"Valdemar... what kind of raid?" she queries, mostly to stall for time; as far as she's concerned what they are trying to take via force is either going to be too insignificant for them to continue on with their new guests, or too harsh for Elise and her companions to tolerate. From what she's heard, it could be a simple cattle raid that might be insignificant to these people, but she feels honorbound to not avert her eyes...
She tries to recall what she heard from Dalinda of inter-clan diplomacy. Bonds are probably formed with marriages and gifts, requests for help become favors owed or repaid. Is that right?
She's pretty sure they don't have any of those things to offer, except for a favor, which might be viewed suspiciously when offered from outsiders who are not necessarily going to stick around. Maybe appeal to their shared Cobalt Springs identity?
Speaking of that... when was the last time outsiders were actually strong enough to have an effect on politics here? Pushing too hard could get Cobalt Springs to unify..against the party. Does she have any idea how much leeway they have?
"Ha! What luck we have, to find friends to not only provide us with food, but also chance for repayment of their kindness through glorious battle."
"You may not tell this from the look of us, but we're no strangers to war. Before our jaunt beneath the mountain we helped the people of Quartz fight a war for their homeland and our pokemon slayed a Legendary the size of a mountian!" Makai brags, trying to change the subject and downplay connections the party's connections with Dalina and Turnbrook.
"We steal cattle," Valdemar replies, coolly, to Elise's question. "At least 10 head, or 20 if we can manage."
Makai's grand posturing causes the bulky leader to look askance at the youth's exuberance, but a hefty hand clapping on the ninja's shoulder shows the man has decided to err on the side of agreeableness, though his eyes remain guarded.
"A Legendary? You will have to share the story," he says. "You must be mighty indeed to have enemies of that stature, and I'm sure it will be most wroth with you when it returns from its defeat." He gives Makai's shoulder a squeeze. "But you are under the protection of Shallowstream, and this is Cobalt Springs! No harm will come to you here."
He seems rather certain about that.
"Truth be told," he continues. "There may be no fighting at all, if luck is with us. The Turnbrook's are capable fighters, as well we know," he adds, sardonically. "So if stealth fails us, we would be be pleased to have your sword and Pokemon on our side, provided you promise to beget no blood-debt on our behalf."
That means don't kill anyone, if you were wondering. This is a peaceful raid.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
All this talk gives Elise the time and context she needs to make some sense of the situation. A cattle raid is definitely on the modest side of Cobaltine neighborly interactions, roughly similar to a sporting event, complete with good-natured antagonism, keeping score via heads of cattle stolen in which settlement's favor, and of course the occasional maiming (when armed folk and trained Pokemon clash, even the most careful melees can lead to incident). This is one of those areas that Dalinda had some difficulty communicating, not least because the entire concept is drenched in a level of machismo the Cobalt noble was somewhat lacking in.
It's a fairly good bet that Turnbrook has likewise raided Shallowstream in the near past, if that does anything for Elise's conscience.
Her grasp of Cobaltine politics is firm, with marriage, gifts, and aid being the building blocks of local alliances. Equally important to the social network are the myriad grudges, unaddressed insults, and unanswered raids that form bonds just as strong as an alliance, or perhaps even stronger. It's said that the only thing more dangerous than two allied settlements fighting together is two enemy settlements fighting on the same side, as the twin spurs of competition and rivalry drive them to outperform the deeds of their erstwhile foes.
That puts the group in a bit of a pickle, assuming they intend to interfere.
Outside influence has weighed little in the history of Cobalt Springs. There's little here that needs exporting, which neatly matches the locals' feeble desire for foreign goods, and the only thing worth fighting for is the land itself, and the Cobalt peoples have ever proven a terrifying match for even the most ardent and prepared of invaders. The land is ultimately one of a deep and abiding tradition, who's current mores can still be traced back into true antiquity, centuries before even the wars that wracked the region twenty years and more ago.
How far can the group press their luck here? As far as the local tradition allows them. So long as the group is prepared to go about their business with a sense of honor, respect for debts both good and ill, and comport themselves with the kind rank cunning and idiot bravery the Cobalt people adore, they can probably make their way without too much trouble.
Peacemaker
You want to leave the world a happier place.
-Gain one exp when you calm someone's worries.
-Gain two exp when you turn someone away from violence.
-Gain five exp when you broker an end to a long running feud. Buyoff: Start a brawl.
Makai is so suspicious when it comes to being a not-ninja that it's probably never crossed Elise's mind of the additional layer of him being basically nobility. All according to keikaku, perhaps.
Elise Corbeau - [Social Knight] - 2/4 [PKMN][Shieldmaiden][Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
"Ah!" Elise pauses, brightening. "That makes things easier."
"You see, we not only have your hospitality to appreciate, but I feel some favor is due from us to Turnbrook for services rendered. The Lady Dalinda, in addition to speaking to me of Colbalt's customs... she saved the life of a certain eager cattle rustler." she grins in a teasing manner and pats the short storyteller's hair, messing it up a bit.
"Still, warning them of your raid would spoil the fun of things for Shallowstream and Turnbrook alike, and we can always assist the Turnbrook later. My companions can join the raid or not as they see fit."
"As for myself, I was going to opt out, but the trip through mt meteo was fairly uneventful and has left me out of practice. So if it interests you, here's an idea to raise the stakes:"
She adjusts her armor. "2...no, 3 of your best men spar with me. If I win, they stay with your noncombatants to tend to any wounded."
Elise looks straight at Valdemar. "But if I lose... then you have my full skill for the duration of the raid."
"An interesting bargain you offer," Valdemar says soberly. "But your own wager leaves me thoughtful. A poorly skilled warrior in my raid could cost me a lot more than the use of my three best warriors. If you should lose, perhaps even lose badly, I might not wish to have you on my side at all. If you should win, well, the loss of my three best on a dangerous quest is trouble that needs no explanation."
"What do you say, my lady? Is this a gamble you'd take in my place?"
Elise is surprised by the chief's response, and makes no effort to hide it. She think for several moments, then turns back to speak. "Honestly, with the stakes fairly small on my end I did not consider things much more than that I believe I could take on three of any men you send. That being said, your reasoned, acute consideration on behalf of the good of your clan is most impressive."
She begins. "I have not intended to propose a wager where you would be worse off no matter which outcome occurs; I would only ever reluctantly consider such deception if innocent human lives were at risk. As for my skill, I have trained in the use of polearms ever since I was old enough to wield a weapon, and have been thrust into battles where my life and the lives of my companions hang in the balance throughout my long journey from Malachite to here in Cobalt Springs. I will not push myself to limits that would leave me a liability, and would appreciate it if the men you would choose would extend the same courtesy, or at the least recognize the wisdom of your words and try not to leave me in a state where I am unfit for combat."
Elise straightens her posture. "With all that said, a sober, calculated decision on your part seems to come down to this; I clearly believe I can win the wager or I would not have proposed it. Do you have reason to believe I am mistaken? Have I underestimated the mettle of Shallowstream clan? Or perhaps warriors of your clan possess special techniques that I, a veteran noble of Malachite, do not know how to defend against?"
"If you are unsure, you can always decline at no penalty."
