[Game Thread] Lord Windos’ PokeRole Adventure 2: The Wild Lands

[Lord Windos]

To be a Hero for some, or to put the safety of You and Your Own above All.

What will it be, Wreathed Soul?

Darren warns the duo, here's hoping I don't screw myself over!
Darren also sends a quick message to Aaron (if memory serves, he should still be in-region) briefly explaining the situation that he's found himself in.

Since this is a Malefic Monstrum you're seriously thinking of confronting - aka the sorts of Threats that even Seddi, Bernard, and Oz would Struggle against working together against, depending on the kind and individual power level of said MM - I will ask this only once: are you 100% sure you want to do that? 

Regardless, Darron's text can go by ASAP without Roll - Aaron is LIGHTING fast to respond: ' I'm coming with back-up, so sit tight or get out of there safely. '

[Mikaruge108]

Since this is a Malefic Monstrum you're seriously thinking of confronting - aka the sorts of Threats that even Seddi, Bernard, and Oz would Struggle against working together against, depending on the kind and individual power level of said MM - I will ask this only once: are you 100% sure you want to do that?

(OOC: Not really, since there is a bit of a dichotomy here, I'd say IC it boils down to: would Darren be brazen enough to potentially throw his life away for strangers and the challenge?)

IC:
As soon as Darren gets the message back from Aaron, he heeds the advice, and hunkers down as long as possible. If things get too dicey for him where he is before the back up can get there, better to run and live to fight another day.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Spoiler

At some point (it doesn't matter when exactly, any time while we're st the Cafe) we'll also approach @Mika - Darren does receive a bow of respect and courtesy from the Scimitar. "Good afternoon to you... Darren was is, right? We've met before, haven't we, there in the park with the other chosen souls..."

If allowed, Bernhard will take a seat. "*cough* I've been most busy, so do apologize that I am running late on ersponding to your message. Either way, it...honoures me that I have crossed your mind, thank you. Consider me mildly interested in these Items you mentioned indeed, since whatever these may be, I shall always find a way to incorporate them into creations of mine. Your boon will be remembered, and I am certainly not above sharing the final result." *pauses, thinking over things* "...Do you have any suggestions or desires on what shall be made out of these rabid-Houndoom-parts? With the darkness and fire within them, I'm certain the result will be...vile and burning in nature..."

*slight flashback*

Darren passes Bern the ball with the poke parts

listed again for convienence

2x Houndoom Horns
4x Big Houndoom Fangs
1x Houndoom Tail

"Something like a battle item, maybe, and if its okay, I'd like to see the process as well." Darren is only vaguely familiar with Scimitar work, so this would be facinating at the least.

All these Items are glaldy accepted and put away for storage!~ [Aka added to my magical and alchemy-related Inventory] Bernhard's not going to even question how Darren has gotten his hands onto these Pokemon parts, double so given that Houndoom was rabid and is better to be, well, 'dealt with' instead of roaming around and being a threat towards the town. "Very well. *ponders* A battle items is definitely doable, yes. I will need some time to gather together anythingelse that might be of use for the crafting process, but I shall and will invite you to the process once being ready to begin. After all, that's the least I can do to repay your favour."

[Read: I do have an idea what can be done out of these parts already, and should have everything needed. Just need to find the time and actually take the Encounter to craft, probably some time on Day 4.]

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

Towards Ezmeralda and the Saphire/Eye Pendant:

OG Post 1

Ezmeralda look surprised at such a simple request being given to 'balane the books' , as well as the confusion about why, but she easily gave you a bow and a nod.

"Very well, though that is the least you deserve, Mark my words that you're be reward most richly for saving my Daughter - something my husband woud be much the same about.  *Frowns* I feel.... apprehensive about you getting close to it, now that I think about it, but perhaps merely 'nerves' talking. Come right here, dear."

You draw close to Inspect the Alter Pendant...

*Rolls*

...And you notice it blink and pull away from you at gripping it lightly - coincidentally, you hard a gasp from the spectral wife soon after touching the Pendant

"Oh! That...tickled? *Frowns* Odd...."

'Rewarded most richly'... Bernhard [and me, cue rubbing hands together in anticipation!] cannot help but to somewhat look forward to it, whatever the 'reward' shall be. Given the Gleams appear affluent and prosperous from what they could pick up, the silent eagerness to and anticipation of receiving is was quite real, enough for Bernhard to sport a mild and meek smile as he gives Ezmeralda a deep bow of respect. "I shall await and accept your reward most richly with glee, m'lady. It is a pleasure having been able to lend you my extraordinaire skills and a hand, for it is lovely to see your precious daughter being alright once again..."

