[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Watching through the menu a little more, Shiva indeed stumbled over these light crepe handles as a speciality of this place. Hmmm... Now that they were already here and it's been a while since the last meal/snack, she shrugged impercible and hit the 'Order now' button next to that one filled with halves of Cheri Berries and whipped cream on the computer screen. Their delicious and fresh taste will go well with the cinnamon-taste of the beverage she ordered!


Needless to say that she was delighted over the thought of visiting Cafe Sonata with Ven. Or not, wait a moment... Will there ever be a chance to do so? And if, what has happened between them meanwhile... Eh... That anxious-joyful feeling increased just a little with that thought. "Sure we can, ehm, pay Sonata a visit! The question would be when, though... As I don't know when or even if I'll come back to Unova after this journey. I'm, well, kinda hoping to being accepted as a trainee at the Daycare in Ginger Town... Plus, I need to visit Telperion University because of Pancham anyway - they have an Extension here in Stair, did you notice?~ - and wanted to take a look what courses of study their offer." Better changing topic, because this was not the best place to think about the future... "Eh, but I'm pretty sure there are enough places to see in Chreshire already. Like, I read that the sunsets in Elanor are uniquely beautiful. Like, we could see that together if you'd want as well! I NEED and WANT to see Elanor... Because... SUN STONE MINE!!! I won't leave the city without my sweet Cottonee being no Cottonee anymore."

Following now were a few moments of embarrased silence, as it was relatively uncommon to see Shiva openly so eager. Must be the cinnamon, the atmosphere or the thought of having a Whimsicott. Probably all together. She enjoyed the thought of a small celebration or similar when/if Azurill evolved...

"Ehm... Anyway, thanks that you agree to meeting my Dad on screen. I'll try to call home later this day at the GPC... You likely won't get to see Mum at that time of the day, neither Spectral as she often strolls the yard at night, but that's no problem! Our Daycare is one of those that specialise directly in the breeding of qualitative Pokemon. No big pasture like Golda and Wir have, but instead mentioned yard facing away from the street to give the Pokemon some peace, a very good hatchery and a Nursery until the ordered Pokemon is being picked up by the customer." (Which happens in around 30% of cases, in most cases the Pokemon will be send to the PC of the customer holding an invoice) "I'm realtively sure he'll like you... Especially since you are a supportive person to me and if you let the sociologist shine a little. Just act natural and hint that you are experienced in handling Pokemon, and it'll be fine!"

There was another thing that Shiva wanted to ask him... Just failed to find a proper time to do so. Now however, with raised spirits by the delicous food of this Cafe, felt like a good time... "Eh... Ven, you mentioned having worked in Cafe Sonata - that reminded me on a thing. Like, you said you also worked as Make-Up-Artist for a while... Do tell me...No, how do you think would I be able to alter my appearance to a point? I don't mean in a way like today, more like when we need to disguise for reasons, like at that Scimitar Base in Wineberry. I'm short-sighted, so I thought if put off the glasses and apply black eyeliner instead of white, it should be sufficient... No?"

[Lord Windos]

Unlike Shiva, Ventus was just content shipping his Dead Eye and Turkish Coffee, experimenting with both somewhat to see if it was possible to blend both their flavors into a invigorating and delicious coffee blend! Perhaps substituting the drip coffee in Dead Eye with T.C., and adjusting the amount of Espresso that goes in? Altering the spices to less savory and more sweet, like vanilla and carmeal, to make the blend more paletable? Hmm....the possibilities....

The researcher could but outright quietly laugh at the sudden outburst of aggressive desire coming from his normally demure friend, placing his cup of coffee down to fondly tossle her hair once more with a now slight bemused (But no less content/happy) smile gracing his face. "I'm not entirely sure whether or not I'll return to Unova or settle down here and start my own projects within Cheshire, but I'm enthused to have your company should we pay Sonata a visit in the distant tommarow! Yes, I'm aware of the University's branch in Stair, and I plan on making a visit to research more thoroughly about the Dragon types and Legendaries of the region, as well as learning more about how Cheshire's culture of extremely high respect in Pokémon came about in greater detail! As for Elanor and its various amenities, I would be delighted to share them with you however we possibly can, including helping you acquire a Sun Stone should you have difficulty in doing so! After all, happiness shared is happiness multiplied, and always enjoying spending time to help others, especially if its a precious friend like you, dear...." he said, letting things go comfortably silent between them once more as they gathered their thoughts and enjoyed their respective food/beverages. Ah....that was some good coffee!

