Nico grinned in satisfaction as they successfully found the real Kazzy among the group of clones. The notion that their idea had actually worked sparked immediate delight in both of them, with Nico bouncing in place and Juvon waving his tail from side to side eagerly.

Then the next action was announced, and Nico stuttered, blinking once until the move sunk in. "Ohsh- Quick attack away, Juvie!" He'd order, watching as the agile mouse immediately fled, his trainer quickly dodging to the side as the two Pokemon ran past him. "Oh man- those fangs don't look good-!"

Juvon seemed to be in agreement. Frantically fleeing with wide eyes, but with no where to go, he only really managed to lead the Rockruff in a circle around the trainers.

Matt Vice

☉

Matthew’s little exchange with Dagger hadn’t gone unnoticed by Nico, and it honestly made him giggle. A small, short little laugh, but still a laugh, nonetheless. The man could have his secret silly moments at times, especially with their Pokemon.

Sitting atop Nana was always a treat, honestly, once he got past the initial awkward step of clamoring aboard. One could easily forget how big the Pokemon was. They loomed over the earth now, easily doubling their height if not more. Nana hadn’t even begun moving and Nico was already excited, which meant he could certainly relate to the excitable puppy down below. Smiling brightly down at the puppy-pokemon, Nico held onto Matthew’s shoulder as he leaned down, his other arm outstretched for the puppy to reach for. “C’mon bud!” Kazzy would get pulled up by the front paws or the scruff of his neck, although he was cautious around those sharp edges.

“Mmm…” Nico hummed in intrigue as Josh went into more detail. Before today, he hadn’t even considered that there would be different, specialized saddles, yet he was not the least bit surprised as Josh shared this knowledge. It made sense. “I never thought about how stable certain ride Pokemon would or wouldn’t be.” He said, raising his voice in order to be heard over the crash of the ocean, and thankfully having the self-awareness to not yell into Matthew’s ear. Josh and Aslan abruptly seemed to go for a short run, and Nico took the time to resume their half-neglected job. Snatching a grabber tool for himself, he’d pluck up a wrapper out of the sand, briefly observing the duo go on their high-speed run. He’d seen his Pikachu run at high speeds before, but nothing like this! ”Damn.” Was all he’d say to Matt.

Nico flashed a welcoming smile as the racer returned, even seeming to share in their experience with aloof Pokemon, “An Absol! No, mine happens to be an Umbreon, but kinda crazy coincidence that they’re both dark-types, huh?” His smile was wider, looking fond, ”I’ve read a lot about Absol’s in the past before; definitely heard a lotta things… They look like gorgeous ‘mons with a lot of personality.”

Josh Devlin Matt Vice

☉

Predictably, a bit of chaos had unfolded after Nico’s little stunt. The crowd around them cried out in disappointed outrage, their outrage dissipated quickly into laughter, however, upon noticing the MC’s precarious predicament. Both he and Juvon remained stern, expressions hard and strictly business, concealing the fast heartbeat hammering in his chest. A few goons rose to their feet, glowering at their attacker, especially as the offending Pikachu glared harshly at the troupe with cheeks sparking brightly in warning. Silver eyes squinted at the Pokeballs being handed over, then scanned over the other blond stuck in the same situation as Matthew.

Nico had to suppress feelings of flattery and embarrassment as his entrance apparently pleased the stranger, suddenly aware of how ridiculous his appearance must be… But his chin was kept high regardless, expression unchanging. They weren’t safe yet; far from it, in fact. As his eyes shifted to focus on the fighting-type Pokemon, they passed over Matthew, and Nico almost faltered at the sight. Even in this low light, he could see the damage inflicted on his loved one. It made his chest tighten, and for a horrifying, split second… He wanted to cry at the sight. Once that feeling had passed, however, a different hotness burned at his chest and eyes. An uncomfortable, near-painful tightness that resembled a hurricane brewing inside of his torso. A flash of anger coupled with hatred.

Nico did not plan on leaving this operation unscarred.

