[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[Nylon]

 Yes. "I should be able to inscribe those marks into the relic stone". (I can, right?)
Valder insists on doing this. He calls out Theo for his claws and waits expectantly, hoping to get the stone.

(I'm not too late am I?)

(Assuming Valder can...and no, you're not too late, Nylon.)

Nathan passes a pen and a blank sheet of paper to Valder, interested but cautious.  "Would you mind showing us what you'll be drawing, then?  We only have the one stone chunk, and I don't know how Tanuki and her Zigzagoon will react if we...alter it."

 (@Iron. What symbols does he inscribe?)
Valder tries his best to use the pen correctly, since he's not familiar with pens and other writing utensils. He nods thoughtfully to himself, not aware of the horrible scribble he just made and passes the paper over.
 "After that we'll turn the stone counter clock-wise and follow it.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Truth to be told, Shiva was somewhat silently curious about how that precious...what was it called... Gargryph can heal itself and others, she remembers how Heart told about how he passed some sort of test involving the Pokemon's claws in order to gain its favour. However, as Heart expressed willingness to demonstrate the powers of Gargryph, she looked up from the paper she was just looking through and was just about to carefully object and counterargue that he should not allow himself to be wounded simply for that reason, but sadly it all went way too fast and she didn't found an opportunity to speak her words out.

....More truth to be told, seeing how Nathan even agreed on it and how swiftly Ralts attacked with a Confusion when having received the order, outright SCARED HER, and she could only watch in lingering shock how things somewhat spiraled down even more all while she instinctively brought Cottonee on her lap even closer to herself with one arm. Throwing a glance over to Ventus, he seemed to be not too happy either, and she clearly got why he was somewhat disappointed. Sighing mentally, she slowly averted her gaze from Ven, delighted that he...was simply there, with her.

Continuing with focuising on the task and looking through the notes Ventus added to the papers in the faint hope to bring things back to normal by doing so, but that hope was soon broken into pieces as Heart fired back and summoned his Infernape to the scene. While he was still giving orders, in the blink of an eye a familiar psychic cat released itself from the Pokeballs safely contained in a sidepocket of skirt, directly taking a place on Shiva's right shoulder. Not hesitating and not holding back, Kyuu bristled his blue and white fur to look bigger than he was, and let out a SHARP and DANGEROUS *Hissssssss* at that flaming monkey, neatly underlining his sentiment by opening his ears to show the scary eye patterns there. His intention was clear: BACK OFF. Shoo, or you'll be hit with psychic power, fighting firely monkey.
That Mean Look Rose received went wonderfully with the unimpressed, annoyed and simply unhappy Mean Look Shiva gave both Heart and Nathan while she crossed her arms and waited for them to return her gaze or at least give the impression that they noticed. The tone in which she spoke...well, it could be compared with a Frost Breath. "Enough, you two. If you want to fight, get out, as this is not the time nor the place for doing so. Heart, you should not allow or even ask others to attack you, nor provoke it, it's enough if we have your true word about your Gargryph's healing powers." *Her tone warmed up for the next sentence: "But I feel it's a rather...unique way of healing, I'd rather rely on medicine and Heal Pulses when wounded. " Back to cold seriousness: " Nathan, even if he asked, you should not have obliged to him. Please don't attack ANY of us again with one of your Pokemon, regardless which ones and regardless what move,  regardless what reason, EVER."

Another bad memory assoziated with a conversation in a Pokemon Center's backroom was created tonight much to her regret, and after she kept that GLANCE alongside Kyuu on them for a little longer, she eventually impercibly sighed, looked away and gathered the paper she was just reading again to continue where she stopped, Kyuu remains on her shoulder and keeps watch, but he closes his ears now.


What Shiva has to say concerning the notes and choices of Pokemon Ventus wrote up as well as Valder's scribbling of symbols will come in a new post that I get started on now.

[Spiritmon]

Spoiler

Truth to be told, Shiva was somewhat silently curious about how that precious...what was it called... Gargryph can heal itself and others, she remembers how Heart told about how he passed some sort of test involving the Pokemon's claws in order to gain its favour. However, as Heart expressed willingness to demonstrate the powers of Gargryph, she looked up from the paper she was just looking through and was just about to carefully object and counterargue that he should not allow himself to be wounded simply for that reason, but sadly it all went way too fast and she didn't found an opportunity to speak her words out.

....More truth to be told, seeing how Nathan even agreed on it and how swiftly Ralts attacked with a Confusion when having received the order, outright SCARED HER, and she could only watch in lingering shock how things somewhat spiraled down even more all while she instinctively brought Cottonee on her lap even closer to herself with one arm. Throwing a glance over to Ventus, he seemed to be not too happy either, and she clearly got why he was somewhat disappointed. Sighing mentally, she slowly averted her gaze from Ven, delighted that he...was simply there, with her.

Continuing with focuising on the task and looking through the notes Ventus added to the papers in the faint hope to bring things back to normal by doing so, but that hope was soon broken into pieces as Heart fired back and summoned his Infernape to the scene. While he was still giving orders, in the blink of an eye a familiar psychic cat released itself from the Pokeballs safely contained in a sidepocket of skirt, directly taking a place on Shiva's right shoulder. Not hesitating and not holding back, Kyuu bristled his blue and white fur to look bigger than he was, and let out a SHARP and DANGEROUS *Hissssssss* at that flaming monkey, neatly underlining his sentiment by opening his ears to show the scary eye patterns there. His intention was clear: BACK OFF. Shoo, or you'll be hit with psychic power, fighting firely monkey.
That Mean Look Rose received went wonderfully with the unimpressed, annoyed and simply unhappy Mean Look Shiva gave both Heart and Nathan while she crossed her arms and waited for them to return her gaze or at least give the impression that they noticed. The tone in which she spoke...well, it could be compared with a Frost Breath. "Enough, you two. If you want to fight, get out, as this is not the time nor the place for doing so. Heart, you should not allow or even ask others to attack you, nor provoke it, it's enough if we have your true word about your Gargryph's healing powers." *Her tone warmed up for the next sentence: "But I feel it's a rather...unique way of healing, I'd rather rely on medicine and Heal Pulses when wounded. " Back to cold seriousness: " Nathan, even if he asked, you should not have obliged to him. Please don't attack ANY of us again with one of your Pokemon, regardless which ones and regardless what move,  regardless what reason, EVER."

