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Post by crimsondoom on Jun 17, 2019 15:24:21 GMT
Honestly, Plasma Castle is one of the stupidest - and coolest - things the Pokemon games have ever done. Seriously, how in the world did they get that thing there?!
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Post by ghostwriter85 on Jun 18, 2019 5:12:57 GMT
I still don't know if I forgive you for referencing a certain song in that last update. XD jk
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Post by Manic on Jun 19, 2019 8:10:38 GMT
Update #24: Calm Before...
Okay, team. We have no idea what's waiting for us up those stairs, so be ready for anything. Whatever it is, it had better start running. Aye! I knew there was a reason I liked ye, lass! Remain focused. The stronghold is likely to be plagued with Team Plasma associates. Associates, huh? I guess that's a polite way of saying 'cannon fodder'. Be there one or a thousand, we shall not allow them to do as they please! Sure, just mind the-
...sages. You know, I've just about had it with all your-
Oh. You weren't done. In a way, I echo this one's sentiments. Sure. I mean, that's why we're here, right?
Okay, wait, stop. Hold it. What? Look, I know the other three are just going to spout platitudes. Can we skip this part? We've been preparing these for weeks. And I'm sure they're very deep, but it's just eating time. Let's just move on. Well, if you insist...
Wait, what?! Is there even such a thing as a sextuple battle? There's about to be. This is completely unfair! They aren't operating within the boundaries of the league, so the usual rules don't apply. Okay, team. There's six of them, six of you. Everybody pick a sage. If you get a bad type pairing, switch off with a teammate. We can do this! Are you mad?! Furious, thanks for asking! That's not what I- I know what you meant, but we don't have time for it. Everybody get ready for the fight of your lives!
Well, sure, with a little careful switching and...wait a minute. Who said that? I know that voice! (Especially with the accent. It's hard to miss!)
Clay! Couldn't just leave all this for ya. I did say we'd help. And you couldn't have arrived at a better time. Think you can take three of these guys? Nope. Damn. Two, then? Even one would be useful. I gotta better idea. C'mon in, y'all!
Lenora: You wouldn't believe what the traffic was like getting here. Whew! I like these odds a lot more! Hah! The cavalry has arrived! What say you now, cowardly bullies? Burgh: How've you been doing, Manic? Holding up all right? Yeah, but I think the property values around here have gone to shit. Burgh: Yeah, the new neighbors are a real pain in the butt! Skyla: How many of them have you taken down so far? None, just got here. Aye, an' we're just gettin' started! Brycen: No. Wot d'ye mean, 'no'?!
Elesa: It's well past time we took the fight to these 'sages'. Each of us has a debt to repay! Fine. Just save me one and it'll be enough. Okay. Which one do you want? The one on the left. Let's educate the sages. Drayden: Do the math. There aren't enough of them for that. Y'know, I think I'm okay with that.
Drayden: We will hold them here. Clay: Least we c'n do. What, all of them? Lenora: Eight of us, six of them. We can even afford to stall them out. Drayden: Manic. Before you go, I must ask. Do you understand what I was trying to tell you in Opelucid? I'm not going to lie to you, Drayden. No, I don't...but now isn't the time.
(Within the castle proper...)
Well, duh. We...wait, you knew? Dude, Ghetsis played his hand a while back. We've known about what Team Plasma was really doing for a while now. Hmph. Well, you can hardly stop us! See, I can't help but notice how you don't have any pokeballs. So? Dawn? Ring his bells. The fury of a region! Tornado Strike! Well! He's out like a light. That was certainly...convincing. And that's why you don't want a piece of that.
FUCK! ... Wait. You're not going to kill me? Go. Aaaand he's gone. Fascinating. Anachronistic techniques in modern times, when they're difficult to defend against. I just wish Brycen had trained us on how to spot them. He didn't have five or six years to spare. Sheesh, gotcha.
Then you SUCK at your job. Hear me out, please. Well, you did ask nicely. Okay.
...I see. Sweet Mew. You realize that means he spent his entire youth surrounded only by abused pokemon? By the gods. Imagine what such a climate could do to a young mind. I don't have to imagine it. We've seen. Do not judge my lord too harshly, but do not take him lightly, either.
Wot's she yammerin' aboot? A mind free of doubt. Convictions absolute. Unable to conceive of deception from the one who raised him. They're right, of course. A mind free of distractions, focused on a single goal, can be an immensely powerful tool. It pains me to say this, but my lord must be stopped. Please, do not hate him. I promise, I don't hate N. If anything, he's as much a victim as anyone else. Can you save him? I can try.
Hey, Manic? Can we? Just for a minute? Er, sure, I guess. I could use a quick resupply before the final battle. Okay. Calima, Prometheus, I'm going to need the two of you to come with me. Manic, meet you back at the center? Uh, okay. Don't worry, this won't take a moment!
(And so, a bit of last-minute shopping was done. I only wish this was December 24th!)
Stop! What are you doing? Just accessing my PC box. The triad said I should. Oh! Heh, well. By all means. Are you seriously using the box? Here? Yyyyyep. Well, sort of. Define 'sort of'. As in, I'm sort of randomizing my password. How will you access your box later? Password recovery. They can't hack my pokedex, and that's where I'll have it sent. I think 92 characters is enough to give them a headache. Okay, all done!
This must be where N lived all those years. Looks normal enough tae me. ...no, Madison. Look more closely. The train in the basketball hoop. The mangled tracks. The pristine half-pipe. It doesn't look like this thing was ever used. This was the home of a tormented soul. I...I really don't want to be here anymore. Let's go. Take courage, milady. N may also be a victim, but he must be stopped. I know, Arthur. I just...brrr. What kind of monster does this to a little kid?
Ghetsis. You sick fuck. Not happy to see me, then? How can you live with yourself?
And you, in your arrogance, presume to pass judgment on me. Well, let me tell you something, you smug little relic. N was never a child, not to me. N is power, plain and simple. The power to force a region to release their pokemon. The power to defeat any trainer who faces him. You stand there in your supposed moral righteousness, but for all your talk, you've failed, haven't you? Nuzlocke still runs rampant throughout this region, pokemon die, and you're no closer to a cure. In the meantime, through my machinations, Nuzlocke will cease to be an issue. Certainly, it's an unintended consequence of achieving my goal, but nonetheless, remember this: in mere moments, I will accomplish your goal as well as my own.
...and may Arceus show you mercy...for N will not.
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Post by Manic on Jun 19, 2019 8:16:38 GMT
If that last monologue doesn't send chills up your spine...whew.
Looks like the gym leaders came through in a pinch! But they can't undo what's been done.
Ghetsis really is a monster. What he's done to N can't be undone; the only way out is through.
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Post by Manic on Jun 20, 2019 20:23:06 GMT
Update #25: The Storm - vs. N
N. I'm here. Look at the size of this place! This one room's bigger'n Burgh's whole gym! Naturally. The boy fancies it as his throne room, after all. Come out. I know you're here somewhere.
I couldn't agree more. I just want you to promise me one thing. And why should I do that? I want you to promise me that, whether I win or lose, you'll take a good, hard look at Ghetsis and his true motivations. His motivations are the same as my own: an end to the suffering of pokemon. They aren't, N. I wish I didn't have to be the one to tell you this, but he's been lying to you the entire time. Hm. I would do anything to achieve my goals, Manic. Do anything, say anything, be anything.
As such, your ruse is understandable. I do not believe you will reach him. N, listen to me. What reason could I have to lie to you? Like I said, whether I win or lose, look at him. I mean, really look. If I'm wrong, you lose nothing. If I'm right, and I am... Enough! I am done listening to you slander my father's name. It is as I had feared. The boy's loyalty is impressive, if misplaced. Then I'm just going to have to win and render the point moot. Very well. Let's begin. Sure, just gimme a second. ... ... I'm waiting. I know, just hang on. I've been under a lot of stress, this doesn't usually happen.
It's just taking a minute, is all. ^.^; C'mon, Reshiram. Wakey-wakey, eggs-and-bakey. Not good. NOT GOOD! Perhaps if you polish it, as in the legends? A code word? 'Truth'? Will barkin' help? Probably not? Then I got nothin'. Give it a good shake? Maybe it's like an egg, and needs to be broken. My patience is at an end. Just give me a minute!
You're no hero. Only I have the purity of purpose and vision to create the world I want to see. It's a pity, in a sense; with no true rival, I can't pit my views against an equal. Like hell you can't. Oh? And what do you hope to do with a Reshiram that's not interested in you? I'm going to put a stop to your insane antics. Once and for all!
