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Post by Manic on Mar 8, 2019 5:20:04 GMT
I recall having a character arc planned for her, but I have to admit, I've long since forgotten what it was.
She was fun to write for, though. Easy-going, sassy, maybe a smidge on the violent side.
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Post by Manic on Mar 8, 2019 5:55:58 GMT
Okay. Bossman?We're going to stay out of their way. Uh...you do realize we can't actually do that, right?Sure we can. I just never said for how long. Tricky.Hey, I see no need to start a fight...yet.
I mean, it's not like we don't have things to do. Mmmm. A cup of tea sounds lovely right about now.And I wish I could give it to you, but this is for those thirsty guards. One cup?That's right. Four guards, one cup. Aw, man.Really, Manic? Really?I don't get it.You're better off.
Thanks for the coin case, buddy. I'm telling you, don't do it! The place is run by...Team Rocket, I know. Then why would you go there?!Three reasons. One, they have pokemon I want. Two, they have TMs I want. Three, I'm going to stomp them flat anyway, so it doesn't matter if they get some of my cash. Well. If you put it that way...
Sweeeeeet. An Eevee! MANIC, STOP!Wha, huh?! What's the deal? Don't forget your rule.4. Gifts, trades, etc. all count as the pokemon for their respective area.Meaning you can have the Eevee...OR a pokemon from the Game Corner...but not both.
Fine. Okay. Let's stop and think for a moment. I'm going to need a water type for Surf, and that's what I was going to do with the Eevee...but I won't get the badge to allow Surf until after I beat Koga. By the time I do that, I'll be ready to take on Silph Co., and in there, I'll get a Lapras. Therefore...Dratini it is! Um, wow. Okay. I was sort of expecting Scyther.That seems a bit like overcommitment to bugs. What a stupid idea! RAAAAAID?!Besides, Dratini will eventually become Dragonite. There's a reason they're nicknamed Superman. But we're not going to lug it around forever, so...
It is. Really, really tasty. Think the road might open for a tea this tasty? I really shouldn't...Oh, that's okay, then. My Butterfree has been jonesing for some tea, I'll just give it to her. Okay, okay! I'll share with the others and spread the word. Just gimme!Man, you guys need to unionize.
If I read your town map right, this is a major strategic windfall for our side!It's true! From here, we have easy access to almost the entire region!Never underestimate the power of a good cup of tea.
I know this place!Think we all do, kiddo. You thinkin' what I think you're thinkin'?Ohhhh, I get it. Not bad.Right. We put the Dratini into the daycare, go on about our business, and by the time we're ready for the Elite Four? We've got a Dragonite waiting for us. You know it won't evolve while in there, right?No big deal. Rare candies, remember?
Okay, back to what we were doing before. Time for a shopping trip. Sounds lovely.Yaaaaay!Do we have to?You guys can hang back if you want, but they've got stuff like vitamins, TMs, evolution stones, all sorts of stuff. Oh, that kind of shopping!Yeah. I can only think of one thing we're definitely going to buy right now, but I want to know what's available. More healing items? A straitjacket? BARREL OF CHEWING GUM!
I'm thinkin' that's gear for me.True. Somehow, the image of you as a Bellossom is... *pffffftcccch*Laugh it up, lizard-lips. The bossman knows better.Let's hold off a little bit, though. Why?Stone evolutions generally stop learning new moves after they've evolved. Let's see what else is on the menu. You're the C.O.
Oh, hey. What's it do?Reflect. Reduces physical damage done to us for a short time. It's the best of the three options. I mostly came for the Lemonade, to be honest. C'n I have some?Sure. This stuff is better AND cheaper than Super Potions. How so?Super Potions cost 500 and restore 50 HP. Lemonade costs 350 and restores 80 HP. Then...why would anyone ever buy Super Potions?Same reason Manic did. Lemonade is only available here.Anyway, enough about economics, let's move on.
(And then some grinding happened...)
Gahhh, how I hate the physical/special split in this game. No Pursuit?Afraid not. See, in Gen 3 and before - which is where we are now - all Dark moves are Special. Your physical attack stat is wonderful, but your special attack stat makes Pursuit not worth it. Hmmm. So, for example, that would be a bad attack for me to learn too?Well, not as bad for you, since your Special stat is actually decent. But the basic idea holds, yeah. I think I'm getting the hang of this.
Lacey, when did you learn to do that?I just touched a funny circle in Manic's bag!Buh...how...? *sigh* Manic, I know you're not used to young children, but please, make sure your bag stays closed from now on.Er, right. Sorry. Hmmm, I wonder what we might find in there. Fork 'em over! OLLY OLLY OXEN-FREE!Randy, no! If you just swim around in them, lord only knows what moves you'll end up with. I promise, we'll do a TM-usage period soon. (Actually, I've got a few in mind for you.)
Oh, right. This guy. What a creeper!Lacey, stay behind mommy.Want me to Sleep Powder 'im?Nah, he's a lech, but he's harmless. He doesn't even talk to anyone who doesn't talk to him first.
Okay. I think we're as ready as we're going to be. Actually, I think we're...If you're going to say 'overleveled', don't bother. Gary may be a jerk, but he's right about one thing. What's that? Your inadequacy? ONE PLUS ONE IS TOMATO!Grinding is an edge we have. If I'd used it right...well, I won't make the same mistake twice. Manic...He's right, ma'am. Best thing we can do is learn from it and not repeat it.Yes, well. I suppose you're right...
Vacant enough for you?Uh, come again? There's a reason all of the trainers in here are women, you know. If I could get away with it, I wouldn't take male challengers at all!Did we say something offensive? Stuff it! LADIES, PLEASE!None of you have any style, any subtlety! Look at your male pokemon! One digs around in the dirt, one looks like he wants to eat my darlings...Hey, I do not!...one sets everything on fire, and that one...don't think I don't see how you're eyeing my Vileplume!Miss, that's one hundred percent fabrication.Ugh, a military man. Why am I not surprised? All you men know how to do is destroy! Well, let me return the favor!Fine. For this battle, I choose Lacey, Susan, and Aaron.
Funny, that's what Brock said. And Misty. And Surge. Those weaklings? They're nothing compared to me.I'm not going easy on you, you know. Just like you, I'm fighting to win. You'd better, because I will too!
Yeah, you too. That's all you care abo...Stop and think for a moment. Doesn't this seem like a double-standard to you? What are you talking about?
You belittle men for appreciating strength, then boast about how strong you are. If we're impressed by your strength, you say that's all we care about. If we're not, you accuse us of discounting you. How is that fair?You're giving me a headache...Keep it up, it's working! So, what DO you want us to do? Appreciate you or not?I don't...I'm confused...You've been played, but not by us. Gary has taken your natural distrust of men and twisted it into contempt and hatred. How would he do something like that? And why?Those are both very good questions. When I asked, all he said was that he had 'friends in low places'. That could mean...excuse me. I need to place a call immediately.
Shouldn't we see who she's calling? Pay attention! BANANAPHONE!Let her be. I don't even want to know how it feels to have your mind messed with by someone like Gary. You've already felt what it's like when he just uses his words.He's a big stupid-head!HAH! Can't argue with that, little miss. What's our next objective, bossman?Ugh, this is the part I always hate. The plot kinda slingshots you around at this point. Let's see what's over to the west.
Oh, right. I keep forgetting about these guys. Maybe if we politely ask him to move?He's a Snorlax. He's staying asleep until we get the Poke Flute. Then it's a retrieval mission!Sort of. To get the Poke Flute, we need to rescue Mr. Fuji. To do that, we need to scale Pokemon Tower. To do that, we need the Silph Scope. Getting dizzy...urgh. We're in fetch quest hell! RING AROUND THE ROSIE!Fortunately, I know exactly where the Silph Scope is. But first, while we're here...
Please, don't tell anyone where I am. Any time I leave this place, my mind goes strangely cloudy.Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. Manic, that's a bad sign. Her mind goes cloudy?The enemy is marshaling his forces. We need to get a move on!Mommy, am I gonna go cloud-headed too?Shhh. It's all right, mommy's here. I've got you.I don't think we have to worry about it. I seem to be immune, and so do all of you.
Oh, hey, sweet! Load it up!Yeah, that's great. Good for you, Trevor.Hey, Trev? Think we could hold off for a bit? Good decision. What? Why?No time for joyrides, son. We got a Silph Scope to grab!Uh...sure! Okay, Hank. I guess that works.One more thing, before I forget.
Instead of Metal Claw?Yeah, how come?Metal Claw served us very well against Brock, Manic.Think about it, Aaron. What is Steel super-effective against? Ohhh, I get it.Could you explain it to us? Spill it! RANDY HURT ITSELF IN CONFUSION!Steel is super-effective against Rock and Ice and that's it. Fighting is super-effective against Rock and Ice and Normal and Steel and Dark.Less PP, but a lot more offensive power. And with the Raticates that Rocket is sure to have...
...speaking of which. Is this some kinda joke?The entire organization is a joke. The only one we have to worry about is Giovanni himself. Let me guess: he has the Silph Scope.Yep! And we're going to take it from him. Don't get your feathers in a ruffle. As easy as Erika was, this'll be a snap.