Another bad memory assoziated with a conversation in a Pokemon Center's backroom was created tonight much to her regret, and after she kept that GLANCE alongside Kyuu on them for a little longer, she eventually impercibly sighed, looked away and gathered the paper she was just reading again to continue where she stopped, Kyuu remains on her shoulder and keeps watch, but he closes his ears now.


What Shiva has to say concerning the notes and choices of Pokemon Ventus wrote up as well as Valder's scribbling of symbols will come in a new post that I get started on now.

Heart in the right moment he was giving orders, Shiva have bring her Meowstic to the room, stoping both he and Rose from retribute Nathan with a Mach Punch. The fiery feeling of retribution soon fades and Heart stop to look the look of Shiva. The way she is indeed strong. Yeah, he pass the line of patience of her, and decides not going further in this pointless battle. As much he would like to give Nathan a well deserved Mach Punch, she is right: This is not the place or time to such childsh thing. Its even something wrong use a pokemon to resolve human fights...he is not better than other people. "...Rose stop the Mach Punch. We go beyond the patience of our friends." Rose stop the attack a few centimeters of Nathan face. A few seconds and he would be hit. Heart bow his head in Shiva direction and apoligizing. "...Sorry for that Shiva. It was not fair to make you both see such scene. We are close to resolve the mistery and we both doing such things."



Then Heart look Nathan again. "As much I was wrong to retaliate with a Mach Punch, that doesnt mean I will apologize you for trying. You could at least holding that Confusion attack a little, or at least previous warning before doing that. That can avoid a lot of trouble you know." Than Heart look again to Shiva, Ventus and Valder. "I promise not use my pokemon to attack my comarades or other people, except extremely necessary like fighting the Scimitars. I promise."

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

"Thank you, Heart. Many thanks for showing compassion and agreement, really."

(...) "As for Medical Supplies, I personally can afford either Two Revives or a Max Potion, or several Potions/Super Potions on top of contribution to the Mr. Finder Fee Fund. Speaking of which....."

Ventus pauses to reach into his sleeve and pull out $2000 Poke, and hands it over to Shiva with a friendly smile on his face.

"Here it is, as I have promised. If its necessary, I can pitch in another $1000 Poke to the fund, though I would ask the others in our group to fulfill at least one of my recommendation in regards to Medical Supplies in exchange." (...)

Huh, promise fulfilled! Shiva expected nothingelse from her dear friend and love, and thankfull accepted the 2000$ with a returned smile to pack it away where she stored the rest of the collected money. In the process, she also drew her star-patterned hardcover-journal, paged through it for a bit just like the last time until she found the particular side where she made a note of Ventus having contributed to the fine to hire Mr. Finder. Looking at it for a little, she eventually raised gaze to adress Nathan and Valder with the calm words "Me, Heart and Ventus have paid our part on the fine, the remaining 1000$ plus the expenses to fully cover the cost of 5000$ are expected from you, Nathan and Valder. You can hand it to Mr. Finder directly tomorror, or entrust it to me, as you like."


Next: Medical Supplies.

'You fooooool', seemed Shiva's mind scream at her, how could you miss some additional medical supplies to those you already carry, my dear?' Feeling a bit taken aback, embarrased and even guilty for opting to trust in the medical supplies she already had on her person, she eventually gave an appreciating look over to the dark oddball of researcher. "Hmm.... Ven, I still have these 3 Potions you mixed for me, and Antidotes I carry with me all the time. Let's see, I own.... Ah, three in number. I can get three more for us to have in total six on hand, as well as probably a Super Potion for my less fragile Pokemon. (Mostly for Tropius and Furret, or for one of my Pokemon with 7 or 8hp when badly wounded and further needed). Is that okay for you? Just in case, I also have a Lum and a Sitrus Berry Furret gifted me."

"I also remember that Hurt Loam the eremit gifted us, do you people have yours still? He said it's full of nutrients and allows a Pokemon to regain one HP no matter what, right?" (Means, practically like a Revive but only with 1hp instead of half?)


Next: Pokemon Choice.

That....Onix Heart lately mentioned to her was a DELTA?! Ugh... That earned the writting a somewhat scolding expression from Shiva, before she mnetally sighed again and shook her head impercibly, well aware that this was not the time to be put on edge by these Deltas. If it's prooving itself useful, she'll 'endure' it without objecting or showing displeasure. She herself is not sure about Ditto and Delta Onix, but finds it a decent idea overall. She has nothing to say about Ventus' Pokemon Choice, nor his notes he added to the other's choices apart from the following:

Braixen: Shiva KNEW Ventus would have objections about her fox, and she's aware of why. Giving him a slightly mixed glance, she spoke up to him in a calm tone. "Ven, dear, I'd rather have the fox with me for warmth, as a guard and to enlighten things for me when needed, he's dear to me, not weak at all and luckychants like nonelse. I hope that down there, he will value safety more than the problems with you. On the other hand, me going down there without a Fairy Type move and my dearest Pokemon in case we meet dragons or Dark Types...." Decisiooooooons! DX

Tropius: "Ven, having a flyer that has no problem carrying us all can be a life saver."

