Post by kira on Nov 15, 2009 20:41:56 GMT -5
The exchange square smack in the middle of the Battle Frontier was crowded shoulder to shoulder, excited voices buzzing around your head from every direction. So this was the Frontier.. Was it normally this busy? The large number of trainers awaiting their chance to take any of the five Frontier challenges began to send one thought through your head: Would the man you came to see even have time for the interview? If he couldn't get off, or if the session was cut short, it would be disappointing yet understandable. Well, it was worth a shot to at least try and see him instead of assuming he was too busy.. We all know what they say about assuming.
As you climb the long stairway to the second "floor" of the Frontier, you cant help but stare up at the large building in front of you in awe. Tower was an understatement, it was more like a skyscraper. The facility seemed to have no actual walls, just windows, though they was impossible to see into thanks to the suns bright rays being reflected off the surface. Thick, red beams ran up the front corners of the building, marking where the elevators were. You raise your clipboard over your face as you squint your eyes, shielding them from the suns glare that the glass reflected. Finally at the top of the steps, you make your way towards the doors, still slightly blinded by the light. Approaching the entrance, the sliding doors suddenly fly open, and-
THUD!
You find yourself splayed on the floor, stars and pidgeys circling around your head. What the hell just happened?! The sound of another person scrambling to their feet and brushing their clothes off is heard, and suddenly a rather tall man is standing to your left.
Oi! Are you okay?!
His voice is deep and he speaks at a rather fast pace, as if there was some sort of rush. Sitting up and rubbing your head you give him a slight nod, turning your head to look up at the man. His arm is outstretched, offering to help you up, and you accept. Pulling you to your feet, he then kneels down to pick up your clipboard and pen, handing it back to you before standing up straight again.
Ah, good, I thought I hurt you. Don't hang out in front of the doors though, ok? A lot of people come through here every hour.
Was that a joke? You turn to look back at him, open your mouth to say something, then pause once you realize who he is. Tower Tycoon Palmer, the very man you came to interview. With a quick apology for not recognizing him, you explain that you're here for the interview, and he lets out a strong laugh.
Ah! I was wondering when you were going to get here, that's why I was rushing outside and ran into you... Literally! Come on, we'll do this in the lobby. I took my break now since I knew I'd be expecting you around this time, so we can get this done nice and quick.
With a smile, you give a slight nod, following the Tower Tycoon inside.
Tower Tycoon, That Man..
Palmer! [/size][/color]
My Parents Call Me.. [/size][/color]
The corners of the mans mouth pull down slightly as a rather hesitant look covers his face. For some reason or another, he was almost resistant to answer the question. Finally, after a few more moments, Palmer crossed his arms, looked down slightly and closed his eyes as he mumbled the next words.
My parents used to call me.. Palmsies.
Choking back laughter, you bite your lower lip in attempt to help stifle it. At hearing the noise, his eyes open and flash up to look at you, only to see your expression was one of sheer amusement.
No, it's not funny! Besides, that was just my nickname as a little kid. I bet you had an embarassing one, too. Once I hit the teen years I was just 'Palmer', since they acknowledged the fact that I wasn't a child anymore... Or Palmer J. Kurotsugu whenever I got them really mad... And Arceus, it wasn't pretty when they got mad...
My Nickname Is.. [/size][/color]
The other Brains simply call me Palmer, since I've told them it is the preferred nickname. They've teased and said 'Palmsies' once or twice, but they don't push it with that since they know I really don't like being called that.. Other names I get from people are Mr. Kurotsugu or just the Tower Tycoon. Whatever name people use, it's usually spoken with respect.
Palmer shifts in his seat to sit up straight, shoulders back, as he crosses his arms and gives a small nod. Was he.. Bragging a little? Whether it was or not, his change in posture made it seem like a brag in disguise. It was obvious that the man took pride in his status, as most celebrities of the pokemon world did, but he didn't put in as much effort to hide it.
The nickname doesn't matter to me, as long as it isn't anything insulting.
