Seeing that Driffloon seemed comfortable now, Amelia kept a gentle grip on it as she followed the Flabébé into the woods, only stopping for a second to return Pumpkaboo to pick's pokeball. As she walked through the woods, she tried to stay as dry as possible. She had dropped her umbrella while fleeing that bully, so she had no protection against the rain that did make it through the trees. She would have to be careful to avoid catching a cold and head back to town ASAP. Shaking her head, she dismissed those thoughts and got moving, following the cries of her little fairy friends. She knew she wanted to be a Ghost-Type master but she wouldn't mind catching on of these little cuties.
After a few minutes of following her three new friends, they journeyed through the woods until they came across a clearing. In the center, she could see several trees but they were currently surrounded by a group of pokemon. Using her pokedex, it identified them as Snubbull, another Fairy-Type pokemon. Keeping what the pokedex had said in mind, she pulled Driffloon close and cautiously approached the trees, moving slowly so as to avoid possibly waking up and startling the pokemon as they ate. Hopefully they wouldn't attack her for approaching and they could settle thing peacefully .
Erika's heart swelled as she saw Gible's positive response, her own eyes matching the spark of the Gible's eyes. "We'll make a good team, I promise." Erika gave Gible another pat before pulling her new team member in an embrace. It was amazing how different of a perspective that Erika discovered by not battling to catch a new Pokemon. This felt all the more organic and wholesome and maybe that was the point Lesley was trying to illustrate, at least Erika thought so. Speaking of which...
"Yes! Everything is fine, Lesley. Thank you!" Erika turned to address the arrival with an easy smile, though she didn't get to her feet. "Oh!" Erika suddenly expressed turning to her Gible and patting him on the head. "I asked and this little Gible decided to come with me. Isn't that right, Gibs?" Erika asked her partner to which he nodded, looking assured and confident in his response. "Anyway, thank you, Lesley. This was actually unexpected but taking the time to convince Gibs to join without battling it was actually more... fulfilling. So thanks!" Erika nodded, giving Gibs one more pat before gently brushing him off her legs in order to get to her feet. "Well, I suppose it is time to continue on my journey because I've still got a ways until Gibs and I will challenge you, Lesley. You can count on that one." Erika gave the Gym Leader a friendly thumbs up...
After her business with Lesley was wrapped up, thanking her again of course, Erika made her way down the mountain, with Gibs right behind her, to return to where the ladder was. Assuming Joshua and Ewan had waited, Erika would introduce her newest member Gibs before returning him to a Pokeball. "Alright, sorry for the wait guys and thanks for waiting but let's get to Lakewatch."
Otherwise if Joshua and Ewan weren't there, she'd just return Gibs and try to navigate the through the Wet Caverns, backtracking to where she thought she remembered where the ladder trio passed them before taking the other, wetter route through the Cavern.
"L-led!" The ledyba cried out painfully as the attack hit.
Claire winced as Ritz was hit with the quick attack, sending the flying bug type spiraling out of momentary control and causing him to have to regain his balance. Thankfully Ralia managed to get off a confusion, but it wasn't any more effective than a normal attack thanks to Lucario's steel typing. As soon as the pokemon landed, it's movements made it clear which its next target was. Right, thinking on her feet was something she was good at, wasn't she?
"Ralia switch to a growl attack and do what you do best, girl! Focus on just lowering its attack and dodging for now!" Claire shouted. Thankfully, Ralia still had her clones with her. While Hector may have reasonably been able to tell which was fake and which wasn't, but even a tiny bit of distraction could help her immensely.
Ralia fired off a growl at Lucario just as the other pokemon had landed. However, instead of attempting to teleport away from such a fast pokemon instead the small pokemon decided to simply 'dance' with the Lucario, along with her clones. The clones circled Ralia, and quickly started moving. Not with extreme levels of speed, but for the rest duration of the fight they would make an effort not to stay in one place too long, trying their best to confuse Lucario.
"Ritz, keep it up! Keep your distance and keep using supersonic!" As soon as he recovered, he would switch to such a strategy.
As the battle started Growlithe Roar-ed at Eevee, but despite the sounds Eevee stood firm, Tail Whipping down Growlithe’s defenses, before heading in to Tackle. Growlithe used Bite in return, both moves hitting, but Eevee suffered considerably less damage than Growlithe. Actually, it was close on that Growlithe was taken down in one hit there. Sooo, onto using a Pokéball, then?
Growlithe was hit by the Pokéball, vanishing into the ball with a flash. The ball then proceeded to fall onto the ground.
It shook once! It shook twice! It shook thrice…!
Click
Erza captured Growlithe!
Gender: ♂ Type: Fire Personality: (Up to player.) Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.) Level: 3 Moves: Bite, Roar Ability: Flash Fire, raises power of Fire-type moves after being hit by one. Held Item: None.
Around 38% health at this moment.
New Pokémon caught! Erza earned 1000 P!
Would you like to give a nickname to Growlithe?
And to be nice, Pokémon Egg doesn’t take up a slot. It’s essentially a Wild Pokémon in the egg, it’s just that you’re probably going to store the being in a Pokéball after birth, is the assumption.
This aside. He had now caught his Growlithe. Now, what would he do? He’s on Route 1, by the forest, free to do what he wants.
Route 1
Route 1 is a long, flat and grassy route where most trainers get their first taste of the world. From Pureplain you can see the hills of Highhill in the distance, from Highhill the scrapers of Pureplain looms in the distance, the start of the Silent Forest surrounding the Silent Shrine on the side. There is a larger road, a main road used for travelling in and out of Pureplain City, there are plenty of more mature travellers taking that road to get from point A to point B. But, young Pokémon Trainers usually much rather use the smaller path going out into the grassland. This is some remnants of the plain which Pureplain City was named after, although most of that plain is now swallowed up by buildings of people living around here. Small roads branch out, leading to different places where some individuals have made their houses.
There are many safe roads, yet take one step out of it and you’re immediately in tall grass, where you can already see many first-time Pokémon Trainers are challenging their first Pokémon. One could expect Pokémon Trainers to be searching for Pokémon either in the tall grass or the forest on the side, and also battling one another as they can. From the looks of it, there are plenty of young trainers sporting freshly caught Pidgeys and Rattatas. As one approaches Highhill Town, the forest becomes more plentiful, as beyond the town lies a forest.
Through the route also runs an indent, a drain surrounded by walls, seemingly made for the water to gather up inside it. It’s currently dry, whatever cause of that might be. Some trainers appear to be having fun battling inside it, and they’re running around challenging one another inside it. But, the drain also raised interesting questions about what kind of Pokémon or things one might find should one explore it further.
1. Find Pokémon. There’s searching in the tall grass, and there’s the forest in the left, then there’s the drain… 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Seek trainers. There should be some here and there. Note, some may challenge you, regardless. 4. Talk. There’s plenty of young trainers around. There are also houses and travellers. Maybe seek answers to any burning questions you have. 5. Move along. Move along normally, letting any events that may come happen naturally. 6. Hurry along. Intentionally avoid confrontations and try to get safely to the next destination. 7. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 8. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 9. Area Specific: Descend. There’s a drain. The kids are having a little tournament in it, challenging themselves to fight in a tight area. Perhaps you’d like to try becoming king of the drain? Or maybe you’d just like to explore it.
Connected areas: Pureplain City. A bit south. Highhill Town. A bit north-north-east.
Amelia approached, Drifloon in hand, while the Flabébés were watching from where they had guided her in. Upon noticing her, because some of those just lazing about would, some of the Snubbulls spun to get up on their feet and face her, and even fewer barking just a little just in case she was a threat.
‘Snubb!’ ‘Snubbull!’
That was the vocal minority of two, though. The majority of the Snubbulls on guard were pulling back in fright of whatever was approaching, just looked on curiously, or didn’t really care at all. Still, even the barking ones were pulling back in fright, leaving enough room for her to reach at least one Oran Berry tree. So she could probably retrieve the berries she wanted if that was the only business here she had. She could harvest 11 Oran Berries. The Flabébés were still watching, otherwise.
Northern Silent Forest
Before you lies a forest, dark to the sight but that is mostly due to the clouds gathered overhead. Unlike on Route 3, however, the thickness of the trees prevent actually seeing above the trees. The place has a lonely feeling, made only worse by the constant downpour which is the rain around Rainrock City, yet the place is filled with things one would not expect. There are lanterns shining blue light in the trees, there are arcs around the forest for unknown reasons that sometimes look like they’re glowing themselves. There were definitely mystifying powers at work here, these wooden arcs standing as if guiding the way somewhere, yet they lead nowhere, and are strewn around seemingly randomly.
True to its name, other than the rain barely any sounds come from within the forest. And yet, among the trees, small creatures dwell. Despite the lonely feeling, it is hard to look in a direction and not seemingly see a sign of movement. On the ground, smaller grass-type creatures were invariably found, while larger creatures that enjoy the rain could also be expected. But most of all, the air was populated by small, floating flowers, and the tiny denizens on top of them… This place was fairly well known for the fairies that inhabited it. If you’re looking for a place to name the Fairy Forest of Isson… This is a good candidate.
