Fandom So Ya Want to be a Master?

[JessieSune]

This statement is met with plenty of approval. Then it happens. The finalists are announced -- Kyle and Charlie will be facing last year's champion.

"You've got stiff competition, mac," says a trainer. "Good luck to you and whatever you'll be using."

You can also spot the trainer who asked you to see him after the contest.

"Don't release me until we're on the stage, alright? I want to make a flashy entrance!" You can hear a slight giggle.

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Nodding at the trainer he gives a "Thanks," before walking out to the stage. Gripping Charlie's pokeball in his hand he telepaths as he gets ready to begin.

"You ready Char? It's about to begin. Don't hold back, alright? I know you will win this," he telepaths to her.

As soon as they announce for the match to begin he throws her ball into the air dramatically and announces "Charlie it's your turn!"

As she's released from the ball he watches as he catches the ball into his hand and she makes her landing. Folding his arms he nods towards her signaling her to do as she wishes.

 

[JessieSune]

If it wasn't for the fact that she is the result of two minds combined, what she does next might be considered impossible.

With a flourish of light she spontaneously appears above the heads of the audience. That's nothing special, until she appears in several other places at the same time. Each Gardevoir simultaneously uses Magical Leaf, then follows it up with a Shadow Ball... only the attack looks like an Eevee diving through the petals. She's not done, however.

All the petals and Gardevoir begin to spin, faster and faster as they each work towards a central point in the auditorium. As they begin to converge upon each other's locations, the Shadow Eevees dash towards them, and upon impact the whole thing shatters into flowers that rain on the audience. In the middle of it all a Leafeon appears which drops onto the stage... and then transforms back into Charlie.

The crowd goes wild.

The judges are stunned.

"How did I do?'

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Once again Kyle knew to expect something spectacular yet is still blown away by the performance of his companions. Giving her a slow clap as she finished he smiled and petted her head, offering her a smile.

"Great job Char. You've made me the proudest trainer ever whether we win or not today," he told her. "Not that there's any possible way you wouldn't get a perfect score for that performance."

Giving her a hug he swings them both around in his arms in a spinning bear hug.

"I love you both so much. You're incredible!"

 

[JessieSune]

Charlie laughs, flushing with excitement and joy at Kyle's high words.

The next few minutes feel like a blur, right up until the judge announces:

"Kyle and his Vaporeon and Gardevoir are the winners!"

The two Pokemon almost squeal with excitement as the confetti falls and their trainer is presented with the ribbon marking the occasion. The crowd cheers and begins to chant your name.

"Looks like we're champions, huh?" Says Charlie. "I bet Team Rocket can't touch us now!"

Out of the corner of your eye you can see the friendly trainer from earlier.

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Raising his hands in the air as the confetti falls and the people cheer Kyle notices the friendly trainer from before out of the corner of his eye. Turning to Charlie he pets her head with a smile.

"I bet! But let's not get contented or complacent just because we won a style competition. We still need to get stronger in battle strength as well. Why don't you two keep posing like conquering heroes while I go talk to this trainer that greeted us before the match? I'll be right back."

Walking over to the friendly trainer Kyle offers a smile and a hand to shake.

"Hello.….I'm sorry I didn't catch your name from before. You okay?"

 

[JessieSune]

The two nod, bowing and smiling to the crowd which continues to cheer.

"Hello!" Says the other trainer, returning the handshake. "You reminded me of another contest competitor and I had placed a bet on you. I'm Miles. It's nice to meet you. I'll cut to the chase. A performance like that indicates astounding talent. I'd like to hire you as a caretaker, or purchase your Pokemon, or both."

He follows this with a hand up. "I don't expect you to decide, and if you say 'No' I'll understand. But I'm prepared to offer good money and lodging if you accept. I have a deep passion for these contests and it would be a great pleasure to work with you."

He nods to the two Pokemon.

"Not going to lie, beauty like that makes folks jealous. Enjoy this celebrity; you've earned it."

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

"Nice to meet you," Kyle interrupts before letting the man continue. "I would never separate from my pokemon so that option is off the table. As for hiring me as a caretaker who would I be taking care of Mr. Miles?"

