[PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN]

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Jan 29, 2013 10:07 pm

It was a slow process thanks to those that stopped them, asking how their mission had gone. Benga usually took to answering though Blaire chimed in from time to time with her half of things. It was all a tedious process and she had to admit she was getting a little annoyed by the rather knowing looks they sometimes got, no doubt because Benga was carrying her around.

"Nah, that would be too easy," she sniffed, playing her chin on his shoulder. Blaire had to admit she was rather comfortable, being carried about like this by Benga, despite some of the looks they got for it. "We can't have that now can we?"

"He'll probably be pretty intrigued by it all," Blaire answered, trying to get into Alder's mind set. He sometimes had a knack for getting interested in things others had no inclination towards or had dismissed as unnecessary.

She blinked as Benga carried on, maybe thinking out loud just to keep the conversation rolling. So he had also come to that thought, too? Lance having a girlfriend seemed unlikely however it wasn't impossible. It was a possibility if nothing else.

Blaire grew a little smug as Benga snickered at his own observation. She leaned forward a little, smirking at him.

"And what are you snickering about, hmm? You've never even had a girlfriend," she pointed out lightly. Despite this a little part of Blaire flared up in jealously at the idea of Benga going out with some other girl. She did her best to quash it.

----[x]----

Lance hummed, glancing up at the clock. It was a little past noon now. No doubt it might be an hour or so before Layla was even looked at. A frown marred his lips at that, missing the way that Weavile seemed to smile up at Layla.

"I suppose it would be natural to run away to your own little Wonderland," he reasoned after a moment, carrying on their conversation. If it kept Layla calm and gave her something to focus on other than the pain than it was worth it.

He turned his gaze back to her, observing her as he had taken to doing. She definitely seemed like the type who liked to leisurely wander about, perhaps take the time to get into a book she might like. He'd have to look into getting her a book or two soon to occupy her time.

His foot took up a tapping rhythm momentarily along the tile floor. His mind drifted back to those two rebels. Had they intentionally went after Layla or had they thought of her as someone unfortunate who needed saving? They couldn't have come just for her, not after only a day of being his assistant and besides the boy had seemed much more concerned with his partner's well-being than keeping Layla.

"Tell me," he mused, watching her carefully. "Did those rebels say why they ran off with you?"

The least he could do was sate his curiosity and try to figure out if they might come back for her later. If that was the case Lance would have to keep a closer eye on her so that she would not be taken from him again.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Jan 29, 2013 10:51 pm

Benga had to agree with what she had said about his grandfather. Alder always seemed to be interested in one person or the next. He was open minded to everyone, taking people under his wing, to relate and help them find themselves again.

It was an admirable thing to do and many respected his grandfather for that. Benga couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in him over that fact.

As Blaire teased him, he felt his cheeks warm again. An annoyed frown lined his lips as he shot a look back at her. Of course she'd go about that way to tease him. It was her mindset. She would do it if she could.

"Oh, right!" He attempted to jest back aside from his embarrassment. "And you've had a boyfriend?"

He cleared his throat, turning his gaze forward again. He couldn't run into anyone, after all, risking her falling off his back was not what he wanted to do. He tried to calm his pounding heart.

"I'm just saying!" He plowed on. "The guy doesn't seem the type to be romancing! The fact that he proclaimed that girl as 'his' could mean anything!"

He tried to calm his beating heart, wondering why this feeling attempted to grab him so hard. It wasn't something that he was used to. He attempted to ignore the glances their way, those knowing ones. What did they know? What was he missing?

Benga found he had no idea.

----[x]----

Layla lifted her head again, blinking a couple of times. She thought back to when the fiery haired male had originally thrown her over his shoulder. There hadn't been much conversation between them; not until she mentioned Lance's name.

"I think he originally had the intention of getting me out of the base," She responded after a few moments. "Until I told Crux to find you did he seem to take interest in me."

It had confused her at first. After he had taken her to that clearing was when she began to mull over it. If they wanted information, they had looked in the wrong place. Still, Layla had intentions to remain quiet, despite knowing nothing at all.

"He asked if I was your 'assistant' and when I didn't give him the answer he had been looking for, he assumed I had Stockholm's Syndrome."

Layla scrunched her nose at that. She still hated to think about it. She would never relate to her abusers in the past. They hadn't given her a reason to in the first place. The mere mention of it annoyed her.

"It seemed to me that he might have thought I had information and that I was being regularly abused by you to keep me quiet."

She scratched her cheek at that, watching his expression. Lance hadn't been pleased to be lightly compared to the abusers in Genesis. If outright accused or even put under the same line as them, how would he react. He'd no doubt grow annoyed over the fact, that much she had already figured.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Jan 29, 2013 11:07 pm

Blaire huffed, though she couldn't wipe the amusement off of her face. She had to admit to herself that Benga looked rather cute when he was embarrassed.

"Hey! Hey!! At least I've been kissed before!"

She chuckled, settling her chin back against his shoulder. Benga was doing all he could to make sure the conversation steered back around to the original topic. Blaire hated to admit that those glances they were receiving from those that passed by them were leaving her a little caught off guard as well.

What did they look so smug about that they didn't know?

"I'll give you that, though," Blaire relented after a moment, toying with the pokeball necklace he adorned. It was something else that he had picked up from his grandpa, who also wore what looked to be pokeballs over his poncho.

She released a short hum in thought after a moment. She needed a bath soon, if only to get the sewer stink out of her hair and to change clothes. Her thoughts briefly drifted back to the night before and the way that she and Benga had been so shy with one another.

Biting her lip she hesitated for a moment before speaking up. "Hey, Benga, maybe in a little bit we can just sit and talk...?"

Part of her hoped that he would get what was unspoken about that offer. Blaire didn't want to have to explain with so many people around to overhear and pass it around.

----[x]----

Lance felt aggravation at being accused of abusing someone else flare up in his chest. It was hot and fiery and he clenched his jaw against it, keeping silent. A shake of his head accompanied this. It only last for a few moments before it dulled as Layla continued on.