1. Find Pokémon. Specify if you’re looking for a specific kind of Pokémon in the forest. 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Move along. Move along normally, letting any events that may come happen naturally. 4. Hurry along. Intentionally avoid confrontations and try to get safely to the next destination. 5. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 6. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 7. Area Specific: Follow the Arcs. They seem to be standing randomly, but if you follow them anyways…? 8. Current Events: Flabébé and Snubbulls. Or, of course, if you have more business here.
Connected areas: Route 3. To the east. Route 11. If you head directly north for a while. Silent Shrine. Go south, you should be able to find the road there.
‘Heh! Seems like it went well!’ Lesley commented, smiling down on Erika after having heard that it apparently went well. She nodded at the gratitude the girl displayed to her, and then smirked at the statement that Erika would one day be back to challenge her. ‘Yepp! I’ll be counting on it! Good continued luck on your journey!’ She waved in reply, before the Druddigon and her took off with a couple of strong waves, taking the Gym Leader and the dragon both over the mountain.
Erika was then fine to head back. There she’d find Joshua occupied with watching Pikachu playing with a couple Axews, jumping over one another and things.
‘Oh, you’re back! Oooh, you got yourself a little dragon! Nice!’ Joshua smiled and looked back to her, admiring Gibs for a bit. ‘Ewan went back into the cave, but he shouldn’t have gone too far.’ He then called for his Pikachu, who attentively waved his ears a bit before dashing back to Joshua to climb up on his shoulder, waving a little to Erika as they could descend. Once again, she’d find herself in the Wet Caverns.
Wet Caverns
Above is an accurate representation of the average traveller trying to go through Wet Caverns, assuming the bats are Zubats
The Wet Caverns, known so for the sheer amount of water drenching the contents. It’s a large series of tunnels with no real large open rooms, dividing itself up into a fairly simple maze going from one side to the other. The water inside the tunnels thankfully lit up the contents due to some shining mineral in the liquid, giving rise to a mildly lit set of tunnels. Many people prefer not to travel through the Wet Caverns due to them being long and easy to get lost in, in addition to the large amounts of hostile Pokémon which might attack at any time. Yet, here you are…
Still. There are those who travel through it on a regular basis. Those who have learned the trick finds it a fairly easy shortcut between Lakewatch Town and Pureplain City. For enthusiasts there are always the options of delving deeper into the caverns, fishing or surfing to find out what kind of Pokémon might inhabit the depths and the shallow rivers that flow along the underground corridors. It is known to be fairly diverse when it comes to the Pokémon inhabiting it, giving trainers both water- and cave Pokémon to pick from when they want to catch something.
Now specifically at that lake, now with a ladder going up to the Dragon Roost. Down there back in the cave they’d actually run into Ewan, who came walking back to the ladder with a satisfied expression.
‘Did you find what you were looking for?’ Joshua smiled to his friend.
‘Somewhat. I caught a Psyduck.’ Ewan replied, holding up a Pokéball for a moment, before looking to Erika. ‘Did you get a dragon?’ He asked. Assumingly Erika acknowledged somehow and Ewan nodded and they’d be on their way.
Now, there was the chance that any of that would impact the current decisions or so, but otherwise, they could not be satisfied with their trip and head on out.
If they headed on, following the map to get to the other side, they’d follow a piece of river which they had to wade through. Then, they’d get to another split.
The majority of the river continued to the left, where it was just a turn of the water flowing down, but if they listened well enough, it sounded like the current got more violent down that direction. What could await there?
Straight ahead was a basically straight line on solid ground, allowing them to get out of the water, though there was yellow light in the end of it. They couldn’t see from here, but the light looked artificial.
Then to the right, there was a fairly nice pathway where there was dry land for walking on to the left side of the gentle stream of water. That particular tunnel grew wider, leading who knows where when it curved out of sight.
‘The exit’s to the right. This is the last split.’ Ewan could tell them. Now, would they head there?
Lucario quickly took charge and flew forth at Ralia… and missed. He went straight through one of her copies, swinging right by behind her, and she got off her Growl. Lucario most certainly heard it, and his attack was reduced.
However, behind her, Lucario had recovered and turned around to attack again. Lucario was quick enough with coming up to the next of the same attack that there wasn’t time to focus on a new move, and this one hit. Ralia’d feel Lucario rushing into her and sending her flying for a bit, taking a considerable amount more damage despite the lowered attack, the damage getting really dangerous. Lucario frowned, seeming quite intent on finishing the job…
Then Ritz hit with his Supersonic.
‘Lu…!?’ Lucario blinked as it suddenly had to take a step aside to maintain balance, becoming confused. With balance somewhat influenced, it turned and looked with anger at Ritz, as well as it could, and switched target once again. Seemed it wasn’t quite used to fighting multiple enemies at once.
‘Something wrong, Lucario? Seeing double? Afraid you’ll miss?’ Hector sounded like he was taunting his own Pokémon, giving a little laugh. ‘C’mon. You know what to do.’ Hector grinned. At this command…
‘…’ Lucario closed his eyes and focused, and what seemed like a flame lit in his eyes… a blue flame of Aura, guiding his way for him. He was using Foresight, to ensure the next attack would hit. Lucario opened his eyes again, making ready to move, despite the overturned contents of his head making it hard for him to focus.
This moment of focus, however, did give Ritz and Ralia a moment to recover and prepare for the next attack, perhaps do something on their own.
Well that had been a possibility. Of course now that it had happened... Dawkin hadn't taken more than a moment to finalize his next action, returing Wooper to her pokeball and immediately releasing Atlas in the path of the Bagon as it tried to get closer to Nincada, "Atlas headbutt Bagon!" Atlas at this point was somewhat used to being sent out and immediately given orders so simply charge directly ahead. Dawkin had no intention of leaving Martin out to dry and furthermore no intention of losing, he was confident whatever order Martin gave Nincada next it would suffice to help them win so he left it at that.
Atlas Gender: Male Type: Steel/Rock Species: Aron Level: 7 Personality: A stubborn and sometimes disagreeable little fellow, he likes eating. A lot. He's smarter than he looks and can be quite devious in order to get what he wants. Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: Fill in as we go. Probably Moves: Tackle, Harden, Mudslap, Headbutt Ability: Sturdy. Allows the pokemon to survive an attack that would otherwise knock it out. Held Item:
Gender: Female Type: Water/Ground Personality: Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: Level: 6 Moves: Water Gun, Tail Whip, Mud Sport Ability: Water Absorb, will regain health upon being hit with a water-type move. Held Item: None.
Type:Water Moves: Peck, Tail Whip, Water Sport, Supersonic Ability: Water Veil. Prevents burns Level: 5 Held Item: None Status: 50% health.
2555 P Antidote X1 Pokeball X4 Great Ball Repel X2 Potion X2 Super potions X3 Awakening Paralyze Heal Escape Rope
Nincada moved with a speed faster than Martin expected. He was going to be impressed, if he wasn't trying to think ahead. With Flababe occupied, it was a matter of time until Bagon was worn down by Wooper. That was when the plan changed. Bagon and Flabebe were both concentrated on him now. This was more than he wanted for aggro. They left Wooper all alone in the water. Nincada may be fast, but they were going to team up on him. If he dodged the ember, Fairy wind got a free shot. If he did it the other way, that would be worse. Nincada can handle more than a few hits, but this was asking too much. Nincada didn't have range or the type advantage, just defense.
He moved his free hand back to the Pokeballs on him. If he needed to swap, this was looking like a good time. It was a two Pokemon each fight, so he only had one back up. Sprout couldn't be used with Bagon, and Flabebe would crush Goldeen. Which one could give him that edge. He was reaching for Goldeen, being a pure water type and the advantage of using the water on the side. Sprout could use Leech Seed and use it to sustain the fight through. Bagon would still be a problem. He did have the range, but not a type advantage. None of his picks had a type advantage, a difficult situation. Sprout was a better choice for this, if Wooper could provide some cover. All he had to do was get Nincada into a better spot to swap out, even if it meant taking another hit in the process.
His thoughts were broken when Dawkin burst out with his own strategy. He swapped Wooper out with Atlus and was coming to back him up. Martin shook his head, finally a break. "Nincada, avoid the Ember and use Leech life on Bagon. What's a bit more damage from Fairy Wind at this point?" He couldn't stop Flabebe right now, so he had to take out Bagon. A bit of healing while dealing damage. A dangerous move, but the risk was worth the reward.
Nincada looked at the charging dragon and gave another nod. He ran towards Bagon, jumping sideways at the last second to dodge the attack , already opening his mouth up for a bite from his opponent. He was ready to take the hit from above, the noisy Pokemon above him. If Nincada hit Bagon while he was distracted, the healing will offset the pain of Fairy Wind. His chance was hinging on getting rid of Bagon first, and hoping the next Pokemon weren't even better at ruining his plan. He needed to go back to training after this. No, heal up first, then train.
So, Dawkin returned Wooper to her Pokéball, and then sent out Atlas straight in Bagon’s path… Which sure, but Bagon reacted on pure instinct and spewed out its Ember at the target straight in front of it, which would have been Nincada (who had been ready to dodge), but the fireball instead hit Atlas. Now, the steel on the outside became unbearably hot… but Atlas rock-body under could handle the heat relatively well, so it became just basic effectiveness. Still, two more of those could become dangerous. Atlas then proceeded to ram Bagon with the hot steel plate in a Headbutt.
