PlatinumSkink

Pokémon: Start

@hatakekuro

Basil marched to Route 3! He followed the road down the hill that made up Highhill, to a sparsely covered forest-route going north. Above it, a great cloud loomed, ensuring that soon enough...

There was a street-stall right before the route that was selling umbrellas for 50 P apiece.

Descending to

Route 3

Route 3 is partly covered by the Silent Forest, but a path has been made through the trees for people travelling by the northern path from Rainrock down to Highhill and onto Pureplain. It is a fairly decently travelled road, as it’s the main road from Pureplain to the other cities of Isson. But, that doesn’t change that it’s almost constantly under a heavy downpour from the many clouds known to gather in the routes around Rainrock City. The atmosphere is constantly damp, thanks to the rainy weather. Chances are large that Pokémon preferring a rainy day will be found in this route.

While there’s likely a road for vehicles, the route for travellers is much different. With the proximity to Highhill, there’s actually a fair amount of hills in the area, and the route goes up and down. The path itself is fenced in with wooden fences and stairs up and down the hills, following those would lead to a fairly easy traversal to Rainrock City. But, step outside, and you’re officially in Silent Forest. The path is mostly cobblestone and stairs. The trees are mostly green with leaves but some blossom in pink or stranger colors. And of course, plenty of Pokémon if you just stray slightly from the road.

Due to the high amounts of rain and vegetation, few people live on this route, and besides the route itself there’s little in the ways of civilization. Just a very long, very wet route, with two splits. One near Highhill Town going deeper into the forest to the Silent Shrine, and one close to Rainrock east for those heading to Route 4 and Mt. Strength or Stillwood Village. Regardless… the rain will feel like it ends very suddenly, in either of those directions. But it has been like that for so long, people have just accepted it. “It rains on Route 3”, “water is wet”. And so, reality continues.

“DON’T LET YOUR CHILDREN HOLD DRIFLOONS!” - Sign at the entrance of Route 3. There are some Bellsprouts just outside the fence just rooted there looking around, and some Shroomishes resting or moving about with frowns on their faces.

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.

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.

To the east, eventually, Dragon Lake stretched out far, but here there was a bunch of thick forest hanging about at the water’s edge hanging out, and there was the constant downpour of rain from above. Floating in the water just outside were a couple Lotads…

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.

So, what would Basil like to do here?

Suggestions to actions

1. Find Pokémon. Feel free to specify searching for a specific kind, if so.
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 some travellers traveling along the rainy route. They can be talked to.
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.

Connected areas:
Rainrock City. Across the route, north.
Route 4. Head east just before Rainrock.
Silent Shrine. Head west just before Highhill, through the forest.
Highhill Town. Just south.
North Silent Forest. If you jump off the road west.
Route 14. If you went onto the water to the east.

Route 3, known Pokémon

Common:
#69 Bellsprout
#270 Lotad (in water)
#285 Shroomish

Uncommon:
#425 Drifloon
#455 Carnivine

Rare:
#252 Treecko
#704 Goomy

Darkest Before the Dawn: A CYOA Magical Girl Roleplay [Completed]

Oh, for f-

Geesh.

Pokémon: Start

@Rune_Alchemist

‘Do not worry, my darling!’ called the grunt disguised as a rich boy. ‘My Honedge and I will-’

Bagon used Bite! It’s Super Effective! Honedge fainted!

‘-immediately faint. Do not worry, darling! I believe in your victory!’

Gyarados attempted to Trash at Laurel, throwing the great weight of its tail at the little rock! … The sea serpent dramatically missed, breaching the wall and into some electrical wires, promptly shocking itself! Gyarados hurt itself in confusion!

Tez shot it with a Psywave! It did some damage!

Lure continued to Bug Bite Floette! It did very little damage, and the annoyed Floette replied with a full Fairy Wind, doing way more damage back, but Lure wasn't about to be knocked out in one shot! Wish was prevented for another turn!

Tauros did its job and Horn Attacked Servine, who replied with a Leaf Tornado! The Leaf Tornado had been meant for Laurel, but Tauros got in the way! Servine clearly did more damage, but was held up nonetheless!

Steelix shot some Rock Tomb at Zeal, because Steelix is severely missing Ground-type moves in its moveset. Zeal took some damage blocking the rocks, but not that much because Fighting-type made it neutral damage! Then, Laurel screamed at it again, and Monferno flew in to punch…

… And Monferno lands a Critical Hit on Steelix! The giant metal snake was blasted across the room and burst through numerous computers and things and broke through a wall, right next to a wide-eyed Cathia! Steelix fainted!

‘…!’ Cathia was now looking worried. Gyarados was hurt, Steelix was fainted, both Servine and Floette was being held up. She could command Azumarill to Bubblebeam the Monferno, which would equalize things, but she was taking way too much damage in the middle of the enemy base…

… Then someone walked past a corner behind Claire.

Ralia felt a sudden spike in fear from Cathia. Also, you know how the Ralts family tends to avoid bad people? Ralia was feeling that the individual showing up was someone to avoid. Cathia’s eyes darted between Claire and whoever was behind her.

‘Tsk, I can’t handle both of them…’ Cathia muttered, implying she felt she could handle any one of them on their own. ‘Azumarill, defend me!’ she commanded, and then reached out with her Pokéballs, beaming Steelix, Gyarados, Bagon and Servine back, while Floette flew back on her own.

‘I’ll have you know I still technically won, because I’m escaping with what I came for…!’ she said, stashing the papers she retrieved inside her clothes while pulling an Escape Rope. Unless Claire did something drastic and really fast, Cathia’s manage to grab onto Azumarill and have Floette land on her before she threw out the rope, and had herself be teleported out of the base.

If Claire attempts to stop her, go ahead. What does Claire do?

If not.

situation

Now, Cathia might not count that as a loss, but the Pokédex sure did.

Ralia grew to level 18!
Laurel grew to level 16!
Lure grew to level 17!
Zeal grew to level 18!
Pip grew to level 16!
Tez grew to level 17!

Claire was victorious! Claire earned 1700 P for winning!

…

Oh?

Pip has a choice to make. Does she want to evolve now… or does she want to wait for the optimum dramatic moment?

if now

A swirl of light took place as Pip was surrounded by bright energy, transforming her appearance. Making her larger, heavier and also adding numerous green leaves around her neck as a sign of her development.

Congratulations! Pip evolved into Bayleef!

Pokédex Entry #153 – Bayleef, the Leaf Pokémon. Bayleef's neck is ringed by curled-up leaves. Inside each tubular leaf is a small shoot of a tree. These leaves emit a spicy aroma, which has been known to cause a variety of effects on those who inhale it. For example, they are known to become energetic, healthier, as well as occasionally have an overpowering desire to pick a fight.

New Pokémon evolved! Claire earned 2000 P!

‘Oho?’ said a curious, slightly more mature voice, stepping forward. ‘The “occupy her until I get there” team actually managed to drive her off?’ she said, sounding pleasantly surprised. ‘I’m impressed.’

‘L-lady Isabella…!’ the “Lass” spun around to face her, looking worried about herself due to her complete failure in the battle herself, but, throwing a glance at Claire, she then looked to Isabella again. ‘Y-yes, ma’am! Under my command, my team was able to-’

‘Shush,’ the woman waved out an umbrella at the girl, and a sudden giant bat appeared behind her, waving its wings and positively blowing the “Lass” completely off her feet and into a toppled-over desk. It looked like it hurt a bit. ‘It is clear that this was not by your efforts. The four of you were utterly worthless as anything but fodder, and I ought to have you reprimanded…’

‘N-no, ma’am, I-’ the Lass started, and the giant bat started floating forward at her threateningly… but Isabella held her umbrella in the way of the bat’s approach, giving a little smile.

‘Yet, clearly, you chose the right person to recruit. This was a clear stroke of genius on your part. Perhaps I should give you a bonus for your efforts?’ the woman asked, and the “Lass”’s face first looked really confused, looking to Claire like “I recruited her?”, but then just brightened up considerably at the mention of a bonus. ‘Th-thank you, my lady!’

‘Now, then…’ the woman, dressed in what looked like a noblewoman’s outfit and definitely a noblewoman’s hairstyle, blonde with a black dress, held her umbrella against her shoulder and looked curiously at Claire. ‘You’ve proven yourself to have considerable prowess in battle. Introduce yourself, and name your price, if you would.’

Isabella

Notably, she’s older than she looks in the image. She’s a proper woman.

Pokédex Entry #42 – Golbat, the Bat Pokémon. It flies in moonless night skies or inside dark caves, seeking prey. Once found, it stealthily bites and sucks their blood, not stopping until it’s full, which is at around 10 ounces, at which point it can’t fly. A human can safely donate 15 ounces, so one bite should still be safe. Curiously, after a meal, it changes blood-type to that of its target.

