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

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

...That shadowy giggling creature aka the Curse Daemon aka Ralice not reponding was to be expected. Bernhard doesn't loose too much thought about that, and just hopes and prays(!) that the creature will be able to support him sufficiently in their own way. (Same with Equinox. Her sneezing and shaking it off sounds super-cute [to me, not to Bern]. Let's just, uhm hope and pray double so that their/her idea of what is 'Smart Tactics' aligns with our own vision. Oh dear... Bernhard really DOES like that particular unique magical companion of his, but there's lot of room still to work on them/her being a loyal partner and actually listen to him.)

Oh, and speaking about it - yeah, Bernhard himself feels very much like he's debasing himself by letting her/them fight like a Trainer's Mon. He actually hates it with every fiber of his fine robe and body! Still there was no way around it, not in this particular situation and case. Perhaps in the future he'll find or make ways to shield his Gauntlet from radiation or similar - but not so now. Dire situations require dire means, or so. Or, as Citrine VERY WELL well put it, 'one must tread dark paths to achieve their own mastery and goals'. With a just as heavy and big sigh Bernhard cannot help but to agree to that. "How right you are indeed. How very very right you are..."

...Rumors about his partners eccentrics rubbing off on him though? Uh... That also goes into the 'Worry about it later if I am still alive' bin.

Good good, if the Rain Akumu sets up WON'T spill over to our Group, then I think I've got a decent draft of what I'm planning to do attackwise. Many thanks for the clarification! It's gratefully noted down.



Now, onwards to the Scouting Action:

Group #1 - Drone is BADLY Damage, and is no longer able to be used for Scouting for the remainder of the Encounter. The Group is now on High Alert, and will be much harder to sneak up upon without some VERY good Skills or tricks. On the other hand you learnt they had Ranged Options at their disposal, can 100% confirm that the lands the Group are in are completel Free of Hazards or other nonsense, and that they were (before the Drone was discovered) in the middle of a HUGE Brawl judging by the clouds of sand and what scant amoung of in-Fighting the drone could record.

No clear pictures of what you were dealing with, however: between the damage sustained by the drone, the dust, and duress said video taking was done getting anything but indistinct blobs of Mons was impossible. However, one of them was somewhat clear enough to tell two things - it was BIG, and it was Bloodied.

...Even if it did not work out as intended, Bernhard does still feel like he learned a good chunk of information. At the cost of alerting these creatures though, hmm.

In either way, apologies towards Lunn are in order! With a deep bow of Bernhard and everything, and naturally he'll make up for the damage of the drone in some way (her choice in what way)

One of the creatures being BLOODIED however - THAT catches my interest and eye. If it turns out to indeed be one of the two leaders of the Group (aka the Land Whale OR the Masked Wolf), that can be used as a advantage if they're already damaged and weakened. Aka take out that creature fast and swiftly, then focus on the other.

(...)Seddi will shift his gaze to Mr. Pinstripe and the two mages.

"Whatcha think?  Able to make a big enough ruckus that Loozu and I could slip in unnoticed?  I could have Goodra summon some rain to maybe obscure our approach that little bit more and power up any Water type techniques y'all got."

Bernhard, just like Lopzu, would be against setting up rain. "As much of a smart idea it is to potentially power up our side, dear me feels it would and could potentially cause more harm than good. Same with setting up Hail by Muse or triggering Drought by my Ninetails - no, if possible I'd like to save manipulations of the weather and terrain for the Big Boss once we have reached them. Instead, I do wish to focus on taking the targets out as FAST and SWIFTLY as only possible for us."




Seddi's words of slipping in unnoticed get an approving nod from Bern, he does like that idea. "Wise thinking. You mean, you do wish to cause a distraction so that you and Lopzo can take out one of the Group's leaders quickly, do I understand that correctly? Please correct me if I am wrong."

There's a looong break before Bernhard speaks up again, as he gives the idea a good thought. "...There are INDEED ways for me to cause such a distraction. Allow me to elaborate:"


1. The most obvious, guaranteed to work but also VERY risky way would be making use of Zephy's NoticeMe!-plotdevice. If Zephy herself agrees to put herself to that risk in the first place, that is (@Lord Windos, needs your input). The plan would be the following: Prepare Zephy with a Safeguard and a cast Protect, then have her use NoticeMe! as an actual move/attack (not via Evokation) in the opposite direction you and Lopzu enter. That will draw in ALL THE ATTENTION, ( aka this move/plotdeivce functions as a 1-round-long AoE Follow Me-Effect, at the cost of granting foes +2 Accuracy and +1 Damage against Zephy.) Bernhard will stay close to Zephy, to recall her into her Premier Ball immediately when that effect triggers, leaving the foes befuddled of what happened.

2. Also very possible [and the option I'd prefer], is making use of that Flash Powder as a magical crafting ingredient Zephy brought along from her Night's Out at Afterlife (I haven't gotten to make these into actual Flash Bombs just yet, too busy Bernhard was!). It will generate a Flash-like effect for the duration of the Encounter, invisible Zephy would very well trigger that effect at the opposite direction Seddi and Lopzu will go in. Alternatively, and much muccchhh more risky, Bernhard would likewise cast a Safeguard and Protect over himself could trigger that effect himself.

3. Maybe possible, yet unsure whether it would work in the first place, make use of Equinox's Wonderous and Alluring nature: 
-- Allure*: +2 (6)(6) on all Allure-based rolls, added after dice are substracted. +3 (6)(6) is said roll involved seduction or mating. --
Have her go into the scene with the intention of seduction and mating indeed, IF she/they is fine and willing to give that a try. Both those Group's leaders are Monsters just like this chimeraeevee is - so, perhaps that can be used of advantage here? Likewise Bernhard will stay close, to intercept and recall her/them into their Ball should things become dangerous for Equinox (he would this time not intercept like he did at the actual Foxy Event however, go wild and go nsfw if these other creatures are willing)

Prayers will do you little good if this....Ralice is of similar 'standing' to the likes of the HATEFUL Sandlossugeist, but considering....she(?) hasn't yet started anything then whatever lurking in you and Citrine's shadows was being patient. Your lox, on the other hand, was a much more predictable creature - though judging by their past attitude that doesn't mean it'll be easy either.

You can feel the mental eyeroll and 'Ugh' you were getting from Zephy at how prissy you were about resuming some old habits of yours. After all you weren't always a Scimitar - though how exactly you used what Pokemon you had outside of Zephy (and before you meet her) is....something you perhaps have good reason to not think about. Leaving that part of your life behind you was one of big reasons you accepted becoming a Scimitar...

---

Lunn seems somewhat surprised about your offer, but with a bit more persuasion you were able to get her to tentatively accept $2000 Poke for future repairs of the Drone.

More and more you were proving that at least you were not like the treacherous 'dark wizards' Cheshire and its stanchest allies made your community out to be.

---

*{Later on, with just the War Band}*

One thing to note: upon fully joining in the discussion 'James' gives you a deep bow, to the point he almost went entirely horizontal!

"Master Bernhard! My deepest respects and gratitude for joining us! We're honored by a man of your immense Standing deigning to support us lessers , and from the bottom of my heart I thank you for your supreme character and benevolence in helping not only us but the entire city. While my Boss said to lend a Helping Hand to the Law-man I think he'd be entirely understanding if you wish to acquire my services for your own grand purposes here, Master Bernhard. *Shrugs at Seddi* No hard feelings if that happens, right? Tis only right and correct to follow the greatest superior, I'm sure we can agree at least a little."

In terms of actual Authority Seddi actually has MORE 'hard power' and permissions in regards to being a certified 'Elite agent' of multiple government with the explicit and implicit ability to basically be Cop, Judge, Jury, and Executioner when it comes to The Law for Settlers and represent Paldea's Interests. Hell, the cowboy could actually arrest and process you, if he wanted to horrify the Settlers, anger the Mageocracy, and make enemies out of them both if he didn't have a DAMN good reason.

However, Bernhard (you) being a Head of State for Sutalor's closest ally , their Master Scimitar Status, and VERY close relations with the Settlers as a whole and the top dogs of the Mageocracy itself basically gives you so much 'soft power' , privileges, and just good reputation that you could practically get away with murder and taking the law into your own hands if you spin things the right way. Couple that with the recent publicity stunt you did and you have become a celebrity and champion of the people in the eyes of most citizens here that can do little wrong!

All that is to say, the Family Friends Rank Bernhard higher than Seddi in their own scheme of things, and ergo 'James' will prioritize your commands over Seddi's and not DARE to object to any decisions you make. So that's 3 votes against Weather being used against Group #1 , and therefore the beach will remain as dry as it can be when you begin your assault on those fiends !

Moving on to your suggestions...

None of the newcomers have any objections to Option 1, but Option 2 gets a shake of the head from that wild looking woman lurking in Seddi's shadows, their expression (what little you can see of it) stoic and curt.

