Lorna
Oh, Rika looked too much into it! How Irene seems to emit enigma made her thought it was something more deep. "You're right about that," Rika confirmed with the notion about simply sightseeing when going somewhere new. She's assuming the singer was new here. While Rika herself is new—a month new, really—she already met a few people here and there. Already went to places. But, there's still more to see. "Stargazing? Sounds lovely." Rika puts her head in her arms that are propped up by her knees in her sitting position, keeping her crimson eyes locked on Irene who's gotten up and cradling the Azuril in her bosom like a mother would. "Just lovely. If you don't mind, kiddo, I have a place that sounds right for the job." It was a suggestion not needed to take. Still, it's up there. However, before she could say, the reminder of the lost Azurill was brought up.

Agreeing that it should be reunited with its mother as soon as possible, Rika gets up, stretching herself with her arms above her head. The bits of sand stuck onto the Azurill's bottom can be guessed that its kin was someplace down there. It was a good call. "Rika's coming~" She walks after Irene who was ahead of her before matching in step with the brunette. Now that the two of them are in their full length standing up, a glance from the taller green haired lady causes her to pat Irene's head once before leading the way. "Lessgo."

`The beach`

Once again, Rika keeps note of how oxfords aren't fitted for the sand, as each step sunk in, and bits of the minerals would go in with her socks. Though, she didn't pay it too much mind, going back to the mysterious Irene next to her while keeping eyes peel for an Azumarill or Marill at the least. "I didn't get your occupation. Heard this island invites only the best." And she laughs it off. "I'm flattered 'cause I know I've much to learn still. But-" Her shoulders go up and down in a shrug, her hands kept in her pockets. Her face turns south toward the ocean again a

Nd the hand in her pocket fiddles with a Pokéball, wondering if Cloddy her Clodsire would like a splash. "I can hold up to my title." Her gaze reverts back to Irene. "Somehow, I feel like you're an astronaut." And this was *A joke,* But her expression is so serious that it can be hard to tell if she believes so or *Hopes* So.

Azurill, the bundle ball of energy, jumps from Irene's arms again, bounding up to a couple Krabby that was spewing bubbles into the air. They carry with the breeze which has the baby Pokémon playing with it, causing Rika to stop and watch.
Carol
And my! Rika had assumed correctly, it hadn't even been a few days since she'd first set foot into the island. Heck, the fact that she was invited based on her accomplishments both as a Mt. Battlemaster AND being one heck of a musician dumbfounded the brunette. She was well aware of the air of mystery that loomed around her, and simply owned up to the fact that this was her identity. The kiddo comment followed by their suggestion merely piqued her interest yet again as she raised a single brow. With a one sided shrug, Irene tilted her head briefly as her thoughts were preoccupied elsewhere upon being patted, when was the last time had done it to her? It was a nice change of pace, if anything. Though the change in demeanor only lasted for a moment, the musician would revert back to her usual self.

"Kiddo eh~? That's something I haven't heard in a long time." Irene kept that purposefully vague with one arm still cradling the bubbly Azurill, she'd use her free hand to cover her mouth in a feeble attempt to contain her laughter before her lips formed a rather tight lipped smile, an enigmatic one to be sure. Did she really look that young? It's quite flattering in all honesty! There was a hint of smugness in the mannerism by which she retorted back, and with raised eyebrows and a slightly tucked chin, she followed up. "I'd be lying if I said you didn't have my full, undivided attention now. If you've got somewhere that's more suited, then I'll have you take me there, and I won't be taking no for an answer.~ 𝅘𝅥𝅮" Though playful in her disposition, her tone of voice was somewhat assertive.

-

With the green-haired aldean standing to their full towering height in comparison, her other arm reverted back to its previous position to keep hold of the water type, careful so as to not hold them too tightly to the point where it's uncomfortable. Her fixed gaze now follows along Rika's each and every move as the much taller of the pair lead the way down, past the steep cliffs and towards the sandy beach! Moving along in a similar pace in a leisurely manner before their inevitable arrival.

`The beach!`

With the bright, shining star known as the scorching sun rising further up into the sky and casting its blinding light upon the pair, the musician would take a moment to take in the new biome around her. Her shoes began to slowly sink into the damp sand while her eyes feasted upon the small, harmless waves crashing against the shore just a bit south from where they stood. The sea breeze playing with her hair as she slowly breathed in the salty air! Though there were no beach shops and the like set up, and the denizens of this particular place was filled with just Pokémon. With her shoulders now back, and her chin was up, she enjoyed this momentary bliss until Rika began talking once again. Her occupation? She intently listened as the ground-type specialist decided to opt for the humbler approach. Somehow, it was more heartwarming seeing others act like that. Opting to stay quiet up to the point where Rika's gaze met her own, and upon listening to their initial guess, the brunette figured that it would've been more fun to keep the guessing game going. Cocking her head in Rika's general direction, she would waggle her eyebrows relentlessly and stick her tongue out thereafter, completely making fun of them. An astronaut? Her? It's laughable!

