[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Imported... Hmm. Probably from Kalos? Gotta look out for one during traveling, maybe. A rare Fairy Type that appearantly eats nothing but sweets, that sounds like an interesting companion for her~

"Ah... Well, thanks. I'll be traveling the region anyway, so I guess I'll look out for one. Another fluffy Fairy..." At these last words, she gently petted her Cottonee, who was still happily diging into the free sample of the sugary fluff. At this point, she also realised at by now, a crowd has gathered up at the stall - one that wasn't there before. Customers?

"Oh... Eh, I'll leave then, they're waiting for me at the Pokemon Center. Thanks again for the treat to my Pokemon!"

[Dragonstrike]

Nathan's stare at Ventus is ice cold.

"Hmph.  Fine then, I'll back off for now.  One more question concerning the 'scimitars' though before we move on to a more...mundane, topic."  Nathan digs around in his jacket pocket for a moment, then sets the metal finger on the table.  "Are they typically made out of metal?  The one we faced had unnatural strength, stamina, and speed.  He didn't even flinch when struck with physical force.  A frying pan produced a loud clang when it made contact with his head.  And..."  Nathan also lets Swiftfire out of her pokeball at this point.  She takes a few seconds to figure out where she is.  She sees Nathan, Ventus...and a stranger with a Pawniard?  She's immediately on guard, staring the little blade pokemon down.

"...he didn't seem to particularly like fire.  Like the metal glove he was wearing was more than just a glove.  Much like this finger I found in the bushes on Route 01.  It wasn't his, but it looks extremely similar to the fingers on that man's metal hand.

"And with regards to information on their pokemon and abilities, I have a feeling we'll need it.  You can brief everyone later.  I doubt that was the last time we're going to see one of those men."

 Theo was looking grimly at the ponyta (it was ponyta right?), not wanting to bow down, but not wanting to show any sign of weakness.
"It's fine. Theo. Don't mind it. it won't attack you. At least not if that trainer knows what he's doing at least". Valder gave the boy a little smirk as he turned back to him.

 Trying to sound more reasonable, Valder took a deep breath before talking. "That thing... it looks like one of their gauntlets.
 Scimitars usually have some kind of gauntlet, and an amulet, wand, staff or a pokeball belt. It strengthens them by quite a bit as you've seen yourself".
"So don't fight one if you don't massive numbers or a good plan".

By this point Valder was itching to walk around by himself as he usually did. He had never been comfortable with things like interviews or small talk.

"I assure you I know how to handle a ponyta.  She and Ralts here were actually the ones who helped me drive away that 'scimitar' we encountered.  I got the impression he wasn't exactly a happy camper when he came under fire from them.

"Anyways, it looks like a little more than a gauntlet to me, to be honest.  Looks completely mechanical.  Moving on, though...last questions.  Yes, I can tell you're uncomfortable for any number of reasons.  And yes, I'd rather be elsewhere to.  So let's wrap this up quickly.  Simply put, what pokemon do you have access to besides that Pawniard, and what brings you to this area besides 'just looking for work?'  Simple enough questions, right?"

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Without running into any hassle or further distractions, Shiva arrived back in the Pokemon Center. As far as she could tell, Nathan and Ventus were nowhere to be seen, Larry was absent too. They're probably still dealing with the mercenary - if otherwise, they'd have messaged her. Looks like she wasn't late at all. However, she was wondering what takes them so long... Hopefully they didn't stumbled in any trouble or danger.

A short check-in on Nurse Joy told her that the Pokemon she gave in care are in good hands, and can probably be picked up at full health tomorrow. 

Waiting in the Lounge area for the others to finish business is it then. From what she picked up from the phamplet, there will be an event with the local Sawsbuck tomorrow. She...would love to see this! Hopefully work at the Daycare won't occupy her too long to make it to the event in time. Also Berry Vendors... Maybe one of those will have one or two Ranc Berries as well? Shuckleball... Could be something Plusle and Minun would enjoy.

Looks like tomorrow will be a busy, but likely exciting and pleasant day!

[Nylon]

"I assure you I know how to handle a ponyta.  She and Ralts here were actually the ones who helped me drive away that 'scimitar' we encountered.  I got the impression he wasn't exactly a happy camper when he came under fire from them.

