Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/ works/12407076. Rating: Explicit Archive Warning: Choose_Not_To_Use_Archive_Warnings, Underage Category: Multi Fandom: Pocket_Monsters_|_Pokemon_-_All_Media_Types, Pocket_Monsters:_Sun_&_Moon |_Pokemon_Sun_&_Moon_Versions Character: Original_Characters, Original_Male_Character(s), Original_Female Character(s), Poocheyna, Growlithe Additional Tags: The_Porn_is_coming_in_later_chapters, Rated_Mature_for_later, I'll_add the_tags_as_they_come_though, Slow_Burn, My_OCs, Probably_will_get darker, as_the_story_progresses, Blood, Violence, Brutal_battles_as_the story_progresses, OC_Robin, OC_Cole, Oc_Sarah, Crossdressing, Gender Confusion, gender_discovery Stats: Published: 2017-10-18 Updated: 2017-10-22 Chapters: 2/? Words: 13100 ****** Free Little Bird ****** by LittleLag Summary Robin, a sickly boy of 11, has always lived his life under the watchful eye of his father, until they move to the region of Alola. There, a fateful encounter of two new friends spurs on his dreams of being a trainer and setting out on an adventure! But children wondering alone is not always the safest, and lonely nights on the road may spur on intimate moments with his new friends and even his own Pokemon. ***** A Fateful Battle ***** Chapter Summary Robin moves into a new area, alone with only his dad in the world of Alola. He goes out, seeking to explore this new place, only to find himself quickly at the mercy of a bully who challenges him to his first ever Pokemon battle against another trainer and maybe making his first friend as well. When the ship had pulled up to Hau’oli City, Robin had no idea what to expect. New Pokemon, new people, new everything. Even the air and the sun felt new. But now, in a new apartment, he stood by his, placed in the thick of a town on the upswing of expansion. The city had been growing ever since the Pokémon League had begun to take shape here in Alola, and Robin felt he and his father were inevitably a part of it.   Poocheyna, his first and only Pokémon from his home region of Hoenn, scurried around the place, sniffing at the walls and floor. His tail wagged furiously, excited for it all. Well, at least someone is happy, Robin thought, shoving his hands in his sky blue sweater’s pockets. “Well…” his dad clapped. “We better tell the Machokes to start bringing the boxes in right?” His dad was a tall man, physically fit enough to look like he could rival a Machoke himself, but there was only so many boxes one man can move on his own. Since they lived on the 3rd floor, it made sense to splurge a bit on the helpful movers. “Yeah…” Robin said. He went over to his Poocheyna, whose tail wagged even faster at the sight of his trainer, and patted his head. A weak smile formed on Robin’s face as he pushed a lock of oak brown hair from his eyes and tucked it behind his ear. “Hey, buddy.” He felt his father’s large hand clasp on his shoulder. “It’ll be alright. It’s a new start. I know Lisa isn’t here, but the doctor said the clean, Alolan air will do your health a lot of good. Even in the city, it’s cleaner than most anywhere else.” Robin looked up to see his father’s comforting brown eyes staring into Robin’s own dark green ones. They said Robin had his mother’s eyes although he had never seen them in person himself to see if that’s true, and photos never do things justice, he thought. “Yeah, I suppose.” “I have an idea. Why don’t you go walk around the neighborhood. Get a lay of the land while the movers do their work. Poocheyna will keep you safe from any hooligans. And you may meet some new friends.” He bent down, as if to tell a secret. “And truth be told, I worry Poocheyna will trip up the movers in the process.” Poocheyna, as if hearing Robin’s dad’s idea but blissfully unaware of the accusation, suddenly was filled with a rush of energy as he ran around the apartment, yapping and barking like mad. Robin sighed but tried to put on a brave face. Now he had no choice with Poocheyna worked up like this. “Come on, boy,” he said, patting his cargo shorts, and the rambunctious Pokémon came running full tilt, nearly tackling Robin. “Alright! Alright!” he said, starting to crack a giggle. The Pokémon began to lick his legs and hands. “You be safe, OK?” his father said. “Don’t go too far. You might get lost or your cough will start to act up.” “Alright, Dad.” Robin made his way to the door, the excited Poocheyna nipping at his heels. “And if you get in any trouble. Call me, OK?”       “OK, OK!” “And don’t go in any tall grass. Your Pokémon isn’t strong enough and-“ “Dad.” Robin turned and sighed. “I’ll be fine. I’m 11. I can take care of myself now.” His dad looked at him for a moment, seeming to balance on the edge of debating that point with Robin before laughing himself and rubbing the back of his head in defeat. “You’re right. You’re absolutely right. I promise I won’t touch your stuff while unpacking.” Robin beamed. “Thank you!” he yelled as he ran out the door, following Poocheyna’s lead.   Robin noticed everywhere he looked there were plants in this city. Tall grass, fenced off, poked out from alley ways and parks seemed to be more than plentiful. Palm trees towered over the city streets. Flower displays sat in front of many buildings, especially the shops. It was a city that seemed to build around nature as much as over it, striking a balance. Despite the growth, it still did not look as big as some of the cities in Hoenn too. Taking a deep breath, Robin could smell the sea. He knew they were close to a beach that he knew he’d have to visit. Even the port looked like a good spot to kick back and relax. What made the air even better was how it felt in his lungs. Deeper breaths were already feeling a bit easier for him to take. Following Poochyena, he passed in front of a Malasada shop, bustling with people. The smell that wafted out of the store was killer, making his mouth start to water. He felt his pocket and realized he had no money for snacks. By the look of Poocheyna, the smell was working his appetite up as well. “I’ll tell Dad about it when we get back,” Robin said to the Pokémon. Poocheyna yipped back and trotted with Robin. There were so many people with Pokémon here too. Of course, there were many Pokémon everywhere, but the amount that looked like trainers with backpacks and belt of PokeBalls was staggering. In the sky, Pokémon cawed and in the sea he could hear the powerful, water Pokémon splashing. So many different types of creatures all over and he wanted to see them all. How many Pokemon had he never seen, he wondered. How many were only here in Alola, waiting to be discovered? Without paying attention, he suddenly himself standing across the street from the Pokemon Center. In Alola, they seemed to have merged the Center with the Mart as well as added in a Cafe, as advertised by a chalk board resting by the glass sliding doors. It was the epicenter of Pokémon trainers. A crowd of them came and went with a goal in the mind. Purpose in all their steps. He watched them move about with envy. Robin felt Poocheyna pawed at his leg anxiously, but ignored it, lost in admiration. “Do you think I could ever be a trainer, Poocheyna?” he muttered. His breath caught in his throat and fell into a small coughing fit. Poocheyna sat and whimpered as he waited for Robin’s coughing to pass. Eventually it faded, leaving his throat with that familiar sore feeling, and Robin reached down to give Poocheyna a reassuring pat. “Someday, right? I’m old enough. And I bet you’d be strong.” “That thing? Yeah right…” Poocheyna started to growl at the sudden voice that was almost unnervingly arrogant and relaxed.  Robin looked up, still crouched by Poocheyna, to see a boy towering over him. He looked about the same age as Robin, a year older probably, but at the same time, vastly more mature. His piercing, icy blue eyes seemed to dig into Robin’s own and his windswept, dirty-blonde hair made this kid look tough. “I…” Robin pulled his Poocheyna closer and broke eye contact. A flush started to form on his face. “I mean… He might be but he’s never battled a trainer before, so I don’t know for sure.” “Then let’s battle, squirt!” the mysterious boy declared. From his belt he grabbed a Pokeball, and he headed towards to middle of the road, not even waiting for Robin to agree or disagree. Poocheyna did the agreeing for Robing. He jumped and squirmed in Robin’s arms, fighting to follow the boy. “Are you sure?” Robin asked. His voice shook a little, nervous at the idea his first Pokémon battle. People were already starting to look. A steady stream of murmurs rippled through the crowd. First day here, and Robin felt he was too far in over his head. Poocheyna looked into Robin’s eyes, and that was answer enough. Robin let him go. He barreled to face off against the boy. Robin followed. “Hey, they’re gonna battle!” Robin overheard from the crowd “Here? No way!” “Who’s that small kid? He looks scared out of his mind…” “Looks like another victim.” The crowd grew around them slowly but surely as Poocheyna barred his teeth and issued a low growl. “Alright, pup. You want to growl at me?” the boy reached for a