-

"Bzzzzzzt!" Imitating a buzzer, her grip on the Azurill lightened up even more. Heck, she even resisted to open up her arms to jokingly taunt her newfound companion, judging by how serious they looked, Irene figured she ought to nudge the elite four member in the right direction. But nah, this was more fun.

"A little off the mark there!" The musician exclaimed before heartily bellowing out. "I don't think I'm built for that sort of thing anyways! You've got to be a little taller and stockier to dance with the stars, wouldn't you agree?" As she said that however, the water-type suddenly jumped from her clutches and headed towards the Krabbies! Remembering her objective of being her in the first place to find its mother, she'd concoct a fun little scheme. A contest of some sorts! Fixing her gaze onto the gargantuan boulder just a few minutes of walking away, she'd begin to set the ground rules. 

"Say, care a little wager?" Her gaze immediately turned to Rika's crimson orbs, maintaining direct contact. "If you win, I'll tell you what it is I do for a living. If **I** Win, you'll take to that place you mentioned earlier when we were at the cliffs! The objective? Simple! Whoever finds this little fella's parents wins! Easy enough, right 'kiddo'?" Rubbing the nape of her neck for a brief moment before taking a pose somewhat akin to a cowboy, each of her thumbs found their way atop where her waistband would be, her face showed nothing but sheer confidence that she was going to win this. After all, the brunette knows something that the ground specialist probably doesn't. Only the most astute of observers would pick up on what had just dawned to the musician at this very moment. Was Rika as keen? Irene didn't know nor care, but this should prove to be entertaining enough for both of them.
Lorna
The elite four member snickers from Irene's response. She's an energetic one! Whimsical, like mentioned before, and truthfully, she was enjoying the company of the other. "Oh yeah? Taller and stockier, you say?" Rika has her own two cents on that, her jest was going to go on about how *Short* People can get stretched thanks to space and it's lack of gravity. But by the quick pace of the other, they were moved onto a *Game.* The deal seemed too much in Rika's favor. It's not like the area of suggestion for stargazing was a secret. However, having to place a wager simply just to find Irene's occupation is both interesting and endearing. "Sound's a pla-" What's that? The kiddo called *Her* A kiddo? The Paldean elite four member couldn't take it any longer. She guffawed, her voice ringing throughout the whole expansive area, enough to make Azurill turns its gaze and for the Krabbies to stop their bubble blowing for a second.

"You've spunk!" And she takes note of Irene glimpsing at the protrusion of a crag over yonder. Usually those that wants to play a game, while placing a bet, have the advantage of what to do already. Unfortunately for the other, Rika caught wind of her plans of scaling that terrain and gaining a Pidgey-wide view from it. At least, that was her assumption. Who knows? Maybe that glance was a trickery, and she had something else unexpected in her mind. Still, Rika makes no gesture aside from putting her hands in her pockets, her shoulders back and lax as her half-lidded eyes took in the singer in front of her. "With deals like that, I wouldn't mind whether I lose or not, since we'll by finding lil' Azurill's kin anyway. How 'bout adding an edge to it? Whoever wins has to treat the other to the most expensive dinner here." She winks with a cock of her head. "Along with me telling you *The place*, or your 'CIA' job, o'course."

Meanwhile, Rika already has a plan herself on how to find Azurill's family. She's not much a Marill or Azumarill pro, but

She does know that both Pokémon has great hearing since both has big ears. If they heard their baby's voice, maybe that'll bring them toward its direction. And, the possibility they were hunting for food in the ocean could be the reason the baby Pokémon got lost in the first place, being that the waves are ferocious and crashing on the cliff. So, while Irene could be running to that rock for a lookout, Rika would take that time to use her observations and knowledge. "Ready?" At this, Rika goes over to Azurill and lifts the Pokémon in her arms. It looked mystified at first, but the ground-type specialist's mellow smile has it smiling too.
Carol
You've spunk, eh? Seeing the bewilderment upon the elite four's face served as the perfect appetizer to the upcoming, metaphorical meal. Although, that aforementioned metaphorical meal was about to become literal in every sense of the word at the ground type-specialist's proposition. While SAT-LUN sat upon a ludicrous amount of cash in terms of credit, was she willing to spend some of it on the much taller, green haired trainer should she, hypothetically, lose?

Absolutely! Irene enjoyed Rika's company, despite the fact they'd only just met.

