His eyebrows scrunched in thought, Roger taps a Pokeball.The bright flash solidified into the broad form of a Rhydon. Grunting a greeting at it's trainer, the large rock type looks over the children with a bored disposition. "Take Enceinte and gather up something to burn. No trees this time."
As the two disappear into the treeline, or rather Enciente disappears as the faint stomps of the Rhydon echo out, Roger plops down into a lazy sprawl. "You kids may as well release your team. Bonding is especially important in the early stages." Rolling over to prepare his bedding, he continues. "It's good of you to not try to coast on Malakai's rep, but just being under him is going to mark you out to people who've interacted with him."
"Most people assume that because it's rare for ACE trainer's to have apprentices." He fixes Hannah a firm stare.
Get any last minute questions prepped, as well as anything you want to handle before bed.
A bemused smirk crossed the older trainer's lip as the girl pushed forward like a Slaking that just caught a favored scent, the expression growing larger at his younger companions responses. His mirth drained upon hearing the girl mention the seafarer's supervisor. "Apologies for interrupting, but you never told me that Malakai was directing you."
Roger's appraising stare seems to indicate him reevaluating your potential. "You seem rather young and under equipped to be a ACE trainer or gym trainer Hannah, I don't recognize you from any of the recent conferences." As he inquires directly to the newcomer with the barest hint of politeness, he mentally pauses before asking broadly, "I don't suppose any of you have a fire type stashed away by chance?"
The older trainer laughs. "It's not as bad as a Slaking or Snorlax. Most industrial centers have leftover scrap, and Rustboro's been subsidizing some experimental ore and alloy productions that have been lowering costs, at least for us natives." The following grin has the energy of a cheesy movie actor line. "Besides, Palisade is hardly picky, if it even slightly gleams she's liable to swallow it wholesale."
As the sun began it's slow descent past the treeline, Roger pointed out a small pullout, though it wasn't until the camp gear was nearly setup that the other inhabitant made herself known.
As they trek further away from civilization, Roger nods at the younger Roger's words. "Hard to find that justification no matter where you look, just keep it in mind. Most people believe that seeing the world and finding yourself are related, though I personally think it's just about having a solid goal." His gaze slips backwards with a hint of longing, his Volbeat waddling behind him.
A good natured chuckle slips his lips at Desmond's declaration of aiming for championship. "Hell of a spot to aim for kid. Even Drake's dragons got tore from their throne, and strongest Dragon Master isn't exactly the kiddie pool." The path of Route 101 is well trod dirt, bare patches of earth guiding the group through the twist and turns.
Treecko's attempts to tough itself up are stymied by the brisk pace the group maintains, only a few light bruises from a short tussle with some of the local Pokemon to show.
Electricty is a fickle thing to control, and for all of the Helioptile's line skill in generating electricity, holding that energy outside of the normal electrocytes is no easy feat.
5% for Treeko, 10% for Blitz, do you guys want to pick Roger's brain on the road or do so around camp?
Lightly tapping one of the orbs on his belt to release a Volbeat in a brilliant flash of red light, Roger lightly laughs. "Surprised to hear such wisdom from a dragon trainer, I though the League mandated an Ego big enough to hide a Tyranitar before they let you touch a pokeball. Claire certainly had one, even if it was deserved." The second half of his words are mumbled and faint. The bug's crimson collar deflates at the mention of Johto's premier gym leader.
As their feet begin to fall in the familiar rhythm of travel, Roger asks, "So what's the end goal kids? Aiming high or just out to see the world?"
Do either of you two want to train or look for any pokemon, or do you just want to progress forward?"
Preston gave a small wave, as Spike tested his skull against small bit of rubble that apparently had insulted the little dino's blood line. While Preston wasn't well acquainted with the older Roger, he recognized him from the Center and was fine with the idea of traveling alongside him.
The more experience trainer gave a long look at Preston's starter headbutting away, before turning to give the dragon trainer a look over. "Already replaced some of the old batch huh? The league sure found new recruits fast?"
Not giving much time for his sentence to hang, Roger adjusts his pack as he quit's his dramatic lean against the entrance. "Well no point in burning daylight. Let's walk and talk."
The older trainer gives a pokeball on his belt a light rap in response to the younger trainer's question. [/b]"Family's alright, though I figured I might as well travel alongside you all, try to help out the next generation and all that. If that's not a problem."[/b] The slight askew grin conveys that the older trainer is aiming to solve two pidgey with one rock throw.
"Palisade is doing better, but she's still a bit too aggressive for my taste. Thankfully she's only a Lairon, and I'm not dealing with a Aggron that thinks every Pokemon is a Tyranitar." The man's right eyebrow lifts, as he notices the totality of trainers. "Not that it's my business, but wasn't there way more of you at the center? Mostly people don't drop off this early into their journey." He slips another lackadaisical salute as he greets Desmond. "Don't think I recognize you either. Name's Roger Agee,nice to meet ya kid."
The girl have a solemn air about them as they wave the boys off, and that carries out into their journey. The morning sun is barely cresting the horizon, and its warmth seems to be lacking some quality they cannot place as it bathes Oldale in it's glow. Making their way to the southern gate, a familiar figure leans against the south gate, full belt hanging lazily off a belt even as Preston gestures for the group to continue ahead as a courier waves him down. Roger gives his younger counterpart a lazy two fingered salute as the group approaches. "Finally had enough of this sleepy town?"
As each Seafarer bid each other farewell and drifted off to their rooms, the last light faded on their first full day as members of the Seafarer program.
