StevenZ12: 2020 Update. I really did like this chapter when i first wrote it. The original ricardo from Pokemon Sage (All rights to its creator) is so far my favorite caracther in all of the game. But hey , this officially marks the start of the rewriting. Not much should change till the end of the old first badge, but you'll be the judge of that won't y'all!

Enjoy the chapter, Pokefans!

Last time on Nuevo, Legend of Quetzar:

Our favorite trio have made it to Jade city, and they seemed to take a very big liking to this city. Snow finally found what path she would pursuit during her travel in Nuevo. Sven seemed to have restocked on supplies and implied that there is more to him that meets the eye. Andre has witnessed the battle between the local gym leader and a fledgling bug catcher, and finally Snow and Andre became a little closer, and the raven haired teen offered the lovely white haired teen to help her train for the upcoming contest…

Chapter 09: A cowboy named Ricardo?

Warmth, euphoria and wonder… These are the emotions that accompanied Andre Cautemoc Aegis on his way back to the pokemon center. Snow had the talent to make his mind as slushy as jelly. He silently tiptoed back in his room in the pokemon center, trying to make heads of tails of his assertion of the white haired teenager. He did find her really cute and attractive, and loved her spunkiness and personality. He didn't want to fall however in this kind of passing love that his mom always warned him off, but Snow was like a magnet to him. Just looking into her eyes when she smiled seemed to captivate him more than the sight of his hometown at night. The faint silverish glow she had under the full moonlight made her look that more lovely to his eyes, albeit special… and such peculiarity made him wonder how can she have so much effect out of him, did he liked her? Who was she exactly?

All these questions would be answered in due time, he decided, before he let his mind drift off to the smile following her hugging him and the though of him filled him with an euphoria and a warmth that he could simply not express... It's with these happy thoughts that our main man felt the call of Cresselia

''Snow….'' He murmured before falling in a blissful sleep.

The following morning, Sven was the first to get up. Being an uncanny matinal, he enjoyed doing his exercices early in order to give all his attention to the two little young'uns when they would wake up. Having been asked to watch other them, he would definitely make sure that they blossom into fine pokemon trainers. He felt like Andre in particular had great potential, as he was able to draw out the power of his Aguade quite easily, even helping him unlock an egg move in dragon dance. Sure he had lost his subsequent first battle at the hands of the more experienced Snow, but still for a first battle, he definitely showed promise.

''These guys should finally provide me with some entertainment for this new adventure'' He said to his lizard pokemon, who simply yawned in response.

''Well Sven, I don't know about you, but I am just tired'' The poison type groaned while snapping his jaws to loosen them after his snoring concerto.

''Heck I don't know how I can ever sleep with you Snoring and jabbering Sleep talks all night'' The tall teen replied, chuckling a little as he got out of the pokemon center, gently struct by the morning breeze.

''Oh please, don't start with your crappy jokes'' Pleaded his starter as he rolled his eyes in annoyance. ''I just woke up''

''Well why are you even with me Gils?'' questioned an amused Sven, who did some stretching on the floor to get ready for his morning stroll.

''Gils?''

''Well yeah partner, I am yet to name rate you!'' Sven explained merrily, completing is round of warm ups.

''Oh Arceus…'' groaned the poison type.

''Hahaha''

The two then started to make their stroll around the town, enjoying the crisp morning air and envigorating sunlight. They had been strolling for a while when a rather loud Rumbling Sound was heard from afar. However, Sven acute hearing made his eyes go wide as the sound created felt like a stampede.. Another thing was that it was heading toward them very very fast.

''Hey Gilla, we gotta move outta the way and fast…'' Sven warned his little pokemon, who looked at him in confusion.

''Why?''

Sven simply pointed forward… ''For this...''

By the time the purple pokemon turned his head to the side, an humongous brown bull like pokemon literally ran him over, slightly leveling the ground the two sportsman were trotting just a little while ago.

Realizing what he had done, the bull rider made his pokemon come to a stop and made him turn back to face them, his Bull pokemon walking slowly toward them, snorting and grunting on his way just like a horse would do.

The trainer mounting the big pokemon then jumped down, letting Sven have a good look at the rather peculiar looking teenager.

The first striking feature of this teenager was his height. Sven could tell that he was reaching 6 foot at the very least. He also looked quite toned and bulky. His skin was a little tanned from the region's hot climate and his red, jagged hair that he kept in control with a sombrero like hat. He had a brown and orange poncho covering much of his black shirt. his black jeans were covered by Brown Cowboy pants complete with a set of cow boy boots. He had a wheat grass sticking out of his mouth, like a complete western cowboy stereotype. The Cowboy quickly went to Sven and Gilla, apology in his mind.

''I'm so'ry homies, that lad has quite a bit of a difficulty to turn left or right when it's a galloping. He's still a baby, that lad.''

Sven gaped in disbelief. ''What? You're tellin' me that this huge Tauros is a baby?''