"No. The lingering light and brightness from any Flash will drive out the darkness and shadows, ruining my primary means of acting covertly and seriously hinder my ability to conceal myself and my Lord regardless if we attempt Stealth or not."

Maroon guy doesn't look too happy about the lady's objections, but the fact they don't have anything to counter it speaks volumes. Citrine also expresses that Flashing the environment would make any Dark or Cursed based magicks on his part more difficult to do, but also posits it may serve to weaken said forces for the foes as well and prove even More Effective on the one strongly Curse Aligned.

Your suggestion to try pimp out your Umbrelong and have them/her go FULL BARD on the Leaders gets a plain stunned EVERYTHING from the Water Scimitar (you can practically SEE their jaw dropping), chocked laughter from 'James' as he desperately tries to hold it in with one hand, while Lopzu looks taken aback (the most emotion anyone has gotten out of her so far!). 

....It would be at that point Nox would make themselves/herself known, halting their curious exploration of the Bunker and padding up to and in front of her Trainer. Alternatively she's forcefully Summon herself/themselves from their Ball shortly after explaining Operation Love is War. She/they let out a inquisitive *Trrrrmmmzzz?* as they looked up at you, a bit perplexed but intrigued by the Idea, before she smoothly panned her/their head over to look at everyone else here.

 She/they cocked their/her head, before she rose up and smiled, letting out a rumbling *MMmmvvvvvvv* that could be felt by everyone and their natural glow and scent ever so slightly changing to something more.....intimate.

Equinox's Bewitching Charm
VIT (*4) + Contest (*2) + **Allure [ + 2 (6)(6) ]
(5)(1)(4)(6)(5)(6) + (*6)(*6) (*6)(*6) Hubba hubba ~ 

Will Resistances: 

Seddi: (4)(4)(1) (5)(5)(6) (2)(4)(4) + 2 (Iron Leave's Support) = 9 Successes!
'James' : (1)(2)(4)(5)(5) (6)(3)(6)(2)(4) 6 Successes!
Citrine: (5)(4)(1)(2)(4) (1)(6)(1)(6)(1) 4 Successes
Lopzu: (*6)(*5)(2)(3)(3) (2)(1)(6)(3)(1) - 2 (Bestial Nature) Hippity hoppity!

Seddi (@Dragonstrike) , with just a bit of help from his Verdant Blade, is able to rebuff the primal seductive thrill that emanated from the vulpizard completely. 'James' also seems to fair well against it, though judging by them tugging at their collar and the beads of sweat he was just a little bothered by it.

Citrine, on the other hand, began to rapidly stutter, figit, and twitch in place, transfixed by Nox's display as they exerted every ounce of Water Scimitar discipline to NOT do anything.....rash or embarrass themselves.

Lopzu, though?

She took a full step back, her eyes widened in complete shock.....before they lit up with feral zeal  .

Then -

*POUNCE !*

She embraced Nox in a blur of motion , jerked her mask down and - !

Music: 10. Pushing Buddies (DELTARUNE Chapter 3+4 Soundtrack) - Toby Fox

*S M O O C H ! *

Began to furiously and passionately make out with Equinox, who, while initially startled by this, was all too eager to reciprocate , jamming down their long sticky tongue down the woman's throat and making it bulge -

Yeah I'm gonna to cut descriptions off here. I think you get the idea.

The twitchy Magi stiffened at the sudden show....before they fell backwards onto the ground with a *THWUMP* , struck witless by the, uh, display of affection. Mr. Pinstripes let out a long, low, wolf-whistle and slowly shook his head in awe, his attention not once slipping from the sudden pair.

Iron Leaves was just perplexed and baffled by this all, judging from what Seddi could feel from their Bond with the mechanical wonder horse. Zephy is howling with laughter through her Bond with you. The shadows lurking around Bern/Citrine seemed to pause, a feeling of FASCINATION and then 'Oh MY!/Ew !' pulsing out briefly but sharply.

Serious conversation: Derailed by the Radioactive Bardic Chimera Charisma.

Damn it Bern and Nox !

Curious thing to note about, uh, THAT - the CURSED and oppressive feeling that was blanketing your part of the Bunker (which is out of sight/sound of everyone else, thank god) was BLASTED away the moment Lopzu and Nox had their, ah, own moment. The Power of Amorousness seems to be a Counter to the Curse Energy? Hooray???

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

He wasn't always a Scimitar, this is very true - though Bernhard prefers to leave his past behind himself and not resume old habits unless there is absolutely no way around it (like exposing his trusted Gauntlet, the cables and everything surgically connected to the veins of his hand, to nuclear powers? Biiiig and massive 'Nope!') The only thing Bernhard would and does want back that is part of his past is his trusted Minun-partner, Sirocc.


-2k$Poke, given to Lunn without flinching or batting an eye. Having requested that scouting in the first place, Bern feels like it's literally his fault her drone broke down, and he's a man that stays true to his word. "Please accept this as my way to make up to you for the damage done", he'd tell her. He may not be a dark wizard yet. Not yet he has mastered that part of magicks.



Onwards to the War Party Discussion!~


'James' bowing down that deeply, calling him 'Master Bernhard', being honored with his help and supreme character ('James'' words) and basically everything about that man treating Bern does heavily trigger his trademark 'You flatter me so~'-senses; and with a wave of his hand Bernhard thanks and gestures that guy to rise. There's a small pleased smile on the stoic Mage's face as he does so. "Well, I am grateful for your words. How could I...not lend my aid and might in this dire situation... A 'hero' I am not, but that should not hinder the city to put trust in me, now should it~"

About 'James' prioritizing my commands over Seddi's now: That gets a headshake from Bernhard. "No. Please don't. Let us...work together on taking things down. *to the cowboy directly* Your words matter JUST AS MUCH as mine. The dire situation does all but require it. We shall...make it as...*shudders and cringes visibly*...a team, I take."

Bernhard does not mention it (way too humble he is!), but him helping out does not come free. Expect him to wanting to be compensated and rewarded accordingly.

Furthermore: Anger the Mageocracy or make enemies out that part, and you are in for BIG trouble with Bernhard, regardless how lawful one may be.


No flashing of the environment then, but Lopzu's and Citrine's input ergarding that plan are noted. "So creating a lightbased effect DOES weaken curses and dark powers... Good to know indeed."

Umbrelong would likely still be out of their Ball due to showing her + explaining himself to our assigned Water Magi. No reaction from Bernhard over explaining his plan of having go down THAT particular part of his/this strategy for Distraction™, but he feels a need to smack 'James' for holding back laughter (not that Bern indulges in that though, all that guy gets is a STERN look). "Dire situation require drastic means and ways, now does it not? And to achieve one's goals and desires, one at times must walk a dark path, as much as one may not want to. Your very own words, my dear Citrine. Words that I... *facepalms*..cannot help but to completely agree, as much as a FOOL OUT OF MYSELF I risk making..." Yeah, uh, Bernhard does not enjoy this plan of having dear Equinox and her amorous nature serve as desired distraction, BUT(!!) it is favoured over putting Zephy herself at risk via NoticeMe. Oh dear, he can already FEEL the tall tales and news flashing up.

Perhaps it is worth noting that Bernhard HIMSELF appears immune towards Equinox being all charming and alluring. He will shake off any curiosity about why however with a sliiight blush.

Aaaand that blush turns into a full-fledged emebarassed and coy one over the scene Bernhard accidently(?) triggered and caused! Oh dear, oh boi, oh hell.... Uh, let's ignore Nox and the swordswoman make out; focus on getting our fellow Magi, who's been unfortunately struck witless, back up with Evocations of Aromatherapy, Helping Hand, and Zephy's icy power. Basically do everything we can to get him up and function like a normal person again. If anything however, THAT was proof enough that Equin's unique powers can be of great use in this case, even if she was ACTUALLY asked to indulge in her violent nature here. Double and triple so given Power of Amorousness seems to be a Counter to the Curse Energy.


We'll explain the plan towards everyone once the situation has gotten back under control (or forced to be under control)

- Have Oz-Hectate set up a Lucky Chant for our field to  empower the rate of success (Bern would politely ask her to do so, with great thanks to @Spiritmon)
- Cast a Safeguard via Evocation over Equinox to protect her from Statuses and Curses
- Then, Equinox is asked to go and play Horny Bard(mon) towards the chosen Group 1, preferably towards the leader of the group who is NOT bloodied: As in, go in there with the intention of seduction/mating, adding +3 (6)(6) on that roll.
- If things go well, that should be enough of a distraction for Seddi(@Dragonstrike) and Lopzu to go in unnoticed and STRIKE DOWN anything that is not focused on my Umbrelong. (please, for heaven's sake, make this work without becoming too intense or lemony... [fade to black if needed])
- If it does not go well, have Equinox book it with Cyan Surge and a cast Agility and Quick Attack from Bernhard; or recall her into her Ball immediately (or both if needed). Bernhard is willing to go in there and put himself at risk of getting Equinox back, hoping that  1. this will not become necessary, and 2. the others will help saving/getting him out if needed.
- If the fight breaks out, about time to roll Initatives and chip in via Evocation Spells. Equinox shall remain out and fight as well, like a (eeewwww) Trainer's Mon.