"That's perfectly fine by me, I'm just afraid your wallet wouldn't be able to handle it." Clasping her hands behind her back, the once 'badass' pose she had was gone, and her expression seemed to have softened, a curious glint can be seen from her eyes as the musician kept teasing the elite four member. "I'm quite the glutton you know." With her usual delivery, she hoped that Rika would ponder about how truthful she was as she shifted from one foot to another, slowly making her approach until Irene was all up in Rika's personal space upon them picking up the baby Azurill. Though the wink was rather adorable, or so Irene would come to find it, she kept the energetic vibe of their conversation going. If it was some other maiden, they'd probably melt right now. "And besides, the CIA, Interpol or whatever you want to call it aren't quite up to my standards." An obvious jest, but it's all for fun and games!

-

Taking a few steps ahead of Rika, and with a glance over her shoulder, the musician tipped her hat with one hand, hiding a meticulous intent behind her gaze.

"Ready!"

With that said, Irene would immediately head towards the massive boulder, demonstrating surprising lithe as she jumped from one rock to another before standing atop its rocky surface. Clearly, she was used to this.

-

Indeed, it was just as Rika had suspected. The brunette's vision caught the sight of a rather ferocious looking Crawdaunt terrorizing a couple of blue mice she sought after, with one single injured Azumarill standing in front of the pack, or was it school? Group? The musician didn't bother to figure out the correct term, semantics and all. Nonetheless, she knew she had to act now and so immediately rushed to Azumarill's aid. Chalking it up to just Pokémon being territorial wasn't going to cut it one bit. Within about a minute or so, the former Mt. Battlemaster had arrived, standing between the two water-types before Rika had even arrived. Her once vibrant aura that she'd exuded turned into something entirely different, something much more terrifying. An air of extravagance and strength seemed to surround her as soon as she turned to face the Crawdaunt. The brunette's expression was that of sheer disappointment as she jutted her chin, squinting her eyes while directly staring down the territorial water/dark hybrid, not even looking back to check up on the Marills and Azumarill behind her.

"You look like you've got nothing better to do." Irene's tone of voice was nothing short of threatening, prompting the Crawdaunt to grow even more violent, bringing its pincers closer to the musician. Yet, she remained unfazed. "Mind scuttling elsewhere? You're ruining a family reunion here." The tendencies of being the former Mt. Battlemaster still remained rooted in her personality, as best as she tried to keep it under lock and key.

It wasn't a question that she posed, it was an order. And that provoked the wild Pokémon to strike after originally shrinking from fear, pinching its pincers and unleashing a loud battle cry as they'd begun to glow. Although Irene could've just unleashed Snorlax, her beloved Snores, right then and there.

Somehow, Irene knew everything will be just fine.- She was accustomed to danger ever since setting foot in Orre, this was nothing.
Lorna
A raise brow and a chuckling shake of her head was response to Irene's assumption of her finances. Surely, she had enough to spend on a meal but it depends how *Expensive* It's going to be. Rika wasn't scared to splurge since she barely did it herself, but if it's going to be the cost of her limb- no thank you. Although, may it be provocation on her part or not, it had Rika wondering if this female near her has a high paying job herself. "Ha! Well, you'll pay for your words, since you'll be eating them!" It's not often Rika quipped so directly aside from her suave passive aggressiveness, but she has the feeling the brunette can handle it. 


...

As soon as the word of confirmation left Irene's mouth, Rika didn't even have the time to *Blink* Before the girl had gone and scale that crag. "Wha—" It took another wasted second more when she realized her mouth was near agaped from the speed of the singer, before collecting her cool and glancing at the ocean beside her, admittedly in desperate determination of defeating her opponent in her own game. But in her attempt to avert her gaze, a few blue colored Pokémon in the distance caught her attention. It was almost hard to distinguish, since smaller crags beside them hidden them from view, but they might as definitely be the missing Azurill's parents! "Found—" Rika started to shout before choking back the rest. What looked like a crag at first had seemingly smacked one blue Pokémon of the group to the sand. *Oh no.* It proved more so that these are the Azurill's kin, as the baby Pokémon cried from the sight, wriggling from the shock Rika's hold and bouncing quickly to its family's aid.

The ground-type specialist yelped when she realized before running after and scooping the baby Pokémon back in her arms in safe embrace. She was going to notify Irene, looking back up that tall crag before noticing she has vanished. Looking back toward the trouble, the brunette was already *There*, standing like a hero with herself ou

T to barricade any attacks that may continue toward **Azumarill** And its pack's way. It was a bold move but one without Rika assuming too reckless especially since the **Crawdaunt** Appeared aggressive. Its pincers glowed like light sticks as aqua laced it, having Rika predict the move "Crab Hammer," So she brought out her partner just in time as the wild Pokémon swung down its claw. "Cloddy, assistance!" In a flash, her ace Pokémon, Clodsire appeared in front of Irene and ate up the attack without a flinch—thanks to its ability Water Absorb. "I admire your bravery," Rika breathed, as she skid herself to a stop, the sand kicking up as some sort of Sand Attack toward Crawdaunt, blinding it a little. "-but I can't allow a cute girl like yourself get hurt in front of me~♪"

*Oh if only she actually saw Irene. That aura alone would've made Rika fall in love with how epic she* Emitted.

