Riviera's Recorded History

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
Certain that fighting your way out is the only option if not best, you release two of your trusted companions for your defence; both of them raring to go as Exeggcute and Paras chitter furiously. Quickly responding to your orders Torchlight and Volante work at reducing the enemies' accuracy; Volante kicking up a violent Sand-Attack from the forest floor as Torchlight breathes out a compounded choking cloud of Smokescreen. From within the cloud of obscurity you hear the two Grass-types, not having expected the near-blind conditions, yelping in surprise and fright. A possible thought that you might have settled this crisis early on spreads relief in your mind, but all of a sudden several energy orbs burst from the dust cloud, falling to your feet before they explode, followed by another squall, and yet another. As the Barrage rains over the three of you your Pokémon try their best to dodge the blows, but as this happens a wave of glittering purple powder finds its way over you. Instantly you feel sick to your stomach as the pores inadvertently find their way into your respiratory system, and doubling up in nausea you see both Torchlight and Volante likewise fall victim to Paras' Poisonpowder, as the explosions from Exeggcute's attack displaces enough of the smoke for you to see through them.

With their targets back in sight your Pokémon dive in for twin Tackles, albeit with pained looks on their faces, and as they ram into their foes you note with grim pride that they, at least, seem just as strong as the wild Pokémon if not stronger. Arcing into midair Volante screeches a caw of battle, swinging back into Paras in an elegantly executed Fly manoeuvre that sends the Mushroom tumbling. At once, Exeggcute hops in front of the scrambling Paras in apparent defence, glowing as it launches another Barrage that knocks both you and your Pokémon backwards. Picking yourself up, you note that Exeggcute still seems pretty capable of battling on while Paras has taken more than considerable damage thanks to Volante's elemental advantage, but things aren't looking too good for your team either...

---

This can't be good... The girl tried hard to hold back the urge to vomit, ultimately failing. Ptomaine was never as harsh on its victims. She knew what this meant: poisoning. And it had just hit the entire team. Of all the times! She searched furiously for something to quell this, not for herself, but for her two friends. She knew this poison was not enough to kill a human, or at least one her size. But, alas, the search yielded no effect. And so, she switched to giving out commands. "All right, you two-hornk! I know we're bad off-Oorp, oh God... but we're not dead. Vo-OORG-Lante! Fly at Paras once, then Exeggcute twice! Ow, my stomach... Torchlight," she said, seeing her Cyndaquil give her the sad little puppy eyes. "Don't look at me like that... Ugh, It's you I'm worried about. Smokescreen, and tackle Paras twice." Heaven help me...

Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
Without any curatives at hand to stave the effects of poison, the best you can do is grit your teeth and grip your guts as you send both your Pokémon back into the fray. Being the most agile out of all Pokémon on the field Volante dives in for another Fly, swooping with a battle cry as her talons rake across Paras' body, but oddly enough you find a peculiar *plink* sound reaching your ears just as Volante makes contact with her target, while Torchlight heaves another helping of Smokescreen all about. Unfortunately, as the translucent cloud makes its way around the targets, you spot to your dismay the sheen of a Reflect barrier put in place; you realise it must have buffeted the physical blow Volante weathered upon Paras earlier.

Sensing, likewise, that the ante has received a crank in the upnotch direction, both your Pokémon rev themselves for greater action to come; Volante driving home another Fly to Exeggcute and Torchlight ramming into Paras with a fullbodied Tackle, but a rippling sheen across your opponents confirm that the Reflect threat is still very much active. In spite of this, neither of your brave Pokémon show any signs of giving up despite the poison going through their systems; the two of them smashing in another Fly and Tackle in respective dissemination. A poofing cloud of powder suddenly erupts from Paras as it keels over, just as Exeggcute's twelve eyes glint with a strange blue glow. Even as Exeggcute and Paras fall limply to the ground you're shocked to see Volante crashland alongside the collapsed Torchlight; the effects of Hypnosis and Effect Spore distinctly at play, putting both of your Pokémon to sleep. Somehow -- whether from the effects of battle, or the mysterious gases wafting from the forest, you're not sure what -- you find your limbs losing their sense of touch, followed by a thorough sense of dull numbness overriding the remainder of your sensory functions, and the last thing you remember is your cheek thudding against the forest floor as the haze clouding your eyes drowns your vision in darkness...

***

"...Kid. Hey, kid! Wake up! Don't go dying on me now!"

The sounds of a gruff, unfamiliar voice are the first things you hear, after who knows how long, and with some considerable effort you feel your eyelids slide open, revealing the face of a goateed, middle-aged man looking down at you...

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

A short reminder to all adventurers in Riviera to include a link to your registration post/member data in your signature. Now...


Elendia

Crystal Caverns

Handymankg2
"You'll help us? Most excellent, Rick; I can't thank you enough that you've offered to assist." Briefly expressing her gratitude, Claudia walks over to the shelves while Nono and Aloso continue picking up the mess, gingerly picking up shards and piling papers.

"We had planned to go tonight; the three of us, I mean, but given current circumstances as you know we simply can't go. You'll be by yourself, but I daresay a Trainer with Pokémon stands as much chance as a group of researchers if not more," muses Claudia, holding a thick book in her hand which she opens for you as she returns. Lines of writing, bearing distinct signs of having been rewritten over with newer ink as the old markings faded away, run down the pages and around a pair of intricately drawn diagrams. "What you're looking at, Rick, is a Lunar Lily: a herbaceous species of flower unique to Rosalina Island and only blooms on the night of a full moon, before withering away at daybreak. It's not entirely rare to find these, but what we're looking for is the item you see in the other picture." Looking on the right page, you see what appears to be a gemstone shaped like a teardrop of liquid.

"In extremely rare instances, the water that pools at the bottom of a Lunar Lily crystallises into what people know as a Phoebe's Tear when a Lunar Lily blooms. There have been accounts that indicate the Phoebe's Tear possesses incredible magical properties; apparently mostly to do with restorative powers. That happens to be what we're looking for in our research -- however, as you've probably guessed, Phoebe's Tears can only be found whenever there is a full moon, and the next one's tonight." Looking back at you, Claudia continues, "Now you see it's so important that the expedition is held tonight. We can't guarantee you'll find anything, though, but we're very appreciative that you've agreed to undertake this task in our place.

"Normally we would pack a number of items to safeguard ourselves, but given your situation you probably won't need them. It's certainly best to pack lightly to prevent any potential detriment to oneself or the environment, as a general piece of advice, and your Pokémon should be able to provide any self-defence if the need should arise," informs Claudia. "There shouldn't be anything else, except for just one other thing... would you mind visiting the Hobbit Smithy? There's something we've left with the blacksmith, Chappi. Tell him Claudia sent you; it's something you'll need for your journey."

---

(For reference as of this post, Combee is now level 21, and I’ll roleplay out an evolution in this post)

Rick listened intently as they spoke. Apparently, he was going alone for this journey. Well, he wouldn’t really be alone he supposed, he still had all of his Pokemon with him, so he wouldn’t be short on company. He smiled up at Belle, who fluttered around, still frantic, almost going straight into a bookshelf, but managing to stop herself and turn with great precision, fluttering to Ricks side and stopping after receiving a slight scowl from Rick. But Rick could tell it was only a matter of time before Combee attempted to restart again. Rick continued to acknowledge the conversation, and although Rick didn’t quite know why at least one of the group couldn’t come with him, he remained silent, waiting to receive his actual task. It appeared that his actual task would be to receive a Lunar Lily, some sort of flower that from the sounds of things was extremely rare, only found on this Rosalina island on the night of a full moon, before withering away again in the morning. Well, it at least seemed rare to Rick, but according to Claudia it wasn’t much so, rather, another item on the island being the rare object. A gemstone shaped like a teadrop was the required object, and by the picture, it looked like quite a nice object to have for yourself, and Rick could understand why anyone would want it. Rick was shocked to find out exactly how it was created, mind, apparently being formed by the water that accumulates at the bottom of the Lunar Lily, known as Phoebes tear.

