#::🔩 Johto Arc.

[irxnmaiden]

—plotted starter for @redlegend ⛯

Titania's body hits the floor of Olivine's prime arena, sending shock waves that are sure to tremor far beyond the perimeters of the Gym. The Steelix' trainer is unwavering, however; she's long grown accustomed to the trembling that accompanies even the Pokemon's more passive movements. Steeling herself, face reddening and breath leadened by a battle that'd rocked her very core, the young woman steps forth from her pedestal.

A capsule is unclipped from her utility belt, its crackling sound and beam of blueish light siphoning the mammoth-sized silhouette of Titania from within the still-settling dust. You did amazing, girl, Jasmine caresses the heavyball before dutifully clasping it back on its loop, where her currently-carried partners dangle in restful states.

But far from resting is the thunderous beating in the cage of Jasmine's chest. This had been a battle she'd never forget: that much was immediately certain, and early into the match.

The curtain of debris splits as she closes the distance between herself and her competitor, one whose name she's known for quite some time. Seeing him arrive as he had, like a phantom phasing from another dimension and into her own, was as chilling as it was intriguing.

Surely, there's a story behind why his presence has graced the floor of her Gym on this day of all days: were she to ever undercover it would be another story, entirely.

<< It seems your reputation is no joke after all. >>

It isn't often Jasmine gets to communicate through signing, though it's always been a priority of hers to meet people where they're most comfortable. Having spent her formative years aboard ships of sailors from many walks of life, with backgrounds and idiosyncrasies diverse as the seas were deep, she'd grown with the privilege to sponge languages she'd otherwise never have been exposed to.

Fishing for it from within her tote bag—something rarely is she ever seen without, its Mary Poppins-like wonders indeed wondrous, if not its contents completely at random—a Mineral Badge appears in one palm. Upon bestowing it to its rightful owner, she's beaming as brightly as the sun had been at the crack of the day's dawn.

<< It's funny. This is only the seventh badge I've ever been able to grant a challenger for defeating me. >>

[irxnmaiden]

It’s endearing seeing company take to the accommodations well enough as, in truth, very rarely did Jasmine get the opportunity to entertain. Those within her usual circles remained incredibly busy, with seemingly no time in-between tasks to allow for the luxury of breathing. Such hasn’t ever suited Jasmine: as dedicated to her work as she is, forgetting to balance that with leisure has never been conducive.

Yet still, it allows for the confines of the walls around to seem immensely more suffocating; if it weren’t for the companionship of her Pokemon, she’s sure she’d be in much worse condition both mentally and emotionally.

"I'm glad they're suitable!" Primarily because the beds had been out of use for so long; what with Olivine's modernization in recent years, residential homes were more withstanding than ever before. Sea vessels were no exception, as crews occasionally wouldn't be in need of utilizing the Lighthouse—not when their ships had the amenities to provide for several months on end.

Beaming smile fades slightly, the brunette nodding once to Jessica's inquiry, voice softer than before. "I do... two of them." Before allowing her voice to break, she muffles the need to continue. "Perhaps I'll share the story some other time—it's gotten kinda late... though, I've really enjoyed tonight...!"

"If you need anything at all, you can use the landline in the corner to ring me upstairs," she calls while pivoting towards the door, Cairo having poked his head from around the corner to do a quick quality inspection—after seeing Jessica making herself at home, he seems to approve. "And, feel free to let any of your Pokemon out, should they want to stretch or anything—the lighthouse is very safe... if not purportedly haunted in certain corners."

Jasmine laughs gently with that last minute spook, though brightens as she, too, peeks from behind the door's frame. "It's been really, really nice getting to know you, Jessica. I feel honored you've decided to make Olivine your new home."

On their way through the lounge, Jessica noticed Feathers snoozing his little head away on top of a cushion. Whatever he got up to while she and Jasmine were outside must have tired him out. For a moment, she thought about beckoning him to follow her, or even just recalling him into his ball… but she didn’t want to disturb his sleep. Besides, he’ll probably find her come morning anyway.

“I’m honestly surprised it can hold so many people,” Jessica mused, listening intently to Jasmine while keeping pace with her. “I always thought lighthouses were ‘tall but small’, y’know? Though I suppose the people who built this one had an incentive to make it rather big. Considering who the neighbours are, and all.” Storms in Galar could get rather wild, but a Lugia-generated storm sounded like something on another level entirely… internally, she hoped she wouldn’t get caught up in one.

Upon entering the room, Jessica smiled warmly. “Ooh, this looks nice and cosy,” she said, admiring the room. Approaching one of the beds, she gently sat down on it, and seemed to be a bit surprised. “It definitely sounds nice; my old bed back in Galar would creak and groan if you put so much as an apple on it, but this… It’s nice and quiet.” She hoped the same was true for her bed over in her new cottage.

Turning her head up towards the paintings, she was intrigued by them both, and how they captured moments in time that was beyond both her and Jasmine. Even though she had no idea who anyone in the photo was, she knew they each had their own lives, their own journeys, so to speak. “You wouldn’t happen to know anyone there, would you?” she asked Jasmine.

[irxnmaiden]

—starter for @allthingsglittergold​​​ 🍂

Landing gently and unceremoniously at the center of Newbark, it seems as if nothing’s changed. Towards the southeast of the mainland, tucked between woodlands receding from the coast, the quaint hamlet remains immune to the passage of time. Idyllic, simple, welcoming: it’s no wonder that even a honored Champion like Gold would prefer to stay here, as opposed to one of the larger cities that dot throughout Johto.

It has been some time since they’d last spoken, and even longer since they’d had a genuine conversation. What with Gold's busy schedule, between Champion obligations and patrolling the region, it isn’t surprising in the slightest; Jasmine had been busy, too, what with planning an eventual trip to the land of Galar.

She’s never been before, but the winds of change have been calling her name for quite some time. Since meeting the Leader of a place called Spikemuth—not to mention, having been land-bound for quite a while now—Jasmine’s thought of nothing more than quenching this renewed since of adventure. Into the unknown is where she typically discovers herself, after all.