Both Combee: Now to think about it, Shiva wouldn't doubt Tanuki's advice either, but she wondered how the bees are supposed to produce honey when it's highly doubtful that within the mountain a sudden meadow of wildflowers unfolds among them. "Nathan, I can't help but to agree to Ventus. How does bringing some honey itself with you instead of the bees, and save the two slots of your party for different Pokemon sound to you?"

Valder tries his best to use the pen correctly, since he's not familiar with pens and other writing utensils. He nods thoughtfully to himself, not aware of the horrible scribble he just made and passes the paper over.
"After that we'll turn the stone counter clock-wise and follow it.

Shiva does not miss that Valder seems to have problems using the offered pen, and this earns him a tilted head in silent wondering and even...sympathy. Not in a bad way however, it was honest compassion he felt for him.

A soon as the paper reaches her, she does take a curious look at the smybols he has drawn, and will take a photo of them with her cell just in case, if Valder allows. The appreciation for Valder raises by 1, if these symbols and what he told about turning the stone counter clock-wise were correct, it'll raise once more - yet she couldn't help but to wonder where he knows this all from.

Additional Supplies and Concerns

Shielded Storage Containers/Digital Recording Devices. Reasoning: Preserve Information from Anthenum on non-traditional medium, as its likely that the Legendary protections have not been updated to accommodate this.
*Addenium: Possibility that protections not only extend to written medium, but to any knowledge about/coming from the Anthenum, which means that their is a chance that if we discover the place and learn its secret that we will forget about them the moment we pass a critical threshold. Might explain why place has remained undiscovered for centuries, other than general location being in a shifting dungeon like mountain. Possible Counters to this is using Storage Medium, but also giving our Pokémon our notes as Held Items and keeping them contained in their Pokeballs, since they are heavily protected pieces of equipment. Having Solomon to memorize information then be kept contain in his Pokeball in the event our memories are wipe is a viable option, as he can find a way to rely information to us at a later date.

Shiva has her cell that has a decent camera capable of recording short videos if need, with an empty storage because her old one got fried by the magnetic field in Mount Sentry when we evolved our Magnemite, as well as enough space to hand her Pokemon a few written notes. As well as a wooden crate that can be locked from Route 3 to contain delicate stuff.

[Dragonstrike]

- "The damage has been done, but it will be healed.  I wouldn't have done that if I wasn't going to fix it myself should things not go as expected."  Nathan doesn't comment any further on the topic.  It's far too silly of a thing to be arguing over, in his opinion.

- Nathan nods.  "Still have my Hurtloam.  I'm fine as far as my own medical supplies go.  Solomon's really the only one who might need a Super Potion, but other than that, I'm fine.  I'm conservative with my healing supplies."

- "Grass types that photosynthesize will be fine down in the caves as well so long as you make sure they get fed at least some Dry Food.  Pokemon aren't picky about what they use to sustain themselves if it comes down to it."

- "The bees won't be looking for pollen and honey necessarily.  They're great scouts with a rather amazing sense of smell.  If there's something edible down there, they can help us find it.  And I'd rather not rely solely on a Tropius for food if it comes down to it.  Besides, I used up all the honey I had on hand recently.  I don't think 4 large jars will be enough if we get stuck down there."

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

"....I'll restock on the food I usually give my Pokemon, if it comes down to it I can share it with them. I don't eat much when there are no supplies."

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

Heart sharp a fierce face in Nathan direction. "This is something WE seeing. Even that I voluntered myself, you could at least hold back in that attack you moron! Couldnt at least holding back JUST a little?"


Heart raise a eyebrow about bringing Delta Onix to the mission. "I think you right Ventus. Perhaps bring full disobedient Onix its not the most bright idea. Even with a Ditto assuming the form, its a little dangerous. There two options I would like to swap in Onix place: Koa because of his dragon-typing and ferocious nature, Percival because of his hight defence against many types and high defence properties, Hypno to sense danger AND put any enemy to sleep, Tynamo because of his ability we been training with Magnetic Field who might help us find somehow the Library and to have no typing weakness and Mukip as a source of water together with Gustav. That would might some better choices than bring a feral Onix to the battlefield."

Ventus shot Heart a sharp, warning glance that all but said: 'You are right, but simmer down there.....' , before lowering his severity and offered his opinion to the collector in a calm, friendlyish tone. "Thank you, Heart. My recommendation among your choices would be either Koa or Mudkip, as the former can help defend the group and clear obsticles with their immense power, and the later for rather self evidant reason. Hypno could also be a boon, but I worry if you've had enough time to fully bond with them to prevent them from acting ....duplicitously, so I say they should be left behind."

Spoiler

(...)

As for the Delta Onix thing...

"...that Onix is the best digger we have.  I don't think we should leave without it.  While Ditto CAN Transform from memory if it's met the pokemon before, it might not do so perfectly, or it could outright fail to Transform entirely.  I would like Ditto to meet the rock snake tomorrow morning to practice Transforming into it, but I'd feel better about the whole thing if we didn't leave things to chance in the future.  Particularly since Ditto can only Transform so many times each day."

*Thinks about this matter for a moment, before speaking his plan*

"If you are willing, I have a couple of compromises that would sastify everyone desires. The first is that Nathan takes temporary responsibility for Delta Onix, I temporarily take responsibility for Ditto, and either Heart can choose to take care of Abaddon or not.  If you wish to have them on hand despite the potential consequences, then its only fair that you are the one that should be mainly responsible for them. Meanwhile, I have done extensive research on and with Ditto in the course of my career as a Pokemon Researcher, and have great Insight in how their Transformation process works, so I can facilitate their abilities to maximum effectiveness. That would leave Heart free to choose whatever Pokemon he wishes to have without sacrificing party slots. The second is even simpler: we simply ask Valder to carrying Delta Onix and another Pokemon , as he doesn't have more than 4 Pokemon by my last count and can therefore act as 'extra storage', if you forgive the terminology. Of course, that option is only avaliable if he's willing to limit his own party slots and take such responsibility, *Looks over to Valder now* so what says you my friend?"