- That should be it. Now awaiting further input and perhaps greenlight from Seddi (unless you have a much better idea, please share!), or any other clarification GM-wise before this plan can be PUT INTO ACTION (I'm like so severely scared...both over how this will go AND the consequences of going down that route)

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

He wasn't always a Scimitar, this is very true - though Bernhard prefers to leave his past behind himself and not resume old habits unless there is absolutely no way around it (like exposing his trusted Gauntlet, the cables and everything surgically connected to the veins of his hand, to nuclear powers? Biiiig and massive 'Nope!') The only thing Bernhard would and does want back that is part of his past is his trusted Minun-partner, Sirocc.


-2k$Poke, given to Lunn without flinching or batting an eye. Having requested that scouting in the first place, Bern feels like it's literally his fault her drone broke down, and he's a man that stays true to his word. "Please accept this as my way to make up to you for the damage done", he'd tell her. He may not be a dark wizard yet. Not yet he has mastered that part of magicks.


Onwards to the War Party Discussion!~


'James' bowing down that deeply, calling him 'Master Bernhard', being honored with his help and supreme character ('James'' words) and basically everything about that man treating Bern does heavily trigger his trademark 'You flatter me so~'-senses; and with a wave of his hand Bernhard thanks and gestures that guy to rise. There's a small pleased smile on the stoic Mage's face as he does so. "Well, I am grateful for your words. How could I...not lend my aid and might in this dire situation... A 'hero' I am not, but that should not hinder the city to put trust in me, now should it~"

About 'James' prioritizing my commands over Seddi's now: That gets a headshake from Bernhard. "No. Please don't. Let us...work together on taking things down. *to the cowboy directly* Your words matter JUST AS MUCH as mine. The dire situation does all but require it. We shall...make it as...*shudders and cringes visibly*...a team, I take."
Bernhard does not mention it (way too humble he is!), but him helping out does not come free. Expect him to wanting to be compensated and rewarded accordingly.

Furthermore: Anger the Mageocracy or make enemies out that part, and you are in for BIG trouble with Bernhard, regardless how lawful one may be.


No flashing of the environment then, but Lopzu's and Citrine's input ergarding that plan are noted. "So creating a lightbased effect DOES weaken curses and dark powers... Good to know indeed."

Umbrelong would likely still be out of their Ball due to showing her + explaining himself to our assigned Water Magi. No reaction from Bernhard over explaining his plan of having go down THAT particular part of his/this strategy for Distraction™, but he feels a need to smack 'James' for holding back laughter (not that Bern indulges in that though, all that guy gets is a STERN look). "Dire situation require drastic means and ways, now does it not? And to achieve one's goals and desires, one at times must walk a dark path, as much as one may not want to. Your very own words, my dear Citrine. Words that I... *facepalms*..cannot help but to completely agree, as much as a FOOL OUT OF MYSELF I risk making..." Yeah, uh, Bernhard does not enjoy this plan of having dear Equinox and her amorous nature serve as desired distraction, BUT(!!) it is favoured over putting Zephy herself at risk via NoticeMe. Oh dear, he can already FEEL the tall tales and news flashing up.

Perhaps it is worth noting that Bernhard HIMSELF appears immune towards Equinox being all charming and alluring. He will shake off any curiosity about why however with a sliiight blush.

Aaaand that blush turns into a full-fledged emebarassed and coy one over the scene Bernhard accidently(?) triggered and caused! Oh dear, oh boi, oh hell.... Uh, let's ignore Nox and the swordswoman make out; focus on getting our fellow Magi, who's been unfortunately struck witless, back up with Evocations of Aromatherapy, Helping Hand, and Zephy's icy power. Basically do everything we can to get him up and function like a normal person again. If anything however, THAT was proof enough that Equin's unique powers can be of great use in this case, even if she was ACTUALLY asked to indulge in her violent nature here. Double and triple so given Power of Amorousness seems to be a Counter to the Curse Energy.


We'll explain the plan towards everyone once the situation has gotten back under control (or forced to be under control)

- Have Oz-Hectate set up a Lucky Chant for our field to  empower the rate of success (Bern would politely ask her to do so, with great thanks to @Spiritmon)
- Cast a Safeguard via Evocation over Equinox to protect her from Statuses and Curses
- Then, Equinox is asked to go and play Horny Bard(mon) towards the chosen Group 1, preferably towards the leader of the group who is NOT bloodied: As in, go in there with the intention of seduction/mating, adding +3 (6)(6) on that roll.
- If things go well, that should be enough of a distraction for Seddi(@Dragonstrike) and Lopzu to go in unnoticed and STRIKE DOWN anything that is not focused on my Umbrelong. (please, for heaven's sake, make this work without becoming too intense or lemony... [fade to black if needed])
- If it does not go well, have Equinox book it with Cyan Surge and a cast Agility and Quick Attack from Bernhard; or recall her into her Ball immediately (or both if needed). Bernhard is willing to go in there and put himself at risk of getting Equinox back, hoping that  1. this will not become necessary, and 2. the others will help saving/getting him out if needed.
- If the fight breaks out, about time to roll Initatives and chip in via Evocation Spells. Equinox shall remain out and fight as well, like a (eeewwww) Trainer's Mon.

- That should be it. Now awaiting further input and perhaps greenlight from Seddi (unless you have a much better idea, please share!), or any other clarification GM-wise before this plan can be PUT INTO ACTION (I'm like so severely scared...both over how this will go AND the consequences of going down that route)

Leaving the past behind is all well and good, but for a person like yourself...

The Coordinator at this point has warmed up to you enough to no longer treat you like a jealous rival ready to steal all her Ribbons, smiling slightly and accepting the compensation for services/damages rendered. Thinking on it briefly, in many ways the Performances and elaborate efforts that go into Contests are akin to Spellwork. Combining different Moves, Powers, and Effects with stunning Skill and technique to create beautiful (and often powerful) Combos and Feats is almost like creating Invocations and other Spells/Rituals - the difference is the very Human element and the passion behind it less for impressing others than what its Purpose is for a Magi.

---

Your words get a respectful nod and tilt of his fedora, the skeletal man pleased with what he's hearing. 

"Now that's the kind of attitude a Master such of yourself deserves to have. Those with Great Standing and Power have the Right to do what they want, but it takes class and good standards to make it all worth a damn, if you can pardon my language."

The admonishment gets them to frown and duck their head, chastised. "Yes sir, Master Bernhard."

'James' was too caught up in his mirth to notice your glare, and your justifications didn't diminish the stares you got from Lopzu or Citrine despite the somewhat sound logic behind Options Love is War. Not that such matters, as your lovely chimerevee's , ah, demonstration is sufficiently distracting and demonstrative enough to make the Option less 'hare-brained horniness' and more 'Holy shit, this might actually WORK....' for 'James' and (later, once you get them up) Citrine.

The wild-looking and now acting swordswoman, however, is....too involved in the moment to really process anything but continuing the passionate exchange she started with Nox....and judging by how she was tugging at her ragged robes and beginning to feel up you lox - who was very much enjoying this turn of events - it was going to escalate to Wilder Things REALLY quickly.

You're getting a strong mental image of Zephy eating some Berry-flavored popcorn and lewdly giggling as she watching the premium entertainment that spontaneously happened and can't help but slightly sake your head and *Sigh* as you get up the Water Scimitar and rouse him back to full awareness. Doesn't take much more a pat on the back and shaking him a little bit, though some Aromatherapy would help calm him and 'James' down from getting too excited like the wild pair.

Citrine is absolutely mortified about what is going on and his own shameful display and lack of control once their head is screwed back on tight again, placing it in their hands as the slowly shook it and muttered something about 'stranger and more twisted than what comes from the deep dark depths...'  as he listened to you and tried their best to ignore that...that....vexing temptress ! . Mr. Pinstripes still is intensely watching Lopzu X Nox Action, though he pays enough attention to you to glance your way and nod along every now and then.

Suffice to say, both men are rather affected and 'impressed' by your TOTALLY planned 'showcasing' of your Mutant Chimera's absurd Alluring charm, while Lopzy is about to get freaky with said Mutant if you (and Seddi) just plan to continue ignoring the scene the two were making (the other two are in no 'condition' to stop it themselves). In any case, 'James' and Citrine do not have any objections to you going with Option Love is War to distract the enemies while Stealth and Ranged Options are prepared and conducted , while the woman is too busy to give her own opinion right now (you have a feeling she'll be fine with it, though).