''That's not even funny… I could have totally been trampled to death by that thing!'' Gilla muttered, still impressed by the sheer size of that ''infantile'' Tauros.

Much to his surprise, the covered teen turned to him and smirked. "What was that lizard?''

''I said, that thing is humon…wait a skitty here… YOU CAN ACTUALLY UNDERSTAND ME HUMAN?!'' The poison Lizard pokemon shouted, going from shock to stupor.
His trainer looked equally surprised. He knew that at some point, the relationship between pokemon and trainers could lead to the trainer gradually understanding his pokemon's speech and facial pattern rather easily, but he was completely baffled that this stranger understood his Gilla perfectly despite having just met him.

''My name isn't human, I am named Ricardo Montezuma Derado, but you just need to remember Ricardo hahaha.'' He presented himself before pointing to his Tauros. ''And this is my mounted pokemon, El Rojo.

''Pleased to meet small lizard and human'' The bovine pokemon bellowed, making a bow of some sort.

''Pleased to meet you!'' Sven replied while appreciating that the teen had broken the Ice.

''I'm still sorry that we ran you over like that, we were headed toward the pokemon Center because I wanted to be registered as a pokemon trainer. I though I was late so I stampeded here on my faithful Tauros.'' He explained as the Tauros, hearing it's species name turned to his trainer, before nodding and mowing some grass around as he was resting.

''Don't sweat it fella. I have taken Double-Edges from Snorlax before, This won't even leave a mark on my Rock head.'' Sven dismissed, completely unaware that he had made a terrible, terrible pun. Gilla simply shook his head, dimissing the urge to shut him up using poison jab, despite the fact that he had already stopped to talk. The brown bovine pokemon stopped eating, his jaws dropped in sheer shock. He couldn't believe that his puns were worse than his jokester of a brother back with the herd.

The tan skinned boy sweatdropped at this, but quickly shook it off. ''Anyway, I think I will leave for the pokemon Center now. I bid you a great day Sven'' He announced before getting back on his Tauros.

''Sorry again got the Rodeo mate!'' He shouted while disappearing slowly from the older teen's view, El Rojo slowly strolling now.

Sven sighed a big huff once he disappeared.' Well that was an eventful morning eh Gills?'

''You can say that again my man. I don't know if I'm more shocked that this huge Tauros was only a baby or that this human could understand me perfectly...'' The purple pokemon muttered, still looking at the direction where the two had disappeared to.

''Tell me about it mon. maybe he is just a gifted one''' Sven reasoned as the silouhette of the cowboy like trainer vanished behind the buildings

''This region is vast, and this wouldn't be the first time you came across these from what you told me'' Gilla muttered as he hopped on Sven's shoulder for transport

''I agree. Anyway trying to Slowking us around his Origin Pulses won't do us any Good. Let us get back to the center, what do you say?'' Sven asked as he turned toward the center as well.

''Deal, my paws are sore anyway.'' Agreed Gilla

The Pokemon and trainer combo soon headed back toward the pokemon Center.

Meanwhile in Jade city Pokemon Center…

Snow had been the first to wake up. A lazy, goofy smile appeared on her face as she reminisced the events of the night prior. She couldn't completely understand why she had done that. It was like an impulse had taken her and she had somehow no way of properly express her gratitude in another way. Still, she kind of enjoyed the hug, as the teen did not exactly pushed her away. Upon that realization, Snow's cheeks heated up as she tried to untangle her assessment of the Raven haired Lentimas native.

'' Am I falling too soon to him? Is that what liking a boy feels like? I mean he's cute, funny and helpful, but we haven't known each other for that long.I seem to have a lot of power over him, and he's so cute when he lose his will before my eyes hihi…'' The white haired teen giggled, a goofy smile on her face. Her eyes soon turned pensive however, other occurences plaging her mind. Like why was she a target for those ''native'' people, why did she feel so invigorated by being sorrounded by nature? Why did suddenly her eyes possessed a magnetic, almost hypnotic power over others that seemed to work especially well on boys...? She remembered her eyes to be noted as pretty by many people in the past back home, but never to the extent of what she was experiencing here in Nuevo.

''Musing all of this won't help, maybe i'll ask mom at some point if she knows anything... For now, I have a breakfast to eat, Pokemon to brush and a contest to prepare...'' She decided as she got up and woke up her still sleeping vulpix.

''Five more minutes...'' Moaned tiredly the golden furred vixen, her still sleepy voice yipping in annoyance at the source of her loss of coziness. Giving up in front of such cuteness, Snow let out a voiceless coo before leaving the fire type to her sleepy babil and went to get started for the day. After having washed herself, the unova teen put on what she called her training clothes. She tied her silvery white hair in a ponytail with a silver tie, put on a silver shirt with fluffy blue end and sky blue pants. She put a blue set of fingerless gloves and her blue sneakers. She was now all ready to start the day. She felt really pumped about all the training that she would do in order to be at least presentable in front of the judges. While she was finalizing her morning preparation, her shiny vixen finally fluttered her eyes open and let out a cute growl. She was soon followed by a low trumpet and an upbeat chirp. Alpint and Flora had woken up as well, and went to their human trainer to greet her.

