Name: Ronin and Miko. Deni and Eli. Real names, Denise and Elizabeth Walton. Age (Magical Girl): 11
Specialization: Air and Reinforcement. Weapon: The Swords. Melee/Mystic. Power: Twin Soul and Third Eye.
Stats: STR: 7 AGI: 7 VIT: 6 MAG: 7 LCK: 4
Perks:
Dual Weapon
Flexibility
Martial Training
Get out of Jail
Big Damn Heroes
Super Map
Patron: Solo Patron Benefits:
Free Agent
Genki Girl
Patron Drawbacks:
Alone
The barriers turned useful, and Ronin managed to arrive unscathed, despite touching the sharp items more than once. They looked back and… huh.
‘I guess the Walrus and the Carpenter ate all the oysters,’ Miko observed.
‘Does that, somehow, answer a riddle of these rooms or something?’ Ronin asked, confused.
‘I… don’t know,’ Miko responded, because she absolutely did not.
Then Alexander came through, and Ronin cheered for him. ‘Well done getting through! We’re smaller than you and it was still a doozy, but you got through anyway!’
‘Wait, but-’ Miko was about to say, but Alexander already grabbed the mallet. ‘- what if it’s trapped!?’ she finished her sentence after he’d already grabbed it.
‘Yeah, you focus on the door! We’ll just deal with anything this room throws at us!’ Ronin drew her sword, standing as a bodyguard watching Alexander’s back.
Miko sighed, and then did the same, drawing her sword, just in case, glancing around with her Third Eye.
__________________
Name: Mayra McCullough, or “Flame Demon”, or “Dragon-Spawn” Age: 15
Specialization: Fire & Darkness Weapon: Dragon body (Fists/Mystic) Power: Duplication
Mayra crouched, preparing herself with a grin as Gryphon three arrows to shoot at her. ‘Oh? You gonna shoot me?’ Mayra asked, and, well, indeed she was.
The dragon-girl blasted herself with a kick and a fireball to the side, jumping towards a shadow that she’d seen that she was going to use Darkness magic to sink into. It was very difficult to destroy someone who had sunk into darkness. Mayra chuckled mentally, as the first arrow was dodged by the act of jumping into the shadow…
… Only for Mayra to realize Brittany was left completely exposed in a silly sitting-position on the surface. So, turns out, Mayra cannot bring other people into her shadows. The Big Backpack is a Perk, and as such part of her magic, and did follow, but all of Brittany? Nope. And there was the second arrow going directly for Brittany.
Mayra blasted out, arms grabbing onto Brittany in tense alarm, as the two of them flew up into the air as Mayra managed to bring both of them safely out of the way of the second arrow, Mayra’s eyes somewhat wide as she had to act in all haste to counteract her stupid mistake.
That, unfortunately, meant she’d launched herself straight into the air, where she was an open target for Gryphon’s third arrow. Mayra was definitely going to try to fire and claw it, but given how quickly she’d had to act to save Brittany from the second arrow, it didn’t seem like she’d be in time…
… And that’s when Brittany can do her thing, if she so pleases.
Mayra landed back down, decently unscathed, her expression neutral as she looked over at where Rachel held Brittany. Was that Mayra’s fault? 100%. She’d been very confident she could keep the little pipsqueak safe. There was no way she wouldn’t be blamed for this later. And, honestly, quite rightly too. But, like, Mayra’s kinda bad at just handling all that, emotionally, so…
‘Oh, would you look at that,’ Mayra said, spinning back to face against Gryphon, her tone noticeably lacking her usual mirth. She sunk into a battle-stance, knees bent into a beastly prowl, clawed hands raised. ‘You just removed my reason for holding back. Also.’ Mayra threw a glance at the horizon, through the gate, at the truck approaching. ‘I’m about to get reinforcements.’
With that statement, Mayra suddenly split. With the Duplication power, Mayra was able to divide into several copies of herself, all as physically competent as herself. With this being the battlements or just inside the walls, there should be plenty of places to jump around to, as each of the agile dragon-girls took a different route to their target. Just needed to keep them distracted. A couple more fighters would be showing up soon… but if Mayra could punch Gryphon’s face first, that’d be sweet. Actual Mayra was hiding using Darkness, intending on circling around and getting into position to strike when the time came, watching Gryphon get chased by the duplicates first.
Name: Ronin and Miko. Deni and Eli. Real names, Denise and Elizabeth Walton. Age (Magical Girl): 11
Specialization: Air and Reinforcement. Weapon: The Swords. Melee/Mystic. Power: Twin Soul and Third Eye.
Stats: STR: 7 AGI: 7 VIT: 6 MAG: 7 LCK: 4
Perks:
Dual Weapon
Flexibility
Martial Training
Get out of Jail
Big Damn Heroes
Super Map
Patron: Solo Patron Benefits:
Free Agent
Genki Girl
Patron Drawbacks:
Alone
‘Well, what I am saying, is maybe the drink turns you smaller so that you could pass through safely?’ Ronin suggested.
‘… And if so, how were you intending on becoming your normal size again after getting to the other side?’ Miko questioned, frowning at Ronin.
‘Why, by drinking the potion on the other side, of course! … Or maybe just drinking it again!’ Ronin replied.
Alicia suggested those with Reinforcement magic should be able to make it through there…
‘Yeah, leave it to us!’ Ronin replied.
‘Me and sis are also the physically smallest, so we should have the least amount of trouble,’ Miko agreed, albeit worried about if there was a trap on the other side.
Ronin was quick to walk in. Instead of her feet landing on the floor, she created a small platform with Reinforcement magic, allowing her entry without touching any surface. Now, of course, she couldn’t stand up straight, but she was more than happy to just crawl through as quickly as possible on all fours, all while reinforcing herself as much as possible just in case of a sudden attack. Miko was right behind her, following the same tactic, prepared to defend her sister in case something happened to the one in front.
And if they did make it to the other side, they’d look for a way to get the rest of them through as well, assuming nothing was immediately threatening them.
