Post by sarah on Nov 8, 2009 15:08:31 GMT -5
{You're a little nervous, and it shows. Here you are, getting ready for your first interview for the Sinnoh Times, and you want it to go perfectly. You need to prove that you can handle the job. You're hoping it's something easy that you can do wonders with, but you've been told your interviewee is one of the Gym Leaders. Not only that, but you've heard rumors about this leader; about their skill in battle with Pokemon and otherwise, and their track record as far as wins go. They train fighting Pokemon, as well, and your imagination goes into overdrive as you take a deep breathe and knock shakily on the door. Is it too late to run?!
Too late, indeed, as the door to the small house in Veilstone opens and you are face-to-face with a young girl who is smiling hesitatingly at you. You blink, and ask if the Gym Leader is home.
"Oh? But, I am the Gym Leader." She tilts her head at you, and you stifle a laugh. This little girl? The Gym Leader? But her face is so serious and sincere that you can't help but push the laugh aside and give a small nod before being led into the house and to a small table where you begin your interview.}[/color]
- - M A Y L E N E *[/font][/color][/center]
Parents call me..
{She glances downwards at the word "parents," but when she looks back up at you a moment later her face is the same.}
Oh, well, it's just my dad, but he just calls me Maylene.
{She stops, brows furrowing as she struggles to remember something.}
Um, I think my mom called me Maylene too.
{A slight nod.}
And things like "honey" and "sweety." N-not like the stuff that attracts Pokemon, though, it seems it's just something people call each other- oh, you mean my full name? Well, it's Akiyama Sumomo.
My Friends call me..
Everyone I know just calls me Maylene... Well, some people will call me "Miss" or "Gym Leader Maylene," and some of the people at the dojo will call me teacher... Um, even though I'm not used to teaching anyone anything.
{She gives an inaudible little wince at this, but it is gone soon enough and you feel as if she wishes you hadn't seen it.}
Sometimes people will shorten my name to something like "May" or something, and I am sure there are plenty of other names people can call me (I have heard some rather mean ones sometimes when I defeat a challenger.)
{At this, instead of looking insulted she simply looks slightly amused, as if remembering some of them and the reasons for being called them. You want to ask her to fill you in, but too late, the look has passed and she seems ready for the next question.}
I'm not an it! I'm a..
{As for this question, her face finally shows shock, and you can tell she is wondering if you're serious.}
A-a girl, of course! I was pretty sure I looked like a girl. I hope I look like a girl, anyway. ...Are you saying I don't?!
{More shock, as she glances down at herself, as if wondering if perhaps she had been wrong this whole time.}
I might not wear dresses or skirts as much as other girls or anything, but I really am a girl. I mean, I don't look as girly as Tony's sister always did, b-but... I really am a girl.
{She seems to have calmed down now, but looks wary of the next question.}
I am a...
I'm a Gym Leader, of course. The Gym Leader for Veilstone City, I specialize in fighting Pokemon.
{A mixed look of confusion, stress, and pride grazes her face as she answers, as if realizing that this was indeed the case. She shakes it off and continues, although it appears she wonders if you'll believe what she's telling you.}
Um, I am also rather accomplished at martial arts, since my position requires it. They call me "the barefoot fighting genius." ...I-i don't think I am a genius, though, so it's rather embarrassing. But I am barefoot most of the time...?
{A quick glance down at her feet reveals that she is indeed barefoot. You send a puzzling glance her way; she looks as if she is used to it and merely shrugs.}
I think it's healthier.[/color]
I don't need wrinkle cream! I'm..
W-wrinkle cream? Does it hurt?
{In response to her slight panic, you shake your head and she appears to calm somewhat, although she does place a small hand to her face and wince as if imagining some sort of vile cream being placed on it.}
I'm only thirteen, which is extremely young for a Gym Leader, and even rather young for a trainer. I know. ...I-i'm sorry? But I try to act much older... It doesn't always work, though, but sometimes people tell me I'm"wise" in some senses.
{She looks as though she seriously doubts this, but you can't say you've been talking with her long enough to know for sure and cannot reassure her.}[/color]
Do you think I need a diet?
{For a split-second she makes a face at this}
I'm always on a diet, unfortunately, but um, I suppose I can tell you how I look.
I guess the first thing you would notice about how I look is my hair.
{You immediately agree with this, silently, of course.}
It's a bright pink color and pretty short. It has kind of points on the end, though, and Tony used to tell me they remind him of how Espeon's cheeks go out, but shaped a little differently. Um, my eyes are pink, too, and some people think that's too much pink since it's almost the same shade as my hair, but I like pink so I don't mind.
{She smiles at this, glancing upward as if attempting to get a look at said pink hair.}
I'm short. I really am, as unfortunate as it is. ...As if people didn't take me seriously because of my age, they also don't because of how short and young I look. But I've got muscle! Really! And you can see that. I like to point that out when people say I don't look intimidating. But yes, I do have a lot of muscle... But not like those body-builders with unnatural muscle! They kind of creep me out. I-it really isn't natural. But other than the muscle I am kind of skinny. Sometimes I have to fast for a few days when I go on my mountain mediation trips.
{At the mentioning of her having muscle, you are brought back to your first immediate thought of what the Gym Leader would be like. You can't help but think she is anything but what you first thought, but have to agree that she does indeed have muscle, and, well, could probably take you down, as embarrassing as it is to think it.}
I normally wear the same outfit, because it's comfortable, really. I wash it! I had to learn how to do things like washing my clothes at an early age, you know...
{She glances away for a moment, before coming back to reality}
Oh, I'm sorry... Right, the outfit. It's a sleeveless black and blue shirt (not like a bruise!) and a pair of almost baggy white pants with pink stripes. I also have a pair of really cool gloves that I hardly ever take off. I don't really have a reason for wearing them... I just like them a lot. Then I have a band aid on my nose, of course. I'm also known for never wearing shoes. Even in the cold blizzards of Mount Coronet. It helps me be closer to nature and build up my endurance.