__________________________

@Gardevoiran

Now, Wingulls can’t learn Dive, so technically Seabreeze should probably have had considerable trouble getting down to the bottom of the lake to retrieve the Pokéball, but since you did what would have saved it anyway, press the button to send it back to the PC, we’ll just continue.

‘Bonsly will do just fine,’ Vivia said about a modestly happy Bonsly with a slight note of affection in her voice when asked about nicknames, because that’s the norm and what’s expected is to call your Pokémon, it’s those that nickname their Pokémon that are the outliers, heh.

Vivia nodded and stayed to train Bonsly a bit while Skylar headed back to Lakewatch Town to get his Pokémon healed. A few skips over some rivers later, and…

nurse

‘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…

Di, di, di-do-da!

‘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!’

… And then he was on the road again!

He got to Route 6, the vast open fields spreading out before him. While he went to catch a Star, Vivia went off to that Rapidash service over there to admire the horses just a bit. Just a little bit. And perhaps to chat with the owners for a bit.

Skylar found a Staravia, flying by itself seeking prey, and sent out Seabreeze to hunt after it. Seabreeze was the faster bird, but Staravia saw him coming. The bird quickly spun about and chased straight towards him! Seabreeze’s Attack was lowered by Intimidate! … Not that it mattered a lot!

As commanded, Seabreeze unleashed a Water Pulse! Staravia didn’t bother to dodge but crashed straight through the pulse, dealt remarkable damage… but in turn it flew in and hit Seabreeze with a destructive Wing Attack! Ow!

Seabreeze shot a Water Gun now, to be safe and not faint the target (though Staravia would have survived another Water Pulse), and this, too, hit! Staravia glared back at Seabreeze, and dove in and hit another Wing Attack! Unfortunately, Staravia’s high attack caused it to be too much! Seabreeze fainted!

Staravia gave a short little victory cry…! … And then it was hit by Skylar throwing a Pokéball at it! The bird was absorbed into the ball, and it fell down onto the field!

It rolled once! It rolled twice! It rolled thrice…!

result

click

Skylar caught Staravia!

Gender: ♂
Type: Normal/Flying
Personality: (Up to player.)
Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.)
Level: 16
Moves: Tackle, Growl, Quick Attack, Wing Attack, Double Team
Ability: Intimidate: Lowers Attack when first encountered!
Held Item: None.

Currently at 39% health.

New Pokémon caught! Skylar earned 2000 P!

Would you like to give a nickname to Staravia?

Your party is full! Select one Pokémon to send to the PC.

Seabreeze grew to level 16!

After that, Vivia returned, Scraggy and Bonsly in tow.

‘So, it seems there are two ways across Route 6. There’s walking, but apparently Route 6 can be pretty dangerous, there’s flocks of Tauros and there’s evolved Pokémon that can decide to pick a fight, and such. The option is to hire a Rapidash to ride over the plains, but it costs 2000 P per person,’ she says, looking out over the vastness of Route 6 which had no end in sight.

Skylar’s actions?

Route 6

Route 6

Also known as the Vast Plains, it is not hard to understand how Route 6 gained such a name. Seemingly endless, green plains spread in every direction, only stopped by the natural borders that are the cliffs down into the ocean and the mountain range of Mt. Chill. Natural hills have formed, rolling up and down like giant, stationary green waves in this ocean of grass. These hills are also the only form of cover that you will ever get on this plain. Due to the abundance of wild Pokémon eating or battling the grass around here it never grows above the height of your feet. There is nowhere to hide here…!

This goes double. The Pokémon of Route 6 have nowhere to hide. They survive using speed, strength or both. Intimidation is key, in these plains of wilderness. In addition, there is a lot of them. You’re not able to look in a single direction where there aren’t wild Pokémon, to the degree that it is ridiculous. There is no Pokémon, not even rare ones, on Route 6 that you cannot find out exists here with just a number of steps over the route. This, however, means most Pokémon on the route are tempered for battle, it is among the wildest routes of Isson. There are reasons why the unprepared tend to avoid this route.

However, for potentially setting astride a large Pokémon, running across large fields of grass under a blue sky, feeling the fresh air blow past as you thunder on with nothing to stop you? There is no better place.

Suggestions to actions

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 aren’t a lot around here. Those there may be are likely strong or reckless.
4. Talk. … And if you find any of them, suppose you can talk. Or just talk to those at the Rapid Delivery service.
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; Rapidash Rapid Delivery. You can loan a Rapidash to ride safely through Route 6 for 2000P!
10. ???. … There is a fierce-looking trainer out there, with a humanoid Pokémon of blazing white and red, fighting a whole horde of Tauros by itself AND WINNING, with powerful punches and kicks, one after another. Pyroars look on with great interest.
11. Familiar Faces: Oaken. … He successfully caught that Fletchinder.

Connected areas:
Route 5. In the north-west, connecting Lakewatch and Stillwood.
Endless Forest. To the west, a dark forest looms. It’s still there.
More Route 6. Yeah, you’re not getting to the other side in one post.

Route 6, known Pokémon

Common:
#77 Ponyta
#84 Doduo
#128 Tauros
#396 Starly
#659 Bunnelby (primarily at night)
#661 Fletchling
#667 Litleo

Uncommon:
#78 Rapidash
#85 Dodrio
#241 Miltank
#397 Staravia
#662 Fletchinder
#668 Pyroar

Rare:
#115 Kangaskhan
#398 Staraptor
#626 Bouffalant
#663 Talonflame

__________________________

@hatakekuro

Quick stop to heal.

nurse

‘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…

Di, di, di-do-da!

‘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!’

So, Basil asked around for some stories and histories. There were four curious local ones that he could find out.

He found a few elders that could tell him a thing or two.

The Legend of the Silent Shrine

‘Once upon a time, a long time ago, a terrifying monster appeared and laid waste to the crops and the fields. Records are unsure as to the nature of this monster, but it is said that nobody could stop it, the people and Pokémon lived in fear of this entity. That was when 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 joined on his quest by the guardians of the forest, standing mighty and proud beside him. Together they faced off against the monster, and were eventually able to subdue the monster, sending it on its way. As such, 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. They say every Champion of Isson prayed at the shrine at some point or another! You should too!

As for where the guardians and the attacking monster is now? Who can say…’

The Rocks of Highhill Town

‘The rocks of Highhill Town were here before the town itself. The town was built around the hill with the rocks due to the strategic importance of the fields around as well as the proximity to Dragon Lake. There are similar rocks in the Stillwood Forest near Stillwood Village, and there’s a third set underwater near Lakewatch Town. Together they form a triangle around Dragon Lake. What are their purpose? What are they for? What is the strange writing on the monument? Who can say? Yet, very recently a rumor has been going around. They say a blind young boy managed to open the Highhill Rocks and into a cave within it. How could he have done this? We do not know. What’s within?

We know even less.’

The Endless Rain of Route 3

‘It rains on Route 3. Everyone knows that. It’s like saying water is wet or the sun is hot. It rains on route 3, always have. It’s a completely natural phenomenon. … Right?

Some weird people called “scientists” seem to think otherwise. It really shouldn’t be able to rain constantly in the same place at all times. Weirder still is perhaps the face the constant rain that covers Route 3 and Northern Silent Forest is centered on a shrine hidden deep within Northern Silent Forest…

… Eh, no, that’s silly. It rains on Route 3, as simple as that. Thinking there’s anything else is sheer conspiracy theory. Pay me no mind.’

The Flaming Beast of Pureplain

‘They say a great flaming beast used to run across the Pureplain, before Pureplain City existed. It was a great, grand and regal beast, who never stopped running, and the locals of Highhill Town revered it. However, one day, the foundation of Pureplain City was made, and eventually grew outwards until it became a great, flourishing city… but the beast disappeared. The plains it used to run on had become a great, seaside city.

Despite this, the beast is still occasionally seen. Sightings are uncommon, but not unheard of. It still appears, just not where it can be seen by many people. Lucky trainers here and there are still allowed the honour of gazing upon its majesty. Sighting the beast is not an unfulfillable quest, nor a fictional legend. It is just far, far rarer than it once was. The only clues I can give, however, is that it does not run where it can be seen by many, and it often travels in the later hours of the day.

And no, the beast is not the monster from that first legend, just in case you thought that. The flaming beast is too well known to have been the monster of legend. Just in case you thought that.’

So, those were some things Basil could hear about that were way out of his level-range.

What was he going to do, now?

Suggestions to actions

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.

Highhill Town

Common:
#10 Caterpie
#16 Pidgey
#66 Machop
#532 Timburr

Uncommon:
#588 Karrablast
#616 Shelmet

Rare:
#198 Murkrow (night)

__________________________

@Typical

‘Diglett!’ Diglett happily called at several times when it was just them.

Eventually, she decided to call Braith. It took a couple of beeps before the phone answered on the other side.

