Surrender Now, or Prepare to Fight IC II

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly White is a Pokemon Trainer who has spent the last month on a Pokemon journey! She's visited towns all over the Johto region. Recently, she made friends with another Pokemon Trainer named Ethan, who has five Badges out of the eight needed to challenge the Elite Four. Holly herself has two Badges, having overcome the garden of poison at the Azalea Town Gym and barely managing to defeat Whitney's Miltank twice in the Goldenrod City Gym. Along the way, Holly made friends with many Pokemon, including Vincent, her Poliwhirl, and Vickie, her Weepinbell. For some reason, Holly has noticed her Pokemon evolve especially quickly compared to other Trainers, which Professor Elm speculates may be part of the happiness evolution that has recently been discovered. It seems that Holly inspires more motivation in her Pokemon than most Trainers, somehow.

Holly has crossed paths with dangerous villains known as Team Rocket. She met them in Cherrygrove City, defeated them at Sprout Tower, stopped them at Slowpoke Well, chased them through Ilex Forest, cornered them at the Goldenrod City Gym, and most recently kicked them out of the Burned Tower. Come to think of it...Team Rocket has been in every town that Holly has entered. Except Olivine City, as far as she can tell.

Having imprisoned the villains Koshiro and Musashi, powerful Rocket admins from Kanto, Holly breathes a sigh of relief as she and Ethan return to her hometown of Olivine City. She spends some time with her father before there is a knock on her front door.

Curious, Holly goes to open it. She reveals her best friend, Jasmine, standing at the door in a stunning lavender cocktail dress.

Jasmine's shy smile quickly morphs into an O of shock and her cheeks turn beet red. "H-Holly?! What are you doing here?" she cries. Jasmine is speaking at a normal volume for anyone else, which is practically shouting coming from her.

[Diachronos]

Holly stares at Jasmine. "I... came back to visit my dad. Were you coming to see him today too?"

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine gulps. "I...um...well, I was just...wondering if he would...like some company today." She clears her throat awkwardly.

[Diachronos]

"Oh... um... if you want I can head out for a bit."

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine shakes her head. "No! Not at all! But why didn't you call me if you were coming to Olivine? Forget how your PokeGear works?" she teases with a smile.

[Diachronos]

"No, I've just had a lot on my mind. Sorry I didn't give you a heads-up..." She relays what's been happening, and about her close call with the flock of bird Pokemon outside Goldenrod.

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine nods after a moment. "Hmm... I don't normally do this, but if you have a male Pokemon that is compatible with Ampharos, I can let him go visit Amphy...that should give you a Pokemon egg that will hatch into a Mareep that knows Discharge..."

[Diachronos]

Holly frowns. "How do I know what is and isn't compatible, though?"

[NeoSeraphi]

"It needs to be a Pokemon that is similar to Ampharos. Maybe the same type. or the same build, or the same habitat that they live in."

[Diachronos]

"Hm... maybe a Growlithe?"

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine nods. "Great! Then, why don't we take your Growlithe to see Amphy and then I can come back here and cook dinner for your father?"

[Diachronos]

"That sounds good to me. I'm eager to see Amphy again, too."

[NeoSeraphi]

The two of them head over to the lighthouse.

As they approach, Holly notices something...very very wrong.

There's no light. There's no light at the top of the light house.

[Diachronos]

Holly stares up at the tower's highest level. "...Jasmine? Did you take Amphy somewhere else?"

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine shakes her head. "No, not at all!"

The two of them enter the light house with worry and stop when they see a pair of black uniforms with red Rs across the chest, guarding the staircase.

"What is the meaning of this?!"

"This light house is now under the command of Team Rocket!" one of the grunts declares.

"Better just turn around and leave. Our boss is super strong, and he won't take kindly to anyone interfering with Team Rocket's business. Even if you are a Gym Leader."

[Diachronos]

"And we don't take kindly to people messing with our hometown. Clear out, before we throw every last one of you off the lighthouse roof."

[NeoSeraphi]

The Rocket thugs chuckle. "Oh really? You and what army, kid?"

[Diachronos]

Holly sends out Darius and her Cubone, Lily.

[NeoSeraphi]

Team Rocket Grunt and Team Rocket Grunt would like to battle!

Team Rocket Grunt sent out Weepinbell!

Team Rocket Grunt sent out Poliwhirl!

[Diachronos]

Seeing that Lily is a poor matchup here, Holly recalls her and sends in Regina. "Darius, hit Weepinbell with Ember!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Weepinbell faints!

800 XP

"Poliwhirl, use Hypnosis on Slowpoke!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

The attack fails to work on Regina. "Darius, Bite! Regina, Confusion!"
Darius: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Regina: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[NeoSeraphi]

Poliwhirl flinches!

[Diachronos]

"Again! Finish off his Poliwhirl!"
Darius: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Regina: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[NeoSeraphi]

The Confusion misses.