He ducked his head, chuckling. If anyone would have Stockholm's it was people who were very much like Layla. Despite the way she pouted and looked resentful of that fact it was how it usually happened.

"Well, no doubt the rebels will have a fair share of new gossip to mull over for awhile," he noted.

He glanced towards the hallways as the sounds of approaching footsteps reached his ears. A scowl tugged at Lance's lips as they faded away a moment later - another false alarm. He wondered again how long they'd be here at this rate.

"Interesting, how you chose to come back without any argument," he pointed out.

Lance kept his gaze on her, watching her for her reaction. A part of him had been surprised. True, he had been kindly to her but she was a rebel to begin with. Any one of the others that might have ended up in her care would have chosen to be off with the rebels and fighting back or even risking trying to live with their head down.

So, why had Layla come back with no fuss?

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Jan 29, 2013 11:31 pm

Benga snorted in response to her words. He didn't care to be reminded for some reason. Jealousy gripped hard at him and he tried to quash it soon after. Why he felt this way in the first place, he found he couldn't be sure.

Benga listened to her speak a little more as she toyed with his necklace. She'd picked up doing this kind of thing for a while. It wasn't so much an annoyance, he actually found he liked it when she did.

These and many other habits, he found he liked.

He blinked, taking in her words and how hesitantly she had said them. He wondered what was on her mind. Why was she being so hesitant again? They both had been that way not too long ago.

Benga found he wasn't sure of why and without answers, he was beginning to get annoyed.

"Sure," He responded, tipping his head back slightly, glancing at her. "I don't see why not. Seems we both need to anyways."

Benga wasn't sure what he meant by those words. He'd said them casually, just as they had always been between friends. Still, something whirled in his chest at the mention of them. There was a different meaning behind them and he knew it.

So why had they come out that way? He wasn't sure. He tried to put it to the back of his mind for the moment.

----[x]----

Layla's breath caught in her throat at the words. Why had she gone with him without a second thought? She'd like to think it was because she had no one else. Even as a rebel, she had been rather withdrawn from most people. Who she had in the past, she'd lost during the first attack, some afterward.

She pushed her hair out of her face, ducking her head again. Her stomach twisted in knots, unsure of how to reply. Had that young man been right about her? Was she suffering from Stockholm's Syndrome?

In a matter of moments, doubts had fallen onto her shoulders again.

"I don't...have anyone else...so..." She muttered in response, unsure of what else to convey.

Crux blinked up at her again, frowning. She was always easy to hurt, given the right words. People she grew close to could hurt her easily without realizing it. Was she growing so close to this man without realizing it?

His frown hardened at that thought.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Jan 29, 2013 11:49 pm

It had grown quiet after Blaire's rebuttal and she worried about what effect, unseen as it was, that her mention of being kissed before had on Benga. Why get so quiet? He wasn't one to just get like that when he'd lost any kind of an argument - playful or otherwise.

She was less concerned when Benga answered her question, glancing back at her. Blaire returned the gesture with a small smile, continuing to mess with his necklace for the time being. She did her best not to focus on why his answer seemed so different than it would in the past.

"Papa Bear must be hiding," she carried on after a moment. "No doubt Kadabra found him by now."

Blaire knew that he was most likely busy with something. the base wasn't exactly small, using as much space as they could for everyone hiding there. Unless he was caught up in something he would undoubtedly want to come check up on his grandson as soon as possible.

"Maybe he's hiding out in his office?" she suggested. Of course it was a loose term. It was merely the room he was found in most often when he had to get some time to himself and think.

----[x]----

Lance scoffed, taking note of the way Layla's expression twisted with doubts. She was putting too much stock into what a stranger had to say. Her words were carefully picked, unsure of her own answer.

He waved a hand at the words. "You're putting too much stock into what some random boy said."

They were true enough to Lance. He had merely been curious and would not have pried for an answer if Layla had felt uncomfortable with answering. Perhaps she didn't realize that, considering the other men she had been passed around to work for.

"If you are so uncomfortable answering something then don't force yourself to," Lance said, watching her. "The same if I ask of something that is too much for you."

The last thing he needed was for Layla to draw away from him. He resisted frowning at that thought, a little confused as to why he was so vehemently against that idea. He was not a man who grew attached to anyone quickly.

Lance put it from his mind for the time being. He would ponder on it later, when he did not have any risk of someone observing him. A new pair of footsteps coming closer to the room drew his attention and he wondered if it was finally the doctor.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 12:25 am

Benga mulled over the silence that had passed them. This was something rather usual in their case. They normally had a multitude of things to say to each other, whether it be bickering or joking.

This change in them, he found, seemed to bring about some odd things.

"He might be." He responded to her words.

They both knew Alder took off whenever he could, simply to wander and to talk with others. That's how it had always been regardless of the circumstance. His grandfather liked to know people. It was something he had taken up over the years.

Still, his 'office' was worth a shot and Benga wasted no time moving toward the room. He didn't bother knocking, he rarely ever did. There in the room, his grandfather sat.

"Well, what do we have here?" The man inquired, laughing heartily at the sight of the two. Benga tugged a chair around, letting Blaire slide off his back so she might sit down comfortably. He noticed Alder watching her.
"I take it things went more or less according to your plans?" he prodded.

Benga scoffed in response, plopping down on a chair himself. He didn't quite like being reminded that it had not gone exactly according to plan.

"Long story." He finally relented.

Still, his grandfather only smiled patiently, waiting to be told what happened. He and Blaire would launch into an explanation of what had happened through that time.

He watched Alder rub his chin, something the man did when in deep thought. While he didn't seem distressed to hear of what had happened in the building, he seemed interested in Lance's involvement, much like Blaire and Benga had believed he would.

"You've no idea why she would go back to him? Or why he came after her?" Alder prodded.

Benga shook his head a moment after. "She wouldn't talk." He explained. "So we couldn't get much out of her, even if we tried.

He glanced at Blaire, wondering her take on it. As they had thought, perhaps there was more meaning behind their relationship. Benga couldn't be sure.

