Basil did some training, so lets level up his Pokémon a bit. His main targets were Grass-types here, Bellsprouts and Shroomish, Shroomish in particular being annoying as damaging them with close combat attacks had a tendency to get you afflicted with status effects.
Still, some training got done, assuming he focused on Bellsprouts and the occasional Drifloon and Carnivine.
Pokédex Entry #425 – Drifloon, the Balloon Pokémon. They tend to float around aimlessly. It loves damp weather, and can express emotions by expanding or shrinking. If a child grabs one it looks harmless because they’re so light, but children that have held a Drifloon for too long sometimes vanish. Stories say these children are dragged to the afterlife.
Pokédex Entry #455 – Carnivine, the Bug Catcher Pokémon. It walks around on its tentacles in search of a tree branch where it can dangle down to lay its trap. It attracts prey with its sweet-smelling saliva, then chomps down on it when it enters its mouth. It takes a whole day to eat captured prey. Commonly found in marshes and wet forests.
Cecil grew to level 10! Lupin grew to level 9! Lupin learned Quick Attack! Crocus grew to level 11! Lancer grew to level 12!
Basil found a lady in a yellow raincoat wielding a parasol in Route 3.
‘Hm? Pokémon here? I assume you’re wondering about the rarer kinds. Well, there’s the occasional Drifloon, and also sometimes there’s Carnivine… Occasionally, one can find Psyducks at the water-line of this route, that’s how I got mine. Oooh, but there was this trainer who claimed he’d found a Pinsir here! Not been able to find one myself, though.
Huh? Something causing the rain? No, it’s always raining here, it’s not being caused by anything! It’s absolutely delightful here! Makes me want to battle! Do you want to battle!?’
There’s occasionally consequences to talking to people on routes. Unlike in the certain other Pokémon worlds, though, Basil can say no.
Parasol Lady Lilly would like to battle!
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.
Will use Astonish to try to cause flinches! Swift Swim makes it really fast in rain! … And it’s raining!
Pokédex Entry #53 – Psyduck, the Duck Pokémon. It is plagued by headaches from the moment it is born until it evolves. Its vacant look is there to lull its enemies, and by intensifying its headaches it can unleash psychic powers. However, any time it uses these powers will create a lapse in its memory and it won’t remember having done so.
Will Water Gun, unless faced with Crocus, then it’ll Tail Whip and Scratch instead. Damp makes it so you can’t self-destruct, so at the very least you don’t have to worry about your performance.
And if he does not want to battle, what will Basil do now?
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.
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.
Common: #69 Bellsprout #270 Lotad (in water) #285 Shroomish
At some point when Dina was in the Overcity, doing whatever she wished, she’d suddenly have a portal open behind her first.
‘You are Dina, correct?’ Mariette asked, stepping forward out of the portal, holding a stuffed bunny between her crossed arms. A single eye inspecting Dina and the other behind an eyepatch. ‘I wish to speak to you.’
Dina’s entire body seemed to jolt, and, in a split second, jumped forward and spun in midair, her body language on all fours with her tail upwards and hairs stiff showed a clear distress, her ears equally stiff and almost hissing. She had been thinking of getting some Overcity Sky Tuna sushi, but a girl appearing out of a portal was definitely not expected.
However, after seeing that Mariette had not pursued attack, the catgirl seemed to relax, ever so slightly, however her tail was still noticeable swishing and her ears downcast. Her eyes narrowed like pinpricks boring into Mariette’s skull.
“Indeed I am, and I am loath to say this is certainly surprising. Who are you?” She said, trying her best to rein her poise back in.
Mariette winced a little at Dina’s excessive reaction, mentally preparing to defend herself. Wasn’t necessary, though. That was some display of acrobatics.
‘… I am Mariette Pedersen. I spoke to Dan about him helping me defeat a vampire. Does that clarify things?’ Mariette asked, looking curiously at the cat-girl.
