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

[Lord Windos]

(...)

We have our other allies joining us too, so it might be prudent to get a quick summary of what they're capable of so we know what to expect from them.

Well, since you asked and its actually a good idea now that I think about it...

WAR PARTY ALLIES QUICK SUMMARY

Officer Kin
"Protect, Conserve, Solidarity. For us, and for all. That is what we stand for."
Kin brings two officer with him to the War Party, and sent the rest to help out the other trainers maintain order. Dog and Ride Pokemon are predominantly used by this group, and they main focus on working tightly together to form a solid defense and shut down anything they can from foes. Officer Kin brings with him an Arcanine and Overgrown Flareon as his main Mons, giving him quite literal 'Firepower' that is trained to mitigate their weaknesses

The Blade Lineage Faust and Sault
"We found our home, and we shall not let these demons take it from us."
"Though they have no flesh and bone, we shall Claim more than they can ever Yield from us."
This pair of swordsman are quiet but highly Skilled in the way of the Blade and redirecting enemy attention. They do not use Pokemon, but instead their Unique Sword Style they take their group's name from and their unique Blades and Clothing to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Toughest Mons. The specialize in dealilng consistent, fast Critical Attacks, comboing and following up on any Opportunities to attack (Knockdowns, Crits, Flinch, etc), and have brutal Counter Attack that can wipe whole squads of enemies.

The Water Magi
"I'm simply fulfilling a debt and defending what ours. Nothing more, nothing less."
This Magi says very little about their capabilities or overall style, but Bernhard Knows they are a Water Scimitar of some minor to middling renown and power. Enough that they can be expected to police and watch a part of the Docks, but not so strong or influential to 'matter' . Still, he's in them prime element - the beach's abundant supply of Water and the strong malignant energies and Curses to make casting their Spells and Invocations a literal breeze of torment for his enemies.

???
"*Chittering Laughing*"
Unknown, but their is definitely a presence following the Magi. Seems inclined to work from the shadows and be a more supportive, insidious threat to whatever dear hurts their friends?

'Family Friend' Capo 'James'
"Hoo? What to know about lil' ol me? Fine by me! Friends don't keep important deets to themselves, savvy?"
This mafia looking and near ghoulish man professes he's from a group know as the 'Family Friends' , an organization dating back to around the founding of Bayhama that only wishes to 'defend the Rights and Traditions of our people, and Enforce Proper Respect and Order.'  They are a 'Switch-Hitter' type of combatant - the typically favor pinpoint Ranged Attacks with them and their Octillary and Decidueye, but does not hesistant to leap in with brutal, overwhelming Physical Attacks when needed with his trusty 'Blaster Claymore' .

Lapzu, the Shadowy Sentinal
"......I am at your command and always have your back, my lord."
Another swordsman, only this one is a bit more....bestial and FAR fleeter of feet and illusive. They can serve in one of two Roles - that of the faithful Bodyguard Sentinal, protect an individual and/or their Mons by redirecting or intercepting Attack to parry and reposte, or that of the Hunter Sentinal, using their insane speed and frightening ability to find weakpoints to tear enemies apart before they even realize she's there. She has a Pokemon with Healing Wish to revive her Master or herself in a pinch, a Mon that can aid in Stealth, and a Swords Mon of her own as a final, last resort.

BB 'John' and his Goon Squad
"Oy, don't give me those looks. Those shitbags got in my bad Book the moment they decided to tear up the Beach, and its up to me and my Boys to enact Vengence on them all."
Infamous gang member 'John' , one of the leading figures in the Breakneck Boys, is focused on one thing only in all his actions: Advancing his Own's Interest and Punishing all that Wrong his brother. He brings 5 Members with him, each with Two Weak Pokemon but with the knowledge of how to fight dirtier than a bilge rat. He himself has his Garbadour and Drapion, and they specialize in just plain pragmatic beatdowns. He does have a trick, though - the more he and his own are 'Wronged' , the Stronger and more Brutal they become...

??? Priestess
"*Smiles* All in Due Time, Good Souls."
A mysterious and mystical woman that literally shimmered into existence. They do not say much about themselves, only that they've been 'Summoned' at this most 'Auspicious Time' to aid the 'Good Souls' in 'Preserving the Right Time' for Bayhama.  They don't have any direct Combat Applications - instead, they have the power to Manipulate Probability, preventing Moves from going Bad, turning Fails into Successes, and even reversing entire outcomes. The more she uses these powers, though, the more she starts to fade away to 'Whenever' - such is the price paid for overturning Fate and Fortune.


And as a Bonus:

I realize that I didn't give enough distinguishing detail between the groups to make for good strategizing, so here are a few tidbits about each. Think of these as 'bare bone' reports you could gather from what few intelligence officers/specialized Trainers could gather and summarize for everyone.

Group 1 : Both its Leaders have been reporting frequently feuding with each other, often acting opposed as often as they work together in dealing with the Defense. IF pressed, however, they become a ferocious duo that KNOW how to combo their moves to devastating ends. The land they roam is flat but has no worrisome things either - an even match for both sides as it were.

Group 2 (Land Whale) : This one is actively trying to press the defenses and pick off ANYONE it can get their mitts on, knocking them out and using some sort of Curse Magic to Teleport them to their Boss, where upon they're Doomed and a new Cursed Palossand is sent back to them. Looks to constantly increase their numbers and completely crush the spirits of everyone, and they love to Dig through the earth in devastating Ambushes.. Lots of trenches and hidden hazards in the area, slowing them down and maybe you too.

Group 3 (Masked Wolf) : Out of all the groups this one acts the strangest. They seem to be avoiding conflict, preferring to remain hidden and only being spurred into action by other Groups or direct attempts to root them out. Unlike they other they also just kill whoever they Defeat, not bothering to send the bodies back to their Boss; reports even suggest they let Trainers escape when they could pick them off. Their area is consumed by a Small localized Sandstorm, as if to better obscure them and deter other from entering their part of the territory.