----[x]----

Layla listened to his words, her stomach settling a little. He was merely curious? So why did she feel so lousy when he'd asked? Layla couldn't be sure.

She had worried over her condition after the male had mentioned Stockholm's Syndrome. She worried that she fell into it without realizing it. Most people did, an act of kindness over abuse reigning others in. Part of her feared that would happen now.

Layla attempted to shake those thoughts away. She couldn't let herself think like this. It only hurt more then it helped. Still, she didn't force herself to smile, only giving a slight 'okay' in response. Any other words that she might have found were quashed as the doctor finally arrived.

The woman took to quickly prodding Layla's wounds quickly. Layla would wince, suppressing a yelp and cringes, only answering the questions she was given afterward.

"Bruised bones or hairline fractures might be the worst case here," she conveyed to the pair. "Those simply take time to heal."

Layla scoffed, hearing it before. The woman could find nothing drastic. Her pain was mostly from being jostled about so easily.

"Taking it easy would be in your best interest," She stated simply. "And avoid agitating the areas, especially having them struck again, even slight bumps could do more harm than good."

They were simple instructions though, Layla had to wonder how well those simple instructions could be taken, however. Given the situation, anything could happen. She'd expected more damage than this. If she was struck again, would her ribs be broken? How would that effect her?

She feared finding out.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 12:39 am

Once she had slid into the chair Benga found, Blaire sat on her good foot, leaving the other stretched out in front of her. She had a habit of sitting on her feet when given the chance and if it wasn't for the state of the other would have taken to seating herself on both. Cold feet was part of this as well as it being a comfortable way for Blaire to sit.

At Alder's prodding the two launched into their version of events, trying to recall anything and everything that might be relevant. It seemed to take a shorter amount of time than Blaire would have thought.

She met Benga's glance before leaning forward, chin in hands. "It's hard to say. When I got back to the meeting spot there hadn't been much time as it was to try and talk to her before Lance showed up."

A frown lined Blaire's lips as she hummed in thought, trying to recall everything that had happened then. It hadn't been a long exchange. Surprisingly Lance had seemed rather possessive of the other woman.

"It could have been something more personal," she mulled slowly. "It's not like she was willing to tell us what happened between them after she became his 'assistant' anyways."

"It was weird though. He suggested we leave immediately after that girl was returned like he didn't care that we had essentially decimated the stronghold he was located in."

----[x]----

Lance could not force the frown off of his face if he wanted to at the rather put out way that Layla acted. He wasn't sure how to deal with sensitive folks and it looked like he would have to learn or else keep putting Layla off as such. He found he rather did not like that dejected look on her face.

He kept quiet as the woman who entered took to prodding at Layla. It didn't seem as if anything new had arisen due to the incident. For that Lance was grateful. Things could have gone sour at any point, after all.

"Well, if that's all," he noted, standing up.

It was only a few short strides to Layla's side, holding out his hand to help her up. He might as well try and lift her mood again. It seemed he had quite the habit of putting her out.

"Unless you wish to prescribe her something for the pain?"

Layla was missing her jacket and any pills she might have been given by Genesis' medical team were lost in the destroyed building they had escaped from. No doubt something would help her through the nights. Lance did not want to see her deprived of sleep over something that could be avoided.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 1:04 am

Benga watched his grandfather rub his chin again, leaning back. He knew the man was deep in thought at this point. It was a very different case to hear, after all. Lance had been actively part of Genesis since it began. No doubt, the words were rather odd to him.

"That's very strange," He noted in response. "Neither of them gave any indication of a form of 'relationship' than?"

Benga shook his head in response. "Other then Lance saying 'you've taken something of mine', there really wasn't anything else. We figure that could have meant anything."

Benga drew his legs up, sitting in more of an Indian style fashion as he watched his grandfather mull over the information. He was interested, that much was obvious. With so little on both of them, they couldn't say much else. What their intentions were or their relationship remained a mystery.

"This is all rather odd," Alder carried on. I've never heard of something like this, especially considering the man's rank."

Lance was a rather higher up member, they all knew that. Running into him was bad news, especially if he was challenged. Yet, he had let them go without a second thought, the woman returned to him.

"It seems such a stretch," Benga noted. "To let us go over that girls life." he shrugged his shoulders lightly. "I don't know, maybe there is something going on between them..."

No one could be for sure. They had gotten out of it alive, however. That's all Benga cared about for the moment.

----[x]----

Layla took Lance's hand, letting him pull her carefully to her feet. There was no short complaints from her ribs. Until something was prescribed, she wouldn't feel much relief anytime soon. Layla hated feeling this kind of pain day in and day out. It left her in a miserable state at times.

"Of course," the woman answered, tapping a pen against the a clip board she held. "I'll be back with you momentarily."

With that said, the woman strode out for a moment. Crux took the time to carefully move onto Layla's shoulders again, nuzzling into her cheek. The woman could easily be put down over small words, even if another party had not intended to hurt her.

Layla's mind had wandered to other things however.

"Lance..." She began, feeling her heart stir again, beating quickly against her chest. "Why did you essentially proclaim me as your own back there?"

It had been bugging her up to this point, in the back of her mind. Part of her wanted to deny it's signification, the other wanted it to somehow be some form of truth. She didn't know how to feel about these warring sides to her, unused to this conflict over these words.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 1:19 am

It was painfully obvious that they were no closer to figuring out Lance's reasons than they had been at the time it had happened. This left Blaire a little frustrated though she felt it wouldn't be best to focus on it. She didn't want to sour the mood because of something like this.

Instead she tossed Benga an amused look.

"Well, you certainly seem keen on that boyfriend-girlfriend idea there," she began lightly. "Is that some Freudian logic slipping through?"

Regardless of Benga's response she turned back to Alder, amusement still dancing in her eyes. She did enjoy picking at Benga though he was always quick to pick back.

"So, Papa Bear, how have things been here?"

It was something that they missed out on, being out and about and trying to actively do something for the rebel cause. They didn't get news back often and it left the two in the dark to how everyone was. It was a rather lonely thing sometimes though neither she nor Benga chose to focus on it.