'''Good morning Snow'' The fire type greeted, nuzzling her trainer's leg while the white haired trainer grinned, petting her starter pokemon, soon to be joined by her other team members who showed their affection. Snow couldn't have been any happier right now, she had the best pokemon in the whole world, she was travelling with two amazing people and she had found a path to pursue. She silently thanked all the Pokemon Gods she knew for this amazing possibility.

''Are you all ready to train for our Pokemon Contest debut?'' The teen asked, a fire visibly present in her eyes. It was easy to see how pumped she was for this and that fire seem to extend to her pokemon who all cheered loudly before she thought of running toward the training spot to start training immediately.

*Grumble Grumble*

Snow's stomach didn't seem to be totally cool with the idea of her training before having given him something to digest, and so was the stomach of all of her pokemon. She was also forgetting about that sleepyhead called Andre, who still haven't woken up at all.

''Maybe I should eat first…''

Andre woke up with his head still in the clouds. Itzatl and Peppit were still on his stomach when he did, so naturally they woke up at the same time. The cocoon of warmth created by his impromptu skinship with the white haired maiden he was travelling with wasn't completely gone as he smiled before going to the washroom, cleaning himself and his pokemon. He remembered about wanting to call his mom and his sister today, and he knew he would receive a hearful when he would. With reason, the Lentimas native shuddered

''Aww, I don't really want to live that, but what choice do I have?''' He lamented, getting his black pants and his dark shirt on. He had bought another dark blue sleeveless jacket when he had went in the city. He put on his black fingerless gloves on and looked back at his two pokemon, which jumped on each of his shoulders.

''Alright partner, let's go. I wanna eat breakfast now, I am hungry!'' complained the blue pokemon while rubbing his stomach so his trainer could get the message.

''Me too. Although I also wanna see that cute Foliat again…'' The little rabbit pokemon added, a little dreamy look on his face. This made the salt lizard pokemon's nonexistent eyebrow shoot up.

''Seriously?'' Itzatl replied. His eyes wide.

''Well, you can't deny she is right?'' Sheepishly explained the Grass/Fire type a slight blush dusting his cheeks...

''Meh, she's ok. not really my type though. Well talk about that later on man'' The salt lizard Pokemon muttered, ending the conversation as he jumped down Andre's shoulder in order to walk toward the common area in the Center.

This short exchange however had interested Andre. ''What are you guys talking about?''

''Nothing important boss!'' They both replied, frantically shaking their head in negation.

Andre just shrugged in amusement before heading toward the common area, hoping to see his friends. To his surprise, both Sven and Snow were already at a table, their breakfast ready to be devoured. Andre chuckled before going to the canteen and quickly took a boy's breakfast before going back to them. Snow had settled for a modest bowl of berries accompanied with bread and syrup and butter. Sven, having just come back from a run, ate four ham sandwitches with milk and Andre ate the most, getting all the bacon, ham and Nanab berries he could get his hands on.

Snow smiled sweetly seeing her friend eat with that much interest. She warned him about not eating too fast or he would choke. The raven haired teen actually stopped and listened to her for the first next next bites, but his hunger made him lose control again and he ate like a starving Primeape. Needless to say that he was really well dirtied afterward. Sven fought down the urge to say a bad joke with all his might, but he couldn't…

''Well Good Espeon to you Andre. I believe your food was at your liking, you dirty Garbordor…'' He mused, seeing his face tattered with crumbs and syrup.

The white haired teen couldn't hold it any longer and started to laugh at his sheepish face. Vulpix, who was looking at the group of human simply shaked her head while turning back to the pokemon group that was eating with her.

''See now why I don't approve him now? What utter lack of manners..'' The vixen pokemon sighed while taking a bite of her tamato berry.

Alpint scoffed ''Well the human likes to eat, let him eat Vixen!'' He simply quoted while baffling his bananas like it was nobody's business. He could have slowed down too, those nanabs berry wouldn't suddenly grow feets after all.

''Well I'll say, it ain't bad. When I think about the time we had to fetch our food ourselves and all, this is a great reason to scarf it down'' Gilla added, eating some pokemon chow with cheri berries, his all time favourite.

''Say what you will against Andre, he's a great trainer!'' Peppit defended, drinking some water to accompany his food.

''You think so.., I wonder if I should bring him to the underworld with me? Then we'll know where he truly stands.'' Dessoula creepily proposed while giving them a crazed grin. He was almost immediately water gunned down by an angry Aguade. ''Not on my watch pea brain!'' He growled menacingly, putting a mental note to watch the baby crow when he was around his trainer.