Valdemar eyes the Malachite noble pensively. "Perhaps, I overthought matters," he concedes, slowly. "Conroy?" he calls over, the knife-sharpening Cobaltine looking up to meet his gaze.
"Aye," he replies, looking down as he puts the knife and whetstone away. "I'll fight her."
"Very well then," Valdemar says, "Nessan and... Tristan will aid you." He turns to look at Elise. "Our three best."
"The match can be held at dawn, so we might all have a good meal, rest, and time to prepare an arena. If that suits you of course?" he adds, waiting for Elise's response.
"Oh. Ohhh." Makai replies in realization. "Sorry about making the an assumption there...You seen the things I seen...it changes a man." He says in an attempt to sound cool. "But if this is peaceful raid, you are also in luck. I'm totally amazing at stealing stuff. Coins. Cows.... Hearts." He was planning on winking at someone when he said 'hearts' but hadn't really scoped the crowd out beforehand so now his winking late at a few different people. and it just kind of reads like he's got something in his eye.
I haven't had time to write a proper post, but Elise will agree to the terms. And praise Valdemar for the implied compliment of actually picking three of his best warriors.
I will probably edit this into a real post in the future.
"That sounds wonderful, and I'm glad to see you're taking the challenge seriously. Oh, and I fear I've neglected to introduce myself: Elise Corbeau of Malachite. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
When night falls, Ducky slips quietly back into the camp, barring him finding some exceptionally nice resting area beforehand.
List of stuff the party has sitting in their Key Items pockets:
Tanaka
- Broken Mask (from Yamask)
- Fire Stone (from Torkoal)
- Red Bandana (from Hoot-Hoot)
- Badling of Lotad (not really an item)
- Piece of Fulgurite (but why?)
Elise
- Sun Stone (from Solrock)
- Lunar Wing (from Clefairy)
If I stare at this long enough, I feel like I might figure out what the plot of Voltage is supposed to be.
Anyway.
~Cobalt Encampment~
Makai's antics seem to melt Valdemar's increasingly chilly demeanor a little bit.
"Well, we'll have to see what fate has in store for us," the leader says. "Until then, eat, sleep," he turns a complicated look at Elise. "Make ready."
The Shallowstream encampment is small, but organized, holding some two dozen fighting-age men and women and their Pokemon (a mix of Electric and Normal Types) in rows of squat, portable huts arranged around a cooking fire. The fertile surroundings and skilled foragers mean there is no lack of food, and each of you is encouraged to eat yourself as sick as you please. Several scouts make rounds at a distance around the encampment, making it a quite safe spot to rest, sleep, and train, which many of the raiders seem inclined to do while they wait out the two days until they set out again.
You and your Pokemon have the run of the encampment, Valdemar and the others making it clear that you can go where you please and converse with whomever you wish. They also show no desire to stop you if you care to venture into the nearby wilderness to explore or train, either gauging you strong enough to handle yourselves, not concerning themselves with the possibility of you getting lost (or making a run for it), or more probably both.
When are we entering downtime again? From your last post I'm not sure whether it meant when we were done figuring out what we were going to do or not do about the cattle raid, or if it meant when the cattle raid was resolved permanently (either when the cattle raid is over or when we took such actions as to ensure it never takes place).
Downtime'll be starting now, and include the two days before the raid, I expect when the raid happens (or would have happened) is when you enter uptime again, one way or another.
At the moment you're free to train and spend Exp, trade and barter, spend Voltage on prep, as well as collectively figure out what you want to do about this whole raid thing (and then put that plan into action), and/or decide where to head next or what to do unrelated to raiding.
I don't count the sparring battle as an uptime event, it's more of a pivotal event that's going to determine what direction the following uptime will take (much like planning out your next route, making friends or allies in the current area, and so on and so forth)
You may consider your Voltage and Tokens regenerated at this time, I suppose.
At some point where they can get a moment of privacy Elise informs her companions the basic reason she favors the Turnbrook. Mainly that if they were not so apparently dangerous they'd probably be paying tribute of all their valuables, albeit in exchange for being escorted off Cobalt Springs. And that Dalinda's group has a tendency to...well, usually not do that and instead talk and trade with travelers.
(Committing the heresy of actually letting other PCs know stuff, awful.)
But that's all for now, the group probably has things to do before they get into a serious discussion about who to back, and there is always more to learn.
Elise sits by some Shallowstream tribespersons. She chats them up, trying to get their minds of the upcoming conflict and instead trying to get a read at how the clan has fared in recent events. Do they really need this victory? Are other things bothering them?
1 voltage spent for socialize token /w [Cobalt Springs Tradition]!
Meanwhile...
...
You can basically assume Ducky has used [Psy Power], as he does everywhere.
But something else about Cobalt Springs and these inhabitants has caught his attention. Ducky stares at one of the electric felines out and about until it notices him staring. Then he talks.
Another electric pokemon, huh...
Ducky pauses, glances at some nearby water, pauses, looks around at the various bodies of water about. There's only been... a beaver, huh? He turns back to who he is ostensibly talking to.
Makai paces around with Roscoe, staring at his apricorn containing the angry yelly pokemon. What's it like have a pokemon that can talk to you? Or, well, can talk back to you. Part of being a ninja is showing NO FEAR, but psychic types always kinda freaked him out. It's like, who is in control here? Can he sense I'm thinking this right now? Is he in my head making me think this? Or like, is he subtly making me anxious so that I do think about these things? Is there a difference? Ahhh! Everyone else on this team is so much simpler.
"Simple. Yeah let's do simple first. Roscoe uh, show me the best thing ya got. Do some fighting at that rock there."
While Roscoe does that, the ninja turns to Fenrir. "Run reconnaissance with the duck."
Stay together, and find a place worth fighting for.
~I'm On The Rooooad~
Well-versed in social niceties to begin with, Elise's familiarity with the rhythm of Cobalt Springs helps her coax the Shallowstream raiders into opening up about recent events.
She gradually gathers the settlement has done well for itself recently, in domestic terms. An aging leader has directed the local families on a cautious course for the last several seasons, focusing efforts on their farming and livestock, and aggressively fending off the periodic neighborly raids.
What they've gained in surplus and safety however, has led to a rather diminished reputation in the nearby area. With the current leader likely to step down and let a younger stalwart take over soon, the time has come to pressure their neighbors in turn, count coup, take spoil, and seek out opportunities for glory and experience.
Taking their minds off the upcoming mission for very long is an effort and a half. All the folk present are excited as can be, and it seems like each has big plans for the proceeds of the raid, whether it's leveraging the respect of participating into community esteem, or purchases to be made with their share of rustled cattle.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile, Makai's Trubbish has a hearty go at giving that rock the buck-toothed business. Being something of a one-trick Poison-Typed Ponyta means his efforts are more enthusiastic than effective, though the area does get marginally more disgusting thanks to Roscoe's gaseous explusions and toxic effluents. Hopefully you picked a spot away from everyone else to practice this little exercise.
As for the captured Solrock, well, it certainly didn't seem very subtle when you first encountered it, but maybe that's just what it wanted you to think.
Tricky customers, these Psychic Types.
~~Meet My Friends Along The Way~
Uniquely for human settlements thus far, Ducky's mystic senses detect very little difference between the Shallowstream Encampment and the surrounding wilderness, its mortal denizens fitting in about as well as anything else he's observed here, including the wild Pokemon (which admittedly, has only been that one Bidoof thus far...).