It also supposedly had magical qualities, apparently more to do with healing or restorative powers, and according to them that was exactly what they needed for their research. And like she said, Rick would have worked it out by now, but the object could only be obtained on the night of a full moon. Why they couldn’t go on another full moon, or one prior to this event to find the object Rick wasn’t certain, but he supposed he was just in the right place at the right time as far as they were concerned, which is something that he’s fine with. Rick did indeed see why it was important that it was held tonight, and also he understood vaguely why none of them could go, but he still was slightly annoyed at the whole travelling across an unfamiliar land by himself. Although he had done it before, it still wasn’t something he would chose to do if he could. She then went on to talk about the fact Rick probably wouldn’t need any items due to being a Pokemon trainer, and the fact he should probably pack light to avoid any detriment (Rick wasn’t honestly sure what that word meant) to the environment or himself for that matter, and she brought up the valid point that his Pokemon would be able to provide any self defence if the need was to come to light. He was then informed that he should probably visit the blacksmith, as the blacksmith possessed something that Rick would need on the journey.

“Thank you for giving me an opportunity like this, I won’t let you down.” Rick stated, before turning to leave the caves, beckoning to Combee. The pair headed back along the path they came, and out the cave into the outskirts of Elendia once again. Rick glanced at Combee once again, who honestly couldn’t stay still. The buzzing was in fact getting fairly annoying, so he stated clearly “Belle, do you mind stopping the frantic buzzi-” He stopped in his tracks. Belle had indeed stopped the buzzing, but was now glowing a shining bright light. Her three heads suddenly fused together into one blob, before the blob grew a head out of the front of itself, the glowing light forming into a face, with two red eyes, pincer like appendages and a pair of what looked like some form of antenna. Wings spouted from the sides of the blob, similar to they were as Combees, except larger. Two, thin arms came out of the blob, with twin spiked fingers on each hand. Then, the bottom half of the body formed, a thin strand going downwards and suddenly expanding into what looked like some sort of dress, in a weird shape made up of seven hexagons, the dress being black and yellow. A small stinger like object hung slightly out of the middle hexagon, and the glowing light stopped, Rick being the proud new owner of what was a Vespiquen, who quickly turned around and looked at Rick, before looking at herself, flexing her wings and her arms. She was about 3 feet tall, and flew over to Rick, who hugged her proudly. The pair then turned, Rick having a large grin on his face, and with a requited nod they headed towards the Hobbit Smith.

Elendia

Hobbit Smithy

Handymankg2
After a brief distraction culminating in the evolution of your starter, you make your way over to your next location within the village of Elendia; a short walk back through some of the local houses to a small establishment much like the village houses, but with a notably unique air and position of its own. Even as you near a few yards from the smithy's door the sounds of clanging metal and hefty grunting can be heard, and stepping into the hut you see a midget of a man bent over a rod of mysteriously glinting material, hammering away as a Sudowoodo sturdily holds the other end, sparks of energy fizzling from the strange ore with each hit.

"Excellent, Sudowoodo; now we just need to... eh?" Noticing your presence, the man glances towards you; years of hard work and experience having left their distinct prints on his darkened face. "A Trainer, eh? If you came by Hobbit Smithy it must be for a reason. I'm Chappi; seventh in a line of nothing but the best in blacksmiths for continents around. What might I do you for, sonny?"

You take a while to explain yourself, with a few gestures from Bellatrix helping you as Chappi nods in understanding.

"Figures. It's about that time of the month, I guess, but I have to hand it to Claudia for wanting to try." Shaking his head, Chappi hops off the stand he was perched on, moving to one of several messy workstations he has lining the place. "You probably don't know this, kid, but these days Lacrima Castle's not particularly attractive to tourists. The Arcs were a reclusive people, I'll give them that, but even they're not the sort to suddenly disappear for months without so much as a peep... it's nothing but bad news out there, kid; it's in the wind and the trees if you listen closely enough.

"Well, don't let me stop you. Here's what you came for: an Item Ball," nods Chappi as he returns in front of you, taking your hand firmly and placing an orblike object in your palm; upon closer inspection you find that it doesn't look any different from a normal PokéBall.

"Don't let how simple it looks fool you, kiddo. Item Balls've been used for ages in the past, and nobody makes 'em like we do at Hobbit Smithy," Chappi grunts, thumping his chest in pride. "Adventurers place crucial inventory in these things, and like PokéBalls do they keep their contents safer than any Trainer's grubby hands could ever do. No offence intended, kid," he adds, somewhat to your relief. "You might want to get a headstart, kid. The sooner you finish that mission o' yours, the less you'll have to risk yourself."

Thanking Chappi, you prepare to leave, moving out of the open doorway as Chappi's voice trails behind you.

"Oh, and kid! If you happen to find anything else a little out of the ordinary, don't forget to pop by!"

***

Only moments later as you walk about the outskirts of Riviera, the sound of another voice is heard from behind you; turning, you see a teenage boy with rutile hair and a purple, spiked helmet running towards you.

"Ah... Rick, is it? I'm sorry we haven't had the pleasure of meeting earlier, but Miss Adryd asked me to hand you this. It's one of the few maps that we have of Rosalina Island; it might help you for your task," pants the adolescent as he catches his breath, handing you a yellowing piece of paper. "My name is Triz, by the way; mining assistant to Elendia's Magic Guild. The others are hard at work recreating some of the equipment we can with the mined crystals... I do see you've retrieved the required inventory from Mr. Hobbit. I assume you have a Flying or Surfing Pokémon at hand, do you?"

Not having expected this question, you mentally breeze through your current roster, looking at Belle who returns your gaze with a helpless shrug; even in evolution she clearly isn't capable of sustained flight with a passenger.

"Oh, dear. Well, I'm afraid I have to get back to assist the others, but if you're in need of transport I can only think of two possibilities -- you might find a Pokémon you can use in the more natural areas in Elendia, or... well, there is another method of getting to Rosalina, but it's pretty risky. If you don't mind that probability, you could come look for me back in the Caverns. Just be discreet about asking; I don't want Miss Adryd to know."

As Triz leaves you and Belle to your thoughts, an obstacle has already reared itself against you and the accomplishment of your quest. A few options are numbered for you, but whichever your decision you'll need to make it wisely and quickly...

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
Without any curatives at hand to stave the effects of poison, the best you can do is grit your teeth and grip your guts as you send both your Pokémon back into the fray. Being the most agile out of all Pokémon on the field Volante dives in for another Fly, swooping with a battle cry as her talons rake across Paras' body, but oddly enough you find a peculiar *plink* sound reaching your ears just as Volante makes contact with her target, while Torchlight heaves another helping of Smokescreen all about. Unfortunately, as the translucent cloud makes its way around the targets, you spot to your dismay the sheen of a Reflect barrier put in place; you realise it must have buffeted the physical blow Volante weathered upon Paras earlier.

Sensing, likewise, that the ante has received a crank in the upnotch direction, both your Pokémon rev themselves for greater action to come; Volante driving home another Fly to Exeggcute and Torchlight ramming into Paras with a fullbodied Tackle, but a rippling sheen across your opponents confirm that the Reflect threat is still very much active. In spite of this, neither of your brave Pokémon show any signs of giving up despite the poison going through their systems; the two of them smashing in another Fly and Tackle in respective dissemination. A poofing cloud of powder suddenly erupts from Paras as it keels over, just as Exeggcute's twelve eyes glint with a strange blue glow. Even as Exeggcute and Paras fall limply to the ground you're shocked to see Volante crashland alongside the collapsed Torchlight; the effects of Hypnosis and Effect Spore distinctly at play, putting both of your Pokémon to sleep. Somehow -- whether from the effects of battle, or the mysterious gases wafting from the forest, you're not sure what -- you find your limbs losing their sense of touch, followed by a thorough sense of dull numbness overriding the remainder of your sensory functions, and the last thing you remember is your cheek thudding against the forest floor as the haze clouding your eyes drowns your vision in darkness...

***

"...Kid. Hey, kid! Wake up! Don't go dying on me now!"

The sounds of a gruff, unfamiliar voice are the first things you hear, after who knows how long, and with some considerable effort you feel your eyelids slide open, revealing the face of a goateed, middle-aged man looking down at you...

