Seth stared blankly ahead as the little lion cub slipped out from the bushes. Pawniard studied the new arrival carefully and then turned to his trainer, an expectant look on his face. Seth reached into his pocket and pulled out his dex and aimed it towards the curious Pokémon before him.

"Litleo, the Lion Cub Pokémon. The stronger the opponent it faces, the more heat surges from its mane and the rest of its body. They set off on their own from their pride and live by themselves to become stronger. These Pokémon are quick to fight," said the dex as she gathered the information on Litleo.

"Looks like we'll be getting our first catch a little earlier than expected," Seth stated as he pocketed his dex and stood up, keeping an eye on the cub as she padded towards the duo.

Seth glanced down at the food he still had out of the bag and then back to Litleo who was sniffing the air. Seth shifted his gaze over to Pawniard who remained motionless for the time being. A loud growling sound reached Seth's ears. Seth blinked and watched as Litleo looked down at her rumbling tummy.

Now that I think of it, a battle can wait, Seth thought, watching Litleo's eyes shift towards his food. It wouldn't be fair if I fought her with an empty stomach. "Pawniard, over here for now. She's hungry, let's get her something to eat," Seth commanded, beckoning Pawniard towards him.

The little chess piece obeyed and made his way towards Seth, motioning for Litleo to follow. Curious, the little cub did as she was asked and followed the blade bodied Pokémon towards his master. She took a seat and watched while Seth reached into his bag and pulled out a bag of Pokémon food. The tantalizing scents tickled her nostrils and enticed her into venturing closer. Seth reached in and took a handful and held it out to her. With no hesitation, Litleo devoured the treats in his hand as if she hadn't eaten in days.

"Someone was hungry," Seth laughed, observing Litleo lick her lips in satisfaction. "There's more where that came from if you're still hungry," Seth added, getting an affirmative nod from the cub who opened her mouth as if to ask for more.

"I guess you still are," Seth said with a soft smile, reaching into the bag to grab a another handful.

Litleo dove into the treats and gobbled them down quickly before rolling onto her back, a content look on her face as she licked her lips again.

"All full?" Seth queried, getting a nod from the cub. "Good, I'm glad. You really looked hungry," Seth added, reaching out to gently stroke the tuft of red fur on her head.

Litleo purred into his touch and nudged her head into his hand a bit more. As Seth pet her, she caught sight of the spheres on his belt. Following her eyes, Seth realized she'd spotted his capture devices. Litleo tilted her head, a question lurking in her eyes.

"So Litleo, how do you feel about going on a journey?" Seth began, gaining the little cub's interest almost instantly. "I know how Litleo love a good challenge, and this journey I am taking is definitely a good one for you. You'll get to battle strong Pokémon and trainers as well. Sound like fun?"

Litleo purred loudly as Seth stroked her ears. With a nod she confirmed her interest and rolled onto all fours to stand. Seth reached down to his belt for a Poké Ball and set it on the ground after expanding it. Litleo inspected it for a moment and then reached out her paw to touch it. As her paw touched the center of the ball, it suddenly sprang open, causing her eyes to widen in surprise. A bright white light engulfed her and absorbed her into the ball. After a few twitches, the ball went still, signaling that Litleo had been caught.

Seth leaned down to pick up the sphere. With a smile, he glanced over at Pawniard before releasing the little cub. Litleo bursted from her new home and hopped onto Seth's shoulder. She purred and nuzzled her face against his, getting a few scratches behind the ears in return.

"That was a bit easier than expected. Then again, you were rather hungry weren't you?" Seth said with a faint smile, getting a nod from Litleo.

"Back off asshat!" A feminine voice scowled in the distance.

Litleo's ears twitched upon hearing the noise. Seth turned his head as well, quirking a brow as he heard bickering.

"I said leave us alone!"

"That doesn't sound good," Seth mused aloud, turning in the direction of the voices. "I wonder what's going on," Seth stated, getting a nod from his companions.