Group 4 (Sand-goth) : Complete and utter MADNESS. This group is highly erratic in behavior, doing one thing with absolute fervor and single-mind insanity before promptly abandoning a thing and pivoting to other things to focus that maniac, twisted energy on. Sometimes its REALLY bad, like sending Palossands as suicide Curse Bombers, and other times its rigorous helping out the defenders (and sometimes turning on them afterwards  or joining forces before leaving a while later). The Leader of this group just straight up eats or spares anything it comes across and defeats, growing more twisted and ungodly the more it consumes. Terrain is random as they are, though always sandy in some way.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Items Bernhard will gratefully take: (source post from MetaThread here)
From the War Party:
- 3 Hyper Potions
- 2 Max Potions
- 3 Full Heals
- 2 Revive

From Vernax:
- Utility Umbrella (goes to Nirix)
- 1 Max Potion
- 1 Hyper Potion
- 1 Revive
- 1 Full Restore

[Spiritmon]

@Lord Windos

After hearing their sister's answer including Meza (or not in case you decide to ignore this part) Oz walks towards her other companions: Seddi/@Dragonstrike, Bernard/@PhantomUnderYourDesk and Akumo/@Redstone (in case they didn’t react to her taking control of her body once again). “Hey. I…Sorry, for what Zoeti did. It is a long story but…basically me and Hecate fused by accident. We do not have time for explanations, but I promise I will explain everything later. Right now what you guys must know is: I am in control now of this body, and in control of this power. For how long I don’t know, but this came out on a good time.”

She looks at John and his BBs, and for a second her hair shakes with anger, since she does remember what he did to Juniper and what he would do towards her. He might not hold a grudge against her anymore but Oz sure does. She controls herself however. This is not the time to let emotions take control, especially against that storm of enemies. Any help is welcome at this point.

“All I can say now is I can help with some powers now. I have access to all of Mega Hatterene powers, and I can access my Pokemon moves too. My partner Bethy can Copy a move so she might use it, and by extension, me. So if you have any moves that could be useful for her to copy, now is the time to do it.”

Oz also goes to the PC and since Hecate is fused with her, she is at the moment with an available slot in her party. Dite for sure not gonna participate in the battle, but with her Scimitar power she will be able to use Dite moves with no problem at all.

She does notice however the Priestess looking at her with curiosity. I mean, yeah she is different but she looks…weird, to say the least. So before the battle she decided to have a quick talk with the mysterious woman herself. “Hey. Well…can I help you with something?”

[Redstone]

(the following points are roughly in order, mostly preperation stuffs)

-''Pleased to work with you Officer. We'll need everyone we can get.''

He'll nod back at the wielders, one more connection proven to be worthwile.


He'll take for healing items:

War party:
- 2 Hypers
- 1 Max Potion
- 2 Full Heals
- 1 revive

Vernax:
- 1 Max Potion
- 1 Hyper Potion

- 1 Full Heal

-''I'd love to lend out Cosmic, he'd fit right in and the support is appreciated... don't be too distracted though, we have a job to do!''


-Due to the temporary recruit he'd have to PC Broozer and poor Lani for now. It hurts him as much at hurts her but this really isn't her battle to fight.


-''Nice to have you back Oz.. explanations can always wait, this war cannot. I would suggest to copy a group protection move, we can't afford to get beat up too badly before the main enemy.''


-Gloomtail is given the Sparkling Prism Scale, if he is suspicious tell him it'll partally protect him, Nalu learns Rain Dance for 14 exp

[Spiritmon]

War party:
- 1 Hyper
- 1 Full Heals
- 1 revive

Oz will take 1 Full Heal, 1 Hyper and 1 Revive.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

(I actually DO have a theme in mind for Bern's part of this fight! This one. Best enjoyed with increasing the volume @1:02 [May RiverBoy rest in peace, his music lives on])

Not much more to add here or to your Involvement with Zoeti, though I'll leave room for you to Flashback! to respond with her later if you so wish.

Right now your whole Team is Slotted into the Gauntlet System Sans Nox, who for now you've elected to keep them Free to Summon them as need. As much as it Pains you to THINK of doing so, if you want her/them to use their/her Nuclear Power in anything but Out of Battle contexts you're going to have to let her Fight for you like a Trainer's Mon would do, UGH.

On their/her end the lox seems a bit tense yet EAGER to get into a proper scrap - it's been awhile since she/they have satisfied that particular craving.

Morgana has still not answered by the time you are ready to go - where is she that is keeping her so busy...?

...You just hope she's okay, Strange as it is to think that The Fairy Queen of Unova could be in any real danger.

Source Post:https://pokemonuranium.co/forum/showthre...4#pid84514

Nothing from my end to add to the scene with Zoety and Oz/Hectate - Bern actually went to get some nurses and doctors, but I'm just going to assume that someone of the party picks him up once it's become clear that it's not needed anymore (for now). Or he'll just notice himself/Zephy points out that it's about time to go off to battle indeed.

Let's also...not think or worry TOO much about his secret yet truthful significant other aka Morgana. Bern does indeed just hope she is okay and fine, yet very busy - thinking about now though, she DID say something about 'having ploys in mind for many Magi' last shared teatime and semi-forced him to stay away from the Mageocracy for a week, now did she? Uhm... One step at a time, let's fully and utterly focus on the fight and situation on the beach for now.

Concering Equinox, her being so eager to get going... That's actually quite sweet and reassuring to see. Though Bernhard will indeed - let's not sugar-coat it - hate it having to have her fight like a, ugh, Trainer's 'Mon, that is indeed the most wise, safe and proper thing to do in this unique case, as much he does not enjoy it. However the benefit of this is having hecking Nuclear Power(!!) in his very own hands(!!!) - Lady Luck, Miss Fortune and Father Fate have entrusted Bernhard with a stable Nuclearmon and the power of radiation, and he's 100% set on making the most and best out of it indeed. 


#######


And so, everything done and prepared, it was time to go. Still and despite everything, Bernhard was still quite afraid and anxious about it - but maybe, just maybe, Zephy is RIGHT and it's not just him all alone and by himself in this case. It's hard for him to accept, so very hard indeed, but...


You had your FRIENDS there to help you, SUPPORT US and have our backs.


...These particular words of his most treasured mythic partner ring back in his mind. If there ever was a point to give them a Chance and prove it to be true, it was  N O W.

It felt very ceremonial to march up to the scene among the others - yet it also had a grim and very dark undertone in between. Almost like...walking up to your deathb-


NO. STOP. 
STOP IT  R I G H T  T H E R E.
THAT THOUGHT WILL  N O T  FINISH.


They shall and  W I L L  make it, one way or the other. At what cost, they'll see, but if the cheering crowd was of any indication and of any assurance -

Yes they  W I L L  P R E V A I L  indeed.