"Anyways, it looks like a little more than a gauntlet to me, to be honest.  Looks completely mechanical.  Moving on, though...last questions.  Yes, I can tell you're uncomfortable for any number of reasons.  And yes, I'd rather be elsewhere to.  So let's wrap this up quickly.  Simply put, what pokemon do you have access to besides that Pawniard, and what brings you to this area besides 'just looking for work?'  Simple enough questions, right?"

 Valder thought for a second before answering. "I have one other pokemon as well" Vader said as he reached for his other pokeball.
 Valder inserted a little dramatic pause as he slowly sent out his other pokemon, "Come forth, Ghastly!" and indeed, out of the ball came a ghastly.
 "Here's Ghastly. it's my second and last pokemon". Treat it and Theo well, they'll acknowledge you after some time if my gut isn't failing me.

 Valder, guessing that they were pretty much finished decided to get a bit more comfortable. "Hey, any of you feel like getting something to eat. Oh! or maybe you want to go back to that girl from before. How many are there of you? Wasn't there also some kid?"
 Valder also wanted a proper introduction, but he didn't really know how to ask.

[Lord Windos]

"A Pawnard and Ghastly? Not only are these difficult Pokémon to obtain, they are well known for them are their evolution being notoriously disobedient if their master has not gained their total loyalty and respect. You must be a quite the talent mercenary if you can handle these two troublemakers," Ventus calmly said, looking fascinated at the Pokémon in Valder's possession. Steel types were amoung his favorites, with Dragon types and Friendship Pokémon being right behind them.

'Difficult Pokémon to handle and care for, but the rewards are so often worth the danger. Still, best beware of their power,' the researcher calmly thought to himself, before a kind smile re-appeared on his face. "Well, I say that just about does it for this interview! Me and you will further elaborate on the terms of your employment at a later date, but let us be done with this stuffy environment now! There is a festival to be had, and I hate to have all of us waste it in here!" Ventus exclaimed, uncrossing his arms and clapping his hand together. The Pokeballs in his hands were gone by the time he clapped, already tucked away wherever the sociologist stored them.

Outstretching both arms, he lead his friends out of the back room and straight into the lobby, keeping both the mercenary and Nathan at respectful distance from one another. 'I wouldn't want any unnecessary fight break out between them, even though the possibility is rather unlikely at this point. Better safe than sorry, though,' Ventus thought to himself, maneuvering himself between the trainers and their Pokémon. Soon, the gathering returned to the lobby, and he was quite happy to see that Shiva had returned from her business engagement.

"Shiva! I trust you visit to the daycare went as well as our meeting with Valder here?" the research happily said to the lass, casually introducing his mercenary with nary ceremony or aplomb. As far Ventus was concerned, the man could be trusted to work well with the group for the time being, and decided to broadcast his approval by acting as if they are already fast friends. Feeling happy excitement brewing within Shiva, Ventus curiously tilted his head at the young woman. "Hmm? Something has gotten you excited? Would you mind telling us what has put you in such a positive mood, beside your daycare trip of course!" Turning his head back at Valdar, he told him "Oh, and would you happen to have any snacks for my friend here? He says he's hungry, and I don't have anything on me to feed him right now."

[Dragonstrike]

"I assure you I know how to handle a ponyta.  She and Ralts here were actually the ones who helped me drive away that 'scimitar' we encountered.  I got the impression he wasn't exactly a happy camper when he came under fire from them.

"Anyways, it looks like a little more than a gauntlet to me, to be honest.  Looks completely mechanical.  Moving on, though...last questions.  Yes, I can tell you're uncomfortable for any number of reasons.  And yes, I'd rather be elsewhere to.  So let's wrap this up quickly.  Simply put, what pokemon do you have access to besides that Pawniard, and what brings you to this area besides 'just looking for work?'  Simple enough questions, right?"

 Valder thought for a second before answering. "I have one other pokemon as well" Vader said as he reached for his other pokeball.
 Valder inserted a little dramatic pause as he slowly sent out his other pokemon, "Come forth, Ghastly!" and indeed, out of the ball came a ghastly.
 "Here's Ghastly. it's my second and last pokemon". Treat it and Theo well, they'll acknowledge you after some time if my gut isn't failing me.