That's no choice at all. Isn't it? You could simply leave. No one would stop you. Of course, you would have to leave your pokemon behind. Like I said, no choice at all. You might as well be suggesting that I chop off my own limbs. You're that dependent on them? Pokemon aren't things to be used, N. Nor are they just victims. They can be anything they set their minds to being, haven't you figured that out yet? Just like people, they define themselves, and human can help to contextualize them. Sometimes, you get a Serperior without a colossal ego. Sometimes, a cute little Cinccino becomes a force to be reckoned with. Sometimes, a powerful dragon seeks knowledge instead of conquest. Sometimes, a wee Lillipup goes all th' way! Sometimes, a member of a species known for being scoundrels and vagrants rises above to become a bastion of honor! You've been blinded by your ideals, N. What stands before you now is the truth!
Whoah! THOU HAST SUMMONED ME. ...I did? VERILY. ONCE MORE, I SHALL DO BATTLE.
No, I'm not. You are. You may not accept it, but you are. THOU ART THE HERO OF TRUTH. Look, I'm not a hero, okay? I never was. I'm just me. I'm just Manic, and I just want to fix things. One could say the same of me, and I am a hero.
I told you, I'm not a hero! WILT THOU DENY THY DESTINY? Manic, I don't think we have a choice here! It's going to attack! Bloody hell. Think, focus! Dragon, Fire. Calima, you and Victor stay back. That leaves Dawn, Arthur, Maddy, and Prometheus who has been in his ball since we got here. I SHALL REVIVE AGAIN AND AGAIN UNTIL THOU DOST FULFILL THINE DESTINY. C'n he do that?! I think we're about to find out!
SHOW ME THE STRENGTH OF THY CONVICTIONS! Maddy! Front and center. Give it an Ice Fang! Have ye lost yuir mind? It'll just revive! Fire will provide some resistance. Ice Fang should do normal damage. Besides, if we're going to catch this thing, we need to weaken it! Bloody 'ell! Th' great dobber's strong as anything! It's okay! Attacks that powerful generally have low PP. I SHALL NOT BE A SIMPLE CAPTURE! Easy, Maddy. Fight, heal, withdraw. Here, take an X-SpDef. *pant, pant* Th' damnable thing's too strong! It's not, I promise you that. We just have to weaken it, draw out the fight. Wait for it, wait for it...
NOW! WELL DONE, DAUGHTER OF MAN. Well done indeed. And now, we shall face each other, my Zekrom and your Reshiram, in the ways of the legends of old! ...ermahgerd. Is there a problem? Manic? I get it! I get what Drayden was trying to tell me! Sweet Arceus, I'm the dumbest thing to ever walk the earth! Well, I wouldn't say that.
What?! What are you doing?! Saving Unova. The two are supposed to face one another, like in the legend! All right, I have HAD IT with your legendary crap! Milady?
How dare- No! You clench your word-hole shut and you listen to me. Ever since I got to Unova, it's been 'legend' this and 'dragon' that and 'brothers' the other thing. Everybody's told me who I'm supposed to be and what kind of person I am and what I'm supposed to do! Oh dear. I suggest everyone duck and cover. N, have you even been paying attention to the legend you keep citing over and over again?! Where do Zekrom and Reshiram come from? They were once the same pokemon...? That's right! And they've fought each other once before. Which one of them won? Neither. Neither, because they're the SAME CREATURE! You can't win in a fight against yourself! But because nobody would change the game, because nobody would stop and think, Unova got ruined in a cataclysm of fire and lightning! THAT'S what Drayden was trying to tell me: it's hubris to think that we're somehow different, that our Reshiram vs. Zekrom fight would go any differently than the one before it! Neither of us would win, but we'd destroy the region trying!
But...but the legend... FUCK YOU, N. Fuck you, fuck your legend, fuck your dragon. Right in the eye! Ew. Your legend is in the past, but I'm making this one right now! "And then, Manic realized the folly of pitting the true legend against itself, and destroyed the pokeball containing Reshiram!" AT LAST, I AM FREE OF THE MACHINATIONS OF MAN...BLESS YOU...MORTAL... You...you murdered...Reshiram... There's no more conflict, N. No more duality, no more of this insanity. Unova is truly safe. No! This ruins everything! The legend can't come true now! Like hell it can't. This isn't the legend of Unova, this is my legend! THE NAME IS MANIC, MOTHERFUCKER, MAYBE YOU HEARD OF ME!
If this is not the legend of Reshiram and Zekrom, then it will be the legend of N! You think so? I will make it true with my own skill! Time out. I...you're...what? I'm using a time out. Wha-you don't get time outs!
Here you go, Arthur. Turns out Toxic wasn't such a hot idea. I shall wield it with pride, milady! I can't believe I'm allowing this. Just give me a minute. I need to heal up. You need to- oh, just come here!
There. Now can we start the climactic final battle? I don't see why not. I hope you don't expect me to surrender Zekrom. It would be less douchey if you did, but no, I don't. Milady. I have a request. Yeah? What's up? It is the dream of every knight to slay a dragon in single combat. Then you want to... Grant me this one boon, I beg of you.
I will lead with Zekrom. Together, we will make my dreams a reality! And I will lead with Arthur. Together, we'll make a stand for the welfare of all of Unova's citizens!
Okay, Arthur. Let's lead you off with a couple of X-Defends. Defensive? You have no chance of winning if you can't muster the courage to fight. Says the guy who puts up a Light Screen. You think this is for Zekrom? This is for the entire team. Zekrom, Fusion Bolt his champion there! Nnnngh...now I understand the purpose of those X-Defends! Right. Here, have a Lemonade, this should help. Hey, N! Hmmm? Guess what Arthur's favorite Fighting move is! Here's a hint:
Alone? No, of course not. Then what do you hope to accomplish? Manic, he does have a point. If my greatest Fighting attack does that little damage with a critical hit, how shall we stop him? Don't worry, I have a plan. Then N's fate is sealed. You will never have a chance to enact it.
YES! All right, I will admit, that was not the reaction I expected. Nnngh...nor I. Milady, could you favor me with an explanation? Oooh, can I? Go for it. Critical hits ignore defense modifiers, right? Indeed. Which means that's what a critical hit does to you with no defensive boosts. Right? Indeed. And that's its strongest attack. I can certainly vouch for that! [bgcolor=#fe0]I see! Which means that the damage that was just dealt to you was Zekrom's absolute ceiling.[/bgcolor] Nice. This battle is all but over. Time to start healing and buffing. Take this X-Speed, and this Dire Hit, and this X-Accuracy.
x5
Hear me, N! I am Sir Arthur, Scrafty hailing from the land of Unova! I stand before you an honorable knight, facing your greatest champion in single combat, its strength against my own, its trainer against mine! I know the pain within your heart, but it must bow before the valor in mine. And so, with one final, decisive strike:
Victory is mine! WOO-HOO! YEAH! That's showing 'em! Ye did a great job, lad! Perhaps not challenging you was the right move after all. Simply astounding. Worthy of Manic's renown, as well as your own. ...I wish Prometheus would come out and join us. Don't celebrate yet! One of my pokemon can defeat your champion, I'm sure of it! Stand aside, friends! There is yet work to be done!
For honor!
For justice!
For valor! No...no, this can't be happening, not after all my work!
For those who gave their lives in pursuit of the cause!
For... ...crying out loud.
For the will to do what is right, no matter the peril!
No, N. The dream is still alive. Your goal lives, but your path has ended. I don't understand. How is it that I still live? My Nuzlocke is fatal if I white out. The Nuzlocke that infects Unova is not. But whose...? Alder. He came to Unova at roughly the same time I did. What I can't figure out is how things got where they are. He seemed to know about his condition, but I don't think he likes being champion. That makes no sense. Someone else is pulling the strings. Probably the same person who murdered Jacob and Jonas, and possessed Bianca. When I leave this place, I intend to have a nice, long chat with him.
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Post by crimsondoom on Jun 20, 2019 21:49:34 GMT
It's interesting that apparently Pokemon can be killed if you destroy their Pokeball while they're still in it, because that brings up the question of why Ghetsis didn't just have his pet ninjas break the Pokeballs of any trainers capable of challenging that hax Hydreigon he's got.
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Post by Manic on Jun 21, 2019 4:47:09 GMT
Didn't he? Or do we just not see them?
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Post by Manic on Jun 21, 2019 21:30:30 GMT
Update #26: Justice - vs. Ghetsis
N, remember, you were never 'truth'. You were 'ideals'. Ideals are dreams, and dreams are for people that sleep. Harsh, but honest. Heh...true, even. You wear your mantle well. Look, you've had a pretty rough shake of things. You've been manipulated and lied to a lot. I think you could be a pretty valuable ally, if you'll allow it. Hmm. If I can't accomplish my dream, perhaps I can help you accomplish yours. An interesting proposition. Glad to hear you think so. Now let's-
For years, I housed and fed you. For years, I gave you privileges that other children could only dream about. You have your own castle, N. You had the finest tutors, you had every advantage a boy could possibly ask for.
