Post by Dragon on Jul 9, 2009 14:55:47 GMT -5
It's easy to raise pokémon once you've raised a younger brother...
My Parents call me...
[The information is given freely and politely with no hint of regret or ill will towards those involved, his voice naturally uplifting and akin to friendly parlor conversation.][/ul]
My Friends call me...
[He gives a slight chuckle, rubbing softly at his hair before admitting a leisurely smile.][/ul]
I'm not an it! I'm a...
[As he smiles, you get the feeling that he honestly believes the question was not supposed to be serious regardless of his answering it or not.][/ul]
I am a...
[Giving a thoughtful smile, his eyes become distant for the first time since the conversation began. Shaking it off lightly, he continues.]
Though battling is something I truly enjoy. Training has always been a strong suit in our family, and I'm proud to say that I have collected a full set of badges and emblems from every region except for one -- my father's symbol. While I intend to challenge him to a rematch in the future, I've dedicated my time to studying how to make pokémon grow stronger on an individual basis. I've even managed to develop a few powerful techniques! Funny how the new can remind you of the old sometimes...
[His fist clenches happily for a moment before returning to an almost carefree state, lips pursed in a contented smile.][/ul]
I don't need wrinkle cream! I'm...
[As he notices the immediate confusion on your face, he flushes and raises his hands in obvious defense of the previous statement, waving them in a quick, agitated fashion.]
Not for me, I mean! You might be surprised, but Swalot is very particular about the kinds of moisturizers I use on his body. The last thing I want on anybody's hands is an agitated poison pokémon and, between you and me, even he deserves to have a soft, silky exterior!
[The serious implications behind this friendly, honest statement cause you to chuckle a little, Reggie nodding with a wide smile in return.][/ul]
Do you think I need a diet?
[As he continues to smile, you can't help but snicker at the staggering amount of innuendo that was just produced and how seemingly oblivious the provider is to all of it.]
Something tells me you know what I mean. Oh, what?
[You gently point out that the reaction is due to the real question at hand. Liar.]
My appearance? Diets certainly do play a part in that, but you could have just asked in the first place. I won't be shy about it if you won't.
[You laugh again, but Reggie merely shrugs and gives his own chuckle. This was so much easier than interviewing his younger brother! While they did share certain physical traits, it was quite easy to pick up on all the differences as well. Piercing black eyes, though Reggie's still held an inviting warmth. Thick purple hair, the elder's darker and tied back with simple style. Even their toned physiques were similar despite the age difference, Reggie a head taller and built a bit more on the slender than stout side of things. As your observations are made, he continues to chuckle before smoothing out his apron.]
Don't jump to conclusions the minute you see a guy wearing pink, alright? You might be surprised, but pokémon react to colors in the same way that people do -- different combinations can inspire joy, calm, anger... The colors I wear just happen to keep my pokémon relaxed and content, and it makes working with them that much easier.
[As you nod in acknowledgment, he smiles and continues.]
I think they look good as well. While I might not wear anything extravagant, a simple shirt and slacks sure are comfortable and easy to maintain. My apron tends to take the brunt of the dirty work, anyways. Less for me to worry about at the end of the day.
[Giving a light smirk, he seems to revel in this fact before shaking it off with a sigh.][/ul]
My emotional disposition?
[Chuckling, he leans forward and acknowledges the statement innocently with a grin. Pausing to rub the back of his neck afterward, he seems to consider just how many times the answer to that very question has been given before resuming his present thought.]
We really are more alike than people might suggest, but what you see stems from how we display ourselves. Paul is simply more forward and aggressive than anything I could be comfortable with, so in turn, I seem more carefree and approachable. Either way, I do consider myself to be a 'nice guy.'
[His head bobbing along in agreement, Reggie angles his gaze towards yours along with a friendly smile. The tame undertone in his voice rings with a bit more clarity.]
I do my best to keep a positive attitude about things. There are always going to be events you can't control in life, so I focus on the ones you can and try to make them work out for the best. Paul thinks I'm 'too damn optimistic and completely oblivious to everything.'
[Lips curling into a considering smirk, his expression reminds you almost too well of his younger brother. You gulp and mentally prepare for the worst.]