"You weren't slacking off and flirting with that old Sinnoh Champ, were you?" she teased.

----[x]----

He nodded to the doctor, helping Layla to her feet as gently as possible. Lance did not want to see her wince in pain solely because he was helping her, after all. Her question, once the other woman was gone, startled him however. It left him caught off guard and unsure of how to answer.

Part of him grew wary about a response that he could provide. Would she read too much into it or grow hurt? Lance didn't have any way of knowing until whatever damage might be done was done.

He could hear the ticking of the clock dictating just how long it was taking him to answer. This agitated him further, left his normally clear head flustered. Why was he so careful about walking around eggshells with Layla? Why did she have this effect on him?

He shook his head, attempting to clear it for a time.

"Let's just leave it as you are my ally," he answered lamely after a moment. It was a last ditch answer, the only way he knew how to respond to her and he rather hoped that Layla could pick that up.

Feeling a little awkward, unsure about his own actions, he reached out to ruffle Layla's hair in what he hoped would be a reassuring manner.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 1:43 am

Benga's face felt inflamed again. She had a knack for mentioning these things in front of his grandfather, just to see a reaction out of him. It always worked, despite any argument given.

"Hey! I'm just tossing ideas around!" He shouted his defense. "And if I'm right, I'll be the one to say 'I told you so!'"

Alder roared into laughter at the words, tipping his head back as he did so. Blaire didn't seem to find any reason to hold her own in either, leaving Benga a frustrated, blushing mess. How these two managed to get under his skin so easily, he'd never know.

"Things have been fine, Alder finally replied after reigning in his laughter. "We've been getting a steady stream of new rebels on and off since you've been gone."

It was a comforting thing to know. More seemed to be trying to reach out to the cause rather than hide away or obey Genesis' law. Part of Benga always wondered what 'the last straw' was to turn these people, however.

Alder coughed into his fist at the next question. "I suppose I might have, once or twice."

Benga grinned despite himself, shaking his head a little. The man would never be able to not do something like that, even given the state of the world. He was too laid back for that kind of thing.

"Ah, but I find myself more concerned over you," Alder plowed on. "That fall sounds as if it might have done quite a bit of damage."

Benga watched Blaire for any note of discomfort over the subject. Her Pokemon still injured from the fall as well, she might still be feeling a heavy amount of guilt.

----[x]----

Layla was a little startled by his hand ruffling her hair. She tried not to flinch despite the abuses she'd taken in the past. She didn't want to think about them, didn't want them to make her react in this way when someone was attempting to be gentle with her.

The words spoken had been rather hesitant ones. Was he unsure of his own emotions as well? Layla liked to think that might have been the case. They had been awkward, despite his attempts.

Despite herself, she leaned into him, wrapping on arm around him. It wasn't something she allowed to linger. He tensed immediately, unsure how to respond. Her own heart stirred rather quickly, leaving her feeling rather nervous and shy.

Layla pulled away when she heard the doctors footsteps again, not giving the man much of moment to react. She would walk in, glancing between the two before handing off Layla's prescription, giving simple instructions on what to do with the pills.

Layla made sure to be careful with these. She had pocketed the last in her coat which she lost. She had loved that coat but she tried to put it behind her. She took the first of the pills as told to and hoped the pain wouldn't linger too long. The doctor invited the two of them to stay as long as they needed.

Layla had to wonder if Lance had to head out quickly. He did have someone to meet, after all. Until the pain killer kicked in, Layla didn't want to risk going out and about.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 1:56 am

Blaire's mood was sobered immediately upon the reminder of her fall. Her head was still throbbing from all the noise and the hit to her head. Her ankle also shot bursts of pain up her leg though she was doing her best to ignore both of those for the moment.

Kujo and Cerberus were brought back to her mind at the mention of it as well. Both had been quicker on their feet than her and had attacked to protect her despite any injures, even after landing on Kujo.

Her gaze averted as it always did when she was feeling guilty.

"It would have been worse but I landed on Kujo," she admitted lowly. "I'm afraid he might be hurt worse than I am but Nurse Joy's looking after him now...."

After a moment she gestured to the bandage on her forehead. It was stained with a little bit of blood since being placed over the sutures.

"The doc' also thinks I might have a concussion so if there's anything I can do to stay up and all that'd be pretty rad."

Blaire grew quiet then, fidgeting in her seat. She didn't like being fussed after when she was injured or sick. It left her a little uncomfortable even if those that tried to look after her only had her best interests at heart.

----[x]----

Layla had observed him carefully for a few seconds after he had answered, ruffling her hair in the process. Lance had enough time to furrow his brow in silent question at this before she had reached out, wrapping her arms around his middle.

Lance froze, unsure of what to do. His hands hovered over her frame, careful to avoid her Weavile still perched upon her shoulder and looking a little caught off guard at this as well. This was not normal for Lance and it left him at a complete loss as to what to do.

He cleared his throat when she pulled away, willing his face to cool. The doctor was quick to re-enter, a brow raised as she handed a pill bottle to Layla.

He discreetly stepped away, coughing into his fist. How was he supposed to take such obvious affection? Lance was not one to grow close to others. He had only ever been close to Pokemon and to his sister.

And why had his heart picked up speed and blood rush to his face?

Lance shook his head, gesturing to Layla. "Whenever those pills kick in we can go. Perhaps there is a library you can explore while I meet with Lorelei."

It was a distraction at best, even if his face still felt warm. What was Layla making of his behavior? Part of him was decidedly curious about it.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 2:14 am

Benga watched as Blaire seemed to grow a little more awkward. This was something normal and they both expected it. She had never been one who cared to be fussed over like this.

"I might be able to find you something," Alder noted after a moment of silence. He grinned at the pair a moment after. "Perhaps you'd like to take some time to yourselves. I've no doubt you've had a long trip."

Benga snorted a little in response. "That's a bit of an understatement."

His grandfather laughed in response to his jest. They really had been gone for quite some time. Some rest, he figured, would do the both of them good. Benga had to wonder what Blaire wanted to talk about as well. She seemed rather hesitant about it not so long ago, after all.

