behind Mako’s body in search for the item before darting in for the grab.

"That's... true..." he muttered, before looking to Hatch, "But... what if she'd prefer to go with you. You're the one who helped her, and stuff, after all.." he mumbled, with a faint hint of a grumble in his voice. This was a bit... of an awkward situation. He definitely wanted to take her with him, and make sure she was getting plenty of time in the water, and to make sure she could still swim properly, but... Hatch was a healer, and had cared for her. Pressing his lips again, he turned his head to look away from the other trainer, "I just.. want her to be comfortable, and happy." he suddenly snapped irritably, his temper and fiesty 'tude returning as a defense mechanism. But Hatch was so right... No one would leave their Pokemon like this. If he'd lost any of his partners, he'd not rest, or leave the area they last were until he found them again. How could anyone leave her...? She was so sweet, by what he saw so far. And she seemed to really enjoy the gentle pets she was earning... With an annoyed sigh, he looked to Emile, and called him over.

The Emolga was glaring at Zhira from time to time as he rapidly groomed, perking up when he was called. Gliding over immidiately to perch onto Mako's outstretched arm, he tilted his head curiously.

"Go find some berries nearby, if you can. She's probably hungry.." he requested, the Emolga giving a somewhat displeased glance at the Sharpedo, before obediently leaping up and gliding off into the surrounding forest to do as asked.

It was then that Mako noticed the lingering vine that was hanging around, blinking at it, before following it back to Tulip. Oh... right. With a tip of his head in gesture, he gave her the go ahead, while reaching for a fresh, unused ball in his messanger bag. Turning it a few times in his hand, he looked over at Hatch again, and then stubbornly off, "Don't think I'd give her back even if the trainer came back around..." he muttered bitterly.

He cocked his head and smiled. “I think you’re better suited to care for her. You have other water pokemon, so you have a better idea of how to work with them.” He watched the thoughts run through Mako’s head, brow knitting at the sudden snap of the sweet voice. It was only a moment later though that he relaxed and smiled warmly again. “And that’s why she’ll be happy with you.” Hatch would have adored having the sharpedo, but his heart told him that Mako would be the better fit.

Zhira looked up when Emile left their little grooming contest, and fluffed his fur. Heh. Little emolga getting sent on an errand~ Tail and chin in the air, he decided to head back to the bike and the shade of the tree to wait for Hatch.
Tulip froze when Mako looked around at her, but then fluttered her leaves happily. “Bellsprout!” Vines quickly wrapping around the battered ball, she turned and darted away with it to look it over in private.

Looking around at his two pokemon, Hatch chuckled softly. Such strange but wonderful companions... Mako’s bitter tone brought his eyes back around, and he nodded in understanding. “Can’t say I’d blame you,” he murmured in agreement. Finally, he made himself back off so that Mako could bond with the sharpedo more, keeping himself out of the way now that his job was done, watching the pair with a content smile.

Glancing to Hatch from the corner of his eye, and then the Sharpedo again, he kept quiet as he listened. He... was a man of the sea, after all. So he did know how those who were natives to it lived, and how to care for them. But.. that wasn't really a good enough excuse. Conflicted, his hands tightened, balled, relaxed, and repeated in his lap, pressing firmly at his knees. With a snort, he finally obliged, "Ok.." he muttered under his breath, looking back to the shark again. Reaching out, he began to stroke her some more, admiring how strong her thick skin was. Like an armor for battle. But it contrasted her lax nature currently, and how she seemed to really enjoy the caresses. "Hey would... you mind if I looked after you..?" he hesitantly asked the Sharpedo, whose eyes peeled open lazily from the question. Meeting her gaze, he stiffened nervously, new Poke Ball held up in his other hand. She eyed it slowly, stared, before closing her eyes again. Was... that a yes..? It seemed to be, from past interactions. Taking a small breath, he let the equipped hand move forward to tap against her nose, and the ball popped open, bright light zipping out and covering her entire body. Vacuuming her in, the balls button flashed between its normal white and red, before calming after awhile. Releasing another held breath, Mako smiled lightly, gazing with adoration at the ball. "I'll take good care of you.." he promised. Standing, he looked back to Hatch, before quickly shooting his gaze off, clearing his throat, "Thanks... again.." he awkwardly muttered to the other trainer, rubbing the back of his neck uncomfortably. "I guess I owe you one..." he really hated being in debt to others, but he was a man of quite a few old traditional morals and a man of his word. "I could uh... make you something to eat, or what ever.." he offered. He didn't have much, and money was super tight, considering. It was a lame offer, but it was all he had on him!

Emile eventually returned back, a small bushel of assorted berries in his mouth. Gliding back down, he circled before landing onto Mako's shoulder, plopping the berries into his lifted hand once it was there. The small rodent earned some strokes and pets, in return.

Leaning back, a content smile rose as he watch Mako slowly settling on the idea, and the sharpedo accept it. Mako was fun to watch, really. He gave a little sigh of relief when the sharpedo vanished into the ball, and he stretched his arms up over his head. Mako would take care of her, he was sure. As he pushed himself up, he looked over at Mako with surprise. “You... owe me?” He was utterly perplexed, head cocking slightly. “What do you think you owe me for? Helping pokemon is what I do.” Yet, still, a small smile rose. “But.. if you really want to.. I wouldn’t say no to getting together some time just to hang out.”

Zhira’s ears rose immediately, looking back at the two teens curiously. They were planning something... and he wasn’t sure he liked it. The other human was nice enough, as was Flua, but why would he spend more time with that silly emolga?

Tulip was oblivious to it all, just happy to have the beat-up pokeball back in her possession. She tucked it into her mouth as she had before, and toddled back to the teens with a flutter of her leaves.