Melody sighed as she leaned back in her seat. Tired didn't even begin to describe how she felt. She had been helping her mother with the morning chores right before school. On top of that, it was game night and Jamie was going to be over. A slight blush tinted her cheeks at the thought of it just being the three of them. With Seth around, it was a lot easier to deal with. A tap on the shoulder got Melody's attention, causing her to turn around to see her friend handing her a note.

Melody took the note from Kate and glanced at it.

So mom says I'm okay to come over for game night. What time should I be there?

A wave of relief washed over Melody as she read those words. A bright smile crossed her features as she wrote back to her friend and handed it back.

Seven thirty is when we usually do it. Oh! Are you going to bring Floette?

Kate giggled at the message and tapped Melody once more and gave her a nod. Melody tapped her feet excitedly and turned her attention back to the teacher who was still reading silently. It was almost time for the first class of the day to let out. She was eager to be done with the day.

I wonder how Seth is doing, Melody thought, leaning forward to return to her studies.

"How rude. Don't you know it's impolite to insult someone? Besides, the poor boy lost and as per the rules of battle, the wager that was set is to be handed over. And as the winner, I can request any amount, and one thousand is but a drop in the bucket," said a blue suited brunette.

"One thousand is a bit high for someone who just started out. Hell, that's as much as a Trainer's License," A young honey blond girl with a pink hat growled.

"Ah, but rules are rules. Now either he hands over the money or there will be trouble," the youth continued, his eyes narrowing in distaste.

"Sheesh, and here I thought the princess was as snobby as they came. I guess I need to get out more," came a voice from behind the group of individuals standing around.

The girl turned her head to spot a young, brown-haired man with penetrating blue irises looking their way. Her eyes trailed along his frame to spot the hilt of a sword strapped to his hip. Nervousness overtook her at the sight of a weapon. Her eyes shifted towards her three friends who also seemed to be a bit wary of his presence.

"The princess? Oh, you must mean my future bride. I wouldn't call her snobby, just rightfully entitled," the youth grinned.

"And another one who puts her on a pedistal. You guys are so smitten by her it's ridiculous," Seth stated, rolling his eyes with a sigh.

"Who isn't? She's wealthy, beautiful and intelligent. What more could a man ask for? A commonor such as yourself wouldn't understand," the young man laughed.

"I was hoping I wouldn't run into anyone else in that stupid competition," Seth muttered, shaking his head. "Anyway, we're getting off topic. What's the deal with you trying to rip these guys off?" Seth demanded.

"Rip them off? Oh no, you're sorely mistaken. You see, we both made a wager. He opted to pay me whatever
Pokédollars he had if I were to win. I told him I would pay him ten times the amount should he win. However, he never told me that all he had was one hundred. If you ask me, he's ripping me off," the brunette retorted.

"Asking for ten times what he doesn't have and then telling him there will be trouble, is called extortion," Seth spat, narrowing his eyes at the bigot.

"So what if it is? To the victor go the spoils as they say," he replied, his eyes shifting to the sword at Seth's hip, a trickle of sweat sliding down the side of his cheek as he spotted it. "But, on second thought. A measly one hundred wouldn't be too bad," he added, realizing the situation he found himself in.

Seth heaved a sigh and glanced over at the young ginger boy with a camera around his neck. He seemed rather down about the situation. Taking a deep breath, Seth reached into his pocket and opened his wallet. He had about five hundred on him from his allowance. Taking out the amount the boy would have paid, he walked over to the suited youth and handed it to him.

"Here. Don't spend it all in one place," Seth muttered, getting a bewildered expression from the brunette.

Pocketing the money, the youth placed his fists on his hips and glanced over at the ginger and the blond.

"I suppose you got off easy. Next time we meet in battle, you might not be so fortunate," he stated with a huff, turning to walk away from the group.