Even the trainers he's been traveling with seem to be blending in, with only a few snags to the contrary.
Yeah, lots.
The Luxio replies, in a rasping, but friendly, growl.
They're good times. This is a great place for them since even if there's no rain, the lightning doesn't start brush fires.
I'm devastated to report I can't seem to find my favorite playlist of pokemon music that I made ample use of in the beginning of this and a lot of DarkRED. Marsh, might have need of your archiving skills to rectify this terrible happening and restore access to all songs vaguely like silly psyduck.
Ducky doesn't visibly react to Fenrir's arrival, which might seem to be a kind of cool-guy thing to do in a hypothetical struggle for dominance of this nascent detective duo, except anyone who's even vaguely familiar with Ducky knows that's pretty much how he always acts, and he's probably just overanalyzing something inane in lieu of being aware of his surroundings.
No water types around? Or does Shallowstream favor electric types?
This place seems very harmonious. Pokemon and human, Malachite and Cobalt alike is in-tune with the flows. ...mostly.
...mostly.
That second line was meant to debrief Fenrir, but Ducky does not turn from his current position to Fenrir to make it clear. Ducky certainly isn't going to complain if they both respond, that would involve expending effort.
Well, no. I see quite a few, but I don't see them for very long.
Being an Electric Type and all. I guess you could say we're pretty favored 'cause a that.
The smug Luxio crosses its paws, definitely not noticing that Ducky might be talking to someone else.
You mean 'flows' like a current, or what?
Ducky's understanding of the landscape doesn't seem to be common knowledge among his peers, but then he's been largely going off his own research and senses. Maybe if he could find another Psychic Type, they could compare notes.
So I am working on a character here, let's see if I don't mess it up.
=============
Name: Kaziki Hero
Class: Brave Swordsman
Age: 19
=============
Physique: 4
Knowledge: 1
Mobility: 2
Network: 2
=============
Voltage: 3
Support:
=============
Ambitions: Best There Ever Was
There is someone who is always better than you. Beat them.
Gain 1xp when fight someone who you perceive is stronger than you.
Gain 3xp when you defeat a powerful foe with by yourself (or just your Pokemon.)
Buyoff: When you turn down a fight against a strong foe for any reason.
Trainer Exp:
=============
=============
Name: Jester
Species: Gastly
Type: Ghost/Poison
=============
Loyalty: Neutral
Demeanor: Mischievous
Need: Praise
Quirk: Is Green instead of purple
=============
Weak: Ghost; Psychic; Dark
Resist: Poison; Bug; Grass; Fairy; Fighting; Ground
=============
Moves: Lick (Physical, Ghost, Harassing HP)
Shadow Ball (Special, Ghost, Harassing SD)
=============
Stamina: 11
=============
HP 3 # At 3 # Df 4 #
Sp 3 # SA 5 # SD 5 #
=============
Assists: [Power 1], [Intuit 2], [Run 1][Sneak 3]
=============
=============
Name: Soulage
Species: Honedge
Type: Steal/Ghost
=============
Loyalty: Friendly
Demeanor: Quick to Anger
Need: A Challenging Fight
Quirk: The cloth at Its end is black with a light gray swell pattern at the end.
=============
Weak: Ground, Ghost, Fire, Dark
Resist: Flying, Rock, Psychic, Dragon, Fighting, Poison
=============
Moves: Sword Dance (Status, Normal, Boosting (ATK))
Fury Cutter (Physical, Steel, Focus)
Slash (Physical, Steel, ???)
=============
Stamina: 12
=============
HP 5 # At 5 # Df 4 #
Sp 2 # SA 3 # SD 2 #
=============
Assists: [Power 3], [Intuit 2], [Run 2][Cut 2]
=============
Background (Will change based on some new info I got.)
Kaziki's mother was pregnant when Kaziki's father died in the war. He had been a swordsmen, fighting on the front lines. Kaziki grew up wanted to be a great swordsmen, so he would never suffer the fate of his father. Growing up, Kaziki studied many different kinds of sword styles. However, he never had a Pokemon of his own as he originally thought that he could be stronger without relying on them. Kaziki grew up in Silver Outpost, a small hobble of shacks and tents that lies west of the ruins of Chalcedony. The residents there stay for different reasons, to look for lost treasures of the city, or to deal with the spirits that haunt the place. Kaziki however, was there because Chalcedony had been his parent's home before the war. His father had died there and his mother, a poor broken soul, couldn't handle leaving the area. When a young girl when missing among the ruins, the scavengers tried to find her but the wild Pokemon attacked, worst than anything they had seen before. However, Kaziki couldn't let the girl be lost. So at night he snuck out and searched himself. In the rock tunnel north of the town, armed with only a bamboo training sword, he faced a Zubats, Geodudes, and even a Machop. But deep within the tunnel, Kaziki found a hidden section of the cave, which he had never seen before. Inside he found the girl, unconscious, next to a short sword. But as he started making his way towards the girl, the sword's gem opened up and attacked Kaziki. He fought against the insane blade, parrying each attack, blocking each blow. The fight lasted all night with neither side giving in. But finally, the Honedge stopped and bowed to Kaziki. He then picked up the Honedge by it hilt and from then on Kaziki wielded Honedage, which he named Soulage.
However, the extremely aggressive Pokemon activity around Chalcedony didn't let up. Priests tried to calm the spirits but without luck. For weeks no one would dare come to the ruins. One night, during an evening of sparring, Soulage suddenly started acting up. Kaziki couldn't control him. That when they saw a man in green armor. He drew his sword and attacked Kaziki. Soulage and Kaziki fought back but the man disappeared. For the next few weeks, people reported an armored man suddenly appearing before some of the wild Pokemon started acting odd. Even some of the tamed Pokemon would act up. Kaziki and Soulage searched the surrounding areas until he found the armored man at a shire for the fallen warriors. The armored man turned towards Kaziki and once again stuck at Kaziki. However, this time Kaziki and Soulage were ready. They ducked under the armored man's blade before spinning around and striking it's side. The armored man's form disappeared, revealing that it was a green Gastly. The Gastly laughed before it returned to it's warrior form. The three sparred again and again until finally the Gastly was defeated. Kaziki thought that it was over, the Ghost Pokemon faded away and it's elemental form blew away with the wind. Even his mother's mental state has lighten. However, the next day, the Gastly returned, this time to haunt the warrior that defeated him. Kaziki's mother became ever worst than before and Kaziki had to leave home, for his mother's sake, as the Gastly wouldn't leave him alone. The Jester, as it's come to be known as, has since then hung around Kaziki, always a bane to the warrior and his Sword Pokemon. It has, even on occasion, fought on the side of Kaziki, listening to his orders but neither of Kaziki's Pokemon stay in Acorn Balls. The Jester mostly just stays hidden until he feels like showing himself, while Soulage is usually carried on Kaziki's back, using it's cloth to hold on to the young warrior.
A Pokemon immune to half the Types in the game is kinda hilarious.
From the look of things, you copied over the weaknesses and resistances from the game (and swapped resistances with immunities on Honedge ). For this system you actually have to manually pick those, since you only get so many, though trying to stick close to the Pokemon's canon vulnerabilities and strengths isn't a bad idea.