Give it up, Ghetsis. N lost. Your dream is over. Fair and square! Now sit down and shut up! What do you mean, 'too stupid'? This late in the game, and you still haven't deduced the truth? That is, in itself, too stupid. Truly, his cruelty knows no bounds. Merely get him close enough for one Brick Break, and I shall silence him forevermore!
Father, I lost. How could your plans not have changed? Ugh, I can't tolerate your ignorant prattle for even a moment longer. My goal was never to liberate all pokemon, you gullible imbecile. But...Team Plasma...all our work...! If it's any comfort to you, my goal was to liberate most pokemon. Only Team Plasma would retain them. But what would you do then?
That's the long and short of it, isn't it? Ugh, finally someone deduces the truth without needing it spelled out for them! Perhaps I should have selected you as my protege instead, boy. Cheren?! I told you not to come after me! Sorry! He sort of insisted. Then it was never your goal to separate humans and pokemon after all? Bloody snake in th' grass! Hey! Er, no offense, lad.
All those lessons. All those hours spent studying facts, learning the sciences, becoming a leader. All those hours as a young child spent cowering from, comforting, or enduring the suffering of abused pokemon. It was all a lie?! Not at all! That was all true. It was simply the truth I wished you to see. It's amazing how much you can distort the truth without breaking it altogether. Nothing you were taught was invented, but it was only the most convenient of the truths. A lie of omission is still a lie, Ghetsis. You are a monster. A soulless, egotistical megalomaniac without a shred of decency.
Especially not after destroying it like that. What a waste of sublime power! What is he talking about? I captured Reshiram, then destroyed its pokeball. What?! Why?! If the two dragons had faced each other, even Ghetsis' plans wouldn't have borne fruit. They would have destroyed the region in a battle neither could win. And since I wouldn't release my legendary dragon, she was forced to do away with hers... But you still won? I have Arthur to thank for that. At your service, as ever, milady.
You're kidding, right? You have pokemon? Stupid boy. I allowed you to have an immensely powerful team, but never as powerful as mine. On the off chance you might turn on me, I always kept a full line of aces up my sleeve! Manic! My team is no match for his! N and I are both out of pokemon! None of us can help you! Heh heh. Don't worry, we've got an ace up our sleeve, too! The true villain awaits! We're nae lettin' ye walk away from this one, ye tube!
N and Alder have fallen. Cheren is no obstacle. It is down to you and me, Manic. And soon, it will only be me! I heard what you were saying, so look. Look at this room. See your final resting place! Ghetsis, you have lied to the people of Unova. You've menaced innocent trainers. You've mangled a good person's entire life. You've allowed your ambition to warp you into something twisted and evil...you're going down. Hard. I am going to END you.
Arthur, are you sure you can keep going? I...I can still fight, milady. Though I have become most weary. Take five, big guy. It's time for me to unveil my ace! Prometheus, you ready? Are you sure about this? Look, just do what I told you, and it'll be epic! One for the history books! Victor, what the hell? Send Prometheus out. What?! Now?! Just trust me! Well, okay...
Wait, what?! When did this happen?! Remember when we left the castle and you went to pick up supplies, and I borrowed him and Calima? ...yeah?
Well, we did a little training...didn't take too many Audinos, really. And a rare candy I snagged from your bag.
Did a little traveling, got him some new moves to suit his new style...
Oh, and I snagged this on the way in. Figured it might help him out. Okay, Prometheus! Hit it!
I'M A VOLCARONAAAAAAAA...
I'M A VOLCARONAAAAAAAA! *cough* Uh... Man, I told you to work on holding that note! Here, drink this.
Thank you. Now, where was I? You're a Volcarona. Ah, right. Ahem...
SUCK MY DIIIIIIIIIICK... WAT.
I'M A VOLCARONAAAAAAAA!! BWA-HAHAHAHAH! Oh, man! That was epic! That was amazing! Just look at them! What...what did I just watch? ...words fail me. I did the same thing. Well done! You told him to do this, didn't you, Victor? You're damn right I did. Just...just win already. Well, I know what'll be in my nightmares t'night... I'm terrified beyond rational thought. You must admit, Manic: it's the sort of thing you might have done, back in the old days. You know what, Calima? You're right. It kinda is. Fuck it, let's have some fun with this!
And by 'fun', I mean 'beat his pokemon to a pulp'. This certainly looks familiar. Ohhh snap. You let her rev up her Volcarona. Now you're in for it!
Type advantage? What's that? Water is who? How do I pokemon? Hah! Lookit, he's squirmin' like a landed Basculin! Be silent, the lot of you! I'm not beaten yet!
So this is the esteemed Hydreigon. Indeed! Unova's most powerful non-legendary dragon! Are you worried yet?! How does it pick its nose? How...what? How does it wipe? Can it juggle? Stop mocking me, damn you!
'kay. Dark/Dragon, huh? Man, Unova sure likes its dragon types. I cannot be defeated here, in my own castle, in my place of power!
Shhh. Hear that? What? What am I supposed to be hearing?
All the fucks I give. Can you hear them? What? I hear nothing! Well, there is one sound you should hear. And what sound is that?
Okay, now that's just rude.
You evil villain types, honestly. If you achieved your goals, you'd be miserable. What are you talking about? Let's say you really did conquer the world. Imagine it. Every region, every country, everywhere. Managing power, food, resources, economics, a military, the environment, public relations...you guys always have it pictured as this glorious thing you'd enjoy, but I bet you'd despise it inside of a week. You'd be begging to give the world back.
Oooooh. Careful with that. Huh? Evil Overlord rule. Declarations like 'I am perfection!' or 'This is impossible!' usually precede a fall into lava or the gears of their doomsday device or something. You're...you're enjoying this! You know? I really kinda am. That was the idea all along, wasn't it? Well, Calima and I got to talking. You deserve a little fun. The Manic of old was, in no small part, successful because he enjoyed what he was doing. In front of all these people...I'm a bug, we don't even have one of those... Well, what do we do about N?
If you truly pity him, end his life. Wow. You're just not any good at this, are you? What are you talking about? Look at him. Go on, turn around and look at him. Look at the pain in his expression. The way he's mulling over what's happened. That's not what someone without a human heart does. Th' poor bairn. It's just nae right. My heart goes out to him. Now, in terms of law enforcement... It's all right. I'm ready to go to jail.
Kidnapped by Team Plasma, forced to take part in their schemes...I'm sure an innocent young man like you will need some counseling. Forced? But I- Of course! I know this was all against your will, and that - as a result - you don't have to be prosecuted for it. I...I see. Now, you, shit-for-brains...you've got a lot to answer for. Cheren, help me with him, will you? It would be my pleasure. Wait. Before you go. Ghetsis... Hmmm? *CRUNCH* AAAAIGH...gggh...*BLAAAARGH* That's for the Max Revives, asshole.
Sure thing. It'd be nice to have a few words, now that we don't have to worry about a beatdown. Do you remember when we first met in Accumula Town? Heh, yeah. I thought you were more than a little crazy. I was terribly confused at the time. You were still new to the region, with only two pokemon at your side. I had to know what kind of person you were.
Both of us did. You just got to talk to Ingrid, that's all. And now, I ask all of you. Are you glad that you accompanied Manic? There's nae a doubt in my mind. I would follow her to the ends of the earth! Rock solid. I have followed her across space and time. Need you even ask? It is more than my duty. It is my pleasure. I love her. Everything else is just details.
I will, N. I'm halfway there already. Are you truly? I am. Stopping you - forgive me - was a very real part of that. No forgiveness is required. I needed to be stopped. Now I'm going to go have words with Alder about his Nuzlocke, and more things that don't add up. There's more to this mystery. And somehow...I want to get home. If it can be done, you can do it. You are a woman of limitless potential, Manic. Never forget this.
And there he goes. His Zekrom yet lives? You can't really kill a legendary pokemon, Arthur. Not permanently. You can sure as hell inconvenience it for a while, though. I'm tired, lass. Let's go find th' fire-haid man an' get some answers, aye? Yeah...let's go... Well, that's not good. She's simply fainted. When was the last time she ate something, or slept in a bed? A few days ago. C'mon, let's get her home. We can catch up with Alder later.
What? No it's not. We still have to figure out how to deal with the Nuzlocke epidemic, and get a hold of Alder. Plus I'm pretty sure she wants to become champion. Get that shit outta here!
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Post by Manic on Jun 21, 2019 22:08:10 GMT
It was only a matter of time.
A force like Ghetsis and a person like Manic can't exist in the same world without eventually coming into conflict.
Oh, and in case you forgot about the nut shot? Manic promised to do this when Ghetsis gave his little 'gift'. Just following through!
