Team PKMN: In which I shamelessly crib from RWBY!
Unread postPosted: May 22nd, 2015, 1:53 am
by JamestheFox
So, I started a little PokemonTabletopUnited Campaign. Having done a PokemonTabletopAdventures Campaign for a few years with these same folks, I found myself kinda excited for this little run.
The basic premise is one of a world similar to RWBY, but with Pokemon. We have creatures of darkness known as the Pitch, which cover the world of man, who fights back with the light of the Sparks - elite warriors capable of amazing feats, and with man's stalwart allies, Pokemon.
This first session is the story of four individuals who together would become Team LIAC - Team Lilac! It is also the mindbending story of both GM and Players working with a system that's both similar and different at vital points than a previous system they've played some time ago! The inspiring story of a certain lone-wolf renegade *anti-metagaming* to keep off the necessary rails meant to bring the party together in a viable way, and instead trying to find his own adventure offscreen! And the harrowing tale of the closest thing to a healer the party has being nearly murdered! The heartwarming tale of one man's struggle against a roller so biased that even the GM it was being biased for cheered when the tables were turned!
Starring:
James the Fox, the GM of our little adventure. Ran an about 2-3-years-long Pokemon campaign in a different system that is very similar to this, but has major differences. Also draws things for the campaign. Plays the killer GM, but doesn't have the heart - he prefers to play with his food, but never eat it. But sometimes, the dice force his hand. Is the worst at coming up with encounters - either makes bosses that are too easy, or nearly kills someone using wimpy mooks. Is hoping for a non-angsty, mostly hopeful storyline about good people working for a good world, turning the tide against what was once an unbeatable evil (Spoiler - He doesn't get it).
Tempest/Storm: Played on the first of two teams the GM ran concurrently and in the same universe in PTA, having played a fossil-nut and later mecharm-guy who almost brought an eternal winter with too much curiosity and one near-fumble! Likely knows more about PTU than the GM does. Will write an essay on his character design and why, when the GM merely needed a basic description so he could draw him (:P). Plays Leon Kingsley, a poncho-rocking Rogue from the slums with a Sniper Rifle that separates into two knives! He is the closest thing we have to a Medic at this point. Uses a backpack Clauncher.
Drychanth: Was on the other team of the previously mentioned PTA campaign. Kinda nondescript and slow to post, but the GM loves him for being relatively moderate. Likes to type teh word the in a weird way. Takes on the role of Capella Cantro, a Joffery/Stark-mashup-looking Researcher/Ice-Mage from the north who survived a Mount Glenn-esque attempt to expand a fortification into a full blown city. Probably always pays his debts and remembers - winter is coming. His Swinub is named Stark, furthering the references.
Gamebrain: Another vet of the previous PTA campaign (he was on the same team as Tempest), having made a mark on the fictional region of Myneo as a nigh-god-like Steel Specialist/Aura User, outstripping everything the GM could come up with and becoming the posterboy for OP characters in that campaign. Occasionally butts heads with Tempest. Now he enters the ring as Iris Irengard, a... Magical Boy? Yeah! A Wind Themed Magical Boy with tumultuous internal conflict over having such girly powers! His Togetic encourages him to embrace the Magical Girl culture.
and last but not least...
Gman: Another vet on the same team as Tempest. Nearly killed the entire team on accident as a Pyropath. Seems to have a huge lone-wolf thing - constantly working to find a point where he can wander off alone! Plays An Kun Zhi, a Wuxia swordsman using a jian-Honedge to fight for... something ... when he isn't wandering aimlessly or brooding. Is only at the military academy to learn what some lady did to tick off his father... and because his father demanded he go.
(Note: I'll come back and make this more readable later. Tired now.)
Chapter One: Landing Strategies, and CAN'T SPLIT THE PARTY IF IT NEVER GATHERED
Edited Narrative Version:
The basic premise is one of a world similar to RWBY, but with Pokemon. We have creatures of darkness known as the Pitch, which cover the world of man, who fights back with the light of the Sparks - elite warriors capable of amazing feats, and with man's stalwart allies, Pokemon.
This first session is the story of four individuals who together would become Team LIAC - Team Lilac! It is also the mindbending story of both GM and Players working with a system that's both similar and different at vital points than a previous system they've played some time ago! The inspiring story of a certain lone-wolf renegade *anti-metagaming* to keep off the necessary rails meant to bring the party together in a viable way, and instead trying to find his own adventure offscreen! And the harrowing tale of the closest thing to a healer the party has being nearly murdered! The heartwarming tale of one man's struggle against a roller so biased that even the GM it was being biased for cheered when the tables were turned!
Starring:
James the Fox, the GM of our little adventure. Ran an about 2-3-years-long Pokemon campaign in a different system that is very similar to this, but has major differences. Also draws things for the campaign. Plays the killer GM, but doesn't have the heart - he prefers to play with his food, but never eat it. But sometimes, the dice force his hand. Is the worst at coming up with encounters - either makes bosses that are too easy, or nearly kills someone using wimpy mooks. Is hoping for a non-angsty, mostly hopeful storyline about good people working for a good world, turning the tide against what was once an unbeatable evil (Spoiler - He doesn't get it).
Tempest/Storm: Played on the first of two teams the GM ran concurrently and in the same universe in PTA, having played a fossil-nut and later mecharm-guy who almost brought an eternal winter with too much curiosity and one near-fumble! Likely knows more about PTU than the GM does. Will write an essay on his character design and why, when the GM merely needed a basic description so he could draw him (:P). Plays Leon Kingsley, a poncho-rocking Rogue from the slums with a Sniper Rifle that separates into two knives! He is the closest thing we have to a Medic at this point. Uses a backpack Clauncher.
Drychanth: Was on the other team of the previously mentioned PTA campaign. Kinda nondescript and slow to post, but the GM loves him for being relatively moderate. Likes to type teh word the in a weird way. Takes on the role of Capella Cantro, a Joffery/Stark-mashup-looking Researcher/Ice-Mage from the north who survived a Mount Glenn-esque attempt to expand a fortification into a full blown city. Probably always pays his debts and remembers - winter is coming. His Swinub is named Stark, furthering the references.
Gamebrain: Another vet of the previous PTA campaign (he was on the same team as Tempest), having made a mark on the fictional region of Myneo as a nigh-god-like Steel Specialist/Aura User, outstripping everything the GM could come up with and becoming the posterboy for OP characters in that campaign. Occasionally butts heads with Tempest. Now he enters the ring as Iris Irengard, a... Magical Boy? Yeah! A Wind Themed Magical Boy with tumultuous internal conflict over having such girly powers! His Togetic encourages him to embrace the Magical Girl culture.
and last but not least...
Gman: Another vet on the same team as Tempest. Nearly killed the entire team on accident as a Pyropath. Seems to have a huge lone-wolf thing - constantly working to find a point where he can wander off alone! Plays An Kun Zhi, a Wuxia swordsman using a jian-Honedge to fight for... something ... when he isn't wandering aimlessly or brooding. Is only at the military academy to learn what some lady did to tick off his father... and because his father demanded he go.
(Note: I'll come back and make this more readable later. Tired now.)
Chapter One: Landing Strategies, and CAN'T SPLIT THE PARTY IF IT NEVER GATHERED
Spoiler: show
James (GM): Alright, today is the day you join the ranks of the proud students of Glimmer Academy. You've been told to climb aboard a ship on the edge of the campus. As you remember during orientation, you're to undertake an Initiation Test. You're not sure what the nature of the test will be, but you've been assured it will be dangerous. The ship is a pleasure one, at first glance... though no ship capable of leaving the city is truly a mere pleasure vessel. The ship has a Pokemon Center aboard, though. Manning the counter is a redheaded young man.
Within view of that is a small smithy and repair area, just in case your weapons need fine-tuning. A rather rough old man with all of his limbs missing - replaced by prosthetic limbs - is hammering away at something or another.
Flaxen 5 News is playing on a big screen TV, chatting excitedly. Apparently, one of the High-Birds sired an egg recently.
Iris Irengard: A skinny looking guy dressed in a simple black shirt, jeans and boots, with a holster holding an oversized revolver on his left hip leans against a wall across from the TV, watching it idly. A Togetic that has apparently decided to make a nest out of his hair snoozes atop his head, which he puts up with in a rather grand display of long suffering.
Storm: A scrawny teen, barely larger than some children walks up the gangway, his feet making little noise even on the reverberating metal of the walkway. His torso is covered in a poncho, the pattern a mottled mesh of various shades of gray, and his pants are colored in the same fashion. His head is bedecked in a bandana, once again sporting the mottled pattern, though a few stray strands of hair escape its cover. Even they are grey, odd to see on such a young-looking boy. His eyes are wary and alert as he takes in the vessel. A lump at his back appears to be a backpack... until it begins moving. A blue-shelled head pokes out of the back of the poncho's neck, looking around with an equally cautious and assessing gaze as yellow antennae quiver slightly.
gman391: An-Kun Zhi waits against the side of the wall. His clothing seems oddly archaic, if somewhat reminiscent of old fashions long forgotten. He is in comparison to some others, robust looking if a little thin, dark black hair flows down his shoulders freely, only kept out of his eyes by a dark brown headband. Sitting on his lap is an odd looking honedge which seems to be surveying the area.
Capella Canto: A tall, wiry young man walks up the gangway while putting a book away in teh messenger bag at his side. He is wearing a dark vest long sleeve shirt combo with grey fur trim on the neck and shoulders of the vest,hanging from his belt there a a pelt, possibly from the same source as the trim on his other clothes, going farther down he is wearing long pants tucked into heavy boots. He is carrying a snoring Swinub under one arm as he surveys the area as if looking for hidden paths.
James (GM): Suddenly, the newscast shifts to reveal the image of Professor Root: a rather peaceful looking man, despite his position.
"Good afternoon, everyone, I am Prof. Root, Headmaster of Glimmer. I'm pleased to know so many of you have made it this far."
He pauses. "...However. I must warn you. While your accomplishments thus far are truly extraordinary, this is not an easy path to walk. Those of you here solely for profit should turn back now, pick a safer profession. Like police work. There is little profit in dying."
"Some of you have come because you seek answers to a question, deep or shallow, or wish to test your skills. Others are here because they feel it will... give them a higher cause to serve. And yet others are here because they believe that traveling the world will help them in some way.... And then there are those who are here because... Well, that's what they're here to find out. They're directionless, and hope that the lessons we teach here will clear them of this malady."
James (GM): "I say this now: this school cannot help you in these endeavors. Nor will Crimsoncloth, or The Tower. The things you have come for... are not ours to give. What you came here seeking, you must find and grasp for yourself. It is up to you to take the first step, whatever it may be."
Storm: The scrawny kid simply leans back slowly, the Clauncher that had been clinging to his back scuttling onto his shoulder as he sits down against the wall. The poncho rides up, exposing a belt of pouches, and a pair of what appear to be mechanized daggers at the small of his back. Both boy and mon's gazes are locked on the screen.
gman391 g.: Looking down at the Honedge An-Kun simply nods.
Capella Canto: Capella looks at Stark and rolls his eyes before sitting down and setting him down
James (GM): "If this does not bother you, and you still wish to walk THIS path... then we welcome you with open arms. If you can find what you seek of your own accord, then I'm certain the light you shine on your path will do well, faced against the Pitch black that haunts our world."
"We will be departing shortly. To all of you, whether you stay with us or leave, I wish you luck."
The screen flickers out, before returning to the news.
Iris Irengard: The white haired boy looks unsure of himself after such a speech, arms folded and staring at the floor. closes his eyes, and swallows.
"I dunno about this, girl." he says, the Togetic yawning as he shifts, then looking down at him. She chirps, patting the top of his head reassuringly. He smiles weakly.
"At least one of us is sure, huh?"
James (GM): In the passing minute before it departs, you see no one leave the ship. As you fly through the sky, the students start to turn their attention to each other. A fairly common topic is the weirdness of the Headmaster's speech.
gman391 g.: Looking around the boy shrugs. The Honedge somehow gives a look in spite of having no eyes, but An-kun offers a reassuring smile.
Capella Canto: The short haired young man looks at the Swinub at his side which has apaprently decided to wake up. "Looks like we are finally underway buddy."
Storm: The scawny kid kips to his feet, the Clauncher clinging to the poncho with the ease of long practice. Looking around, he walks over to the kid with the honedge. "Hey... you know if they got food here?" The teen's voice is a rasp, low and buzzing.
gman391 g.: In fairly soft tones. "No, I brought my own."
James (GM): "Ah thought I saw a fancy table with grub over there," A redhead with creepily bright blue eyes says through the hair bundled up around her mouth.
Storm: The teen freezes as the unknown approaches him, and the Clauncher has already drawn a bead on her, watching warily.
James (GM): "Er, uh. Dinnint mean no harm."
gman391 g.: An Kun looks between them a little bemused.
Iris Irengard: Iris slides down the wall to take a seat on the floor, digging in his bag as he does.
The Togetic perks up at this movement, and squeaks happily as he produces a plastic baggy of cookies. She hops down from his head, into his lap, and he laughs as he pulls one out for each of them.
