[PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN]

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Feb 05, 2013 2:58 pm

Lance scoffed, though it was not out of annoyance. Instead it seemed that Layla's mood was, in fact, improving. It was a nice step in the right direction, especially after earlier. Lance did not care for a repeat of that. He wasn't one who enjoyed losing his temper and tried to keep it in check when at all times possible.

"Do I not have a reason to be?" he prodded.

It was quiet for a moment after that and Lance allowed his thoughts to run free for a short while. It wasn't until Layla spoke up again did he chuckle, tossing yet another look her way.

"And you seem strangely affectionate when you need warmth."

He ignored the way Weavile glared at him for his comments. It wouldn't do to get into it with the Pokemon. Besides, Lance figured it would be a trivial thing and would only upset Layla further. It looked like Weavile begrudgingly understood that as well as he only took to shooting Lance baleful looks.

Lance turned his gaze around them, still seeking a place to make camp for awhile. They couldn't very well continue in the rain like this with Layla shivering as she was. Up ahead there was a clearing past the trees and he wondered if there would be some place there to use for shelter.

----[x]----

Blaire curiously glanced at Benga, catching sight of a rather disappointed expression crossing his face. She blinked, wondering if she had imagined it as she had turned around. One minute it was there and the next it was gone. Maybe it had been a trick of the light?

She snorted, instead focusing on his answer. At least he was well aware of their situation with everybody else. Blaire honestly wasn't looking forward to seeing those looks. No doubt some of them might look triumphant at knowing what they hadn't for so long.

"At least you're not one to take a fool's bet," she teased, her head tilting to one side as she did.

A chuckle escaped her at Benga's assurance of his grandpa's reaction. Blaire wasn't so sure he'd take it that route though she figured Alder would most likely find a cause to 'celebrate' with it. Then again sometimes the old man was full of surprises. She wouldn't put it past him to 'flip out' over something like this.

Blaire shuffled closer to Benga, wrapping her arms around his shoulders in a tentative hug. She smiled up at Benga, wondering for the umpteenth time in past years just how he had managed to get taller than her. Hesitantly she brushed her fingers along his hair at the back of his neck. She had never taken to really playing with it before, only tugging at it on more playful occasions and she knew he hated it. Blaire had to wonder what he would think of this route.

"You know he'll be super psyched for you," she murmured. "Don't even pretend he won't be!"

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Feb 05, 2013 4:42 pm

Layla shrugged her shoulders slightly in response to his first question. He did seem confident before, but it wasn't toward her. He had that kind of mentality to not be shaken when others would have been. The man was rather confident from where she could see. This however, was a different kind.

"It's a different kind of confidence," she responded, her gaze fixated on the clearing. She wasn't sure if she was seeing smoke billowing into the air or if her eyes were playing tricks on her.

At his next statement, Layla mulled the words over. She swore, her cheeks must have turned rosier with each passing thought. Layla had been one to cuddle, over the years she had grown a little more confident to speak with people. She liked hugs and cuddles and would exploit it. Most of all, she liked the warmth another could provide. If she had nothing else, she would cuddle stuffed animals or pillows at night.

She ducked her head again, her cheeks feeling blazing warm. "I...like to cuddle...so I..."

Layla felt an incredibly amount of bashfulness fall onto her with that confession. Why she did, she wasn't even sure. Thinking on it, she had to wonder if that might have been part of the reason she snuck into his bed over night. It left her in an even more bashful state.

She cleared her throat, making attempts to calm herself down. "I think I see smoke..." She finally muttered, lifting her head again. Despite the misty day, it could still be seen. She had to wonder if anyone had made a house out here or was at least taking up shelter themselves.

----[x]----

Benga didn't tense this time when she wrapped her arms around him. He was growing a little more used to it though, his heart pounded in his chest in response. Somethings weren't going to break easy. This was one he was sure he'd be feeling for quite some time.

He had to admit, it felt a little bit different to have his hair played with in a manner that wasn't meant to do him harm. Blaire had used his hair to pull at when she was annoyed or just to annoy him. It was quite a different routine for him. He couldn't deny that he liked it, however.

"No, he'd be totally psyched." He agreed. "I think the minute he finds out, he might throw a party."

Benga would expect as such. Alder was the type of man to do it, especially if he knew that it would cause them to be bashful about it. They would be in for a boat load of teasing in the long run, he simply had to prepare for it.

Hesitantly, he wrapped his arms around her waist, keeping her close to him. That now familiar warmth was very much welcome between them.

"Suppose I'll at least have someone to share that with," he muttered a little more bashful.

Benga wondered when he'd be able to reign in his composure completely. It was an odd thing and it had only been a few hours. Still, he wondered if it would always be like this. There was a part of him that wouldn't so much mind it if it was.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Feb 05, 2013 6:04 pm

Keeping his gaze forward he took note to a thin, dying stream of smoke rising in the air between the trees. Had someone found some place sheltered enough to light a fire? Or had they foolishly attempted to light damp wood and leaves in a vain attempt? He frowned thoughtfully at this, wondering who might be up ahead.

When Lance spoke he kept his voice a little quieter, just in case the person or Pokemon in the clearing ahead might be hostile. "Perhaps you are learning something new about me then, hmm?" he offered.

As they grew closer to the area, no movement yet discernible through the trees, he glance at Layla. He smirked at her red-face, a deep chuckle rising from him despite his efforts to stop it. He should have assumed that Layla was the shy type from what he knew of her thus far. Really, it was kind of endearing in a way.

"Well, no wonder you crawled into my bed last night," he taunted lightly.

He slowed his steps, keeping his hand at Layla's back as they neared the clearing edge. Whoever might beat the source of the fire still could not be seen. Had he or she walked off? If so where did they go and what were their intentions?

----[x]----

Blaire smiled, still toying with the ends of Benga's hair as he returned the embrace, if a little hesitantly. Despite the fact that Benga was still unused to doing such simple things Blaire felt her chest fill with that same warmth from before.

She chuckled at the idea of Alder throwing a party over the fact that his grandson had a girlfriend. It was definitely something she could see the man trying to do to varying degrees of success.

"Of course," she agreed, head tilting to one side.

It was quiet for a moment, her fingers still twisting and running through his wild hair idly. Blaire felt her smile turn a little more bashful. She still found Benga to look too entirely adorable when he was timid. It seemed like it would be something that she would be able to witness for awhile until he was able to grow used to being so close to her.

"You're still entirely too cute, you know," Blaire mentioned, watching Benga for his reaction.