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Post by ghostwriter85 on Jun 22, 2019 0:52:34 GMT
*chuckles* Gotta like that fourth wall break by Victor. And it's always satisfying to see a villain get their comeuppance.
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Post by Manic on Jun 22, 2019 13:46:52 GMT
Update #27: Phase Two
Buh...where am I? What happened? She's awake! You've been out for three days. What happened is that you didn't take care of yourself, and you passed out after N flew off. There's still much to do, you have to take care of your body's needs. I'll keep that in mind. Wait, if I've been out that long...c'mon, I think we need to pay Alder a visit. Agreed. There is much I wish to know.
Have I taken leave of my senses? O...kay, maybe I should go back to sleep? Hello, dear. Hello, dear. Riiiiiiiight. I'm going back up to my room now. When I come back down, I need there to be only one of you.
Yeah, uh. Looker? That's seriously your name? But of course! It is obvious that I am skilled in seeming of other people, yes? Is why I am called Looker! Want me to defenestrate him? Not yet. So, 'Looker'. Why exactly are you here? It is as with every Manic! You have done the big thing.
Who does this guy think he is? Please, it is the necessity! This region, I am new to it. Many places for old men to hide! Are ye up fer it, lass? If this guy thinks we're going to drag our butts around Unova hunting for those old geezers, he can suck my gigantic green- We'll do it. What, seriously? Leaving them to their own devices is how things got this bad in the first place. Each of you should be able to handle anything we face, and we don't want them reviving Team Plasma. Come, friend. Our task is not yet completed. Besides, we need to find Alder and have that talk with him. Very good! Very very good! Here is the Super Rod then, and 23 skidoo!
What the hell just happened?
GAH! Cheren, you scared me half to death! Very sorry, that wasn't my intent. Wait. You were eavesdropping, wouldn't you? I t-tried to tell him not to... Yes, I wanted to hear what you were talking about. Well, he certainly is a straightforward young man. I'm afraid I have some bad news for you: since the incident at the castle, no one has seen Alder. What, no one at all? Even the Elite Four don't know where he is...it's very disconcerting... Fantastic. Since we're on the topic of bad news...
YOU WHAT?! Aww, you scared the Pidoves away... I'm sorry! The Shadow Triad had me at knifepoint. It was let him go, or get gutted like a fish. *sigh* After all that work... What's the problem? What's the - Victor, Ghetsis is free again! Right! And what's he likely to go looking for? N? Nope! Remember, he wrote N off. The...sages! Bingo! So all we have to do is find them, and we'll probably find him. And as it so happens...
Manic, why is it that whenever I see you, you're always shouting? You have the best luck in the world. Well, suppose I tell you something that'll make you feel better? You implanted a tracking device in Alder's hair and we can find him with it? What? HAH! No! Not a bad idea, though. No, check this out!
My enthusiasm is beyond compare. I knew you'd love it! Anyway, see you around! Ahem. AS I was saying, I snagged something off of Looker when he wasn't...looking! Yeah? Looks like a note. Looks old, too. Please, open it, let's see what secrets it hides. Let's see here... One in a place where dreams can astound One in a cave that's afraid of the ground One in a castle that stands nevermore One in the sand gazing out at the shore One in a building so cold one could die One on a plateau looks down from on high. Hmmm. Do you suppose these are clues to the locations of the sages? A place where dreams can astound... Th' Dreamyard, lass! It has tae be! Then let's get moving!
That's new. The cone's been removed. Rotten criminals. No respect for the law. Normally I'd agree, but this makes things awfully convenient for us. Everybody stay close! Nothing has been let out of here in a while. Who knows what's around?
GAH! Why does everyone want to do that today?! Hee hee! I just wanted to see if you could be taken by surprise. Well, your answer is yes. Feel better? Somewhat. Do you remember when we surprised you on your way into the castle? Hard to forget. I was pretty worried until the gym leaders showed up.
After all, you seemed to take it in stride. If only Ghetsis had been present...ah, but he wasn't. Here, he gave this to me, but I have no pokemon any longer. Now you can have it. Oh, uh...thanks! And now, the gentleman who's been following you can take me away. Wait, what?
Hey, where'd he go? Looker appears to have absconded with him. Well...one down, five to go, I guess. Oi, th' pokemon around here are tougher! Diff'rent, too! ...huh. You know what that means. New catch time? New catch time!
Named for the founder of sleep therapy. Yes, you're very clever. Let's go. Wow, who put a Scolipede in your fur? I'm bored. I've hardly been doing any fighting. You know, she's right. Dawn, why don't you take front for a while? Now you're talking! Calima, any more luck on that puzzle? Without more local knowledge, I'm of limited use here. Perhaps one of you would be better off? Well, let's see. Castle that stands nevermore...gazes at the shore...cave that's afraid of the ground...stands on a plateau...wait. So cold you could die? Where's it still gonna be cold? Ah-HA!
The c-cold storage! B-b-brilliant. Let's just hurry this up! M-m-manic...p-please... Calima, Victor, pokeballs! *pchoo x2* Everyone else okay? Refreshing, actually. Glad to hear it. Let's get through here in a hurry. Hopefully, this will be the last time we ever come here!
You have no idea. Oh, I have some idea. Manic, yes? And supposedly the same Manic from fifty years ago. Something like that. It's complicated. Also, irrelevant. She is who she is, and she brings justice. Ah, yes. This is the Scrafty that singlehandedly defeated our lord N, yes? His name is Sir Arthur. Och, nae you, too...
In truth, though, it was a living death. I suspected that he was disingenuous from the start, but I couldn't be sure...and here we were, on the verge of changing the world. It was a life worth living...but it was, in the end, wrong. When villainy is afoot, no other end presents itself. He's right, you know. You were doomed from the start. Hmmm, quite. Take this, if you would. It's a memory of a time I'd rather forget. Thank you. Also, Looker, you can come out now.
Aaaand they're gone. Where to next, then? Four clues remain: a cave that fears the ground, a castle that stands nevermore, a plateau overlooking the world, and a place where you can gaze at the shore. Well, I know where I'm going. Outside! Pray, outside, milady? If we stay here any longer, I'm burning you for warmth. Oh! Right. Heh. ^.^; How silly of me. Now let's hit Nimbasa, it seems like a good home of operations.
Telegram for...Manic? Wait, are you the Manic who- Whatever it is you're about to say, the answer is probably 'yes'. Wow, okay! Well, this telegram is for you! Wait. Telegrams are still a thing? Why wouldn't they be? I guess I just...huh. Hmmm. Nevermind then.
M,
John, Reed, Ben, and Sue started playing cards. Each anted an aspirin. Born blind, vicious owls, Mr. Abrams. Immanuel's 20,000 trees. When entertained, greet the sun.
- A.
[/spoiler] [/font]
[/div]
Well, that was enlightening. Another riddle! It's safe to say that you are M, Manic. A must be... Alder! But why is he contacting us by telegram, and why like this? And where is he? Sorry, the entire thing looked like gibberish to me, I haven't a clue. Perhaps it is not a riddle, but a series of riddles? When entertained, greet the sun. The sun...the sun rises in the east. When entertained...Elesa! Nimbasa! Go east from Nimbasa!
It's incredibly rare! It evolves- Into Gyarados, I know. Ah, a connoisseur! Then you know how marvelous it is! Hey, buddy? Hmmm? I'm from Hoenn. Oh. I'll, uh, just be on my way then. You do that.
FUCK. This time you're mine! The land's betrayal! Concussive Str- Dawn, wait! They're not approaching. This time is different... Oh, come on!
By his order, these are for you. It's not more Max Revives, is it? My kicking leg is still good. (Manic got the Adamant, Lustrous, and Griseous Orbs!) Okay...that's nice, what are they for? We do not know. We only know that they are for you, and that we are not to search for Ghetsis any further. ...which means no more orders. Which means no more reasons to appear out of mid-air, yes?
In that case, zip up your fly. At least leave with class. Wha...? Made you look.
Hmmm. Low visibility plus new territory equals bad times. Stay close, people. It seems that no amount of flapping my wings will dissipate it. Victor, perhaps if you could duck under the mist? Worth a try. Hey, it worked! Over here, I found a trailer!
Oh man, my kingdom for a Ditto! Kingdom? Sorry, figure of speech. You're not looking for replacements, are you? More like backup. You don't drive a nail into wood with a wrench. Right tool fer th' job, aye? Implying I think pokemon are tools. Just being prepared, is all. Who knows, one of you might decide you're sick of all this and want to be boxed. Wanna go on to the next building? Yeah, sounds like a good idea.
Well, all the Unova ones, anyway. And ostensibly, all the Hoenn ones. You must be Manic! That's me! How would you like to bring all of your Hoenn pokemon over here?! Ahem. Look, it's really very simple!
