Hayle Chapter 3: The Item Workshop

[CosmicOccurence]

The Workshop Battle
Welcome to Chapter 3!!!! If any of you are shakesphere nerds, this chapter is the structural climax of this story, or the 'turning point'. I have some fun twists and turns planned, but I'm still working out all the bones and threads that I want to include, as well as how it all works. This all occurs in a flying wailord, and I'll provide a rough map of it when you board, or possibly sooner. Please Please Please let me know anything that you'd like to see happen (in terms of interactions with npcs, items you'd like to see purchasable, etc). One note - and your characters don't know this - your Jamba Rivals will not be making an appearance in this particular arc, so don't ask for anything involving meeting them. Instead we can handle it in the interludes (see bottom section).

The Item Workshop will function a tad differently since we're all together. So here are a few guidelines I'll be using/asking you to follow

Timeline: The arc will last 5 IC days. These days will be broken down into several 'chunks'. Generally speaking, I'll keep each of you in the same 'chunk', especially if I think its important for you all to start the next one at the same time. This may change. Not sure how it'll play out to be honest. Expect this rule to get scrapped, but also expect me to try and follow it while failing miserably
No PVP. You all are at different optimization levels to the point where it wouldn't be a close match between any two of you. Normally this doesn't matter because you aren't battling each other. I just would rather not cross that bridge. You don't have to like each other, but expect GM intervention from god if you start to pick fights with each other
That's it for now. I'll probably have more later.




Interludes
Like last time, each of you has space for interludes. These are highlights of the things that happen in the 5 weeks from the end of the chapter to the start of the workshop battle. I've provided ideas of things that might interest you based on the situation and your ending post from the last chapter. Feel free to add/remove/change anything. This is a chance for you to do some quality RP that you're interested in insofar as character development, further the plot in meaningful ways without the hassle of doing combats, and give you more narrative control than you normally get with a meddling GM. Work with me in the OOC with any questions/requests.

There are a couple ways to go about this. In all likelihood, different situations will warrant different approaches (if its just you training your pokemon or curbstomping a jamba pawn, go ham on it). Others require more input form me. 1) We do it like last time where I primarily write them and you can respond to them in spoilers in your first IC post with spoilers. 2) You primarily write them as you would with any other post. Obviously the parts with NPCs would be a collaboration between us where I could edit and shift things appropriately, especially for the bits you don't know onscreen or for major characters 3) we do some side RP in a new thread. Keep in mind these would be quite brief, no longer than 3-4 posts per interlude.

[CosmicOccurence]

I Am The Hammer
To the ignorant, it seemed a ritual of bloody sacrifice. Gauntlet lay upon the massive slab of metal known as the Anvil, surrounded by bits and pieces of the Orichalcum ore. Standing above him was Angus with black alchemy hammer in hand, the gift that he had received the last time that he had entered this temple. Beside Angus was Kiln, the blue flames in his shell stoked hot. All the necessary pieces were in place. What remained was to stir up the will to commit to the artistic vision in his head. Around them, the temple's guardians looked on impassively.

"Gauntlet, my friend... I cannot guarantee that this will be painless." The hammer weighed heavily in his hand. "I have Regigigas's blessing, but not yours. If you do not want this, speak now and I will hold."

Gauntlet responded with his usual enthusiasm, "I confess that I am... excited. To have one's body remade is not something that most experience. This ore is blessed by the Forgemaster, Angus. I would be honored to be an offering of craft to the Maker."

Those words made Angus smile down at his Guardian. Gauntlet was always so sure, so ready to fight and commit. He had been a blessing on this journey. Finally ready, Angus brought the hammer down on Kiln's back and ignited the black head in white flame. "Then let the Anvil ring."

For the first time in centuries, the inside of the temple boomed with the sound of hammer blows. Angus's hands were steady, following the blueprint he had painstakingly crafted in his mind. Bit by bit, ore was fed into the molten turtle's back and reshaped and tempered. After hours of work, Angus stood back and wiped the sweat from his brow. He looked down at the unmoving sculpture before him, hesitantly. "...Gauntlet?"

A familiar yellow light glowed into the statue's head and the giant rose from the metal surface. Not quite Steel and not quite Rock, the Golurk was now something completely new. Angus's eyes shone as the Cryptid clenched his mighty fists, testing their responsiveness. Those same fists were raised to the ceiling as Gauntlet's voice echoed with a new powerful metallic timber. "I am reforged!!!"

An Old Friend
"There's only one man I know that would walk around in armor that obnoxious. You owe me a rematch, Angus."

Stopping in his tracks, Angus turned to face his attacker... and was filled with joy at the sight of the self-assured monk standing before him, spear in hand. "Horan!" He chuckled with delight, which caused the other young man to smile in return. "I was worried that I'd never see you again! I'm glad to see that you healed up nicely!"

"I suppose I should thank you for the 'get well' present." He holds up the haft of the spear. "It's served me pretty well. I've also been getting stronger and faster as I've traveled. So have you, apparently." Horan's gaze cast over Angus's armor and hammer in appraisal before entering a ready stance. "But I'm not kidding. Last time, you never let me use my spear before I lost it. Come on, let's do it again. Just you and me, no one else, no sudden distractions." His voice was full of friendly challenge.

Angus knew that he was right, of course. He had been very selfish the last time that they had met. With a resigned snort, Angus drew the black hammer from his belt. He quips wryly, "Well, lucky for you, I lost my shield in the meantime, so no temptation on my part. Let's on with it, then."

The two of them faced off, two separated friends ready to settle an old contest... And as if right on cue, a bunch of sharp-bodied Pokemon surrounded the pair, backed by their masked blade-wielding masters. Oh, you've got to be kidding me...

Shifting himself, he asked aside at Horan, "Do you want some revenge on the people who hospitalized you? You can start with these."

Shocked at first, Horan flipped his spear and raised one foot in a stance. "Someday, Angus, you're going to have to tell me what this is all about."

Raising his newest creation to his lips, hewn from stone with a crystalline interior, Angus grinned darkly. "Aye, but let's deal with these, first." With a huff of breath, Angus blew into the horn. The air seemed to split and the ground shook, as if an ancient god had stirred from his slumber and given voice to his imprisoned wrath. Around the surrounded pair, their opponents visibly wavered, as if tempted to cut and run then and there. "Wha- What the hell," stammered one of the Pawns.

With combined war cries, the knight and the monk charged into battle side-by-side.

And A Red Dawn
"All right, so this is how things are going to go," the masked Bishop told the small group of new trainers and noncombatants traveling in a quiet corner of Thousand Acres. There had been rumors of highwaymen causing trouble around the countryside, but now it was all too real.

Only half of the Bishop's face was covered with the mask, which ironically made his vicious grin even more terrifying. The bells on top of his floppy hat did nothing to lighten the mood, for he had brought with him a squad of Pawns whose Pokemon currently had the caravan cornered. With a theatrical sweep, the Bishop known as Jester told them, "You're going to surrender your Pokemon. All of them. In exchange, you'll be helping us overthrow the dogmatic tyranny that is the League. Congrats for you!" He clapped mockingly in wicked joy. Some of the trainers shot him a dirty look, but the Jamba team's Pokemon were already out and would have the first volley. "For those of you who don't have any Pokemon, first of all, my sympathies. Secondly, you will be handing over your valuables. We have to eat, too, and if you're not part of the solution, well... you're part of the problem."

"But... this is all the money that we earned at the market today...," a young boy protested, holding onto his scared little sister.

The friendly veneer on Jester's face dropped. "That doesn't sound like my problem. Rook?" One of the grunts looked at his boss. "Give the upstart here a good lashing with your Victreebel. He could use a lesson, and I could use a good laugh!" The plant Pokemon's vines began to extend and a few of the braver souls stepped forward to shield the frightened boy.

An old man, who had been quiet this whole time, squinted and questioned in a warbling voice, "He-ey, who's that over there?"

"Nice try, grandpa, but I'm the tricks-"

One of the Pawns interrupted, "Uh, Bishop?" Jester whirled, ready to rip into the masked woman, but he saw the figure that her finger pointed out further down the road. A man in full armor sat astride a rock-headed Pokemon that eagerly tossed its spiky head. In one hand, the man carried a simple but deadly lance upon which hung the banner of a long-lost house: the crest of the Sandrunners. Of course, Jester wouldn't have recognized the crest, but his eyes were nervously locked onto what could only be a knight seated on the monster's back. He looked decidedly unfriendly, especially when the lance tip dropped to point at them. With a bugling cry, the Rampardos began charging toward the ambush site at an unprecedented rate. The light of the sun gleamed off of the metal lance tip, making Jester increasingly unnerved.

Looking around at the gawking Pawns, Jester shouted, "What are you just standing around for, you morons?! Positions, now!" Some of the Pawns moved up to bring their Pokemon to the inevitable point of impact, which gave some of the more daring trainers a chance to discreetly reach for Pokeballs.

Dust flew behind Lamorak's feet like smoke following a fire, his red eyes gleaming with the prospect of ramming something as hard as he possibly could. Angus put the Throat to his lips, ready to sound the horn and commit to battle proper. In a display that could be argued as either sensible self-preservation or a collapse in discipline, some of the Pawns ordered their Pokemon to fire at the incoming charger with beams of ice, thunderbolts, razor sharp leaves, and balls of dark energy. Most missed, but a few grazed both mount and rider. Still, onward they came and the more cowardly among the Pawns started to lose their nerve. Growling in frustration, Jester popped open his own Pokeball. "Electrode, go!" The spherical Pokemon materialized next to its owner.

Things only became more chaotic when the caravan trainers released their own Pokemon and began barking orders. Caught between the knight and the group, Jamba's goons started to falter. Jester himself couldn't point them in one direction or another.

Lamorak finally loomed in their vision, head reared to seemingly deliver an awesome blow. As the mount reared, Angus blew on his warhorn. The force of the sound caused Jamba's line to crumble, falling flat on their backs as the earth seemingly shook... which it shortly did as Lamorak began his earthquake. This was the opening that the trainers needed, who pounced on and pulverized the Pawns. Any of Jamba's Pokemon still standing (or floating) were soon soundly thrashed by Angus's lance and Lamorak's stone head.

Dodging a Water Gun attack from a Totodile, Jester eyed the newcomer with seething hatred. Everything had been going so perfectly! He resolved that the offender would not escape the encounter with his life.

"Electrode, use Self-Destruct!" The Pokemon launched itself forward, detonating right in front of Angus's face. Rider and mount were engulfed in white light and, for a moment, all became still on the battlefield. Jester laughed his petty triumph as the rest looked on in shock... and then it was Jester's turn to be dumbfounded. While the Rampardos lay unconscious on the ground, the knight was still standing, albeit shakily. Blood leaked from a corner of Angus's mouth as he stared at the Bishop, cold fire burning in the lights of his eyes. The smithing hammer was raised as Angus stomped forward, Jester's own hands raised in a feeble attempt to beg for mercy from the seeming revenant. Breath flew out of Jester's body as the hammer's head collided with his torso, his knees crumpling beneath him. Another blow connected with the side of his head as Angus swung. Jester was knocked to the ground, his brain rattling in his skull from the force of the blows. Angus raised the hammer for one final blow- and found himself stopped by the old man's hand.

"We've already won, m'boy. No need for that." The old man looked him in the eye, unafraid and unwilling to back down. His face twisted into a snarl of outrage, Angus came down from his adrenaline and took a deep breath through his nose. Hammer lowered, Angus hung his head. The old man patted his armored shoulder, understanding but pleased.

With the skirmish all but decided, the group rounded up the other Jamba team members. The few Pawns who were still conscious surrendered quickly, forced to taste irony as it was them who were forced to surrender their Pokemon. A woman with a bag rushed over to the unconscious figure of Lamorak, showing her appreciation by lending her skills to help him.

Looking around at the aftermath, Angus concedes, "Aye, serrah, we have... for now." Will there be no end to this?

The Lady of Bones and Her Delicate Knight
After months of things going unexpectedly, Angus was starting to develop of sense of when something wasn't quite right. He shifted up quietly, not wanting to overtly advertise his consciousness. The camp was quiet, however. Angus had let his Pokemon out of their Seeds this particular night. Lamorak seemed to enjoy the freedom, sprawling his length across the ground and snoring. Kiln huddled next to the Fire, retreated into his rocky shell. The frame of Gauntlet stood stark against the light, like a shadowy sentinel with glowing eyes.

And there's Gladia... Wait a minute... Where are Boudica and Percivale? Worry started to grow in him, but the single eye of his Aegislash caught his distress. With an almost lazy gesture, she pointed off in the direction of the shrubbery.

Curious at her nonchalance, Angus ventured in the indicated direction. He wondered what they could be doing at such a late hour. Was the Marowak wanting another training session? Ever since he had bought that Dawn Stone for Percival and turned him into a Gallade, the Bone Pokemon had been obsessed with training. It had been enough for her to evolve herself into a Marowak, a lost child no more. Had she roped the easy going Psychic into a midnight duel?

Once he made it past the foliage, things became crystal clear and Angus forced himself to a complete stop. He dared not breath to disturb the scene before him. On a tiny hill overlooking a peaceful lake, past the treeline and open to a full moon and starry sky, two figures leaned sitting against one another. Percivale had his non-swordarm wrapped around Boudica, pulling her closer to him.

Angus smiled quietly from the sidelines. Of course. He should have known, should have seen the signs. When the little Kirlia had nearly doubled in height and firmed out, his Cubone friend had eyes as big as saucers and a distinct blush under her skull mask. During her training sessions, Boudica always picked him first and was unrelenting in her assaults. Percivale had always been playful during sparring, but there was a glint of mischief in his eye whenever Boudica tried to konk his head with her club.

The trainer had impressed upon his team that they were heading to the Item Workshop, where things could get very dangerous. Apparently, the odd couple had taken his words to heart and took it upon themselves to find what peace they could. As quietly as he could, Angus tiptoed back to the fire. He did not want to disturb them, for solitude was what they clearly sought. There was also no need to worry for them. If anyone, Pokemon or human, wild or Jamba, dared to break this fragile moment of moonlit glass, they were going to be in for a world of hurt.

In his discretion, Angus missed when the pair stood five minutes later and danced, the moon acting as their spotlight.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic Interludes

Ideas include:
Gym Battle
Meeting Mom
Healing Dad
Evolving Pokemon????
Visit Professor Gneisso and Penny (no longer an intern)
Blur

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus Interludes


A Heroic Return

Marcus put his hand over his eyes as he reached the outskirts of the Painted Ruins, grinning softly. "Welcome home," the Trainer whispered while he gently tossed out Arbus' Pokeball, the yellow-tailed Smeargle appearing in a flash. This time Marcus had left Pix behind, but he doubted the tiny Surskit would care much. There was plenty for her to accomplish in Armedius, after all.

Fortunately, Marcus more or less remembered the path through the ruins, and between himself and Arbus he was able to quickly find his way down to the cathedral. Marcus solemnly took his shoes off at the door, before walking in to find Hero hard at work painting new images. He saw himself, battling Mint with Tesla in the background, Devyn staring down the titanic Groudon mecha, Dominic near some great burning tree, and a man he didn't recognize standing over another, Doublade clutched in either hand. Marcus grins softly, giving a soft chuckle.

Should have figured you'd know the whole story already, Marcus says, looking over the wall. Although you might have made Dominic a bit too tall, he adds a second later, causing the corner's of the Smeargle's mouth to curl up. You may need new glasses if you believe that, Hero says dryly, before looking at Marcus with a more serious expression. Thank you for saving Tesla. No Cryptid should be forced to suffer at the hand of the one that killed their Prime. Dirgesong should be able to keep him as safe as is possible, which is a small blessing, Hero continues, nodding towards Marcus.

It wouldn't have been possible without your help. We barely made it out as is, Marcus says honestly, running his hands awkwardly through his hair. We got in a bit over our heads for a second, but somehow came out in one piece. At the very least Dirgesong can give Tesla some peace, and we've struck a huge blow against Jamba, Marcus states, before looking at Hero again. Unfortunately, this isn't entirely a social visit. I'm sure you already know what that mech was capable of, right?" Marcus says, gesturing towards the wall. Hero simply gave a curt nod. "A handful of Rank 7 Trainers, a Prime as capable as I am, and somebody merged with what might as well be a god barely defeated it. Who knows how many more like it Teller has? Marcus says with a sigh, looking to his right at Quicksilver. I've come to ask your help again. One question, and then a few dozen more about sculptures, Marcus says, drawing a groan from Quicksilver. Although, I suppose it's an easy question for the former: As far as you know, did anybody ever create an artificial Cryptid?

Hero raised an eyebrow at the question, a concerned look crossing his face. Attempted? Yes. Successfully? No. I assume you are planning something along those lines? Hero asks. The look on Marcus' face was all the answer that Hero needed. I see. I won't stop you, but you but you must also be prepared to face the consequences of such an action, Hero says, mirroring what he had so long ago. Some of the consequences were appalling, and I have already warned you about the dangers of controlling more than one Cryptid, Hero states. Tread carefully, if that is what you wish to attempt, and speak to Uxie. She may be slightly more open to this, the Smeargle concedes. As for your other request... he says, whipping his tail across his slab for a moment before a Tyranitar leaps from the page. Quicksilver, show me how your power has grown.

Hard to do it you don't watch, the Weavile mutters in annoyance as Hero turns back to his painting, before futilely sending his sculptures towards the rocky titan.



Teacher's Pet

You want what? Koon asks, rubbing his temples as he sat in his chair. Unlike Hero, the Headmaster hadn't known the entire story of how Marcus had rescued Tesla, and had taken slightly more time to catch up before Marcus could begin badgering him with questions.

Secure lab facilities, as well as whatever lab equipment you can share. It's, uh, for your class, Marcus says half-hardheartedly, knowing that it was far too much to ask for for the level of class he was in. Koon didn't even bother to acknowledge the lie, before leaning back in his chair. I can probably get you some equipment in the abandoned dorm, or at least send it to your dorm. Brandon would be willing to help you, and I don't doubt t he others would jump at the chance. I don't suppose you could at least tell me what you're planning?

Marcus grins softly as he slides a small packet of paper across the table, with 'Introduction of Cryptid Energy to Mundane Pokemon' printed neatly on the first page, with 'By Marcus Ticker' written in smaller font below.

I wasn't kidding when I said it was for a class.



Divine Inspiration

Marcus sat in Uxie's cave, silently giving thanks that Uxie already knew everything that had transpired with Tesla. After recounting it so many times, the story was beginning to get a little bit old. Marcus sat at the same table as before, slowly drinking coffee, Babel standing like a statue a few yards away. Quicksilver was reclining in a chair as well, turning his cup of tea into the iced variety as he popped the cubes into his mouth one by one, crunching them loudly.

What brings you back, Marcus of the Ice? the god asks, the statue lighting up once again. You are nearing the time when you might challenge the Library, but that time is not now.

Marcus takes a long sip, before setting his coffee down. Nothing so grand this time. I just want to discuss some theories I've had, Marcus states, carefully watching the statue. Uxie had refused to simply give him knowledge, but collaboration would be allowed, correct? After all, Marcus hadn't spent the last week in the library pouring over ancient books for an answer for nothing. From a purely theoretical perspective, if we ignore the divine component a Cryptid exists due to an enhanced connection to a particular Type, coupled with the power to capitalize upon it, correct? Marcus says.

A bit of a simplification, but from a purely theoretical standpoint, it's sound, Uxie replies. If Marcus wasn't mistaken, the eyes on the statue had grown just a shade brighter at the question.

From that perspective then, what is stopping somebody from creating an artificial Cryptid? The only significant obstacle, at least from what I have observed, is the power required, and finding an appropriate way to bond the two. Correct?

In a way, Uxie replies, clearly carefully picking her words. Stability is more of a concern than the actual bonding process. As you read in 'Aldric's Folly,' you know how disastrously an attempt to channel the power of the Unown into a Pokemon went, Uxie states. While not entirely equivalent, it bears a similarity. A rapid influx of power can damage the mind as much as the body, and is likely the greater evil of the two methods of failure.

Marcus nods slowly, only mildly surprised that Uxie was aware of his reading habits. Cannot some of the mental instability be attributed to the fact that Aldric attempted to bond it to newborn Pokemon? If, for example, you were to attempt it with Eggs or a fully grown Pokemon couldn't it be done in a far more stable fashion?

Perhaps, Uxie replies cryptically, as the statues' eyes grow a bit brighter. Of course, how would you provide a power source? Unless you intend to sacrifice Quicksilver-

As if he could if he wanted to.

-unless you intend to sacrifice Quicksilver, you're lacking in a proper source of power.

I believe I already have a solution for that, Marcus states, hoping his theories for Mint's power source were correct. What I'm here about is a much more simple matter. I need a way to make sure the bonding ritual takes, and am simply coming to you to ask about the authenticity of something, Marcus states, pulling out a pile of hastily scribbled notes, and an ancient tome labeled 'Magicks Most Vile,' causing the statue's eyes to grow brighter still.

I would like to verify the authenticity of a few of these. I'd rather not kill myself before attempting the library, Marcus states, opening the tome to his first bookmark.



Freshly Minted Science

Marcus sat in his new lab, ancient tomes from the library neatly piled around the room as he rubbed his temples. Mint's body was carefully disassembled on a table behind him, with eighteen vials full of some kind of strange liquid lined up in alphabetical order by Type affiliation, although a handful were becoming dangerously low. His journal was open in front of him, and Marcus skimmed his notes as he leaned back in his chair. In a corner of the room coated in strange symbols Icon was leaning against the wall, snoring loudly in a rhythmic fashion.



Marcus sighs, before standing up to try to stretch for a moment. He was no closer to understanding the material than he had been originally, and he was running out of time. Marcus glanced at his watch, before sighing. 2:34 AM. Great. Now he'd made zero progress on how Mint's type juice worked, as well as depriving himself of sleep. Still, it might not be completely useless, right? He'd at least gotten a little bit closer on his designs for the ritual. Marcus slowly walks over to his whiteboard, glancing it over. The shape on it looked like the symbol that hung over a Prime's head, but with a few arcane additions. The Ice Prime sighs once again, before turning the whiteboard over once again, looking at a series of hastily scribbled notes for each of his Pokemon. Most had been hesitant to volunteer, but Icon had been quick to respond. After all, the Pokemon had wanted to get stronger, right?

The first few trials had been very anticlimatic, and Marcus had burned through a good deal of his stockpile of the Steel-linked fluid. As he got low on that, Marcus began experimenting with the Fighting fluid, but even that ran low. Now he was down to Dragon, but even that was begining to run low. It wasn't that he wasn't able to create magical energy; very much the opposite, in fact. Icon's visit to the Pokemon Center had been the result of a massive discharge of energy that had sent Marcus and the behemoth flying. The issue was getting the energy to bond with Icon, and thus far none of the symbols or rituals found in the tomes had worked. He needed to try something new, something he hadn't thought of yet.

Marcus runs a hand through his hair, accidentally nudging one of the bandages from yesterday's mishap, his hand coming away with a small amount of blood. And then it dawned on Marcus. The one thing that was missing from his ritual.

You can't have a Cryptid without a Prime.



Iconic Changes

Stop fidgeting, Marcus commands as Arbus continues to paint shapes onto Icon's body, using minute amounts of the Dragon Essence that Marcus had diluted slightly with an inert bonding agent to let it act more as paint. The Nidoking snarled, but stopped moving at his Trainer's command. Arbus glanced at Marcus' diagrams once again, before finishing up the design, and nodding once at Marcus. The Ice Prime might have grinned, but it was hard to keep up the same level of enthusiasm on Trial 67 that he'd maintained for Trial 1. In all likelihood, this would just give him more data to refine his methods, but that was how science worked. Or magic. Or whatever the hell he was doing at this point.

Marcus stopped jotting down notes for a moment to inspect Arbus' work. Like the previous thirty times, the artistry was impeccable, and Marcus once again made a note to himself to thank Hero. Icon currently stood in the center of a ring resembling Arceus' symbol, albeit with some decidedly draconic characteristics. The prongs were sharper, almost fanged, and conveyed a level of savagery that his own symbol could not. Icon's body continued the diagram, with the center circle ending on Icon's forehead, the three points of Arceus' sign pointing there.

Arbus steps to the side, allowing Marcus to get close to Icon, balking slightly as Marcus picks up a small knife. The frail Trainer gets a half step away from Icon before sliding the blade across his palm, wincing as the cold metal tears through his skin. As the blood began to seep out Marcus pressed his hand to Icon's forehead, in the center of the diagram, and focused upon his singular Sliver of Eternity.

No sooner had the thought crossed his mind before Marcus was launched across the room, slamming heavily into the far wall, his head cracking audibly against the wall. Still, despite the pain, the slightest of grins crosses Marcus' face as he sees a great shape looming in the corner of the room. The grin remains as he slips into unconsciousness.



A Helping Hand

Rosso, remember the only rule. Not until we meet our friend, Marcus says, placing a hand on the much, much larger boys' chest. Rosso glared at the Elban Trainer, before nodding slightly. Right. Sorry, Rosso says, clearly annoyed by the entire ordeal. The larger boy stormed off, and Marcus sighed. He couldn't really blame Rosso for having a short temper, but he didn't know how dependent Dirgesong's continued help was on him following this rule, and he'd rather keep as many Ancient Cryptids on his side as possible.

Fortunately, after leaving Armedius the journey became much simpler. The two stuck to the Routes, and avoided any significant encounters with Wild Pokemon. No Trainers challenged them, although Marcus had a sneaking suspicion that was simply due to the death glare that Rosso shot at anybody who got too close. Soon enough the group arrived at Thousand Acres, and after briefly consulting with Lillian, Marcus and Rosso find their way to the Fairy Cryptid's hideaway, with Quicksilver walking by his side.

Welcome young Prime, Quicksilver, and guest, the Cryptid says, voice soft, although it does rise slightly as she says Quicksilver's name, Welcome to my inner sanctum. My name is Mira, and I am the Fairy Cryptid of the last cycle, healer of wounds, giver of life, and granter of fertility.

Marcus inclines his head slightly, and Rosso quickly follows. Healer of Wounds, Marcus says, using the most applicable moniker for what he was going to ask. I'm unsure if you heard, but a Cryptid who's Prime was taken was captured by those that meant him harm. My allies and myself fought to rescue him, but one paid a dear price, Marcus says, gesturing towards Rosso's stump. If you would heal him, I would be in your debt.

So the wounds are not your doing this time, Quicksilver, Mira says, her tone nearly as icy as the symbol over Marcus' head. As I told the last Prime to visit, my healing is not a gift, but a blessing. Those that would charge for healing are no better than those that inflict wounds, the Cryptid states before leaning forward, tapping Rosso's arm. In a bright flash of light Rosso's arm begins to grow, until a new appendage slowly sprouts from the stump. It wasn't quite as large as his other arm, but it appeared functional.

Oh yes, Rosso says, flexing his arm until veins were bulging, although he sounds a little out of breath. Oh HELL yes. Thank you! the boy says quickly as he begins to test his range of motion, a massive grin on his face.

Young Prime, tell Hero hello for me when you next speak, Mira says, before vanishing back into the tree.

So, Rosso says, still testing his new arm as the duo leaves the tree. Where to next?

I need to head to Wrystone, Marcus says, running a hand through his hair. But Quicksilver and I are going to work on some new toys. Be ready for us when we get back, Marcus states. After all, we need to make sure that arm works, right?

Rosso grins wolfishly, before the two start the long journey home.

Going to Chronicle Mira!



The Heat of Battle

Marcus set his five Pokeballs on the ground, a serious expression on his face as he stared down Leo Blackwell. If Marcus were more confident in his capturing abilities he'd be going after Leo's Secret Battle but, well, he was far from a capture specialist. Quicksilver sat a few yards away, two snowflakes slowly swirling around his head. Marcus could have said he was avoiding using the Weavile to keep a slightly lower profile, but that was a moot point. He just wanted the battle to be a challenge.

On three? Leo asks, causing Marcus to nod as he focuses on the battle.

One...

Two...

Three!

Both Trainer move in a fluid fashion, with Marcus flinging out Gelver's Pokeball, even as a Tropius appears on Leo's side of the battlefield.

Gelver, Ice Beam! Marcus shouts, and the battle begins. At first, it seemed the two were evenly matched. Gelver took a few hits, but quickly dismantled the Tropius, only to be taken out by the Breloom that followed. Pix followed the Greninja, only to be returned hastily after an unfortunate Spore and replaced with Arista. Arista was barely unable to finish the task, but Pix was more than capable, although she too soon fell after a Talonflame surged forward in a near-invisible blur. Unfortunately for the bird, Comiter was more than capable of knocking a bird out of the air, and a few well-placed bones ended that battle.

Marcus grinned confidently. Leo had only one Pokemon remaining, and he still had two in near-perfect shape. That grin quickly dimmed, however, as Leo released the largest Darmanitan he'd seen in his life.

Peño, Solar Fist, Leo says and, in an instant, Comiter is unconscious.

Marcus looked at the Darmanitan in front of him, no small amount of concern evident in his face. This was going to be a hell of a trial run. Marcus slowly picks up Icon's Pokeball, then flings it into the battlefield.

What emerges from the Pokeball is a terrifying beast, easily twice the size of a normal Nidoking. Its body was rough and jagged, somewhat reminiscent of a Druddigon, and those with particularly keen vision might notice a small, barely distinguishable mark of the Dragon Prime on the Nidoking's forehead, just below his horn. Icon lets out a roar, smashing his tail into the ground. The Darmanitan doesn't waste a second before charging forward and slamming a flaming fist into the Nidoking's face, only for the behemoth to barely flinch. Icon grins savagely, before two great wings erupt from his back, and the beast takes to the air. The earth itself starts to erupt beneath the Darmanitan and, despite the Darmanitan's best efforts, the battle is soon over.

Leo, for his credit, seems largely unfazed by the fact that a flying Nidoking had just destroyed the floor of his Gym. Good battle, Leo says, his tone suspicious until he sees the small mark on Icon's forehead, before glancing at Quicksilver a few times. He's not... natural, is he?

Naturally a Nidoking, but he's had a few improvements, Marcus admits with a shrug, causing Leo to relax slightly.

Good. Koon spoke highly of you, and wouldn't want to think you're the kind to steal a Cryptid. In any case, congratulations. Your Badge, and I'll see what I can do about getting you a pass for the Danger Zone, Leo says, before grinning as the surprise crosses Marcus' face. What? You thought the Gym Leader wouldn't notice you asking around about his wife's protege?

Going to Chronicle Leo, as well as his Gym!



Stars and Sculptures

Marcus sat in the training room of the Shooting Stars, idly sketching out a diagram for use on Gelver, occasionally glancing up to watch the miniature skirmishes occurring around the room. In one corner Rosso was sparring with Champion, while Jeff and Patrick were talking in another, trying to plan their course of action. Four smaller Sculptures climbed aboard a massive frozen Flygon in the center of the room, clearly focused on the duo. Quicksilver was lounging nearby, but closely watching his Sculptures.

The Ice Prime barely notices as Jun slides in next to him, looking at his paper curiously. Who's getting the upgrade now? Arista? Jun asks, looking at the rainbow of colors with curiosity.

You'll have to wait and see, Marcus states, snapping his journal shut as another appears in his hand, with 'Sculptures, Volume 4' scrawled on the side. You might want to watch this though. I think it'll be rather useful, Marcus says with a grin, before nodding at Quicksilver.

Alright, go! the Weavile shouts, just in time for Jeff and Patrick to fling out Pokemon who instantly started firing barrages of energy at the Flygon, who flies through it with only minor damage. An instant later the smaller sculptures leap from its back, with two coating the ground in dangerous icicles to make life difficult for the two Shooting Stars, while the others begin a savage assault with icy claws. The battle is interrupted by a sharp CRACK as Rosso finally lands a solid blow on Champion, sending a pile of ice cubes scattering across the floor, and causing Marcus to sigh.

He seems to be recovering well, Jun says, a hopeful note in her voice. Thanks for working with him so much. He'll never admit it, but he appreciates all you've done, even if you owed him, Jun says, watching as Jeff's Pokemon was taken down by the strange Sculpture army, although Patrick's seemed to still be putting up a fight. I'm guessing the Training Room is going to be more or less offline while you're at the Item Workshop?

Unfortunately, yes, Marcus says, taking a pause from his notes on the battle. Quicksilver has a limited radius, and Stormwrack is just outside where he can sustain them here. In any case, he couldn't rebuild them when you broke them from that far away, Marcus says, wincing as one of his Pawns is incinerated by Patrick's Flareon.

Shame. Jeff seems to be rather attached. After the power plant, he's been here almost constantly, Jun says, a note of sadness in her voice. Marcus simply nods; he'd noticed the same. Did Jeff blame himself for what had happened? In any case, Marcus was going to try to get the boy something from the Item Shop. Jeff seemed to have a knack for alchemy, and if he could just kickstart that gift...

Marcus adjusts his glasses as he gets off track again, glancing at Jun. If anything happens here, call me, alright? I'll drop everything and be here as fast as I can fly, Marcus states, causing Jun to sigh.

We can take care of ourselves Marcus. Koon isn't going to let anything happen-JEFF! Jun suddenly shouts, looking at the other boy. ARE YOU GOING TO LET SOMETHING OUT, OR JUST STAND THERE? she cries as Jeff is a bit too slow to release another Pokemon. Anyways, Koon isn't going to let anything get to us. I'm more worried about you, to be honest. The whole thing seems like a trap, Jun says with a frown.

I'll be alright. Quicksilver and I have been working, and we're not going alone, he says, watching as Patrick and Jeff finally finish off the makeshift air force of Pokemon. More or less taking an army, to be perfectly honest, Marcus says, snapping his journal shut. Anyways, I need to go get everything ready for Gelver, Marcus says, cracking his back. Tell Devyn congratulations at graduation for me, will you? Marcus says, drawing a nod from Jun, whole quickly turns to Quicksilver.

Hey, Frosty! the girl shouts. Got anything new for me?

Marcus catches Quicksilver's smirk as he begins sculpting something from the ice, starting with two massive swords, at least until Gelver fired an aquatic bullet at it, shattering the work in progress.




An Unexpected Surprise

Alright Arista, let's try this again, Marcus says, putting down three of his fingers on his left hand. The Muk quickly coated an appendage in ice, slamming it into the punching bag. Marcus gives a relieved sigh, before putting up an additional two on his right hand, only for Arista to once again use Ice Punch. Marcus sighs, and Quicksilver chuckles. What do you expect from somebody's brain who is literally mush? Quicksilver says, before ducking under a blob of sludge fired at his head, laughing all the harder.

We'll pick this up tomorrow, alright Arista? Marcus says, snapping shut the Muk's journal as he begins to pack up, looking at the clock. Past midnight, again. Still, he'd made good progress with just about everybody; at this point, he was just trying to get a few more tricks in Arista's repertoire. Let's go meet the others, then we can hit the road, Marcus says, heading towards the gym where he'd left Gelver, Icon, and the others to relax. When he arrives, Marcus idly notices the complete silence, but just assumes his team was taking a nap. When he opens to door to see complete darkness, Marcus is almost instantly on edge. What the hell was happening? He holds up a fist, pointing towards Quicksilver, and two small snowflake-shaped Sculptures fly into the room, rapidly scanning. However, before Quicksilver can make a report, the lights suddenly flash on, and a resounding shout fills the room.

SURPRISE!

Marcus, still blinking at the sudden lights, staggers backwards, trying to get his bearings before he spots Jeff, Devyn, Jun, Rosso, Puck and Brandon standing in the center of the Gym, a table with a small cake, food, and a handful of beers. Balloons made of Dawn's fluff floated around the room, giving it a bit of a festive feel, while Marcus simply stood there, a little dumbfounded.

Wha-what? Marcus says, cleaning his glasses nervously. Did I do something? Marcus asks, causing Rosso to laugh.

Told you he'd forget, the larger boy mutters, nudging Jeff as the younger boy dejectedly hands over a few small bills.

Seriously Marcus? Do you know the date? Jun says, her surprise evident. It's your mukking birthday! How can you do this? she says, pointing at Icon, But forget the day you were born?

Hey, cut him some slack, he's an old man now. Only makes sense that his memory would be going a little bit, Puck says with a wink. Brandon tossed Marcus a beer, even as Pix chittered angrily at him for it. Marcus managed to completely miss the catch, but Arista was able to pick up the slack, gently shoving the drink into Marcus' hand.

Hurry up and blow out your candles! Jun shouts, causing Marcus to hustle over, before silently making a wish and blowing out about half his candles, a mistake he rectified an instant later.

What ensued wasn't exactly a crazy party but, at least in Marcus' mind, was perfect. Icon decided that Rosso was his new best friend after the boy whipped out a cake just for the Nidoking, which Icon fervently guarded from all but Comiter. Quicksilver told stories of the days of yore, ones that had even Marcus' eyes as big as saucers, and had Gelver harumphing angrily ever few seconds. Even Pix lightened up for once, as she and Arista attempted an elaborate (if poorly executed) attempt to steal the remainder of Icon's cake.

By the time the sun was up it was just Marcus and Devyn still conscious, the two just sitting in silence for a long moment before Marcus spoke.

Hey Devyn, Marcus says quietly, trying not to wake the others. The older boy nods, looking around the room for a moment.

Thanks, Marcus says, looking away from Devyn. For fighting for me to be a Star, for the power plant, for this... Marcus says, keeping his eyes firmly planted on the far wall. It means a lot, you know? I owe you more than I can put into words.

Don't mention it, Devyn says, staring at the same wall as Marcus. What are friends for?


-------


Introduction of Cryptid Energy to Mundane Pokemon: Results[/SIZE]
By Marcus Ticker

001: Icon, Nidoking - Initial Bonding Experiment
Methodology: Introduction of Dragon Element, through ritual circle. Focused on Icon's head
Physiological Changes: Colossal increase in both size and mass, as well as spine density across Icon's body. Armor has become slightly bluer in tint, and a small mark resembling the Dragon Prime symbol is now adorning his forehead. Addition of wings capable of basic flight.
Other Effects: Icon has almost entirely lost his connection to Poison, instead becoming draconic in both power and Typing. Fortunately, it is an advantageous change, and carries a host of benefits with it. Slight increase in aggression as well, especially after initial attempts to saddle him, although that has slowly dimmed. Residual result of ritual, or a new trait due to introduction of Dragon Type?

002: Pix, Surskit - Bolstering of Current Type Energy
Methodology: Introduction of Bug Element, through ritual circle. Focused on Pix's center mass, with additional lines drawn using Pix's nectar
Physiological Changes: Very little. Potency of nectar seems to have increased slightly, becoming even sweeter smelling. Small Bug Prime symbol on Pix's underbelly.
Other Effects: While initially thinking the experiment was a failure, the Bug Prime symbol clearly disproved that. Subsequent tests revealed that Pix's connection with insects was strong enough to summon a horde of them to bolster her, causing her to increase in size exponentially, as well as amplifying her defenses at the expense of Speed. While hardly a perfect shield, it seems to amuse Pix greatly to use her new capability.

003: Comiter, Marowak - Introduction of Varied Type Energies
Methodology: Ritual circle, but focused on Comiter's bone for decreased risk to the subject. Utilized Fire, Ice, and Electricty Elements.
Physiological Changes: Bone has become rainbow striped, with a blue, red, and yellow band each covering approximately a third of the length of the bone. Each has a small Prime symbol within, corresponding to Ice, Fire, and Electric respectively.
Other Effects: Comiter appears to have an easier time utilizing attacks involving the three elements, and has become able to duplicate the effects of Helrime Bone with Fire and Electricity. Aside from that, Comiter appears largely the same, if more protective of his bone.

004: Arista, Muk - Replication of Specific Capabilities
Methodology: Introduction of Psychic and Normal Elements in an attempt to recreate Mew and Ditto's morphing capabilities. Ritual circle, with much of the circle created by expanding Arista's form.
Physiological Changes: Smell has diminished significantly, to the point of being essentially nonexistent.
Other Effects: While not capable of true transformations, Arista appears to be able to handle minor shapeshifting as well as color change. Can seem to keep new, highly complex shapes for an indefinite amount of time, but seems restricted in being able to change color; all shapeshifts are the same purple color, unless full use of the blending capabilities is capitalized on.

005: Gelver, Greninja- Full Spectrum Energy Enhancement
Methodology: Introduction of all 18 Elements. Overlapping ritual circles
Physiological Changes: An array of small dots on Gelver's belt, as well as Prime symbols on either palm that seems to slowly change between the different Types.
Other Effects: Gelver is now able to infuse objects with his own Type Energy, essentially storing attacks for later use. At the moment it seems to function best with Aqua Shock, although future efforts may be able to expand this to a wider range of attacks and Types. The attack may be remotely triggered at any time, although Gelver does seem to have some difficulty activating a series all at once.

006: Null, Null - Theoretical Case Study in Cryptid Energy
Hypothesis: If the introduction of additional Type Energy can cause a severe increase in a creature's power, what could a hypothetical removal of all Type Energy do to a Pokemon? If my research is correct, I believe that a total removal, coupled with an Ability along the lines of Mold Breaker, could create a creature capable of absorbing another's Type Energy in a vampiric fashion. While purely theoretical, it is worth exploring, as Cryptids possess an extremely high density of Type Energy, and should struggle against such a being.

[CosmicOccurence]

Item Workshop: Day 1

Wait for it ...

[CosmicOccurence]

The Item Workshop: Day One

The Stormwrack Sea was having one of its calm days. The water was pristine, calm, and nearly perfectly clear. Of course, nobody was on the smooth white sands of the beach. With Jambas increasingly violent war against the rangers coming into clear view, and with the region's most skilled trainers here for the item tournament, nobody wanted to make themselves into a target.

Most were holed up somewhere unnoticeable or traveling in a pack. As long as they were within the square mile of ocean, beach, and forest allocated as the pickup zone in exactly ten seconds, they'd be considered official participants of the battle. Once on the ship, it was supposed to be protected from outside violence, meaning that fear of being ganged up on by several Bishops wasn't a fear like many felt it on the ground now.

You'd seen flickers of movement, but now that everybody was settled, some for over a week and some for less than an hour - depending on how cautious a trainer they were - it was merely a matter of killing time until the allotted hour arrived.

Thirty Minutes

Fifteen Minutes

Ten Minutes

Five Minutes

Three Minutes

One Minute

Time

While everybody had expected Varro's ship to come from the air, you instead saw the water of the bay swell. A pimple the size of Stormwrack Harbor itself rose, stretching the water tension of the surface to its absolute limit before bursting. The entire beach and most of the forest was covered with a heavy rain that lasted for all of ten seconds as a wailord exploded into the air.

Of course, all wailord were large, but the sheer vastness of this creature took your breath away. It was a pale blue that, had metal tubes, tunnels, scaffolds, and vents not covered portions of its body, would have blended in well with the backdrop of the sky.

Welcome young trainers, a voice boomed out. Your ears couldn't discern where it came from, and you almost believed that it came from every direction at once. It was like it settled over your skin like gravity.

A small cloud of silver blasted from the blowhole of the Wailord, and the cloud dispersed, the voice continuing to speak. My name is Julius Varro, founder of Varro Corp and with open arms I welcome you to my Item Workshop, the Leviathan. However, with over one hundred qualified trainers here, I'm afraid I cannot allow you all onto my lovely Cryptid. I simply don't have the beds.

So, we shall first have a quick preliminary. A small silver sphere, topped with a propeller, zipped towards you with unnering accuracy. As it reached you it opened and dropped what appeared to be half of a ring. In order to advance to the official workshop, you must complete the ring and place it on your finger. Once you do so, you will be teleported onto Leviathan immediately. Of course, you may obtain as many halves as you wish, but there is no advantage to collecting more rings aside from lessening the number of competitors.

Lethal force is strongly discouraged of course, but make sure you do everything you can to avoid missing this wonderful opportunity.

You have one hour.

Begin. A note of profound satisfaction came into his voice at these last words.

[Arcran]

Marcus, prepared as he always was, had made to show up to Stormwrack a few days early. The boy would never admit it, but it was good to be home. After carefully scouting out his home using Quicksilver's sculptures, Marcus dropped by to briefly talk with his mom, making sure to avoid talking to his dad at all costs. He did his best to show Jeff around the town, although it seemed that Puck was far more adept at knowing where the cool places were in town for some odd reason.

Aside from that, Marcus spent a great deal of time trying to alleviate his paranoia by combing every inch of his city, trying to find anything that might hint at Jamba. Two of the Assassin Sculptures were almost perpetually watching his house, and Marcus had a literal army of Sculptures on the outskirts of the city, just in case. Marcus found himself wishing that Stormwrack had a giant energy field like Armedius almost constantly, and decided that he'd need to look into how to accomplish that when he got back to school. Despite his best efforts to focus on the Workshop, Marcus found himself devoting more time to making sure his city was safe than actual preparation. Aside from briefly surveying the beach to check for traps, Marcus did very little to actually get ready.

When the day came, Marcus walked to the beach with Jeff and Puck, a purple hoodie on his back despite the beautiful weather. Puck seemed slightly amused by it, although he wouldn't answer any questions when Jeff asked why.