It's pretty simple, you just pick any number of weaknesses, though 3-6 is pretty standard, and then get to pick an equal amount of resistances, plus an additional two for good measure. So if you decide to stick with four Weaknesses for Honedge (Ground, Ghost, Fire, Dark), you can pick six Types for it to resist (which is a bummer for Steel Types, but Ice and Grass Types are usually pretty happy). Immunities don't currently exist outside of a few Abilities, for mostly the same reason they don't exist in the Mystery Dungeon series.
For Exp counts, Jester looks like he cost 57 (52 on stats, 5 on assists, 0 on moves) and Soulage looks like 56 (46 on stats, 9 on assists, 1 on moves). That would leave you with 13 unspent, which you can save if you like for future training sessions (just put them under Trainer Exp if that's the case).
Background looks good, pending working something out about Lavender Town/Chalcedony.
Incidentally, if any old players who have dropped the game happen to have the free time/inclination to pick up the game again, it would be nice to have you back. (@Shock G, @Daypigeon, @Terrendos, @cB557, etc, etc)
You're right on those numbers. I keep adding that first level since the Template was - and not 1. So that's a lot of unspent xp. Working on background remake now.
Psychic flows. Similar to the water flows, I suppose. Resemblance is only on the surface.
Might be because of how the humans live.
Are there any psychic types around?
Thinking about what on Earth Elise is going to do... maybe boasting (possibly alongside Makai) about her accomplishments? Kinda like a fascinate exploit except targeting a group of people and thus less effective on any one individual?
"Hmmm, ok. You can throw gunk. That's cool (kinda). Have you tried through different kinds of gunk?"
"Like say instead of the melty stinky gunk, like...hmmm." Makai is having trouble thinking of a more useful kind of thing than poison to throw at people. Amakusa shakes his head, no no no. That's dumb. "Oh hey. You pulled that doll outta no where. That's a prtetty neat trick! What else can you conjure? Like something you never did before."
Roscoe gets real focused. And digging down deep he pulls out a glass jar of what looks like honey or jam! It's got pictures of happy pokemon on it. "Wow, what's that amazing ho-"
Before Makai can finish, Roscoe too happy with his own results, runs over to share. He immediately trips, and drops the jar on the ground. Goop slashing all on Makai's feet. It's heinous. It's got a sickening almost organic scent to it, that is also sweet?? Which somehow makes it even worse.
While Makai is grossed out Iktomi entranced. She runs down and nibbles on the ninja's gross sticky feet. "Hey, hey! Knock it off." Iktomi bites less aggressively. Also Makai find himself surrounded by flies and gnats. He flails around like a big goober.
"Alright! Alright! Enough training for you. Great Job Roscoe." He says hurriedly before things can get worse. Iktomi idly zaps the the bugs pestering makai and trying to steal her meal.
"Mr. Shouty it's your turn." He says before calling out the Solrock.
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~
Quit playing coy bucko. We want answers.
Like why are all you electric types here, should you be in like... a not...wet...water place?
Fenrir confronts the fact he doesn't know anything about other pokemon "types". And like he does with all things that he doesnt understand he destroys and disregards it.
Whatever. I don't care. Tell me your secrets weird blue cat.
Psychic flows. Similar to the water flows, I suppose. Resemblance is only on the surface.
I was thinking more like an electrical current.
But hey, whatever analogy jolts your bolt.
Are there any psychic types around?
Not that I know about, and I'm pretty sure I would if there was.
You could try asking around one of them bigger human places, with the wood walls. Lotta weirdos hang out around there.
[Angry Houndour Noises]
Where else should we be, smart guy? Maybe hanging out in a desert with a bunch of Ground Types? No thanks.
I go where I want and do what I want. Anyone has a problem with that they can get zapped.
~Cobalt Springs~
With a sizzling pop, Makai releases the recently captured Solrock from its Apricorn, the Meteorite Pokemon coalescing into the bright sunlight in a swirl of grey and orange.
It looks... a little different then it did before, its coloring slightly duller, though that might just be because you're finally seeing it in clear daylight instead of the shadows of a dim cavern. Although it was never terribly expressive, thanks to its permanently stony countenance, it also seems far less bombastic, its movements chilly and precise as it silently turns to regard the mid-day sun shimmering overhead.
While this is ostensibly a better reaction than the shouting and the violence, it's more than a little unnerving.
Elise Corbeau - [Social Knight] - 3/4 [PKMN][Shieldmaiden][Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
~Shallowstream Encampment~
"Come on out, Cyrus."
Elise releases the recent rhyhorn, Zeal fluttering by the knight's side.
What had attracted her interest in the pokemon seemingly popping into being by the Lord of Magma's broiling arrival was its seeming use as a combat mount, both to get her around the battlefield and keep her safe during.
Also, she should probably figure out what his deal is. A training exercise seems a productive enough meet-and-greet.
Thinking back to her time spent alongside soldiers of two towns (perhaps more towns than that, considering Malachite's relatively accepting nature. It was at least 3 with Leander) and the academy, surely she's seen some instances of such combat mount training. Maybe she could even get some of the locals in on it, have at least a few pleasant memories among the Shallowstream before she likely takes three of their fighters out of commission. The leader seems perturbed, maybe she overestimated how spirited and competitive they might be.
Yes that is actually an extremely weak Vileplume, but I ventured out onto the lightless streets of my hometown at 3 AM to catch her and by jove was I going to give her some glory.
Tanaka, Gigen & NumelPKMN [Bell Bonze] ~ [Shakuhachi] ~ [Badling of Lotad] - [Well Supplied] ~ Volt: 4
The more Elise and Valdemer talk, the more relieved Tanaka becomes. When everything quiets down, he travels into his pack, returning with all of his tea making accoutrement. He finds some room at a fire and begins the ritual.
I actually consider the system to be called "PKMN" not "Voltage". "Voltage" is the title of the thread. Like "Bide", or "Encore".
Not that anyone asked me.
Take my hand, my friend, we will go on together.
Your heart should burn to do battle
—pay no heed to death, do not lose heart!
~Shallowstream Encampment~
The Rhyhorn stands nobly to attention after release, though its focus begins to wander when it notices the smell of roasting fish nearby, carefully observing the fire pit and its shish-kababbed, piscine bounty out of the corner of its eye.
One of Elise's fellow graduates at the Malachite Academy was actually an accomplished mounted combatant, she recalls. Another individual burdened with heavy familial expectations and hopes to change the world for the better, he had once briefly confided that he had become acquainted with his Rapidash after treating wounds that were inflicted by a rampaging Rhydon, an evolved Rhyhorn.
The world's a funny old place, sometimes.
Anyway, a Pokemon's ability to carry a human as a mount is mostly relegated to its strength. That is, its ability to comfortably carry the additional weight of a rider and their gear.
This is represented by a Pokemon's [Power] Assist. A Pokemon of Rhyhorn's size and bulk can generally carry about 100 pounds per rank of Power it has. With a Power of 3, Cyrus can therefore cart around about 300 pounds, which should probably be sufficient for Elise's needs.