"Yeah, I thought that'd get your attention. I need a little something sweet right now. And you're always hungry. Ya glutton. Heh."
James (GM): (There are chairs, by the way.)
(Desks, really.)
Iris Irengard: (Eh.)
Storm: "Not good to sneak up on people you don't know." The teen has relaxed fractionally, while the Clauncher has shut his claw with a reverberating SNAP.
James (GM): "Sorry bout that. Out in the farming district, it's only polite to help folks out." She scratches at one of her long, stone-like ears. "Name's... uh... Moonshine."
"Moonshine Anders."
Storm: "Leon Kingsley." The teen doesn't move to shake hands but his posture and facial expressions aren't hostile.
gman391 g.: "An Kun Zhi."
James (GM): "Nice to meet yeh."
gman391 g.: He nods.
James (GM): (If you don't have a good idea of what she looks like, she's a Carbink Faunus. Her hair gathers around her shoulders and lower face like a carbink's fluff, and she has their eyes and ears.
Storm: ahhh
James (GM): "So... ah... what'dya reckon the initiation test is gunna be?"
gman391 g.: "Difficult"
Storm: Leon shrugs. "Dunno. Big group melee maybe? Survival test? face down a bunch of Sparks?"
He shrugs and sits down on one of the desks. "Can't decide best way to react without info. No info, no point in making up scenarios. Get too worried, make mistakes."
James (GM): "They wouldn't sic a bunch of fullgrown Sparks on us, would they?" She actually looks panicked now.
Iris Irengard: Iris doesn't look up from where he is sitting, holding the cookie for Serena.
"I really doubt it."
gman391 g.: He shrugs.
Capella Canto: Capella gets up and heads over to teh group with his Swinub "I think even Glimmer thinks that would be overkill."
Iris Irengard: "It's an initiation. Not a massacre. Be kind of pointless to throw something we can't do at us right off the bet." he says as his pokemon messily devours her treat.
Storm: "Don't know. Just a possibility. Remote, but still plausible until more variables identified and discarded."
gman391 g.: "Strive forward, all you can do"
James (GM): "Ah... Ah guess. It's how Ah got this far. Hard work, honesty, and perseverance. Maybe thi-"
She's interrupted by the TV returning to the Headmaster's image.
"I'm glad to see you've settled in, but I'm going to have to ask you to sit at the desks. Your first lesson is about to begin." His is a face of mirth, like he's thinking of the punchline to a joke that hasn't been said yet.
Storm: "Variable one." Leon's face tugs into a slight smirk, as he takes a proper seat at the desk he was perched on.
Capella Canto: Capella sits at a nearby desk with his Swinub
Capella sits at a nearby desk with his swinub
gman391 g.: In a smooth motion, An Kun gets up from the floor and walks to a desk and sits down at it. The Honedge hanging around his lazily.
James (GM): "Now, we are passing over the Flaxen Desertscape, about a day's travel from Flaxen City itself. For some of you, this is your first time out here. It's a treacherous landscape. The Pitch travel along these sands like they own the place... which is a fair claim, though I would hope you'd be up to disputing it."
Iris Irengard: Iris rolls his eyes and drags himself to his feet, taking the first open seat he finds.
Storm: Leon is paying extreme attention to what the Professor is saying. It's actually a little creepy.
James (GM): "I'm sure you've been muttering amongst yourselves about the nature of this initiation test for a while. Let me clear things up. We will be dropping you here, with the simplest of tasks - get back to Flaxen City."
"It is by this test that we determine your skillsets, and how you will determine your teams."
gman391 g.: Raised eyebrow.
James (GM): "The contents of your team will likely shape your time here, and it is thus very important."
"That said, we will be conducting this by the most ancient of rituals - eye contact. The first student you make eye contact with after landing will be your first teammate."
Storm: Leon is looking apprehensive now.
James (GM): "WHAT NO OH GOD"
Storm: Leon whips around to look at who shouted.
James (GM): The professor ignores that outburst, and continues on his speech.
Iris Irengard: Iris continues to nom a cookie.
James (GM): "After that, you will continue as a pair, fighting through any opposition in your way. Eventually, you'll likely meet a second duo, thus completing your team. Are there any questions?"
Storm: "How are we being deployed? Jumping, or some other method?"
Capella Canto: "I have a terrible feeling."
James (GM): "Some... other method. Oh, and before I forget. There is a bag between each of your seats. It contains all the provisions you'll need for 24 hours in the desert. I would suggest you collect them now."
Storm: Leon's hand flashes out to grab the bag next to him.
Capella Canto: Capella grabs his bag and holds on to Stark tightly
gman391 g.: Tossing the bag on his shoulder, An Kun holds up his hand, and the Honedge slides into his grip, it's ribbon wrapping along his arm.
James (GM): "Now... off you go."
The roof snaps open, and your desks are ejected.
Iris Irengard: Iris slings his bag over one shoulder, and Serena latches onto the hood of his jacket. "I have a bad feelin-I WAS RIGHT."
gman391 g.: An Kun coils his legs in preparation for the launch.
James (GM): "AAAHHHHH"
"YEAAAAAAHHHH!"
"THIS IS MY FAVORITE PARRRRTTT!"
Capella Canto: "Welp, I was almost right." is launched
Storm: Leon barely had time to secure the bag, while his Clauncher had once again vanished beneath his poncho, before being launched. "THIS IS A NON-OPTIMAL METHOOOOOOD!!!!"
James (GM): You are flying horizontally now, in various directions, as you and your fellow trainees are scattered for MILES.
Capella Canto: Capella immediatly goes about the buisnes of slowing down
Iris Irengard: Iris is thinking about how this is the second time in as many weeks he's been hurled to his doom.
James (GM): Temp, you see a small, bird-like Pitch in your flight path as your seat disintegrates beneath you.
gman391 g.: An-Kun looks down and then towards Feng, Well this is going to be difficult. He waits for his descent to slow before putting his plan in action.
Iris Irengard: Who if any of us are headed in the direction of the city?
Storm: Gathering his legs under him, Leon pushes off of the seat of his desk as hard as he can... "SIMO, 47 DEGREES!" A blast of water slams out from beneath his poncho as Simo fires off a Watergun, aimed directly at the Pitch. The blast of water also has the added benefit of altering his trajectory.
James (GM): Gman, there's good news and bad news.
The good news is that you're headed for a oasis.
The bad news is that you will hit a tree if nothing is done.
Head on.
Game, you're headed for a fairly large sand dune. There's a oasis within view, and you can see someone flying straight for it.
Iris Irengard: No one is close enough to make out details, right?
James (GM): Nope. You can't see the city in any direction.
And Drych is heading directly for a cactus field.
Can you roll accuracy for that attack, Temp?
Storm: rolling d20= 6
AC is 2, so if it has an evasion of 4 or less that's a hit
James (GM): The water gun is a direct hit.
Capella Canto: "Ok, ok, I think I have an idea. See you in a bit Stark I need both hands for this." After recalling Stark to his ball he creates a block of ice to create drag and slow himself down and put something between himself and the cactus
Storm: 30 points special damage then
water typed if that helps
James (GM): It's a OHKO!
The Pitch disentigrates on impact.
Storm: Looking past the pitch, what can Leon see as his probable landing zone?
Iris Irengard: "HANG ON TIGHT SERENA. AND NO MUSIC DAMN IT!" He yells, and pulling his goggles into place, closes his eyes, mentally struggling to remain calm, and pokes an area of his being he likes to pretend doesn't exist if he can help it.
James (GM): Serena sings anyway. (Plays Raising Heart Set Up on Roll20's music player)
gman391 g.: An Kun swings the honedge around in an arc by the ribbon, before twisting his body to the side to avoid the tree proper. Feng the proceeds to pull An Kun down the tree with Shadow Sneak and return to his hand as the young man runs down the tree to the oasis.
He looks around to see if anyone needs help.
James (GM): An Kun lands safely.
And everyone sees a shining bright light. And hears girly music playing.
Capella Canto: "What the hell?"
James (GM): Leon sees sand. The shining light is directly ahead.
Capella slows his descent, and the ice wall slams into the cacti, destroying them easily.
Iris Irengard: Iris scowls as soon as it's done, and calls the wind to control his decent. He might not be capable of high altitude flight, but his ability to levitate allows him to easily turn his decent into a controlled glide, using the speed to cover ground quickly.
Storm: "Simo, 45 degrees direct, and keep the pressure high!" Once again a watergun blasts out, this time aimed at the ground. And it keeps on coming as the Clauncher attempts to slow their descent. Or at least dampen the sand enough to make the landing less painful.
James (GM): Annnnd Leon lands safely.
Capella Canto: Staggering off the remains of his landing pad Capella briefly looks around for anything else in the area before turning Stark loose again "Well, that was weirdly fun."
James (GM): With Iris's landing as a shining rainbow streak, everyone's made it safely to the ground. Iris simply comes to a stop above the sand, and plops the last few inches down.
gman391 g.: "Thank you"
"Hone"
Iris Irengard: The moment he hits the ground Iris kills the transformation, glancing around hurriedly in an attempt to make sure no one saw it. He pulls his goggles up his forehead, and pulls Serena out of his hood.
Storm: Leon carefully checks himself and Simo over for possible injuries, then shoulders his bag and heads towards where the bright light had come from.
Iris Irengard: "I hate you, so much right now."
She rolls her eyes, expression totally saying "Bitch, you love me, don't deny it."
gman391 g.: (Where'd that faunus go?)
James (GM): (Flung to the distant corners of the desert. Very. Very far away.)
Capella Canto: Stark looks around and snuffles the ground a bit before snorting "Swi." in a disapproving tone. "Yeah I know, you don't like the desert, or being launched out of a ship at high speed, I kinda have to agree with ya."
James (GM): (Though even she could see the transformation.)
(If you were in the desert, you saw the lightshow.)
gman391 g.: "Hone?"
"It's nothing...let's go forward."
An Kun stops for a moment to get water from the oasis before walking toward the city.
Iris Irengard: "...fine. But I'm still mad at you." The Togetic shrugs, and he sighs as he looks around. "Guess we better figure out where we are. To higher ground, I guess."
And he heads up the sanddune, hoping to catch some indication of the direction he needs to go.
Storm: Leon pauses to take in the surroundings. Is this desert flat, or are there tons of huge dunes?
James (GM): Gman, roll survival to try and figure out which direction the city is in.
Lots of dunes.
Capella Canto: brb
James (GM): (In fact, if you're not heading for a landmark I've given, you should all make Survival checks)
gman391 g.: rolling 2d6+2= 9
Iris Irengard: I climbed the sanddune you mentioned. Not trying to go anywhere, yet.
James (GM): An Kun heads off, following his best judgement.
Storm: rolling 1d6+2= 3
James (GM): (The lightshow counts as a landmark.)
At the top of the sand dune, Iris sees a rather demolished cactus field in one direction, and a distant oasis in the other.
Capella Canto: (back)
Iris Irengard: "Cactus or Oasis. What ever will I choose. Pfft. Come on girl."
He heads toward the oasis.
Capella Canto: Capella looks for landmarks
rolling 3d6+2= 16
James (GM): Capella can also see the oasis. He also saw where the lightshow landed.
Capella Canto: "I think I could use some water, waht about you Stark?" Stark rolls his eyes and flatly says "Swinub."
Storm: Leon is still headed for the lightshow's landing point
Capella Canto: "lets go then." Capella picks Stark up and starts walking.
gman391 g.: An Kun looks at something and shrugs. walking toward it.
James (GM): After a while, Leon reaches his destination...
Roll Survival to find any sign of the source.
Storm: rolling 1d6+2= 5
James (GM): Nothing. Though you do see the oasis and the cacti garden. Also, a sandstorm's riled itself up in this area. The trees in the oasis are blocking the worst of it in that area, though.
Also. Roll Perception.
Storm: rolling 3d6+3= 18
rolling 3d6+3= 12
first was Leon, second was Simo
James (GM): You see... creatures... working their way through the sand.
Storm: rolling 3d6+3= 13
Edu Occult
James (GM): They're definitely the Pitch. These particular ones are using the guise of Sandile.
There's a tremor beneath your feet.
Storm: Leon rolls to the side
James (GM): Nothing comes up where you were standing.
Storm: "Simo, target the closest." Leon reaches under his poncho and produces his blades.
James (GM): (Everyone can see this, even those who are just now walking into the Oasis.) A gargantuan... THING flies out of the sand.
Storm: (is it initiative time?)
James (GM): Far, far away.
gman391 g.: (Has wandered up to a tower without doors, and is trying to climb it.)
rolling 4d6+2= 9
James (GM): But getting closer. It's definitely a Pitch... bigger than a Wailord...
Some kind of serpent.
It roars, and the desert shakes.
Storm: Leon takes deep breath... and focuses on the problem he can actually deal with right now.
Iris Irengard: "Oh...screw that."
James (GM): Okay, Init in this is apparently down to just who has the highest speed.
Iris Irengard: Wait, are wwe all around this, or just him?