Swiftly, the skinny blond jumped into the pit, expression softening considerably as he’d stop beside Matthew, granting the man a look. For a split second, his act faltered, and his eyes displayed his worry and sadness. Arm lifting to reach for the others cheek before stopping himself, afraid he’d bring pain to a bruised cheek or chipped tooth. Just then, Issac cut in with his witty question, almost startling Nico. Both blonds were in very different moods right now, yet the quip was a welcome wake-up call. “Homebrew. My family has turned punching into an art.” The statement was completely untrue- but more fun than the truth.

Then, his eyes settled once more on the Pokemon duo. Throh and Sawk; strong-looking ones, too. Nico honestly had to wonder how long they’d been here, how many people they fought… How they seemed to demonstrate loyalty to each other despite all of the odds. The anger-storm welled up in his chest again, “We are leaving.” He growled, leading the way out of the pit and through the crowd. Juvon was still poised on his arm, ready to discharge at any moment, which helped them carve a path to the exit.

Matt Vice Isaac Merlo

☉

He's hoping to find anything other than a Pokeball...

@taghere

☉

Matthew’s attempt to soothe the blonde was quickly overshadowed by more reveals that he hadn’t been made aware of previously. However, steelie silver eyes examined the professional-level saddles, contemplated Josh’s advice and ultimately decided to take a breath. A short sigh let the budding ball of annoyance dissipate in his chest. Besides, how could Nico get legitimately angry with a Pyroar standing right next to him? It was impossible! “Just throw in some chips at dinner.” He’d softly murmur toward his boyfriend, sounding soft enough to get swallowed up by the ocean’s constant waves.

As if to make up for his quiet first-impression, Nico would smile wider at Josh, this time looking more genuine. “Your Pyroar sounds interesting, then!” He gave the fire-type a warm smile, admiring the beast but seemingly content to keep his hands to himself. The lion had only purred but still, Nico could sense the power within the ‘mon. Riding it, though… Josh certainly gave off the impression of a professional, all the way just receiving slow, interested nods. He didn’t know a thing about professional riding- much less races (and it’d be a lie to say that Nico wanted to partake in professional races). Regardless of profession though, one fact was undeniable here. “Aslan is so calm!” Well-behaved. “Did you two train together a long time? My biggest Pokemon is barely half his size, and she can be tough to work with. But she’s never really been aggressive or destructive, just aloof, which I guess I can’t complain about.”

A similar appreciation was shown for his own Pokemon, earning an easy-going smile from Nico as he’d nod. “Yuuuup, he likes hiding up there… Lilypad might get more social later; this is probably the first time she walked on a beach.” The trainer laughed, humming in intrigue as Josh mentioned having his own Gogoat; a nice treat of a coincidence to hear.

True to his words, Lilypad remained uninterested in the extra human and large fire-pokemon in the near-distance. Instead leaping in the air in alarm when Dagger had gone and buried himself inside her leaves. She spun and loudly bleated in annoyance toward the smaller Pokemon, until the shifting sands caused a stumble and the 'mon went back to ignoring everyone to paw at the earth.

Their pleasant exchange was slightly interrupted as Josh reminded the group to stay on-task. How amusing; even in volunteer work there was always some sort of over-achiever… Or rather, simply someone wanting to finish the job and go home. Can’t really argue with the good work ethic, even if Nico held an amused smirk. Until it disappeared quickly, and he looked somewhat startled with the offer. Another ride Pokemon? “Oh- that’s okay, I…” A bit caught off guard at how this task suddenly turned into a ride task, he’d default toward his safety net, “I’ll ride with Matt. Frankly, I’ll probably get too distracted.” The admission came with a sheepish chuckle to keep his own tone light. Nodding gratefully to Matthew’s offer, Nico would climb carefully upon Nana’s back after his boyfriend was settled. Cautious and a tad awkward, as he was out of practice, but certainly knowing the basics of how thanks to his upbringing. So glad the Kumori farm had ride ‘mons…

“How many times did you and Josh meet? Was it once, or twice?” There seemed to be no spite or malice in the question; merely pure curiosity as Nico peered over Matt’s shoulders.

Josh Devlin Matt Vice

☉

More diving!!

