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Post by Manic on May 1, 2019 6:59:35 GMT
ghostwriter85 Sweet, thanks! I may call on you for that. And so...the end for Rex. Gyarados never had on-type moves until Gen 4. I forgot that it got them in Platinum, and Rex paid with his life. Not only that, but now the team knows the truth about Manic and his wasting disease. And yet, nothing seems to stop them...
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Post by crimsondoom on May 1, 2019 16:08:39 GMT
I just want to say that I love this rejoinder. In a run with already-great dialogue at every turn, this remains one of my favorite sequences.
I've already mourned Rex, but nonetheless, this seems appropriate:
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Post by Manic on May 2, 2019 6:13:04 GMT
Update #12: Fortification
July 5th - 6th
Really? Because you seem sort of like an enormous tool to me. I care precious little for what you think of me, short-sighted buffoon. Hey! Nobody talks to my trainer that way! Calm yourself, Lucille. Be patient, and watch for an opportunity to present itself. If you're so anxious to change the world, why not start by leaving it? Baby, you sure this is a good idea? You can't back down when this kind of person tries to wreck things, Roxy. They only understand one thing. Then die. One step ahead of you!
(insert sounds of Cyrus being humiliated in combat)
Perhaps you may yet be of some use to me. Uh, are you not listening at all? I'm not going to help you with anything. Be cautious, Manic. This man has charisma and drive, and that can be a dangerous combination. Oh, I think that you will. For now, though, I take my leave. Your whole team is on the floor, / You sad sack, deluded lout! / So leave, and don't let the door / Hit your butt on the way out! What an idiot. You said it, ma'am. Are you all right? I may be better than all right. You seem to be a strong, capable trainer. Perhaps you can be the one to stop my granddaughter. Who? Champion Cynthia. The girl has always been obsessed with power, but now she's studying the legends...I'm afraid of what she might be planning. I want you to take and use this.
Ma'am, I can't thank you enough! Bah, don't give me that. You can thank me by putting an end to my granddaughter's ambitions, whatever they are. I don't know what she's doing, but I doubt she has Sinnoh's best interests at heart. I will. I already have a score to settle with her. You don't say? She...she murdered two of my friends by proxy. Ordered their deaths. She was such a kind little girl. I wonder what went wrong. Be well, Manic. Hold the memories of your friends in your heart, they will see you through the dark times. Thank you. I will. For now, I have to train for the times ahead. Train on, trainer. At the risk of co-opting Orville's mannerisms...where to?
Everywhere. Wow! Look at all these places! If you'd told me when I was still a Scyther that I'd be seeing all of this...thank you! *broad smile* Lots to do, lots to see! / Fight, fly, smash, swim! / Cave life just is not for me, / Manic showed me: thanks to him! Heh, don't thank me yet. The hardest parts are still ahead. Come what may, we remain your stalwart allies. You have nothing to fear so long as we stand by your side. I will fight in your name as long as I am able. Roxy's got your back, baby! Don't you forget it! Never have, never will. Now, let's see what else we can find!
The back side of Floaroma, looks like. And a small hoard of goodies! And a new teammate, it would appear. Yyyyep. You ain't gonna use her? Why would I? There is no need for another water type on the team, with two already present. *nod* What they said.
(And, while in the Fuego Ironworks...)
Finally, I have reached my full potential! *beam* Wow, check you out! I'm going to have to disagree. Say what?! We've just seen his evolution! / Now you say that you're dismayed? / He'll be our final solution! / Could it be...have we been played? Not at all. I'm just saying, he's not yet at his full potential...but I've been planning and preparing for this. You've been planning and preparing for twenty-plus levels? I shudder to think what you may have concocted! Aw, don't shudder, Nero.
Now, our enemies? THEY should be shuddering. I stand corrected. *jawdrop* ...whoah... Diell, you were powerful before. Now you're a walking wrecking ball. Baby, I think you just got shown up! Yes, I must agree. Isn't it splendid? Say what? We're all on the same team, my dear. If one of us gets stronger, we all benefit. 'My dear'? Oh, wait. While we're here...
You know, just for good measure. *grin* Now, let's see about making it to Canalave.
Huh? Oh, hey! Long time no see. You're looking, uh, well. It's okay. They know. I'm sorry. I thought you should know...you're starting to gain some renown. Be careful out there; there are people who mean you harm, and your fame might become a liability. Renown? Me? Have you not been paying attention? You've beaten FIVE gyms so far. And it looks like you're getting ready for a sixth, am I right? Well, yeah. Not ready yet, but working on it. So? Manic, nobody does that. Most people give up after Gardenia makes mincemeat out of them! Most people have a future to think of. ...I... I didn't expect you to have an answer to that. Don't worry, I'm sure there's nothing I can't handle.
Wait, what? I said, someone should chec- No, I heard you. That sounded... ...borderline coherent? Only about half as crazy as usual? Weird. For once, I don't want to smack him! Manic? Yeah? You're limping. ...fuck.
(And then we faced off against Spaz. Went pretty much how you'd expect.)
I wonder if it's actually made of iron? If it is, how does it float? Well, that didn't last long. *frown* Then you sense it too. What is it that's going on? / Everyone seems really tense. / Come now, psychic pokemon! / What is all this that you sense? Even now, there is an undercurrent of...something. It remains unclear for the moment. *nod* All right, folks. Keep your eyes open. If Diell AND Franklin sense something amiss, there's definitely something going on. ...Nero, am I really limping? Just a little bit. It's all right, it's barely noticeable. For now, we train. If Iron Island really is that rough, we need to prepare for it.
Hell yeah! That's what I'm talking about! Very nice! One of your four final moves. Four final moves? Sure, for your optimal moveset. You'll learn another a little later. I wish I were so fortunate. Baby, what're you complainin' about? You ARE optimized! She's right, Diell. Top of your game! Now, everybody ready for Iron Island?
Sure looks like it.
Oh, uh...thanks? Interesting. Wait, is this what you were sensing before? *shakes head* I must agree with Franklin. This is simply unusual. This man stands waiting for us, hands us a valuable resource, but is not powerful enough to traverse the cave on his own. Now that we're receiving fame, / Looks like we are in demand! / If he's weak, though, just the same? / Why not lend a helping hand? You have a point. Sure, we'll join you downstairs once we've done a little cleanup.
Has anyone noticed they have no railings here? Nothing to keep people from falling to their deaths? I suppose that's one way to train and simultaneously weed out the unfit. Manic, do you need someone to lean on? I'll be all right, Lucille. Thanks, though, and I may take you up on that. Honeychild, you don't look so good.
*arches brow* Now, that brings back memories. Let's just keep his gift employed, / Let him do his thing with healing! / I, for one, am overjoyed / To focus on damage dealing! Woo-hoo, training party! No. What do you mean, 'no'? I urge you to move through this place at a good clip. There is something waiting for us at the end, but we can lose it here if we are not cautious. You sure about this? I can feel it. Something important. I'm willing to run with it. We can train anywhere.
Wow. Uh...you weren't kidding about him needing help. And yet, that isn't why he accompanied us. Friend, if you have more information, I ask that you share it with us. I am sorry, Nero. I sense feelings, impressions. Not direct information. *pat pat* Hmmm. Franklin seems to think that we are safe, for the moment. Very well. Thank you for the explanation.