"Poliwhirl, use Bubble on Growlithe!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Darius is hurt, but still standing. "Once more! Let's finish this!"
Darius: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Regina: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[NeoSeraphi]

Poliwhirl faints!

800 XP

Team Rocket Grunt and Team Rocket Grunt were defeated!

"What? Just wait til we tell the Boss on you!"

"Argh! I can't believe I lost to a kid!"

Holly got 2200 yen for winning!

The two men glance at each other and take off upstairs, calling for their comrades to come help.

[Diachronos]

Holly grits her teeth as she gets out a Potion to use on Darius. "They'll know we're coming after this... Jasmine, call the police and let them know what's going on. I'll head upstairs and keep Team Rocket busy."
[roll0]

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine nods and runs outside.

Holly heads upstairs and finds a Rocket Thug guarding the door. "What are you doing here, pest? Team Rocket is going to keep the light house closed so that the ships that approach Olivine Harbor can't dock properly! Then we send out a boat pretending to be a rescue ship and bam! Steal all the cargo for ourselves! It's the perfect plan to get lots of cash really quickly! I won't let you screw it up!"

[Diachronos]

"And I'm not going to let you succeed. Get out of my way."

[NeoSeraphi]

Team Rocket Thug wants to battle! Team Rocket Thug sent out Nidoqueen!

[Diachronos]

That's not good... Holly sends out Vincent. "Water Gun!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

It's super effective!

"Nidoqueen, use Thunderbolt!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Vincent is easily KO'd by the attack. Holly hesitates a moment, but sends in Lily. "Bone Club!"
Hit: [roll0], Nidoqueen flinches on 18+
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

The attack is super effective!

"Nidoqueen, use Double Kick!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[roll2]
[roll3]

[Diachronos]

Lily probably can't take another hit like that... "Lily, come back! Regina, you're up!"

[NeoSeraphi]

"Nidoqueen, use Bite!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Regina faints. Holly sends Darius out. "Ember!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Nidoqueen faints!

2000 XP

Team Rocket Grunt was defeated!

"Argh...but I was going to...impress Lady Musashi..."

Holly got 2139 yen for winning!

[Diachronos]

Holly uses a Revive on Regina and Vincent, then heals up her Pokemon. "Did you say 'Musashi'? Is she here?"
Lily: [roll0]
Regina: [roll1]
Vincent: [roll2]

[NeoSeraphi]

The Rocket Grunt shakes her head. "No, Musashi is on the boat. She's the one who's going to grab the cash. Lord Koshiro is the one who took control of the Lighthouse."

[Diachronos]

"What?! How did they escape prison?!"

[NeoSeraphi]

"Wouldn't you like to know?"

[Diachronos]

Holly growls and pushes past the man.

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly moves on towards the the stairs to the third floor, but a woman blocks her path. "You're not going anywhere near Lord Koshiro! Turn around now!"

[Diachronos]

"Get out of my way. You're not going to stop me!"

[NeoSeraphi]

"Want to bet?"

Team Rocket Grunt wants to battle! Team Rocket Grunt sent out Voltorb!

"Voltorb, the Ball Pokemon. Voltorb was first sighted at a company that manufactures Poké Balls. The link between that sighting and the fact that this Pokémon looks very similar to a Poké Ball remains a mystery."

[Diachronos]

Holly sends in Lily. "Bone Club!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Lily misses.

"Voltorb, use Sonicboom!"

DC 6 Special, 15 damage [roll0]

[Diachronos]

Lily avoids the attack. "Headbutt!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

The attack hurts him quite a bit, but Voltorb is still standing.

"Use Swift!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

"Bone Club again! Let's finish it off!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Voltorb faints.

600 XP

Team Rocket Thug sent out Tangela!

"Tangela, the Vine Pokemon. Tangela's vines snap off easily if they are grabbed. This happens without pain, allowing it to make a quick getaway. The lost vines are replaced by newly grown vines the very next day."

[Diachronos]

Holly recalls Lily and sends out Darius.

[NeoSeraphi]

"Tangela use Sleep Powder!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

Darius avoids the burst of pollen. "Let's hit it with an Ember!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

The attack devastates Tangela, but it's still up.

"Tangela, use Growth!"

[Diachronos]

"Finish it with another Ember!"

Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Tangela faints!

1200 XP

Holly defeated Team Rocket Grunt!

"Nooo...Lord Koshiro is going to be so disappointed in me!"

Holly got 2400 yen for winning!

[Diachronos]

Holly uses a Potion on Lily, then keeps moving to the next level.
[roll0]

[NeoSeraphi]

On the top floor, Holly can see Koshiro standing over the unconscious body of Amphy, Jasmine's Ampharos and the Pokemon who lights the Light House. It looks like Amphy wasn't able to beat Koshiro without her Trainer by her side.