Which has brought her to make this visit today!

She leads with a leisurely stroll, after recalling Panzu, in the general direction of Gold’s home. But before she’s given the chance to knock, the front door that had served as her destination cracks open ajar, spilling out one current Champion—to this day, one of the astoundingly few trainers to ever secure a Mineral Badge from Jasmine’s grasp, in a match she's still not forgotten.

“Well, hello there, Mr. Suzuki,” she speaks in a tone much more formal than one she would when around her fellow Leaders, though respect in this case has certainly been earned. Jasmine bows, deeply, folding her arms daintily behind her back. “How have you been lately? It’s been while since we last spoke, so I figured I’d drop by, y’know– see how things are in your neck of the woods.”

[irxnmaiden]

[ @vivalavillain​ / “Mr. Apollo”; continued from x ]

“We’re… a little outta the way for some travelers,” she retorts, briefly, on the frequency of challengers at her Gym. “Most up-and-coming trainers sadly give up by the time they reach Ecruteak. And, there is always the case of Whitney…” The brunette is full aware of her co-worker’s battling prowess: she’s afraid that, if it weren’t for the type advantage, even she would have trouble against Goldenrod’s golden girl.

Although, intuition tells her this is simply another moment of intrusively selling herself short. Whitney is certainly a tough cookie, but there’s a reason Jasmine is situated on the later half of the Johto League’s tour. A lightweight, Olivine’s leader is not.

The mention of Team Rocket however brings a brief wince to her small frame, a sour look only appearing on her face for but a moment. She’d followed the headlines as they appeared, day after day, like the rest of the region: it takes a lot for her to shake the feeling that they were still out there. That they, in fact, weren’t defeated, as the media would have many believe.

She refrains from dwelling on it, though: paranoia has never suited her.

“Slots really aren’t my thing,” she laughs softly, finding no reason to lie to the gentleman. “Lady Luck leaves the building as soon as I step in! But I did go inside briefly, with a few of my other League-mates, to check it out. I’m happy to hear that it is doing so well… Goldenrod’s really growing, and at such a rapid pace. It seems to be changing, with every visit. Kinda blows my mind a little.”

[irxnmaiden]

Hi Jasmine! What's an interaction with a Pokémon that you'll never forget? What is the Pokémon? How did that interaction go? What about it made it particularly special? Do you still interact or keep in contact with that Pokémon? Do you still think about it on occasion?

“I... don’t speak of it often enough, about the time Team Rocket stormed the lighthouse in Olivine.” Perhaps due to the trauma surrounding it, however recounting the events seems important for her healing. “We’d recently had a long spell of violent thunderstorms. Many of us knew them to be a sign that the native Lugia were enraged about their nests being invaded by Rocket grunts. Chuck and I worked overtime fending them off from the Whirl Islands, and well... unfortunately, that left both Cianwood and Olivine defenseless.

Those thugs would move in the shadows and they’d prey on the helpless, right beneath our noses. By the time I’d realized something was up, it was already too late—”

A well-earned wince, recalling that evening:

“Amphy, though, tried to warn me that something wasn’t right. I was still so incredibly young, hadn’t been gym leading for more than a year or two. So naïve, and ill-equipped to deal with the things that were going on... even despite the continued support of my then-colleagues.

It wasn’t long before they’d reach the summit, leaving Amphy and I cornered. To spare all the details, the stand-off lasted a couple of hours. Amphy and I never gave up that fight, even though her health issues were flaring up at the time. I was in complete disbelief by the trust she gave to me in that moment—her believing that, together, we could change the course of history for the better. Or, at the very least, defend the town she loved, the town that I was growing to love.

I miss her greatly, and do think of that night often—whether I openly talk about it or not. I genuinely don’t think its something that I’d ever forget, even if I wanted to. And, honestly? I’d never want to, ever. Not after all that it taught me, and continues to teach me in retrospect.”

[irxnmaiden]

Never one too fussy, Jasmine's relatively quick once she reaches her loft. The blanket she's tacked above the window haphazardly droops in one corner, allowing for soft sunlight to filter into her retreat's interior. Piles of books, magazines, and other memorabilia litter the dresser and several side tables' surfaces, with lamps taking up what little room was left available in the free-for-all.

Finding the half-bath towards the back and, soon, she's examining herself in the mirror. There's still a fluttering excitement when she remembers the upcoming show; mulling over what to wear, Jasmine decides to cross that specific bridge for when the time itself arises.

For now? She's still got the comfort of being in her element.

Within a few minutes, Jasmine is once again descending from the spiral staircase, appearing refreshed and prepared to get on with the day before another moment slips by. "I'm baaack," she calls comically, feet landing on the hardwood flooring of the common area with a double tap. Below and beyond the lighthouse's guard rails, yachts drift serenely across crystalline waters, glittering beneath what little sunlight shone through the cloud cover.

"Gosh, I hope it doesn't rain again... not that I mind the rain, but..." Ducking and surveying the clouds above briefly through the window, she spots Panzu soaring among them. "Let's get a move on, whatdy'a say?" Her feet continue their pacing towards the lift, even still, summoning the elevator to meet them here atop the summit.

Emptying the mug, he set it on the counter, catching what she’d said upon it hitting the surface. A hand found the back of his neck as he cleared his throat. “Y’re just hittin’ me with all th’ mushy stuff this mornin’, huh?” he managed, an honestly rather shy smile present. He’d be lying if his first instinct wasn’t to suspect her of lying or being disingenuous. Friendships… didn’t exactly come easy to him. They never did. Let alone him allowing himself time or opportunity for one. Too much else going on around him and in his head.

Jasmine, however, gave him the chance to clear his mind for once. To confide in someone and let himself just… exist with someone. Man he was starting to dread when he had to head back to Galar…

“But, aye… feeling’s mutual. Didn’t think I’d be ‘friend material’, but aye. Storms can be good sometimes.”

