BossCar
Pokémon Trainer
- Pronouns
- He/His
Chapter 21: Just The Way You Are
Behold, the ferocious Salamence as it stomps around in the backyard of a Victorian home, terrorizes several large squeaky toys in process. Observe the clever methods the dragon uses to prevent escape, such as intentionally helping the squeaky toys escape by tossing them around. Naturally, Salamence has to throw the squeaky toys at other squeaky toys. Are you afraid of this mighty Pokémon yet? Does the cry of the Sunkern toy make you shudder?
Salamence is now engaging in squeaky toy bowling by rolling his favorite, the Voltorb toy. Don't try this at home, for it takes a very skilled Salamence to engage in such behavior. Success, he knocked all of the other squeaky toys down! He's the mightiest warrior of them all, he can't wait to be the king of all dragons! And he doesn't even need to wear an oversized Salamence costume like he did as a Bagon! Luxray, come join him!
Luxray scoffs at Salamence's foolish request, making Salamence laugh. But Salamence shouldn't be laughing. He's a proud feline, not some silly kitty. He broods instead of trying to beat up squeaky toys, but he won't deny that Salamence looks like he's having fun. Typhlosion has joined Salamence. Perhaps he should-no. Salamence can do it because he's the king of flying puppies. He cannot because he's the king of the edgelord kitties.
Gardevoir says he's got bigger problems but what does that mean? Fine, he'll check the table. Blah blah blah blah, everybody's talking too much. Why are Gardevoir, Golisopod, and Gengar laughing? Nothing funny is going on, so stop laughing.
Huh?
On the table…is that the…oh no!
The table has the forbidden kitten photos on it! Those were supposed to be hidden, how did they end up on the table?! Worse, it's the photos of kid Valen feeding him with a baby milk bottle! The horror, the absolute horror!
…Wait, photos with Valen aren't forbidden-no! No no no no no! He's a proud and edgy Luxray, his cute and cuddly Shinx days are long over, and even the squeaky toy photos are here?! Belly rub photos too?!
Crawling in his fur, his pride will never heal!
Why is it always him, why is this even real?!
Alas, poor Luxray. He walks a broody road, a road with many false assumptions. He's obviously not a kitty but he's alone on this road. He walks alone, he broods alone. He's also too flustered to realize it was Gardevoir and Golisopod who put the photos there. None of the new humans in Valen's life have seen it.
Not yet.
Suddenly, a lovely piece of classical music enters from the left neighbor's backyard. The elderly man who owns the house, a retired police officer, waves at the Pokémon as he relaxes. It's a family gathering, and the two youngest grandkids are running to their mom to tell her about the large backyard cool with a Salamence next door. They remind Luxray of when Valen was a little kid, his reaction to seeing dragons was the same.
Salamence is more focused on the harmonic melody. He'll never forget this piece, for it signifies freedom and victory. He's no stranger to doubt—evolution into his final form and the dream of flight felt out of reach. This Beethoven human really did give him an ode to joy, finding the strength he needed to push forward. Most importantly, he was able to make Valen's own dream of having a Salamence come true.
If he could speak to his trainer directly, Salamence would admit that this piece played in his head after he finally evolved from Shelgon. He would also tell Valen that he's the best Pokémon Trainer the team could've asked for.
A beautiful, dramatic melody fills up the master bedroom and protrudes into the hallway. It's the first movement of Beethoven's legendary Ninth Symphony, a universal favorite among the Pokémon. It's also how Valen discovered classical music as a kid, and it made him imagine himself riding atop a mighty Salamence. Was he a superhero in those daydreams? Sometimes, but he was mostly a flamboyant trainer. In a good way, that is.
While he was growing up alongside a cute little Shinx, Valen would dream about having a Salamence of his own. History outside of the arts also played a huge role in his desire for a Salamence, but history hasn't always been kind to people and Pokémon. His parents made sure he knew that from an early age, and he's thankful for it.
For a glimpse into the darker side of history, consider what he's reading at the moment:
March, 1415. Agincourt, northern Kalos. Hundreds of Pokémon engaged in the largest and most violent Pokémon battle in history. Sword duels by trainers in gleaming armor who refused to accept defeat due to pride. Arrows flew because the trainers refused to allow their Pokémon to fight alone. Galarian forces won the battle, but how can he consider it a victory when hundreds of trainers had to bury their Pokémon?
That's how a popular non-fiction book on the infamous battle begins, and that's what Valen has chosen to contemplate about. But even when he considers the element of mob mentality, even though he knows the behavior of the Pokémon, he doesn't understand it. Why did the Pokémon fight even more viciously than their trainers? Why throw their lived away for victory? In the end, was it truly worth it?
"To think it all started with Mordred V's desire to elevate Galarian trainers," Valen remarks, his fingers rubbing against the pages as he flips to the next one. "I swear, Kyogre and Groudon got along better than Galar and Kalos—warfare was already abolished in the Mediterranean regions."
These trainers were hardened soldiers—many of the best trainers in medieval times were knights. But even they sobbed at the sight of fallen Pokémon. Many of the Galarians abandoned Pokémon training upon returning home. Arcanine, Corviknight, Luxray, Flygon, many popular choices among trainers today were common in warfare. He can hardly imagine the rough upbringing and life of a Pokémon specifically trained for ground, aerial, even black ops warfare. Even if they survived and retired, could they truly fit in with other Pokémon?
What about their trainers, how did they go into military conflicts knowing that both of them might not make it? He's asked this question to family members who served, albeit armies became purely for defensive and humanitarian purposes as warfare decreased. The closest today would be the fact that the military in Calvana and other regions frequently fights Pokémon Hunters in barren areas.
Valen's Luxray snaps him out of his train of thought by nudging his left leg. Luxray receives pets in return. He locks eyes with Luxray, the purring is classical music to his ears. This edgelord is a big kitty at heart, and he wouldn't have it any other way. And his Luxray gets to live life to the fullest, a life free of senseless war and tragedy. Let him be an edgelord if he wants to, for he has the freedom to decide between being a silly kitty and a broody kitty.
Valen grabs the Chingling bell toy he keeps nearby and dangles it above Luxray. No hesitation is present in Luxray's decision as he repeatedly tries to nibble and smack the toy. This toy is more of a friendly rival, as opposed to the evil red light. Perhaps two red lights should appear again next time.