{A sideways glance,}
evenifitisreallycold.
{You ask her if she said something and she tilts her head and looks at you curiously, although she appears to be blushing a little bit. You decide to move on.}
Like I said, my clothes are comfortable and I like wearing them. Obviously like anyone else I change my clothes a lot. When I was younger I used to like playing dress-up with my mom's old, way-too-big dresses, but... I can't anymore.
{Her expression becomes almost wistful, and you hurry onto the next question.}
My emotional disposition?
I-I'm not sure I know what that means.
{She looks as if she would rather not admit that, and she looks ashamed as she blushes a little. It is clear that she would rather not admit that she doesn't know. Instead of telling her straight out, you attempt to give her a hint. She seems to understand.}
My personality? Oh, well, I can try and tell you that, but I'm not sure if I'm the best judge of my own character.
{You can't help but agree with that: No one is the best judge of their own character. Who wrote these questions anyway?! Oh, right. You.}
Well... I think I'm a nice person. I try to be nice, anyway. Compassion was one of the reasons I was chosen to be the next Gym Leader, so I guess I don't just think that? I'm also a pretty determined and focused. When I want to do something, I get it done, or at least try as hard as I can to get it done. I try my hardest at everything, because if you don't try your hardest why would you bother doing it? Um, that's not to say I don't get distracted sometimes, but even if I do I always go back to what I was doing before and finish it. "Always finish what you start!" That's what the old Gym Leader used to tell me.
{She seems to be jumping back and forth, unsure of what to say but still spilling out anything that comes to mind about her own personality.}
I want to be strong. I-I mentioned that already, but... That's where most of my time goes, to training to become strong. I don't think I'm strong enough yet, but I don't really understand how to become strong or anything. I don't even know how I became Gym Leader. I guess that's another thing. Sometimes I get rather self-conscious... I worry that I am not strong enough and not good enough to really be able to be a Gym Leader, or even belong at the Gym. I'm down on myself sometimes. I... I need to be better. I have to be better, for me, for my Daddy, for the Gym, for the town... It's a lot of responsibility. Sometimes I just want to throw it all away, run away and stop all of this... And eat a lot of pizza and ice cream. But I really can't, and I know I can't. Sometimes it might seem easier to just run away, but I never could do that. The easiest thing isn't always the best thing. Most of the time, it isn't.
I spout random words of wisdom, sometimes. I was taught that wisdom and courage arr stronger than power, so I try to show that. I try to be brave, and it works. Wisdom is harder than courage for me... But I try. It's not just saying wise things, it's actually living them out yourself. You can't be a hypocrite. I dislike hypocrites... Although I suppose I have been one at least once in my life.
{It is clear that she seems to be regretting telling you all of these- You ARE a complete stranger, after all, and who knows who will read this? But she still seems to feel compelled to go on, and you can't help but wonder if she feels better letting it all out for once.}
I'm on a strict training regime. I can't eat a lot of the foods I enjoy, and I have to do workouts and things. I also can't act like a child or a girl, which are both things that I am. I have to work really hard to hide some things... Like, if there's a cute Pokemon. I want to say it's cute, but.. I can't. I don't know. It's hard to explain. Some things I've been trying not to do for so long that I don't even realize. I know you are supposed to be yourself, so this contradicts what that really means, but... I can't explain it, and it would be hard to stop now (not to mention I would probably disappoint the people at the Gym with the way I really am.)
I've been told I am naive. I'm not really sure what that means, but I have also been told that I am too trusting and gullible. It's not my fault. I think people are good at heart. Why should they be lying to me? I also don't understand what people are talking about sometimes. They say I'll understand when I'm older, but I want to understand now! I try to act older sometimes, too, to try and get people to respect me. I want to be taken seriously so much. It's hard to be taken seriously when you're... well, me, though.
{Pink eyes close for a moment, and she breathes a deep sigh, glad to finally have that all off her chest and be done with it.}
I-i hope that's enough for you to understand me a little at least. I'm shy sometimes, but maybe you should just try to get to know me to usual way.
Things that are Groovy:
Pink
- Pink is my favorite color. But no, I didn't dye my hair! It really is pink. I just got lucky I guess. I also like blue a lot, that's my second favorite color.
Pokemon
- Especially the fighting type, they're so strong. And my own Pokemon, they are wonderful.
Daytime
- I prefer the sun and clear weather to the dark night, but I am supposed to enjoy all the times and seasons equally.
Cherry
- It's my favorite flavor?
Food
- I can't eat a lot of the foods I love anymore... But sometimes I sneak it. Shh!
Being Active
- I love things like sports, and even just taking walks. I'm so used to doing things that it's hard for me to stay still. I really like football, and sparring, and... well, you know.
Battling
- I have to, don't I? It's what I do for a living. But besides that, I love the rush and the feeling that somehow I am helping myself and my Pokemon become better.
[b}Strength (Inner and Outer)[/b]
- I've already explained that I strive for inner and outer strength, and I admire anyone who has it.
The Mountains
- I love the mountains! They're so beautiful, and it's always fun when I get to go there. Even if they are kind of cold... I mean, I don't get cold. Not at all. Really.
Cute Pokemon
- S-shhh! Please don't tell anyone! I also like things like plushies and dresses... My Mommy's dresses were so pretty. And flowers. But please don't mention it to ANYONE![/size][/color]
Things that aren't so Groovy:
The Dark
- I-I'm not scared. Not at all. But everything is worse in the dark, don't you think?
Too Much Responsibility
- It just gets to be too much sometimes... you know?
Clumsiness
- I'm clumsy sometimes, and it can be embarrassing.
Not being taken seriously
- It happens to me way more than I would like.
Words I don't understand
- Like "flirting." and "emotional disposition."
Being treated like a child
- I know I am still young, but I don't like when everyone throws it at my face constantly. Besides, I've had to learn early on how to take care of myself because of... well, you know...
When my daddy gambles all the time[/s][/size][/color]
But..I'm afraid!