That Pendant however... we'll let go of it quickly upon noticing it pulling away from being taken into the gauntet'ed hand, with a light gasp even, and give it a deeeep frown while gazing into that eye within the pendant. Bernhard remains silent for a while, pondering, trying to make sense of that reaction... There's some strange about it, no doubt. Something that spikes Bernhard's curiousity and interest, something that he cannot fathom...

*looking back at Ezmeralda, a worried look in their face now* "'Odd' it is without a doubt. Very so... Please, if you happen to notice anything further about this precious Pendant and you wearing it, do take note of it, for how it is different and altered now... I do wish to learn more about what occured, get to the root of it... If you permit, I shall and will visit you, your husband and daughter once again soon, least to check up on the latter." *throws a glance over to Saph, who is with Nirix or resting right now* "...The curse may be broken, but I cannot rule out that there may be lingering aftereffects of being infested by it for so long..."


Furthermore, Bernhard does desire to learn more about WHY and HOW dear Saph has been inflicted with such a vile curse in the first place. Since that is something he cannot make sense of, aside from someone having wanted to give the Gleams as much grief as possible (which again does spark the question of 'why'). Plus, if he happens to learn more or meet(!) whoever cast it, eventually learn to cast such a malevolent curse himself, Bernhard feels he'd have some grim glee on seeing those that dare to make enemies out of him suffer that much... Hehe, yeah THAT be something... [Potential new personal side quest unlocked?]

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


Towards Zephy:

OG Post 2

Your Partner is panting lightly after...that, eyes wide open as she placed a paw to calm her own racing heart. Your request nearly causing her to bolt up headfirst into the ceiling, but you caught her in time to prevent giving her a literally headache.

"Oh! Geeze, give a lady a little warning first! Don't know how you can shake off that so quickly, but it's got my heart beating like a Primeape going RAGE on the drums! Seesh, it's been awhile since something got to me like that...."

Your request - once she calms down - is meet with an eager grin as she gives you the closest she can to a thumbs up!

"Already brainstorming how to capture that scene in fine eternity, 'Sammy' . Will need some alone time and the right material to do it any justice, but maybe the Gleams would be willing to pitch in to speed things up. Maybe even give me some good supplies or pointers to get it down fantastically !"

Bernhard pulls away from his mythic partner reacting so....strongly towards everything, and with a whole lot more cautious and slow gesture he gently strokes her cheek with the back of his (natural) hand. "Sincere apologies, Zephy." *frowns, but expression is soft* "Your singing... It has been something else, truly so, I wasn't aware you are capable of such fine arts... A little practice on it may be in the books, for as word- and spoundless is has been... I did happen to enjoy it nonetheless." *cue very light but appraising smile for her*

He gives Zephy a glance™ over she too adopting the new nickname, having somewhat adapting to and having been begrudingly getting used to the old one ("'Erni") - though he does not want to kill the mood, so he lets her get away with it. Plus Bernhard may not show or express it, but he DOES look forward to his artsy birdmouse creating some splendid art of the scene! Alone time and right material shall be given to her at a soon opportunity.

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


Towards Saph:

OG Post 3

The precious lil' girl pouts at your light chiding, but an 'Ahem' from their mother gets them to reluctantly nod.

"Alright... I wanna play and run around so much, though. Feels good to move again, and don't want to rest too much now! But I'll wait if you say so, Magic Sammy."

Aside from her lacking stamina you could see she was doing excellently for being a Curse-riddled, borderline in a Coma girl; Medicine and the Healing Arts were not your Specialty, however, so you can't be sure if their are any lingering issues lying in hiding. The Panacea should've fixed them, but who knows if it could after dealing with the evil sickness?

Once again, how dear and lovely young Saph was in Bernhard's books! She receives her fine blue hair gently ruffled + a headpat once more, the 'grandfather and beloved granddaughter'-vibes intesify. "You're a good girl, truly... It is lovely seeing you up and about after you've been bedridden and comatose for so long." Bernhard prefers not to directly tell her about him being somewhat worried about potential lingering aftereffect of having been under the effect of the Curse for so long, least it'd diminish her joy and eagerness unnecessarily, Medicine and Healing Arts not being his speciality after all. Instead, he'll just word it differently, that will do!~

*leaning down to be on eye level with Saph* "Now then, dear Saph... I do apologize, though I have to and shall take my leave then, seeing that all is good for now. I am most busy and my pesence is required elsewhere... Please do not be sad however, I shall and would like to visit your and your parents soon once more. Least to see how...YOU are doing. Is that okay for you...? *awaits response* "Your father by the way, who has informed me about your grim state in the first place, is downstairs. He is in a Healing Slumber for now, having desperately needed being put in it after so much worry and anxiety for dear you... " *spoting a quite mild but gentle smile* ".....I am certain he will appreciate and REJOICE over it being YOU who will awake him from his rest. Once awake, please also be a good girl and hand him this, will you?"