For DM Input:
- Do note that More Successes on their Allure Roll means a GREATER reaction from others unless they damn near match it with their Resistance, and that the greater the difference between Rolls will only amplify things even further...
- A Successful Attempt doesn't necessarily mean a purely good outcome in extreme cases like this - you might accomplish what you set out to do (DISTRACTION!), but may get more than you bargained for in exchange.
- Casting Agility/Quick Attack on something else requires you create a Invocation Spell for it, similar in process to how  Graduation Air was made. Seeing as it would be a new/unpracticed Spell expect great difficulty trying to get it to work bar some amazing Rolls and excellent imagination as to how it should work, even more so since you'd likely be doing it under great stress and pressure as you try and bail Nox out if their/her Charisma fails her/does TOO good of a job.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

The wild-looking and now acting swordswoman, however, is....too involved in the moment to really process anything but continuing the passionate exchange she started with Nox....and judging by how she was tugging at her ragged robes and beginning to feel up you lox - who was very much enjoying this turn of events - it was going to escalate to Wilder Things REALLY quickly.

. . . . . . . .THAT is the breaking point and cue for Bernhard to chip in and seperate these two carefully and gently (not 'forcefully' like he did with Zephy during the initiative Foxy Event to earn Equinox's ire). Before the Umbrelong could react, Bernhard will point towards the Group of enemies - "You want MORE, now do you, dear Nox? Well,  y o u  s h a l l  g e t  m o r e  i  n  d  e e d : *pointing intesifies* There you go. Disrupt these creatures, seduce them, have them all charmed and allured. Go wild, your unique and alluring skill shall be the very distraction we need and want. Suceed, and you shall ALSO get  m o r e  with this very willing swordslady - promised. ...Later that is, and in private, but you do have my word."

*whispers* "Be not afraid - shall things become dangerous, you know how to get out with your impressive speed and acrobatic skills (read: Booking it with Cyan Surge combined with Quick Attack for fivefold[!!!] speed) OR defend yourself with your powers of radioactivity (Read: Fighting back with Nuclear Attacks). Worst things, I am there for your as a last restort." (Read: Hmm, in that case how about making indeed use of Graduation Air to get out, if things fail? I wanted to practive that skill in Bonus Encounters [right before other things were more important, damnit] OR fight the creatures that attack Umbrelong with ranged and powerful spells)

Then, with an overly dramatic hand gesture for this very alluring and heated up chimeramon: 

"Now go, enjoy yourself~~~!!"

Course of Action:
I still want to go through with this Love is War tactic, even with the stated risk and 'getting more than I bargained for'. But let's first up wait on Dragonstrike's input, reaction and greenlight please, okay?

[Redstone]

Group #4 - Due to either divine or demonic Luck Fortuna managed to get ALL the Intel anyone could ever wish for unharmed and (maybe?) unDetected? She does her best to communicate and give a detailed of a report as possible - if only she was not Dark you could possibly extract the memories from her to read/view/share.

- Current the Sand-goth Group was in the middle of a WILD Rave/Ritual of some sort that had them MASSIVELY Distracted, and it didn't seem like it was going to be stopping anytime soon. (Stealth Bonus BIG, ???)
- The Landscape was currently Dry-yet-Bog Like and littered with Spikes on ALL Sides: Ground Bound units without a way to rise about the land were going to be slowed down and crippled MAJORLY, if not swallowed up by the very land itself! 
- The Sand-Goth was HUGE - about as big as a Small Building (Roughly 20 or so HP) - and she observed that its minions were able to freely Combine and Leave it to make it Bigger and More Twisted at Will. It also had MASSIVE Tentacles that darted out of its wretched tower-eye-stalks-^(#@ and its G A P P I N G  M A W , and it seemed to possess the ability to Levitate the sand and automatically change the Terrain around it at random.
- She found a relatively clear path to the Sand-Goth that dodges around the very worst and Weirdest of its Domain and leads to a 'safe looking' spot relatively close that would allow Ranged Attacks and is big enough to build/host a good Defense (Quick Path = Land will Stay the Same for a Bit + Good Spot Located for Defense!)
- Last but not least: they were currently stationed nearly the water, which all but the Sand-goth itself seemed to avoid like the plague and the water itself seemed completely unaffected by whatever FOUL Curses that was twisting and changing the beach itself. She also seemed to spot a few Fish Pokemon that were cautiously watching the Group for Unown reasons (though they seemed nervous/wary to her almost Keen Eyes).

After being presumably translated by Oz he'd give the raven a respectful bow.

''This improves our chances indeed, a mostly clear path should make our approach simpler then expected.''

''We should move out at once before the ever shifting terrain destroys this opurtunity once again.''

[Dragonstrike]

Spoiler

Kusanagi could not give on iota of a fuck about a random man like Mr. Pinstripes, grimly focused and ever so slightly thrilled about the upcoming fight with a REAL demon. Her performance last time was woeful of a swordman of her calibur - the next time she CUTS the monster it won't just bounce back.

The suited gunner just chuckles and waves you off, not really expecting an answer. 

The masked Native blinked as you casually slapped the Poke into his hands without bargaining at all, before he gave you a solemn nod and began recounting the extensive information he had on Masked Wolves

***

MASKED WOLF

MASKED WOLF
Alternative Name: Kamureiyō , the Masking Wolf Pokemon
Typing: Ghost/Rock
Paldean Classification: *Pseudo / Paradox (Special)
Baseline Disobedience: Variable
Best Attributes: Insight, Speed, Special
Appearance: Variable, though they are considered semi-large quadapeds with white armoring on their lupine bodies and their own Unique Porcelain Mask.

Learnset: Porcelain Claw (Rock Type Metal Claw, Raises STR), Accelrock, Fake Out, Astonish, Scratch, Strength Sap, Tail Whip, Role Play*, Mimic*, <- Level 1  Moves ; Spite (12), Shadow Sneak (16), Copycat (20, ???), Confuse Ray (24), Mask Dance (+ 1 SPE, + 1 Accuracy, Automatically Triggers Stealth, Trait, or Role Play; 28), Shadow Ball 32), Thief Delta (Steals MOVE used against it - Target Loses Move and this Move is replaced by Stolen Move for 1D4 Rounds, Innate), Power Gem (40), Mask Change ( ??? . Lv 44), Memento (Lv 48) , Lunar Dance (52)
Egg Moves: Curse, Defog, Feather Dance, Flail, Mirror Shot, Metal Sound , Meteor Mash, Pain Splait, Pursuit, Wish, Yawn

Ability: Trace (Base Game, but Mods Variable based on Species - Data on Masked Wolf Unown), Limber, Mold Breaker (HA)

Trait #1: Lunar Mask
Alters Rock Type to no longer be Weak to Water and Grass, and is the source behind many of its esoteric powers and capabilities. In turn, it's also a massive weakness - if you can manage to Steal its Mask or Destroy It then it is greatly weakened, though doing so requires immense Strength or Cunning.

Trait #2: Phase Shift
Does not follow traditional Psuedo Power Mods. Instead, it can assume the form of a Human and gain all benefits/drawbacks thereof in exchange for sealing/hiding away most of its Pokemon Form's power. Their is always a Tell - younger/less powerful one still have their Mask on their faces in some way, while others carry subtler markings. Regardless, these Mons have Human-like Intellect , Reasoning, and Creativity - in other words, a nightmare to deal with if they put their minds to it.

Trait #3: Dancing Wolf
Roll DEX + Contest +  Perform per Move / Number of Actions taken in a Round - add that as both Appeal and as Automatic Evasion/Redirection Roll of Incoming Attacks per Action Made (EX They Use Shadow Sneak and Get This Roll Tacked onto it). Better Roll vs Opposing Roll can have various effects on Masked Wolf and Combatant. The species are also Skilled Actors and Performers to a fault - catching them in the Act can prove embarassing/inconvenient while willfully playing along can be rewarding in turn.

Trait #4: Paradox (Special)
This Mon is classified as a Paradox due to it defying what is considered 'Normal and Standard' for Pokemon in ways that transcend mere Scientific Understanding, rather than strictly being a Mon that is Out of Time. Considering it's Human Levels of Intelligence and Understanding while also possessing Pokemon Powers, one would think this would have outcompeted Humanity where it lived and went; instead, they don't for reasons that elude researchers and most Natives....

Trait #5: Ephemeral Presence
Double Successes against Unwilling Captures; Can easily slip in and out of Stealth or even ??? at high enough levels, regardless of circumstance. Can survive in virtually any environment and  canphase through Non-Claimed Property/Domains. Has the capability of Speaking with the Dead and ??? of ??? .

Basic Lore: An extremely elusive and enigmatic species though to be a distantly related to Kitsunoh and Mightyena Native to Sutalor , these Masked Wolves are nomadic wanderers, traveling and cavorting throughout the lands to fulfil their own Roles in The Grand Stage of Life (as they call their general 'purpose). Possessing the nearly unheard of ability to freely transform into near-perfect Humans and their own affinity with mankind, these Mons are said to interweave their way into Native and Settler society, Dancing and Acting their Roles for their own inscrutable (though often whimsical/theatrical) reasons. They consider their Roles both a sacred, spiritual thing and a matter of professional honor; best be wary of Unmasking a Kamureiyo, for the consequences can be most grave and Strange indeed...