Hatch's reaction slowly made Mako begin to tighten up again, his lips press, brows furrow, and gaze shoot away as heat rose on his cheeks with embarrassment, "yeah well still. If you hadn't been here, who knows what would have happened." he snapped quickly, arms crossing firmly across his chest. Emile gave a firm nod of his own in Hatch's direction to punctuate, shooting little glares around from Zhira to the odd Bellsprout.

With another grumble and snort, Mako called back Flua, and then dug into his messanger bag to pull out his phone, taking a few steps closer to the other trainer. He didn't have the money for a fancy PokeNav like some trainers had... "Here. Give me your number, and I'll text you when I get off work tomorrow. We can hang out and have food, or what ever, then." he mumbled, Emile's nose wrinkling with distaste. Did that mean that fluffy, pompous cat was going to come, too...? Not too keen on the idea, he turned himself to face the opposite way, letting his butt face the others.

Surprise raised his brow once again. If he hadn’t been there? Well, surely Mako would have simply taken her to the nearest clinic... Perhaps Mako wouldn’t have chosen to keep her. His smile steadily returned, and he nodded. “Okay. You got me there.” He rattled off his number, bouncing on his toes slightly with excitement. He hadn’t simply ‘hung out’ with anyone since before he’d started taking his healer training more seriously! And Mako sure was an interesting guy. “I’ll see you tomorrow then!” He blinked curiously when he realized Emile had turned away, and chuckled lightly. Just as moody as his trainer, it seemed~ “Tulip. Zhira. We should head back home.”

Tulip happily zipped up to perch on Hatch’s shoulder, peering at Mako with another flutter of leaves. “Bell!”

Zhira, however, remained by the bicycle, tail twitching with his back to everyone while waiting for Hatch to walk back over to him. When Hatch got back to the bike, he gracefully leapt up into the basket with his nose in the air.

Hatch decided to stop by the clinic first, and get his hands on some extra material about healing water pokemon. This way, he felt better about if he needed to touch up anything on the lovely sharpedo.

With the number filed away into his phone, and the name tacked onto it, Mako shoved the device back into his bag, and stuffed away his Pokeballs now. With a small nod of acknowledgement for the engagement the following day, he only spared a tiny glance to watch Hatch take his leave, attention shifting to the little Bellsprout who seemed quite pleased with herself..to which he gave a grin to. She was a silly little thing... but had a great personality by the looks of it. Once everyone started going their own way, only then did Emile turn back around, glad that oversized Purrloin wasn't around anymore. And so the pair were off. He stopped by the grocery for some discounted things... nothing special, but just so his fridge wouldn't be entirely bare, or the meal too skimpy.

The next day was just another grind at the bakery, counting the ticking of the clock, and the hands that turned with them. It seemed to go on longer than usual.... maybe it was because of the red faced woman that came in spouting off something or other about the cake she wanted and how she demanded to have it unreasonably large and bedazzled. Thank goodness Mako was kept in the back to avoid such nonsense, or else he'd give her a piece of his mind! Thankfully it was nearing the end of his shift, just as evening was starting. Since he was in the back, he pulled out his phone to shoot a text to Hatch, lips pursing this way and that as he tried to figure out the best way to devise a message. It'd been ages since he'd last texted...

[ Hey. It's Mako. The one you helped with the Sharpedo yesterday. I'll be off work in 10. ]

He paused to think again, nibbling his lip and frowning. This was difficult.

[ want to meet somewhere again, or...something?]
He was rusty at this.

Now that the evening was coming, he felt his nerves biting back. Hang out? Hang out?! What was he going to do to hang out? When they’d previously met, it had been coincidence, or something had happened to talk about and focus on. But, to plan an evening? He jumped when his phone beeped the text notice at him, and he finally laughed at himself. Right. It would be fine. Plucking up the phone, he laughed a little more at the text’s message. Mako seemed to be unable to decide if he was sparky or shy. It was amusing, really. He cocked his head slightly before nodding to himself.

[ Why not meet where we first did at the park? Then we can go wherever from there. ]

“Okay guys. Off we go.” Zhira and Tulip both went into their pokeballs and got tucked into the special pocket at the side of the pack. Hatch grabbed the veggie dip he’d made that afternoon and the bag of tortilla chips he’d bought, prayed that Mako would enjoy it, tossed it into the basket of his bike, and headed on to the park. Thankfully, it was a clear, cool day; perfect for a ride.

The message made Mako sigh and chastise himself irritably. Of course, that would have been the perfect place to say for them to meet. Why hadn't he thought that up? annoyed with himself, he shook his head and shot back a reply.

[ sure that's fine. be there soon. ]

Stuffing the phone back into his apron, he went to getting the rest of the dough prepped to sit over night, before cleaning up and clocking out for the day. Stepping out of the bakery, he gave a mighty stretch over his head, smoothing his bangs aside when the thin apendages came back down. Glancing to the clock, he frowned when he realized he'd been five minutes late to getting off work sucessfully... he hated being late to arrangements. Quickly walking to the designated park, he looked around frantically for Hatch, more than prepared to apologize for his tardiness.

When he rolled to a stop in the park, he looked around nervously. Mako wasn’t there yet... Was he really going to show? Hatch shook his head roughly. Why think like that? Probably just a little behind! Sighing, he propped the bike up against a tree and stretched out on his back, arms out from his sides and legs straight down, enjoying lying in the sun. His eyes would peek open from time to time to look around, and he grinned when the other teen appeared. “Mako!” he called happily, waving an arm as he pushed himself up to stand.

