[The world goes hazy. At least the poison had the decency to allow him a moment to protect Jacinthe, he thinks. Vaguely, he's aware of her yell, of the people gathering around, and of the sounds of panic and speech, but it all feels very, very far away. Almost as though it's happening all the way across the manor and not to himself.
Breathing quickly becomes a struggle, and for a little while he focuses on that. Then that focus slips away, and though he's vaguely aware he's being lifted (by whom?) and carried somewhere (where?) he can't really make sense of his surroundings. He can't see clearly. Did he lose his glasses somewhere along the way? He can't muster up the strength to raise his hands to check.
Something washes over him - a wave that feels soothing, comforting. He can't tell what it is, but it's calming... enough so that he could fall asleep here.
(Some part of his mind struggles to remember why he shouldn't fall asleep. There's a perfectly damn good reason why he shouldn't, but he doesn't remember what it is. Is this what it feels like to die? Is he dying? If he is, he's remarkably more calm about it than he thought he'd be. He just wishes he could've seen Scolipede and the others once more...)
Then something truly horrific (even worse than the poisoned champagne) is being forced down his throat and it's a struggle not to gag on it. Ugh, gross... Couldn't just let him sleep in peace, huh...
Slowly - very slowly, though it's sort of hard for him to tell - his breathing evens out into something normal where he's no longer struggling. The dulled look in his eyes begins to fade. It takes even longer for things to start coming back into focus, for the surroundings to start making sense again, for the world to feel like it's stopped spinning. It's going to take a lot of healing from her dear Pokémon and even longer for the antidote to truly start working - all told, it'll take an hour for him to start the recovery process. He's not exactly out of it entirely during it - his eyes are still open, and they will track movement - but he doesn't respond to anything properly or even manage anything verbally in that timeframe.
He won't be properly lucid until he's taken away to the hospital. Your Pokémon may be able to tell that the antidote's helping... or maybe you'll need the paramedics for that. Either way, he is recovering, it's just going to take awhile.]
[Jacinthe waits with bated breath. Sylveon's doing her best to keep track of Corbeau's feelings and heartbeat along with chiming that bell, and Gardevoir is doing everything in her power to keep Corbeau alive. She doesn't dare knock into his head to see if he's got brain function--too risky, even with the antidote, if it even works and isn't a placebo, but it takes time for his breathing to even out, and...
Gardevoir lets Jacinthe know.
Condition stabilizing. The antidote worked.
He's...he's gonna be okay.]
Oh-- [Jacinthe's voice feels so, so very small right now. It's as small and delicate as can be, as if she were much younger and still afforded the mercy of crying. But she doesn't care right now.] Oh, I'm so...I'm so relieved...
[Jacinthe is surprisingly gentle in the action, but she ends up saying fuck it to every bit of decorum and pulling Corbeau into a hug as she cries into his suit. He's alive. He's going to be okay, and she knows it with relative certainty now. The paramedics should be arriving any moment now, and maybe she won't have to wait weeks to see him in the hospital. Maybe she'll be able to see him again, maybe she can finally apologize for overstepping, and maybe, just maybe, she's actually managed to help someone for once in her miserable life.
Maybe this time, she's not the damsel in distress or the princess in the tower, but the hero who saves the knight meant to save her.
She cries for a solid few minutes against him--the fact that he can't register anything is nothing short of a boon, but it's when Jacinthe pokes her head up, eyes reddened from crying and patting that stupid, stupid hair of his that she hears a sharp noise, the slam of a door, and--
There's a man, a younger looking man in fancy attire. There's a bottle in his hand with a far too familiar label, and Jacinthe...
Jacinthe sees red.]
You. [Wait, Jacinthe, please don't! Gardevoir tries to reason, though she watches her lady let go of Corbeau and set him down while the man turns to her and starts to run.] You two, stay here and protect Corbeau! AND YOU, GET BACK HERE AND PAY FOR WHAT YOU DID TO HIM!
[The rest of her Poke Balls fall off of her dress when she runs after the man in question, him having already gotten one hell of a head start on her. But he runs, and she runs too like a persistence predator in heels with no regard for anything other than ensuring retribution on the man who hurt what's hers.
(Corbeau will likely come to at the hospital with those two Pokemon around him; Gardevoir and Sylveon both refused to leave until they were certain he was okay. It's Gardevoir that likely narcs on Jacinthe, for the fact that she fled--not even bringing a single Pokemon with her, and that she was ordered to stay behind and keep him stable.
Not even she knows where her trainer is, and she hates it. But for now...they're in his care.)]
[It takes almost two whole days before any news of Jacinthe surfaces. Though visibly keeping their composure, Themida and Rusco have absolutely gone spare over Jacinthe's disappearance; for Themida, it's mostly appearances. But for Rusco, who assisted his daughter even a little, he's genuinely worried about what's happened here. But they both put on the appearance of perfectly composed adults worried about their daughter, and a search team is sent out to find them.
Jacinthe herself keeps running. Even after one of her heels breaks, she keeps running--taking the other one off entirely to wield as a weapon for when she finds the bastard responsible. She'll make him pay. If he runs with a group, she'll make them all pay for what they did, for the friends she cares for, for the man who protected her, the girl who did too, and for anyone else these bastards hurt. She would be merciless, she'd go without sleep or eating, and she'd...
She'd end up finding something unexpected in a dead-end. At first she'd almost been despondent that she lost the man, fully expecting that this would be the end and that she wouldn't even have someone to interrogate to make up for this. But she ends up finding that stupid old haunted mansion that closed down years ago, off of Route 14 in that horrible bog; at first she goes into the abandoned building thinking that was where he was hiding, but it seemed to have been cleared out. Lived in, of course, but cleared almost entirely out.
Almost, being the operative word. It's in the lower reaches of that house that she finds Philippe--injured, worse for wear, but alive. She looks like an absolute mess, ripped up tights and hair all over the place and that dress of hers is positively ruined beyond any sort of reasonable repair--and that alone might have been the only reason Philippe didn't go on the attack. He manages to listen to her, even, as she recounts what he's missed, and...
They both look around, briefly, for Philippe's Pokemon; all of them are accounted for, and that's about when she realizes she doesn't even have a Pokemon with her at all. She ran all the way here without one, a feat that she could swear has made Philippe--angry? Shocked? She isn't sure, but he tells her that they'll talk more once they're back in the city. Back in Lumiose, back home.
