Oh, this can't be happening!

Oh, but it is.

A battle? Two on two!?

Yeah, another name for it would be a double battle.

What if he's really really good and I suck more than usual?

Well, he is a member of the Elite Four.

Okay, I can't even get reassurance in my mind!

Don't.

Panic.

Don't Panic.

What are you freaking out about? It's not like this is a date or anything. You're only going to battle one of the hottest guys in Sinnoh, if not THE hottest guy in Sinnoh, aaaand make a big fool of yourself while doing it. 'Cause ya know, it's not like he's part of the Elite Four or anything. And just because you have a burning hot infatuation for him doesn't mean he feels the same way.

*sigh*

Maybe..maybe I should just…not show up..it's not like I'll be wasting his time or anything. I'm sure he's got more important things to do anyways. Volkner might need some help at his gym, or maybe another girl in a bikini came trouncing by. I wouldn't be surprised if he'd totally forgotten all about it, really.

I burrow further into my sheets and let my comforter swallow me under its warmth. All of these thoughts were racing faster than the sun could rise. The sky was still dark with quite a few clouds blotting out the moonlight. In between the cloud breaks, the slight shimmer of stars presented itself.

*sigh*

What do I do?

I stare out the window for another moment before I decided to sit up and slip on a pair of socks that happened to be at my bedside. I grope the neck of my lamp until I find the switch and with a couple of clicks, the room is brightly lit. Across the room on my bureau were six pokeballs; each decorated in variety of seals that I thought matched each of my cuties the best. As I got up to gather my pokemon, I notice that one of the balls – one decorated with pink petals and lines – was already open. Not much to my surprise, my Whimsicott has escaped and is probably hiding somewhere. Even though he seems to do this at the most inappropriate times, I can't help but to forgive him. It's because he's so fluffy and cuddly and adorable that he always get away with it!

Before I start the search for my mischievous Whimsicott, I go over to my closet and look for a decent shirt that would be comfortable enough for early morning beach weather. I don't know why, but the cropped tee with a bunch of jolly Ludicolos on the front spoke to me and said 'wear me'. Because it's Sunyshore, I just feel the need to throw on some shorts. So there's not always much question in wardrobe when it comes to that!

Before I put on my shorts and shirt, I head back over to my drawer and snag a simple dual-colored bikini from the bureau and change into that. Once again, a bikini is a given! Sometimes I wonder why I even buy bra and panties anymore if all I'm going to wear is a bikini underneath! After I handle that, on goes my shirt and shorts and back over to the closet I go.

On the closet floor was a small, one compartment bag that opened and closed by the amount of tension that was in the straps. Right beside that was a pair of sneakers that were in good condition, but it was evident that they have been worn down a bit from the dusty coloration along the soles. Although they were tied, I still slip them on as if they were laceless. Once both feet were equipped with sneakers, I snatch up my bag and head back towards my bureau to collect my pokemon.

After I bag my babies, I switch my lamp off and exit the room. Okay, it's a good thing I keep my house clean 'cause I'm sure I would probably trip over something and die. Hide-and-Go-Seek in the dark can be one of the most dangerous things ever when a Whimsicott is involved. The places he hide in!

"Wiiiily, wheeeere are yoooou?"

I cautiously make my way down the hall and stop in front of the bathroom.

"Wily, come on, we're heading down to the beach as soon as you come out of hiding!"

I'm almost certain that I heard a small giggle come from the kitchen, but for all I know, he could be in the living room or in the hall with me. He's creepy like that.

"Do you want to be left here all alone? We have some important things to do today, we need to get an early start!"

Each footstep was careful not to trip or kick anything as I was now in living room. I was almost at the door.

"Alright, we're goAAAHHHH! WILY!"

Right as I turned to announce my departure, a mass of cotton fell from the ceiling and landed on my face! The fluffy lump of trouble detached himself from my head since his laughing fit wouldn't allow him to have a firm grasp. If I really wanted to be a cruel, heartless trainer, I would definitely get down and tickle him some more. But I won't. I have a heart. For today, anyways.

Instead, I pick up the giddy fluffball and prepare to leave the house. I take a moment to pause and remember the mini-conversation I had with myself in my mind earlier. Another deep breath calls for another deep sigh. Even though it's dark, I can feel thoughtful, amber eyes look up into my face with curiosity.

So..here's what I can try to do..