James (GM): No. Iris and Capella have just arrived in the oasis.
gman391 g.: rolling 3d6+2= 14 (Fails harder at climbing.)
James (GM): Alright, your move.
Storm: Leon takes his daggers and presses the hilts together. With a series of whirs and clicks, the two blades expand and reshape... until he's holding a heavy-duty sniper rifle. Bringing it up to his shoulder, he takes aim at the second-farthest Pitch-dile. "Calculating trajectory... fire."
rolling d20= 4
Clean Shot
AC is 2, does the fast Pitch-dile have evasion greater than 2?
James (GM): Nope.
Storm: then it's a hit. 31 normal physical damage before defenses.
James (GM): Despite the form it's taken, it seems especially unfond of that attack.
Super effective. (Pitch only pretend to be Pokemon, and often only have wonky Type Weaknesses)
Storm: ((pleasebedeadpleasebedeadpleasebedead...))
James (GM): It collapses... and starts to disappate.
Storm: "Simo, engage." The Clauncher scuttles down Leon's leg and then moves up a small dune to get a proper bead on his opponent, before opening fire with yet another water gun."
rolling d20= 12
30 points special water damage
James (GM): That's enought.
Iris Irengard: Iris trudges his way into the oasis, before finding a convienent tree to sit under.
"Alright, let's check out what we got to work with here, Serena."
Storm: ((target was the closest pitch-dile, just so you know))
James (GM): That leaves the last one.
It crawls up close... then burrows into the sand, vanishing.
Capella Canto: Capella arrives at teh Oasis and looks around "Ok, we dont have a lo of time before teh SAndstorm gets into full swing.Stark."
James (GM): Back to you, Temp.
Storm: Leon disassembles his rifle into dagger forms once again, and holds them ready. "Be prepared. Strike when it appears." Simo clacks his claws in acknowledgement. (basically both of us are holding action until the pitch-dile shows up again.)
James (GM): It pops up between you, spraying sand everywhere.
rolling d20= 20
What.
Storm: (Roll20 hates players and loves GMs)
(So, did it just hit us both with Dig?)
James (GM): Yeah.
Burst 1.
Storm: (at least Simo is taking standard damage thanks to Shell Armor)
(so, how bad?)
James (GM): Base damage is 19+18.
rolling 19+18
19+18= 37
Storm: (so that's 28+18. Shit)
(for a crit you double the damage base, not the stat modifier)
James (GM): (noted.)
So now it's your turn again, unless you're down.
Storm: Both Simo and Leon are horribly scored by the flying debris, but they both work through the pain, and attempt to kill the bastard.
rolling d20= 2
James (GM): Miss.
Storm: Leon's aim is off due to the pain and his daggers sink into sand.
rolling d20= 3
(point-blank water gun. AC is 2)
James (GM): Also a miss.
Storm: Simo's atack splatters harmlessly into the sand...
So, since those were held actions, it's Leon's turn again, right?
James (GM): Yeah.
that's right, held actions.
Wait.
Wait.
You're using two daggers, right?
Storm: (yes)
James (GM): Remember, you get to reroll using the offhand. (We had had this whole discussion regarding Dual Wielding rules, which are somewhat vague in the edition of PTU we're using, and somewhat silly in the newer edition, in our opinion. So we rulezeroed.)
Storm: rolling d20= 4
James (GM): Minus... 2.. penalty.
If I remember right.
But yeah, that's also a miss.
Storm: (so another miss either way)
James (GM): But you still have your turns.
Storm: Before Leon can attempt a second lunge, Simo blasts forward, surrounded by a corona of watery energy. (priority Aqua Jet attack)
rolling d20= 14
James (GM): And that hits.
It is super effective.
Storm: 23 physical water damage
James (GM): That after SE?
Storm: (no, base damage)
James (GM): 46, right? double damage?
Storm: (the multiplier happens after you deduct their defenses)
James (GM): 32 damage...
The Pitch growls at the hit.
Its menacing red eyes are filled with ire at Simo.
Storm: Leon stabs at the thing desperately
rolling d20= 20
HAH!
James (GM): HAHAHAH
Storm: 23 points normal physical
James (GM): That's plenty.
The last of them begins to fade.
Storm: Leon pulls out one of the bandages he'd brought along and wraps up one of the rounds the Dig attack had inflicted. "Need to find water, maybe shelter. Oasis best chance."
Pulling his poncho tight around him and stopping only to pick up Simo and settle the wounded mon on his shoulder, he begins to trek towards the oasis.
James (GM): Oh, also, take Sandstorm damage.
Storm: (how many rounds will it take to get to the oasis? Because Leon and Simo both won't last more than a few.)
James (GM): Moving carefully, you can make a Survival Check to avoid the damage.
Storm: (welp, I'm dead)
rolling d6+2= 4
James (GM): You've blacked out.
Storm: (I didn't mean that literally, I've got about four or five rounds till I get ko'd. Going to recall Simo so he's not damaged by the sandstorm.)
James (GM): Hmmm.
I'd say you eventually make it almost to the Oasis before collapsing.
Can Simo pull you the rest of the way?
Storm: (no, he's not nearly powerful enough, even scrawny as I am)
James (GM): Well.
Storm: (he's also got less HP than I do at the moment)
James (GM): Luckily, falling down like that means the sand's not going to hurt you furhter.
Though it might bury you.
Or a Pitch could come.
Storm: Or a wild mon could decide to pull the tasty morsel clsoer to its home inthe oasis
James (GM): Heh.
gman391 g.: Sword by his side An Kun returns to the oasis. (After encountering the giant serpent from earlier he finally fumbled his way back here.)
James (GM): Roll Perception.
(asking that of GMan, You guys can roll Survival to find a safe path through the sandstorm)
gman391 g.: rolling 3d6+1= 10
Iris Irengard: rolling 2d6= 5
Capella Canto: rolling 3d6+2= 7
James (GM): You guys are terrible.
Iris Irengard: I've lived in the city my entire life, and it's not like camping is a thing!
James (GM): :P
Luckily, Iris has Go Goggles, right?
Iris Irengard: He bought them because they hide his eyes when he's transformed. He had no idea they would be handdy here.
James (GM): Yayyy convienence
Capella takes 20% of his HP in Sandstorm Damage before the party finds a half-dead guy half buried by sand.
Capella Canto: I knew I forgot something when getting gear
James (GM): He can now roll another Survival check.
Capella Canto: rolling 3d6+2= 9
gman391 g.: Sitting at the edge of the oasis, An Kun takes a drink
Capella Canto: Better, not great but better
James (GM): Good enough.
Capella Canto: "I think we found him Iris."
Iris Irengard: "Alright, here, you get that arm, lets get his ass back to the oasis, and get out of this sandstorm."
He bends down and begins digging, working him loose from the layer of sand drifted over the top of him.
James (GM): You manage to find a safe way to travel through the sandstorm. On the way, you see that serpent again.
If you looked closely through those goggles, there's a single spear rammed into its side.
Someone fought that thing alone. It didn't end well.
Iris Irengard: "Yeah...screw that."
"I don't know about you but I don't want anything to do with that thing. Let's go."
Capella Canto: "Agreed."
James (GM): You eventually get back to the Oasis... and find some guy sitting there. Hey, haven't you seen him before?
Storm: Leon lets out a low moan of pain as he's moved. Sand is caked to a nasty gash along his torso.
Capella Canto: "I hope someones a medic."
Iris Irengard: "Barking up the wrong tree there, man. I mean, I've got some potions and stuff, and a bandage or two just in case but I'm not a medic or anything."
gman391 g.: "My apologies."
"I have a first aid kit, but no training for something like this"
James (GM): And of course the only Medic is the one to be nearly killed.
Well, the sandstorm's only getting worse out there.
And night is coming.
Iris Irengard: I thought we were back at the Oasis.
James (GM): You are.
I'm talking about outside the oasis.
So this is probably the best location to rest for the night.
Storm: (Medic? Me? LOL)
James (GM): (You're the closest thing!)
Storm: Leon's eyes crack open as he's dragged into the oasis. "Who...?"
He seems disoriented and weak.
gman391 g.: "Rest"
James (GM): (You are the only one with any points in medicine.)
Storm: "Potions in pouch with green buckle..." Just that much seems to have pushed Leon nearly to his limit.
Iris Irengard: "What good is that gonna do, can't use potions on humans. Screw it. We aren't going anywhere with the sand blowing around like that. We should probably bunker down here."
James (GM): (Er....)
"Potions and other Basic Restoratives can be
used on Pokémon and Humans alike to repair
damaged tissue and seal wounds."
(One "What the..." moment comparing PTA and PTU later...)
James (GM): Okay. so... after some time and potions, Leon is awake and combat capable... but has some wounds that will need time to actually mend.
Storm: Leon also uses one of his potions to treat Simo, and applies a bandage to the poor Clauncher's bruised and battered shell as well.
James (GM): So the group makes semi-introductions before falling asleep.
And with that... the folks you'll be spending your time at Glimmer Academy with are decided.
We'll see if that's a good thing or not.
Iris Irengard: I guess we can just skip that...
James (GM): We can go more indepth with it next session, if you guys want.
I just wanna iterate that something was accomplished.
Kinda.
After much finagling.
:P
Within view of that is a small smithy and repair area, just in case your weapons need fine-tuning. A rather rough old man with all of his limbs missing - replaced by prosthetic limbs - is hammering away at something or another.
Flaxen 5 News is playing on a big screen TV, chatting excitedly. Apparently, one of the High-Birds sired an egg recently.
Iris Irengard: A skinny looking guy dressed in a simple black shirt, jeans and boots, with a holster holding an oversized revolver on his left hip leans against a wall across from the TV, watching it idly. A Togetic that has apparently decided to make a nest out of his hair snoozes atop his head, which he puts up with in a rather grand display of long suffering.
Storm: A scrawny teen, barely larger than some children walks up the gangway, his feet making little noise even on the reverberating metal of the walkway. His torso is covered in a poncho, the pattern a mottled mesh of various shades of gray, and his pants are colored in the same fashion. His head is bedecked in a bandana, once again sporting the mottled pattern, though a few stray strands of hair escape its cover. Even they are grey, odd to see on such a young-looking boy. His eyes are wary and alert as he takes in the vessel. A lump at his back appears to be a backpack... until it begins moving. A blue-shelled head pokes out of the back of the poncho's neck, looking around with an equally cautious and assessing gaze as yellow antennae quiver slightly.
gman391: An-Kun Zhi waits against the side of the wall. His clothing seems oddly archaic, if somewhat reminiscent of old fashions long forgotten. He is in comparison to some others, robust looking if a little thin, dark black hair flows down his shoulders freely, only kept out of his eyes by a dark brown headband. Sitting on his lap is an odd looking honedge which seems to be surveying the area.
Capella Canto: A tall, wiry young man walks up the gangway while putting a book away in teh messenger bag at his side. He is wearing a dark vest long sleeve shirt combo with grey fur trim on the neck and shoulders of the vest,hanging from his belt there a a pelt, possibly from the same source as the trim on his other clothes, going farther down he is wearing long pants tucked into heavy boots. He is carrying a snoring Swinub under one arm as he surveys the area as if looking for hidden paths.
James (GM): Suddenly, the newscast shifts to reveal the image of Professor Root: a rather peaceful looking man, despite his position.
"Good afternoon, everyone, I am Prof. Root, Headmaster of Glimmer. I'm pleased to know so many of you have made it this far."
He pauses. "...However. I must warn you. While your accomplishments thus far are truly extraordinary, this is not an easy path to walk. Those of you here solely for profit should turn back now, pick a safer profession. Like police work. There is little profit in dying."
"Some of you have come because you seek answers to a question, deep or shallow, or wish to test your skills. Others are here because they feel it will... give them a higher cause to serve. And yet others are here because they believe that traveling the world will help them in some way.... And then there are those who are here because... Well, that's what they're here to find out. They're directionless, and hope that the lessons we teach here will clear them of this malady."
James (GM): "I say this now: this school cannot help you in these endeavors. Nor will Crimsoncloth, or The Tower. The things you have come for... are not ours to give. What you came here seeking, you must find and grasp for yourself. It is up to you to take the first step, whatever it may be."
Storm: The scrawny kid simply leans back slowly, the Clauncher that had been clinging to his back scuttling onto his shoulder as he sits down against the wall. The poncho rides up, exposing a belt of pouches, and a pair of what appear to be mechanized daggers at the small of his back. Both boy and mon's gazes are locked on the screen.
gman391 g.: Looking down at the Honedge An-Kun simply nods.
Capella Canto: Capella looks at Stark and rolls his eyes before sitting down and setting him down
James (GM): "If this does not bother you, and you still wish to walk THIS path... then we welcome you with open arms. If you can find what you seek of your own accord, then I'm certain the light you shine on your path will do well, faced against the Pitch black that haunts our world."
"We will be departing shortly. To all of you, whether you stay with us or leave, I wish you luck."
The screen flickers out, before returning to the news.
