#flintignited

► Hmm, nothing new and definitely a boring one. 

What? Haven’t you heard? He has a machine implanted that tells him what to do during pokemon battles. That’s why he’s so good! And, it gets better. Volkner was the one who made it. Volkner. Made. A Flint. Robot.

► Now that! 

Was beyond idiotic. 

But he would be lying if he said he didn’t have his own theories. Thorton always did wonder how Volkner and Flint managed such dynamic chemistry- their personalities were opposites, their upbringings differed, even their primary colors were on other sides of the spectrum. Also, from what he had seen, the two were always bickering like children. 

What was the purpose of their relationship? Why did someone as scholarly as Volkner even bothered with the hot-headed Fire Elite? Conferences with all gym leaders, elites and battle frontiers were tiring already, but watching the two had Thorton crunching numbers that didn’t add up and Palmer had the gall to use the “you’ll understand when you’re older” line. 

Well, he didn’t! And he was going to find out today- even swim in the cursed ocean if he had to!

Now he was here. At the top of the lighthouse, too much sunscreen plastered on every visible skin and one calculated plan. The plan was impeccable and a ninety-nine point five percent at success! It was his genius plan after all, nothing below perfection. Under the guise of a recent project and tea, he was to infiltrate Volkner’s living space at the same time Flint was predicted to visit. From there he would have access to all variables. 

► “What an exquisite experiment, indeed! Ack-! Hush 007, you are ruining my moment!” He battled away the zipping Rotom, who snickered at its trainer’s rare excitement. 

► “Come now! Let’s fix you up to look presentable. Commoners say they usually spot Volkner at the top of this lighthouse around the afternoon. Probably doing his routine check-up, this old building does look like it needs it-”

His speech broken off as the elevator slid open; Thorton quickly sorted out his tie and turned to fully face the door, expecting no other than the Shocking Star- and sagged in disbelief when the Flint That Sparks The Fire walked out instead.

Thorton almost groaned in annoyance and wanted to silence 007, static sparking in the air in its mirth. What was it that Dahlia repeated?

Improvise! Adapt! Overcome!

► Yes, when it comes to him I have to always expect the unexpected. What a spontaneous personality indeed. 

Thorton cleared his throat, hands fidgeting as nerves took over.

► “Elite Four Flint?” He approached and inclined his head in acknowledgement. As much as Flint was known to be the most friendly person you’ve ever meet, Thorton could never be sure. So his introduction came out stiff but formal.