Hearing his name, he jumped a little, not used to hearing it in such a joyful tone. Usually it was in a harsh one, being yelled at, or reprimanded of some kind by coworkers or bosses... Seeing Hatch after a moment, he stilled, and stiffened some, smoothing out his appearance as best he could, lips pressing, and hands clutching tight to his messanger strap across his chest as he hurried over with brisk little steps. Getting close enough to the other, he kept his gaze averted, clearing his throat, and adjusting his glasses in his usual nervous habit, "Sorry for being late. Work was annoying and let me out a bit later than usual." he mumbled, "Sorry to keep you waiting." his voice was a little less tight for the latter comment, but quicker. After a bit of a pause, he looked off, feeling awkward having normal interactions with someone without any sort of strings attached type of deal, "So... did you wanna go someplace first ,or....?" his voice trailed, lips pursing as he stared down at his cute little booties, toes turning inwards to poke the tips of the boots against one another, "I was gonna make us some dinner, or what ever. It's nothing great though, so I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to do or get something else!" he quickly included, trying to seem as blase about it as possible, and like he could care less.

His brow furrowed slightly as Mako hurried over with such a nervous posture. The apology made him smile, and he was about to dismiss it before recalling Mako’s attitude the other day. Stuff like this was important to the guy... Instead, he smiled and nodded. “Thank you.. but it’s fine. I wasn’t waiting long. I know jobs don’t always let us leave when we want them to.” Sticking his hands into his pockets, he looked back at his bike and smiled hopefully. “Actually, I brought along some chips and veggie dip. Since we’d need to get it refrigerated anyway, dinner’s as good a start as any.” He turned to pull his bike back up, and turned to give Mako a smile. “Lead the way~”

More than happy to soak up all of the doting that Hatch was laying down on him, Fountanne easily tipped his head as it was encouraged to, to earn the additional scratches and pets from those skilled fingers. And considering they were longer than Mako's they could reach further through his thick, fluffy, silken coat! He blinked a few times as he was shifted without his own doing, the blade like tail on his rear waving lightly in a delighted wag, "Sol~" he replied to Hatch calm, and smoothly, with deep undertones to his voice. A quite rich sound, indeed, and a lick to the young trainers nose was earned.

Nodding slowly, Mako agreed, stuffing the last of his pasta into his mouth, and letting his fork settle on the plate. Chugging back his water, he gave a long sigh, and sat back in his chair, staring up at his ceiling, "True.." he muttered, before letting his golden orbs slide back down to stare at Hatch and Fountanne... snorting lightly. The Absol was going to be so spoiled by Hatch... Crossing his arms, he looked to the small window to the side, in the living room, "Yeah, there's some better places closer to where I work. But they're a little pricey.." he mumbled, "could probably pay it, though... so long as I don't lose this job too." he snorted again, irritably. It was then that his brows furrowed deeply, and he gave a small irritated groan with himself, standing suddenly, and picking up his dishes, "Maybe you shouldn't find a place with someone like me. I mean, I'm always losing jobs cause of stupid bosses who don't like my personality. I wouldn't want to put you out, or anything, especially since your'e so nice and all." he grumbled, frustrated with himself, as he marched to the kitchen to put his finished plates away. And surely Hatch would get tired of his personality... there was a reason he didn't have friends, and lived alone, and got fired from every job he'd managed to get.

With one hand still petting Fountanne, he felt himself calm back down more and more. As he lifted the last bite to eat, he sighed contently. At least Mako had been able to get the yelling to stop. Now, it was again a pleasant visit with- ..His brow rose as Mako marched off, and then knit slightly. He cradled Fountanne and stood, putting the absol back onto the seat before taking his plates to follow. “Maybe we should look for a place closer to the water then. If your dream is to be out on the ocean, then you need to start working near it and living near it. Doesn’t matter for me, since I go where the injured are. The clinic still wouldn’t be a bad ride for me. I know on the water is expensive, but it’d be okay if we went somewhere without a water view. That alone would cut the price down for us, and I’m willing to bet you’d like it better to live closer to the water.” He smiled playfully and nudged Mako with his elbow lightly, “and I’ll judge if I can handle living with you for myself, Mr. Personality~”

Turning on the water, it gave a hiss as it rushed out, the stream wimpy, and oddly shaped... certainly not strong either. Pulling out the sponge, he soaped it up, and began scrubbing firmly at the plates... more than necessary, at that. Hearing Hatch mentioning the water though made his strength lessen some, and a glance spared towards the other teen. By... the water... that did cost a lot. Even the small beach houses were insanely expensive. If only the guys at the dock would let him work there. But nooo. He was too small, and too weak, in their eyes. What did they know?! Taking Hatch's plate, he began to scrub it too, pout formed on his face as he mulled over the new information the healer brought to the table, "That... would be nice..." he agreed stubbornly, under his breath. But he didn't want to be the reason that their cost was higher for a place. Looking over from the nudge, he frowned at Hatch, before his features relaxed a little, and he gave a small, very faint, amused snort. Emile peeked out from behind the curtain that was Mako's ponytail, giving a quick glare to Hatch in the process too.

"Well, I guess somewhere closer would be nice. But we don't have to get one with a view. I don't want to be spending more on innecessities like that, just for something for me." he stated firmly, turning off the water, and moving on to drying. "I know there's some places a little past the bakery and Poke Center that are kinda closer to the water... but not directly next to it. Could maybe look there." he quietly suggested... perhaps even a bit shyly.

Fountanne stretched and yawned as he was now free to himself, but trotted on after Hatch, brushing himself against the others legs to make sure he was aware of his presence, before sniffing around for any scraps.