She couldn't help but to prod at him a little bit before they did finally venture out in the midst of the other rebels and their Pokemon. Blaire couldn't be sure how Benga wanted to approach things around others, after all. While she was willing to hug or hold hands she couldn't know how Benga felt until it happened. He may very well be a little too shy to do that in front of others, after all.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Feb 05, 2013 7:38 pm

Layla felt her heart skip a beat as he spoke again. She was learning something, if it was only a small something. Part of her was glad for it, quashing the other half that tried to combat her. She didn't want to feel so guilty over the issue but it often rose when she least expected it.

His next words only made her awkwardness grow. Her face warmed again and she kept her vision away in attempts to hide her face. She knew he would have picked up on that fact. Still, her heart fluttered, even as he chuckled.

"I'd...like to stay close to you like that," she mentioned, her voice rather soft. "As long as you don't mind it..."

Layla didn't want to invade his space. She couldn't deny that she liked to be close to him, even after the quarrel. It was something of a comfort for her, she found, and a little of something else too. That particular feeling, she was still attempting to understand.

As they came upon the clearing, Layla lifted her head again. She was a little dismayed to find the area abandoned. Whoever had set up camp had been attacked.

"They left in a hurry," she noted. "Wasn't the smartest place to make a fire though."

She had to wonder how long ago that had been. Had it been the time they had fought and recover? Or before that point? There was no telling. It hadn't been too long ago, that's the only thing she could figure from the condition of the area.

----[x]----

Benga snorted a little though, it wasn't out of annoyance. The thought of his grandfather throwing a party, much less others going along with it, left him rather bashful. If they hadn't known some of these people for so long, it might have been a little less of an issue for either of them. That was not the case, however.

Benga felt his cheeks warm again as she complimented him. He turned his head, rubbing the back of his head slightly. He wasn't used to hearing that one quite so often.

"I'm not cute," he shot back, turning his head toward something else. His cheeks inflamed again, leaving his face warm. "You are...though."

He hated admitting that he hadn't really noticed until now. He hadn't noticed quite a few things about her until this point. In a way, it was liking meeting a new person. He wasn't sure how he felt about that fact.

Benga cleared his throat, trying to calm himself down again. If they would be moving out and about anytime soon, he felt he would need to calm down. He didn't need to give anyone ammo yet about their relationship taking a new turn. They'd never hear the end of it if someone found out now.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Feb 05, 2013 8:26 pm

Why his heart leaped, picking up a rapid pace at Layla's confession Lance couldn't say. If there had been any reaction on his face to this he hid it well quickly after. The last thing he needed was for Layla to find something to prod at him about. He prided himself too much for that to happen easily.

"We'll see," he answered lightly enough, sparing her another look.

She was intent on keeping her gaze away from his this time and he chuckled again at this fact.

He sobered as soon as they entered the clearing, glancing around. No one was there but for the smoldering remains of damp kindling. It hadn't lit at all besides to smoke and give away the person's position.

Lance hummed in answer to her observation. There were areas in the ground were deep gouges had been formed and even large footsteps. It might have just been a wayward trainer that did follow Genesis' laws that had been caught up in the rampage of a wild Pokemon however Lance couldn't rule out a rebel being driven off either.

"Ordinarily rebels are smarter than to light a fire," he noted, if only to drive the conversation forward. "It could be a new trainer, out on his or her own that got caught up in something they shouldn't have."

----[x]----

Blaire chuckled a little at Benga's bashfulness. Then again it wasn't as if anyone actively went about complimenting his appearance. For as long as she had known him Blaire could only ever recall people talking about his rambunctious personality or how wild his appearance was. It must have been something drastically new to hear.

She blinked, her face flushing and her train of thought momentarily forgotten as Benga shot her compliment back at her instead. It didn't last too long, as her attention was focused back on Benga. He was refusing to look back at her, his face bright red again.

"Well, maybe I think you're cute," she carried on, pushing her face a little closer to Benga's.

She waited for his response, keeping close to him. Despite the fact that they had intended to get up and moving it seemed Blaire already had a habit of getting them sidetracked with one another. Then again, at the moment Blaire didn't mind it so much. She wondered if Benga did or not, though.

Blaire could feel her heart beating fast against her ribs, wondering how Benga might respond. She had to resist giving him another kiss for good measure, if only because they really did need to get moving soon.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Feb 05, 2013 10:27 pm

Layla wasn't sure of the warmth the spread through her at the words. She felt it wouldn't so much be an invasion if he allowed it. Part of her grew a little excited over that fact though she did her best to ignore it for a time. This wasn't the place to be focusing on it.

She glanced about the area, wondering what had happened and listening as he spoke. Whoever it had been seemed to have abandoned the area. Not that Layla could blame them. With Genesis wandering about, it wouldn't have been a good area for a new trainer much less an experienced one.

Layla hummed lightly in response. "That wouldn't surprise me too much."

In her time with others from Genesis, she had seen them exploit their power. Even if those who had followed their law, some didn't care. She had seen some rather sickening sights because of this fact. Genesis abused their power when they wanted to.

She grew nervous, thinking Genesis might even be within the area. Clutching the back of his coat, she blinked up at him. "Maybe we should keep going." She suggested.

She didn't want to stay here. Not when there was a possibility that Genesis was around. Even with Lance with her, it made her uncomfortable.

----[x]----

Benga finally turned his head to watch her again. The warmth on his cheeks was still there. She remained close to him, her breath fanning over his cheek for a moment. Benga cleared his throat lightly, that warm feeling spreading over him again. His awkwardness didn't seem to be quite as important or noticeable now.

He leaned forward in attempts to catch her off guard, pecking her lips before pulling back, grinning at her expression.

"We better get going," he plowed on. "Before we stay here all day."

It wasn't like they already had. The time was nearly two at this point. They'd spent most of their day holed up in this one room, simply enjoying each other's presence. Benga found he hadn't quite minded that fact. These were new experiences for the both of them.

"Need me to carry you?" he prodded a little afterward. "Or are you getting too dizzy? Are you gonna faint?"

He couldn't help but pick at her a little. There were so few times she had been awkward. It was interesting to see how she reacted. Part of him wanted to exploit it, use it for later days.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Tue Feb 05, 2013 10:44 pm

Lance remained for a moment, still observing the area for any other possible idea as to what had happened. He didn't care for the idea that a rebel that could let Clair know he was seeking her out might be near. Still, Layla seemed insistent on leaving, casting furtive glances about the area and pushing closer to Lance's side.

"Perhaps you are over thinking things," Lance offered. Never-the-less he started walking again, leading them out of the small clearing whee the signs of a battle and a hasty chase were located. "It could very well be a territorial Pokemon."