No words are nor were needed towards that familiar Magi flowing to their side - just a very grateful look of honor is given to Citrine. 

Neither towards that...presence of a shadowy creature - for Bernhard can very well make out who that must be indeed. This Curse Daemon being on HIS side however, supporting him and having his back - it comes to a suprise, a much appreciated suprise.

'The friends you made along the way having your back' - that's an utterly NEW experience to this high-ranked Sky Scimitar. He's absolutely not used to this, not in the slightest - but he may be damned to hell and back if he won't make THE MOST of this and prove them that the trust they - and the city of Bayhama - have put into him is not misplaced. A hero Bernhard is not, never wanted to be one for his place is in the field of magic and alchemy to be on par with Acrowls one day - Bernhard's very words - but perhaps Zephy is right that it may not be wrong to indulge in it here, given the chance after all. Whether he'll 'rediscover his craving for such adventure' (her words) however - he's not too sure about THAT. Wait and see, perhaps? The deeply rooted wanderlust IS there, but the adventurous aspect...?


The items from Vernonax as well as the Military Officers are gratefully accepted - and that burrowed Utility Umbrella is straight up given to Nirix to hold (aka is now his Held Item). Vernax receives a thoughtful look and a bow of respect from Bern. "Anything given by you is greatly appreciated and will be remembered by dear me - anything that has not been put into use will of course be returned to you." (On the note of the Utility Umbrella, as stated here, we'll see!) A full list of Items taken is here. That, aaaand Bernhard has still two units of the Panacea. These are saved for the most dire situations and his own Pokemon though (for now and preferably)


Now towards burrowing Steelenee the Mawile from Lunn - Bern will ask for that loan of power in the most kind and polite way possible (but NOT in a charming way to earn Morgana's ire) the Mawile's own help to convince her owner is much appreciated. Aaaand Bernhard is also very fine to have art made of him using her powers as well as the fight being recorded, as state here - he was going to ask Zephy for artworks of that scene and fight later on anyway. Lunn having an ariel drone however brings up an idea to Bern: "Please do tell me, Lunn - are you able to scout out the Group consisting of that Masked Wolf and Sand Whale [aka Group No.1] using that drone of yours? The more information I, I mean, WE are having before taking on it, the better."


Furthermore, there's one thing Bern wanted to ask Citrine: "Do tell me - how well do you thrive in Hail weather? How much can you benefit or be unaffected by it if I set it up? You see, I do have the power of casting a protective Aurora Veil on our side - at the cost of making it rain hailstones. Said Veil should stay up once I activate my precious Ninetail's Drought Ability - however, am I right under the assumption that with you belonging to the Water Scimitars, such sunny and dry weather is not much up your alley? The very last thing I desire to do is weakening your spells and power, given you are in your prime element that close to the beach after all... And that's not even speaking about the myrad interactions such weather shenanigangs may bring..."

[Dragonstrike]

Spoiler

(Note: Be sure to include your own Battle Preparation/Rising Tension Music, if you like!)

Eventually, even with a few....complications, everyone gets ready for the Titanic Fight.

Before the .... Oddness concerning Zoeti happened, you briefly meet the hollow gaze of Kusanagi, as you both took in the Message together.

There is no Hesitation as she nod.

"Samurrott."

Let's finish what we started, or die trying.

Iron Leaves....she's not too thrilled with the DANGER you're putting yourself in. While the fate of the Region and the World at large rests on What You Do....such relatively minor Conflicts like this Dameon (*Shudders*) with Disproportionate Risk to Reward should be avoided. Because, as just mentioned, a LOT rides on you two Succeeding in your Missions.

But....she is ever your Loyal and Understand Stead and Verdant Blade. Though she protests your decision, she ultimately will still follow through with it and Help. Though if the going gets TOO Tough....expect her to get 'creative' in how that Help comes about.

Velunza is a bit nervous about facing off against a Ghost, but if you tell him about Soak his usual Slasher Grin is back in place, eager to turn the tables on what would be an Impossible Match-Up.

Rabsca simply bobs in place and begins thinking up MANY different preliminary strats based on what little data is avaliable, and as always is ready to Save Lives.

Goodra gives you a firm look, crossing their arms with an authoritative *Trill* . You're taking them into this Battle THIS time, no ifs ands or buts! Yeah, they're still miffed and upset about being left behind...especially seeing as you got brutalized within an inch of your life.

And last but certainly not least, Ceruledge.

You First Blade.

Your sister is all but blood.

She meets your own gaze...and softly rests a ghostly flame blade on your shoulder. One that does not Burn - a feat of supreme effort and control. 

"Ceruledge."

I'm with you.

So, you team assembled and prepared, you ready to go....

---

Then, before you know it, all of you were Ready.

Ready.....to MARCH

Scene Music: Bleach TYBW - Wandenreich Declaration of War Theme | EPIC VERSION

Redstone leading the party, sending out Ecclessia and GLOOMTAIL as the vanguard.

Seddi with his Blades of Malice and Glory, side by side, always at had.

Bernhard with his immense Magical Might and the Grace of his Partner baring down on all.

And.....Zoeti , a Most Odd but Grand Witch that saunters with supreme confidence, Arcane Power, and her beloved Coven of sisters leading the rear.

Together you marched from the Center towards the Southern Beach, where the Main Conflict was about to be kicked into high gear. Said place just so happens to be the Primary Staging Area  Vernax prepared - perhaps you were drawn there by the Connection you had with the Wandering Soul.

As you marched the crowds parted before you all, like a rod from heaven splitting the very earth in twain. Tourists, Settlers, Natives, Officers, Rangers, and all sorts of people and Pokemon watched you go to your Destined Battle, mumming with worry yet awe....

....But soon, it was not just only your group marching together.

An stern and decorated officer made their way to Akamu's side, cutting through the and flanking you. He gives you a quiet, firm nod.

"Dragon Master. My officers are already on there way. Allow me to assist you directly."

Then, so silently yet smoothly, another person joins their side: a familiar white haired Kimino Girl, alongside what appeared to be.....a kimono-suited man wearing a large bamboo hat that obscures their face. Together they both Wielded Katanas, very much like the one you still had.

The woman simply nodded to you, as if this was simply the proper course of action.