Gaze following hers, he nodded. “Right. I won’t be long either.” All he really needed to do was get this Rattata’s nest of hair under control and get rid of any remains of yesterday’s makeup. Which was exactly what he did, letting the hair-tie he’d used before circle his wrist.

Giving his hair one last run-through with a hand, he stepped out. Hey, maybe the “all natural” look would do okay on him. Rarely ever did he go without at least eyeliner or blush, so here’s hoping he won’t look too bad.

[irxnmaiden]

[ starter for @executive-geneticist​ ]

Asagi Cafe attracts quite the slew of clientele, specifically the sea-faring type. Those versed in the ways of the waves, gnarly and tussled by long stretches out on the open waters, just them against the elements. With tales of fighting monstrous beasts of the deep, as well as the strange and frightening sights seen in lands far off, they remind Jasmine much of her earliest memories aboard her father’s ship.

She misses the salted air when embarking upon a vessel, always the promise of a new destination awaiting over the horizon. It isn’t quite the same, being anchored in one place. She’s grateful, but also at times, stagnant. 

Still, her home in Olivine is what she’s come to love and cherish, honoring the townspeople and the community as something worthy of protection. Her Gym, as well as duties both in and around the city, keep her busy. So despite that stagnation, there’s still a greater dose of said gratitude...

‘Jasmine,’ the head chef calls to her, breaking her from her day-dreamy state—taking her back from the hypothetical ship on which she was sailing, and planting her firmly, once again, here within the diner. ‘Please take this complimentary coffee and appetizer to table #3. He’s an affluent businessman... been in and out a lot lately.′

‘I don’t think you’ve worked any shifts when he’s come in. ...Go on, introduce yourself!’

With a preemptive hesitance, but also genuine curiosity, Jasmine carries over the chef’s token of appreciation, placing the selections gently on the tabletop of booth #3. “Compliments of the house,” she says with a hospitable sweetness, always one to fear coming across brash when it comes to first encounters. “My name’s Jasmine, the residential Leader of Olivine. Thank you for your continued patronage!” 

[irxnmaiden]

TAG POST II repurposed this too here’s part one

[irxnmaiden]

the thing jasmine is most excited about in paldea (aside from quality husband time and making sandwiches) is that she’s finally undergoing her own gym challenge! it’s something she’s always wanted to do, but being thrusted into the career path of gym leader certainly put a halt to any of those plans — until now, because now that’s she’s retired/married, she’s giving herself a bit more freedom to pursue the things she’s always wanted!

and also, wiglett. jas is most certainly bringing one home with her.

[irxnmaiden]

mtsilvermute​:

@irxnmaiden wrote: >>>

Red smiled over his right shoulder before spinning 'round to face his host. Clasping his hands together, the champion bent at the waist, bowing deeply enough to threaten throwing his hat from his head. Charizard, bewildered by the bright lights, missed his cue until a few seconds later, scampering in a circle to match Red's posture and bowing in turn with a hand over his chest.

Red rebounded and looked to his right hand, which palmed a PokéGear, and slid his thumb over what must have been a send button. It's beautiful, read the message that emerged on Jasmine's phone screen. Red's left thumb joined his right in typing a message at Electrode speed: Don't mind my muteness. You can speak as much as you'd like: I've learned to type as fast as I think. :)

And should the silence ever unsettle... Red was all smiles as he unclipped a Pokéball from the inside of his vest, the capsule opening to unleash a diminutive yellow rodent.

"Piii...?"

Red gestured at the cityscape below.

"Pi-KA!" Pikachu scrambled to the edge—careful not to launch from it—and gripped the sides with excited paws. His jaw dropped; his beady eyes widened; and sparks emanated from his beaming cheeks. Charizard, however, was less enthused. Snaking behind Pikachu with a domineering huff, the flame Pokémon outstretched a paw and tapped the ground. The moment Pikachu turned to address the pseudo-dragon, Charizard lightly tugged Pikachu's hind paw back from the edge. "Piiii..." whined the rodent with the sullen demeanor of a teenager, retreating back to Red's side and away from immanent danger.

I think he'll make enough noise for the two of us, typed Red with the deepest of chuckles. Pardon my manners: I forgot to answer your question! We had a wonderful flight that contained nothing of note. And despite the length of our travels, I must admit that I'm not one for naps - and should you wish to spend any time out on the town or otherwise introducing me to life in Olivine, my social battery is fully charged and I am raring to go.

Red hit the enter key before typing any further. But I would certainly love to see your gym before all else! What a wondrous place it looked to be from above.

Pikachu craned his neck from around Red's ankles, straining to see Red's texts. "Pika..." he mused. Charizard had already returned from his edge-guarding and stood behind them both, absorbing the sights about him with slightly anxious eyes.

Red pocketed his PokéGear and looked to his Poké-companions - first Pikachu proper, then Charizard from over his left shoulder. ? he pantomimed, directing his right hand towards the inside of his vest. Charizard looked to Jasmine, then to Red; Red responded with a knowing chuckle and an exhale through the nose, fishing his phone from his pocket once more.

Do you allow walking Pokémon in your gym? I promise that you'll never meet a better-behaved Charizard - nor Pikachu! Though perhaps the latter isn't saying as much as it should... Red snickered as he sent the message - an airy tone that betrayed the existence of his vocal chords. Sensing reason to worry, Pikachu flashed Red a frown. "Piii!" he droned in the cadence of a human "hey"—but Red simply snapped his fingers and pointed to his right shoulder. In equal parts resignation and desire for rest, Pikachu leapt atop Red's shoulder and settled against the champion's neck, closing his eyes to the world that Red was prepared to embrace once and for all.

With her own PokéGear in clutch, Jasmine reads off Red’s message while scanning his features here beneath fading sunlight. She smiles softly, quick in her efforts to provide a response: ‘you know i’d never mind something like that, don’t worry yourself a bit!’ 