It amazed Lance at times, how often people forgot about the Pokemon and their personalities and instincts. Most people were so focused on Genesis and anyone who might turn them in or try and use or abuse them in turn that they forgot to watch out for wild Pokemon. If any number of people were aware of how many people succumbed to territorial Pokemon in the past few months heads would spin.

"You're thinking a little too narrowly, really," he carried on, sparing her a quick glance. "Though I suppose it's something to expect given your history...."

He would leave it lie at that. It wasn't that he was attempting to prod at Layla. Instead he wanted her to be able to examine all of the possibilities, not just one.

----[x]----

Blaire blinked, caught entirely off guard by Benga catching her in a quick kiss. Here she had been thinking about how bashful he might be if she had caught him up in another only for him to pull the very idea on her. Still, she couldn't deny that her heart fluttered pleasantly at the contact, however brief it was.

"W-well! You've gotten bold q-quick!" she shot back, attempting to recompose herself. It was a little difficult when Benga continued prodding at her so easily.

The surprise kiss left Blaire fumbling for a good retort to his teasing, his arms still around her waist and keeping her close. She had been intending to ask Ifrit to help her out throughout the day though Blaire saw no harm in seeing what Benga might do if she said otherwise.

"You sound entirely too eager to carry a cute girl around!" she shot back a little lamely, resisting wincing at it. By the look on Benga's face he was well aware that she had no real combat for the time being. "Or is that your big plan? Get me so dizzy you can sweep me off my feet, hmm?"

She couldn't help but chuckle at the thought. Sure, Benga had carried her around on his back plenty of times before but that was more childish or simply helping her get around while she was healing. It was a little difficult for Blaire to imagine him scooping anyone up and running off with 'em.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 12:47 am

Layla felt a little hurt by the words, even as they moved on. She was flighty for more than one reason. Still, at least he seemed to attempt to acknowledge that much. It didn't make it hurt any less however and she drew silent for a time again.

The rain refused to let up and from what Layla found, it seemed to be growing harder steadily. She couldn't cease any shivers that would wrack her frame time. She tried to focus on finding a place to duck down into rather than focus on the words he had said.

Eventually, she spotted something that look like an opening. She squinted her eyes, pointing toward it. It was rather covered with dead foliage but she thought she saw spaces in the rocks that might have been a sign of a cave.

"I think that's a cave." She muttered. "Might try it to duck out of the rain."

Layla didn't admit it out loud but if it went on like this, she feared getting ill. She wished she wasn't so bothered by the cold like she used to be. Getting soaked through didn't help their situation at hand. With her condition as it was, she would have hated adding something else on top of it to slow them down.

----[x]----

Benga couldn't help but grin as he caught her off guard. The fact that she stumbled over her words made a sense of pride fill in his chest. He wasn't sure why he felt so happy over it. It wasn't so much success. He simply felt happy that he could get her to react in such a manner.

"Something told me you would have done the same to me if I didn't take it up first," he shot back, reaching up to tug at her hair lightly.

He shook his head, grinning down at her. He was a little antsy to get out and about now. They'd been sitting around most of the day. He saw no reason not to move about. Even if these bashful times arose for other rebels to see, it wouldn't be like they could hide it forever. So, he turned, helping her onto his back.

"Maybe that was my plan all along," he jested back once she was situation. "Or maybe not. I've never been good at the planning thing."

Regardless, Benga moved out of the room and into the hallways. The hall was relatively empty aside from an occasional passerby. When they got into the main halls, he knew that they would be seeing more people very quickly.

"Where to first?" He inquired a moment after. "See your Pokemon?"

Benga would allow her to choose. They both typically liked to wander anyways. It didn't really matter where they headed as long as they had something to do.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 1:19 am

Lance grew agitated as they trekked through the muddy forest. Damp piles of leaves and logs in the way were a hindrance and occasionally Lance had to make sure he did not slip. The fact that the rain was growing harder only added to this distaste.

Hearing Layla speak up about a cave he looked to where she pointed. It was mostly covered over with thriving shrubbery. No doubt these plants would last through the winter for Pokemon to feast on or use as cover. Experimentally he pulled a chunk back to peer inside.

"It doesn't look as if it's inhabited up to the entrance," he noted.

Lance spared a glance at Layla and Weavile. She looked put-off again. He wondered if his comments earlier had done more harm than good. He supposed now wasn't the time to think too much into it however.

Knowing how cautious she was, he reached for his pokeballs and released the Dragonair that favored Layla. The long dragon trilled, uncoiling herself gratefully. Rain never bothered Dragonair but it was the cold that worried Lance when concerning his dragons.

"If you could be so kind as to check inside for any wild Pokemon....?"

Keening Dragonair nudged Layla joyously before slithering inside to double check the contents of the cave.

----[x]----

Blaire pouted, a little agitated that he had guessed as to what she had been planning. Still, she should have expected it. Though they were both learning new things about the other through these interactions it didn't mean that Benga couldn't guess due to everything he already knew about her.

"Since when do heroes need plans, right?" she teased after she was on his back, slipping her arms comfortably around Benga's neck.

Benga was quick to make it out into the hallway, easily slipping past rebels that might be in their way. It had been often that Blaire had been carried on his back and Benga had long since gotten used to the added weight - at least it always seemed that way. If she ever got too heavy he never complained about.

She nodded to his question. It was a given, really. The two had been so caught up with each other that time had slipped by.

"Yeah. Then maybe something to eat and we can wander around after," she planned out loud, glancing at Benga afterwards. "Sound good?"

Part of her was growing antsy herself, though she would do her best to take it easy with her ankle in the shape it was. She had no doubts that Benga might keep an eye on her in case of any recklessness on her part while she healed anyways. Still, she was getting a little restless being carried everywhere, too.

"You know, if I get too heavy just say something, alright?"

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 1:52 am

Layla spared a smile down at Dragonair, patting her before she moved into the cave. She clenched her jaw afterward, doing her best to not let herself chatter. It was an annoying sound for not only her but others around her. She had hated doing it in the past and repressed attempting to do it now, even if her body wanted her to do it.

While they waited, she shifted slightly though did not pull herself from Lance's side. She might have been put off by his words but that didn't mean that she wanted to be away from him. Things were drastically different between them. She was flighty for many reason and would duck out of fights regardless of the circumstance.

Still, their level of communication wasn't all that great either. She found if she let it eat away at her, she might just end fighting with him again. She glanced at her feet, fighting off the shivers that wracked her body.

"That hurt...you know." She finally uttered the words. "Not to say you're not right...but it still hurt."