Well, that wasn't too bad. Hey...where'd the egg come from? It's all right, Roxy's got it. Oh, can I see it? All right, all right, just be careful! I think it's moving! Reminds me of...hey, wait a second. What's that?
Manic! Is that... It sure looks like it to me! A Shiny Stone, definitely. What of it? *leap!* Hmmm. For the moment, we hatch the egg. After that and a little training, there's someone I'd like you to meet.
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Post by Manic on May 2, 2019 9:28:49 GMT
Diell goes full beast mode after catching up with the team, Nero shows a bit of perspective, and even Spaz is a little less...Spaz-y?
Lots of subtle things going on in this update. Little pushes in the right directions. See how many you can spot!
And brace yourself. That egg isn't just for show!
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Post by Manic on May 3, 2019 7:46:55 GMT
Update #13: On The Rocks - vs. Byron
July 7th - 11 days remain
Well, that didn't take too long. Hiya! Hello there, little one. Who're you guys? Well, I'm Manic. This is Nero, Roxanne, Lucille, Zelda, Franklin, and Diell. Oh, okay. Um, who am I? I don't know. Why not tell me a little about your thoughts?
I wanna be the very best, like no one ever was! Ambitious. I'll show you ambitious! C'mere! *thwack* I will teach you, child...but not like this. Take it easy, baby! He's new! Well, that tears it, then. Your name is Icarus. Icarus...cool! How come? Icarus is the name of a mythical figure with great potential. He was struck down by his own hubris when he flew too close to the sun. *questioning look* It's a bit of a cheat, I'm afraid. 'Diell' is Albanian for 'sun'. Baby, you an' I need to talk. Alone. Huh? Well...sure, okay.
I'm gonna hang out here, okay? Y'all just call me if you need me. Wait. You mean, for keeps? Do I look like the kinda girl's gonna stay around here forever? You gonna need me, honey...but now, Icarus needs you. Roxy's gonna fill every slot with HMs. Roxy... I ask that you honor her wishes, Manic. The hell you doin' here? You are smart enough to have known that this needed to be done, and I have a personal stake in this as well. Personal? You are a beautiful woman, Roxanne. I cannot have you endangering yourself needlessly. I want you to stay safe here until I can return for you. Oh, baby...you can call me Roxy. C'mere. Er... Sugar, you know Roxy's your friend. Yeah, I do. Now get lost. Oh, uh, right. I'll just go for a while.
(A little later...)
So, everybody ready for the gym? Yeah! I'll give them such a pounding! No, you won't. You'll watch what the others do and learn from them. Aw, man! I do not like to admit this, / As it's most embarrassing... / I'll let all you others hit this. / I won't even leave a ding! I'm kinda in the same boat, here. I mean, I really want to help, but...none of my moves will really do much. *pensive look* It's all right, guys. Nero and Diell can totally handle this. Diell is super-effective all day long, and when you consider that Steel is usually partnered with Rock or Ground, so is Nero.
Yeah, I have. So, what's your tie to Cynthia? Nothing special. I work the mine and make steel. I ship it to her for a fair price. And you don't care what she's doing? Couldn't possibly care less. Even if she ruins Sinnoh in the process? You sound like Roark. Look, kid. I mine. I sell. Some people are good, some people are bad. What the hell do I care? I make enough money to keep Canalave running like a smoothly oiled machine, and I've been promised a hefty bonus if I can stop you cold. Greed, then. You're doing this for greed. The oldest and best motive, kid.
And, in the end, the only one that matters. Let's see if your mentality pays off. Diell, you're up!
Nooooo! How could you do this?! Maybe he's not really so bad? That looks like real emotion to me, at least. My profit margins! Do you know how much I'll have to pay the Day Care to raise these three in level enough to beat you?! Hmph, it was all just a show. / But he's sharp, let's just be fair. / It's not that he doesn't know / It's just that he doesn't care! The only thing you fight for is your pocketbook, Byron. It's cost you your son, don't you care about that at all? That kid? Hmph, he's kept me in the red his whole life. His mine makes terrible profits, too! Disgusting man. C'mon, everyone. This chump isn't worth our time.
Wait, did that just happen? *stare* We should make haste to go with him. Are you sure? He always seems to be causing trouble. He's weird! That is precisely why we should make haste. Spaz? In a library? Nero makes a valid point. Damn right, he does. Let's hurry!
Wait. If they're mirages, why are we going after them? Who cares? I'll help you find the mirage pokemon! Er, Spaz? You know what 'mirage' means, right? I don't think he knows what 'means' means! Of course I do! But just to make sure you do, why not say it out loud? Ugh. It means they're imaginary, Spaz. You know, not real? So? If you're going to let a little thing like 'not existing' get in the way, you'll never be a real master! Uh, Manic? You've got a little something under your nose, right there. Impressive. I've never seen someone's nose bleed from a conversation before.
Spaz, to Lake Acuity. Manic, I need you at Lake Valor; I think it may be in the most danger. Danger? I've been checking up on Team Galactic. I believe that the bombing in Pastoria was only a trial run. Cyrus seems to believe that the power of those three pokemon will allow him to remake the world in his image. What, seriously? That would explain the weird stuff he's been doing. So we'd all be living on a big replica of his face? Cool, dibs on the eyelid!
Manic! You recognize this sound, do you not?! You better believe I do. The bomb in Pastoria made the same sound! That was AWES-SHUT UP OR I WILL PUNCH YOU. Lucille, get the TV. Franklin, make a quick round of the building. Lucille, Diell, go with him. If anyone is hurt, help them to the pokemon center. *nod* I'm on it! Right away. Whoah. Leadership! Just doing what needs to be done...sweet Arceus, look at that. That's Lake Valor! Okay, everybody out!
Lake Acuity is north of here, by Snowpoint! The entrance is on the west side of Celestic! When you're done, meet me there! And he's gone. He makes my head hurt! I just don't know what to make / Of the things that I just heard. / Could it all just be a fake? / That was lucid, every word! I think...hmmm. I think I'm starting to understand, but I could be wrong. I need to know more. Can it wait? We do have more pressing matters, let me remind you! Damn right it can. Zelda, we need a lift!
Oh hell no. I know you did not just threaten my hometown! Sorry, kid, your home's in the way! You're in the way! Lucille, clock him upside the head. Whoah...you dropped him like a rock! Stick with me, you'll learn something! Talk later, move now! We're already behind the game on this one, we need progress here! We must keep pace with you. No, you must find their commander and stomp him flat! Don't wait for me!
Great, another freak with bad hair. We don't have time for this! Your face has bad hair! Oh, let's just skip to the end of this. Your mom's face has bad hair because she grew a mustache after flossing with your dead grandmother's pubes! Gggh...oh, that's foul! Aaaaand endgame! Battle now! Make it quick, team!
Sorry for the rapid beating! / There's no time for fun and things! / We're late for another meeting! / Order up, and give it wings! Clean, smooth, efficient. Inhale, win, exhale. That's what I'm talking about! Maybe we can make it home in time!
... Ouch. Especially poignant. I sense only general malice. I doubt he knows. I would stem it for you if I could, Manic. Honest. I know you would. For now, this guy is harmless, let's get home. I have to warn my mom!
