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Post by crimsondoom on May 25, 2019 19:40:27 GMT
Ah, Lenora. She's my favorite out of your Unovan gym leaders. I can appreciate a gym leader trying to educate her challengers rather than just testing their battle prowess.
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Post by ghostwriter85 on May 26, 2019 6:03:05 GMT
Not to mention that Manic's reference to WarGames reveals that he is a man of taste. XD
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Post by Manic on May 26, 2019 19:01:06 GMT
Update #7: Partisan
Mmm-hmm. Wild guess: you want me to take the scenic route. How did you know? Par for the course. Make the trainer do the hard part. W-well...I guess this gives us a chance for a new catch? Sorry, nope. B-but...why not? As much as it might be utter bullshit, the area right outside Nacrene and the deep forest all count as one location. Sarah was our catch for this part. Ye've gotta be kiddin' me! Not even a little bit.
Yeah, yeah. Run along, I'll be by soon. Go go go! Whew. I'm glad he's gone. That guy creeps me out. There is, how you say, the problem with his mind. Still calling him Too Much Coffee Man. He...he is a little intimidating, I admit... Yeah, but he might be useful. If nothing else, I have a lot of questions to ask. For now, let's get going.
*pant, pant* Hey! You! What, me? Yeah! How much farther is it? Why should I tell you? Madison. Aye? If he doesn't answer in the next five seconds, push him off the ledge. Sounds like a good time tae me! Heh heh. Uh, right! Not much farther now. Go north! Thank you for your cooperation. C'mon, team. Let's go. AAAAAIIIIIIIIIGGGGGGHHHH... Madison! I didnae do it! That was profoundly satisfying. Huh. Ruthless.
Well, yeah. What, you thought you could rip off a museum and just get away with it? Well, yeah! Who would be dumb enough to stand up to Team Plasma?! You're kidding, right? We've stood up to you clowns, like, five times now! Tres facile! You are never a challenge! Oh yeah? Well, if you want this skull, you'll have to fight for it! Huh. Okay. Hey, Jonas. You feel up to a tussle? Oh dear...well, I suppose if I must...
(lol beatings)
'Kay. Kay? That's it? That's all you have to say for yourself? You don't deserve the entire word. I d-didn't think I'd take everything out in one hit...! Ye dinnae know yuir own strength, lad! Wait. Who's that?
Oh! Um, s-sage! Sage? This guy's a sage? Be respectful! This is one of the seven sages! ...is this a thing I should know about? Ugh! Yes. What a noob. The sages are here to help Team Plasma achieve our goals! And they may be forgiving, especially when we try our best, but...
Awww, isn't that cute? Brings back memories. Sage: Memories, you say. Yeah, it's pretty much always like this. Sage: You don't say. Please, do elaborate. Aqua and Magma were the same way. All "You'll never interfere again!" and "Those who disagree with us must fall!" and then my pokemon and I beat the stupid out of them. Sage: My dear girl, you are confused. Aqua and Magma haven't been in operation for decades. Yeah, you're welcome. Huh? Who's there?
What?! You defeated?! Vous etes un menteur! It is we who defeated the enemies! Easy, team. Easy. Dinnae 'easy' us! This arse wasnae near any o' the action! W-well, if he wants credit...I suppose I don't mind... Well, I do mind! We're the ones who beat the stuffing out of those goons. Calm yourselves! It's not important right now. We'll deal with this after we're out of danger.
Lenora! Lenora: ...which can only mean that we have the dragon skull back. Sage: Oh? And what makes you think that, gym leader Lenora? Lenora: Simple. Both parties are still standing. I assume that means you have access to the treatment as well. Since she doesn't and she's still alive, that means she won, and that means she got the skull. Burgh: Always so astute! This is why we get along. It's three of us vs. two of you. And that guy has no conscious pokemon left. Sage: This fact is not lost on me, I assure you. And therefore...
Sage: EatathousanddicksI'mout! *pchoo*
Okay, whoah, wait. Stop right there, both of you. Lenora: Hmmm? What's the matter? I want to know what's going on here. Burgh: What are you talking about? I heard you talking about the leaders of Striaton Gym like they were bitter enemies. What gives? Lenora: Oh, right. You're new to the region, so you wouldn't know. Burgh: You should explain it, Lenora. You're good at this stuff.
Lenora: Several decades ago, our champion at the time was killed while out on an expedition within Chargestone Cave. Ouch. That sounds really rough. Lenora: It was, I assure you. There was mourning, there were parades and flowers, and the entire region felt his loss. Many of us still do. I can only imagine. You have my sincere condolences. Lenora: Thank you. After all the fanfare and reminiscing, something began to occur to people: Unova suddenly had no champion. Oh, we had an Elite Four...but we had no one for a challenger to face if all four were defeated. Uh oh. I think I see where this is going. Lenora: In time, a new challenger appeared. He looked capable enough, like he could defeat the Elite Four, but there was no champion to defeat. Alder didn't so much win the title, you see, as get appointed to it. I can see that. Sometimes, a leader is needed no matter what the cost. Right, I get it. Moving on...
Lenora: For a while, people were content to let the matter sit. Rebuilding needed to be done, the region's business needed tending to. Alder was doing a capable job. I'm totally sensing an "and then". Lenora: Correct. As time went on, unrest began to stir. Questions arose: should Alder have to face the Elite Four to prove his right to his role? Did the E4 even have the right to appoint a champion in the first place? This sounds like a recipe for revolution! Gotta agree with Frieda on this one. Lenora: And she's correct. No coherent agreement could be found. Necessity fought with propriety, tradition fought with expedience. There was no winner. I'm sorry you've come to see us at a time like this...
Lenora: ...because Unova has been in the throes of a civil war for several years now.
Whoah, wait, what? A civil war? Lenora: It's true, I'm afraid. Gym leadership seems to be split down the middle. Roughly half of us believe that Alder's appointment to the role of champion, while unorthodox, was necessary. That half believes that his services to the region, and the continued need for a champion, make his continuation in the role both fair and necessary. B-but that means that the other half... That means that the other half wants him ousted. Lenora: Not necessarily ousted, but tested. Burgh and I are fortunate, we agree on this issue. Not every gym leader is so lucky as to have an agreeing party nearby. Meaning that the Striaton gym leaders... Lenora: Those shortsighted wannabe rappers think that he should have to face down the Elite Four to earn his spot. Nevermind the pokemon that would be lost in the process. I...see. Lenora: You can see how insane such a thought is. I'm not ready to formulate an opinion yet. I want a better understanding of the issue before I go deciding who I agree with. Lenora: Very reasonable, and just what I'd expect. Go, then, and be well. Also...
Hey, nice! Thank you! Lenora: If anyone can use it wisely, it'll be you. I have to get the skull back to the museum now. Bye! Thanks! Okay, team. Looks like we're headed north, to challenge Burgh next.
It's kind of beautiful, isn't it? It is. You know...we've been through a lot so far. I can't deny it. It's true. I never really thought I'd make it this far, to be honest. But here I am, near the Skyarrow Bridge! It's b-breathtaking... There's certainly nothing like this in Hoenn, I can tell you that. Aye, an' I'm lookin' forward tae crossin' it an' roughin' up that scunner! Who, Burgh? Aye. I dinnae know he was so deluded! Deluded how? Ye heard 'im! Thinkin' this Alder bloke's got th' right tae lead wi'out even doin' th' challenge! What? You're kidding, right? They needed a leader, they got one! Uh, right. So, let's go ahead and cross.
It's okay, Ingrid. She's obviously joking. I'm nae jokin', lad! Why's he get th' privilege of leadin' wi'out fightin'?! Because of all the good he's done, obviously! Look around, there's prosperity everywhere! C'est vrai, but the right to lead, it must be proven! What?! He did prove it! By stepping up when he was needed! He deserves the champion role. Why, 'cause he was lucky enough tae be there at th' right time? Bollocks! Lucky? You call taking over a region in chaos lucky?
Holy...would you look at this thing? Yeah, it's big. Look, nobody's saying that he was born to lead or anything, but he's done pretty well! I just think he deserves some credit for all this. Oui, Ingrid. No one is denying him this credit, but he must still follow the rules, or they mean nothing! Jonas, what do you think? Oh, um...I d-don't know...you both seem to have valid points... What?! Jonas, you're smart enough to understand that removing the champion with no replacement would cause havoc! He is also smart enough to know that an unfit leader is worse than no leader at all! How do you figure he's unfit? We're nae sayin' he's unfit, we're sayin' he could be!
Have you lost your minds? It's common bloody sense! Do you understand anything about this at all? This is not how rule is decided! Uh, guys? C-can I walk with you? Yeah, okay. Guys?
GUYS. I didn't know I was traveling with traitors! An' I didnae know I was travelin' with a bull-headed sot! Stunning. An absolutely stunning lack of vision. A stunning lack of entitlement, you mean! Can I go back in my ball? Please? FFFFFfffff...
