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Post by Manic on May 8, 2019 17:15:10 GMT
Update #17: Liberation - vs. Volkner
July 10th
Okay, am I the only one who heard that? You mean the "air quotes"? Nah, I got that too. Wow, he looks really bummed out. C'mon, cheer up! This guy is going to be a wet blanket. Let's get this over with. What's the problem? Same shit, different day. What, you're stuck in a rut? Man, I shouldn't even have this position. I dunno, you seem tough to me. That isn't it. My girlfriend got me this job. And now she's gone all crazy and is insisting I kill you. I don't really want to. Insisting he kill...you don't suppose...? Looks like your Empoleon figured it out. Yeah. Cynthia's my "girlfriend". She got me this gig. Okay, I think everybody heard the air quotes there. If he doesn't like her, why are they together? I believe that the answer may already have presented itself. A girlfriend who'll have you painfully murdered if you break up with her is a girlfriend for life.
Er, I guess. Kinda sucks all the fun out of it. Nah, this is kinda fun, I guess. I mean, usually she puts me up against chumps, but you actually have all of the badges. Look, man. I'm gonna have to be straight with you here: I'm in this to put an end to Cynthia. Wait, what? Seriously? That's a thing? Hell yeah. So, I'd appreciate it if you could keep quiet ab- Yeah! Hell yeah! Finally some freedom! Damn, I wish I could just give you the badge.
So, kick my ass already! Weird, that's what someone else was just saying...
Formidable. She may have gotten him his position, but I doubt he needed the help. Fuckin' Luxrays, man. Always have to be dicks about life. Jeez, man. Gimme a run for my money, why don'tcha? Now, that's what I'm talking about!
I finally feel like I'm a trainer again, not just Cynthia's boy toy! That's what it's supposed to feel like. We've gotta get you un-whipped. I can honestly say that I gave it my all, too. Yeah, I can vouch for that...ow. Oh, hey, right. Flint told me to give this note to you if I won. Let's see here...sorry you lost...kid's a prodigy...my place later...brews, music? Man, Flint always was a bro. Sounds like a good time! Sounds more like a da- And we're off! Go take it easy for a bit. I need to move on. Sure, sure. Go do your thing. Just watch it, Cynthia's even crazier than before. Wonder what I should wear...
Heh, yeah, I kinda did. Looks like you're still tougher than me! A little. A little?! Let it go, Virgil. I think the boast is more of an affectation than a sincere assessment of his abilities. Oh, I think more than a little. A little. A hair! A miniscule little amount! Sure, if you say so. Oh, a wise guy, huh?! Are we really going to do this again? How many times do we have to put this kid down?
Oh. Well, that's a relief. Fascinating... Hmmm? What's on your mind? The boy's mind seems to be more at peace than I can ever recall before. Where he was fiercely competitive, he is now merely friendly. So, I guess this is it, then? As if! How're you going to become Champion without me there? Er, Spaz? I hate to break this to you... Yeah, yeah, I know. I need the badge. So I'll go get it! You also need the HM, and I've seen no sign of it. I've been wondering about that too, but I'll figure it out later. Seeya!
Huh? Oh, hey, the last HM! You need this more than I do. You're not going to challenge the league? I'm only here on vacation. Besides, well...uh... Hmmm? Don't take this the wrong way, but...Sinnoh is bullshit. Indubitably. Man, is it ever! I didn't want to say anything. Anyone could sense that. With a capital "B"! Kinda fun, though. Yeah, I can't argue with that. C'mon, guys. We're going to need some help.
The last gift I can give to you, my sweet. Not the last one, sugar. Just the last one for now. Are you suggesting...? Bein' royalty might just suit Roxy real fine. It would be my honor.
Well, I guess that's one way to keep the newbies out. Clever, using geography as a means to weed out unworthy challengers. I can't help but wonder how they get supplies in and out, though. Pretty sure I can answer that! Oh yeah, I guess that works. Barring the occasional lightning storm - which can easily be accounted for - this place is extremely defensible. So, yeah. Everybody ready for Victory Road? Are you? Sure. Um, you think you could...help me? Sure, but why do you need helping? My, uh. My legs. It's all right. Lean on me, I'll help you walk. Roxanne, could you lend a hand? Sure thing. C'mere, baby. Roxy's gotcha. *sigh* Thanks, you two.
Hey, it's our catch for Victory Road! I can't imagine how it'd improve the team we already have. Hey, it's our first victim on Victory Road! Bingo.
(And then we got through Victory Road. Surprisingly easily!)
Well, here we are. Once we get up that waterfall, anyway. It's time to bring this woman and her cohorts to justice. This is what we've been training for! Y'all need my help gettin' back and forth, you just holler, y'hear? We will, Roxy. I have no doubt of that. Manic, when we get there, we must heal and then return to Victory Road. Diell, time is of the essence. Why would we spend even more of it in that damnable maze? Because in our current state, we would get halfway through the Elite Four, and then be crushed. If not by Lucien, then by Cynthia herself. Aw, c'mon. Have a little confidence in us! Her lowest-level pokemon is five levels higher than Manic's highest-level. ...oh. Okay then. We heal, and then we train. We haven't come this far to lose now.
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Post by Manic on May 8, 2019 17:16:52 GMT
It's a small update, I realize, but think of it as a windup.
We get a Johto cameo, Volkner goes down, and we make it through Victory Road!
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Post by Manic on May 9, 2019 9:07:55 GMT
Update #18: Down With the Ship - vs. Elite Four (Pt. 1)
July 13th
Wouldn't...hnnnnn...dream of it... Wow, you look terrible! Y-you're no p-prize yourself. Ha-ha. No, really, you look like death warmed over! Just a little warmed! If this is...hnnnn...your way of cheering me...you have a lo*coughHACKcough*lot to learn about cheering. No no! Nothing like that! I mean, I'll cheer you and everything, but I got this awesome idea! Give me strength... Oh, come on. He's been okay recently! Maybe it'll be something really good!