"Bring them to safety, will you?" She winked, even though she didn't look back at the singer. "I'll calm Crawdaunt down." Clodsire brought up a "Protect" As the wild Pokémon started banging with both claws. Azurill have been let down on the sand, and it hopped its way toward the hurt Azumarill, two Marill, and Irene. Rika has no intention to hurt Crawdaunt even if it threw the first attack. Maybe it *Was* Territorial. So, she has other plans. "*Hmm...*" When Rika finally felt the air behind her, her smirk widen and she wanted even more to show herself off. There's that tingling on the back of the neck, that traveled down her spine. It was as if the ground-type specialist herself was provoked. "*There's impressive strength in you, kiddo,*" She thought. Just then, Clodsire's Protect breaks.
Carol
The elite four member was correct to assume quite a number of things: Firstly, the fact that the brunette had quite a bit of money on her, especially given how much her records have sold with Rika being none the wiser. Second, the truth in which Irene had thick skin, such direct quips and retorts serve to do nothing but motivate the former Mt. Battlemaster to win the little contest they had set up. After all, food is infinitely more delicious when it's not out of your pocket, no? Alas, there was no time to quip back, not when victory is in her inevitable sight.

...

Back to the present.

With the musician immediately stepping back just milliseconds before the Crawdaunt had launched its signature move, an instantaneous, brown flash appeared before her eyes in the form of the rounded, amphibious Pokémon that belonged to the elite four. With her vision obscured, her hazel orbs could no longer come in contact with the Crawdaunt's own fierce gaze as Clodsire absorbed the blow with relative ease. Ah, so that was the ability of the strange Pokémon that used its body to protect her. It was convenient to say the least, and being right on the money put her in a much better mood than she was just prior to Rika's dynamic entry. The once terrifying aura that the musician had bore immediately dissipated upon witnessing the ground type specialist's ponytail flailing upon her arrival, the sand attack causing Crawdaunt to be in a frenzied state. With her lips now forming a subtle half-smirk, Irene's eyes remained locked onto Rika's back before moving onto the swamp knight's broader shoulders. Perhaps being, or acting like a damsel in distress might not be so bad after all. A little roleplay is due, that's for sure. Her heart would be fluttering right now at just how cool Rika would've looked at the moment, especially with the cute comment, if it weren't for the fact that she could've handled the situation all by her lonesome. Nevertheless, the help was appreciated and being the one protected was quite refreshing.

—

"You never told me you were a knight in shining armor as well.~ ♡ You really are multi-faceted, huh?" It was a rhetorical question, Irene made it clear that she was still willing to tease the elite four member, indicating that she's safe now thanks to her efforts.

Though Rika didn't look back, Irene would clasp both her hands behind her back once more, bouncing in her steps as she turned to face the pack of Marills, the Azurill that was by her leg in an absolute panicked state and the injured, brave Azumarill that tried its hardest to protect them, her half-smirk turned into a sincere smile to calm the involved parties that she was meant to guide. After all, Irene was planning on fully heeding her hero's clear instructions. It was high time to seize control of the situation and round up the blue mice in a supporting role despite the chaos behind her!
—

"Alright little ones!" She called out to the water-types around her, placing both her hands on her chest, taking a deep breath. "What do you say we all give them some space and watch how this all unfolds?" They didn't need much persuasion, given how enamored they were with either her star necklace or with the fact that the musician had stepped in to defend them at that moment. They were simply indebted to her, besides they couldn't detect any malice behind her words. Rubbing her hands together, her eyes would fall onto the baby water type as it began shaking, obviously in a panicky state. However, Irene would bend down ever so slightly, giving it a gentle pat before swinging her arms around and walking along just a few feet away with the pack closely following behind the musician near the next crag which was just a little ways off. Just safe enough for Irene to protect the pack should the need arise, and close enough to get a first class seat to the action. Sitting down, the musician would cross her legs with the injured Azumarill now sitting on her lap and the baby water-type close to her side, her gaze fixated on the barrier Clodsire had put up that was absolutely shattered by the Crawdaunt's powerful attack.

—

In turn, a rather menacing looking Gengar would emerge with half its body submerged in its trainers shadow, throwing all the water types in momentary fear before the musician rested her chin atop the evolved water-type's head. "Simmer down now Spooks, we're just getting to the good part." With those words alone, the ghost type would dive back into the musician's shadow, calming the water-types around her. "Did I scare ya'll~? Sorry sorry! I'll be _really_ quiet." Placing a finger on her lips, Irene would shush herself as she continued observing, trying to piece together just how exactly this will end. Needless to say, there are countless outcomes, which one would Rika go for she wondered? 