Mom, listen. Those goons from Team Galactic are headed this way, and they have bombs. What? Then you need to stay inside! That's the opposite of what I need to do. I need to get out there and put a stop to them! That seems terribly dangerous! I'm not the least bit worried. My team is more than enough to face them down, but I want you to get into the basement and stay there for the next hour. Do you understand? Well, I...do you really think so? Mom, I couldn't live with myself if you got hurt over this. Just go, okay? All right, honey. Be safe. I will, I promise.
Tell me something I don't know! Mind your P's and Q's, young man! People still say that? Sorry, Professor. Wait, where's Dawn? She's up there tangling with their Commander, but I can't get past these goons! She's what?! Lucille, Diell, clear a path. We must forge through their defenses and rescue Manic's friend! Are you ready, Lucille? Heh, just try to keep up! Manic, is your pokemon giving orders? That's Nero, and he's a genius. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go help Dawn! Zelda, I need you on aerial support! Franklin, keep them guessing; I don't want them to know where the next hit is coming from! Icarus, you stay behind me and Nero, you're not ready for this yet! This sucks! When do I get to play? Soon, I promise, but we don't have time for this now!
Damn right, I remember. You were holding an innocent kid's father hostage! I've been itching for some payback! There's a cream for that, I think. You...don't you dare laugh at me! As I recall, you weren't much of a challenge before. Let's see if that's changed.
Nope. Not even a little! That was pathetic. *shakes head*
But I just beat you! Sure you did! Way to go, you get a gold star. Win the battle, lose the war! Manic, if she's being serious... Serious or not, she's out of here like her butt was on fire. I think we have bigger problems, though...
...and that's exactly what I was thinking. Manic, you've defeated Spaz at every turn. If he truly is being faced with the entirety of Team Galactic... Then he could be in serious danger! That's bad, right? It sure is. He may be annoying and flaky, and probably a little mentally unfit, but he's still a friend. Sort of. Please listen to my advice, / Let's stop yammering and run! / Spaz might wind up put on ice / Before all is said and done! Zelda's got a point. Let's get to Celestic in a hurry!
Manic, you must temporarily box me. Roxanne is needed for this portion of your trip. Going through Coronet, I'm not really that surprised. We'll be back for you soon, Diell. I know y'all would need Roxy's help soon! We have a new HM for you, my sweet. Aww, that's awful sweet. Ya smooth talker. Ewwwwww. You'll understand when you're older, small fry. Between you and me, kiddo, I agree. Bleah. *snicker*
Fffff-f-f... Baby, this cold can't be good for you. Huddle close for warmth. What? No, Nero! I assure you, my dear, I have no untoward intentions. That's not what I mean. We're steel types, Nero. We'll freeze them solid! All r-right. Lucille has a p-point. Nero, Lucille, out in front, help us g-get through. Zelda, k-keep to the skies and look for shelter. Roxanne, you and Franklin and Icarus stay close by, we keep each other warm. I don't like it here. *shiver* Me neither, b-but Spaz is on the other side of this Arceus-forsaken p-place, and he needs us!
Oh, thank heavens. You ain't even gotta ask me twice! I have an idea. Nero, stay close to the space heater. As close as you can bear. Lucille, soak up what heat you can from Nero. This is...highly uncomfortable, Manic. What is your plan? Heat? Seriously? For me? Both of you are going to go to your tolerance for warmth. When we leave again, the heat will make it take longer to chill you, and we'll all benefit from it. Wow, will it work? Icarus, should it not work, / I will find it a surprise. / Manic's not some random jerk, / At times he can be quite wise!
Aw. It's okay. With no way to evolve it right now and a relatively low level, it'd take too long to train as a replacement.
Oh m-m-my Arceus I h-h-hate this p-p-place s-s-so much... H-h-here's your j-justice, M-manic...I c-can't go on...g-gonna d-die here... N-no. You're n-not. Take this. Manic, have you taken leave of your senses?! Baby, you can't just give her your jacket! But what'll you do? I'll k-keep going...keep pushing f-forward...d-don't you stop either! You're serious? I can have this? G-get going...b-before I change my m-mind!
I b-bet.
Don't be rude, now! Say hello! ... H-hello?? ... I fear something may be wrong. Zelda, lean against him for a moment. *gulp* You ask if there's something wrong? / Let's eliminate the if! / He's not gonna last for long! / MANIC HERE IS FROZEN STIFF! N-no, he can't be! He's still got a pulse! Awright, leaderman, what now? We need to get him somewhere warm, and that's Snowpoint! Everyone who isn't a Steel type, grab him! Everyone who is, clear a path! Triple time, every second counts!
And why are your pokemon carrying you? Stop being lazy! Ignore him, keep moving! Manic will be pleased to hear he's all right, but only if he survives!
At least the snow's letting up! But I'm...so tired... *pant, pant* Don't stop now, we're almost there! Give him to me. You can't be serious. You couldn't hope to carry him alone! I just watched a boy - a MAN - throw himself into a frozen hell to save his friend, and then give his jacket to an enemy to save her life.
I'll be damned if he dies on my watch.
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Post by Manic on May 3, 2019 7:49:41 GMT
And there you have it. From hatching to evolution in a single update, and Icarus is on the team!
And...Roxanne is down to a supplementary role. As she eventually had to be, let's be real. With Diell taking the box when necessary.
Don't judge someone by how much suffering they cause, judge them by how much suffering they soothe.
Though maybe Manic could stand to be a little less ice, no matter how cool it seems. Maybe Maylene will chill? Or maybe her attitude will stay frosty. Additional cold pun!
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Post by red5 on May 3, 2019 12:53:57 GMT
I'm absent for a few days and... RIP, Rex and Manic's secret. Geez. I'm thinking that Shiny Stone isn't just for show either, though. I kind of love these parts of your runs, I gotta admit, where everything starts coming together, and you're able to start honing and optimizing your teams. EDIT: Whoops, had the tab open from last night, missed that there was an update in between. And puns? Careful, that kind of thing might put you on thin ice with your readers; some of them might even give you the cold shoulder.
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Post by Firebrand on May 3, 2019 13:48:23 GMT
I'm kind of surprised Roxy lasted as long as she did, all things considered, especially after a couple close shaves in Pastoria. Her relationship with Nero has been really fun to watch develop, so I'm glad she managed to live to retirement, rather than the alternative, and it seems like her whole character arc is done. Plus,on a mechanical level, a Lucario is just a better choice for team comp. But even so, Manic's team as it stands seems to focus pretty heavily on fighting and steel types, which are both pretty solid and have decent resistances/effectiveness against what Manic is going to be going up against for the rest of the run. Steel and fighting will do fine against Candice, Galactic is going to keep being a push-over (I figure Franklin's coverage will make Cyrus a breeze), and Lucille, Icarus and Diell can probably handle Volkner between them. Then iirc the e4 is fire, ground, bug and psychic, but I totally forget the order. Not really a lot to worry about there.
But now we're going into seventh badge territory, which is about the time in the past two runs where Manic started to get multiverse aware. Franklin dropped a few hints a while ago, but especially considering that this is the first face-off against the time/space/darkness trio, Manic Courageous is probably going to give the reader the best glimpse into the "backstage" we've had to date.
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Post by crimsondoom on May 3, 2019 15:31:26 GMT
Formatting didn't make the jump, but in the original post this isn't bolded, and context suggests it ought to be.