The secret to enjoying life is choosing to enjoy it. By no means does it make me ignorant to my surroundings. He could learn to lighten up a bit himself, or at least smile once in a while. You should see him when he smiles!
[Well that was unexpected. His expression fading into a picture of relaxed contentment, you can't help but be impressed with Reggie's ability not to 'sweat the small stuff.' He chuckles, lingering on his opinion just a bit more before giving a small shrug.]
I'm almost sure that if Paul had been the one to raise me instead of the other way around, we would be the opposite of each other today. Taking care of him really taught me how to be patient, to be honest, to share... the responsibilities of being the older sibling really motivate you to be a good role model. They did for me, at least, and I like to think that Paul respects me for the effort. You'll never get him to admit it openly, though.
[Rubbing the back of his head, Reggie closes his eyes and smiles in an apologetic manner. He seems relieved when you start to chuckle.]
He's a handful sometimes, but you have to understand that I know Paul better than anyone. We're both hard workers and extremely determined when it comes to personal goals, but his line of focus is more direct than mine. Raising a strong, healthy team of pokémon is important, though I seem to enjoy the interaction more than Paul does. Still, his team is impressive, and I'll do my best to support him in any way I can. That's what big brothers do, right?
[Tilting his head to one side with a grin, you both understand that there's no answer necessary.][/ul]
Things that are Groovy:
♥ Battling - It's so easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment, and there's nothing quite like it! You almost feel like a different person sometimes.
♥ Breeding - Not quite as fast-paced, but it's another great way to bond with your pokémon and become even stronger.
♥ Cooking - It's one of my favorite hobbies, actually. I've gotten pretty good when it comes to chicken, noodles and desserts.
♥ Mentoring - All those years spent raising my little brother really made me appreciate the joy you get from helping others. With years of experience and a nearly complete collection of badges, I'm happy to be of assistance in any way I can.
♥ The Outdoors - Confined spaces aren't as comfortable, and fresh air just has a way of keeping you active, healthy and all-in-all, relaxed.
♥ Confidence - Having pride in yourself and what you do feels great! Just don't let things go too much to your head, alright?
♥ Strength - To me, it gauges experience and personal effort. No matter how you look at it, being strong does matter and can make things potentially easier in the long run.
♥ Victory - Everybody likes to win, and it's a fantastic motivator. Once you've tasted victory, you just can't go back or settle for anything less.
♥ Paul - Little Bro! He's extremely strong-willed and dedicated to becoming a top notch trainer, something I both respect and support. He may come across as cold more often than not, but as a brother, Paul is both loyal and devoted. I really do care about him...[/ul]
Things that aren't so Groovy:
Why waste energy on the negatives when you can be doing something positive instead?[/color][/ul]
But...I'm afraid!
[His voice is calm and holds no fear, per say. It can possibly be described as concern or disappointment, perhaps a little of both. Glancing towards you, he gives a weak smile and attempts to keep the conversation going in a positive manner.]
He has no reason to lie, but I just can't seem to make myself believe the explanation for my loss. My only loss... All those badges can't have been won on a fluke. Perhaps having a lack of style is a strategy in itself?
[Giving a brief shrug, he gently pushes the matter aside and seems to focus on something else, causing him to smile.]
But that's not my biggest fear. I'm afraid that Paul might find out why I...
[He notices the curiosity on your face and becomes distracted, shaking his head is slight relief and chuckling.]
It's nothing bad, I can assure you. Please... Allow me to explain later.[/ul]
I like to...
[He gives you a half-innocent glance before shaking the thought off, chuckling a little.][/ul]
My reason?
[His request is extremely polite and without hesitation, giving you the impression that Reggie is honestly trying to make this as easy as possible for both of you. As the information will be given eventually and there is no harm in postponing the answer,
you nod in acknowledgment.][/ul]
Mandatory Angst:
[Giving a light chuckle, he shakes his head thoughtfully with a smile.]
While I grew up in Veilstone, it might surprise you to know that I'm a native of Lilycove City in the Hoenn Region. That and I was born on a
[The look on your face is enough to have Reggie burst out laughing, cheeks glistening with a childish sort of joy before he rubs his eyes in momentary relief. Focus returning, his smile holds an adamant curl of approval.]