Pokeball. “Go! Growlithe!” The ball flew through the air before clacking out the ground. It opened in a flash of red light, which retreated to show the puppy Pokémon, Growlithe. It’s small, poofy tail thumped on the concrete, seeming happier to be let out of his ball than interested in the growling Poocheyna in front of him. He sat looking at the audience he had. “Poocheyna, it’s not too late to-“ Poocheyna turned to Robin and barked. His eyes waited for orders. Robin’s mouth flattened, determined, he nodded and tried to remember back to when what moves Poocheyna had. The only time he remembered seeing them was when Poocheyna had protected him against a wild Zizagoon, charging in just like he had here and taking matters into his own metaphorical hands. What moves did he have?Robin’s fists clenched. “Growlithe!” shouted the puppy Pokémon as he bounced up, then bent forward, and stuck its butt in the air. Its teeth drew back in a snarl and Poocheyna didn’t hesitate to do the same. It was a standoff, both Pokémon waiting for orders. The crowd was still. Bite. Tackle. Sand Attack… Robin recalled. Sand Attack and… Howl? He started with a Howl when he saved me that time. Should I go first? Is the boy waiting for me? The other boy showed no motion to commence. He simply stood, arms crossed, with a smirk on his face. Robin fidgeted, feeling a flush burn on his face as if the icy eyes that stared at him were stripping him bare. Finally, the boy spoke in a slow, taunting voice. “Well…?” “I don’t…” “Do you not know how to battle? Why do you even have a Pokemon?” “I know how too!” Robin shouted back, his voice shrill. “Prove it.” “Fine! Use howl, Poocheyna!”   Immediately, Poocheyna turned his head to the sky and let loose a piercing howl. Robin felt the cry dig into his ears, but he refused to plug them. I need to look confident, just like him. He could see the boy’s shoulders bouncing in a quiet chuckle. When Poocheyna finished, the Pokémon’s  eyes seemed to glow. The energy from his Pokémon spiked, an aura that Robin could feel. “Growlithe! Use bite!” “Grow!” the Pokémon responded and charged. “Dodge it, Poocheyna!” Poocheyna made to listen, leaping to his left, but the Growlithe had closed the ground too fast. The Pokémon’s jaws closed around Poocheyna’s tail, and quickly jerked his head, killing all moment from Poocheyna’s jump. In one swift twist of his head, Growlithe slammed Poocheyna into the concrete street, a yelp escaping from him. The force of the slam had kicked up dirt and dust, clouding the view. He’s strong… “Poocheyna!” Robin shouted. He took a step forward, feeling the instinct rise to run in and pull his friend out, but Growlithe flashed him a look that froze him in his place. Did… he just threaten me?Fear began to grow in his heart. Such power… He shook his head. He had to win. He had to prove himself. If he ever wanted to be a trainer, he couldn’t let Poocheyna down! While Growlithe’s eyes were still on him, Robin shouted “Use bite yourself!” From the dust emerged white jaws that snapped around Growlithe’s leg. The puppy Pokemon cried and tried to run, but Poocheyna’s strong jaws took Growlithe’s legs out from under him. The Growlithe, turned it’s head, growling. Robin knew Poocheyna was vulnerable still. “Poocheyna! Let go! Try to stand!” He did, releasing Growlithe. Growlithe sprinted off, retaking his position in front of his trainer. Cuts and scratches covered its paw, small sprinkles of blood mingling in the fur, which clearly hurt enough to cause the Pokémon to be light on it. Poocheyna stood, looking worse than his opponent. His tail looked bent, and there was a bad gash on his forehead, leaking enough blood to cause one eye to remain closed. Robin gulped. Could he really put Poocheyna through more? His best friend was bleeding out here… He felt a lump form in his throat. “Don’t get cocky.” The boy said. “Let’s wrap this up, Growlithe. I’m hungry. Growlithe, use flame wheel.” Flame wheel? “Grow! Grow! Lithe!” The Growlithe leaped into the air, beginning to spin. “Poocheyna… be ready to dodge.” The Pokemon nodded in agreement. Faster and faster he spun until the Pokémon’s entire body was coated in flames. Robin’s eyes grew wide as he realized what was about to happen. But he realized too late. The Pokemon came crashing to the ground in a blur, and like the wheel of a car, sped out in full charge. Poocheyna lept, following orders to a key, but that was all he could do. The wheel had turned, easily tracking Poocheyna’s movements. SLAM! “Poocheyna!” The Growlithe crashed full force into Poocheyna, sending him flying. Thud. The battered Poocheyna landed in front of the crowd who was caught in a crazed cheer. On shakey legs, Poocheyna tried to stand, but again and again they failed him. His fur was singed, small embers dancing around Poocheyna. He was still snarling, wanting to fight, but his open eye was cringed in pain. “Poocheyna, stop.” Robin pleaded. The Growlithe simple stood and watched, content in his victory. Besides for the scuff on its paw, it looked like the fight took nothing from him. “Pokemon battles are supposed to go on till the opponent’s Pokemon fainted. You know that too right?” The boy said. Hatred burned in Robin’s heart just looking at him. “Looks like that pup still has energy left so… Guess you gotta finish it Growlithe. Em—“ “STOP!” The crowd went quite. A shrill voice screamed from somewhere, leaving even the mysterious boy confused. The crowd by Poocheyna parted, and soon the small frame of a girl pushed its way out. Wearing a frilly dress over her soft, brown skin and a curly, brown hair tied back in pig tails, she certainly did not seem the type to be injecting herself into a battle like this. Robin noticed the Pokeballs around her waist however, and she certainly wore a smirk to match the mysterious boy’s own cocky one. “Cole, you absolute asshole!” She continued to yell. She ignored Robin as she headed straight for the other trainer apparently named Cole. “Beating up Pokemon obviously weaker than yours. For what? Why on Earth do you need to prove yourself against this random kid? What is your fucking problem?” Robin would have never guessed that a girl dressed like that would be capable of such language, but never had he been more relieved to hear someone curse up a storm. He sprinted, ignoring the bewildered Growlithe, straight to his Poocheyna, who’s eyes were still locked fiercely on his opponent and knelt beside him. “Stop,” he whispered. Emotionally shot, his worries overflowed and tears began to roll from his eyes. His hand rubbed the top of Poocheyna’s head, being sure to avoid the gash that still bled. “Stop. It’s done. Stop.” Desperately, Robin pawed at his eyes, trying to fight back choking sobs of fear in front of all these people. Like snapping out of a trance, the Pokémon looked up at Robin, and all at once his energy left him. Poocheyna slouched against Robin’s lap. “S-Sarah!” Robin watched Cole, who seemed completely thrown off, through misty eyes. Cole’s cool had left all at once. “You were supposed to be out on your family’s yacht!” “You would like that wouldn’t you? Making kids cry for some sick fun.” CRACK! Robin’s jaw dropped as he saw red bloom on Cole’s cheek. Hand cocked back, Sarah looked ready to throw a second slap. Silence filled the air except for the faint hiccups coming from Robin. He waited for fists to get thrown, for Cole to turn purely violent. But a smile formed on the Cole’s face instead that turned to a manic grin to a chuckle to howling laughter. “Alright! Alright!” he barely managed to say. “You win, Sarah. You win. I don’t want to fight you again. Keep your knickers on. I’m out. Return, Growlithe.” Cole brought out the Pokeball. A flash of red reached out, and as it retracted, so did the Growlithe. “Did good again, buddy.” Robin was in shock. Cole turned, walking away as calmly as he came. Before he disappeared into the surrounding crowd, Cole looked back over his shoulder at Robin. “I’ll be seeing you again, squirt. I like you.” And then he was gone. Sarah turned her attention on Robin, who was unsure if he wanted it. Something about her scared him more than Cole did. Her strides were long, and she crossed the street to him in no time flat. “You’re not very smart either.” “But… But… I didn’t—“ His breath was hitching, the stress of the moment all hitting him at once. “Hey. Hey, don’t cry, OK? Don’t cry…” She reached into the purse she had with her and pulled out a hanky. Her command had the opposite effect, making Robin start to cry more, but she didn’t berate him. She only started to wipe at his face, trying to clean the mess. “You don’t bite Cole’s bait. Ever.”  She continued. Her voice was motherly, soothing now. “It’ll get you in more trouble than its worth. You’re new here?” Robbin nodded. “Um… Yeah… I…” She sighed. “Come on, we’ll get him patched up. He’s a feisty little bastard ain’t he?” She ruffled Robin’s hair, and despite being only a couple inches taller than him, Robin felt himself looking up to her as she helped him up. “Thank you.” Cradling his exhausted friend, Robin followed her into the Pokémon Center, the crowd parting around them with looks as confused as Robin felt.                 “Poor thing…” Nurse Joy said, taking Robin’s Poocheyna in her arms. “He’ll be OK, right?” Robin said, sounding more panicked than he intended. “Yes, yes! Of course! I’ve taken care of worse. It’ll be just a moment. OK, dear?” “A-alright.” He felt Sarah’s hand fall on his shoulder. “Let’s go get something at the café, OK? My treat.” Nerves eating at him, Robin sat at a table in the café, hands pulling and toying with the fabric of his hoodie. He focused on their movements intently. He had never felt guiltier in his life. When Poocheyna wanted to fight, he should have just picked the Pokémon up and ran. The Zigzagoon didn’t do nearly this much to him. He had once thought that Zigzagoon was strong, but if that Growlithe was that strong. He shuddered to think of how powerful Pokémon could really be. He looked up when he heard the clattering of a cup on the table. “Moomoo Milk. You look like a milk boy.” Sarah smile. “Thank you.” Robin smiled, and picked up the cup. He sipped at the milk, grateful for the cold feeling flowing into him. “I got some Roserade Tea. It’s not the best tea ever, but it’s definitely soothing after I get my temper in a flurry.” She had to adjust her frilly dress to sit comfortable, but she did so with an experienced grace. “You were so mad…” Robin said. “I can’t believe you hit him.” “It would not be the first time either! Cole sometimes gets a bloated head with people all around him never telling him no. Sometimes, he needs a good smack to remind him that there are others that are better than him.” Robin nearly choked, spitting out some milk in his cup as he tried to keep from laughing. “He does?” “Yeah, and who better than the best trainer in my age group? Guess how often Cole has beaten me. Guess.” Robin shrugged. He was more than OK with letting her do all the talking right now. “None. He tried to do a similar thing to me two years ago, and I whooped his Growlithe and Axew no problem. He tried a few more times over the years, but I think he just gave up.” She smiled at him above her cup. “You’re cute. No wonder he picked on you.” Once again, he nearly spit out his milk. “What?!” She sipped her tea. “You want to be a Pokémon trainer?” Regaining his composure, he took a large gulp of his milk before answer. “Y- yeah. I mean, that was my first battle with another trainer, but…” “You’re first? Wicked introduction. Wait. Hold up. This is wrong. Where’s my manners! I never even got your name and here you are about to tell me your ambitions. My name is Sarah James. And you?” She reached a hand out to him. “Robin. Robin May.” He took her hand and shook it. “Alright, Robin May. You’ve never fought a trainer battle before. Your Poocheyna is daring but pitiful. And you have no real strategy in a fight. Why would you ever want to be a trainer?” She eyed him up with genuine curiosity. It was hard to say no to her. It’d be like doing so to a mother, he felt, a very scary and potentially easily enraged mother. “Well, I want to go on an adventure.” “Oh?” She cocked an eyebrow. “Yeah. An adventure. I, well, for most of my life I was sick. I still kinda have a bad cough from it. My lungs aren’t great… We even moved out here from Hoenn thinking it might help them and keep the illness from coming back because of nicer air. That’s what my dad said at least…” he fell quiet for a moment, collecting his thoughts. “Because of me being sick, I wasn’t allowed out much. And when I was, my dad was never far. Only one time did I get far away from him, and luckily my Poocheyna was there to save me from a wild Pokémon ambush. I want to explore more though! I love being out there, away from home, and seeing new things!” “You gotta be tough, you know that right?” she said, taking a sip. “Kids go on adventures all the time, but it’s not always safe. In fact, some kids get in a whole mess of trouble that no Officer Jenny can get them out of.  Opportunistic adults, violent Pokemon… You look like you’d cry if you stepped on a pebble wrong. How old are you anyway? 9?” “I’m 11! And I can be plenty tough! And that’s why I have Poocheyna there to defend me when things get really rough right?” “Same age as me? That’s hard to believe. Never met a boy shorter than me, but if you say so. Think about it though. Your Poocheyna couldn’t even handle a boy one year older than you against a Growlithe that hasn’t even evolved yet. Anybody worth their salt will wipe the floor with you…” He remembered the blood from that gash. How easily Growlithe thrashed Poocheyna around… Robbin’s shoulders sagged. He looked down at his glass of milk, half- full. “Sorry.” He muttered. “Ha!” The sudden laugh from her startled him. “For what, Robin? For dreaming? It’s endearing. I just need to know what your plan is. You can’t just go picking fights with trainers willy-nilly. Your Poocheyna deserves a smarter trainer, and I can help.” Robin beamed. “Really?” “Of course! I think I’ll teach you some basics of battling. If we can get some wind under your wings, you might stand a chance. While I’m not sure about an adventure, we might be able to get you caught up with other trainers here, someday.” “Do you really mean it? I don’t know what to say.” Robin spoke breathlessly, excitement bubbling in his belly. She waved a hand. “Don’t mention it. Let’s say I swing on by tomorrow, pick you up and bring you over to my house.” “I’ll have to talk to Dad about it, but if he says yes, that’d be great!” She smirked. “I want to say fuck what your Dad says, but in your circumstance, I get it.” “Excuse me,” A third voice chimed. The two look up and see Nurse Joy standing over them. A happy Poocheyna sat in her arms, tail out and tongue panting. “Poocheyna!” Robin jolted up. “You’re OK!” He yipped back and jumped into Robin’s arms. The Pokemon nuzzled close. “Thank you, Nurse Joy,” Sarah said. “Of course. Anytime,” Nurse Joy smiled back before leaving them alone. “Finish your Moomoo Milk, Robin, then I’ll head back home with you. Cole and his gang shouldn’t bother you for the rest of the day, but we shouldn’t risk it.” Robin agreed, and sat back down at the table. He sipped at his milk, enjoying petting his resting Poocheyna. I’ll do better, Poocheyna. Robin thought to himself. That’s a promise.   They arrived at the apartment complex as the sun was starting to set. Robin led the way, leading her to his new place even though he wasn’t entirely sure he had the right door. He knocked. “Coming!” he heard his father’s voice cry. Robin sighed in relief that he didn’t just embarrass himself more in front of Sarah. The door opened to reveal the tall man. Inside, most of the boxes seemed to be unpacked, but a good few still lingered, scattered about. “Robin! You were out for longer than I thought—Who’s this?” He opened his mouth to respond, but Sarah beat him. She stuck out a hand to him, and quickly said, “Names Sarah James! Robin’s new friend. You must be his father, Mr. May? He told me about you!” His father was stunned. Robin giggled, glad he was not the only one that was caught off guard by her. “Oh? Um… Alright then! Nice to meet you Sarah! I hope it was all good things, but thank you for keeping my boy company.” “Not a problem, Mr. May. He’s a nice kid! I see you’re still rather busy with the unpacking, so I won’t come barging in.” She turned and shocked Robin further by wrapping him in a hug. “Take care, OK? Hope to see you tomorrow!” And just like that, she was striding down the hallway, skirts flowing and head held high. Not a single thing fazed her. Robin was forced back to reality when Poocheyna leapt from his arms and darted into the house. From the doorway, Robin saw him jump onto the couch and let out a long yawn before falling asleep nearly instantly. “I guess,” his dad said, “You should follow his lead, eh? Come on in; it’s your house too.” Robin walked inside, as his dad continued to talk. “She seems interesting…” “Yeah. She’s definitely different. But she’s really kind. She even bought me Moomoo Milk!” He gasped. “Did you two go on a date?” “Dad! No! I don’t like her like that!” “You sure? Crushes are normal…” “Dad!” He threw his hands up defensively. “Sorry! Sorry! I’m just playing with you anyhow. How was the city? Did you run into any trouble?” “Nothing Poocheyna couldn’t handle!” Robin boasted, lying through his teeth. Poocheyna’s tail thumped against the couch in approval, and Robin giggled. “Hey! So I was wondering… Could I go over to Sarah’s house tomorrow? She said she would be over tomorrow to get me, and I really, really want to.” His dad paused, his face looking dejected. “I don’t know. I was hoping we could hang out or something. After all, I haven’t gotten a good look around yet, and I’d love to do some shopping with you…” Robin ran and hugged him tight. “Pleeeeaaaase, Dad! Please! This is my real chance at making friends here! And I don’t want to miss it…” His father was quiet, hesitating. Then, after a time, he returned the hug. “Alright. Alright. We’ll have time to do all that later, I suppose. I forget myself sometimes. It’s a fresh start, and that calls for fresh beginnings, right? She reminds me a bit of your old friend Lisa, so I