[PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN]

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 2:18 am

Layla found she didn't have much more she wanted to rely. Not that she could think of at the moment. She genuinely wanted to reach out to Lance though it was difficult for her.

She rubbed one of her eyes, finding that she was rather wary. Tugging the pills from her coat pocket, she scoffed at the bottle. Experiencing drowsiness seemed to be one of the symptoms. She figured she shouldn't have been so surprised by this. Layla was a little more annoyed over the fact.

"Maybe we should head back," She suggested. "Before I fall asleep on my feet."

She'd rather avoid such things if she could help it. She had always hated walking around when medicine did this to her in the first place. It left her half in a daze and feeling worse for wear anyways.

Layla relied on Dragonair to direct the way. The building was huge and she feared she'd get lost if she relied on what she could recall.

----[x]----

Benga snorted in amusement as she plowed on. These things she had never been good at. Like he had reminded her that he wouldn't stop complaining about the sewers, she often reminded him of her trouble with maps.

It was a normal thing to hear. Than again, a lot that was normal ended up being just bickering in most people's eyes.

"Come on, don't complain!" He prodded back. "Can't be all that horrible!"

He chuckled as she scoffed in reply. No doubt, this was all rather frustrating for her. She didn't care for this at all. He couldn't say he cared for it either but at least he wasn't the one holding the map in the end.

Benga glanced about as they made another turn. "I don't know how some of these Pokemon can live here," he carried on the conversation. "Think it would be pretty miserable."

Since Genesis showed up, a lot of Pokemon had been notably upset by the disturbances. It was a rather heart breaking thing to see. Pokemon were for the most part friendly creatures if treated right. Genesis abused them and their powers, calling them weapons.

He had to wonder if more Pokemon have fled to the sewers just to get some peace of mind and away from human contact.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 2:29 am

Dragonair was quick to begin leading them to the nearest elevator, having to indicate with her tail just what floor Layla needed for her room. Since the young woman was injured Dragonair felt it best not to use stairs. The Pokemon didn't care for stairs, either, the angels uncomfortable to maneuver over.

She kept a slow pace, not wanting to discomfort Layla. No doubt the woman was happy when the elevator had been empty of anyone else and she could let her guard down for those moments. At least that's how it had appeared to Dragonair.

Hurrying down the hall she stopped several yards away, keening loudly to Layla. She waited in front of Layla's room, watching her carefully. Her tail waved through the air momentarily.

If Layla wanted Dragonair to remain than she needed only to say the word or she would head back to Lance's side again. Lance was giving Layla choices and that included for however long Dragonair stayed at her side. Layla only needed to let them know when that was.

----[x]----

Blaire snorted at Benga, turning to shoot him a mild look. She wasn't even sure if he saw it from his flashlight's glow or not. For all Blaire knew it could have been a useless action.

"Hey! If you can complain about sewers then I can complain about maps!"

She lead them down the last turn, taking the flashlight from her mouth gratefully. It had started to cramp but she hadn't been able to let go of the map. It was so large that doing so caused it to fall over on itself, useless. Blaire worked her jaw, trying to get rid of the kinks before she spoke up, sweeping the flashlight for sign of the ladder.

"I suppose it depends on the Pokemon. I guess Zubat don't really smell, so the stench probably doesn't even reach them. Not sure about the ones like Rattata, though...."

Her light swept over a pair of sleeping Raticate, stuffed in a large tube. Blaire hummed in though, dragging her flashlight away from the Pokemon. She didn't want to disturb them. She didn't think it too far-fetched that they had come down to avoid all human contact due to the situation up top.

"Benga," she called out, a serious tone of voice. "I hope you're not thinking of staying up all night again."

If Blaire had to she would keep Benga at her side all night. Their Pokemon were more than capable of handling watch shifts for a night, after all. Despite Benga's doze earlier she worried about him pulling another all-nighter just because he wanted her to sleep through however much she could manage.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 2:45 am

Layla was glad that Dragonair had led her to an elevator rather than the stairs. She was growing tired as the minutes passed and doubted that the stairs would be too comfortable of a thing in the first place, for the both of them.

It wasn't too long a walk after that, getting back to her room. She gazed at the Pokemon as Dragonair cooed at her on and off. Layla knelt down, stroking her side.

"I'll be alright, I think." She finally said, smiling. "After what happened today, I don't think they're are too many brave enough to try anything."

She hoped that those words were true. As Dragonair took to moving away, most likely to return to Lance immediately, Layla pushed her way into the room. She didn't bother flipping the lights on. She saw not point. She simply tugged off her boots and jacket and closed the door behind her. Taking some measure, she locked the door. She figured if someone did attempted to come in, she'd at least hear it.

Layla wondered if that would be the case at least. She didn't dwell on it too much afterward. She moved to the bed and laid down, pulling the blanket over her. In a matter of minutes, she fell asleep, seeming dead to the world.

----[x]----

Benga shifted a little, watching the Raticate before he blinked down at Blaire. She was watching him carefully, from what he could see in the low light. Benga snorted in response.

"Actually, not tonight," He relented after a moment. "We're both going to rest. We both know how big this missions going to be, so we'll need it."

He knew their Pokemon would be able to keep themselves up off and on when they had to. Benga felt a little guilty using them as guard but at times like this, they had no other choice.

He handed the flash light back to her. "Now, let's just get out of here and worry about the rest later."

With that said, he began climbing the ladder. When at the top, he pushed on the man hole cover carefully. They were indeed in an alleyway. He scanned the area carefully before motioning to Blaire to move up as well.

"Let's go," he whispered.

Pushing the man hole cover off, he slid it as quietly as he could manage before pulling himself up and onto the concrete. He was glad not to be in the sewers anymore and took a deep breath of air. It would only be temporary relief however. They'd be going back in not a day later.