Seth placed his wallet back inside his pocket and turned to look at the group that had gathered. One was a rather heavyset young man with black hair and a black shirt and shorts. Another was a short, slim young woman with dark brown hair done up in twin tails. She had the brightest green eyes he'd ever seen. The other was a tall young woman with honey blond hair and a set of sky blue eyes. Lastly, a ginger youth with a light complexion and a camera about his neck, similar to his sister's.

"I don't think he'll be bothering you guys for a while," Seth stated, watching as their nervous expressions faded into smiles.

"Thanks for the help, though you really didn't need to do that," the blond said with a light smile.

"Eh, people like that bug me. Just listening to him rattle on about wealth was irritating. I had to shut him up somehow," Seth stated, rolling his eyes.

"Well you certainly shut him up alright. I think seeing your sword changed his tune a little," the brunette giggled. "Oh! The name's Shauna, by the way!"

"Nice to meet you. The name's Seth," he replied casually.

The ginger stepped forward and extended his hand for Seth to shake.

"Thanks for the help. That was my last hundred after stocking up on supplies. I'm Trevor," he added with a grin.

Seth took his hand in a firm grip and shook it.

"Not a problem. He was being greedy, so I had to send him off," Seth shrugged.

"Is that a real blade, or just for decoration?" The blond inquired, inspecting the sword that was attached to Seth.

"It's real," Seth replied, unsheathing it partially to show the blade. "It's Aggron steel. It's as sturdy as they come."

"That must have been expensive!" She exclaimed, admiring the craftsmanship. "Forgive me, I'm being rude. I'm Serena, it's a pleasure to meet you Seth."

"Same to you," Seth responded, sheathing his rapier as he turned to the larger boy. "And you are-"

"Tierno! Nice to meet you," Tierno exclaimed.

Seth was taken aback by his enthusiasm. The group was a rather odd one it seemed. Then again, it was like that with every group of friends he supposed. From what he could tell, Serena was the protective one of the bunch. Trevor seemed shy, Tierno was excitable and Shauna was peppy and energetic. But the one thing that they all appeared to have in common, was how close they were with one another. A smile crept onto Seth's features.

"So you mentioned something about a contest. Is it that one that Princess Allie is hosting?" Serena inquired with a raised brow.

"Oh! You mean the one where the winner gets the chance to marry her as well as winning a ton of money?" Shauna inquired, her eyes sparkling at the mention of it.

"That's the one. I heard a lot signed up for it. I didn't know so many guys were into her," Serena added.

"There's a lot more than you think," Seth laughed.

"Well I think it's romantic. I'd kill to have a bunch of guys quarreling over me," Shauna grinned.

"Trust me, you don't want these guys doing that," Seth deadpanned.

"Let me guess, you're a contestant too?" Serena queried.

"Unfortunately," Seth muttered. "But I'm not in it for the marriage part. She can take her pick of the other wealthy competitors," Seth added.

"I don't blame you for not wanting any part of her. I heard she was a real-"

"Snob? Yep. Right on the nose Trevor," Seth smirked.

"She can't be that bad, can she?" Tierno replied.

"You haven't met her in person," Seth quipped. "Let's just say she isn't exactly someone to write home about. Unless you're just like her, she won't exactly give you the time of day."

"I believe it," Serena chuckled. "Anyway, Seth? Where are you headed?"

"Santalune City. I want to get my first badge as soon as possible," Seth replied.

"That's where we're going! Hey, wanna tag along with us?" Shauna asked excitedly.

Seth thought for a moment. Having traveling companions wouldn't hurt. Then again, it might slow his progress in the journey, which was something he didn't want. However, the upside was that he'd have some people to talk to. It would be a while before he reached Santalune, and passing the time by himself sounded boring.

"Sure, why not? We'll just need to find a good camping spot for the five of us," Seth stated.

"No worries there. I know these woods pretty well, and not too far from here is a pretty nice clearing. We can set up camp there," Trevor said with a bright smile.