I SWEAR TO ARCEUS, IF ALL FOUR OF YOU DON'T SHUT THE FUCK UP, I'M GOING TO PUT YOU BACK IN YOUR POKEBALLS AND DEPOSIT YOU IN THE NEAREST LANDFILL! Whoah! Mon dieu! Oi! Hey, what gives?!
What gives is that ever since you heard Lenora talk, you've all been chewing on each other non-stop, and it's getting on my damn nerves! Don't you think that if there was an easy answer to this, someone would have found it by now?! There is an easy answer! Don't change things! Easy for the bourgeois, you mean! SHUT. UP. I don't care who's right and who's wrong. You know what I care about? For the first time since we've met, NO. No, I don't. Why don't you tell us? I care about the fact that Jonas was so miserable that he pleaded to be put back into his ball. I care about the fact that your nattering completely ruined my first trip down Skyarrow Bridge. And worst of all? I care about the fact that the civil war has found its way onto my team. I...well... C'mon, you guys were friends, and now look at you. You're at each others' throats! Je suis une derriere... I don't give a damn about the champion. I don't give a damn about the civil war. I just want my team back. Okay? Aye. I've been a right twat, I have. I guess we all kinda got into it. Right, then. New rule. No more political chatter. Got it? Suits me. Certainment. Aye, I'd much rather bust heads! Yeah...it's not worth it.
Holy damn. Will you look at this place? It is nighttime, but so bright! Everything else looks puny by comparison! All the streets...
The buildings're friggin' huge!
Sooooo many freebies! Why are all these people giving you stuff? I think maybe you don't quite understand how guys work. Hmmm? Oh, hey, looks like Jonas wants back out. Ahem...often, a male will present a gift to a female as a sign of affluence... Wot'd ye say? The idea is, if he is rich, he can provide for her, n'est-ce pas? Er...right. Well, the supplies are welcome, at least...
FFFFFFUUUUU... Nope! None of that. You sit down. What? What about you? W-we can handle this... Aye, 'tis true. Just sit yuir bottom down an' watch.
Well. I guess that works. Si bon! All is well. I guess we should finish this place off, though. What? Why? What if somebody wanders by? Better to be...*yawn*...proactive. D'accord, but you will take it easy, yes? And after we're done here, a good night's rest. Night's rest...yeah. Sounds like a plan.
Are you shitting me. Nope! My job's to clean it up, not dish it out! Even the janitor wants to duke it out? Gotta get my kicks somehow! Jonas, would you be so kind? Y-you...you mean guy...leave my trainer alone!
(roflstomp ahoy!)
HOLYSHITYES totally worth it! Is that what I think it is?! If you think it's an Exp. Share, then yes! Hot damn! A what share? Dinnae look at me, looks like a hat tae me! Moi aussi, I am also lost... Oh, I've read about these! They transmit some of the experience from any teammate's fight to the wearer! Bingo! Training new recruits just got a lot easier.
Even more freebies! I just don't get it! What, seriously? Even now? Huh? Seriously, I expected better. Ye really dinnae ken what's happenin'? Look, if you know something... Zut, she truly does not know... It's, um...well, I... What? Why are you blushing? Duh! You're pretty! I mean, seriously, look in a mirror sometime. Um, I'm not 'pretty'. You are. Sorry, but it's true. Help me out here, would you? He's right. An' now yui're the one blushin'. Hah! Vous etes tres belle, Madame. *nod* Ffffffff...fine. Okay, whatever. Let's go get something to...drink?
It's official. I fucking love this town.
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Post by Manic on May 26, 2019 19:09:13 GMT
And there we have it! The skull is recovered, and...
...and it turns out there's a lot more going on in Unova than was initially obvious!
This is why we don't talk politics in mixed company, folks.
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Post by crimsondoom on May 26, 2019 19:24:04 GMT
This was really fun backstory, Manic. I'm a fan of historical/political stuff in my fantasy worlds, and this version of Unova delivers it nicely.
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Post by Manic on May 28, 2019 8:39:05 GMT
Update #8: Night at the Improv - vs. Burgh
Wait. If you love it so much, why are we leaving? Let's review, shall we? D'accord... Burgh is a Bug-type gym leader. Says so on the sign in front of his gym. 'Tis true. So? Bug types are known for reaching high levels of power early, but falling flat later on with very few exceptions. Problem: we're still comparatively early. Burgh will be bringing the pain. So will we! Victor, you're weak to Bug-type moves. Jonas, Madison, Ingrid, Frieda...raise a paw if you've got anything that's super-effective against Bug. ... ... Exactly. So we're going to go find our sixth team member.
In this blasted hell?! Yuir kiddin', aye?! Are you kidding me? This is fantastic! I d-don't mind very much... You wouldn't, but the rest of us have no resistance to it. Monique included! What gives? Think about it. Anything we find out here has to be able to survive this sort of environment, right? Ah, c'est magnifique! The new catch, it will be tough as a nail! Right! Now let's have a look.
Hold! Hold what? Ah, a quartet of maidens fair, and a trainer among you! Milady, what brings you to this wasteland? Eeeeasy there, big guy. Ruffian! You shall address me by my proper title. Qu'est-ce que c'est? I think there might be something wrong with this guy, Monique.
I assure you, madam, my sanity is pristine. Please, address me as Sir Arthur. And might I have your names as well? Uh, sure. I'm Ingrid. The Herdier over there is Madison... Och, yui're a knight, then? Indeed! A Frenchwoman and a Scot? Curious company, but most welcome! I shall be your gallant protector. Uh, sure, okay. Anyway, that's Frieda there, and I'm Monique. Oh, um...h-hello, Ar....er, Sir Arthur. I'm Jonas... A squire! Splendid! And that only leaves the gadabout there. The name is Victor, 'Sir' Arthur. I'm in charge here, second to Monique, and don't forget it. Now, come on. I'm sure the two of you can get along all right. You both want the same thing, right? We do? Dinnae be daft, lad! Ye both want 'er tae be safe, aye? Aye. Er, I mean, yes! Quite true. Then, Victor, I propose a truce. FOR NOW. Fine. Say, I don't suppose you know any flying, fire, or rock type moves? Why, no. Why do you ask? Oh, no reason...
I have to admit, that's the first time I've seen you so fired up. I suppose I'm still flush with the glow of victory. So, have you faced him yet? Not yet, but I'm going to soon. Ah, yes. Take my advice, then: bring a towel, you will get sticky. Sticky? Not only has this knave called you by the wrong name, he seems to be making suggestive comments. That's no way to treat a damsel, sir! Have at you! Arthur, no! Look, there's some back story there. I assure you, the name thing is understandable. You appear to be having some trouble. New catch? Heh, yeah. He's very enthusiastic. Lookin' tae kick th' sot in th' shin, eh? I like ye already, lad! At any rate, Burgh will be expecting you. I should go heal my team. Be well. Yeah, you too.
Oh, come on. You've gotta be kidding me! Scoundrels, madam? Oui! They are taking the pokemon from trainers, among other things! They...they aren't v-very dangerous...but they're very annoying... Hmph! Thieves! I'll teach them to respect the good folk of Unova! Calm yourself. Here, wear this, it'll help you catch up with us. What manner of contraption...? It's true, I'm afraid. Something about them continuing their activities in Castelia. Needless to say, they have to be stopped. Are you in? Do Purrloins have an attitude problem? Ha! I'll take that as a 'yes'...wait, do you hear that? What is that? Alors, Monique! It is a scream from far away! I recognize the voice! Cheren? Bianca! Burgh! Follow its source! Frieda, you're my ears on this one, lead the way!
I'm...I'm the worst trainer ever...I only turned my back for a second... They're crooks, Bianca. It's not your fault. We'll make it right, okay? We have to get it back! In stereo, yet! Hmmm. Maybe you're not so bad. At least you have spirit. Shall we? There's j-just one problem...where to start...?
Have these fools...taken leave of...their senses? They always...act like this...all action...no brains...phew! Run now, talk later! If they've hurt the wee bairn, ah'll bite their kneecaps off!
Stand back...I'll face these whelps myself! Whoah, whoah. Hang on a second. Is there a problem, milady? We work as a team here. Everybody fights, and I do mean everybody. Even the damsels?! Even them. And if I were you, I'd watch it; they're among our best fighters. Look, I don't know what century you fell out of, but around here? We're no helpless flowers. Aye! Ah'm in the mood fer a scuffle anyway, an' these dobbers're hardly an appetizer! Monsieur Arthur, we appreciate the thought, but we can fight, as well! Warrior maidens! Very well then. Show me what you can do!
(...and they did. Brutally. And Arthur learned something, too!)