"…I forgot to figure out a contest performance in advance." Valen smacks his forehead. "Man, it feels like I always lose track of time when I go this deep into thinking."
Luxray helps by gently pulling the bell toy out of his hand, and he switches to a book on Romanticism art. He has his next performance figured out, but he needs and wants to get a head start for the next contest. He opens to a random page and is greeted by one of Turner's landscapes. This vibrant painting of the legendary Faraway Island has a Mew frolicking about in the grass. He'd like to have Gardevoir conjure up a vibrant green scene like this one, but there are many great landscapes to select for inspiration.
Realizing that Luxray's still here, Valen pats his head. Valen also realizes that Hilda's right behind him. Her energy's enough to deduce her presence from a mile away, so when did she enter the master bedroom? And what is new about her accessories? The gold earrings of a proud avian, of course.
"Thanks for the Braviary earrings." Hilda kisses him on the lips. "You didn't have to-"
"Yes, I did." Valen crosses his arms and grins. "Got a problem with that?"
"Nope." Hilda titters, her left hand hovering over her grin. "No matter what I do, I want to be with you.~" She winks, then yanks him off the bed. "You know that you're my boo, I'm always there for you.~" She tilts her head towards two newly framed photos. "And you didn't notice these yet."
One photograph is of the four massive portrait busts carved into Mount Blackstone, which is located in the rugged landscape of northeastern Apisi. Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo are the depicted subjects, for they are very significant in the native population's lore.
Another photograph has been framed next to the Mount Blackstone one. It's a selfie that she took while visiting the Al-Hilāi region. Why did she want this one framed? Hehe, it's because the Roaring Moon and Sandy Shocks reliefs at the ancient village of Göbekli Tepe lie in the distance.
Valen's about to reach for his laptop and add ideas based on these two photographs, but he stops when he remembers that document is already four pages long. Even though he just discovered the daily dilemma of a creative writer, he just shrugs and adds the ideas to his list.
Hilda rockets up but loses her balance before words can come out of her mouth. He wraps his arms around her midsection but she still ends up tumbling into the sofa with him. At least he didn't drop his book.
"Aieeeee, I'm such a klutz!" Hilda's face reddens and she shuts her eyes. "I have more energy than I can control at times!"
"You don't say?" Valen would prefer not being squeezed in-between Hilda and the sofa. "I feel like one of Salamence and Typhlosion's old squeaky toys."
It's difficult to tell whether Hilda's being playful or if she was actually a klutz. Regardless, give him Hilda falling into him on purpose over Hilda not enjoying herself any day, week, and month. It's crazy to think that she would forget time to have fun, but she's even forgotten to watch Eevee Rangers in the past. She's gotten much better at dealing with pressure over the years, and he's proud of her for that.
"Heeeeey, wake up!" Hilda thwacks him with a rolled up poster. "Rise and shine!"
"Nah, I'm feeling lazy." He wants to know where the poster came from. "Goodnight."
Hilda stands up and places the Eevee Rangers poster on the walnut table with four legs shaped like Yanmega. She pretends to trip and fall backwards, ensuring that Valen catches her halfway. She titters, wrapping her arms around his neck.
"You just had to make me look silly, didn't you?" He plays around with her brown hair. "You did this even when were just friends."
"Hehe, it always works!" she winks. "And I beat Rosa to the punch!"
"Indeed, you did. But you won't always be so lucky."
Hilda's Umbreon sees that Valen's Luxray is also here, and her eyes sparkle with excitement. She stands on her hind legs and does the same thing as her trainer, only to fall onto Luxray's back and sending them both tumbling onto the floor. For better or for worse, Valen's Gardevoir managed to catch it on camera.
"You know, I finally realized why I can't make up my mind." Hilda closes her eyes and laughs. "It's such a silly thing."
"You mean about stepping away from the BW Agency?"
"Yeah, wasn't the park and Battle Frontier idea because that was always a longshot." Hilda cups Valen's face. "Maybe it's because the agency brought a sweetheart into my life."
"…Heh, or course this would happen." Valen plays with her hair. "I'm just that awesome."
"You helped to make my success a reality and I still want to help you and the others." Hilda kisses him on the lips. "More importantly, Rosa and I couldn't have asked for a better boyfriend."
"Last I checked, you two are better." Valen leans back and shrugs. "Objective fact."
"No." Hilda bops his forehead. "You're better."
"Take that back." Valen tries to give her a noogie but she blocks it. "Don't make me come over there."
"I told you it was a silly thing." Hilda closes her eyes and tumbles into his arms again. "I'm struggling on whether to step away because I love you so much, not to mention it led me to my closest friends."
"I considered you a friend first," Valen teases, playing with her hair again. "And I love you just the way you are."
"Hehe, to think we were agent and client at first."
"What's the plan now?"
"Well, I've already relinquished management for a reason." Hilda titters and stands up. She twirls to face him, her hands folded in front of her right shoulder. "You know I can't sit in an office all day."
"But are you free right now?~" Valen's tone is smooth and melodic. "Can we hug right now?~"
"Don't you know that you're my man!?~" Hilda backs up in a dancing motion, then she spins around to embrace Valen. "You better understand.~"
Maybe she should take Lisia up on that offer, Hilda thinks as she kisses Valen. She can be her own manager, just like Lisia. For now, she'll kiss the guy who managed to claim her heart. The world around them has taken a backseat for a reason.
Alas, their moment is interrupted by the catchy instrument booming from a radio in the backyard. Both know the song, they've heard Curtis' smooth, country accent on this rap/R&B dancing banger everywhere they go.
"I'm cruising with Sylveon, supercar in the sunshine. We're enjoying the summertime, I'm looking for my future wife. I just wanna cuddle up, give a girl love and trust. Baby you deserve a real one, not someone that's one and done.~"
They share a glance and peek out of the large, rectangular windows just as the catchy hook finishes and Guzma's rap verse plays. Two of Team Skull's original members, Menace Man and Party Boi, show up later on this joint too. He might be a dork, but Team Skull's Valen doesn't completely live under a Boldore.
His big bad Salamence is dancing with Rosa's Milotic, she's weaving her body up and down while Salamence slides from left to right. It's almost exactly how Rosa and him have danced at parties before. Rosa's Hydreigon does his usual happy dance, but all the Pokémon are jamming to this summertime tune in this impromptu backyard party. Except for Luxray and Umbreon, they've been cuddling in this room.