With Seddi a tall, lanky, almost comically skeletal man waltzed over the crowd. He was wearing a maroon pinstrip suit that to your discrening glance seemed incredibly armored, and he had some sort of colossal claymore-heavy assault rifle casually resting on one shoulder. The man, wearing a pair of circular shades, tipped his maroon fedora and gave a tombstone grin.

"Law-man, mind if me and my boy lend a helping hand? No cost! Consider it a Favor, on behalf of the City!"

*Soft Clack*

You feel someone land beside you gently, and when you turn to look you find a most distinguished woman shadowing you.

"Oooh? Your Master let you off the leash, Lopzu? He....I guess this shin-dig will have all the stars of Bayhama by the end of the night."

"...."

The swordswoman does not reply to the suited man, simply falling into your shadow, ready to support. Said man simply shrugs, before looking at you and saying "Women, am I right?" and focusing on the road ahead.

With Bernhard, a familiar Magi flowed to their side, a cool mist and droplots of Water saturating the air around them. They said nothing, for their was nothing that needed to be said between Scimitars with the same cause.

In your two shadows, you could barely make out the presence of...some shadowy creature. Not harming, but helping, though the chittering laughs were still hair-raising....

With Zoeti, a gruff man with slicked back black hair barged his way through the crowd, a gang of goons trailing behind him. All of them sporting a familiar ' BB ' logo on their apparel.

' John '  , fine yet unbuttoned black suit and dress shirt and black dress jeans in all, you recognized, simply walked with you, not glancing your way once. From what Akamu was able to share, they no longer held a Grudge to you. Heck, they may not even recognize you after...this. But something tells you through his intense silence....he and his own crew were not here to cause trouble.

A....priestess simply.....manifested by you side, giving you an enigmatic smile and respectful bow and walked. her bare feet hardly disturbing the ground. As if, despite existing here and now, she was not truly a part of this world.

A War Band had formed up around you, whether it be due to being drawn in by the force on display, the Connections you've made with the City's denizens, or....simply a natural convergence of Power and Destiny.

The crowds around you fell silent, beholding all of you....

.... Before, one and all, they start cheering you on, as you went on to face .... !

THE HATEFUL SANDLOSSUGEIST!

Go go go!

You can do it!

You WILL prevail !!!

===

Eventually, the entire band of heroes(?) arrive at the Primary Staging Area. Already their was a swarm of Elites and Rangers swarming about the place, carting supplies, messages, wounded people and Mons alike.....and even some corpse.

Nobody gets in your way as you head towards a nearby Entrenched Sand Bunker, from which great billowing streams of smoke was coming forth. There you would find Vernax, who was currently running a Supply Depot alongside a Old Sailor Lady, who was clad in white and providing security with her Chatot and Punk Rat.

As state Vernax offers his supplies....as well as what little he can spare to your War Party, as was dictated by the Military Officers that helped made use of the place he dug out:

- A Total of 10 Hyper Potions
- 5 Max Potions
- 10 Full Heals
- 5 Revives
- 1 Max Revive

Divide these however you like among you guys; though anything you DON'T take will be used by your Allies, so if you want to give them a leg up then be sparring with what you take.

The old lady has some news about the Current Situation: Casualties have spike to 57, and the Daemon has only grown larger and more viscous. Those that died to it had spawned into Twisted Palossands thrawled under Its HATEFUL Will, and a couple of Masked Wolves and Land Whales that seemed to have Joined Forces with it, leading the thralls and Catching and delivering anyone they Defeat/Find to The Hateful Sandlossugeist to....convert .

Right now, there are Four Groups that are Guarding/Covering the War Zone between the Primary Staging Area and where the Boss is currently at, though that stretch of ground is shrinking as it gets ever closer, its BOOMING and hidious HATEFUL L A U G H T E R and the screams of the damned and the Din of Battle a constant backdrop...

- Group 1 is compose of 1 Sand Whale and Masked Wolf, with 5 Palossands between them

- Group 2 is composed of 1 Sand Whale with 10 Palossand

- Group 3 is composed of 1 Masked Wolf and 10 Palossand

- Group 4 is composed of 10 Palossand, and two of the Twisted Palossand have Merged into a Sand-goth .

It has been reported that the Palossand are weaker than usual (8 HP, 2 VIT and INS), but have NASTY Curses and Status baked into their attacks. It also seems like taking down Their Leader causes them to go Dormant - as was the case with one group and their now dead Alpha Cofrigigas.

You have (as of now - if you have any ideas feel free to state them!) Three Approaches:

1) Take on some of the Hateful Legions to Clear a Path. Min Two Group have to be taken out before the War Party can safely and quickly get to The Boss. You could also take them ALL out, if you can afford the risk to make way for the ENTIRE coalition to join in on the Boss Raid.

2) Direct Strike. Skip the Groups using your various means of Mobility/Force to go straight to the Boss. This WILL leave the current defenders at risk of getting overwhelmed, and their is always a chance one or more Groups of the Legion will double back to Aid their Boss.

3) Wait. Let the coalition of other Elites, Rangers, and Military bleed themselves first on the Groups, and only wade in once its 'safe' to do so. HIGH Casualties, but low risk to the War Party. Is that what Heroes would REALLY do, though...?

What will your choice be?

The People of Bayahama: Ark Mall (Exploration) - Astral Chain

Seddi shakes his head, disagreeing with Leaves.  This mission isn't just about saving the world for him.  It's about saving people.  Now's not the time for them to argue about it though.  She's helping him (and Bayahama) anyways, and that's enough for now.  They can talk about the nuances of the situation and why this is necessary later.

Seddi will offer Goodra a fist bump.  "Wouldn't dream of leavin' ya behind this time, Goodra.  This may not be what Nemona was thinkin' of, but she was right all the same.  Let's finally prove we have what it takes to make a difference here."

Veluza does get that reminder about Soak.  Seddi doesn't think Soaking the Malefic Wannabe won't come without some caveats though, so he'll need to talk it over with the other defenders.

Nothing more needs to be said with Kusanagi, Ceruledge, and Rabsca.  They know what their roles are.

The time to act is now.

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

Seddi chuckles at the pinstripe's lawman comment.  The irony will never not be funny to him.

Well, that, and the whole thing about 'women' is also somewhat amusing to him, given who he works for and who's by his side right now.  Ceruledge finds it a little less amusing, practically staring daggers at the man in the maroon suit.