When Blaire managed to pull herself out as well, he slid the cover back on. He wiped his brow before glancing at the woman. They had a shot out of the city now. The sewers had helped them trek through most of the city and cover enough ground.

It was merely getting out without catching anyone's attention now.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 2:56 am

Lance leaned back in his chair, pushing a hand through his hair. An aggravated sigh left him. At this rate Layla's Pokemon would not be returned until about noon tomorrow. He scowled as he thought about that. He didn't like to be kept waiting but it wasn't as if he had much sway over the matter.

He lifted his gaze to the doorway as a thumping reached his ears. Curious, he made his way to it, opening it only to see Dragonair there. Lance's eyebrow rose, watching as she slid inside. There was never enough room for her to soar about as she would have liked.

"I take it she did not wish for you to guard her for the night?" he questioned.

Dragonair's shrill coo was all the answer he needed through she seemed persistent to share something or other with him. He was curious, even as she tugged on his sleeve. The fabric was caught in her mouth and Dragonair would not relent until he agreed to search her memories for what she wanted to show.

"Alright," Lance agreed, placing a hand over Dragonair's forehead. He could feel that strange prickling in his hand as his even stranger ability set to work, showing him what Layla had conveyed to Dragonair through her memories.

----[x]----

"Good," Blaire nodded. "I'd have tied you up if you said otherwise!"

Benga was first up the ladder, as he always was. Whether he liked to take the lead or he wanted to make sure it was always safe before Blaire went in, she could never quite decide. Thinking too much about the latter option caused her to feel a strange stirring in her chest that she couldn't ever quite explain.

She waited at the bottom, shoving the flashlights back into her bag. The map was quick to follow, folded a little sloppily until it would fit neatly inside. At that point she heard Benga's call for her to follow.

It only took a few minutes until she was up on street level as well, breathing in the fresher air gratefully. Recalling what she could from the map Blaire pointed out the path they would need to go. Benga would undoubtedly take the lead yet again though Blaire would not argue it. It never went anywhere when they did seriously argue. Both were a little too hot-headed for that to happen.

The street lights and the moon through the clouds was their only light now and it made for many more hiding spots to be exploited. Occasionally drunken shouts could be heard from a nearby bar or a street fight breaking out.

Blaire shook her head. The world had really turned to pot since Genesis' reign. It reminded her all too much of her home life before she met Benga and went off on Pokemon journeys with him instead.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 3:10 am

Layla wasn't sure what time she roused from her sleep. It wasn't a natural thing, something was waking her. Someone was insie the room. She tried to pin point the voice but her mind still demanded she sleep.

Part of her was convinced she was simply having a waking dream.

Muttering something unintelligible, she buried her face into her pillow, unaware of the danger lurking right over her until she was pulled from the bed forcefully. That in itself roused her partly, her mind still in a fog.

It didn't take her much to realize who had entered her room uninvited however. The two from before, the ones that Dragonair had chased off, had somehow managed to enter her room. Despite her wariness, she felt her heart leap into her throat.

She feared this might have happened regretted not keeping Dragonair at her side. One, the woman, had a tight hold on her. Ir didn't take much to guess that this man had ill intentions.

Layla simply wondered if anyone would find her before it was too late.

----[x]----

It was a quiet trek after they had gotten out of the sewers and in the open again. Benga was careful after she had pointed them in the way they needed to go. It wasn't just Genesis they needed to worry about now. Thugs and drunkards would know doubt be wandering the areas.

He snorted at this. Since Genesis came about, the world had turned completely upside down. How anyone could think that Genesis was doing any form of good, he could never tell.

He tried to push those thoughts from his mind as they ducked around another corner carefully. There weren't too many out and about. It seemed they had called off the chase for he and Blaire.

They gave up too easily.

Benga was felt relief when they moved out of the alleyways and the city itself, heading in the direction the stronghold would be in. The cities felt like too much anymore, even with the rules they held. Ordinarily, he would have had no problem walking around.

It seemed like everyone knew their faces at this point.

As darkness engulfed them, the light of the city fading away behind them, he puffed out a sigh.

"That was tedious," he finally broke the silence, shooting Blaire a smirk.

He had no doubt she would agree.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 1:45 pm

The man, Kaiden, brought his finger up to his lips. His other hand was clamped over the long-haired woman's mouth, preventing her from calling out. His partner, Aveline, helped to pin her down, her Persian at the door and listening in to anything that happened in the hallways.

"Quiet now," he smirked. "We wouldn't want ya to have to ruin that mouth 'a yours."

"Oh, stop teasing her," snapped Aveline playfully.

Snickering ensued, filling the silence around them. It only lasted a few minutes before Kaiden followed Aveline's 'advice.' He had a rather large fist, even for someone of his average height, and he wasted no time in hitting the woman they had pinned down. Over and over he did this, not really aiming and just letting his fist land wherever it did.

----[x]----

Blaire could stop looking around herself for danger as often once they had reached the city's limits, trekking further out. The stronghold was nearby, away from the city but still within walking distance. It was a large thing that towered in the sky and Blaire could see several lights on on many of the floors.

"Tedium seems to be a normal thing lately," she pointed, sighing at that fact. She reached out, taking a fistful of Benga's hair so that she could gently rock his head side to side as she carried on. "And of course you'd be the one to wanna point it out!"

Much of what they did felt tedious anymore. Instead of getting things done right away they had to do them in roundabout ways so as not to get noticed. It was frustrating and made things far longer than they needed to be.

Glancing around she didn't see any shapes moving about on ground level. Above some of the nocturnal Pokemon flitted about but that was it for the time being.

"On the upside it doesn't look like anyone's patrolling out here."

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 2:13 pm

The first few blows knocked the wind out of her and she had a hard time of getting the breath back. This man wouldn't quite allow her that, one blow following after another.