Part of her wondered if this would help. If him understanding how frail she could be emotionally might do them both good. She had always been rather sensitive. The abuse only seemed to have made that fact worse. While she hated it at times, she couldn't quite work her way to fix it yet.

----[x]----

Benga listened to the plan without complaint. He figured she'd want to at least get something to eat at some point. Neither of them had eaten since getting back to the base. Benga's immediate concerns were on her health, after all. He didn't want to put something like that off.

"Sounds good to me," he responded, sending her a quick smile.

Pushing through the crowds would have been difficult for new comers. Benga had been doing this long enough in the past few months that it wasn't much of a bother anymore. He knew when to move to the side or weave through without much trouble. Blaire being on his back was a very little hindrance in his opinion.

"You're not heavy," He reassured. "You never have been. You're a stick, remember." He laughed a little at the jest.

Benga moved toward the center. They would wait a bit before Nurse Joy allowed them to see her Pokemon again. It was normally busy during the day, especially with people coming back into the base. Things like this become normal, as much as Benga hated to admit it.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 2:11 am

It was some minutes spent in silence as Dragonair scoured the cave for any threat. Inside he could hear a few Zubat protesting lazily and even a Golbat called out to Dragonair at one point before she drew too deep into the cave to hear any other responses. Lance shifted his weight from foot to foot as the wait drew longer. He couldn't get any more wet though he still detested the rain that poured on them.

His attention was brought to Layla when she spoke up, a little hesitantly on the matter. He observed her for a minute, taking note of the way she glanced away, as if afraid of his response.

Lance took a moment to mull over an answer, one that would hopefully not sour her mood or hurt her in anyway. He found that he wasn't so used to tiptoeing about like this. The thought occurred to him that he would have to more often if Layla was to be taken into account.

"I see." A pause followed and it almost looked as if he was chewing on the words he was planning on saying. "And what would you propose I do instead?"

It wouldn't hurt to figure out things from her perspective, Lance figured. At least he hoped it would be that way. Who knew what would really happen? For all Lance could know Layla wouldn't even begin to have a decent answer for him.

----[x]----

She was quick to return the smile Benga flashed her way. Blaire was quiet for a moment, taking stock of all the rebels out and about. It was no surprise that so many were wandering around and getting their work done when they could. It was already well into the afternoon as it was.

She snorted at Benga's retort. Blaire couldn't help it. The mention of being scrawny enough to be equated to a stick only brought about the fact that Benga had a peculiar habit of carrying a hoard of thick sticks around in his pack as it was.

"Well, I suppose that's no biggie then, huh?" she teased, catching Benga's eye. "You're well known for wandering around with a pack of sticks!"

She chuckled, sobering a little when they did reach what passed as the center. They would have to wait awhile to get in and see Kujo and Cerberus. Blaire hated that it had to be that way, that so many people's Pokemon were injured badly enough to necessitate visits like this.

Blaire rested her chin along Benga's shoulder. After too long she dipped her head, placing a light kiss at his shoulder. To anyone just walking by it would only have looked as if she had momentarily hid her face.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 2:46 am

Layla was glad that he was approaching it all so carefully. A few days before, that might not have been the case. What was worse was it was cold and she was already emotionally drained for a time. She simply didn't want to waste anymore energy on being upset.

She shrugged her shoulders lightly in response. "I've always been pretty easy to hurt." She explained. "Contrary to popular belief."

The fact that Genesis had taken the rebellious side of her as her normal personality is what often had her wondering. They latched onto the simplest thing, using excuses to harm her in many ways. Layla had discovered how lowly some of them were. They didn't really know her, they just knew the side that had fought back in vain.

"Little things cut deeper than it would for most people...especially coming from people I care about..."

Layla felt a little bashful to admit that fact. She hadn't thought she could grow so close to him in the given time but she felt she had. It was rather strange in her mind, going from fearing him to wanting to stay by him. She wondered if he felt the same way.

----[x]----

Benga couldn't help but laugh a little at the comment she had sent his way. He should have seen that coming. He had always carried sticks around when he was kid, never went without them. There had been many questions as to why he often did. Benga had many reasons and would rattle them off proudly as if it was his life's work.

Waiting around wasn't so awkward. This kind of thing happened once or twice. He had to will his face not to warm too much when Blaire ducked down, placing a small kiss on his shoulder. His heart fluttered in response to this and he gave a slight smile in return.

Eventually, they were able to see the two Pokemon. Benga walked in quietly, not wanting to raise his voice or make too much of a racket as he had done that night. He often had trouble keeping quiet, though, he was loathe to admit it.

He grinned at the two Pokemon however, as they seemed happy to see the pair. "Hey guys." He spoke up cheerfully. "Brought someone to see ya!"

Benga was sure that it would lift their mood knowing Blaire was keeping a close eye on them despite her own injuries. She cared deeply for her Pokemon, after all, and treated them as family.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 3:15 am

Lance was quiet for quite some time as he took in those words. It didn't leave him much room to figure out how to go about mentioning what she might need to focus on in the future. In fact, it left him at a loss as to what he could mention if she needed help. It left him frustrated and he had to do his best to quash it before it got out of hand.

"It seems I'll have to watch myself then," he murmured in reply after awhile. It was the best he could come up with and leaving the quiet to stretch between them might have done more harm than good.

Dragonair was quick to return after that, dirt and grime covering her belly. She must have waded through some water down in the caves to have picked up the amount of grime on her back as well.

"The verdict?" he asked softly, reaching out to pat her affectionately.

His hand lingered over Dragonair's forehead as she trilled, closing her eyes. The power Lance had been born with was easy to tap into anymore. It was ingrained in him, a muscle memory of sorts. His own eyes closed as he focused on the things that Dragonair had seen and heard in the cave. She had gone deep in a short amount of time to see any sort of danger.

After a moment or two he pulled his hand away, allowing Dragonair to sidle up to Layla's side and begin to usher them inside.

"It looks like we've found a spot to hide within."

----[x]----

Kujo and Cerberus were quick to begin showing signs of joy when Benga called out to them. Their ears pricked up and Cerberus was all but ready to leap from his bed. Kujo was still laying down, perhaps his injury kept him in place in fear of pain shooting through from his ribs, though his tail was wagging a mile a minute.

Blaire couldn't help but to grin widely as she saw them, already looking much better despite a few hours having passed. She would not ask to have them leave early unless Nurse Joy brought it up however. While they might have looked better it didn't mean the injuries they sustained couldn't grow worse.

She reached out, heaving to rely almost entirely on Benga to keep her from falling, to pat both Pokemon atop their head lovingly. "Hey, buddies!" she cooed, keeping her voice down. There were a few others in the area as well, visiting sickly or injured Pokemon that looked far worse than her own.