__________________
Name: Mayra McCullough, or “Flame Demon”, or “Dragon-Spawn” Age: 15
Specialization: Fire & Darkness Weapon: Dragon body (Fists/Mystic) Power: Duplication
‘Hahaha!’ Mayra just laughed as she threw kicks and punches and claw-swiped accompanied by fire at the enemies around, swinging Brittany in the backpack around with her in whatever direction happened to be behind Mayra at the time. Going to assume this is just inside the gate right now, fighting whatever card warriors are around. Then, they clearly caught Gryphon’s attention. ‘Whoa!’ Mayra shouted out, suddenly having to propel herself with a fireblast and vaulting (with backpack) out of the range of a giant arrow, but then was slammed into by the quake and the wind launching her away, a bit shaken. ‘Heeey! Wait your turn!’ Mayra said, still grinning, then got defended by Rachel. ‘Heeey, the Inquisitor is working with me! That’s cool!’ Mayra grinned again as Rachel fighting with a dragon monster girl amused her.
‘Leave it… to me!’ she yelled, and jumped towards whatever buildings might be around… ‘Brit! Explosives!’ she requested, holding clawed hands back for Brittany to put things in.
Because believe it or not, Mayra would be able to throw those things way, WAAAY further than Brittany could!
And so, Mayra started lobbing things at the distant Griphon with thrown items. These being Brittany’s explosives, pieces of debris she just clawed off the nearby buildings or her own fireballs, she left the battle with the goons to the Mermaid Princess so she could pursue Griphon on land, throwing projectiles and dodging attacks while carrying Brittany with her!
Interdimensional Home - The dimension has collapsed.
Blood Magic
Overcity Shift
Interdimensional Tourist - Joe.
Hammerspace Handbag
Ally - Mayra
Awareness
Absolute Direction
Sealing
Cuddlespawn - Demogorgon, the Prince of Demons.
Patron: Asengav Patron Benefits:
Creeping Doom
Reasonable
Minions
Retrieval
Mystic Might
Mana Font
Patron Drawbacks:
Quick-Tempered
Mind-Bent - Removed.
Insomnia
Bane - Candles and cracked mirrors.
Health Sapping
Mariette’s hand was on the jewel at the top of the mirror… and with a lurch, it started. The nothingness within the portal started to swirl, one more whirlpool of magic being drained. Now that she had Asengav’s permission, there was no need to enter them. That said, now the mirror could be detected, and perhaps some disturbed people would come to do something about it. Once again, Mariette turned to the guardian of the mirror. For the previous mirror, it was Esther. For this mirror…
‘Xander,’ Mariette said, turning to look towards the dragon boy. He put the book down and stood up to look at her. ‘You know the duty which you were assigned now, even if it was Mayra’s originally.’ Not that Mayra could ever be rooted in place, and as such wasn’t really suited to be a guardian the way Esther was. ‘There is a possibility someone will arrive to try to take, destroy or pass through this mirror. Your job is to stop them. Survive, and I promise, I will free you from this leash.’
Xander frowned at her, but nodded. Mariette sighed out.
‘… But don’t die for it. It is not more important than your life. Defend it, but if you find yourself outmatched, flee through the mirror,’ Mariette told him.
‘… Huh,’ Xander looked surprised at her words. But he nodded again. ‘Alright. I’ll do so,’ he said. Mariette nodded back to him, that she had accepted his understanding. She’d now given the same warning to the guardians out of two out of five mirrors. She had no desire to see any of those she’d worked with to die. However, saying that warning from now on… would be more difficult.
She gestured to the queen, and that it was time to open a portal to the next mirror. By her own estimations, this was when the encounter would happen. She prepared herself as a portal opened, and…
‘Mariette,’ the sprite’s voice was raised before Mariette had even walked through the portal. ‘What do you think you’re doing?’
The room was a proper museum. Walls displaying various artifacts, riches in grandeur. This was the grand hall of a collector, a man with magical connections so frantically trying to collect magical items, who had been drawn to Penrose, living on the outskirts of town. As Ronja and Suzette had suggested, hiding the tree in the forest, hiding the mirror among a trove of other magical artifacts. Various artifacts were hanging on the walls, with magic glass protecting it, with nametags on all within this windowless room with white walls. The owner of the collection had been mind-controlled by Ronja’s threads for a while now, and would protect his collection to the last against any intruders, which just happened to also include the mirror…
But he wasn’t here right now.
Instead, before the mirror, flew Lea, glaring at Mariette, looking a tad upset. Asengav’s most dedicated and closest follower, her “spokeswoman”, the one who kept him updated. Most of the time, information to Asengav goes through her. But this time, Mariette had side-stepped her entirely and gone directly to her lord, at the moment where it mattered the most.
Besides the green sprite, Suzette and Ronja stood at the side. Both looked pretty calm. Suzette, blonde empath, smiled and waved to Mariette, while Ronja the blind arachnid monster girl was spinning some reinforcement web in her hands. On the other side stood the smaller Victoria and the taller Tullia, the two ice-specialized girls, Tullia standing with her staff in the ground and looked very confused between Lea and Mariette, while Victoria narrowed her gaze looking at the queen behind Mariette. Also here was Freya, the half-snake monster-girl, but she was looking away and like she honestly didn’t want to be here, clutching one arm over her chest and the other over her head…
Lea had gathered as many as she could that were fit for fighting, Mariette observed. This was what she'd expected. Their operator had seen them through her cameras by the first mirror and notified the rest, Lea had been gathering the girls while they were at the second, and now they had come to intercept them by the third. That's why they had her place cameras by each mirror, after all. She was watching, even now.
‘Well?’ Lea asked, demanding an answer.
‘Quick action was required,’ Mariette replied, having already prepared her speech in her head. ‘Wonderland’s invasion is occupying the forces of Penrose, and the queen herself has agreed to help our cause, with the assumption we’re acting immediately. Asengav’s will will be done, then Wonderland can claim what is left.’ It was fortunate that Mariette was the one with the lie-detecting power. It would have been troublesome if Lea also had this ability. Lea would not be sated by their words, however.
‘How can you possibly trust HER word!? To let her in last second on this plan Asengav has crafted for longer than you’ve been alive!?’ Lea was not happy. ‘She’s the one who’s going to-’
‘She’s my mother,’ Mariette stated, a statement that caused numerous looks from the other present girls. ‘who has graciously decided to help her daughter out. That’s… something mothers do, right?’ she asked, looking to Suzette and Ronja. She knew Suzette was, is, a mother since before becoming a Magical Girl, and Ronja had her “spider babies” phase before. Suzette bit together, losing her happy expression as her one sensitive topic was raised, while Ronja giggled a bit next to her.