She screamed when he hit a particularly damaged place. Her ribs seemed to scream in pain at the abuse. The damage that had already been done would only worsen, she knew that. The sound she emitted only furthered the abuse.

Layla wasn't sure how much time had passed. It might have only been minutes but it felt like hours. It always did, no matter who had been the one dishing out the abuse.

Layla finally caught a big enough breath, filling her lungs. She yanked her head away from her hand.

"Help!" She screamed.

She wasn't sure if anyone would hear her. Lance's room was doors down, would her shaky voice carry? Was he even there to begin with? Layla didn't care if it was him who stopped it or someone else. Anyone could step in and she wouldn't have cared, as long as they were putting a stop to these people.

Her head slumped afterward as she gasped her breath. Every part of her screamed in agony, her body trembled. She wasn't sure how much more of this she could take.

----[x]----

Benga tipped his head back, making a grab for her hand as she tugged at his hair. She knew how much he hated it and often exploited it because of that fact. When she was particularly angry with him, she'd yank hard just to make sure he knew. This was more a playful act but still one that he often didn't care for.

"Owowowow!" He protested. "Come on, that hurts!"

Part of it was jesting on his end. No matter what kind of fuss he made over it, she was still being gentle regardless. The act was only to lighten up the mood. They were both rather tired at this point, he was sure.

He glanced about as well after she spoke again. There wasn't much activity, though, the Pokemon remained quiet. They always did when they were near strongholds. They knew better. This was a warning to anyone approaching.

"They must be really relaxed about it," He agreed, nodding his head slightly. "I doubt they think any rebels would be 'brave' enough to attack a place this big." He snorted at the thought, shooting a toothy grin toward Blaire. "Than again, no one accused us of being 'smart' about this."

It was a big risk to be doing this. Damaging the place would be one thing. Freeing those inside to join the rebel cause would help them in ways some couldn't imagine.

The 'assistance' had the closest look at the bases and people within them. They knew things normal people would not. The information was great for the rebels side.

"Sooner we get this over with the better though," he plowed on. "I'd rather get back and just laze around for a little bit if I can help it."

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 2:33 pm

Lance woke with the sound of the air rushing out of his lungs. Dragonair must have been trying to get him up for some time to have resorted to hitting his stomach as hard as she had. She looked panicked, hurrying Lance to get up, forgetting about his cape and boots.

"Dragonair, what is it?" he asked, frowning.

What she had to say was a jumbled mess and he shook his head. Lance couldn't comprehend any of it she was in such a rush. Finally he just asked for her to lead him where she needed him. It was hard to keep up with her, his feet padding along the hallway, though it wasn't too long a trek.

Closer to Layla's door he could hear what had Dragonair so disturbed and panicked.

Rage boiled up in him and Lance could swear he was seeing red right then and there. He couldn't be sure later as to what attack he ordered Dragonair to use only that it blew the door inwards and caught the two assaulting his charge off guard entirely.

"Dragonair! Now!"

With a loud scream in agreement Dragonair was quick to obey, using an Ice Beam to scatter the two from Layla. With that done she could attack both without hurting Layla in the process.

----[x]----

Blaire chuckled, pulling her hand back to her side as Benga pouted at her. She grinned cheekily, well aware that Benga hated having his hair tugged around like that.

"Aww, don't be such a big baby! Besides you're the one with that overblown mohawk of yours! It's just begging to get yanked!"

She sobered, listening in to the sounds around them. While it was still too quiet occasionally she could her a Noctowl or a Zubat from above as they soared and flitted about searching for food. Blaire missed the old days when all sorts of Pokemon could be heard if one listened.

"Well, their arrogance will prove to our advantage," she noted lightly.

She chuckled again, shaking her head. It was very true that they had never been accused of being 'smart', at least not since fighting back against Genesis. No, they took far too many risks for others to want to say they were intelligent.

"Nah, we're not stupid we're just mad geniuses! No one can recognize it though," she joked.

She ran a hand through her hair at Benga's musing. She was careful not to pull any of it out of the hair decorations she adored, however.

"That sounds like a marvelous idea."

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 2:58 pm

Layla was hardly aware of the door snapping inward or the two breaking from her. She fell to the floor, her hands finding their way to her head. Layla curling into a ball though her body screamed in agony with the movement. Her vision was blurred but she remained awake and wide eyed.

"Please stop," the words left her though and seemed completely unaware of her mutterings. "No more."

Her frame trembled as she gasped for air. Everything hurt. Every little movement hurt, even the noises sent her into some form of pain.

All the while, her mutterings continued. Words passed her lips and she made no attempt to stop them. Apologizes to no one, begging to stop harming her. Her body had long since fallen into shock.

Layla hated these feelings and this pain. She chocked on a sob, whimpering, unsure of what might happen next.

----[x]----

Benga snorted at the mention of his wild hair. He ran a hand through it when she finally let go. His hair had always been rather wild, even as a child. He took after his grandfather, the mans hair nearly exactly alike. Benga secretly was proud of that. Alder had been the champion in Unova after all and Benga had trained to be stronger than him.

"Suppose it will," he agreed. "Though, we can't get too cocky yet, eh?"

There was no telling who might be inside. If Lance was there, were others from the previous Elite Four hiding there as well? He hadn't heard of any other name mentioned. Lance had only been big talk because of the woman who was to be his 'assistant' for a time.

There would be no telling until they actually launched their attack.

He snickered again as she plowed on. The woman always had a good sense of humor, when one understood it. Quite a few people had trouble understanding the blatant sarcasm and snark. It put more people off than anything.

"We're super geniuses." He agreed, placing his hand behind his head. He locked his fingers together, glancing at the sky.

"We'll have to take the time to beat each other up, huh?" He suggested with a grin.

They had wrestled, even as kids and it simply grew as a regular thing. Most were rather unsure of how to take these things but those who knew them had expected these things after while.