Hilda's Garchomp, Beartic, and Emboar perform the associated dance with his Golisopod, swaying like the ocean's waves. They make a driving motion and jump one step left, then one step right. Jump back the same way, slide from side to side. His Gengar tries to do it too, but falls flat onto the grass.
"Gengar could use some dance lessons." Valen begins to record this for Rosa. "Maybe Salamence can assist him."
"Hehe, they're all so adorable." Hilda jumps, her hands folded again. "They always try to take after us."
Are the neighbors disturbed by any of this? Nope, the couple to the right even got their phone cameras out. The whole block is used to these random parties thrown by their Pokémon, and they've always been chill about it.
Two famous books on architecture by historic architects, one from Ancient Siscia and one from the Ragulian Renaissance. Add in the painting guidelines found in the notebooks of a Renaissance polymath. Consulting them is the norm for Rosa when practicing her craft, and she makes quick sketches of architectural features and human figures based on what she sees. Overlooking her is a self-portrait of Raphael, the legendary artist who lived centuries ago but still inspires her. Other painting prints surround her, making her studio a true love letter to painting.
She's in her painting studio, far away from the canvases and brushes. Valen's planning for a future contest right now, but she's using the books he has acquired over the years is an extension of unyielding love and appreciation for him. It's why she uses his copy of Leonardo's notes instead of her own. She also loves to consult the works of those who came centuries before, basking in the wisdom that is still read to this day.
She grabs her pencil and draws more buildings for a sketch that she's already started. She's been noticing prints of her landscapes sell out fast, so she's trying her hand at a famous city. Eat your heart out, Canaletto. No disrespect intended, Canaletto's the landscape GOAT in her book.
Gengar appears to greet her, then vanishes again. He flops down on his back, his grin dropping open upon hearing giggling. Her smile widens when she feels pats from the goofy ghost's trainer shoulder. Only he can warm her up through such a common gesture.
"Take your time, I'll wait until you're ready to give true love a try."
"We aren't eighteen anymore, sweetie." Rosa giggles and blows a kiss. "We're in our twenties."
"Eh, it wasn't that long ago."
"Silly boy, did you miss me already?"
"Obviously, that's why I came to check up on the modern world's cutest artist." Valen kisses the top of her head, then he looks at her sheet. "Looks like you're practicing to construct a city landscape."
"W-Woah, you figured that out with one glance?!" Rosa leans back, her arms bent horizontally at her sides. "You can't use Mind Reader on Roooosa like that, it'll ruin the surprise!"
"Rosa, Basilica dei Bilanciatori is sketched out in the center of your layout sheet." Valen points to his book on the famous structure. "And I can tell what you have mind by what you pull from the shelves."
"Oh you silly boy, can't you see that I was teasing?" Rosa giggles and clasps her hands. "I knew you'd get it right."
"Maybe I knew that, maybe I didn't." Valen exchanges a hug with Rosa, then pulls up a chair. "Let's see what you've got."
Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini are just three of the names associated with Siscia City's most iconic landmark, right up there with The Pokémon Colosseum from ancient times. The massive structure is dedicated to Xerneas, Yveltal, Zygarde and the balance of the planet that they are in charge of maintaining.
The famous building is the centerpiece of this sketch, the finished painting will likely resemble the city landscapes of eighteenth century painters from Altomare City. Modern skyscrapers and other historical buildings loom in the distance, bringing together the past and the present.
"I even added a few old cars cuz I know you like really sleek looking old cars!"
It requires a keen eye to see, but there are indeed flamboyant and elegant cars from the 1930s, plus several grand tourers from the 1950s and 1960s. Lot of pedestrians going about their business too, they range from traffic cops to tourists.
He can also see a glimpse of Rosa's sketch of Crystalline Town, a small community in barren eastern Calvana that's far from the constant movement of city life. Knowing her, there's probably about ten more small town sketches behind it.
"Tee-hee, I almost forgot!" Rosa grabs her sketchbook and shows Valen her lavish drawings of various rooms. "Hilda and I want to make the interior more fancy, like super duper fancy!" She clasps her hands again. "Kalosian Rococo fancy!"
"A Gothic Revival house with a Kalosian Rococo interior?" Valen rests his right index finger on his chin. "Interesting."
"Yeeeep, but we want to keep the walls and floor as is to preserve the historical value!" Rosa forms a peace sign. "Can't change everything!"
Valen chuckles. "One thing at a time, but I like the way you two think," he says. "I've been thinking of swapping out the dining tables and chair."
"Woah, we have telepathic thinking!"
"It would seem so." Valen closes his eyes and rubs Rosa's head. "Remember that I love you just the way you are.~"
Rosa catches him sneaking his phone into her line of sight. Good timing, she missed seeing the backyard Pokémon party.
Within the room he uses to chill and brood in, Valen's Luxray is locked in a staring contest with his trainer's book on Holbein, the famous court painter of King Mordred VIII. In the photo section, there is one painting that still sparks Luxray's imagination. A royal portrait of a fellow Luxray must be examined with great admiration.
Valen had told him this story many times, for it was his favorite bedtime story as a Shinx. This human, Maximillian Tregonwell, was knighted after his victory over an undefeated Paldean trainer in a Pokémon battle. The king wasn't too fond of that trainer, for he had a foul mouth and far too much pride. The king even knighted the Luxray and Absol that clinched the win.
Why can't he be knighted too? It would disprove that barring those ridiculous kitty instincts, his kitty days are long gone. Call him Sir Luxalot, edgelord extraordinaire and- RED LIGHT! Ahem, a noble kitty shall not allow such a scoundrel to annoy him-RED LIGHT! Perhaps he should ask Rosa to paint—GO AWAY RED LIGHT!
He chases the red light out of the room and into the master bedroom. Hiss, he is angry. So angry! He's about to unleash his rage and-he caught it! HE CAUGHT THE RED LIGHT!
"As a Pokémon who's apparently too edgy for playtime, you sure do love to play."
Luxray looks back at his trainer and smirks. He dislikes his kitty instincts, but he can let it slide if it makes his trainer happy. He heads downstairs to eat some cheese puffs, hoping Valen figures out his that contest performance soon. He hopes Valen doesn't exert himself too much—this is not for the next contest.