“Exactly. Near the water, but not on it. That would be nice, and I bet we could do it.” Hatch grinned and bent to give Fountanne another little skritch before straightening up again. He was getting excited! Perhaps it was a bit preemptive of him, but he couldn’t help it. Striking out finally... Getting free... He leaned against the counter, head tilting back slightly. “Let’s see... I’ll be at the Center all day tomorrow... What about this weekend? You free to do some looking?”

Drying off the last plate, he felt himself getting a little excited too by the prospect of leaving the current dump he was stuck in, and into a better place. And.. Hatch seemed like a decent guy, so maybe it wouldn't all fall into shambles like the previous ones. Placing the dried plate atop the other, he dried his own hands now, nodding in agreement, "I work morning shifts on the weekends, so should be free in the evenings." he confirmed. Fidgeting a little with the over sized sleeves on his shirt, he shifted his weight too, feeling a little uncomfortable with how at ease he was starting to feel. "I'll check the papers tomorrow at work, too, to see if any openings are listed." he quickly added on, straightening up, "we'll be seeing each other every day, it looks like. Tomorrow at your clinic for Sharza, and then your house for post check ups, and then looking at the apartments.." he mumbled, voice trailing, "I guess if any time would show how unbearable I can be, I guess this would be it." he grumped, arms crossing.

Evenings. That would be fine. He could look in the papers in the mornings and lay out a plan for them to follow! “Sounds good.” When the fact of their continued presence together the rest of the week was pointed out, his brow rose curiously. Mako was right. “Cool. I’m excited to see how Sharza’s doing,” he confirmed with a nod. He paused a moment at the final statement, his own arms crossing slowly while he thought. “Well, that street goes both ways, right? You might find you can’t stand being around me so much~” he mused, looking over at Mako with a rather matter-of-fact expression. “Though, I suppose this would be a good time to make sure our pokemon can handle being together as well. Is it okay if I bring out Zhira and Tulip?”

With this new piece of information brought to light, Mako blinked a few times with mild shock, before looking to Hatch with a few firm nods of agreement. Why hadn't he thought of that before? That was a key necessity if they were to be living together. "I can't bring out everyone, since... well Flua would destroy the apartment, and probably get stuck... but we can let them meet him and Sharza on the beach." he confirmed. Reaching for Emile who was trying to keep hidden, he held the little rodent on his arm, "I guess this one will be the toughest challenge.." he mumbled, the Emolga glaring instantly at Hatch as he was exposed, and turning his rump towards the other trainer. Pressing his lips, Mako shook his head and sighed lightly, "Just takes awhile for him to warm up to others.. if at all..."

Fountanna perked up at the mention of other Pokemon, trotting back over to Hatch and staring up at him expectantly, head cocking even in an inquisitive gesture.

A soft laugh sounded as the pokemon turned around on him. “We already know that he and Zhira aren’t exactly buddies. Maybe Zhira will get along a little better with Fountanne?” Kneeling down, he pulled out a pokeball and held it out for Fountanne to see. “This is my meowth, Zhira. He can be a bit persnickety, but he does like your trainer already.” With that, he let Zhira out.... only to have the meowth be curled up in a tight, grumpy ball. Hatch looked at him a moment before he sighed. “Okay. He’s gonna be that way about it.” Zhira wasn’t a fan of being inside his pokeball for too long. “Fine. Tulip can make friends while you sit and mope.” The second pokeball was pulled out for Fountanne to inspect before letting out the little bellsprout.

“Bell!” Tulip chirped, immediately darting around the little apartment to look it over.

Nodding in agreement, he watched the introduction, curious by the step by step method used. Fountanne sniffed delicately at the presented balls, patiently waiting for the Pokemon to be produced. Staring at Zhira first, he sniffed towards the feline, and watched him for awhile. But due to the disgruntled manner the Meowth was in, the Absol didn't bother it further. When Tulip was brought out, however, he perked up with surprise by the burst of energy the tiny plant had, trotting after her a little to watch her zip about the small aparment. His tail gave a small twitch, before he settled to a seated position to watch her explore the place, only to moments later ease into a laying position, and give a contented yawn.

Kneeling, Mako got to Zhira's level, reaching out to pet the beautiful coat, "So even you can be grumpy, huh?" he muttered tot he Meowth. Emile gave a displeased squeak and darted up Mako's arm as he got closer to his rival, diving behind the trainers neck to hide away from the invasion. Glancing towards Tulip, Mako also watched her as he caressed Zhira, "She looks like she's doing well." he commented approvingly, pleased to see the Bellsprout lively, and more comfortable than their first meetings.

Zhira remained in a tight little ball, quite put off at having been left in the pokeball for so long. Not only that, he was now stuck in a room with that annoying emolga! The nerve of his trainer! Yet, when he gained Mako’s attention, his ears perked, and he turned his head just enough to look over at the human with the edge of his vision. Well, he did like this trainer... and the guy was paying attention to him. He was tickled to see Emile’s displeasure, and that was enough to encourage him to allow himself to open up a little. Purr rising, he nuzzled the hand petting him and gave it a small lick.

Hatch smirked and shook his head at Zhira’s behavior. “Brat~” he muttered with amusement under his breath. “Tulip! Be careful!” He jumped forward to grab a lamp the buzzing Bellsprout had nearly tipped over and sighed. “If you don’t calm down, you’re going back into the ball.” He looked over at Mako and nodded. “Yeah. She’s opened up even more. I.. took your advice, about helping her to train for more than just helping with the gentler things... She’s been enjoying having that outlet.”

Tulip was too excited to pay attention to Hatch. It was a new place! She stuttered to a halt in front of the absol, her blossom cocking curiously. A moment later, she was climbing onto Fountanne and curling her roots into the thick fur to settle just as contently, inspecting this new pokemon up close.