Their are legends this species came about of a tribe of Natives getting Cursed/Blessed into these beings, but attempts to clarify this have been met with much speculation and debate by Natives and Masked Wolves alike.

***

The.....masked man - more a young lad, now that you are focusing - coughs as you slowly look up and more closely at him and looks away, before reaching into his robes to present to you....A Black Steel Woven Braid.

"....For Fair and Honest Dealings, I give you this. Invoke its Power when the time is right against a Mask Wolf - it will Limit what one can do. ....Please, put a stop to.....their madness and their ....desperation. They....have been drawn into the Demon's Wake Unwillingly. One has gone Mad, and the other....Does What They Can. Please....help them."

The Family Friend grins and hefts his gun , a certain blood thirsty and rooting tooting gleam to his eyes that told all you need to know about his capacity to stir up trouble and Violence BIG TIME. Lopzu interjects when you bring up Rain usage - "....Apologies for interrupting my Lord, but.....Rain may not be wise to use here. So close to the sea, on loose sand and in such a turbulant atmosphere....such Weather could become more than just a mere storm."

Once Seddi has all that written down, and the young man offers an item of considerable power and significance, Seddi puts the notebook and pen away, looks him straight in the eyes...

...and then he clasps the hand offering the braid with both of his hands.

"I'll do what I can, lad.  Justice shall be done, to the best of my ability in these circumstances.  If all goes well, everything you've offered me now might help save more than Bayahama."

He then pockets the braid.

"One more question before I head out: which of those wolves is the one that's gone mad?  If I'm gonna try and break them free from this Malefic's curse, I'm goin' to need to know which one's the harder job so I can prepare accordingly."

Spoiler

Bernhard, just like Lopzu, would be against setting up rain. "As much of a smart idea it is to potentially power up our side, dear me feels it would and could potentially cause more harm than good. Same with setting up Hail by Muse or triggering Drought by my Ninetails - no, if possible I'd like to save manipulations of the weather and terrain for the Big Boss once we have reached them. Instead, I do wish to focus on taking the targets out as FAST and SWIFTLY as only possible for us."

Seddi's words of slipping in unnoticed get an approving nod from Bern, he does like that idea. "Wise thinking. You mean, you do wish to cause a distraction so that you and Lopzo can take out one of the Group's leaders quickly, do I understand that correctly? Please correct me if I am wrong."

There's a looong break before Bernhard speaks up again, as he gives the idea a good thought. "...There are INDEED ways for me to cause such a distraction. Allow me to elaborate:"

1. The most obvious, guaranteed to work but also VERY risky way would be making use of Zephy's NoticeMe!-plotdevice. If Zephy herself agrees to put herself to that risk in the first place, that is (@Lord Windos, needs your input). The plan would be the following: Prepare Zephy with a Safeguard and a cast Protect, then have her use NoticeMe! as an actual move/attack (not via Evokation) in the opposite direction you and Lopzu enter. That will draw in ALL THE ATTENTION, ( aka this move/plotdeivce functions as a 1-round-long AoE Follow Me-Effect, at the cost of granting foes +2 Accuracy and +1 Damage against Zephy.) Bernhard will stay close to Zephy, to recall her into her Premier Ball immediately when that effect triggers, leaving the foes befuddled of what happened.

2. Also very possible [and the option I'd prefer], is making use of that Flash Powder as a magical crafting ingredient Zephy brought along from her Night's Out at Afterlife (I haven't gotten to make these into actual Flash Bombs just yet, too busy Bernhard was!). It will generate a Flash-like effect for the duration of the Encounter, invisible Zephy would very well trigger that effect at the opposite direction Seddi and Lopzu will go in. Alternatively, and much muccchhh more risky, Bernhard would likewise cast a Safeguard and Protect over himself could trigger that effect himself.

3. Maybe possible, yet unsure whether it would work in the first place, make use of Equinox's Wonderous and Alluring nature: 
-- Allure*: +2 (6)(6) on all Allure-based rolls, added after dice are substracted. +3 (6)(6) is said roll involved seduction or mating. --
Have her go into the scene with the intention of seduction and mating indeed, IF she/they is fine and willing to give that a try. Both those Group's leaders are Monsters just like this chimeraeevee is - so, perhaps that can be used of advantage here? Likewise Bernhard will stay close, to intercept and recall her/them into their Ball should things become dangerous for Equinox (he would this time not intercept like he did at the actual Foxy Event however, go wild and go nsfw if these other creatures are willing)

Seddi nods as Lopzu and Bernhard offer their perspective on the weather shenanigans.  "Very well.  That Assault Vest is stayin' on Goodra for now in that case."

Spoiler

'James' bowing down that deeply, calling him 'Master Bernhard', being honored with his help and supreme character ('James'' words) and basically everything about that man treating Bern does heavily trigger his trademark 'You flatter me so~'-senses; and with a wave of his hand Bernhard thanks and gestures that guy to rise. There's a small pleased smile on the stoic Mage's face as he does so. "Well, I am grateful for your words. How could I...not lend my aid and might in this dire situation... A 'hero' I am not, but that should not hinder the city to put trust in me, now should it~"

About 'James' prioritizing my commands over Seddi's now: That gets a headshake from Bernhard. "No. Please don't. Let us...work together on taking things down. *to the cowboy directly* Your words matter JUST AS MUCH as mine. The dire situation does all but require it. We shall...make it as...*shudders and cringes visibly*...a team, I take."

Bernhard does not mention it (way too humble he is!), but him helping out does not come free. Expect him to wanting to be compensated and rewarded accordingly.

Furthermore: Anger the Mageocracy or make enemies out that part, and you are in for BIG trouble with Bernhard, regardless how lawful one may be.


No flashing of the environment then, but Lopzu's and Citrine's input ergarding that plan are noted. "So creating a lightbased effect DOES weaken curses and dark powers... Good to know indeed."

Umbrelong would likely still be out of their Ball due to showing her + explaining himself to our assigned Water Magi. No reaction from Bernhard over explaining his plan of having go down THAT particular part of his/this strategy for Distraction™, but he feels a need to smack 'James' for holding back laughter (not that Bern indulges in that though, all that guy gets is a STERN look). "Dire situation require drastic means and ways, now does it not? And to achieve one's goals and desires, one at times must walk a dark path, as much as one may not want to. Your very own words, my dear Citrine. Words that I... *facepalms*..cannot help but to completely agree, as much as a FOOL OUT OF MYSELF I risk making..." Yeah, uh, Bernhard does not enjoy this plan of having dear Equinox and her amorous nature serve as desired distraction, BUT(!!) it is favoured over putting Zephy herself at risk via NoticeMe. Oh dear, he can already FEEL the tall tales and news flashing up.

Perhaps it is worth noting that Bernhard HIMSELF appears immune towards Equinox being all charming and alluring. He will shake off any curiosity about why however with a sliiight blush.

Aaaand that blush turns into a full-fledged emebarassed and coy one over the scene Bernhard accidently(?) triggered and caused! Oh dear, oh boi, oh hell.... Uh, let's ignore Nox and the swordswoman make out; focus on getting our fellow Magi, who's been unfortunately struck witless, back up with Evocations of Aromatherapy, Helping Hand, and Zephy's icy power. Basically do everything we can to get him up and function like a normal person again. If anything however, THAT was proof enough that Equin's unique powers can be of great use in this case, even if she was ACTUALLY asked to indulge in her violent nature here. Double and triple so given Power of Amorousness seems to be a Counter to the Curse Energy.


We'll explain the plan towards everyone once the situation has gotten back under control (or forced to be under control)

- Have Oz-Hectate set up a Lucky Chant for our field to  empower the rate of success (Bern would politely ask her to do so, with great thanks to Spiritmon)
- Cast a Safeguard via Evocation over Equinox to protect her from Statuses and Curses
- Then, Equinox is asked to go and play Horny Bard(mon) towards the chosen Group 1, preferably towards the leader of the group who is NOT bloodied: As in, go in there with the intention of seduction/mating, adding +3 (6)(6) on that roll.
- If things go well, that should be enough of a distraction for Seddi(@Dragonstrike) and Lopzu to go in unnoticed and STRIKE DOWN anything that is not focused on my Umbrelong. (please, for heaven's sake, make this work without becoming too intense or lemony... [fade to black if needed])
- If it does not go well, have Equinox book it with Cyan Surge and a cast Agility and Quick Attack from Bernhard; or recall her into her Ball immediately (or both if needed). Bernhard is willing to go in there and put himself at risk of getting Equinox back, hoping that  1. this will not become necessary, and 2. the others will help saving/getting him out if needed.
- If the fight breaks out, about time to roll Initatives and chip in via Evocation Spells. Equinox shall remain out and fight as well, like a (eeewwww) Trainer's Mon.