Valen places the laser pointer into the right pocket of his black pants. He's on the bed, flipping through a book about strange art pieces from throughout history. The room's large desk has a stack of twelve other artist monographs and coffee table art books on it. Valen's got more performance ideas than Melanie has fanfiction and novel ideas. Well, he did ten seconds ago. He just got a text from her.
"That's her fifth new story idea within a span of ten days." Valen stares at his phone, slowly blinking. "Did she forget that she actually has to write them? Just write while listening to that new summer jam featuring Curtis, how hard is that?"
Oh, he needs to get back on track. If he tries to comprehend this logic, he'll just become more confused. But she's a good writer, he won't let her forget that. She's always on point, and texting her those words caused her to send him a bunch of grin emojis.
He's normally on point too, but with Pokémon Contests. Alas, this one has him feeling like an astronaut nervous about going up into space. He's so confused that you'd think he ran into an army of Zubat in Mt. Moon. He's so lost that he feels like Silver trying to hide enjoyment in a normal social setting, or him trying to find those Absol earrings for Melanie.
Where did his desire to become a coordinator and performance battler in every match come from? It was when he found his calling inside the magnificent La Santa Xerneas della Vittoria in Siscia City. So beautiful, so dramatic, so…lifelike. The exterior, the interior, the sculptures, the paintings, the furniture, the theatre stage, it was all designed by his hero, Gianluigi Bernini.
Bernini's sculptural masterpiece is The Agony of King AZ, but his overall masterpiece is that structure. Valen's battling masterpiece was his conquering of Hoenn's Battle Frontier, but his overall masterpiece lie in the world of Pokémon Contests. He didn't train his Pokémon for battling, he trained them for Baroque theatre disguised as battling. And
And Baroque painting? It breaks norms and tradition, it shatters the barrier and drags you into it. He believes that the seeds for today's painters, such as the unstoppable Rosa, were planted four centuries ago by greats like Caravaggio and Rembrandt.
"Oops, I veered off the track," he remarks. "Contests are truly larger than life, aren't they?" He asks Gengar, who's poking out of the ceiling., "You should back to watching that opera performance. It's a Monteverdi piece, you love Monteverdi." He gives Gengar a thumbs up. "I'll be fine."
Folklore from various regions state that Gengar was once a human. Maybe his Gengar was once a larger-than-life opera performer who loved to pull pranks, or he perhaps was watching cartoons before it was cool.
A larger-than-life performer…just like one of his heroes. His gaze meets his copy of an biography on Thorvald Sigurdsson that's over eight hundred pages long. Thorvald was a master of the Dragon-type and the Steel-type. Thorvald was also a coordinator, an actor, a professional boxer, a lover of classical music, and an avid reader of literature.
To be a towering figure like Thorvald was once his dream too, but he doesn't have the personality to be such a figure. How can he be larger than life and so laid back at the same time? How can he manage such a feat without a return in his past confidence? He knows he's nowhere near a failure, but occasionally he wonders if he'll fall before he rises. On the flip side, he's wondered if his name has reached the ears of Wallace, often regarded as the greatest coordinator and performance battler of the present.
Valen directs his gaze to a photograph of his great-grandfather from his father's side. Sebastian Barsotti was a great man always encouraged the youth in the family to chase their dreams. He still remembers the one hundred year old man showing up to his first contest in person. Great-gramps passed away at one hundred five, but he has sensed his presence many times. Never give up on dreams were among the last words uttered by great-gramps.
"Sweetie, more prints of my paintings sold!"
At least somebody else is on point today, both in painting and arriving at the right time. His eyes follows her as she charges into the room like Tauros.
"I'm becoming more known, this is soooooo awesome!" Rosa's eyes sparkle as she clasps her hands. "One seller's sold out of Classical Romance and Pokémon Cupcake Date!" she twirls. "I'm on the road to victory!" She notices his sheepish expression. "Ooooh, Luxray got your tongue."
"Well…um…you mind lending me a hand?" Valen scratches his head and sheepishly closes his eyes. "I…uh…I might be overdoing it…eh heh heh heh…heh…heh—"
"Tee-hee, Super Rosa to the rescue!"
She leaps onto the bed and accidentally tackles Valen, his grunting and her giggling forming an peculiar synchronized reaction. She uses his lap as a seat and gives him a wink. Her eyes glitter at the stack of books.
"Kaaaay, tell me what you've got on your mind!"
"But Rosa, I have nothing in mind." Valen sighs, his right hand on his forehead. "Or rather, I can't hone in on a specific idea."
"Well, you shouldn't push yourself too hard either." Rosa caresses his right cheek. "It's fine to plan ahead, but you shouldn't hyperfocus on that."
She's got a point, he's already got Caravaggio on the mind for the next contest. The one after that shouldn't be this much of a concern. Still, he should be on point with my performance ideas…maybe.
"Heh." Valen shrugs with a lopsided smile. "Melanie was right—we all face a blockade eventually."
There's now a gleam in his eye—it just hit him. What about a scene based off of the Nordica region? Melanie would really enjoy an ode to her native region. Painters from Danvald Province, the southernmost part of Nordica, created some truly stunning landscapes and beautiful visuals of daily life. And he'll top it off with a combination of Beethoven and Gardevoir's angelic voice.
"Ding ding ding, that's the smile of a winner!" Rosa pulls out her phone and yanks Valen's closer. "Come with us, the time is right!" she winks, and the camera flashes. "There's no better team!"
"I'm sure even Wallace the Magnificent will find your performance amazing!" Rosa raises a fist up high. "Word online is that he might be visiting Angel City again in the near future!"
Valen's eyes widen for a brief second, but he quickly regains his calm demeanor. Still, the possibility of Wallace coming to town is going to send many coordinators and performers into a frenzy. He's gotta maintain and regain his confidence, but it's going to be hard to avoid being a mess. What coordinator wouldn't be a mess if the man dubbed "The Shakespeare of Contests" is present? It's like a Ragulian Renaissance painter being requested by the Medici.
Speaking of painting, now he realizes another potential reason Rosa's been on a classical and Baroque painting spree—Wallace has publicly stated that those, plus Rococo, are his favorite artistic eras. Getting his attention is a desire among many contemporary painters.
But how will this revelation impact Hilda and her shelved plan? Wallace is Lisia's uncle, after all. But only time will tell if their idea will-
"Grrrr, Wake-Up Slap!"
A double cheek bop snaps him out of it, and he responds by embracing Rosa. This time, he's the one who brings her down as they kiss with intense fervor.