Benga kept an eye out for a place to rest. They couldn't stay out in the open, so he hoped they would luck out and find some place that was at least covered a little.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 3:15 pm

It was short work of the two that had violated his unspoken warning. They lay crippled on the floor, Dragonair growling viciously at them. The woman's Persian had been knocked into unconsciousness almost immediately upon Lance's arrival. The door had smacked into it's lithe frame and sent it sprawling from Dragonair's attack.

It was only when hew as sure that the two, Kaiden and Aveline, were either unconscious or could not reach for their other pokeballs. They had not been given the chance to fight back, Lance's rage too great to allow a fair fight.

In his mind they did not deserve it.

Lance swept over to Layla's side, concern and worry for this woman he barely knew flooding past his rage. He didn't have the time brood on it for the time being. Layla was curled up into a ball, refusing to look around, to lift her head or to stop muttering apologies and pleas for it all to stop.

He frowned at that. Lance never had to deal with broken people before. The most he had dealt with her broken down Pokemon, left in fragile states. People and Pokemon could be quite different and it left him at a loss of what to do.

Shaking his head Lance did not bother to try and talk her out of this shock. He felt his words would fall on deaf ears. Instead he gentle scooped her up into his arms, noting how she flinched and seemed to expect the worse. Lance would get her to the doctor for her injuries, Dragonair following after.

----[x]----

Blaire watched as Benga ran his hand through his hair, presumably in response to her mention of its wildness. She chuckled a little at that. She recalled it had always been difficult for his parents to cut his hair when they were little. Benga vehemently refused it.

She shook the memory off. Now wasn't the time for such things.

Blaire could not resist the smirk on her face as Benga played along, ducking her head and rubbing her hand over her mouth to hide it for a moment. There was no need to, however. There was only a sliver of a moon out for light and it made it nearly impossible to make out such details.

"Oh, you know it," she agreed to the idea of another match.

It had been quite sometime since the last time they had wrestled. To be fair they had been on missions a lot more frequently lately and could not risk an accidental injury. Though they had both long since learned to roll with any throw it didn't mean something couldn't happen.

Such things were now reserved for when they were back at a rebel base on a break from missions.

Her attention soon drew to their main concern. They need a place to sleep for the night, preferably one under cover. It was hard to tell what was best in the dark, however. Shadows had a way of making things larger or more elongated. It messed with one's mind.

"I hate scouting in the middle of the night," she griped after several minutes of silence passed.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 3:51 pm

Layla didn't know where she was being taken, her mind rather blank and in a heavy fog. Eventually, she stopped muttering, only favoring whimpers or an occasional large sob racking her frame.

Her hang tangled into her shirt, pain assaulting her with every minor movement. She wasn't sure how much more she could take of this. She was mentally and physically exhausted yet was too afraid to let sleep take her. She fought it off, just to ensure she wouldn't be hurt again.

Layla wasn't sure when she was laid down or the people who took to tending her. She didn't protest when she was given something for the pain. Even as they spoke, she hardly listened, to far within herself to care.

It took her quite some time to reign in her emotions, to calm her sobbing and to realize where she was. Even still, she found she didn't want to speak, at a loss as to what to say.

----[x]----

Benga was glad that she agreed. Getting back to the base would be a nice change of pace. They'd been out for quite some time, far from the base they had resided in.

This happened quite often. Both hated staying in one place for too long and would eventually take up missions just to pass time, regardless of whether it was dangerous or not. It was a normal pattern and while some worried for their well being, even attempted to talk them out of it, they'd always take up the missions anyways.

Benga didn't often worry about being on the outside. They were strong, they could take care of themselves.

He kept glancing about, trying to find something in the darkness. They couldn't use the flashlights out here. It would alert anyone near that there was someone poking in places they weren't meant to.

"We'll find something," he reassured. "Eventually."

It took a little time, trying to make out every little shape in the darkness. Eventually, his eyes fell on something that they could use. He pointed in the direction they needed to move.

"I think that's an old shack...or house?" He murmured. "Want to risk it?"

They were in enemy territory. If Genesis found them during the night or even in the day time, they could easily call for back up quickly. It was all a matter of what would happen. Risks were normally taken, as true as it was for them. Still, caution wasn't a horrible thing either.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 4:06 pm

Lance paced rather impatiently as the doctor saw to Layla. It was a difficult thing. She didn't want to uncurl from around herself, too afraid of more pain. Her whimpers did finally die away as the pain killer administered set in.

Lance's mood, however, did not lessen.

Was this something that happened often? Had Layla neglected to tell him of this? Why hadn't she said anything about it? It was a frustrating train of thought and he could not shake it in the quiet of the infirmary.

Dragonair remained off to the side, watching Lance pace furiously. Without his boots or cape on he looked far less intimidating than normal though the glare on his face was more than enough to make up for it.

The only good side that he could find was that no weapon had been used and no blood had been drawn. Everything had been a bruise or a break, no matter how severe.

Lance spared Layla a glance, scowling.

----[x]----

Blaire paused, eyeing the shack. It looked rather in disrepair. It might have been someone's little home away from home at one point. That didn't mean something wasn't hiding inside it now, however.

"Knowing Genesis, I don't think any of them would be hiding inside," she mumbled in thought. Many of them tended to prefer more expensive tastes and complained about anything less.

"I don't see any harm in poking around it."

With that she carefully made her way forward before Benga could take the lead. While she didn't complain about it out loud she didn't always see it as fair that he put himself in any potential danger first all the time. Blaire cared about his well-being, too, after all.

It took a few minutes to pick through the brambles and dead underbrush. Occasionally her pants would snag on a thorn and she'd have to pull it free. The windows of the shack were covered in a layer of film, making it impossible to see inside. Blaire was grateful when she found a broken window pane to peer into.