Splendid! I believe I can adapt some of your skills to my own use. Behold! Not bad, not bad. Welcome to the team proper. You still need to catch up, though. Let's worry about that later, okay? Bianca's Munna is probably inside! Ohhh, please be all right... It's okay, Bianca. Nothing will happen to your pokemon while I can prevent it. If they h-hurt Bianca's Munna...I...I won't forgive them...! So you've got some fight in you as well! Spectacular! Let's sally forth!
In fact, I believe that I recognize all three of you. You were the somewhat sympathetic girl from Accumula, and you were the entirely pathetic girl from this very city. You're not going to speak to Bianca that way. Do you hear me? I'm afraid I'm going to have to agree. That's no way to speak to a young girl! Speak when you're spoken to, junkie. Team Plasma has liberated that Munna from a girl who would almost certainly see its demise. It's not true. She isn't afflicted with Nuzlocke! She's had this vaccine. You are new to this region, so I won't blame you for not knowing. The vaccine is a farce.
I believe I told you to be silent. A...a farce? But that can't be... She's right. It can't. I've knocked out her pokemon in combat before, and they didn't die. I don't doubt it. Do not be fooled, though; her pokemon have not died for the same reason that Burgh did not die when that young man defeated him. The treatments, then? Treatments? The League provides gym leaders with treatments that temporarily suppress Nuzlocke's effect when we battle. When beaten, we don't die. And the pokemon? They are not so lucky. Why not get treatments for them as well? Why are you looking at me like that? Because it's a fair question. If the treatments prevent the user's death, why don't the pokemon get them too? Because they're incredibly expensive and difficult to make. Providing even half of a gym leader's pokemon with them would be implausible. And even if you did, how would you choose which ones got the treatment? AHEM.
All right. Wait. Hold on. Is there an issue with that? Okay. I did some reading on the legend, and it says nothing about stealing pokemon away from trainers. That is our ideal, you see. By holding to our ideal, we will prove ourselves worthy. An ideal of pain and suffering? An ideal of preserving the lives of as many pokemon as possible. If they have no trainer, they will not fight.
You say that wild Pokemon won't fight if they aren't trained to do so. That's correct, yes. Monique, what was the level of the last Pokemon you caught? Well, that's Arthur here, and he was level sixt...oh. OH! I see! Level sixteen. Pokemon are born at level one. So tell me: if pokemon don't fight on their own, how did this one- Sir Arthur. -how did Sir Arthur reach level sixteen before Monique found him?
The weakling speaks. I m-may not be strong yet...but I see you're willing to listen to others' views, and change your mind if you have to. That makes you a little less scary, I think... Intriguing. It means we might be able to get you to listen... You there. Return that girl's Munna. She bears further investigation.
Unfortunately, it can also be very tragic. It's my hope that you can someday see that if you truly love pokemon, the kindest thing you can do is avoid them. Sometimes, loving something means letting it go. In the interim, a smoke bomb should cover our exit...
(...and it did.)
Wait. What'd you call me? Come on, you didn't think I'd never hear, did you? Even if you aren't Manic, you think you are, so I'll just call you that for now. This is becoming a problem. I sure hope you shake the effects of this soon. I'm s-sure she's trying as hard as she can... What is a 'Manic', and what is this jester speaking of? We'll explain while we train. About Manic and Monique, and the war, and all of it. Well, at least something good came of this. We know they won't be using that stupid smoke trick again. Pourquoi?
...they left their smoke bomb.
(In due time...)
All right, team. It's time for us to take Burgh on. No more holding back, no more waiting. This happens now. Milady, the fire in your eyes is inspiring! Friends, is she always like this? When she is to fight the gym leaders...it is like a new person! Gahhh. I wish I could join in! I wanna kick some butt too. Dinnae worry, lad! I'll bust some haids for ye! Madison is right. That freakshow was right; Burgh is deceptively sharp. I wouldn't put it past him to drop you in one hit. It's a good strategy. Put your opponent off-guard, then go in for the kill. Nobody - and I mean nobody - dies under my care. Are we clear? Crystal clear. C'mon, let's see what this place's gimmick is.
What. A wall? What sport is this?! Wait, is that... Are you licking it?! This is honey! Honey...oh, lord. I think I know what Cheren meant now. Oh dear, oh dear, I don't like this one bit... All right, everyone back in their pokeballs. What about you? Only one of us needs to endure this. Back in you go. *pchoo x6*
OhmygodBurghIhateyousomuchwhenIreachyouIswearI'mgoingtopunchyouinthetituntilyouexplode...
After this match...ALL THE SHOWERS. EVERY SHOWER FOREVER. Milady, you're utterly coated! Here, let me- Nope! No. You'll just get yourself sticky. Degoutant! Mon dieu, you poor thing... Oh, that looks very unpleasant. My handkerchief is no match for that! Ye've got a handkerchief? Where d'ye put it?! Hey, I've got a great idea. Let's not explore that question. Er, Manic? Any reason I wasn't trained up for this fight? You have others relying on you, Ingrid. If I lost you somehow, I don't know how the PLF would survive. I'm going to be leaning on Frieda, Madison, and possibly Arthur and Jonas as backups. Now, no arguing, let's get to this.
All right. What's your schtick? Schtick? Every gym leader I've faced so far has had a gimmick. The Striaton leaders had me engage in a rap battle. Lenora quizzed me. What'll you do? Leave you in stitches, of course! Are you threatening milady Monique, you buffoon?! With an attitude like that, he's the Arthur of his own destiny! Heh. Quite amusing. You truly are a jester. And he's out! Come again?
Isn't it obvious? If you laugh, you're out! A humor contest, is it? All right, then. I warn you, though, now I can't possibly lose! Ha! You must be kidding! Nnnnope. Also? Hmmm? You just laughed. Goodnight, Whirlipede. ...damn!
I guess my Dwebble must've been naughty. Your Panpour had to Scald it! ... What, nothing? You know, I think it's time I draw on some past experiences. You ready for this? Sure, hit me with your best shot! Here's a four-parter! Yo momma so fat, she eats Snorlax three at a time! *snk* Yo momma so ugly, she kissed a Muk and it died! *snrrrrk* It's working, it's working! Show the scoundrel what for! Yo momma so stupid, I told her I found a Big Root and she tried to bike down it! *pffffftchchchch* Yo momma so fat, so ugly, so stupid, she could ONLY be yo momma! BWA-HA-HA-HA-HAAAA! Oh Arceus, oh Mew, sweet mercy, give me a moment...!
All right...all right. No more Mr. Nice Guy! So, this Jewish minister goes into a cafe, right? Okayyyy... He sits down, and he orders a chocolate and a tea! And the waitress tells him, 'Sorry, hon. We're outta tea. Come back this afternoon!' So he nods, orders a water instead. Eats, pays, leaves. Uh oh. This isn't good. He's got the funny accent and everything! Sure, sure. So he comes back that afternoon. Sits down, orders a sandwich and some tea. Waitress tells him, 'Sorry, hon. Still outta tea.' He says, 'But you told me you'd have some now.' She apologizes and says, 'Come back tonight, we'll have some for sure.' He shrugs, pays, leaves. Okay. Ah've heard these b'fore! All th' punch is in th' end! So he comes back that night! Sits down, orders some pasta and some tea. Waitress tells him, 'Sorry, hon-' but he cuts her off and says, 'Wait. You told me this morning you'd have tea this afternoon. You told me this afternoon you'd have tea tonight. And now you're telling me you still don't have any tea?!' She shrugs and says, 'Real sorry, hon. Try again tomorrow.' He scowls, but he takes water instead, eats, pays, leaves. This is not good...he is building up...! Anytime you're ready. So he comes back the following morning with his scroll, but he's got a pokeball with him. He goes and sits down, and lets out a Lopunny. Mmm-hmmm. The waitress comes over and says, 'Sugar, you gotta keep your pokemon in their balls in here.' He laughs and says, 'No, no! This is my associate. We're going to study the scriptures together!' B-brace for impact... The waitress thinks, laughs, and says, 'Honey, there ain't no T in rabbi.' He looks her dead in the eyes and says, 'That's the whole damn PROBLEM, ISN'T IT?!' Gnnnngh...nnngh...pffff...! Don't laugh! Do NOT laugh! Hold it back! I ggh....I ggggghnnnf...! D-do you really want to laugh as F-frieda dies...? ... ...wow. Wow, that was messed up. It's true. But it worked. Now it's my turn.
