[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Shiva makes sure to take every admonishment Dagny's writting about to her heart. She does not especially like the expectation to be searched... But she'll let it happen if necessary. She has to if she...wishes to save one of those special Eeveelutions... Quite delighted however she's about those peopke of the military not being allowef about forcing her into battle for th sake of training!~ Although the thought of possibly beating someone from the military amuses her. And especially it does amuse WHIMSICOTT.



When Nathan and Gallade eventually arrive, she greets them rather cheery and joyous. The former's request to 'talk with them real quick' causes her to at first frown, then worry, then blush lightly; but much like Ven she agrees and listens carefully to what the young historian wishes to tell/ask them.

[Dragonstrike]

Nathan takes a deep breath, knowing he's probably about to spoil the mood somewhat.  "Thanks.  Okay, so...I wanted to tell you guys this before we went to Garlicburg, just in case we...well, find more than we bargained for.  The tunnels that run underneath the entirety of this region...at least a few of them connect Garlicburg to the lower layers of the Skull Ruins from what I can tell from the information I've been presented with.  And I have reason to believe that the influence of something very dangerous on the lowest layer of the Ruins is spreading..."

"...unfortunately, Ventus, that means I have evidence that supports that hypothesis I mentioned the last time we spoke.  I really wish I didn't, honestly, since that outcome isn't exactly roses and gumdrops compared to the...alternative theories we previously came up with.  Though I suppose those possibilities weren't exactly great either...hahahaha..."

Nathan coughs and looks at the ground.  "...I, uh...don't want to bother you guys too much about this right now, and I'd much rather focus on the current objective too, but...just, be ready in case you see anything...unusually aggressive and competitive in the future."

Nathan's kinda half skirting around the topic, unsure if he really wants to divulge all the details plainly despite being resolved to issuing this warning.  There's just enough there for Shiva and Ventus to know what Nathan's referring to in certain parts, but the lack of context muddies some of the meaning.

Nathan follows up by trying to lessen the tension and change the topic to something more directly relevant.  "...anyways, it's mostly just a...bad feeling I have.  It might be unwarranted.  We should just...be cautious, ya know?  Garlicburg's gonna be dangerous regardless, after all.  By the way, there was also something I wanted to ask you to help me with, Ven.  See, uh...I kinda promised that Seadra I caught that I would help evolve them, and I don't intend to go back on my word now.  I've got the Dragon Scale he needs, so I just need to do a trade to seal the deal.  Given that you're good with Dragons as well, I figured that Seadra would be more...comfortable with the idea if you were to help facilitate its evolution.  So...can I ask for your help with that?"

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

The very first feeling Shiva gets once Nathan's opened up is RELIEF. A relief that she mindfully conceals to prevent both Ven and Gallade from picking up, she does not want to lead things into weird or sentive directions... Since this relief stems solely and entirerly from the fact that Nathan did NOT raise any questions of the relationship between her and Ven, in what sort of relationship they  stand, since when, blahblah. Why yes, of course he may and everything, but... She just would not enjoy it, that's all. That, and she's not obliged to tell the others in the group about it, she and the Sociologist themselves agreed to to keep things secret (even if it may be an open secret?), and it's nothing too unusual for people to find themselves on these journeys Pokemon Trainers often take!!1!


Once that feeling has fleeted, Shiva gives the young historian and  their psychic knight a worried glance, a you-don't-say-memeface, a neutral stare and eventually a faint but agreeing smile; and she also crosses her arms lightly to express more seriousness and because it's just comfortable. When she responds to Nathan, her tone of voice is kind. "Soooo.... Well, Nathan, you've just outspoken what I've been feeling - fearing? - for some time now, ever since that..EYE became more and more present in dear Lilith's visions. To, uh, put it briefly, yes I will be careful - 'Of course I will, I don't need to be told to do so', her inner voice adds, and she JUST manages to bite her tongue to not roll her eyes - and to use much less words than you did, I, ehm... Think that it's only A MATTER OF TIME until we either need or will have to pay that final layer a visit."