In the morning, the bellowing cry of a Loudred served as a alarm. As each aspiring trainer made their way into the Center's gathering area, they noticed two of their number, Claudia and Esther, holding a discussion in quiet murmurs as they and their team nibbled on some breakfast. On the table is the data disk given to them by Malakai. Noticing their companions entering, Claudia raised an arm bidding them to the table, her normal enthusiasm gone. "My fellow Seafarers, I'm afraid we will not be accompanying you any further along this grand path. My humble home of Volumo has need of the strength of its daughter, and Esther..." The small form of Edel clambered atop the table from Esther's lap, vitriol already broadcasting even as she had to be assisted up by her trainer. We've, and by that I mostly mean me, have better things to do than be dragged into trouble and danger by a bunch of imbeciles that wouldn't know a Pokeball from an Electrode if it was zapping them. So enjoy your menial labor while I hunt down the pompous Gardevoir prick."Esther shrunk into herself but did not dispute her partner's word thoughts.
Well, we're finally back into the swing of things. We'll use this a returning point.
As the conversation carries on, the light coming through the window begins to dull, the bright yellow of the afternoon shifting to the softer orange and reds of evening.
Once everyone settle out their bills and exits the Davies, neither man nor bug giving the group a second glance. The outside street is quiet, the few creatures out doing the evening chores as the young trainers notice the dwindling sunlight. It could be possible to wring a bit more training, but is that worth ignoring sleep or doing some research is call each must make on their own.
The server writes all of the orders before ripping the page out. "That'll be out in just a moment." He speed walks towards the back, where he calls out the orders as he pins the orders to the metal wheel, grumbling noises coming from Doug as the swadloon begins preparing the order. The drinks come out quick, the nabab shakes alternating between a brilliant yellow layer and an almost eye searing pink separate layer. The chocolate shakes are look disturbingly like dirt, even if they taste perfect.
The food follows shortly behind, mostly pal platters with a surprisingly varied stack of berries and lab grown meat alongside the small s'more Astraea ordered. The Pokemon quickly dig in, devouring the plates while those without platters give their trainers the largest baby eyes possible to try guilt them into getting their own food. As the server drops off his food he drops off each associated ticket. The more worldly among your group know that once you finish eating and chatting, you just feed your ticket into the machine near the door and swipe your trainer ID to pay.
60 Poke a shake, coffee/s'more is also 60, pal platters are 150 a pop
The man gives the group another once over, taking count of the balls on the trainers present before grabbing a handful of menus. "Take that up with Doug, he's a big bug. Please follow me to the trainer booth." The Swadloon's frown deepens as he buzzes what seems to be an insult at the server before disappearing back into kitchen. The server gives a rude gesture over his shoulder as he guides the group to a large corner booth, with an open Pokemon area behind seat. Handing the menu to the group, he pulls a small notebook from a breast pocket. "Any drinks to get y'all started? I recommend the Nanab Sitrus Shake, it's to die for. The man's dead voice betrays his lack of sleep and f%*~s to give.
Dex Did It at Davies:
The dex beeps, providing the information as a text scroll due to Claudia's fumbling causing a swap to silent mode. Swadloon, the Leaf-Wrapped Pokemon. Forests where Swadloon live have superb foliage because the nutrients they make from fallen leaves nourish the plant life.It protects itself from the cold by wrapping up in leaves. It stays on the move, eating leaves in forests. This pokemon knows Sleep Talk, Agility, Razor Leaf, Tackle, Calm Mind, Frustration and String Shot. It is level 5.
Taking the ball, the nurse flashes a smile before running a light cycle of healing. Tossing the ball back to Roger, she gestures for him to come over. "The best way to hit Davies is head out and go directly west along Ziggy Street. They're 24 hours and the pal platter is a real favorite." She pulls out a small brochure. "It's a map with most of the local attractions, not that much happens here."
Outside Oldale:
As the doors open up to reveal out the outside of Oldale, the tiny town still just as dead as before. As they head west one of the small structures they originally mistook for a house reveals a tiny sign marking it as Davies, showing a small neon sign of a bunch of generic quadrupeds going to town on a platter. As your group pushes open the door with a small bell announcing your presence, a young man with dark circles under his eyes gives you an appraising glance. "Y'all just here to sight see or you need a table?" He glances down to the group's Pokemon as the grumpy face of a swadloon peering up from the kitchen appearing just as done as the server. "I assume you'll want one of the trainer booths?"
As the group reenters the center, the lead nurse overhears the mention of dinner. As she speaks Desmond seems to register to her, and she readies a keycard. "If you're looking for a decent meal Davies isn't far and tends to be a trainer's favorite. Probably helps they're not too spendy and always open." She tosses the keycard on the counter before calling out to Desmond. "Hey'ya hun, if you need a room with all your friends we've got plenty to spare, though the night shift would appreciate if you snagged it now rather than after your romp though Oldale."
It seems the older Roger has vacated the center, as the building is empty outside the staff. A Vigoroth is frantically cleaning the corner, sweeping with enough force small gusts are dusting the shelves.
As the Seafarers engage in spirited combat, there is a faint popping noise from side of the center allowing for street access to the battleground in the small alley. The sudden arrival of a rather short red head clad in very traditional indigoan wear alongside the awfully familiar three faced Psychic Palm Tree quickly drew attention.
The Pokemon gave a full body shake as if stretching a cramp muscle with an exuberant side face earned a frown from the other offset head. Man we're already missing being off duty. We're definitely getting more work cause there's three of us, we should take this up with the union to get commensurate pay. The middle head gave an exasperated sigh as a psychic force pushed the boy towards the other new trainers. There is no union, just Esteban and Melody's illegal fight club remember. There was a brief pause before a strange mental chorus. First rule of fight club, don't talk about fight club. The coconut Pokemon's happy head gave a wink to Astraeae before the creature warped itself away.