"What do you think?" Benga prodded Blaire, grinning.

No doubt, the woman would want to take some time to get cleaned up and talk at some point. She'd be relying on him for a time in a form of 'transportation'. Benga didn't mind that fact so much. He liked helping her when she needed it.

----[x]----

Layla watched Lance for a moment. She had to calm her own racing heart, turning her gaze away for a moment. Crux prodded her lightly with his claw, as if to ask what she meant to do. She ignored him for a time, unsure herself what exactly she had done in the moment or why she had.

"That, uh...I'd like that." She finally answer, pushing her bangs out of her face.

Despite the bold move, Layla had always had trouble attempting to show affection toward anyone. She was often too shy to manage it in the past and missed opportunities because of it.

She had to wonder if Lance had become like all of those times. The only difference was she actually attempted to show that affection, despite the wave of shyness that had followed.

Layla attempted to quash it as they waited. It took quite some time before the pain killer settled in. When it did, she was grateful. She hated having to go through this kind of thing and was happy that Lance had helped her.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 2:25 am

"That'd be great, actually," Blaire relented, feeling relieved when she was no longer fussed over. She tugged at her hair, a disgusted look crossing her face. "It'll be nice to wash out the sewer stink."

She paused, tugging at her shirt and wrinkling her nose at the dull smell that still stuck to the clothe. "And maybe a change of clothes...."

Blaire had no doubt that while both she and Benga agreed to rest Alder would have found some way to press the idea anyways. He cared about people and didn't want to see them overwork themselves.

Looking a little sheepish now that Alder was there, though why that was she wasn't entirely sure, Blaire gestured to her ankle.

"I hate to ask but would you mind...?"

Part of her always worried a little when she asked things like piggy back rides from Benga that it was too much. Blaire didn't like to ask too much from anyone if she could help it and was usually a little inclined to not ask for help because of it. She didn't like to bother people about her problems if it could be helped.

----[x]----

It didn't feel as long as Lance had expected before Layla announced that the pain pill had kicked in. He gestured for her to start their pace, not wanting to walk too swiftly for her in case she was mistaken.

"Then let's go locate you the nearest library," Lance said, sparing her a half-smile. He had promised that if she worked on her confidence that he would try to smile more often. Hugging him out of the blue like that had to have taken confidence.

It was a short walk back to the waiting room and out of the hospital. He glanced up, gauging the time with the sun in the sky. It was late in the afternoon by this point. He wouldn't spare Lorelei much time once he met with her.

Mulling it over he glanced to Layla as they searched for the library. "Tell me, what do you enjoy reading?"

She seemed far too shy now, perhaps from hugging him earlier. How long would that keep her in her shell as such? Lance had to wonder. Perhaps conversation would help to pry her back out of it.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 2:44 am

Benga watched as she picked at her clothes. He couldn't deny that he wanted a shower himself. Despite leaving the sewers far behind, he felt he could still smell the stink on them. It wasn't a pleasant feeling.

Alder motioned toward them lightly, as if to say it was alright to go. He didn't seem to mind when they came and went. It had been this way for quite some time. He noted that Blaire seemed a tad more awkward however, and smiled at this.

Whatever his grandfather knew that they did not would only result in the same end. Questions that would not be answered on either end just yet.

Benga got up, moving toward Blaire. He managed to settle her onto his back, after letting her slide forward. She relaxed a moment later, holding onto him as she normally had done.

"Alright gramps. We'll see you later!" he stated before leaving. Benga heard the man chuckle before the door closed.

"So what's first?" Benga inquired a few beats after. "Shower first? I can get you to your room if you want."

Benga felt a little awkward mentioning it now. He didn't know why. Things like this would have never bothered him in the past. He had always been willing to help. Now? It seemed all like foreign territory to him.

----[x]----

Layla was surprised to see him smiling down at her, even if it was small. She couldn't help but smile back, a warmth spreading in her chest. Despite her best efforts, she felt her cheeks warm again and she ducked her head in attempts to hide it. Crux scoffed at the sight, knocking the woman on the head with his claw lightly.

It was a warmer day despite it being autumn. Layla was glad for it, even if it was moving toward mid afternoon. Without her jacket, she would have been chillier at this time of day.

His question caught her off guard a little, pulled from her thoughts.

"Oh, um..." She paused, mulling it over. She finally gave a light shrug. "Anything, I suppose. I never really had a specific genre I liked. I just read whatever I thought was good."

It was a simple answer. There were rare times when she didn't care for the book she picked up. It simply depended on the writer in the end.

"I never liked writers who relied on heavy cliches." She elaborated further. "Too easy to predict the outcome."

Layla found she was glad that Lance had asked of something she was interested in. It took her mind off her shyness, let her relax a little in turn. She knew she had made him feel a little awkward over the act as well. Perhaps it was serving to distract him too. She found she couldn't be sure.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 3:22 am

Blaire waved at Alder as they left, calling out a "See ya, Papa Bear!" before they were out of the room, back in the crowds of rebels and those that stayed for their own safety.

She mulled it over for a moment, again taking to playing with his necklace as he carried her. No doubt Benga wanted to take the time to wash and change as well. It was always one of the first things they did once all other matters were taken care of after a mission involving sewer crawling.

"If you can get me to my room I think I can manage from there," she said, "that way you can get a shower, too."

She paused then, unsure of what to say next. Benga seemed a little awkward and she couldn't deny that she did as well. Blaire briefly wondered why that was again though didn't pause to dwell on it, not at the moment.

"Afterwards we can laze around and talk," she continued, burying her face into Benga's shoulder. Blaire couldn't even begin to explain why her heart began to pick up speed at the simple mention of talking things over with Benga.

----[x]----

Lance took in her answer, filing it away fro later. That seemed fitting for Layla. Again, he made it a point to try and keep her occupied with her old hobbies. It seemed to bring her out of her shell.

"I see," he noted after a moment, nodding his head. If he had taken note to Weavile hitting Layla he did not make any mention of it.