---

"...Nngh, oh God, my head..." The girl slowly stirred before bolting upright, almost taking out the man. "Torchlight! Volante!" She paused, awaiting the sound of footsteps and flapping wings. After a brief period, she realized that this was unlikely. She considered taking a look around, but then she realized that not even she knew where she was. She slowly stood up and, while she pondered dusting herself off, ultimately decided against it, lest she go through that ordeal again. She decided to examine her state after regaining consciousness She could walk upright, that was a good sign, she could breathe properly, her heartbeat was normal, nothing was stiff, her hand-eye coordination was good, no hallucinations. Surprisingly good for somebody who was barfing up her own organs, last time she checked. After determining that all her parts worked, she ultimately decided to speak with the man. "Umm... pardon me, sir, have you seen an unconscious Cyndaquil and Pidgey side by side?"

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

Heaven's Gate

Remote Sanctuary

Lonely Cubone
"What I want with her? You're a little too old to be asking such stupid questions; at least you should've learned by now that there're questions best left unasked." As the Skarmory rider looks down on all of you, you feel the cloaked woman shuffle behind you, holding onto you by the shoulders for support; another chilling sensation going through you as her fingers brush against your neck like iced water. "Now are you going to step out of the way, or am I going to have to carve a way out of your --"

"He's not going to do either." An unfamiliar voice, coming like fingernails scratching a blackboard, rasp in your ear, until you realise that the voice's owner is none other than the cloaked girl behind you. Surprised, you try moving yourself to no apparent avail; somehow without you noticing your arms have become locked against your body in a solid grip like an iron vice. Looking to your side, you see the girl's face from the corner of your eye -- no longer trembling and helpless, but now with a most inexplicably sinister stare, almost piercing the woman on the Skarmory in front of you.

"What?! You...!" "Maro!"

"Ah-ah-ah." The sound of weapons being drawn slice through the air as the woman grabs her scythe and Marowak points his bone, but much to your alarm you find three metal spikes suddenly positioned dangerously close to your neck; as your viewpoint travels along them you discover their origin: poking out of the girl's cloak sleeve where a hand might have otherwise been. "One false move, and his blood decorates the rocks."

"Accursed witch!" snarls the scythe wielder, "Let him go! Now!"

"You're hardly in a position to be making demands," sneers the now not-quite-so-helpless girl, and reinforcing her point you feel the tip of her spikes pricking the skin where your jugular is. "Throw down your weapons. Skarmory goes into its PokéBall now, or else."

"Keh!..." The stalemate, ticking into seconds that feel like hours, eventually sees the other woman landing her Skarmory, clearly knowing that at this point she has no other option as you stand captive. Cawing indignantly, Skarmory is retrieved in a flurry of red light, leaving the woman to fling her scythe and PokéBall to the rocks in a reluctant clang. Looking downwards, you see Marowak meet your gaze with anger and worry blazing in its eyes, before he too drops his signature weapon.

"Heh..." A painful jolt jars into your behind as the girl shoves you with her kneecap, knocking you and Marowak to the dust in an unexpected show of her strength. Tumbling across the unforgiving stone, you feel the breath quite taken from you when the woman grabs you by the arm, holding you close. "No questions," she insists in a harsh whisper. "This is between me and her. If you don't run..."

Whatever the woman says next, you find yourself deaf to what she says as the sight before you petrifies your other senses. As the girl's thin lips twist into a smile bordering on demonic, the hood around her head seems to fuse into her hair, and without warning the tip of the hood rips open at the sides, lined with sharp-looking fangs like a grotesque mouth. Both her hands reveal themselves as the spiked formations you felt earlier; catching the light shining from above in piercing glints that make you wince just to look at.

"Special delivery for the Gates of Hell. Kya ha ha ha ha!" Screeching like a banshee with a most murderous look in her eyes, the girl who's become one with her cloak saunters towards you...]

---

Things had not gone well. Not in the slightest. LC had clearly completely misjudged the situation, and now with the cloak-woman racing towards them, fangs, claws and all, it wasn't looking good for him, Marowak or the woman whom until recently had been protected by a Skarmory. He wanted to apologize to the lady, but the look on her face told him pretty conclusively that now was not a good time for such actions, they had to save themselves or at least buy some time. Desperate times called for desperate measures, and LC begun to explain his plan:

"Try and get your weapon and Skarmory back, we'll keep her away from you for now. Marowak is not defenceless, even without his own weapon." he muttered to the woman alongside him, gesturing to her Scythe and Pokeball laying on the rock not far from them. His plan rather revolved around the witch-like abomination before them being easily distracted, but it was all they had for now. "Marowak, we need to slow her down: incite your Earth Power to turn the ground itself against her, if that doesn't work, lets try and see how flammable that cloak is with a Flame Wheel!" Marowak nodded as LC and he took a step forwards to position themselves between the attacker and the woman with the Scythe. Trying to remain as calm as possible so as fear would not overtake him, LC clutched at his belt and held Marowak's Pokeball tight.

Despite trying to keep himself grounded in the dangerous reality, LC couldn't help but wonder what could be the root of this confrontation. Heaven's Gate was known as the final battlefield of the Grim Angels and the Demonic hordes that invaded these lands, and were these two anything to do with that cataclysmic event? Or some other strife? Whatever the answer may be, now was not the time for questions, far from it. Now was the time for staying alive.

Heaven's Gate

Remote Sanctuary

Lonely Cubone
A multitude of raging thoughts, above all the will to survive, pound through your brain as the desperation and malice in the air afflict you. For certain there's a lot more than meets the eye, perhaps even more than you might be capable of imagining, but to answer these queries now would be impossible except in the afterlife. With an expression twisted in an unfathomable cross between what might be irritation, loathing and worry all mixed together, your unlikely saviour scowls at you before she disappears behind your back. Looking back at the monster girl, you find that in spite of her apparent frenzy and bloodlust her movements seem uncoordinated as she steps forward. However, as Marowak places his palm on the rock you spy a flash of violent purple energy across the ground, and before you know it you feel a slashing thump swipe across your stomach faster than you can blink. As the air is smashed out of your lungs you clutch your gut painfully; peering sideways you see Marowak in much the same agonised pose. Had the attack occurred in response to Marowak's offensive stance?

"Wak maro!" Briefly recovering from the unprecedented strike, Marowak finally pounds the stair with a determined fist, sending a wave of his Earth Power into the stone, unfettered by the lack of his weapon. Lines of shining yellow light spiderweb through the rocky surface, cutting out distinct plates of the earth as they surround the cloaked enemy before erupting in an explosion of gaiakinetic energy. With a shriek the demonic girl finds herself tossed backwards, and given an opening Marowak lunges valiantly forward, kicking in knowledge he possessed since long ago as he blazes in a Flame Wheel's fireball. Like a falling meteor your Pokémon rams into his enemy, but even as his body burns and you squint your eyes you discover that no other combustion appears to be occurring; a train of thought soon derailed as a snapping sound breaks your concentration. To your utmost horror the fanged hood has somehow revolved about the girl's head, now holding Marowak in its crushing grasp as she screeches in victory.

"Feisty, are we? How'd you know I like my meal piping hot? But don't worry... Once I'm done with this morsel, I'll be sure to tend to you. Eeeheeheeheeheehee!"

Rendered helpless, you watch despairingly as Marowak is flipped upwards like a burger, suspended briefly before the inevitable drop and devour, when you hear the other new voice ring out like a lightning bolt.

"Pursuit!" Riding a missile surrounded in jet-black power, the warrior woman speeds in on Marowak as her Skarmory hones in like a bullet, barely snatching your Ground-type a split second after the cloak jaws snap shut. A sharp swerve, followed by a jerk on your shoulders, and you soon find yourself hanging in mid-air from Skarmory's firm but painless talon grip. "Now, Skarmory! Agility!"

"Skaaaar!" As Dark energy gives way to Psychic power, Skarmory careens against the wind faster than you might have expected out of a metallic avian, but your new visual perspective weighs most heavily on your mind. Granted, you had come searching for sights, but most certainly not from a precarious bird's eye view while under the threat of a manic half-human. Somehow Skarmory seems to pay little mind to your instinctive flailing, bravely navigating towards the chains and rocks, when --

"What in the -- NO!" At the woman's curse, you turn around to immediately wish you hadn't made the involuntary action; a symbol of flame, gaining size and intensity with distance as it heads towards you, threatening to swallow the entire group. "Skarmory, faster!"

