Seeing Matt Vice slowing down baffled Nico at first, and even brought him alarm. Why was he giving up? Was something ailing Nana? Upon seeing the spark in his paramours eyes, he could only imagine that Matthew was slowing down for their benefit... This thought was annoying at first, assuming they were being pitied, until the other rider suggested just having fun with the race. Even mentioning the after-race dinner they could take!

Damn it all, the man's dumb charming grin infected Nico with a grin of his own. "Yeah... Let's just enjoy it!" He'd agree, both final-place racers keeping each other's spirit's up.

Lilypad didn't have much speed to offer, but she did have plenty of energy. Hell, the goat wouldn't be opposed to going on a hike after this race! The downhill final stretch felt like a door opening to her, especially after effortlessly bounding down the destroyed ramp. Nico heard her snort, watched her throw her head forward, and braced himself for a leap. Her leaves shuffled and glowed once again with Growth, a glow that was impossible to notice under all of the lights shining on them. Lilypads sprinting occasionally broke into a long leap, clearing some of the path and relishing in the satisfying thuds against the track.

☉

Delicious, sweet, buttery, over-spiced corn~ Such a delight~

The imagery of the waterfall brought Nico out of his food-moment. Humming a bit in thought and swallowing his food before responding. ”That sounds nice. I don’t think I have a… a particular location in mind for the wedding.” He replied, keeping his tone light, though his voice hesitated upon trying to imagine the large crowd. Large crowds of anonymous people were a bit nerve-wracking… But a large crowd of people they knew?

”Yes, definitely.” Despite the slight dread he felt, he responded immediately, ”Ash will be my best man… JT is fitting, too.” Some family obligations went unspoken. While none of them may have been related by blood, the close bond their family shared uncovered important bonds between all of them. He needed his chosen family there that day. ”Josh and Isaac, huh? That sounds nice. Yeah, I like that!” Nico had no real issue with either one of them.

”It’s… gonna be a lot just to make the guest list…”

Matt Vice

☉

Setting up camp on top a cliff’s edge allowed for the best view in any extended hike. Nico’s camp was situated perfectly- the ledge was a mere 20 feet off the ground below, just barely tall enough to sit above the tree line. Numerous rocks jutted out beneath the edge. Too tall and slippery for a human to climb- but easy for most mountain-trailing Pokemon, like his Gogoat. Traveling through the trees on foot as opposed to lounging above the canopy was such a different world… With the bushy trees obscuring the sunlight, the world on the ground looked so dark and threatening. This perfect location was impossible to ignore- so he was quick to set up a camp as soon as the wonderful little spot was found. Nico would even wager that few campers knew of the spot since one needed to climb a steep cliffside or utilize a mountain scaling Pokemon. His Gogoat was at home here- currently laying across a sunbaked rock with her legs tucked neatly beneath her fur and leaves. After a long bout of riding, Lilypad was content to soak in the sun and relax.

Normally, Nico would have returned home. But this spot… It called to him. Every breeze that ruffled his hair carried a promising whisper. The air tasted sweet up here. Nothing suffocated him.

He was serious about claiming the spot. For a solid two hours Nico had been engulfed in an energetic swirl of activity. Two large, sturdy-looking tents already sat with a large firepit marking the center. A locked (fireproof) storage chest had been set up, quite literally containing everything they had- sprayed down heavily with Repel though, so they had to move the crate further away from the center of camp for the comfort of their Pokemon. Tucked securely into the rock wall and obscured with a convenient, thick bush. Several rugged-looking cooking pans were stacked neatly by the fireplace as well, and Nico himself sat on the ground next to them, rifling through his hiking bag. A series of different bagged herbs and spices were laid out across the ground next to him. Matt Vice had been sent out to obtain firewood- and lots of it. Nico intended to cook tonight.

Just then, a buzzing from his phone stole his attention. Aki Kumori 's name made him quirk a brow, as a flashback of memories back through him… Just one hour ago, he’d texted her amid his excitement. Eagerly babbling about how great his new camp location was, how she should come visit-

Then his eyes went wide with realization, pursing his lips as he recalled his latest text. You should come visit! It’s really close by, right here. He had sent her the location.

…Did she really try to come all the way out here, alone?

Immediately, he answered the phone. Not even having time to say anything before she announced hat she was lost.

”Ohffffff- okay, no problem, Lilypad and I will come get you! Uhh.” Nico stood and whirled around, staring out over the huge canopy of trees… ”…Think you might know where exactly you are?”

Aki Kumori

☉

For a second there, Nico thought he was going to die. Not from space. Not from the meteor or a legendary pokemon attack- but from a giant hand.

Turns out, the panic was entirely unneeded.

Both he and his boyfriend panicking didn't seem to stop the God-hand. Both were grabbed, then safely placed down- er, well, Nico in particular was tossed down and luckily avoided major injury. Nico barely could process the confusing safety in the midst of all the panic (maybe apology cookies were in order for this God). His Pikachu could only stumble on the ground, dazed and bewildered. Feeling a difficult time breathing, he'd hastily reach up to take of his helmet, suddenly very aware of numerous bumps, scrapes, and dents over the equipment... But Matt Vice surging up to embrace him was a most welcome distraction from this observation.