Spoiler

(...)

Continuing with focuising on the task and looking through the notes Ventus added to the papers in the faint hope to bring things back to normal by doing so, but that hope was soon broken into pieces as Heart fired back and summoned his Infernape to the scene. While he was still giving orders, in the blink of an eye a familiar psychic cat released itself from the Pokeballs safely contained in a sidepocket of skirt, directly taking a place on Shiva's right shoulder. Not hesitating and not holding back, Kyuu bristled his blue and white fur to look bigger than he was, and let out a SHARP and DANGEROUS *Hissssssss* at that flaming monkey, neatly underlining his sentiment by opening his ears to show the scary eye patterns there. His intention was clear: BACK OFF. Shoo, or you'll be hit with psychic power, fighting firely monkey.
That Mean Look Rose received went wonderfully with the unimpressed, annoyed and simply unhappy Mean Look Shiva gave both Heart and Nathan while she crossed her arms and waited for them to return her gaze or at least give the impression that they noticed. The tone in which she spoke...well, it could be compared with a Frost Breath. "Enough, you two. If you want to fight, get out, as this is not the time nor the place for doing so. Heart, you should not allow or even ask others to attack you, nor provoke it, it's enough if we have your true word about your Gargryph's healing powers." *Her tone warmed up for the next sentence: "But I feel it's a rather...unique way of healing, I'd rather rely on medicine and Heal Pulses when wounded. " Back to cold seriousness: " Nathan, even if he asked, you should not have obliged to him. Please don't attack ANY of us again with one of your Pokemon, regardless which ones and regardless what move,  regardless what reason, EVER."

Spoiler

Heart in the right moment he was giving orders, Shiva have bring her Meowstic to the room, stoping both he and Rose from retribute Nathan with a Mach Punch. The fiery feeling of retribution soon fades and Heart stop to look the look of Shiva. The way she is indeed strong. Yeah, he pass the line of patience of her, and decides not going further in this pointless battle. As much he would like to give Nathan a well deserved Mach Punch, she is right: This is not the place or time to such childsh thing. Its even something wrong use a pokemon to resolve human fights...he is not better than other people. "...Rose stop the Mach Punch. We go beyond the patience of our friends." Rose stop the attack a few centimeters of Nathan face. A few seconds and he would be hit. Heart bow his head in Shiva direction and apoligizing. "...Sorry for that Shiva. It was not fair to make you both see such scene. We are close to resolve the mistery and we both doing such things."



Then Heart look Nathan again. "As much I was wrong to retaliate with a Mach Punch, that doesnt mean I will apologize you for trying. You could at least holding that Confusion attack a little, or at least previous warning before doing that. That can avoid a lot of trouble you know." Than Heart look again to Shiva, Ventus and Valder. "I promise not use my pokemon to attack my comarades or other people, except extremely necessary like fighting the Scimitars. I promise."

To say that Ventus found the near punch out to be 'uninspired' would be both an understatement and exceedingly polite. 'Almost as idiotic as pissing off a Hydregion or its trainer (something he's had experience in witnessing)' would be more far more representative of his opinion. He would have intervened himself if Shiva didn't swiftly take the role as disciplinarian and saving him the trouble/pain, earning her an appreciative and thankful smile that also plainly showed how disappointed he was that such action was even necessary. 'Why in dear Reshirim's name are those two acting like absolute cretins about this? Can't we all for once get along in a discussion without grasping at each other's necks, metaphorically or not.....'

Thankfully, she was able to prevent the pun lover from doing something most ill advised and get him to recant his actions, which caused him to relax minutely as things more or less returned to 'normal' . Heart's promise towards him was meet with graveness and severity as his stared bored into them, before he tersely saying to them: "I will hold you to your word, Heart. All the same, I rather not have anyone of my friend investigated and tried by the Cheshire League Authority, so please exercise thought and restrait before doing similar in the future...."

Spoiler

"Thank you, Heart. Many thanks  for showing compassion and agreement, really."



Next: Medical Supplies.

'You fooooool', seemed Shiva's mind scream at her, how could you miss some additional medical supplies to those you already carry, my dear?' Feeling a bit taken aback, embarrased and even guilty for opting to trust in the medical supplies she already had on her person, she eventually gave an appreciating look over to the dark oddball of researcher. "Hmm.... Ven, I still have these 3 Potions you mixed for me, and Antidotes I carry with me all the time. Let's see, I own.... Ah, three in number. I can get three more for us to have in total six on hand, as well as probably a Super Potion for my less fragile Pokemon. (Mostly for Tropius and Furret, or for one of my Pokemon with 7 or 8hp when badly wounded and further needed). Is that okay for you? Just in case, I also have a Lum and a Sitrus Berry Furret gifted me."

"I also remember that Hurt Loam the eremit gifted us, do you people have yours still? He said it'llfull of nutrients and allows a Pokemon to regain one HP no matter what, right?" (Means, practically like a Revive but only with 1ho instead of half?)

(...)



Next: Pokemon Choice.

(...) She has nothing to say about Ventus' Pokemon Choice, nor his notes he added to the other's choices apart from the following:

Braixen: Shiva KNEW Ventus would have objections about her fox, and she's aware of why. Giving him a slightly mixed glance, she spoke up to him in a calm tone. "Ven, dear, I'd rather have the fox with me for warmth, as a guard and to enlighten things for me when needed, he's dear to me, not weak at all and luckychants like nonelse. I hope that down there, he will value safety more than the problems with you. On the other hand, me going down there without a Fairy Type move  and my dearest Pokemon in case we meet dragons or Dark Types...." Decisiooooooons! DX


Tropius: "Ven, having a flyer that has no problem carrying us all can be a life saver."