Word spreads like wildfire, to say the least; she isn't reunited with Corbeau and her Pokemon immediately, but she's taken in for questioning by Emma and the Police, giving her statement and proceeding to fall asleep afterward, exhausted from the feats she managed to pull off. She's never been so drained in her life, but...
She's alive. And that's what matters most.
It's once she finally wakes that she receives a call from Philippe; there's nothing in his tone at all, or at the very least, it's barely, barely restrained, but she's ordered to come to the Rust Syndicate headquarters immediately. That...everything's been packed for her, and she just needs to bring herself down.
...
She's going to be paying for this, isn't she...
Well. She manages to get there, though she doesn't have a change of clothes to make herself presentable; her hair's still a mess, her outfit's a mess, but she manages to get to the elevator and go on up.
[Corbeau spends the next two days floating in and out of consciousness. He tries to stay awake as often as possible, but it's fighting a losing battle. His vitals remain steady even as he drifts, but it's probably not easy on Gardevoir and Sylveon. He's only really able to process what they're able to tell him after the first day, and while he asks Gardevoir to try to find Jacinthe and Teleport to her, it's pretty obvious that the Pokémon isn't able to do that. Lumiose is already a huge city, and there's no telling if she's moved even beyond that in her pursuit of the guy who did this.
What was she thinking? His whole job was to protect her, and then she runs off, even without her Pokémon, after the guy who clearly wants her dead? It's a good thing he's still recovering, because it means he gets to spend more time asleep and less time being mad about it.
Realistically, Corbeau probably should have remained in the hospital for the better part of the week, to ensure that he's fully recovered. Practically, he doesn't have time for that shit, and when Philippe shows up in his damn hospital room unannounced (and he's not even going to question how he got past the nurses to get in) Corbeau knows that waiting around wasting time on something as pointless as "recovering" is not happening.
(Gardevoir and Sylveon absolutely do fuss at the both of them - they don't know Philippe, but they can acknowledge that both Corbeau and Philippe need to take a damn break and recover, though the Pokémon go unheeded.)
The Rust Syndicate is - unsurprisingly - in an absolute frenzy when the leaders return. Half of them are talking about getting revenge and breaking kneecaps to get information, and the other half are busy panicking about who the hell's going to look after Lumiose with both of them gone. It takes quite a bit to calm everyone down and make sure everything's in order. It's only been two days and yet it feels like a damn lifetime. Arceus, he wishes he could just go back to bed.
But there are two Pokémon here that don't belong to him, and one missing woman he needs to see again.
Philippe uses Corbeau's phone to get in contact with Jacinthe, since his own was destroyed in the confrontation. The exact details of that are still something they need to discuss, but this is the most important thing. Philippe's agreed to go see a doctor for his injuries after things with the Rust Syndicate are handled and "as soon as you're willing to take a break" so this has to come first.
Jacinthe is allowed to walk freely through the halls of the Rust Syndicate, though the grunts all end up staring at her, as disheveled as she is. They'll show her the way to Corbeau's office if she needs a reminder - if not, she can take the elevator up on her own.
Corbeau sits at his desk, hands folded in front of him. His posture is straight, tight, and tense and though he looks a little worse for the wear (pale, tired despite all that resting) he's doing best of the three of them. Philippe's suit is still torn, though he's at least been properly bandaged by now. As always, he remains at Corbeau's side, watching silently. Gardevoir and Sylveon are of course unharmed and doing just fine, and they'll surely be incredibly happy to see their trainer, even if she looks like she's been through hell and back.
There are quite a few things Corbeau should say to her. He should thank her for taking care of him, for the antidote, for leaving her beloved Pokémon to look after him. He should thank her for finding Philippe and helping him back home. He should be glad that she's fine, that she's still alive and she's been safely returned to them. There are so many things he should say, but after a long, oppressive moment of silence, what he decides on is...]
[It takes her a bit to notice, that the Rust Syndicate's servants are also disheveled as hell. She's not surprised; she can't imagine that they've been doing well with both Philippe and Corbeau gone, but they're back now. With any luck, Corbeau should still be in the hospital, and she doesn't doubt that Philippe is going to have some words for her, but they're okay. They're okay, and that's what matters.
Jacinthe dares to look relieved for a moment, when she sees them both; Corbeau certainly looks worse for wear, yes, but he's alive and she dares breathe a sigh of relief. Philippe's back where he belongs, Gardevoir's never looked so angry in her life and Sylveon's trying not to bound toward her trainer immediately and--
...
And then Corbeau opens up his mouth and Jacinthe jumps, startling, and Sylveon wastes no more time practically tacking her trainer to the ground. At least in part to ensure she doesn't flee from a well deserved yelling, but she missed her, she missed her--]
...I was thinking about how to get even with the craven scoundrel that managed to harm you both so, more than anything. I saw him, I saw--
[She probably shouldn't be saying that right now, but she doesn't even care that she's about to get scolded horribly for this. He's alive. And she's probably saying every incorrect thing in the world, but her relief is palpable, even if she's wincing a bit.]
[There goes Sylveon, unsurprisingly, please give your trainer love but also keep her here. She'd better not go running off again!!!]
You... You—
[He rises suddenly - too suddenly, given the way he wobbles and Philippe starts forward before Corbeau holds out a hand to stop him.]
Surely you can see how running after a man who tried to kill you without your Pokémon was a horrible idea! You're damn lucky things just so happened to work out as they did and you weren't attacked or worse! Jacinthe, you have got to take better care of yourself, especially without anyone else to look out for you!
[...ugh nope, okay, maybe that's a little too much. Corbeau flops back into the chair with a frustrated sigh, carefully taking off his glasses and setting them on the desk as he rubs at his temples like he's fighting off a migraine.]
Thank you for finding Philippe and saving my life. I cannot overstate how important both of those are to me, but Jacinthe, you must be more careful.
[Given how tightly Sylveon's feelers are wrapped around her trainer, don't worry, she's not even going to think about running again. But Jacinthe winces a bit, halfway tempted to get up and help him and...]
Corbeau, please, you need to be careful-!