On the side, Nincada did dodge the potential of being hit by the Ember, but was instead hit by Fairy Wind from the flanking fairy. The strike was heavy, for some wind, due to Flabébé’s considerable special firepower, the wind taking power from him, but Nincada was also able to run in and pierce the Bagon in the side with Leech Life, sucking back a bit of what he lost.
‘BAGO-!!’ The dragon-Pokémon shouted out, hit by two moves from the front, stumbling back a bit from the impact. Earlier, its defense had been lowered, so it really hurt. Bagon glared back at the two opponents. It wouldn’t be able to beat them both like this.
Cathia frowned seeing this, and held out a Pokéball, taking a clue from Dawkin’s book and returned Bagon, looking on intently as she did. She directed her hand to a Pokéball, and then threw it forward, but not quite so far it came to her opponents. And out appeared… a blue ball with ears and limbs, a blue belly and a blue ball attached to a thin, black tail.
Pokédex Entry #183 – Marill, the Aqua Mouse Pokémon. The tail contains oils lighter than water, ensuring it drifts to the surface even after having dived for food, and the tail can stretch to become very long. It fishes for food at the edge of fast-moving streams. It’s body is water-repellant and it’s dry even when playing in water.
‘Marill, Water Gun the Aron. Flabébé, keep it from dodging with Vine Whip.’ Cathia formulated a new plan, pointing forward.
‘Marill!’ The blue Pokémon jumped forward a bit, with a determined expression, preparing to fire.
‘Flaaaaaa~!’ Flabébé flew to bind, releasing vines from its body to bind Aron.
But, yeah. Cathia had just retrieved her Pokémon. That was a round. Dawkin and Martin could make up a new plan if they wanted to, they had time to make moves or so first, and had the advantage of knowing Cathia’s plan. So, what now?
Type:Water Moves: Peck, Tail Whip, Water Sport, Supersonic Ability: Water Veil. Prevents burns Level: 5 Held Item: None Status: 50% health.
2555 P Antidote X1 Pokeball X4 Great Ball Repel X2 Potion X2 Super potions X3 Awakening Paralyze Heal Escape Rope
Nincada pulled off the plan as expected. He got the hit in, and healed off some of the damage from Fairy Wind. Things were looking good, then Cathia exchanged Bagon for a new Pokemon. Martin already was pulling out his Pokedex to scan it. A Water and Fairy type. Vine Whip and Water Gun were incoming on Aron, time to come up with a new plan. "Nincada, take the Vine Whip attack for Aron, then charge Marill with a Scratch attack." He can't afford to take all of the attacks, but splitting the damage would be a good idea, as Nincada can handle Vine Whip a lot better than Aron. If this kept up, he might have to consider using a potion. He bought a few of them, and this was starting to look like one of those situations.
Nincada was getting used to the strategy by now, rushing between Flabebe and Aron, making sure to stop the hit with himself. As soon as it hit him, he would run as fast as he could to attack Marill with his claws. Stop and go with this fight for Martin. They were in a disadvantage in almost every way. Tank a hit, deal a hit. With two tough Pokemon, they just had to hope the enemy couldn't handle their attacks better than them.
Lucian followed houndour along to the location of the pokemon his companion had caught the scent of. When he arrived by the slowpokes, his face fell. The trainer looked at the slowpokes, then to houndour, then to the slowpokes again "No." He said shortly before turning back the way they came, with houndour and ducklett following close behind. Houndour was looking back almost apologetically at the slowpokes.
When the group reached the crossroads again he moved towards the exit and muttered under his breath to himself "Maybe we can actually get out the cave this time and not have to backtrack to save a ducklett.."
Gender: ♂ Type:Normal Level: 6 Moves: Tackle, Growl, Tail whip, Sand-attack, Helping Hand Ability: Adaptability Held Item: None. Status:100%
Gender: ♂ Type: Normal Level: 5 Moves: Leer, Tackle, Odor Sleuth Ability: Pickup. May randomly end up holding items. Held Item: None. Status:34%
Gender: ♀ Type: Normal/Flying Level: 5 Moves: Tackle, Sand-attack Ability: Tangled Feet. Greatly raises ability to evade if confused. Held Item: None. Status:21%
Gender: ♂ Type: Normal Level: 5 Moves: Scratch, Growl Ability: Technician. The power of low-powered moves are boosted. Held Item: Quick Claw Status:100%
Gender: ♀ Type: Ghost Level: 5 Moves: Leer, Night Shade, Pain Split Ability: Levitate. Pokémon is able to avoid ground-based attacks. Held Item: None. Status:100%
Gender: ♂ Type: Fire Level: 3 Moves: Bite, Roar Ability: Flash Fire, raises power of Fire-type moves after being hit by one. Held Item: None. Status:84%
So, everything seemed to work grandly in Erza's favor in this battle. Growlithe wasn't particularly high leveled and Eevee had an easy time aiding Erza in catching it, it wouldn't be too far fetched to use the word... effortlessly, even. But! That meant Erza had quite some work to do. The boy leaned down, patting his Eevee's head with a smile as he muttered a thank you to the starter pokémon before returning it to its pokéball. Then, he picked up the newly used pokéball with Growlithe in it, sending the pokémon out.
And out it came, Erza reached for his bag and picked up a vial with a green liquid content inside and a sprayer as well. The boy beckoned the pokémon closer, but it seemed a little unwilling. Erza slowly moved closer and sprayed the potion on the Growlithe, making it healthy again. The pokémon, now feeling much better, seemed more willing towards Erza - even if very slightly so. The boy offered a smile and an open hand to the pokémon as he spoke:
"Well, sorry about that, Growlithe... But we're friends now, so, we might as well get used to each other, right?" Ahh, the bonding of a trainer and his pokémon. The Growlithe moved closer to Erza, sitting down as it gave a lick on the boy's palm. Perhaps that was a sign of acceptance, aye? Well, Erza was about to find out, for there was many wild pokémon out here and his lovely Growlithe would take them all down!
Train Growlithe. Let's see if Growlithe becomes tougher under Erza's experienced guidance!
They'd forced Bagon to retreat, out of taking damage not just inconvenience which put them ahead, however momentarily. Dawkin formulated a plan, then revised it as Martin decided to take the Vine Whip for Atlas. It made his choices rather simple actually. "Atlas, charge forward and Headbutt Marill so that Nincada can follow-up." If they both simply charged Marill retreating backwards would be effective, therefore it made more sense to come at the Marill from different angles to hem it in. With the two of them attacking one of Cathia's, though should be able to space the damage and overcome. Atlas would of course be taking a water gun to the face. Hopefully it would be worth it to get close. Neither Nincada or Atlas were strong to water attacks, so if they couldn't take down Marill quickly Dawkin would be forced to bring Wooper back out to absorb the hits. Perhaps something that he should've done in the first place but... little late for that.
Atlas Gender: Male Type: Steel/Rock Species: Aron Level: 7 Personality: A stubborn and sometimes disagreeable little fellow, he likes eating. A lot. He's smarter than he looks and can be quite devious in order to get what he wants. Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: Fill in as we go. Probably Moves: Tackle, Harden, Mudslap, Headbutt Ability: Sturdy. Allows the pokemon to survive an attack that would otherwise knock it out. Held Item:
Gender: Female Type: Water/Ground Personality: Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: Level: 6 Moves: Water Gun, Tail Whip, Mud Sport Ability: Water Absorb, will regain health upon being hit with a water-type move. Held Item: None.
Luckily for Amelia, she wasn't attacked by the local Snubbull and was able to approach the tree and harvest it without too much effort. She picked all she could but left five the berries on the ground for the Snubbulls to have as thanks for not attacking her before returning to where the Flabébés waited for her. She carefully put the remaining berries in her bag, keeping one out and calling out Pumpkaboo. "Here, eat up. It'll help you feel better until we can make it to a pokemon center." She said, handing him the Oran Berry she had kept out.
"Pump!" Her partner replied before eating the berry out of her hand. Her other hand still held onto Driffloon, who she planned on addressing shortly. Once Pumpkaboo finished the berry, she returned him to his pokeball before turning to the Flabébés. "Thank you for your help. I'm going to explore a bit more. If you want to follow me you can but please do what you want."
With that she set off again. She was starting to get a little soaked from the rain but she didn't let that bother her as she walked. She decided to follow the arcs that littered the forest to see if she could find where they led. As she walked, she gently held onto Driffloon and wouldn't address it for several minutes. "So, I have something I've been meaning to ask you Driffloon." She said to the Balloon-Pokémon. She dug out an empty pokeball and held it up to it as they walked. "Would you be willing to join me on my journey? I was going to ask you that before that bully interrupted us."
"Rrrral!" Ralia went stumbling to the ground, unable to stay on her feet from the impact, not being quick enough to avoid the blow. The psychic type gave a cry of pain and surprise as it was knocked to the ground, unable to move as Lucario moved in for a second attack ready to finish the job.
"LLLED!" Ritz managed to get off another supersonic just in time, successfully confusing Lucario and preventing him from finishing the job.