‘You have reached the delicate ears of the trainer of the lavish endeavor, Braith. How may I be of service?’ Braith eventually answered, sounding as confident as ever. ‘Oh, the little sapling? How goes your journey?’ he then said when he realized who was calling, changing his tone to sound a little less flirty, a little less prideful. He then chuckled a little. ‘I am afraid the badge still eludes me. Who knew dragons were so proficient with electricity and martial arts? Made doing damage with a water and ice-type proper precarious, I’ll have you know,’ he said, but didn’t sound like he was discouraged in any way, shape or form.

‘Hm-hm, you seek a dragon, do you?’ he sounded out in slight amusement at this idea. ‘There are, indeed. There’s a specific place you want to go to. If you enter the cave from Route 2, the path immediately splits into three. You want to go down the deep path. A word of caution, it gets very dark down there, a source of light is to be recommended. Follow that path, and you will run into an underground river. Follow the river leftwards, and you will find a point where the waters of Dragon Lake enters the Wet Caverns. Here, young dragons seeking adventure occasionally find their way into the cave to explore. At any point along this underground river you may find them roaming about.’ So were his words on finding said dragon.

‘Not completely boring, you say? Perhaps my impression was influenced by the fact I was constantly stressed about getting my face wet,’ he chuckled about Lakewatch underwater, and then onto the suggestion of dinner. ‘I shall remain training around Lakewatch Town until I can successfully claim the badge, so chances are I will still be there when you return from the cavern. I have little reason to head to Raremine Town, however. The heat doesn’t entirely agree with me. … Unless perhaps I fancy a visit to their Stone Store? They sell the most exquisite jewelry there… along with Pokémon evolutionary stones, of course,’ he said, giving another little chuckle as he did.

‘I may keep you updated when I find the time, then. It is not as if I could not fly wherever whenever on Noivern should I desire it. But I’ll focus on my own journey first and foremost. Good luck, miss Eryn. Give your regards to Eri for me. Farewell for now!’ And with that, the call was ended, and Eryn had a few more directions.

So, Eryn headed back to the main cavern…

Oh, and lest you forgot.

after the link

Pokédex Entry #41 – Zubat, the Bat Pokémon. It lives in colonies in dark places. It has no eyes, but when flying it is constantly emitting ultrasonic sounds which it uses to navigate through echolocation. As sunlight burns it, it’s usually only found in caves or at night.

Still, perhaps the flock of Zubats positively everywhere in Wet Caverns wasn’t so scary when you had a literal giant rock snake leading the way.

Before moving on, however, how would Eryn handle the dark?

Wet Caverns

Wet Caverns

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.

Suggestions to actions

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. Move back Retreat back to the previous crossroad. Specify further if you know where you’re going.
4. Delve Deeper. Attempt getting deeper inside the caverns. Specify further if you know where you’re going.
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. Fast-Travel. You know the way, you can get to the other side without issue if you like.

Connected areas:
Route 2. Feel free to fast-travel.
Lakewatch Town. Behind you.

Wet Caverns

Common:
#41 Zubat
#74 Geodude
#118 Goldeen
#283 Surskit

Uncommon:
#50 Diglett
#54 Psyduck
#75 Graveler
#78 Slowpoke
#170 Chinchou (deep well)
#194 Wooper

Rare:
#95 Onix
#302 Sableye

__________________________

@Savo

Chloe did not notice Cyril looking weird, just heading on and pursuing the path out of the forest. He was free to wallow in his memories on his own and with his own team.

Then there were these two.

Chloe gave Cyril an odd glance when he instead of meeting the challenge tried to defuse the situation, prompting her to take a step back and let the more experienced Pokémon Trainer do his thing, maybe she’d even learn something?

The two grunts looked perplexed and maybe a bit insulted that Cyril started out with acknowledging the “compliment” to their style and then just telling them they’re wrong. Cyril then went on about Trainer Cards and Pokédexes and…

‘Those might just be part of the disguise!’ the red-haired one said, unconvinced.

‘More than that, you’re acting far too confident for someone we’re engaging! You must have practiced for this exact situation!’ the white-haired one called, convinced by his own argument.

‘In fact, you’re acting so shady, it’s disturbing…’ red-haired one said, and then turned to Chloe with a concerned look. ‘Is this man forcing you to accompany him in his vile deeds? Is he mistreating you? If you come with us, I promise we can protect you…!’

‘The heck are you on about?’ Chloe asked, seriously confused.

Red-haired guy looked positively mortified.

‘That does it, get them! You’re coming with us!’ white-haired guy declared, pointing forward to his Pokémon and entirely ignoring the rest of Cyril’s questions.

once again, for good measure

Team Virtue Grunts Randy & Mark would like to battle!

Round ball of gas and a fluffy yellow sheep advanced! If you don’t fight back now, they’ll round you up!

Pokédex Entry #92 – Gastly, the Gas Pokémon. It is comprised almost entirely from almost invisible gases that it has complete control of. It usually defeat an opponent by shrouding them in its own poisonous gases, which causes most beings to faint. Due to its weight, it will be blown away by wind and therefore takes cover.

Pokédex Entry #179 – Mareep, the Wool Pokémon. It rubs together its coat of wool to generate static electricity that is stored in its fleece, which can more than double in size with enough electricity. This is how it keeps warm, so it discharges the electricity come summer when it’s not needed. The bulb on its tail grows more brightly the more electricity is stored.

The strategy is fairly simple. Both start out with Hypnosis and Thunder Wave, each, to target any Pokémon attacking them. After every enemy is hit by a status-effect, Mareep will start Thundershocking while Gastly will continue to Hypnosis in case any wakes up. Gastly will Mean Look, ensuring nobody can escape, if there’s no target to Hypnosis. Gastly’s Levitate makes immune to Ground-type, Mareep’s Static can paralyse on contact.

If Gastly or Mareep is taken out, they’ll be replaced by the following Pokémon on the same side.

Pokédex Entry #363 – Spheal, the Clap Pokémon. Known to be bad at both walking and swimming, a Spheal’s preferred method of travel is rolling. Its thick fur shields it from all cold, and they’re known to drift to new locations on icebergs. When they’re happy or eating, they tend to clap their tiny limbs to show appreciation.

Pokédex Entry #88 – Grimer, the Sludge Pokémon. Said to be born when the light of the moon hits sludge pumped out of factories. It drinks wastewater along with the waste of factories and loves anything filthy. Each Grimer is composed of different germs, and Grimers share bits of each other to one another to create new poisons.

That is, if Gastly’s taken out Spheal will replace, and if Mareep’s taken out Grimer will replace. Ice Body and Sticky Hold will not affect the battle. Spheal is going to go Rollout at once, using trees to try to roll and ricochet towards them, and in absence of those at anything else, trusting Rollout’s gradual increase in power. Grimer will try to Poison Gas any remaining Pokémon, and then Mud-Slap to do damage, and Pound otherwise.

Notably, Chloe won’t stand idle. She’ll send out Growlithe first and primarily go for damage options.

What does Cyril do?

And in case you just run or something, here’s the forest again.

Southern Silent Forest

Southern Silent Forest

The awaiting forest that greeted those who entered it was one of utter calm. The Silent Forest is a peaceful place where little in the way of violence or turmoil, giving credence to the name which it is now known by. Pokémon and people at peace with nature often walk among these trees, little noise other than the occasional sound of a Pokémon making their way or playing in the grass. In comparison to the other kinds of forests that one might find in Isson, this is without a doubt the least dangerous and absolutely least exciting one. Still, it is a boon to those of the calm Pureplain City who simply wants somewhere with fresh air to wander every once in a while.

Suggestions to actions

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: Wander. This place… it’s so relaxing. Wouldn’t it be so nice to just… wander away… without thinking about it?

Connected areas:
Route 1. To the south.
Route 3. If you head north-east for a while.
Silent Shrine. Go north, you should be able to find the road there.

Southern Silent Forest, known Pokémon

Common:
#546 Cottonee
#548 Petilil

Uncommon:
#39 Jigglypuff
#300 Skitty
#431 Glameow

Rare:
#357 Tropius

Darkest Before the Dawn: A CYOA Magical Girl Roleplay [Completed]

Mariette gave Eli money so she could buy a Super Map perk for herself.

Mariette's (usable in shop) economy currently looks like...

Received from lich fight, supposedly: 1 gold, 4 silver, 6 bronze.
Received after rave event: 1 gold, 2 silver.
Purchased Super Map for Eli: -2 gold, -2 silver
Total: 4 Silver, 6 Bronze, 1 Ruby.

Darkest Before the Dawn: A CYOA Magical Girl Roleplay [Completed]

Movie Marathon

@BrokenPromise@Ariamis@AtomicNut@Ponn@FamishedPants@Card Captor@twave

Ronin waved happily to Sakura greeting her, and then she got the attention of Connie. Now, Connie probably looks way different now compared to before, if banners are to be believed, but anyway! Ronin grinned at the stammering girl, and reached to grab the girl’s hand with both hers and shake.