Ever the cautious one, Marcus made sure to pick out a nondescript location on the outskirts of the zone near the forest, trying to keep a low profile. Two Primes, both in the same place? It wasn't exactly going to be a good showing. If he ever felt his Symbolsight tingling from something other than Puck, Marcus would briefly activate it, just to try to keep a good track of who was here. Quicksilver was currently lounging about but, aside from that, it would appear that Marcus had no Pokemon out.

And so the trio waited, with Marcus idly jotting notes in his book as he frequently checked his watch, as well as checking in with Katie and Tiny over Psyren's network whenever possible. The more friendly faces he had with him, the better. The group were supposed to meet up, so when he saw Tiny's massive frame on the horizon, a huge grin crosses his face.

Marcus eagerly walks towards Tiny when the other boy approaches, his offered handshake turning into a giant bear hug from Tiny that Marcus barely resisted. Marcus does his best to introduce Tiny to Puck and Jeff, before quickly trying to catch up on what had recently happened with Tiny, trying to see how the large boy had been spending the last few months. The conversation continues for some time, until they are rapidly interrupted.

When Leviathan came from the ocean, a huge grin crosses Marcus' face, and his pen began to furiously race across his journal, getting as much information as possible down before he stops, sliding his notebook back into his pack as Varro began to speak. As Varro mentions over a hundred Trainers, Marcus frowns slightly. That was a hell of a lot of competition, although the numbers could provide a useful distraction for him to sneak around the ship. Still, it would be a hell of a lot easier to get a one-on-one opportunity with Varro if there were less people on the ship...

With his mind made up, Marcus opens up his mind to the Prime network.

I don't particularly feel like sharing Varro's Workshop with more than I have to, Marcus says, rolling his head from side to side as he broadcasts the same message across the Prime network. Why don't we try to thin the herd a bit? Marcus sends over the connection. Winner gets, well, something I'll figure out later, if we want to make this a competition. And do me a favor: If you see a girl named Anistacia, avoid her. She's a friend. Everybody head for the center of the beach, and let's see just how many rings we can take, the Ice Prime says, sliding his glasses up his face as he grins. After all his work, all his research, and all his panic about Jamba, a straightforward battle was just what he needed. As he looked to Quicksilver, Marcus saw a similar savage grin across the Weavile's face, and a slightly nervous one of Jeff's.

Don't worry, Marcus says, putting a hand on the other Shooting Star's shoulder. All three of us are getting onto that ship, one way or the other. Quicksilver, Marcus says with a grin, glancing at his constant companion. Take Black, White and the cavalry and pick off anybody near the edges. Leave Champion, just in case. Don't draw too much attention, and if it gets too hot run and find us, Marcus says, nodding towards the Weavile before turning back towards the ship. We don't want to tip our hand too early.

Now then. Let's get to work, Marcus says, sliding his glasses up the bridge of his nose so the light caught on the lenses.

[Prehysterical]

The workshop was nowhere in sight. Why, then, did Angus feel like he was laying siege?

It had taken some investigation on his part, but Angus had finally found out the point where trainers were to board Varro's workshop. Fortunately, few had taken the precautions of arriving so early, so the young man found himself a campsite within the forest that he could make at least a minimal defense from. There had been no fire last night, not wanting to give away his position. From the rumblings about this gathering, it sounded like there'd be fighting to even have the chance of entry. Time for this Smith to meet his predecessor...

Everything was as ready as could be. His armor has been tended to and equipment has been double-checked. There had been some last-minute practice with Gladia for their sword and shield technique. With the lance holstered across his back and the Throat of the Mountain at his belt alongside his hammer, he's done all he can.

When the Wailord surfaced, Angus is awestruck. Truly, this was a monster worthy of the old tales. The sight of the scaffolding around the creature's frame saddens him, though. He wonders if the apparatus causes the creature discomfort, like a saddle too tight on a horse.

Varro's voice is every bit as smug and arrogant as Angus expected. Distrustful as he is of the metal flyer, Angus almost doesn't catch the half of the metal ring. So... You wish to turn us on each other from the very beginning, eh? Bastard... And as ambitious and excited as these young trainers were, they would eagerly comply with those instructions. No doubt that some would take that last piece of advice to heart...

Not him, Angus decides. Get the ring, get on the ship. That's all that matters right now... With one hour to find himself aboard the airship, Angus cannot even think of using his own skills to bypass the ring completion requirement. For now, until he had a better handle on things, Angus would have to play by Varro's rules.

Briefly, Angus debates speed versus keeping a low profile. Ultimately, Angus decides that being mounted makes him less attractive of a target. Releasing Lamorak from his Worldseed, Angus mounts him and takes up his lance. The rockhead tosses his head, sensing the tension in the air. "All right, lad, let's see if we can't make this quick..." Tapping his heel against the Pokemon's barrel, Angus sends Lamorak surging forward.

For a melee combatant like himself, staying back is out of the question. Initiative and force are all that he has on his side as Angus looks for a soul who seems deserving of a good thrashing.

[CosmicOccurence]

The workshop was nowhere in sight. Why, then, did Angus feel like he was laying siege?

It had taken some investigation on his part, but Angus had finally found out the point where trainers were to board Varro's workshop. Fortunately, few had taken the precautions of arriving so early, so the young man found himself a campsite within the forest that he could make at least a minimal defense from. There had been no fire last night, not wanting to give away his position. From the rumblings about this gathering, it sounded like there'd be fighting to even have the chance of entry. Time for this Smith to meet his predecessor...

Everything was as ready as could be. His armor has been tended to and equipment has been double-checked. There had been some last-minute practice with Gladia for their sword and shield technique. With the lance holstered across his back and the Throat of the Mountain at his belt alongside his hammer, he's done all he can.

When the Wailord surfaced, Angus is awestruck. Truly, this was a monster worthy of the old tales. The sight of the scaffolding around the creature's frame saddens him, though. He wonders if the apparatus causes the creature discomfort, like a saddle too tight on a horse.

Varro's voice is every bit as smug and arrogant as Angus expected. Distrustful as he is of the metal flyer, Angus almost doesn't catch the half of the metal ring. So... You wish to turn us on each other from the very beginning, eh? Bastard... And as ambitious and excited as these young trainers were, they would eagerly comply with those instructions. No doubt that some would take that last piece of advice to heart...

Not him, Angus decides. Get the ring, get on the ship. That's all that matters right now... With one hour to find himself aboard the airship, Angus cannot even think of using his own skills to bypass the ring completion requirement. For now, until he had a better handle on things, Angus would have to play by Varro's rules.

Briefly, Angus debates speed versus keeping a low profile. Ultimately, Angus decides that being mounted makes him less attractive of a target. Releasing Lamorak from his Worldseed, Angus mounts him and takes up his lance. The rockhead tosses his head, sensing the tension in the air. "All right, lad, let's see if we can't make this quick..." Tapping his heel against the Pokemon's barrel, Angus sends Lamorak surging forward.

For a melee combatant like himself, staying back is out of the question. Initiative and force are all that he has on his side as Angus looks for a soul who seems deserving of a good thrashing.

You did indeed seem like a menacing target, as the only person you encountered fled on their Rapidash rather than face you. The rest you assumed were avoiding the crazy man in armor on a giant stone dinosaur with a lance in his hand, picking more conventional targets that they figured wouldn't impale with a big weapon. Southerners were strange like that sometimes.

You did crash through a few strange moving ice sculptures. They weren't as powerful as a trainer's Pokemon and seemed to be operating autonomously, almost like the mechas you'd encountered in the modern anvils of Central City. Whatever they were, you managed to get through an encounter with two of them with little more than a few scratches on your armor.

However, after clearing those two, you finally encountered a person who seemed willing to do combat with you. He walked through the forest, a relatively plain man with wispy black hair. A set of Pokeballs hung on his belt, but he hadn't released any Pokemon yet.

However, you did notice that hanging from his ears were two earrings, meaning he already had enough to pass upwards but had chosen not to for some reason. He didn't speak, instead staring at you through the trees, a small creek standing between the two of you.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus, prepared as he always was, had made to show up to Stormwrack a few days early. The boy would never admit it, but it was good to be home. After carefully scouting out his home using Quicksilver's sculptures, Marcus dropped by to briefly talk with his mom, making sure to avoid talking to his dad at all costs. He did his best to show Jeff around the town, although it seemed that Puck was far more adept at knowing where the cool places were in town for some odd reason.

Aside from that, Marcus spent a great deal of time trying to alleviate his paranoia by combing every inch of his city, trying to find anything that might hint at Jamba. Two of the Assassin Sculptures were almost perpetually watching his house, and Marcus had a literal army of Sculptures on the outskirts of the city, just in case. Marcus found himself wishing that Stormwrack had a giant energy field like Armedius almost constantly, and decided that he'd need to look into how to accomplish that when he got back to school. Despite his best efforts to focus on the Workshop, Marcus found himself devoting more time to making sure his city was safe than actual preparation. Aside from briefly surveying the beach to check for traps, Marcus did very little to actually get ready.

When the day came, Marcus walked to the beach with Jeff and Puck, a purple hoodie on his back despite the beautiful weather. Puck seemed slightly amused by it, although he wouldn't answer any questions when Jeff asked why.

Ever the cautious one, Marcus made sure to pick out a nondescript location on the outskirts of the zone near the forest, trying to keep a low profile. Two Primes, both in the same place? It wasn't exactly going to be a good showing. If he ever felt his Symbolsight tingling from something other than Puck, Marcus would briefly activate it, just to try to keep a good track of who was here. Quicksilver was currently lounging about but, aside from that, it would appear that Marcus had no Pokemon out.

And so the trio waited, with Marcus idly jotting notes in his book as he frequently checked his watch, as well as checking in with Katie and Tiny over Psyren's network whenever possible. The more friendly faces he had with him, the better. The group were supposed to meet up, so when he saw Tiny's massive frame on the horizon, a huge grin crosses his face.

Marcus eagerly walks towards Tiny when the other boy approaches, his offered handshake turning into a giant bear hug from Tiny that Marcus barely resisted. Marcus does his best to introduce Tiny to Puck and Jeff, before quickly trying to catch up on what had recently happened with Tiny, trying to see how the large boy had been spending the last few months. The conversation continues for some time, until they are rapidly interrupted.

When Leviathan came from the ocean, a huge grin crosses Marcus' face, and his pen began to furiously race across his journal, getting as much information as possible down before he stops, sliding his notebook back into his pack as Varro began to speak. As Varro mentions over a hundred Trainers, Marcus frowns slightly. That was a hell of a lot of competition, although the numbers could provide a useful distraction for him to sneak around the ship. Still, it would be a hell of a lot easier to get a one-on-one opportunity with Varro if there were less people on the ship...

With his mind made up, Marcus opens up his mind to the Prime network.

I don't particularly feel like sharing Varro's Workshop with more than I have to, Marcus says, rolling his head from side to side as he broadcasts the same message across the Prime network. Why don't we try to thin the herd a bit? Marcus sends over the connection. Winner gets, well, something I'll figure out later, if we want to make this a competition. And do me a favor: If you see a girl named Anistacia, avoid her. She's a friend. Everybody head for the center of the beach, and let's see just how many rings we can take, the Ice Prime says, sliding his glasses up his face as he grins. After all his work, all his research, and all his panic about Jamba, a straightforward battle was just what he needed. As he looked to Quicksilver, Marcus saw a similar savage grin across the Weavile's face, and a slightly nervous one of Jeff's.

Don't worry, Marcus says, putting a hand on the other Shooting Star's shoulder. All three of us are getting onto that ship, one way or the other. Quicksilver, Marcus says with a grin, glancing at his constant companion. Take Black, White and the cavalry and pick off anybody near the edges. Leave Champion, just in case. Don't draw too much attention, and if it gets too hot run and find us, Marcus says, nodding towards the Weavile before turning back towards the ship. We don't want to tip our hand too early.

Now then. Let's get to work, Marcus says, sliding his glasses up the bridge of his nose so the light caught on the lenses.

Your four person mini army found it quite easy to root out the competition. Almost as soon as the announcement was over, trainers began to get careless. It was something that you'd noticed among trainers who had acquired five badges. It was the moment when the realization that finishing the gym challenge could be something more than a dream, but a tangible reality.

Success mixed with the sheer number of weaker trainers bred arrogance and overconfidence, which was in display in full force. There were a few trainers that you recognized as Rank 7s that, thinking they could do what they wanted, were quickly dismantled by your group of three. The overconfidence in the air was palpable, and it allowed you to quickly take out three trainers as you overwhelmed them.

As Puck tucked the ring of the third trainer into his pocket, you began to realize the noises in the square mile had grown quite loud. Blasts, roars, and quakes rocked the area. It was the first time you'd ever been in a location with so many high-level battles occuring at once. Even from the remnants of your short battle, trees had fallen, the ground was scored by blasts of water, and wind had removed the leaves from many of the nearby bushes. You could only imagine what the wars of the past had been like.

Unfortunately - or fortunately depending on your point of view - you saw a few familiar faces. A trio that you immediately recognized. Terry and Kirk, some of Elba's more famous battlers. Terry was, of course, a member of the Armedius 7, and thus a veritable celebrity. Meanwhile Kirk had risen to fame somewhat due to his aggressive pushing of what Fire Types could do. He'd spent a month in Kanto with a Gym Leader there and had come back with quite the power boost. Of course, he still wasn't a Prime, but he'd managed to carve out a name for himself despite the prominence of several other powerful Rank 5 trainers, yourself included. There was also a girl that your recognized as an aggressive Rank 6 trainer called Ulane. She was an arcane researcher and had a way with Unown. Koon had mentioned her a few times as someone who'd done well in his classes.

Well if it isn't the Shooting Stars and Green Seeds brats, Terry drawled. Kirk seemed much more friendly, but he didn't seem to object to Terry's downright hostility. I was rather hoping I'd catch the lot of you before you made it up to the ship. I'm afraid I'm going to have to stop your journey here though, as I'll be taking your rings.

Puck shifted nervously back and forth, but Tiny, not knowing any of these three, treated them like any other trainers. He simply gave a huge smile and released his Pichu, who produced some of the strongest shocks you'd seen other than Tesla. Well, sharing may be a virtue, he chirped, but even I get to be selfish sometimes. I've been looking for something a little less one sided. It's hard to show off my fabulousness without giving it my all! Ulane and Terry cringed at 'fabulousness,' but Kirk didn't seem to mind.

Sorry to ruin both of your fun, he said, glancing at Terry confidently, But I'd rather just do the rematch I came for, he glanced at you and smiled. I can't have the whole campus thinking I'm still a pushover after all. Besides, three on two is better odds for your side, so it shouldn't be a problem right?


Tiny just shrugged, seeming sad that none of them had complimented his striped bow tie yet. Puck looked at you, eyebrows raised. We could just run you know? Use Dawn to slip away and put our rings on. Not that I wouldn't mind tossing Terry around a bit, but I won't pretend that it'll be a hard fight, even with Tiny around.

[Arcran]

Your four person mini army found it quite easy to root out the competition. Almost as soon as the announcement was over, trainers began to get careless. It was something that you'd noticed among trainers who had acquired five badges. It was the moment when the realization that finishing the gym challenge could be something more than a dream, but a tangible reality.

Success mixed with the sheer number of weaker trainers bred arrogance and overconfidence, which was in display in full force. There were a few trainers that you recognized as Rank 7s that, thinking they could do what they wanted, were quickly dismantled by your group of three. The overconfidence in the air was palpable, and it allowed you to quickly take out three trainers as you overwhelmed them.

As Puck tucked the ring of the third trainer into his pocket, you began to realize the noises in the square mile had grown quite loud. Blasts, roars, and quakes rocked the area. It was the first time you'd ever been in a location with so many high-level battles occuring at once. Even from the remnants of your short battle, trees had fallen, the ground was scored by blasts of water, and wind had removed the leaves from many of the nearby bushes. You could only imagine what the wars of the past had been like.

Unfortunately - or fortunately depending on your point of view - you saw a few familiar faces. A trio that you immediately recognized. Terry and Kirk, some of Elba's more famous battlers. Terry was, of course, a member of the Armedius 7, and thus a veritable celebrity. Meanwhile Kirk had risen to fame somewhat due to his aggressive pushing of what Fire Types could do. He'd spent a month in Kanto with a Gym Leader there and had come back with quite the power boost. Of course, he still wasn't a Prime, but he'd managed to carve out a name for himself despite the prominence of several other powerful Rank 5 trainers, yourself included. There was also a girl that your recognized as an aggressive Rank 6 trainer called Ulane. She was an arcane researcher and had a way with Unown. Koon had mentioned her a few times as someone who'd done well in his classes.

Well if it isn't the Shooting Stars and Green Seeds brats, Terry drawled. Kirk seemed much more friendly, but he didn't seem to object to Terry's downright hostility. I was rather hoping I'd catch the lot of you before you made it up to the ship. I'm afraid I'm going to have to stop your journey here though, as I'll be taking your rings.

Puck shifted nervously back and forth, but Tiny, not knowing any of these three, treated them like any other trainers. He simply gave a huge smile and released his Pichu, who produced some of the strongest shocks you'd seen other than Tesla. Well, sharing may be a virtue, he chirped, but even I get to be selfish sometimes. I've been looking for something a little less one sided. It's hard to show off my fabulousness without giving it my all! Ulane and Terry cringed at 'fabulousness,' but Kirk didn't seem to mind.

Sorry to ruin both of your fun, he said, glancing at Terry confidently, But I'd rather just do the rematch I came for, he glanced at you and smiled. I can't have the whole campus thinking I'm still a pushover after all. Besides, three on two is better odds for your side, so it shouldn't be a problem right?


Tiny just shrugged, seeming sad that none of them had complimented his striped bow tie yet. Puck looked at you, eyebrows raised. We could just run you know? Use Dawn to slip away and put our rings on. Not that I wouldn't mind tossing Terry around a bit, but I won't pretend that it'll be a hard fight, even with Tiny around.



When Marcus sees Terry and the other Elba Trainers approaching, a flash of concern flashes over his face, quickly followed by hunger. After being embarrassed by Terry so long ago in Stormwrack, there was no way he would let this opportunity pass him by. As he looks at the carnage destroying the battle, he can't keep the thin, nervous smirk from crossing his face.

Quicksilver, we may need you soon, Marcus says, talking to the Champion Sculpture standing a few steps away. If you can make your way this direction, the backup might be appreciated.

As Puck proposes running, Marcus shakes his head. If you can hold Terry and Ulane for a minute, I can take care of Kirk. Even if he trained with a Gym Leader, there's no way he has our amount of experience in this kind of battle, Marcus says, adjusting his glasses. Jeff, Terry is a Normal-Specialist. Do what you can to keep Tiny and Puck up. I'll be joining you shortly, Marcus says, confidently striding forward.

Don't worry Kirk, Marcus says, preparing to release two Pokemon. If he was quick enough, he could remove Kirk from the equation before the battle even truly began. When you lose this time, there won't be quite as many witnesses.

[Jacior]

Dominic cracked his neck as his stood right on the bright beach, only slightly bored by the wait. It wasn't like he wasn't excited but... There was no reason to wear himself out this early over nothing happening. He almost walked around leisurely, brushing his hair out of his eyes. "Lotta strong trainers around here huh? Didn't realize there were so many Rank 5's still this young." He said to Katie, even though it was half to himself. "Too bad no one wants to come enjoy the beach with us. It's nice." In all honesty he'd been surprised by how many people were hiding.

It seemed boring.

Dominic and Katie camped right on the open beach for 4 days leading up to Workshop Battle, essentially daring anyone to come fight them. As a bluff, it was pretty great at keeping them away. Two people on the beach without a care were a warning beacon to anyone who thought to come near. Except for fishing up a particularly ambitious corphish, the week had been quiet. It was almost a relaxing vacation if Dominic hadn't kept up his training on the beach. Fighting was getting easier... but Arceus he needed a haircut! And to get it redyed! It was really too bad he hand't thought about that before half an hour was all that remained before Varro was supposed to show up.

Well it was his own fault really, what could you do.

When the Wailord appeared Dominic could only tsk. "Well, how am I supposed to make a show compared to that? It's like he's mocking us to our faces." He crossed his arms feeling the water soak his clothes. "The rain's inconsiderate too." He'd never get used to how humid it was. He listened to the challenge with interest though. This was what he'd come to do. To win the Item Workshop Battle and become even stronger. He'd... Well, becoming Champion was just a start. "Katie... why don't we get rid of as much competition as possible? Maybe we'll even find a few Jamba to take out." Dominic grinned meanly to himself. A straight up fight was really his specialty. He flipped his half of ring like a coin and snatched it from the air. "Today is going to be fun."

[CosmicOccurence]

When Marcus sees Terry and the other Elba Trainers approaching, a flash of concern flashes over his face, quickly followed by hunger. After being embarrassed by Terry so long ago in Stormwrack, there was no way he would let this opportunity pass him by. As he looks at the carnage destroying the battle, he can't keep the thin, nervous smirk from crossing his face.

Quicksilver, we may need you soon, Marcus says, talking to the Champion Sculpture standing a few steps away. If you can make your way this direction, the backup might be appreciated.

As Puck proposes running, Marcus shakes his head. If you can hold Terry and Ulane for a minute, I can take care of Kirk. Even if he trained with a Gym Leader, there's no way he has our amount of experience in this kind of battle, Marcus says, adjusting his glasses. Jeff, Terry is a Normal-Specialist. Do what you can to keep Tiny and Puck up. I'll be joining you shortly, Marcus says, confidently striding forward.

Don't worry Kirk, Marcus says, preparing to release two Pokemon. If he was quick enough, he could remove Kirk from the equation before the battle even truly began. When you lose this time, there won't be quite as many witnesses.

The Champion sculpture signalled you with some simple hang signs you'd worked out. On my way, Quicksilver sent.

Kirk merely grinned, pulling two small canisters from his pocket. This time one lucky strike isn't going to win the battle for you.
And I was wondering who owned those strange Ice Pokebots running around. I'd always thought you more interested in the old than the new. But then again, I brought some toys too,

He brought his thumb down onto a button on the first canister, which opened quickly. A ball of energy shot into the air, bright sun hanging over the battlefield in much the same way that the move Sunny Day caused, but much, much hotter.

For this battle I'm ok doing turn based stuff in blocks. So do everything you and your mons want this round. Map is up.

Intense Sunlight:
Fire typepokemon are immune to these effects, as is any pokemon/person with weather resistant or fire resistent equipment (a fire brace say). In addition to normal sunny day effects, all affectted targets lose one tick of hit points on taking a standard action.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic cracked his neck as his stood right on the bright beach, only slightly bored by the wait. It wasn't like he wasn't excited but... There was no reason to wear himself out this early over nothing happening. He almost walked around leisurely, brushing his hair out of his eyes. "Lotta strong trainers around here huh? Didn't realize there were so many Rank 5's still this young." He said to Katie, even though it was half to himself. "Too bad no one wants to come enjoy the beach with us. It's nice." In all honesty he'd been surprised by how many people were hiding.

It seemed boring.

Dominic and Katie camped right on the open beach for 4 days leading up to Workshop Battle, essentially daring anyone to come fight them. As a bluff, it was pretty great at keeping them away. Two people on the beach without a care were a warning beacon to anyone who thought to come near. Except for fishing up a particularly ambitious corphish, the week had been quiet. It was almost a relaxing vacation if Dominic hadn't kept up his training on the beach. Fighting was getting easier... but Arceus he needed a haircut! And to get it redyed! It was really too bad he hand't thought about that before half an hour was all that remained before Varro was supposed to show up.

Well it was his own fault really, what could you do.

When the Wailord appeared Dominic could only tsk. "Well, how am I supposed to make a show compared to that? It's like he's mocking us to our faces." He crossed his arms feeling the water soak his clothes. "The rain's inconsiderate too." He'd never get used to how humid it was. He listened to the challenge with interest though. This was what he'd come to do. To win the Item Workshop Battle and become even stronger. He'd... Well, becoming Champion was just a start. "Katie... why don't we get rid of as much competition as possible? Maybe we'll even find a few Jamba to take out." Dominic grinned meanly to himself. A straight up fight was really his specialty. He flipped his half of ring like a coin and snatched it from the air. "Today is going to be fun."

You and Katie went on a bit of a rampage, taking down a pair of taggers who had been gaining popularity in underground battling circles. Then there was the girl who thought he ground magic would keep her safe ... but being trained in the Hidden Oasis gave both of you an advantage against underground opponents.

Katie still refused to use Cavern in a battle like this. Having spoken to her, you knew his powers involved draining blood from targets, leaving them with injuries that refused to heal easily and, if Katie and Cavern weren't' careful, could kill an opponent much easier than in a normal battle. As such, Katie didn't use him much, though he did feed on a bit of blood from her right shoulder every night, a bizzare ritual that both seemed totally at peace with.

After about twenty minutes you ran into your third oponent, or rather set of opponents. Two young women, one with shockingly pink hair, and the other rocking a more conservative bun. When they saw you, they grinned.

The one with the brown bun smiled especially voraciously at you, but it was the girl in pink that spoke. Well well well, if it isn't two young Primes who've decided that warring with Jamba is worse than joining us. Unfortunately, I don't think I'm supposed to stop you from going up, but if you need some help getting a ring, just let us know. We've got a few extras we can loan you.

[Arcran]

I thought you wanted a rematch? Marcus says, watching as the orb of light goes up into the sky, instantly increasing the temperature in the area. Hardly seems sporting, so I suppose I'll have to respond in kind! Marcus says, his glasses glinting in the sunlight. Marcus' hand instinctively goes to Icon's Pokeball, and an instant later Marcus flings it outwards.

In a flash of light that is almost entirely drowned out by the sun a massive purple shape appears, and Icon's form lumbers forward, wings stretched outwards as he lets out a massive roar.

Icon, break the earth, Marcus commands simply, drawing a smirk from the Nidoking before it slams a fist into the ground an instant before it explodes beneath Kirk.

Marcus
Shift Action: Release Icon
Standard: Brutal+Focused on Icon
Lose 1 Tick

Icon
Standard: Earth Shatter!
AC 2: [roll0] - Ignores Rough Terrain due to Groundsource, Kirk is now Vulnerable whether it hits or misses
Damage: [roll1] (3d10+10 base, +31 Special Attack, +12 Attack, +10 Hustle, +10 Sheer Force, +5 Rivalry)
Loses 1 Tick

[CosmicOccurence]

Kirk managed to hurdle himself sideways to avoid the ground exploding beneath him. Still, even off balance he managed to drop a Pokeball to the ground. As he stumbled behind a tree to avoid further attacks, a Cherrim exploded into existence in a flash of red light.

Hope you didn't count on me only bringing fire types, Kirk called out. The Cherrim swirled, distributing a massive bloom of flowers that surrounded it and Kirk for an instant before it turned its attention to Icon.

Solar Flare! And suddenly a blast of light, much wider than a traditional solar beam, engulfed Icon. Even if he could, evading such an attack fully would be impossible.


Kirk Releases the Cherrim (shift) and shifts behind the tree (standard)

The Cherrim activates Flower Gift while Kirk is in range!
The Cherrim uses Solar Flare
[roll0] AC 2, Smite
[roll1]
Special Grass Type Move


Out of curiosity, how visible have you been at the academy? How long ago did you modify the mons on your team? Obviously Icon is no normal nidoking now, but how much Kirk/Elba people would know about your team modifications is directly dependent on how you've been using them on campus

[Arcran]

Icon! Move! Marcus shouts, looking around at the terrain. Fortunately, Icon understood the order and shot his wings outward, flying forward to close ground.

Bring winter early! Ice Beam! Marcus commands an instant later. Icon's horn glows a bright blue, before a powerful beam of icey energy fires forward. aimed directly at the center of the Cherrim.

Outside of Icon, Marcus would not have used any publicly, and Icon would have only been used against Leo. The Stars would know about Marcus' new Pokemon, but beyond that probably nothing more than rumors around campus, and likely only about Icon. He's been trying to keep them somewhat-secret thus far.

As for timetable, Icon was done pre-Leo, while the others were done after, with Gelver being the final one and completed a few days before Marcus left. Jun and Puck know all of their details, and Jeff likely knows most by now.

Before Solar Flare hits, Marcus will trigger Cinematic Analysis (Situational Awareness) to let Icon take his turn as an Interrupt!
Also going to trigger Chronicler on Solar Flare. 1/2 Studies in Scarlet AP used.

Icon uses Ice Beam!
AC 2: [roll0] (Note that Keen Eye negates Rough Terrain), Critical 18+
Damage: [roll1], +5 more if the Cherrim is Male.
Made an error. That should be +73, so add 10 damage for 87 total. (2d10+10+43+10+10) +5 more if Male.
Critical: [roll2]
Icon takes a Tick of damage.

I'll decide the rest of my actions after I see what happens with this. If it doesn't KO, Icon is KO'd.

[Prehysterical]

You did indeed seem like a menacing target, as the only person you encountered fled on their Rapidash rather than face you. The rest you assumed were avoiding the crazy man in armor on a giant stone dinosaur with a lance in his hand, picking more conventional targets that they figured wouldn't impale with a big weapon. Southerners were strange like that sometimes.

You did crash through a few strange moving ice sculptures. They weren't as powerful as a trainer's Pokemon and seemed to be operating autonomously, almost like the mechas you'd encountered in the modern anvils of Central City. Whatever they were, you managed to get through an encounter with two of them with little more than a few scratches on your armor.

However, after clearing those two, you finally encountered a person who seemed willing to do combat with you. He walked through the forest, a relatively plain man with wispy black hair. A set of Pokeballs hung on his belt, but he hadn't released any Pokemon yet.

However, you did notice that hanging from his ears were two earrings, meaning he already had enough to pass upwards but had chosen not to for some reason. He didn't speak, instead staring at you through the trees, a small creek standing between the two of you.
The ice sculptures are a surprise. A wild card by Varro? Doesn't seem his style... Lamorak's hard head bashes through them and they quickly become a non-factor.

Angus sizes up the other man upon seeing him. He must be confident to walk around so, and he had already claimed more than his fair share of trophies. He stops and reins in an eager Lamorak.

"I am Angus of the Claw. Who do I face this day," he asks by way of introduction. If this was to be a duel, then he was obligated to give the man a chance to ready himself.

[Jacior]

Dominic just gave the pair a look. "It's been almost twenty minutes, you think we don't have rings? That's a laugh." He chuckled to himself, actually finding the thought kinda ludicrous. "We're just clearing out the competition now. And I'm looking for someone." He shrugged. "I mean I guess we could up but where's the fun in that? And just to let you know, I'm going to wipe Jamba off the face of Hayle if I have to comb the continent alone. It's not the better option, it's the only one." Dominic shrugged again. "But what do you even want?"

[CosmicOccurence]

Icon! Move! Marcus shouts, looking around at the terrain. Fortunately, Icon understood the order and shot his wings outward, flying forward to close ground.

Bring winter early! Ice Beam! Marcus commands an instant later. Icon's horn glows a bright blue, before a powerful beam of icey energy fires forward. aimed directly at the center of the Cherrim.

Outside of Icon, Marcus would not have used any publicly, and Icon would have only been used against Leo. The Stars would know about Marcus' new Pokemon, but beyond that probably nothing more than rumors around campus, and likely only about Icon. He's been trying to keep them somewhat-secret thus far.

As for timetable, Icon was done pre-Leo, while the others were done after, with Gelver being the final one and completed a few days before Marcus left. Jun and Puck know all of their details, and Jeff likely knows most by now.

Before Solar Flare hits, Marcus will trigger Cinematic Analysis (Situational Awareness) to let Icon take his turn as an Interrupt!
Also going to trigger Chronicler on Solar Flare. 1/2 Studies in Scarlet AP used.

Icon uses Ice Beam!
AC 2: [roll0] (Note that Keen Eye negates Rough Terrain), Critical 18+
Damage: [roll1], +5 more if the Cherrim is Male.
Made an error. That should be +73, so add 10 damage for 87 total. (2d10+10+43+10+10) +5 more if Male.
Critical: [roll2]
Icon takes a Tick of damage.

I'll decide the rest of my actions after I see what happens with this. If it doesn't KO, Icon is KO'd.

Icon manages to fire off an Ice Beam just as the Cherrim sends off its blast of energy. While both strikes connect, the Cherrim remains standing - although quite injured - while Icon goes down hard. Meanwhile, Kirk and the Cherrim turn their attention towards you, as the trainer seemed to want revenge for the earlier strike by Icon.

Small leaves detach themselves from the trees and formed a lance of energy that shot towards you. Even as you shifted to avoid it however, it continued to lance straight towards you, homing in on your location.


Magical Leaf!
[roll0] accuracy doesn't matter, just for crit
[roll1] special grass damage

[CosmicOccurence]

The ice sculptures are a surprise. A wild card by Varro? Doesn't seem his style... Lamorak's hard head bashes through them and they quickly become a non-factor.

Angus sizes up the other man upon seeing him. He must be confident to walk around so, and he had already claimed more than his fair share of trophies. He stops and reins in an eager Lamorak.

"I am Angus of the Claw. Who do I face this day," he asks by way of introduction. If this was to be a duel, then he was obligated to give the man a chance to ready himself.

At your words, the man grinned. Already forgotten? the man said. As soon as you heard him speak, you remembered the necromancer you'd once encountered. He had been in his robes and mask, but his voice was distinctive. And here I thought our encounter in Serenity was so memorable. I may not be going by Skull right now, but I still couldn't wait to get my hands on you.

Of course, I have to let you go up ... but that doesn't mean I can't toss you around a bit before I do.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic just gave the pair a look. "It's been almost twenty minutes, you think we don't have rings? That's a laugh." He chuckled to himself, actually finding the thought kinda ludicrous. "We're just clearing out the competition now. And I'm looking for someone." He shrugged. "I mean I guess we could up but where's the fun in that? And just to let you know, I'm going to wipe Jamba off the face of Hayle if I have to comb the continent alone. It's not the better option, it's the only one." Dominic shrugged again. "But what do you even want?"

The girl with pink hair just shrugged, but the one with a bun wouldn't take her eyes off you. I want a rematch Dominic.
Last time, Lune interrupted our little battle. This time, I've been told she's quite occupied, and now I get to truly show you the meaning of the power that Glass weilds in her hands.

Katie looked at you. Since it seems like you two have a history, I'll take the weird one. She released Cavern, and it seemed she was read for a real battle with him. I hope you're not as weak as most Jamba people are, she said. Because I've been itching for a challenge.

[Arcran]

Marcus winces as the leaves cut through his jacket like they're not even there, gritting his teeth to try to block out the pain, with little success. Between the blazing sun overhead and the other pain, Marcus was having trouble staying conscious at the moment, and that sun wasn't doing him any favors. With a grunt Marcus flings out Pix's Pokeball, the tiny Surskit appearing in a flash.

Sweet Swarm, now! Marcus commands, watching as Pix's trademark swarm of bugs descend on the Cherrim, hopefully putting the Pokemon out of its misery. He needed to get behind a tree, and he couldn't do that if he had to keep releasing new Pokemon every five seconds!

Marcus uses Focused Command and Perfect Aim on Arista as a Priority!
Marcus uses Chronicler on Magical Leaf!
Marcus releases Pix!

Pix Shifts to L5.
Pix uses Sweet Swarm! Takes a Tick of damage.
AC 2: [roll0]
AC 2: [roll1]
One Hit: [roll2]
Two Hit: [roll]3d8+46[/rol

[CosmicOccurence]

Kirk didn't seem particularly bothered by the Cherrim going down. In fact, he seemed to be nothing but satisfied with how the fight was going. I hope you aren't underestimating me Marcus, he said. Because this will be nothing like last time I assure you.

The Talonflame, with devilish speed, dove downwards, spiraling wildly as it swept by Pix, buffeting it with its wings. At the same time, Quicksilver emerged from the bushes behind you, taking in the battle calmly. Based on the look on his face, you could just imagine the Weavile going 'oh, him again', though he was smart enough to not say as much out loud.


Kirk -releases Talonflame
Other actions - ???

Talonflame
Free, consumes Flying Gem
Swift - activates Rocket, next round it goes first and can't be interrupted (I believe that's before your mons go, but let me know if that's wrong).
Standard - activates Gale Wings to use Sky Diving (Acrobatics Sig Tech) as Priority
[roll0] - not affected by rough terrain or non stat evasioin due to keen eye
[roll1], gains Smite Keyword

End of Round 3 (only two more rounds of sun!)

[Arcran]

Marcus grimaces as Pix crumples under the birds' assault. It had been stupid to assume that Kirk wouldn't have some sort of counter for Pix, especially after the damage the Surskit had caused in their last battle. Quicksilver showing up was a small blessing, but against a Fire-Type specialist the Weavile would be of limited use. Still, if he took down Kirk then the Sculptures might swing the tide against the other duo...

One battle at a time though. Marcus quickly recalls Pix, before hesitating for a moment. He needed to get behind that tree, and out of the line of fire. Thus far, none of his Pokemon had stayed conscious long enough to make that possible. Fortunately, he had at least one Pokemon that should be able to do it.

Comiter, you're up! Marcus says, leering at the Talonflame. Rolling Thunder! he adds a moment later. The Marowak's club that seemed to reflect every color of the rainbow glowed bright yellow, before flying through the air at the Talonflame, the sound of thunder rolling across the battlefield.

Pix takes 114 damage. KO'd, and 3 Injuries

Marcus
Shift: Release Comiter at L11
Swift: Bind Pinpoint Strike on Comiter

Comiter
Activate Rainbow Club with Bonemerang as Move A and Thunder Punch as Move B! Electric, Physical
AC 2: [roll0], Paralyze 16+, Critical 19+
AC 2: [roll1], Paralyze 16+, Critical 19+
Damage (One Hit): [roll2] - Subtract 5 because I'm dumb, so 41
Damage (Two Hit): [roll3] - Subtract 5 because I'm dumb, so 41
Critical (One Hit): [roll4]
Critical (Two Hit): [roll5]

[Prehysterical]

At your words, the man grinned. Already forgotten? the man said. As soon as you heard him speak, you remembered the necromancer you'd once encountered. He had been in his robes and mask, but his voice was distinctive. And here I thought our encounter in Serenity was so memorable. I may not be going by Skull right now, but I still couldn't wait to get my hands on you.

Of course, I have to let you go up ... but that doesn't mean I can't toss you around a bit before I do.
Skull's voice sends a chill down Angus's spine. A slight bit of fright, but that is overshadowed by anger. Anger for deceiving him and trying to trap him and his sister. You don't deserve mercy, monster!

"I think you've got it backwards, grave robber," Angus growls as he levels his lance. Lamorak also remembers the man and charges eagerly toward the Bishop, resenting the man's use of ghostly Pokemon. The Rampardos easily vaults the river in his headlong rush toward the servant of Jamba, with heads of lance and rock brought to bear.
Lamorak's Movement Capabilities allow him to easily jump over the river as part of his charge.
Due to Rock Head, deals an additional [roll0] damage to Skull.
Also, Mold Breaker ignores any of Skull's defensive abilities

Lamorak uses Take Down
AC 4: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Normal Physical Damage
Free Trip (Combat): [roll3]

Angus uses Pierce!
AC 3: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5] Normal Physical Damage
If Skull somehow has Damage Reduction, he takes an additional 10 damage.
If Angus hits, he will spend 1 AP as a Swift Action to activate Roughneck and cause Skull to lose 1 CS in Defense.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus grimaces as Pix crumples under the birds' assault. It had been stupid to assume that Kirk wouldn't have some sort of counter for Pix, especially after the damage the Surskit had caused in their last battle. Quicksilver showing up was a small blessing, but against a Fire-Type specialist the Weavile would be of limited use. Still, if he took down Kirk then the Sculptures might swing the tide against the other duo...

One battle at a time though. Marcus quickly recalls Pix, before hesitating for a moment. He needed to get behind that tree, and out of the line of fire. Thus far, none of his Pokemon had stayed conscious long enough to make that possible. Fortunately, he had at least one Pokemon that should be able to do it.

Comiter, you're up! Marcus says, leering at the Talonflame. Rolling Thunder! he adds a moment later. The Marowak's club that seemed to reflect every color of the rainbow glowed bright yellow, before flying through the air at the Talonflame, the sound of thunder rolling across the battlefield.

Pix takes 114 damage. KO'd, and 3 Injuries

Marcus
Shift: Release Comiter at L11
Swift: Bind Pinpoint Strike on Comiter

Comiter
Activate Rainbow Club with Bonemerang as Move A and Thunder Punch as Move B! Electric, Physical
AC 2: [roll0], Paralyze 16+, Critical 19+
AC 2: [roll1], Paralyze 16+, Critical 19+
Damage (One Hit): [roll2] - Subtract 5 because I'm dumb, so 41
Damage (Two Hit): [roll3] - Subtract 5 because I'm dumb, so 41
Critical (One Hit): [roll4]
Critical (Two Hit): [roll5]


The bone collided with Kirk's flaming bird. While the electric strike didn't bring the bird crashing down, you could tell that the blow had very nearly caused a significant injury. Casting its eyes downwards, it dive bombed Comiter, it's beak striking the Marowak's crown.

Meanwhile, Kirk continued to, much like you, orchestrate the battle from behind the scenes.

Aerial Ace hits, but crits are impossible so let's skip to damage
[roll0]

[CosmicOccurence]

Skull's voice sends a chill down Angus's spine. A slight bit of fright, but that is overshadowed by anger. Anger for deceiving him and trying to trap him and his sister. You don't deserve mercy, monster!

"I think you've got it backwards, grave robber," Angus growls as he levels his lance. Lamorak also remembers the man and charges eagerly toward the Bishop, resenting the man's use of ghostly Pokemon. The Rampardos easily vaults the river in his headlong rush toward the servant of Jamba, with heads of lance and rock brought to bear.
Lamorak's Movement Capabilities allow him to easily jump over the river as part of his charge.
Due to Rock Head, deals an additional [roll0] damage to Skull.
Also, Mold Breaker ignores any of Skull's defensive abilities

Lamorak uses Take Down
AC 4: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Normal Physical Damage
Free Trip (Combat): [roll3]

Angus uses Pierce!
AC 3: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5] Normal Physical Damage
If Skull somehow has Damage Reduction, he takes an additional 10 damage.
If Angus hits, he will spend 1 AP as a Swift Action to activate Roughneck and cause Skull to lose 1 CS in Defense.

Your weapons easily crashed into Skull who, upon impact, wavered like an illusion and turned into a hairy pokemon that you recognized immediately to be of the same species as Jean's Veil. But this pokemon was obviously less lustrous, less majestic, less powerful than Jean's cryptid. It snarled as it was trapped under the two of you, and you noticed the collar had a small piece of technology that emitted the sound of Skull's voice mocking you.

It wriggled out from underneath Lamorak's massive feet and, claws gleaming with darke energy, took a leaping swipe at the two of you. However, it was clear that the damage it had taken was significant, and some of its bones had been broken in the attack.






Zoroark shifts to stand (this provokes attacks of opportunity from both you and Lamrock.

Zoroark uses Night Slash!, this targets both of you
This move crits on 18+ [roll0], AC 2
[roll1] Physical Dark Damage
on crit an additional [roll2].

[Jacior]

Dominic was almost about to turn the pair down but shrugged when Katie accepted. "I thought you were Glass? Did they just title you the name of your pokemon? Seems... kinda lame. Like naming me Arlo, or Deadshot." He flipped a pair of pokeballs in his hand before deciding on one and releasing the terrifying Deadshot. "Might as well if Katie is going to." Deadshot bristled, staring at Glass. He hadn't gotten used last time they fought.

Deadshot Speed: 30
Dominic Speed: 10

[Prehysterical]

Angus curses. He should have known better; Skull was too much of a coward to be so bold. It hadn't even been that clever of a trap.

With that in mind, Angus wants to end this skirmish as soon as possible. The scratch he suffers from the Zoroark is minor, but Lamorak's bulk takes more of it. A brutal headbutt from Lamorak and a swing of the butt end of Angus's lance knock the Dark type out cold. He has his mount move slightly to make himself less of an easy for the skulk.

"You can never do the dirty work yourself, can you," Angus mocks as Lamorak whips his head around to find a new target.
Angus uses Iron Defense to raise his Defense stat by 2 CS.

Perception check for Lamorak: [roll0]

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic was almost about to turn the pair down but shrugged when Katie accepted. "I thought you were Glass? Did they just title you the name of your pokemon? Seems... kinda lame. Like naming me Arlo, or Deadshot." He flipped a pair of pokeballs in his hand before deciding on one and releasing the terrifying Deadshot. "Might as well if Katie is going to." Deadshot bristled, staring at Glass. He hadn't gotten used last time they fought.

Deadshot Speed: 30
Dominic Speed: 10

At your comment, Glass's face turned bright red. I'm the only one named ... I was speaking in the third ... this isn't ... UGH nevermind. She pulled out a Pokeball, obviously frustrated, and released a Mr. Mime, whose fingers immediately began the intricate dance that they seemed unable to stop.


both are at speed 20, the map is up!

[CosmicOccurence]

Angus curses. He should have known better; Skull was too much of a coward to be so bold. It hadn't even been that clever of a trap.