As for the update itself, rereading this makes it abundantly clear how Icarus's personality was shaped by Manic the whole way. Manic did a good job of letting him decide for himself who he wanted to be, but that one act of heroism is Icarus's first major formative moment, and I suspect the most significant one he'll ever have.
Speaking of Icarus, though, I'm curious: what's the logic behind Michael's mindset being like a toddler to start with but Icarus being more like an 8-year-old's maturity level? Species difference, or some other factor I'm not seeing?
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Post by Manic on May 4, 2019 7:34:46 GMT
Update #14: Out of Control - vs. Candice
July 8th - Part 1
Y-yeah, that sounds...wait a minute. What? C-candice? You mean the gym leader Candice? Well, sure. Why not? This may be the safest place for her. Anyone who planned to come here would have to brave that arctic wasteland. Jeez, Icarus. You're really different, huh? That sort of trial changes a person, Manic. You should know better than anyone. If you have any objections, this might be an opportune time to state them. Look, Maylene. Didn't you say that the gym leaders are all working for Cynthia? Uh... If Candice is taking orders from her, and she wants you dead... Right! So, like I said, I'm going to hole up in Snowpoint Temple for a while. There you go. Me, I'm going to go see what's out there.
Boxed forever. Is there a particular reason? Gah! Diell, don't sneak up on me like that! Do try to be more aware of your surroundings. Roxanne returned to the box, freeing me to return to the team. I know that this has been a difficult time for you, but you must stay alert. Rrrrright. Anyway, yeah. Seven reasons. So she's destined for the box. / Kindly share with us your mind? / There's some time, let's start some talks: / Seven reasons of what kind? Bug, Fighting, Fire, Flying, Poison, Rock, Steel. That's...a lot of reasons! She's got a quad weakness to fire like you, Lucille...but six more normal ones. Wow! Even as a Scyther, I didn't have it that bad! So, yeah. Let's move on.
Learning some moves... You really think I should keep this? Even with X-Scissor? No doubt about it. Anything ghostly we face will wet itself. Can ghosts do that? Ummmm...yyyyyes. I'm going to say 'yes'. And if you don't give them fits, I will. Icarus, you'll give anything fits. That's a compliment, right? *nod* Well, all right, then.
Okay, let's review the basics. I'm resistant to ice, so I'm a good go-to for anything that doesn't have ground, fighting, or electric attacks. Nothing in there is going to have a fire move, and I'm resistant to ice, so I'm in! I'm worried about ground and fighting, though. Looks like a vacation spot! / Staying year-round could be nice. / Just one problem that it's got: / All the wretched freezing ice! *skeptical look* Keep me away from ghost and flying attacks, and my Fire Punch will fell our enemies. Glad we're all on the same page. Let's get in there!
Oh, wait! Here he is, I have to hang up. Right...talk to you later. Okay! Uh...hello? Sorry, sorry. You know how it is. Actually, I don't. I don't even own a cell phone. Wow. I'd rather die th...oh, wow. Awkward! Sorry! So you know about that, huh? Well, yeah. The guy who beat six gyms rolls into town frozen like a block of ice, word gets around! What now, then? I kill you, of course. W-wait. What? I kill you. See, everybody has their role, right? Maylene was the muscle, Crasher Wake is the clown, Gardenia weeds out challengers...ha! Weeds out. Get it? Uh, yeah, but there's the whole- Right, I'm getting to it. Byron is the supply line. Me? I just go and kill anyone who needs to die. I'm a problem-solver! Isn't that COOL? If she starts making ice puns, I will punch her in the face. It's not so cool when I'm the one you're supposed to kill!
Oh, quit being such a baby. I'll make it quick!
(scene of Piloswine's defeat omitted due to graphic violence)
What the hell was that?! Didn't I tell you? That was my team. I've gathered some of the biggest badasses from all over Sinnoh. But that's my bit! Evidently not. Yeah, what Nero said. Sorry, Candice, guess you're going to need a new line of work. And a new home, and a new face... Or, you could help me defeat Cynthia and not have to worry about any of those things. Defeat...HA! Now, that's funny. I'm getting out of here while I still have legs!
Here you are, my dear. Another HM for you to learn. Baby, you know you're spoilin' ol' Roxy. Ah, I apologize, then. Perhaps I should- I didn't tell you to stop, fool! Roxy, we need your help. Now that we can use Rock Climb, we have to follow Spaz, he might be in trouble! What?! What the hell we standin' round here for? Hey, Pinky! Hold the fort. That's Diell. You say it your way, I'll say it mine.
Were you actually trying? How did my foolproof strategy lose?! I'm guessing you couldn't actually implement it. How did you know? It's foolproof, right? Stands to reason you couldn't touch it. Damn, girl! Is it bad if I actually like her a little? Don't allow yourself to become distracted. She's a criminal like the rest, she needs to be brought to justice. You know, if you keep making that face, it'll freeze that way. IT'S TWENTY BELOW. IT IS FROZEN THIS WAY. Oh, uh, right. Sorry. Mr. Sensitive.
That we did. Interesting fact: I already did what I came to do. You don't say? That's right, the legendary pokemon of this lake isn't even here anymore. True, but I could stop you here and now, now that Spaz softened you up. Maybe. And maybe I could take out a few of your pokemon on the way down. Or take Spaz as a hostage. ... The smart choice is to let me leave. You know that. Damn it. Look, if you really want them back, we're in Veilstone. Anyway, I need to get going, it's really cold here. Tell me about it...
Spaz? This isn't a game anymore...this isn't fun anymore... They're all caught now, come what may / Seems they've given us the slip. / Now for Spaz, is he okay? / Sounds like he's losing his grip! In truth, it sounds like he's finding it. This ain't like him. She musta whooped him good! Spaz, are you okay? I can still hear it screaming...Manic, we have to stop them! We have to! Calm down, calm down. We will. You go get your pokemon healed. I'm going to Veilstone. This stops today.
Come on, let's go talk alone. / I don't want people to panic. / I know this will make you groan...
...but it's time to box me, Manic. Ffffwha? You're serious? This I've been anticipating, / Michael's temperament is mild. / Come on now, don't keep him waiting! / Time to bring in that poor child! But who'll...oh, right. I guess he can learn Fly, can't he... He'll contribute to the fight, / Freeing me to be your friend. / Calm down, it'll be all right. / It's not like this is the end! You're...you're right, I guess. He could be an asset. I just don't want to lose you...but I guess that's why you want me to box you, isn't-huh? Franklin? She's right, Manic. The time is now. Aaaaand she fainted. She'll be fine. Let's go, there's much to do, and little time.
Hi, mom! It's been a while! Hi, Michael! Have you been well? Sure! Everyone's been pretty cool. Hey, does me being here mean you find a Shiny Stone? That it does! Hello, child. My name is- Well, I'm not really a child anymore, but of course I know you! Everyone in the box knows the story about how Diell got out and proved himself! Come again? Sure! Oh, I get it! None of you really spend much time in the box. I don't even recognize the new guy! Icarus. Nice to meet you, kid.
Hey, look, Michael. There's something I have to tell you. Is it about the disease? 'Cause everyone inside knows about that now. That sucks! No, no, not that. Well, yes, that too, but there's something else. Oh, wow. Okay, sounds serious. What's up? I'm...not actually your mom, Michael.