At that thought, a dim hint of sparkles washes over her eyes - it is the layer full of the most amazing things known to mankind and more, she's having a hard time to imagine all the LOOT down there! Uh, and the danger down there, that too, but they've got the Artifacts. That enough is quite reassuring!~

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

Nathan takes a deep breath, knowing he's probably about to spoil the mood somewhat.  "Thanks.  Okay, so...I wanted to tell you guys this before we went to Garlicburg, just in case we...well, find more than we bargained for.  The tunnels that run underneath the entirety of this region...at least a few of them connect Garlicburg to the lower layers of the Skull Ruins from what I can tell from the information I've been presented with.  And I have reason to believe that the influence of something very dangerous on the lowest layer of the Ruins is spreading..."

"...unfortunately, Ventus, that means I have evidence that supports that hypothesis I mentioned the last time we spoke.  I really wish I didn't, honestly, since that outcome isn't exactly roses and gumdrops compared to the...alternative theories we previously came up with.  Though I suppose those possibilities weren't exactly great either...hahahaha..."

Nathan coughs and looks at the ground.  "...I, uh...don't want to bother you guys too much about this right now, and I'd much rather focus on the current objective too, but...just, be ready in case you see anything...unusually aggressive and competitive in the future."



Nathan's kinda half skirting around the topic, unsure if he really wants to divulge all the details plainly despite being resolved to issuing this warning.  There's just enough there for Shiva and Ventus to know what Nathan's referring to in certain parts, but the lack of context muddies some of the meaning.

Nathan follows up by trying to lessen the tension and change the topic to something more directly relevant.  "...anyways, it's mostly just a...bad feeling I have.  It might be unwarranted.  We should just...be cautious, ya know?  Garlicburg's gonna be dangerous regardless, after all.  By the way, there was also something I wanted to ask you to help me with, Ven.  See, uh...I kinda promised that Seadra I caught that I would help evolve them, and I don't intend to go back on my word now.  I've got the Dragon Scale he needs, so I just need to do a trade to seal the deal.  Given that you're good with Dragons as well, I figured that Seadra would be more...comfortable with the idea if you were to help facilitate its evolution.  So...can I ask for your help with that?"

Ventus patiently listened to his old friend haltingly and hesitatingly shared what they wished to tell him and Shiva about, his expression not once changing from that pleasant , warm, and welcoming smile. Once they were finished, it took the empathetic researcher a little less than a minute musing about the details and recalling what they were alluding to for everything the young historian said to 'clink' . When that happened, he tilted his head the other way at them as he pondered the complete revelation of deep, dark, and foul, evil magicks being responsible for that incident, and the perversion and of so many things once good into pure evil or ill fortune for him and/or his group.

"Ah. I see."

His expression didn't change, but almost immediately their was a new air about him that would put at least Gallade and possibly Shiva and Raphael on edge. A dangerous, borderline sinister feeling that only hinted at the sheer fear and malice he held for all things arcane , magical , and supernatural.

"Hmm...I suppose it is as you say. Given the sheer and considerable capability of you and the rest of our friends, such trouble shouldn't be a onerous concern for our holiday getway. As for myself.....well, me and family are not on your august level, but we can certainly deal with such pesky issues ourselves if need be, should they crop up. We'd probably make a mess of things compared to you *Chuckles* but I'm used to dealing with such outcomes and scenarios, so worry not. "

The eccentric scientist's words sounded nice and innocent enough, and to someone without knowing more about him would indeed precieve them to be so, but to Nathan and his psychic knight who knew just a bit more about the....deeper intracies of Ven's character....

Ventus shrugged and continued to speak, overtly not bothered by the issues presented to him.

"In any case, all we can do is pray nothing so unbecoming intrudes upon our vacation get way, and no such eventualities come to pass. Until then or after all is said and done, let's just enjoy ourselves to the fullest, yes?"

With that said the air about Ven vanished, and he tilted his head once more at Nathan, dropping the previous topic altogether.

"Now, is there anything else you wish to discuss?"