Behold, the ferocious Salamence as it stomps around in the backyard of a Victorian home, terrorizes several large squeaky toys in process. Observe the clever methods the dragon uses to prevent escape, such as intentionally helping the squeaky toys escape by tossing them around. Naturally, Salamence has to throw the squeaky toys at other squeaky toys. Are you afraid of this mighty Pokémon yet? Does the cry of the Sunkern toy make you shudder?
Salamence is now engaging in squeaky toy bowling by rolling his favorite, the Voltorb toy. Don't try this at home, for it takes a very skilled Salamence to engage in such behavior. Success, he knocked all of the other squeaky toys down! He's the mightiest warrior of them all, he can't wait to be the king of all dragons! And he doesn't even need to wear an oversized Salamence costume like he did as a Bagon! Luxray, come join him!
Luxray scoffs at Salamence's foolish request, making Salamence laugh. But Salamence shouldn't be laughing. He's a proud feline, not some silly kitty. He broods instead of trying to beat up squeaky toys, but he won't deny that Salamence looks like he's having fun. Typhlosion has joined Salamence. Perhaps he should-no. Salamence can do it because he's the king of flying puppies. He cannot because he's the king of the edgelord kitties.
Gardevoir says he's got bigger problems but what does that mean? Fine, he'll check the table. Blah blah blah blah, everybody's talking too much. Why are Gardevoir, Golisopod, and Gengar laughing? Nothing funny is going on, so stop laughing.
Huh?
On the table…is that the…oh no!
The table has the forbidden kitten photos on it! Those were supposed to be hidden, how did they end up on the table?! Worse, it's the photos of kid Valen feeding him with a baby milk bottle! The horror, the absolute horror!
…Wait, photos with Valen aren't forbidden-no! No no no no no! He's a proud and edgy Luxray, his cute and cuddly Shinx days are long over, and even the squeaky toy photos are here?! Belly rub photos too?!
Crawling in his fur, his pride will never heal!
Why is it always him, why is this even real?!
Alas, poor Luxray. He walks a broody road, a road with many false assumptions. He's obviously not a kitty but he's alone on this road. He walks alone, he broods alone. He's also too flustered to realize it was Gardevoir and Golisopod who put the photos there. None of the new humans in Valen's life have seen it.
Not yet.
Suddenly, a lovely piece of classical music enters from the left neighbor's backyard. The elderly man who owns the house, a retired police officer, waves at the Pokémon as he relaxes. It's a family gathering, and the two youngest grandkids are running to their mom to tell her about the large backyard cool with a Salamence next door. They remind Luxray of when Valen was a little kid, his reaction to seeing dragons was the same.
Salamence is more focused on the harmonic melody. He'll never forget this piece, for it signifies freedom and victory. He's no stranger to doubt—evolution into his final form and the dream of flight felt out of reach. This Beethoven human really did give him an ode to joy, finding the strength he needed to push forward. Most importantly, he was able to make Valen's own dream of having a Salamence come true.
If he could speak to his trainer directly, Salamence would admit that this piece played in his head after he finally evolved from Shelgon. He would also tell Valen that he's the best Pokémon Trainer the team could've asked for.
A beautiful, dramatic melody fills up the master bedroom and protrudes into the hallway. It's the first movement of Beethoven's legendary Ninth Symphony, a universal favorite among the Pokémon. It's also how Valen discovered classical music as a kid, and it made him imagine himself riding atop a mighty Salamence. Was he a superhero in those daydreams? Sometimes, but he was mostly a flamboyant trainer. In a good way, that is.
While he was growing up alongside a cute little Shinx, Valen would dream about having a Salamence of his own. History outside of the arts also played a huge role in his desire for a Salamence, but history hasn't always been kind to people and Pokémon. His parents made sure he knew that from an early age, and he's thankful for it.
For a glimpse into the darker side of history, consider what he's reading at the moment:
March, 1415. Agincourt, northern Kalos. Hundreds of Pokémon engaged in the largest and most violent Pokémon battle in history. Sword duels by trainers in gleaming armor who refused to accept defeat due to pride. Arrows flew because the trainers refused to allow their Pokémon to fight alone. Galarian forces won the battle, but how can he consider it a victory when hundreds of trainers had to bury their Pokémon?
That's how a popular non-fiction book on the infamous battle begins, and that's what Valen has chosen to contemplate about. But even when he considers the element of mob mentality, even though he knows the behavior of the Pokémon, he doesn't understand it. Why did the Pokémon fight even more viciously than their trainers? Why throw their lived away for victory? In the end, was it truly worth it?
"To think it all started with Mordred V's desire to elevate Galarian trainers," Valen remarks, his fingers rubbing against the pages as he flips to the next one. "I swear, Kyogre and Groudon got along better than Galar and Kalos—warfare was already abolished in the Mediterranean regions."
These trainers were hardened soldiers—many of the best trainers in medieval times were knights. But even they sobbed at the sight of fallen Pokémon. Many of the Galarians abandoned Pokémon training upon returning home. Arcanine, Corviknight, Luxray, Flygon, many popular choices among trainers today were common in warfare. He can hardly imagine the rough upbringing and life of a Pokémon specifically trained for ground, aerial, even black ops warfare. Even if they survived and retired, could they truly fit in with other Pokémon?
What about their trainers, how did they go into military conflicts knowing that both of them might not make it? He's asked this question to family members who served, albeit armies became purely for defensive and humanitarian purposes as warfare decreased. The closest today would be the fact that the military in Calvana and other regions frequently fights Pokémon Hunters in barren areas.
Valen's Luxray snaps him out of his train of thought by nudging his left leg. Luxray receives pets in return. He locks eyes with Luxray, the purring is classical music to his ears. This edgelord is a big kitty at heart, and he wouldn't have it any other way. And his Luxray gets to live life to the fullest, a life free of senseless war and tragedy. Let him be an edgelord if he wants to, for he has the freedom to decide between being a silly kitty and a broody kitty.
Valen grabs the Chingling bell toy he keeps nearby and dangles it above Luxray. No hesitation is present in Luxray's decision as he repeatedly tries to nibble and smack the toy. This toy is more of a friendly rival, as opposed to the evil red light. Perhaps two red lights should appear again next time.
"…I forgot to figure out a contest performance in advance." Valen smacks his forehead. "Man, it feels like I always lose track of time when I go this deep into thinking."