[Like you're one to talk, you idiot woman!!! Gardevoir thankfully is keeping her yelling solely focused to Jacinthe, who winces a bit at the brain blast in kind--still, Gardevoir is going to give Corbeau a small Heal Pulse, just to be sure. Please don't throw your own self out yelling at this dumbass...
Still, she...Jacinthe doesn't feel particularly sorry for seeing red, if she's being honest, because frankly anyone trying to hurt Corbeau deserves the worst. But he's just doing his job. The job that she paid him for, that she keeps making harder and harder on him, and who's lines she wants to blur. But she doesn't, she...]
...I did not mean to leave without all of them; allow me to assure you of that much, first. When I ran, all I could see was red, and it made me reckless. I will acknowledge that.
But I had no intention of letting the bastard who forced me to watch once again as someone took the fall for me just slip away.
[In truth, she doesn't know what to say. She could easily lie and tell him that she could try to take better care of herself, but Jacinthe knows her impulses; she can't just back down. She couldn't and wouldn't have, but...
Seeing Corbeau like this, it does pain her deeply. Seeing her Pokemon so despondent like this, even if Gardevoir hides it well, it pains her too. She's not entirely sure what this pain is if she's being honest, but she's...]
...I don't have any intention of pulling another stunt like that, my dear friend.
[Not unless she doesn't have a choice. Not unless he's gone, and he can't even judge her anymore. He only cares because it's her money, and part of her wants to say that outright to keep her walls up, but...
She doesn't apologize. She knows she probably should, but Jacinthe isn't even slightly sorry. She'd do it again if she had to.]
[It's partially to Jacinthe's words, partially to Philippe's hovering, and partially to Gardevoir's Heal Pulse. He is admittedly feeling a little light-headed, but he'll deal. He'll deal, because this is way more important than needing to rest.
Jacinthe doesn't apologize. Sure, she's addressed the most important part in all of this - that leaving her Pokémon behind wasn't intentional (though worrying that she can lose control that much when she's furious) and that she won't do it again. Though if she's that reckless to begin with, will she even remember that if there is another incident like this?
Ugh. It's unlikely there will be one. It's fine to let it go for now.]
I understand your anger and desire to make sure he was caught. But you can't go putting yourself in danger like that again.
[Even your parents were worried is something he nearly says before he stops himself. He's not sure they were truly worried, or if it was just for show. Besides, bringing them up now seems like a dreadful idea. He isn't going to tell Philippe anything about what he witnessed either, so best to leave that unspoken.]
I'm glad you're safe. But from now on, it'd be best for you to stay here with us. I can only assume that someone in the SBC is working with the one responsible for this, which puts you in danger if you remain there. We'll accompany you back to gather your things, and then you'll remain with us.
[Philippe gives him a look and it takes all of his willpower not to groan as he puts his glasses back on.]
...Philippe will accompany you. I trust that's acceptable for you both?
[Jacinthe quiets a bit when Corbeau remains his stubborn, stubborn self; her look even sours just a bit that he's still his own reckless self, but she's outnumbered right now. All she's going to do is cause Corbeau unneeded stress, and he...
He nearly died for her. That, and that alone gets her to shut up and nod her head. She's...actually a little surprised that she's being kept here now, but as she looks to Philippe, to Gardevoir, to Sylveon, Jacinthe knows that might be for the best. To think that someone at the SBC would have it out for her this badly...]
Yes, it is. I will ensure that everything is promptly gathered, with his help. And I will ensure you are all well compensated, for the inconvenience.
[...]
...Thank you, for keeping me safe.
[She's still fairly exhausted, but she needs him to know that before she leaves. Before they go back and get those things that are hers, before she has to find a way to fit it all into whatever room she gets in the Rust Syndicate.
Jacinthe needs Corbeau to at least know that his sacrifice wasn't in vain, even if it likely falls on mostly deaf ears by now.]
[Don't what? Don't pay them? He's going to have to pay for his medical bills, and that money will still be better used with the Rust Syndicate than in the coffers of a rich family. But he still doesn't like the idea of being paid for being inconvenienced. It just doesn't sit right. Being paid to do a job is perfectly fine - and he did do his job. If she'd worded it as renewing the contract, he wouldn't have had a problem with being paid more. But something about that specific wording just pisses him off and now is not the time to be arguing pointless semantics.
Philippe's giving him a questioning look and Corbeau shakes his head as if to dismiss it. Whatever. That's not the important thing.]
Of course. I'm not letting anything happen to you. You'll be safe here.
[It's extremely unlikely any of his own are after her, after all. Each member of the Rust Syndicate is personally vetted by either Philippe or Corbeau himself. They're all trustworthy. So everything should be fine from here on.]
If you need anything, feel free to ask any of our members. They're aware you'll be staying here and will help out as they can. Philippe and I will likewise be around; you're free to visit me here whenever you'd like.
[But for now he nods to Philippe and his right hand moves to accompany Jacinthe out - may as well let her get started on gathering her things since she'll likely need a bit...]
[Jacinthe merely bows her head as she and Philippe take their leave; she's...definitely got a lot to gather, though most of it is thankfully pretty easy to leave behind. Her phonograph, records, and her barrels are the first priority; second comes enough clothing to last her, to make her look presentable at the base and to make sure that she has enough she can wear. After that, it's...pretty much just essentials. The servants belong to the family, after all; her father is stepping back in to take the reins of the SBC while she's gone, from what she's hearing. Though there's talk of someone else looking to take the inconvenience...
Philippe doesn't let her dawdle for too long, even if he seems to be keeping his ear low to the ground as well. No need to let Jacinthe get worked up when it's damn clear that she's reckless enough to act on her impulses to such a degree.
(There's a few other things Gardevoir grabs, in her lady's stead; make-up. Pictures of her and Lebanne. The chaise from her boudoir, even if it's likely just going to be her bed. It's practically been so for years, now.)
But Jacinthe and Philippe are back after quite a few hours, at least, and she and Gardevoir take the primary bulk of getting everything unpacked into their new room. It's not much smaller than the boudoir in the first place; she'd always felt those private quarters to be more like a home than her actual bedroom designed by her parents, and in a way, it's...nice, to have a room that feels like it's actually hers, now.