Then, a wave of ice descended upon them before Nico could return any affections. "Shit, shit..."

Once again, his slightly injured Typhlosion was sent out. She shook out her fur, before hissing in acknowledgement as Nico gave the order. "Use Flamethrower along with the rockslide!" It may have been a hasty move... But he hoped the combo would create a decent barrier. Nico even remembered to quickly put his helmet back on.

His Pikachu stuck close, maintaining a Light screen in the hopes of blocking some of the icy damage.

Matt Vice

☉

Oops, dead last...

Nico was glad to see Matthew speeding ahead, grinning at his boyfriend and trying not to look at the standings... He figured the lack of risk taking and racing experience meant this was a logical outcome. Inevitable, really.

...Let's just finish this one, he'll leave the future races to the real pros!

For the moment, he used his Gogoats endurance to slide down the steep slope of the ramp that got destroyed by the snake 'mons.

☉

As dreaded, violence exploded all around them. Though Nico and Matthew didn't take part in the fight, the Deoxys they had awoken was promptly bombarded with attacks- alongside it bombarding all of them as well. The last thing he wanted was to attack this Pokemon they had disturbed, yet there was little choice in what they could do regardless. The space Pokemon unleashed wave after wave of attack before the duo could react in time, and before Nico could see or say a word... A mutual understanding ran through both Tekka and Dagger. Even as one of Dagger's empowered Aura Sphere's managed to clip the fox.

She growled in pain and irritation, shaking off the hit and focusing her glare not on Dagger, but on the Deoxys. While her trainer could pity the creature, Tekka only felt threatened. No spite or resentment was thrown toward the Lucario as she met his eyes, a realization passing through her yellow hues as she fixed her gaze on Nico. With no way left to protect him, she was out of options.

Assured that Dagger would take care of Matthew, Tekka sped back to Nico in a flash, the blond still stunned by the dazzling, overbearing battles going on around them. A smirk graced her muzzle, irritation seeping away as an uncharacteristic, loud purr came from the fox, getting Nico's attention just as she leaped in his way.

Then it happened.

The move collided with Tekka, Nico was horrified to see his once-wild and seemingly unstoppable alpha 'mon thrown to the side, dangerously wounded.

She was the only reason he was alive in that moment.

The dreadfully horrible slow-motion scene ended abruptly, and Nico snapped back to reality as he urgently took out her Pokeball, recalling the K/O'd dark-type. "Tekka, I..." No time for thoughts or words, as the meteor was practically splitting apart around them. The space all around was blowing up. It was insanity how Nico could count legendaries all over, not to mention the crystalizing Pokemon firing off attacks from all sides!

Fortunately, it was easy enough to focus on Matthew. The ever-faithful fiance had brought out Nana literally beneath their feet, and they sped away from the chaos before attempting to fly away on Matthew's Pidgeot. For Nico's part, he'd send out Juvon, the fuzzy Pikachu bursting out and immediately latching onto his trainer's space suit, clinging tightly. "Ready your Light Screen!" Nico ordered, as the electric-type ready'd a Light Screen to block the next special attack.

Several voices had called through his communication link. Though Nico had remained muted on the channel the entire time, he heard the countdown, and even the subsequent advice to not be afraid of a literal hand reaching out to grab them. "The fu- THE FUCK-" The blond latched tightly onto Matt's back when he saw kim cole-essam 's Hoopa's hand, just as instructed. Nico proceeded to freak out at the sight, just as NOT instructed.

Despite all the chaos though, a brilliant display unveiled for them to see. Rayquaza's attack had blown the crystal apart, and though they all may have gotten swept out up in the fray, pieces still came to surge by. An instinctive Pokeball tossing arm reached out to try and catch a piece.

Matt Vice

☉

Nico nodded a little sadly in response, glad to know they were both on the same page. It would’ve been a sweet notion if Torolf had given Matt permission, even if they weren’t exactly traditional, the thought would’ve been nice. Yet he was relieved that Matt wisely avoided that confrontation. ”Oh? You did ask them? That’s really sweet.” Involving his sister and grandpa Tronious was a perfect substitute. Nico almost wished he’d been there to see their faces!

Then the corn was mentioned. Nico couldn’t help gasping a bit dramatically, eyes going wide. Stacie did make the best corn on the cob! One of the cobs was snatched up and already being devoured. Butter, pinches of salt and garlic, green onions… It was perfection. ”Mmmnnhh… I guess you aren’t wrong about Aki… She is gonna help out in the wedding. It’ll be nice to have her helping out… Ash too.” Nico murmured in between bites. Deciding to avoid the topic of his dad for a little while longer, following Matts lead.

”You got anything you want to happen at a wedding? I’m not really that picky, but remind me if there’s anything important we gotta include.”

Matt Vice

☉

”They did?! Awwh…” Nico couldn’t be smiling any bigger than he was now, returning Matthew’s smooth and seemingly content to just cling to his now-fiance. Though seeing the dinner was a good reminder of more pleasantry ahead, murmuring a thanks to his love for pulling a seat out for him. Almost a bit sad to see him sitting across the table rather than next to him- though feeling his foot made him happy to know they were thinking the same.