@taghere

☉

Tracking Matthew’s trail had been paradoxically easier and harder than Nico expected. For the most part, Tekka was surprisingly cooperative! Her rings illuminating only slightly as she acquiesced to his orders. Worryingly, Matthew was not further into the wilderness but rather, deeper in town… Somehow crossing paths with what Nico might have callously described as unsavory people. Shifty glances, secretive clothing, and dangerous attitudes were just a few of the characteristics Nico could point out as he observed the neighborhoods they passed. The deeper they went, the more inclined he was to pull the hood over his head and zip up his jacket, obscuring the shrunken Pokeballs underneath. Only Juvon reframed from hiding in his Pokeball, opting inside to hide in Nico’s blond hair, lying flat against his skull to avoid bulking up the hood noticeably.

“Let’s be careful here…” Nico whispered in warning to his two Pokemon, hearing a soft rumble from Tekka’s throat and feeling Juvon’s claws tighten in response.

Eventually, a warehouse came into view. Er, The Warehouse, which was apparently used for something different than most other buildings of its type. Lights and crowds were visible even from the outside. Nico’s heart started beating rapidly as possibilities filled his mind; a Pokemon black market? A gang hangout? Kidnapping ring? His jaw clenched, and an internal decision had been hastily made. “Around the back…” He interrupted the Umbreon’s gait, grateful to see the alpha-sized ‘mon stop and turn to make eye contact. “…look for an opening. On my signal, blow it open.” An understanding filled the dark-types glowing eyes, and her large ears fluttered ever so slightly. Nico knew he had just unleashed hell. “Please, do not get caught.” He’d add, seeing Tekka’s nod before she’d turn away.

Before the dark-type got too far ahead, he’d let out Lilypad. The two matched eyes until Nico pressed his forehead against the other’s fuzzy head, “You be careful too. Follow her lead.” And they were off. Yet Juvon hadn’t moved. “Sticking with me?” Nico felt the mouse bury his face deeper into the blond fluff.

Entering the Warehouse was surprisingly easy, albeit costing him a bit of money to get through… Truthfully, Nico wasn’t sure what to expect when he entered, but a bustling, amp’d up crowd made perfect sense. Now he knew where the noise was coming from… Weaving through excited and loud bodies of people, Nico eventually beat the crowd until he saw what the fuss was all about. His boyfriend alongside a stranger, fighting against Pokemon. Two fighting types. Nico had arrived just in time to see the second fighter, a Throh, join the picture, eyes wide as he fixated on the MC of the room. The man apparently hosting this whole mess. His eyes were wide and filled with something indiscernible as the blond moved through the crowd once more. Weaving quickly and efficiently, using his lanky, thin physique to his advantage.

One could be forgiven for confusing Nico for a lightweight. A pushover with no real strength behind him, instead only relying on his Pokemon’s strength. However, his slender form obscured the many hours of training endured alongside his own pokemon... He picked up speed when he saw a clear path through the crowd, straight to the MC standing atop his unimpressive podium. Grasping at his electrified gloves as his boots carried him faster until he was nearly sprinting at the MC’s back- but of course, bodyguards got in the way. Two nameless, larger men blocked his path- until Juvon sprang forth from his hood, electrocuting both with a sharp, stubborn cry, while Nico barreled right in between the guards and blades of Thunderbolt.

Stride unbroken, Nico threw all his momentum and weight behind the punch, aiming to drive electrified gloves hard into the MC’s face. The catharsis of knocking an arrogant man off his feet may have been a nice bonus, but he instead sought a purpose; aiming to slam the MC clean off his feet and into the Sawk down below.

“This fight is over! You have one chance to let us leave!” Nico shouted atop the podium, raising his elbow as Juvon perched atop it, cheeks sparking threateningly.

Matt Vice Isaac Merlo

☉

“I-j-you- Josh?!” Nico’s sputters died down rather quickly when the stranger had soon approached, distracting them from the frantic tongue-lashing that Matthew was close to receiving. So much information was dropped in the span of a few seconds, it left Nico feeling absolutely blindsided! Matthew knew this fellow on a first-name basis?! This stranger-Josh-was apparently present for the capture of Deemu?! Nico got called a mere friend… He has a PYROAR- The blond looked like a wide-eyed child in that moment, looking from Josh to Matthew to ‘read the room’, as they say.