"Show me what you got, kiddo . . ." The musician muttered as the feeling of excitement Irene felt took over her entire mind. It was truly indescribable the fun she was having! What sort of bag of tricks will the ground-type specialist show off? Her curiosity was piqued yet again.
Lorna
Once Irene and the rest of them were at a safe distance, it was on time too, as the Protect from Clodsire broke down. Luckily, the barrage of Clawdaunt's claws wasn't a specific move per se, so Clodsire was barely scratched besides closing its eyes in reaction. This was a water-type opponent for them, with Rika's team mostly consisting of ground-types. But that doesn't discourage her. It's common to get figured out, despite the elite four battles happening in a building that is more or less hidden from the outside eye. Her love of Clodsire itself is probably the dead get away. So, with challengers coming in with type advantages, Rika had to focus on finessing.

While the wild Pokémon is busy with Clodsire, Donphan was sent out, assisting with a "Stone Edge." Pillars of rock shoot up from the sand in seemingly out of nowhere when the elephant Pokémon stomped down, not hitting Crawdaunt but surrounding it in what appeared like an organic cage. The Crawdaunt was surprised at first, before regaining back it's aggressive state, already hammering down on the the stone ledges with it flurry of Crab Hammer. Watching for a second, Rika observed the nature of the wild Pokémon. If it's the territory that it's protecting, it's being far too desperate—ruthless even. "Look, that's it. We got what we came for, so we *Could* Just back up," Rika declared, her gaze boring down into Crawdaunt, it stopping for a second to glare back. Then, it gave some sort of battle cry before holding up its giant claws, swinging them to and fro as if dancing. Seeing how the opponent Pokémon was holding poise, she assumed it was going for a Sword Dance. That theory is proven more when a Crab Hammer broke through its stone prison in one smack afterwards. Scuttling forward, Crawdaunt came to strike down on its most recent enemy: Donphan.

But as it raised it claw above Rika's Pokémon, another one of her's was thrown out—high in the air actually. "Whiscash, a Blizzard, please?" Out of water, the wa

Ter/ground-type was able to spit some icicles out in Crawdaunt's direction, freezing its pincers and making the Pokémon imbalanced from it. Wide eyes came from it a moment before Crawdaunt fell on its back and Whiscash was withdrawn in his Pokéball before he could hit the ground. Just as, in a quick transition, a pit formed beneath the wild Pokémon, thanks to Clodsire's use of Earthquake. Still confused and clambering about it's situation, Crawdaunt tried to get up before it suddenly got blindsided by a tornado of sand thanks to Dugtrio's Sandstorm, Rika's fourth Pokémon who have been sent out.

They're at the finishing touch—Rika's plan from the start. Her fifth and final Pokémon is summoned out, a Camerupt, who used Yawn toward the flailing Crawdaunt. A pink little bubble lulled toward the opposing Pokémon who's stuck struggling in one place. And just as soon as that bubble touched Crawdaunt and it popped, the big orange Pokémon flinched still, before yawning itself. It's movements were slower and lazier, eventually leading it to pass out, face in the sand. The Sandstorm around it was still raging, burying it in the hole that was created for it. Rika knew this isn't bad for the Pokémon since it either slept in sand to avoid heat and to avoid other predators anyway. So if anything, this was a safe haven for the Pokémon to *Chill* Out.

Turning back toward where Irene and the Azurill family line are, with her ponytail trailing after her like a tail, she bowed like a gentleman, gloved hand at her chest and the other one hiding behind her back. Her Pokémon who's out with her (Clodsire, Donphan, Dugtrio, and Camerupt) also turned around to face whom they fought for, staring ahead with confident smiles and self pats to themselves.

Rika gave her signature expression of winking with a smug smile, the sunlight and breeze hitting her *Just* Right to give a really dramatic end to her "Show." The Azurill family couldn't help but cheer, some smacking their paws together to applaud as Rika approached the group. Suavely, she asked, "Anyone else hurt besides our Master here?" She kneel down to the Azumarill to comfortably stroke just below its left ear, giving Irene a knowing glance. "Hope your knight did justice right for you~"
Carol
The former Mt. Battlemaster kept watch over everything that had just transpired in the midst of their battle. Occasionally, she'd look over by the pack of Marills that surrounded her before turning her attention to the blue pokemon that she rested her chin on. With a forceful exhale through her now pursed lips, she was uncertain of the outcome and the shivering blue mouse didn't make things any better, it distracted her from the main show after all. Nevertheless, Irene would hold the quaking Azumarill closer. The constant back and forth with its zig-zagging tail was either an indication of sheer frustration or pent up anger, her delicate fingers would play around with its ears, perking it up to cause it to turn around at her, before offering the water-type a comforting smile, which in turn caused it to calm down.

