ohmyarceus | March - April Test Drive

A: New Bark Town

...That was very strange.

[Really, what else is there to say when you've been rushed out the door of a home that's unfamiliar with only a backpack and some kind of toy ball to protect you, by a woman who calls herself your mother but very clearly is not? Bruno isn't sure how he's going to wrap his mind around this, though he can already tell doing so will most likely stretch his brain to its limits.

A vision is an option, he figures. It's just not one he thinks will help much, because knowing how this all ultimately goes doesn't show him how to get there. And what if he sees himself staying here forever? No thank you! He'd rather not know. And, in all honesty, he also super does not want to anyway. Visions are exhausting. He can't wipe himself out doing that, he has to stay on his guard.

Even if he's just sitting on the front steps of the house he was just kicked out of. Again, it's a lot to wrap his mind around. He needs a moment. But during this moment he's taking, he starts to get fidgety, and pulls out the red and white toy that woman gave him. He starts tossing it from hand to hand, and at one point fumbles it. That's when things get even stranger.

Bruno doesn't know how that intimadting creature was in there, nor does he dwell on it. He just stares at it - after an instinctive flinch when he first sees it, that is. But this beast doesn't seem to want to hurt him, because it's just staring right back. Expectantly.]

...Um. Hi?

B: Network, Video
[Bruno is still trying to figure all this out a week later, but he's also kind of enjoying himself? It's not the best place, and he misses his family. But deep down, he also feels relief to be here, traveling on his own, and not back in Casita where there's all those people, and he loves them, but everyone's trying to work on the family dynamic and themselves and they're all sharing one bathroom on top of that; every moment has the potential to get very awkward in the blink of an eye. Bruno? He's an introvert. Always has been.

Which is why this is his first time addressing the community over the Pokegear. Some will no doubt recognize his location as Violet City. Or, rather, very nearby: Bruno is sitting on the edge of Slowpoke Well. This is probably a bold move for someone who could catch a Pokeball he threw to himself! But so far, so good. Absol sits beside him, looking around with alert eyes, and a Galarian Slowpoke is lying across his lap.]

Buenas tardes, everyone. I'm, uh, Bruno Madrigal. This is only for us guys who don't belong here, right? I've met a couple of you on the way to this town. Probably not that many overall, though. [He pauses, thoughtful.] Well, I don't know, how many of us are there?

[Video calls are 100% new to him. He is genuinely expecting an immediate response that of course doesn't come. So he shrugs.]

Eh, it doesn't matter, really. ...Right, introductions. This is Absol. [As he says that, he just his head in said Pokemon's direction.] And this guy joined us today. [With a little difficulty, this wisp of a man picks up Slowpoke and turns it to face the camera. Then, in a goofy and deep voice, he speaks as the Pokemon.]

Hello, I'm Slowpoke! I was sleeping next to the well and Bruno tripped over me! He almost fell into the well, isn't that silly? Oh, but don't worry, everyone's okay now.

[That's as long as Bruno can comfortably hold up nearly 80 pounds of Pokemon, so he sets Slowpoke back down in his lap with a soft chuckle.]

That was just a little-- Well, nevermind, I really only wanted to introduce myself and my team. So... Thanks for listening.

C: Wildcard
Hit me with anything else you may have in mind, and don't feel like you have to stay locked to Johto locations.

A: New Bark Town
[it has been a very long and frustrating morning for Rick. his "Mom" insisted that she was as such for a good two hours, the Professors were no help at all, and now he's standing outside the Lab hollering ... at the sky.]

Okay, the scripted dialogue means there's aaaaaaaaa-[belch]-absolutely no effort being put into this at all. I've watched my grandson play this stupid game enough to know what you're trying to pull here, so just cut the crap and get out here already. Tell me - tell me what stupid super science trade secrets you want to know, et cetera, and we'll be done in time for me to grab dinner at Shoney's.

"Give GameFreak a break", no shit, geez.

B: Ruins of Alph
[Ancient ruins and a lab in one place are pretty much a beacon to Rick: a beacon that smells like money. Only, the archaeologists keep swatting him away from their work, and that work includes some of the most interesting-looking stuff. Without portal gun or gadgets, he's low on options, so he opens up his Pokeball and lets out his Ferroseed.]

Okay. So, you eat minerals and stuff, yeah? Rock type. Dig me a hole over there. So I can get at the really good stuff. Or at least tell me if there's a mineral in here worth bothering with.

[as Rick is, at best, a sub-par trainer, the Ferroseed just ... stares at him]

Hello? ... At least be a distraction! Never thought I'd see something more useless than a Jerry.

C: Outside Ecruteak Gym
[Anyone outside the Ecruteak Gym will find it hard to miss the old man with the spiky blue hair being hauled outside by two members of the Gym staff...]

You asswipes! I'M NOT LEAVING UNTIL I GET TO TALK TO MORTY. And not that blonde twinky stand-in they've got in there! THE REAL MORTY. You can try and fool me with whatever the hell this is, but Iiiii'm - I'm tellin' you right now that IT'S NOT WORRR-[urp]-KING.