Little else reaches your senses at that point, aside from a scorching wave of heat and Skarmory's cry of agony, followed by a ripping sound as the material of your shirt slips through the Armour Bird's cringing claws; a death knell louder even than the collective screams above you. Stones and metal, accompanied by a cacophonic orchestra of noise of chaos, fills your mind as you hurtle...

***

Minutes or hours? You can't tell for certain, but as you open your eyes you know that for certain you've been put out of commission for quite a while. As your sensory functions refamiliarise themselves you feel a series of definitive throbbing pains through your body; a combination of burns, cuts and bruises, but surprisingly less severe than you might have otherwise expected from the near-death experience. The scarred face of the scythe wielder appears before you; her dark blue eyes soft in their gaze, and for some reason you have the distinct impression that she had been crying for a while, at least.

"You're alive!" she whispers, again surprising you with how gentle she's being, "Thank goodness, you're alive!" Dull thuds pulse in your limbs as you find yourself scooped in an embrace; the woman's hair pressed against your neck as she holds you like a long-lost friend. Was this really the cold, no-nonsense lady you'd only just met some time ago, you can't help but wonder, as she eventually relents with a sad look on her face. Looking around, you find yourself on the floor of what seems to be the ruins of an ancient temple having already lost its gleam. Some distance away Marowak and Skarmory lie, resting off their exhaustion and injuries.

"I'm sorry you had to get involved in this." The woman speaks, and meeting her gaze you sense unease within her, as though she's deliberated over what to say for a while and still hasn't found the right words. "I understand that you likely have a lot of questions for me, but first..." For a moment, the steely, resolute quality in her countenance returns, and you know that things have only taken another turn for the serious.

"Tell me -- what do you know about the Grim Angels?"


Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
"Cyndaquil and Pidgey? Aha, no need to worry, little girl." Standing upright, the man chuckles as he pats you kindly on the shoulder. "You should worry about yourself a little more; you've been out of it for quite a while. Best eat up well and regain your strength."

Feeling your sight return as the stranger -- clothed in most unkempt tatters, you notice -- leads you gently by the hand, you find yourself in what appears to be a makeshift house constructed out of messily, but sturdily arranged sticks and logs, much like a traditional abode constructed by rainforest tribes with a fire in the middle. Through a hole in the roof the exotic smells of a meal merrily bubbling on a cooking pot wafts into the forest outside (at which, you are somewhat dismayed to find, has already darkened with the blackness of night), and surrounding a reasonable buffer zone a variety of soft moss has been laid out as makeshift carpeting, on which you are elated to see Volante and Torchlight soundly sleeping.

"They've already recovered and had their fill for the night. Of course, considering that Pokémon are more used to the effects of their moves than Trainers, you took a far longer time to recuperate. If Cormag there hadn't spotted you, though, while we were looking for dinner, I'd say the three of you would've been chow for Victreebel." At the man's gesture you spot a greater-crested blackbird Pokémon standing on its own cleverly crafted perch. "Murkrow!" it says, spotting you looking at it, while the man guides you to a well-made wooden chair on which you gingerly sit.

"I have to say, though; it's not every now and then someone turns up in the Wiese Forest. Mostly Cormag and I find the bodies of souls unfortunate to wander in these parts unprepared, victims of the local flora and fauna. When you're in a forest this big it's a human eat plant eat Pokémon cycle to survive, and the forest itself is considerably feral. Still, so long as you don't play by your chances too much, you'll get by. It's the only way to live as long as I've managed." Apparently monologuing, the man goes over to the pot, scooping up some of its contents into a wooden bowl with a slightly bent ladle, soon bringing its steaming contents to you with a small spoon to match. Peering down, you find your stomach churn at the bizarre, stewed shade of green, dotted with lashes of crimson and brown.

"Don't worry," he advises, "I've already proven through trial and error which the good ones are." Still somewhat unsure, you carefully bring a spoonful of the peculiar stew to your lips, discovering to your wonder that the brew is most invigorating to its taste, and the mushrooms just well done with the right amount of chew to it.

"The name's Duessel. Leon Duessel," introduces the stranger at last, smiling as he watches you tuck in. "And who might you be?"

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
"Cyndaquil and Pidgey? Aha, no need to worry, little girl." Standing upright, the man chuckles as he pats you kindly on the shoulder. "You should worry about yourself a little more; you've been out of it for quite a while. Best eat up well and regain your strength."

Feeling your sight return as the stranger -- clothed in most unkempt tatters, you notice -- leads you gently by the hand, you find yourself in what appears to be a makeshift house constructed out of messily, but sturdily arranged sticks and logs, much like a traditional abode constructed by rainforest tribes with a fire in the middle. Through a hole in the roof the exotic smells of a meal merrily bubbling on a cooking pot wafts into the forest outside (at which, you are somewhat dismayed to find, has already darkened with the blackness of night), and surrounding a reasonable buffer zone a variety of soft moss has been laid out as makeshift carpeting, on which you are elated to see Volante and Torchlight soundly sleeping.

"They've already recovered and had their fill for the night. Of course, considering that Pokémon are more used to the effects of their moves than Trainers, you took a far longer time to recuperate. If Cormag there hadn't spotted you, though, while we were looking for dinner, I'd say the three of you would've been chow for Victreebel." At the man's gesture you spot a greater-crested blackbird Pokémon standing on its own cleverly crafted perch. "Murkrow!" it says, spotting you looking at it, while the man guides you to a well-made wooden chair on which you gingerly sit.

"I have to say, though; it's not every now and then someone turns up in the Wiese Forest. Mostly Cormag and I find the bodies of souls unfortunate to wander in these parts unprepared, victims of the local flora and fauna. When you're in a forest this big it's a human eat plant eat Pokémon cycle to survive, and the forest itself is considerably feral. Still, so long as you don't play by your chances too much, you'll get by. It's the only way to live as long as I've managed." Apparently monologuing, the man goes over to the pot, scooping up some of its contents into a wooden bowl with a slightly bent ladle, soon bringing its steaming contents to you with a small spoon to match. Peering down, you find your stomach churn at the bizarre, stewed shade of green, dotted with lashes of crimson and brown.

"Don't worry," he advises, "I've already proven through trial and error which the good ones are." Still somewhat unsure, you carefully bring a spoonful of the peculiar stew to your lips, discovering to your wonder that the brew is most invigorating to its taste, and the mushrooms just well done with the right amount of chew to it.

"The name's Duessel. Leon Duessel," introduces the stranger at last, smiling as he watches you tuck in. "And who might you be?"

---

"In all honesty, sir, I don't know myself." said the girl. "They just dug me out of the ruins a couple months ago, now all but three people hate me. You and Cormag are two of them. I just call myself the Dark Mistake now, at least, until I learn who I am. Hey, thanks for the stew." the girl continued, genuinely grateful that nobody ended up plant food. "Guess I'll be thinking twice about where I walk." She regretted having not packed anything beforehand, she never had any money to get it with. It had been a while since she was actually invited to a feast, as opposed to getting run out of it like the last time. But she had one question to ask, especially since it meant her survival in this wood. "Mr. Duessel, you said earlier that you knew how to tell good plants from bad. Could you please tell me which ones in this forest are safe to eat?"

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

RIVIERA


Lacrima Castle - please reply in darkslateblue
Located on Rosalina Island, the northeasternmost island in Riviera territory, Lacrima Castle is also popularly known as "the castle bathed in moonlight". Until some decades ago, a race of people known as Arcs lived within the castle grounds, but little has been heard from them ever since and the Arcs are believed to have simply died out. Swarmed by a variety of Pokémon, Rosalina Island is a considerably feral location in Riviera, and with the Arcs' apparent disappearance it has been overcast by a peculiar shroud that appears to cloud the island in night's darkness. Adventurers to Lacrima Castle find that it is always night there, though the silvery moon shines bright upon the seemingly ominous, yet melancholy structure. The only methods of getting to Lacrima Castle would be via the help of a Surfing or Flying Pokémon, although it is rumoured another method of transport exists somewhere...