"Everything's going to be A-OK, I guarantee it. You've done a noble thing keeping your loved ones safe, so let my-" Shaking her head, the musician would shift her gaze up for a moment. "Our knight will handle it." Correcting herself, Irene found herself looking at the water-type's circular eyes directly, she moved her index finger towards its nose, giving it a light boop. "Just sit tight. ♡'' Her voice was soft, almost to the point of being affectionate yet oddly imposing and authoritative. However, those words inspired confidence deep within the injured Azumarill, causing it to obey Irene's words as it stayed put, once again fixating on the battle for their home, trusting in both the humans that came to save them. Once again turning her attention to the battle at hand. Slowly adjusted both her armbands to get some air in, SAT-LUN didn't miss too much of the action. Her eyes lit up in glee and anticipation as the alluring Whiscash was high up in the air.

-

Ah, how long has it been since she'd last seen one? How nostalgic, the musician thought to herself while her eyes followed the icicles that emerged from the blizzard, right down to the moment it froze the aggressive Crawdaunt's pincers. Letting out a low whistle, Irene was impressed with the strategem Rika was going for, but her curiosity did get to the better of the musician, just what was her plan exactly? If anything, the ground type specialist seemed a tad gentle in her approach to subduing the crustacean. It wouldn't take long for the answer to reveal itself as the pit formed underneath the territorial water/dark type. However, Irene didn't realize that they were nearing the end.

As soon as the Camerupt emerged and let out a yawn, everything made perfect sense. Her mouth parted, and her pearly teeth were exposed as her eyes sparkled upon Rika's final act. Her eyes fixated on the suave, ponytailed elite four as they turned to face the musician and the pack, and upon bowing, Irene would lower her head back to mimic the gesture. The way Rika gracefully & tactfully handled this situation put Irene's heart at ease.

-

A nice change of pace from the usual bouts the brunette finds herself in.

Of course, she did give the elite four member's team a thumbs up when they turned around as well, taking a mental note that they all had one thing in common. They were ground types. Could they have been a gym leader of some sort? No, if Irene knew anything about battling, and she knew how to gauge one's strength, Rika was stronger than the average type specialist, but something was lacking, the intent of utterly decimating an opponent. Although Irene could tell that the way the Paldean conducts herself in battle is completely different from her own way, she admired the style nonetheless and decided to applaud them alongside the water-types while the ground type specialist's signature expression caused her mind to drift elsewhere.

-

Ah, she looked really cool, didn't she?

Not realizing just how close Rika had gotten up to that point, Irene snapped back into reality upon their question and was greeted with her handsome face giving the brunette a knowing glance, almost to the point where her heart skipped a beat. Alas, SAT-LUN would loosen her hold onto the injured Azumarill and leaned closer to Rika, giving their cheek a light peck, her soft lips coming in contact with the Paldean's right cheek. For the musician, this was just a gesture of gratitude, it didn't hold much weight or meaning. Besides, she's already kissed plenty of people on the cheek before, so this was nothing to write home about. Moving her face back, Irene greeted her knight with a wide smile.

"You've done me proud, oh mighty Swamp Knight!" The brunette cackled before fully letting go of the Azumarill and immediately got up on her feet. "Heave ho!"

Fixing the creases of her shirt, the musician would then extend her hand out to Rika, before using her other hand to take out her own phone, shaking it to catch the green-haired trainer's attention. "Gimme your phone." Irene requested, her tone of voice was slightly more serious than what Rika had gotten used to up to that point. "A knight like yourself deserves a banquet in their name, I concede.~ Dinner's on me." The musician would declare her defeat, even though it would be a tie at most, and she knew that. "I'll meet you at the  at 5 PM if you're free, after you take care of our 'master.' of course~, We'll get to know each other there properly and get some grub before going on our merry way to stargaze, think of it like a date of sorts!" Bursting into laughter, Irene slid her phone back into her pocket before raising a single digit, offering the Paldean a playful wink.