‘It is entirely alright! The important thing is that we’re friends now! We can call one another whenever we want, and talk about whatever we want! If you’re ever in danger, do tell! Where is Faith, by the way? Is she alright?’ Ronin asked, looking suddenly serious, because she apparently didn’t overhear anyone referring to her as who she is.

Then, apparently, by the rules of the game, she was supposed to kiss Shoggy? …………………………………… She didn’t really want to. Ronin went and retrieved a cupcake and handed it over to Shoggy with a grin. ‘Here, have a chocolate cupcake, and give me a Dare~!’

Right, then. Spinning a bottle. And it ended on… … …

roll + table

‘Alex, I’m gonna go kiss your girlfriend,’ she said, making eye-contact, establishing dominance, and then (unless she receives complaints about this course of action) she gets up, turns to Lily, grins a little, then skips over to give her a light little kiss on the lips before turning back and skipping back to her place in the immediate area. Unless Shoggy gives her a dare that makes her unable to do so, anyway.

---

It came to Mariette’s attention that there was something for sale that she wanted. Due to arbitrary rules she was unable to cash in on it herself… a portal opened outside the shop, and a slime-harpy dropped out of it. Eli had been given money with which to purchase something. Eli made her way inside the shop, grabbed the Super Map, and brought it to the counter.

‘One Super Map perk, please,’ Eli requested, depositing 2 gold and 2 silver from within her slime-wing onto the counter. And that’s about it.

Pokémon: Start

@Savo

Chloe giggled a little at Cyril’s statement about catching everything in the forest. ‘Teh-heh, maybe I would~’ she teased a little, about invading the Pokémon League with an army of cute Pokémon. ‘Actually, I think I’ve caught what I wanted in here already, these two. They’re the cutest in Silent Forest~!’ she petted their heads, and her Pokémon looked decently appreciative.

Jigglypuff didn’t look super happy about Cation draped over her. In fact, she looked like she was going to retaliate, before Chloe snatched her up first.

Aster said hello to Petilil. Petilil looked curiously after him, then just answered with a happy little ‘Peti!’ before looking moderately confused at Aster looking away.

Then they were on their way, until Cyril asked Chloe about what her hopes for the future was. Chloe immediately began smiling, but let him finish first. She looked a bit confused about something he suggested. ‘What, fashion designer? Why would I want to be a fashion designer? I want to look good, not make others look good!’ she said, giggling a bit at the statement. ‘No, I want to see the world. When I’m done with my travels in Isson, I’m going to take my Pokémon on a journey across the world, see all the sights, see all the styles and fashion of all the different cultures, and so on. I never really had a home, my parents and I were always living on the road, and part of that desire to travel is still in my blood. But before I go anywhere…’ she looked to Cyril with a determined little grin.

‘I’m going to become the Champion of Isson. Count on it!’ she made a bold proclamation, Sentret backing up her statement with a ‘Sentret!’

Then about places she’d been to.

‘Oh, right, yeah! I went to Worldedge City because it was the biggest place and it was awesome. Then I asked where I could find the professor and found that I needed to go to Pureplain City, so I headed west and down to Rainrock City. That’s when I met Jacques, and he sent me to Redcoast City where he gave me the Pokédex. Then I went by sea to Pureplain City, so, that’s the length of routes that I could tell you about!’ she said.

Then they apparently somehow got lost.

‘Uh. But how’s that possible? We’ve been heading in a straight line, we even tried just retracing our steps to get back to Route 1…’ Chloe asked, positively astounded, because such a seasoned traveller like her would typically never get lost in a forest like this. ‘Right, Pidgey! Fly up and direct us out of the forest, would you?’ she asked.

Pidgey gave them both a deadass how the <omitted word> did you manage to get lost in <omitted word> Silent Forest, the most basic of basic <omitted word> forest of Isson? Are you both complete <omitted word> <omitted word>? stare, before waving his wings and flying up to the treetops, landing on one, and then unceremoniously pointing in a direction with a wing while looking down at them with a judgemental stare proclaiming them idiots.

‘Nicely done, Pidgey! Alright, this way!’ Chloe said, skipping over rock and branch to head towards the exit.

They were heading along, numerous times they had Pidgey making irritated bird noises when they were somehow getting off track, but they were slowly but surely making progress… when they…

Came across two dudes in white clothes and capes, one with red hair and the other with white hair.

‘Oh, hey! I’m so happy to see you, we somehow got lost in this forest…’ the red-haired one one said, breathing out a sigh of relief.

‘Yeah, this forest doesn’t have a reputation for being difficult, really took us by surprise,’ the white-haired one also sighed, but more out of being sick of the forest.

‘Who’d have thought looking for Team Amethyst members would be so difficult?’ the red-haired one lamented.

‘Oh, yeah, maybe you’ve seen them?’ the white-haired one looked hopefully at them. ‘They’re supposed to be two well dressed individuals, one male and one fe… male…’ He suddenly blinked a bit at them. Then his companion blinked in basically the same way. They exchanged a look. Yupp, there could be no mistake.

‘YOUR DISGUISES WON’T FOOL US, TEAM AMETHYST!’ the red-haired one declared.

‘WE’LL BEAT YOU IN A FIGHT AND THEN BRING YOU BACK TO BASE!’ the white-haired one declared in addition.

whelp

Team Virtue Grunts Randy & Mark would like to battle!

Each of them quickly threw out a Pokéball, hitting the forest floor and manifesting in a round ball of gas and a fluffy yellow sheep each.

Pokédex Entry #92 – Gastly, the Gas Pokémon. It is comprised almost entirely from almost invisible gases that it has complete control of. It usually defeat an opponent by shrouding them in its own poisonous gases, which causes most beings to faint. Due to its weight, it will be blown away by wind and therefore takes cover.

Pokédex Entry #179 – Mareep, the Wool Pokémon. It rubs together its coat of wool to generate static electricity that is stored in its fleece, which can more than double in size with enough electricity. This is how it keeps warm, so it discharges the electricity come summer when it’s not needed. The bulb on its tail grows more brightly the more electricity is stored.

The strategy is fairly simple. Both start out with Hypnosis and Thunder Wave, each, to target any Pokémon attacking them. After every enemy is hit by a status-effect, Mareep will start Thundershocking while Gastly will continue to Hypnosis in case any wakes up. Gastly will Mean Look, ensuring nobody can escape, if there’s no target to Hypnosis. Gastly’s Levitate makes immune to Ground-type, Mareep’s Static can paralyse on contact.

If Gastly or Mareep is taken out, they’ll be replaced by the following Pokémon on the same side.

Pokédex Entry #363 – Spheal, the Clap Pokémon. Known to be bad at both walking and swimming, a Spheal’s preferred method of travel is rolling. Its thick fur shields it from all cold, and they’re known to drift to new locations on icebergs. When they’re happy or eating, they tend to clap their tiny limbs to show appreciation.

Pokédex Entry #88 – Grimer, the Sludge Pokémon. Said to be born when the light of the moon hits sludge pumped out of factories. It drinks wastewater along with the waste of factories and loves anything filthy. Each Grimer is composed of different germs, and Grimers share bits of each other to one another to create new poisons.

That is, if Gastly’s taken out Spheal will replace, and if Mareep’s taken out Grimer will replace. Ice Body and Sticky Hold will not affect the battle. Spheal is going to go Rollout at once, using trees to try to roll and ricochet towards them, and in absence of those at anything else, trusting Rollout’s gradual increase in power. Grimer will try to Poison Gas any remaining Pokémon, and then Mud-Slap to do damage, and Pound otherwise.

Notably, Chloe won’t stand idle.

‘What the- Growlithe! Bite the Gastly!’ would be Chloe’s first command, unless Cyril decides they shouldn’t fight or something. Trying to write down an overall strategy for her would be complicated and I want to post this ASAP. Suffice to say she’ll mostly just go for damage options right now.

What does Cyril do?

And in case you just run or something, here’s the forest again.

Southern Silent Forest

Southern Silent Forest

The awaiting forest that greeted those who entered it was one of utter calm. The Silent Forest is a peaceful place where little in the way of violence or turmoil, giving credence to the name which it is now known by. Pokémon and people at peace with nature often walk among these trees, little noise other than the occasional sound of a Pokémon making their way or playing in the grass. In comparison to the other kinds of forests that one might find in Isson, this is without a doubt the least dangerous and absolutely least exciting one. Still, it is a boon to those of the calm Pureplain City who simply wants somewhere with fresh air to wander every once in a while.

Suggestions to actions

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: Wander. This place… it’s so relaxing. Wouldn’t it be so nice to just… wander away… without thinking about it?

Connected areas:
Route 1. To the south.
Route 3. If you head north-east for a while.
Silent Shrine. Go north, you should be able to find the road there.