- That should be it. Now awaiting further input and perhaps greenlight from Seddi (unless you have a much better idea, please share!), or any other clarification GM-wise before this plan can be PUT INTO ACTION (I'm like so severely scared...both over how this will go AND the consequences of going down that route)

Bernhard giving Seddi an equal footing in this discussion is appreciated by the cowboy.

And as far as the distraction play options Bernhard presented go...well, the results speak for themselves.  Seddi may have resisted the critter's influence (with Leaves's help), but even he's impressed.  Though the current situation with Lopzu is certainly...less than desirable to say the least.

The plan sounds solid to Seddi though!  He does have one thing to add: "The odds of doin' so may be slim, but if we can break the curse's hold on the Masked Wolves, we may gain a powerful ally.  A reliable source has informed me that they're being coerced into bein' this Malefic's minions.  Might be a similar situation with the Land Whales, but we could actually talk to the Masked Wolves provided we can calm them down without KOing them."

And that certainly seems much more possible if Equinox's charming allure actually goes off!  It's a long shot, but Seddi thinks it's worth going for!

There's also the possibility that one of the Masked Wolves is already trying to resist the influence of this curse based on that young lad's wording.  If the one in Group 1 is the injured entity and hasn't gone completely mad, then that may flip some of Seddi's plans on their head...

Spoiler

. . . . . . . .THAT is the breaking point and cue for Bernhard to chip in and seperate these two carefully and gently (not 'forcefully' like he did with Zephy during the initiative Foxy Event to earn Equinox's ire). Before the Umbrelong could react, Bernhard will point towards the Group of enemies - "You want MORE, now do you, dear Nox? Well,  y o u  s h a l l  g e t  m o r e  i  n  d  e e d : *pointing intesifies* There you go. Disrupt these creatures, seduce them, have them all charmed and allured. Go wild, your unique and alluring skill shall be the very distraction we need and want. Suceed, and you shall ALSO get  m o r e  with this very willing swordslady - promised. ...Later that is, and in private, but you do have my word."

*whispers* "Be not afraid - shall things become dangerous, you know how to get out with your impressive speed and acrobatic skills (read: Booking it with Cyan Surge combined with Quick Attack for fivefold[!!!] speed) OR defend yourself with your powers of radioactivity (Read: Fighting back with Nuclear Attacks). Worst things, I am there for your as a last restort." (Read: Hmm, in that case how about making indeed use of Graduation Air to get out, if things fail? I wanted to practive that skill in Bonus Encounters [right before other things were more important, damnit] OR fight the creatures that attack Umbrelong with ranged and powerful spells)

Then, with an overly dramatic hand gesture for this very alluring and heated up chimeramon: 

"Now go, enjoy yourself~~~!!"

Course of Action:
I still want to go through with this Love is War tactic, even with the stated risk and 'getting more than I bargained for'. But let's first up wait on Dragonstrike's input, reaction and greenlight please, okay?

Once Bernhard has separated Lopzu and Equinox, Seddi will have Rabsca put up a Reflect between the two of them so Lopzu can't as easily pounce on the eeveelution(?), then quietly mention to her, "May want to reconsider interactin' closely with that critter.  It seems stable, but it's clear to me that it's still a Nuclear type.  May not be healthy long term to be that close to it.  Let's refocus on the job and worry about that mess later."

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

The plan sounds solid to Seddi though!  He does have one thing to add: "The odds of doin' so may be slim, but if we can break the curse's hold on the Masked Wolves, we may gain a powerful ally.  A reliable source has informed me that they're being coerced into being this Malefic's minions.  Might be a similar situation with the Land Whales, but we could actually talk to the Masked Wolves provided we can calm them down without KOing them."

There's a loooong and pondering 'Hmmmm..." from the stoic/not-so-stoic-but mildly-emabarassed-from-the-derailed-scene Mage concering that input. It is nearly impossible to tell what he's thinking.

"Very well done, that's VERY useful information. Many thanks for that and for having found a reliable source of that information, I shall trust it and your words. *looks over to the Wolves* Curses sure are....powerful, if it can coerce these elusive creatures..."

*long stare* "You surely can try to talk to these critters if you wish to, you are great with words indeed - I however desire to attempt CAPTURING one of these Masked Wolves. They appear to be quite unique and skilled to no ends... Under the assumption that trying to do that won't anger the creature, we'll see how things go, now shall we?"

Once Bernhard has separated Lopzu and Equinox, Seddi will have Rabsca put up a Reflect between the two of them so Lopzu can't as easily pounce on the eeveelution(?), then quietly mention to her, "May want to reconsider interactin' closely with that critter.  It seems stable, but it's clear to me that it's still a Nuclear type.  May not be healthy long term to be that close to it.  Let's refocus on the job and worry about that mess later."

Ah, Bernhard can dispell that worry: "Oh, be not worried or afraid. My dear Equinox IS safe to be around regardless her unique corrosive power; my deepest gratitude to Bayhama's government officials." There's a quite satified smile on Bern's face upon stating that, he even mildly smiles. (Read; Their held Radiant Topaz absorbs the radioactive energy they emit and eliminates the risk of their Nuclear Energy corrupting/sickening others quite nicely via Feedback Loop, but not that Seddi or anyone knows this.) "It is more like..her amorous nature that one should be wary of, perhaps." *shrugs*

Oh right, and Lopzu shall receive a whispered "M o r e ~, if you do wish for it, shall follow LATER and in PRIVATE. See it...as a reward~ for doing a great job in this fight ahead."

-------------------------------------------------------
EDIT: That's greenlight for the plan! Let's goooooo!!~

[Dragonstrike]

There's a loooong and pondering 'Hmmmm..." from the stoic/not-so-stoic-but mildly-emabarassed-from-the-derailed-scene Mage concering that input. It is nearly impossible to tell what he's thinking.

"Very well done, that's VERY useful information. Many thanks for that and for having found a reliable source of that information, I shall trust it and your words. *looks over to the Wolves* Curses sure are....powerful, if it can coerce these elusive creatures..."

*long stare* "You surely can try to talk to these critters if you wish to, you are great with words indeed - I however desire to attempt CAPTURING one of these Masked Wolves. They appear to be quite unique and skilled to no ends... Under the assumption that trying to do that won't anger the creature, we'll see how things go, now shall we?"

Seddi gives Bernhard a long, thoughtful look in return, then nods.  "Let's hope we can break that curse's hold on them and get in their good books then.  We do this right and we do it well, convincin' one to join us willingly might actually be reasonable."

[Lord Windos]

Group #4 - Due to either divine or demonic Luck Fortuna managed to get ALL the Intel anyone could ever wish for unharmed and (maybe?) unDetected? She does her best to communicate and give a detailed of a report as possible - if only she was not Dark you could possibly extract the memories from her to read/view/share.

- Current the Sand-goth Group was in the middle of a WILD Rave/Ritual of some sort that had them MASSIVELY Distracted, and it didn't seem like it was going to be stopping anytime soon. (Stealth Bonus BIG, ???)
- The Landscape was currently Dry-yet-Bog Like and littered with Spikes on ALL Sides: Ground Bound units without a way to rise about the land were going to be slowed down and crippled MAJORLY, if not swallowed up by the very land itself! 
- The Sand-Goth was HUGE - about as big as a Small Building (Roughly 20 or so HP) - and she observed that its minions were able to freely Combine and Leave it to make it Bigger and More Twisted at Will. It also had MASSIVE Tentacles that darted out of its wretched tower-eye-stalks-^(#@ and its G A P P I N G  M A W , and it seemed to possess the ability to Levitate the sand and automatically change the Terrain around it at random.
- She found a relatively clear path to the Sand-Goth that dodges around the very worst and Weirdest of its Domain and leads to a 'safe looking' spot relatively close that would allow Ranged Attacks and is big enough to build/host a good Defense (Quick Path = Land will Stay the Same for a Bit + Good Spot Located for Defense!)
- Last but not least: they were currently stationed nearly the water, which all but the Sand-goth itself seemed to avoid like the plague and the water itself seemed completely unaffected by whatever FOUL Curses that was twisting and changing the beach itself. She also seemed to spot a few Fish Pokemon that were cautiously watching the Group for Unown reasons (though they seemed nervous/wary to her almost Keen Eyes).

After being presumably translated by Oz he'd give the raven a respectful bow.

''This improves our chances indeed, a mostly clear path should make our approach simpler then expected.''

''We should move out at once before the ever shifting terrain destroys this opurtunity once again.''

@Spiritmon

As you wind down all the discussion and iron out the last details of your plans a grim, determined silence befalls you all.

The Chief Officer and the two subordinates he's taking nods their head to everyone (even 'John' ) and Summon their mounts - his Overgrown Flareon for himself and a pair of Pontya for the juniors. They move in front of the Big Dragons (Ecclessia and Gloomtail), being the first line of response to whatever Chaos tries to ensnare you all.