Welcome to Emerald Lugia, now make a con save sucker. Lower than a 5 is barf boulevard, 5-9 is the nausea neighborhood.
The little bug gives Roger a appraising gaze before shifting over to Astraea before giving a small shrug and returning to laying on the ground, obviously believing the two of them could not offer a worthwhile fight.
The images send cleaning, with the Gothita's ribbon like growths twitching as she processes the idea atop Esther's shoulder. She gives Edel a small glare. I should have guessed you considered any interact lacking spite or malice to be soft weakness. Shame you seem so comfortable atop her shoulder despite yourself, Edelweiss.
Slowly a small smile forms, growing bigger at the attached familial play. It's wonderful, I'd be honored to go by Allium. Allium, All-ium, Al-li-um... Her 'voice' trails off, testing out the new name with a grin.
5 percent for the ralts TP, 10 for the double kick, 5 percent for Edel's mastery, and some solid bonding.
To Gothi-tell the Truth:
The newest member of Esther's team tilts her head as she considers the girl's question. I'm not...against it. What names are you contemplating?? The tiny pause bears the little dark type's anxious hope, and she adds the followup with far too much enthusiasm. It seems at least a majority of her earlier concerns were alleviated by the training and bonding exercises Esther did.
The nurse makes a show of deep thought, pursing her lips as she looks down at a screen, before giving a grin. "Hon, it's Oldale near the start of a conference season. We've got a rooms a'plenty. Here." She fumbles around with something below the desk before pulling up a small basket filled with laminated cards like the trainer ID's used by most of the population. Grabbing a handful, she drops half in Roger's hand before giving the rest to Claudia. "The numbers should be on the cards, they work as the key and need to be turned in first thing before y'all leave."
As the Volumoan heads for the training field, the nurse loudly yells, "Don't rough him or the field up too much sweetie!" Her eyes convey a mischievous mirth as she turns back to the equipment.
The bubbly nurse gives an ambivalent shrug. "They didn't ask for any before heading out, but we're basically empty right now so there's plenty of rooms available."
Psychic Shenanigans:
The Ralts gives her more caustic alternative a frown. I'd think you were a pile of misery, but even a pile of misery stuck in a Muk would be less noxious than being near you.
Shrugging his shoulders, Roger flicked his fingers toward Preston and his book. "People who do what ol' Stevie Wonder did are all around, though most aren't quite to that extent. My rival had a Delibird that learned to consistently fly via causing explosions, Brawly's Hariyama is something absolutely special I'm not gonna spoil, and Norman's Slaking are probably some of the meanest in the National League."
At Leo's injuries Roger's lip curl up into a small grin, as a very distinct noise that is definitively not a suppressed laugh. "A Wurmple colony you say. Truly a ferocious foe." Whatever respect experienced Roger had is gone, though he still takes the time to answer the last question between disguised laughs. "Depends on the temperament. If they're might make right type, either showing them something way outside their league and proving the team is strong together, or if they're the self improvement slash honor type just act according to their ideals."
Meanwhile the Nurse lines the counter with multiple trays holding only two Pokeballs. "Well they're right as rain dontcha know, though I don't think a little zigzagoon chow would hurt." The small tray with the printout of Roger's trainer info has two balls atop it.
Ralt's attempts to move without physical movement have yielded no breakthroughs, although her furrowed brow at spatial displacement are very funny. Titania seems to struggle at first, but quickly becomes experienced at a quick turn and kick, even if she's lacking the energy that marks the technique from general flailing of limbs.
Edel seems to luxuriate in showing off her ability to teleport, even if her rapid attempts leave her drained and tired. Gothita shows a surprisingly adept talent for battling and combat, even managing to use her line's ability to predict the future to land a weak dark pulse on a barely materialized Edel, who promptly collapses into a cursing bundle of spite and exhaustion. The Gothita's satisfied smirk makes it all too obvious it was intentional.
The Center:
Roger blinks before giving the boy a much more intense visual workover. "Only the second day and you're already trying to give others advice? You may want to slow down a bit there. Are all you newbies?" The man gestures to all the others that arrived with Roger.
At the followup question Roger gives a lazy grin. "I've been training for about two years now, though I haven't managed any conference runs of note. As for advice, trust in your team, and if you don't know what's happening don't get involved. There's already enough unknowns in the battler lifestyle. Other than that, pick the brains of more experienced, and if you're lucky Masters. Seems almost everyone has some weird one off tiny aspect of a Pokemon species they know."
Insight:
Your experience with bred Pokemon has taught you that for all that some lines are considered beginner or easy to train, there is no accounting for oddball temperaments even putting aside the changes of evolution. Honestly, it seems pretty reasonable the more you consider the effort of raising Pokemon for combat.
At Roger's inquiry the man looks up from his book in mild surprise. His eyes dart to the younger boy, before giving a small sigh and placing his book back on the shelf. "While I appreciate the offer kid, I don't think this is quite in your wheelhouse. Palisade is just dealing with the evolution hormones." Despite his words, his tone is mellow as his hand brushes across a full belt of six Pokeball marked with small scratches and nicks marking him as as experienced trainer, before it comes up to offer a handshake. "I'm Roger, I'm taking a short break to see some family in Littleroot. You new?" The question is half posed as a statement, half as an inquiry.
Preston's hunt for literature proves quite fruitful as his eyes find a unworn spine with a very familiar name attached. As he pulls it out a beautifully illustrated group of gems glitters on the cover. A Hardy Passion to Endure Enternal; the premier stone and rock guide written by Steven Stone.