Indeed there was, and the draconic man's face instantly lit up in excitement and interested at their request, bring both his hands together in a delighted looking and sound *Clap!*

"Oh, how wonderfully splendid! Yes, of course I'll assist in your Seadra's Evolution into a Kingdra! I'll do my utmost to ensure such a transition is smooth for the both of you as possible, and prevent the worst aspects and complications that Trading usually does towards a Pokemon temperament! Ah, this really is like old times, when I helped you Evolve your Porgyon every step of the way.... *Chuckles* Tell me, how are they doing? Are they handling their newfound perspective well, and not giving you or others very much trouble?"

If you have any particular set up or way to handle this Trade Event/Seadra before it commences, Ven is ready whenever to get it done! As for the Pokemon for the Round Trade for this, it'll be Lucifer, as the ultra-strong bond he has with them should allow him to perfectly explain to his devil dragon that such a Trade is temporary and they'll be soon reunited.

[Spiritmon]

Next day in game...Heart sleeping in the back of Delta Steelix. After the restoration of the forests and the evolution of Aegislash, Heart was so much tired he decided to sleep there. He awake, still with Lancelot with him. He decided to keep everyone update of the situation:

Hey everyone. Heart here. Took a whole day and night, but I finally the restoration of the forests. And Lancelot finally reach his final form as a Aegislash! Now Nathan and is not the only ones with a amazing sword and shield, heh.

Are you guys going to Garlicburg now? Time to put my Pokemon in action again!

[Dragonstrike]

Nathan lets out a sigh of relief.  He wasn't sure how that would go exactly...because that could have been much, much worse based on his prior experiences with the topics at hand.

"Yeah, I agree, Shiva.  It's only a matter of time before we'll have to go there.  I just hope these issues with the Eye don't become as much of an immediate problem as Deoxys was in the meantime..."

That probably sends a chill down Ventus's spine despite the lack of context for what exactly the Eye is.

"As you said, though, Ven, we should be able to handle whatever happens.  I have the Sword.  Shiva has the Shield.  I think Heart and Terra were talking with the League about the Helm and Hauberk.  Should be fine.  Of course, I don't really want to use the Sword unless it's absolutely necessary...should be nothing to worry about, though...*ahem*..."

Ven's question about the digiduck nicely changes the topic, though.   "Hm?  Oh, yeah, Porygon-Z.  It's settled down a little recently actually.  Still a little loopy, obviously, but that's the case for all of them, I'm sure.  I'm actually planning on running some Conversion drills with them at some point to see if it can reduce the randomness of it further with a little more practice.  That, and I'm also planning to ask Pulse (remember that mischievous Rotom?) to help them with learning Trick.  Trying to find an outlet for Pulse's mischief still.  Had an idea before the Deoxys stuff happened, but...well, my original plans fell through due to various reasons.  Maybe next time."  Nathan shrugs.

The overall mood is definitely much lighter and less tense after that topic change, though.  Phew.

--------------------------------

As for the trade, since Ventus doesn't have a 'dex on him, Nathan can easily FLY/Teleport them to the nearest Center so they can do the temporary exchange, so doing the trade now isn't an issue at all.

I bet Seadra can't wait to evolve!  Lucifer's a good choice for the trade as well, imo, since:
a) He's a well trained dragon, which should show Seadra that Ventus knows his stuff about Dragons already
b) Lucifer also (presumably) likes Nathan since the trainer did help save his life after the Seikemater incident.  That should help smooth things over for both Dragons, too.

Between those and the Ancestry bonus, I'm hoping Seadra doesn't lose any Loyalty during the trade.  In particular, I'm actually hoping that Seadra gains some Loyalty since Nathan's been prompt about keeping the promise he made to help evolve them, but that's the GM's call to make, obviously.

[Dragonstrike]

Next day in game...Heart sleeping in the back of Delta Steelix. After the restoration of the forests and the evolution of Aegislash, Heart was so much tired he decided to sleep there. He awake, still with Lancelot with him. He decided to keep everyone update of the situation:

Hey everyone. Heart here. Took a whole day and night, but I finally the restoration of the forests. And Lancelot finally reach his final form as a Aegislash! Now Nathan and is not the only ones with a amazing sword and shield, heh.