know you need this. Just let me pack you a lunch so you don’t have to burden them to feed you alright?” “Sure! Definitely!” Robin nodded. Then, standing on tippy toes, he hopped to give a small peck on his father’s cheek. He doubted asking for food would burden Sarah’s family at all seeing as they had a yacht, but whatever made his father happy. “Good! Now go unpack your stuff. It’s all in your room, and I don’t want much left to do tomorrow!” he gave Robin a swat on the butt to move him along, eliciting mix between a squeak and a laugh. “Thank you, Dad! Thank you so much.” Robin said in the doorframe of his room. His father smiled, and shook his head. In his heart, Robin wondered if every day in Alola was going to be as strange as this one was. As he watched his tired Poocheyna get up and pad over to him, Robin just hoped that they wouldn’t be as hard on his friend as they were this time at the least. He’d make sure of that. ***** In Training ***** Chapter Summary Sarah seems to see a great amount of potential in Robin and takes the boy under her wing. What started as a simple visit to train his abilities to command his Poochyena quickly turned into a sleepover where a great opportunity is presented to him. The possibility of adventure. As the night progresses, Robin soon learns a lot about Sarah. Her parents, her home-life, and her hobbies in fashion, which soon involves Robin as he is called on to wear an outfit he never imagined he'd ever see on himself, but maybe should have. Sarah’s house lay on the outskirts of the city, and it was clear why. The yard alone was a marvel. Topiaries shaped like various Pokémon lined a sidewalk that snaked its way through beautiful flower gardens and man-made streams. The grass itself was pristine, a pure, uniform green with not a single blade out of place. In the flowers, yellow bug type Pokémon dashed in and out of the plants, stopping to suck quickly at nectar before darting away. Robin almost missed in the thick of the flora a strange bunch of birds as well red, yellow, pink, and blue. They swayed like dancers and sung in light voices. “What are they…?” Robin asked, awestruck. “You really are new, aren’t you?” Sarah said, walking in front of Robin as she led the way. She did not look back as she answered. “My parents like to keep a lot of native Pokémon on their property that they like. Those in the flowers are Cutieflies. Quick little guys, they are. And the birds are Oricorio variants. They might look peaceful but honestly, I don’t like them. They get angry too quickly.” Robin chuckled. Just like a certain somebody. “What?” She asked, turning this time. “Nothing!” Sarah’s eyes squinted at him, but she turned back to head to the house on this massive property. The house itself certainly stood tall in its own right. What seemed to be a three-story abode, it had tan, stucco walls with green ivy decorating the exterior. It had a warm feeling, but its size was simply outstanding. Robin wondered how such a house didn’t get lonely in there. Did any rooms simply go unused? His hand drifted down to touch the Pokeball in his shorts pocket. Poochyena usually never wanted to be in his ball, but this time Robin felt it best not to risk Poochyena wandering free this time. He did not need to get into another fight. “So how do you plan on helping, Sarah?” “Well, I had a little idea.” They had reached the front porch. Digging in her purse, Sarah pulled out a house key which she used to let herself in. “Sometimes one of the biggest things we can give our Pokémon in a battle is confidence and surety—Mom! Dad! I’m home! Having a friend over!” “Hi, hun!” Two voices seemed to call from the depths of the home. Robin could not begin to guess from where. The interior was just as beautiful as the exterior if not more so. The annex’s granite floor shined to the point where Robin could see himself. Vases stood on cabinets, all holding beautiful flowers that made Robin want to sniff them. A serene, white Vulpix sat by a wide stair case that climbed up to the second floor that made Robin’s heart flutter with how cute it looked. Must be another Alolan specialty… On the walls, there were portraits of very important looking men and women. They stood with serious, grim faces. Some had Pokémon posing with them, but not even they seemed overly happy. Such a beautiful house looked over by such gloom. “Let’s head to the backyard.” “Who’re they…?” “Hm?” Robin gestured at the paintings. “Oh. Them… Ancestors. Grandpas, grandmas. They look like fun people, don’t they?” “I mean, they certainly look interesting.” “You can say it.” Robin twisted his hands together. The eyes from the pictures seemed to burrow his back. “They look mean,” Robin admitted. “Well, I can’t attest for how nice or mean they are, but most of my family doesn’t seem to have changed much! I can’t for the life of me imagine my parents looking like one of them, though. This way.” She led him through a door that led to what looked to be a dining room. Instead of tile, a blood red carpet lay on the floor with a table made of some dark, dark wood. A glistening chandelier hung over head. As they moved through it, a thin layer of dust over everything caught his eye. “I know what you’re thinking.” “Huh?” “You think we’re rich.” They pushed through a swinging door into a large kitchen. Not a single person was working in it. “Well, I guess if we sold this house we would be,” Sarah continued. “But it’s a family home. Been in this family for generations. My parents are well off, but they’re not millionaires. Only staff we have here are the people who make sure the lawn looks the way it does. Don’t expect some butler to show up and wait on you hand and foot.” She turned her head and winked. Finally, out the back of the kitchen, they came to a wide backyard. A large pool sat sparkled in the ground, a Dratini statue spitting water into it. Perfectly square hedges lined the outmost edge of the backyard. “Alright. One day of training isn’t going to magically turn you into a great trainer. But I can teach you how to actually be a trainer instead of whatever that was the other day,” Sarah said. She headed to a wide, grassy space with not decorations of any kind. “Go! Popplio!” From a Pokeball, out came a blue Pokémon with a bright red nose. When released, the Popplio stood on its tail and clapped, happy to be front and center. “My first Pokémon, by the way. The professor of this island, Professor Kukui, gave her to me when I showed interest in becoming a trainer. This little girl right here has won me many battles. But,” and she turned to Popplio, “this isn’t a battle, alright? Don’t go all out on him.” The Popplio turned to Sarah and smiled. Giving an affirmative nod. “Aaro!” “Ok, Poochyena, come out.” Robin took the ball from his pocket and released his friend. When Poochyena came out, Robin expected the Pokémon to start running around the new, spacious area, but he did no such thing. Instead, it trotted over to the Popplio, sniffing with his tail wagging. “Looks like he likes your Pokémon, Sarah,” Robin chuckled. “Goodness! That is actually adorable!” Sarah jumped, clapping her hands together. “I guess our Pokémon are instant friends like us!” “M-maybe!” Robin rubbed the back of his head, blushing. “I’m going to be honest though,” Sarah suddenly said, a serious cast falling on her face. “Your Poochyena isn’t that strong.” “Hey!” Robin shouted. He looked at his Pokémon, who seemed to not hear and was now bouncing around with Popplio. “Poochyena’s just aren’t known for being super tough, Robin. For a number of reasons. For starters, he isn’t evolved. My Popplio isn’t either, and for that reason I’d say my Popplio isn’t going to be able to beat everyone. Second, he has no good moves yet. At least you never used any if he did. Now. You can work around this with howl, which was a good way to kick things off in your previous battle, which makes some moves stronger. Bite also has its uses, sometimes stunning an opponent and allowing you to get another command in. But nothing in Poochyena’s arsenal is going to KO a trainer’s whole party. Cuteness and drive only take you so far, and that goes for both your Poochyena and you.” “I’m not cute! Why do you keep calling me that…?” Robin pouted. “But fine then. If Poochyena can’t win battles, what’s the point of all this.” “That freckled face pouting… You’re like an Eevee, Robin, so stop denying it. Sorry, sorry, I get carried away. I never said you can’t win any battle though.” “I’m confused.” “Let’s get set up like we’re about to battle, then you’ll see.” “Right.” Robin nodded. “Poochyena, come here.” Poochyena barked and trotted over, sitting in front of Robin. Sarah asked the same of Popplio who looked mildly disappointed about ending playtime to sit in front of Sarah. “Now,” Sarah said to Popplio, “I want you to dodge everything, OK?” Popplio nodded. It bent down, whole body tensing up. “Robin, go ahead. Throw everything you have at Popplio here. I bet you won’t land a single hit.” “Then why should I?” Sarah smiled. “Just do it.” He sighed. “Ready then, Poochyena?” Poochyena barked, then set its stance, his body accepting the new challenge. “I