Southern Silent Forest, known Pokémon

Common:
#546 Cottonee
#548 Petilil

Uncommon:
#39 Jigglypuff
#300 Skitty
#431 Glameow

Rare:
#357 Tropius

__________________________

@Eklispe

‘Prove it! … Oh, darn, rocks,’ Mia made a statement as she realized none in her team really liked taking on rocks. ‘Growlithe! Dodge the rocks, shoot Embers back at it!’ she clenched her fists as she commanded.

‘Growlithe!’ Growlithe started out, the somewhat faster Pokémon deciding to focus on dodging the rocks that started spontaneously falling out of the sky. It was decently successful, the dog managing to dodge the rocks and then threw back a fireball Ember at Atlas! Steel and Rock combined to make it neutral damage, which meant his low Special Defense took a decent hit. ‘Yes! We got this…!’ Mia said in her hope-spot…!

That’s when Atlas took advantage of Growlithe’s brief pause to throw an Ember and bombarded more Rock Tomb over him even as he took an Ember to the face.

‘Groooowl…!’ Growlithe called out from the sudden Super-Effective damage that was blasted on top of him. ‘Oh, no…!’

Due to Growlithe’s speed, he was still quick to fire another Ember at Atlas… and proved exceedingly lucky! He hit a ridiculously lucky hit, the fire burning through Atlas steel parts! Critical Hit! Atlas was burned! … But he still stood!

Now, Burn cut his Attack in half, but Atlas decided that he was not going to care about that as the little fighter brought down another Rock Tomb straight down into the slowed-down Growlithe’s back! Critical Hit! Growlithe fainted!

Atlas grew to level 17!

Still, after that Critical Hit and suffering a Burn, he’d faint next turn as far as this was going.

‘Grrr,’ Mia made an irritated noise. She could still see Pichu over there, dissuading her from sending out Ducklett… ‘Minccino! Go!’ she instead sent out the cuddly Pokémon!

Pokédex Entry #572 – Minccino, the Chinchilla Pokémon. It likes to keep wherever it lives clean and tidy, using its tail as a broom for sweeping and dusting. If it finds shiny but dirty items, it usually cleans them. When Minccino’s greet one another they do so through thorough grooming of the other using their tails.

What’s Dawkin’s next move?

__________________________

@hatakekuro

Fortunately for Basil, the workings of the rarity system is as follows; Common you’ll find no matter what, looking for them or not. Uncommon you’ll find if you look for them, and have a chance to find even if not. Only first at Rare is it up in the air or might need special means to find it. So, it took a bit of searching, but then he found a Karrablast loitering beside a field of crops somewhere.

Pokédex Entry #588 – Karrablast, the Clamping Pokémon. They live in fields and forests, hiding in tall grass or trees. When threatened, they’re known to spit acidic liquid to drive attackers away. If bathed in electricity together with a Shelmet, both will evolve.

The bug was going to Peck the incoming rolling Cecil! It… didn’t go too well! Cecil rolled over the bug and did way more damage than Karrablast did back! Cecil rolled over, improving damage, and Karrablast was going to take it straight on! Karrablast used Endure…! … Which was good for it, because now it took the improved power Rollout and still stood with 1 HP! Rollout isn’t really a good catching move because of the rampantly increasing amount of power… Karrablast gave a cry of success for Endure-ing that Rollout! … Aaaaaand that’s when Basil threw a Pokéball and the bug was absorbed into the ball as a bit of light!

It rolled once! It rolled twice…!

result

CRASH!

Karrablast gave a triumphant cry as it broke out of the Pokéball, using Endure again!

… Try again?

result

Rolled once, rolled twice, rolled thrice.

click

Basil caught Karrablast!

Gender: ♀
Type: Bug
Personality: (Up to player.)
Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.)
Level: 11
Moves: Peck, Leer, Endure
Ability: Swarm. Bug-type moves improved when heavily damaged.
Held Item: None.

Currently at 1 HP.

New Pokémon caught! Basil earned 1000 P!

Would you like to give a nickname to Karrablast?

What would Basil do now?

Currently in Highhill Town.

Highhill Town

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.

Suggestions to actions

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.

Highhill Town

Common:
#10 Caterpie
#16 Pidgey
#66 Machop
#532 Timburr

Uncommon:
#588 Karrablast
#616 Shelmet

Rare:
#198 Murkrow (night)

Darkest Before the Dawn: A CYOA Magical Girl Roleplay [Completed]

Movie Marathon

‘Okay! I’m here now!’ Ronin came in through the door, grinning and looking exactly like she always is. She was holding a big tray of…

‘I brought chocolate cupcakes!’ she said, placing the tray of amateur-made confectionaries on the table with all the other food and stuff, along with two cans of water. Because someone here might need them. ‘Now, let’s make friends, watch movies, and-’ she peered over at the new activity Oros was suddenly starting.

‘Huh.’

Pokémon: Start

@Gardevoiran

Vivia nodded to him and let him go off trying his catching thing while she went off training in the woods for the sake of it. Simply because.

Skylar detected a suitable Scatterbug to attempt catching. He had Celebrity Sing at it, which was successful and the Scatterbug fell asleep and other Scatterbugs scurried away. Skylar then threw the Pokéball!

…

There’s something to be said about a blind person throwing a ball. This usually isn’t much of a problem for Skylar, but this time it was. So he threw the Pokéball and it careened way right of where he intended it to. It bounced off a tree and further right into the woods. Said tree was filled with Scatterbugs that got frightened by the sudden noise and unleashed a cloud of Stun Spore in all directions, catching Celebrity by surprise and Paralyzing her.

Meanwhile, the ball was about to hit another tree… before the tree turned a branch to send the ball flying before the tree ran off. The ball then flew into the crown of a tree, where an Emolga picked it up and carried it off with a happy whistling. It dropped it towards a Sawsbuck, for no other reason than it felt like it… and the Sawsbuck slammed it away with one of its horns, sending the ball spinning off further into the woods.

It then landed in the flower of a Gloom. The Gloom panicked and spread Poison Powder all around it, poisoning multiple Deerlings that were just hanging around. An irritated Sawsbuck charged the Gloom and sent it flying with a strike of its horns, and assumed the other Sawsbuck was the cause of this attack. It charged off, and the two Sawsbucks suddenly squared off for supremacy in the outskirts of Stillwood Forest.

The Gloom, meanwhile, flew into another tree… where a Pikachu was resting. Disturbed by the sudden flying poisonous flower, it let off a panicked Thundershock! Multiple sleeping Hoothoots awoke from sudden electric shocks going through them! Gloom and Pikachu suddenly found themselves assaulted by a small crowd of owls, forcing them to dash off across the branches of the trees they were inhabiting!

… But they ran out of branches! Gloom realized a second too late and almost fell off into the Dragon Lake, which waters the branch was hanging off of, but Pikachu at the last second managed to catch the flower before it fell in! There was a panicked number of moments where it looked certain that Gloom would fall into the waters with Carvanha looking on with interest below, Pikachu struggling to lift the somewhat-heavier-than-itself flower-creature while the impending threat of Hoothoot approached from behind…

… But the Hoothoots realized the situation! The birds with weirdly small wings flew about and grabbed both the Gloom and the Pikachu and lifted them to safety! It was all super-happy and wholesome, and during the lifting the Pokéball fell out of Gloom’s flower. It dropped into the waters of Dragon Lake below, Carvanha fleeing as they came across it, and then it was carried by the currents to a much deeper place…

It sank to the bottom, gently drifting down due to the pressure from above, and then it hit something. That something was absorbed into the Pokéball. The ball rolled once. It rolled twice. It rolled thrice… … … … …

result

click

Skylar caught Stunfisk!

Pokédex Entry #618 – Stunfisk, the Trap Pokémon. It hides itself in mud underwater or on shores awaiting prey to step on it. Its skin is very hard, it’s unharmed by even the heaviest of steps on it. When stepped on, it generates a massive dose of electricity to paralyze its prey before feeding. It’s known to smile as it delivers its electricity…

Gender: ♀
Type: Ground/Electric
Personality: (Up to player.)
Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.)
Level: 19
Moves: Tackle, Water Gun, Mud-Slap, Mud Sport, Bide, Thundershock, Mud Shot, Camouflage
Ability: Static. May paralyze on contact.
Held Item: None.

Currently asleep.

New Pokémon caught! Skylar earned 2000 P!

Would you like to give a nickname to Stunfisk?

Your party is full! Select one Pokémon to send to the PC.

And… that happened. Of course, a trainer was expected to pick up the Pokéball where it had landed, so there was currently a Pokéball with a Stunfisk at the bottom of Dragon Lake containing a Pokémon belonging to Skylar now. Congratulations?

… That aside! Skylar attempted again and was met with no particular difficulties.

result

click

Skylar caught Scatterbug!

Gender: ♂
Type: Bug
Personality: (Up to player.)
Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.)
Level: 5
Moves: Tackle, String Shot
Ability: Friend Guard. Reduces damage done to friends.
Held Item: None.

Currently asleep.

New Pokémon caught! Skylar earned 500 P!