"Tch...to think this is what it has come to. People rely on Pokemon for so many things, and yet they still cling to their ideals of treating Pokemon as friends or equals. Hah. This Pokemon barely ever gets to see its Trainer while it works all day to serve human interests. You're as much a tool as any of my Pokemon, little battery."

[Diachronos]

"Get away from her!"

[NeoSeraphi]

Koshiro turns to look at Holly. "You, again? Do you always have to stick your nose where you don't belong? Go take a nap, kid."

[Diachronos]

"Yeah, I guess I do. You made the wrong choice coming here, Koshiro."

[NeoSeraphi]

Koshiro sighs. "I guess you and I are really going to cross swords, here, huh? Well, sorry. But I need this lighthouse to stay out of commission. So if you're dead set on stopping me from controlling it, then I'm going to have to go all out."

He pulls a strange purple PokeBall from his belt. "Welcome to Hell."

https://pre00.deviantart.net/f8ed/th/pre/f/2015/270/8/8/mewtwo_by_3nrique-d9b3y25.jpg

[Diachronos]

Holly stares at the Pokemon; she's never seen or heard of anything like it. "It'll take more than that to stop me. Vincent, use Hypnosis!"
Hit: [roll0]

[NeoSeraphi]

"Mewtwo, the Genetic Pokemon. A Pokémon created by recombining Mew's genes. It's said to have the most savage heart among Pokémon."

The Hypnosis attack fails.

"Mewtwo, use Confusion!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Vincent faints. Holly sends in Darius. "Bite!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

The attack misses.

"Confusion!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Darius faints. "Regina, hit it with Yawn!"

[NeoSeraphi]

"Mewtwo, use Future Sight!"

Mewtwo foresaw an attack! Mewtwo fell asleep.

[Diachronos]

"Tackle!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Mewtwo is asleep.

"Mewtwo, wake up and use Confusion!"

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[Diachronos]

"Tackle it again!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Mewtwo is fast asleep.

This Tackle, like the last, misses its mark. Mewtwo's psychic barrier deflects it even as it rests.

"Mewtwo, use Confusion!"

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[Diachronos]

Regina takes the hit and remains on her feet, but the Future Sight attack finishes her off. Holly curses and sends in Lily. "Headbutt!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Lily hits.

"Mewtwo, use Confusion!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Lily is KO'd. All Holly has left are Sarkon and Mica...

[NeoSeraphi]

Koshiro recalls Mewtwo. "Do you understand, brat? You can't always win. You won't. Now get out of here!"

Holly has to surrender 10% of her earnings.

[Diachronos]

Holly pays out 1,538
Holly recalls her fainted Pokemon. "What are you going to do to Amphy?"

[NeoSeraphi]

Koshiro turns to her. "I'm going to make sure the Light House stays dark. That means keeping this Ampharos unconscious."

[Diachronos]

"...If you let me take her to the Pokemon Center, I'll make sure she doesn't come back up here." She hates to let him get away with this, but it's clear that Holly doesn't stand a chance against him as long as he has Mewtwo. If nothing else, she can try convincing him to let Amphy be taken away from the lighthouse so she won't suffer any more injuries.

[NeoSeraphi]

Koshiro scoffs. "Nice try. Beat it, kid."

[Diachronos]

Holly scowls. "Come on, there's no places near Olivine that would work for guiding ships into the harbor other than this lighthouse, and I doubt even Jasmine could stand up to you right now. If Amphy isn't here, that's just one less thing you have to keep your attention on."

[NeoSeraphi]

Koshiro shakes his head. "All you would have to do is have Ampharos stand on the beach and it could still light the way. This Pokemon is nothing more than a nuisance to me right now."

[Diachronos]

There doesn't seem to be any way to convince him... Defeated, Holly heads back down the tower.

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine approaches Holly at the Pokemon Center. "What happened? Did you get Amphy back?"

[Diachronos]

"I..." Holly sinks into a chair and covers her face. "I tried, I really did. But the leader at the top has some crazy-strong Pokemon called a Mewtwo and... I didn't stand a chance. I tried talking him into letting me bring Amphy down to heal her as long as she was kept from lighting the way to the harbor, but he wasn't willing to let her go."

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine sniffs and a tear rolls down her cheek. "Amphy..."

She starts to cry.

Holly feels awful. But that Pokemon...could Professor Elm know anything about it?

[Diachronos]

"We'll find a way to rescue her, Jasmine. I promise." She calls Professor Elm to ask about Mewtwo.

[NeoSeraphi]

The Professor answers. "Mew...two?"

Holly can hear some tapping at the keys.

"This Pokemon possesses overwhelming power, but Koshiro likely doesn't treat it very well. You will need to abandon this for now, Holly. Focus on training and getting stronger, together with your Pokemon. If you do that, you can probably take the Light House back. For now, aim for the top of the Pokemon League!"

[Diachronos]

"Abandon this? But what about Amphy? What are we going to do about her and all of the people being attacked and robbed while Team Rocket's in control of the lighthouse?"