The main benefit to having a mount, as Elise likely knows, is that the trainer riding it has equal access to its modes of travel, which can be quite exotic depending on the Pokemon chosen. Flight, burrowing, and underwater diving are all helpful methods to have on hand for the trainer on the go, or even just the opportunity to sit back and let the Pokemon doing the running for you. Another benefit is simply having a tough friend constantly on hand in case of any danger, most riders train their mounts to turn towards sources of damage, providing an excellent bulwark against any weapons, projectiles, or elemental attacks that come their way.
Like an active Pokemon, a Pokemon that is being ridden around may automatically intercede to [Cover] a Trainer that is riding it when the rider is attacked.
Finally, perhaps the most crucial part about riding around a Pokemon is that you should be absolutely certain that the Pokemon you intend to have carry you around isn't going to throw you off a cliff or roll on top of you as soon as you drop your guard. While some trainers enjoy the adrenaline rush of taming a Pokemon by getting on its back and holding on for dear life, putting yourself at the mercy of a strong, vindictive mount is a sure way to shorten your lifespan.
Honestly, Cyrus has been the very model of deference and mildness since she caught him. In many ways the Rhyhorn seems to be the opposite of the furious, raging behemoth it served as a harbinger for in the streets of New Quartz.
You could try working on its Loyalty, or invest some Experience into some movement Assists to take advantage of. Elise isn't exactly [Mobile] so even a few ranks in [Run] might come in handy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Conroy watches the monk unpack his hot leaf beverage gear with a steady, even gaze.
"Aye," he replies patiently to the offer, hands carefully crossed over his knees. "Could do."
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~
They have those here? Do you know where?
You mean human towns, or deserts?
I don't really know either way. I don't think there's any deserts nearby.
Posts
[PKMN] [Shieldmaiden] [Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
~Cobalt Encampment~ :whistle:
Elise slowly stands up.
"Valdemar... what kind of raid?" she queries, mostly to stall for time; as far as she's concerned what they are trying to take via force is either going to be too insignificant for them to continue on with their new guests, or too harsh for Elise and her companions to tolerate. From what she's heard, it could be a simple cattle raid that might be insignificant to these people, but she feels honorbound to not avert her eyes...
She tries to recall what she heard from Dalinda of inter-clan diplomacy. Bonds are probably formed with marriages and gifts, requests for help become favors owed or repaid. Is that right?
She's pretty sure they don't have any of those things to offer, except for a favor, which might be viewed suspiciously when offered from outsiders who are not necessarily going to stick around. Maybe appeal to their shared Cobalt Springs identity?
Speaking of that... when was the last time outsiders were actually strong enough to have an effect on politics here? Pushing too hard could get Cobalt Springs to unify..against the party. Does she have any idea how much leeway they have?
ACRONYM="3"]P[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="0"]K[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="3"]M[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="0"]N[/ACRONYM [Newly Sharpened Kunais]
Iktomi | Fenrir | Roscoe | ?????
~Cobalt Encampment~
"Ha! What luck we have, to find friends to not only provide us with food, but also chance for repayment of their kindness through glorious battle."
"You may not tell this from the look of us, but we're no strangers to war. Before our jaunt beneath the mountain we helped the people of Quartz fight a war for their homeland and our pokemon slayed a Legendary the size of a mountian!" Makai brags, trying to change the subject and downplay connections the party's connections with Dalina and Turnbrook.
"We steal cattle," Valdemar replies, coolly, to Elise's question. "At least 10 head, or 20 if we can manage."
Makai's grand posturing causes the bulky leader to look askance at the youth's exuberance, but a hefty hand clapping on the ninja's shoulder shows the man has decided to err on the side of agreeableness, though his eyes remain guarded.
"A Legendary? You will have to share the story," he says. "You must be mighty indeed to have enemies of that stature, and I'm sure it will be most wroth with you when it returns from its defeat." He gives Makai's shoulder a squeeze. "But you are under the protection of Shallowstream, and this is Cobalt Springs! No harm will come to you here."
He seems rather certain about that.
"Truth be told," he continues. "There may be no fighting at all, if luck is with us. The Turnbrook's are capable fighters, as well we know," he adds, sardonically. "So if stealth fails us, we would be be pleased to have your sword and Pokemon on our side, provided you promise to beget no blood-debt on our behalf."
That means don't kill anyone, if you were wondering. This is a peaceful raid.
All this talk gives Elise the time and context she needs to make some sense of the situation. A cattle raid is definitely on the modest side of Cobaltine neighborly interactions, roughly similar to a sporting event, complete with good-natured antagonism, keeping score via heads of cattle stolen in which settlement's favor, and of course the occasional maiming (when armed folk and trained Pokemon clash, even the most careful melees can lead to incident). This is one of those areas that Dalinda had some difficulty communicating, not least because the entire concept is drenched in a level of machismo the Cobalt noble was somewhat lacking in.
It's a fairly good bet that Turnbrook has likewise raided Shallowstream in the near past, if that does anything for Elise's conscience.
Her grasp of Cobaltine politics is firm, with marriage, gifts, and aid being the building blocks of local alliances. Equally important to the social network are the myriad grudges, unaddressed insults, and unanswered raids that form bonds just as strong as an alliance, or perhaps even stronger. It's said that the only thing more dangerous than two allied settlements fighting together is two enemy settlements fighting on the same side, as the twin spurs of competition and rivalry drive them to outperform the deeds of their erstwhile foes.
That puts the group in a bit of a pickle, assuming they intend to interfere.
Outside influence has weighed little in the history of Cobalt Springs. There's little here that needs exporting, which neatly matches the locals' feeble desire for foreign goods, and the only thing worth fighting for is the land itself, and the Cobalt peoples have ever proven a terrifying match for even the most ardent and prepared of invaders. The land is ultimately one of a deep and abiding tradition, who's current mores can still be traced back into true antiquity, centuries before even the wars that wracked the region twenty years and more ago.
How far can the group press their luck here? As far as the local tradition allows them. So long as the group is prepared to go about their business with a sense of honor, respect for debts both good and ill, and comport themselves with the kind rank cunning and idiot bravery the Cobalt people adore, they can probably make their way without too much trouble.
You want to leave the world a happier place.
-Gain one exp when you calm someone's worries.
-Gain two exp when you turn someone away from violence.
-Gain five exp when you broker an end to a long running feud.
Buyoff: Start a brawl.
Steam
Elise Corbeau - [Social Knight] - 2/4
[PKMN] [Shieldmaiden] [Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
~Cobalt Encampment~ :whistle:
"Ah!" Elise pauses, brightening. "That makes things easier."
"You see, we not only have your hospitality to appreciate, but I feel some favor is due from us to Turnbrook for services rendered. The Lady Dalinda, in addition to speaking to me of Colbalt's customs... she saved the life of a certain eager cattle rustler." she grins in a teasing manner and pats the short storyteller's hair, messing it up a bit.
"Still, warning them of your raid would spoil the fun of things for Shallowstream and Turnbrook alike, and we can always assist the Turnbrook later. My companions can join the raid or not as they see fit."
"As for myself, I was going to opt out, but the trip through mt meteo was fairly uneventful and has left me out of practice. So if it interests you, here's an idea to raise the stakes:"
She adjusts her armor. "2...no, 3 of your best men spar with me. If I win, they stay with your noncombatants to tend to any wounded."