So this guy goes into a pokemon center, and he sees it has a sign put up: 50 poke' to try to make the Zebstrika laugh. There's this jar with a fortune in it. Okay... The guy asks the nurse what the deal is. Apparently, this Zebstrika has never laughed. Not once. They've had the racket running for years. The guy nods, puts 50 poke' into the jar, leads the Zebstrika into the back room. Sure. Suddenly, from the back, there's this uproar of laughter. The Zebstrika is laying on its side, clutching its belly. The nurse stares, astonished, as the guy picks up the jar and walks out. ...I don't get it. That's because I'm not done. So the guy comes back a year later, and there's another jar. Again, it's packed full of cash. This time, it's 50 poke' to make the Zebstrika cry. The nurse gives the guy a smug look, and dares him to try...so he does. Puts his cash in the jar. Okay, go on. From the back, there's this piteous, horrible weeping, like he'd crushed its soul under his heel. The guy walks back out, picks up the jar, begins to leave. Mmm-hmm. The nurse stops him. "Wait, wait." she says. "I have to know. You've won our challenge twice now. How did you do it?!" Regardez...he cannot stop listening! I know! Shhh! He says, "Well, the first time, I told him my dick was bigger than his." And... "The second time, I proved it." BWAAAAAA-HAHAHAHAH! Oh Arceus! That's...that's fantastic! I've got to write that down!
I'll just take these, thank you. Oh...oh, my sides...can't breathe...! Such words! You are no lady! No doubt. I, oh dear, I can't, uhm, you... That...was...PRICELESS! Where did you hear that?! I need to introduce you to Sidney sometime. He'd like you.
Sure, just let me get everyone healed. Oh, um, is everything all right? Sure, sure! We just beat Burgh, is all. Cheren told me about the honey... Yeah. Also intend to get a shower while I'm there. How did you beat him? The power of dirty jokes. Rrrrright...well, whenever you're ready.
(After several showers...)
Whoah! Getting right to it, huh? Yeah...I'm...I'm not gonna lose this time! She has the style, the spunk, but little else. Look, um... Yeah. I know. Try to make it painless, okay? I'll try, but no promises.
(It went about how you'd think.)
What? Right after I battled Bianca, with no break?! Who do you think suggested that fight? How dishonorable! How sneaky! How cowardly! How clever. What? Pay attention, team. That's how you win. If the rules are holding you back, redefine them.
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Post by Manic on May 28, 2019 8:48:25 GMT
Quite the roller coaster! From srsface to a laugh riot and back again!
Heeeeere's Arthur! My first experience with the Scrafty line. Interesting pokemon! Gallant, too. Not quite what you'd expect, hmm?
Why are Burgh's gyms always so horrible?! The one in B/W2 is even worse!
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Post by truezero2 on May 28, 2019 13:23:04 GMT
I ended up using Scrafty in my first Y playthrough thanks to this run. Still think I need to re-raise him though for Battle Facilities.
That'll come in Gen 8 though. I seriously hope there's something like the Poke Pelago and SOS Battles. ------------ That aside, I consider the BW1 Gym to be worse. If I had to press myself through Honey or use tubes of webbing, I'd probably take the webbing.
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Post by crimsondoom on May 28, 2019 15:57:06 GMT
Frankly, I'd be tempted to set fire to Burgh's gym if it weren't for the fact that neither honey nor webbing tend to burn very well. No matter which version of the gym it is, it is HORRIFIC.
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Post by ghostwriter85 on May 29, 2019 4:46:58 GMT
One doesn't look at a Scraggy and immediately think 'Hey, he looks like he'd be a good knight. But Sir Manic always did go against the grain. And it can be hard to write a knight stereotype without overdoing it, but you balanced it well.
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Post by Manic on May 30, 2019 5:03:41 GMT
Update #9: Validation
Whew...that was...wow...I didn't even... I've never seen a battle so intense...much less been part of one... I think my favorite part was...when your Pignite...whew, oh man, I've never fought so hard... Everybody okay? Oui, just barely. The circus took a lot out of me! I'm certainly pleased that we sorted matters out with the local constables! Don't make me do that again, okay? I don't know how many times I can summon that many followers, but I bet it's not many. It's fine, I don't think we'll ever see a fight like that again. Lass, ah've busted plenty o' haids in mah time, but I dinnae think I've EVER seen the likes o' that before! I...I actually had fun...and Madison, s-sorry about that... I told ye, lad! Call me Maddy! I feel sorry fer any poor sod tha' missed that scuffle! Hmmm...a ringing...let me catch my breath...one moment... I've got it.
I don't suppose either one of you has seen Bianca lately? Well, I finished a match with her just before I found Cheren. Sneaky bugger. Per usual, I apologize for nothing. No, I didn't see her leave, Professor. Why? That's what I was afraid of. Her father has been spotted in the area. Uh oh. That's not a good sign. What's the trouble? This should be a happy occasion...right? No, her father is an abusive jack-off who gets off on smacking her around. The knave! If milady needs protection, I shall be at your side! I don't need protection, but Bianca might. Juniper, since she would've already found her father if she went back, she must've snuck by us and gone forward instead. A sound assessment. Allow me to survey this area. If you'll continue to the desert resort and ensure that he's not hiding there...
Makes sense. See you soon, Juniper. Can't you just call her 'Professor'? Sorry, I tend not to take professors all that seriously. You should've seen how I talked to Birch. You...nnnngh...no. It's the mist. You're still working on shaking it off. I understand, it's fine, I'm just going to go. I'll see you later, Monique. Right.
Oh lord, an even more blasted hellhole. Ummm...w-would you like me to be in front...? Y'know, that's not a bad idea. You're immune to the sandstorm's effects, and if there are fire types here, you'll be super-effective against them. I will keep watch in case you are needing help, mon ami! It's...it's nice to have people say that... *blush* Heh, that's kinda sweet, but let's go get a new catch, hmm? Maybe we'll get a fire type, that'd give us some much-needed coverage.
...or maybe we'll add to the Boxed Forever team. Wow, uh...wow. That's kinda...huh. We have no need of an additional grass type, I trust? V-victor's doing fine on his own...right? 'Course 'e is! He's no ned! I'll just assume that's praise. Okay, let's keep scouring this place. If Bianca's dad is out here, we need to find him.
Oh, hey, nice! Jonas, here you go. Oh, oh goodness, I feel stronger! Yeah, but we'll hold off on Rock Tomb for now. Its accuracy is kind of shit. You don't really think he'll be out here, do you? I'm almost certain he's not, but we have to be sure. Pardonnez-moi, but why are you so sure? Think about how miserable we are in all this. D'accord? Now imagine him wandering around in this. As appealing as the thought is, I doubt he'd do it. He'd seek some kind of...
...shelter. All right, everybody ready? If he is somewhere around here, it's almost a certainty he'll be down here. If the rascal is hidden within, he'll taste my fury! Incorrect. If he's inside, we'll call the authorities. This guy has no morals whatsoever, and he wouldn't blink at the prospect of beating up pokemon much smaller than he is.
Excuse me, I've been sent to look for a man, middle-aged, possibly violent. Have you seen- Whew! So...heavy. Could you just...hold this for a moment? Huh? Sure, okay. I'll take the feather-looking one. Now, this man. Have you seen him? Huh? No, I'm pretty sure the psychics hanging out down here would toss him back out into the sand if he got belligerent. Hmmm. Makes sense. He didn't seem like he had any pokemon with him, either. He'd be no match for them. Anyway, good luck finding him, I need to run! Hey, WAIT! You forgot...your...oh, hell. C'est pour vous, it would seem. Wot'll ye do with it?
But she went down there! She's also a trained archaeologist. Sorry, closed dig site! Well then, could you give this back to her? She forgot it. No way, not me! I don't touch those things. They give me the creeps. They belong in a museum! Thanks a bunch, Indi- M-monique...? You know, he's right. This thing does belong in a museum. So let's take it there! Madame, wait! Mind your...
steeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep! OW! Okay, definitely not a fan of this place. Oh no, oh no no no... What's your problem? We fell into a sinkhole and we're buried alive and we'll never get out of here and we'll have to eat each other to survive and- OR, we could just take those stairs over there. *snicker* Yui're daft, lad! I like ye. W-well, yes, I suppose we could do that...
(one long damn trip back to Nacrene later...)
Wait, you can seriously do that? No. Uh...so what's with the- Not now, anyway. You have a full team! So why didn't you say that in the beginning? I am a genius! I can be obtuse if I want. Yyyyyeah. So, let's see who we can temporarily swap out.
Hey, Manic? Er, yeah? It's time. Even as a Watchog, I was never meant for the long haul. ... You already knew this, didn't you? I mean, you knew this was coming. ...yeah...I guess I did. It was like this with Audrey, too. You'll have to tell me sometime. Wait, you don't want me to release you? Nah. Besides, I already appointed a new leader for the PLF. My goal is to make sure you don't stray from the course. The truth is still out there, and it's crucial that I know it. I...all right. This isn't any easier now than it was then. You really are Manic, aren't you? I'll have to get back to you on that.
So, how about 'Jacob'? Sound good? *sigh* I guess. Doesn't really matter. Huh? Why? Can't you tell? I'm going to die. Wow, this guy's a real beam of sunshine. Il va etre d'accord, Monique will keep you alive! No, she'll keep you alive. Me...I'm just a walking liability. Well, not if I have anything to say about it! Again, the flame in her eyes is kindled! Magnificent! Aye, ye just lost that argument, bucko! Here. Put on this Exp. Share. Watch and learn. When you're ready to fight, you tell me. Seems like a waste, but okay. Now, let's get back to Nimbasa and report our findings - or lack thereof - to Juniper.