[NeoSeraphi]

"What can you do, Holly? You tried. You failed. Do you really think it will go any differently if you try again?" Elm asks.

[Diachronos]

"...No, it won't be any different. Thanks, Professor..." She hangs up.

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine looks sad. She looks up at Holly. "So...I have to be patient, right? Okay. I know you'll save my Pokemon, Holly."

[Diachronos]

"...I hope I can live up to that promise." She goes to retrieve her Pokemon from Nurse Joy.

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly's Pokemon come back fully healed. Darius barks sorrowfully and paws at her leg, looking sad.

[Diachronos]

"Hey, it's okay, buddy. You all tried your best. I'm the one who was sending you up against something we had no chance of beating." She pets him.

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine stands up. "Right. In that case, why don't you take one of my Pokemon with you? I'll trust you to take good care of it. That way...I'll still be helping Amphy, even from here."

[Diachronos]

Holly blinks. "Are... are you sure?"

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine nods with a smile. "You still need to defeat all those bird Pokemon to continue on, right? Go on, take it."

Jasmine holds out a PokeBall.

Holly got Matrix!

Matrix is a level 30 Magneton. Genderless High Special Attack low Special Defense

[Diachronos]

"Jasmine..." She hugs her friend. "Thank you. For having faith in me."

[NeoSeraphi]

Jasmine nods and hugs her back. "For now, why don't you head back to Violet City?"

[Diachronos]

Holly nods. "That sounds like a good idea. I'll deal with that flock on the way."

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly goes to find Ethan. When he hears about Koshiro, he sighs. "In that case, this is where we part ways, Holly. I was enjoying traveling with you, but Koshiro needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. I need to focus on my journey and get to the Elite Four as quickly as I can."

[Diachronos]

Holly nods. "I understand... if you run into him again, please be careful. His Mewtwo is in a league of its own, and I don't want to see you get hurt."

[NeoSeraphi]

Ethan nods. "Same to you. And make sure you keep your PokeGear handy. If you need me, just call." He gives her a hug and then he and Jasmine walk to the Olivine City Gym.

[Diachronos]

As they leave, Holly turns to head back to her home so she can say farewell to her dad.

[NeoSeraphi]

Patrick is resting in his favorite chair when Holly enters. He smiles at her. "Hello, honey. How are you feeling today?"

[Diachronos]

"I'm... doing okay. I was going to head back to Violet City, so I came to say goodbye."

[NeoSeraphi]

Patrick looks worried. "Honey, I already told you you're a terrible liar. What happened?"

[Diachronos]

"I couldn't save Amphy. Now she's stuck up there with the Team Rocket leader, with nobody to take care of her injuries, and while the lighthouse is under their control they're going to go out and rob all the ships coming in."

[NeoSeraphi]

Patrick blinks. "Did you call the police?"

[Diachronos]

"Jasmine did that while I was facing Team Rocket."

[NeoSeraphi]

Patrick sighs. "I'm worried about you...Please, take Sickle with you when you go. I won't be going back to work until I heal up, and I want him to look after you in my place."

The Sneasel walks forward and smiles.

That reminds Holly...she was thinking about asking Minerva if the Gastly would join her too.

[Diachronos]

"Are you sure, Dad?"

[NeoSeraphi]

Patrick nods. "Honey, I would go with you myself, if I could. I didn't realize you would be getting involved in things that were so dangerous when I let you go. But now that you are, I want to make sure you're safe."

Holly recalls Professor Elm's words. A Dark Type would be immune to Mewtwo's Psychic attacks, no matter how weak it was. If she helps Sickle become stronger, she may have her trump card against Koshiro's awesome power.

Sickle - Level 40 Sneasel. High Attack, low Special Attack. Male. You must put at least 5 of your level up points into Speed. Moveset - Beat Up, Slash, Screech, Metal Claw (Natural) and Ice Punch, Fury Cutter, Dark Pulse and Mud-Slap (Learned)

[Diachronos]

Holly nods, and hugs her father. "Thanks. I promise I'll come home safe."

[NeoSeraphi]

Sickle hops up to join in the hug. Patrick pats his head fondly and the two of them share a look. No words are exchanged, but Sickle nods with conviction. They have a very strong bond.

[Diachronos]

"And I'll make sure Sickle comes home safe too." She strokes the Sneasel's head.

Before she leaves, Holly heads upstairs to see if she can find Minerva.

[NeoSeraphi]

The Gastly is sitting in the closet. She looks down at Holly as the girl approaches.

[Diachronos]

Holly smiles and holds out her hand. "Hi, Minerva. How are you doing today?"

[NeoSeraphi]

The Pokemon looks at Holly suspiciously, before floating forward a bit and touching her hand with her head. "Gass..."

[Diachronos]

Holly lightly strokes the Pokemon's head. "It's okay. I'm not here to cause you any trouble."