Folding his arms akimbo Kyle listens intently to the man before him. Perhaps if this guy had such money to blow he could provide some protection for them as well for a bit. It would be nice to not have to run from Team Rocket for a while.

"If you'll entertain me I have a question that I feel needs to be asked. We are complete strangers after all and I am very protective about my pokemon. You have no affiliation with Team Rocket or the Gym Leader Giovanni at all either now or in the past? If your answer is yes to this question you can expect a no immediately."

 

[JessieSune]

"You don't have to use the honorific, my friend," laughs the trainer. "We're only like five years apart! As for your question, well, you'd be mostly caring for and training my prize Delphox, Sandy. She's very sweet, but not competitive by nature. Someone with your drive might help bring out that winning fire, if you will."

At the mention of Team Rocket his face darkens.

"The only interaction I've had with that pack of scoundrels was their recent attempt to steal Sandy from me. Thankfully they sent incompetent clowns, so we easily deterred them."

He sighs. "I raised Sandy from her Fennekin days -- she's imported, you know. Oh but I digress. Do we have a deal?"

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Relaxing back into a friendly smile after the trainer answers his questions Kyle offers a hand to shake.

"I would be happy to help you train Sandy. Sounds like a fun challenge."

Turning to look back towards Charlie and Cynthia he turns back to his new client.

"When would you like us to start?"

 

[JessieSune]

Miles grins. "Wonderful! How about tomorrow, then?"

"I sense our trainer has embarked on a new endeavor -- which of course means we have too!"

"I just like getting attention without it being hostile," laughs Cynthia. "Feels like we could be here all night being applauded!"

It might sound cocky, were the whole audience not still thunderously clapping.

"Here's my address," says Miles, offering Kyle a card. I look forward to meeting you. Show up whenever it's convenient. I'll be at home!"

Charlie chuckles. "Trying something new, friend?"

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Overhearing their telepathic conversation Kyle smirks as he accepts the card from Miles and nods him away before turning to face the two champs.

"I figure if this guy has the disposable income to pay us to train his pokemon for him and since I have the ability to speak to pokemon directly now. It would be a good source of income for when we do continue our journey. I'm not saying that we are low on funds but it's always good to have more. I don't know how long this endeavor will take but I'm hoping you two can help. We'll be attempting to train a Delphox named Sandy. Either of you know anything about Delphox?"

This entire conversation is held telepathically so that Miles doesn't overhear and lose any confidence in their ability to get results. Kyle walks over to Cynthia and Charlie as he is speaking as well to join them in their little winner circle.

"Figured we could celebrate with a nice meal and then make our way over to his house. If he's going to be paying us well I'm sure that either we'll be able to stay nearby or he'll be providing everything for us while we are working for him."

 

[JessieSune]

"That sounds wonderful, Kyle," says Charlie earnestly. I would appreciate food -- I didn't realize it but I've been suppressing my appetite all day and now I'm..." Her stomach rumbles, finishing the statement for her.

"Delphox?" Cynthia looks thoughtful a moment. "Fire...psychic. Yeah, I've met a few. Charlie has too, but if I recall the last one we encountered together was in a casual battle. Maybe, I'm not sure...but yeah, no -- I think we could care for someone else's Pokemon with ease!"

"It's good to hear you feel confident in the economic situation. I daresay between the three of us we could make it worth our employer's time and money."

"Look at us! Champions and breadwinners both!" Cynthia laughs.

After an hour or so the stadium is finally clear and the trio find themselves back on the path to the Pokemon center.

"Such a hectic but wonderful day..." yawns Charlie. "Thank you, Kyle."

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Chuckling as he put an arm around her and smiled down at Cynthia he begins walking with them both towards the local pokemon center. Turning to look down at Cynthia as she explained about their experience with Delphox he listened intently to take in any details she offered.

Upon their arrival he returns both of them to their balls so that they can recuperate when they are turned over to Nurse Joy. Upon receiving them back he releases the both of them so that he would have someone to talk to.