Before things got too heated between the overeager males, Foliat decided to diffuse the atmosphere. ''Please stop. Can't we all behave'' Flora asked, using sweet scent to calm all the pokemon down. The move was effective as Aguade's mean mug melted in content placidity, Dessoula's grin turned a bit more friendly and less like a creepy murderer from the underworld's skies... A certain Fire/Grass bunny seemed to appreciate her effort a little too much though.

''She's…amazing'' The peppit sighed in awe, the faint red dust threatening to taint his cheeks once more. This thankfully was missed by the others who were still quietly eating their breakfast as the sweet scent soothed their minds and bodies...

Back with the humans though, the trio chatted, deciding what they would do for the day.

Sven was the first to break his day plans. ''I am going to go out again today, I'll visit Forrest for a while and I'll come back near the end of the day. Have a nice day you two and try not to do anything too Togekissy won't you?'' The older teen announced, getting up, his Gilla, Dessoula and the ever so lethargic kettrufle following him…

''Stop it Sven… it ain't like that'' The white haired trainer denied forcefully, launching various furnitures to a laughing, quickly leaving Sven. The taller teen left soon after, talking about teens and their hormones.

Snow looked at Andre when he wasn't looking and smiled ''I kind of wouldn't mind if it was...'' she though, slightly blushing.

The two teen then looked at each other and quickly looked away. It seemed that things were still a little awkward between them after what had happened yesterday night. Their pokemon groaned to see the two of them act so differently around each other when they had been close to a T before. But they knew that whatever happened between humans, they had to let it run it's course, so they resumed chatting between themselves leaving the two teenagers working it out by themselves.

Andre was the first one to talk, after taking a breather to calm his grating nerves…

''I have to call my family this morning, do you want me to present you to them?'' He asked sheepishly, desesperate to break the ackwardness.

Snow blushed a little about learning about Andre's family, but was grateful for the intervention. ''Okay Andre, let's do it. If they are your family, they must be as amazing as you are…'' She added, before blushing heavily, realizing what she had just said.

''Aww shucks, I am not that amazing. Anyhow, let's go!'' Andre denied humbly, his will working on overdrive in order for him not to blush.

The two teens went then to the videophones, and Andre called home. Her mom and sister were really happy to see him again, but gave him the earful of a lifetime. This was going to hurt... if not physically, they would make sure he felt guilty for the next 20 decades... After a short while, the videophones lit up. An apprehensive Andre gulped, this was it.

They didn't dissapoint...

''You Ingrate little Grimer, How could you not call us sooner?!'' Erza roared, making the Raven haired trainer flinch in shame. He had been right. While he could clearly see that his mother was happy to see him, he wasn't getting scott free for not calling them sooner. His big sister Myriam also seemed to jump on the ''Hurt Andre'' Wagon... and quickly too!

''And you are telling me that you couldn't send me a single text you useless brother?!'' Miriam thrashed on, visibly furious. Andre could almost feel her hand breaking his back with one of those chops she had the secret of.

"I oughta have seen it coming that you'd forget about your first loves when you'd start travelling..." Erza added, theatrically shedding a few tears.

Myriam gasped at this sight. "See now you ungrateful pighead? You made mom cry. What do you have to say for yourseld huh!?" She added, a malovelent fury burning in her eyes

Even the family Tangrowth could be seen in the background, waving its vines angrily to convey its displeasure.

The poor boy was scared out of his mind, he was relieved to see them obviously well, but the smoldering fire of shame and guilt he was feeling had robbed him from any voice or excuses he had thought up. Snow, who had stayed a little further back in respect didn't really appreciate Andre being on the brink of a full on panic attack. The white haired teen stepped forward and gently put her hand on Andre's, gently forcing her fingers through the cracks of his now balled fist. She accentuated the gesture with a soft brush of her fingers inside his palm in a soothing motion. She hoped that this would work...

Andre didn't immediately registered Snow's gesture, as panicked and remorsefull as he was. However, upon feeling a gentle warmth on his right hand and feeling almost heavenly softeness soothingly caressing his palm, he glanced to the side to see...an angel?

Snow was staring encouragingly at Andre, her face litterally screaming that everything was fine. Just like usual, Snow's gentle eyes pulled him in and momentarily blocked out every sensations, every perceptions. The effect was impressive to say the least. His shoulders relaxed, his breathing softened and slowed until it had reached a relaxed stated, his traits visibly relaxed. Wordlessly, Snow nodded at Andre and the latter smiled gratefully at the teen.

On the other side of the videophone, Both female watched the whole exchange with awe. It hadn't lasted for that long, but the interaction between the two teens had brought Andre back from a panic attack to a relaxed state. They both looked at each other questioningly, wondering who was that girl.

Eventually, Andre finally regathered his courage to speak, smiling gratefully at Snow who melted a little upon seeing it. He resumed the conversation with his relative. To both girls amusement, they noted that Andre hadn't released Snow's hand.