For the love of Arceus, shut up! I...you...what? It won't work. It can't work. But it will and can! Aren't you listening? Look, Calima here is the only Hoenn pokemon that made it. All the others...all my friends...even if I could... Shhh, it's all right. Come here. What she's trying to say, you thoughtless turd, is that she's fifty years in her future. All of her pokemon from Hoenn have, uhm. Y'know. Oh. OH! I'm sorry, I didn't, I wasn't thinking... It's...it's fine. I'm sorry. Just a sore spot with me. We really should just go.
Wow. So this is what Opelucid would look like if Halloween puked on it and everybody left. A mercifully quick recovery. Milady is strong, she'll persevere. Outwardly, aye. Inwardly... Funny thing about deserted towns. Sound really carries, don't you think? Bugger.
Hmmm. This gives me an idea. I'm listening. Prometheus, see if you can stir up some rustling grass. I'm on it...ah, here we go. Milady, perhaps it would be better if we were to-
Wait until after...our catch. Drat. Oh, I get it! The Audinos here are much stronger, so we can train more quickly. Very smart. Now, weaken it so I can catch it. Come again? She's joking. That is a joke, right? Ye want an Audino?! Well, yes. Not for the reason you think, though.
There you are. Perhaps now you can elucidate? Certainly. You know that if my first catch in an area is a dupe, I can ignore it and take the next, right? Oh yeah! It's hardly ever been an issue, but I remember once or twice. Audinos are the most common pokemon in rustling grass. What else do you see in rustling grass? Etrollgas. And? Ah, yes. I see! Very crafty. Hmmm? Crafty. Not Scrafty. Powerful pokemon tend to hide out in shaking grass. By essentially giving up our catch for one route... ...we kin get sommat better elsewhere! Nice! Bingo. Now, let's head back to Route 15 and see what we can get there. Er, I seem to have run afoul of a trainer. Huh? Okay, go ahead and finish it off and we'll head out. Uh...about that...
Groudon's goiter, look at the level of that thing!! Er, a little help here? It's a, uh...oh, man, I saw one back when I visited Kanto... Ye dinnae know what it is? They're not native to Hoenn or Unova. Sorry! But it's a Ground type all right. Victor, can you help out? I'm on it!
Thank goodness for Coil, that's all I'm saying. Okay, the skull-headed dinosaur thing, I kinda get. What the hell was the other one?! It appeared to be, uh...a multicephalic egg-headed ambulatory palm tree. Man, I am never going to Kanto. Hear hear. Now then, to Route 15!
*sigh* Okay, fine. Not what ye were hopin' fer, aye? See that big patch of grass over there? The shaky spot? Aye? See that enormous damn lizard emerging from it? Bloody 'ell! Yeah. We could've gotten one of those. Etrollgas. At least now we're free and clear.
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Post by ghostwriter85 on Jun 22, 2019 14:26:04 GMT
It's nice to see Dawn get to do her thing every now and again. Isn't 'defenestrate' an awesome word? XD
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Post by Manic on Jun 23, 2019 10:46:30 GMT
ghostwriter85 Pretty sure it's one of the best words in the English language.
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Post by Manic on Jun 23, 2019 16:03:55 GMT
Update #28: The Round-Up
Okay. What do we have left? Cave that's afraid of the ground, castle that stands nevermore, sand gazing out on a shore, plateau up high. A cave that's afraid of the ground. Twist Mountain? We've seen too many caves, let's do a different one. A castle that stands nevermore... Milady...a castle that's fallen! Relic Castle! We did find one of the sages there! C'mon, let's go!
Nice to see you too. So...you're saying that a candy bar will wake up these statues? I know, I know. Sometimes I feel like a nut. (Sometimes I don't.) But give me a break! It really satisfies. *snrk* What're you snickering about? We've got to get you to have a little more fun.
Well, here we are at the bottom again, and no sign of any sages. Which way d'we go now? Left or right. Hmmm. Can we do one, and then the other? You really dig this stuff, huh? Ugh. Victor, please, the puns. Pun or no, I live for this sort of thing. Also, shame on you. Anyway, yeah, if we don't find what we're looking for we can come back.
Oh, look. A Team Plasma dork. And a track star at that. Look at him go! Let's show him that he can't hide from us. Yeah, sounds like a plan. This guy's liable to lead us to a sage!
Hey, thanks! Huh? Well, I wasn't completely sure that there was a sage down here until just now. And looking for a pokemon, you say! What? No! There are no Volcarona down here! Okay, now you're just doing it on purpose. Perhaps he harbors some secret resentment against his former teammate. Yes yes, very nice, don't care. Can I pummel him now? Sure, let's just get-WHOAH!
This guy hits like a ton of bricks! If it'S aLl the SamE to yOu, I'm juSt goiNg to siT doWN for a SeCond... Dawn? You okay? She appears to be fine, just badly battered. Let us be more cautious henceforth! Looks like our track star got away, though. Ah, it's fine. We got what we needed. C'mon, let's see if we can track this guy down.
Hello, Manic. Why am I the only one who can't sneak up on people? What's that about? You're in a ruin. There's no other sound around you. Oh. Yeah, I guess that might have something to do with it.
So, is this pretty much how it's going to go with all of you? Beg your pardon? You pour your hearts out to me, offer me your last TM, and Looker carts you off? In the end, it is all that remains to us. I see. You really are beaten, aren't you? Not just logistically, either. You have brought us low. Now, we take what we can get. Expecting sympathy? I should hope not. Only know that, for an instant, we held the fate of the world in our hands. Now, let's see about that pokemon you were after...
Uh...what? It seems to have been driven mad by years of isolation. Prepare yourself for an especially vicious assault! By the gods, it appears to be level...70! Arthur, you know what to do!
Remind me never to anger you. Should I turn such power on an ally, may I never fight again. Nice sentiment, but you have to be prepared to take any of us down if we go rogue. Even me. Well, aren't ye a barrel o' sunshine.
...wait a minute. I just pieced something together. Please, do share. If Ghetsis is still out there, he's going to want power. That means he's going to want pokemon. Naturally. Victor. How many legendary pokemon are in Unova? Sheesh, let's see. There's Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, Tornadus, uh... Gahhh. Once we re-capture these sages, we're going to need to track them down before he can! He's one catch away from rebooting his scheme!
Ugh, finally, some stairs. Let's get the hell out of here.
WHAT. Manic! Is that... It sure looks like it! Do you think I might, uhm? Do you really even have to ask? Wonderful! Let's make a quick stop at the center. I just had a thought about the 'shore'. I think we need to talk to a friend.
Bonjour! You need my help again, oui? Boy, do I ever. Hey, remember Routes 17 and 18? The desolate ones, non? Yeah, uh...think you could give us a lift? It would be my pleasure, ma chere!
(And, soon enough...)
How did it all go so wrong, I wonder? You started doing some pretty nasty stuff. My home...how I miss it, even now. Tell me. Has Ghetsis contacted you?
...but no. He has abandoned us. That's what I was afraid of. You seek him, then. I have to. I have a feeling that he's going to try to recruit another legendary pokemon, and then try to reassemble Team Plasma.
N will not join again at Ghetsis' side, most likely, but Ghetsis' lies may yet influence others. Please, take this, use it to put an end to this madness. And please, forgive my lord N. He knew not what he did. I will. And I have. What happened to N wasn't his fault. Poor kid. Can you imagine what having the carpet yanked out from under you like that would do to you? And now, I am off for my due punishment. I will never see my home again. Don't lose hope. Just hang in there, cooperate, and you just might see home once more.
He deserves that right. I have to agree. Arceus, everything Ghetsis touches suffers, doesn't it? Milady, he seems genuinely penitent. Perhaps the riddle...? Ah, right! Hey, I wonder if you could help us with these? I'm still looking for a cave that's afraid of the ground, and a plateau that's up high. Hmmm. The plateau doesn't quite fit anywhere I've been, but I think you might need to think laterally for the cave. Twist Mountain, right? Perhaps you should rethink what 'ground' means. Och, it's so simple! Madison? You've got something? Aye! It's nae talkin' about the ground beneath our feet! Then wha- OH! Of course! Duh!
Chargestone Cave! A cave that's afraid of the 'ground'! I'm nae just another pretty face, mmm? Damn right. You know, I'm just not gonna go there.
You were less than nothing to us, then. A nuisance at best. Yeah, well. Surprise! At the time, we could not have known. Nah...back then, you probably couldn't have.
What, seriously? It is all I know. I am Manic. I'm a trainer, I'm the instrument of Team Plasma's destruction. What else do you need to know?
...you brought two dorks to face me. I did. And this one thinks he can take me down. He does. Despite knowing that I beat N and Ghetsis. Hope springs eternal. Never say that in my presence again.