That's...really not a good idea... Aw, c'mon! It'll be fun! What's the matter, you a Torchic? Bawk bawk bawk! Want me to throw him off the waterfall? ... ... Well? Don't...hnnnn...rush me, I'm thinking. I have a better idea. Indulge him. Why the hell would we do that? Oh, I g-g-ggghhk...get it. Sure, Spaz. Ready? I was born ready! Actually, I was born Barry, but whatever!
Holy...!! Now, this will be truly entertaining. Hold still, I will endeavor to make your end swift and painless. I...don't suppose we can just call it off? Sorry...hnnnn...Spaz. Against league rules.
(And then, the ROFLstomp. Oh, so much of the ROFLstomp. It felt so very good.)
Thank goodness. Hey, I...wait. What did you just say? Sinnoh will need a s-s-*cough* strong champion when I'm gone. I nominate you. When you're...oh. How, um...how long do you have...? About f-five days. Manic, I...I promise. I'll take care of things. You don't have to worry about Sinnoh at all! I'll be a good champion, and I'll make everyone happy, you'll see! I...know you will. F-for now, I have to keep going...
Get out of my way or I'll have...hnnnnn...Lucille chuck you through the window. And I'll do it, too! R-right! Fully qualified! Right this way, sir!
H-hey...everybody? What's up? Just want you all to know...you're the *coughHACK* the best damn team in the world. Compared to you guys, Cynthia...hnnnn...sucks. None of us would have made it this far without your guidance. I insist that you take some of the credit. Agreed. Without you, Michael and I would still be stuck as eggs. Yeah, I'd still be an Electabuzz. And I'd still be a Scyther, sitting at home, thinking how useless I was. You're right...we got here together, we'll...hnnnnn...win together.
G-good to meet...hnnnn...you, too. The boy has a charming level of decorum. I approve. Seems like a phony to me. Everyone who isn't a jackass seems like a phony to you. Hey, at least you know I've got nothing to hide. Wow, you look really, um...you had a hard journey, huh? It's okay. You can be...hnnnnnn...honest. I'm dying. Soon. Oh, jeez. You really DO have that degenewhatsis Nuzlocke. I really do. Say...what's with all the foliage?
Hasn't been...hnnnnn...my experience. How do you mean? Lucille's beautiful...but really nice, too. Oh! Um...I...that is, you're nice too...*blush* Yeah, I can see you leaning on her. What's up with that? Can't really walk on my own anymore... Oh, wow. I, uh...okay, well... Look, don't treat me *COUGHchoke* d-differently, okay? I'm a challenger just like the others.
You do know I'm forbidden from holding back, right? You b-better not! I'm no joke...Virgil, start us off! You take it easy, boss. I got this.
Fast, but not fast enough! It's hardly even fair! Hmph. Little bastard has some teeth. Stay down!
I am glad that my coverage could be of some use. And BAM! Guess who's outta ammo, bitch!
H-hey...none of that. Huh? Bug types...are at a nasty disadvantage. Lucille is...hnnnn...a major exception. It's true! Besides, Manic had an entire journey to switch up his team. You were stuck here! I guess it's true. Thanks, Lucille. Wait...you can understand her? Yeah, I have a rapport with bug types. Anyway, you get going and be careful, okay? I've been stuck below Bertha for a while, and you're about to find out why.
If it isn't the boy who caused Cynthia so much pain. Wha...? Ever since meeting you, she's been quite mad, I assure you. Her pain? What abou-coughHACKcough, wheeeeeeeze about...my pain? So you're sick. We're all dying, Manic. Every last one of us. Some are just closer than others. I d-don't mean that. What about my friends...she had killed? What about the lack of mercy? I don't know what you're talking about. Cynthia is a perfect lady. Or at least, she was. I've learned d-differently... You needn't waste your breath, Manic. This woman is clearly unwilling to listen.
N-nah...just gotta speak the right language. Permit me. Um, I'm not weak to anything she does... Nor are you strong to anything she does. We must end this quickly. If Nero wants in...he's in. Tag me in if you need me!
In truth, I feel that I would most benefit from Diell's assistance. You are a true leader, Nero. I will follow you to hell and back. Good, because I fear that is precisely what I must ask of you.
...although not today. Did you just sweep Bertha, almost alone?! D-damn right he did... Yeah, yeah. Good job. Fear not, my friend. You will have your day in the sun. Hey! I don't have friends, and I don't need friends. This is a job, and nothing more. Not a single syllable of that was true.
What, that's it? That's it. I know a good fighter when I see one. That kind of chutzpah makes me think you might just not be the monster Cynthia thinks. What paw? Chutzpah*coughwheeeeeeeze*. Means c-courage. Or, as a dear friend once put it...you have great big balls. Heh...doesn't sound the same...but yeah. C'mon. Now, give me your shoulder. Up we go!
You c-counted to three? Come on, man. We're having a moment!
That was...m-mostly you. What do you mean? He read the note in...hnnnnnn...front of me. So? What's wrong with that? Is he serious? I can't tell! That man doesn't have a closet big enough for a single shirt. Look, F-Flint. I'm not stupid. I'm happy for you, really. You...you figured it out, huh? Look, just don't tell Cynthia, okay? She'd boot me out of the league! Don't worry, man. Omnia vincit amor. Huh? Love conquers all.
This will be a true honor. L-likewise. Do I even have to ask? Nope.
Really entirely too easy. You're telling me!
Okay, he's sending out his Magmortar. Hey, boss. These guys are no joke. They're the special attack equivalent of an Electivire. R-right. Who do I...hnnnnn...send? Let's start with the obvious wrong choices. Lucille and I are out. Yeah...sorry about that, Manic. Don't think Dig or Rock Slide will cut it here. R-right. That leaves Michael...hnnnnn...Nero, and Diell. For obvious reasons, I am a bad choice. I could Water Pulse him and hope? No. A true leader never asks others to do what he would not do himself. I will wash that thing away! Okay, if you're sure... Oh, Manic. That was a mistake. How? Magmortar? Use Thunderbolt. Wait...what?!
EEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAGHHHH!!!!! It's a critical hit! Man, this is why I love my Magmortar! He always pulls out the crits when I need them most. ...no...Arceus, no... Send out your next pokemon, challenger! ... ... ... Manic?
Nero?
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Post by Manic on May 9, 2019 9:09:36 GMT
Welp! Some interesting new developments...
Manic's illness is audibly progressing. He's starting to have trouble breathing, now that he's down to less than a week...
Also, it looks like Nero might be in serious trouble. Remember, if the starter faints, the run fails!
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Post by raibo on May 10, 2019 22:13:35 GMT
It feels strange, being able to keep up with the posts in real time this time (I first found your work on the old forum near the end of the next run).
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Post by Manic on May 11, 2019 6:34:22 GMT
Update #19: Stalwart - vs. Elite Four (pt. 2)
July 13th
Where's my man?! What?! Roxanne?! Wait, didn't we leave her in the box? I ain't stayin' in no damn box when my man needs me! Where's my MAN, Manic?! Roxy, I...ow! My face! Hey! Leave him alone, he's sick! He's gonna be a hell of a lot sicker when I'm done with him! WHERE THE HELL'S MY DAMN MAN?! I believe that she means to end him! Restrain her! Y'all my friends arright, but I'ma smack the taste out your mouth if you come anywhere near me! Roxy... That's Roxanne to you, boy! Now, I'm gonna ask you one more time before I Rock Smash your face into next Sunday! Where. The Hell. Is My. Man?! I'm sorry...I didn't know it had...hnnnnnn...Thunderbolt... Then y'all best get ready, 'cause here comes Roxy!
My turn.
He's...he's still...! How is that even possible?! Hey, Flint! I lit this guy up like the fourth of July, man! I don't get it! Merciful heavens, woman...if this is what he feels like at all times...release him...! Oh, baby! Roxy's so glad you're- Not right now, my dear. This Magmortar makes a convincing argument, but I have a rebuttal. Well shit, baby! Do your thang! Seventy percent of the world's surface is covered in water, did you know that? Uh oh. The human body is 60% water! Water can dissolve more substances than sulfuric acid! You think that a little zap can defeat me?!
HERE! HAVE AN OCEAN! Damn, baby! Never before have I sensed such...grandiosity! Manic. If he's out of control... Then we're...hnnnnn...fucked. When I see him cut loose like that...I think he could drown the world. Manic...if you would be so kind...a spot of healing...would do wonders. Uh...challenger? Your team isn't quite legal... Yeah, yeah, I'm goin'! Don't get all bent outta shape. Also, Manic... Y-yeah? Roxy wasn't jokin', baby. You let anything happen to my man, ain't no five days in front'a you. Michael...hnnnnn...would you... Right, yeah, sure! Anything to cut the tension. Jeez.
And that's the end of that.
Lesson...hnnnnn...learned. Don't underestimate me. If that soggy bitch ever lays her hands on you again...! I BEG your pardon?! Oh, um...right...sorry. Hmmm. It seems that if Nero goes, Manic will go with him. She's a Bibarel, Diell. She's strong, but how bad can it be? Perhaps you'd like to go pick the door up and put it back on its hinges? Yeah, yeah. She's a psycho. C'mon, let's get moving.
Flint? You...hnnnnn...okay? I've...I...wow. I don't even...I'm Flint and what is this? Uh...right. We'll pay for the door repair... Nobody's beaten me in years, Manic. YEARS. I'll pay for the stupid door, you just go take down that bitch! You heard...hnnnnnn...the man. I will help Manic from here forward, Lucille. Your aid will be required ahead. *gulp* R-right...
Figures he'd be an egghead. Silence your vulgar Cousin Itt wannabe. You caught that? I knew it before he said it. Similarly, I know your plans before you can enact them. That's- impossible, I control my own destiny. Manic, be cautious, this man is a powerful psychic in his own right. Yes, Diell, I am. How do we fight someone- who can predict our every move? You do not, my dear.
Whether or not this is true, I am Cynthia's second-in-command. How does- that work? Simple. I cloud the minds of the other gym leaders until they bend to her will, and make them think it was their idea. Heh heh. Hey, team. Remember Lake Valor? Most of us recall it quite well. Why? Remember...hnnnnn...what I told that commander guy? Let's see here...AUGH! Oh, that's vile! You think that's vile...here, keep reading... Hrrrk...g-good lord, you're revolting...I would never...! I bet Flint could prove otherwise...and so could his Magmortar... Perverse little...ggggh...I think I'm going to be sick...!
This will be...why do you keep thinking of those vile images?! Because you keep reading...hnnnnn...my mind. I get it! HA! I love it! Am I up first? You know...hnnnn...you are. Hang on, conjuring images of Miltank/Pichu pairings... *BLAAAARGH*
GAH! Kill it kill it kill it! It's dead, you big baby. (Not before it used Reflect, though.)
Hey, I've been meaning to ask. Why AM I wearing this thing? Secret...hnnnn...weapon. Oh? Let's just have a look... Crasher Wake in bondage gear! AUGH!
Wait...Brick Break? With all the other stuff I have? Yep...g-gotta set up. I believe that was for my benefit. Brrrr...let's see what you have in YOUR mind instead. A fellow psychic would never- Hippowdon lapdance. OH COME ON!
A word to the wise, Lucien. When reading others' minds, be careful that you filter out surface thoughts. Gah...I'm going to be in therapy for years after this fight! At least I still have my Gallade. Aw, it's kind of cute! Is this what you wanted, Manic? Yeah...hnnnnn...Gallades are pretty badass. Truly, they are. Same typing as Diell. Weak to Ghost and...
...Flying. I knew you were gonna say that. Hee! You kept Wing Attack from when she was a Scyther?! Great typing...bonus from Technician...if you don't...hnnnnnn...know the future...you plan.
And she makes me look like a rank amateur. She's also why we're here. In hopes of saving Manic's life. For the biggest battle of all! For the continued fulfillment of our alliance. Because no one escapes justice. No one. Manic was there for me when I needed him. Now it's my turn! Check me out, I'm a fucking Electivire!
