The lone eevee sits in the middle of a disaster.
Trees and branches litter the forest floor, as the wind is still howling rather loudly from the passing storm.
Her ears twitch at the sounds of footsteps, and she whips around quickly.
"...Hello?" a rough, but clear voice rang out, almost comforting in a time like this. A rather well built Leafeon steps out of the shadows.
The eevee rushes forward, burying her face into his chest. It takes him by surprise, but he puts a paw on her to show his affection.
"It's okay, shh..." He whispers softly, calming the young one.
"Where are your parents, dear?" He asks quietly.
The eevee shakes her head in reply, letting out a stuttering sigh.
"Oh dear..." He picks her up by the scruff, and mutters through the furry coat, "It'll be okay. I'll take care of you. The Pokémon rangers always do."
"Hey! C'mon, Elle, wake up already!" A voice pricked at the female Espeon's ears, as she stirred slightly.
"...Augh. Why so early, Artie?"
"I told you not to call me that."
"But Artemus sounds so serious! So unlike you!" She purred softly. He nibbled her ear playfully in response.
"Anyway... It really is time to get up now. We have morning patrol." He laughed softly. She flipped over onto her back, taking the male umbreon down with her.
"H-hey! Stop that, Elle!" He growled playfully. Elle however, continued to play fight with Artemus.
Eventually someone found out...
"Elle. Artemus." A booming voice sounded around the hollowed tree. Elle sat up quickly, as did Artie.
"You are late for patrol. Again." The Leafeon growled. Elle slumped her head, and Artie looked to the ground.
"Sorry, Jackson..." They said in unison.
"You've been 'sorry' for at least three days now. Time to start acting your age, Elle." He stated to the Espeon.
"I expect more from you, Artemus."
"Yes sir." Artie lowered his ears.
"Please allow me to speak to Elle alone, Artemus." Jackson ordered. The umbreon nodded without a word, shooting Elle a worried glance, and left quickly.
"...What is it Jackson..?" Elle questioned.
"You know why we have these patrols and why they are so important." Jackson scolded.
"Yes, I know." Elle said quietly.
"Because the humans are dirty, defoliate creatures, who care nothing more than battle." Jackson growled.
"I know, but I've never even seen a human, Jackson!" Elle argued. The now angered Leafeon shot her a look of anger, and she was silenced.
"I'm trying to protect you, Elle. You should be thanking me for this!" Jackson yelled, causing Elle to lower her ears pathetically.
"Just listen to me every once in a while, will you?" Jackson asked, not wanting a reply. "Now go out with your team. The patrol needs you." He stated.
Elle nodded, and backed out the door.