So, Erza got closer, intending to catch one of the Blitzles among the rain and lightning strikes. Though, when he got closer to the heard, there was suddenly something that caught his eye. It was very faint... but wasn't there something... off... about one of the Blitzles?
Yeah, right there, in the middle of the herd. One of them was oddly more blue than the rest. It was faint, barely a difference as far as differences go, hard to see on a distance in the rain which was why he didn't see it until now... but there it was.
... And the whole pack had basically gathered around that particular Blitzle.
Wisp stood basically frozen as she looked at all the heroes, and villains, surrounding her. She had the unique property that she was, in fact, able to look at all of them at the same time. It was overwhelming. Being a somewhat studied cape online, she knew a lot of these names. She knew the big-shots that were coming in, and she couldn’t help but have to hold her breath. What was she doing here? What was she doing in the presence of all these legends? … Speaking of legends, here was Legend himself. Backed up by Alexandria and Eidolon. Wisp felt overwhelmed.
She was now deeply thankful she hadn’t come as Creep. Creep would have had to withstand the fact her influence on Denver meant so darn little in the grand scheme of things and that she had to join into crowd, like a nobody. Creep wouldn’t be able to stand being a nobody. It would have been seething on her mind, that she had to stand out somehow, that she had to make herself an asset. Wisp didn’t have that pressure. Wisp was free to just be herself and dedicate herself to try to be as helpful as she could while maintaining a minor presence. Yeah, that’d do. She felt at least slightly sure of herself.
… Then Legend started talking, and he didn’t help her at all. If anything, he was making her more and more discouraged. He stated one of three of them would die. Wisp shook, feeling herself getting teary-eyed. What was she even doing here? She was so likely to die. She couldn’t even think of her sister right now, she was fine, but Wisp herself!? None of her powers felt like they’d help. She could as well be a civilian. It felt like she was getting herself killed for nothing. She was NOTHING compared to all these great capes around her. She should have evacuated like a normal civilian…
Legend started telling people where they’d go. Kill aura was a no-go, Wisp greatly doubted being invisible protected you from Behemoth. Distance attacker? Er. Wisp was kind of a distance attacker, but only against things with eyes, and something told her Behemoth couldn’t be blinded. Provide cover? She usually considered invisibility or blasts of light cover, but once again, not against Behemoth. … So with that, suppose she had to go to Inkscape. The Protectorate member she always feared the most due to the fear he’d sense her clothes even when invisible and just bind her up while she was committing any form of crime. … Guess that was insignificant in these circumstances.
Then the tremor hit. And with the roar, Behemoth made himself known. Wisp, feeling woefully unprepared and like she was about to face certain doom, lamented the fact she couldn’t dry her tears through the laser-goggles she was wearing. Also the fact she felt like she was probably going to die. God… damn it.
Guess there was nothing else to it, huh. Got to do what she can.
Wisp ran over to Inkscape and probably collected one of those communicators. “Communicate”, Legend said, but Wisp was too afraid that raising her voice meant talking over someone more useful. Still. She made herself available, while looking all around her. Still keeping her wisp floating about her, just in case someone recognized it and wanted to make use of her.
In lack of anything else, she'd try to make someone aware of her powers allowing her to see all around her as well as potentially shooting light at things like beacons if so needed. Then she'll do something. (Consider this post unfinished, I'll write something more when I figure something out. She'll do SOMETHING, just need to come up with it first.)
Speedrunner, somewhat more confident, probably went to the distance attackers + Legend first, with a statement of ‘I speed people close to me up! I can make those who can hurt Behemoth faster!’ to either the other capes there or the communicator, hopeful to make herself useful. Maybe she was better used for S&R, but she’d try getting into the big leagues anyway.
‘Thank you for waiting. We’ve restored your Pokémon to full health.’
She says as she hands the Pokéballs back. She then bows to her customer and gives a friendly smile.
‘We hope to see you again!’
Then he went off to bother a random villager about the place. Little did he know what was in store for him.
‘Uh-huh? New trainer, eh?’ the man Valen spoke to asked, turning around to face him, adjusting his hat and putting aside a staff he'd been holding. ‘Curious about out little town, huh? Okay, then you're in for the long haul,’ he smirked, grabbed Valen and then put him down on a chair next to him that he hadn't registered existed, and the man sat down there, too. For some reason Valen felt like he wouldn't be able to leave this seat for a long while.
‘When people arrive in Isson, they naturally land in Pureplain City, it's ports known to locals as the “Gateway of Isson”. It's a big city, after all! However, while Pureplain City has grown up to become larger relatively recently, Highhill Town as you see it here has existed where it stands since seemingly time immemorial. In the distant past somebody built a settlement on this high hill as a point of strategic advantage as well as proximity to the resources within the Silent Forest and the Dragon Lake. It’s also been blessed with the same plains Pureplain City was once named for across the nearby hills, making it an excellent place for making farms and ranches and other such useful things for human survival.
Highhill Town could never grow, for the fields around it are essential to its continued use and existence. However, it is not all that uncommon that a man might live in Pureplain City but work in Highhill Town. Likewise, it is also common that a child in Highhill Town might go to school in Pureplain City, known for its schools. The atmosphere in Highhill Town is much fresher than surrounding places, the buildings are older and the work as honest as ever. Plenty of Pokémon assist with the work, either as work-force or the animals that work is being done on, but all in all, Highhill and Pureplain work with a very nice balance of needing one another to exist.
One usually only crosses Highhill Town on a trip to or from Pureplain City. Regardless, this is a place of beauty. It is surrounded by nature’s beauty, the fields are cultivated and the lake gleaming in the sunshine. There are small roads of asphalt spiraling up the hill to lead to all the buildings, and children playing around in stairs or nature is very common. People fish in the lake, but don’t go too far into it, then it becomes dragon territory. There’s also a set of very ancient rocks on top of our town, pointing out towards the lake on top of the hill with some engravings. What might they be? … Who knows? But, residents of Highhill knows, there are similar rocks near Stillwood Village and Lakewatch Town, all directed in towards the lake, making a triangle around the Dragon Lake. What these do? Nobody knows. Nobody can read the ancient engravings, so.
A natural consequence of the age of Highhill Town is the culture that comes with it. Stories told by the elder of the generation to wide-eyed children. One such tale speaks of how one year long ago a terrifying monster laid waste to the crops and the fields, nobody could stop it. Then, a single trainer wandered into the Silent Forest, to pray to the spirits within. A fairy descended, and blessed him on his quest. The trainer was afterwards joined on his quest by the guardians of the forest and together they were able to subdue the monster, sending it on its way. The story is actually a lot longer, and the studios of Justroad City has made a fairly popular film about it, but as a consequence it is now tradition for many new trainers to come by Highhill Town to go pray at the Silent Shrine nearby, built where the trainer is said to have been blessed by the fairy and the guardians. It is superstition, but it’s now tradition and no trainer who has gone there can say to have regretted it. They say every Champion of Isson prayed at the shrine at some point or another! You should too!
On the top of the hill is the mayor’s house, and he’s pretty well respected. The reputable Move Changer also makes his home in Highhill Town, and many young trainers around these parts make their way to him to seek his abilities. The Move Changer’s ability is to teach a Pokémon to change the type of a low-powered move (50 power or less) to one which corresponds with one of the Pokémon’s own types, but he only does it for a hefty price. For example, he's taught his own Charmander to make his Scratch into a Fire Scratch. And then, of course, there’s the Pokémon Gym. It’s somewhat on the outskirts of town, a large building that has been filled with water and its insides is themed after a shrine of its own.
Our Gym Leader's name is Lorette, and she’s a specialist of the Bug-type. Her title is the “The Shrine’s Bug-Maiden”, Gym Leader of the Minor Pokémon League, and she gives the Shrine Badge to anyone who defeats her. She may be young and relatively inexperienced, but her Pokémon are inherited from her mother, the previous Gym Leader, and are all battle-hardened warriors. A new trainer would do well to not underestimate them.
So, as tradition would have it, the Gym Leader of Highhill Town is also always the Shrine Maiden of the Silent Shrine. Lorette is very new to the job. Only a couple of years ago, Highhill Town enjoyed having one of the most admired and reputable Gym Leaders around. She was known to be one of the most beautiful women in existence, and people travelled from afar just to see her. She was also a Major League Gym Leader, with magnificent prowess in the field of battle and is said to have been a glory to behold. Alas, she stepped down from her position a few years ago during the Team Wars for an unknown reason. People say she had some quest she had to accomplish, and she wasn’t seen for numerous years.
