[i][sub]" It's... D-Desmond, miss."[/sub][/i] Desmond tried to explain, though Hara probably couldn't pick up on it still.

Wallace's expression never faltered, though he took note of the nervousness of the boy in the group. For a new trainer, he looked absolutely terrified! Most trainers were more confident like the Hara-gal, but he was practically quivering at the idea of having to battle. He was certain it'd be okay, however; As if he never got a learning experience, he'd never break out of that shell, now would he? Wallace was actually entertained by the amount of potential in this battle, not just performance: But for development of these children still finding their way in life.

[b]" It's always a pleasure to meet trainers starting out like yourselves! "[/b] Wallace spoke, passion in his voice. Though things seemed to be going a bit awry; The girl was polite, seeming to not want to disturb the boy much further as he was obviously distressed. Knowing it was for his own good, Wallace did what he did best; Pose fashionably in the middle of the group, gaining the attention of all those around him.

[b]" A first challenge should never be refused! "[/b] Wallace stated, pointing at Dareth with a smirk on his face. [b]" This is your chance to show one of the best what you can do, Dareth! "[/b]

[i][sub]" It's Desmond, sir... "[/sub][/i] Desmond attempted to explain, but his meek voice didn't allow him to do so.

[b]" So stand proud! Team with your partner, and face your first ever battle! It's your first step as a trainer, and a step towards becoming... A man! "[/b]

Desmond was sweating, unsure of what to do. He could say no, but maybe Wallace was right? Maybe it'd be good for him to experience a battle; Since Fluff seemed so raring to go. He wasn't sure if that aggression would come back to bite him if she didn't fight, so maybe it was just... Less risky to hide this time. He couldn't just stuff himself back in the lab anymore, he'd have to face things like this. Even if he didn't like it.

[i]" ........ Okay. "[/i] Desmond answered, feeling uneasy. His stomach was aching; Was that a good enough excuse to leave? Could he leave? He really didn't want to upset a respectable person like a Gym Leader, this was all so conflicting. He looked down at his Pokemon, noting it's eagerness. He wished he shared it's vigor and mentality somewhat, as it'd really help in this situation.

[b]" Excellent! "[/b] Wallace exclaimed, clapping his hands together. [b]" Now before we get this started, I noted before that there were only three of you eager to battle. We can't just have a three-way, that's uncouth and rowdy! A foursome is what we need! "[/b] Wallace clapped again, this time calling out a name; One that even Yui was unfamiliar with. [b]" Oh, Maaaaarkus?! "[/b]

[center][Hider=Suddenly, from the distance...][youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cunKMWkE1yI[/youtube]
[img]https://orig00.deviantart.net/de22/f/2014/001/3/1/dumb_boy_by_tucking_fypos-d70g6k5.png[/img][/Hider][/center]

A young blond man, not looking much older than the group at hand, rushed down from a small crowd and skidded to a halt right beside Wallace. He nearly lost his balance, but Wallace tilted him upright and kept him from falling on his face.

" You need me, Wallace?! " The blond questioned eagerly, glancing about at the trainers Wallace had surrounded himself with. 

[b]" My little friends, this is Markus; A breeder from Sootopolis, whose family are all great friends of mine! Yui, I do not believe the two of you need introductions, however. "[/b] 

" It's good to see Yui! Heh heh! " Markus joked, that same joke that annoyed Yui, probably. He never got tired of it. " You got that egg safely delivered to you, I see. I promise it'll be a powerful Pokemon once it hatches! "

Wallace brushed a hand in front of Markus, keeping him from getting too excited. [b]" There's always time for talk later. I require you to aide my friend Dareth in a double battle. "[/b]

[i]" D-Double Battle? "[/i] Desmond repeated, blinking.

[b]" Yes! Girls versus Boys! It's perfect, don't you think? "[/b] Wallace seemed satisfied with himself and his idea, beginning to march over to the center of the boat. [b]" Take a moment to associate with your partner, then come on! We've a battle to start! "[/b]

" I've never battled with another trainer at my side before! " Markus spoke, enthusiastic about the ordeal. " Wallace already said it, but I'm Markus! It's a pleasure to meet you Dareth; And you ladies, too! "

[i][sub]"It's. Desmond."[/sub][/i] Desmond muttered, slight spite. After a deep breath, Desmond spoke louder. [i]" I-It's Desmond. It's a pleasure to meet you too, Markus. "[/i] He offered the taller boy a smile, suppressing his momentary irritation.

Markus smiled back, grinning joyfully. " My bad, Desmundo! Let's work together and win this, yeah? " Markus turned, looking at the Girl Team, a sly look on his face. " That is, if you girls are ready! "