Don't Call Me 'It'[/size][/color]
The mans eyebrows furrow slightly, a confused and annoyed look on his face.
My gender is.... Questionable to you? That's rather insulting! I'm 100% man, I don't look feminine at all. The fact that that had to be asked is unfathomable. Tell me that wasn't a serious question.
Apparently, the question was insulting even though it wasn't intended to be. With a quick shake of your head, you explain it was just a standard question, trying to get him to chill out at least a little. Of course his gender was obvious, but it was still a question on the sheet that had to be asked. Perhaps it was something that should be taken off the interview sheet, since most people asked it ended up insulted or upset over it. His expression softens a bit, still looking somewhat confused.
Well if it's obvious then why even ask it? That's a question that should be skipped unless you really don't have a clue.
I Am..
The Tower Tycoon. I manage the facility you are sitting in right now. Isn't it a grand place? The Battle Tower was the first frontier building to be constructed, did you know that? On an average day this place is packed. Of course it's empty right now, since we're temporarily closed for this interview.
He gives another small nod then shifts his orange eyes to look around the empty place. It was rather odd for him to see the place so empty, even though he knew there was a reason why. The man returns his gaze to you, a smile stretching onto his face.
It's definitely a job I enjoy doing since I get quite a few good challenges per day. The constant battling helps keep me sharp, since I try to train both myself and my pokemon. I'll be a bit down when it comes time to retire, since it'll leave me with little to do. Probably won't be able to travel far.. Ah well! Kicking back will be nice after some long years of battling. Plus I'll get to go home to Roxy, no need to prolong her wait.
Age Is Just Numbers![/size][/color]
Age means nothing! You're only as old as you feel, right? I definitely don't feel older at all, I'm in great shape and always have energy. Besides, like some people say, you are every age you've ever been.
With an amused smile, you give a small nod, then go on to point out that he didn't answer the actual question. In fact, it seemed as if he were avoiding the question. The man hesitates for a quick moment, then the corners of his mouth pull upwards as he lets out a small sigh.
Thirty nine, almost fourty. Time really flies by, it's hard to understand.. I am not old though, I've had a few people call me 'old man'. I am more middle aged, and there is a big difference between being old and middle aged.
What About My Looks? [/size][/color]
I don't really need to describe me, take a look for yourself.
Rising from his seat the man stands at a towering
Palmer's attire wasn't anything flashy. In fact it seems as if he was dressed to be more comfortable than fashionable, not to say that his outfit doesn't look good. Of course he cares about how he looks he was one of the known figures in the pokemon world and couldn't be caught looking sloppy. He wears his grass green, one-of-a-kind trench coat, and it is the piece of clothing he wore nearly everywhere. If people for some reason didn't recognize his face, his jacket was a giveaway of who he was. The end of his coat comes down to his knees and the back center iws split up to his waist, creating two tails. His coats collar is a turnover, standing straight around the neck up to his jawline, then folding over. In a large, yellow font, the kanji sign '王' is printed on the back between his shoulder blades. What it means? 'King'. Three golden, oval buttons run down each side of his jacket, left open to reveal the plain white turtleneck shirt he has on underneath. His hands are hidden behind black gloves, the reason for them being worn was a mystery since it wasn't even that warm out. Just to add to his attire maybe? It wasn't something important enough to dwell over,so you continue your little examination. Covering his legs are brown khaki pants, a bit baggy to have some extra moving room, and held up by a black belt. Fastened to the front of his belt is a golden, oval beltbuckle that matches the buttons on his jacket, only there is a pattern engraved on it to make it seem like a pokeball. And lastly, his shoes. Plain black and polished shiny.
Well, that was wrapped up. Dotting your last 'i', you flip the page, officially marking the appearance section 'over'. Seeing that you've moved onto the next section, Palmer returns to his seat, looking at you eye-to-eye once more.