''I am sorry girls, Tantan. I was caught up in the excitement of a new region and a lot happened, so I didn't really think about calling you…'' He explained, his form still riddled by guilt, but feeling much calmer in comparison.

Snow smiled at the interaction. Andre was feeling much better and could now answer. ''His hand is so warm...'' She absentmindedly thought as she kept brushing her fingers inside his palm, the motion calming her own nerves somehow.

Speaking of interactions, the two Aegis women didn't miss how the two teens seemed close. They smiled. That toothy, smug, carnivorous smile that could make a Sharpedo whimper and flee in terror was here... Andre audibly gulped

''Here goes...'' He said. Despite the relaxing touch and presence of Snow next to him, he couldn't help but dread the barrage that he was about to face.

Erza eagerly threw the first shot '' Well well aren't you becoming confident you little Squirtle?'' The beautiful mother playfully whispered to the teen

His elder sister quickly added some layers to the assault. ''It must be because of that lovely white haired angel over there. What is your name pretty face?'' Miriam asked, locking eyes with Snow, who looked slightly unsettled by her.

Not exactly expecting to be included in the conversation, Snow flinched in surprise, but quickly recovered. ''My name is Snow's Nightshade and I am Andre's….'' She started only to be cut by the older teen

''…Girlfriend. We get it…moving on… have you two kissed yet?'' She asked, her eyes hungry for details.

''I am not his girlfr...'' She meekly replied, her face turning the color of a tamato real quick.

Erza kept it coming however, furthering her embarassement; ''Looking at how you are blushing while denying it removes all the credibility in your statement…'' Erza mused, doing her best not to laugh. Coveting an appreciative stare at her son, the beautiful mother continued; ''I must say Andre you, are quite lucky to have scored such a cute girl. I don't mind what you do with her, but if she ends up 'you know' well take care of …'' She said to her son, who was now beet red..

Andre felt like dissapearing underground and never come back up. ''Oh my Arceus Mom!, she's just my friend!''

Erza either missed it entirely or feigned to . ''Anyway hotstuff, have fun out there, I won't keep you away from your silver haired maiden too much longer. Have fun and call back soon. We love you very much!'' Her mom said while Myriam blew him some kisses.

Andre teared up a little and replied an adorable I love you too that melted the heart of everyone present. He was about to hang up when Myriam jumped in front of the camera, surely for some heartfelt parting words...

That was not knowing Myriam Cauthemoc Aegis...

''Oh and one last thing…for Arceus's sake, don't stay a virgin for too long, you are the only one left now'' She softly added, making Andre's eyes become as wide as saucers

''WHAT DO YOU MEAN! MYRIAM YOU!?'' Andre started. Man didn't get far however...

*Click* Gone she was...

Andre slumped to the side completely lethargic.

''What's wrong Andre?'' Snow asked, concerned by the state of her friend.

'You don't want to know, trust me…'' the Raven haired boy replied, shaking his head.

Snow was wondering what could have been that bad when she realized that Andre was still holding her hand.

''Hum...Andre?'' She meekly called, looking away.

''Yeah?''

''Not that I dislike it...but could you let go?'' She softly asked, blushing slightly.

Andre's eyes widened in realization and he untangled his fingers with the white haired maiden. ''Why do I feel so reluctant though?'' He thought as a quick wave of frustration passed over him. Thankfully, Snow missed it.

After a few moment of more ackward silence, the Raven Haired teen remembered that they had plans for the day.

''Now shall we start this training?'' He asked as he returned his Pokemons and ajusted his cap.

Snow competitively grinned when she heard that. ''I thought you'd never ask!''

The two teenagers enthusiastically ran to the training grounds. The camp was on!

''Come on out everyone!'' They both said, releasing all their pokemon.

In a dazzling flash of light Aguade, Peppit, Vixen, Flora and Alpint made their appeareances and gave their distinctive battle cries. Then they looked at Snow and Andre, waiting for the reason they had been brought out.

''I guess that you wonder why you are here? We're going to start working for the upcoming pokemon contest.

All of the pokemon cheered loudly, all ready to work at it" Andre then explained his own pokemon that they would help Snow and her team to be ready for the contest.

Aguade and Peppit nodded. Peppit looked excited since it meant that he could spend some time with Flora.

Snow then asked to Andre what he knew about Pokemon Contests, in order to give her some ideas.
Andre smiled as he was quite knowledgeable about it, since he had read a lot about all the different Pokemon training circuit before coming to the Nuevo Region. He didn't really think there would be any pokemon Contest here in Nuevo, but he sure was glad there were.

''Well for starters, in a Pokemon Contest, you have to remember something very important. The star of the show is your Pokemon. You have to present your pokemon in the best way possible. It's easy to get overconfident and overeager and add sorts flashy effects that looks good to the eye but hide your pokemon from view, it's all about balance.''He explained…before stopping himself, looking at the White haired feverishly noting what he was saying in a small calepin.

