Chapter 5 - ''Arriving to Orange Town'' (Patreon)

A few days had passed since Vivi’s defeat, but far from making her feel down, She didn’t slow down a bit.

Day by day and battle after battle, she trained with Marco and Muscles, pushing harder every time, beating every trainer or wild pokemon she found along the way.

She underestimated Ren but, next time, she would win.

And so, after a few days, at last, she reached Orange Town.

The place looked old. Wooden buildings, dusty streets, western-style facades. Like a town stuck in another era.

And the heat?

Brutal.

—Ugh… I’m melting…

Vivi rushed into the Pokémon Center—the only modern building around.

Cool air hit her instantly.

—Ahh… much better…

She took a step forward—

And stopped.

Right at the entrance.

—YOU!!

Vivi pointed.

Hsu Ren stood there.

She walked up to him—fast.

Too close.

—Don’t think I forgot what you did!

Ren froze.

Then slowly turned his head away.

Vivi’s eye twitched.

—Seriously?! What, you think you’re some kind of "chosen one" from a martial arts movie or something?!

Ren stiffened.

—You’re doing it again!!

—Doing what?!

—Standing too close!!

Vivi clicked her tongue and stepped back.

—Tch! Whatever. I’m not here for you anyway.

Then she noticed.

Bruises. Small cuts. Bandages.

—… Hey. You okay?—... It’s nothing.—That doesn’t look like nothing.—... Gym battle.—A Gym did that to you?—Carlos. The leader here.

Vivi frowned.

—Since when do trainers get hurt in Gym battles?

Ren, now more relaxed, gave a small smile.

—This is Cresva... Vivi, wasn't it?... If you rush in like I see you do… it’ll eat you alive.

Vivi narrowed her eyes.

—…What?

But Ren had already started moving, walking around her without turning.

—Hey! Where are you going?!

He raised something in his hand.

—I just got my Ember Badge. I have nothing more to do in this town.

Vivi blinked.

—You won?!— Pff... Barely. And if you challenge the leader without a proper preparation, that victory I had against you will be nothing compared to how bad he and his team will humilliate you.

Vivi stepped closer to look the badge—

Closer...

Way too close...

... Again.

—Let me see— She asks.—Too close! — he yells.

Ren panicked and ran away leaving the girl behind.

—HEY!! GET BACK HERE!!

Too late.

Vivi stood there, fists clenched.

—What a weird dude.

A small grin appeared.

—But you just wait, "Choosen One", I'll easily get that badge and you will start getting me seriously.