Iris Irengard: The white haired boy looks unsure of himself after such a speech, arms folded and staring at the floor. closes his eyes, and swallows.
"I dunno about this, girl." he says, the Togetic yawning as he shifts, then looking down at him. She chirps, patting the top of his head reassuringly. He smiles weakly.
"At least one of us is sure, huh?"
James (GM): In the passing minute before it departs, you see no one leave the ship. As you fly through the sky, the students start to turn their attention to each other. A fairly common topic is the weirdness of the Headmaster's speech.
gman391 g.: Looking around the boy shrugs. The Honedge somehow gives a look in spite of having no eyes, but An-kun offers a reassuring smile.
Capella Canto: The short haired young man looks at the Swinub at his side which has apaprently decided to wake up. "Looks like we are finally underway buddy."
Storm: The scawny kid kips to his feet, the Clauncher clinging to the poncho with the ease of long practice. Looking around, he walks over to the kid with the honedge. "Hey... you know if they got food here?" The teen's voice is a rasp, low and buzzing.
gman391 g.: In fairly soft tones. "No, I brought my own."
James (GM): "Ah thought I saw a fancy table with grub over there," A redhead with creepily bright blue eyes says through the hair bundled up around her mouth.
Storm: The teen freezes as the unknown approaches him, and the Clauncher has already drawn a bead on her, watching warily.
James (GM): "Er, uh. Dinnint mean no harm."
gman391 g.: An Kun looks between them a little bemused.
Iris Irengard: Iris slides down the wall to take a seat on the floor, digging in his bag as he does.
The Togetic perks up at this movement, and squeaks happily as he produces a plastic baggy of cookies. She hops down from his head, into his lap, and he laughs as he pulls one out for each of them.
"Yeah, I thought that'd get your attention. I need a little something sweet right now. And you're always hungry. Ya glutton. Heh."
James (GM): (There are chairs, by the way.)
(Desks, really.)
Iris Irengard: (Eh.)
Storm: "Not good to sneak up on people you don't know." The teen has relaxed fractionally, while the Clauncher has shut his claw with a reverberating SNAP.
James (GM): "Sorry bout that. Out in the farming district, it's only polite to help folks out." She scratches at one of her long, stone-like ears. "Name's... uh... Moonshine."
"Moonshine Anders."
Storm: "Leon Kingsley." The teen doesn't move to shake hands but his posture and facial expressions aren't hostile.
gman391 g.: "An Kun Zhi."
James (GM): "Nice to meet yeh."
gman391 g.: He nods.
James (GM): (If you don't have a good idea of what she looks like, she's a Carbink Faunus. Her hair gathers around her shoulders and lower face like a carbink's fluff, and she has their eyes and ears.
Storm: ahhh
James (GM): "So... ah... what'dya reckon the initiation test is gunna be?"
gman391 g.: "Difficult"
Storm: Leon shrugs. "Dunno. Big group melee maybe? Survival test? face down a bunch of Sparks?"
He shrugs and sits down on one of the desks. "Can't decide best way to react without info. No info, no point in making up scenarios. Get too worried, make mistakes."
James (GM): "They wouldn't sic a bunch of fullgrown Sparks on us, would they?" She actually looks panicked now.
Iris Irengard: Iris doesn't look up from where he is sitting, holding the cookie for Serena.
"I really doubt it."
gman391 g.: He shrugs.
Capella Canto: Capella gets up and heads over to teh group with his Swinub "I think even Glimmer thinks that would be overkill."
Iris Irengard: "It's an initiation. Not a massacre. Be kind of pointless to throw something we can't do at us right off the bet." he says as his pokemon messily devours her treat.
Storm: "Don't know. Just a possibility. Remote, but still plausible until more variables identified and discarded."
gman391 g.: "Strive forward, all you can do"
James (GM): "Ah... Ah guess. It's how Ah got this far. Hard work, honesty, and perseverance. Maybe thi-"
She's interrupted by the TV returning to the Headmaster's image.
"I'm glad to see you've settled in, but I'm going to have to ask you to sit at the desks. Your first lesson is about to begin." His is a face of mirth, like he's thinking of the punchline to a joke that hasn't been said yet.
Storm: "Variable one." Leon's face tugs into a slight smirk, as he takes a proper seat at the desk he was perched on.
Capella Canto: Capella sits at a nearby desk with his Swinub
Capella sits at a nearby desk with his swinub
gman391 g.: In a smooth motion, An Kun gets up from the floor and walks to a desk and sits down at it. The Honedge hanging around his lazily.
James (GM): "Now, we are passing over the Flaxen Desertscape, about a day's travel from Flaxen City itself. For some of you, this is your first time out here. It's a treacherous landscape. The Pitch travel along these sands like they own the place... which is a fair claim, though I would hope you'd be up to disputing it."
Iris Irengard: Iris rolls his eyes and drags himself to his feet, taking the first open seat he finds.
Storm: Leon is paying extreme attention to what the Professor is saying. It's actually a little creepy.
James (GM): "I'm sure you've been muttering amongst yourselves about the nature of this initiation test for a while. Let me clear things up. We will be dropping you here, with the simplest of tasks - get back to Flaxen City."
"It is by this test that we determine your skillsets, and how you will determine your teams."
gman391 g.: Raised eyebrow.
James (GM): "The contents of your team will likely shape your time here, and it is thus very important."
"That said, we will be conducting this by the most ancient of rituals - eye contact. The first student you make eye contact with after landing will be your first teammate."
Storm: Leon is looking apprehensive now.
James (GM): "WHAT NO OH GOD"
Storm: Leon whips around to look at who shouted.
James (GM): The professor ignores that outburst, and continues on his speech.
Iris Irengard: Iris continues to nom a cookie.
James (GM): "After that, you will continue as a pair, fighting through any opposition in your way. Eventually, you'll likely meet a second duo, thus completing your team. Are there any questions?"
Storm: "How are we being deployed? Jumping, or some other method?"
Capella Canto: "I have a terrible feeling."
James (GM): "Some... other method. Oh, and before I forget. There is a bag between each of your seats. It contains all the provisions you'll need for 24 hours in the desert. I would suggest you collect them now."
Storm: Leon's hand flashes out to grab the bag next to him.
Capella Canto: Capella grabs his bag and holds on to Stark tightly
gman391 g.: Tossing the bag on his shoulder, An Kun holds up his hand, and the Honedge slides into his grip, it's ribbon wrapping along his arm.
James (GM): "Now... off you go."
The roof snaps open, and your desks are ejected.
Iris Irengard: Iris slings his bag over one shoulder, and Serena latches onto the hood of his jacket. "I have a bad feelin-I WAS RIGHT."
gman391 g.: An Kun coils his legs in preparation for the launch.
James (GM): "AAAHHHHH"
"YEAAAAAAHHHH!"
"THIS IS MY FAVORITE PARRRRTTT!"
Capella Canto: "Welp, I was almost right." is launched
Storm: Leon barely had time to secure the bag, while his Clauncher had once again vanished beneath his poncho, before being launched. "THIS IS A NON-OPTIMAL METHOOOOOOD!!!!"
James (GM): You are flying horizontally now, in various directions, as you and your fellow trainees are scattered for MILES.
Capella Canto: Capella immediatly goes about the buisnes of slowing down
Iris Irengard: Iris is thinking about how this is the second time in as many weeks he's been hurled to his doom.
James (GM): Temp, you see a small, bird-like Pitch in your flight path as your seat disintegrates beneath you.
gman391 g.: An-Kun looks down and then towards Feng, Well this is going to be difficult. He waits for his descent to slow before putting his plan in action.
Iris Irengard: Who if any of us are headed in the direction of the city?
Storm: Gathering his legs under him, Leon pushes off of the seat of his desk as hard as he can... "SIMO, 47 DEGREES!" A blast of water slams out from beneath his poncho as Simo fires off a Watergun, aimed directly at the Pitch. The blast of water also has the added benefit of altering his trajectory.
James (GM): Gman, there's good news and bad news.
The good news is that you're headed for a oasis.
The bad news is that you will hit a tree if nothing is done.
Head on.
Game, you're headed for a fairly large sand dune. There's a oasis within view, and you can see someone flying straight for it.
Iris Irengard: No one is close enough to make out details, right?
James (GM): Nope. You can't see the city in any direction.
And Drych is heading directly for a cactus field.
Can you roll accuracy for that attack, Temp?
Storm: rolling d20= 6
AC is 2, so if it has an evasion of 4 or less that's a hit
James (GM): The water gun is a direct hit.
Capella Canto: "Ok, ok, I think I have an idea. See you in a bit Stark I need both hands for this." After recalling Stark to his ball he creates a block of ice to create drag and slow himself down and put something between himself and the cactus
Storm: 30 points special damage then
water typed if that helps
James (GM): It's a OHKO!
The Pitch disentigrates on impact.
Storm: Looking past the pitch, what can Leon see as his probable landing zone?
Iris Irengard: "HANG ON TIGHT SERENA. AND NO MUSIC DAMN IT!" He yells, and pulling his goggles into place, closes his eyes, mentally struggling to remain calm, and pokes an area of his being he likes to pretend doesn't exist if he can help it.
James (GM): Serena sings anyway. (Plays Raising Heart Set Up on Roll20's music player)
gman391 g.: An Kun swings the honedge around in an arc by the ribbon, before twisting his body to the side to avoid the tree proper. Feng the proceeds to pull An Kun down the tree with Shadow Sneak and return to his hand as the young man runs down the tree to the oasis.
He looks around to see if anyone needs help.
James (GM): An Kun lands safely.
And everyone sees a shining bright light. And hears girly music playing.
Capella Canto: "What the hell?"
James (GM): Leon sees sand. The shining light is directly ahead.
Capella slows his descent, and the ice wall slams into the cacti, destroying them easily.
Iris Irengard: Iris scowls as soon as it's done, and calls the wind to control his decent. He might not be capable of high altitude flight, but his ability to levitate allows him to easily turn his decent into a controlled glide, using the speed to cover ground quickly.
Storm: "Simo, 45 degrees direct, and keep the pressure high!" Once again a watergun blasts out, this time aimed at the ground. And it keeps on coming as the Clauncher attempts to slow their descent. Or at least dampen the sand enough to make the landing less painful.
James (GM): Annnnd Leon lands safely.
Capella Canto: Staggering off the remains of his landing pad Capella briefly looks around for anything else in the area before turning Stark loose again "Well, that was weirdly fun."
James (GM): With Iris's landing as a shining rainbow streak, everyone's made it safely to the ground. Iris simply comes to a stop above the sand, and plops the last few inches down.
gman391 g.: "Thank you"
"Hone"
Iris Irengard: The moment he hits the ground Iris kills the transformation, glancing around hurriedly in an attempt to make sure no one saw it. He pulls his goggles up his forehead, and pulls Serena out of his hood.
Storm: Leon carefully checks himself and Simo over for possible injuries, then shoulders his bag and heads towards where the bright light had come from.
Iris Irengard: "I hate you, so much right now."
She rolls her eyes, expression totally saying "Bitch, you love me, don't deny it."
gman391 g.: (Where'd that faunus go?)
James (GM): (Flung to the distant corners of the desert. Very. Very far away.)
Capella Canto: Stark looks around and snuffles the ground a bit before snorting "Swi." in a disapproving tone. "Yeah I know, you don't like the desert, or being launched out of a ship at high speed, I kinda have to agree with ya."
James (GM): (Though even she could see the transformation.)
(If you were in the desert, you saw the lightshow.)
gman391 g.: "Hone?"
"It's nothing...let's go forward."
An Kun stops for a moment to get water from the oasis before walking toward the city.
Iris Irengard: "...fine. But I'm still mad at you." The Togetic shrugs, and he sighs as he looks around. "Guess we better figure out where we are. To higher ground, I guess."
And he heads up the sanddune, hoping to catch some indication of the direction he needs to go.
Storm: Leon pauses to take in the surroundings. Is this desert flat, or are there tons of huge dunes?
James (GM): Gman, roll survival to try and figure out which direction the city is in.
Lots of dunes.
Capella Canto: brb
James (GM): (In fact, if you're not heading for a landmark I've given, you should all make Survival checks)
gman391 g.: rolling 2d6+2= 9
Iris Irengard: I climbed the sanddune you mentioned. Not trying to go anywhere, yet.
James (GM): An Kun heads off, following his best judgement.
Storm: rolling 1d6+2= 3
James (GM): (The lightshow counts as a landmark.)
At the top of the sand dune, Iris sees a rather demolished cactus field in one direction, and a distant oasis in the other.
Capella Canto: (back)
Iris Irengard: "Cactus or Oasis. What ever will I choose. Pfft. Come on girl."
He heads toward the oasis.
Capella Canto: Capella looks for landmarks
rolling 3d6+2= 16
James (GM): Capella can also see the oasis. He also saw where the lightshow landed.
Capella Canto: "I think I could use some water, waht about you Stark?" Stark rolls his eyes and flatly says "Swinub."
Storm: Leon is still headed for the lightshow's landing point
Capella Canto: "lets go then." Capella picks Stark up and starts walking.
gman391 g.: An Kun looks at something and shrugs. walking toward it.