'This' being a note that explains what has happened to himself [read: Mr. Gleam having fainted and been put under a Healing Slumber] and how Bernhard has proceeded to brew up a customized medicine for Saph in the kitchen, having made use of the Guest Room ["You hospitality towards me is and has been much appreciated"], ending with how he went over dosing Saph with the Panacea. It also includes a request to visit him soon once again, and ends with Bernhard's contact data.

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


And so does concludes Bernhard's 2nd Encounter for the Day, an Encounter I personally have enjoyed greatly and that I am looking forward to continue at some point by revisiting the Gleams and learning more about the Curse and the Saphire-Eye-Pendant. I also take this counts as my Strange Encounter for the Day, potentially even as my Special Strange Enounter?

The first thing we'll do is visit a local Pokemon Center to unfaint Nirix. Not that this will do anything about his exhaustion however! Given how taxing it has been on him to learn and use Healing Wish however, Bernhard is more than fine to let his magical unicorn give any rest he needs for now.


Next: We'll make an immediate beeline over to the Kupo Koffee Kudos by making use of Zephy's Skill of Flight and an Agility cast over ourselves via Evocation! Because yes Benhard did receive Oz's message of what has happened to her, and he does not like it A SINGLE BIT. Not that he does express it however, and not that he responds to Oz's message. Nope, him and his Pokemon-partners directly and immediately rushing over to her side speaks for itself!

@Spiritmon, Bernhard will quite likely meet her in front of the Cafe, floating/coming down from above. He takes a moment to observe the surrounding before focusing on Oz herself.

"Greetings and good afternoon to you, Oz. Do aplogy if I let you wait, I have been... most busy, my life is, well....." *briefly looks away* "...taking a turn to an eventful phase once more." He'll gently pick up Oz's hand into his Gauntlet-hand and put it to his lips (he does NOT ACTUALLY kiss it though, he's 'just' being polite towards the young lady Oz is) Then, Bernhard sighs. "Tell me, how are you doing? Are you alright after a most hideous crime has occured onto a humble lady like you?" Subtly so Bernhard lets their gaze wander, scan and observe the close surrounding with high alertness. The vibes he is giving off is basically 'I am here, I protect you, no one and nothing shall befall you under my watch and as long as you stick to me'


At some point (it doesn't matter when exactly, any time while we're at the Cafe) we'll also approach @Mikaruge108 - Darren does receive a bow of respect and courtesy from the Scimitar. "Good afternoon to you... Darren was is, right? We've met before, haven't we, there in the park with the other chosen souls..."

If allowed, Bernhard will take a seat. *cough* "I've been most busy, so do apologize that I am running late on ersponding to your message. Either way, it...honoures me that I have crossed your mind, thank you. Consider me mildly interested in these Items you mentioned indeed, since whatever these may be, I shall always find a way to incorporate them into creations of mine. Your boon will be remembered, and I am certainly not above sharing the final result." *pauses, thinking over things* "...Do you have any suggestions or desires on what shall be made out of these rabid-Houndoom-parts? With the darkness and fire within them, I'm certain the result will be...vile and burning in nature..."



Course of Action:
Bonding time with other PCs, Oz (who resquested to meet Bern) and Darren (to carry out the deal of the rabid-Houndoom-parts) respectively. @Lord Windos, can Bernhard also flex the Scimitar's fantastic relations with the Settlers once again and potentially hash out a discount or similar for drinks at the Cafe, check out for a few books of the Fox Nook (will state what information he'll look for specifically after you confirmed), or the Fox Raffle? EDIT: Especially so if via Myra he brings his own fox into the Cafe and lets her interact/play with the other foxy 'Mons? ٩(◕‿◕｡)۶

I'm in a bit of a time crunch now, dear, so forgive me to skipping to the point with all this; I'll get back to expanding on certain scenes of this if time permits.

====

With Ezmeralda!

INS + Survival + Alert - 2 = 6D6
(3)(2)(5)(3)(2)(4)

From the clues you've been given and the vague sense you're getting, you can tell that the Pendant is a part of Ezmeralda. HOW, and in what way elludes you still - more tests or expert opinions need be tooken, mayhaps!

Ez will consult with her husband later to see what a 'most fitting and deserving' reward you should get for going beyond their wildest expectations, and you have a Open Invitation to visit the Gleam Family Whenever and for Whatever reason! You literally saved the entire Family from their horrible Fates - such an Act deserves that level of trust and acceptance.

