**_~Claire and Groudon~_**

**_~Ayero Countryside, Road to Hiden~_**

As Axia went flying backwards, Groudon gave a loud grunt of annoyance that seemed to say _'Don't waste my time if you're going to lose so easily'_. Groudon moved through the earthen maze he created without much trouble, crushing the blades and causing them to crumble as he walked past them towards Claire. Claire moved quickly as well, meeting the large pokemon just outside of the little ring of blades. **"You did well."** She said to the pokemon, as he lowered his head towards her. She gave him a congratulatory rub on his chin, before taking a look at his claws with a sigh. She had to admit, that Haxorous and her trainer was a worthy opponent.

**"Hm. I see no reason as to why we can't help you."** She replied to him, as she climbed onto Groudons back as she began searching through various packs and pouches that were on his harness. Normally, she would have taken them off before a fight but she didn't have time to this time. **"Ah. Here we are,"** She said, pulling out a small sack full of berries. **"Here's a little snack for your hard work."** She said as she jumped off the ancient pokemon. **"You've earned it you big oaf. Just be careful with your claws for a bit. Those horns did more damage than I thought they would."** With that, she tossed a few berries into the air which Groudon happily caught and began munching on. With her own pokemon taken care of, she walked over to John, tossing him the sack of Sitrus berries in the process.

**"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, John. I am Lady Claire Terrane, head of House Terrane, Lady of the Vale plains and her mines and any ore, minerals, or other metals that come from the region."** She introduced herself with all the grace and calmness of an experienced noble. **"I must say, I am impressed by your Haxorous. Not many pokemon can easily move Groudon with a single attack."** She stated as she glanced over to where the Haxorous had fainted. **"I have to say though, you're own strategy was lacking - that battle could have been a lot easier for you had you kept your distance from Groudon and used a few more Dragon Dances before going in for a close range attack. Ranged attacks would have probably worked best, actually, had your Haxorous had any. Ah, wait, hold on."** She turned back to Groudon as he munched absentmindedly on what was left of the Sitrus berries. **"Fix the road while I talk with this knight, John."** Groudon gave an annoyed grunt in response, but did as he was told.

**"Anyways, back to your question. Yes, we are indeed headed to Hiden. We were summoned by the King along with various other powerful nobles in the region. No doubt concerning the rumors of War. I would be more than happy to help you and Haxorous there. It is my duty to take care of my people, after all since you serve a Baron under my banner."**