As the Meowth began to unfurl from his tightly, unhappy ball, Mako was able to stroke more of that lovely coat, and gave the little coin fixed on the cats brow a little stroke with his thumb too. He had a bit of a fondness for Zhira. He couldn't really put his finger on why, but there was some familiarity about him that interested the petite trainer. Emile, of course, was NOT at all happy to see the Meowth starting to warm right up to his trainer. Growling, "Emol....." irritably, he snorted, and dove under Mako's shirt to find a place to burrow, in the overflowing, oversized cloth.

Fountanne was content to watch the going-ons with the additional Pokemon about, a bit surprised by the surge of energy that was Tulip darting about the place. And he'd thought Emile had a lot of energy! When the plant returned to him, he remained calm, sniffing at her a little, before lifting his head upright as she began to scale up his body, and grip at his fur. With a big grin stretched on his lips, the Absol closed his eyes contently, rather enjoying the little massage the roots provided.

Snorting quietly in amusement, Mako watched the pair interact, having tensed slightly at the sight of the lamp nearly falling. But Hatch was quick, thankfully. "Good to hear." he paused, looking to Hatch, "Looks like she's going to be a handful, with all that energy." he mused, "How's she feel about water? er... a lot of it, I guess. Flua's pretty energetic at times." while the two Pokemon were vastly different in multiple ways, the Milotic would probably be thrilled to have someone to play with. "He can always play on land, though."

Zhira cracked an eye open to peek up at the irate emolga, tail giving a pleased twitch. If Emile was unhappy, then he was content as could be. Unfurling more, he laid his head onto his paws to stretch out contently, purr rumbling soft but consistent under the welcome attention.

Hatch nodded. “She already is~” he replied with a chuckle. The mention of water made his head c**k slightly. “Well, I’m not really sure. She’s okay when we go to the beach, but she’s never gone into the deeper parts. Sticks to the shallows with me.” The mention of Flua made him smile. “I bet she’d like that.”

Tulip’s roots traveled through Fountanne’s fur gently but curiously. This pokemon was sitting much more still than the meowth she’d tried climbing before. It was a nice change. And the fur was so thick and soft! The roots explored a little more, rising up to lightly scritch behind Fountanne’s ears, and inspect the blade on his head.

His other hand came around to gently scratch the Meowth's cheek, just under the ear, a very faint smile lifting on his lips as the purr began to join in the conversation. Peeking back at Tulip, Mako pondered a moment, lips pursing, and eyes narrowing, "I guess going in deep water could be dangerous for something so small as her." he mentioned under his breath, mostly thinking aloud. Maybe she'd be interested in doing so once she played with Flua on land. After all, the large leviathan could carry her out into the large water, and procure a pool of sorts for her even, that wasn't too uncomfortably deep.

Fountanne hummed a little "Soollll~" under his own breath, to show his pleasure of the roots handiwork along his fur, head tilting towards their scritches. Shaking his head, Mako smiled even a little more, "Looks like they'll probably be pals, then, at least." it was in that moment that an idea struck him. Blinking a moment, surprised by himself, he gave Zhira a parting scratch, before standing upright. There was a sagging bulge on his back where the Emolga had nested under his shirt, which tightened up when the trainer stood. Digging into the bowl of the pasta and veggies, he pulled out a few of the raw veg and walked over to Hatch, bending to offer him some, "I think... maybe if you start offering treats and stuff to Emile, he might start coming around." he frowned, "Maybe... at least... it sorta... kinda worked with another trainer, once." he paused again, shrugging, "In.. a way." it was a long shot, but.. it might be for the better if they tried to get Emile to warm up a little to what would probably be his new housemates. Besides, Mako didn't want to cause more issues for someone else.

When the attention left him, Zhira huffed a little, but wasn’t as grumpy as before. He stood, stretched, and walked over to leap gracefully onto to small couch to curl up and relax.

Looking over at the offered tidbits, Hatch smiled hopefully. Mako wanted Emile to get along... Maybe Mako really didn’t mind the idea of them living together! As Mako kept elaborating on the success of the last trainer who had tried to befriend Emile, he sighed and ran a hand through his hair. “That’s very reassuring..” he murmured playfully, cocking his head to look at the lump of shirt that Emile was hiding in. “Emile... Would you like something to eat? ..I have a couple veggies you can have.”

Tulip had eventually settled and relaxed atop Fountanne. However, she heard “treats” and perked right back up, slipping off of the absol and scurrying over to stare up at Mako. “Bellsprout!”

Fountanne perked up as the Bellsprout scurried from the confines of his fur, and off to join the two trainers again, resting his head back onto his paws to continue relaxing.

Emile perked up slightly at the mention of treats. The swell in Mako's shirt shifted around, crawling up the small trainers back to pop out a little head from the back of the collar, large ears twitching, nose wiggling. Staring at the offered treats, his eyes narrowed, before leaning closer, climbing up onto Mako's shoulder. He warily watched Hatch, giving him sharp glares all the while... but he still moved forward. But when Tulip came forward, he hunched, and pressed to Mako's neck, nose wrinkling, "Emol...." he growled lowly, at the threat to his treats!

He felt a flicker of hope as Emile began to shift around, stifling the laugh that wanted to rise. Seeing the bulge rise and move under Mako’s shirt was almost like something from a horror movie! He held the treats up so that they could be plainly seen. Not a trap or trick. Just treats. When Tulip hurried over, Hatch glanced down and sighed, nudging her with his foot gently. “These aren’t for you, Tulip. You have treats at home that you can have when we get back. You have to wait though. If you keep begging, you won’t get them.”