I...I can't... After we've come all this way, surely you haven't lost your nerve? No, I mean I c-can't... M-Manic? I can't feel my legs.
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Post by Manic on May 11, 2019 6:49:23 GMT
Nero survives a critical Thunderbolt from a Magmortar! ...barely!
As for pokemon being unable to get out of the box on her own, you think Roxanne's gonna let rules stop her?
When reading an opponent's mind, be careful what you see!
And Manic's condition is getting worse...
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Post by crimsondoom on May 11, 2019 8:09:35 GMT
I don't think this worked as intended.
Also, "Check me out, I'm a fucking Electivire!" has got to be one of the best lines you've ever penned in context.
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Post by Manic on May 12, 2019 12:21:12 GMT
Update #20: Crescendo - vs. Cynthia
July 14th - 4 Days Remain
All right...hnnnnn...team, it's time. We cannot simply go charging in, or Cynthia will decimate us. We need to have a plan. Well, MY plan is to ruin her whole day! I'm not letting that witch near you, Manic! All I ask is the opportunity to face her in combat. And you w*HACKcoughCOUGHwheeeeeeeze*...will. Here's the first part of the plan...
I beg your pardon...Virgil is your plan? Virgil is a large part of it, yes. I believe that this is wise. Uh, boss? Why am I- It's t-time. Let's head inside. Um... It's okay. I'll carry you. This is humiliating...
Oh, now that's just fucked up. Laugh, clown, laugh. Request permission to punch her teeth down her throat. I don't think my pokemon will allow that. Tread lightly, Manic. I sense confidence and fear in equal portions. Wait, why can she understand Icarus? First of all, dear boy, I would understand you and the Lucario even if it weren't for my condition. I'm familiar with the lines. Apart from that...this is the curse and blessing of all of the afflicted. To understand Pokemon...the better to suffer for their loss. Learn something new every...hnnnnn...day. Yes, speaking of learning...
Is that*cough* all this is to you? Of course. Power is all that truly matters. If you have it, you can crush others. If you don't, you are crushed. Eat or be eaten. That is the way of the world. It always has been, it always will be. Even now, you kneel before me. No. NNNNGH... What...what in the name of Arceus are you doing, Manic?! I...rrrrgh...d-don't care how sick...I am... You said you couldn't feel your legs! I can confirm this: he has no feeling in either extremity. I do not understand how this is even possible! Astounding... I will never...kneel...before...the likes...of you! He's...he's on his feet! He's leaning against the wall, sure, but he's s-standing!
Just explain one thing to me, Cynthia. And what can I teach you? Franklin says...this was done to me. Someone GAVE me this disease. The only person I know who wants me dead is you. You don't say. I do say. So my question is: why? Why would you do this to me? Even if I had the power to inflict Nuzlocke upon someone, I wouldn't. Think of it: why would I give you a disease that would cause you to seek me out? But if it wasn't you, then...who? I neither know nor care. I do have cause to thank you, though:
I was blind to the world before, but now I have learned the most important lesson of all. The malice radiating from her...is overwhelming! You don't have to be psychic to notice that! And what is that, Cynthia? What have you learned? Take what you can, WHEN you can.
Then you...have learned...nothing. Let's see which prevails, Manic: your fantasy or my reality! Face an opponent who's defeated all weakness!
You stay the hell away from him! Simply adorable. One of your pokemon has fallen for you, Manic. I was just sayin'...
OW! You...you shut your mouth! After I lost my father, nobody ever thought I could do anything! Lucille... My mother was too busy trying to keep us all in line to ever notice how hard I was trying. I was nobody in my swarm! I was a shadow! I see.
When Manic came along, he accepted me! He encouraged me! When he woke up and met me, he took me in without a moment's hesitation! Of course he did. You're a Scizor. Very powerful. Oh, Tommy...I'm sorry. Rest in peace. I love him like he was my own father. For all practical purposes, he might as well be. And if you ever lay a finger on him or threaten him again....
...I will END you! Rosie, no... Touching. If I'd had that kind of support, I might have turned out weak and dependent like you. Instead, there's someone I'd like you to meet. Milly, show this sentimental insect what you can do. Lucille...come back. You've had...hnnnnnn...enough for now. I'm very proud of you. VERY proud. I'm sorry. I just couldn't stand there and listen to- Shhh, it's okay. Let someone else have a turn. Virgil, it's your turn. How confident are you, Manic? Can you kill in one hit? If not, I assure you, Milly's Mirror Coat will make short work of your primate friend there. Heh. Heh heh heh. Virgil. Show her...hnnnnn...why I kept one of your original moves.
In your face, ya dumb whore. Mirror Coat only works on special moves! And Thunderpunch does*HACKcoughHACK* does the job just fine. Milly, no...after all of our hard work, after all the contenders...I'll make you suffer for this, you little bastard! Tony, wreck this monster!
Hey, jerkass! If I looked like that, I'd be mad too, but don't take it out on my buddy! ARRRGH! I'm not your damn 'buddy', this is just a job! Hah! Dissent in the ranks? Guys...hnnnnnn...not now... That is enough. Virgil, whether or not Michael is your friend, you are Michael's friend. This does not involve any obligation on your behalf, so focus on the task at hand. Michael, you are distracting Virgil at a key moment and offering our opponent a psychological advantage. Behave yourself. Mmmmf...well, fine. Thanks, big guy. Now, where was I? Letting your pokemon give the orders? Are you that weak? Nero is a leader, Cynthia. Even...hnnnn...when I'm gone, he's destined for great things.
Fuckin' restores! K-keep the pressure on, Virgil! As long as you can do more than half its health in damage... ...then down it goes! Hah! Suck on that! No remorse at all, 'Michael'? No sense of loss for your parent? THAT was my father? Of course! You don't think you fell from the sky, do you? Now, Luke, show these imbeciles what they're dealing with. Mine. Yeah, but Diell- MINE. You got it...