With that in mind, Angus wants to end this skirmish as soon as possible. The scratch he suffers from the Zoroark is minor, but Lamorak's bulk takes more of it. A brutal headbutt from Lamorak and a swing of the butt end of Angus's lance knock the Dark type out cold. He has his mount move slightly to make himself less of an easy for the skulk.

"You can never do the dirty work yourself, can you," Angus mocks as Lamorak whips his head around to find a new target.
Angus uses Iron Defense to raise his Defense stat by 2 CS.

Perception check for Lamorak: [roll0]

The speaker on the Zoroark's collar crackled with Skull's laugh, but he chose not to respond with words. As Lamorak tossed his head around, he seemed to become quite interested in the area behind the trees far to your left. Before you could investigate however, the river bulged. A blue shape, almost like a balloon, burst from the stream.

You recognized the creature as a Jellicent, one of the few ghost type pokemon unable to turn its body incorporeal. However, it's water typing would make for a tough fight against Lamorak.


You identify that he's somewhere behind the tree at J4, but it's blocking your view.

Jellicent's speed is 4

[Arcran]

Marcus lets out a sigh of relief as Comiter takes the blow without barely a flinch, before glancing back at his trainer for further orders.

Thunderpunch! Marcus shouts, before sprinting behind the nearest tree himself. Comiter's bone instantly became coated in waves of crackling electricity, before swinging it into the bird once again.

Marcus
Shift: Move to G13
Swift: Brutal Training on Comiter

Comiter
Use Thunderpunch!
AC 2: [roll0], Paralyze 15+, Critical 17+
Damage: [roll1], -5, so 44. Need to try to remember my Stratagems...

Comiter takes one Tick of damage.

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Deadshot - Health: 117/117; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries:0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +0 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 0

Dominic shrugs and grins at the display. "I used to be scared of you, you know. I had nightmares for like two weeks. This seems... kinda pathetic now." He sighs, shaking his head. "Blast it with poison sting, Deadshot. Let's grab some more rings." The cacnea sweeps its arm around, throwing the almost fuzzy looking needles with a deadly force.

Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired and Focused Orders: +1 to Evasion and Accuracy, +2 to Save Checks and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: Tag Glass(?) - The Mr. Mime

Deadshot
Standard: Use Poison Sting

Poison Sting
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Poison (DB 2: 1d6+3, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poison Sting Poisons on 17+

Shift: None

Swift: None

Free: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits, +1 from Feint Attack being Super Effective

[Prehysterical]

Fortunately, Angus is just fast enough to outmaneuver the Ghost type and send Lamorak surging forward in the direction the Pokemon had indicated. Coming around the tree, they came almost nose-to-nose with Skull. Then it became much more literal when Lamorak bashed his bony head and Angus thrust with his lance.
Rock Head: an additional [roll0]
Mold Breaker: No defensive abilities against Lamorak

Lamorak uses Take Down
AC 4: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Normal Physical Damage
Free Trip Attempt: [roll3]

Angus uses Pierce!
AC 3: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
If Skull has Damage Reduction, he takes an additional 10 damage.
Angus spends 1 AP to active Roughneck if he hits. Skull loses one CS in Defense.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus lets out a sigh of relief as Comiter takes the blow without barely a flinch, before glancing back at his trainer for further orders.

Thunderpunch! Marcus shouts, before sprinting behind the nearest tree himself. Comiter's bone instantly became coated in waves of crackling electricity, before swinging it into the bird once again.

Marcus
Shift: Move to G13
Swift: Brutal Training on Comiter

Comiter
Use Thunderpunch!
AC 2: [roll0], Paralyze 15+, Critical 17+
Damage: [roll1], -5, so 44. Need to try to remember my Stratagems...

Comiter takes one Tick of damage.

The crackling bone brought the Talonflame to the edge of fainting, but it managed to remain just barely alive. Kirk grunted in frustration and frantically shouted some orders. Twirling in a loop, the Talonflame attempted to rake its claws across Comiter's eyes to try and give it an opportunity to safely retreat.

The maneuver was successful, and the Talonflame executed its move to intercept the beam of red light emanating from Kirk. In its place hung a Pokémon that you'd never seen in person before but knew well. It was an animated floating stove, with power cords whipping angrily behind it. Somehow the rigid metal of the door seemed to be smiling as the door-mouth opened and closed with only slight squeaks.


U Turn AC 2 [roll0]
Bug Physical [roll1]

On a hit, Talonflame switches out for a Rotom, but I'll edit that all in.

Intense sun disappears after you take your turn

For next turn, Rotom has speed 9
Kirk takes a standard action as normal.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Deadshot - Health: 117/117; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries:0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +0 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 0

Dominic shrugs and grins at the display. "I used to be scared of you, you know. I had nightmares for like two weeks. This seems... kinda pathetic now." He sighs, shaking his head. "Blast it with poison sting, Deadshot. Let's grab some more rings." The cacnea sweeps its arm around, throwing the almost fuzzy looking needles with a deadly force.

Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired and Focused Orders: +1 to Evasion and Accuracy, +2 to Save Checks and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: Tag Glass(?) - The Mr. Mime

Deadshot
Standard: Use Poison Sting

Poison Sting
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Poison (DB 2: 1d6+3, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poison Sting Poisons on 17+

Shift: None

Swift: None

Free: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits, +1 from Feint Attack being Super Effective


To clear up any ooc confusion, glass was simply speaking in the third person the first time

As the moment Deadshot released its shot, the Mr. Mime's fingers moved at a furious pace. You began to see small distortions in the air as the poisoned dart slams into an invisible wall. As it continues to twirl its fingers in seemingly impossible ways, the walls rocket towards you as the Mime advances, and you're quickly surrounded by an invisible house, unable move without first breaking the barriers.

Glass flicks her hand, and a Beheeyem appears behind a tree, in a position to circle around the battle and flank you.


Glass activates Sleight and Encore Performance to have Mime use BArrier!

Mime uses Barrier! Mime uses Wallmaster
Glass activates Shell GAme!

On its normal turn, Mime shifts forwards

Barrier sections are noted as pink lines. One barrier section is destroyed by poison sting before it reaches the mime.

With her standard action, Glass releases a Beheeyem.

Each Barrier segment is 2
meters tall, 1 meter wide, and 2 centimeters thick. Each
segment has 20 Hit Points, 15 Damage Reduction, and
takes damage as if it was Psychic Typed.

[CosmicOccurence]

Fortunately, Angus is just fast enough to outmaneuver the Ghost type and send Lamorak surging forward in the direction the Pokemon had indicated. Coming around the tree, they came almost nose-to-nose with Skull. Then it became much more literal when Lamorak bashed his bony head and Angus thrust with his lance.
Rock Head: an additional [roll0]
Mold Breaker: No defensive abilities against Lamorak

Lamorak uses Take Down
AC 4: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Normal Physical Damage
Free Trip Attempt: [roll3]

Angus uses Pierce!
AC 3: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
If Skull has Damage Reduction, he takes an additional 10 damage.
Angus spends 1 AP to active Roughneck if he hits. Skull loses one CS in Defense.

Despite looking like he would crumple if a piece of paper hit him, the crashing blow failed to take Skull to the brink of unconsciousness. However, Lamrock was able to easily topple the man, sending him to the ground.

And while the Jellicent was too far away to be of any assistance, another ghost type, this one previously invisible, appeared in the far reaches of the battle, flickering into reality without so much as a sound. While it seemed to far to be of any real help, it's eyes began glowing at the exact same moment that two prongs sprouted from the tree and sought out Lamrock, almost as if it were controlling the tree itself.

Meanwhile, Skull downed a potion, to restore some of his wounds.

Trevenant releases invisibility capability!

Trevenant attacks from a distance using its forest lord ability!
Horn Leech AC 2 [roll0]
[roll1] physical grass damage

[Arcran]

Fortunately for Comiter, his eyes were protected by a thick bony helmet and, once again, he manages to come out the other side from the attack with only minor injuries. Still, the Marowak was looking a little worse for wear between the combo of sun and the Talonflame's strikes.

When the next Pokemon appears, Marcus lets out a sigh of relief. This was a Pokemon Comiter should be able to handle, as long as the Pokemon couldn't knock out Comiter in a single attack which, knowing a Rotom's raw power, was very possible.

Comiter, put it down! Bonemerang! Marcus shouts, before Comiter takes a half step backwards and launches his Thick Club forward towards the Rotom's oven door.

Marcus
Unbind Pinpoint Strike.
Swift Action: Use Brutal Training on Comiter.

Comiter
Comiter uses Bonemerang!
AC 1: [roll0], Critical 18+
AC 2: [roll1], Critical 18+
One Hit: [roll2]
Two Hit: [roll3]
One Crit: [roll4]
Two Crit: [roll5]

[CosmicOccurence]

Fortunately for Comiter, his eyes were protected by a thick bony helmet and, once again, he manages to come out the other side from the attack with only minor injuries. Still, the Marowak was looking a little worse for wear between the combo of sun and the Talonflame's strikes.

When the next Pokemon appears, Marcus lets out a sigh of relief. This was a Pokemon Comiter should be able to handle, as long as the Pokemon couldn't knock out Comiter in a single attack which, knowing a Rotom's raw power, was very possible.

Comiter, put it down! Bonemerang! Marcus shouts, before Comiter takes a half step backwards and launches his Thick Club forward towards the Rotom's oven door.

Marcus
Unbind Pinpoint Strike.
Swift Action: Use Brutal Training on Comiter.

Comiter
Comiter uses Bonemerang!
AC 1: [roll0], Critical 18+
AC 2: [roll1], Critical 18+
One Hit: [roll2]
Two Hit: [roll3]
One Crit: [roll4]
Two Crit: [roll5]


Kirk frowns as the artificial sun in the sky and the bone that slammed into the floating stove. The front of the Rotom was dented badly, but the poltergeist spun away from the second attack. It used its movement to zoom away and around the battlefield towards you, leaving a trail of flames in its wake that burned brightly.

As it arrived in front of you, its eyes glowed a bright green and a dazzling beam of energy flew at you. Your eyes glazed over as your thoughts immediately became muddled. The attack, confuse ray, was obviously meant to continue what the solar flare had set out to do: limit your ability to command effectively.


Rotom shifts! Kirk activates trailblazer to create fire hazards:

Your Pokémon sets the ground aflame and leaves
a Fire Hazard in each square it shifts through this round,
up to a maximum of 8 squares. Anyone who begins or
ends their turn on a Fire Hazard are Burned. Anyone
that passes through a Fire Hazard loses a Tick of Hit
Points. If a Ground, Rock, or Water-Type Move targets
a square (or a target in a square) with Fire Hazard in
them, the Fire Hazards are destroyed. All effects that
destroy Hazards extinguish Fire Hazards. Trail Blazer
may only be used once per Scene.

Rotom uses Confuse Ray on Marcus! It cannot Miss! Marcus is Confused!

[Arcran]

Marcus winces as the jolt of energy connects with him, but remains conscious regardless. While his mind was clouded, Marcus still had the presence of mind to give the orders he needed to. He had time to send out another Pokemon, the sun was gone, and the Rotom had just wasted its turn. The tide of the battle was changing.

With a smirk, Marcus flings out a Pokeball, and Gelver appears in a flash.

Comiter, Gelver, finish off the Rotom! Bone Club and Aqua Shock! Marcus shouts, wincing at the shout as he feel the wound on his chest. He just needed to push the battle towards Kirk, and the tide would finally change.

Marcus' two Pokemon respond in kind, with Gelver firing a jet of water to leave the creature open before vanishing into the grass as Comiter brings his heavy club down on the Pokemon.

Marcus
Shift: Release Gelver to L13.
Standard: Focused Command, and spend 1 AP to remove the damage penalty. He'll pair it up with Focused Training.

Gelver:
Shift: Blender for the extra +2/+4 melee/ranged Evasion.
Standard: Aqua Shock! Trigger Protean to go pure Water.
AC 2: [roll0], Critical 19+, Confuse 16+, Target is Vulnerable.
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter
Shift: Move to I12.
Standard: Use Bone Club!
AC 5: [roll3], Critical 19+, Flinch 17+
Damage: [roll4]
Critical: [roll5]

[Prehysterical]

Things were rapidly spiraling out of control as yet another Pokemon appeared and gave Lamorak a harsh lash. They were going to need help before they were overwhelmed.

Reaching quickly for his belt, Angus cracked open a Worldseed. "Gauntlet!" The giant golem appeared, blocking them off from the tree monster's line of sight.

Glaring at the man prone on the ground, Angus stabbed again while Lamorak showed how little he appreciated the ambush.
Angus uses his Shift Action to release Gauntlet. If Lamorak is targeted again, Gauntlet will be using Bodyguard.

Lamorak uses Headbutt
AC 2: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] Normal Physical Damage
Flinches Skull on 15+

Angus uses Flail
AC 3: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3] Normal Physical Damage

Angus activates Fortress as a Free Action if he hits Skull.
Skull takes -5 AC to hit on anyone but Angus.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus winces as the jolt of energy connects with him, but remains conscious regardless. While his mind was clouded, Marcus still had the presence of mind to give the orders he needed to. He had time to send out another Pokemon, the sun was gone, and the Rotom had just wasted its turn. The tide of the battle was changing.

With a smirk, Marcus flings out a Pokeball, and Gelver appears in a flash.

Comiter, Gelver, finish off the Rotom! Bone Club and Aqua Shock! Marcus shouts, wincing at the shout as he feel the wound on his chest. He just needed to push the battle towards Kirk, and the tide would finally change.

Marcus' two Pokemon respond in kind, with Gelver firing a jet of water to leave the creature open before vanishing into the grass as Comiter brings his heavy club down on the Pokemon.

Marcus
Shift: Release Gelver to L13.
Standard: Focused Command, and spend 1 AP to remove the damage penalty. He'll pair it up with Focused Training.

Gelver:
Shift: Blender for the extra +2/+4 melee/ranged Evasion.
Standard: Aqua Shock! Trigger Protean to go pure Water.
AC 2: [roll0], Critical 19+, Confuse 16+, Target is Vulnerable.
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter
Shift: Move to I12.
Standard: Use Bone Club!
AC 5: [roll3], Critical 19+, Flinch 17+
Damage: [roll4]
Critical: [roll5]


The Rotom fell with a crashing sound, and Kirk, for the first time, seemed somewhat worried. Still, he pressed the pokeball at his side and released a Volcorona onto the field alongside a Houndoom. He began swiftly issuing commands to both of them while the fire spread, and through the flames, you could vaguely tell that they were psyching themselves up for battle, buffing their combat capabilities.


Houndoom uses Nasty Plot
Volcorona uses Quiver Dance

[CosmicOccurence]

Things were rapidly spiraling out of control as yet another Pokemon appeared and gave Lamorak a harsh lash. They were going to need help before they were overwhelmed.

Reaching quickly for his belt, Angus cracked open a Worldseed. "Gauntlet!" The giant golem appeared, blocking them off from the tree monster's line of sight.

Glaring at the man prone on the ground, Angus stabbed again while Lamorak showed how little he appreciated the ambush.
Angus uses his Shift Action to release Gauntlet. If Lamorak is targeted again, Gauntlet will be using Bodyguard.

Lamorak uses Headbutt
AC 2: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] Normal Physical Damage
Flinches Skull on 15+

Angus uses Flail
AC 3: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3] Normal Physical Damage

Angus activates Fortress as a Free Action if he hits Skull.
Skull takes -5 AC to hit on anyone but Angus.

Skull grinned as he squirmed between the two attacks, though he remained on the ground. I wouldn't be so eager to ignore my ghosties, he cackled. They're not a pushover.

This time, a phantom claw extended from the tree and slashed a long attack that was meant to pass through both of you, despite the ghostly tree's distance from you.


Shadow Claw attack via the Forest Lord Ability!
[roll0]AC 2, crit 18+
[roll1], another [roll2] on a crit

[Arcran]

Marcus sees the twin flashes of light and frowns slightly, before he sees how close the two are together. That almost made things easy.

Comiter! Rock Slide! Gelver, set up the Houndoom! Marcus shouts, watching as Comiter improvises the Move they'd studied together, and Gelver prepares a powerful blast of water to set the Volcarona off-balance.

Marcus uses Focused Command + Focused Training! Spending 2 AP to remove all limits.
Trigger Recreation of Cinematic Analysis to allow Comiter to use Rock Slide!

Gelver
Shift: Move to L7
Standard: Use Aqua Shock on Houndoom!
AC 2: [roll0], Critical 19+, Confuse 16+, going to Protean to pure Water, Houndoom is Vulnerable
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter
Shift: Move to I8, running around the fire.
Standard: Use Rock Slide!
AC 4: [roll3] Crit 19+, Flinch 16+ (Using AP to boost)
Damage: [roll4]
Critical: [roll5]

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Deadshot - Health: 117/117; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries:0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +1 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 2

Dominic grins at the sudden barrier and reels back his fist, taking a might- oh wait no, he was slipping on the slightly still-wet ground and smashing his face into the wall. "Oh arceus! I think I broke my nose." He reaches up and tenderly rubs it before realizing it's not broken, or even really bleeding. "I really don't know why I even bother sometimes. Every time. Like the universe is against me. Deadshot, just... break the stupid wall." The cacturne sweeps it's hand into the barrier, smashing it without any real sort of effort, looking much cooler than Dominic.

Dominic
Standard: Failing a Struggle Attack

Shift: None

Swift: Inspired Orders: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks

Deadshot
Standard: Use Feint Attack

Feint Attack
Attack vs Can't Miss: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] +5 from Exploit, Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Cannot Miss

Shift: None

Swift: None

Free: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits, +1 from Feint Attack being Super Effective

[Prehysterical]

Angus was able to dodge the swipe easily, but poor Lamorak was so focused on hurting Skull that the rockhead was nearly struck. Luckily, Gauntlet was ready and bodily plucked both out of harm's way. The dark claws barely scratch the golem's metallic hide.

"Neither are we, necromancer," Gauntlet boomed before smiting the man with his fist.

Meanwhile, not to be put off, Lamorak whirled around the other side of the tree and pounced on Skull, Angus's lance poised.
Angus's team positions have been updated. Skull is now Flanked.

Gauntlet uses Bodyguard as a Free Action, then uses Shadow Punch. It cannot miss.
Damage: [roll0] Orichalcum Physical Damage

Lamorak uses Take Down
AC 4: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Normal Physical Damage
Another Trip Attempt, just in case Skull tries to get up: [roll3]

Angus uses Pierce!
AC 3: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
Deals an additional 10 Damage if Skull has Damage Reduction
Angus activates Guardian's Punishment as a Swift Action. Skull takes an additional 29 damage and suffers a -6 penalty to Damage rolls.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus sees the twin flashes of light and frowns slightly, before he sees how close the two are together. That almost made things easy.

Comiter! Rock Slide! Gelver, set up the Houndoom! Marcus shouts, watching as Comiter improvises the Move they'd studied together, and Gelver prepares a powerful blast of water to set the Volcarona off-balance.

Marcus uses Focused Command + Focused Training! Spending 2 AP to remove all limits.
Trigger Recreation of Cinematic Analysis to allow Comiter to use Rock Slide!

Gelver
Shift: Move to L7
Standard: Use Aqua Shock on Houndoom!
AC 2: [roll0], Critical 19+, Confuse 16+, going to Protean to pure Water, Houndoom is Vulnerable
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter
Shift: Move to I8, running around the fire.
Standard: Use Rock Slide!
AC 4: [roll3] Crit 19+, Flinch 16+ (Using AP to boost)
Damage: [roll4]
Critical: [roll5]


As was usual, Gelver hit like a truck, sending the Houndoom down before he even had a chance to let lose one of the undoubtedly powerful fire attacks it had at its disposal. Unfortunately, the Volcorona slid through the improvised attack and twirled through the air on its strange leaves before descending on Gelver and attempting to suck the life out of him via a few hastily spat seeds.

Meanwhile, from underneath the ground sprung another strange Pokémon from the Alola region, a hard shelled pokemon that you vaguely recognized as a Turtonator. It swung a tail at Gelver, lashing out violently in an attempt to faint it.


Giga Drain vs Gelver [roll0] AC 2
on hit [roll1]

Dragon Tail vs Comiter [roll2] ac 3
[roll3] dragon physical.
If he isn't fainted, Comiter is pushed 6-weight class meters away from the Turtonator and through the flames.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Deadshot - Health: 117/117; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries:0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +1 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 2

Dominic grins at the sudden barrier and reels back his fist, taking a might- oh wait no, he was slipping on the slightly still-wet ground and smashing his face into the wall. "Oh arceus! I think I broke my nose." He reaches up and tenderly rubs it before realizing it's not broken, or even really bleeding. "I really don't know why I even bother sometimes. Every time. Like the universe is against me. Deadshot, just... break the stupid wall." The cacturne sweeps it's hand into the barrier, smashing it without any real sort of effort, looking much cooler than Dominic.

Dominic
Standard: Failing a Struggle Attack

Shift: None

Swift: Inspired Orders: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks

Deadshot
Standard: Use Feint Attack

Feint Attack
Attack vs Can't Miss: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] +5 from Exploit, Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Cannot Miss

Shift: None

Swift: None

Free: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits, +1 from Feint Attack being Super Effective


The Mime didn't hesitate to send a wave of dizzying lights towards the two of you as soon as the wall went down. However, the attack seemed to originate from some sort of laser strapped to its hands, despite seeming very much like the move dazzling gleam. Deadshot received the normal blow, but as it passed through the barrier in front of you, the light twisted itself into a more concentrated, laser-like form.

Meanwhile, Glass simply cackled at your ineptitude and snapped her fingers, the walls rearranging themselves into another configuration just as frustrating as the last.


Dazzling gleam vs both you and Deadshot.

[roll0]
[roll1] special fairy damage,
Since the attack passed through the barrier, you take an additional [roll2]

It disengages backwards

Glass activates Shell Game! The barriers move!

[CosmicOccurence]

Angus was able to dodge the swipe easily, but poor Lamorak was so focused on hurting Skull that the rockhead was nearly struck. Luckily, Gauntlet was ready and bodily plucked both out of harm's way. The dark claws barely scratch the golem's metallic hide.

"Neither are we, necromancer," Gauntlet boomed before smiting the man with his fist.

Meanwhile, not to be put off, Lamorak whirled around the other side of the tree and pounced on Skull, Angus's lance poised.
Angus's team positions have been updated. Skull is now Flanked.

Gauntlet uses Bodyguard as a Free Action, then uses Shadow Punch. It cannot miss.
Damage: [roll0] Orichalcum Physical Damage

Lamorak uses Take Down
AC 4: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Normal Physical Damage
Another Trip Attempt, just in case Skull tries to get up: [roll3]

Angus uses Pierce!
AC 3: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
Deals an additional 10 Damage if Skull has Damage Reduction
Angus activates Guardian's Punishment as a Swift Action. Skull takes an additional 29 damage and suffers a -6 penalty to Damage rolls.

The three blows combined were more than enough to knock the smug man unconscious. In fact, you thought for a moment the three mighty blows had killed the man, but then you noticed his chest rising and falling softly underneath his mangled body.

However, the Jellicent seemed even more angered by the occurrence and floated towards your group, spitting out a blast of bubbles at Lamrock that flew like bullets.


Bubblebeam vs Lamrock
[roll0] sp def lowers on 18+
[roll1]

[Arcran]

As was usual, Gelver hit like a truck, sending the Houndoom down before he even had a chance to let lose one of the undoubtedly powerful fire attacks it had at its disposal. Unfortunately, the Volcorona slid through the improvised attack and twirled through the air on its strange leaves before descending on Gelver and attempting to suck the life out of him via a few hastily spat seeds.

Meanwhile, from underneath the ground sprung another strange Pokémon from the Alola region, a hard shelled pokemon that you vaguely recognized as a Turtonator. It swung a tail at Gelver, lashing out violently in an attempt to faint it.


Giga Drain vs Gelver [roll0] AC 2
on hit [roll1]

Dragon Tail vs Comiter [roll2] ac 3
[roll3] dragon physical.
If he isn't fainted, Comiter is pushed 6-weight class meters away from the Turtonator and through the flames.


The Giga Drain connects solidly with Gelver, and the frog staggers a step backwards, nearly unconscious. Still, Gelver just barely manages to hold onto consciousness, although the Pokemon was clearly not moving as well as normal. Comiter, on the other hand, hardly flinches from the attack, instead grinning widely as the Turtonator barely manages to dent his defenses, although being flung backwards through the flames causes some damage.

Marcus surveys the battlefield for a moment, trying to piece together a plan. There was a nonzero chance that the Turtonator would simply explode when this ended, which Marcus would rather avoid. However, he could easily estimate the size of an explosion and, if possible, keep his Pokemon completely clear of it. All he had to do was take down that Volcarona so the Turtonator would be forced to choose a target.

Focus fire on the Volcarona! Gelver, make some space and then Aqua Shock! Comiter, finish it off with a Bonemerang! Marcus shouts, watching as Gelver sprints into the grass and sets up Comiter for a mighty toss of his bone.

Spend 2 more AP for full control with Focused Command.
Brutal Training.

Gelver Shifts to P7. This likely provokes an AoO.
Gelver uses Aqua Shock!
AC 2: [roll0], Confuses on 15+, Critical 18+
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter uses Bonemerang!
AC 2: [roll3], Critical 18+
AC 2: [roll4], Critical 18+
One Hit: [roll5]
Two Hit: [roll6]
One Crit: [roll7]
Two Crit: [roll8]

[CosmicOccurence]

The Giga Drain connects solidly with Gelver, and the frog staggers a step backwards, nearly unconscious. Still, Gelver just barely manages to hold onto consciousness, although the Pokemon was clearly not moving as well as normal. Comiter, on the other hand, hardly flinches from the attack, instead grinning widely as the Turtonator barely manages to dent his defenses, although being flung backwards through the flames causes some damage.

Marcus surveys the battlefield for a moment, trying to piece together a plan. There was a nonzero chance that the Turtonator would simply explode when this ended, which Marcus would rather avoid. However, he could easily estimate the size of an explosion and, if possible, keep his Pokemon completely clear of it. All he had to do was take down that Volcarona so the Turtonator would be forced to choose a target.

Focus fire on the Volcarona! Gelver, make some space and then Aqua Shock! Comiter, finish it off with a Bonemerang! Marcus shouts, watching as Gelver sprints into the grass and sets up Comiter for a mighty toss of his bone.

Spend 2 more AP for full control with Focused Command.
Brutal Training.

Gelver Shifts to P7. This likely provokes an AoO.
Gelver uses Aqua Shock!
AC 2: [roll0], Confuses on 15+, Critical 18+
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter uses Bonemerang!
AC 2: [roll3], Critical 18+
AC 2: [roll4], Critical 18+
One Hit: [roll5]
Two Hit: [roll6]
One Crit: [roll7]
Two Crit: [roll8]

The two attacks slammed into the Volcorona. And while the attacks didn't fell it, the Pokémon was clearly struggling with the battle. It lashed out wildly at Gelver as he raced into the bushes before turning his attention to Comiter. It sent out a fierce wave of sonic energy while the Turtonator sent out a blast of fire into the bushes that Gelver was hiding in, hoping a spreading fire would flush Gelver out of the undergrowth.


Apologies for slow posting Arc, After this car stuff sorts itself out (fingers crossed) please start bugging me to post more option.

AOO vs Gelver [roll0] AC 4
[roll1] physical normal

Bug Buzz vs Comiter AC 2 [roll2]
[roll3]
Yes I realize the spatk went up. Turns out I'd forgotten to put in the Quiver Dance boosts in the spreadsheet before -_-

Turtonator uses firestarter to set some fire hazards. These will spread a bit each turn.

[Prehysterical]

The three blows combined were more than enough to knock the smug man unconscious. In fact, you thought for a moment the three mighty blows had killed the man, but then you noticed his chest rising and falling softly underneath his mangled body.

However, the Jellicent seemed even more angered by the occurrence and floated towards your group, spitting out a blast of bubbles at Lamrock that flew like bullets.


Bubblebeam vs Lamrock
[roll0] sp def lowers on 18+
[roll1]

Fortunately for Lamorak, the creature's anger foiled its aim and the bubbles battered the side of the tree. Angus knew that Lamorak couldn't take another hit like that, so he dismounted to put himself between his mount and the Jellicent. In a voice loud enough for the Trevanent to hear as well, Angus shouted, "Your master is defeated, but not dead! If you stop attacking now, I will let him live! Cease!"

[CosmicOccurence]

Fortunately for Lamorak, the creature's anger foiled its aim and the bubbles battered the side of the tree. Angus knew that Lamorak couldn't take another hit like that, so he dismounted to put himself between his mount and the Jellicent. In a voice loud enough for the Trevanent to hear as well, Angus shouted, "Your master is defeated, but not dead! If you stop attacking now, I will let him live! Cease!"

Both the Jellicent and the Trevenant paused at your roar. The glanced carefully at you, clearly trying to assess the guinenity of your threat to end their master. When one faded into a tree and another soak underneath the surface of the river, it became clear you'd won.

Skull remained on the ground, moving only very little and bleeding rather profusely.

[Prehysterical]

After what felt like ages, his attackers finally backed off. Angus let out a sigh of relief and leaned on the shaft of his lance. One hand reached out to pat Lamorak approvingly on the shoulder. "Well fought, Lamorak, but you're in no shape for another engagement. Take a rest; you've earned it." The rockhead growled at first at the idea of going back into the Worldseed, but eventually nodded his tired head.

With the Rampardos back in his holder, Angus turned to look at Gauntlet. "Same to you, old friend. It's always good to know that you have our backs."

He finally looked down at the sprawled Skull, who was looking rather pathetic at the moment. This man had caused him so much trouble. It was tempting... very tempting... to smash his skull in with the hammer or leave and let Arceus pass His own judgment. Angus had given his word, however, and leaving Skull to bleed out would be the same as directly killing him.

Grumbling under his breath, Angus knelt down and pulled out some of his bandaging to address the worst of the bleeding. "If you can hear me, Skull, don't ever come after me or my sister again. Next time, I won't hesitate..." Once the bandages were properly applied, Angus took away the man's earrings. He now had more than enough to go straight up to the ship, guaranteed passage.

Come to think of it... As long as he completed the ring at any time, it was guaranteed passage. Varro wanted them to fall on each other like rabid animals in a fit of rampant backstabbing. Perhaps there was someone out there that could use the other half? Having an ally going in would not be a bad idea. But how do I judge who is worthy...?

"I need to put you back, Gauntlet. We don't want to draw any more attention than we have to, and a Guardian is sure to make a fuss to those with the Sight to see." Gauntlet nodded his understanding before being returned to his Worldseed. Angus released Gladia from her own capsule and the Aegislash looked eagerly at the young knight. "There might be fighting still ahead of us. Ready, girl?" He laughed as she gave him two thumbs-up with her tassels and armed himself with blade and shield.

Angus continued through the small copse of trees, trying to get a sense of the widespread melee around.

[Arcran]

Gelver is far too quick and manages to duck under the Volcarona's clumsy attack with little effort. An instant later, Comiter manages to block the Volcarona's sonic assault entirely with a well-timed swing of his club.

Gelver, finish off the Volcarona! Comiter, put a dent in that turtle's shell! Marcus shouts. Gelver leaps out of the grass and fires off a blast of water at the giant floating moth, while Comiter sprints forward before leaping into the air, bringing his glittering club down in a powerful arc on the Pokemon's head.

Marcus uses Focused Command/Training. No AP this round.

Gelver
Shift to P12!
Gelver uses Aqua Shock!
AC 2: [roll0], Critical 19+, Confuse 16+, Target is Vulnerable
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter
If Gelver KOs, Shift to J7 while moving around Fire Hazard. Targetting Turtonator this round.
If not, Shift to L11 and target Volcarona.

Comiter uses Bone Club!
AC 5: [roll3], Critical 19+, Flinch 17+
Damage: [roll4]
Critical: [roll5]

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 32/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 2
Deadshot - Health: 24/117 (93) ; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 6

Dominic and Deadshot both wither under the brutal blow, but keep standing. Leaving the back open was a mistake though. Both Trainer and Pokemon bolted out, Dominic to hide and Deadshot to close the gap. "Deadshot, break him apart! Poison Sting!" The cacturne fired a potent barrage of needles into mr. mime's face before Dominic called it out again. "Hit it again! Last time we couldn't do anything but not this time!" The stream of needles only got more intense, a pressure cannon of violent intent.

Dominic
Standard: Use Critical Moment: The bonuses from your Pokemon’s [Training] are tripled until the end of your next turn. (+2 Accuracy and Evasion, +4 to Skill and Save Checks)

Shift: Move to H11

Swift: Focused Orders: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks

Deadshot
Standard: Use Poison Sting

Poison Sting
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+3 from Critical Momentum, +1 from Focused Orders, +3 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] +5 from Exploit, Physical Poison (DB 2: 1d6+3, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 17+

Shift: Move to J9

Swift: None

Dominic Free Action: Sieze the Moment
Use Poison Sting

Poison Sting
Attack vs AC 2: [roll3], (+3 from Critical Momentum, +1 from Focused Orders, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll4] +5 from Exploit, Physical Poison (DB 2: 1d6+3, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll5]
Special: Poisons on 17+

Special: If it doesn't hit, it deals damage as Smite. If it hits it's a crit. If it'd be a Crit, Deadshot regains 50% of his Max HP

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Poison Sting hits, +1 from Poison Sting being Super Effective

[CosmicOccurence]

After what felt like ages, his attackers finally backed off. Angus let out a sigh of relief and leaned on the shaft of his lance. One hand reached out to pat Lamorak approvingly on the shoulder. "Well fought, Lamorak, but you're in no shape for another engagement. Take a rest; you've earned it." The rockhead growled at first at the idea of going back into the Worldseed, but eventually nodded his tired head.

With the Rampardos back in his holder, Angus turned to look at Gauntlet. "Same to you, old friend. It's always good to know that you have our backs."

He finally looked down at the sprawled Skull, who was looking rather pathetic at the moment. This man had caused him so much trouble. It was tempting... very tempting... to smash his skull in with the hammer or leave and let Arceus pass His own judgment. Angus had given his word, however, and leaving Skull to bleed out would be the same as directly killing him.

Grumbling under his breath, Angus knelt down and pulled out some of his bandaging to address the worst of the bleeding. "If you can hear me, Skull, don't ever come after me or my sister again. Next time, I won't hesitate..." Once the bandages were properly applied, Angus took away the man's earrings. He now had more than enough to go straight up to the ship, guaranteed passage.

Come to think of it... As long as he completed the ring at any time, it was guaranteed passage. Varro wanted them to fall on each other like rabid animals in a fit of rampant backstabbing. Perhaps there was someone out there that could use the other half? Having an ally going in would not be a bad idea. But how do I judge who is worthy...?

"I need to put you back, Gauntlet. We don't want to draw any more attention than we have to, and a Guardian is sure to make a fuss to those with the Sight to see." Gauntlet nodded his understanding before being returned to his Worldseed. Angus released Gladia from her own capsule and the Aegislash looked eagerly at the young knight. "There might be fighting still ahead of us. Ready, girl?" He laughed as she gave him two thumbs-up with her tassels and armed himself with blade and shield.

Angus continued through the small copse of trees, trying to get a sense of the widespread melee around.

As you wove your way through the battlefield, you found precious few combatants left. Most were either on the ground fainted, clearly in despair from losing their ring, or vanishing in a flash of crimson light onto the Leviathan.

However, you eventually came on a fierce battle between two pairs of individuals. The further battle involved an athletic girl with the Poison sign above her head, while the other involved a man with shockingly blue hair with the Grass Sign and a giant flaming V across his chest.

When the girl the Grass Prime was fighting saw you, she rolled her eyes and spoke to you. Obviously Skull isn't capable of anything as usual. What, do I have to do all the work around here? He Elgyem floated between the two of you as she clearly prepared for a double battle.


Occult 10 to ID flaming V as Victini

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic - Health: 32/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 2
Deadshot - Health: 24/117 (93) ; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 6

Dominic and Deadshot both wither under the brutal blow, but keep standing. Leaving the back open was a mistake though. Both Trainer and Pokemon bolted out, Dominic to hide and Deadshot to close the gap. "Deadshot, break him apart! Poison Sting!" The cacturne fired a potent barrage of needles into mr. mime's face before Dominic called it out again. "Hit it again! Last time we couldn't do anything but not this time!" The stream of needles only got more intense, a pressure cannon of violent intent.

Dominic
Standard: Use Critical Moment: The bonuses from your Pokemon’s [Training] are tripled until the end of your next turn. (+2 Accuracy and Evasion, +4 to Skill and Save Checks)

Shift: Move to H11

Swift: Focused Orders: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks

Deadshot
Standard: Use Poison Sting

Poison Sting
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+3 from Critical Momentum, +1 from Focused Orders, +3 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] +5 from Exploit, Physical Poison (DB 2: 1d6+3, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 17+

Shift: Move to J9

Swift: None

Dominic Free Action: Sieze the Moment
Use Poison Sting

Poison Sting
Attack vs AC 2: [roll3], (+3 from Critical Momentum, +1 from Focused Orders, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll4] +5 from Exploit, Physical Poison (DB 2: 1d6+3, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll5]
Special: Poisons on 17+

Special: If it doesn't hit, it deals damage as Smite. If it hits it's a crit. If it'd be a Crit, Deadshot regains 50% of his Max HP

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Poison Sting hits, +1 from Poison Sting being Super Effective



Sadly, even the buildup of momentum that Deadshot had been building wasn't enough, as the Mime simply conjured a miniature barrier to deflect the attack. However, his second attack that sprayed out made it through the defensive capabilities of the mime and landed a solid hit against the Pokémon.

As Glass was gearing up for another attack, a figure clad in armor with a giant lance riding a rocklike pokemon that looked to be from a similar fossil-stock as your own rose over a ridge. The Ground symbol hung above his head along with three strange dots.

While you didn't recognize him, Glass obviously did. She rolled her eyes and spoke to him. Obviously Skull isn't capable of anything as usual. What, do I have to do all the work around here? He Elgyem floated between her and the figure as she focused on taking on two opponents at once.



DC 15 occult to id the three dots as Regigigas

Elegym shifts to be between Glass and the other battler.

[CosmicOccurence]

Gelver is far too quick and manages to duck under the Volcarona's clumsy attack with little effort. An instant later, Comiter manages to block the Volcarona's sonic assault entirely with a well-timed swing of his club.

Gelver, finish off the Volcarona! Comiter, put a dent in that turtle's shell! Marcus shouts. Gelver leaps out of the grass and fires off a blast of water at the giant floating moth, while Comiter sprints forward before leaping into the air, bringing his glittering club down in a powerful arc on the Pokemon's head.

Marcus uses Focused Command/Training. No AP this round.

Gelver
Shift to P12!
Gelver uses Aqua Shock!
AC 2: [roll0], Critical 19+, Confuse 16+, Target is Vulnerable
Damage: [roll1]
Critical: [roll2]

Comiter
If Gelver KOs, Shift to J7 while moving around Fire Hazard. Targetting Turtonator this round.
If not, Shift to L11 and target Volcarona.

Comiter uses Bone Club!
AC 5: [roll3], Critical 19+, Flinch 17+
Damage: [roll4]
Critical: [roll5]

As the Volcorona went down hard, Kirk seemed to finally come to terms with his loss. With only one Pokémon left against what he knew to be these two plus more on your belt, it simply wasn't in the cards.

Well Muk, he said. I thought I'd actually improved. Seems like all that studying hasn't done me much good.

He reached into his pocket and fished out his half of the ring. I suppose I'll just have to wait for the next workshop to come around then eh? And how's my brother doing? I don't hear from him enough.

[Arcran]

As the Volcorona went down hard, Kirk seemed to finally come to terms with his loss. With only one Pokémon left against what he knew to be these two plus more on your belt, it simply wasn't in the cards.

Well Muk, he said. I thought I'd actually improved. Seems like all that studying hasn't done me much good.

He reached into his pocket and fished out his half of the ring. I suppose I'll just have to wait for the next workshop to come around then eh? And how's my brother doing? I don't hear from him enough.

Marcus blinks as Kirk surrenders, momentarily confused. The battle was still quite close; Comiter and Gelver were barely conscious, and Arista was the last Pokemon he could truly use in this fight.

If it was Pokken you would have won Marcus says, walking closer to take the ring, his sweatshirt extending to cover his hands. Even in defeat he didn't quite trust Kirk; he seemed nice enough, but the workshop was a rather appealing goal. Marcus knew that he would be more than willing to lie for an advantage if it meant making it in.

Your brother is, well, whole again, Marcus says, not elaborating much beyond that. He'd momentarily forgotten that Kirk and Rosso were related. It took some work, but we got him there, Marcus continues, before offering a hand to the other boy.

It was a good fight. I wish you could've been a Star with me, Marcus says, before pausing. They'd already claimed three rings, meaning he, Puck, and Jeff could pass. Quicksilver must have obtained at least one, right? The Weavile was at least that capable with a literal army at his beck and call.

Here, Marcus says, taking the ring off his own finger. I have enough. Call it a loan, if you will. I still owe your brother a debt, Marcus says, adjusting his glasses up the bridge of his nose as he looks to see how his companions are doing, and waits to see how Kirk will respond. Having a friend in Elba would be very, very useful, and Kirk had clearly wanted to be among the Stars.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus blinks as Kirk surrenders, momentarily confused. The battle was still quite close; Comiter and Gelver were barely conscious, and Arista was the last Pokemon he could truly use in this fight.

If it was Pokken you would have won Marcus says, walking closer to take the ring, his sweatshirt extending to cover his hands. Even in defeat he didn't quite trust Kirk; he seemed nice enough, but the workshop was a rather appealing goal. Marcus knew that he would be more than willing to lie for an advantage if it meant making it in.

Your brother is, well, whole again, Marcus says, not elaborating much beyond that. He'd momentarily forgotten that Kirk and Rosso were related. It took some work, but we got him there, Marcus continues, before offering a hand to the other boy.

It was a good fight. I wish you could've been a Star with me, Marcus says, before pausing. They'd already claimed three rings, meaning he, Puck, and Jeff could pass. Quicksilver must have obtained at least one, right? The Weavile was at least that capable with a literal army at his beck and call.

Here, Marcus says, taking the ring off his own finger. I have enough. Call it a loan, if you will. I still owe your brother a debt, Marcus says, adjusting his glasses up the bridge of his nose as he looks to see how his companions are doing, and waits to see how Kirk will respond. Having a friend in Elba would be very, very useful, and Kirk had clearly wanted to be among the Stars.

Kirk just shook his head at the offer, a wistful smile on his face. When he spoke, he seemed resigned. Thank you Marcus, but I'm proud enough to need to earn my way into places like this.

Next time I'll just have to keep well clear of you and focus on myself. In the meantime, maybe I'll take a trip to Hoenn. I've heard Flannery is really something special, and Blaine said he'd write me a letter.

Unless you had anything significant to say to him, Kirk returned his mons, extinguished any fires with his Turtonator, and left to head back to civilization.

-----

As Kirk walked off and you saw the battle truly end, you turned to see how the others were doing. A giant cloud of flutter cotton-like seeds was twisting through the air, making it nearly impossible to see.

Suddenly though, two flashes of red light cut through the dense mass of plants, and the cloud dissipated unnaturally quickly. Puck and Jeff were gone, but Terry and the other girl were still there. For a moment you thought the two had lost, but when you heard their bragging float through the air, you realized that Puck and Jeff had been forced to use their ring halves that you'd collected together to flee the battle.

[Prehysterical]

This contest seemed to draw Godtouched like flies as Angus saw two others. The blue-haired lad wore the crest of Victini, god of courage. Angus's initial hesitance is overcome by anger at her sarcasm. Another lackey of Jamba... How many of the Primes does the King have in his pocket?

Gladia's eye glares at the woman attacks the strange golem-like Pokemon close to her. "Nay, lass! In fact, why don't you take a nice nap in the dirt?"
Angus and Gladia Shift and attack the Beheeyem.

Gladia uses Fury Cutter
AC 2: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] Physical Bug Damage
Gladia is now in Sword Stance

Angus uses Rage
AC 2: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3] Normal Physical Damage
Angus is now Enraged.
Angus burns 1 AP to activate Roughneck and reduce the Be's Special Attack by 1 CS.

[Arcran]

Kirk just shook his head at the offer, a wistful smile on his face. When he spoke, he seemed resigned. Thank you Marcus, but I'm proud enough to need to earn my way into places like this.

Next time I'll just have to keep well clear of you and focus on myself. In the meantime, maybe I'll take a trip to Hoenn. I've heard Flannery is really something special, and Blaine said he'd write me a letter.

Unless you had anything significant to say to him, Kirk returned his mons, extinguished any fires with his Turtonator, and left to head back to civilization.

-----

As Kirk walked off and you saw the battle truly end, you turned to see how the others were doing. A giant cloud of flutter cotton-like seeds was twisting through the air, making it nearly impossible to see.

Suddenly though, two flashes of red light cut through the dense mass of plants, and the cloud dissipated unnaturally quickly. Puck and Jeff were gone, but Terry and the other girl were still there. For a moment you thought the two had lost, but when you heard their bragging float through the air, you realized that Puck and Jeff had been forced to use their ring halves that you'd collected together to flee the battle.