Every time I do this, I'm reminded of how much I hate spinning panels.Could be worse. They could be warp panels. Oh, lord...What's a warp annals?Warp panels teleport you from place to place. They get really disorienting. I can plan out spinning panels for a minimum of distance, but warp panels really are a matter of luck. I'm not much for unknown elements.Oh, how you are going to hate Sabrina's gym. God, you just had to bring that up.Warp panels everywhere. In fact, that's the only way to get from place to place. Swell.
Thanks. Now, we'll be taking that Silph Scope. Absolutely. I'll lead off with my Onix; send out your Gloom, there. Once my Onix is down, I'll switch to Rhydon so you can keep going, then send in your Charmeleon for my Kangaskhan.Fuh...wha? All right, I'm confused.It's some kinda trick!
I think...I think I believe him. What I don't understand is why.It's really quite simple. It's in my best interests for you to put an end to Gary's plan. I may be a criminal, but I'm also a businessman.Okay, wait, hold up. Why would you benefit from Gary failing? Hah, I get it.Then perhaps you'll do the honors.If Gary takes over, Giovanni will be the only real threat left. No way he'll be allowed to live.Precisely. The script dictates that you have to defeat me to get the Silph Scope, but it doesn't prevent me from aiding you.Well...I'm prepared to chance it if you are. Hank? Still don't trust him, but I'll give it a go on your sayso, bossman.Excellent. Let's begin.
Well, whatever else may be, it worked like a charm. For as long as your victory suits my needs, you have nothing to fear from me.Still don't trust ya.Good. You would be a fool to trust me, and I have little use for fools.Then why hire your, uh, associates? What's with the moron squad? FILE NOT FOUND!Scripted goons. I hate them all.
Perhaps you have what it takes after all. For all our sakes, I certainly hope so. Now, get moving. I'll see you at Silph Co. in Saffron.Right...
Okay, is anyone else mildly freaked out by the fact that our best ally so far is a mob boss? More than slightly. Lacey, just remember: he's still a bad man.Your mom's right. He may be helping us, but it's only for his own selfish needs.Ummm...okay!I suppose, as long as he's using us, we may as well use him. If he double-crosses us, we slit his throat! I LIKE WHEN THE RED WATER COMES OUT!O...kay. We really need to get that looked at. Keep combat-ready and we should be all right.C'mon, Manic. We have business inside, and not just with Mr. Fuji.That's true. Come on, time to put this to bed.
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Post by Manic on Mar 8, 2019 6:04:44 GMT
Giovanni is nothing if not pragmatic. If Gary wins, he loses. So if Manic is the best chance against Gary...the enemy of my enemy, as it were.
Anyway, Erika's down, granting us our fourth badge. And she seems to have some notion of what's happening...
Pay attention to the next update. It will contain a defining moment for Manic as a character.
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Post by Firebrand on Mar 8, 2019 17:10:05 GMT
Looks like my hunch about Giovanni at the beginning was right! Not exactly who I would have expected to be Manic's most forthcoming ally in a normal run, but supernatural evil forces make for strange bedfellows.
On the whole, the run's proceeding in a way not too dissimilar from the Emerald one, although obviously with a slightly darker tone overall, but the team dynamics keep it from getting too grim. Hank's stolid soldierliness and Lacy's innocence definitely keep things fresh, along with the Dugtrio's split personas, although his name escapes me. Vince's antics too, before he got boxed. Actually speaking of Vince, it seems like Manic is still the cautious player he was in the previous run, but crit happens. It's a shame Tina got axed so early on, but it didn't leave too much of an impression since we barely got the time to know her as much more than an HM mule who liked shiny things. But boxing Vince afterwards made sense narratively (and mechanically, since he'll be kind of useless for a while, but I won't get into that) since behind his wacky fratboy hijinks, he always was the team heart. And I don't think there's going to be a Dana/Hope miracle at the end of the run this time, but I wonder if Gary will be able to use Tina in some way? Cram her spirit into one of his pokemon and make her fight Manic? I thought that might have come up but maybe I imagined it. In any event, we haven't seen the guy since before Tina died, so I guess I'll find out soon enough.
Manic's interactions with the gym leaders are also interesting. Gary messing with their minds and playing off their insecurities helps give the battle some extra stakes, which are kind of needed since Manic grinds his team so hard that it's easy to breeze through most fights, barring any random crits.
And since we're getting into the creepypasta part of the game, I'm wondering if we'll learn more about Gary's dark powers and how they came to be. It would be a good time to do some exposition, especially since Fuji was involved in the creation of Mewtwo, who I figure is the one pulling Gary's strings considering the Deicide rule.
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Post by Manic on Mar 9, 2019 12:55:16 GMT
But first...Lacey, Randy, I'm going to try to keep you two out of the fight. 'Sokay...I'm kinda scared of ghosts anyway...Any particular reason? Losing your nerve? CASPER, THE FRIENDLY GHOST!Nothing like that. The tower contains mostly Gastly, and a few Cubone. Randy, your Ground moves will be useless on the Gastly, and Lacey, your moves won't be very effective in any case. It's all right, sweetie. Stay with mommy.Hank, you're on point. I gotcha, bossman.
Jeez, Hank. Seriously, we need to talk about your impulse control. Wow, she's almost out!Sorry. This place gives me the creeps.I can't blame you. Tombstones everywhere, possessed mediums...this place is creepy as hell.True, but...it's also the proper resting place for Tina. At the top, anyway.
Violet, huh...unlikely to use her, I admit. 'Cause she's scary?No, no...see, remember how all dark moves are special, and you're a physical attacker? Uh huh?Well, all ghost moves are physical, and Gastly is a special attacker. Like me, only flip-flopped!That's right. Also, she creeps some of the others out, and I like to maintain a happy team. Keepin' morale high is a good call.Don't worry, Lacey. The scary ghost can't get you.
(Along the way...)
Now, that's a Fire-type attack!Lovely! Even better than Confusion.Oh, very nice! Flamethrower is probably the best Fire attack in the game. How's Psybeam stack up?5 less PP, but 15 more power. You're gonna hafta break that down for me.Um, right. Okay. A little less ammo, a good bit more firepower. Now you're speakin' my language!
Mommy, I'm scared!It's all right, sweetie. Mommy's right here. Could one of you...Be my pleasure, miss. C'mere, you creepy crawly!
Bah, my recon's gone AWOL!Manic, use the scope, hurry! Hank can't defend himself against that!Don't need to tell me twice! I'm sure there'll be no problem. If Manic will get the lead out! PEEKABOO!
Hah! Yer in trouble now, lady!It's a Ground type, Hank. You know the drill. Whoah! She's a lively one!Hank, watch it! She's weak to you, but you're not strong to her!What's that?
Hank, be careful! Holy... that was one Bonemerang?! If that had hit a few more times... Well, it didn't! And now it's my turn. I'm real sorry about this, lady, but I gotta do what I gotta do!
Rest in peace, ma'am. Yer kid's okay.That poor woman...I can only guess at what she'd been through.Hey, man. You okay?Just got something in my eye.All right, team. Let's go rescue Mr. Fuji and put Tina to rest. But first...there's no longer any reason not to do this.
Just let me know if you want it to stop, Hank. I can always buy another Leaf Stone. That's a negative, sir! If this is how I get the job done, it's go time!You know, we're pretty lucky to have you around.He's right. Your attitude is a kick in the tail, in all the right ways.Glad ya like it, fellas. I ain't goin' anywhere.Very nice. Now, c'mon, Let's clear these bozos out of the way. Trevor, you hang back. The poison is no big deal. We'll be out of here long before we have to worry.All the same, I'd like Susan to take point on this. Her Psybeam will be a big help against their Poison types.
Koffing, huh? Same as before. Susan, light it up! Absolutely. ...well, that wasn't supposed to happen.I hate it when they hang on with a tiny sliver of health.That's strange. Why is it glowing like that?No...SUSAN, GET BACK!OOF! Trevor, what are you...
TREVOR, NO!Trevor!Is she...safe...Man down! We've got a man down!Oh dear god, Trevor!Mommmmeeeeeeee!!No...this can't be happening. Why'd you go and do something stupid like that?! ...Y-yeah, buddy...she's safe. She's fine, she's right here. Hah...maybe I'm not so bad at this...after all.
Trevor...Trev, buddy, get up! We're supposed to go flying when I evolve, remember? Get up!He was...a damn good soldier. And a friend.He was a hell of a guy.Trevor...god, Trevor, I'm so sorry. How many more people are going to die by my hand? Nobody's died by yer hand, son. When 9/11 happened, we knew not to blame the guards. It was the damn terrorists. They're the ones doing the killing.That's it. I wasn't taking Team Rocket seriously, but there's no more of that. We're not done here until their group is history, down to the very last man, including Giovanni.
If you'd stopped interfering, none of this would have happened!What...did you just say? Well...well, it's true!
Start running. Wh...what?I said, start running! Why?Because I swear, if I ever see you again, I'm going to twist your head CLEAR OFF YOUR NECK. EEP!
I saw it all, but I was powerless to prevent it. I am sorry for your loss.I...you...thank you. He was a treasured teammate, I can see.He was a damn fine soldier.He was very good with children.It's not fair! *hic*He was a better man than I.He was a dear friend.He was a hero. In the truest, most real sense of the world. He had more courage than all of us combined. I will give you time to lay your fallen to rest. Please, see me when you are ready.