{She looks even more serious than normal, along with rather... reflective?}
I am afraid of failure, most of all, I think. And fear itself, I suppose. I am supposed to be brave- but is part of being brave admitting that you have fears? Um, well, yes, failure. I worry all the time about letting people down... I hate for them to be disappointed in me. I'm one of those people who would rather be yelled at than have someone disappointed in me. But also, I don't like being yelled at. Some people can be really angry when they are angry. I'm also scared of crying in public. Sometimes I just get so sad, but I can't do it. I really can't. Big girls don't cry, that's what they always tell me. I'm not allowed to be afraid- So i fear being afraid. Does.. that make sense?
{You aren't entirely sure yourself, to be honest, and attempt to think of a way to change the subject, but she continues on, looking a little shifty as if she shouldn't tell you this last part (along with many other things she has already told you.)}
I am also a little teensy bit afraid of the dark. B-but don't tell anyone that, either.
{You wonder if she realizes that this interview is for a newspaper, but give an inaudible sigh and can't help but agree. You'll just have to look through and figure out what to include and what not to include.}[/color]
I like to...
I like to train, be with my Pokemon, go on picnics, go to the mountain, and see beautiful and wonderful places. There are a lot of things that I like doing, really, so I shouldn't limit it to these things. Like I said, I love sports. They're a lot of fun, running around and stuff. I like talking to people, too. Sometimes I'm kind of awkward talking to people, but once I get used to them I talk a lot more.
And I also like to garden. ...don'ttellanyone.
{The shifty look is back, but once again you are reminded of the fact that if you did tell someone, she could probably easily do something to make you regret it... although, now, you rather doubt she would do it.}[/color]
My reason?
Like I said, my reason for being a trainer and Gym Leader is to get strong. And also because I love my Pokemon, and the people of Veilstone. I have to help them, don't I? And...
{She hesitates, glancing towards the wall where a photo hang. The photo is of Maylene, appearing perhaps a year or two younger and with a small smile on her face. You can't help but feel as if she is happy that her father is taking a picture with her, but also... Sad, reasoning for which stood next to her. Her father had an even smaller smile, and he seemed to be rather depressed and stressed, appearing older than he probably was. Maylene speaks again, and you return your gaze to her.}
I want to make my Daddy proud, I guess. Maybe he'll notice me more if I do something amazing. I-I always think that he might, but...
{Her eyes become downcast for the moment, and you feel as if you are intruding on some sort of personal reflection, but she seems to remember you are there soon enough.}
I also just kind of got thrown into the job, didn't I? I almost didn't have a choice. ...Sometimes I wish I did have a choice, but that's no matter now. I do enjoy what I do, so I shouldn't complain.[/color]
Mandatory Angst:
{She squirms rather uncomfortably, and you can't say you blame her after all she has told you so far. Still, a story must be told (or at least heard), so you hope she continues.}
W-well I don't really want to tell you my whole life story, but if I have to...
{She takes a deep breathe; you can tell this is going to be a long one.}
Um... Well I grew up in Veilstone. That's where I've lived my whole life, actually. I think my parents both lived there for most of their life, too. I like it there. But, anyway, my mom died when I was young. I don't remember her all that much. I remember she was really nice and called me nice things and stuff, but I can't even remember how she looks, and my daddy doesn't have any photos.
{The sadness in her voice is evident, but she appears to be doing her best to ignore it as she continues on.}
But I guess she used to train Pokemon when she was younger, and she had a Gardevoir. I don't know what happened to her when she died, though.
{A small cough, and she continues on.}
Well, anyway, obviously me and my dad were really sad. But he tried really hard to make everything alright. He took on a lot of extra jobs to make sure we had enough money, and would be gone from early in the morning to late at night. He couldn't leave me at home, though, so he sent me to a babysitter.
She was a really nice girl. She always liked giving massages to Pokemon, so people brought them in all day and I got to see all kinds. Once someone brought in a Snorlax, and it was huge! She had to go outside to massage it. And, she even had a little brother about my age, too. His name was Tony and we played together all the time. Their house was next to the Pokemon Gym of the town, and we used to see strong looking trainers go in and out, sometimes with a shiny new badge that seemed really important to them (we didn't know why) and sometimes looking really upset and without one. We wanted to know what the big deal was, so one day when his sister was busy with her massage work we snuck into the Gym.
{This time, the shifty look was for admitting something that she shouldn't have done. There was also a sort of... Mischevious grin evident?! You can't be sure, for it is gone as soon as you might have seen it, although you continue to eye her curiously for a moment as she continues her story.}
It was... HUGE. Really! There was training equipment everywhere, too, like punching bags and fighting rings. We got lost almost immediately, but we got to see people training themselves and their Pokemon, which as really cool.
They were all so... strong. I-i didn't really understand what it meant to be strong, and I still don't, but I knew that I wanted to be strong. I wasn't strong enough to help my mom, and I wasn't strong enough to help my dad when he had to work all those jobs. I... wanted to be able to help, to have that strength. And seeing these Pokemon made me realize that they weren't just strong physically, but mentally, too. I tried explaining this to Tony, but... I'm not very good with words, you know, so he didn't get what I was saying. But just then these really strong hands grabbed up and pulled us up, and we found ourselves caught by a Machamp! Not just any Mahamp, either, but the Gym Leader's Machamp. I thought we were going to get in a lot of trouble. Tony said we should try and "make a break for it," like in the movies, but I couldn't move. Then, the Gym Leader asked us our names.
I said "Maylene" right away, but Tony got mad. He said I should have given a fake name, and he told him his name was "Quincy McPretzals." The Gym Leader just laughed at that, and had Machamp put us down. I guess he heard me talking about the Pokemon and their strength, because after he took us home, later that night when my dad came to pick me up he talked to us.
He... he said that I had determination, focus, and compassion, I think, and that it might be good for me to take up training at the gym. I guess there were a few kids my age training there already. At first I didn't know what to think about that. I wouldn't get to see Tony and his sister every day, and sometimes the training could be harsh. But then I thought about what I had said that made him want to train me in the first place, and I wanted to start the training more than anything.