As the group starts to separate, a ringing bell summons the causual Nurse Joy as if by magic. "Y'alls family are right as rain, and transferred to their new homes. You folk need rooms for the night or just dropping by to visit?"
Roger's Peek at an older man:
For all his grumbling, Roger seems to be a decently prepared trainer. While it is a bit odd for a experienced trainer to have trouble with an evolution, it's not unheard of especially with more temperamental species.
Preston's Big Ears are mostly for show:
Preston hears the above conversation, though is a bit distracted by the bounty of books. Oh dear Sky Above it has Steven's autograph.
As the nurse takes the Pokeball and begins the process, she blinks a bit before double checking the ID. "Oh yeah, I think this is yours." Crouching under the desk, she heaves a large incubator onto the counter. "Here you go sweet heart, take care!"
Roger's hunt for books reveals a beginners guide to training and a book with a rather chunky trainer and a pot. How to keep yourself from walking off the pounds.
The Nurse Joy blinks before gesturing for the Pokeball. "Sure thing hon, just give me the ball and your trainer ID's and I'll get the little 'un transferred in a jiffy."
Sitting atop Astraea's shoulder with her feet swinging, the Ralts gazes all around the center with wonder. Not much to my end of things. Mom and Dad are guardians of one of the old ruins, and it was always so stuffy and boring! So I left, and ended up stumbling onto Gothita as she was teleported here... The shoulder psychic trails off before looking at the other new capture who shudders at the mention of her arrival. Honestly you should probably ask her about that, but we've been traveling together for a while now. I lead us to fun things, and she's always serious and makes sure we ended up okay!
The Truth of Polo:
The man's clothing, while nice, does seem to have some of wear and tear expected from a trainer out on the road. The book in his hand seems to be related to dealing with evolutionary hormones and ensuring your relationship with your companion. If you didn't know any better, you'd almost guess he was frustrated as he skims the book rapidly.
While his polo shirt and khaki's are a weird fashion choice, the empty Pokebelt on his hip does mark him as a trainer. He doesn't seem to have noticed you currently, a book detailing emotional effects of evolution in his hand.
Nurse Joy Sees Nunya:
As Roger makes his pass, the nurse has her back to the ground, placing the Pokeballs onto the machine to put the Pokemon into the healing que.
Treecko seemingly senses his trainers desire for a win, and flings himself high into the air before spinning to slam his tail directed into the Surskit's skull. The little bug type immediately crumples, though they don't stay down for too long. Slowly working to their feet, the Surskit gives Princess a dirty stare before meandering back into the untamed section of the path. Somehow you managed to find a Surskit more unfriendly than your traveling companion.
As you proceed further into Oldale you're struck by just how small this place truly is. No more than two dozen or so houses, a single small Pokemon center, and a strange cabin like structure that seems to be the mart makes up the entirety of the town.
Hospital Hotel:
However, it does seem to be peaceful and laidback, an energy that continues into the Pokemon Center as you heal your teams and get your rooms for the night, the Nurse Joy acting as if she's relaxing at beach rather than working the desk. Given the fact the center is nearly empty aside from a single rather well dressed man perusing the center's library, it may be a easy job.
As the bug reasseses Treecko, unhappy chittering noises directed at Princess who gives a single warning hiss back, shifting up enough the other Surskit backs down and returns to the combat against the grass type. Shooting forward with a quick attack that strikes Treecko perfectly, the Surskit leaps into his face with a bead of liquid releasing a potent scent that seems to daze Treecko. Seeing an opportunity, the Surskit uses a quick attack to sneak behind the poor starter before unloading a full burst of bubbles into his spine, though thankfully her haste means the bubbles past the first lack real strength. While Treecko seems to be on his last foot, Surskit looks like she’s only one perfectly placed pound from crumpling even as she preens to Princess, the more experience Surskit remaining nonplussed.
This Ralts is level 2 with an energetic nature. It knows the moves Grudge, Disable, Growl, Confusion, and Disarming Voice.
This Gothita knows the moves Pound, Confusion, Tickle, Miracle Eye and Dark Pulse and has the ability shadow tag. It has a careful nature.
Treecko Throwdown:
As this bug flashed forward, shooting forward with a quick attack, Treecko has a brief moment where Princess's similiar opening flashes before his eyes, freezing him just long enough for the enhanced burst of speed boosted Surskit to smack into him and quickly blow a series of bubbles, one of which popped on his nose. However, this Surskit obviously lacked Princess's talent for violence as proven by Treecko slamming his thick tail into the Surskit, sending it sliding away.
The Gothita blinks at the offer of nutrition, seemingly confused that anyone would offer to share before giving a hesitant nod. Off in the distance, the newly released Ralts winces, seeming to shrivel up under the green fringe. Oh, I didn't even think about how Goth'd react. This is gonna be bad. Regardless, the adventurous psychic allows herself to be placed atop Astraea"s shoulder.
As the pair near the Psychic Dark nibbling at fruit, Astraea's comfort seems to further unnerve the Gothita at first. Pondering the Kalosian's words, the little Pokemon seems to unwind her self just a tad, almost imperceptibly. You're surprisingly kind. I always figured humans were more like PROGENITOR. Her descriptor of a gene donor is laden with emotional traces of fear and panic, alongside a large scoop of unease and seems to rattle about in your brain.
As she straights up, she forms a small ball of inky black that she tosses directly into Ralts' face. The other Psychic sputters as she attempts to remove the shadowy blob. And by the Creator do you even stop to think! This time you can't escape this lecture. You... Realizing she's broadcasting her tirade, she squints her eyes in focus before seeming to continue a tirade silently, Ralts occasionally rising to her defense before swiftly be rebutted by the darker psychic.