Elise looks straight at Valdemar. "But if I lose... then you have my full skill for the duration of the raid."
"An interesting bargain you offer," Valdemar says soberly. "But your own wager leaves me thoughtful. A poorly skilled warrior in my raid could cost me a lot more than the use of my three best warriors. If you should lose, perhaps even lose badly, I might not wish to have you on my side at all. If you should win, well, the loss of my three best on a dangerous quest is trouble that needs no explanation."
"What do you say, my lady? Is this a gamble you'd take in my place?"
[PKMN] [Shieldmaiden] [Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
~Cobalt Encampment~ :whistle:
Elise is surprised by the chief's response, and makes no effort to hide it. She think for several moments, then turns back to speak. "Honestly, with the stakes fairly small on my end I did not consider things much more than that I believe I could take on three of any men you send. That being said, your reasoned, acute consideration on behalf of the good of your clan is most impressive."
She begins. "I have not intended to propose a wager where you would be worse off no matter which outcome occurs; I would only ever reluctantly consider such deception if innocent human lives were at risk. As for my skill, I have trained in the use of polearms ever since I was old enough to wield a weapon, and have been thrust into battles where my life and the lives of my companions hang in the balance throughout my long journey from Malachite to here in Cobalt Springs. I will not push myself to limits that would leave me a liability, and would appreciate it if the men you would choose would extend the same courtesy, or at the least recognize the wisdom of your words and try not to leave me in a state where I am unfit for combat."
Elise straightens her posture. "With all that said, a sober, calculated decision on your part seems to come down to this; I clearly believe I can win the wager or I would not have proposed it. Do you have reason to believe I am mistaken? Have I underestimated the mettle of Shallowstream clan? Or perhaps warriors of your clan possess special techniques that I, a veteran noble of Malachite, do not know how to defend against?"
"If you are unsure, you can always decline at no penalty."
~Cobalt Encampment~ :whistle:
Valdemar eyes the Malachite noble pensively. "Perhaps, I overthought matters," he concedes, slowly. "Conroy?" he calls over, the knife-sharpening Cobaltine looking up to meet his gaze.
"Aye," he replies, looking down as he puts the knife and whetstone away. "I'll fight her."
"Very well then," Valdemar says, "Nessan and... Tristan will aid you." He turns to look at Elise. "Our three best."
"The match can be held at dawn, so we might all have a good meal, rest, and time to prepare an arena. If that suits you of course?" he adds, waiting for Elise's response.
I bet he's worth 3 miltanks and at least a score of chicken
Makai Amakusa - [Ninja] 1/5
ACRONYM="3"]P[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="0"]K[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="3"]M[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="0"]N[/ACRONYM [Newly Sharpened Kunais]
Iktomi | Fenrir | Roscoe | ?????
~Cobalt Encampment~
"Oh. Ohhh." Makai replies in realization. "Sorry about making the an assumption there...You seen the things I seen...it changes a man." He says in an attempt to sound cool. "But if this is peaceful raid, you are also in luck. I'm totally amazing at stealing stuff. Coins. Cows.... Hearts." He was planning on winking at someone when he said 'hearts' but hadn't really scoped the crowd out beforehand so now his winking late at a few different people. and it just kind of reads like he's got something in his eye.
I will probably edit this into a real post in the future.
[PKMN] [Shieldmaiden] [Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
~Cobalt Encampment~ :whistle:
"That sounds wonderful, and I'm glad to see you're taking the challenge seriously. Oh, and I fear I've neglected to introduce myself: Elise Corbeau of Malachite. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
When night falls, Ducky slips quietly back into the camp, barring him finding some exceptionally nice resting area beforehand.
Tanaka
- Broken Mask (from Yamask)
- Fire Stone (from Torkoal)
- Red Bandana (from Hoot-Hoot)
- Badling of Lotad (not really an item)
- Piece of Fulgurite (but why?)
Makai
- Protection Amulet (from family)
- Rainbow Wing (from Zenjiro)
- Substitute Doll (Roscoe's Hold item)
Elise
- Sun Stone (from Solrock)
- Lunar Wing (from Clefairy)
Anyway.
~Cobalt Encampment~
Makai's antics seem to melt Valdemar's increasingly chilly demeanor a little bit.
"Well, we'll have to see what fate has in store for us," the leader says. "Until then, eat, sleep," he turns a complicated look at Elise. "Make ready."
It seems like that settles that, for now.
DOWNTIME :whistle:
The Shallowstream encampment is small, but organized, holding some two dozen fighting-age men and women and their Pokemon (a mix of Electric and Normal Types) in rows of squat, portable huts arranged around a cooking fire. The fertile surroundings and skilled foragers mean there is no lack of food, and each of you is encouraged to eat yourself as sick as you please. Several scouts make rounds at a distance around the encampment, making it a quite safe spot to rest, sleep, and train, which many of the raiders seem inclined to do while they wait out the two days until they set out again.
You and your Pokemon have the run of the encampment, Valdemar and the others making it clear that you can go where you please and converse with whomever you wish. They also show no desire to stop you if you care to venture into the nearby wilderness to explore or train, either gauging you strong enough to handle yourselves, not concerning themselves with the possibility of you getting lost (or making a run for it), or more probably both.
At the moment you're free to train and spend Exp, trade and barter, spend Voltage on prep, as well as collectively figure out what you want to do about this whole raid thing (and then put that plan into action), and/or decide where to head next or what to do unrelated to raiding.
I don't count the sparring battle as an uptime event, it's more of a pivotal event that's going to determine what direction the following uptime will take (much like planning out your next route, making friends or allies in the current area, and so on and so forth)
You may consider your Voltage and Tokens regenerated at this time, I suppose.
Elise Corbeau - [Social Knight] - 3/4
[PKMN] [Shieldmaiden] [Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
~Shallowstream Encampment~ :whistle:
At some point where they can get a moment of privacy Elise informs her companions the basic reason she favors the Turnbrook. Mainly that if they were not so apparently dangerous they'd probably be paying tribute of all their valuables, albeit in exchange for being escorted off Cobalt Springs. And that Dalinda's group has a tendency to...well, usually not do that and instead talk and trade with travelers.
(Committing the heresy of actually letting other PCs know stuff, awful.)
But that's all for now, the group probably has things to do before they get into a serious discussion about who to back, and there is always more to learn.
Elise sits by some Shallowstream tribespersons. She chats them up, trying to get their minds of the upcoming conflict and instead trying to get a read at how the clan has fared in recent events. Do they really need this victory? Are other things bothering them?
1 voltage spent for socialize token /w [Cobalt Springs Tradition]!
Meanwhile...
You can basically assume Ducky has used [Psy Power], as he does everywhere.
But something else about Cobalt Springs and these inhabitants has caught his attention. Ducky stares at one of the electric felines out and about until it notices him staring. Then he talks.
Ducky pauses, glances at some nearby water, pauses, looks around at the various bodies of water about. There's only been... a beaver, huh? He turns back to who he is ostensibly talking to.
ACRONYM="3"]P[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="0"]K[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="3"]M[/ACRONYM][ACRONYM="0"]N[/ACRONYM [Newly Sharpened Kunais]
Iktomi | Fenrir | Roscoe | ?????