I have been in touch with Professor Oak. The fog that clouds this land is not yet all-encompassing, but you seem to feel your loss more keenly than most.That's...not really a matter of the fog. I've sorta always been like that. It's true. You should have seen when he lost Dana.Who?His Vigoroth. In his Emerald run.You mean, you've put yourself through this before? On purpose?Those were some lucky pokemon.Wait. Randy? When did you get all stable? I...I don't know. I saw Trevor laying there, and how you all acted, and everything just seemed a lot clearer.Take a day to relax and grieve, friend. But here, don't forget this.
To awaken those who slumber.I already know exactly where to use this. Thanks. Manic, remember this: though the mind may fade, the spirit is eternal.They...they won't come back as ghosts, will they?No, young one. Their spirits were properly laid to rest. They will rest in peace.
Trevor...sleep well. You won't be forgotten. Manic...it's time.No, Aaron. It's not. I can't fill the hole left by Trevor, not this soon. I think we'll be arright with just five for a little while.I need to make a call. Could you guys wait for me in the pokecenter? Of course. Take all the time you need. Come on, everyone, we could use some healing too.
Manic, my boy! I heard about what happened to Trevor. Selfdestruct is a horrible move.Oak...I don't know if I can do this. I think you may have the wrong guy. There's no question in my mind that you're the only one who can do this, Manic. You have to keep going.Damn it, Oak! Those weren't batches of pixels, those were people! Real life people with thoughts and hopes and dreams, and now they're dead! Very well, Manic. If you really want to return, come back.What...seriously? Seriously. Mew will recover in due time, and we'll send you back, perhaps recruit someone new. The game will reset.... ... ... Manic?I'll keep it in mind. I need to think about it. See you later.
Did you get the answers you needed, Manic?No. Are you okay?I don't know, Lacey. Who did you call?Professor Oak. I asked...if he would send me back. What?! You're turning tail on us?No. Now I'm more sure than ever that I'm needed here. Why? What happened?He said yes, Aaron. He told me to come back and he'd send me home. But that doesn't make-
Professor Oak is dead.
Then Chance...If he's lucky, then yeah. But then, even if we win...!There's no reason to think that Mew is dead. It's the ultimate in elusive. If it escaped, we have a way home. How can you keep going, after all this?
Oak believed in me. He told me that I was a champion. And you are. I've seen the proof.A champion turns tragedy to triumph. I've seen that look on mens' faces before.The three tenets of Nuzlocke, team. Always and forever. Never give up. Never forget. Grind like hell. Anyone who wants out now, just tell me. I'll bring in replacements...but I'm in it to win it. Anything less dishonors the memories of those we've lost. Lacey and I won't back down.Those stupid buttheads stink!How can I turn down a man who put Humpty Dumpty back together again?You even gotta ask?Can't get rid of me that easily.All right then. Let's go get our sixth team member.
Susan, you're on damage control. Put him to sleep and keep him that way. He's got a strong special defense but weak physical. Use Gust. I'll keep you healthy. Jeez, it's like he's a different person.That's grit, boy. That's what it looks like when a man gets up again.I understand. Leave it to me.
Welcome to the team, Creosote. Sheeeit. Thank ya kindly fer wakin' me up! I was gettin' mighty tired of bein' tired.I'm going to need to get you caught up to everyone else...but first, we have another roadblock to take care of. If y'need my help, just hollar!Don't take this the wrong way, but it'll be way too even of a fight if you're involved. Susan here will do the deed, just like she did with you. Incidentally, this is Aaron, Randy, Hank, and Lacey. Welcome aboard. Hi there, big guy. Welcome to the team, soldier! Kitty!
What now?Same strategy as before, except this time, we're not trying to catch it. Ugh, it keeps going to sleep on its own, and healing!It can't do that forever. You've got more Gust than it has Rest. Whew! I'm winded. That took a while!Yeah. Now there's one more thing for us to do.
!!!This is way overdue. I'm sorry I've made you wait this long. Consider this a promotion!You earned it!
YEEEEEEAH!Hee hee...you're silly!That there's a helluva sight!You look very handsome.I knew you'd get me here! I knew it! I could just...c'mere!Less hugs...crushing ribs...need those...!Er, right! Sorry. Forgot. Aheh...I have something else for you, too.
Looks like I'll have to do the flying for both of us, Trev...What's he jawin' about?I'll tell you the story on the way to Fuchsia.We're not going there right away, though. We're not?No. First, I'm going to do something I should've done a long time ago.
There, that's better. Susan, Aaron, Hank, you're already pretty optimized. When I have enough cash, I'm gonna buy Creosote a Shadow Ball TM, but that's down the line. You've been saving this for a while, huh?Yeah, I was waiting for the right time. All of this made me realize something, though: this is the right time. There might not be a tomorrow. I c'n git behind that.All right, now we're ready for Fuchsia. It's bicycle time!
Oh god I forgot how much I hate bikes!I'm taking the underland route!Thank god I learned to fly! Lacey, we're flying too! Okay, mommy!Don't sweat none, y'all. I got this! OOMPH!Standard airbags, huh? Not bad.
Where did we pick him up?!Worry about it later, bossman!Ain't this a hoot?!No! No, this is most emphatically not a hoot of any kind!Y'all just got no sense of adventure! YEE-HAW!
Oh, thank god... Everybody okay?Yup! Big stuff here's even crazier'n me!I'm gonna take that as a compliment!Well! How...comforting?That looked fun! My turn next!Muh...maybe next time... Awww.
I need a rest...oh, man. I think I may be sick. It's okay. I think we all need a rest, right about now.
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Post by Manic on Mar 9, 2019 12:56:43 GMT
The loss in this update is something Manic will carry with him through all of his days. Actually...both of them are. And yet, winning is all about getting up one more time than you get knocked down. Also, meet Creosote! It won't become obvious in this story, but Creosote has a special role. Firebrand: Trust me, the grinding thing isn't something that lasts. In fact...well, I won't spoil the surprise.
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Post by Manic on Mar 10, 2019 16:56:19 GMT
All right, everyone. Let's hit the Safari Zone. Like a zoo?Sort of, except that you get to catch and keep pokemon. Don't worry, they've been taught not to fight. It's like a game. Sounds a bit like hunting, to me.Well, it is, except that the pokemon aren't hurt. Case in point: if I'm not careful, they can run away. And there's no risk?Only if you count paying five hundred and risking the small chance of getting nothing a risk. Why doesn't Team Rocket do that, then?Have you been watching the same Team Rocket I have? Those guys couldn't strategize their way out of a paper bag.It's true, most of 'em need to go back to basic training...Enough about them for now. The Safari Zone has four areas, so I get four chances to catch something. Let's see what we get!
Welcome to the team, Ellen...Maia...and Mike! Kinda slim pickings.Hey, they can't all be Scythers. Now, everybody split up, okay? Let's make this trip count. Lacey, look through the entry zone for anything that looks like an item. Susan, you've got Zone 2. Randy, you tackle Zone 3. Everyone else, stay with me. Oh goodies, where aaaare youuuu... It's like cleaning Lacey's room. Piece of cake!Y'all really think that's a good idea?Hey, we only get so many steps...but they won't be stepping. They'll be flying and digging. You are a sneaky little bastard, you know that?And don't ever forget it.
I was beginning to think no one would ever find this place!Well, I did have to plan a fair bit to get here. I hid here after I snagged the warden's gold teeth, but now I can't get out without being mobbed by pokemon!That's what happens when you dog your C.O.!Look, I don't know what he means, but if you can get me out of here, you can have this!
Yyyyyeah, I guess it's okay. I won't even tell him it was you. You're gonna let that low-down snake slither away?I figure he's suffered enough, being stranded out here for who-knows-how-long. Mercy is one of the better qualities a man can cultivate, Creosote. You should keep that in mind.Something like that. C'mon, let's get out of here.
Aw, you scared her off! Sorry about that!Meh, I guess it's okay. I already have a Grass type and someone who's good with Psychic attacks. Really? Which one is your psychic usOWMYHEADThat would be me.Susan, c'mon, cut it out. Sorry, I couldn't help but punish him a little for making such a row.You really are a mom. Now, c'mon, I bet somebody's missing these.
Fanks a million, sonny!Come again? I sai', fanks a whole lah!*shrug* I guess that's just how he talks.Hey, warden! Sally sells seashells by the seashore. Say it!Randall! Have some respect!That's 'Randy'. And fine, I'm just having some fun.
Okay, sweet! I think he's rewarding us with the Strength HM. Is that right? *nod*Who gets the re-equip, bossman?Oh, I know who's perfect for it. Hey, Creosote! Catch! Hoo-ee! I think I could bench-press Texas!Not bad, big guy! It suits you.Wish I coulda been the one, but good on ya, soldier! You use that move and make your team proud!Also, because it's a Normal move and you're a Normal type? Attack bonus. Anybody tries somethin', they're gonna get the bull by the horns!For now, I'm pretty sure the Pokedex is full enough for...
This! Oh, hey, convenient!Whassit do?Whenever I think there might be a hidden item around, this thing will tell me if there is, and which direction it's in! Yeah, but...how does it know?... ... ...You know, I'm gonna go with 'it just does' and leave it at that. Works for me.Although, there's at least one item you can only get if you Itemfind it:
Ewwww!I know, but as long as you're holding it, you regain some health at the end of each turn. An apple core.It's true.Shore do explain them dreams!What is wrong with this world??Beats me...hey, let's go see if we can get the Exp. Share! Oh, man...that would be amazing!