“Oh, that one.” Dina said, finally assuming a normal stance. “Pretty atypical for him, for as little I know him.” She began to walk forward, her face leaning towards Mariette. “And I guess this is pretty atypical for you. To cooperate with other factions, are you not?” Dina said leaning inches away from Mariette, before retracting.
“Since this is something Lord Dan agreed, I am bound to honour your wishes.” Dina said. “Therefore, you may speak what you have to say. We seem to be in a rather nondescript location, anyway.”
Mariette shied away a little when Dina leaned in towards her, looking a bit uncomfortable with the presence. Still, she held steady until Dina leaned back.
‘I was given an item to summon Dan and his girls, and I wished to brief you as to what you’ll find upon being summoned so you’d be ready when the time came. As well as to provide you your “Key”. … You are correct, this is not what I typically do, but I had to take measures to make sure I was ready for Justine’s attack.’
Dina’s hand was raised to her chin, pondering the situation, as her tail stopped swishing and instead was loosely curled around her waist. “Vampyr” She said, before hissing. “Nasty creatures.” She paused for a second.
“You think of yourself as strong, but this vampyr has you worried.” Dina said casually. “You don’t trust people, yet need allies.” She closed a step forward. “You’re hardly the only one.” She paused. “Well, how much you tell me is up to you, still if you don’t trust allies, you won’t be able to fight as one.”
‘… Dan is far less likely to betray me than most,’ Mariette idly commented. ‘Because I take it you’re not considering betraying me, are you?’ Just checking.
“Anyone would say no to that question.” Dina conceded. “Betrayers won’t ever admit it. Although to assuage your fears, let me tell you a couple of details. I know how betrayal feels like, both in my past life and in the present. Being a victim of it should make me very reluctant to do it. The only time I could feasibly refuse to do something is if I have to protect Penny’s charges.”
Not exactly the most encouraging answer, but it’d do. Mariette took a bit of a deeper breath and then started talking.
‘Should I summon you, it will likely be because Justine has already arrived at my doorstep. I command a considerable faction of Magical Girls within a mansion inside my Interdimensional Home, who will be attempting to fight them off. I will use my portals to place my allies where I believe they will be of most use, but you may also opt to just do whatever you feel is the most effective. I am up for suggestions. My mansion will be filled with traps to combat the enemy force, inside and outside, but the “key” I will give you will make sure they will not trigger on you, so keep it on you at all times. If you have any questions, I’d be happy to answer them.’
“Hmm. Traps, huh. I guess everything helps. I sometimes supplement my Reinforcement and magical beasts with those.” Dina said, as she drew once again closer, and then tried to lean in Mariette’s ear. “For starters,are you afraid of death? How are you holding up?”
Mariette staggered back a bit, not comfortable with Dina getting so close, her muscles tensing up a bit. Still, the message was delivered, and Mariette was left wondering why that was relevant. … And Mariette found she had only one answer.
‘… I am,’ she started, breathing out. ‘I’ve never died before. I don’t want to die. Dying means failing the mission Asengav has given me. Asengav doesn’t take kindly to failure,’ she said, finding oddly enough that it was the first time she confirmed this to herself. The fact she was afraid. ‘I’m preparing as best I can to make sure I live. I don’t yet see reason to fault my efforts,’ she responded to the other question, all while squeezing Bunny tightly between her arms.
“Chernobog instead of Byelobog, huh.” Dina said, eyeing Mariette, and then whispered once more. “Makes two of us… I’m terribly afraid of death. Even if I lived for over a hundred of years before becoming a magical girl. And that Puuchu said my reincarnation was broken too.” She paused. “I will see to it that you do not die. You seem a sweet girl, beneath past your duties and face. I can tell you how painful your yoke is, as you wince mentioning your master. And yet you don’t say a word… because you are in command of others.” She said, before retracting.
“Should this ever fail, I shall personally deal with your master. And should this mansion be ruined, I shall help you find refuge in the Sanctuary.” Dina said.