Yet for all the internal panic Nico’s mind suddenly went through, the arrival wasn’t entirely unpleasant. This Pyroar was an amazing sight to behold, and he loved it, seething with admiration and even a tiny bit of jealousy as his wide-eyed look soon softened into delight. Even if it was dampened a bit by confusion- Josh’s phrasing sounded funky to him. Maybe he was imagining it. As far as Nico was concerned, Josh was the one joining them.

But he wouldn’t argue semantics with a stranger right now. “Umm, hello, Josh! Good to meet you.” There was a pause as Nico waited for the other to throw more trash away, appreciating that they were all here to do the same thing. “I’m Nico, a pleasure to meet you and Aslan. I’ve never seen a Pyroar in person before!” He’d add a polite nod as well, briefly gesturing up toward the top of his head, “And this here is Juvon.” With how the sun shone off of their heads, the Pikachu on his head blended into his hair very well, especially when he kept his ears low and face hidden away. Something about the humidity in the air kept Juvon calm, even his tail was low as it dangled just above Nico’s back. “I have my Skiddo around too, but uh, she tends to ignore strangers.” True to word, Lilypad seemed to be making every effort to ignore the humans, instead pawing at the sand, and experimenting how it shifts beneath her hooves.

Josh’s follow-up questions caused Nico’s brows to raise in intrigue, arms crossing as he turned his head toward his boyfriend. The professional gear upon the Pyroar’s back hadn’t gone unnoticed; Nico was surprised to realize his boyfriend was seemingly inspired to try Pokemon racing! How interesting, a fact that hadn’t been brought up between the two just yet. “Huh! So, how HAVE you and Nana been doin’ with that?” Nico was smirking, and although he didn’t outright state anything, a tiny thread of sarcasm and dry humor could be detected in his tone. Is this yet ANOTHER thing you didn’t bother to tell me?

Josh Devlin Matt Vice

☉

Nico let out a giggle and stuck his own tongue out at Matthew in retaliation. Both he and Juvon looked rather pleased with themselves, challenging the others to answer their call to combat. Both looked surprised, however, when the sidewalk was suddenly covered in multiple different Kazzy's, all grinning Juvon down. "Bii..." The mouse looked around nervously at the crowd now surrounding him.

"No problem!" Nico declared, "If he wants to bring friends, we'll just hit 'em all! Thunderbolt at their feet, Juvon!" He ordered, earning a quick cry of acknowledgement before Juvon's cheeks began to spark.

Rather than letting out a condensed, focused blast, the Pikachu spread his electricity all over, aiming for the ground- specifically, at all of Kazzy's paws in an effort to knock the real one off balance by the small blast of energy.

Matt Vice

☉

What can he say? This is a fun one.

@taghere

☉

Both Juvon and Nico were grinning in anticipation of the practice battle. Even though the Scary Face did successfully make him flinch, bewildering the Pikachu for a few moments until Nico shook his head. "It's just to slow you down! Let's counter that with Agility, bud!" He commanded, earning a swift nod from his partner as a soft glow seemed to radiate from the yellow fur.

Shaking his fur loose, Juvon jumped swiftly and grinned toward Kazzy, his lightning-shaped tail wagging behind him like a perfectly-timed upside down grandfather clock. "Beeii!" The mouse stuck his tongue out, winking at the dog and bouncing from foot to foot in an obvious challenge. Can't slow me down!!

Matt Vice

☉

Observing Lilypad's disagreement with the sand did wonders for Nico's already-cheery mood. Laugh almost sounding like a giggle, watching as the skiddo shook her head about and then proceeded to bleat in more disapproval, clearly whipping up a speech about how terrible this place was. "Gotta get used to all fields!" Nico cheerfully warned her, taking the time to carefully stab a wrapper and carefully shove it to the trash. Matthew decided to join in the fun, and Nico briefly cheered on the two Pokemon's appearance, welcoming them, "Hiii Nana! Dagger!"

But just then, Nico was caught off guard by the presence of another. Someone calling for Matthew's name with no hesitation or doubt; clearly the stranger must have known him.

And that fact... disturbed him... Just a little bit.

"Uhh... Matthew? Is that... Do you know that person?" Nico asked, trudging the sand to stand by his boyfriends' side, silver eyes wide with concern and a tiny bit of intrigue. "He's riding a Pyroar...!!" The latter sentence came in a fierce whisper.

Josh Devlin Matt Vice

☉