He glanced up at the sky again. Clouds were scuttling on by, sometimes blocking the sun's rays and sending a cooler area as it cast them in shadows. Lance eyed Layla then. How long would she be able to take the chilly air later in fall before she needed something heavier again?

"If we have some time tonight we'll get you a new jacket as well."

It would be no big problem. Things such as this weren't. Lance had an easier time with money problems with his Champion status though he was not one to flaunt it. It was a disgusting habit that he did not want to partake in.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 1:21 pm

Benga hummed in response. He hoped that she would be alright on her own, even if it was just for a little while. Her ankle was in bad shape and the thought of a concussion only made him a little more nervous.

Regardless, he moved toward her room. The hall was normally rather empty, most rebels taking time to move about during the day while they could.

Pushing open her door, he moved inside and flipped the light on. He moved toward the bed, setting her down gently.

"Alright," he began. "I'll try to be back here as soon as I can." He rubbed the back of his neck, feeling a little awkward. "You sure you don't need any more help?"

It took him a moment before he realized what he said. Coughing into his fist, he turned his head away. Blaire wouldn't let that comment slide, even if he wished she would. She'd run with it, simply to get a reaction.

----[x]----

Layla reached up, patting Crux a little. It had been a little obvious that he disliked the idea of her attempting to grow close to Lance back at the stronghold. She wished he wouldn't think of him in a suspicious regard. The man was doing what he could to help her and Layla was putting her trust in him.

She smiled at him only for Crux to huff a little in return, pouting. Layla couldn't help but laugh a little at this motion.

At the mention of a coat, she turned to look at Lance again. With her own lost, she wouldn't have anything else to protect her over the winter. The other reason was the scars and bruises on her arms. Despite her long sleeves, she had always felt exposed without her coat.

She tugged lightly at her sleeve before pulling away at it. She didn't want this to be a habit anymore.

"If you're sure," she replied, smiling up at him. "Thank you."

She wondered if she could ever come to a point where she could tell Lance or at least show him. He knew the damage but he'd never actually seen it. Her arms were bad enough. She hated feeling as if she needed to keep secrets.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 1:46 pm

An amused look dominated Blaire's face as she waited for the implications of Benga's question to hit him. It didn't take long and though his heart was in the right place when he had asked it he looked very much embarrassed.

"Why, Benga, are you secretly a little pervert?" she teased lightly.

She chuckled, shaking her head and waving a dismissive hand at him. Blaire could take it from here until he got back. If she needed help she could always call on Ifrit or Shiva to help.

"Don't worry! Go take a shower and relax a little, alright?"

Blaire took the time to start tugging off her boots, carefully loosening the one over her injured ankle as much as she could. She'd just toss them on the floor for the time being until she needed to put them on again.

"Besides, knowing you you'll be back before I'm done," she mentioned. It was no secret Blaire liked to enjoy a hot shower or bath when she could. She always had. Even if she meant to be quick about it she usually took longer than intended.

----[x]----

Weavile's huffing and rueful glances Lance's way were hard to ignore though he managed it. He'd let the Pokemon express dislike in him all he liked. Lance wasn't too concerned about it for the time being.

From the corner of his eye he saw Layla fussing with her sleeve, looking unnerved. Lance did not comment on this. The last thing he needed was to force answers out of Layla for any habits she may have. It was not his business unless she was injured.

"It's nothing," he reassured, turning his attention back to the buildings around them.

It didn't take long after that to locate the library. It was a small building compared to the others but Layla would be able to find something inside if she took the time to look. He stopped outside the steps with her, digging for Dragonite's pokeball.

"As promised," Lance said, releasing the large Pokemon. He blinked around, flapping his small wings momentarily before looking down at the two.

"You'll be escorting Layla. If anyone attempts any harm or any such behavior that she does not agree to than you are free to attack."

A low keening from Dragonite was the answer, the Pokemon looking quite determined.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 2:13 pm

Benga felt his cheeks inflame over her teasing. He knew that she'd say these things but he was still caught off guard over it. He cleared his throat, attempting to reign in his composure.

He watched as she tried to tug her boots off. She seemed fine for the moment. Benga cleared his throat again, moving toward the door a little.

"I'll come back soon then," he responded, turning the door knob. "Try not to injure yourself further." He jested, knowing fully well that misfortune seemed to like following her without her notice.

With that said, he pushed his way out into the hall again. He'd move to his own room and take a quick shower, washing the sewer stink off of him. Benga would linger in his own room for a little while, just to make sure that he wouldn't be barging in on Blaire.

----[x]----

Layla blinked up at the Dragonite. Indeed, it didn't take too long for anyone who would have thought to shoot a leer their way to reconsider. Some even made sure to give a wider birth.

She reached out, patting his side lightly. Layla hoped, as with his Dragonair, that he wouldn't mind this motion. Layla liked to get close to any Pokemon she could, especially of those whom she knew. It was simply affair but she'd rather not overstep her boundaries if anyone grew uncomfortable.

"You'll be off then?" She inquired lightly. "How long do you expect to be gone?"

Layla knew that if she found a good book, she could easily lose herself in it. As such, she didn't quite expect to move anywhere else in the city, much less wanted to.

She never cared for cities like this, after all. They were too busy, too many people. It could leave her paranoid over simple things.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 2:30 pm

"Yeah, yeah," she called after Benga as he left.

It took her a little longer than usual to get up and make her way over to what few clothes she had. Tugging out a change she limped her way carefully to the bathroom. They were small rooms, so as not to take up too much space in Mount Moon.

When she was finally in the bath Blaire was quick to wash, eager to get the smell off of her, however faint it might have been at the time. It was never a pleasant scent, no matter how dulled it became.

Blaire wasn't sure how long she stayed, as usual loosing herself in her thoughts and allowing the warm water to help her ankle as much as it could. When she finally did get out it was only because she had grown too warm.

It was a hazard getting dressed, tugging on a pair of leggings and shorts with ankle in its condition. At one point she very nearly toppled over, catching herself at the last moment and possibly bruising her arm. She exited soon after, running her hands through her damp hair leaving it loose for the time being.