think… Tackle it!” And Poochyena sprinted, barreling at the Popplio full speed. Leaning back on its tail, the Popplio, however, bounced up, barking in a way that seemed almost laughter. Poochyena ran straight under it, looking up in shock. “Bite it then, Poochyena!” Robin ordered. The Poochyena obeyed. It leapt at the Popplio, but the nimble water-type simply moved a bit in the air, just enough to escape the jaws of Poochyena which clicked together loudly. Stunned by its miss, Poochyena fell hard on the ground. The Popplio fell with grace. She landed on her tail and bounced happily on it, clapping. That wasn’t enough to stop Poochyena though. Its eyes glowed with fury as it bounced back yup, growling. Then, without order, it charged. “Poocheyna! Stop that!” But the Pokémon didn’t listen. It kept chasing after the Popplio which danced away like this was all one big game. That only infuriated Poocheyna more whose moves became more and more aggressive, quick, and sporadic. Again and again, it tried to bit Popplio and failed. Jaws clacked on thin air. “What are you doing?” Robin’s voice shook. “Why aren’t you listening!?” He fumbled for the Pokeball. “Come back! Come back if you won’t listen!” But he wouldn’t even do that. “Don’t worry,” Sarah said, voice flat and calm. “He won’t hurt Popplio.” “But I’ve never seen him so angry, Sarah!” “He’s frustrated.” “About what?” He was starting to yell. “About not knowing how to win. Popplio! Water gun to snap him out of it!” Following the order to a key, Popplio let out a spray of high pressure water that slammed right in the face of Poochyena. The Poochyena tried to fight it, standing in the grass with claws dug into the soil, but the water pressure got stronger and stronger until finally the ground was lost below him. The Poochyena flew before thudding onto the grass. Poocheyna got on his feet, and hung his head, tail drooping. “He’s upset with himself, Robin.” “Why? It’s my fault, not his.” “He doesn’t see it that way. You’re giving him the orders, but he doesn’t think he carries them out right. You tell him to dodge, and he gets hit. You tell him to attack, and he misses or ends up doing no damage.” She walked to her Popplio and knelt down, petting her head. “Pokémon desire to protect their trainers, especially those they love.” “Like when Poocheyna saved me from the wild Zigzagoon…” “Exactly. Except he’s finding himself not battling wild Pokémon but instead trainer Pokémon who have move orders issued with strategies and skills developed with drive and purpose.” She picked her Popplio from the ground, holding it in her arms as she stood. Robin moved to Poochyena. He sat on the floor, tears welling in his eyes. He hated how he always cried. Other kids always mocked him for being a crybaby, but he could not help it. Poochyena noticed his trainer sitting by him and crawled onto his lap. “The problem is you just call out commands willy-nilly. There needs to be a goal in what you’re calling before you do it. If you call tackle, there better be an idea of what your opponent will do in turn. Your Poochyena might not know what to expect, but you should.” She was right. Every move he had called had either been because he had seen it happen before or he knows it’s a damaging move. Tackle, bite, tackle, bite, there was no rhyme or reason to it. “Poochyena,” Robin said, “It’s not your fault, OK? It’s all mine. You’re doing great.” Poochyena turned its head away from Robin in disagreement. “No, you need to believe me. It’s my fault, OK? I thought you knew that… When we lose, it’s my fault, not yours. I know you do things on your own, so you take the blame when things don’t work out… But I’m the trainer. It falls on me to make sure what you’re doing works. You have enough to worry about in the middle of fighting.” Poochyena looked back at Robin, eyes glowing. Robin wasn’t sure if Poochyena believed him, but he could feel the Pokémon’s tension disappear. “Of course…” Robin looked up to see Sarah over him. “You two are completely out of sync also which doesn’t help. That only comes with practice though. It’s a good sign that Poochyena will mostly follow orders from you, especially if you can keep his head cool. There are so many ways find that rhythm though as you and your Pokémon grow closer.” “Like what?” But Sarah only giggled. “You’ll find out what works. All trainers do… So let’s try another round. This time, take it slower and try to praise Poochyena more. Make him feel like he’s doing things right throughout the fight, and remember he’s doing this for you. He clearly loves you a lot and will give it his all.” “Well, Poochyena? If you don’t want to, it’ll be fine. It’ll just be practice for me. Trying to learn how to guide you in battle so you don’t get hit or miss.” Robin looked in Poochyena’s eyes and Poochyena his. Poochyena nodded. In Robbin’s lap, he jumped up and gave Robin a lick on the cheek before bounding down. “Great!” Robin shouted. He rubbed away the remaining tears, smiling ear to ear. “Let’s just have fun with it!” “Now you’re getting it!” Sarah said. “Better get started then. We don’t have all day!” “Yeah!”  And the two ran to position, Popplio and Poochyena facing off, both ready for commands.   They had practiced till the sun had begun to set over Alola, bathing the whole area in a deep orange glow. Bug Pokémon began to scream their calls, ringing out in loud echoes. It was a kind of feel that could only be found here in Alola, and Robin knew to appreciate every moment of it. This was his new home, after all. Poocheyna and Popplio had been going at it the whole time. Robin’s throat was sore from issuing commands, and water puddles scattered the backyard from Popplio’s water attacks. Poocheyna panted, chest heaving as he had just undergone one of the biggest workouts of his life. The Pokémon was scuffed up and dirty, but certainly was not hurt. The Popplio too looked worn out, but a determined set in her eyes and smile on her face made it clear this whole time she had been have fun. “You’re getting it.” Sarah beamed. “You think so?” “Yeah. You’re getting to know Poochyena and how he battles.” “Yeah…” “And it looks like Poochyena appreciates it!” As if to confirm what Sarah said, Poochyena yipped and his tail wagged. “Now for my payment…” Sarah said, a devious laugh escaping her lips. “Payment?!” “Of course, you think I’d give this lesson for free? Don’t’ worry. You’ll love it! You hungry?” “I, well, yeah I could eat…” “Great! There’s been a change of plans.” She began to walk towards Robin, and for a moment, he felt nervous deep in his gut. “Call your dad.” From her purse, she dug a phone out that she handed to Robin. “Ask him if you can stay the night. A sleepover! And I won’t take no for an answer!” All the nervousness in Robin’s gut left him, the void it left quickly being refilled with excitement. A sleepover?! I’d never had one before! “Is this the repayment?” Without hesitation, he took the phone. “I’d say part of it, at the least.” The phone rung once… twice…. “Hello?” his dad picked up. “Hey, Dad! It’s me Robin.” “Robin? Is everything OK? Do you need me to come and get you?” “No, no. Everything is fine. I was… wondering if I could spend the night here.” The phone went quiet for a moment. He became sure his father would say no until his voice came back on the line. “You’ve never spent the night at someone’s house before. Will you be alright?” “I’m sure I will be.” “Even without your stuffed animal?” “Daaad….” Robin groaned. “Well, I’ll swing by and drop off a spare outfit, PJs, and your bathroom stuff. It’s the least I can do.” “Thank you so, so, soooo much!” “I’m just glad to see you making friends so quickly. Let me know the address and I’ll be over in a flash.” Robin did just that and hung up, and then handed the phone back to Sarah. As if on cue, Robin saw a woman stand in the doorway to the house. “Sarah! Dinner’s ready! Will your friend be staying with us?” “Yes, Mom! We’ll be over in a second!” She shouted back. Then, to Robin, she said, “Did he say yes?” “Mhmm. He’ll be over with my clothes and toothbrush later” “Fantastic!” She exclaimed and grabbed Robin’s hand. With strength Robin did not think possible from her, she yanked him across the yard, Poochyena and Popplio trailing behind. As they approached the house, Robin’s nose was delighted with the smells of warm, home cooked food. His father could cook, but certainly not all that well. And as they passed through the kitchen, Robin’s eyes saw what he smelled. On the table was what looked like a fully cooked bird, roasted with a dark brown glaze. Mashed potatoes and pineapple slices seemed to compliment it on the side. Did they make this to impress him or what this just what they ate daily, Robin did not know. Then they came out to the dining room, where Robin saw Sarah’s mom and dad cleaning quickly. They wiped at the dining table, cleaning off the dust Robin had seen earlier. “You don’t have to clean to for me…” Robin said, awestruck. “It’s been way too long since we used this room, and it’s been a while since Sarah has had friends over too!” Her dad said. He was a portly looking man, balding. His eyes looked kind, however, and