Of course, there comes the awkward realization that she...really can't keep avoiding Corbeau like she had before, after this. Sure, she'd talked to him with the mask on, but she'd gotten so upset at being shut out. She's still really not over it, if she's going to be honest, and she's not entirely sure why she can't just apologize. Or do something.
But, well...Philippe has confiscated her barrels (he didn't tell her why. part of her wonders if corbeau's worried she's going to fall into it more. part of her just thinks this is the inconvenience payment they want to go with, and you know what, sure. that's the one she's hoping for, at least), and with everything set up properly now, she's not entirely sure what to do. Part of her wants to wait for him to come to her, part of her wants to keep listening to her records in peace without the worry of her mother barging in. He'll likely hear them throughout the next few hours, at least, as she settles in.
...But she elects to visit Corbeau in the evening, because she can't actually stay silent for too long.]
[While they're busy moving her things, Corbeau naps. He kind of hates that he actually does rest, but he's so damn tired so what else is he going to do? He's up by the time they return, and then he's the one shooing Philippe off to go visit the damn doctor and make sure he's recovering alright. Things have settled for the evening, and he's back in his office. Scolipede is out of his Pokéball, though he's lounging on the sofas taking a nap and only looks up when Jacinthe enters.
Corbeau's still working his way through paperwork, but this is a much better use of his time. Besides, Philippe will probably be annoyed with him if he spends all of his time awake working.]
Now's fine, yeah. Make yourself at home. Scolipede will move if you want to sit over on the couches.
There's no need for that, come now. He's so delightfully comfortable!
[Jacinthe's going to take a...well she's actually going to sit on the floor like some kind of heathen for the moment, right by the couch where Scolipede lays down. Do you want pets? You about to get so many pets--]
But I would like it if you could join us here. [...] I...really am glad to see that you seem to be recovering okay, all things considered.
[It's so true, he is, but he can lounge on the couch whenever he wants!! Corbeau sighs, though it sounds playfully exasperated rather than annoyed, and he gets up to come on over, taking the couch across from Scolipede. He wouldn't have a problem sitting on the floor normally, but he doesn't trust himself to be able to get back up in his current condition...]
I am. Rest assured that Philippe will force me to take it easy occasionally, regardless of if I want to or not.
[It's wry, though. He can acknowledge his own faults!!]
[She is going to spoil this centipede horse SO DAMN MUCH.]
Good! I would most hate to have to worry about you more than I already do. I truly am glad that you have someone to help share the load with now, though I do hope that he manages to rest as well! He's certainly quite a hardy man, though, I will give credit where it is due.
[Still, she smiles up at Corbeau from where she's sitting, just. Spoiling the big guy. Who's a good little shitwrecker--]
I do hope you will let me know if there is anything I can do to assist as well, my friend. Ward of yours I may be, I would rather not sit idle.
[Scolipede is absolutely rolling around like a cat. He is on his back now, wiggling his feet in the air. Corbeau rolls his eyes.]
Don't worry, I'll make sure he takes a break too. Wouldn't do to have him taken out of commission again.
[And it goes without saying that he's damn relieved to have Philippe back.]
Hah, fair enough. Consider yourself a guest, though. We aren't going to leave you idle, but we're not going to put you to work for the Rust Syndicate either.
Good! [Jacinthe looks over to him when he mentions Rust Syndicate work, and she does find herself chuckling just a bit.] And here I was hoping to get fitted for a uniform to fit in with the rest...almost a shame, that. But I do thank you. I admit, I've never truly done much work myself, but...
As a guest, it is always proper and polite to assist the host, if one can.
[...Still, she can't resist just making the most heart eyes expression at this big old bug, oh--]
You never told me your partner was so precious though, Corbeau! Oh! I only have a little experience with bug types myself, but this handsome man right here is just melting my heart into a puddle!
Yeah, yeah, let me know when you want to officially become a member.
[He waves it off airily before resting his elbow on the armrest and his chin on his hand, watching Jacinthe and Scolipede. The gushing gets a scoff from him.]
He knows he's supposed to look intimidating most of the time, but this time of night? That couch is his and someone better be lavishing attention on him. Absolutely spoiled rotten.
I'll submit my paperwork promptly when the time comes, don't you worry!
[Joking aside, Jacinthe listens and can't help but laugh a little when Corbeau talks about his absolutely spoiled partner.]
And he absolutely deserves it, the precious thing! Though, I imagine that he must get quite a bit of that attention from you, hm~? Fierce in battle so he can be so fiercely loved in kind!
[Jacinthe sighs, practically delighted.]
And here I thought Beedrill was the most precious bug type there was, but I do believe they have competition now!
[Anything for her spoiled baby!!! Okay technically Corbeau's but she is now his godmama, okay, she is absolutely gonna pet his back--]
I've no doubt about that! But it is good to hear that you have some in training; they are quite steadfast friends, when one raises them well. I've never liked the simply awful reputation that most seem to give them; one must simply adjust their approach in order to appreciate them, non?
My parent's villa used to have them, before Mother and her Spinarak obsession took over the garden. I used to play with them all the time! The Beedrill themselves were quite wary at first, but I researched how to befriend them and each year, I would watch as their new Weedle came into the world, evolving over time into just the sweetest darlings. Truth be told, I regret not pushing harder to have one as my first partner...
If they happen to be amendable to my company...would you show me them, sometime? They barely come around the garden we keep here, and the wild ones in town have a tendency to flee from me. I would very much love to see them again.
It's no wonder they end up so aggressive, considering how some people can be around them.
[can "bee" around them hahahaha—]
Sure thing. We do a lot of training together - especially with Steel- and Poison-types - to ensure everyone's doing a good job of raising their partners. You're welcome to join us. Having some Fairy-types that'll pose a real threat ought to be good for some of our cockier younger members.
[Jacinthe gets to battle and see cute Poison-types, win/win!!]
Hmm, I suppose that is true; most people simply do not know when to buzz off, hm?
[Jacinthe couldn't resist--she titters a bit into her hand, but at the idea of joining them on the battlefield, her eyes practically sparkle.]
Oh, I would love nothing more! The opportunity to show them that mere type advantage cannot be enough to sway the battle in your favor...I would be most honored to show them whatfor, indeed! It would be an absolute delight. Do let me know when you do so, I will gladly bring them down!
[As for the question...Jacinthe pauses at that, going a little quiet as she just focuses on petting Scolipede for a little while, a little softer this time.]