[they deposit him on the street, turn, and head back inside the Gym. Rick immediately gets to his feet and scrambles after them, only -]

Hey, what the shit! Don't lock the door! THIS IS A PUBLIC BUILDING, YOU IDIOTS. You're keeping some kid from their dreams!

[he turns and spots ... you, yes you.]

HEY! You! Yeah, you! Come here and help me prove my point. You - you - your dreams, they're in there, right? All that critter merit badge crap?

1. New Bark = New Start! (Action)

[Last thing Sayori remembers is... well, a lot of darkness. And then she wakes up in a bed that's definitely not hers - there's a distinct lack of plushies on it. The room is also not hers.

Ooookay...

When she gets out of the bed a woman claiming to be her mother - wait, she can't remember, did she ever have a mother? - gives her a bag, a funny looking ball and some confusing spiel about her going on a Pokemon journey and then sends her off the door. It's a whirlwind of info and action that catches Sayori seriously off guard so she just stands around at the front door of the house, bag and ball in hand, staring into nothing for a second.]

W-What just happened?? [She asks loudly to herself, earning herself a few confused and curious looks.}

A-Ah, hah... Sorry, sorry! [She excuses herself and walks away from the house in quick, small steps, face a little red. What a great first impression in... whatever this place is.

She walks up to a bench and plops herself down, head dizzy from all that just happened. OK, so, Pokemon journey. Whatever that is, that's what she's supposed to be doing. Was she transferred into a new game? It was possible. But this place feels different from the Literature Club. It feels... weirdly real.

With a deep breath, she looks down at the ball on her hand. She didn't even have time to study just what that thing was. She stares at it for a while, then her curiosity gets the better of her and she pokes the small button on the side.

And out of it, a bright and colorful Galarian Ponyta emerges, shaking her head to puff up her mane and stretching her long legs.]

OH MY GOD, IT'S AN UNICORN!! [She shouts, and earns herself even more confused looks.] Aren't you guys supposed to be just a myth? How are you inside a ball? [Someone should probably talk to her and clear up her confusion.]

2. Cute Duo (Network - Video)

[After some nice soul explains to Sayori that, no, her Ponyta isn't an unicorn and she isn't gonna grant wishes or something, Sayori decides to make a network post. To introduce herself to everyone because that's the polite thing to do!]

Oh, hm, I hope this is recording right!

Hey, hello! Hm... I'm Sayori. I'm new here! I just wanted to introduce myself and, oh, also introduce my partner... anh... I don't have a name for her yet... [She moves the camera a bit to show the Ponyta next to her, standing tall and proud.] I want to give her the cutest name though, because she's so sparkly and pretty!

What else... Ah, if you see anyone around here dressed like me, can you... let me know? [She moves away a bit so people can see the school uniform she's wearing. Maybe the other girls from the club were sent here as well? It was worth the shot.]

OK, that's all, bye!! [She waves to the camera enthusiastically before cutting the feed.]

Edited 2022-03-08 16:02 (UTC)

1)Cianwood City

[ Levi found himself starring at the beach in dismay as he landed softely into the sand. He was confused by the new surroundings, let alone that this was a beach. One minute he was flying through the roof tops and then suddenly he was in some kind of beach resort area. What caused this sudden transition? Why did he no longer have his gear and weapons?

He particularly didn't like that this was a beach. It was the last place he didn't want to be near even though his team had fantasized about it. It had been a major goal they eventually reached that had cost them a lot. It didn't appeal to him with the time he spent growing up in the undregrounds and he couldn't enjoy the beauty the beach brought.

Idly, he picked up a small sea shell and brushed the sand off of it. Levi found himself to be extremely out of place. Nor did he not like the fact he was weaponless. He felt exposed and more on edge.

Perhaps, he could figure out what was going on and why he ended up here. He studied the shell before pocketing it in his jacket and then wiped his hands on the edge of his cloak, making a face at the sand. It was time to stop dwelling on the confusion and to figure out what this city had to offer in the way of answers. He turned and began to head toward the city.]

2)Network post:
[A video comes up with the view of a small Pokemon holding a bag. One can see the edge of the boots and part of the green cloak Levi is wearing as he's trying to focus the device on the creature. A few seconds later Levi finally speaks. There's a touch of annoyance in his tone.]

Is it normal to have a creature following you around with a bag? I have other things to worry about besides this persistent creature.

3) Wild Card
Feel free to hit me with anything else.

[Feel free to pm me. This would be the best way to reach me. I'm very rusty with rp in general and don't mind advice and I appreciate your patience.]

Edited 2022-03-15 02:34 (UTC)

[ ooc: note that all of senju's prompts contain manga spoilers for Tokyo Revengers, so if you respond, I'll assume you're fine with spoilers! ]

NEW BARK TOWN

[ When the woman claiming she's her mother shoves her out of the house, Senju finds it difficult to swallow down the lump in her throat, even as confused and overwhelmed as she is. ...She knows that there's no way this lady is really her mother, of course, but... well, it's not like she's ever had a mother before, either.