As I said, replacing her is her daughter, Lorette. The little girl has already had her own Pokémon journey and upon her return she was given some of her mother’s Pokémon in order to keep the Gym up and running. The Gym was degraded to a Minor League Gym, because Lorette didn’t have the experience to run a Major League Gym and, in addition, having two Major League Gyms in Pureplain and Highhill was seen as somewhat unfair as most new trainers in Isson started from Pureplain. There were some who complained about the Gym being taken over by a young girl, but the Pokémon League had properly tested her and found her worthy of the title. Because she had been raised and trained by the previous Shrine Maiden, Lorette already knew all the duties she needed to take over the shrine as well as the Gym, and was competent at Pokémon battles.
Lorette herself is a curious, dutiful but playful young girl that enjoys making herself seem mystic. She spends many of her waking hours wandering the Silent Forest, and she almost always gets lost. It’s practically a tradition at this point, Lorette gets lost. She says she plays with the fairies or bug-Pokémon during this time. Every time, the Pokémon of the forest eventually guide her back, as if knowing she has duties to attend to. She goes to school like a normal girl her age, too, and she’s fairly popular. Her title as Gym Leader might have something to do with that. Regardless, she’s known to customize her Gym Battle to the level of those challenging her, trying to make the match fun while still being challenging, unlike some other Gym Leaders who don’t hold back at all. Overall, she’s well liked in Highhill Town, and enjoys her position for now.
She accepts all challengers! … … … Assuming they’re prepared to wait until she comes back from being lost in the forest, that is. Or, if you're impatient, you can try going to look for her. She's typically somewhere in Silent Forest, heh. Either at Silent Shrine, or in the depths of the forest itself.
As for rare Pokémon. There are some rare fairies in Silent Forest, and Tropius! Tropius is pretty rare. Otherwise, mainly fairy and grass-Pokémon around her and north. Drifloons do appear, I suppose. And, Pokémon who like it wet. It always rains on Route 3 and Silent Forest. On Route 1... they say they saw a strange lizard or frog-like Pokémon with a bulb on its back? Strange notion. In any case.
There's a couple rumors about that Team Virtue has been more active than usually around here. I wonder what could be the cause? Usually they only respond to Team Amethyst or other criminals. Eh, I don't know. They have a base in Redcoast City, if someone would like to go ask.
Hm. I think that's all for now. Thank you for listening!’
… With that the man stood up and walked, looking exceedingly satisfied. Had Valen survived? He may not have learned what he intended on learning, entirely depends on him.
What's Valen doing now?
1. Find Pokémon. Can still search for Pokémon in towns~ 2. Talk. In cities and towns, 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.
Claire started training in the Mountain Valley. After some battling, she’d find that the first birds she saw were not in fact the only things with wings that could be found in this area. Depending on how friendly she looked, one of these cotton-winged creatures might just try to sit on her head.
Pokédex Entry #333 – Swablu, the Cotton Bird Pokémon. Swablu has light and fluffy wings that are like cottony clouds. This Pokémon is not frightened of people. It lands on the heads of people and sits there like a cotton-fluff hat. As it cannot relax in dirty places it will clean any dirt it finds with its wings and then clean them in a stream.
And then, from a cliffside of Mt. Strength, a creature yelled as it jumped from further up the mountain. Spreading its cape it flew quite a distance down the mountain before making an athletic summersault and landing on its feet in front of Claire in a battle stance, issuing its challenge towards her.
Pokédex Entry #701 – Hawlucha, the Wrestling Pokémon. Although its body is small, its proficient fighting skills enable it to keep up with big bruisers like Machamp and Hariyama. With its wings, it controls its position in the air. It likes to attack from above, a maneuver that is difficult to defend against.
That all said.
So, unfortunately for Claire, 5/6 of her Pokémon are weak to Flying-types, hence she did have some trouble successfully training her Pokémon in this area. That said, 4/5 of those weak to birds fared EXCELLENTLY against the many Skiddos! … That left Pip, who’d lose the average encounter with a Skiddo. Still, suppose she could abuse Poisonpowder for at least one win.
Ralia grew to level 15! Ritz grew to level 16! Lure grew to level 15! Del grew to level 15! Del learned Focus Energy! Zeal grew to level 15! Pip grew to level 11!
Otherwise, she didn’t find anything particularly interesting.
What would Claire do now?
1. Find Pokémon. Can be specified what kind of Pokémon is being searched for, and how you search. 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Seek trainers. Though most people around here seems to just be people enjoying the view together or alone. 4. Talk. There are some people around, enjoying the evening in the woods. Maybe speak with them if you want. 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: Climb. Not the recommended path onto Mt. Strength, but it looks like you could theoretically climb with the right tools. Mt. Chill is way too steep, though.
Connected areas: Stillwood Village. A village hidden inside a forest, connected by the Mountain Valley road. Route 10. The farmlands feeding Worldedge City awaits to the east, giving a mystic feeling.
Now, something to realize here is that Budew was a test-Pokémon. Budew wasn’t part of Earl’s core fighting team. These two are.
After having fed Elgyem the Spec Herbs, Elgyem immediately took Paradise’s Razor Leaf. No critical hit, but Elgyem was damaged. However, from sheer experience afterwards Elgyem was faster, focusing in a fast high-powered Confusion in on Paradise, which took more health in return. They traded back and forth, but on account of being level 6 against a level 9, Paradise couldn’t out-damage Elgyem and unfortunately fainted. So out came Seabreeze. Seabreeze was WAY faster, and committed to a Fowl Flap against Elgyem.
Except, Fowl Flap is not a move that actually does damage. Double except, nobody in the entire world knows how you actually perform Fowl Flap correctly on account it shouldn’t actually be a proper move, so Seabreeze somehow improvised it into an attack-move and struck Elgyem in the face. Elgyem fainted! … Seabreeze took recoil damage!
Paradise grew to level 7!
Then came Cubone. Earl shrugged and pulled out a Volt Tackle Potion.
Earl used Volt Tackle Potion! Electric-type was added to Cubone! Cubone’s Defense severely fell! Cubone’s Special Defense rose!
… And, uh, that was it! He did not learn Volt Tackle Imitation nor suffer any status problems.
‘Er,’ Earl made a noise of someone whose plan didn’t work out, and Cubone looked back at him questioningly. It didn’t seem like it had tasted particularly dreadfully either. Seabreeze was then free to just Water Gun a panicking Cubone to fainting while Earl stood scratching his head trying to figure out what went wrong. It took an extra Water Gun because Cubone’s Special Defense ROSE for some reason, but otherwise it wasn’t a challenge seeing how Bone Club was Cubone’s only attack-move. Cubone fainted.
Seabreeze grew to level 8! Seabreeze learned Wing Attack!
Skylar was victorious! Skylar gained 650 P for winning!
‘… Huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuh…’ Earl made a long noise, looking down at his fainted Cubone and raised a hand to his chin as he considered. ‘I could have sworn that I stabilized those effects… Well, give or take a few status effects…’
As he was debating this… another Pokémon suddenly emerged entirely on its own from one of Earl’s pockets. The herbalist blinked twice, suddenly alarmed, and spun around to another, bigger, skull-wearing Pokémon glaring at him.
Pokédex Entry #105 – Marowak, the Bone Keeper Pokémon. Having overcome the grief of losing its mother, it has grown tough. It seeks out special Marowak cemeteries, where it collects bones to serve as its weapons. It was once a weak creature, but skilled usage of these weapons has helped it grow ever stronger.
‘Marowak!’ the Pokémon announced, causing Earl to jump out of the way in part-panic.
‘GAH! WE TALKED ABOUT THIS! WE TALKED ABOUT THIS!’ Earl shouted as he rolled on the ground next to the area. Now, Marowak picked up the fainted Cubone, starting to cradle the smaller Pokémon while as Earl finally came to a stop. ‘You have to understand, he WANTS to fight. You have to let him do that. We already let you come along on the journey, you have to let him go a bit more than that…’
‘C-cu!?’ Being cradled suddenly caused the Cubone to awake from being fainted with a start, wide-eyed, when… ‘Cuboooooooooone…!’ … it leapt out of Marowak’s bosom to stand startled on his own, Marowak standing confused a bit away.
‘Oh, boy…’ Earl sighed.