The BBs - 'John' and his five goons - form up just behind the dragons. The boss smoothly leaps on his noxious ogre while the rest summon a mix of Dark, Fighting, and Poison Types (some black sheep and rats here, a Scarfty there, and for Koffings, etc) . A scowl was on the well-dressed thug's face as he glared out in the distance, and all his brothers let out a rallying cry against all that would fuck with this crew.

The mysterious Priestess takes her place in the center of the formation, though she is never too far from Oz. Every step she took saw her slowly rise off the ground, until she was just floating, eyes closed and hands clasped in prayer. Everyone had a feeling she was far from blind or restricted in her meditations...

The Blade Lineage members Faust and Sault guarded the back, stoic and composed in defiance to the malevolent atmosphere that was so suffocating and oppressive. Their hands were lose by their sides, yet near their namesakes - at ease, yet ready to Strike and Sever in a blink of an eye. Faust favors Akamu with a nod, while Sault simply stares at Oz for a moment.

With a little difficulty Oz/Fortuna are able to set up Lucky Chant and Tailwind for the ENTIRE group and keep it sustained for some time; Crits Negated, (1)(1)s Negated, Curses, Misses, and Fortunate Events are much less punishing,  and + 2 DEX to ALL. Lucky Chant is also casted on Seddi's and Bern's part of the War Band, for the aforementioned Will Cost to Oz and Persaphone. It's not really helping the Wonderous Witch's headaches or lingering tiredness, however - progress made towards Exhausting Oz and Fortuna, + 1 Pain. 

Akamu is able to get Safeguard up for him and His Team; *Rolls* and 7 Others thanks to Oz chipping in a little to expand its reach. For now I'm just going to assume the ones affected are going to be Oz and her Team; the rest of the pack will have to make do. - 1 Will for the Pokemon that casted Safeguard, however, for straining themselves in the process.

For Oz, I'll assume you're keeping your Ground-Bound Sisters in their Balls and flying/floating Center-Above the group to act as sentries/keep away from the mess, while Akamu is right behind his Big Dragons. The Coven have fallen into a silent, almost trance-like state of Focus - your Sisters were ready for WAR. Ecclessia was grinning from fin to fin, while Gloomtail *STOMPED* on the ground a few times, impatient but [EAGER] to get the chance to gain [GLORY] and prove its [DOMINANCE] to these weird but [FOUL] pests.

Everyone is ready.

Fortuna glides a little ahead and this rag-tag bunch marches behind her, doing their best to follow the 'safe' road she trails....

============

Music: Dawn of War - Chaos Theme

Trouble / Complications/CHAOS Roll - 7D6 - 4 (Good Scouting) + 1 Success for all Ground Bound Party Members
(3)(3)(2) Only 1 Event Occurs along the route to the 'Safe Spot' in the CHAOS Zone.

Target: 1 - 3 : The Police , 4 - 6 : Akamu and his Big Dragons , 7 - 11: 'John' and the BBs , 12-13 : The BLs , 14 - 20: Wild Card
(13) Sault

Event and Severity: 1D100 &  8D6 Fortune Roll - Lower / Higher = More Extreme 
(18)  Lower Quartile & (3)(3)(2)(3) (6)(2)(3)(3) Trios, Duces, 1 Success and 2 Fails

Priestess's Intervention: 7D6 Fortune Roll
(2)(1)(2)(4) (2)(2)(1) Duce of Duces, 1 Success, Blinded Snake Eyes

...


Suddenly a trio of sand vortexes emerge underneath Sault, while two walls of Rock suddenly cut him off from the rest of the group! For a moment it seems like he was going to fall and get sucked and crushed under the rocky sand, but just as quickly a path of stone steps appear and part of the Rock Walls just as quickly sink back down! 

*Blink*

....And the swordsman is across the sandtraps, joining back up with Faust in a burst of speed and grace that is stunning! Disaster Averted by the Power of the Priestess! Said woman smiles, eyes closed...

(2)(6)(3)(4)(4)(1)(2) ....and she starts becoming transparent: 4 Will expended; 26/30 Willpower remaining. 

===

Aside from that spot of difficulty everyone manages to make it to the Safe Spot unscathed, which has a direct line of sight to the....party the Sand-goth and its damned minions were 'having' . [/b]The Police Officers are quick to set up a Defensive Perimeter, while 3 of the BB Goons are put to work filling in gaps and covering the cops backs and the Big Dragons guard/lead the way towards the CHAOS forward.[/b] None of the creatures notice you, too busy with their abhorrent revelry. None

Trouble/Complications/CHAOS 2: Establishing the Safe Zone
11D6 - 6 (Good Spot, Quick Response) + 1
(2)(4)(4)(3)(1) 3 Events

(7) (5) (2) 'John' , Ecclessia, and an Officer

Rolling one 1D20 for each and 4D6 Fortune Dice.
'John' : (10)*Flip Coin* Positive & (6)(5)(5)(1) Pair of 5s, 1 Success
Ecclessia: (18) VERY Positive & (2)(1)(6)(4) 2 Successes, 1 Fail
Officer: (2) VERY Negative & (3)(5)(3)(5) 2 Pair - 5s and 3s
Priestess? : *Flips* Not this time.

John finds some old spiked chains that [b]glow with Dark Power, which he happily wraps around his fists with a violent grin - Convert Damage into Dark Type and Inflict 3D6 Bleed on self and enemies per Hit made[/b].

Ecclessia finds 2 Super Potions that suddenly bubbled up from the sand; she also finds that she is now unhindered by the Bog too!

The Officer's and his Pontya's shadow come to life - both sport wicked white grins before they grapple the pair and - **&^*(*^&%&%^$#! 

.....The Officer and Pontya are then merged together with their Evil Shadows into a CHAOS Twisted Nucklavee, who promptly lets out a deranged hee-haying laugh and charges off to JOIN the Sand-Goth's 'party' , who accept their with much REJOICING and no reaction towards the rest of the group, judging by how things have gotten even MORE Wild and grotesquely rancorous over there[/b]. The Chief has to stop his other officer from chasing after them and breaking down, grimly shaking their head and gripping his fist so tightly his gloves begin to tear before resuming the setup. 

End Result: Safe Zone established, but 1 Officer is Lost to CHAOS, joining Sand-Goth's Legion's as the Twisted CHAOS Nucklavee. While you remain in the Safe Zone any Attacks on you will be rolled with Disadvantage and Negative Outcomes are greatly diminished; gain advantage of Defense and Ranged Combat Rolls, and have a clear line of sight/path Free of 'Danger' to the Sand-Goth.

Speaking of which, let's do a Perception Roll:  15D6 For Oz!
*Rolls*

...
...
...

The Sand-goth.....you can see it clearly, and the very Cursed sight almost drives your Confusion into hellish Insanity were it not for a quick Calm Mind and the power of Lucky Chant alloying your Fused Will. Every part of your SOUL squirms as you Instinctively [CENSOR] its HORRID visage. I dare not describe it in depth- all you need to know it looks like a melted, rigid Gate-Way with tentacles and eyes (oh GOD the eyes) sprouting from the VOID HELL CHAOS mouth , the EYES, and oiuiiasdfkjklwej; iower fkas;dfjoiwuer OH HOW YOUR HEAD TREMBLES.

The rest of the party doesn't get near affected by it like you, though Glinda and Persaphone blanch and the Priestess frowns in stern disapproval at IT. 

The....party.......it was a disorganized mess, littered with trash, debree, stuff, junk, rocks, WHATEVER around a deep pit of Blood Red Fire, where the Chaos Twisted Nucklavee was now dancing and braying in a morkish show for all. The ocean was to the back of them, the Fish Mons within and near watching with dreadful anticipation. 

...You see small charred, cooked corpses that the Sand-goth spears and then GOBBLES up with zeal and RELISH.

They look like children. 

....And you see one child still alive, a small dark haired boy in swimming trunks that was comatose between two Twisted, Curse Palossand that were guarding him....protectively, trying to feed him Berries and....dote on him. Lovely-Maternal-Paternal-Must Protect-Must Feed, if the twisted feelings you were faintly but PUNGENTLY getting from them are accurate.

...You are quick to share your findings with Akamu, but leave the rest of the party in the dark as you decide....decide....by all that is Good and Pure you would do to BANISH this monstrosity back to and beyond the Abyss. ...There was also The Child to consider. Was it a trap or some twisted Favor from the Sand-Goth? Was it worth trying to save them, or......

... Whatever it is you Choose to do, you better act fast - who knows how long this Safe Zone will remain so, or if the Sand-Goth and ITS minions randomly decide to bring the party to YOU or WORSE.

[Redstone]

Spoiler

As you wind down all the discussion and iron out the last details of your plans a grim, determined silence befalls you all.