"Sorry we took so long; we got kind of caught up in lazin' about."

It was a roundabout truth, at least. They had very well been laying around doing nothing really productive, at least productive by normal standards. Blaire liked to think that Benga was growing much more comfortable with her affections already. Her heart sped up a little bit as she recalled kissing Benga.

Clearing her throat she pulled her hand back from Kujo, steadying herself on Benga's back. Cerberus was a jealous sort of Pokemon and often needed a little more extra attention or else he would grow put off. Kujo had long since stopped caring about something so minor. Instead the large Arcanine took to surveying the two carefully, his tail still wagging as he did so.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 1:18 pm

Layla let the silence fall between them. She wasn't sure if her explanation helped or not. Given the lack of response, she doubted it had. She wasn't sure how to explain it anymore than that. Eventually, she let herself speak again.

"If you could pour a cup of my feelings, would you bring them to where I desire? If you could, then a drop would be enough. Bring me all of my feelings. Fill it up, right to the brim. Just...be careful not to spill any on the way."

She let silence fall again, waiting on Dragonair. It didn't take too long for the Pokemon to find her way out, covered in dirt and grime. Layla was careful to watch the interaction between Lance and Dragonair. She furrowed her eyebrows, confused by what she had witnessed. Even as Dragonair pulled away, ushering Layla inside, she wanted to halt for answers. Despite that feeling however, she moved inside.

The air in the cave was notably cooler and her shivers reacted more violently because of it. Layla tried to will it to stop for a moment though, it only helped for a brief second. Eventually, she gave up trying and instead spoke up.

"What was that?" She inquired carefully. As she did so, she tugged off his cape. She had to. The article was so soaked through, it was only making her colder.

That wasn't exactly something she had ever seen before. He seemed to have found the answer through Dragonair but how? Could he speak to her, in some way? Was that how he was able to locate her when she had sent Crux after him? It would explain quite a bit in her mind. She simply hoped he would tell her what it was and soon. She found she was a little too curious now that she knew it wasn't her mind playing tricks on her.

----[x]----

Benga couldn't help but grin at the Pokemon. They seemed happy despite the injuries. He was glad for that fact. He didn't quite care to see any Pokemon sad over not seeing their trainer or otherwise. It was a rather depression sight, in his opinion. Pokemon had just as many feelings as people did, after all.

"Good to know that you're both looking better," he noted, watching as Blaire tended to Cerberus. He didn't pay too much mind to Kujo watching them. That was a normal kind of thing. "Hopefully, you'll both be able to get out of here soon, yea?"

No doubt, like Blaire, they'd be wanting to move out and about after having to laze around so long. It wasn't like they could help that fact, as injured as they were. They had to be careful and Benga knew that releasing them pre-maturely might do more harm than good.

He remained silent after that, just watching as Blaire kept an eye on her Pokemon. A lot of people didn't know she had this softer side to her. She was a lot of bark though most didn't learn that until getting close to her, which was a hard feat at times for some. He wished that wasn't the case however. She really was a good person.

Benga shook the thought away. "We'll have to eat soon." He noted. "We've nearly skipped three meals now."

He didn't figure that was too healthy and he had to admit he was even beginning to feel hungry. Benga would allow her to stay as long as she liked however. They were her Pokemon and no doubt, she would want to see them taken care of.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 1:53 pm

Layla's words were nonsensical to him. It was a strange, flowery kind of metaphor that did not ring any bells in Lance's mind. What was it even supposed to mean? The lack of an answer tot hat left him even more frustrated and he instead focused on Dragonair and the Pokemon rushing them into the cave.

Dragonair lingered outside for a moment, allowing the rain to wash away all the grime and dirt. Occasionally she would trill and keen happily.

Lance drew away from Layla to strip off his jacket, doing his best to wring out the water from it. Soaked through as they were it was a futile attempt and someone was going to get sick, Lance just knew it. From the corner of his eye he spotted Layla watching him, shivering and removing his cape from her shoulders.

"Hmm?" He glanced up, surveying her carefully. As others were when they witnessed the ability, Layla was confused, watching him for his answer. Lance chuckled at her, a smirk back in place over his face whether he wanted it there or not.

"And if I said it was a secret?" he taunted, waiting for her reaction.

----[x]----

Kujo rumbled his agreement to Benga, lifting his head just enough to do so before he placed it back down over his great furry paws. While he was taking the waiting process patiently Cerberus was another matter. He was antsy to get up and go but he could not until Nurse Joy allowed it. Blaire sympathized with the Houndoom's want to get up on his on his own two feet.

Blaire wasn't sure how much time passed as she took to loving her Pokemon. Rather one-sided conversations, an input here or there from Kujo or Cerberus, happened as well. These were normal things between her and her Pokemon. Even when Benga spoke up she took several minutes ignoring her rumbling stomach in favor of paying her Pokemon more attention.

Finally she pulled her hands back, smiling apologetically at the two. "Gotta go and get somethin' to eat, buddies," Blaire explained, "we'll be back again soon to check up on ya, okay?"

She received identical whines at this. Both of them wanted her to stay but it wasn't an option at the moment. There were still others around and Nurse Joy and her Chansey needed all the room they could get. Not to mention anyone else out there who wanted to visit their Pokemon but had to wait.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 3:04 pm

Layla continued trying to warm herself up. She peeled of her own jacket, glad that she had chosen to button it up rather then leaving it open before they left. It was for more than one reason and she found her face warming despite her efforts.

The articles of clothing remained draped on her forearm until she could find a place to set them. As listened as he spoke, shuffling her weight a little. It did nothing to help her eagerness to know nor the cold that continued to sap whatever warmth she had.

A shiver wracked her spine again and she desperately wanted to find some source of warmth. Crux watched her carefully. He knew she'd never been effected this badly. It was partly one of the reasons she took such interest in ice type Pokemon. She loved the cold most days. This kind however, was simply miserable.

"W-well I can't f-force the answer out of you," she paused, attempting to get hold of her words. The shivering wasn't helping her speak. She couldn't manage a pout toward his answer, though, she desperately wanted to. "I-if it's t-that big of s-secret, then I'll just w-wait you out."

Layla knew that it was a lie and a weak attempt. Even if she didn't show that she was curious, it would eat away at her. She would want to know or forget about it entirely until she caught sight of it again. Her main concern was getting warm however.

----[x]----

Benga felt a little sad as the Pokemon whined to them. He hated the sound. It was so crestfallen like they wouldn't see either of them again, especially Blaire. They were both so attached to her that he could see why this kind of effect would come about when she left.

