A microbiologist and a Cylon walk into a pokémon lab... ((for youmeandpokemon))

[chiron_survivor]

As soon as Professor Madrone confirms a good time to drop by his lab, Adia prepares for the visit. It entails little change from how she usually prepares to visit the Nexus -- the only delay is Caspar getting ready, too.

He asked to come with her, but she has to remind him not to wear a suit, not unless he wants it covered in pokémon fur, feathers, or who knows what else. So he needs a little more time to pick out something casual -- jeans and button-down, which he's not thrilled about.

Adia assures him that he looks as professional as always, and teleports them to the coordinates that the professor sent her.

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[youmeandpokemon]

Madrone also waves goodbye to the different Magnemite and Clefairy, the guiding Magmemite is especially happy, even if his new friends are leaving. Even if apart, the bond between Pokemon and human is a strong one indeed.

There's two ways of leaving the cave, going back the way they came, or taking the shortcut, as Madrone removes a PINpoint from his vest pocket. The easy way gets three hungry Pokemon back to the lab faster, along with ensuring everyone's safety.

"No objections to PINpointing back, I'm assuming?" If the group agrees, he's more than happy to extend his hand and port them back the front of the lab.

[chiron_survivor]

"None whatsoever," Caspar says quickly. He's totally fine with not trekking back through the cave full of psychic pokémon.

With Tepig in his arms, he can't easily take Madrone's hand, so Adia does it for him, Rowlet still perched neatly on her shoulder. She takes Caspar's hand and smiles at him sympathetically. It has been an exciting day, but she can tell that he'd probably like to get back home and recharge. (Metaphorically.)

[youmeandpokemon]

Once everyone has gotten a hold of each other, Madrone hits the button on his PINpoint, bringing everyone back to the entrance of the lab. The sun has already started to set, any many daytime Pokemon are scurrying back to their nests. Alas, Madrone's work won't stop after the sun sets, but he'll make sure the starter Pokemon get a good meal and also properly see Adia and Caspar off.

"I hope the trip was worth the time. It was enjoyable getting to spend some time with the two of you." He means it, since the life of a Professor lacks a lot of human interactions. "My door is always open for the two of you to come visit at anytime. I would advise calling first to make sure I'm here."

[chiron_survivor]

The sight of the setting sun takes Adia by surprise. Has that much time gone by? It feels like they only just arrived at Madrone's estate. "It was wonderful, Professor." She smiles warmly, squeezing his hand before letting go. "I feel like I learned so much today." Even if one took away the stranger events within the cave, she was happy to get to know the professor better, too.

Caspar's response is far more subdued, although he nods along to Adia's words. Madrone has apparently passed whatever test the Cylon likes to internally give everyone he meets.

"All right, princess. Last stop." He sets down Tepig, who whines a little at his impending departure. "I assume we're holding onto these for more field work?" he asks Madrone, holding up his pokédex.

Rowlet gives a friendly nuzzle to Adia's cheek before fluttering down to the ground. She hopes that the human can come by to visit again, but for now she's looking forward to returning to her poké ball and taking a nap.

[youmeandpokemon]

Adia's touch gets a faint blush and smile from Madrone, who happily clasps his hands around Adia's for a gentle shake. He's definitely happy that Adia and Caspar are good people who can be trusted around the Pokemon population. "I'm glad that the two of you had an enjoyable trip. You're more than welcome to come back and visit as much as you like."

He lets go of Adia's hand, nodding politely to Caspar. "Yes. Consider it an unofficial assignment from me to you. Continue observing and scanning Pokemon as you come upon them. The data will help my research of Pokemon living in the Nexus."

Rowlet, after saying his goodbyes, flutters back to Professor Madrone's side. Tepig, however, is still nudging Caspar's leg with her snout, whimpering a bit. Madrone has to coax the pig over to him, mainly reminding her that's its time for dinner.

[chiron_survivor]

"We'll be sure to," she says sincerely. She has a feeling that the professor could use some company. It's not easy being the new guy in the Nexus, especially when most of your time is tied up in research. "Hopefully with more data for your research."

Caspar quietly pockets the pokédex. He's not going to turn down free use of tech, even if he's not entirely sure how much time he'll have for pokémon spotting.

Tepig's whimpering catches him by surprise. When's the last time someone (other than Adia) was sorry to see him go? "Don't worry, I'll be back to visit," he promises the little pig. If she hasn't already been scooped up by a trainer, a thought that leaves him a little hollow inside.

He shakes off the bad feeling. C'mon, Caspar, you can't take care of a pokémon. "We should get going," he murmurs to Adia, wanting to put some physical distance between himself and this unusual sentiment.

"Thank you again, Professor. We'll be in contact soon." And with a final wave goodbye, she and Caspar head back on the path towards the Plaza, the lengthening shadows of the evening sky leaving a trail behind them.