James (GM): After a while, Leon reaches his destination...
Roll Survival to find any sign of the source.
Storm: rolling 1d6+2= 5
James (GM): Nothing. Though you do see the oasis and the cacti garden. Also, a sandstorm's riled itself up in this area. The trees in the oasis are blocking the worst of it in that area, though.
Also. Roll Perception.
Storm: rolling 3d6+3= 18
rolling 3d6+3= 12
first was Leon, second was Simo
James (GM): You see... creatures... working their way through the sand.
Storm: rolling 3d6+3= 13
Edu Occult
James (GM): They're definitely the Pitch. These particular ones are using the guise of Sandile.
There's a tremor beneath your feet.
Storm: Leon rolls to the side
James (GM): Nothing comes up where you were standing.
Storm: "Simo, target the closest." Leon reaches under his poncho and produces his blades.
James (GM): (Everyone can see this, even those who are just now walking into the Oasis.) A gargantuan... THING flies out of the sand.
Storm: (is it initiative time?)
James (GM): Far, far away.
gman391 g.: (Has wandered up to a tower without doors, and is trying to climb it.)
rolling 4d6+2= 9
James (GM): But getting closer. It's definitely a Pitch... bigger than a Wailord...
Some kind of serpent.
It roars, and the desert shakes.
Storm: Leon takes deep breath... and focuses on the problem he can actually deal with right now.
Iris Irengard: "Oh...screw that."
James (GM): Okay, Init in this is apparently down to just who has the highest speed.
Iris Irengard: Wait, are wwe all around this, or just him?
James (GM): No. Iris and Capella have just arrived in the oasis.
gman391 g.: rolling 3d6+2= 14 (Fails harder at climbing.)
James (GM): Alright, your move.
Storm: Leon takes his daggers and presses the hilts together. With a series of whirs and clicks, the two blades expand and reshape... until he's holding a heavy-duty sniper rifle. Bringing it up to his shoulder, he takes aim at the second-farthest Pitch-dile. "Calculating trajectory... fire."
rolling d20= 4
Clean Shot
AC is 2, does the fast Pitch-dile have evasion greater than 2?
James (GM): Nope.
Storm: then it's a hit. 31 normal physical damage before defenses.
James (GM): Despite the form it's taken, it seems especially unfond of that attack.
Super effective. (Pitch only pretend to be Pokemon, and often only have wonky Type Weaknesses)
Storm: ((pleasebedeadpleasebedeadpleasebedead...))
James (GM): It collapses... and starts to disappate.
Storm: "Simo, engage." The Clauncher scuttles down Leon's leg and then moves up a small dune to get a proper bead on his opponent, before opening fire with yet another water gun."
rolling d20= 12
30 points special water damage
James (GM): That's enought.
Iris Irengard: Iris trudges his way into the oasis, before finding a convienent tree to sit under.
"Alright, let's check out what we got to work with here, Serena."
Storm: ((target was the closest pitch-dile, just so you know))
James (GM): That leaves the last one.
It crawls up close... then burrows into the sand, vanishing.
Capella Canto: Capella arrives at teh Oasis and looks around "Ok, we dont have a lo of time before teh SAndstorm gets into full swing.Stark."
James (GM): Back to you, Temp.
Storm: Leon disassembles his rifle into dagger forms once again, and holds them ready. "Be prepared. Strike when it appears." Simo clacks his claws in acknowledgement. (basically both of us are holding action until the pitch-dile shows up again.)
James (GM): It pops up between you, spraying sand everywhere.
rolling d20= 20
What.
Storm: (Roll20 hates players and loves GMs)
(So, did it just hit us both with Dig?)
James (GM): Yeah.
Burst 1.
Storm: (at least Simo is taking standard damage thanks to Shell Armor)
(so, how bad?)
James (GM): Base damage is 19+18.
rolling 19+18
19+18= 37
Storm: (so that's 28+18. Shit)
(for a crit you double the damage base, not the stat modifier)
James (GM): (noted.)
So now it's your turn again, unless you're down.
Storm: Both Simo and Leon are horribly scored by the flying debris, but they both work through the pain, and attempt to kill the bastard.
rolling d20= 2
James (GM): Miss.
Storm: Leon's aim is off due to the pain and his daggers sink into sand.
rolling d20= 3
(point-blank water gun. AC is 2)
James (GM): Also a miss.
Storm: Simo's atack splatters harmlessly into the sand...
So, since those were held actions, it's Leon's turn again, right?
James (GM): Yeah.
that's right, held actions.
Wait.
Wait.
You're using two daggers, right?
Storm: (yes)
James (GM): Remember, you get to reroll using the offhand. (We had had this whole discussion regarding Dual Wielding rules, which are somewhat vague in the edition of PTU we're using, and somewhat silly in the newer edition, in our opinion. So we rulezeroed.)
Storm: rolling d20= 4
James (GM): Minus... 2.. penalty.
If I remember right.
But yeah, that's also a miss.
Storm: (so another miss either way)
James (GM): But you still have your turns.
Storm: Before Leon can attempt a second lunge, Simo blasts forward, surrounded by a corona of watery energy. (priority Aqua Jet attack)
rolling d20= 14
James (GM): And that hits.
It is super effective.
Storm: 23 physical water damage
James (GM): That after SE?
Storm: (no, base damage)
James (GM): 46, right? double damage?
Storm: (the multiplier happens after you deduct their defenses)
James (GM): 32 damage...
The Pitch growls at the hit.
Its menacing red eyes are filled with ire at Simo.
Storm: Leon stabs at the thing desperately
rolling d20= 20
HAH!
James (GM): HAHAHAH
Storm: 23 points normal physical
James (GM): That's plenty.
The last of them begins to fade.
Storm: Leon pulls out one of the bandages he'd brought along and wraps up one of the rounds the Dig attack had inflicted. "Need to find water, maybe shelter. Oasis best chance."
Pulling his poncho tight around him and stopping only to pick up Simo and settle the wounded mon on his shoulder, he begins to trek towards the oasis.
James (GM): Oh, also, take Sandstorm damage.
Storm: (how many rounds will it take to get to the oasis? Because Leon and Simo both won't last more than a few.)
James (GM): Moving carefully, you can make a Survival Check to avoid the damage.
Storm: (welp, I'm dead)
rolling d6+2= 4
James (GM): You've blacked out.
Storm: (I didn't mean that literally, I've got about four or five rounds till I get ko'd. Going to recall Simo so he's not damaged by the sandstorm.)
James (GM): Hmmm.
I'd say you eventually make it almost to the Oasis before collapsing.
Can Simo pull you the rest of the way?
Storm: (no, he's not nearly powerful enough, even scrawny as I am)
James (GM): Well.
Storm: (he's also got less HP than I do at the moment)
James (GM): Luckily, falling down like that means the sand's not going to hurt you furhter.
Though it might bury you.
Or a Pitch could come.
Storm: Or a wild mon could decide to pull the tasty morsel clsoer to its home inthe oasis
James (GM): Heh.
gman391 g.: Sword by his side An Kun returns to the oasis. (After encountering the giant serpent from earlier he finally fumbled his way back here.)
James (GM): Roll Perception.
(asking that of GMan, You guys can roll Survival to find a safe path through the sandstorm)
gman391 g.: rolling 3d6+1= 10
Iris Irengard: rolling 2d6= 5
Capella Canto: rolling 3d6+2= 7
James (GM): You guys are terrible.
Iris Irengard: I've lived in the city my entire life, and it's not like camping is a thing!
James (GM): :P
Luckily, Iris has Go Goggles, right?
Iris Irengard: He bought them because they hide his eyes when he's transformed. He had no idea they would be handdy here.
James (GM): Yayyy convienence
Capella takes 20% of his HP in Sandstorm Damage before the party finds a half-dead guy half buried by sand.
Capella Canto: I knew I forgot something when getting gear
James (GM): He can now roll another Survival check.
Capella Canto: rolling 3d6+2= 9
gman391 g.: Sitting at the edge of the oasis, An Kun takes a drink
Capella Canto: Better, not great but better
James (GM): Good enough.
Capella Canto: "I think we found him Iris."
Iris Irengard: "Alright, here, you get that arm, lets get his ass back to the oasis, and get out of this sandstorm."
He bends down and begins digging, working him loose from the layer of sand drifted over the top of him.
James (GM): You manage to find a safe way to travel through the sandstorm. On the way, you see that serpent again.
If you looked closely through those goggles, there's a single spear rammed into its side.
Someone fought that thing alone. It didn't end well.
Iris Irengard: "Yeah...screw that."
"I don't know about you but I don't want anything to do with that thing. Let's go."
Capella Canto: "Agreed."
James (GM): You eventually get back to the Oasis... and find some guy sitting there. Hey, haven't you seen him before?
Storm: Leon lets out a low moan of pain as he's moved. Sand is caked to a nasty gash along his torso.
Capella Canto: "I hope someones a medic."
Iris Irengard: "Barking up the wrong tree there, man. I mean, I've got some potions and stuff, and a bandage or two just in case but I'm not a medic or anything."
gman391 g.: "My apologies."
"I have a first aid kit, but no training for something like this"
James (GM): And of course the only Medic is the one to be nearly killed.
Well, the sandstorm's only getting worse out there.
And night is coming.
Iris Irengard: I thought we were back at the Oasis.
James (GM): You are.
I'm talking about outside the oasis.
So this is probably the best location to rest for the night.
Storm: (Medic? Me? LOL)
James (GM): (You're the closest thing!)
Storm: Leon's eyes crack open as he's dragged into the oasis. "Who...?"
He seems disoriented and weak.
gman391 g.: "Rest"
James (GM): (You are the only one with any points in medicine.)
Storm: "Potions in pouch with green buckle..." Just that much seems to have pushed Leon nearly to his limit.
Iris Irengard: "What good is that gonna do, can't use potions on humans. Screw it. We aren't going anywhere with the sand blowing around like that. We should probably bunker down here."
James (GM): (Er....)
"Potions and other Basic Restoratives can be
used on Pokémon and Humans alike to repair
damaged tissue and seal wounds."
(One "What the..." moment comparing PTA and PTU later...)
James (GM): Okay. so... after some time and potions, Leon is awake and combat capable... but has some wounds that will need time to actually mend.
Storm: Leon also uses one of his potions to treat Simo, and applies a bandage to the poor Clauncher's bruised and battered shell as well.
James (GM): So the group makes semi-introductions before falling asleep.
And with that... the folks you'll be spending your time at Glimmer Academy with are decided.
We'll see if that's a good thing or not.
Iris Irengard: I guess we can just skip that...
James (GM): We can go more indepth with it next session, if you guys want.
I just wanna iterate that something was accomplished.
Kinda.
After much finagling.
:P
Spoiler: show
In the beginning, when Man rose from obscurity, strong, ingenious, and resourceful, their world was a cruel, harsh place, determined to reduce them to ashes. Creatures of deepest evil surrounded them... Though Man was able to even the odds, for a time, using skills and tools of extraordinary power... they could not turn the tide that closed in on them.
But in their darkest hour, Man was saved, by shining incarnations of these monsters.
Though most could not speak, those that could introduced themselves, saying that once, they and Man had a long history, working together, fighting together, and living together. These guardian creatures said that in those days... Man called them Pokemon.
It has been many ages since that day. Mankind and their Pokemon allies carved homes, and forged towers and castles... and shone their light on the world, pushing back the Darkness that even now forms into twisted shadows of their comrades.
In the Flaxen City, there is an Academy dedicated to the defense of Man and Pokemon from the darkness. Suitable to their task of being lights in the darkness, Man has dubbed this place… Glimmer. Here, the strongest warriors, the greatest trainers, and the finest minds join to become Sparks, the brightest lights of Man… their most stalwart defenders.
Today is the day of Initiation, in which the newest students of Glimmer undergo a test to ensure their place among Sparks. A ship sits at the edge of Glimmer’s campus, and students climb aboard, awaiting the duty that will be asked of them.
The inside of the ship is a rather cozy affair, with several desks in the middle, a TV running the news in the back, and two services on the left side of the ship: a Pokemon Center run by a young redheaded man nearest to the back of the vessel, and a weapons maintenance station manned by a rugged old coot with all of his limbs replaced with prosthetic ones.
A rather lithe man in classical, flowing martial arts robes sits crosslegged on the other side of the ship, his long hair slipping down his back and a Jian-shaped Honedge in his lap. The single eye of the ghost type swivels about, almost as though tracking the area.
A scrawny, tiny teen walks up the gangway. His blotted grey poncho ceases to flap in the wind as he enters the ship proper, and he pushes a few strands of greyed hair back into his monochrome bandana. A rare spot of color – blue – pokes its head from under the poncho. One could be forgiven for mistaking the Clauncher as a backpack, until it moves about.
The two eye the location warily as another student walks past him, dwarfing him with his height. He sets a book back in his messenger bag, brushing a finger against the pelt hanging from his belt. The pelt is likely of the same source as the trim on his tank top and boots, into which his pants are tucked in. Destroying his image of cold calculation is the snoring Swinub he’s holding under one arm.