his face soft. Her mother too looked kindly as well with long, black hair that curled wildly. Her summer dress danced as she wiped the table. “Dad, you didn’t have to say that…” Sarah said, for the first time sounding embarrassed. “But thank you guys for doing this for me. I really appreciate it.” “Any time, sweetie,” her mom said. “Why don’t you two take a seat and I’ll bring out dinner. Looks like your Pokémon worked up an appetite as well. I’ll grab them something too. Be right back.” She ducked into the kitchen, and Robin took a seat next to Sarah. Across from them, her dad pulled out a chair and scooted in, eyeing Robin up. Robin was confused why the man looked so suspicious. Did he do something wrong? An awkward silence developed between the three of them until the father finally spoke. “You’re not planning on dating my daughter are you?” Sarah began to cough in a fit. Robin, stunned, almost fell off his chair. Why does everyone think I want to date her?! He’ll admit, he’s never even had a proper crush before. But now what did he do? Right beside him was Sarah, and if he said no, would she got insulted? “Dad, I’m going to stop you right there,” Sarah piped, rescuing Robin. “I like Robin as a friend, OK? I don’t think I want to date him. He’s sweet, but I want someone taller.” Robin thought, perhaps, that he could be insulted by the tall comment, but he ultimately felt relieved. He sighed, glad to have Sarah dodge that bullet for him. “Alright, alright. I’m just checking. After all, a girl and a boy having a sleepover? It raises a few eyebrows…” “Dad!” Sarah exclaimed. “Dinner’s here!” suddenly from the kitchen doors, her mom shouted. The swinging doors flew open as she brought out a shining silver platter. She placed it between them all, and opened up the lid to reveal the food Robin had spotted earlier. On silver plates, she distributed the food to everyone, leaving bowls of food on the floor for the Pokémon, and took a seat next to her husband. “So, you’re the Robin Sarah had talked about yesterday,” Mrs. James smiled warmly. “Did you want to be a Pokémon trainer like her?” “Yes, ma’am. She’s really good…” “That she is! And you’re from Hoenn?” “Yes, ma’am.” “So polite! Please, you don’t have to be so formal.” Mr. James barked a laugh, “God knows the rest of our family hates us for our lack of formality. You know, my comment about her not having someone over for a while, that’s not because she has no friends.” “Dad…” Sarah groaned. “It’s because she never invites them over! That’s all. Sarah enjoys her space, so it’s kind of interesting to see she brought you over after only knowing you for a day. You must be something special.” Her dad turned to her, and raised an eyebrow. Clearly there was more significance with Robin being here than he first thought. Robin heard Sarah sigh next to him, but she seemed to have accepted her father’s embarrassing speech and ate from her plate.  Why does she want me over if she doesn’t want others? “Since she’s 11 now, she’s been asking to go on her own Pokémon journey,” her father continued. “Really?” Robin said, looking at her. She just shrugged. “But we always told her,” Mrs. James chimed in, “that while we’re fine with it, going alone is really dangerous. Even with her skill at battling.” Dangerous? Every story I’ve heard was about how fun Pokémon adventures were… Why do people keep calling them dangerous? “Did you want go on one too, Robin?” Mrs. James concluded. “I mean… I really would, miss, but…” “Robin’s been cooped up,” Sarah butted in. “He’s been sick for a long time, and you can tell by how pale he is, he doesn’t go out much. He’s not even sure his dad will let him go though.” “Is that true, Robin?” Mrs. James gaped. Robin nodded. “Mhm. I’m not very strong, but that’s why I have Pokémon right?” “I was planning on asking him when the time was more right, but since we’re on the topic now,” Sarah said, “I was wondering if Robin and I could go on ours? We’re both 11. He’s got potential to be a competent trainer. And I think it’d be a big favor for him if we could get his dad to let him go. But I might need your help for it, Mom, Dad.” Robin was speechless. He sat there with a fork dangling in his fingers. He never would have thought Sarah would do this for him. He wanted to cry, but couldn’t let himself do that in front of her parents. He just couldn’t. Both of the parents were smiling wide. “Well!” Mr. James declared. “It’s only right that both boys and girls at the age of 11 go through the Island Challenges. We could not deny that chance from you two, and there’s no better way for Robin to truly feel like a citizen of Alola. If you need us to help convince his father, we’ll gladly do so.” “Thank you,” Robin said. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” “Hey, it’s no problem.” Without thinking, Robin turned in his seat and hugged Sarah. Shocked, she tensed up, but eventually eased in his arms and patted his back. “It’s no problem, Robin. Seriously it’s not. You don’t have to hug me like that.” He released her and took a deep breath. “Sorry. I just. I never thought I’d make such a good friend so fast here.” “How could you not, Robin. If I didn’t, who knows who would’ve snapped you up. Heaven forbid Cole decided to try and befriend you.” “Ick!” Robin shouted. “No way!” Sarah laughed, but didn’t respond. “By the way, Robin,” he heard Mrs. James ask after sipping juice from her glass. “Hm?” “How did you get that Poochyena? That surely is not one of the starters the professor of the region gives, correct?” “Oh! No. He was actually a wild Pokémon. It’s a long story, but we both helped each other and became friends. He used get kinda closes to the houses in my hometown, but was always too afraid to come into town. He didn’t look great when I would see him. He always looked hungry and had a nasty injury on his side that looked like it healed really badly. Since I couldn’t go too far from the house, I’d leave food out for him, hoping he’d eat at least. He would only eat when I left though, and whenever I tried to get close, he’d growl and snap at me. He wanted to be alone… “Well, one day, I was walking out of the house and I couldn’t stop coughing. It got so bad I couldn’t even stand anymore. I fell to the ground, and I remember just how badly my lungs burned.  He saw me and ran to me and started barking. He wouldn’t stop barking. Eventually my dad heard and took me in and gave me my medicine, but Poochyena tried to keep me safe. He got more and more comfortable with me feeding him until eventually he let me put him in a Pokeball and bring him to a Pokémon Center. After that, Poochyena always kept me safe. He got people for me if I get hurt. He defended me against bullies and other Pokémon. I really owe him a lot…” “Maybe he feels he owes you too in a way,” Sarah smiled before popping a piece of pineapple in her mouth. “It definitely seems like you two are destined friends,” Mrs. James said. Robin felt himself blushing and looking down at Poochyena who ate happily with his new friend Popplio. Robin’s heart surged with love for his little Pokémon. He was truly lucky. So what if Poochyena was not the strongest Pokemon? Robin could not ask for a better starter. “Yeah…” Robin responded to both of them, and took a bite from his potatoes. The rest of the dinner went great. They chatted happily, Robin learning that Sarah’s parents had been the only ones in her grandparents’ will to get the house out of the whole family. They also told him about the different things that the Alola islands do that would be different than in Hoenn, biggest of all being the Island Challenges. When he asked what they were, they told him that they were different than gym battles as they were not only battles. The Trial Captains could ask him to do anything. When all the food was eaten, Sarah pulled her chair back and asked politely to be excused, which her parents allowed. “Come on,” she gestured. “Put Poochyena in his ball for now. He could use the rest” She did so for Popplio, who went in easily. Sarah wasn’t wrong about him needing the rest either. He was so tired that the usually restless Poochyena simply let himself go in the ball, looking almost relieved. She led the boy up the staircase, and then down the hall. Robin saw paintings throughout this floor as well, mostly landscapes that showed all kinds of sceneries across the world. There was no denying that they were beautifully done, and he wondered if any were rare and expensive. There were many types of flowers in vases as well, so many that Robin did not recognize most of them. Were they all from Alola? Or imported from some other land? Door after door they passed. Most, surely, had to be locked and never entered. There was no way so many rooms could be used by a family of three. Eventually, Sarah led him to one door that wasn’t locked, her room. When they entered, Robin was shocked. Within, there was a massive bed with a drooping white canopy. On the bed, there sat countless stuffed Pokémon plushes. The floor was covered in a white, fluffy throw rug, which was covered in bolts of cloth and ribbon as well as a sewing kit, open to reveal needles and thread. Lining in the room were torso mannequins wearing dresses or costumes, and bookshelves that contained who knows what kinds of books. There, against the wall as well, sat a large white vanity with accessories and makeup abound sitting on it. “Sorry for the mess,” she said, removing her shoes here. “Make yourself at home!” Through the large window on the wall, Robin could see that the sun had fully set, night having taken over. He wondered how late it was, but he could not take his eyes off of the beautiful clothing everywhere. How do they afford this…? He wondered in awe. “My parents did not buy this for me by the way.” Sarah said. “What?” “I bought all this for myself. My parents have me support my own interests as best as I can.” “How could you afford this though?” “Pokémon contests!  