Marcus gives Kirk a nod as the boy refuses the ring. He couldn't blame him and, well, when the Workshop came next, Marcus would give Kirk a wide birth.

Good luck Kirk. Don't be a stranger, Marcus says, silently wondering if Hoenn would be far enough away to escape whatever Chronos was planning.

With that battle taken care of, Marcus shifts his attention towards Terry, before cursing loudly. He'd been hoping Puck and Tiny could fight Terry to a standstill, and do enough damage that he could change the tide, but that clearly wasn't going to happen. Quicksilver! How many did you get? Marcus asks, as he prepares to slot his original ring half into the one that he had won off Kirk.

Enough for me to get up there without your help, Quicksilver states, holding up two halves.

Perfect. Will the sculptures be alright? Marcus asks, drawing a bored shrug from Quicksilver. They should be hiding and tailing the ship, but I'm not too worried. Worst case, I just make more, Quicksilver states, with Black and White still circling him. Marcus nods, before returning Gelver and Comiter with a few quick praises. Marcus snaps the ring together, before pausing slightly.

Quicksilver, how hard would it be for you to make some stilts? Marcus asks. The Weavile looked confused for a moment, before he grins slightly. It takes a few minutes, but soon enough an identical copy of Marcus is standing in front of him, slowly putting on a pair of glasses. The stomach opens for a moment, and Quicksilver's head peeks out, before vanishing back inside the body.

Shall we? Marcus asks, before sliding the ring onto his finger at the same moment Quicksilver does, and the two vanish.

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 32/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 2
Deadshot - Health: 24/117 (93) ; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +2 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 4
Dominic looks at the newcomer with a mix of annoyance and begrudging relief. He'd walked into another trap. And now he needed saving again. How the hell would he ever make Champion. "Deadshot, just smash him in the face, use feint attack!" The black glow cut into the mr. mime with a tearing force that only was made worse by the needles that blossomed along Deadshot's hand. Dominic kept an eye on Glass from behind the tree, watching the man with the ground symbol attack her beheeyem.
Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired and Focused Orders: +1 to Evasion and Accuracy, +2 to Save Checks and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Deadshot
Standard: Use Feint Attack

Feint Attack
Attack vs Can't Miss: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +2 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Cannot Miss
Ability: Needles - Target loses a Tick of HP

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits

[CosmicOccurence]

This contest seemed to draw Godtouched like flies as Angus saw two others. The blue-haired lad wore the crest of Victini, god of courage. Angus's initial hesitance is overcome by anger at her sarcasm. Another lackey of Jamba... How many of the Primes does the King have in his pocket?

Gladia's eye glares at the woman attacks the strange golem-like Pokemon close to her. "Nay, lass! In fact, why don't you take a nice nap in the dirt?"
Angus and Gladia Shift and attack the Beheeyem.

Gladia uses Fury Cutter
AC 2: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] Physical Bug Damage
Gladia is now in Sword Stance

Angus uses Rage
AC 2: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3] Normal Physical Damage
Angus is now Enraged.
Angus burns 1 AP to activate Roughneck and reduce the Be's Special Attack by 1 CS.


Dominic - Health: 32/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 2
Deadshot - Health: 24/117 (93) ; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 1+1 SATK 1+1 ANY 6+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Deadshot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +2 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 4
Dominic looks at the newcomer with a mix of annoyance and begrudging relief. He'd walked into another trap. And now he needed saving again. How the hell would he ever make Champion. "Deadshot, just smash him in the face, use feint attack!" The black glow cut into the mr. mime with a tearing force that only was made worse by the needles that blossomed along Deadshot's hand. Dominic kept an eye on Glass from behind the tree, watching the man with the ground symbol attack her beheeyem.
Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired and Focused Orders: +1 to Evasion and Accuracy, +2 to Save Checks and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Deadshot
Standard: Use Feint Attack

Feint Attack
Attack vs Can't Miss: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +2 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +12 Attack, +35 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Cannot Miss
Ability: Needles - Target loses a Tick of HP

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits


As the Mime went down hard with one hit, Glass began to look very concerned. Obviously she hadn't expected Deadshot to be so powerful. And while Angus missed his swing, the Beehyem was struck by one of Gladia's fierce swings.

The Beheyem sent a blast of entropic, black swirling energy out at Gladia, but clearly Glass had lost much of her confidence. Between Deadshot's casual skill and the stress of fighting two opponents at once, she was on the rocks.


Shadow Ball vs Gladia [roll0]
[roll1] special ghost vs Gladia

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus gives Kirk a nod as the boy refuses the ring. He couldn't blame him and, well, when the Workshop came next, Marcus would give Kirk a wide birth.

Good luck Kirk. Don't be a stranger, Marcus says, silently wondering if Hoenn would be far enough away to escape whatever Chronos was planning.

With that battle taken care of, Marcus shifts his attention towards Terry, before cursing loudly. He'd been hoping Puck and Tiny could fight Terry to a standstill, and do enough damage that he could change the tide, but that clearly wasn't going to happen. Quicksilver! How many did you get? Marcus asks, as he prepares to slot his original ring half into the one that he had won off Kirk.

Enough for me to get up there without your help, Quicksilver states, holding up two halves.

Perfect. Will the sculptures be alright? Marcus asks, drawing a bored shrug from Quicksilver. They should be hiding and tailing the ship, but I'm not too worried. Worst case, I just make more, Quicksilver states, with Black and White still circling him. Marcus nods, before returning Gelver and Comiter with a few quick praises. Marcus snaps the ring together, before pausing slightly.

Quicksilver, how hard would it be for you to make some stilts? Marcus asks. The Weavile looked confused for a moment, before he grins slightly. It takes a few minutes, but soon enough an identical copy of Marcus is standing in front of him, slowly putting on a pair of glasses. The stomach opens for a moment, and Quicksilver's head peeks out, before vanishing back inside the body.

Shall we? Marcus asks, before sliding the ring onto his finger at the same moment Quicksilver does, and the two vanish.

The Marcus replica was nearly perfect, though the movements looked a bit clunky as the ice-joints moved and shifted. As you both placed the rings onto your hands, you're surrounded by a pure red light.

Then your gut twists as it feels like you're being forced through a very, very thin straw. You struggle to draw breath in before suddenly the pressure lightens and you find yourself inside the Leviathan. Inside the Item Workshop.

The ground in this vast hanger is made out of some strange lightweight steel alloy, for there was no way Leviathan could stay aloft if this were any sort of traditional metal. What appeared to be a hanger door in the floor was closed, and there were large columns and scaffolding in the edges of the room to support the Wailord's internal structure. The ceiling appeared to be the bottom of the wailord's lungs, expanding and contracting in massive waves that caused the air to pulse in this room as the pressure intensified and loosened with the movement of the lungs.

Clear glass tubes snaked their way overhead, some with openings in the hanger but many simply passing into the membranes that formed the walls of this chamber. As a canister whizzed overhead through one of the tubes, you caught sight of a man clad in an electric yellow uniform with a simple mask on inside. Apparently the tubes were sort of like elevators in this Wailord.

As Quicksilver-Marcus appeared with a red flash next to you, you were approached by two more figures in the yellow outfits. You noticed the official Varro logo on their shirts. No other contestants seemed to be in this room, though there were several large doors built into the walls to your left, and an apartment building rose out in the corner of the room, half built of blood vessels and half of steel.

Congratulations Marcus and Quicksilver, and welcome to the Leviathan. One said to you. I should warn you that from here forward, please stay to the areas marked for contestant use, and that initiating attacks against any creature will disqualify you from the tournament unless in a sanctioned event. Please be careful or we will teleport you to the floor.

The other continued speaking smoothly, obviously having done this several times already. Please keep your ring on you at all times. It allows Leviathan to know who is inside it more accurately and also has special functions that will be revealed and enhance your combat ability.

May we show you to the waiting chamber? the other continued, waving his hand towards one of the doors off to the sides of the room. As he did so, a giant rumbling spread through the entire ship, much like a mini-earthquake, and you found yourself almost knocked to the ground.

Just the blowhole, the guard next to you said. Nothing to be worried about.

[Arcran]

The Marcus replica was nearly perfect, though the movements looked a bit clunky as the ice-joints moved and shifted. As you both placed the rings onto your hands, you're surrounded by a pure red light.

Then your gut twists as it feels like you're being forced through a very, very thin straw. You struggle to draw breath in before suddenly the pressure lightens and you find yourself inside the Leviathan. Inside the Item Workshop.

The ground in this vast hanger is made out of some strange lightweight steel alloy, for there was no way Leviathan could stay aloft if this were any sort of traditional metal. What appeared to be a hanger door in the floor was closed, and there were large columns and scaffolding in the edges of the room to support the Wailord's internal structure. The ceiling appeared to be the bottom of the wailord's lungs, expanding and contracting in massive waves that caused the air to pulse in this room as the pressure intensified and loosened with the movement of the lungs.

Clear glass tubes snaked their way overhead, some with openings in the hanger but many simply passing into the membranes that formed the walls of this chamber. As a canister whizzed overhead through one of the tubes, you caught sight of a man clad in an electric yellow uniform with a simple mask on inside. Apparently the tubes were sort of like elevators in this Wailord.

As Quicksilver-Marcus appeared with a red flash next to you, you were approached by two more figures in the yellow outfits. You noticed the official Varro logo on their shirts. No other contestants seemed to be in this room, though there were several large doors built into the walls to your left, and an apartment building rose out in the corner of the room, half built of blood vessels and half of steel.

Congratulations Marcus and Quicksilver, and welcome to the Leviathan. One said to you. I should warn you that from here forward, please stay to the areas marked for contestant use, and that initiating attacks against any creature will disqualify you from the tournament unless in a sanctioned event. Please be careful or we will teleport you to the floor.

The other continued speaking smoothly, obviously having done this several times already. Please keep your ring on you at all times. It allows Leviathan to know who is inside it more accurately and also has special functions that will be revealed and enhance your combat ability.

May we show you to the waiting chamber? the other continued, waving his hand towards one of the doors off to the sides of the room. As he did so, a giant rumbling spread through the entire ship, much like a mini-earthquake, and you found yourself almost knocked to the ground.

Just the blowhole, the guard next to you said. Nothing to be worried about.



Marcus looked around the massive Pokemon in awe, rendered mute for a moment as he tried to take in everything. A journal materialized in Marcus' hands, and his hand blurred across the page as he took note of anything and everything of note.

Is the Wailord still truly sentient? It seems unlikely that a living creature that can feel pain would tolerate such constructions inside itself, Marcus muses, before jotting down even more notes.

Quicksilver-Marcus rolls his eyes, before turning to the two men. No stabbings, no shootings, keep the trackers on. Got it, the Weavile says dryly, before quickly catching Marcus when the blowhole goes off. The disturbance seemed to have knocked Marcus out of his focused session, and the boy awkwardly cleared his throat as he continued to skim the notes on the page before him.

I would love to see my quarters Marcus states, still reading the page. Will my companion and I be provided with separate rooms?

[Prehysterical]

The ball of ghostly energy collided with Gladia's shield, causing a significant dent to appear. Her tassel-hands clenched in pain and Angus knew that she was in trouble.

Both of them continued their assault.
Gladia continues with Fury Cutter, up to 8 DB
AC 2: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] Physical Bug Damage

Angus uses Flail
AC 2: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3] Normal Physical Damage
If he hits, Angus will Mark with Fortress.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus looked around the massive Pokemon in awe, rendered mute for a moment as he tried to take in everything. A journal materialized in Marcus' hands, and his hand blurred across the page as he took note of anything and everything of note.

Is the Wailord still truly sentient? It seems unlikely that a living creature that can feel pain would tolerate such constructions inside itself, Marcus muses, before jotting down even more notes.

Quicksilver-Marcus rolls his eyes, before turning to the two men. No stabbings, no shootings, keep the trackers on. Got it, the Weavile says dryly, before quickly catching Marcus when the blowhole goes off. The disturbance seemed to have knocked Marcus out of his focused session, and the boy awkwardly cleared his throat as he continued to skim the notes on the page before him.

I would love to see my quarters Marcus states, still reading the page. Will my companion and I be provided with separate rooms?

If you wish, the man on your left said as he shifted paths from the waiting room door to the apartment complex that rose like a wart from the inside of the Wailord.

It's a fairly standard room, and you'll be provided with food directly to your room or in one of our dining complexes in the residential or competitive areas. The other said as he keyed into several doors and finally into a room that made your housing at Armedius seem luxurious. It was quite bland and nearly all made of steel. The mattress was industrial.

We can give you time to settle in if you'd like, but soon we will need to take you to the waiting room.

Keys will be issued later today, but it will be securely locked if you'd like to leave belongings here for now. The two were the picture of professionalism, so in sync you had to wonder a bit about them.

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 32/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 2
Arlo - Health: 107/107 (93) ; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 6+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Arlot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Special Defense Combat Stage
-Momentum: +1 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 1

Dominic recalls Deadshot and lets Arlo out, the sandslash shaking off some imaginary sand. "Arlo! Get deep! We're going after Glass!" The dirt flew up as Arlo's claws churned through the earth, the sound fading as he went farther.

Dominic
Standard: Switch Deadshot for Arlo

Shift: Focused Orders: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks

Swift: Tag Glass

Arlo
Standard: Use Dig

Dig Set-Up
Set-Up Effect: The user shifts 25 meters underground and their turn ends.

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus

[CosmicOccurence]

As Arlo burrows into the ground and Angus and Gladia team up to neatly cut down the Elgyem, Glass pulls a ball from her belt with desperation before looking over for help from her fellow Bishop.

And the two of you saw a Crobat - which Dominic knows to be Cavern - with his fangs sunk into the unconscious body of the Bishop, which seemed to have been drained of blood to the point of near unconsciousness. Even by Pokémon standards, it was a violent scene, and Dominic remembered Katie's insistence that Cavern not be used in league or friendly battles for fear that people might get hurt worse than they needed to.

In any case, Glass raised her hands, Fine, I surrender! she cried out, bending slightly out of fear that Arlo's strike could come from any of the ground around her. However, you got the sense that she thought that as soon as she surrendered that you'd call off Arlo, almost like a cartoon. There was still a smug certainty in her eyes even when she had so clearly lost.

You can have my rings, just call off that crazy spine-team you have.

[Arcran]

If you wish, the man on your left said as he shifted paths from the waiting room door to the apartment complex that rose like a wart from the inside of the Wailord.

It's a fairly standard room, and you'll be provided with food directly to your room or in one of our dining complexes in the residential or competitive areas. The other said as he keyed into several doors and finally into a room that made your housing at Armedius seem luxurious. It was quite bland and nearly all made of steel. The mattress was industrial.

We can give you time to settle in if you'd like, but soon we will need to take you to the waiting room.

Keys will be issued later today, but it will be securely locked if you'd like to leave belongings here for now. The two were the picture of professionalism, so in sync you had to wonder a bit about them.

We could use the space. Separate rooms it is, Quicksilver says, drawing a curt nod from Marcus. Sculptures did take up quite a bit of space, after all.

I do not believe that we will need time to settle in. However, will healing be provided? My team took some damage in the melee down below, Marcus says, looking closely at the two. Varro was known for robotics, after all...

Technology to tell if robots: [roll0]
Perception for anything else weird: [roll1]

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 32/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 2
Arlo - Health: 107/107 (93) ; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 6+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Arlot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Special Defense Combat Stage
-Momentum: +1 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 3

Dominic steps out from behind the tree. "I mean... I'm reminded of what little mercy you showed us the last time we fought. Which was none. But..." Dominic grinned darkly as the ground around Glass started to rumble. "Arlo's so deep right now, I couldn't stop him if I wanted to." Arlo exploded up from the ground behind Glass, showering her in an eruption of dirt and stone.

Dominic
Standard: Use Tips and Tricks Adept Ability: Once per scene you may add 1 to the accuracy roll of your Pokemon's attacks as a free action. This is treated as a natural part of the roll (ie, 19+1 becomes a natural 20, thus a critical hit). This must be used before the roll is made, not after you see the result.

Shift: Move from G11 to K8

Swift: Focused Orders: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks

Arlo
Standard: Use Dig

Dig Resolution
Resolution Effect: The user may shift horizontally using their burrow or overland speed, and then shifts 25 meters straight up. Upon reaching the surface, the user attacks with Dig, creating a Burst 1.

Dig
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0]+1 Natural, (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +2 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll] Physical Ground (DB 10: 3d8+10, +25 Attack)
If Crit: [roll]3d10+10/roll]

Shift: Dig-move to K2

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Dig hitting, +1 from Directed Focus

[CosmicOccurence]

We could use the space. Separate rooms it is, Quicksilver says, drawing a curt nod from Marcus. Sculptures did take up quite a bit of space, after all.

I do not believe that we will need time to settle in. However, will healing be provided? My team took some damage in the melee down below, Marcus says, looking closely at the two. Varro was known for robotics, after all...

Technology to tell if robots: [roll0]
Perception for anything else weird: [roll1]


Unfortunately, you couldn't tell if the two assistants were robots, of if they were just bizarrely in sync. However, as they continued you couldn't find any clues that you hadn't already noticed.

Healing is, of course, provided free of charge. We pride ourselves on letting our contestants compete in their best conditions to test the limits of what Pokemon and their trainers can do.

Now, let us show you to the waiting area, they said. They took you out of the apartment complex and through the hangar and into the door they showed you earlier. Inside, you found what appeared to be at the top of a set of luxury bleachers in a massive training gym that made the facilities at Armedius look like a joke.

A small wooden pedestal stood at the bottom of the bleachers with a microphone attached. The steel rectangle in the floor behind it made you suspect that people would at some point be rising out from the ground. A red clock showed a blinking red 19:37, with the seconds slowly ticking down towards 0.

There were eleven in the waiting area. Most stood in small groups, but the makeup generally looked like this:
Alone


A guy that seemed to be from Hoenn by the style of his clothes. A string of glowing symbols in two chains stream from his back when you use symbolsight.

Pair
An albino girl with long white hair that gives off mild goth vibes. Possibly albino. Her right arm is enclosed in an oversized sleeve that hangs down to here knees. She's with a man with a prosthetic leg and a prosthetic arm, and you kind of get the feeling that he's got a lot more tech tucked into his body.

A girl. Judging by the iron skillet at her waist, she's a chef. Judging by the peppers on the other side of her waist, she's a disciple of Leo Blackwell.

Small Group
Lukas - a young man with blonde spiked hair who seems to constantly be on his phone. If you're into social media, you recognize him as a instagram sensation who's been blogging his time through the gym challenge and is a Rank 6 trainer.

He's with a girl with curly brown hair and a CSI vermillion t-shirt and a woman with yoga pants, a tank top/sports bra combo, and an eyepatch.


Tiny/Puck/Jeff/A girl whose hair suggests Zahaardian descent but who wears the outfit of Hidden Oasis. She's got five knives in her belt, but you're pretty sure you can see at least three more hidden around her body. You suspect she's got even more. The Dark Symbol hangs above her head.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic - Health: 32/110; Initiative: 10; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 2
Arlo - Health: 107/107 (93) ; Intiative: 30; Evasions: ATK 6+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Arlot:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Special Defense Combat Stage
-Momentum: +1 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 3

Dominic steps out from behind the tree. "I mean... I'm reminded of what little mercy you showed us the last time we fought. Which was none. But..." Dominic grinned darkly as the ground around Glass started to rumble. "Arlo's so deep right now, I couldn't stop him if I wanted to." Arlo exploded up from the ground behind Glass, showering her in an eruption of dirt and stone.

Dominic
Standard: Use Tips and Tricks Adept Ability: Once per scene you may add 1 to the accuracy roll of your Pokemon's attacks as a free action. This is treated as a natural part of the roll (ie, 19+1 becomes a natural 20, thus a critical hit). This must be used before the roll is made, not after you see the result.

Shift: Move from G11 to K8

Swift: Focused Orders: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks

Arlo
Standard: Use Dig

Dig Resolution
Resolution Effect: The user may shift horizontally using their burrow or overland speed, and then shifts 25 meters straight up. Upon reaching the surface, the user attacks with Dig, creating a Burst 1.

Dig
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0]+1 Natural, (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +2 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll] Physical Ground (DB 10: 3d8+10, +25 Attack)
If Crit: [roll]3d10+10/roll]

Shift: Dig-move to K2

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Dig hitting, +1 from Directed Focus


Arlo connected with Glass's face, and from the grinding sound that the attack made, you definitely broke something ... probably her nose. She crashed to the ground groaning in pain. She couldn't seem to bring herself to speak, but you noticed her rings hanging from her belt, ready for you to take.

[Prehysterical]

As Arlo burrows into the ground and Angus and Gladia team up to neatly cut down the Elgyem, Glass pulls a ball from her belt with desperation before looking over for help from her fellow Bishop.

And the two of you saw a Crobat - which Dominic knows to be Cavern - with his fangs sunk into the unconscious body of the Bishop, which seemed to have been drained of blood to the point of near unconsciousness. Even by Pokémon standards, it was a violent scene, and Dominic remembered Katie's insistence that Cavern not be used in league or friendly battles for fear that people might get hurt worse than they needed to.

In any case, Glass raised her hands, Fine, I surrender! she cried out, bending slightly out of fear that Arlo's strike could come from any of the ground around her. However, you got the sense that she thought that as soon as she surrendered that you'd call off Arlo, almost like a cartoon. There was still a smug certainty in her eyes even when she had so clearly lost.

You can have my rings, just call off that crazy spine-team you have.
After sorting out the Psychic Pokemon, Angus looked and saw the Crobat sucking the life out of the other woman. Seeing who could only be the Poison Prime from the symbol above her head, Angus beseeches her, "Lass, will you nay call it off? That one looks to be one foot in the grave!"

Despite his own distaste for Skull's accomplice, even Angus winced at the sound of bone shattering under the blow.

[Jacior]

Dominic steps up to Glass, shaking his head as he looks at her. "Arlo, break something if she tries anything." The sandslash rattled its quills intimidatingly as Dominic goes down to grab the ring pieces off her belt.

[CosmicOccurence]

After sorting out the Psychic Pokemon, Angus looked and saw the Crobat sucking the life out of the other woman. Seeing who could only be the Poison Prime from the symbol above her head, Angus beseeches her, "Lass, will you nay call it off? That one looks to be one foot in the grave!"

Despite his own distaste for Skull's accomplice, even Angus winced at the sound of bone shattering under the blow.


Dominic steps up to Glass, shaking his head as he looks at her. "Arlo, break something if she tries anything." The sandslash rattled its quills intimidatingly as Dominic goes down to grab the ring pieces off her belt.

The girl (Katie) does in fact pull the Crobat (Cavern) away from his target. Sorry about that, but she forced me to get serious, and I don't hold any punches against Jamba trash. Katie said.

I hope you don't take this the wrong way ... but are you here to fight for rings? We have enough to share, but some people get really bloodthirsty when it comes to things like this.

It turned out that Glass had two ring halves, meaning that you do indeed have enough to share. They're small things, engraved with a strange helix-like pattern around the edges. Meanwhile, Arlo sits on top of Glass, his sharp claws hanging casually near her chest.

[Arcran]

Unfortunately, you couldn't tell if the two assistants were robots, of if they were just bizarrely in sync. However, as they continued you couldn't find any clues that you hadn't already noticed.

Healing is, of course, provided free of charge. We pride ourselves on letting our contestants compete in their best conditions to test the limits of what Pokemon and their trainers can do.

Now, let us show you to the waiting area, they said. They took you out of the apartment complex and through the hangar and into the door they showed you earlier. Inside, you found what appeared to be at the top of a set of luxury bleachers in a massive training gym that made the facilities at Armedius look like a joke.

A small wooden pedestal stood at the bottom of the bleachers with a microphone attached. The steel rectangle in the floor behind it made you suspect that people would at some point be rising out from the ground. A red clock showed a blinking red 19:37, with the seconds slowly ticking down towards 0.

There were eleven in the waiting area. Most stood in small groups, but the makeup generally looked like this:
Alone


A guy that seemed to be from Hoenn by the style of his clothes. A string of glowing symbols in two chains stream from his back when you use symbolsight.

Pair
An albino girl with long white hair that gives off mild goth vibes. Possibly albino. Her right arm is enclosed in an oversized sleeve that hangs down to here knees. She's with a man with a prosthetic leg and a prosthetic arm, and you kind of get the feeling that he's got a lot more tech tucked into his body.

A girl. Judging by the iron skillet at her waist, she's a chef. Judging by the peppers on the other side of her waist, she's a disciple of Leo Blackwell.

Small Group
Lukas - a young man with blonde spiked hair who seems to constantly be on his phone. If you're into social media, you recognize him as a instagram sensation who's been blogging his time through the gym challenge and is a Rank 6 trainer.

He's with a girl with curly brown hair and a CSI vermillion t-shirt and a woman with yoga pants, a tank top/sports bra combo, and an eyepatch.


Tiny/Puck/Jeff/A girl whose hair suggests Zahaardian descent but who wears the outfit of Hidden Oasis. She's got five knives in her belt, but you're pretty sure you can see at least three more hidden around her body. You suspect she's got even more. The Dark Symbol hangs above her head.



Marcus looks around the room slowly, staring at each person in turn as he tries to get as good a read as possible on the room. He pulls a mostly empty journal out, jots a few notes down about the Dark Prime, then pulls out a separate journal and begins to scribble down notes about everybody else in the room. This was the competition, and Marcus intended to make sure that he was as prepared as possible for it.

Quicksilver, on the other hand, simply winks at Marcus, then walks over to the group of familiar Primes.

You made it up! Quicksilver says in a passable imitation of Marcus' voice. We didn't spot you down below, and got worried, "Marcus" adds, just before the real Marcus makes his way over. The real one nods curtly to Jeff, Puck, and Tiny, then offers a hand to the girl. Marcus Ticker. And you are? He does his best to keep a straight face, but "Marcus" lets out a small, rather undignified giggle at the whole situation.

Assuming this is a new Scene, I'm going to Chronicler the everybody I haven't. I should have enough AP to pull it off, and have 3 left over. Going to Chronicler the training gym as well, because why not?

Occult Education for Hoenn Man: [roll0]
Tech Edu for RoboMan: [roll1]

General Edu for Albino name: [roll2]
General Edu for Hoenn Man name: [roll3]
General Edu for Robo Man name: [roll4]
General Edu for Chef name: [roll5]
General Edu for CSI name: [roll6]
General Edu for Yoga Pants name: [roll7]
General Edu for Girl name: [roll8]

[Prehysterical]

Angus's face hardens a little as Katie explains the woman's identity. "More Pawns? Jamba seeks to flood the board, no doubt!" He relaxes his stance to show his intent.

"Nay, I took care of a Bishop earlier who already had himself a nice little collection of rings. I came to see what else was happening before going up to the ship." His eyes widen as he suddenly remembers his manners and releases Gladia to hold a fist against his breastplate. "Oh, right, how rude of me... I am Angus of the Claw. No doubt my other title is plain for your own eyes to see, Lady of Poison."

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus looks around the room slowly, staring at each person in turn as he tries to get as good a read as possible on the room. He pulls a mostly empty journal out, jots a few notes down about the Dark Prime, then pulls out a separate journal and begins to scribble down notes about everybody else in the room. This was the competition, and Marcus intended to make sure that he was as prepared as possible for it.

Quicksilver, on the other hand, simply winks at Marcus, then walks over to the group of familiar Primes.

You made it up! Quicksilver says in a passable imitation of Marcus' voice. We didn't spot you down below, and got worried, "Marcus" adds, just before the real Marcus makes his way over. The real one nods curtly to Jeff, Puck, and Tiny, then offers a hand to the girl. Marcus Ticker. And you are? He does his best to keep a straight face, but "Marcus" lets out a small, rather undignified giggle at the whole situation.

Assuming this is a new Scene, I'm going to Chronicler the everybody I haven't. I should have enough AP to pull it off, and have 3 left over. Going to Chronicler the training gym as well, because why not?

Occult Education for Hoenn Man: [roll0]
Tech Edu for RoboMan: [roll1]

General Edu for Albino name: [roll2]
General Edu for Hoenn Man name: [roll3]
General Edu for Robo Man name: [roll4]
General Edu for Chef name: [roll5]
General Edu for CSI name: [roll6]
General Edu for Yoga Pants name: [roll7]
General Edu for Girl name: [roll8]

The girl that Quicksilver approached simply raised her eyebrows. You know Quicksilver, I would say that I'm impressed you learned how to do something with your powers other than just stab people more effectively ... but it's pretty easy to figure out what's happening when the real one has the symbol of another god on it and you just have Arceus's blessing.

The face blurred out for a split second to you both - though the others seemed to have no idea what was happening - and another, identical girl appeared standing right beside the original. The blurred out face revealed a dark muzzle and two beady, ruby eyes. Trying to beat me at my own game eh? I prefer to keep my Prime totally hidden from the eyes of others rather than simply providing a double though. Different styles I guess. the Cryptid said.

Your normal companions didn't react to the new person or the muzzle or the last comment. It seems they totally were unaware of what had happened. Tiny grinned and slapped one of his huge hands on the "girl's" back. This is Jean! he boomed cheerily. She's soooooo great! Though she did end up in jail for a bit, one of the other groups looked over at this comment, as Tiny is being entirely too loud, as usual.

The giant leaned in conspiratorially. She's part of our little Slowking network, he said.

Glad to see you made it up ok, Jeff said, and Puck nodded.
We got a little overwhelmed, Puck added. So we had to flee. But we figured that you could handle yourself against Kirk well enough.

Speaking of Terry, she walked in the room with her companion, and went to a side table with orange juice that you hadn't noticed to pour themselves a glass.


You can choose how QS responds. He and Veil are on pretty great terms and have a easygoing friendly rivalry a la Gimlee and Legolas.

[CosmicOccurence]

Angus's face hardens a little as Katie explains the woman's identity. "More Pawns? Jamba seeks to flood the board, no doubt!" He relaxes his stance to show his intent.

"Nay, I took care of a Bishop earlier who already had himself a nice little collection of rings. I came to see what else was happening before going up to the ship." His eyes widen as he suddenly remembers his manners and releases Gladia to hold a fist against his breastplate. "Oh, right, how rude of me... I am Angus of the Claw. No doubt my other title is plain for your own eyes to see, Lady of Poison."

I know people from Zahaard are more formal than others, but if you ever call me Lady again, I will sick cavern on you. Katie said, mostly joking. You can call me Katie, and this is my brother Dominic. And I'm not sure about what the other title is. Ground Prime sure, but no idea about the floating dots. Dom? she glanced at you with a raised eyebrow, obviously asking if you had any insight about the six dots floating in front of his chest.

[Arcran]

The girl that Quicksilver approached simply raised her eyebrows. You know Quicksilver, I would say that I'm impressed you learned how to do something with your powers other than just stab people more effectively ... but it's pretty easy to figure out what's happening when the real one has the symbol of another god on it and you just have Arceus's blessing.

The face blurred out for a split second to you both - though the others seemed to have no idea what was happening - and another, identical girl appeared standing right beside the original. The blurred out face revealed a dark muzzle and two beady, ruby eyes. Trying to beat me at my own game eh? I prefer to keep my Prime totally hidden from the eyes of others rather than simply providing a double though. Different styles I guess. the Cryptid said.

Your normal companions didn't react to the new person or the muzzle or the last comment. It seems they totally were unaware of what had happened. Tiny grinned and slapped one of his huge hands on the "girl's" back. This is Jean! he boomed cheerily. She's soooooo great! Though she did end up in jail for a bit, one of the other groups looked over at this comment, as Tiny is being entirely too loud, as usual.

The giant leaned in conspiratorially. She's part of our little Slowking network, he said.

Glad to see you made it up ok, Jeff said, and Puck nodded.
We got a little overwhelmed, Puck added. So we had to flee. But we figured that you could handle yourself against Kirk well enough.

Speaking of Terry, she walked in the room with her companion, and went to a side table with orange juice that you hadn't noticed to pour themselves a glass.


You can choose how QS responds. He and Veil are on pretty great terms and have a easygoing friendly rivalry a la Gimlee and Legolas.



Quicksilver-Marcus grins widely, the boring human teeth sharpening into points as Quicksilver doesn't bother trying to disguise his voice as he extends a hand towards the Zoroark, small claws appearing on the fingertips. Some Primes like to hide, some have enough ego that there needs to be two of them, Quicksilver says tauntingly with a glance at Marcus. Of course, I suppose if I had just hid, I wouldn't have gotten this, he says, lifting his hand with only the middle finger pointing up, revealing a shining ring. I'll try to win you something nice Veil, alright? 'Second Place' trophies are on the list, right? Quicksilver says, causing Marcus to roll his eyes.

A pleasure to meet you, Veil and Jean, Marcus says, staring intently at Veil, although his eyes did drift to Jean for a moment. I'm sorry that I never managed to catch you online. It seems our Primes are well acquainted, at the least, Marcus adds, before looking over at his companions. I'm glad you all made it up alright. Sorry that I wasn't much help, he says somewhat sheepishly. Kirk gave me a bit more trouble than last time, Marcus says, before pulling out his Cryptid Journal and looking at Veil intently, his glasses glinting.

Now, how exactly do your powers work? Just an extension of Zoroark's natural abilities? No... Marcus says, glancing at Jean for a moment as he whispers half to himself. That would only let you disguise yourself. Larger illusions? How big can they go? Are you blocking her symbol, or... Marcus says, his eyes flashing towards Jean's hand to see if she's wearing a ring similar to the one Darwin has.

He's always like this, Quicksilver whispers to Veil apologetically. It's easier if you just go along with it.

We're Chronicling Veil too! 2 AP remaining.

[CosmicOccurence]

Quicksilver-Marcus grins widely, the boring human teeth sharpening into points as Quicksilver doesn't bother trying to disguise his voice as he extends a hand towards the Zoroark, small claws appearing on the fingertips. Some Primes like to hide, some have enough ego that there needs to be two of them, Quicksilver says tauntingly with a glance at Marcus. Of course, I suppose if I had just hid, I wouldn't have gotten this, he says, lifting his hand with only the middle finger pointing up, revealing a shining ring. I'll try to win you something nice Veil, alright? 'Second Place' trophies are on the list, right? Quicksilver says, causing Marcus to roll his eyes.

A pleasure to meet you, Veil and Jean, Marcus says, staring intently at Veil, although his eyes did drift to Jean for a moment. I'm sorry that I never managed to catch you online. It seems our Primes are well acquainted, at the least, Marcus adds, before looking over at his companions. I'm glad you all made it up alright. Sorry that I wasn't much help, he says somewhat sheepishly. Kirk gave me a bit more trouble than last time, Marcus says, before pulling out his Cryptid Journal and looking at Veil intently, his glasses glinting.

Now, how exactly do your powers work? Just an extension of Zoroark's natural abilities? No... Marcus says, glancing at Jean for a moment as he whispers half to himself. That would only let you disguise yourself. Larger illusions? How big can they go? Are you blocking her symbol, or... Marcus says, his eyes flashing towards Jean's hand to see if she's wearing a ring similar to the one Darwin has.

He's always like this, Quicksilver whispers to Veil apologetically. It's easier if you just go along with it.

We're Chronicling Veil too! 2 AP remaining.

Veil rolled his eyes at you. Oh god ... you really got saddled with a boring one Quicksilver. Jean at least enjoys playing with Knives still. And you know I don't mind second place. After all, even I can't claim to be able to best Arceus. Your bronze medal will be a nice conciliation prize though. I'm glad they still give out medals just for showing up for poor souls like you.

The two continued to bicker in a friendly manner while Tiny struggled to keep Tink, who had come with mimosa in hand, from leaping into it with the two of them.

Well we got out alright! Puck said happily in response to your earlier comment. Seriously though, Varro is really something. Teleportation rings that split in half? A flying wailord with an entire city center inside practically?

It does seem like he's working with tech at a much higher level than he's made available to the public, Jeff said. Seems more like magic half the time to me to be honest.

[Jacior]

Dominic pulls the ring pieces off before he stands up and looks at Angus. "Uh... I got nothing. I'm not super great on the god thing. Battling is always more my interest." He shrugs. "Probably should start reading up on that actually..." He sighs before looking down at Glass. "Are these the only rings you have?"

[Prehysterical]

"I am Regigigas's Smith for this cycle, as Varro was in his time," Angus tells Katie.

Looking between the two of them, Angus feels a pang of guilt. "Another set of Godtouched siblings? It is good to see that you take care of each other. My sister was taken by Jamba... I don't even know if she is alive..."

[Arcran]

Veil rolled his eyes at you. Oh god ... you really got saddled with a boring one Quicksilver. Jean at least enjoys playing with Knives still. And you know I don't mind second place. After all, even I can't claim to be able to best Arceus. Your bronze medal will be a nice conciliation prize though. I'm glad they still give out medals just for showing up for poor souls like you.

The two continued to bicker in a friendly manner while Tiny struggled to keep Tink, who had come with mimosa in hand, from leaping into it with the two of them.

Well we got out alright! Puck said happily in response to your earlier comment. Seriously though, Varro is really something. Teleportation rings that split in half? A flying wailord with an entire city center inside practically?

It does seem like he's working with tech at a much higher level than he's made available to the public, Jeff said. Seems more like magic half the time to me to be honest.

Marcus smiles smugly at Jeff's comment. What makes you think it isn't? Marcus asks his dorm mate, momentarily feeling sorry for Jeff. While this was exactly what the other boy needed to propel his item crafting forward, he was so far our of his depth that it wasn't even funny. Half the people here were Primes, and the other half were just as odd. Rarely wearing enough clothes could hardly keep up. Still, no matter what they run on, I'm glad they worked for the three of you; without some Shooting Stars and old friends this would be a lot less entertaining Marcus says, in as cheerful of a tone as he can. Still, he can't help but inspect his ring; a teleport, even to a fixed location, would be immensely useful.

Are we waiting for any others? Marcus asks the others, still, staring at his ring, although he spares a pointed glance at Jean and Veil. I'm assuming Katie will make it up without issue, he says, hoping his small tidbit of information would set Jean at ease, if only slightly.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic pulls the ring pieces off before he stands up and looks at Angus. "Uh... I got nothing. I'm not super great on the god thing. Battling is always more my interest." He shrugs. "Probably should start reading up on that actually..." He sighs before looking down at Glass. "Are these the only rings you have?"




Marcus smiles smugly at Jeff's comment. What makes you think it isn't? Marcus asks his dorm mate, momentarily feeling sorry for Jeff. While this was exactly what the other boy needed to propel his item crafting forward, he was so far our of his depth that it wasn't even funny. Half the people here were Primes, and the other half were just as odd. Rarely wearing enough clothes could hardly keep up. Still, no matter what they run on, I'm glad they worked for the three of you; without some Shooting Stars and old friends this would be a lot less entertaining Marcus says, in as cheerful of a tone as he can. Still, he can't help but inspect his ring; a teleport, even to a fixed location, would be immensely useful.

Are we waiting for any others? Marcus asks the others, still, staring at his ring, although he spares a pointed glance at Jean and Veil. I'm assuming Katie will make it up without issue, he says, hoping his small tidbit of information would set Jean at ease, if only slightly.

She's been travelling with her brother, but even if she didn't have backup she'd have no problems. Just a heads up though, Cavern has turned a bit ... testy since you last saw him, Tiny trilled happily.

Jean meanwhile, the real Jean, not the cryptid Jean, cocked her head. I was rather hoping I could see the Ground Prime. Nice guy, big muscles, carries a hammer. A bit righteous, but it's cute in a savior sort of way. Jeff meanwhile, seemed to be having trouble processing the whole experience.

You expecting anyone else to show up? Puck asked. Rumor had it that there were a few Bishops hanging around, so I'm a bit surprised to not see Water and Psychic here.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic pulls the ring pieces off before he stands up and looks at Angus. "Uh... I got nothing. I'm not super great on the god thing. Battling is always more my interest." He shrugs. "Probably should start reading up on that actually..." He sighs before looking down at Glass. "Are these the only rings you have?"


"I am Regigigas's Smith for this cycle, as Varro was in his time," Angus tells Katie.

Looking between the two of them, Angus feels a pang of guilt. "Another set of Godtouched siblings? It is good to see that you take care of each other. My sister was taken by Jamba... I don't even know if she is alive..."

Glass gives a groan which you can only assume is a yes, though searching her reveals no hidden ring halves. Katie went over to check the other jamba bishop after giving her condolences to Angus.

Trying to give you two a chance to interact organically, so assume she takes her time

[Arcran]

She's been travelling with her brother, but even if she didn't have backup she'd have no problems. Just a heads up though, Cavern has turned a bit ... testy since you last saw him, Tiny trilled happily.

Jean meanwhile, the real Jean, not the cryptid Jean, cocked her head. I was rather hoping I could see the Ground Prime. Nice guy, big muscles, carries a hammer. A bit righteous, but it's cute in a savior sort of way. Jeff meanwhile, seemed to be having trouble processing the whole experience.

You expecting anyone else to show up? Puck asked. Rumor had it that there were a few Bishops hanging around, so I'm a bit surprised to not see Water and Psychic here.


Brother? Marcus asks in confusion. As far as he knew, Katie was an only child. His confusion evident, Marcus decides to quickly change the topic, something that Puck made rather easy.

Not as far as I know. I'd hope Anistacia will make it up. We can always use more Stars, right Jeff? Marcus says with a grin, trying to bring some semblance of normalcy to Jeff's current situation, before turning to Puck. Psychic is probably happy to stay put for now; I don't see him moving until there's something concrete. And Water... Marcus says, trailing off slightly. I have no idea where he is. He does like to show up unannounced, so don't count him out, Marcus says, some of his annoyance slipping through.

[Prehysterical]

Angus looks over at Dominic with some judgment after Katie walks away. "For one bears the Crest of Bravery, that final blow against a surrendering opponent wasn't seems very out of place. I have no idea how much trouble Jamba has caused you, but we must be wary of becoming just like them."

[CosmicOccurence]

Brother? Marcus asks in confusion. As far as he knew, Katie was an only child. His confusion evident, Marcus decides to quickly change the topic, something that Puck made rather easy.

Not as far as I know. I'd hope Anistacia will make it up. We can always use more Stars, right Jeff? Marcus says with a grin, trying to bring some semblance of normalcy to Jeff's current situation, before turning to Puck. Psychic is probably happy to stay put for now; I don't see him moving until there's something concrete. And Water... Marcus says, trailing off slightly. I have no idea where he is. He does like to show up unannounced, so don't count him out, Marcus says, some of his annoyance slipping through.

I'm sure she'll make it, Jeff said. If I was able to, she can for sure. Tiny meanwhile, was waxing eloquent about how cute Katie's twin brother was. Apparently guys who died their hair was his thing.

Anyways, thanks for the heads up about Teller, Jean said. Don't think I'll be going back to Central anytime soon ... not that I cared for it much to begin with. Too much metal and too little magic. It stinks of death and lack of souls.

I'm just wondering if Varro went the way of his disciple you know? she said. I came to get some weapons to defend myself, but if Varro is part of Jamba then we're in a whole heap of trouble. If he can teleport us here, he can probably keep us from leaving.

[Jacior]

Dominic quirks an eyebrow at Angus. "You mistake Bravery for Victory, uh... Sir Knight?" He'd never come across someone so... out of time, was the right phrase. "But I've less than no love for Jamba. If I remove a couple here, it's all the better. For what she's done alone I'd be within my rights at this fight. And if they've taken your sister, then you should have more reason than me. I can tell you as of a few months ago, Senga Barsavii was alive..." He looks at his feet trying to decide if he should say it. "If they've really captured her, she'll be here at the workshop battle. They wanted you and her to be delivered to Queen. This battle... it's very important to Her."

[Arcran]

I'm sure she'll make it, Jeff said. If I was able to, she can for sure. Tiny meanwhile, was waxing eloquent about how cute Katie's twin brother was. Apparently guys who died their hair was his thing.

Anyways, thanks for the heads up about Teller, Jean said. Don't think I'll be going back to Central anytime soon ... not that I cared for it much to begin with. Too much metal and too little magic. It stinks of death and lack of souls.

I'm just wondering if Varro went the way of his disciple you know? she said. I came to get some weapons to defend myself, but if Varro is part of Jamba then we're in a whole heap of trouble. If he can teleport us here, he can probably keep us from leaving.

I'm just glad the message got passed along. The other side with Veil would, well, be rather problematic, Marcus says, adjusting his glasses as he tries to ignore Tiny's long, detailed description about the wonders of Katie's twin. Fortunately, between all of us, I doubt even Varro could hold us against our will. A teleporting ring is one thing, but teleporting somebody against their will is another, Marcus says, drawing from his rather vast knowledge about magic before the things Tiny was saying slowly start to plant an idea in Marcus' mind.

Wait, Marcus says, putting a hand on Tiny's shoulder to interrupt him. It made absolutely zero sense, but what had made sense in the past few months? Marcus had stopped believing in coincidence quite some time ago.

What is her twin's name?

There was a slightly panicked note in Marcus' voice, as if he already knew the answer but was terrified to hear it aloud.