Seeing the outstretched answer to her monotone life, the Ralts dives forward, accidentally headbutting the button. In a quick flash of red, the psychic disappears into the ball without a single shake.
Psychic Sadness:
As her friend lunges for the pokeball like a drowning man after a a jug of water, the little Gothita quivers, tears welling up in her eyes. Her voice comes through wavering and patchy, a sure sign she's barely holding herself together. S-see what I mmmean? I-idiot doesssn't think. She sniffles as the tears start to wiggle down her face. Just catch me.
Roger's Rambunctious Rumble:
As Roger approaches the wild Surskit, his own traveling Surskit seems unimpressed and almost peeved, her erratic skittering punctuated with small hiss and pointed limb at the downright slothful wild Pokemon lounging on a bush. At first the lazy bug spares him a glance before returning to laying on the bush, only for a multi-tone trill from Princess to jerk it up. She seems almost smug about it, preening as she moves to observe the battle from the small puddle nearby. Giving a low groan, the Surskit gives Treecko no more than a moments glance, seeming to disregard the starter as a threat before leaping off its bush.
The Ralts peers up past the green fringe atop her head to stare directly into Astraea's eyes, mirth in the face. "Ooooh you're a feisty one. If you want I'll happily take on whatever you got. The energetic Psychic spreads her legs into a combat stance before adding in a meek followup, Please no Dark types though, only G's able to deal with them. The shiver she gives seems to subside quickly, though at glance at Surskit has her shifting to put Astraea between them.
Seeing Esther's goodspirited intention to reduce her stress, the Gothita pops out of the bush. I'm not as much worried about your friend's intentions. She's never been good at sitting still and I worry she'll push herself too far, and she's hard to stop without a little edge. The Gothita lets a little wisp of dark energy collect atop her head protrusion before dissipating it. Giving an audible sigh, she turns to look back at Esther. You seem awfully reasonable. Maybe I could tag along with you to keep an eye on her?
Quiet Quandry:
Esther hears a small sniffle as the little Pokemon stares wistfully at her friend squaring off with Astraea. She's my only friend and I don't want to be alone. Please, I promise I can be useful.
The Ralt's throws her arms wide. Please, get me out of this place. If I have to keep the same Zigzagoon from eating my favorite Nabab bush I'm going to lose my mind. As she approaches she gives Esther the psychic equivalent of shrug. I'm fine, G's just a giant worrywart.
In the distance a small lavender face pushes through the bushes, small bow like growths attached to the face. And you have all the concern of a particularly stupid Aron taste testing a moving cart! The new face gives a cautious glance at the group before pulling her head back into the bush. The Ralts gives a snort before approaching Astraea. You're not a beacon of sunshine but you're definitely the type to take me to all sorts of interesting places.
Tight Beam Broadcast:
"Everything is fine, I just don't see why Ralts is so fed up with living here. We're close enough most wild Pokemon leave us be and the humans don't get particularly interested. But I know Ralts is gonna get into trouble and I won't be there to bail her out." Towards the end of the telepathy it sounds halfway between a tirade and tired sobs.
Astraea's Assessment:
As the head pops out you're relatively sure it's one of the Unovan Psychic types, but you can't exactly remember the name of the first evolution.
Roger's Recon:
Aside from the particularly bold Ralts and her bushbound companion, the route is relatively quiet. A small Surskit is near the treeline, but just looking at it tells you that Princess is a much stronger Pokemon.
What all is everyone's partner pokemon, the one that's outside the Pokeball?
As the group starts towards Oldale, the route begins to lose some of the thicker vegetation, a sure sign that they were nearing the small town, or would village be accurate given the near complete lack of any real human infrastructure outside the ubiquitous PokeCenter and PokeMart. While the local Pokemon remain present, and more daring given the absence of Leo and his aggression, they peter out once the outskirts of Oldale are in sight.
However, it seems fate is not content to let the Seafarers enter the city without something going awry. Please tell me they’re trainers, I’m getting tired of seeing old people wander in and out. A small Ralts, her mental voice high and squeaky, strides confidently from the bush that rustles even as she leaves it, a flash of lavender and white peeking out from the edge of the foliage. Strangely, you catch the mental equivalent of someone blowing a raspberry even though it doesn't seem directed to you.
Psychic Shenanigans:
Unlike the rest of her companions, Esther hears the even and worried tone of whatever lied behind the bush. Come on Ralts, you know this is risky. What if you get kidnapped or they capture you to sell you off?” The resultant raspberry is definitely directed at this unknown, also feminine voice.
Elvira’s smile grows particularly sharklike as the children all speak and introduce themselves.”Oh he managed to snag an actual Volumoan, I never get to do rescue ops near your people. Something about cultural insensitivity to the skirt wearing boys.” Giving a short two tone whistle, Elvira’s Pokemon noticeably stops to let Roger grab the PokeNav, taking the opportunity to rummage through his belt to return his Pokemon. The duo quickly returned to their work while the absolute unit of a Pelipper snacked on some Pokefood the ranger deposited for it on the ground.
At inquiries about the boy who now was closer in appearance to a Silcoon than a human, the woman shrugged. ”Depends on how well his and Crusher’s chat goes. If he’s already this aggressive and bloodthirsty they’ll likely just end up rehabilitated and cycled back through to someone more responsible. A day doesn’t exactly form lifetime bonds, unless it was one hell of a day.” The way the woman’s eyebrow wiggles suggestively doesn’t leave enough to the imagination. Continuing, she outright guffaws at Preston’s concern. ”Kid, you’re trainers. As soon as you took that ID you’re adults as far as the League’s concerned. Besides, between that absolute hunk of a man and the kid’s pops I know where I’d bet my money. Kai hasn’t let more important things stop him, and neither a nippy Poochy or an irate father rank too high a threat to the right hand of Evergrande's Lord.”