Wilheim Path
A coastal road that goes about a cliff, leading to where Lacrima Castle stands. Due to its position near the water, the weather is often warm, and migratory birds can be seen enjoying the breeze. Some of the grasses and herbs found here are known to have various healing properties.

---

The salty air engulfed his lungs, Pepper Jack and his faithless crew were traveling the sea's again, in search of the unfounded treasures hidden from the scum of the earth, like himself. The Diddle road comfortably on the back of his tortoisey partner, Tortuga, the blastoise. The waves were gentle as the duo surfed through the night, awaiting their arrival to Rosalina Island, where Lacrima Castle resides. The thing that peeked his interest most was the moonlight scenery. Ledah would definitely would love the change in pace, slow things down and soak in the moonlight.

"I hope this visit will make up for that embarrassing loss at the PokeRinger.. God only knows I let her down in more ways than one.", Pepper thought, Rosalina was now in clear view and Blastoise also noticing, began to make hast. ".. Who knows what could be there. If anybody else had decided to tour the island the same night as him, or even people that could inhabit the island.. I may as well expect the worst.."

After ten minutes or so of losing himself in thought, Tortuga had beached himself on the shore, prompting his trainer to fumble off his gigantic shell and on to the gravely shores of Rosalina Island. Pepper jumped to his feet, brushing off what bits of pebble that stuck to his clothing. This whole Riveria region was new to him, but it was exciting enough to start something fresh. Perfect opportunity to introduce some of his newer members of the squad into training, and improve on some of the older members technique. There was always room for improvement, and maybe even a new addition to the team. It had been some time since The Diddler had successfully captured anything on his own, relying on the adoption services and the egg house for most of his crew, perhaps he could find a memorable partner in these parts.

"Thanks alot Tuga, but I think I'll be able to take it from here," he said as a light shot forth from a Vampire Ball in his hand and engulfed Tortuga. Word has it that a trail leading to the castle shouldn't be too far off from the beach. Raising his head, he looked at a castle in the distance, "What is it you hide? And why did you kill that man? By nights end I promise to uncover mysteries that shouldn't be, but he didn't deserve to die.."

Lacrima Castle

Wilheim Path

Thunder Punch
As you trudge your way through the sand seeping into dirt and grass, engrossed in your plans in exploration on the island forever bathed in perpetual hues of melancholy and darkness, you feel the warm oceanic breeze blow against your costume with a bizarrely prominent presence. Sounds of rustling grass echo all about you, forming a hissing chorus that you can't decide between fearful or furious at your new arrival, and high above you the cries of nocturnal Pokémon can be heard; distant silhouettes triumphant against the light of a crescent moon. Feeling a gentle calm blanket your senses, it doesn't take you very long to trek up the gradual trail towards the forgotten citadel.

Soon enough you stand beholding Lacrima Castle in its glory; a dark structure more imposing up close than you pictured in your mind across a cobbled path lined with imposing gargoyle statues, cloaked in an inscrutable aura that perhaps could only be described as profound sadness, accompanied by the chirping of local fauna. It seems that the castle grounds are thriving for opportunity of adventure and partnership, but where will you begin? Will the surrounding gardens be suitable for your needs, or would you be better off headed up the castle towers instead? The choice is up to you...


Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
"Hmmmm. Got this to say first though, miss. I can't ever say I've ever heard or encountered anything quite like what you said. Of course, they say Riviera's got plenty secrets locked deep within the land, but I suppose there's always a first time for everything." Ladling himself a good portion of the plant stew, Duessel sits on his own seat opposite yours. "Beg pardon for my expression of surprise, though; I'd've thought your asking priority would be to get out of here soon as possible. No one in their right mind would look at staying here for the long term as an option -- no offence intended, of course, my dear.

"If you're looking for survival tips though, miss -- can I call you that? The Dark Mistake's a bit of a mouthful, chomp smack chomp -- I'm afraid I can't give you a set recommendation for cuisine. Forests are chock full of unique species, and some have the most annoying habits of mimicking each other for camouflage or growing random poisons. There are, however --" At this, Duessel turns about, picking up a tattered tome from the shadowed floor before standing up to hand it to you, "Some tips I picked up from unfortunate individuals. It doesn't pay to be unprepared, although there are often enough scenarios that you can't prepare for."

Placing your emptied bowl down on the ground you accept the book, in actuality little more than ancient bits of paper put together in a folder. One particularly creased piece of paper, captioned Edible Fungi, stands out to you, but browsing over its contents you find only a list of bewildering instructions:

The ones that are shrivelled are lethal unless they glow in the dark, in which case they might be safe.
The red ones are lethal unless they are shrivelled, in which case they might be safe.
The brown ones are safe unless they are spotted, in which case they might be lethal.
The black ones are lethal unless they have smooth caps, in which case they might be safe.
If you're not sure, and it is spotted, then you can be sure it's safe.

"Of course, there's no better teacher than experience like my elders used to say, although naturally not all lessons are pleasant... speaking of elders, you wouldn't happen to know what year it is, would you?"

Recalling what you heard from others, you report the figure to Duessel, at which the older man performs an amusing (if also somewhat alarming) spittake, spraying chewed mushroom and herbs across the floor.

"Has it been so long?" he asks wearily, running a hand through his hair, "Forty-five years, now, I've been in this mystical forest, and yet I've not aged a single day." As he suddenly looks most sorrowful, you can't help but feel a pang of empathy at Duessel's expression. "It's one of the effects of this place, they told me. They'd warned me not to venture into Wiese Forest or I'd never return. 'Course, having trekked through Mireno and Tethys and lived to tell the tale, I had to blaze my trail here, didn't I? Thought I'd prove them all wrong. I thought perhaps I was living a dream, but now it seems the curse of this wretched wood claimed more victims to keep me eternally accompanied."

Unconsciously you bite your lip as Duessel massages his forehead, lost within his own thoughts. If what he says is true -- and, in fact, you've no reason to doubt him given his frankness and hospitality -- you could be stuck in here for far long than you've bargained for...

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

Elendia

Hobbit Smithy

Handymankg2
After a brief distraction culminating in the evolution of your starter, you make your way over to your next location within the village of Elendia; a short walk back through some of the local houses to a small establishment much like the village houses, but with a notably unique air and position of its own. Even as you near a few yards from the smithy's door the sounds of clanging metal and hefty grunting can be heard, and stepping into the hut you see a midget of a man bent over a rod of mysteriously glinting material, hammering away as a Sudowoodo sturdily holds the other end, sparks of energy fizzling from the strange ore with each hit.

"Excellent, Sudowoodo; now we just need to... eh?" Noticing your presence, the man glances towards you; years of hard work and experience having left their distinct prints on his darkened face. "A Trainer, eh? If you came by Hobbit Smithy it must be for a reason. I'm Chappi; seventh in a line of nothing but the best in blacksmiths for continents around. What might I do you for, sonny?"

You take a while to explain yourself, with a few gestures from Bellatrix helping you as Chappi nods in understanding.

"Figures. It's about that time of the month, I guess, but I have to hand it to Claudia for wanting to try." Shaking his head, Chappi hops off the stand he was perched on, moving to one of several messy workstations he has lining the place. "You probably don't know this, kid, but these days Lacrima Castle's not particularly attractive to tourists. The Arcs were a reclusive people, I'll give them that, but even they're not the sort to suddenly disappear for months without so much as a peep... it's nothing but bad news out there, kid; it's in the wind and the trees if you listen closely enough.

"Well, don't let me stop you. Here's what you came for: an Item Ball," nods Chappi as he returns in front of you, taking your hand firmly and placing an orblike object in your palm; upon closer inspection you find that it doesn't look any different from a normal PokéBall.

"Don't let how simple it looks fool you, kiddo. Item Balls've been used for ages in the past, and nobody makes 'em like we do at Hobbit Smithy," Chappi grunts, thumping his chest in pride. "Adventurers place crucial inventory in these things, and like PokéBalls do they keep their contents safer than any Trainer's grubby hands could ever do. No offence intended, kid," he adds, somewhat to your relief. "You might want to get a headstart, kid. The sooner you finish that mission o' yours, the less you'll have to risk yourself."