Mariette was a bit stunned. She felt like Dina had somehow uncovered a side of her that she hadn’t even realized she had. Which was… perplexing. Still, was she a sweet girl? Mariette could but wonder. One thing was clear, though. The awe she now had for what had been, at first glance, simply a quirky catgirl.
‘I am… very grateful. More than I can put into words…’ Mariette said, stumbling a bit on her words.
Dina’s mouth curled up in a cat smile. “I just state what I see with my heart, not my mind or powers.” She said, her tail upwards. “It looks like you’ve been running ragged to the point of tears and helplessness once or twice. Old habits die hard, and I’ve raised several children on my own.” Dina added. “Hey, want to see a little secret of mine?”
Mariette held quiet and nodded a bit to the first parts that Dina said, then… Secret? ‘Um. Yes, I would,’ Mariette answered, getting a bit curious as to what sort of secret Dina would show her.
Dina extended her hand, for Mariette to grab. “My potential as a magical girl… is beyond normal. I was fated to be Anastasia’s aide, and the bolsheviks drove me off. Almost a leader of a country. I lived to old age, and yet… when I contracted a Puuchu, I had so much power I turned partway into a cat.” Dina admitted. “Only a few people know this. Only Dan and a few others have seen a glimpse of it. Not even Penny. Not even the late Cindy.” She paused, as she breathed.
“Hen to pan.” She said, as her appearance shifted, and lines were seen all over her. Her hair flared gold, and her eyes turned red. Her magical power seemed to diminish, but it grew odd patterns…
And her hand was still inviting.
Mariette, currently more of a child interested in the story the adult was telling, was looking at Dina with one wide eye as she told her little story and then made herself flare like that… and the hand. One part of Mariette’s mind told her it was dangerous, this might be the moment she’d be betrayed and killed if she took the hand… but she’d felt the truth in what Dina’d said before, so she dismissed the thoughts, and reached forward to take the hand, her other arm still clutching Bunny.
“This eats magic like crazy, I’m told some Cradle can do it… Dunno how I can, I guess sometimes magic defies common sense.” Dina winced, as she held Mariette close to her.
And then time stopped for the briefest moment, in a circle around Mariette and Dina.
Lightning discharges adorned metal spikes that had grown through the ground, while a fireball and a large chunk of hail orbited around Dina’s head. All in the span of a brief time stop.
“This is what will happen should someone try to lethally wound one of my allies…”Dina said, slightly out of breath due to the sudden effort. “So let’s keep it a secret, mkay?”
Mariette held her breath as she was preparing for something to happen… and then she held still as she watched the various magical destructive energies that happened during a bit of stopped time. Yeah, that was… that was scary. Mariette swallowed a bit, and nodded. ‘I will,’ Mariette confirmed with two simple words. Because she sure didn’t want to anger her now…
“Was it too scary?” Dina said, making a conscious effort to return to her normal self. “I know it was. But Dan told me to spread joy, not fear. And I like the brilliance and smiles of people in the end.” Dina said, as she tilted her head. “Now then… I believe that’s been enough of strong feelings for now.” She clapped her hands. “And I must apologize. You probably wished to be more business oriented.”
“Perhaps a tea with extra jam and sweets is in order?My treat.”
Mariette did a slight nod to that first question. She really felt that she was the child here right now. ‘Th… It’s fine. I’ve… achieved what I came for, and more. And that… sound lovely,’ Mariette said, still a bit stunned.
“Now, let us. I know a place in this very Overcity…” She said.”Oh, and one more thing?”
“Can my key be a plush of yours? you seem to have good taste in those.” She added, trying to lead the way.
‘…’ Mariette took a long look at Bunny. Of course, Dina couldn’t have Bunny, specifically, but… ‘I’ll see what I can do.’
They then went and had tea with extra jam and sweets, and it was a nice little break. Then Mariette came home and had Ronja sew together a cat-plushie that was similar to Bunny that Taihei then could make a key out of, which then could be delivered to Dina via portal. And so it was.