Though she may situationally alternate between methods of communication, conversing with another in a way most comfortable for them takes precedence; Red is her guest, after all, here by means of her own invitation. Traveling from the place he calls home—where the elements are at their most volatile—and into such new, developing surroundings is surely jarring in some manner, though presumably accompanied by a dose of adrenaline-fueled wonderment.

A prodigy such as Red has faced larger, more daunting challenges, she muses quietly; excitement builds for her, upon realizing that she’s providing another opportunity for adventure—one they’d be able to share together.

Pikachu’s appearance beckons a wave from Jasmine, the rodent-esque creature always lifting her spirits with their effervescent charms. While a few of her own Pokémon remain gawking from within the interior of the Lighthouse’s lounge, others have since departed back to their quarters; sounds of a typical squabble between Hassa and Cairo also emanate from within the walls of the massive landmark, a wrinkled brow resting on Jasmine’s face as she imagines what sort of wreckage will be left in the wake of their quarrel—nothing out of the ordinary for the two very opinionated dual-types.

‘Then it’s safe to say we will have plenty of noise tonight, between Pika and my own rowdy bunch,’ her fingers fly rapidly, keeping the flow of conversation natural, as night continues creeping across the horizon. ‘Really glad to hear your flight went well, considering the distance. It’s really nice to see you again, Red. Your friends, too.’ 

A follow-up immediately accompanies at the behest of her own urgency, anxious in her own way: as Red’s hostess, Jasmine’s keen on keeping this visit as companionable as possible. ‘If you’d like to go down to town, I’d be more than happy to show you all my favorite places! It’s actually pretty quiet it seems, judging from up here–’ Which she does, and often: from her roost, Olivine is a glimmering jewel under her ever-watchful eyes. 

Jasmine’s own soft chuckle arises, beaming towards both Pikachu and Charizard while continuing to deliver assurances simultaneously. ‘It would be my pleasure to show you the Gym! And, no need to ever worry– your Pokémon are more than welcome to walk freely anywhere within the building.’ Considering the renovations granted to restructure the building from the ground up, her words are as sure as can be: if Olivine’s Gym can handle the tirades of a particularly savage Steelix, a Charizard and Pikachu shouldn’t be of any worry whatsoever!

‘C’mon, let’s get you settled into your quarters and then we can head down to the city. I’d like you to meet a couple of my partners, too! Many of them have been very anxious to meet you and yours.’ 

She turns, though continues typing as she issues them to follow through the glass doors and into the interior lounge, quaint as it is comfortable.

‘Happy belated as well, Red. I hope you enjoyed the goodies I sent you!’

[irxnmaiden]

[ starter for @obstrucct​​ ]

Olivine’s hazy summer sun begins to set to the west of Johto, over the sprawling oceans that lay beyond the storied land of legends. “What a delightful day,” Jasmine muses, closing the door to Asagi Cafe behind her, locking it tight after finishing an impromptu shift. Typically, aside from leading the local Gym, she assists at the diner, one frequented often by both seafaring sailors and foreign tourists alike.

Skipping along the cobblestoned sidewalk overlooking the piers, she notes the silhouette of a figure, a stranger. They seem to be viewing the Glitter Lighthouse, by the way their stare fixates on the glowing monument. Meekly, she saunters closer, marveling at the sight along with them. “Amphy must be hard at work tonight,” she calls, observantly, to the stranger. “Seems like a storm will be rolling in soon — she always works her hardest before a big storm.”

Smiling, she bows, as is customary for many of Johto. A breeze blows through the empty streets. “My name’s Jasmine... and, yours?”

[irxnmaiden]

Buzz buzz.

Descending from top of the lighthouse, Jasmine skips several steps as she goes into the kitchenette adjacent to her loft. Snagging her phone from the countertop of the marble-slabbed island, she hurriedly unlocks it: she’d been waiting patiently for a reply, face lighting up as she sees the notification of one sitting in her inbox. Quickly, Jasmine’s fingers navigate the buttons:

To: Red MSG: I didn’t mean to alarm you—just wondering why you weren’t at the last League summit is all!

In all fairness, Red is of the caliber where his attendance isn’t considered as mandatory as it is for the leaders and elites of the League—all more susceptible to Lance’s scoldings than the enigmatic legend who occupies the isolated Mt. Silver. Jasmine’s always maintained a quiet respect for the fellow, having heard plenty tales of his exploits and of his terrifying prowess when it comes to battling.

Yet, even as she respects his privacy immensely, she isn’t immune to worrying over him from time to time. And so, be it as it may, Jasmine’s more than happy to fill him in whenever she gets the chance:

To: Red MSG: We didn’t really discuss a lot this time. Mostly just rumors of some shady ppl who looked a little like Team Rocket, around Goldenrod.

It’d been quite a while since the notorious gang of crooks disbanded after their conquest of Johto was foiled. However, paranoia runs high among those still reeling to find normalcy in their everyday lives. Jasmine, settling her own traumas regarding the incident, decides to send another message to clarify that these are rumors and little else—to ease Red’s mind, mostly:

To: Red MSG: I personally don’t think there’s anything to worry about tho, but I definitely wanted to loop you in! How’s your training been going btw?

@irxnmaiden asked: “What happened to you?”

Fwip. Blaoh. Fwip. Blaoh. Red's hand cut through the falling Mt. Silver snow, slicing snowflakes with a "P" in Kanto Sign Language. With each swipe, Red's Blastoise roared and brutalized the nearest tree stump, its frostbitten bark withering from the brutal blows. Dark Pulse was too vile a move to be practiced on the mountain's indigenous wildlife - Red shivered from the thought, less the cold gnawing at his exposed arms - so the tree stump served a purpose: Red had managed to cut Blastoise’s response time to a delay of .3 seconds, far faster than a prospective competitor could be with words.

Buzz buzz. 

(1) MSG: Jasmine [Click to open]

Huh. A PokéGear message from Jasmine on a Thursday afternoon? It made some sense: Jasmine and Red had attended the same Johto Conference planning meetings, at which Red's PokéGear number was made available to all Johto Gym Leaders for ease of contact. Business, business. It could wait at least an hour: Red had work of his own to do.