Ugh. I wish I could get Oak to rescind that order. Why not ask him?Um. You...haven't been home lately, have you? Well, no. Why?Okay, you really need to just kind of stay gone for a while. The professor is working on some really sensitive stuff, something about how Koffing explode, and he wants his aides to stay gone for a while and not bother him. That's just like him, sending the message through someone else. Thanks, Manic. I'll be here when you're ready.Why didn't you tell him?Think about it. What's the first thing you would do if you were an enthusiastic professor's aide? Go try an' lend a hand...Exactly. Let's not have any more deaths than are necessary.
I wasn't going to!
Uh...thanks! That's pretty useful. ...*sigh* He thinks he's psychic....No, dear. Like this. Watch....okay, forget it. Just take the thing and go.Right. We need to see a guy about a thing.
This place is huge!The man on watch isn't watchin'.Awww, he fell asleep!Wait. I think he's saying something. The black wind howls...Wha...oh no. Oh hell no. One among you...Aaron, clock this guy! If you say so. *SMACK!*WOO-EE! That boy's off like a prom dress!I don't follow, bossman.And if I have anything to say about it, you never will.
Hah! I knew he'd try something like that!Good thing you saw it coming, right? Yeah! I really...got lucky there.Randy? You okay? Yeah, it's cool. Hey, can we head back for a minute? These guys are endless!I think we've gone through something like twenty of them!Yeah, sure. Let's get everybody healed up. Hey, Manic. C'mere for a second, will you?Hmmm? What's up?
I want you to swap me out, okay?Um...well, okay. Any particular reason? Let's not kid ourselves. My HP is crap, and a light breeze feels like a knockout blow. I'm just not meant for the long haul.Maybe, but...I mean... C'mon, you know it's true. You can't even deny it to my face. It's okay! What you've done for me, I'll never forget.I guess you have a point. Hey, Randy...thanks for all your hard work. Don't worry about it! Now, go get the new guy and get going.Which one? Okay, I saw your eyes light up when you got that Nidoran. This isn't astrophysics.I guess you have a point. Be well, Randy. Thanks to you? I will be.
One rare candy... Just gettin' it over with, huh?Hey, doesn't bother me! I've been ready to evolve for ages, but the stupid safari warden doesn't let us fight!If he did, do you think you would've made it?Hey, I can fight! And now I'll get a chance to prove it!
Now that's a fighter!Damn, son! You bulk up real nice![bgcolor=#80a0ff] You certainly look more ferocious.[/bgcolor] And I feel better, too! Now we just need a Moon Stone.
Funny you should mention that. No way!Way. He's been holding onto those since Mt. Moon.Don't bogart them, pass one over!Well, you can't say he's not enthusiastic!
Oh, HELL yeah. That's what I'm talkin' about!Nevermind 'soldier', you're hereby promoted to tank!Jeez, I think you might be bigger than me!Heh. Wanna arm-wrestle?Save it for later, guys. You may be caught up in evolution, but you still need some levels on you. Let's go make some catches, then grind.
Route 15, you disappoint me so. How come?Venonat is Bug/Poison. That spot is sorta occupied by someone very important. Hee hee!Careful, Manic. She'll start to get full of herself.Aw, shoot. I seen 'er fight. Li'l squirt's earned it!
Urgh...I don't remember wild Dittos being this hard to catch! Letting it copy me probably wasn't the best call.Yeah, I know that now, but...
Ahhh, crap! Now what? I wanna Ditto. They're pretty!Hmmmm... What's he doin'?Heh. That's his "I gotta plan" face.Hey, Hank, Creosote. You guys mind taking the box for just a little bit? Sure, I could use some shut-eye!Sure thing. Whatcha got cookin'?
Ellen and Violet? I don't get it.Yeah, you lost me on this one too.Allow me to explain, boys.
First, we find another wild Ditto. I found one, I found one!
Then we swap Ellen in, let the Ditto copy her. I'm with you so far.Yeah, okay, what comes next?
Then we bring Violet in. EEK!Manic, have you lost your mind?! Violet is completely outmatched!If this is what fighting with you is like, I want out!Did I mention Ellen's movelist? Which the Ditto now inherits?
Wow. Seriously, wow. You are alarmingly sneaky.Care to explain?Oh, right. Ghosts are completely immune to Normal type moves.Wait, so you mean...That's right. Violet is completely immune to anything the Ditto can do. And since Rhyhorn is a Rock/Ground type, Violet can hit with absolute impunity.
Susan, would you put the Sleep Powder icing on this cake for me? You really do scare me sometimes, Manic.Yeah, I get that a lot. Aaaaaand... *click* Bingo! Huh, that's weird. What's weird, lemme see!The pokeball isn't giving me a name. I guess it doesn't have one. Then what will you call it?
I know that name!Yep. Legendary Greek king, cursed by the gods to push a boulder up a steep hill for all eternity. Can I call her Sissy?Hah, sure. Why that name, though?I dunno about you, but that sure felt like trying to push a boulder up a hill to me. Try childbirth someday.I think I'd rather be shot in the head. Now, let's go get Hank and Creosote back, and stop off for an evolution.
I already have a great Fire type... Damn right you do....but this evolution should put me over the marker to get the next reward. What's that?
Double cash from every fight, so long as the one carrying this was present at some point. That'll be some chunk'a change!It gets better. Remember those Beauties on Route 15? We could barely see them from Fuchsia? That's an affirmative.Guess where we're grinding? Let me do the math here...That's about four thousand per fight. Plus a good chunk of XP. What's the catch?Catch? We'll have to heal occasionally. That's about it.
I'll win next time! Just you wait!Of course you will. Twenty-seventh time's the charm, right?
(After some rhyming and stealing...)
Hoo boy! Buddy, you got more ammo'n a gun factory!Son, you make me proud to call you a teammate.Well, uh...I just hope I'm worth all this!I'm actually a little envious! I wish I could do all of those things.You c'n do something he can't, though!What's that?Be the best mommy ever!Okay, that is adorable enough to make my head explode. Creosote, your turn!
And with that, your movelist is complete. Second on th' team ain't half-bad!Ain't gonna be too far behind ya, pal.None of you are, really. But for now, this is where we stand.
Fighting dojo. Yep.It certainly is.Uh huh!Affirmative.Okay, raise your hand if you aren't strong against fighting attacks.Ah can't do everything.
Swift and brutal beatdown? Check.Hitmonchan get? Check.Moving on? Check.
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Post by Manic on Mar 10, 2019 17:01:41 GMT
Oh, Randy. Dugtrio is just too brittle to keep into the late game. We were entering "box or die" territory.
No gym leaders in this update, but a lot of shoring up resources and preparation. Surrender progress for one update to make sure it happens in other updates.
Also, I'm still kinda proud of Stupid Ditto Tricks.
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Post by Manic on Mar 11, 2019 8:31:31 GMT
Okay, everybody hang tight. Holding position.I can see that Gary feller!I know. He's right around the corner here. Everybody ready? If I told you yes, I'd be lying.Well, we can't turn back now. Here we go...
I've been waiting here for ages. Of course, so has Giovanni, but we both know who the real threat is.Shut your word-hole, Gary. Looks like I've touched a nerve. What's the matter, Manic? Rocket more of a threat than you realized?This guy's slimier'n a slug covered in butter!Spare me the colloquialisms, Tex.Oh, this is gonna be fun.What happened to the nutcase Dugtrio? Upgraded, hmm?Hey, here's an idea. How about a battle where you don't run at the mouth like there's a prize inside? Suit yourself.
I guess he had a little fight in him.I got the eggies and mister fluffybutt!Looks like you're running out of friends, jerk.
Send Aaron out.I ain't movin'!Let me rephrase that. Send Aaron out or I will start killing your entire team until you have no choice, starting with lardass here.What'd you call me?!Ooooh, that wasn't smart. I called you lardass, you blimp. What're you gonna do, sit on me?
Yup.And gain a level doing it.
Thank goodness. I'm the one who will end you, Manic. Me. Not that two-bit hoodlum.You'll get your chance. Now, let's have the question and the rule. Ah, of course. Let's begin with the question, shall we?Fine. You said I wouldn't mind if I lost. What exactly did that mean? I was wondering when you would get around to that! It's quite simple, really. As I have explained, when you lose, my associate will pass into your world and take over.Okay, I already know that part. You will then assume the role of Red, silent protagonist. Quite mindless, I assure you, guided only by players that will no longer exist when your world is dominated.That's insane!Considering where and what we are, can you really discount the idea?That's fine. We're not going to lose, so it won't be a problem. Plod along all you like. I owe you a rule, I believe...and a nasty one, for your deceased birdbrain's last words to me. Here you are:
11. BUTTERFINGERS - Your pokemon may not hold items.You suck.Smell you later, dead man walking.
How are you going to do that, when I can beat you down every time? I believe you already know the answer to that. Goodbye.What's that snake jawin' about?More of his 'friends in low places', I bet.I'd bet good money on it. For now... Hey, wait!Aw, jeez. Another battle? No, no! I just want you to get this Lapras out of here. It's not safe here!Well, I can't argue with that...