As I said before, my father is Brandon -- the Pyramid King. Dad is always so busy with his work and, with a mobile battle facility, it would have been difficult to include both parents at any kind of special event. From what I remember, Mom compromised and eventually agreed to have Paul and I inside the pyramid instead of in Lilycove. Funny that it took either a birth or a battle for me to ever visit that place... It reminds me of Mom in a lot of ways.
[His eyes lose a bit of their original luster, Reggie looking away candidly. After what seems to be several moments of intense silence, his lips curve upwards into a gentle expression of reminiscence.]
She loved us both so much, and she was always smiling. I think that's what I remember about her the most. She was smiling even after Paul was born and everything began to get harder. Mom said that her last trip to the pyramid made it difficult to move, so I had to be her 'very important helper' when it came to taking care of my little brother. I felt so proud that she trusted me with him! I did my best to learn everything I could to make them both happy, thinking that she just needed my assistance... I could have never known that she was teaching me to take her place.
[Shaking his head in obvious remorse, he looks up stoically from his position, the smile on his face becoming weaker though it forcefully remains.]
She died a few months after that from an internal tear. There was nothing anybody could do. Paul was still too young to remember any of it, and we were sent to live with our Aunt and Uncle in Veilstone soon after.
[Readjusting his position, Reggie looks slightly relieved to be speaking on another subject. The inkling of a smile suitable to his personality returns, and the waver in his voice disappears entirely.]
While they were never bad caretakers, my Aunt and Uncle were very much like Dad in some ways. They loved to gamble, and were constantly out of the house living their own lives. They tended to leave more often once my Aunt realized I knew how to take care of Paul better than she did -- at least they waited to do so until we were older and more capable. I can't imagine what it would have been like if we had been forced to fend for ourselves.
[The thought seems to restore a bit of his original humor, a low chuckle escaping his throat.]
Still, I always had to remind her about the little things, like putting only bacon on Paul's sandwich when she made BLTs. Sometimes cheese... We always had to ask if he wanted cheese or not because Paul changed his mind all the time.
[The warmth in his voice does little to betray the obvious affection he feels for his brother and you smile, impressed by how much Reggie actually knows about Paul concerning his...'care.']
We were always together. I honestly can't remember a day going by without Paul by my side, and in our house, there was always somewhere new to explore! Years passed and soon we were attending school. Perhaps I wasn't the best student, but I worked hard and found it easy to get along with everyone. It was odd being away from my little brother at first during the day, but we were just as close once classes ended. I don't know why those instructors I overheard said that Paul was inattentive and quiet. He was so full of energy around me...
It was looking to be a rather chilly evening, a playful breeze curling through the fading colors of a late October sky. A picture perfect setting for that fated night of tricks and treats, Halloween.
While they had still been obligated to attend classes, most of their lessons had been replaced with a slew of holiday-oriented games and activities, each and every student leaving the schoolyard a heaping pocketful of candy richer. Upon arriving home, costumes had been laid out and everything was arranged to begin carving jack-o-lanterns. Not without 'parental' supervision, of course -- Paul was still a bit young to be handling that sharp a knife by himself. And so the two boys waited eagerly for their Uncle to finish his own entertainment, Paul giving a small cheer and Reggie squeezing his shoulders happily when they were finally told that it was time to start.
For one magical hour, the kitchen was alive with laughter and the smell of newspaper and fresh pumpkin guts. Seeds carefully submerged in a bowl of water on the table, a pair of curious black eyes were currently reflected within its surface, tiny fingers squelching absentmindedly into a nearby pile of orange flesh.
"Why're we saving these again? They don't look good to eat."
His voice masked by a childish whine, it was obvious for the moment that Paul was being more inquisitive than confrontational. Thick, expressive eyebrows wrinkled in protest, the boy shooting a glance towards his older brother with a deceptive pout forming across his bottom lip.
The response was upbeat and almost immediate, though the brother in question was still focusing on his pumpkin as well, knife steadied against an area yet to be carved.
"We have to bake them first, silly! And they don't have the spices on them yet, either."