‘Even then…’ Lea said, determined to get a word in.
‘Besides…’ It was time to put her in her place. ‘Asengav has already agreed with me. The ritual is underway. In this world, I am the champion of Asengav. Arguing against my decision is arguing against Asengav himself. So step in line, Lea.’ Mariette declared, putting on a determined face. Internally, her heart was going a million miles a minute, but that was besides the point.
Lea did not reply, merely floated with an angry expression in mid-air, looking down at Mariette with her usual look of superiority.
‘I think she got you there, Lea,’ Suzette jeered with a grin from the side.
‘Yeah, I think I’m following Mariette on this one,’ Victoria chuckled on the other side.
‘I’m not sure how we got here, I think we really should be working together right now,’ Tullia said, looking unsure but still determined.
‘Yes, the ritual has started. It is time to get a move on, or all you with pants are going to be caught with them down when our enemies come after us,’ Ronja the half-spider told.
Freya just grunted. This all… was so petty and unnecessary, she thought.
Lea, not losing her expression of one of who is in control, eventually spoke.
‘Very well. I will relent,’ she said, to Mariette’s relief. ‘But first, I would like the answer to two questions.’
Mariette stayed tense, as Lea now looked to the queen instead.
‘Why is Mariette not travelling with her own portals?’ she asked, as the portals the queen opened were reddish in frame, with a thorny vine engraving and carrying Wonderland’s sigil, instead of just the round holes in reality Mariette makes. ‘What is the necklace that Mariette is now wearing?’ Lea followed up with the second question.
Mariette stood firm, not betraying any emotions. It wasn’t like she was completely unprepared for this question. But… now that it came, she wasn’t confident in her prepared lie.
She’d be quiet long enough that the queen could give her own answer, but otherwise she would eventually speak up herself.
Anise simply nodded with satisfaction on the first two things that he said. Then, though…
‘… Getting in my own way?’ she repeated what he said in a mutter while looking down into the ground, mostly to herself. Though, she then looked back to him as he kept talking. Then, on that she’s the kind that wouldn’t like to be handed an answer… ‘Darn straight,’ she said with another nod.
‘Yeah, let’s go,’ she agreed, before telling Meditite to keep an eye out for them with Psychic powers as they advanced through the woods.
They wandered, stepping beyond old ruins of rocks and tightly grown forest. Still, beyond minding not to step on Vileplumes they were ignored by the denizens of the forest. So, when they had walked far enough, the trees opened up to clearing.
In the otherwise tight woods they’d passed through, here there was plenty of room. A sense of peace could be felt around this area. In the center stood a single, great, moss-covered rock. It extruded some form of magnificent energy. Before it, rested a single, large Pokémon, and two lower evolutions of it. The big, green dinosaur-like Pokémon with flower-petals around its neck lifted its head to gaze at the newcomers, and the two playing smaller version of it with leaves on the top of their heads stopped to look towards them curiously.
Pokédex Entry #154 – Meganium, the Herb Pokémon. The fragrance of its flower soothes and calms emotions, anyone who stands next to them will feel immediately refreshed. It uses this becalming scent to blunt a foe’s fighting spirit. Its breath has the power to revive dead grass and plants, making them healthy again. A forest with Meganium in it will never die.
Pokédex Entry #152 – Chikorita, the Leaf Pokémon. It uses the leaf on its head to check for humidity and warmth, seeking towards sunlight. A sweet aroma spreads from its leaf, which calms those who smell it and creates a friendly atmosphere. A docile and friendly Pokémon, domesticated Chikoritas are commonly paired with children, but rare in wild. Loves to sunbathe.
It would be reasonable to assume the feeling of peace in the area was partly due to the Meganium and Chikorita’s scent.
Confirming they weren’t looking like threats, the bigger Pokémon put down its head again and continued resting.
‘Oh. I’ve heard about this place,’ Anise made a noise of sudden realization. ‘It was considered sacred by the people of Stillwood’s past… a gathering spot, but also said to house a mystery…’ Anise said, as she tried recalling something she might have been told or read somewhere, frowning a little as she did.
Ancient Stillwoods
Perhaps once upon a time people had a settlement here. Regardless, it was a long time ago and now nature had reclaimed this place many times over. A pathway can be taken past ancient rocks, but here stands even more ancient trees. Like in Stillwood Village, the trees cover up the overhead so little light comes through, but there is enough light to see. The place is thick with trees, ruins, moss and rocks. Navigating can be a challenge, but fortunately the forest here is not particularly deep. However, the inexperienced would be advised against trying to engage any of the Pokémon around here… and to perhaps bring a gas-mask, because the air is so thick with pollen that some people might have trouble breathing.
1. Search the area. Maybe find a Pokémon that isn’t immediately obvious, look for items or inspect the ruins for interesting things? 2. Train Pokémon. Just be aware that most things here can probably eat you alive. 3. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 4. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 5. Archie. The Gym Leader of Stillwood Village is somewhere in the forest. 6. Area Specific: Last Area. This ancient forest isn’t particularly deep. You could get to the end in moments if you ignore everything else. Question is, what’s there?
Anise stood and stared at him as he started explaining himself, crossing her arms as she did. Froakie stood next to her, saw how she stood, and also crossed his arms next to her. And then…
‘I think you’re worrying yourself too much,’ she stated. ‘And if that’s too shallow an answer for you…’ she closed her eyes to think a little first.
‘I don’t see you turning out like him. Granted, I can’t see anyone ending up like him, but still. Despite your bleak outlook, you’ve broken out of your cage and challenged this world. You’ve given yourself a choice, and you’re fighting for it. I’d say you deserve to be a little selfish. If you being “selfish” is just you being nice to people, then who cares, really? As for the being put into danger part…’ She smirked the slightest.
‘Correct me if I’m wrong, but I think your Pokémon are alright with being put in danger for you. They want to grow stronger, too. If you’re really seeking affirmation, then I think you should ask them. If your Pokémon approves, then what can you be doing wrong?’ she said, shrugging.
‘That, and had you actually intruded on me and the Breloom, I’d have been mad. That was my scene to prove myself in,’ she continued.