You. 'Luke'. You shame the Lucario line by siding with this monster. Lay down with Granbulls, wake up with fleas. You must also be brought to justice! Justice is an excuse used by the weak to justify revenge. Wrong, lady. Justice is about protecting the innocent from harm at the hands of those who would exploit and abuse them. You've had this...hnnnnnn...coming for a while now, Cynthia. We, the pokemon under Manic, find you guilty of two counts of murder. The Dave and Rex both died to feed your petty hubris.
Rest in peace, my comrades. Luke...this can't be happening...! I've fought so hard, trained so much... Do you remember what I said to you at Valor Lakefront? What are you talking about? I said...hnnnnn...that you've stopped living, Cynthia. I said that you're a coward, and I've been proven right time and again. He's right, you know. You really are craven. Shut up! The fear in you has long since overwhelmed the confidence. The real irony is this: if you had come out of your ivory tower to fight us, you could have ended us at any time. SHUT UP! You were just too scared to lose! So while you pranced about avoiding fights, we got tougher and tougher! Face it. We didn't engineer your defeat. You did. SHUT UP!!! Gary, murder every last one of them!!! I've been...hnnnn...waiting for this. Virgil, you're up.
The fuck is that? That's...hnnnnn...a Garchomp. What?! Manic, have you taken leave of your senses?! Those things are part-Ground! Not only that, they're banned. Isn't that right? Who banned them, hmmm?! The League, is that what you think?! I'm the Champion among champions! I make the rules! I AM THE LEAGUE! Hah! You clever sonofabitch. You knew she had one of these! 'Course I did. Makes sense. ...that a coward would ban a pokemon from 'ubers' so that she would be the only person to have one.
Banned for bein' too strong, huh? Lady, you never met me! You think that thing's strong?! I'm faster than lightning and ten times as powerful! Look at me! You look at me and you shit yourself in fear! I'm Virgil!
SLAKING KONG AIN'T GOT NOTHIN' ON ME!! AAAAGH!! That's...not quite the reaction, hnnnnnn...I was expecting. Manic, take a closer look. She's crumpling like a puppet with cut strings!
You...are the stronger fighter. I concede this. It's...t-true. And you're going to jail for your crimes. Heh. No. No, I am not. You see, your pokemon are indeed powerful...
Without me...Sinnoh will be plunged into chaos...but I will not go to jail. What makes you think so? Look more closely at her face. Do you see how the color is draining from it? Manic, she's...she's dying... B-but that makes no sense! Doesn't it? My friends...my partners...are gone. They've died... She speaks the truth. Whatever you have to say to her, do it quickly. Of course. She's also a Nuzlocke sufferer, and we defeated her last pokemon. You mean she's whiting out.
C-come here... Jeez, the kid's dragging himself over to her! What...what are you going to do to me? Even you...deserve to be held...in your final moments. A man is measured not by the suffering he causes, but by the suffering he soothes. Now more than ever, I am proud to call you my trainer. Cynthia. Y-yes? I forgive you. *snf* Thank you...I can only hope Arceus...will be...so...kind... She's...gone, Manic. It's time.
I wish I could...hnnnnn...celebrate. She was brought to justice, after all. Justice must be tempered with mercy, my friend. In himself, Manic found both for her. You have much to be proud of. And a lot more to do! Y-yeah...that was rough, though... Jeez, man. You're sure gettin' your Electirizer's worth. Heh, yeah...th-thanks for the help. It's weird. You seem lighter somehow. Probably just getting used to my...hnnnnnn...weight. That sounded worse than before. We must hurry. T-true. But before resuming the search...
...I just need to rest a little...
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Post by Manic on May 12, 2019 12:35:03 GMT
And there you have it. Cynthia suffers the same fate she would have planned for Manic.
And yet, being champion isn't TRULY the end, despite what that last screen suggests.
You haven't forgotten rule #7, have you?
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Post by Firebrand on May 12, 2019 16:29:40 GMT
That was a pretty great league challenge, although most of the elites were torn through like wet paper since the team had been griding so hard. Nero coming back from the brink was a pretty amazing moment all the same, and probably one of the highlights of the run. I'll admit that I'm surprised that the league wasn't... actually all that evil. I was expecting something like Glacia and Drake in Derpy, but in hindsight I guess the elites not being all that bad makes sense. They're just the strongest trainers Cynthia could find, and she put them in the way of everyone to be beef gates. Well, and then Lucien, but he wasn't exactly all that threatening when the team actually made it to him.
We haven't really gone into what happens when a Nuzlocked person whites out, but it looks like the die with the team too? I guess Manic has a degree of plot armor insulating him from that (in that I doubt we'd see a failed run as a write-up, or maybe we will someday? Idk, it could either be a really interesting exploration of the concept, or it could just wind up being a narrative wet fart).
Anyway, Manic's not doing too hot, and with only four days left to kick in the teeth of the gods, he's got his work cut out for him. But probably more pressingly, he's had a hard enough time walking in a straight line through four rooms, so it's going to be rough getting through the mountains he'll need to climb for Dialga/Palkia/Heatran.
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Post by Manic on May 12, 2019 20:53:59 GMT
We haven't really gone into what happens when a Nuzlocked person whites out, but it looks like the die with the team too? I guess Manic has a degree of plot armor insulating him from that (in that I doubt we'd see a failed run as a write-up, or maybe we will someday? Idk, it could either be a really interesting exploration of the concept, or it could just wind up being a narrative wet fart). What makes you think Manic has plot armor insulating him from that? He's never lost an entire team before.
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Post by Firebrand on May 12, 2019 23:06:57 GMT
What makes you think Manic has plot armor insulating him from that? He's never lost an entire team before. Right, he hasn't, and my point was that a run where he loses a whole team and subsequently fails (since to lose a whole team means to lose a starter, so run over) kind of flies in the face of a nuzlocke write up, which tend to be about completed runs. So the format itself spoils the fact that the protagonist didn't white out.
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Post by Manic on May 13, 2019 2:43:23 GMT
Firebrand Which is sort of like saying that you can prove that Harry Potter doesn't die in any of his movies, because the next one exists. While that may technically be true, the movies are still entertaining in their own right, and there are certainly a lot of things that can happen that don't rely on the death of the protagonist.