A group of girls, some of them monster girls, dove into a building fleeing the Ascendancy. Magic missiles and projectiles burst through the walls, but they kept trying to flee. One of them pleaded to be saved, one yelled that they had to save themselves. Then they broke into the next room… and there was a portal. A gasp went through them. They knew who it symbolised, their leader rather didn't want to depend on her but right now they had no choice.
‘Come on!’ she yelled, and she and her crew leapt through the portal just as an Ascendancy agent appeared in the doorway behind them, and the portal closed.
They lay breathing heavily on the floor, as Mariette inspected them. They were in a random apartment with sealed windows, and Mariette stood there in dark dress and clutching her Bunny. Next to her stood Eli, her wings folded, keeping a check with Third Eye, just in case. The leader of the group quickly got up, preparing her bracers for combat.
‘What do you want!?’ she demanded.
‘For you to live,’ Mariette stated, plainly. ‘I'd rather not see you die like this when your strength could be needed later. Where should I drop you off?’
‘Don't bullshit me. You want us alive because without us, they'll come after you!’ the leader claimed, glaring at Mariette. She took a moment to inspect her, those behind the leader looking more appreciative.
‘… Believe what you like,’ Mariette simply stated. She opened a portal next to her. ‘This leads to the entrance of the Sanctuary, where people like you gather to grow strong. They shouldn't be able to hunt you down, there,’ she stated.
‘The Queen is dead. It's just a matter of time before they- h-hey!’ the leader called out, for her companions just headed for the portal, looking apologetic. The leader gave a singular grunt and then headed after them, visibly not liking this. Mariette closed the portal behind them, and then sighed out.
‘Who'd have thought saving lives was such a thankless job?’ she asked the nothingness, causing Eli to giggle a little.
"Greetings, Mariette Pendersen. I see you are fighting the good fight, are you not. How...interesting." The small furry creature talked, choosing to reveal himself after having slipped in amidst the confusion.
Mariette blinked a bit, and looked over at the sudden appearance of this furry little creature, Eli peeking over from behind her as she did. Confirming who’d spoken, she turned to face him.
‘Greetings, Puchuu. To whom do I owe the pleasure?’ Mariette asked in a completely blank tone and a straight face. Now, she’d heard of Puchuus, but she didn’t keep track of which Puchuu was which.
The creature looked at Mariette, and then swished his tail thoughtfully. “My name is Umukamui… I’ve come to have some sort of freelance agreement with Beacon. Something you might be interested in… according to what information I’ve heard.”
Mariette had heard the name of Umukamui before, but not seen him herself. Then, though, she was told something she did not expect. Freelance agreement with Beacon…? ‘… I’m listening,’ Mariette said plainly, and paid attention as indicated.
“I am supposed to assist neutrals to join Beacon’s effort in stabilizing the city. However, Ascendancy and I… let’s say we have different nuances on what qualifies as neutral. There’s wiggle room. Horrors might be stretching it, but it’s not the first time.” Umukamui said as he advance. “It’s pretty simple really. Just remember those who you are selflessly saving there’s other chances… and I’m willing to compromise. In return, I can… well, let you partake in the species of carte blanche I do have with Beacon nowadays. Within limits, of course.” Umukamui tilted his head.
Mariette listened silently, staring at Umu as he laid down the explanation. But, uh. ‘“Species of carte blanche”…?’ she questioned, voice unsure. ‘… Elaborate, please,’ Mariette requested.
“Literally, as long as I say it’s okay, they will take my word for it and pry not too much.” Umukamui leaned slightly forward.
‘… Huh,’ Mariette said, looking curiously at Umu. ‘You are aware of that I’m generally considered an enemy of Beacon, are you not? They may not react too kindly if they find out who it is you’re working with.’
“Generally… but don’t they say, the enemy of my enemy is my friend? I am willing to misunderstand that you are an enemy, as long as you do the same… while we pursue the same goal. I can also misunderstand that your girls are turning over a new leaf.”