They did, yes. Clefable was my first because they wanted me to specialize in a specific type, but over time, they kept giving me Pokemon to add to my team in order to strengthen it. It was sort of like homework, for me; to learn to adapt to my new partners and learn how to make them shine in battle. I love them all dearly, of course.
[Corbeau rolls his eyes, the laugh entirely devoid of humor but the smirk gives it away. Puns.......
Anyway, he nods at the first part, but the second part is what has his interest. It isn't really a surprise that her parents chose her Pokémon and even the type she'd train, but that feels... artificial, in a way. Her bond is clearly strong with Sylveon and Gardevoir regardless of if they were of her parents' choosing or not, so ultimately what matters is what she makes of the Pokémon partners she was given, but still...]
Of course. I can see the appeal behind studying to do better with one type above all others; it is what I ended up doing, after all.
[Well, mostly. Gyarados and Barbaracle are outliers and should be counted.]
[Jacinthe just kind of keeps idly petting Scolipede, barely registering Corbeau's words for a moment as her smile softens, though her look goes a little forlorn. She loves each and every one of her darling partners, of course; they were chosen and they were chosen with care, and Jacinthe can't really love anything but they're dear friends of hers. Partners, Pokemon who would support her through thick and thin. She doesn't regret knowing them at all, but...
Some part of her wonders how things would've gone, if she had a choice.]
Mmm. It's quite an undertaking, to love one type above all else. You must account for it's weaknesses and make up for it with it's strengths; I've heard it said that Pokemon can truly change one over time, to adapt their needs. Perhaps that is a love above all others, oui?
[...]
When this irrational foe of ours is defeated, I may have one more job for you. I...want to catch a Pokemon of my own someday; I do hope I can count on your support, when that time comes.
But...you have made me so very curious. How did you and your darling partner meet? Why, he's so babied I'd assume you raised him from an egg!
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sranks2025-10-22 06:33 pm
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Breathing quickly becomes a struggle, and for a little while he focuses on that. Then that focus slips away, and though he's vaguely aware he's being lifted (by whom?) and carried somewhere (where?) he can't really make sense of his surroundings. He can't see clearly. Did he lose his glasses somewhere along the way? He can't muster up the strength to raise his hands to check.
Something washes over him - a wave that feels soothing, comforting. He can't tell what it is, but it's calming... enough so that he could fall asleep here.
(Some part of his mind struggles to remember why he shouldn't fall asleep. There's a perfectly damn good reason why he shouldn't, but he doesn't remember what it is. Is this what it feels like to die? Is he dying? If he is, he's remarkably more calm about it than he thought he'd be. He just wishes he could've seen Scolipede and the others once more...)
Then something truly horrific (even worse than the poisoned champagne) is being forced down his throat and it's a struggle not to gag on it. Ugh, gross... Couldn't just let him sleep in peace, huh...
Slowly - very slowly, though it's sort of hard for him to tell - his breathing evens out into something normal where he's no longer struggling. The dulled look in his eyes begins to fade. It takes even longer for things to start coming back into focus, for the surroundings to start making sense again, for the world to feel like it's stopped spinning. It's going to take a lot of healing from her dear Pokémon and even longer for the antidote to truly start working - all told, it'll take an hour for him to start the recovery process. He's not exactly out of it entirely during it - his eyes are still open, and they will track movement - but he doesn't respond to anything properly or even manage anything verbally in that timeframe.
He won't be properly lucid until he's taken away to the hospital. Your Pokémon may be able to tell that the antidote's helping... or maybe you'll need the paramedics for that. Either way, he is recovering, it's just going to take awhile.]
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Gardevoir lets Jacinthe know.
Condition stabilizing. The antidote worked.
He's...he's gonna be okay.]
Oh-- [Jacinthe's voice feels so, so very small right now. It's as small and delicate as can be, as if she were much younger and still afforded the mercy of crying. But she doesn't care right now.] Oh, I'm so...I'm so relieved...
[Jacinthe is surprisingly gentle in the action, but she ends up saying fuck it to every bit of decorum and pulling Corbeau into a hug as she cries into his suit. He's alive. He's going to be okay, and she knows it with relative certainty now. The paramedics should be arriving any moment now, and maybe she won't have to wait weeks to see him in the hospital. Maybe she'll be able to see him again, maybe she can finally apologize for overstepping, and maybe, just maybe, she's actually managed to help someone for once in her miserable life.
Maybe this time, she's not the damsel in distress or the princess in the tower, but the hero who saves the knight meant to save her.
She cries for a solid few minutes against him--the fact that he can't register anything is nothing short of a boon, but it's when Jacinthe pokes her head up, eyes reddened from crying and patting that stupid, stupid hair of his that she hears a sharp noise, the slam of a door, and--
There's a man, a younger looking man in fancy attire. There's a bottle in his hand with a far too familiar label, and Jacinthe...
Jacinthe sees red.]
You. [Wait, Jacinthe, please don't! Gardevoir tries to reason, though she watches her lady let go of Corbeau and set him down while the man turns to her and starts to run.] You two, stay here and protect Corbeau! AND YOU, GET BACK HERE AND PAY FOR WHAT YOU DID TO HIM!
[The rest of her Poke Balls fall off of her dress when she runs after the man in question, him having already gotten one hell of a head start on her. But he runs, and she runs too like a persistence predator in heels with no regard for anything other than ensuring retribution on the man who hurt what's hers.
(Corbeau will likely come to at the hospital with those two Pokemon around him; Gardevoir and Sylveon both refused to leave until they were certain he was okay. It's Gardevoir that likely narcs on Jacinthe, for the fact that she fled--not even bringing a single Pokemon with her, and that she was ordered to stay behind and keep him stable.
Not even she knows where her trainer is, and she hates it. But for now...they're in his care.)]
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Jacinthe herself keeps running. Even after one of her heels breaks, she keeps running--taking the other one off entirely to wield as a weapon for when she finds the bastard responsible. She'll make him pay. If he runs with a group, she'll make them all pay for what they did, for the friends she cares for, for the man who protected her, the girl who did too, and for anyone else these bastards hurt. She would be merciless, she'd go without sleep or eating, and she'd...