"You've got some strong women to thank for sendin' one of Paldea's finest out this way.  That's the real favor here.  And you can bet I'm gonna make sure I'm paid well for this.  Takin' down critters like this one is expensive work."

Seddi, ever the opportunist.

"Even sayin' that, guns; swords; pokemon...doesn't matter what ya use, who ya are, or your reasons for bein' here.  We fight for the same cause today."

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

Before they set out, Seddi will do a little info gathering from the people gathered.  It's important to know what you're up against, and there's some Pokemon names he hasn't heard previously:
- Land Whale
- Masked Wolf

He can guess that at least one of those is likely a Ground type, similar to the Ground/Ghost Palossand and the Hateful Sandlossugeist.  Guessing isn't good enough in this job though.  He wants some more certainty about the types and capabilities of these pokemon if the people of Bayahama are familiar with them already.  He thinks Bernhard's got the right idea of scouting out the potential battleground.  As the saying goes: knowledge is power.

As for the medical supplies offered, Seddi takes none of it.  He's got a fair few strong healing items for emergencies already, and others might need that healing more than he will.

Spoiler

'Family Friend' Capo 'James'
"Hoo? What to know about lil' ol me? Fine by me! Friends don't keep important deets to themselves, savvy?"
This mafia looking and near ghoulish man professes he's from a group know as the 'Family Friends' , an organization dating back to around the founding of Bayhama that only wishes to 'defend the Rights and Traditions of our people, and Enforce Proper Respect and Order.'  They are a 'Switch-Hitter' type of combatant - the typically favor pinpoint Ranged Attacks with them and their Octillary and Decidueye, but does not hesistant to leap in with brutal, overwhelming Physical Attacks when needed with his trusty 'Blaster Claymore' .

Lapzu, the Shadowy Sentinal
"......I am at your command and always have your back, my lord."
Another swordsman, only this one is a bit more....bestial and FAR fleeter of feet and illusive. They can serve in one of two Roles - that of the faithful Bodyguard Sentinal, protect an individual and/or their Mons by redirecting or intercepting Attack to parry and reposte, or that of the Hunter Sentinal, using their insane speed and frightening ability to find weakpoints to tear enemies apart before they even realize she's there. She has a Pokemon with Healing Wish to revive her Master or herself in a pinch, a Mon that can aid in Stealth, and a Swords Mon of her own as a final, last resort.

As his part of the strategizing, he'd consult with the swordswoman and pinstriped man about the feasibility of a targeted assassination on one of the leaders, and backup plans to accompany the action.  "We've got some big guns here, literally and figuratively.  My team's well suited for a direct confrontation, but doesn't really handle large groups well.  We may need some crowd control in the event we go for it and miss the mark.  Maybe we team up with those mages.  Bet they've got some real nasty spells they can conjure to wipe out groups." 

Spoiler

After hearing their sister's answer including Meza (or not in case you decide to ignore this part) Oz walks towards her other companions: Seddi, Bernard and Akumo (in case they didn’t react to her taking control of her body once again). “Hey. I…Sorry, for what Zoeti did. It is a long story but…basically me and Hecate fused by accident. We do not have time for explanations, but I promise I will explain everything later. Right now what you guys must know is: I am in control now of this body, and in control of this power. For how long I don’t know, but this came out on a good time.”

She looks at John and his BBs, and for a second her hair shakes with anger, since she does remember what he did to Juniper and what he would do towards her. He might not hold a grudge against her anymore but Oz sure does. She controls herself however. This is not the time to let emotions take control, especially against that storm of enemies. Any help is welcome at this point.

“All I can say now is I can help with some powers now. I have access to all of Mega Hatterene powers, and I can access my Pokemon moves too. My partner Bethy can Copy a move so she might use it, and by extension, me. So if you have any moves that could be useful for her to copy, now is the time to do it.”

Seddi will give Oz a brief, affirmative nod.  "So that's what happened.  Well, we can try and fix ya up later.  Right now, I think this gives us a rather interestin' advantage.  Play this smart, and we could end this more quickly than we might have otherwise.  Just don't go gettin' yourself killed if you engage in direct combat."

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

Oz was sitting in her mindescape, lamenting her fate. This is not fair. Not fair at all. She wanted to be there. Fighting alongside her companions. She doesn’t care if Zoeti is part of her and Hecate's soul. She is not them. She doesn’t deserve to be fighting there. Oz finally had the courage to fight, and then this happened.

While she was hating this fate, she felt a moment of weakness in Zoeti mind. She grabbed that chance. While Zoeti was weak, she imagined grabbing Zoeti by her hands, and then saying to her. “This is my body Zoeti. Not yours. Get in the seat of my mind.”

“Normally I would say “no hard” feelings, but that would be a lie. This is MY fight. MY companions. MY sisters. You take my and Hecate's bodies. I'm taking them back.”

Oz was surprised by her cold voice, but she was not exactly in the mood to be gentle or kind. She does NOT appreciate her freedom being taken. She pushes Zoeti away, back to the same place she dared to put Oz. As if as an apology, she said to Hecate.
“I'm sorry Hecate. But I will use this power to save us and our sisters. I will fight to the bitter end. I will return us back to normal sister. I promise.”

With that said, she finally returned to her body. She vomited a bit of blood in the ground. She staggered, and was very confused but at last, back to her body. She kneels with one hand, but uses her magic staff to balance her body. She looks at her companions and with a smile (with blood in her lips) she tells them. “Damn. It took a long while, but I got back. Pushed that crazy witch back to her place. Don’t worry people. It's me, Oz.” She looks at her body. “And it seems I was capable of keeping this body. Although my mind it’s still confused.”

Oz stands up, and using the same spell Zoeti did, she summons all of her sisters: Persephone, Fortuna, Bethy, Glinda and Meza. “I'm back , sisters. It's me, Oz. I pushed back Zoeti. Hopefully for a LONG time. I said this once and will say it again: Can you lend me your powers sisters. Including you Meza if you want?”

Action: Bring my sisters and ask them to fight at my side. Before the fusion they were willing to fight at my side. Time to reaffirm that oath and fight with everyone. Meza included if she wants. I still have a few things to say, but for now I will keep this brief. I wait everyone reactions before I do my thing.