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Post by Manic on May 13, 2019 7:29:34 GMT
Update #21: The Final Frontier
July 16th - 3 DAYS REMAIN
Ugh, I feel like hell...wait...I'm home? Manic? Sweetie, are you awake? Oh, thank goodness... Uh, yeah, I'll...hnnnnnn...be right down, Mom. Easy, now. I've got you. Oh, h-hey there...how long have you been- The entire duration of your unconsciousness. Not a one of us has left your side. Not even Virgil, who could have easily used the time in other ways. Isn't that right? Ah, shove an ice cube in it. C'mon, let's get downstairs.
He said something about wanting to meet you in the Battle Frontier. I don't think you should go, honey. Why not? I'd like to share what time you have left. Mom, about that. Someone very intelligent thinks there might be a loophole. Sweetie, all the doctors have said- I know, I know what they've...hnnnnnn...said. But if there's even a chance... I...I understand. Keep working at it. I love you. Love you too...hnnnnn...Mom. For now, to Professor Rowan's.
Actually, I c-came to ask you about the remaining legendaries. Precious little time remains to us, Manic. We must hurry if we are to have a chance! As it so happens, I managed to call in a favor. An expert will be joining us. Precious little time...how long was I out? It's, uh, well... Quit dancing around it. It's Monday the 16th. You've got me for three more days if you count Wednesday. I slept for an entire day?! *COUGHCOUGH*wheeeeeeeeze*HACKCOUGH* Sweet Arceus, you sound terrib-oh, wait, there he is!
W-wait...so my reward for my work...is more work? Something like that, sure! See you at Pal Park, Hieronymus! What? No, not at all! He's a bit odd, but he is very intelligent, I promise you. Here is your real reward:
What's it...hnnnnnn...do? You can use it to find very rare pokemon. These devices are highly rare and very valuable! Listen...I think you should give this to Spaz. You must be kidding. N-not at all. He's changed a lot...when I go...he's next in line for Champion. Very well, I'll make the arrangements. His trepidation is palpable. Hnnnnnnn...hey, if I didn't know the current Spaz... ...then you would still think that that he's a waste of space. Right. Now, let's head out to Pal Park. We've gotta catch up that Oak guy and see what he knows! Uh...actually... Michael, if you will recall, we were unable to actually enter Pal Park during our last visit. Right. Which means... An invigorating swim, yes.
(One schlep later...)
So, since I'm a bit busy here at the moment, I'd appreciate if you would come and see me there. All the way back there? Why not...hnnnnn...just talk to me here? Merciful Arceus, you really are dying. All of my research material is in my house there. I've got to run, I'll meet you there! Eggheads, man. They're always like this. I bet he's the kinda guy that sends trainers to do errands for him. So, NOW we can fly, right? N-now we can fly, yeah...hgggggk! Manic?! Nothing to worry about. Just an interesting...hnnnnn...new noise I make, turns out.
Professor...Oak, right? Yes indeed, that's me. What can I do for you? In less than 72 hours, I'm gonna be a corpse. Oh, uh...yes, well. I hate to be rude...hnnnnnn...but can we skip to the meat of this conversation? Given the circumstances, fair enough.
Now that's what I'm talking about. Intriguing. Franklin did tell us that they would find their way here. Maybe he knows more. Should we go check? He definitely does know more, but I suspect that prying the information from him would be impossible. When he said that there was much he was not telling Manic for Manic's own benefit, he was being sincere. Easy, guys. Hey, Professor...where in Sinnoh? All over the place! They seem to be running around randomly. Very strange, they never acted like this back in Kanto. I...think I might know why. Really?! Please, tell me! I will after I deal with the issue. C'mon, team...
So, why are we back at Solaceon Town? I think I get it. This place is a central thoroughfare. If they run around and we run around, we might miss them. Correct. But if they meander aimlessly and we stand in one place... ...then they'll eventually come to us! Nice! Th-there's one...hnnnnn...now! Virgil, get it quick!
Signed, sealed, delivered. We got six left now, right? Yeah, heh... Wait a damn minute. Huh? You taught me Rock Slide before we even hit the E4. I wondered why you'd teach a guy like me a move like that. How long have you been planning this? Still waters run deep, friend. I suspect that he has been planning this since the moment he caught you. Untrue, but he did deduce the usefulness of the tactic shortly thereafter. Before Volkner, but after meeting you. Who cares? It...hnnnn...works. And good thing too, here comes another and it looks pissed! Get under the bridge!
Why are we hiding under here? Don't we want it to find us? If it has to fly under here to get us... ...then its wings won't give it much of an advantage. Very nice. Jeez, kid. You're making this too easy!
Y'know, not that I'm complaining. Good, 'cause this is the...hnnnnnn*cough*...easy part. Hmmm. The third one, this 'Zapdos', seems to have learned from its allies' mistakes. That's not good. What do we do now? Continue with business. We visit Cynthia's grandmother in Celestic. She deserves to know... I'll get us there if you tell her. That's a job I don't want. Deal.
Fffff...we're out in the open, guys! And here comes trouble! What's the big deal? I'll ace this one just like the others. Be careful! Fire and Ice gave Moltres and Articuno a double weakness to Rock Slide, but Zapdos only has a normal one! Betcha tonight's berries I can still one-shot it. You're on.
(image deleted due to FCC regulations)
Mmmm-mmm. Those're gonna be some good berries. Very...hnnnnnnn*hackCOUGH*...nice. C'mon...let's get this over with. Four left. Easy-peasy.
Ma'am...I have some bad news. Oh, I know, dear. I can see it in your eyes. I'm sorry...it had to happen. I always knew it would, someday. You have the right idea, kiddo. You can't stop living, even if you're dying. Actually, about that...hnnnnnnn...I'm looking for Heatran, Cresselia, Dialga, and Palkia. Do you know where any of them are? Sort of. Heatran lives in Stark Mountain. Cresselia lives in an island off of Canalave. Such a fool I am. We should have thought of this ages ago; this woman is a treasure trove of information! As for the other two?