Red shed his hat and shoes upon returning to his shelter, fishing his PokéGear from his right pocket and unlocking it with a spare thumb as he wandered to his kitchen. Ugh, he'd skipped lunch again. Time to figure out a last-minute mea--

"What happened to you?"

Red froze - a feat no Mt. Silver snowstorm could accomplish. 

To: Jasmine MSG: I'm unsure of your meaning, but my instinct is to reply "I wish I knew." 

To: Jasmine MSG: Is there something you wish to discuss?

Red fingered a loaf of bread sitting somberly in his fridge. Had he sounded too affected? Maybe another message was warranted. . .

To: Jasmine MSG: (I'm willing to converse, to be clear: I'm done training for the day.)

Okay, maybe that hadn't clarified a thing, but at least the ball was out of Red's court. The loaf of bread huffed as Red threw it atop his counter. He'd figure out what to make of it later.

[irxnmaiden]

Hearing the flurry of messages incoming, Jasmine rushes back to her kitchenette to check the responses, hoping they’d be from Red. Amphy, atop the lighthouse, is busy at work: a typical afternoon storm is rolling in, bringing along with it bouts of rain and sporadic lightning. The Ampharos would be working overtime until the tempest clears, but it’s really no ordeal—late summer storms such as this are a common occurrence in Olivine, always prevalent during the change of seasons.

Reclining onto the sofa in the lighthouse gallery’s seating area, she catches up with all of Red’s texts—he’s dumped quite a lot of info on her, but it isn’t as if she minds: additional context is always welcome, after all. Her fingers fly and she quickly types out her replies:

MSG: i’ll be sure to keep you posted should i hear anything else about Rocket, thank you as always Red-

—it comforts her knowing he’s as vigilant as she is when it comes to keeping the sister regions clear of the thugs they’d worked so hard to eradicate—

MSG: glad to hear you’re finding your spark!! i can imagine that its been slow on the challenger front... even my gym has suffered recently, not many trainers seem to make it past whitney these days.

—after all, the Goldenrod Leader’s Miltank is quite the menace —

MSG: i have been meaning to ask more about your plans specifically regarding the Conference, so thank you for filling me in!! it would be my honor to participate in any way i can! please let me know if there’s anything i can do to prepare.

He’s absolutely right: the misconceptions of training the Steel-type has recently been discouraging many from trying their hand at it, making the hiring of Gym trainers incredibly difficult as of late. Honor swells in her heart though, as she contemplates her role in potentially inspiring another generation of specialists. Anxiously, she awaits for Red’s replies, closing her eyes while the sounds of rain batter the windows of Glitter Lighthouse.

@irxnmaiden wrote: >>>

Bread. Too versatile to eat alone; too delicious to mar with toppings. A dilemma for the ages - or maybe just Red, whose overactive taste buds rejected flavor whereas his crumbling body could use some protein. His PokéGear and stomach both rumbled as he retrieved a lunch meat package from the fridge and threw two slices of bread on a paper plate. This was fine: He’d eat his daily dose of vegetables later.

Red folded a slice of bread around two slices of lunch meat, creating a sandwich from the two halves of the former, and held it in his hungry mouth to munch while typing: 

MSG: I understand now; thank you for clarifying. I believe I was busy during the last Summit proper, but I’m making up for it with my continued attendance at the Johto Conference planning meetings. 

MSG: I’m disheartened to hear that there’s even the slightest rumbling of Team Rocket activity anywhere. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do for Johto in the wake of it. 

Red had finished half of his makeshift sandwich before realizing just how much he had typed. Did Jasmine mind? This was a typical text conversation to Red, but his talkativity could catch her off-guard if unprepared. . .

Hmm. Better to ask forgiveness for infodumping than permission to do so. Here he went.

MSG: Training is exciting to me for the first time in a while. I was plateauing at first between the lack of recent challengers (challengers - I mean “those that achieve all 16 badges and climb the mountain to battle me,” just to be clear - are down 46% from last year) and my lack of interest in teaching old dogs new tricks (I’m the old dog in this case). But my involvement in the Johto Conference is predicated on the possibility that we could structure high-end showcase battles to inspire a new generation of Gym-goers and potential Champions.

MSG: And while my faith in my skills is lacking, I would certainly like to win one of those battles, hahaha.

MSG: I understand that planning this Conference is still in-progress and everything is up in the air. However, if you’re interested in the prospect of battling on a main stage (or any stage, really), I’d love to know. There was a recent paper in a Unovan academic journal that discussed a generational decline in Steel Trainers due to misconceptions regarding Steel types’ training “difficulty” and their upkeep costs: Perhaps you can inspire a new wave!

Less a text message than an email - or maybe a book. Indeed, Red had typed each message out before sending them, copy-and-pasting them in rapid succession so that Jasmine didn't text back before Red could send the next one. In the back of Red’s mind he knew how much he’d written, and maybe even felt some shame. But it was better to lob a bucket of balls into one’s court than sheepishly toss around the same deflated Tepigskin. 

Red pulled a bag of baby carrots from his fridge and gnawed on one while waiting. No plans had he for the rest of the evening: Jasmine could take her time.

[irxnmaiden]

mtsilvermute​:

[closed starter for @irxnmaiden]

Red touches down in Violet City atop his Charizard, hiding his eyes behind the brim of his hat as he slides into the city's premiere Poké Mart. Two heads turn; three children tug on their mothers' sleeves; and Red tunes each one out as swiftly as he moves, beelining for the shop counter.

The teenager behind the register stares at Red with sullen, expectant eyes. "How can I help you," he drones.

Red places a notecard atop the counter and slides it forward with a sturdy finger:

I placed an order online and I'm here to retrieve it. Order #17932108

The teenager slinks below the counter with a sigh, pulling out a plastic bag. "Three boxes of granola bars and a jar of peanut butter?"

Red nods.