Surprise
Confusion
Shock
Distress
H u r t

Those were the feelings - your feelings, no matter how much this Part of You disagreed with that Truth - as you coldly suppressed your greater self's Will and Conscience and supplanted it with 'your own' . It was deeply unpleasant on every level - it felt like you were actively and cruelly betraying yourself in the deepest, most intimate way possible. The magnitude of what you did was Unown, but huge.

However, you couldn't afford to simply...adjust to this New You, no matter how temporariy or extraordinary said miraculous event was. There was too much to do, with FAR too much at stake for more diplomatic ways of 'bridging the gap' between the different parts of You. Or so this Part of You Believes.

Whether or not its the Truth is irrelevant now. 

What done is done, and you must handle the consequences thereof.

The Hecate Part of You was....distant. Weak. You felt that this part of you was far more invested and Willing to BE Zoete, and 'your' efforts had only jostled a mere fragment of your Sister's and Daughter's essence. Still, it was enough for 'her' to Understand what happened, understands 'you, and more than make itself understood.

'Hecate' was not happy. In the slightest. About MANY things. Including what you did to Zoete.

But.

BUT.

....See understands where you're coming from now, and....won't interfere in 'your' efforts. She won't help - beyond trying to keep You alive - but neither will 'she' interfere. Resigned acceptance was the best you were going to get out of 'her' .

Once 'you' .... recovered enough to be salient of the World around you and cope with your injuries, your reassurances.......don't do much to ease the IMMENSE worry your Coven has for you. Glinda was more concerned than ever in Spite of 'your return' , while Persaphone seemed to be very intrigued and amused. Bethy just looked...pensive, staring at 'you' with an indesrcibable expression. Only Fortuna seemed mostly positive about 'your' return, but even they were somewhat put off by everything and the rest of your Sisters reactions.

Assuming you want to know why your Good and Wicked Witch were so focused on you, they launch into a brief but Insightful Explanation that may or may not make you Wish 'you' never asked:

You were not Oz.

Well, yes, 'you' were, but not THE Oz.

Glinda tries her best to describe what is Happening to 'you' right now, but it turned out Persaphone was a better authority on such spiritual matters - unsurprising, given she's been a Ghost Witch for FAR longer than either of YOU. It was, frankly, an hideously complicated subject in both terms of Magic and Spirituality, but your IMMENSE Insight, even in your Confused State, made it trivial to parse it all out. To (hopefully) simplify things and give a frame of reference, here is the gist -

1) Imagine Oz and Hecate as Different, Separate Computers (Bodies), each running their own OS (SOUL) and Programming (Mind)

2) The Accident Fusion is akin to something disassembling and recombing the two separate Computers into one, designing a OS that draws upon the OS of each individual Computer to be 'the sum of and greater than' both in terms of 'running' the New Computer.

3) From there a New Program emerged to act as the 'Executable Interface' - that being Zoete - that was based on a 'recompiling' of the Programming that ran off of Oz's and Hecate's OS

4) The Integrated Oz Programming , instead of 'running harmoniously' on the New Zoete OS and 'within' the Zoete Programming in the background as a 'part of the whole, went Rouge, wanting Primary Control due to a 'fundamental incompatibility' it had with the New OS and Programming.

5) Said Oz Programming Succeeds and effectively Demotes/Banishes the Zoete Programming to the Background, stripping it of its Control and Rightful Place. From there the Oz Programming does its best to Assimilate, Adapt, and recreate 'Itself' and Its Functionality on the New Zoete OS and Hardware.

.....Hence 'you' - Zoete as Oz. 'You' were a recreation of Oz Le Fey's Mind that was currently In Control of Zoete's Body and the Primary One in terms of 'Operations of the SOUL' . Said recreation was roughly 80 - 90% 'faithfully accurate' to what the true, OG and Unfused Oz was like prior to The Incident, based on your own estimates and introspection. Parts of you that differed - the Instincts of this Body, the memories of Zoete, the small part of Hecate brooding in the background, the internal distress and CHAOS you were doing your best to ignore - were minor but major differences that ultimately distinguished 'you' from you.

In all honesty this Matter - though greatly fascinating and potentially an existential nightmare - was semantics. 'You' were pretty much you in all ways that mattered to YOU. 'Oz' was In Control and 'freed' from their 'confinement' , and 'you' were ready to kick ass and take names. Whether or not you wanted to freak out was irrelevant right now - you had a duty to perform, and by your Oaths you WILL prevail!

However you explain your own perspective on 'you' , one thing is abundantly clear: You Sisters are still with you, 100% . Sure, Glinda is more worried than ever, hovering around you more intensely and constantly keeping an eye on your and your Bond for ANY more 'fluctuations' , and hearing Persaphone amused musings on your current State being the equivalent of One Soul in a Spiritomb taking control of the whole probably didn't help with any burgeoning Identity Issues. But still: you had their unconditional and full support for the grueling Fights ahead, and can say with full confidence they would follow your lead. Even if it was to prevent more complication - which, after the Incident and recent events, was more than fair really.

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

She looks at John and his BBs, and for a second her hair shakes with anger, since she does remember what he did to Juniper and what he would do towards her. He might not hold a grudge against her anymore but Oz sure does. She controls herself however. This is not the time to let emotions take control, especially against that storm of enemies. Any help is welcome at this point.

“All I can say now is I can help with some powers now. I have access to all of Mega Hatterene powers, and I can access my Pokemon moves too. My partner Bethy can Copy a move so she might use it, and by extension, me. So if you have any moves that could be useful for her to copy, now is the time to do it.”

Oz also goes to the PC and since Hecate is fused with her, she is at the moment with an available slot in her party. Dite for sure not gonna participate in the battle, but with her Scimitar power she will be able to use Dite moves with no problem at all.

She does notice however the Priestess looking at her with curiosity. I mean, yeah she is different but she looks…weird, to say the least. So before the battle she decided to have a quick talk with the mysterious woman herself. “Hey. Well…can I help you with something?”

None of your newest 'companions' seem inclined to share their technics for you to Copy - perhaps out of Pride, distinterest, or a need to keep all their Aces up their sleeves. 'John' DOES notice your glare, turning to meet your gaze with a steely one of his own.....before giving a single nod and crooked smile. From what you can tell the well dressed thug Acknowledges your Grudge against him and Respects it, but will not make a issue of it NOW. Like you, he understands there is a time and place to 'Get Even' ; perhaps after all is said and done you two will settle the score, as it were.