‘Maro! Marowak!’ the Marowak called to the Cubone, sounding worried… Cubone! What’s the matter with you? I’m your mother!
‘Cu… cubone…’ Cubone replied. No… That’s not it…
Cubone, teary eyed, then raised his hand to touch the skull he was wearing… ‘Cu… cu… boooooooooooooone…!’ My mother’s… right… heeeeeeeeeeeeeeere…! Cubone said, starting to suddenly bawl loudly with an impressive amount of water coming from his eyes, most assuredly convinced the skull is that of its mother.‘Cubone, boooone…!’ My mother’s deeeaaad…!
‘Maro! Mawak!’ Marowak told, suddenly annoyed and putting her hands on her hips. Cubone! I am your mother!
‘Cu… cubone… cubone!’ No… that’s not true… That’s impossible! Cubone stated, in a state of total disbelief.
‘Marowak, maro-marowak!’ Search your feelings, you know it to be true! Marowak told back, giving her son a moment to collect himself.
‘Cuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu…!’ Noooooooooooooooo…! … Cubone shouted out as he spun 180 degrees and started fleeing into the forest. Marowak was startled for a moment, and then started shouting after her son and started to chase after…
‘And there they go…’ Earl sighed, standing up and walking over to Skylar again. ‘Sorry about that. It’s a mother that won’t leave her son ever and a son that believes he’s wearing the skull of his dead mother. Anyways, you won. Good job.’
Back to real world. What was Skylar doing now, again?
‘Thank you for waiting. We’ve restored your Pokémon to full health.’
She says as she hands the Pokéballs back. She then bows to her customer and gives a friendly smile.
‘We hope to see you again!’
After healing, he sent two of them back after relocating the Quick Claw. Don’t worry, Kalmia will take care of them. Then he asked about Safari Zone…
‘Er, there isn’t so much of a Safari Zone in Isson… though there is a Safari route. Route 6 to the south, south-east of Lakewatch Town is a large, open plain where many wild Pokémon often seen in the Safari Zone of other regions appear. But, if you’re talking about the aesthetics of the Safari Zone, then suppose Play Park? It’s just north-east of Worldedge City. You get balls and can try to catch the Pokémon that appear. The kinds vary greatly per month and day! Maybe that’s what you’re looking for?’
With that said, Erza could head on towards Route 11. Searching the route for rare Pokémon, eh.
So, he started searching the route, when he noticed that light rain started coming down again. It wasn’t a lot of rain, but then all of a sudden lightning struck, storm clouds showing up and being threatening. Trainers started moving on to potentially avoid… but here, let’s say Erza made a little discovery. The lightning which struck out of the storm clouds, they were always striking at the same place, at the same plains. If we say that he moved over to investigate…
Pokédex Entry #522 – Blitzle, the Electrified Pokémon. Its mane shines when it discharges electricity. They use the frequency and rhythm of these flashes to communicate. They gather where storm-clouds go, catching the lightning strikes with their horns like lightning rods in order to charge themselves.
A flock of Blitzles had appeared, collecting the lightning as it struck down at them to their horns, and they jumped about newly charged with electricity and looking rather pleased with themselves. So, would Erza do anything here?
1. Find Pokémon. Can be specified what kind of Pokémon is being searched for, and how you search. 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Seek trainers. There should be some trainers among those walking back and forth in the area. 4. Talk. There’s plenty of travellers around. 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: Explore Buildings. There’s abandoned buildings. Why not have a look?
Connected areas: Redcoast City. Right behind you. Rainrock City. Requires crossing Route 11, but it’s a pretty well-travelled and safe road. Route 12. Requires crossing Route 11 on the way north, also pretty well-travelled. Pokéball Factory. A turn east on the path north should bring you there.
‘Aegi…!’ the golden sword and shield remarked, anger in the tone.
‘I don’t need a human to speak to me about working together!’ the young man shouted back, anger in his tone as well. ‘That woman. The one the spirits fear. She opened the seal we were locked in by so long ago, and then departed without a word. Her motives are a mystery, but I have to seize this chance. The prison that wretched god sealed us inside, for crimes we had not committed! For human superstition and misgivings! For so many years after that, humans visited the tomb… to look at us. Just look at us! Never to free us! Never lifting a finger to help, just inspecting, just researching us! And I should… negotiate peace… with them…!?’
‘Ae… Aegigigigigigigig…!’ ‘Hah… hahahahahahaha…!’
The human and the Pokémon laughed in chorus, the sound of their voices echoing in an eerie fashion against the walls of the tomb, the sound of it spreading to surrounding Pokémon under Aegislash’s control, who were turning towards the tomb all around.
‘Fine… perhaps we will,’ the young man said, a touch of amusement in his voice. The Bronzor floated in to float in mid-air beside the young man and the Aegislash. ‘Let us put you to sleep. Then, as you dream, you will get to speak to my master. Convince him, and all of this will end. But should you fail, you might just end up not waking up…’ so the young man cautioned/threatened, his voice taking something of ghastly amusement into his tone, as Bronzor started to spin a bit, preparing to potentially use Hypnosis.
Cofagrigus and Gengar threw looks at Amelia and Dawkin, as well as the newly arrived Greninja who had no frickin’ problem blowing past a couple level 8-10 grunts. It was up to them, ultimately.
Eryn hurried forward, getting deeper and deeper into the woods. There were sounds all about, living creatures crawling within the very aptly named Infested Woods. There were bugs, bugs and more bugs around. She couldn’t find any ghosts yet, but honestly this place was so spooky in the dark that it wouldn’t really seem that out-of-place. She headed onwards, dodging Spinaraks and Scatterbugs, hoping she wouldn’t have to dodge anything else as she followed Dei’s little flame…
And suddenly it felt like she had a thousand eyes upon her. Her Pokémon might notice it before she did. To her immediate left was a huge tree that was absolutely littered with black, white and red eyes, all focused on her. As she refocused to perhaps identify what they were… they were some of the most common bugs in the entire world. The whole family tree. The green little larva, the even greener cocoons and the debatably beautiful butterflies they one day grew to become.
Pokédex Entry #10 – Caterpie, the Worm Pokémon. It has a great appetite and eats green leaves larger than itself. Its feet has suction cups allowing it to climb on any surface. If attacked, it can release a stench from its antenna to ward off attackers. It is known to grow fast, and will create a cocoon out of silk for itself to evolve.
Pokédex Entry #11 – Metapod, the Cocoon Pokémon. Caterpie encloses itself in a shell as it prepares for its final evolution. The shell is normally soft and tender, but can quickly harden to the toughness of an iron slab. To avoid damage it doesn’t move, simply enduring hardships while awaiting evolution.
Pokédex Entry #12 – Butterfree, the Butterfly Pokémon. It loves honey and can locate flower patches that have even the tiniest amount of pollen. Its wings are covered in a toxic rain-repellant dust, which allows it to fly even through rain. Should it be endangered, it will flap its wings at the offender, scattering the toxic dust.
They didn’t look very threatening, only plentiful. They most certainly didn’t usually count among the bugs that one would normally classify as the most dangerous of the lot. … That is, before she saw the view and heard the sound of what probably felt like the wings of a hundred Butterfrees taking off simultaneously and scattering above her, releasing a thick fog of green, yellow and purple mist. An absolute wall of Poison, Stun and Sleep powder was descending at her and her Pokémon in an uneven mix, and the Butterfrees looked to be more than willing to spin about to shower her with a round two if the first didn’t do its job, the horde of butterflies engaging Eryn in the midst of this dark woods.
Amelia and Dawkin advances into the chamber. It’s a tomb, with all its looming walls and creepy beings. Most of the forces had left by now, leaving but a supplementary force of a three Goletts, two Honedges and one Bronzor behind. However, they quickly parted ways because there were two powerful Pokémon leading the charge, Cofagrigus and Gengar. On the other side of the two great Golurks standing on either side of the opening, the young man with the Aegislash floating above him had just been about to walk back through the opening to do who knows what, but stopped when all of a sudden a new crowd of guests were arriving. He threw a slow look backwards as Amelia spoke up, seeking an audience.
A young man, looking like a normal traveller in his own right. Yet, he stood with a purpose, now turning to face them with an expression devoid of emotion. Behind him floated the Aegislash, glaring over his head at them. The two Golurks stood ready for battle, the one on the left standing with fists closed lightly leaned forward like preparing to charge while the one to the right lightly scratched its chest before also preparing, just in case. The human of them spoke.