"You can ask me one question now though.~ What's on your mind?"
Lorna
She didn't know how much she wanted that praise from Irene. There was this air about the girl that made Rika, the Paldean Elite Four, wanting to do her best. And Rika isn't one to get questionable over a *Kiss on the cheek* Especially since it's a norm in Paldea. But seeing as it's something that only happens to people who are **Close** In family and friends, also in *Greeting*, it was definitely out of place. She doesn't show any reaction, though, thinking *"Psh, this kiddo is trying to fluster me."* Still... Maybe a *Teensy-eensy* Bit. To move on, Rika brushed her bangs to the side while flipping the ponytail that trail after her, she offered a humble, soft laugh. "I'm glad I did." Just like a quick one-two, she was *Told* To show her phone and without hesitation, her Rotomphone flew from her pocket in front of Irene. It's a convenient tech that Paldea has. Liking her directness, Rika decides to point it out, "First time I've been given an order." Maybe it was, maybe it was not, but at that moment, it was the most memorable for her. The confidence oozing from this girl was something Rika always admired in anyone. Usually, it was her leading the way, other females swooning—not saying, Rika is swooning for Irene but... It was a nice change of pace to have someone sure of their actions.

Though she loved the chivalry, Rika insists on not taking the win. "That wasn't the deal," She said, with a hand up to halt Irene from saying more. "You found them, you were there first when Crawdaunt was attacking. I'm a man of my code, I'll treat you dinner." It'll be pretty selfish if Rika was to accept the offer, seeing as the only thing she did was do what was expected of any trainer. Irene had the skills to scale quickly and boldly come to the rescue of another. She's the real MVP here. Rika just wanted to show off. There was a itch in the corner of her brain that made her want to prove she's considered an elite. Even if she's the first rung on the ladder.

A date, huh? It wa

S to be expected, she's usually asked out for lunch. But the Paldean already had the hunch that wasn't Irene's goal in the beginning. Besides, this girl has captured her interest herself. She wouldn't mind they relax while telling stories of their life together. It should be a normal thing for an island supposedly full with the gifted. " 5pm it is then." Pulling out a flask from her dress pants pocket, Rika twists the cap off and offer Azumarill the drink. No, it's not alcohol! It's Sitrus Berry juice. Not only was it for her Pokémon, it was refreshing for herself too, being the person that always walks around. It had all the right stuff to make the Pokémon feel better. While the pack of blue orbs were happily "Hurrah-ing" And the sort, they were also a bit sad since it seem their two new human pals were about to leave to their own affairs. Now, Rika may have declined her treat for dinner, but she's going to accept the "One more question." Standing back up, she puts the cap of the flask back on and then back in her pocket, stalling to draw out effects. "What's on my mind, hmm~ Well." She takes a moment to let that message get across. The breeze from the ocean blows over them, sifting the hair on their head. Her Pokémon were lazing about, still basking in the acknowledgment that Irene gave them earlier and making conversation with Azumarill and gang. Finally, Rika clears her throat, and then asks,

"Who are you?"

Very simple three words, but very impactful too. In this world, this island, the aura Rika felt slithering up her back just as she cut between Irene and the Crawdaunt, there was something lurking, ominous even. Does she want to know? It was she being too suspicious? ... A moment more, and an even stronger breeze blows, making Rika giggle as she fixed her bangs again, holding it down, so that it doesn't itch her forehead any longer. Her crimson eyes rolls over the girl in front of her, before they close in glee. "Or, will you tell me tonight?"
Carol
_Taking in the rather bizarre fight of a Rotom phone, Irene eyes widened as she offered the floating cellular a kind-hearted smile, staring directly into what she assumed were its azure eyes. Suffice to say, it was definitely her first time seeing one, though she'd definitely heard of those. With her fingers coiling around the 'mysterious' device, the brunette began navigating her way through the phones, eventually finding her destination, thankfully she wasn't technologically inept! All the while, she kept the conversation trucking along._

"It won't be the last time I give an order either, better get used to it kiddo." _Sticking her tongue out playfully, it was time to address the second topic at hand. Whilst she inputted her number, she would tap her chin momentarily, thinking of what name to put on the Paldean's phone before deciding on one that she found... Funny to say the least._

✩ Not Kiddo! SAT-LUN ✩

_Snickering to herself, the former Mt. Battlemaster was concocting a mischievous idea of the comical variety, her finger moving all the way up to her lips and shushing the Rotom phone before deciding to message herself using the elite four member's device, she was so sure she wouldn't mind, might find it amusing if she ever found it. At least, that was her initial impression of the green haired trainer._

From Rika → XX:XX AM
Hey! Not a Kiddo! I think we should just split the bill!