The only lead you have on the Curse's Origin is the fact that, as a prosecutor, Mr. Gleam could have made a lot of enemies doing his job. Magi and the Magic Community tend to police their own pretty well, though, so if Ruben did run afoul with one then looking through the records (his or the government's) should be a good place to start narrowing suspects down.
~~~~

With Zephy!

I'll get to Rolling for the Art - Miraculous Purity later, but you'll have to leave Zephy at the Gleams House to do their arty thing if you want the portraits done ASAP. Otherwise they'll have to delay until an Encounter is free for them to do so.

They also blush at your compliment before waving you off, trying to act aloof but none to subtle about how happy she is to hear that.
~~~~

With Saph!

She's more than okay with your request, though she's sad to see you leave so soon. If she was not just recovering from her Curse Induced Wasting Illness you'd probably would be more willing to take her to the Koffee Shop; perhaps another time?

The girl is also unsurprised and is rather accepting of Ruben's Enforced 'Get Well' Nap Time, and so too is Ezmeralda. Considering how in tune they've been, this should not come as too big of a surprise.

Note noted!
~~~~

At the Koffee Shop!

You don't get any Discounts on the Raffle or Adoption Options (They can't afford to infringe on their money makers, and it wouldn't be fair to other Customers), but between your Scimitar Status and the stunning Myra you get 1/2 Discount on everything else! Your fluffy fox is an insta-hit with the cafe crowd, all of them swarming around her, taking pictures and offering treats and pets (though being mindful NOT to touch her tail or anywhere she doesn't want to be touched without permission). She is positively radiant at all the positive attention and heartfelt praise, feeling especially proud of it and all the more grateful toward you for everything .

[Pokekitty2]

Spoiler

Gargyph doesn't acknowledge you any further, but you get the sense that is out of them 'saying everything that needed to be said' . 

Getting down is easy enough, really: One Sword Dance from Sir Later, and he's picking you up and setting you down on the ground safe and sound, giving you a bow as he did so. Ever reliable, your loyal friend is! Murkrow flaps on down at this point, still somewhat annoyed but having calmed down.

"Hmrpt. Prove and earnt my Insight most Keen, yet Keen you were to maketh fool and fouled of me. Still, Yet, Perhaps I should have double checked, before I went to Inspect that Which Fakes Life Stillness and Stone Life. Mmm...yes, yes..."

...Uh, was that an apology, or a way to side step their fault in things? You decide!

Aah, I hadn't wanted to use Sir to get down... geh, that's fine. As long as he's happy with it. (He does have Swords Dance? Cool, and noted.)

Sylvia gives Murkrow a long, hard look.
"Murkrow... a few things.
"First, you actually didn't quite solve the riddle... Though that may have been my fault. I wasn't quite specific enough, I think.
"Second, yes, I think a double-check was necessary. Personally, I observe more passively, so I must admit that disturbing them wasn't something that crossed my mind. You're curious - moreso than I - and I must keep that in mind.
"Third, you've got a stray feather there..."

Sir manages to keep a stoic image, but he's definitely in danger of laughing at the feather sticking up on Murkrow's forehead.

Murkrow gives Sylvia a long, cold look and the first two points. With a hmmph, they seem to accept them.
At the third point, they quickly smooth down the offending plumage and give Sylvia a disgruntled caw. Not in the mood to talk much, it seems.

>>Well. That didn’t quite go how I expected.
A small sigh from Sylvia.
>>What say you all we go find a treat? Some tea sounds nice.
Sir nods curtly, and slash seems excited. Murkrow, begrudgingly, agrees.
>>That coffee shop the Gargryph mentioned sounded interesting. Let’s see if we can find that.


By the time the psychic feline and her entourage arrive at the shop (hopefully avoiding any extra funny business along the way), it’s nearly noon. The shop itself has a quaint storefront, with a boldly declared and fully committed-to theme: Foxes and ‘Phants.
>>This should be interesting.
Sylvia enters, her ‘mons following close behind. She takes a quick glance at the menu, then hops onto the counter.
>>Good morning. If I could have four drinks,
she says to the barista,
>>A Persim Berry Tea for me, and… three coffees; something strengthening, something chilled, and something dark.

[Lord Windos]

Since this is a Malefic Monstrum you're seriously thinking of confronting - aka the sorts of Threats that even Seddi, Bernard, and Oz would Struggle against working together against, depending on the kind and individual power level of said MM - I will ask this only once: are you 100% sure you want to do that?

(OOC: Not really, since there is a bit of a dichotomy here, I'd say IC it boils down to: would Darren be brazen enough to potentially throw his life away for strangers and the challenge?)

IC:
As soon as Darren gets the message back from Aaron, he heeds the advice, and hunkers down as long as possible. If things get too dicey for him where he is before the back up can get there, better to run and live to fight another day.

Staying Safe is your final choice? 

Very well.

So Shall It Be.