"Well," the cashier slides it back alongside Red's index card. "Here you go. Thanks for stopping by; please come again."

It's only when the next cashier's customer approaches, angrily waving an expired coupon, that the teen remembers where he's seen that hat. "Wait—"

But Red is already gone. The sound of Charizard's wings will echo in his mind for the remainder of his shift, softening the abrasions of his vitriolic patrons—as melancholic and comforting as any gesticulation from a ghost.

**************

Red wiped granola crumbs from his vest as Charizard circled the Olivine skies, slowing with each loop in preparation for their descent. The lighthouse's balcony seemed serviceable as a runway, but Charizard wasn't taking any chances: With the delicacy of a Flying Pokémon a sixth of his size, Charizard spiraled down to the center of the balcony, hovered ten feet above it, and sunk a centimeter per second with feet outstretched. So feather-light was his landing that the lighthouse didn't budge beneath his girth.

Red lay a hand on Charizard's neck, a placid smile signaling his gratitude before he slid from the dragon's back. Jasmine would be meeting him up here any moment now. Yet as excited as he was to see her, he wouldn't rush things: The sun was only just beginning to retreat below the deep-blue sea, casting its pink-and-purple rays about the balcony—and even Charizard turned his head to embrace the scene.

Charizard and Red stood like gargoyles at the lighthouse's very edge, the wind reaching for a hug and blowing gentle "caw"s their way. Wingulls peppered the horizon, hungry for dinner and attention both, and Red traced their flight paths down to the city below. Somehow he'd forgotten just how high up he really was—and how visible that sprawling cityscape was from above. As if in a museum, Red clasped his hands behind his back and sauntered to his left, closer to the city side. Lamplights were just beginning to ignite, and the streets boiled with Friday-night energy foreshadowing future friendships and bad decisions. Only in a city of Olivine's size could pedestrians and pavement put on such a show.

Red took a deep breath and turned to his Charizard. ? he pantomimed, gesturing at his bag. Charizard shook his head with a deep breath of his own, mirroring the relaxation of Red's shoulders. Red smiled and turned back to the city, fishing his PokéGear from his pocket:

To: Jasmine MSG: I have arrived! I delayed sending this message for a spell because the view is just breathtaking. I couldn't look away.

And back to the pocket with thee. Red rolled his shoulders back once more and smiled serenely at the skyline below. Warmth, it seemed, was not just in the air, but in the very foundation of the city and its structures. He could learn to like it here.

Preparations for Red’s arrival took quite a bit of elbow grease from everyone pitching in, Jasmine and her team working tirelessly to bring the interior of the Lighthouse back to life. When left to her own devices and with relatively little company, things could often get out of hand: her Pokemon enjoyed reveling around uncontained, which she much preferred—despite the quickness at which they’d turn the sanctuary into their own playpen.

As it turns out, ornery Steel-types and the others that Jasmine’s come to befriend can surely make a mess of things without even trying. Furniture would often be sent for repairs, between the skirmishes that’d occasionally break out when tensions flared. Yet even despite this and other mishaps, the willingness of everyone to contribute when it came down to it never failed to make their Leader smile. She had to ensure Red’s comfort when he’d finally arrive, and they all quickly understood this sentiment without a second guess.

Things were soon prepared for her elusive friend’s visit, his quarters immaculate to the point they looked more like a luxury Airbnb than a place typically occupied from sailors in town for a brief spell. With the living space near the summit of the Lighthouse now adorned with candles, blankets, and enough snacks to tide anyone over for longer than necessary, Jasmine looked at her and her team’s finished results with pride. Things were finally intact, Glitter Lighthouse now the perfect place for a long-awaited rendezvous.  

Beeping of her PokéGear alerts Jasmine quickly of Red’s arrival, her spirits soaring through the roof as anticipation makes room for excitement. A few finishing touches here, and there, and perfection: everything looks right and in its place. The Leader’s feet can’t carry her fast enough to the lift; it quickly shoots her several stories up, to where the balcony is accessible from the commons area just below Amphy’s quarters. She wastes not a second in responding to the text message, overjoyed at the possibility of greeting him herself and in person.

Lamps lighting the surfaces found around and about the seating area, a vintage film (one of her favorites) playing on her rabbit-eared television set, Jasmine makes her way towards the door from the gallery onto the deck overlooking the sparkling seas. Her first sighting of Red and his signature Charizard brings almost a nostalgic overtone to her already-warm demeanor, as she too takes in the sights they’d been enjoying to themselves. 

She attempts to make a bit of noise as she approaches the others, in the case not to startle them too much. At the large windows overlooking the balcony are several of her Pokemon, lined up and ready to finally meet the trainer Jasmine had talked fondly about over the years: as much a legend to them as he was to those setting out on their journeys to this very day.

“I’m glad you were able to enjoy the view at this hour,” her voice is soft, almost in-tune with the waves lapping below by the docks. A gentle breeze accompanies her presence now, the sun lingering to the west as it continues its dip in skies both purple and pink. “The view from up here... dare I say, one of the greatest treasures Johto has to offer.” With a brief and polite bow, Jasmine turns from the enamoring scene to thank Red and his partner for taking her up on this offer. “It’s wonderful, seeing you two. Let me properly welcome you to Olivine! I... hope you had a relatively nice flight here?”

[irxnmaiden]

mtsilvermute​:

@irxnmaiden wrote: >>>

Red returned to his living room with Pikachu atop his right shoulder, the gleeful mouse giggling at a job well done. Red sipped his water with gratitude in his dark-veiled, down-turned eyes, which scanned his PokéGear expectantly.

MSG: My birthday is next week on the 28th. I wouldn’t mind coming over sometime after; perhaps the evening of the 30th? Let me know if that is long-enough notice for you to prepare! I’m very excited to stop by and would love to spend a night or two. :)

Red typed the message slowly with his right thumb as Pikachu climbed over his left shoulder, clinging to Red’s left arm and threatening to slide. “Easy…” Red whispered, but Pikachu couldn’t help himself: The Pokémon swung down Red’s forearm and clung to it like a Slakoth in a tree, tufts of electricity sparking from his cheeks. 