Would you like to give a nickname to Scatterbug?

Your party is full! Select one Pokémon to send to the PC.

So, Skylar started looking for an Emolga by the trees. It didn’t take too long! With some help from his Pokémon he soon found one leaping from tree to tree, taking a leisurely jumping tour just for the sake of it! Perhaps it was the same one from before and his Pokémon had simply been keeping track of it.

Pokédex Entry #587 – Emolga, the Sky Squirrel Pokémon. It lives in treetops and holes in trees made by other Pokémon. It stores electrical charge in its cheeks, and uses this energy to assist flight. It has a thin cape-like membrane between arms and body which helps it fly, and this membrane is capable of discharging the electricity it has stored.

Now, Celebrity is currently paralyzed, so instead Skylar sent out Paradise!

Emolga was a bit distressed to suddenly find a huge Tropius flying after him! Still, nothing like a Thundershock to bring down a flying foe! Emolga spun around and excitedly unleashed a Thundershock attack which struck Paradise straight on…!

It did barely any damage.

Paradise, in turn, stomped the squirrel in mid-air and he was meteor-smashed into the forest floor with a heavy slam. Emolga was pushing himself out of a hole in the ground when it was time for Skylar to finish the fight by throwing a Pokéball at the squirrel.

It ro-

result

CRASH!

Emolga broke out of the Pokéball and flew into the sky! He Quick Attacked into Paradise…!

Still didn’t do a lot of damage, but…

A tinge of pain went through Paradise as Static went through her. Paradise was paralyzed!

One more Pokéball! It hit Emolga and the Pokéball fell onto the forest floor!

It r-

result

-olled once. It rolled twice. It rolled thrice.

click

Skylar caught Emolga!

Gender: ♂
Type: Electric/Flying
Personality: (Up to player.)
Quirks/Talents/Aspirations/Other: (Up to player.)
Level: 7
Moves: Thundershock, Quick Attack, Tail Whip
Ability: Static. May paralyze on contact.
Held Item: None.

At 35% health.

New Pokémon caught! Skylar earned 1500 P!

Would you like to give a nickname to Emolga?

Your party is full! Select one Pokémon to send to the PC.

And with that done… he now had two paralyzed Pokémon, and maybe a situation with an unexpected other Pokémon. He’d used 4 Pokéballs here. Was the plan still to go get a Starly.

Meanwhile. Vivia was over there in the forest, and she had something in her arms…

‘Geesh, you’re kinda heavy, huh,’ Vivia complimented a small tree that she was holding. ‘Well. You are pretty cute, so it’s fine. Welcome to the team, Bonsly,’ she then smiled to the actually-not-a-tree Pokémon she was holding, that happily called back. ‘Bonsly!’

Pokédex Entry #438 – Bonsly, the Bonsai Pokémon. It prefers arid environments. If it gets excess water, it leaks out the water through its eyes, making it look like it’s constantly crying, which also serves to make enemies less willing to attack it. It is a fairly good mimic and are often mistaken for real bonsai trees. Somehow.

Seems like Vivia had added another Pokémon to her team. In any case. What does Skylar do?

Still on Route 5, because I paused you there.

Route 5

Route 5

Just as Stillwood Village is the least visited settlement in Isson, Route 5 is among the least travelled routes on Isson main landmass. The route is a steady incline from Lakewatch Town to Stillwood Village, with some elements of the base of Mt. Chill nearby, the waters of Dragon Lake next to it too, sporadic forest from that surrounding Stillwood Village and some of the plain elements from route 6 as well, along with a very traveller-friendly road makes Route 5 perhaps one of the most naturally stunning routes of Isson. There are no roads for asphalt here, only travellers are explorers seeking or exiting Lakewatch Town for some reason, as well as Pokémon trainers on their journeys.

A peaceful route without any real dangers, it still offers a lot of variation. Walk on the west side by the waters of Dragon Lake to potentially encounter some Pokémon of the lake. Walk by the mountains on the east and perhaps feel some of the radiating cold of the range of Mt. Chill to perhaps see some more mountainous Pokémon or maybe an ice Pokémon that stumbled out of their caves. The route is a bit cold, attributed perhaps best to the proximity to the Frozen Cavern, and it gets colder the closer the mountain you go. Multiple rivers run down from the mountains, part of Mt. Chill that melts, but efficient wooden bridges help passage over. And of course, patches of forest here and there.

The south of Route 5 opens up towards what people call the Vast Plains, or simply Route 6. There parts of the Endless Forest spread out to make things a bit more covered in trees, but as soon as you leave this forest, all you’ll see is plains as far as you can see, and that’d be Route 6. On the other side of the route is the forest that covers Stillwood Village, you need to enter the forest to get to the village. At the middle by the lake is Lakewatch Town, resting a bit above Dragon Lake. And, of course, the passage up to the Frozen Cavern lies up that hill, for those who want to brave the range that leads towards the enclosed and frozen Route 9 on the other side.

Suggestions to actions

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. While not many, there are still trainers and explorers in the area, mostly trying to get to the next.
4. Talk. You could seek someone out to talk to them, if you want to.
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: Random House. Uh. There’s an excessively out-of-place red house in the middle of the route, the door standing wide-open. … Want to visit?

Connected areas:
Lakewatch Town. On the south-west of the route, Lakewatch Town lies adjacent to the lake on the road to the Wet Caverns.
Stillwood Village. In the north lies the forest which hides the village, Mt. Strength lying behind it..
Route 6. Vast plains start in the south-east, this route leads towards Raremine Town.
Frozen Cavern. After an incline up to the ridge of Mt. Chill, a cavern of ice could guide the way to Route 9 and Cooldome City.
Endless Forest. To the south, a dark forest looms. There are no indications as to why you’d ever want to go there.

Route 5, known Pokémon

Common:
#10 Caterpie
#43 Oddish
#163 Hoothoot (During night, rumored)
#585 Deerling
#664 Scatterbug

Uncommon:
#25 Pikachu
#438 Bonsly
#586 Sawsbuck
#587 Emolga

Rare:
#172 Pichu

__________________________

@hatakekuro

Basil dashed over Route 1 on the way to the next town. Said town rose before him on a hill, with old buildings and a gentle road leading up around the hill. Surrounding the place was ranches and crops, places of growing food and such, and children running around being happy… a very country place not too far from Pureplain City. He’d arrived.

arriving in

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.

With that said, Basil made a beeline for the Pokémon Center. The building stood where it could easily be seen with a red roof, and inside he was immediately welcomed as the Pokémon Trainer he was.

nurse

‘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…

Di, di, di-do-da!

‘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!’

With that done, he came out into Highhill Town again, with the sun looking down at him from above and this peaceful little town around him. What will he do here?

Suggestions to actions

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.

Highhill Town, Known Pokémon

Common:
#10 Caterpie
#16 Pidgey
#66 Machop
#532 Timburr

Uncommon:
#588 Karrablast
#616 Shelmet

Rare:
#198 Murkrow (night)

Darkest Before the Dawn: A CYOA Magical Girl Roleplay [Completed]

<probably also before Lily gets any sort of new management>

So, on some evening when Mariette knew they’d be at home because of her information network, she simply stepped out of her portal in front of the door to Lily and Alexander’s home, closing the portal behind her and holding Bunny in her grasp. She was a little nervous to just show up unannounced, maybe she should have called and asked if she should come first? … Actually, yes, that’s a good idea.

Mariette pulled aside and called Lily’s number on the phone as she leaned against the wall on the outside.

Mariette had to wait a bit longer than was comfortable before the call was finally answered by Lily.

"Oh, uh...Hi, Mariette," she greeted; unlike her usual energetic and peppy self, she now sounded apathetic and troubled.

‘Er, hello, this is Mariette. … Can I visit, or is now a bad time?’ Mariette asked, sounding 8the slightest unsure, somewhat concerned at the tone she was using.

"Well, I...No, it’s fine. I wasn’t doing anything constructive anyway. You know where me and Alex live, right?"

‘I do. I’ll be right over. Thank you,’ Mariette said, and then ended the call. She then waited for quite a few seconds.

---

Alexander was just bringing lunch to Lily when she hung up her phone “Who was that?” he asked as he handed her a plate with a burger and fries as he took a seat next to her and started eating his own.

"Oh, thank you Alex. I was getting a bit hungry." She graciously took the offered plate, and picked out a couple of fries. She seemed a little happier than before, though her lack of energy was still apparent.
"It was Mariette," she answered, and munched on a french fry.
"She asked me if she could visit. She’s probably here any second now."

Alexander nodded “That’s good, you could use another friendly face” before he resumed eating.

"I guess..." Lily mused to herself as she continued eating her meal.

‘I just hope this isn’t going to be trouble, I’m still worried about Lily,’ Alex thought.

---

After a while, Mariette knocked on the door, deciding she’d waited long enough to not be distressingly fast.