~Cobalt Encampment~
Makai paces around with Roscoe, staring at his apricorn containing the angry yelly pokemon. What's it like have a pokemon that can talk to you? Or, well, can talk back to you. Part of being a ninja is showing NO FEAR, but psychic types always kinda freaked him out. It's like, who is in control here? Can he sense I'm thinking this right now? Is he in my head making me think this? Or like, is he subtly making me anxious so that I do think about these things? Is there a difference? Ahhh! Everyone else on this team is so much simpler.
"Simple. Yeah let's do simple first. Roscoe uh, show me the best thing ya got. Do some fighting at that rock there."
While Roscoe does that, the ninja turns to Fenrir. "Run reconnaissance with the duck."
~I'm On The Rooooad~
Well-versed in social niceties to begin with, Elise's familiarity with the rhythm of Cobalt Springs helps her coax the Shallowstream raiders into opening up about recent events.
She gradually gathers the settlement has done well for itself recently, in domestic terms. An aging leader has directed the local families on a cautious course for the last several seasons, focusing efforts on their farming and livestock, and aggressively fending off the periodic neighborly raids.
What they've gained in surplus and safety however, has led to a rather diminished reputation in the nearby area. With the current leader likely to step down and let a younger stalwart take over soon, the time has come to pressure their neighbors in turn, count coup, take spoil, and seek out opportunities for glory and experience.
Taking their minds off the upcoming mission for very long is an effort and a half. All the folk present are excited as can be, and it seems like each has big plans for the proceeds of the raid, whether it's leveraging the respect of participating into community esteem, or purchases to be made with their share of rustled cattle.
Meanwhile, Makai's Trubbish has a hearty go at giving that rock the buck-toothed business. Being something of a one-trick Poison-Typed Ponyta means his efforts are more enthusiastic than effective, though the area does get marginally more disgusting thanks to Roscoe's gaseous explusions and toxic effluents. Hopefully you picked a spot away from everyone else to practice this little exercise.
As for the captured Solrock, well, it certainly didn't seem very subtle when you first encountered it, but maybe that's just what it wanted you to think.
Tricky customers, these Psychic Types.
~~Meet My Friends Along The Way~
Uniquely for human settlements thus far, Ducky's mystic senses detect very little difference between the Shallowstream Encampment and the surrounding wilderness, its mortal denizens fitting in about as well as anything else he's observed here, including the wild Pokemon (which admittedly, has only been that one Bidoof thus far...).
Even the trainers he's been traveling with seem to be blending in, with only a few snags to the contrary.
The Luxio replies, in a rasping, but friendly, growl.
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~ :whistle:
Ducky doesn't visibly react to Fenrir's arrival, which might seem to be a kind of cool-guy thing to do in a hypothetical struggle for dominance of this nascent detective duo, except anyone who's even vaguely familiar with Ducky knows that's pretty much how he always acts, and he's probably just overanalyzing something inane in lieu of being aware of his surroundings.
That second line was meant to debrief Fenrir, but Ducky does not turn from his current position to Fenrir to make it clear. Ducky certainly isn't going to complain if they both respond, that would involve expending effort.
The smug Luxio crosses its paws, definitely not noticing that Ducky might be talking to someone else.
Ducky's understanding of the landscape doesn't seem to be common knowledge among his peers, but then he's been largely going off his own research and senses. Maybe if he could find another Psychic Type, they could compare notes.
Name: Kaziki Hero
Class: Brave Swordsman
Age: 19
=============
Physique: 4
Knowledge: 1
Mobility: 2
Network: 2
=============
Voltage: 3
Support:
=============
Ambitions: Best There Ever Was
There is someone who is always better than you. Beat them.
Gain 1xp when fight someone who you perceive is stronger than you.
Gain 3xp when you defeat a powerful foe with by yourself (or just your Pokemon.)
Buyoff: When you turn down a fight against a strong foe for any reason.
Trainer Exp:
=============
=============
Name: Jester
Species: Gastly
Type: Ghost/Poison
=============
Loyalty: Neutral
Demeanor: Mischievous
Need: Praise
Quirk: Is Green instead of purple
=============
Weak: Ghost; Psychic; Dark
Resist: Poison; Bug; Grass; Fairy; Fighting; Ground
=============
Moves: Lick (Physical, Ghost, Harassing HP)
Shadow Ball (Special, Ghost, Harassing SD)
=============
Stamina: 11
=============
HP 3 # At 3 # Df 4 #
Sp 3 # SA 5 # SD 5 #
=============
Assists: [Power 1], [Intuit 2], [Run 1][Sneak 3]
=============
=============
Name: Soulage
Species: Honedge
Type: Steal/Ghost
=============
Loyalty: Friendly
Demeanor: Quick to Anger
Need: A Challenging Fight
Quirk: The cloth at Its end is black with a light gray swell pattern at the end.
=============
Weak: Ground, Ghost, Fire, Dark
Resist: Flying, Rock, Psychic, Dragon, Fighting, Poison
=============
Moves: Sword Dance (Status, Normal, Boosting (ATK))
Fury Cutter (Physical, Steel, Focus)
Slash (Physical, Steel, ???)
=============
Stamina: 12
=============
HP 5 # At 5 # Df 4 #
Sp 2 # SA 3 # SD 2 #
=============
Assists: [Power 3], [Intuit 2], [Run 2][Cut 2]
=============
Background (Will change based on some new info I got.)
However, the extremely aggressive Pokemon activity around Chalcedony didn't let up. Priests tried to calm the spirits but without luck. For weeks no one would dare come to the ruins. One night, during an evening of sparring, Soulage suddenly started acting up. Kaziki couldn't control him. That when they saw a man in green armor. He drew his sword and attacked Kaziki. Soulage and Kaziki fought back but the man disappeared. For the next few weeks, people reported an armored man suddenly appearing before some of the wild Pokemon started acting odd. Even some of the tamed Pokemon would act up. Kaziki and Soulage searched the surrounding areas until he found the armored man at a shire for the fallen warriors. The armored man turned towards Kaziki and once again stuck at Kaziki. However, this time Kaziki and Soulage were ready. They ducked under the armored man's blade before spinning around and striking it's side. The armored man's form disappeared, revealing that it was a green Gastly. The Gastly laughed before it returned to it's warrior form. The three sparred again and again until finally the Gastly was defeated. Kaziki thought that it was over, the Ghost Pokemon faded away and it's elemental form blew away with the wind. Even his mother's mental state has lighten. However, the next day, the Gastly returned, this time to haunt the warrior that defeated him. Kaziki's mother became ever worst than before and Kaziki had to leave home, for his mother's sake, as the Gastly wouldn't leave him alone. The Jester, as it's come to be known as, has since then hung around Kaziki, always a bane to the warrior and his Sword Pokemon. It has, even on occasion, fought on the side of Kaziki, listening to his orders but neither of Kaziki's Pokemon stay in Acorn Balls. The Jester mostly just stays hidden until he feels like showing himself, while Soulage is usually carried on Kaziki's back, using it's cloth to hold on to the young warrior.