(...)

Conversation involving Medical Supplies:

"*Offers her a sweet smile* That would be most appreciate, dear. The more Potions we have on hand, the less we have to worry about sustaining injuries we can't easily treat in Mt. Sentry's depths. That Lum and Sitrus Berry will prove invaluable too, so keep them on hand just in case one of us falls prey to multiple Status or Lethal wounds."

(...)

"*Expression briefly turns sour at the mention of the Eremit, before he forced it back to a smile* Yes, those Hurt Loam would be useful no matter what, if we can't afford to spare Poke on Revives. Their usefulness inside of battles is.....wanting, however, so having at least 1 Revive on hand for those sorts of situations would still be ideal. Nathan, Heart, Valder, Shiva, I ask if you are willing to chip in for at least 1 Revive and/or Max Potion. We can split the cost equally for the Item, so that none of us ends up overly deficient in funds from the purchase, and as I said having one or the other - preferably both - would be a wise ideal, so what says you?"

Conversation involving Pokemon Choice:

".....* A troubled looked flashed across Ven's face, before they spoke up in a hesitant yet calm/reasonable tone) I never said he was weak, my dear, only that he would most likely struggle in Mt. Sentry against the prevalent Rock and Ground types that no doubt infest the lower levels. Rose and Swiftfire can provide sufficient warmth and fire between them, between Gothetelle and Calam prediction and foresight measures are well covered, and Ralts can provide Lucky Chants, as can Raphael if I decided to Tutor them it with their (Ralts) help, so taking Braixen along on a purely logical and logistical basis is.....well, inefficient and unwise. If you see fit to include them anyway regardless, however, I don't think anyone here will begrudge you of that. I'm just offering my perspective and advice, after all, so take it or leave as you may."

(...)

"Raphael can do much the same, and Grid or Skiddo can similarly help with either their natural webbing or Vine Whip. However, they still are a very strong choice in spite of their weakness and the lack of sunlight, so its really up to preference if you wish to bring them or not."

- "The damage has been done, but it will be healed.  I wouldn't have done that if I wasn't going to fix it myself should things not go as expected."  Nathan doesn't comment any further on the topic.  It's far too silly of a thing to be arguing over, in his opinion.

Ven actually outright shook his head in a irritation at the boy's words and feelings regarding his actions, finding them to be not only deplorable, but quite frankly insensitive too. "If you had contingency measures and safeguards in place, you could have told us about them before letting Ralts let loose that full power Confusion, and prevented all this grief from occurring. We've discussed doing such things recently Nathan, so either you have remarkably short memory, or you just don't care to include us on your plans unless forced, coerced, or illicit ed in some manner....

The researcher let out what felt to be a far too familar weary *Sigh*, before rubbing his face while regarding the young scholar with an entirely displeased experssion.

"......Why do I even bother to try reaching you anymore is anyone's guess at this point, but I still do so all the same. Maybe I like to believe that I can help you, instead of frustrate or demoralize everyone else in the process. .....Honestly, I'm not sure which one of us is the greater fool in this instance, Nathan."

Wow. Harsh.

[Spiritmon]

Spoiler

Spoiler

Heart sharp a fierce face in Nathan direction. "This is something WE seeing. Even that I voluntered myself, you could at least hold back in that attack you moron! Couldnt at least holding back JUST a little?"


Heart raise a eyebrow about bringing Delta Onix to the mission. "I think you right Ventus. Perhaps bring full disobedient Onix its not the most bright idea. Even with a Ditto assuming the form, its a little dangerous. There two options I would like to swap in Onix place: Koa because of his dragon-typing and ferocious nature, Percival because of his hight defence against many types and high defence properties, Hypno to sense danger AND put any enemy to sleep, Tynamo because of his ability we been training with Magnetic Field who might help us find somehow the Library and to have no typing weakness and Mukip as a source of water together with Gustav. That would might some better choices than bring a feral Onix to the battlefield."

Ventus shot Heart a sharp, warning glance that all but said: 'You are right, but simmer down there.....' , before lowering his severity and offered his opinion to the collector in a calm, friendlyish tone. "Thank you, Heart. My recommendation among your choices would be either Koa or Mudkip, as the former can help defend the group and clear obsticles with their immense power, and the later for rather self evidant reason. Hypno could also be a boon, but I worry if you've had enough time to fully bond with them to prevent them from acting ....duplicitously, so I say they should be left behind."

Spoiler

(...)

As for the Delta Onix thing...

"...that Onix is the best digger we have.  I don't think we should leave without it.  While Ditto CAN Transform from memory if it's met the pokemon before, it might not do so perfectly, or it could outright fail to Transform entirely.  I would like Ditto to meet the rock snake tomorrow morning to practice Transforming into it, but I'd feel better about the whole thing if we didn't leave things to chance in the future.  Particularly since Ditto can only Transform so many times each day."

*Thinks about this matter for a moment, before speaking his plan*

"If you are willing, I have a couple of compromises that would sastify everyone desires. The first is that Nathan takes temporary responsibility for Delta Onix, I temporarily take responsibility for Ditto, and either Heart can choose to take care of Abaddon or not.  If you wish to have them on hand despite the potential consequences, then its only fair that you are the one that should be mainly responsible for them. Meanwhile, I have done extensive research on and with Ditto in the course of my career as a Pokemon Researcher, and have great Insight in how their Transformation process works, so I can facilitate their abilities to maximum effectiveness. That would leave Heart free to choose whatever Pokemon he wishes to have without sacrificing party slots. The second is even simpler: we simply ask Valder to carrying Delta Onix and another Pokemon , as he doesn't have more than 4 Pokemon by my last count and can therefore act as 'extra storage', if you forgive the terminology. Of course, that option is only avaliable if he's willing to limit his own party slots and take such responsibility, *Looks over to Valder now* so what says you my friend?"