"Alright, so Charles will be the first I pay visitation to Furfrou. Oh this is so exciting!" Allie giggled, scrolling through her contact list on her holocaster in order to find the number she desired. "Let me see, Charles...Charles...ah! Here it is," Allie stated, tapping his name to call him.

After a few rings, the holocaster projected a hologram of a tall youth with blond locks wearing adventuring attire consisting of a black shirt, cargo shorts and a backpack. Allie's smile broadened.

"Ah, princess, how are you?" Charles inquired curiously, getting a grin from Allie.

"I'm doing well Charles. Thank you for asking," Allie replied.

"You're welcome. To what do I owe the pleasure of this call?" Charles queried.

"Why, I'm calling to set up a time of meeting of course! And you're the first on the list," Allie explained.

"Am I now? This is rather unexpected," Charles chuckled. "But I'm honored to be the first. And as the rules state, I am to pick the place, no?"

"Oui, and I am to pick the time. How does tomorrow evening at seven suit you?" Allie questioned.

Charles thought for a moment and then nodded.

"Seven sounds perfect. I shall make arrangements for us to dine in Lumiose tomorrow night. A woman such as yourself deserves only the best," Charles grinned.

"Oh Charles, stop it, you flatter me too much," Allie giggled.

"My apologies, but I'm afraid it can't be helped," Charles smirked. "So, see you tomorrow night?"

"At seven. I'll meet you in Lumiose near the Pokémon Center near Parterre Way," Allie informed him.

"I look forward to it," Charles replied with a broad smile.

"Au revoir, Charles," Allie said softly.

"Au revoir, princess," Charles replied before the call ended.

Evening fell on Santalune Forest. Seth and the group he'd met had set up camp and were settling down for the night. Litleo and Pawniard were out of their spheres, ready to get some rest. Seth was just putting out his sleeping bag when he heard footsteps behind him.

"Seth?" Came Serena's voice, causing Seth to turn around.

"What's up?" Seth asked, getting a smile in return from Serena.

"Just wanted to thank you again for your help. Trevor's a really good friend of mine and it means a lot to me that you helped him out. So...thanks," Serena added.

"Like I said. It was no problem," Seth replied, kneeling down to pick up Litleo as she crawled out of their tent.

"Awww, it's a Litleo!" Serena exclaimed, reaching out to scratch under Litleo's chin, eliciting a purr from the feline.

"Yeah, I caught her a little while ago. Actually, right before I met you guys," Seth said with a soft laugh. "Pawniard and I didn't even need to battle her," Seth added, glancing over at his other companion who was now at his side.

"That's rather fortunate. Litleo make wonderful friends. They're very loyal too and willing to fight no matter how tough things get," Serena smiled.

"That's what I've read. She's also the biggest attention hog you'll ever meet," Seth smirked, scratching behind Litleo's ears, getting another purr out of her.

"I'll bet," Serena smiled, glancing back at her friends tents with a sigh. "Looks like they're all about ready to go to bed. I'm in Shauna's tent and she likes to get to sleep early. I'd best get in there myself. It was nice talking with you Seth," Serena replied, extending her hand for him to shake.

"Same to you, Serena," Seth stated, shaking her hand and releasing it.

"Well...good night," Serena said as she turned with a wave.

"Good night," Seth replied, watching as she headed back towards Shauna's tent and crawled inside.

Seth yawned and looked down at his two companions.

"Okay you two, let's get some rest. Tomorrow's another big day. Hopefully we'll be in Santalune by then, or at least close," Seth said as he turned to head towards his tent.

Crawling inside, he changed into his pajamas and slid into his sleeping bag. Taking out his holocaster, he sent a good night message to his family and friends before drifting off to sleep.

Our hero has met some new friends! Albeit I don't plan on keeping them around for the entire journey, they will pop up every now and again. Having them traveling together through the whole thing would be rather taxing as far as dialogue is concerned. But fret not, they shall be of some relevance to the plot as they were in the game. Ciao until the next chapter!