Lapras are awfully useful. Wait. Ness? Seriously? New guy, huh? I hope he's up to the job.So do I. He's our Surf-user. Could always make him a HM sla...A what?...an HM buddy. Somebody who uses a bunch of them so the rest of us don't have to.I could, but I won't. He only needs two HMs, Surf and Waterfall. I already know what else I'm going to give him...but c'mon, we're wasting time.
It's a pity it can't be under more pleasant circumstances. Go ahead, I know this is part of the story.Shove a Fire Stone in it, you duplicitous prick. I don't know what your problem is, but I will not be spoken to in that way. Are we clear?I don't care what you want. You murdered my friend! I beg your pardon?
Something's wrong here, bossman.Trevor! You murdered Trevor! You remember, my Pidgeotto? Please keep accusations to crimes I've actually committed.Could it be...?One of your goons in Pokemon Tower had his Koffing use Selfdestruct. Trevor died because of that! Ludicrous! They may be cretins, but they're under strict orders never to use that move, especially not against you.Well, he did! I saw it with my own eyes! Trevor died saving Susan's life. I assure you, I gave no such order!Assurances won't bring Trevor back. Giovanni, I challenge you! Let's make this quick. If what you're saying is true, I have calls I need to make.
Isn't that cuuuuuuute.
BUT IT'S WRONG!
Still no match for me.Same opponent, same tactic, same victory.Mike, help me out here! Hmph! You're some kinda handful, lady! Aaron, tag in! And down she goes. Finally!
Don't bet on it. Manic, I'm telling you, I didn't give that order! I will, however, find out who did. And when I do...Mommy, the bad man seems confused.He sure does, sweetie. I think maybe he really didn't give that order.But...if he didn't, who did?
Here you go, it's the least I could do.No problem, I'm happy to- Ah, if you could excuse us....what? Well, that door was locked before Giovanni burst in. I was having my secretary take some dictation...Right! Okay, time to go, everyone! That's right up there on the list of Things I Don't Want To See! Pokecenter time.
Okay, you can have this...and this...and this. Th-thanks...um...hi, everybody, I'm N-ness...Boy, you look more nervous'n a long-tailed cat in a room fulla rocking chairs. Settle down!S-sorry, I just...I never battled...they just kept me around 'cause I'm rare or s-something...Pal, we're gonna need a fighter.I p-promise...to try?Manic...while we're going over this, shouldn't we check on Jalen?Hmmm, okay.
Wow, looks like she's been ready to evolve for a while. Finally noticed, did you?Stow the attitude, miss. This is your C.O.Yeah, whatever.Disenfranchised, thy name is Drati...
...er, Dragonair.Yeah, I evolved. Yay for me. Gonna stick me back in that dump?At this point? Seriously considering it. I did bring you something, though. No you didn't, stop lying.Ugh. Susan, could you pass these off to her? I think I'm done with her attitude for now.
Wow. These are...well, don't think it makes up for what you did! It's nice, though.Wait. What I did? Okay, I'm lost. What did he do?Who is this chick?That. That right there, what the big purple spikey guy said. That's what you did.Manic...I think you should take Jalen and Ness out for some training. It's okay, Lacey and I will stay here for a while.T-training?It's all right, dear. Manic will take good care of you.Yeah, 'cause he's a champ'n!
Crap. So much for the idea of an Exp. Share. Rough mission to handle.Oh, hey. Isn't that one of those things that shares XP?Brilliant deduction, Sherlock.Hey, smartass. Wanna see if I can tie you in a knot?All right, you two settle down. We'll do this the old-fashioned way.
(A ridiculous amount of re-killing ghosts in Pokemon Tower later...)
Okay! Everybody's caught up. I...I think I'm getting...better at this? Maybe?Well, you can't get much worse.Okay, that tears it. Let's go get Lacey and Susan, and we'll work out the team's composition from there. Sure. I've had just about enough of the emo kid.Kid's bad for morale.Fine. Don't know why I'm surprised.
Lacey, Susan. Boy, am I glad to see you! Where's my corner?Manic, dear, can I speak to you privately?Sure, just a second. Everybody stay frosty, we'll be right back.
What's on your mind? I've been waiting for this for a while, Manic. I wasn't going to do this until you had party members you could be happy with.Well, I wouldn't necessarily say happy. What's up? Manic, you're a fine trainer and a good man, but I think I'd like for both myself and Lacey to remain in the box from this point on.That's...ouch. Wow. Okay. Um... Both of us are fragile, and neither of us could stand it if something happened to the other. Plus, she's my daughter. I need to keep her safe, and she needs me. Surely you can understand.Yeah, I just...I dunno. I mean, I'll totally honor your wishes, but it feels like you're the heart of the team. Both of you. We'll always be here for you, Manic. Any time you need a mother's advice or a child's smile, just talk to us. For now, let's discuss Ness and Jalen.Okay, let's.
You must have realized their challenges by now.Well, sure. Ness is terrified of his shadow, and Jalen appears to be...well, kind of a bitch. I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that. Does Ness show any sign of having been trained before?Well, no, but he was level 25 when I got...wait. Are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting? I'm suggesting that he needs to borrow some of your confidence. And then there's Jalen.Ugh, there sure is. I can work with Ness, but Jalen has alienated pretty much everyone on the team. I'm not surprised. I want you to spend some time thinking about why.Well, okay. She thinks I've done something to her, I guess it's my job to figure out what. That's right. Go on now, be good, I know you can do this.Heh, thanks. *hug* You make a great mom.
Okay, people. Susan and Lacey are staying behind. Ness, Jalen, welcome aboard full-time. Okay...just...be careful with me?You're taking me back out?Yeah. C'mon, let's do some traveling together. Dammit.Ain't this gonna be a Texas-style rodeo.Nevermind, skip it. They hate me. Put me back....no. If Manic sees something in you, there's something worth seeing. I'm willing to give this a second chance.Well...fine. I guess we can try again.Glad to hear, because we're going up against our first big challenge.
Oh, lord. Why can't we break down the stupid invisible walls?My guess? Because the game doesn't work like that. Hmph. Let me try! *WHAM!* Ow, my hand!Don't worry about it. Like Carver said, the designers of this game loved the idea of going counter-clockwise. Sooooo...
Huh, it actually worked. Amazing.You oughtta meet Carver sometime. Not a bad fella, once you get past the mouth.I met that fella in the corral. Guess some folks, ya gotta hear what they're sayin' and not how they're talkin'.Be silent and face your end.Something's wrong here. He's not like the others.No, he's not. He's a ninja. Not a great one, because we can see him, but... I was told to present myself to you before your death....and that explains that. So? Ninjas're cool.No, Mike. Ninjas - real ninjas - were paid assassins. Trained to be unseen killers. He seems odd because he's not under control, he's under contract. Your understanding is admirable. Are you ready for the end?Bring it on, buddy. Ness, you're up first.
(Writer's note: I just wanted to include this and mention that NONE of his pokemon have even a single move that causes sleep OR paralysis!)
Here, eat this. Just in case they use Selfdestruct. W-w-wait, isn't that the move that killed Trevor?!Don't worry about it! Just keep using Psychic and you'll be fine.
I...I'm starting to get the hang of this! I don't feel so good, though...Can you keep going? What's your problem? He's poisoned, switch him out!No no, it's...it's okay...No, it's not okay! You're hurt and poisoned. Look, send me in if you have to! I'll stall this thing.That ain't a half-bad strategy.I guess. I got a better one, though.
Step 1: I pummel this thing. Step 2: There's no need for a Step 2.Jesus, Mike. Have I told you that you're a wrecking ball? Not today.Well, you are. I wouldn't want to face off against you in a dark alley.Yeah, I guess you're not that bad.What's that, again?I said you're not that bad. Now quit pushing your luck!
Now leave me. I must make preparations.Ohhh hell. C'mon, everyone. We need to get out of here. Hey, we beat him, remember? He's out of pokemon.Uh, that isn't really the reason. What, then?A ninja who fails to complete his contract is honor-bound to commit seppuku. Seppawha?Ritual suicide. Knife through their own torso. Oh, Arceus!Right. So, leaving now!
...shit. This's the place with the damn warp panels, isn't it?Yeah. Worse yet, you and Mike are at a severe disadvantage here, being Poison types. Aw, man. That blows!It's okay! We have our secret weapon. Wanna fill us in?Psychic is weak to Ghost. Who do we know who has a Ghost attack, and really high special defense? Sheeeeit. I'm happier'n a three-peckered billy goat!
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Post by Manic on Mar 11, 2019 8:32:44 GMT
And there you have it. This time, retiring Lacey and Susan is permanent. It just wasn't plausible to keep them both alive, and they're a package deal.
On the other hand, we have two new teammates! Scaredy-Ness and a very unhappy Dragonair.
And now, it's time for Sabrina! Phew. Here we go...
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Post by crimsondoom on Mar 11, 2019 17:05:49 GMT
Um. I'm going to assume that Ness's dialogue being invisible is unintended?
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Post by Manic on Mar 12, 2019 4:51:54 GMT
Ah, triple hell. Sorry. Formatting issue, I'll fix it.
EDIT: Weird. For some reason, it didn't like the color of Ness's text. I've changed it.