‘Your words are irrelevant,’ said the young man. ‘We only need to gather energy enough so it will suffice for a short while. After that, the game will be set to begin in earnest…’ … So he said.
That’s when a voice made itself known, inside both Amelia and Dawkin’s heads.
Do not be fooled! … It was the voice of the young eyepatched girl that had advanced first.
The one before you is a diversion! The master awaits far behind this room, if you exit to either to the left or right and head behind this room! That is, down the right on the map.
The sleeping minds of those behind the Aegislash powers something, but the source isn’t here! This is merely the fuel, the engine awaits further in! You can-
This is where the message suddenly cut, along with a wave of power from Aegislash. Amelia would recognize it. The message had been sent with “spectral power”, the same one Amelia’s able to sense from ghosts around her… and also the same one Aegislash was using to control the ghosts. In fact, she could feel Aegislash and his master was currently focusing on the two powerful ghosts that Amelia and Dawkin had brought with them, trying to spread their influence…
Pokédex Entry #681 – Aegislash, the Royal Sword Pokémon. Generations of kings were attended by these Pokémon, which used their spectral power to manipulate and control people and Pokémon. Apparently, it can detect the innate qualities of leadership. According to legend, whoever it recognizes is destined to become king.
‘Hmpf, how trivial. Why have you come?’ the young man before the Aegislash asked.
Cofagrigus and Gengar are totally prepared to make a move and bust some exes. Amelia just started talking first. They're ready to start moving at a moment's notice, or at anyone's direction.
… Meanwhile, Joshua sealed the opening with a combination of water and ice. It was extremely effective, keeping the ghosts at bay. Still, now that we’ve set up these circumstances, the ghosts were free to multiply their numbers as the next coming waves banded together, wishing to break through… eventually. There were walls of ice to break through, all of a sudden.
Holding up the egg into the air in Silent Forest caused a couple Flabébés to float close and inspect it, curious little fairies inspecting the yet-to-be-born Pokémon. Still, that time passed eventually and it was time to train.
Erza and Eevee trained. This time they could train against Flabébés, too. Seeing how the fairies had better special stats than physical ones, Adaptability did heavy damage to them and Eevee just had to watch for Fairy Winds in return. It went decently well! Eevee could dodge and then attack back numerous times for good measure.
Eevee grew to level 8!
He did get pretty damaged to get to level 8, however. Still, a good effort.
As they trained and advanced, they had an… extremely simple walk in the forest. It rained on them, and they continued walking through the somewhat lantern-lit forest, and nothing happened. Just accompanied by the ever-present silence of the Silent Forest… (You rolled terribly on the “something happening” roll, be it bad or good for you, hah.)
Eventually…
Route 11
To Erza, he emerged from the trees of Silent Forest onto a route where the sky was breaking open, the sun finally looking down on the roads below…
Those heading to Route 11 by any other route than from Rainrock may receive a warning of the weather conditions by the clouds gathering overhead to release before climbing over Mt. Strength. Route 11 is comprised mainly of one big road leading in-between Rainrock City and Redcoast City, two cities with very close ties and bonds due to many reasons. Aside from the main road there are farmlands below as well as plenty of small patches of forests and plains around, all under the spotty clouds that sometimes shower the area in a blanket of light rain, sometimes shine down with a hopeful sun through the cracks in the sky but mostly both at the same time.
Route 11 is somewhat of a crossroad. To the east lies Rainrock City, and the path there leads on an incline to the high altitude of the mountain-laid city from the coastal Redcoast City in the west. Should one decide that one does not wish to head in either direction, the path north to Route 12 exists and is considered the main road to bigger places like Bigfjord or Worldedge City or perhaps out over the seas of Route 27. Route 11 is also fairly known for a high amount of abandoned buildings, as those who lived in them moved to neighboring cities in recent times. They stand, looming, free to explore for those who rejoices in emptiness. But, one famous building that perhaps isn’t as abandoned is the Pokéball Factory in the north-east, just off-road in the direction of Route 12.
The route is decently well-trafficked, with trainers and others coming down from Route 12 to Rainrock or Redcoast or onwards, and as such trainers might want to stay off the main road. Plenty of side-roads, though. Due to the rains many hurry past these terrains… but perhaps they’re missing out on a few rare Pokémon in the process?
So, what would Erza do from here?
Pokédex Entry #263 – Zigzagoon, the Tiny Racoon Pokémon. An exceedingly curious Pokémon which walks in a zig-zag pattern with its nose in the ground. It is skilled at finding items people have left around. It rubs its hard back hair against trees to leave territorial markings.
Pokédex Entry #519 – Pidove, the Tiny Pigeon Pokémon. They’re very accustomed to people and flock around cities and parks. They harbour no fear of people and can be very noisy. They’re very forgetful, and is one of few Pokémon that might not understand a trainer’s orders when given one.
Pokédex Entry #406 – Budew, the Bud Pokémon. It is sensitive to changing temperature. In winter it closes its bud and endures, while in summer it blooms and releases its pollen. This pollen is mildly poisonous and can cause harsh sneezing. It lives near clear ponds.
1. Find Pokémon. Can be specified what kind of Pokémon is being searched for, and how you search. 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Seek trainers. There should be some trainers among those walking back and forth in the area. 4. Talk. There’s plenty of travellers around. 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: Explore Buildings. There’s abandoned buildings. Why not have a look?
Connected areas: Redcoast City. To the west. A pretty straight road. Rainrock City. To the east. Requires a bit of a climbing road. Route 12. Requires crossing Route 11 on the way north, also pretty well-traveled. Pokéball Factory. A turn east on the path north should bring you there.
‘Huh?’ Eryn found a bug-catcher who turned and looked at her in surprise at being spoken to. However, when she asked her question he smiled, ready to tell her what he knew. ‘Oooh, that’s the Illumise! See, the Volbeats love the smell the Illumise scatters, so they guide the Volbeats into position with their scent to draw shapes in the sky! We don’t really know why they do it, but it seems to entertain them and it gives us a good show, too!’ the bug-catcher told, enthusiastic on the subject. Then, there was the matter of heading deeper into the woods…
‘Eh,’ The boy started by looking surprised at her. ‘Er, no, we’re not heading in there at night! It gets really dark, and waaay too scary… Ghosts? I-I haven’t heard anything about any ghosts in Infested Woods, there’s enough bug-Pokémon to go around! It’s dangerous in there at night! The warden always tells us not to go in there this late…!’ … He took a moment to consider. ‘… Though, she does. As far as I can tell, she lives in there, somewhere. Huh. … Well, guess she’s an experienced trainer, so she’d be safer than we kids would be…’
Still, no expeditions deeper into Infested Woods during the night. Seeing how she apparently wanted to find a Ghost-type, suppose that means she’s heading in on her own?
True Infested Woods
The woods grow tighter and tighter, until vegetation became the most prominent existence. With every step you had to wave some form of plant or another out of your way, any perceived paths were most likely an illusion. Small ponds existed here and there, as if inviting anyone to misstep and fall in. The open areas of the Outer Infested Woods was gone, the lights of the Volbeats was gone, and here fell a certain darkness that threw a dreary tone over the entire woods. In the distance, sounds of impacts of something fighting could be heard, surely sending chills through any traveler as otherwise the woods became very silent, countless tiny predators undoubtedly lying in wait.
In this darkness, now probably only with Del’s light to guide the way, Eryn had a new and much more hostile world to attempt maneuvering… and she immediately almost walked into the barely visible spider webs of Spinarak. She also had to watch where she put her feet lest she might accidentally step too close to a Scatterbug and have her leg doused in poisonous powder. For there were more than a little of both in these tight woods.
Pokédex Entry #167 – Spinarak, the String Spit Pokémon. It weaves traps of web in fine but durable silk, and then waits for days upon end for prey to be captured. Its webs are connected to its nerves, letting it know exactly what has been caught. Its web is used for fishing lines.
Pokédex Entry #664 – Scatterbug, the Scatterdust Pokémon. Using a dust which covers its body and regulates its body-temperature, it can live in any region or climate. If attacked, it can release a poisonous black powder which paralyzes upon contact.
Now, then. No sign of ghosts yet. What would she do in here?