(insert ROFLstomp)
I researched your...previous life, you know. Oh, did you, then? My apologies. I did not intend to open old wounds. Take this, as recompense. You know you have to go with the international police and answer some question, yes? I do. As do my associates here. I now know what you are, Manic. Take care. Let's head off to the east again, folks. If the last one isn't on the west side, maybe he's on the east side.
Sorry about this, Frieda. C'est d'accord! I knew the time would come. Besides, Scald does me little good now. There's a bunch of waterfalls in this area, think you can handle them? Any chance I could hide out in the ball for this part? Sure, I don't see why not. *pchoo* There we go. Why are we doing this, again? Waterfalls have to come from somewhere. I'm thinking 'plateau'. Hey, Maddy. Mind if we swap you out and Dawn in? I think I owe her some battles. Nae, do what ye must. I'm due fer a rest, anyhow! Dinnae worry about it, ye'll find th' last bugger!
Why...yes. Yes we will. Take this. What, that's it? Expecting a long, drawn-out speech? I have none. Nothing at all? I have no regrets. Ghetsis was a charismatic man, but I always followed the way of N. His goal will yet be achieved if you are victorious, I have foreseen it. Anyone else feel ripped off? Ugh, fine. Here.
Because anyone can change the world. Meh, I guess it's better than nothing.
Because you are doing the actions, all six of the sages, they are in custody! Hey, it's no big thing. Happy to help. Speak for yourself. That kinda sucked. At least we got some TMs out of it. Ah, you have received the reward already! Well, their reward, anyway. Yes, yes! It is time for me to be giving to you the full bounty present on these men! Here it comes! ...nothing! Farewell! Bastard! No reward at all?! Perhaps the true reward was in seeing justice done. Let's just get out of here and be on our way.
Oh! Excuse us. Hah! No trouble at all. That just means it's time for a battle! Trainer, huh? Well, okay. MINE. Whoah. You've been restraining me and restraining me and restraining me. Now it's my turn, and don't you dare tell me to stop! Well, okay. Go for it. It's just a trainer, after all. Rrrrgh, damnable thing has a million HP...hey, what does Fissure do? Fissure...WHAT?!
SON of a biiiiiiitch... DAWN!!
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Post by Manic on Jun 24, 2019 9:05:36 GMT
At least all the sages have been caught! So that goal has been met...but what about Alder? What's the story with the riddles? And are the sages really beyond redemption?
And Dawn, there at the end...ouch. That's gonna leave a mark...
Stay tuned, we're in the home stretch!
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Post by red5 on Jun 25, 2019 2:56:27 GMT
Freaking one hit ko moves. x__x Ugh.
But! Eagerly awaiting these last few installments! Especially in this run, I feel that Manic has grown and learned so much, it gives even more weight to the already excellent story.
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Post by Manic on Jun 26, 2019 0:09:10 GMT
Update #29: Full Circle
Where is she?! I can't see her! C'mon, you're tougher than that! It is too dark...I cannot see anything! A hole? Did ye hear that, lass?! I did! Dawn! Are you all right? I think she's getting closer! A hole?! Weird. Is she...laughing?!
I represent the rising dawn, you fat tub of refuse! Did you think you would finally be the one to do away with me, with a HOLE IN THE GROUND?! Ohhh shit. Did you see how she jumped out of the fissure like it was nothing? I think she's mad! Ha-ha! Good show! Lay on! Uhm, I think we should look away for this part. Agony's reprise! Stifle Breath! *squish*choke*gasp* Ewwwwww.
So, uh, we done now? Bastard made me skin my knee. Ah, madame - your adversary, he will recover? Let's just say he'll never use that attack on anyone ever again. OKAY! I'm willing to take that at face value. Let's just pretend none of this ever happened. You're learning. C'mon, looks like there's a shrine over there. Let's go see if they offer healing services.
...right. I'll get right on that. You sound insincere. Yeah, I get that a lot. Look, legendary pokemon are nothing but trouble. I'm sure this Landorus guy is really powerful and whatever, but if you don't mind, I'll take a pass. *sigh* As you wish. Besides, I saw something outside that interested me a lot more.
HELL YES. Prometheus, eat this! Wonderful! A fine replacement for Heat Wave. I'd give it to more of you, but, well... Can't. Beyond my scope. Dinnae look at me. You're joking. Tempting, but no. Yeah, that. On the other hand, check it out, wild Pokemon!
A Cottonee and...a Vulpix! Wow, okay, I don't normally like fire types, but that is adorable. Dinnae be fooled, lad. It's a crafty one! Rrrrgh...it does seem to be putting up...quite a struggle! The Vulpix line is highly secretive. It has - ouch! - many tricks at its disposal! Yeah, but this one just seems intent on beating the stuffing out of you! Okay, Arthur, Calima, hold it down! Hurry, milady! Aaaaaand... *click* Whew! Let's not do that again. In fact, screw this place, let's just leave.
...I don't feel it. Nor will you. Landorus requires two other legendaries to appear, and one will not show its face while the other persists. So we don't have to fight this thing? No, we don't. Y'know, I think I'm okay with that. Hey, look, there's a town up ahead!
I just never get tired of that. Intriguing. How d'you mean? Have you found any areas suitable for diving thus far? You know, now that you mention it...ah, screw it. Let's just move on. I'm sure the opportunity will present itself.
Wow. They have wild Crobats here? I guess? Just keep it away from me. Milady, you look puzzled. ...Golbat is supposed to evolve into Crobat through happiness. Aye? Lots of wild pokemon can live perfectly happy lives without trainers, you know. Maybe. Anyway, get comfortable, folks. This looks like a prime training spot. You mean we're going to genocide the Audinos? Uh...well, we're certainly going to fight them. Pray, sir, do not be so morbid! Just callin' it like I see it!
(And then we trained for quite a while!)
Ahhh. I feel much better. We seem to be roughly on par with the local trainers, at least. Aye, an' I'm rarin' tae go! I'm with Madison. Let's go bring some justice to these lawless hooligans. Sure, but let's see what's up there on that ledge first. Just a quick lift up, and...
Okay, it's official. I love Eastern Unova. Me again? See previous discussion. Now if we can just get you a special Bug type attack, we're golden! I feel like the understanding of one is slowly beginning to come to me. Ah, level-prescience. Can we discuss this on the way forward? Well...certainly, I suppose. A match made in the absolute weirdest part of heaven.
...I don't know what to say. That certainly looks familiar. I should say so! It was the weapon wielded by that strange prehistoric pokemon. Looks like it doesn't do much for anyone else, though. Come back tomorrow, I'll probably have something new! Oh? Well...cool, thanks! Nice guy, huh? Yeah, it's a nice change of pace.
What, these Gram things are yours? No! They belong to Wingull. It's in the delivery business! ... Did I say something wrong? No, no. Just reminds me of something, is all. How did such a business get started? Oh, they say a Pelipper from Hoenn started a delivery business something like fifty years ago, and it's been running strong ever since. Huh, look at that! I think the Wingull likes you. Hey there. It's nice to meet you.
You okay? ...Perry... His legacy lives on after his departure from this world. He would be proud. We should all be so lucky, lass.
Passing through.
New route, new catch, forever boxed. That was quick. Seriously, even if I wanted to have another Grass type, I could do better than that. Aye, 'tis true. Oi, ye see that? Oh, man. I wonder if it'll be something equally amazing?
Hmmm. Not sure, huh? Don't get me wrong, your nature is well-suited to it...and it doesn't have that special attack nerfing that Leaf Storm does. It also doesn't have the same stopping power. I think you should hold off. Are you sure? It'd improve his staying power. Well, what do you plan to do? Let's wait. We're doing okay as we are, and we can always swap it in if we need to. You're the boss, boss.
Wow. There's not a whole lot going on in northeast Unova in terms of towns, is there? It's not even a matter of being good anymore. It's a matter of being better than what you have. Seriously. I'd much rather have Frieda by my side than the Golduck here. Is there a particular reason? Sure! Frieda is, well...strong. What you mean is, you're used to her and you care about her. You talk too much, Victor.
Route 11. You know what this means, folks. Aye. Opelucid's on th' other side o' this route. Gliscor? Looks very much like a Gligar that's evolved. Yeah, but Gligars don't evolve. Who cares? It's strong, catch it. Yeah, okay. Sheesh, be careful with her!
... Manic? You okay? Let's just put that away. What's going on? In Hoenn, Flannery was losing our match, so she had her Torkoal use Overheat. Aye, seems logical tae me. She had it use Overheat on me. I was bed-ridden for some time. The wench! That's incredibly unethical! She lost her right to own or train pokemon for it, as well as her gym leader status, but...yeah. I still remember. Impressive you survived. C'mon, there are more waterfalls down here.