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Post by Manic on Mar 12, 2019 5:16:41 GMT
Okay, guys. Before we go in, let's go grind just a little bit more. You gettin' cold feet, pardner?Hell yeah, I am. Sabrina is supposed to be every bit as strong as Koga, except that she has an Alakazam. I read ya. Koga's ace was trouble, Sabrina's will be too.Just lemme pound 'em.No, Mike. You're staying out of combat in this gym. Everything will be super-effective against you. Same with you, Hank. Creosote can plow right through them once we hit level...say, 45? What about me?You, Aaron, and Ness are backup, in that order. You'll probably see some action too. Okay...so long as you don't forget about me.
(In due time...)
Niiiice. That's three out of four optimal moves of yours learned, Hank. Damn, that's some powerful stuff!You gonna dance for us, Hank? XDBoy, I read you loud and clear, but if it'll help us win, I'll put on a damn hula skirt!Yeah, um...that won't be necessary. No, okay? Just no.
(In some more due time...)
Okay, everybody ready? Everybody know their job? Stay out of the way. Maintain perimeter. K-keep my distance...? Backup if it's needed. Second banana, for now. An' I'm callin' this dance!All right, people. Let's get in there!
Wait. How did we get outside again?It's those damn warp tiles!Jus' ain't natural, if y'ask me.It's fine. Once we go back inside, we're golden. Well, I sure don't feel golden!Once we get to the first trainer room, take the top-left teleporter, then bottom-left, then bottom-left. We'll wind up at Sabrina in just four warps, if you count the mandatory one. How do you know that?I've been watching the teleporters. Instead of getting disoriented, I tracked where they go, found shortcuts, mapped it out.
It...it worked!Of course it did. Er, no! What I mean is...Heh, I know what you mean. It's okay. Creosote, are you up on this one? Champin' at th' bit!
If only you had arrived earlier, something could have been done...but you could not have arrived earlier.Well...that's technically true, but what do you mean? This world and yours alike...they are both doomed.No they're not, we're going to stop Gary.No, you're not. You're going to fight me, and you're going to win, but the Elite Four will winnow away your forces, and Gary will finish you off. I have foretold it.You're saying we already lost?No, but you will. Both worlds will fall into ruin. It is inevitable. We are only actors, playing out our roles.Well, you'll excuse me if I prove you wrong.
Sheeit, I'm gettin' bored!Wow, maybe we didn't need to grind after all.Maybe. Hey! Sabrina! Yes? What is it?If you're so sure of your psychic powers, what move will finish off your Alakazam? Your Snorlax will use Shadow Ball, of course.Think so?
Creosote! Use Strength! It's impossible. He can't.Y'all made a big mistake there...never tell a Texan man he can't!
That...that's impossible. How...Don't you get it? Your predictions are just predictions. They aren't law!If anybody could predict the future precisely, they'd be a helluva strategist!I make my own future, lady!
But my visions...they're never wrong!Sabrina...when I was younger, I watched a television show called Reboot. One of the supporting characters imparted wisdom upon the main character, and it was absolutely vital: "Chance has nothing to do with it child, the future is not determined by a throw of the dice, it is determined by the conscious decisions of you and me." If you want a different future than the one you saw, you'd better do something about it. I don't understand. Never has my vision been so clouded before. Why could I not see this?Lowdown rattlesnake named Gary, ma'am. He's goin' into folks' heads, twistin' them up real bad.Brock, Misty, Surge, Erika...all had their weaknesses twisted and turned into something horrible. Gary must have taken your belief in your predictions and turned them into hopelessness. Then why am I no longer affected?Each of the gym leaders we've beaten has been freed from Gary's control...except for Koga, who was never under it. Koga...that vile man. What became of him?We're thinking he gutted himself.Manic. Your...Butterfree, I see...was correct. You must resolve things with your Dragonair before she evolves, or disaster looms. For now, I must contact the others.Understood. We need to go too. C'mon, guys. South from Fuschia.
And there's our one water catch. One? You...you don't mean...What? No, no. We didn't so much catch you as have you given to us. But yeah, that no-fishing rule? That sucks right about now. So many pokemon I can't catch. Phew...that's a relief.Ness, listen. You are amazing. Even as Lapras go, you're a cut above. I couldn't be happier. It's true. Most Lapras just kinda HM it around and act as health batteries, but you kick ass!I do?I'm right proud to have ya on my team, soldier!I'm going on ahead. Don't wait up.Jalen, wait! Manic...whatever that is, it needs fixing.
Looks like we're corralled, fellas.Urgh. Yeah. Jalen could get through that, but the rest of us? No way. Wait a sec...Manic!Jalen's out there alone! Aaron, get us to Pallet now!Already plotting a course!
Manic, most of the trainers don't even get this far...I don't know the way very well anymore!W-w-where do we go from here...?South. We go south, and we don't stop until we hit Cinnabar Island. What if she's not there?Then we surf east until we find her. This is non-negotiable! Let's skeedaddle, time's a-wastin'!
Fine, get in the pokeball, keep moving! Sheesh, he didn't even stop walkin'!That's a man with a mission, son!Manic, are you okay?God, I'm such an idiot! Now I know why she's upset, and she's right, it is my fault. We have to find her! We'll find her, Manic. No matter how long it takes. Calm down.
JALEN! Jalen, where are you?! She's gone AWOL!All right, we have obligations, but we need to search around. Ness, you check the water in the surrounding area. Aaron, you go airborne and see if you can spot her from the sky. Creosote, you check to see if the gym's door is unlocked somehow. Hank, you take this fossil into the lab and get it revived. Mike, get up those mountains and see if she's hiding out. Let's move, people! On it! Old Amber, got it! Hup! O-okay... Simmer down, she's gonna be alright.
What...nobody found anything? The skies are clear. I'm s-sorry, she's just not out there... I dug through every nook and cranny.Then she must be in the...oh god, the Mansion, hurry! What's the rush?Dammit, Aaron, there are Koffings in there and they know Selfdestruct!What're we waiting for? Let's go!
Any other time, that kind of no-look pass would be pretty sweet!Talk later, search now!Mind that jump, bossman!Mind later, search now!
Jalen! Manic!C'mere! *hug* I was terrified for you! I...I got lost, and I couldn't go back, so I came here, and then I got lost in here, and there were these Grimers...You're poisoned! Here, take this! I'm sorry, I won't ever run off again!
Jalen...I'm sorry I've been so stupid. What do you mean? I'm the one who ran off!Yeah, but you only ran off because I was doing what I've been doing this whole time. Go on...When I first got you, I dumped you into the Daycare, and you stayed there while everyone else ran around with me. When I came and got you, you were understandably bitter, but all we did was make you feel even more unwanted. Uh-huh.And then I ignored everyone who said I needed to sort things out with you, and praised everyone else instead...I'm a shitty trainer, and I'm sorry. He does care, though.It's true...he was more scared than m-me!I never saw him run so fast before!Hell, I never saw ANYBODY run so fast before.Man don't move like that 'less somethin' real important's at stake.Can you forgive me? I promise, I'll try harder. That's all I ever wanted...thank you.
Finally! Infiltrating an enemy base. Some fun, huh?I'm done with switches for a while. Maybe forever.Can we get out of here? This place gives me the creeps.Yeah, we already found the important thing down here. Also, the key. C'mon, don't get mushy on me now...Okay, okay. I'll save mushy for later. For now, we have an old man to stop.
(On the way out...)
CREOSOTE! Back off, give the man some room!Oh Arceus, I c-can't look, is he...?He's alive, but it's nothing short of a miracle. Selfdestruct crit, and you can still move? What are you?In a catastrophic amount of pain, thanks fer askin'...No way I'm letting you get back into combat. Here, take a Hyper Potion! Holy...he used the whole thing!
All right, team. We're all at level 50. We should be okay here. What're we doin' this time?Hank, you're not even getting close to these guys. No kidding.Creosote, you're on standby. Mike, you're behind him. Aaron, Jalen, you're backup in case we need it. Y-you mean...?Surf is our best super-effective move, and fire will only do normal damage to you. If you get in trouble, Aaron will step in and tank. Jalen's our cleanup hitter. Aw, damn. All these quizzes? I hate this.You know what? I always wanted to do this.
Uh, Manic? The quizzes?What about 'em? You haven't taken any.Nope! So...we're just beating on these clowns until the doors open?Yep! Hell yeah! Look out, Blaine, here comes Manic!
Whoah! Mind the flamethrower! Can't see behind you. Who's using Flamethrower?I am! You're not taking me, I swear I'll die first!Jesus! Everybody stay back! He's not using a pokemon, he's using an actual flamethrower!I'm not fighting that!You're not taking me to jail! It was years ago! You can't prove anything!Jail? What the hell is he talking about? We've got 'em on the run! Now to chase 'em off for good!
You c-c-can't hurt Manic...I w-won't let you...!Lord have mercy, is that...H-hi...Blaine...But you...how did you get here?N-nevermind that, what's happened to you?
If you have the key, you must've seen the notes. You know what I did.I d-don't care about any of that!You don't care that your old trainer is a criminal who created a crime against nature?Old trainer... you're the one who got Ness up to the level he was when I got him!