Despite his reservations and nervousness about meeting Shiva's father (Who he didn't even know the name of, much less what type of person he is!), Ven couldn't help but be fascinated by her brief but informative speal about the Daycares operations, especially the part about it being primarily a breeding place. 'Hmmm...interesting. If its possible, I'll have to inquire about her knowledge in the matter of breeding later, as that is one field I'm almost completely clueless about that she's perfectly suited to help fill in the vast blanks there in. That, and I'm curious to know what else she knows on subjects that is stored away in the depths of her mind, far away from most attempts to get at the arcane knowledge...' he thought to himself as he pondered what more had been said about her father/the daycare, before he nodded his head at Shiva once more. "I'll be the crisp and perfect image of a proffesional + gentleman, and endevour to give a positive first impression to your father.....or so I pray to Reshirim to make that so. At the very least, I'll not act in an extravagant manner and inform him of my occupation and experience, should he ask, so worry not about, dear. I'll be engaging in enough of it (worry/grief) for the both of us, so no need to stress yourself out like I certainly will!"

The mystical lass' next question garnered her a raised eyebrow, as the dubiously moral sociologist had not expected her to call in his matter on cosmetology and face/appearance alteration, especially concerning infiltration and/or espionage. Still, it was not that of an out of field question for him to consider, and the topic certainly had merit given their past/possibly future activities in regards to that wretch cabel of wizards, so he was able to easily and casually offer his opinion on the topic: "Hmm.....yes, it would be possible to disguise your appearance, but it would require more work, supplies, and effort that just minor touch ups and removing your glasses. Color contanct lenses would be a start, followed by darkening and/or altering the structure of your face with various powders, foundations, creams, etc.. , then some hair dye or hydro peroxide to alter your hair color, adding some hair extension or giving you a haircut, make up around the eyes to alter the relative shape of them to others... If I had enough latex, a quality wig, and time/resources, I could even contrast a disguise for you without such invasive re-makeover, but that route in of itself is rather extreme as well. Regardless of what method is used, it would be possible to disguise yourself....it would just take a lot of painstaking effort and time on your part to get things right. I'd be more than happy to help you, of course, but I since I left my own Make Up kit back in Unova, I would need to purchase another one here, and its been some time since I've practiced my old craft to such an extent, so my assistance might not be to standard unless I take the time to refine my skill more..."

Once more, silence reigned in between them, but that wasn't such a bad thing when it was filled with a pleasant atmosphere, the smell of fine coffee and pasteries, and the good, content, and peaceful cheer that had form between the pair. Sweet, isn't it?

Order: More talking, more advice, and more delicious coffee! Ven's more or less talked out at this point, so I'm ready to move on and have him meet Shiva's dad unless Phantom/Shiva has more to say that require them to remain in the coffee shop! There is also the others to consider, since we are kinda stalling them at this point as well...

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Sun Stone Mining with an oddball of researcher!~ That was a nice thought. "I'd be happy to have your help in acquirering one of these precious stones, Ven. That is, if I doesn't happen to be lucky in finding one on my own... I do hope Cottonee agrees in the evolution as well, but I see no reason why not... She has a special place for me meanwhile. Whimscott are quite the pranksters, but they also are very cuddly and faithful friends when they grew a liking on a person. Maybe one day we'll be strong enough to blast our enemies with the full power of the moon..." ... "You too heard that the University has an underground library? How neat! I'll need to go there as well. But at first, that meeting with the Director of the Shelter shall be it... Hehe, eh...Do forgive me if I'll be nervous." Actually, Shiva felt confident that the Director would be willing to agree to her offers... That didn't help the anticipated nervoursness though. Plus the fact that the Pokemon she's doing all this for will not only be a strong Psychic Type (Okay, Kyuu was too, but it was a little different since the psychic kitten hid away his immense powers [though the constant use of Confusion should do well on him learning to control this power a little more] but also her first Pokemon that likely won't obey her... Was Shiva ready for this? She wasn't quite sure about that, but she'll at least giveanything she could bring up.

It was almost amusing to see how Ventus was stressing himself about what Shiva actually had no issue with. It was more like she was...looking forward to see her father and tell him everything. About the Daycare job, the hatching of the weird egg, what Pokemon she gathered so far... But maybe not about how tireing and stressful the journey with the group was from time to time. "Haha, Ven... Sorry that the offer came a bit unexpected for you." She gave him a delighted smile trying to express calmness to him. "I'll only introduce you as a good supportive friend of mine if that may be your worry." She didn't say anything more about this and simply kept on enjoying the refreshing taste of iced Cinnamon Latte, keeping that smile for a little.