While the explanation was obvious in Reggie's mind, he laughed and continued on for his brother's sake with a wide grin. Tools set aside, he made the effort to meet Paul's gaze this time when the words came.
"They'll taste good when we're done with them. Promise!"
That was all it took. Doubt lifting like a thin fog, Paul gave a quick nod and stared into the container once again, smiling in approval. Reggie didn't lie, so there was no need to worry about those stupid seeds anymore. They were worth it. Giving a light scoff, their Uncle smiled and continued helping the smaller boy carve his pumpkin. How Reggie was able to assure Paul 'just like that' he would never know, but he was grateful. It made taking care of them that much easier.
"Is my pumpkin almost done? It better be scary!
The eager, almost demanding statement from Paul was enough to have Reggie laughing, the younger boy letting out a contagious giggle before toddling over towards their Uncle to see his progress. The face was indeed something to behold and made to Paul's exact
"Well, how does it look?
"It's PERFECT!"
Leaning over the table to get a better look, their Uncle angled the face towards Reggie, who in turn applauded with a wide smile. Slouching back into his own chair, fingers carefully wrapped back around their carving knife and began to cut away at his own pumpkin once more. Slender eyebrows rose in full concentration.
"Great! Gimme one more minute and I'll be done too, okay? Then we can get our costumes!"
As if the completed jack-o-lantern had not been enough to rile Paul into a state of pure happiness, Reggie's mention of their costumes was enough to have the boy nearly tripping over his own feet in anticipation as he skipped along the table edge towards his older brother. Fingers curling around the wooden rim, Paul gleamed up in triumph.
"My costume is the best this year! I'm gonna scare everyone and bring home SO much candy, right Reggie?"
The older boy simply smiled and nodded in approval as if it were simply routine.
"Yep. And guess what? I'm finished!
There was no hesitation on Reggie's part to continue turning his pumpkin around as Paul thrust his tiny fist into the air with a cheer and grabbed onto his brother's arm, pulling him towards the kitchen door. As the boys went to get their costumes, their Uncle shouted up the stairs after them in mild frustration to make sure and wash their hands first. Turning back towards the table, he carefully began to clean up the discarded pumpkin parts, but not before catching a glance at what Reggie had decided to carve. The face before him smiled back with a large, pointed grin, eyes aloof as if listening to a pleasant joke. He chuckled, putting both jack-o-lanterns aside on a nearby counter and pulling over a nearby trash can.
My, those boys certainly were different.
- - -
The entire house seemed to momentarily shake as Paul dramatically stomped down the staircase, black eyes sparkling with excitement. Letting out a prepubescent roar, the costumed figure made a sudden leap and landed at the base of the stairs with a wide, almost wicked looking grin.
"RAWRRR~ I'm a Garydos!"
That much was apparent
"You sure are, heh!"
While Gyrados were nothing to laugh at, Reggie continued to chuckle as he descended the stairs, pulling at a pair of large, over-sized purple gloves with a playful smile. His long hair wildly askew (after finding a bottle of their Aunt's hair spray), a pair of pointy, purple ears poked through the chaos. The color theme continued through his shirt as well, a long pink dress tie hanging haphazardly from his neck. All in all, it was a very original representation of the ghost pokémon, and Reggie grinned like a good Haunter should.
Turning around to face his older brother with another roar, Paul began to hop anxiously from one foot to the other
"Come ON, Reggie! It's time to go!"
"Alright alright... just don't use Dragon Rage on me, okay?"
The thought brought a spark of consideration to his brother's face, Reggie laughing happily before wrapping the boy in a hug. Paul returned the gesture momentarily before wiggling free, scampering towards the door to pick up his pumpkin. It was tradition -- the boys had to pose for a picture before leaving, and their Uncle was already making his way into the foyer with the camera. Looking over each of their costumes, he began to laugh. Paul snarled and Reggie cackled respectively in character as each rearranged the jack-o-lanterns in their arms.
"Alright boys, say 'Butterfree!'"
The shutter flashed, capturing an image of four very different looking faces. Two expressions seemed to laugh while the other two bared their teeth in a terrifying manner.
It was one for the albums, to be sure.
I still have that picture, you know... Time passed and when I turned ten, it was one of the best moments of my life. I was finally allowed to receive my first pokémon and become an official trainer! Paul wanted one too, and it was hard to explain that he would have to wait a few more years.