Thanking Chappi, you prepare to leave, moving out of the open doorway as Chappi's voice trails behind you.

"Oh, and kid! If you happen to find anything else a little out of the ordinary, don't forget to pop by!"

***

Only moments later as you walk about the outskirts of Riviera, the sound of another voice is heard from behind you; turning, you see a teenage boy with rutile hair and a purple, spiked helmet running towards you.

"Ah... Rick, is it? I'm sorry we haven't had the pleasure of meeting earlier, but Miss Adryd asked me to hand you this. It's one of the few maps that we have of Rosalina Island; it might help you for your task," pants the adolescent as he catches his breath, handing you a yellowing piece of paper. "My name is Triz, by the way; mining assistant to Elendia's Magic Guild. The others are hard at work recreating some of the equipment we can with the mined crystals... I do see you've retrieved the required inventory from Mr. Hobbit. I assume you have a Flying or Surfing Pokémon at hand, do you?"

Not having expected this question, you mentally breeze through your current roster, looking at Belle who returns your gaze with a helpless shrug; even in evolution she clearly isn't capable of sustained flight with a passenger.

"Oh, dear. Well, I'm afraid I have to get back to assist the others, but if you're in need of transport I can only think of two possibilities -- you might find a Pokémon you can use in the more natural areas in Elendia, or... well, there is another method of getting to Rosalina, but it's pretty risky. If you don't mind that probability, you could come look for me back in the Caverns. Just be discreet about asking; I don't want Miss Adryd to know."

As Triz leaves you and Belle to your thoughts, an obstacle has already reared itself against you and the accomplishment of your quest. A few options are numbered for you, but whichever your decision you'll need to make it wisely and quickly...

---

As of this post, Vespiquen is level 25. I think I need to note this sort of thing.

As Rick approached, the sound of clanging metal and heavy grunting resounded in his ears, readying himself to meet whom he hoped would be a friendly person, but Blacksmiths seemed to fall into the stupid strong person category that Rick father was so adamant about, even though he probably actually fell into the category himself. Stepping inside the hut, Rick noticed that the person wouldn’t fall into that stereotype after all, being surprisingly short for someone who should be stereotypical classified as quite tall and broad shouldered. He was bent over a rod of a mysterious glinting material, unlike one Rick had ever seen before in his life, but then again, he didn’t see too much at all living in Viridian City, other than the occasional gym battle or rare flying type Pokemon. This sort of place was completely alien to Rick, but he realised after his first adventure that he likes alien environments, as they provide him with such a feeling he couldn’t get from any other place. He smiled as he saw what was a Pokemon he’d never seen in real life before, but watched battle on television once or twice, and Rick loved the bizarre sort of fighting style that the Pokemon often used. The Pokemon was holding one side of the material as it was being hit, some form of energy being knocked off in sparks as the hammer slammed into it with a certain rhythm that Rick started to get used to as he walked a bit further in. The man began to speak, and then noticed that you were there, glancing towards Rikc as Rick was able to see the mans face more clearly. He looked like he was certainly experienced, marks on his face showing much dedication and work that must have gone into his job over the past years of his life, perhaps even all his life. Rick supposed he’d end up like that one day, after he finished adventuring, working away his life at whatever job he chose to specialise in. Rick was surprised when he heard him say seventh in line. Rick had barely ever heard of a family line that works like that in such a way, not even kings or queens were generally ever seven in line, having been ousted or pushed in at some point of their legacy. You decide now was the time to describe why you’re here, so you do so.

“Basically, I’ve been sent by Claudia at the Crystal Caverns to you in order to get something I need for my journey. I’m being sent to Rosalina Island in order to find a certain type of plant that only pops up at a full moon, called a Lunar Lilly. Apparently, the water that forms in the bottom of that plant has some sort of healing properties, and I’ve been sent by the Magic Guild to find some of this stuff to help them on some sort of project they’re planning. I was looking for an adventure, and basically, she provided it, so I’ve come here to get something they apparently left with you.” The man then decided to speak, and Rick listened with all ears, hoping to find out anything about the place he would be going too. He stated that it would be nothing but bad news out there, to which Rick replied “Apparently, bad news follows me wherever I go, so going to it for once might be a nice change.” He smiled. Rick saw Bellatrix perk up as she saw what they were receiving; she quite liked things that she hadn’t seen before, similar to Ricks personality and something he guessed she’d picked up along the way. Upon looking down at what Chappi put in his hands, he noticed it was just a pokeball. He continued to stare at it for a few seconds, before opening his mouth, but being cut off by Chappi. He explained that it was in fact different to a pokeball, and Rick believed him, and taking the mans advice, he thanked him and left, nodding as Chappi said to return if he saw anything out of the ordinary.

Moments later, as Rick reached the outskirts of the town, you turn and see a kid with purple hair and a spiked helmet running towards him, and he began to speak quickly, giving Rick a map which he accepted thankfully. His name was Triz, apparently, and he then asked a question that Rick was certainly not expecting, but was vital nonetheless. He quickly glanced at Bellatrix, who simply shrugged back, and he gulped. And then the boy gave him two suggestions. As much as he would like to capture another member of his team, he only had one slot left, and he really wanted to keep that open for now. Later in the journey, perhaps something, but for now, he’d rather not capture anything that will restrict him. He decided then, as his only option, he’d go to the Crystal Caverns and ask about the other method of getting there. He’d just have to remember to be prompt about it, and not to arouse any suspicions from anyone else, as he guessed it must be illegal, dangerous, or worse.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

RIVIERA


[color=aqua]Tetyth City - please reply in aqua
Originally a city in the centre of a lake, southeast from where Elendia is located, Tetyth was said to have been cursed in the distant past when the local inhabitants angered the gods with their extravagance and arrogance. Due to this the once beautiful city of splendour and prosperity was submerged within the waters, killing all the people in the city's limits and leaving behind the city's rich treasures and archives. In light of this, adventurers and researchers have made attempts to explore the sunken ruins, in order to discover more about the ancient lake city that has now become infested with Pokémon. However, not all investigative expeditions have been successful; many of the city's traps are still very active, and those who set foot on Tetyth's abandoned soil have returned with claims that the water has a mind of its own...
Tetyth Lake
With no port to cast off, Surfing on a Pokémon is the only other way to access Tetyth across the watery depths. Usually the waters seem calm, but it is rumoured that feral aquatic Pokémon have staked their territory in various bits of the lake, ready to attack any intruders...
[/size]

---

He stood on the bank of the lake, looking out at the pristine waters, as though a child searching for something lost, his eyes slowly rotating in their joints one way, before juddering and shifting the other. Eventually, he reached for his belt and pulled two balls off of it. One of them, a standard pokeball. The other, a much more exotic-looking Moon Ball, the reason he was here. Having jogged his memories of a previous adventure, one where he met a new ally and stopped the suffering of innocent pokemon, he recalled the trip to this land, one made on foot. It was just yesterday, the time that his entourage reached the lands near Tetyth Lake, that an abnormal triggering of his mind, caused by the resident of the Moon Ball, had occurred. The situation was clearly accidental, simply the by-product of unfortunate circumstances in training. As he closed his eyes in reminiscence, the mind of the boy came to life in his head.

Two men, or two creatures, one would not know. A mysterious amber-crowned fairy. A completely different world, devoid of pokemon. A sudden ray of light from above. The cheers of a crowd for a champion that never existed. A meeting with a monster that was only illusion. Two iron birds, as real as a shadow. An empty void...

A sudden flash of light, and a creature appeared by his side. While under normal circumstances he would have simply recalled it, the beast was out for a reason, for he had heard some rumours of the lake before him. Rumours concerning a large library within a sunken city, within which he sought information regarding the mystery in his mind, which memories were fact, which were fiction. A second flash of light, and he turned his head, staring into the crimson eye of the very resultant of his new quest, one much more personal than his old one of seeking treasures supposedly within the waters.

"Meteos." He stated simply.