Hearing the 48 hours comment and the not so subtle press for information, the woman turns to whistle another order, the harness for the stretcher being lifted around a squawking Pelipper who flaps their wings impotently as the psychic tightens the straps into place. Moving to settle atop the bird that has more than half an arm’s length on the woman, she flashes the kids a grin. ”Oh far be it from me to spoil Big Man’s surprise. Fortune favors the bold little ‘Tads, and asking this beautiful young woman on her day off to evac your idiot hasn’t earned any points. Ask him yourself.” Some light pats prompts the Pelipper to lift off the ground slowly, until the lines between the stretcher and flying type go taunt. Recalling her other Pokemon, the ranger blows a kiss. ”Try not to die before you hit Oldale, I’d never hear the end of it. I'd say call for Elvira, but I'm not gonna answer.” Leo’s restrained body lifts off the ground, and begins the trip back to Petalburg.
Roger’s approach to the Silcoon earns an opened maw from the pale creature, only for Surskit to reveal her own needle filled mouth at one of the Wurmple who seemed to be particularly defensive of their leader. Giving them a second look, it’s the Wurmple that struck Lionel, its previous bravado barely hanging on. With Surskit’s breathy trill holding back the little trainer toppler, there’s nothing that stops Roger from healing the leader, the pale creature seemingly unbothered by any wounds or healing occurring through appreciative nonetheless.
The colony seems to have gathered Leo was the odd man out of your group, and has mostly returned to the glorious life of eating leaves, only the middle evolution posted atop the bush like a crown atop a king’s head paying you any attention. The other wild pokemon have returned to their regular lifestyle and the sound of the wild has mostly returned to the path.
Only a couple of minutes go by before the sounds of wings beating the air draw your attention. A Pelipper squaks as it lands, allowing the woman wearing a leather long coat with a ranger’s badge pinned to the loose garment on it’s back to hop off, stretching her legs as she did so. Her tattered cowboy hat banded with a indigo flower dips as she glances over you all, eyes holding on to Leo as she smirks. ”So you’re that new band of children they pulled ol’ Crusher ‘Kai to babysit? I expected better of him than to let his little Lotad wander off and get bullied by a particularly feisty Wurmple colony.” As she talks her hands release a Chimecho and Cacturne, the pair working on preparing a canvas stretcher Chimecho levitates Leo onto. As the Cacturne coats the stretcher with fluffy spores of cotton, she releases a third Pokemon Astraea recognizes as a Monsoon pattern Vivillion that quickly begins securing the wounded boy onto the stretcher with string shot, the practiced pattern looking more like the work of an Ariados securing prey.
The Wurmple colony tenses up at Roger's approach, only for Surskit to skitter in front of boy and give a small trill that, while not stopping the defensive measures, at least gives Roger an unimpeded approach to the wounded Wurmple. As his home made potion starts to kick in with the green goopy blood starting to clot, Surskit gives him a glance of surprised respect as if the little bug is fully aware of Roger for the first time. The colony circles their healing friend, the little bug giving a thankful nod before painstakingly wiggling onto the bush under the Silcoon's watchful eye.
As Astraea palms an antidote to Esther, the young Psychic girl thankfully remembers the correct dosage, the image of an overdosed trainer from her first aid course popping unprompted into her mind as she feels the needle break into Leo's vein. While the unmodified antidote prompts a bout of shivering and groans from Leo, the unnatural palor slowly starts to fade as his breathing stabilizes. While hardly in good condition, Leo will make it to proper medical care.
As Leo hit the dirt with a thump, Akhlut and Kawako move to stand between their trainer and the Wurmple, Akhlut in particular looking incredibly tense as he plants near his trainers legs. The Wurmple who toppled the trainer gives a dismissive wiggle, before crawling back to the bush. Without instruction, Kaupe hesitates for a moment, which is enough for the large Wurmple to stringshot the Poochyena's maw closed before climbing to the top of the bush as a bright light starts to shine from it's body, intensifying before leaving a pale spiked form in it's place, the newly evolved Silcoon looking down from its bush in anticipation of further atacks.
The other Pokemon grow silent as the light of evolution bathes the route, before giving the newly evolved Silcoon looks you can't quite decipher. No further attacks come as Kaupe moves over to Leo, pitifully whining as he nudges his trainer's unconscious form, quickly taking on an unnatural palor. The Wurmple colony makes no moves indicating aggression, but are on edge and watching the rest of the trainers with cautious eyes even as they attempt crudely to aid their wounded allies savaged by Kaupe.
As Kaupe moves in, the Wurmple that dove to slam their body into him once again lunged, only for the quickness of the Poochyena to leave it swiping at air. As the dark type clamped down on the Leader, its ally Wurmple hopped off the bush, wiggle closer to Leo before slamming a brightly glowing purple tail spike into his shin, spite in it's little compound eyes. Even as the the other Wurmple begin to dive to get the Poochyena off their leader only one manages to make contact though Kaupe seems nearly unfazed by the blow. The leader nearly makes contact themselves, but the sheer force from the bite has the bug mildly disoriented.
As the spike digs through Leo's flesh he starts to feel the burning sensation in his lower leg indicating the toxins are in his system. Thankfully it's only for a couple of moments before he collapses, his vision going dark. As the trainer crumples his Lotad and Mudkip move to protect their trainer.