1. Find Pokémon. Can be specified what kind of Pokémon is being searched for, and how you search. 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. Beware doing it in areas above your level, though. Haha. 3. Seek trainers. There could be some, even out here, in the tightest of woods. 4. Talk. … The darkness might just answer. Otherwise, you’d have to find a trainer first. 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. Like, if you want to flee back. Haha. 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. Laurinda would not appreciate it. 9. Area Specific: Delve deeper. There’s something that is deeper than True Infested Woods. Does she want to head there? 10. Area Specific: Sounds of fighting. There are violent sounds in the woods. You could investigate on your own if you want to.
Connected areas: Outer Infested Woods. Behind you. Always possible to flee.
‘God, damn it,’ Sheila cursed, watching Mire leave. Realizing she was hearing her own uncovered voice she quickly readjusted her mask to return to the usual Creep. ‘Salem! Get the first-floor first-aid-kit! MELT your way to it if you so have to!’ she told, while gravitating forward to help Swarm probably to the ground and help try to keep the wound from bleeding too much… only to find that Firefly had started cauterizing the wound himself with light-power shenanigans, making Creep’s efforts redundant. Regardless, she’d stay around. She couldn’t apologize, but she could stay around until Salem brought the kit in any case. It worried her that the heroes might move against them after Mire’s attack, but then she noted the two had vanished. Huh. … Regardless, she had more important things to focus on.
While she was waiting she phoned the lieutenant that sent her the message. She had a very simple message to him. ‘Joaquin, take command! Help the evacuation! Also, Judy and Ralph are unconscious in front of the HQ, send someone to pick them up! We capes will be heading to the PRT meeting to confront the Endbringer, so I’m counting on you to handle things on the team for now! Understood!?’ … Endbringer. She said the word. A bringer of the end. Oh, god. Why was this happening? … Viola. She had to call Viola.
After making sure that Swarm was getting treated and Joaquin had his instructions (probably more than those written down), Creep excused herself saying she had to make a call and left the immediate vicinity. On her phone, she called Viola, pulling down her mask again to speak with her normal voice. Viola answered almost instantly.
‘That took longer than I thought,’ Viola told on the other end, sounding strangely calm.
‘Listen up,’ Sheila commanded, no small talk today. ‘I want you out of town. Get as far away from Denver as you-’
‘No way, nuh-uh. I’ve decided. I’m helping.’
Darn. This was getting worse and worse. The mere thought of Viola helping against an Endbringer, getting hurt… It was light a tight fist gripping around her heart, threatening to crush her.
‘I-I won’t have a discussion about this!’ Sheila said, normally able to control her sister but realizing she didn’t have the ammunition for it this time. ‘If I die, then I need you to-’
‘No way! This time, I’m doing what I want!’ Viola shouted back. ‘And please, I don’t want this conversation to end with us shouting at each other!’
Sheila wavered. She could see it. One of them dying, and their last memory being them arguing on the phone. That was… that wasn’t it. Viola had thought that far ahead? … Sheila’s eyes watered, grip tightening on the phone. That would- that would be horrible…
‘Thank you, sis. I have a really good power! I’ll be able to help lots of people! Besides, you’re going, aren’t you?’ Viola asked. Sheila swallowed. Of course she was going, that was natural…
‘Then I’m going too. I can’t have you facing this beast on your own. I’ll be fine. I’m really fast, you know? So, I’ll see you there!’ Viola told.
‘Y-you fool…’ Sheila sighed, accepting her sister’s demands. ‘I’ll be going as a villain, so don’t talk to me. I don’t want you talking to villains. I don’t want our connection to be found out like that…’
‘Uh-huh. You’re going as your darker self, then? Not your bright one?’ Viola asked.
Sheila stopped short, eyes widening a bit. She had naturally assumed she’d be going as Creep, she’d been so frozen. It’d be a boon to the Rockers, not to mention Creep not going could be used against her… but what could Creep really do? Illusions. Hide herself. It was… useless against an Endbringer. She’d make no difference. As Wisp, however… she was still useless against an Endbringer. That said, by not holding back her powers she could point towards key locations with light, and… she wasn’t sure what she could do, but it surely was more than Creep would be able to do. Unlike with Creep, someone there might come up with an intuitive way to use her. But, if she did that, then Creep might be accused of having opted out to save her own skin…?
‘Oh? Well, I’ll leave you to figure that one out. Take care of yourself,’ Viola told her sister.
‘… Same to you. Listen to their commands, don’t make rash decisions. And… all of that…’ Sheila had to keep herself from sobbing, thinking of Viola fighting again.
‘Hey, sis. I’ll be fine. It’s nothing compared to what you’ve been doing, taking on all the villains of Denver every day,’ Viola tried to sound encouraging.
‘… Hah, this is nothing alike... ’ Sheila made herself smile, despite everything.
‘… I’ll see you after,’ Viola told, and Sheila had to breathe in to answer clearly.
‘We will. Take care,’ Sheila finished.
‘You too!’
And with that, Viola ended the call. Sheila still felt that hand around her heart threatening to make her crush her with worry. But… she had to go, didn’t she? And she’d go as…
Creep put her mask back on, and then went to check on the rest. She recovered Salem, and then spent a small bit of time seeing if they could find any survivors from the building or find Pester. She then attempted calling Visage and Mire as well as Pester, probably uselessly. If any of them answered, the message would simply be that Creep wanted them to support Denver during this Endbringer event, please head to the PRT building. After that, they headed on.
When they had come away from Swarm and Firefly, Creep spun around to (probably only) Salem. ‘I want you to represent the Rockers at the PRT meeting. I’ll be there… but not as Creep. It’s complicated… but please accept this for now.’ And with that said, she vanished from the streets and ran for home.
At home she quickly changed into her Wisp costume. Speedrunner had already left. She switched to her white jumper and pants, which really just was white regular clothes, if somewhat tight to prevent sounds and accidentally sticking to things. She equipped her laser-goggles as well as a little bag to keep her equipment. This included multiple laser-pointers of varying strength, a strong flashlight, a knife and some bandage, just in case. This, plus both phones, both to the Rockers and her regular one. After hesitating she also put Creep’s voice changer in there, resolving nobody would look through her things at an Endbringer event so she can still pretend to be Creep over the phone if so needed. It was risky, but this was a bloody Endbringer event, it’d have to be risky. Wisp made herself invisible and headed off.
Wisp
Sheila Hopkins
PRT Building
Speedrunner had arrived fairly early. She’d been quick to get ready for battle, and then arrived pretty quickly because of her power, and would then be eager to tell someone about her power because she’s really useful~!
Salem should arrive at some point later, assuming nothing else stopped him. In the unlikely event they found Pester in a functioning condition, suppose him too.
Wisp arrived almost late, due to the detour home she had to make. However, after having crossed the city invisible, she approached the great building. It was a great building, one she had often thought about since becoming a cape… this was not how she had imagined approaching it. Time to show herself as the one she had wanted to be, for the first time ever.
Wisp let her invisibility fall, showing herself as she was, a little girl in white wearing laser goggles. One nobody there had ever seen. … She created her little wisp, letting the little white flame lazily circle her. That… that should tell them who she is. With that one, Wisp summoned her courage, and headed into the crowd. Would probably be standing alone for now, using her power to look in all directions and see ALL the heroes gathered, and wondering if she was supposed to tell someone about her powers.
Celebrity wandered over, leaving Vivia and Venonat sleeping soundly on the forest floor…
In any case! Battle time! Paradise VS Budew!
‘Type-advantage, eh,’ Earl smirked a bit. ‘Okay, time for a test,’ Earl remarked, before taking out a potion and handing it to Budew, who drank it so happily…
Earl used Volt Tackle Potion! Electric-type was added to Budew! Budew’s Defense harshly fell! Budew’s Special Defense fell! Budew was Paralyzed! Budew became Confused! Budew learned Volt Tackle Imitation!
‘Budeeeeeeeew…!’ Budew spun a bit on the spot due to the horrific taste, not to mention all the other effects that happened from the yellow substance it had to experience. Regardless, it not spun to face Paradise, who just finished up the Growth she had charged. A bolt of electricity arced around the Budew that most assuredly shouldn’t be an electric-type.
‘That should equal it out… a little,’ Earl considered. ‘Hm, I still have some things to work on,’ he commented looking at his dizzy and paralyzed Pokémon. ‘Eh, regardless. Budew, Volt Tackle!’ Earl smirked as he commanded.