[NeoSeraphi]

Minerva nods slowly and then looks at her sadly. "Gastly."

[Diachronos]

"What's wrong?"

[NeoSeraphi]

Minerva's eyes glow and Holly can see an image of a much younger Emilia in her mind.

[Diachronos]

"You miss her, don't you?" Holly frowns; she might not have the same feelings toward her mother, but Minerva is Emilia's Pokemon. "Do you want to come with me? I can take you to see her."

[NeoSeraphi]

Minerva's eyes widen. "Gastly!" she replies excitedly.

[Diachronos]

Holly holds out a Pokeball. "Let's get going, then."

[NeoSeraphi]

Minerva joins her!

Gastly Level 20 Female High Speed Low Special Defense.
As Ghost Pokemon are immune to physical attacks they do not have a Defense score (When Foresight and other effects expose a Ghost Pokemon to physical attacks, the Ghost Pokemon treats its Special Defense as its Defense). As such, whenever you catch a Ghost Pokemon, you can take its base Defense score and distribute that as points to any of its other scores.

[Diachronos]

Holly heads to the Pokemon Center to adjust her team, going with Mica, Matrix, Minerva, Sickle, Regina, and Sarkon.

[NeoSeraphi]

As Holly starts to leave town, she thinks about the situation.

Mewtwo is dangerous, but...Koshiro is only half the operation. She may still be able to take down Musashi and stop them from attacking the ships, at least for a while. Or she could just give up and leave.

[Diachronos]

Taking out Musashi could help... but who knows what tricks she has at her disposal? Even then, Holly has no idea where to look for the Team Rocket members that are targeting the boats, or how many of them there are. It sucks, but it's probably best to leave for now and come back once she has a better understanding of her own abilities. She heads out, intending to go through Ecruteak on the way to Goldenrod City.

[NeoSeraphi]

When Holly arrives in Ecruteak Town, she sees a young man with bushy brown hair working at the PC in the Pokemon Center. He smiles at her as she enters. "Oh, hello. Are you carrying a PokeDex?"

[Diachronos]

"Yes, I am." She shows it to him.

[NeoSeraphi]

The boy smiles. "Wonderful. My name is Bill. I'm the one who manages the PC system that Professor Oak uses to store and transfer extra Pokemon. It's always good to meet another customer. Tell me, what is your favorite Pokemon?"

[Diachronos]

"Um... I'm not sure. Probably Onix or Miltank. What's yours?"

[NeoSeraphi]

"Kabuto," Bill replies, showing her a picture in the PokeDex. Ami has one of these, she recalls.

"I'd like to give you a present, as thanks for using my PC. Here you go." Bill taps a few keys into Holly's PokeGear.

Holly got a Tracker Card!

"With this, you can search for specific Pokemon in the wild, even if you haven't recorded them in your PokeDex yet. Type a name of a Pokemon, or even just a Type that you're interested in, and the PokeGear will show you on the map where you can find specific Pokemon. Then you can travel there and catch them!"

[Diachronos]

"Oh, thank you! I'm sure this will come in handy." She smiles and shakes his hand.

[NeoSeraphi]

Bill smiles and walks away. Holly is left alone with her thoughts.

She has some time before bed. She could explore the town, listen to the radio, go catch some Pokemon, or make a call on her PokeGear.

[Diachronos]

Holly decides to take a look around town.

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly finds a strange theater. Inside, she sees several beautiful women in kimonos dancing with their Pokemon. Their Pokemon all appear similar, but they all have different types.

[Diachronos]

Holly stops to watch the women dance.

[NeoSeraphi]

The women smile as Holly watches them. One of them approaches her. "Have you come to train as a geisha? In order to make a true bond with your Pokemon, you yourself must be fit to earn their respect. That is the policy of this theater. Train oneself, and become a Trainer worthy of your Pokemon."

[Diachronos]

"Huh? Oh... no, I was just exploring the town and thought your dance was fun to watch."

[NeoSeraphi]

The woman smiles. "Do not be modest. Hah! Let me see the grace by which you command your Pokemon!"

Kimono Sister Henako wants to battle. Kimono Sister Henako sent out Flareon!

[Diachronos]

Holly sends out Regina. "Water Gun!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] 19, rolled in Discord

[NeoSeraphi]

It's super effective...but the attack still doesn't do much. What happened?

Henako chuckles. "Type advantages are important, my dear, but so is understanding your opponent. Attacking my Flareon with a water attack won't do you any good unless it's physical!"

So this Pokemon has high Special Defense? Like how Mica can take physical attacks even if they're super effective...

"Flareon, use Quick Attack!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Regina takes the hit, but remains on her feet. "Alright, let's try Tackle!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Flareon looks a bit weaker.

"Flareon, use Ember!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Holly uses a Potion.
[roll0]

[NeoSeraphi]

"Flareon, Quick Attack again!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Regina manages to avoid the attack. "Water Gun!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Flareon faints!