----[x]----

Dragonite glanced down curiously at Layla as she stroked at his side, his head tilting curiously. Like Lance he was a little harder to get close to and merely wondered at Layla's ministrations.

Lance observed this for a moment before he would answer Layla's question. "It might take an hour or two. Lorelei's not one who is ever in a rush."

He shook his head at that, turning and making his way back down the steps. His cape twirled in the air after him, any sort of a breeze catching it and tossing it up a little higher.

"I'll be back to find you after," he called over his shoulder, lifting his hand in a lazy fashion.

Dragonite scratched his stomach, watching his trainer leave. After a moment he turned to Layla and Weavile and grunted, his tail sliding over the top step as he waited for her to lead the way inside.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 3:13 pm

When Benga saw fit that he had waited a long enough time, he moved out of his room and toward Blaire's again. He wondered if she had fared alright with her ankle. The woman liked to do things on her own and didn't quite care to be fussed over her helped.

He waited outside her door for a moment before knocking. He wouldn't barge in as he normally did. Only when he was given the okay to go in did he push his way inside.

"Didn't hurt yourself, did ya?" He attempted to jest, smoothing back his own hair. It was a bit of a mess after his shower.

Benga watched for any kind of tell that she might be in pain. He didn't quite care to see her that way. They'd know each other for so long, in a sense, he was rather protective over her well being. Silently, they both knew that fact.

"You look pleased to be clean though," he plowed on, shooting her a smirk.

Despite her tom boyish disposition, there were points when even she didn't care to be so dirty. Not that he blamed her. Trekking through the sewers more times than they needed to, he understood that discomfort.

Crossing his arms over his chest, he shifted his weight from one leg to the other a little. He glanced about. The room was rather plain, though, most of them were. This was normal. There was no way to retrieve all of the belongs that people wanted to keep. Their homes were normally razed in attacks as it was.

"So..." he paused a moment. "What did you want to talk about?"

Benga was curious, ever since this small change between them had set them off a tad. He figured this might be the subject. Still, he couldn't be entirely sure until she spoke up about it herself.

----[x]----

Layla noted his words, expecting to see him again within a couple of hours. Any longer and she'd figure this Lorelei might have kept him. Why she felt a pang of jealousy run through her at that thought, she could only assume.

As he left, she turned her attention on the Dragonite and smiled. "You seem quite a bit like Lance," She noted lightly. She heard Crux huff at the statement. "Still, I hope we can be friends, yes?"

Layla took a moment before she pushed her way into to library. It was a quiet place compared to the outside. Libraries normally were unless children were running about. She found quite a bit of peace of mind here.

Layla took her time picking through the shelves, waving off any person who asked if she needed help. She was specific with what she read and recommendations often led her to disappointment.

Crux took to hopping on the shelves himself, settling on one before Layla moved again. He'd follow her through any opening he could find, before hoping on her shoulder and onto another shelf. This process was repeated as long as the employees didn't scold him for it.

When she was satisfied, she'd find a place to sit and start to read during the wait. Occasionally, she'd pause to pat Crux or Dragonite. She worried that she might over step her boundaries with the large dragon. He made no motion toward, so she figured it was alright for a time.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 3:34 pm

Blaire was quick to flop onto her bad, drawing her one leg up to her. She ran her hand through her hair again, attempting to get all of the water out so that it could all dry faster. She scoffed at Benga's jest, not bothering to mention she had nearly fallen earlier.

"I'm fine," she pressed, shooting him a light look.

At the mention of talking again Blaire shuffled a little, unsure of how to start. While she wasn't one to be subtle in what she needed talking about how she felt was an entirely foreign concept to her. Blaire never knew how to explain things or even how to start.

After a moment she gestured for Benga to sit next to her. The least she could do was offer it so that he wasn't standing around all the time.

"Maybe we could talk about last night?" she finally spit out, perhaps a little shyer than she had intended.

It had been one of a few instances in the last few months were she had felt that stirring in her chest around Benga or in response to something he had done for her. It had just been the most recent however and the clearest in her mind.

----[x]----

Dragonite seemed to mumble under his breath at Layla's observation, shambling after her. He was very much like Lance, having grown up with him since they were both 'children' so to speak. He had been at Lance's side sine he was a Dratini, after all.

Inside Dragonite shook himself at the air conditioned atmosphere inside the library though ignored it otherwise. He kept faithfully at Layla's side as Lance had told him, too, keeping an eye on anyone nearby. He was quite an intimidating Pokemon and any who would seek to harm Lance's charge would not get past him.

He remained polite, however, to those who merely came to ask if Layla needed any help. Despite his appearance Dragonite had manners.

At times he even took to watching the Weavile leap about the shelves and off of Layla's shoulders. He vaguely wondered if Weavile's claws ever snagged into Layla's skin and injured her or if Weavile avoided heights to avoid that.

Once Layla sat he grunted as he plopped down a little forcefully next to her seat, tucking his tail around him and keeping watch as usual.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 3:59 pm

Benga dismissed her stressed words, knowing that she had fully done this out of annoyance. Still, he could remain concerned, whether she liked it or not. If anything, she knew that to be fact but they often didn't voice it.

Upon her elaborating on what she wanted to talk about, he felt his heart pick up pace a little. He coughed in his fist, turning his head slightly. So he'd been right in thinking that's what was on her mind.

He would have been lying if he said it wasn't on his own. Still, he wasn't sure how to go about the situation entirely.

Benga puffed out a large sigh, moving forward to sit on her bed after a moment. He ran a hand through his hair, again, unsure of how to go about the subject. It left them both rather awkward as far as he could assume. Neither seemed sure of where to start.

"Well...I...I guess that's alright," he finally spoke up, scratching his cheek awkwardly. "I'm...not sure how to go about it..."

Despite being blunt with their feelings in normal situations, Benga found that neither he nor Blaire seemed to know where to begin. He felt his cheeks warming and tried to will it away. It refused to allow him that luxury however, and the silence between them remained for a time.