Ancient Stillwoods
Perhaps once upon a time people had a settlement here. Regardless, it was a long time ago and now nature had reclaimed this place many times over. A pathway can be taken past ancient rocks, but here stands even more ancient trees. Like in Stillwood Village, the trees cover up the overhead so little light comes through, but there is enough light to see. The place is thick with trees, ruins, moss and rocks. Navigating can be a challenge, but fortunately the forest here is not particularly deep. However, the inexperienced would be advised against trying to engage any of the Pokémon around here… and to perhaps bring a gas-mask, because the air is so thick with pollen that some people might have trouble breathing.
1. Search the area. Maybe find a Pokémon that isn’t immediately obvious, look for items or inspect the ruins for interesting things? 2. Train Pokémon. Just be aware that most things here can probably eat you alive. 3. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 4. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 5. Archie. The Gym Leader of Stillwood Village is somewhere in the forest. 6. Area Specific: Last Area. This ancient forest isn’t particularly deep. You could get to the end in moments if you ignore everything else. Question is, what’s there?
Archie ran off, and Anise was looking at the TM in her hands when Basil suggested catching whatever evolves into them. That’s when Anise gained a sudden focus in her gaze and made up her mind.
She advanced on a Breloom. The modestly large kangaroo-mushroom wasn’t so inattentive as to not notice, and turned to face her.
‘I am going to be facing a legendary Pokémon. I am going to need the strength of strong Pokémon. I’d like you to come with me,’ Anise stated to the Breloom, her tone serious.
The Breloom inspected her, the seriousness of the tone getting into its expression. After a second’s consideration, Beloom raised its claws and spread its legs, taking on a fighting-stance against Anise.
‘You want me to prove myself?’ Anise asked. She took a deep breath… and then took her own fighting stance, looking ready to square off, fists raised, legs bent. ‘Alright! I’m ready!’
Utter confusion entered Breloom’s expression. The Pokémon looked over to various companions a bit further away, and they had no answers. It lowered its fighting stance, apparently no longer intending on fighting.
‘Hey! I’m serious here!’ Anise called out, sensing that she was not being taken seriously. She took a step forward… when the Breloom simply spun around, swinging its tail. As the tail did, it released a cloud of spores. ‘Uh-oh,’ Anise skipped backwards, having to spin around and dash away a couple meters, avoiding a Vileplume flower as she did. She then turned around, met with Breloom just looking at her with a neutral expression through the cloud of spores, before it turned away and just walked back into the forest.
Anise took a moment to just stare back at Breloom, contemplating, before walking back to Basil.
‘Alright. Fine. I’ll catch a Shroomish,’ Anise told him, this particular venture apparently having ended in failure. ‘It was worth a shot.’
In any case, at some point there Basil started talking about that Anise was kinda amazing. She looked surprised at that, and then returned to her default expression as Basil continued his story. At the end of what he was saying… she crossed her arms.
‘… But unlike the rest from your world, you’re out here proving something. What with that gnawed-on arm and helping me and whatever you did with those Psychic-type Pokémon,’ she said. ‘But I’ll bite. What are your goals, then? So I may judge them for myself.’
What does Basil do? Having this conversation in the midst of these old buildings in this old forest holding Pokémon with a higher level than anything they’re currently packing.
Ancient Stillwoods
Perhaps once upon a time people had a settlement here. Regardless, it was a long time ago and now nature had reclaimed this place many times over. A pathway can be taken past ancient rocks, but here stands even more ancient trees. Like in Stillwood Village, the trees cover up the overhead so little light comes through, but there is enough light to see. The place is thick with trees, ruins, moss and rocks. Navigating can be a challenge, but fortunately the forest here is not particularly deep. However, the inexperienced would be advised against trying to engage any of the Pokémon around here… and to perhaps bring a gas-mask, because the air is so thick with pollen that some people might have trouble breathing.
1. Search the area. Maybe find a Pokémon that isn’t immediately obvious, look for items or inspect the ruins for interesting things? 2. Train Pokémon. Just be aware that most things here can probably eat you alive. 3. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 4. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 5. Archie. The Gym Leader of Stillwood Village is now right in front of you, intending on dashing away. 6. Area Specific: Last Area. This ancient forest isn’t particularly deep. You could get to the end in moments if you ignore everything else. Question is, what’s there?
Name: Ronin and Miko. Deni and Eli. Real names, Denise and Elizabeth Walton. Age (Magical Girl): 11
Specialization: Air and Reinforcement. Weapon: The Swords. Melee/Mystic. Power: Twin Soul and Third Eye.
Stats: STR: 7 AGI: 7 VIT: 6 MAG: 7 LCK: 4
Perks:
Dual Weapon
Flexibility
Martial Training
Get out of Jail
Big Damn Heroes
Super Map
Patron: Solo Patron Benefits:
Free Agent
Genki Girl
Patron Drawbacks:
Alone
‘Hey, at least there’s nobody here!’ Ronin said in response to Alicia saying that this passage wasn’t as secret as they thought. Immediately, everyone had agreed that the wine-bottle saying “DRINK ME” was an obvious trap.
‘Hmm,’ Miko frowned looking at the map, trying to see if there was any sense to be made from the bunches of lines all layered right on top of one another. ‘Well, yeah, Alicia can shine through the darkness, and Alexander could make the toughest armor so no matter the trap it shouldn’t hurt us, or Gaia could just send in branches to trigger the traps instead of us-’
She had to suddenly stop mid-ramble and throw up a barrier in-between her sister and the wine-bottle that Ronin had been reaching for. Sure, absolutely everyone else probably could have been ready to do that, but Miko did it, too. ‘Sis, what are you doing?’
‘I mean…’ Ronin waved her hands a little in the air. ‘I’m not sure this world follows the same logic as the real world? Just because this IS Wonderland, which follows some kind of fairy-tale rules, then maybe just because, the drink is ACTUALLY the solution? I know in the story it made Alice change size, but I kinda got curious what it would actually do? Besides, you’re all with me, there’s no way I’d not be fine, even if it was a trap!’ So Ronin confidently said. ‘Also, there was this one time I lost a date because I didn’t drink, and I don’t want to make that mistake again!’
