- those types, huh?

That said, despite what the blaziken was wearing looked more feminine, it did look pretty nice. A turtleneck crop, some jean shorts..

And yet that braid of his added to it, too. He sounded like he knew what he was talking about, at least.
And not being obnoxious about it.

"Mm, I must say I do appreciate the symmetry...but I'm more interested in the clothes...Its most definitely a bold strike. I must say, it suits you!"

It didn't sound sarcastic.

"I do think personally it could go with a couple of accessories, but what you have now works already."

Ah, one of -

- ring up Derek beside you and I'll get to it."

Old cake replaced and new cake set in with a generous piece cut out and given to Derek. She goes to start making the drink.

But now the bird's attention is on the human.

"Hmmmmmmm..."

Is he...sizing him up?

- Maybe you should see about a Joltik or someone else to nip you when you're about to fall asleep?"

"I guess.."

The blaziken was busy trying not to laugh.

"Ooh, Cheryl honey, you're in today? Wonderful! You always make the best Boba tea. Could I get a caramel one today?"

"Sure. Let me -

"I'll be back in a minute! ...wake up already!"

...ow. that was a kick and a cry.

But a few minutes later and that Typhlosion came out carrying a tray of a freshly baked pound cake...and a mark on his face.

"...I'm fine."
"I didn't do it that hard, did I? You need someone to stay with you. -

- glance looked like as if they were a girl from their clothes, but that was almost immediately made moot as they spoke in a...bit of a camp voice.

"Hello Daris! Are you back there? Or is someone else working today?"

...Nice choice of clothes, though.

"But of course, its already the plan.

The pound cake, huh? You're in luck, the baker's finishing up with a fresh one. I'll go see if he didn't fall asleep during it. He has narcolepsy, poor thing."

As she went to go check, someone else came in from the entrance. A blaziken that from a -

"That place...?

It's haunted, I think, but I don't really think about that place much. I know the rumors of what lies there, but I make sure I never go out after dark. Is someone planning to go tear it down?"

....Maybe she's not all that familiar with those people. Probably for the best.

"I've been with him for years. You wouldn't know it from looking at him, but hes a lot more sensitive than you'd expect. At times I feel like I've got the initiative, haha~

You should visit his gym sometime. He always enjoys new joinees."

She paused when he mentioned the mansion.

- you met my partner at all, have you? A machoke by the name of Axton? Runs his own gym.

...Ah, I'm sorry, you came in and I never let you pick anything. Pick whatever you want, it'll be on the house today."

"Good to hear it. He doesn't show it much, but that affected him more than he lets on. My finance once lost our rings, but Rex found them rather quickly. He loves kids.

But I feel safe knowing he's looking out for people.

....I didnt even say who I was, did I?

My name's Cheryl. I don't suppose -

- that he needed to team up with a 'rival' of his...and a traveler too. A human of all things even..so I'm POSITIVE it's you!"

"He's a good man, so if you're a friend of his, you're welcome here anytime!"

"Derek? Derek, Derek..."

She was someone else from those he met, but the look of recognition came anyway.

"I think I've heard about you! Mr. Tanner's talked about you before. You're a friend of his, right?"

She's a bit peppy, that's for sure.

"He talked before about case that ended well, and -

The main part was the bistro, with chairs and such. Though off to the side and back was where the bakery section could be seen. A brief glimpse of a Typhlosion could be seen before disappearing behind a wall.

Behind the counter for orders was a Lopunny though.

"You're a new face!"

@urbanflxw.bsky.social ((to be sure its here)

Familiar faces were still around, and to see someone they recognize would feel wonderful.

It was just about that time when the bistro/bakery was opening. Pudgy Delights/Sweet Treats.

And one of their regulars would come in any time now, though new customers are welcome.

AHEM

--

The port town was without issue for a change. The afternoon air felt calm as well. Pokémon going along their day through the streets to their destinations, with some going out as well, including into the town from outside.

For some, they would be coming back.

I have completely forgotten i made this lol