{A nostalgic look passes her feature as she appears to remember that determination that she had started with. You can't help but feel as if she still has it, but agree that there is something about the beginning of such a determination that is something important.}
My dad reluctantly agreed, and I started my first day the next week.
I was intimidated at first. A lot of the kids were ahead of me, even if we were the same age. Some of them laughed at me when I didn't know what to do, and one time I punched a boy who said girls couldn't fight with themselves or Pokemon. I yelled at him that girls could fight, my mom had even won some Gym Badges when she was younger! But it wasn't a good thing to do, I know that now. I let my anger take control of me, and I was... sorry. Especially when he started crying, that made me feel bad.
{Despite her assertations that she felt bad about hurting him and woiuldn't do it again, you feel that familiar panic once more that this little girl could probably beat you up. You immediately make mental plants to go to the gym after this and try to restore some manner of self-respect.}
Either way, my training went on and I learned quickly. It was around this time that my dad got fired from his main job. He was really upset about that, and I think he was upset about my mom still and that I was spending most of my time at the Gym. They were like a second family to me there, but that didn't make him any less of a family. I was sorry... I think it's my fault that he ended up gambling every day with no jobs, using money from who knows where for himself since I ate at the Gym. He loves me, I know that, but he just... Didn't bother himself with much about me after that... But that's enough of that.
{A quick nod of agreement from your part encourages her to move on. Despite your own reputation as a wanna-be, hard-hitting journalist you really can't help but not want to make her feel sad. You need to work on this hard-hitting thing.}
Anyway, after a while the Gym Leader suddenly announced that I would be the next Gym Leader. It was a real shock. For one, no one had thought that he would retired anytime soon. Then, even if he was, there were so much more experience people training there that could take over. I... I didn't even have a Pokemon yet! I was worried, and scared. I still do not understand his choice. But then, my "Gym Leader" training started, and I didn't even have time to think about that.
{She looks as if she still cannot believe that she really is the Gym Leader, or that she was chosen for it. You secretly wonder if the old Gym Leader had a few screws loose, or if he picked names out of a hat or something. But you've heard she's good at her job, so...}
It was very intense. I was maybe about ten at that time, and was training from dawn until dusk. And not only was my body being trained, but my mind. I had to learn how to be like a Gym Leader, for one thing, and that involved suppressing a lot of the things that had... well, made me me. I couldn't act very girly. I had to be strong and wise and someone for others to look up to. I couldn't afford to mess up, or think that things were "cute," or even get a taste of the foods that weren't on my strict diet, like pizza... I tried to just keep my eyes on the goal, which was getting strong. And now I had the responsibility of being a Gym Leader in-training, too! It was a lot, but I made it through somehow.
{The disbelief on her face was evident, but you choose not to pursue the matter.}
When I was almost twelve I received my first Pokemon. They told me he had just hatched from an egg, and it was a big ceremony where I got him since I was going to be the Gym Leader. So when I went forward to accept him, he... started crying. I was so worried that he was going to hate me, and when I picked him up he started struggling. I almost started crying, but I remembered that I was not allowed to cry, and had to be strong. For some reason... I think that little Riolu sensed that I was trying, because he stopped crying eventually.
And we started training, and it became clear that he didn't hate me. Although he does get a little upset with me sometimes, I am sure... For example, today he didn't want me to do this interview, although usually he will get upset with me about more serius things, like acting like a real Gym Leader. Oh, I wonder where he went, actually... Probably the next room...
{At this, there is a bang from the next room and a short, irate "Lucario!" as if the Pokemon had dropped something in surprise of being found out. Maylene gives a small smile at this, but you're more amused by the fact that she seems to think she can understand the Pokemon that well.}
The training was just as intense for Riolu as it was for me. At that Gym we were told that we should go through training together always. A trainer should not ask a Pokemon to train and battle if they themselves are incapable of doing it, and training together like that creates a lot of trust.
Either way, my life went on until I was almost thirteen, when the Gym Leader suddenly announced that he was retiring and I was taking over.
{Pink eyes glanced downwards again, as she seemed to be remembering the day in great detail. When she spoke again her voice was quieter and even more serious.}
I... had been waiting for that day for a long time. I was so nervous, I couldn't breathe. Riolu was a Lucario by then, and we went through the ceremony together (as a trainer's first Pokemon was seem as extremely important, and showed their progress.) I made it through the ceremony and that was it. I was a Gym Leader, in name perhaps, but I still have a lot to do before I feel I really am one.
{When she looks back at you, there is a strange look in her eye- and for the first time in your interview, you feel as if she is a Gym Leader, truly. The determination and seriousness in her eyes as she spoke about it, perhaps, finally convinced you... Either way, you listen intently as she goes on.}
I had even more responsibility. I have only been one for about six months, which means that people do not always take me seriously, but... I'm trying. I'm trying so hard to do well. I've been taking up travelling recently, to try and see more Pokemon and become stronger... I hope it helps.
{Once more she seems relieved at letting this all out, and gives you a small smile. You can't help but return it.}
Oh and by the way...
{After looking thoughtful for a moment, she speaks, seeming to try and get out everything else before you leave.}
Even though I worry I'm not strong enough, I am pretty strong. I've hurt people before... Not that I'm proud of it. I can have a temper sometimes. I-I don't mean to hurt them. Anger is something I need to control. But, if I had to, I could easily defend myself... a-and possibly more.
I've always wanted to live in the mountains, and... And be in a musical.
{A slight blush appears as she admits these things.}
But this and everything else we've talked about? Don't tell anyone! I said that already but you really can't. It's between you and me.[/color]
I'm just a proxy for..
{At this question, you both look confused. You can't seem to remember writing this question, and she clearly has no idea what you seem to be talking about. You glance abck down at your paper, as if hoping to see something different, but instead there is some writing: SARAH. Completely freaked out, you cough and shakily inform her nevermind, you don't know what you mean by this question.}
{Finally the interview is over. The two of you shake hands, and you pack away your notes. Maylene gives you, for what you feel is the first time since you started, a genuine smile as she thanks you and you thank here, before you go on your way, feeling as if you have a little more insight into this new Gym Leader.