A skinny looking guy dressed in a simple black shirt, jeans and boots, with a holster holding an oversized revolver on his left hip leans against a wall near the TV, watching it idly.
A Togetic that has apparently decided to make a nest out of his hair snoozes atop his head, which he puts up with in a rather grand display of long suffering.
"In local news, pandemonium in The Roost Tower today, as a new Pokemon Egg was found in the Shock Wing."
"Why, that sounds absolutely shocking, Jill."
"Isn't it, though, Dan!? It's been 19 years since an event like this. The egg was found in the care of Ohm, the oldest of our Zapdos at 219 years old as of last week, and Rila, a local 7-year old Pidgeotto. Both parents are fine, though Rila appears to be rather tired from the whole ordeal, and Ohm is very protective of her."
"This May-December Romance is touching to the heart."
"Experts are saying there's a distinct chance that we'll be seeing another High-Bird coming out of the egg, and are definitely interested in how things progress from here. The lucky Pidgeotto's trainer, Zack, had this to say:"
"It's like, I really can't believe this! This is happening? This is happening. Holy cow- I'm, I'm just so happy for Rila. I'mma gonna be a grandpa!"
"People are flocking from all over Flaxen City to view the Egg, but the caretakers of The Roost Tower ask you to please not ruffle your feathers over this - there will be plenty of time to view the egg before it hatches, and we don't want to distu-"
Suddenly, the newscast shifts to reveal the image of Professor Root: a rather peaceful looking man, despite his position. The scrawny kid simply leans back slowly, the Clauncher that had been clinging to his back scuttling onto his shoulder as he sits down against the wall. The poncho rides up, exposing a belt of pouches, and a pair of what appear to be mechanized daggers at the small of his back. Both boy and mon's gazes are locked on the screen.
"Good afternoon, everyone, I am Prof. Root, Headmaster of Glimmer. I'm pleased to know so many of you have made it this far." He pauses. "...However. I must warn you. While your accomplishments thus far are truly extraordinary, this is not an easy path to walk. Those of you here solely for profit should turn back now, pick a safer profession. Like police work. There is little profit in dying.
"Some of you have come because you seek answers to a question, deep or shallow, or wish to test your skills. Others are here because they feel it will... give them a higher cause to serve. And yet others are here because they believe that traveling the world will help them in some way.... And then there are those who are here because... Well, that's what they're here to find out. They're directionless, and hope that the lessons we teach here will clear them of this malady.
"I say this now: this school cannot help you in these endeavors. Nor will Crimsoncloth, or The Tower. The things you have come for... are not ours to give. What you came here seeking, you must find and grasp for yourself. It is up to you to take the first step, whatever it may be."
Looking down at the Honedge, the lithe warrior simply nods, as the fur-clothed man simply rolls his eyes as he sets his Swinub down.
"If this does not bother you, and you still wish to walk THIS path... then we welcome you with open arms. If you can find what you seek of your own accord, then I'm certain the light you shine on your path will do well, faced against the Pitch black that haunts our world.
"We will be departing shortly. To all of you, whether you stay with us or leave, I wish you luck."
The screen flickers out, before returning to the news.
The white haired boy looks unsure of himself after such a speech, arms folded and staring at the floor. He closes his eyes, and swallows.
"I dunno about this, girl." he says, the Togetic yawning as he shifts, then looking down at him. She chirps, patting the top of his head reassuringly. He smiles weakly. "At least one of us is sure, huh?"
Despite the warning Professor Root offered, no one leaves, and the ship takes off, not a single student lighter than it was before the speech. The initiates turn and start to converse with each other, often breaking the ice with chatter about the oddity of the Headmaster’s speech.
The white-haired boy slides down the wall to take a seat on the floor, digging in his bag as he does. The Togetic perks up at this movement, and squeaks happily as he produces a plastic baggy of cookies. She hops down from his head, into his lap, and he laughs as he pulls one out for each of them. "Yeah, I thought that'd get your attention. I need a little something sweet right now. And you're always hungry. Ya glutton. Heh."
The scawny kid kips to his feet, the Clauncher clinging to the poncho with the ease of long practice. Looking around, he walks over to the kid with the Honedge. "Hey... you know if they got food here?" The teen's voice is a rasp, low and buzzing.
Looking around the boy shrugs. "No, I brought my own."
"Ah thought I saw a fancy table with grub over there," comes a somewhat muffled voice as a redhead with creepily bright blue eyes says through the hair bundled up around her mouth. Based on the rather dirt-stained pants, flannel top, and the accent, the Carbink Faunus hails from the farming district. The grey-clad teen freezes as she approaches him, and the Clauncher has already drawn a bead on her, watching warily. "Er, uh. Dinnint mean no harm."
The swordsman sits between them, bemused.
"Not good to sneak up on people you don't know." The teen has relaxed fractionally, while the Clauncher has shut his claw with a reverberating SNAP.
"Sorry bout that. Out in the farming district, it's only polite to help folks out." She scratches at one of her long, stone-like ears. "Name's... uh... Moonshine. Moonshine Anders."
"Leon Kingsley." The teen doesn't move to shake hands but his posture and facial expressions aren't hostile.
"An Kun Zhi," the swordsman supplies.
"Uh… Nice to meet yeh." She kicks at the ground awkwardly. "So... ah... what'dya reckon the initiation test is gunna be?"
"Difficult." An Kun says.
Leon shrugs. "Dunno. Big group melee maybe? Survival test? Face down a bunch of Sparks?" He shrugs and sits down on one of the desks. "Can't decide best way to react without info. No info, no point in making up scenarios. Get too worried, make mistakes."
"They wouldn't sic a bunch of fullgrown Sparks on us, would they?" Moonshine actually looks panicked now. The white-haired boy raises an eyebrow from where he’s sitting, and interjects even as he teases his Togetic with a cookie. The fairy grabs the treat from him, pouting.
"I really doubt it."
"Yeah, I think even Glimmer thinks that would be overkill," the fur-clad boy chimes in.
“Er, uh…”
“Name’s Iris. Iris Irengard.” The white-haired boy supplies.
“Capella Canto,” the furred lad adds.
“Um, nice to make yer acquaintance.
“Likewise…” Iris nods. "Anyway, it's an initiation. Not a massacre. Be kind of pointless to throw something we can't do at us right off the bet." The white haired boy says as his Pokémon messily devours her treat.
Leon shrugs. "Don't know. Just a possibility. Remote, but still plausible until more variables identified and discarded."
"Strive forward,” An Kun says. “ It’s all you can do."
"Ah... Ah guess. It's how Ah got this far. Hard work, honesty, and perseverance. Maybe thi-" She's interrupted by the TV returning to the Headmaster's image.
"I'm glad to see you've settled in, but I'm going to have to ask you to sit at the desks. Your first lesson is about to begin." His is a face of mirth, like he's thinking of the punchline to a joke that hasn't been said yet.
"Variable one." Leon's face tugs into a slight smirk, as he takes a proper seat at the desk he is perched on, followed by the other recruits.
"Now, we are passing over the Flaxen Desertscape, about a day's travel from Flaxen City itself. For some of you, this is your first time out here. It's a treacherous landscape. The Pitch travel along these sands like they own the place... which is a fair claim, though I would hope you'd be up to disputing it… Now, I'm sure you've been muttering amongst yourselves about the nature of this initiation test for a while. Let me clear things up. We will be dropping you here, with the simplest of tasks - get back to Flaxen City. It is by this test that we determine your skillsets, and how you will determine your teams.”
An Kun raises an eyebrow, as Capella pays almost insane attention to the Headmaster.
"The contents of your team will likely shape your time here, and it is thus very important…” He smiles at a dramatic pause. "That said, we will be conducting this by the most ancient of rituals - eye contact. The first student you make eye contact with after landing will be your first teammate."
"WHAT NO OH GOD!" cries a student in the back, drawing some attention to him. The professor ignores that outburst, and continues on his speech, and Iris nonchalantly works on a cookie.
"After that, you will continue as a pair, fighting through any opposition in your way. Eventually, you'll likely meet a second duo, thus completing your team. Are there any questions?"
"How are we being deployed? Jumping, or some other method?" Leon asks.
"I have a terrible feeling,” Capella notes as the Headmaster’s grin widens a little.
"Some... other method. Oh, and before I forget. There is a bag between each of your seats. It contains all the provisions you'll need for 24 hours in the desert. I would suggest you collect them now." There is a quick shuffling as most of the students immediately grab for the bags. "Now... off you go."
Iris slings his bag over one shoulder, and Serena latches onto the hood of his jacket. "I have a bad feelin-“
The sensation of the Spark Wonder Launcher activating is immediate, as the roof opens and the desks are launched in several directions at several hundred miles per hour, the weak materials disintegrating under the feet of the Sparks-to-be as they prepare to leap into action.
“I WAS RIGHT!” Choruses Iris and Capella as they are sent flying at absurd speeds – the kind that most humans couldn’t hope to survive. “HANG ON, SERENA! AND NO SINGING!”
"THIS IS A NON-OPTIMAL METHOOOOOOD!!!!" Leon screams.
------------------------
"Ok, ok, I think I have an idea. See you in a bit, Stark. I need both hands for this." Capella returns his Pokemon to the Pokeball and starts the process of slowing himself down, summoning walls of ice and leaping to them, riding the last and largest one down, slamming into and cutting a path of destruction through a small field of cacti, covering what isn’t destroyed in powder snow. He surveys the damage he’s caused as he releases Stark. "…Well, that was weirdly fun." Stark looks around and snuffles the ground a bit before snorting in a disapproving tone. "Yeah I know, you don't like the desert, or being launched out of a ship at high speed, I kinda have to agree with ya."
Meanwhile, An Kun swings his Honedge by the ribbon, spinning in an arc and slowing his descent enough for him to land safely on a tree in an oasis, the Honedge embedded about the trunk. It lasts only a second, though, as the spirit blade pulls the two of them down to earth safely in a shadowy blur. “… Thanks, Feng Yin.”
“Hooone.”
---------------
Leon leaps from his desk at the last minute, his Clauncher clinging to him as he sees some kind of small, bird-like Pitch flying in his path. “Simo! 47 degrees!” The Pokemon shoots a single blast of water, which is moving at such speeds that it’s steaming, and vaporizes the Pitch with a single blow. He grits his teeth. "Simo, 45 degrees direct, and keep the pressure high!" This time, the water that comes is a single large stream, which dampens the sand and slows Leon’s descent. “… Whew.”
---------------
Iris pulls his goggles into place, closing his eyes as he pokes at a piece of his being that… he’d really rather pretend doesn’t exist, as despite his request his Pokemon begins to sing… His clothes explode into a maelstrom of light and color, his body a sparkling silhouette. The lights that were his clothes form into wings, which gather themselves closed around him protectively, the places they touch becoming covered in pants, boots, a shirt, and a bomber jacket. The wings then spread out, forming into the twin tails of a scarf that appears to be made from rainbows.
With a spin, the silhouette effect explodes away, though his hair billows in a wind completely separate from the gale force winds blowing in his face, shining and shifting in waves between seven colors. He gathers the wind about his legs, slowing his descent to a mere crawl, landing easily on the ground. “Hope no one saw that…” He turns towards his Togetic, who has just now finished singing. "I hate you, so much right now." She rolls her eyes and gives him a teasing smirk. "...Fine. But I'm still mad at you." The Togetic shrugs, and he sighs as he looks around. "Guess we better figure out where we are. To higher ground, I guess." He heads up the sanddune, hoping to catch some indication of the direction he needs to go.
At the top of the sand dune, Iris sees a rather demolished cactus field in one direction, and a distant oasis in the other. "Cactus or Oasis. What ever will I choose… Pfft. Come on girl."
He heads toward the oasis.
----------------------
Leon stares as the lightshow vanishes, then carefully checks himself and Simo over for possible injuries. Content that he and his Pokemon are safe, he shoulders his bag and heads towards where the bright light had landed.
------------------
"Hone?" Feng Yin blinks as An Kun looks at the sparkling lights vanish.
"It's nothing...let's go forward." An Kun stops for a moment to get water from the oasis heading out, not entirely sure where the city is in relation to the oasis.
----------------
Capella looks about, seeing a distant Oasis. He then turns his gaze to where the lightshow ended… and pauses. Pitch are heading in that direction. Figures… Worse still, it looks like a sandstorm is starting up. Of course. Luckily, the Oasis is forested enough to shield from the worst of the sand. He smirks.
"I think I could use some water, what about you Stark?"
Stark rolls his eyes and flatly says "Swinub."
"Lets go then." Capella picks Stark up and starts walking.
-------
Leon arrives at the sand dune where the light landed, and takes a look around… Unfortunately the desert sands have shifted too much for him to tell where the source of the light went. A destroyed cactus garden, soaked with drying water, sits in one direction, and in the other is a Oasis. He shudders as a sandstorm reaches his location. “Ugh.” He then notices several tiny, crocodile like creatures lurking towards him, scales black as night, red eyes glowing and piercing the sandstorm. “Pitch… pretending to be Sandile.” A tremor shakes the desert, and Leon reflexively jumps to the side. “… Nothing? Then what…”
In the distance, a giant serpent bursts from the ground, larger than even a Wailord, its roar shaking the desertscape.