The Chief Officer and the two subordinates he's taking nods their head to everyone (even 'John' ) and Summon their mounts - his Overgrown Flareon for himself and a pair of Pontya for the juniors. They move in front of the Big Dragons (Ecclessia and Gloomtail), being the first line of response to whatever Chaos tries to ensnare you all.

The BBs - 'John' and his five goons - form up just behind the dragons. The boss smoothly leaps on his noxious ogre while the rest summon a mix of Dark, Fighting, and Poison Types (some black sheep and rats here, a Scarfty there, and for Koffings, etc) . A scowl was on the well-dressed thug's face as he glared out in the distance, and all his brothers let out a rallying cry against all that would fuck with this crew.

The mysterious Priestess takes her place in the center of the formation, though she is never too far from Oz. Every step she took saw her slowly rise off the ground, until she was just floating, eyes closed and hands clasped in prayer. Everyone had a feeling she was far from blind or restricted in her meditations...

The Blade Lineage members Faust and Sault guarded the back, stoic and composed in defiance to the malevolent atmosphere that was so suffocating and oppressive. Their hands were lose by their sides, yet near their namesakes - at ease, yet ready to Strike and Sever in a blink of an eye. Faust favors Akamu with a nod, while Sault simply stares at Oz for a moment.

With a little difficulty Oz/Fortuna are able to set up Lucky Chant and Tailwind for the ENTIRE group and keep it sustained for some time; Crits Negated, (1)(1)s Negated, Curses, Misses, and Fortunate Events are much less punishing,  and + 2 DEX to ALL. Lucky Chant is also casted on Seddi's and Bern's part of the War Band, for the aforementioned Will Cost to Oz and Persaphone. It's not really helping the Wonderous Witch's headaches or lingering tiredness, however - progress made towards Exhausting Oz and Fortuna, + 1 Pain. 

Akamu is able to get Safeguard up for him and His Team; *Rolls* and 7 Others thanks to Oz chipping in a little to expand its reach. For now I'm just going to assume the ones affected are going to be Oz and her Team; the rest of the pack will have to make do. - 1 Will for the Pokemon that casted Safeguard, however, for straining themselves in the process.

For Oz, I'll assume you're keeping your Ground-Bound Sisters in their Balls and flying/floating Center-Above the group to act as sentries/keep away from the mess, while Akamu is right behind his Big Dragons. The Coven have fallen into a silent, almost trance-like state of Focus - your Sisters were ready for WAR. Ecclessia was grinning from fin to fin, while Gloomtail *STOMPED* on the ground a few times, impatient but [EAGER] to get the chance to gain [GLORY] and prove its [DOMINANCE] to these weird but [FOUL] pests.

Everyone is ready.

Fortuna glides a little ahead and this rag-tag bunch marches behind her, doing their best to follow the 'safe' road she trails....

============

Music: Dawn of War - Chaos Theme

Trouble / Complications/CHAOS Roll - 7D6 - 4 (Good Scouting) + 1 Success for all Ground Bound Party Members
(3)(3)(2) Only 1 Event Occurs along the route to the 'Safe Spot' in the CHAOS Zone.

Target: 1 - 3 : The Police , 4 - 6 : Akamu and his Big Dragons , 7 - 11: 'John' and the BBs , 12-13 : The BLs , 14 - 20: Wild Card
(13) Sault

Event and Severity: 1D100 &  8D6 Fortune Roll - Lower / Higher = More Extreme 
(18)  Lower Quartile & (3)(3)(2)(3) (6)(2)(3)(3) Trios, Duces, 1 Success and 2 Fails

Priestess's Intervention: 7D6 Fortune Roll
(2)(1)(2)(4) (2)(2)(1) Duce of Duces, 1 Success, Blinded Snake Eyes

...


Suddenly a trio of sand vortexes emerge underneath Sault, while two walls of Rock suddenly cut him off from the rest of the group! For a moment it seems like he was going to fall and get sucked and crushed under the rocky sand, but just as quickly a path of stone steps appear and part of the Rock Walls just as quickly sink back down! 

*Blink*

....And the swordsman is across the sandtraps, joining back up with Faust in a burst of speed and grace that is stunning! Disaster Averted by the Power of the Priestess! Said woman smiles, eyes closed...

(2)(6)(3)(4)(4)(1)(2) ....and she starts becoming transparent: 4 Will expended; 26/30 Willpower remaining. 

===

Aside from that spot of difficulty everyone manages to make it to the Safe Spot unscathed, which has a direct line of sight to the....party the Sand-goth and its damned minions were 'having' . [/b]The Police Officers are quick to set up a Defensive Perimeter, while 3 of the BB Goons are put to work filling in gaps and covering the cops backs and the Big Dragons guard/lead the way towards the CHAOS forward.[/b] None of the creatures notice you, too busy with their abhorrent revelry. None

Trouble/Complications/CHAOS 2: Establishing the Safe Zone
11D6 - 6 (Good Spot, Quick Response) + 1
(2)(4)(4)(3)(1) 3 Events

(7) (5) (2) 'John' , Ecclessia, and an Officer

Rolling one 1D20 for each and 4D6 Fortune Dice.
'John' : (10)*Flip Coin* Positive & (6)(5)(5)(1) Pair of 5s, 1 Success
Ecclessia: (18) VERY Positive & (2)(1)(6)(4) 2 Successes, 1 Fail
Officer: (2) VERY Negative & (3)(5)(3)(5) 2 Pair - 5s and 3s
Priestess? : *Flips* Not this time.

John finds some old spiked chains that [b]glow with Dark Power, which he happily wraps around his fists with a violent grin - Convert Damage into Dark Type and Inflict 3D6 Bleed on self and enemies per Hit made[/b].

Ecclessia finds 2 Super Potions that suddenly bubbled up from the sand; she also finds that she is now unhindered by the Bog too!

The Officer's and his Pontya's shadow come to life - both sport wicked white grins before they grapple the pair and - **&^*(*^&%&%^$#! 

.....The Officer and Pontya are then merged together with their Evil Shadows into a CHAOS Twisted Nucklavee, who promptly lets out a deranged hee-haying laugh and charges off to JOIN the Sand-Goth's 'party' , who accept their with much REJOICING and no reaction towards the rest of the group, judging by how things have gotten even MORE Wild and grotesquely rancorous over there[/b]. The Chief has to stop his other officer from chasing after them and breaking down, grimly shaking their head and gripping his fist so tightly his gloves begin to tear before resuming the setup. 

End Result: Safe Zone established, but 1 Officer is Lost to CHAOS, joining Sand-Goth's Legion's as the Twisted CHAOS Nucklavee. While you remain in the Safe Zone any Attacks on you will be rolled with Disadvantage and Negative Outcomes are greatly diminished; gain advantage of Defense and Ranged Combat Rolls, and have a clear line of sight/path Free of 'Danger' to the Sand-Goth.

The....party.......it was a disorganized mess, littered with trash, debree, stuff, junk, rocks, WHATEVER around a deep pit of Blood Red Fire, where the Chaos Twisted Nucklavee was now dancing and braying in a morkish show for all. The ocean was to the back of them, the Fish Mons within and near watching with dreadful anticipation. 

...You see small charred, cooked corpses that the Sand-goth spears and then GOBBLES up with zeal and RELISH.

They look like children. 

....And you see one child still alive, a small dark haired boy in swimming trunks that was comatose between two Twisted, Curse Palossand that were guarding him....protectively, trying to feed him Berries and....dote on him. Lovely-Maternal-Paternal-Must Protect-Must Feed, if the twisted feelings you were faintly but PUNGENTLY getting from them are accurate.

...You are quick to share your findings with Akamu, but leave the rest of the party in the dark as you decide....decide....by all that is Good and Pure you would do to BANISH this monstrosity back to and beyond the Abyss. ...There was also The Child to consider. Was it a trap or some twisted Favor from the Sand-Goth? Was it worth trying to save them, or......

... Whatever it is you Choose to do, you better act fast - who knows how long this Safe Zone will remain so, or if the Sand-Goth and ITS minions randomly decide to bring the party to YOU or WORSE.

The officer getting converted does little but strengthen his resolve, staring at the *party* with an amount of disgust he didn't think he'd be capable of. The sooner they put that thing down the better.

One of the children being alive did make him pause for a second, though he had to disregard it for the time being. Trying to save him *now* would lead to their doom.

Turning back to the group with their now finished preperations: ''Are you ready? Lets strike now while we have the time to do so.''

''Ecclesia, Nalu, to arms. Target the big one first and foremost. Mist, Draco Meteor, Abyssal Undertow and Twister.  Rain Dance, Toxic, Acid Spray and Scald.''


(Ecclesia: 3+4+4-2=9. 3+4+4-5=6. 3+4+4-6=5. 3+4+4-8=3)

(Nalu: 3+2-2=3. 3+4+5-5=7, 3+4+5-6=6, 3+4+5-8=4)