But the moment she steps outside is when the full weight of the situation really hits her. Before she can panic, though... she gets a good look at the Mienfoo by her side - and all of a sudden, all her questions about where she is vanish at once.

She... must be dreaming, right? There's no creature like that that exists in Japan - no, that exists in the world at all. She's sure she would've seen a creature like this one before, even if just on TV or something! The panic Senju feels about being kidnapped - because that's the only explanation, isn't it? - is still there in her mind, but this situation is so outright bizarre that it's difficult to feel anything but bafflement about what's happening.

Abruptly, Senju sits cross-legged on the floor, hoping to get a better look at the strange creature beside her. It makes a noise like nothing she's ever heard before, and as she stares at it... and it stares back... it almost looks like some kind of staring contest is taking place between them. In fact, she's so focused on the creature that she's unlikely to notice anyone approaching her now... so you might need to get her attention somehow. ]

NETWORK [ VIDEO ]

[ So, Senju's still pretty sure she might be dreaming - but all this feels way too real to be a dream, so she might as well treat it as reality for now, right? That's why she's making this video. ]

Uh... hi! [ The video begins. Senju sits with her Mienfoo in her lap, looking unsure of herself. It's a little difficult to determine her gender just from looking, and her voice doesn't help matters, either. ]

I was told that I'm not the only one in this situation, so... I wanted to let everyone know who I am. My name is Senju Kawaragi. Oh, and, uh, this guy's my partner, it seems! [ After introducing herself, she seems to gain more confidence, and continues the rest of her speech in a steadier tone. ]

There's none of you out there who've heard of me, right? [ ...Saying that out loud feels a little arrogant, but she has to make sure. ] I don't think it's likely, but if you're out there, Takeomi... or anyone who knows who I am, get in contact, okay? You're not alone.

[ For a moment, she wonders- should she contact Haruchiyo, too? But... no.

He wouldn't respond, anyway. ]

To everyone else, I hope we can get along. If you've been here for a while, I'd appreciate any advice!

WILDCARD

[ Feel free to throw anything at Senju here! I'm available to plot at

Rivenix if you want a plotted starter! ]

01. Icefall Cave

[To her, it's the closest thing to home. Every other place, every other area she's seen, been to, feels the opposite. Warm and welcoming. Enough to leave Ysayle on edge, riddled with a healthy amount of scepticism and wariness. It's all been explained to her, but just because that's the case doesn't mean she's acclimating well.

Truthfully, she'd admit (at least to herself) that it hasn't been the smoothest transition. Perhaps that could be expected, given her circumstances. One does not face what she did back home, only to come to a place where she is almost certainly alive and handle it particularly well.

Regardless, Icefall Cave is the first place, and the only one she's found so far that feels even remotely like something she'd be accustomed to. Except even here it's a little more cheery than she would expect. When she pictures ice and snow, the embrace of chilling cold and the kiss of a winter upon her cheeks, it isn't cheer she's thinking of. But to claim Ysayle has ever been a cheerful person would be a bit of a stretch.

As she moves carefully, trying to garner as little attention as she possibly can, a small lapras tails behind her. It's the same one she's been trying to get rid of since she arrived. Rather, it's taken quite a liking to her and no amount of her trying to coax it away has done any good. It's hers, someone has once explained, but Ysayle's never asked for it. Seems glued to her either way. When she does finally catch wind of it, she stops in her ever gradual creeping and attempts to wave it away.]

Go on, then! You have no business with me.

[It's hard to be forceful when she's trying not to attract attention to herself. Or slide across the ice, which is exactly what happens when in her attempt to wave off said small lapras, Ysayle goes sliding across the ice.

She never asked for this.]

02. Network | Video

[Ysayle has absolutely zero interest in showing herself to... anyone, as she either doesn't anticipate sticking around, or she simply isn't the most sociable person. Both are accurate in their own way. Instead, she makes the entire subject of her entry about the same little lapras that happily croons as it rolls over on what appears to be no shortage of sand by the gentle lull of incoming tide.

...It may be a glutton for punishment in her company. Or it simply enjoys being on camera. A diva in the making? Ysayle doesn't know what to make of it.]

How do I rid myself of it.

[Free small lapras to a good home! Or any home! Except that isn't how it works and Ysayle hasn't figured that part out yet.]

03. Wildcard

[As read on the tin. If the above don't strike you, we can do something different here. I'm rather flexible, but if you have questions, please feel free to DM me.]

A. New Bark Town
[Vierna has not, quite, worked up the nerve to leave town. No, not the nerve, she's not frightened. But it would be foolish to go rushing off across this strange surface realm without taking a moment to gather her wits and evaluate her resources. Especially when arriving here had been such a disorienting experience. For a variety of reasons.