And, of course, you feel as if your conscience won't even let you print most of it. Damn. You've got some editting to do.}[/color]
i do not own these images! i got them from photobucket.[/b]
Too late, indeed, as the door to the small house in Veilstone opens and you are face-to-face with a young girl who is smiling hesitatingly at you. You blink, and ask if the Gym Leader is home.
"Oh? But, I am the Gym Leader." She tilts her head at you, and you stifle a laugh. This little girl? The Gym Leader? But her face is so serious and sincere that you can't help but push the laugh aside and give a small nod before being led into the house and to a small table where you begin your interview.}[/color]
- - M A Y L E N E *
Parents call me..
{She glances downwards at the word "parents," but when she looks back up at you a moment later her face is the same.}
Oh, well, it's just my dad, but he just calls me Maylene.
{She stops, brows furrowing as she struggles to remember something.}
Um, I think my mom called me Maylene too.
{A slight nod.}
And things like "honey" and "sweety." N-not like the stuff that attracts Pokemon, though, it seems it's just something people call each other- oh, you mean my full name? Well, it's Akiyama Sumomo.
My Friends call me..
Everyone I know just calls me Maylene... Well, some people will call me "Miss" or "Gym Leader Maylene," and some of the people at the dojo will call me teacher... Um, even though I'm not used to teaching anyone anything.
{She gives an inaudible little wince at this, but it is gone soon enough and you feel as if she wishes you hadn't seen it.}
Sometimes people will shorten my name to something like "May" or something, and I am sure there are plenty of other names people can call me (I have heard some rather mean ones sometimes when I defeat a challenger.)
{At this, instead of looking insulted she simply looks slightly amused, as if remembering some of them and the reasons for being called them. You want to ask her to fill you in, but too late, the look has passed and she seems ready for the next question.}
I'm not an it! I'm a..
{As for this question, her face finally shows shock, and you can tell she is wondering if you're serious.}
A-a girl, of course! I was pretty sure I looked like a girl. I hope I look like a girl, anyway. ...Are you saying I don't?!
{More shock, as she glances down at herself, as if wondering if perhaps she had been wrong this whole time.}
I might not wear dresses or skirts as much as other girls or anything, but I really am a girl. I mean, I don't look as girly as Tony's sister always did, b-but... I really am a girl.
{She seems to have calmed down now, but looks wary of the next question.}
I am a...
I'm a Gym Leader, of course. The Gym Leader for Veilstone City, I specialize in fighting Pokemon.
{A mixed look of confusion, stress, and pride grazes her face as she answers, as if realizing that this was indeed the case. She shakes it off and continues, although it appears she wonders if you'll believe what she's telling you.}
Um, I am also rather accomplished at martial arts, since my position requires it. They call me "the barefoot fighting genius." ...I-i don't think I am a genius, though, so it's rather embarrassing. But I am barefoot most of the time...?
{A quick glance down at her feet reveals that she is indeed barefoot. You send a puzzling glance her way; she looks as if she is used to it and merely shrugs.}
I think it's healthier.[/color]
I don't need wrinkle cream! I'm..
W-wrinkle cream? Does it hurt?
{In response to her slight panic, you shake your head and she appears to calm somewhat, although she does place a small hand to her face and wince as if imagining some sort of vile cream being placed on it.}
I'm only thirteen, which is extremely young for a Gym Leader, and even rather young for a trainer. I know. ...I-i'm sorry? But I try to act much older... It doesn't always work, though, but sometimes people tell me I'm"wise" in some senses.
{She looks as though she seriously doubts this, but you can't say you've been talking with her long enough to know for sure and cannot reassure her.}[/color]
Do you think I need a diet?
{For a split-second she makes a face at this}
I'm always on a diet, unfortunately, but um, I suppose I can tell you how I look.
I guess the first thing you would notice about how I look is my hair.
{You immediately agree with this, silently, of course.}
It's a bright pink color and pretty short. It has kind of points on the end, though, and Tony used to tell me they remind him of how Espeon's cheeks go out, but shaped a little differently. Um, my eyes are pink, too, and some people think that's too much pink since it's almost the same shade as my hair, but I like pink so I don't mind.
{She smiles at this, glancing upward as if attempting to get a look at said pink hair.}
I'm short. I really am, as unfortunate as it is. ...As if people didn't take me seriously because of my age, they also don't because of how short and young I look. But I've got muscle! Really! And you can see that. I like to point that out when people say I don't look intimidating. But yes, I do have a lot of muscle... But not like those body-builders with unnatural muscle! They kind of creep me out. I-it really isn't natural. But other than the muscle I am kind of skinny. Sometimes I have to fast for a few days when I go on my mountain mediation trips.
{At the mentioning of her having muscle, you are brought back to your first immediate thought of what the Gym Leader would be like. You can't help but think she is anything but what you first thought, but have to agree that she does indeed have muscle, and, well, could probably take you down, as embarrassing as it is to think it.}
I normally wear the same outfit, because it's comfortable, really. I wash it! I had to learn how to do things like washing my clothes at an early age, you know...
{She glances away for a moment, before coming back to reality}
Oh, I'm sorry... Right, the outfit. It's a sleeveless black and blue shirt (not like a bruise!) and a pair of almost baggy white pants with pink stripes. I also have a pair of really cool gloves that I hardly ever take off. I don't really have a reason for wearing them... I just like them a lot. Then I have a band aid on my nose, of course. I'm also known for never wearing shoes. Even in the cold blizzards of Mount Coronet. It helps me be closer to nature and build up my endurance.
{A sideways glance,}
evenifitisreallycold.
{You ask her if she said something and she tilts her head and looks at you curiously, although she appears to be blushing a little bit. You decide to move on.}
Like I said, my clothes are comfortable and I like wearing them. Obviously like anyone else I change my clothes a lot. When I was younger I used to like playing dress-up with my mom's old, way-too-big dresses, but... I can't anymore.