 Valder, guessing that they were pretty much finished decided to get a bit more comfortable. "Hey, any of you feel like getting something to eat. Oh! or maybe you want to go back to that girl from before. How many are there of you? Wasn't there also some kid?"
 Valder also wanted a proper introduction, but he didn't really know how to ask.

He was avoiding the question about what he was doing in the area.  As much as Nathan wanted to press the issue, he'd said he'd back off.  "There's four of us.  Name's Nathan.  That's Ventus.  Shiva's the girl.  Larry's the kid running around the festival.  Has an Oshawott.  You'll know him when ya see him."  Nathan turns to Swiftfire real quickly.  "Sorry to startle you like that, girl.  You can back off for now, though.  He's going to be traveling with us."  He turns back to Valder.  "While I won't deny that your services will be helpful, let me make it clear that you won't see any mercy from me if you give either me or Ralts a good reason to mistrust you.  I can respect that you have some difficult to train pokemon at your command, but know that any trust forged right now is just a thin wire that can easily snap at any time.  Don't snap it, though, and maybe Ralts and I will warm up to ya." 

Nathan stands up and makes to leave the room.  "Oh, and just a reminder, you can brief the party on those Scimitars later.  I won't be surprised if we encounter them again, particularly if it's the same one we just fought off.  Come on, Swiftfire.  Let's go check out the festival a bit before the day ends." He and his pokemon leave the room before Ventus and Valder do.

When he reenters the lobby, followed by Ventus and Valder soon after, he sees Shiva's returned from the daycare already.  "Oh, done getting a schedule together already?"

[Iron]

A man holding a trowel and wearing a frilly pink hat bursts into the Pokemon center. "Has anyone seen that mercenary? I need to talk to him. Tell him Spade was looking for him. Thanks. Sir, have you seen that merc...."

"Ah! Ah! Please help me if you can. I was tending my garden when a swarm of Combee swarmed by! They stole my favorite hat! It's white straw with a dark red ribbon around it. I will give $600 to whoever brings it back. Please! I'm desperate!"

He turns to go, then turns back.

"Oh yeah, one more thing. Zamboni says the Combee have formed one of their interlacing hexagon walls in the southern part of town, blocking off part of the festival. Squirtle races, I think. Yeah, they're attacking anyone who goes near, and I guess some people have houses there, and someone left their kid at home and is now separated from them. Anyway, he was also offering $800 to anyone who joins the posse to take care of the Combee. So you could look into that too once you find my hat."

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

- This happens before Iron's post. -

Oh! They're back... And they're safe. A little late, but as long as they're fine, that's alright.

She turned towards Valder. "So, eh.. Excuse me, what was your name again... Valder, right? You probably know mine by now. Sorry that I couldn't be present during your acquiring, but I had a business to follow here in town. I...assume, you'll be traveling with us then, so I do hope we'll get along well." Better not say now that she had a slight worry about that... Fairy and Steel, you know. "As for me, I, hmm... mostly specialise in the breeding and raising of Pokemon."

Next up, Ventus and Nathan. Hehe. Ven seemed to have picked up that better mood of her. Wonder how.. Was he one of those empaths? "Oh, eh... I've been at the Daycare, yes. I'll begin work there tomorrow, for three days in total, and Plusle is on the way to recovery. He should be fine tomorrow as well, along with Miltank."

"So, what are...your plans for Ginger Town now? Apart from probably visiting the Festival once or even twice. I heared there is a Gym here, is one of you planing to take on it?"


- And this after Iron's post. -

Aha... Eh, too bad Shiva didn't saw any hat that was looking for its owner. Given the design that guy described, she would surely notice if she walked by.

Combee... She thought those bees were actually harmless, as long as you don't get the brilliant (not) idea to either steel their honey or mess with their Queen? Appearantly they're causing trouble South. Hmm... she didn't saw any bees causing a ruccus so far, so it must be in a different direction of the Daycare and the Festival. Lucky!

... ... ... Wait, did he say 'mercenary'? Shiva could not help but to throw a suspicious glimpse at Valder as she heared these words. What is going on here?