~~~

*Rolls...*

You elect to not be a hero and wait, tense as the mother and child grow closer and closer to the....[b]creature. 
[/b]
Was what you were doing selfish? Yes.
Was your caution all but dooming innocents to a Unknown Fate? Yes.
Was it something that you'd regret later? That is for you to decide.

Was it for the good of your own Partners, new Friends, and Mentor? 

Yes.

It's as Aaron once taught you - Sometimes, a situation was utterly beyond you, and that getting involved would make things only worse. Sometimes, you got to make hard decisions.

Sometimes...you couldn't save everyone.

Soon, the Ghostly, Fairy menace stops sing and dancing, turning unerringly toward the direction of the family duo. What passed for surprise and then irritation flashed across its face....

Before a truly ghoulish, soul shuddering g r i n  stretched across it, many, many needle like teeth on full display.

With a faint, dainty, and fair too innocent sounding cry of mischief and joy most unwelcome the Monster floats off towards the pair....

....But not before turning towards you and giving you a wink.

My grandest thanks, my highest praise~

Star-Touched Soul

For enjoying my show~

And Helped Set the Stage

For.

My. 

Next.

Play.

Truly bone-chilling laughter echoed throughout the night. 

You didn't think - you ran. Towards the nearest Center, towards where you thin you'll meet your Mentor.

Run.

Run.

Run.