I arranged to meet up with her tonight, in front of the ferris wheel. Juniper, listen. I didn't find her father anywhere in the desert resort. I had a similar lack of good luck on the Route proper. I understand what you're saying, but she sounded frightened regardless. Juniper, let her know that I'm here too. It might make her feel a little better. I'll lay the blackheart out if he lays a finger on her! Count me in on that action! Moi aussi! If you need a meat shield, I guess I might as well die for a good cause... Ah'll give 'im a right thrashin'! Well, your pokemon certainly seem fired up! I'll tell her. ...oh! Um...yay team...? I'll keep watch here to ensure he doesn't slip away. Go find her.
I tell you boys, it's not true! Yes, I was a trainer once, but that was years ago! Grunt #1: Blah blah blah. I see your jaws moving, but all I hear is 'please, beat me up and take my pokemon'! Please, not my pokemon, they're all I have left! Grunt #2: So you DO have pokemon. Thought so. Fork 'em over! Hey! You! Plasma morons! Grunt #1: What...aw jeez, it's her! Grunt #2: To protect the world from devastation! Grunt #1: Even ONE MORE line, and I'll defeat you myself!
Sure thing. It's not like I haven't defeated these idiots before. What's all this commotion I hear...Grandpa?! Cheren?! Manic, in addition to running the day-care, this man is my grandfather. You have to help him! Grunt #1: Awww, isn't that cute? Well, 'Manic', what're you going to do? My team and I are going to kick your weak asses so hard, your grandchildren will be born bruised!
(And they did, too! Jonas even learned a slick new move. Bye, Mud-Slap!)
Arceus, you guys are bad at this! Grunt #1: It's not my fault! Look who they partnered me with! Grunt #2: Well, if you'd just show a little team spirit! Grunt #1: Sounds great, but how about making it OUR team?! Hey, guys? Grunt #1: Huh? BOO. Grunt #2: Gahhhhh!
They sure ran off in a hurry, heh heh! You really do act and sound a lot like Manic. She's not, Grandpa Wally. She just got dosed with some Dream Mist and thinks she's Manic. Everything she knows can be learned from a book. Though she is a formidable fighter, I admit that. Wait, whoah. Did you just say 'Wally'? That he did, young lady! I traveled with the real thing through much of his development. And...to this day, I remain the only one who thinks he's innocent... Wow. Age hasn't exactly been kind, has it, old friend? All right, Monique. I've been very patient, but don't get my grandfather's hopes up. Monique, eh? Well, that's the name she's taken. She can't recall her real one. A pity, a pity. Well...I suppose I should be toddling off. Right. Hey, Wally. Someday, we should have that rematch. ...what?
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Sure, remember? After the last battle on Victory Road, you said you'd make some allowances if we had a rematch. I...how... Grandpa, I already told you. She read it in a book. Cheren, my boy...she can't have read that in a book. *sigh* And why is that, Grandpa? I never told a soul...not in all these years. Not once. That incident remains completely unpublished. I'm glad you didn't, though. Could've cost you your participation rights in the league. That's impossible. Then how did she... My goodness. That poise, that fire. It...is it really you? As near as I can tell, yes. I remember everything. Wait, so you're telling me...?!
I can't imagine how, but Cheren...you're standing in front of your childhood hero.
Wally. You're the first - hell, the only - person I can think of who might be able to shed some light on all of this. What happened? I was hoping you could tell me. One moment, you'd just returned from Unova. Next moment, you were just...gone. Poof, like magic. Then...all this time... That's all I can remember. Some fifty years ago, I went to bed a couple of days after getting back, and then when I woke up? I was looking at Cheren and Bianca. Wally, you have to tell me. What happened to Hoenn? Oh, Manic...after you left, they did the best they could to keep things straight, Sidney and Phoebe. They even rebuilt the Elite Four, using lookalikes and Wallace's son. Some twenty years ago, another boy was inspired by your story and took up your name to oppose the resurgence of Team Aqua and Team Magma, but everything was different. The teams seemed benevolent this time, and even Wallace Jr. wasn't nearly as nefarious as his father. Someone else? Wait, that's right, I heard someone else takes my name every ten years or so! Manic was right beside me...we even fought... The boy seemed driven for other reasons, and while he did eventually take the champion role, he immediately abdicated it and left for parts unknown. No one has seen him since. So, then, Hoenn is okay? Largely, yes. Shortly after your disappearance, May and I moved to Unova to search for you. After some time passed, we settled down and, well. Cheren here is my descendant. I used to read him stories about you as a child. Hee hee, he adored listening to your adventures.
So you and- wait, where's May? Oh, Manic...it's been fifty years. May was a lovely woman, the light of my life, but... Wait, was...oh, god. You mean? She's gone, Manic. Heaven rest her soul. Ouch. Sorry to hear it. This woman, she was close to you, non? *whine* Och, poor lass... I see you have a new team! Retaking the challenge? ...almost everyone I ever knew... Yes...I'm sorry. I wish it weren't true. We all got old, Manic, but you...you stayed young. Different look, though! I'm s-so sorry for your loss... Chin up, old girl. Stiff upper lip, and all that! Told you we're all gonna die.
Wait. You said I was innocent? Of course you are! You couldn't be responsible for what's happened to Unova. But...wha...how could she not?! I hate to say it, but I'm with Cheren on this. How could I not be responsible? Cheren wouldn't know this because it's not printed in any book, but I'm surprised you don't remember. Remember your talks with Steven? Ugh, no matter how much I wish I could forget. Wh- Wh-what's wrong? Close your mouth, you're catching flies!
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...of course! He's right! I couldn't be responsible for what's happened here! You don't say. Care to enlighten me, then? Cheren, think about it. If my condition was contagious, then everyone would have it. Right? Everyone does have it! Not true, not true! Cheren, I went on a worldwide tour to advertise for Hoenn and improve relations, remember? Wait, you're saying... Right! If I were contagious, everyone would have it! Everyone, everywhere! Right! But the affliction is limited to within Unova's borders! But that means...!
That means I've been framed!
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Post by Manic on May 30, 2019 5:12:07 GMT
It begins! The latter part of this update makes infinitely more sense if you've read both Derpy Emerald and My Little Pokemon: Friendship is Super-Effective. Especially in the latter case, as it reveals something about the overarcing plot!
Ingrid was great, but she served her purpose; keeping her on the team would've just endangered her. Instead, we wind up with Jacob, who's...hmm. What's the term for someone who always expects to lose?
Turns out someone is turning Manic into a fall guy! But who? And how? The plot thickens...
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Post by crimsondoom on May 30, 2019 14:20:14 GMT
Instead, we wind up with Jacob, who's...hmm. What's the term for someone who always expects to lose? "Depressed pessimist" probably works here.
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Post by Manic on May 30, 2019 23:53:21 GMT
Instead, we wind up with Jacob, who's...hmm. What's the term for someone who always expects to lose? "Depressed pessimist" probably works here. There's a single word I was looking for. XD
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Post by ghostwriter85 on May 31, 2019 0:34:11 GMT
"Depressed pessimist" probably works here. There's a single word I was looking for. XD And I believe that word is 'defeatist'.
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Post by Manic on May 31, 2019 5:01:08 GMT
There's a single word I was looking for. XD And I believe that word is 'defeatist'. Nice catch!
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Post by Manic on May 31, 2019 5:13:34 GMT
I'm going to interrupt here for a moment, before the update begins. This update contains subject matter dealing with a potentially sensitive topic that may strike a nerve with some readers and be difficult to deal with. I'm just going to drop a link here in case someone reads this update and finds that it strikes a bit closer to home than they're comfortable with: The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
With that, on with the update!
#10: Purge
Seems like I have a new goal in mind. A new goal? What's that, then? Well, my old goal was to figure out what's causing the Nuzlocke epidemic and put an end to it. That hasn't changed. I also want to know how I wound up here, in this body. That also hasn't changed. But now, I also want to know who's framing me and why. So you're telling me...that not only is this the actual Manic, but she's innocent? Come on, boy! Use your melon! Would the Manic you heard about do things like that? I always wanted to believe he wouldn't, but... Cheren, listen. Either I really and truly am who I believe I am, or I'm a close enough facsimile that there's no functional difference. What I need to know is, are you all right? This has to be a lot to absorb. Listen, I want you to have this. I think...heh heh...you just might recognize it.
By all that's holy, is that...? Hee hee! It is! I saved it as a keepsake for all these years. Oh, man, this thing brings back so many memories! I'm afraid the speed-changing mechanism jammed years ago, but it's otherwise in fine shape! Hey, nice! So this'll get us around faster? A lot faster. Cheren, my boy, come with me. Leave Manic be for now, she's got a lot to sort out. Sort out...right...okay, grandpa. Take care, Wally! If you ever need a pokemon raised while you're out and about, pay us a visit on Route 3!