"Hey, don't worry guys," he attempted to reassure. "We'll be back! And who knows, you might be out of here before you know it!"

Benga hoped that would be the case. It was hard seeing her Pokemon let alone his own hurt. They were more than just friends to them. They were family and they took care of each other. It was hard to know that they were going into danger and possibly wouldn't get out unhurt much less alive. Every mission concerned him in this way though he always tried to quash it, favoring some kind of over confidence.

With those words said, he moved out of the makeshift center. They would weave through the crowds again to get to the dining area. He hoped it wouldn't be too crowded at this time.

"They're looking better," He noted as he began to move through the crowds. "Hopefully, they'll be able to get out here in a few days."

No doubt, the two would want to play after that. They'd all have to be careful in his mind. Blaire was hurt and he wasn't sure how long both Pokemon would have to take it easy as well.

Finally moving into the dining area, he sighed. There were too many within the room, most out and about doing some form of work. Benga would set her down again, allowing her to lean against him if need be.

"Anything in particular you want or are you just gonna be the bird you are and pick?" he jested lightly.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 3:33 pm

Lance shook his head, watching as Layla did her best to ignore whatever curiosity ate away at her. Her shivering wasn't helping either. In fact, Lance had no doubt that Layla was worse off than he was in this weather at the moment. At least his trembles weren't as forceful and teeth-chattering a hers were.

A sigh escaped from him and he gestured for her to come closer. Lance did his best to ignore the glare Weavile sent his way. It looked as if it would be a long while before Weavile stopped giving him such baleful looks. Lance supposed it was justified, however.

"Come here," he said quietly.

He didn't wait for Layla to respond, despite his words. Instead Lance took three long steps towards her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders, drawing her close. He had read somewhere that it was better to share body heat in situations like this. He also recalled the book saying to take one's wet clothes off. Lance had a little too much dignity to strip all the way to his boxers, however.

His heart pounded more forcefully against his chest at the contact though he ignored it. Now wasn't the time to focus on it.

"You look absolutely miserable," he noted lightly, if only to keep himself from feeling awkward again. Lance didn't care much for the feeling.

----[x]----

Blaire had sobered immensely when her Pokemon whined and keened for them not to leave. It broke her heart to hear and she hoped that they wouldn't have to stay far from her side for too much longer.

As they left, Benga easily slipping through the crowds as per usual, she rested her head against his shoulder, frowning. She hummed in agreement to Benga's words. Blaire didn't like the idea of the two dogs being stuck back in the center, bored and antsy and waiting for their next visit.

It wasn't long after that they were in the 'dining' area. People were milling about and a parent was yelling at their child to get off the tables and act civil. Blaire chuckled at that. It looked very much like the things she and Benga had been up to as kids. She kept close at his side when he put her down, grasping the back of his shirt carefully.

"Maybe I wanna be a bird and pick!" she joked back, carrying a faux-offended tone of voice with it. The grin on her face would let anyone listening in that she was only playing along.

Blaire thought about it for a moment, tugging Benga with her as she moved towards the pantries carefully. At the moment he was her crutch. It was probably a good thing he was willing to be as every few steps Blaire had to pause and wait for her ankle to stop screaming in pain before she could step on it again.

"Maybe some noodles though. It's been a long time," she thought out loud.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 4:31 pm

Layla lifted her head at his words though didn't get much of a chance to respond to him. He had already strode over to her, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. Her heart skipped a beat at the motion, unsure of what to make of it. She found she couldn't complain however. Despite the both of them being rather cold, he was notably warmer than she was.

While shivers still wracked her body, they were less violent as time went on. She listened to his heart beat then, wrapping her arms around his middle. The sound was rather quick paced, as if he were nervous with the motion. Layla couldn't find a reason to blame him. Her heart pounded against her ribs as well, though a fluttering left her liking the feeling.

"It wouldn't have bothered me," she responded after a few beats. "If I wasn't so skinny."

Layla had always been rather normal for her height. Given how skinny she'd become, the wind and cold went right through her. It was more of an annoyance now.

"I normally loved the cold." She informed after a moments thought.

She leaned her ear against his chest, listening to his heart. It was a comforting sound, soothing, even if it beat rather quickly. She liked it, closing her eyes for a short time. She was tired, she couldn't deny that. She simply hoped she wouldn't get sick from all of this though knew it was entirely too possible.

----[x]----

Benga chuckled, shaking his head lightly at her retort. She could have been a bird, if she wanted to. The woman picked at her food and ate so little. She was so scrawny it was a wonder the wind didn't blow her away at times. Benga often worried about her on chilly days but given they would be in the base for a few more days, he didn't so much worry about it.

"It has been a while," he noted, tipping his bed back slightly.

They were often on missions so much that they didn't quite take the time to pick through the pantry. Most of what they carried was small and didn't require to be cooked. They couldn't afford to light a fire given the circumstances. Something warm, he found, sounded rather good.

"Then again, maybe your just cold and want something warm to eat," he jested, shooting her a grin.

He often wondered if that was the case half the time. When she ate soups or noodles, he had always questioned if she was simply cold. Given how the cold seemed to go right through her, it was a given. Not that he could blame her.

Still, he allowed her to pull the pack from the cupboard and helped her move to the stove. He worried about her ankle but figured if he was helping her out, she'd be fine. He didn't so much like all this worrying. It wasn't something he normally did.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 4:59 pm

Every so often Lance would take to rubbing her back, wondering if his effort was helping her get warmer or not. With how wet his own clothes were it could be either or. He liked to imagine that he could feel Layla's shivers lessen as the minutes wore on, even as she rested her head against his chest, causing his heart to stutter in its pace for a split second.

Part of him wished they could light a fire. With how strong his Pokemon were there would be no danger of anyone trying to attack. No, the thing holding that idea up was how damp anything they could find would be. The most it would do would be to smolder and smoke. Lance sighed deeply at that, craving more warmth.

He glanced down as Layla spoke up, raising a brow at her words. "That certainly explains your affinity for ice-types."

Lance spared a glance at Weavile who looked rather at home in the cold. He vaguely wondered why she also had a few ghost-types as well. He'd have to finish tracking them down when he had the time. She would no doubt feel much better when her entire team was back in her possession.

"Perhaps I should steer clear of any temper you might have," he noted almost teasingly. "I'd hate to be on the wrong end of any wayward Ice Beam."

----[x]----

Blaire shot a teasing look Benga's way at the mention of being cold. With him hovering so closely to her as it had been all day there would be a chance for her to grow chilly.

"Well, maybe if I'm cold I'll just ask you to hold me some more, Benga," she noted lightly.