Luxray helps by gently pulling the bell toy out of his hand, and he switches to a book on Romanticism art. He has his next performance figured out, but he needs and wants to get a head start for the next contest. He opens to a random page and is greeted by one of Turner's landscapes. This vibrant painting of the legendary Faraway Island has a Mew frolicking about in the grass. He'd like to have Gardevoir conjure up a vibrant green scene like this one, but there are many great landscapes to select for inspiration.
Realizing that Luxray's still here, Valen pats his head. Valen also realizes that Hilda's right behind him. Her energy's enough to deduce her presence from a mile away, so when did she enter the master bedroom? And what is new about her accessories? The gold earrings of a proud avian, of course.
"Thanks for the Braviary earrings." Hilda kisses him on the lips. "You didn't have to-"
"Yes, I did." Valen crosses his arms and grins. "Got a problem with that?"
"Nope." Hilda titters, her left hand hovering over her grin. "No matter what I do, I want to be with you.~" She winks, then yanks him off the bed. "You know that you're my boo, I'm always there for you.~" She tilts her head towards two newly framed photos. "And you didn't notice these yet."
One photograph is of the four massive portrait busts carved into Mount Blackstone, which is located in the rugged landscape of northeastern Apisi. Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo are the depicted subjects, for they are very significant in the native population's lore.
Another photograph has been framed next to the Mount Blackstone one. It's a selfie that she took while visiting the Al-Hilāi region. Why did she want this one framed? Hehe, it's because the Roaring Moon and Sandy Shocks reliefs at the ancient village of Göbekli Tepe lie in the distance.
Valen's about to reach for his laptop and add ideas based on these two photographs, but he stops when he remembers that document is already four pages long. Even though he just discovered the daily dilemma of a creative writer, he just shrugs and adds the ideas to his list.
Hilda rockets up but loses her balance before words can come out of her mouth. He wraps his arms around her midsection but she still ends up tumbling into the sofa with him. At least he didn't drop his book.
"Aieeeee, I'm such a klutz!" Hilda's face reddens and she shuts her eyes. "I have more energy than I can control at times!"
"You don't say?" Valen would prefer not being squeezed in-between Hilda and the sofa. "I feel like one of Salamence and Typhlosion's old squeaky toys."
It's difficult to tell whether Hilda's being playful or if she was actually a klutz. Regardless, give him Hilda falling into him on purpose over Hilda not enjoying herself any day, week, and month. It's crazy to think that she would forget time to have fun, but she's even forgotten to watch Eevee Rangers in the past. She's gotten much better at dealing with pressure over the years, and he's proud of her for that.
"Heeeeey, wake up!" Hilda thwacks him with a rolled up poster. "Rise and shine!"
"Nah, I'm feeling lazy." He wants to know where the poster came from. "Goodnight."
Hilda stands up and places the Eevee Rangers poster on the walnut table with four legs shaped like Yanmega. She pretends to trip and fall backwards, ensuring that Valen catches her halfway. She titters, wrapping her arms around his neck.
"You just had to make me look silly, didn't you?" He plays around with her brown hair. "You did this even when were just friends."
"Hehe, it always works!" she winks. "And I beat Rosa to the punch!"
"Indeed, you did. But you won't always be so lucky."
Hilda's Umbreon sees that Valen's Luxray is also here, and her eyes sparkle with excitement. She stands on her hind legs and does the same thing as her trainer, only to fall onto Luxray's back and sending them both tumbling onto the floor. For better or for worse, Valen's Gardevoir managed to catch it on camera.
"You know, I finally realized why I can't make up my mind." Hilda closes her eyes and laughs. "It's such a silly thing."
"You mean about stepping away from the BW Agency?"
"Yeah, wasn't the park and Battle Frontier idea because that was always a longshot." Hilda cups Valen's face. "Maybe it's because the agency brought a sweetheart into my life."
"…Heh, or course this would happen." Valen plays with her hair. "I'm just that awesome."
"You helped to make my success a reality and I still want to help you and the others." Hilda kisses him on the lips. "More importantly, Rosa and I couldn't have asked for a better boyfriend."
"Last I checked, you two are better." Valen leans back and shrugs. "Objective fact."
"No." Hilda bops his forehead. "You're better."
"Take that back." Valen tries to give her a noogie but she blocks it. "Don't make me come over there."
"I told you it was a silly thing." Hilda closes her eyes and tumbles into his arms again. "I'm struggling on whether to step away because I love you so much, not to mention it led me to my closest friends."
"I considered you a friend first," Valen teases, playing with her hair again. "And I love you just the way you are."
"Hehe, to think we were agent and client at first."
"What's the plan now?"
"Well, I've already relinquished management for a reason." Hilda titters and stands up. She twirls to face him, her hands folded in front of her right shoulder. "You know I can't sit in an office all day."
"But are you free right now?~" Valen's tone is smooth and melodic. "Can we hug right now?~"
"Don't you know that you're my man!?~" Hilda backs up in a dancing motion, then she spins around to embrace Valen. "You better understand.~"
Maybe she should take Lisia up on that offer, Hilda thinks as she kisses Valen. She can be her own manager, just like Lisia. For now, she'll kiss the guy who managed to claim her heart. The world around them has taken a backseat for a reason.
Alas, their moment is interrupted by the catchy instrument booming from a radio in the backyard. Both know the song, they've heard Curtis' smooth, country accent on this rap/R&B dancing banger everywhere they go.
"I'm cruising with Sylveon, supercar in the sunshine. We're enjoying the summertime, I'm looking for my future wife. I just wanna cuddle up, give a girl love and trust. Baby you deserve a real one, not someone that's one and done.~"
They share a glance and peek out of the large, rectangular windows just as the catchy hook finishes and Guzma's rap verse plays. Two of Team Skull's original members, Menace Man and Party Boi, show up later on this joint too. He might be a dork, but Team Skull's Valen doesn't completely live under a Boldore.
His big bad Salamence is dancing with Rosa's Milotic, she's weaving her body up and down while Salamence slides from left to right. It's almost exactly how Rosa and him have danced at parties before. Rosa's Hydreigon does his usual happy dance, but all the Pokémon are jamming to this summertime tune in this impromptu backyard party. Except for Luxray and Umbreon, they've been cuddling in this room.