Oh. Hello, thing I'll never use. Wot's that? A recorder. I can make records of the trainer fights I'm in. S-so you can record...wait, the deaths of pokemon? C'est terrible! It certainly is. I won't be rude and turn it down, but it's never getting used. Faces of Death: Pokemon Edition is dead in the water. And what manner of place is this? It looks like a subway station of some kind. I'm curious, c'mon, let's go in.
Well, sure, I guess? Or I could just walk there. I warn you, walking along the rails is very dangerous, and you shouldn't do it! No, I mean, take a path there. Oh! You're new to Unova, hmmm? There isn't a path there. With our luck, something important is there. If something important is there, we'll just take the train! Oi! Quit yuir yammerin'! Let's get on! Well, you heard her.
Huh. This isn't really a 'town', is it? Hmph. Scarcely a spit of land in the midst of such a vast forest! I d-don't know...it's cozy...secluded. I have to agree. It's verdant! Nice-looking. And those temporary houses over there don't really interrupt the view much. Regardez-vous! This one, it is open! I've never exactly been shy before. Why start now?
Uh, did this guy just pass us stolen goods? It seems more like a gift! Most gracious, kind serf. Wot, ye didnae hear 'im? This belongs tae somebody! C'est vrai, we should return it. Probably laced with something. Is...is this really okay...? *sigh* Hear me, comrades-in-arms. Clearly, you do not understand the notion of tribute. To return this man's gift would be to indicate that we do not grant him our favor. It would be rude, perhaps even tantamount to an act of war! Not to mention inappropriate for a knight. If you don't wish to partake, I will take this tithe personally. Well-put! Very nice...but we're going to hold off for now. He's right, though, we will keep it. If somebody missed it, I bet they'd have come back by now. Hmph. Well, fine, but I don't have to like it. Let's head back to Nimbasa. I want to resupply.
WHAT. Er, is something wrong, miss? Okay, let me be absolutely sure I understand this. These TMs are 10k to 30k each. Right? A very competitive price, yes? And they never break or wear out. I can just use them over and over again, in perpetuity. Well, yes. What kind of shoddy craftsmanship produces TMs that break? Lady, you just made my whole damn day! I'll take Return and Thunder Wave for now, but I bet I'll be back for the rest! A pleasure...doing business with you? Weirdo.
I'm beginning to wish I'd stayed in Unova longer the first time! Thank ye, lass. But...weren't ye a champion, or sommat? Oh, right. Good point, I wouldn't have had much use for these. Hey, uhm...M-Manic? It's cool, you can call me that. I'm not ashamed of it anymore. I don't know if you saw, but there was this cool ferris wheel as we came in. Mmm-hmmm. Wot he's sayin' is, we wanna ride th' thing! Hell, why not? I'm in a good mood.
Wait, you're going to help us hunt for them? It's the least I can do after fighting you so often...Manic. So you know about that, huh? I overheard you and the elderly man speaking. That was Wally, and if he says you're Manic, that's good enough for me. You know him? He's a bit of a pariah for believing in your innocence, but your argument is a logical one. It's hard to deny. At any rate, shall we? Wow, even the nihilist is willing to help me. Could today get any better?
Haven't I successfully stomped your team's ass at every turn? I would expect nothing less of the former champion of Hoenn. And haven't I...wait, that reminds me of a question I've been meaning to ask you. Please, by all means. Understanding fosters peace. Hmmm. Looks like your backup has arrived. Ne'er-do-wells! We've been ambushed! To arms!
They won't interfere. Why not? Grunt #1: Yeah, why not? N: Because doing so would contradict the wishes of your king. Grunt #2: By your command, Lord Frieza! Grunt #1: I hate you so much. Er, right. Anyway, what's the deal with your name? And aren't you afflicted? N: Ah, yes. My name. N is merely my first initial. You see, I have a singular purpose in life, and it runs parallel to your own: I wish to see this epidemic eliminated. *gasp* Of c-course! N... N: I see your Drilbur has deduced the truth. Yes, it's true. N stands for Nuzlocke. I am named for the very affliction I seek to end. Yikes. Of all the things to be named after. N: Indeed. For the moment, lacking any means to cure the disease, I must liberate pokemon from people. Pokemon won't die if they haven't been trained by the infected.
Yes, I do. That's a pity, I...wait, what? I do. I follow your logic. Strictly speaking, what you're saying makes sense. I knew it was too good to last. Yui're nae sayin'...?! I must admit, it's very refreshing to hear someone agree with me. Manic, you can't be serious! I never said I agreed with you. I said I follow your logic. I...I knew it... Explain. What you're saying does technically make sense. If pokemon are separated from trainers, they will survive even if they're knocked out. What I'm talking about is the quality of that life. If people and pokemon are forced away from one another, especially if it's done suddenly, this entire region will face a near-total collapse. The economy will crumble. Basic utilities will falter. Pokemon and humans will grow mistrustful of one another. Unova will make Orre look like a summer resort.
Then I suppose we must battle once again. If you insist. You have valid points, but your selective blindness leads you to add one plus one and get firetruck.
I do not like doing these things, but if we must, we must! Ha-ha! Vile impostor, have at thee! Oi, is that all ye got? I'll bust yuir haid open! You see what being in the presence of humans has done to these poor, innocent creatures? Whoah, whoah. What are you talking about?
But it's because of your near-feral pokemon that you win. Okay, wait, stop. You stop right there. Hmmm? I seem to have touched a nerve. I'd like you to meet the team. Victor here is a clever, courageous Snivy. One of the best friends I ever had. I couldn't ask for a better introduction to the Grass type. Hey. I see. Frieda is a gentle, genteel lady who's deserving of your respect. Bonjour! Madison is one of the bravest fighters I've ever met. That's me, ye arse bandit! Charming. Jonas is a bookish, shy, but sincere Drilbur who tries his best. H-hello... Arthur is a gallant, honorable knight I'd trust with my life. At your service, milady! And Jacob may not have much self-confidence yet, but I'll show him how to fly if it takes forever. I'll just disappoint you. You know them well, I see. I do. Now, you say what you want about me, I honestly couldn't give a Feebas fart. But you start talking smack about my friends, and I'll plant my foot so far up your ass that I'll be able to wiggle my toes and work you like a ventriloquist dummy! Fervent. Passionate. You make an excellent opposite number. Fate has chosen well. But mark my words, Manic:
How are you going to do that when you can't hold on to a team? You've always been a lone wolf, Manic. I've read the stories. Apart from your team of pokemon, you worked alone. What's your point? I've chosen not to limit myself in such a way. I have a multitude of people willing - no, eager - to help me make my vision a reality. Let's see which is stronger, the combined efforts of an army... ...or the power of one man and his team. Man? Oh, shut up. C'mon, team. Let's go find Bianca.
This is the pinkest thing I've ever seen. And I looked into your backpack once! Oi, dinnae be a prat! Nothin' wrong with pink! Yeah, Manic sports pink all the time, and she's not even remotely ladylike. Hey! Madison's right. Just because things are pink...
...okay holy shit no. This is the frilliest frou-frou thing I've ever seen. P-please? Can we play along? I've never had the chance before, and I don't think I can do it on my own. Okay, team. Huddle. N-not it... Nae it! We need someone to join in this thing. It's basically a play where you...dance, I think. Me? Dance? You're kidding, right? Do you even need to ask? Bianca needs this. Someone needs to step up. Bien sur, I will join! Milady, I assure you, I am most relieved! It looks tres amusant! I will show them glamor, elegance, joi de vivre!
Okay, not an awful lot to work with here... Pardonnez-moi?! No, no! I mean in terms of props. I think this is okay, though. Ah, it will have to do. I can make the umbrella work, and the glasses and hat lend a sense of mystery! So, uh, I guess you're ready? Admit it. You were never actually a guy, were you? Tut! Milady is exploring her natural inclinations. Trouble her not!
Okay, so. ...right. We're all agreed? No doubt! This debacle never occurred. We were never here. People will find out anyway, but fine. Well, I think she's pretty...
Oh shit. Code red! Team, at the ready! What manner of devilry is this?! There's Bianca. And there's her father! I...I w-won't let him hurt her...! Arthur, take up a position at her flank. Jonas, be ready to knock him off balance with a Dig if you have to. Victor, if that happens, you hold him in place. Frieda, I need you to stay with Bianca to be a source of comfort. Madison, put yourself between him and her. Jacob, you stay with me in case he decides to switch targets. Go! Oh, it's you! The bitch that ran off with my daughter! D-daddy, no! Why are you even here?!