Laughter following you all along the way.

~~~~

By a great stroke of Fortune you run into Aaron - along with at least 3 Whole Squads of Police Officer . He is astride on Big Beaut, but soon he slides off to scoop you up in a hug, checking you all over for anything amiss.

"Darron! Boy! Are you alright?! Did that....Flutter Mane do anything to ya?!"

The police only pause long enough to get the details before rushing off - notably, none of them judge you poorly for what you did. You'd say many of the looked upon you with a certain amount of sympathy - pity too, perhaps, but mostly sympathy.

.....Doing a check on your person, you find something.

A Dusk Ball, containing Dormant Shedinja, holding a singe black-ish pink scale.

Payment dealt, offer sealt

Thank you for the fun

You itty bitty Bug~

Such 'words' resounded as you held the scale, followed the laughter.

That haunting, chilling, wickedly whimsical laughter....

Shednija's Stats: Same as Corebook, Knows all Moves up to the Level that Nincada Evolved (20) at + Hone Claws + Baton Pass + Poltergeist (STR + 4, Fails against targets not Cursed or not Holding an Item); can learn Final Gambit for 45 XP
Specialties: 2 in Brawl, 2 Evade, 1 Alert, 1 Intimidate
Ability - Same as Corebook, but has a Once a Day 'Immune to Fainting/Dying' Prevention if it's HP would be reduced to 0 (retains 1 HP); this Mon is Immune to all non-Super Effective Terrains, Weathers, Field Effects, Hazards, and Status (Exception Sleep, Confusion, and Disable); PDs and PD Moves are also subject to Wonder Guard
Surprise! - None
Fortune - *3
Traits - Whimsically Malefic Touched: + 1 Fortune,  - 5 Max Will (5/5), + 1 Dice on Ghost Attacks (Accuracy and Power) from and against Shednija
        - Deep Sleeper - Easier to put Asleep, and when put to Sleep put Mon into Deep Slumber instead; ignore Pain while Slumbering

[Redstone]

Encounter 3: In the private room

First thing Seddi is going to do is check the room for cameras, mics, and ensure any windows into the room have their curtains drawn.  If he's going to properly impress Kusanagi, he's going to need a little more than baseline privacy so he can introduce Leaves to her safely.

Ceruledge is out of her pokeball and helping Seddi make sure the room is secure, as well as making sure there's enough space for everyone to spar.  Safety first!

While checking and preparing the room, Seddi will strike up some idle chatter.  "So, what'd you make of Sakura, Akamu?  Thinking of followin' up on her offer at all?"

(assuming here Akamu was able to retrieve his now healed team in the short downtime after the tour)

''If it comes up while traveling sure but it's not my priority. However since I want to visit the Mangroves I can imagine needing to use this thing quite a lot, the whole spilling blood of my enemies  thing might not be too farfetchd. Anyhow I'll be preparing for a while to try and go out there and find my path.''

Setting his backpack down in a corner, leaving Lani to roam around as she pleased he retrieved the old blade, looking at the writing again.

''And that includes my team, we still need work to be ready for what lies ahead. Especially my newest recruit that's not a total anomaly, she's a bit difficult.''

(after confirming that the room is indeed safe from listeners)

''I'm also not keen on keeping this Paradox, from what I've seen so far it seems like way more risk and trouble then it's worth, coupled with just increasing existing major weaknesses on my team. If you want to take it in for research be my guest, I'll be looking to shore up my team with traits I need instead.''

Twisting the Ultra ball in his hand

''At least with Ultra Beasts I'd know what I'm talking about, this is a whole new situation.''

[Spiritmon]

Spoiler

Next: We'll make an immediate beeline over to the Kupo Koffee Kudos by making use of Zephy's Skill of Flight and an Agility cast over ourselves via Evocation! Because yes Benhard did receive Oz's message of what has happened to her, and he does not like it A SINGLE BIT. Not that he does express it however, and not that he responds to Oz's message. Nope, him and his Pokemon-partners directly and immediately rushing over to her side speaks for itself!

@Spiritmon, Bernhard will quite likely meet her in front of the Cafe, floating/coming down from above. He takes a moment to observe the surrounding before focusing on Oz herself.

"Greetings and good afternoon to you, Oz. Do aplogy if I let you wait, I have been... most busy, my life is, well....." *briefly looks away* "...taking a turn to an eventful phase once more." He'll gently pick up Oz's hand into his Gauntlet-hand and put it to his lips (he does NOT ACTUALLY kiss it though, he's 'just' being polite towards the young lady Oz is) Then, Bernhard sighs. "Tell me, how are you doing? Are you alright after a most hideous crime has occured onto a humble lady like you?" Subtly so Bernhard lets their gaze wander, scan and observe the close surrounding with high alertness. The vibes he is giving off is basically 'I am here, I protect you, no one and nothing shall befall you under my watch and as long as you stick to me'


At some point (it doesn't matter when exactly, any time while we're at the Cafe) we'll also approach @Mikaruge108 - Darren does receive a bow of respect and courtesy from the Scimitar. "Good afternoon to you... Darren was is, right? We've met before, haven't we, there in the park with the other chosen souls..."

If allowed, Bernhard will take a seat. *cough* "I've been most busy, so do apologize that I am running late on ersponding to your message. Either way, it...honoures me that I have crossed your mind, thank you. Consider me mildly interested in these Items you mentioned indeed, since whatever these may be, I shall always find a way to incorporate them into creations of mine. Your boon will be remembered, and I am certainly not above sharing the final result." *pauses, thinking over things* "...Do you have any suggestions or desires on what shall be made out of these rabid-Houndoom-parts? With the darkness and fire within them, I'm certain the result will be...vile and burning in nature..."



Course of Action:
Bonding time with other PCs, Oz (who resquested to meet Bern) and Darren (to carry out the deal of the rabid-Houndoom-parts) respectively. @Lord Windos, can Bernhard also flex the Scimitar's fantastic relations with the Settlers once again and potentially hash out a discount or similar for drinks at the Cafe, check out for a few books of the Fox Nook (will state what information he'll look for specifically after you confirmed), or the Fox Raffle? EDIT: Especially so if via Myra he brings his own fox into the Cafe and lets her interact/play with the other foxy 'Mons? ٩(◕‿◕｡)۶

Oz gets a little startled, still not used to Bernard's presence. But she quickly recovered herself. She is kinda not used to this kind of treatment, so she recovered, and bowed in respect to Bernard after Bernard let it go of Oz's hand.

“Good afternoon to you too, Mr Samsara. I can completely understand you might have things to do because of your…position, so no need to apologize. It was I who invited you, and I am thankful sir for someone such as you to accept my invitation.” She gives Bernard an honest smile.

“As for if I am okay…More or less. I mean, I'm still startled by what happened, but I'm okay now. I already alerted the authorities about what happened, and they are already mobilizing to take care of things right now. But…let’s talk about this with some drinks.”