"Atta boy Ritz!" Claire shouted. Good, he had brought her a few seconds as Ralia struggled back to her feet, looking more than a little unsteady. She really needed to make sure Ralia survived. The psychic attack was going to be the greatest asset in a fight here. It seemed though, luck was a fickle mistress as always. Foresight? Aura? She knew vaguely of the concept...but while he was concentrating this was the perfect time to try something. It'd be risky, but she couldn't pass up the opportunity.
Ritz' attack wasn't the best, and no matter of clones would help Ralia here and she didn't have many options here...but...they had to try.
"Ritz, slam him with a tackle - As many as you can, boy! Don't let up, and keep it distracted! Ralia, give it everything you have girl! We need to finish off that Lucario now!" Ritz would move first, giving a small uncertain cry as it sped towards Lucario. It was already hurting a bit from the previous attack landed on it, and it was at least showing slightly. Tackling a steel type wasn't going to do much damage at all, but hopefully by being hit with another Confusion before would at least have damaged the Lucario somewhat.
Ralia would immediately follow it up by pouring as much energy as she could into a confusion attack, and slamming it into Lucario.
Deciding to head on, Lucian follows the way right, and has to fend off a few more Zubats to remind of the fact he’s still in a Zubat-infested cavern. He then headed down the tunnel alongside the river, one side dry land the other wet cavern. This proceeded past a Geodude brawl, until finally, he could see the light at the end of the tunnel… right on the other side of a Pokémon battle. It was Dawkin and Martin versus one of the trainers Jacques had brought into their first encounter, Cathia. They were using the Aron and Nincada, as they had begun their journey with. Cathia was also using her first Pokémon, Flabébé, alongside a Marill.
Pokédex Entry #669 – Flabébé, the Single Bloom Pokémon. At the beginning of its life, this fairy picks a flower that then becomes a part of its body. It can draw out and control the hidden power of flowers, whatever that means. When it floats in the wind, any troubles in its heart is said to wane.
Pokédex Entry #183 – Marill, the Aqua Mouse Pokémon. The tail contains oils lighter than water, ensuring it drifts to the surface even after having dived for food, and the tail can stretch to become very long. It fishes for food at the edge of fast-moving streams. It’s body is water-repellant and it’s dry even when playing in water.
… Regardless. He had Ducklett who was following him, and probably taking cover behind him as he recognized the people fighting before them. Anyways, Lucian probably didn’t intend on stopping for them, so it was just to head on and out. Cathia probably threw a grudging glance, she had intended on not letting people pass without battle, but there was little she could do when she was already in one.
Anyways, moving past them, out into the sunlight once more. The brighter light is momentarily blinding, before he could finally see what lay ahead of him. There was a small bridge, leading over a river, the river being small parts of the Dragon Lake pouring down back into the ocean. The river from the Wet Caverns also fell down in a small waterfall, joining said river. On the other side was a hill, leading down via a dirty road down to a collection of buildings. Beyond the buildings, was plains, a tall icy mountain, and more forest. Regardless, for now… he could head down to the buildings. There…
Lakewatch Town
As one looks upon Lakewatch, it is clear it was once built by the side of the water. Yet, over time, Dragon Lake has actually increased in volume, the water-level rising and swallowing the town. Then the natural conclusion would be to move the town back, follow the water-level, and rebuild at the new shore, right? That, does not appear to have been the thought that went through the minds of the designers of this Town, which is essentially placed out in the water on top of older buildings, the streets of the town flooded in water and to get around one has to make use of their many canoes or get on the back of a Pokémon.
The town of Lakewatch rises fairly high for its size, and vegetation grows pretty freely around the buildings. Most buildings and streets have white floating cobblestone to walk on either side of the streets, with a river of water flowing in the middle. People here are highly accustomed to this, and the streets are constantly bustling with people heading back and forth, as well as people actually gliding down from the higher buildings from the roofs above using strange little paragliders. It appears people live in the higher floors, while business takes place on ground/water-level. There are canoes basically everywhere that anyone’s free to borrow, townspeople commonly jumping down on a canoe, using the force of the jump to drift it to the other side and then simply jump off.
Now, anyone could hear from the name that Lakewatch Town is the town that basically rules the Dragon Lake. The Lakewatchers are a group of people that regularly patrol the waters, and become friends with the dragons that live there. Tours by the Lakewatchers are the primary tourist attraction of the place, along with the fish that is procured from the same lake, and guides are trained to show the way in any surrounding areas. Their boats are also those who trade with the western side through Highhill, keeping the place alive and busy. Plus, there’s always the rumors of treasure or otherwise hiding deep in Flooded Lakewatch, and Descent Tower looms in the middle of town for those hoping to explore… but who really knows? It’s a nice and different place, definitely.
So, with that, Lucian arrived into this new place, and there are people who just automatically wave at him and congratulate for breaching the Wet Caverns before going about their business, and there are plenty of canoes or people on Pokémon crossing the rivers… a favorite appears to be crossing on a Quagsire, for some reason. There are plenty of them. Also, their pre-evolution Wooper was also hanging around a bit of everywhere.
Pokédex Entry #194 – Wooper, the Water Fish Pokémon. It lives in cold water, sleeping on the bottom and seeking food by the shore when it's cold. When walking above water, wild Woopers cover their bodies with a slimy, poisonous film that keeps them from dehydrating. It's slightly dull-witted.
Pokédex Entry #195 – Quagsire, the Water Fish Pokémon. A very easy-going Pokémon, they swim about and don’t even mind if they bump their heads into things. When hunting, it simply opens its mouth and moves no muscles, waiting for prey to blunder in. When not moving, it expands very little energy and does not need food for a long time.
Anyways. What would Lucian do, now?
Note, one basically has to cross water to get through this town. It’s not going to be used to slow anyone down, but to be considered when writing a post about crossing it.
1. Find Pokémon. There’s plenty of water here. Could be any number of Water Pokémon in the different rivers through town. 2. Talk. In cities, there are considerably more people one can talk to. Talking can give you info on local rumors and such. 3. Exit. Exit the town to any of the connected areas. 4. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 5. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 6. Notable Buildings. Visit any of the facilities of the city! 6.1. Pokémon Center. Heal all your Pokémon. 6.2. PokéMart. Go to a store and buy things. 6.3. Pokémon Gym. ??? 6.4. Lakewatcher Base. From where Lakewatchers embark to patrol Dragon Lake. 6.5. Lakewatch Docks. For getting tours of Dragon Lake, just taking a ferry or fishing! 6.6. Explorer’s Guide Service. With all these strange places around, Lakewatch offers guides to the surrounding areas! 6.7. Descent Tower. A tower in the middle of town, with stairs down to Flooded Lakewatch. Come prepared for the underwater. 6.8. Back Alleys. … What? Lakewatch has a darker section? What are you talking about?
Connected areas: Wet Caverns. Water-filled caverns that are located to the east. There’s a small hill to climb to get to the entrance. Route 5. The main exit of Lakewatch, leading to a grassy incline connecting mountains, forests and plains. Route 14. The waters of Dragon Lake are also known as Route 14. It connects Lakewatch Town, Highhill Town and Stillwood Village.
And so, Erza set out to train his new Growlithe. And train they did, against more Rattatas and Pidgeys. As a slightly more naturally gifted Pokémon, Growlithe was able to handle them reasonably easily, taking only somewhat damage back. It could however be noticed that it helped that it seemed that the wild Pokémon of Route 1 seemed naturally frightened of Growlithe, for some reason, making them hesitate when committing to striking back. Being a Growlithe on Route 1 apparently came with a certain amount of status. He’d be able to get somewhere relatively quickly.
Growlithe grew to Level 5!
Also, hm? While training there was something on the ground here, in very familiar colors, seemingly belonging to nobody.
Erza found a Pokéball!
Hm, oh, well. Random Pokéballs aside, Erza was free to do as he wanted again. Continue training? Moving on somewhere? Doing anything else?
Route 1
Route 1 is a long, flat and grassy route where most trainers get their first taste of the world. From Pureplain you can see the hills of Highhill in the distance, from Highhill the scrapers of Pureplain looms in the distance, the start of the Silent Forest surrounding the Silent Shrine on the side. There is a larger road, a main road used for travelling in and out of Pureplain City, there are plenty of more mature travellers taking that road to get from point A to point B. But, young Pokémon Trainers usually much rather use the smaller path going out into the grassland. This is some remnants of the plain which Pureplain City was named after, although most of that plain is now swallowed up by buildings of people living around here. Small roads branch out, leading to different places where some individuals have made their houses.
There are many safe roads, yet take one step out of it and you’re immediately in tall grass, where you can already see many first-time Pokémon Trainers are challenging their first Pokémon. One could expect Pokémon Trainers to be searching for Pokémon either in the tall grass or the forest on the side, and also battling one another as they can. From the looks of it, there are plenty of young trainers sporting freshly caught Pidgeys and Rattatas. As one approaches Highhill Town, the forest becomes more plentiful, as beyond the town lies a forest.