'Tetyth Lake. This is the place, Jamie.' The sound of the masculine voice, laced with a hint of uncertainty, entered the boy's head, a natural occurance due to the psychic latency of Lunatone. As the Meteorite pokemon floated above the ground, Jamie turned to his other pokemon, one which had been an ally of his for a long time. Thick muscles wrapped in a dirty blue skin, jaws as large as a bear trap, and a pair of muddy fins on the head, as well as the tail, and it was evident that the pokemon beside him was one fit for the watery environment, yet oddly suited to life on land as well.

"Wraith, we move, now. Take heed, for the waters seem irritable..."

As the Swampert lumbered into the lake, hefty body kept afloat by its large surface area, the human clumb aboard while the moon-shaped rock simply hovered by his side, as the larger pushed away from the shore and made for the centre of the lake, the psychic pokemon's eyes alight with energy seemingly searching for any entry to the city that was rumoured to exist, and where it was sure his master would discover what plagued his mind. While the act itself was fully error of judgment, a confusion missing his master's Honchkrow and instead striking the master's head, it felt sorrow for the art, for it was his job to defend his master. It had always been for the past thousand years or so, it simply meant a new master.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

Lacrima Castle

Wilheim Path

Thunder Punch
As you trudge your way through the sand seeping into dirt and grass, engrossed in your plans in exploration on the island forever bathed in perpetual hues of melancholy and darkness, you feel the warm oceanic breeze blow against your costume with a bizarrely prominent presence. Sounds of rustling grass echo all about you, forming a hissing chorus that you can't decide between fearful or furious at your new arrival, and high above you the cries of nocturnal Pokémon can be heard; distant silhouettes triumphant against the light of a crescent moon. Feeling a gentle calm blanket your senses, it doesn't take you very long to trek up the gradual trail towards the forgotten citadel.

Soon enough you stand beholding Lacrima Castle in its glory; a dark structure more imposing up close than you pictured in your mind across a cobbled path lined with imposing gargoyle statues, cloaked in an inscrutable aura that perhaps could only be described as profound sadness, accompanied by the chirping of local fauna. It seems that the castle grounds are thriving for opportunity of adventure and partnership, but where will you begin? Will the surrounding gardens be suitable for your needs, or would you be better off headed up the castle towers instead? The choice is up to you...

---

The castle was alot gloomier than he had first expected, but it was one of the most marvelous structures he ever had the pleasure to lay eyes upon. It was massive; meaning that he'll be needing a local to navigate around the castle, to the Moonlit Garden first, then explore the rest of the castle soon after preparing for the possible danger.

Grabbing a blue Nett Ball from his belt, "It's time for you to stretch your wings, Ledah..." Pepper Jack grinned as he removed the blue and white sphere containing his lonely Ledian, from his belt, releasing the little bug with a brief flash of light. Fluttering violently upon her release, Ledah was clearly distressed by her neglect, but now he thought would be the right time as he pondered over where the two would go to first. Tossing the various areas of the castle around in his head, he finally decided on starting exactly where they were now, the grounds.

The spots on his discolored Ledian were glowing a faint white, the moon having somewhat of an affect on her. I've never really seen what happens to her species when the come in contact with direct moonlight.. I wonder what might happen, he wondered. Turning his attention back to the pathway of gargoyles, "Looks like we'll be needing some assistance from the native pokemon around here., Be cautious though Ledders, they might not be to pleased with us invading their space..", he motioned her to follow.

She hovered for a moment before dashing off ahead of him, her energy seemingly rejuvenated by the atmosphere. Whatever tales of sadness this place holds, Ledah certainly does feel at home here, getting lost in his thoughts again as he trudged along behind her.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Shadowshocker

Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
"Hmmmm. Got this to say first though, miss. I can't ever say I've ever heard or encountered anything quite like what you said. Of course, they say Riviera's got plenty secrets locked deep within the land, but I suppose there's always a first time for everything." Ladling himself a good portion of the plant stew, Duessel sits on his own seat opposite yours. "Beg pardon for my expression of surprise, though; I'd've thought your asking priority would be to get out of here soon as possible. No one in their right mind would look at staying here for the long term as an option -- no offence intended, of course, my dear.

"If you're looking for survival tips though, miss -- can I call you that? The Dark Mistake's a bit of a mouthful, chomp smack chomp -- I'm afraid I can't give you a set recommendation for cuisine. Forests are chock full of unique species, and some have the most annoying habits of mimicking each other for camouflage or growing random poisons. There are, however --" At this, Duessel turns about, picking up a tattered tome from the shadowed floor before standing up to hand it to you, "Some tips I picked up from unfortunate individuals. It doesn't pay to be unprepared, although there are often enough scenarios that you can't prepare for."

Placing your emptied bowl down on the ground you accept the book, in actuality little more than ancient bits of paper put together in a folder. One particularly creased piece of paper, captioned Edible Fungi, stands out to you, but browsing over its contents you find only a list of bewildering instructions:

The ones that are shrivelled are lethal unless they glow in the dark, in which case they might be safe.
The red ones are lethal unless they are shrivelled, in which case they might be safe.
The brown ones are safe unless they are spotted, in which case they might be lethal.
The black ones are lethal unless they have smooth caps, in which case they might be safe.
If you're not sure, and it is spotted, then you can be sure it's safe.

"Of course, there's no better teacher than experience like my elders used to say, although naturally not all lessons are pleasant... speaking of elders, you wouldn't happen to know what year it is, would you?"

Recalling what you heard from others, you report the figure to Duessel, at which the older man performs an amusing (if also somewhat alarming) spittake, spraying chewed mushroom and herbs across the floor.

"Has it been so long?" he asks wearily, running a hand through his hair, "Forty-five years, now, I've been in this mystical forest, and yet I've not aged a single day." As he suddenly looks most sorrowful, you can't help but feel a pang of empathy at Duessel's expression. "It's one of the effects of this place, they told me. They'd warned me not to venture into Wiese Forest or I'd never return. 'Course, having trekked through Mireno and Tethys and lived to tell the tale, I had to blaze my trail here, didn't I? Thought I'd prove them all wrong. I thought perhaps I was living a dream, but now it seems the curse of this wretched wood claimed more victims to keep me eternally accompanied."

Unconsciously you bite your lip as Duessel massages his forehead, lost within his own thoughts. If what he says is true -- and, in fact, you've no reason to doubt him given his frankness and hospitality -- you could be stuck in here for far long than you've bargained for...

---

This isn't good... The girl considered the news. On the one hand, the girl was going to be here for quite some time. On the other hand, she had quite some time to find herself, or, if such was not possible, the way out. But then, she considered the two. They were stuck in the same situation as she, caught in a forest that would take the lives of the unaware. She knew she could help them, but she also knew that they could help her. "Mr. Duessel? I was planning to go on an expedition through this forest's ruins once Torchlight and Volante woke up. Perhaps you and Cormag could tag along? I know you could help me out to live through this trip, and I might be able to help you get out. What do you say?"

Elendia

Crystal Caverns

Handymankg2
With little choice left to you for transport and the other choice a no-go as a result of your limited options, you find yourself headed for the Crystal Caverns once more. It doesn't take you long before the subterranean labyrinth's entrance comes into view, as well as Triz who appears to have been waiting for you.

"I had a hunch you'd come, so I decided to wait out here a bit longer before rejoining the others. You'll need to be quick; I don't want the others knowing," he mutters, beckoning at you to follow him as he darts down the stairway. As Bellatrix buzzes behind you, the sounds of your footsteps ring through the caves as you try keeping up with the teenager, barely spotting him round a corner you hadn't noticed earlier when you went near the cavern stream. With each stride into the new route you find less of the crystals' calming glints; most of them apparently removed from mining processes, leaving only blank rock. The only light ahead you can see is a bizarre diagram on the stone floor, illuminating Triz's silhouette from below as he waves at you.

"This is a Teleport Circle," explains Triz as you near. "To put it simply, it's an area in space and time where the remnants of a Pokémon's Teleport attack have been isolated and focused, granting a psychic gateway between dimensions to allow anyone to travel between places instantaneously. The problem is, using the Teleport Circle creates a noticeable disturbance where both gateways are -- meaning, you'll risk alerting the Pokémon on Rosalina Island to your presence; some species are particularly sensitive to the presence of others and may attack. Usually Miss Adryd would have carried pacifiers for the expedition, except... well, I think you get the idea. I'm afraid there's little else I can tell you... just remember, Rick, be careful out there above all else. Now all you need to do is focus on the thought of reaching your destination. Good luck!"