''Why did you stop Sleepyhead?'' Snow asked when she realized that Andre wasn't talking anymore.

Andre sheepishly passed a hand in his hair…''I though I was going too fast for you… I still want you to understand the concepts"

Smiled smiled at him, making him blush. ''I'm fine, please continue.'' She reassured him. The poor Raven haired teen's heart skipped a beat loolking at that adorable smile. ''Arceus protect my poor soul from that smile, please...'' Andre thought as he resumed his explanations. She truly was holding her nickname up...

All morning they worked with Foliat and Vulpix in order to raise their speed and accuracy, since that for the simple routine they would practice, they need to be really accurate on where they would shoot their attacks. Andre used Peppit's Nature Power to create a pentagram like wooden target in order for Vulpix's incinerate and Foliat's absorb could reach all five at the same time… Something that took awhile and that resulted in many burned patches of grass. Thankfully, Aguade was there to put out the fire. Around noon, their attack power and accuracy were much better than before…and it also caused Foliat to learn a new move, Grass Pledge. At noon, they all took a break and Andre gentlemanly got Snow a cold lemonade and a towel.

''I am really impressed by your progress Snow you know?'' Andre praised the Pale skinned teen… ''I'd almost think that you are a natural at this''

Snow couldn't help but to feel her cheeks burn at being praised by him…''Thanks Andre, but my pokemon are the one who worked hard…not me." She said, flushing brightly…

''Hahaha I know , I do not remove any of their merits. They definitely are hardworking." Andre replied, petting Foliat then slowly petting Vulpix. The lady like canine tried to resist, as she was still trying to show that she wasn't approving of Andre… however, the vixen couldn't help but melt to the boy's touch.

''…..I am not supposed to approve you yet…but...by Arceus...how did you find that spot...?'' The pokemon yipped in content, going as far as getting on Andre's lap to enjoy more of his petting. Aguade, slightly jealous, stomped to Andre and gentlemanly put Vulpix down from his trainer's lap and climbed in her place, earning himself a pat in the head as he requested to be petted. Snow giggled to the sound of the salt lizard pokemon being scratched and pe++tted…Andre then proceeded to massage all Snow's and his own pokemon in order to help them recover from their excertion, under the loving gaze of Snow, who found Andre more dependable by the second.

''Where did you learn to massage your pokemon?'' The white haired teen asked, moving a little closer to observe Andre finishing a massage on Peppit.

''My mom showed me how to do it in the week before I left. She told me pokemon Centers wouldn't always be there to heal the pokemon during my travels, so I had to learn how to at least apply the first aid to pokemon and to take care of them to maintain their health.'' Andre explained as the tiny rabbit pokemon nuzzled him in thankfulness.

Snow sighed happily. It felt rather heartwarming to see him work. ''You are indeed amazing Andre..'' Snow thought as she leaned on Andre, her cheek pressed on the raven haired trainer's shoulder. The contact almost made Andre jump, but somehow, he didn't mind as much this time. If anything, Snow's touch calmed him deeply. The two teens sat down next to each other to catch a break, their hands once again intertwined. However, both were far too relaxed to actually care about it as much as they would otherwise. Neither talked, simply enjoying each other's presence. The Pokemon took a leaf out of their trainer's page and started to relax as well. Vulpix trotted to Snow, who softly petted her head, her eyes closed. She hadn't felt this peaceful in a long time. The wind was blowing softly, the rustling of the nearby tress really conveying a calming atmosphere. Andre couldn't help but machinaly play in Snow's hair, further calming the white haired teen down until she was almost drowsing under his touch.

''What are you doing to me...Snow Nightshade?'' Andre pondered as the lentimas Native closed his own eyes.

''I am glad I have met you Andre…'' Snow softly muttered, half asleep…

Andre smiled at her admission. He thought about how funny there first interaction was, with Andre catching her from falling on the plane to Nuevo, how worried he was when she was kidnapped by the native and the relief he felt when she was found, how lovely she looked when she hugged him last night. This warm, tender feeling was different from the one his family expressed it and he both welcomed it and felt disoriented by it.

''Me too, I am glad and grateful, Cualtzin Iztaca...'' The lentimas native whispered back, squeezing Snow's hands a little tighter.

The white haired maiden felt a warm shiver take hold of her body, feeling with an undescriptive emotion. She didn't understand what Andre had said exactly, but the tone of which he had said it somehow filled her with happiness.

The teen wiped a single tear of joy and was about to reply when fate decided to play trouble maker...

A terrible explosion was heard in the distance and a huge missile full of ink was arriving toward them at high speeds

Needless to say that this occurance jolted the both of them awake.

''Aguade, Water Gun! Peppit launch Nature Power to deflect the attack!'' Andre Commanded as he jumped on his feet, alert and honestly a little annoyed. Snow quickly followed, a bit saddened inside about the way that what was an ideal moment broken by this impromptu distraction. She was the first to react to the threat however...