‘… I see,’ Mariette stated, giving the little puffball a stare. She modestly suspected some form of trick, but she couldn’t necessarily turn down a potential chance to gain an advantage, now, could she? ‘So what will be asked of me?’
"Wetwork." Umukamui stated bluntly. "Staying clean means someone else gets the stain." He swished his tail once.
‘Heh. Fair enough,’ Mariette gave the slightest of a chuckle, nodding and then considering it. ‘I’ve not yet figured out what I desire out of this, but I’d like to give it an attempt, at the very least. It’s not too different from what I am already doing, after all. I’ll find a way I’ll profit from it.’
"It does not have to be right now. Ponder it. Being a picky eater is not something I do, and while I may decline in the future…I shall answer." The puchuu said. "Be sensible about who you tell about this".
‘At the moment, those will be none,’ Mariette answered, she had no intention of telling anyone about this even before the Puchuu’s reminder. ‘… Does this involve managing contact in some specific way? Do I need to show up at the right time somewhere, or will you give me a magic stone to contact me through?’ Mariette had been a fan of the former, others did the second pretty often.
"Magic...yeah right." A phone materialized on the girl's hands. "I made it so it is not easy to track, the battery lasts forever and you can play Destiny Great Order on it. My phone number is in there." He said, before attempting to leave.
‘… “Destiny Great Order”?’ Mariette asked, looking confused at the phone suddenly in her hand. ‘… Alright. Thank you. I’ll hear more from you later, then,’ Mariette simply said, letting the puchuu depart without issue if he wanted to.
… Huh. A connection to Beacon through a third party? … How was she going to use this to her advantage…?
Ronin winced a bit at Alex threat, but she went and kissed Lily anyway! Then Shoggy took the cupcake. No dare, huh? Well, that's fine. She probably should hang out more with Connie and Mia just because. But anyways, there was that one thing that she had to do. At some point she'd sneak in behind Faith to just whisper
‘I'm so happy you're alright,’ before sneaking off. Apparently Faith was in a disguise so shouldn't talk to her, but just couldn't wait with that one. Then off to do other stuff.
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.
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?
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.
Common: #69 Bellsprout #270 Lotad (in water) #285 Shroomish
‘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.
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?
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.’
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.
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…
‘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!’
… 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…!
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
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.
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.
‘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.
‘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 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.’
‘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.’
‘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?
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.
‘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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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… … …
‘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.
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.
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
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.
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.
‘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.
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…!
CRASH!
Karrablast gave a triumphant cry as it broke out of the Pokéball, using Endure again!
… Try again?
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
(couldn’t decide what image I wanted to use)
Highhill Town is a small, lively place that has seemingly stood atop this hill from time immemorial and never really changed. The atmosphere in Highhill Town is much fresher than surrounding places, the buildings are older and the work as honest as ever. The old town is populated by elders and younglings aplenty, and the town has a culture of their own. Plenty of Pokémon assist with the work, either as work-force or the animals that work is being done on.
One usually only crosses Highhill Town on a trip to or from Pureplain City. Regardless, it is a place of beauty. The fields around it are cultivated by hard-working people and Pokémon while the lake to the east gleams in the sunshine as fishermen attend it. There are small roads of asphalt spiraling up the hill to lead to all the old buildings, and children playing around in stairs or nature is very common.
It is said that a trainer praying at the nearby Silent Shrine will be blessed on their journey, so many travel to Highhill Town just for that. There’s also a set of very ancient rocks spread about town, pointing out towards the lake on top of the hill with some engravings. What they mean? Nobody knows. Also, Highhill Town is the residence of a certain Move Changer, whose abilities are sought by some new trainers. What he can do? Visit him to find out.
1. Find Pokémon. Can still search for Pokémon in towns~ 2. Talk. In cities 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.
Xaltwind
Lunamaria Hawke
Kon Kon
Floofenstein
RPM
Renose
Rune_Alchemist
Savo