----[x]----

Layla wasn't sure how much time had passed by. She hadn't sat anywhere near a clock and she didn't care to get up just to look. She remained rather quiet, reading the words on the pages.

During this time, the world beyond her books seemed irreverent, seemed to slow. She was well within her own thoughts, turning the pages carefully. If trouble was arising, she didn't take notice. Dragonite and Crux remained on look out.

Despite herself, she couldn't shake her mind off the bold move she'd made toward Lance. It left her heart pounding every time she had thought of it. Even trying to quash those feeling didn't seem to help her. She gnawed at the inside of her lip, attempting to focus on what was in front of her.

Once in a while, she would feel herself grow a little tired. She'd rub at her eyes to keep herself awake. The night before she hadn't gotten quite enough sleep though, not for lack of trying. The events that played out simply kept her from doing as such.

She wondered how long it would be until she truly felt safe under another gaze or alone in her room.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 4:14 pm

Blaire bit at her lip, just as unsure as Benga on how to approach the subject. She wasn't sure how many minutes ticked by in silence. Blaire had no clock in her room of any sort. She was not often in the base long enough to need one there.

Feeling her heart racing, seemingly with no intent on slowing down any time soon, she spared Benga a quick glance.

"Well," she started slowly, fiddling with her hands, "w-what do you think of it...?"

It was the only way she could think to start in on something. Blaire didn't quite like the idea of just letting the topic die because neither knew how to approach it. No, if that happened Blaire felt like it would continue as it had with both feeling awkward and frustrated over it.

The least they could do was clear the air with that topic. It didn't take a genius to know that they both felt that strange stirring and bashfulness, especially after last night.

----[x]----

Dragonite took to entertaining himself with his tail. He would slide it at Weavile, the small Pokemon giving him an indignant look the first time as he had to jump over the large appendage to avoid tripping. Dragonite merely snickered before he did it again, initiating a strange game of jump rope between the two.

The time seemed to pass a little quicker for them this way, occasionally glancing about for any threat. No one in the library seemed apt to try and get close to Layla or harm her. Likewise Layla seemed engrossed in the book she had in her hands now.

Whispers could be heard occasionally, one such conversation between a group of teenage girls having to be quieted by a nearby librarian, along with the sounds of the pages turning. Every now and again Dragonite caught a glance shot their way, curious and observing both Pokemon.

With this the dragon relaxed. All they had to do was wait for Lance to return as there was no trouble to be had.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 4:42 pm

Benga cleared his throat. What did he think of it? He didn't even know where to start and remained silent for quite some time. There was no place he could find to begin explaining. Neither seemed to know what they were speaking of or understanding.

Finally, he gave a shrug of his shoulder. "I...really don't know." He answered after a moment. "It's...different...I guess. Not something that...happens with...anyone else..."

The pauses he took made him cringe a little. Benga wasn't used to being this hesitant on things. He didn't care to admit that sometimes he had to. At this point, he was simply at a loss of words and understanding. He didn't like it but didn't know how to approach it either.

"It's made us both awkward as hell, I can say that much." He muttered in an attempt to jest.

Benga pushed his hair out of his face. Indeed, it had left them at a loss for words, unsure of what they were feeling. Benga hated that kind of thing. He was always someone who was rather sure of himself. Now? He couldn't even begin to express what he was feeling.

It left him too unsure and that frustrated him a little.

----[x]----

Layla drew her attention away from her book once in a while, catching sight of Dragonite and Crux doing their best to keep themselves entertained. She smiled at this. Despite his time away from Layla, she was finding more and more that Crux seemed rather unaffected by their time apart.

She glanced outside, watching through on of the bigger windows. The sun was beginning it's early descent, as it always did in fall and winter months. Evening would draw on them very soon.

She had been surprised by how much time had passed sitting there. Layla found it was easy to lose track of the time in these situations, at least, for her that had been the issue. Even when she was tired.

Layla wondered what Lance had to speak to Lorelei about. She tried to put her mind off it. He'd tell her if he needed or wanted to. Still, jealousy tugged at her again and she did her best to ignore it. She hated feeling jealous of others, so aware of it that it sometimes made her feel guilty.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Jan 30, 2013 4:59 pm

Blaire listened patiently as Benga had to all put spit out the words. It seemed he had no inkling as to how to go about explaining it either. That alone made her feel a little better. She had worried for awhile that it was just her.

She ducked her head, a quiet chuckle escaping her at Benga's attempt to lighten the mood. She had expected it she had just been wondering what form it would take.

"Yeah," she agreed, biting at her lip and tossing Benga a quick glance. He seemed to be trying to hide his own bashfulness, keeping his face turned from hers.

Hesitantly she reached out, slipping her arm through his and burying her own red face into his shoulder. "But I... I think I kinda like it," she relented after amount, feeling her own heart beat harder against her ribs. Blaire couldn't be sure how Benga felt about it all, he had a knack for getting easily frustrated with things that he didn't understand.

After a moment she tried to plow on, well aware that she had to pause and pick her words as she did so. "Seems like it's... it's something that's been happening for awhile...."

----[x]----

Lance snorted, readjusting the cap on his shoulders. The wind was doing all it could to tug it right off, having picked up over the short time he had been out. Saffron City might have been due for a bit of rain if the dark clouds in the distance were any indication.

His mood had been a little soured by Lorelei. She had nothing new to report only that Bruno was, yet again, off training away from civilization. Everything else had been obnoxious prodding into what he had been doing in Genesis' stronghold and that she had heard he had picked up an assistant.

Another snort left him at that. He didn't care to be reminded of Lorelei's habit of toying with people.

The library could be seen up ahead and he quickened his pace. They'd have to find Layla a jacket soon. He had spotted a store not far from here that was still open for a couple of hours longer. Lance had no doubt that the shirt she was in now would not stand the cold winds.

A bell rang above announcing his entrance as he pushed his way in. It was an easy thing to spot Dragonite playing with Weavile. He shook his head at this, snorting in amusement.

"I see you've made yourselves comfortable," he said, keeping his voice low out of politeness to the other residents inside.