She gestured for Benga to come look, keeping her voice at a whisper once he was close enough to hear.

"There's a couple of Meowth inside though it's impossible to tell how they'll react to strangers."

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 4:49 pm

Layla was quiet for a long while. She watched Lance on and off out of the corner of her eye. He seemed rather in a mood and whether it was because of the attack or because of her, she couldn't tell. Still, it weighed on her and she found she didn't know what to say to him.

Clearing her head took some time. While it was blank from most thoughts, she still found herself flinching at sounds or touch. She had to catch herself, not bothering to apologize for the moment. She didn't feel like she needed to.

Eventually, she pushed her hair from her face. Her bangs fell back into place a moment after. The movement was a little less painful now, thanks to a powerful pain killer. It didn't not help her mood however.

Layla gnawed on her lip, catching Lance's gaze for a moment. Was he angry at her? Or the situation? She wasn't the one at fault, she knew that. Still, it was hard to shake out of those thoughts.

She shifted, rather unsure of herself as she dropped her gaze. "I'm sorry," She finally muttered.

She had no idea why she was apologizing. The words simply slipped out. It hung in the air, silence falling over them again.

----[x]----

Benga was careful to follow. He allowed Blaire poke around a tad herself. He knew that every once in a while, she preferred to take charge rather than allowing him lead the way all of the time. It was a pattern they were far too used to to really bicker over.

He poke his head inside when she motioned to him. Two Mewoth were curled up with one another, resting. One raised its head, watching them though, did not make a move to flee or attack.

"I think it'll be fine," he noted after a few beats. "Looks like they don't mind sharing their home."

With that said, he moved carefully toward the doorway. The door had been long since busted, hanging on its hinges. The inside was rather dusty, old furniture left abandoned and the home was in disrepair.

Benga couldn't complain. It was a place to stay for the night. While the floorboards creaked under his weight, the roof was still up and sturdy. It seemed like there was very little danger here, aside from being so close to the strong hold.

"I think we'll be alright here," He announced, motioning toward Blaire to follow. "The Meowth look like they're just taking a cat nap."

He spared the two a smile as the one who had watched them ducked its head again, curling up with the other and closing its eyes. He shook his head a little, raising his gaze. He'd wait on Blaire before settling in for the night.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 5:06 pm

Lance shook his head, hardly stopping in his pacing. It was really the only thing keeping him occupied. At Layla's apology he dismissed it with a wave. There it was again, that damnable apology. Lance found he was growing rather annoyed at hearing it so often.

"Why you seem apt to apologize so often is beyond me," he snapped.

Another shake of the head accompanied this and he had to remind himself that he had to keep his composure. If not Layla might only blame herself yet again and apologize for that. It was a frustrating cycle and Lance cared for none of it.

After a moment he managed to stop in his pace, placing his face in his hand for the time being. He had to focus on his thoughts and calm himself down. Even still, the anger was there burning dully in his chest and ready to be stoked at any given moment.

"How often does something like this happen?" he ground out after a moment, face still hidden away from Layla's view. Lance had to know to prevent it.

Dragonair sidled closer to Layla's side, attempting to reassure the woman that Lance was not angry at her but the ones that had done this.

----[x]----

Blaire picked her way carefully into the shack after Benga, ducking under the crooked door. There was no need to try and move it or make a ruckus. She didn't want to disturb the napping Meowth, not when they were so kindly allowing them to share the area without a fuss. Moving that door would no doubt cause it to fall and do just that.

At every other creak their footsteps produced Blaire couldn't help but notice that the smaller of the two Pokemon's ears would twitch. She smiled at this, glancing around at the dusty room.

"Well, if it's good enough for cute little Meowth, it's good enough for me," she answered after a moment, reaching for her pokeballs.

Kujo was released to act as a cushion yet again. Bahamut and Cerberus would act as guards along with whoever else Benga would call out. Shiva and Ifrit she would allow to continue resting in the pokeballs. They, along with Kujo, would be her team for tomorrow's mission once inside the stronghold.

She waited until Benga called out his Pokemon for the night watch. They all dutifully took up their positions, well aware of what was going on. It was a little sad, really, that even their Pokemon were accustomed to this way of life now.

Taking her mind off of that thought Blaire instead looped her arm around Benga's yet again. It was an easy matter of tugging him closer to Kujo. It had been a long time since they had sleep side-by-side and Blaire was a little loathe to admit it if only because of the idea that it brought about that feeling in her chest that she didn't exactly want to explain - to herself or anyone else.

"You know, I don't think I thanked you for the clothes, Benga," she noted conversationally, tugging at the end of the jacket.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 5:37 pm

Layla flinched as he snapped at her. She had expected such a thing though, her throat tightened in response, tears welling up in her eyes. She quickly had to swipe at them before they spilled over.

She remained quiet for a moment as he spoke up again. She wasn't sure how to answer that. Layla had expected it to happen at some point. In fact, she had expected it a day before. There were many who took the opportunity right away. The moment a person like her fell into their hands, they too advantage of it.

Layla swallowed hard, attempting to clear her throat. It was a difficult thing for her to admit though, it seemed he needed the information.

"All the time," She finally relented softly. "The moment a life is passed into their hands, they take advantage of it."

Layla had figured he knew this. Beating happened whenever someone 'saw fit' of it. Day, night, in public or private. It didn't matter. If they had an excuse, they would use it.

She had long since figured out the only reason it hadn't happened right away here was because of Lance and Dragonair's warning. Still, some did not heed it.

"It doesn't matter who it is, if there's an excuse, they'll use it." She scoffed a little. "Some didn't even need an excuse..."

----[x]----

Benga snickered a little as she spoke. She had always had a soft spot for 'cute things', despite the way she acted. She loved little things and was actually quite good with kids. Most expressed a little surprise on this matter. She was rather wild when she wanted to be.