... She also gladly listened to what had to say concerning the alteration of appearance. Even if she felt it was a bit too much for what she had in mind, but it was certainly useful to know that Ven was experienced in that field. Even if his skills weren't the same anymore, as he said. "Ehm... Whoah, neat to hear so many ideas and possibilities... Thanks for that! I don't want to dye my hair though, nor cut is drastically..."

The silence that followed was indeed a pleasant one. Shiva did a little people-watching while enjoying the remains of her orders, before at some point she faced Ven again. "Now, uhm... If you too finished, we can actually head back to the Center then... Shall we? Right after we paid, that is." (Probably no need to substract money from charasheet unless GM says otherwise, so we can get back to the GPC right away. )

[Dragonstrike]

When Ventus and Shiva walk into the lobby, they'll likely see Nathan putting the finishing touches on his new alphabet pages in his journal, completely absorbed in the task.  Kirlia gives Shiva a very happy looking wave and motions for her to come on over.  He ignores Ventus completely, though.

(And as Orthros and Solomon are currently being healed, there's no reason to worry about running into the doggie yet, just so you know.)

[Spiritmon]

After Heart buy everything he need he quick return to the Pokemon Center to prepare everything to the return of everything. When he return to the Pokemon Center, he search for some ingredients to make the lasagna:

1 chicken breast
500 g sliced mozzarella cheese
400 g sliced ham
1 medium lasagna batter (straight to the oven, no baking)
1 jar of cream cheese
2 chicken broths (or seasoned chicken flavored seasoning)
2 glasses of milk
1 box of cream
2 tablespoons flour
3 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion

After finding the ingredients he follow the recipe he remember. After some time mix, making and everything along with his pokemons, the perfect lasagna was made:

Spoiler

"Took a little more then I could imagine but it almost ready. Now I just need to put in the cooker for 30 minutes and its ready! And I still have time to prepare the desserts."

Heart then prepare the Flareon Kit and follow the recipe. He still waiting for the return of everyone and make them a big surprise.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Shiva was loosely holding Ven's hand on the way back to the GPC. It was getting darker meanwhile, at least if taking up a look to the sky... This city still never sleeps, unless there might be a blackout cutting off the power supply? She already looked forward to get some good rest later on, while this day with the oddball of researcher was sweet and pleasant, it was also a bit of exhausting. Exhausting in a good productive way though.

Inside the Center, the first thing Shiva did was thankfully up Kyuu and Nightshade from one of the Nurse Joys. Both Pokemon were healed up to full health meanwhile. Putting both of them onto on the PC for now. Yena will likely recover the remaining health via a good and restful sleep at the end of the bed. She needs a free space in team to pick up Helios back from Nathan... It was also very relieving to being soft-forced to place the Mystery Egg of dark purple colour onto the PC thanks to the Breeder's Lisence!

Concerning that... Shiva certainly noticed him there on a table in the Lobby... He seemed very occupied with something. Even if Kirlia showed that she can gladly come over, she...didn't in the end. She doesn't want to interrupt him there in whatever he was doing as that felt rude to her. Plus he's ignoring Ventus, hmpf. So it remained at a delightful yet coy returning of the waving for Kirlia.

[Lord Windos]

... She also gladly listened to what had to say concerning the alteration of appearance. Even if she felt it was a bit too much for what she had in mind, but it was certainly useful to know that Ven was experienced in that field. Even if his skills weren't the same anymore, as he said. "Ehm... Whoah, neat to hear so many ideas and possibilities... Thanks for that! I don't want to dye my hair though, nor cut is drastically..."

The silence that followed was indeed a pleasant one. Shiva did a little people-watching while enjoying the remains of her orders, before at some point she faced Ven again. "Now, uhm... If you too finished, we can actually head back to the Center then... Shall we? Right after we paid, that is." (Probably no need to substract money from charasheet unless GM says otherwise, so we can get back to the GPC right away. )

Ventus gave two firm but confidant nods to each of Shiva intial response, his smile only growing kinder as Shiva accepted his offered aid in Elanor AND he saw that same surge of confidence that well up at the mention of Cottenee's evolutionary might. When his dear friend's mood threatened to plumment back into timid uncertainty, however, the empath gave her hand a quick squeeze, causing them to hopefully look into his gaze positively luminous with concern and untmost compassion.

"Everything will be fine, Shiva. My own dealings as a liaison to various groups/organizations and professional experience as a Researcher and Sociologist has gifted me with the ability to navigate almost any business deal or meeting with great competence, provided they are not dead set against me or my proposals to begin with. I already have plans and designs in place to release Kingdra and Gothitele into our care, so please don't fret about this, dear...." he said in a calming tone of voice, his eyes filled with Certainty as he locked stares with her. He'll obtain both Pokémon, no matter what hoops or deals he has to makes....