"Alright. Let's head over to the new boss' house so we can get our grub on and figure out our new living situation. Once we get a schedule down and set it should be a pretty sweet gig."

He rustled through his bag as he spoke and walked out of the center, pulling out a bag of poke snacks.

"In the meantime both of you could have a couple of these so that way you're not starving. Don't wanna ruin your appetites just incase this rich guy puts out a smorgasborde."

Handing them each a couple snack pieces he smiles as they eat and walk along side of him.

"I'm just happy I have you all here with me. That includes our friends that are in their balls right now."

 

[JessieSune]

Cynthia nods. "Seems like we've got it kinda made, huh?"

"Indeed," replies Charlie. "Seems like we've fared rather well -- and our new jobs should help solidify our reputations. If I recall, back when I was a researcher I actually studied our employer. He's a casual trainer with a great love for contests -- rather pacifistic by nature, though quick to defend against villains."

"Sounds like our kind of guy."

A few minutes later the house can be seen -- it's a large estate with a good deal of yard space on every side, to say nothing of the imposing area it holds of its own accord.

"It seems we're expected," says Charlie, noting a butler approaching the trio.

"Ah, good day, sir. You must be the new trainer. Right this way."

"He looks like the sort of guy you'd find in a Pokemon murder mystery!" laughs Cynthia, much to Charlie's chagrin.

"Be kind, Cynthia. This gentleman came all this way to greet us -- we ought to be thankful."

The fellow gestures to a golf cart.

"There won't be room for all of us, I'm afraid, so I'll have to ask you to kindly return your companions to their capture capsules."

Cynthia nearly snorts with laughter. Even Charlie has a slight grin on her face, but she nods, waiting for the inevitable call.

"There's a large plate waiting for you as well, so might I suggest we make haste?" adds the Butler.

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Smiling as the butler approaches Kyle nods his head to signify the yes he couldn't get out while being awestruck at the estate they were seeing. He's snapped back to reality when the butler explains that he must return Cynthia and Charlie to their balls for the golf kart ride.

"See you two in a little bit," he responds before returning them to their pokeballs.

Turning back to the butler he gets into the kart and sits patiently waiting to see how far away they were going that they needed a golf kart instead of just walking there.

"If you don't mind me asking how did your employer gain all of this wealth? This estate is marvelous and I can only imagine the utility bills nevermind paying a staff to maintain it. I apologize if I'm being too nosey. Simply curious."

 

[JessieSune]

"My employer," replies the Butler, "Is something of a specialist. Some of his wealth was inherited, but he has increased it exponentially through means of Pokemon breeding and sales. He always does extensive research before making a sale to ensure the safety of the Pokemon he markets, and has raised several contest winners. When he offered to purchase your Gardevoir it was no doubt with that in mind."

As he speaks, the cart continues past a stable where a sizable staff can see seen working with various Pokemon.

"He's very passionate about what he does and employs a good many people. Thus the house size."

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

"Sounds like quite the respectable business man to me," Kyle responds as they're driving past the stable.

He turns to watch the stable as they pass and as he speaks. As soon as they pass it and he can't see what's going on there anymore he turns his head back to the butler.

"So staff size leading to a larger house you are inferring that he houses all of his staff on the estate? That's incredibly generous of him. Not many jobs come with a housing perk."

 

[JessieSune]

"Yes, housing is offered on site. He claims it's more efficient, but I personally believe he just doesn't want to be in a giant house all by himself -- a sentiment that I think completely reasonable. He's smart as a whip, though a tad naive. Nonetheless, his generosity helps power a large part of this city's economy, so a lot of folks have him to thank for their livelihoods, even off the property."

A few moments later the kart pulls up by the front door and Miles can be seen standing ready to greet them.

"Welcome to Mr. Miles' estate," says the Butler.

"Calvin! How many times must I tell you we're on a first name basis?" Miles chuckles. "Please, do come in. I'm eager to show you around. Thank you so much for coming!"

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Listening to the butler Kyle can't help but to smirk at the man.

"You sound more like a father discussing his child than just another employee. I can respect and appreciate a man who earns such fealty from his workers."