Leon stares, taking a deep breath as it uses its momentum to fly through the air before gravity finally brings it back down. “… Better to focus on what’s in front of me. That thing’s too far away for now.” He focuses his attention on the Pitch before him. Leon takes his daggers and presses the hilts together. With a series of whirs and clicks, the two blades expand and reshape... until he's holding a heavy-duty sniper rifle. Bringing it up to his shoulder, he takes aim at the second-farthest Pitch-dile. "Calculating trajectory... fire."
------------
Iris trudges his way into the oasis, before finding a convenient tree to sit under. "Alright, let's check out what we got to work with here, Serena."
As he checks his supplies, someone turns round the corner, and the two lock eyes.
"Hello."
Iris blinks, before looking up from the bag he'd been digging through.
"Oh. Uh. Hey."
"You have a partner?"
"I do now, I guess. You’re… Capella, right?”
“Yeah. Iris?”
“Yeah. This is Serena. "
He indicates the Pokémon once more nesting on top of his head, then goes back to digging around in the pack, seeing what all is in there.
"This guy is Stark." Stark is settled on Capella’s head, snoozing as usual.
"Nice to meet you guys. So...I don't suppose you have any idea which was the city is, do you?"
Capella starts going through the supply bag as well. "Not at the moment."
Suddenly, a loud shot pierces the sounds of the sandstorm.
"Well that isn’t good."
"That sounded pretty close… I dunno, what do you think? Should we check it out?"
"Would feel better knowing whoever is shooting is okay."
"I have no idea where we are. Unless you've got any ideas, might be a good idea. Safer in numbers and all - what the hell was that."
"Something way above our pay grade."
Iris quickly repacks his bag and slings it over his shoulder. "God. Okay, as much as I really don't want to know what that was, someone was over there. We better check it out."
"Figured that was the plan."
----------------------
An Kun sighs as he trudges through slightly less sandy dunes.
“Hone.”
“I know.” He peers about, gaining his bearings, and sees a tower in the distance. “Worth a shot.”
Upon closer inspection, the tower has no doors, and there doesn’t seem to be anyone at the top of the tower. An Kun tries to climb it a few times… only to slide back down. The second attempt goes worse, with him falling on his back, eliciting a grunt of pain.
“Hoooonnnee.”
“… You’re right.” He turns to leave… only to walk right into a sandstorm. “… Okay, that’s not my fault.”
The desert rumbles, and he sees a giant serpent rise from the desert, launching itself through the air and landing elsewhere.
“Hooone.”
“… Okay, maybe a little.” He shrugs, and continues his wandering.
A few hours later see him observing a cactus that he’s sure he’s seen before.
"Hone."
"If you have a better idea…" He’s cut off by another tremble, seeing the giant Pitch. “… It’s coming.” It is all he can do to block the attack with an application of mystic defensive energy, as the beast causes a shockwave with its descent, burrowing into the ground once more and sending him flying a great distance. As the dust settles, he rights himself and lands safely. “… Now where am I…?” He looks about, and sees a very familiar Oasis.
"Honnnnneeeee."
"...I know."
----------------
“Good job,” Leon says as all but the last of the Pitch fall. The last one looks at him warily, before vanishing into the sand below. Leon disassembles his rifle into dagger forms once again, and holds them ready. "Be prepared. Strike when it appears." Simo clacks his claws in acknowledgement, sitting near Leon.
Suddenly, the creature bursts from the ground, spraying razor-sharp sand everywhere, cutting deeply into both Leon and Simo.
“Gh…” Leon swipes with his knives, but the creature weaves as it falls, dodging both strikes. Simo launches itself into an Aqua Jet, its claw smashing into the crocodile and slamming it into the ground. With a desperate cry, Leon stabs his blades downwards, piercing the Pitch in what would be its heart, if it were truly a living creature. It cries out, before going limp and beginning to disintegrate.
Leon grimaces as he bandages himself and Simo up. “…Need to find water, maybe shelter. Oasis best chance."
Pulling his poncho tight around him and stopping only to pick up Simo recall him to his Pokeball, he begins working through the sandstorm. It’s a hard trek, with the sand beating down on him, and just when he’s almost there… he collapses. As the sand begins to cover him up, the last thing he sees is two figures walking up to him…
"I think we found him Iris."
"Alright, here, you get that arm, let’s get his ass back to the oasis, and get out of this sandstorm."
-----------------
On the way back to the Oasis, Iris and Capella see the source of the giant roar – a giant serpent. It appears to have done battle with someone… judging by the bloody weapon even now embedded in its skin, the fight didn’t go well for the attacker… after all, Pitch don’t bleed.
"Yeah...screw that." Iris mutters. "I don't know about you but I don't want anything to do with that thing. Let's go."
"Agreed."
The two make it back to the Oasis, only to find someone waiting for them.
“You… An Kun, right?”
“Yeah.”
Leon moans in pain.
"I hope someone’s a medic," Capella mutters.
"Barking up the wrong tree there, man.” Iris says. “I mean, I've got some potions and stuff, and a bandage or two just in case but I'm not a medic or anything."
An Kun shakes his head. "My apologies. I have a first aid kit, but no training for something like this"
Leon's eyes crack open as he’s lain down. "Who...?"
"Rest," An Kun chides.
"… Potions in… pouch with green… buckle..." Leon manages.
“Right.” They get to work.
But in their darkest hour, Man was saved, by shining incarnations of these monsters.
Though most could not speak, those that could introduced themselves, saying that once, they and Man had a long history, working together, fighting together, and living together. These guardian creatures said that in those days... Man called them Pokemon.
It has been many ages since that day. Mankind and their Pokemon allies carved homes, and forged towers and castles... and shone their light on the world, pushing back the Darkness that even now forms into twisted shadows of their comrades.
In the Flaxen City, there is an Academy dedicated to the defense of Man and Pokemon from the darkness. Suitable to their task of being lights in the darkness, Man has dubbed this place… Glimmer. Here, the strongest warriors, the greatest trainers, and the finest minds join to become Sparks, the brightest lights of Man… their most stalwart defenders.
Today is the day of Initiation, in which the newest students of Glimmer undergo a test to ensure their place among Sparks. A ship sits at the edge of Glimmer’s campus, and students climb aboard, awaiting the duty that will be asked of them.
The inside of the ship is a rather cozy affair, with several desks in the middle, a TV running the news in the back, and two services on the left side of the ship: a Pokemon Center run by a young redheaded man nearest to the back of the vessel, and a weapons maintenance station manned by a rugged old coot with all of his limbs replaced with prosthetic ones.
A rather lithe man in classical, flowing martial arts robes sits crosslegged on the other side of the ship, his long hair slipping down his back and a Jian-shaped Honedge in his lap. The single eye of the ghost type swivels about, almost as though tracking the area.
A scrawny, tiny teen walks up the gangway. His blotted grey poncho ceases to flap in the wind as he enters the ship proper, and he pushes a few strands of greyed hair back into his monochrome bandana. A rare spot of color – blue – pokes its head from under the poncho. One could be forgiven for mistaking the Clauncher as a backpack, until it moves about.
The two eye the location warily as another student walks past him, dwarfing him with his height. He sets a book back in his messenger bag, brushing a finger against the pelt hanging from his belt. The pelt is likely of the same source as the trim on his tank top and boots, into which his pants are tucked in. Destroying his image of cold calculation is the snoring Swinub he’s holding under one arm.
A skinny looking guy dressed in a simple black shirt, jeans and boots, with a holster holding an oversized revolver on his left hip leans against a wall near the TV, watching it idly.
A Togetic that has apparently decided to make a nest out of his hair snoozes atop his head, which he puts up with in a rather grand display of long suffering.
"In local news, pandemonium in The Roost Tower today, as a new Pokemon Egg was found in the Shock Wing."
"Why, that sounds absolutely shocking, Jill."
"Isn't it, though, Dan!? It's been 19 years since an event like this. The egg was found in the care of Ohm, the oldest of our Zapdos at 219 years old as of last week, and Rila, a local 7-year old Pidgeotto. Both parents are fine, though Rila appears to be rather tired from the whole ordeal, and Ohm is very protective of her."
"This May-December Romance is touching to the heart."
"Experts are saying there's a distinct chance that we'll be seeing another High-Bird coming out of the egg, and are definitely interested in how things progress from here. The lucky Pidgeotto's trainer, Zack, had this to say:"
"It's like, I really can't believe this! This is happening? This is happening. Holy cow- I'm, I'm just so happy for Rila. I'mma gonna be a grandpa!"
"People are flocking from all over Flaxen City to view the Egg, but the caretakers of The Roost Tower ask you to please not ruffle your feathers over this - there will be plenty of time to view the egg before it hatches, and we don't want to distu-"
Suddenly, the newscast shifts to reveal the image of Professor Root: a rather peaceful looking man, despite his position. The scrawny kid simply leans back slowly, the Clauncher that had been clinging to his back scuttling onto his shoulder as he sits down against the wall. The poncho rides up, exposing a belt of pouches, and a pair of what appear to be mechanized daggers at the small of his back. Both boy and mon's gazes are locked on the screen.
"Good afternoon, everyone, I am Prof. Root, Headmaster of Glimmer. I'm pleased to know so many of you have made it this far." He pauses. "...However. I must warn you. While your accomplishments thus far are truly extraordinary, this is not an easy path to walk. Those of you here solely for profit should turn back now, pick a safer profession. Like police work. There is little profit in dying.
"Some of you have come because you seek answers to a question, deep or shallow, or wish to test your skills. Others are here because they feel it will... give them a higher cause to serve. And yet others are here because they believe that traveling the world will help them in some way.... And then there are those who are here because... Well, that's what they're here to find out. They're directionless, and hope that the lessons we teach here will clear them of this malady.
"I say this now: this school cannot help you in these endeavors. Nor will Crimsoncloth, or The Tower. The things you have come for... are not ours to give. What you came here seeking, you must find and grasp for yourself. It is up to you to take the first step, whatever it may be."
Looking down at the Honedge, the lithe warrior simply nods, as the fur-clothed man simply rolls his eyes as he sets his Swinub down.
"If this does not bother you, and you still wish to walk THIS path... then we welcome you with open arms. If you can find what you seek of your own accord, then I'm certain the light you shine on your path will do well, faced against the Pitch black that haunts our world.
"We will be departing shortly. To all of you, whether you stay with us or leave, I wish you luck."
The screen flickers out, before returning to the news.
The white haired boy looks unsure of himself after such a speech, arms folded and staring at the floor. He closes his eyes, and swallows.
"I dunno about this, girl." he says, the Togetic yawning as he shifts, then looking down at him. She chirps, patting the top of his head reassuringly. He smiles weakly. "At least one of us is sure, huh?"
Despite the warning Professor Root offered, no one leaves, and the ship takes off, not a single student lighter than it was before the speech. The initiates turn and start to converse with each other, often breaking the ice with chatter about the oddity of the Headmaster’s speech.
The white-haired boy slides down the wall to take a seat on the floor, digging in his bag as he does. The Togetic perks up at this movement, and squeaks happily as he produces a plastic baggy of cookies. She hops down from his head, into his lap, and he laughs as he pulls one out for each of them. "Yeah, I thought that'd get your attention. I need a little something sweet right now. And you're always hungry. Ya glutton. Heh."
The scawny kid kips to his feet, the Clauncher clinging to the poncho with the ease of long practice. Looking around, he walks over to the kid with the Honedge. "Hey... you know if they got food here?" The teen's voice is a rasp, low and buzzing.
Looking around the boy shrugs. "No, I brought my own."
"Ah thought I saw a fancy table with grub over there," comes a somewhat muffled voice as a redhead with creepily bright blue eyes says through the hair bundled up around her mouth. Based on the rather dirt-stained pants, flannel top, and the accent, the Carbink Faunus hails from the farming district. The grey-clad teen freezes as she approaches him, and the Clauncher has already drawn a bead on her, watching warily. "Er, uh. Dinnint mean no harm."
The swordsman sits between them, bemused.
"Not good to sneak up on people you don't know." The teen has relaxed fractionally, while the Clauncher has shut his claw with a reverberating SNAP.
"Sorry bout that. Out in the farming district, it's only polite to help folks out." She scratches at one of her long, stone-like ears. "Name's... uh... Moonshine. Moonshine Anders."
"Leon Kingsley." The teen doesn't move to shake hands but his posture and facial expressions aren't hostile.
"An Kun Zhi," the swordsman supplies.
"Uh… Nice to meet yeh." She kicks at the ground awkwardly. "So... ah... what'dya reckon the initiation test is gunna be?"
"Difficult." An Kun says.
Leon shrugs. "Dunno. Big group melee maybe? Survival test? Face down a bunch of Sparks?" He shrugs and sits down on one of the desks. "Can't decide best way to react without info. No info, no point in making up scenarios. Get too worried, make mistakes."