Spoiler

(...)

Continuing with focuising on the task and looking through the notes Ventus added to the papers in the faint hope to bring things back to normal by doing so, but that hope was soon broken into pieces as Heart fired back and summoned his Infernape to the scene. While he was still giving orders, in the blink of an eye a familiar psychic cat released itself from the Pokeballs safely contained in a sidepocket of skirt, directly taking a place on Shiva's right shoulder. Not hesitating and not holding back, Kyuu bristled his blue and white fur to look bigger than he was, and let out a SHARP and DANGEROUS *Hissssssss* at that flaming monkey, neatly underlining his sentiment by opening his ears to show the scary eye patterns there. His intention was clear: BACK OFF. Shoo, or you'll be hit with psychic power, fighting firely monkey.
That Mean Look Rose received went wonderfully with the unimpressed, annoyed and simply unhappy Mean Look Shiva gave both Heart and Nathan while she crossed her arms and waited for them to return her gaze or at least give the impression that they noticed. The tone in which she spoke...well, it could be compared with a Frost Breath. "Enough, you two. If you want to fight, get out, as this is not the time nor the place for doing so. Heart, you should not allow or even ask others to attack you, nor provoke it, it's enough if we have your true word about your Gargryph's healing powers." *Her tone warmed up for the next sentence: "But I feel it's a rather...unique way of healing, I'd rather rely on medicine and Heal Pulses when wounded. " Back to cold seriousness: " Nathan, even if he asked, you should not have obliged to him. Please don't attack ANY of us again with one of your Pokemon, regardless which ones and regardless what move,  regardless what reason, EVER."

Spoiler

Heart in the right moment he was giving orders, Shiva have bring her Meowstic to the room, stoping both he and Rose from retribute Nathan with a Mach Punch. The fiery feeling of retribution soon fades and Heart stop to look the look of Shiva. The way she is indeed strong. Yeah, he pass the line of patience of her, and decides not going further in this pointless battle. As much he would like to give Nathan a well deserved Mach Punch, she is right: This is not the place or time to such childsh thing. Its even something wrong use a pokemon to resolve human fights...he is not better than other people. "...Rose stop the Mach Punch. We go beyond the patience of our friends." Rose stop the attack a few centimeters of Nathan face. A few seconds and he would be hit. Heart bow his head in Shiva direction and apoligizing. "...Sorry for that Shiva. It was not fair to make you both see such scene. We are close to resolve the mistery and we both doing such things."



Then Heart look Nathan again. "As much I was wrong to retaliate with a Mach Punch, that doesnt mean I will apologize you for trying. You could at least holding that Confusion attack a little, or at least previous warning before doing that. That can avoid a lot of trouble you know." Than Heart look again to Shiva, Ventus and Valder. "I promise not use my pokemon to attack my comarades or other people, except extremely necessary like fighting the Scimitars. I promise."

To say that Ventus found the near punch out to be 'uninspired' would be both an understatement and exceedingly polite. 'Almost as idiotic as pissing off a Hydregion or its trainer (something he's had experience in witnessing)' would be more far more representative of his opinion. He would have intervened himself if Shiva didn't swiftly take the role as disciplinarian and saving him the trouble/pain, earning her an appreciative and thankful smile that also plainly showed how disappointed he was that such action was even necessary. 'Why in dear Reshirim's name are those two acting like absolute cretins about this? Can't we all for once get along in a discussion without grasping at each other's necks, metaphorically or not.....'

Thankfully, she was able to prevent the pun lover from doing something most ill advised and get him to recant his actions, which caused him to relax minutely as things more or less returned to 'normal' . Heart's promise towards him was meet with graveness and severity as his stared bored into them, before he tersely saying to them: "I will hold you to your word, Heart. All the same, I rather not have anyone of my friend investigated and tried by the Cheshire League Authority, so please exercise thought and restrait before doing similar in the future...."

Spoiler

"Thank you, Heart. Many thanks  for showing compassion and agreement, really."



Next: Medical Supplies.

'You fooooool', seemed Shiva's mind scream at her, how could you miss some additional medical supplies to those you already carry, my dear?' Feeling a bit taken aback, embarrased and even guilty for opting to trust in the medical supplies she already had on her person, she eventually gave an appreciating look over to the dark oddball of researcher. "Hmm.... Ven, I still have these 3 Potions you mixed for me, and Antidotes I carry with me all the time. Let's see, I own.... Ah, three in number. I can get three more for us to have in total six on hand, as well as probably a Super Potion for my less fragile Pokemon. (Mostly for Tropius and Furret, or for one of my Pokemon with 7 or 8hp when badly wounded and further needed). Is that okay for you? Just in case, I also have a Lum and a Sitrus Berry Furret gifted me."

"I also remember that Hurt Loam the eremit gifted us, do you people have yours still? He said it'llfull of nutrients and allows a Pokemon to regain one HP no matter what, right?" (Means, practically like a Revive but only with 1ho instead of half?)

(...)



Next: Pokemon Choice.

(...) She has nothing to say about Ventus' Pokemon Choice, nor his notes he added to the other's choices apart from the following:

Braixen: Shiva KNEW Ventus would have objections about her fox, and she's aware of why. Giving him a slightly mixed glance, she spoke up to him in a calm tone. "Ven, dear, I'd rather have the fox with me for warmth, as a guard and to enlighten things for me when needed, he's dear to me, not weak at all and luckychants like nonelse. I hope that down there, he will value safety more than the problems with you. On the other hand, me going down there without a Fairy Type move  and my dearest Pokemon in case we meet dragons or Dark Types...." Decisiooooooons! DX


Tropius: "Ven, having a flyer that has no problem carrying us all can be a life saver."