Are you guys going to Garlicburg now? Time to put my Pokemon in action again!

Nathan's very quick to send a reply.

Oh wow, really?!  That's awesome, Heart!  I hope you'll bring Lancelot with you so I can take some good notes!  You're not the only one who evolved someone recently, though.  Maybe you'll find the pokemon I evolved interesting, even though they aren't quite as strong.  Oh, and for the record, Shiva's the one with the Shield, not me.

We're just about ready for the trip to Garlicburg.  Mostly just waiting on you and Terra.  Make sure to check your PC for the permit Dagny should have sent ya, and make double sure to read her instructions.

[Iron]

Heart gains 6XP for reaching one of his character goals.

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

Nathan lets out a sigh of relief.  He wasn't sure how that would go exactly...because that could have been much, much worse based on his prior experiences with the topics at hand.

"Yeah, I agree, Shiva.  It's only a matter of time before we'll have to go there.  I just hope these issues with the Eye don't become as much of an immediate problem as Deoxys was in the meantime..."

That probably sends a chill down Ventus's spine despite the lack of context for what exactly the Eye is.

"As you said, though, Ven, we should be able to handle whatever happens.  I have the Sword.  Shiva has the Shield.  I think Heart and Terra were talking with the League about the Helm and Hauberk.  Should be fine.  Of course, I don't really want to use the Sword unless it's absolutely necessary...should be nothing to worry about, though...*ahem*..."

Ven's question about the digiduck nicely changes the topic, though.   "Hm?  Oh, yeah, Porygon-Z.  It's settled down a little recently actually.  Still a little loopy, obviously, but that's the case for all of them, I'm sure.  I'm actually planning on running some Conversion drills with them at some point to see if it can reduce the randomness of it further with a little more practice.  That, and I'm also planning to ask Pulse (remember that mischievous Rotom?) to help them with learning Trick.  Trying to find an outlet for Pulse's mischief still.  Had an idea before the Deoxys stuff happened, but...well, my original plans fell through due to various reasons.  Maybe next time."  Nathan shrugs.

The overall mood is definitely much lighter and less tense after that topic change, though.  Phew.

--------------------------------

As for the trade, since Ventus doesn't have a 'dex on him, Nathan can easily FLY/Teleport them to the nearest Center so they can do the temporary exchange, so doing the trade now isn't an issue at all.

I bet Seadra can't wait to evolve!  Lucifer's a good choice for the trade as well, imo, since:
a) He's a well trained dragon, which should show Seadra that Ventus knows his stuff about Dragons already
b) Lucifer also (presumably) likes Nathan since the trainer did help save his life after the Seikemater incident.  That should help smooth things over for both Dragons, too.

Between those and the Ancestry bonus, I'm hoping Seadra doesn't lose any Loyalty during the trade.  In particular, I'm actually hoping that Seadra gains some Loyalty since Nathan's been prompt about keeping the promise he made to help evolve them, but that's the GM's call to make, obviously.

The boy's deescalating tension brought a gentler smile to his lips, happy to see his handling of the....sensitive topic has put them at ease. It was.....hard not to be more.....descriptive and emotive about the revelations they brought him, but he somehow managed to regardless. Which considering his delicate mental state was quite the feat!

When they brought up The Eye, though, Ventus face went immediately blank as white canvas.

"The Eye, you say. Pray tell, does it have anything to do with the trouble you're expecting to plague us or the group in the near future? Because if so, that is rather uncanny , for I recall receiving a fortune of the future from that Fortune Teller in Ginger Town that implied much the same as you do. At the time I was concerned about it, but didn't have enough information to act on these visions or the information from them in any way, but as the visions came to pass and recent events I've observed.....well, perhaps it is time for to do so."

Yikes. That isn't ominous at all.