_Trying to not make her elaborate scheme too obvious, the brunette was still talking, even as Rika insisted to not take her offer. Responding only with a subtle "We'll see about that." Muttered underneath her breath before offering the Rotom Phone a playful wink, urging it to keep what's about to happen a secret about their compromise for the time being. As the Paldean confirmed the time and place, taking out a rather curious flask as the elite made their way towards the pack. The sight of the blue pack celebrating was most certainly heartwarming, and her hazel orbs took it in its entirety. Perhaps the meeting of the pair was fated, Irene had already taken somewhat of a liking to them, due to just how much of an impression they left on the musician._

From ✩ Not Kiddo! SAT-LUN ✩ → XX: XX AM
Glad you can come to your senses kiddo! Sure! We'll go 50-50!! 😛

_Hitting send from her own smartphone, Irene waved at the Rotom Phone, signaling it to return to its owner while she carefully observed the Paldean stand back up to their full height. Though the suspense was eating away at her from the inside, the musician was ready for anything, bracing herself for impact. With the gentle breeze playing along her head, the musician's attention diverted towards the ocean, her hands comfortably clasped behind her back as she stood on the shore until Rika finally cleared their throat, ushering in what would be a blanket statement in the form of a question. Who was she? Raking her fingers through her hair after lifting the cap she was now synonymous with, the musician pondered on how to exactly to approach this situation before putting it back on whilst enjoying the gentle breeze courtesy of this particular morning's outstanding weather whilst whistling parts of a particular tune, one that would be apparent much later._

_Shifting the position of her hands again, her index finger would be held against her own lips once again, this time in pure contemplation before reverting back to their previous position. It didn't take long for her to come up with an answer that she deemed satisfactory, after all she had some idea of what that question had insinuated. Did Rika sense something? Far be it from Irene to miss such a crucial detail, it was impressive that they were able to notice that something was amiss. Whether or not she was referring to the Gengar hiding in her shadow, or was it the overwhelming confidence and vicious instinct that might have popped for a moment, all roads led to the same conclusion however. Any further inquiries by the musician wouldn't do any of them any good, she planned on being honest, but carrying on this conversation while being covered in her own sweat wasn't the play. It was much better to save all the juicy parts for when they finally have dinner, that was her thought process, plain and simple._

-
_Bringing both her index fingers outward for Rika to bear witness, Irene would move those digits as though they were drumsticks, her lips curling to a half-smile before finally holding onto her star shaped necklace._

"Just a humble musician passing by, I'll save the rest for tonight brave sir knight." _Covering her mouth, Irene tried her hardest to not let out so much as a peep, the roleplay they seemed to have found themselves in was just too amusing, and hilarious to boot._ "But I'll satiate your curiosity, that's a promise. So long as you satiate mine. I feel like you've got quite a few stories to tell as well, that's just my read though!" 

_Turning around, the musician would fully turn her back onto Rika, making her way towards the direction they both initially came from and towards her room to get ready for the night. As she walked however, three purple digits would pop out from the musician's shadow, waving the elite goodbye. Whether or not it was Spooks being somewhat of a prankster to Rika, Irene didn't seem to care all too much, perhaps it was more fun that way to keep the elite on their toes for the time being._
Lorna
Having the gall to call it an order made Rika snicker but she doesn't quip back. Instead, she watches Irene mess around with her Rotomphone, an amused smile on her face. She was like a little kid, playing her little jokes while getting invested in the technology. With how she was fiddling around it, was it something new to her? That moment's stare was enough for Rika to assume, and now thinking about it, she never caught where Irene was from. Not all regions used Rotomphones. It was actually funny when it returned to her, Rika peeking at what took so long and seeing the message under her name. It got the elite four's face lighting up with a small chuckle, in which she hid behind her gloved hand. Then, seeing the name for her contacts, "SAT-LUN" Sounded distinctively familiar. It reminded her of the stars.

Her crimson eyes stayed focus on the letters until they became incomprehensible. The humming of the brunette in front of her swept her almost in a daze. It was not until she noticed a shift in Irene did Rika looked up, the other female's expression caught in by the sunlight that filtered nicely. She really exudes a certain enigma, scheming. Rika doesn't know how to place it. It was as if she's walking on landmines, or dancing around them. It has been a while, or heck, maybe it's the first time someone spoke to her in such a confident manner without that infatuation. The only thing in the spectrum is her flirting. The elite four found her expression quite serious before lifting a corner of her lips. It's not like Irene is the only one who's careful with what to reveal.

"*Just a humble musician passing by.*" She had said. If that was the case, was the brunette just this Amelia Sigford's favorite indie artist, called in for a party? No, there's more to it. Irene was just being a mischievous thing, Rika can tell. Her smile matches with that of the other girl. Two can play that game. As a Pokémon trainer, anyone is competitive but Rika goes with the flow and rig

Ht now, the flow of this "Humble" Magician in front of her is anything but. "Sounds a plan, k-" Rika held back from calling her kiddo, heeding the words on her contact. She will for now, until it's time for another tease. A trade-off at dinner wouldn't be so bad. Besides, the talk of satiability makes it more anticipating. Is her role really that important that she has to keep making Rika curious?

"If this is just a game for you-" She starts softly, staring after Irene's back before the wave of something in her shadow came and went. Huffing from out her nose, the pushed air rose her bangs a bit before they slacked back down. "-then I'm caught in it."