AoO Worm:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 1 = 10 A leader for a leader:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 1 = 20 Leo Damage:1d4 ⇒ 4 Dogpile on the dog:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4 Wurmple meat in the dogpile sandwich:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 1 = 11 Kaupe Damage:1d6 ⇒ 1 Leader Wurmple:2d20 + 1 ⇒ (7, 10) + 1 = 18
That's 8 points of damage and a poisoning on Leo, and 1 on the Poochyena.
As the Wurmple Leo's been attacking crumples to ground in an awful state, his threat shakes the little worms, two of the number immediately taking off via string shot before the largest of the group, a Wurmple with particularly pronounced spikes and a paler coloration reared up to aggressively trill, the sound rallying the other bug types into action. As a lone Wurmple hurl themself at Kaupe with surprising force with their ally firing a poisonous spike at the canine, the last of the following worm Pokemon looks at their companion bleeding and broken on the forest floor, and then stares directly at Leo before lifting it's tail like a scorpion to fire a poison sting directly at the boy, an action that inspires the leader Wurmple to do the same.
The sheer anger is surprising to the trainers, but it does make sense. Pokemon and Humanity maintain a careful balance enforced by the threat of League might, but even the weakest of Pokemon are strong beyond the keen of man, and willing to strike back should the need arise.
Rally of the Worms:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 1 = 17 Hurl me harder Daddy:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5 Damage-Kaupe DM made a goof, this doesn't apply:1d6 ⇒ 4 From Wurmple with Spite:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19 Damage-Kaupe:1d4 ⇒ 1 Even a worm will turn:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 1 = 17 Damage Leo:1d4 ⇒ 2 Worm 2 Electric Boogaloo:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 1 = 11 Damage Leo:1d4 ⇒ 1 Poison Save:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19
That's 5 damage on Kaupe who is also now poisoned, and three damage on Leo.
Preston Perceptive Picnic:
While you're hardly Taillow eyed, the sheer movement and sounds of fighting are making it hard for you to focus on investigating the route, your trainer instincts demanding you observe the fight.
The Wurmple was happily munching leaves, it's tiny mouth filled to a humorous degree with plants as the maw clamps down, the serrated teeth creating a bloody line down it's back. Indignant at it's meal being disrupted by violence, the bug type rears up only to catch a watergun to the face. Disoriented by the high powered water burst to the face, the creature keens before spitting a toxic spike from it's head into the Poochyena. The nearby half dozen or so Wurmple begin to turn to the attackers, the keening spreading from bug to bug like a battlecry.
Poison Sting go!:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13
Does it sting?:1d4 - 1 ⇒ (4) - 1 = 3
Kalosian Flower KNOWLEDGE:
While Astraea is aware of the rarity of revival herbs, her lack of familiarity with Hoenn's flora doesn't give her any further insight.
Esther's a mediocre private eye:
As Esther looks aware from the assault on the Wurmple, stomach turning at the sight of the green goop like blood, she notices the other denizens of the route watching Leo's attack, Poochyena and Zigzagoon grouping up and keeping their faces to the trainer wearing a Lotad.
Roger needs to see a optometrist :
The bush is green and bushy, and is definitely a Oran Berry bush. It seems to be decently old.
As Claudia and Roger scout for helpful herbs, they quickly notice a small patch of oran berries just peeking over the edge of the thick grass. While the bush laden with five fat berries was a huge boon, Claudia's sharp eyes notice a pale pink flower nestled at the base of a tree almost as if it is huddling away from sight. A Revival herb is an uncommon sight in most greenhouses, much less in the wild just off a common route.
As Leo pushes forward, the Lotad perched atop his head gurgles before tugging his hair to indicate a small group of Wurmple feasting upon the leaves of the trees. Normally such a contingent would be easy picking for the Taillow of the route, but it would appear this section is surprisingly lacking in any aerial predators. While hardly a route known for their density of flying types, the Fletchling's presence proves there is usually a few flying stragglers looking for easy meals and no competition.
Given the increased size of the group the camp is packed up with startling speed, before the group starts towards Oldale. The road is quieter than the route right outside Petalburg, with only a few Zigzagoon disturbing the odd quiet. There are a few trainers, but all appear to be young boys and girls focusing on catching bugs and thus pay your group no mind.
As the girls begin to return to the camp site, it's become a hive of activity with the boys all training, Spike and Chalupa throwing their all into their training. The other Pokemon, while not as energetic, are still putting in a decent effort.
A choice lies before them, stay and train, or continue on their journey to Oldale?
Training progress will be determined once the duration is set.
Roger’s attempt to scavenge supplies quickly starts to run aground. The original plants he pulled he would have swore on his egg were meant to promote good digestion and relaxation, but he had somehow snagged a near identical leaf known to be used as a poor man’s laxative during the less resource rich years. Only Treecko smacking it out of his hand kept him from using it to brew tea.
With Leo’s aid, they quickly managed to top up their supplies and even managed to locate a small grove of medicinal leaves, the very ones Potions are modeled after. There seems to be enough to prepare six bootleg potions, maybe more if they could find some supplemental herbs or some oran berries to hide the bitter taste of the more effective plants.
Do those normally live in trees?:
Kaupe is quick to follow the scent, though noticeably loses some of his enthusiasm once he reaches the tree. The giant claw marks driven deep into the bark and flesh of the rather thick tree give ample reason for concern, one set of claw marks nearly half the width of the canine Pokemon. Astraea’s careful eyes catch a few extra details, a small sliver of material left in the gashes, the lighter marks near the bottom, and come to a rather disturbing conclusion. Whatever left these marks did so on accident, and was easily a creature capable of going toe to toe with a strong gym Pokemon. While her lack of local knowledge prevented her from making definite claims about the species, it was definitely a quadruped, and not one with any difficulty climbing.