For one thing, it's the middle of the day, and while her new form is not, thankfully, as sensitive to bright light as her true self would be, she still feels unnaturally exposed. Lingering in the strange domicile she'd woken to hadn't been an option, though - she doesn't know what was going on with that, although she supposes she has to be thankful that the strange human woman hadn't actually been anything like her mother, because Matron Malice would never have allowed an intruder to walk away.

So for the moment, the dark-skinned young woman is lurking in the shade of one of New Bark Town's few buildings, holding a Zubat with one hand firmly under each wing and frowning thoughtfully at it.]

Ugly little thing, aren't you? [The pokemon wriggles and shrieks at her. In a friendly way? Maybe?]

B. Network; Video
[It's early evening, and the message is recorded from what appears to be a quiet corner of Violet City. Vierna's changed into her spare outfit - the gen three Hex Maniac outfit, to be exact. At the angle that she's holding the PokeGear to film herself, her Zubat is just visible nestled under her cloak. She's low-key scowling down the camera the entire time she speaks, which just makes the red of her eyes more obvious.]

This is Vierna Do'Urden. I've been lead to understand that the next stretch of road is somewhat longer and more perilous than that which I've already traveled. I have no desire to spend the next tenday on the road with no intelligent companionship.

[The Zubat squeaks in what might be objection, and Vierna diverts her glare from the camera just long enough to scowl at it instead.] Hush, you.

Is anyone else planning on leaving Violet City via Route 32 soon? If you are, I would join your traveling party.

C. Union Cave
[For all that she's now limited to seeing things in the visible spectrum - the horror - Vierna is instantly, visibly more relaxed once she gets underground. A little less flinchy, a little less defensive. It's good to have a stone roof over her head again and not that awful empty space of the sky.

And look, maybe you'd intended to head straight through. Vierna had intended to head straight through. But she'd taken a wrong turn, and that entrance to a lower level looks awfully inviting.]

Come on. There will be more formidable creatures deeper in the cave system, right?

[She sounds... well, maybe not enthusiastic, but certainly like she considers this a positive, despite the fact that she and her team are rapidly approaching the point of their current journey where a bath and a trip to the pokecenter should sound more appealing than going and looking for another fight.]

[1] Celadon City
It was... odd to battle using a true proxy. Astrid possessed the Warframes, she didn't give them verbal orders, so adjusting to little creatures felt pretty unnatural.

At least the little creatures seemed to enjoy fighting. It was a partnership, and it came naturally to them. Astrid was less of a commander and more of a navigator, steering these deceptively powerful monsters like one might steer a ship. One couldn't control the sea, but one could influence where it took them.

And so it was Astrid found herself trotting after her Cubone as it scampered up to what appeared to be a fellow trainer.

"Looks like Cambria wants to scrap, huh?" The Cubone hoisted her bone and waved it, bouncing on the tips of her toes.

[2] Network, Video

[As the video flickered to life, it spun a little bit before showing the face of a teen; she'd had to take a minute to orient the picture.]

Kinda primitive, isn't it?

[She was speaking quietly, to a Porygon that was hovering up by her head. The Porygon bleeped, and she turned her attention rapidly back to the screen.]

Uh, sorry. I was just wondering, have any of you figured out how to send messages back home? I... my brother will be worried. I can't let... he'll be worried. I want him to know I'm okay, haven't been kidnapped again, all that.

Edited 2022-03-27 23:56 (UTC)

a) network, video
These little creatures are really quite cute, aren't they? [ pictured: a weedle chewing on a stick, with shinobu's hand gently petting their little head. seems they like being scratched under the chin. ]

The horn and stinger are quite unique, are they not? I wonder what this wonderful boy will evolve into! Rarely can you tell an insect from their larval stage. Already the poison it produces is quite strong- for someone my size, at least! [ shinobu laughs, like bells in the wind. ] I wonder what could be done to make the poison even stronger!

b) slowpoke well, action
[ after the long travel to azalea town, it is nice to rest. shinobu is used to endless travel; nights, days, dawns, and more spent running, sprinting, even just walking towards a unceasing destination. be it the butterfly mansion, or a mission far north, south, where ever, shinobu is used to going where she's needed.

here, here gives her time to rest, to see the sights- and what sights! asking where to visit from the locals, shinobu finds a well, with little water still inside, but when she peaks over the cobble, she sees more of those delightful creatures rolling in the muck and grime. how adorable. not for the first time, shinobu wishes her sisters were here to see. they would be able to appreciate these circumstances far more than shinobu ever could.

the thought of kanae with one of these silly creatures, of kanao holding one close despite the filth, of aoi cleaning them vigorously. those girls deserve this kind of happiness. shinobu will simply live for them, in this world. pulling a berry from her sleeve, shinobu drops it down, careful not to hit any of the slowpoke at the bottom. she watches them eat, she smiles, and claps her hands together.

for her sisters, a prayer. ]

c) wildcard
hmu with whatever you want :)

Action | A Puzzling Premiere | New Bark Town

[It had been a long, and thorough conversation with Professor Birch, but in the end it had proved to be a somewhat(?) fruitful one. Professor Layton had a few of his questions answered, but only to find himself with an armful of more questions. From what he could gather, he was not the only one to suddenly apparate in New Bark Town, of the Johto Region. His tale of being suddenly thrust into Pokémon - “Pocket Monsters, as some referred to them” - ownership was not unique, and to that Layton felt a modicum of relief.