‘Sis… no,’ Miko shook her head. ‘It could be deadly poison so potent we wouldn’t be able to do anything. Even if not, it could knock you out or turn you against us. That would endanger all of us. You wouldn’t want that, would you?’
‘… Okay, now you’re making me feel silly…’ Ronin smiled and scratched the back of her head. So, what’s the rest doing?
__________________
Name: Mayra McCullough, or “Flame Demon”, or “Dragon-Spawn” Age: 15
Specialization: Fire & Darkness Weapon: Dragon body (Fists/Mystic) Power: Duplication
So, for some reason Mayra rolled “Big Backpack” for a perk, but she’s had absolutely no use of it, because the perk has substantially clashed with Mayra’s theme.
However, now, Mayra has launched into the midst of the fighting, and she’s wearing this giant, red, backpack on her back.
And she’s put Brittany in it before leaping off the unicorn’s back to get into the battle.
So we have Mayra fiercely and excitedly rushing her opponents and clawing at them with streams of fire emerging from her in multiple directions, and if an opponent tries to flank her Brittany can throw chemistry or shit at them like a good little helper in the backpack. All flanks accounted for. Glorious.
So, no need to worry about Mayra, she’s in her element, the middle of the heat of battle, throwing fireballs and fireclaws., teaming up with mermaids to hunt creatures, seeing Rachel apparently being here too and she wanted to also jump in to team up with her because that was hilarious to her, being back-to-back badasses with Rachel would be cool. And that Gryphon… interesting foe, but she’d have to wait until the rest of the forces were thinned out a bit before Mayra could take her on. For now, she’d just make sure to dodge the huge arrows~
Interdimensional Home - The dimension has collapsed.
Blood Magic
Overcity Shift
Interdimensional Tourist - Joe.
Hammerspace Handbag
Ally - Mayra
Awareness
Absolute Direction
Sealing
Cuddlespawn - Demogorgon, the Prince of Demons.
Patron: Asengav Patron Benefits:
Creeping Doom
Reasonable
Minions
Retrieval
Mystic Might
Mana Font
Patron Drawbacks:
Quick-Tempered
Mind-Bent - Removed.
Insomnia
Bane - Candles and cracked mirrors.
Health Sapping
He’s not going to do anything. He’s not going to do anything. He’s not going to do anything. He’s not going to do anything.
It was very fortunate that Asengav wasn’t an empath, because if he was, Mariette’s emotions would surely have given her away.
Mariette opened her eyes as she felt her feet meet solid, back in the real world. She breathed in deeply, as she’d forgotten to breathe for a while, and it was unclear if there was oxygen at all in the world she had just entered, just a dark magic keeping Asengav’s chosen alive regardless. Behind her, the mirror’s grip intensified. What was merely a tug before suddenly became a proper whirlpool, as the magic of Penrose started to drain into it. In this state, the mirror would be simple to detect from the surface… which is why they couldn’t have started this ritual earlier. To be frank, they would have lost against the forces of Penrose, and Asengav knew it. The clever Horror he was, he’d been preparing his own operation to start this ritual… but Mariette had just jump-started it.
‘Mother…’ Mariette panted slightly, seeing the Queen before her. The Mint had found them? That was… somewhat worrying, but not something she was going to spend much time deliberating right now. Instead, while the Queen was shouting orders at her subordinate, Mariette turned her gaze to a hidden camera she knew was there, on a tree to her right. ‘Inform everyone. It is time,’ she simply told, knowing the person on the other side would know what she meant.
She then looked to Esther. ‘You know your duty. Guard this mirror…’ … Then she started whispering. ‘… but not with your life. If you face death, retreat through the mirror.’ The statement that would surely have confused any other agent of Asengav, who surely knew what price they would pay for failing their determined duty, gave absolutely no reaction from Esther. Esther, as ever the unmoving tree-woman, stood merely where she was, treelike and beautiful. Mariette was satisfied that she had understood.
With that, she would try to then open a portal herself to the next place… but probably fail. Very well. Normally, Mariette would be the one to bring her agents into the field. But suppose not, this time. ‘Very well. Let us proceed,’ Mariette then turned to the Queen, and then insisted on walking in first.
They were in a giant, abandoned warehouse. Scores upon scores of abandoned wares were strewn about the place. The place was in disrepair, and there were giant claw-marks all over the place, and scorch-marks of fire having burned the floor and walls all over. And in the middle…
A small dwelling had appeared. A small hut, built out of debris, with a small campfire, makeshift furniture, a pile of eaten bones… and a score of books. On one of the chairs, frowning down at a book, sat a draconic man, dark scales coloring his body, horns on his head, and a tail much like Mayra’s behind him. He looked up from his book and frowned at Mariette as she appeared. This was Xander, originating from this post.
‘Mariette…’ he spoke, staring at her.
‘Xander. How are…’ Mariette hesitated. ‘How are you doing?’ she asked, feeling a bit awkward.
‘I remain in my prison. But, these books you have provided…’ he said, lifting a book. It was a children’s picture-book with simple words. It had been Mariette’s idea, to provide him with these books. ‘I am learning, slowly. Mayra is not…’ he stopped for a little. ‘… not easy to understand as she teaches, a lot of the time. But I have learned enough to understand. But why have you come?’
Xander, as a dragon, had originally been brought here at Mayra’s request. She’d framed the move as “having a dragon guard the mirror”, but secretly, she’d have wanted to bring her “Georgie” to this world with her, her former boyfriend when they were both dragons. Then Ruby had come along, and turned Xander into a being just like her, just as Mayra had wanted. Mariette had then been forced to sell keeping Xander here to Lea and Asengav, who found out immediately about Xander’s transformation, but not about how it had happened. Still, unlike Esther, Mayra was often not around to guard the mirror she was charged with, so having Xander here in her stead worked out for all sides. Mariette had promised to let him out of his cage in controlled circumstances, but the time for those circumstances hadn’t arrived yet.
‘I have come to use the mirror you’ve been tasked with guarding. Excuse us,’ she simply said, intending to just walking past Xander. She had not fully explained to Xander what it was he was guarding. He frowned as Mariette walked past, hoping he would not mind the other being walking with her.
The mirror was located in a box inside the warehouse. Mariette would find it, send a few quick bolts of light magic at the corners, and the door would tumble open. Inside, an ornate mirror with a portal leading to nothingness was once again visible…
‘I know,’ Anise said. ‘To her, I was just a bystander.’