Tulip gave Hatch a rather indignant look before turning to march back to Fountanne, returning to her place on top of him with her roots coiling firmly, turning the back of her blossom to the humans.

Hatch gave Emile an apologetic smile. “Don’t worry. I know these are for you.” His hand inched a little bit closer, to where Emile could reach them if he left the vicinity of Mako’s neck

Watching the Bellsprout get chastised and shooed away, Emile glared at her, not appreciating his treats being threatened! Glancing back to Hatch, sizing him up again, he returned to sniffing cautiously at the outstretched treats, taking a few more small steps further onto Mako's shoulder for a better inspection. When his little nose was just nearly touching the treats, warily glancing to Hatch's face, fingers, then the offered food, he made a quick snatch of the treats, and quickly pulled back to curl around behind Mako's neck, popping up on the other shoulder to sit and start nibbling on the snack as rodents do.

Smirking, Mako rose a brow, looking from the corner of his eye at the Emolga, "Well.. I guess that's... something." it was a step, not a huge progressive one, but one nontheless. He'd gotten closer to Hatch without biting him, or shocking him, so that was a plus. "Hopefully more repetition will help."

Fountanne slowly lifted his head as Tulip rejoined him, turning it to peek at the disgruntled flower with an amused grin of his own. Leaning down, he gave her a light lick on the top of her bulb in reassurance.

The lightning quick snag of the veggies made him blink in surprise, and then brought up a chuckle. “Reminds me of when you offered that pokeball to Tulip. She wasn’t too sure at first, either~” he said, looking back at the sulking plant. Watching Emile snacking on the treats, he smiled lightly. A step was a step; especially concerning someone who disliked you.

Tulip gave a squeak when the lick came, the sensation very new to her. Blossom cocking slightly, she leaned forward to give Fountanne’s cheek a curious nuzzle.

Raising a hand, Mako scritched underneath the little Emolga's chin, gaining a few wet particles of veggie on the finger tip in the process, "that's true.." he murmured, "Thanks for... not getting upset with him, or anything.." he mumbled quietly, watching as Emile feasted away on the veggies til they were totally gone. The rodent went on to grooming himself fervently, and rapidly, from tiny paws, to wiping his face, and even raising his paws up over his ears to clean behind there too. "He may not look it, or act it, but he's actually really sweet, and stuff." Mako assured, shrugging, "Just misunderstood."

Fountanne gave a chuckle like growl when the Bellsprout reacted to his brush of comfort, blinking curiously when the gentle nuzzle was returned back. Closing his eyes, he kept still for the tiny sprout, a small "Sol~" murmured in appreciation.

He cocked his head, wondering why Mako would have thought he’d get mad, but rather than question it, he just nodded. “No problem.” It was quite adorable to watch Emile clean up after the snack. As Mako elaborated on Emile’s personality, he couldn’t help staring a moment before chuckling lightly. “Yeah? I know a few people like that~” Grinning, he turned to head for the couch and sat next to Zhira, scratching the top of the feline’s head. “Hey. I brought you out to make friends, not sit here by yourself.”

Zhira cracked an eye open, huffed, and jumped down from the couch. However, rather than go try being nice with Fountanne, he helped himself to trotting down the short hallway to find the bedroom and hopped up to get comfortable on one of Mako’s pillows.

“Zhira..” Hatch groaned as the meowth strutted off down the hall. He would have chased after, but he didn’t want to barge into where Mako’s bedroom probably was. Standing in front of the couch, he looked over at Mako apologetically. Is it okay if he goes back there? He’s probably just going to sleep.”

Tulip’s sour mood naturally did not last long. The absol was making happy noises, so why should she be upset? Forgetting about the rejected treats, she settled on giving Fountanne more nuzzles. “Bell, bellsprout~” she cooed back softly.

With a small nod, he headed on down the hall to go after his snobbity little meowth. He tried to not look around too much, but he couldn’t help it in the bedroom. Everything was decorated around Mako’s dream... It was the best thing he’d ever seen! He walked over to the bed and sighed. Zhira was curled up in a ball right in the pile of plushed pokemon. “You fit right in, you lazy thing,” he teased, earning a slight eyes crack open. “Come on. We’re getting ice cream.”
Finally, Zhira yawned, sloooooooowly stretched each leg, gave his ears and tail a few flicks, and then hopped onto Hatch’s shoulder to perch on.

“You’re too big for one shoulder,” he pouted, waiting for the meowth to stretch out more comfortably across his shoulders instead. Skritching Zhira’s ears, he headed back out to the main room. “Sorry, Tulip, but you’re going back into your ball for the trip. I don’t want you tearing up Mako’s apartment, and I can’t have you stealing everyone’s ice cream either.”

The bellsprout looked up with a rather disappointed expression, but slid off of Fountanne’s back reluctantly. She vanished into her pokeball, which was tucked safely into the pack.

With everything sorted in the kitchen, he glanced down to the Absol, and Bellsprout duo who'd started to bond. No surprise, given that Fountanne was overly friendly and tolerant. Really... his trainer could learn a thing or two from him. With Emile climbing back up onto his shoulder, giving a concerned nosing to the petite travelers cheek, Mako snorted softly, and pulled his bag back over his shoulder in preperation to go. When Hatch and Zhira returned, he gave them a side glance, before looking to Tulip as she was returned to her Poke Ball. "Hold down the fort, Fountanne." he muttered idly to the dark type, that rubbed against his legs in passing, as Mako headed to the door. He looked back to make sure Hatch was following, waiting for him to come out, lock the door behind them, before leading the way. Tapping down the stairs, he squinted up at the setting sun, brows furrowing farther than needed, "Hopefully his stands still out..." the usual ice cream man by the park did stay into the night, since it was also a nice place to hang out at, given the scenery, the perfect view of the stars... well, it was a hotspot for some dates, and youths with their romantic interests.