Then we need these orbs... You do. And you, above all others, are qualified to use them. Above all others? When I first met you, I knew that there was an otherworldly quality about you. These old eyes may not see too well, but they notice better than most. Then you really are from another world? I don't...hnnnnn...think so. I remember my childhood and everything. Perhaps we should have this conversation while we travel. You're right, Diell. Ma'am, where are the orbs? Deep within Mt. Coronet, but I urge you, take care of your other business first. Dialga and Palkia are obscenely powerful. S-so noted. Thank you. Don't give up hope. There is always a way.
How oddly comfortable. Well, duh. Why would you say that? Nero, you may be an Empoleon, but you're still a penguin. Some things just come naturally. Hmmm. I suppose you're right.
BOO. GAH! Hi! Wow, you scared me! You've been...hnnnn...scaring me for years, I figure it's fair. Ha ha, very funny. Check it out! The battle frontier! I wanted you to see it at least once before, y'know. Heh, yeah. I know. I appreciate it. Yeah, but then these creepers got all up in mah bidness! Creepers? Yeah! I mean, I try to be tolerant and everything, but...
WHAT. F: What?! No way! Man, that is so wrong! V: No pedo. I'm telling you, these guys think I'm hot! I mean, I don't blame them, but ewwwww! F: Excuse me? 'Ewww'? There's nothing wrong with it! V: Yeah, man. We're just two guys out on vacation. F: C'mon, honey. This is the one place we don't have to try to hide it. V: Yeah, but if word gets back...
...then nothing will...hnnnnn...happen. Cynthia's out of the picture. F: Then the champ? You're talking to him. F: Hot damn! V: Ugh, you and the fire puns. F: C'mon, you know you like it. Hey, how about a quick match? C'mon, you've gotta! Let's play smear the queer! F: Little bastard... Spaz. If I ever hear you talking about the love...hnnnnnn...between two people again, dying or not, I'll smack you clear to Unova. V: Well, I'll be damned. But it's gross! You don't have to like it. You don't have to do it. You just have to not be a jerk about it. Fine, fine. Get ready.
Simple. You hook*coughHACKcough*hooked up with a flaming partner. Shocking, huh? F: Wow. That's...wow. V: Okay, you've gotta admit, he got you there. F: Whose side are you on? V: Well, duh. Yours. C'mon, let's do this. F: Uh, Manic. Are you really going to use your Lucario? You remember what happened last time I found a weakness. D-don't you worry about Icarus. Better worry about yourselves. V: I don't like the sound of that. What's he doing? F: Er, I dunno. He didn't bring his Lucario in during our match. V: But now he's confident enough to bring it in despite the fire weakness... C'mon, guys! Manic has less than three days to live! Let's get on with it!
F: Oh... V: Shit. I love that Stantler-in-the-headlights look.
Heh heh... V: You gotta warn me about stuff like this! F: I told you, I didn't know! He's sweeping everything we put out! V: Fortunately, I've held back my big beater for last. You? F: You know it. It's now or never!
F: My...my Magmortar! V: And my Electivire! And my pride! Man, I didn't get to do anything! S-sorry, guys. Might wanna account for that...hnnnnnn...mutual weakness from now on. Okay, so that wasn't particularly just, but it was really fun. What? You know what that word means? I figured your face would crack if you ever said it out loud! Ouch. If it did, I'd still look better than you. Did...did Icarus just use a comeback?! No one is serious all the time.
V: Man, every time I meet you, I learn something. F: The same could be said of me. V: Yeah, but I forgive you. F: You suck! V: Not here. So, uh, I'm gonna run away now. Byeeeeee! Just goes to show you, no matter how old he gets, he's still Spaz.
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Post by Manic on May 13, 2019 7:32:37 GMT
Looks like Heatran's next on the chopping block. Easily the most convoluted of the remaining legendaries to find.
And Spaz goes a little too far with his immaturity. Not cool, Spaz.
What a Fire-type Elite Four member and an Electric-type gym leader do in the privacy of their home is their own business!
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Post by crimsondoom on May 13, 2019 16:41:28 GMT
C'mon, you've gotta! Let's play smear the queer! F: Little bastard... Spaz. If I ever hear you talking about the love...hnnnnnn...between two people again, dying or not, I'll smack you clear to Unova. V: Well, I'll be damned. But it's gross! You don't have to like it. You don't have to do it. You just have to not be a jerk about it. Real talk here: I first found your runs when I was part of a cult that was, among numerous other crimes, homophobic. In part, I credit this moment here for helping me question some of the cult's anti-gay tenets, which eventually led to me getting the hell out of there. Thanks for modeling an example of how to be a non-shitty human being.
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Post by truezero2 on May 13, 2019 17:21:32 GMT
Ah, it's been fun re-reading this run. This was the first one I was able to join in from the start the last time around.
I distinctly remember the thread having a nervous meltdown when they realized that you had to find and defeat five roaming Legendaries under a time limit. Then you proceeded to knock out three in a single sitting.
Although, once this one's down, we've still got a few runs left for the first saga.
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Post by Manic on May 13, 2019 23:03:36 GMT
C'mon, you've gotta! Let's play smear the queer! F: Little bastard... Spaz. If I ever hear you talking about the love...hnnnnnn...between two people again, dying or not, I'll smack you clear to Unova. V: Well, I'll be damned. But it's gross! You don't have to like it. You don't have to do it. You just have to not be a jerk about it. Real talk here: I first found your runs when I was part of a cult that was, among numerous other crimes, homophobic. In part, I credit this moment here for helping me question some of the cult's anti-gay tenets, which eventually led to me getting the hell out of there. Thanks for modeling an example of how to be a non-shitty human being. If I can accomplish something like that with my writing, then everything I've done is 100% worthwhile.
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Post by Manic on May 14, 2019 6:47:03 GMT
Update #22: Running in Circles
July 16th - Time Remaining: 51h, 26m
Offhand, I'd...hnnnnn...say train some more. I guess you're right. Wait, how come? Because the only way I faced half my challenges was...urgh... Manic? Hey, what's wrong? The only way you faced your challenges was what? T-training...augh... What's the matter? Are you all right? You just doubled over like someone had punched you in the gut! Just some...ch-chest pains. No matter. Let's get going...