Why are you hiding under a bridge? Because I troll you. You are Manic, yes? Well, yes. How do you know me? I hail from Kanto. After our Manic left, with our previous champion defeated, there was a vacuum of power. A woman named Genwyn stepped in and assumed the role, touting the superiority of Kanto pokemon. Like that tree-egg-head thing? I assume your Serperior is referring to an Exeggutor. Yes, like that. Since then, we have had two missions. One, spread the glory of Kanto pokemon to all regions. Unovan pokemon are ridiculous and weak by comparison! Fascinating. Why are you telling me this?
Two: Eliminate anyone who takes the name Manic, as retribution for abandoning us. Fascinating. Madison, would you intimidate his bug, and then Fire Fang it out of our way? Aye, lass! Be just a minute. You should have studied Kanto pokemon more closely, Manic. This is a Pinsir. Ugly little cuss. An ugly little cuss that knows Superpower. What the hell is a Superpower? Manic! Withdraw Madison at once, Superpower is a Fighting attack! Heh! Too late. It's...it's okay. Madison can tank that. Madison can tank anything. She's proven it again and again. Maddy...
...Maddy...?
MADDY!! Burn, you wretch! Madison...c'mon, you can shake this off! N-nae, lass. This's th' end...listen close. I'm here, Maddy. I'm right here, I'm not going anywhere!
Madison... Listen, lass. Put a stop...tae th' legendaries. Find Alder. Don't ye dare give up... I won't. I promise, Madison. I won't lose it like last time. I'm so sorry... Wot're ye sorry for? I got tae see all o' Unova! Got tae fight like a demon! It was an honor. Madame. You were a valiant comrade. Your company shall be missed. Not just for your combat prowess, either. You are a good friend. They will pay for what they've done. I swear it! If only we'd had more time to get to know one another... Stow that...got tae tell ye somethin'... What is it, Madison? I can barely hear you! Tae play cards...someone's gotta deal...woobats...born wi'...no eyes...vicious...kill... She's...she's gone, Manic. I am so sorry.
Hey! What are you doing?! Breaking your mountain climbing gear. What does it look like? Why the hell are you doing that? You have no living pokemon. Oh boy. This doesn't look good... Fine, then. Take me in, I'll do my time. Dream on.
Wait! Where are you going?! You hate Unovan pokemon so much...let's see how they feel about you. Are you nuts?! There are wild pokemon everywhere down here! Yes. There are. If you stay away from the wild grass, you'll simply starve to death. If you don't, you'll likely be torn limb from limb. You can't just leave me here to die!! Watch me. You Genwynners may have taken something precious from me, but you'll never get to enjoy the glory.
Madison... I can't believe she's gone...I always thought she'd go all the way with us... I pretend at being a knight, but in truth, I cannot even save a damsel in distress. Don't blame yourself, Manic. Nothing in Hoenn could learn Superpower, fifty years ago. You couldn't have known. Blame...myself? It's true. Even I had never seen that move before. I don't. Don't what? I don't blame myself. I don't blame any of you, either. None of this was my fault, or your fault, or Madison's fault. We've done all that we can possibly do to try to make things right, and I swear on Arceus itself, I'm going to punch, claw, bite, kick, scream, and shred out of my way anything that has the temerity to stand in my way while I end this!! Simultaneously terrified and aroused...
Front and center, recruits. One of you is coming with me. I need whoever will rip this region a new dream hole. Who's with me?
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Post by Manic on Jun 26, 2019 0:11:31 GMT
She was *so close* to going all the way...
Welcome to a darker side of Manic. That trainer gets to choose how, but not if, they die.
And we blow right past denial and into anger...
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Post by crimsondoom on Jun 26, 2019 0:40:51 GMT
Ah, Maddie. Warrior to the end, but a canny one, too. Having the presence of mind to suss out even part of the riddle, while dying, and then being able to communicate it with said fatal injuries is impressive. I've mourned her death already, so I have some freedom to think of things like this, I guess. It helps that she didn't have unfinished business: from the beginning, we knew she was there to crack skulls and take names, and that's how she went out.
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Post by Manic on Jun 27, 2019 10:16:31 GMT
Update #30: Hiding in Plain Sight
Hmmm. They're all pretty plausible choices. They all have at least some type redundancy - except Frankie and Violet - but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Any of them could be good. Perhaps a trial run? Trial run...hmmm, sure, okay. Listen close, newbies! We're going to take each of you out for a little Tympole Training. Let's see how each of you handles yourselves.
Tod, huh? You're up first. Oh boy! Just get me into combat, you'll see what I can do! Hey there, little guy! Oooh, kindling! Uh, no. Teammates are not kindling. C'mon, let's go find you a Tympole.
AH-HAHAHAH!! LET THE FLAMES CONSUME YOUR FLESH! THE FLAMES SHALL DEVOUR YOU ALL! BE PURIFIED IN AN INFERNAL CRUCIBLE! What...the fuck...was that?! That...that was Tod missing twice before going all crazypants on us. Ah, milady...may I suggest gently dissuading him? ^.^; Tod? We'll give it some thought. We have to interview everyone, to be fair. Okay! See you in a while!
...no.
Is it my turn? It sure is, Lumiere. Wonderful. Easy now, big guy. Don't get too enthusiastic on us. Life is a gruesome facade, a mockery of the finite dressed in flesh and blood. Enthusiasm is the act of deceiving oneself. Uh, right. Look, we found you a Timburr by accident. Is that okay? Irrelevant.
Love...love will tear us apart...again... Yeeeeeesh. Well, it worked... Yeah, because the Timburr took its own life! I'll, uh, keep you in mind if we need a goth presence on the team. Waiting forever...my heart is a nexus of the void. ...right.
Oh, Arceus. Please don't be creepy. I'm not, I swear! After that guy, anything's an improvement. Whatever. It's Tympole time.
Violet? Violeeeeeet... Like, what? Battle? Tympole, here? Oh, hee! That's cool. *pffft*POP!* The f...where did you get bubble gum? Oh-em-gee, I always carry bubble gum! It, like, helps me bite better and junk. So, want to dispatch this Tympole? Tsk, what-EVER. *air slash* Like, totally awesome, right? We'll be in touch.
Please, please don't be a weirdo. Lady, you got some real weirdos in there. Ugh, tell me about it. All right! Now, this's the audition for the replacement for the fallen comrade, right? I don't know if I'd say 'replacement'. Stand tough, fella. I know it's rough, losing a broth-uh, sister-in-arms. But you gotta set an example! War is hell, junior. 'Junior'? Excuse me? Hah! Just yankin' yer chain. C'mon, let's go get this done.
Hup! Victor, establish a perimeter! Camillia or whatever, keep th' skies clear! There's bound to be more of 'em! Calima. Well, he's very different, that's for sure. Yeah...interesting guy. Tough, obviously been fighting a lot, but he's not making the greatest first impression. Shall we finish our interviews? Yeah, that sounds like a good plan.
Please don't be crazy, please don't be crazy... Hi there. My turn? Y...yeah? Nice. I'm Vanessa, and I want to join you. Okay. Why? I saw what happened to your friend. It sounds like you could use the help. Besides, Unova needs some cleaning up. And you're not a freakshow? What? No, none of that. I'm just an ordinary girl. Well, maybe a little better than 'ordinary'. Besides, I have something the other candidates don't. What's that? A multi-dimensional personality. SOLD! Now, let's see about getting you decked out.
Hey, niiiiice. You know how to treat a girl! Milady, there is much you must know about Manic, us, and our journey. Mmm-hmmm. How about you tell me, big guy? Uh... Aw, don't be jealous! I can listen to all of you. Riiiiiight. Calima, how about you explain it all? I'd be delighted, but I'd like to speak to Lenora, if I may. I'll do it. Short and sweet. Spoilsport.
Lenora? Calima wanted to speak to you. Oh? What about? This message. We believe it's from Alder, but it's a riddle. Can you help me to research it? Side-by-side with the Calima of the stories? I'd be delighted! It'll take some time, though. It's okay. We have some things we can take care of in the meantime. We'll be back for you soon, okay? Take your time, please. We'll be here when you return. So, where are we going first? Training. Vanessa needs to get caught up to the rest of the team.
(So we trained. For hours.)
Milady, what awaits us herein? I'm thinking it's time to start trimming down Ghetsis' choices. Ah, I see. We're going to fight some legendaries now, hmm? Yeah, and who knows what level they'll be? So you trained us all to level 66! I get it. Which one is in here? Beats me, but remember the old guy we found in here? Yeah? He said there was a legendary in the back of the room. I say we go get rid of it!