"No, no, no! Snipes, you need to time your attack with Wipple! If it's not precise, Wily can easily dodge and Metti will have a clear shot! Okay okay, start from the beginning, don't worry, it's just practice. We're just training, guys, don't panic,"

I can see that they're trying, and it's obvious that they take care to not disappoint me. I try to shake the frustration out of my voice when I give a command or when I try to rectify a minor mistake, but my dissatisfaction is too evident. I let myself drop down into the sand with an ungraceful plop. I continue to observe the current mock double-battle with as much patience as I can muster up at the moment.

Snipes initiate the battle with Icy Wind while Wipple simultaneously uses Will-O-Wisp; potentially surrounding Wily and Metti with status attacks against their favor. Being the speedy Whimsicott he is, Wily easily evades using Hurricane – riding the wind and tossing up quite a bit of sand all over the place. Metti used this opportunity to throw a Bullet Punch in Snipes' direction. Snipes was almost clocked until Wipple saved the day; using his body as a shield, Wipple allowed Metti to hit him, inflicting minimal damage. I had to do a mini-clap when I realized he was using his Flame Body ability! Aww, they're making me a happy pokemon owner!

Even with Wipple covering for him, Snipes wasn't out of the clear yet! Ugh, they should all know not to ever leave Wily out of sight! Here comes Wily from mid-air with a Shadow Ball fully formed and ready to throw. Quick on his stubby little feet, Snipes is able to create a Blizzard – sending harsh, icy winds all over the beach and catching Wily off guard.

"YEAH! That's what I want to see guys, this is it! Keep it up!" I cheered, jumping to my feet super excited. I think we might have something, here! I'll let them get a few more turns in and then we can take a break or something.

My Rotom looked at me and I could tell it was finally at ease. It was a bit unsettled earlier – probably because of my crazy spouting.

"Rottz, what do you wanna be when you battle? Please not the silly lawnmower; that form doesn't seem to be all that helpful."

It bobbled about eagerly as a response to my comment. Hehe, it's the small little moments like these that make me happy. I know I'm not much of a pokemon trainer, but my pokemon make it seem otherwise. I put all of my weight on my hands and recline back in the sand. Turning my attention back to the battle on the beach, I almost fainted!

The sun had actually began to rise and a third of it was now visible. I don't know if it was tad bit too dark for me notice before, but the beach was a mess! Sand was strewn all over the place – making lumpy mounds and deep trenches. Ice crystals covered some of the humps, while full-on ice boulders jutted out dangerously on the beach. Of course, Wipple had done some damage, too; leaving behind a lot of smoldering cinders in small pockets of the sand.

"STOP! Alright, we're done!" I charged into the battle 'arena' to halt the training. Expecting eyes focused on me, awaiting a critique.

"You guys were perfect this time, I'm really proud, but LOOK. We're going to get kicked off the beach forever if we can't straighten this place up before someone sees it!" Panic was evident in the way I threw my arms about, using gestures to help explain the situation.

Everyone looked wiped, to be honest, but do I look like I can summon a hurricane to even out the sand or calm the waters?!

Of course, without protest, my precious babies set to work and didn't hesitate for a second to help out. The sun was up high enough to illuminate the land with intense rays of reds and oranges. From what I could see, no one was coming down from town to walk the shores. Or not yet, anyways.

Once the beach was looking spiffy enough to be presentable to the public, I began to relax and sat down atop one of my favorite rocks. There was a subtle breeze dancing about that seemed to put me at ease all the more. My mind began to drift off into thought, but in a good way.

Why was I so afraid of battling Flint? I mean, yeah, all of the reasons I had before are still pretty damn valid, but look at my pokemon! Wipple is one of the bravest and most loyal Chandelures anyone could ask for for even coming onto a beach! I'm sure a Snorunt would prefer to be somewhere a bit cooler than a beach, so I give cred to Snipes as well. For being a Metang of solitude, Metti does well for being out around people all the time, and I think Rottz gets a little upset every now and then when it's not able to pull any pranks on anyone. Wily is Wily. He's happy-go-lucky and doesn't take any of my scolding personally. Same with Shejin, except being void of actually showing it. Ever.

But speaking of which…

Oh damn it.

As I was assessing all of my pokemon, I would look at them. All of them except Shejin, of course. When did he vanish? During the battle? During the clean up? During whenever he feels like fainting?

Ugh.