(...)

Conversation involving Medical Supplies:

"*Offers her a sweet smile* That would be most appreciate, dear. The more Potions we have on hand, the less we have to worry about sustaining injuries we can't easily treat in Mt. Sentry's depths. That Lum and Sitrus Berry will prove invaluable too, so keep them on hand just in case one of us falls prey to multiple Status or Lethal wounds."

(...)

"*Expression briefly turns sour at the mention of the Eremit, before he forced it back to a smile* Yes, those Hurt Loam would be useful no matter what, if we can't afford to spare Poke on Revives. Their usefulness inside of battles is.....wanting, however, so having at least 1 Revive on hand for those sorts of situations would still be ideal. Nathan, Heart, Valder, Shiva, I ask if you are willing to chip in for at least 1 Revive and/or Max Potion. We can split the cost equally for the Item, so that none of us ends up overly deficient in funds from the purchase, and as I said having one or the other - preferably both - would be a wise ideal, so what says you?"

Conversation involving Pokemon Choice:

".....* A troubled looked flashed across Ven's face, before they spoke up in a hesitant yet calm/reasonable tone) I never said he was weak, my dear, only that he would most likely struggle in Mt. Sentry against the prevalent Rock and Ground types that no doubt infest the lower levels. Rose and Swiftfire can provide sufficient warmth and fire between them, between Gothetelle and Calam prediction and foresight measures are well covered, and Ralts can provide Lucky Chants, as can Raphael if I decided to Tutor them it with their (Ralts) help, so taking Braixen along on a purely logical and logistical basis is.....well, inefficient and unwise. If you see fit to include them anyway regardless, however, I don't think anyone here will begrudge you of that. I'm just offering my perspective and advice, after all, so take it or leave as you may."

(...)

"Raphael can do much the same, and Grid or Skiddo can similarly help with either their natural webbing or Vine Whip. However, they still are a very strong choice in spite of their weakness and the lack of sunlight, so its really up to preference if you wish to bring them or not."

- "The damage has been done, but it will be healed.  I wouldn't have done that if I wasn't going to fix it myself should things not go as expected."  Nathan doesn't comment any further on the topic.  It's far too silly of a thing to be arguing over, in his opinion.

Ven actually outright shook his head in a irritation at the boy's words and feelings regarding his actions, finding them to be not only deplorable, but quite frankly insensitive too. "If you had contingency measures and safeguards in place, you could have told us about them before letting Ralts let loose that full power Confusion, and prevented all this grief from occurring. We've discussed doing such things recently Nathan, so either you have remarkably short memory, or you just don't care to include us on your plans unless forced, coerced, or illicit ed in some manner....

The researcher let out what felt to be a far too familar weary *Sigh*, before rubbing his face while regarding the young scholar with an entirely displeased experssion.

"......Why do I even bother to try reaching you anymore is anyone's guess at this point, but I still do so all the same. Maybe I like to believe that I can help you, instead of frustrate or demoralize everyone else in the process. .....Honestly, I'm not sure which one of us is the greater fool in this instance, Nathan."

Wow. Harsh.

Heart nod his head about Ventus plan in swaping each other pokemon. "I think its a good idea. I have no issue to temporaly give Delta Onix in Nathan hand and take responsability from Abbadon. Netune, my Mudkip, still dont have full experience in battle and I dont want to risk his life. And as much stronger is Koa, he dont have the suport power as Wobbofet have. Even one with such ability as yours. But you sure he will listen to me? If there is no problem about that, I will take care of Abbadon, and let Nathan have temporaly Onix."

Heart talk again with Ventus. "Again, I sorry. I will avoid something similar problems in the future." Then Heart look to Nathan. "If a certain someone cooperate too."

(@PhantomUnderYourDesk)

Heart listen to Shiva question and show his hurtloam. "Here. I still have my hurtloam with me. Two be more exactly. It might help us in the future in case something happen."


Heart dont say anything about Nathan and Ventus dialogue. He is in Ventus side and dont have any reason to defend Nathan. Because the words of Ventus is true. He just quiet listen and decide not to interfere this time.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

That Ditto-DeltaOnix 'exchange' is something Shiva would silently agree to, but she opts to keep herself out of this matter as it feels like something they are supposed to clear between themselves. Kyuu, still alerted and watchful over the others, stays on her shoulder as a guard shall things drift into a vile direction again.

Ven's sweet smile is thankfully accepted, and she notes in her journal right there beneath the notes concerning the shared cost for Mr. Finder's fine what she'll buy in the Stores tomorrow morning. Luckily she still had enough funds to easily afford it, otherwise she would have thought twice about whether this or that in her Inventory was really necessary. Hmm... She'd probably come to the sensation that the Enigma Berry was something her heart desired to have from the moment she saw it inside the Violet Tent, means definitely necessary.


Concerning sharing more costs:
"Having a Revive on hand is surely a boon. How much do these usually cost.... Ah, 1.500$, means 300$ for each of us. I'm fine contributing this amount, Ven, and would even volunteer to buy it if given the resepective sum from everyone when I'll make a quick-trip to the Department Store anyway tomorrow morning."


Concering the Hurtloam Heart showed:
If Heart allows, Shiva takes it in her hand to examite it from a short distance, then respectfully hand it back. "It's cool that you even have two, Heart! Please use them wisely."