"Seems like they don't mind it," he responded, watching the two Pokemon.

Benga dug out Volcarona's Pokeball before releasing the moth like Pokemon. He took up watch with the others, folding his wings to his back. It would be a long night and the Pokemon would decide among themselves who would take up first watch.

They had all grown rather accustom to this life style after all.

Benga shot a glance toward Blaire, a little unsure of what to say. He coughed into his fist, turning his head a little as she pulled him closer to Kujo. He was glad for the dark. His cheeks felt warm and despite his efforts, he could not will the blush away.

"It was nothing," he reassured. "I couldn't let you freeze every night."

Something stirred in his chest and he attempted to ignore it. It was an odd feeling. He didn't quite care to admit that it was there every time Blaire reached out like this. It was unfamiliar and odd.

"You would have done the same thing for me." He muttered a moment afterward.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 5:50 pm

Lance shook his head, turning away and storming off. If he stayed he'd just snap at Layla again and though she had swiped at them he could see how easily that alone had gotten to her.

"Dragonair!" he barked out as he did so.

She trilled in agreement, keeping to Layla's side. The order did not need to be said, it was obvious what Lance wanted to happen at this point. Layla would not be anywhere without Dragonair there as well at this point.

In moments he was gone, tearing out of the area. Whatever sleep he might have been able to get to now would be wasted. No, his anger burned to greatly in his chest, it caused him to grow warm with it and he stalked down the hallways, glaring at anything that crossed him.

No, he would see to it that Kaiden and Aveline were made as examples.

Dragonair cooed quietly, keeping her distance from Layla. She was in a fragile state and the Pokemon did not know how to deal with it. For most her life she had been at Lance's side and had not needed to know these things.

How did one help in this instance?

----[x]----

Kujo was quick to find a spot, laying down against the wall as was usual. In this manner he could not be surprised from behind if he kept his sides protected as such. It left less routes to be attacked from.

Blaire shuffled from side to side, still fiddling with the end of the jacket. Benga had grown bashful and she had to wonder why. Did he feel that strange stirring, too? Blaire shook that thought from her mind. Now, while they were out in the open and in enemy territory, was not the time to think of it.

"Yeah, but you never need it," she teased, attempting to ignore that feeling again. Still, her voice was a little quieter than usual in times like this. Blaire liked to think it was because she didn't want to disturb the Meowth.

She seated herself at Kujo's side, gesturing for Benga to join her. He didn't exactly have a large, fluffy Pokemon like Kujo for added warmth, after all. Blaire gave Kujo a quick scratch behind the ears, eliciting a quiet bark from him in response.

"Still... thanks, Benga," she murmured after a moment.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 6:26 pm

Layla watched Lance walk off. She swallowed hard, a lonely feeling falling over her. She drew her knees toward her chest. She buried her face away, her long hair falling over her shoulders. Wrapped her arms around her legs, she remained this way for quite some time.

Her frame shook every once in a while, sobs racking her body again. It had been a long while since she'd felt so empty. She hated feeling as such.

Layla hardly took notice of Dragonair there now though, she could feel the Pokemon's gaze rested on her. She couldn't bring herself to reach out, to seek any form of comfort. Her heart ached and despite her best efforts, she couldn't quash the feeling.

Whatever form of sleep that she could have had, she would not indulge in. Fear kept her awake despite her body and mind wanting to sleep.

----[x]----

Benga rubbed the back of his neck, scoffing a little. He hated feeling so bashful over these kinds of things. It only fueled that unknown feeling in his chest, swirling and attempting to overwhelm him.

He hated not understand certain emotions and this was no different.

Eventually, he moved to their side, settling himself down beside Blaire. He had to admit, Kujo was a lot warmer than just standing about in the cold. He patted the large Pokemon's side, smiling slightly at him.

"It's no problem," he answered. "Really. It was nothing."

Benga worried over her health in these cold days. She could easily become ill if she wasn't warm enough. While she often never expressed worry over this, he did though, he didn't voice it quite as often.

He tapped her nose a moment afterward. "Just as long as you make sure to take care of yourself tomorrow." He pressed on.

His hand finally settled into his lap again. He cleared his throat again a moment after. Why should he feel so bashful over that act? He found he really wasn't sure.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 6:54 pm

Dragonair shrank back, concerned for Layla's mental health. There wasn't any more the Pokemon could do while they waited. No doubt the doctors did not want to send Layla back yet, concerned that she might be attacked again if left to her own devices. For now all they could do was wait for Lance to return.

Instead she took up pacing as her trainer had. There was no more to be done on her own. Occasionally she would pause, glancing at Layla for a reaction. The woman remained wrapped in herself, unwilling to reach out.

A coo left Dragonair yet again. She was dejected, unable to help her as Lance wanted.

The Pokemon could not be sure how much time would pass before Lance would return.

----[x]----

Blaire shuffled, perhaps enjoying the fact that Benga sat so closely to her a little too much. She wouldn't mention that, not out loud, however. Kujo's tail had begun to wag as well, rather happy that he could be of service and keep them both warm in the night.

"If you say so," she relented, sparing a glance his way.

If she had anything more to say to him about it it died on her lips as he tapped her nose. It was a playful act, nothing that hadn't been done before, though it caused her face to heat up and for her heart to pound briefly against her chest.

She had to clear her throat before Blaire could think of anything to respond with, as simple as the conversation was. She didn't bother to wonder as to why Benga would be feeling as bashful as she was at the moment.

"Only if you are, too."

It went without saying that they would be careful. It wasn't often either of them felt the need to remind the other about it. Blaire had to wonder why it was so different this time. What had changed?

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 7:18 pm

Layla wasn't sure how much time had passed. She had eventually calmed her sobs again, listening instead to what noises she could pick up on in the infirmary. It gave her time to sort herself out.