Alexander opened the door a few seconds later, Dave perched on his head “...hey” he greeted a little awkwardly not entirely sure what to say as he gestured for her to enter “Lily’s...been having a rough time, so she’s going to seem a little...a lot off. Just a heads up.”

‘Hello,’ Mariette greeted, then blinked at little Dave more so than at Alex when he peeked over. Tiny… … … and then what Alexander actually said connected. ‘Oh. I see. May I ask why?’ Mariette asked.

Alexander stepped to the side to let her in, as Dave just stared at her with unblinking eyes “I’m...not sure if I should talk about it behind her back. I’ve never had to deal with anything like this before, so I’m kind of working blind. Although I am hoping that seeing another friendly face and socializing with someone other than me will be good for her.”

‘Alright, that’s fair,’ Mariette said about not wanting to talk behind her back. She decided to simply enter instead.

After entering the apartment, Mariette saw Lily sitting on the sofa, having curled up in a blanket as she watched a magical girl anime running on the TV. She turned her head, and her hand poked out from the blanket to wave at her.

"Hi, Mariette. I’m sorry I didn’t greet you at the door. I just...I didn’t want to move from my spot." She admitted. "Still, it’s nice to see you again. How have things been with you? I guess you’ve also had it rough because of all the riots and stuff."

Bob and Tim suddenly jumped on the sofa and went up to snuggle with Lily, laying in her lap in an adorable pile of fuzz. Lily petted them gently, managing a small smile as she did.

Mariette was a bit bewildered to see Lily like this. This was not what she’d really come here for, but, huh. Now she was concerned.

When Alexander walked in behind her, Dave took one look and Bob and Tim and flew off somewhere else.

‘I’ve been fine. We successfully saved Sammy, as intended. I’ve been trying to save people in the riots, seemed the least I could do…’ Mariette said, her eyes trailing to Bob and Tim, a slight tint on her cheeks appearing at the rabbit and weasel being cute in Lily’s lap. ‘H… how about with you? I’ve… never seen you like this,’ Mariette asked, looking back to Lily, some concern in her voice.

"Yeah...About that..." Lily sighed, and averted her eyes from Mariette.
"After me and Alex escaped from the rave, I happened to spot a family being attacked by some magical girls. They were bullying a young girl...I decided to go and stop them." Her expression turned sad.
"They turned out to be a lot tougher than I ever thought. It was the first time I broke so many bones. But that was nothing." A tear streaked down her eye.
"The girls went for a suicide attack, and I tried to stop them...But it failed. And...at that point...Ixion protected me. And now...He’s..." She sniffled, unable to continue with her story.

Bob and Tim suddenly got up and climbed to both of her shoulders, and then resumed snuggling. Lily lifted her hands up to pet them both, and pressed her cheek against Bob’s.
"Thank you, Bob and Tim. I’m glad you’re here with me."
“Why are animals better at comforting her than I am?” Alexander grumbled under his breath.

… Her patron had sacrificed itself for her? The sheer idea boggled Mariette’s mind for a bit. Magical Girls are the pawns of their patrons… yet clearly, something was different between Ixion and Lily. … Mariette was somewhat at a loss as for what to say to that. … But… ‘I understand. I’m sorry to hear that. I believe… it’s natural to grieve. Take your time,’ she said, looking a bit lost in her own eyes, clutching Bunny a bit harder. She looked to Alex with those same slightly lost eyes, basically saying she can’t really do much more on that front.

“It’s been kind of rough lately” Alexander said as he rubbed the back of his head “but Lily’s doing a lot better now. We’ve mostly been holed up in here since then, so we don’t really know about any new developments on the outside though.”

Lily picked up the two pets, and placed them on her lap.
"Thanks, Mariette. I’ll get over it. I need to, so I can get stronger, and not let his sacrifice be in vain. I’ll take these burdens, and I’ll make them beautiful again."
She giggled a bit.
"It’s a line from Model Warrior Julianne. It’s one of my favorite shows, even if it’s old."

Mariette took a moment to clutch Bunny as she was listening to them, wondering how she’d handle hard times. Then… she blinked a bit. Oh. That’s what she does. Mariette considered for a second, what Lily had just said…

‘I’ll be… right back,’ Mariette said, turning around and letting a portal open in the room, which Mariette walked through and just left hanging there.

It took numerous seconds. Numerous seconds of very quickly consulting with Eli about what a few things were, how they looked, and then using Absolute Direction for maximum efficiency.

Then Mariette came back, her one visible eye entirely wide and her cheeks just the slightest rosy, closing the portal behind her. She now had something in both her hands. In one, she held Bunny, her eternal companion. In the other… Mariette walked over and pushed a plushie of said Model Warrior Julianne at Lily, looking a bit bewildered herself.

‘Whenever I’m sad… Bunny makes me feel better,’ Mariette said, pushing the bunny to her cheek. ‘I need Bunny, but… you… liked Julianne, you said…? Then she can look after you…’ Mariette said, insistently pushing the plushie at her.

Lily was a bit confused by Mariette suddenly leaving.
"Wait, I...Oh." She lowered her head down on top of the pets.
”I knew she’d be weirded out. Why did I say it? I’m such a dork."
But then, Mariette returned, and Lily’s eyes widened upon seeing the plushie that she was given.
"N-No way...These go for at least 500 dollars online! How did you get one, and so fast?" She stared at the plushie, and then hugged it against her cheek; Alex saw that Lily’s smile, that he had grown accustomed to see everyday, had returned.
"Oh, thank you so much! I don’t know how I could ever repay you."

Alexander couldn’t help but smile ‘It’s about time. Although...this probably would have happened sooner if I wasn’t horrible at providing comforting people and stuff like that’ his smile shrunk as he continued that line of thought ‘She’s only been here for a few minutes and she already got Lily to smile. Man, I’m really useless, aren’t I?’ and that, his smile disappeared with a huff.

Mariette kept dead silent about where she got the plushie. “I stole it” would cause so many weird reactions, after all. Instead, Mariette simply smiled at the slight delight of seeing Lily smile again, and… ‘Don’t… worry about it. Just maybe save my life if you find me in danger sometime,’ Mariette instead replied to the last statement about repayment.

Lily lifted her head up to look at Mariette, looking surprised.
"Danger? Is that why you came to visit? Did something happen?"
She asked, sounding concerned.

Alexander mentally sighed ‘of fucking coure! That’s just how things work in this dumpster fire of a town. Lily can’t even get any friends over without some bullshit getting in the way.’

‘Wait, no, I meant theoretically…’ Mariette suddenly looked troubled, sad to see Lily stop smiling so quickly… but she had to sigh and step back, guessing she had to bring up why she came now. ‘… but yes. I am in danger. Justine von Visceral is back, and she does not like me. She is also the only individual I know that can attack me in my Interdimensional Home, where I'd otherwise feel safe, and it has me worried…’

“Wait, that nutty anti love bitch who kidnapped Lily?” Alexander asked bewildered “Why does she have a grudge against you? I’d have thought if she was here for revenge, she would come for Lily and I first, since there’s two of us in a easier place to reach then your home.

Lily nodded. "If that is true, then we must do something about it." She took her phone out. "I'll ask Alicia. The Beacon will surely help with Justine."

‘… Multiple reasons. We once had a partnership, until she decided to murder. I was then the one who opened the portal that brought everyone through to chase towards her palace. I… or, well, my assistant, Eli, was the one who defeated her little sister, Caroline, as well. She came after Eli at the rave earlier, asking about me. I’m also far more of a threat to her, with my ability to go anywhere and so. That’s why I’m being wary. You may still be in danger, but then I will defend you,’ Mariette said. ‘I did send Alicia a letter. She’s yet to respond.’

"You did? That’s weird, she’s usually good about responding to stuff."
Lily sent a text message to Alicia.

“Shit, how long ago was this?” Alexander asked worried “I really hope nothing happened to her. The last thing we need is for Beacon to be going through some kind of succession crisis. The city’s already in bad enough shape as it is. One of the major factions imploding might just push us into the deep end.”

Mariette felt slight apprehension at Lily suddenly texting Alicia, what kind of answer would she get? ‘Not that long ago, I don’t have any reason to believe she’s taken out, her reason to not answering me is probably different…’ she replied to Alexander.

Lily suddenly perked up.
"Oh, Alicia responded with a yes!" She showed the message to Mariette. "When Justine attacks, the Beacon will be there!" She got up, and hugged Mariette. "Now you have nothing to worry about."

‘Wait, uh,’ Mariette sounded out in confusion as she was suddenly hugged. From what she read of the answer, which was just the single word “yes”. It was exceedingly noncommittal and could mean basically anything. Oooookay, then. ‘Um. Good to know…’ she supposed. Means they’re aware of Justine, at the very least. She wasn’t entirely about to ask for their help, however. There was something she’d come here to ask about, though.

‘Say, Alexander? There was something that I hoped to ask of you,’ she said, still in the midst of the hug by Lily.
Alexander was a bit confused, since he had thought that Mariette was here for Lily, but she had something to ask him “Um...sure. What is it?”