My Personality? [/size][/color]
Hm.. Well, overall I'm a pretty friendly guy, I'd like to think. I've always treated others with respect as long as they were respectful, and even if they aren't I try to keep my patience as long as I can. Ever since I was little I've been rushy and impatient, but I've become a lot less rude. When I was a teen I used to threaten to fine people if they got in my way, hah! Can't tell you how many people would get annoyed by that line! I've gained a great deal of maturity over time but I'm still told that I have a childish streak in me.
A smile spreads on your face at those words, since it is actually something you wouldn't doubt for a second. Palmer definitely did have a few short moments during the interview so far, but it wasn't anything out of line. After all, he's almost fourty, there's no way he'd allow himself to get too immature in another persons presence. From what you can tell, he is mature, friendly, and-
Smug. The other brains have emphasized that I come off as very confident, a fact.. That I will not even attempt to deny! I take pride in my pokemons' strength, since I've trained long and hard to get them to the point they're at now. Of course the other Frontier Brains take pride in their titles, too, but I guess I don't try to hide it as much as they do.
From the first time he had dropped a small hint of bragging you could tell that his personality was on the smug side, but it didn't seem to go as far as being conceited. Palmer just didn't seem like the kind of guy to put others down, despite his confidence in himself. Hopefully that impression you picked up is true. Vanity is not a good trait for someone with his status to have. You give him a nod as you go to flip the page, but he speaks up once more.
Oh and, uh.. One more thing. I tend to be quite... Forgetful. I held a tournament in Twinleaf once to see what trainer was strong enough to have a battle with me and.. Ended up accidentally forgetting about it for Octillery shaped chicken. Don't laugh! It was just so good that it distracted me, but uh, anyway, we should move on! We only have half an hour for this!
Another small chuckle escapes your lips at the mans embarrassed rush to move away from the subject, and before moving on, you add the word 'quirky' to the list that describes him. Hesitating a moment, you steal a quick glance at the Tower Tycoon, whom raises his brow at the sight of you write down something extra. Even though the guy was good-natured, he probably wouldn't appreciate it if he read the paper and saw that you wrote down 'quirky'. Quickly scribbling out the word, you move on to the next section before he can even ask.
Thumbs Up [/size][/color]
The Battle Frontier.
Only trainers who have challenged and gotten to a certain point in the Elite Four are allowed to enter the Frontier, so we get to go up against some exceptionally strong pokemon! It's also a nice social square, a lot of people lounge near the vendors and strike up conversations between their challenges. We even get as busy as the Pokemon League! A visit to the Frontier is definitely something that should be on everyones 'to-do' list.
Teasing Thorton.
Harmless fun, but it's just too easy to do.
Posing.
A fun thing to do, especially when Dragonite goes along with it. It may seem vain, but it's a fun and different way to announce our arrival.
Last but not least, family.
Though I don't get to see them much, they still mean a lot to me. Roxys been great, staying so patient despite the fact that I barely ever get to visit home. Don't worry, I keep in touch, I'm not that forgetful! Then there's Jun, the best son a guy could ask for. Takes after me in so many ways, and I know he'll be just as skilled a trainer as I am. After all, he's my son, so of course he'll be!
Thumbs Down [/size][/color]
Early mornings.
Just because I'm used to having to be awake by 5:30 doesn't mean I like it. The Frontier opens early, so we need to get up even earlier to ensure that we have enough time to prepare both ourselves and our Pokemon. Is sleeping until the sun actually comes up really too much to ask? At this point, coffees become the greatest thing since sliced bread. Weekends are better though, doors open around noon.
Some of the challengers we get at the Frontier.
Dahlia, Darach, Thorton, Argenta and I usually hang around after each day and share stories about obnoxious trainers who can't admit defeat. Oh the profanity that goes flying.
Caitlin.
.. Personally, I don't think of her as a Frontier Brain. She has Darach do everything for her, and shes thrown some of the most vicious tantrums ever recorded in history. I'm pretty sure her last one woke up the other side of the world. How Darach puts up with that attitude everyday is way beyond me, but I really do feel sorry for the guy.