[Prehysterical]

"Just Angus will do," the young knight tells him.

Before Angus can tell Dom about the lessons he learned about his own family's history, however, he is stopped short by the flow of information. He narrows his eyes suspiciously at Dom, his expression mirrored by Gladia. "And how is it that a man that I have never met or even heard can know not only my lineage, but my sister's as well?"

[Jacior]

"Jamba's been keeping eyes on us for months. And I've made it a mission to a thorn in their side since they tried to steal my Cryptid 3 days into having my licence!" Dominic kicks Glass in the shin. "I found a base, her's I'm guessing. There was a book with info on a lot of us. Some were removed. I'm guessing those were the ones that were on their side. But I have no idea. I'm very, very good at memorizing things. So I memorized a bunch of pages before she burned the book and attacked me." He glares down at Glass, fury beyond fury written on his face. "They almost destroyed one of the Old Ones and kept me from healing my father. They wanted a war and now I will wipe Jamba off the face of Hayle if I have to do it with my bare hands."

[Prehysterical]

Angus knows all too well the hurt of being hunted. "Believe me when I say that I understand how you feel. I've lost count of the number of times that Jamba has tried to kill me. Pluto nearly killed my mother when he took my sister and Skull tried to seal us both into a tomb. But the most difficult part of learning the sword is not when to use it, but when not to." Angus releases Gladia, leaving her to float beside him.

"I've seen entire cities consigned to the grave in the south because of the wars this Cycle brings. I fear that we will have another mountain of corpses if we do not temper our power with restraint. My own family's bloodline was nearly snuffed out due to the obsession with killing and avenging wrongs." He mentions this sadly, remembering the empty halls of the Sandrunner estate.

"With that said, I won't rest, either, until the board is cleared and the pieces have been unmasked. Nice to see that I am not alone in this."

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic and Angus

As Angus, Katie, and Dominic placed the rings on their fingers, your gut twists as it feels like you're being forced through a very, very thin straw. You struggle to draw breath in before suddenly the pressure lightens and you find yourself inside the Leviathan. Inside the Item Workshop.

The ground in this vast hanger is made out of some strange lightweight steel alloy, for there was no way Leviathan could stay aloft if this were any sort of traditional metal. What appeared to be a hanger door in the floor was closed, and there were large columns and scaffolding in the edges of the room to support the Wailord's internal structure. The ceiling appeared to be the bottom of the wailord's lungs, expanding and contracting in massive waves that caused the air to pulse in this room as the pressure intensified and loosened with the movement of the lungs.

Clear glass tubes snaked their way overhead, some with openings in the hanger but many simply passing into the membranes that formed the walls of this chamber. As a canister whizzed overhead through one of the tubes, you caught sight of a man clad in an electric yellow uniform with a simple mask on inside. Apparently the tubes were sort of like elevators in this Wailord.

You were approached by two more figures in the yellow outfits. You noticed the official Varro logo on their shirts. No other contestants seemed to be in this room, though there were several large doors built into the walls to your left, and an apartment building rose out in the corner of the room, half built of blood vessels and half of steel.

Congratulations Dominic Katie and Angus, and welcome to the Leviathan. One said to you. I should warn you that from here forward, please stay to the areas marked for contestant use, and that initiating attacks against any creature will disqualify you from the tournament unless in a sanctioned event. Please be careful or we will teleport you to the ground.

The other continued speaking smoothly, obviously having done this several times already. Please keep your ring on you at all times. It allows Leviathan to know who is inside it more accurately and also has special functions that will be revealed and enhance your combat ability.

The welcome ceremony will start soon, the other continued, leading you through the main door. You stopped at a healing station where you and your team were fully restored, before continuing into a platform at the top of a large set of bleachers where a large collection of people gathered, including (to Dominic's eyes) Marcus and (to Angus's eyes) Jean. When Jean saw you arrive she stood on her toes and waved excitedly at you.

'I thought you'd be here!' she mouthed at you. 'What took so long?'

-----

Marcus
People kept filtering into the room until there were a few over twenty, though there was no sign of Anastacia yet. With only a few minutes till the deadline, Katie, Dominic, and a man in armor you didn't recognize came into the room. Jean waved frantically at the man though, and Tiny let out a soft sigh at the sight of Dominic.

[Arcran]

Marcus watches as the group's attention shifts, following Jean's gaze to lock in on the large man in armor. That would have to be the Ground Prime and, if what Jean had said was to be believed, one of their allies in this fight. He grins as he spots Katie, which rapidly turns into a scowl when Dominic appears. That all but confirmed that relation, at least. After briefly enabling his Symbolsight, Marcus confirms that, as well as learning something far more interesting about the man, as well as something new about Dominic.

Regigigas and Victini. Regigigas makes sense with that attire, although why in the world the God of Victory would choose him is beyond me... Marcus muses, smiling to himself slightly. Either way, Marcus gives a wave that could almost be described as enthusiastic to Katie, before walking briskly towards her and offering a quick, awkward hug. You made it! I was a little disappointed when you didn't show up with Tiny. I'd been looking forward to battling together again, Marcus says somewhat wistfully. You'll have to tell me about how the great Katie Hawthorne carried her team to victory once we have a moment to rest, Marcus says with a slight smirk. Although, it would appear this one doesn't need to be carried, he adds quickly before turning towards the armored man.

A pleasure to meet you, Marcus says, stiffly offering a hand. Jean's told us a bit about you. I'm Marcus, he says, trying to take in the Ground Prime as much as possible, his eyes darting back and forth between his armor and various weapons. You're from Zahaard, I assume?

Throughout it all, Marcus makes a point of ignoring Dominic.

Going to Chronicle Angus!

[Prehysterical]

The amount of creativity that went into the creation of the workshop should have impressed Angus. Instead, the young man looked with some horror at the intermingling of living flesh and intrusive metal. He wondered if the grafting caused the Wailord any significant pain.

Angus notes the rules of Varro's lackeys with interest. Will we be teleported to the ground if they come off? Or can Varro simply track us with them?

As they move on, they finally come to a room that is aglow with the symbols of the Primes, but one lass in particular catches Angus's eye. Angus feels a warmth creep through him at the sight of Jean's eyes lighting up when he enters. He simply mouths "Skull" back to her. They would have plenty of time later to... catch up.

A taller man with glasses steps forward, greeting Katie before turning his attention to Angus. Angus shoots a questioning look at Jean when her name is mentioned, wondering what sort of cheeky things she has had. When he looks back at Marcus, though, he is surprised by the look that is there. He has seen that look before, in the eyes of a blacksmith inspecting a weapon for any cracks or flaws. Angus meets his gaze unflinchingly, shaking the other Prime's hand with a firm grip. "I was. Home is carried on my back these days, though I hope some day to change that. And who are you, then, Frosttouched?"

[Arcran]

Where are my manners. Marcus Ticker, the boy states, before gesturing towards his doppleganger, who was in the middle of greeting Katie. And that is Quicksilver, my, uh, friend, he adds. We decided we may as well both try to win this. More fun that way, after all. Marcus pauses for a moment, eyes lingering above Angus' head. Primes from different generations would have no reason to attack one another beyond desire for their Cryptid, but he had no idea what the other gods expected. In any case, offering the boy a tidbit of information he would soon learn himself was valuable; of the six other Primes here, Marcus considered himself allies with three of them. If he was able to gain the favor of the Ground Prime and, apparently by extension, the Dark Prime, that would put him in a very cozy place.

Do you know about Varro's relation with your patron, Sir...? Marcus asks, trailing off to give Angus the chance to fill in his name. He wasn't sure if the man was a knight, but some idle flattery never hurt anybody.

[Jacior]

Dominic watches Marcus with a look of pure agitation as he was ignored by the prick of a trainer. "Wow, you're not gonna even try to pretend to be civil huh? I guess I can be the mature one then. Sorry how everything went down in the ruins. Not that I'm alone in that blame. I didn't know what size shoe you wore, so I had to get a voucher. Should be good in any place that really sells shoes." He slipped his backpack off while he was talking and drew out a slightly wrinkly voucher and receipt.

Dominic blinks on his symbolsight to take in the surroundings, eyeing the other Primes in the room. The biggest guy in the room was Fairy. Huh. The world likes its jokes. He absently smiles at Tiny at the thought as he looks around. "I didn't know Quicksilver did illusions now."

[Arcran]

I'm sorry, did I say something to offend you? Marcus says, looking at Dominic in mock confusion. Still, I appreciate the voucher, Marcus says, taking the piece of paper, while silently musing to himself. Not that I'm alone in that blame? On what planet?

Regardless, Marcus does his best to keep his face emotionless as he speaks to Dominic. For a minute he thinks of correcting the other boy, until a thought crosses his mind. Yes, illusions. Refracting light and all that. Rather effective, if I do say so myself, Marcus says, grinning. I don't suppose you'll tell me what Deadshot's new toys do?

Since we're lying about Quicksilver's powers...
Guile for Dominic: [roll0]
Guile for Angus: [roll1]
Guile for Katie: [roll2]

[Jacior]

Dominic just shakes his head at Marcus, sighing. "You're the one being a jerk right now, not me. I'm not playing the game this time, ya smug prick." He quirks an eyebrow at Marcus when he talks about the 'illusions' that Quicksilver could do. "Sure, when you stop thinking I'm an idiot that can't tell you're a bad liar. So who's your big friend over there?"

[Arcran]

His name's Tiny, Marcus replies with a smug smirk, assuming that Dominic will think he's lying again. And Dominic, I've been nothing but polite to you, as always. I'd appreciate it if you waited at least five minutes before accusing me of things this time around, Marcus adds, before pointedly looking at Dominic's chest. I like your new vest, by the way. Red is a nice color on you. Although...

Marcus slides his hands into the front pocket of his sweatshirt, a wide grin on his face.

It's a bit of a funny choice though, don't you think?

[Prehysterical]

"Angus. Just Angus," he says for the second time that day... by the gods, that same hour. "And aye, I know all too well about Varro's position as Smith..." His tone grows disapproving.

Before he can say more, however, it becomes clear that Dominic has some prior history with Marcus and, from the sounds of it, it is not genial. Angus notes with interest the crack in Marcus's smile as he tries to brush off Dom's comment. More to this "Quicksilver" than it seems... Another Guardian, perhaps? It wasn't so Farfetch'd; Veil was living proof of such trickery.

Finally tiring of the squabbling, Angus interjects between them sarcastically, "Nice to know that Varro doesn't even need to try to have us at each other's throats!" Blowing through his nose to regain control of his temper, Angus continues, "Everyone here is aware that there are larger stakes than the championship, yes?" He looks pointedly at Dom before his eyes shift toward Jean.

He doesn't know any of these others. Who's to say that one of them isn't an agent of Jamba wearing a friendly face?

[CosmicOccurence]

Katie raised her eyebrows at the two of you. Arceus help me, I'd forgotten how bad of a relationship you two had. You're both wonderful around everyone else. Marcus, stop being so passive aggressive. You know what I'm talking about. Dominic, cool your jets. She rolled her eyes as if to say 'boys' before opening her mouth to say something.

She was interrupted by Tiny barreling into her giving her a massive hug. Jean and Puck followed a bit more sedately, though Angus was acutely aware that Jean was on edge as she glanced at the two men beside you.

KATTTIIIEEEEE Tiny squealed! I haven't seen you in ages he said, even more over-the-top than normal. Oh, and you must be Dominic, Tiny said, as if he'd just seen you. He extended one ham sized hand to you, eyes glittering.

Nice to see we're all friends here, Puck said with unusual sarcasm. He seemed more irked by the others at the squabble between Marcus and Dominic. He usually didn't delve into this particular brand of speaking.

Tin-man here is right, Jean said with a smile at the Knight. I think most of us can agree that something fishy is going on here. The fact that Bishops were allowed into the prelims at all says loads about Varro's character.
She idly twirlled one of her knives in her left hand.

Words appear above Jean's head, obviously made by Veil's illusions. However, nobody else seemed to be able to see them, meaning that he could now select who was affected by his illusions and who couldn't see them at all.

They're friends. I've met most at one point or another and I can vouch for them. Nice to see you. If you need to get a message to me without the others noticing, Veil and I read lips.

Any news I should know?

[Arcran]

Sorry Katie, Marcus says, seeming genuinely embarrassed for a moment. But Katie is right, the past is in the past. Let's try to be friends, Marcus says with a forced grin, extending a hand clad in a thick purple glove to Dominic.

When Jean mentions Jamba Bishops being present, however, Marcus' demeanor changes rapidly. Jamba was here? Where? Marcus asks, looking between the other Trainers. Did any make it up here? he adds a moment later, looking around at the other Primes, far more serious than he had been a moment before. If that's the case, we need to be on guard. We should talk about this somewhere more private though, Marcus says, idly tapping his head as he looks around, focusing on Jean and Katie. They were by far the biggest group here, which would draw suspicion no matter what.

Marcus focuses his mind for a second, before going to Q's chat room. My apologies, but it's time to put my paranoia to rest: Can we trust Angus and Dominic? Have either of you told Dominic or Angus my Teller theory? And do they know about what I did at the power plant? he asks, hoping that the two would have picked up on his clue to enter the chatroom. While he had no reason to not trust the two, by the same token he had absolutely not reason to trust them either.

[Prehysterical]

Fortunately, everyone else seems to want the spectacle to end just as quickly. Angus isn't sure if Marcus's worry is just another act, but the surprising ability of Jean and Veil helps him relax. It takes him a few seconds to wrap his head around the idea, but his lips move silently in greeting.

Nice to see you too, he mouthed with a wink. His manner becomes grim again as he also states, Dom thinks that my sister is on the airship.

[Jacior]

Dominic takes Tiny's hand hardily, a little miffed at the size difference but mentally shrugging. He seemed like an ok guy. "Hi, yeah, I'm Dominic. Or... Dom I guess if you want. But not Nick." That was a nickname he didn't care for. Blegh. To Puck he gives a slight eyeroll. "Come on, Puck, it's a little... raw antagonism and rivalry, nothing to get worked up over. " He hadn't gotten to meet Puck at the academy, so it was a little... offputting maybe. "Sorry..." To Jean, who Dominic did not know the name of or anything he shrugs. "Yeah no, Varro w- Uh... Yeah he's not a cool dude. Leave it at that in mixed company."

When Marcus puts out his hand, Dominic looks at it like he'd rather be touching a muk. "I... guess. If because my sister asked." He shook the hand with probably too much force and then pulling him in for a bro half-hug. "Me and Katie took out a couple Bishops before we came up here. I doubt naming them means anything really." He looks over at Katie hoping he wasn't sharing too much. "We uh... should really check everyone here's hands."

[Arcran]

When Dominic takes Marcus' hand, he might notice that the glove he was wearing felt a bit like a water balloon. However, when he squeezed down with more force than was strictly necessary, that water balloon became rather solid, and didn't yield an inch. Marcus stumbled awkwardly into the bro hug, the expression on his face saying everything.

At Dominic's remark, Marcus looks slightly confused. Check our hands? Care to elaborate?

[Jacior]

"Anyone here really. For rings. And not the ones that we got for the Workshop." Dominic tries to express it's important without revealing why. Who knew if anyone had any like super hearing or something.

[CosmicOccurence]

Oooooh, and you like jewelry too? Tiny trilled at Dominic. Earrings are more my style, but I'm more than willing to start wearing rings.

Katie rolled her eyes. Tiny. Stop. Her voice was exacerbated. Dominic. I'm sorry for him. He's a little bit over the top in case you hadn't noticed. She rolled her eyes and shoved Tiny away, who sighed forlornly but acquiesced.

As for rings ... is there any particular reason? I hope you don't mind, but I rather enjoy being in the know. One of the perks of being a prime really. Important people seem a lot more willing to trust us. I suppose I've gotten used to it. Am I spoiled? He wondered in his normal happy-go-lucky stream-of-consciousness style.


Jean's eyebrows flew up as you mouthed the words at her. Smoky letters quickly formed above her head as Veil continued the communication for her. It'll take me a few days to scout out which routes are less secure than others. Once I get a read on the place though, the two of us should be competent enough to get her out so long as we don't run into Varro himself. Any idea why he wants her?

And unless you let me know otherwise, I'll keep this from the others. It isn't my place, and I know that you don't know them well.

And ... I'm sorry Angus. We'll get her back.

[Arcran]

Marcus gives a curt nod at the mention of rings.

There are some items that make it possible to hide ones nature. We, in the past, saw Jamba's Primes using rings to accomplish that, Marcus states, looking around the room. However, I don't see any of them among the people here. Marcus quickly runs through the Primes he knows in his head, before looking to the rest of the group, keeping his voice low.

Assuming none posses abilities like Jean's, we are looking for Bug, Steel, Dragon, Fighting, Fire or Rock. I can confirm that none of the others are present, Marcus states, glancing around the room as he attempts to tell if anybody lacking a Symbol had prominent jewelry. Jeff, you've some experience with basic alchemy, correct? Is there an easy way to identify special items?

[Prehysterical]

Angus loses track of the rest of the room, focusing on his silent conversation with Jean and Veil.

Dom said that it's not Varro who wants her, but the Queen, for some reason.

If this introduction is anything to go by, I'd like to hold our peace until they've proven their mettle. Varro may know we're here, but he may not be aware of what we know and don't know.

He smiles back at Jean. Thank you, Jean. I swear, if you manage to get my sister free, I will personally forge a ring for that finger of yours.

[Jacior]

Dominic blushes a little it over all of Tiny's fussing over him. "I mean... Uh.. I was... that is..." Normally there wasn't a lot that could get Dominic flustered, but apparently Tiny managed to accomplish it. Why could he never be as cool as he wanted to be? "It's ok Katie. He's... uh... words fail me in a good way." Dominic's blush darkens before he clears his throat.

"I uh, can confirm that our... illustrious host may be in the business of jewelry." Dominic says awkwardly. "Yeah... I don't see Sigmund here... I'd break his mukking face in.... I can say that Fire isn't here, and... Dragon probably is... Not out in the open anyway." He glances over at Angus. "I have stats on a few of us, about 6 months old, for all it's worth. As well as a couple general insights into Jamba's plans. I'm not sure insights is the right word."

[CosmicOccurence]

Well, Alchemy is about as logical as you lot, Jeff said with a shrug. Sometimes its easy to tell at a distance if some item has special properties, but generally the makers avoid being flashy unless it suits them. However, inscriptions are pretty common in alchemy using the symbols of Unown.

Doesn't mean they can't be hidden. Despite not having any inscriptions on it, it's entirely possible that the underside of the floor is inscribed,
and that this whole place could turn out to be burning our shoes with acid or something.

As Marcus glanced around, he noticed several people with extra rings on. While he didn't know their names yet, he would soon find them out. Jeff, of course, had a few rings on his fingers, as item crafters are wont to do. Additinoally, Marissa, Pheleos, Tyre, and Ulene all have extra rings on. You were too far away to tell about Lukas, Demiere, Kiara, Peter, or Katya though.

Tiny seemed flustered at this whole encounter, including by the glares that Katie was giving him. Well, even if things do get hairy, I should be able to get us to the ground safely. I'm pretty sure Tink's walls could form a staircase, though she's never made one quite so big. Although I suppose most of you have Pokemon big enough to carry you around ... He sighed at the thought.

But baby Pokemon are just too cute to not train! he said. It's worth the loss of mobility!

Jean flushed for no seeming reason, as she obviously wasn't invested in the whole Tiny-Dominic interaction. In fact, she seemed to be staring rather intently at Angus.


Come now, the words above her formed. You haven't even taken me on a date and you're already proposing? How very old fashioned Angus. He cheeks were red though, and she seemed a bit hesitant about making the joke considering the circumstances.


Katie seemed about to say something, but the doors on the far side of the room opened. In walked six figures. While five seemed interesting enough, your attention was inexorably drawn to the man leading the way. He average sized, with platinum blond hair that framed his face perfectly. He wore a pale creme suit that fit him perfectly, and he walked as though the presence of everyone around him weren't anything more than caterpie on the ground he walked on. Despite the fact that he was so clearly Julius Varro, no sign hung above his head displaying the mark of water. None had to. His presence had gravity enough. Still, Jeff, the only non prime in your group of eight seemed more affected than the rest of you. His knees began shaking at the very sight of the man.

Good afternoon, Varro said when he reached the microphone. The five other figures standing behind him fanned out to form a line. As you make your way to the benches, let me be the first to invite you this year's Item Workshop celebration. He gave a wide smile as confetti seemed to appear from thin air around you. On closer inspection, it seemed to be releasing from near invisible beams of light coming from the ceiling that reminded you a lot of Pokeballs.

I do love confetti, Puck sighed, as Katie rolled her eyes and stomped off to the benches.


The list of participants is in the OOC, let me know if you're planning to sit by anyone in particular.

The five figures are
- A young woman with huge bushy hair. She's wearing a pink/purple polka-dotted dress.
- An older, but still muscular man. He wore glasses and carried a cane, indicating he was blind. He had a magnificently waxed beard/moustache combo though.
- A man in his 30s with blonde hair wearing a shirt and vest that made him look an awful lot like a bartender.
- A tall man with impeccably stylish red coat who vaguely looked like a model
- A toned woman in a razor cut jet black jumpsuit. Blond hair slicked back, headphones hanging around her neck.


The old guy with a cane was a pretty famous adventurer before he was blinded by a Tentacruel about twenty years ago. There were news stories about it. Known as Ibael.

The style guy was a model. Still is a model really. Aster Van Peile. Comes from Sinnoh, but loves it here


The bartender is an old pseudo-gym leader from Kanto. Goes by Dale and loves drinking.

[Arcran]

Marcus frowns as he looks around the room, spotting far too many auxiliary rings. There were only a handful of Primes he didn't know, but between the wide range of rings and the distance, it was impossible to tell, who if anybody, was disguising their symbols. Still, it was rather comforting that the others seemed to be suspicious as well; at the very least, it would be a little bit more difficult for Varro to take advantage at him.

At Tink's escape plan, Marcus can't help but think that the odds of Varro letting them anywhere near an exit if they wanted to escape was next to impossible, but that seemed a bit pedantic to bring up.

When Varro appears, Marcus' eyes narrow as he tries to take in every detail about the man, anything that might crack his facade and reveal his age, some flaw, anything, but finds nothing. That fact irks Marcus to no small amount, mostly since it's a level of perfection that he'll never be able to achieve. He starts slightly as the confetti appears, before grabbing a small handful to inspect later, while mentally taking as many notes as possible on the Pokeball-looking dispensers. When Varro gestures to the bleachers, Marcus' eyes scan the room before he looks back to his companions.

We'll catch up later, Marcus says. If anything happens, you know how to reach me, Marcus says with a pointed look at Jean, Katie and Tiny. Jeff, want to come with? he adds almost as an afterthought, hoping to keep the younger Shooting Star from falling too far out of his element.

With that, Marcus makes his way to find a seat close to Lukas, Demiere, Kiara, Peter, or Katya, preferably within spitting distance of all of them, all while keeping Q's Chatroom open in the back of his mind.

[Jacior]

Dominic can't help getting excited at the announcement. Despite trying to play it cool, this was one of the most awesome events in the entirety of Hayle and he was getting to participate. So he sort of giddly hopped over to the benches, grabbing Katie's and Tiny's hands and tugging them along. "C'mon, just cause he's evil doesn't mean we can't have fun." It was the stupidest thing to possibly say, but he did honestly believe that. Plus... he still wanted to win. There was no way they could all take down the wailord, at least before the contest was over, so he wanted to try and win. Marcus was the top dog, with Katie close behind. He didn't know how anyone else fought but it was worth the effort to see.

Dominic doesn't pick a particular seat near anyone at all, except maybe Katie and Tiny.

[Prehysterical]

Angus smiles wryly at her. It may happen to be old-fashioned, but we are involved in a war. And if I had to choose a wife, I'd rather have someone that can fight at my side. A far cry from what he originally thought he wanted, but the roofrat has nestled herself firmly in his mind.

The moment is ruined by his arrival. Angus knows that arrogance all too well. He has seen it in his own brother, only this particular ego had had a thousand years to inflate and grow fat on its own genius. How does he stay so young? Whatever the reason, Angus is not fooled: this was a man who had no regard for human life. The young knight bristles in his armor, but keeps his jaws shut together. There is no doubt that the five lackeys behind Varro are competent trainers in their own right, even if Angus knows of none of them.

Dominic's comment, as well-intended as it might be, stops Angus for a moment. Had the other young man not been literally rubbing his victory in an opponent's face earlier and extolling death to Jamba? Was Dom not aware of Varro's true nature? That didn't seem possible, not with Dom's knowledge of Angus himself. It would be worth having a conversation later...

For the moment, Angus sits down beside Jean without a word, all the flirting and joviality gone as his expression becomes stony.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus

You got close enough to all of them to tell that they didn't have rings on, and were quickly approached by Peter, who wore the traditional hoenn outfit. A simple unadorned top and sensible pants, most of it water and sandproof. Hoenn made the wild portions of Hayle look downright populous.

Pretty big group, he said to you and Jeff. Must be nice to have friends, but I suppose I did leave my home continent after all. This place is worth it though. Hoenn's got a lot going for it, but nothing like this.

Jeff chimed in, telling him how much he admired the contest scene in Hoenn, which had done something or other to do with fashion combat development in Sinnoh that had trickled into Kanto's ... well you get the picture. Peter seemed more of a battle type though and didn't openly appreciate the contest or fashion talk that Jeff was spouting off, mostly from nerves. He obviously thought Peter was normal, but based on those symbols coming from his back, he must be anything but.

Of course, Varro interrupted before you could get any further.

Dominic
You managed to grab a seat next to Katie, with Tiny on the other side of her. The girl whose name seemed to be Marissa. You all seem pretty close. One of the sad things about coming from a big city like Central is that you don't get much comradre with other trainers. It's all business there, especially when Varro has such a big hold on the commerce. My name's Marissa by the way, she held out a hand to you, something that struck you as odd considering how ... normal she looked. Maybe you were just hanging around too many children of gods or something, but her CSI Vermillion shirt left more of an impression than her. Katie and Tiny hadn't even noticed she'd sat next to you.

Of course, Varro started talking before you could even shake her hand.

Angus
Well, let's just get our way through this deathtrap that we've found ourselves in before we make any lasting commitments. After all, you might learn that I snore in my sleep or something. Or we might be dead. It's the little things that get in the way,
you know?

You found a seat next to Pheleos and Genivere, who couldn't be further apart appearance wise but seemed to be good friends. The Gothic albino Pheleos gave you a long look over but didn't say anything, and gave her partner with the spiked red hair a significant look. Maybe in a less public place huh? Genivere told her, and Pheleos nodded approval.

Of course, you didn't have a chance to respond to them before Varro started talking again.

All of You
You are all competent trainers, skilled in the use of potions, held items, and possibly even evolution stones. It's simply part of how you made it as far as you have. Others, such as our visitors from Zahaard, may know some metallurgy or alchemy. Others who have visited the labs in Central may know something of robotics or cyborg technology.

However, this is a playground beyond your wildest imaginations. Here is where I dream up things that seem almost like the magic of olde. This place is a haeven for experimentation, innovation, and exploration into the unknown as I plumb the depths of what is possible in this realm ... or in others.

He paused there for dramatic effect, before moving on.

But many of you care very little for the methods behind my madness. You are here on a mission. A mission to procure the equipment that will help you achieve your wildest dreams. And I'm happy to say that I can oblige your every wish.

Here at the Item workshop, you will have the opportunity to compete for fabulous prizes. In order to get them though, you must accrue 'points' by playing in one of five of my Workshop Battles, led by my Workshop Brains, the five figures behind him bowed. There is a shop at the battlefield you'll visit tomorrow when the games begin in earnest where you can cash in these points.

There's the Battle Factory, where you will battle with rental Pokemon. The Battle Arena, where you must select your Pokemon carefully to ensure victory in a double battle. The Battle Academy, where you will compete in the traditional Pokken battles of Armedius. The Battle Gym,
where you can play the particularly nasty game of Blastball. And finally the Battle Court, where you with Pokemon that can be ridden joust in the Zahaardian style.

Win enough in one facility, and you'll earn the honor of fighting my lovely Workshop Brains. Beat them and earn a particularly special prize plus an abundance of points. You will have three days of battling beginning tomorrow to make your mark.

However, even for those of you who fail to gain traction here, among the best of the best, each of you will have the opportunity to pick up a special item from the workshop counter. A Mega-Stone oriented specifically for your starter Pokemon that you picked up from your first gym all those years ... or months ago. A small buzz broke out in the crowd at this, as Mega Stones, especially outside the standard varieties, were quite rare. Varro seemed content to let the chatter happen for a second, as he turned to confer with the blind Frontier brain behind him.

[Prehysterical]

Jean's chiding just gets a wink and a smile from the young knight. It's also the little things that you notice.

Sitting down beside two women, Angus is uncomfortably aware of the intense inspection that the long-sleeved woman gives him. The redhead's comment only increases his worry. Are they agent of Jamba? Better watch my back..."

He sits and listens through Varro's honey and lies, noting how everyone seems to be hanging on every word. Oh, I definitely care about your methods, Varro... Leaving two young boys to die in the desert is not a sin easily forgiven. The Battle Court seems like his best chance; Angus liked to think that there was no one more qualified to joust here than himself. Still, three days was not a lot of time to try and find his sister. And there was the matter of these Mega Stones... it seemed too good to be true. There had to be a catch...

If you come anywhere near Gladia, Varro, I'll ring that skull of yours with my hammer...

[Arcran]

You know how it is. A bunch of people, all around your age taking the Gym Challenge? It's hard not to make at least a few friends, Marcus says, trying to play it off as less than it was, despite the fact that it likely wouldn't work on Peter. After all, if he had Symbolsight as well, he already knew there was more to their connection than that. Before he could get into battling conversation with Peter, Varro interrupted.

Marcus does allow himself a very small grin as Varro speaks. He was, perhaps, the singular person here that actually did care about the methods behind Varro's madness. After all, if he could get more of the distilled Type energy, well, who knows what else he could do to his Pokemon? What would happen if it was applied to Quicksilver? And how much did he need for his personal pet project?

Fortunately, it was rather simple for Marcus to determine which style of battling he would pursue. His team was built around double-battling superiority to an extent, and Marcus intended to capitalize upon that. He needed to get every point possible. Next to Marcus Quicksilver was looking similarly excited, although for a much different reason. While his Sculptures were rather mediocre in combat, an arena where one could rent Pokemon would remove that weakness completely, and potentially make it possible for them to increase their point gain considerably.

Marcus' plotting stops for a moment, however, when he hears Varro's final offer. A Mega Stone for your starter. Lately Gelver had been slacking slightly in combat, and a Mega Stone had the potential to turn that around completely. Marcus, who was previously interested from a purely clinical perspective, allows himself to lean forward slightly, a thin smirk on his face. For a second his paranoia is all but forgotten, replaced instead with dreams of how powerful a Mega Greninja could be.

Sorry this took so long, was trying to figure out my Chronicling. Let me know if I made a math error.

AP TRACKING
Start the Scene with 8, as I had one Drained by Ace Trainer. I also have 2 AP just for Chronicler from Studies in Scarlet, which I can read for free because of the Lore Badge.

Symbolsight: 1 AP

9 remaining for Chronicler.

Chronicle this part of Item Workshop: 1 AP
Chronicle Jean and Veil: 2 AP
Chronicle Angus: 1 AP
Chronicle Varro: 1 AP
Chronicle Peter: 1 AP
Chronicle Ibael: 1 AP
Chronicle Aster Van Peile: 1 AP
Chronicle Dale: 1 AP

And I believe that runs me out until next Scene.

[CosmicOccurence]

Varro grinned at the effect he seemed to have on you all. Now, a few housekeeping measures. First, outside of the battles for the workshop, there will be no violence or battling between participants. I don't care how much you insult each other, but do it in five days.

Secondly, any door, corridor, or ladder marked with red is strictly off limits. Keep to the areas marked with yellow. Failure to abide by either rule will lead to me ejecting you from my ship without any of the lovely items you might acquire here. Simple enough, but somehow every year there are a few trainers who try to break them despite my reputation.

And with that, I will open us up to our evening festivities. In addition to the lovely tidbits of food and music provided by our very own Primarina from Alola, take this time to get acquainted with your fellow competitors. Myself and my fellow Brains will be around, so please feel free to come say hello. I always enjoy meeting some of the most important trainers the region has to offer.

After all, some of you are practically the embodiment of Hayle's future. It seems a waste to not meet my successors. And with that, more confetti fell, a banner hung in midair proclaiming the Item Workshop, and a television crew that you hadn't noticed before started packing up their materials. Music began to waft over you all, and tables of food emerged from the floor.

Really this is just a time for you all to talk to anybody you'd like, do some questioning, get the feel for things. I don't have a specific goal so it can move on whenever. And if some of you want to go to bed, I can just move you on to tomorrow's battles.


So here's how I'm dividing it:
Weak Item: 1 point
Moderate Item: 2 points
Powerful Item: 3 points
(note that the actual system is more complex with bigger numbers and more specific prices. This is less work for everyone though).

Assume that you will automatically get 2 points just for hanging around. You'll get another point for beating a normal trainer. And you'll get 2 points for beating a brain. You must beat a normal trainer in a specific arena before you can challenge the brain. I'm thinking two matches only as to not drag things down (heck, I may trim it down to just the brain battle depending, but we'll see).

I may also be open to some live battle via discord and the maps if we can find a conviennet time if that would speed up the battles.

Note that if you don't want to do the battles and focus on sneakign around, that's fine too.

[Arcran]

Marcus frowns at Varro's comment about off-limits. From his wording, it was rather ambiguous if it only applied if he went out of bounds, but he didn't particularly want to test that theory with Quicksilver's Sculptures. They would, most likely, get him kicked off all the same.

Still, that did very little to dull Marcus' excitement about the evening. After sparing Angus a quick glance, Marcus stands up, before offering a hand to Peter.

It was lovely meeting you. If you're free later, I have the feeling we both have quite a few questions for one another, Marcus says with a knowing smile. After (very briefly) making sure that Jeff would be alright, Marcus makes a beeline towards Varro, even as 'Marcus' makes his way over towards the Factory Brain.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus frowns at Varro's comment about off-limits. From his wording, it was rather ambiguous if it only applied if he went out of bounds, but he didn't particularly want to test that theory with Quicksilver's Sculptures. They would, most likely, get him kicked off all the same.

Still, that did very little to dull Marcus' excitement about the evening. After sparing Angus a quick glance, Marcus stands up, before offering a hand to Peter.

It was lovely meeting you. If you're free later, I have the feeling we both have quite a few questions for one another, Marcus says with a knowing smile. After (very briefly) making sure that Jeff would be alright, Marcus makes a beeline towards Varro, even as 'Marcus' makes his way over towards the Factory Brain.

Peter shakes your hands and gives you a similar platitude, but clearly understands that you want to be other places. Meanwhile, Jeff had stripped to his underwear and was busy having a conversation with one of the guards about dress code.

Quicksilver
As 'Marcus' approached the girl who lead the factory, polka dot dress and all, her eyes lit up. Oh its one of the twins!
My name is Leila, the Brain of the Battle Factory. But I assume you already knew that.


Marcus
Ice, Julius said as you approached. Welcome welcome. I must admit that I didn't expect for you to leave Armedius for this little piece of entertainment, but after you threw away that lovely phone of mine, I had a much harder time keeping track of what you were up to.

Up close he seemed even more put together than from afar. He was the type of person who radiated aggressive confidence, who just was. In some ways he reminded you of Koon. In other ways he seemed much more like Rosso, just without the muscles. This was a man used to getting his way.

And the first thing he did was extend a hand. Julius Varro, at your service. Now may I ask what on earth could cause you to make such a beeline for me? Surely you'd like to follow your Mustelid friend's example of begin scouting the competition?

[Arcran]

Quicksilver
Nope, Quicksilver replies, his voice surprisingly flat and monotone. Tell me, what kind of options are there at the Factory? Do you have every Pokemon? the Weavile asks, eyes quite literally glistening.

Marcus
If we're referring to one another by titles, it's a pleasure to meet you Water, Marcus says. Still, he can't help but feel a little pleased when it's confirmed that Varro was trying to track them through their phones. Ah, yes. After myself and the others made our little trip to Zahard I couldn't seem to find my phone again. Strange, right? he adds, trying to read Varro's face. Just how angry was ancient Water Prime about losing Tesla?

In any case, I have a friend to scout the competition for me, as you so kindly noticed. I honestly just wanted to meet you. I've heard so much about you from so many people, that I needed to see if you would live up to the stories. Your Cryptid, I must admit, does leave the legends far behind. Does he have a name? Can he hear us? Marcus asks, his curiosity getting the better of him. While he knew Cryptids had almost unlimited flexibility, he found it difficult to believe that having a city built within you wouldn't harm the creature in any way.

[Prehysterical]

Glad that Varro's spiel is finally over, Angus stands and decides to put a little distance between himself and the pair of women sitting next to him. He allows his eyes to wander over the gathered trainers, picking out a few that he at least knows the measure of. The robe of the young woman from the Order of the Crashing Waves is impossible for him to miss. Father had always resented their presence within the Claw, but they had been serving just as long as the Flaming Lance and Zahaard brooked no feud between them. If she had made it this far, then she must be a powerful aquamancer.

It is with delight that Angus's eyes fall on a broad man in the uniform of the Ironwall Mercenaries. He steps forward in a friendly manner, extending his hand and forearm out to the man. "Well met, shieldbearer. It's nice to see one of Ironblade's lads here. Someone who knows how to block as much as how to swing, eh? I am Angus."

[CosmicOccurence]

Quicksilver
Well technically we don't have any Pokemon dearie. She smiled sweetly. The goal is to allow total customization, and it would be a tad excessive what with all the combinations of training types there are out there. We'd need about a million Pikachus just to cover the potential combinations for that one Pokemon alone.

No, they're all highly realistic data-mons run by an artificial intelligence software. They couldn't hurt a fly ... but it will certainly look
like they will.

Marcus
Leviathan is a Cryptid like any other. He speaks yes, though rarely with his actual vocal cords these days. We prefer a more ... private form of communication. You can imagine how loud his speaking would be, what with all of us inside of him.

He narrowed his eyes, obviously trying to consider something. In any case, 1,000 years is a long time. The loyal devotion between Cryptids and Primes only enhances as you grow older. You don't really notice until you're 300 or so, but eventually you even start to think the same things. Our minds are all but bonded at this point.

It's a bit like being a Doduo I imagine, just less comical. His eyes lingered on you, trying to pick up any reaction he could from the free admission to something you already knew.

Angus
The name's Tyre, the mercenary said, grasping your arm with a firm grip. You know old Irons?

Not totally sure what I'm doing up here to be honest. I feel much more at home on solid ground, but the boss wanted me to get some items what with the roads getting more and more dangerous. He rolled his shoulders. Not sure what's in the air these days, but everything in this region is just feeling stirred up.

Ever since that power plant explosion in Central, the roads have been crawling with Rangers and Jamba grunts. Not a good time to be in this line of work I tell you.

[Prehysterical]

"Aye, met him on my first caravan out of Zahaard. Every bit as the stories say."

Angus grimaces. So, this bandit and Jamba problem is encompassing all of Hayle. I was afraid of that...

"It's not a good time for anyone, Tyre." He leans in to whisper, "Don't trust Varro. I suspect that he has a role in what is going on." Pulling back and resuming normal conversation, Angus asks, "Now, what was that about a power plant explosion?"

[Arcran]

Quicksilver

Oh, Quicksilver says, trying to process the full sentence. Marcus had talked about artificial intelligence more than once, but the technology of the modern age still escaped him on occasion. I suppose that makes sense. I don't suppose there's any way that we could take a look at that software, is there? Quicksilver asks, a slight grin on his face. After all, this sounded like exactly the kind of system that could improve his sculpture's capabilities.

Marcus

1,000 years, really? Marcus says, putting a minimal amount of effort into seeming surprised. It wasn't as if Varro would believe his lies anyways. You'll have to share your diet with me. You look great for being, well, older than the region, Marcus states. He doesn't spend too much time pondering the fact that their minds were melded; while it would make he and Quicksilver almost invincible, it also sounded as if it was something that took far longer than he had.

I suppose you check the news quite often, don't you? Marcus asks, hoping that he wasn't about to make a huge mistake. I heard a power plant in Central exploded. It wasn't one of yours, was it?

[CosmicOccurence]

"Aye, met him on my first caravan out of Zahaard. Every bit as the stories say."

Angus grimaces. So, this bandit and Jamba problem is encompassing all of Hayle. I was afraid of that...

"It's not a good time for anyone, Tyre." He leans in to whisper, "Don't trust Varro. I suspect that he has a role in what is going on." Pulling back and resuming normal conversation, Angus asks, "Now, what was that about a power plant explosion?"

We aren't sure. It wasn't Jamba, that's for sure since the group we ran into after was pissed ... maybe just because they got beaten to it?

I just hope we don't have another group ready to raise a ruckus. I don't know what Chronos is up to these days, but his region is falling apart I tell you. He rolled his eyes, which was rather uncharacteristic for a trainer to do. Until recently, the league had been something of an immaculate pristine entity, above any sort of criticism.

[CosmicOccurence]

Quicksilver


Certainly! It's my own design, and I'm hoping to revolutionize the pokemon battling scene. Imagine the league if everyone could be a trainer! And no actual violence. We wouldn't need Pokemon at all in fact.

I know Varro wants to try and see if we can make my creations more than just digital recreations, but I just don't know how we'd get the technology to switch between types and moves on the fly. The amount of raw power that would take ... but even he says robots like that won't happen anytime soon ... She seemed quite down about this, but perked up when Marissa walked up.

That does indeed sound like an interesting world, doesn't it? she said. Though isn't it a bit blasphemous of you to suggest that everyone should have that kind of power? It would defeat the whole purpose of the league, and we wouldn't want that now would we? she said, a pleasant smile on her face.


Marcus
Varro's eyes narrowed. Ah yes, that was unfortunate wasn't it? I've heard the local hospitals don't have enough electricity to run properly anymore. It was quite the producer of energy, second only to the power plant in my own compound. I would hate to think that some freedom fighters were willing to toss aside the lives of innocents for idealism.

He leaned in just a bit, to look at you more closely. Though I must admit, anyone intelligent enough to put that plan together ... well, I would just say that they would certainly have a place in my corporation. Good help is tough to find, but I think it would be just divine to combine forces with whomever that may be. Wouldn't you say?

[Jacior]

Dominic was more than lost in dreams of his own grandeur. Days of battling, a mega stone, Mega-Arlo, a chance to boost his power through the raw effort of beating those above him in the rankings. It was beyond what he could have hoped and by Arceus he'd dreamed a lot about the Workshop. If only it wasn't the scumbag Varro who was running it and he couldn't just enjoy himself. A gloom settled over his still cheerful mood, leaving him running at a level just above mellow but below the bouncing in his seat he'd been doing. After letting everyone get up and mill about, he hops to his feet. "Now who's the real competition here... Hmmm..."

With a slow lap around the gathering hall floor, Dominic decided that he'd talk with the most obviously cool of Varro's brains and walked up to the blind man with the imeccable facial hair. "So... if I I had to make a guess... you're the brain for the Battle Arena? How far wrong am i?"

[Arcran]

Quicksilver
'Marcus' grins softly at the woman's comment about changing types on the fly. For some reason, he felt that she had a very prominent role in the creation of a certain assistant. Either that, or Varro was using his lackey's tech behind their backs. It was an interesting conundrum, to say the least.

However, before Quicksilver could make a sarcastic comment, he was so rudely interrupted by Marissa.

And what exactly do you think the purpose of the League is? Quicksilver asks, an amused smirk on his face. Creating factions like Jamba by expanding the gap between Trainers and everybody else? Quicksilver asks, his tone calm despite the provoking question. He'd technically fought against the League longer than anyone else, and old grudges don't die so easily.

Marcus
Freedom fighters? Marcus asks, clearly surprised. That's a rather noble term for people that would destroy a power plant. Most people would have said terrorist, Marcus says, a bit confused by Varro's word choice there. Was it for his own benefit, to make him seem less confrontational towards Marcus?

Either way, I can't imagine taking down a power plant would take much work. There's no reason for one to have much security, right? Marcus asks, not wasting one last chance to taunt Varro. A few Ground Types to make sure that any passing Joltik don't chew through the cables should be all that's needed, right?

Either way, Marcus says, sliding his glasses up his nose. I'm sure a man as intelligent as yourself could get in contact with the architect. What's the old saying? 'Every man has his price?' It couldn't hurt to make him or her an offer, right? Marcus states. To be frank, Marcus wasn't sure whether or not he'd even consider the offer, but it could be a good way to get a better look at Varro's operations. Of course, Varro would likely assume that was exactly what Marcus was doing, making the whole thing rather moot.

In any case, sorry for taking us to such dour conversation. I was wondering how many points it takes to get a backstage pass. After all, it's not every day one gets to see actual magic at work. For the first time in the entire conversation, Marcus was being completely honest. Personal opinions of Varro aside, he did have a huge academic interest in what the man was able to accomplish. With even a tenth of Varro's knowledge of both alchemy or Cryptids, Marcus could quite literally change the world.