"Alright guys, I know how tired you are, and I know it's about time to kick back and relax, but we gotta do one more thing before that can happen," I scooted off my rock and rubbed my face a bit. They awaited the next bit of info with eagerness. D'aww, they are the best!

"It appears that we've lost Shejin again, sooo yeah..I have no idea where he went…" With that being all that needed to be said, we all began to comb the beach. There weren't any obvious lumps, and if he were to be wedged in some rocks or something, his coloration would make him stand out a bit in the sun's off-colored rays. The only place I could really see him to be would be the..

Oh man..

Ocean.

I stop my beachcombing at this wonderful realization.

*sigh*

None of my pokemon are really equipped to head into the water, and they've done enough already to help out.

Arrgh, I really don't feel like getting wet, I really don't feel like getting wet, I really really don't feel like stumbling across a creepy pokemon that will scare the living daylights out of me ahhhh!

*sigh*

To hell with it.

Off goes my shirt and shorts as I approach the water's edge. The sun has barely risen, so of course this water is gonna be hella cold. I reluctantly take off my socks and shoes and test the water's temperature. And boy does it feel like the worst decision of my life!

Well actually…because it is the ocean, it really wasn't all that bad, but I'm a baby and I'll make sure to complain anyways.

I slowly dip into the water until I'm waist high in the ocean. Honestly, this feels kinda nice, so I guess this isn't all that bad of a thing! Plus it's always a good idea being calm when there's a chance of encountering a Tentacruel or some other unfriendly-looking water pokemon.

I survey the ocean's surface for any bobbing object that could be a fainted Shedinja. There really isn't anything out there that I could see, but hey, it's worth the search. I stride out a little further until the water level's at my chest, and right as I was about to start out, my pokemon began to make a lot of noise.

Wily runs to the water's edge and hops around excitedly. Slightly confused, I turn around completely to see what he's trying to tell me. The others were bouncing about too, looking in the direction of the city. I focus my attention to towards the distant buildings and I see something moving, heading in this direction.

What is that?

Is it a Sudowoodo?

It can't be..its color is off..unless, of course, it's a shiny! Maybe I should catch it?

As the figure came closer to the beach, its shape became a bit more tall and lankier.

Well, nah, I don't think I could really do much with it. Ehh, that doesn't look like a Sudowoodo now that I can see it better…

Wily was still jumping around ecstatically, urging me to come out of the water. Moving along with the tide, I stumble onto the shore with the weight of the water pulling me down. Wily ran off towards the figure after I came ashore.

I don't know why, but the closer it came to view, the more anxious I grew.

Okay, so that definitely isn't a Sudowoodo..

From the build of it, it's definitely…a human. Oh, so I guess it's time for the early morning people to come out on to the beach with their itemfinders.

Saaay, I know the sun's morning rays can be intense, but a hat that big isn't necessary. Or at least I don't think it's necessary. Though that shade of red looks nice in the sunlight.

O-oh, that person sort of shares the same shape of someone….I know..i-is…

Wait a minute…that's not a hat, is it!?

And that lanky figure, not a lot of people around here is that tall!

Ohhh nooo….

I..I gotta….

Run.

Upon that realization, I tried to snatch Wily up to hide myself, but that damn Whimsicott and his speed! Not really caring how ridiculous it would look to hide behind a Whimsicott in the first place, I thought about my other options that were equally stupid.

Okay, if Wily and the others distract him, I could lay down flat and cover myself in sand! O-or ease my way back into the ocean, or- OH! Lemme sneak behind this boulder before he sees m-

"Yo!"

Nope, I guess dying is the only choice now. Byeee!

While I was devising an escape plan, Mr. Nicely-Sculpted-Abs was already in clear view, coming my way. My hands covered my face in embarrassment and I just stood there, petrified just by being in his presence.

"I thought that was you, and I think this belongs to you? Oh, hey, are you okay?"

Don't cry don't cry don't cry

I attempted to look into his face but the most I could do was spread a couple of fingers apart and peer through them. Once I realized that I was being more idiotic than usual, I dropped my hands sharply by my side and looked into his eyes.

Pewter eyes were locked onto mine with sincere concern. I guess he doesn't know this, but uh, you can't expect me to reply immediately whenever I look into such alluring eyes. It takes a blink from me to finally snap out of my dream world.