Now that he finds himself alone yet again - save for the Yamask carefully tucked away in his coat - he realizes that he had also found himself at a loss. Professor Birch had recommended he contact the local police, using the device known as the PokéGear, but all of it seemed so confusing. All the information, the loose ends and the spiraling mysteries of his predicament swirl around him like a flock of starlings. However, with a closing of his eyes and a slow draw of breath, he manages to right himself. Keep calm.]

Now is not the time to panic. [He assures himself, pulling a pen and journal out of his breast pocket.] Now is the time to compile information.

[Whenever a puzzle or a case was too complex, Layton always took the time to jot down his thoughts. One could never know when a stray idea would be the key to unraveling the Gordian Knot. At the very least, this could serve as a diary of events if ever he were to return home to Luke. The Professor is certain that the young man would have a multitude of questions, especially regarding the creatures here.

In taking a moment to scan over his notes, he catches sight of a particularly friendly - he hopes - looking passerby. Not one to shirk an opportunity, Layton holds on to the brim of his hat as he hurries over to the stranger.]

Excuse me! [He comes to a trot, then a gentle stop.] Do pardon me, my name is Professor Layton. [He extends a hand, the other still holding onto the brim of his rather tall top hat.] I’m rather new here, and I was wondering if I could ask you some questions.

Network | The Curious Correspondence | Text

(OOC NOTE: I wasn’t sure how ID’s were distributed so I used the example one.)

Trainer#5655403: RUINS OF ALPH LOCATION
Trainer#5655403: ALPH RUINS LOCATION
Trainer#5655403: SEARCH ENTER
Trainer#5655403: SEND

Edited 2022-04-01 07:38 (UTC)

A: Goldenrod City

[Flug is... very lost.

It's obvious at first glance - he's a lanky twig of a man whose knees are buckling at the surrounding crowds and unfamiliar creatures. And quite frankly, he sticks out like a sore thumb, head entirely covered by a large paper bag. A pair of metal goggles are strapped over it, lit up with artificial pupils that dart about, looking at everything. He's fumbling around in a lab coat, seeming more and more agitated as he outturns empty pockets.]

Ayyy, not even the-- where are all my tools?! Did I leave them in my other coat? Or Demencia's taken my things. Again.

[He still doesn't even know what to do with everything they gave him. If he could find his screwdriver, he'd check out the... the ball, whatever they'd called it. He continues to mumble to himself, occasionally making High Noises of Distress. He could probably use a hand...]

B. Network, Video

[The video opens on a blank, makeshift 'desk' formed by stacked boxes in front of a chair, in front of an open wall. There's a piece of paper, folded in half, forming a name tag. The name is utter chicken scratch, but the word 'Dr.' can barely be made out if you squint just right. Eventually, a familiar bagged head cuts into view, artificial gaze squinting as he adjusts the camera, before seeming satisfied and stepping back to his 'desk'.]

I swear, is it too much to want to find a decent cameraman? The conditions I have to deal with! [He clears his throat once he's seated.] Good afternoon, everyone. This is Dr. Flug, feeling...

[He... frowns? It's hard to tell without being able to see in his mouth, but the goggles seem built to be fairly expressive. It's definitely a troubled look, which doesn't match the words that come out of his mouth.]

... well-rested? It's strange. I haven't had any access to my cryo-bed since arriving here, yet I've had the best sleep of my life! Not a single nightmare! Is this some kind of natural effect of the world? Ha - simply too good to be true! It sure would be nice, though, to do some research. Figure out how to bring these circumstances back home and -- ah, nonono, I'm filming.

[A blurry pink and purple shape is what he seems to be chiding, as it hovers close to the camera, putting it out of focus. There's the sounds of boxes sliding around before he's back up close grabbing it.]

You're such a little troublemaker! Why don't you go lay back down in your bed? [He looks back down at the camera, cradling the creature close.] Sorry about them! Feel free to get back to me if you know anything else about this.

Edited 2022-04-02 05:27 (UTC)

LAVENDER TOWN - MAKING A ROCK FRIEND

[The cafes have been great. Being able to go in and sit with a new friend and enjoy your meal while it munches on a poffin? That's been the best part of randomly showing up in a new world, as those 'randomly hijacked to a new life and new job in a new world' experiences tend to go.]

[Which people shouldn't really have a whole lot of experience with that. But it seems like a lot of people here do? Which it's nice to have shared experiences but sheesh. Anyway...]

[The very best part, though, is helping out and there's a lot of that needed around here. Some of these pokemon have had a really tough time, and when Hunk sees a rescue party out trying to find an especially skittish stray with bad experiences that ran away from the shelter where it had been living and into danger he feels the need to join in. You've just got to, right?]