The more she teased him in this fashion the harder Blaire found it not to kiss him for added effect. Still, she managed it will enough, grabbing two packs of noodles before they made their way to the unattended stove. Benga had said anything about being hungry but even he had to eat sometime.

It was a quick process to get everything going before they had to wait for the noodles to cook through. At one point Blaire had to ask Benga to put water in the pan so she wouldn't have to amble over to sink and back.

She smiled at him then. He poked and prodded at her short comings but Blaire had a feeling he was concerned about such things more often than not. Like her, Benga did not enjoy showing too much worry over anything when it could be helped.

"Maybe if I asked you that more often you wouldn't worry about it so much, hmm?" she carried on.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 5:53 pm

Layla hummed in response. She grew a little warmer though, it would be quite some time before she felt normal. She had to wonder just how low her body temperature had dipped, shivering so violently in attempts to warm herself up. It was a little concerning but she did her best to push it from her mind.

"That was one of the reasons." she responded quietly. She liked listening to him talk or the sound of his heartbeat. Part of her didn't want that interrupted. It was a soothing sound, whether he would admit to it or not.

She couldn't help but smile a little as he attempted to tease her. "Don't give him any ideas," she warned again. "He really will make your life miserable if he wants to."

Beside her, she heard Crux scoff. He had been in a sour mood since the fight. Layla worried over it. If he kept up like this, there was no telling how he might react later on or if the two became upset with each other again. He was more likely to act on his own that way, without order. Layla wouldn't hurt a anyone if she could avoid it. She was never a violent type in a whole.

She listened for Dragonair, wondering when the Pokemon would slip back in, what she would think. The Pokemon was rather keen on them being together, it seemed. Layla felt her face warm at the thought of Lance being able to understand his Pokemon. She had told her quite a few things, after all...

"Do you..." She finally began, her face reddening at the thought. "Can you...somehow understand your Pokemon...?"

The thought left her stomach twisted in nervousness and embarrassment. He'd be able to read that quick. She hoped it wasn't the case but a part of her had figured that it was.

----[x]----

Benga was glad to help out when he was able to. She still couldn't put that much weight on her ankle though she seemed loathe to admit that fact. No doubt, she hated this. He would have to. Recovery was always a pain, after all. At least, for the two of them it was.

He tried to calm his heart beat after the comment. It wasn't like they weren't pressed together anyways. Benga knew that it shouldn't have effected him so much, but he couldn't help but feel his heart stir at the words anyways, willing the feeling deeper into him.

"End up anymore confident and you might get a swelled head." He shot back with a grin.

He didn't so much mind the fact. It was hard to admit that he could so easily be caught of guard however. The feeling was rather strong and liked to tug at him whenever she teased or prodded him.

Benga cleared his throat as she continued to prod him. He had to will the blush from his cheeks. "You really are getting confident," he attempted to tease back, poking her forehead lightly. He was careful of her wound while making the small motion. "Then again, that's about normal. Good. Seems like you're getting better."

He hoped it would be a quite recovery and that she wouldn't get too down with the days to come. Normally if she had to stay in one place too long, it brought her mood down hard and fast. Benga hated seeing her that way.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 6:24 pm

Lance chuckled at the idea of Weavile attempting to make his life miserable. If the Pokemon so much as attempted something his own would be on the little Weavile faster than he could blink. His team were very attached to him, after all. Any threat to him was a threat to them in their eyes.

"I'll make note of that," he murmured simply, still amused by the very idea of it.

Outside the cave he could still hear Dragonair playing about in the rain. She would be there for quite some time. It had been a long while since the last rain had been enough for her to go out and about in. He shook his head at that, turning his attention back to Layla when she finally spoke up again.

Head tilted to one side he mulled over how to answer that. It was a hard thing to describe as it was and he didn't want to go too into detail over it to begin with.

"In a way," he said carefully, watching what he could see of her carefully. She seemed to grow embarrassed, antsy even about that fact. His lip twitched up into a knowing smirk. "I take it you've said some things to Dragonair then?"

He waited for an answer, head tilted curiously. Any innocent appearance was destroyed by the fact that he was still smirking quite broadly. He couldn't help it. Seeing Layla squirm and grow red-face was a little endearing to him.

----[x]----

Blaire's smile grew larger and she bit her lip, attempting to reign it in a little. She was really just now noticing how large of an effect on her mood Benga had on her and she wondered how she hadn't ever noticed it before.

She tossed another amused look his way before stirring the noodles, still not satisfied with how they were. It would take a few minutes at most though her stomach growling did not help that mentality. Already it was beginning to ache for the need for food. She ignored this for the moment.

"Well it's a good thing you're here to knock me down a peg or two when I need it, huh?" she teased.

Blaire spared a quick glance around, wondering who might catch a glimpse of them. Most people were wrapped up with their own thing but that didn't mean a wayward glance wouldn't catch them. After a second or two of thinking she threw that concern out. Blaire was never one for subtlety anyways.

She nuzzled momentarily into his neck affectionately in answer to his observation. She shot Benga another smile at his flushed face. It amazed her that he didn't realize how handsome he was in that moment.

"And you're still so cautious it's cute," she murmured so only he would hear.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 6:57 pm

At the answer, her face only seemed to warm more. She had to pull away slightly, placing a hand over her mouth in some attempts to hid her warm face. Her heart pounded against her ribs, thinking of the many things she had told the Dragonair. From commenting on his appearance to admitting that she had some form of growing feelings for him.

"She's not allowed to tell you anything," she answered, feeling dizzy from the thought of what he could learn. "S-she's not. She can't. That's not fair. I didn't know that. That's cheating."

These and many other excuses spilled out of her mouth. She wasn't even sure if she was thinking straight. Her mind whirled with embarrassment over what she had told the Pokemon. Now she knew that in some way, he could understand them. It was no wonder he was able to find her so fast after sending Crux after them.

Why he chose to keep it a secret, she was beginning to see.

"That's not fair," she repeated after several moments. She couldn't think of anything else to say. Her mind was a void of thought in her embarrassment and nervousness.

----[x]----

Benga lifted his head slightly, his face warming again. He knew that there would be a few wayward glances but he tried to ignore them. Whispers would start moving about the base soon. It would be inevitable at this point.

"You've never been one to be subtle," he shot back, trying to calm his beating heart. "It surprises me you just don't bust into the nearest strong hold, waving a neon sign above your head shouting 'come fight me!', just because you can."

He shook his head at the thought, not able to resist smiling. Blaire never did care to be subtle. She was blunt. So blunt in fact that it put people off sometimes. She told to truth and sometimes the truth hurt. Still, part of him didn't care for those who didn't give her another chance.