She looked a little surprised at Basil’s “partners” line, looking up from having been looking down into the ground and towards him with a slightly raised eyebrow. ‘Heh,’ she made a small noise of amusement. ‘I suppose we’ll just simply have to see if she throws me out the door.’
Then he talked about where to go next.
‘Hm. I’m not sure I want to go ask for favors until I’ve trained my Pokémon. I must make sure I am ready for the encounter, when it is time. So perhaps Cooldome City would be good. I also feel that perhaps, since my goal now is to become stronger, challenging the gyms is a natural continuation. I do know there’s a Pokémon Gym in both Freecape Town, Raremine Town… and here. Albeit, I saw that giant Lilligant. I am not sure if we’re its match,’ she commented. Then the part about the herb store. Anise looked a little curious. ‘I’m fine with that.’
Then, when they’d arrived in the new area, a much wilder area, Anise merely gave a mock sigh at Basil’s excuse. ‘I clearly did the right thing, following. Still, I suppose it is pretty,’ she nodded. At suggesting helping the Jumpluffs, Anise nodded.
‘Alright,’ she said, and cast out another Pokéball, and another Pokémon joined Meditite before her.
Pokédex Entry #656 – Froakie, the Bubble Frog Pokémon. It secretes flexible and delicate bubbles from its chest and back which absorb damage that would otherwise damage it. While it is known for a happy-go-lucky attitude, it has astute awareness of its surroundings.
‘Froakie, Meditite. Climb the trees. We’re helping the Jumpluffs get free. Cooperate with Crocus and Glory,’ she said, gesturing to Basil’s Pokémon.
‘Juuump!’ called a happy Jumpluff in reply. It should be noted that, despite being stuck, the Jumpluffs were all smiles. Still, through united effort, Glory cutting some vines, Crocus using his own vines to pull them loose, Meditite using some psychic power to remove obstacles and Froakie using some frog-hands to help pull them free. With their united help…
The Jumpluffs came loose. They gently drifted to the forest floor, avoiding the flowers. Being constantly all smiles, they called. ‘Fluuff!’ as they then floated up into the air again, drifting off into various directions in the forest, looking all happy… and one of them drifted immediately into another mess of vines and got tangled. Luff?’ it asked.
A childish little laughter came as one boy, that had apparently been watching them, approached. Basil, of course, had seen this boy before, very recently.
‘The Jumpluffs here get stuck all the time. They like hanging out with their various friends here, but this forest really isn’t suited for their flying needs. Buuut, they’re strong enough that they can free themselves whenever they waaant~’ the boy said, smiling.
‘Buuut, they recognize when someone wants to help them, and they accept your kindness! As do I, so as a thanks for your help, I’d like to give you these!’ he said, and handed something to both Basil and Anise.
Basil obtained TM130 Mega Drain!
‘Um, thank you,’ Anise said, frowning just the slightest. If Basil took a close look, looks like she got the TM115: Bullet Seed.
‘I hope you’ll continue to be kiiind~’ he spread his arms, then turned around with the intention to dash back into the forest…
What does Basil do?
Ancient Stillwoods
Perhaps once upon a time people had a settlement here. Regardless, it was a long time ago and now nature had reclaimed this place many times over. A pathway can be taken past ancient rocks, but here stands even more ancient trees. Like in Stillwood Village, the trees cover up the overhead so little light comes through, but there is enough light to see. The place is thick with trees, ruins, moss and rocks. Navigating can be a challenge, but fortunately the forest here is not particularly deep. However, the inexperienced would be advised against trying to engage any of the Pokémon around here… and to perhaps bring a gas-mask, because the air is so thick with pollen that some people might have trouble breathing.
1. Search the area. Maybe find a Pokémon that isn’t immediately obvious, look for items or inspect the ruins for interesting things? 2. Train Pokémon. Just be aware that most things here can probably eat you alive. 3. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 4. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 5. Archie. The Gym Leader of Stillwood Village is now right in front of you, intending on dashing away. 6. Area Specific: Last Area. This ancient forest isn’t particularly deep. You could get to the end in moments if you ignore everything else. Question is, what’s there?
Name: Ronin and Miko. Deni and Eli. Real names, Denise and Elizabeth Walton. Age (Magical Girl): 11
Specialization: Air and Reinforcement. Weapon: The Swords. Melee/Mystic. Power: Twin Soul and Third Eye.
Stats: STR: 7 AGI: 7 VIT: 6 MAG: 7 LCK: 4
Perks:
Dual Weapon
Flexibility
Martial Training
Get out of Jail
Big Damn Heroes
Super Map
Patron: Solo Patron Benefits:
Free Agent
Genki Girl
Patron Drawbacks:
Alone
‘Huh… I see,’ Miko said, a bit surprised about Brittany’s situation.
‘I’m sure she’s fine! Mayra’s a bit off her rocker, but she’s not malicious. Mostly,’ Ronin encouraged, while Miko looked down onto the map. Miko frowned, staring down into the map…
‘I don’t know if this will be to much help, all the floors are pasted on top of one another with no distinction…’ Though, she did see that. She didn’t know what to make of it, but she may as well say it. ‘I just saw an enemy and an ally in the same location suddenly vanish. I don’t know what to make of it.’
‘Then let’s head inside and verify for ourselves! Let’s go!’ Ronin called, intending to rouse people and then also start to dash inside, if the door for it was open.
__________________
Name: Mayra McCullough, or “Flame Demon”, or “Dragon-Spawn” Age: 15
Specialization: Fire & Darkness Weapon: Dragon body (Fists/Mystic) Power: Duplication
‘Hehehe, good!’ Mayra laughed with approval as Brittany started to sing. Then she turned, pointing forward at the enemy castle.
‘CHAAAARGE!’ she then called, having the unicorn dash headlong at the enemy fortress. Now, she didn’t exactly have much in the way of a plan once arriving at the castle, but leaping off the unicorn to blast herself up to the battlement sounded like an excellent start. Besides, she had a force of water-based creatures going against a stone wall over here, and Jelena told Mayra that Water beats Rock, so!
Interdimensional Home - The dimension has collapsed.