Terra's inclusion into the conversation causes the empathetic researcher's lips to briefly twitch, though, no matter how hard he tried resisting the urge to scowl.

"....From what he told me about that......matter and despite my requests for him to do so, Terra is still.....reluctant about taking the Artifact from that vile archmage , due to.....issues of conflicting trust and ownership of it. Doesn't think anyone but that man deserves to wield it, and loathes the very thought of taking away what is......rightfully theirs , unworthy such a blasphemous and heinous individual that man is. "

"*Sighs* Honestly, that stupid sense of honor and easily given fairness and respect for others is quite a vexing trait of that foolish man. It's one of the reasons why he was my first choice of replacement for myself in the event I had to leave, but it is so inconvenient at the worst of times or situations. *Waves a hand* In any case, if you want him to have that Artifact, you'll have to find some way to convince him. I've certainly tried, to not luck myself, so its your turn now to deal with him about this."

Yeah....things are still touchy between Ven and Terra. Nathan would be pretty certain that the eccentric scientist would actually fire that man or do something about them for the whole Scimitar debacle they caused, but due to their Hero status and now beings close friends to the rest of the group, his hands are tied from taking such actions.

The conversation being redirected back to Porygon Z causes a nice U-turn in his mood, though, bringing a slight smile to his lips despite The Eye most recent mention. "Delightful! And yes, all Porygon-Z are a bit....weird, but I've heard researcher are trying to find ways to remedy that. No success so far, but they might make a breakthrough someday. *Beat* Conversion training to iron out its quirks, hmm? Well, that's certainly one way of doing it, but have you thought of maybe getting a coder to try and create programs that they can Download to gain immediate and complete control over the Move, or at least speed up the learning process? One benefit of the Porygon line is that they can quickly acquire experience and advancement through technological and electronic means, so if you know somebody that can do the task and can compensate them for the trouble...."

"*Frowns* Pulse? Ah, yes, the Rotom you adopted. Hmm....if you want an outlet for their mischievous tendencies and as a method to help further solidify your bond with them, you could try setting up controlled situations were it can use its powers to prank people. Nothing makes Ghosts like them happier than spooking or messing with someone and having a laugh about it, so that's one bonding method I can think of. The other is sending them to Dagny to, ah, teach them some discipline, but I'm not sure that would entirely be a good idea for her or them."

---

And C) The Bonding Ritual between him and Ventus pretty much allows for the researcher to perfectly convey the info he wants to them, so explaining the Round Trade should be easy and smooth!

Additionally, Ven would ask if Nathan could possibly share the Legendary HMs with him to teach his own Pokemon, as he'd like to have them for his own purposes of convenience and research. Having his family knowing them would come in handy for the upcoming mission at the very least!

If you wish, I can actually have Ventus talk with Seadra about this whole Round Trade and inform them about his Evo, if you wish. Could even have him bring out his Kingdra for them to 'ask' them any questions about what its like to be one, as by this point in the campaign he's most likely had the free time and resources to make them completely Loyal to him now (and therefore not get into trouble / blast people/Pokemon) !

[Iron]

Dragon, I think I forgot to give you character XP when you completed your goal of reaching all 8 badges. That feat is worth 10XP.

As Terra lays one hand on Yogi's shoulder, Yogi shifts and blurs. Revealing, not a Medicham, but a completely untouched Zorua! The little fox is wearing the biggest possible grin at having tricked EVERYONE, including her master and a respected Gym Leader, in this way. And for an entire battle, an almost impossible feat for an Illusion user!

Terra immediately realizes that this means Yogi, who was supposed to get the benefit of an important battle after a long time of disuse, has been sorely betrayed by the mischievous fox.

Zorua just starts dancing with pleasure, and is actually surrounded by black light. As the dance continues, it transitions from four legs to two. When the light fades, Zorua has become a Zoroark - and that's no illusion!

Raised under the loving care of a Good owner, Zorua's ultimate prank fulfills the altered evolutionary requirements.

Mason is just rollling on the floor laughing, pointing at Terra's face. He doesn't seem to mind that he was aced.