He grunted, rubbing the back of his neck again. "I'm not cute," he retorted, pouting in a jesting manner. "Suppose you are though."

Benga had never needed a reason to be used to this kind of thing. He remained rather awkward with flirting. Blaire had quite a bit experience under her belt. She had been doing this kind of thing for a long time. Benga knew that she might use this kind of thing as ammo to use against him. Still, if it made her happy, he didn't so much mind it.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Wed Feb 06, 2013 11:47 pm

Lance's chuckling only grew louder the longer that Layla demanded that Dragonair not tell him what she said. She was so flustered about whatever it was that had been told that Lance couldn't help but to laugh at her. He wondered what had her so panicked and what Dragonair knew that he did not just yet.

When Layla finally managed one last "that's not fair," pouting up at him in the process, Lance's chuckles finally died down. He cradled the back of her head in his hand, toying with the damp hair between his fingers.

"Well, whatever you're so hellbent on keeping secret now has my attention," he noted.

He had no doubts that he would get an interesting reaction from her. What would she even do when Dragonair came back in? Would she go so far as to demand the dragon not to let him know? He didn't think that would work anyways. Dragonair had her own convictions and mind and was a stubborn one to boot.

"Perhaps I should go right out there and see what was said...."

It was a taunt, one that he wanted to see Layla react to. She was proving highly entertaining in this flustered state of hers. Lance wondered how long it would last.

----[x]----

Blaire couldn't help but laugh at the mental image Benga managed to put in her head. It was definitely something she might have done if lives weren't at stake. She did love a good battle, after all.

"At least I get the point across!" she defended lightly, stirring the noodles. It wouldn't be too long before they were done at this point.

She hummed as Benga yet again resisted the idea that he was cute. Blaire did her best to ignore the way her heart seemed to soar when he yet again insisted that she was. It was definitely something she liked hearing from Benga but she wanted him to realize that she thought he was cute, too.

A thought crossed her mind, making her pause. How long would it take for Benga to accept the fact that she very much appreciated how he looked? She shook the thought away for the time being.

"Benga, you're very cute," she insisted, turning to him and watching for his reaction. "And if I've gotta keep complimenting you until it gets through that thick head of yours -" she paused her to tap his forehead, "then I will!"

With that said she nuzzled into his neck again, placing another quick kiss there. She hadn't thought that Benga would be one to think rather lowly of his appearance. Then again they were usually out in the wild on travels and had more of a wild streak in him than anything else. It had never been a concern of his. Blaire wondered why she hadn't ever picked up on that before - perhaps it was because he was always so confident about his Pokemon and his abilities.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Thu Feb 07, 2013 12:16 am

Layla's heart seemed to skip a beat as he began toying with her hair. The given situation was not working in her favor and momentarily, she forgot the cold that was attempting to assault them both. The blood rushed to her face, her mind dizzy. She wasn't sure how to respond.

"Y-you can't!" She argued back, her heart pounding against her ribs. She shouldn't have made mention of it at all. At least that way, she could have better prepared herself. She ducked her head slightly. "It's kinda personal and all..."

Layla wasn't sure if that would get the message through or if it would only further his curiosity to know. She wasn't even sure how he might react to the fact that she was discovering feelings for him. Despite being rather confident about it now, he was a rather withdrawn person and she didn't want him pulling away from her over the fact.

Still, she had to admit, she liked this more playful side of him. It left her feeling quite a bit lighter. despite their bumpy start.

----[x]----

Benga couldn't help but chuckle as she agreed with him. He had expected as such, in truth. Blaire had always been rather reckless and front with her emotions and ideals. She would charge in if she wanted to. The only difference now as their lives were on the line every time they left the rebel base.

At her insistence of being cute, he rubbed the back of his neck. His cheeks flared again. Benga had never really been one to focus on his physical appearance. The way they had lived, there had never really been a need to. Being out in the wilderness nearly everyday left them with a lack of want to fix themselves up. They'd just get dirty again later on anyways.

"if you think so," he responded, attempting to will himself to calm as she nuzzled into him again, kissing his neck. "I guess I can't argue."

Benga knew she wanted him to realize that. If it would make her happy, he'd agree to a point. He didn't really see himself as cute but he didn't mind the compliment.

He reached up, ruffling her hair in the process. "As long as you're happy." Benga added, shooting a smile down at her.

He hoped that what he could do would make her happy. Benga found he didn't like her so down, given any situation. It had been that way for the past few months, moods shifting from good to bad. Not that anyone could be blamed. Still, if he could somehow keep her smiled, he figured that would be enough for him.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Thu Feb 07, 2013 12:48 am

Lance tipped his head to the side, a curious expression washing over his face. It was a little hard not to chuckle at her further. She was so damn insistent and yet she gave no reason as to why he shouldn't other than it being personal.

"Personal, hm?" he prodded lightly. "Now I'm really intrigued as to what was said."

From the corner of his eye Lance could see Weavile huffing and glaring at him darkly. He chuckled at that, his focus still mostly on Layla. He was finding that he enjoyed teasing her, even if it made his heart pick up pace just a little faster. Lance wondered if there would be time later on to do this more often or if things would happen and get in the way of that.

"For something so secret you're not doing a very good job convincing me to keep my nose out of it," he carried on after a moment.

The smirk was back in place on his face afterwards. No matter how hard he tried he could not keep it from his face. Layla's attempts were too funny, too interesting to stop himself. Lance found that he hadn't had this much fun in a long time.

----[x]----

Blaire smiled, taking the time to turn off the stove. They'd need to grab a couple of forks and bowls in a moment. Then again it wasn't like the two hadn't eaten out of the same pot when they did have anything to cook when traveling. Blaire yet again had to wonder why the two never really thought they'd end up growing so close when she thought back to it now.

Her train of thought was broken when Benga carried on, reaching out to ruffle her hair. She blinked, turning to survey him. Blaire couldn't deny she was a little surprised at the sentiment being spoken out loud.

After a moment a smile was back in place on her lips, her gaze softening. She clasped his shirt in her hand, tugging at it as if to catch his attention, the other reached out to tangle in his hair for the moment.

"Well, aren't you sweet?" she murmured.

Blaire remained that way for a moment or two, ignoring the curious glances from a few people that recognized them nearby. She didn't think about them, nor the fact that in no time word would probably circle around to Alder somehow. Gossip was something that kept many entertained now-a-days and it had a way of traveling fast.

Finally she turned away, pointing to the finished noodles. They had begun to cool as she was preoccupied with Benga. She didn't much care about that for the moment though.

"Why don't we eat and get to wandering, huh?"