{Her expression becomes almost wistful, and you hurry onto the next question.}
My emotional disposition?
I-I'm not sure I know what that means.
{She looks as if she would rather not admit that, and she looks ashamed as she blushes a little. It is clear that she would rather not admit that she doesn't know. Instead of telling her straight out, you attempt to give her a hint. She seems to understand.}
My personality? Oh, well, I can try and tell you that, but I'm not sure if I'm the best judge of my own character.
{You can't help but agree with that: No one is the best judge of their own character. Who wrote these questions anyway?! Oh, right. You.}
Well... I think I'm a nice person. I try to be nice, anyway. Compassion was one of the reasons I was chosen to be the next Gym Leader, so I guess I don't just think that? I'm also a pretty determined and focused. When I want to do something, I get it done, or at least try as hard as I can to get it done. I try my hardest at everything, because if you don't try your hardest why would you bother doing it? Um, that's not to say I don't get distracted sometimes, but even if I do I always go back to what I was doing before and finish it. "Always finish what you start!" That's what the old Gym Leader used to tell me.
{She seems to be jumping back and forth, unsure of what to say but still spilling out anything that comes to mind about her own personality.}
I want to be strong. I-I mentioned that already, but... That's where most of my time goes, to training to become strong. I don't think I'm strong enough yet, but I don't really understand how to become strong or anything. I don't even know how I became Gym Leader. I guess that's another thing. Sometimes I get rather self-conscious... I worry that I am not strong enough and not good enough to really be able to be a Gym Leader, or even belong at the Gym. I'm down on myself sometimes. I... I need to be better. I have to be better, for me, for my Daddy, for the Gym, for the town... It's a lot of responsibility. Sometimes I just want to throw it all away, run away and stop all of this... And eat a lot of pizza and ice cream. But I really can't, and I know I can't. Sometimes it might seem easier to just run away, but I never could do that. The easiest thing isn't always the best thing. Most of the time, it isn't.
I spout random words of wisdom, sometimes. I was taught that wisdom and courage arr stronger than power, so I try to show that. I try to be brave, and it works. Wisdom is harder than courage for me... But I try. It's not just saying wise things, it's actually living them out yourself. You can't be a hypocrite. I dislike hypocrites... Although I suppose I have been one at least once in my life.
{It is clear that she seems to be regretting telling you all of these- You ARE a complete stranger, after all, and who knows who will read this? But she still seems to feel compelled to go on, and you can't help but wonder if she feels better letting it all out for once.}
I'm on a strict training regime. I can't eat a lot of the foods I enjoy, and I have to do workouts and things. I also can't act like a child or a girl, which are both things that I am. I have to work really hard to hide some things... Like, if there's a cute Pokemon. I want to say it's cute, but.. I can't. I don't know. It's hard to explain. Some things I've been trying not to do for so long that I don't even realize. I know you are supposed to be yourself, so this contradicts what that really means, but... I can't explain it, and it would be hard to stop now (not to mention I would probably disappoint the people at the Gym with the way I really am.)
I've been told I am naive. I'm not really sure what that means, but I have also been told that I am too trusting and gullible. It's not my fault. I think people are good at heart. Why should they be lying to me? I also don't understand what people are talking about sometimes. They say I'll understand when I'm older, but I want to understand now! I try to act older sometimes, too, to try and get people to respect me. I want to be taken seriously so much. It's hard to be taken seriously when you're... well, me, though.
{Pink eyes close for a moment, and she breathes a deep sigh, glad to finally have that all off her chest and be done with it.}
I-i hope that's enough for you to understand me a little at least. I'm shy sometimes, but maybe you should just try to get to know me to usual way.
Things that are Groovy:
Pink
- Pink is my favorite color. But no, I didn't dye my hair! It really is pink. I just got lucky I guess. I also like blue a lot, that's my second favorite color.
Pokemon
- Especially the fighting type, they're so strong. And my own Pokemon, they are wonderful.
Daytime
- I prefer the sun and clear weather to the dark night, but I am supposed to enjoy all the times and seasons equally.
Cherry
- It's my favorite flavor?
Food
- I can't eat a lot of the foods I love anymore... But sometimes I sneak it. Shh!
Being Active
- I love things like sports, and even just taking walks. I'm so used to doing things that it's hard for me to stay still. I really like football, and sparring, and... well, you know.
Battling
- I have to, don't I? It's what I do for a living. But besides that, I love the rush and the feeling that somehow I am helping myself and my Pokemon become better.
[b}Strength (Inner and Outer)[/b]
- I've already explained that I strive for inner and outer strength, and I admire anyone who has it.
The Mountains
- I love the mountains! They're so beautiful, and it's always fun when I get to go there. Even if they are kind of cold... I mean, I don't get cold. Not at all. Really.
Cute Pokemon
- S-shhh! Please don't tell anyone! I also like things like plushies and dresses... My Mommy's dresses were so pretty. And flowers. But please don't mention it to ANYONE![/size][/color]
Things that aren't so Groovy:
The Dark
- I-I'm not scared. Not at all. But everything is worse in the dark, don't you think?
Too Much Responsibility
- It just gets to be too much sometimes... you know?
Clumsiness
- I'm clumsy sometimes, and it can be embarrassing.
Not being taken seriously
- It happens to me way more than I would like.
Words I don't understand
- Like "flirting." and "emotional disposition."
Being treated like a child
- I know I am still young, but I don't like when everyone throws it at my face constantly. Besides, I've had to learn early on how to take care of myself because of... well, you know...
But..I'm afraid!
{She looks even more serious than normal, along with rather... reflective?}
I am afraid of failure, most of all, I think. And fear itself, I suppose. I am supposed to be brave- but is part of being brave admitting that you have fears? Um, well, yes, failure. I worry all the time about letting people down... I hate for them to be disappointed in me. I'm one of those people who would rather be yelled at than have someone disappointed in me. But also, I don't like being yelled at. Some people can be really angry when they are angry. I'm also scared of crying in public. Sometimes I just get so sad, but I can't do it. I really can't. Big girls don't cry, that's what they always tell me. I'm not allowed to be afraid- So i fear being afraid. Does.. that make sense?