[He probably should have checked what a Geodude looked like before he set out in search of someone's wayward pokemon. He just gets caught up in the ferver of calling out 'Charlie' and hoping something comes out of the bushes. He's got a big heart and a strong mind he's just a little overeager sometimes. He's got the spirit. But it does mean that in the middle of shouting another-] Charlie! [-and some big round thing with beefy arms flees across the road, he shrieks in a not-exactly comforting fashion.]

[He's learned there are all kinds of ways for animals and people and everything to look by now. Just... you know... sometimes you expect legs and there are no legs!]

[So now there's Hunk at the edge of Lavender town, crouching down and trying to sweet talk a rock monster out from under a porch that he has no idea how it even managed to fit itself under.] Come on, big fella! I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I got a great poffin recipe to try out. You could be my first taste tester! That sounds pretty great, right? ...Someone help me out here.

MOO MOO FARM - OBLIGATORY KALTENECKER JOKE

[Hunk's decided to do a food run with some friends, and he's excited for it! Fresh ingredients, a bit of travel, a road trip across beautiful countryside. But he's pretty dependent on other people for rides since none of his pokemon are of significant useful size. They're all still pretty small and growth is slow going because he's not been eager to battle them.]

[They're just cute babies, right! It's sad to see the cute babies fight. Sometimes they really seem to want to, though, and then he lets them.]

Do you think I need a Miltank? I think I need a Miltank. How much do they even cost here?

[Because he would happily buy an egg and love it and raise it and yes, even battle it if it wanted. Just because in this new life he's briefly been committed to? It would be best to have access to sour cream and milkshakes at a moment's notice. One needs to pre-emptively prevent culinary disasters. Speaking of which.]

Okay. So there are plant-like pokemon. If there are vegans in this world, is the rule that it can't be a pokemon? Or that it can't be meat? Would they drink soy milk if it came from some kind of theoretically plant-type Miltank? What are the food rules here? This is crucial, need to know high priority information that I... for some reason did not think to ask until just now. My bad.

WILDCARD

[Open to working with whatever, prose or script.]

[A] Starting Out
[Well. That was disorienting. For a number of reasons, least among them being the strange woman claiming to be his mother. He politely played along, too stunned to really do anything else, up until he was shuffled out the door.

Goodness. That sure just happened, didn't it?

... Well, he supposes now's a good a time as any to take stock of what he has on him. It's... not ideal, he has to admit, but he can make it work. Hopefully. Well, he'll figure it out as he goes. He does take a moment to look over the PokéGear, but that's set aside for further investigation later.

And, of course, the last step is meeting the Pokémon he's been given. Once he figures out how to let it out, it's...

Well.

It takes a full ten seconds for the Slowpoke to realize its surroundings have changed at all, and it eventually looks up at Bucciarati with a quizzical "......... slow?"

Hm.]

... Let's get out of the middle of the street for now, why don't we?

[The Slowpoke does not move. This... this could take a while.]

[B] Gone Fishin'
[The good news is, it doesn't take very long to settle in! This place is... peaceful. It's nice. There hasn't been so much of a routine to settle into, not really, but that suits Bucciarati just fine.

Today, he's fishing--just at the National Park. It's a rather enjoyable spot. So yeah, there he is with his fishing rod, his Slowpoke by the water's edge has its tail dangling in the water. A recently acquired Shuppet lingers by his side, though it seems to be getting a little... restless. After just a few minutes too long, it'll dart off towards the nearest passerby to hassle them.]

Ah-- Bettina!

[Sorry for the sudden ghost-type all up in your space, passerby.]

[C] Oh No,
[Exploring the Burned Tower seemed like a great idea at the time.

In hindsight, it may not have been the best idea.

His Shuppet has been uneasy since they stepped foot inside, and not terribly thrilled to be here in general. Doubly so since the pair of them have been followed. By a very persistent Mimikyu. After a while, Bucciarati catches the Disguise Pokémon just to put an end to the following.

He's since let the Mimikyu out again for now.]

Alright... let's see what the PokéDex has to say about you...

["A gust of wind revealed what hides under this Pokémon's rag to a passing Trainer, who went home and died painfully that very night."

... Oh. Oh, he doesn't like that at all.

So anyone who also happens to be exploring the Burned Tower might come across an agitated Shuppet, an alarmed Bucciarati who's looking between his Gear and the Mimikyu in front of him, who's merely squeaking in confusion.]

Edited 2022-04-05 04:04 (UTC)

A) Network

[Sephiroth has no earthly idea where he is, or even why he is. Not only should he be long dead, but his head is...clear. The hissing rage, the seething insanity, the pervasive whispering will of Jenova...it's somehow all gone. Well...perhaps an overstatement. He has plenty of rage left, for instance, but it's no longer in control of him. But the insanity and Jenova do seem to be wholly absent, their absence the shock of having the background hum of the universe suddenly stop when one hadn't even been aware they were hearing it.