Slinging his pack over one shoulder, making Zhira adjust a little so the strap went under the feline, he followed readily. He watched Mako a moment before pushing the inquiries from his mind. If it caused such a reaction, it wasn’t his place to know yet. Leaving his bike, he walked alongside Mako and stretched his arms, making Zhira grip his shirt slightly to stay in place. “Good evening for a walk,” he observed, a small smile rising. Even if the ice cream stand was closed, he would consider it worth the walk. After all, aside for the brief awkward moments, he was quite enjoying spending time with the guy that he hoped would become his friend...

He was a bit distracted now, from the question, which left his expression looking rather vacant. But once Hatch spoke up, he blinked to refresh himself, and looked around them, then to the sky. Yes... it was really nice, this evening... "This towns lucky for their nice weather." he added on in agreement, "not many days you'll see it overcast, or having crazy storms." Emile peeked out from behind Mako's hair to also take a look around, admiring the beautiful sky that was painted with magenta's, pinks, purples, and blues, fading from the dark navy that was encroaching. But as soon as he saw Zhira not too far off, he instantly ducked back in with a displeased "Emol..!"

Looking over to Hatch, from the corner of his eyes, Mako adjusted his glasses, and cleared his throat, "It's not something I really talk about... at all. Or have, to anyone." he muttered, in a late, and delayed response to the topic that'd caused the slight hiccup in their time spent together. While it only seemed fair he answer Hatch back, since had answered too, he wasn't... sure he was ready yet. As they followed the lazily winding path in the park, him moving to avoid a few couples that were out and about, giggling and holding hands, and smooching, he was able to spot the small ice cream stand just ahead, making him perk up a little, "Ever get stuff from here?" he asked idly, reaching into his pocket, to finger through his Pokeyen again.

Nodding along, he reached up to idly pet Zhira’s silky tail. Mako’s comment made him look over, needing a moment to realize what the other teen was talking about, and then smiled lightly. “You don’t have to explain anything that you don’t want to,” he replied. While it wasn’t as though he told everyone about the rocky relationships at home, he’d somehow felt comfortable enough to tell Mako back at the apartment. Hopefully Mako didn’t think him a sap or something... When the ice cream stand was pointed out, he shook his head. “I don’t think so.” He copied Mako’s motions, pulling out an old wallet to pick through and see what he had to spend.

It felt nice, just hearing Hatch's confirmation. He already knew that, but... it was still nice to hear. A small nod was made in a means of thanks, sparing one more glance to the other trainer before stepping up to the ice cream stand. It was one of those wheelable ones, with a cloth top that kept the sun from beating down on the frozen food during the day. The owner manning it gave a wide smile to the youths, noticing Mako right away. He was an older gentleman, heavy set, with plenty of hair from head to toes, "Evenin', boys! What can I getcha then? We've got it all!" he gestured to the plastic covering that kept the ice creams contained, but revealed their flavors. Colours were vibrant, and the flavors ranged from simple to exotic mixtures from different berries across the land. Frowning, Mako looked along the options rather seriously, as though it were such a huge decision weighing on him. Finally, he placed a finger on one of the labels for the ice cream, the name perhaps a bit too extravagant than need be. 'Luvdisc's Sour Suprise!'... the man had a way with cheesy names, that was clear. But he got to work scooping out the bright pink and vibrant yellow mixed ice cream, packing it firmly onto a plain cone, looking to Hatch once in awhile while doing so, "And what about you, m'boy?"

He leaned over with Mako to check out the various flavors. There were some wild sounding flavors... He wasn’t sure he was adventurous enough for some of them... He waffled a little between flavors before settling on one. “I’ll just have the Diglet Delight,” he replied, which was essentially chocolate ice cream with chocolate chips throughout. He took his cone once it was filled, paid, thanked the vendor, and took a small bite. It really was good! “Good suggestion~” he praised, taking a larger bite soon after. “Been a while since I’ve had ice cream.”

With his cone in possession, he turned it a few times to look at the various sides, and the vibrant colours dancing with one another. There were even a few chunks of their designated berry here and there! Emile peeked his tiny head out too from behind Mako's to sniff daintily at the frozen treat, to which the trainer lifted the cone a little higher for the rodent to get an even better inspection. After a few more twitches of that fast moving nose, a n** was given to the ice cream, dislodging a chunk of berry, before retreating back to the curtain of hairs cover. Now it was Mako's turn. He lifted the ice cream to his face, tongue flickering out to stroke along the cold contents, quite pleased with the electrifying sour and sweet that coated his tongue. A perfect combo! With their orders done and paid for, Mako gave a small nod of his head, and tilted it briefly in a 'come on' gesture to continue down the pathway, "really? I get it a lot during the summer. Usually after taking everyone to the beach." he commented, between licks of his ice cream.

He watched Mako share with Emile, smiling lightly. That was cute. He glanced over at Zhira, who simply cracked an eye, yawned, and laid his head back down. “Lazy bum,” he teased. Walking alongside the other teen, he shook his head. “My parents never got it for at home, so I guess I just never really thought about it. It was more a snack for when we went out than as a regular treat.” He licked at a dribble of the ice cream as it tried to sneak down the cone, and sighed contently. “Do the others like ice cream, too, or is it only Emile who picks at it?”