Me? Frightened? [/size][/color]
A hesitation is what you get from the man as he shifts uncomfortably in his seat and crosses his legs. Well, from his body language, it was easy to tell whatever he was about to say bothered him quite a bit.
Honestly, I fear.. Death more than anything. It's a natural fear I know, but the thought just doesn't go over well with me. My desire to live is very strong, which is why I try to keep myself in the best shape I possibly can. I guess my fear isn't death itself, but having my life cut short. I may not necessarily be 'young' anymore, but there's still a lot more of my life to live. I refuse to miss a beat.
His expression shifts to be less severe now, though the usual smile has yet to reappear. Dang, talking about his fears seemed to be a serious topic for him. In every other question you had asked so far, a smile had broken over his expression at least once.
I'm not sure if you would call these next things fear, it's more like not being fond of what's to come. I really don't look forward to the day when it'll be difficult to hide gray hairs. I know that sounds like something a girl would say, b-but you can't blame me! I've always had a thick head of hair, and even though graying is a problem.. Balding is what really scares me. It's not funny! You don't think of it because you're still young and far from my age, but one day you'll be stressing over that, too!
Hobbies. We All Have Them. [/size][/color]
Well, whenever I'm not battling in the Tower, I'm training my pokemon in the Survival zone. No, it never ends. Gotta keep 'em all sharp! Guess that's the usual though, not a hobby. Ah, I know! Pokemon Pingpong!
Looking up from the clipboard, you give him a look of slight shock. You'd have never guessed he was into that sport, but as you think it over, Pokemon Pingpong seemed like something Palmer would be good at. He was lively enough to play a good game, and his pokemon definitely had the power to pack a hard whack to the pingpong ball.
I first played it in my teen years with Mr. Hikari, and we were both very competitive about it. Never entered a tournament though. Being the cocky teenager I was, I didn't think I had to enter a tournament to prove I was number one. I wish I had entered one now though, since I don't have the time for a full game anymore. When we have the time Dragonite and I will practice for fun by ourselves, whacking it against the wall so it bounces back at us. Occassionally we'll convince one of the other Brains to play with us, but it rarely happens.
Why Be A Trainer? [/size][/color]
Why not be a trainer? You get to travel all over, meet countless people and train Pokemon. The thrill of battle is the reward for rigorous training! Winning isn't everything, but of course we all love to win. I know I do, but a loss is a loss and it must be accepted. Besides! If you won every battle, where is the fun in that? Wouldn't it get boring after a while?
.. Just look at how Volkner got.
At that last statement, you couldn't help but let out a snort of amusement, and his own laugh follows yours. It was a point well made, that winning loses it's value and excitement when it happens too much.
Besides, training is great! Twenty nine long years of working with pokemon, and I still get a thrill.
The Story of My Life [/size][/color]
Hm.. When you interview people like me, I bet you expect these dazzling stories about struggle and triumph or awesome adventures, right? Some sort of exciting story that's unique yet unusual?
At his words you get the feeling that some sort of fantastic story was about to be told, a story that would keep you on the edge of your seat. He was the Tower Tycoon, it was hard to expect any less! Leaning in a bit, you hold your pen to your clipboard, gazing up at the man with eyes wide in excitement.
... Well... Sorry to disappoint you, but I don't have a story like that!
As you nearly faceplant off your seat, Palmer lets out a loud, ringing laugh. His arms fold as the corners of his mouth stretch into the widest grin you've probably ever seen, orange eyes filled with light-hearted amusement.
I know, I'm sorry for building the moment up like that, but it's true. I got along like any other trainer, lots of hard work and dedication. Of course I was always impatient to get from A to Z, even moreso than any other child when they first begin their adventure. The only thing that was a little different about my Pokemon journey was how I got my starting pokemon. I had gone to Lake Verity when I was little, convinced that I'd find a rare pokemon there, and ended up being jumped by an angry Starly. I stepped on her tail feathers, and it was made clear that she didn't appreciate it. There was a suitcase with a few pokeballs inside, and at that moment it didn't seem wrong to use one to defend myself. I laugh every time I see a Starly now, but I remember that.. That I was terrified of them for quite the while.
