#pixitive

--- WHY was he being followed? Tarquin had never participated in a contest in his life. Had never even thought about appearing under those bright lights and criticizing eyes of others: it made him antsy enough when one person looked at him, let alone the hundreds that regularly showed up in Hearthome to spectate. The one time he thought he may as well go to Sinnoh for some info on the pokemon that had been sealed in a keystone --- Spiritomb, had it been? --- he had been sought out by an avid contest fan who thought he might do well in a contest setting.

Tarquin had told him in no uncertain terms to leave, but not nearly as politely. But now from the sound of the footsteps behind him, the young man was back, and he sought to nip it in the bud before the badgering could start again.

“ whoa... your whimsicott has a beautiful coat! “ the cotton looks so soft and clean. he oh so desparately wants to pet them. “ is that natural, or do you do some specific stuff to get it that way? “

Boutique Couture, considered the most stylish clothing store in all of Kalos, and perhaps parts of the world. And within this stylish store there was a stylish boy. That stylish boy was searching for a new outfit, something to match with Thanatos, his Absol. But there appeared to be something wrong. The boy Minato was finding it difficult searching for something fancy and fit for a contest. He had gathered a few pieces, but needed an outside opinion.

The perfect option was actually not far from him. A small girl, nearly the same color and size of a standard stick of gum, appeared to be glancing through the clothing at her own pace. Minato decided to move towards her, and lightly tap her on the shoulder.