Hilda's Garchomp, Beartic, and Emboar perform the associated dance with his Golisopod, swaying like the ocean's waves. They make a driving motion and jump one step left, then one step right. Jump back the same way, slide from side to side. His Gengar tries to do it too, but falls flat onto the grass.
"Gengar could use some dance lessons." Valen begins to record this for Rosa. "Maybe Salamence can assist him."
"Hehe, they're all so adorable." Hilda jumps, her hands folded again. "They always try to take after us."
Are the neighbors disturbed by any of this? Nope, the couple to the right even got their phone cameras out. The whole block is used to these random parties thrown by their Pokémon, and they've always been chill about it.
Two famous books on architecture by historic architects, one from Ancient Siscia and one from the Ragulian Renaissance. Add in the painting guidelines found in the notebooks of a Renaissance polymath. Consulting them is the norm for Rosa when practicing her craft, and she makes quick sketches of architectural features and human figures based on what she sees. Overlooking her is a self-portrait of Raphael, the legendary artist who lived centuries ago but still inspires her. Other painting prints surround her, making her studio a true love letter to painting.
She's in her painting studio, far away from the canvases and brushes. Valen's planning for a future contest right now, but she's using the books he has acquired over the years is an extension of unyielding love and appreciation for him. It's why she uses his copy of Leonardo's notes instead of her own. She also loves to consult the works of those who came centuries before, basking in the wisdom that is still read to this day.
She grabs her pencil and draws more buildings for a sketch that she's already started. She's been noticing prints of her landscapes sell out fast, so she's trying her hand at a famous city. Eat your heart out, Canaletto. No disrespect intended, Canaletto's the landscape GOAT in her book.
Gengar appears to greet her, then vanishes again. He flops down on his back, his grin dropping open upon hearing giggling. Her smile widens when she feels pats from the goofy ghost's trainer shoulder. Only he can warm her up through such a common gesture.
"Take your time, I'll wait until you're ready to give true love a try."
"We aren't eighteen anymore, sweetie." Rosa giggles and blows a kiss. "We're in our twenties."
"Eh, it wasn't that long ago."
"Silly boy, did you miss me already?"
"Obviously, that's why I came to check up on the modern world's cutest artist." Valen kisses the top of her head, then he looks at her sheet. "Looks like you're practicing to construct a city landscape."
"W-Woah, you figured that out with one glance?!" Rosa leans back, her arms bent horizontally at her sides. "You can't use Mind Reader on Roooosa like that, it'll ruin the surprise!"
"Rosa, Basilica dei Bilanciatori is sketched out in the center of your layout sheet." Valen points to his book on the famous structure. "And I can tell what you have mind by what you pull from the shelves."
"Oh you silly boy, can't you see that I was teasing?" Rosa giggles and clasps her hands. "I knew you'd get it right."
"Maybe I knew that, maybe I didn't." Valen exchanges a hug with Rosa, then pulls up a chair. "Let's see what you've got."
Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini are just three of the names associated with Siscia City's most iconic landmark, right up there with The Pokémon Colosseum from ancient times. The massive structure is dedicated to Xerneas, Yveltal, Zygarde and the balance of the planet that they are in charge of maintaining.
The famous building is the centerpiece of this sketch, the finished painting will likely resemble the city landscapes of eighteenth century painters from Altomare City. Modern skyscrapers and other historical buildings loom in the distance, bringing together the past and the present.
"I even added a few old cars cuz I know you like really sleek looking old cars!"
It requires a keen eye to see, but there are indeed flamboyant and elegant cars from the 1930s, plus several grand tourers from the 1950s and 1960s. Lot of pedestrians going about their business too, they range from traffic cops to tourists.
He can also see a glimpse of Rosa's sketch of Crystalline Town, a small community in barren eastern Calvana that's far from the constant movement of city life. Knowing her, there's probably about ten more small town sketches behind it.
"Tee-hee, I almost forgot!" Rosa grabs her sketchbook and shows Valen her lavish drawings of various rooms. "Hilda and I want to make the interior more fancy, like super duper fancy!" She clasps her hands again. "Kalosian Rococo fancy!"
"A Gothic Revival house with a Kalosian Rococo interior?" Valen rests his right index finger on his chin. "Interesting."
"Yeeeep, but we want to keep the walls and floor as is to preserve the historical value!" Rosa forms a peace sign. "Can't change everything!"
Valen chuckles. "One thing at a time, but I like the way you two think," he says. "I've been thinking of swapping out the dining tables and chair."
"Woah, we have telepathic thinking!"
"It would seem so." Valen closes his eyes and rubs Rosa's head. "Remember that I love you just the way you are.~"
Rosa catches him sneaking his phone into her line of sight. Good timing, she missed seeing the backyard Pokémon party.
Within the room he uses to chill and brood in, Valen's Luxray is locked in a staring contest with his trainer's book on Holbein, the famous court painter of King Mordred VIII. In the photo section, there is one painting that still sparks Luxray's imagination. A royal portrait of a fellow Luxray must be examined with great admiration.
Valen had told him this story many times, for it was his favorite bedtime story as a Shinx. This human, Maximillian Tregonwell, was knighted after his victory over an undefeated Paldean trainer in a Pokémon battle. The king wasn't too fond of that trainer, for he had a foul mouth and far too much pride. The king even knighted the Luxray and Absol that clinched the win.
Why can't he be knighted too? It would disprove that barring those ridiculous kitty instincts, his kitty days are long gone. Call him Sir Luxalot, edgelord extraordinaire and- RED LIGHT! Ahem, a noble kitty shall not allow such a scoundrel to annoy him-RED LIGHT! Perhaps he should ask Rosa to paint—GO AWAY RED LIGHT!
He chases the red light out of the room and into the master bedroom. Hiss, he is angry. So angry! He's about to unleash his rage and-he caught it! HE CAUGHT THE RED LIGHT!
"As a Pokémon who's apparently too edgy for playtime, you sure do love to play."
Luxray looks back at his trainer and smirks. He dislikes his kitty instincts, but he can let it slide if it makes his trainer happy. He heads downstairs to eat some cheese puffs, hoping Valen figures out his that contest performance soon. He hopes Valen doesn't exert himself too much—this is not for the next contest.
Valen places the laser pointer into the right pocket of his black pants. He's on the bed, flipping through a book about strange art pieces from throughout history. The room's large desk has a stack of twelve other artist monographs and coffee table art books on it. Valen's got more performance ideas than Melanie has fanfiction and novel ideas. Well, he did ten seconds ago. He just got a text from her.