She'd end up finding something unexpected in a dead-end. At first she'd almost been despondent that she lost the man, fully expecting that this would be the end and that she wouldn't even have someone to interrogate to make up for this. But she ends up finding that stupid old haunted mansion that closed down years ago, off of Route 14 in that horrible bog; at first she goes into the abandoned building thinking that was where he was hiding, but it seemed to have been cleared out. Lived in, of course, but cleared almost entirely out.
Almost, being the operative word. It's in the lower reaches of that house that she finds Philippe--injured, worse for wear, but alive. She looks like an absolute mess, ripped up tights and hair all over the place and that dress of hers is positively ruined beyond any sort of reasonable repair--and that alone might have been the only reason Philippe didn't go on the attack. He manages to listen to her, even, as she recounts what he's missed, and...
They both look around, briefly, for Philippe's Pokemon; all of them are accounted for, and that's about when she realizes she doesn't even have a Pokemon with her at all. She ran all the way here without one, a feat that she could swear has made Philippe--angry? Shocked? She isn't sure, but he tells her that they'll talk more once they're back in the city. Back in Lumiose, back home.
Word spreads like wildfire, to say the least; she isn't reunited with Corbeau and her Pokemon immediately, but she's taken in for questioning by Emma and the Police, giving her statement and proceeding to fall asleep afterward, exhausted from the feats she managed to pull off. She's never been so drained in her life, but...
She's alive. And that's what matters most.
It's once she finally wakes that she receives a call from Philippe; there's nothing in his tone at all, or at the very least, it's barely, barely restrained, but she's ordered to come to the Rust Syndicate headquarters immediately. That...everything's been packed for her, and she just needs to bring herself down.
...
She's going to be paying for this, isn't she...
Well. She manages to get there, though she doesn't have a change of clothes to make herself presentable; her hair's still a mess, her outfit's a mess, but she manages to get to the elevator and go on up.
Time to face the music, she supposes.]
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What was she thinking? His whole job was to protect her, and then she runs off, even without her Pokémon, after the guy who clearly wants her dead? It's a good thing he's still recovering, because it means he gets to spend more time asleep and less time being mad about it.
Realistically, Corbeau probably should have remained in the hospital for the better part of the week, to ensure that he's fully recovered. Practically, he doesn't have time for that shit, and when Philippe shows up in his damn hospital room unannounced (and he's not even going to question how he got past the nurses to get in) Corbeau knows that waiting around wasting time on something as pointless as "recovering" is not happening.
(Gardevoir and Sylveon absolutely do fuss at the both of them - they don't know Philippe, but they can acknowledge that both Corbeau and Philippe need to take a damn break and recover, though the Pokémon go unheeded.)
The Rust Syndicate is - unsurprisingly - in an absolute frenzy when the leaders return. Half of them are talking about getting revenge and breaking kneecaps to get information, and the other half are busy panicking about who the hell's going to look after Lumiose with both of them gone. It takes quite a bit to calm everyone down and make sure everything's in order. It's only been two days and yet it feels like a damn lifetime. Arceus, he wishes he could just go back to bed.
But there are two Pokémon here that don't belong to him, and one missing woman he needs to see again.
Philippe uses Corbeau's phone to get in contact with Jacinthe, since his own was destroyed in the confrontation. The exact details of that are still something they need to discuss, but this is the most important thing. Philippe's agreed to go see a doctor for his injuries after things with the Rust Syndicate are handled and "as soon as you're willing to take a break" so this has to come first.
Jacinthe is allowed to walk freely through the halls of the Rust Syndicate, though the grunts all end up staring at her, as disheveled as she is. They'll show her the way to Corbeau's office if she needs a reminder - if not, she can take the elevator up on her own.
Corbeau sits at his desk, hands folded in front of him. His posture is straight, tight, and tense and though he looks a little worse for the wear (pale, tired despite all that resting) he's doing best of the three of them. Philippe's suit is still torn, though he's at least been properly bandaged by now. As always, he remains at Corbeau's side, watching silently. Gardevoir and Sylveon are of course unharmed and doing just fine, and they'll surely be incredibly happy to see their trainer, even if she looks like she's been through hell and back.
There are quite a few things Corbeau should say to her. He should thank her for taking care of him, for the antidote, for leaving her beloved Pokémon to look after him. He should thank her for finding Philippe and helping him back home. He should be glad that she's fine, that she's still alive and she's been safely returned to them. There are so many things he should say, but after a long, oppressive moment of silence, what he decides on is...]
What in Arceus's name were you thinking!?
[...ah. yeah, that.]
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Jacinthe dares to look relieved for a moment, when she sees them both; Corbeau certainly looks worse for wear, yes, but he's alive and she dares breathe a sigh of relief. Philippe's back where he belongs, Gardevoir's never looked so angry in her life and Sylveon's trying not to bound toward her trainer immediately and--
...
And then Corbeau opens up his mouth and Jacinthe jumps, startling, and Sylveon wastes no more time practically tacking her trainer to the ground. At least in part to ensure she doesn't flee from a well deserved yelling, but she missed her, she missed her--]
...I was thinking about how to get even with the craven scoundrel that managed to harm you both so, more than anything. I saw him, I saw--
[She probably shouldn't be saying that right now, but she doesn't even care that she's about to get scolded horribly for this. He's alive. And she's probably saying every incorrect thing in the world, but her relief is palpable, even if she's wincing a bit.]
I'm just glad you're alive. Both of you!
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You... You—
[He rises suddenly - too suddenly, given the way he wobbles and Philippe starts forward before Corbeau holds out a hand to stop him.]
Surely you can see how running after a man who tried to kill you without your Pokémon was a horrible idea! You're damn lucky things just so happened to work out as they did and you weren't attacked or worse! Jacinthe, you have got to take better care of yourself, especially without anyone else to look out for you!
[...ugh nope, okay, maybe that's a little too much. Corbeau flops back into the chair with a frustrated sigh, carefully taking off his glasses and setting them on the desk as he rubs at his temples like he's fighting off a migraine.]
Thank you for finding Philippe and saving my life. I cannot overstate how important both of those are to me, but Jacinthe, you must be more careful.
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Corbeau, please, you need to be careful-!
[Like you're one to talk, you idiot woman!!! Gardevoir thankfully is keeping her yelling solely focused to Jacinthe, who winces a bit at the brain blast in kind--still, Gardevoir is going to give Corbeau a small Heal Pulse, just to be sure. Please don't throw your own self out yelling at this dumbass...