OH MY ARCEUS you still think I think...oh, man...oh, it hurts...! Well, I mean... Oh man, oh man...what? What is it? You called me 'mom'. Just now. I know, right? TOTALLY worth it....just take the damn stone.
Asshole. Hey, c'mon. No hard feelings, right? Yeah, yeah. Just made me look like a chump. Manic. You know you're my friend, right? You know I'd do anything for you, right? Sure, what about it? I just want you to know, no matter what...that was priceless. Oh, that was too good! Ffffff...let's just go get you dicks some moves! High five! Uh... Oh yeah. Sorry.
Whoah, seriously? Seriously. We need you to have Fly, but a 60% chance to flinch, a 40% chance to confuse, and a 40% chance to lower special defense are nothing to sneeze at. Wow. Now I feel like kind of a prick for the prank back there. Aw, it's okay. Really? Yeah, you can make me laugh any time you talk. Aw, that's swee- hey, wait a minute! I believe that is known as 'blowback'. Face it, kid. You walked right into that one. Yeah, yeah. I'll get him back, just you wait! You've lost the element of surprise. Good luck.
Can...I have it? Yes, you are making for big entrance into base! Go for defeat the Team Galactic! Huh. I guess I was wrong about you. Aw, don't worry, you can't help having bad judgment!Yeah, sometimes I just have to live with bad choices, like passing on Orville for a floating marshmallow. Wha...I...?!Just give up, Michael. You got the better of him once, enjoy that victory for what it was.All right, all right. Enough for now. We need to get in there and free those pokemon. Finally, kiddie fun time is over. What's the plan?
We get in there with the storage key, find the key laying around...
...sneak into Cyrus' big speech without anyone noticing...
...listen to him prattle for a bit...and then take him by surprise! That is the most half-cocked, asinine, disorganized, unrealistic, deluded, risky, and altogether half-baked plan I've ever heard! There's no chance it could possibly work!
How does that even...?! A critical flaw in your logic, my friend. One that should have already been apparent due to your experiences thus far. I didn't want to say anything. Franklin? *shakes head* Is it the fact that your plan would only fail if these guys had a brain between them? Bingo. Remember, Icarus: these guys are morons.
Well, yeah. Kinda hard to miss it if you're anywhere in the building. So you've come to stop me, then. You. Alone. Well, I wouldn't say alone. *sigh* Very well then, alone with your pokemon. There we go. And yes. Frankly, I don't give two farts about your 'perfect world' idea, I just want-
...yes, I was just getting to that. Rude much? You assume that I care about your feelings. You assume incorrectly. Well, let's...let's...ggghk... Manic? This is not the time for this, Manic! Lucille, flank him until he gets back up. What if he doesn't get back up?! He will, it's not his time yet! Get up! G-good lord...ow...nothing hurts quite like one of those.
Okay, you are an absolute prick and this is going to be a pleasure.
Don't feel too bad. You couldn't possibly have been fast enough. Ow...speak for yourself, that thing hit like a ton of bricks! I must concur; that Honchkrow had blisteringly strong attacks! I'm certainly pleased that this fight has come to an end!
No. Stop. Don't throw yourself off of Mt. Coronet in despair. It's not too late oh just do it. I don't think that's what he has in mind. Hey, I can dream. Laugh while you can, I'm going to go become a god. Then you don't mind if I rescue those three pokemon? They are of no more use to me. I couldn't possibly care less. Score! Let's go.
Wow, that was surprisingly painless. JUST...don't say anything. I'm still trying very hard to forget what you said before. You mean about the mousta- SHUT UP Fine. Deal.
Great. Looks like our next stop is the summit of the largest mountain in Sinnoh. Need a lift? Sweet, I can't wait to go kick some more Galactic butt! Simpletons and followers, every one. They deserve what's coming to them. *grimace* Don't count on it being a cakewalk. I have a feeling the entire team is gonna be there. More than usual? What makes you think so?
Just a hunch.
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Post by crimsondoom on May 4, 2019 7:47:08 GMT
Another one of my all-time favorite lines! I dream of the day in which I can legitimately use this in a conversation.
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Post by Manic on May 5, 2019 1:32:50 GMT
Your time will come, I assure you. XD
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Post by Manic on May 5, 2019 10:47:31 GMT
Update #15: Priorities
July 8th, Part 2
Okay, folks. After Cyrus nearly handed our asses to us, I decided we needed to do a little more training. I've gotta admit, I DO feel stronger! Assuming no sharp increases in power, we should be prepared for what lies ahead. Don't get cocky. It's a safe bet Cyrus knows we're coming. Are you sure this is enough? To be honest? No. Trouble is, the longer we wait, the further Cyrus gets. *nod!* Okay, I get it. We need to get moving. But before we do, I have some TMs to pass out. Sweet! What do I get now? Nothing. You're pretty much optimized as you are. Buuuuut...
Excellent. This is much more suited to my fighting style than that dusty old Metal Claw attack. Oh, hey, a Fighting type move! Nice! Slash was mostly just sitting there anyway. That's precisely the point. And ThunderPunch for Franklin, because Cyrus sure seems to like his Flying types. Now are we ready to pursue those maniacs? Almost. Ugh. Do we really have time for this? Maybe not...
...but there's no way we're getting anywhere without Roxanne. I heard everything. We're climbin' Mt. Coronet, huh? Awright, y'all just stand back an' let Roxy get you there! Hi, Roxy! Hey girl! You lookin' good! They treatin' you right. As much as I hate to disrupt the reunion, Icarus is not without his valid points: time is fleeting. He has a point. Let's get the lead out, people: it's time to put an end to this Galactic stuff once and for all!
Hmmm. This isn't so bad. Indeed not. A trifle dirty, but nothing to worry about. Take care. The true danger still lies in wait. I can feel the malice radiating from the path ahead. Nothing we can't handle. Let's get in there and end them. Come on, Manic! We need to hurry! I'm trying! I'm just...not as quick as I used to be. *shoulder* Thanks, Franklin. Okay, let's speed this up a bit.
Oh, son of a BITCH. It's all right, sugar. Roxy's got ya. Well, on the upside, I can see the cave up there. We won't be stuck out in this for too long. Let's hustle, then. The sooner we get inside, the less chance of a repeat of before. Calm down, Icarus! We'll get there. It'll be okay. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that things will only be okay if we make them okay. Now let's hurry. You know, you're no fun anymore.
(inside, outside, inside, outside...)
This is ludicrous! A straight path simply must be dug to facilitate travel through this maze. *shrug* I concur, this is very inconvenient, but at least it has most likely slowed down our opposition as well. Hmmm. Good point. Also, don't forget, they are morons. Probably took them longer than it's taking us.
At last! *concerned look* You don't look well. Do you need to sit this one out? What? That's Manic you're talking to. He's not gonna stop now! Right? Of course I'm not. Thanks for the concern, but this is the whole reason we came here.
Ladies. J: Hello. I was wondering when you'd get here. M: Whereas I'm willing to wait as long as it takes to bash your head in! J: Oh, simmer down. He's here, we'll just dual battle him and get it over with. M: Rrrrgh...fine. So long as I get my revenge!
Oh, no...Spaz, this is not the time! This is really, REALLY not the time! J: Well, I suppose this makes it a little more fair. M: Who's the little freak? Hey! Smile when you're saying that! I'm Spaz, and I'm here to help Manic stop this show! J: Little boy, this is a lot more than just a show. Really? Based on your hair, I thought the circus was in town!