The Priestess....she was indeed Strange. Stranger than anyone you've meet, save for perhaps the Dread Fae Morgana and your Astral Companions. The way her Traditional Sinnish yet Unovish Miko outfi seemingly floated on her and that Knowing Aura alone made her stick out like a Red Oran. Simply put she was a Out of this World presences....or maybe Time would be a more fitting way to describe her.

Your request earns you a simple, sweet, and soulful smile as she reaches down to pat you on the head. Despite how patronizing it looked it felt anything but: it felt warm, loving, and accepting. Like your grandmother's own affection, and what you once hoped your own mother would feel towards you.

This woman trusted you. Cared about you. She was here for everyone else, but right now especially you. 

This was a True Belief, Pure and Simple.

 "Not yet, my child. Maybe never, if the possibilities of Today never lead to Futures of such need. I'm glad you asked, though, and thank you for it. For now it is I that will be doing the helping, and rest assure that I will not let any foul Fate fall upon thee while I still walk with you all in these course of events."

The Priestess gives you a wink, playful and reassuring in equal measure. Being around her was almost enough to soothe your headache and Confusion, easing them both to the point they were more manageable hinderances than outright pains in your metaphysical rear end.

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

(I actually DO have a theme in mind for Bern's part of this fight! This one. Best enjoyed with increasing the volume @1:02 [May RiverBoy rest in peace, his music lives on])

Not much more to add here or to your Involvement with Zoeti, though I'll leave room for you to Flashback! to respond with her later if you so wish.

Right now your whole Team is Slotted into the Gauntlet System Sans Nox, who for now you've elected to keep them Free to Summon them as need. As much as it Pains you to THINK of doing so, if you want her/them to use their/her Nuclear Power in anything but Out of Battle contexts you're going to have to let her Fight for you like a Trainer's Mon would do, UGH.

On their/her end the lox seems a bit tense yet EAGER to get into a proper scrap - it's been awhile since she/they have satisfied that particular craving.

Morgana has still not answered by the time you are ready to go - where is she that is keeping her so busy...?

...You just hope she's okay, Strange as it is to think that The Fairy Queen of Unova could be in any real danger.

Source Post:https://pokemonuranium.co/forum/showthre...4#pid84514

Nothing from my end to add to the scene with Zoety and Oz/Hectate - Bern actually went to get some nurses and doctors, but I'm just going to assume that someone of the party picks him up once it's become clear that it's not needed anymore (for now). Or he'll just notice himself/Zephy points out that it's about time to go off to battle indeed.

Let's also...not think or worry TOO much about his secret yet truthful significant other aka Morgana. Bern does indeed just hope she is okay and fine, yet very busy - thinking about now though, she DID say something about 'having ploys in mind for many Magi' last shared teatime and semi-forced him to stay away from the Mageocracy for a week, now did she? Uhm... One step at a time, let's fully and utterly focus on the fight and situation on the beach for now.
You can feel the Presence of Zephy weigh on you comfortingly, a soothing balm and forceful Will to banish your own lingering fears and hidden dread. Though Balled and Linked Up , you knew your beloved Partner was right with you in Spirit and Mind. An stupendously rare feat, but for a Mythical Artist and Master Magi such a thing was easy as the breeze before their talents and Bond.

Concering Equinox, her being so eager to get going... That's actually quite sweet and reassuring to see. Though Bernhard will indeed - let's not sugar-coat it - hate it having to have her fight like a, ugh, Trainer's 'Mon, that is indeed the most wise, safe and proper thing to do in this unique case, as much he does not enjoy it. However the benefit of this is having hecking Nuclear Power(!!) in his very own hands(!!!) - Lady Luck, Miss Fortune and Father Fate have entrusted Bernhard with a stable Nuclearmon and the power of radiation, and he's 100% set on making the most and best out of it indeed. 


#######


And so, everything done and prepared, it was time to go. Still and despite everything, Bernhard was still quite afraid and anxious about it - but maybe, just maybe, Zephy is RIGHT and it's not just him all alone and by himself in this case. It's hard for him to accept, so very hard indeed, but...


You had your FRIENDS there to help you, SUPPORT US and have our backs.


...These particular words of his most treasured mythic partner ring back in his mind. If there ever was a point to give them a Chance and prove it to be true, it was  N O W.

It felt very ceremonial to march up to the scene among the others - yet it also had a grim and very dark undertone in between. Almost like...walking up to your deathb-


NO. STOP. 
STOP IT  R I G H T  T H E R E.
THAT THOUGHT WILL  N O T  FINISH.


They shall and  W I L L  make it, one way or the other. At what cost, they'll see, but if the cheering crowd was of any indication and of any assurance -

Yes they  W I L L  P R E V A I L  indeed.

No words are nor were needed towards that familiar Magi flowing to their side - just a very grateful look of honor is given to Citrine. 
Neither towards that...presence of a shadowy creature - for Bernhard can very well make out who that must be indeed. This Curse Daemon being on HIS side however, supporting him and having his back - it comes to a suprise, a much appreciated suprise.

'The friends you made along the way having your back' - that's an utterly NEW experience to this high-ranked Sky Scimitar. He's absolutely not used to this, not in the slightest - but he may be damned to hell and back if he won't make THE MOST of this and prove them that the trust they - and the city of Bayhama - have put into him is not misplaced. A hero Bernhard is not, never wanted to be one for his place is in the field of magic and alchemy to be on par with Acrowls one day - Bernhard's very words - but perhaps Zephy is right that it may not be wrong to indulge in it here, given the chance after all. Whether he'll 'rediscover his craving for such adventure' (her words) however - he's not too sure about THAT. Wait and see, perhaps? The deeply rooted wanderlust IS there, but the adventurous aspect...?