Still, she...Jacinthe doesn't feel particularly sorry for seeing red, if she's being honest, because frankly anyone trying to hurt Corbeau deserves the worst. But he's just doing his job. The job that she paid him for, that she keeps making harder and harder on him, and who's lines she wants to blur. But she doesn't, she...]
...I did not mean to leave without all of them; allow me to assure you of that much, first. When I ran, all I could see was red, and it made me reckless. I will acknowledge that.
But I had no intention of letting the bastard who forced me to watch once again as someone took the fall for me just slip away.
[In truth, she doesn't know what to say. She could easily lie and tell him that she could try to take better care of herself, but Jacinthe knows her impulses; she can't just back down. She couldn't and wouldn't have, but...
Seeing Corbeau like this, it does pain her deeply. Seeing her Pokemon so despondent like this, even if Gardevoir hides it well, it pains her too. She's not entirely sure what this pain is if she's being honest, but she's...]
...I don't have any intention of pulling another stunt like that, my dear friend.
[Not unless she doesn't have a choice. Not unless he's gone, and he can't even judge her anymore. He only cares because it's her money, and part of her wants to say that outright to keep her walls up, but...
She doesn't apologize. She knows she probably should, but Jacinthe isn't even slightly sorry. She'd do it again if she had to.]
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[It's partially to Jacinthe's words, partially to Philippe's hovering, and partially to Gardevoir's Heal Pulse. He is admittedly feeling a little light-headed, but he'll deal. He'll deal, because this is way more important than needing to rest.
Jacinthe doesn't apologize. Sure, she's addressed the most important part in all of this - that leaving her Pokémon behind wasn't intentional (though worrying that she can lose control that much when she's furious) and that she won't do it again. Though if she's that reckless to begin with, will she even remember that if there is another incident like this?
Ugh. It's unlikely there will be one. It's fine to let it go for now.]
I understand your anger and desire to make sure he was caught. But you can't go putting yourself in danger like that again.
[Even your parents were worried is something he nearly says before he stops himself. He's not sure they were truly worried, or if it was just for show. Besides, bringing them up now seems like a dreadful idea. He isn't going to tell Philippe anything about what he witnessed either, so best to leave that unspoken.]
I'm glad you're safe. But from now on, it'd be best for you to stay here with us. I can only assume that someone in the SBC is working with the one responsible for this, which puts you in danger if you remain there. We'll accompany you back to gather your things, and then you'll remain with us.
[Philippe gives him a look and it takes all of his willpower not to groan as he puts his glasses back on.]
...Philippe will accompany you. I trust that's acceptable for you both?
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He nearly died for her. That, and that alone gets her to shut up and nod her head. She's...actually a little surprised that she's being kept here now, but as she looks to Philippe, to Gardevoir, to Sylveon, Jacinthe knows that might be for the best. To think that someone at the SBC would have it out for her this badly...]
Yes, it is. I will ensure that everything is promptly gathered, with his help. And I will ensure you are all well compensated, for the inconvenience.
[...]
...Thank you, for keeping me safe.
[She's still fairly exhausted, but she needs him to know that before she leaves. Before they go back and get those things that are hers, before she has to find a way to fit it all into whatever room she gets in the Rust Syndicate.
Jacinthe needs Corbeau to at least know that his sacrifice wasn't in vain, even if it likely falls on mostly deaf ears by now.]
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[Don't what? Don't pay them? He's going to have to pay for his medical bills, and that money will still be better used with the Rust Syndicate than in the coffers of a rich family. But he still doesn't like the idea of being paid for being inconvenienced. It just doesn't sit right. Being paid to do a job is perfectly fine - and he did do his job. If she'd worded it as renewing the contract, he wouldn't have had a problem with being paid more. But something about that specific wording just pisses him off and now is not the time to be arguing pointless semantics.
Philippe's giving him a questioning look and Corbeau shakes his head as if to dismiss it. Whatever. That's not the important thing.]
Of course. I'm not letting anything happen to you. You'll be safe here.
[It's extremely unlikely any of his own are after her, after all. Each member of the Rust Syndicate is personally vetted by either Philippe or Corbeau himself. They're all trustworthy. So everything should be fine from here on.]
If you need anything, feel free to ask any of our members. They're aware you'll be staying here and will help out as they can. Philippe and I will likewise be around; you're free to visit me here whenever you'd like.
[But for now he nods to Philippe and his right hand moves to accompany Jacinthe out - may as well let her get started on gathering her things since she'll likely need a bit...]
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Philippe doesn't let her dawdle for too long, even if he seems to be keeping his ear low to the ground as well. No need to let Jacinthe get worked up when it's damn clear that she's reckless enough to act on her impulses to such a degree.
(There's a few other things Gardevoir grabs, in her lady's stead; make-up. Pictures of her and Lebanne. The chaise from her boudoir, even if it's likely just going to be her bed. It's practically been so for years, now.)
But Jacinthe and Philippe are back after quite a few hours, at least, and she and Gardevoir take the primary bulk of getting everything unpacked into their new room. It's not much smaller than the boudoir in the first place; she'd always felt those private quarters to be more like a home than her actual bedroom designed by her parents, and in a way, it's...nice, to have a room that feels like it's actually hers, now.
Of course, there comes the awkward realization that she...really can't keep avoiding Corbeau like she had before, after this. Sure, she'd talked to him with the mask on, but she'd gotten so upset at being shut out. She's still really not over it, if she's going to be honest, and she's not entirely sure why she can't just apologize. Or do something.
But, well...Philippe has confiscated her barrels (he didn't tell her why. part of her wonders if corbeau's worried she's going to fall into it more. part of her just thinks this is the inconvenience payment they want to go with, and you know what, sure. that's the one she's hoping for, at least), and with everything set up properly now, she's not entirely sure what to do. Part of her wants to wait for him to come to her, part of her wants to keep listening to her records in peace without the worry of her mother barging in. He'll likely hear them throughout the next few hours, at least, as she settles in.
...But she elects to visit Corbeau in the evening, because she can't actually stay silent for too long.]
Corbeau, friend? Is now a good time?