I had to drag my ass all the way to Nimbasa to find you! Do you even know how much that cost?! I'm s-sorry, I didn't mean to cause trouble! Sorry, always sorry! You think you're sorry now? When we get back, I'm locking you in your room! No, you're not. She's not going back with you. Oh, you want a piece of this? Why not put away your pokemon and face me? Hmph. Sounds good. Team, withdraw. Wait...you're serious? I'm absolutely serious. No pokemon, no powers, just you and me. You hear me, team? No interfering, no matter what. M-Manic, no, he'll kill you! Manic?! Hah! Like you're even a fraction of the man he was! You really don't get it, do you? Being a man - I mean really being a man, in the way that counts - is a lot less about what's between your legs, and a lot more about what's between your ears. Don't you think it's about time you went home and stopped abusing your daughter?
What?! Are you smarting off to me, young lady?! Y-yes! I am! I've had it up to here with hiding bruises from my friends, and living in fear of you! You're my father, you're supposed to love me, but all you can do is treat me like an imposition, like a belonging! Oh d-dear... Should we... No. This needs to happen. You do belong to me! No, I don't! Are you really that blind?! I'm on my own now, traveling with friends I can lean on and pokemon that believe in me! I don't belong to you any more! Think about this long and hard, Bianca. If you don't come back with me right now, you don't have a home to return to. N-nothing has ever been clearer...*snf* in all my life. The world is my home now. The only place that isn't home...is with you.
Elesa: This city is my charge, and you're creating a tremendous public disturbance. Worse yet, you've shown me that this young lady needs to be taken under my wing. Bianca's father: You have no right to take my daughter away from me! I'm...I'm n-not your daughter anymore. I know this needs to happen, but this, it is too much! They're sayin' things they cannae take back! Hey. You. Bianca's father: What do you want?! You love your daughter, don't you?
And you're scared for her. Right? Bianca's father: Why else would I be here? If you want her to be safe, you have to be a safe place for her. That means no hitting, no belittling. You have to give her the same dignity you would demand for yourself. Bianca's father: Who are you to teach me about parenting, hmm?! Look at Bianca. I mean, really look at her. Not in anger, but in love. Does she look happy to you? Bianca's father: W-well, no, but... Be honest with me. When you were younger, growing up. Someone did this to you, didn't they? Bianca's father: Well, sometimes my fa- oh. Oh, sweet Arceus. Is that what this is? D...daddy? Elesa: Very astute. No one is born abusive. It's not our natural state of being. It's a learned behavior, which means you got it from somewhere. It's not too late, mister, uh...mister Bianca's Dad. Roy: Roy...my name is Roy. It's not too late, Roy. Your daughter is right there. This isn't what she wants either, not really. She's terrified, but she needs her father. You, on the other hand, need some help.
Elesa: I know someone who's experienced in dealing with this sort of thing. Roy: What, a shrink? I can't go see a shrink! I can't afford it! Make time. Make money. Find room for it, do whatever it takes. I know from experience: it's never too late for a father and child to make amends, if you're just willing to do what it takes to come to an understanding. For a very long time, I thought my father had outright abandoned me...but he was trying to protect me, just like you're trying to protect her. Elesa: You have to make peace with your past. If not for your own sake, then for hers. Daddy...will you do this for me? Please? I've never wanted anything more in all my life!
The gym leader...?! Has he taken leave of his senses?! Heh, yeah. Gym leaders are pretty sharp like that. B-but Daddy, Manic... ...will keep right on making sure you're safe, just like I have been. Right. Elesa: For the time being, I'll have to insist that she stays with me. I'm sure you understand. But what of her dreams?
Of course not. There is, however, one little catch that needs to be resolved. What's that? Bianca is on her journey. If she stays with you, she'll have to abandon it. And yet, she needs to be protected. I'm not denying that, but the two have to be reconciled. Well then, this is how it is: for now, Bianca is under my protective custody. If you intend for her to continue with her journey, you'll have to demonstrate that you're a capable caretaker. Meaning? You'll need to challenge my gym and defeat me.
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Post by Manic on May 31, 2019 5:23:54 GMT
Whew. We start off on such a high note, with Cheren convinced of Manic's identity and innocence, a free rare candy, and a rational discussion with N!
And then things get supremely serious and go to a hurtful place with alarming speed. It's amazing how fast a mood can slingshot, isn't it?
It looks like Bianca has a new protector. But is her voyage at an end? Looks like Manic's going to have to rescue her from her rescuer!
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Post by crimsondoom on May 31, 2019 16:22:46 GMT
This is one place where I sincerely disagree with Manic (the character). His dad simply had bad judgment; Bianca's dad is straight-up abusive and, frankly, doesn't deserve a reconciliation. I suppose it's possible that Manic was just trying to deescalate and doesn't actually believe that, but it seems... unlikely.
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Post by Manic on Jun 1, 2019 14:12:35 GMT
Note for the readers: this update really does want you to have audio capability. Every italicized, underlined bit of text is a YouTube link. You'll understand as you read.
Update #11: Mirror Match - vs. Elesa
Okay, team. You know what time it is, right? All apologies, milady, but I do not. Oh, hey, right! You haven't seen us prepare for a gym battle before. Quite so, but I stand ready to unleash righteous fury on your opponents! Mais non, you must not! Fear not! I shall fight valiantly! If yui've got a brain in yuir haid, ye'll nae fight at all! They're right, Arthur. Did you not see the Emolga flying behind her? Don't worry about it, man. I've got this! Actually, no, you don't. Neither of you will be fighting. Or did you not see the striped pokeball on her hip? Y-you think...? I do. Zebstrika. Meaning it'll know Flame Charge. Sorry, guys; both of you are out of this one. We're still training, though; the gym leaders in this region are brutally strong, and we'd better be up to the challenge!
Wait. Weren't we just on Route 4? We're lost. What a shock. We're not lost, Jacob. The path back to Nimbasa is right there. Give it a minute. Wow, that's annoying. We're not getting lost. In fact, the town map says...huh. Weird way to lay out a region, but I guess it works. I d-don't think those men on the bridge are letting us past... It's fine, we have business here anyway. But first...I heard somebody talking about the Liepard on this route. Time to exploit the dupes clause!
This again? I already told you, I'm not fighting. Come now...Prince, is it? Cowardice is unbecoming! So is leaving a rotting corpse. Take it easy. Just wear this Exp. Share, sit back, and watch. I'm going to get you evolved. What, really? What, really? Quoi, vraiment? Really. See, if a Liepard is already in the 'dex, I don't have to catch one if I see it. Those are the rules!
(eventually...)
Still feel the same? Still feel the same. Thanks for the freebies, though! Don't mention it. Now, back in the box you go. Milady, all apologies, but was that not superfluous? I th-think she just wants us to have better teammates...Prince isn't a bad guy, but he's kinda useless... Jonas has it right. C'mon, let's see what we can catch on this route now!
HA! Called it. Arthur, do me a solid and slap down that Liepard. Jonas, Metal Claw on the, uh... T-trubbish. ...huh. One of our less endearing pokemon, I admit. Hey, let me introduce you to a Koffing or a Muk sometime. You'll be begging for a Trubbish. Wot're those, then? Well, the Koffing is based on smog, and the Muk is based on toxic waste. Right! Trubbish it is, then.
(well, you'd think so, anyway...)
Urgh...I implore you, come to a decision! Madamoiselle, you have made a valiant attempt, but you have run out of Antidotes! Arthur, Jacob, Madison and myself, we are all poisoned! Yeah, and this guy would one-shot me! ... Manic? MANIC! Jonas. Y-yes? Make the kill.
Feels bad, man. It begins. Get back in yuir ball, ye studded feather duster! AWK! *pchoo* Hey, c'mon. You made the right call! I know I did. The problem is, it's still a failure. That's a teammate we should have but don't. It's been a long time since I failed a catch attempt, and it doesn't feel any better than it used to. M-maybe...that's for the best? Eh? How d'ye figure, laddie? M-maybe...remembering how this feels...will make you do better next time? I don't know, nevermind... You know...you just might be right, Jonas. Let's turn this failure into a future victory. Let's head the other way, this time.
...after a bit of training.
Oh, hey, look! It's a little mini-circus. I liked the one in Nimbasa better. Aw, you just liked the ferris wheel. Not true! There was...other stuff. Like? Like look over there, some tall grass!
Awww, that's adorable! Good heavens... What? She can't hurt you. Psychic type, looks like. Um, M-manic...maybe you should look closer...? Shhh! Shhh! This is too good. Let's see...nope! Gothita. Psychic type. Och, this's one fer tha records! M-madame...ecoutez-vous, you should look more closely. I don't know what everyone's up in arms about. Look, she's even coming along willingly.
That's a guy, dummy. ... ... WHAT. Come now, be kind, he is, ah...how you say...feminine? That's a dude. Aye. It has a... Aye.
Let's just...let's just move on.