Through the route also runs an indent, a drain surrounded by walls, seemingly made for the water to gather up inside it. It’s currently dry, whatever cause of that might be. Some trainers appear to be having fun battling inside it, and they’re running around challenging one another inside it. But, the drain also raised interesting questions about what kind of Pokémon or things one might find should one explore it further.
1. Find Pokémon. There’s searching in the tall grass, and there’s the forest in the left, then there’s the drain… 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Seek trainers. There should be some here and there. Note, some may challenge you, regardless. 4. Talk. There’s plenty of young trainers around. There are also houses and travellers. Maybe seek answers to any burning questions you have. 5. Move along. Move along normally, letting any events that may come happen naturally. 6. Hurry along. Intentionally avoid confrontations and try to get safely to the next destination. 7. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 8. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 9. Area Specific: Descend. There’s a drain. The kids are having a little tournament in it, challenging themselves to fight in a tight area. Perhaps you’d like to try becoming king of the drain? Or maybe you’d just like to explore it.
Connected areas: Pureplain City. A bit south. Highhill Town. A bit north-north-east.
Nincada successfully intercepted the Vine Whip attack, Flabébé looking down at the bug that just basically absorbed the supposed damage of the weak Vine Whip with excellent defense, before turning to attack Marill. Meanwhile, Atlas had already charged forth at Marill, who…
‘Marill!’ Spewed a Water Gun straight into Atlas’ face. The water penetrated the steel defense, soaking and damaging the rock body beneath, dealing a Super-Effective amount of damage, and Atlas would feel the energy taken from him during the attack. In fact, he probably owed it to Marill’s terrible Special Attack that he was still charging forward, but this was on his last legs after the damage combined with Bagon’s Ember. Any more damage would be it. But, the fact was that he was still charging, and Marill blinked in alarm, unable to dodge the impact.
The blue ball was knocked back, flying a bit back from Aron’s impact and rolling a bit. Nincada came after, meaning he’d have to catch up to Marill being rolled away, but the moment Marill recovered it was immediately surprised by a sudden Scratch attack, making it roll one lap more backwards. It blinked in panic at the close-by bug. It had taken a serious damage from the two, but wasn’t out yet.
‘Marill, defend yourself, Bubble! Flabébé, Fairy Wind on Aron, finish it!’ Cathia commanded, pointing forward with a frown, the excitement of the battle getting to her.
‘Marill!’ The Pokémon shouted it’s own name, and blew out bubbles. Unlike Water Gun, Bubble was a widespread move, designed to hit multiple Pokémon. It was currently used to make a wall of bubbles to ensure Nincada or Atlas would take damage if they approached to attack Marill, and it was making sure to cover the whole front and out to the sides… but it would be far less damage than a straight-on Water Gun. The bubbles were moving slowly away from Marill's body, probably would hit Nincada if he stayed put, but it was also going to take a while before they had dispersed enough for charging through with no damage, especially when it'd be super-effective.
‘Flaaaaaa~!’ Meanwhile, Flabébé soared in from behind Aron, intending on shooting out it’s wind of power at him, Cathia clearly hoping that the disadvantage of type would be overcome by Flabébé’s natural Special affinity and be enough to finish it.
When the berries were offered to the Snubbulls, she received a bunch of nervous glances. But, they went forth and collected the berries, giving her a few happy looks. A couple of them wanted to approach her and try to be friendly, but well, Amelia had places to go, and they were nervous so that might have been after she turned around. Sooo, moving on.
The Flabébés, when addressed, looked curiously at her and then at one another, before they decided with happy little calls. ‘Flabé!’ ‘Bébé!’ ‘Bébébé!’ ”As if we have anything more interesting to do~!” So, the three differently colored followed her curiously, mostly because they were curious fairies and she was currently the most interesting thing in the forest right now.
She’d notice a curious effect when she walked through the forest. Some of the arcs were glowing, as said, but when she moved through one… the glowing disappeared, and a different arc further away lit up. While there were arcs standing about fairly randomly, by following these glowing arcs they painted a definite path through the forest, and the Flabébés were chattering in pleased voices amongst themselves as they were on the way.
So, somewhere on the way Amelia turned to ask Drifloon this question.
‘Flooooon…?’ The Drifloon looked at her curiously at the question, then looked out across the forest, tiny black eyes looking as if considering something.
… Amelia suddenly felt something very odd. It felt like when she took her next step the air changed dramatically, turning from the humid rainy forest air to an unknown thickness, a dry air that was notably colder. It felt as if something enveloped her, like her next step had taken her somewhere different, almost like...
‘… Drifloon!’ Drifloon swelled and turned to call out to her, looking immensely happy all of a sudden, and the tense air immediately vanished, returning right back to the normal rainy forest air that was ever present in Northern Silent Forest. … So, um. There was no telling what exactly happened there, but Drifloon seemed more than happy to join her now. So, yay.
Amelia obtained Drifloon!
Gender: ♀ Type: Ghost/Flying Personality: (Up to player.) Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.) Level: 6 Moves: Constrict, Minimize, Astonish Ability: Aftermath, deals damage to a Pokémon that knocks it out. (Pokédex entry for Moon implies this is by its body bursting with a screaming sound as the soul spills out, or so, but the Drifloon will obviously still be okay after some healing after, hah.) Held Item: None.
New Pokémon caught! Amelia earned 1000 P!
Would you like to give a nickname to Drifloon?
She then assumingly continued on, eventually. She continued on through the Silent Forest, which indeed was silent except for the Flabébés following her and the rain that was still coming down. Following glowing arcs, Amelia made progress through the forest, the path continuing for quite a while. But, eventually, she reached somewhere. Her feet suddenly placed themselves on what was undoubtedly a flat, man-made rock made to be walked on, which continued as a path through the surrounding forest, straight towards an actual destination. A lonely structure, in the middle of the forest…
Deepforest Shrine
It’s a shrine. Following the arcs of the forest, eventually the path somehow reached this road made of rock, leading through the forest to a destination. Surrounded by forest, far from any road, lay this sudden, as if hidden, shrine. In the midst of the rainfall of the Northern Silent Forest, this was clearly not the Silent Shrine, but someplace else entirely. Yet, other than being a shrine in the middle of nowhere, was there anything relevant about this place? It seemed but empty, abandoned and bleak from here.
Yet… the shrine was attended. There were small, white-bodied green-capped little fellas standing a bit here and there, holding tiny brooms swiping like they were trying to be shrine maidens for the shrine. They also had noticed Amelia approaching way before she noticed them, some of them fleeing as if by sheer shyness, but others stood, watching the newcomer, unsure what to make of her yet.
Pokédex Entry #280 – Ralts, the Feeling Pokémon. The horn on its head can sense emotions, and its own mood will be affected in turn. It will approach positive emotion and its body will warm, while it will shy away from and avoid negativity and hostility. Quite rare to see in nature.
… But even more eye-catching than the odd attendants of the shrine. There was a young girl, sitting on the stairs up to the shrine, all alone except for the company of these Pokémon. She didn’t look much older than Amelia. But… there was something else. A brief flash of shimmering green, floating next to her head which the young girl had seemingly been talking with, shared a little laugh with… and it was gone moments after Amelia had seen the trace of it. In its wake, the girl was left on her own. She turned her head towards Amelia as she assumingly got closer.
‘Hehe, I’ve been sought out, here of all places.’ She mused, with an amused smile, legs crossed and with a soft expression. ‘You’re here to bring me home, I guess? Well, sounds like duty calls. Tihi.’ She giggled a little, before slowly standing up, making ready to move.
Amelia was now free to say or do whatever she found appropriate.
Lucario was focusing for Foresight, but became aware of the Pokémon around him going for an attack. It looked like he’d hit, but…
Just before he’d hit with the tackle, Lucario flew up steadily on his feet, spun around and aimed a powerful punch at him. With his current momentum, it was impossible for Ritz to dodge the more experienced Pokémon. The punch impacted with a heavy sound which anyone who heard would swear had to hurt badly, Lucario himself looking calm with his outstretched arm, looking like he was assuming that had finished the Ledyba. He glared at Ralia, eyes only slightly wavering from the confusion, and he was clearly making ready to dodge…
Then he got Ritz tackling into his face, Lucario’s expression twisting into one of utter confusion.
Now, it still hurt. Lucario’s high Attack against a Ledyba’s low defense meant a meaningful amount of damage, and after the Quick Attack as well Ritz didn’t have much health left. But then there was that Lucario had used a Fighting-type move against a Bug/Flying-type, and Ritz had basically just been pushed back by the heavy hit, his lightness, ability to fly and body-type all lending itself to that Power-Up Punch didn’t do quite the damage Lucario had expected, except for increasing his attack. Ritz was then free to slam into Lucario with Tackle, and regardless of how little damage it actually did it completely threw the Lucario’s sense of control out the window.
The time Ritz had given was enough for Ralia to get her own charged Confusion off straight into Lucario’s face.
‘LUC-!?’ Lucario took the hit, recouling and looked hurt, angry and confused all at the same time, and didn’t look like he was taking it well. However, he wasn’t out. He spun in place, extending an arm to slap Ritz out of his way. That might not have hit, but it was enough to momentarily free Lucario from Ritz’s tackles. Sparing no time, the now hurt Lucario spun and glared at Ralia, determined to end the greater threat before it became too much. Before she had time to charge a new Confusion, Lucario had taken his stance, and then launched himself forth at her in another Quick Attack.