[Nodding thoughtfully, a thin smile plays across his lips.]
Although I wanted to go out and explore the world, Paul was still so young and I had been taking care of him for so long... In the end, I decided it would be best to wait until I was thirteen to leave the region. That doesn't mean I didn't take the time to travel through Sinnoh or train Turtwig! From the moment I started working with pokémon, Paul began to watch my every move when we were together. He was my biggest fan, and I wanted to be strong for him -- even more than what it meant just being his older brother...
[An overwhelming flush of pride covers Reggie's cheek, chin lifted in a defiant sense of self that catches you by surprise. His eyes flashing with a sort of passion you did not believe existed, fists suddenly clench before relaxing back into a passive yet energized state. Your expression catches his gaze, and he chuckles warmly.]
I earned my first set of badges before Paul turned ten, and battling by then had become a routine for me similar to breathing. Any good trainer can tell you how easy it is to become someone completely different under the circumstances.
[The excitement in his voice begins to exponentially rise.]
Facing down your opponent with pride and showing your strength, standing victorious in the end as knees buckle and fall before your eyes. It makes you feel confident, secure, pulsing inside you almost like a second heartbeat, and the adrenaline... it just makes you feel invincible. Battling is and always will be my one true passion.
[His eyes laugh in harmony with the joy splashed across your face, both expressions reveling in the heated moment before Reggie forcibly reduces his animosity to its original, contented facade. Catching your gaze, the polite yet stern manner in which Reggie is now staring at you demands that your attention be held. Taking a deep breath, the next words he speaks are stated calmly and with incredible purpose.]
But for now, I have to set it all aside. For Paul's sake.
[You begin to vocalize your shock, but Reggie merely shakes his head and continues his explanation at the expense of your curiosity border lining on awe.]
Paul was my biggest fan and, as I traveled to other regions collecting badges, I invited him to visit on several occasions. I can safely say that the Gym Battles he was present for were always more intense than the ones I fought alone. Our bond only seemed to strengthen with time and soon, I noticed that he was beginning to train in a very familiar way. My younger brother was following in my footsteps. Exactly. I was honored, but at the same time, I was concerned. Paul is such an amazing person -- I couldn't let him become my shadow.
[Your horrified expression gives away to an immediate trickle of understanding, and Reggie nods stoically in approval with a smile. He was rather insightful for putting this information off until the right moment.]
I continued to win every battle, collect every badge until I returned to Pewter City to pay a necessary visit aboard the Battle Pyramid... My fight with Dad was the one match that changed everything. The night before our battle, I found him and explained why I needed to lose, why he needed to tell me something, anything to reinforce the loss as truly significant. I'll never forget... Dad looked me in the eyes and made me swear I would give it my all. I did. I know I did. I've never sweat so hard in my entire life, and Paul was watching.
When I lost, Dad and I both knew it wasn't because of our previous agreement -- it was my own defeat. I could see it in his eyes. Dad kept his side of the bargain, though...
Lack of a unique battle strategy. That was the reason he gave me.
[He doesn't speak for several moments, staring forward with a very thoughtful expression. The smile on his face is uncomfortably missing in action.]
I haven't battled since that day. Paul was heartbroken, angry... but it forced him to rely on his own strategies as a trainer. I've watched him change and grow over the years, wondering if I made the right choice.
[Looking up with a weak smile, his eyes are lost in a state of personal reassurance.]
I know I did, but I can't help feeling like he could never forgive me for that loss. I haven't given up on battling for good, but Paul can't know that. Not until he proves he can be strong on his own. I love him too much to give up what I've been hiding for so long until the right moment. He means more to me than battling ever could...
Please, promise me that all this will be kept secret.
[You smile and nod immediately, noting that Reggie simply took up breeding as an alternate hobby to training. He manages to finally smile in relief, the color returning to his cheeks.]
Thank you. Very much.[/ul]
Oh and by the way...
[Cheeks flushing, he gives a prideful little grin.]
Please. Don't tell Paul.