‘BuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuUUUUUUD!’ And Budew charged electricity to charge…! … Except due to Paralyzation, Paradise blew out her Gust first, causing Budew to stumble. But then Budew was away, storming forth as an electric bolt intent on doing a Volt Tackle Imitation! … And promptly ran headfirst into a tree! Budew hurt itself in its confusion! Then Paradise could do another Gust, and Budew promptly fainted. Budew lost the electric sparks upon fainting. It forgot Volt Tackle Imitation.
‘Hm. Well. Yeah,’ Earl remarked. ‘There are a few tweaks I need ironed out. Oh, well. Suppose I’m better off battling normally for now.’
With that, he does have a couple more Pokémon…
Pokédex Entry #605 – Elgyem, the Celebral Pokémon. A mysterious Pokémon that only appeared around half-a-decade ago, theorized to be linked with a UFO said to have been seen crashing into the deserts of Unova. However, they appeared around Mt. Edge in Isson at around the same time. Usually friendly, they’re known to squeeze the brains of attackers with psychic power, causing terrible headaches.
Despite saying he’ll fight normally, he starts by using Spec Herbs, increasing Elgyem’s Special Attack while severely lowering Attack. Then he’s going to just spam Confusion.
Pokédex Entry #104 – Cubone, the Lonely Pokémon. Each Cubone is under the impression its mother is dead and it wears her skull over its head, despite the ridiculous ramifications had this been true. As it never removes the skull (and is apparently born with it), it is said nobody has seen its face. When alone, it cries loudly and makes the skull rattle.
He’ll start with Att Herbs, which boosts Attack but severely lowers Special Attack… but also put Cubone to sleep. That didn’t make any difference, though, because Cubone woke up immediately after and will then go in for the Bone Club attack. … That is, unless Cubone is fighting Seabreeze, in which case Earl will shrug and use another Volt Tackle Potion first and then command multiple Volt Tackles.
Claire got a curious look from Archie before she ran off.
In any case. Later she heads off towards Mountain Valley.
Mountain Valley
Pressed in between Mt. Strength and Mt. Chill, the Mountain Valley are a set of highlands that someone decided to make a thin but traversable road that can be travested by walking. At the edge between where it’d be too cold to climb due to cold, this mountainous region is filled with green hills with plenty of grass and plenty of winds. Here, many bird-Pokémon enjoys floating on the winds or eating small bugs in the many botches of grass around in this area reasonably untouched by human hands. In the north, the jagged peaks of Mt. Strength looms, but to the south the far taller frozen mountain range of Mt. Chill towers above… but that doesn’t affect those who travel this windy road right now.
There’s plenty of bird Pokémon about, but they aren’t the only ones around. Here’s a few of the most common about.
Pokédex Entry #16 – Pidgey, the Tiny Bird Pokémon. They are docile Pokémon that avoid fighting, kicking up sand in an enemy’s face or using Whirlwind to avoid battles. They have sharp senses of direction, capable of finding their nest or destination from very large distances. They inhabit tall grass where they search and prey on small bugs.
Pokédex Entry #21 – Spearow, the Tiny Bird Pokémon. It eats bugs in grassy areas. It cannot fly very high, but uses its wings to blow insects out of grass for easy pickings. It’s very territorial, and its reckless nature means it will stand up to even far tougher opponents to defend its claim. It has a loud cry it uses to warn other of its kind of danger.
Pokédex Entry #276 – Taillow, the Tiny Swallow Pokémon. Many Taillows are young, just leaving the nest, and may cry in loneliness at night. It feeds off bugs and crops in forests and plains. It’s a very gutsy Pokémon, known to bravely take on tough foes. It likes warmer climates and will migrate during cold seasons.
Other than birds, the landside is absolutely teeming with goats. Or, that is, Skiddos.
Pokédex Entry #672 – Skiddo, the Mount Pokémon. It is believed to be one of the first Pokémon to start living with humans in harmony. It is known to have a placid disposition, and only really battle if used by a trainer. If it has sunshine and water, it doesn’t need to eat, because it can generate the energy it needs to survive from the leaves on its back.
So. What will Claire do here?
1. Find Pokémon. Can be specified what kind of Pokémon is being searched for, and how you search. 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Seek trainers. Though most people around here seems to just be people enjoying the view together or alone. 4. Talk. There are some people around, enjoying the evening in the woods. Maybe speak with them if you want. 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: Climb. Not the recommended path onto Mt. Strength, but it looks like you could theoretically climb with the right tools. Mt. Chill is way too steep, though.
Connected areas: Stillwood Village. A village hidden inside a forest, connected by the Mountain Valley road. Route 10. The farmlands feeding Worldedge City awaits to the east, giving a mystic feeling.
Qwerty was totally winning, but regardless Valen’s fears won over and he ran off. Growlithe, satisfied at having fought off the invader, let off a proud growl and let him get away. Got away successfully!
… And then he ran across the entire route, possibly making other trainers wonder what he was fleeing from with such terror on Route 1. He may have caused a rumor claiming the ferocious beast that was once known to wander the plains of Pureplain had returned, albeit nobody could confirm to have seen it… Regardless, nobody stopped him and eventually…
Highhill Town
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.
So, what will Valen do here?
1. Find Pokémon. Can still search for Pokémon in towns~ 2. Talk. In cities and towns, 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.
The fisherman was about to answer, closing his eyes and opening his mouth wide, but Eryn stopped him. He then looked at her quizzically, but as it turned out she had made her decision. Instead, he gave a light smirk and refocused on the water. Swampert was continuing to attempt resting while Vaporeon was gazing at Eryn and her little, now one Pokémon larger, gang.
Magikarp was caught!
Gender: ♀ Type: Water Personality: (Up to player.) Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.) Level: 5 Moves: Splash Ability: Rattled. Boosts speed if hit by a Dark, Bug or Ghost-type move. Held Item: None.
New Pokémon caught! Eryn earned 500 P!
Would you like to give a nickname to Magikarp?
And yes, she did.
A note on water-only Pokémon. In order to make them not extremely circumstantial to use, upon exiting their Pokéballs they’re surrounded a small bubble of water that floats in mid-air and allow them to swim about over solid ground. This bubble only interacts with the water-Pokémon itself, meaning it doesn’t protect them from physical harm and they can’t suffocate anyone in the bubble. They can only hover a reasonable height from the ground, preventing them from flying over ground-based Pokémon. This is all for the convenience to be able to use them in proper battles.
Eryn offered the rod back to the fisherman.
‘Huff. You’re free to have it if you want, we have lots of extra to give to possible fishing enthusiasts. But if you feel it’ll only take up space, I can take it back,’ he replied, and would take the rod if Eryn was still set on giving it back after that, otherwise he’d let her have it. He’d then raise an eyebrow at that she apparently wanted his contact info, somewhat surprised.
‘Huh. Alright. I’m Darryl, and I’m most commonly found… just about here and Pureplain, if you want to find me. Sometimes I go on trips to the oceans of Fairsea, but that’s about it,’ he told her, handing over his contact information. After that, they said their goodbyes, Darryl wishing her good luck on her journey, Swampert grunting something and Vaporeon giving a bit of a happy call that translated to “thanks for making the evening slightly interesting”. With that, Eryn moved on towards the Infested Woods.
The Infested Woods loomed ahead, the trees tight and between all the dark trees in the night she could see… light?
Outer Infested Woods
The woods glows. Despite being in the dead of night, the contents of this wood is positively glittering. Almost everywhere you look, there are shining lights swirling around the trees, flowing along the winds of the woods. It’s a bright dance of yellow light that encompasses everything forwards, shielding the woods from being peeked further into.
The floors of the woods are naturally wet, the waters of the Dragon Lake flowing south and nourishing the woods, giving plenty in the kind of water needed to sustain the woods, and the puddles are excellent for the breeding of bugs. That is the kind of world you’ve stepped into.
Pokédex Entry #314 – Illumise, the Firefly Pokémon. They draw complex patterns in the night sky using Volbeats by attracting them with their sweet aroma, and use this to gain respect among other Illumise. For every Illumise, there’s usually a swarm of Volbeats right behind.
Pokédex Entry #313 – Volbeat, the Firefly Pokémon. Volbeats live in forested areas with supplies of clean water. Their tails light up in the dark or during the night to communicate, and are known to draw geometric shapes in the night sky. They're attracted to Illumise's sweet aroma.