Did you forget I said I’m one of the best in my age group? Some call me a genius, but I’m not that vain. I’m just better than most people in this town at battling and contests. I use the reward money on… well…” She gestured at everything in her room. “That’s amazing.” Robin said, star struck. “If we go on an adventure, you can be sure we’ll be winning and look great while doing it.” Suddenly, a knock was heard on the door. Sarah wen to answer it and there her mother holding a purple backpack. “Robin’s dad came by with this.” “Thanks, Mom.” She took the bag from her, and she left the two kids to themselves. Robin moved to take the bag from Sarah, but when he reached from it, she yanked it from his grasp. “Hey!” “Not so fast. You still owe me.” “Wait, I do?” “Don’t worry. I said you’ll like it, and I mean it. I mean. If you let yourself like it.” “What are you talking about…?” “I need you to simply do me a favor.” She strode to a door that was set into the wall, opening it up, she disappeared inside with Robin’s backpack, leaving him to stand confused. He heard rummaging, laughing. A sense of worry filled his gut. What have I gotten myself into? Then she emerged. Robin’s heart started beating faster and his face flushed when he saw what she was holding. No way. No way. In her hands she held a frilly, pure, white dress. Across the skirt, lace lined the ruffles of cloth, and the top looked like it was meant to hug the figure of the wearer. All of it meant to be held up by lacey straps. Even Robin, shocked as he was, had to admit it was such a pretty dress that looked like it was made by the hands of a professonal. “I made this,” Sarah said proudly. “A lady paid me to make a few dresses for her daughter who is about your size, and I want to make sure the fit is just right before I make the rest of them.” Robin took a step back, holding his hands up. “Wait, why me? I’m a boy! I can’t—“ She looked confused, but then understanding lit her eyes along with a smile that shown with mischief. “Of course you’re a boy, silly! I know this. But why does that matter?” “It matter because it’s embarrassing!” “Tsk. Tsk.” She said, shaking her head. She walked up and moved behind him. He felt her arms wrap around his waist and squeeze him tight. It wasn’t sensual, and it wasn’t flirty. It was comforting. “You worry about so many things, Robin.” Her hands came up to run through his hair. “Your hair is long for a boy.” Her hands then moved to cup his face. Robin’s eyes were wide and his face was a burning red. “Not only that, but your face. It’s so soft, Robin, even a girl would be jealous! Those freckles, and your lips. Look, all I’m saying is that any boy would be lucky to have you.” She looked at him with eyes that showed no deception. Her voice was caring, complimentary, as if all of this was supposed to grant him confidence. “Lucky to have a boy?! What are you?!” “Robin, if I touched any boy who liked girls like I just touched you I would have gotten a totally different reaction.” She waved a hand dismissively. “Trust me. Well. I guess I could be wrong. Maybe you do like girls. Tell me, have you ever had a crush on a girl before, Robin?” Her hands released his face and instead grabbed his heads. She looked down at him, and Robin was not able to look at her. He racked his brain. The only other girl he had been close to was Lisa, and people always teased him, saying he had a crush on her. But he never did. He only saw her as a friend. And other boys in the neighborhood always talked about girls they liked, and he was never sure what that even meant! “I don’t know,” Robin said. “It doesn’t matter. You’ll know when you know, but the point is, you’re really cute Robin. A perfect canvas. Please let me see what I can do?” “But…” She bounced his hands up and down. “Please! I promise I won’t make fun of you at all. No one will even see besides me, and you have to be curious what you might look like in a dress like this, right? Do it for a friend at least.” Robin’s eyes stared at his hands in hers. Even her hands were larger than his. His mind remembered a time when playing with Lisa and her dolls. They were young, maybe around 5, and Lisa wanted Robin to be her husband. She had given him a doll of a larger man, square jaw, and large muscles. She took a lady doll with short brown hair and a yellow summer dress. Robin wasn’t sure what he wanted, but he did not want to be her husband and he did not want that doll. He started tocry, throwing the doll away and refusing. No one could stop his waterworks, and eventually his dad had to take him home. When his dad had come to pick him up, he remembered sulking the whole walk back, whining “Lisa gets all the nice things. Lisa gets all the nice things.” Had he been curious? Maybe a little. Maybe a little curious to have what Lisa had. Robin’s head nodded quickly at the ground, blush intensifying. “Thank you, Robin! You won’t regret this!” Sarah turned and ran to her closet, stopping in the frame to tell Robin, “Strip.” “Can’t I just put the dress over my clothes…” “Nuh-uh! Doesn’t work like that! Strip!” Robin never thought his face could feel so hot. He looked at the door. He couldn’t run from this could he? No. She was his only friend here. He had to do this for her… How could he make her upset after what she had promised over dinner? He unzipped his hoodie, and took it from his shoulders. It crumpled to the floor. Over his head, he slipped off his yellow and red striped t-shirt, revealing his milky white chest with a little baby fat still giving him a little belly. A small cluster of freckles were splattered on his shoulders. The freckles too, his father said, he had gotten from his mother. Then he slipped his shoes and socks off, setting them to the side where he could find them easily later, before finally removing his shorts, showing thin legs. His whole frame was light and delicate, untouched yet by puberty quite yet. She came from the closet with a bundle of white in her hand. When she saw his almost naked body, she froze. He wondered what she was thinking, what a girl thought of his body. Finally, she seemed to shake herself back to reality. “I said strip, Robin, come on.” “I am!” He said. Goosebumps ran down his back as he felt chilly from being so exposed. Then, in a flash, she dangled white panties, smiling. “No you aren’t.” “No! No! I don’t need to take my underwear off! Come on!” he whined. “Robin…” Her eyes took on a harsh glare, staring at him. “But I… But….” He could maintain eye contact. He felt bad, guilty even, for telling her no. His hands went to his waistband and slowly dropped his briefs. They pooled at his feet, and he stepped out of them. His hands drifted to cover his boyhood. The red in his face had spread to his ears and shoulders. “Thank you, Robin!” She beamed, happy. At least she is… Robin thought. He wasn’t sure if the thought was bitter or glad. “Put these on, OK?” Her voice was gentle, reassuring. Robin expected her to start laughing at him, tease him for how weak he looked. But not a single bit of a mocking tone was in her voice. She handed him the panties as well as two long socks with frills around the top. Hesitating only a second before realizing wearing panties was better than being naked, he brought the panties up, noticing the slight bulge in them from where his penis was. Then the socks, which made his legs look even softer. “Hands up.” She ordered from behind him, and Robin listened. He expected the dress, but instead something tight was slipped over his head and his arms were forced out of elastic straps. He found himself looking down to see, around his chest, a pink training bra. “Wait, why?” He turned, asking her. “The dress expects the wearer to have a little bit of breasts. Don’t worry about it. Arms up again.” Robin was done arguing. He simply looked down, surprised at how different just the slight bump the training bra gave him made his chest look. Then the dress was pulled over him. It slid over his head and body easily, and Robin stared fascinated at the skirts that swished around his hips, draping to his knees in waves. She slipped his arms though the dress’s straps and adjusted them to hide the bra straps before zipping up the back of this dress. The area of the dress that fit his chest and hips felt tight, but the feeling of it hugging him like it did caused a rush of giddiness in him that he could not explain. “Now finally, the shoes, OK?” He nodded, and she brought out a pair of flats that she assumed was his size. They were, and they slid on effortlessly. Taking him by the shoulders, she turned him to look at the vanity. In the mirror, he struggled to see himself. His face was the same, but his figure, usually hidden by the hoodie, now was emphasized. His legs looked odd poking out of frills and fabric. The socks aided in that effect as they close to his knees, and the shoes were flatter than his tennis shoes, making him look a little shorter. “You look amazing, Robin,” She gasped. Pushing his shoulders, she walked him to the bench and seated him in front on the mirror. “I’m going to go all out with this, OK? I’m dying to know what you look like now, no holding back.” Robin nodded, transfixed with the reflection. He even noticed the pink bra strap showing, working its way from under the white strap of the dress, and finding it oddly cute. She went to work on her new canvas. First, she started on his nails, applying a pink nail polish with precision. She told him to leave his fingers rested, spread out on the vanity’s top could dry while she worked on his face, and he did as she bid.  