Cool story, bro. Look, we need to get moving, okay? See that, Manic? You're famous! People can hardly wait to talk to you. Yay... Something tells me that he does not wish to speak more than is needed.
If you're ever in the area, pop by! I'll give you a tour. Y'know, if you're still alive. I can hardly wait. Right, so, seeya! Is anyone else getting a curious sense of deja vu? Not even a little bit. He might aptly...hnnnnn...be described as a ginger Spaz, huh? Could you speak up? As it turns out...no. Let's just move, but there's...hnnnnn...something to do first.
Hey, baby. How you...aw, hell. That bad, huh? Sugar, you look like two miles of bad road. C'mon, let ol' Roxy help you. Attaway. Manic, it has been a privilege serving you, but you will no longer require my help. I wish I could say I was surprised. Yes, you know well that my fragile nature means that I am the least suited to the tasks ahead. Should you successfully find a way to remain among the living, I will look forward to training further with you. If I succeed...hnnnn...I'll make time for you. For the time being, farewell. I will consult Franklin for what information I can glean.
How come you're still catchin' pokemon? It's...hard to explain. I believe that I understand, my dear. Then how 'bout you explain it here? I'm a little confused too. Catching pokemon has been something Manic has been doing since before his ailment, and it remains something he is still capable of doing. It provides a sense of normalcy where it is sorely lacking. So, the answer is "because he can"? I...guess it's something like that, yeah.
Besides, you're bleeding on our floor. Begone. Bleeding? Come here...urgh. What? It's true. You got a nosebleed, like someone socked you in the nose. Ha! She thinks you're a hood. This is alarming, Manic. Not only is your condition worsening, but it's worsening at an accelerating rate. We must hurry! No complaints...hnnnnnnn...here.
He's a poet, and he doesn't know it! Why are we doing this? Aren't we on a tight schedule? I have my reasons. That's good enough for me!
Heh, sorta. It's not really mine. Aw! Well, at least you get to use it! Barren as it is, I mean. Anyway, I'm heading back to training, seeya! Wait, it isn't yours? I saw you take ownership. Not exactly... Hold on, lemme see that...you signed our names! What? Says here joint ownership goes to Nero an' Roxanne! When I'm gone...hnnnnnn...you'll always have a home. Manic, I...I don't know what to say. Then don't say anything, let's just keep going. You'll just have to furnish it with what I leave you... Indeed. Were we to waste your few precious hours doing so, I suspect we would be laughed at.
Hooray. Ugh! I REALLY hope I don't have to fly in this! The hell...I got sand in places I ain't even got! Fortunately, the storm appears to be blowing in a consistent direction. Roxy, Virgil, you use me as shelter. Great. A fuckin' ground-based route. Ain't gotta tell me twice. Michael, you do what you can to take shelter with Icarus. And I'll take care of Manic. Here you are...wow, you're light these days! I've been...hnnnnnn...pumping iron. Can you tell?
I don't get it, but for shelter and place to shake off, I don't care what he says! Long story short...Cyrus was from Sunyshore. Quite correct. This is your final voyage, isn't it? Most likely, yes. Here. Take this sheet. You can use it to stop the flow of blood. It's the least I can do. Thanks, man. And...hnnnnnn...don't worry about the past. Some people are just like that.
Er, just so I'm sure...it's okay that I'm taking down our potential catches? Nero was right. He was? I'm just...hnnnnnnn...clinging to the past. I'll never even get a chance to know them. C'mon, baby. Don't talk like that. I am afraid that he has a point, my dear. Franklin did mention removing what binds him to this world. Then you think... That the goal may be for him to survive elsewhere. Yes.
Damn, this place is big! We have to hurry. We still have three other targets, we can't waste too much time in this place. Yeah, uh...don't take this the wrong way, but you've got me for about another 48 hours. Don't fret. I can see Stark Mountain from here. What's the worst that could happen? Oh, you didn't...
He did. I ain't mad atcha. You're not? Well, I admit, that is a relief. I was- I'm just real disappointed. I can't believe you did that. Er, I was distracted?
...but you look like hell! Heh, same ol'...hnnnn...Crasher Wake. Si! And I am told that you defeated that puta Cynthia! Sure did. Honor's back on the table. Honor is always on the table, my friend! It is the way of the luchador!
Do you hear? Never. Not for even one moment. Not for one fraction of one moment. At no time, under no circumstances, in any way, shape or form, by any profound leap of faith or logic, did I ever accept in even the smallest way that you might be accepted as my apprentice! Not today, not tomorrow, not any day! No day, no night, no week or month or year! Do you understand?
You can't be...hnnnnn...serious. That's madness. There's simply no way. He's jokin'. He's just gotta be! Are you sure? Remember, Spaz was here when we arrived. You're saying you think it might work? Si. Think about it. If I can make a luchador out of this nino, then I must truly have mastered the way! In a weird sort of way, that actually makes sense.
You will meet me in Pastoria, 'apprentice', and we will see whether or not you are worthy of the title! Unbelievable. WOO-HOO! I knew all I had to do was insist like I was deaf! El Guacamole rides again! Wait up, I'm coming! Spaz used Nag. Yeah, yeah. It's super annoying. C'mon, let's get on with it.
Are you FU*coughHACKwheeeeeze*CKING kidding me?! The head has been removed, but the body still flails about. Not for long. Let's get in there and end this. Can't believe those damn knuckleheads are still doin' stuff! Yeah, uh, who are these guys? Oh yeah, we beat Cyrus before we...hnnnnnnnn...met you. Team Galactic was - is, I suppose - a criminal organization. Their leader is stranded in the Distortion World, but apparently, they have not ceased their activity. Maybe it's just a few wannabes who found outfits? You know, ordinary crooks?
Nope. Same crap haircuts, same vacant looks, same outfits... Same doomed fate.
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