{You aren't entirely sure yourself, to be honest, and attempt to think of a way to change the subject, but she continues on, looking a little shifty as if she shouldn't tell you this last part (along with many other things she has already told you.)}
I am also a little teensy bit afraid of the dark. B-but don't tell anyone that, either.
{You wonder if she realizes that this interview is for a newspaper, but give an inaudible sigh and can't help but agree. You'll just have to look through and figure out what to include and what not to include.}[/color]
I like to...
I like to train, be with my Pokemon, go on picnics, go to the mountain, and see beautiful and wonderful places. There are a lot of things that I like doing, really, so I shouldn't limit it to these things. Like I said, I love sports. They're a lot of fun, running around and stuff. I like talking to people, too. Sometimes I'm kind of awkward talking to people, but once I get used to them I talk a lot more.
And I also like to garden. ...don'ttellanyone.
{The shifty look is back, but once again you are reminded of the fact that if you did tell someone, she could probably easily do something to make you regret it... although, now, you rather doubt she would do it.}[/color]
My reason?
Like I said, my reason for being a trainer and Gym Leader is to get strong. And also because I love my Pokemon, and the people of Veilstone. I have to help them, don't I? And...
{She hesitates, glancing towards the wall where a photo hang. The photo is of Maylene, appearing perhaps a year or two younger and with a small smile on her face. You can't help but feel as if she is happy that her father is taking a picture with her, but also... Sad, reasoning for which stood next to her. Her father had an even smaller smile, and he seemed to be rather depressed and stressed, appearing older than he probably was. Maylene speaks again, and you return your gaze to her.}
I want to make my Daddy proud, I guess. Maybe he'll notice me more if I do something amazing. I-I always think that he might, but...
{Her eyes become downcast for the moment, and you feel as if you are intruding on some sort of personal reflection, but she seems to remember you are there soon enough.}
I also just kind of got thrown into the job, didn't I? I almost didn't have a choice. ...Sometimes I wish I did have a choice, but that's no matter now. I do enjoy what I do, so I shouldn't complain.[/color]
Mandatory Angst:
{She squirms rather uncomfortably, and you can't say you blame her after all she has told you so far. Still, a story must be told (or at least heard), so you hope she continues.}
W-well I don't really want to tell you my whole life story, but if I have to...
{She takes a deep breathe; you can tell this is going to be a long one.}
Um... Well I grew up in Veilstone. That's where I've lived my whole life, actually. I think my parents both lived there for most of their life, too. I like it there. But, anyway, my mom died when I was young. I don't remember her all that much. I remember she was really nice and called me nice things and stuff, but I can't even remember how she looks, and my daddy doesn't have any photos.
{The sadness in her voice is evident, but she appears to be doing her best to ignore it as she continues on.}
But I guess she used to train Pokemon when she was younger, and she had a Gardevoir. I don't know what happened to her when she died, though.
{A small cough, and she continues on.}
Well, anyway, obviously me and my dad were really sad. But he tried really hard to make everything alright. He took on a lot of extra jobs to make sure we had enough money, and would be gone from early in the morning to late at night. He couldn't leave me at home, though, so he sent me to a babysitter.
She was a really nice girl. She always liked giving massages to Pokemon, so people brought them in all day and I got to see all kinds. Once someone brought in a Snorlax, and it was huge! She had to go outside to massage it. And, she even had a little brother about my age, too. His name was Tony and we played together all the time. Their house was next to the Pokemon Gym of the town, and we used to see strong looking trainers go in and out, sometimes with a shiny new badge that seemed really important to them (we didn't know why) and sometimes looking really upset and without one. We wanted to know what the big deal was, so one day when his sister was busy with her massage work we snuck into the Gym.
{This time, the shifty look was for admitting something that she shouldn't have done. There was also a sort of... Mischevious grin evident?! You can't be sure, for it is gone as soon as you might have seen it, although you continue to eye her curiously for a moment as she continues her story.}
It was... HUGE. Really! There was training equipment everywhere, too, like punching bags and fighting rings. We got lost almost immediately, but we got to see people training themselves and their Pokemon, which as really cool.
They were all so... strong. I-i didn't really understand what it meant to be strong, and I still don't, but I knew that I wanted to be strong. I wasn't strong enough to help my mom, and I wasn't strong enough to help my dad when he had to work all those jobs. I... wanted to be able to help, to have that strength. And seeing these Pokemon made me realize that they weren't just strong physically, but mentally, too. I tried explaining this to Tony, but... I'm not very good with words, you know, so he didn't get what I was saying. But just then these really strong hands grabbed up and pulled us up, and we found ourselves caught by a Machamp! Not just any Mahamp, either, but the Gym Leader's Machamp. I thought we were going to get in a lot of trouble. Tony said we should try and "make a break for it," like in the movies, but I couldn't move. Then, the Gym Leader asked us our names.
I said "Maylene" right away, but Tony got mad. He said I should have given a fake name, and he told him his name was "Quincy McPretzals." The Gym Leader just laughed at that, and had Machamp put us down. I guess he heard me talking about the Pokemon and their strength, because after he took us home, later that night when my dad came to pick me up he talked to us.
He... he said that I had determination, focus, and compassion, I think, and that it might be good for me to take up training at the gym. I guess there were a few kids my age training there already. At first I didn't know what to think about that. I wouldn't get to see Tony and his sister every day, and sometimes the training could be harsh. But then I thought about what I had said that made him want to train me in the first place, and I wanted to start the training more than anything.
{A nostalgic look passes her feature as she appears to remember that determination that she had started with. You can't help but feel as if she still has it, but agree that there is something about the beginning of such a determination that is something important.}
My dad reluctantly agreed, and I started my first day the next week.