Oz also walks with Bernard to a table, and if she is allowed, she will sit too. She is a bit nervous about what topic to talk about since she didn’t think so much ahead about this. And she is still a little nervous around Bernard. She coughs a bit to try to ignore the silence between them and then try to start some kind of conversation.

“Sooooo…How were those last days gone with you? They were been…cool or something?” Oz tries to smile, but still likes one nervous smile.

Way to go Oz…Excellent way to start a conversation.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

(On a different note, with my 2nd Encounter of the Day being wrapped up, both Bernhard and Zephy should automatically gain 1 Willpoint thanks to the latter's 'Ever Spirited'-plot device, bringing them to 3/5 and 4/5 Will respectively. It can also be assumed that at some point during interacting with Ezmeralda/Saph/Zephy he'll discreetly test whether or not he's still magic-locked)

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


...? Turnes out that Pendant with the Saphire and Eye is a part of Ezmeralda?

......Allow me to visualize Bernhard's confusion and perplexity over having learned this fact:

!!!????????????? (｡· ヘ·｡) ?????????????!!!

Nope, he doesn't get this like at all. Weird things, strange happenings and most arcane items he has seen and witnessed, but never before something like, uh, this. Bernhard wouldn't be Bernhard however if he wouldn't desire to learn more, find out what happened with that most strange Pendant (and Ezmeralda). There's also the fact that this Pendant 'accompanied' him when having brewed up the Panacea for Saph, and how it decided to act on its own and take a dive into the sparkly golden medicine. As well as Ezmeralda herself being here as a ghostly woman instead of 'just' being a voice and unseen presence. As well as her saying something about 'her return', and Bern's feelings of having more like accidently dabbled into Resurrection Magics (!!!).

All of that causes his head and mind to spin, he fails to make ANY sense of it now. More tests, experiments and looking to get expert's insight will definitely follow! Bernhard just...doesn't quite know where and how to start, yet that is. This also means that yes indeed, he will gladly stay in contact with the Gleams and appreciates being allowed to visit them anytime. So much trust and acceptance, it flatters Bernhard! Bonus points for them making splendid tea, and having a whole lot of gemstones and gemstone-infused furniture that Spritzee can enjoy and coo over.

We'll also happily make use of Bernhard's high political position when trying to find out more about any Magi that had a rundown with the Gleams, to indeed narrow down suspects for being the caster of the curse. Just...not now, not yet, busy with other things!

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


Very well then - Zephy is allowed to stay with the Gleams for the duration of Bernhard's 3rd Encounter of the Day, in order to create the most magnificent art of the whole scene of the healing of Saph, or as you are very fittingly putting it: Art - Miraculous Purity! (I like that name!) With the next stop being the Cafe and needing some time to unwind after that most arcane happening here, Bernhard kinda wishes to take it more easy for a while, aka until it will be time for...that trial Ianai was suppossed to set up. "I will need your assitance and presence for that, Zephy, so I'm asking you to return to me in time... *giving her a subtle smile* Though until then, please do enjoy yourself, will you?"

Zephy is also allowed to accompany Saph on awakening Mr. Gleam if desired, play with Saph herself, or generally interact with the Gleams. And that without being under an Invisibility Spell, a huge token of trust! Bernhard's going to simply trust in Zephy behaving herself here, aka not try to sneek away and cause mischief or risk being seen by anone else beside the Gleams, and that she will return to his side once the time for that Trial has eventually come. This also means that Bernhard cannot make use of her Flight Skills to head to Oz, so 'just' Quick Attack combined with Agility be it.

I also kinda enjoy the thought of taking Saph to the Kupo Koffee Kudos at some point, if she agrees and her parents permit! Bernhard's abolutely not used to handle children and frankly does not enjoy doing so, but given it's Saph we're speaking about, he'll make an exception. Also allows keeping a subtly eye on her for spotting still lingering aftereffects of the curse, how neat.

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


Now, at the Cafe - Myra is allowed to be out and enjoy the pampering from the cafe crowd, it's somewhat dear for Bernhard to see her being so...swarmed by fans! She receives an appraising look of permission from him that can be translated as 'Please, do enjoy yourself here'. He'll naturally keep a discreet eye on her regardless however, for she being a Pokemon whose moves and Special he is used to channel via his Gauntlet. Not going to risk anything happening to her, nope!

At the Cafe itself, that...odd Espeon sitting at a table with various other Pokemon and enjoying some drink does not go unnoticed by Bernhard however. It's rare to see a Pokemon with a 'citizen status', and whenever spotting one Bernhard cannot help but to wonder how it has earned that status, being keen to find out more while keeping a safe amount of distance. It must be a Pokemon most special and extraordinaire, truly and utterly so! It sparks a wary desire to learn more, hear about its unique talents and backstory. Not now however, given Bernhard has already business with Oz and Darren at the moment!


Now, for what he'll be doing at the Cafe at some point while or after having interacted with Oz and Darren (I'll respond to Oz in a seperate post)

1. Throw in 1000$ Poke into the Fox Raffle, just because he can. There will be enough opportunities to save up money later! (-1000 $Poke)

2. Scan/scim through the library that is Fox Nook, in particular Bern will search for any information/books on where in Sutalör wild Leafeon or (alternatively) wild Eevee and a Mossy Rock can be found. Bonus points for books speaking about how Leafeon can be useful to Magi and Gauntlet-Users, even if Bernhard's certain it will make a fine addition to his selected pool of partner Pokemon as it is. (- 250$ Poke thanks to our Scimitar Status)

3. Order one Foxyphant Koffee, even if Bernhard is much more of a tea-person. As for what to add to the blend - Petaya Berries in hopes of having an effect on his SPE, as well a whole ton of Pecha Berries and cream for extra-sweetness. Because Bernhard may not look like it, but I imagine him enjoying anything that is sweet in taste. (-125$ Poke thanks to Scimitar Status)

[Mikaruge108]

Spoiler

Since this is a Malefic Monstrum you're seriously thinking of confronting - aka the sorts of Threats that even Seddi, Bernard, and Oz would Struggle against working together against, depending on the kind and individual power level of said MM - I will ask this only once: are you 100% sure you want to do that?

(OOC: Not really, since there is a bit of a dichotomy here, I'd say IC it boils down to: would Darren be brazen enough to potentially throw his life away for strangers and the challenge?)

IC:
As soon as Darren gets the message back from Aaron, he heeds the advice, and hunkers down as long as possible. If things get too dicey for him where he is before the back up can get there, better to run and live to fight another day.

Staying Safe is your final choice? 

Very well.

So Shall It Be.