[CosmicOccurence]

Quicksilver
'Marcus' grins softly at the woman's comment about changing types on the fly. For some reason, he felt that she had a very prominent role in the creation of a certain assistant. Either that, or Varro was using his lackey's tech behind their backs. It was an interesting conundrum, to say the least.

However, before Quicksilver could make a sarcastic comment, he was so rudely interrupted by Marissa.

And what exactly do you think the purpose of the League is? Quicksilver asks, an amused smirk on his face. Creating factions like Jamba by expanding the gap between Trainers and everybody else? Quicksilver asks, his tone calm despite the provoking question. He'd technically fought against the League longer than anyone else, and old grudges don't die so easily.

Marcus
Freedom fighters? Marcus asks, clearly surprised. That's a rather noble term for people that would destroy a power plant. Most people would have said terrorist, Marcus says, a bit confused by Varro's word choice there. Was it for his own benefit, to make him seem less confrontational towards Marcus?

Either way, I can't imagine taking down a power plant would take much work. There's no reason for one to have much security, right? Marcus asks, not wasting one last chance to taunt Varro. A few Ground Types to make sure that any passing Joltik don't chew through the cables should be all that's needed, right?

Either way, Marcus says, sliding his glasses up his nose. I'm sure a man as intelligent as yourself could get in contact with the architect. What's the old saying? 'Every man has his price?' It couldn't hurt to make him or her an offer, right? Marcus states. To be frank, Marcus wasn't sure whether or not he'd even consider the offer, but it could be a good way to get a better look at Varro's operations. Of course, Varro would likely assume that was exactly what Marcus was doing, making the whole thing rather moot.

In any case, sorry for taking us to such dour conversation. I was wondering how many points it takes to get a backstage pass. After all, it's not every day one gets to see actual magic at work. For the first time in the entire conversation, Marcus was being completely honest. Personal opinions of Varro aside, he did have a huge academic interest in what the man was able to accomplish. With even a tenth of Varro's knowledge of both alchemy or Cryptids, Marcus could quite literally change the world.

Quicksilver

Marissa's smile is sweet. Why Marcus, you seem to be insinuating that the league isn't doing a good job at keeping order. Could it be that you'd like to see the league fall for the bad job that its doing in your eyes? If you aren't careful, somebody might just think that you're Jamba.

The brain seemed concerned by the conversation, but either she had orders to not interfere in arguments or didn't think it was her place, because she didn't step in.

The bottom line is that you can't trust everyone with Pokemon. There are those to evil or to incompetent to be able to use that power for a good cause.

Marcus

Whether Varro was surprised by you taking his bait or not, you couldn't tell. It seems you both were intent on the 'I'm going to look like everything is going to plan regardless of what happens' schtick for now.

Points aren't what I care about young Marcus, Julius said. I'm looking for those with skill, and those who can give my organization what it needs. Which right now happens to be sensitive ... technology taken from the power plant. Hence the security measures.

But for now, a simple show of force will do. Beat one of my Brains and you'll earn your backstage pass. And after that if you feel like joining the winning team, we can talk more then.

Though I would be careful. There's about four different factions at this little party, and quite a few would be quite upset if they saw you trying to make a move with me. In fact, I'm sure many of your allies will have some questions for you after this is through. He nodded to Tiny and Katie, who were casting concerned glances your way.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic was more than lost in dreams of his own grandeur. Days of battling, a mega stone, Mega-Arlo, a chance to boost his power through the raw effort of beating those above him in the rankings. It was beyond what he could have hoped and by Arceus he'd dreamed a lot about the Workshop. If only it wasn't the scumbag Varro who was running it and he couldn't just enjoy himself. A gloom settled over his still cheerful mood, leaving him running at a level just above mellow but below the bouncing in his seat he'd been doing. After letting everyone get up and mill about, he hops to his feet. "Now who's the real competition here... Hmmm..."

With a slow lap around the gathering hall floor, Dominic decided that he'd talk with the most obviously cool of Varro's brains and walked up to the blind man with the imeccable facial hair. "So... if I I had to make a guess... you're the brain for the Battle Arena? How far wrong am i?"

Why not wrong at all, the man said. For where else can teamwork truly shine than in a doubles battle? This nonsense of single battles in the rest of the league, it makes no sense. When in reality do people ever fight battles against just one opponent at a time?

Truly it is the test of a true trainer to succeed. Think you're up to it?

A few other trainers had wandered near to the man, including Genivere, the woman with spiked red hair and pistols equipped to shoot pokeballs. However, none of them approached the conversation yet.

[Arcran]

Quicksilver

Marissa's smile is sweet. Why Marcus, you seem to be insinuating that the league isn't doing a good job at keeping order. Could it be that you'd like to see the league fall for the bad job that its doing in your eyes? If you aren't careful, somebody might just think that you're Jamba.

The brain seemed concerned by the conversation, but either she had orders to not interfere in arguments or didn't think it was her place, because she didn't step in.

The bottom line is that you can't trust everyone with Pokemon. There are those to evil or to incompetent to be able to use that power for a good cause.

You do know how to make a good first impression. A few sentences in, and already lecturing about politics, Quicksilver says to Marissa. In any case, your argument is flawed from the get-go. Are you seriously telling me a one-on-one Pokemon battle is enough to establish morality? Are you seriously implying that an evil person is less capable, and is going to lose that fight? Quicsksilver asks, before giving a laugh that wasn't quite human. If that is the case, and one's moral compass decides one's Pokemon ability, why hasn't the League stamped out Jamba yet? Unless of course your implying the League is evil, and therefore just as incompetent as Jamba. I didn't peg you as one to say something so borderline treasonous.


Marcus

Whether Varro was surprised by you taking his bait or not, you couldn't tell. It seems you both were intent on the 'I'm going to look like everything is going to plan regardless of what happens' schtick for now.

Points aren't what I care about young Marcus, Julius said. I'm looking for those with skill, and those who can give my organization what it needs. Which right now happens to be sensitive ... technology taken from the power plant. Hence the security measures.

But for now, a simple show of force will do. Beat one of my Brains and you'll earn your backstage pass. And after that if you feel like joining the winning team, we can talk more then.

Though I would be careful. There's about four different factions at this little party, and quite a few would be quite upset if they saw you trying to make a move with me. In fact, I'm sure many of your allies will have some questions for you after this is through. He nodded to Tiny and Katie, who were casting concerned glances your way.

I'm sure that we will talk more, Marcus says with a respectful nod. And if a show of force is all it takes, I suppose I will be seeing you again rather soon, Marcus says with a confident grin. For now, I suppose I should assuage my allies fears.

With that, Marcus walks away, his grin vanishing rather quickly. Four factions? What exactly did that mean? League supporters, Jamba, and Marcus and his allies made a quick three, which begged the question of what the last faction was. Varro and his men? The various foreigners present? Something that he was missing? Or was Varro just trying to make him paranoid?

Either way, Marcus knew he needed to be on his guard. As he makes his way to Katie and Tiny, Marcus quickly taps into the chatroom, knowing that it was likely the only place he could safely talk to his allies on this ship. If Katie or Tiny was present, Marcus quickly begins to communicate in it.

Varro knows I orchestrated Tesla, although I don't know how many details he knows. He's either trying to recruit me, or throw me off my game. Act natural, and we'll figure out what we're doing later.

What's up? Find out anything interesting? Marcus says jovially, attempting to appear normal as he approaches his friends.

[CosmicOccurence]

You do know how to make a good first impression. A few sentences in, and already lecturing about politics, Quicksilver says to Marissa. In any case, your argument is flawed from the get-go. Are you seriously telling me a one-on-one Pokemon battle is enough to establish morality? Are you seriously implying that an evil person is less capable, and is going to lose that fight? Quicsksilver asks, before giving a laugh that wasn't quite human. If that is the case, and one's moral compass decides one's Pokemon ability, why hasn't the League stamped out Jamba yet? Unless of course your implying the League is evil, and therefore just as incompetent as Jamba. I didn't peg you as one to say something so borderline treasonous.



I'm sure that we will talk more, Marcus says with a respectful nod. And if a show of force is all it takes, I suppose I will be seeing you again rather soon, Marcus says with a confident grin. For now, I suppose I should assuage my allies fears.

With that, Marcus walks away, his grin vanishing rather quickly. Four factions? What exactly did that mean? League supporters, Jamba, and Marcus and his allies made a quick three, which begged the question of what the last faction was. Varro and his men? The various foreigners present? Something that he was missing? Or was Varro just trying to make him paranoid?

Either way, Marcus knew he needed to be on his guard. As he makes his way to Katie and Tiny, Marcus quickly taps into the chatroom, knowing that it was likely the only place he could safely talk to his allies on this ship. If Katie or Tiny was present, Marcus quickly begins to communicate in it.

Varro knows I orchestrated Tesla, although I don't know how many details he knows. He's either trying to recruit me, or throw me off my game. Act natural, and we'll figure out what we're doing later.

What's up? Find out anything interesting? Marcus says jovially, attempting to appear normal as he approaches his friends.

Quicksilver

Well then, I suppose I shall consider myself a social and intellectual incompetent and take my leave, she said. Nice to meet you, though I must say I'm rather more interested in your trainer. You'll have to tell me your name sometime. Next time, we'll have to be a little less frosty to each other, eh? She gave a coy smile and flounced away towards the man from Hoenn with the trails of light.

Marcus

Varro turned towards another trainer who had approached him: the girl with the TV fan shirts named Marissa.

Your friends, those in on the network at least, looked a bit more relieved after your silent message to them. Jeff seemed more in awe that you'd gone up to Varro in the first place at all though, and asked a few shallow questions about what he was like while Katie and Tiny chimed in 'online'.

Well that does throw a wrench in things, doesn't it? Tiny sighed. I suppose some of the cameras must have captured some of the images of the Stars. He adjusted his too-tight shirt as Katie began to speak.

On the bright side, it could be Jamba that knows, she thought. So far from my interactions with them, they have no idea. At least here the guy who knows isn't coming after you with creepy masks and powerful pokemon. Still, Katie at least looked a bit worried by the idea that Varro had offered you a job.

All I can figure out is that there are a couple nervous nellies around, she nodded at Terrance, Ulene, Genivere, Marissa, Igneus, Peter, and Kiara. A lot of the others seem to be here just for the items, but all of them just seem a little ... off. She shrugged, But if Jamba managed to get some people on board, I'm sure that they wouldn't be so incompetent as to be obvious about their allegiances.

She sighed. This whole intrigue thing is tiring me out. Why can't we just bash someone's head in, you know?
Tiny nodded in agreement, then said something about checking on Dominic and pranced off across the room.

No, said Jean's voice from across the room. Her instincts are good,
though Pheleos seems the most fishy. I'm curious about what's underneath that arm.

[Arcran]

Quicksilver

Well then, I suppose I shall consider myself a social and intellectual incompetent and take my leave, she said. Nice to meet you, though I must say I'm rather more interested in your trainer. You'll have to tell me your name sometime. Next time, we'll have to be a little less frosty to each other, eh? She gave a coy smile and flounced away towards the man from Hoenn with the trails of light.

The last comment did surprise Quicksilver a bit, although the Weavile did his best to keep the sculpture from reacting to it. After taking a moment to regain his composure, he turns back towards the brain.

Well, how about you show me how that system works? Quicksilver asks, trying to sound upbeat.


Marcus

Varro turned towards another trainer who had approached him: the girl with the TV fan shirts named Marissa.

Your friends, those in on the network at least, looked a bit more relieved after your silent message to them. Jeff seemed more in awe that you'd gone up to Varro in the first place at all though, and asked a few shallow questions about what he was like while Katie and Tiny chimed in 'online'.

Well that does throw a wrench in things, doesn't it? Tiny sighed. I suppose some of the cameras must have captured some of the images of the Stars. He adjusted his too-tight shirt as Katie began to speak.

On the bright side, it could be Jamba that knows, she thought. So far from my interactions with them, they have no idea. At least here the guy who knows isn't coming after you with creepy masks and powerful pokemon. Still, Katie at least looked a bit worried by the idea that Varro had offered you a job.

All I can figure out is that there are a couple nervous nellies around, she nodded at Terrance, Ulene, Genivere, Marissa, Igneus, Peter, and Kiara. A lot of the others seem to be here just for the items, but all of them just seem a little ... off. She shrugged, But if Jamba managed to get some people on board, I'm sure that they wouldn't be so incompetent as to be obvious about their allegiances.

She sighed. This whole intrigue thing is tiring me out. Why can't we just bash someone's head in, you know?
Tiny nodded in agreement, then said something about checking on Dominic and pranced off across the room.

No, said Jean's voice from across the room. Her instincts are good,
though Pheleos seems the most fishy. I'm curious about what's underneath that arm.

Marcus frowns slightly at Katie's initial remark.

Not to be a downer, but do I need to remind you who took Tesla in the first place? Marcus asks. Unless they were working freelance, Jamba members took Tesla, who showed up in Varro's power plant a month later. All signs point towards Varro and Jamba at least being bedfellows, Marcus says, trying to process the other information.

Either way, I think we shouldn't trust anybody on this ship that isn't a Prime or Jeff. Work with them if you have to, be friendly, but be cautious the whole way. Katie, I'm going to rely on you to relay everything we talk about in the room to Dominic. Jean, same with you and the big guy. But be subtle about it; apparently Varro and the Wailord have one and the same mind.

We need to find out as much as we can. For now, we play by Varro's rules. We'll beat the Brains, get as many resources as possible. I'll do my best to investigate everything we get, but I'm not sure if I can even hope to find a bug that Varro creates. We figure out how this all works and, most importantly, we don't let Varro break us apart. He's already tried to pull me, and I have not doubt he'll go for the rest of us.

Either way, I'll try to talk to Pheleos. Maybe I can figure something out, Marcus says, briefly saying his goodbyes before making his way towards Pheleos, looking around the woman to see who she was talking to.

[Jacior]

Why not wrong at all, the man said. For where else can teamwork truly shine than in a doubles battle? This nonsense of single battles in the rest of the league, it makes no sense. When in reality do people ever fight battles against just one opponent at a time?

Truly it is the test of a true trainer to succeed. Think you're up to it?

A few other trainers had wandered near to the man, including Genivere, the woman with spiked red hair and pistols equipped to shoot pokeballs. However, none of them approached the conversation yet.

"Wow, I'm surprised I guessed that!" Dominic said with the almost stereotypical nose wipe of a cocky anime fighter. "When you say double battle, do you mean two people or two pokemon? Cause you're kinda being vague enough to ask." He was already thinking of who to pair together if it was two of his own pokemon. It wasn't really much of a thought to be honest. But if he was working with someone else, who knew what he'd need to do. He spared glances at the others sort of hovering around, giving them raised eyebrows as why they wouldn't approach. It wouldn't be rude if the guy was blind right?

[CosmicOccurence]

The last comment did surprise Quicksilver a bit, although the Weavile did his best to keep the sculpture from reacting to it. After taking a moment to regain his composure, he turns back towards the brain.

Well, how about you show me how that system works? Quicksilver asks, trying to sound upbeat.



Marcus frowns slightly at Katie's initial remark.

Not to be a downer, but do I need to remind you who took Tesla in the first place? Marcus asks. Unless they were working freelance, Jamba members took Tesla, who showed up in Varro's power plant a month later. All signs point towards Varro and Jamba at least being bedfellows, Marcus says, trying to process the other information.

Either way, I think we shouldn't trust anybody on this ship that isn't a Prime or Jeff. Work with them if you have to, be friendly, but be cautious the whole way. Katie, I'm going to rely on you to relay everything we talk about in the room to Dominic. Jean, same with you and the big guy. But be subtle about it; apparently Varro and the Wailord have one and the same mind.

We need to find out as much as we can. For now, we play by Varro's rules. We'll beat the Brains, get as many resources as possible. I'll do my best to investigate everything we get, but I'm not sure if I can even hope to find a bug that Varro creates. We figure out how this all works and, most importantly, we don't let Varro break us apart. He's already tried to pull me, and I have not doubt he'll go for the rest of us.

Either way, I'll try to talk to Pheleos. Maybe I can figure something out, Marcus says, briefly saying his goodbyes before making his way towards Pheleos, looking around the woman to see who she was talking to.

Quicksilver
Sadly that's classified, she said. You'd need an access pass to our back labs before I'd have permission to share anything with you. Just rest assured that you'll have full customization ability with the team you decide to create, and they'll react exactly like a Pokemon would!

Marcus
Pheleos was chatting with Igneus, the blond haired blue eyed half cyborg with prosthetic limbs just as often as flesh. When you approached, she waved her hand, the one that wasn't covered in a long sleeve sewn shut, and he wandered off. Up close she seemed less gothy, just very, very pale. Her hair was a stark white, and it didn't seem particularly unnatural. The word albino came to mind, but it was hard to tell really. She didn't have glasses, but with this age of tech that didn't really mean anything.

Hello, she said, her voice stronger than you'd expect from someone so spindly. My name is Pheleos. You're one of the people from that big group that gathered earlier. Marcus, right? You got the sense that she already knew the answer to that question.

[CosmicOccurence]

"Wow, I'm surprised I guessed that!" Dominic said with the almost stereotypical nose wipe of a cocky anime fighter. "When you say double battle, do you mean two people or two pokemon? Cause you're kinda being vague enough to ask." He was already thinking of who to pair together if it was two of his own pokemon. It wasn't really much of a thought to be honest. But if he was working with someone else, who knew what he'd need to do. He spared glances at the others sort of hovering around, giving them raised eyebrows as why they wouldn't approach. It wouldn't be rude if the guy was blind right?

Two Pokemon. Do I look like one of the twins from Hoenn? No, I like to handle things myself thank you very much. He seemed gruff, but in a jovial sort of way.

May I ask though, what might someone as spunky as yourself be doing on this ship? he seemed concerned, and he leaned in to you. I'd be very careful young man. Strange things have been happening on this ship of late. You feel ... well lets just say you and Varro share an aura. His voice was a whisper, but you could feel the intensity in his words.

The last time someone like you came aboard ... well that was when things started to change. With ten of you boarding ... well things are likely going to get hairy. I don't want to see anyone hurt, but I can only do so much.

[Prehysterical]

We aren't sure. It wasn't Jamba, that's for sure since the group we ran into after was pissed ... maybe just because they got beaten to it?

I just hope we don't have another group ready to raise a ruckus. I don't know what Chronos is up to these days, but his region is falling apart I tell you. He rolled his eyes, which was rather uncharacteristic for a trainer to do. Until recently, the league had been something of an immaculate pristine entity, above any sort of criticism.
"Really?" Angus was surprised by that news. Was there another group at work, taking advantage of Jamba's activities?

"What do you mean, falling apart? Is no one keeping the wild Pokemon in check?"

[Arcran]

Quicksilver
Sadly that's classified, she said. You'd need an access pass to our back labs before I'd have permission to share anything with you. Just rest assured that you'll have full customization ability with the team you decide to create, and they'll react exactly like a Pokemon would!

Marcus
Pheleos was chatting with Igneus, the blond haired blue eyed half cyborg with prosthetic limbs just as often as flesh. When you approached, she waved her hand, the one that wasn't covered in a long sleeve sewn shut, and he wandered off. Up close she seemed less gothy, just very, very pale. Her hair was a stark white, and it didn't seem particularly unnatural. The word albino came to mind, but it was hard to tell really. She didn't have glasses, but with this age of tech that didn't really mean anything.

Hello, she said, her voice stronger than you'd expect from someone so spindly. My name is Pheleos. You're one of the people from that big group that gathered earlier. Marcus, right? You got the sense that she already knew the answer to that question.


Quicksilver

Cool, cool, Quicksilver mutters, waving away the comments about full customization. Any way for contestants to get an access pass? I don't suppose that's somewhere in the shop?

I'm ready to stop having QS do things at any point!

Marcus

Yep, Marcus says, trying to add an element of tiredness to his voice which, oddly enough, wasn't that much of a push to do. The joys of the Item Workshop being in your region. Every friend you've ever made on the road wants in on the prize too, Marcus says with a sigh. I don't suppose you're from Hayle, are you? Or did you just finish the Gym circuit long before I was watching it?

[CosmicOccurence]

Quicksilver

Cool, cool, Quicksilver mutters, waving away the comments about full customization. Any way for contestants to get an access pass? I don't suppose that's somewhere in the shop?

I'm ready to stop having QS do things at any point!

Marcus

Yep, Marcus says, trying to add an element of tiredness to his voice which, oddly enough, wasn't that much of a push to do. The joys of the Item Workshop being in your region. Every friend you've ever made on the road wants in on the prize too, Marcus says with a sigh. I don't suppose you're from Hayle, are you? Or did you just finish the Gym circuit long before I was watching it? With the amount of tech on the woman's body it was difficult to guess her age, which made this as good a question as any.

Of course, as he talks to her, Marcus quickly looks over the various prosthetics, trying to find some kind of tell that might indicate who it was made by.

To ID Prosthetics: [roll0]

You're pretty sure you can see some slots for hidden weapons in Igneus's mech arm as he walks away, and based on the vibrations of his shirt he's got some armored plating under there too.

As for who created them, you could see that they weren't one of the classic models made by Varro Cop. In fact, they almost looked homemade in their design, with many choices that were divergent from the mass produced models.

After letting Quicksilver know that access passes were a security hazard and not likely to happen, the brain walked off to chat with one of the other contestants.

Meanwhile, Pheleos simply shook her head. One of the perks of secret battles is that you can get badges without needing to gain the public eye. I spend most of my time in Central. There are enough trainers there that someone like me can blend in without causing much of a stir. She seemed young, maybe a few years older than you, but not by much.

Speaking of which, your time in Central was rather eventful if I remember correctly. She paused for a long moment before continuing. Varro Corp is many things, but careful about their hazardous waste is not one of them. Clearly she was talking about the incident that had led to you capturing Arista.

[CosmicOccurence]

"Really?" Angus was surprised by that news. Was there another group at work, taking advantage of Jamba's activities?

"What do you mean, falling apart? Is no one keeping the wild Pokemon in check?"

Wild Pokemon aren't the problem. It's the humans that are causing trouble. Anyways though, what better place to arm up than from the most skilled itemsmith in the world.

[Jacior]

Dominic clapped the man on the back, stepping back slightly with a smile. "Thanks for the advice! I like to think my team can work together pretty well though, I don't think it's gonna be as easy a fight as you think it is!" He says amicably. "I'm going to be the next Champion after all. Gonna make some big waves and bigger changes." He twisted his head to the side, cracking it and working out some of the tension. "I really just can't wait to win. I'm going to take all the best prizes." Dominic would have to take what the man said back to everyone else. But right now there was no point even thinking about it.

[Arcran]

That feels like an eternity ago, Marcus says, adjusting his purple jacket slightly as his eyes narrow ever-so-slightly. The pause could have been nothing, but with how paranoid every single action on the boat was making Marcus, he couldn't help but assume she also knew. Still, can't complain. Varro's toxic waste has been very useful so far.

Still, aside from that and getting my badge, I can't say I've been to Central much. I don't suppose you can tell me all the local hangouts so I don't waste my time at tourist traps if I ever find my way back there? Marcus says, watching Pheleos closely to see if there's any change when he mentions not having been to Central since getting Arista.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic clapped the man on the back, stepping back slightly with a smile. "Thanks for the advice! I like to think my team can work together pretty well though, I don't think it's gonna be as easy a fight as you think it is!" He says amicably. "I'm going to be the next Champion after all. Gonna make some big waves and bigger changes." He twisted his head to the side, cracking it and working out some of the tension. "I really just can't wait to win. I'm going to take all the best prizes." Dominic would have to take what the man said back to everyone else. But right now there was no point even thinking about it.

Well the items here are certainly the best. If you beat me, you can win yourself a nifty little tool that can create illusions.
Light only, but big enough to disguise you or a Pokemon no larger than a human. Each of us has our own special item that you can earn from us, free from points.

This battle is set up much like that of the championship. Only the strong can win here. Somehow I get the feeling that I'll be seeing more of you.

[CosmicOccurence]

That feels like an eternity ago, Marcus says, adjusting his purple jacket slightly as his eyes narrow ever-so-slightly. The pause could have been nothing, but with how paranoid every single action on the boat was making Marcus, he couldn't help but assume she also knew. Still, can't complain. Varro's toxic waste has been very useful so far.

Still, aside from that and getting my badge, I can't say I've been to Central much. I don't suppose you can tell me all the local hangouts so I don't waste my time at tourist traps if I ever find my way back there? Marcus says, watching Pheleos closely to see if there's any change when he mentions not having been to Central since getting Arista.

I was raised in a bad part of town, Pheleos said, brushing her hair back with her free hand. You noticed glitter underneath her eyes, though the rest of her clothes were fifty shades of dark purple. So I don't know if someone like you would be interested in visiting my neck of the city.

It's amazing that, despite the ban on Pokemon training to all but the worthy, that there are so many lowlifes that either have earned Pokemon and use them to rule the alleyways by force, or who can get them illegally. Suffice to say that the 13th ward is not a fun place to visit. Still, it's doing better than it used to, but if you do come, I'd avoid walking the streets at night. 109 Souls is a nice inn and restaurant if you don't mind a bit of dirt.

Now, she continued, To what do I owe the pleasure of our conversation? Your twin is talking with a Brain and you were with Varro. You chat with your group and then approach me. She let the implication hang there. It felt like one of her eyebrows should be raised, but she sadly lacked the skill to do so.

[Prehysterical]

Wild Pokemon aren't the problem. It's the humans that are causing trouble. Anyways though, what better place to arm up than from the most skilled itemsmith in the world.
"I suppose," Angus conceded with a scowl. Hopefully, that title would some day belong to him. "Well, good luck to you, Ironwall."

Walking back into the crowd, Angus looked at the tables prepared with food. He was reluctant to trust anything on this ship, but the growling in his stomach reminded him how poorly he had eaten in the past several days. Hastening to the battle site by foot meant that he could not ride with a full stomach. Finding an open seat, Angus sat down as gracefully and considerately as he could given his armor. His hands reached for any sort of fare that he might recognize among the vast array before him.

[Arcran]

Just making the rounds, truth be told, Marcus says, trying to sound disinterested. After all, as friendly as we all may be right now, this is a competition. I recognize a good number of people in the room, but I'd never so much as heard of you, Marcus says, attempting to make his voice curious. And, of course, I can't help but wonder why exactly you know about my Grimer. You knowing of her existence is nothing special; I made a bit of a scene when I battled Leo, so it wouldn't be unheard of for somebody to find that footage and watch it. But to know precisely where I captured her? Well, that's some strange information. Even among my friends in the room, I don't know where they caught the majority of their Pokemon.

I don't suppose you were at the cleanup as well, and I just missed you there? Marcus says, giving her an obvious, if clumsy, out. He tries to keep his tone flat, but an accusatory note does creep in at the end.

He's not really lying, but a Guile is still probably called for: [roll0]

And, of course, Intuition to read her: [roll1]

[CosmicOccurence]

"I suppose," Angus conceded with a scowl. Hopefully, that title would some day belong to him. "Well, good luck to you, Ironwall."

Walking back into the crowd, Angus looked at the tables prepared with food. He was reluctant to trust anything on this ship, but the growling in his stomach reminded him how poorly he had eaten in the past several days. Hastening to the battle site by foot meant that he could not ride with a full stomach. Finding an open seat, Angus sat down as gracefully and considerately as he could given his armor. His hands reached for any sort of fare that he might recognize among the vast array before him.

Thankfully, Varro seemed happy to accomodate the more unique palates of those that grew up in Zahaard Fortress. There were plenty of familiar dishes, from spit-roasted combusken to the thick chutney style vegetarian dishes that focused on the mountainous berries of your homeland. Since all of those foods were concentrated in one area, it was no surprise when Ulene, the lady from the Order of the Crashing Waves, made her way towards you.

She set her Apricorn ball staff down as she scooped up some roast Ducklett meat pies onto her plate and took a seat next to you. Armor huh? she said. Never would have thought that I'd see many other trainers from the mountains here. I can't remember the last time I had a conversation with someone who actually gets what life is supposed to be like, instead of this world of metal and electricity they've created.

[CosmicOccurence]

Just making the rounds, truth be told, Marcus says, trying to sound disinterested. After all, as friendly as we all may be right now, this is a competition. I recognize a good number of people in the room, but I'd never so much as heard of you, Marcus says, attempting to make his voice curious. And, of course, I can't help but wonder why exactly you know about my Grimer. You knowing of her existence is nothing special; I made a bit of a scene when I battled Leo, so it wouldn't be unheard of for somebody to find that footage and watch it. But to know precisely where I captured her? Well, that's some strange information. Even among my friends in the room, I don't know where they caught the majority of their Pokemon.

I don't suppose you were at the cleanup as well, and I just missed you there? Marcus says, giving her an obvious, if clumsy, out. He tries to keep his tone flat, but an accusatory note does creep in at the end.

He's not really lying, but a Guile is still probably called for: [roll0]

And, of course, Intuition to read her: [roll1]

Like I said, I know most things that happen in Central, at least the parts that matter. Suburbia not so much. I was never one for the perfectly manicured lawns. One of the perks of growing up in a city is that if you know the right people, nothing gets by your notice.

And you don't know the city well enough to move around without attracting attention. My friends and I tend to keep track of most of the trainers who come from Stormwrack. What with the Ranger school there, a lot of bad apples head our way to escape their influence. And it isn't uncommon for the more corrupt recruits to ask for Central as a position. More room for them get lost in the shuffle and make some money off the backs of trainers like me.

So I always try to keep tabs on trainers from Stormwrack.

[Jacior]

"Eh I'm not big on illusions, really. I'm more of a... up-front and stop dancing around the issue kinda guy." Dominic says with a shrug. "It's just not my style. Maybe I can find someone to trade with... if that's even allowed with the rules. But I'm looking forward to this cause any chance to get a heads up on the Championship Fight is definitely super up my alley." He sidles up to the blind man. "You... wouldn't happen to know what everyone else has up for grabs would you?"

[Arcran]

Like I said, I know most things that happen in Central, at least the parts that matter. Suburbia not so much. I was never one for the perfectly manicured lawns. One of the perks of growing up in a city is that if you know the right people, nothing gets by your notice.

And you don't know the city well enough to move around without attracting attention. My friends and I tend to keep track of most of the trainers who come from Stormwrack. What with the Ranger school there, a lot of bad apples head our way to escape their influence. And it isn't uncommon for the more corrupt recruits to ask for Central as a position. More room for them get lost in the shuffle and make some money off the backs of trainers like me.

So I always try to keep tabs on trainers from Stormwrack.


One of Marcus' eyebrows raises at her explanation. She was definitely more paranoid than he was.

I suppose that makes sense, he admits begrudgingly, not knowing quite enough to claim she was lying. So what do you and your friends think? Am I one of these bad eggs?

[CosmicOccurence]

"Eh I'm not big on illusions, really. I'm more of a... up-front and stop dancing around the issue kinda guy." Dominic says with a shrug. "It's just not my style. Maybe I can find someone to trade with... if that's even allowed with the rules. But I'm looking forward to this cause any chance to get a heads up on the Championship Fight is definitely super up my alley." He sidles up to the blind man. "You... wouldn't happen to know what everyone else has up for grabs would you?"

Our lovely jousting lady, he pointed to the lady in the jumpsuit,has a vocal splitter which allows for more effective command of multiple pokemon. At the place where you rent pokemon, the prize is a machine that creates various kinds of smoke, including smoke that forms a solid wall. The fashion model has a coat with a few cool functions, and the bartender's got possible the most powerful consumable I've ever seen used in battle up for grabs.

They're all good, and I'm sure any trainer here would trade an arm and a leg ... sometimes literally, for any of the items.

[CosmicOccurence]

One of Marcus' eyebrows raises at her explanation. She was definitely more paranoid than he was.

I suppose that makes sense, he admits begrudgingly, not knowing quite enough to claim she was lying. So what do you and your friends think? Am I one of these bad eggs?

Well you don't abuse your Pokemon, so we consider that a good first step. I'm sure we'll see a lot of each other these next couple days, so don't be a stranger, she said as she walked off back to her friend.

[CosmicOccurence]

The Next Day

You all were shown into the arena room, which held six distinct battling rings. The Battle Factory was a mess of wires and projector lights, with relatively little seating. The Battle Arena was fairly standard, looking so pristine you could practically see your reflection on the arena floor. The Battle Bar not only served drinks, but also a relatively small battle space with nowhere to flee. The Battle Stadium was peppered with collumns and platforms built to allow maneuverability among its battlers. The Battle Lane was a long strip of cleared land with a single rail between.

Finally, the item workshop was a polished dome, perfectly smooth, with a single door in and a single door out. This was where items could be purchased using points, though only one trainer was allowed in at a time to prevent others to know what was being purchased. It was also where your Mega Stones would be waiting for you should you decide to grab one quickly.

It seemed to be in the interests of all the trainers to visit there first, at least to see what the workshop had to offer. However, waste too much time, and someone might earn the right to battle the Battle Brain before you could, earning their special item in the process.

Varro was mostly absent. He gave a short speech encouraging you all to do your best and follow the rules, then he melted away. A social event, likely some sort of mixer, was occuring that you were all invited to, though you were just as welcome to stay in your room at night.


I'm sure some of the names have changed and I'm too lazy to change them.

Factory = rental pokemon
Arena = you enter 3 pokemon, see opponents team, then do a double battle
Battle Bar = Pokken (normal battle that ends as soon as one mon is fainted)
Stadium = Blast Ball (rules are basically that every time you hit someone, the blastball gets moved to the other party. It has a increasingly large chance each round and strike of blowing up. Best 2/3 matches wins. Pokemon fainting loses that match as well. Fivestrike/doublestrike/strike again moves have an increased chance of blowing the ball up
Battle Lane - Jousting! Mount required.

[Arcran]

Marcus, after fulfilling the bare minimum of social niceties by greeting his companions, makes a beeline for item workshop. He had nothing to hide in that he was going to try to get as many items as possible, and he wanted his Mega Stone as soon as he was able. A Mega Stone would boost his odds of winning the Arena, something that he was already very confident in his ability to win.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus, after fulfilling the bare minimum of social niceties by greeting his companions, makes a beeline for item workshop. He had nothing to hide in that he was going to try to get as many items as possible, and he wanted his Mega Stone as soon as he was able. A Mega Stone would boost his odds of winning the Arena, something that he was already very confident in his ability to win.

Unfortunately, you had to wait for Terry to finish in the store, as she had skipped all the niceties and ran straight to the shop. She gave you a knowing smile as she left, but didn't say anything.

When you entered, the space was chic and modern. Minimalist designs, with no chairs and monotone cream or eggshell covered counters. Items were displayed in open view, but you noticed a faint haziness that surrounded them, indicating that some sort of force-field surrounded them. It looked a bit like that of a Mr. Mime's barrier attack, but you couldn't be sure.

Before you could take too much of a look around, a young girl, maybe 12 years old or so, popped up from behind the counter. She was wearing overalls and had her hair pulled up in a bushy ponytail. You got the feeling that in any other setting, she'd be covered in oilstains, but her clothes seemed clean for now.

Marcus is it? she said in a chippy voice as she immediately placed her thumb on a portion of the counter, causing a drawer filled with small boxes to slide open. She grabbed a sheaf of papers on top and began to flip through First things first ... hmmm which one was it? Ah! Greninja. By Arceus that was a tricky one to make.

She glanced up at you. Sure didn't make my life easy picking a starter like that mister, she continued. But I figured it out in the end. Just took a little bit of imaginasium and it worked right out. Greninjas should know that they're done growing, being fully evolved you know, but they just can't stop changing. They act like they're my age mister, if you don't mind me saying, and ain't no Pokemon fully evolved that needs to be acting like me.

She finally pulled one box out of the drawer and slid it across the counter. One Greninjite as promised, though really why the old mister promised that I'd make these things without asking me first. Really it was rude of him. Like when a frillish decides not to bite the line. He should learn politness he should.

Anyways, she continued, oblivious to the fact that you hadn't said a word yet. You ain't got any points yet because nobody gots no points yet, so you can't buy anything here, but if you want to look around, it's no skin of my Aggron. And no touching!
Not that you could in the first place. You ain't important enough to be able to open these boxes. Just me and the old geezer, and that's just the way I like it.

The list of items is in the ooc, but there's certainly more kinds of things if you want me to create more

[Arcran]

Marcus frowns as Terry exits, knowing that he'd unintentionally put himself behind her already. Still, Marcus didn't think about that for too long, as the sudden surprise of seeing an apparent twelve year old running the shop surprised him a fair bit. Almost unconsciously, Marcus turned on his Symbolsight, trying to determine if there was anything divine about her. Even if there was, the odds of her wearing a ring were high, but it couldn't hurt to check.

Thank you, Marcus says simply as she slides the box towards him. Although I don't see what the issue with evolving further is. The second one stops evolving, they become stagnant and obsolete, no? Marcus says, a wry grin on his face as he opens the box to look at the Mega Stone.

I don't suppose you would mind answering some questions? Marcus asks, first holding up the shimmering chromatic Mega Stone. What does this do, he begins, before he starts to point around the room. Does that have multiple uses? he asks, pointing towards the Teleportation Fairy. What exactly does the Lighthouse do to warrant costing so much? Would Dials work with a robot? How fast is a Message Bottle? Can a Containment Doll hold something animated, but not conscious? Marcus asks, stopping for a moment to give the girl a chance to answer.

Oh, and I'm sorry, I don't believe I caught your name. You are...?

1 AP to Symbolsight this room!
1 AP to Chronicle whatever-her-name-is!

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus frowns as Terry exits, knowing that he'd unintentionally put himself behind her already. Still, Marcus didn't think about that for too long, as the sudden surprise of seeing an apparent twelve year old running the shop surprised him a fair bit. Almost unconsciously, Marcus turned on his Symbolsight, trying to determine if there was anything divine about her. Even if there was, the odds of her wearing a ring were high, but it couldn't hurt to check.

Thank you, Marcus says simply as she slides the box towards him. Although I don't see what the issue with evolving further is. The second one stops evolving, they become stagnant and obsolete, no? Marcus says, a wry grin on his face as he opens the box to look at the Mega Stone.

I don't suppose you would mind answering some questions? Marcus asks, first holding up the shimmering chromatic Mega Stone. What does this do, he begins, before he starts to point around the room. Does that have multiple uses?[/B] he asks, pointing towards the Teleportation Fairy. What exactly does the Lighthouse do to warrant costing so much? Would Dials work with a robot? How fast is a Message Bottle? Can a Containment Doll hold something animated, but not conscious? Marcus asks, stopping for a moment to give the girl a chance to answer.

Oh, and I'm sorry, I don't believe I caught your name. You are...?

1 AP to Symbolsight this room!
1 AP to Chronicle whatever-her-name-is!

Me? You can call me any old thing you like. I do like the name Seven though. Not sure why. Maybe I'll go to Sven someday, but Sven's a name for old geezers like you. So Seven. Seven didn't have a symbol above her head and you didn't notice any jewelry on her hands.

As for your fancy pants new evolution, I'm afraid that's something you get to figure out for yourself. Or you can trade in points for it, but why waste 'em? I've invented a lot better stuff for you to spend them on. Be like buying Beedrill honey when you could have some of the Combee stuff.

She went on to answer your questions about the Lighthouse. Apparantly it synced to any other info gathering systems you had in place along with access to a disturbingly large number of databases that various groups collected on people. It also had some barrier abilities that let you protect yourself and make other's lives a misery.

Bong Bong is one of my favorites, Seven said. Long range stuff, though not often, but also reliable teleportation for your everyday needs. The containment doll works for unconscious stuff. We had some bounty hunters who commissioned it a while back to carry knocked out humans with no hassle, but they died before they could pick it up. I'd call it a waste, but it was muking fun to make it was.

Message bottle is pretty instant. Store a message, the next person to open it gets to hear your lovely voice. I kinda think its a glorified voicemail, but I didn't tell myself to make it. The old geezer wanted to have me put in an identity authorization to it though, so with a bit of their blood you can make sure it doesn't work for no one else. Dials would not work on a Robot, but they could be used as a held item for them.

Five minutes into your discussion she seemed to realize that she'd been rambling about the intricacies of the clock that hung on the wall. Apparently it worked by harnessing electromagnetic pulses and atomic tremors, though the result was the spectacularly unremarkable feat of keeping time. Really I coulda just bought myself a HootHoot and been just as well off, she said.

Mechanically, Lighthouse gives rerolls for skills on people you have chronicled. A free protect on moves in your archive. And the ability to create barriers in locations you've analyzed.

[Arcran]

Marcus nods along, and actually pulls out a small journal to take notes as Seven rambles on and on about the various different devices in the room, although his note keeping does get somewhat sloppy as she starts to drag on and on about the clock on the wall.

At least you can leave the clock and not worry about feeding it, Marcus states, more than a little impressed by the effort put into such a simple system. He does look hungrily at both Bong Bong and the Lighthouse; ideally he would get them both, but accumulating that many points could get difficult. In the worst-case situation, he'd at least be able to round out his inventory with some of the cheaper options. The doll in particular could be a very, very useful self defense tool.

I'm sure you'll be seeing me again quite soon, but I need to get some points, Marcus says with a nod before turning to leave and make his way towards the Arena.

There is, however, two small things that are bugging him, with the first being the name of the woman: Seven would, of course, imply that six people came before her, which means that, possibly, Varro had created artificial life at some point. The implications of that were, well, troubling.

The other was how perfect the Lighthouse was for his skillset. It almost seemed like a trap, but Marcus had no real legitimate way to verify that outside of analysis, which seemed unlikely until he had purchased it.

[Jacior]

Dominic played niceties with the people for as long as he could resist his excitement, which frankly wasn't very long. After watching a couple people to leave for the shop, he decided that instead of being quick to buy, he'd be quick to win and get first rights at the brains. The Arena was the place of course. Anyone would be crazy not to try that first. So he was gonna. If he couldn't win without a Mega Stone what right did he have to be the Champion anyway. It felt like a crutch.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic played niceties with the people for as long as he could resist his excitement, which frankly wasn't very long. After watching a couple people to leave for the shop, he decided that instead of being quick to buy, he'd be quick to win and get first rights at the brains. The Arena was the place of course. Anyone would be crazy not to try that first. So he was gonna. If he couldn't win without a Mega Stone what right did he have to be the Champion anyway. It felt like a crutch.

You were one of the first people to reach the Battle Arena, but a few others had ventured here as well. Jeff, one of Marcus's friends, was there, as was Kiara, the child of Leo Blackwell, the Wrystone Gym Leader. It became clear that they'd decided not to battle each other for some reason, but both were open to you challenging them in the Arena.

The man you'd talked to before was nowhere in sight, but one of the guards, dressed in a flambouyant blue that matched the colors here, came up. Is there someone here to your liking to battle? If not, you are welcome to wait here or venture to another facility to find a challenger.

[Jacior]

Dominic steps up Kiara. "So... you, me, battle in the Arena? I'd say loser buys lunch but for once I don't have to worry about paying for food!" He was all grins and impetuous energy, which was definitely more relaxed than he'd been in a while.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic steps up Kiara. "So... you, me, battle in the Arena? I'd say loser buys lunch but for once I don't have to worry about paying for food!" He was all grins and impetuous energy, which was definitely more relaxed than he'd been in a while.

Kiara grins. Sure thing. Looks like we'll be the first to go too, which means the winner will get the first crack at challenging the brain tomorrow. She plucks out three Pokeballs from her pockets and tosses them up. They only let you into the arena with three Pokeballs, so you've got to choose your team now. She glanced at the attendant, who nodded.

The arena lacks any sort of environmental intrusions or accommodations for specific movement styles. Be aware that burrowing is not allowed, nor is flight over 3 meters. Please keep this in mind when selecting your team. You will use only two pokemon for this battle, but you will select them upon seeing the three pokemon your opponent brought.

When both of you are ready, we may begin.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus nods along, and actually pulls out a small journal to take notes as Seven rambles on and on about the various different devices in the room, although his note keeping does get somewhat sloppy as she starts to drag on and on about the clock on the wall.

At least you can leave the clock and not worry about feeding it, Marcus states, more than a little impressed by the effort put into such a simple system. He does look hungrily at both Bong Bong and the Lighthouse; ideally he would get them both, but accumulating that many points could get difficult. In the worst-case situation, he'd at least be able to round out his inventory with some of the cheaper options. The doll in particular could be a very, very useful self defense tool.

I'm sure you'll be seeing me again quite soon, but I need to get some points, Marcus says with a nod before turning to leave and make his way towards the Arena.

There is, however, two small things that are bugging him, with the first being the name of the woman: Seven would, of course, imply that six people came before her, which means that, possibly, Varro had created artificial life at some point. The implications of that were, well, troubling.

The other was how perfect the Lighthouse was for his skillset. It almost seemed like a trap, but Marcus had no real legitimate way to verify that outside of analysis, which seemed unlikely until he had purchased it.