From the look of things, you copied over the weaknesses and resistances from the game (and swapped resistances with immunities on Honedge
It's pretty simple, you just pick any number of weaknesses, though 3-6 is pretty standard, and then get to pick an equal amount of resistances, plus an additional two for good measure. So if you decide to stick with four Weaknesses for Honedge (Ground, Ghost, Fire, Dark), you can pick six Types for it to resist (which is a bummer for Steel Types, but Ice and Grass Types are usually pretty happy). Immunities don't currently exist outside of a few Abilities, for mostly the same reason they don't exist in the Mystery Dungeon series.
For Exp counts, Jester looks like he cost 57 (52 on stats, 5 on assists, 0 on moves) and Soulage looks like 56 (46 on stats, 9 on assists, 1 on moves). That would leave you with 13 unspent, which you can save if you like for future training sessions (just put them under Trainer Exp if that's the case).
Background looks good, pending working something out about Lavender Town/Chalcedony.
Incidentally, if any old players who have dropped the game happen to have the free time/inclination to pick up the game again, it would be nice to have you back. (@Shock G, @Daypigeon, @Terrendos, @cB557, etc, etc)
Well shit, that doesn't work anymore?
(hi)
Good luck!
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~ :whistle:
Thinking about what on Earth Elise is going to do... maybe boasting (possibly alongside Makai) about her accomplishments? Kinda like a fascinate exploit except targeting a group of people and thus less effective on any one individual?
[ PKMN ] [Newly Sharpened Kunais]
Iktomi | Fenrir | Roscoe | ?????
~Cobalt Encampment~
"Hmmm, ok. You can throw gunk. That's cool (kinda). Have you tried through different kinds of gunk?"
"Like say instead of the melty stinky gunk, like...hmmm." Makai is having trouble thinking of a more useful kind of thing than poison to throw at people. Amakusa shakes his head, no no no. That's dumb. "Oh hey. You pulled that doll outta no where. That's a prtetty neat trick! What else can you conjure? Like something you never did before."
Roscoe gets real focused. And digging down deep he pulls out a glass jar of what looks like honey or jam! It's got pictures of happy pokemon on it. "Wow, what's that amazing ho-"
Before Makai can finish, Roscoe too happy with his own results, runs over to share. He immediately trips, and drops the jar on the ground. Goop slashing all on Makai's feet. It's heinous. It's got a sickening almost organic scent to it, that is also sweet?? Which somehow makes it even worse.
While Makai is grossed out Iktomi entranced. She runs down and nibbles on the ninja's gross sticky feet. "Hey, hey! Knock it off." Iktomi bites less aggressively. Also Makai find himself surrounded by flies and gnats. He flails around like a big goober.
Roscoe has learned Infestation! [Bug / Trapping / Physical] -1 trainer exp
"Alright! Alright! Enough training for you. Great Job Roscoe." He says hurriedly before things can get worse. Iktomi idly zaps the the bugs pestering makai and trying to steal her meal.
"Mr. Shouty it's your turn." He says before calling out the Solrock.
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~
Fenrir confronts the fact he doesn't know anything about other pokemon "types". And like he does with all things that he doesnt understand he destroys and disregards it.
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~
~Cobalt Springs~
With a sizzling pop, Makai releases the recently captured Solrock from its Apricorn, the Meteorite Pokemon coalescing into the bright sunlight in a swirl of grey and orange.
It looks... a little different then it did before, its coloring slightly duller, though that might just be because you're finally seeing it in clear daylight instead of the shadows of a dim cavern. Although it was never terribly expressive, thanks to its permanently stony countenance, it also seems far less bombastic, its movements chilly and precise as it silently turns to regard the mid-day sun shimmering overhead.
While this is ostensibly a better reaction than the shouting and the violence, it's more than a little unnerving.
[PKMN] [Shieldmaiden] [Carapace Brigandine] [Cobalt Springs Tradition] [Lay of the Land]
~Shallowstream Encampment~
"Come on out, Cyrus."
Elise releases the recent rhyhorn, Zeal fluttering by the knight's side.
What had attracted her interest in the pokemon seemingly popping into being by the Lord of Magma's broiling arrival was its seeming use as a combat mount, both to get her around the battlefield and keep her safe during.
Also, she should probably figure out what his deal is. A training exercise seems a productive enough meet-and-greet.
Thinking back to her time spent alongside soldiers of two towns (perhaps more towns than that, considering Malachite's relatively accepting nature. It was at least 3 with Leander) and the academy, surely she's seen some instances of such combat mount training. Maybe she could even get some of the locals in on it, have at least a few pleasant memories among the Shallowstream before she likely takes three of their fighters out of commission. The leader seems perturbed, maybe she overestimated how spirited and competitive they might be.
Focus. Training. So, what should she start with?
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~ :whistle:
Queries Ducky, after a perceivable pause.
[Bell Bonze] ~ [Shakuhachi] ~ [Badling of Lotad] - [Well Supplied] ~ Volt: 4
The more Elise and Valdemer talk, the more relieved Tanaka becomes. When everything quiets down, he travels into his pack, returning with all of his tea making accoutrement. He finds some room at a fire and begins the ritual.
"Could I interest you in a cup, Conroy?"
Steam
Your heart should burn to do battle
—pay no heed to death, do not lose heart!
~Shallowstream Encampment~
The Rhyhorn stands nobly to attention after release, though its focus begins to wander when it notices the smell of roasting fish nearby, carefully observing the fire pit and its shish-kababbed, piscine bounty out of the corner of its eye.
One of Elise's fellow graduates at the Malachite Academy was actually an accomplished mounted combatant, she recalls. Another individual burdened with heavy familial expectations and hopes to change the world for the better, he had once briefly confided that he had become acquainted with his Rapidash after treating wounds that were inflicted by a rampaging Rhydon, an evolved Rhyhorn.
The world's a funny old place, sometimes.
Anyway, a Pokemon's ability to carry a human as a mount is mostly relegated to its strength. That is, its ability to comfortably carry the additional weight of a rider and their gear.
The main benefit to having a mount, as Elise likely knows, is that the trainer riding it has equal access to its modes of travel, which can be quite exotic depending on the Pokemon chosen. Flight, burrowing, and underwater diving are all helpful methods to have on hand for the trainer on the go, or even just the opportunity to sit back and let the Pokemon doing the running for you. Another benefit is simply having a tough friend constantly on hand in case of any danger, most riders train their mounts to turn towards sources of damage, providing an excellent bulwark against any weapons, projectiles, or elemental attacks that come their way.
Finally, perhaps the most crucial part about riding around a Pokemon is that you should be absolutely certain that the Pokemon you intend to have carry you around isn't going to throw you off a cliff or roll on top of you as soon as you drop your guard. While some trainers enjoy the adrenaline rush of taming a Pokemon by getting on its back and holding on for dear life, putting yourself at the mercy of a strong, vindictive mount is a sure way to shorten your lifespan.
Honestly, Cyrus has been the very model of deference and mildness since she caught him. In many ways the Rhyhorn seems to be the opposite of the furious, raging behemoth it served as a harbinger for in the streets of New Quartz.
Conroy watches the monk unpack his hot leaf beverage gear with a steady, even gaze.
"Aye," he replies patiently to the offer, hands carefully crossed over his knees. "Could do."
~Ducky & Fenrir's Double Feature~