matias has never been one to shy away from what some may consider invasive questions. but he asks them to blur the line that separates them — a line that would otherwise always exist.[break][break]

"then let me ask you this," he reaches for the pot of tea to offer them a refill.[break][break]

after a quiet moment of pouring, he continues.[break][break]

"after all you've seen in this region—the ups and downs, the triumphs and failures—how do you remain hopeful?"

[attr="class","ooc"]BARNABY FINCH[break]

[attr="class","pkspr pkmn-virizion"]

With a small, polite smile Barnaby watched as Matias poured them both another cup of tea. Steam rose from the white porcelain, spreading the enticing scent across the table; still, the journalist didn't immediately grab the handle and take a sip.

Instead, he mulled over whether he should break from etiquette and insist on catching his ride home. Seconds passed, but in the end he couldn't help but concede to his ingrained decorum.

Barnaby picked up his cup and pressed the rim to his lips.

"It's not an easy thing to do, of course." He said quietly before taking a sip.

He couldn't be truthful, now could he?

I've put my faith in organizations outside of the League.

An answer like that would just lead to more probing questions.

"Much like you, the strength of Hoenn's citizens brings me hope. They continue to rally in the face of persistent adversity."

He lowered the teacup onto its saucer. The sound of the clinking porcelain was enough to cause Pepin to stir. Yawning widely, the little EEVEE began to stretch in Matias' lap, each of his tiny fingers splaying out as he did so.

MATIAS SILPH
mission: A STAR IS BORN

☉

"adversity. they used to be so much simpler. now, it can be a little confusing who we're persisting against exactly."[break][break]

the leading statement would eventually become clear as he continues after taking a small sip of his tea. he pays little attention to pepin, not minding how it stretches across his lap.[break][break]

"but there is one constant threat that has continued to plague regions. i'm curious, barnaby. what are your thoughts on team rocket?"

[attr="class","ooc"]BARNABY FINCH[break]

[attr="class","pkspr pkmn-virizion"]

"Pepin."

Barnaby beckoned softly and the EEVEE complied. Not, however, before placing a small goodbye lick to the back of Matias' hand. Then he was off, jumping down from one lap and into another.

While giving the little Evolution Pokémon some loving scritches between his ears, Barnaby briefly contemplated how he wanted to answer the Captain's question.

Eventually, he opted to take a more neutral stance.

“My thoughts are always the safety and betterment of Hoenn. If Rocket threatens that, then I am against their actions. If the League refuses to stand for that betterment, then I hold them to higher standards.”

Barnaby paused to finish the remainder of the tea in his cup. "I am a journalist, after all, Captain Silph. I can't allow bias to cloud my lens."

The teacup was then neatly placed back on its saucer.

"Now if you'll excuse me, I really should be going." He said, his tone apologetic as he stood to gather his things.

MATIAS SILPH
mission: A STAR IS BORN

☉