#001 | VIDEO (UN; PROFESSEUR)

[sycamour]

[It's been a few days since Sycamore arrived in Lunatia, and he feels he's managed to learn the ropes well enough; there's been one thing that has stood out to him more than anything else, however. It's likely not what he should be focusing on, but...well, he's always believed in following one's intuition whenever it strikes.

When his image pops up, it's framed quite nicely, as if this isn't the first time he's spoken to others through a video network. He's seated himself in a quiet corner of Cafe Azure, leaning back in the chair and smiling softly into the camera.]

Salut! I do hope I'm doing this right.

[One moment! A waiter has appeared off-screen bearing a beverage, and the professor chats with them for a moment before he returns his attention to the feed.]

It's come to my attention that most people in this city have no idea what Pokémon are! Such an odd experience, but not an unwelcome one! I see this as an opportunity to educate those who are interested!

[Reaching underneath the table for a moment, he soon emerges with what looks like a small orange fox. Said fox is obviously very pleased with being on-camera, if the little pose it makes has anything to do with it. Sycamore, meanwhile, takes a quick sip of coffee after Fennekin has settled himself on the table, looking momentarily pensive.]

Ah, where to begin with such a topic...I am used to beginner trainers, yes, but not those who have no experience with Pokémon whatsoever! I have been mulling this over for a few days now-

[-while spending ample time in whatever café is nearby, because that helps the academic process-]

-and have decided that perhaps it would be easier if I gave anyone who was interested the chance to contact me personally!

[Smiling again, Sycamore pauses for a moment, as if finished...before slapping the table and surging forward towards the camera, scaring the life out of poor Fennekin-]

I cannot believe this! I have forgotten to introduce myself, amidst all this Pokémon-related excitement! I am Professor Sycamore, a researcher from the Kalos region! It would truly be my pleasure to share my knowledge with any of you who are interested in learning more about these wonderful creatures we call Pokémon! Let me give you an introduction-

[...or not, because as soon as Sycamore is ready to launch into his monologue, two more Pokemon pop up into the video...before the latter one accidentally bumps the camera and switches it off.

...

enchanté...]

Comments

[sycamour]

Well then, enchanté, Hilda. The pleasure is all mine! My full name is Augustine Sycamore, but you can call me whatever you like.

[Chances are he'll answer to anything she chooses, sooo....

He definitely doesn't miss the way her smile softens when she looks at Fennekin, though, and his own can't help but mimic it. A soft spot for cute Pokémon was always a fabulous character trait; it said a great deal about a person and their temperament.

...

...if he has to be honest, the cute ones always did seem to attract women rather easily...definitely an unplanned perk...definitely unplanned....]

Careful now, I may take you up on that! I'm never too busy to share my knowledge about Pokémon; particularly when a beautiful woman is asking.

[He'll let that one linger in the air, for a bit (with an appropriately flirtatious smile, of course!), before turning his attention to his three little friends (who may or may not be eye-rolling at the complete lack of subtly coming from their charming trainer-)]

Their names are Chespin, Fennekin, and Froakie! They're rather special little things. I may be a little biased, but it's the truth!

[inveigle]

[Hmm, yes, Augustine is much better than Professor, given the, um... other professor she knows. She makes a note of that—and also laughs when he drops that line, bringing the hand at her chin up to coyly cover her widening smile. Playing the part of the oh-so flattered maiden! Her specialty.

But she makes sure to listen attentively as he introduces each Pokémon, nodding from behind her hand until he's through... and then it's time for mock surprise, eyes widening.]

A biased professor? Oh, dear. [A beat for that added dramatic effect, and then, as she lets her hand drop so he can see her playful smile:] Not that I'll tell anyone. It can be our secret... Augustine.

[Testing the first name waters, oop.]

In return, maybe you'll let me meet your friends in person? I think they're special, too. [Because as she shifts her focus back down to these precious critters:] Hello! Your names are just as cute as you are!

[Does she know if they can understand her? No, but something, something, charm the wyvern, charm the rider.]

[sycamour]

[....if only Constance could observe this absolute master class in flirting....

Regardless, whatever condescension the Pokémon currently possess is being directed at their trainer alone; Hilda's compliments are clearly hitting the mark, if the happy beaming they're doing is any indication. Their joy is infectious, and Sycamore can't help laughing softly.]

Look at that! I think they like you. I have always said they have fantastic taste!

[That first name usage has also hit the mark, as Sycamore is grinning again. It's always so fun, playing this game. First his Pokémon, then a café, now a beautiful girl flirting with him...it's like he never left home! To a degree, anyway. At least his assistants can't badger him to get back to work, here....

(not saying he's lazy, but...a thorough appreciation for relaxation is always good!)

Leaning back again and smiling into the camera, Sycamore places an affectionate hand on Chespin's head.]

But if you want to meet my little friends in person, I'll have to insist on accompanying them. They're a little young to be wandering out on their own, you see.

[inveigle]

[Game aside, it's adorable the way all three of these Pokémon look so very pleased with themselves?? Hilda is weak to all things Cute; like, she really does want to meet them face-to-face just to coo over them, and pet them, and probably take fifty selfies with them, do not @ her. He is an excellent bonus.]

Of course! How gallant of you—and how lucky for me.

[But let her tilt her head to the side, humming thoughtfully as she glances off-camera.]

Have you visited the parks on the highest level? They're beautiful, and they have so much space for your Pokémon. [To run around, to play, to do whatever it is they do? She is Guessing.] I think they'd enjoy themselves... and when they're tired, they could rest while you tell me more about them. Over tea?

[That he would be footing the bill for! Naturally! It's why she summons her sweetest smile as she looks back into the camera.]

[sycamour]

[Please...take as many photos with them as you would like, Hilda....Sycamore will happily play Prismagram Boyfriend and help you hit those angles! While babbling about how cute everything is, of course.]

What a fabulous idea; I love it! So organized, ma chérie. It would be an absolute pleasure to meet up with you in person. My treat, of course, since it is my invitation!

[Let him buy you as many beverages as you would like, Hilda! What is the point of having all this Chroma if he can't spend it on making beautiful women smile?? There's no point. Absolutely no point at all!]

It sounds like you know your way around this city rather well. I hope you don't mind showing me the ropes.

[Feel free to read as much or as little into that comment as you desire....]

Fortunately, you'll find I'm a fast learner. We might end up learning from one another!

[inveigle]

[Complimenting her planning, agreeing to treat her right out the gate... whew. He just gets it—and she's thrilled, as evidenced by the way her expression brightens even further. Date: Happening. She should probably follow that up with some important questions, like when, but as she is She:]

Oh, I don't mind at all! And I'm sure we will, even if teaching a professor does sound intimidating... but I'll do my best. [Yes, she sure is winking into the camera again. My God.] Just promise you won't lecture me if I get something wrong.

[What is shame? Hilda doesn't know her.]