He finishes speaking before they pull up to the front door where Miles is waiting to greet them. Smiling and offering his hand as Miles approaches Kyle begins ascending the stairs to walk alongside of the wealthy man.

"Thank you for having us," Kyle replies out of courtesy as he looks around at the mansion with awe. "Honestly I wish I could open my own pokemon business but after raising pokemon and bonding with them I think I would have trouble saying goodbye every time. You seem to have done very well for yourself Mr. Miles."

 

[JessieSune]

"It's my distinct pleasure. I'll admit I do sometimes wish I could just keep all the Pokemon I raise too, but I'd run out of space -- and besides, they all deserve happy homes where they get lots of attention. As I mentioned before, you can drop the honorific. Only Calvin uses it, and I keep telling him not to. How about I show you where you'll be staying? Some folks don't believe in mixing their homes and workplaces but I enjoy it immensely."

Before he can go much further, however, the group finds their way blocked by...Delphox.

"Oh, Sandy! How's my good girl doing?"

The Pokemon responds with an enthusiastic yelp, then eyes the newcomer with a curious tilt of the head.

"This is Kyle. I hired him to help you learn some things. I'm showing him to his place. Want to come along?"

"Oh yes please," she responds, though of course Miles only hears a pleasant squeak.

"Very well. Onwards and upwards!"

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

Smiling at the interruption Kyle is happy to meet his new charge that he'll be tutoring.

"Pleasure to meet you Sandy," Kyle speaks in human to her. "I look forward to working with you and your trainer."

Kneeling as he greets her he offers her his hand to sniff or give her paw to give a little handshake.

When they resume the tour Kyle begins thinking on the minimal info he knows about Delphox and plots on how to approach her training. Figuring he should take it off easy especially in the beginning he looks up in time to see the door that they're all stopping in front of.

"This the room Miles?"

 

[JessieSune]

"Indeed it is. Think it'll suit? You're welcome to ask for any changes, especially if your Pokemon need them."

The room could be more aptly described as a suite, with two beds, a chair, a couch, a television, a bathroom, and a small kitchen. Sunlight streams in through curtained windows while a stereo softly plays violin music.

"I hope you're happy with it," Sandy thinks, more to herself, not realizing Kyle can hear. "If your performance was any sign, from what I'm told, you must be used to only the best."

Miles grins. "If you need anything, you can use the intercom there. Anything you would like replaced or altered here?"

 

[GreatSaiyaman31]

"This looks like it'll do more than fine. Should have plenty of room for all of my pokemon and Sandy here if she decides to visit," he replies and smiles from Miles down to the Delphox.

Looking around the room, pretending to be judging its appearance and contents he turns to Miles after a moment and shakes his head no with a chuckle.

"The suite is beyond expectation Miles. You're talking to a trainer and pokemon that are used to either camping or staying in pokemon centers. This room is a resort compared to either of those options. Thank you," he adds.

Turning back to the room he pulls his pokeballs off of his belt and aims them into the room in vacant spots. Releasing his pokemon he stands in front of them all.

"Now guys this is where we'll be staying for a bit. We're going to become friends with and help train Sandy over there by Mr. Miles. Make certain you're all on your best behavior and do your best while we are here."

 

[JessieSune]

Miles grins. "I'm glad it meets your needs."

Kyle's Pokemon, however, are stunned. "This place is incredible!" Cynthia practically shouts. "I didn't know that a house could be this big!"

"We appear to have encountered quite the generous employer if this is to be our living quarters," adds Charlie. "Even more importantly -- there's security in this place. We face little danger from Team Rocket under this roof unless they try to assault the place with an army!" Her smile is wide, and she almost hugs Miles before holding back at the last second.

The others have similar reactions, and each are interested in Sandy, who is in turn interested in them.

"I'll give you guys time to settle in," says Miles. "When you wish to start, let me know on the intercom. I'm going to take Sandy down for some grooming, alright?" With that, he and his Pokemon take their leave.

Cynthia immediately begins jumping on the bed in glee. "We've hit the big time!" She laughs. Charlie gives Kyle an affectionate nudge. "I think she's excited."