It was too late to keep the laugh from escaping your mouth, but you immediately cut it off. His eyes widen a bit at your reaction, and he speaks quickly in his own defense.
W-well hey! I was ten!
The two of you stare each other down in complete silence for a few long moments, then burst into laughter. Knowing the high status the man had now, it was hard to imagine that he had ever been afraid of a small Starly. Wiping the tear from your eye as the laughter dies down, you go to flip the page, but he stops you. Looking up at him, there is a completely new expression on his face, one you had yet to see. The look on his face was.. Gentle, relaxed even. It was a change of tune from the lively, loud character you were interviewing before.
There is a part of my life I'd like to share with you. It may not be action or adventurous, but.. It's definitely my best memory.. I'll share if you're willing to listen.
With a nod and a smile, you watch as the man seems to be set off into a light daze, recalling the moments he was about to share.
About thirteen years ago.. Jun was born, and.. Happiness, pride, fear.. All the things I had felt in those first moments of his life. I was both ecstatic about being a father, but completely and utterly terrified as well. Frightened of even touching him, since it is so easy to injure something so delicate.. Also afraid that I wouldn't be a good role model for him. Roxy was convinced I'd be a perfect father, and she always had this ability to make me relax when I was anxious. Just.. The way she spoke, how loving she sounded, it was enough to calm the soul. Of course I was still nervous, but... The first time I held Jun.. I felt more pride and happiness than anything, and that bit of fear I felt washed away. This was my boy.. MY boy, and I had never felt happier or closer as a family. Jun growing up will always be my best memories, up until when.. Well, when I was chosen as Tower Tycoon. While the Frontier was still under construction they were holding tournaments to decide the Brains of each facility, and Roxy urged me to enter. We both wanted to see how far I'd get.. Little did we know that I'd end up victor. As sad as she was to let me go, she knew it was a great opportunity. I promised I'd make both of them proud.
.. So don't let anyone convince you that I don't care about my family. Every now and then I'll try to hunt for any kind of update on Jun's gym challenge progress. When I hear about a victory of his, it brings out the biggest smiles. Of course I'm upset that I missed a few years of his childhood, but he's become independent and strong. I couldn't possibly be more proud, and I look forward to battling him someday.
Some Extra Info For You
Hmmmm.... There's nothing more to know, I've told you pretty much everything. We seem to be at the end of my break anyway, so there wouldn't have been any time to discuss anything further. Hope I was able to provide you with everything you needed! I must be heading back to my post now, it was nice chatting with you. Farewell!
Rising from his seat and making his way towards the counter, he waves a goodbye over his shoulder before stepping into the elevator and disappearing behind the doors as they close. He wasn't kidding when he said he was rushy by nature, that had to be the most abrupt goodbyes ever. Who can blame him though, he had a job to do. The lady behind the counter unlocks the doors, allowing dozens of trainers to come rushing back inside the building. Well, there is the end of the peace and quiet you just had for half an hour. No reason to stick around here anymore.
The One Who Stalks Me Most Is.. [/size][/color]
With that, you flip back to the first page of your clipboard, gather your belongings, and bid the Battle Tower adieu. Well, it seemx less crowded now than it did before. At least it'd be easier to get to the exit, right? Making your way across the Frontier, your eye spies something rather odd: A young female curled up on the bench, knees to her chest with the rim of her plaid hat pulled down to cover her eyes. Getting a closer look you realize that she is.... Snoozing? How is that even possible, considering the Frontier is such a noisy place. What an odd girl.. Apparently, from the letters embroidered on the right arm of her jacket, her name is 'Kira'. Odd name for an odd girl.
Whatever, it is none of your business where she decided to sleep, so why bother her? Whirling on your heels, you continue forward, making a beeline for the exit..
FIN.
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