So, there’s a metric tonne of Volbeats flying in every perceivable direction, which is the source of this light. One could see where the sweet aroma of Illumise could be smelled in the air as the swarms flew steadily in those directions, before circling back. They were so many, it made the lights shine in numbers enough that one barely saw anything other than the moving lights, causing the woods to glow.
You’re not alone. There are quite a few humans that have gathered here, from Bug Catchers with a more simple quests of catching bug-Pokémon to common people or couples that came here entirely to see the light-show that the Pokémon were conducting. A few Illumise were competing with one another having their Volbeats create patterns, of spheres, triangles, spheres with triangles sticking out around like a sun in the night sky, formed like a large human in the sky or like star signs created on whims. It was quite the display, and on the ground it was accompanied by the music of Kricketots hitting their antenna together, causing it to sound like a gentle orchestra of xylophones. Humans sat around smiling at the skies with each other’s company just to experience this spectacle of sound and sight around small campfires to keep warm.
There’s a hut standing here, on the outskirts of the woods. There’s a sign on the outside saying “We’ll heal your Pokémon for 100 P!”. … Yupp, that’s here.
This is the more recreational part of Infested Woods, the safer part that new trainers was recommended to stick to. Going further in would lead to True Infested Woods, as per what Eryn in the library earlier. Now, she could just move past here into the wilder forest, but perhaps she wanted something here, too?
Pokédex Entry #10 – Caterpie, the Worm Pokémon. It has a great appetite and eats green leaves larger than itself. Its feet has suction cups allowing it to climb on any surface. If attacked, it can release a stench from its antenna to ward off attackers. It is known to grow fast, and will create a cocoon out of silk for itself to evolve.
Pokédex Entry #265 – Wurmple, the Worm Pokémon. It lives in tall grass and inside forests. Using the spikes on its rear end, it peels off the bark from trees and eats the sap that oozes out. Often the target of bird-Pokémon, it defends itself with poison released from its spikes.
Pokédex Entry #401 – Kricketot, the Cricket Pokémon. It shakes its head back and forth, causing its antenna to hit each other and sound like a xylophone. It chats with other Kricketots this way, and also accidentally make the sound when they stumble on their short legs. They’re the most active during and are associated with fall.
1. Find Pokémon. Can be specified what kind of Pokémon is being searched for, and how you search. 2. Train Pokémon. With this command, we can jump ahead in time and skip posting about grinding. 3. Seek trainers. Though most people around here seems to just be people enjoying the view together or alone. 4. Talk. There are some people around, enjoying the evening in the woods. Maybe speak with them if you want. 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: Heal at the hut (100p). It’s still open at night! 24 hour support! 10. Area Specific: Delve Deeper. What might await in the deeper regions of the woods…? 11. Area Specific: Enjoy the Show. Might not serve much purpose, but… It’s a spectacle, isn’t it?
Connected areas: Route 2. Close, can easily get there without complication. Wet Caverns. Requires a bit of a walk alongside the outer regions of the woods.
Erza started training Growlithe and luckily started out fighting two Bellsprouts, who only had Vine Whip to defend themselves against Growlithe… but then he tried against a Shroomish and got instantly paralyzed by a Stun Spore. After a tackling and biting contest Growlithe was still victorious, though he took some considerable damage and is paralyzed. However, he got something for the effort.
Growlithe grew to level 7! Growlithe learned Ember!
… Hm? There’s something on the ground here, that Erza just happened to walk past during the visit to the forest. It’s a…?
Erza obtained a Shiny Stone!
Curious thing to just find on the forest floor. Regardless. What’s his next action?
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…?
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.
@prettydrops Nicely posted. Though, this is a regular encounter right now. I'm not intending on spicing it up particularly. So, what'll they do?
@Gardevoiran Your Celebrity rolled pretty good on her sing-roll. Hahahaha. In any case. Nicely posted. Do you want to do this battle the faster way or the really slow way? Hahaha.
@Eklispe@Joshua Tamashii I started typing and then I realized I needed your input. So, er. What do you do?
@Rune_Alchemist Nope, Archie does not understand. In any case. Nicely posted. I will say we'll probably speed up any rematch so you don't have to fight through it all like that again! ... Unless you want to, I suppose!
@Lo Welcome back, heh. Nicely posted. In any case. There's north Silent Forest and south Silent Forest. You didn't specify, because I didn't really show you that it was an option, so I picked one.
@Dusksong Happy to see you post again! You worried me there for a bit, hah. Nicely posted. Have a little talk.
Qwerty used Conversion2! Qwerty transformed into the Fire type!
With that, Qwerty hunted out after the Growlithe. She unleashed a Psybeam, which hit the puppy Pokémon straight on. Because of a combination of higher level and a pretty powerful move Growlithe took the majority of its health from the blow, frowning and looking back at Qwerty.
‘… Rowl!’ Growlithe returned it by sending another Ember back, which impacted Qwerty! But, due to Conversion2, this time it was not very effective! Qwerty took only a small amount of damage and was in a good state to counter, or whatever she wanted to do!
That is, Qwerty is most assuredly winning this fight like this. What’s Qwerty and Valen’s course of action?
‘Heh,’ Earl gave the slightest of a smile. ‘I have tried that already. However, I am up for trying it again… on the ground,’ Earl said.
They probably eventually get down to the ground, and Earl brought with him one of the Beduws, which he then lobbed forward at something that resembled a bunch of grass that could be fought on.
‘Alright, let’s do this,’ … After Seabreeze had woken up.
Herbalist Earl wants to fight!
‘I’ll start with Budew,’ Earl says, gesturing to his Pokémon.
Pokédex Entry #406 – Budew, the Bud Pokémon. It is sensitive to changing temperature. In winter it closes its bud and endures, while in summer it blooms and releases its pollen. This pollen is mildly poisonous and can cause harsh sneezing. It lives near clear ponds.
‘Budew!’
Yupp.
Meanwhile, Celebrity started singing to Venonat and Vivia.
'Wait, I-!' ‘Veno-!’
Both individuals sounded out somewhat in panic, before Celebrity’s song penetrated their ears, and… both promptly fell asleep, not fast enough to do anything to change their fates.
Venonat fell asleep! Vivia fell asleep!
Celebrity stands victorious by the sleeping forms of both the Venonat and the trainer. If this was the intention or not is up to Celebrity.
Gengar and Cofagrigus took a moment waiting for the army to pass, and then moved onwards. … It appears they’re intending on approaching the opponents head on. Does the two of them have better ideas?
Meanwhile. To outline the brief adventure of Joshua off-screen.
If he wanted a Sigilyph, he’d find one. They’re Uncommon down here, but spend long enough and you will run into one.
As for saving the young girl’s father, that probably went off without a hitch. The question then was if he was then sent to find more backup outside the base, if he proceeded to head deeper inside to attempt to save his daughter or if Joshua just brought him to the entrance or so.
Regardless, indeed. The thundering sound of quite a few Goletts marshing upon the exit is approaching, with Honedges and Bronzors floating along joining them in their endeavours… Will result in quite a battle quite soon.
‘… Eh? Why?’ Archie asked, his eyes wide and his expression one of utter confusion. Bellawesome as well looked over at her, looking surprised. Ramsey, however, shook his head a bit.
‘Young master, I bid you to accept the young lady’s decision. She has her pride as a Pokémon trainer, and you should respect it,’ Ramsey told, and Archie looked up at him, still with the expression of confusion.
‘I don’t… get it. But… okay,’ Archie said, sounding disappointed as he looked towards Bellawesome and Ralia. ‘Bellawesome,’
CHING
Ralia fainted!
‘Loss,’ After an exceedingly fast last swipe of her sword, Bellawesome made a similarly disappointed sound while letting her Leaf Blade blow off into the winds as regular leaves after she let go of it. She turned and returned towards Archie, who looked to Claire while still looking remarkably confused.
‘… I’ll expect you to come back, okay?’ Archie said, before turning around and dashing straight off the platform onto the sea of trees, joining the Pokémon he had been previously playing with. Meanwhile, Ramsey headed over to Claire.
‘May I escort you down, miss Claire?’
With the assumption she’d then head down and get her Pokémon healed…
Stillwood Village
Inside these calm forest lies a village completely in-tune with nature. The buildings are built around or in the trees of wood and stone, the light shining onto the village stifled by the great trees above. In the air, meeting your nose as soon as you tread into the village, is filled to the brim with the smell of forest and spores. It’s a wild smell, but somehow it is extremely relaxing and any worries seem to be stifled before the calming village ahead where everyone is always so calm and happy, wild Pokémon walking freely on the roads of the place. This is Stillwood Village, the most relaxing place imaginable, it’s people in touch with nature and wishing the best to all those who come to their cozy and ancient little home.