The Battle Arena seemed to be the most crowded of the venues. Dominic was already battling with Leo's daughter, and Jeff had paired up with Puck to try their hand at getting some points in a lower-stress enviornment. Angus, Jean, the Ironwall mercenary and the chick with the giant staff were in the jousting arena, and nobody really seemed much interested in the Factory other than the one trainer that you knew Quicksilver was trying his hand against. Tiny and Katie were both at the bar, as were a few of the older trainers.

In the lobby here were a few options to battle, and they all were discussing whom should battle whom, which was made difficult by the odd number without you. Marissa was there, as was Terry and Genivere, the girl who accompanied the slightly gothic Pheleos you'd talked with earlier. Her Pokeball guns sat low on her hips, though she obviously wouldn't use them for this battle.

[Arcran]

For one moment, Marcus considers taking the slightly more intelligent path. After all, Terry was a much higher ranked trainer than he was, and almost certainly more capable. And yet, still, that rejection so early in his trainer career still stung, and Marcus felt the need to set it right. Despite his better instincts, Marcus begins to make his way over towards Terry, stopping a few feet away to adjust his glasses.

I don't suppose you have a partner yet, Marcus says, trying to keep his tone light.

[CosmicOccurence]

Terry grinned when she looked at you. I couldn't have asked for anything more perfect, she said.

The attendant quickly stepped up, The arena lacks any sort of environmental intrusions or accommodations for specific movement styles. Be aware that burrowing is not allowed, nor is flight over 3 meters. Please keep this in mind when selecting your team. You will use only two pokemon for this battle, but you will select them upon seeing the three pokemon your opponent brought. . Terry brought out three pokeballs swiftly, already seeming to know what she would use against you.

Time to see if the new prodigy of the Shooting Stars is all he's cracked up to be.

[Jacior]

Dominic plucks three of his pokeballs from his belt and grins. "Yeah it sounds pretty great to me. Though if I lose Marcus will never let me live it down..." He grimaces slightly at the thought and shakes his head. "Whenever you're ready!"

Gareth, Noboru, MTG

[CosmicOccurence]

You entered the arena, which was exactly as promised: starkly bare inside a stadium that seemed entirely too large. The girl you'd elected to battle quickly released her team, which consisted of a Swalot, a Snorlax, and a Trevanant. She looked at your team, carefully inspecting it, before eventually selecting two of the Pokeballs for her to use.

[Arcran]

Marcus is silent as he brings out three Pokeballs, setting them down. This battle would be decided by who could get it to a two-on-one battle first, and Marcus very much intended for that to be him.

Icon, Gelver and Pix.

[CosmicOccurence]

It took a while for you to reach the stage, but it looked pretty much the same as it had on the monitors. Terry released her three pokemon, a Kangaskhan, Zangoose, and Drampa. She looked at your releases carefully before finally picking two Pokeballs to use in the upcoming battle.

[Arcran]

Marcus looks at his opponent's team, thinking quickly. The Drampa seemed like potential bait to make him pull out Pokemon that can use Ice-Type Moves but, fortunately, his team was rather competent in that situation. As much as Marcus wanted to use Gelver, the unknown factor of his Mega Stone made him reluctant. Icon, of course, was simply a powerhouse, while Pix's ability to quickly take out a foe was essentially unrivaled. Marcus' hands hover for a long moment, before he reaches for Gelver and Icon's Pokeballs. He'd have to trust in the Mega Stone, Gelver's raw ability, and rely on Icon's considerable bulk.

[Jacior]

Dominic cracked his neck to the side and released his mon onto the field. Noboru and MTG. Better coverage and range than Gareth had, even though Gareth was awesome. It'd be a rough fight no matter what she picked but it wouldn't be a complete wipe either.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus looks at his opponent's team, thinking quickly. The Drampa seemed like potential bait to make him pull out Pokemon that can use Ice-Type Moves but, fortunately, his team was rather competent in that situation. As much as Marcus wanted to use Gelver, the unknown factor of his Mega Stone made him reluctant. Icon, of course, was simply a powerhouse, while Pix's ability to quickly take out a foe was essentially unrivaled. Marcus' hands hover for a long moment, before he reaches for Gelver and Icon's Pokeballs. He'd have to trust in the Mega Stone, Gelver's raw ability, and rely on Icon's considerable bulk.

As both of you revealed your choices, Gelver and Icon sat facing the Zangoose and Kangaskhan. Terry grinned as the gong rang, the Zangoose already a blur of motion that outsped even Gelver's wicked speed. In a blast of colored light its tail bloomed out to a ridiculous length, and its fur streaked with red and black patterns. You saw a flurry of items as it seemed to wedge a purple orb in its fur while hiding away the shining stone you knew to be a Mega Stone.

Show this fool the power of one of the Armedius Seven! Terry cried.

The Zangoose brought a single claw down as hard as it could towards Gelver's head, holding nothing back.


Terry
Bind Plainly Perfect to Zangoose (standard
Activate Mega Stone Zangoose (swift)


Zangoose Poisoned from Toxic Orb
Swift Action to switch Chic items to Mega Stone
Zangoose uses Facade on Gelver [roll0], AC 2, deals 145 damage (physical normal)
Whether it is a hit or miss, Gelver may not apply evasion next round due to the Unbalancing Blow signature technique

Free Action: activate poison heal gained from mega evolution

[CosmicOccurence]

Your pokemon faced down the Chef's Snorlax and Trevenant. As the gong sounded, Noboru and MTG were already in motion, their reactions clearly faster than the opposing pokemon, both of which were far larger than either of your team.

[Arcran]

As the Zangoose rockets forward, Marcus' eyes fly around the field, taking in as many details as possible. Before the Zangoose had taken more than three steps forward, Marcus had already figured out a strategy.

Gelver, Normal-Type attack incoming! Retaliate! Marcus shouts, momentarily lamenting the fact the fact that he doesn't get to trigger the Mega Stone quite yet. The Greninja nods, before it fires a small blast of water at the ceiling, causing a small blast that sends rocks careening downwards towards the Zangoose, simulating a Rock Slide. The dust covers the arena for a moment, stopping an instant later to reveal Gelver still standing, if only barely, the claw stopped a few inches into Gelver's hide by tough, rocky skin that had seemingly appeared out of nowhere.

Icon, now! Hit it from below, then run interference! Marcus shouts. The Nidoking grins before slamming a fast into the ground, causing a powerful blast to erupt beneath the Zangoose's feet, before charging forward to get into the face of the Kangaskhan.

Marcus
Priority (Limited) Standard Action (Commanders Voice): Bind Pinpoint Strike to Gelver, use Focused Training on Icon.
Swift (Interrupt): Chronicler the area. Use Studies in Scarlet (Master Rank) to instantly add to my book.
Swift (Interrupt, next turn): Chronicler Facade.
Free Action (Interrupt): Cinematic Analysis (Situational Awareness) to allow Gelver to act before Zangoose.
Free Action (Interrupt): Cinematic Analysis (Recreation) to allow Gelver to use Rock Slide.

End result: Marcus uses 2 AP, Scene use of Studies in Scarlet, and 2/3 daily uses of Cinematic Analysis.

Gelver
Shift Action: Blender
Swift Action: Protean to become Rock Type!
Standard Action: Use Rock Slide so it just hits the Zangoose!
AC 4: [roll0], Flinch 16+, Critical 19+
Damage: [roll1] (+10 DB, +29 Attack) Small error, forgot to include the -5, so only 44 damage.
Critical: [roll2]

Gelver takes 69 damage because Resistance. 2 Injuries

Icon
Standard Action: Use Earth Shatter on Zangoose!
AC 2: [roll3], Critical 19+, Vulnerable hit or miss
Damage: [roll4] (+10 from DB, +10 Hustle, +10 Sheer Force, +5 Rivalry, +43 from Special Attack)
Critical: [roll5]
Shift: Close with Kangaskhan

All attacks ignore non-stat Evasion.

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Noboru - Health: 85/85 ; Intiative: 32; Evasions: ATK 2+1 SATK 2+1 ANY 4+1; Injuries: 0
MTG 4255 - Health: 89/89 ; Intiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 4+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Noboru:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +0 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 0

MTG 2455:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Attack Combat Stage
-Momentum: +0 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 0
Dominic nods his head, it would be the best two to fight of course. Just had to play around the big dumb giants and whittle away at them. "Noboru strike that trevenant with sucker punch! MTG blast them both! Rock slide!" The toxicroak linged around the side of the big tree mon while MTG launched a barrage of stones at the pair of mon
Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired Orders on Noboru: +1 to Evasion and Save Checks
Use Focused Orders on MTG: +1 Accuracy and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Noboru
Standard: Use Sucker Punch

Sucker Punch
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +30 Attack, +9 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 19+

Shift: I4 to L7

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Sucker Punch hits, +1 from Super Effective if it hits

MTG
Standard: Use Rock Slide centered on I8

Rock Slide
Attack vs AC 4: [roll3], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll4] Physical Rock (DB 8: 2d8+10, +36)
If Crit: [roll5]
Special: Flinches on 17+

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Rock Slide hits

[CosmicOccurence]

As the Zangoose rockets forward, Marcus' eyes fly around the field, taking in as many details as possible. Before the Zangoose had taken more than three steps forward, Marcus had already figured out a strategy.

Gelver, Normal-Type attack incoming! Retaliate! Marcus shouts, momentarily lamenting the fact the fact that he doesn't get to trigger the Mega Stone quite yet. The Greninja nods, before it fires a small blast of water at the ceiling, causing a small blast that sends rocks careening downwards towards the Zangoose, simulating a Rock Slide. The dust covers the arena for a moment, stopping an instant later to reveal Gelver still standing, if only barely, the claw stopped a few inches into Gelver's hide by tough, rocky skin that had seemingly appeared out of nowhere.

Icon, now! Hit it from below, then run interference! Marcus shouts. The Nidoking grins before slamming a fast into the ground, causing a powerful blast to erupt beneath the Zangoose's feet, before charging forward to get into the face of the Kangaskhan.

Marcus
Priority (Limited) Standard Action (Commanders Voice): Bind Pinpoint Strike to Gelver, use Focused Training on Icon.
Swift (Interrupt): Chronicler the area. Use Studies in Scarlet (Master Rank) to instantly add to my book.
Swift (Interrupt, next turn): Chronicler Facade.
Free Action (Interrupt): Cinematic Analysis (Situational Awareness) to allow Gelver to act before Zangoose.
Free Action (Interrupt): Cinematic Analysis (Recreation) to allow Gelver to use Rock Slide.

End result: Marcus uses 2 AP, Scene use of Studies in Scarlet, and 2/3 daily uses of Cinematic Analysis.

Gelver
Shift Action: Blender
Swift Action: Protean to become Rock Type!
Standard Action: Use Rock Slide so it just hits the Zangoose!
AC 4: [roll0], Flinch 16+, Critical 19+
Damage: [roll1] (+10 DB, +29 Attack) Small error, forgot to include the -5, so only 44 damage.
Critical: [roll2]

Gelver takes 69 damage because Resistance. 2 Injuries

Icon
Standard Action: Use Earth Shatter on Zangoose!
AC 2: [roll3], Critical 19+, Vulnerable hit or miss
Damage: [roll4] (+10 from DB, +10 Hustle, +10 Sheer Force, +5 Rivalry, +43 from Special Attack)
Critical: [roll5]
Shift: Close with Kangaskhan

All attacks ignore non-stat Evasion.


Terry's eyebrows flew up at Gelver's quick response and defensive maneuvering. As Icon blew up the ground underneath the Zangoose though, she quickly gave two short piercing whistles. The Mega-Evolved pokemon immediately used the rocks from Gelver's attack to launch himself into the air, twisting away from the blast and landing deftly on the ground.

Seems like I misjudged which Pokemon was a threat, Terry said. But I suppose not everyone's starter can be as powerful as my Savage. Padre, hit it with Comet Punch! Savage, switch targets, hit that beast with everything you've got!


Terry:
Standard: Bind Plainly Perfect to Padre
Swift: Strike Again
Free Action: Simple Improvements on Savage, he gains +6 to all rolls this turn and 12 temporary hp


Padre (Kangaskhan)
Comet Punch (with New Normal) AC 2 [roll0]
76 physical normal damage
activate intimidating fashion to give Icon a -2 to all rolls for the next round

Savage (Zangoose)
Free Action: Activates Dodge against Icon's attack.
Swift Action: Switch item to slick fashion
Shift: to M7, activates slick fashion to avoid AOO from Gelver
Standard: Facade [roll1] (icon flanked, takes -2 to evasion), Icon vunerable on a hit or miss. Deals 151 physical normal damage.

IF Icon is still up, Strike Again allows it to use Facade again
If Icon is fainted, Zangoose activates Celebrate to immediately take a shift action back to next to gelver where he uses Facade with Strike Again

Facade: [roll2], target vunerable on a hit or miss. Deals 151 physical normal damage.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Noboru - Health: 85/85 ; Intiative: 32; Evasions: ATK 2+1 SATK 2+1 ANY 4+1; Injuries: 0
MTG 4255 - Health: 89/89 ; Intiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 4+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 0

Buffs/Debuffs:
Noboru:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +0 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 0

MTG 2455:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Attack Combat Stage
-Momentum: +0 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 0
Dominic nods his head, it would be the best two to fight of course. Just had to play around the big dumb giants and whittle away at them. "Noboru strike that trevenant with sucker punch! MTG blast them both! Rock slide!" The toxicroak linged around the side of the big tree mon while MTG launched a barrage of stones at the pair of mon
Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired Orders on Noboru: +1 to Evasion and Save Checks
Use Focused Orders on MTG: +1 Accuracy and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Noboru
Standard: Use Sucker Punch

Sucker Punch
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +30 Attack, +9 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 19+

Shift: I4 to L7

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Sucker Punch hits, +1 from Super Effective if it hits

MTG
Standard: Use Rock Slide centered on I8

Rock Slide
Attack vs AC 4: [roll3], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +1 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll4] Physical Rock (DB 8: 2d8+10, +36)
If Crit: [roll5]
Special: Flinches on 17+

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Rock Slide hits


Noboru and MTG leaped into action, sending off their quickly flurry of attacks. While the Snorlax's fatty exterior mostly caused the rocks to bounce off without any significant damage, Noboru's attack against the ghastly tree were much more effective. So effective that when MTG's rocks made contact it almost took the thing out of the battle entirely.

However, the daughter of a gym leader wasn't going to go down without a fight. Both of her pokemon quickly swallowed snacks that they had ready in their leaves and fur, and many of the Trevenatn's wounds healed, though it was still quite battered. Meanwhile, the snorlax's muscles swelled, even as it leaped forward, pounding its hand into the ground and causing a massive cracking of the ground that you knew would hurt both your pokemon super effectively.

Meanwhile the Trevenant, fearing another sucker punch, attempts to entangle Noboru in a Leech Seed that would keep its health up while sapping away your Pokemon's energy.


Trevenant consumes berry! [roll0], on a 1 the berry is not consumed. Hits the Spot! grants temp HP. Snorlax eats an attack raising berry! Kiara uses Accentuate Taste and Complex Aftertaste to grant it a tasty snack for later and +1 critical range.

Snorlax
Shift: provokes AOO from MTG
Uses earthquake! This targets both of your mons [roll1] AC 2, does [roll2] physical ground damage.

Trevenant - leech seed [roll3] AC 4

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Noboru - Health: 85/85 ; Intiative: 32; Evasions: ATK 2+1 SATK 2+1 ANY 4+1; Injuries: 0
MTG 4255 - Health: 37/89 ; Intiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 4+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Noboru:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 5

MTG 2455:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Attack Combat Stage
-Momentum: +2 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 4
Dominic doesn't flinch at the sudden earthquake. Arlo made stronger shakes without earthquake just fine. "Noboru dodge it!" The toxicroak rode out the shockwave, dodging the pellet seeds from the trevenant at the same time. "Now, take out that trevenant! MTG, magnet rise then trip up snorlax with grass knot!"
Noboru uses Dodge, takes no damage

Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired Orders on Noboru: +1 to Evasion and Save Checks
Use Focused Orders on MTG: +1 Accuracy and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Noboru
Standard: Use Feint Attack

Feint Attack
Attack vs AC Can't Miss: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +3 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Dark (DB 6: 2d6+8, +30 Attack, +9 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 19+

Shift: L7 to M4

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits, +1 from Super Effective if it hits

MTG
Standard: Use Grass Knot on Snorlax

Grass Knot
Attack vs AC 2: [roll3], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +2 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll4] Special Grass (DB 12: 3d12+10, +6 Special Attack, +16 Attack)
If Crit: [roll5]

Shift: None

Swift: Use Magnet Rise
The user gains the Levitate Ability for 5 turns. Magnet Rise may be activated as a Swift Action if the user is otherwise given an action that consumes a Command.

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Grass Knot hits

[Arcran]

Despite Icon doing his best to take down the Zangoose before the punishing attacks hit, Icon is sent careening into the ground from the powerful, toxin-fueled attack of the Zangoose. Marcus flinches slightly, before looking at Gelver. Right now, the odds of a win weren't looking good. The Kangaskhan was unhurt, and while the Zangoose was injured, Gelver was every bit as hurt as it was. For a moment, Marcus is painfully aware of the fact that he is going to lose this battle.

Of course, just because he was in a bad spot did not mean that Marcus was going to give up.

Alright Gelver, let's try out that ring! Marcus shouts, touching his Mega Pin and watching as the Greninja begins to shift and change. As the Greninja's form became leaner and stronger, with the stone essence seeming to become purer, Marcus allows himself to marvel at the beauty of it for a fraction of a second before barking out another command.

Stone Shock! Marcus bellows, watching as Gelver forms a ball of brownish energy before launching it at Zangoose, trying to meld into the ground an instant later.

Icon stuff done in OoC!

Marcus uses Adaptive Assault!
Gelver uses Aqua Shock as a Rock-Type!
AC: [roll0], Using an AP for AC boost. Confuse 16+, Critical 19+, Vulnerable after attack
Damage: [roll1] (+10 DB, +42 Special Attack)

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Noboru - Health: 85/85 ; Intiative: 32; Evasions: ATK 2+1 SATK 2+1 ANY 4+1; Injuries: 0
MTG 4255 - Health: 37/89 ; Intiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 4+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Noboru:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 5

MTG 2455:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Attack Combat Stage
-Momentum: +2 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 4
Dominic doesn't flinch at the sudden earthquake. Arlo made stronger shakes without earthquake just fine. "Noboru dodge it!" The toxicroak rode out the shockwave, dodging the pellet seeds from the trevenant at the same time. "Now, take out that trevenant! MTG, magnet rise then trip up snorlax with grass knot!"
Noboru uses Dodge, takes no damage

Dominic
Standard: Use Inspired Orders on Noboru: +1 to Evasion and Save Checks
Use Focused Orders on MTG: +1 Accuracy and Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Noboru
Standard: Use Feint Attack

Feint Attack
Attack vs AC Can't Miss: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +3 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll1] Physical Dark (DB 6: 2d6+8, +30 Attack, +9 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 19+

Shift: L7 to M4

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Feint Attack hits, +1 from Super Effective if it hits

MTG
Standard: Use Grass Knot on Snorlax

Grass Knot
Attack vs AC 2: [roll3], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Focused Orders, +2 from Momentum)
Damage: [roll4] Special Grass (DB 12: 3d12+10, +6 Special Attack, +16 Attack)
If Crit: [roll5]

Shift: None

Swift: Use Magnet Rise
The user gains the Levitate Ability for 5 turns. Magnet Rise may be activated as a Swift Action if the user is otherwise given an action that consumes a Command.

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Grass Knot hits


As the Trevenant is swiftly dealt with, the Snorlax grunts from the blow as it was wrapped from the feet up in a crushing blow. However, it was quickly able to stomp its way free and swing round to MTG, its fist igniting fiercly as it rockets towards your Metang.

As the blow connects though, the X across the Metangs head explodes into light as its entire body seems to suck the metal from the floor around it, assembling itself into what you knew to be a Metagross. Even a few of the ceiling tiles attached to its head, pressurizing into a smooth surface. The two new arms clutched at the punch, easily stopping the blow as power coursed through MTG's circuts.


Fire Punch [roll0], AC 2, Burn 19+. [roll1].

MTG evolves!!! If this blow would faint MTG, he may take one more move action before fainting as a reward. Yahtzee!

Or I could roll a 1 and its immaterial. More badass evo anyways.

[CosmicOccurence]

Despite Icon doing his best to take down the Zangoose before the punishing attacks hit, Icon is sent careening into the ground from the powerful, toxin-fueled attack of the Zangoose. Marcus flinches slightly, before looking at Gelver. Right now, the odds of a win weren't looking good. The Kangaskhan was unhurt, and while the Zangoose was injured, Gelver was every bit as hurt as it was. For a moment, Marcus is painfully aware of the fact that he is going to lose this battle.

Of course, just because he was in a bad spot did not mean that Marcus was going to give up.

Alright Gelver, let's try out that ring! Marcus shouts, touching his Mega Pin and watching as the Greninja begins to shift and change. As the Greninja's form became leaner and stronger, with the stone essence seeming to become purer, Marcus allows himself to marvel at the beauty of it for a fraction of a second before barking out another command.

Stone Shock! Marcus bellows, watching as Gelver forms a ball of brownish energy before launching it at Zangoose, trying to meld into the ground an instant later.

Icon stuff done in OoC!

Marcus uses Adaptive Assault!
Gelver uses Aqua Shock as a Rock-Type!
AC: [roll0], Using an AP for AC boost. Confuse 16+, Critical 19+, Vulnerable after attack
Damage: [roll1] (+10 DB, +42 Special Attack)

Terry smiled as Gelver wasn't able to even connect with the Zangoose, whose lithe form slipped easily through the blow. Both it and the Kangaskhan descended on Gelver, bringing to bear the full weight down on your Greninja.

Next time, think a little harder before you challenge one of the Armedius 7. Devyn isn't here to protect you now, and Jess isn't much when it comes to a battle.


Kanga - Dizzy Punch [roll0], confuse on 17+. does 50 damage

Facade [roll1], 151 physical normal damage.

[Jacior]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Noboru - Health: 85/85 ; Intiative: 32; Evasions: ATK 2+1 SATK 2+1 ANY 4+1; Injuries: 0
MTG 4255 - Health: 37/95 ; Intiative: 7; Evasions: ATK 4+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Noboru:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 6

MTG 2455:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Attack Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 6
Dominic nods at the evolution, trying very hard not to bounce up and down excitedly. "Awesome! It's time to finish this! Begin the Conqueror's March! Bring that snorlax down! Venoshock, zen headbutt!" It was a sudden and resounding set of strikes, paired almost perfectly against the front and back of the snorlax, Noboru blasting it with a poison stream while MTG smashed headfirst into the spongy form. "Keep going! It's not that tough! Sucker punch, metal claw!" The pokemon swept their arms back and punched at the snorlax, hoping to take it down.
Dominic
Standard: Use Critical Moment on Noboru: +2 to Evasion and +4 to Save Checks
Use Critical Moment on MTG: +2 to Accuracy and +4 to Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Free: Sieze the Moment on Noboru

Free: Sieze the Moment on MTG

Noboru
Sieze the Moment: Use Venoshock

Feint Attack
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll1] Special Poison (DB 9: 2d10+10, +19 Special Attack, +15 Attack)
Auto Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 19+

Standard: Use Sucker Punch

Sucker Punch
Attack vs AC 2: [roll3]+1 if Venoshock Hits, (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll4] Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +30 Attack, +9 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll5]
Special: Poisons on 19+
Special: If the attack misses, it still deals damage as if it had the Smite keyword. If the attack hits, it’s automatically a Critical Hit. If it would have already been a Critical Hit, your Pokémon gains Hit Points equal to half of its maximum Hit Points.

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Venoshock hits, +1 if Sucker Punch Hits

MTG
Sieze the Moment: Use Zen Headbutt

Zen Headbutt
Attack vs AC 4: [roll6], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll7] Phsyical Pschic (DB 10: 3d8+10, +40 Attack, +5 Special Attack)
Auto Crit: [roll8]
Special: Zen Headbutt Flinches the target on 15+
Special: If the attack misses, it still deals damage as if it had the Smite keyword. If the attack hits, it’s automatically a Critical Hit. If it would have already been a Critical Hit, your Pokémon gains Hit Points equal to half of its maximum Hit Points.

Metal Claw
Attack vs AC 3: [roll9]+1 if Zen Headbutt Hits, (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll10] Physical Steel (DB 9: 2d6+10, +40 Attack, +5 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll11]
Special: Raise the user's Attack by +1 CS on 18+.

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Zen Headbutt hits, +1 if Metal Claw Hits

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic - Health: 110/110; Initiative: 5; Evasions: ATK 2 SATK 1 ANY 2; Injuries: 0
Noboru - Health: 85/85 ; Intiative: 32; Evasions: ATK 2+1 SATK 2+1 ANY 4+1; Injuries: 0
MTG 4255 - Health: 37/95 ; Intiative: 7; Evasions: ATK 4+1 SATK 4+1 ANY 1+1; Injuries: 2

Buffs/Debuffs:
Noboru:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Speed Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 6

MTG 2455:
-Focused Training: +1 to Accuracy, +2 to Skill Checks
-Inspired Training: +1 to Evasion, +2 to Save Checks
-Trained: +1 Attack Combat Stage
-Momentum: +3 to To-Hit & Evasion
-Momentum (Start of Dominic's Turn): 6
Dominic nods at the evolution, trying very hard not to bounce up and down excitedly. "Awesome! It's time to finish this! Begin the Conqueror's March! Bring that snorlax down! Venoshock, zen headbutt!" It was a sudden and resounding set of strikes, paired almost perfectly against the front and back of the snorlax, Noboru blasting it with a poison stream while MTG smashed headfirst into the spongy form. "Keep going! It's not that tough! Sucker punch, metal claw!" The pokemon swept their arms back and punched at the snorlax, hoping to take it down.
Dominic
Standard: Use Critical Moment on Noboru: +2 to Evasion and +4 to Save Checks
Use Critical Moment on MTG: +2 to Accuracy and +4 to Skill checks

Shift: None

Swift: None

Free: Sieze the Moment on Noboru

Free: Sieze the Moment on MTG

Noboru
Sieze the Moment: Use Venoshock

Feint Attack
Attack vs AC 2: [roll0], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll1] Special Poison (DB 9: 2d10+10, +19 Special Attack, +15 Attack)
Auto Crit: [roll2]
Special: Poisons on 19+

Standard: Use Sucker Punch

Sucker Punch
Attack vs AC 2: [roll3]+1 if Venoshock Hits, (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll4] Physical Dark (DB 8: 2d8+10, +30 Attack, +9 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll5]
Special: Poisons on 19+
Special: If the attack misses, it still deals damage as if it had the Smite keyword. If the attack hits, it’s automatically a Critical Hit. If it would have already been a Critical Hit, your Pokémon gains Hit Points equal to half of its maximum Hit Points.

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Venoshock hits, +1 if Sucker Punch Hits

MTG
Sieze the Moment: Use Zen Headbutt

Zen Headbutt
Attack vs AC 4: [roll6], (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll7] Phsyical Pschic (DB 10: 3d8+10, +40 Attack, +5 Special Attack)
Auto Crit: [roll8]
Special: Zen Headbutt Flinches the target on 15+
Special: If the attack misses, it still deals damage as if it had the Smite keyword. If the attack hits, it’s automatically a Critical Hit. If it would have already been a Critical Hit, your Pokémon gains Hit Points equal to half of its maximum Hit Points.

Metal Claw
Attack vs AC 3: [roll9]+1 if Zen Headbutt Hits, (+1 from Focused Training, +1 from Momentum, +2 from Critical Moment)
Damage: [roll10] Physical Steel (DB 9: 2d6+10, +40 Attack, +5 Special Attack)
If Crit: [roll11]
Special: Raise the user's Attack by +1 CS on 18+.

Shift: None

Swift: None

Gain 1 Momentum at the End of Turn, +1 from Directed Focus, +1 if Zen Headbutt hits, +1 if Metal Claw Hits


In the flurry of attacks, both of your opponents go down. She scratched her head in wonderment. Well that didn't go the way I thought it would. Dad would be ashamed, and I didn't even have a chance to use my specialty berries! Maybe the Bar is a better fit for my team ...

Anyways, congrats! I saw you on TV last year, but you didn't use any of the same pokemon as you did then. And that evolution ... well it's clear your pokemon really trust your leadership. Good luck on the battle with the brain tomorrow!


Congrats on the win! Expect the brain to be notched up quite a bit.

[Jacior]

"Thanks! Yeah, I didn't really want to break out my heavy hitters until the brain. No need to give an edge where I don't need to you know?" Dominic stuck his hand out for a handshake. "I promise you another friendly match when I'm Champion. Or sooner if you get the itch really. Battling is fun." He grins. "I think my... mom would be ashamed if I didn't do great."

[CosmicOccurence]

As the day of battling wound down, tensions began to settle. While there was still a competitive spirit, most people seemed to enjoy the quirks of the battling. The rank seven trainers tended to stick to themselves, casually crushing anyone who challenged them, such as Marcus. The lower ranked trainers had their own tiers of ability, but everyone had earned at least some points by the end of the day. Whispers were abounding at the prizes that were being offered, who wanted to buy what, and what the Brain Battles would be like on the next day.

The day ended in mid-afternoon, and you were all given a few hours to rest, socialize, and generally decompress after the day. That evening you had a few options for entertainment provided by Varro. The most anticipated was a tour of some of the more well-publicized parts of the company, such as the cyborg lab and the Pokeball research division. While it would be heavily monitored by the guards and likely wouldn't include any sights that weren't recorded somewhere public, it was still a once in a lifetime chance to see some of the great research labs with your own eyes.

For those less inclined to walk around, there was a small casino opening where you could bet the points that you had earned. While you couldn't battle there, it still looked to be a fun way to spend the evening. Or you could remain in your room. It wasn't like you were slaves, just prisoners.


If you all have some burning desire to have conversations within your group, let me know, but I think just a short blurb about your rest time will suffice.

[Jacior]

Dominic was... too enthused, to say little of how the day went. He participated in battles with anyone who'd offer up, for points or for fun it didn't matter to him. Win some, lose some, but always coming out positive, he was a little disappointed when they called off fighting for the rest of the afternoon. But he really was kind of worn out so it was probably a good thing. It was what to do after that was the question. Casino or tour... casino would probably be more fun and less likely to run in Marcus so that was en easy decision! Carrying the worn out Arlo, he headed that way and hoped his sister didn't try to drag him along.

[CosmicOccurence]

Despite being hastily erected, the Casino was quite the spectacle. Dizzyingly flashing lights, whirring machines, tables full of cards and chips. About half the attendees were in the room, some already neck deep in card games and others sitting around chatting. Among the people who had arrived were Tiny, Genevive, Pheleos, Katya, Ulene, Marissa, Terry and Igneus.

Tiny gave you a bright wave as you walked in. He was at the bar where the frontier brain Chip was serving drinks (alcoholic and virgin) to those parties interested in some refreshment.

[Arcran]

Terry smiled as Gelver wasn't able to even connect with the Zangoose, whose lithe form slipped easily through the blow. Both it and the Kangaskhan descended on Gelver, bringing to bear the full weight down on your Greninja.

Next time, think a little harder before you challenge one of the Armedius 7. Devyn isn't here to protect you now, and Jess isn't much when it comes to a battle.


Kanga - Dizzy Punch [roll0], confuse on 17+. does 50 damage

Facade [roll1], 151 physical normal damage.



As Gelver falls, Marcus simply stands there emotionless. After all his work, all that he’d done, there was still this much of a gap between Terry and himself? What had he even bothered to train for? He was supposed to be a Prime, supposed to be better than all of this! Instead, one little Zangoose was able to decimate his team without hardly breaking a sweat.

Without a word Marcus returns his team and leaves to try to find somebody that could get his team back in fighting shape, occassionally adjusting his glasses nervously as he walks.



The rest of Marcus’ day consisted of him feverishly trying to make up for his earlier loss, to less success than he would have liked. He avoided using Icon and Gelver if at all possible, and gave Terry a very wide berth.

For the evening’s activities Marcus obviously went on the tour. While it obviously would be nothing he couldn’t find with some effort, this was a chance to see it all easily and with (slightly) less filtering than the public had. After making sure he had some spare journals, Marcus makes his way to the start of the tour, absentmindedly probing the mental network to see how the others had done today.

[CosmicOccurence]

As Gelver falls, Marcus simply stands there emotionless. After all his work, all that he’d done, there was still this much of a gap between Terry and himself? What had he even bothered to train for? He was supposed to be a Prime, supposed to be better than all of this! Instead, one little Zangoose was able to decimate his team without hardly breaking a sweat.

Without a word Marcus returns his team and leaves to try to find somebody that could get his team back in fighting shape, occassionally adjusting his glasses nervously as he walks.



The rest of Marcus’ day consisted of him feverishly trying to make up for his earlier loss, to less success than he would have liked. He avoided using Icon and Gelver if at all possible, and gave Terry a very wide berth.

For the evening’s activities Marcus obviously went on the tour. While it obviously would be nothing he couldn’t find with some effort, this was a chance to see it all easily and with (slightly) less filtering than the public had. After making sure he had some spare journals, Marcus makes his way to the start of the tour, absentmindedly probing the mental network to see how the others had done today.

About half the people on the ship decided to take the tour. Thankfully Terry wasn't around, though you noticed Katie, Marissa (the girl Quicksilver had the argument with yesterday), Peter (Hoenn man, symbols coming out from back), and Terrance (sunglasses, hat, hood, no interactions yet) among other people.

The tour was led not by Varro, but by Seven. The girl made an energetic, if perhaps on the whole lackluster tour guide. When she was interested in something, she was nothing short of a firecracker, but when walking from one place to another, she drifted off and just let the group talk amongst themselves.

After seeing the custom pokeball lab, the Pokebot battle studio, and the Underwater trainer suit development room (which was unsurprisingly filled with water. They put you in a sub for it), you were headed towards the tinker's workshop, which was Seven's personal workstation. It promised to be a long walk, so you had time to journal, chat, or even see if you could wander off without being noticed ... by the guards following the group or the cameras watching your every move. This place didn't take many chances when it came to security ...

[Jacior]

Dominic waved awkwardly at Tiny, face reddening slightly at the big guy's eagerness. Walking up to the bar he sat next to Tiny and rapped his knuckles on the bar, like he'd seen on TV. "Barkeep! A rum and cola!" He had no idea if it was gonna work but it was worth the effort trying. "Or if you are more moral in fiber, I'll take a straight pepsi. I'm not terribly picky." Dominic side-eyed Tiny, trying not to draw too much attention to himself. "So uh... how was your day? Win big?"

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic waved awkwardly at Tiny, face reddening slightly at the big guy's eagerness. Walking up to the bar he sat next to Tiny and rapped his knuckles on the bar, like he'd seen on TV. "Barkeep! A rum and cola!" He had no idea if it was gonna work but it was worth the effort trying. "Or if you are more moral in fiber, I'll take a straight pepsi. I'm not terribly picky." Dominic side-eyed Tiny, trying not to draw too much attention to himself. "So uh... how was your day? Win big?"

Dale doesn't seem particularly concerned with morals. After muttering something about responsible drinking needing to be embedded at a young age to avoid dangerous binges, he handed you a rum and cola with a smile and a flourish. You ordered literally the most boring drink in the world, so I made it a little special, he said with a wink. You noticed that there seemed to be tiny stars floating in the glass, swirling around with the eddies of the water.

Tiny had some sort of luminescent rainbow colored drink in his hands that he was sipping at through the smallest straw you could possibly imagine. He shrugged at the question. You win some you lose some, he said, But I learned pretty quickly not to challenge the Rank 7 trainers. They've got some nasty tricks up their sleeves.

What about you? Noticed that you beat Leo's kid. He left the sentence hanging, obviously not sure how to continue.

[Jacior]

Dominic is more than a little mystified by the sparkling little starts in his glass. This guy was cool. Both in a style sense and just... underage drinking yep! "I literally have not ever tried to order a drink before I'll trust your judgement." He takes a sip of his drink and grins up at Tiny. "Yeah, I guess... I still wanna try fighting one. Just... not for points you know?" He nudges Tiny a little bit, then sort of pulls his arm back. "Yeah uh, I was surprised, she wasn't nearly as rough as Katie is, I thought over Leader's Kids would be more tough you know? I won... most things but I got a little sloppy near the end of the time, I was just having fun!" He realized he was getting a bit loud and took a couple big gulps from his drink. "Sorry, I just get excited about battling. It's like the only thing I'm any good at."

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic is more than a little mystified by the sparkling little starts in his glass. This guy was cool. Both in a style sense and just... underage drinking yep! "I literally have not ever tried to order a drink before I'll trust your judgement." He takes a sip of his drink and grins up at Tiny. "Yeah, I guess... I still wanna try fighting one. Just... not for points you know?" He nudges Tiny a little bit, then sort of pulls his arm back. "Yeah uh, I was surprised, she wasn't nearly as rough as Katie is, I thought over Leader's Kids would be more tough you know? I won... most things but I got a little sloppy near the end of the time, I was just having fun!" He realized he was getting a bit loud and took a couple big gulps from his drink. "Sorry, I just get excited about battling. It's like the only thing I'm any good at."

Oh don't sell yourself short! Tiny exclaimed. I'm sure there are other things you're good at. Getting your hair dyed if nothing else. Dale rolled his eyes and moved on to his next customer, the gothic-esque Pheleos.

Not to mention with the way the world is going, being a good battler is a pretty sweet deal. And just think, all of the trainers at our rank or higher have been trainers for years longer than us. We may not be quite as strong as them yet, but give it a month or two and I'm sure we'll get there.

[Arcran]

About half the people on the ship decided to take the tour. Thankfully Terry wasn't around, though you noticed Katie, Marissa (the girl Quicksilver had the argument with yesterday), Peter (Hoenn man, symbols coming out from back), and Terrance (sunglasses, hat, hood, no interactions yet) among other people.

The tour was led not by Varro, but by Seven. The girl made an energetic, if perhaps on the whole lackluster tour guide. When she was interested in something, she was nothing short of a firecracker, but when walking from one place to another, she drifted off and just let the group talk amongst themselves.

After seeing the custom pokeball lab, the Pokebot battle studio, and the Underwater trainer suit development room (which was unsurprisingly filled with water. They put you in a sub for it), you were headed towards the tinker's workshop, which was Seven's personal workstation. It promised to be a long walk, so you had time to journal, chat, or even see if you could wander off without being noticed ... by the guards following the group or the cameras watching your every move. This place didn't take many chances when it came to security ...

Marcus naturally gravitates towards Katie. While he knew he should be talking to Peter to try to get information about his symbols, after his earliest loss Marcus was smarting slightly and needed something familiar. Marcus and Quicksilver both sidle up next to Katie, the two nodding at her as they get close.

Starting to think we should have gone to the bar, Quicksilver says quietly, something the draws a nod from Marcus, who was currently furiously scribbling in a notebook. While the various things in the lab had certainly been interesting, it wasn't the specific kind of interesting that Marcus or Quicksilver had any real interest in. The Pokebots had been interesting, but it was the insides of robots that the duo needed more information about, not the outsides.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus naturally gravitates towards Katie. While he knew he should be talking to Peter to try to get information about his symbols, after his earliest loss Marcus was smarting slightly and needed something familiar. Marcus and Quicksilver both sidle up next to Katie, the two nodding at her as they get close.

Starting to think we should have gone to the bar, Quicksilver says quietly, something the draws a nod from Marcus, who was currently furiously scribbling in a notebook. While the various things in the lab had certainly been interesting, it wasn't the specific kind of interesting that Marcus or Quicksilver had any real interest in. The Pokebots had been interesting, but it was the insides of robots that the duo needed more information about, not the outsides.

Katie glanced at you before checking over your notes. So was this place everything you expected? she asked. If nothing else its been an ego check for both of us. Katie had taken on Pheleos, and had lost handily to the girl, so she knew something of what you were talking about.

Like, this Wailord is cool and everything, but I was expecting something a bit more sinister. I talked with Angus earlier, and he's pretty sure his sister is somewhere on board but ... she'd trailed off to a whisper by now so the guards couldn't hear. It all seems a bit mundane to me despite how fantastic it is. Maybe my expectations were just too high coming in.
I expected an evil dungeon and got exactly what was advertised, you know?

[Jacior]

Dominic stares into the stars swirling around in his drink. "I think when I'm the Champion I'm gonna change a bunch of stuff around. We shouldn't have to live in a world where battling is the only thing that gets you ahead right? Unless you want it to be. Like... Even Varro has to be a good battler. He couldn't just be an inventor. Or... an evil villain I guess. Actually you probably need to be a good battler for that so that's a bad example." He finishes his drink, grimacing at it. "Alcohol is not as good as TV and movies suggest. What are you drinking?"

[Arcran]

Katie glanced at you before checking over your notes. So was this place everything you expected? she asked. If nothing else its been an ego check for both of us. Katie had taken on Pheleos, and had lost handily to the girl, so she knew something of what you were talking about.

Like, this Wailord is cool and everything, but I was expecting something a bit more sinister. I talked with Angus earlier, and he's pretty sure his sister is somewhere on board but ... she'd trailed off to a whisper by now so the guards couldn't hear. It all seems a bit mundane to me despite how fantastic it is. Maybe my expectations were just too high coming in.
I expected an evil dungeon and got exactly what was advertised, you know?



Marcus pauses from writing as Katie starts to express her discomfort, nodding as he does so. Before answering Marcus' eyes dart around the hallway, unsure exactly how much of their conversation that Varro could hear right now. For some reason, Marcus didn't doubt that he could hear every bit of it.

To be fair, we've only seen the exact parts of the ship that Varro wants us to see, Marcus states, figuring that was as safe a statement as he was going to get. He could have six rooms dedicated to beating baby Spheals and we wouldn't have any idea at this point, Marcus says, slowing down his pace slightly to be at least a few yards behind Peter. Marcus lowers his voice slightly, then continues talking to Katie.

The people here, on the other hand, aren't quite what I expected. Seems like most people are a bit more than meets the eye, Marcus states with a soft nod towards Peter as he fumbles for a journal, pulling out his character one, flipping through it rapidly until he comes to Peter's page. On it is a halfway decent sketch of the markings revealed through Symbolsight, although Marcus makes a point to put a finger over the note saying that they are connected to Rayquaza, more to test Katie than anything.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus pauses from writing as Katie starts to express her discomfort, nodding as he does so. Before answering Marcus' eyes dart around the hallway, unsure exactly how much of their conversation that Varro could hear right now. For some reason, Marcus didn't doubt that he could hear every bit of it.

To be fair, we've only seen the exact parts of the ship that Varro wants us to see, Marcus states, figuring that was as safe a statement as he was going to get. He could have six rooms dedicated to beating baby Spheals and we wouldn't have any idea at this point, Marcus says, slowing down his pace slightly to be at least a few yards behind Peter. Marcus lowers his voice slightly, then continues talking to Katie.

The people here, on the other hand, aren't quite what I expected. Seems like most people are a bit more than meets the eye, Marcus states with a soft nod towards Peter as he fumbles for a journal, pulling out his character one, flipping through it rapidly until he comes to Peter's page. On it is a halfway decent sketch of the markings revealed through Symbolsight, although Marcus makes a point to put a finger over the note saying that they are connected to Rayquaza, more to test Katie than anything.

Katie laughed at the baby Spheal comment, but sobered up quickly when you pointed to the note about Rayquaza. That doesn't make any sense though, she said, her voice lowered to a whisper. In what world does that creature want anything to do with our region? Isn't he too busy stopping natural disasters or something? All that lore about keeping ground and water in balance.

I mean ... I guess a flying Wailord would be right up his alley. You know, with the sky thing and all, she trailed off a bit lamely.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic stares into the stars swirling around in his drink. "I think when I'm the Champion I'm gonna change a bunch of stuff around. We shouldn't have to live in a world where battling is the only thing that gets you ahead right? Unless you want it to be. Like... Even Varro has to be a good battler. He couldn't just be an inventor. Or... an evil villain I guess. Actually you probably need to be a good battler for that so that's a bad example." He finishes his drink, grimacing at it. "Alcohol is not as good as TV and movies suggest. What are you drinking?"

Tiny nodded along at your thoughts around the world. In Armedius especially, that's even worse. The whole city is built around pokemon trainers, but people can't go to the school unless they decided as a child they wanted to train pokemon. Like, if I hadn't decided to become a trainer, my life there would have been pretty miserable. The system is broken for sure.

When you asked about his drink, Tiny gave an overexaggerated shrug. No idea, He took one look at me and handed me a fruity rainbow drink ... but I'm not exactly subtle so I guess I can' be mad.

[Jacior]

"That's what I'm talking about it's ridiculous!" Dominic says, banging his fist down on the bar. "Whoops, shouldn't do that." He has the wherewithal to look ashamed before looking sheepishly at Dale. "Could I uh... get one of what he's having?" He looks at Tiny. "I dunno, I want things to be better."

[Arcran]

Katie laughed at the baby Spheal comment, but sobered up quickly when you pointed to the note about Rayquaza. That doesn't make any sense though, she said, her voice lowered to a whisper. In what world does that creature want anything to do with our region? Isn't he too busy stopping natural disasters or something? All that lore about keeping ground and water in balance.