~~~

*Rolls...*

You elect to not be a hero and wait, tense as the mother and child grow closer and closer to the....[b]creature. 
[/b]
Was what you were doing selfish? Yes.
Was your caution all but dooming innocents to a Unknown Fate? Yes.
Was it something that you'd regret later? That is for you to decide.

Was it for the good of your own Partners, new Friends, and Mentor? 

Yes.

It's as Aaron once taught you - Sometimes, a situation was utterly beyond you, and that getting involved would make things only worse. Sometimes, you got to make hard decisions.

Sometimes...you couldn't save everyone.

Soon, the Ghostly, Fairy menace stops sing and dancing, turning unerringly toward the direction of the family duo. What passed for surprise and then irritation flashed across its face....

Before a truly ghoulish, soul shuddering g r i n  stretched across it, many, many needle like teeth on full display.

With a faint, dainty, and fair too innocent sounding cry of mischief and joy most unwelcome the Monster floats off towards the pair....

....But not before turning towards you and giving you a wink.

My grandest thanks, my highest praise~

Star-Touched Soul

For enjoying my show~

And Helped Set the Stage

For.

My. 

Next.

Play.

Truly bone-chilling laughter echoed throughout the night. 

You didn't think - you ran. Towards the nearest Center, towards where you thin you'll meet your Mentor.

Run.

Run.

Run.

Laughter following you all along the way.

~~~~

By a great stroke of Fortune you run into Aaron - along with at least 3 Whole Squads of Police Officer . He is astride on Big Beaut, but soon he slides off to scoop you up in a hug, checking you all over for anything amiss.

"Darron! Boy! Are you alright?! Did that....Flutter Mane do anything to ya?!"

The police only pause long enough to get the details before rushing off - notably, none of them judge you poorly for what you did. You'd say many of the looked upon you with a certain amount of sympathy - pity too, perhaps, but mostly sympathy.

.....Doing a check on your person, you find something.

A Dusk Ball, containing Dormant Shedinja, holding a singe black-ish pink scale.

Payment dealt, offer sealt

Thank you for the fun

You itty bitty Bug~

Such 'words' resounded as you held the scale, followed the laughter.

That haunting, chilling, wickedly whimsical laughter....

Shednija's Stats: Same as Corebook, Knows all Moves up to the Level that Nincada Evolved (20) at + Hone Claws + Baton Pass + Poltergeist (STR + 4, Fails against targets not Cursed or not Holding an Item); can learn Final Gambit for 45 XP
Specialties: 2 in Brawl, 2 Evade, 1 Alert, 1 Intimidate
Ability - Same as Corebook, but has a Once a Day 'Immune to Fainting/Dying' Prevention if it's HP would be reduced to 0 (retains 1 HP); this Mon is Immune to all non-Super Effective Terrains, Weathers, Field Effects, Hazards, and Status (Exception Sleep, Confusion, and Disable); PDs and PD Moves are also subject to Wonder Guard
Surprise! - None
Fortune - *3
Traits - Whimsically Malefic Touched: + 1 Fortune,  - 5 Max Will (5/5), + 1 Dice on Ghost Attacks (Accuracy and Power) from and against Shednija
        - Deep Sleeper - Easier to put Asleep, and when put to Sleep put Mon into Deep Slumber instead; ignore Pain while Slumbering

(OOC: I'm fine with events as they are)

Darren nicknames the Shedinja "Élan" (OOC: French for "momentum", and the nickname of my shiny Shedinja) and sends it to his PC. Time to get a Focus Sash

He looks a little bit more at the scale before slipping it in a pocket.

"That... Flutter Mane... was something else"
Darren gives the rest of his statement, includimg the direction the family seemed to be going, so that someone more... equipped... could make sure they are safe.

Now that things have calmed down a bit, Darren sends a text to the rest of the group, attached is the image of the special service menu for the Coffee shop.

Just ran into a crazy looking Misdreavus, I think it was called Flutter Mane. Didn't mess with it.