W-we were really good friends...but he gave me away...why did you do it?You have to understand, Ness. The things that I was doing were incredibly illegal, and very dangerous. When Mewtwo broke loose, I barely escaped with my life. I gave you to Silph so that you'd be safe!Yeah...I know what it is to set a pokemon aside so they'll be safe. Wait, you mean that's why you sent me there?Dratini are fairly weak, and we got you kind of late. I thought that if I could get you to Dragonair levels, you'd be in a lot better shape to rejoin us later. I thought you just didn't want me...Looks like we have something in common, Blaine. And us t-too, Jalen. Don't hurt me!Then you're not here to...wait. Of course you're not here to arrest me. I'm a gym leader, and it's been years. That's ridiculous! What's going on?Gary must have used your guilt and paranoia to make feelings of persecution. He's been warping leaders' minds...but he's running out of targets. Actually, if you're this far, he has run out of targets. The leader of Viridian Gym is the only one left.And he's Giovanni, I know. I'm pretty sure that if Gary could've manipulated him, he would have. Go, Manic. I've heard stories of trouble on the nearby Sevii Islands. I need to get in touch with the other five gym leaders - I know about Koga, and I don't think I'll talk to Giovanni again in this life - and we need to get organized.
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Post by Manic on Mar 12, 2019 5:30:07 GMT
Two gyms, one update!
Manic finally gets clued in as to how he screwed up with Jalen. Imagine how you'd feel, rescued from Rocket only to be shoved into the daycare for ages.
Creosote gets to prove just how much of a tank he really is, too. The team's really shaping up!
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Post by Manic on Mar 13, 2019 9:23:21 GMT
Awfully nice of Blaine to charter this thing for us. He did owe us.The flamethrower thing was not cool.Aw, don't be a bunch of babies.Easy f-for you to say...you're a f-fire type!C'mon, guys. Let's just be happy we've got it and go with that.
What's with headin' south?Treasure Beach. Wow, it's been a while.Yeah...a new pokemon, some goodies, and a bit more experience. You lost me until you said 'more experience'.I promise, we'll get you evolved soon. We just need to sort this out first. If he says he's gonna do it, he'll do it.
Thomas? The Persian? Oh, c'mon. Really? Somebody's gotta sense of humor.Ain't laughin' much.I don't get it.Thomas? Persian? Tom Cat? Hey...Jalen. What were your parents like? Well, Mom was a Dragonite. Dad was still trying to evolve from Dragonair. That's the last time I saw them before those Rocket jerks caught me.That explains a lot. While we walk, let me tell you all about our back story.
Kindle Road. Huh, I'd forgotten about the named roads thing. No more Routes, huh?Eeeeh. Depends on how you look at it. They are routes, but they're not numbered. We're not technically in Kanto anymore.Actually, I think we are, but it's sort of...ah, skip it. Let's just find our new catch.
Wow. Man, if I didn't already have the best Fire-type around, I'd really consider this. Looks like this fella's pretty tough to start with.Ah, damn...What's wrong? I ain't gonna be ridin' any hoss s'long as I'm this big!Don't worry about it. We'll get you back to normal soon enough.Thanks, kiddo. Y'ain't so bad after all.
I sure hope you appreciate this.I do. I think we all do. And I promise, once we don't need it anymore, we'll get rid of it and buy you another Brick Break TM. Hey, bossman. How's this better'n Cut?Isn't it obvious? 50% chance to lower defense, 100% accuracy? Worth the decrease in power.Sometimes, yeah. I'd say that this is the third-worst HM.
How is it that trouble always seems to find us? Please, I beg of you! Who knows what might have happened to her?Okay, okay. No need to beg. It's true, he's a big softie. All you had to do was ask.Hey! Sorry, did I say that out loud? Heh heh.Way to go, Jalen. High-five! Oh, wait...Oooooh. Return the burn! You suck.If you're finished flapping your gums, let's go get our new catch.Yeah, sure. Killjoy.
Oh, come on.What's wrong? Howard ain't a bad name.Yeah, but consider what he is. Lord have mercy.Okay, whoever's guiding this stuff has a sick sense of humor.I don't get it.Ever go see really bad movies once in a while? Sure, but...oh fer crissakes.Spread the love.
Three Island, check. Bikers, check. Terrified populace, check. Picking a fight, check. Local hero, check. Heroes, you mean.Well, obviously.
God, I hate Gary so much. So do we all, but what brought this on?Do you know where we are? Berry fo...oh.Right. Berry Forest. Where they're just laying on the ground! And they regenerate! And any we find, we have to sell.
Brrr-r-r. Are you cold?No, just...look into her eyes. That's...that's really c-creepy...You can practically hear her saying, "I want to touch your skiiiiiin..."Okay, s-stop it, I GAH!!Oh, man! XD The look on your face!K-keep your t-tail to yourself!
One daughter, one meteroite - courtesy of Celio - signed, sealed, delivered. Oh, thank you! You've been a big help!Look, before I go, I just have to ask you one thing. Sure, what's on your mind?Why on earth would you name your child 'Lostelle'?! It's like naming her 'Victemma' or 'Molestelle'! My wife...isn't quite right in the head.Look. There's gotta be some way to fix her name. Do yourself and your daughter a favor and find it. I'll try. Thank you.
Was that lecture really necessary, bossman?Hell yeah. That guy was a moron.Call somethin' a duck long enough, it's gonna quack.M-maybe she'll be...safer now?Ha! Looks like you're outvoted, Hank. Now, c'mon. We have another stop to make, and we'd better get serious.
Manic. You know who's inside.You better believe I do. I know he's a bad guy, but...I mean...I think what the tank here is saying is, if we fail, he's Gary's only opponent.We're not going to fail. We're going to go in there and beat Giovanni, and then Gary. There is no other option. I'm...b-behind you...one hundred percent!You know I've got your back no matter what, Manic.Affirmative. You're my C.O., I'd follow you to hell.Well, that's not where we're going. Let's get in there and show them who's boss.
Yeah, I have. And now it's time for this to come to an end. I have news. One of my men was controlled and forced to command his Koffing to use Selfdestruct. Whatever is clouding the minds of the people is even affecting my men.All right. I believe you. I will give you the badge. Simply walk away.That's not going to happen, Giovanni. I made a promise when we lost Trevor to one of your goons. Even if you didn't personally issue the order, you helped to create a world where that kind of thing could happen. Whether directly or indirectly, you are responsible for Trevor's death, and I'm putting an end to it. We've done this dance before, Giovanni. Not often, but we have. You know how this plays out.And you all feel the same?Affirmative. You're goin' down, hombre! No more mister nice guy. F-f-for Blaine! Manic wants you gone. You're already gone. You just don't know it yet.Well then. As I believe the saying goes...come at me, bro.
No more Rattatas and Raticates!
No more Koffings and Weezings!
No more sub-par leadership!
You...you aren't g-going to hurt the p-p-people I love...ever again!
Enough. I concede. Your Nidoking would be more than enough to defeat my beloved Nidoqueen.You know what you have to do. Yes. Hello? This is Giovanni. Engage the Omega Scenario. Code name...Silver.How do we know you're not launching an attack?With what? My one pokemon and a small assortment of useless grunts?He's gotta point.Team Rocket is now past-tense. Now it's more critical than ever that you defeat Gary!One thing, Giovanni. I know you can't help it, that you're compelled by the plot, but...your son will miss you terribly. When you're free, whenever that happens, seek him out. He'll be doing the same. Wha...how...no one knows about my son. Who are you?I think I'll keep that to myself for now.
And with no more fatalities? I'm disappointed.You keep setting 'em up, we'll keep knocking 'em down.You were never a match for Manic. Not before, not now, not ever.I see your pokemon are cheerleaders now. Amusing, and pathetic.Pathetic is tossing in new rules mid-run.Pathetic is trashin' two worlds fer yer damned ego!I don't even know what to say to you.I don't expect you to, Jalen. You and he have something very important in common. Enough of this. Ask your question, Manic.
Who is your best friend? Oh, come now. Really? This is the best you can do?I'm not asking frivolously, Gary. Who is your best friend? That question is a waste of my time, and I won't answer it.Won't, or can't? You are getting on my last nerve, boy.That's what I thought. Are you ready? You're still getting a new rule, you know.I know.
They're right, Gary. You can't win.
I don't know what you've been babbling about, but my patience is completely exhausted.Go ahead, Gary. Give me all you've got. We've handled everything you've thrown at us so far!You can't keep a good man down!That is enough! Here!12. DIMINISHING RETURNS - Every time you pick up or buy an item, you must discard an item.Ffffff...bastard, that's about the only thing that would affect us now. I'll be waiting, Manic. It looks like we get our climactic battle after all...unless the Victory Road or Elite Four put an end to you first!Gary! Before you leave. What do you want?I'm coming for you. I promise.
Manic. Only about two dozen trainers have made it this far out of several hundred.Victory Road sounds like something you'd visit after your enemy's down!I've...I've heard of this place before...Heard about this as a newbie. It's the gauntlet.Way too many trainers finally lose here.I ain't lookin' ta lose today!Damn right. We're getting through here. We're fighting every trainer. We're picking up every item, no matter what we have to get rid of...and we're not losing anybody. How can you possibly know that?It's true because I'm going to make it true. This is our story, and I'm writing it the way I want it.