1200 XP

Holly defeated Kimono Dancer Henako!

"Oh my! You battled with grace beyond compare!"

Holly got 2500 yen for winning!

[Diachronos]

"Good work, Regina." She recalls her Slowpoke and heads to the Pokemon Center to get her wounds treated.

[NeoSeraphi]

Slowpoke is healed up and happy.

[Diachronos]

Holly returns to the theater, intending to face the other dancers now. This should be good training for her team.

[NeoSeraphi]

One of the other dancers pauses and smiles as she approaches.

"Do you enjoy the sight of a body moving to the music? I shall defeat you while you are distracted!"

Kimono Sister Raiko wants to battle! Kimono Sister Raiko sent out Jolteon!

[Diachronos]

Holly sends out Matrix. "Tri Attack!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Matrix's attack misses.

"Jolteon, use Sand Attack!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

"Mirror Shot!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

The attack misses.

"Jolteon, use Thundershock!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

The attack barely scratches him. This isn't working... "Matrix, come back! Go, Mica!"

[NeoSeraphi]

The Onix towers in the theater, nearly touching the ceiling.

"A Ground type...no matter! Jolteon, Quick Attack!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

The attack barely scratches Mica. "Tackle!"
[roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

"Jolteon, use Double Kick!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[roll2]
[roll3]

[Diachronos]

The attack is super-effective, but barely scratches Mica. "Rock Throw!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Jolteon is harmed, but still standing.

"Another Sand Attack!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

Mica writhes from the sand in his eyes. "It's okay, we've got this. Tackle!"
[roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Jolteon staggers, but it is on its last legs.

"Finish it off with Double Kick!"

"Joool!"

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

[Diachronos]

"Finish it with another Rock Throw!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Jolteon is unable to battle!

1360 XP

Holly defeated Kimono Girl Raiko!

"Ah! You...you weren't distracted by my dance at all!"

Holly got 2800 yen for winning!

[Diachronos]

Holly pats Mica's side and recalls him, before moving on to the next dancer.

[NeoSeraphi]

The woman sways and bobs as Holly approaches. "So, you wish to learn our dance? Watch closely, dear!"

Kimono Sister Umiko wants to battle! Kimono Sister Umiko sent out Vaporeon!

[Diachronos]

Holly sends out Sarkon. "Shock Wave!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Vaporeon looks pretty hurt!

"Vaporeon, use Water Gun!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Sarkon is barely standing after the hit. Holly recalls him and sends in Minerva.

[NeoSeraphi]

"Vaporeon, Water Pulse!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Minerva, use Night Shade!"
Hit: [roll0]
20 Damage if it hits

[NeoSeraphi]

Vaporeon faints!

1360 XP

Holly defeated Kimono Sister Umiko!

"Oh, my, it seems that I was the one with something to learn!"

Holly got 2640 yen for winning!

[Diachronos]

Holly uses a Potion on Minerva and Sarkon, then heads to the next Trainer.
Sarkon has less than 10 HP missing, so no roll for him
Minerva: [roll0]

[NeoSeraphi]

The woman stops dancing and smiles. "I foresaw you would challenge me. And I also foresaw the outcome. But the battle itself...that is the true dance!"

Kimono Sister Saiko would like to battle! Kimono Sister Saiko sent out Espeon!

[Diachronos]

Holly sends out Sickle. "Dark Pulse!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Espeon can't tank the hit! She faints!

1360 XP

Kimono Sister Saiko was defeated!

"Oh, my! I never predicted this!"

Holly got 2475 yen for winning!

[Diachronos]

Holly grins and pats Sickle's head. That just leaves one more Trainer to challenge!

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly approaches the last dancer. She smirks. "Very well. I will challenge you and see if you really have what it takes to beat Morty."

Kimono Sister Yamiko wants to battle! Kimono Sister Yamiko sent out Umbreon!

[Diachronos]

Holly sends out Mica. "Let's open up with Iron Tail!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly's attack bounces off of Umbreon's hardened fur.

"Sand Attack!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

"Mica, use Rock Throw!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Umbreon winces and responds with a Faint Attack!

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

Mica tanks the hit with little trouble. "Tackle!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Umbreon dodges again and counters with Quick Attack!

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Even with a solid hit, the Umbreon barely scratches Mica. "Rock Throw!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Umbreon evades the attack again. It Faints once more!

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

"Tackle!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

"This is the power of the dance. You cannot scratch my Pokemon with such angular assaults "

Umbreon uses Tail Whip!

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

"Come on, Mica! Let's finish this with another Rock Throw!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Mica defeats Umbreon!

1360 XP

Holly defeated Kimono Sister Yamiko!

"The way you breezed through our performance shows your mastery of the dance...take this HM for Surf."

Holly got 3000 yen for winning!

[Diachronos]

Holly smiles. "Thank you. For the HM, and for helping my training."