… The wind of something flying by at a speed unachievable by a Ralts flew straight past Ralia, inches from having impacted her, the air from it breezing over her small body.
Then the whole building shook, an impact like a bomb striking it shooting from behind her, the shock-wave of it sending rocks and pieces of wall flying as cracks formed around the Lucario-shaped hole in the wall. The whole audience stared at the event with alarmed eyes, as the sounds of cracks spreading were alarmingly loud.
Lucario hurt itself in confusion!
Hector carefully approached the still smoking and still crumbling piece of wall and the hole that had shaped from it. Honestly, the cracks from the impact had spread several meters around said shape, almost up to the roof, was it still safe to be in here? The Gym Leader carefully reached into the hole, before pulling the Pokémon out with his strong fist, several rocks falling out the wall as the way for Lucario’s freedom was achieved.
‘… Oy. Don’t power yourself up and THEN shove yourself into the wall. We’re gonna have to pay for that, you know?’ Hector sounded like a coach lecturing his boxer about something he did wrong with that.
‘LuuuuUUUuuuuuh…’ Lucario, meanwhile, was hanging limp from Hector’s grip, eyes spinning, clearly not in any shape to continue fighting. Hector grinned a bit, nodding to him. ‘Well fought, young friend.’ He then returned Lucario to his Pokéball.
…
Ralia grew to level 10!
Ritz grew to level 10! Ritz learned Comet Punch!
… Did he get a hint of how to do a move of his own from Lucario’s punch?
There was numerous claps in the audience, they were somewhat impressed. Still, Lucario had basically done himself in on the end there. The greatest challenge was yet to come.
Now, it wasn’t entirely relevant, and Claire might with likelihood not even have noticed, but someone entered the building.
‘Oh, hey, Anise. There’s a Gym Challenge going on. Is it true this chick wrecked you?’ The Battle Girl by the door asked.
Anise had come in, probably becoming tired from waiting by the shrine or so, and returned home.
‘Huh?’ She’d blink a little in surprise, but then join the audience, looking over Claire. She’d now just be watching. She did not answer the Battle Girl’s question.
More relevant to Claire, Hector now turned to her, grinning widely.
‘Well fought…’ … Of course, now both Ralia and Ritz had taken serious damage from the Pokémon before. But, now it was just the last one to go. ‘Ooooh, I’m getting excited, my blood is pumping…!’ Hector’s eyes looked a little bloodshot. ‘OLIVER!’ He shouted.
‘Wait, you sure?’ Asked a suddenly hesitant Black Belt.
‘GET IT OVER HERE!’ Hector grinned wickedly at him, so ready to fight. Oliver looked startled, but ultimately shrugged.
‘Well, if you’re certain. Poor girl, though.’ Oliver replied, lobbing over a Pokéball that Hector quickly snapped out of the air, grinning at Claire.
‘It’s time for me to get into the ring…’ Hector kept his grin, before slamming the Pokéball into the ground, and a shape emerged. It was humanoid, brown in color, big red nose, purple bands going along its body, and two giant arms lifted… two huge blocks of concrete, that quickly slammed into the floor, shaking the building, as the Pokémon that honestly looked ready to take on the Pokémon League gave his roar, an atmosphere of sheer power emanating from that corner now.
‘COOOONKELDURR!’ He sounded out, before looking forth at his opponents.
Pokédex Entry #534 – Conkeldurr, the Muscular Pokémon. It uses concrete pillars as walking canes, and can swing these pillars freely in battle using the centrifugal force of spinning concrete. It is said that, thousands of years ago, Conkeldurr taught humans how to make concrete.
‘CONKELDURR! GYM BATTLE!’ Hector called out, and unlike how the two earlier seemed to have fire lit in their eyes by hearing this, Conkeldurr merely smirked. He knew what was going on. The muscular Pokémon oozed of confidence and power, to the degree that Claire could feel it looking at him. Hector smirked forward at her.
‘As per the rules… Feel free to add another Pokémon.’ Hector said. Then his eyes drifted to both Ralia and Ritz, both weakened after earlier struggles… he grinned, and so did Conkeldurr.
‘Actually… Feel free to send out your whole team! … And borrow some of Anise’s if you’d like! You might need ‘em!’ Hector didn’t really seem like he was thinking straight at this point, just plain excited to battle, and Conkeldurr didn’t seem to mind. Up to Claire how she reacted.
‘Wait, what?’ Anise, however, looked confused by this statement, needing a moment to process.
Gender: ♂ Type:Normal Level: 6 Moves: Tackle, Growl, Tail whip, Sand-attack, Helping Hand Ability: Adaptability Held Item: None. Status:100%
Gender: ♂ Type: Normal Level: 5 Moves: Leer, Tackle, Odor Sleuth Ability: Pickup. May randomly end up holding items. Held Item: None. Status:34%
Gender: ♀ Type: Normal/Flying Level: 5 Moves: Tackle, Sand-attack Ability: Tangled Feet. Greatly raises ability to evade if confused. Held Item: None. Status:21%
Gender: ♂ Type: Normal Level: 5 Moves: Scratch, Growl Ability: Technician. The power of low-powered moves are boosted. Held Item: Quick Claw Status:100%
Gender: ♀ Type: Ghost Level: 5 Moves: Leer, Night Shade, Pain Split Ability: Levitate. Pokémon is able to avoid ground-based attacks. Held Item: None. Status:100%
Gender: ♂ Type: Fire Level: 5 Moves: Bite, Roar Ability: Flash Fire, raises power of Fire-type moves after being hit by one. Held Item: None. Status:84%
Growlithe is level 5, which means its two levels higher from when it was caught - which in turn, means it is getting tougher and Erza is satisfied enough. Now, he shouldn't overdo his pokémon and tire them out. The boy had enough training in route 01, it was time to move along and find more interesting things like a pokéball laying around empty and ready to use - or tougher pokémon. There is a drain Route 01 and some trainers held a little... challenge/tourney there, it seemed. Could Erza partake? He wouldn't right now, but he made sure to cast a few glances and see what kind of pokémon they were using, if there was something interesting enough which isn't Rattatas or Pidgeys Erza might return later, if not... Well, nothing. Erza would move along Route 01 and make his way to Highhill Town.
If Erza makes it, lest the boy is confronted by a rare like Bulbasaur or a peculiar trainer that has no rattata nor pidgey, the boy will hastily move to the pokémon center and see about getting all his pokémon - or rather, the ones which have seen battle lately healed up and ready to go once again. While in Highhill Town... he waits.
Move along from Route 01 to Highhill Town; In Highhill Town: Well, let's see if he makes it without any issue or hindrance. I call for random event, though.
Type:Water Moves: Peck, Tail Whip, Water Sport, Supersonic Ability: Water Veil. Prevents burns Level: 5 Held Item: None Status: 50% health.
2555 P Antidote X1 Pokeball X4 Great Ball Repel X2 Potion X2 Super potions X3 Awakening Paralyze Heal Escape Rope
Nincada dove in to attack Marill, following up after Aron's hit. They sent the blue puffball flying backwards, a great attack. "Nice hit, Nincada." Now it was using Bubble and Aron was being targetted by Flabebe. He could stop and help Aron, but the Bubble didn't look that strong. No, Nincada was at too much of a disadvantage. "Nincada, good job, but it's time to switch. Back away from Marill, let's clean it up, Sprout."
Nincada was begrudgingly moving away from the enemy Pokemon to be called back. Martin was already reaching for his Pokeball, recalling Nincada and grabbing Sprout's Pokeball. No one was going after him this second, so he felt it was safe to swap right now. With two flashes of red, the party was swapped. In Nincada's place was Sprout looking fresh and ready for a fight. All Martin had to worry about was if Aron was going to hold on a bit longer.
They'd inflicted a good amount of damage, one more solid hit and Marill would be unable to battle. However Atlas didn't much in the way of special defense and the super effective attack had left him staggering, furthermore Martin was switching out his Pokémon leaving Atlas as, temporarily, the only friendly Pokémon on the field. With Marill's wall of bubbles preventing a frontal assault and Flabébé trying to finish of Atlas his options were extremely limited. He could try barrel through the bubble wall and inflict one last hit on Marill... but Atlas was already weakened and if the Flabébé's attack also hit he'd be done for. Or he could try to deal a parting shot to Flabébé, assuming Atlas could take the attack. Or... he could simply retreat and swap out. ... ... It wasn't worth it. Atlas had done more than enough already, asking him to do anything else would be excessive. "Good work Atlas" With a flash of light Atlas was returned to his Pokeball and Wooper came out next to Sprout. "Alright Wooper let's finish this off. Watergun Flabébé!"
Atlas Gender: Male Type: Steel/Rock Species: Aron Level: 7 Personality: A stubborn and sometimes disagreeable little fellow, he likes eating. A lot. He's smarter than he looks and can be quite devious in order to get what he wants. Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: Fill in as we go. Probably Moves: Tackle, Harden, Mudslap, Headbutt Ability: Sturdy. Allows the pokemon to survive an attack that would otherwise knock it out. Held Item:
Gender: Female Type: Water/Ground Personality: Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: Level: 6 Moves: Water Gun, Tail Whip, Mud Sport Ability: Water Absorb, will regain health upon being hit with a water-type move. Held Item: None.