M: Ha! Serves you right, you little twat! Heh...I did what I could. Looks like it's your turn now! Wait a minute, you mean... Admirable. Ah, of course! Knowing that his Munchlax had no chance of victory, he spent his time healing it to draw their fire! A noble sacrifice. I assume that you can honor it properly. Can and will!
(and did!)
It's all right, Spaz. You did a good job. You really think so? I do. Looks like I can count on you when the chips are down, after all. Thanks, man! I've been waiting for years to hear that from you! It wasn't true before recently. Yeah, that makes sense. This has really changed both of us, hasn't it? It really has. For now, though, if you'll excuse me... Oh, yeah! Go do your thing!
Give it up, Cyrus. Ah, I see you came after all. I suppose it's fitting that you witness my triumph. Uh, in case you haven't noticed, nothing is happening. Yes, that is a matter of some concern. I will figure out the problem. Seriously. Give it up. Did you think you could make this work with a fake chain? That is a relief. I had no great desire to see what would happen if-
FUCK WE'RE ALL GONNA DIE.
Okay, team, spread out. I don't know what's happening, but those pillars should offer some cover. We can't just leave you here! And there aren't enough pillars in the right position for everyone to hide behind. Go! Lucille, come now. He has yet to mislead us, we must do as he says. Roxy, Lucille, you come with me to the left. Diell, Icarus, Franklin, you head right. Affirmative. Come on, you two.
You don't say. Certainly. I am magnanimous in victory. Where, by 'magnanimous', you mean 'going to kill every living thing'. Precisely. Uh...Cyrus? You should probably look behind you. Now, that's just sad. Really? Does that trick ever work? Cyrus, I'm the good guy. Remember? When the good guy says to look behind you, you should actually look behind you.
Hmmm, odd. I'm sure it's nothing.
Then nothing has eyes. Perhaps they're simply...further discoloration.
I would appear to have completely fucked myself over. It does sorta look like that, yes. Maybe if you step back nice and slow? No sudden movements? Nice force of darkness. Good force of darkness. Be a good for-HRRRK Damn it, it grabbed him and ducked into that...portal? Come on, we have to put a stop to it! We're going in there?! Manic. You know what that was, right? Sure looked like Giratina to me. Then you know where we're going. Roxy is NOT happy about this, no sir! There appears to be no other way. Franklin? Thoughts? *nodnodnod!* Well, that's one very enthusiastic yes. Okay, team, we're going in. Get ready...
Why can't this ever be easy?!
I must have it. I will have it! Wait, what?! Are you nuts? You can't catch the God of Death! Maybe you can't catch the God of Death, but I can and I will. There's too much at stake!
...but more than just that. I need it to do something for me, and it won't unless I catch it! What could you possibly want from Giratina? You already have kill squads! Hah. You couldn't be further off-base, boy. I don't want to make people die. I want to make them LIVE. I don't understand. I think you do, sugar. I know that facial expression. I've seen it elsewhere in the past. Where? You, Manic. On two separate occasions, you have worn that mask of pain. Mother...Father...Chim-Chim, Roivas, Archibald. All of them. Don't you see? I can bring them back! Giratina can bring them back! I've worked too hard, I won't be stopped nooooooow... She jumped! She has to be stopped, by whatever means necessary! I concur. That much power is not meant to be in the hands of any mortal being. Then there's only one thing to do.
We go in.
Cynthia. Look, you have to listen to me! What about your friends? What about you? ...come again? It's obvious how strong you are. You could be a real obstacle, I acknowledge that. But if you just stay out of my way, I can make Giratina give you back your friends as well. I can even make it allow you to live! ...what makes you think it can do that? I've extensively studied the legends. I know what it can and can't do. All that you've lost, all you continue to lose, can be saved! Just stay here until I'm done. ... You've made the right choice. I'm off! ...
This...this is a cure, I admit. In a way, it's better; we even get The Dave and Rex back. I dunno what to do! Which way is right? Is it just to stop her, and permit so much death? Or is it just to choose life? I d-don't want you to die. If it means we can have you back... This is a decision that only you can make, Manic. What will we do? *tug tug* ...huh? *points at portal* I...I see. Of course. Thank you, Franklin. You always know the right way. I fail to understand, I must admit. I heard him say nothing. He didn't have to. Think about it: suppose Cynthia does save us, and brings The Dave and Rex back. What then? I don't follow... Then she controls the powers of life and death. Can snuff anyone out with a thought. Are you ready for Sinnoh with Cynthia playing the role of Arceus? No. No, I believe I am not. Neither am I. Neither is anyone. Diell is right, that much power is too much for any mortal. If I die, I die...but I'm not going to bring all of Sinnoh with me. Let's go put an end to this.
Oh jeez...turn away! Which way is away?! I don't...urrrgh... This place must be playing hell with his already-shaky equilibrium. Franklin, help him walk. Let's go!
Cynthia. I've changed my mind. You can't control the forces of life or death, it's too much. Then you choose death? If it means keeping you from becoming a god? Yes. I've seen how much just being a Champion can corrupt you. Well, you might as well solve the puzzle, anyway. What? Why would I do that? I've waited for years. I can wait another week or two. A dangerous adversary. If you wait, she will play your illness against you...and when you are gone, she will solve the puzzle, with no one left to stop her. *nod* Ugh, fine. I knew you'd see it my way.
Cyrus! Don't face off against Giratina! I must. Giratina is holding the worlds in balance. Do you understand what that means? ...to be honest, I have no idea! Glad I ain't the only one's got no idea what's goin' on! The worlds are mirror images of one another, and Giratina is maintaining this world. *eyes widen* Manic, we must hurry! Cyrus and Cynthia must both be stopped! Huh? If Giratina is maintaining this world, then if it is destroyed, this world will be destroyed. Merciful Arceus! And if the two worlds are mirror images of one another...! ...then our world is destroyed too, and Cyrus gets his wish! Get back here! Goodbye, Manic.
Urgh...I looked down...*blargh* If only we could carry you! We could, but even one misstep and he'd go tumbling over the edge! Franklin, help me out. It's all right, baby, Roxy's...here. Aw, hell. *distressed* All right...I'm all right. Come on. We have no t-time for this. What is the trouble, my dear? He just got sick over the edge... Yes, I saw. I ain't happy with how much red was in that. ...damn.
At least it's kinda fun. I can't even tell which way we're going! Forward, honey. We're goin' forward. That may be the best answer possible at this time; Distortion World seems to be only loosely based in reality.
You know, you two should really hook up. I beg your pardon? Excuse me? Sure! Look at all you've got in common. He's a criminal and a psychopath! Still not seeing the differences. She's a monster controlled by hate and grief. ...waiting for differences here. That does it.
IF ANY OF YOU FIGHT HERE, I WILL PUSH YOU INTO THE ABYSS. Ow, my ears! *cringe* What in the name of... CYRUS. I HAVE TAKEN THE MEASURE OF YOUR TEAM. NONE OF YOU ARE POWERFUL ENOUGH TO SLAY ME. LEAVE THIS PLACE. YOUR PRESENCE OFFENDS ME.
Sounds like sound advice to me. Don't forget- I know. Cyrus was only one of our problems. We don't have to slay him. We just have to weaken him. It's not too late, Manic. Just stay out of my way. Uh, Cynthia? If you were to capture Giratina, this entire world would cease to be. That includes you.