 
Concerning Braixen/Cottonee Choice:
What Ventus said about the prevalent Rock and Ground Types down below the mountain hit Shiva hard, but it hit a positive nerve as it caused her to rethink the choice between her magical fox for warmth and light and her dearest fluffball for the fae aspect and the eternal bond she shares with her.... The latter ringed within her mind... Eventually, she looked down to mentioned fluffball in her lap with a pondering and subtly content expression. It seems that Shiva has made up her mind. "Cottonee, dear one," she softly spoke to her Starter, "would you agree coming with me on a trip down a mountain, in search for an elusive place? I love you, and I'd love to have you with me, ever... But the environment down there is harsh, cold, dark and possibly moist, do you...WANT to come with me? If there'll be dragon and dark Pokemon, you'll be my first choice." (How does Cottonee react to all this, @Iron?)

Tropius is way bigger than a Togekiss and would have less problems carrying a human or even two, he'll be in Shiva's Team for the trip for sure. He's obediant.


Concerning the last...issue:
For the most part, Shiva agrees with Ventus a less harsh way and doesn't desire to stress herself anymore over the argument happened, neither does she desire for Ventus to do so, so invisible from under the table she raises her hand and arm to compassionately and dearly place it on her love's back; if he allows, Cottonee does also place herself on his shoulder to gift him a kind nuzzle with her fluff upon seeing how Master cares for this person and how emotionally distressed he was.

She simply desires to end this discussion and head to bed soon.

[Dragonstrike]

"...if I didn't care to include you, we wouldn't all be sitting here right now, planning how we're going to tackle the caves as a group.  Now, are we done bickering about something that doesn't even matter in the long run and going to get things done?"

Concerning the Pokemon Selection...

"...I am trying to factor in the fact that Valder can carry two extra pokemon.  Between all 5 of us, that's 30 pokemon we can carry.  I can loan out Starmie, both Combee, and Grid without any issues for the most part.  I can potentially loan Yule to Shiva because he likes her, but he'll want to stay close to Swiftfire whenever possible, I'm sure.  The Combee will also want to stay close together as often as possible.  My other pokemon, I can't make any guarantees they'll behave for a long period of time if we end up separated.  I have..."

*looks at notes and counts*

"...32 pokemon listed.  Which 2 are going to be the least necessary?"  Nathan glances at Gargryph.  He's still waiting to see how...and if...it will go about healing Heart...

Pokemon

- Ralts (Hypnosis, Lucky Chant, Heal Pulse, can heal himself, not leaving Nathan's party, period)
- Calam the Absol (Dark type, danger sense and Future Sight, Me First, Taunt, very strong, VERY fast)
- Starmie (Illuminate and a Water type)
- Solomon the Slowking (knowledgeable, Hidden Power, Water type)
- Yule the Skiddo (Vine Whip, sturdy mount if anyone is having trouble walking)
- Swiftfire the Rapidash (dim light source, sturdy mount if anyone is having trouble walking, can generate money over a long period of time with Pay Day)
- Zippy and Princess the Combee (can help gather food and water)
- Grid the Galvantula (Can spin webbing and generate electricity if needed)
- Ditto (self explanatory)

- Lilith the Gothitelle (knows many important things according to the Shelter, Future Sight, but somewhat Disobedient)
- Tropius (produces fruit, can fly the group over gaps they otherwise couldn't pass, strong Grass type, sturdy mount if anyone is having trouble walking)
- Furret (navigator, bulky, Me First)
- Azu the Azumarill (Helping Hand, Huge Power, Water type, chipper)
- Yena the Poochyena (Keen sense of smell, tenacious, slightly bioluminescent due to a genetic oddity, Dark type)
- Cottonee (Grass and Fairy type, can heal herself)

- Gustav the Clawitzer (Water type, Heal Pulse, Mega Launcher)
- Rose the Infernape (dim illumination, very strong attacker at the expense of her own safety)
- Patrat (navigator, sharp eyesight)
- Delta Onix (Can burrow, but is disobedient.  Ditto's help is probably necessary)
- Trevenant (scary tree, can heal himself)
- Gargryph (Healing ability can heal himself and allies(?))

- Theo the Pawniard (Dark type, Defiant, sharp blades for etching stone)
- Haunter (Ghost, Hypnosis)
- Frogadier (Water type)
- Mamo the Mamoswine (big and strong)

- Raphael the Togekiss (versatile)
- Aspis the Arbok (bulky and versatile)
- Michael the Breloom (very strong, easy to heal)
- Lucifer the Noibat (bat pokemon)
- Malphena the Misdreavus (Ghost, Icy Wind)
- Abaddon the Wobbuffet (self explanatory)

Concerning Supplies...

"...if we have a few Hurtloams, then we just need a Max Potion if an emergency occurs, assuming everyone already has the Potions, Super Potions, and Antidotes handy.  That's going to be $500 per person if we split the cost of one equally."

Nathan spends a few minutes copying some of his notes, then hands out a checklist to everyone.

General Stuff to bring

[ ] Lots of Food and Water (store extra in pokeballs to carry more)
[ ] Light sources (Flashlights, headlamps...)
[ ]Climbing Gear (pitons are particularly useful.  Can be used in combination with metal nets the local pokemart sells to hold back rock slides)
[ ] A couple balls of kite string
[ ] Digging tools
[X] Pokemon that can summon or find food and water
[X] Pokemon that can burrow and/or Dig
[X] Pokemon that can act as a light source (Illuminate, Fire types...)
[X] Pokemon that can heal others (Heal Pulse, Milk Drink, Softboiled, Wish...)
[X] Pokemon that can help in additional ways
[ ] Repels? (Would need a lot to be useful for a long period of time)
[ ] Clothes that keep us warm [Nathan's very glad Shiva thought of that]
[ ] Pokeballs! Many many Pokeballs.
[ ] Many Potions, some Super Potions, some Revives/Hurtloam, a Max Potion?, many Antidotes
[ ] Digital recording devices (might be useful for recording info)