''Foliat, set up light screen!''. Snow ordered to her grass pokemon.

''Light Screen, freshly learned and already useful!'' Foliat chirped. not exactly pleased about the rude awakening.

The light protection appeared around all members and it wasn't a minute too soon as the projectile exploded all around them.

A tall tan skinned teenager came running, followed by a red Octopus like Pokemon that looked pissed as f*** about missing his attack. The teen than flicked his hair to get the sweat out of it and sighed in aggravation... ''Another misfire Octillery huh?'' He spat with disdain as his red octopus pokemon clicked in frustration.

The casual way he seemed to say it didn't sit well with Andre. After all, that guy just had destroyed a perfect moment between him and his friend.

''Hey you with the dumb Cowboy Hat!'' Andre shouted angrily as he took a few steps forward.

The said Cowboy turned to face him and waved disinterestingly… ''What is it lad?'' He inquired, trying not to chuckle at the raven haired's attempt to look tough.

''You could at least apologize, you almost got us all drenched in ink and You destroyed our training ground!'' Andre angrily spat, aggression seeping from his voice. It actually kind of scared the cowboy. This one, he felt, could have the bite to match his bark.

''Okay Okay, I am sorry, Shotgun here, my Octillery, didn't master Octazooka yet. He can't aim or control its power properly. No need to glare at me like a pissed Arcanine mate.'' The cowboy answered, looking at Andre with a conciliant, but arrogant look.

Snow had a good look at this stranger, and somehow felt that something was going on with him, yet she couldn't really phantom what it was. ''This will be another question for another time...'' She thought sagely. Letting it Go, she still walked next to Andre and asked him why were that Octazooka attack what so big and uncontrolled?

The teen looked at her with interest… ''Well what a cutie, that lad is very lucky to have her.''He thought a bit lecherously. The cowboy still humored her inquiry with an answer. ''My Octillery and I were practicing for the upcoming pokemon Contest. That's all you need to know. Now...Snow was it?'' He explained, while making one step toward Snow, making Andre tense up.

''Yes?''

''... How about I show you around the city instead?'' He offered, a very weird smile creeping on his face…

This was the last straw for Andre. ''Itzatl, Water Gun!'' The raven haired teen commanded. Itzatl, whom the Cowboy less than gentemanly attitude had slighly ticked of, was happy to oblige.

The cowboy's hat was blasted off his feet, the jet soaking his face a little. The tan cowboy looked back at Andre. His eyes were a bit darkened and a scowl was now apparent on his face. ''You stay away from her, Tauros breath!'' The teenager growled, stepping in front of Snow protectively. He didn't exactly know why, but he had felt really annoyed at the Cowboy's proposition. And that creepy smile of his? Nothing gave him more red flags that this. Also this happening so soon after Snow had been kidnapped? Not on his watch, and not while he was alive.

The Teenager laughed at his bravado. '' You've got guts kiddo, I'll give you that. But do you think you have what it takes to take on the great Ricardo, the crushing Cowboy?' He asked while holding a pokeball.

''Damn right I have it… I will show you not to mess with me and my friend!'' Andre angrily shouted, Peppit Stepping Forward.

The cowboy smiled meanly ''Hmm, feisty are you? Well Let me humiliate you in front of your little girlfriend here…'' He started. Andre full on snarled, way too worked up to even deny his opponent's affirmation.

The were about to launch their pokemon when a veil of White entered Andre's vision.

Somewhere around the battlefield, a small figure was observing the interaction with the two humans with a squeal of delight. The tension, the drama unfolding had its small figure do loop de loops. It looked at both Andre and Snow, then vanished out of the place, deciding to watch the events from another spot.

Snow stepped in front of Andre and looked at him appreciatively. ''Thanks Andre, I know you mean well, but I also need to fight my own battles. I am not some damsel in distress. Let me handle this! I am going to show this creep...'' She started as her warm silver eyes turned a bit fierce and an unnatural wind started to spiral around her, swaying her beautiful white hair up and down as if she was transforming into a phantasmic goddess of battle. The vision was both beautiful and terrifying. ''...How terrifying Snow Nightshade can be!'' She finished as her pokemon came to her and recalled them in order to be called upon battle.

The cowboy smiled excitedly, trying his damn best not to actually shiver at Snow's display. ''We will see if you have what it takes to take me, Ricardo Cortés, out of the running.

''No more words need to be said Ricardo! Let's Go Alpint'. She said as the pine tree pokemon was launched from his poke ball. ''You will get handled!'' She predicted competitively

''Brave words from a pretty face. Let's go! Shotgun'' Ricardo called, his octillery taking center, his tentacles raised and ready to battle

The octillery and Alpint faced each other, circled each other, and soon enough

''Octillery, launch Octazooka up so it falls onto the battlefield.

''Alpint counter with Grassy Terrain'' Snow countered immediately, not looking to see what could an oil field could have done longer in the battle.