[NeoSeraphi]

The Kimono Girls gather around and bow, offering their praise.

At that point...Holly feels a bump.

Oh no.

From her arms, the small egg with lightning bolts around it starts to shake.

[Diachronos]

Holly stares down at the egg, holding it carefully as she starts moving toward the Pokemon Center.

[NeoSeraphi]

The egg slowly starts to hatch.

By the time Holly gets to the Pokemon Center, she's holding a Pokemon!

"Pinnn!"

The Pokemon is a Pinsir, but it looks strange. As Professor Elm stated, it seems the damage to the egg has affected the Pokemon inside. The Pinsir's horns are sparking with electricity and it has streaks of blue across its shell.

Pinsir! Level 1, with a Docile Nature. He's male, and he has -2 Defense and +2 Speed, as well as being Bug/Electric in his Type. Add Static and Volt Absorb to the options for his Abilities. At level 1, he knows Thundershock, and he learns Thunderpunch at level 20 and Volt Tackle at level 40

[Diachronos]

Holly stares curiously at the newly hatched Pinsir. What's been done to the egg to produce such an unusual member of its kind?

She sits down to make a call to Professor Elm; he'll want to hear about this right away.

[NeoSeraphi]

Nurse Joy marches out from behind her desk. "Excuse me, young lady, are you about to make a phone call with a newly hatched Pokemon in your lap? This is a baby, you need to give him lots of love and attention right now! He's probably hungry too! We have Pokemon formula available for purchase and you can have a cot to lie down and hold him with while he adjusts to being out of the shell."

All of this is second nature to Holly as a breeder, of course.

[Diachronos]

"R-right... sorry." She buys some food for the little one and lies down to help him get settled.

[NeoSeraphi]

After about ten minutes, the Pinsir is happily fast asleep in Holly's arms. He seems to take well to her, but Holly is experienced with handling little Pokemon.

She makes the call to Professor Elm, quietly.

The professor is shocked. "A Pokemon that isn't an Electric Type was born as an Electric Type? This is...phenomenal! What could this mean? W-well, I don't want to separate a young Pokemon from its mother, so why don't you keep that Pinsir as your own? I'll study it when you have time to come by New Bark Town."

[Diachronos]

Holly nods. "I'll try to stop by the next time I'm in the area. Maybe after I visit the Violet City Gym again."

[NeoSeraphi]

"Sounds good, Holly. Take care while you're out there. You should visit Mr. Pokemon too, I'm sure he would love to see what hatched from that Egg."

Elm hangs up.

[Diachronos]

Holly puts her Pokegear away and lays back, watching the young Pinsir sleep. Perhaps she should ask Mr. Pokemon where he'd gotten the egg when she sees him...

[NeoSeraphi]

The next morning, Holly and Pinsir wake up refreshed and ready to travel together.

Pinsir doesn't seem particularly eager to go in a PokeBall just yet.

[Diachronos]

Holly leaves the Pinsir out of his ball for now, and carries him along as she heads south toward Goldenrod City. After some thought, she decides to take another shot at the flock of birds.

[NeoSeraphi]

The Pokemon seem annoyed as she approaches.

Whoa! A whole horde of Pokemon appear!

Skarmory, Pidgey, Spearow, Hoothoot and Murkrow all appear!

[Diachronos]

Holly sends in Matrix and Sarkon. "Matrix, hit Murkrow with a Thundershock! Sarkon, use Shock Wave on Hoothoot!"
Charisma: [roll0]
Matrix: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Sarkon: [roll3]

[NeoSeraphi]

Murkrow faints!

Sarkon turned away!

Skarmory used Air Cutter on Matrix!
Pidgey used Sand Attack on Matrix!
Spearow used Peck on Sarkon!
Hoothoot used Hypnosis on Matrix!

Air Cutter
[roll0]
[roll1]

Sand Attack: [roll2]

Peck: [roll3]
[roll4]

Hypnosis: [roll5]

[Diachronos]

Sarkon faints. Holly sends in Regina. "Regina, use Surf! Matrix, use Thunder Wave on Skarmory!"
Charisma: [roll0]

Regina: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Sleep: [roll3]
Hit: [roll4]

[NeoSeraphi]

Regina manages to knock out Spearow, Pidgey, and Hoothoot all in one go!

Matrix turns away!

Skarmory hesitates. It might try to escape on its next turn!

[Diachronos]

"Regina, Yawn!" Holly throws a Great Ball!
Capture roll: [roll0]

[NeoSeraphi]

The Ball moves once. It moves twice! It moves three times!

Click!

Holly caught...a Skarmory!

5000 XP for the encounter, Sarkon gets 900 for half of Murkrow.

Skarmory - Female, Level 25, Knows Steel Wing, High Defense Low Attack

[Diachronos]

Holly lets the Skarmory go to the PC, then heads on to Goldenrod. Since she's in the area, she might as well see what's available at the store.