When she did lift her head again, she glanced over at Dragonair. The Pokemon had adopted the same pace as her trainer. She frowned a little at that. Had she worried her?

Layla reached out, her fingertips running along side the Pokemon's back. The movement was stiff and slow though, she made no complaint. The pain had dulled since the pain killer kicked in.

She wasn't sure how long they would be waiting for Lance at this point. Part of her wondered if he was alright, if his anger had calmed. She couldn't deny that she had been shaken by it.

----[x]----

Benga watched her for a moment. They both seemed to be growing rather awkward. So she felt this odd emotion too? She had never spoken up about it before. He cleared his throat, attempting to put the thought out of his mind.

He turned his head, raising it rather high. "Ha, I'll be fine!" he boosted. "I'm more worried about you slipping up!" He continued to jest.

He hoped this effort would relax the both of them a little. They always preferred this kind of thing. Still, his cheeks felt warm and his heart raced. He crossed his arms over his chest, attempting to quash it. It was a annoying to him, not knowing what it was.

Benga scoffed as he caught Kujo shooting them that knowing look. That was something they were seeing quite a lot lately and he couldn't put his finger on as to why. It was beginning to ride on his nerves.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 7:50 pm

Dragonair halted as Layla reached out, stroking her back. She trilled quietly, watching the woman carefully. Would she regress or not? It was hard to tell with Layla. Anything could set her off it seemed.

Had she thought Lance was angry at her? Dragonair didn't see why she would and yet that is the way that Layla had acted before. It left her confused.

Before anything more could be said footsteps drew her attention. Dragonair turned from Layla, watching as Lance entered, his boots, jacket and cape back on. It had been quite some time since he had departed and it looked as if things had gotten done.

Lance spared a glance between Pokemon and woman, wondering what might have transpired when he had been gone. He put the thought from his mind. From the looks of it nothing much had happened.

"Those two have been dealt with," Lance answered after a moment, catching Layla's gaze. "The door to your room is being put back on its hinges now with added locks and you will be keeping Dragonair with you at all times."

He paused, allowing that to sink in for a moment. She might still be in shock, unable to absorb it all in one go. Lance would be as patient as he could bring himself to be for the moment. He would neglect to mention that both Kaiden and Aveline had been demoted to the very bottom of the ranks and he had it in mind to push through that they be transferred to one of the more unsavory areas between Genesis forts and strongholds.

"The Pokemon we've located of yours will be transferred within the hour as well for added security."

----[x]----

Blaire missed Kujo's look, shooting one of her one at Benga. Hers was of exasperated amusement, knowing that Benga would have pulled that sort of argument. Reaching out she pinched at his cheek to deflate that ego a little, however playful it was.

"Oh, sure! I'll slip up. You're Mr. Hero who'll just come right in and save the day at the last minute, hm?"

She chuckled pulling her hand away. Despite the lighter topic she couldn't stop from feeling the way she did with Benga sitting so close. It still left her baffled as to why it was happening now and not before hand. They'd known each other for most of their lives, after all.

"You and your sewer stench, ahoy!" she joked, chuckling harder still.

It was after that statement that she settled back against Kujo's side, crossing her arms over her chest for a little extra warmth through the night. If they didn't at least attempt to settle down now they could be at it, talking for hours. It wasn't exactly what they needed for the moment.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 8:32 pm

Layla lifted her head, silent as he plowed on. Several precautions had been taken for her safety. She didn't feel as safe as she should have though she knew part of this was irrational fear on her end. Layla couldn't calm the fear. She couldn't trust most of these people.

She glanced at him when he'd finished. She was happy that her Pokemon would be arriving soon. She did not physically show it, too tired to really allow herself any other emotion.

Layla ducked her head a moment later, picking at the blanket beneath her.

"Why are you doing all of this for me?" She finally inquired.

She recalled he called her his ally not long ago. She wasn't someone like that or at least, that's what she believed. She hadn't joined Genesis and had no need to. She was thrust upon these people because she'd been caught.

What made her an 'ally' to him? She had no inkling to what the answer could be. He didn't tell her much as it was. All she really knew was that most who she had 'met' wouldn't have even glance at her twice.

----[x]----

Benga scrunched his nose a little at the mention of the sewer smell. Neither had so much noticed it due to being down there for so long. Still, having it brought up embarrassed him if only a little.

"You'll be thankful for it," he joked back. "When I do come save you."

He cleared his throat, feeling rather bashful to be saying that. Why, he had very little idea. What had changed? Other than this feeling, it was a normal thing between them.

At least, that's what he had thought.

Benga glanced at her from the corner of his eye. She seemed to be struggling for warmth again despite the warmer clothing. He scoffed a little at that, his heart pounding against his chest.

Hesitantly, he reached out, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. He notably did not look at her, his cheeks inflamed at the mere motion. He tugged her closer to him, hoping that it would help keep her warm.

"Just so you know..." He attempted to find the words. "So you won't get cold and all."

Benga had never had a need to hesitate in the past. So why was he now? His heart pounded against his chest and the unfamiliar feeling seemed to grow stronger, even in a way, pleased that he was doing this.

It left him rather confused in the end.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 8:52 pm

Lance was quiet for a moment, observing Layla. He hadn't exactly been expecting any noticeable reaction from her. She must have been exhausted and who knew what the pain killer's side effects were. It was silent for the time that she picked at the blanket, mulling it all over.

Dragonair kept at her side as Lance had said she would. He did not want a repeat of tonight and though nothing would happen with him in the room Dragonair would adhere to that.

He shook his head at her question. The nearby clock read that it was around midnight as it continued to tick off the seconds.

"Because you feel you have nothing to provide does not mean that's the way it is," he answered vaguely. Lance just had to find out what it was she could bring to his plan. Until he could rely on her, however, he could not dare risk telling her what that might be.