Red sighed and closed his eyes. It was unlikely he’d have a spare hand with which to type another message soon, so he swiftly sent one more:

MSG: Just let me know what time I should land and where: My Charizard will handle the rest! I’m ecstatic to see you and Olivine proper!

Red plopped down on the couch next to Espeon, who had raised his head to spectate Red’s attempts at Pikachu-wrangling. Pikachu was squirming back up Red’s left arm to return to his rightful spot on Red’s right. All smiles and sparks, the mouse kneaded along Red’s shoulder— leaving Red enough time to press on Pikachu’s back and shift him down to Red’s chest, cradling the Pokémon as if a baby in his arms. Bedtime now, thought Red, and he and Espeon rose from the couch in tandem to trot towards Red’s bedroom. 

Pikachu rubbed his staticky cheeks along Red’s vest as the three reached Red’s bed. Red and Espeon both sat down on Red’s sheets as playful “piiii”s filled the room—and in seconds had Pikachu launched from Red’s chest to run in circles about the blankets. 

“Piiiii!” 

Red’s eyebrows rose in a goading, knowing gesture.

“Pikaaaaa.”

Red suppressed a chuckle in the palm of his right hand, his smile spreading past the borders of his fingers. 

“Piiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii.” 

“Bedtime now,” whispered Red from behind his hand. 

“Piii!” Pikachu hopped like an Arcanine from one side of the bed to the other, kicking up the blankets and unhooking the sheets. 

Red sighed. Locking eyes with Espeon, Red reached for the space between the cat’s ears and scratched them—a preemptive apology. And with a sharp inhale did Red leap for Pikachu, snatching the Pikachu in his arms and writhing about the sheets with a low growl. 

Pikachu yelped and “chuuuu”d his way to freedom, wriggling from Red’s grasp and landing on four feet, his cheeks sparking in faux-intimidation. “Piiiii…” He circled the sheets with narrowing eyes, his battle-hungry gaze locked onto Red’s.

Red shifted left. Pikachu followed. Red moved right; Pikachu did the same. Pikachu mirrored every one of his motions until Red gave up with a huff, sliding off the foot of the bed to slump on the floor in sorrow.

“Piii…?” Pikachu frowned. But they were having so much fun. Pikachu slithered to the edge of the bed, behind Red’s shriveled-up form, and raised a tentative, comforting paw to touch Red’s shoulder…

And the Champion, ever a Champion, snatched Pikachu by the arms to sling him over his shoulder into his loving, smothering grasp. “Gotcha.”

“P-Pii—” Veritable x-signs coated Pikachu’s eyes as his tongue lost its place in his mouth, and the poor Pokémon conceded a moment later to the warmth of Red’s embrace.

“Bedtime now,” Red whispered again, and he gently raised Pikachu back onto the bed. Pikachu snaked under the covers and up to the pillow with a “pi,” while Espeon swished his tail in placid, impenetrable delight. Red crawled after Pikachu and pulled the covers up behind them both. Playful second-winds were in Pikachu’s nature—and it was in Red’s to respond in kind. With a collapse of his phone case and a flick of his lamp, Red said goodnight to the mountain and drifted into dreams.

To: Red MSG: the 30th sounds like a great time, we can even have a small celebration for you!! you should be fine to touch down here at the lighthouse any time you please. i’ll go ahead and write you in on my calendar and get started with prepping for your visit. i’m looking forward to it!!

Wrapping up what may very well be her last outgoing message of the evening, Jasmine squeals in excitement; Junior mirrors his trainer, small bleats escaping him as his flippers wave about. “Red’s coming to town,” she gushes to her Ampharos, the creature finally knowing what all the fuss is about. “We’ve gotta get this place ship-shape. It isn’t every day a Champion stops by for a visit!”

Jasmine moseys towards the satchel she’d thrown atop the sofa earlier that day. After rummaging for a few moments, three capsules are withdrawn; within the bright flashing and crackling of energy, three teammates materialize in the living quarters of the Lighthouse. 

“Edie, I need you to dust the rafters and other hard-to-reach places, please,” and the Ledian is off to fetch the duster, her tiny wings zipping her through the interior of the supply closet back past the kitchenette. “Ipchi, you’re in charge of anything low or stuffed under furniture—including Junior’s stash of snacks.” The plucky Ampharos bolts upright as if trying to object, the small Mawile snickering as he’s off to inspect for crumbs and trash that’s potentially missed the receptacle. 

“And lastly, Cairo,” Jasmine’s Lucario stands at attention, telepathically knowing already what’s expected of him. “You’re going to be stationed to tidy up Red’s lodgings.” 

‘The 5th floor, Captain’s wing. Last room on the right overlooking the bay.’ Cairo communicates the aural message, to which Jasmine nods in confirmation. The Lucario grunts politely as he’s dismissed, taking to the elevator and traveling several stories down to begin his task. With everyone assigned duties, Jasmine begins cutting off the lamps that adorn the seating area, slowly closing up shop for the night.

Amphy’s tail continues shining over the seas while Jasmine begins her ascent up the spiral staircase to her loft. It’s quiet and comfortable, alit with the glow of her massive lamp collection. One by one, she dims them all, before changing into a nightgown. Jasmine takes one last look at the waters below, noting the way the moon’s reflecting within the waves as if they’re a mirror in the twilight.

Junior soon joins his trainer in her sleeping quarters, immediately beelining towards his make-shift “nest” in the corner: a mass of blankets, pillows, and plushies, with a noticeable indent pressed down in the middle. Circling much like a feline, the young Ampharos crawls within his soft cocoon. “Night night, Junior,” Jasmine calls gently, her fingers finding the switch to the bed-side lamp. Swathed now only in darkness, she silently drifts off to sleep, the light of the moon dancing with that of Amphy’s tail just beyond her windowsill.