I was intimidated at first. A lot of the kids were ahead of me, even if we were the same age. Some of them laughed at me when I didn't know what to do, and one time I punched a boy who said girls couldn't fight with themselves or Pokemon. I yelled at him that girls could fight, my mom had even won some Gym Badges when she was younger! But it wasn't a good thing to do, I know that now. I let my anger take control of me, and I was... sorry. Especially when he started crying, that made me feel bad.
{Despite her assertations that she felt bad about hurting him and woiuldn't do it again, you feel that familiar panic once more that this little girl could probably beat you up. You immediately make mental plants to go to the gym after this and try to restore some manner of self-respect.}
Either way, my training went on and I learned quickly. It was around this time that my dad got fired from his main job. He was really upset about that, and I think he was upset about my mom still and that I was spending most of my time at the Gym. They were like a second family to me there, but that didn't make him any less of a family. I was sorry... I think it's my fault that he ended up gambling every day with no jobs, using money from who knows where for himself since I ate at the Gym. He loves me, I know that, but he just... Didn't bother himself with much about me after that... But that's enough of that.
{A quick nod of agreement from your part encourages her to move on. Despite your own reputation as a wanna-be, hard-hitting journalist you really can't help but not want to make her feel sad. You need to work on this hard-hitting thing.}
Anyway, after a while the Gym Leader suddenly announced that I would be the next Gym Leader. It was a real shock. For one, no one had thought that he would retired anytime soon. Then, even if he was, there were so much more experience people training there that could take over. I... I didn't even have a Pokemon yet! I was worried, and scared. I still do not understand his choice. But then, my "Gym Leader" training started, and I didn't even have time to think about that.
{She looks as if she still cannot believe that she really is the Gym Leader, or that she was chosen for it. You secretly wonder if the old Gym Leader had a few screws loose, or if he picked names out of a hat or something. But you've heard she's good at her job, so...}
It was very intense. I was maybe about ten at that time, and was training from dawn until dusk. And not only was my body being trained, but my mind. I had to learn how to be like a Gym Leader, for one thing, and that involved suppressing a lot of the things that had... well, made me me. I couldn't act very girly. I had to be strong and wise and someone for others to look up to. I couldn't afford to mess up, or think that things were "cute," or even get a taste of the foods that weren't on my strict diet, like pizza... I tried to just keep my eyes on the goal, which was getting strong. And now I had the responsibility of being a Gym Leader in-training, too! It was a lot, but I made it through somehow.
{The disbelief on her face was evident, but you choose not to pursue the matter.}
When I was almost twelve I received my first Pokemon. They told me he had just hatched from an egg, and it was a big ceremony where I got him since I was going to be the Gym Leader. So when I went forward to accept him, he... started crying. I was so worried that he was going to hate me, and when I picked him up he started struggling. I almost started crying, but I remembered that I was not allowed to cry, and had to be strong. For some reason... I think that little Riolu sensed that I was trying, because he stopped crying eventually.
And we started training, and it became clear that he didn't hate me. Although he does get a little upset with me sometimes, I am sure... For example, today he didn't want me to do this interview, although usually he will get upset with me about more serius things, like acting like a real Gym Leader. Oh, I wonder where he went, actually... Probably the next room...
{At this, there is a bang from the next room and a short, irate "Lucario!" as if the Pokemon had dropped something in surprise of being found out. Maylene gives a small smile at this, but you're more amused by the fact that she seems to think she can understand the Pokemon that well.}
The training was just as intense for Riolu as it was for me. At that Gym we were told that we should go through training together always. A trainer should not ask a Pokemon to train and battle if they themselves are incapable of doing it, and training together like that creates a lot of trust.
Either way, my life went on until I was almost thirteen, when the Gym Leader suddenly announced that he was retiring and I was taking over.
{Pink eyes glanced downwards again, as she seemed to be remembering the day in great detail. When she spoke again her voice was quieter and even more serious.}
I... had been waiting for that day for a long time. I was so nervous, I couldn't breathe. Riolu was a Lucario by then, and we went through the ceremony together (as a trainer's first Pokemon was seem as extremely important, and showed their progress.) I made it through the ceremony and that was it. I was a Gym Leader, in name perhaps, but I still have a lot to do before I feel I really am one.
{When she looks back at you, there is a strange look in her eye- and for the first time in your interview, you feel as if she is a Gym Leader, truly. The determination and seriousness in her eyes as she spoke about it, perhaps, finally convinced you... Either way, you listen intently as she goes on.}
I had even more responsibility. I have only been one for about six months, which means that people do not always take me seriously, but... I'm trying. I'm trying so hard to do well. I've been taking up travelling recently, to try and see more Pokemon and become stronger... I hope it helps.
{Once more she seems relieved at letting this all out, and gives you a small smile. You can't help but return it.}
Oh and by the way...
{After looking thoughtful for a moment, she speaks, seeming to try and get out everything else before you leave.}
Even though I worry I'm not strong enough, I am pretty strong. I've hurt people before... Not that I'm proud of it. I can have a temper sometimes. I-I don't mean to hurt them. Anger is something I need to control. But, if I had to, I could easily defend myself... a-and possibly more.
I've always wanted to live in the mountains, and... And be in a musical.
{A slight blush appears as she admits these things.}
But this and everything else we've talked about? Don't tell anyone! I said that already but you really can't. It's between you and me.[/color]
I'm just a proxy for..
{At this question, you both look confused. You can't seem to remember writing this question, and she clearly has no idea what you seem to be talking about. You glance abck down at your paper, as if hoping to see something different, but instead there is some writing: SARAH. Completely freaked out, you cough and shakily inform her nevermind, you don't know what you mean by this question.}
{Finally the interview is over. The two of you shake hands, and you pack away your notes. Maylene gives you, for what you feel is the first time since you started, a genuine smile as she thanks you and you thank here, before you go on your way, feeling as if you have a little more insight into this new Gym Leader.
And, of course, you feel as if your conscience won't even let you print most of it. Damn. You've got some editting to do.}[/color]
i do not own these images! i got them from photobucket.[/b]