Nodding as you step inside the runic pattern, you close your eyes with the image of an island shrouded darkness and mystery filling your mind. Even with your eyelids closed you can feel light rising from the ground around you, giving your body the strange sensation of being lighter than air...

Lacrima Castle

Wilheim Path

The advent of a warm breeze, filled with the strong scent of salt, greets your nose as you suddenly feel the weight return to your body. Opening your eyes, you find that your surroundings have changed quite dramatically; while there isn't much in the way of light the ground below you is grassy instead of bare, and every now and then the sounds of local Pokémon chittering can be heard. Buzzing, Bellatrix points you at the sea where you can just about make out the mainland of Riviera in the distance, obscured by distant mist... or is it a miasma unique to Rosalina, almost sealing off the island from the world? Certainly, you don't remember journeying this late into the night; it was still light when you left Elendia, and yet the full moon shines above you casting light off the melancholy road ahead.

"SKREEEE!"

As you journey up the cliffside road from the circle, however, it becomes clear that Triz wasn't joking about the inhabitant Pokémon as a screeching Tangela suddenly lunges at you from the shrubbery; its vines swinging and pulsing about in a most alarming manner...


Lacrima Castle

Moonlit Garden

Thunder Punch
Moving across the bridge guarded by beasts of stone, you soon find that your Ledian is much the one leading the way instead, scattering glittering dust from her beating wings as she flies about, energised by the moonlight beaming down on the two of you. Stepping onto a tiled path, you round a junction with Ledah barely in sights; her powder trail the only distinct hint of her magical midnight flight. With the garden's flora surrounding you along with the faint, yet pleasant scents of their nocturnal blossoms, you feel your muscles relax and your mind mellow -- not in a sad way, but as though you've been cut off from the rest of the world entirely in this realm of night. If anything, Ledah certainly doesn't seem to mind; indeed, as you note, she seems very much at home in a world coded to her unique colour scheme.

Finally catching up with Ledah in a collection of garden shrubbery, spinneys and trees, you watch quietly as she flits about in wonderment as though searching for something, when a piercing sound tears through the night air and sends jolts down your nerves and bones. The powerful dissonance does not escape Ledah's notice either; as two of her hands shield the sides of her head in irritation you sense the sounds of sharp swooping above you. Peering upwards you find a large shadow hovering towards you with outstretched wings, moonlight glinting off four fangs lining a mouth wide open in murderous glee.

"GOLBAT!" shrieks the shadow, folding its wings around its sides for a dive, plummeting metre by metre with a distinctly hungry look in its eyes...


Nelde Ruins

Wiese Forest

Excessive Spare Time
"You, Miss? Help me?" Furtively the man brings his fingers thoughtfully to his bearded chin, and almost instantly you feel despair creep into your mind. Your experiences with other humans, as your memory proves, have never been particularly happy; would your offer of involvement result in similar tragedy?

"I have to admit, I can't say I'm too fond of the idea. Not that I don't like you, y'know; it's just... well, I mean no offence, Miss, but I don't see us as a particularly strong team. Even Cormag and I have had rough scrapes every now and then; nearly lost a finger or limb to rampaging vines and bushes," explains Duessel. "What I mean is, Miss, I'm worried I can't guarantee your safety. Much as your Pokémon should have an advantage -- that is, assuming elemental affinities haven't changed in the forty-five years I've been gone -- the environment isn't what anyone would call easy meat." Casting a look at your sleeping comrades you briefly recall the last few moments of the fight you had when you entered the forest, nodding softly at Duessel's remark.

"I appreciate your kind feedback, Miss, really. Maybe it's the lack of human interaction; if not for Cormag's company I might've forgotten how to talk." Mulling it over as he finishes off the remainder of his stew, Duessel eventually stands up. "Well, in any case, you shouldn't be up any longer. You'll only exhaust yourself if you don't allow enough time for a recovery; you could collapse just as easily if your body hasn't strengthened itself back after weakening by poison. You can rest on the moss, it's soft like cotton -- besides, going by what you told me, you slept like a log buried in ruins, so this should be alright, no? Ha ha, just my little joke, Miss. Goodnight."

As Duessel retreats to his own corner for the night, you ease yourself aside feeling renewed lethargy slink in. In all honesty, you find that uncertainty is the dominant mood you're experiencing; a thought that lingers as eventually, you fall asleep on your side.

***

"Ah, you're finally awake." Greeted by the gentle, sweet smell of poached fruit, you rise from your curled position on the floor as Duessel notes this. Around the fire, the three Pokémon happily greet you respectively before continuing their meals of exotic-looking pods and berries, laid out on broad leaves. "Cormag and I usually head out early for gathering breakfast to avoid most of the Pokémon -- they don't usually come out in the wee hours of the morning until just before dawn, although it can be quite murderous to see then.

"Once we're done here, though, we'll see if we can't make any headway. You did offer, you know," he says with a wink, handing you another bowl of sweetly steaming stew with some more tattered paper on the side. Casually you take a glance at the doorway, and much to your astonishment the morning forest is in a rich spectrum of deep reds and browns.

"Yep, surprised me too when I started camping -- well, living -- out here. The colour seems to change every few days, and I'm not entirely sure why. The only thing I can glean is that it might have something to do with that paper I passed you -- I scrawled instructions left behind some sign I passed by, years ago wandering in the forest, but I gave up when... was it months? Years? Hmmmm."

Picking up the paper along with a spoon of pink and red pulp, you look over the new instructions which seem no less bizarre than the others Duessel handed you the day before:

Blastoise: White Snow
Ho-oh: Bright Sun
Flygon: Blooming Flowers
Purugly: Vivid Leaves
The forest shall shift as the seasons change.
Time passes in cycles.
Direction is overseen by the Four Symbols.

It's certainly quite worthy of stumping Duessel for so long, but do you think you've a chance at solving this conundrum?


Tetyth City

Tetyth Lake

Cod of War
Spurred by a series of mental images that left a tidal wave's worth of questions in your mind, you decide on the location for your next adventure, accompanied by your trusted Lunatone and Swampert as you blaze a trail (or might that be a misnomer, considering the damp conditions?) through the waters of Tetyth Lake. A majestic waterbody in itself, reflecting the bright clear sky above you, Tetyth Lake almost seems like any other great lake if not for the living legend at its very epicentre. Prompted by Meteos, the three of your forge forward through the lake; you and Lunatone both certain that the answer -- if one indeed does exist, hopefully -- lies in the fabled ruins half sunken in Tetyth's depths, as the third member of your group forges valiantly on leaving frothing ripples in his wake.

Ten minutes into the journey, however, you notice Wraith starting to struggle somewhat visibly, and looking up you spot Meteos orbiting about with apparent confusion set in his deep red gaze. 'There's something not quite right, Jamie,' informs the psychic rock, frowning as he hovers next to your head, 'Wraith's been going around and around in circles, and he doesn't seem to be struggling eith -- look out!'

Alerted by Meteos' sudden warning, Wraith barely avoids a large, snaking tendril that comes slashing out of the water, and feeling the water abruptly churn you realise what your Lunatone has been observing: without any of you noticing the water you've been caught in a sudden current, spiralling in a movement you recognise to be the Whirlpool attack in action. Now certain that the tables have taken a turn for the worse, Wraith begins swimming against the current earnestly to secure your safety, but the vortex is clearly within its later stages and between pushing against the current and dodging a storm of tentacles, you find Wraith being slowly but surely pulled towards the whirlpool's eye.

'It's coming.'

Feeling the blood drain out of your face at Meteos starkly whispered message, you see a domed head rise from the waters as stormclouds start gathering in the skies above you; a pair of crystals bearing the ruby shade of blood reflecting random flashes of lightning while two beady, inscrutable eyes glare at all three of you. A screech announces the Tentacruel's murderous intent, and with yet another tentacle poised to strike it almost seems to beckon you under its steady gaze...