[irxnmaiden]

mtsilvermute​:

@irxnmaiden wrote: >>>

MSG: It is very cold up here and will only grow colder as the months go by. Are you sure that’s in your best interest? I don’t mind a trip to the coast, after all. :)

Red folded his arms and leaned back against his side of the couch, turning onto his left shoulder with a sigh. Red had typed a lot - more than is typical of him in a given conversation - and needed five minutes with naught on his mind. 

Espeon raised his head in wistful worry, scanning the Champion as a nurse would one’s vitals. Red caught his unblinking gaze and closed his eyes in cat-like fashion. “I’m okay,” he whispered with a smile, and Espeon’s unblinking gaze sunk back down into the couch cushion atop his crossed paws.

Seven minutes passed before Red picked up his PokéGear again. The first thing he did was internet-search “olivine gym remodel” to confirm Jasmine’s comments. Wow. Jasmine’s mention of multi-level manufacturing hinted at a factory feel, yet its soaring ceilings and past-honoring architecture instilled in Red a dizzying sense of wonder. Or maybe that was vertigo talking. Regardless, Red responded in kind:

MSG: I just took a look at the new look, and — wow. This is amazing! I would love a tour of the place sometime. Truly awe-inspiring what you’ve done to it!

(Were those enough exclamation points?)

MSG: I’m very glad to hear of your roster’s growth. While I haven’t felt the need to do the same myself, I am always heartened to hear of the formation of new bonds—

No no no. Too stilted. Delete and retype.

—[deldeldeldeldeldeldel]— 

MSG: I’m so happy to hear of your roster’s growth. I am always heartened to hear of how Trainers bond to new Pokémon, even if I haven’t done the same in quite some time (not for lack of capability, mind; just out of lack of desire, haha). And with that said, it’s been a similarly long time since I’ve been amicably present among Steel Pokémon, rather than opposing them on the battlefield. I would love to meet your friends, old and new, whenever a trip may be manageable. 

MSG: Excepting the end of October, my schedule is incredibly open due to the challenger drought: You can throw a dart at a date and I would expect it to be available. :)

"Piiiiii…"

With a blink, Red pushed his neck back to gaze towards the kitchen—the unlit room adjacent to Red’s couch. Pikachu and Espeon were free to roam the house without need for enclosure, but what could Pikachu possibly need right now? He was sleeping on Red’s bed the last time Red had seen him. 

A bright white light cut through the darkness. “Piiii…”

Oh, for crying out loud. “Nooo no no no no…” Red whispered as he rushed for the fridge, scooping the mischievous little mouse off the kitchen floor and throwing him over Red’s left shoulder. It was an hour past dinnertime, and this little rascal was still hungry…? 

Red shut the fridge and flicked the kitchen light on, gently dropping Pikachu onto the kitchen counter in preparation for a scolding.

What was that about? Red pantomimed with an exaggerated shrug. 

Pikachu simply flashed a smarmy little smile and extended his left hand from behind his back, placing upon the counter a plastic bottle of chilled water.

Red’s shoulders dropped with a deep sigh. Pikachu had secured the bottle at his mother’s request—and this stunt was all a setup to remind Red to drink it. How Pikachu had managed not to drop it in their mutual shuffle, Red had no idea, but at least he had to be grateful for the rodent's efforts.

Red shook his head and reluctantly ruffled the space between Pikachu’s ears, reaching for the bottle and breaking open the seal. “Thank you,” he whispered with a swig. 

“Piii…hiihii.” 

Someone sure was proud of himself.

MSG: i dont mind either way, buuut if you would prefer coming to the coast, then by all means! come see us! and, ty for your compliments on the gym, it was a LOT of work but the pokemon and trainers all seem to love it. another great reason for you to stop on by.

She’s hoping her excitement at the possibility of a rendezvous translates well to Red, as the two had never been too much more than acquaintances before. It wasn’t particularly anyone’s fault, as Jasmine very rarely ventured to Mt. Silver, and as Red himself stated his infrequency of visiting cities like Olivine. Perhaps this will all change soon, an opportunity that overjoys her immensely. Something to look forward to! 

As the light of Amphy’s tail glitters over wave crests, the beacon’s son waddles into the kitchenette sleepily; a light bleat from Junior rouses Jasmine from her stupor, reminding her that the tea is indeed back to a boil.

“T-Thanks, Junior,” sheepishly, she pulls a teacup from the cupboard to the side of the bay window: it’s shaped like the bud of a bluebell, a gift from her cousins who reside on the farms north of Olivine. Delicately, she pours the steeped tea into it, adding a sugar cube as a treat. “I spaced out there for a bit.” The younger Ampharos waves a flipper, none too concerned as its become part of his routine to snap Jasmine from her reverie every now and again. Thunder quiets and the hazy twilight looming above Olivine becomes more still beneath the cloudless sky. The many avenues intersecting below are now dim, streetlights dotting along roads on which relatively few pedestrians occupy. Stirring until the sugar is dissolved, Jasmine goes back to responding:

MSG: i’m positive all my newest partners would adore you. they’re a motley crew at times, but there’s a lot of love between everybody. they get along despite the differences which makes me happy

For a moment, she considers leaving it as is, before ultimately deciding against:

MSG: ive had lots of free time lately, so hmm..... i’d say throw a dart at any time this upcoming week, and i should be good :D i’ll go ahead and fix up the guest lodgings here at the lighthouse for you. we haven’t been getting very many sailors in the port considering the change in seasons, so its been kinda lonely here between just me and my teammates. some company would be super nice! just let me know when’s best for you, and i’ll absolutely make the accommodations :)

Pressing [send] does give her a bit of a rush: it truly has been forever since the Glitter Lighthouse was frequented by guests routinely, making it typically a very isolating place to be when alone. Jasmine settles her Pokégear onto the countertop once more, before sauntering through the lobby area and out onto the balcony. A light, dusky breeze carries Wingull into drafts higher than the naked eye can see, jewel of a moon hanging lowly above the rolling tides. What a gorgeous place to be isolated within, she must admit.