Amelia didn't panic as the atmosphere changed. She simply watched Driffloon calmly, waiting to see what would happen. Luckily for her, things didn't take a turn for the worse and Driffloon agreed to join her. While she was confused as to what happened, she didn't question it for long and simply had her pokeball open and catch Driffloon. Once that was done, she continued on, following the glowing arcs. She was curious why it seemed that the arc ahead of her only glowed after she passed through the one that was currently glowing but again, she didn't question it too much.
Eventually, she would come across the shrine. By this point, the girl was soaked to the bone and shivering from how cold she was. Still, she managed a smile at the sight of all the Ralts at the shrine and the Feeling-Pokémon would be able to sense a kind of serene happiness from her. She moved closer to the shrine, just eager to get out of the rain, when she heard someone else talk to her. Looking up, she saw a girl that was probably several years her senior, once again. There was also a flash of green near the girl, causing Amelia to try and make out what details she could. She then focused on the girl and gave her a kind smile. "I suppose your the Gym Leader from back in town. I did come to challenge you but... right now I just want to warm up." Amelia said before sneezing. "So, um... may I enter the shrine?"
Claire grimaced as Ritz was attacked, but otherwise remained confident.
"That's a good boy, Ritz!" She called out as the weaker bug type tanked the hit like a pro and quickly returned the favor to Lucario. Ralia quickly followed up with a well placed confusion...but it wasn't enough. Damn it. Claire couldn't help but to grit her teeth and prepare for the inevitable. With that attack and speed, there was no way Ralia could dodge that Lucario. The Ralts could do nothing, so it decided it would at least go out fabulously. It struck a pose, giving the audience a confident pose...just as the feeling of wind rushed past it and the whole building shaking from the impact of Lucario slamming into the wall behind Ralia.
"Rrrral?~" It cried happily at the turn of events, acting as if she had planned for that entire thing to happen.
"E-eh!?" Claire was momentarily stunned by the turn of events.
"L-led..." Ritz fluttered to the ground next to Claire, clearly exhausted. That Lucario...so fast. It was not something a little buggy bug like him was equipped to deal with. It was too fast, much faster than he could ever hope to be. But...he had won, hadn't he? The little bug offered a confident grin up to Claire as the redhead reached down and wrapped the exhausted bug in an excited hug.
"Wahaah!~" Claire laughed heartily, snuggling the bug. "You did great, boy! I'm so proud of you that was amazing!" Well, it may not have been the most confident bug in the world...but...everything had more or less gone well, hadn't it? Was it over then? "No rest for now though, you two." Claire released the bug, Ritz fluttering tiredly near her. "One more pokemon to deal with."
Hector had finished whatever it was he was doing...and sent out his third pokemon.
A Conkeldurr.
"...heh, and he's a big guy, isn't he?" Whatever momentary confidence Ritz had gained was lost near instantly.
"L-led!" The Ledyba grimaced, fluttering a bit behind his trainer and out of the powerful gaze of the fighting type. Claire placed a confident hand on the bugs head, patting him softly.
"Eeey, now." She grinned. "We dealt with that Lucario easily enough. We can handle this guy." That said, it was getting a little warm in here, wasn't it? "This is just now gettin' to the main event!" She grabbed her final two pokeballs, and tossed them out onto the arena.
"Del, Lure!" In a flash of red light, two more bug types emerged on the field. "No time to think much you two, but we're in a Gym battle! We're fighting that over sized turnip head!"
"K-kakuna?!"
"...Combee."
Del stared at the large fighting type in front of it with a deadpan expression. Combee hovered next to Claire, giving her an expression that pretty much read 'Did you really, bitch?'
"Lure don't give me your sass right now! Just stay out of the way if you're not gonna help." Lure gave her a deadpan expression before rolling its collective six eyes and proceeded to flutter out of the ring. Quickly, Claire turned to Anise. "Anise! Meditite and Froakie ASAP!"
‘Oh, there he is.’ Said an old, local man who once in a while visited Rory’s home to chat with his parents. Darryl had grey hair, the uniform of a working man and was closely followed by a Machop for some reason, and he had just entered the Pokémon Center and walked over to where Rory was sitting.
‘Getting ready for your Pokémon journey, huh? Already started it. Good on you. Always nice to see young trainers growing up. Reminds me of my own journey, all those years ago. Hueh-heh.’ He chuckled a bit for himself. ‘Now, I know we’re not supposed to spoil the kiddos that embark on their journeys… but I’m not gonna have any more use of this, am I?’ He chuckled a bit darkly, as he put two items on the table…
Rory obtained Scope Lens!
Rory obtained TM65 Shadow Claw!
‘Go get them, kiddo.’ Darryl chuckled to himself, the old Pokémon trainer turning with intention to leave, Machop looking curiously at Rory for a moment before turning to leave with him. Of course, if Rory wanted to intercept him, he could. Otherwise, he could continue his journey, or continue sitting there.
Highhill Town
(couldn’t decide what image I wanted to use)
Highhill Town is a small, lively place that has seemingly stood atop this hill from time immemorial and never really changed. The atmosphere in Highhill Town is much fresher than surrounding places, the buildings are older and the work as honest as ever. The old town is populated by elders and younglings aplenty, and the town has a culture of their own. Plenty of Pokémon assist with the work, either as work-force or the animals that work is being done on.
One usually only crosses Highhill Town on a trip to or from Pureplain City. Regardless, it is a place of beauty. The fields around it are cultivated by hard-working people and Pokémon while the lake to the east gleams in the sunshine as fishermen attend it. There are small roads of asphalt spiraling up the hill to lead to all the old buildings, and children playing around in stairs or nature is very common.
It is said that a trainer praying at the nearby Silent Shrine will be blessed on their journey, so many travel to Highhill Town just for that. There’s also a set of very ancient rocks spread about town, pointing out towards the lake on top of the hill with some engravings. What they mean? Nobody knows. Also, Highhill Town is the residence of a certain Move Changer, whose abilities are sought by some new trainers. What he can do? Visit him to find out.
1. Find Pokémon. Can still search for Pokémon in towns~ 2. Talk. In cities, there are considerably more people one can talk to. Talking can give you info on local rumors and such. 3. Exit. Exit the town to any of the connected areas. 4. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 5. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 6. Notable Buildings. Visit any of the facilities of the city! 6.1. Pokémon Center. Heal all your Pokémon. 6.2. PokéMart. Go to a store and buy things. 6.3. Pokémon Gym. ??? 6.4. Docks. For fishermen or perhaps a ticket across Route 14. 6.5. Ancient Rocks. Of completely unknown origin, ancient writing on them. 6.6. Ranch. There are ranches around Highhill, if you stand to gain from them. 6.7. Move Changer. We can guess from the name, but what can this man do? 6.8. Mayor’s House. If you see reason to visit, it’s right by the rocks. 7. Rory Character Specific: Home. You may make up whatever you wish that you might want to revisit here, within reasonable limits.
Connected areas: Route 1. To the south, is the common route of first journeys. Green and straight. Route 3. To the north, the route to Rainrock or the Silent Shrine. A wet woodland. Route 14. To the east, the lake known as the Dragon Lake, potentially for crossing.
Soooooooo, Erza peeked down into the drain. So, there were trainers conducting themselves in battle, along with a youngster that seemingly was shouting commands to other kids to “defend his kingdom” or something like that… anyways. Other than Pidgeys and Rattatas, he saw a trainer with one of these…
Pokédex Entry #300 – Skitty, the Kitten Pokémon. It lives in holes in trees of forests. It easily becomes fascinated with things and chase them, and it commonly seen chasing its own tail. While popular due to perceived cuteness, it is very difficult to earn a Skitty’s trust and friendship.
And one of these…
Pokédex Entry #270 – Lotad, the Water Weed Pokémon. They live in clean ponds and lakes, where they float with their large leaves above the surface, and they serve as ferries to smaller Pokémon. They rise climb ashore only in search of cleaner water. If it’s dehydrated, the leaf will wilt.
And one example of this…
Pokédex Entry #23 – Ekans, the Snake Pokémon. It stealthily sneaks through grass to prey on small animals and bird-eggs. When born, it is short and has no poison, but the poison develops and it grows longer as it gets older. When it sleeps, it wraps itself around a tree to safely sleep high up from the ground.
Well. That aside, he could move on towards Highhill Town, following the road alongside the grasslands that are Route 1. He’d soon enough be approaching the town, walking by young new trainers catching and fighting in the grass, when…
‘March out!’
A group of people, led by two people of different genders up front, marched out of Highhill. They were dressed primarily in white. The male had white hair, red details on his white uniform, black boots and a long, stylish cape. The female had a white cap, pink details under a white vest, black details and dark hair.
They wore their clothes with grace, their appearance inspiring confidence. They had a mission, and they were leading their men towards it. Their apparent might could have been awe-inspiring. Yet, there was this tiny little detail that was distracting from it, a little flaw that kept it from looking that cool and perhaps serving to make it all just a bit silly. And that was that behind them…
… Now, obviously, there were some individual differences. Some were perhaps taller or shorter than others, their faces and hair-colors differed, each was their own individual. But all individuals of the specific gender was wearing the exact same attire, and looked like they had basically the exact same personality.