I mean ... I guess a flying Wailord would be right up his alley. You know, with the sky thing and all, she trailed off a bit lamely.

Marcus adjusts his glasses nervously as he notices Marissa focusing on him. He'd expected there to be a few people here that were working for Varro, and between her current behavior and the way that she'd approached Quicksilver yesterday there was little doubt in Marcus' mind that Marissa was informing on him.

As he notices this, Marcus leans towards Katie, holding the journal up. Well and here, look at this, Marcus says, fingering tapping pointedly on the 'q' in Rayquaza, hoping that Katie would get the message. He tries to keep his voice somewhat low, although not to an inconspicuous level. If I'm right, it would certainly explain why he's here, right? Marcus says as he focuses his mind briefly, tapping into Q's room in order to have a more private conversation with Katie.

As he does so, Marcus snaps the journal shut before gently handing it to Quicksilver. Mind holding on to this for a bit? Marcus asks, wishing that he could talk to Quicksilver in Q's room. The Weavile gives a curt nod in response, holding the journal loosely by his side as he keeps stride with Katie and Marcus.

So, how are you handling the loss yesterday? Marcus says, almost disinterestedly. After all, if the two of them just went silent things would seem more than a little suspicious. I can honestly say that's the first time I've been beaten that soundly, or at all, really. Despite this being a distraction conversation, the bitterness in Marcus' voice is readily apparent.

Let's Chronicle Marissa really quick!

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus adjusts his glasses nervously as he notices Marissa focusing on him. He'd expected there to be a few people here that were working for Varro, and between her current behavior and the way that she'd approached Quicksilver yesterday there was little doubt in Marcus' mind that Marissa was informing on him.

As he notices this, Marcus leans towards Katie, holding the journal up. Well and here, look at this, Marcus says, fingering tapping pointedly on the 'q' in Rayquaza, hoping that Katie would get the message. He tries to keep his voice somewhat low, although not to an inconspicuous level. If I'm right, it would certainly explain why he's here, right? Marcus says as he focuses his mind briefly, tapping into Q's room in order to have a more private conversation with Katie.

As he does so, Marcus snaps the journal shut before gently handing it to Quicksilver. Mind holding on to this for a bit? Marcus asks, wishing that he could talk to Quicksilver in Q's room. The Weavile gives a curt nod in response, holding the journal loosely by his side as he keeps stride with Katie and Marcus.

So, how are you handling the loss yesterday? Marcus says, almost disinterestedly. After all, if the two of them just went silent things would seem more than a little suspicious. I can honestly say that's the first time I've been beaten that soundly, or at all, really. Despite this being a distraction conversation, the bitterness in Marcus' voice is readily apparent.

Let's Chronicle Marissa really quick!

Yes Marcus, brag more about how undefeatable you are, Katie said sarcastically. We wouldn't want anyone to know that Marcus of the Shooting Stars could ever lose to someone, would we? You knew Katie's nature enough by now to know that she was just teasing you, and you noticed a 'tapping' at your mental door in Q's room. It seemed Katie had gotten the hint.

I stand by my earlier statement, she thought in the room. In what world is Rayquaza interested in Hayle? It isn't like we have any sky related artifacts or locations other than this cursed place. Maybe it sees Leviathan as competition and wants to take it out?

Marissa had backed off when your 'conversation' turned to the days battling, but you weren't sure if she realized that she'd been made or not. She was still obviously aware of your presence, but wasn't pushing things.

[CosmicOccurence]

"That's what I'm talking about it's ridiculous!" Dominic says, banging his fist down on the bar. "Whoops, shouldn't do that." He has the wherewithal to look ashamed before looking sheepishly at Dale. "Could I uh... get one of what he's having?" He looks at Tiny. "I dunno, I want things to be better."

Dale rolls his eyes as he pours the starry night rum and coke down the drain and starts whipping up the rainbow drink. Tiny just laughs. I mean, that's our job as Primes right? Make the world a better place and all that jazz. It's just a toss up whether we'll get the chance or if Jamba's Primes will.

The drink came, and when you tasted it, it seemed to be berry flavored alcohol, though you didn't have enough experience to judge which type. Already you were starting to feel a bit looser, a bit tipsier.

[Arcran]

Yes Marcus, brag more about how undefeatable you are, Katie said sarcastically. We wouldn't want anyone to know that Marcus of the Shooting Stars could ever lose to someone, would we? You knew Katie's nature enough by now to know that she was just teasing you, and you noticed a 'tapping' at your mental door in Q's room. It seemed Katie had gotten the hint.

I stand by my earlier statement, she thought in the room. In what world is Rayquaza interested in Hayle? It isn't like we have any sky related artifacts or locations other than this cursed place. Maybe it sees Leviathan as competition and wants to take it out?

Marissa had backed off when your 'conversation' turned to the days battling, but you weren't sure if she realized that she'd been made or not. She was still obviously aware of your presence, but wasn't pushing things.



Peter and his patron, unfortunately, will have to be a conundrum for another day, Marcus says, with some genuine regret in his voice. What's slightly more important at this point is that Marissa is spying on us as well as concealing a symbol. Ring like Varro, which would keep us from spotting it. She's also been listening to us talking, and trying to sneak a peak at my notebooks. Best case, she's just cautious about her powers and trying to feel us out. Worst case, we found another Jamba Prime, or a rat for Varro. Since she approached Quicksilver yesterday, I'm assuming the latter. Just wanted to keep you in the loop. If others are in the room we'll have to pass the information on. Can you handle filling in Dominic?

Of course not! My dorm would never let me live it down! Marcus says with as much enthusiasm as he can muster, hoping the conversation was sufficiently dull enough.

[CosmicOccurence]

Peter and his patron, unfortunately, will have to be a conundrum for another day, Marcus says, with some genuine regret in his voice. What's slightly more important at this point is that Marissa is spying on us as well as concealing a symbol. Ring like Varro, which would keep us from spotting it. She's also been listening to us talking, and trying to sneak a peak at my notebooks. Best case, she's just cautious about her powers and trying to feel us out. Worst case, we found another Jamba Prime, or a rat for Varro. Since she approached Quicksilver yesterday, I'm assuming the latter. Just wanted to keep you in the loop. If others are in the room we'll have to pass the information on. Can you handle filling in Dominic?

Of course not! My dorm would never let me live it down! Marcus says with as much enthusiasm as he can muster, hoping the conversation was sufficiently dull enough.

Katie turned for just a second towards Marissa, but halfway through the motion she caught herself and went to scratch her hip like it had been her intention all along.

I don't know, she wasn't much of a threat today ... Katie thought. She lost to Puck, and while he's no pushover, I think we could probably take her. But yeah, I can tell Dominic. Speaking of which, why do you have so much beef with him? This whole, 'he's my brother' thing is really getting to my head.

when you made your living it off comment, Katie simply let out a tinkling laugh, waved goodbye, and floated back to another group. However, her mental voice was still in Q's room. Sorry, the whole two conversation thing was getting difficult. Besides, this way she'll think our conversation is over.

[Arcran]

Katie turned for just a second towards Marissa, but halfway through the motion she caught herself and went to scratch her hip like it had been her intention all along.

I don't know, she wasn't much of a threat today ... Katie thought. She lost to Puck, and while he's no pushover, I think we could probably take her. But yeah, I can tell Dominic. Speaking of which, why do you have so much beef with him? This whole, 'he's my brother' thing is really getting to my head.

when you made your living it off comment, Katie simply let out a tinkling laugh, waved goodbye, and floated back to another group. However, her mental voice was still in Q's room. Sorry, the whole two conversation thing was getting difficult. Besides, this way she'll think our conversation is over.


Marcus says a hasty goodbye as Katie walks away, before calling Quicksilver over and pretending to go through some of his notes with the Ice Cryptid while focusing on his conversation with Katie.

Good idea, Marcus says mentally, before giving the closest approximation of a sigh he can in the confines of Q's place. Long story short? I offered him my help, he spat in my face, tried to punch me, nearly got us attacked by one of the old Cryptids, and destroyed my shoes, Marcus says, trying to keep the bitterness out of his voice. I'm sure he'd try to justify all of that, but suffice to say that we have very different approaches to how we accomplish things.

Still, at least it seems the two of you get along, Marcus says, trying to steer the conversation away from why he doesn't like Dominic. The only thing worse than a surprise sibling would be a surprise sibling that you hate, right? Marcus adds, before chuckling. How did the two of you find out?

[Jacior]

Dominic thinks for a moment, hand gripping so tightly to his glass that it felt like it'd break. "That will never happen. I won't let it. There's nothing Jamba could ever do that will make the world better. Or even make up for what they've done to it already." He takes another sip out of the drink and leans against Tiny. "This is a lot better. Sorry for being... so aggressive about Jamba."

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic thinks for a moment, hand gripping so tightly to his glass that it felt like it'd break. "That will never happen. I won't let it. There's nothing Jamba could ever do that will make the world better. Or even make up for what they've done to it already." He takes another sip out of the drink and leans against Tiny. "This is a lot better. Sorry for being... so aggressive about Jamba."

Tiny gave a little start, but eventually settled into the side-snuggle. After a few minutes of talking, he even put his arm around you.

Of all the things to be aggressive about, Jamba isn't a bad thing to top the list. Do you have a specific history with them, or just what you've seen on the news? The Frontier Brain loaded you both up with another round of drinks as Pheleos takes shot after shot of what seems like liquid moonlight.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus says a hasty goodbye as Katie walks away, before calling Quicksilver over and pretending to go through some of his notes with the Ice Cryptid while focusing on his conversation with Katie.

Good idea, Marcus says mentally, before giving the closest approximation of a sigh he can in the confines of Q's place. Long story short? I offered him my help, he spat in my face, tried to punch me, nearly got us attacked by one of the old Cryptids, and destroyed my shoes, Marcus says, trying to keep the bitterness out of his voice. I'm sure he'd try to justify all of that, but suffice to say that we have very different approaches to how we accomplish things.

Still, at least it seems the two of you get along, Marcus says, trying to steer the conversation away from why he doesn't like Dominic. The only thing worse than a surprise sibling would be a surprise sibling that you hate, right? Marcus adds, before chuckling. How did the two of you find out?

Oh ... well that doesn't sound like a good time. she thought back. And apprantly Jamba has a dossier on all of the primes. Dominic got his hands on it when he was fighting a Bishop and saw a few pages. One of them happened to mention the Grass and Poison Primes were siblings. He saw me with my symbols and broke the news. Our parents ... well they didn't really have an answer that satisfied either of us, but at least they were honest then.

Honestly, it's the whole having a dad thing that's weirder than having a brother. He lived right around the block and never said anything. I just don't get it.

[Arcran]

Oh ... well that doesn't sound like a good time. she thought back. And apprantly Jamba has a dossier on all of the primes. Dominic got his hands on it when he was fighting a Bishop and saw a few pages. One of them happened to mention the Grass and Poison Primes were siblings. He saw me with my symbols and broke the news. Our parents ... well they didn't really have an answer that satisfied either of us, but at least they were honest then.

Honestly, it's the whole having a dad thing that's weirder than having a brother. He lived right around the block and never said anything. I just don't get it.



I'm sure they had a good reason, Marcus says, briefly trying to figure out what exactly that reason might be, before something dawns on him.

Is there any chance that they could have known you and Dominic would become Primes? They could have been trying to hide you as best as they were able. Marcus is partly wondering this for his own reasons, of course. After all, if there was a way to identify potential Primes other than their symbols it could help him find the few Primes that he's currently missing.

[CosmicOccurence]

I'm sure they had a good reason, Marcus says, briefly trying to figure out what exactly that reason might be, before something dawns on him.

Is there any chance that they could have known you and Dominic would become Primes? They could have been trying to hide you as best as they were able. Marcus is partly wondering this for his own reasons, of course. After all, if there was a way to identify potential Primes other than their symbols it could help him find the few Primes that he's currently missing.

Katie paused. You know ... I have no idea. Do you think we've had the symbols forever and just couldn't see them until our powers awakened? That would explain how Jamba reached some of the Primes so quickly, but I feel like they would have just kidnapped the babies and raised them as their own or something peverse like that,

As Katie was talk/thinking at you, you noticed Marissa bend over to look at what appeared to be a robotic pichu that had joined your group. As she did, a small pocketbook slipped out of the back pocket of her jeans and fell to the floor. You were both near the back of the group, and she walked on without noticing what had happening, leaving you as the only person to see it happen other than the guards, who didn't seem like they cared as long as you stayed in the yellow lines. Even Katie was ahead of Marissa and didn't notice it happen.

[Arcran]

Katie paused. You know ... I have no idea. Do you think we've had the symbols forever and just couldn't see them until our powers awakened? That would explain how Jamba reached some of the Primes so quickly, but I feel like they would have just kidnapped the babies and raised them as their own or something peverse like that,

As Katie was talk/thinking at you, you noticed Marissa bend over to look at what appeared to be a robotic pichu that had joined your group. As she did, a small pocketbook slipped out of the back pocket of her jeans and fell to the floor. You were both near the back of the group, and she walked on without noticing what had happening, leaving you as the only person to see it happen other than the guards, who didn't seem like they cared as long as you stayed in the yellow lines. Even Katie was ahead of Marissa and didn't notice it happen.

Marcus just barely stops himself from physically shaking his head. I wish that this whole Prime thing came with a rulebook. Mukking Chosen of Uxie and I'm still almost as in the dark as I was day one, Marcus says with a mental sigh, before being yanked out of the mental chatspace by Marissa dropping the book. Behind his glasses Marcus' eyes dart around rapidly, trying to figure out the best plan of action here. From the way it had fallen, it was either an accident or Marissa was damn good at staying hidden. However, Katie hadn't noticed her tailing the two of them, so Marcus had the sneaking suspicion that, if Marissa wanted to, she could certainly pull of a feat like that.

There was also, of course, the guards. If Marissa was in league with Varro, they would likely inform her of the dropped journal. Still, what was the worst that could happen? She'd be aware of the fact that Marcus had taken the book, which wouldn't give her that much information. After all, all he'd done is pick up her book, right?

As Marcus walks, he pretends to stumble, before picking up the book on the ground as subtly as possible. Not that it really mattered; after all. The guards would see him almost definitely, and everybody else was ahead of him. Marcus puts away his current journal, before he begins reading Marissa's, starting at the last written page.

Going to Studies in Scarlet Marissa right goddamn now!

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus just barely stops himself from physically shaking his head. I wish that this whole Prime thing came with a rulebook. Mukking Chosen of Uxie and I'm still almost as in the dark as I was day one, Marcus says with a mental sigh, before being yanked out of the mental chatspace by Marissa dropping the book. Behind his glasses Marcus' eyes dart around rapidly, trying to figure out the best plan of action here. From the way it had fallen, it was either an accident or Marissa was damn good at staying hidden. However, Katie hadn't noticed her tailing the two of them, so Marcus had the sneaking suspicion that, if Marissa wanted to, she could certainly pull of a feat like that.

There was also, of course, the guards. If Marissa was in league with Varro, they would likely inform her of the dropped journal. Still, what was the worst that could happen? She'd be aware of the fact that Marcus had taken the book, which wouldn't give her that much information. After all, all he'd done is pick up her book, right?

As Marcus walks, he pretends to stumble, before picking up the book on the ground as subtly as possible. Not that it really mattered; after all. The guards would see him almost definitely, and everybody else was ahead of him. Marcus puts away his current journal, before he begins reading Marissa's, starting at the last written page.

Going to Studies in Scarlet Marissa right goddamn now!

Marissa hadn't written a ton in the notebook, and the dates on the front indicated that she'd started it on the day when she'd arrived on the ship. The last few pages were what appeared to be a relatively detailed map of the Leviathan. You immediately recognized the 1st and 2nd floor, the former containing the landing pad, dormitories and the power generator, and the latter with the battle arenas, workshop store, and auditorium.

However, much more interesting were the maps of the 3rd and 4th floors. The third floor, which you were on now, looked from above to be an intentionally confusing maze of passages that you were travelling through. There were quite a few ways to get up here from the second floor, most of them labelled as hidden entrances on the second floor for staff to use. It had basically the entire R&D department, with all the rooms that you'd seen.

However, it seemed that Seven had skipped a few rooms on her tour. Most notably, there was a room labeled M.I.N.T. Tech, tucked into the corner, close(ish) to where you'd been at the prosthetics lab. There was also a virtual reality simulation lab and an artificial life/fabricated pokemon lab along with some others you hadn't seen. All three labs had a symbol that when you looked at the key meant 'guards 24/7' to show they were high priority labs to protect from interlopers.

The 4th floor had only one point of entrance, and seemed to be Marissa's focus. She'd written in the margins Distraction Wednesday Evening to draw guards? along with a time that showed that something would be happening tomorrow evening around 9. When you went over the schedule in your head, there was supposed to be a feast featuring a popular molecular gastronomy chef from Central.

The 4th floor was smaller than the others, with a blowhole exit to the outside world, Varro's personal quarters, another power generation room that was much smaller than the other one, and a room labeled 'Varro's personal lab' and three letters, scrawled P.T.M.

Sorry for not actually drawing it out, but please let me know with any questions you have of the map

[Jacior]

Dominic tries not to show his slowly reddening face. Only realizing what he'd done by leaning into Tiny after his arm was a around him. "U-uh. Well, like, first day being a trainer they tried to steal one of my pokemon, and then I fought with Glass in her secret lair, she beat me pretty bad, then uh... you remember that attack on the Ranch? I was there. There's uh... well lets say my dad is OK because I fought Jamba off there. And then... well... I dunno how closely you follow the news really... me and Katie have been raiding Jamba Bases all over. Not really found anyone important, but we've been making sure to get them all before we leave." He sighs and drinks some more of the delightfully fruity drink.

"It's a little personal, I have to say."

[CosmicOccurence]

The figure on the other side of Tiny, Pheleos was drinking from a glass of clear liquid. She was using her hand that wasn't covered in the overly long sleeve, and up close you noticed a hair pin in her white hair shaped like a Shuppet.

I wouldn't bank on this place being an escape from Jamba if that's what you were hoping, she said. In fact, you might even call this one of their most important bases.

[Arcran]

Marcus stares at the map for a long moment, trying to take in all the details, especially the layout. Marcus' mind goes almost instantly to trying to figure out how to use the distraction tomorrow night to his advantage. From appearances, it looked like Marissa was going to try to get into Varro's lab. If he was smart, he could use her for information without putting himself at any significant risk. That would, however, require beating the more conventional security. He would give quite a bit to see the inside of the M.I.N.T. labs, as well as figuring out what P.T.M. was. He had a sinking suspicion the 'P' stood for Prime, which made him automatically suspicious.

Either way, Marcus hands the book off the Quicksilver, then nods towards Marissa. The Weavile heads towards the girl, before depositing the book back in her bag with flawless execution.

We're going to Chronicle the map just to remember it!

[Jacior]

Dominic looks over at Pheleos. "... And I guess that means you're spying on us? I'm really not stupid, despite what a lot of people seem to think." With a little effort, he pulled on that muscle in the back of his head that let him see Symbols and other weird things. "Are you here to threaten and forewarn us of a horrible fate in store for us or like... I dunno, I kinda wasn't expecting this." One of his hands fiddled with his pokeballs, it was only courtesy he had been keeping Arlo in today and it was maybe starting to feel like a bad idea.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus stares at the map for a long moment, trying to take in all the details, especially the layout. Marcus' mind goes almost instantly to trying to figure out how to use the distraction tomorrow night to his advantage. From appearances, it looked like Marissa was going to try to get into Varro's lab. If he was smart, he could use her for information without putting himself at any significant risk. That would, however, require beating the more conventional security. He would give quite a bit to see the inside of the M.I.N.T. labs, as well as figuring out what P.T.M. was. He had a sinking suspicion the 'P' stood for Prime, which made him automatically suspicious.

Either way, Marcus hands the book off the Quicksilver, then nods towards Marissa. The Weavile heads towards the girl, before depositing the book back in her bag with flawless execution.

We're going to Chronicle the map just to remember it!

Marissa didn't even flinch as the book was slid back into her pocket. Quicksilver was stealthy as ever, which might be expected from an assassin. You heard Katie buzzing at your mental headspace, trying to figure out why you'd gone silent all of a sudden.

[CosmicOccurence]

Dominic looks over at Pheleos. "... And I guess that means you're spying on us? I'm really not stupid, despite what a lot of people seem to think." With a little effort, he pulled on that muscle in the back of his head that let him see Symbols and other weird things. "Are you here to threaten and forewarn us of a horrible fate in store for us or like... I dunno, I kinda wasn't expecting this." One of his hands fiddled with his pokeballs, it was only courtesy he had been keeping Arlo in today and it was maybe starting to feel like a bad idea.

Pheleos shrugged. I guess I don't really consider it spying when both of you sat next to me. Bars are for talking and meeting people right? Dale raised a glass in toast to the sentiment as Pheleos brushed her hair out of her face.

That being said I do have a bit of a flair for melodrama. Not exactly my best trait, but what can you do? She sighed for a second before continuing. Let's just say I wanted to pass on a warning to one of my fellow Primes, though you probably can't see my symbol right now. Bug here. I'm pretty sure someone from your group of friends are in danger here, but I'm not sure which one. There were quite a few marked by the big guy in your group, but you two seemed the most approachable.

If you'd rather I talk to someone else about it I can go find one of the others.

Tiny hadn't really responded, but you could tell that he was listening carefully and had at least some interest in what the woman had to say.

[Arcran]

Marissa didn't even flinch as the book was slid back into her pocket. Quicksilver was stealthy as ever, which might be expected from an assassin. You heard Katie buzzing at your mental headspace, trying to figure out why you'd gone silent all of a sudden.



Sorry, Marcus says, going back to taking notes on his surroundings. I was getting my hands on Marissa's notebook. She had a pretty detailed map of the place, along with a few notes. Might have a chance to actually explore tomorrow evening. I don't suppose P.T.M. means anything to you, does it? Marcus asks, still trying to figure out what the hell that note could possibly be referencing.

Either way, if the distraction went off properly, he'd likely have a chance to get to the M.I.N.T. labs or Varro's, but not both. It wasn't like he could be in two places at once...

Marcus gives Quicksilver a sidelong glance, earning him a confused look from the Weavile. If he did this right, well, he'd find out a hell about Varro's operation with minimal risk to himself.

Either way, I think it's safe to say she isn't on Varro's side, although that hardly means she's on ours. Think it would be worth asking about the ring? Marcus asks, slowly increasing his walking speed to catch up with Marissa. It was pushing his luck, but if she was a potential ally he couldn't pass up the opportunity.

[CosmicOccurence]

Sorry, Marcus says, going back to taking notes on his surroundings. I was getting my hands on Marissa's notebook. She had a pretty detailed map of the place, along with a few notes. Might have a chance to actually explore tomorrow evening. I don't suppose P.T.M. means anything to you, does it? Marcus asks, still trying to figure out what the hell that note could possibly be referencing.

Either way, if the distraction went off properly, he'd likely have a chance to get to the M.I.N.T. labs or Varro's, but not both. It wasn't like he could be in two places at once...

Marcus gives Quicksilver a sidelong glance, earning him a confused look from the Weavile. If he did this right, well, he'd find out a hell about Varro's operation with minimal risk to himself.

Either way, I think it's safe to say she isn't on Varro's side, although that hardly means she's on ours. Think it would be worth asking about the ring? Marcus asks, slowly increasing his walking speed to catch up with Marissa. It was pushing his luck, but if she was a potential ally he couldn't pass up the opportunity.

PTM, no it doesn't mean anything to me. Although it begs the question why she's here now if she already has a map. Maybe recon?

As for talking with her, that's up to you. It isn't like us knowing her secret gets us anything, so even if she ends up being an enemy, more information is better than less, right?

[Arcran]

PTM, no it doesn't mean anything to me. Although it begs the question why she's here now if she already has a map. Maybe recon?

As for talking with her, that's up to you. It isn't like us knowing her secret gets us anything, so even if she ends up being an enemy, more information is better than less, right?



If I end up murdered in her cabin, I'm blaming you, Marcus says with only a hint of sarcasm as he tries to pull up even with Marissa.

What do you think of the tour so far? Marcus asks conversationally, figuring that instantly confronting Marissa about the ring would doom this conversation from the start.

[CosmicOccurence]

If I end up murdered in her cabin, I'm blaming you, Marcus says with only a hint of sarcasm as he tries to pull up even with Marissa.

What do you think of the tour so far? Marcus asks conversationally, figuring that instantly confronting Marissa about the ring would doom this conversation from the start.

Hmm? Oh hello Marcus, she said. She sounded a bit wary when she spoke, probably because of quicksilver's interaction with her on the very first day. I'm a bit disappointed to be honest. I mean, it's impressive, but nothing here could top the idea that we're in a flying Wailord, you know?

[Arcran]

Hmm? Oh hello Marcus, she said. She sounded a bit wary when she spoke, probably because of quicksilver's interaction with her on the very first day. I'm a bit disappointed to be honest. I mean, it's impressive, but nothing here could top the idea that we're in a flying Wailord, you know?


Right Marcus says, genuine disappointment in his voice. The Pokebots were interesting, but Varro has to have much more interesting technology, right? None of us came up here to see how he made his Pokeballs, right? Hopefully Seven's lab will be a bit more interesting. I do have to wonder if she just has fifty random Mega Stones waiting up there for all the Trainers that never made it off the ground, Marcus muses, before letting his gaze drift towards Marissa's ring.

Speaking of Seven's shop, you've been busy. How did you manage to get that many points this quickly? Marcus says, nodding towards it. I'd rather enjoy one of those myself, but they're just so expensive.

[CosmicOccurence]

Right Marcus says, genuine disappointment in his voice. The Pokebots were interesting, but Varro has to have much more interesting technology, right? None of us came up here to see how he made his Pokeballs, right? Hopefully Seven's lab will be a bit more interesting. I do have to wonder if she just has fifty random Mega Stones waiting up there for all the Trainers that never made it off the ground, Marcus muses, before letting his gaze drift towards Marissa's ring.

Speaking of Seven's shop, you've been busy. How did you manage to get that many points this quickly? Marcus says, nodding towards it. I'd rather enjoy one of those myself, but they're just so expensive.

Oh this? she said, holding up the ring. I managed to get my hands on one before I came here. This isn't one of Varro's though. There's a coven of Witches in Zahaard who can cast magic to block our aura from emanating out. I happened to use a metal ring, but the designs are the same between theirs and Varro's. I'm assuming the pattern has something to do with its effectiveness, but item crafting isn't really my cup of tea.

It sort of defeats the purpose if everyone else just sees it and recognizes what it means though ... she sighed.

[Arcran]

Hey, at least it keeps everybody from knowing exactly who's on your side, right? Marcus says, trying to sound upbeat. Anybody with the right kind of eyes can tell exactly where I'm coming from, Marcus says, with some honest bitterness in his voice.

Which, if you've checked mine, I'm sure you won't begrudge me asking who your ally is? Marcus says, obviously referring to the Uxie symbol over his head. I won't tell anybody, Trainer's honor, Marcus says with an awkward grin.

[CosmicOccurence]

Hey, at least it keeps everybody from knowing exactly who's on your side, right? Marcus says, trying to sound upbeat. Anybody with the right kind of eyes can tell exactly where I'm coming from, Marcus says, with some honest bitterness in his voice.

Which, if you've checked mine, I'm sure you won't begrudge me asking who your ally is? Marcus says, obviously referring to the Uxie symbol over his head. I won't tell anybody, Trainer's honor, Marcus says with an awkward grin.

You're asking for a lot of trust from me, she said. Considering your own deceptions with your Cryptid you've already shown a willingness to bend reality to your liking. And, I have no way of knowing whether or not you're Jamba, League, Varro, or unaffiliated.

One of us has already died and I don't intend to become the second. Sorry if this is blunt, but you're going to need a pretty good argument on why I should reveal anything about myself or my potential skills. And you not having a ring to hide your affiliations isn't going to cut it. She seemed pretty determined in this. It reminded you a bit of when you'd first captured Icon. The Nidoran hadn't tried to be mean, he was just trying to survive without his mother. Marissa gave off the same vibes.

If you're going to try and convince her, I'll need a social skills roll depending on your strategy. Chronicler bonuses of course apply, and I'll give you a situational bonus/penalty for rp of said tactic (if you want to go a pure logic route, use general edu)

[Arcran]

You're asking for a lot of trust from me, she said. Considering your own deceptions with your Cryptid you've already shown a willingness to bend reality to your liking. And, I have no way of knowing whether or not you're Jamba, League, Varro, or unaffiliated.

One of us has already died and I don't intend to become the second. Sorry if this is blunt, but you're going to need a pretty good argument on why I should reveal anything about myself or my potential skills. And you not having a ring to hide your affiliations isn't going to cut it. She seemed pretty determined in this. It reminded you a bit of when you'd first captured Icon. The Nidoran hadn't tried to be mean, he was just trying to survive without his mother. Marissa gave off the same vibes.

If you're going to try and convince her, I'll need a social skills roll depending on your strategy. Chronicler bonuses of course apply, and I'll give you a situational bonus/penalty for rp of said tactic (if you want to go a pure logic route, use general edu)

Marcus bites his tongue for a moment, thinking. Marissa obviously knew quite a bit, especially if she knew about Raymond. If she was actually a Prime, and not playing him, he could hardly pass up the opportunity for another ally.

As he mulls things over, Marcus starts to weigh his options, before realizing that, just this once, the truth was an option that couldn't hurt him. There were two people that shouldn't know that he freed Tesla: Varro, and Jamba. Since they were one and the same, and Varro seemed to already know, there wasn't anybody else that it would hurt to understand. Marcus nudges his glasses slightly upward, before glancing at Marissa.

Raymond, the Electric Prime, Marcus says reverently, his voice soft. Attacked by Jamba goons, and his Cryptid taken, coincidentally around the time that the Varro Corporation opened a new power plant, Marcus states, making a conscious effort to keep his voice low.

I honestly don't know what I could tell you that would make you trust me. That you need to look out for Water and Ghost? There's a decent chance you already know that, Marcus says, having a difficult time getting the words out. The one thing that I can tell you with absolute certainty is that I have done more to preserve Raymond and Tesla's legacy than anybody else on this damned ship, and probably in this entire damned region. If you want to make it out of this alive, I am the single most important person you can have on your side, Marcus says, making sure to make eye contact with Marissa as he says that, his voice flat and serious, as if he is reciting a fact rather than stating an opinion. The moment is ruined slightly by Marcus coughing slightly, before turning to look at Marissa again.

If you're going to make me pick a side, I'm on the side of the Primes, Marcus says, finding it somewhat odd to finally vocalize that. I guess all I need to know now is what side you're on.

Time to break out the big guns. I am going to use my last Daily use of Cinematic Analysis for Character Study. Effect below.

"You may trigger Character Study when you or an ally makes a Charm, Command, Guile, Intimidate, or Intuition Check targeting the subject of your Record. Make a Perception Check and substitute the triggering Skill Check with the result."

So, for whatever Skill this is: [roll0]

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus bites his tongue for a moment, thinking. Marissa obviously knew quite a bit, especially if she knew about Raymond. If she was actually a Prime, and not playing him, he could hardly pass up the opportunity for another ally.

As he mulls things over, Marcus starts to weigh his options, before realizing that, just this once, the truth was an option that couldn't hurt him. There were two people that shouldn't know that he freed Tesla: Varro, and Jamba. Since they were one and the same, and Varro seemed to already know, there wasn't anybody else that it would hurt to understand. Marcus nudges his glasses slightly upward, before glancing at Marissa.

Raymond, the Electric Prime, Marcus says reverently, his voice soft. Attacked by Jamba goons, and his Cryptid taken, coincidentally around the time that the Varro Corporation opened a new power plant, Marcus states, making a conscious effort to keep his voice low.

I honestly don't know what I could tell you that would make you trust me. That you need to look out for Water and Ghost? There's a decent chance you already know that, Marcus says, having a difficult time getting the words out. The one thing that I can tell you with absolute certainty is that I have done more to preserve Raymond and Tesla's legacy than anybody else on this damned ship, and probably in this entire damned region. If you want to make it out of this alive, I am the single most important person you can have on your side, Marcus says, making sure to make eye contact with Marissa as he says that, his voice flat and serious, as if he is reciting a fact rather than stating an opinion. The moment is ruined slightly by Marcus coughing slightly, before turning to look at Marissa again.

If you're going to make me pick a side, I'm on the side of the Primes, Marcus says, finding it somewhat odd to finally vocalize that. I guess all I need to know now is what side you're on.

Time to break out the big guns. I am going to use my last Daily use of Cinematic Analysis for Character Study. Effect below.

"You may trigger Character Study when you or an ally makes a Charm, Command, Guile, Intimidate, or Intuition Check targeting the subject of your Record. Make a Perception Check and substitute the triggering Skill Check with the result."

So, for whatever Skill this is: [roll0]

Marissa stared at you for a long moment. The side of the Primes huh? I guess I can't call us allies, but you probably aren't my enemy. I'm Normal. Otherwise unaffiliated. And I'm sure you'll meet my partner before this is all over, but she's a bit busy right now, otherwise I'd introduce her.

She sighed. Sorry if I'm being difficult, but generally speaking I've found very few people in my life are actually on my side. And by very few I mean practically none.

[Jacior]

"I'd put money on it being Marcus. But I admit personal bias in that so maybe not the best judge." Dominic says, swirling the rainbow colors around in his glass. "Always seems like he's in the middle of something that's supposed to be more important than whatever you're doing anyway. Like... no matter how hard you try, he's just... 4 steps ahead on something bigger and has the time to casually stop you all the while." His face turned dark. "I guess hard work only gets you so far without some sort of natural talent to back it up."

He looks up back at Pheleos. "Sorry, little off topic. Something about a warning?"

[Arcran]

Marissa stared at you for a long moment. The side of the Primes huh? I guess I can't call us allies, but you probably aren't my enemy. I'm Normal. Otherwise unaffiliated. And I'm sure you'll meet my partner before this is all over, but she's a bit busy right now, otherwise I'd introduce her.

She sighed. Sorry if I'm being difficult, but generally speaking I've found very few people in my life are actually on my side. And by very few I mean practically none.

I can understand that, Marcus says, thinking back to when he was younger. If you're just in it for yourself, that's fine, but you're going to want allies. The other side has a few less scruples when it comes to recruiting, Marcus says, trying to make the statement sound ominous but non-threating. If you want to talk more, come by my room later. Maybe we can talk with some semblance of privacy there, Marcus says, still keeping his voice low.

If you're being honest, we can probably offer one another quite a bit, Marcus says, looking straight ahead. I just hope you are, Marcus says, before speeding up slightly, once again pulling out his journal as he goes back to taking notes.

Well, I may have found the Normal Prime, Marcus says in his mind, after first checking that it was only Katie or other known people in the chatroom.

[CosmicOccurence]

"I'd put money on it being Marcus. But I admit personal bias in that so maybe not the best judge." Dominic says, swirling the rainbow colors around in his glass. "Always seems like he's in the middle of something that's supposed to be more important than whatever you're doing anyway. Like... no matter how hard you try, he's just... 4 steps ahead on something bigger and has the time to casually stop you all the while." His face turned dark. "I guess hard work only gets you so far without some sort of natural talent to back it up."

He looks up back at Pheleos. "Sorry, little off topic. Something about a warning?"

Pheleos removed a sheaf of paper from her bag and pushed it towards you. Let's just say that this is the reason why I'm here, even though its a reason that I should stay far, far away. This is something that my friends and I managed to steal off of a Jamba Bishop last month in Central.

Its schematics for a machine made by Varro. It's called the Prime Transfer Machine, or PTM. Basically it can 'suck' Arceus's blessing out of you and transfer it to another person. It speculates that this would even force your Cryptid to follow the orders of the new Prime even if they didn't want to.

I think Varro created the machine in order to give himself Prime status to fit his Cryptid, but its clear that Jamba has their eyes on it too. Apparently they would rather steal a prime's power and give it to one of their members instead of actually convincing people to join their messed up cause.

However, its linked pretty heavily to the ship and thew power supply here, so they can only use it as long as people are on board, and it takes 24 hours to recharge before it can be used again, so they've got to pick and choose who they use it on while they're on this ship. Considering you all have a ton of different Primes in your group and seem to be pretty actively against them, I'm sure that they'll come after one of you.
I've kept a pretty low profile and have a masking ring, so I doubt they know who I am, but you all are in a ton of danger.

The sheaf of papers was pretty tech heavy, but you could make sense of most of it. It was printed on official Varro stationary with a large number of annotations in large, loopy handwriting that looks like it came from a historical document. The information in the annotations implied that Jamba had gotten their hands on the document. It also had a map of where it was located in the ship, right up on the 4th floor near Varro's personal quarters. To get there you'd have to make it past a few guards, but there was a way up.

Just didn't want to see any of us left over like the Electric Prime you know? Because once they're stripped you of your power, there isn't much use for them to get out of you. You'll have become a loose end.

[CosmicOccurence]

I can understand that, Marcus says, thinking back to when he was younger. If you're just in it for yourself, that's fine, but you're going to want allies. The other side has a few less scruples when it comes to recruiting, Marcus says, trying to make the statement sound ominous but non-threating. If you want to talk more, come by my room later. Maybe we can talk with some semblance of privacy there, Marcus says, still keeping his voice low.

If you're being honest, we can probably offer one another quite a bit, Marcus says, looking straight ahead. I just hope you are, Marcus says, before speeding up slightly, once again pulling out his journal as he goes back to taking notes.

Well, I may have found the Normal Prime, Marcus says in his mind, after first checking that it was only Katie or other known people in the chatroom.

I think you'll find that our world isn't a very honest one Marcus, she said as she walked up towards the front of the group. Nor is it a fair one. Life is a series of choices, and each one brings us closer and closer to our own personal truth. In the end I'm just trying to help others like me, but thank you for your words. It does mean a lot.

And then she was gone, up in the front of the group avoiding you.

Really??? Katie thought to you. Did she seem like she could be an ally? What's her Cryptid? Do you think she's one of the ones working for Jamba? Did she notice about the whole notebook thing?

[Arcran]

I think you'll find that our world isn't a very honest one Marcus, she said as she walked up towards the front of the group. Nor is it a fair one. Life is a series of choices, and each one brings us closer and closer to our own personal truth. In the end I'm just trying to help others like me, but thank you for your words. It does mean a lot.

And then she was gone, up in the front of the group avoiding you.

Really??? Katie thought to you. Did she seem like she could be an ally? What's her Cryptid? Do you think she's one of the ones working for Jamba? Did she notice about the whole notebook thing?



Marcus nods as Marissa leaves, trying to process that last little bit. It seemed ominous, and removed a small amount of the fragile trust Marcus had for the girl. Without knowing her personal truth, he had no idea what her next move might be?

In order: Yes, maybe, I have no idea, maybe, and it appears not, Marcus says. She seems like she's in it for herself, but she knew about Raymond. That either means she's Jamba or she's been trying to keep a close eye on the other Primes. I'm going to try to talk to her later, see if I can get a bit more information. How are you at reading people? Marcus asks. I wouldn't mind some help figuring out what she knows.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus nods as Marissa leaves, trying to process that last little bit. It seemed ominous, and removed a small amount of the fragile trust Marcus had for the girl. Without knowing her personal truth, he had no idea what her next move might be?

In order: Yes, maybe, I have no idea, maybe, and it appears not, Marcus says. She seems like she's in it for herself, but she knew about Raymond. That either means she's Jamba or she's been trying to keep a close eye on the other Primes. I'm going to try to talk to her later, see if I can get a bit more information. How are you at reading people? Marcus asks. I wouldn't mind some help figuring out what she knows.

Pretty good, yeah, though my mom did manage to lie to my face for a decade and a half, so that should tell you something.

The rest of the tour passed rather uneventfully, and you and Katie returned to your room to see if Marissa would show up. So, if she does show up, what are you hoping to accomplish? Just get more intel?

[Arcran]

Pretty good, yeah, though my mom did manage to lie to my face for a decade and a half, so that should tell you something.

The rest of the tour passed rather uneventfully, and you and Katie returned to your room to see if Marissa would show up. So, if she does show up, what are you hoping to accomplish? Just get more intel?



Marcus snorts at Katie's comment, before hoping that nobody noticed the outburst.

To say that the rest of the tour was a disappointment was a massive understatement. The only thing that Marcus had been somewhat looking forward to at this point was Seven's lab, and even that proved to be uneventful.

More or less. She's one of the few people I don't know, which makes her an unknown, Marcus says, before touching his head. We have no idea where Varro has cameras and microphones. If we can figure out her allies, what her Prime is, and what her plans are we'll be in a good spot. I'll also ask her about the PTM if she doesn't bring it up; I have the sinking feeling that the 'P' has to be Prime, and unless it's 'Tickling Machine' I don't want to know what Varro has built. The only ones that make sense are Transfer Machine and, well, that sounds unpleasant.

[Jacior]

"Well... we should totally go break this right? Like... I dunno about you but wrecking Jamba's stuff is kinda my jam." He looks up at Tiny after going through the sheaf of papers. "Like... we could probably get there before Varro could stop us if we go fast. I bet Katie would jump on board too. Maybe even grab a couple others... though we probably shouldn't involve Marcus just sayin..." It was only then that Dominic heard what Pheleos had said.

"What happened to the electric prime?"

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus snorts at Katie's comment, before hoping that nobody noticed the outburst.

To say that the rest of the tour was a disappointment was a massive understatement. The only thing that Marcus had been somewhat looking forward to at this point was Seven's lab, and even that proved to be uneventful.

More or less. She's one of the few people I don't know, which makes her an unknown, Marcus says, before touching his head. We have no idea where Varro has cameras and microphones. If we can figure out her allies, what her Prime is, and what her plans are we'll be in a good spot. I'll also ask her about the PTM if she doesn't bring it up; I have the sinking feeling that the 'P' has to be Prime, and unless it's 'Tickling Machine' I don't want to know what Varro has built. The only ones that make sense are Transfer Machine and, well, that sounds unpleasant.

Prime Transfer Machine? Katie thought back at you, You don't think that they'd - but her thought talk suddenly stopped when she was interrupted by a knock at the door.

Seems like your company has arrived just on time, Katie thought.

You can go ahead and assume its Marissa

[CosmicOccurence]

"Well... we should totally go break this right? Like... I dunno about you but wrecking Jamba's stuff is kinda my jam." He looks up at Tiny after going through the sheaf of papers. "Like... we could probably get there before Varro could stop us if we go fast. I bet Katie would jump on board too. Maybe even grab a couple others... though we probably shouldn't involve Marcus just sayin..." It was only then that Dominic heard what Pheleos had said.

"What happened to the electric prime?"

Dead Pheleos said. Killed by Jamba operatives as part of their alliance with Varro.
They wanted the Electric Cryptid, not the Prime, so they just took what they wanted. Someone destroyed the power plant where they were keeping him though, and rescued the Cryptid, so I'm not exactly sure how they're planning to power the machine now, but I'm sure they have a way.

She took another sip of her drink. As for destroying it, that's what I was rather hoping to discuss. My team and I are planning on causing a rather large disruption during the festivities tomorrow that will draw attention away from other parts of the ship. My Cryptid will be responsible for locking up their assets and giving my team and I an escape route and places to bunker down when we reach the ground again. You all should take that opportunity to destroy the thing.

Just be careful who you trust, ok? I'm still a bit unsure about you, but I had to take a risk on someone. You can never be too careful with who might be working for the enemy.

[Arcran]

Prime Transfer Machine? Katie thought back at you, You don't think that they'd - but her thought talk suddenly stopped when she was interrupted by a knock at the door.

Seems like your company has arrived just on time, Katie thought.

You can go ahead and assume its Marissa



Marcus nods at his double, prompting Quicksilver to open the door. Two small, shimmering specs of light were hanging around the room, which with close inspection looked very similar to Cryogonal, albeit on a miniature scale.

[Jacior]

"Uh... any chance that can wait until after they've given out points I had my eye on some stuff..." Dominic asks awkwardly. "That sounds really dumb and selfish actually nevermind." He sips awkwardly on his drink, face brightening a little in embarrassment.

[CosmicOccurence]

Marcus nods at his double, prompting Quicksilver to open the door. Two small, shimmering specs of light were hanging around the room, which with close inspection looked very similar to Cryogonal, albeit on a miniature scale.

Hey, said Marissa. She'd changed, her hair wasn't her standard frizzy mess, so obviously she'd taken a shower. She now had on a jacket and another CSI Vermillion shirt with a pair of cropped shorts.

I see you've got one of your friends along. I assume she already knows everything I told you. Marissa didn't seem terribly happy about it, but Katie, ever the fiery one, chimed in.

Yes she does know. The name's Katie, Poison, obviously. My cryptid sucks blood out of its enemies, so I don't use him in battle much. It can get pretty dangerous. He's also learning to split his body into a swarm of small Zubats for reconnaissance. Is that enough information for you to trust me?

Marissa's eyebrows flew up, but she didn't reply. Instead she took a seat at one of the tables and turned her attention back to you.