The octopus pokemon covered the field with oil, but Alpint patiently waited for Octillery to stop the attack before using grassy terrain and erasing all effect from the attempted oil field.

''Not bad, I'll say'' Ricardo said, visibly impressed. He didn't let up however. ''Now Octillery let's keep this up using Rock Blast, rapid fire version!''

The Octopus pokemon then started to launch several sharp, rocky projectilse toward the Elephant Pokemon. They were noticeably smaller and much faster, upsetting the big pokemon who couldn't maneuver around the attack, forcing him Painfully endure the avalanche of little pellets.

Snow frowned at this, but she was glad that she had set up grassy terrain, as the Pine Tree pokemon could slowly recover his stamina from the nutrients contained in the ground. Seeing that the games had stayed there long enough, she decided to finish the round right there.

''Alpint, let's get this done! Run toward that octopus while using Bullet Seed but aim at his mouth hole!'' She commanded, thrusting her hands forward.

Ricardo almost had to hold back a yawn. ''I see what you're trying to do, but you think i'd let you? I ain't that nice, wild doe. Octillery, Counter with your own Bullet Seed." He instructed as he trust his hand forward.

The two attacks met in a stalemate…but soon Alpint bullet Seed started to push back the one of the octopus back, much to the shock of the disillusioned Ricardo who couldn't believe that his prized Shotgun was actually losing to an Alpint…

Snow allowed a smug smile to creep on his face. ''It's actually simple, you used pullet seed to counter mine, but Bullet Seed is a grass type move first and foremost, which means that my Alpint's is naturally stronger anyway. Furthermore, Under Grassy terrain, my grass type moves are much strong, leaving that Octopus to be completely outmatched…'' She explained at the same time the Jet pokemon's resistance was broken and was subsequently hit by several seeds.
Snow decided to deliver the final blow…

''Check mate! Alpint use Razor Leaf and finish him!" Snow confidently commended, the heat of the battle progressively taking her over.

The conifer Pokemon trumpetted triumphally before launching several razor shaped leaves at Octillery who recoiled in pain before slumping over, swirls having replaced his eyes.

Ricardo recalled his pokemon. ''A Job well done indeed, cutie.'' The creepy Smile returned, and it soon turned into a very cruel one. ''...However, now you will meet your Doom. Cheap Shot!'' He commanded to seemingly no one in particular.

''Huh?'' Snow asked, her face riddle by confusion.

As disturbing as it sounds, Ricardo's shadow stretched and something creepy jumped out before firing a black bullet like arrow at Alpint who cried in extreme pain before being sourrounded by a Dark energy. Despite being under grassy terrain's effect, having his defense raised and having naturally high defenses and stamina, The conifer Pokemon was Knocked Out instantly.

''What just happened?'' Snow questioned, running toward her fallen Alpint...

''You blinked, you worthless porcelain doll'' Ricardo laughed darkly, not even caring about how hurt Alpint was at that moment.

''You heartless Jerk… you could at least be sensible'' Andre angrily voiced his anger at the Cowboy, who shrugged. ''She can quit if she can't handle it mate!'' He added, giving no further attention to Andre.

''No matter what I will still win this, Flora I am counting on you!'' Snow said, having recalled her fallen grass type.

Ricardo just laughed once more. ''A Foliat? Really? Surely you something better? whatever you try won't work. I am done playing games with you! Cheap shot, double blast!'' He commanded.

Just like that, before the Foliat even had the chance to move, she was shot down by two dark energy bullets that exploded on contact and caused the flying type a lot of pain before severing her consciousness.

At this point, Snow was no longer either smug nor confident. Doubts were starting to creep in her mind. She was already starting to experience shame for standing up for herself, saying to her friend that she would be fine and now having her pokemon being used for target practice by an unseen entity. The Cowboy's taunting didn't make it any easier.

''You are just weak Snow, I can't believe I even found you cute at all. You might be pretty and say that you aren't a damsel in distress, but you still got the same strength as one." The Brown wearing Teen venomously insulted the teen, whose heart almost shattered.

Not wanting to hear any of this anymore, Andre Shot toward the teen, with the clear intention of permanently shutting him up, only to be stop dead in his track by a strange Ghostly figure who looked like a ghost wearing a poncho and a Sombrero…with his Gun like finger pointed at Andre's head.

Ricardo, smiling darkly whistled while lowering his hat to hide his eyes. The ghostly figure doing the same.

''Meet my partner, Cortés the Somberado'''

To be continued

StevenZX12: 2020 Update: Goddamn, 3 days of editing for this one. But i am kind of satisfied on how this one turned out. Snow wants to stand up for herself, which is admirable, but this...ghost is sniping her Pokemon down like they were the ducks in Duck Hunt. Ricardo is a douchebag...Andre can't handle Snow being teased...also what the fuck is this small entity watching the battle? We will discover all that in the next chapters, stay tuned y'all and stay safe.