‘… So, as said, there’s a chance Justine will attack me inside my home dimension. If she does, I would like my mansion to stand as a fortress against her assault. As such, I came to ask if it was possible to give Sol’s blessings to my mansion? Like you did with the Earth Bastion? I realize that maybe he wouldn’t want to bless something that technically belongs to a Horror, or maybe it would be more effort than it’s worth, you already made those defensive artifacts for me…’ Which Mariette had collected at an earlier time. ‘… But I still wanted to ask if it would be possible,’ Mariette asked, very aware of the weight of Lily clinging to her.

Lily realized she was making Mariette uncomfortable with her clinginess, and released her.
"Oh, uh...Sorry." She turned to look at Alex, waiting for his answer with a bit lip.

Alexander couldn’t help himself and broke out laughing “S...sorry. It’s just, the idea of it being ‘more effort than it’s worth’ to Sol is just hilarious. That moron is such a bleeding heart, that my first day on the job involved looking around for animal shelters and orphanages to bless. He’d probably lecture me if I outright said no to blessing the home of someone working to save the lives of innocents.” his laughter slowly died down as he shifted to a more business like demeanor “That being said, he’s going to need some kind of guarantee that this is for a good cause. I know I rag on him all the time, but he’s not an idiot who just gives out blessings willy nilly. Now granted, I think he’ll be willing to hear you out, after the role you played in the attack on her place. Although...” Alexander began to trail off “...I don’t actually know who your Patron is, beyond them being a Horror. So I’m not sure if there would be any kind of conflict of interests. Sol hate’s evil, so the idea of his power being used to aid it in anyway really pisses him off. But hey, maybe your Patron is one of the good Horrors, I sure as hell don’t fucking know” he shrugged at the end.

"What kind of Patron is Asengav? What does he like?" Lily asked Mariette. "Ixion loved batteries," she added, looking down.

Mariette looked away. ‘Asengav is… not good, really. But he’s reasonable. He operates in a multitude of different dimensions, and in each he allows the girls he’s stationed there to operate as they please as long as they contribute to the cause. He likes monsters and magical artifacts, and wants me to offer such to him. Which I do, when I can,’ probably mostly off-screen which she isn’t paid for, ‘but the current matter was me probably getting attacked by a more vicious-minded horror-servant. Or so.’

Alexander scratched the back of his head “Thats…maybe workable. I mean, maybe that’ll make Sol okay with blessing your place. I can’t read his mind, so you’ll need to talk with him directly. ”

Mariette bit back a bit. ‘I could try that.’

Lily’s face scrunched as she thought about Mariette’s explanation.
"So Asengav likes to collect monsters and stuff? Hmm...Oh! He’s a janitor!" She lifted a finger, her eyes gleaming with the idea.
"Asengav wants to help by cleaning up! Phew, I’m glad that’s the case."
She gave an easy smile.
"I was worried he’d be another really bad guy, like the one Justine worked for." She looked at the TV; there was a scene where the main heroine was delivering a sappy speech about the light of friendship. She nodded, and turned to Mariette, taking her hand.
"Hey Mariette. Um...Even though I’m still recovering, I do feel a bit restless just sitting at home. So, uhh...can I be there when Justine arrives? I want to talk with her again.”

Mariette kept exceedingly quiet about Lily's misconception about Asengav. Then, though, Mariette found her hand taken, and held a lightly surprised expression at Lily's request. Before she could respond, though…

“Yeah, I’m going to have to veto that.” Alexander spoke up “Lily, I don’t want you anywhere near that nutjob, especially in your condition. If you’re really feeling restless, then we can go take a walk or something, not face down a crazy person!”

Lily looked upset as she turned to Alex.
"But this is Justine! We’ve fought her before, I know we can defeat her again!" She made a sad pout.
"I’m sure if I just get to talk with her, everything will work out...I think."
"And, uh...Mariette needs me to support her as her friend."
She now looked Mariette in her one eye.
"Because that’s what friends do, right? I am your friend, right?"
She asked, practically pleading.

‘I…’ Mariette started, throwing a lightly worried glance at Alexander before looking back at Lily. ‘You are my friend, and I could give you a place to stay and be thankful for any help if you'd give me, but I don't want to argue against Alexander about a matter concerning you. I'd prefer if you sorted it out between the two of you, and I'd accept the verdict…’ Mariette said, looking unsure about this matter.

Alexander flinched and took a step back at the sight of Lily’s sad face looking right at him “I...uh...” He was starting to wonder if she had suddenly gotten mind magic or something. Because it just felt like he was being stabbed in the heart while something squeezed his brain “Look it’s just...I don’t want...” but he suddenly found his linguistic skills waning ‘Dammit, what do I do!? I want her to stay here, where it’s safer, but...’ the memory of Lily’s sad face, the one his words caused, suddenly flashed in his mind ‘...what if I’m just making things worse? She’s a strong girl, she can take care of herself, even in her condition. What if...what if I’ve just been holding her back?’ He derailed that train of thought with a wild shake of his head ‘Dammit! I don’t know what to think anymore.’ he let out a defeated sigh “Just...do what you want, I won’t get in your way”

"Oh, ok…" Lily answered Mariette, and then bit her lip at Alex' outburst, understanding how frustrated he was. The both of them had entrusted her with the decision, and she was torn.
"Alex…" She closed her eyes.
"Thank you for supporting me. I know it must be hard to be with an idiot girl like me sometimes. But this is something I need to do. I don't want to lose any more friends. I need to do what I can to protect the ones I have left." She held a hand out for Mariette.
"I may have lost Ixion, but I have not lost my will to fight! You can count on me, Mariette."

Alexander started to chuckle “You, an idiot? Lily; I’m the idiot! This whole time I’ve been struggling to cheer you up...and yet the freeloaders ended up having more success than me. And then she-” he points at Mariette “-just drops in, gives you a stuffed animal, and suddenly your smile is back.” The energy in his voice faded quickly “I...don’t understand people, I never really have. And I’ve never had to comfort someone emotionally before. These past few days just reminded me of that, as I fumbled around trying to fix you. It’s painfully clear that I don’t know what you need, so I’m not going to fight you on this. Just...promise me something Lily” He took the hand she held out for Mariette “Please; don’t make me regret this.”

She blinked when her hand was gripped by Alex, but he proceeded to shake it, looking determined.
"I promise, Alex." Then, Lily pulled Alex closer, and kissed him on the cheek. She giggled a bit, and turned to Mariette, still holding his hand.
"So, what are we going to do? Just be ready for you to create a portal for us?"

It was a little confusing to Mariette, watching Alexander and Lily’s exchange, her one visible eye looking back and forth between them. She was about to take Lily’s hand, but then Alex took it himself and Mariette had to retract hers. But, it seemed they’d reached a conclusion. ‘Being in a relationship sure seems complicated… I’m glad we never have to argue, Bunny…’ Mariette whispered to Bunny as she clutched him with one arm. ‘Yes. I could open a portal at any point back to my mansion. … Did you want to come at once, or…?’ Mariette asked, a bit unsure what the exact proceedings was.

Lily shook her head with an uneasy smile.
”Not yet. I still have things I need to do, like finding a new Patron for myself. Luckily I know where I can start my search.” She pat one of her pockets, and nodded to herself.
”Anyway, would you like to stay for lunch, Mariette? We could hang out and just do normal friend stuff if you’re not too busy.”

“If you’re looking for a new Patron, I’m sure Sol would be willing to take you in.” Alexander spoke up, his cheek feeling strangely warm where Lily’s lips had touched it “I...was planning on suggesting it once you were feeling better. I didn’t want it to feel like I was saying Ixion was...replaceable? Or something like that. I don’t know, it just didn’t feel right.”

Lily turned to Alex with a surprised look.
"Oh, you were? Well, I'll first talk with Umu, see what he has to offer, ok?"

Suggestion to just stay over and eat lunch and do normal friend things… Sounded nice, reminded Mariette she should probably visit Violet and Sakura at some point…
No, she was not about to suggest her own Patron for Lily. That was not the way.
‘Maybe another time, when I’m not quite so occupied making preparations. For now, I’ll take my leave. You have my phone number if you’d like to reach me. Good luck on your search, I’ll see you later,’ Mariette said, opening a portal for herself to depart through. Lily waved back eagerly with a smile as Mariette disappeared through the portal.
"Ok then, see you later!"
Lily was truly glad that she did succeed in becoming friends with Mariette. She only hoped that they were ready for when Justine attacked...

Darkest Before the Dawn: A CYOA Magical Girl Roleplay [Completed]

@Majoras End Can I say that Deni/Ronin would come over to play with the group she previously interacted with some more to make sure it's not just a one-time-thing, grieve the twins for a bit with the rest of them and then hang out at some point, without necessarily collabing it because I'm tuckered out?