Blood Magic
Overcity Shift
Interdimensional Tourist - Joe.
Hammerspace Handbag
Ally - Mayra
Awareness
Absolute Direction
Sealing
Cuddlespawn - Demogorgon, the Prince of Demons.
Patron: Asengav Patron Benefits:
Creeping Doom
Reasonable
Minions
Retrieval
Mystic Might
Mana Font
Patron Drawbacks:
Quick-Tempered
Mind-Bent - Removed.
Insomnia
Bane - Candles and cracked mirrors.
Health Sapping
Mariette stood silent, slightly confused as the Queen took out a bird, and some tea, and started sipping on it. And her next words… okay. It was up to Mariette, apparently. Mariette took a deep breath.
‘Very well,’ Mariette said, turning around towards Esther and the dark mirror (in time to miss the Queen looking off in a seemingly random direction). ‘I’ll be right back.’ Mariette, feeling all tense, walked by Esther as she headed for the absolute darkness of the mirror. She hesitated in front of it. The rocky frame looked as if it led directly into pure void… and the reality wasn't that far off.
Mariette closed her eyes. They would not aid her where she was going. Then she stepped forth, into the mirror, letting the darkness envelop her.
She stood in nothingness. There was no temperature. There was no matter. Yet, out there, something existed beyond her. An eternal unsettlement, a feeling that something was wrong in the world, a pressure on her mind that threatened to wipe her clean out of existence… and a feeling of being watched. Mariette knew better than to appear like this for trifle matters. As such, the void ensnared her, and waited for her words.
‘The-’ Mariette stuttered, a feeling of panic coming unbidden into her mind. What if it could see its brainwashing had been undone? Regardless, she had a plan in mind. She would claim that the Wonderland was threatening to destroy the Nexus, and that they had no choice but to start now or they’d risk losing all their work…
‘The plan… it is in-’ No, wait. Mariette suddenly had an idea.
‘We should start it now.’ Mariette had to take a moment to grasp onto what she just said, and then keep speaking.
‘The forces of Wonderland and Penrose are in battle. They are distracted, engaging one another in their futile struggles, and will have little strength with which to engage us. What’s more, the Queen of Wonderland has mistaken me for her daughter,’ if the Queen heard her, Mariette would explain it was a necessary lie she needed to tell her Patron, ‘and would defend me with her life. We can use this. Even if the forces of Penrose turns around to battle us, she will fight them for us.’
‘The fulfillment of this mission has been my only goal for my stay in this city, and I believe the time has come. I know it is a little early, but I firmly believe… The time is now.’
So she said, and then stood firm and silent, letting the darkness judge her words.
‘Until next time. We will keep you updated,’ Jacques said, as he helped Kalmia back up on the ancient dinosaur he came on, and Kalmia took Espurr with her for now, and then they were off.
‘…’ Anise merely nodded along with that being a lot, and then Basil asked her if she was okay. ‘I am okay. A little overwhelmed, but okay. … It wasn’t my scene. I am used to being quiet,’ she said, then frowned a little. ‘I did not get the same job offer. She didn’t even look at me. … I suppose I cannot follow?’ she asked.
‘I will accompany you. I feel like, if I were to walk away now, I’d miss something else,’ she said. As she did, she took out a Pokéball and sent out one of her trusted companions. Meditite took form, standing on small legs below her and starting to walk along with them.
Pokédex Entry #307 – Meditite, the Meditate Pokémon. It is found deep in mountains, meditating for hours on end and surviving on a berry a day. It trains its spirit, and by heightening its inner strength it somehow achieved levitation. It also enjoys daily yoga workouts.
So, they walked around town. The scene was the most excitement Stillwood Village had in years, so there was plenty of discussion about what happened back there going about, but few could actually place Basil as having been involved in the incident. If Basil was quiet, then so was Anise, or they could have discussions. Regardless, eventually, they found themselves surrounded by thick trees and even thicker foliage, and then Meditite held its hand up and stopped in front of them, stopping them from advancing. That was because there was a large, red flower ahead of them.
‘… I must ask. Were you aware where you were walking?’ Anise asked, sounding concerned.
Ancient Stillwoods
Perhaps once upon a time people had a settlement here. Regardless, it was a long time ago and now nature had reclaimed this place many times over. A pathway can be taken past ancient rocks, but here stands even more ancient trees. Like in Stillwood Village, the trees cover up the overhead so little light comes through, but there is enough light to see. The place is thick with trees, ruins, moss and rocks. Navigating can be a challenge, but fortunately the forest here is not particularly deep. However, the inexperienced would be advised against trying to engage any of the Pokémon around here… and to perhaps bring a gas-mask, because the air is so thick with pollen that some people might have trouble breathing.
There were old ruins on the way, old rocks placed in arcs and revealing the sites of old buildings, but aside from that there were big, beautiful flowers spread across the forest floor, one of which Meditite had just saved them from walking into..
Pokédex Entry #45 – Vileplume, the Flower Pokémon. It is said to have the world’s largest petals, they’re heavy with toxins and spores and difficult to hold up. As it walks, the petals flap and scatters extremely allergenic and toxic pollen. It lures prey in with its pretty petals and douses it in toxic spores, then simply waits for them to be immobilized before moving in and devouring them.
Other than that, there were larger green Pokémon with bouquets in their hands walking around like they owned the place, glancing occasionally towards them, or blue Pokémon drifting in the air hitting into tree after tree, as well as Brelooms that were either practicing or just hanging about. These were all the evolved versions of the Pokémon usually seen in Stillwood Village, and they saw no reason to hide here.
Pokédex Entry #407 – Roserade, the Bouquet Pokémon. It lures prey in with sweet aroma from its flowers, and then downs them with thorny whips hidden in its arms. In battle, it presents itself as if dancing, all while striking with whips lines with deadly toxins. It can also spew poison. The sweeter its toxin smells, the more potent it is.
Pokédex Entry #189 – Jumpluff, the Cottonweed Pokémon. It deftly controls its cotton-puff spores to float. Caught by seasonal winds, it lets itself be carried across the globe and spread their spores. Even in the fiercest of winds, it can control its fluff to make its way in any direction it wants, somehow. When it encounters cold air, it lands.
… These Jumpluffs had gotten themselves stuck in the trees, though.