He couldn't help shooting a look of mild disbelief to his new companion, brow crooked and all. Snorting softly with amusement, he shook his head, "That's a first.." he murmured. His attention veered off to watch as a trainer walked by with their Galvantula, intrigued by the rather intricate markings and colours of the bug/electric type, before he looked back ahead of them, stopping only once they reached the street on the other side of the park. Watching cars wizz by, he glanced at his shoulder to where he could just barely see little Emile hidden in his peripheral vision, "Fountanne doesn't care for it much. But Flua seems to enjoy it." he snorted again with faint amusement, "though it's hard to get enough for him to be considered more than just a sampling..." the cone they had would be like a single drop to the Milotic! licking the frozen treat consistently, he looked up at the sky, before side glancing to Hatch, "Have a time you need to start heading back home?"

The disbelief surprised him, and actually made him chuckle lightly. “I grew up in a bubble~” he explained playfully. There was much of the world he hadn’t had the chance to experience yet. While he wasn’t all that interested in getting out to see the world, seeing a little more than his parent’s apartment was desired. He smiled as the tastes of the pokemon were laid out. “I know Tulip enjoys it. The little bit she had encouraged her to eat mine, too. Hence, why she’s in her pokeball~” he snorted and took another lick of his treat. Head tilting, he looked at his watch and shook his head. “No, not really. I don’t work at the clinic until late tomorrow morning. You?”

The guy must have been telling the truth, if he hadn't had ice cream all that much. What a shame. But he wasn't all that surprised to learn of Tulips love for ice cream, snorting lightly in response, "I'd guess she'd try anything, if she can fit it into her petals, huh?" he wagered, giving Hatch a sidelong glance. When the coast was clear to cross the road, his head also tilted to get at an edge portion that was beginning to droop from all the ice cream he'd scooped from just one side. Sparing a peek at the watch that Hatch checked, he licked up the rest of the side he'd tended to, before shaking his own head, "No, not really." Looking off, he gazed into the distance where the beach lay, "We could head to the beach, for awhile. The sun set's really nice there." he suggested... before fiddling with adjusting his glasses quickly afterwards, upon realizing how that might have sounded, "I mean, it's nice to see the waves, and stuff." he quickly added, in an almost defensive kinda tone. Didn't want the other trainer getting the wrong idea, or anything after all!

Mako’s surmising of Tulip’s antics brought out an open laugh. “Pretty much!” Tulip was such a silly little thing... Mako wanted to go to the beach? ..Did that mean he was enjoying their time together? Maybe they really would become friends then! He blinked with surprise at the suddenly defensive stature, and then smiled. “Sounds good to me!” he replied brightly. Dinner, ice cream, and a trip to the beach with his new friend? ..What more could a guy ask for?

It was too bad he hadn't brought Flua's Poke Ball with him... but it was no matter. The Milotic was taken out everyday, and would be brought out tomorrow. With the decision made, he nodded and began to guide them there. As they left the boarder of the streets and pavement, he could see there were a few people on the bach already, playing a game of volleyball, and running about. They looked to bea bout he and Hatch's age range, all in swimsuits of different kinds. Wrinkling his nose a little, Mako trudged on, tiny booties sinking into the sand as they hit the unstable grounding. Emile poked his head out when they hit a change of scenery, sniffing about, and eyeing the strangers on the horizon. He too expressed his dislike, squeaking in displeasure, before scurrying along Mako's shoulders to pop up on the other side and scan around there. Glancing to the rodent, Mako walked a little ways off from where the majority of the other teens were playing, feeling himself tense some when he noted that a pair were sharing a rather romantic moment by the rocks towards the back of the beach.

He stuffed the remaining bite of the cone into his mouth, wiping his hands onto his shorts. He looked over at the crowd, and then at Mako. The other teen’s distaste for the group was plain to see, and he wasn’t about to make a fuss. He wanted to finish Mako day with Mako! When he caught sight of the pair ‘hidden’ away, he blushed hotly and spun to face toward the water, keeping his back determinedly to the couple. “Looks like the beach is the place to be~” he observed with a little laugh, awkwardly dismissing the various scenes around them.

Zhira finally stirred as the sounds of the waves sloshing along the shore grew. His tail twitched contently, and his nose lifted slightly to sniff the breeze. While he wasn’t a big fan of the water, he did enjoy the beach... Even if an annoying emolga was there as well.

His own cone was flat along the top by now, but still contained some of the ice cream tucked away in the cones handle. But he continued to scoop out with his little tongue, taking his time on relishing the remaining bit inside. Hatch's comment made him give a small grunt of disapproval, "Normally it's not like this..." he grumbled, glaring towards the rowdy bunch of teens, as he found a nice spot in the sand to pop a squat, and sit. Plopping down on his rump, he crossed his legs, and little Emile scurried down his arm to take post onto one of the trainers knees. Sniffing around, he did a wide scan again. Normally, he'd take to the air for an aerial view... but with all the youths about, he felt it safer to stay within the safety of his caretakers vicinity.

But Mako's attention was to the sea, gazing at it like one would to a loved one. It was so calming, so soothing.... everything else could be shut out when the eb and flow of the live water was present. It also made him itch to go into the water, too... Annoyingly, his good mood was stunted quickly, when the volleyball from the game down the way came flying all the way over, and smacked into the sand right in front of where he sat, causing a spray of it to slap him right in the face. It covered and ruined the rest of his ice cream, and dirtied his glasses, clumps of it finding every crevice in his clothes...not to mention little Emile's pristine, glossy coat was doused in the stuff now too. The Emolga began to chatter loudly and with swelling rage, tiny body shaking briskly to get rid of the sand as best it could, sparks starting to flash from his cheeks... before a strong bolt shot out from his mini body, zapping the volleyball, popping it, and charring it black.