His blessed friends coy reassurances of her own, however, quickly caused his compossed expression to fracture a bit as he fought extremely hard not to blush at the implication of their statement and have a panic attack. Thanks to his Iron hard grip over his emotions/self, Ven managed to get himself under control before anything disasterous/embarrassing happened, and uncharacteristically  gave the (right now) very fae woman a meek nod as he busied himself with his own coffee beverages in an attempt to distract himself from such......sensitive thoughts.

Eventually, after a little more pleasant conversation between the two that didn't end up leaving one or the another more uncomfortable than not and finishing off their respective treats, it was time for them to depart. He left the appropreite amount of Poke to cover the cost of his drinks, let Shiva pay for hers, and they left the café and embarked on their return journey to the Pokémon Center. Upon arrival, he immediantly picked up Nathan's and Kirlia's presence in the lobby, and saw the later wave over his blessed friend to the table, and Ventus was very much tempted to politely excuse himself and turn in for the night. However, since he didn't want to cause Shiva any undue distress over his departure and link it back to the boy, he choose to stay by her side for the time being, internally sighing and gritting his teeth.

The researcher was keen to notice that Nathan was recording Unown calligraphy in his journal, and he recognized the modern versions of the enigmatic species (Whether or not he's able to read them is up to Iron; this is a case of his Pokémon Research blending into Lore/History Area that he's not so well read in), but the other set of blue, angular unknown came to a complete surprise/'Unknown' to him. He recalled seeing a trio of the species in the Shelter, and while he was far from kindly disposed towards the young, stubborn trainer, he was not the sort to deliberately keep pertinent knowledge from anybody he worked closely with. With a bit of weary resignation and discontent floating in his mind, he approached the table Nathan was sitting at, expression outwardly polite/pleasant, before he informed them:

"Greeting, Nathan. Shiva and I have returned from our excursions around the various attractions of Stair City, and seeing your notes reminded me of something that might pertain to your interest. During our trip, we paid a visit to the Disobedience Shelter, and I requested a tour of the facility for both myself and Shiva. During it we made our way to the Inmate Room, where they primarily keep all the adult Disobedient Pokémon, and we discovered a couple of curious Pokémon that I imagine you would find intriguing, in one manner or another. One was a Gothitele that had drawn a boundary between herself and the rest of the Pokémon their, who almost immediantly showed us visions about constellations and Vines. I didn't understand them all that well, as astrology is outside my field of expertise and the vision themselves were.....distracting, but perhaps Shiva has gleaned more from them, since she interacted with the fortune teller the most while we were in the room. The other Pokémon were a trio of Unown that were interspersed with the rest of the Pokémon, which were....(Ventus rattles off all the Pokémon that he saw in the Inmate Room [Ven might not know that Pinsir was transferred here, so this is the best solution I could think of to convey that he didn't see it/one while he was there]). Tomorrow both of us are planning to return to the Shelter to see if we can't arrange the release of Gothitele and Kingdra into our respective care, so if you wish to investigate the Unown and fortune teller yourself, then you are welcome to join us."

Ventus says all this in an even and pleasant tone of voice, though Kirlia could easily pick up on the fact that he was rather reluctant to share this information in the first place, and only did it out of a sense of obligation and not being a total jerk like them. The empath may be gravely offended and angry at Nathan for their (perceived or not) slights against him, but he refuses to stoop down to their level and return such animosity at all. He not only promised himself not to let them weigh him down with their stubborn insensitiveness, but he was (so he hoped) above such reproachful behavior, hmpt!

Order: Return to the Center with Shiva, and proceed to give Nathan an info dump of what happened in the Inmate Room in the Shelter. My character, despite his severe reservations, still has to interact and work with the boy, and keeping them updated on important/relevant information is part and parcel of that cooperation!

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

"Uhm... I certainly recognized the stars and constallations that Gothitelle showed in that first vision, Ven..."

[Spiritmon]

"Whooshy! Finally. Took more time than I tough. Thanks Arceus they have instructions how to make that 3D Flareon." Heart proud of his work. Since he think it was too much simple just make the Flareon, he include other Eevulitions in his cake. He have notes of images of other mons he see in his journey so he based the 3D Flareon and put in action with the other images he already have, and the result was quite make him proud:

Spoiler

"Now all I need is wait for the others to come."

[Lord Windos]

"Uhm... I certainly recognized the stars and constallations that Gothitelle showed in that first vision, Ven..."

"Ah, so I was correct in my assumption after all! Would you care to tell us more about them and what you understand about the Vision yourself, dear?"