Looking over the dinner and still smelling the lovely rose petals… Nico could hardly believe how happy he was with all this. Even if the thought of a wedding gave him mixed thoughts… It didn’t matter. He would be happy being with Matthew for the rest of his life.

”Hnnmmm….” He hummed as he reached up to pick up the wine glass, simply sniffing the liquid at first. Wine or alcohol in general wasn’t something Nico indulged in too often, but a drink was perfect for a special event. ”I’m sure we’ll figure out something really fun for the wedding.” Nico replied, sounding as if he was making an effort to be positive. ”We can take our time planning it, too…” He trailed off, pondering over the logistics of such an event… They both had such a huge family to plan around…

”…I wonder… how Dad will react…” The inevitable was finally voiced. Although they hadn’t really hidden their relationship from Torolf, Nico also hadn’t directly told his father either…

Matt Vice

☉

Nico was giggling and absolutely delighted as he was swung around. Having a strong fiancé brought many perks! Being smothered just left him so happy, his face heating up with blushes. He almost didn’t notice the happy tears he blinked away. ”I would never say no-!” Nico was practically blurting this out the same time Matt spoke-

Until both stopped at the sound of a camera…. ”Huh..?” Nico went blank faced as Aki suddenly went rushing by. Exiting the kitchen and proceeding to shout her victory to what was revealed to be the entire damn family. ”Ohhhjeeezz.” Nico laughed a little, feeling his nerves rising as he buried his face into Matt, ”Aaagghh... I probably look so gay…” He stated, laughing again to convey that he was still happy.

Aki really did show off why they were best friends. She already began shooing all the cheering extended family away before Nico even had a chance to feel anxious. All the sounds of cheering and support… It left Nico smiling fondly, ”She really is the best… Everyone sounded so happy, too…”

Matt Vice

☉

The vast array of rose petals assaulting his sight and smell had prompted Nico to laugh a little. A delighted and lighthearted sound as he immediately realized why Matthew’s family had sent him inside. ’Go on inside! No special reason…’ The wide, Cheshire-cat like grin he saw on their faces made him instantly suspicious. However, the suspicion completely lacked any negativity or dread. He always felt safe and secure around Matthew’s family- the group practically radiated support and love. Regardless of how often Nico or Matt were to fail! For this reason, he had nothing to fear upon walking into an obvious trap. He couldn’t quite help but feel a tiny amusement along with his delight at the candles and petals.

”Jeez, you really got carried away.” Nico remarked while following the trail of petals. His amusement slowly died down to confusion as the scale of this setup had sunk in. More than just petals, he saw boxes of gifts, a note instructing him to follow the trail, and photos… Photos of them together. Nico lingered by the pictures, his amused smile turning into one of pure fondness. Having the peaceful privacy to just enjoy the moment allowed him to be immune to any embarrassment, his chest swelling with pride and love.

Knowing something was definitely up, Nico continued to follow the petals, eager to see what the payoff for all of this could possibly be. Was Matthew just feeling extra romantic tonight? Seems a bit strange to litter his family’s entire house just for an extra special date… A frown crossed his lips as his blood ran could for a moment, eyes going wide as he stopped before reaching the kitchen. ’Did I forget an anniversary?!’ Nico searched his mind, recalling their important dates… He couldn’t think of any. They first met years ago as children- neither could possibly remember the date. Was this the anniversary of their first date…?

No… Couldn’t be…

Nico shook his head in an effort to clear the anxious thoughts that were building up. The smell of rose petals mixed with something familiar and delicious helped soothe his nerves, and he entered the kitchen. A delicious steak dinner clearly awaited them- as freshly cooked as can be! Nico could also see the large array of sides available… But in truth, his silver eyes focused on Matthew. Possibly the softest sight his eyes laid on tonight. ”Matt…?” Nico said, a small smile tugging at his lips and eyes shining in relief. The anxiety disappeared, replaced with simple delight in seeing the other in front of him. He had to resist the urge to go right up to embrace the man-

What’d he just say…

The blond tilted his head as Matt voiced a ‘question’ he’d been pondering for a long while. Seeing a ring box was still not enough to clue in the young man to what was happening. Only upon seeing the ring did his eyes widen in disbelief, hearing the question that was so far from his mind. Mouth dropping open briefly before his hands went to cover it, shocked and briefly overwhelmed until the emotion came out as tears.

”Yes- yes! Of course- I’d love to!!” Nico was far too excited. He forgot a step and instead burst forward to tackle Matthew in a delighted hug and kiss.

Matt Vice

☉

Seeing Matthew crash had prompted Nico to prepare for a stop, eyes wide and a sense of urgency immediately flashing through his mind. But then Matthew got back up! Nana and him were undeterred, even as Lilypad raced by. The goat skipping briefly mid-run to call out to them- Come with us!

More lingering glances over his shoulder brought him relief as he saw the pair already rising to their feet. Thank goodness...

☉

Nico and Lilypad were undeterred by the series of turns. Even if the series of turns may have slowed them down, as they focused more on running rather than using a proper Pokemon move.

☉