Both worlds will be saved, because I'll command Giratina to maintain them. What makes you think that'll work? It will work! If I capture Giratina, it must do as I command. *scowl* Franklin's intuition is usually right, Cynthia. Manic. Listen very carefully to me. If you allow me to capture Giratina, I can cure your disease. I can cure my disease, too. I can bring back everyone we've lost. Wait. Your disease? Wait a moment. Chim-Chim? Roivas? Archibald? Those ain't names for people, baby! Those...those are pokemon names! Which means...! Yes. I, too, suffer from Nuzlocke. That's why I've gotten so strong, trained my team to the utmost: I cannot lose. I can return life to both of us, save two worlds, including the one with everyone we love...just step aside.
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Post by Manic on May 5, 2019 11:04:24 GMT
This is why you don't summon the demon while you're standing inside the circle.
As for the end...phew, what a choice. Manic gets everything he wants, and all he has to do is let Cynthia have absolute power.
Believe it or not, we're only about two thirds of the way through the run!
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Post by Firebrand on May 6, 2019 13:15:01 GMT
Huh, Cynthia having Nuzlocke adds an interesting dimension to her and Manic's inevitable confrontation. Through all the other runs, Manic and Co. have been able to muscle through their opponents knowing that they're just fainting, and it's only if they go down that it's permanent. It even happens in this update where Spaz's Munchlax faints, it's treated as a fairly competent stalling tactic since he can just go to a pokemon center and heal it up. But when the team goes up against Cynthia, it means that anyone who falls is down for good, on both sides. That's not going to sit right for some members of the team, I'm sure.
It also sort of explains why Cynthia has her mooks come down hard on any potential league challengers. If they wash out on the first couple gyms, her team stays safe. This definitely gives her a much better motivation than Derpy Wallace, but as the saying goes, "Cool motive, still murder."
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Post by Manic on May 7, 2019 10:46:45 GMT
Update #16: Emergence
Catching it...seems to be the only way. *headshake!* It is true. If destroying it will destroy both worlds, and Cynthia will catch it if we do not... Sorry, friend. This thing has a lot to answer for, and it's time for it to be taken to task. Fortunately, I still have that Master Ball. Then, for the good of all, I must finally break my silence. Th' hell...did you...did he just TALK?! Could you do that this whole time?! Manic. Hear me. Twelve bonds tie you to the world. If you fail to break them, you will die. Wait. You're suggesting that if I do break them, I won't die? Correct...but if you die, not just this world, not just the other world, but all worlds are lost. You can and must defeat what stands before you: a shard of Giratina, separated from the whole for this purpose. Please, you must elaborate. All worlds? Shard of Giratina? Yes. If you were to destroy Giratina, this world would cease to be...but you have as much chance of that as you do of destroying Arceus with a sewing needle. Liberate this shard, let it return to the whole, let one of the bonds be broken!
Well, you heard him. You've never steered us wrong before, Franklin. None of the Oracles have or will, Manic. Honey, when this is over, you an' Roxy gonna need to sit an' have a chat.
A fine idea. But for now, look to the moment! I...have...had it! Uh oh. Ah, perhaps we should step back? Lucille's patience appears to be wholly exhausted.
We go through the entire region trying to find a cure, and it's within our grasp! It's sitting right in front of us, and what do we get? You're a fake! A fraud, a pissant little fragment of the solution we really need! No more false hopes, no more disappointments, no more lies and secrets! ENOUGH!
Hey...where'd it go? It may not be the true Giratina, but it knows Giratina's attacks. I sense an imminent assault of great power! Girl, you get outta there! We need someone who can weather that attack without fainting. Who can take the hit? Franklin, what in Mew's name are you doing?!
Becoming the solution. Of course! It's a Ghost type move, so it passes right through you! Hah! Well done. But...what now? I don't want a man down on my watch. Y'all best get those feet movin'! I believe you will find that my feet are not the answer here. The true solution was given to me quite some time ago, in an example of forethought I have come to expect. No! Please, I'm begging you! If you won't let me catch it, then YOU catch it, just use it to bring back my family and friends! I'm truly sorry, Cynthia. Even if this fragment of Giratina has the power to do that, no one should have that kind of power. Not you...
...and not me. NO!! It's over, Cynthia. It's time for you to move on with your life. Blast! All of my hard work was for nothing! You're still here?
Cool story, bro. He seems to be leaving. One of the bonds has been broken. Giratina has been made whole again, and the portal stabilizes before us. K-kill you... Tell me, Franklin. Why did you choose to remain silent, revealing yourself only to me in whispers? Perhaps he simply had no need for words. Quite the opposite. Oracles who make themselves too conspicuous tend to die, and I must live. My power may yet assist Manic, but only if I live to use it...and it is not yet ready. What? What can you do to help? Hopefully, nothing will need to be done...but when we return to our own world, I will need to remain silent once more. The forces that seek Manic's life will surely end me if I am found out.
Franklin. While you can, safely...tell me about these twelve bonds. Yes, I urge you to share with us any information that may spare Manic's life! Here is what I know: twelve bonds held Manic to this world. One was destroyed when the shard of Giratina was defeated. Eleven remain: Azelf, Uxie, Mesprit. Dialga, Palkia. We're going to have to defeat the gods of time and space?! If I understand correctly, only their shards. We'll be making them whole, not murdering them. Quite correct. You instinctively know this to be true. Moltres, Zapdos, Articuno. But those aren't even native to the region! They will be. Cresselia. Heatran. Wait, Heatran is more than just a myth? It is. And it will be one of your greatest challenges. I count only eleven after Giratina is taken into account, Franklin. Who is the twelfth bond? Your friends. Your family. The professor. Your hometown. All of it. Gone, you hear me?! GONE! You stole my only chance at happiness, and now I'm going to return the favor! Her. Cynthia is the final bond, but you are in no condition to face her now. Go!
Quickly, while she is distracted, this is our chance! Don't have to tell me twice! Oooh, it's gettin' worse! Using the bicycle is barely faster than running now! Speed is less of an issue now. Notice that Cynthia does not have a pokemon with Rock Climb; her only way out is Fly. Run while you can, but justice will come for you, Cynthia. For now, we need to go report to the Professor. If nothing else, he needs to know what's coming.
(and then the entire story was told)
If Cynthia is truly coming for us, then none of us stand a chance! You do. She's crazed by grief over what she thinks she lost. Thinks? Giratina was never really an option for her. You can't capture a god in a pokeball. Only that fragment was there. And it was there because of...you? Franklin seems to think that whatever has it in for me splintered off pieces of every legend it could find. Supposedly, if I find and defeat them, I have a chance at survival, so long as I also put an end to Cynthia.
Then that's my next stop. Then you won't truly be harming them? They're gods, Professor. I couldn't if I wanted to. All I'm doing is releasing a fragment of their power from an artificial prison. Very well, then, if it's for the greater good. Now, as for Cynthia, let's have a look at your badge case.
Correct. And after I free the lake legends, I'll be heading there. What about us? I want you to notify the citizens of Twinleaf. You're well known enough that they'll listen. Tell them to evacuate. How much should I tell them, though? All of it. Nothing is quite as effective as the truth. And...your condition? Worsening daily. Still, you know me: I'm going to live forever or die trying. Now, excuse me, I have a god to beat up. Just let me swap Roxy for Michael here...