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Corbeau's still working his way through paperwork, but this is a much better use of his time. Besides, Philippe will probably be annoyed with him if he spends all of his time awake working.]
Now's fine, yeah. Make yourself at home. Scolipede will move if you want to sit over on the couches.
[rude, you didn't ask him???]
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There's no need for that, come now. He's so delightfully comfortable!
[Jacinthe's going to take a...well she's actually going to sit on the floor like some kind of heathen for the moment, right by the couch where Scolipede lays down. Do you want pets? You about to get so many pets--]
But I would like it if you could join us here. [...] I...really am glad to see that you seem to be recovering okay, all things considered.
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I am. Rest assured that Philippe will force me to take it easy occasionally, regardless of if I want to or not.
[It's wry, though. He can acknowledge his own faults!!]
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Good! I would most hate to have to worry about you more than I already do. I truly am glad that you have someone to help share the load with now, though I do hope that he manages to rest as well! He's certainly quite a hardy man, though, I will give credit where it is due.
[Still, she smiles up at Corbeau from where she's sitting, just. Spoiling the big guy. Who's a good little shitwrecker--]
I do hope you will let me know if there is anything I can do to assist as well, my friend. Ward of yours I may be, I would rather not sit idle.
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Don't worry, I'll make sure he takes a break too. Wouldn't do to have him taken out of commission again.
[And it goes without saying that he's damn relieved to have Philippe back.]
Hah, fair enough. Consider yourself a guest, though. We aren't going to leave you idle, but we're not going to put you to work for the Rust Syndicate either.
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Good! [Jacinthe looks over to him when he mentions Rust Syndicate work, and she does find herself chuckling just a bit.] And here I was hoping to get fitted for a uniform to fit in with the rest...almost a shame, that. But I do thank you. I admit, I've never truly done much work myself, but...
As a guest, it is always proper and polite to assist the host, if one can.
[...Still, she can't resist just making the most heart eyes expression at this big old bug, oh--]
You never told me your partner was so precious though, Corbeau! Oh! I only have a little experience with bug types myself, but this handsome man right here is just melting my heart into a puddle!
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[He waves it off airily before resting his elbow on the armrest and his chin on his hand, watching Jacinthe and Scolipede. The gushing gets a scoff from him.]
He knows he's supposed to look intimidating most of the time, but this time of night? That couch is his and someone better be lavishing attention on him. Absolutely spoiled rotten.
[gee i wonder whose fault that is!!!]
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[Joking aside, Jacinthe listens and can't help but laugh a little when Corbeau talks about his absolutely spoiled partner.]
And he absolutely deserves it, the precious thing! Though, I imagine that he must get quite a bit of that attention from you, hm~? Fierce in battle so he can be so fiercely loved in kind!
[Jacinthe sighs, practically delighted.]
And here I thought Beedrill was the most precious bug type there was, but I do believe they have competition now!
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[Scolipede flops back over so Jacinthe can work on his back now, looking very pleased with himself. Damn right he's earned the pampering!!]
You've got good taste in bugs too, unsurprisingly. Beedrill are a delight; we've got a few who are training some right now.
[No Mega Stones though, sadly. Corbeau would 110% use a Mega Beedrill on his team if he could, but then he'd only Mega Evolve Scolipede anyway...]
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I've no doubt about that! But it is good to hear that you have some in training; they are quite steadfast friends, when one raises them well. I've never liked the simply awful reputation that most seem to give them; one must simply adjust their approach in order to appreciate them, non?
My parent's villa used to have them, before Mother and her Spinarak obsession took over the garden. I used to play with them all the time! The Beedrill themselves were quite wary at first, but I researched how to befriend them and each year, I would watch as their new Weedle came into the world, evolving over time into just the sweetest darlings. Truth be told, I regret not pushing harder to have one as my first partner...
If they happen to be amendable to my company...would you show me them, sometime? They barely come around the garden we keep here, and the wild ones in town have a tendency to flee from me. I would very much love to see them again.
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[can "bee" around them hahahaha—]
Sure thing. We do a lot of training together - especially with Steel- and Poison-types - to ensure everyone's doing a good job of raising their partners. You're welcome to join us. Having some Fairy-types that'll pose a real threat ought to be good for some of our cockier younger members.
[Jacinthe gets to battle and see cute Poison-types, win/win!!]
Did your parents pick your first Pokémon for you?
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[Jacinthe couldn't resist--she titters a bit into her hand, but at the idea of joining them on the battlefield, her eyes practically sparkle.]
Oh, I would love nothing more! The opportunity to show them that mere type advantage cannot be enough to sway the battle in your favor...I would be most honored to show them whatfor, indeed! It would be an absolute delight. Do let me know when you do so, I will gladly bring them down!
[As for the question...Jacinthe pauses at that, going a little quiet as she just focuses on petting Scolipede for a little while, a little softer this time.]
They did, yes. Clefable was my first because they wanted me to specialize in a specific type, but over time, they kept giving me Pokemon to add to my team in order to strengthen it. It was sort of like homework, for me; to learn to adapt to my new partners and learn how to make them shine in battle. I love them all dearly, of course.
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[Corbeau rolls his eyes, the laugh entirely devoid of humor but the smirk gives it away. Puns.......
Anyway, he nods at the first part, but the second part is what has his interest. It isn't really a surprise that her parents chose her Pokémon and even the type she'd train, but that feels... artificial, in a way. Her bond is clearly strong with Sylveon and Gardevoir regardless of if they were of her parents' choosing or not, so ultimately what matters is what she makes of the Pokémon partners she was given, but still...]
Of course. I can see the appeal behind studying to do better with one type above all others; it is what I ended up doing, after all.
[Well, mostly. Gyarados and Barbaracle are outliers and should be counted.]
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Some part of her wonders how things would've gone, if she had a choice.]
Mmm. It's quite an undertaking, to love one type above all else. You must account for it's weaknesses and make up for it with it's strengths; I've heard it said that Pokemon can truly change one over time, to adapt their needs. Perhaps that is a love above all others, oui?
[...]
When this irrational foe of ours is defeated, I may have one more job for you. I...want to catch a Pokemon of my own someday; I do hope I can count on your support, when that time comes.
But...you have made me so very curious. How did you and your darling partner meet? Why, he's so babied I'd assume you raised him from an egg!
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