[You smirk at the lack of detail Reggie gives on this topic, but respect his wishes with a nod. He sighs in relief and the grin widens. Perhaps becoming a breeder has strong points other than those related to pokémon...][/ul]
I'm just a proxy for...
[He points gently towards the door, immediately acknowledging the
Dragon: Thanks, Reggie. rawrawr~
[With a chuckle, he nods.]
No problem. Oh! Would you mind checking on the noodles for me? They should be just about done.
Dragon: Heh, sure.
[Turning back towards you, he smiles sheepishly and rubs the back of his head as Dragon quickly goes out the door.]
Excuse me for not saying anything before, but I was cooking something right before you asked for the interview. Perhaps you'd like to join us?
[You nod vigorously, and he grins in approval. Nothing wrong with a free meal.]
I hope you like your noodles spicy![/ul]
Here's some of their writing!
Rubbing his eyes furiously, Reggie coughed as the thick cloud of dust filled his nose and lungs. Wearily lowering his shield, determined black eyes blinked towards the figure steadily regaining his senses within the crash site.
"Staraptor, are you alright?
Shaking out its large, prominent crest, the great bird bellowed in approval before spreading its wings and taking to the skies once again. Smiling in obvious relief and even greater approval, the young man clenched both fists at his sides in acknowledgment of his companion's strength.
They were both going to finish what they started.
They were going to perfect this technique.
"Great job! Now, let's try it again. Brave Bird!"
The pokémon gave a shriek and, upon attaining the proper altitude, began to plummet towards the ground at a rapid pace. A wave of fire suddenly enveloped the bird, spiraling in a monstrous vortex of heat and power as velocity increased at an exponential rate. Just as it looked like Staraptor was about to crash, a surge of energy backfired and the bird was blown off balance, once again forging a colossal impact with the cratered training grounds.
"STARAPTOR!"
Four attempts, each attempt ending in obvious failure.
Running forward, long purple hair bobbed with little care in the ponytail tied just below his shoulders. Kneeling down next to his companion, it came as no surprise to Reggie that Staraptor was alright -- the level of endurance he possessed was absolutely incredible. However, Staraptor was beginning to show signs of exhaustion from the constant increases in power needed to begin the technique...
Taking a moment to slowly weave his fingers through that magnificent crest, the breeder gave a warm smile.
"You were much closer that time. What happened?"
"Sta-RAPtor."
The proud tone embedded in the pokémon's voice was enough to make Reggie chuckle, letting his hand migrate to the soft, durable plumage on Staraptor's back. They had been together for several months now, the great bird evolving before his very eyes, but every once in a while that old personality shone through.
The personality that reminded him where Staraptor had come from and that no matter what, weakness would not be tolerated. Not now, not ever.
So be it. Lowering his gaze, Reggie's voice was suddenly commanding and laced with a source of new found energy.
"Staraptor, you have to throw it away."
"Star?"
The statement was accompanied by a chuckle, Reggie staring the giant bird straight in the eye with absolute confidence.
"When you dive. You have to throw the power away. Trust me -- throw it away with all the strength you have and it'll be worth it. I promise."
There was no hesitation in Staraptor's motions as it quickly stood, flapping its massive wings several times in renewed exhilaration before deciding to become airborne. Quickly brushing off his apron, Reggie stood and watched the bird with a smug, assured expression.
They were going to succeed this time. Together.
"You ready to go all out, Staraptor? Brave Bird!"
For the fifth time, Staraptor descended in a blaze of fiery glory, body engulfed in an inferno of immeasurable power. For the fifth time, the bird focused with all its strength on allowing the velocity to build just beyond the point of control...
And for the first time, Staraptor gave away the will to keep this power to itself, denying it with every hollow bone in its body.
A flash of bright light exploded around the pokémon, Staraptor leveling out with the ground and moving faster than ever before. Waves of powerful blue aura careened over the streamlined form, strength coursing through the bird like electricity.
"WAY TO GO, STARAPTOR!"
From a distance, Reggie looked on and gave his companion a triumphant shout. His body tensing with excitement and pride, a sharp call of gratitude rang through the air as Staraptor rose high into the air and broke off the new technique. Their new technique.
Giving up strength to become stronger. Reggie smiled wide -- Paul might be interested to hear about this.[/ul]