First, Lake Verity, since it's nice and close. Hello, Mesprit.
...and goodbye, Mesprit. Fuck! I...I didn't even see it move! It appears to be extremely fast. We must locate it if we're to have a chance of victory!
Okay, two things. First, shouldn't you be in hiding? Second, where would I look? In order: Yes, but I realized you would need a bit of help. And then, just use your Map Marker app. My what? Map Ma-...oh, right. You've been a bit too busy to return to the Poketch headquarters, haven't you? Juuuust a smidge, yeah. So they have new goodies? Since you've been there? Several, but the one you're going to care about is the Map Marker. It'll let you track the signals of roaming legendaries. Well, that sounds like precisely the sort of thing I'll need! Why didn't you tell me about this sooner? Oh, you know. Busy packing, trying not to soil myself out of fear, that sort of thing. ...okay, justifiable. I'm off, then!
(one app install and some running around later...)
There you are! Now I've got...augh! It ran off again! It seems like one must be as swift as the breeze to even land a hit. All right. So we need someone quick with a super-effective attack. Who even has a super-effective attack? I do, but I'm not quick...sorry, Manic. Don't worry about it. I've got this covered.
(Still more hunting...)
Hah! Caught you. Nothing escapes justice, Mesprit. Not even you. *smile* Two down, ten to go. Fortunately, we already know where the other two are, and they shouldn't be nearly as tricky. *nod* We're not going to have to go chasing them? Indeed not. Each of the lake gods emphasizes one attribute. Azelf emphasizes attack, Uxie emphasizes defense, and Mesprit emphasizes speed. Only Mesprit is furtive enough to flee like this. Well then. Shall we make a little more progress?
They never stood a ghost of a chance! That's the spirit! Just don't let the specter of defeat loom, and you'll never be dead weight. They say puns are the cheapest form of comedy. Yep! And that means Manic is three times as cheap as I am! Hah, yeah. I guess it does, huh? That's right! In your face! Woo! You let him have that. Yeah, maybe now he'll let it go. Okay, team! Now that four of the bonds are severed - right, Franklin? *nod!* - let's head to Sunyshore!
Interesting. An Electabuzz! And our first electric type in this entire voyage. Fine, you caught me. Remind me why I should do anything for you. Because I captured you? Suppose I short out the ball? You wouldn't dare. Listen, Spike. I'm not domestic like you fancy-pants types. I do what I want. All right then, I propose a deal. I'm listening. I'm going to be dead in nine days. For those nine little days, I want you to travel with and fight for me. In exchange, I have something I know you want. Like what? In nine days, I'll be gone. How'd you like to still be an Electivire on the other side of that? You got an Electirizer?! Buddy, you gotta deal! Cool. Now, shack up in the PC for a minute, I'll be along shortly.
Ffffuck. Whoah, easy. It's not like that. You're not here to kill me? No. Well, yes. I mean, I'm supposed to, but I'm not. *blink* It doesn't sound like he knows if he's coming or going! Look, it's really simple. Volkner, the gym leader of this place? Really down in the dumps. I mean, this guy's my bro, but he's whipped pretty hard and he's feeling it.
...not in the slightest. Oh, for crying out loud...BEAT HIS ASS. Show him that he has to earn his gym leadership legitimately. As opposed to? Just go talk to him. He's in the lighthouse. You'll figure it out. I need to report back that you 'escaped'. Uh, right. Okay. What the heck was that? Looked like a man looking out for a comrade. We may have an ally. Do not be too swift to accept his change of heart...but for now, at least, I believe our goals do align.
Dude, don't you have a bathroom for that? A bathroom f-oh, ha ha. You're hilarious. Anyway, go ahead and get ready. I'll be by soon. Doesn't hurt my feelings. I can't just coast on her coattails forever. Come again? Go do your thing! I'm gonna go do mine. *tug tug* Hmmm? *points outside* Curious. He seems to want rather urgently to train. Well, far be it from me to refuse you on that count. Let's go, then.
(and then...)
At last. My final move. Uh...Franklin? That was out loud. Easy there. I'm sure he's got a reason for risking his neck. You do have a reason, right? Indeed. I can only be harmed if I fight, and I no longer have a reason to fight. Wait, you mean...? I implore you to box me, Manic. I may yet prove useful in your time of need, but I must survive in order to fulfill my role. Besides, you have a promise to keep. Then consider yourself retired with honors. *salute* Best Lopunny ever. It has been an honor to fight by your side. Wish I'd gotten to know you better! Watch over Roxanne for me, friend.
So. Virgil, right? That's right. I put a shock to your system! Well, we need to get you caught up with everyone else. Training, huh? Well, they're your nine days. Lead on, leader. Training is right. But first, let's get you properly equipped. What's wrong with my current moves? Only one thing:
...the fact that these are so much better. Hah! Now we're playin' with power! Not bad, boss, not bad. 'Boss'? Well, yeah. What'd you think this was? I've been paid, so he gets nine days. And that's all this is to you? A business arrangement? Yep! Means to an end. Well, now that I've been paid, it's more like a debt. I oughtta smack you clear to Kanto! Manic, right? If one of your crazies makes a move on me, the deal's off. You know that, right? Simmer down, Lucille. We made a deal, I'm abiding by it. He's not obliged to feel the way you do. But...I, you...FINE. Heh. Nice butt, for a bug. Nice ass, for an ASS. Hah, nice. Okay, let's get to training.
(Not a plot point, I just wanted to say I never expect to see this screen. NOT LEARNING THUNDERBOLT WHEN OFFERED. What?!)
NO. ...the hell? Look, boss. You want me to train, I train. Just not on those things. I'm not quite clear on your rationale, Virgil. You could have easily defeated it. No way, man. Those things are pure, concentrated evil. Wait a moment... I assure you, there is nothing to fear. They are easily felled. Yeah? Then you fight 'em. Virgil, are you...afraid of mimes? He IS! Hah! Oh, that's just too rich! Yeah, yeah, laugh it up! When they come for your eyes in the night, I'm gonna be the one laughing. Okay, okay. C'mon, let's finish your training and head back. And no more Mr. Mimes. Thanks, boss. You're all right.
Okay, that's an image I really didn't need. You have a sick mind, you know that? Matches my sick body. Oh yeah. Cynthia mentioned that. Uh, sorry to hear it. It's fine. I'm not completely without hope, but my next goal is through that door. Just remember! You have to kick his ass, it'll make him feel better! This is your friend, right? Of course, why? ...no reason.
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Post by crimsondoom on May 7, 2019 14:45:07 GMT
Ah yes, Virgil. Bribing him is a more unusual approach to catching a Pokemon than I typically see, but one that actually makes a lot of sense and adds some interesting character dynamics.
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Post by Manic on May 7, 2019 18:56:56 GMT
Ehhh, it's less "this is why he let me catch him" and more "this is why he didn't just short out his pokeball and leave".
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Post by crimsondoom on May 7, 2019 22:55:09 GMT
Ehhh, it's less "this is why he let me catch him" and more "this is why he didn't just short out his pokeball and leave". Same difference IMO. I don't consider a Pokemon caught unless they stick around.
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Post by red5 on May 8, 2019 2:37:50 GMT
Ah, my childhood <3
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