(and then training occurred while Manic quietly wept on the inside)
Okay, team. It's time for us to go in and take custody of Bianca. You ready? Hey, you think afterward... Yes. Afterward, we can totally go on the ferris wheel. Score! Je ne comprend pas. Why do you like this thing so much? I think it's dangerous...scary. You don't like being way up in the sky, able to see forever? It's awesome! Okay, okay! Let's focus, here. Elesa is no laughing matter. Jacob and Frieda are out because, well, electricity. Figures. But of course. Arthur is out vs. those Emolga, and Victor is out vs. all three. Might I perhaps return to face her Zebstrika? We'll see how it goes. Have fun with that. That largely leaves Jonas and Madison as my top two here. Jonas, you're the front-runner due to your immunity to electricity. M-makes sense... All right, team. Let's get in there!
A roller coaster? What, seriously? Seriously! One thing you can say for Elesa, she shows her challengers a good time! ...nope. Nope, sorry, too easy.
I'll just keep that in mind.
Say, Victor. Have you ever been on a roller coaster before? No, why? Okay, everyone raise a limb if you've been on a roller coaster. ... ... ...what, nobody? Ohhh, man. Everybody hang on to somebody else, this is gonna be awesome!
FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU Woo-hoo! Yeah!
Yeah, it was awesome! *BLAAARGH* Ah, milady, allow me to hold your hair. N-never...leaving...the ground...again... Wotta rush! Now, if tha bloody ground'd stop doin' a jig...! I hate you. ZOMGwhatwasthatIdon'teven! Your team appears unfocused. This should be simple enough. ...shit, you're right. Arthur, stay with Frieda for now. Victor, Jacob, chill out. Jonas, I need you front and center. Don't worry, staying grounded is a good thing here. Bianca, dear, would you come out? H-hello there... This will be very simple, Manic. My, it feels odd saying that. This girl has spent entirely too long under a man's heel. She's in desperate need of being reminded of who she really is and who she can be. I see. So, Striaton was a rap battle, Nacrene was a quiz. Castelia was a joke contest. And this?
Inspire Bianca. ...is the name of my new indie band. Don't waste your time with humor, Manic. I'm not that insipid boot-licker Burgh. Play to win, or you will lose.
Elesa: Well, let's lead with a little taste of what's in store for you, hmm? Can you imagine it, Bianca? Living a glamorous life, surrounded by people who adore you? Oh, I d-don't think I could do that...I'm not that pretty. Elesa: Sweetie, you are that pretty. Let me prove it! Rrrrrgh...th' little buggers won't hold still! Ha! Oh, Elesa, you have no idea, do you? Elesa: What are you talking about? Girl, you never knew Amplitude! I've got weapons in this battle you've never heard of! Here, Bianca! This is what you really need to hear: instead of looking back, you can focus forward instead! D-do you really think so...? There's no doubt in my mind. The world is your home, remember? This is the first day of the rest of your life! Hah! Got ye, ya li'l dobber!
Elesa: Hmph. Not bad, not bad. I underestimated you. Who is Amplitude, incidentally? Amplitude was my Exploud. Raised him from a Whismur, and he spoke entirely in musical lyrics up until the very end. It was all he'd ever heard, living in that cave as he did. Elesa: Well then, I'll just have to pull out the big guns. Bianca, do you know what makes me successful? W-well, you're really pretty, and strong, and... Elesa: No, honey. That's what makes me capable of being successful. Do you know what actually makes me successful? N-not really? Elesa: Passion. Attitude. Glamour and confidence. I know I'm exotic and beautiful, and that's what gets me where I want to go. That's how you'll get where you're going, too. Nothing has been done to that pretty face that can't be undone. You're a supermodel in the making, and I'm going to help you get there. Wow...a...a supermodel? Me? You think so? Manic, do something! That was your last Paralyze Heal! It's all downhill from here. Bullshit it is. Hey, Bianca! Huh? You know who I am now, right? That I'm the real deal? Y-yeah...no wonder I couldn't beat you... Like hell you can't. I started out right where you are, with no father to speak of and a broken home. And look how far I've gotten: one championship under my belt, and on my way to another! Yeah, but...I'm not strong like you are. Don't ever let anyone tell you that! Look where you are right now! Fall ten times, get up eleven! You decide where you're going, it's your life!Hey, yeah...you're right, this entire journey is about finding my own way! Ooogh, I need a break... You did a great job, Madison. It's Jonas' turn, now.
Elesa: Oh, Bianca. I know it's hard, but you have to move forward with your life. Can't you imagine? All the world in love with you, men and women alike? All you have to do is stay with me. Become my protege, and I will guide you to a life in the limelight! You...you think people will love me...? Really? Maybe I should... AAAGH! M-manic, please...do something, anything...I c-can't take another hit...! All right. That tears it. I didn't want to do this. I mean, I really didn't want to do this. Elesa: Poor thing. How can you hope to teach Bianca to accept who she is, when you can't even accept who you are? The damsel has a point. Only those who understand themselves can help others similarly. Manic? Allo? Shhh! I think she's got something in mind! Okay, fine! Who am I? I'm Manic, a former champion who somehow wound up as a teenage girl. Well, no matter how I got this way, no matter who believes me, I believe me! In the end, I'm the only person I need to convince, and you're the only one you need to convince of how beautiful you are. The love you need most is your own! Phew...I...I g-got it...ohhhh, I need a break... My deepest apologies, milady, for doubting your feminine wiles. That was the girliest thing I've ever seen. C'est magnifique!
Elesa: What a relief. Come again? Elesa: I had to know that I was leaving her in capable hands. I knew you couldn't help her be happy with who she is, until you could be happy with who you are. Then this really was a test. Elesa: It would be irresponsible of me to leave her with someone who couldn't reach deep inside and draw out their inner strength. She's going to need that, and you'll need to be an example. So, you never intended to make her into a model. Elesa: Are you kidding? The modeling world is a meat grinder. That's the last thing she needs. Go with my blessing, both of you. But...are you sure you're ready to move on? You've both been through a lot. Um...Elesa? I appreciate the concern, but... Elesa: Yes? Y-you were right...if I'm ever going to get strong, I have to keep moving forward. That means...that means no more white knights, no more rescues and hiding. Can we go...?
Elesa: That was all I needed to know. Be well, both of you, and remember: the mirror is your friend.
Manic? Why are we here? Well, it's a new location, and a chance for a new catch. Bianca went on ahead, though. I know. I just need to think, okay? Ma chere, are you all right? Isn't it obvious? She's coming apart at the seams. This is most troubling, milady. Never have I seen your flame gutter so. Look, just give me a minute, okay? It's...it's okay. We're here f-for you.
*whine* That was passionless, lass. Mechanical. Nothing hurts quite like a mirror, huh? Rrrrr...shut yuir beak! He's right, though, isn't he? Yeah...he's a jerk, but he's not wrong. Talk to us, please.
All this time, I've been using my little quest as a means to avoid looking at myself. I never thought of myself as a 'girl', not really. It was just 'me-in-a-costume'. And I never really thought about how far from home I am...how much has changed. Everything is different, and I do mean everything. Fifty years is a very long time... It is, and Jacob was right: being shown how much I was ignoring it all only made it that much more unavoidable. Oh. Yeah. So...don't? Announce yourself properly, sir! No, I mean, don't avoid it. I'm not sure I follow. Okay, so Manic was this guy who won a championship and did a bunch of really cool stuff before he got 'taken', right? Right... So what! That was fifty years ago. What's wrong with being Manic, the teenage girl with a champion's experiences who's focused on rescuing an entire region and clearing her name? ... You were that Manic. Now you're this Manic. Why can't both of these things be true? ...heh. Damn it, Victor. You know I'm right. If it matters...this is the Manic I know, this is the one I like. I...I agree! This is where we are now. Ye were jus' tellin' Bianca tae live in th' now. Ye better practice what ye preach! I would not trade you for Excalibur itself, milady. Though your methods are unorthodox, you have proven yourself a valorous and kind-hearted trainer! Jacob? ...okay, okay. I guess you're not that bad. *chuckle* Thanks. I think I needed to hear that, all of you. C'mon. I think Elesa's waiting for us.
Cheren! I heard what happened with Bianca, and that you faced Elesa to 'free' her. Is that true? Yeah. Yeah, I guess so, but she was never really imprisoned. I've also heard that the match left Elesa rattled. But then, I'd expect nothing less from a champion. Cheren, stop. Hmmm? What? Why? That's who I was. This is who I am. You can't face the Manic of the past, he's gone. I'm the Manic of the present. If you're going to face anyone, it has to be me.
She really messed with your head, didn't she? Yeah. And I couldn't be happier.
This is our Manic...and this is the only one...! Ye cannae focus on th' past! Maybe she can't fly. Maybe none of us can, but...I mean, I guess...as long as we're gonna fall, we might as well dive. Jacob?? What? It's not like I haven't been watching. Quelle force! I am glad you are on our side!
It's all in your head, Cheren.
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