a is for apple (open job)

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For all their swagger, nobody was prepared when the Skiddo leapt out of the bushes, and it was Emmett who suffered the consequences. As the Golett was bowled over by the force of the attack, Ness had to scuttle aside to dodge his falling body and was just barely able to squirm out of the way. Swiveling around, Ness was about to ask Emmett if he was alright when the cracks in Emmett's chest startled him into silence. Even Emmett himself seemed too shocked to fully process what had happened, sitting up with a neutral expression and a quiet hiss.
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Satisfied that Emmett wasn't in any imminent danger at the moment, Ness turned back around to see Ikaros lunge at the Skiddo. Her swift movements brought about an even quicker response; Ikaros' beak struck her target and threw the Skiddo down with the strength of her motion. For the first time, Ness found himself truly grateful for the large bird's presence on the team. Though it would be irritating to have to share the reward later, the Skarmony was helpful when necessary, a fact that was further supported when it came to light that she had weakened their opponent enough that they could be scared into unconsciousness. With the threat neutralized, Ness decided that it would be best to check in with the team again.
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"We all doin' alright?" He inquired, scanning over Paint and Ikaros before settling his gaze on Emmett. "Or, everyone except you, pally. That was some knock you just took. You should eat an Oran Berry if you got one. Or if you're lookin' for one, I don't mind offering up my own, of course with a little quid pro quo, you know?" If he wasn't sorely aware that he lacked the ability to wink charmingly, Ness would have done so to enunciate the humor lacing his words. But, he supposed it was best not to, as he really was not joking about gaining something in exchange for his Oran Berry. Tit for tat, Ness would never leave any debt unsettled, and he certainly wasn't one to ever forget. If Emmett accepted, Ness would certainly be standing in his doorway a few weeks later, asking for reparations. And, if Emmett decided he would rather tough it out, well, it was no skin off Ness' back, and the entire group could continue on with the mission without any fanfare.
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gpmrLHyq1-100

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notes: gonna try again with this roll and hope nobody dies this time lmao

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402 words, 𝓈𝒾𝓁𝓋𝒶𝓁𝒾