Then she went about applying subtle makeup. Eyeliner and mascara to emphasize his eyes. A light blush was added to his cheeks, blended with an expert flair. She had done more complicated things than this in her sleep, it was clear. Even his lips were not spared as a subtle pinkish-red hue was applied. Then, not just satisfied changing his facade, a brush was taken to his hair, combing it and combing it, allowing the natural waves in it to come out fully that now seemed to bounce around his face and neck in ways he never thought it could. He had watched the whole process attentively, curious, but when he saw the final face looking at him, he almost didn’t know it was Robin staring back at himself. What looked at him, he thought, was a very pretty girl. “Don’t say a thing,” her voice was so low, it was almost a whisper. “I know you won’t admit it, but I can see it in your eyes. You love it.” He didn’t know what to think. He didn’t know what he should feel. He knew that if anyone had seen him, he’d feel completely humiliated. The boys in his home town would have laughed at him relentlessly. A boy looking like this? It was the worst thing possible. But his body felt… good? There was a tingling sensation that ran over his whole body that just felt good. It was as if he was seeing a part of himself that he never thought possible. “Can you do me one more favor?” “I… think so.” “I want you to stay in that tonight, OK? I need to see how this looks in situations outside of just the mirror.” “O-ok...” “Attaboy! I’ll get your bed and blanket set up and then we can play some video games all night. I think you’ve earned a little R&R. How’s that sound?” Robin nodded. “I’d like that.” He was glad she liked how he looked. He was glad she was happy with him. No matter how he felt, which he wasn’t really sure of yet, he was glad she liked him like this. On the lush carpet she set up an air mattress for him. He had heard her dad offering to help down the hall, but she put her foot entirely down, refusing to let him anywhere close to the room. He felt endlessly grateful for that. They sat on that air mattress to play on a large TV that was placed into the wall. After a while, the bra began to feel a bit uncomfortable, digging into his shoulders, but he did not mind keeping it on. The dress itself felt really nice. The material wasn’t itchy, and it kept his legs cool. The panties even felt soft against his crotch and pleasantly cupped his butt, making him wonder why this was not more commonly worn by other boys. Sarah beat him in more rounds of the fighting game they had chosen then he expected, but it was OK. The two were laughing, enjoying themselves the whole time in a childish bliss of fun. Neither looked at the clock, and no parent came to the door to tell them it was bedtime. Eventually, sleep loopiness got to them and the worst jokes started cracking the two up. They even began to pretend the fighting characters were characters in some goofy play, acting out the parts is exaggerated fashion. Then, Robin had adjusted himself to be more comfortable, laying down on the bed to relax his back, but that was all he remembered after that. Sleep had taken him before he had even realized it had arrive, and curled up on the air mattress, he dozed.   Sarah was still awake when Robin had fallen asleep. She made no effort to stop him. She even started to quiet down when she noticed he was dozing off, letting him relax more and more till his eyes shut and his breathing slowed. It was OK. He has had a tiring past few days after all. She did not know what had compelled her to save him from Cole. She would not have done it for anyone else, but there was something different in the way Cole battled him, an intensity that she had never seen in Cole before. It worried her. Cole felt like he owned the city. The older boy knew the layout, all the nooks and crannies. He became skilled at battles by picking fights like he wanted to be the best around, but when she asked if he ever wanted to be a trainer and go through the Island Challenges, he said no. Cowardice or some sense of responsibility must’ve stopped Cole, but nothing of the kind was stopping this Robin boy. He was shy, introverted, and non-confrontational, but at least he let things happen. She felt proud more than anything, watching this boy start to enjoy wearing the outfit she had chosen for him. He had bought her lie. Sure she had made the outfit, but it was not for a customer. She had simply outgrown it. She just wanted to see what he looked like dressed as he was. With face and hair like he had, how could she ever possibly resist? It was not lost on her that he never brought it up his new look once the game started. She got a feeling that Robin enjoyed wearing this more than he did his normal clothes, but she understood why he’d deny that if she asked. Good to know though that there was potential to try this again someday. This was more fun than she ever expected. Perhaps, she even wondered, when they are far from this town on their future journey, she could get him to dress like this in other towns? She wondered if Robin could pass as a girl if he wanted to. As the boy slept, he looked like a doll, artfully crafted. His hair spread out like a halo.There was no lie when she said any boy would find him irresistible. People would think she needed someone there to protect her from any shady characters on their journey, but in truth, he would need her, without a doubt. She, of course, could not sleep on the floor, and she certainly would not stay awake alone. Instead, she got herself ready for the night as she normally did, and then climbed into her own soft bed, falling asleep not long after.   When Robin woke up that morning, he realized a number of things. First, he was still wearing everything. His face felt odd, and he was sure the makeup did not make it out intact. His hair had gotten wild from bed head. Worried, he looked at the dress, concerned he had ruined the dress that Sarah had made for a customer. “It’ll be fine,” Sarah spoke behind him. “Good morning, sleepy head.” “How long had I been asleep…?” “Long enough for your dad to get a bit worried. We should get you home.” Robin agreed, trying to wipe the sleep from his eyes, but only managing to get mascara on the side of his hand. She got him dressed again, putting on the outfit that his father had packed in the backpack he brought. The bra was surprisingly hard to get off, but Robin managed. Then, she snuck him to the bathroom to wash off the makeup, smeared from tossing and turning so badly that the mascara and eyeliner made it look like he had a black eyes. The lipstick too was smeared haphazardly on his cheek. When that was all wiped off, he jumped in the shower and brushed his teeth. He looked in the mirror and saw again the face of Robin in the familiar, sky blue hoodie. His hoodie. His shorts. His plain old face, ready to go back home. Sarah demanded, however, to comb his hair one more time. “It’s really soft,” she used as her excuse. Robin let her, enjoying her gentle hands running through his hair, wondering if his mother would have done the same. When they finished, Robin had left her house feeling refreshed and happy as he released Poochyena from his Pokeball. He had been most vulnerable with Sarah and had escaped feeling like he could trust her with everything. She may ask him to do things he may or may not want to do, but it was all worth her friendship. Sarah left him at the doorstep to his apartment complex, and the two had hugged goodbye. Robin soon learned though, as he entered the apartment, they had forgotten to clean off the nail polish, as his father had pointed out. Flustered, Robin was left to make an exuse. The “It was a bet” excuse worked well enough, however, only ending with Robin suffering through skeptical glances from his father.   Please drop_by_the_archive_and_comment to let the author know if you enjoyed their work!