[NeoSeraphi]

Inside the store, Holly finds a sale on medicines! Protein, Zinc, and Carbos are half price today!

[Diachronos]

After some thought, Holly buys 3 Zincs, and takes the time to stock up on other healing items.
Spending 7350 on Vitamins, 4500 on 3 Revives, and 3500 on 5 Super Potions

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly finishes up shopping. Where will she go now?

[Diachronos]

With her shopping done, Holly sets out and heads for Violet City. Along the way, she turns on the radio of her Pokegear.

[NeoSeraphi]

"Three ships have been attacked by Team Rocket already in the Olivine Harbor. At this point, ships are being rerouted to Blackthorn City instead to try and ease some of the tension. However, it is likely that this rerouting will have serious implications for the distribution of food and medical supplies throughout the region."

[Diachronos]

Holly sighs and turns off the radio. More reminders of her failure... Maybe dealing with the Team Rocket members attacking the boats is a good idea after all? It's at least something to look into after she's taken care of business in Violet City...

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly reaches the Daycare Center outside of town.

[Diachronos]

At the Daycare Center, Holly walks in. Maybe they can help Sarkon grow a little bit stronger while she's away, so he isn't getting knocked out every fight.

[NeoSeraphi]

The Daycare couple take Sarkon and promise to treat him well. Holly can use the PC to withdraw another Pokemon and then she bikes to Violet City.

When she arrives, she finds her cousin standing in the street. He is quiet, and he looks like he is still recovering from the injury he sustained at Sprout Tower. His injury makes Holly realize she didn't check on Ami in the hospital while she was in Ecruteak Town.

[Diachronos]

Holly walks up to her cousin and smiles. "I'm glad to see you're back on your feet."

[NeoSeraphi]

Kirito looks over at Holly. "Holly...I heard about what happened in Olivine City. Is your father okay? Was anyone hurt?"

[Diachronos]

Holly bows her head. "My dad's okay, aside from his... his age catching up with him." She doesn't know who knows about Patrick's arthritis, so it's probably best to keep quiet about it. "But Amphy, the Ampharos at the top of the lighthouse, is being held prisoner by Team Rocket. And their leader has this crazy-strong Pokemon called a Mewtwo that just destroyed my Pokemon when I tried to drive him out."

[NeoSeraphi]

Kirito frowns and crosses his arms for a moment. "Perhaps Father would know how to deal with such an obstacle? You might seek guidance at Sprout Tower once more while you are in town."

[Diachronos]

"Maybe... I'll go see him after I challenge the Gym, then."

[NeoSeraphi]

Kirito nods. "Please be careful. And come visit me if you ever want your Pokemon to learn the ways of the sword."

Kirito functions as a Move Tutor. He can teach any Pokemon one of the following moves (only does it once per day, but is willing to train all of her Pokemon at once if she speaks to him in a PM):
Slash
Night Slash
Focus Energy
Stone Edge
Air Cutter
Crabhammer
Razor Leaf
Cross Poison
Secret: For Suicune, Entei and Raikou only

[Diachronos]

"I will. Thanks, Kirito." She hugs him, then heads to the Pokemon Center to swap Regina for her Skarmory, Blade.

[NeoSeraphi]

Holly takes Blade to Violet Gym, where she finds the two Gym Trainers waiting for her in a Sky Arena well above the floor.

[Diachronos]

Holly climbs up to the arena. She'll have to rely on just Blade and Minerva for this...

[NeoSeraphi]

"This is the Sky Arena! Up here, we can only fight with our wings and our Pokemon! You'll need to face me head on in the air if you want to win!"

Bird Keeper Victor wants to battle! Bird Keeper Victor sent out Pidgeotto!

"Pidgeotto, the Bird Pokemon. Pidgeotto claims a large area as its own territory. This Pokémon flies around, patrolling its living space. If its territory is violated, it shows no mercy in thoroughly punishing the foe with its sharp claws."

[Diachronos]

Holly sends out Blade. "Let's open up with Metal Claw!"
Hit: [roll0], Blade's Attack is increased 1 stage on 18+
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Pidgeotto staggers.

"Pidgeotto, use Gust!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

The attack barely scratches the Skarmory. "Metal Claw again!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Pidgeotto dodges out of the way.

"Pidgeotto, Sand Attack!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

Blade doesnt' seem affected by the attack. "You can do it! Try again!"

Blade's Keen Eye prevents Sand Attack from working

Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Pidgeotto evades the attack.

"Another Gust!"

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Diachronos]

Blade expertly dodges the winds. "Peck!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Pidgeotto looks like it's on its last legs!

"Pidgeotto, use Aerial Ace!"

[roll0]

[Diachronos]

The attack nicks Blade, but doesn't harm her very much. "Finish it with another Peck!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[NeoSeraphi]

Pidgeotto faints!

1500 XP

Bird Keeper Victor sends out Murkrow!

[Diachronos]

"Steel Wing!"
Hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]