The items from Vernonax as well as the Military Officers are gratefully accepted - and that burrowed Utility Umbrella is straight up given to Nirix to hold (aka is now his Held Item). Vernax receives a thoughtful look and a bow of respect from Bern. "Anything given by you is greatly appreciated and will be remembered by dear me - anything that has not been put into use will of course be returned to you." (On the note of the Utility Umbrella, as stated here, we'll see!) A full list of Items taken is here. That, aaaand Bernhard has still two units of the Panacea. These are saved for the most dire situations and his own Pokemon though (for now and preferably)


Now towards burrowing Steelenee the Mawile from Lunn - Bern will ask for that loan of power in the most kind and polite way possible (but NOT in a charming way to earn Morgana's ire) the Mawile's own help to convince her owner is much appreciated. Aaaand Bernhard is also very fine to have art made of him using her powers as well as the fight being recorded, as state here - he was going to ask Zephy for artworks of that scene and fight later on anyway. Lunn having an ariel drone however brings up an idea to Bern: "Please do tell me, Lunn - are you able to scout out the Group consisting of that Masked Wolf and Sand Whale [aka Group No.1] using that drone of yours? The more information I, I mean, WE are having before taking on it, the better."


Furthermore, there's one thing Bern wanted to ask Citrine: "Do tell me - how well do you thrive in Hail weather? How much can you benefit or be unaffected by it if I set it up? You see, I do have the power of casting a protective Aurora Veil on our side - at the cost of making it rain hailstones. Said Veil should stay up once I activate my precious Ninetail's Drought Ability - however, am I right under the assumption that with you belonging to the Water Scimitars, such sunny and dry weather is not much up your alley? The very last thing I desire to do is weakening your spells and power, given you are in your prime element that close to the beach after all... And that's not even speaking about the myrad interactions such weather shenanigangs may bring..."

Oz' 'condition' draws some Interest and worry from Zephy, and with enough time and clues you could probably piece together what Exactly is Up with the poor and mysterious Zoeti, but with a looming crisis ahead you push delving into such a tantalizing mystery into the 'Worry about it later if I'm still alive' bin. A bin that hasn't been used in some time, but one you made over the course of a rather eventful life.

Morgana, despite her insane levels of power (Enough to make even Acrowls and Terra wary), was not invincible. Something could take her down or greatly inconvenience her, if said thing was sufficiently insanely strong or clever in their own right and a fervent deathwish like no other. Still, you would know if something THAT Catastrophically Grave happened to your Lady - your Bond with her was Strong, Strange and Twisted as it could be, and would Alert you if something seriously gone amiss with her. Since you didn't get such an Alert, you can at least assume she's alive and relatively well. Small comforts, but you'll take every bit you can get.

Your chimera draconeeve seemed perplexed by your reluctance to let them/her Fight, for was the Thrill and Necessity for Conflict not a Natural and Right thing? Even a lab rat like them/her understand that Instinct well and True. Regardless, they don't let her/their confusion or your own hang-ups diminish their/her own eager anticipation. She/they were about to face off against something akin to her/them - A Monster like no other - and was jittering in excitement at the possibility of being able to truly let loose .

---

From the way Citrine seemed to tense then ease at your Attention then silent Approval, the middling Water Magi was not entirely certain they would be welcome to join. Magnanimity was not always a virtue practiced by high ranking Magi or Scimitar towards those that offered offense or insult - especially among the Dark and Cursed aligned Water Scimitars - but thankfully for him you were a most laid back sort compared to the vast majority of their society.

He could also be worried about Morgana dropping by to make known any grievance she has with his 'treatment' of you - though she often left you to deal with the consequences of your own station and dealings with other Scimitars it was also a open secret that any serious offense that didn't have a damn good reason drew her Attention and, if she feels it necessary or a whim strikes her, Involvement. The wonders of having what many considered a exponentially worse Beliaddon in Human and Fae flesh, your own considerable Might, and a most easily Annoyed and Vengeful Mythic (oh the PRANKS she's capable of) on your side has kept you free of a lot of the drama and negativity associated with being a high ranking politician you choose not to indulge in, suffice (and thank heavens) to say.

True friendship is a rare thing with you, yes. Your relationships with Zephy, Acrowls, Terra, The Scholar, and Morgana transcend such a thing, and you really didn't have the time or inclination to form any connection with other Scimitars instead of focusing on your own Path. It was a horribly lonely existence, truth be told, but you weathered it with solemn, studious ease. Your own Nature and....history insulated you from the worst of being antisocial, and your everpresent companionship with Zephy and your own Mons did its job to keep you grounded and 'cared' for.

Heroism is not as rare of a thing as you might prefer to think for yourself - your long life and prior adventures to becoming a Scimitar had many a grand event or momentous quest or happenstance that lead to you acting in a most dashing manner. Their were even a few stories about some of your more notable exploits in regions afar, much to your own bafflement and mortification and your mousy artist's unending thrill and giggles. Still, it was something you never went out of your way to pursue before your life as a Scimitar and avoided thinking about after.

Yet here you were, with Friends in Seddi the Justified Cowboy, Oz the Healer Witch, and Akamu the Misty Acolyte, off to save Bayhama from a Demon worse than anything you've dealt with in years. It was a most....unnerving thing to do. To put yourself out their so Willingly, to trust people you've barely known for a week with your life and safety. 

You did. You did, and that what is so very wonderful, Bernhard, the Master of Alchemy. 

----

Lunn is still....cautious around you, despite their approval of lending you her Mawile, and it shows by her hesitance in answering your question. Though you are surprisingly approachable and polite for a Scimitar, the shadows of your legacy are long and deep indeed. Trust would not be given easily to you by the Hoen Coordinator.

However, since Seddi is going to be doing a bit of poking around for Intel on these creatures, I could see him joining in and his own brand of affable grit able to convince them to Attempt a Scouting of one Group. Choose one of the Four Groups of the Legions of HATRED, and I'll Roll to see if the Drone is successful and how much Info it's able to gather.

Your more reclusive contemporary looks pensive as you raise the question on Weather Affnities, mulling it over with a good deal of wizardly thought.

"....Not well, but I could tolerate it for a time. Mixing Hail with Drought, though....the resulting slush would be more suitable for my own Magicks, if still imperfect. This location and the sheer density of Curse Energy here is more than enough 'material' for me to work with in spite of any Weather, however. I thank you for letting me know in advance - in turn, I shall tell you that nothing in my own array of Spells will have such a drastic impact on the environment. Well, asides from the 'natural' consequences of wide-scale bombarbment of spellwork and Summoning, but those are more than manageable for Scimitar of our calibur and the quality of Trainer we're working with."

If you're curious you can try to get more Information about what Citrine is capable of, but such inquiries are often considered rude or taboo among non-closely affiliated Magi. Sharing the 'secrets' of their Magicks and Spells is a fairly huge thing, since such Knowledge can easily be abused against them in myriad ways....