New Training partner:
As their trainer lays out the plan, the two older teammates take a moment to interact with Kawako, Akhlut seemingly nervous about the grass type likely from his recent experience getting drained, though the starter does give a small blep of acknowledgement. Kaupe is much less reserved, nosing the pad atop the lotad’s head before showing a maw full of puppy sharp teeth. If you’re wanting to train, I’m going to need two more animal handling rolls and you to define which roll goes to which Pokemon.
As the two girls begin to prowl forward, crouched to blend in better with the grass, Treecko and Surskit watch the duo with amusement and disregard respectively as they munch on their food. Treecko tosses the food into the air, letting it lazily arc into his mouth while Surskit skitters over the food pile, bending her legs to let her inhale the food. She seems to be more tolerant of you today, less aggressive posturing than normal.
As the girls push deeper into the treeline, the trail becomes harder to follow, before terminating up a tree. At the base of the tree is a collection of wrappers and chocolate crumbs, before a singular gash running parallel to the tree.
Lotad :
As Leo first releases the Lotad, the Pokemon seems defiant, tipping it’s pad to meet his eyes. During his impassioned talk, the Pokemon grows less aggressive, glancing back at the quiet pond and his two companions barely breaking the surface. As he gurgles to them, the two shake their heads before dipping back under the surface.
Giving an exasperated huff, the Lotad looks Leo up and down, before slowly nodding his head in agreement, rolling the ball back towards Leo. It’s easy to see that this Pokemon hungers to be strong, and all Pokemon know trainers are the easiest route to might. Preston’s words seem to solidify it’s choice, and it nods again more energetically.
As the camp erupts into commotion at the realization of the stolen snacks, and everyone start analyzing the few tracks present in the hard pack dirt. Whatever left the track had long feet, given the sheer length in the dusty dirt. Unlike figuring out what it was, the process of figuring out it's path is much easier. Whatever Pokemon did this beelined from bag to bag, small wrappers and protective packaging discarded at the bags before it shot off into the deep grass. The last of the footprints, near the edge of the groomed path, shows claw marks of some kind.
Petalburg Dudes:
As Leo is snagging snacks the doctor from the previous night rounds the corner, giving the boy a undecipherable gaze before focusing on the vending machine. "I should be surprised and telling you to get back to your bed, but I remember being a young hotblooded trainer. Take it easy on the hand, and I'll get the release paperwork done."If you guys solely book it towards the main group, you should be able to catch them before they reach Oldale.
As the last dredges of sunlight start to fade, Spike and Akhlut spend the evening tossing and retrieving rocks respectively. From the research you did of the move in the dex, there should be a specific energy that assist and gives the rocks the enhanced durability required to make an impact. While Spike is doing fine with the physical throwing motion, it’s no different than you tossing a stone at the moment. A few stones wobble unnaturally for a bit, but that’s the extent of the progress.
Akhlut seems to be contemplative as he ferries the stones back and forth, but doesn’t appear to dislike the activity though his repeated gazes towards the hospital do tell you he’s concerned for his trainer.
As the last of the light fades you gather the Pokemon and return to the hospital room provided. You don’t want to cause a ruckus and disturb the patients and trainers after all. 15 percent towards Rock Throw.
That’s surskits the line:
The potion spritz makes the Surskit hiss, but she doesn’t do more as the flesh starts to knit together slowly. A single leg inspects the wound before she allows Roger to return her.
Later in the evening as Roger starts reading the Pokedex, Surskit stands alert, constantly twisting around to inspect her environment in a manner most trainers would associate with overly charged twitchy electric types. While Treecko is content to lounge atop on his trainer’s bga, the starter does keep an eye on the newcomer. As the night continues she slowly seems to let some of the tension leave her, even if her standoffish behavior isn’t fully gone.
Verdigras:
Between everyone’s collective knowledge of setting up camp you end up with a surprisingly comfortable and well laid out camp, water and a small fire prepared with no issues. The pokemon even manage to gather a small collection of dry wood to feed the fire.
Titania preens under the affection from her trainer, washing away the grumpy attitude she had from getting assaulted by the Surskit. Aside from an annoyed huff at the mention of the water bug, the equine seems quite pleased, even giving Astraea some light bumps with her snout.
Claudia’s new Pokemon appears, blinking in confusion even as he begins to hop about. As Claudia sets down the food the Fletchling dives into the food, eating frantically. After demolishing the plate, the bird cocks his head having not paid any attention to her words. Thankfully Theodora gives a warble that prompts a return warble from Fletchling, before dipping his head to Claudia. He seems to be relatively content with the deal, and gives no trouble.
Esther and Edel’s attempts at teleport prove partially fruitful, Edel managing a teleport before going to bed. However, she promptly disgorges her stomach before starting a tirade as she crawls away from the pile of puke, her limbs not responding to her demands. As her starter rants to empty air, Esther sneakily rolls the engraved bones of her family, the bones clattering before stopping on alternating markings. Weal and Woe, though it does seem weighted towards Weal. As well, Edel gains 20 percent towards teleport
The night passes quietly, before the sun begins to rise. The first day as trainers has come to an end, and the second day begins.
Everyone not at the hospital:
As you wake up you notice the camp has been disturbed, specifically the packs. As everyone inspects the packs, any flavorful or particular tasty snacks you had stored have been taken, along with a singular ration from each bag.