That's a legendary? Don't let its diminutive size fool you. Seriously. Remember, Shaymin, Mew, Jirachi...all legendaries. Point taken. Okay, who leads? May I? Huh? Sure, I guess. Take care, madame! Aren't you just the sweetest thing? Don't worry, I'll be very careful.
...dafuq?
Mmm-hmm. This is a prank, isn't it? Okay, where's the real deal? I assure you, that is the real Cobalion. Okay, wait, I get it. I see. Pray, milady. Share? See, the first one is kinda weak, right? And the second one is fairly tough. The third one is gonna be a beating. It scales! How does that make any sense? Vanessa, could you Earthquake that thing? C'mere, sugar. I'll try to make it quick.
Well, one hit is pretty quick. So, the middle one is probably in...what, the mid-to-upper fifties? Probably. Challenging, but nothing we can't handle. Where to, then? Huh. The notes say the next one should be in Pinwheel Forest. Sounds like a good time. Let's head out. Should we stop and tell Calima? Considering how quick this was? No need. We'll come back after this.
What's the big idea? If these things are all fighting types, Acrobatics will suit you better. You will give me Brick Break again, right? Sure! Just not this very moment. Well, all right then. Let's see this tougher legendary.
That is...exceptionally disorienting. Foul play! Comes with the territory, I guess. Brace yourselves for anything!
BWAAAA-HAHAHAHAHA!!! Oh man...oh, wow...are those leg-warmers?! The 1980s called, they want their style back! It d-does remind me of a...jester of sorts...*pfffttchchch* Nice, uh, neck leaf. *snrk* Oh Arceus, oh Mew, my sides! It's certainly, uh, distinctive. Oh, honey, come here. Let me help you with that.
Much better. Wow. I just don't even know! Is this some kind of joke? Okay, okay. Maybe it's one of those things where only the final one is a challenge? Possible. It is on Victory Road. Ah, see, there you go. That's the trick. We're supposed to let our guard down now, and then the big one comes in and sweeps up. Mayhaps we should go and train more, then? Actually, let's see what's up with Route 7, first. Somebody told us about it on the way up Victory Road the first time, remember? You think it's still going? One way to find out.
WHAT THE HELL? I CAN BARELY HEAR YOU, MUCH LESS SEE YOU! WE HAVE TO STAY OUT OF THE GRASS! AAAGH, IT HURTS! PROMETHEUS, VANESSA, GET INSIDE! *pchoo x2* VICTOR, ARTHUR, DAWN, STAY CLOSE! MILADY! AHEAD, A HOUSE!
Hell yes! It seems the torrential downpour is easing up slightly. Let's go in. I need to get dried off. You're sure in a hurry. Ever smelled soggy Cinccino? Yikes. Right! In we go.
Woman, you are a life-saver. Oh, pshaw. Though it's nice to hear people enjoying my soup instead of complaining. This is exactly what I needed! Delicious! More, please. So, what's with the crazy weather out there? Oh...it looks like Tornadus is back in the region. Who?
Okay, see, that sounds like something Ghetsis would want. With such power at his command, he could bring Unova to its knees! Agreed. But if it's that fast... Worse, it never stays in one place long enough for a round of combat! Dawn, we're going to need your speed to fight this thing. Say no more. Ma'am, we're very grateful, but we have to get out there. There's someone who might try to turn Tornadus' power to his own selfish gain. I understand, dear. Be well, come back anytime!
There it is! SHEESH, look at that thing. Somebody fell out of the ugly tree, hit every branch on the way down, and bounced. Ugly or not, if it bleeds, I can kill it. The land's fervent wish! Stone Barrage! ...you...missed? I don't miss. It just didn't fall yet. I dunno, I'm pretty sure you didn't catch him with- I. DON'T. MISS. ...with enough force to take him down this time, but I bet you'll finish the job next time! Bank on it. Madame does not handle failure well. Thanks, Sir Obvious.
(Then we tooled around northern Unova for a while, until...)
Wow. Will you look at this place? The home of Kyurem. GAH! When did you come back out? Once we got dried off. Hmmm. A giant chasm. Looks like a huge hole to me. Not gonna say it. Oh, grow up. Y'know, I think we should get Calima back before we head in. It's been a while.
(insert trip back to Nacrene)
Calima! Lenora! Any progress? Quite a lot. Her insights have been invaluable! You are astoundingly knowledgeable yourself, Len. Len? Ahem. Right. Well, here's what we've discovered:
Ben, Sue, Reed, and Johnny are the names of the Fantastic Four. Aspirin is a medicine. A drug, if you will. And to play cards, someone has to deal. Poor Madison had probably already figured out the first line: the Elite Four is dealing drugs. I'd suspected as much.
The second line was more difficult, but again, Madison's help was invaluable. Woobat are born blind, with no eyes. So? On its own, that doesn't mean much. A quick search on IMDB gave me J. J. Abrams. J. J... Jonas and Jacob! Right! So we have the start and the end... I believe I have the middle. Do you, then? Both of them were murdered by a force beyond our reckoning. "Born blind, vicious owls, Mr. Abrams." "I know, who killed, Jonas and Jacob."
The last line you figured out on your own, but this one requires...well, suffice to say, I think Alder expected you to come to me first. There are a variety of famous Emmanuels, but the most famous Immanuel is Immanuel Kant, a German philosopher. Right. And the number 20,000 is most prominently featured in the title "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea". I've got this one. I don't like that grim expression. What do trees have? Bark? Roots. Leaves... "Immanuel's 20,000 trees". "Can't leave league." Then... Then they're keeping Alder there. Probably because of what he knows. We've got two missions again, team. One, defeat the remaining legendaries. Two, rescue Alder. Calima, I need you with me.
Why are we venturing into this place? If the local legends are right, a legendary of terrifying power lives here. The kind of thing that would make Reshiram or Zekrom look like a Zigzagoon. And what of Tornadus? If we have trouble catching it, stands to reason Ghetsis will too. We have a little more time there. If this thing is stationary, though... ...then he'll come here first. Right. This place is a huge maze, though! Of course. That is part of why she needed me. Bingo. Calima, would you fly up and scout? There appears to be a cluster of items up north, and a central location into which the maze spirals. Let's see what's stashed here first.
Nice! Ugh, ice. I'm a warm weather kind of girl. Well, fortunately, you don't have to worry about it. Oh? We have the upper hand; we know the themes of the Elite Four. Ghost, Dark, Psychic, Fighting. No dragon-type trainers like before. We don't actually need Ice Beam right now, but it's damn nice to have. Suits me. C'mon, I see the center of this place!
Is that... Milady, it appears to be...snowing? Okay, seriously, winter? Give it a rest already! Something is wrong here. Very, very wrong.
What the fuck?! M-M-Manic... Vanessa, Calima, Victor, into your pokeballs! *pchoo x3* Arthur, Dawn, stay close! Prometheus, do what you can to keep us warm! We head north, I see a cave! S-strikingly quick... C-compliment me later. Inside now!
Fffff...okay, that's Kyurem, right? That...is most assuredly Kyurem. Looks like it's asleep. Gods be praised. Prometheus, can you determine its level from here? Sure, just a se-GAAAAAH. Prometheus? Uh, it's level 75.
So, uh, yeah. We'll come back later. I can take it. ... ...okay, okay. No I can't. *pchoo* Calima, can you fly us out of here? Quietly. Yes. Yes, I will do that. Right now. Where to? How about Route 9?
I THINK WE FOUND TORNADUS! HEY! HEY YOU! ASSHOLE! MAYBE IT'S NOT SMART TO PISS IT OFF? YOU'RE SCREWING UP MY HOME, JERKFACE! PREPARE TO TASTE MY RIGHTEOUS FURY! IS THIS A GOOD IDEA? NO! BUT I DON'T THINK WE GET A CHOICE!
DAWN! THAT THING IS, LIKE, TEN TIMES YOUR SIZE! HONEY, YOU'VE GOT NOTHING TO PROVE, C'MON BACK! THIS THING IS SOAKING MY HOME, IT'S CROSSING ITS ARMS AND GLARING AT ME LIKE I'M FUCKING UP SOMEHOW, AND IT MADE A FOOL OF ME EARLIER, AND YOU THINK I HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE?! MILADY, MAYHAPS YOU SHOULD KEEP HER POKEBALL AT THE READY?
THE EARTH'S INEXORABLE PULL! GAEA'S RAGE!
FU...er...wow. Run from that, you sanctimonious windbag. Whoever you get as a mate will have to be either incredibly brave, or profoundly stupid. Well done, girlfriend. Of course, I knew you were never in any real danger. You never cease to amaze me, madame. So much potential knowledge, lost... No one was hurt. That's good enough for me. So, Dawn. You just took down a legendary pokemon in one round of combat. What are you going to do now? Heh heh heh...an encore.
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