"That's her fifth new story idea within a span of ten days." Valen stares at his phone, slowly blinking. "Did she forget that she actually has to write them? Just write while listening to that new summer jam featuring Curtis, how hard is that?"
Oh, he needs to get back on track. If he tries to comprehend this logic, he'll just become more confused. But she's a good writer, he won't let her forget that. She's always on point, and texting her those words caused her to send him a bunch of grin emojis.
He's normally on point too, but with Pokémon Contests. Alas, this one has him feeling like an astronaut nervous about going up into space. He's so confused that you'd think he ran into an army of Zubat in Mt. Moon. He's so lost that he feels like Silver trying to hide enjoyment in a normal social setting, or him trying to find those Absol earrings for Melanie.
Where did his desire to become a coordinator and performance battler in every match come from? It was when he found his calling inside the magnificent La Santa Xerneas della Vittoria in Siscia City. So beautiful, so dramatic, so…lifelike. The exterior, the interior, the sculptures, the paintings, the furniture, the theatre stage, it was all designed by his hero, Gianluigi Bernini.
Bernini's sculptural masterpiece is The Agony of King AZ, but his overall masterpiece is that structure. Valen's battling masterpiece was his conquering of Hoenn's Battle Frontier, but his overall masterpiece lie in the world of Pokémon Contests. He didn't train his Pokémon for battling, he trained them for Baroque theatre disguised as battling. And
And Baroque painting? It breaks norms and tradition, it shatters the barrier and drags you into it. He believes that the seeds for today's painters, such as the unstoppable Rosa, were planted four centuries ago by greats like Caravaggio and Rembrandt.
"Oops, I veered off the track," he remarks. "Contests are truly larger than life, aren't they?" He asks Gengar, who's poking out of the ceiling., "You should back to watching that opera performance. It's a Monteverdi piece, you love Monteverdi." He gives Gengar a thumbs up. "I'll be fine."
Folklore from various regions state that Gengar was once a human. Maybe his Gengar was once a larger-than-life opera performer who loved to pull pranks, or he perhaps was watching cartoons before it was cool.
A larger-than-life performer…just like one of his heroes. His gaze meets his copy of an biography on Thorvald Sigurdsson that's over eight hundred pages long. Thorvald was a master of the Dragon-type and the Steel-type. Thorvald was also a coordinator, an actor, a professional boxer, a lover of classical music, and an avid reader of literature.
To be a towering figure like Thorvald was once his dream too, but he doesn't have the personality to be such a figure. How can he be larger than life and so laid back at the same time? How can he manage such a feat without a return in his past confidence? He knows he's nowhere near a failure, but occasionally he wonders if he'll fall before he rises. On the flip side, he's wondered if his name has reached the ears of Wallace, often regarded as the greatest coordinator and performance battler of the present.
Valen directs his gaze to a photograph of his great-grandfather from his father's side. Sebastian Barsotti was a great man always encouraged the youth in the family to chase their dreams. He still remembers the one hundred year old man showing up to his first contest in person. Great-gramps passed away at one hundred five, but he has sensed his presence many times. Never give up on dreams were among the last words uttered by great-gramps.
"Sweetie, more prints of my paintings sold!"
At least somebody else is on point today, both in painting and arriving at the right time. His eyes follows her as she charges into the room like Tauros.
"I'm becoming more known, this is soooooo awesome!" Rosa's eyes sparkle as she clasps her hands. "One seller's sold out of Classical Romance and Pokémon Cupcake Date!" she twirls. "I'm on the road to victory!" She notices his sheepish expression. "Ooooh, Luxray got your tongue."
"Well…um…you mind lending me a hand?" Valen scratches his head and sheepishly closes his eyes. "I…uh…I might be overdoing it…eh heh heh heh…heh…heh—"
"Tee-hee, Super Rosa to the rescue!"
She leaps onto the bed and accidentally tackles Valen, his grunting and her giggling forming an peculiar synchronized reaction. She uses his lap as a seat and gives him a wink. Her eyes glitter at the stack of books.
"Kaaaay, tell me what you've got on your mind!"
"But Rosa, I have nothing in mind." Valen sighs, his right hand on his forehead. "Or rather, I can't hone in on a specific idea."
"Well, you shouldn't push yourself too hard either." Rosa caresses his right cheek. "It's fine to plan ahead, but you shouldn't hyperfocus on that."
She's got a point, he's already got Caravaggio on the mind for the next contest. The one after that shouldn't be this much of a concern. Still, he should be on point with my performance ideas…maybe.
"Heh." Valen shrugs with a lopsided smile. "Melanie was right—we all face a blockade eventually."
There's now a gleam in his eye—it just hit him. What about a scene based off of the Nordica region? Melanie would really enjoy an ode to her native region. Painters from Danvald Province, the southernmost part of Nordica, created some truly stunning landscapes and beautiful visuals of daily life. And he'll top it off with a combination of Beethoven and Gardevoir's angelic voice.
"Ding ding ding, that's the smile of a winner!" Rosa pulls out her phone and yanks Valen's closer. "Come with us, the time is right!" she winks, and the camera flashes. "There's no better team!"
"I'm sure even Wallace the Magnificent will find your performance amazing!" Rosa raises a fist up high. "Word online is that he might be visiting Angel City again in the near future!"
Valen's eyes widen for a brief second, but he quickly regains his calm demeanor. Still, the possibility of Wallace coming to town is going to send many coordinators and performers into a frenzy. He's gotta maintain and regain his confidence, but it's going to be hard to avoid being a mess. What coordinator wouldn't be a mess if the man dubbed "The Shakespeare of Contests" is present? It's like a Ragulian Renaissance painter being requested by the Medici.
Speaking of painting, now he realizes another potential reason Rosa's been on a classical and Baroque painting spree—Wallace has publicly stated that those, plus Rococo, are his favorite artistic eras. Getting his attention is a desire among many contemporary painters.
But how will this revelation impact Hilda and her shelved plan? Wallace is Lisia's uncle, after all. But only time will tell if their idea will-
"Grrrr, Wake-Up Slap!"
A double cheek bop snaps him out of it, and he responds by embracing Rosa. This time, he's the one who brings her down as they kiss with intense fervor.
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