There is absolutely nothing comforting about finding himself sane again. He's traveled much too far along a path of bloody ruin; turning back to look at what he's driven through to get where he is now is unspeakable. The fact that this doesn't drive him insane, again, he views as some kind of punishment. Perhaps taking shelter behind mindless hate again would be considered too merciful.

Still, his practical nature wins out. The world has never once cared about his suffering - has far less reason to than ever, really - and he has no expectations for it to start. And in the meantime, he appears to be alive, somewhere he doesn't remotely recognize. And the monsters here are shockingly passive. He needs to do something with himself.

But he's definitely not attaching his face or voice to anything. He imagines he's attained a certain level of infamy.

The question is, which of the thousands of questions he has is the most pressing? What questions does he have that strangers might be able to answer? And how does he best solicit information?

He ends up spending quite awhile crafting his post, despite it being quite short.]

Would anyone be able to explain why everything seems heavier here? And why my senses seem duller than usual?

[There. He feels those are relatively generic questions, and comfortably vague. The simple fact of the matter is that Sephiroth has lost the inhuman edge to his strength and physical abilities he's accustomed to, and it's messing with his perception of...essentially everything.]

B) Goldenrod Department Store

[Sephiroth is not actually trying to attract any attention at all. In fact, he would vastly prefer to hide his identity if he could at the moment - but that's not possible with his current outfit, and...the change of clothes he was provided with. That requires going somewhere people are, inevitably, to find some way to be less conspicuous.

So really, all Sephiroth is doing right now is walking. Not even particularly fast, in order to let the little Cubone toddling behind him keep up to some degree. But the thing is...it's basically impossible for Sephiroth to not attract attention. Hell, he practically attracts crowds.

The clothes are a good place to start. The bared chest, the belts, the long leather coat over leather pants, the heavy boots. Then there's the waterfall of silver hair, or the literally glowing green cat's eyes. There's the absolutely effortless air of presence, a man who's used to commanding respect and armies alike, someone who is mostly unfamiliar with the concept of fear who has (up until recently) always had the power necessary to accomplish anything he sets his mind to.

And even if you set everything else aside, there's the fact that he's a positively looming 6'6". Literally head and shoulders over much of the crowd.

At some point, having had to slow nearly to a stop for his Cubone, he sighs and turns back to it.] This would go much more quickly if you would simply let me carry you.

[The Cubone, hugging its bone to its chest, shakes its head stubbornly no.]

C) Wildcard

[Seph's just going to be wandering around with his starter, observing and (almost definitely) holing himself up in a library at some point to do research on this weird place. Feel free to run into him anywhere! Except don't actually run into him, you'll probably knock yourself out.]

Edited 2022-04-08 12:29 (UTC)

Video; Outside New Bark Town

[The camera is set up to show a very tall, thin and darkly dressed man a few meters away, with a female Murkrow on his shoulder. He has a long length of twine with something shiny tied to the end: close inspection shows it to be a polished spoon. He starts swinging the twine and spoon over his head, getting some decent momentum going, before letting it go. He gives a sharp whistle, signaling the Murkrow to give chase. She snatches it out if the air easily, dropping it in his hand when he makes a different whistled command. This continues a few more times, each throw a different distance and height, the man even yanking the twine back once to force a sudden change of direction. Those that can understand Pokemon will be able to tell that Murkrow is loving this. Those that come from Fodlan will be able to recognize the whistles as pegasus training calls.

The man, Hubert, starts walking back to the gear, wrapping up the twine and talking as he goes]

Fasinating creatures. Their ability to understand and learn commands goes beyond any beast I've ever encountered before.

[he reaches his pack and puts the twine away, the spoon still in hand. He holds it up for the pokemon, but while she stares at it VERY intently she makes no move to snatch it]

Though I'm curious on how much of that is innate and how much is the machine they come in. I'm not interested in brainwashed loyalty.

[Murkrow makes an annoyed 'krrrr' sound at that, and Hubert turns to look at her. They stare down for a moment until Hubert appears to see something he approves of and nods]

Release.

[ and instantly she snatches the spoon, happily clacking it around in her beak as Hubert switches off the broadcast, seemingly satisfied]

[ Note for canon mates: Her canon point is late 2.55! ]

[ Roughing it. Roughing it was something that Minfilia was more then used to - even if she had gotten more used to not doing such in recent moons.

Yet, she had taken time to get her bearings. It was not that she was unconcerned with how she woke up - oh, she was quite concerned. But there was no sense panicking. She could not see danger right now, nor could she feel the gentle warnings of her abilities screaming that she had to move.

No, things had been okay, as she had set up camp across the first 'route', as they called it. Tarp strung so she could sit up, she had finally set up a video feed.

How amazing! That such things could be seemingly common-place here! That people could see and speak to each other. (She would need to learn more about it, before she was fully comfortable with everything that it involved.)