[Lord Windos]

"I would like to challenge the gym, yes, but I have not had any luck in getting the require tokens in order to challenge him. I might just might have to pass on challenging the Leader if I can't manage to get ahold of one," Ventus said to Shiva, a little bit frustrated he had not managed to acquire one of the Carney Coins. He's not too please with with a barrier to entry, but he supposed that if their wasn't one Zamboni would be swarmed by challengers from all over the world.

'What better way to stem the flow of challengers than having a semi-random queuing system in place. Frustrating to manage, perhaps, but its much better than hosting challenger around the clock,' Ventus resignedly thought to himself, before an idea popped into his head. Well, while he isn't that well known in Cheshire, he is friends with Dr. Mallorn, so perhaps he can arrange a battle for research purposes? 'Well, it wouldn't hurt to try it, if I can't get a coin.'

As he heard the good news about Plusle and Miltank, he couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief. He was glad that his shoddy treatment and medical care was enough to keep both of the stable until real Pokémon Doctors could help, so that was a weight off his shoulders. "That is good news to hear indeed! Its a relief to know that the mouse is going to make a full recovery, and so soon!" the researcher said, not so subtly conveying his own elation on the matter.

When Shiva ask him what he wanted to do during the festival, he mulled it over in his head, before saying to her "Well, we can certainly try the attractions, and go shopping for poffin making supplies. We already have the berries, so all we need is the right baking mix, some eggs, and milk. There is also the event when a Sawsbuck is going to change its seasonal coat, so that sounds quite interesting to participate in! I was planning on going to it alone, but if you would like, we can go and enjoy the even together," Ventus said, taking a small breath as he finished rattling off the things they could do. There was quite the variety of things they could do together at festival, or at least that is what he can extrapolate from his light breathlessness.

Just as he was about to offer they go out together, though, the Gardener bursted in and hailed his mercenary for a task. Something about retrieving a hat? Glancing over to Valdar, he told him "Well, while I have hired you indefinitely, you can still pursue other job opportunity at your own discretion. Just make sure to give me a report of your activities after you are done, or tell me if the task is particularly dangerous. Long Term Assignment are forbidden, though: You are working for me now, after all."

When the flower tender brought up a blockade of Combee, Ventus eyebrows shot up in astonishment. 'Combee don't make that short of gathering in a town, as they are content collecting pollen in flower field. ...Unless there is a Vespiqueen leading them, and trying to make a colony,' Ventus thought, his smile now gone and replaced with a slight frown. Walking over to the man, he asked him "Good sir, would you said that a colony of Combee causing trouble in town? Would you mind giving me direction to where Zamboni's assault squad is, as I would be very interested in solving this problem before it gets even more out of hand?"

(I want to engage at the Combee colony. Its good money and experience, and it sounds like something exciting will happen!)

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

-This happens before Ventus turns to Valder and the concern about the Combee. -


Whoah, eh... What? Ven wanted to see that Sawsbuck event as well? And he was inviting her to come as well? H...how adorable. Brought a coy smile to Shiva.

"... I know, I picked up there will be an event tomorrow involving the local Sawsbuck. I...wanted to see that as well, and therefor gladly come! Just...hoping that I won't be too busy with work."

Oh, and he was inclinged to buy supplies for Poffin making? ...That's the one-time chance! Join him, for Arceus' sake!!


- And this after Ventus left to check out those Combee. -

Ah... As quick as they came, they already left. Nathan went to see the Festival, Ven will be investigate some Combee. Larry was...anywhere but here. Hopefully he was doing okay... Don't feel like pulling him out of trouble once more.

Shiva looked down to Cottonee, who got comfy in her lap. The fluffball seemed to be comfortable near and around her owner by now... Another smile! Damn, wasn't Shiva down and gloomy not long ago? What was going on now...? But, she got the soft tone in her voice back, which was a sign of positivity.

"So, lil' one, and what are we going to do now...? You were kept inside your Pokeball almost the whole day yesterday. Maybe we just go out and see the rest of town while we can... We also haven't tried out Growth yet."


--------------------
Mechanics:
Iron, bring up an Encounter of a Trainer battle for me somewhere in Ginger, please. For 100$. 1-vs-1, preferably against an opponent Cottonee's moves are super-effective against.

Yes. Dice rolls incoming.