Why are we even catching pokemon at this point?Remember, a lot of these pokemon were probably people at one point. Any wild pokemon we encounter may once have been human. Ohhh...that explains it.Explains what?M-most of Manic's pokemon were human at one point, but not you or me, because......because he won me, and he was given you. We weren't wild pokemon. Well, you weren't, and I was only wild before the start of all this.Sorry, guys. I wasn't gonna bring it up. Oh, and...Mike? Yeah?Remember how you sacrificed Brick Break for us? I haven't forgotten that. Here, take this.
HELL yeah. Now I can make some real noise!
(Eventually, after an excessive number of annoying boulder puzzles...)
We're out!Man, it feels like forever since I've seen the sky!I was in my element.Yeah, I didn't mind.Are y'all nuts? I felt like a chicken stuffed back in the egg!I think...it might be worse than that. Think about it. Hank's a Grass type. Mike's a Ground type. Aaron's a flying type, and Jalen will be pretty soon. That cave looks like Ground-type terrain. I think their instincts might be intruding. I might be wrong, but we need to hurry and get this over with either way.
Whew. Okay, everybody get healed, and brace yourself. I'm going to go buy Full Heals and Full Restores. Wha...hey!Bossman, what're you doing?!Every held item. Every Repel or variant thereof. Every stat-boosting consumable. Most of our pokeballs. We need our healing items, and we're throwing away everything we don't need.
Where are we going?Seems pretty clear to me.Wanna share?Trainers that have made it this far since all this mess started? Less than ten. And I know that Gary's team is in the high fifties and low sixties.But we're...In the low fifties, yeah. Time to grind like crazy, team; Gary won't be pulling any punches, and we can't either.
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Post by Manic on Mar 14, 2019 3:50:21 GMT
And that's how it goes. Manic knows about Silver, something to finally give Giovanni pause.
As for Gary...one might wonder, why ask that question? What did Manic learn from it?
At any rate, Victory Road is down and we're on to grinding for the Elite Four. Won't be long now! Or will it?
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Post by Manic on Mar 15, 2019 8:55:50 GMT
Whew...okay, team...I think we're about as ready as we're gonna get. From here, there's no turning back. Wasn't planning on it.Are you kidding? Even if the fate of two worlds wasn't at stake, I wouldn't miss this.No way we're ditching out on you now!Well, if you all feel that way...
I assure you, I know the routine. You're the boy who freed Hoenn, yes? Gary has been speaking of you.You're damn right. He's a proven field commander!R-really? You did? You know about all this?Well, Hoenn is a little different, especially in the composition of the E4 and champ, but...yeah, the basic concepts hold. This ain't yer first rodeo, huh? Well, c'mon, let's whoop some butt!
In it to win it.
I am Gary's disdain for other trainers!Come again? M-manic...she's not real!Wait, what? Of course she's real. She's carrying pokeballs. It's a trick! M'hand goes right through her!Of course...he said he was replacing the Elite Four, but he needs people to fight matches in their stead. A ridiculous little boy with his ridiculous little friends. Hardly worth the effort, but I suppose I can be bothered.If she's not real, I'm taking the initiative!Jeez, Hank, no! I hope Gary didn't see you knock out her Dewgong before the battle started. Gun, remember?
You never had a prayer!OW! Okay, now I'm mad!Eugh. Just so long as I don't have to touch it.Sorry, pardner, but this just ain't yer day!
How do you figure? I'm better than you. I'm better than everyone!You're just a personification of one of Gary's mental illnesses. I've beaten him at every turn. What made you think this would be different? NOOOOOOOOoooo...She's gone!Make sense. Without Gary's colossal ego intact, she couldn't exist.Something tells me we're going to get to see just how far gone he is, before we're through.
I am Gary's open hostility!Thought you'd be bigger.I'll tear you to pieces!How? You don't even have a body. You're just a projection.I'll love finding a way that works!Okay, that's enough of the Randy Savage routine. Let's get on with it.
Rock/Ground's a real bad tactical choice.Nice rock move. Too bad you can't hit with it!Whoah, this guy's a handful. Jalen? Don't sweat it, I've got your back.A fighting type with no rock move? What were you thinking?Hey, uh, Hank? Wanna hold off till I give the command? Sorry, bossman! Got a little carried away.
As...as last words go, that was...k-kinda calm.No big surprise. And it's no surprise that Bruno wasn't a big challenge. How d'ya mean?Think about it. Every so often, he'd at least try to be friendly, if only for a moment. That kind of raw aggression always wears itself out.
I am Gary's fatigue...I don't get it. Why is Gary tired?I know I would be.What're you going on about?Fighting, losing, fighting, losing, fighting, losing, I just want it all to end. Please, let me rest.Okay, team. Let's make her...his...wish come true.
Yee-haw, it's like Sabrina all over again!Yeah, but Sabrina wasn't packing poison, and we can't afford to cure it!C'mon, we can handle anything they throw at us.Don't get too overconfident, or you'll scare up a mess of trouble!Ah, crap. Hypnosis. Hmmmm...hey, Ness. Could you hop in on this one with Psychic? S-sure!
Thank you...thank you for letting me sleep. So tired...Thank the lord she's gone. Anybody else feel like we're back in Pokemon Tower?I see what you mean. That one was especially creepy.I feel like...we're not supposed to be seeing this. I don't follow.Never mind. This only lends more credence to my theory. C'mon, we've got one more to go.
I am Gary's fierce competitive streak!You're kidding, right?Jalen, this is no joke! He's mimicking Lance, and with good reason. It's true. If you can call Gary anything, 'driven to win' is it.This aspect of him is going to be very powerful. We need to tread lightly! Less talking, more fighting! You're going to lose, by whatever means necessary! I'm the best there is!Sorry, Gary-Lance. I can't let that happen.
Wasn't that reckless? No water-type attacks. Seriously? HAH!Ow! That thing hits hard.It's f-fine, I've g-got it...was this why you wanted me to k-keep Ice Beam so bad?Well, this is part of it. Also, it's a ridiculously good attack, probably the best Ice attack there is. I'm...starting to feel like we can win this!Can and will.
Not yet, but I'm a stone's throw away. This is going to be epic. I can't wait!I don't get it. He's not fading away like the others.'Course not. Gary needs him now more'n ever.Makes sense. Losing his competitive spirit just isn't an option now!All right, people. This is it, time for the Champion battle. Are you ready? Let's tan his hide!I d-don't think it would m-matter if I said no...I want my life back. Time to wreck his.
TEAM SNAPSHOT! Calm my foot! Ness is scared of his own shadow, but he's a team player all the way. Gotta love that SpAtk stat, and his diverse movepool makes him a valued asset.
Impish? I guess that's one way to look at it. Been with me from the beginning, and it shows. That speed is outlandish! Also, c'mon. Fire, Rock, Fighting, and Flying? He's a super-effective machine!
Hardy indeed, but I have to admit, Hank is probably the weakest link in this team. With his other desired move (Sludge Bomb) not available and a SpAtk that doesn't shine so much, it's largely his Petal Dance and favorable typing that makes him an asset.
Calm like the rock of Gibraltar. It's weird, those stats aren't so amazing, but he keeps pulling out these monstrous hits like they were nothing! You wouldn't think Nidoking would be a good Special Attacker, but he really kinda is.
Sullen to overconfident, but naive? Hmmm, wonder what that could be about. (backstory!) HOLY CRAP that attack stat! Hell, all of those stats! Dragonite is a beast, and Jalen even moreso. I love having Wing Attack and Hyper Beam to take advantage of the attack stat, and the other two are great to round things out.
Hah! Maybe if bashful means 'likes to bash things'. With an attack stat second only to Jalen's, it's the physical defense that actually has me kinda worried. Even so, he's an absolute monster to try to kill, with Rest in the movelist and HP forever.
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Post by Manic on Mar 15, 2019 8:57:06 GMT
Well, there you have it. The Elite Four is down...at least, Gary's version of it.
Which is to say, all of them were Gary, in some form or another.
Which begs the question: if he was trying to be intimidating, why show his fatigue...?
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Post by Firebrand on Mar 15, 2019 13:39:54 GMT
So the E4 is down, and just Gary is left... except I doubt it's going to be that easy. Manic's team is well-positioned to curb-stomp the guy same as usual, but I doubt they're out of the woods yet.
The E4 being projections of Gary adds an interesting wrinkle to all of this, and I'm not sure exactly what it means that Manic has defeated them. Like, has he actually eradicated Gary's hostility, superiority complex, and his fatigue, or have those things just gone back into Gary? Manic mentioning that his competitiveness in the form of Lance not disappearing means Gary still needs it, so I sort of assume the other three are gone? I guess we saw the fatigue because Gary wants to rid himself of that, so he gets Manic to beat it for him, but it doesn't track that his hostility and superiority would be put on the line as well, especially since Manic would have to get through them before getting to fatigue. I don't know, maybe I'm overthinking.
Also, that Rule 7 means Manic and Co. aren't done yet. I thought he'd handle Moltres while on One Island, but it appears not. I guess he's going to have to get through Gary and learn all about the friends in low places before going off and dealing with them. So I figure he's got to take out the birds and Mewtwo, but I'm not sure if that rule also applies to the roaming Suicune, because that will be a hassle to track down. And I figure we'll find out next update if taking out Mewtwo is enough to win, or if he's going to have to take out Mewtwo and then run the E4 gauntlet again.
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Post by Manic on Mar 15, 2019 15:58:12 GMT
I will go ahead and reveal that I did not consider Suicune to be a requirement.
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