Pokédex Entry #286 – Breloom, the Mushroom Pokémon. It lives in warm and humid climates feeding on trees and plants in fields or forests. It’s a powerful fighter, with light footwork and punches that stretch, it’s said to put pro boxers to shame. The seeds on its tail are poisonous and should not be eaten. It spreads poisonous spores from its head as it fights, taking advantage of the dazed opponent.
The creatures here were higher level than the creatures Basil would be used to finding in the wild, but fortunately they didn’t seem immediately hostile towards the intruding humans. That said, given how often the words “poison” and “toxic” appeared in their Pokédex entries, there was reason to be careful here.
Regardless, there might be rare Pokémon hiding out in here, or perhaps Basil was interested in what he could find at the other end of the forest? What would he do?
Oh, and there’s a kid over there doing a hand-stand among the multiple Vileplume flowers. The same teal-haired kid with the flower cape that had previously been standing on top of a giant Liligant. Yes, that one.
1. Search the area. Maybe find a Pokémon that isn’t immediately obvious, look for items or inspect the ruins for interesting things? 2. Train Pokémon. Just be aware that most things here can probably eat you alive. 3. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 4. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 5. Archie. The Gym Leader of Stillwood Village is doing a hand-stand among the Vileplume flowers. Walking, upside-down, on his hands. Yepp. 6. Area Specific: Last Area. This ancient forest isn’t particularly deep. You could get to the end in moments if you ignore everything else. Question is, what’s there?
‘Oh?’ Jacques accepted the piece of paper and inspected it, adjusting his glasses as he did. ‘Very well. I’ll make sure he’s informed.’
Then, Basil showed interest in the job Sylvia was offering. Kalmia frowned, her expression containing something of regret, but Sylvia looked nothing but pleased.
‘Good. We can’t speak about it here, though. When you’re ready, come to this address. Make sure to message me first so I will be able to be there to brief you,’ Sylvia said, writing down an address and then giving it to Basil.
Basil obtained Bigfjord City Address! Basil obtained Sylvia’s number!
‘I am going to head to find what the local police officer has found. For now, good day, sir Basil,’ Sylvia said, nodding to him and then moving off, her hair and dress perhaps a bit too eye-catching among all the green in this village.
‘I can only wish you to be careful,’ Kalmia said, looking concerned. ‘I have to get back to my laboratory in Pureplain City. That’s where I can be of the most use. I must examine Espurr thoroughly,’ she said, looking down at the little guy. ‘Of course, I am going to need you to fly me home,’ she said, turning to Jacques.
‘Fu-fu. Using the Elite Four as your personal ferryman. Aren’t you a bold one?’ Jacques seemed amused.
‘Oh, don’t you dare. The situation called for it. Basil needed us both,’ Kalmia remained unperturbed as she turned back to Basil and Anise. ‘Can I trust you to handle yourselves for now?’
Regardless, otherwise what needed to be covered in this meeting was done. Kalmia would bring Espurr with her for now, unless Basil had any objections.
Stillwood Village
Inside these calm forests lies a village completely in-tune with nature. The buildings are built around or in the trees of wood and stone, the light shining onto the village stifled by the great trees above. In the air, meeting your nose as soon as you tread into the village, is filled to the brim with the smell of forest and spores. It’s a wild smell, but somehow it is extremely relaxing and any worries seem to be stifled before the calming village ahead where everyone is always so calm and happy, wild Pokémon walking freely on the roads of the place. This is Stillwood Village, the most relaxing place imaginable, it’s people in touch with nature and wishing the best to all those who come to their cozy and ancient little home.
Wild Grass Pokémon freely wander the streets, spreading their spores into the air which the townspeople actively walk through every single day. They are all smiles, very helpful, the entire village and all visitors afflicted by the relaxing sensations brought by the spores during their stay in Stillwood Village. However, these spores are the reason quite a few avoid Stillwood Village, arguing that it messes with one’s mind. It is extremely rare that a member of Stillwood Village moves out of the village, after all. It will also quickly become evident just how little the members of the village care about the world at large, all their worries gone by the relaxing spores and just continue living, no troubles in the slightest.
That’s Stillwood Village for you.
1. Find Pokémon. Can still search for Pokémon in cities~ 2. Talk. In cities, there are considerably more people one can talk to. Talking can give you info on local rumors and such. 3. Exit. Exit the town to any of the connected areas. 4. Specify. If you specify what you want to do, the GM will take it into account and tell the result. 5. Trigger random event. Force the GM to use his imagination to make a scenario for you. 6. Notable Places. Visit any of the places in the city! 6.1. Pokémon Center. Heal all your Pokémon. 6.2. PokéMart. Go to a store and buy things. 6.3. Pokémon Gym. ??? 6.4. Herb Store. Selling bitter medicine that is very good for your Pokémon! 6.5. Flower Shop. For decoration and for pleasant smells, the flower shop has the best selection in Isson! 6.6. Berry Garden. Allows trainers to rent earth to plant their own berries. New trainers gets a kit to start them off! 6.7. Treehouse Arena. Even forest-people want to battle it out sometimes. Lots of berries as prices~ 6.8. Ancient Woods. An older part of the forest. Dangerous, but said to hold a link to the past. There are large old rocks here. What more could they hold? 7. Stillwood Village Trades: Grass-type 7.1. ‘I got this little Bounsweet, but I keep being attacked by birds! Please, trade me a Geodude for it? Rocks should be strong against birds!’ 7.2. ‘I actually only got this Gossifleur to lure trainers into trading me what I really want… I want a Spoink. Please, get me a Spoink.’ 7.3. ‘This is a Capsakid. I got it because I heard it was gonna have two heads. It doesn’t. I’d trade it for a Doduo? I like two heads.’
Connected areas: Route 4. Forest route at the base of Mt. Strength leading west to Rainrock City. Route 5. A grassy incline connecting mountains, forests, plains, Stillwood and Lakewatch. Route 14. The waters of Dragon Lake are also known as Route 14. It connects Lakewatch Town, Highhill Town and Stillwood Village. Mountain Valley. A passage between Mt. Strength and Mt. Chill, a shortcut to Worldedge City.
Xaltwind
Framing A Moose
Ariamis
Not a Sayan
SkyeOfStars
Remram
Apollosarcher
King Kindred