"Oh um, yeah, I'm fine, aha," I try to play it off but DAMN am I hopeless or what? "I was just um, looking for my Shedinja. It seems like every time we come down here, I find a way to lose him!"

Flint's worried frown easily flipped into a wide smile as he raised what was in his hands. "I knew he belonged to you! You're the only one person I've ever seen with Shedinja, actually."

AHH I'm so glad Shejin is back! I think he would be happy, too. If only he wasn't K'OD again. I take him out of Flint's custody and wrap him in my arms.

"Oh thank you so much! I was looking all over for him! Thank you so much, um, Flint. This is the third time you've helped me out within the three days that we've met!"

Oh my goodness I said his name…OUT LOUD. Does he think I'm weird? He must think I'm a careless person for losing my pokemon! He's probably thinking I'm helpless if I can't solve my own problems. 'Wow, whatta loser, who even owns a Shedinja?' he says in his mind.

"Hey, it's no problem! Anything for a pretty lady such as yourself."

There's that charming smile that melts your heart into a soupy puddle and the sweetest words that serenades the ears.

"Oh, thank you, you're.. too kind," My eyes settle down to the sand as my face begins to heat up. Though I gotta give myself props for not staring at his body. Go meee.

"Hey, Ami,"

Trying my best not to look at every inch of his body, I lifted my head in response. I know my face was burning red, and I know any facial expression I wore was going to look silly, but…I'm starting not to care. It's not like I can really help it anymore.

"Do you-, ahh, what are you doing up so early, anyways?" He started to say something, but stopped himself. If…I-if I'm not mistaken, it looks like..he's blushhhhnah I doubt it.

"O-oh, well..you're going to think this is so stupid if I tell you," I admit.

"Oh c'mon! I doubt you're capable of doing anything stupid, Ami." His tone was playful, but serious. I still couldn't tell if it was sarcasm or not..

"Well, um…you promise not to laugh?" I ask, obviously nervous.

I can't believe this happening, though! It's like we're progressing to another level in our imaginary relationship – gaining trust! Oh man, we're on fire here!

"I promise," Flint officiated the promise with a nod of the head and an earnest smile.

Am I…reeeally going to…tell him? He'll think I'm a sore loser for sure!

I think my nerves really got to me. I'm either shut tight like a Clamperl with nothing to say or I'm non-stop jibber-jabber like a Chatot that knows too much speech.

"You see,"

I think I'm feeling Clamperl..

"I really wanted to be ready for our battle today and I thought about it and thought about it to the point where I couldn't get a good night's sleep so in order to at least brush up on my skills I figured we would all train before the afternoon and the beach was perfect since no one really swims before sunrise and I know I'm not the best trainer but my pokemon worked so hard and then I end up losing my Shedinja in all of it and then you show up in time to watch me prove how pathetic of a trainer I am and now I-"

That was it. Everything stopped. None of my pokemon were around, the waves halted mid-motion, and there was no city on the sandy horizon nor was there a thought in my mind being processed correctly.

The only thing happening right now was Flint kissing me. A gentle hand cupped the bottom of face as soft lips caressed mine. The longer they remained, the more it seemed like it belonged, the more natural it felt for his lips to linger on mine. After the initial shock of it all, I finally relaxed and closed my eyes and went with it. I think I almost dropped Shejin from how loose and euphoric I began to feel.

Even though it was probably two more seconds, I'm going to say it was two eternities before I came back down to earth and realized there was sand and pokemon and stuff around me again. It wasn't a French kiss or anything, but still..that was…that was…that was amazing! But to hell with that, that was also…also my…

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to, um, be so err, so forward.." Flint apologized after he broke the kiss. A hand went to his mouth and he backed up a little to give me some space. I honestly didn't want to hear his damn apologies. That was the most amazing thing I could ever ask to happen to me.

We both avoided eye contact and would occasionally catch a glimpse of each other's face when the other looked away. He had a shy smile but wore a bothered expression. I did the usual thing I do whenever I'm remotely shy or embarrassed and looked down to ground, picking at pockets of sand with my feet.

So um, I guess he doesn't really care for Chatots much, huh?

The silence wore on, but it was kind of comfortable since we both were being a bit awkward. Before it dragged on too long, I broke the silence with a confession.

"You promise you won't laugh…if I tell you something else?" I still avoided his eyes by keeping them on the sand.

"Shoot for it,"

I mustered up enough courage to at least look at his chin.