To those watching the video feed, however, it seemed nearly professional. The young woman sat, her Audino fussing around and foraging - there were still trees and grass and so very much around. ]

Hello - I do not know if anybody is listening, but I believe they should be? [ A pause. On one hand, she had to assess her situation - were others here? Was her first impression misguided. On the other, she had a deep burning question, one that she felt she should have answered as soon as possible. She was clearly not the first who'd arrived here - and perhaps others had wondered the same thing. ]

I must say... the creatures of this land seem to be quite intelligent. [ Spoken, even. ] Rose - my Audino - seems to understand all that I ask of her. [ Not simply understand, but... there was no sense explaining her abilities. ] And yet, she is expected to remain inside these small orbs.

Am I right to think that this is normal in this land?

[ Her next actions depend on what the answer is. The video ends, with her smiling - a hand over her breast.

However, notably, she does not give her name. Did it slip her mind? Or is she keeping it to herself, in order to be careful? ]

New Bark Town

[Okay Deuce is just going to completely ignore the weirdness that was waking up with this not-his-mom lady kicking him out and instead focus on the more important thing.

He has a Wynaut in his arms, looking around frantically for anyone who can help.]

Uh, is he yours? I found him outside that lady's house and he started following me...

Some Random Route

[Once again, Deuce is holding a Pokemon in his arms and frantically looking for anyone who can help. Today's 'mon? A Togepi.]

D'you know how to get her out of her shell?! She just hatched and she's stuck but it hurts when I try to get her out!

Route 38

[Deuce and his two Pokemon have been stopped by a Very Determined Miltank. He sorta glances at his Wynaut.]

There is no way you can fight that cow.

Wyyyyy.

You're a baby! It's a cow!

[No one ever said Mama Spade raised a smart boy, just a sweet boy. Someone stop him from trying to fist-fight a cow.]

A. Network; Video

[It’s been a few days since Olivia arrived in Johto, completely dazed and confused at being kidnapped from her basic Midwestern life. Traveling with an electric ghost, being told to battle other people in dogfights with sentient creatures…None of this is anything she’s mentally prepared for, thus the reason for posting on the network. Though communication with strangers isn’t exactly her cup of tea either.

The recording starts in a hotel room, her Pokegear resting against the complimentary desk, giving a perfect view of her space. Not a single item is out of place, the contents of her pack are sorted carefully on the desk, along with any new travel purchases. Don’t mind the buzzing Rotom swapping between the background and foreground, turning on the lamp, flipping the channels on the television set like the prankster they are.

Whether she’s getting ready to go out or has just come in from a long day doesn’t change her general demeanor for the camera, dressed in a well-kept suit and tie. Her voice is clear, words enunciated carefully as if she’s had experience speaking before a crowd before.]

Hello, members of the network. My name is Olivia Moore and it’s a pleasure to meet you. I apologize for the abruptness of this message, but I’m rather new to this place and was hoping to get a few questions answered.

[She rests one hand over the notebook carefully, still giving the audience her undivided attention.]

From my understanding, most people either become a Pokemon trainer or a Pokemon breeder, however my previous work history doesn’t exactly fall under either of those categories. And when I ask the residents of the city about scientific work, they don’t exactly have any good answers.

[It probably doesn’t help that she bombards them with death-related questions. Oops.]

Are there any undisclosed, paid research jobs in this place? Or is the means of income for a trainer simply beating up Pokemon in battle. It seems barbaric…

[Rotom buzzes loudly in the background. Hey! He likes battling, thank you very much. Olivia just sighs in response.]

Additionally, where’s a good place to find more ghost companions like Baal? He’s eager to have a few new friends.

B. Violet City

[Violet City isn’t the scariest place at night, though if you ask any of the local trainers, they’ll speak ill-will about visiting Sprout Tower once the sun has set. Rumors about an increased amount of ghost Pokemon haunting the upper levels, ready to steal the souls of unsuspecting people. It’s enough to keep away any promising trainers from the location, but Olivia is an odd case, absolutely fascinated by the stories of spooky creatures, and having a ghost Pokemon of her own sort of takes the edge off as well.

The mortician, pack carefully strapped to her back, gazes fervently at the well-worn tower doors. Having company is honestly more terrifying than any wild Pokemon…]

I don’t understand why anyone would be scared of a few ghosts. If anything, they seem highly intelligent for ethereal beings.

[If her creepy calm demeanor doesn’t dissuade, then at least Olivia is courteous enough to give whoever is nearby an exit strategy in advance.]

Do you want to come along? I’m hoping to catch a few of the rarer species this evening. Fair warning though, we’ll probably be out all night.

C. Wildcard

[Feel free to drop a starter here if you like :)]

Bruno | Encanto | ota

Rick Sanchez | Rick & Morty | OTA (cw: he swears. a lot.)

Sayori / Doki Doki Literature Club / OTA

Levi Ackerman | Attack on Titans

Senju Kawaragi | Tokyo Revengers

Ysayle Dangoulain | FFXIV | OTA