He strode forward leaning down close to her ear. He made it a point to keep his hands away from her, in case anything of the sort might trigger her.

"Just know that what I have in mind does not adhere to Genesis' ideals."

With that he pulled back, watching her face. It was the most that he could tell her for the time being. How would she feel knowing that he cared more for Pokemon's well-being than that of humans? He couldn't begin to know at this point.

----[x]----

"Well then, I'll hold you to it," Blaire jested, sparing Benga a small smile.

The reminder that he did his best to protect her when she needed it sent her heart fluttering a little and she did her best to ignore it. Still, she had to wonder why Benga seemed so embarrassed to be saying it now. It wasn't like it ever embarrassed him before.

It was quiet for the few minutes that followed. Blaire took the time to relax, settling in for the night. Benga scoffing drew her attention and she looked up just as he drew her closer, an arm over her shoulders to do so. Her face warmed and her heart sped up at the small action, even as she could feel Benga's body heat warming her further.

His answer to her unspoken question seemed rather hesitant. Was he trying to convince himself as well?

"O-of course," she murmured, ducking her head a little. She was sure he wouldn't be able to see the redness on her face but she wanted to be doubly sure. After a moment of trying to regain her composure and hearing Bahamut snickering nearby Blaire gave up, instead settling into Benga's side for the night.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 9:24 pm

Layla hadn't been sure what he meant by those first words. She didn't understand him, didn't understand what he was saying. These weren't words of someone who was an active part of Genesis.

So what was he plotting?

A moment later, as he leaned down to her and spoke, it became clearer. While she had visibly tensed, she listened unsure of what to make of it all. He was someone with his own agenda. He was simply with Genesis to protect himself and his Pokemon, it seemed.

She glanced up at him, pushing her hair out of her face again. Inside, she relaxed quite a bit. He might have acted the part. That was it.

In hindsight, it explained quite a bit more than he knew. She let her hand fall back into her lap, gnawing at the inside of her lip. If he had mentioned it somehow earlier, she would have relaxed a little more. She knew some of the things that had grown into habits would remain as such. They were things she had to grow out of.

This however, she knew when she could have someone to trust, even if she didn't connect well to others.

She reached out, tugging at his sleeve lightly. It was the first contact she'd made with him since the two had met.

"Will you let me know more...?" She inquired quietly. "Given we're in a better place..."

She knew it was a risk even speaking out loud. She kept as quiet as she could. Layla had to know what he had in store for her, if he needed her in the first place.

----[x]----

Benga felt his heart race she she leaned into him a little more. It was a strange thing and he wasn't quite sure what he was feeling. All he knew is it left his face warm and his mind whirling. Why did he act like this now? Any other time, it wouldn't have been a big deal.

What made this so different?

He grunted, trying to put it out of his mind. They needed to sleep so he attempted to relax. He knew Blaire was doing the same. It was late and they needed to get some rest now when they could.

Benga heaved a sigh, tipping his head back and closing his eyes. It would be quite some time before sleep actually fell onto him. He tried to listen to the sounds of the night. Occasionally, a brave Hoothoot or Noctowl would call out. He listened to these sounds, attempting to calm himself.

"Good night..." He whispered though he was unsure if Blaire was awake or not.

He sighed afterward, attempting to let sleep take him though, he knew it would take a lengthy amount of time.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 9:43 pm

Lance watched Layla carefully as she took a hold of his sleeve in her hand. It was a bold move on her part. What was running through her mind as she asked for an elaboration later on? Lance couldn't possibly begin to know and he didn't much want to prod.

His head tipped to the side slightly, observing her. After a moment passed he glanced up discreetly, towards a security camera. They never recorded what went on in doctor's offices - for the privacy factor, however it was very possible someone behind a camera was watching and listening in.

"Perhaps," Lance murmured back.

Tugging his sleeve back out of her hand gently he stood back, glancing at Dragonair. It was a gamble on Layla's psyche but he'd feel better when she was back up in her room, locking the rest of the world out for a time than down here. Doctors were asleep now and only a few were on call nearby. Anyone could slip in.

"It might be best for you to get some rest," he provided, gesturing towards the door. The rest of his thoughts on the matter were left unsaid but it would be easy to tell what he prodded at by his gesture.

----[x]----

In the darkness she could hear Benga sighing and his whisper. More than that her heart thudded painfully loud in her ears and part of her worried that it was audible to those in the broken down little shack as well. She could hear Bahamut nearby, running rounds and even one of the two Meowth was mumbling in its sleep.

It took a long minute before she replied to Benga, wishing him a good night as well.

While she was still warm in the face, pressed up against Benga's side she found she was much warmer all throughout and she relished in it. It would still be awhile before she slipped off into sleep herself but at least she would be able to do so comfortably.

Slowly the world would fade to her, first dozing off before she was gone to the world.

Subject: Re: [PKMN Rp] Bring us Home [OPEN] Sun Jan 27, 2013 10:04 pm

Layla let her hand fall back into her lap. Reaching out to people always left her feeling rather hollow when she felt rejected. While this shouldn't have bothered her she found it had in ways that she couldn't comprehend.

She glanced at the clock. It was rather late but she'd yet felt like she wanted to sleep. Layla knew that she would be guarded throughout the night. She was still rather shaken however and wasn't sure how she felt about the entire issue.

Layla only gave a nod in response, pushing herself from the bed. Her limbs were rather stiff and complained a little with the effort. It could have been worse at this point. If he had any form of concern for her, she didn't take notice to what might have been there.

She rubbed her arm, her gaze on the floor before she would follow him out. Notably, she kept a distance between them now, unsure of what to make of his actions.

Layla found she had a talent for trying to get close to those who didn't want to be close to her, or this is what she assumed. As they walked in silence, she couldn't help but feel alone again, even if she wasn't.