‘Woah, Team Virtue Grunts!’ Some random kid informatively called out. ‘What are they doing out here?’ Someone else asked, receiving no reply.
‘Comb the forest! Don’t rest until we’ve found her!’ The guy in front called, and the grunts spread out, and they went to enter the Silent Forest from the south. Why they did so was only hinted at through their words as they headed off. Now, Erza could perhaps have stopped one or two if he decided to, but other than that, they had absolutely no interest in him. … Oh, look, they dropped something.
Erza found Team Virtue Lvl 1 Keycard!
… … … … … …
So, um. There was absolutely no telling where this led, and someone was probably going to get into trouble for dropping it. But other than that… yupp, up to Erza what he does next.
If he headed on to Highhill;
Highhill Town
(couldn’t decide what image I wanted to use)
Highhill Town is a small, lively place that has seemingly stood atop this hill from time immemorial and never really changed. The atmosphere in Highhill Town is much fresher than surrounding places, the buildings are older and the work as honest as ever. The old town is populated by elders and younglings aplenty, and the town has a culture of their own. Plenty of Pokémon assist with the work, either as work-force or the animals that work is being done on.
One usually only crosses Highhill Town on a trip to or from Pureplain City. Regardless, it is a place of beauty. The fields around it are cultivated by hard-working people and Pokémon while the lake to the east gleams in the sunshine as fishermen attend it. There are small roads of asphalt spiraling up the hill to lead to all the old buildings, and children playing around in stairs or nature is very common.
It is said that a trainer praying at the nearby Silent Shrine will be blessed on their journey, so many travel to Highhill Town just for that. There’s also a set of very ancient rocks spread about town, pointing out towards the lake on top of the hill with some engravings. What they mean? Nobody knows. Also, Highhill Town is the residence of a certain Move Changer, whose abilities are sought by some new trainers. What he can do? Visit him to find out.
1. Find Pokémon. Can still search for Pokémon in towns~ 2. Talk. In cities, there are considerably more people one can talk to. Talking can give you info on local rumors and such. 3. Exit. Exit the town to any of the connected areas. 4. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 5. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 6. Notable Buildings. Visit any of the facilities of the city! 6.1. Pokémon Center. Heal all your Pokémon. 6.2. PokéMart. Go to a store and buy things. 6.3. Pokémon Gym. ??? 6.4. Docks. For fishermen or perhaps a ticket across Route 14. 6.5. Ancient Rocks. Of completely unknown origin, ancient writing on them. 6.6. Ranch. There are ranches around Highhill, if you stand to gain from them. 6.7. Move Changer. We can guess from the name, but what can this man do? 6.8. Mayor’s House. If you see reason to visit, it’s right by the rocks.
Connected areas: Route 1. To the south, is the common route of first journeys. Green and straight. Route 3. To the north, the route to Rainrock or the Silent Shrine. A wet woodland. Route 14. To the east, the lake known as the Dragon Lake, potentially for crossing.
Both trainers exchanged their Pokémon. Sprout came out, and as he got vision he also got hit by a couple of bubbles that drifted forward by Marill’s Bubble attack. … It did, like, nothing, if not counting providing nutrition for his growth. Marill recoiled in fear at seeing Sprout, knowing enough about type-advantages to know it was in deep trouble. Meanwhile, Flabébé lost her target as Atlas was recalled, and Dawkin instead sent out Wooper… and Flabébé happily rerouted the attack at the newly sent-out Pokémon. Wooper was unable to dodge the attack, the Fairy Wind striking her straight on, dealing a good chunk of neutral damage on her, decent Special Attack against subpar Special Defense helping.
‘Flabébé, circle in, Vine Whip the Wooper, dodge Water Guns! Marill, Tackle Bulbasaur, don’t let it intervene!’ Cathia commended, pointing forward on the same turn as Wooper would now start to Water Gun.
The advantage of floating was obvious, hard to hit with physical moves. The disadvantage was, of course, that it weighed little and a direct-hit Water Gun would send Flabébé spiraling into the rock-wall. Flabébé started flying a little sideways, avoiding direct hits from Water Gun, but taking some damage from almost-hits as she tried to approach, Vine Whips starting to sprout from its flowers as it tried to close the distance.
‘Mariiiiiiiiii---!’ Meanwhile, Marill committed to a suicidal charge against its type’s nemesis, hoping to make Bulbasaur unable to intervene with Flabébé’s attack on Wooper.
The Raltses around did look to her and smile in turn, feeling her happiness, accepting her as she was permitted to approach the shrine without them fleeing for some reason. Unfortunately, she was unable to catch any more detailed from whatever floating green something had been there, it was completely gone now. Hearing her words, the girl blinked at Amelia a little in surprise, but she could see that, yeah, maybe that is what happens when you walk in the rain.
‘Teh-heh. Yeah, you look cold. Yes, you may enter, as soon as-’
‘Raaaaaaaalts!’ One of the tiny green-capped “shrine maidens” pointed at what was unmistakably an empty offering box with its tiny broom. … Seems like an offering was needed in order to enter.
Assuming she did that, the Ralts simply nodded in satisfaction and then continued out swiping with miniature broom while they were free to enter. Amount or even money wasn’t even important, just that she put basically anything in it and she was golden.
Inside… it was clear this shrine hadn’t been properly attended for a long time. Now, there were plenty of Ralts around keeping the place clean, but they weren’t exactly maintaining the place. But, otherwise, it was pretty nice. A large, wooden floor, slide-doors on the sides, an altar with some unlit lanterns that prayed to an empty wall. A couple of cushions that looked severely out of place, some with Ralts resting on them, probably brought here by the girl.
Speaking of her, she dropped a Pokéball on the floor, which lit up and then the place got instantly warmer.
‘Larv…?’ Asked a white-maned bug with multiple red horns, the top three emitting a bit of flame around it.
Pokédex Entry #636 – Larvesta, the Torch Pokémon. A Pokémon said to have been born from the sun. It lives at the base of volcanoes. It spews fire from its five horns in order to repel enemies, but can also use these flames to fly. When about to evolve, it encases itself in a cocoon of fire until the evolution has been completed.
When in and warming up by the Larvesta, who had been sent out for that purpose before being petted by the girl, she turned to Amelia, smiling a little smile as she spoke.
‘Yepp. So. I’m Lorette, Bug-type Gym Leader of Highhill Town. I did kinda want to be the Fairy-type Gym Leader, but we already had Jeanette of Gentlevale. Besides, my mother was a respected Major League Bug-type Gym Leader of Highhill, so I just properly took up her mantle! This Larvesta is actually the child of my mother’s Volcarona, tihi. Oh, but I couldn’t become a Major League Gym Leader, I wasn’t experienced enough. So we had too many Minor Gym Leaders for a bit. But, that allowed Clement of Rainrock to be promoted to a Major League Gym Leader. I heard Hector of Redcoast wanted the position, but Clement was judged more worthy.’ Lorette had started prattling on about something.
‘Woops. I went on a tangent. So, how are you feeling?’ Lorette asked her, while Larvesta stayed close to warm them.
Add a couple of more claps of some Battle Girls impressed with Ralia’s form when striking that pose as Lucario flew by. Then there was a number of approving smiles seeing her praising Ritz.
Then a little later. Anise looked back and forth between Hector and Claire for a bit, wide-eyed at this sudden announcement of that apparently her Pokémon was for hire, or something, but then Claire made her command.
‘Okay, okay! I’ll be expecting to get them back in one piece and-’ She threw a glance at Conkeldurr as she took out two Pokéballs. ‘-and NOT FLATTENED, okay!?’ She frowned as she threw the Pokéballs into the floor. Out came a blue frog, and a floating yoga-practicing whatever-that-is. Both of which blinking in realization when they saw Conkeldurr in front of them.
‘Okay, this is a bit sudden, but you’re helping Claire in her Gym Challenge, okay? It’s all of you versus one of him. Listen to Claire’s commands, and I’ll give you plenty of treats later, okay?’ She said to her Pokémon, causing them to look back at her with surprise and then looking to Claire.
‘Froakie…’ Froakie looked a unsure, eyeing Claire with some animosity, but nodded and turned to face his foe.
‘Medi~!’ Meditite looked fairly amused by the situation. Probably meant she was okay with it.
‘Okay!’ Anise turned to look at Claire, now, frowning. ‘Froakie knows Pound, Growl, Bubble and Quick Attack. Just learned Quick Attack, so might not be experienced with it. Meditite knows Bide, Meditate and Confusion.’ Both are Level 8 ‘For now, I leave them to you, then!’
Hector and Conkeldurr both just watched, excitement building yet they simply had to wait until Claire was feeling ready to take on this challenge, or it was pointless. Both grinned at her though, waiting for the commands.
Pokédollars 1200
Pokéballs 9
Potions 4
Everstone 1
Lunar Wing 1
Ragecandy Bar 1
Razor Claw 1
Star Piece 1
TM66 Payback 1 
Mysterious Egg