Wild Grass Pokémon freely wander the streets, spreading their spores into the air which the townspeople actively walk through every single day. They are all smiles, very helpful, the entire village and all visitors afflicted by the relaxing sensations brought by the spores during their stay in Stillwood Village. However, these spores are the reason quite a few avoid Stillwood Village, arguing that it messes with one’s mind. It is extremely rare that a member of Stillwood Village moves out of the village, after all. It will also quickly become evident just how little the members of the village care about the world at large, all their worries gone by the relaxing spores and just continue living, no troubles in the slightest.
That’s Stillwood Village for you.
Budews, Roselias and Shroomish were above all the ones to blame for all the spores in the air, the relaxing smell and the effect that seemed to drain on a person’s worries entering the village. However, in the air drifted smaller beings.
Hoppips floated along the winds in Stillwood Village, and high above Skiplooms floated to catch the light heading down, further decreasing the amount of sunlight that actually touched the villagers treading about the village. Also walking about were…
Numerous Oddishes had apparently failed to understand that the relative dark was not due to night. That aside, the nice smell of the village was only occasionally interrupted by foul smell of a passing Gloom, but that problem seemed to only be bothering visitors as the villagers didn’t even seem to notice.
‘Hello, and welcome to the Pokémon Center. Would you like to rest your Pokémon?’
Assumingly, yes.
‘Okay. I’ll take your Pokémon for a few seconds, then.’
She’d then accept the Pokéballs and put them into the machine, and…
‘Thank you for waiting. We’ve restored your Pokémon to full health.’
She says as she hands the Pokéballs back. She then bows to her customer and gives a friendly smile.
‘We hope to see you again!’
Claire’s in Stillwood Village. What does she want to do now.
1. Find Pokémon. Can still search for Pokémon in cities~ 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 Places. Visit any of the places in the city! 6.1. Pokémon Center. Heal all your Pokémon. 6.2. PokéMart. Go to a store and buy things. 6.3. Pokémon Gym. Archie’s Grass-type Gym. 6.4. Herb Store. Selling bitter medicine that is very good for your Pokémon! 6.5. Flower Shop. For decoration and for pleasant smells, the flower shop has the best selection in Isson! 6.6. Berry Garden. Allows trainers to rent earth to plant their own berries. New trainers gets a kit to start them off! 6.7. Treehouse Arena. Even forest-people want to battle it out sometimes. Lots of berries as prices~ 6.8. Ancient Woods. An older part of the forest. Dangerous, but said to hold a link to the past. There are large old rocks here. What more could they hold?
Connected areas: Route 4. Forest route at the base of Mt. Strength leading west to Rainrock City. Route 5. A grassy incline connecting mountains, forests, plains, Stillwood and Lakewatch. Route 14. The waters of Dragon Lake are also known as Route 14. It connects Lakewatch Town, Highhill Town and Stillwood Village. Mountain Valley. A passage between Mt. Strength and Mt. Chill, a shortcut to Worldedge City.
Erza went by the two boys on their way out and then himself went to pray at the altar. He prayed for a thrilling adventure, perhaps the luck to run into some rare Pokémon and whatnot… Was that a glimmer of light from the idol? Nah, probably a trick of light.
Regardless, he was soon enough turning to head off into the Silent Forest proper. Within, he would find that the skies above darkened under the thickness of the crowns and the clouds gathering overhead. And then, rain fell upon his steps, as the forest before him lit up with mysterious light in the silence…
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.
Within here, three species of Pokémon are common enough to find anywhere. In the air, small fairies clutching flowers flew about…
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.
… And two kinds of small grass-type Pokémon made their home, Shroomishes and Bellsprouts enjoying the rainy forest.
Pokédex Entry #285 – Shroomish, the Mushroom Pokémon. It lives deep in dark, damp forest where it eats the composted soil and fallen leaves. By day it remains still in the forest shade, by night it moves to eat. If it detects danger, it can spout highly toxic spores from the top of its head, strong enough to make trees wilt.
Pokédex Entry #69 – Bellsprout, the Flower Pokémon. A carnivorous plant, it traps and eats bugs to eat. It can root itself deep into the ground to drink, or uproot itself to move. It’s skinny body is extremely flexible to avoid attacks, and its speed with its Vine Whips at prey are said to be blindingly fast. It loves hot and humid places.
So, what would Erza do from here?
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…?
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.
She got a few pointers from the fisherman who was clearly experienced in the art of giving fishing pointers and soon enough she got something into the water.
‘’Pert,’ Swampert simply replied to the question of if it had been a long day, looking pretty tired.
‘We went up extra late for this. Not that you’d see it by looking at this guy,’ the fisherman declared, pointing a thumb over at the Swampert. But, then there were the other questions.
‘Water-type, huh,’ the fisherman commented, pulling and throwing out his line again. ‘Then it depends mostly on what kind of water-type you want. This is freshwater, you’re not going to find any salt-water fish in this. The best fishing spots are actually around the middle of the lake, but the problem with fishing there is that your boat is going to be assaulted by Carvanhas, which isn’t pleasant. We’re all dreaming of the day we fish up a Feebas, but that ain’t happening,’ he said with a sigh.
‘Otherwise you should find some of them in Wet Caverns. If you’d rather have a sea-worthy fish, then suppose you’ll need to head north past Rainrock City until you finally reach a sea-route. Dragon-type, however. Yeah, they’re here. The Lakewatchers that patrol the lake will prevent you from catching them, though. They defend the dragons from poachers… as well as from everyone else, including trainers. That said, they murmur that there’s a place in Wet Caverns where a dragon might be caught without their supervision… dunno where it is, though,’ the fisherman shrugged and continued.
‘Wet Caverns and Infested Forest both work for training. If you find either too tough, you can always head back and head north via Route 1 instead, far easier. … Infested Forest is known to be a place for Bug-types, but some people claim they’ve seen ghosts in there, too. Heh, who knows? Might have just seen a shadow move or something. Eh, I dunno.’
‘Swaaamp,’ Swampert suddenly stated.
‘You’re about to have a bite,’ the fisherman translated.
If she pulled at this moment…!
Pokédex Entry #129 – Magikarp, the Fish Pokémon. While known for being extremely weak and washed away by even the weakest current, Magikarp can survive even in the most polluted of water. They’re incredibly fertile and have spread to waters all around the world. They jump fairly high, and older Magikarps are known to brave mountains with these jumps, seeking evolution.
… So, maybe not the most epic catch ever, but it’s a Magikarp that she could capture if she so felt like it. And yes, Magikarp lives in all waters.
A situation emerged. The two in the lobby had emerged. The archer finally appeared, and Creep finally recognized him. He was a former member of the Minutemen, she had seen him due to Viola being a fan of them. That, and another hero she recognized appeared. Guardian Angel, who had been sighted around Denver. They had fired on… that was Swarm, wasn’t it? Swarm and an ally. That meant they were not on the same side. Two possibilities. The two heroes had teamed up to take on the Rockers and Swarm had been there by coincidence… or they were there because they were attacking by orders of the Community. Either way, it didn’t really matter, all that mattered was that Mire pulled back-
The sirens rang. Sirens that Creep knew the meaning of, but had always assumed she would never have to hear them. No matter where in the world it would sound, it couldn’t be in her Denver. Her eyes widened, as she realized all which this meant. An Endbringer was coming… and she was in command of a gang that had the power to help. She had the power to help. Oh, god.
But before all of that.
Mire was clawing at her face, and Creep realized with a start what she was going to do. Creep panicked.
‘Mire! Stop!’ Creep shouted out, putting all the sharpness she could manage into her voice as she dropped all invisibility for the moment and stepping numerous steps forward. The mouth-mask and voice-changer she had over her mouth underneath her blindfold was blocking some of the sounds, and she wanted to shout as clearly as she could, so without thinking she gripped and pulled it down to shout the next part. ‘YOU’LL BE MARKED FOR DEATH!’
Of course, Mire wasn’t listening. That’s about as much Creep may have had time to do before everything else in the scene had to happen.
Xaltwind
Pirouette
Crimson Flame
Danyel
Mage
Noctis
Izurich
Damycles
jimapple
Zapdos