"They wouldn't sic a bunch of fullgrown Sparks on us, would they?" Moonshine actually looks panicked now. The white-haired boy raises an eyebrow from where he’s sitting, and interjects even as he teases his Togetic with a cookie. The fairy grabs the treat from him, pouting.
"I really doubt it."
"Yeah, I think even Glimmer thinks that would be overkill," the fur-clad boy chimes in.
“Er, uh…”
“Name’s Iris. Iris Irengard.” The white-haired boy supplies.
“Capella Canto,” the furred lad adds.
“Um, nice to make yer acquaintance.
“Likewise…” Iris nods. "Anyway, it's an initiation. Not a massacre. Be kind of pointless to throw something we can't do at us right off the bet." The white haired boy says as his Pokémon messily devours her treat.
Leon shrugs. "Don't know. Just a possibility. Remote, but still plausible until more variables identified and discarded."
"Strive forward,” An Kun says. “ It’s all you can do."
"Ah... Ah guess. It's how Ah got this far. Hard work, honesty, and perseverance. Maybe thi-" She's interrupted by the TV returning to the Headmaster's image.
"I'm glad to see you've settled in, but I'm going to have to ask you to sit at the desks. Your first lesson is about to begin." His is a face of mirth, like he's thinking of the punchline to a joke that hasn't been said yet.
"Variable one." Leon's face tugs into a slight smirk, as he takes a proper seat at the desk he is perched on, followed by the other recruits.
"Now, we are passing over the Flaxen Desertscape, about a day's travel from Flaxen City itself. For some of you, this is your first time out here. It's a treacherous landscape. The Pitch travel along these sands like they own the place... which is a fair claim, though I would hope you'd be up to disputing it… Now, I'm sure you've been muttering amongst yourselves about the nature of this initiation test for a while. Let me clear things up. We will be dropping you here, with the simplest of tasks - get back to Flaxen City. It is by this test that we determine your skillsets, and how you will determine your teams.”
An Kun raises an eyebrow, as Capella pays almost insane attention to the Headmaster.
"The contents of your team will likely shape your time here, and it is thus very important…” He smiles at a dramatic pause. "That said, we will be conducting this by the most ancient of rituals - eye contact. The first student you make eye contact with after landing will be your first teammate."
"WHAT NO OH GOD!" cries a student in the back, drawing some attention to him. The professor ignores that outburst, and continues on his speech, and Iris nonchalantly works on a cookie.
"After that, you will continue as a pair, fighting through any opposition in your way. Eventually, you'll likely meet a second duo, thus completing your team. Are there any questions?"
"How are we being deployed? Jumping, or some other method?" Leon asks.
"I have a terrible feeling,” Capella notes as the Headmaster’s grin widens a little.
"Some... other method. Oh, and before I forget. There is a bag between each of your seats. It contains all the provisions you'll need for 24 hours in the desert. I would suggest you collect them now." There is a quick shuffling as most of the students immediately grab for the bags. "Now... off you go."
Iris slings his bag over one shoulder, and Serena latches onto the hood of his jacket. "I have a bad feelin-“
The sensation of the Spark Wonder Launcher activating is immediate, as the roof opens and the desks are launched in several directions at several hundred miles per hour, the weak materials disintegrating under the feet of the Sparks-to-be as they prepare to leap into action.
“I WAS RIGHT!” Choruses Iris and Capella as they are sent flying at absurd speeds – the kind that most humans couldn’t hope to survive. “HANG ON, SERENA! AND NO SINGING!”
"THIS IS A NON-OPTIMAL METHOOOOOOD!!!!" Leon screams.
------------------------
"Ok, ok, I think I have an idea. See you in a bit, Stark. I need both hands for this." Capella returns his Pokemon to the Pokeball and starts the process of slowing himself down, summoning walls of ice and leaping to them, riding the last and largest one down, slamming into and cutting a path of destruction through a small field of cacti, covering what isn’t destroyed in powder snow. He surveys the damage he’s caused as he releases Stark. "…Well, that was weirdly fun." Stark looks around and snuffles the ground a bit before snorting in a disapproving tone. "Yeah I know, you don't like the desert, or being launched out of a ship at high speed, I kinda have to agree with ya."
Meanwhile, An Kun swings his Honedge by the ribbon, spinning in an arc and slowing his descent enough for him to land safely on a tree in an oasis, the Honedge embedded about the trunk. It lasts only a second, though, as the spirit blade pulls the two of them down to earth safely in a shadowy blur. “… Thanks, Feng Yin.”
“Hooone.”
---------------
Leon leaps from his desk at the last minute, his Clauncher clinging to him as he sees some kind of small, bird-like Pitch flying in his path. “Simo! 47 degrees!” The Pokemon shoots a single blast of water, which is moving at such speeds that it’s steaming, and vaporizes the Pitch with a single blow. He grits his teeth. "Simo, 45 degrees direct, and keep the pressure high!" This time, the water that comes is a single large stream, which dampens the sand and slows Leon’s descent. “… Whew.”
---------------
Iris pulls his goggles into place, closing his eyes as he pokes at a piece of his being that… he’d really rather pretend doesn’t exist, as despite his request his Pokemon begins to sing… His clothes explode into a maelstrom of light and color, his body a sparkling silhouette. The lights that were his clothes form into wings, which gather themselves closed around him protectively, the places they touch becoming covered in pants, boots, a shirt, and a bomber jacket. The wings then spread out, forming into the twin tails of a scarf that appears to be made from rainbows.
With a spin, the silhouette effect explodes away, though his hair billows in a wind completely separate from the gale force winds blowing in his face, shining and shifting in waves between seven colors. He gathers the wind about his legs, slowing his descent to a mere crawl, landing easily on the ground. “Hope no one saw that…” He turns towards his Togetic, who has just now finished singing. "I hate you, so much right now." She rolls her eyes and gives him a teasing smirk. "...Fine. But I'm still mad at you." The Togetic shrugs, and he sighs as he looks around. "Guess we better figure out where we are. To higher ground, I guess." He heads up the sanddune, hoping to catch some indication of the direction he needs to go.
At the top of the sand dune, Iris sees a rather demolished cactus field in one direction, and a distant oasis in the other. "Cactus or Oasis. What ever will I choose… Pfft. Come on girl."
He heads toward the oasis.
----------------------
Leon stares as the lightshow vanishes, then carefully checks himself and Simo over for possible injuries. Content that he and his Pokemon are safe, he shoulders his bag and heads towards where the bright light had landed.
------------------
"Hone?" Feng Yin blinks as An Kun looks at the sparkling lights vanish.
"It's nothing...let's go forward." An Kun stops for a moment to get water from the oasis heading out, not entirely sure where the city is in relation to the oasis.
----------------
Capella looks about, seeing a distant Oasis. He then turns his gaze to where the lightshow ended… and pauses. Pitch are heading in that direction. Figures… Worse still, it looks like a sandstorm is starting up. Of course. Luckily, the Oasis is forested enough to shield from the worst of the sand. He smirks.
"I think I could use some water, what about you Stark?"
Stark rolls his eyes and flatly says "Swinub."
"Lets go then." Capella picks Stark up and starts walking.
-------
Leon arrives at the sand dune where the light landed, and takes a look around… Unfortunately the desert sands have shifted too much for him to tell where the source of the light went. A destroyed cactus garden, soaked with drying water, sits in one direction, and in the other is a Oasis. He shudders as a sandstorm reaches his location. “Ugh.” He then notices several tiny, crocodile like creatures lurking towards him, scales black as night, red eyes glowing and piercing the sandstorm. “Pitch… pretending to be Sandile.” A tremor shakes the desert, and Leon reflexively jumps to the side. “… Nothing? Then what…”
In the distance, a giant serpent bursts from the ground, larger than even a Wailord, its roar shaking the desertscape.
Leon stares, taking a deep breath as it uses its momentum to fly through the air before gravity finally brings it back down. “… Better to focus on what’s in front of me. That thing’s too far away for now.” He focuses his attention on the Pitch before him. Leon takes his daggers and presses the hilts together. With a series of whirs and clicks, the two blades expand and reshape... until he's holding a heavy-duty sniper rifle. Bringing it up to his shoulder, he takes aim at the second-farthest Pitch-dile. "Calculating trajectory... fire."
------------
Iris trudges his way into the oasis, before finding a convenient tree to sit under. "Alright, let's check out what we got to work with here, Serena."
As he checks his supplies, someone turns round the corner, and the two lock eyes.
"Hello."
Iris blinks, before looking up from the bag he'd been digging through.
"Oh. Uh. Hey."
"You have a partner?"
"I do now, I guess. You’re… Capella, right?”
“Yeah. Iris?”
“Yeah. This is Serena. "
He indicates the Pokémon once more nesting on top of his head, then goes back to digging around in the pack, seeing what all is in there.
"This guy is Stark." Stark is settled on Capella’s head, snoozing as usual.
"Nice to meet you guys. So...I don't suppose you have any idea which was the city is, do you?"
Capella starts going through the supply bag as well. "Not at the moment."
Suddenly, a loud shot pierces the sounds of the sandstorm.
"Well that isn’t good."
"That sounded pretty close… I dunno, what do you think? Should we check it out?"
"Would feel better knowing whoever is shooting is okay."
"I have no idea where we are. Unless you've got any ideas, might be a good idea. Safer in numbers and all - what the hell was that."
"Something way above our pay grade."
Iris quickly repacks his bag and slings it over his shoulder. "God. Okay, as much as I really don't want to know what that was, someone was over there. We better check it out."
"Figured that was the plan."
----------------------
An Kun sighs as he trudges through slightly less sandy dunes.
“Hone.”
“I know.” He peers about, gaining his bearings, and sees a tower in the distance. “Worth a shot.”
Upon closer inspection, the tower has no doors, and there doesn’t seem to be anyone at the top of the tower. An Kun tries to climb it a few times… only to slide back down. The second attempt goes worse, with him falling on his back, eliciting a grunt of pain.
“Hoooonnnee.”
“… You’re right.” He turns to leave… only to walk right into a sandstorm. “… Okay, that’s not my fault.”
The desert rumbles, and he sees a giant serpent rise from the desert, launching itself through the air and landing elsewhere.
“Hooone.”
“… Okay, maybe a little.” He shrugs, and continues his wandering.
A few hours later see him observing a cactus that he’s sure he’s seen before.
"Hone."
"If you have a better idea…" He’s cut off by another tremble, seeing the giant Pitch. “… It’s coming.” It is all he can do to block the attack with an application of mystic defensive energy, as the beast causes a shockwave with its descent, burrowing into the ground once more and sending him flying a great distance. As the dust settles, he rights himself and lands safely. “… Now where am I…?” He looks about, and sees a very familiar Oasis.
"Honnnnneeeee."
"...I know."
----------------
“Good job,” Leon says as all but the last of the Pitch fall. The last one looks at him warily, before vanishing into the sand below. Leon disassembles his rifle into dagger forms once again, and holds them ready. "Be prepared. Strike when it appears." Simo clacks his claws in acknowledgement, sitting near Leon.
Suddenly, the creature bursts from the ground, spraying razor-sharp sand everywhere, cutting deeply into both Leon and Simo.
“Gh…” Leon swipes with his knives, but the creature weaves as it falls, dodging both strikes. Simo launches itself into an Aqua Jet, its claw smashing into the crocodile and slamming it into the ground. With a desperate cry, Leon stabs his blades downwards, piercing the Pitch in what would be its heart, if it were truly a living creature. It cries out, before going limp and beginning to disintegrate.
Leon grimaces as he bandages himself and Simo up. “…Need to find water, maybe shelter. Oasis best chance."
Pulling his poncho tight around him and stopping only to pick up Simo recall him to his Pokeball, he begins working through the sandstorm. It’s a hard trek, with the sand beating down on him, and just when he’s almost there… he collapses. As the sand begins to cover him up, the last thing he sees is two figures walking up to him…
"I think we found him Iris."
"Alright, here, you get that arm, let’s get his ass back to the oasis, and get out of this sandstorm."
-----------------
On the way back to the Oasis, Iris and Capella see the source of the giant roar – a giant serpent. It appears to have done battle with someone… judging by the bloody weapon even now embedded in its skin, the fight didn’t go well for the attacker… after all, Pitch don’t bleed.
"Yeah...screw that." Iris mutters. "I don't know about you but I don't want anything to do with that thing. Let's go."
"Agreed."
The two make it back to the Oasis, only to find someone waiting for them.
“You… An Kun, right?”
“Yeah.”
Leon moans in pain.
"I hope someone’s a medic," Capella mutters.
"Barking up the wrong tree there, man.” Iris says. “I mean, I've got some potions and stuff, and a bandage or two just in case but I'm not a medic or anything."
An Kun shakes his head. "My apologies. I have a first aid kit, but no training for something like this"
Leon's eyes crack open as he’s lain down. "Who...?"
"Rest," An Kun chides.
"… Potions in… pouch with green… buckle..." Leon manages.
“Right.” They get to work.